COLLECTIVE MADNESS Soft despotism is a term coined by Alexis de Tocqueville describing the state into which a country overrun by "a network of small complicated rules" might degrade. Soft despotism is different from despotism (also called 'hard despotism') in the sense that it is not obvious to the people." RCAKane Brown not only has the biggest country album and song in America this week, hes breaking records as well. For the first time in history, Kane becomes the first artist to top all five Billboard country charts at the same time. His duet with Lauren Alaina, What Ifs, is #1 on the Country Airplay, Hot Country Songs, Country Streaming Songs and Country Digital Songs rankings. The Deluxe edition of his self-titled debut album is #1 on Billboards Top Country Albums tally as well. On top of that, Kane Brown Deluxe arrives at #5 on the all-genre Billboard 200 ranking. While he's currently on Jason Aldean's They Don't Know Tour with Chris Young, he'll continue with Chris after the first of the year on Chris' own Losing Sleep World Tour. Copyright 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. - Many parents in Rivers state have started picking their children from schools because it was alleged that army wanted to inject the kids with the monkeypox virus - A member of Governor Nyesom Wikes cabinet of the state, Oraye Franklin allegedly wrote that the military should forget its charity/ humanitarian work in south - Franklin maintained that If they wish to win the confidence and support of the public, they must begin by changing the character of their narrative Rivers state has reportedly been thrown into confusion with parents withdrawing their children from their various school over fresh Nigerian army vaccination. Legit.ng gathered this through a phone call from one of the parents on Tuesday, October 17, who alleged that army wanted to forcefully inject the kids with the pox virus. A member of Governor Nyesom Wikes cabinet, Oraye Franklin, however, wrote that the military should please forget its charity/ humanitarian work in the south. Pupils are fleeing to their various homes over fresh army vaccination in Rivers state. Photo credit: Anthony D. Penman READ ALSO: DSS prevents journalists from entering courtroom as Kanus trial commences Franklin wrote: ''The military should please forget its charity/ humanitarian work in Southern Nigeria. From reports, they are clearly not welcome. Panic in Rivers as parents withdraw kids from schools over fresh army vaccination. Photo credit: Anthony D. Penman PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app ''If they wish to win the confidence and support of the publics, they must begin by changing the character of their narrative.'' Pupils fleeing to their various houses over fresh army vaccination in Rivers state. Photo credit: Anthony D. Penman Meanwhile, Ojo Adenegan, the assistant director of information, 32 Artillery Brigade Ondo state, said there is no truth to the rumour making the rounds that soldiers are administering immunization to school kids. In a telephone chat with Adaba FM, Adenegan described the allegation as a devilish lie fabricated by mischief-makers who want to pitch the people against the military. He urged parents and guardians in the state to please return their kids to school as the lie is unfounded. It was learned that Femi Joseph, the state police public relations officer, the command said police have begun an investigation into the rumours that its officers are administering immunization to school children across the state. Joseph who stated this in a telephone chat with Adaba FM described the reports as fabricated to create fear in the minds of residents of the state. He called for calm urging school children to carry on with their studies and assured that they will close upon persons who concocted the rumours. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that Isaac Adewole, the minister of health, on Monday, October 13, confirmed three cases of the virus from the 13 suspected cases reported from Bayelsa state in September. This confirmation came after the health ministry sent samples to the World Health Organisation. Check out FOUR IMPORTANT ways to avoid contracting Typhoid fever - on Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit.ng - A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja orders Senator Abaribe to give reasons why Nnamdi Kanu failed to appear in court - Justice Binta Nyako gives Abaribe and two others options of producing Kanu or forfeiting their bail bonds of N100 million each A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the senator representing Abia South, Enyinnaya Abaribe, to produce Nnamdi Kanu or forfeit his bail bond of N100 million which he paid to the court in respect of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). READ ALSO: DSS prevents journalists from entering courtroom as Kanus trial commences The court gave the ruling on Tuesday, October 17, after Senator Abaribe applied to the court to discharge him from the suretyship, bond and recognizance of the bail of Kanu. Justice Binta Nyako ordered the senator to appear before the court to give reasons why the IPOB leader failed to appear for his trial. Nyako also gave Abaribe and the two others three options of producing Kanu, forfeiting their bail bonds of N100 million each or asking for more time to produce the first defendant. She said Abaribe can only be discharged from his suretyship only and when the first defendant - Kanu - is made available for his trial or forfeit his N100 million bail bond. Legit.ng had earlier reported that Nnamdi Kanu was absent in court as hearings on his trial commenced. Kanu who was expected to appear before Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court was no where in sight. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app Raising the issue, the director of public prosecution, S. M Labaran said the state fears that the trial might not go on as planned. Labaran said the first defendant who was granted bail on August 25, on the grounds of medical challenge was not present in court. Below are some photos taken by Legit.ng photo journalist, Sodiq Adelakun, at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, October 17. Nnamdi Kanu is absent as court begins hearing on his case on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - President Muhammadu Buhari expressed worry over inability of some states to pay salaries - He wondered how they expect workers to feed and take care of their families - The president charged governors to take payment of salaries serious President Muhammadu Buhari expressed concern on the growing complaints and agitations by workers in states over unpaid salaries and allowances in spite of interventions by the federal government. NAN reports that the president made his feelings known on Tuesday, October 17, when he received a group of governors led by the chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, AbdulAziz Yari, at the State House, Abuja. The federal government had on May 4, released details of the second tranche of Paris Club refund to states totalling N243.795 billion. READ ALSO: President Buhari signs bill establishing university of petroleum President Buhari said the plight of workers in the states needed urgent attention. Photo credit: Twitter Bashir Ahmad A breakdown of the payment showed that Abia got N5.72bn; Adamawa, N6.11bn; Akwa Ibom, N10bn; Anambra, N6.12bn; Bauchi, N6.88bn; Bayelsa, N10bn; Benue, N6.85bn; and Borno N7.34bn. Cross River got N6.08bn, Delta, N10bn; Ebonyi, N4.51bn; Edo, N6.09 billion; Ekiti, N4.77bn; Enugu, N5.36bn; Gombe, N4.47bn; Imo, N7bn; Jigawa, N7.11bn; and Kaduna, N7.72bn. Kano got N10bn, Katsina, N8.2bn; Kebbi, N5.98bn; Kogi, N6.03bn; Kwara, N5.12bn; Lagos, N8.37bn; Nasarawa, N4.55bn; Niger, N7.2bn; and Ogun, N5.7bn. The others were Ondo, N7bn; Osun, N6.3bn; Oyo, N7.9bn; Plateau, N5.64bn; Rivers, N10bn; Sokoto, N6.44bn; Taraba, N5.61bn; Yobe, N5.41bn; Zamfara, N5.44bn; and the Federal Capital Territory, N684m. The refund is in respect of over-deductions on Paris Club, London Club Loans and Multilateral debts between 1995 and 2002. However, President Buhari said the plight of workers in the states needed urgent attention as many could barely survive. How can anyone go to bed and sleep soundly when workers have not been paid their salaries for months. I actually wonder how the workers feed their families, pay their rents and even pay school fees for their children," he said. The president told the governors that two out of the three-pronged focus of the ruling All Progressives Congress to secure the country and fight corruption had received some commendable reviews by the people. He further noted that the challenge in payment of salaries in states had taken a toll on the people. President Buhari said the federal government and state executives would need to work closely together to ameliorate the situation of workers across the country. He added: God has been merciful in hearing the prayers of his servants so the rainy season has been good, you can ask the Kebbi State Governor on this, and our enormous food importation bill has gone down." The president said he had instructed all government agencies to comply with the Treasury Single Account in order to ensure more transparency and prudence in accounting for the revenues of the government and the sharing of entitlements with states. In his remark, the chairman of the Governors Forum said the various interventions by the federal government, which included the bailouts, were judiciously utilized by the states. He stressed that the governors inherited backlog of unpaid salaries and huge debts portfolios on assumption of office. We are concerned with the situation in our states, and we are trying our best to manage the resources," he said. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app Yari noted that the bailout funds and part of the fallout from the London-Paris Club that had been received by the states, were properly expended to alleviate the plight of workers, but more had to be done. The NGF chairman also commended the efforts of the president in improving the economy. He assured that the states would continue working with the federal government to improve the livelihood of workers and all Nigerians. Governors of Ondo, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kwara, Akwa Ibom and the deputy governor of Ebonyi state among those who visited the president. Legit.ng had reported that the president met with a delegation of the Nigeria Governors' Forum in Abuja. Daily Trust reports that the delegation, led by the forum's chairman, Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara state, comprises the governors of Kebbi, Bauchi, Kwara, Ondo, Jigawa and Ebonyi. Are Nigerians truly tired of President Buhari? - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - The police in Kwara state have been accused by residents of selling detainees to ritualists - In reaction, the commissioner of police insisted that the allegations were false, unfounded and untrue - According to him, the redeployment of some officers had nothing to do with the allegations raised by residents Lawan Ado who is the commissioner of police in Kwara state has announced the redeployment of some officers at the Adewole Police Division in Ilorin, the state capital. According to report, the decision followed allegation raised by residents that the police were selling suspects detained in the stations to ritualists for N80,000. READ ALSO: Justice Nyako threatens to withdraw from Nnamdi Kanu's case The police chief said this during a visit of the district governor, Rotary International, District 9125, Mbanefo Nnoka, and his team to the command headquarters. He insisted that the allegations were false, unfounded and untrue but that he decided to redeploy them to avoid needless rift. He said no one has come forward with evidence to indict the policemen on the allegation of human trafficking. He said: But we have been redeploying the policemen there. More than half of them have now been transferred and soon, the other half will be redeployed so that even if there is anybody who is involved which no information has established we will at least remove him from the area. Nnoka called on Nigerians to support the fight against crime as the police was everyones friend. Legit.ng had reported that suspected ritualists arrested by the police in Ogun state confessed to trading and using human body parts for money ritual. Ahmed Iliyasu who is the commissioner of police in the state paraded the suspects while allaying the fears of residents. He said the suspects were arrested by the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad. He said the first syndicate comprised of two suspects, Lateef Aremu and Kola Sodipo and that they were arrested after they got information about them. Legit.ng visits kidnappers' den in Lagos - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng By Lambert Strether of Corrente. Trade Canadian firm could dodge 300 percent tariff by building jets in Alabama [WaPo]. Canadian jet-maker Bombardier announced Monday that it is selling a controlling stake in its 100- to 150-seat C-series jetliner to European manufacturer Airbus, just weeks after the Commerce Department moved to impose 300 percent tariffs on the plane. The companies also said they will expand the planes production to a new facility in Mobile, Ala., a move that could help it avoid the import duty. As Theresa May and the DUP heave huge sighs of relief. At a private lunch following a rare public speech at the Center for Strategic and International Studies on Sept. 18, Lighthizer told a group of about 25 people that he believed the size of the U.S. market was still the driving force for getting countries to meet U.S. demands, according to sources familiar with the meeting. And despite a global movement toward rules-based, regional trade deals, he said bilateral agreements are where the U.S. can better exert its leverage. As for rules, Lighthizer said they are generally weak and not easily enforced. In sum, they dont matter, he said [Politico]. One sources takeaway from the meeting: I think hes a true believer in this stuff. Canada and the United States are headed further down a collision course over dairy after Washington offered a proposal on Sunday calling for 10 times more access to Canadas dairy market than what had been agreed upon under the Trans-Pacific Partnership [Politico]. The early read so far is that the end of Nafta wouldnt necessarily be catastrophic, but would hurt the overall economy, cause a big squeeze to some sectors and states and could dent stocks. One firm estimates that although some factory work would move north from Mexico, the U.S. still would lose a net 256,000 jobs over three to five years. Among the losers: auto, food, and apparel makers that have crafted efficient supply chains around duty-free passage of parts and goods across borders [Wall Street Journal]. Politics 2016 Post Mortem FBI uncovered Russian bribery plot before Obama administration approved controversial nuclear deal with Moscow [ The Hill ]. Before the Obama administration approved a controversial deal in 2010 giving Moscow control of a large swath of American uranium, the FBI had gathered substantial evidence that Russian nuclear industry officials were engaged in bribery, kickbacks, extortion and money laundering designed to grow Vladimir Putins atomic energy business inside the United States, according to government documents and interviews. They also obtained an eyewitness account backed by documents indicating Russian nuclear officials had routed millions of dollars to the U.S. designed to benefit former President Bill Clintons charitable foundation during the time Secretary of State Hillary Clinton served on a government body that provided a favorable decision to Moscow, sources told The Hill. 2020 2018 Bannon on GOP insurgency: Nobody can run and hide' [ AP ]. President Donald Trumps former chief strategist is promoting a field of potential primary challengers to take on disfavored Republicans in Congress and step up for open seats. Among the outsiders: a convicted felon, a perennial candidate linked to an environmental conspiracy theory and a Southern lawmaker known for provocative ethnic and racial comments. The 3 most serious downgrades are all from lean Republican to Toss Up. [The Cook Political Report] is so conservative in their prognosticating that lean Republican usually means the Democrat will win unless the DCCC screws up royally by winning the nomination for a fake Democrat and turning off grassroots voters, something they do very frequently [ Down with Tyranny ]. So Cook is right, but for the wrong reasons? Trump Transition SEC Asked to Probe Trades of Student Loan Firm Navient [ Bloomberg ]. The [AFL-CIO] on Tuesday urged the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to examine the trading in Navients common stock on Aug. 31. The trades occurred before public disclosure of a letter from the Department of Education to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau marking a critical shift in Trump administration policy.' Health Care The Fight For Single-Payer Health Care Intensifies In California [ International Business Times ]. This is really just a wrap-up of single payer efforts in California, though useful. New Cold War Twitter provided Senate investigators the names of 201 Russia-linked accounts [The Verge]. ZOMG!!!! Stop the presses!!!!! 201 accounts!!!!!!!! Realignment and Legitimacy As a political analyst, I have trouble understanding how a substantial number of counties and communities could vote twice for Barack Obama and then flip to Donald Trump [Cook Political Report]. No comment. Well, one comment: Change versus more of the same in 2008 and 2017. Soros shifts $18 billion to his Open Society philanthropic organization [MarketWatch]. Soros doesnt plan to trade the billions that now belong to Open Society, according to the people familiar with the situation. Soros was trading his own money, held separately within the Soros firm, as recently as last year, when he bet wrongly, it has turned out that stocks would slump after Donald Trump was elected president. Womens March reacts to beatdown by Clintonite enforcers: We are sorry we caused hurt and confusion for so many of you this week. #WomensConvention 1/ Women's March (@womensmarch) October 14, 2017 Here is an example of the hurt and confusion: this anti-Woman's March/Convention onslaught is a transparent attempt to kneecap a women's movement outside of Democratic party control pic.twitter.com/A5275IgAr9 woke hoover (@vs_cointelpro) October 16, 2017 (Masterful use of passive-aggression; Neeras problem is that the women who organized the Womens March conference invited Bernie Sanders to speak, after [genuflects] Hillary Clinton, Elizabeth Warren, and Kamala Harris all turned them down. #MeToo: Social media flooded with personal stories of assault [CNN]. On Sunday actress Alyssa Milano tweeted a note that read Suggested by a friend: If all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted wrote Me too as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem. For example: #MeToo https://t.co/VWssdltU3n Monica Lewinsky (@MonicaLewinsky) October 16, 2017 Idea: Liberal Democrats clean their own side of the street on this issue? Its time for Democrats to stop being such gormless chumps [The Week]. Rather, its time for the donor class to stop paying Democrats to lose. Stats Watch Readers, this will be a bit of a pantry clearout, especially on The Bezzle, after my dereliction of duty yesterday. lambert Industrial Production, September 2017: The factory sector isnt showing much life based on the Federal Reserves industrial production report where the manufacturing component managed only a 0.1 percent increase in September which is 3 tenths below Econodays consensus and only the 2nd gain in 5 months [Econoday]. But there are not a lot highlights in todays report as the weakness in manufacturing, given this years enormous strength in private reports like Empire State and ISM, remains an unfortunate surprise. And: There was significant downward revision to the existing data over the last 6 months so even though the data was better than last month, overall the improvement was very little. The best way to view this is the 3 month rolling averages which declined [Econintersect]. And but: Capacity utilization at 76.0% is 3.9% below the average from 1972 to 2015 and below the pre-recession level of 80.8% in December 2007 [Calculated Risk]. Empire State Manufacturing Survey, October 2017 (yesterday): Empire States sample continues to report exceptionally strong activity [Econoday]. Its important to remember that diffusion indexes offer only rough assessments of activity and in Empire State and Philly Fed are based on relatively small samples where responses are always voluntary. And the rare strength of these samples has yet to be matched by the governments factory data. Import and Export Prices, September 2017: Oil skewed cross-border prices sharply higher at the headline level in September, up 0.7 percent for imports, which is 2 tenths above Econodays consensus, and up 0.8 percent for exports which is double the expected gain [Econoday]. Pressure on the export side is centered in industrial supplies which rose 3.0 percent in September following Augusts 1.8 percent gain in a component where petroleum inputs play a significant part. This gain offset a sizable 0.7 percent decline in agricultural exports. And: The elephant in this months changes were fuel / oil commodities [Econintersect]. Housing Market Index, October 2017: Optimism among home builders, which has been easing slightly from very strong levels, bounced back strongly in Octobe [Econoday]. Sales of new homes were very strong at the outset of the year but have faded since though housing permits have been coming alive in recent months. This report, much like other measurements of economic confidence, has been very solid this year and is pointing to a possible year-end uplift for new housing. And: This was above the consensus forecast, and a strong reading [Calculated Risk]. Real Estate: Leasing rates for warehouses in the U.S. have never been higher, and the countrys biggest markets are driving the price increases. Asking rents for industrial space in New Jersey soared 11.8% in the third quarter and rates in Northern California also rose at a double-digit pace [Wall Street Journal]. Commodities: Copper price soars to highest since February 2014 [Mining.com]. Copper futures trading in New York surged on Monday on renewed optimism about the strength of the Chinese economy going into a crucial policy-setting meeting of the countrys leaders. Commodities: Craft beer pours $2 billion into Michigan economy [Michigan Business]. Commodities: Milk is a low-margin commodity subject to big price swings, but its a staple of grocery sales and big chains see important value in controlling the flow. Thats upending traditional suppliers, including dairy processors and farmer-owned plants that have been coping with a dairy glut and milk prices that have fallen by a third since 2014. Some cooperatives with cash are adding plants to get closer to customers and cut transport times. But the huge new retailer-owned plants may speed up consolidation in the dairy industry, squeezing out cooperative-owned facilities [Wall Street Journal]. Shipping: Police on Monday sought an arrest warrant for Hanjin Group Chairman and Korean Air CEO Cho Yang-ho, who stands accused of embezzling funds to renovate his private home. [Korea Herald]. Chos daughter was a piece of work, too Retail: Amazon.com Inc said it would hire 120,000 workers in the United States this holiday season, same as last year, as the online behemoth prepares for the holiday shopping frenzy [Business Insider]. Overall, U.S. retailers are expected to hire 25,000 fewer workers this holiday season, the NRF said, as current staffing levels are strong, and as companies such as Wal-Mart offer existing workers more hours rather than adding temp workers. Retail: Users can now order food for delivery without ever leaving Facebook [CNBC]. The company announced Friday that it has partnered with Delivery.com, DoorDash, ChowNow, Zuppler, EatStreet, Slice and Olo to offer users the ability to order meals without having to open each of those individual applications. Facebook also teamed up with restaurant chains like Papa Johns, Five Guys and Panera, the company said. I hate this because its good for chains and bad for small local restaurants. Heaven forfend that we Facebook should just make an API available to them. No, no, theyve got to partner to suck even more money out of my local economy ETFs: Three rules will make exchange-traded funds more accessible to new types of investors. In the U.S., the fiduciary duty and new insurance guidelines will enable retirement savers and insurers to raise their exposure to ETFs. In Europe, the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II is expected to increase flows from retail investors [Bloomberg]. Venture Capital: SoftBank was behind four of the five biggest venture capital deals last quarter [Recode]. In general, venture capitalists are spending more money on fewer deals, as companies stay private longer and need more late-stage funding. Tech: Facebook Is Looking for Employees With National Security Clearances [Bloomberg]. Facebook Inc. is looking to hire people who have national security clearances, a move the company thinks is necessary to prevent foreign powers from manipulating future elections through its social network, according to a person familiar with the matter. Uh huh. Tech: Several times in conversations with people in Hollywood, I heard the tech people referred to as dumb money the sort of outsiders (in the past, they came from oil, then from finance) who parade through town looking to call the shots. One Hollywood executive who has worked often with tech companies told me: I wouldnt say weve looked at them with fear, no' [New York Times]. Tech: iPhone X makers still struggling to refine facial recognition [Nikkei Asian Review]. A tech executive familiar with iPhone X production told Nikkei Asian Review on Thursday that manufacturers are still struggling to perfect 3-D sensors and in particular dot projectors in Apple premium handsets TrueDepth camera system, though the person could not pinpoint exactly the problem. Public Relations: Macej Ceglowski, leader of a national grassroots tech activism group called Tech Solidarity that sprung up after Trumps election, said tech companies arent helping displaced disaster victims as much as theyd like to think. Puerto Rico is an example of the government failing its citizens, who have no federal representation, he told BuzzFeed News. These tech companies have enormous lobbying clout, but choose instead to promote their own science projects in a moment of crisis' [Buzzfeed]. The Bezzle: This Steak-Sharing Startup Targets Foodies Looking for High-End Beef [Bloomberg]. Crowd Cow expects to post revenue of at least $7 million this year. The initial fundraising round brought in $2 million. Investors included Fuel Capital, Zulily Inc. founders Mark Vadon and Darrell Cavens, and ex-NFL star Joe Montana, who has a venture fund. The Bezzle: Walmart Wants Keys to Your House So It Can Put Groceries Directly in the Fridge [Grub Street]. Walmart explains in a blog post how the process works: Delivery people get a one-time passcode that opens a smart lock that shoppers must install first. (The whole service is essentially built around that lock its actually a partnership with August Home, a smart-lock start-up.) When the driver gets to the door, you get a phone notification that your delivery is occurring. You can watch from an app in real-time if you like. This person will drop off packages in the foyer, then put away all the groceries in the kitchen. See, theres your problem. Alexa could just open the damn door on its own. The Bezzle: Uber, Lyft reduce transit use, increase vehicle miles, report says [San Francisco Chronicle] (original). Although we found that ride-hailing can be complementary to transit and reduce vehicle ownership for a small portion of individuals, we found that (overall) these services currently facilitate a shift away from more sustainable modes towards low occupancy vehicles in major cities, said Regina Clewlow, lead author of the [UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies] report, in a statement. The Bezzle: How Waymo is designing the self-driving car passenger experience to feel convenient and safe [Recode]. The car will find a way to come to a safe stop if it detects unsafe driving conditions. In the rare occurrence of an accident, the car will also communicate instructions using audio and visual cues. Oh. The Bezzle: Airbnb teams up with developer to launch branded apartments [Financial Times]. Silicon Valley just innovated the long-stay hotel. The Bezzle: Wag, the Uber for Dog-Walking, Is Drawing Uber-Like Scrutiny [Bloomberg]. Despite the high commission, Wag is burning about $4 million a month, said three people who recently reviewed the startups financials. The older, more established Rover, said its also losing money but expects to become profitable next year. Both Wag and Rover, which are privately held, declined to provide specifics of their financials. Wags expenses are especially high because the startup relies on celebrity endorsements and costly marketing campaigns. Despite the red ink, venture capitalists have poured more than $200 million into Wag and Rover combined. Mr. Market: Everything Is Crazy and the Markets Arent Freaking Out [Bloomberg]. [F]or Credit Suisses [Mark] Connors, the shift in market psychology can be traced back to a different signal event: Brexit. After the U.K. voted to leave the European Union in June 2016, $2.6 trillion was wiped off the value of equities worldwide in just three days. Many were calling it one of the most dramatic and shocking turns of events in modern British history. Among investors, the panic was palpable, and some were paralyzed with fear. But almost as quickly, the markets roared back and jolted investors out of their crisis-era fatalism. Since then, naysayers selling into any weakness have looked like suckers. In the aftermath of other post-crisis upheavals, we got a lot of incoming client calls, Connors said. But that all ended with Brexit. Now, even though the events seem dire, volume is low and and reversals are sharp. People are looking through to things that keep them long. Buy-the-dip is in place.' With handy chart of buy the dip mentions. Five Horsemen: AMZN and GOOGL shares are over a thousand dollars apiece, as Facebook careens off the top of our chart. Life is good [Hat tip, Jim Hyagood]. Rapture Index (yesterday): Closes up 1 on Drought. The lack of rain has caused the Mississippi River levels to decline [Rapture Ready]. Record High, October 10, 2016: 189. Current: 185. Todays Fear & Greed Index: 78 Extreme Greed (previous close: 78, Extreme Greed) [CNN]. One week ago: 85 (Extreme Greed). (0 is Extreme Fear; 100 is Extreme Greed. Last updated Oct 17 at 12:30pm. Police State Watch Orlando man arrested when cop mistakes doughnut glaze for meth, gets $37,500 settlement [WFTV]. Cops confused about donuts? How does that work? Chicago incentivizes abusive policing through overtime policy [The Chicago Reporter]. End-of-shift arrests mean overtime. Gaia FERCs approval of Mountain Valley Pipeline stirs defiance, determination [Roanoke Times]. Lawsuit Aims To Recognize Colorado River As A Person [KJZZ]. Black Injustice Tipping Point Nonviolent, cross-racial coalitions are the only way back to a decent America [Todd Gitlin, The American Prospect]. And: [#BlackLivesMatter] is the third term in a syllogism that goes like this: 1. All lives matter. 2. Black lives are lives. 3. Black lives matter. Class Warfare Employees who follow a strict automated protocolsome call them meat robotsneed little training. Even the drill was attached to a computer-assisted arm; the worker just had to move it to the right position and let the machine do its magic. A decade ago, industrial robots assisted workers in their tasks. Now workersthose who remainassist the robots in theirs [The New Yorker]. For decades, the conventional view among economists was that technological advances create as many opportunities for workers as they take away. In the past several years, however, research has begun to suggest otherwise. AN EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM FOR REDUCING THE WORKWEEK IN THE USSR (PDF) [The Central Intelligence Agency]. The Benefits of Forced Experimentation: Striking Evidence from the London Underground Network* [The Quarterly Journal of Economics]. From the abstract: We show that a strike on the Underground, which forced many commuters to experiment with new routes, brought lasting changes in behavior. This effect is stronger for commuters who live in areas where the Underground map is more distorted, which points to the importance of informational imperfections. Information resulting from the strike improved network efficiency. Search costs alone are unlikely to explain the suboptimal behavior. Miners are dying: The human cost of WAs FIFO economy [Mining.com]. WA: Western Australia. FIFO: Fly-In, Fly-out. Having worked in the industry for over 10 years on West Australian sites, he said the stress from his job, his workmates and his family had him lose his hair in clumps at one stage.. The impact of FIFO work practices on mental health report made 42 key findings and 30 recommendations regarding depression, workplace bullying, alcohol, harassment and suicide. I wonder if the same issues apply to workers in the fracking boom. News of the Wired You have almost certainly been hacked [The Week]. So much information has been stolen by hackers that virtually everyone in the U.S. has been affected by a data breach in some way even those who never go online. Google Bombs Are Our New Normal [Wired]. Right after George W. Bush was re-elected in 2004 and claimed a mandate (I have political capital, and I intend to spend it) I actually, personally, Google-bombed Bush mandate to Mandate Magazine; the cover boy was, IIRC, wearing a sailors hat. I did it because I thought it would drive Republicans crazy, but its also exactly the kind of thing I wouldnt do today. Want to see something crazy? Open this link on your phone with WiFi turned off [Medium]. I only have a dumb phone (and a landline) so this story doesnt apply to me. But readers may wish to test. The New York Times released new staff social media guidelines, so phew, thankfully thats settled [Nieman Lab]. The bias against Sanders by Times reporters was pretty staggering. Its probably best that its out in the open, instead of being driven underground. An Oxford philosophers moral crisis can help us learn to question our instincts [Quartz]. Why bother with moral philosophy when common sense serves most of us perfectly well? The simple answer is that, as history shows, commonsensical beliefs are very often wrong. Slavery, marital rape, and bans on interracial marriage were all widely accepted in the relatively recent past. Photo Essay: A sequence of delights and ruptures' [Scalawag]. Each photograph is driven by the landscape and a deep sense of place. Geographically, Panola County sits mostly in the red clay hills of Mississippi, with its large forests of pine timber, rolling hills lathered with kudzu vines, lakes, gravel and clay pits for digging. Our obsession with mindfulness is based on limited scientific evidence [Quartz]. So squillionaire Paul Tudor Jones got conned. * * * Readers, feel free to contact me at lambert [UNDERSCORE] strether [DOT] corrente [AT] yahoo [DOT] com, with (a) links, and even better (b) sources I should curate regularly, (c) how to send me a check if you are allergic to PayPal, and (d) to find out how to send me images of plants. Vegetables are fine! Fungi are deemed to be honorary plants! If you want your handle to appear as a credit, please put it in the subject line. Otherwise, I will anonymize by using your initials. See the previous Water Cooler (with plant) here. Todays plant (JB): JB, who danced my Snoopy happy-dance today: Oaks are funny trees. They can withstand abuse from a hurricane and bounce back, or just die. This is why I was saddened following the damage Hurricane Irma unleashed on the many oaks that border my property. I was mourning one I feared wed loose because it was virtually denuded but astonishingly, its had an overnight transformation that has left my jaw hanging as it sprouted bright green new growth, as if it were late February instead of early October. None of the other oaks was as severely damaged and this one so no others are putting on new growth. After writing about trees in both Puerto Rico and California, Im starting to think they really do run the world * * * Readers: The Naked Capitalism fundraiser is over, and let me express my personal thanks to all those who have helped keep Naked Capitalism getting better and better. Water Cooler, however, is a standalone entity not covered by the NC fundraiser. So do feel free to use the dropdown and click the hat to make a contribution today or any day. Here is why: Regular positive feedback both makes me feel good and lets me know Im on the right track with coverage. When I get no donations for five or ten days I get worried. More tangibly, a constant trickle of small donations helps me with expenses, and I factor that trickle in when setting fundraising goals. So if you see something you especially appreciate, do feel free to click the hat! Yves here. Lambert and I for the last week or so have both noticed how odd the news flow is. At least in the US, the grist for commentary has gotten very thin. Its as if this were late August, not October. Big and brilliant: complex whale behaviour tied to brain size Reuters (David L) Burrowing Owl Surfaces After the Fire Medium (dcblogger) Man saves disabled roommate from fire KTVU. EM Very smart in his unusual choice of safe place He saved the disabled woman from whom he was caregiver and her cat, but lost his dog. :(. Moi: I hope the media coverage leads them to get some donations. ESO Telescopes Observe First Light from Gravitational Wave Source ESO. UserFriendly: More than just a press release. Ophelia became a major hurricane where no storm had before ars technica This is what Americas eco city of the future looks like Guardian (resilc) Long-Term Marijuana Use Changes Brain at the Cellular Level, Say Scientists Inverse News (David L) Malta car bomb kills Panama Papers journalist Guardian (Adrien) Car bomb kills journalist behind Panama Papers offshore tax evasion investigation days after she received threats to her safety Mirror Online (Brian C) Daphne Caruana Galizia Politico (Richard Smith) Caruana Galizia son hits out strongly after his mothers murder, describes the scene Times of Malta (Richard Smith) Her last tweet: That crook Schembri was in court today, pleading that he is not a crook https://t.co/46pV1mXEw9 Daphne's blog (@dcgblog) October 16, 2017 Experts at US hearing warn N. Korea EMP attack could kill 90% of Americans in year Asia Times. Resilc: And I could win Powerball. Rajoy gives Catalonia last chance to come clean on independence Politico Why Austrias Election Should Worry Liberals New York Magazine. Reslic: 1. Do not create more refugees 2. See number 1 One in three Greeks live in poverty or social exclusion, Eurostat shows Defend Democracy Brexit Brussels trip by PM fails to unblock stalemate as both sides harden stance Guardian. Here we see yet another repeat of Greece, which I think can be generalized into a Rule of Negotiations: If two sides do not have an overlap in their bargaining position, more interaction makes their interpersonal relations worse. Brexiteers fear Swiss Trap trade deal Politico. Lambert ran this link yesterday, but I wanted to make an observation or two. The fact that the Brexit boosters are even having this conversation reflects their continuing refusal to accept basics. Im simplifying but not by much: he EU has said over and over and over again that if the UK is going to have to have access to the Single Market, it has to accept all sorts of things it does not like, which EU leaders have enumerated. If you are going to have seamless trade with the EU, you have to accept EU rules. Harmonization does not happen on a real-time basis. So you have to accept EU law, and that includes the jurisdiction of EU courts on relevant matters. This is not hard to understand, save the UK wants not just a pony but a herd of ponies, a stable, and staff too. Read the entire tweetstorn: 1. Thread on the state of Brexit The main reasons that I once thought Article 50 would never be notified were the very problems UK now has. Law and policy (@davidallengreen) October 16, 2017 Accelerate the word the Tories need BBC. Ouch! Its a folly to dismiss City warnings over Brexit transition deal delay Guardian. Note that transition deal delay assumes there is a transition deal to be had. Corbyn: Hammond right to say Labour threatens whole economic system Guardian (Charlie) Syraqistan Big Brother is Watching You Watch Imperial Collapse Watch 108 U.S F-35s Wont Be Combat-Capable War Is Boring. JTM: A giant F YOU to us mopes. How stupid do they think we are? Concurrency orphans, indeed. Well, the canopy on the 30-year-old F-16 up on the pedestal at a local park is yellowing from the Florida sun an unconcurrent F-35 would shore look swell up thar, give us peasants a view of what America stands for Trump Transition Judge refuses to dismiss corruption charges against Dem senator The Hill GOP candidate claims her lifelong conversations with UFO aliens have revealed ancient secrets Raw Story (furzy). Let us not forget that John Podesta is also big on UFOs. Hillary Channels Nora Desmond California Burning Disclosure Framework Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Income Taxes (File Reference No. 2016-270) FASB. Letter to the Senate. Quite the shot across the bow. But it may be intended to help lobbying against the Big Bad Eu, which in fact is na ga be moved by things like this. When It Comes to Trade, the NYT is Far More Confused Than Iowa Voters Dean Baker (Livuis Dursus) SoftBanks giant investment in Uber will be finalized very likely in the next week Business Insider. I dont discount the possibility that a deal might get done, but Ive never seen a remark like this apropos an investment under negotiation this long: We are waiting at the moment on what is going to transpire with the price, Huffington said Monday. Its all about the price.' HUH? This is letter of intent stage stuff. Theyve been at this for four months and still dont know if they are on the same page as regards the most important term? Taylor Impresses Trump for Fed Chairman, Warsh Slips Bloomberg. The Taylor rule has been discredited but that wont stop him from pushing him model on the Fed Class Warfare Antidote du jour. Tracie H: Say Don, when did you get those cool Halloween costumes for the cats? See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. . Forgive me for being briefer than I would like but a major wrench got thrown in my schedule. It wasnt a hard call to say that Theresa Mays emergency visit to try to get the EU to give the UK a Brexit break was certain to fail. The EU had signaled for over a month that the UK had not made enough progress in the talks thus far for them to agree to let the negotiations move to the next phase, of considering the future relationship, meaning above all, trade However, depending on which press account you believe, the meetings may have achieved the difficult task of making things worse. One of my theories of negotiation is that if two sides have no overlap in their bargaining positions, more interaction does nothing except make their interpersonal relations worse. It appear at most that Mays and David Davis personal lobbying at best made even clearer where the points of disagreement lie. One critical clarification came via the Guardian: the EU member states are more united against the UK on the stumbling block issues, most important, to pretty much finish the first phase negotiations, including reaching a general understanding on the so-called Brexit bill, before moving to new topics. We took note of the accommodating position taken by the EUs chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, and speculated that he was both representing a deal as well as representing his principals, which in the end entails trying to get your side to make concessions. That was if anything an understatement. Barnier is seen by some EU leaders as going beyond his remit . From the Guardian: Calls to the French president, Emmanuel Macron, and the Irish taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, along with a 90-minute dinner in Brussels with the European commission president, Jean-Claude Juncker, and his chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, failed to move the dial in the prime ministers favour, with senior diplomats insisting the UK had not done enough. A joint statement from Juncker and the prime minister following their dinner gave no indication of any movement in the British governments favour, but instead included reference to the sequenced approach to the talks insisted upon by Brussels European leaders had overruled Barnier when he suggested opening talks on a transition phase, the source added, and member states were in no mood to offer May any succour. The problem is not in the commission so you will not find the solution in the commission, the source said. He added that Barnier had overstepped the mark in the eyes of some member states by suggesting some weeks ago that talks over a transition period could be doable following the Florence speech, giving Britain false hope over what was feasible. And even though May was set to have dinner with Juncker, that was never going to make a dent. Again from the Guardian: But earlier in the day the latest leak of a draft statement from EU leaders, to be published at a European council summit in Brussels on Friday, made clear the desire among member states to continue to take a tough line with Britain. Following lobbying from France and Germany, it contained stronger language than a first draft leaked last week, demanding progress on all three of the opening withdrawal issues in order for trade talks to begin, and an additional mention of the need for a role for the European court of justice in protecting citizens rights. As Politico said in Mays Brexit gambit leaves Brussels mystified: At least there was an agreement about no leaks. This time, the two sides issued a joint statement that twice pronounced the dinner constructive while also agreeing divorce talks needed to accelerate over the next few months. But it was a sign of just how badly the negotiations have gone that according to officials familiar with the dinner discussion Monday night, May and her advisers sought to enlist Juncker and his top negotiator, Michel Barnier, as Britains new allies in Brussels Locked out of the Councils discussion on Brexit on Friday and battered by political critics at home, she correctly identified that Barnier, at least, is committed to finding a solution. Officials in Brussels have repeatedly expressed sympathy for Mays political predicament but stressed they cannot break EU treaty obligations to help her. Senior Commission and Council officials said they had nothing to add to the joint statement by May and Juncker. One official, asked if there was any further insight into Mays goals in coming to Brussels, replied cheekily: Nope, but it was a constructive and friendly dinner. The Guardian article also reports that Donald Tusk, European Council president, wanted this Fridays statement to include text that would give Barnier permission to start talking trade in December if enough progress were made on the open issues. And while it does offer the UK a bone in terms of saying the EU will have think about the future relationship, it wont be much of a think: It is understood, however, that the EU will not present a detailed vision of the future trading relationship even then. When it comes to the future framework there is not that much food for thought from London about what it should look like, one senior source said. So I would say the guidelines adopted later [in December] will be very much forthcoming when it comes to transition and very general when it comes to the future framework as there is not that much we have got from London on the UK vision. At this point, with the talks barely progressing, it seems optimistic to assume the EU will approve adding trade to the negotiations in December. The UK was under pressure to be within hailing distance of an agreement on the three topics at issue, movement of people, the Irish border, and the exit tab, and didnt. Instead, it acted as if it could bully its way into changing the order of negotiations and failed. Theres not much reason to think the UK is any more prepared to come to decisions on charged issues than it was in the last two months, given the lack of any obvious resolution to the standoff between the hard and moderate Brexit camps within the Tory party. Laura Kuenssberg of the BBC pre-punctured the Tories efforts to put a positive spin on the Brussels fail: OK, in theory, if I am driving a car at four miles per hour and I speed up to eight miles per hour, technically I am accelerating. I may still be basically crawling along. I still may be late very, very late for my eventual destination. But, by the very action of pressing the pedal and going faster, I am actually speeding up. If anyone accuses me of going nowhere, or slowing down well, look at my speedometer. I am going faster and I have evidence that you are wrong! That is why, in the next few days, dont be surprised if every Tory politician you see, hear, or read about is using that word (at least those loyal to the government) to claim that there is progress in the Brexit talks, just days after the chief negotiator on the EU side declared a deadlock. With this as background, the Torygraph falls in line with stressing the accelerate word: Theresa May and Jean-Claude Juncker pledge to accelerate Brexit talks but fail to break deadlock. But the real wowser is from the supposedly more evenhanded Times: EU dragging feet to squeeze bigger payment out of Britain. European leaders are deliberately stalling on a deal that would protect the rights of EU and British citizens after Brexit to wring further financial concessions from Theresa May, government sources claimed last night. Statements like this seem credible in isolation: Privately, even some European diplomats admit that calling for the EU courts to have direct oversight of residency rights is a smokescreen. They say it is designed to ensure that the 27 member states cannot be accused of holding up the talks purely over money. until you remember that one of the issues on which sufficient progress needs to be made is the Irish border, and despite some bluster by the Governments mouthpieces, the UK has put nothing credible on the table. The article then argues that the fact that an agreement on the movement of people is almost done means the EU is the stumbling block. The EUs guidelines for the talks made clear sufficient progress had to be made on all first phase issues before moving on. And this part confirms that the Times reporters are clueless or mere scriveners for the UK side: Second, it reflects an acceptance by the British side that it wont make progress on Thursday unless it gets Mr Juncker and Michel Barnier, the EUs chief negotiator, on side. Im afraid I must give short shrift to a new story in Prospect, Peering over the cliff-edge: why Dominic Cummings fears Brexit will fail. For state-side readers, Cumming is often called the brains behind Brexit. Some choice quotes from this must-read piece: Theresa May and David Davis have provided a case study of grotesque uselessness in their approach to Brexit. This comment was not made to Prospect by one of the usual Remainer suspects, but by Dominic Cummings, the Vote Leave mastermind No wonder Cummings is so worriedthis epochal diplomatic screw-up could quite easily happen. The governments Repeal Bill is supposed to take all EU law into UK law, but as Daly points out, even if were still fully convergent with EU law Belgian customs officials, French financiers, Italian importers will not recognise the UK as part of the EU trading system. They wont be allowed to. The Repeal Bill fills the domestic legal vacuum, but without a deal with Europe, our current trading arrangements will fall into a void. Nor is the idea of falling into the arms of a newly-cosy trading relationship with America looking so convincing after the US slapped hefty tariffs on Bombardier and jeopardised jobs at the aircraft manufacturers plant in Northern Ireland. In truth, it was never going to work. I really wish there was a prospect for these negotiations getting back on track. But as one of my colleagues liked to say, Things look the darkest before they go completely black. Yves here. On the one hand, as someone who is getting to be pretty long in tooth, Im not sure about calling un and under-employed older workers spare. But when the alternative is being thrown on the trash heap, maybe that isnt so unflattering. Even though this analysis is from Australia, most of if not all of its finding would almost certainly prove out in the US. However, there is a whole nother set of issues here. Australia is 85% urban, with most of the population living in or near four large cities. So its labor mobility issues are less pronounced than here. Moreover, a lot of the whinging in the US about worker shortages, as even readers of the Wall Street Journal regularly point out in its comment section is: 1. Not being willing to pay enough to skilled workers, which includes not being willing to pay them to relocate 2. Not being willing to train less skilled workers, as companies once did as a matter of course By Leith van Onselen. Originally published at MacroBusiness A few weeks back, the Benevolent Society released a report which found that age-related discrimination is particularly rife in the workplace, with over a quarter (29%) of survey respondents stating they had been turned down for a job because of their old age, whereas 14% claimed they had been denied a promotion because of their old age. Today, the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) has warned that Australia is facing a pension crisis unless employers stop their discrimination against older workers. From The ABC: [RAI] has warned the Federal Governments pension bill would rise from $45 billion to $51 billion within three years, unless efforts were made to help more mature workers gain employment, particularly in regional communities. Chief executive Jack Archer said continued unemployment of people older than 55 would cut economic growth and put a greater strain on public resources. We hear that there is a lot of people who would like to work, who would love to stay in the workforce either part-time or full-time even though theyre in their late 50s, 60s and even into their 70s, he said. But were not doing a very good job of giving them the training, giving them the incentives around the pension, and working with employers to stop the discrimination around employing older workers It basically means youve got a lot of talent on the bench, a lot of people who could be involved and contributing who are sitting around homes and wishing they were doing something else, he said Mr Archer said as the population aged the workforce shrank, and that risked future economic growth. But he said that could be reversed provided employers embraced an older workforce [When] those people are earning [an income], their pension bills will either disappear or be much lower and the government will get a benefit from that. For years the growth lobby and the government has told us that Australia needs to run high levels of immigration in order to alleviate so-called skills shortages and to mitigate an ageing population. This has come despite the Department of Employment showing that Australias skills shortage remains low by historical standards and Australias labour underutilisation rate tracking at high levels: Economic models are often cited as proof that a strong immigration program is good for the economy because they show that real GDP per capita is moderately increased via immigration, based on several dubious assumptions. The most dubious of these assumptions is that population ageing will necessarily result in fewer people working, which will subtract from per capita GDP (due to the ratio of workers to dependents falling). Leaving aside the fact that the assumed benefit to GDP per capita from immigration is only transitory, since migrants also age (thereby requiring an ever-bigger immigration intake to keep the population age profile from rising), it is just as likely that age-specific workforce participation will respond to labour demand, resulting in fewer people being unemployed. This is exactly what has transpired in Japan where an ageing population has driven the unemployment rate down to only 2.8% the lowest level since the early-1990s: The ABS last month revealed that more Australians are working past traditional retirement age, thereby mitigating concerns that population ageing will necessarily reduce the employment-to-population ratio: Clearly, however, there is much further scope to boost workforce participation among older workers. Rather than relying on mass immigration to fill phantom labour shortages in turn displacing both young and older workers alike the more sensible policy option is to moderate immigration and instead better utilise the existing workforce as well as use automation to overcome any loss of workers as the population ages as has been utilised in Japan. Its worth once again highlighting that economists at MIT recently found that there is absolutely no relationship between population ageing and economic decline. To the contrary, population ageing seems to have been associated with improvements in GDP per capita, thanks to increased automation: If anything, countries experiencing more rapid aging have grown more in recent decades we show that since the early 1990s or 2000s, the periods commonly viewed as the beginning of the adverse effects of aging in much of the advanced world, there is no negative association between aging and lower GDP per capita on the contrary, the relationship is significantly positive in many specifications. The last thing that Australia should be doing is running a mass immigration program which, as noted many times by the Productivity Commission cannot provide a long-term solution to ageing, and places increasing strains on infrastructure, housing and the natural environment. The sustainable solution to population ageing is to better utilise the existing workforce, where significant spare capacity exists. (Natural News) Many politicians already play dirty pool when they reach high offices, but nothing good ever comes from accepting campaign funds from pharma companies, especially from evil vaccine manufacturers who want nothing more than every child in the country jacked up with mercury, aluminum and formaldehyde regularly. The natural health movement in America has reached new heights, and more informed consumers are realizing that nothing good comes from repeatedly injecting babies with known neurotoxins, and thats why California Senator Dr. Richard Pan has been crowned with the villainous nickname The Mercury Joker. The Mercury Joker pocketed tens of thousands of dollars from Merck and then authored SB 277, the California law that all children must be force vaccinated with as many toxins as possible or be deprived of their Constitutional right to attend school. Medical Extremist Dr. Pan obliterates medical choice in California and violates cherished AMA code of medical ethics If youre a parent in California and you dont want Child Protective Services showing up at your door with cops with their guns drawn to escort your child to safety (somewhere they can be abused with forced medications), then you might want to give in to the Mercury Jokers demands (illegal ransom State Bill SB 277 funded by Merck). In order to continue living in California with your children, you must now forgo your fundamental human rights and succumb to gunpoint medicine. Richard Pan, the Mercury Joker, believes in gunpoint medicine because it puts money in his campaign pockets so he can remain as the medical dictator of California. The Mercury Joker believes that if mothers and fathers dont like mercury running through their babies brains, then the State should take their children away and the parents should be thrown in jail. After all, autism equates to big money for Big Pharma. To Richard Pan, moms and dads of little children in California are nothing more than surrogate placeholders for the state. The Mercury Joker lies and says mercury is no longer in vaccines, when he knows as well as the CDC that high doses of mercury are certainly STILL ingredients in flu vaccines that are RECOMMENDED by the CDC to pregnant women and 6-month old infants. Again, autism and severe childhood allergies are big business for medical doctors in California, who desperately need that money for their 3-story homes, luxurious vacations and campaign advertisements. Dr. Richard Pan betrayed the very people who put him in office by enslaving them with forced medical intervention. Wave bye-bye to your right to medical choice if you live in California. You have NO rights (all religious and personal exemptions have been banned) to decide if you want chemicals injected into your body, even if those chemicals are PROVEN to cause neurological disorders, cancer, autism, Alzheimers or severe allergies. You will comply with State orders that the tyrannical government has put in place after they were paid to do so by the manufacturers of those chemical medicines who arent even subjected to prove those medicines are safe or effective. Vaccines routinely cause brain damage, autism, comas, seizures and even death, and thats why the secretive vaccine court has awarded over $3 billion dollars to the parents of vaccine-injured children. Its all part of a hush-hush program so the rest of the State of California wont find out that SB 277 enforcing forced vaccination is a scam, illegal, and unconstitutional. America was founded on the freedom of religion, but if your religion believes you should not inject other animals blood into your babies muscle tissue, then your religion has NO place in California. Modern-day slaves now live in California and the Mercury Joker is the Plantation Owner. Even if you know how to read and you read the vaccine insert on the influenza vaccine, which clearly states it contains mercury, you have no right to deny it being injected into your body every year. Feel like youre living in North Korea? You might as well be. Scientific totalitarianism is alive and well in California, thanks to the Mercury Joker Dr. Richard Pan. An evil doctor turned politician how much more dangerous can things get in the Golden State? Senator Pan is a puppet of the pharmaceutical industry A puppet of the pharmaceutical industry takes his marching orders from a criminal cabal steeped in scare-tactic propaganda, felony crimes, bribery, price fixing and experimenting on innocent humans, including babies. Did you know many vaccines today contain infected African Green monkey kidney cells, foreskin from circumcised babies, dairy products, traces of peanut oil, monosodium glutamate (MSG), blood pooled from abortions (its vaccine cannibalism), aluminum, gelatin, and other known carcinogens? No wonder Richard Pan pushes for forced vaccination it severely sickens all the kids that make him MORE money! Bottom line: Dr. Richard Pan, the Mercury Joker, is co-opted by medical interests and was one of more than two dozen California lawmakers who received campaign donations, on record, from Merck in the 2010 election cycle (Merck bankrolled Pan). That was just before he supported the 2011 law allowing girls as young as 12 to get the controversial Gardasil vaccination (HPV), which is manufactured by Merck, without parental consent! This is NO coincidence people. Wake up. The medical dictator Pan delivers his aggressive agenda that directly supports his theories on vaccination which all coincide with financial and powerful lobby interests. Pan is a shill and a huckster who flogs the system at the expense of the health of everyone who voted for him, and those who did not. For more information and warnings about Medical Extremists in your home state, tune into MedicalExtremism.com regularly and safeguard your family from medical tyranny. Sources for this article include: CDC.gov MedicalExtremism.com VaccineImpact.com TheDailySheeple.com HealthImpact.News TruthStreamMedia.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) While many people are aware that type 2 diabetes is a primary health concern here in the United States, it turns out type 1 diabetes is on the rise in children as well. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the bodys inability to produce insulin and is generally considered to be a chronic autoimmune condition. On average, type 1 diabetes only accounts for about five to ten percent of all cases of diabetes. But in the state of Mississippi, the number of children being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes has nearly doubled in the last year. As The Clarion-Ledger reports, 30 children were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the southern state this past August twice as many diagnosed during the same month last year. Mary Fortune, executive vice president of the Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi, told the Ledger that as far as she knows, there is no suspected cause of the increase so far. Theres been talk of environmental, but I dont think anybody knows right now, she said. But Mississippi isnt the only state to see an increase in the number of children suffering from type 1 diabetes. In April, the New England Medical Journal published a study that revealed the number of children with type 1 diabetes has been increasing by approximately two percent every year since 2002. In other words, the number of kids affected by this life-altering condition has been on the rise for the last 15 years and it seems like precious little is truly being done to investigate why. Even Keisha Luckey, a pediatric diabetes coordinator for Childrens of Mississippi and a certified diabetes educator, notes that whats causing this spike in type 1 diabetes is unknown. Are vaccines contributing to the rise of type 1 diabetes? While much of mainstream medicine would be loath to admit it, there is actually evidence that suggests vaccines can contribute to the onset of type 1 diabetes, in addition to other health problems. As the National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC) reports, doctors first started noticing signs of trouble back in 1949. At that time, doctors reported that children who received the pertussis vaccine (now part of the DPT shot) had issues with maintaining normal blood glucose levels. According to NVIC, research conducted with mice confirmed that the pertussis vaccine could cause type 1 diabetes. But its not just the pertussis vaccine, now is it? As NVIC explains: As diabetes research progressed in the 1960s, 70s and 80s, there were observations that viral infections may be a co-factor in causing diabetes. The introduction of live virus vaccines, such as live MMR vaccine which is made from weakened forms of the live measles, mumps and rubella viruses, has raised questions about whether live vaccine virus could by [sic] a co-factor in causing chronic diseases such as diabetes. The rubella virus, for instance, has already been connected to causing type 1 diabetes. Multiple studies from the 1980s have shown that the virus can infect the pancreatic islet cells necessary for insulin secretion, resulting in reduced insulin output. Studies of the mumps virus came to similar conclusions; that virus can also attack the pancreatic islet cells and impede insulin production. Researcher shows link between vaccines and diabetes More recently, research pioneered by J. Barthelow Classen, M.D., a former researcher at the National Institutes of Health and the founder and CEO of Classen Immunotherapies, Inc. upholds previous findings. Dr. Classen has investigated vaccines as a perpetrator of diabetes and claims that the growing epidemic of diabetes in the world is because vaccines given to children at two months and older can induce immune-mediated diabetes. In a 1996 study of 100,000 New Zealand-born babies, Dr. Classen found that the incidence of diabetes increased by 60 percent. His findings showed that this increase occurred after a massive push to vaccinate babies six-weeks of age or older with the Hepatitis B vaccine. NVIC reports the incidence of diabetes before the hepatitis B vaccination program began in 1988 was 11.2 cases per 100,000 children per year while the incidence of diabetes following the hepatitis B vaccination campaign was 18.2 cases per 100,000 children per year. Its really not that hard to imagine; vaccines can cause any number of health problems. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition. Theres actual evidence to suggest vaccines can play a role in the onset of type 1 diabetes it should surprise no one that the number of children affected by this condition is on the rise. Sources for this article include: ClarionLedger.com NVIC.org Diabetes.co.uk (Natural News) In an attempt to be racially inclusive, the Dove soap brand ran an ad that ultimately triggered the opposite reaction than was intended from overly-sensitive, feeble-minded, race-manipulated consumers. The three-second video clip was published on Doves Facebook page in the U.S. The ad features a dark-skinned woman, removing her top to reveal a white woman underneath. The character then removes her t-shirt to reveal a third woman with an even darker skin tone than before. Ready for a Dove shower? Sulfate free with 100 percent gentle cleansers, our body wash gets top marks from dermatologists, the advertisement went. Social media erupted in a firestorm, denouncing the Dove ad as racist and insensitive. Like most corporate advertisers, Dove tries to appeal to all ethnicities of people, but their all-inclusive policy backfired this time because viewers thought that their soap product was depicted as cleaning black people to make them white. Racist accusations were hurled at Dove on Twitter. One Twitter user, Toya M. Jones, tweeted: Dont buy Dove soap, shower gel or lotion. Perhaps if we #BoycottDove and all Unilever products they will learn to RESPECT #blackwomen. Others, such as Oscar-nominated U.S. film director Ava DuVernay, sympathized with the racist delusion. In an attempt to appear morally superior on the topic of race, DuVernay chastised Dove on Twitter: You can do better than missed the mark. Flip and diminishing. Deepens your offense. You do good work. Have been for years. Do better here. Another Twitter user, African Child, also made calls for a boycott of Dove soap, tweeting, Dont these brands know that its 2017 now. People are woke people have a say and people are allowed to boycott products. Comments like these reveal whats going on inside feeble minds that are always looking to play the racism card to get their way or to get attention. They avidly perceive anything that doesnt cater to their physical identity as a threat to their way of life. Their selfish, conceited, narcissistic emotions take hold as they play victim, point fingers, and shout, Youre racist! (Related: Its time to deny all government funding to liberal colleges that cannot stand up to their own deranged, intolerant students.) After all the commotion, Dove apologized on Twitter, saying the company missed the mark in representing women of color thoughtfully. The owner of the Dove brand, Unilever, took the apology a step further to appease unhappy consumers. In an official statement, corporate headquarters announced: As a part of a campaign for Dove body wash, a three-second video clip was posted to the US Facebook page. This did not represent the diversity of real beauty which is something Dove is passionate about and is core to our beliefs, and it should not have happened. We have removed the post and have not published any other related content. We apologize deeply and sincerely for the offence that it has caused. Its sad to see a culture where white people are called racists just because they are white. Things are getting out of hand when entire companies and anything with white in the name are boycotted and banned for perceived racism that isnt there. Much of todays so-called racism is all concocted inside weak, feeble and narcissistic minds who have a victim mentality. These feeble minds call articles like this one racially insensitive and fueled by white privilege because their own victim mentality is not being catered to. Follow more news on identity politics at IdentityPolitics.news. Sources include: Yahoo.com NaturalNews.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) The Alt-Lefts attacks on President Donald J. Trump are taking on an even nastier tone as these disgusting human beings continue to try and separate him from his widening base of support. Most of the time the things Leftists attempt to smear Trump with are complete fabrications, and of course in those cases the main culprits are so-called journalists and reporters from the establishment media. One of the latest attempts to blatantly lie about the president came from economist and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman, who as reported by The Daily Caller attempted to blame Trump for a non-existent outbreak of cholera in post-Hurricane Maria Puerto Rico, as if the islands inhabitants didnt have enough to deal with already. Krugman, an anti-Trump political antagonist who often refers to the president with the derogatory phrase Trumpie, claimed on Twitter recently that the fake cholera outbreak had spread through the U.S. territory which was devastated by Maria, a Category 4 behemoth that wiped out the islands already-dilapidated power grid and left neighborhoods flooded. (Related: Trump lets loose on San Juan mayor after she criticized administrations hurricane relief efforts.) The Daily Caller noted further: Like many liberals, Krugman has claimed that Trump has failed to respond adequately to the storm, which has left Puerto Ricos power grid in shambles and many of its citizens without sufficient drinking water and fuel. But while cholera often appears in areas with poor sanitation and without clean drinking water, the disease has not yet appeared on the island. That didnt stop Krugman from claiming that it had. Krugman tweeted, Cholera. In a US territory. Among US citizens. In the 21st century. Heckuva job, Trumpie. Cholera. In a US territory. Among US citizens. In the 21st century. Heckuva job, Trumpie. Paul Krugman (@paulkrugman) September 30, 2017 Only, as this idiot later had to admit, the outbreak hadnt happened at all. OK, cholera not confirmed. Conjunctivitis yes; lack of clean water (situation worsening, not improving) makes it a risk. But not certain, he later tweeted. OK, cholera not confirmed. Conjunctivitis yes; lack of clean water (situation worsening, not improving) makes it a risk. But not certain Paul Krugman (@paulkrugman) September 30, 2017 Yes, well, being at risk of something is of course far, far different than actually experiencing something. After all, we are at risk of being struck by a meteor, having to wait in a bathroom line at a sporting event, and having to endure another stupid lie from Paul Krugman even if were not actually affected by those problems yet. But Krugman knowing how the Twitterverse knee-jerk responds and re-shares things before daring to verify them may have known that his initial tweet was erroneous, but that it would be picked up as news (it was) and shared widely (it was) before anyone realized what he said was BS. Then, of course, the retraction doesnt make it quite so far in the Twitterverse because the lie fit his followers narrative of Trump, true or not, and they wouldnt dare correct the record. Case in point: As of this writing, his correction was liked 1,685 times and retweeted 601 times; his original accusation, by comparison, was liked 32,781 times and retweeted 14,772 times. So the lie becomes the truth to thousands of people, who then share it with thousands moreand so on. Another Trump fabrication becomes real. The fact is, Trumps response to the Puerto Rican disaster was widely praised by the islands governor and officials from previous administrations much as the Trump administrations response to two previous storms, Hurricanes Harvey, which struck Houston, and Irma, which struck Florida. Ive been looking into this pretty carefully, said former Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services Tevi Troy, as The National Sentinel reported. The truth is that FEMA if you look at this in retrospect, we may find that FEMA did a more Herculean task, in some ways in Maria, in terms of the distance they had to travel, the amount of logistics they had to bring, and the propping up of the local response effort. So I think in time we may actually praise FEMA to some degree because they had to do more here than in the Harvey situation. The Trump administration has done a fabulous job in responding to a quick succession of massive storms that have had devastating impacts on millions of Americans. All Krugman has done to help is clog up the Internet with anti-Trump BS while breathing valuable air. J.D. Heyes is editor of The National Sentinel and a senior writer for Natural News and News Target. Sources include: DailyCaller.com TheNationalSentinel.com (Natural News) Since the end of September, experts claim that there has been a spike in radioactivity detected in the air over Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and France. Although scientists are still unaware of what is responsible for this increase, new calculations suggest that it originally came from somewhere within the southern Ural Mountains. Specifically, the radioactive material that was detected over western and central Europe was the isotope Ruthenium-106, which is part of the platinum group of metals. It is most commonly used in alloys or as catalysts for industrial purposes, and at times as a source of energy to power satellites. According to a statement from the Federal Office for Radiation Protection, while the origin of the radiation is still unknown, new analyses of the source of the radioactive material indicate a release in the southern Ural, but other regions in southern Russia cannot be excluded. While the levels of radiation that have been detected are 17,000 times lower than the limits that have been established for this particular particle, officials noted that the source couldnt possibly be the result of an accident that occurred at a nuclear power plant. Since only ruthenium-106 has been detected, an accident in a nuclear power plant can be excluded as a cause, said a spokesman for FORP, adding, With this small amount of radioactivity, there is no health hazard to the population. Considering the fact that tensions between the United States and Russia have been steadily on the rise in recent months, the idea that increased radiation levels have been detected over western and central Europe is, at the very least, quite concerning. But believe it or not, this isnt even the first time that increased levels of radioactive material have been detected about Russia. Back in February of this year, the Daily Express reported on a radiation spike in Europe that led many to believe that Russia was conducting secret nuclear tests in preparation for an attack. Unlike the radioactive material that was detected late last month, the radioactive material from back in February was Iodine-131, and was first detected over the Russia-Norway border. Eventually, the radiation was also detected in Finland, Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, France and Spain. Iodine-131, which has a half-life of only eight days, is a radioisotope that is found in atomic bombs tested by both the United States and Russia during the early days of the Cold War. This means that there is at least a chance that the Russians are conducting secret nuclear tests, which, needless to say, could mean trouble for the United States and other countries around the world sometime in the not-so-distant future. (Related: Paul Craig Roberts warns that Russia is preparing for a pre-emptive nuclear strike on the United States.) When it comes to stockpiles of nuclear warheads, the Russians are currently in the lead with an estimated 7,000 bombs, followed closely by the United States with 6,800. Other countries dont even come close to these numbers France is armed with 300 nuclear warheads, China has 270, the United Kingdom has 215, Pakistan has 140, India has 130, Israel has 80, and North Korea is equipped with 10. An army equipped with 7,000 nuclear bombs going up against an army with 6,800 nuclear bombs that is, Russia going to war with the United States would be absolutely disastrous and could result in the death of millions of innocent people. President Trump must tread lightly, but at the same time remain committed to the idea of peace through strength as the late Ronald Reagan spoke about over three decades ago. If Russia really is carrying out secret nuclear tests, then the United States must be prepared to take action should it become necessary. Sources include: Dailymail.co.uk Express.co.uk ArmsControl.org Pacific Gas and Electric Co. officials revealed Monday that they have officially notified California regulators of eight separate electric equipment failures in the recent North Bay firestorm but declined to detail what triggered them. Since Sundays windstorm, the company has submitted eight electric incident reports related to damaged facilities to the CPUC, the company said in a statement late Monday, which stresses the utility will support and assist with the review of these wildfires by the appropriate regulatory agencies PG&E referred questions about those reports, however, to state regulators, who did not respond to several requests for details made by NBC Bay Area. The eight incidents now being probed by state regulators as well as Cal Fire are relevant given that the CPUC has long been grappling with a particular fire-safety threat posed from the states 4.2 million power poles. Public Utilities Commission President Michael Picker said Monday that regulators are not able to even determine some basic information about those utility poles, including the nearly 2 million maintained by PG&E. Where is the pole? Picker said in outlining the many unanswered questions about the states electrical infrastructure. Who owns the pole, Whats on it? Whats the condition of the pole? The commission has begun the task of trying to overcome the information gap to create a centralized database. Meanwhile, regulators have been sounding the alarm about those unknowns. Pole problems and violations will cause serious injuries to the public and damage to properties, one regulator stressed during a briefing to the Public Utilities Commission. One danger is that poles can rot from the inside out, said Fadi Daye, a supervisor with the commissions Electric Safety and Reliability Branch, during the commission briefing in May of last year. Another, Daye told the commission, is that poles can be overloaded with unaccounted for gear, weighing them down. Thats a lot of weight, it can act as a sail on a pole in a windy area, said Picker, who is overseeing regulatory proceedings related to power pole data. Overloaded poles can snap, causing lines to break and spark. That is what happened with an Edison utility pole in the Canyon Fire in Malibu in October 2007, a fire fueled by the same kind of high winds that whipped through the North Bay. But in a response to fact finding questions from regulators, PG&E had trouble accounting for exactly what is on power poles, telling regulators this year: Complete information on all attachments and equipment on poles is unattainable so long as joint owners are not required to provide all parties information on attachment and equipment installations. In a statement late Monday, the company said it welcomes any effort to track what equipment is on its power poles as a way to enhance public safety and reliability of utility service. PG&E went on to say, With our constant focus on the safety of the public and our workforce, we share a commitment with the Commission and all California energy companies to ensure the ongoing safety of our infrastructure. Mark Toney, executive director for the ratepayer advocacy group, TURN, says it is too early to say whether power poles are to blame for the recent fires, but the risk is real. We just dont know, Toney said Monday. What we do know is pole safety is incredibly critical right now and that the state and all the utility companies, both the telephone and the energy companies need to work together to make sure we have safer poles all throughout California." In a lawsuit filed Monday, three former Tesla workers, all African American men, claim coworkers and in some cases supervisors routinely called them the N-word. Owen Diaz, a former elevator operator inside the car makers Fremont factory, says coworkers began to harass him shortly after he started in June of 2015. He says they called him the N-word and told him to go back to Africa. He says he even found drawings depicting derogatory images of African Americans placed around the factory. Diaz tried to ignore it, but says what happened to his son nearly broke him. Demetric Diaz, just 19 years old at the time, worked on the production line. I was turning the corner, I was coming out to give my son his lunch, and his supervisor started calling him a [expletive] [n-word], he said. Both men say they complained to the staffing agencies that placed them at Tesla. Owen Diaz sent an email to his boss, a Tesla employee, saying he didnt feel safe around a coworker who he says harassed him. But they say nothing changed, until Demetric was let go a few months after he started, and Owen quit not even a year into the job. Couldnt take it anymore, he said. A third complainant is also named in the lawsuit against Tesla and the staffing agencies. Theyre not the first workers to make allegations of racial discrimination, harassment and retaliation. In March, a production associate filed a suit against the iconic car maker, alleging the company failed to protect him from ongoing racial harassment despite making repeated complaints. One instance was captured on video. Coworkers filmed themselves calling the man the N-word and threatening to cut him up. Teslas managing counsel says the company started an investigation, but failed to see it through after the representative handling the investigation left the company. Tesla took action against the men in the video more than six months later when the company reopened the case. The company declined an interview request to discuss the most recent accusations. In a statement, a Tesla spokesperson said the company takes any and every form of discrimination or harassment extremely seriously. The company says it doesnt seek to avoid responsibility in instances where its at fault, but says that doesnt appear to be the case here. Tesla says its found no evidence the men made complaints about racist language or behavior and says none of the workers ever brought a claim against the company until now. The company is questioning why the men didnt first make discrimination allegations to regulators, which is normally what happens in these sort of cases, and claims the lawsuit is the result of a negative media campaign by one lawyer. Larry Organ of the California Civil Rights Law Group, also filed the lawsuit on behalf of Dewitt Lambert the man at the center of racist threats captured on video. Tesla won the motion directing the case to arbitration. Organ then brought the case to federal court under the Civil Rights Act a move Tesla says shows hes shopping for a more favorable forum. The company claims he is preparing a negative media campaign against Tesla. But Organ says the legal action is a way to force the company to educate workers about acceptable workplace conduct. This conduct is illegal, he said. Tesla says it now requires all employees to complete anti-harassment training, and recently created a team to investigate workplace concerns and recommend disciplinary action to improve employee behavior. We will never be able to stop every single person in the factory from engaging in inappropriate conduct, a Tesla spokesperson said in a statement, but we will continue to do everything that we can to encourage the right behavior and to take action whenever something bad happens. If you have a tip for the Investigative Unit, email theunit@nbcbayarea.com. Like Liz on Facebook or follow her on Twitter. Video recorded by a Berkeley Fire Department strike team responding to the North Bay wildfires shows firsthand how quickly the fire moved and how intense the flames were. At 5 a.m. last Monday, firefighter Mike Shuken was on Berkeley Fire Department Engine 6 and racing for Santa Rosa. The crew was headed for what they thought was a grass fire. But as they hit the city limit, reality started to set in. "It was one of those, 'I can't believe this is happening,'" Shuken said. The Berkeley firefighters were told to stage at a Kmart store and wait for assignment. When they arrived the building was engulfed in flames. Fire then beat the crew to their second spot, a neighboring gas station. "The different areas that we arrived at were being eliminated as safe areas for staging, so we kept pushing forward," Shuken said. The firefighters then found themselves in Santa Rosa's Coffey Park neighborhood, already unrecognizable, as fire had wiped out entire blocks. "We weren't even sure what we were looking at," Shuken said. "Hundreds and hundreds of homes that burned down." With fire burning all around them, they were finally able to make a stand on the 1800 block of Towhee Street. Shuken thinks they managed to save roughly 30 homes, but also learned that one of the hundreds lost belonged to a fellow Berkeley firefighter. Shuken said the video he recorded will not only help other agencies in their response to a natural disaster, but also show the rest of us what it was like on the frontlines of the devastating fire. Hundreds of firefighters on the front lines of the North Bay wildfires have stories of trying to save homes and lives, some of them doing so with unusual tactics. The crew at Engine Company 11 in Santa Rosa no doubt had to improvise quickly after its firefighters found themselves involved in the firestorm of the century Sunday. "The playbook went out the window," said Byron Reid, an 18-year veteran of the Santa Rosa Fire Department. "You had to use the materials around you." The blaze that swept through neighborhoods and commercial properties was something Engine Company 11 had never seen. "There was a time we were surrounded by fire, 360 degrees, commercial structures to your right multiple trailers in front of you," Reid said. "We made entry into one of the houses, we went to the sink." There was no water coming from the faucet, so Reid and his crew mates were forced to improvise. "We couldnt find any available water," he recalled. "We literally went into the refrigerator and got a gallon of milk to fight the fire, and that worked." Reid soon realized his city was getting help from surrounding agencies. Firefighters from Berkeley were on their way. Mike Shuken was one of the first responders. "Apocalyptic," he said. "Its one of those terms, what we felt like when we showed up." Reid was glad they did, saying the mutual aid to battle the inferno will never be forgotten. "Its been a testament how everyone has come together in Sonoma County," Reid said. "Formed together as one." The Harvey Weinstein sex scandal has triggered a huge new movement that is expanding well beyond Hollywood. The hashtag #MeToo message on social media was designed to allow women to acknowledge they have suffered sexual harassment or assault, but it has also turned into a nationwide rallying cry. Chandra Brooks, a commissioner on Santa Clara County's Commission on the Status of Women, allowed NBC Bay Area to be there when she added her name to the list of those publicly acknowledged they had been a victim of sexual harassment or assault. "I've been sexually harassed and assaulted more times than I can even think of, but I must share and let everybody know they are not alone," Brooks said. Brooks is one of many women and girls joining the social media movement. She thinks change will come out of the movement. "I think legislation might happen," Brooks said. "You never know. I think so many things can happen." Brooks said it is hard to say yet what will happen, specifically, as the commission and other groups dedicated to women's rights address the issue, especially when a social media movement is grieving by the minute. Q: My home is gone. May I stop making mortgage payments? A: Maybe, but not forever. Definitely contact your lender now -- and, ideally, before your next payment is due. You can request a pause. Its possible youll hear the term forbearance agreement. Thats bank jargon for the paperwork that lets you temporarily make reduced payments or no payments at all. The Department of Housing and Urban Development can help you find a counselor who can help you. Call 800-569-4287 to find a counselor. Dont just assume this is an automatic process. If you stop making payments without talking to your lender, you risk late fees, a stain on your credit, and the possibility of foreclosure proceedings beginning. So, please call the lender as soon as you can. Q: What should I do about my tax bills? A: You might be able to apply for a reprieve or deferment from paying property and income taxes. For property tax, you should contact your county assessor or tax collector to see how theyre handling requests from fire victims. This is especially important if youve been making installment payments to cover your tax liability. For income tax, the Board of Equalization says relief might be available. Call 800-852-5711. Please dont assume you automatically qualify for help. If you just stop paying your tax bills without contacting the appropriate offices, you could face late fees and liens that could cost your dearly. Q: Will my property taxes be reduced? A: Property tax relief, even refunds, might be available. The state Board of Equalization says homeowners whose houses have suffered at least $10,000 in damage can apply. The property will need to be re-assessed and a new tax bill generated. Sonoma and Napa County assessors have posted forms for calamity reassessment on their homepages. The state says you must apply within the next 12 months. Q: How long does insurance pay for temporary housing? A: Because the fires triggered a state of emergency, state law requires 24 months. Generally speaking, homeowners policies usually cover housing that is similar in size, as well as the fees associated with move-in, like application fees, credit check charges, utility hook-up fees and renters insurance. But, even though the state requires insurance companies to pay for 24 months of temporary housing, some policies cap the amount you can spend. So, you could run out of coverage before the 24-month window ends. You need to get ahold of your policy to see what youre entitled to. Look for alternative living expenses, and please budget accordingly. Q: What do you do while an insurance claim is in the works? A: Its vital that you keep a journal. Document every meeting, phone call, email, and letter from your insurance company. Keep track of dates, times, names, and promises. Agents and adjusters are human. Theyll likely be overwhelmed handling so many claims. So, its likely some things will be overlooked and mistakes will be made. You can correct errors by keeping good notes about the process, what you are entitled to under your policy and whos handling what. This is an emotional time, but insurance claims should be treated as business transactions. The advocacy group called United Policyholders in San Francisco puts it this way: Give your insurance company a chance to do the right thing, but dont mistake a friendly representative for a friend. Q: Who pays for debris removal? A: Your insurance company could cover that cost for you. We commonly find coverage for debris removal in homeowners policies. Sometimes its under a heading like additional coverage. Check your specific policy to be sure. And, before spending any of your own money, ask an agent about the process. Also, dont rush into cleaning up. The Insurance Information Institute tells us that victims should not remove anything until after an adjuster visits the property. Tossing things in the trash too quickly could disrupt your claim. Q: How long will my insurance claim take? A: It might take longer than a month. Once an adjuster visits your property and you complete a form called a proof of claim, state law gives the insurance company 40 calendar days to respond in writing. It can accept your claim, reject it, or do a combination of both. If any part of your claim is rejected, the law requires a statement of the amount and an explanation for why. If theres a problem or a delay at the 40 day mark, the insurance company must tell you about it -- in writing -- and keep you updated every 30 days. Q: Must I just accept what the insurance company says my claim is worth? A: No, you should not. Heres the harsh reality: You might be offered less money than the full value of your insurance policy. Many disaster victims must fight to get the full amount listed on their policy. Some even take the case to court. United Policyholders puts it this way: Think of your insurance claim as a business negotiation. Youre dealing with a for-profit company. So, how do you prevail? Persistence and proof. For every reason the insurance company seeks to reduce your claim, you should construct a counter argument and submit documentation to back it up. When youre given an offer, dont feel rushed. Take your time. And, if youre asked to sign a legal document like a contract, consider asking an attorney to review it for you first. Q: May I pad my homeowners claim to make sure I get the full amount of my policy? A: Absolutely not. Inventing things to inflate an insurance claim is insurance fraud, which can result in fines or even prison time. Insurance companies have zero tolerance for fraud. They can turn you in, and the state can prosecute you. Keep the claim honest. Its true, you might have to fight to get the full amount you are owed. However, you can win sticking to facts. Getting caught committing fraud will cause many, many more problems. Q: Will my insurance claim check be given to me? A: Very likely, yes. But, your name wont necessarily be the only name on it. If you have a mortgage on your home, the insurance company will likely make the check out to you and your bank. That means the lender might get the money first. Then, youll have to get them to release it to you. Will that take time? Yes. Will that require paperwork? Yes. Thats why its important to make contact with your insurance company and your lender as soon as possible. Get everyone talking ASAP so everyone knows exactly what to expect. Q: How much should I pay a contractor before repair work starts? A: This is where many, many, people get scammed. In California, state law says contractors may collect only 10 percent of the cost of a job or $1,000 upfront, whichever is less. If a contractor is asking for more, he or she is breaking the law at the outset. That is a red flag to turn them away, and, perhaps, turn them in. You can report shady contractors to the contractors state license board, 800-21-CSLB. The operators there can also look up licenses for you -- which really is step one. Never hire an unlicensed contractor. And never agree to a job without a written contract that outlines exactly what work is to be done and exactly how much it will cost you. Q: What should be in a 'go bag'? A: Essentials. Think about it: If youre suddenly ordered to evacuate your home, shelters will not be open immediately. Youll be on your own right away. Everyones supplies will be somewhat different, but generally speaking, bring enough medicine, clothing, non-perishable food, water and cash to be self-sufficient for at least two days. Also, as the simultaneous collapse of the cellular network and road closures during the firestorm taught us, a paper road map of your area is key. GPS could be useless. Build your go bag now and put it someplace where you can genuinely grab it and go. A silver sedan crashed into a patio near a bustling Starbucks on Michigan Avenue Tuesday afternoon sending the driver to the hospital. A witness said he was sitting in the front window of the coffee shop, on Michigan Avenue near Adams Street, when a woman drove onto the sidewalk and heard a loud boom sometime after 1 p.m. The car made slight contact with the building. The witness said the driver was not seriously hurt and no one else appeared to be injured. Chicago police did not immediately respond to request for comment. Two people were killed and another suffered critical injuries in a crash involving a semi-trailer truck Monday morning in west suburban North Aurora. Two vehicles were heading north on Orchard Road just before noon when they struck a semi at the I-88 overpass, according to Kane County sheriffs office spokesman Patrick Gengler. The Jaguar and GMC Envoy were traveling "apparently at high rates of speed" when the vehicles both struck the trailer portion of the semi as it turned south onto Orchard, Gengler said in a statement. The 38-year-old driver of the Jaguar and the 27-year-old driver of the semi-tractor were each transported to area hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the Envoy was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was later identified as 23-year-old Christopher Shaw, of North Aurora, according to police. Two passengers of the Envoy were flown from the scene to a Chicago-area hospital, authorities said, where the front seat passenger succumbed to his injuries at around 5:50 p.m. He was later identified as 24-year-old Devonte Bouchee, of Aurora, according to police. The 23-year-old rear seat passenger sustained potentially life threatening injuries, police said. Gengler said the Kane County Sheriffs Office and Aurora Police are investigating separate reports of shots fired in the Aurora area prior to the crash. One report came at 11:04 a.m. on Konen Avenue near Arlene Street in unincorporated Kane County, and the other came at about 11:45 a.m. on Nantucket and Durham near Indian Trail. In the first instance, nothing was struck in the reported gunfire. In the second report, Aurora Police say two homes sustained damage but no one was hurt. "Both reports involved vehicles chasing each other and shots being exchanged," Gengler said. "It is possible that the three incidents are related," he said, "however at this time the investigation is ongoing and we are withholding releasing the identities of those involved pending notification of the next of kin." Anyone with information on the shootings is being asked to call Kane County Sheriffs Investigators at 630-444-1103, Aurora Police Investigations at 630-256-5500 or Aurora Area Crime Stoppers at 630-892-1000. The New London City Council voted to slash millions from education and said the uncertainty surrounding the state's budget is the reason for such a tough decision. "Thats not fiscal responsibility, thats not caring for our kids," a resident, Daniel Spur, said. The city council debated the entire city budget on Monday night at City Hall. School district leaders pleaded for the city to make a change before the council likely votes on the cut. We have to position ourselves fiscally as a worst-case scenario, Don Venditto, New London City Council President Pro Tempore, said. The City of New London is operating without a budget and is also proposing $8,238,000 worth of cuts from the general city budget. With the state budget in flux, there are still many funding unknowns. Interim Superintendent Dr. Stephen Tracy said the district will be forced to operate with 11.7 percent fewer general fund dollars than last year. He does not want that to bleed directly into the classroom since a large majority of district resources are spent in the schools and on student services. "That we take another look and try to make sure it comes out as balanced as it can be. That we dont have a situation where one side of the budget is suffering millions of dollars of reduction and the other isnt," Tracy said. New London Mayor Michael Passero got heated with Tracy before the meeting. He told NBC Connecticut that the $4.2 million in cuts comes from the state, saying the number came from the education revenue cuts for the city in the budget recently vetoed by Gov. Dannel Malloy. He said the city cant reduce a budget, but it can add to it. So, the district could see that money come back when the state budget is intact. "In effect theyre saying, Were not cutting you, theyre cutting you. All I know is, if nobody does anything, were in the position of not being able to deliver the program that were supposed to deliver," Tracy said. After a wind gust to 118 mph in County Cork parts of the Irish countryside are littered with debris following Storm Ophelia. The storm was a remarkable one. Hurricane Ophelia strengthened to a category 3 hurricane near the Azores and was a hurricane as late as 11 p.m. Sunday night just hours before striking Ireland. With the exception of Hurricane Debbie (1961) this is the farthest northeast a hurricane has been observed in the Atlantic Ocean. The eye of the storm passed over Valentia Observatory in Co. Kerry. Graphic of MSLP (pressure) below. Central pressure was 959hPa#Ophelia pic.twitter.com/MTUIGKvsa8 Met Eireann (@MetEireann) October 16, 2017 The cold water around Ireland is not hospitable to hurricanes, however. Ophelia lost its tropical characteristics as expected before making landfall on the Dingle Peninsula early Monday. While the storm was no longer a hurricane - much like Sandy - it didn't weaken. In fact, Ophelia strengthened as it continued to get its energy from the a powerful jet stream over the North Atlantic. The extratropical transition of Ophelia just about complete. Powerful warm seclusion maintains strength in right entrance region of big jet. pic.twitter.com/RRqoXDDKaC Ryan Hanrahan (@ryanhanrahan) October 16, 2017 Ireland is no stranger to powerful Autumn and winter storms though Ophelia was one of the stronger ones in recent years. 400,000 utility customers lost power from the storm and there was quite a bit of structural damage in Counties Cork and Kerry. Storm surge flooding was quite widespread in some areas on the southern and western coasts of of Ireland - including Galway. The sky in #London has turned into a CRAZY(!) reddish brown colour. It feels incredibly weird...and getting more weird by the minute. So many people are looking at the sky and taking photos. #Ophelia #SaharanDust #FireParticles #RedSun pic.twitter.com/nMQ2e7MdTb Tomasz Schafernaker (@Schafernaker) October 16, 2017 One incredible side effect of Ophelia was the storm's wind managed to fan wildfires in Portugal and the storm's circulation sucked the smoke north into the United Kingdom. In London, the afternoon sky turned a creepy orange/red thanks to Ophelia and the horrific wildfires Ophelia helped fan on the Iberian Peninsula. A remarkable storm during a remarkable hurricane season. One man died after two men were shot while riding their bicycles near a Metro Gold Line Station early Tuesday in Boyle Heights. The Los Angeles Police Department Hollenbeck Community Police Station responded to the double shooting just before 2 a.m. on 3rd Street and Indiana Street. The victims were shot at multiple times with one of them being struck in the chest and the other in the back. The conditions of the victims were not immediately available. Metro's Gold Line Station plans to assess the situation as police investigate the shooting to determine if it can resume transportation. Details on what led up to the shooting were not immediately clear and a description of the gunman was not immediately available. This is a developing story. Please refresh for details. What to Know Lt. Steven Floyd died in the Feb. uprising at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Facility. Some of the men accused of murdering Floyd are already serving time for other killings. The indictment became unsealed after each prisoner could be processed on the new charges. Sixteen prisoners face first-degree murder charges in the killing of corrections officer Lt. Steven Floyd during a Delaware prison uprising earlier this year. Nine of the accused are already convicted killers. Besides the murder charges, the inmates at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center are also accused of injuring two other corrections officers and kidnapping a prison counselor. The charges were revealed in a New Castle County Grand Jury indictment unsealed Tuesday. "This was an extremely important and time-consuming investigation that involved unique challenges." Attorney General Matt Denn said. "I appreciate the police and prosecutors' focus on ensuring that justice is done for the victims in this case and their families." The two-day prison riot at the Smyrna facility broke out in early February. Floyd, 47, was found dead after the prolonged hostage standoff. A medical examiner ruled his death a homicide by trauma. These men face first-degree murder, first-degree assault, first-degree kidnapping, riot and conspiracy charges: 1. Jarreau Ayers, age 36 currently serving a life sentence for Murder 1st Degree and other charges 2. Abednego Baynes, age 25 currently serving 18 years for Murder 2nd Degree 3. Kevin Berry, age 27 currently serving 14 years for three counts of Robbery 1st Degree and other charges 4. John Bramble, age 28 currently serving 40 years for Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, Assault Second Degree, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited, Possession of Ammunition by a Person Prohibited, and Home invasion 5. Abdul-Haqq El-Qadeer, aka Louis Sierra, age 31 currently serving a life sentence for Murder 1st Degree 6. Deric Forney, age 28 currently serving 11 years for Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony, Possession of a Firearm By a Person Prohibited and drug charges 7. Kelly Gibbs, age 29 currently serving 24 years 9 month sentence for Murder 2nd Degree 8. Robert Hernandez, age 36 an inmate from New Mexico serving a 16-year sentence for Murder 2nd Degree in that state 9. Janiis Mathis, age 25 currently serving 15 years for Assault 2nd Degree and other charges 10. Lawrence Michaels, age 31 currently serving 19 years for Kidnapping 1st Degree, Attempted Robbery 1st Degree, Possession of a Firearm during Commission of a Felony and other charges 11. Obadiah Miller, age 25 currently serving 10 years for Manslaughter and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony 12. Jonatan Rodriguez, age 25 currently serving 40 years for Manslaughter and other charges 13. Alejandro Rodriguez-Ortiz, age 27 - currently serving 40 years for Manslaughter and other charges 14. Roman Shankaras, age 30 currently serving 7 years for Riot and two counts of Robbery 1st 15. Corey Smith, age 32 currently serving 14 years for a Violation of Probation for Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Person Prohibited, Violation of Probation for Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon, Attempted Robbery First Degree, Assault Second Degree, Promoting Prison Contraband 16. Dwayne Staats, age 35 currently serving a life sentence for Murder 1st Degree Two other inmates both previously convicted killers face kidnapping, riot and conspiracy charges: 1. Pedro Chairez, age 42 - an inmate from Arizona serving a 43-year sentence for Murder 2nd and other charges committed in that state 2. Royal Downs, age 52 an inmate from Maryland serving a life sentence for Murder 1st Degree and other charges committed in that state Each inmate was processed on the indictments before the unsealing and remain in custody, the state said. An attorney will be provided for each of the 18 men accused in the deadly riot, Delaware's Office of Defense Services said. "The Office of Defense Services is committed to providing each and every client with competent, conflict-free legal representation," chief defender Brendan ONeill said. "Under our system of justice each of these persons is presumed innocent and the lawyers in the Office of Defense Services will do their utmost to protect the constitutional rights of their clients. The Office of Defense Services has no other comment at this time." Attorneys representing the Floyd family and the other hostages' families declined comment Tuesday. A crash snarled traffic along the Pennsylvania Turnpike Tuesday morning as crews worked for about an hour to free a person from the wreckage. A car became wedged under the back of tractor-trailer along the eastbound lanes between the Neshaminey Falls and the Delaware Valley interchanges in Bucks County around 5:40 a.m., Pennsylvania State Police said. It took crews some time to free the driver of the car as a medical helicopter landed about an hour after the wreck. Once loaded into the chopper, the driver was rushed to Temple University Hospital with undisclosed injuries. The truck driver wasn't hurt, police said. Around one lane got by as crews worked at the scene so expect delays. All lanes reopened around 8:20 a.m., the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission said. With Election Day quickly approaching, the race for Virginia governor is tightening, according to a new tracking poll by the Wason Center for Public Policy at Christopher Newport University. Democrat Ralph Northam is maintaining his lead over Republican Ed Gillespie, but Gillespie's share has increased slightly. According to the poll released Tuesday, 48 percent of voters prefer Northam while 44 percent say they would vote for Gillespie. Three percent of voters polled in the survey chose Libertarian Cliff Hyra, and 5 percent said they were undecided. The new poll places Northam's lead within the survey's margin of error. "With even a weak third-party candidate on the ballot, the winner may not cross the 50 percent mark," said Rachel Bitecofer, assistant director of the Wason Center. "But theres plenty of room and time left for Northam to close the deal or for Gillespie to close the gap." This poll did not include the state's other races. Virginia is one of only two states electing governors in 2017, and the contest is getting national attention as a potential early referendum on President Donald Trump's first year. The other gubernatrial race is in New Jersey. Gillespie is debating with his advisers whether to ask Trump to campaign with him, The New York Times reported, citing multiple Republican officials. Trump performed well during the presidential election in many rural areas of the state, but not in more populous places like Fairfax County. Virginia's election will take place Nov. 7. San Diegans found many ways to stay cool as intense heat beat down on the region and much of Southern California Monday. Because we are so high temperature-wise and we are very, very dry that is why our fire danger is elevated today, NBC 7 Meteorologist Jodi Kodesh said. Temperatures in the desert peaked around 95 while the mountains saw temperatures in the low to mid-80s. Coastal communities saw temperatures in the 90s. "It's like death hot. I don't know," said Evan Wagley of La Mesa. "All of those types of descriptive words." While residents struggled to cope with the blazing hot weather, juice and ice cream sales rose. The high temperatures attracted some additional business to various shops. "Sales probably go up by 25 percent," said Shari Newquist, the owner of The Yogurt Mill in El Cajon. "They're lined up to the parking lot, and we're working as fast as we can. It's a zoo in here on hot days." Kodesh said the region will receive winds from the north and the east - what is described as a Santa Ana airflow. However, strong winds will not accompany the dry weather. "I actually took my break a little earlier today than usual," said Christina Rodriguez, a worker at the Primo Santo Farm grocery store. "I came to my car and I turned on the AC for the whole break." One couple, Cookie Johnson and her husband Bob Johnson, came to San Diego to get out of the sweltering heat in Ramona. "It's our one indulgence that we like to have," said Bob. Temperatures are expected to dip slightly Tuesday before the weather cools downs significantly toward the middle of the week. 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. No threat has been found at Howard University after the school received at least two reports of an active shooter during the historically black school's homecoming week. The lockdown is over and the scene has been cleared, D.C. police announced about 2:05 p.m. Tuesday. "We have found no evidence, no witnesses, nothing that supports that there was a shooting on our campus in any location," Alonzo Joy, the university's interim police chief, said at a news conference. The university was "anonymously notified of a potential shooter on campus," school officials said in a statement earlier Tuesday. "We took the call seriously and police are investigating." This afternoon, we were anonymously notified of a potential shooter on campus. We took the call seriously and police are investigating. Howard University (@HowardU) October 17, 2017 Because the safety of our students and staff are our number one priority, the Admin Bldg has been evacuated. Howard University (@HowardU) October 17, 2017 Police are currently conducting a sweep of campus. All students & staff should stay in place & shelter in place until further notification Howard University (@HowardU) October 17, 2017 Howard University College of Medicine received one call from someone who said there was an active shooter on campus, Joy said. D.C. police received a second call. Who made the calls and why is under investigation, Joy and Metropolitan Police Department Patrol Chief Lamar Greene said at the news conference. "There are going to be some serious repercussions if we identify who was engaged with this," Joy said. D.C. police said on Twitter at 12:21 p.m. that they were investigating a report of an active shooter. The message sparked fear among students, who were learning of the potential threat for the first time. Howard University sent students a text message about 12:40 p.m. that said: "ALERT!! There is a report of an ARMED person throughout the campus shelter in place while police investigate." People ran out of the administration building, cellphone video shot by a student shows. Officers swept through the campus for hours looking for signs of danger. Some officers wore riot helmets and body armor, and carried long rifles. The FBI assisted. Students and staff were told to shelter in place. The school's Administration Building, which is located on the 2400 block of Sixth St. NW, was evacuated, school officials say. And people in the area were advised to take precautions. Howard students told News4 they were worried. "I just hope nobody's hurt," one student said. Some streets around campus were closed. Sixth Street NW was closed from Fairmont Street to College Street, and Howard Place was closed from Georgia Avenue to 4th Street. Howard is celebrating its 150th anniversary and homecoming this week. Homecoming will continue as planned, school president Wayne A.I. Frederick said. "We will have a safe homecoming," he said. All classes for the remainder of Tuesday were canceled. Earlier this month, an Alexandria, Virginia, man was arrested nearly two years after police say he threatened to murder African Americans at the university. The Nov. 2015 threat was posted on the website 4Chan, which allows users to post anonymously. Stay with News4 for more details on this developing story. Lymphogranuloma venereum represents a sexually-transmitted disease caused by specific serovars L1-3 of the obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. The disease presents with a shallow ulcer or painless papule, and enlarged and tender lymph nodes (known as buboes) arise in the regional lymphatics. Lymphogranuloma venereum is also an important cause of proctitis in men who have sex with men. It is important to rule out other potential causes of genital ulceration and inguinal lymphadenopathy before any therapeutic interventions. Early medical treatment is of immense value for preventing disease transmission, as well as for halting the development of complications and potentially mutilating sequelae. Treatment Algorithm The goal of therapy for lymphogranuloma venereum is to eradicate the putative microorganism. The treatment of choice (supported by more than fifty years of clinical experience) is doxycycline, 100 milligrams two times per day for a total of 21 days. This recommendation is based on numerous case series, and the regimen is characterized by convenient dosage, minimal toxicity and favorable pharmacokinetic profile. The alternative approach is erythromycin base, 500 milligrams four times per day for a total of 21 days. The proposed three-week period in both instances is necessary since lymphogranuloma venereum is more invasive and problematic to eradicate when compared to uncomplicated infections of the genital tract. Treatments based on fluoroquinolones might also be effective, but there are no studies evaluating the optimal duration of treatment. The activity of azithromycin against Chlamydia trachomatis suggests that this drug may also be effective, but at the moment we lack supporting clinical data. It is being used as a medication for pregnant women, although official recommendations still endorse erythromycin stearate regimen. Lab Diagnostics & Automation eBook Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year. Download a copy today In addition to antibiotics, local management of buboes (primarily by incision and drainage, or by aspiration through intact skin) must be considered in order to prevent the development of fistulous tracts. Rectal strictures should be dilated at weekly intervals either manually or with elastic bougies. Follow-up and Prognosis Patients should be monitored until symptoms and signs of the disease have resolved, which may occur within 3-6 weeks. Tests of cure should be performed approximately 3-4 weeks after effective treatment is completed in order to avoid false positive findings due to the presence of non-viable microorganisms (especially if molecular methods are used). In any case, prognosis is excellent for acute infections that are treated with appropriate antimicrobial drugs. In instances of anatomical defects that may necessitate surgical interventions (such as strictures, sinus or fistulae), patients need to be followed up until their problem is resolved. Partner management is also pivotal; individuals who have had sexual contacts with the affected patient within six months of the symptom appearance, or in instances of asymptomatic disease at the time of diagnosis, should be adequately examined, tested for Chlamydia trachomatis, and treated empirically immediately. Prevention Efforts In endemic areas of the world, lymphogranuloma venereum can be successfully prevented by avoiding casual sexual contact (particularly with commercial sex workers) and by practicing safe sexual habits (most notably by using condoms). As already mentioned, all sexual contacts must be traced and swiftly treated. The use of enema prior to receptive anal intercourse should be discouraged, as it is linked to rectal chlamydial infections, and especially lymphogranuloma venereum proctitis. Health-seeking behavior and health literacy of those at risk must be encouraged. In conclusion, there is a need for cheaper and improved screening tools if we are to detect cases in larger groups of people at risk. This is of utmost importance to prevent potential complications and stop transmission in the community. A deeper understanding of both microbial and immunological background of lymphogranuloma venereum will aid in successfully tackling this infection. Sources https://www.cdc.gov/std/tg2015/lgv.htm https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26602624 http://www.cfp.ca/content/cfp/62/7/554.full.pdf http://www.scielo.br/pdf/abd/v85n4/v85n4a15.pdf https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4381887/ www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1744436/pdf/v078p00090.pdf de Vries HJC, Reddy BSN, Khandpur S. Lymphogranuloma Venereum. In: Kumar B, Gupta S, editors. Sexually Transmitted Infections, Second Edition. Elsevier Health Sciences, 2014; pp. 506-521. Further Reading Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or fear that often comes when a persons body responds to a critical or frightening situation. In this condition, the body prepares for an action, i.e., to fight against the threat or run away from it. When our mind prepares to cope with the threat, our body shows some physical symptoms, which vary based on the type of anxiety. This is a common problem in people, especially among those sentenced to imprisonment. A study by the Ministry of Justice found that 23% of male and 49% of female prisoners suffer from depression and anxiety. Image Credit: karanik yimpat / Shutterstock Causes of Prisoner Anxiety There can be numerous causes that make a prisoner anxious, some of which are: Crime: The prisoner perpetually thinks about the crime he has committed and feels worry or guilt, leading to mental stress. Place: Prisoners are bound to a restricted space and are separated from their loved ones; this isolation makes them feel strongly about their loss of freedom, and thus they are pushed into a world of stress and depression. People: They are surrounded by other prisoners who may be unpredictable and of violent character or behavior; this creates fear leading to anxiety. Prolonged imprisonment: In addition to the above, persons who undergo frequent or continuous imprisonments are affected by psychological conditions. They brood about what society might have to say about their term; this increases the risk levels for development of major stress or mental illness. Poverty, substance abuse, unemployment, lack of early intervention, mental health services in the community are also factors that cause mental illness among prisoners. Some intrinsic causes such as effects of incarceration, role of the police, and role of sentencing also affect the mental health of inmates. Anxiety Symptoms in Prisoners Some anxiety symptoms that are exhibited by prisoners are as follows: Whenever the prison door opens or closes, the inmates are perturbed and feel stressed. They are angry and testy, and always at the edge, expecting something untoward to happen. Without any reason, sometimes they feel that they are going mad or losing control. They feel sweaty and have difficulty in breathing, along with sleep problems. Stressful concerns such as deprivation, uselessness, changes in behavior, etc., are seen in persons who go to prison or court. While prisoners wait for a visitor or for mail, they feel a tightness in their throat and mouth and which subsequently become dry. These symptoms, unless understood properly by the prisoner will in no way help him to overcome the anxiety that he experiences; in fact, they may worsen his condition. Diagnosis If the above symptoms are found in the inmates of a prison, their medical history should be examined by the physician to confirm the presence of anxiety. There are no other lab tests that can ratify or diagnose the disorder. Treatment Anxiety in a prisoner is treatable; the treatment may be complex if the person has more than one anxiety, or has substance abuse. Therefore, the processes involved are specifically personalized for each individual. Some standard methods of treatment have also proved effective. Such methods include therapies as well as medications. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy A commonly used solution-oriented and combined therapy is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Negative and diverse patterns in the manner a person looks at themself as well as the world are addressed in this therapy. It concentrates more on identifying, analyzing, understanding, and altering the thinking and behavior patterns of the patient. This therapy involves two main components: Cognitive therapy: Examines factors such as negative thoughts or cognitions. Examines factors such as negative thoughts or cognitions. Behavior therapy: Examines how one behaves and reacts in situations. The patient actively participates in this therapy and learns skills that are useful for self-recovery. Learning about the problems, maintenance of consultation records, doing homework assignments, etc., are the tasks they involve in. To improve using CBT, patients must continuously practice the skills that they learn during therapy sessions. Based on the individual, the benefits of this therapy in prisoners are usually seen by 1216 weeks. Medication Medications for anxiety are usually safe and effective, and are frequently used along with the therapies. Based on the severity of the symptoms, the period of medication varies from short-term to long-term. However, it usually takes some time for the drug to work better in patients, if taken as instructed by the physician. Medication for anxiety usually includes antidepressants and sedatives that are prescribed based on the severity of the symptoms. Self-Help In many cases, the prisoner themself can treat their condition of anxiety in a variety of ways, such as by practicing meditation, physical exercises, resting in a dark room, or talking with sympathetic persons. The rate of success of treatment varies, as some may respond to treatment within a few weeks or months, while others may need more than a year. Further Reading The plague outbreak in Madagascar is killing scores of people and affecting hundreds. Last estimated on the 12th of October 2017, there are 57 reported deaths due to the disease with 680 down with the infection. Of these 25 deaths and 329 cases are from the capital city of Antananarivo. The cases and deaths due to this infection are reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Bureau for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) in Madagascar. Madagascar faces plagues outbreaks almost yearly and there are hundreds of patients each year coming down with this infection. This year however has been different say experts. For one, this year the infections have begun earlier than every year making it a possibility that many more might be infected this year. Also the health officials report that this year the infections seemed to be occurring in the urban areas too unlike previous years. The two of Madagascars largest cities, Antananarivo and Toamasina, are affected this year. Pneumonic plague that can easily be transmitted from one person to another is also on the rise this year, the reports suggest. Since 12th of October, the 684 cases include 474 cases of pneumonic plagues, 156 cases of bubonic plague and 1 case of septicemic plague. An additional 54 are not yet classified. At least 10 Madagascar cities from 35 out of the total 114 districts have been affected by plague say the reports. As an effort to curb the outbreak the government is supplying antibiotics to protect and treat the cases of plague. Schools and all other public places are being sprayed with disinfectants that would control the fleas and the rats that could transmit the infection. Public gatherings, schools etc. are closed at present to deal with the spread of the infection says the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC). Aids and help is being provided by numerous organizations including the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team, WHO, Medecins Sans Frontieres, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Institute Pasteur etc. The WHO, on the 6th of this month supplied 1.2 million doses of antibiotics and released emergency funds to the tune of $1.5 million to combat this infection. The Red Cross has contributed over a million dollars to start treatment centres and also to train health care workers to monitor and control the spread of the infection through awareness. Plague Plague is a bacterial infection also known as the Black Death as it wiped out a significant population of the world in the mid 1300s killing 75 to 200 million Europeans and Asians. The infection is caused by a bacteria Yersinia pestis. The bacteria spreads from animal to animal via fleas. The bite of an infected flea can carry the infection from one rat to another. Rats spread a type of plague called the bubonic plague that leads to formation of painful and swollen lymph nodes that are called bubos. In addition there is high fever. Another type of plague that is more dangerous is the pneumonic plague that leads to a severe life-threatening lung infection. This form of infection spreads via aerosols that are released in the air as an infected person coughs or sneezes. This infection is very severe and within 12 to 24 hours of contracting the infection, an infected person may die. If detected early both bubonic and pneumonic plague can be effectively treated with antibiotics. A rarer form of the infection is the septicemic plague. Here the infection spreads to the blood and affects all the tissues making them black and necrotic. According to the WHO, plague is a disease of poverty caused mainly by the unsanitary living conditions. Pneumonic plague however can spread to not-so-poor individuals too because it is air-borne, the experts say. Madagascar has been fighting plague for a hundred years when steamships from India in 1898 brought in rats that were infected with this bacteria. In the 1930s the disease was supressed to a great extent, only to reappear in the recent times for the last few decades. The Democratic Republic of Congo and Peru too face regular serious outbreaks of plague. Every other month, Tanya Nelson travels 32 miles from the heart of Appalachia's coal country for an appointment with the nearest psychiatrist for therapy and to renew prescriptions. But the commute, which should take less than an hour through the winding mountain roads of southern West Virginia, consumes her entire day. Nelson, 29, needs treatment for bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety. But she does not drive, so she must use a van service to keep her appointments. It makes numerous stops along the highway, picking up other travelers, and usually doesn't return to her home in New Richmond, W.Va., until days end. "I'll call and tell them I'm ready [after my appointment ends], but they tell me they're waiting for someone else," Nelson said as she described a typical trip. Nelson is among many area residents who do not drive. Patricia Hagerman, 63, of nearby War, W.Va., has relied on her sister for the past 11 years to drive her about an hour each way to the nearest psychiatrist in Princeton, W.Va. She makes the trip once every two months for depression and anxiety treatment. "I don't want to go," Hagerman said, "But I do go. [Seeing the psychiatrist is] worth the trip." Getting mental health services here is fraught with challenges. But the need is great. There are no psychiatrists in Wyoming County. A handful of small, general medical practices and a few behavioral health specialists handle services for the 21,763 residents. Patients' issues ranging from depression, anxiety, addiction and other mental health concerns are aggravated by the local economic downturn. Dr. Joanna Bailey, who practices family medicine here and treats patients covered by Medicaid, said the lack of mental health care access puts her patients at a disadvantage. "As a family doctor, I'm doing way more psychiatry than I am comfortable with," Bailey said. She sends patients like Nelson, who need more specialized help, to the closest psychiatrist in Beckley, W.Va. In addition to the transportation hurdle, it can take a month or more to get an appointment. Bailey practices in both Wyoming and McDowell counties Appalachian areas once fueled by a booming coal industry. Today, much of the local economy relies on tourists coming to use the area's ATV trails. Infrastructure has been neglected. Shops have been boarded up and abandoned. Medicaid enrollment is roughly 35 percent in Wyoming County and 48 percent in McDowell County, according to the advocacy group West Virginians for Affordable Health Care. She said about 30 percent of her caseload is treatment for mental health issues. As someone who was born and raised in Wyoming County and has witnessed the economic slide, Bailey understands many of the issues her patients face. The coal industry, which was once king in this region, has been declining for years. "So, we've lost a lot of people, and that's depressing," Bailey said. "We haven't had growth, and a lot of people are unemployed right now. That's traumatic to families on every level." When parents with mental health disorders go untreated, a "vicious cycle" is set in motion, she said. "Those children grow up with the same mental health issues because they've watched the same unhealthy relationships their whole life," Bailey said. "Its just a cycle of abuse and trauma." Joy Butcher-Winfree works alongside Bailey as the sole clinical psychologist within their practice. She usually handles about nine behavioral health cases each day. "I only have so much time and only so much energy," Butcher-Winfree said. "Its very overwhelming most all the time. If someone is in a crisis, they need more than that 15-, 30- or 45-minute slot." One resource for patients is the Southern Highlands Community Mental Health Center, which also accepts Medicaid patients. The Wyoming County location serves about 400 people, according to clinic administrator Rebecca Marsh. It offers therapy sessions and counseling, among other services, such as group support meetings and community engagement programs. Yet Marsh said she has trouble hiring employees. "Its difficult for folks from surrounding areas to drive to this area to provide the services that are needed," Marsh said. Study after study shows health markers in Appalachia lagging. In August, an analysis in the journal Health Affairs found a widening gap comparing health indicators such as infant mortality and life expectancy in Appalachia with the rest of the country. Also in August, research released by the Appalachian Regional Commission highlighted the area's high mortality rates in seven of the nation's leading causes of death including suicide. It also showed the region has fewer health care professionals compared with the rest of the country, specifically mental health care providers. The lack of sufficient mental health care access contributes to other health issues, such as chronic pain, substance abuse, nicotine-related diseases and more, Bailey said. She said some cases make her nervous about whether she has the background to provide sufficient care. One of those is depression in adolescents. She said she prescribed one patient the antidepressant Prozac but fears that a bad reaction to the drug led the teen to attempt suicide. Since that episode, "it makes me more nervous," Bailey said. "But you know, at this point, I'm a month out of being able to get people in [to see a psychiatrist], unless I'm sending somebody to the hospital." The lack of mental health care professionals, specifically psychiatrists, is also an effect of Appalachia's suffering economy, Butcher-Winfree said. Most of the patients whom Bailey and Butcher-Winfree treat are insured by Medicare or Medicaid. The poverty level in Wyoming and McDowell counties is about 23 percent and 35 percent, respectively, according to 2015 figures from the Census Bureau. The practice is a federally qualified health care center. It offers a sliding fee scale based on the patient's ability to pay for those who live at or below the federal poverty level and receives federal subsidies for providing care to an underserved area. That funding is pivotal in helping to keep the practice financially viable, Butcher-Winfree said. "For a private practice, it would be absolutely impossible to make a living and reimburse student debt," she said. She added that the rural location deters doctors as well. Butcher-Winfree drives an hour and a half each day from her home in Mercer County to the clinic. One resource Bailey said will soon help is the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) program through West Virginia University. Specialists at the college are available for rural health care providers to consult on cases. Bailey participates in the ECHO programs on hepatitis C and chronic pain. Soon she will be in a psychiatry program as well. She said she presents patients' cases to the hub participants, who in turn make suggestions for her. "We can implement the care they would be receiving at a specialty center," Bailey said. "That has helped drastically. But its still not quite enough yet." Blood donation is a vital life-saving process but low awareness about the importance of blood donation can impact the safe and adequate supply of blood in hospitals. A research article published in the Update Dental College Journal (UpDCJ) found a positive attitude to blood donation among the donors in Bangladesh but a big disparity between male and female, as well as some knowledge gaps about blood donation. The study was conducted at the transfusion medicine department of National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital in Dhaka from January to December 2015 to assess awareness, knowledge and practice of blood donation among donors. The research article titled Awareness about blood donation among donors at a specialized tertiary level public hospital by Begum Sharifa Akhtar, Nihar Sultana, Saieda Farzana, Reshma Ahmed and Md Golam Rubby showed that age, gender, education level and marital status affected the blood donors' willingness to donate. Over 80% of the 150 donors participating in the research were male. As compared to males, this study finds female donors to be very few. The study identifies a low donor turnover and temporary deferral conditions like low haemoglobin values, low weight, and fear of pain as the reasons behind lower female participation in blood donation. The average age of the donors was 28.4 and the age range of the donors was 18-57 years. The study shows that just over half (56%) of donors had knowledge about the eligibility criteria of blood donation such as knowledge about the interval of blood donation and the age they can start donation. However, 47.3 % did not know the required haemoglobin level to donate blood and the volume of blood in each donation, indicating that more awareness needs to be delivered to the target groups. "[The] majority of the donors showed positive effects like a sense of satisfaction and were interested to donate blood regularly, which is a very positive approach. This study showed that most of the donors were aware about blood donation and they had a good attitude towards it," says Nihar Sultana, author of this research article. Sultana says that a clear, simple and consistent message should be delivered by using health education materials to the target groups for mass encouragement and awareness on this topic. "Media can play an important role. Creating opportunities for blood donations by conducting many blood donation camps may provide a solution for our blood demand," she adds. Immunotherapy for leukemia patients has been nothing short of a miracle. Now scientists hope to use that science and other forms of gene therapy to tackle three of the deadliest forms of cancer: glioblastoma (brain cancer), sarcoma (bone cancer) and ovarian cancer. Three scientists have received $1.3 million in critical funding from the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy (ACGT), the nation's only nonprofit dedicated exclusively to cell and gene therapies for cancer. These new grants will be used to study immunotherapy and virotherapy in the treatment of glioblastoma, sarcoma and ovarian cancer. "We have big hopes for these grants," said John Walter, CEO and president of ACGT. "ACGT was one of the first funders to support Dr. Carl June's work at the University of Pennsylvania in successfully treating leukemia with gene therapy when it was still deemed 'risky' science. The recent FDA approval of the first gene therapy treatment to come out of this research, Kymriah, validates the promise of this science. With these three new clinical investigator grants, we hope to see similar results with immunotherapy and virotherapy in treating hard-to-combat solid tumor cancers." The new grants are: Nori Kasahara, MD, PhD - Virotherapy for Glioblastoma Brain Cancer Co-Leader Viral Oncology Program Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Dr. Kasahara's research focuses on translational application of gene transfer technologies to cancer, transplantation and regenerative medicine. Dr. Kasahara will use his ACGT grant to advance a clinical trial for a virotherapy for glioblastoma. Using a modified retrovirus to deliver chemotherapy directly into cancer cells, these "suicide genes" continue to replicate to prevent recurrence. The work will take the experience in the lab and translate it to a patient clinical trial. Seth Pollack, M.D. - Immunotherapy for Sarcoma Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington Dr. Pollack's research is focused on developing novel immunotherapies for patients with advanced sarcoma, specifically synovial sarcoma (SS) and myxoid/round cell liposarcoma (MRCL). Dr. Pollack's ACGT grant will further his research by using immunotherapy to target this rare form of cancer that grows in connective tissue - cells that support other body tissues such as in bones, muscles, tendons, etc. The initial clinical trial will deploy two different types of genetically engineered T cells to target the cancer and to assess efficacy and safety. Lab Diagnostics & Automation eBook Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year. Download a copy today Daniel Powell, Jr., PhD -- Immunotherapy for Ovarian Cancer Director of Immunotherapy for Division of Gynecology University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Dr. Powell's research focuses on the development of innovative immunotherapeutic strategies, including adoptive immunotherapy, using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Dr. Powell will used his ACGT grant to enroll nine ovarian cancer patients in a new clinical trial. Immune system killer T cells will be developed outside the body and reinserted to establish an offense against the disease and a defense against recurrence. "ACGT's Clinical Investigator grants allow these scientists to advance their research from the laboratory to the bedside for patients in clinical trials, providing for an opportunity to see these treatments work in actual patients and hopefully save lives," noted Walter. "Our goal at ACGT is to truly make an impact on how cancer is treated through the use of gene and cell therapies so that one day, cancer will be a treatable and manageable disease." ACGT has now issued a total of 55 grants, including 19 clinical translation grants and 36 Young Investigator grants totaling more than $28 million. This is particularly exciting given ACGT's commitment to contributing 100 percent of donations directly to research. ACGT-funded work is also attracting increasing attention from the pharmaceutical industry, which is swiftly discovering the potential of cell and gene therapies. GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Heres why you can trust us. China is planning to invest tens of billions of dollars in the next few years to master artificial intelligence. A large part of Alibabas planned $15 billion per year in research and another $10 billion investment by 2020 in quantum computing center and other investments. Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent, are many AI experts and building new research centers. One of the AI startups is SenseTime, which was founded in 2014 and is already among the worlds most valuable AI startups. Pieces weighing up to 200 pounds of Chinas space station could make it to the surface when out-of-control 8.5-tonne laboratory breaks apart in the atmosphere. An 8.5-tonne Chinese space station has accelerated its out-of-control descent towards Earth and is expected to crash to the surface within a few months. The Tiangong-1 or Heavenly Palace lab was launched in 2011 and described as a potent political symbol of China, part of an ambitious scientific push to turn China into a space superpower. But in 2016, after months of speculation, Chinese officials confirmed they had lost control of the space station and it would crash to Earth in 2017 or 2018. Chinas space agency has since notified the UN that it expects Tiangong-1 to come down between October 2017 and April 2018. Although much of the craft is expected to burn up in the atmosphere, McDowell says some parts might still weigh up to 100kg when they crash into the Earths surface. You are clearly a super-user of NUVO.net. Thats a good thing. It means you depend on independent and local news sources to keep you informed. You are a smart person. Coincidentally, independent and local news sources depend on you too. Youve read 25 articles this month and now, wed like you to be join our mission and become a NUVO Supporter. For as little as $4 a month, you can keep us alive and fighting -- and can have unlimited access to the independent news that cant be found anywhere else. Avoid bus travel to Maharashtra: MSRTC indefinite strike begins India oi-Vicky By Vicky The MSRTC will go on strike starting today as their demands regarding the 7th Pay Commission were not addressed. The statewide strike called by six unions from the midnight of October 16 will go on after there was no solution despite a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday. This is now set to hit the Diwali 2017 operations which would affect lakhs of commuters in the state. Massive crowds are already languishing at state transport (ST) stands across regions, with people hoping to travel to their hometowns and villages for Diwali disappointed by the timing of this protest. Meanwhile, MSRTC workers' unions have stood firm over their stand of demanding that the 7th Pay Commission be implemented, salaries be given according to designation, and more. Hanumant Tatte, state general secretary of the MSRTC Workers Union, told Pune Mirror, "We had a detailed discussion with Fadnavis and state transport minister Diwakar Raote over our demands, but no concrete assurances were given to us about the required increase in our salaries. So, we will stay firm about our decision to go on an indefinite strike across Maharashtra from midnight on Monday onwards. The effects of the agitation will manifest from Tuesday morning, as we are confident that the maximum number of MSRTC workers will be participating in this strike." OneIndia News After Modis itinerary is leaked, MHA issues strict advisory to states India oi-Vicky By Vicky Recommended Video PM Modi's visit details leaked online, MHA issues serious advisory | Oneindia News The Union Home Ministry has directed state governments to strictly adhere to the Official Secrets Act (OSA) to maintain secrecy of classified documents and VVIP programmes. The advisory was issued after minute-to-minute details of a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi were found circulating on social media. This is the second time that such an advisory is being issued. The Ministry for Home Affairs issued the advisory following a visit made by Modi to Madhya Pradesh in August last year. Every details of the visit that was issued by the Special Protection Group was circulating on chat groups before the date of the visit. Modi had on August 9, 2016 visited the birthplace of freedom fighter Chandrashekhar Azad at Bhabra in Alirajpur district . The visit was held to commemorate the sacrifices of freedom fighters on the Quit India day and launch the 'Azadi 70 Saal-Yaad Karo Qurbani' programme. In January this year Chief Secretaries and Director Generals of all states and Union Territories were made aware of the "leakage". "During the Prime Minister's visit to Alrajpur, Madhya Pradesh on August 9, 201, the minute-to-minute programme of his visit issued by SPG was found circulating in the State on Whatsapp mobile application, breaching security instructions," the letter issued by MHA on January 13 states. The MHA advisory stated that, "Several instances of leakage of sensitive security documents of classified category circulating on social media have come to notice in the recent past. Such leakages of secret official documents of visit proramme have serious security implications and can lead to any untoward incidents." OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 6:36 [IST] AgustaWestland: After saying witness may have died, ED cites a little birdie to say he is alive AgustaWestland: How Michel moved the govt to disqualify competition early India oi-Vicky By Vicky James Christian Michel the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case is said to have visited India over a 100 times and during the early stages, he was deliberately trying to disqualify the competition, investigations have shown. Armed with a chargesheet, both the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate will now make a formal request to Britain to extradite Michel. An earlier request had been turned down by the UK since the details provided by India were incomplete. CBI sources say that Michel had visited India at least 100 times since 1993 and he had links with several persons in the government. His links in the government were so strong that he had possession of the confidential defence files which included documents relating to the cabinet committee on security. When the deal was being pushed there was competition from M/s Sikorsky. However Michel made an early visit to India where he deliberately tried to disqualify the competition. He managed to do so and AgustaWestland bagged the deal despite Sikorsky quoting a much lower price. Investigations show that Sikorsky was disqualified at the trial field itself. The unopened commercial bid that was submitted in February 2007 was to returned by the Defence Ministry. The CBI says Michel moved his contacts and ensured that the financial bids of Sikorsky were not opened. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 6:59 [IST] Amit Shah asks if CM will take moral responsibility of BJP-RSS workers being killed by CPM? India pti-PTI Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 17: BJP President Amit Shah hit out at Kerala's CPI(M)-led LDF over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsiblity for the "killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers." Addressing party workers at the Puthrikandam maidan here on the conclusion of the party's 15-day 'Jan Raksha' Yatra in the state, Shah alleged that the 13 workers were killed after the present government came to power in May last year. "I am asking the Kerala chief minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsiblity for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power." "CM saheb, if you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology," he said. Shah said if the Marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of independence, "they are mistaken." "I will like to tell CPI(M) that it is not possible," the BJP chief said. He also asked Vijayan whether people had given him the mandate for elimination of BJP/RSS workers in the state. Earlier, Shah walked with party workers for about two km from the Martyr's column at Palayam to Putharikandam maidan, near the famous Padmanabhaswamy temple. The BJP chief waved and acknowledged greetings from thousands of BJP workers as he joined the yatra led by state party president, Kummanam Rajasekharan. He also paid tributes to party workers who had lost their lives in political violence in the state before addressing the public meeting. Shah had flagged-off the yatra at Payyannur in Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers, on October 3. The padayatra was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. Earlier, Rajesekharan denied allegations by the ruling CPI(M) and opposition congress that the march was to create communal divisions in the society. He also said the yatra had received 'tremendous' support from all sections of the people. Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan said the yatra was to save' the people of the state. The padayatra had criss-crossed 11 districts in the state with four chief ministers, including Yogi Aditiyanath of Uttar Pradesh, senior party leaders and Union ministers taking part in the high-pitched campaign against the ruling LDF. Remarks by BJP leaders also kicked up controversies as the march progressed. Adityanath wanted Kerala to learn from UP's record in health care and Goa chief minister Manohar Parikkar alleged that Kerala was being ruled by 'rogues', triggering counter remarks from the CPI-M. Shah had skipped the march through Pinarayi, the chief minister's home town, in Kannur district, as he had to rush to Delhi for an important meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah had walked about seven km from Payyannur to Pilathara in the district during the rally. Representatives of the NDA partners in the state-- Tushar Vellapally of BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena), Tribal leader C K Janu of Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, P C Thomas of Kerala Congress (Thomas) were among those who attended the public meeting. PTI How UK is drilling down on FCRA licences in India Be extra vigilant during festival season: MHA asks states India pti-PTI New Delhi, Oct 17: In the wake of festival season, the Union Home Ministry has asked the state governments to be extra vigilant against attempts by terrorists and subversive elements to disrupt peace and ignite communal tension. In a country-wide advisory, the ministry asked all states to deploy additional forces in crowded places such as markets, railway stations, bus terminals and religious places to foil attempts by terrorists to carry out attacks. The state governments were also asked to be alert during the festivals against provocative sloganeering, especially near religious places, by subversive elements, the home ministry official said. However, the official said, there was no specific inputs about any plan by terrorists trying to disrupt peace anywhere in the country. While Dhanteras is celebrated today, Diwali and Bhai-Duj will be celebrated on Thursday and Saturday respectively. PTI BJP will win most seats, break all records in Gujarat: Amit Shah BJP asks Congress to break silence over Vadra's links with arms dealer India oi-PTI New Delhi, October 17: The BJP on Tuesday asked Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul to break their "silence" over media reports which claimed that Robert Vadra had "links" with fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was fielded by her party to attack the Congress leadership, said the silence of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul will be construed as acceptance of charges against Vadra. Citing the media report, Sitharaman alleged that a London house linked to Vadra was refurbished by Bhandari, who also made arrangements for his travel abroad. She also claimed that an amount of 7.5 lakh Swiss franc was deposited in a bank account of Bhandari and asked if there was a connection between this and the money spent on refurbishing the London house linked to Vadra. The minister, citing the media report, alleged that there were at least three transactions between them with "serious financial implications". Addressing a press conference, Sitharaman asked, "Why senior leadership of the Congress, including Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, is keeping a studied silence." Referring to Rahul Gandhi's frequent tweets, the minister wondered why he was keeping silent on this matter. She also claimed that the Congress leader was "copying" Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Asked what the CBI was doing as it was investigating Bhandari, she said this question should be put to the agency. The government is taking all steps to bring the absconding arms dealer back to India to face law, she added. Party spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said, "If you believe that Vadra is innocent and then why not file a defamation suit?... the silence shows guilt." Neither the Congress nor Vadra has reacted to the matter. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 17:12 [IST] 'BJP is nervous': Congress on Modi's dynasty remark India oi-Vikas By Vikas Hitting back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comment that the upcoming Gujarat Assembly elections is a fight between development and dynasty, the Congress on Monday said such remarks reflect that the "BJP leaders are nervous". Congress leader Sachin Pilot told news agency ANI that Rahul Gandhi's Gujarat visit has left the BJP baffled. "These statements are an outcome of the wave in Gujarat that has changed in favour of Congress. People of Gujarat would vote based on governance of the last five years...In spite of being in power since four years and the Prime Minister being from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), it means the BJP leaders are nervous," he said. [Development will trounce dynasty: PM Modi in Gujarat] Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday challenged the Congress to fight the elections on the plank of development, instead of "trying to manipulate the people." Mounting a fierce attack on the Congress, PM Modi said, the Congress party has always had a negative approach towards development of Gujarat. "Congress has never fought an election on development plank. They are scared a developed society won't vote for them. So, they mislead people, divide the society into communal and caste lines and get through the election," the prime minister said. Development' will defeat 'dynastic politics', the PM also said. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 10:21 [IST] Congress accuses EC of giving undue advantage to BJP India oi-Shreya By Shreya The protest was held under the leadership of Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee President Ajay Maken. Ajay Maken, along with senior leaders in the party has also submitted a memorandum to the Chief Election Commissioner Achal Kumar Joti asking, "Since 1998 (except in 2002-2003 due to riots in Gujarat) elections in both the states, Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh, have been held together. With th exception of 2002-2003 - soon after the Godhra riots - when the Gujarat Assembly was dissolved prematurely, the ECI has been announcing polls simultaneously in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. We wonder why has the ECI in deviation from its usual practice, has adopted special approach to not declare the Gujarat Elections along with the announcement of Himachal Pradesh Elections,?" In the memorandum, Ajay Maken also demanded, "The onus lies on the EC to ensure level playing field by announcing Gujarat Election dates and imposing the model code of conduct immediately," Slogans such as "Niyam mein herapheri kyon, Gujarat chunav mein deri kyon", "Loktantra ka ho samman, Gujarat chunav ka ho elaan", "Kanoon ka samman karo, Chunavon ka elaan karo", "Gujarat ki janta jaag rahi hai, BJP chunav se bhag rahi hai", "Modi haar se darta hai, Chunav ko aage karta hai", were raised in the protest. The Congress accused the EC of giving undue advantage to the BJP ahead of the Gujarat polls, so that the BJP gets ample time to "Influence the people of Gujarat by their false promises," OneIndia News On camera: Varanasi folks in panic as 'ghost in white' goes for a walk on rooftops Varanasi to light up for Deep Deepavali, a festival of lights that is not Diwali Dhanteras 2017: Kashi Annapurna temple opens for devotees India oi-Chennabasaveshwar By Chennabasaveshwar Dhanteras 2017 has begun with offering prayers to Goddess Annapurna in Varanasi. Devotees who arrive in Kashi from across India and abroad as well, first of all, take the blessings of Annapurna. The golden idol of the goddess is situated in the Annapurna temple near Kashi Vishwanath temple. Once a year, this temple is opened for devotees on Dhanteras. On October 17, the locks of the temple will be opened for the worship and the grand 'aarti'. The temple will be closed from 12 noon to 12.30 pm for the 'Bhoga Aarti'. After, the temple will be opened 11 o'clock in the night. In view of the crowd of lakhs of devotees, arrangements have been made after several rounds of talks with administration and temple management. A kilometre-long barricade has been erected to control the crowd. Mahant Rameshwar Puri Maharaj of the temple informed that the elderly and the physically-challenged will be given easy access to the Annapurna temple. Assistants have been deployed for the service. For VIPs, the time of darshan has been fixed at 5pm to 7pm. OneIndia News Man arrested after wife claims he married her with false identity A dream, a call and some courage: How a 15-year-old stopped her marriage In a first, two inmates of Institute of Mental Health tie the knot Man rapes 8-year-old to use her blood for removing obstacles to his marriage How to apply for Marriage Certificate: Latest update India oi-Chennabasaveshwar By Chennabasaveshwar A marriage certificate is an official statement that two people are married. It is a legal proof that you are married and the most vital document. In India, marriages can be registered either under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 or under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. In 2006, the Supreme Court made it compulsory to register the marriage for the women protection. Procedure to apply For Marriage Registration under the Hindu Act: You can apply at the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate on any working day in whose jurisdiction the husband or wife reside. Fill the Application form duly signed by both husband and wife. Verification of all the documents is carried out on the date of application and a day is fixed for the appointment and communicated to the parties for registration. On the said day, both parties, along with a Gazetted Officer who attended their marriage, need to be present before the ADM. The Certificate is issued on the same day. Documents Required Completely filled application form signed by both husband and wife Proof of Address- Voter ID/ Ration Card/ Passport, Driving License, Proof of Date of Birth of both husband and wife 2 passport sized photographs, 1 marriage photograph Separate Marriage Affidavits in prescribed format from Husband & Wife Aadhaar Card All documents must be self-attested Marriage Invitation Card For Online Registration: Click Here Select your district and continue. Fill in husband's details and choose "Registration of Marriage Certificate". Fill in the Marriage Certificate form and choose date of appointment. Click "Submit Application" You will be allotted a temporary number that will be found printed on the acknowledgement slip and application form is done. Take a printout of acknowledgement slip as well. Appointment In case of Hindu Marriage Act, you will get an appointment within 15 days of the online registration, but in case of Special Marriage Act, it may take upto 60 days. Witness Any person who has attended the wedding of the couple can be a witness and must have a PAN Card and a Proof of Residence. Linking Aadhaar with marriage certificate may be mandatory soon 'Tatkal' Marriage Certificate In April 2014, the Revenue Department of Delhi government introduced a 'tatkal' service ensuring a single-day authorisation of the marriage under which the registration process will be undertaken on priority. The service, which became operational on April 22, 2014 enables citizens to register their nuptials and get a certificate issued within 24 hours on payment of Rs. 10,000 as a fee. Click Here For the registration of marriage under Hindu Marriage Act Click Here For the registration of marriage under Special Marriage Act Benefits of Marriage Certificate If you are applying for a passport or opening a bank account after the wedding, then Marriage Certificate is required. Extremely helpful in obtaining visas for both husband and wife. As the foreign embassies in India as well as in countries outside India, do not recognize traditional marriages, the Marriage Certificate is mandatory for the couple to travel abroad using a spouse visa. Enables a spouse in claiming life insurance return or bank deposits in case of demise of the Insurer or depositor without any nominee. Fees Rs 100/- in case of Hindu Marriage Act Rs 150/- in case of Special Marriage Act Deposit the fees with the cashier of the District and attach the receipt with the application form. If you want to obtain a marriage certificate in Karnataka, then Click Here. OneIndia News Lack of development in J&K for decades was one of the reasons behind rise of terrorism: Rajnath Singh His contributions ignored: Why Rajnath Singh said Netaji was first PM of India Rajasthan: 250 police personnel refuse guard of honour to Rajnath Singh India oi-PTI More than 250 policemen, some of whom had to give the guard of honour to Home Minister Rajnath Singh during his visit to Jodhpur in Rajasthan, went on a day's mass leave over rumours that their pay scale would be reduced. Singh was on a brief visit to Jodhpur to inaugurate a regional training centre for the Intelligence Bureau (IB). "Over 250 policemen went on a day's mass leave on Monday. Some of them were part of the team which was to give the guard of honour to the Union home minister. As they refused to report on duty, the team was replaced with other policemen," Jodhpur police commissioner Ashok Rathore said. He said abstaining from duty without sanctioned leave was indiscipline and calls for disciplinary action. Additional Director General of Police M L Lathar too had to face a similar embarrassing situation as the policemen refused to give him the guard of honour when he visited the Jodhpur Police Commissionerate yesterday. In a separate incident, 10 policemen posted at Jaipur's Civil Lines Metro Station got their heads tonsured in protest yesterday after six of their colleagues were transferred to police lines for allegedly protesting over the pay cut rumour. The rumour had it that the constabulary's pay scale would be reduced from the existing Rs 24,000 to Rs 19,000 per month. Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria shot down the rumours, saying the government issued no order for reducing the salary of any employee, including police personnel. "Issues related to salary are pending with the Cabinet Committee. So, there should be no confusion," Kataria said. Rajasthan DGP Ajit Singh said any indiscipline would not be condoned. "There are rumours pertaining to salary cut issue. We have provided our view to the government. People should not act in a way that hurt the dignity of profession." The constabulary had been staging protests across the state for a for a fortnight over the alleged salary cut proposal. Their protest was previously limited only to boycotting the mess facility and wearing black ribbons during duty hours. A message on social media had gone viral ahead of the festive season which is believed to have led to the protests. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 17:41 [IST] Lack of development in J&K for decades was one of the reasons behind rise of terrorism: Rajnath Singh His contributions ignored: Why Rajnath Singh said Netaji was first PM of India Rajnath Singh praises BSF Jawans for protecting borders India pti-PTI Ferozepur, Oct 17: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh praised BSF jawans for guarding the border describing the force as the country's "formidable first wall of defence" as he urged them to take care of the people living on the country's frontiers. Addressing a gathering of officials and Jawans here, the Union minister emphasised that the BSF had the honour of being the largest border guarding force in the world. "It is doing exemplary work in protecting the Indo-Pak and Indo-Bangladesh borders," he said. He referred to the force as the country's formidable "first wall of defence", according to a release issued by the BSF here. The Home Minister said that people living in the border areas were strategic assets of the nation and appealed to the BSF personnel to take care of them. Earlier, Rajnath Singh and Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh paid floral tributes at the memorial of freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev. The Union Home Minister also inaugurated a newly constructed viewers' gallery at the Indo-Pakistan Joint Check Post at Hussaniwala here. The new gallery will be able to accommodate over 5,000 visitors. Built at a cost of Rs 16.39 crore, the foundation stone of this gallery was laid down by then home minister, P Chibambaram, on October 22, 2010. Everyday, a large number of people come to witness the retreat drill. BSF DG K K Sharma and senior functionaries of the Punjab government were present at the event. PTI Robert Vadra issue: Congress says get any probe done India pti-PTI Bengaluru, Oct 17: After the BJP's attack, the Congress said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should get "any investigation" done into any allegations against Robert Vadra, son-in-law of party chief Sonia Gandhi, to find out if there was any "wrong doing". Congress spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said Vadra has been going through "witch-hunting" for the last 41 months. He was talking to reporters here on a claim in a media report that Vadra had "links" with fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. "As far as any allegations against Robert Vadra are concerned, we will only say, Modiji has been in power for 41 months. "They have a government in Haryana and Rajasthan, and by all means, conduct any investigation that you choose, and come to a conclusion through a free and fair process of law of any wrong doing," Surjewala said. He said in "witch-hunting" of 41 months and multiple commissions of inquiries, the BJP has not arrived at a single conclusion of violation of any law, rule or regulation, either in Haryana and Rajasthan. "Allegations were levelled in these two states, based on which they came to power," the Congress spokesman added. A national news channel yesterday had claimed that "the absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari (had) booked business- class tickets for Vadra in 2012." Citing the media report, the BJP today asked Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul to break their "silence" on it. Addressing a press meet in New Delhi, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the silence of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul will be construed as acceptance of the charges against Vadra. Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani yesterday had targeted Rahul Gandhi with her tweet which said, "Eagerly awaiting Rahul Ji's poetic explanation for #VadraTicketGate." Meanwhile, Times Now and Republic news channels were not allowed by the Congress to cover Surjewala's press meet at the party office here. Asked why the two channels were barred from covering the press conference, Surjewala said he understood the sentiments of the media but journalism should "show the mirror of truth, not becoming mirror of BJP." He went on to add, "When you carry out pre-meditated, biased and fixed agenda as agents of the ruling party, then some semblance of journalism dies. Journalism is not about being about Congress or BJP, about being SP or JDU or any other political party. Journalism is about asking me difficult question." The Congress spokesman said, "Journalism is also asking me and telling me where I have gone wrong. Journalism is also about questioning, like you did to our Speaker (of Karnataka Assembly) and Chairman of the Legislative Council, and a correction was made by honorable Chief Minister (Siddaramaiah)." Surjewala was apparently referring to Siddaramaiah today issuing directions for curtailing funding of celebrations to mark the diamond jubilee of Vidhana Soudha, the seat of state legislature, amid reports about a proposal for extravagant celebrations which had raised a controversy. PTI Another propaganda busted, but will the anti-Hindu rhetoric in the West end Senior RSS worker shot dead by unidentified miscreants in Ludhiana India oi-Anusha Recommended Video RSS leader in Ludhiana Ravinder Gosai shot at during morning walk | Oneindia News A senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader in Ludhiana was shot dead on Tuesday morning. The deceased identified as Ravinder Gosai was shot at by unidentified miscreants while on his morning walk, according to local reports. Bikeborne miscreants opened fire at Gosai, a senior citizen and a volunteer with the RSS near his residence in Ludhiana's Kailash Nagar, according to initial reports. Two assailants shot at the RSS leader in his neck and his back shortly after he stepped out of his house with his dog for a walk. According to local reports, Gosai died on the spot while the assailants fled the spot. Gosai was the chief of Raghunath Nagar Mohan Shakha of RSS in Ludhiana. He was also an office bearer in the regional BJP unit. The police have registered a case and an investigation is underway. Motive of the assassination is still unclear. OneIndia News The joy of our lives: Sushma Swaraj's husband warm birthday wishes for late leader Remembering Sushma Swaraj on her death anniversary: Facts about Iron Lady of India Swaraj flags H1B visa issue before US Congressional delegation India oi-PTI New Delhi, October 17: During a meeting with a visiting US Congressional delegation, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday flagged the H1B visa issue as a "strong concern" and sought bipartisan support for it. The 9-member US congressional delegation from the house committee on science, space and technology is led by its chairman Lamar Smith, ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. "Swaraj flagged the issue of H1B visa as a strong concern and sought bipartisan Congressional support for the same," he said in a series of tweets During his recent visit to the US, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had also raised the issue during his meetings, and had said "those coming from India on H-1B visas are high value professionals, who contribute immensely to the US economy. They are not illegal economic immigrants, about whom there is concerns in the US. They come here legally." The US must decide appropriately while taking a decision on its visa policy, he had asserted. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations. It is the most sought after by Indian IT professionals. The minister also welcomed the strong desire of the delegation to strengthen cooperation in strategic, economic, science and technology, and space sectors She applauded the positive role of the US Congress in developing India-US strategic relations, Ravish Kumar tweeted. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 16:29 [IST] TN govt employees frustrated There were several demands that the employees raised. However the government did not go that extra mile while implementing the pay panel's recommendations. The biggest objection that the employees have been raising is that the government did not implement it retrospectively. 21 months arrears lost The biggest problem for the TN government employees is that they stand to now lose 21 months of arrears. They were hoping that it would be implemented from January 2016. However the implementation date is October 1 2017 which means the employees will all lose 21 months of arrears. TN employees to lose Rs 1 lakh The secondary grade teachers were to be granted a minimum salary of Rs 9300 and a maximum of Rs 34,800, with a grade pay of Rs 4200. But the government granted a minimum of only Rs 5200 and a maximum of only Rs 20,000 with a grade pay of Rs 2400. The case is similar with that of office assistants, block development officers and tahsildars as well. This would mean that these anomalies would lead to loses between Rs 48,000 and Rs 1 lakh a year. Will Stalin take up 7th Pay Commission cause Opposition leader M K Stalin has been protesting the manner in which the 7th Pay Commission for TN employees was implemented. He said that the employees were denied 21 months of arrears. He also said that the employees were not getting the minimum salaries recommended by the Central Government. There are also no proper hikes and perks such as HRA and medical allowances, he also said. For the TN employees the hope now lies in the High Court. The employees would inform the court about their problems and in case there is no solution, then there would be a state wide protest. Why Modis strategy of blaming Congress for all ills may backfire on BJP in Gujarat polls India oi-Oneindia By Oneindia Recommended Video Rahul Gandhi attacks PM Modi's Vikar model in Gujarat | Oneindia News Gandhinagar, Oct 17: We all know Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a great spin doctor when it comes to changing narrative regarding even the most controversial subjects like demonetisation, which he well demonstrated during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections earlier this year as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won handsomely in spite of just a few months after note ban was announced in November last year that left the entire country longing for cash flow. While the opposition parties thought that wiping out 86 per cent of country's cash would prove costly for the saffron party as small-time traders, farmers and daily wage earners suffered the most due to note ban, Modi told weary crowd (poor in rural areas) during election rallies that demonetisation was actually an attack on the rich and corrupt of the country. His comments not only elicited thunderous applause from the audience but it got converted into votes for the BJP to help the party come to power in UP, considered the most important electoral battleground in the country. Seven months after the Assembly election results of five states--UP, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur--were declared where Modi wave (except for Punjab) once again created its magic for the BJP, things are not looking so rosy for the saffron party as the country will shortly see Assembly elections in Himachal Pradesh on November 9 and Gujarat in December (the Election Commission is yet to declare dates for the Gujarat polls). Call it the latest slowdown experienced by the country's economy due to the twin blows of the demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST), steep hike in fuel prices, recent resurgence of otherwise pale Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi or a recent report in the news website The Wire, that a company run by BJP president Amit Shah's son Jay Shah saw massive increase in revenues after the BJP came to power at the Centre in 2014--the saffron party and its tallest leader, Modi, are definitely looking nervous. Perhaps that is why Modi during his speech at a rally in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, on Monday, instead of hailing the GST, decided to subtly admit its failure by blaming all parties, including the Congress (the PM's favourite punching bag on all occasions, especially the mother-son duo of party president Sonia Gandhi and VP Rahul) for its introduction without due planning. Modi, switching over from Hindi to Gujarati in his home turf, said that the decision to implement the reform (the GST) was not his alone, but of nearly 30 parties, especially the Congress, that were consulted and involved with the new tax regime. The PM understands well that the small-time traders and those involved in textile business (considered to be the core vote bank of the BJP) are mighty miffed with the introduction of the GST and the demonetisation, about which they protested too. So, he thought the GST fiasco needs to be discussed, but he smartly stayed away from taking the blame for it. Moreover, as recent as October 7, the BJP brought in a few GST-related relaxations aiming to woo back the urban voters of Gujarat. On Monday, Modi seemed to be visibly rattled by Rahul's recent successful rallies in Gujarat and thus decided to hit out at the "dynasty" by calling the Congress "anti-development". Even die-hard Modi supporters failed to understand why the PM decided to call the Congress "anti-Gujarati". The PM alleged that the Congress harboured "dwesh" (malice) towards Gujarat and Gujaratis as Rahul and his party colleagues often criticise Modi and the BJP. "Gujarat aur Gujaratiyon ke prati unka dwesh hai.... Aap Congress ko kabhi maaf nahi karna (They have malice towards Gujarat and Gujaratis.... Never pardon the Congress)," Modi said. Did Modi want to tell the public of Gujarat that if anyone who criticises him or the BJP is an anti-Gujarati? What about those within Gujarat like the Patils taking part in anti-BJP rallies or Dalits speaking out against Modi or traders rebelling against the demonetisation and the GST? Are they all anti-Gujarati, in spite of being from Gujarat? Like the "anti-national" sentiment whipped up by the BJP and right-wing groups since Modi became the PM of India in 2014, probably Modi is also trying to build the narrative of anti-Gujarati in his home state, the election of which his party has to win at any cost. The party's grand plan to win 150 seats in the 182-seat Gujarat Assembly looks rather unrealistic weighing all the current scenarios. Moreover, the PM, the man behind all election victories of the BJP since 2014, has to come up with something really smart to woo the voters of Gujarat, which by now, like a lot in the country, are tired by the same old attack of the saffron party against the Congress for all the ills of the country. As predicted by his critics, PM Modi did not dole out any sops on Monday for voters, but Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani announced zero percent interest loans for farmers. Sops or no sops, the Gujarat Assembly polls are all about the pride of the BJP and its main leader, Modi. The BJP has to win elections empathetically in its citadel, Gujarat, ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. So, what new the PM can bring to the table ahead of the Gujarat polls to win back the trust of every Gujarati would be something interesting for the entire nation to witness. OneIndia News Lord Ram statue not ok, but Mayawatis fine? India oi-Chennabasaveshwar By Chennabasaveshwar Chairman of Shia Waqf Board on Tuesday slammed opposition parties opposing Lord Ram's grand statue proposed by CM Yogi Adityanath. W. Rizvi, Chairman of Shia Waqf, toeing BJP's line said: "Taj Mahal can be symbol of love but not of worship,", he went on say that " apart from 1-2 most Mughals were 'aiyaash' (extravagant), Muslims don't consider them idols." He recalled political parties silence when Mayawati raised her own statue. "No one opposed when Mayawati built her own statues, don't understand why is there an issue over making Ram statue?" Rizvi further said, "Sad that Ram statue construction is being opposed, it's a good step as Ayodhya is center of Hindu heritage." Earlier, he welcomed the Adityanath government's move to build a 100-metre-high statue of Lord Ram on the banks of Saryu river in Ayodhya, claiming the land actually belonged to Shias and not the Sunni Waqf Board. The Shia Board is one of the parties in the appeals pending in the Supreme Court. OneIndia News Why were witnessing a mini-revolution of women against sexual abuse India oi-Oneindia By Oneindia Bengaluru, Oct 17: A few things have definitely changed in the last couple of days, although mostly in the sphere of social media--being initiated by educated women having access to a computer or a laptop or a smartphone and internet connectivity--nonetheless they are welcoming ones where victims of sexual harassment or assault or day today sexism from across the world are coming out in the open to speak out about their traumatic experiences. It all started after New York Times recently published an investigative report on Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, where a bevy of women, including Hollywood big names like Angelina Jolie and Gwyneth Paltrow, narrated in details how they were raped, sexually assaulted and intimidated by the movie mogul over the years. Before Weinstein many more powerful men, including another Hollywood well-known name Billy Cosby, were charged by several women, including minors, of raping and assaulting them, but apart from usual condemnation regarding such horrific sexual misconducts by arrogant men drunk with power, very little protest can be seen in a social environment where usually people prefer to remain silent on issues related to sexual harassment or assault. Finally, the great wall of silence surrounding sexual misconducts commitment by powerful men against gullible women (at times men too) has been shaken a bit. On Friday, we saw women across the world boycotting social media giant, Twitter, for a day to protest against online abuse (mostly sexual slurs and character assassination of female users) and intimidation by trending the hashtag, #WomenBoycottTwitter. From America to India, women tweeted why they were staying out from Twitter for a day on Friday, which otherwise is a brilliant platform to air views, share information and initiate debate on social and political issues. The protest was against patriarchal approach (something which has spilled over from our real world to the virtual domain) tinged with malicious intention to silence and maim women, with a view, who regularly face unimaginable hate and harassment (often threats of rape) because of their gender on social media. In response to the temporary suspension of actress Rose McGowan from Twitter (the company stated that the action was taken as the actress violated its service terms), users of the micro-blogging site started the hashtag #WomenBoycottTwitter to stand in solidarity with McGowan and boycotted the social media platform. The US actress McGowan has also publicly accused Weinstein of raping her. Thus on Friday, women globally (including many men and people from the LGBT community) stood in support of the hashtag--#WomenBoycottTwitter. out, Twitter. We support women who have been silenced for standing up against sexual violence. #WomenBoycottTwitter pic.twitter.com/vMHKtc750v SuperwomenScience (@SuperwomenSci) October 13, 2017 Back home in India, men like Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien has also extended his support to the campaign with a tweet. No tweets from me today starting 10 IST in solidarity with #WomenBoycottTwitter @twitter improve anti-women harassment policy.Back tomo Derek O'Brien (@quizderek) October 13, 2017 Overwhelmed by the response of boycott, Twitter has finally decided to make moves to protect victims and the vulnerable on its social media platform. Twitter co-founder and CEO Jack Dorsey created a thread to address the issue. "Today we saw voices silencing themselves and voices speaking out because we're *still* not doing enough," Dorsey tweeted. "We decided to take a more aggressive stance in our rules and how we enforce them. New rules around: unwanted sexual advances, non-consensual nudity, hate symbols, violent groups, and tweets that glorifies violence." The protesters against sexual harassment or assault seem to want more as on Monday again one more hashtag, #MeToo, trended. The trend was started by actress Alyssa Milano, who posted on Twitter that if all women who had experienced sexual assault or harassment wrote "Me Too" as a status, it would "give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem". If youve been sexually harassed or assaulted write me too as a reply to this tweet. pic.twitter.com/k2oeCiUf9n Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) October 15, 2017 Milano was right in fearing that the magnitude of sexual harassment is huge across the world. Thus women from various parts of the globe, including India, joined the latest campaign and came out about stories of harassment and agonies they suffered at the hands of their abusers. The best part of the campaign is once again, many men were part of it, who too faced rape and sexual abuse. One more positives of campaign likes the #WomenBoycottTwitter and #MeToo is that it questions victim-shaming (a common result of anyone speaking against sexual harassment and rape) by openly coming out about facing sexual crimes. The hashtag--#MeToo--was trending on Twitter on Tuesday also. While joining the trend many narrated their own ordeal, others were part of it to give support to victims of sexual harassment or abuse. btw, if you were somehow blind to just how many people have endured sexual harassment/assault & now you're amazed at the numbers saying #MeToo, remember that even with anonymity most folks will never say a word. If that doesn't make your soul cry, you probably don't have one. Jacob (@TryingNotToLurk) October 17, 2017 Many even questioned the "intention" behind the entire campaign. But the success of the campaign once again brings to light that with each tweet revealing a story about sexual harassment/assault/rape, we now know there is a male perpetrator behind such a sordid human saga. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 9:45 [IST] Why Taj Mahal will not be illuminated with tricolor lights this Independence Day Yogi snubs Som, set to visit Taj Mahal India oi-Vikas By Vikas Amid row over the Taj Mahal after BJP MLA Sangeet Som's comment, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will visit the 17th century mausoleum on October 26, said report. The chief minister is also likely to visit the Agra Fort and attend an event at the Taj Mahal. The decision to visit comes a day after controversy erupted over Som's remark that Taj Mahal was blot on Indian history. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday attempted to distance itself from Sangeet Som's comments on the Taj Mahal, dubbing them as his "individual opinion". The MLA from Sardhana had said that the Taj Mahal was built by 'traitors' and cannot be included in Indian history. When asked to comment on Som's remark, UP minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi on Monday said, "That may be his individual opinion. My chief minister and I have on record said that it's our cultural heritage. It's an international heritage site. We are proud that the Taj is situated in UP. It's a great tourist site and we are also converting Agra into a first-class city. It is a great asset. I will not comment on individual opinions, government's stand is clear." [Taj Mahal built by traitors, should not get place in history: BJP MLA] Earlier on Tuesday, Samajwadi Party leader Azan Khan said that all buildings constructed by pre-independence rulers should be demolished, including Parliament and the Rashtrapati Bhawan. [Taj row: Raze monuments reeking of pre-independence rulers, Azam Khan] BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao had said the party does not have any view on specific monuments and its members can hold whatever opinion they have. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 13:09 [IST] Several Afghans on Germany's evacuation list have died 13th batch of medical assistance to Afghanistan delivered by India Taliban bans women from parks and gyms in Afghanistan 32 killed, over 200 wounded in deadly twin bombing in Afghanistan International oi-Chennabasaveshwar By Chennabasaveshwar A suicide and gun attack on a police training centre on Tuesday in southeast Afghanistan has killed at least 32 people and wounded more than 200. Security officials have confirmed that Toryalai Abdyani, the police chief for Paktia province, was killed in Tuesday morning's deadly suicide bombing in Gardez City. According to Afghan media, the incident happened shortly after 8.30 am local time. Security officials said two vehicles were used in the attack - one truck bomb and one Humvee 'bomb' - on the police training college. Following the explosions, insurgents stormed the centre and by mid-day clashes were still ongoing. The victims include "women, students and police", Hedayatullah Hamidi, public health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province, told AFP. (More details are awaited) Israel won't tolerate Iran presence in Syria, warns Netanyahu International pti-PTI Jerusalem, Oct 17: Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned Iran that he will not tolerate an Iranian military presence in Syria. Netanyahu said his meeting with visiting Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu on Tuesday focused mostly on Iran's efforts to establish a presence next door. Netanyahu said that "Iran has to understand that Israel will not allow this." The meeting comes a day after Israel destroyed a Russian-made, anti-aircraft missile launcher that took aim at its planes. Israel has largely stayed out of the fighting in Syria but has carried out dozens of airstrikes on alleged weapons convoys bound for Lebanese militant Hezbollah group. It is also concerned that arch-enemy Iran will plant itself on Israel's doorstep. Israel and Russia have established a special mechanism to prevent friction between their air forces in Syria. Shoygu arrived in Tel Aviv on Monday for his first official visit to Israel. His trip had a rocky start, coming hours after the IDF bombed an anti-aircraft battery belonging to Russia's ally, Syria, after it had earlier fired an interceptor missile at an Israeli plane. PTI FCRA registration: No foreign funding clearance for 6,000 NGOs for now, says SC Not the issue, it is the development: How NGOs fund protests to defame India NGO Pratham USA raises USD 5 lacs for underprivileged chidren's education International pti-PTI Washington, Oct 17: Volunteer-driven non- governmental organisation, Pratham USA, has raised more than USD 500,000 this year towards providing quality education to underprivileged children in India. At its latest fundraiser in the Washington DC suburb of Virginia, Pratham raised USD 275,000 from about 360 guests. Actor R Madhavan made an impassioned plea with his keynote address underscoring the importance of tangible results when giving back. "Pratham is doing an extraordinary job in making a huge difference in the lives of people, especially children and women in India," Madhavan said. The people who attended the event were visibly moved by Nisha Sisodiya, a young woman from Rajasthan, who bravely told her story of how she overcame an abusive marriage to become a successful entrepreneur after discovering Pratham's vocational programme. Pratham provided her seed funding and mentorship to be able to launch her own beauty salon where she provides a livelihood for other women in the community. Pratham USA is a volunteer-driven organization with 14 chapters across the United States that raise awareness and mobilize financial resources for our work on the ground. PTI Steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal donates USD 25 million to Harvard University International pti-PTI Washington, October 17: With an aim to increase engagement with South Asian countries, including India, steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal has donated USD 25 million to the prestigious Harvard University. The donation will establish an endowed fund for the South Asia Institute at the university. The institute spearheads Harvard's engagement with South Asian countries, including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka as well as diaspora populations from these countries, the university said in a statement. As a result of the endowment from the Mittal Foundation, Harvard's South Asia Institute would be called as Lakshmi Mittal South Asia Institute at Harvard University, it said. Founded in 2003, the South Asia Initiative became a University-wide interdisciplinary institute in 2010 under the leadership of its current faculty director, Indian-American Tarun Khanna, the Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at Harvard Business School. "We are so grateful for the Mittal family's support and what it will enable us to learn and share across the sciences, social sciences, and the humanities and the many people and institutions it will allow us to engage," said Khanna. "International centers like the South Asia Institute at Harvard University serve as a vital conduit between the University and the world we study," said Harvard President Drew Faust. "The generous support from the Mittal family is a testament to both the important work being done by this community of scholars and students and the continuing impact it will have in the region," Faust added. South Asia has played a dynamic and influential role in the development of our world since the very first civilisations, said 67-year-old Mittal, chairman and CEO of ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel company. "Ensuring that we fully understand its history and unique dynamics is a critical enabler in helping to shape a successful future," he added. As someone who was born in India, the long-term prosperity of India and its neighbouring countries "matters a great deal to me and my family," Mittal told Harvard Gazette in an interview. "Harvard is one of the world's greatest learning institutions, with a unique ability to facilitate dialogue and drive thinking and progress," he said. The Mittal family has long supported educational endeavours and public policy development in India as a means of positioning the country and the region for future success, the university said. PTI UN says 582,000 Rohingya have crossed to Bangladesh since August 25 International pti-PTI Geneva, Oct 17: Some 582,000 Rohingya refugees have fled their homes in Myanmar and arrived in Bangladesh since late August, the United Nations said, warning that thousands more were stranded at the border. he UN said 582,000 members of the Rohingya community had crossed into Bangladesh since August 25, marking a jump of 45,000 from the 537,000 figure given at the weekend. Marixie Mercado, a spokeswoman for the UN children's agency, told reporters in Geneva though that the hike was not likely due to a sudden influx, but rather to improved access to some areas where many refugees had previously gone uncounted. The Rohingya are fleeing violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state, where the UN has accused troops of waging an ethnic cleansing campaign against them. The numbers have soared since August 25, when militant attacks on Myanmar's security forces in Rakhine sparked a major military backlash. UN refugee agency (UNHCR) spokesman Andrej Mahecic expressed deep concern over the "condition of thousands of new arrivals who are stranded near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border." "Since Sunday night, an estimated 10,000-15,000 Rohingya refugees have entered Bangladesh through the Anjuman Para border crossing point in Ukhia district in the country's south-east," he told reporters. He said many of them had chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed. "They finally fled when their villages were set on fire," he said. He said UNHCR staff had spoken with people who described walking for around a week to reach the Bangladesh border. Most are still squatting in paddy fields in Bangladesh, and were waiting for permission to move away from the border, he said. "UNHCR is advocating with the Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly-difficult conditions back home," Mahecic said. "Every minute counts, given the fragile conditions they're arriving in," he stressed. PTI 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 With 60 per cent women, children, elderly, Rohingyas cant be termed as terrorists: Bdesh International oi-Oneindia By Oneindia New Delhi, Oct 17: At a time when Rohingyas have come under the scanner of security agencies for their possible links with terror outfits, a senior official from Bangladesh stated that the refugees "can't be termed as terrorists". "60 per cent refugees (Rohingyas) are ladies, children and elderly. With such a huge population, they can't be termed as terrorists," Bangladesh's High Commissioner to India, Syed Muazzem Ali, told reporters at Foreign Correspondents' Club in the national capital on Monday. He stressed that it's necessary to resolve the Rohingya issue at the earliest as Bangladesh has given shelter to the refugees on the humanitarian grounds. "They're living in disturbing conditions and their number is much larger in our case. So we'll have to take humanitarian side," Ali said, adding that, "We want international community to help them to get back to their homes." 60% refugees are ladies,children&elderly. With huge population, can't call them terrorists: Syed Muazzem Ali, Bangladesh Envoy on #Rohingyas pic.twitter.com/cAzEqsyJnC ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2017 They're living in disturbing conditions&their number is much larger in our case. So we'll have to take humanitarian side: Bangladesh Envoy pic.twitter.com/XbfwVTBpzY ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2017 Ali pitched for a greater Indian role in containing the influx of Rohingya Muslims escaping violence in Myanmar, saying the issue may not be directly affecting India now, but it may have an impact in future. He warned the "fire in the neighbourhood" has the potential to engulf the entire region and it would be prudent for India to act in "mutual interest". "It is a fire in our neighbourhood and before it engulfs in the entire region it needs to be put out. They (the refugees) are vulnerable to all sorts of radicalisation and it is in our mutual advantage to work together," Ali stated. Responding to a question, he said New Delhi and Dhaka may not appear to be on the same page on the issue as Myanmar's Rakhine State, the epicentre of the refugee exodus, does not have a common border with India. "You are safe for now but how long will that be? It is in our common interest to act together. It may burn my house today, but it may surely have an impact in your house tomorrow," he said, while applauding India's role in sending relief for the refugees housed in a number of camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar area. He refused to comment on India's proposal to deport around 40,000 Rohingya refugees who are settled in camps across the country, saying it was a "matter of your country". The senior official called the Rakhine State a breeding ground of radicalisation owing to alleged atrocities on the Rohingya community and their festering anger. He suggested that reports of bodies of Hindu Rohingya people found in mass graves were an attempt by the Myanmar administration to "intentionally" drive a wedge between communities. "It is the inability of the Myanmarese authorities to recognise them (the Rohingya) as their own which is creating issues. The problem originated in Myanmar and needs to be resolved there," he said. After violence broke out in Rakhine State on August 25, more than 520,000 Rohingyas have reportedly left Myanmar and have taken shelter in neighbouring Bangladesh. Currently, an estimated 800,000 Rohingya refugees (in total) are staying in Bangladesh. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, October 17, 2017, 6:19 [IST] Casual Connect Returns to Kyiv Next Week Published October 17, 2017 by Ivan P Bringing together a number of tech and gaming industry experts, Casual Connect Kyiv will offer invaluable insights on the local and global levels. Casual Connect, the leading series of events promoting startups and technology, will be coming back to Kyiv, Ukraine, next week for the first time since 2013. Bringing together experts from some of the market leaders such as Facebook, Google, Amazon, Ubisoft, Huuuge Games, and many others, Casual Connect Kyiv represents an invaluable opportunity for everyone in the tech and gaming sector to gather insights and share on the experiences of successful business undertakings. Casinos Taking the Center Stage Casual Connect Kyiv, taking place from October 24 - 26, will place a special emphasis on the online gambling industry and its social sector in particular. The Casino track of the event will gather many industry experts to discuss general gaming topics as well as those specific to Kyiv and Ukraine. Adam Krejcik, one of the partners at Eilers & Krejcik Gaming, will set the tone for the track with his presentation on the social gaming industry in Q3 of 2017. His speech will be followed by the likes of Sergej Kochubej of NatGeo Wild Slots and Nik Vladimirov of GSN Games. Mr Vladimirov will focus on the hotbed of talent located in Ukraine and how to best utilize this vast resource. Within the Casino track, 2017 Casual Connect Kyiv will feature many interesting panels, such as the one focusing on how to get people to pay more in social slots by Guy Hassan of Old Man Productions. Apart from these industry-specific panels and presentations, there are also numerous other lectures focusing on more general aspects, such as increasing the visibility of one's app in the app store and creating true values within a company. High Level Networking Apart from the official part of the event, Casual Connect Kyiv will also offer some great networking opportunities, as is usually the case with these events. There will be two high level networking parties hosted during the event, giving everyone a chance to mingle, create new contacts, and potentially make new, mutually beneficial partnerships. Finally, those interested will have an opportunity to also attend Indie Prize Awards and Indie Prize Showcase, giving them a chance to see the most innovative, out-of-the-box gaming solutions by independent developers from more than 50 countries around the globe. From To The Point Analyses Part I -- Background It was in 1916, in the midst of World War I, that Britain and France (pitted against the Germans, Austrians and Ottoman Turks) made their infamous Sykes-Picot agreement. In grand imperial style, they used this agreement to divide up the Middle East between them. It was a daring move, considering that the war was at a stalemate and the two allies did not know if they were going to win the struggle. Nonetheless, they went ahead with the agreement and in doing so, made a number of decisions that continue to shape the region to this day. Besides bringing traditional European imperialism forward into the 20th century, what made Sykes-Picot infamous was the fact that it broke a significant previous promise made to the Arabs. By 1916 the Arabs had taken to the battlefield against the Turks. For their doing so, the British had promised to support the creation of a large Arab state. But this promise had always clashed with the imperial ambitions of Britain and France, and so, in the end, they secretly conspired to betray their non-Western ally. Among the eventual consequences of this betrayal, the "Arab state" was confined to what is, today, Saudi Arabia; Palestine (which originally was to be part of the Arab state) would become a "national home for the Jews"; Syria went to the French, and much of the rest of the region was given over to the British. The Sykes-Picot agreement allowed for one further change. It made possible a state for the Kurds -- a people who constituted the fourth largest ethnic group in the Middle East. This state, known as Kurdistan, was to be carved out of territory within the eventually defeated Ottoman Empire. This intent was publicly confirmed in the Treaty of Sevres in 1920. The Kurdish leaders, who by this time must have been aware of the Western powers' betrayal of the Arabs, therefore should not have been surprised when, despite the treaty, the British and French betrayed them as well. The 1923 Treaty of Lucerne amended the Treaty of Sevres, and sure enough, the state of Kurdistan was omitted. The lands that would have made up the Kurdish nation instead become parts of Turkey, Syria and Iraq. Thus, the Kurds remained stateless. However, they never gave up statehood as a goal. Now we can fast-forward to 20 March 2003, the date that President George W. Bush took the fateful step of invading Iraq. Bush had an array of flimsy excuses for doing this: Saddam Hussein's non-existent nuclear weapons, Saddam's alleged plot to assassinate Bush's father, the dream (really the nightmare) of forceable "regime change" as a way of making the Middle East safe for the U.S. and Israel, or perhaps just the cutting loose of neoconservative bellicosity. Whatever the president's depth of ignorance led him to anticipate, the invasion set loose forces that neither Bush, nor any subsequent U.S. president, has been able to control. Among these are the consequences that followed the falling apart of Iraq. Part II -- The Kurdish Issue Resurfaces Like the destruction of the Ottoman Empire at the end of World War I, the destruction of Iraq that resulted from the 2003 U.S. invasion opened up a Pandora's Box of potential territorial changes. Not the least of these was the possible creation of the state of Kurdistan. Like the Arabs in World War I, the Kurds became a fighting ally of the West in the aftermath of the invasion of Iraq and the subsequent Syrian civil war. The region's chaos allowed for the emergence of the "Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant" (aka ISIS, ISIL, and Daesh). ISIS turned out to be a grim and brutal manifestation of religious fanaticism run amok. Its growth threatened just about every state in the region, as well as the citizens of the European Union and the U.S. If stability was to eventually prevail, ISIS had to be defeated, and the Kurds played (and continue to play) a notable role in this fight. There is little doubt that one of their goals in doing so is to create favorable conditions for a Kurdish state. For all those powers (Turkey, Iran, Syria, Iraq) seeking to reestablish the status quo ante, the prospect of an independent Kurdish state is anathema. Each state has Kurdish minorities and is afraid that an independent Kurdistan, even one carved out of another state's territory, would lead to or exacerbate Kurdish insurgencies in their own countries. The possibility that such a state might instead cause a lessening of minority Kurdish restiveness through voluntary immigration seems not to have occurred to the leaders of Iran, Turkey and Syria. As Jonathan Cook has recently made clear, the question of Kurdish independence has been complicated by Israeli influence in this matter. The Israelis have long been keen on an independent Kurdistan not because, as some of their politicians disingenuously claim, the Kurds have a "moral right" to a state (so do the Palestinians). Rather, the Israelis have an undeclared but official policy aimed at "Balkanizing" the Arab states. They have been encouraging "sectarian and ethnic discord" in order to destabilize their neighbors. In other words, Israeli support of the Kurds is an effort to weaken primarily Iraq, and secondarily, Syria and Iran (Turkey is just "collateral damage" in this process). Part III -- Conclusion One can hardly blame the Kurds for taking help where they can get it -- in this case from Israel -- in a fight for independence that has been going on for centuries. Nonetheless, one can also understand that Israeli meddling seriously frightens the other states affected. Leaving aside the Israeli issue for a moment, the question that should guide policy here is: can Iraq be reestablished as a viable state? Putting the question more informally, in 2003 a rather stupid American president, working under the influence of Zionists, Iraqi nationalists bearing false witness, and witless neoconservatives, knocked the Iraqi Humpty Dumpty off its precarious wall. Can it be put back together again? The answer is, well, maybe -- but there seems to be only two ways to do this. One is a near-genocidal war waged by regional powers against the Kurds. Alternatively, Iraq might be resurrected if the Kurds are willing to settle for half a loaf in the form of being an autonomous part of a confederated state. Right now the future is uncertain. One has the impression that the Turks and Iraqis (whose forces assaulted the Kurdish claimed city of Kirkuk on 16 October 2017) are quite willing to try to solve the matter by prolonged war. This would be a big mistake. It would lead to an Iraq that may be technically united but in truth would be even weaker than it is now, and not really independent at all. Its northern region would probably be under the de facto control of Turkey and Iran, and the rest of the country would continue to be in a decentralized mess experiencing an ongoing sectarian civil war. On the other hand, a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish issue could lead to the stabilization of the rest of Iraq as a confederated state. Also, as part of a confederated Iraq, Kurdistan's autonomy can preclude an independent foreign policy, thus minimizing Israeli influence. Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). On October 16, Morgan Chalfant of The Hill reports, the US Supreme Court agreed to hear the Justice Department's appeal in Microsoft Corp. v. United States. The question before the court: Are search warrants issued by American courts valid abroad? In 2013, Microsoft refused to turn information from a customer's email account over to law enforcement pursuant to a warrant in a narcotics investigation. The information, Microsoft noted, was stored on a server in Ireland. Ireland, as you may have learned in elementary school, is neither one of the fifty states nor a US territory. It's a sovereign state with its own laws. US search warrants carry no weight there. A three-judge panel of the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit sided with Microsoft, and the full court denied the government's request for a rehearing. Apparently they learned geography as youngsters, too. US Attorney General Jeff Sessions, maybe not so much. But he does seem to have a perpetual burr under his fur about "national sovereignty." Sessions is on record criticizing both "illegal immigration" (under the US Constitution there's no such thing) and the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement as attacks on US sovereignty. So why is the Justice Department he leads seeking a declaration from the US Supreme Court that US search warrants override the sovereignty of Ireland? American exceptionalism much? Hopefully the court will uphold the Second Circuit's decision and make it clear to Sessions that the whole border/sovereignty thing goes in both directions. But the tech sector and individuals who value their privacy shouldn't just sit still and hope for the best. What we need is a the continued erosion of "national" borders and the perfection of individual borders that are, as a practical workaday matter, mostly impenetrable to people like Jeff Sessions. While the former may take some time yet, the latter are already partially available and the unavailable part represents opportunity for reasonably entrepreneurial "sovereign states." The available part, as you might guess, consists of strong encryption. The sooner Microsoft and other email and data storage providers implement well-crafted end-to-end encryption for their users -- encryption the providers do not hold the keys to -- the sooner the data in question will become useless to the Jeff Sessionses of the world. "Oh, you have a warrant? OK, fine, here's what you asked for. Good luck reading it." The unavailable part consists of (hopefully more than one) "data haven" states: Countries whose governments are willing to write strong data privacy and freedom protections into their laws, believably commit to sticking with those protections, then stand back and watch as Microsoft, Google, Facebook, et al. build huge data centers and perhaps even decide to re-domicile themselves (presumably paying lots and lots of taxes in both cases). Sometimes the Supreme Court gets things right, but it's definitely an imperfect and untrustworthy vessel to entrust with the protection of our privacy and our rights. Better to take those rights into our own hands with encryption, and decentralize their protection across friendly sovereignties. Korean War Veterans Memorial (Image by Ron Cogswell) Details DMCA [This is the First article in a series, "Return to South Korea". For the second article click here.] Tomorrow I will be boarding an airplane at Tampa International Airport for a flight to Inchon, South Korea. Although I have never been to Korea, I was able to maneuver a slot in the reunion of Korea veterans for the commemoration of the 100thanniversary of the 2nd Infantry Division, which was formed in 1917 during the First World War. The 2nd has a long history of being on the front line during the wars of the 20th century, and is now stationed in South Korea. I will be part of a group that is the guest of the Republic of Korea. I am going there to learn, experience Korea today and I hope to pass on some of that to readers of my diary. With the events of the past few months and the threat of another war in Korea, I have been studying the history of the Korean War of 1950 to 1953. As I dug into it I became fascinated with how much I did not know and how much there is to learn. The Korean War was an epoch war that had a major role in the future foreign policies of the US, and the domestic impact those policies have had on all of our lives. The war was a turning point that has evolved into where we are today. For sure it was the path setter of the direction of the Cold War between the US, China and Russia. The Cold War took a hiatus in 1991, but as many argue is now on again as the Cold War Redux. So far my return to Korea is the remembering of childhood memories. In 1950 I was six years old. Few people had television then, so we got the news from newspapers, radio and newsreels shown in theaters before the main attraction. Current events were not discussed much in my world then, and what I heard about the Korean War was not very meaningful. What I do remember about the war was that my mother was very worried that her brother might be sent there. All I knew about war was what I saw at the movies and that looked pretty exciting. Soon we got a TV and the war came alive in our living room. As the next few years passed, I became aware of the shock at the battles the U.S. lost, and the shame and anger of American prisoners of war being put on displayed. I had no reason to question that the "communists" were brainwashing the prisoners. How could this be happening to an America that I was told "never lost a war because God was on our side"? My older brother explained to me that we were fighting in Korea because of communist aggression, that the United Nations agreed with the US, and that the Russians had "stupidly" been boycotting the U.N. when the vote was taken to organize a police action with the US leading it. I remember one day my father came home outraged that Truman had fired McArthur, who I was told was a famous war hero. How all this could be happening, I wondered. Later my mother "Liked Ike" because Eisenhower promised to end the war if he was elected president. It seemed that everybody just wanted it over. Then one day it was. American POW's were released. More outrage and shame that some of the Americans deserted and refused to come home. Finally the Korean War faded and was forgotten. It wasn't until 1963 when I joined the Army that the Korean War had meaning to me again. In boot camp many of our instructors were combat hardened in Korea. They said we were men and they were teaching us the lessons they learned. I remember those lessons, the 20 mile marches and cleaning machine guns at 0200 in the morning. They were serious, and they told us we better be too, because one day there would be another war. I was quite impressed. So now I am returning to Korea. I think it is going to be an epoch event for me now at the age of 73. Yet, I am trying not to have any expectations. In the next few weeks the historical places I have been reading about will come alive. I will be landing at Incheon where McArthur pulled off his amphibious landing that turned defeat into a pushback of the North Koreans and a breakout of beleaguered US soldiers from Pusan where they were barely hanging on. In the next few days our group will be heading for the 38th, the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) northeast of Seoul. The schedule says we will spend a few days touring the battlegrounds. Then work our way south to Seoul. The rest I will let myself be surprised and savor it. [Here is a fantastic documentary of the Korean War on YouTube, part 1 of a 3 part history of the Korean War: Modern Warfare. All three parts are available on YouTube. Those that subscribe to Amazon "Prime" can see it in its entirety without interruption.] From Reader Supported News I was in a terrible traffic accident two weeks ago. I was on a Vespa scooter driving up Connecticut Avenue in Washington, DC, when the driver of the car in front of me slammed on his brakes for no reason. There was nobody in front of him and the lane was completely clear. I had no idea why he did it. I hit my brakes and swerved left to avoid him, but I clipped the left end of his bumper and went over the handlebars, landing on my shoulder. I fractured my spine, broke six ribs, and broke my clavicle. The driver, meanwhile, continued driving to the end of the block, pulled over, and sat in his car. He never got out to see if I was injured. He just sat there and waited for the cops to arrive. Two pedestrians came to my aid, with one calling 911 and the other asking me questions like, "Do you know your name? Do you know what year it is? Do you know what happened?" Finally, an ambulance came, along with the fire department and a uniformed police officer. As I was being loaded into the ambulance, I saw the cop talking to the driver of the car I hit. I spent the next six days in George Washington University Hospital. A few days into that stay, a friend called me to say that an article about the accident had appeared in Newsweek. The article said that I had "questions" about the accident and that maybe it had indeed not been an accident. I actually did have questions about it. The article said that there was no police report, and when the Newsweek reporter asked the police department for one, he was told that there was no record of any accident having taken place. A witness added that after I was loaded into the ambulance, the cop just told the driver of the car to leave. Just drive away. Was this a Michael Hastings-type incident? I didn't know. But it wasn't. It was just a traffic accident. Newsweek later updated its article to say that a bus had suddenly pulled out from the curb lane into the driving lane and the driver had hit his brakes to avoid hitting the bus. He didn't see that I was behind him. A few days into my hospital stay, I gave an interview to a Greek television station. The interviewer asked what had happened, and I told him that I thought it was just a simple traffic accident. He asked if I had considered the idea that perhaps it was a set-up. I replied that, sure, it had crossed my mind. But there were so many moving parts in such a scenario that it just seemed to be too complicated to pull off. Besides, despite the severity of my injuries, I was only going five miles per hour, according to the fire department. But why, the reporter asked, had the police told the car's driver to drive away? Why was there no police report? Could this have been something more sinister? I knew from my many years in the Intelligence Community that employees of several different governmental agencies carry what is euphemistically called a "get out of jail free" card. If you are on some sort of secret mission inside the United States and you get wrapped up in something that requires the intervention of law enforcement, you hand the cop your "get out of jail free" card, he calls a number on the card, the person who answers confirms that you're on sensitive government business, and he asks that the cop send you on your way. This was probably what happened, I said. It was probably just an accident. Still, the reporter pressed, "You've been outspoken about the existence of the Deep State. Isn't it possible, after all you've said about the CIA, torture, human rights, and such over the years that this was something more ominous? A message, perhaps?" I have to admit that he got me on that one. Deep down, I still think it was an accident. But when the Attorney General of the United States tells a U.S. senator, with a completely straight face in an open Congressional hearing, that the president can have an American citizen assassinated on U.S. soil without benefit of a trial, it gives one pause. I didn't want to acknowledge it, but maybe there was something more to this than I was willing to admit to myself. And that leads to a far more important issue than John Kiriakou's traffic accident. Where is the accountability for the Deep State? When Congress does not exercise its constitutionally-mandated oversight, who is responsible for protecting Americans from their government? To whom do those secretive governmental agencies report, if not to Congress? Thanks to the revelations of Ed Snowden, Chelsea Manning, Tom Drake, and others, we know that the Deep State is real. It's ominous. It's a threat to our democracy. We have to demand accountability through our elected officials. We have to keep talking about these issues, writing about them, marching to draw attention to them, and demanding that our Congressional representatives do what we say. Without it, the country is doomed and we're all in danger, even from a simple "traffic accident." Reader Supported News is the Publication of Origin for this work. Permission to republish is freely granted with credit and a link back to Reader Supported News. Palestinian lady arrives home finds Jewish settlers have stolen her house (Image by YouTube, Channel: Nizar Ismal) Details DMCA At first glance, the decision last week by the Trump administration, followed immediately by Israel, to quit the United Nation's cultural agency seems strange. Why penalize a body that promotes clean water, literacy, heritage preservation and women's rights? Washington's claim that the UN's Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) is biased against Israel obscures the real crimes the agency has committed in US eyes. The first is that in 2011 Unesco became the first UN agency to accept Palestine as a member. That set the Palestinians on the path to upgrading their status at the General Assembly a year later. It should be recalled that in 1993, as Israel and the Palestinians signed the Oslo accords on the White House lawn, the watching world assumed the aim was to create a Palestinian state. But it seems most US politicians never received that memo. Under pressure from Israel's powerful lobbyists, the US Congress hurriedly passed legislation to preempt the peace process. One such law compels the United States to cancel funding to any UN body that admits the Palestinians. Six years on, the US is $550 million in arrears and without voting rights at Unesco. Its departure is little more than a formality. The agency's second crime relates to its role selecting world heritage sites. That power has proved more than an irritant to Israel and the US. The occupied territories, supposedly the locus of a future Palestinian state, are packed with such sites. Hellenistic, Roman, Jewish, Christian and Muslim relics promise not only the economic rewards of tourism but also the chance to control the historic narrative. Israeli archaeologists, effectively the occupation's scientific wing, are chiefly interested in excavating, preserving and highlighting Jewish layers of the Holy Land's past. Those ties have then been used to justify driving out Palestinians and building Jewish settlements. Unesco, by contrast, values all of the region's heritage, and aims to protect the rights of living Palestinians, not just the ruins of long-dead civilizations. Nowhere has the difference in agendas proved starker than in occupied Hebron, where tens of thousands of Palestinians live under the boot of a few hundred Jewish settlers and the soldiers who watch over them. In July, Unesco enraged Israel and the US by listing Hebron as one of a handful of world heritage sites "in danger." Israel called the resolution "fake history." The third crime is the priority Unesco gives to the Palestinian names of heritage sites under belligerent occupation. Much hangs on how sites are identified, as Israel understands. Names influence the collective memory, giving meaning and significance to places. The Israeli historian Ilan Pappe has coined the term "memoricide" for Israel's erasure of most traces of the Palestinians' past after it dispossessed them of four-fifths of their homeland in 1948 -- what Palestinians term their Nakba, or Catastrophe. Israel did more than just raze 500 Palestinian towns and villages. In their place it planted new Jewish communities with Hebracaised names intended to usurp the former Arabic names. Saffuriya became Tzipori; Hittin was supplanted by Hittim; Muyjadil was transformed into Migdal. 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. "Tell Me How This Ends?" David Petraeus Finally Answers His Own Question By Tom Engelhardt It took 14 years, but now we have an answer. It was March 2003, the invasion of Iraq was underway, and Major General David Petraeus was in command of the 101st Airborne Division heading for the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. Rick Atkinson, Washington Post journalist and military historian, was accompanying him. Six days into a lightning campaign, his division suddenly found itself stopped 30 miles southwest of the city of Najaf by terrible weather, including a blinding dust storm, and the unexpectedly "fanatical" attacks of Iraqi irregulars. At that moment, Atkinson reported, "[Petraeus] hooked his thumbs into his flak vest and adjusted the weight on his shoulders. 'Tell me how this ends,' he said. 'Eight years and eight divisions?' The allusion was to advice supposedly given the White House in the early 1950s by a senior Army strategist upon being asked what it would take to prop up French forces in South Vietnam. Petraeus's grin suggested the comment was more droll quip than historical assertion." Certainly, Petraeus knew his history when it came to American interventions in distant lands. He had entered West Point just as the American war in Vietnam was beginning to wind down and did his doctoral dissertation at Princeton in 1987 on that conflict ("The American Military and the Lessons of Vietnam: A Study of Military Influence and the Use of Force in the Post-Vietnam Era"). In it, he wrote, "Vietnam cost the military dearly. It left America's military leaders confounded, dismayed, and discouraged. Even worse, it devastated the armed forces, robbing them of dignity, money, and qualified people for a decade... Vietnam was an extremely painful reminder that when it comes to intervention, time and patience are not American virtues in abundant supply." So no wonder he was well acquainted with that 1954 exchange between President Dwight D. Eisenhower and former Korean War commander General Matthew Ridgeway about the French war in Vietnam. Perhaps, the "droll quip" aspect of his comment lay in his knowledge of just how badly Ridgeway underestimated both the years and the troop numbers that the American version of that war would eat up before it, too, ended in disaster and in a military as riddled with protest and as close to collapse as was imaginable for an American force of our era. In his thesis, Petraeus called for the military high command to be granted a far freer hand in whatever interventions the future held. In that sense, in 1987, he was already mainlining into a twenty-first-century world in which the U.S. military continues to get everything it wants (and more) as it fights its wars without having to deal with either an obstreperous citizen army or too many politicians trying to impose their will on its actions. And by the way, though his Najaf comments have regularly been cited as if they were sui generis, as the Ridgeway reference indicates, he was hardly the first American military commander or political figure to appropriate Joan of Arc's question in Bernard Shaw's play Saint Joan: "How long, oh Lord, how long?" As Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Halberstam recounted in his history of the Vietnam years, The Best and the Brightest, for instance, President Lyndon Johnson turned to Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Earle Wheeler in a June 1965 meeting and asked of the war in Vietnam, "What do you think it will take to do the job?" Wheeler's answer echoed Ridgeway's 11 years earlier, though in the escalatory mode that was typical of Vietnam: "It all depends on what your definition of the job is, Mr. President. If you intend to drive the last Vietcong out of Vietnam it will take seven hundred, eight hundred thousand, a million men and about seven years. But if your definition of the job is to prevent the Communists from taking over the country, that is, stopping them from doing it, then you're talking about different gradations and different levels. So tell us what the job is and we'll answer it." A Generational Approach to America's Wars Not so long after that moment on the outskirts of Najaf, the 101st Airborne made its way to Baghdad just as the burning and looting began, and that would only be the prologue to David Petraeus's war, to his version of eight years and eight divisions. When an insurgency (actually several) broke out in Iraq, he would be dispatched to the northern city of Mosul (now a pile of rubble after its 2017 "liberation" from the Islamic State in Washington's third Iraq War). There, he would first experiment with bringing back from the Vietnam experience the very strategy the U.S. military had hoped to be rid of forever: "counterinsurgency," or the winning of what in that war had regularly been called "hearts and minds." In 2004, Newsweek was already hailing him on its cover with the dramatic question: "Can This Man Save Iraq?" (Four months after Petraeus ended his stint in that city, the police chief he had trained there went over to the insurgents and it became a stronghold for them.) By the time the occupation of Iraq turned into a full-scale disaster, he was back at Fort Leavenworth running the U.S. Army's Combined Arms Center. During that period, he and another officer, Marine Lieutenant General James Mattis -- does that name ring any bells? -- joined forces to oversee the development and publication of Field Service Manual 3-24, Counterinsurgency Operations. It would be the first official counterinsurgency (COIN) how-to book the military had produced since the Vietnam years. In the process, he became "the world's leading expert in counterinsurgency warfare." He would famously return to Iraq in 2007, that manual in hand, with five brigades, or 20,000 U.S. troops, for what would become known as "the surge," or "the new way forward," an attempt to bail the Bush administration out of its disastrous occupation of the country. His counterinsurgency operations would, like the initial invasion, be hailed by experts and pundits in Washington (including Petraeus himself) as a marvel and a success of the first order, as a true turning point in Iraq and in the war on terror. A decade later, with America's third Iraq War ongoing, you could be excused for viewing the "successes" of that surge somewhat differently. 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). This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. Karen Greenberg first arrived at TomDispatch in January 2005 in tandem with defense attorney Joshua Dratel. Their book The Torture Papers was just being published and they were asking questions. Thirty-seven of them, to be exact, all pointed, all uncomfortable, all directed at then-Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, all focused on the Bush administration's torture policies and what, after a visit to Guantanamo in 2007, Greenberg would term "the jewel-in-the-crown of American offshore prisons or, to be Pentagon-accurate, 'detention facilities.'" Here were just four of those questions: "Do you fear review by the courts? Why do you dismiss the role of the courts and ordinary law enforcement in eliciting information from prisoners in the war on terror? Isn't it possible that the art of interrogation, practiced by law enforcement officers and professional lawyers, might, in fact, elicit more important and more accurate information in assessing the motives, networks, and plans of terrorists than, say, dogs at Guantanamo Bay or waterboarding in some CIA holding area? What exactly was it you felt it was so important to keep secret from the courts?" Almost 13 years later, Guantanamo remains open. It is still officially a "detention facility," not a "prison," and those held within it still aren't "prisoners" -- you weren't even allowed to use that word there in 2007 -- but "enemy combatants," a category the Bush administration believed put them beyond all legal norms, American or international. As Greenberg reports today, the Trump administration has just classified its first American prisoner off the battlefields of Syria as an "enemy combatant." Gulp. And sadly, you already know just where our president, who praised torture to the heavens during campaign 2016 (while threatening to "take out" the families of terrorists), is likely to go with this. It seems that we're heading back to the future, back to what Greenberg, in another piece, written a mere two and a half years ago, called "the Age of Barbarism Lite." Let her then bring you up to date, while the rest of us only hope that she won't be back 13 years from now to tell us that the latest American president is once again stashing "enemy combatants" at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Tom "Enemy Combatants" Again? Will Washington Never Learn? By Karen J. Greenberg Eight years ago, when I wrote a book on the first days of Guantanamo, The Least Worst Place: Guanta'namo's First 100 Days, I assumed that Gitmo would prove a grim anomaly in our history. Today, it seems as if that "detention facility" will have a far longer life than I ever imagined and that it, and everything it represents, will become a true, if grim, legacy of twenty-first-century America. It appears that we just can't escape the perpetual pendulum of the never-ending war on terror as it invariably swings away from the rule of law and the protections of the Constitution. Last month, worries that had initially surfaced during the presidential campaign of 2016 over Donald Trump's statements about restoring torture and expanding Guantanamo's population took on a new urgency. In mid-September, the administration acknowledged that it had captured an American in Syria. Though no facts about the detained individual have been revealed, including his name or any allegations against him, the Pentagon did confirm that he has been classified as an "enemy combatant," a vague and legally imprecise category. It was, however, one of the first building blocks that officials of George W. Bush's administration used to establish the notoriously lawless policies of that era, including Guantanamo, the CIA's "black sites," and of course "enhanced interrogation techniques." Placing terrorism suspects apprehended while fighting abroad in American custody is hardly unprecedented. The U.S. government has periodically captured citizen and non-citizen members of ISIS, and fighters from the Somali terrorist organization al-Shabaab, as well as from al-Qaeda-linked groups. To those who have followed such matters, however, the Trump administration's quick embrace of the term "enemy combatant" for the latest captive is an obvious red flag and so has elicited a chorus of concern from national security attorneys and experts, myself included. Our collective disquiet stems from grim memories of the extralegal terrorism policies the Bush administration institutionalized, especially the way the term "enemy combatant" helped free its officials and the presidency from many restraints, and from fears that those abandoned policies might have a second life in the Trump era. Guantanamo's Detainees What, then, is an enemy combatant? After all, memories fade and the government hasn't formally classified anyone in custody by that rubric since 2009. So here's a brief reminder. The term first made its appearance in the early months after 9/11. At that time, then-Deputy Assistant Attorney General John Yoo -- who gained infamy for redefining acts of torture as legal "techniques" in the interrogation of prisoners -- and others used "enemy combatant" to refer to those captured in what was then being called the Global War on Terror. Their fates, Yoo argued, lay outside the purview of either Congress or the courts. The president, and only the president, he claimed, had the power to decide what would happen to them. "As the president possess[es] the Commander-in-Chief and Executive powers alone," Yoo wrote at the time, "Congress cannot constitutionally restrict or regulate the president's decision to commence hostilities or to direct the military, once engaged. This would include not just battlefield tactics, but also the disposition of captured enemy combatants." The category, as used then, was meant to be sui generis and to bear no relation to "unlawful" or "lawful" enemy combatants, both granted legal protections under international law. Above all, the Bush version of enemy-combatant status was meant to exempt Washington's captives from any of the protections that would normally have been granted to prisoners of war. In practice, this opened the way for that era's offshore system of (in)justice at both the CIA's black sites and the prison camp at Guantanamo, which was set up in Cuba in order to evade the reach of either Congress or the federal court system. The captives President Bush and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld sent there beginning in January 2002 fell into that category. In keeping with the mood of the moment in Washington, the U.S. military personnel who received them were carefully cautioned never to refer to them as "prisoners," lest they then qualify for the legal protections guaranteed to prisoners of war. Within weeks, the population had grown to several hundred men, all labeled "alien enemy combatants," all deemed by Yoo and his superiors to lie outside the laws of war as well as those of the United States, and even outside military regulations. American citizens were excluded from detention there. Some were nonetheless labeled enemy combatants. One -- JosePadilla -- was arrested in the United States. Another -- Yaser Hamdi -- was initially brought to Gitmo after being captured in Afghanistan, only to be flown in the middle of the night to the United States as administration officials hoped to escape public attention for their mistake. Padilla had been born and raised in the United States; Hamdi had grown up in Saudi Arabia. To avoid the federal detention system, both would be held in a naval brig in South Carolina, deprived of access to lawyers, and detained without charge. For years, their lawyers tried to convince federal judges that keeping them in such circumstances was unconstitutional. Eventually, the Supreme Court weighed in, upholding Yoo's position on their classification as enemy combatants, but allowing them lawyers who could challenge the grounds for and conditions of their detention. Although the government defended the use of enemy combatant status for years, both Padilla and Hamdi were eventually -- after almost three years in Hamdi's case, three and a half for Padilla -- turned over to federal law enforcement. Never charged with a crime, Hamdi would be returned to Saudi Arabia, where he promptly renounced his U.S. citizenship, as the terms of his release required. Padilla was eventually charged in federal court and ultimately sentenced to 21 years in prison. 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). (Image by Egberto Willies) Details DMCA Donald Trump and Mitch McConnell appeared at the White House for a press conference after they had lunch. Trump took the opportunity to insult Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell as he aggrandized himself. Mitch McConnell gave an uncomfortable but very visibly pained smile after Trump implied that McConnell was on the take from the healthcare lobby. To many, it may seem shallow to concentrate what Trump did to McConnell in his answer to an important question. A reporter asked Trump what specifically did he want to do to the insurance and drug companies. The following reply was interesting. "So the insurance companies have made a fortune with Obamacare, an absolute fortune," said Trump. "As you know what I did with the cuts at the end which we're all going, you know, you're talking about hundreds of millions of dollars a month going right into the pockets of the insurance companies. And I'm very happy with what I did. And because of that people are talking now. Democrats are talking to the Republicans for a short-term taking care of what we will call health care; So that people can have good health care without big spikes. You would have had massive spikes. You already have. I mean every year the massive spikes to Obamacare have been ridiculous. As far as, and I didn't speak to Mitch about this today, but a priority of mine and you know that this is coming up, will be the cost of prescription drugs. We're going to get the costs way down, way down." Trump, then went at Mitch McConnell in a rather direct manner. He was speaking about the Washington Establishment. "And those drug companies," Trump said. "So you have the insurance companies in one case and the other case, actually with regard to both, you have the drug companies. They contribute massive amounts of money to political people. I don't know Mitch maybe even to you. But I have to tell you, they contribute massive amounts of money. Me I'm not interested in their money. I don't need their money. I will tell you. You have prescription drugs. You go to England. You go to various places, Canada. You go to many many countries and the same exact pill from the same company, the same box, the same everything is a tiny fraction of what it costs in the United States. We are going to get drug prices, prescription drug prices, way down. Because the world has taken advantage of us. The world has taken advantage of us." Of course, Trump does not talk about him being on the take throughout his life. He does not mention that his cabinet looks like Wall Street. Many Americans will see that jab as the outsider beating back a corrupt Washington on the take. This is a funny aside but one that will mean a lot to his followers. It will give him some cover when working with the evil Washington Establishment. I would not be surprised to see this in an ad. Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121 To remove advertising from OpEd News, please become a premium member "Rob Kall is a social media force of nature. Accessible, insightful and forward thinking. Bottom-Up provides the kind of cutting-edge and savvy thinking that will move anyone's business forward at an accelerating pace. Highly recommended" Jonathan Maberry, New York Times best-selling author, editor, and lecturer 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. In a recent article a leading progressive journalist describes how U.S. capitalism kills the soul of its citizenry. Truthdig-- https://www.truthdig.com/articles/diseases-of-despair/ Our very culture seems to have degraded to the point of, as he put it, morbidity. Other respected journalists have made similar observations. As a sociology professor active in the community I applaud this focus, but suggest that a significant source of apparent cultural apathy still remains substantially un-addressed. As Americans accurately perceive economic, racial and ethnic inequality to harden and grow, most also assume that their powers-that-be wield more physical power than any opposition imaginable can stand up to. This assumption is based on what they learned from parents, in public school, often in college, and through steady indoctrination by media, television and film. Most people also gather that Western Empire in general, led by the United States, privileges people defined as White. Among many scholars and scientists, however, the invulnerability of Imperial Haves to effective blowback from global Have-Nots has become a tentative hypothesis. Equally tentative is the hypothesis that white citizens who don't (seriously) interfere with imperial goals can avoid devastation. So long as the public shares this view of reality, citizens are not likely to embrace the kind of activism capable of effective response when these goals place all at great risk. Campaigning on behalf of "others" treated unfairly will always fall short of pushing back in a fashion that may place oneself and one's family physically at risk. From this perspective, Noam Chomsky's insistence that activists must learn history is powerfully insightful. Only when it becomes clear that white privilege constitutes an illusion supported by lies, that there is no real choice-of-sides available, that one's own and one's children's physical well-being are fully at stake, can a truly strong activism emerge. When citizens perceive that current trends lead not to a world of awful stability for the chosen, but to a world in chaos for all in the near, not the distant future, much of the psychological malaise Chris Hedges and others describe will surely wane. This regularly occurs among students in my classes. When playing it safe appears to be illusory much of their apathy evaporates. I propose, therefore, that the question of public apathy itself be treated as hypothetical. If people come to understand that current trends of foreign and domestic policy constitute a global threat no less ominous than any they perceive or can imagine, will the public be incapable of responding adaptively? Or are citizens simply not yet sufficiently aware of trends and consequences that might alarm them into action? And if so, given the acute awareness of many scholars and scientists, what explains this vacuum of information? President Putin With King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia. (Image by The Kremlin) Details DMCA A Russian news agency reported that Maksim Stanislavovich Oreshkin, the Minister for Economic Development, in a brief statement described King Salman's visit to Moscow a highly productive trip both economically and strategically. He explained that the volume of signed agreements (publicized and non-publicized) between Russia and Saudi Arabia were more than double of the damage caused by US and EU sanctions against Russia. "It is interesting that today, the closest allies of the United States do not take into account the interests of this country, and this fact is contrary to the illusions of the senior American officials," he added. INTRODUCTION: The FDA is a contumacious agency serving above the law, and lying to the public knowing full well aspartame is a chemical poison and never proven safe. Their own chief scientist during the aspartame investigation, Dr. Adrian Gross, testified against his own FDA on 8/1/85, Senate, stating that beyond a shadow of a doubt aspartame caused cancer and violated the Delaney Amendment. He ended by saying if the FDA violates its own laws who is left to protect the public? So the FDA today ignores the fact that they themselves tried to have the company indicted for fraud and had evidence that aspartame triggered everything from cancer to seizures by industry's own studies. They actually revoked the petition for approval and the only reason its on the market because Don Rumsfeld now working for G. D. Searle to get aspartame on the market stated he would "call in his markers" and did. FDA says they will do something if science becomes available, yet at the same time ignoring independent scientific peer reviewed research from recent studies proving everything to precipitating diabetes, dementia, strokes, metabolic syndrome, myocardial infarctions, obesity, premature births and cancer for starters. How do they get around the Trocho Study showing the formaldehyde converted from the free methyl alcohol embalms living tissue and damages DNA? To ask the question is to answer it - like all the other damning studies they ignore it. With 30 years of independent damning studies and never ending complaints they approve Advantame, another aspartame product. It appears from their information on web that its unlabeled and has no PKU warning. This means they could add it to regular soft drinks and you wouldn't even know it. Who trusts Coke and Pepsi as they were the head of the National SoftDrink Assn (now American Beverage) who wrote a 33 page protest to the FDA about aspartame dangers, and then turned around and lobbied for the product. But here is the most heinous crime of the FDA - they sealed the teratology studies that showed such things as cleft palate, spina bifida and neural tube defects - horrible birth defects. I was asked to find them by Jerome Bressler who was the famous compliance officer who authored the Bressler Report having to do with the fraud such as excising brain tumors, putting the rats back in the study, and when they died resurrecting them on paper. After adding these records back to the Bressler Report: and giving them to Bressler, I also gave them to Dr. Monte who finally got FDA to now release 4 more studies. He wrote the book "While Science Sleeps: A Sweetener Kills" - www.whilesciencesleeps.com Read the last chapter free on aspartame and autism. So consider the FDA got away with sealing the teratology studies and not putting a birth defect warning on aspartame allowing autism and other horrible birth defects to become epidemic throughout the world. Now being exposed they released 4 studies to Dr. Monte that they had all along. Yet they approve Advantame, and it doesn't matter how much aspartame - its cumulative. They know it will cause birth defects. It's a heinous, genocidal crime. http://www.rense.com/general/asp.htm Notice it violates the Federal Genocide law. It all makes me think of a book called "The Tainted Truth: The Manipulation of Fact in America" by Cynthia Crossen. The road to hell, she says, was paved with the flood of corporate research dollars that eagerly filled gaps left by slashed government research funding. In 1981, industry contributed $292 million to colleges and universities for research; by 1991 that figure had burgeoned to over $2.1 billion. The aspartame industry has its own front research organization called ILSI International Life Sciences Institute . Today FDA gets over half its funding from BigPharma and confesses they are broken and corrupt. They continue to allow aspartame to be added to drugs knowing it damages the mitochondria and interacts. Will we ever really know how many millions are dying from the interaction and sudden cardiac death triggered by this insidious poison. www.mpwhi.com >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The FDA answered my letter with more carcinogenic lies. They say "we believe that based on a fair evaluation of the available information, there is a reasonable certainty of no harm to the general population from the use of aspartame" .... In reality they made no evaluation at all, they ignored all scientific peer reviewed research for the past 30 years and act like the original fraud didn't exist. Yet everything is a matter of public record. FDA have said they know of no mechanism by which aspartame triggers diseases so when a world expert writes a medical text and gives the mechanisms and document what they have been asking for they ignore it. Their duplicity and deceit should be reason to remove anyone from the FDA who swindles the public from receiving the honest truth. Send it to your Congressmen and Senators and ask when is enough enough. Hoodwinking the public to believe a poison is a safe additive is murder by deception. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> MORE CARCINOGENIC LIES FROM THE FDA Dr. Joseph M. Thomas Consumer Safety Officer Division of Petition Review, HFS-265 Office of Food Additive Safety Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Dear Dr. Thomas: I am in receipt of a letter signed by you dated 9/26/2017. Obviously, Dr. Musser couldn't and won't answer my letter, and it appears to be given to the aspartame industry to prepare a deceiving propagandistic response. Where the aspartame industry could use propaganda, it does whenever possible, but when it came to answering crucial and critical evidence, there was no response. If you truly wrote this rubbish and it is your sole response representing the FDA, then you should hand in your resignation, because this is a serious imminent health hazard petition besides answering FDA's letter that was written 14 years after a demand for ban. The original response over a decade ago was not even sent to me because the aspartame industry knew I would answer it meticulously and in detail, and I only received it after I discovered that it was published by the National Law Review! 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). (This is a reprint from NewsBred). Yet another Fake News from Indian Express (Image by NewsBred) Details DMCA Not a day passes when Indian Express doesn't peddle in Fake News. The latest to catch my attention was on Sunday, the slug of which read: "Accused working with NTPC as contract employee." (see pic). This is with reference to a juvenile accused in the murder of Mohammad Akhlaq in a Dadri village two years ago. Now who is the accused juvenile? Express doesn't name him. Now how do they know it? There is another accused juvenile who said so to the newspaper. And what's the name of this source-accused-juvenile? Express doesn't name him either. Maybe the newspaper is following the decent practice of not naming a juvenile till the charges against him is proved. (Never mind though the newspaper went to town in naming five "suspects"--or Sanatan Sanstha--for killing Gauri Lankesh that even the Special Investigating Team (SIT) know nothing about!) NTPC promptly came up with an official rejoinder within a few hours of the Indian Express story. Pankaj Saxena, spokesperson for NTPC, Dadri, said as for juvenile accused being offered job ""none of them have been employed." This Express "rocket" had been launched on a carefully prepared communal ground. Express links the story to the BJP MLA of the constituency, Tejpal Nagar, for recommending a job. Recommending the job to the accused? No, but to the 'bhabhi" of the accused! And is the "bhabhi" employed by the NTPC? No. Then who the hell is this accused juvenile who is working with the NTPC as contract employee about whom the newspaper has gone to the town? And about whom the BJP MLA is somehow projected as favouring in the background? After naming BJP MLA Tejpal Nagar as favouring the family of this ghost-of-a-juvenile-accused, the Indian Express states that the NTPC hires locals "through a contractor, in this case an MLA." A non-suspecting, gullible reader would immediately presume that Tejpal Nagar and this MLA are the same person. But "an MLA" is not "the MLA" and thus the Indian Express cleverly has covered its tracks, without dousing the insinuation. In a rush to pull the wool over its readers eyes, Express doesn't follow some basic journalistic principles. It makes no effort to explain what is an NTPC in this four-column story. NTPC is an initialization of National Thermal Power Corporation. Predictably, Indian Express doesn't carry the official rejoinder of NTPC in its today's edition. Maybe it would in days to come or spin a new fantasy. The Fake Train of Indian Express keeps hurtling down its rubbery track at a breakneck speed every day without a care in the world for journalistic ethics or its paying readers or worrying about the censure from the Press Council of India. It remains un-derailed for the laws of this land have its hands full with the stains of a firecracker. Who has the time to be a vigilante on Holy Cows of Lutyens' Media? (Facebook has set out 10 tools to check Fake News. A few give-aways are headlines, source, evidence and photos. Indian Express on Thursday's edition has been found out in peddling a Fake News.) From Alternet Like an alcoholic family that won't discuss alcoholism (proving Don Quixote's warning never to mention rope in the home of a man who's been hanged), far too many Americans are unwilling to acknowledge or even discuss the ongoing collapse of democracy in the United States. President Jimmy Carter took it head on when he told me on my radio program that the Citizen's United decision: "[V]iolates the essence of what made America a great country in its political system. Now it's just an oligarchy, with unlimited political bribery being the essence of getting the nominations for president or to elect the president. And the same thing applies to governors and U.S. senators and congress members. So now we've just seen a complete subversion of our political system as a payoff to major contributors, who want and expect and sometimes get favors for themselves after the election's over." This "complete subversion of our political system" grew, in large part, out of Richard Nixon's 1972 appointment of Lewis Powell to the Supreme Court. Powell, in 1971, had authored the infamous Powell Memo to the US Chamber of Commerce, strongly suggesting that corporate leaders needed to get politically involved and, essentially, take over everything from academia to our court system to our political system. In 1976, in the Buckley case, Powell began the final destruction of American democracy by declaring that when rich people or corporations own politicians, all that money that got transferred to the politicians wasn't bribery but, instead, was Constitutionally-protected First Amendment-defined "Free Speech." The Court radically expanded that in 2010 with Citizens United. As a result, there's really very little democracy left in our democracy. Our votes are handled in secret by private, unaccountable for-profit corporations. Our laws are written, more often than not, by corporate lawyers/lobbyists or representatives of billionaire-level wealth. And our media is owned by the same class of investors/stockholders, so it's a stretch to expect them to do much critical reporting on the situation. In his book The Decline of the West, first published in German in 1918 and then in English in 1926, Oswald Spengler suggested that what we call Western civilization was then beginning to enter a "hardening" or "classical" phase in which all the nurturing and supportive structures of culture would become, instead, instruments of the exploitation of a growing peasant class to feed the wealth of a new and strengthening aristocracy. Culture would become a parody of itself, average people's expectations would decline while their wants would grow, and a new peasantry would emerge, which would cause the culture to stabilize in a "classic form" that, while Spengler doesn't use the term, seems very much like feudalism -- the medieval system in which the lord owned the land and everyone else was a vassal (a tenant who owed loyalty to the landlord). Or its more modern incarnation: fascism. Spengler, considering himself an aristocrat, didn't see this as a bad thing. In 1926 he prophesied that once the boom of the Roaring Twenties was over, a great bust would wash over the Western world. While this bust had the potential to create chaos, its most likely outcome would be a return to the classic, stable form of social organization, what Spengler calls "high culture" and I call neofeudalism and/or fascism. He wrote: "In all high Cultures, therefore, there is a peasantry, which is breed stock, in the broad sense (and thus to a certain extent nature herself), and a society which is assertively and emphatically 'in form.' It is a set of classes or Estates, and no doubt artificial and transitory. But the history of these classes and estates is world history at highest potential. Twentieth and 21st century cultural observers, ranging from billionaire George Soros in his book The Crisis of Global Capitalism, to professor Noreena Hertz in The Silent Takeover: Global Capitalism and the Death of Democracy, have pointed to deep cracks in the foundational structure of Western civilization, traceable in part to the current legal status of corporations versus humans. Most recently, Jane Mayer has laid out in painful detail how the Koch Network and a few other political-minded billionaires have essentially taken over the entire Republican Party in her book Dark Money, as has Nancy MacLean with her new book Democracy in Chains. The extent of the problems within our political and economic structures are laid bare with startling and sometimes frightening clarity. 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 Smirking Chimp To understand the United States' stratagem in the Pacific, and against North Korea in particular, one has to understand the fundamental changes that are underway in that region. China's clout as an Asian superpower and as a global economic powerhouse has been growing at a rapid speed. The US' belated "pivot to Asia" to counter China's rise has been, thus far, quite ineffectual. The angry diplomacy of President Donald Trump is Washington's way to scare off North Korea's traditional ally, China, and disrupt what has been, till now, quite a smooth Chinese economic, political and military ascendency in Asia that has pushed against US regional influence, especially in the East and South China Seas. Despite the fact that China has reevaluated its once strong ties with North Korea, in recent years, it views with great alarm any military build-up by the US and its allies. A stronger US military in that region will be a direct challenge to China's inevitable trade and political hegemony. The US understands that its share of the world's economic pie chart is constantly being reduced, and that China is gaining ground, and fast. The United States' economy is the world's largest, but not for long. Statistics show that China is blazing the trail and will, by 2030 -- or even sooner -- win the coveted spot. In fact, according to an International Monetary Fund report in 2014, China is already the world's largest economy when the method of measurement is adjusted by purchasing power. This is not an anomaly and is not reversible, at least any time soon. The growth rate of the US economy over the past 30 years has averaged 2.4 percent, while China soared at 9.3 percent. Citing these numbers, Paul Ormerod, an economist and a visiting professor at University College, London, argued in a recent article that "if we project these rates forward, the Chinese economy will be as big as the American by 2024. By 2037, it will be more than twice the size." It is no wonder why Trump obsessively referenced "China" in his many campaigning speeches prior to his election to the White House, and why he continues to blame China for North Korea's nuclear weapons program to this day. As a business mogul, Trump understands how real power works, and that his country's nuclear arsenal, estimated at nearly 7,000 nuclear weapons, is simply not enough to reverse his country's economic misfortunes. In fact, China's nuclear arsenal is quite miniscule compared to the US. Military power alone is not a sufficient measurement of actual power that can be translated into economic stability, sustainable wealth and financial security of a nation. It is ironic that, while the US threatens to "totally destroy North Korea," it is the Chinese government that is using sensible language, calling for de-escalation and citing international law. Not only did fortunes change, but roles as well. China, which for many years was depicted as a rogue state, now seems like the cornerstone of stability in Asia. Prudent US leaders, like former President Jimmy Carter understand well the need to involve China in resolving the US-North Korean standoff. In an article in the Washington Post, Carter, 93, called for immediate and direct diplomatic engagement with North Korea that involves China as well. 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). In the ten months since I first filed a complaint about Granada Hills Charter High School's enrollment practices, there have been some incremental changes. Most importantly, while the original enrollment page had no provisions to compensate for the specific challenges that homeless students face, the school is now in compliance with the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act as its web page now includes a specific link for "Homeless and Foster Enrollment". Unfortunately, there are still areas where GHCHS is not in compliance. While the Los Angeles Unified School District's (LAUSD) Charter School Division (CSD) assured me, in a letter dated July 28, 2017, that the charter had "agreed to revise its enrollment form and website to provide further clarification regarding the distinction between admission and enrollment and what is requested after a student has been admitted to GHCHS", the revisions released last week do not reflect these changes. On Tuesday, I provided this information to the School Board: (Image by GHCHS) Details DMCA My neighborhood school is Granada Hills Charter High School. It was taken over by a charter. Before that my wife graduated from that school, so it is our neighborhood school. As such, all children within the former District boundaries should have the opportunity to go to that school. To make sure that that happens their charter states that "Granada Hills Charter shall not request or require submission of a student's IEP, 504 Plan, or any other record or related information prior to admission" (emphasis mine). As you know, I have been up here several times stating that they are still requesting information that identifies a student as having special-education needs and the response that I received from the Charter School Division was that they are not going to enforce it. The school would take care of it. Last week the school released the website of their latest admission requirements and in the packet you can see that it states: "504 and IEP documents are not required to enroll. However, providing these documents will assist GHCHS in providing a continuity of services." That is a request. The charter specifically says that they may not request this information, yet the Charter School Division continuously allows them to get away with this. If you continue with the packet you will see that that wording appears on another page. It also asks for the student's race. I want to know why they are asking for a student's race before enrollment. That is not allowed. The next page again requests the IEP. They are not allowed to request the IEP. You will also see in this package the Charter School Division's response to one of my prior appearances before you. The next page has the data that shows that this is having an effect, that they are serving fewer children with special-education needs than the schools around them, particularly LAUSD schools. Finally, under the California Education Code, I am allowed to submit items for your agenda. I have submitted this resolution several weeks ago and I am still waiting for this to be put on the agenda. A copy of my proposed resolution is in your packet. Granada needs to be forced to serve all children. It is a neighborhood school. At this point, there is little doubt that GHCHS does not have any interest in complying with this aspect of their charter. Unfortunately, discouraging the enrollment of students with special needs is not the only way that the administration is failing their original promises to the community. The conversion from a public school was supposed to increase representation from the community, but the Governing Board is now an unelected body. There are also numerous complaints against the school from parents who live in the area but have been forced to enroll their children in the iGranada program instead of a traditional program that includes credentialed teachers. The LAUSD issued a Notice to Cure for this issue on September 21, 2016, but it has not been resolved. Supporters of GHCHS' Executive Director, Brian Bauer, have quoted him as saying that the school has no responsibility to automatically enroll those living within the school's former district boundaries. This is a complete about-face from the following statement that Bauer made at the January 2011, Governing Board meeting: Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). +65-65613900 Singsys, a privately owned company to win a major Governmental website development project CIMAP awards Singsys with Aroma Mission website development after careful evaluation and competitive screening process Singsys went on winning a major website development project for one of the leading Governmental Institutes in India with a history of more than half a century. The Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) has allocated the development of a brand new website Aroma Mission to a leading web development company operating in Singapore and India. CIMAP is an institute with long-lasting history. Founded back in 1959, its an establishment which is undoubtedly one of a kind. The intention behind it is to bring forward high-quality insight which is geared towards the entrepreneur as well as the regular reader. The aim of the organization is to equip the nation with contemporary and competitive agriculture, linking the industrial Processing of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. As a result of their in-depth and resourceful research, substantial information is brought forward. However, the challenge is to make this information accessible and easy to understand by those who are not so scientifically savvy. This is where Singsys mobile application Development Company, comes into the picture. After a careful and thorough evaluation of the entries, CIMAP has conveniently allocated the project to the company. The reasons were plentiful it managed to fulfil all of the procedural requirements set forth and it also brought the most in terms of reliability. The company attempts to provide a perfect blend of UX/UI with content allocation and comprehensive designs in an attempt to make the information understandable and, what is more engaging. This aims to increase the overall retention and to ensure that more and more people come to the website in an attempt to get the invaluable research information. About Singsys: Singsys is a company with operations in India and Singapore. With a tremendously extensive and serious portfolio backed with substantial case studies, the company is regarded as one of the industry leaders in the mobile web development field. It attempts to cater to the requirements of each and every project, delivering top-notch results as per the highest industry standards. Singsys is a fast developing company that specialises in mobile and web applications, digital marketing and cloud consultancy. 1 North Bridge Road, #17-10 High Street Centre Singapore 179094 +65-65613900 https://www.singsys.com/ This release was published on openPR. Permanent link to this press release: Copy Please set a link in the press area of your homepage to this press release on openPR. openPR disclaims liability for any content contained in this release. Ozery Bakery Showcases Brands First Single Serve Morning Rounds, Snack Components, and Crackers at NACS www.nacsonline.com http://ozerybakery.com/us-en/ http://ozerybakery.com/ Ozery Bakery, a family-owned bakery making superior quality bread from real, premium ingredients for over 20 years, will highlight product extensions including Flat Breads, Crackers, Morning Rounds, Snacking Rounds, and the brands first Single Serve Morning Rounds during the upcoming NACS Expo. Ozery Bakery invites attendees to stop by Booth #7477 to taste recipes created using these and other Ozery Bakery products, which were recently named the Number One breakfast bread in the natural channel for 24 weeks ending July 17, outselling all other English muffin and bagel brands, according to SPINS Data.The Muesli Morning Rounds Single Serve complements the brands top selling full-size product line, Morning Rounds, which includes flavors such as Cranberry Orange, Apple Cinnamon, Cinnamon & Raisin and Date & Chia. The new item is conveniently packaged as a single serve and contains five grams of protein per serving and no artificial preservatives or flavors. While the brands Crackers and Flat Breads are not currently sold in stores across the country, they are top components found in best-selling snack packs at leading quick serve and convenience stores. They are the perfect option for a healthy individual who is seeking a grab-n-go nutritious and filling option for their busy day. All Ozery Bakery products are free from GMOs, artificial preservatives, colors and flavors and prepared with whole grains making them a great healthy alternative.We pride ourselves on creating innovative products that are heart healthy, high in fiber, and contain no artificial ingredients for customers who seek products that are better for their health, said Alon Ozery, Co-Owner of Ozery Bakery. We are excited to show our customers how the new Single Serve Morning Round option, Flat Breads, Crackers, and Snacking Round can fit into a busy and hectic life, yet still maintain flavor and nutrition.NACS Expo will take place on October 17-20, 2017 at the McCormick Place located at 2301 S King Drive, Illinois. Ozery Bakery invites attendees to stop by Booth #7477 to sample the Muesli Single Serve Morning Rounds, Flat Breads, Crackers, Snacking Rounds, and other heart healthy products.Ozery Bakery products are available at leading natural, specialty and grocery stores nationwide. For more information on the show, please visit. For more information on Ozery Bakery, please visitAbout Ozery Bakery:Ozery Bakery is a family-owned bakery founded on the promise to make superior quality bread from real, premium ingredients without compromise. Combining traditional methods, international influences, carefully selected ingredients and a modern sensibility, Ozery Bakerys fresh-baked, healthy bread fuels your life in a way that simply feels good. Ozery Bakery began as a sandwich shop Alon and his father, Al started in downtown Toronto. Soon, Guy joined in to help and a family business was born. Today, Alon and Guy manage the business together. To learn more about Ozery Bakery, please visitfind us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.888 S. Figueroa St., Ste. 1000, Los Angeles, CA 90017 emPower eLearning Solutions Acquires Cosaint Inc. http://www.empowerbpo.com www.empowerbpo.com LOUISVILLE, KY, October 16, 2017We at emPower Solutions Inc. are excited to announce that we have acquired Cosaint Inc., a privately-held company incorporated in Washington state in 2001, and headquartered in Mount Vernon, WA. The company develops information security education solutions with a focus on online security awareness training for end-users.emPower Solutions Inc. is headquartered in Louisville, KY and has a team of 30+ people actively working in the field of eLearning and Compliance training.Cosaint had collaborated with emPower for a number of years on content development, sales and support projects. emPower is ideally placed to continue Cosaints mission to educate and serve all of Cosaints customers, and to grow the business with new courses and delivery options.Mike McCrea, the CEO of Cosaint mentioned that We plan to make this transition as smooth as possible with minimal, if any impact. The official cut over date is August 31, but we have already been working together and will continue to do so beyond that date. We have utmost confidence in emPowers abilities to take the training portals to heights far beyond what we had envisionedHardik Parikh, the CEO of emPower Solutions mentioned With this acquisition, emPower will continue its mission to help its customer train all the employees on various compliance areas. Cosaints addition will bolster the emPowers offerings and make the solution even more robust, secure and cost-effective.For additional information, please visitMedia Contacts:emPower eLearning Solutions12806 Townepark Way, Louisville, KY 40243-2311(502) 400-9374sales@empowerbpo.comAbout emPoweremPower is a leading provider of comprehensive eLearning and Compliance Solutions through a proprietary Learning Management System (LMS). Our mission is to provide innovative solutions to enable compliance with applicable laws and regulations and maximize business performance. emPower provides range of courses to manage compliance required by regulatory bodies such as OSHA, HIPAA, Joint commission, Red Flags Rule and several others.emPower eLearning Inc.12806 Townepark Way, Louisville, KY 40243-2311(502) 400-9374 Mr. Jonathan Bakhsheshian speaks on the legal ramifications of opioid abuse at From Injury to Addiction Event. "Together, alongside the medical community, lawyers can take the first step in preventing opioid addiction" http://www.paliwineco.com/ https://www.eventbrite.com/o/social-plexxus-and-ichthus-injury-network-14965925244 https://www.facebook.com/Social-Plexxus-529855220688369/ https://www.facebook.com/Social-Plexxus-529855220688369/ October 18, 2017, Anaheim CaliforniaIts 7:00 PM on a Thursday in Beverly Hills, which is Happy Hour for most young professionals in the neighborhood. Not for Mr. Jonathan Bakhsheshian, who sits with a stack of case files pouring over discovery, documents, and an onset of issues.As an attorney with the Banafsheh Danesh & Javid, a law firm in Beverly Hills, California, Mr. Bakhsheshian sees a wide variety of cases ranging from catastrophic injuries to wrongful death cases against both private and public entities. He handles clients from a wide variety of socioeconomic and racial backgrounds and asserts that, no matter how big the case or how small the injury, we treat each file with the same amount of devotion.Mr. Bakhsheshian attended University of California, Los Angeles where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, graduating with honors and was recognized for his advocacy skills and was a recipient of the Regent Scholarship Award. In addition to his classroom training, Jonathan externed for the United States District Court, Central District of California; United States Attorneys Office, Department of Justice; Bankruptcy Judge of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California; Los Angeles Superior Court; and for the Los Angeles District Attorneys Office.Most cases are flooded with a variety of complex issues. As soon as I get the file, I identify those issues and resolve them before they affect the case. As for solutions, Mr. Bakhsheshian has seen a lot of success in communicating directly with clients and physicians as much as possible and monitoring these cases very closely. It certainly adds to the amount of time that the medical professionals and I are spending on these cases but if you dont, you potentially have a much more difficult case to resolve.Jonathan prides himself on being a tough, creative, and fair legal advocate for all of his clients and has successfully recovered over millions of dollars on behalf of his clients.On October 18, 2017, Mr. Bakhsheshian joins the medical community in the thought leadership meeting From Injury to Addiction dedicated to addressing the opioid crisis. He will speak about the legal ramifications of opioid abuse.The event From Insult to Injury will take place, Wednesday October 18 from 6-9 PMThe Pali Winery is located at:500 South Anaheim BoulevardAnaheim, CA. 92805Tickets can be purchased online at:Social Plexxus promotes personal and professional growth through thought leadership, networking and professional development events as well as social media and public relations.@social_plexxusPress Contact:Amee GrayMs. Gray MarketingLos Angeles, California.Social Plexxus promotes personal and professional growth through thought leadership, networking and professional development events as well as social media and public relations.@social_plexxusPress Contact:Amee GrayMs. Gray MarketingLos Angeles, California.Amee Gray11594 CHIQUITA STStudio City, CA.91604 World's leading executives & minds unite to inspire & collaborate at IB League www.ibleague.org www.ibleague.org Memberships have now opened for IB League - members community where world's leading executives & minds unite to inspire & collaborate in business & life.IB League members are world's leading executives, experts, professionals and entrepreneurs who come with top experience from Fortune 500, unicorn companies, investment banks, venture capital firms, leading start-ups, law firms, independent practices, governments and education from world's leading universities.IB League's goal is to unite world's leading executives & minds to inspire & collaborate in business & life through deep relationships, trusted business, shared wisdom, talent & opportunities, technology for leaders, peer-to-peer investments, shared experiences and more.While most other elite member communities choose to segregate themselves based on a region, religion, age group, gender, race, industry, job function and other dividing factors, IB League celebrates diversity and believes in global unity.Embracing community helps us live longer, and be happier. Harvard study, running for almost 80 yearsIB League team agrees with longest running Harvard study findings that embracing community helps us live longer, and be happier personally and in business. In the words of study director, Robert Waldinger - "Loneliness Kills. It's as powerful as smoking or alcoholism." And we know that it has been lonely at the top - for CEOs, CXOs, top executives and great minds across sectors.Loneliness kills. Its as powerful as smoking or alcoholism Robert Waldinger, Harvard ProfessorTherefore, IB League is built as a community of like-minded executives & great minds to form deep trusted relationships and not just network, connect or link in. IB League has drawn it's values from ancient wisdom and execution approach from world's leading executives, professors and greatest minds with whom IB League founder, Ael PJ worked in all major industries and shared valuable experiences while living, working and traveling worldwide in last 15 years.IB League is a members community where worlds leading executives & minds unite to inspire & collaborate in business & life. Ael PJ, IB League FounderIB League team is grateful to all world's leading executives & minds who believe in IB League and find it meaningful, inspiring and empowering to become part of IB League community. Learn more about IB League and request membership atIB League is a members community where world's leading executives & minds unite to inspire & collaborate in business & life through deep relationships, trusted business, shared wisdom, talent & opportunities, technology for leaders, peer-to-peer investments, shared experiences and more. Learn more and submit your interest to join at2017 IB League (Inspire Business League)140 Broadway,Manhattan,New York,New YorkZip Code 10005United States of America EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017 EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017 https://www.qyresearcheurope.com/goods-762091.html http://www.qyresearchglobal.com/ The EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017 is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the Flavored Cigars industry.Firstly, the report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Flavored Cigars Industry analysis is provided for the international market including development history, competitive landscape analysis, and major regions development status.Secondly, development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures. This report also states import/export, supply and consumption figures as well as cost, price, revenue and gross margin by regions (United States, EU, China and Japan), and other regions can be added.Then, the report focuses on global major leading industry players with information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials, equipment and downstream consumers analysis is also carried out. Whats more, the Flavored Cigars industry development trends and marketing channels are analyzed.Finally, the feasibility of new investment projects is assessed, and overall research conclusions are offered.In a word, the report provides major statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market.In this report, the EMEA Flavored Cigars 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 split EMEA into Europe, the Middle East and Africa, With sales (K Units), revenue (Million USD), market share and growth rate of Flavored Cigars for these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast)Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Benelux;Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Israel, UAE and Iran;Africa: South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt and Algeria.EMEA Flavored Cigars market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Flavored Cigars sales volume (K Units), price (USD/Unit), revenue (Million USD) and market share for each manufacturer/player; the top players includingGurkha CigarsImperial TobaccoMiami CigarHabanosGeneral CigarDrew EstateArnold AndreAvanti CigarOliva Cigar FamilyScandinavian Tobacco Group (Havana Honeys')Swisher Sweets (Swisher International)Rocky PatelAlec BradleyDavidoff of Geneva USAArturo FuenteOn the basis of product, this report displays the sales volume (K Units), revenue (Million USD), product price (USD/Unit), market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoHand-Rolled Flavored CigarMachine-Made Flavored CigarOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume (K Units), market share and growth rate of Flavored Cigars for each application, includingBusiness ConsumptionHousehold ConsumptionOtherTo ask a complete & professional report sample or make an order, please browse our detailded product link:Table of contents:1 Flavored Cigars Overview2 EMEA Flavored Cigars Competition by Manufacturers/Players/Suppliers, Region, Type and Application3 Europe Flavored Cigars (Volume, Value and Sales Price), by Players, Countries, Type and Application4 Middle East Flavored Cigars (Volume, Value and Sales Price), by Region, Type and Application5 Africa Flavored Cigars (Volume, Value and Sales Price) by Players, Countries, Type and Application6 EMEA Flavored Cigars Manufacturers/Players Profiles and Sales Data7 Flavored Cigars Manufacturing Cost Analysis8 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buy9 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders10 Market Effect Factors Analysis11 EMEA Flavored Cigars Market Forecast (2017-2022)12 Research Findings and Conclusion13 AppendixRelated Reports:Global Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017China Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017India Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017Korea Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017USA Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017Japan Flavored Cigars Market Report 2017List of Tables and Figures:Figure Product Picture of Flavored CigarsFigure Global Flavored Cigars Sales Volume Comparison (K Units) by Type (2012-2022)Figure Global Flavored Cigars Sales Volume Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 2016Figure Adult Product PictureFigure Baby Product PictureFigure Global Flavored Cigars Sales Comparison (K Units) by Application (2012-2022)Figure Global Sales Market Share of Flavored Cigars by Application in 2016Figure Hospital ExamplesTable Key Downstream Customer in HospitalContact Details:Company Name: QYResearch CO.,LIMITED | focus on Market Survey and ResearchTina| Sales ManagersEmail: sales@qyresearcheurope.com or tinaning@qyresearch.comWeb:QYResearch established in 2007, focus on custom research, management consulting, IPO consulting, industry chain research, data base and seminar services. The company owned a large basic data base (such as National Bureau of statistics database, Customs import and export database, Industry Association Database etc), experts resources (included energy automotive chemical medical ICT consumer goods etc industries experts who own more than 10 years experiences on marketing or R&D), professional survey team (the team member with more than 3 years market survey experience and more than 2 years depth expert interview experience),Excellent data analysis team (SPSS statistics and PPT graphics process team); QYResearch has always pursuit product quality, adhere to the quality is the soul of business.Room 2901 VILI International Building No.167 Linhe West Road Fluxapyroxad Market Share 2017-2022 Monsanto, Lianhe Chemical, BASF Fluxapyroxad http://bit.ly/2ywFz7J https://www.marketsresearch.biz/report/global-fluxapyroxad-market-research-report-2017-120764/ Fluxapyroxad market research 2017Global market study " Fluxapyroxad Market Share 2017-2022 " analyses the crucial factors of the Fluxapyroxad market based on present industry situations, market demands, business strategies adopted by Fluxapyroxad market players and their growth scenario. This report isolates the Fluxapyroxad market based on the key players, Type, Application and Regions.The Fluxapyroxad report provides the past, present and future Fluxapyroxad industry Size, trends and the forecast information related to the expected Fluxapyroxad sales revenue, growth, Fluxapyroxad demand and supply scenario. Furthermore, the opportunities and the threats to the development of Fluxapyroxad market are also covered at depth in this research document.Get Free Sample Here -Fluxapyroxad Market 2017: Leading Players and Manufacturers Analysis BASF Monsanto Lianhe Chemical TechnologyThe Fluxapyroxad market is divided into Six major geographical segments:1. Fluxapyroxad market in United States2. Fluxapyroxad market in China3. Fluxapyroxad market in Europe4. Fluxapyroxad market in Japan5. Fluxapyroxad market in Southeast Asia6. Fluxapyroxad market in India (Other Regions can be included)Initially, the Fluxapyroxad manufacturing analysis of the major industry players based on their company profiles, annual revenue, sales margin, growth aspects is also covered in this report, which will help other Fluxapyroxad market players in driving business insights.Access report:Key Emphasizes Of The Fluxapyroxad Market:- The fundamental details related to Fluxapyroxad industry like the product definition, cost, variety of applications, demand and supply statistics are covered in this report.- Competitive study of the major Fluxapyroxad players will help all the market players in analyzing the latest trends and business strategies.- The deep research study of Fluxapyroxad market based on development opportunities, growth limiting factors and feasibility of investment will forecast the market growth.The study of emerging Fluxapyroxad market segments and the existing market segments will help the readers in planning the business strategies.Finally, the report Global Fluxapyroxad Market 2017 describes Fluxapyroxad industry expansion game plan, the Fluxapyroxad industry data source, appendix, research findings and the conclusion.'marketsresearch.biz' is a single destination for all the industry, company and country reports. We have a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of the technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA Global Data Center Cooling Systems Market 2017 - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Strategies and Forecast to 2022 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Industry https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/936877-global-data-center-cooling-systems-market-research-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/936877-global-data-center-cooling-systems-market-research-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=936877 https://www.linkedin.com/company/wise-guy-research-consultants-pvt-ltd-?trk=biz-companies-cym https://www.wiseguyreports.com Global Data Center Cooling Systems IndustryThis report studies Data Center Cooling Systems in Global market, especially in North America, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia and India, focuses on top manufacturers in global market, with capacity, production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer, coveringEmerson Network PowerAPCRittal CorporationAiredale InternationalDegree Controls IncSchneider ElectricEquinixCloud Dynamics IncKyotoCooling BVSiemon3M CorpSiemensCoolcentricLatisysAST ModularWakefield-Vette IncMitsubishi ElectricRaritan IncGeneral Air ProductsTry Sample Report @Market Segment by Regions, this report splits Global into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue, market share and growth rate of Data Center Cooling Systems in these regions, from 2011 to 2021 (forecast), likeNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaSplit by product type, with production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, can be divided intoIn-Row CoolingOverhead CoolingIn-Rack CoolingRear Door CoolingSplit by application, this report focuses on consumption, market share and growth rate of Data Center Cooling Systems in each application, can be divided intoApplication 1Application 2For Detailed Reading Please visit WiseGuy Reports @Some Major Points from Table of content:Global Data Center Cooling Systems Market Research Report 20171 Data Center Cooling Systems Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Data Center Cooling Systems1.2 Data Center Cooling Systems Segment by Type1.2.1 Global Production Market Share of Data Center Cooling Systems by Type in 20151.2.2 In-Row Cooling1.2.3 Overhead Cooling1.2.4 In-Rack Cooling1.2.5 Rear Door Cooling1.3 Data Center Cooling Systems Segment by Application1.3.1 Data Center Cooling Systems Consumption Market Share by Application in 20151.3.2 Application 11.3.3 Application 21.3.4 Application 31.4 Data Center Cooling Systems Market by Region1.4.1 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.2 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Data Center Cooling Systems (2012-2022)2 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Production and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.2 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.3 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Average Price by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.4 Manufacturers Data Center Cooling Systems Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Data Center Cooling Systems Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Data Center Cooling Systems Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Data Center Cooling Systems Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion3 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2012-2017)3.1 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Production by Region (2012-2017)3.2 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Production Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.3 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.4 Global Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.5 North America Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.6 Europe Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.7 China Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.8 Japan Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.9 Southeast Asia Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.10 India Data Center Cooling Systems Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)Continued..Buy now @About UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.Contact Us:Norah Trent+1 646 845 9349 / +44 208 133 9349Follow on LinkedIn: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 LtdPune 411028Maharashtra, GlobalPh: +91 841 198 5042 Internet of Things in Retail Market grow at 19% CAGR from 2017 to 2024 Global Market Insights https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1591 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1591 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/iot-internet-of-things-retail-market https://www.gminsights.com Increasing adoption of the Internet of Things by retailers to enhance the customer experience, reduce costs and improve overall performance is expected to drive the IoT in retail market growth over the forecast timeline. Rising trend of digitization across the retail sector coupled with the increasing usage of smart devices contributes significantly to the industry growth. In order to gain shopper insights and understand the buying behavior and deliver customized offers & promotions, retailers are increasingly deploying such solutions.IoT has enormous potential to transform the retail industry. The various benefits include efficient store management, tracking & monitoring inventory and improvise the store security and loss prevention. Automated check-out, tracking the product quality and optimized supply chain management are among the other benefits of implementing the technology. Growing internet connectivity across various regions coupled with the increasing adoption of smartphones is anticipated to propel the IoT in retail market growth. Factors such as gradual decline in prices of components such as RFID tags & sensors is expected to contribute to the adoption.Request for a sample of this research report @Concerns related to data security and privacy might hinder the IoT in retail market growth. Factors such as high cost associated with the implementation coupled with the interoperability of devices in the system is anticipated to curb the demand for such technological solutions.Increasing installation of IoT solutions by retailers is expected to drive the adoption of connectivity technology such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) in the IoT in retail market. It identifies the registered customers when they enter the stores and send messages which include customized promotions and offers. BLE is generally used for applications which need exchange of data in low volume and consumes less power as compared to that of Bluetooth. RFID market is anticipated to grow significantly owing to the increasing adoption coupled with the rapidly declining cost of RFID tags.Wide adoption in applications such as digital signage mainly used for advertising & marketing is expected to fuel the IoT in retail market growth. Advantages of digital signage include offering the customers an interactive shopping experience and making the innovative advertisements available to the masses in reduced time. The intuitive touch screen offering the customers with personalized & relevant content is anticipated to fuel the IoT in retail market growth.Asia Pacific IoT in retail market is expected to witness significant growth pertaining to the retail sector in economies such as China, Japan and India. Increasing disposable income of the middle-class population residing in those economies coupled with the growing user base of smartphones lies impetus to the industry growth in the region. Factors such as improving the customer experience followed by speeding up the check-out process is the main reason for implementing such solutions by the retailers.Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @North America, being the largest market for retail is expected to grow considerably. This is attributed to the early technology adoption coupled with the presence of an organized retail sector in the region. The retailers in the region mainly focus on enhancing the supply chain performance by heavily investing in technologies such as automated inventory verification.Companies in the IoT in retail market comprise IBM Corporation, Intel Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, SAP AG, Zebra Technologies, Cisco Systems, Amazon Web Services (AWS). The players are making huge investments in R&D to gain eminence. Moreover, they increasingly focusing on enhancing the overall customer experience by innovating and differentiating the services.Browse key industry insights spread across 150 pages with 156 market data tables & 12 figures & charts from the report, IoT in Retail Market Size By Platform (Network Management, Device Management, Application Management), By Technology (Sensors, RFID, Connectivity Technology), By Component (Hardware, Software [Data Management, Streaming Analytics, Security, Remote Monitoring, Bandwidth Management]), By Service (Professional Service, Managed Service), By Application (Digital Signage, Supply Chain Management, Payment, Smart Shelf & Doors), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa), Application Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2017 2024 in detail along with the table of contents:About Global Market InsightsGlobal Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb: Concentrated Solar Power Market demand from power tower to grow over 23% from 2016 to 2025 https://www.fractovia.org/request-sample/402 https://www.fractovia.org/request-purchase/402 https://www.fractovia.org Substantial advancements in the energy technologies over the past few years have added a remarkable value to the global concentrated solar power market and has impacted massively on its growth projection. The strength of these solar power panels lies in its ability to store thermal energy which gives it a competitive edge over other energy sources. CSP plants actually use mirrors to focus the sunlight for generating power, which in turn produce high-temperature thermal energy that can be stored inexpensively. Thus, CSP with thermal storage stands as an all-time available electricity source even when there is no sunlight. Cost effectivity and favorable government-backed incentives such as renewable energy certificates, carbon credits will further augment the market demand in the years ahead. Global Market Insights Inc., estimates concentrated solar power market to exceed a capacity of 24 GW by the end of 2025.Request for a sample of this research report @Considering the flexibility and reliability, concentrated solar power plants enables better grid penetration which makes it attractive to numerous end-use sectors including automotive, pharmaceutical, refineries, metal processing etc. Technically, concentrated solar power industry is segmented into parabolic troughs, power tower, dish, and linear fresnel. Parabolic troughs dominated the overall industry share in 2015, by accounting for more than 70% of the total volume. Low cost in comparison to other thermal technologies is driving the market demand for this product. Power tower based concentrated solar power market is also witnessing a promising business roadmap owing to its upgraded heat storage capacity, low cost, and high efficiency. As per estimation, this market is forecast to grow strikingly at an annual rate of 23% over the coming eight years.Geographically, U.S. is one of the leading players of global concentrated solar power industry. It held a share of USD 12 billion in 2015 and is anticipated to witness a lucrative growth curve with a projected CAGR of 8% over the period of 2016-2025. Federal government support which includes financial assistance, tax rebate, net metering etc. will further augment the market outlook. APAC concentrated solar power industry will also witness substantial growth over the years ahead with India and China as the major revenue pockets. Growing inclination toward renewable energy sources to address the surging electricity demand is positively influencing the regional market demand. China concentrated solar power market is projected to have a strong growth prospect in the years ahead. It is estimated to grow tremendously at an annual rate of over 20% over 2016-2025.Make an inquiry for buying this report @Some of the key players actively partaking in global concentrated solar power industry include Siemens, NextEra Energy Resources, TSK Flagsol, eSolar, Areva, and Solar Millennium.About Fractovia.orgFractovia.org is one of India's leading in-house and free news portal. It is fully automated, and operates on a constant premise, interfacing with news sites and offering redesigned breaking features to readers across the globe. Our mission is to offer individuals opportunities for connections with news writers and distributors which they can pursue. We operate by mapping articles pertaining to breaking news, constantly and progressively, against a pre-determined word-based theme, offering important connections to readers and clients, as well as distributers.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAFractovia.orgPhone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@fractovia.orgWebsite: Packaging Robot Market - Advanced technologies & growth opportunities in global Industry https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=9836 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/packaging-robot-market.html http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com The global packaging robot market is expected to draw growth on the back of several domestic and multinational organizations operating in different industries around the world that adopt robotics as an indispensable slice of their business strategies. On a worldwide platform, the growth of the global packaging robot market could be catapulted with mounting concerns over overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and safety and advancement in various manufacturing sectors.The global packaging robot market is forecasted to reach a valuation of US$5.03 bn by 2024 while rising at a CAGR of more than 14.0% between 2016 and 2024. In 2016, the global packaging robot market had acquired a US$1.67 bn.Get an exclusive sample of this report @Picking Robots Lead with Higher CAGR but Packing Robots Stay AttractiveThe sales quotient of the world packaging robot market is anticipated to be bolstered by the augmenting demand of industrial robots in packaging and pick and place applications. During the aforementioned forecast period, packing robots could attract a high demand and expand at an over 14.5% in the world packaging robot market. Nonetheless, compared to the overall sales of packaging robots during the same period, picking robots are predicted to register a higher CAGR. Since different robots are engaged for different applications, the demand for application-specific robots could also vary.According to end use, industrial packaging is envisaged to showcase dominance in the world packaging robot market throughout the course of the forecast period, compared to tracking and logistics, consumer products, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverages. However, industrial packaging could record a reasonably slower growth until the concluding forecast year, which gives an opportunity for other end-use segments to make a comeback. The world packaging robot market is envisioned to witness the rise of consumer products, closely following industrial packaging, in the near future.After conducting an exhaustive analysis of the world packaging robot market and its penetration, adoption, and sales in industrial packaging and consumer products, the researchers foresee a bright future for manufacturers. Food and beverages is anticipated to go past a handsome CAGR growth while other end-use markets such as tracking and logistics could grow at a slightly lower pace. Nevertheless, tracking and logistics packing robot suppliers are foretold to receive a telling demand with the rise of unloading and loading industrial applications.Browse Press Release of this Research Report @China Aids Asia Pacific Dominate with both Sales Value and VolumeIn terms of geography, Asia Pacific could record a larger share in the international packaging robot market with countries such as China operating in the limelight. In comparison with other Asia Pacific markets, China is foreseen to exhibit a higher sales value as well as volume. High potential markets of the Asia Pacific region could roof a substantial presence of most multinational firms. However, the surging penetration of Chinese suppliers is projected to aggravate the competition in the region. The larger market size of Asia Pacific could be envied by Europe and North America progressing at close quarters.With the demand for regular crest and trough, the sale of packaging robots is prophesied to stay moderate. Howbeit, it could demonstrate an upward growth trend in less developed countries. This is expected to be primarily on account of the escalating level of automation across diverse end-use industries. Compared to the Asia Pacific and Europe regions, the Middle East and Africa and Latin America could reveal a fairly slower rate of sales in the international packaging robot market.Players such as Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, ABB Limited, Yaskawa Electric Corporation, Kuka Roboter GmbH, and Fanuc Corporation are predicted to make a significant mark in the international packaging robot market.About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.coWebsite: Rising Awareness about Modern Toys in Canada and US to Contribute in Placing North America Region at top in the Global Smart Toys Market MRRSE https://www.mrrse.com/sample/3502 https://www.mrrse.com/smart-toys-market https://www.mrrse.com/enquiry/3502 https://www.mrrse.com/ Global smart toys market is expected to see remarkable growth during the projected period of five years, i.e. 2017 to 2022. This growth is mainly due to the factors such as rising per capita income, changing lifestyle, growing urbanization, increasing population, and rising awareness among people about modern toys which can be played outside and inside as well. According to the new research report, Smart Toys Market- Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2017-2022, that has been added in the database of Market Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE), the global market for toys is likely to expand with significant Compound Annual growth Rate throughout the assesses period. Nevertheless, modern toys are costly affair and therefore this particular factor is likely to act as a challenge for the global market for toys.Request Free Sample Report:Global Smart Toys Market- Segmental Analysis and ForecastThis market is basically segmented into interfacing device, wireless communication technology and type of toy. The segment of type of toy consists of puzzles and building games, mechanical toys, health-tracking toys or wearables, voice or image recognition toys, screenless toys, toys-to-life and others. Among all these segments based of type of toys, the segment of voice of image recognition smart toys is likely to grab around 31.1% revenue share of the total market. With a CAGR of 3.7%, this segment is likely to achieve the value of US$ 2,720.4 Mn in 2022, while in 2017, this segment is anticipated to be valued US$ 2,271.7 Mn. Considering this growth, according to this research report, the segment of voice or image recognition smart toys is expected to show the annual growth of US$ 89.7 Mn during the projected period.Interfacing device consists of drones, smartphones, consoles and tables. While another segment called wireless communication technology is segmented into NFC, Wi-Fi, RFID, Bluetooth and others.Global Smart Toys Market- Regional Analysis and ForecastWith a CAGR of 3.3%, North America region is expected to value US$ 1,802.0 Mn in 2017 and is likely to expand at US$ 2,119.2 Mn by the end of 2022. The two key factors which are responsible for the growth of the global market for toy in North America are growing buying ability of population in Canada and the U.S. and rising rate of adoptability of new technology.Browse Full Report with TOC:The second largest region in this market is Europe with nearly 23.9% revenue share in 2017. Apart from Europe and North America, Asia Pacific excluding Japan is likely to expand at a CAGR of 3.9%. The region is densely populated and high number of population is between the age group of five to 14. The per capita income in the countries like China and India is increasing which pull the more and more customers. The market for smart toys in APEJ is likely to touch the value of US$ 1,619.6 Mn by the end of 2022, while Japans market is anticipated to create an absolute $ opportunity of around US$ 56.1 Mn throughout the projected period.Global Smart Toys Market- Key VendorsSome of the key players are SmartGurlz ApS, Fisher-Price Inc., Reach Robotics Ltd, Activision Blizzard Inc., Wow Wee Group Ltd, The Hasbro Inc., Genesis Toy Co. Ltd, LeapFrog Enterprises, and Seebo Interactive Ltd.Enquire About this Report:About UsMarket Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of market intelligence reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting.ContactState Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY - 12207United StatesTelephone: +1-518-730-0559Email: sales@mrrse.comWebsite: Global Sesame Oil market professional survey report 2017 forecast to 2023 Sesame Oil Market https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request-sample/?post=390652 https://www.reportsmonitor.com/check-discount/?post=390652 https://www.reportsmonitor.com/global-sesame-oil-market-analysis-2011-2017-and-forecast-2018-2023/ Sesame Oil MarketReportsMonitor has added a report on Sesame Oil MarketGlobal Sesame Oil Market Research Report 2017 to 2023 presents an inside and out appraisal of the Sesame Oil including empowering advances, key patterns, showcase drivers, challenges, institutionalization, administrative scene, organization models, administrator contextual investigations, openings, future guide, esteem chain, environment player profiles and procedures. The report likewise shows estimates for Sesame Oil speculations from 2017 till 2023.Sesame oil is derived from a plant species called Sesamum indicum, which is an herbaceous annual belonging to the Pedaliaceae family that reaches about 6 ft (1.8 m) in height. In modern times, sesame has been embraced by Western herbalists for a variety of therapeutic purposes. The oil is also used in cooking and as an ingredient in margarine and salad dressings as well as in certain cosmetics and skin softening products. Native to Asia and Africa, sesame is primarily cultivated in India, China, etc.If you want sample of Sesame Oil Market Report -The global Sesame Oil market will reach xxx Million USD in 2017 and CAGR xx% 2011-2017. The report begins from overview of Industry Chain structure, and describes industry environment, then analyses market size and forecast of Sesame Oil by product, region and application, in addition, this report introduces market competition situation among the vendors and company profile, besides, market price analysis and value chain features are covered in this report.Product Type Coverage (Market Size & Forecast, Major Company of Product Type etc.):White Sesame OilBlack Sesame OilCompany Coverage (Sales Revenue, Price, Gross Margin, Main Products etc.):KadoyaFlavor FullDipasaEng Hup SengSastha OilTAKEMOTO OIL & FATChee SengHenan DingzhiHubei FudaHunan Cheer COMEAnhui YanzhuangWilmarShandong RuifuAnhui HuaanJiangsu JingyouTOTOLEBGGShandong ShagouApplication Coverage (Market Size & Forecast, Different Demand Market by Region, Main Consumer Profile etc.):Food and Health IndustryPharmaceutical IndustryCosmetic and Skin Care IndustryOthersRegion Coverage (Regional Output, Demand & Forecast by Countries etc.):North AmericaEuropeAsia-PacificSouth AmericaMiddle East & AfricaIf you want to check Discount on Sesame Oil Market Report -Table of ContentsSesame Oil Market Overview1.1 Sesame Oil Market1.1.1 Sesame Oil Market Overview1.1.2 Development of Sesame Oil1.2 Market Segment1.2.1 Upstream1.2.2 Downstream1.3 Cost Analysis2 Industry Environment2.1 Policy2.2 Economics2.3 Sociology2.4 Technology3 Sesame Oil Market by Type3.1 Segment Overview3.1.1 White Sesame Oil3.1.2 Black Sesame Oil3.2 Market Size3.3 Market Forecast4 Major Companies List4.1 Kadoya (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.2 Flavor Full (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.3 Dipasa (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.4 Eng Hup Seng (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.5 Sastha Oil (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)ContinueFull Report Access -Reports Monitor is a platform to meet the market research and business intelligence requirements. Our aim is to change the dynamics of the Market Research industry by providing quality intelligence backed by data. Your requirement for market forecasting is fulfilled by our exclusive quantitative and analytics driven intelligence. Decision makers can now rely on our distinct data gathering methods to get factual market forecasting and detailed analysis. Our process is meticulously planned and executed in order to use maximum resources and explore the market for getting genuine insights.Address: Office C & D - 4th Floor, Siddhi Towers, Above Rupee Bank, Kondhwa Road, Pune 411048, Maharashtra, India Global Spectacles Lenses Market Growth Study 2017 to 2022 Nikon, Hong Chen, Essilor, HOYA, Conant Spectacles Lenses http://bit.ly/2y5fwRZ https://www.marketsresearch.biz/report/global-spectacles-lenses-market-research-report-20-121336/ Spectacles Lenses market research 2017Recent market study " Global Spectacles Lenses Market 2017" analyses the crucial factors of the Spectacles Lenses market based on present industry situations, market demands, business strategies adopted by Spectacles Lenses market players and their growth scenario. This report isolates the Spectacles Lenses market based on the key players, Type, Application and Regions.The Spectacles Lenses report provides the past, present and future Spectacles Lenses industry Size, trends and the forecast information related to the expected Spectacles Lenses sales revenue, growth, Spectacles Lenses demand and supply scenario. Furthermore, the opportunities and the threats to the development of Spectacles Lenses market are also covered at depth in this research document.Get Free Sample Here -Spectacles Lenses Market 2017: Leading Players and Manufacturers Analysis Essilor ZEISS HOYA Rodenstock MingYue Conant WanXin Chemi Nikon Hong ChenThe Spectacles Lenses market is divided into Six major geographical segments:1. Spectacles Lenses market in United States2. Spectacles Lenses market in China3. Spectacles Lenses market in Europe4. Spectacles Lenses market in Japan5. Spectacles Lenses market in Southeast Asia6. Spectacles Lenses market in India (Other Regions can be included)Initially, the Spectacles Lenses manufacturing analysis of the major industry players based on their company profiles, annual revenue, sales margin, growth aspects is also covered in this report, which will help other Spectacles Lenses market players in driving business insights.Access report:Key Emphasizes Of The Spectacles Lenses Market:- The fundamental details related to Spectacles Lenses industry like the product definition, cost, variety of applications, demand and supply statistics are covered in this report.- Competitive study of the major Spectacles Lenses players will help all the market players in analyzing the latest trends and business strategies.- The deep Analysis of Spectacles Lenses market based on development opportunities, Spectacles Lenses market growth limiting factors and feasibility of investment will forecast the market growth.The study of emerging Spectacles Lenses market segments and the existing market segments will help the readers in planning the business strategies.Finally, the report Global Spectacles Lenses Market 2017 describes Spectacles Lenses industry expansion game plan, the Spectacles Lenses industry data source, appendix, research findings and the conclusion.leading'marketsresearch.biz' is a single destination for all the industry, company and country reports. We have a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of the technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA Global Strain Gages Market 2017 - VPG, HBM, HYCSYQ, NMB Global Strain Gages Market https://goo.gl/RWHxiS https://goo.gl/Rgq8qP www.apexmarketreports.com Apex Market Reports, recently published a detailed market research study focused on the "Strain Gages Market" across the global, regional and country level. The report provides 360 analysis of "Strain Gages Market" from view of manufacturers, regions, product types and end industries. The research report analyses and provides the historical data along with current performance of the global Strain Gages industry, and estimates the future trend of Strain Gages market on the basis of this detailed study. The study shares "Strain Gages Market" performance both in terms of volume and revenue.Get Free Sample Copy of Report Here:Top Manufacturers Analysis of This ReportVPGHBMZemicYilingHYCSYQNMBKYOWALCTOmegaTMLBCMPiezo-MetricsHualanhaiThe market research report explores the Strain Gages market across the globe along with major regions and countries. The research report provides a detailed study on each and every aspect of "Strain Gages Market". The research report studies the entire value chain from raw material to end user industries. The report also shares import/export statistics along with production and consumption for all major regions and countries. Moreover, the research study classifies the Strain Gages market based on major product types, application and end users industries of Strain Gages . Besides, the report also covers geographical segmentation for Strain Gages market. The report further provides production, capacity, price per region, gross margin, production cost, for all major regions and countries listed in report.The competitive landscape of the global market for Strain Gages is determined by assessing the major industry participants, production capacity, production capacity utilization rate, Strain Gages market's production chain, pricing by each manufacturer and the revenue generated by each manufacturer in the Strain Gages market globally.Inquire Before Buying @The Global Strain Gages market 2017 is further analyzed on the basis of product pricing, Strain Gages production volume, data pertaining to demand and Strain Gages supply, and the revenue garnered by the product. The report provides upstream and downstream analysis covering major raw material used in manufacturing of Strain Gages along with detailed manufacturing sources. The report also shares list of major raw material manufacturers along with their manufacturing locations. Detailed raw material price trend analysis along with manufacturing cost analysis is also incorporated into the report. Various methodical tools such as investment returns, feasibility, SWOT analysis and market attractiveness analysis has been implemented in the research study to present a comprehensive, detailed study of the industry for Strain Gages across the world.Apex Market Reports offers elevating market research globally. We have collection of various syndicated reports of different categories. Apex Market Reports provides you to best services, weather youre searching for new trends in market or competitive scenario in emerging market.Customers can buys different reports across various categories such as Chemical and Material, Biotechnology, Healthcare, Food and beverages, Automobile and various sectors. Our Website offers safe and secure online ordering experience, convenient payment options.Frank ValadezCorporate Sales Specialist155 North Wacker Drive, Suite 4250Chicago, IL 60606Phone: +17739042683Email id - sales@apexmarketreports.comWebsite - MRI Guided Neurosurgical Ablation Market Volume Analysis, size, share and Key Trends 2016-2026 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2514 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2514 www.futuremarketinsights.com MRI-guided neurosurgical ablation uses MRI guided high intensity laser probe for the ablation of brain cancer cells. The device is designed for the treatment of brain tumors. The probe used in the system kills the target cancer cell leaving its neighbor cells unharmed. The patient undergo a surgery, a small blurr hole is created of the diameter of a pencil drilled through skull. MRI in the procedure is used to guide the probe till the target cell. The technique involves emission of highly focused thermal energy to coagulate and kill the target cancer cells. The MRI guided procedure occurs in real time so that the procedure only targets the cancer cell and leave the surrounding tissue unharmed. This is technique is used for tissue that are hard to reach region in brain. MRI guided neurosurgical ablation is usually performed in thalamus, insula and basal ganglia of brain.The technique is more useful and the patient is recovered in several days but less days as compared to the open surgery method. MRI guided Neurosurgical ablation device is used in many brain related disorders such as: Radiation resistant tumor, radiation necrosis due to earlier radiation therapy, glioblastoma multiforme, gial tumor, mesial temporal lobe epilepsy and metastatic brain cancer etc.Browse Full Report With ToC @The procedure includes a catheter in the tumor but, some cases require more than a catheter. More than one catheter is usually used to maximize the volume of tumor that can be ablated. In MRI guidance neurosurgical ablation device MRI is used to map the temperature of the patients brain while performing laser ablation. Neurosurgical ablation surgery is touted to have the highest level of accuracy. The small risk of missing target might results in causing bleeding, which can be minimized with the lasers hemostatic properties.MRI Guided Neurological Ablation Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe global MRI guided neurological ablation market is expected to be fueled by the advancement in the global image guided surgery technologies. The key drivers of the market are the increasing cases of brain tumors, growing ageing population, family history of any cancer and the changing lifestyle. As per the Globocan report in 2012, the incidence rate of brain cancer and nervous system cancer is 1.9% globally. The increasing government initiatives to diagnose and treat early stage cancers is also expected to fuel global MRI guided neurological ablation market. The lack of awareness, less experienced professionals, lack of reimbursement and high cost of MRI device due to high cost of liquid helium that used as a coolant in MRI device is expected to hinder the growth of the market.MRI Guided Neurological Ablation Market: OverviewThe ongoing advancement in the imaging technique is expected to drive the market of MRI guided neurological ablation. MRI guided Neurological Ablation system contains probes, fixation rings, MRI scanner and fixation and transport system. Laser probes are of two types directional and tip laser device. A normal laser prober contains directional fiber from where the beam of laser exit, thermo-couple, CO2 cooling tube and probe shaft. Fixation ring is removal and adjustable. Head fixation ring can be rotated and fixed for a flexible positioning of patients head. Fixation and transport system includes transfer system which is used for positioning patients head to the MRI scanner system and head ring. This device allows the surgeons for easy handling of target cancer cell in the brain and helps avoiding any harmful side effects. This advancement in in the imaging technique is increasing the usage of these systems for treatment purposes. The increasing trained surgeons and awareness among the patients is expected to increase the growth of the market. The Hospital end user segment is expected to have maximum share in the market and is also expected to remain in with the maximum share.Request For Report sample @MRI Guided Neurological Ablation Market: Regional OverviewRegion wise, the global Colonoscopy market is classified into regions namely, North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific, Japan, Middle East and Africa. North America dominated the global market for MRI guided neurological ablation due to better experts, better reimbursement and awareness among the common people followed by Europe. The growing adoption of these device by the Neurosurgeons in APEJ is also expected to drive the market.Market: Key PlayersSome of the key players in global MRI guided neurosurgical ablation market Monteris Medical Inc,MRI Interventions and Medtronic.About UsFuture 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.Contct UsFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: US Generic Drug Market 2017 - Teva, Mylan, Actavis, Sandoz, Sun Pharma, Par Pharmaceuticals http://www.imarcgroup.com/request?type=report&id=567&flag=B http://www.imarcgroup.com/us-generics-market http://www.imarcgroup.com/gcc-generic-drug-market http://www.imarcgroup.com/us-generic-injectables-market www.imarcgroup.com The US generic drug market has witnessed a steady growth in the recent years. The major factors that have added to the market growth are low investment in R&D, patent expiry of innovative drugs and cost-effectiveness of generic drugs as compared to their counterparts.Request a free sample copy of the report:The latest report by IMARC Group, titled US Generic Drug Market: Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2017-2022, finds that the US generic drug market reached a value of nearly 4 Million prescriptions in 2016, exhibiting a CAGR of 5% during 2010-2016. Over the past several years, the United States has undergone a major transformation in the pharmaceutical sector. Nearly, 80% of the total prescription drugs in the US consist of generic drugs. They are low-cost versions of the innovator drugs with same dosage, strength, risks, effects, side-effects and intended usage. Generic drugs assure that the medicines are effective and safe for the consumers. These drugs come in different forms such as oral, nebulizer, intravenous, topical and intramuscular.Highlights of the US generic drug market:Upcoming patent expiry of branded drugs is projected to boost the market growth.With low manufacturing costs, these drugs are comparatively cheaper than innovative drugs.Teva represents the leading manufacturer of generic drugs in the US.Generic drugs can only be launched by the manufacturers once the branded drugs go off-patent. Imminent patent expiry of a huge number of blockbuster innovator drugs is expected to be one of the major factors contributing to the market growth. Moreover, generic drugs require less effort in the research & development sector, thus the cost involved in the manufacturing of these drugs are lower than the branded drugs. Owing to this, generic drugs are cheaper in comparison to their counterparts, thereby making them affordable for different income groups. This helps in reducing the healthcare expenditures of the government, patients and third-party payers. Additionally, the fact that the US pharmacists are paid incentives to prescribe cheaper generic drugs has further stimulated the market growth. Other major factors fueling the growth of the market include ageing population and prevalence of chronic diseases. According to the report, the market is anticipated to reach a value of around 5 Million prescriptions by 2022.Read full report with TOC @The US generic drug market is segmented into branded and unbranded generics. Presently, unbranded generic drugs are leading the market, holding for the majority of the total generic prescription volumes. On comparing the competitive landscape of the market, the key players found are Teva, Mylan, Actavis, Sandoz, Sun Pharma, Par Pharmaceuticals, Endo Pharmaceuticals, Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Dr Reddys and Hospira. Among these, Teva represents the leading generic manufacturer in the US, accounting for around a fifth of the total generic sales.Browse related reports :GCC Generic Drug Market:US Generic Injectables Market:About UsIMARC Group is a leading market research company that offers management strategy and market research worldwide. We partner with clients in all sectors and regions to identify their highest-value opportunities, address their most critical challenges, and transform their businesses.IMARCs information products include major market, scientific, economic and technological developments for business leaders in pharmaceutical, industrial, and high technology organizations. Market forecasts and industry analysis for biotechnology, advanced materials, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, travel and tourism, nanotechnology and novel processing methods are at the top of the companys expertise.Global Cigarette Lighter MarketContact usIMARC Group309 2nd St, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USAWebsite:Email: sales@imarcgroup.comUSA: +1-631-791-1145Follow us on twitter: @imarcglobal Custom Antibody Services Market 2017-2022 Key Players: ThermoFisher, GenScript, Abcam, MBS, ROCKLAND, ProSci, Biocompare, Bio-Rad, Covance, Capra Science, Innovagen, LIFE SCIENCE GROUP, Randox, GL Biochem.. https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample_request/2017-global-custom-antibody-services-industry-research-report https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2017-global-custom-antibody-services-industry-research-report https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/2017-global-custom-antibody-services-industry-research-report The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Custom Antibody Services industry market by types, applications, players and regions. This report also displays the production, Consumption, revenue, Gross margin, Cost, Gross, market share, CAGR, and Market influencing factors of the Custom Antibody Services industry in USA, EU, China,India, Japan and other regions, and forecast to 2022, from 2017.Request a Sample Report @Market Analysis by PlayersThermoFisherGenScriptAbcamMBSROCKLANDProSciBiocompareBio-RadCovanceCapra ScienceInnovagenLIFE SCIENCE GROUPRandoxGL BiochemAbgentMarket Analysis by Regions:North AmericaEuropeChinaJapanOthersMarket Anaysis by Types:MonoclonalPolyclonalOthersMarket Analysis by Applications:BioScience CompaniesBioScience Research InstitutionsHospitalsAccess Report @Table of Content1 Custom Antibody Services Market Overview1.1 Product Overview of Custom Antibody Services1.2 Classification and Application of Custom Antibody Services1.3 Global Custom Antibody Services Market Regional Analysis1.3.1 USA Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.2 Europe Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.3 Japan Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.4 China Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.5 India Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.6 Southeast Asia Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.7 South America Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.8 South Africa Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.9 Brazil Market Present Situation Analysis1.4 Custom Antibody Services Industry Development Factors Analysis1.4.1 Custom Antibody Services Industry Development Opportunities Analysis1.4.2 Custom Antibody Services Industry Development Challenges Analysis1.5 Custom Antibody Services Consumer Behavior Analysis2 Global Custom Antibody Services Competition by Players2.1 Global Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Players2.2 Global Custom Antibody Services Revenue (Million USD) and Share by Players (2016-2017)2.3 Global Custom Antibody Services Price (USD/Unit) by Players (2016-2017)2.4 Global Custom Antibody Services Gross Margin by Players (2016-2017)3 Global Custom Antibody Services Competition by Types3.1 Global Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Types3.2 Global Custom Antibody Services Revenue (Million USD) and Share by Type (2012-2017)3.3 Global Custom Antibody Services Price (USD/Unit) by Type (2012-2017)3.4 Global Custom Antibody Services Gross Margin by Type (2012-2017)3.5 USA Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.6 China Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.7 Europe Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.8 Japan Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.9 India Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.10 Southeast Asia Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.11 South America Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.12 South Africa Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.12 Brazil Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type4 Global Custom Antibody Services Competition by Application4.1 Global Custom Antibody Services Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.2 Global Custom Antibody Services Revenue (Million USD) and Share by Application (2012-2017)4.3 Global Custom Antibody Services Price (USD/Unit) by Application (2012-2017)4.4 Global Custom Antibody Services Gross Margin by Application (2012-2017)ContinuedMake an enquiry of this Report @ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Payment Security Software Market Size, Production, Trends, Revenue & Forecast Period From 2017 - 2025 MRRSE https://www.mrrse.com/sample/3482 https://www.mrrse.com/payment-security-software-market https://www.mrrse.com/enquiry/3482 https://www.mrrse.com/ https://www.industrynewsanalysis.com/ Online payment offers a fast and cheaper medium of carrying out online transaction and online transfer. The adoption of Payment Security Software in financial services sector has gained traction. Banking sector is willing to explore opportunities which would make the banking transactions easier to process. Increased penetration of digital technology in the banking and other sectors has resulted in the development of easy to use online platforms and applications.Request For Free Sample Report:This drives the need to carry out the online transactions in a secure manner. Payment security software offers a secure medium to carry out online transactions and can help eliminate the frauds due to errors and identity theft to a large extent. Hence, the payment security sector has made tremendous investments in exploring the technology along with the wide scale deployment of the security software and systems. This technology can benefit several by offering easy, safe and secure access and exchange of money over the Internet.The demand for payment security software is expected to increase in the coming years owing to the investments in payment security software technologies, partnership between payment security software providers and financial organization, FinTech investments, and digitization across various industries globally. The payment security software market is compressive of a large number of private and public companies. The growth of payment security software startups was aided by huge venture capital investments during the period from 2013 to 2015. The market is expected to be hit by a huge wave of mergers and acquisitions in the coming years.Global Payment Security Software Market: SegmentationThis research report provides an in-depth analysis of the global payment security software market based on solution, mode of payment, end-use, and geography. The global payment security software market is categorized based on solution into software and services. The software segment is further classified into firewalls, anti-virus/anti-malware, intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), data encryption, tokenization, multi-factor authentication, Security Information and Event Management, Data Loss Prevention, and Others.The payment security market has been segmented in mobile payment security software, Point-of-Sale (PoS) systems and security, and online payment security software on the basis of mode of payment. The end-use segment consists of BFSI, retail, healthcare, government, and others. The report analyzes each of these segments for the various geographies considered under the scope of the study.Global Payment Security Software Market: Geographical OutlookBased on geographical regions, the report segments the global payment security software market into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa (MEA), and South America, which are analyzed in terms of revenue generation. The report provides country level revenue for payment security software. The U.S., Canada, Germany, Italy, France, the U.K., Japan, China India, Saudi Arabia, Africa, and Brazil are the countries covered in the report. North America is expected to lead the payment security software market during the forecast period. Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the second highest growth rate of payment security software during the forecast period. The Middle East and Africa and South America are in the early phases of adoption of the technology. The anticipated growth of banking sector in Africa is expected to support the market growth of payment security software during the forecast period.The report also provides technology evolution and Porters Five Forces Analysis for the global payment security software market. The report includes analysis of the factors that drive and restrain the growth of the payment security software market. It discusses the prevailing market trends and prospective growth opportunities in the global payment security software market. It provides market estimates and forecasts for all the segments in terms of revenue. Also provided in the report is a competitive landscape and market share analysis of the major players in the payment security software market.Browse Full Report With TOC:Global Payment Security Software Market: Competitive AnalysisMajor business strategies adopted by key players, their SWOT analysis, and competition matrix has also been identified in the research report. The key market players profiled in this study include Symantec Corporation, Intel Corporation, Cisco Systems Inc., CA, Inc., Trend Micro, Gemalto, TNS Inc., HCL Technologies, VASCO Data Security International, Inc., and Thales e-Security.The global payment security software market is segmented as below:By SolutionSoftwareFirewallsAnti-virus/anti malwareIntrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS)Data encryptionTokenizationMulti-factor authenticationSecurity Information and Event Management (SIEM)Data Loss Prevention (DLP)OthersServicesBy Mode of PaymentMobile payment security softwarePoint-of-Sale (PoS) systems and securityOnline payment security softwareBy End-useBanking, Financial Services and InsuranceRetailHealthcareGovernmentOthersBy GeographyNorth AmericaThe U.S.CanadaRest of North AmericaEuropeGermanyItalyFranceThe U.KRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaJapanIndiaRest of Asia PacificMiddle East and AfricaSaudi ArabiaAfricaRest of Middle East and AfricaSouth AmericaBrazilRest of South AmericaEnquire About this Report:About UsMarket Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of market intelligence reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting.ContactState Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY - 12207United States Telephone: +1-518-730-0559Email: sales@mrrse.comWebsite:Read More Industry News At: Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size, Status and Forecast 2022 http://globalqyresearch.com/download-sample/289081 http://globalqyresearch.com/checkout-form/0/289081 http://globalqyresearch.com/ This report studies the global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety market, analyzes and researches the Wireless Broadband in Public Safety development status and forecast in United States, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia. This report focuses on the top players in global market, likeCambium NetworksIntracom TelecomRadwinRedline communicationsProxim WirelessLigoWave (Deliberant)Netronics TechnologiesSuperCom (Alvarion Technologies)Market segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEUJapanChinaIndiaSoutheast AsiaMarket segment by Type, Wireless Broadband in Public Safety can be split intoFixed Broadband WirelessPrivate LTE NetworksDownload Sample Report Copy From Here:Market segment by Application, Wireless Broadband in Public Safety can be split intoPublic SafetyTransportationEnergyOtherIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Table of ContentsGlobal Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size, Status and Forecast 20221 Industry Overview of Wireless Broadband in Public Safety1.1 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Overview1.1.1 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size and Analysis by Regions1.2.1 United States1.2.2 EU1.2.3 Japan1.2.4 China1.2.5 India1.2.6 Southeast Asia1.3 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market by Type1.3.1 Fixed Broadband Wireless1.3.2 Private LTE Networks1.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market by End Users/Application1.4.1 Public Safety1.4.2 Transportation1.4.3 Energy1.4.4 Other2 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Competition Analysis by Players2.1 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (Value) by Players (2016 and 2017)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in Future3 Company (Top Players) Profiles3.1 Cambium Networks3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.1.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.1.5 Recent Developments3.2 Intracom Telecom3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.2.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.2.5 Recent Developments3.3 Radwin3.3.1 Company Profile3.3.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.3.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.3.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.3.5 Recent Developments3.4 Redline communications3.4.1 Company Profile3.4.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.4.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.4.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.4.5 Recent Developments3.5 Proxim Wireless3.5.1 Company Profile3.5.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.5.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.5.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.5.5 Recent Developments3.6 LigoWave (Deliberant)3.6.1 Company Profile3.6.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.6.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.6.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.6.5 Recent Developments3.7 Netronics Technologies3.7.1 Company Profile3.7.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.7.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.7.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.7.5 Recent Developments3.8 SuperCom (Alvarion Technologies)3.8.1 Company Profile3.8.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.8.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.8.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.8.5 Recent Developments4 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size by Type and Application (2012-2017)4.1 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size by Type (2012-2017)4.2 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size by Application (2012-2017)4.3 Potential Application of Wireless Broadband in Public Safety in Future4.4 Top Consumer/End Users of Wireless Broadband in Public Safety5 United States Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Development Status and Outlook5.1 United States Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (2012-2017)5.2 United States Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)6 EU Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Development Status and Outlook6.1 EU Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (2012-2017)6.2 EU Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)7 Japan Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Development Status and Outlook7.1 Japan Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (2012-2017)7.2 Japan Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)8 China Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Development Status and Outlook8.1 China Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (2012-2017)8.2 China Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)9 India Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Development Status and Outlook9.1 India Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (2012-2017)9.2 India Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)10 Southeast Asia Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Development Status and Outlook10.1 Southeast Asia Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (2012-2017)10.2 Southeast Asia Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)11 Market Forecast by Regions, Type and Application (2017-2022)11.1 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (Value) by Regions (2017-2022)11.1.1 United States Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue and Growth Rate (2017-2022)11.1.2 EU Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue and Growth Rate (2017-2022)11.1.3 Japan Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue and Growth Rate (2017-2022)11.1.4 China Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue and Growth Rate (2017-2022)11.1.5 India Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue and Growth Rate (2017-2022)11.1.6 Southeast Asia Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Revenue and Growth Rate (2017-2022)11.2 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size (Value) by Type (2017-2022)11.3 Global Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Size by Application (2017-2022)12 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Dynamics12.1 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Opportunities12.2 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Challenge and Risk12.2.1 Competition from Opponents12.2.2 Downside Risks of Economy12.3 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Constraints and Threat12.3.1 Threat from Substitute12.3.2 Government Policy12.3.3 Technology Risks12.4 Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market Driving Force12.4.1 Growing Demand from Emerging Markets12.4.2 Potential Application13 Market Effect Factors Analysis13.1 Technology Progress/Risk13.1.1 Substitutes13.1.2 Technology Progress in Related Industry13.2 Consumer Needs Trend/Customer Preference13.3 External Environmental Change13.3.1 Economic Fluctuations13.3.2 Other Risk Factors14 Research Finding/Conclusion15 AppendixMethodologyAnalyst IntroductionData SourceBuy Now This Report From Here:Global QYResearch() is the one spot destination for all your research needs. Global QYResearch holds the repository of quality research reports from numerous publishers across the globe. Our inventory of research reports caters to various industry verticals including Healthcare, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Technology and Media, Chemicals, Materials, Energy, Heavy Industry, etc. With the complete information about the publishers and the industries they cater to for developing market research reports, we help our clients in making purchase decision by understanding their requirements and suggesting best possible collection matching their needs.Unit 1, 26 Cleveland Road, South Woodford, London,E182AN, United KingdomCall: +44 20 3239 2407 Pest Control Services Global Market Share, Opportunities, Segmentation and Forecast to 2022 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/1236304-global-pest-control-services-sales-market-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/1236304-global-pest-control-services-sales-market-report-2017 www.linkedin.com/company/4828928 https://twitter.com/WiseGuyReports https://www.facebook.com/Wiseguyreports-1009007869213183/?fref=ts Geographically, this report split global into several key Regions, with sales (K MT), revenue (Million USD), market share and growth rate of Pest Control Services for these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringUnited StatesChinaEuropeJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGET SAMPLE REPORT @Global Pest Control Services market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Pest Control Services sales volume, Price (USD/MT), revenue (Million USD) and market share for each manufacturer/player; the top players includingEcolab, Inc.Rollins, Inc.Rentokil Initial PlcRentokil Initial PlcService Master Global Holdings, IncMassey Services IncArrow Exterminators Inc.Sanix IncorporatedAsante Inc.Dodson Brothers Exterminating Company IncorporatedOrkinArro-gunMosquitoNixMosquito squadRentokilMosquito-authorityOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoChemical Control ServiceMechanical Control ServiceOthersOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume, market share and growth rate of Pest Control Services for each application, includingRodent ControlInsect ControlOtherTable of Content: Key PointsGlobal Pest Control Services Sales Market Report 20171 Pest Control Services Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Pest Control Services1.2 Classification of Pest Control Services by Product Category1.2.1 Global Pest Control Services Market Size (Sales) Comparison by Type (2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Pest Control Services Market Size (Sales) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Chemical Control Service1.2.4 Mechanical Control Service1.2.5 Others1.3 Global Pest Control Services Market by Application/End Users1.3.1 Global Pest Control Services Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Rodent Control1.3.3 Insect Control1.3.4 Other1.4 Global Pest Control Services Market by Region1.4.1 Global Pest Control Services Market Size (Value) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 United States Pest Control Services Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 China Pest Control Services Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 Europe Pest Control Services Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Pest Control Services Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Pest Control Services Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 India Pest Control Services Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value and Volume) of Pest Control Services (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Pest Control Services Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Pest Control Services Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2022)2 Global Pest Control Services Competition by Players/Suppliers, Type and Application.9 Global Pest Control Services Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data9.1 Ecolab, Inc.9.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.1.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.1.2.1 Product A9.1.2.2 Product B9.1.3 Ecolab, Inc. Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.2 Rollins, Inc.9.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.2.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.2.2.1 Product A9.2.2.2 Product B9.2.3 Rollins, Inc. Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.3 Rentokil Initial Plc9.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.3.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.3.2.1 Product A9.3.2.2 Product B9.3.3 Rentokil Initial Plc Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.4 Rentokil Initial Plc9.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.4.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.4.2.1 Product A9.4.2.2 Product B9.4.3 Rentokil Initial Plc Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.5 Service Master Global Holdings, Inc9.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.5.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.5.2.1 Product A9.5.2.2 Product B9.5.3 Service Master Global Holdings, Inc Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.6 Massey Services Inc9.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.6.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.6.2.1 Product A9.6.2.2 Product B9.6.3 Massey Services Inc Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.7 Arrow Exterminators Inc.9.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.7.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.7.2.1 Product A9.7.2.2 Product B9.7.3 Arrow Exterminators Inc. Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.8 Sanix Incorporated9.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.8.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.8.2.1 Product A9.8.2.2 Product B9.8.3 Sanix Incorporated Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.8.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.9 Asante Inc.9.9.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.9.2 Pest Control Services Product Category, Application and Specification9.9.2.1 Product A9.9.2.2 Product B9.9.3 Asante Inc. Pest Control Services Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.9.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinuedACCESS 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.WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Global Atherectomy Devices Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 - 2022 MRRSE https://www.mrrse.com/sample/3609 https://www.mrrse.com/enquiry/3609 https://www.mrrse.com/atherectomy-devices-market https://www.mrrse.com/ A new report added to the repository of Market Research Reports Search Engine, Atherectomy Devices Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 - 2022 is a comprehensive repository of information, providing market share, size, and forecast.Request for Sample Report:The global market for atherectomy devices is highly dynamic. The continual advancements in technologies has been boosting this market significantly. With the increasing incidence rate of peripheral artery disease (PAD) among people across the world, the market is anticipated to continue its growth streak over the next few years.The report estimates and forecasts the atherectomy devices market on the global, regional, and country levels and provides forecast between 2017 and 2022. It comprises an in-depth value chain assessment for each of the product segments and offers a comprehensive view of the market. The value chain assessment also offers a detailed and thorough information regarding the value addition at each of the stages. It further offers an assessment of the influential factors that shape the performance of the global atherectomy devices market currently and in the forecast period. It also present key indicators that affect the growth of the market negatively.Further, it analyzes the opportunities in the atherectomy devices market on the global and regional level. The driving forces, restraining factors, and opportunities mentioned in the research study are justified through qualitative and quantitative data and have been verified using primary and secondary resources. Moreover, the substitute analysis of atherectomy devices and the analysis of the average price trend, globally, has also been included in this study.Global Atherectomy Devices Market: SegmentationsThe study provides a comprehensive view of the global atherectomy devices market by assessing it on the basis of the type of devices, end user, application, and the geography. By the type of devices, the market is classified into directional devices, rotational devices, orbital devices, and laser devices. Based on the end user, the market is bifurcated into hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). In terms of application, the market is categorized into cardiovascular, neurovascular, and peripheral vascular atherectomy devices. Regionally, the market is segmented into North America, the Middle East and Africa (MEA), Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), and Japan. These segments have been assessed on the basis of the present, historical, and future trends.Make an Enquiry:The report includes qualitative write-up on the market attractiveness analysis, in which the end users and countries have been evaluated on the basis of attractiveness for each of the regions. The growth rate, availability of raw materials, market size, profit margin, strength of the impact, competition between players, technology utilized, and various other environmental and legal factors have been evaluated in order to derive the general attractiveness of the market. The research report also examines the price trends for atherectomy devices between 2017 and 2022.The report covers detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and profiles of key players operating in the global market. The main players profiled in the report include Boston Scientific Corp., Cardiovascular Systems Inc., Medtronic Plc, Spectranetics Corp., Terumo Corp., Avinger Inc., and Royal Philips NV. The company profiles consist of various attributes, such as overview of the company, overview of the brand, business overview, key competitors, number of employees, recent developments, business strategies, tactical alliances, and the financial overview.In-depth discussions and interviews with a number of market experts and industry participants have been conducted to for the compilation of this research report. The primary research represents a bulk of research efforts, supported with extensive secondary research. The product literature, press releases, annual reports, and relevant documents of key participants have been reviewed for the competitive analysis and the understanding of the market. The websites of the company, financial reports, broker reports, investor presentations, annual reports, and SEC filings are the main secondary research sources utilized in performing this research.Browse Full Report with TOC:About UsMarket Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of Market Research Reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting.ContactState Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY 12207United States Telephone: +1-518-730-0559Email: sales@mrrse.comWebsite:- Mobile Accessories Market Poised for Rapid Growth with CAGR 6% and Global Key Players: Samsung, Sony, Panasonic, Apple, Bose, Griffin Technology https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1908 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/mobile-accessories-market Market Research Future published a research report on Mobile Accessories Market Research Report- Global Forecast 2022 Market Analysis, Scope, Stake, Progress, Trends and Forecast to 2022.Market Synopsis of Mobile Accessories MarketMarket Scenario:The rapid proliferation of smartphones and other handheld mobile devices with a strong distribution network has spurred the Mobile Accessories Market globally. The increasing disposal income and rising urbanization across regions such as Latin America and Asia-Pacific has fuelled the market of mobile devices as well as mobile accessories. The demand for mobile accessories are increasing due to the high consumption of smartphone in emerging economies such as China, India and Brazil among others.Get Sample of Report @Mobile phone accessories include protective cases, headphones or earphones, power bank chargers, memory cards, batteries, and portable speakers. The demand of protective accessories such as tampered glasses, and screen guards is increasing to protect smartphones from physical damage. The growing demand for wireless mobile accessories such as Bluetooth headsets, wireless charger among others is one of the crucial trends that is driving the market of mobile accessories. The increasing adoption of E-commerce and E-banking have triggered the demand for mobile devices worldwide that in turn is further contributing to the growth of mobile accessories market.Hence the market for Mobile Accessories is expected to grow at US ~$104 billion by end of 2022 with CAGR of ~6% between years 2016 to 2022.However, the user preference over mobile accessories and Security issues in online shopping are some of the restraining factor in Mobile Accessories Market.Key PlayersThe prominent players in the market of Mobile Accessories are- Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Sony Corporation (Japan), Panasonic Corporation (Japan), Apple Inc. (U.S.), JVC Kenwood Corp. (Japan), Plantronics, Inc. (U.S.), Bose Corporation (U.S.), Griffin Technology (U.S.), Otter Products, LLC (U.S.), Sennheiser Electronics GmbH & Co. KG (Germany) among others.Segments:Global Mobile Accessories Market has been segmented on the Basis of Products, Distribution Channel and Price Range. The Product includes Headphone/earphone, Protective Cases, Power Bank, Portable Speakers among others. Distribution Channel are Online, Offline among Others. Price Range include Premium, Medium, and Low.Study Objective of Mobile Accessories MarketTo provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Mobile Accessories MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo analyze the Mobile Accessories 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 technology, by type 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 Mobile Accessories Market.Get complete Report @Regional AnalysisAsia-Pacific is dominating the market of Mobile Accessories Market due to the high number of smartphone and other handheld devices in regions such as China and India. Growing mobile phone users and internet based activities such as online shopping in this region are also contributing in the growth of Mobile Accessories market. North America is the second largest Mobile Accessories Market due to the high adoption of smartphone users and internet based services in this region. Europe is expected to register healthy growth in the Mobile Accessories Market due to increasing demand of mobile phones and mobile accessories.Intended AudienceAccessories ManufacturersSmartphone Accessories SuppliersPhone case and display protector manufacturersE-commerce and RetailPortable battery manufacturersAbout 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.Media Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Monostarch Phosphate Market Forecast and Segments, 2017 2027 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-3835 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-3835 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com Monostarch phosphate is produced by integrating orthophosphate acid substituents with monostarch. It is one of the segments of modified starch used in various food products such as low-calorie margarine, milkshakes, food concentrates, thermized cottage cheese, puddings, cold jelly desserts, dressings, sauces, and soups. Monostarch phosphate with the salts of sodium triphosphate, potassium phosphate, or sodium phosphate or phosphorous acid and is used to reduce retrogradation. Retrogradation is a reaction which takes place when the amylopectin or amylose chains is cooked. The North America monostarch phosphate market accounts for relatively high revenue share, followed by Western Europe monostarch phosphate market. Whereas, Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a relatively high growth rate over the forecast period, owing to the increasing consumption of food products in the region.Global Monostarch Phosphate Market: DynamicsThe important factor driving the global monostarch phosphate market includes growing industry such as food and pharmaceutical across the globe. Monostarch phosphate reduces retrogradation reaction, which is also expected to fuel the global monostarch phosphate market, over the forecast period. However, adverse effect of monostarch phosphate in terms of excessive usage in a food product might use such as kidney abnormality, thereby restraining the global monostarch phosphate market growth. The significant trending factor for global monostarch phosphate market includes merger and acquisition with end-use industry. The company manufacturing monostarch phosphate products has a significant opportunity in regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, attributed to rapidly growing food and pharmaceutical industry over the forecast period.Global Monostarch Phosphate Market: SegmentationThe global monostarch phosphate market is segmented by end-use industry, application, and by region. By end-use, the global monostarch phosphate market is classified as the food and the pharmaceutical industry. Among the aforementioned segments, the food industry segment accounts for relatively high revenue share in the global monostarch phosphate market over the forecast period, owing to high demand for confectioneries and bakery products followed by pharmaceutical industry.Request Report Sample@Based on the end-use Industry, the global monostarch phosphate market is segmented into:Food IndustryPharmaceutical IndustryOther IndustriesBased on the application, the global monostarch phosphate market is segmented into:Thickening AgentOther ExcipientGlobal Monostarch Phosphate Market: Regional OverviewBy geographies, the global monostarch phosphate market is segmented into seven regions -- North America, Western Europe, Asia-Pacific except Japan (APEJ), Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East & Africa, and Japan. Among the regions, North America dominates the global monostarch phosphate market in terms of value, owing to a significant revenue share of the region in the food additive market. Western Europe is followed by North America in the global monostarch phosphate market, attributed to high demand for confectioneries and bakery products in the region. The APEJ is expected to account for relatively high volume share in the global monostarch phosphate market, owing to rapidly growing food and pharmaceutical industry over the forecast period. Eastern Europe and Japan also accounts for a relatively low-value share in the global monostarch phosphate market. Latin America and Middle East Africa is expected to have a moderate opportunity for the monostarch phosphate market, owing to the moderately growing economy and industries across the regions. Overall, the outlook for the global monostarch phosphate market will have a positive growth over the forecast period.Visit For TOC@Global Monostarch Phosphate Market: Key PlayersFew of the monostarch phosphate market players include Cargill Inc., Ingredion Inc., Archer-Daniels-Midland Co., KMC, Global Bio-Chem Technology Group Co. Ltd., Penford Corp., Banpong Tapioca Flour Industrial Co Ltd., China Essence Group Ltd., Tate and Lyle Plc., Avebe U.A., Ulrick and Short Ltd., and Universal Starch Chem Allied.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: New Market Research Report Announced on Oil and Fat Substitutes Market ; Global Industry Analysis 2017-2022 https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1336431 https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1336431 https://www.researchmoz.us/global-oil-and-fat-substitutes-market-research-report-2017-report.html http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG https://marketinfo247.wordpress.com/ Albany, NY, 17th October : Recent research and the current scenario as well as future market potential of "Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Market Research Report 2017" globally.In this report, the global Oil and Fat Substitutes 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 Oil and Fat Substitutes in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGet PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @Global Oil and Fat Substitutes market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingCargillADMKerry GroupFMC CorporationDupontIngredionKoninklijke DSMAshland Inc.CP KelcoTate & LyleCorbionFiberstar, Inc.On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoBy TypeCarbohydrate-basedProtein-basedLipid-basedBy FormPowderLiquidBy SourcePlantAnimalOn 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 Oil and Fat Substitutes for each application, includingBakery & Confectionery ProductsDairy & Frozen DessertsConvenience Foods & BeveragesSauces, Dressings, and SpreadsOthersMake an Enquiry about TOC @Table of Contents1 Oil and Fat Substitutes Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Oil and Fat Substitutes1.2 Oil and Fat Substitutes Segment By Type1.2.1 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Production and CAGR (%) Comparison By Type (Product Category)(2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Production Market Share By Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Carbohydrate-based1.2.4 Protein-based1.2.5 Lipid-based1.3 Oil and Fat Substitutes Segment By Form1.3.1 Powder1.3.2 Liquid1.4 Oil and Fat Substitutes Segment By Source1.4.1 Plant1.4.2 Animal1.5 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Segment by Application1.5.1 Oil and Fat Substitutes Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.5.2 Bakery & Confectionery Products1.5.3 Dairy & Frozen Desserts1.5.4 Convenience Foods & Beverages1.5.5 Sauces, Dressings, and Spreads1.5.6 Others1.6 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Market by Region (2012-2022)1.6.1 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.6.2 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.7 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.7 Global Market Size (Value) of Oil and Fat Substitutes (2012-2022)1.7.1 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.7.2 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)Browse Report @2 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Oil and Fat Substitutes Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.4 Manufacturers Oil and Fat Substitutes Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Oil and Fat Substitutes Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Oil and Fat Substitutes Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Oil and Fat Substitutes Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, ExpansionResearchMoz 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 : Automotive Sensors Market Share, Emerging Opportunities and Top Vendors: Panasonic, Analog Devices, Avago Technologies, Bourns, Denso, Infineon Technologies, Micronas Semiconductor, TRW Automotive https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/959 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/automotive-sensors-market Market Research Future published a research report on Global Automotive Sensors Market Research Report - Forecast 2011 To 2021 Market Analysis, Scope, Stake, Progress, Trends and Forecast to 2021.Market Synopsis of Automotive Sensors MarketMarket ScenarioSensors can be broadly defined as devices used to detect fluctuations/changes in the working environment, and initiate an appropriate & predefined output. Automotive sensors are sensors such as pressure, temperature, motion, and position sensors which are used across the key end-point applications within an automobile, viz. chassis, power train, and body system. The count of sensors used in automobiles has increased significantly, owing to the increasing demand of safety and environmental concerns both from the perspective of governmental agencies and consumers. The market for global automotive sensors is projected to grow at a CAGR of about 8-9% during the forecast period.Get Sample of Report @Study Objectives of Automotive Sensors Market:To 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 Automotive Sensors MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo Analyze the Global Automotive Sensors 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-Pacific, and Rest of the WorldTo 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 type, by vehicle type, and by technologyTo 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 Automotive Sensors MarketKey PlayersThe key players profiled and analyzed in this market research report are Analog Devices Inc., Avago Technologies, Bosch Sensortech GmBH, Bourns Inc., Delphi Automotive LLP, Denso Corporation, GE Measurement & Control Solutions, Infineon Technologies, Micronas Semiconductor Inc., Panasonic Corporation, Sensata Technologies, TRW Automotive Inc., and Vishay Intertechnology.Key FindingsDriving trends such as miniaturization and rising disposable income of middle class population are expected to provide a huge boost to the automotive sector thereby, driving the demand for automotive sensors marketFactors such as unfledged aftermarket services, and constantly intensifying price competitiveness is hampering the market growthAsia-Pacific market is expected to experience the fast growth as compared to other regions within the automotive sensors marketSegments:The market has been majorly segmented on the basis of type which includes; temperature, pressure, motion, position, optical, gas, level, torque, and mass air flow sensors. The market has been categorized in terms of technology into Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (NEMS), and others. The market has also been segmented on the basis of vehicle types into low end, medium end, high end, heavy vehicle, and electrical vehicles.Get Complete Report @AmericaNorth AmericaU.S.CanadaMexicoEuropeGermanyItalyUKRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaRest of Asia-PacificRest of the WorldThe report for Global Automotive Sensors 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 regionsAbout 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.Media Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Predictions for 2017: Global Aluminum Ore Industry is set to Boom QYResearchReports https://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1343354&type=E https://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1343354&type=D http://www.qyresearchreports.com Qyresearchreports include new market research report Global Aluminum Ore to its huge collection of research reports.This given report on the global Aluminum Ore market, is a result of a research conducted by a group of market research analysis experts with an aim to act as a reliable business material for stake holders. The report offers information on the current market scenario and the prospects that may arise in future as well. Use of well proven research methodologies is done in generating this report which offers both qualitative and quantitative analysis of all the aspects that may influence the growth of the global Aluminum Ore market. The potential of lesser factors of the Aluminum Ore market can be evaluated by analysing its multiple segments such as products, end users, types, application, services, and others, whichever are applicable. The report also inspects the future scenarios of Aluminum Ore market in all the important regions across the world, such as North America, Latin America, Middle East and Africa (MEA), Asia Pacific, and Europe. The market potential of the Aluminum Ore of each region is provided by examining their related policies government, growth prospects, and demand percentage.Get free sample copy of the report at:The report of the global Aluminum Ore market gives out the estimation of the market size in terms of its value (USD million). Bottom-up as well as top-down approaches are applied in the report to project and confirm the size of the global Aluminum Ore market and of its different other sub-segments.One of the important features of the study report is the company profiling chapter, where several leading players of the Aluminum Ore market have been inspected. Moreover, the competitive landscape of the global Aluminum Ore market is researched along with identification of chances of upcoming players that are present in the market. The report give out some of the prominent companies in the global Aluminum Ore market and inspects their tactical decisions such as mergers, collaborations, and acquisitions, new product announcements, and investments. Crucial information about the companies such as market share, business sales price, margin, and revenue generation, are provided in the research report.To check available discount on this report, visit at:Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Aluminum Ore in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGlobal Aluminum Ore market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingRusal Armenal(RussiaTinto Group AUHUCK(US)Hydro Aluminium NorwayDUBAL DubaiBHP Billiton AUBharat Aluminium BahrainCHALCO CNChina Electric Investment Group CNShandong Xinfa Aluminum CNYunnan AluminiumJiangsu Alcha AluminiumHenan Mintai AluminumJiaozuo Wanfang Aluminum ManufacturingSumitomo Metal Mining Company(JP)On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoHard Diaspore MonohydrateSoft Diaspore MonohydrateGibbsiteOn 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 Aluminum Ore for each application, includingConstruction IndustryTransportation IndustryPackaging IndustryElectronic ElectricalList of Tables and FiguresFigure Picture of Aluminum OreFigure Global Aluminum Ore Production (K MT) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Types (Product Category) (2012-2022)Figure Global Aluminum Ore Production Market Share by Types (Product Category) in 2016Figure Product Picture of Hard Diaspore MonohydrateTable Major Manufacturers of Hard Diaspore MonohydrateFigure Product Picture of Soft Diaspore MonohydrateTable Major Manufacturers of Soft Diaspore MonohydrateFigure Product Picture of GibbsiteTable Major Manufacturers of GibbsiteFigure Global Aluminum Ore Consumption (K MT) by Applications (2012-2022)Figure Global Aluminum Ore Consumption Market Share by Applications in 2016Figure Construction Industry ExamplesTable Key Downstream Customer in Construction IndustryFigure Transportation Industry ExamplesTable Key Downstream Customer in Transportation IndustryFigure Packaging Industry ExamplesTable Key Downstream Customer in Packaging IndustryFigure Electronic Electrical ExamplesTable Key Downstream Customer in Electronic ElectricalFigure Global Aluminum Ore Market Size (Million USD), Comparison (K MT) and CAGR (%) by Regions (2012-2022)Figure North America Aluminum Ore Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure Europe Aluminum Ore Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure China Aluminum Ore Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure Japan Aluminum Ore Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)...About QYReseachReports.comQYReseachReports.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:Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-618-1030Web:Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com EMEA Sleeping Pillow Market by Type and Application, Forecast To 2022 Sleeping Pillow Market https://www.marketresearchnest.com/emea-sleeping-pillow-market-by-manufacturers-regions-type-and-application-forecast-to-2022.html https://www.marketresearchnest.com/purchase.php?reportid=270085 https://www.marketresearchnest.com/requestsample.php?reportid=270085 MarketResearchNest.com adds EMEA Sleeping Pillow Market by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 new report to its research database. The report spread across in a 116 pages with table and figures in it.A pillow is a support for the head used while sleeping on a bed, couch, or chair. The pillow is a kind of sleep tool. Generally, the pillow could provide sleep comfort. From the understanding of modern medical research, human spine is a straight line from the front view, but three physiological curves from the side view. In order to protect the normal physiological neck bending protection, pillow should be used when sleeping.Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Sleeping Pillow in EMEA market, covering Europe, Middle East and Africa, This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, regions, type and application.Browse full table of contents and data tables atMarket Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversHollander, American Textile, MyPillow, Tempur-Pedic, Pacific Coast, Serta, Standard Fiber, Paradise Pillow, Latexco,Czech Feather and Down, Wendre, Pacific Brands, RIBECO, Dunlopillo, John Cotton, JAHVERY, Luolai, FUANNA, SINOMAX, Mendale, AiSleep, Beyond Group, Noyoke, L-Liang.Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis coversEurope (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Turkey), Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Israel, UAE and Iran),Africa (South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt and Algeria).Market Segment by Type, coversFoam, Memory Foam, Latex, Wool/Cotton, Down/Feather, Polyester, Others.Market Segment by Applications, can be divided intoResidential, Hotel, Hospital, Nursing Home, School, Others.Order a Purchase Report Copy atThere are 13 Chapters to deeply display the EMEA Sleeping Pillow market.Chapter 1, to describe Sleeping Pillow Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Sleeping Pillow, with sales, revenue, and price of Sleeping Pillow, 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 EMEA market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Sleeping Pillow, for each region, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5, 6, 7, to analyze the market by regions, manufacturers, type and application, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions;Chapter 8 and 9, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 10, Sleeping Pillow market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 11, 12 and 13, to describe Sleeping Pillow research findings and conclusion, sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, appendix and data sourceRequest a sample copy atAbout Us:MarketResearchNest.com is the most comprehensive collection of market research products and services on the Web. We offer reports from almost all top publishers and update our collection on daily basis to provide you with instant online access to the worlds most complete and recent database of expert insights on Sleeping Pillow industries, organizations, products, and trends.Contact UsMr. Jeet JainSales Managersales@marketresearchnest.com+1-240-284-8070(U.S)+44-20-3290-4151(U.K)Connect with us: Google+ | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook Explored In Latest Research Of Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market 2017 https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1336432 https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1336432 https://www.researchmoz.us/global-petroleum-fuel-dyes-market-research-report-2017-report.html http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG https://marketinfo247.wordpress.com/ Albany, NY, 17th October : Recent research and the current scenario as well as future market potential of "Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market Research Report 2017" globally.In this report, the global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes 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 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGet PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingJohnson Matthey (Tracerco)The Dow Chemical CompanyBASF SESGS SAInnospecMarquard & BahlsPylam Products Company, Inc.John Hogg Technical SolutionsSBZ CorporationUnited Color Manufacturing, Inc.Spectronics CorporationMid Continental ChemicalOrganic Dyes and PigmentsOrient Chemical (Korea) Ltd.American Gas & Chemical Co. Ltd.Authentix, Inc.AXI InternationalAxyntis GroupRodanco BVSunbelt CorporationOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoBy Physical TypePowderLiquidBy TechnologyWater SolubleSolvent SolubleBy Product TypeAzo DyesAnthraquinone DyesEthyl DyesFluorescent DyesOthersMake an Enquiry about TOC @On 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 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes for each application, includingRefineriesCommercialInstitutionalTable of Contents1 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Petroleum-Fuel Dyes1.2 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Segment By Physical Type1.2.1 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Production and CAGR (%) Comparison By Physical Type (Product Category)(2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Production Market Share By Physical Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Powder1.2.4 Liquid1.3 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Segment By Technology1.3.1 Water Soluble1.3.2 Solvent Soluble1.4 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Segment By Product Type1.4.1 Azo Dyes1.4.2 Anthraquinone Dyes1.4.3 Ethyl Dyes1.4.4 Fluorescent Dyes1.4.5 Others1.5 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Segment by Application1.5.1 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.5.2 Refineries1.5.3 Commercial1.5.4 Institutional1.6 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market by Region (2012-2022)1.6.1 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.6.2 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.6.7 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.7 Global Market Size (Value) of Petroleum-Fuel Dyes (2012-2022)1.7.1 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.7.2 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)Browse Report @2 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.4 Manufacturers Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Petroleum-Fuel Dyes Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, ExpansionResearchMoz 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 : Test Automation Market : Key Players and Production Information analysis with Forecast 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=1907 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=1907 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=1907 Global Test Automation Market: OverviewThe emergence of test automation has been the biggest boon to the IT sector. This software development tool has thoroughly helped the sector in optimizing test processes, reducing time, and bringing in efficiency. Functional testing, web services testing, compatibility testing, load testing, security testing, mobile testing, and QA process design among others. The growing expenditure on development of the IT sector for improving their software services, QA, and other applications are expected to nurture the growth of the global test automation market.Global Test Automation Market: Drivers and TrendsThe research report states that the rapid development of mobile applications is expected propel the growth of the global market in the recent years. Uptake of mobile applications in communications, multimedia travel, and utilities is expected to fuel the rise of this market in the near future. Analysts expect that the usage of cloud applications is also expected to improve the revenue earnings for the global test automation market. The growing awareness about deploying test automation amongst the IT sector has been a definite positive influence on the overall market.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Despite the steady market drivers, the global test automation market is likely to face a few challenges such as high operating costs and high initial investments. However, emergence of newer and better technologies such as cloud computing services, big data analytics, and data virtualizations are expected to offer several lucrative opportunities to the global market.Global Test Automation Market: Market PotentialMobile Labs Introduced its deviceConnect Hosted Cloud, a solution for QA professionals and developers to efficiently manage their mobile testing lab. This will allow organizations to pick a well-suited mobile device cloud that caters to their need. The deviceConnect Hosted Cloud and deviceConnect On-premises Cloud and are private cloud-based mobile application testing platforms. The primary aim of these products is to ensure simple management of multiple devices for the purpose of enterprise application testing. The only difference between the two is who is managing these devices and where are they being hosted.Request TOC of the Report @Global Test Automation Market: Regional OutlookIn terms of geography, the global test automation market is fragmented into Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Of these, North America is projected to lead the global market in the coming years due to a growing base of QA units in various organizations in a wide range of industrial verticals. Analysts expect that functional testing segment will dominate the region in the near future. Additionally, the rising investments in upgrading the current automation testing tools is also projected to drive the regional markets growth.North America will also aid the progress of security testing segment during the forecast period. The high adoption of mobile applications and Software as a Service (SaaS) on cloud will be the primary growth drivers for test automation in North America. Analysts expect that Asia Pacific will also offer lucrative growth opportunities to the global test automation market in the near future as the IT sector witness tremendous growth. The growing investments of foreign firms in the IT sector of various developing countries of Asia Pacific are expected to propel the regional markets growth.Get Discount @About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Smart Lighting Market Size, Comprehensive Analysis, Business Strategy and Future Estimations 2021 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/960 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/global-smart-lighting-market SUMMERY:Market Research Future published a research report on Global Smart Lighting Market Research Report - Forecast to 2021 Market Analysis, Scope, Stake, Progress, Trends and Forecast to 2021.Market Synopsis of Smart Lighting MarketMarket ScenarioIntelligent lighting systems are being widely touted as the future of the lighting industry. With the massive proliferation of lighting fixtures such as LEDs and others in the market, the smart lighting industry is set to dominate a plethora of applications ranging from commercial to outdoor applications. The market for global Smart Lighting is expected to reach up to $ 59.973 billion by the end of the forecasted period and is expected to grow at a CAGR of ~19-21%.The major factors contributing to the growth of the Smart Lighting market are driven by continuously declining average selling price (asp) of led bulbs and influx of smart apps, internet of things and remote access & control by software providers.Get Sample of Report @Study Objectives of Smart Lighting Market:To 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 Smart Lighting MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo Analyze the Global Smart Lighting 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-Pacific, and Rest of the WorldTo 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 type, by vehicle type, and by technologyTo 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 Smart Lighting MarketKey PlayersAura Lights(Sweden), Cree (US), Crompton Greaves (India), Digital Lumens (US), Eyelighting International (US), Ge Lighting (US), Havells Sylavania (India), Koninkiljke Philips Nv (Netherland), Ledzed (Finland), Lemnis Lighting (Netherland) and others.Key FindingsThe Europe Smart Lighting market is expected to report the highest CAGR during the forecasted period among all the regions; whereas, Asia Pacific will remain the largest market in 2021.In terms of components, sensors had the largest share in the global Smart Lighting market, and it is expected to grow at the highest CAGR among all the materials during the forecast periodSegments:Global Smart Lighting market has been segmented on the basis of lighting type which comprises of led, fluorescent lights, compact fluorescent lamps, and high intensity discharged lamps. The Smart Lighting market is further divided into components which include sensors, relays and timers, actuators and ballasts. On the basis of application which consists of commercial applications, residential applications, other applications (smart street lighting, institutional, etc.)Get Complete Report @AmericaNorth AmericaS.CanadaLatin AmericaEuropeWestern EuropeGermanyFranceSpainItalyUKRest of Western EuropeEastern EuropeAsia PacificAsiaChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaRest of Asia-PacificPacificThe Middle East & AfricaThe report for Global Smart Lighting Markets 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.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.Media Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Global Waterproofing Chemicals Market To Remain Positive With A CAGR Of 5.10% Over The Period From 2016 To 2024 And Reach A Value Of US$12.3 bn Waterproofing Chemicals Market http://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=896006 http://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=896006 http://www.researchmoz.us/ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Waterproofing Chemicals Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2016 - 2024" to its huge collection of research reports.Global Waterproofing Chemicals Market: OverviewWaterproofing Chemicals are a class of fine/specialty chemicals which arrest or inhibit permeability of water or moisture to interior or exterior surfaces of wide range of materials e.g. cement/ concrete walls, fabrics, leather articles, paper, electronic goods etc. It is applied mainly in form of sheet membranes, cementitious coating, liquid coating membranes, sprays and coatings etc. The major product types include bitumen, EPDM, TPO, PVC, PTFE and silicone, while the end use applications include Construction, Infrastructure, Automotive, Textile & Leather and others.Global Waterproofing Chemicals Market: Scope of the ReportThe report estimates and forecasts the waterproofing chemicals market on the global, regional, and country levels. The study provides forecast between 2016 and 2024 based on volume (Kilo Tons) and revenue (US$ Mn) with 2015 as the base year. The report comprises an exhaustive value chain analysis for each of the product, technology and end use segments highlighting the process and the key participants involved. Value chain analysis also offers detailed information about value addition and profit margins earned at each stage. The study includes market dynamics i.e. drivers, restraints, opportunities and trends for the waterproofing chemicals market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. The study also provides key market indicators affecting the growth of the market. The report analyzes opportunities in the waterproofing chemicals market on the global and regional level. Drivers, restraints, and opportunities mentioned in the report are justified through quantitative and qualitative data. These have been verified through primary and secondary resources. Furthermore, the report includes waterproofing chemicals global average price trend analysis and regional market trend analysis as well.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The report includes Porters Five Forces Model to determine the degree of competition in the waterproofing chemicals market. The report comprises a qualitative write-up on market attractiveness analysis, wherein end-users and countries have been analyzed based on attractiveness for each region. Growth rate, market size, profit margin, impact strength, technology, competition, end use applications and other factors (such as environmental and legal) have been evaluated in order to derive the general attractiveness of the market. The report comprises price trend analysis for waterproofing chemicals between 2016 and 2024.Global Waterproofing Chemicals Market: SegmentationThe study provides a comprehensive view of the waterproofing chemicals market by dividing it into product, technology, end-user and geography segments. The waterproofing chemicals market has been segmented into bitumen, TPO, EPDM, PVC, Silicone and PTFE based on product. Application segment have been analyzed based on historic, present, and future trends.Regional segmentation includes the current and forecast demand for waterproofing chemicals in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Additionally, the report comprises country-level market sizing in terms of volume and revenue under each respective region. Key countries such as the U.S., Germany, the U.K., Spain, GCC, India, China, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil, etc. have been included in the study. Market segmentation includes demand for individual applications in all the regions and countries.Global Waterproofing Chemicals Market: Competitive DynamicsThe report covers detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and profiles of key players operating in the global market. The companies included in this reports are major global/regional players which are catering to all types of end use markets such as Construction, Automotive, Leather, Textile, Electronics etc. such as Archroma Management LLC in textiles and Liquipel LLC in electronics .Key players profiled in the report include The Dow Chemical Company, BASF SE, E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Akzo Nobel NV, Evonik Industries, Wacker Chemie GmbH, W.R. Grace and Company and Other major market players. Prominent regional company profiles have also been mentioned such as Pidilite Industries Limited, MUHU (China) Construction Materials, RPM International Inc. etc. The Company profiles include attributes such as company overview, number of employees, brand overview, key competitors, business overview, business strategies, recent/key developments, acquisitions, and financial overview (wherever applicable). Competitive Analysis as well as SWOT analysis of top companies have been provided in this report.Global Waterproofing Chemicals Market: Research MethodologySecondary research sources that were typically referred to include, but were not limited to company websites, financial reports, annual reports, investor presentations, broker reports, and SEC filings. Other sources such as internal and external proprietary databases, statistical databases and market reports, news articles, national government documents, and webcasts specific to companies operating in the market have also been referred for the report.The primary research sources consists of key officials from the companies mentioned in competition landscape, other mid-small size company representatives, industry experts, volunteers from industrial associations etc. In-depth interviews and discussions with a wide range of key opinion leaders and industry participants were conducted to compile this research report. Primary research represents the bulk of research efforts, supplemented by extensive secondary research. Key players product literature, annual reports, press releases, and relevant documents were reviewed for competitive analysis and market understanding. This helped in validating and strengthening secondary research findings. Primary research further helped in developing the analysis teams expertise and market understanding.The global waterproofing chemicals market has been segmented as follows:Waterproofing chemicals Market Product Analysis- Bitumen- TPO- EPDM- PVC- PTFE- SiliconeWaterproofing chemicals Market Technology Analysis- Sheet Membrane- Liquid Coated Membrane- Cementitious Waterproofing- OthersWaterproofing chemicals Market End Use Analysis- Construction- Infrastructure- Automotive- Textile and Leather- OthersWaterproofing chemicals Market Regional Analysis- North America- U.S.- Canada- Europe- Germany- France- U.K.- Italy- Spain- Rest of Europe- Asia Pacific- China- India- Japan- ASEAN- Rest of Asia Pacific- Middle East & Africa- GCC- Egypt- South Africa- Rest of Middle East & Africa- Latin America- Brazil- Mexico- Rest of Latin AmericaMake an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.ResearchMozState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @ Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) Market- Present Scenario and Growth Prospects 2017 - 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=383 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=383 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=383 Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) Market: OverviewInternet protocol television is considered as an effective technology that offers several television services through a packet-switched network although remaining within a large number of internet protocol suites. With the tremendous rise in the online traffic, the need for internet protocol television is expected to rise substantially, thus encouraging the overall development of the market. Moreover, the growth in the internet video advertising is expected to accelerate the growth of the global internet protocol television market over the next few years.Furthermore, the emergence of new technology and advanced products are estimated to generate promising growth opportunities for the leading players operating in the internet protocol television market in the near future. The lack of verification of effective locations for servers and the lack of proper accounting are estimated to curtail the growth of the market in the coming years. In addition, the rising need to meet the customer preference is considered to act as a major barrier for the development of the market.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Nonetheless, the growing need of consumers for high-quality and reliable online experience is likely to offer growth opportunities in the near future. Moreover, the rise in the use of internet and the advent of mobile CDN is estimated to accelerate the markets growth in the near future. The developed economies across the globe are expected to offer lucrative benefits for the market players, whereas the rising population in developing economies is likely to fuel the development of the global internet protocol television market over the next few years.Global IPTV Market: SnapshotIPTV stands for Internet protocol television, a technology that delivers television services over a packet-switched network while remaining within the Internet protocol suites. With IPTV, smaller batches of media can now be streamed directly on customers devices in smaller batches. As per the International Telecommunication Union, IPTV functions over an IP-based network that enable high level of security, quality of service, reliability, and interactivity. With the widespread outreach of the Internet and direct to home (DTH) services, and technological advancements in interactive television, the global market for IPTV is projected for a robust growth rate during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025.Request TOC of the Report @Broadly, there are three types of services offered by IPTV: live television, time-shifted television, and video on-demand (VOD). Live television is streaming of current events broadcast on television while time shifted services allows used to replay the content after delays. VOD refers to services wherein customers select a video of choice from a catalog of videos offered by the service providers. Major components involved to deliver IPTV services include TV head-end, interactive portal, VOD platform, home gateway, delivery network, and set-top box. The two basic types of architectures used for delivering IPTV are distributed architecture and centralized architecture. IPTV is implemented using several protocols such as H.263 for video compression, modified discrete cosine transform (MDCT) for audio compression, and Real-time Protocol (RTP) for live streaming and VOD.Global IPTV Market: Trends and ProspectsDTH services have gain immense popularity in the recent past, which is clearly reflecting on increased demand for VOD services. Additionally, IPTV offer value added services such as e-mail, voicemail and others, which is further fueling the market. Moreover, several telecommunication services have entered the IPTV market recently, including Verizon, Vodafone, and British Telecom. These new entrants with strong financial background are expected to escalate the level of competition, which will eventually lead to reduced cost to the consumers and thereby increase the demand in the global IPTV market. However, for the proper functioning of IPTV, minimum bandwidth required is around 10 mbps of high speed Internet connectivity, which is not available all across the globe. This is the solitary restraint over the growth rate of the global IPTV market, although the effect of this factor is expected to reduce over the duration of forecast period as several next-generation spectrums are being launched by several governments.Get Discount @Global IPTV Market: Segment AnalysisIPTV market can be segmented on the basis of end-users and geography. Corporate consumers and individual consumers comprise end-users. Currently, corporate consumers serve the maximum demand but, with improving network infrastructure, the segment of individual consumers will also escalate significantly during the forecast period. Geographically, the report studies the lucrativeness of the regional markets of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and rest of the world. Though the developed countries in North America and Europe are currently serving the maximum demand, vast population base in Asia Pacific is expected to surge ahead in terms of demand towards the end of the forecast period.AT&T, Cablevision, China Telecom, Comcast, Bharti Airtel Limited, Reliance Communications Limited, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, British Telecom, Deutsche Telecom, Etisalat, France Telecom, Telecom Malaysia, NTT DOCOMO, Telenor, Verizon, and Vodafone are some of the key players currently operational in global IPTV market.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Global Light Curing Equipment Market: By Product Type - LED Light Sources & UV Curing and Visible Light Curing Sources Market Research Report https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1336423 https://www.researchmoz.us/global-light-curing-equipment-market-research-report-2017-report.html http://www.researchmoz.us/ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Light Curing Equipment Market: By Product Type - LED Light Sources & UV Curing and Visible Light Curing Sources" to its huge collection of research reports.In this report, the global Light Curing Equipment 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 Light Curing Equipment in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGlobal Light Curing Equipment market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players including3MHenkelOMRONDymax CorporationAmerican UltravioletNordsonIncure Inc.Excelitas Technologies CorpTangent Industries Inc.LoctiteOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoLED Light SourcesUV Curing and Visible Light Curing SourcesTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @On 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 Light Curing Equipment for each application, includingElectronicsMedicalOpticalPrinted Circuit BoardGeneral IndustriesTable of ContentsGlobal Light Curing Equipment Market Research Report 20171 Light Curing Equipment Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Light Curing Equipment1.2 Light Curing Equipment Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Light Curing Equipment Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Light Curing Equipment Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 LED Light Sources1.2.4 UV Curing and Visible Light Curing Sources1.3 Global Light Curing Equipment Segment by Application1.3.1 Light Curing Equipment Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Electronics2 Global Light Curing Equipment Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Light Curing Equipment Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Light Curing Equipment Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Light Curing Equipment Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Light Curing Equipment Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Light Curing Equipment Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)Browse More Details @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @ 4K TVs Industry: Future Demand, Market Analysis & Outlook to 2022 4K TVs Industry https://www.qyresearchgroups.com/request-sample/559364 https://www.qyresearchgroups.com/report/global-4k-tvs-market-professional-survey-report-2017-d-1298 https://www.qyresearchgroups.com/check-discount/559364 https://www.qyresearchgroups.com/send-an-enquiry/559364 The Global 4K TVs Market Research Report 2017 renders deep perception of the key regional market status of the 4K TVs Industry on a Global level that primarily aims the core regions which comprises of continents like Europe, North America, and Asia and the key countries such as United States, Germany, China and Japan.Request for sample of 4K TVs Market research report @The report on Global 4K TVs Market is a professional report which provides thorough knowledge along with complete information pertaining to the 4K TVs industry a propos classifications, definitions, applications, industry chain summary, industry policies in addition to plans, product specifications, manufacturing processes, cost structures, etc.The potential of this industry segment has been rigorously investigated in conjunction with primary market challenges. The present market condition and future prospects of the segment has also been examined. Moreover, key strategies in the market that includes product developments, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, etc., are discussed. Besides, upstream raw materials and equipment and downstream demand analysis is also conducted.Report Includes:-The report cloaks the market analysis and projection of 4K TVs Market on a regional as well as Global level. The report constitutes qualitative and quantitative valuation by industry analysts, first-hand data, assistance from industry experts along with their most recent verbatim and each industry manufacturers via the market value chain. The research experts have additionally assessed the in general sales and revenue generation of this particular market. In addition, this report also delivers widespread analysis of root market trends, several governing elements and macro-economic indicators, coupled with market improvements as per every segment. Furthermore, the report contains diverse profiles of primary market players of 4K TVs Market.This report focuses on top manufacturers in global market, with production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer, covering:Samsung, LG, SONY, Sharp, Panasonic, Toshiba, Seiki (Tongfang), Hisense, Skyworth, Changhong, TCL,Konka, Philips(Suning), HaierOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into:55 Inch, 65 Inch, OthersBy Application, the market can be split into:Residential, CommercialBy Regions, this report covers (we can add the regions/countries as you want):North America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan, IndiaDetailed TOC and Charts & Tables of 4K TVs Market Research Report available @The report is generically segmented into six parts and every part aims on the overview of the 4K TVs industry, present condition of the market, feasibleness of the investment along with several strategies and policies. Apart from the definition and classification, the report also discusses the analysis of import and export and describes a comparison of the market that is focused on the trends and development. Along with entire framework in addition to in-depth details, one can prepare and stay ahead of the competitors across the targeted locations. The fact that this market report renders details about the major market players along with their product development and current trends proves to be very beneficial for fresh entrants to comprehend and recognize the industry in an improved manner. The report also enlightens the productions, sales, supply, market condition, demand, growth, and forecast of the 4K TVs industry in the Global markets.Every regions market has been studied thoroughly in this report which deals with the precise information pertaining to the Marketing Channels and novel project investments so that the new entrants as well as the established market players conduct intricate research of trends and analysis in these regional markets. Acknowledging the status of the environment and products up gradation, the market report foretells each and every detail.So as to fabricate this report, complete key details, strategies and variables are examined so that entire useful information is amalgamated together for the understanding and studying the key facts pertaining the Global 4K TVs Industry. The production value and market share in conjunction with the SWOT analysis everything is integrated in this report.Check for Discount @Table of ContentsGlobal 4K TVs Market Professional Survey Report 20171 Industry Overview of 4K TVs1.1 Definition and Specifications of 4K TVs1.1.1 Definition of 4K TVs1.1.2 Specifications of 4K TVs1.2 Classification of 4K TVs1.2.1 55 Inch1.2.2 65 Inch1.2.3 Others1.3 Applications of 4K TVs1.3.1 Residential1.3.2 Commercial1.3.3 Application 31.4 Market Segment by Regions1.4.1 North America1.4.2 China1.4.3 Europe1.4.4 Southeast Asia1.4.5 Japan1.4.6 India2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of 4K TVs2.1 Raw Material and Suppliers2.2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of 4K TVs2.3 Manufacturing Process Analysis of 4K TVs2.4 Industry Chain Structure of 4K TVsEnquiry before Buying @About Us:QY Research Groups 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. QY Research Groups 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 world's most complete and current database of expert insights on Global industries, companies, products, and trends.Contact us:Jia Wang, Room B1510, ShijiKemao Building, No.66,Zhongguancun East Road,Haidian District, Beijing, 100190,China Calcium Citrate Malate Market Trends and Segments 2017 2027 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-3865 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-3865 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com Calcium plays a significant component of the body. Calcium helps to maintain and promote the proper functioning of various body parts such as bones, joints, nerves and muscles among others. Deficiency of calcium content in the body directly affects the bone and joint health. Calcium citrate malate is an important component which helps to replenish the calcium content in the body. Calcium citrate malate consists calcium and organic acids such as malic acid and citric acid, which help to increase the absorption of calcium in the body. Calcium citrate malate along with vitamin D helps to prevent bone and joint diseases, as it helps to retain calcium and maintain the bone mass density along with other health benefits. Moreover, calcium citrate malate can suffice requirement of calcium with or without adequate food intake. Calcium citrate malate is most commonly used as calcium supplements. It also forms major component in fortification of food and beverages.Global Calcium Citrate Malate Market: Drivers and RestraintsWith increasing health conscious behaviour, consumers are drifting towards healthier food products. Hence, driving the calcium citrate malate market with growing application in health supplements. Calcium citrate malate has potential to reduce the risk of fractures. Hence, with increasing incidence of bone related diseases among women such as osteoporosis, demand for products to overcome osteoporosis is expected to gain traction, which is expected to bolster the overall calcium citrate malate market growth. Moreover, calcium citrate malate also possess various other significant properties such as high aqueous solubility, enhanced bioavailability along with increased absorption, thus finding profound application in the manufacturing of health supplements and fortified food and beverages products.Furthermore, with increasing demand for bone & joint supplements among geriatric population, the demand for calcium citrate malate is expect to accelerate during the forecast. Calcium citrate malate market caters to broad range of age groups to various optimal health benefits. Moreover, calcium citrate malate is also reported to cater potential to help in preventing kidney stones. Although still this benefit is at introductory stage. Hence gaining traction in the health supplements market due to its versatile nature.However, there are various other compound apart from calcium citrate malate by which calcium can be incorporated into food and beverages product in fortified form, which are cost efficient. Hence, may restrain the growth of calcium citrate malate market particularly in fortified food and beverages products. It is also reported to have certain side effects if consumed in excessive amount such as constipation, nausea, weight loss and loss of appetite.Request Report Sample@Global Calcium Citrate Malate Market: SegmentationOn the basis of form, calcium citrate malate is segmented into:-TabletsCapsulesPowderOn the basis of industry, organic hair care s market is segmented into:-PharmaceuticalFood & BeverageGlobal Calcium Citrate Malate Market: Region wise OutlookThe global calcium malate market is categorised into seven regions, namely, Western Europe, Eastern Europe Middle East and Africa (MEA), Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Japan, Latin America and North America. Asia Pacific region accounts for major share of the market. With increasing incidences of bone related disease among women, demand for calcium citrate malate supplements is expect to record significant growth. North America accounts for significant share of the market. As majority of the population in North America comprises baby boomer generation, attaining the age of 55yrs in the recent years. Thereby, fuelling the demand for bone & joint supplements to prevent the age related diseases. This is further leading to a bright prospect for growth of calcium citrate malate market. Owing to rising preventive health awareness among consumers, demand for calcium citrate malate products is expected to propel in Europe.Visit For TOC@Global Calcium Citrate Malate Market: Key PlayersSome of the prominent players identified in the global calcium malate market across the value chain includes:Panvo Organics Pvt Ltd.GlaxoSmithKline PlcRevital LimitedAlbion Laboratories, Inc.Posy Pharmachem Pvt. Ltd.BioveaNutraBio Labs, Inc.Dr. Paul Lohmann GmbH KGABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: Military Aerospace Engine Market Growth by 2022- Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Trends, Key Vendors, Drivers and Forecast https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request-sample/?post=387686 https://www.reportsmonitor.com/make-enquiry/?post=387686 http://www.reportsmonitor.com Military Aerospace Engine Market Report communicates about the manufacturing process. The process is analysed thoroughly with respect three points, viz. raw material and equipment suppliers, various manufacturing associated costs (material cost, labour cost, etc.) and the actual process of whole Enterprise Military Aerospace Engine market. The Enterprise Military Aerospace Engine Industry research report is a resource, which provides technical and financial details of the Enterprise Military Aerospace Engine Market (Volume and Value).Military Aerospace Engine refers to the engine used in military aerospace. Military aircraft are heavy-duty machines built for extreme stresses and breathtaking maneuvers. Accordingly, the requirements imposed on engines are very stringent.Get Sample PDF of Military Aerospace Engine Market Report @Military Aerospace Engine Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers: GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls Royce, Safran Aircraft Engines, Klimov, MTU Aero Engines, ITP.In this introductory section, the Military Aerospace Engine industry research report incorporates analysis of definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure.Military Aerospace Engine Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis covers: Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Turkey)Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Israel, UAE and Iran)Africa (South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt and Algeria).Military Aerospace Engine Market Segment by Type covers: Jet Engines, Turbine Engines, Others.Military Aerospace Engine Market Segment by Applications covers: Fighter Aircraft, Transport Aircraft, Helicopters2.Pre Order Enquiry for Military Aerospace Engine Market report @Next part of Military Aerospace Engine Market Research Report contains additional information like key vendors in Market space, Military Aerospace Engine Market opportunities and threats faced by the vendors in the Military Aerospace Engine Market , opportunities, market risk and market overview.The process is analysed thoroughly with respect three points, viz. raw material and equipment suppliers, various manufacturing associated costs (material cost, labour cost, etc.) and the actual process.Apart from the mentioned information, growth rate of Military Aerospace Engine markets in 2022 is also explained. Additionally, type wise and application wise consumption tables and figures are also given.About UsReports Monitor (ReportsMonitor.com) is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. Our aim is to change the dynamics of the Market Research industry by providing quality intelligence backed by data. Your requirement for market forecasting is fulfilled by our exclusive quantitative and analytics driven intelligence. We have a vast collection of reports, covering maximum industries in EMEA. Our process is meticulously planned and executed in order to use maximum resources and explore the market for getting genuine insights. The prime focus is to get reliable data, Decision makers can now rely on our distinct data gathering methods to get factual market forecasting and detailed analysis.Contact UsJay MatthewsDirect: +1 513 549-5911Email: sales@reportsmonitor.comWebsite: Allergy Immunotherapy In Global Market From 2017 To 2021: Key Players - ALK-Abello, Allergy Therapeutics, Merck Group & Stallergenes Market Research Report https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1345393 https://www.researchmoz.us/global-allergy-immunotherapy-market-2017-2021-edition-report.html http://www.researchmoz.us/ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Allergy Immunotherapy In Global Market From 2017 To 2021: Key Players - ALK-Abello, Allergy Therapeutics, Merck Group & Stallergenes" to its huge collection of research reports.The report titled Global Allergy Immunotherapy Market (2017-2021 Edition), provides an in-depth analysis of the global allergy immunotherapy market by value, by methods of administration, by region, etc.The report provides a regional analysis of the allergy immunotherapy market, including the following regions: the US, Europe and Rest of the World.Growth of the overall global allergy immunotherapy market has also been forecasted for the period 2017-2021, taking into consideration the previous growth patterns, the growth drivers and the current and future trends.The key players of the allergy immunotherapy market ALK-Abello, Allergy Therapeutics, Merck Group and Stallergenes, who are also profiled with their financial information and respective business strategies.Country CoverageThe USEuropeRest of the WorldCompany CoverageALK-AbelloAllergy TherapeuticsMerck GroupStallergenesTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Executive SummaryAllergy refers to a condition in which the immune system abnormally reacts to the foreign substance. The foreign substance could be in the form of particular food, pollen, pets, metals, fur, dust, etc. to which the body becomes hypersensitive when comes into contact. The foreign substance that triggers the hypersensitive response in the body is known as an allergen. Generally, most substances that cause allergies are normally harmless to the human body and have no effect on the vast majority of people that are not allergic. Allergy is not a disease, it is a mere over-reaction of body to the foreign substance that is not harmful. To diagnose an allergy skin test, blood test and allergy component tests are undertaken. Allergies are generally seasonal and perennial in nature.Allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a form of long-term treatment that decreases symptoms for many people with allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, conjunctivitis (eye allergy) or stinging insect allergy. Immunotherapy involves exposing people to larger and larger amounts of allergen in an affect to change the immune system's response. Allergy immunotherapy is an established treatment for severe allergies such as allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma. The allergy immunotherapy can be classified on the basis of method of administration: subcutaneous (SCIT), sublingual (SLIT-tablets/drops) and whole allergen.The global allergy immunotherapy market has increased at a significant CAGR during the years 2012-2016 and projections are made that the market would rise in the next four years i.e. 2017-2021 tremendously. The allergy immunotherapy market is expected to increase due to growth in healthcare expenditure, rising incidence of chronic diseases and increasing global pollution, etc. Yet the market faces some challenges such as, lack of treatment awareness, lack of investor confidence, anaphylaxia, huge treatment costs, etc.Browse More Details @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @ North America Plastic Food Containers Market boosting the growth: Market dynamics and trends, efficiencies Forecast 2022 https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request-sample/?post=387657 https://www.reportsmonitor.com/make-enquiry/?post=387657 http://www.reportsmonitor.com Plastic Food Containers Market Report is analysed thoroughly with respect three points, viz. raw material and equipment suppliers, various manufacturing associated costs (material cost, labour cost, etc.) and the actual process of whole Enterprise Plastic Food Containers market.This report studies the Plastic Food Containers market. Plastic Food Containers are container that holds food. Many products use low-density polyethylene formed into plastic bags, plastic boxes, Cans and Jars, plastic cans or plastic jars.Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Plastic Food Containers Market in North America, especially in United States, Canada and Mexico. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, countries, type and application.Get Sample PDF of Plastic Food Containers Market Report @Plastic Food Containers Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers: Bemis, Sealed Air Corporation, Wihuri, Coveris, Lock&Lock, Huhtamaki, Sabert, Printpack, Visy Proprietary Limited, Tupperware, Silgan, Consolidated Container, Reynolds, PakPlast, LINPAC Packaging, Chuo Kagaku.In this introductory section, the Plastic Food Containers industry research report incorporates analysis of definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure.Plastic Food Containers Market Segment by Type covers: Storage Containers, Takeaway Containers, Cups and Bottles, Cans and Jars.Plastic Food Containers Market Segment by Applications covers: Meat, Vegetables and Fruits, Deli and Dry Product, Others.Pre Order Enquiry for Plastic Food Containers Market report @Next part of Plastic Food Containers Market Research Report contains additional information like key vendors in Market space, Plastic Food Containers Market opportunities and threats faced by the vendors in the North America Plastic Food Containers Market , opportunities, market risk and market overview. The process is analysed thoroughly with respect three points, viz. raw material and equipment suppliers, various manufacturing associated costs (material cost, labour cost, etc.) and the actual process.The next part also sheds light on the gap between supply and consumption. Apart from the mentioned information, growth rate of Plastic Food Containers markets in 2022 is also explained. Additionally, type wise and application wise consumption tables and figures are also given.About UsReports Monitor (ReportsMonitor.com) is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. Our aim is to change the dynamics of the Market Research industry by providing quality intelligence backed by data. Your requirement for market forecasting is fulfilled by our exclusive quantitative and analytics driven intelligence. We have a vast collection of reports, covering maximum industries worldwide. Our process is meticulously planned and executed in order to use maximum resources and explore the market for getting genuine insights. The prime focus is to get reliable data, Decision makers can now rely on our distinct data gathering methods to get factual market forecasting and detailed analysis.Contact UsJay MatthewsDirect: +1 513 549-59387657Email: sales@reportsmonitor.comWebsite: Zonal Isolation Market Will Reflect Significant Growth Prospects during 2017-2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=1370 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=1370 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=1370 Global Zonal Isolation Market: SnapshotZonal isolation is an indispensable method of primary cementing by enabling production or stimulation operations to be conducted efficiently in wells. The method has gained prominence in mature field developments and is vital to the success of drilling operations. Effective zonal isolation is found to be helpful in improving the wells producing potential by bring down the construction cost and minimizing the risk, thereby improving wellbore integrity. The process essentially prevents the cross-flow of gas, oil, and fluids across diverse geographical layers. With the growing complexity of oil wells, zonal isolation has become more than splitting the reservoir into compartments.The process of primary cementing encapsulates the use of cement sheath to provide primary zonal isolation in the annulus with a marked bonding and strength. This leads to restricting the fluid movement across the formations and support the casing. Cementing also helps in protecting the casing from any type of corrosion and from shock loads in case of a deeper drilling. Various applications of zonal isolation are gas shutoff, openhole testing, selective stimulation, acidizing, and plugging. The surge in interest in offshore basins among oil and gas exploration and production companies is accentuating the zonal isolation market. The rising shale gas exploration, especially in developed regions, and a constant rise in the number of drilling rigs are key factors boosting the demand for zonal isolation methods and the associated well construction technologies.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Global Zonal Isolation Market: OverviewZonal isolation is a method being used extensively across the globe in order to prevent the cross flow of gas and oil across diverse geographical layers. The increasing demand for drilling activities in oil and gas plants is considered as one of the major aspects fuelling the growth of the global zonal isolation market in the next few years.Furthermore, the rising investments by governments and private organizations for drilling activities and exploration of new oil and gas reserves are predicted to supplement the growth of the overall market and generate lucrative opportunities for key players.Global Zonal Isolation Market: Key TrendsThe preferential shift of production and exploration activities from onshore to offshore is one of the major factors boosting the demand for zonal isolation method across the globe. In addition, a tremendous rise in the drilling activities and the growing awareness among consumers regarding the benefits of implementing these methods are likely to accelerate the growth of the global zonal isolation market throughout the forecast period.Request TOC of the Report @On the other hand, stringent government rules and regulations for the use of zonal isolation methods are anticipated to restrict the growth of the global market in the next few years. Nonetheless, the development of innovative and advanced zonal isolation methods is expected to create promising growth opportunities for the key players operating in the global market.Global Zonal Isolation Market: Market PotentialThe rising production and exploration of oil and gas wells, especially in offshore fields across the globe is anticipated to boost the demand for zonal isolation in the near future. The increasing shale gas exploration and a substantial rise in the number of drilling rigs in order to meet the growing demand for crude oil are anticipated to fuel the growth of the market.Some of the key countries that are projected to contribute extensively towards the robust growth of the global zonal isolation market are Saudi Arabia, Canada, the U.S., Mexico, Russia, the UAE, Brazil, China, and Iran.Get Discount @Global Zonal Isolation Market: Regional OutlookAmong the key regional segments, Europe is expected to witness a strong growth throughout the forecast period. The U.K. and Norway are considered to contribute extensively towards the growth of the Europe zonal isolations market in the next few years. In addition, the increasing production and rising investments in exploration activities are projected to encourage the growth of the market in the forecast period.Furthermore, the Middle East and Africa and North America are expected to witness a healthy growth in the next few years. A substantial rise in the number of drilling activities and the increasing expenditure for the search of new oil and gas reserves are projected to fuel the growth of the zonal isolation market in North America and the Middle East and Africa throughout the forecast period.Global Zonal Isolation Market: Competitive AnalysisThe global market for zonal isolation is competitive in nature and is anticipated to witness a participation of several new players in the next few years. The growing focus of key players on research and development activities in order to provide innovative methods to consumers is anticipated to encourage the growth of the overall market in the next few years. Additionally, the rising number of strategic collaborations is predicted to augment the growth of the market in the near future.Some of the leading players operating in the zonal isolation market across the globe are Schlumberger Limited, Superior Energy Services, Expro International Group Holdings, Oilsery, Archer, Baker Hughes, TAM International, Inc., C&J Energy Services, Inc., FMC Technologies, Weatherford International, Halliburton Company, and Tendeka.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Gene Editing Market- Trends, Price, Share and Growth Rate from 2017 to 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=638 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=638 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=638 Global Gene Editing Market: SnapshotGene editing or genome editing is the targeted insertion or modification of cells in living organism or cells and the method has come to occupy a crucial part of biomedical researches, constantly transforming various disciplines of life sciences. Over the past few years, continuous advancements in gene-editing technologies have led to the advent of several versatile methods, which have enabled investigators to introduce a number of sequence-specific changes into the genomes of a variety of cell types. This has facilitated the discovery of promising human gene therapies proving useful for treating various diseases. The use of targeted nucleases or engineered nucleases in laboratories has provided researchers potential tools to economically and rapidly manipulate almost any genomic sequence for a broad range of cell types.In recent years, gene editing techniques have been witnessed a paradigmatic shift with the advent of methods such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9), zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), and transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs). Using these technologies, investigators have been successful in generating a wide spectrum of outcomes, which are likely to prove useful in diverse areas as synthetic biology, disease modeling, neurosciences, and drug discovery. For instance, targeted nuclease have enabled the insertion of targeted DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). This has led to the activation of DNA repair pathways in various cells. In vivo applications of various gene editing tools, however, suffer from noticeable constraints. For instance, nuclease delivery or expression can be enabled only in diseased cells, thereby limiting potential of the market to an extent. Nevertheless, constant engineering advances are being made which will expectedly lay robust groundwork for expanding the current array of genome-modifying tools.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Global Gene Editing Market: OverviewGene editing involves the insertion, deletion, or replacement of DNA at specific sites in the genome of a cell or an organism. It is usually achieved in a laboratory environment using molecular scissors.Regulations for the security of life, well-being of plants and animals, human health, and environmental compliance will influence market players for increased focus on import, export, and commercialization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).The report is an all-important tool to comprehend the various factors and growth trends that will influence the growth of the gene editing market between 2017 and 2025. The market study is a collective of facts and factoids that are associated with the global gene editing market in a chronological order. The analysis of past data and current market trends enable research analysts to present a satisfactory conclusion regarding the markets future. Thus, the analysis presented in the report can be used to devise successful business strategies for the future. Using standard analytical tools such as Porters Five Forces and SWOT analysis, the report presents the indices of strength, weakness, opportunities, and threats of the global gene editing market until the end of the forecast period in 2025.Request TOC of the Report @Global Gene Editing Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe increasing expenditures on research and development, growth of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and rising demand for synthetic genes are the major factors driving the global gene editing market.The increasing prevalence of infectious diseases, cancer, and other genetic disorders is steering the growth of the gene editing industry. Moreover, the increasing demand for personalized medicine and advancement of medical science is propelling the industrys demand.However, strict government regulations to receive approval for mutation undertakings and lack of public awareness will challenge the growth of the gene editing market. Government regulations for assessing the medical benefits as well as the potential hazards of gene editing procedure will benefit the growth of this market.Get Discount @Global Gene Editing Market: Market SegmentationThe global gene editing market can be analyzed on the basis of technology, end user, application, and region. In terms of technology, the market can be segmented into CRISPR, ZFN, TALEN and others. On the basis of application, the global gene editing market can be divided into cell line engineering, plant genetic engineering, animal genetic engineering, and others. By end user, the market can be segmented into biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, and academic and government institutes.Global Gene Editing Market: Regional OutlookThe global gene editing market can be divided into the regional segments of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World. The U.S. gene editing market is expected to display robust growth due to growth trend manifested by biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies and adoption of advanced technologies such as CRISPR for treating chronic hereditary diseases.In Europe, the U.K. is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the gene editing market in this region. This is mainly due to the rising geriatric population and increasing incidence of chronic diseases. The Asia Pacific gene editing market is expected to display fast growth rate in the coming years. The rising geriatric population, modernization of healthcare practices, technological advancements, and government initiatives for controlling diseases are fuelling the growth of the Asia Pacific gene editing market.South Africa is expected to contribute significantly to the revenue of its regional market. The rising prevalence of sickle cell anemia, HIV, hemophilia and several forms of cancer will drive the industrys growth.Major Companies Mentioned in ReportThe report mentions and profiles some of the top companies in the global gene editing market, namely Agilent Technologies, AstraZeneca, Cellectis, Editas Medicine, Dharmacon, Qiagen, Sigma-Aldrich, Allele Biotech, Bio Rad, CRISPR Therapeutics, GE Healthcare, Lonza, Recombinetics, and Thermo Fisher Scientific.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Liquid Packaging Bag Market 2017 2027 Shares, Trend and Growth Report https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-3873 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-3873 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com Liquid packaging bag is a flexible form of packaging catering to the needs of efficient packaging in various industries such as beverage, lubricant, homecare, etc. liquid packaging bag is commonly used for packaging of liquid or viscous forms of fluids. Liquid packaging bags are not only useful in efficient packaging, storing, transporting, of liquids but are also convenient for marketing and utilizing the liquid while retaining the integrity of the product. Liquid packaging bag are either reusable or non-reusable allowing customer to use the product frequently and efficiently by letting the customer to remove desired amount of product from the packaging. Liquid packaging bag can be customized, according to the need of the liquid it is enclosing, by altering the barrier properties using the combination of different materials for packaging. Innovative designs and styles of liquid packaging bag can improve the marketability and shelf life of the product by improving the aesthetic value and maintaining the integrity of the product.Liquid Packaging Bag Market: Market DynamicsInnovations in flexible packaging market to attract customers have led to the invention of liquid packaging bag. Flexible packaging market is estimated to be US$ 238 billion and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% over the forecast period. Increasing consumer preference for procuring of the product in smaller quantity is motivating packaging manufacturers to use liquid bag form of packaging. The low input cost associated with the liquid packaging bag can be a reason for the manufacturers of various industries to adapt for liquid packaging bag while propelling the demand in liquid packaging bag market. On the backdrop of convenience being offered to the end users for utilizing the liquid products the liquid packaging bag market is expected to move vertically upwards. However, the inability of the liquid bag packaging to protect the product from physical shocks can limit the growth in liquid packaging bag market. The risk of packaging getting compromised in case of chemically reactive liquid can hamper the liquid packaging bag market. Moreover, the presence of the substitutes such as cartons which are cheap and efficient as liquid packaging bags can be a threat for liquid packaging bag market. The cost reduction in packaging and shipping process due to smaller carbon foot print and less void spaces between the units can create future opportunities for liquid packaging bag market.Request Report Sample@Liquid Packaging Bag Market: Market segmentationLiquid packaging bag market is segmented by the types of materials used and end use industry.Based on the types of materials used, liquid packaging bag market is segmented into:PlasticPETHDPEPPPVCMetalized filmsBased on the end use industry liquid packaging bag market is segmented into:Beverage PackagingIndustrial packagingLubricant packagingConsumer packagingHomecare packagingLiquid Packaging Bag Market: Regional OutlookRegionally global liquid packaging bag market is segmented intoNorth AmericaLatin AmericaEastern EuropeWestern EuropeAsia-Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ)Middle East & Africa (MEA)JapanVisit For TOC@APEJ region is expected to lead the liquid packaging bag market over the forecast period as the region accounts for the largest share in liquid packaging bag market. North America is expected to follow the APEJ region in liquid packaging bag market owing to its huge contribution of about 25% to the flexible packaging market. Western and Eastern Europe and Japan is also expected to contribute significantly in terms of revenue owing to their high per capita expenditure on packaging. While MEA and Latin America region is expected to contribute least in liquid packaging bag market.Liquid Packaging Bag Market- Key Players:Some major players of the liquid packaging bag market are Packman Industries, DS Smith Packaging Limited, Global-Pak, Inc, Amcor Limited, CDF Corporation, Uflex Ltd., Aran Group, Hood Packaging Corporation, Danqing Plastic Packaging & Printing Co., Ltd., Shenzhen Winld Packaging Material Ltd., Dongguan Yason Pack Co., Ltd, Ruijin Xinchen Technology Co., Ltd., Wenzhou Kiwim Plastic Packaging Co., Ltd., and Jiangyin Huawen Flexible Packaging Co., Ltd.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: Germany Automotive Parts Aluminium & Magnesium Die Casting Market Report 2017, Trends, Analysis, Share, Estimates and Forecasts to 2022. http://www.strategymrc.com/report/germany-automotive-parts-aluminium-magnesium-die-casting-market-outlook http://www.strategymrc.com/report/germany-automotive-parts-aluminium-magnesium-die-casting-market-outlook The Germany Automotive Parts Aluminium & Magnesium Die-Casting report provides an in-depth analysis of the various market segments and its sub-segments.Product types Covered: Pressure die casting Semi-solid die casting Squeeze die casting Vacuum die castingApplications Covered: Body assemblies Engine Parts Transmission parts OthersFor More, Please Visit:The report focuses on current and upcoming market trends such as Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, and Challenges, technological advancements, Porters Five Forces analysis to assess the intensity of competition in the market. The market values are presented in the form of tables and graphs for better interpretation.Market Size EstimationsThe market assessment is made by the core industry experts using our 360 research approach. The data is derived from the most reliable, authenticated data sources and is validated by the industry experts (Primary Research). Both top down and bottom up analysis are implemented to enhance the accuracy of the market figures. The market projections are calculated for the next 8 years using the actual market numbers of previous year as the base year.Company ProfilingThis section provides the overview of the key players that are leading in the industry, covering their business operations, financials, list of products & services, SWOT analysis, major developments such as mergers & acquisitions, agreements, partnerships, joint ventures, new product launch, expansions etc.Report Highlights:- Market share assessments for all the mentioned market segments and sub-segments- Market share analysis of the top industry players- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants- Market forecasts for a minimum of 8 years for all the given segments- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations- Competitive landscaping, mapping the key common trends- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancementsFor More, Please Visit:We offer wide spectrum of research and consulting services with in-depth knowledge of different industries. We are known for customized research services, consulting services and Full Time Equivalent (FTE) services in the research world. We explore the market trends and draw our insights with valid assessments and analytical views. We use advanced techniques and tools among the quantitative and qualitative methodologies to identify the market trends. Our research reports and publications are routed to help our clients to design their business models and enhance their business growth in the competitive market scenario. We have a strong team with hand-picked consultants including project managers, implementers, industry experts, researchers, research evaluators and analysts with years of experience in delivering the complex projects.STRATISTICS MRC17049 King James Way, Gaithersburg,MD, 20877, USA Doubts To Clarify With Your Surgeon Before You Choose To Sit For A VASER Liposuction Procedure Harley Body Clinic Logo https://www.harleybodyclinic.co.uk VASER liposuction represents the latest innovation in the field of cosmetic surgery where people can now get hold of and enjoy the body shape they had always desired. VASER is short for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance where ultrasonic energy is used for loosening the fat tissues before the fat is eventually removed with the help of specially designed cannula. Though it has received FDA approval it remains a comparatively modern technique up against traditional fat removal surgery so it is always best to clarify doubts with a surgeon before deciding to sit for the procedure. It is recommended that you have all your doubts cleared before settling for the surgeon and deciding to sit through the procedure.The first and foremost question to be asked is whether a candidate is suitable for undergoing VASER liposuction. Though a large number of patients have been able to enjoy this treatment thus far, an alternate treatment may be recommended based on the body type and health situation of the patient in question.Where is the procedure going to be performed?VASER liposuction is traditionally performed in the office of the surgeon, hospital, or a surgery center.What is the kind of anesthesia that will be used?While undergoing VASER liposuction, the patient could opt for either general anesthesia or localized anesthesia.How many areas of the body can be treated simultaneously?The surgeon may specify certain number of areas that need to undergo treatment and the highest amount of fat that can be removed on every treatment.For how long does the post-operative swelling last?The swelling may occur even four months after the surgery has been conducted. However, if you think there is something unusual about the swelling you are experiencing, get in touch immediately with your physician. Try to stay away from strenuous activities if you want to enjoy a speedy recovery.When will the tight skin appear after undergoing a VASER liposuction?VASER is the latest in the field of medicines that implements ultrasound technology for liquefying the fatty cells. This results in less damage to the tissues as compared to traditional liposuction procedures. As a result, it has been found that this gives better skin tightening with VASER liposuction procedure.When do the results become noticeable?Since VASER liposuction fat removal procedure is characterized by minimal swelling and bruising, noticeable improvements start appearing with immediate effect. However, the final outcome of the treatment usually becomes visible after three months.What is the VASER liposuction cost?For those keen on treating their inner thighs and abdominal flanks the cost tends to be a little on the expensive side. Some good research is necessary here as the VASER liposuction cost tends to vary considerably.Harley Body Clinic specializes in VASER Liposuction and provides free of cost consultation for the first seeking customer. To know more about us, visit our website atHarley Body Clinic(Subsidiary of Harley Cosmetic Group)61 Harley StreetLondon W1G 8QU Global Acrylate Monomers Market 2017 2025: Market Segments, Size, Trend and Market projections for upcoming years https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/1345438 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/reports/1345438/acrylate-monomers-global-industry-market-research-reports.pdf https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/enquiry/1345438 https://www.researchmoz.com/checkout?rep_id=1345438&licType=S http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ "The Latest Research Report Acrylate Monomers Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 - 2025 provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"Global Acrylate Monomers Market: OverviewAcrylate monomers are the esters which contain vinyl group and have a wide range of applications such as coatings, paints, plastics, adhesives & sealants, printing inks and textiles. Acrylate monomers are obtained by direct esterification of polyol or alcohol. This esterification is done with methacrylic acid or acrylic acid. The major application of acrylate monomers is in the paints and coating industry. Superior durability and UV resistance, high flexibility, and gloss are the key properties of acrylates that have boosted their consumption. In adhesive and sealants acrylates and co polymers are used in manufacturing of construction and pressure sensitive adhesives. Apart from the end use industries the acrylate monomers are widely used as chemical intermediates. Use of acrylate monomers in water-based coating formulation enhances the physical properties of the formulation. It provides better water resistance, low temperature flexibility, and excellent weathering and sunlight resistance. A small amount of methacrylic acid monomer is generally added to the formulation to enhance substrate adhesion and to provide latex stability. Some acrylate monomers have an extra functional group attached to the carbon atom and based on the type of functional group they are categorized as butyl acrylate, methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate monomers. Butyl acrylate monomers are highly consumed in the paints & coatings industry.Get Sample Copy Of This Report @Global Acrylate Monomers Market: Scope of StudyThe report estimates and forecasts the acrylate monomers market on the global, regional and country levels. The study provides forecast between 2017 and 2025 based on volume (Tons) and revenue (US$ Mn) with 2016 as the base year. The report comprises an exhaustive value chain analysis for each of the segments. It provides a comprehensive view of the market. Value chain analysis also offers detailed information about value addition at each stage. The study includes drivers and restraints for the acrylate monomers market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. The study also provides key market indicators affecting the growth of the market. The report analyzes opportunities in the acrylate monomers market on the global, regional and country level. Drivers, restraints, and opportunities mentioned in the report are justified through quantitative and qualitative data. These have been verified through primary and secondary resources. Furthermore, the report analyzes substitute analysis of acrylate monomers and global average price trend analysis.The report includes Porters Five Forces Model to determine the degree of competition in the acrylate monomers market. The report comprises a qualitative write-up on market attractiveness analysis, wherein end-users and regions have been analyzed based on attractiveness for each region. Growth rate, market size, raw material availability, profit margin, impact strength, technology, competition, and other factors (such as environmental and legal) have been evaluated in order to derive the general attractiveness of the market. The report comprises price trend analysis for acrylate monomers between 2017 and 2025.View Sample PDF @Global Acrylate Monomers Market: Research MethodologySecondary research sources that were typically referred to include, but were not limited to, paid as well as unpaid databases, company websites, financial reports, annual reports, investor presentations, broker reports, and SEC filings. Other sources such as internal and external proprietary databases, statistical databases and market reports, news articles, national government documents, and webcasts specific to companies operating in the market have also been referred for the report.In-depth interviews and discussions with a wide range of key opinion leaders and industry participants were conducted to compile this research report. Primary research represents the bulk of research efforts, supplemented by extensive secondary research. Key players product literature, annual reports, press releases, and relevant documents were reviewed for competitive analysis and market understanding. This helped in validating and strengthening secondary research findings. Primary research further helped in developing the analysis teams expertise and market understanding.Global Acrylate Monomers Market: Market DynamicsThe study provides a comprehensive view of the acrylate monomers market by dividing it into product, application, and geography segments. The product segment of acrylate monomers market includes methacrylate, ethyl acrylate monomers, butyl acrylate monomers, and 2-ethylhexyl acrylate monomers. In terms of application, global acrylate monomers market can be categorized into paints & coatings, adhesives & sealants, plastics, printing inks and others. The regional analysis of global acrylate monomers market includes the current and forecast consumption of acrylate monomers in North America (U.S, Canada), Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Rest of Latin America) , Europe (Germany, U.K, France, Spain, Italy, and Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, ASEAN, Rest of Asia Pacific), and Middle East & Africa (GCC, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa).Favorable regulatory scenario in highly developed regions such as North America and Europe are driving the market of global acrylate monomers.Global Acrylate Monomers Market: Competitive LandscapeThe report covers detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and profiles of key players operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report include BASF SE, The Dow Chemical Company, Arkema S.A., Mitsubishi Chemical Holding, Hitachi Chemical Co. Ltd, New Japan Chemical Co. Ltd, Evonik Industries AG, LG Chem, and Kuraray Co. Ltd.. Company profiles include attributes such as company overview, number of employees, brand overview, key competitors, business overview, business strategies, recent/key developments, acquisitions, and financial overview (wherever applicable).Send An Enquiry Request @The global acrylate monomers market has been segmented as follows:Acrylate Monomers Market Product AnalysisButyl Acrylate MonomerMethyl Acrylate Monomer2 Ethyl Hexyl Acrylate MonomerEthyl Acrylate MonomerOthersAcrylate Monomers Market Application AnalysisPaints & CoatingsAdhesives & SealantsPlasticPrinting InksOthersAcrylate Monomers Market Regional AnalysisNorth AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyFranceSpainItalyRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaASEANJapanRest of Asia PacificLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of Latin AmericaMiddle East & AfricaGCCSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaTable of Content1. Preface1.1. Report Scope and Market Segmentation1.2. Research Highlights2. Assumptions and Research Methodology2.1. Assumptions and Acronyms Used2.2. Research Methodology3. Executive Summary3.1. Market Size, Indicative (US$ Mn)3.2. Top 3 Trends4. Market Overview4.1. Product Overview4.2. Key Industry Developments4.3. Market Indicators4.4. Drivers and Restraints Snapshot Analysis4.4.1. Drivers4.4.2. Restraints4.4.3. Opportunities4.5. Global Acrylate Monomers Market Analysis and Forecasts4.6. Porters Analysis4.6.1. Threat of Substitutes4.6.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers4.6.3. Bargaining Power of Suppliers4.6.4. Threat of New Entrants4.6.5. Degree of Competition4.6.6. Value Chain Analysis4.7. Global Acrylate Monomers Market: SWOT AnalysisBuy Now This Report From Here @About usMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.ContactMr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074USA: Canada Toll Free: 866-997-4948Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Mechanical Keyboard Market 2017-2022: Logitech, Razer, SteelSeries, Roccat Studios, A4Tech, The Keyboard https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1215 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/mechanical-keyboard-market Market Research Future published a research report on Global Mechanical Keyboard Market Research Report- Global Forecast 2022 Market Analysis, Scope, Stake, Progress, Trends and Forecast to 2022.Market Synopsis of Mechanical Keyboard MarketKey PlayersThe prominent players in the market of Mechanical Keyboard are- Logitech (Switzerland), Corsair Components (U.S.), Razer Inc. (U.S.), SteelSeries (Denmark), Roccat Studios (Germany), A4Tech Co. Ltd. (Taiwan), The Keyboard Co. (U.K.) among others.Get Sample of Report @Study Objective of Mechanical Keyboard MarketTo provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Mechanical Keyboard MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo analyze the Mechanical Keyboard market based on various factors- value 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 verticals, by type, by application 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 Mechanical Keyboard Market.Key FindingsThe global Mechanical Keyboard Market is expected to reach USD 60 billion by 2022, growing with approximately 21% of CAGR during forecast period 2016-2022.By Type, Smart Image Sensors are dominating the market and has generated USD 5.18 billion in 2016. Whereas, Smart Touch sensor is expected to grow with fastest growing 27.51 % CAGRBy Technology, CMOS based Mechanical Keyboard is dominating the market and expected generate USD 40 billion market by 2022 and growing with 25.01% CAGR.North America is expected to dominate the market of Mechanical Keyboard market throughout the forecast period.Market SegmentationSegmentation by Verticals: Commercial and Personal.Segmentation by Type: Linear, Light tactile, Tactile and High audible.Segmentation by Application: Gaming & Office.Industry NewsIn March 2016, Logitech announced the launch of two new cherry mechanical gaming keyboards with customizable lighting and performance-driven design.In April 2016, Corsair Components announced the launch of ultrafast new mechanical keyboards.Get complete Report @The reports also covers brief analysis of Geographical Region includes:AmericasNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeWestern EuropeGermanyFranceItalySpainUKRest of Western EuropeEastern EuropeAsia PacificAsiaChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaRest of AsiaPacificThe Middle East& AfricaThe report for Global Mechanical Keyboard Market of Market Research Future comprises of extensive primary research along with the detailed analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts, key opinion leaders to gain the deeper insight of the market and industry performance. The report gives the clear picture of current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions.About 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.Media Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Global Procure-To-Pay Solutions Market 2017: Ariba, GEP, SAP SE, Infosys Limited, ProActis Procure-To-Pay Solutions Market 2017 http://bit.ly/2gMStUx http://bit.ly/2zeKdU6 Global Procure-To-Pay Solutions Market 2017-2022QY Market Research include new Procure-To-Pay Solutions market research report "2016-2022 Report on Global Procure-To-Pay Solutions Market Competition, Status and Forecast, Market Size by Players, Regions, Type, Application" to its huge collection of research reports.This report on the global Procure-To-Pay Solutions market is highly helpful because it covers all the aspects which are important in deciding the future of this industry. The Procure-To-Pay Solutions report is collated by full-fledged analysts who have created use of their market intelligence to explain all basic and crucial knowledge regarding the worldwide Procure-To-Pay Solutions industry.Get Free Sample of Report Here:The Procure-To-Pay Solutions market report makes use of tables, charts, graphs, maps, and statistics to present the data in the easiest way to understand. The Procure-To-Pay Solutions market report is a comprehensive analysis of the key factors impacting the global Procure-To-Pay Solutions industry. This Procure-To-Pay Solutions market report includes both the driving factors as well as the restraining factors that are influencing the market's performance positively and negatively, respectively.Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This Research Report,1. Zycus Inc.2. Bertelsmann SE & Co.3. Ariba Inc.4. GEP5. SAP SE6. Infosys Limited7. Comarch SA8. ProActisThe present trends shaping the worldwide Procure-To-Pay Solutions market and the way it will influence the Procure-To-Pay Solutions market within the future are studied. Additionally to this, the future opportunities within the Procure-To-Pay Solutions market that have the potential to assist the market to expand are given within the Procure-To-Pay Solutions report.Enquire Here:The segments inside the global Procure-To-Pay Solutions industry and their sub-segments also are studied in detail. This ensures that the whole Procure-To-Pay Solutions market is covered. The leading segment along with the declining segment and also the most promising segment has been given during this Procure-To-Pay Solutions report. This helps the newcomers, shareholders, readers, stockholders and leading manufacturers to choose which segment or sub-segment to speculate on therefore on acquiring most profits.The Procure-To-Pay Solutions market report discusses the degree of competition, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of buyers, and a threat of substitutes, both internal and external substitute of Procure-To-Pay Solutions market. The threat of recent entrants or the barriers experienced by new and prime players in getting into the worldwide Procure-To-Pay Solutions market has been mentioned. This offers new players a plan on whether or not they will exist within the competitive Procure-To-Pay Solutions industry.About Us:Business Worldwide is a trusted brand in the research industry with a capability of commissioning complex projects within a short span of time with high level of accuracy. At Business Worldwide, we believe in building long-term relations with our clients. Our services cover a broad spectrum of industries including Energy, Chemicals and Materials, Automotive, Software and Aerospace.Contact Us:Joel JohnSuite #8138, 3422 SW 15 Street,Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442United StatesToll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803 Connected Car Market to Witness Impressive Growth by 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=2048 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=2048 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=2048 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=2048 Global Connected Car Market: OverviewToday, connected car is the big buzz word in the automotive and car industry. A connected car is equipped with Internet connectivity to share information between devices within the vehicle or to share information with devices outside the car such as in other cars, office, home, or other physical spaces.Connected cars receive information pertaining to traffic, collisions, and other safety alerts in a timely manner. Connected car features can be categorized into safety, infotainment, payments, navigation, and diagnostics/efficiency.Typically, connected cars that have been introduced after 2010 has a head-unit, in-dash system equipped with a screen for the driver to view or manage operations of the connections, and an infotainment unit.Global Connected Car Market: Key TrendsThe top factor driving the global connected car market include regulatory mandates on connected car modules. Moreover, rising demand for smartphone features in cars and real-time connectivity with cars to obtain vehicle data updates for vehicular safety is driving the connected car market.Request Sample Copy of the Report@However, factors such as network coverage limitation and risk of misuse of customer data by cybercriminals for unscrupulous activities is challenging the markets growth.The connected car market is expected to be benefitted as connected car is considered to be a stepping stone for autonomous vehicles, consumer electronics providers for connected cars can offer telematics and infotainment devices at a cheaper cost, and insurance rate for connected cars is dependent on usage.The connected car market faces challenges with respect to disparity of product design procedures between OEMs, in-built solutions of cars, and smartphones. Also, the connected car market will benefit with reduced cost of telematics and infotainment equipment and services. In this scenario, creating an ecosystem that functions through cross-industry collaborations between OEMs, technology companies, and mobile network operators is poised to be the winning imperative for the industry.Request TOC of the Report @Global Connected Car Market: Market PotentialAt the recent Seoul Motor Show 2017, Hyundai Motors announced a multitude of future-vehicle initiatives, which includes connected cars and electric vehicles. Developed by a team of in-house experts Hyundais new Connected Car Service platform will diminish the lines between mobility, living, and working spaces by means of voice control and allow vehicle owners to connect their vehicles with global appliance service providers.Global Connected Car Market: Regional OutlookNorth America is the leading regional market for connected cars. The U.S. is the leading contributor to the North America connected car market due to regulations in place for monitoring telematics applications.Furthermore, in the U.S., the transportation system is reaching its capacity thus alternatives need to be sought to address the increasing traffic congestion issues. The transportation network in the U.S. is nearing saturation and infrastructure expansion by means of traditional methods is not a viable solution. Connected cars equipped with telematics and navigation tools is an ideal solution to address this issue. Moreover, the U.S. being home to some of the worlds major automobile companies such as General Motors Company, Ford Motor Company, and Tesla Motors Inc., along with the presence of software giants such as Microsoft Corporation and IBM Corporation and telecom providers such as AT&T Inc., Verizon Communications Inc., and Sierra Wireless are favoring the growth of the connected car market in the region. Get Discount @Get Discount @Global Connected Car Market: Competitive LandscapeSome of the key players in the global connected car market include Audi AG, General Motors Company, Google Inc.,Delphi Automotive Plc, AT&T Inc.,Robert Bosch GmbH, Wirelesscar, BMW AG,Tesla Motors Inc.,Volvo Car Corporation, Vodafone Group Plc., Denso Corporation,and Airbiquity Inc.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Grid Computing Market 2022 Growth Rate, Business Strategy and Key Players: Apple Computer, Oracle, Dell, Sun Microsystems, Hewlett-Packard HP, Sybase, IBM, Sun Microsystems https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1314 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/grid-computing-market Market Research Future published a research report on Global Grid Computing Market Research Report- Forecast 2022 Market Analysis, Scope, Stake, Progress, Trends and Forecast to 2022.Market Synopsis of Grid Computing MarketMarket Scenario:Grid computing can be explained as a distribution system wherein computing resources are distributed/shared across networks. As technologies enables universal transparent access to documents, grid promises do so for computing resources. Grid computing allows the user for selection, aggregation, and sharing of information in multiple administrative domains and also across the geographic areas.Get Sample of Report @Key PlayersThe prominent players in the market of Grid Computing are- Oracle (U.S.), Apple Computer (U.S.), Dell (U.S.), Sun Microsystems (U.S.), Hewlett-Packard HP (U.S.), Sybase (SAP) (U.S.), Platform Computing Inc. (U.S.), IBM (U.S.), DataSynapse Inc. (U.S.), Sun Microsystems (U.S.) among others.Study Objective of Grid Computing MarketTo provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Grid Computing MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo analyze the grid computing market based on various factors- value 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 graphic type, by components, by application, by end users and sub-segmentsTo 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 Grid Computing MarketMarket SegmentationSegmentation by Graphic Type: Discrete Graphics & Integrated Graphics.Segmentation by Components: Video Graphics Array, USB, Peripheral Component Interconnect Bus among others.Segmentation by Application: Utility Computing, Datacenter, Software as a Service (SaaS) among others.Segmentation by End Users: IT &Telecommunications, Consumer Electronics, BFSI, Healthcare, Education, Government among others.Industry NewsIn September 2016, Binghamton University announced that a new service developed at campus could help in the improvement of overall performance of mobile devices which saves data on cloud.Get complete Report @Target AudienceSoftware Developer CompaniesCloud Service ProvidersCyber Security CompaniesManufacturing CompaniesNetworking CompaniesData CentersThe report for Global Grid Computing Market of Market Research Future comprises of extensive primary research along with the detailed analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts, key opinion leaders to gain the deeper insight of the market and industry performance. The report gives the clear picture of current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions.About 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.Media Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Global Oven Bags and Pouches Market Analysis by Material Type, by Packaging Size, by End Use And by Region 2025 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/1345460 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/reports/1345460/oven-bags-and-pouches-market-research-reports.pdf https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/enquiry/1345460 https://www.researchmoz.com/checkout?rep_id=1345460&licType=S http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ "The Latest Research Report Oven Bags and Pouches Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 - 2025 provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"Global Oven Bags and Pouches Market: OverviewThis report provides forecast and analysis of the oven bags & pouches market on global level. It provides actual data of 2016 along with estimated data of 2017, and forecast data up to 2025 in terms of revenue (US$ Mn) and volume (000 Units). The report also includes macroeconomic indicators along with an outlook on oven bags & pouches consumption pattern across the globe. It includes drivers and restraints of the global oven bags & pouches market and their impact on each region during the forecast period. The report also comprises the study of current issues with end users and opportunities for oven bags & pouches manufacturers. It also includes value chain and pricing analysis.In order to provide users of this report with comprehensive view of the market, we have included detailed competitiveness analysis and company players with their SWOT analysis and strategy overview. The dashboard provides detailed comparison of oven bags & pouches manufacturers on parameters such as operating margin, total revenue, and product portfolio. The study encompasses market attractiveness analysis by material type, by packaging size, by packaging type, by sales type, by seal type, by end use, and by region.Get Sample Copy Of This Report @TMR triangulates the data via different analysis based on supply side, demand side, as well as dynamics of oven bags & pouches market.TMR not only conducts forecasts in terms of value, but also evaluates the market on the basis of essential parameters, such as Year-on-Year (Y-o-Y) growth. This helps providers to recognize the future opportunities as well predictability of the market.Global Oven Bags and Pouches Market: SegmentationThe report includes consumption of oven bags & pouches and the revenue generated from sales of oven bags & pouches across the globe and key countries. By material type, oven bags & pouches market is segmented into Nylon, PET, Aluminum, and Others. By packaging size, oven bags & pouches market is segmented into less than 150X280 mm, 150X280 mm to 250X380 mm, 250X380 mm to 350X480 mm, and more than 350X480 mm segments. By packaging type, oven bags & pouches market is segmented into bags and pouches.By sales type, the market is segmented into institutional sales and retail sales. By seal type, oven bags & pouches market is segmented into adhesive seal and heat seal. By end use, oven bags & pouches market is segmented into meat, poultry, seafood, ready-to-eat meals, and vegetables and others. Ready-to-eat meal segment is further subdivided into pre-prepared meals, frozen food, pasta & pizza, and burgers, sandwiches, and others.View Sample PDF @Market numbers have been estimated based on extensive secondary and primary research, average pricing of oven bags & pouches by packaging size and the revenue is derived through regional pricing trends. Market size and forecast for each segment have been provided in the context of global and regional markets. The oven bags & pouches market has been analyzed based on expected demand. Prices considered for the calculation of revenue are average regional prices obtained through primary quotes from numerous regional oven bags & pouches manufacturers.All key end users have been considered and potential applications have been estimated on the basis of secondary sources and feedback from primary respondents. Country demand patterns have been considered while estimating the market for various end users of oven bags & pouches in the different regions. Bottom-up approach has been used to estimate the oven bags & pouches market by regions.Global market numbers by material type, by packaging size, by packaging type, by sales type, by seal type, by end use industry have been derived using the bottom-up approach, which is cumulative of each countrys demand. The same has also been validated from top-down approach. Company-level market share has been derived on the basis of revenues reported by key manufacturers. The market has been forecast based on constant currency rates.A number of primary and secondary sources were consulted during the course of the study. Secondary sources include Factiva, FAO, Packaging Digest, and Hoovers, and company annual reports and publications.Global Oven Bags and Pouches Market: Competitive AnalysisThe report provides detailed competitive and company profiles of key participants operating in the Global market. Key Players of the oven bags & pouches market are S. C. Johnson & Son, Reynolds Group Holdings Ltd, Sealed Air Corporation, Mondi Group, Berry Global Group, Inc., The Clorox Company, Bemis Company, Inc., DuPont Teijin Films U.S. Limited Partnership, Gr. Sarantis SA, M&Q Packaging, LLC, The Schur Flexibles Group, FFP Packaging Ltd., Sunkey Plastic Packaging Co. Ltd, Sirane Limited, Flexopack SA, Planit Products Ltd., Clifton Packaging Group Ltd., TCL Packaging Ltd., Aalmir Plastic Industries LLC, Terinex Ltd.Oven bags & pouches market segmentation is belowBy Material TypeNylonPETAluminumOthers (PE, PP, etc.)By Packaging SizeLess than 150X280 mm150X280 mm to 250X380 mm250X380 mm to 350X480 mmMore than 350X480 mmBy Packaging TypeBagsPouchesBy Sales TypeInstitutional SalesRetail SalesBy Seal TypeAdhesive SealHeat SealBy End UseMeatPoultrySeafoodReady-to-eat MealPre-Prepared MealsFrozen FoodPasta & PizzaBurgers, Sandwiches, and OthersVegetables and OthersBy RegionNorth AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia Pacific (APAC)Middle East and Africa (MEA)Send An Enquiry Request @Table of Content1. Executive Summary2. Oven Bags & Pouches Market Introduction2.1. Oven Bags & Pouches Market Definition2.2. Consumer Perception towards Ovenable Packaging2.3. Important factors that drive interest in Ovenable Packaging2.4. Oven Bags & Pouches Market Taxonomy3. Oven Bags & Pouches Market Overview3.1. Introduction3.1.1. Global Oven Bags & Pouches Market: Key Facts and Figures3.1.2. Global Oven bags & Pouches consumption by End use and Region, 20163.1.3. Global Oven bags & Pouches Market Incremental $ Opportunity Indicator, 2017-20253.1.4. Global Oven Bags & Pouches Market: Estimated value (2017) and Forecast Value (2025)3.2. Oven Bags & Pouches Market Value Chain Analysis3.2.1. List of Active Participants3.2.1.1. Resin Suppliers3.2.1.2. Film Producers3.2.1.3. Converter/Packaging manufacturers3.2.1.4. Brand Owners3.3. Oven Bags & Pouches Market Pricing Analysis3.4. TMR Recommendations4. Oven Bags & Pouches Market Dynamics4.1. Global Oven Bags & Pouches Market Dynamics4.1.1. Global Oven Bags & Pouches Market Dynamics : Snapshot4.1.2. Drivers4.1.3. Restraints4.1.4. Opportunities4.1.5. Market Trends5. Global Oven Bags & Pouches Market Analysis and Forecast, By Material Type5.1. Introduction5.1.1. Global Oven Bags & Pouches Market, By Material Type : Snapshot5.1.2. Market Share and BPS Analysis By Material Type5.1.3. Y-o-Y Growth Projections By Material Type5.2. Market Size (US$ Mn) and Volume (000 Units) Forecast By Material Type5.2.1. Nylon5.2.2. PET5.2.3. Aluminum5.2.4. Others (PE, PP, etc.)5.3. Market Attractiveness Analysis By Material Type5.4. Prominent TrendsBuy Now This Report From Here @About usMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.ContactMr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074USA: Canada Toll Free: 866-997-4948Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Carbon Fiber in the Automotive Composites 2017 Global Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 9.68% and Forecast to 2021 Carbon Fiber in the Automotive Composites Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2373820-global-carbon-fiber-in-the-automotive-composites-market-2017-2021 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2373820-global-carbon-fiber-in-the-automotive-composites-market-2017-2021 www.wiseguyreports.com Global Carbon Fiber in the Automotive Composites MarketDescriptionWiseGuyReports.Com adds Global Carbon Fiber in the Automotive Composites Market 2017-2021 Research To Its Database.Carbon fiber is a thin filamentous substance composed of carbon atoms bonded in a microscopic crystal structure. Its excellent mechanical and chemical properties enable its application as a composite in the exterior, interior, chassis, and powertrain components of an automobile. The global carbon fiber in the automotive composite market is segmented by the material type into short fiber thermoplastic (SFT), sheet molding compound (SMC), long fiber thermoplastic (LFT), prepregs, and others.The analysts forecast the global carbon fiber in the automotive composites market to grow at a CAGR of 9.68% during the period 2017-2021.Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global carbon fiber in the automotive composites market for 2017-2021. The report presents a detailed picture of the market by way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources.Get sample Report @The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: APAC Europe North America ROWThe Global Carbon Fiber in the Automotive Composites 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 Cytec Solvay Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Scott Bader TEIJIN TORAY INDUSTRIESOther prominent vendors China Composites Group DowAksa Formosa Plastic Hexcel Holding company "Composite" Protech Composites SAERTEXMarket driver Excellent properties exhibited by carbon fiber For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge Cost associated with carbon fiber For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trend Increasing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey 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?Report Details @Table of Contents -Major Key PointsPART 01: Executive summaryPART 02: Scope of the reportPART 03: Research MethodologyPART 04: Introduction Market outlinePART 05: Market landscape Market overview Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites market Five forces analysisPART 06: Market Segmentation by material type Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites market by material type Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites from LFT Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites from SMC Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites from prepregs Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites from SFT Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites from other materialsPART 07: Market Segmentation by application Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites market by application Global carbon fiber in exterior components Global carbon fiber in interior components Global carbon fiber in structural and powertrain components Global carbon fiber in chassis systems Global carbon fiber in other componentsPART 08: Geographical segmentation Global carbon fiber in the automotive composites market by region Carbon fiber in the automotive composites market in APAC Carbon fiber in the automotive composites market in Europe Carbon fiber in the automotive composites market in North America Carbon fiber in the automotive composites market in ROWPART 09: Decision frameworkPART 10: Drivers and challenges Market drivers Market challengesPART 11: Market trendsPART 12: Vendor landscape Competitive landscape Key vendors in the global carbon fiber in automotive composites market Other prominent vendorsPART 13: Key vendor analysis Cytec Solvay Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Scott Bader TEIJIN TORAY INDUSTRIES..CONTINUEDAbout UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, Industry research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK) Sheet Molding Compound and Bulk Molding Compound Market- Industry Analysis,Trends and Forecast 2017 - 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=674 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=674 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=674 Global Sheet Molding Compound and Bulk Molding Compound Market: SnapshotThe global market for sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound is expected to advance with the launch of superior quality, lightweight, and more durable bulk molding and sheet molding compounds. By virtue of their higher line throughputs and lower production costs, these compounds are increasingly preferred by several leading manufacturers. As an augmenting number of advanced automobiles and luxury brands are deploying sheet molding compound (SMC) components, the market for sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound promises significant growth opportunities.For instance, the Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster features a light-weight boot-lid that is made from SMC. Similarly, the 2018 Lexus LC 500 deploys glass sheet molding compound to curb weight. The inner panels of the trunk and doors of the vehicle are made using CRFP sheet molding compound.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Several prominent market players have set their eyes on global presence, for which they have been expanding their capacities through new production facilities in new regions. For instance, in March 2017, Jushi Group Ltd. announced its plans to set up a production facility in Suez, Egypt by the second half of 2017. It has also been ramping up its product portfolio with the addition of SMC Class A and BMC chopped strands. Another leading firm, A. Schulman, Inc. announced in October 2016 its intention to expand its compounding capacity via the addition of a new sheet molding compound production site in Germany. Another new inventory facility, situated in Slovenia, will cater to the demands of its European customer base.Global Sheet Molding Compound and Bulk Molding Compound Market: OverviewSheet Molding Compound (SMC) is a ready-to-mold, glass fiber protected polymer matrix composite material that finds use in different modern applications. This is because it can be molded into complex shapes. Bulk Molding Compound (BMC), on the other hand, is an amalgamation of cut glass strands and resin that is supplied in bulks or logs. BMC is suitable for either compression or injection molding. Some of the end-use industries utilizing SMCs and BMCs are electrical, automotive, transportation, aerospace, construction, marine, and consumer industries.Request TOC of the Report @Raw materials used in manufacturing SMC and BMC are resins and fibers. Depending upon the type of fiber, the market can be segmented into glass fiber and carbon fiber. Currently, glass fiber is widely used in the global sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound market. Depending upon the resin type, the market can be segmented into polyester, vinyl ester, and others. The glass fiber is the dominating segment in the global sheet-molding compound and bulk-molding compound market.A report by TMR Research conveys essential information about the global market for sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound, which are also known as thermoset compounds. It furnishes a granular analysis of the various factors promoting or hindering the markets growth in the near future and also provides information on the important players in the market.Global Sheet Molding Compound and Bulk Molding Compound Market: Drivers and TrendsSheet molding compound and bulk molding compounds are lightweight yet strong. They are fire, corrosion, and stain resistant and exhibit excellent electrical insulation. As a result of so many unique perceived benefits, SMC and BMC are being preferred over traditional materials such as steel, iron, and aluminum. They are being increasingly utilized in the burgeoning automotive sector. Sheet molding compounds, for example, are used in bonnets, hoods, front ends, decklids, and spoilers in automobiles. Bulk molding compounds too are used in various automotive parts, namely valve covers, ignition parts, and headlight liners. In the years to come, the growing urbanization worldwide, leading to the swift sale of vehicles, especially fuel-efficient vehicles, will drive the market substantially.Get Discount @Other factors benefitting the global sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound market are the increasing automation, integration of the complete value chain of the process industries, and rapid technological progress.Global Sheet Molding Compound and Bulk Molding Compound Market: Regional OutlookAt present, Asia Pacific holds a sway over the global sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound market on account of the robust demand for automobiles and rapid industrialization in the region. The same factors are slated to propel the market further in the near future. In fact, Asia Pacific, powered by China, is slated to outpace all other major geographic segments in terms of growth rate in the years ahead. Presence of a copious number of electrical and automobile manufacturers, which is a result of lesser raw material prices, has made China a key player in the Asia Pacific region. It is both a leading producer and consumer of SMC and BMC in the region.Europe trails Asia Pacific in the global sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound market. It is followed by North America, which is propelled by the U.S. the main contributor to its growth.Companies Mentioned in ReportTo present an in-depth assessment of the competition prevailing in the global sheet molding compound and bulk molding compound market, the report profiles companies such as Menzolit GmbH, IDI Composite International, Showa Denko K.K., Citadel Plastics Holding Inc., Continental Structural Plastics Inc., Polynt S.P.A, Core Molding Technologies Inc., and Royal Tencate.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Global Smart City ICT Infrastructure Market 2017: AT&T, Cisco Systems, Oracle, IBM, Huawei, Vodafone Smart City ICT Infrastructure Market 2017 http://bit.ly/2gLb8QF http://bit.ly/2iiXLdP Global Smart City ICT Infrastructure Market 2017-2022QY Market Research include new Smart City ICT Infrastructure market research report "2016-2022 Report on Global Smart City ICT Infrastructure Market Competition, Status and Forecast, Market Size by Players, Regions, Type, Application" to its huge collection of research reports.This report on the global Smart City ICT Infrastructure market is highly helpful because it covers all the aspects which are important in deciding the future of this industry. The Smart City ICT Infrastructure report is collated by full-fledged analysts who have created use of their market intelligence to explain all basic and crucial knowledge regarding the worldwide Smart City ICT Infrastructure industry.Get Free Sample of Report Here:The Smart City ICT Infrastructure market report makes use of tables, charts, graphs, maps, and statistics to present the data in the easiest way to understand. The Smart City ICT Infrastructure market report is a comprehensive analysis of the key factors impacting the global Smart City ICT Infrastructure industry. This Smart City ICT Infrastructure market report includes both the driving factors as well as the restraining factors that are influencing the market's performance positively and negatively, respectively.Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This Research Report,1. IBM2. Huawei3. AT&T4. Cisco Systems5. Oracle6. NTT Communications7. Vodafone8. China Mobile9. ABB10. Hitachi11. Verizon Communications12. Honeywell International13. Siemens14. Schneider Electric15. ToshibaThe present trends shaping the worldwide Smart City ICT Infrastructure market and the way it will influence the Smart City ICT Infrastructure market within the future are studied. Additionally to this, the future opportunities within the Smart City ICT Infrastructure market that have the potential to assist the market to expand are given within the Smart City ICT Infrastructure report.Enquire Here:The segments inside the global Smart City ICT Infrastructure industry and their sub-segments also are studied in detail. This ensures that the whole Smart City ICT Infrastructure market is covered. The leading segment along with the declining segment and also the most promising segment has been given during this Smart City ICT Infrastructure report. This helps the newcomers, shareholders, readers, stockholders and leading manufacturers to choose which segment or sub-segment to speculate on therefore on acquiring most profits.The Smart City ICT Infrastructure market report discusses the degree of competition, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of buyers, and a threat of substitutes, both internal and external substitute of Smart City ICT Infrastructure market. The threat of recent entrants or the barriers experienced by new and prime players in getting into the worldwide Smart City ICT Infrastructure market has been mentioned. This offers new players a plan on whether or not they will exist within the competitive Smart City ICT Infrastructure industry.About Us:Business Worldwide is a trusted brand in the research industry with a capability of commissioning complex projects within a short span of time with high level of accuracy. At Business Worldwide, we believe in building long-term relations with our clients. Our services cover a broad spectrum of industries including Energy, Chemicals and Materials, Automotive, Software and Aerospace.Contact Us:Joel JohnSuite #8138, 3422 SW 15 Street,Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442United StatesToll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803 Inventory Tracking System Market 2017 - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2022 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2351432-2017-global-inventory-tracking-system-industry-research-report https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/2351432-2017-global-inventory-tracking-system-industry-research-report The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Inventory Tracking System industry market by types, applications, players and regions. This report also displays the production, Consumption, revenue, Gross margin, Cost, Gross, market share, CAGR, and Market influencing factors of the Inventory Tracking System industry in USA, EU, China,India, Japan and other regions, and forecast to 2022, from 2017.Market Analysis by PlayersEpicor Software CorporationJDA Software Group, Inc.Oracle CorporationAldata Software Management, Inc.Descartes Systems GroupManhattan Associates, Inc.Retalix Ltd.Lawson SoftwareRequest a Sample Report @Market Analysis by Regions:North AmericaEuropeChinaJapanOthersMarket Anaysis by Types:On-premiseOn-demand/Cloud-basedMarket Analysis by Applications:Small and Medium-Sized EnterprisesLarge EnterpriseTable of Content1 Inventory Tracking System Market Overview1.1 Product Overview of Inventory Tracking System1.2 Classification and Application of Inventory Tracking System1.3 Global Inventory Tracking System Market Regional Analysis1.3.1 USA Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.2 Europe Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.3 Japan Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.4 China Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.5 India Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.6 Southeast Asia Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.7 South America Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.8 South Africa Market Present Situation Analysis1.3.9 Brazil Market Present Situation Analysis1.4 Inventory Tracking System Industry Development Factors Analysis1.4.1 Inventory Tracking System Industry Development Opportunities Analysis1.4.2 Inventory Tracking System Industry Development Challenges Analysis1.5 Inventory Tracking System Consumer Behavior Analysis2 Global Inventory Tracking System Competition by Players2.1 Global Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Players2.2 Global Inventory Tracking System Revenue (Million USD) and Share by Players (2016-2017)2.3 Global Inventory Tracking System Price (USD/Unit) by Players (2016-2017)2.4 Global Inventory Tracking System Gross Margin by Players (2016-2017)3 Global Inventory Tracking System Competition by Types3.1 Global Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Types3.2 Global Inventory Tracking System Revenue (Million USD) and Share by Type (2012-2017)3.3 Global Inventory Tracking System Price (USD/Unit) by Type (2012-2017)3.4 Global Inventory Tracking System Gross Margin by Type (2012-2017)3.5 USA Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.6 China Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.7 Europe Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.8 Japan Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.9 India Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.10 Southeast Asia Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.11 South America Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.12 South Africa Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type3.12 Brazil Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Type4 Global Inventory Tracking System Competition by Application4.1 Global Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.2 Global Inventory Tracking System Revenue (Million USD) and Share by Application (2012-2017)4.3 Global Inventory Tracking System Price (USD/Unit) by Application (2012-2017)4.4 Global Inventory Tracking System Gross Margin by Application (2012-2017)4.5 USA Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.6 China Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.7 Europe Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.8 Japan Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.9 India Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.10 Southeast Asia Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.11 South America Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.12 South Africa Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application4.13 Brazil Inventory Tracking System Sales (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Application5 Global Inventory Tracking System Production Market Analysis by Region5.1 Global Inventory Tracking System Production (Unit) and Market Share (%) by Region5.1.1 USA Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.2 Europe Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.3 China Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.4 Japan Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.5 India Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.6 Southeast Asia Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.7 South America Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.8 South Africa Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.1.9 Brazil Inventory Tracking System Market Production Present Situation Analysis5.2 Global Inventory Tracking System Production Value (Million USD) and Share by Region (2012-2017)5.3 Global Inventory Tracking System Price (USD/Unit) by Region (2012-2017)5.4 Global Inventory Tracking System Gross Margin by Region (2012-2017)6 Global Inventory Tracking System Sales Market Analysis by Region6.2.1 USA Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation Analysis6.2.2 Europe Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation Analysis6.2.3 China Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation Analysis6.2.4 Japan Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation Analysis6.2.5 India Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation Analysis6.2.6 Southeast Asia Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation Analysis6.2.7 South America Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation Analysis6.2.8 South Africa Inventory Tracking System Market Consumption Present Situation AnalysisContinuedMake an enquiry of this Report @ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Global Third-Party Logistics Market 2017: Nippon Express, Dachser, Damco International, DSV, Expeditors Third-Party Logistics Market 2017 http://bit.ly/2yn0cT9 http://bit.ly/2ggBoBJ Global Third-Party Logistics Market 2017-2022QY Market Research include new Third-Party Logistics market research report "2016-2022 Report on Global Third-Party Logistics Market Competition, Status and Forecast, Market Size by Players, Regions, Type, Application" to its huge collection of research reports.This report on the global Third-Party Logistics market is highly helpful because it covers all the aspects which are important in deciding the future of this industry. The Third-Party Logistics report is collated by full-fledged analysts who have created use of their market intelligence to explain all basic and crucial knowledge regarding the worldwide Third-Party Logistics industry.Get Free Sample of Report Here:The Third-Party Logistics market report makes use of tables, charts, graphs, maps, and statistics to present the data in the easiest way to understand. The Third-Party Logistics market report is a comprehensive analysis of the key factors impacting the global Third-Party Logistics industry. This Third-Party Logistics market report includes both the driving factors as well as the restraining factors that are influencing the market's performance positively and negatively, respectively.Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This Research Report,1. CEVA Logistics2. DB Schenker3. UPS Supply Chain Solutions4. Deutsche Post DHL5. Kuehne + Nagel6. Nippon Express7. C.H. Robinson8. CJ Korea Express9. Dachser10. Damco International11. DSV12. Expeditors13. GEFCO14. Hellmann Worldwide LogisticsThe present trends shaping the worldwide Third-Party Logistics market and the way it will influence the Third-Party Logistics market within the future are studied. Additionally to this, the future opportunities within the Third-Party Logistics market that have the potential to assist the market to expand are given within the Third-Party Logistics report.Enquire Here:The segments inside the global Third-Party Logistics industry and their sub-segments also are studied in detail. This ensures that the whole Third-Party Logistics market is covered. The leading segment along with the declining segment and also the most promising segment has been given during this Third-Party Logistics report. This helps the newcomers, shareholders, readers, stockholders and leading manufacturers to choose which segment or sub-segment to speculate on therefore on acquiring most profits.The Third-Party Logistics market report discusses the degree of competition, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of buyers, and a threat of substitutes, both internal and external substitute of Third-Party Logistics market. The threat of recent entrants or the barriers experienced by new and prime players in getting into the worldwide Third-Party Logistics market has been mentioned. This offers new players a plan on whether or not they will exist within the competitive Third-Party Logistics industry.About Us:Business Worldwide is a trusted brand in the research industry with a capability of commissioning complex projects within a short span of time with high level of accuracy. At Business Worldwide, we believe in building long-term relations with our clients. Our services cover a broad spectrum of industries including Energy, Chemicals and Materials, Automotive, Software and Aerospace.Contact Us:Joel JohnSuite #8138, 3422 SW 15 Street,Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442United StatesToll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803 Global Food Logistics Market 2017: DB Schenker, DSC Logistics, Allen Lund, Bender Group, H&M Bay Food Logistics Market 2017 http://bit.ly/2ggegmQ http://bit.ly/2yoemDG Global Food Logistics Market 2017-2022QY Market Research include new Food Logistics market research report "2016-2022 Report on Global Food Logistics Market Competition, Status and Forecast, Market Size by Players, Regions, Type, Application" to its huge collection of research reports.This report on the global Food Logistics market is highly helpful because it covers all the aspects which are important in deciding the future of this industry. The Food Logistics report is collated by full-fledged analysts who have created use of their market intelligence to explain all basic and crucial knowledge regarding the worldwide Food Logistics industry.Get Free Sample of Report Here:The Food Logistics market report makes use of tables, charts, graphs, maps, and statistics to present the data in the easiest way to understand. The Food Logistics market report is a comprehensive analysis of the key factors impacting the global Food Logistics industry. This Food Logistics market report includes both the driving factors as well as the restraining factors that are influencing the market's performance positively and negatively, respectively.Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This Research Report,1. Allen Lund2. AmeriCold Logistics3. AN Deringer4. APL Logistics5. Bender Group6. CH Robinson Worldwide7. DB Schenker8. DSC Logistics9. Echo Global Logistics10. H&M Bay11. Henningsen Cold Storage12. J.B. Hunt13. JTS14. Kenco Logistics Services15. Matson Logistics16. ODW Logistics17. Odyssey18. Port Jersey LogisticsThe present trends shaping the worldwide Food Logistics market and the way it will influence the Food Logistics market within the future are studied. Additionally to this, the future opportunities within the Food Logistics market that have the potential to assist the market to expand are given within the Food Logistics report.Enquire Here:The segments inside the global Food Logistics industry and their sub-segments also are studied in detail. This ensures that the whole Food Logistics market is covered. The leading segment along with the declining segment and also the most promising segment has been given during this Food Logistics report. This helps the newcomers, shareholders, readers, stockholders and leading manufacturers to choose which segment or sub-segment to speculate on therefore on acquiring most profits.The Food Logistics market report discusses the degree of competition, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of buyers, and a threat of substitutes, both internal and external substitute of Food Logistics market. The threat of recent entrants or the barriers experienced by new and prime players in getting into the worldwide Food Logistics market has been mentioned. This offers new players a plan on whether or not they will exist within the competitive Food Logistics industry.About Us:Business Worldwide is a trusted brand in the research industry with a capability of commissioning complex projects within a short span of time with high level of accuracy. At Business Worldwide, we believe in building long-term relations with our clients. Our services cover a broad spectrum of industries including Energy, Chemicals and Materials, Automotive, Software and Aerospace.Contact Us:Joel JohnSuite #8138, 3422 SW 15 Street,Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442United StatesToll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803 Cloud-based Database 2017 United States Market Size, Status, Analysis and Forecast 2022 Cloud-based Database Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/1243277-united-states-cloud-based-database-market-by-manufacturers-states-type-and https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/1243277-united-states-cloud-based-database-market-by-manufacturers-states-type-and www.wiseguyreports.com United States Cloud-based Database MarketDescriptionWiseGuyReports.Com adds United States Cloud-based Database Market by Manufacturers, States, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 Research To Its Database.A cloud-based database is a database, as the name suggests, resides on a cloud computing platform. Databases are used to store and manage various forms of data generated by a company. Database services can be provided on-premises or on-demand. On-demand services are known as cloud-based databases, which is gaining increasing acceptance among several organizations. A cloud-based database is suitable for organizations that require immediate access to database services, easy scalability options, low cost, and low maintenance. Service providers offer end-to-end solutions, which help organizations focus on their core business areas.Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Cloud-based Database in United States Market, to split the market based on manufacturers, states, type and application.Get sample Report @Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversAmazon Web ServicesGoogleIBMMicrosoftOracleRackspace HostingSalesforceCassandraCouchbaseMongoDBSAPTeradataAlibabaTencentMarket Segment by States, coveringCaliforniaTexasNew YorkFloridaIllinoisMarket Segment by Type, coversSQL DatabaseNoSQL DatabaseMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoSmall and Medium BusinessLarge EnterprisesReport Details @Table of Contents -Major Key Points1 Market Overview1.1 Cloud-based Database Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 SQL Database1.2.2 NoSQL Database1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Small and Medium Business1.3.2 Large Enterprises1.4 Market Analysis by States1.4.1 California Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.2 Texas Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 New York Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 Florida Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Illinois Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Market Dynamics1.5.1 Market Opportunities1.5.2 Market Risk1.5.3 Market Driving Force2 Manufacturers Profiles2.1 Amazon Web Services2.1.1 Profile2.1.2 Cloud-based Database Type and Applications2.1.2.1 Type 12.1.2.2 Type 22.1.3 Amazon Web Services Cloud-based Database Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.1.4 Business Overview2.1.5 Amazon Web Services News2.2 Google2.2.1 Profile2.2.2 Cloud-based Database Type and Applications2.2.2.1 Type 12.2.2.2 Type 22.2.3 Google Cloud-based Database Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.2.4 Business Overview2.2.5 Google News2.3 IBM2.3.1 Profile2.3.2 Cloud-based Database Type and Applications2.3.2.1 Type 12.3.2.2 Type 22.3.3 IBM Cloud-based Database Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.3.4 Business Overview2.3.5 IBM News2.4 Microsoft2.4.1 Profile2.4.2 Cloud-based Database Type and Applications2.4.2.1 Type 12.4.2.2 Type 22.4.3 Microsoft Cloud-based Database Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.4.4 Business Overview2.4.5 Microsoft News2.5 Oracle2.5.1 Profile2.5.2 Cloud-based Database Type and Applications2.5.2.1 Type 12.5.2.2 Type 22.5.3 Oracle Cloud-based Database Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.5.4 Business Overview2.5.5 Oracle News2.6 Rackspace Hosting2.6.1 Profile2.6.2 Cloud-based Database Type and Applications2.6.2.1 Type 12.6.2.2 Type 22.6.3 Rackspace Hosting Cloud-based Database Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.6.4 Business Overview2.6.5 Rackspace Hosting News..CONTINUEDAbout UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, Industry research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK) Colorectal Cancer Therapeutics in Asia-Pacific Markets to 2023 - Launch of Premium Targeted Therapies and Increasing Prevalence to Drive the Market https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/reports/1277494/colorectal-cancer-therapeutics-in-asia-pacific-market-research-reports https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/enquiry/1277494 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/1277494 http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ "The Report Colorectal Cancer Therapeutics in Asia-Pacific Markets to 2023 - Launch of Premium Targeted Therapies and Increasing Prevalence to Drive the Market provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. There were more than 1.4 million newly diagnosed CRC cases in 2012, accounting for 9.7% of the total number of cancer cases. This figure has been gradually rising in the Asia-Pacific region, with the growing elderly population and increasingly Westernized lifestyles.CRC is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 0.77 million deaths in 2015. Over half of the incident cases of CRC are diagnosed in patients over the age of 50, and as the aged population is projected to grow, the prevalence of CRC is anticipated to increase, acting as a driver for revenue growth.View Report @The poor prognosis, particularly for patients with advanced disease, has created a pressing need for improved therapeutic options. The CRC market is therefore shifting from a focus on generic chemotherapy regimens to a complex treatment landscape based on the presence of various molecular aberrations.The marketed products landscape comprises a wide range of treatment options, including EGFR-targeted therapies, angiogenesis inhibitors, multiple kinase inhibitors and new chemotherapies. In the current market, RAS-wild-type and RAS-mutant patients can be treated with angiogenesis inhibitors such as Avastin, Cyramza and Zaltrap, while patients with RAS- or KRAS-wild-type mutations can be prescribed EGFR-targeted therapies such as Erbitux and Vectibix. However, significant unmet need remains for products that can treat BRAF-mutant CRC patients. A therapy that targets mutant BRAF - encorafenib plus binimetinib - is being developed in the pipeline.Send An Enquiry Request @ScopeThe CRC Asia-Pacific market will be valued at $7.9 billion in 2023, growing from $4.7 billion in 2016 at a CAGR of 7.9%.- How will immune checkpoint inhibitors such as Keytruda and Tecentriq contribute to growth?- What effect will patent expirations of currently branded therapies have on market value?The CRC pipeline is large and diverse, with an strong presence of mAbs and targeted therapies.- What are the common targets and mechanisms of action of pipeline therapies?- Will the pipeline address unmet needs such as the lack of targeted therapies available for BRAF-mutant CRC patients?- What implications will the increased focus on targeted therapies have on the future of CRC treatment?Numerous late-stage pipeline therapies with a strong clinical record have the potential to enter the market over the forecast period.- How have the late-stage therapies performed in clinical trials?- How would the approval of encorafenib plus binimetinib to treat BRAF-mutant patients affect the competitive landscape, with no targeted therapy currently available to address this patient subset?The market forecasts indicate that Japan will contribute the most to the Asia-Pacific market value due to the emergence of novel therapies.- How will the annual cost of therapy and market size vary between the five assessed Asia-Pacific markets?- How could changes in risk factors such as population age, obesity and lifestyle influence the market?Licensing deals are the most common form of strategic alliance in CRC, with total deal values ranging from under $10m to over $3 billion.- How do deal frequency and value compare between target families and molecule types?- What were the terms and conditions of key licensing deals?Get Sample Copy Of This Report @Reasons to buy- Understand the current clinical and commercial landscape by considering disease pathogenesis, diagnosis, prognosis, and the treatment options available at each stage of diagnosis, including a clinical comparison of marketed therapies.- Visualize the composition of the CRC market in terms of the dominant therapies for each patient subset, along with their clinical and commercial standing. Unmet needs are highlighted to allow a competitive understanding of gaps in the market.- Analyze the CRC pipeline and stratify pipeline therapies by stage of development, molecule type and molecular target.- Understand the potential of late-stage therapies with extensive profiles of products that could enter the market over the forecast period, highlighting clinical performance, potential commercial positioning, and how they will compete with other therapies.- Predict CRC market growth in the five assessed Asia-Pacific markets, with epidemiological and annual cost of therapy forecasts across India, China, Australia, South Korea and Japan, as well as the individual contributions of promising late-stage molecules to market growth.- Identify commercial opportunities in the CRC deals landscape by analyzing trends in licensing and co-development deals.Table of Contents1 Table of Contents 51.1 List of Tables 81.2 List of Figures 82 Introduction 102.1 Disease Introduction 102.2 Epidemiology 102.3 Symptoms 122.4 Etiology and Pathophysiology 122.4.1 Etiology 122.4.2 Pathophysiology 132.4.3 Biomarkers/Targets of Interest 142.5 Diagnosis 152.5.1 Digital Rectal Examination 162.5.2 Fecal Occult Blood Test 162.5.3 Flexible Sigmoidoscopy 162.5.4 Colonoscopy 162.5.5 Virtual Colonoscopy 172.5.6 Double Contrast Barium Enema 172.6 Disease Stages 172.7 Prognosis 192.8 Treatment Guidelines and Options 202.8.1 Surgery and Radiation Therapy 202.8.2 Chemotherapy 212.8.3 Targeted Therapies 222.8.4 Resistance to Pharmacological Therapies 232.8.5 Treatment Algorithm 233 Marketed Products 263.1 Overview 263.2 Chemotherapies 263.2.1 Lonsurf (Trifluridine plus Tipiracil) - Taiho Pharma 273.2.2 TS-1 (Tegafur plus Gimeracil plus Oteracil) - Taiho Pharma 283.2.3 UFT (tegafur plus uracil) - Merck KGaA 293.3 Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Targeted Therapies 293.3.1 Erbitux (cetuximab) - Eli Lilly/Merck KGaA 303.3.2 Vectibix (panitumumab) - Amgen/Takeda 313.4 Anti-angiogenesis Therapies 333.4.1 Avastin (bevacizumab) - Roche 333.4.2 Cyramza (ramucirumab) - Eli Lilly 353.4.3 Zaltrap (Ziv-Aflibercept) - Sanofi/Regeneron 363.5 Kinase Inhibitors 373.5.1 Stivarga (regorafenib) - Bayer/Onyx 373.6 Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Marketed Products 384 Pipeline Analysis 404.1 Overview 404.2 Pipeline by Stage of Development, Molecule Type, Route of Administration and Program Type 404.3 Pipeline by Molecular Target 434.4 Promising Pipeline Candidates 45About usMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.Mr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:Email: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Brazil: Largest telecom services Market 2017 - Current and Future Plans https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/608877-brazil-demand-for-mobile-challenging-macroeconomic-conditions https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/608877-brazil-demand-for-mobile-challenging-macroeconomic-conditions www.linkedin.com/company/4828928 https://twitter.com/WiseGuyReports https://www.facebook.com/Wiseguyreports-1009007869213183/?fref=ts SummaryIn 2016, Brazil will be the largest telecom services market in Latin America. Disconnections in the pay-TV and circuit-switched markets will affect the growth of the telecom market in Brazil in 2016. Additionally, the challenging macroeconomic situation coupled with additional cuts in mobile termination rates (MTRs) and reductions in fixed circuit-switched tariffs terminating on mobile networks will further impact market growth and operator revenue. With recovery beginning in 2017 and the voice-to-data substitution trend in the mobile segment, growth in the Brazilian telecom market will be mainly driven by the increase in mobile data revenue.GET SAMPLE REPORT @Key Findings The top three operators, Vivo, Claro (America Movil) and Oi, which provide mobile, fixed and pay-TV services, will account for 74.8% of overall service revenue in 2016. In 2015, Vivo concluded the acquisition of GVT, expanding its presence outside its concession area for fixed services and increasing its market share. Adoption of 3G services will reach its peak during 2016, and will start to decline from 2017 as 3G to 4G/LTE migration intensifies. Despite Brazils challenging economic environment, equipment vendors and software providers have opportunities in select areas in the near term such as operators LTE deployments, fiber-optic network rollouts, SDN/NFV opportunities and services geared toward the B2B segment, such as data center and cloud computing, where vendors can leverage network services and management solutions.SynopsisBrazil: Demand for Mobile Data Services Remains Strong Amid Challenging Macroeconomic Conditions provides an executive-level overview of the telecommunications market in Brazil today, with detailed forecasts of key indicators up to 2021. It delivers deep quantitative and qualitative insight into the Brazilian telecom market, analyzing key trends, evaluating near-term opportunities and assessing risk factors, based on proprietary data from Pyramid Researchs databases.The Country Intelligence Report provides in-depth analysis of the following: Regional context: telecom market size and trends in Brazil compared with other countries in the Latin American region. Economic, demographic and political context in Brazil. The regulatory environment and trends: a review of the regulatory setting and agenda for the next 18-24 months as well as relevant developments pertaining to national broadband plans and other infrastructure developments. A demand profile: analysis as well as historical figures and forecasts of service revenue from the fixed telephony, broadband, mobile voice and mobile data segments. Service evolution: a look at changes in the breakdown of overall revenue between the fixed and mobile sectors and between voice, data and video from 2014 to 2021. The competitive landscape: an examination of key trends in competition and in the performance, revenue market shares and expected moves of service providers over the next 18-24 months. In-depth sector analysis of fixed telephony, broadband, mobile voice and mobile data services: a quantitative analysis of service adoption trends by network technology and by operator, as well as of average revenue per line/subscription and service revenue through the end of the forecast period. Main opportunities: this section details the near-term opportunities for operators, vendors and investors in the Brazilian telecommunications market.Reasons to Buy Gain in-depth analysis of current strategies and future trends of the Brazilian telecommunications market, service providers and key opportunities in a concise format, to build proactive and profitable growth strategies. Understand the factors behind ongoing and upcoming trends in the Brazilian communications, fixed telephony and broadband markets, including the evolution of service provider market shares, to align product offerings and strategies to meet customers demand. Leverage the graphical information (more than 20 charts and tables in the report based on the forecast products), to gain an overview of Brazils telecom market. Analysis of key telecom players in the markets and major business strategies being adopted by them, to identify the opportunities to improve market share. Explore novel opportunities to align your product strategies and offerings to meet the requirements and succeed in the challenging telecommunications market in Brazil.Table of Content: Key PointsExecutive summaryMarket and competitor overviewRegional contextEconomic, demographic and political contextRegulatory environmentDemand profileService evolutionCompetitive landscapeMajor market playersSegment analysisMobile servicesFixed servicesPay-TVIdentifying opportunitiesOverall market opportunitiesContinuedACCESS REPORT @Get in touch:LinkedIn:Twitter:Facebook:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaWISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Global Leather Floor Market 2017-2022 Key Players: Armstrong, Forbo, Mohawk, Shaw Industries, Congoleum Corporation, Gerflor, Interface Incorporation, James Halstead Plc, The Dixie Group, Toli Corporation,.. Leather Floor Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/963178-global-leather-floor-market-research-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/963178-global-leather-floor-market-research-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=963178 Leather Floor Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Leather Floor Market 2017 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting to 2022reports to its database.Executive SummaryGeographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Leather Floor in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaRequest Sample Report @Global Leather Floor market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingArmstrongForboMohawkShaw IndustriesCongoleum CorporationGerflorInterface IncorporationJames Halstead PlcThe Dixie GroupToli CorporationOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoGenuine LeatherArtificial LeatherOn 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 Leather Floor for each application, includingResidentialCommercialIndustrialIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.For further information on this report, visit -Table of Content:Global Leather Floor Market Research Report 20171 Leather Floor Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Leather Floor1.2 Leather Floor Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Leather Floor Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Leather Floor Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Genuine Leather1.2.4 Artificial Leather1.3 Global Leather Floor Segment by Application1.3.1 Leather Floor Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Residential1.3.3 Commercial1.3.4 Industrial1.4 Global Leather Floor Market by Region (2012-2022)1.4.1 Global Leather Floor Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Leather Floor (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Leather Floor Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Leather Floor Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)2 Global Leather Floor Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Leather Floor Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Leather Floor Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Leather Floor Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Leather Floor Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Leather Floor Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.4 Manufacturers Leather Floor Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Leather Floor Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Leather Floor Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Leather Floor Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion3 Global Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2012-2017)3.1 Global Leather Floor Capacity and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.2 Global Leather Floor Production and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.3 Global Leather Floor Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.4 Global Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.5 North America Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.6 Europe Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.7 China Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.8 Japan Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.9 Southeast Asia Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.10 India Leather Floor Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)4 Global Leather Floor Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Region (2012-2017)4.1 Global Leather Floor Consumption by Region (2012-2017)4.2 North America Leather Floor Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.3 Europe Leather Floor Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.4 China Leather Floor Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.5 Japan Leather Floor Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.6 Southeast Asia Leather Floor Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.7 India Leather Floor Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)5 Global Leather Floor Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type5.1 Global Leather Floor Production and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)5.2 Global Leather Floor Revenue and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)5.3 Global Leather Floor Price by Type (2012-2017)5.4 Global Leather Floor Production Growth by Type (2012-2017)6 Global Leather Floor Market Analysis by Application6.1 Global Leather Floor Consumption and Market Share by Application (2012-2017)6.2 Global Leather Floor Consumption Growth Rate by Application (2012-2017)6.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities6.3.1 Potential Applications6.3.2 Emerging Markets/CountriesContinuousBuy this Report @Contact Us:Norah Trentsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US); +44 208 133 9349 (UK)About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042 Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market Insights by Size, Status & Application Forecast to 2022 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/744875-global-monitoring-systems-for-tunnel-ventilation-market-2 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/744875-global-monitoring-systems-for-tunnel-ventilation-market-2 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=744875 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/744875-global-monitoring-systems-for-tunnel-ventilation-market-2 HTF MI recently added a new research study in its database that highlights the in-depth market analysis with future prospects of Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market. The study covers significant data which makes the research document a handy resource for marketing managers, analysts, industry executives, consultants, sales and product managers, and other key people who are in need of ready-to-access and self analyzed study along with graphs and tables to help understand market trends, drivers and market challenges. Some of the key players mentioned in this research are Siemens, ABB, Honeywell, Conspec, CODEL, PBE, Sick & OPSIS.Get Access to sample pages @The research covers the current market size of the Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market and its growth rates based on 5 year history data. It also covers various types of segmentation such as by geography [United States, EU, Japan, China, India & Southeast Asia], by product /end user type [Multipoint & Detached], by applications [Highway Tunnels, Railway Tunnels, Subway Tunnels & Other] in overall market. The in-depth information by segments of Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market helps monitor performance & make critical decisions for growth and profitability. It provides information on trends and developments, focuses on markets and materials, capacities, technologies, CAPEX cycle and the changing structure of the Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation Market.The study also contains company profiling, product picture and specifications, sales, market share and contact information of various international, regional, and local vendors of Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation Market, some of them are Siemens, ABB, Honeywell, Conspec, CODEL, PBE, Sick & OPSIS. The market competition is constantly growing higher with the rise in technological innovation and M&A activities in the industry. Moreover, many local and regional vendors are offering specific application products for varied end-users. The new vendor entrants in the market are finding it hard to compete with the international vendors based on quality, reliability, and innovations in technology.Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation (Thousands Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type such as Multipoint & DetachedMarket Segment by Type 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Multipoint xx xx xx xx xx Xx xx-Change (%) xx% xx% xx% xx% xx% xx% xx%Detached xx xx xx xx xx Xx xx-Change (%) xx% xx% xx% xx% xx% xx% xx%The research study is segmented by Application such as Highway Tunnels, Railway Tunnels, Subway Tunnels & Other with historical and projected market share and compounded annual growth rate.Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation (Thousands Units) by Application (2016-2022)Market Segment by Application2012 2016 2022 Market Share (%)2022 CAGR (%)(2016-2022)Highway Tunnels xx xx xx xx% xx%Railway Tunnels xx xx xx xx% xx%Subway Tunnels xx xx xx xx% xx%Other xx xx xx xx% xx%Total xx xx xx 100% xx%Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringMarket Segment by Regions2012 2016 2022 Share (%) CAGR (2016-2022)United States xx xx xx xx% xx%EU xx xx xx xx% xx%Japan xx xx xx xx% xx%China xx xx xx xx% xx%India xx xx xx xx% xx%Southeast Asia xx xx xx xx% xx%Total xx xx xx xx% xx%Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @The research insights solutions to the following key questions: What will be the market size and the growth rate in 2022? What are the key factors driving the Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market? Who are the key market players and what are their strategies in the Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market? What are the key market trends impacting the growth of the Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market? What trends, challenges and barriers are influencing its growth? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the vendors in the Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market? What are the key outcomes of the five forces analysis of the Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market?Buy this research report @There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the Global Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market.Chapter 1, to describe Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation , with sales, revenue, and price of Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation , 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 Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation , for each region, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in United States, EU, Japan, China, India & Southeast Asia;Chapter 10 and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application [Highway Tunnels, Railway Tunnels, Subway Tunnels & Other], from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 12, Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Monitoring Systems for Tunnel Ventilation sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source.Get customization & check discount for report @Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact US :Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager)HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJNew Jersey USA 08837sales@htfmarketreport.com+1 (206) 317 1218 Vacuum Coating Equipment Market Showing 8% CAGR Growth to 2024: Company Profiles & Trends Analysis https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/312361/?utm_source=opr-SK https://www.marketstudyreport.com/enquiry-before-buying/312361/?utm_source=opr-SK https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/vacuum-coating-equipment-market/?utm_source=FR-SK https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-vacuum-coating-equipments-sales-market-report-2017/?utm_source=RR-SK https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/category/news-releases/ MarketStudyReport.com adds a new Vacuum Coating Equipment Market Research Report for the period of 2016-2024 that shows the growth of the market is rising at a 8% CAGR to 2024.The industry has recorded substantial growth in past few years with varied applications in electronics, power generation, automotive sector etc. It is commonly used in the electronics industry for integrated circuits, photovoltaic devices and microelectronics. Global consumer electronics market will record a CAGR of 4% till 2024.Industrial automation and manufacturing of high-end vehicles have increased adoption of integrated circuits in these fields. Escalating electrical & electronics industry will ramp up Vacuum Coating Equipment Market demand.Request a sample copy of Vacuum Coating Equipment Market Research Report @Vacuum Coating Equipment Market size will cross USD 47 billion by 2024; as per new research report.PVD coating is applied on engine parts such as valve train components, drive train components, piston pins, piston rings, and gears. In 2013, over 21 million units of commercial vehicles were manufactured and in 2016, manufacturing crossed 22.8 million units. Global passenger vehicles sales registered a growth of 7.2% between March 2015 to March 2016. Increasing adoption of this coating in automobile industry and other industrial applications will strengthen vacuum coating equipment market in future. It is specifically replacing chrome plating, as chromium is carcinogenic in nature and is getting ban in many regions. On the other hand, complex machinery requirements and the need for skilled operators etc. are some of the factors that will hinder growth PVD coating penetration.PVD coating accounted for significant share of around 39% in vacuum coating equipment market in 2015. It has an edge over traditional coating methods (electroplating and painting) of providing longer shelf life, bright colors, and scratch resistant surface to the product. It provides a coating to engine components that reduces friction and wear between the parts, resulting in better efficiency and performance of the engine.Enquire about this report @Magnetron sputtering has wide and diversified applications such as in gas sensors, corrosion-resistant films, magnetic films, metallizing for microelectronic circuits and chip carriers. Metallizing is an innovative technology replacing electroplating in electronics industry. Magnetron sputtering application will grow above 9% CAGR in global vacuum coating equipment market till 2024.Asia Pacific contributes significantly in the market with nearly 50% share in revenue generation. Rapid industrialization has increased energy requirements of this region and boosted power generation industry significantly. Leading players of smartphone are foraying into manufacturing of premium smartphones category which requires luxurious external body display this in turn will stimulate vacuum coating equipment market demand.Positive outlook of automobile market in Germany, makes Europe a significant region in global vacuum coating equipment market. The market revenues in Germany crossed USD 910 million 2015. Vacuum coating equipment market is consolidated with few major manufacturers mainly such as Buhler AG, PVD Products Inc, BCI Blosch group, Applied Materials Inc, Singulus Technologies AG, and Kolzer SRL.These equipment's are cost-intensive, so most of the companies have their own extensive distribution network and sales offices across different regions. For instance, Buhler AG develops vacuum coating equipment and distributes through its own shipping and transportation services.Read full report description @Related Reports: -Global Vacuum Coating Equipments Sales Market Report 2017In this report, the global Vacuum Coating Equipments 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 20...About Us:Centralize market research purchases across your entire organization in one place.Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Market Study ReportThe Green Suite #4594,Dover, DE 19901United StatesPhone: 1-201-355-0868US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:News: Digital Glass Military Aircraft Cockpit Systems Market Explores New Growth Opportunities By 2026 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1787 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-1787 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ A digital glass cockpit, also known as electronic flight information systems (EFIS) and cockpit display system (CDS), is an aircraft cockpit that consist digital flight instrument displays, generally large LCD screens, instead of conventional analog dials and gauges. A digital glass cockpit simplifies aircraft operations and navigation by enabling the usage of several displays driven by flight management systems, that can be adjusted (multi-function display) to display flight information as needed.A sample of this report is available upon request @Advanced digital glass cockpit systems utilize LCD screens to display crucial flight information. Digital glass cockpit displays systems are based around primary flight displays (PFDs), engine indications and crew alerting system (EICAS) and multifunction displays (MFDs). This enables the replacement of mechanical flight instrument gauges with graphical representations of information from onboard and external sensors and navigation systems.The digital glass cockpits are being increasingly adopted by military and defense along with airline companies, as they eliminate the need for a flight engineer, in turn reducing costs. In recent past, this digital glass cockpit has become widely available in small aircrafts too.Market Overview:Digital glass cockpit systems, which were prevalent in the civil aviation sector, are being increasingly adopted among military aircraft operators, in order to add capabilities to their fleets. Along with facilitating reduction in information management workload for pilots coordinating large networks of sensors and platforms, digital glass cockpits offer advantages such as weight and power savings, enabling easier interaction with air traffic control, and enable faster training for new pilots.Market Dynamics:The cockpits of both fixed and rotary-wing military aircraft are going digital. These glass cockpits facilitate the pilot's tasks throughout the flight, especially under difficult conditions, by improving access to vital information. The global market of digital glass military aircraft cockpit systems is mainly driven by the advantages offered by these systems over traditional cockpit systems. These advantages include the enhanced accuracy and precision of automation systems, and more ergonomic display of the data. These glass cockpits also comprise feedback loops and self-checking capabilities to alert the pilot about threats before they become emergencies. Additionally, these advanced system offers checklist of issues, the pilot can utilize to troubleshoot a problem and correct it immediately.However, as the aircraft operations become increasingly dependent on digital glass cockpit systems, flight crews must be trained to deal with possible failures. In recent years, several incidents involving glass-cockpit blackout have occurred. Therefore, proper training is considered as one of the key components for reducing miss happenings of aircrafts equipped with digital glass cockpit systems.To counter these blackouts, aircrafts with digital glass cockpit systems are provided with backup analogue displays for key flight instruments including airspeed indicator and altimeter.Market Segmentation:Global digital glass military aircraft cockpit systems market is mainly classified on the basis of system, end use sector and geographies.On the basis of system, global digital glass military aircraft cockpit systems market is segmented into Multi-function flight display systems, Primary flight display systems and EICAS (Engine-indicating and crew-alerting system).On the basis of end use sector, global digital glass military aircraft cockpit systems market is segmented as general aviation, commercial aviation and the defense & aerospace.On the basis of geographies, global market of BTS is segmented into 7 key regions:North AmericaLatin AmericaWestern EuropeEastern EuropeAsia Pacific Excluding JapanJapanMiddle East & AfricaPresently, North America is holds the majority share in the digital glass cockpit systems market. However, the region is expected to lose its share to Asia Pacific region during the forecast period, mainly due to falling defense expenditure in North America. In the APAC region, India, China and Japan are expected to lead the growth in the forecast period.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Key Market PlayersThe major players active in the Global digital glass cockpit systems market include Honeywell Aerospace, GE Aviation, Garmin Ltd., Avidyne Corporation, MGL Avionics, Lockheed Martin, Elbit Systems Ltd., Esterline Technologies Corporation, Airbus Group SE and Rockwell Collins, Inc.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Contact UsU.S. Office616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWeb: Foaming Coffee Creamer Market-Future Demand, Market Analysis & Outlook 2017-2022 https://goo.gl/s55CtW https://goo.gl/2zWWcg https://goo.gl/QaRaXD https://goo.gl/SuQhhv The Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Research Report 2017 renders deep perception of the key regional market status of the Foaming Coffee Creamer Industry on a Global level that primarily aims the core regions which comprises of continents like Europe, North America, and Asia and the key countries such as United States, Germany, China and Japan.For Request a Sample Click @The report on Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Market is a professional report which provides thorough knowledge along with complete information pertaining to the Foaming Coffee Creamer industry propos classifications, definitions, applications, industry chain summary, industry policies in addition to plans, product specifications, manufacturing processes, cost structures, etc.Scope of Report:The report cloaks the market analysis and projection of Foaming Coffee Creamer Market on a regional as well as Global level. The report constitutes qualitative and quantitative valuation by industry analysts, first-hand data, assistance from industry experts along with their most recent verbatim and each industry manufacturers via the market value chain. The research experts have additionally assessed the in general sales and revenue generation of this particular market.In addition, this report also delivers widespread analysis of root market trends, several governing elements and macro-economic indicators, coupled with market improvements as per every segment. Furthermore, the report contains diverse profiles of primary market players of Foaming Coffee Creamer Market.Read a Full Report of Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Research -@Global Foaming Coffee Creamer market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players including FrieslandCampina Kievit Kerry Group Mokate Ingredients Meggle Santho Holland Food BV Prinsen Custom Food Group Tastiway Sdn. Bhd PT Lautan Natural Krimerindo Food Excellence Specialist PT. Santos Premium Krimer Almer Super Food Ingredients Suzhou Jiahe Foods Industry Wenhui Food Yak-casein Shandong Tianjiao BiotechOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into Coconut Based Products Palm Based ProductsOn 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 Foaming Coffee Creamer for each application, including Coffee (Cappuccino, Latte etc.) Chocolate Drinks Milk Tea and OthersThe report is generically segmented into six parts and every part aims on the overview of the Foaming Coffee Creamer industry, present condition of the market, feasibleness of the investment along with several strategies and policies.Apart from the definition and classification, the report also discusses the analysis of import and export and describes a comparison of the market that is focused on the trends and development. Along with entire framework in addition to in-depth details, one can prepare and stay ahead of the competitors across the targeted locations.Ask for Discount @The fact that this market report renders details about the major market players along with their product development and current trends proves to be very beneficial for fresh entrants to comprehend and recognize the industry in an improved manner. The report also enlightens the productions, sales, supply, market condition, demand, growth, and forecast of the Foaming Coffee Creamer industry in the Global markets.Some points from TOC:-Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Research Report 20171 Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Foaming Coffee Creamer1.2 Foaming Coffee Creamer Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Coconut Based Products1.2.4 Palm Based Products1.3 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Segment by Application1.3.1 Foaming Coffee Creamer Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Coffee (Cappuccino, Latte etc.)1.3.3 Chocolate Drinks1.3.4 Milk Tea and Others1.4 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Market by Region (2012-2022)1.4.1 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Foaming Coffee Creamer (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)2 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Foaming Coffee Creamer Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.4 Manufacturers Foaming Coffee Creamer Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Foaming Coffee Creamer Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, ExpansionEnquiry before Buying @About Us:QY Research Groups 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. QY Research Groups 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:Jia Wang, Room B1510, ShijiKemao Building, No.66,Zhongguancun East Road,Haidian District, Beijing, 100190,China Detailed Analysis Of Global Milk Replacers market Size, Share Report 2017-2022 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/1346244 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/reports/1346244/global-milk-replacers-detailed-analysis-report-2017-2022-market-research-reports https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/enquiry/1346244 http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ "The Report Global Milk Replacers Detailed Analysis Report 2017-2022 provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"This report mainly introduces volume and value market share by players, by regions, by product type, by consumers and also their price change details. As a Detailed Analysis report, it covers all details inside analysis and opinion in Milk Replacers industry.This report splits Milk Replacers market By Livestock, By Source, By Form, which covers the history data information from 2012 to 2016 and forecast from 2017 to 2022.This report focuses Global market, it covers details as following:Major CompaniesCargill (U.S.)Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.)CHS Inc. (U.S.)Land O?Lakes (U.S.)Lactalis Group (France)Glanbia, Plc (Ireland)VanDrie Group (Netherlands)FrieslandCampina (Netherlands)Nutreco N.V. (Netherlands)Alltech (U.S.)Calf Solutions (U.S.)Get Sample Copy Of This Report @Main RegionsNorth AmericaUnited StatesCanadaLatin AmericaMexicoBrazilArgentinaOthersEuropeGermanyUnited KingdomFranceItalySpainRussiaNetherlandOthersAsia & PacificChinaJapanIndiaKoreaAustraliaSoutheast AsiaIndonesiaThailandPhilippinesVietnamSingaporeMalaysiaOthersAfrica & Middle EastSouth AfricaEgyptTurkeySaudi ArabiaIranOthersView Report @Main Product TypeMilk Replacers Market, by LivestockRuminantsSwineEquineMilk Replacers Market, by SourceMilk-basedNon milk-basedBlendedMilk Replacers Market, by FormPowderLiquidMain ApplicationsMedicatedNon-medicatedSend An Enquiry Request @Table of ContentsGlobal Milk Replacers Detailed Analysis Report 2017-2022Chapter One Milk Replacers Market Overview1.1 Global Milk Replacers Market Sales Volume Revenue and Price 2012-20221.2 Milk Replacers, By Livestock 2012-20221.2.1 Global Milk Replacers Sales Market Share by Livestock 2012-20221.2.2 Global Milk Replacers Revenue Market Share by Livestock 2012-20221.2.3 Global Milk Replacers Price by Livestock 2012-20221.2.4 Ruminants1.2.5 Swine1.2.6 Equine1.3 Milk Replacers, by Source 2012-20221.3.1 Global Milk Replacers Sales Market Share by Source 2012-20221.3.2 Global Milk Replacers Revenue Market Share by Source 2012-20221.3.3 Global Milk Replacers Price by Source 2012-20221.3.4 Milk-based1.3.5 Non milk-based1.3.6 Blended1.4 Milk Replacers, by Form 2012-20221.4.1 Global Milk Replacers Sales Market Share by Form 2012-20221.4.2 Global Milk Replacers Revenue Market Share by Form 2012-20221.4.3 Global Milk Replacers Price by Form 2012-20221.4.4 Powder1.4.5 LiquidChapter Two Milk Replacers by Regions 2012-20172.1 Global Milk Replacers Sales Market Share by Regions 2012-20172.2 Global Milk Replacers Revenue Market Share by Regions 2012-20172.3 Global Milk Replacers Price by Regions 2012-20172.4 North America2.4.1 United States2.4.2 Canada2.5 Latin America2.5.1 Mexico2.5.2 Brazil2.5.3 Argentina2.5.4 Others in Latin America2.6 Europe2.6.1 Germany2.6.2 United Kingdom2.6.3 France2.6.4 Italy2.6.5 Spain2.6.6 Russia2.6.7 Netherland2.6.8 Others in Europe2.7 Asia & Pacific2.7.1 China2.7.2 Japan2.7.3 India2.7.4 Korea2.7.5 Australia2.7.6 Southeast Asia2.7.6.1 Indonesia2.7.6.2 Thailand2.7.6.3 Philippines2.7.6.4 Vietnam2.7.6.5 Singapore2.7.6.6 Malaysia2.7.6.7 Others in Southeast Asia2.8 Africa & Middle East2.8.1 South Africa2.8.2 Egypt2.8.3 Turkey2.8.4 Saudi Arabia2.8.5 Iran2.8.6 Others in Africa & Middle EastChapter Three Milk Replacers by Players 2012-20173.1 Global Milk Replacers Sales Volume Market Share by Players 2012-20173.2 Global Milk Replacers Revenue Share by Players 2012-20173.3 Global Top Players Milk Replacers Key Product Model and Market Performance3.4 Global Top Players Milk Replacers Key Target Consumers and Market PerformanceChapter Four Milk Replacers by Consumer 2012-20174.1 Global Milk Replacers Sales Market Share by Consumer 2012-20174.2 Medicated4.3 Non-medicated4.4 Consuming Habit and PreferenceChapter Five Global Top Players Profile5.1 Cargill (U.S.)5.1.1 Cargill (U.S.) Company Details and Competitors5.1.2 Cargill (U.S.) Key Milk Replacers Models and Performance5.1.3 Cargill (U.S.) Milk Replacers Business SWOT Analysis and Forecast5.1.4 Cargill (U.S.) Milk Replacers Sales Volume Revenue Price Cost and Gross Margin5.2 Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.)5.2.1 Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.) Company Details and Competitors5.2.2 Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.) Key Milk Replacers Models and Performance5.2.3 Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.) Milk Replacers Business SWOT Analysis and Forecast5.2.4 Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.) Milk Replacers Sales Volume Revenue Price Cost and Gross Margin5.3 CHS Inc. (U.S.)5.3.1 CHS Inc. (U.S.) Company Details and Competitors5.3.2 CHS Inc. (U.S.) Key Milk Replacers Models and Performance5.3.3 CHS Inc. (U.S.) Milk Replacers Business SWOT Analysis and Forecast5.3.4 CHS Inc. (U.S.) Milk Replacers Sales Volume Revenue Price Cost and Gross MarginMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.Mr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:Email: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Worldwide Ship Plate Market Analysis, Market Share, Application Analysis, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies & Forecast by 2022 https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/133894//?utm_source=SPR-SP https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/133894//?utm_source=SPR-SP https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-ship-plate-market-by-manufacturers-countries-type-and-application-forecast-to-2022//?utm_source=OPR-SP https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/united-states-ship-plate-market-by-manufacturers-states-type-and-application-forecast-to-2022//?utm_source=RR-SP https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/category/news-releases/ The Ship Plate Market Research Report Forecast 2017-2022 is a valuable source of insightful data for business strategists. It provides the Ship Plate industry overview with growth analysis and historical & futuristic cost, revenue, demand and supply data (as applicable). The research analysts provide an elaborate description of the value chain and its distributor analysis.The ship plate is a hot rolled steel sheet produced to manufacture hull structures as required by the code of conduct. In the 1870s carbon was added to molten iron to make steel. Iron and steel were soon being used in ship production. These irons and steels were known as ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) iron and steel. They constitute specific types of iron and steel utilized to build ships. How they are manufactured and used is regulated by the ABS standardized grading and specification system.Request a Free sample PDF of this research to evaluate more @Scope of the Global Ship Plate Market Report:This report focuses on the Ship Plate 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, Global Ship Plate Market report covers as POSCO, JFE Steel, NSSMC, Baosteel, Valin Xiangtan Steel, Chongqing Steel, Ansteel, Nanjing Steel, Dongkuk, SD Steel, Xinyu Steel, Hyundai, ArcelorMittal and Shougang Group.Global Ship Plate Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis covers:North America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa).Global Ship Plate Market Segment by Type, covers as General Strength Ship Plate and High Strength Ship PlateGlobal Ship Plate Market Segment by Applications, can be divided into: Tankers, Bulk Carriers, Container Ships and Chemical ShipsEnquire Discount on Global Ship Plate Market Research Report @There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the global Ship Plate market.Chapter 1, to describe Ship Plate Market Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Ship Plate, with sales, revenue, and price of Ship Plate, 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 Ship Plate market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Ship Plate, for each region, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to Ship Plate Industry analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions;Chapter 10 and 11, to show the Ship Plate Market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 12, Ship Plate market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Ship Plate Industry sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source.For more information on this report, Please visit at:Related Reports: -United States Ship Plate Market by Manufacturers, States, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022The ship plate is a hot rolled steel sheet produced to manufacture hull structures as required by the code of conduct. In the 1870s carbon was added to molten iron to make steel. Iron and steel were soon being used in ship production. These irons and steels were known as ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) iron and steel.Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Market Study ReportThe Green Suite #4594,Dover, DE 19901United StatesPhone: 1-201-355-0868US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:News: Magnesium Sulphate Market has very wide market and it has been valued as $ 10,731.05 million by 2027 with a CAGR of 4.28% Magnesium Sulphate Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2282 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/magnesium-sulphate-market-2282 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/2282 Synopsis of Magnesium Sulphate Market:Magnesium Sulphate is a chemical compound which is a mixture of magnesium, oxygen,and sulphur. Magnesium sulphate often faced as sulphate mineral & epsomite which are commonly known as Epsom Salt. Applications of magnesium sulpjhate have spreaded across many industries such as healthcare, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food additives and other industries as well. In medical, it is used both i.e. internally as well as externally. Global Magnesium Sulphate Market has very wide market in 21st century and it has been valued as $ 10,731.05 million by 2027 with a CAGR of 4.28%.MRFR analyst has projected that healthcare sector in India is expected to grow around $285 billion by the year 2020 which implies more demand for medicine. Another driver for Magnesium Sulphate Market is revolution in agriculture. As new technologies are coming in field of farming, demand for magnesium sulphate is increasing. As new processes are coming out from R&D department of companies about the use of magnesium sulphate demand for Magnesium Sulphate Market is increasing and will keep increasing. On the contrary, allergic reactions such as skin infection, diarrhoea or upset stomach could hamper the growth of the market.Request a Sample Report @Global Magnesium Sulphate Market Key Players:The major key players of this market are: COMPO GmbH & Co. KG, U.S. Chemicals LLC, Baymag, QingHai Salt Lake Industry, SDIC Xinjiang Luobupo Potash, Geermuzige Potash,Qinghai Hanhai Group, Rech Chemical, Yash Chemicals, Hengyang Jumbo Feed Additives, Jinxing Chemical, K+S Group, KOLOD, Mani Agro Chem, HebeiRongkemeiye and others.Market Highlights:The need for Magnesium Sulphate is gradually rising due to constraining factors such as rising global population, increasing food demand and decreasing arable land, among others. Magnesium Sulphate is a chemical compound which is a mix of magnesium, sulphur & oxygen. Its formula is MgSO4. Magnesium Sulphate frequently faced as sulphate mineral & epsomite are also knows as Epsom Salt. It is a key raw material used in many sectors such as Food industries, Chemical industries, Research and Development, Healthcare & Agriculture, among others. In medical, it is used both i.e. internally & externally. It is also used in main preparation of intravenous magnesium. Use of internal includes- replacements therapy hypomagnesaemia, exacerbations of asthma, eclampsia & cerebral palsy. External use include in pregnancy. In the agricultural and farming sector, (Magnesium Sulphate helps to correct magnesium deficiency) Magnesium Sulphate is kind of fertilizer used in especially promoting healthier growth of plants such as tomatoes among others. However, allergic reactions such as skin infection, diarrhoea or upset stomach could hamper the growth of the market.Following are the key drivers which largely helped in boosting the worldwide growth of Global Magnesium Sulphate Market are as: increased pressure on farmers to enhance the food quality , whether a farmer performs an operation in an extensive scale or little scale, they require credit facilities for the buy of costly equipments, ferilizers among others through a well-developed financial market. To obtain maximum profits from their products, it is important for farmers to maintain quality of the products offered which will further create demand for Magnesium Sulphate in the global marke. In-addition, to increase the supply of the food and speed of the agricultural productivity, the demand for magnesium sulphate is increasing so as to get maximum output. Additionally, the population in a number of countries is growing with time which has led to the increase in the overall demand of food and has created demand for magnesium sulphate in the global market.Browse Full Report Details @As per the International Fertilizer Industry Association: The fertilizers demand is rising steadily in 2015 and 2016. Global fertilizer demand is estimated to reach 200 million tones by 2020 Global fertilizer demand to grow by 1.5% to 2% per annum in the next five years.Key Points from Table of Contents:10 Company Profile10.1 K+S Kali Gmbh10.2 Baymag Company Profile10.3 U.S. Chemicals Company Profile10.4 Qinghai Salt Lake Industry Co Ltd Company Profile10.5 Sdic Xinjiang Luobupo PotashCompany Profile10.6 Qinghai Hanhai Group Co., Ltd. Company Profile10.7 Rech Chemical Co. Ltd Company Profile10.8 Yash Chemicals Company Profile10.9 Zibo Jinxing Chemical Co Ltd Company Profile10.10 Compo Expert Gmbh & Co. Kg Company Profile10.11 Mani Agro Chem Company Profile10.12 Dalian Star Grace Mining Co., Ltd Company Profile10.13 Laizhou City Laiyu Chemical Co.,Ltd Company Profile10.14 Changsha Green Mountain Chemical Co., Ltd10.15 Yingkou Magnesite Chemical Ind Group Co. Ltd10.16 Pq CorporationMake an Enquiry before buying @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 Components, 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.Contact:Market Research Future+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Canada Wind Energy Market - Analysis, Growth, Trends, Outlook to 2023 Canada Wind Energy Market https://www.bharatbook.com/request-sample/951020 https://www.bharatbook.com/alternative-renewable-market-research-reports-951020/canada-wind-energy.html www.bharatbook.com Bharat Book Bureau provides the Trending Market Research Report; on Canada Wind Energy Market - Analysis, Growth, Trends, Outlook to 2023Power market has a market value of USD XX billion in 2016. Further, increasing investments in new wind power plants are set to increase the market value of Canada power market to USD XX Billion in 2023, at a CAGR of XX%.Low costs of wind power coupled declining capital expenditures involved in installing wind mills and turbines is driving the government to encourage investments in wind power sector. Further, lowered generation and equipment costs coupled with favorable government policies also remain key drivers. Increased competition has lowered prices, enabling Canada to diversify its power generation sources and adhere to global carbon emission targets. Accordingly, Canada wind power market is expected to witness a boost in the number of planned projects and power generation, which in turn enables market value.On the regional scale, an increasing number of countries are successfully opting for wind power to restrain themselves from the burden of fuel subsidies. In sync with global trends of increasing demand for clean energy fuels, markets are framing flexible policies, thereby resulting in overall wind power market size increase. Further, this is attracting a large number of wind power equipment providers to evaluate opportunities in Canada and the regional wind power markets.Request a sample copy of Wind Energy Market Report @Heavy dependence on fossil fuels coupled with costs involved in shifting to clean energy sources remains one of the key restraints of growth in Canada market. Despite declines, investments required for setting up new wind mills are high. Further, the irregular behavior of wind energy for power generation poses challenges for uninterrupted power generation and thereby arriving at estimated netbacks. Despite these challenges, Canada's wind power market is expected to progress rapidly with increasing GDP and power demand. Technological advances are leading to overall cost reduction. Further, new initiatives being implemented through power storage technologies will aid in reducing interruptions and solving other constraints associated with Canada wind power.Canada wind power market research report from LNG Analysis provides the comprehensive analysis of the market provides key drivers, challenges affecting market growth. The report also provides key project profiles including existing, under construction and proposed wind power plants. The study also includes competitive landscape in Canada wind power market providing details of major market players including domestic and international.To Browse the Entire Report, Visit:About Bharat Book Bureau:Bharat Book Bureau is the leading market research information provider for market research reports, company profiles, industry study, country reports, business reports, newsletters and online databases Bharat Book Bureau provides over a million reports from more than 400 publishers around the globe. We cover sectors starting from Aeronautics to Zoology.Contact us at:Bharat Book BureauTel: +91 22 27810772 / 27810773Email: poonam@bharatbook.comWebsite:Follow us on: Twitter|Facebook|LinkedIn|Google Plus Image Detection Sensor Market: Advanced Technologies & Growth Opportunities In Global Industry https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=23093 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/image-detection-sensor-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/23093 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Led by a large pool of players, the global Image Detection Sensor Market have been displaying a consolidated and a competitive landscape, finds a new research report by Transparency Market Research, (TMR). The top four players in this market, namely, FLIR Systems, Cognex, Emerson Electric Co., and Texas Instruments Inc., accounted for more than 70% of this market in 2015.With a lower scope of new companies entering the market, the competition within it is likely to remain so over the next few years, states the research report.According to the study, the global image detection sensor market was worth US$9.67 bn in 2015. Rising at a CAGR of 9.60% during the period from 2016 to 2024, the opportunity in this market is likely to reach a value of US$22.01 bn by the end of the forecast period. In terms of technology, the CMOS segment has been leading this market and is expected to remain doing so in the near future, thanks to the increasing awareness among consumers regarding the benefits of CMOS, such as single chip IC integration and low power dissipation.Sample With Latest Advancements @Asia Pacific to Continue as Market LeaderThe report also presents a geographical analysis of the worldwide market for image detection sensors. According to it, the Middle East and Africa, Europe, North America, Latin America, and Asia Pacific are the key regional markets for image detection sensors across the world. In 2015, Asia Pacific led the global market with a share of more than 35%.Analysts anticipate it to remain on the top over the forecast period, thanks to the increasing application of image detection sensing technology in automobiles, consumer electronics, and defense application in this region. The upswing in the application of thermal sensors in the aerospace and defense industry is also expected to drive the Asia Pacific market for image detection sensors in the near future.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @On the basis of application, the market segments the global image detection sensors market into photography and imaging. The imaging segment has occupied the leading position in this market. However, photography has the necessary potential to rise further in the next few years.Widespread Usage of CMOS and CCD Sensors in Various Cameras to Boost MarketThe global image detection sensor market is being heavily influenced by the rising application of image detection sensors in the automotive, consumer electronics, and the healthcare sectors, says an analyst at TMR. Nowadays, CMOS and CCD sensors are finding a widespread application in PC cameras, point-and-shoot cameras, mobile front and back cameras, tablet displays, and lighting solutions, which, coupled with technological advancements, is likely to boost this market substantially during the forecast period.Browse Our Table of Content @Going forward, the increasing application of image detection sensors in applications for photography in consumer electronics and the wide-ranging usage of CMOS sensors in smartphone cameras, owing to their cost efficiency will benefit this market remarkably over the next few years. However, the declining demand for still cameras and the increasing price sensitivity in the consumer products market may hamper the progress of the global image detection sensor market in the years to come, states the research 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. 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: How the Recent CDC Frozen Foods Recall Will Impact IQF Fruits Market? http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/11365 http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/individual-quick-freeze-fruits-market.asp A majority health conscious people consider fresh fruits as the best complement to a healthy, wholesome meal. Frozen fruits allow you to indulge in a fresh fruity treat every day; not only native but exotic as well. Theyre ready-to-eat and available all through the year. While packaged food industry has changed the face of food and beverages market since the past few decades, frozen foods have particularly gained prominence in the recent past due to utter convenience, safety, quality, and available variety.Download Sample Report @IQF Serves Best to Fruits and BerriesProcess of freezing foods, precisely vegetables, fruits, and berries, involves a technology that ensures endured shelf life and high nutritional value in them individual quick freezing (IQF). IQF fruits is a vast segment of frozen fruits market, accounting for a major revenue share.Proven to be superior to conventional dehydration and canning processes, quick freezing has its own set of benefits. Preservation by freezing assures high nutritional quality maintained in fresh agricultural produce throughout longer storage periods. Furthermore, IQF enables individual freezing of fruits, preventing clumping or deformation of fruit slices or cubes inside the package. It also keeps their color and texture intact, which is as critical as maintaining their nutritional value.IQF Fruits MarketIQF fruits and berries have been recording robust demand from bakery and confectionary sectors since years. Strawberry has however been attracting the highest revenues to market, nearly 45% by volume. Blueberry also accounts for considerable sales globally. Manufacturers are introducing several new fruits flavors to market, supporting the demand for frozen fruits. The U.S. is undoubtedly the IQF blueberry market leader, capturing around 55% of the share with blueberry production.However, recently in March 2016, CDC in collaboration with FDA, USDA, and several state level public health officials, announced an initial frozen foods recall, following a major multistate Listeriosis outbreak.Browse Complete Report @CDC Frozen Foods Recall: What Does it Cover?Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterial species and has been detected to seriously infect children, elderly, and frail people through a host of frozen foods, both organic and inorganic, causing Listeriosis. Research indicates that frozen veggies, fruits, berries, and some other food products are the most likely source of illness in this outbreak. The initial CDC recall impacted a long list of 358 consumer products, including frozen fruits and berries, sold under 42 brands. The latest extended recall (May) hits around 400 products. As far as frozen fruits and berries are considered, the list includes cherries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries, and peaches.Immediate ImpactThe CDC recall has sent enough of shockwaves to the frozen foods industry, right after its announcement. Specific to the U.S., frozen fruit imports witnessed a drastic decline in imports and sales. Whereas, frozen fruit exports are also facing dramatically ceased market. While manufacturers and retailers are experiencing a strong impact of this biggest recall in the U.S. till date, consumers are highly concerned about what theyve already purchased and might have eaten it too.Most of the products mentioned in the recall list were already distributed nationwide, and retailers have now been asked to remove all such products sold in and after 2014, off their shelves. Consumers are however asked to return such products if theyve purchased so within 2014-2016, getting complete refund.Long-term AftermathInvestigation about the source and potential hazards of Listeria is still in progress and it may take a great deal of time to reach a decisive point in this matter. But looking at the initial impact of the CDC-FDA-USDA recall for frozen foods, its quite clear that the prospects for frozen fruits industry are not very bright, at least in the near future.About PMRPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Ourresearch model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.Contact PMR305 Broadway,7th FloorNew York City, NY 10007United StatesT: +1-646-568-7751Tollfree: +1 800-961-0353 Load Cells Market: Key Trends, Industry Opportunities And Projections for Upcoming Year https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=1104 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/load-cells-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/1104 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com According to a new research report by Transparency Market Research (TMR), the global Load Cell Market demonstrates a highly competitive and a fragmented structure due to the presence of a large number of players. The top three players, namely, Mettler-Toledo International Inc., Precia Molen, and Vishay Precision Group Inc., could hold only 20% of the overall market in 2015.Hitherto, product innovations, strategic acquisitions and diversifying production operations have been the key strategies adopted by the leading players in this market to remain competitive. They are also expected to focus aggressively on OEM customers and the decreasing of manufacturing cost through relocation of production plants in emerging economies, notes the research study.Sample With Latest Advancements @Analysts at TMR estimated the global market for load cells to rise at a CAGR of 3.50% during the period from 2016 to 2024, increasing the markets opportunity from US$1.87 bn in 2015 to US$2.55 bn by the end of the forecast period. Currently, analog load cells have been registering a higher demand than digital load cells and the scenario is projected to remain so throughout the period of the forecast.Europe to Register Lead with 2.9% CAGR between 2016 and 2024Geographically, the global market for load cells has been classified into Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America in this research report. Among these, Europe has acquired the leading position, thanks to the increased application of these cells in the oil and gas, automotive, aerospace and defense, and the bulk material handling industries. Analysts project this regional market to remain leading throughout the forecast period, rising at a CAGR of 2.90%.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @The presence of a large pool of companies, catering to bulk material handling industries, such as the cement, coal and iron ore mining, and railway sectors, is also expected to support the Europe market for load cells in the years to come. Germany and the U.K. are anticipated to surface as the prime domestic players in this regional market over the next few years.The report considers the bulk material handling, retail, healthcare, agriculture equipment, oil and gas, aerospace and defense, and the automotive industries as the key end users of load cells. The oil and gas industry has been recording a greater demand for load cells than other end user and is expected to continue doing so over the forecast period, states the research report.Browse Our Table of Content @Increasing Usage of Digital Load Cells in Heavy Lifting Industry to Boost Markets GrowthWith the growing demand for home hemodialysis (HHD) machines, the usage of load cells has increased phenomenally in the medical and healthcare sector, impacting the global load cell market greatly, says a TMR analyst. The rising need for infusion pumps, on account of the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, surging geriatric population, and the upswing in the number of surgical procedures, is likely to drive this market further in the near future.Although the future of this market looks thriving, it may face obstacles, such as the declining demand for analog load cells across various industries over the forecast period. However, the augmenting demand for digital load cells in the heavy lifting industry will create new growth opportunities for market players in the years to come, report the market study.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: Underfill Dispenser Market: Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=18908 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/underfill-dispenser-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/18908 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com The presence of several established players has rendered the global Underfill Dispenser Market highly fragmented. While new players are keen on venturing into the market, the high investment required in the research and development are restricting their entry. In order to gain pace, a majority of the companies are eyeing opportunities prevalent in untapped markets. Expanding regional footprint has therefore emerged as a key strategy. These companies are currently focusing on consolidating larger share in semiconductor industries especially across South America and the Middle East and Africa, finds Transparency Market Research (TMR) in a new study.Some of the key market players enjoying a stronger foothold are Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Nordson Corporation, MKS Instruments, Inc., and Zmation Inc. Besides funding innovation, these companies are focusing on mergers and acquisitions and expansion in Asia Pacific countries to expand their product portfolio and geographic footprint.Sample With Latest Advancements @According to TMR, the global underfill dispenser market is expected to reach US$91.19 bn by the end of 2025. The markets valuation in 2016 was US$42.73 bn. If these figures hold true, the global underfill dispenser market will exhibit a strong 8.9% CAGR between 2017 and 2025. By end use, flip chips contributed nearly 52.6% to the overall revenue generated by the market in 2016. Regionally, the Asia Pacific had clear dominance with a share of 64.4% in the global market based on revenue in 2016. The region is forecast to remain dominant through the course of the forecast period.Rising Demand for Handheld Devices Creating Lucrative Sales OpportunitiesThe market is primarily gaining from the increasing demand for handheld devices. Asia Pacific especially showcases lucrative market opportunities as it the home to a booming consumer electronics industry. The demand for handheld devices such as tablets and mobile phones is considerably high across nations such as India, Australia, China, and Japan. This in turn creates an environment conducive to growth of the underfill dispenser market in Asia Pacific, subsequently propelling the markets overall growth.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @Also, with the growing inclination towards miniaturizing gadgets, in future the demand for underfull dispenser is poised to rise exponentially. These factors are indicative of the rising willingness of consumers towards spending on advanced consumer electronics. Considering this, rising disposable income witnessed across emerging nations will subsequently steer the markets growth. On account of the increasing use of underfill dispensers in the automotive sectors, the market is bound to witness lucrative prospects especially in nations with strong automotive industry.High Investment in R&D Activities Dissuades Key Players thus Limiting GrowthOn the downside, the rising demand for low-cost packaging solutions will pose a major threat. The factor also connotes the declining profit margins as manufacturers are compelled to decrease prices of semiconductor packages and other electronic materials. Moreover, with the entry of new players, the semiconductor industry is likely to face intense price pressure from end users. This is a major bottleneck inhibiting the markets growth.Browse Our Table of Content @Also several market players are finding it difficult to cope with the high investment required for research and development. This makes companies reluctant to fund R&D activities, which could act against the overall market prospect.Entry of New Companies to Fuel Growth OpportunitiesNew companies targeting the underfill dispenser market are aiming to develop novel products, technologies, materials, or processes. Their intention being establishing a footprint in the market. Strategies adopted by these companies will not only trigger interest in end users, but will create lucrative growth opportunities. Besides this, several players are exploring opportunities in military and aerospace sectors. Spurred by these factors, the global underfill dispenser market will continue exhibiting healthy growth through the forecast period.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: Biochemical Sensors Market: Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=15875 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/biochemical-sensors-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/15875 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com The competition prevailing in the global Biochemical Sensor Market is considerably high. As leading companies fight out for the lead in the market, product innovations and launches are on cards. Besides this, investments in research and development have scaled higher as market players aim for emerging at the fore. In order to boost operations, several players are concentrating on expanding their regional footprint, especially in Asia Pacific. Cheap labor, abundance of raw materials, and the rising demand from emerging nations make the region highly lucrative for investment, finds Transparency Market Research (TMR) in a new study.Some of the most prominent names in the global biochemical sensor market are GE Healthcare, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Honeywell International, Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., and Polestar Technologies, Inc., among others. Besides aforementioned strategies, many of the market players are also pushing mergers and acquisitions to capitalize on their expertise and expand their product portfolio.Sample With Latest Advancements @Overall, the global biochemical sensor market will rise at a robust CAGR of 14.7% between 2017 and 2025. At this pace, the market is expected to reach US$58.48 bn by the end of 2025, from its valuation of US$17.1 bn in 2016. Based on product, electrochemical sensors constituted the leading segment with a share of 32% in 2016. Besides this, piezoelectric sensor, thermal sensor, gas sensor, and optical sensor make other key segments in terms of product.Regionally, North America held dominant with a share of over 29% in the global market in 2016. Europe and Asia Pacific followed closely as the second- and third-leading markets for biochemical in the same year. However, over the course of the forecast period, North America is likely to lose its market share, while Asia Pacific and Europe markets will witness accelerated pace of gains.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @Application across Diverse Industries, Especially Healthcare, to Boost GrowthAs biochemical sensors have found a leading end user in the healthcare sector, growth witnessed in the industry will subsequently fuel their demand. The healthcare infrastructure is a major consideration by governments when planning economic growth. Over the years, the industry has expanded exponentially. Additionally, investments in research and development are forecast to increase in the coming years. Biochemical sensors are used in the qualitative and quantitative assessment of clinical diagnosis in the healthcare sector, said a lead TMR analyst. The increasing aging population, coupled with the rising incidence of chronic ailments, will fuel the demand for precise diagnosis, thus providing significant impetus to the biochemical sensor market, he added.Besides this, government initiatives to ensure superior food quality, advancements in material chemistry and wireless networks, the rising demand for advanced wearable biochemical sensors, and the growing population of point of care diagnostics will create lucrative market opportunities. TMR also prophesized that the rising oil extraction worldwide will tip scales in favor of the market. Rise in oil extraction would result in greater percentage of inflammable and toxic in the air. Spurred by this, the use of biochemical sensors will increase to detect the presence of toxic gas.Browse Our Table of Content @High Cost of Biochemical Sensors to Limit SalesOn the downside, high cost of biochemical sensors will hinder the sales to an extent. In addition, complex product design and incompatibility with real-world application portend hard-time for the market. Nevertheless, advancements in the wireless technology will help reduce the impact of aforementioned bottlenecks. The market will also gain from the rapid proliferation of wearable technology.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: Polymeric Surfactants Market is driven by Growth of End-Use Industries Including Oil & Gas, Detergent and Personal Care Polymeric Surfactants Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/3901 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/polymeric-surfactants-market-3901 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/3901 Polymeric Surfactants or surface active polymers are produced with the combination of one or more macromolecular structure which possess hydrophilic and lipophilic monomer unit. Block and Graft are the two main configurations of polymeric surfactant. Orientation of hydrophilic and lipophilic monomer results in the desired graft or block type polymeric surfactant. In pharmaceuticals industry, polymeric surfactant is used in the formation of biodegradable nanoparticles used in targeted drug delivery. It is used to stabilize nano-emulsions in cosmetic and personal care industry due to its stabilizing properties. Continuous progress in these sectors has encouraged the polymeric surfactant manufactures to spend more on the R&D innovations.On the basis of region, Polymeric Surfactant Market segmentation includes the current and estimated demand of dispersants, wetting agents, and resins in emulsion polymerization in North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America and Middle East& Africa. Regionally, Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region owing to the rising demand from personal care and home care products. Polymeric Surfactant is growing at a significant rate and ongoing enhanced oil recovery projects in India and China are expected to drive the market in Asia Pacific region.Request a Sample Report @Market Overview:Polymeric Surfactants are used in a large variety of applications such as dispersants, wetting agents, foam boosters, emulsifiers, and others. Moreover, major application of polymeric surfactant includes preparation of oil in water (O/W) and water in oil (W/O) emulsions as well as solid liquid dispersion. They are used in various end-use industries such as oil & gas, agrochemicals, paints & coatings, pharmaceuticals, and others. Moreover, due to the capability of formation of biodegradable nanoparticles, they have wide application in pharmaceutical industry.On the basis of geography, Asia Pacific region is expected to witness high growth rate as compared to developed regions such as North America and Europe. Improvement in oil recovery with the use of polymeric surfactant in enhanced oil recovery process is expected to propel the growth of market in Asia Pacific region. Huge investment in the ongoing R&D projects by the manufacturers and strong acceptance within the end use industries is set to positively influence polymeric surfactants demand.Market Segmentation:Polymeric Surfactant is segmented on the basis of type, configuration, application and end-use. On the basis of type, the market is bifurcated into synthetic and natural. Natural polymeric surfactants are further divided into two types such as globular and fibrilar. Whereas, synthetic surfactants are categorized into homopolymers and block polymers. Key homopolymers include polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), modified polysaccharides and one of the major block polymer is synperonics. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and Blactoglobulin (BLG) comes under natural polymers. In order to prevent flocculation and crystal growth of nanocrystalline particle, polymeric surfactants are widely used in pharmaceutical applications. They produce a viscoelastic film during the emulsification process, thus making it suitable for use in cosmetic industry. It further plays a vital role in the formulation of paints & coatings and is also used as a stabilizing dispersion. In agrochemical industry, it is extensively utilized for formulation of varied agrochemicals including suspension concentrates (SCs), emulsion concentrate (EWs), suspoemulsion (mixture of suspension and emulsion), and oil based formulations. Naturally occurring polymeric surfactants like proteins and gums are widely used as emulsifiers for various food products as well as beverages.Browse Full Report Details @Regional Analysis:Asia Pacific emerged as the leading regional market of Polymeric Surfactant due to its wide utilization in oil & gas sector. The rising investments in oil & gas sector coupled with strong growth in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) is driving regional market growth at a significant rate. Polymeric surfactants helps in improving EOR process by providing increase in water viscosity and decrease in interfacial tension, thus benefitting the overall process.North America and Europe regions are characterized by presence of upgraded technological environment, thus increasing the farm operations and reduced operational cost in agricultural industry. Also, the demand in the maximum utilization of arable land in producing crops to meet the requirement of growing population is rising day by day. These factors are anticipated to drive demand for Polymeric Surfactants in the Middle East & Africa regions.Competitive analysis:Key industry participants for Global Polymeric Surfactant include Kao Corporation (Japan), BASF SE (Germany) ,Huntsman International LLC (USA), Akzo Nobel N.V (Netherlands), Evonik Industries AG (Germany), Croda International Plc (UK), Stepan Company (USA), DAI-ICHI (Japan), Unitop Chemicals Pvt. Ltd (India), Dow Chemical Company (U.S.) and others.Key Points from Table of Contents:13. Company Profiles13.1 KAO Corporation13.1.1 Company Overview13.1.2 Product/Business Segment Overview13.1.3 Financial Updates13.1.4 Key Developments13.2 BASF SE13.2.1 Company Overview13.2.2 Product/Business Segment Overview13.2.3 Financial Updates13.2.4 Key Developments13.3 Huntsman International LLC13.3.1 Company Overview13.3.2 Product/Business Segment Overview13.3.3 Financial Updates13.3.4 Key Developments13.4 Akzo Nobel N.V13.4.1 Company Overview13.4.2 Product/Business Segment Overview13.4.3 Financial Updates13.4.4 Key Developments13.5 Evonik Industries AG13.5.1 Company Overview13.5.2 Product/Business Segment Overview13.5.3 Financial Updates13.5.4 Key DevelopmentsMake an Enquiry before buying @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 Components, 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.Contact:Market Research Future+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Terephthalic Aldehyde Market Share, Opportunity, Segment and Key Trends 2017 - 2024. https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1868 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/terephthalic-aldehyde-market https://www.gminsights.com/request-toc/upcoming/1868 Terephthalic Aldehyde Market size is anticipating considerable growth in forecast time period. The product is whitish crystal compound manufactured by utilizing xylene in the presence of bismuth and tungsten. It is basic chemical used as an intermediary in various applications that include plastic, dyes and pharmaceuticals. Being a basic component in various applications demand for the substance has successively boosted. Plastic, dyes and pharmaceuticals are one of the fastest growing industries of economy, influencing product penetration worldwide.Plastic industry will register CAGR of over 6% in next five years. Being a major component in plastic manufacturing, compound demand will propel in near future. Its excellence in water and moisture resistance has fueled its usage in soft drink bottles. Global carbonated drinks is expected to witness CAGR over 2% in terms of volume and revenue in the next seven years. Up surge in these industries will boost terephthalic aldehyde market.Make an Inquiry before buying @The component is extensively consumed in dye industry as a mixing agent in its manufacturing. It gives long lasting color to the products and can be used for changing color of component. Dyes are consumed globally as an intermediary in manufacturing of textiles, inks, tinting, construction and polymers. Upsurge in CAGR of dye industry over 4.5% is propelling its demand and inducing growth in terephthalic aldehyde market.Pharmaceutical industry will grow at over 10% in the forecast period. The component is highly used in medicine production. It is consumed for combatting viruses, bacteria, fungi and insects, up surge in medicinal industry is anticipated to boost terephthalic aldehyde market.Supply chain of terephthalic aldehyde market initiates from procuring raw material from various suppliers. Manufacturing of the component takes place in laboratory, it is a formulated by chemical reaction of various atoms and molecules. Post manufacturing, it is transported and distributed to various location for varied applications. Major end use of the substance are pharmaceuticals, dyes, pigments and plastic industries.Browse complete summary of this report @The U.S. is worlds most important pharmaceutical industry, contributing over 35% in global pharmaceutical industry. It hosts many top companies contributing in the industry on a global basis. The product is widely used in medicines for fighting bacteria, insects, virus and fungi. With rise in pharmaceutical industry terephthalic aldehyde market will surge in North America in near future.Plastic industry majorly contributes in economic welfare of Europe by enabling innovation, creating quality life for the natives and climate protection. Europe ranks second in global plastics material production and is one of the largest consumer of plastic based products. Rise in plastic demand will make the region a considerable contributor and will bolster terephthalic aldehyde market.Asia Pacific led by India is anticipating surge in dye and its intermediaries in the next 7 years by registering CAGR of over 4 %. Major user of the compound are Indian textiles dye, plastics, paper, printing ink and food products industries. Increasing demand in these industries will boost terephthalic aldehyde market.Request for an in-depth table of contents for this report @Regionally, Global Market Insights, Inc.s Terephthalic Aldehyde market research has the most in-depth, country focused estimates and forecasts for decision makers across the globe. An exhaustive list of company profiles for organizations active in the Terephthalic Aldehyde market supports the regional analysis and information offering a competitive outlook on the industry. For each segment analyzed in this research, whether it is by product, application, material or end-use, a regional overview with historical data and Terephthalic Aldehyde market forecast is provided to the reader. Such a cross-segmentation research analysis is also unique to reports by Global Market Insights, Inc.Key manufacturers in the market are Jinan Haohua, Chemindustry, Haihang Industry, Nebula Chemicals, Fond Chemicals, Struchem co. Ltd., Conier Chem and Pharma Limited, Suzhou Health Chemicals, Angene International Limited and Rosewachem co. Ltd. Companies are emphasizing on product research and development and to supply the product globally. Other focus it is to minimize its side effects on human health by improving its chemical formulation. Jinan Haohua expanded its business through research and development, manufacturing chemicals, pharmaceuticals and intermediaries. Aim of the company is to make the product available worldwide and establish long term and stable relationship with the customers.About Global Market InsightsGlobal Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnologyContact UsArun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1 888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.com Electronic Toll Collection Market- Trends, Price, Share and Growth Rate from 2017 to 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=2417 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=2417 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=2417 Global Electronic Toll Collection Market: OverviewElectronic toll collection (TEC) systems are devices that enable the central management of toll operations via a single integrated solution. Eliminating delay on highways and roadways, the system ensures that toll payment is made electronically in a hassle-free manner.The global electronic toll collection system market can be segmented by application, region, product type, and technology. By product type, the global market for electronic toll collection can be segmented into antennae, treadles, transponders, weigh-in-motion devices, film storage devices, cameras, communication systems, and scanning devices. By technology, the market can be categorized into global positioning system (GPS), dedicated short range communications (DSRC), radio-frequency identification, and global navigation satellite system (GNSS).Request Sample Copy of the Report@Global Electronic Toll Collection Market: Key TrendsAs these systems eliminate manual operations by toll receivers and payers, the demand for electronic toll collection is likely to witness an upsurge. Cashless transactions offered by electronic toll collection systems do not only save travel time, but also minimizes traffic congestion near toll collection booths across roads and highways. Electronic toll collection systems offer cost-efficient solutions that are faster too. The need for multiple toll plazas is ruled out owing to the installation of electronic toll collection systems, saving additional costs. However, high dependence on government funding and high installation costs of these devices might restrain the growth of the market.Global Electronic Toll Collection Market: Market PotentialA number of emerging economies are increasingly addressing the need to adopt time and cost efficient electronic toll collection systems throughout the major cities. For instance, in India, the National Payments Corporation of India has been encouraging several highways to install electronic toll collection systems with a view to increase digital payments across the country, supporting the cashless economy initiative of the government.Request TOC of the Report @Nearly 14-16% of the toll collection in the country has been converted into electronic mediums, with the transaction number rising up to 7 million per month, reported the National Electronic Toll Collection in April 2017. The availability of advanced, easy, and convenient digital platforms for payment such as BharatQR and Samsung Pay has eliminated the waiting time required for card swipes.Similarly, in April 2017, the Transport Minister of Vietnam ordered swift installations of electronic toll collection equipment across the major highways of the country. Malaysia is another nation which has been promoting the adoption of electronic toll collection systems via its PLUS highways that offer cashless, fully electronic payments. Features such as Touch n Go Card, PlusMiles Card, and SmartTag have enabled smooth transactions, ensuring that 600 vehicles can pass through a TnG lane per hour, compared to 180 vehicles per hour that previously paid manually.Global Electronic Toll Collection Market: Regional OutlookGeographically, the global market for electronic toll collection market can be segmented into Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa. North America is expected to advance at a rapid pace due to the growing demand for safe, efficient, and secure toll collection infrastructure. The growing demand for electronic toll collection systems in Asia Pacific can be attributed to favorable government policies, growing investments in infrastructural development, and increasing adoption of automation across several regions. Singapore, India, Malaysia, China, and Thailand are expected to represent a large slice of revenue of the overall market.Get Discount @Global Electronic Toll Collection Market: Competitive AnalysisCubic Transportation Systems, Inc., 3M, EFKON AG, Kapsch TrafficCom, Xerox Corporation, Q-Free, Toll Collect GmbH, TransCore, Far Eastern Electronic Toll Collection Co., Ltd., Transurban Limited, VaaaN, Raytheon Company, and Schneider Electric SE are some of the leading companies operating in the global electronic toll collection market.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Concrete Fiber Market is expected to rise notably during the next few years Concrete Fiber Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2085 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/concrete-fiber-market-2085 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/2085 Market Synopsis of Concrete Fiber Market.Market Scenario:Concrete Fibers are placed in such a way that construction base becomes stable and stiff. Concrete Fiber is extensively used in exterior and interior parts of commercial, residential, and industrial construction and building and widely deployed in highways, roads, bridges, and pavements in the transportation industry. The key role of Concrete Fiber is to prevent cracking caused by plastic or drying shrinkage. The material has short and long Fibers uniformly distributed that help seal micro and macro cracks in concretes.Increasing use of basalt Fiber as a strengthening material for concrete reinforcement and fueling the market growth. Moreover, increasing demand of synthetic concrete Fiber across various end-use industries such as transport infrastructure, building & construction, and mining is driving the Global Concrete Fiber Market. However, capital-intensive R&D, lack of technical knowledge and high operating cost are some of the factors affecting market growth.Request a Sample Report @Key Players:The major player operating of Global Concrete Fiber Market are Bekaert SA, Cemex, ABC Polymer Industries, Sika AG, Propex Operating Company, LLC., The Euclid Chemical Company, Fibercon International Inc., Nycon Corporation, and BASF SE.Market Highlights:The global market of concrete fiber is growing rapidly. Focus towards construction, and infrastructural development makes concrete fiber popular. The rise in urbanization and improving construction industry is the major driving factor for the market. Wide range of industry usage of concrete fiber such as road construction, mining application, industrial and others also helps to boost the Concrete Fiber Market. Moreover, Government also implements different schemes to develop amusement parks, reading halls, libraries and swimming pools for the citizens. Government schemes and policies are expected to further fuel growth of construction industry. Overall demand for Concrete Fiber is expected to rise notably during the next few years.The report has analyzed the market based on the two segments: type, and application in the regions of North America, Europe, A.PAC and rest of the world. On the basis of type it includes synthetic fiber, steel fibers, glass fibers and others. Steel concrete fiber type segment holding the largest market share. Excellent tensile & flexural strength, shock resistance and high durability are driving the market of steel concrete. Moreover, On the basis of application it includes construction, industrial, road industry and other. The transport infrastructure is the largest end-use industry segment due to the increasing demand of Concrete Fibers in the road industry. In transport industry Concrete Fibers are used to manufacture roads, highways, bridges, railways, and ports & airports. The Global Concrete Fiber Market is expected to cross USD XX Billion at the end of the forecasted period and is expected to grow at CAGR of approximately XX from 2016 to 2022.Browse Full Report Details @Regional Analysis:Asia pacific is estimated to account for the largest share. Countries such as China, India, Japan and others witnessing an increase in the demand for Concrete Fiber. China leads the Concrete Fiber Market. Rise in construction activities due to an increase in population has aided China and other developing economies. Moreover, major global manufacturers are focusing on setting up distribution networks and R&D centers in this region. This plays an important role for the growth of the market. Whereas, North America is one of the key Concrete Fiber Markets. Product innovation in terms of quality and application development are driving the market of Concrete Fiber.Key Points from Table of Contents:7 Competitive Analysis7.1 Market Share Analysis7.2 Company Profiles7.2.1 Bekaert Sa7.2.2 Cemex7.2.3 Abc Polymer Industries7.2.4 Sika Ag7.2.5 Propex Operating Company7.2.6 The Euclid Chemical Company7.2.7 Fibercon International Inc.7.2.8 Nycon Corporation7.2.9 Basf Se7.2.10 OthersMake an Enquiry before buying @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 Components, 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.Contact:Market Research Future+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Physician Office Laboratory (POL) Market- Trends, Price, Share and Growth Rate from 2017 to 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=102 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=102 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=102 Global Physician Office Laboratory (POL) Market: SnapshotThe global market for physician office laboratory (POL) has been expanding substantially over the last few years. Supported by the technological advancements, the market is likely to remain proliferating over the next few years. POL testing has its base in developed regions as emerging economies still rely on hospital infrastructure for the diagnosis of acute and chronic medical conditions. Developing regions, however, has been demonstrating a significant potential for decentralized testing, thanks to the rising support from nongovernmental organizations and the increasing number of public health programs, intended towards spreading awareness for high-burden diseases such as hepatitis, acquired immuno deficiency syndrome (AIDS), diabetes, and tuberculosis (TB).As of now, the substandard care present at primary care facilities and community health organizations in most of the emerging countries lead a number of patients to hospitals. However, the rise in the disposable income of people in these nations have encouraged leading healthcare providers to invest heavily in western style physician practices, leading to the installation of a large pool of physician office laboratories and clinics, especially in India and China.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Since POL testing is not prevalent globally, as its counterparts (hospital laboratories, commercial or private reference labs, and hospital POCT), its future growth is seemingly uneven. Also active restriction on specified services from physicians or healthcare professionals over the primary care visits in some countries may also reflect negatively on the growth of this market in the near future.Global Physician Office Laboratory (POL) Market: OverviewClinical and hospital laboratories presently account for a massive chunk of the total number of diagnostic, monitoring or screening tests undertaken across the globe. However, a constantly rising number of physicians and physician groups are preferring to undertake part or entire volumes of lab testing in-house as an excellent way of improving patient care and boosting their operative incomes. Such in-house lab practices are called physician office laboratory (POL). The term is diverse and covers physicians practices as small as 2 to 5 physicians to large practitioners with 200 or more physicians that operate labs similar to laboratories in small hospitals.In-house testing practices facilitate physicians to become self-reliant and obtain results in a much faster manner than possible in outsourced lab tests. POLs also reduce the chances of loss or deterioration of test samples, enhancing the confidence regarding the accuracy of results. Broadly, POL refers to tests performed in: physicians office, conducted at the same time of consultation or with other healthcare professional, wherein results are mostly provided during the medical visit itself, and are used for monitoring, screening or diagnosis purposes.Request TOC of the Report @This report on the global physician office laboratory market presents a thorough overview of the present growth dynamics of the market and its key segments. Several insightful projections regarding the growth trajectory of the market over the period between 2017 and 2025 are also included in the report. The report also includes a detailed analysis of factors such as growth drivers, restraints, regulatory scenario, competitive landscape, and trends and opportunities, expected to have a notable influence on the growth prospects of the market over the said period.Global Physician Office Laboratory (POL) Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe global POL market is chiefly driven by the vast advancements observed in the field of testing technologies and supporting instrument and equipment in the past few years. The emergence and easy availability of easy to use microelectronic and microfluidic instruments that offer excellent accuracy and control is making POL feasible for smaller offices and is also enabling some physicians to perform tests for other doctors.The demand for such in-house laboratories is also significantly rising globally owing to the rising prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases and associated public health issues. However, the cost of meeting compliance requirements for local, state, and federal regulations, especially in developed economies, may hamper the markets growth to some extent.Get Discount @Global Physician Office Laboratory (POL) Market: Geographical and Competitive DynamicsOn the basis of geography, the global physician office laboratory market is segmented into Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, and Rest of the World (RoW). Of these, North America and Europe are presently the leading contributors to the revenue of the global physician office laboratory market. In the North America, the number of POLs increased at a phenomenal rate from nearly 95,000 in 2000 to 111,000 in 2010. The number of POLs has also significantly in Europe over the said period. Across both the regions, the constantly rising number of POL tests approved by the respective healthcare authorities will help drive the POL market in the next few years as well.However, the POL market is expected to witness the most lucrative growth market across emerging economies in Asia Pacific in the next few years. Several factors, including the vast rise in prevalence of infectious diseases, the rising population of elderly, and a significant rise in focus on quality health care are expected to fuel the growth of the Asia Pacific POL market in the next few years.Some of the most influential companies in the global physician office laboratory market are Accriva Diagnostics, Akers Biosciences, Axis-Shield, Chembio Diagnostic Systems, Boule Diagnostics, Alfa Wassermann Diagnostic Technologies, Diazyme Laboratories, Polymer Technology Systems (CHEK Diagnostics), Carolina Liquid Chemistries Corp., 3D Medical Diagnostics, Magellan Diagnostics, Biomerica, Inc., Accumetrics, Vital Diagnostics, and Nanosphere, Inc.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Core HR Software Market- Trends, Price, Share and Growth Rate from 2017 to 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=2465 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=2465 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=2465 Global Core HR Software Market: OverviewAlso known as human resource (HR) information systems (HRIS), core HR software consist of a central record system that can store employee data such as benefits and payroll information. HR managers engage such software to report key trends of their organization and track employee records. Without interrupting the workflow of HR department, employees can update their corporate information with self-service options of core HR software. In order to improve their value across various HR functions, companies adopting the software could integrate them with third-party HR applications and incorporate them in integrated HR management suite.Global Core HR Software Market: Key TrendsThe world core HR software market is prognosticated to receive a strong impetus from numerous factors such as increasing adoption of automation for executing HR processes and furtherance in mobile and cloud deployment. Participants wanting to establish their position in the world core HR software market could find lucrative opportunities from several verticals boosting growth, such as healthcare, consumer goods and retail, energy and utilities, manufacturing, and government. Out of all these verticals and more, the government vertical is anticipated to secure a larger market size during the course of the forecast period.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Vendors offering a single point of contact and range of services, including on-premise deployment or deployment on the cloud, for companies to perform different business activities are expected to operate on the greener pastures of the world core HR software market. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) could provide significant opportunities for growth in the world core HR software market on account of their augmenting investments in business software and need to adopt quick and efficient strategies for securing business growth. Vendors looking to increase demand in the world core HR software market are predicted to capitalize on the requirement of SMEs to ease resource crunch and improve cost optimization.Global Core HR Software Market: Market PotentialApproximately 23,000 employees at Life Care Services will be using the Oracle HCM Cloud human resource management software in a couple of phases, i.e. November 2017 and January 2018. A highlight global feature of Oracle HCM Cloud assists HR departments to administer employee payroll in several countries. However, the software also includes other vital core HR functions. Life Care Services expects to enhance its data and scale integrity by integrating functions presently managed by a set of diverse HR products. The company thinks the move to replace its Oracle on-premises software and other bolt-on systems will prove to be a game changer for keeping ahead of competitors in the industry.Request TOC of the Report @Global Core HR Software Market: Regional OutlookNorth America is prophesied to win the race of achieving a higher share in the international core HR software market during the forecast period. The dominance of the North America core HR software market could be attributed to a telling adoption of cloud platforms, smartphones, and newer technologies. Most emerging players making a mark in the core HR software market for North America are envisaged to achieve success by meeting the requirements of HR professionals by offering flexible, customized, and differentiated products. Other regions that could be important for the growth of the international core HR software market are Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa.Get Discount @Global Core HR Software Market: Competitive LandscapeWith a view to extend their offerings in the worldwide core HR software market, industry players are envisioned to take to inorganic and organic growth strategies that include acquisitions and mergers, collaborations and partnerships, and new product launches. Some of the major companies projected to impact the worldwide core HR software market could be IBM Corporation, EmployWise, CoreHR, Ceridian HCM, Inc., and ADP.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Telecommunications: Central African Republic Market 2017-By Facilitate Decision Making on the Basis of Historic and Forecasts Data https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/608879-central-african-republic-improved-political-stability-cause-for-guarded-optimism https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/608879-central-african-republic-improved-political-stability-cause-for-guarded-optimism www.linkedin.com/company/4828928 https://twitter.com/WiseGuyReports https://www.facebook.com/Wiseguyreports-1009007869213183/?fref=ts SummaryThe telecommunications market in CAR generated $48.7m in service revenue in 2015 and will grow at a CAGR of 10.1% during 2016-2021. Mobile data and fixed Internet will be the fastest-growing segments over the forecast period. The volatile political and security situation will dampen growth in the short term. However, long-term plans by operators to expand mobile network coverage and the expected introduction of 3G services by additional operators will drive long-term growth in the telecom market.GET SAMPLE REPORT @Key Findings The overall telecom service revenue in CAR declined 0.9% year-over-year to $44.3m in 2016. From 2016 to 2021, the telecommunications market in CAR will see service revenue CAGR of 10.1%, driven by mobile voice revenues. Mobile revenue will account for a greater proportion of total telecommunications revenue in 2021. The CAR telecom market will be dominated by Orange as the leading mobile and fixed data operator followed by Telecom.SynopsisCentral African Republic: Improved Political Stability Cause for Guarded Optimism provides an executive-level overview of the telecommunications market in CAR today, with detailed forecasts of key indicators up to 2020. It delivers deep quantitative and qualitative insight into CAR telecom market, analyzing key trends, evaluating near-term opportunities and assessing risk factors, based on proprietary data from Pyramid Researchs databases.The Country Intelligence Report provides in-depth analysis of the following: Regional context: Telecom market size and trends in CAR compared with other countries in AME region Economic, demographic and political context in CAR The regulatory environment and trends: a review of the regulatory setting and agenda for the next 18-24 months as well as relevant developments pertaining to spectrum licensing, national broadband plans, number portability and more A demand profile: analysis as well as historical figures and forecasts of service revenue from the fixed telephony, fixed Internet, mobile voice and mobile data Service evolution: a look at changes in the breakdown of overall revenue between the fixed and mobile sectors and between voice, data and video from 2013 to 2020 The competitive landscape: an examination of key trends in competition and in the performance, revenue market shares and expected moves of service providers over the next 18-24 months In-depth sector analysis of fixed telephony, broadband, mobile voice and mobile data services: a quantitative analysis of service adoption trends by network technology and by operator, as well as of average revenue per line/subscription and service revenue through the end of the forecast period Main opportunities: this section details the near-term opportunities for operators, vendors and investors in CARs telecommunications marketReasons to Buy Gain in-depth analysis of current strategies and future trends of the telecommunications market in CAR, service providers and key opportunities in a concise format, to build proactive and profitable growth strategies Understand the factors behind ongoing and upcoming trends in CARs mobile communications, fixed telephony and broadband markets, including the evolution of service provider market shares, to align product offerings and strategies to meet customers demand Leverage the graphical information (more than 20 charts and tables in the report based on the Pyramid Research forecast products), to gain an overview of the telecom market in CAR Analysis of key telecom players in the markets and major business strategies being adopted by them, to identify the opportunities to improve the market share Explore novel opportunities to align your product strategies and offerings to meet the requirements and succeed in the challenging telecommunications market in CARTable of Content: Key PointsExecutive summaryMarket and competitor overviewRegional contextEconomic, demographic and political contextRegulatory environmentDemand profileService evolutionCompetitive landscapeMajor market playersSegment analysisMobile servicesFixed servicesIdentifying opportunitiesOverall market opportunitiesContinuedACCESS 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.WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Baby Drinks Market Forecast Research Reports Offers Key Insights https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/5558 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/europe-baby-drinks-market.html https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com According to a recent market research report published by Transparency Market Research, the Europe baby drinks market is estimated to expand at a CAGR of 3.50% during the period between 2015 and 2021. The report, titled Baby Drinks Market - Europe Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2015 - 2021, projects the baby drinks market in Europe to reach a valuation of US$20.4 bn by the end of 2021. The overall market was worth US$15.9 bn in 2014.Download ToC:Baby drinks include infant formula and baby juices. While infant formula is prepared from dried milk, baby juices are made up of fruit juices especially for babies up to three years of age. Infant formula contains all the vital nutrients required for a babys growth and complements breast milk. Water is added to the dry milk for rehydration purpose.The report states that the rise in the number of working mothers has boosted the demand for baby drinks in Europe. Recommendations from doctors regarding the usage of infant formula as a complementary food for babies have further augmented the growth of the Europe baby drinks market. However, the high sugar content in the baby drinks might have adverse effect on babys health, which is a key factor hampering the demand for baby drinks.Browse Full Report at:In terms of product types, the report segments the Europe baby drinks market into infant formula and baby juice. The baby juice segment has been further divided into ready-to-drink baby juice and concentrated baby juice. In 2014, the infant formula segment dominated the overall market in terms of revenue and demand. During the forecast horizon, the segment is expected to sustain its leading position in the market owing to recommendations by pediatricians.Infant formula is considered as the most ideal alternative for breast milk and has a high nutritional value. The baby juice segment has been growing majorly due to the increased demand for ready-to-drink baby juices. However, the baby juice segment is facing a couple of restraints such as weaker distribution channels. The ready-to-drink baby juices contain a high amount of sugar, which makes them a less preferred choice among parents.The report studies the Europe baby drinks market across the U.K., Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Sweden, and Rest of the Europe. In terms of revenue, France led the overall market in 2014. Busy lifestyle of parents, favorable government policies, and growing acceptance of infant formula are the primary factors driving the growth of the market in France. During the forecast period, the country is anticipated to continue as the leading market for baby drinks. In 2014, France held 18.50% of the overall market while the U.K. accounted for 16.30% of the market. The U.K. and Spain are expected to contribute significantly towards the growth of the Europe baby drinks market in the coming years.Describing the competitive landscape, the report profiles some of the key players in the Europe baby drinks market such as H.J. Heinz Company, Nestle S.A., Danone, Mead Johnson Nutrition Company, and HiPP GmbH & Co. Vertrieb KG. The report assesses the performance of the key players on the basis of attributes such as product portfolio, financial status, business strategies, and recent developments. The report further provides information regarding market share held by the players and distribution channels.Europe Baby Drinks Market has been segmented as:Europe Baby Drinks Market, by ProductInfant formulaBaby juiceConcentrated baby juiceReady-to-drink baby juiceEurope Baby Drinks Market, by CountrySpainGermanyFranceItalyK.SwedenRest of EuropeAbout 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: Casino Management Systems Market Estimated to Rise Profitably during 2017 to 2025 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=25163 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=25163 Casino management systems include hardware and software that aims at tracking players, security and surveillance, cash and accounting, analyzingbehavior or combination of all of these.Casino industry heavily relies on customer retention to generate revenues. Quality of services offered and service level plays an important role in retaining consumers.A sample of this report is available upon request @Casino industry is mainly supported by IT solution and services. In addition, IT solution and services enable the casinos to streamline their operations and activities which in turn aims at enhancing the customer retention rate in the Casino Management Systems market.Management tools are one of the most important offerings from all IT vendors which enable the casinos to handle and manage day to day operations thereby enhancing customer service level which in turn is helping to retain customer retention rate.The tools includes software that helps to track various activities of employees and customers. In addition,it also aims at maintaining databases consisting of critical information that is required for future references.Hence, Casino Management Systems market deals with different tools and analytical software which enable the casinos to understand employee and customer behavior by analyzing the probabilities of win or lose in casino games.Recent trend shows that the sole purpose of casino visitors are not only gambling but to enjoy various services and ambience associated with gambling.Casino visitors have different expectations and hence serving the various customers is not an easy task. Hence, casino management systems are one stop solution in terms of managing various assets and to maintain the service level and information flow as per expectation.Casino management systems with the help of advanced technology provides an easy way out for various security and solution services. These systems aims at monitoring the activities taking place on floor thereby providing real-time reports which in turn helps in decision making.This in turn is driving the Casino Management Systems Market.Therefore, the Casino Management Systems market is predicted to witness a steady growth during the projection period from 2017 to 2025.Global Casino Management Systems market has been segmented on the basis of type of end users, analytics and security and surveillance. On the basis of type of end users, global Casino Management Systems market has been segmented intosmall, medium and large casinos. Additionally, global Casino Management Systems market has been separated on the basis of analytics which includes predictive analytics and video analytics. In terms of security and surveillance, the market is segmented into video surveillance and access control.The Casino Management Systems market is mainly driven by the increase in number of casinos due to higher gambling acceptance among people and growing worldwide income.Hence increase in demand of casinos is driving the market globally.In addition, growth in the gaming industry followed by digitization and escalation of international tourism are other factors driving the global Casino Management Systems market.However, the gambling industry is mainly controlled by stringent rules and regulations which fail to find acceptance in many countries.This is restraining the growth of global Casino Management Systems market.In addition, growth in number of online casinos is also restraining the growth of this market as customers can log in from home and play without going to the casinos. Growing demand of casinos in emerging markets which includes Japan and Macau among others serves as opportunity for this market. In addition, increase in demand of system integrators in casino management systems also act as an opportunity factor in the growth of global Casino Management Systems market.Geographically, global Casino Management Systems market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle-East and Africa (MEA) and Latin America. In 2016, North America held the largest share of the Casino Management Systems market due to increased disposable income among consumers followed by freely accepted society. Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing market for Casino Management Systems market owing to the rise in revenue and increase in demand of global tourism. All these factors are expected to increase the demand of Casino Management Systems market during the forecast period from 2017- 2025.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @The majorplayers operating in the global Casino Management Systems market includes Belly Technologies(The U.S),Honeywell (The U.S), Agilysys (The U.S),International Game Technology (The U.S), Lodging And Gaming Systems (Lgs) (The U.S),Wavestore (U.K),Hconn (The U.S), Advansys (U.K),Next Level Security Systems (Nlss)(The U.S) and Bluberi Gaming Technologies (Canada) among others.About USTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact Us-U.S. OFFICE:State Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207 Beverage Refrigeration Market Trends 2017, Growth Forecast 2024 https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/616509/?utm_source=OP-SL https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/616509/?utm_source=PAID-SL https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/2017-top-5-gas-spring-players-in-north-america-europe-asia-pacific-south-america-middle-east-and-africa/?utm_source=RR-SL https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/category/news-releases/ MaketStudyReport.com adds a New Beverage Refrigeration Market Research Report for the period of 2017 - 2024 that shows the growth of the market is rising at 2024.Beverage Refrigeration Market is estimated to exceed USD 4.5 billion by 2024; according to a new research reportEscalating demand for refrigerators to store and serve drinks for social gathering and private events, is a key factor driving beverage refrigeration market growth. Ongoing technological advances to reduce the overall cooling time and consumer demand for distinctive features such as bottom freezer drawer and powerful filtered water will boost beverage refrigeration market .Increasing consumer preference for packaged drinks which are convenient to consume at home will support the product demand. According to recent statistics, the global consumption of packaged drinks was estimated more than 1.05 trillion liters in 2016 and Chinese consumption amounted to about 178.6 billion liters.Manufacturers are anticipated to invest in new product development to comply with new energy standards implemented by the regulatory bodies. Further, increasing penetration of refrigerators that employ specific features such as modifiable shelves to accommodate bottles and cans will boost product sales.Get sample Copy of this report:The above information is provided on a regional and country basis for the following: North America: U.S, Canada. Europe: Germany, UK, France, Italy, Belgium, Poland, Russia. Asia Pacific: China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Philippines, Thailand MEA: Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, South Africa. Latin America (LATAM): Brazil, Mexico, Argentina.Beverage Refrigeration Market by Product:Under counter beverage refrigeratorGliding doorSwing DoorCountertop beverage refrigerator Gliding door Swing doorStorage beverage refrigerator Milk coolersGet Discount on this Report:Under counter beverage refrigerator was valued at over USD 1 billion in 2016. Product offering such as stainless-steel body or custom panel-ready fronts are stimulating the demand. In addition, better shelving and temperature control will support segment penetration over the forecast period.Rising demand to preserve milk in dairy shops will propel coolers demand over the projected timeframe. Diary companies are upgrading their existing capacities, and setting up cold storages along with the processing plant. This will generate the overall revenue over the forecast period.Storage beverage refrigeration estimated to register over 4% CAGR in terms of volume by 2024. Increasing demand of premium refrigerators with aesthetic features in high end restaurants, convenience stores and professional kitchens will propel industry .North America beverage refrigeration market is anticipated to surpass USD 1 billion by 2024. This can be credited to escalating consumption of refreshment drinks and technological improvements in refrigeration systems. In addition, government encouraging utilization of energy-efficient and eco-friendly technologies in refrigerators.Asia Pacific market holds over 20% of overall industry share in 2016. According to industry estimates, the region is anticipated to account for more than two-thirds of the global beverages consumption by 2020. The region accounts for 60% of the world population and increasing consumption will provide lucrative opportunities for manufacturers.Global beverage refrigeration market is fragmented in nature. Key industry players are Electrolux, Daikin Industries, Avanti, Dover Corporation, KingsBottle, Whirlpool Corporation, Edgestar, Haier, Ford and General Electrics. Other Industry participants are Koolatron, Coca-Cola, Danfoss, Gamko, Liebherr, Marvel, Kegco, Danby, Johnson Controls, U-line, HABCO, Allavino, Kenmore, Marvel, United Technologies Corporation and Illinois Tool Works.Technological advancement is expected to positively influence the industry . Mergers & acquisition is anticipated to be key strategy to widen their geographical presence and improve their profitability.Related Report:2017 Top 5 Gas Spring Players in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and AfricaThe Global Gas Spring market size will be XX million (USD) in 2022, from the XX million (USD) in 2016, with a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of XX% from between 2016 and 2022.Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Market Study ReportThe Green Suite #4594,Dover, DE 19901United StatesPhone: 1-201-355-0868US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:News: Cloud Billing Market Estimated to Rise Profitably during 2017 to 2025 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=25172 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=25172 Cloud billing involves the process of generating bills using a set of defined billing policies from the resource data. A cloud billing service module is used for a service oriented architecture that covers functional requirements including quote service, conversion policies, user identification, and payment schemes along with the non-functional ones such as security, standards, fault tolerance, and scalability among others. Billing solutions are generated from the cloud that provides a solution supporting multi-tenancy where vendors run it in a public cloud allowing multiple operators to access it.A sample of this report is available upon request @This process does not provide any customization along with the compute resources being paid on the basis of usage or on monthly basis rather than a long-term contract. The global cloud billing market has been segmented on the basis of type, provider, end use industries and geography. Based on type, the global market for cloud billing has been segmented into metered billing, provisioning, subscription billing and cloud service billing among others. On the basis of provider the market includes cloud service provider, managed service provider and telecom & communication service provider. Retail, manufacturing, education, telecommunication, healthcare and media form the different end use industries based on which the global market has been segmented.Global cloud billing market on the basis of geography has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East and Africa.It is the ability to issue invoices faster along with reduction of errors that form some of the major drivers for this market globally. Usage of cloud billing system enables reaching a client quickly along with reducing the chance of typo errors. Moreover, using this system helps in monitoring customer subscription that may be weekly, monthly or yearly. This process helps in tracking the whole payment system of customers along with sending timely reminders regarding the due payment further reducing chances of deferred payment. Usage of cloud billing system improves the overall record keeping making it faster to access along with the ability to access these information from anywhere without being physically present at the location.With all these drivers that has a positive impact on the growth of this market, there are certain challenges as well that has a negative impact on the implementation procedure of this technology. One such factor being the security related issues that may risk the customer related data to get hacked along with the chances of confidential data being used by third person posing challenges for this market. In addition to this, it is also the high costs along with the possible chances of downtime that form some other restraints to restrict the growth. Considering these drivers and restraints, it is the technological shift for faster information access that provides huge scope of opportunities for this market in the coming years.Geographically, North America formed one of the major regions contributing to the growth for this market. The rising implementation of cloud based technology along with better access to client demands has been some of the major reasons for the rising demand of this market. Asia Pacific formed another major region along with being one of the fastest growing region for this market globally. China, Japan and India among others are some of the major regions contributing to the growth. Technological shift towards easier access of data along with growth of cloud based technology have been certain major factors to have driven the market in this region.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Some of the key players that are operating in the global cloud billing market include Computer Sciences Corporation (The U.S.), International Business Machines Corporation (The U.S.), Amazon Web Services, Inc. (The U.S.), Aria Systems(The U.S.), NEC Corporation (Japan), Amdocs Inc. (Israel), Oracle Corporation (The U.S.), SAP SE (Germany), Cerilion Technologies Ltd. (The UK),CGI Group Inc. (Canada) and Zuora, Inc. (The U.S.) among others.About USTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact Us-U.S. OFFICE:State Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207 Internet of Everything Industry 2017 Upcomming Trends and Market Strategies Internet of Everything Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/177416-global-internet-of-everything-market-trends-forecast-2015-2020 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/177416-global-internet-of-everything-market-trends-forecast-2015-2020 WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Internet of Everything Industry 2017 Upcomming Trends and Market Strategies.The internet of everything (IoE) brings people, process, data and things together to form a networked connection more appropriate and beneficial. The market is in its starting stage and offers benefits such as enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making.Over the next few years, increase in internet usage is believed to be an essential factor driving IoE market growth. A strong demand across several entitieshigh speed processors, internet security and high network speed equipmenthas played a key role in creating a position in the market. Speed is expected to hamper IoE market growth as it is believed to be a main constraint in IoE environment due to the need of a high traffic data transfer. It represents multiple technology trends such as mobility, data analytics, social networks, and cloud computing.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comIncreased adoption of IoE by state, federal, and local governments, non-governmental organizations, healthcare organizations, utilities, educational institutions provide several opportunities for the IoE market growth in the upcoming years. Internet proliferation, focus on big data, government initiatives, innovation in manufacturing technology are the factors driving the global IoE market. Some of the key industry players include Cisco, Intel, Bosch, IBM, oracle and Ericson.The report provides an in-depth analysis of IoE market along with drivers and restraints as well as growth opportunities and best practices in the market. It also contains analysis and forecasted revenues, competitive landscape, company profiles and industry trends.Report Details @Table Of Contents Major Key Points1 Industry Overview1.1 Industry Trends1.2 Pest Analysis1.3 Value Chain1.4 Porter 5 (Five) Forces2 Report Outline2.1 Report Scope2.2 Report Summary2.3 Research Methodology2.4 Report Assumptions3 Market Snapshot3.1 Segmented Addressable Market (SAM)3.2 Related Markets3.2.1 Machine to Machine(M2M)3.2.2 Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT)4 Market Characteristics4.1 Evolution4.2 IoE Layers4.3 Market Segmentation4.4 Market Dynamics4.4.1 Drivers4.4.1.1 Growing Demand for Wearable Devices4.4.1.2 Cloud computing market4.4.1.3 Application World4.4.1.4 Big data Analytic4.4.2 Restraints/Barriers4.4.2.1 Privacy and Security-Complex System4.4.2.2 High data traffic by connected devices-hamper to IoE market4.4.2.3 Awareness uncertainty4.4.3 Opportunities & Focus Area4.4.3.1 India set to be emerging market for Internet of Everything4.4.3.2 Focus on SMEs4.4.4 DRO - Impact Analysis5 Trends and Roadmap5.1 Market Trends & Impact5.1.1.1 5G Technology5.1.1.2 Fog Computing Market5.2 Technology Roadmap6 Technologies: Market Size & Analysis6.1 Overview6.2 Infrastructure and Network Technologies6.2.1 Market size & Analysis6.2.2 Wi-Fi6.2.3 4G/LTE6.2.4 3G6.2.5 Bluetooth6.2.6 Z-wave6.2.7 ZigBee6.2.8 6LowPan6.2.9 Ethernet6.2.10 Power Line Communication (PLC)6.2.11 Satellite Technologies6.2.12 Modbus6.2.13 Others6.3 Applications Technologies6.3.1 Big Data Analytics6.3.2 Enterprise Energy Management6.3.3 Data Virtualizations6.3.4 Cloud Collaborations6.3.5 Others6.4 Vendor Profiles6.4.1 Cisco Systems, Inc.6.4.1.1 Overview6.4.1.2 Financial Health6.4.1.3 Business Units6.4.1.3.1 Overall6.4.1.3.2 Market Specific6.4.1.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.1.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.1.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.2 PTC Inc.6.4.2.1 Overview6.4.2.2 Financial Health6.4.2.3 Business Units6.4.2.3.1 Overall6.4.2.3.2 Market Specific6.4.2.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.2.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.2.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.3 Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.6.4.3.1 Overview6.4.3.2 Financial Health6.4.3.3 Business Units6.4.3.3.1 Overall6.4.3.3.2 Market Specific6.4.3.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.3.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.3.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.4 Amazon.com, Inc.6.4.4.1 Overview6.4.4.2 Financial Health6.4.4.3 Business Units6.4.4.3.1 Overall6.4.4.3.2 Market Specific6.4.4.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.4.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.4.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.5 SAP SE.6.4.5.1 Overview6.4.5.2 Financial Health6.4.5.3 Business Units6.4.5.3.1 Overall6.4.5.3.2 Market Specific6.4.5.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.5.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.5.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.6 Samsung Electronics Co Ltd6.4.6.1 Overview6.4.6.2 Financial Health6.4.6.3 Business Units6.4.6.3.1 Overall6.4.6.3.2 Market Specific6.4.6.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.6.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.6.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.7 General Electric Company6.4.7.1 Overview6.4.7.2 Financial Health6.4.7.3 Business Units6.4.7.3.1 Overall6.4.7.3.2 Market Specific6.4.7.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.7.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.7.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.8 Ericsson6.4.8.1 Overview6.4.8.2 Financial Health6.4.8.3 Business Units6.4.8.3.1 Overall6.4.8.3.2 Market Specific6.4.8.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.8.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.8.6 Business Strategy & Views6.4.9 Schneider Electric SE6.4.9.1 Overview6.4.9.2 Financial Health6.4.9.3 Business Units6.4.9.3.1 Overall6.4.9.3.2 Market Specific6.4.9.4 SWOT Analysis6.4.9.5 Key Business Priorities6.4.9.6 Business Strategy & Views7 Services: Market Size & Analysis7.1 Overview7.1.1 Market size & Analysis7.2 System Integration Services7.3 Managed Services7.4 Strategy and Consulting Services7.5 Vendor Profiles7.5.1 Accenture PLc7.5.1.1 Overview7.5.1.2 Financial Health7.5.1.3 Business Units7.5.1.3.1 Overall7.5.1.3.2 Market Specific7.5.1.4 SWOT Analysis7.5.1.5 Key Business Priorities7.5.1.6 Business Strategy & Views7.5.2 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P7.5.2.1 Overview7.5.2.2 Financial Health7.5.2.3 Business Units7.5.2.3.1 Overall7.5.2.3.2 Market Specific7.5.2.4 SWOT Analysis7.5.2.5 Key Business Priorities7.5.2.6 Business Strategy & ViewsContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Potato Processing Global Market 2017: Key Players Lamb Weston Holdings, Mccain Foods Limited, Kraft Heinz Company, Aviko B.V, Idahoan Foods Potato Processing Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/1991502-global-potato-processing-sales-market-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/1991502-global-potato-processing-sales-market-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=1991502 Potato Processing Market 2017Wiseguyreports.Com adds Potato Processing Market Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities, Analysis of Top Key Players and Forecast to 2022 To Its Research Database.Report Details:This report provides in depth study of Potato Processing Market using SWOT analysis i.e. Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat to the organization. The Potato Processing Market report also provides an in-depth survey of key players in the market which is based on the various objectives of an organization such as profiling, the product outline, the quantity of production, required raw material, and the financial health of the organization.Global Potato Processing market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Potato Processing sales volume, Price (USD/MT), revenue (Million USD) and market share for each manufacturer/player;The top key players including ;Lamb Weston HoldingsMccain Foods LimitedThe Kraft Heinz CompanyAviko B.V.J.R. Simplot CompanyIdahoan FoodsFarm Frites International B.V.Agristo NVIntersnack Group GmbH & Co. KgLimagrain Cereales IngredientsThe Little Potato Company Ltd.J.R. Short Milling CompanyAgrana Beteiligungs-AGRequest a Sample Report @Geographically, this report split global into several key Regions, with sales (K MT), revenue (Million USD), market share and growth rate of Potato Processing for these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringUnited StatesChinaEuropeJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoFrozenChipsSnack PelletsDehydratedOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume, market share and growth rate of Potato Processing for each application, includingFoodserviceRetailIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Complete Report Details@Major Key Points in Table of Content:Global Potato Processing Sales Market Report 20171 Potato Processing Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Potato Processing1.2 Classification of Potato Processing by Product Category1.2.1 Global Potato Processing Market Size (Sales) Comparison by Type (2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Potato Processing Market Size (Sales) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Frozen1.2.4 Chips1.2.5 Snack Pellets1.2.6 Dehydrated1.3 Global Potato Processing Market by Application/End Users1.3.1 Global Potato Processing Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Foodservice1.3.3 Retail1.4 Global Potato Processing Market by Region1.4.1 Global Potato Processing Market Size (Value) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 United States Potato Processing Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 China Potato Processing Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 Europe Potato Processing Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Potato Processing Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Potato Processing Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 India Potato Processing Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value and Volume) of Potato Processing (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Potato Processing Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Potato Processing Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2022)..9 Global Potato Processing Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data9.1 Lamb Weston Holdings9.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.1.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.1.2.1 Product A9.1.2.2 Product B9.1.3 Lamb Weston Holdings Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.2 Mccain Foods Limited9.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.2.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.2.2.1 Product A9.2.2.2 Product B9.2.3 Mccain Foods Limited Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.3 The Kraft Heinz Company9.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.3.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.3.2.1 Product A9.3.2.2 Product B9.3.3 The Kraft Heinz Company Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.4 Aviko B.V.9.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.4.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.4.2.1 Product A9.4.2.2 Product B9.4.3 Aviko B.V. Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.5 J.R. Simplot Company9.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.5.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.5.2.1 Product A9.5.2.2 Product B9.5.3 J.R. Simplot Company Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.6 Idahoan Foods9.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.6.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.6.2.1 Product A9.6.2.2 Product B9.6.3 Idahoan Foods Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.7 Farm Frites International B.V.9.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.7.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.7.2.1 Product A9.7.2.2 Product B9.7.3 Farm Frites International B.V. Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.8 Agristo NV9.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.8.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.8.2.1 Product A9.8.2.2 Product B9.8.3 Agristo NV Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.8.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.9 Intersnack Group GmbH & Co. Kg9.9.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.9.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.9.2.1 Product A9.9.2.2 Product B9.9.3 Intersnack Group GmbH & Co. Kg Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.9.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.10 Limagrain Cereales Ingredients9.10.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.10.2 Potato Processing Product Category, Application and Specification9.10.2.1 Product A9.10.2.2 Product B9.10.3 Limagrain Cereales Ingredients Potato Processing Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.10.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinued.Buy now @Contact Us:NORAH TRENTPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Sales@Wiseguyreports.ComPh: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Technological Advancements to Influence Earthenware Market Growth 2016 - 2024 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=3692 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=3692 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Global Earthenware Market: OverviewEarthenware refer to a variety of articles made from ceramic materials and used for a wide ranging purposes including tableware, pottery, and decorative objects. Most of the amateur pottery and modern craft falls in the earthenware category. While porcelain has become one of the most preferred material for manufacturing these artifacts these days, earthenware represented a majority of pottery known to be made by the humankind from times ranging to thousands of years from now.Fossils and excavations show that earthenware have been made for the past more than 9,000 years across the globe. These continue to remain one of the most popular kinds of pottery till date. Some of the key varieties of earthenware to be used widely across a number of applications are tin-glazed pottery, creamware, yellowware, terracotta, victorian majolica, delftware, faience, raku, and ironstone ware.Earthenware is made by heating a mixture of clay between 1000 and 1150 degrees Celsius. The blend of materials used for manufacturing earthenware generally differs depending on the specific application or the region of manufacture. However, the key materials used are generally quartz, feldspar, china clay or kaolin, and ball clay.Request For Report Brochure@Global Earthenware Market: Scope of the ReportThis report on the global earthenware market presents a detailed overview of the present growth dynamics of the market and its segments and includes vast projections regarding the growth prospects of the market over the period between 2016 and 2024. The report includes a thorough analysis of factors expected to have a notable impact on the overall development of the market in the next few years, including drivers, restraints, opportunities, competitive landscape, and regulatory scenario.A detailed analysis of the competitive landscape of the global earthenware market is also presented in the report, wherein business profiles of some of the key vendors in the market are evaluated. Details such as recent technological advancements, product portfolios, participation in strategic mergers and acquisitions, finances, and growth opportunities for these companies are also included in the report.Global Earthenware Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe global earthenware market is chiefly driven by generic home decoration trends. As such, growth opportunities are vast in regional markets where the consumer is willing to pay for innovative and exceptional design efforts. Although earthenware are highly appreciated for their brilliant looks, their market could be hampered due to the easy availability of cheap alternatives made from polymers.Of the key regional markets for earthenware, Asia Pacific represents one of the key producers as well as consumers of high-class earthenware. Countries such as India, China, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia are amongst some of the primary consumers of a variety of earthenware owing to the rising demand for home decoration artifacts from the rising population of affluent middle class consumers in these countries. These countries are expected to remain the key markets for earthenware in the next few years as well, with an increasing number of regional and domestic vendors venturing in the field and making it increasingly competitive.Visit For TOC@Focus on the development of high-class logistics systems and world-class production processes, to guarantee the production and delivery of innovative and high-quality product varieties could help vendors gain an edge. Some of the key companies operating in the global earthenware market are CoorsTek, CeramTec, Ceradyne, Corning, Stryker, Kyocera, and Asahi Glass.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.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: All Terrain Cranes Market - Product, Application & Regional Segment Analysis with Major Key Players Forecast to 2022 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/744592-global-all-terrain-cranes-market-1 HTF MI recently added a new research study in its database that highlights the in-depth market analysis with future prospects of All Terrain Cranes market. The study covers significant data which makes the research document a handy resource for marketing managers, analysts, industry executives, consultants, sales and product managers, and other key people who are in need of ready-to-access and self analyzed study along with graphs and tables to help understand market trends, drivers and market challenges. Some of the key players mentioned in this research are Liebherr, Tadano, Manitowoc, XCMG, Terex, Zoomlion, Sany, Kobelco?Crane, Hitachi?Sumitomo, Furukawa, Sichuan Changjiang, Altec Industries, Action?Construction?Equipment, Elliott Equipment, Liugong, Bocker Maschinenwerke, Liaoning Fuwa, Manitex & Broderson.Get Access to sample pages @The research covers the current market size of the Global All Terrain Cranes market and its growth rates based on 5 year history data. It also covers various types of segmentation such as by geography [United States, EU, Japan, China, India & Southeast Asia], by product /end user type [HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact US :Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager)HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJNew Jersey USA 08837sales@htfmarketreport.com+1 (206) 317 1218 Dubai`s DIFC Enhances Its Appeal to Family Offices https://www.property-blog-dubai.com/single-post/Domiciliation-of-a-Family-Office-in-the-Dubai-International-Financial-Centre-DIFC www.property-blog-dubai.com Dubai`s International Financial Centre, inaugurated in 2004 and home to many of the world`s largest financial corporations, is increasingly evolving with respect to its offering to family offices looking for viable jurisdictions.Only recently, concerted efforts by the DIFC and the Ministry of Economy (Dubai) led to allow DIFC-based companies to apply for and be licensed to commence commercial activity onshore in Dubai, as well as to acquire and operate properties within Dubai.Effectively making the freezone of the DIFC semi-permeable, the move comes as a further step in the opening of the local economy to foreign direct investment. By establishing a presence within the DIFC jurisdiction, family offices and other investment vehicles are now able to tap into the local markets while at the same time remaining within the DIFC`s higly predictable common law jurisdiction.The DIFC freezone, which was awarded 10th. position within the world`s best financial centres (The Banker 2017 IFC rankings) in September 2017, is based on a comprehensive common law-based legal framework, providing family offices with a host of easements compared to fully regulated financial companies. Complemented by the DIFC`s Wills and Probate Registry as another vital building block, the DIFC provides family offices with a wide range of options with respect to legal structuring, management as well as succession of assets.A more detailed article covering the recent evolution of the DIFC with respect to its proposition to family offices and its implementing rules can be found here:The author`s blog property-blog-dubai.com covers subjects related to Dubai`s property market and its trends and influences from an institutional investor`s perspective.The author has been actively engaged in the Dubai property market since 2005 and advises institutional investors pertaining to their overall investment strategy, ongoing asset management as well as the initiation and execution of property transactions.Property-blog-dubai.comChristian AtzertBusiness Center 4, Floor 8Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade ZoneTel: 00971-56-7786475Web:Mail: author@property-blog-dubai.com North America to Attribute Largely to Subscriber Data Management Market Growth By 2025 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=25289 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=25289 Subscriber data management or SDM is the most difficult functions in telecommunication networks. The rising number of network technologies, arrival of 5G and advanced cloud architectures are fueling the demand of subscriber data management software.The SDM solution is expected to grow at a steady rate during the forecast period.A sample of this report is available upon request @It offers telecom operators with a consolidated view of data from diverse data bank. It also helps integrating unlike systems or applications by providing access to transactions, protocol translation, data transformation and data schema manipulation. This data and protocol association ability offers operators to produce a unified interface for all applications to access information from all data banks.In addition, increasing number of mobile devices and mobile users has further fueling the market of SDM and is expected a significant growth during the forecast period. Rising use of mobile devices is also increasing the need of mobile operator to synchronize this subscriber information with ease, which is fueling the growth of subscriber data management market. Moreover, rising need to reduce the operational expenditure (Opex) is further booming the market of SDM during the forecast period. However, the complexity in design of subscriber data management solution is acting as a restraint of this market. Many manufacturers are focusing on this matter and they are trying to make it user friendly, therefore the impact of this restraint is medium and is expected to be low during the forecast period.The market ofsubscriber data management is segmented into five categories: by deployment, by solution, by network type, by organization size and by application. By deployment the market of subscriber data managementcan be divided intocloud and on premises. Furthermore, the cloud deployment type is expected to be fastestgrowth rate in the SDM market during the forecast period.Owing to its minimum capital investment in nature and its offered subscription-based pricing modelsthus this segment is growing significantly.By solution the market is segmented by policy management, user data repository, subscriber data federation, identity management.In terms of network, the market of subscriber data managementcan be divided into mobile network and fixed networks. By organization size the market of subscriber data management is segmented into large enterprise and small and medium enterprise. In terms of application the market is segmented into voice over IP and video over IP, mobile and fixed mobile convergence among others.By geography the global subscriber data management market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America. North America subscriber data management held the largest market share in 2016, and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) subscriber data management market is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period.Increasing adoption of VoLTE and cloud-based monetization solutions is the major driving factors in North America and is expected to provide a significant growth of subscriber data management (SDM) market during the forecast period. Additionally, in Europe and Asia-Pacific, organizations are redesigning and modernizing their business process to improve their efficiencies. Therefore the organizations have installed SDM as a modern telecommunication network system. This factor is booming the market of SDM in Europe and Asia Pacific. Asia Pacific is expecting the fastest growth due to the rising economics such as China and India. Middle East and Africa has shown a remarkable growth in mobile BPMmarket followed by Latin America in recent years.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @The key players participating in the subscriber data management market are Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Company (California, U.S.),Ericsson (Kista, Stockholm), Nokia Corporation (Espoo, Finland), Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. (Shenzhen, China), Amdocs Inc. (Missouri, U.S.), Oracle Corporation (U.S.), Computaris International Ltd. (Essex, U.K.), Procera Networks, Inc. (California, U.S.), Openwave Mobility, Inc. (California, U.S.), ZTE Corporation (Shenzhen, China), Cisco Systems, Inc. (California, U.S.) and Redknee Solutions, Inc. (Ontario, Canada) among others.About USTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact Us-U.S. OFFICE:State Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207 Industrial Operational Intelligence Solutions Market Headed for Growth and Global Expansion by 2026 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1867 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-1867 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ Industrial operational intelligence is a business analytics and real time dynamic solution that provides greater insights and visibility for businesses. Operational intelligence is used by organisations for real time capabilities to take immediate decisions like stopping any business process or making changes in any traditional systems. Operational intelligence helps in improving and analysing business data through understanding the information related to shortfalls and finding simple ways of responding to any issues. Operational intelligence is simple and easy to be managed by skilled professionals. It helps to acquire information on financial performance of industries and enterprises, thus it has become a major trend in financial services sector. Another major trend observed in operational intelligence is adoption of mobile tools for its operations. Thus in short operational intelligence automated the process of decision making that eliminates delays in process, and improves market responses and decision making. The industrial operational intelligence solutions market is anticipated to expand at a modest CAGR in the forecast period.A sample of this report is available upon request @Global Industrial Operational Intelligence Solutions Market Drivers and RestrainsFocus of companies to improve market responses and performance as well as the necessity to upgrade their processes are the major driving factors for the growth of global industrial operational intelligence solutions market. The ever increasing automobile and other manufacturing industries and their need to reduce the delays in decision making, automatic decision and real time access to the information are some factors that would bolster the global industrial operational intelligence solutions market.However, skilled professionals are required to operate the operational intelligence solutions and also they need to be trained for its handling and these can slowdown the growth of global industrial operational intelligence solutions market. Also the initial cost of operational intelligence solutions is very high and can act as a restraining factor for operational intelligence market.Global Industrial Operational Intelligence Solutions Market SegmentsOn the basis of types, global industrial operational intelligence solutions market can be segmented as follows:Enterprise Manufacturing Operational IntelligenceEnterprise Operational Intelligence SoftwareIT Service IntelligenceEnterprise SecurityOn the basis of applications, global industrial operational intelligence solutions market can be segmented as follows:Supply chain and logisticsAssembly line quality assurancePreventive maintenanceExploration & production optimisationSmart meter analysisOn the basis of end-use industry, global industrial operational intelligence solutions market can be segmented as follows:AutomobilesFood & BeveragesElectronicsLogisticsOil & GasAviationGlobal Industrial Operational Intelligence Solutions Market Region Wise OutlookThe global industrial operational intelligence solutions market can be divided into seven regions, namely North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific, Japan and Middle East and Africa. North America is anticipated to be the leader in the global operational intelligence solutions market owing to its services and other flourishing industries particularly in the countries of US and Canada. Asia Pacific is expected to be the next major region in global operational intelligence solutions market because of the upcoming food & beverages sector, electronics and logistics industries. China and India and supposed to be the countries in this region having major applications of operational intelligence solutions. Europe also contributes significantly in the global industrial operational intelligence solutions market due to its dominance in automobiles market and leadership in meat market. Latin America and Middle East and Africa are at a nascent stage and are projected to have a modest CAGR in the forecast period.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Global Industrial Operational Intelligence Solutions Market Key PlayersSome of the key players in the global industrial operational intelligence solutions market are:APRISOIFSMapR Technologies, IncSiemens AGARC Advisory GroupAB&R (American Barcode and RFID)Flexeye LtdSplunk CorpStarview Inc.Vitria Technology IncAbout UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Contact UsU.S. Office616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWeb: Memristor Market to Expand with Significant CAGR During 2016-2026 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1877 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-1877 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ Memristor is an innovative electric component consists of memory resistor, two terminal electrical component related to the magnetic flux linkage as well as electric charge. The memristor has properties of both memory element and resistor. The electrical resistance isnt constant but it depends on current flowed through it and resistance depends on how much electric charge flowed in what direction in the past. The device has memory history. When current flows in a direction resistance increase, and current flows in opposite direction resistance decreases. Memristors can replace the flash memory. The advanced technologies and rapid innovations enables create opportunities for the companies. The global memristor market anticipated to exhibit a significant CAGR as well as annual growth rate over the forecast period.A sample of this report is available upon request @Memristor Market: Drivers and restraintsThe memristor market can be driven by the following factors, increased chip performance can be done by addition of transistors on circuit. The higher densities increase the problem of heat generation which affects the devices. Memristor enables replace the increasing number of transistors on a circuit. Memristor enables replace D-RAM. The computers using the D-RAM lack of ability to retain information once they shut down. Memristors can remember voltage and no need to reboot the computer. Increased applications of memristors enables drive global memristor market. Increased awareness among the people regarding the technological advancements and innovations in computers enables create lucrative opportunities for the memristors market. Regulatory bodies are implementing stringent regulations towards maintain the required quality of products is major challenge for the market. However, lack of skilled professionals is the major challenge and memristor costlier than the conventional devices, which may hamper the global memristor market.Memristor Market: SegmentationGlobal Market can be segmented as following typesBased on RAM4 GB8 GB16 GB32 GB64 GBBy Product TypeStatic RAM (S-RAM)Dynamic RAM (D-RAM)EPROMMemristor Market: OverviewGlobal memristor market is gaining uptake in surge across the globe due to increased awareness among people. The memristor has its significance such as it can replace flash memory and D-RAM. The global memristor market is witnessed a significant CAGR as well as annual growth rates over the forecast period.Memristor Market: Region-Wise OutlookGlobal market is segmented into seven key regions, those are North America (N.A), Latin America (L.A), Eastern Europe (E.E), Western Europe (W.E), Asia-Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ), Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Japan.North America is anticipated to have a maximum market share in global market due to increased awareness among the people in the countries like US and Canada. Asia-Pacific follows North America in terms of market share in global memristor market owing to the drastic change in Asian countries economy as well as information technology industries in India and china. European region is expected to witness a significant contribution in global memristor market. The global memristor market is anticipated to account for significant CAGR as well as lucrative opportunities for the companies over the forecast period.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Memristor Market: Key playersSome of the key players areToshiba CorporationSanDisk CorporationIntel CorporationFujitsu Ltd.Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Cypress Semiconductor CorporationIBMHewlett PackardSeagate Technology LLC.SK HynixSony CorpAbout UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Contact UsU.S. Office616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWeb: Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market to Witness Exponential Growth by 2026 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2298 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2298 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market OverviewWe all own multiple gadgets like smartphones, tablet computers, desktops and laptops which have increased our dependence on wires to charge these electronic devices. Wouldnt we all like a wire-free, tangle-free existence? The immense desire to go wireless has also begun to impact the medical profession in the form of the Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market. Medical institutions must constantly monitor their equipment, tools, patients or even the professionals working there. A great many of them have opted to go in for the wireless route for the comfort and convenience provided by it. Hospitals have to manage a number of costly systems, tools & equipment which requires a significant investment of time. Loss, theft or misplacement of any of these healthcare assets would be a massive financial loss to the organisation. The Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market provides a real-time solution for medical institutes to keep track of not only physical assets but also the patients & medical professionals. Going wireless provides flexibility, portability and scalability to the system. It ensures that assets & their various categories are easily searchable by indicating both room location & availability, sterilisation status, and also whether it is free or currently in use.A sample of this report is available upon request @Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market DriversThere are several factors responsible for the long-term growth of the wireless healthcare asset management market. One is improving wireless technology. Initially, there were concerns amongst medical professionals that wireless systems would interfere with hospital systems like telemetry which is crucial for measuring a patients vital signs. These problems have been largely taken care of by newer systems which use different wireless frequencies. Another driver is the reduced fears among the public & the industry as a whole about wireless technologies. Great research has been undertaken in this field which has made all radio frequencies used in wireless healthcare asset management equipment quite safe. Agencies like the FCC, FDA, EPA and OSHA have also certified the technologies reassuring patients. A third factor is the patient comfort & convenience. Medical institutions have begun to provide a number of added facilities & those hospitals which do not might lose their patients to those who do. It is not only patients but also medical staff who are becoming increasingly dependent on wireless technology. Doctors & nurses can use hands-free VoFi to stay in continuous contact with the other staff or the main nursing station. Nurses can enter information about their patients while moving around the hospital on a tablet computer. Doctors could even use their mobile phones to access the office servers or various medical applications. All of this is anticipated to drive the wireless healthcare asset management market globally.Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market RestraintsThere are still some challenges which must be overcome in the wireless healthcare asset management market. A major one is a high cost involved in installing wireless management systems. While organisations want to provide all the services that they can to their patients, they may not have the required funding or government support to do so. Wireless systems are usually the first to be sacrificed in cost-cutting. Another issue is designating responsibility for such equipment. All too often, the departments that oversee wireless systems like IT or Biometrics are overloaded and are unable or unwilling to take on additional managerial responsibility. This is especially true when the equipment takes up a lot of space. Lastly, there is a lack of knowledge & expertise concerning such wireless healthcare asset management systems. Medical institutions face difficulty in hiring quality personnel able to understand & exploit this technology to the fullest. These problems must be dealt with for the long term prospects of the wireless healthcare asset management market.Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market Key RegionsThe U.S is both the largest wireless healthcare asset management market and its fastest growing because of a large number of American RFID and RTLS providers and strong healthcare in the country. Asia-Pacific will become a crucial future market because of rising awareness & greater public & private healthcare investments.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Wireless Healthcare Asset Management Market Key Market PlayersSome companies competing in the wireless healthcare asset management market are AeroScout, Inc, GE Healthcare, Ekahau, Inc, IBM Corporation and Siemens Healthcare.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Contact UsU.S. Office616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWeb: Future of the Wireless Power Transmission Market Attractiveness, Competitive Landscape and Key Players TDK Corporation, Texas Instruments, Nucurrent Wireless Power Transmission Market https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/744417-global-wireless-power-transmission-market-6 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/744417-global-wireless-power-transmission-market-6 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=744417 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/744417-global-wireless-power-transmission-market-6 HTF MI published a new industry research that focuses on Wireless Power Transmission market and delivers in-depth market analysis and future prospects of Global Wireless Power Transmission market. The study covers significant data which makes the research document a handy resource for marketing managers, analysts, industry executives, consultants, sales and product managers, and other key people who are in need of ready-to-access and self-analyzed study along with graphs and tables to help understand market trends, drivers and market challenges. The study is segmented by Application/ end users [Smartphones, Electric Vehicles, Wearable Electronics, Industrial & Others], products type [Near-Field Technology & Far-Field Technology] and various important geographies like North America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan & India].Get Access to sample pages @The research covers the current market size of the Global Wireless Power Transmission market and its growth rates based on 5 year history data along with company profile of key players/manufacturers such as Qualcomm, Inc., Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., TDK Corporation, Texas Instruments, Inc., Nucurrent, Inc., Powermat Technologies, Ltd., Powerbyproxi, Ltd., Witricity Corporation, Convenientpower Hk, Ltd., Integrated Device Technology, Leggett & Platt Inc., Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. & Plugless Power. The in-depth information by segments of Wireless Power Transmission market helps monitor future profitability & to make critical decisions for growth. The information on trends and developments, focuses on markets and materials, capacities, technologies, CAPEX cycle and the changing structure of the Global Wireless Power Transmission Market.The study provides company profiling, product picture and specifications, sales, market share and contact information of key manufacturers of Global Wireless Power Transmission Market, some of them listed here are Qualcomm, Inc., Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., TDK Corporation, Texas Instruments, Inc., Nucurrent, Inc., Powermat Technologies, Ltd., Powerbyproxi, Ltd., Witricity Corporation, Convenientpower Hk, Ltd., Integrated Device Technology, Leggett & Platt Inc., Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. & Plugless Power. The market is growing at a very rapid pace and with rise in technological innovation, competition and M&A activities in the industry many local and regional vendors are offering specific application products for varied end-users. The new manufacturer entrants in the market are finding it hard to compete with the international vendors based on quality, reliability, and innovations in technology.Global Wireless Power Transmission (Thousands Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type such as Near-Field Technology & Far-Field Technology. Further the research study is segmented by Application such as Smartphones, Electric Vehicles, Wearable Electronics, Industrial & Others with historical and projected market share and compounded annual growth rate.Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of Wireless Power Transmission in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), covering North America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan & India and its Share (%) and CAGR for the forecasted period 2017 to 2022.Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @The research insights solutions to the following key questions: What will be the market size and the growth rate in 2022? What are the key factors driving the Global Wireless Power Transmission market? Who are the key market players and what are their strategies in the Global Wireless Power Transmission market? What are the key market trends impacting the growth of the Global Wireless Power Transmission market? What trends, challenges and barriers are influencing its growth? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the vendors in the Global Wireless Power Transmission market? What are the key outcomes of the five forces analysis of the Wireless Power Transmission market?Buy this research report @There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the Global Wireless Power Transmission market.Chapter 1, to describe Wireless Power Transmission Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Wireless Power Transmission , with sales, revenue, and price of Wireless Power Transmission , 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 Wireless Power Transmission , for each region, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in North America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan & India;Chapter 10 and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application [Smartphones, Electric Vehicles, Wearable Electronics, Industrial & Others], from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 12, Wireless Power Transmission market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Wireless Power Transmission sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source.Get customization & check discount for report @Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact Us:HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road, Edison, NJ USA - 08837sales@htfmarketreport.comPh: +1 (206) 317 1218 Rising Online Sales will Contribute to Retail Cybersecurity Market Growth By 2025 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=25349 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=25349 Computer security or cyber security involves protection of computer systems from various theft or damage done to hardware or software along with saving systems from service related disruptions. It includes controlling the physical access to the hardware along with protecting against harm that might come via data and code injection or network access. Many a times, it is also seen that malpractices by operators either intentional or accidental leads to the IT security problems.A sample of this report is available upon request @System becomes susceptible to being tricked into other deviations from secure procedures through different methods. Cyber security that provides protection to systems, networks and data within cyberspace is an extremely important issue for all businesses and its smooth functioning in the long run. This is likely to gain more importance with growth in internet penetration and application.Retail industry is experiencing huge growth along with rising advancements and application of technology that are used for maintaining the demand and supply of customers. This has led to the application of cyber security in retail sector resulting in the growth of retail cyber security market. Segmentation for the global cyber security market has been done on the basis of solutions, security type and geography. Based on solutions, this market has been segmented into risk & compliance management, unified threat management, security and vulnerability management, web filtering, encryption and disaster recovery among others. Network, cloud, application and wireless security among others are the various segmentations for this global market based on security type.Global retail cybersecurity market on the basis of geography has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East and Africa.Online retail industry is experiencing immense growth as customers nowadays are opting for faster technological solutions to purchase what they need that has been a major driver for this retail cybersecurity market. Time saving processes along with cost-effectiveness associated with the online retail industry has helped in the rising demand for this market. Along with this, the technological advancement has also lead to the rising chances of cyber-attacks leading to the loss of confidential information of customers that further boosted the demand for retail cyber security globally.Considering these drivers, there are certain factors that has negative impact on the overall market. Some of these factors include the technological risk associated with computer such as virus or malware along with the malpractices done by certain operators that has negatively impacted the global market. Post consideration of all these drivers and restraints, it is the growth of IoT (Internet of things) technology along with the prevention of computer systems from ransomware that is likely to provide opportunities for the growth of this market during the coming years.Geographically, it is North America that is expected to dominate the global market followed by Europe. The growth of online retail sector along with rise in application of IoT technology has been some major drivers to push the growth of this market. Asia Pacific has contributed to be another major region for this market along with accounting one of the fastest growth globally. Some major countries contributing to the growth in this region includes China and India among others. Rise in internet penetration along with growth of online retail sector has been some of the important aspects to have a positive impact on this market.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Some of the key companies that are operating in the global retail cybersecurity market include Symantec Corporation (The U.S.), IBM Corporation (The U.S.), EMC RSA (The U.S.), Intel Security (The U.S.), Hewlett-Packard Enterprise (The U.S.), Cisco Systems, Inc. (The U.S.), Fireeye, Inc. (The U.S.), Rapid7, Inc. (The U.S.), Trend Micro, Inc. (Japan) and Sophos Ltd. (The U.K.) among others.About USTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact Us-U.S. OFFICE:State Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207 Flame Detector Market to See Incredible Growth During 2016-2026 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2356 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2356 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ Flame is defined as an extreme increased in the energy which can be mechanical or nuclear in an uncontrolled amount result in increase in the temperature and evacuation of gases. Flame detectors are being installed for security purposes. It can indicate about fire or flame generated which can be because of explosion, or any kind of accident. There are so many sources responsible for the explosions some of them are increased pressure, nuclear reactions, leakage of gases, dust and others. In order to prevent the loss because of explosions or fire, several types of prevention measurements are being taken in to account and the most important is the fire indicator or flame detector.A flame detector is an indicator or sensor, which is designed to detect and indicate the presence of fire or flame and its response is dependent over its installation and manufacturing technology. Flame detectors come out with different features like sounding an alarm to indicate up to a certain distance, having self-control ability to deactivate fuel lines when observe some danger and activate a fire suppression system. A flame detector detects and indicate the fire or flame more quickly and accurately than a smoke or heat detector because of the mechanism being used to manufacture it. Today flame detector are used in almost all industries for the protection of financial as well as lives.A sample of this report is available upon request @The global flame detector market is expected to grow with the healthier rate during the forecasting period.Flame Detector: Market DynamicsFor last some years flame detector manufacturers has been coming out with latest technology and with more advanced features as more immunity towards false alarm, which are becoming the new trends for the market of global flame detector market. The key growth drivers of global flame detector market are increased adoption of flame detector s in oil & gas industries, exploration of new mining sites which increases the need for flame detector s there, drastic rising demand of flame detector s in automation sector, the newly formed safety regulations for hazardous areas are getting more stiffer & the need of comprehensive flame detector solutions across diverse sectors are some of the growth drivers responsible for the growth of global flame detector market. On the other hand staggering of mineral and mining industries globally & high implementation and maintenance cost of flame detector s are becoming the key restraints for the global flame detector market.Flame Detector: SegmentationSegmentation of global flame detector market are segmented on the basis of product type, service, verticals & Geography. On the basis of product type, global flame detector market is segmented as; single IR, dual UV/IR, single UV, triple IR (IR3), multi IR. Among all the above segments, multi IR is the advanced and is expected to be the major segment during forecast period. By service type, global flame detector market is segmented into following segments; Engineering services, installation & design services, maintenance service, inspection and managed services.On the basis of verticals, global flame detector market is segmented as Oil and Gas industry, automotive, consumer goods and retail, healthcare, energy and power, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, aerospace and defense and others.Geographically, Flame detector is segmented into seven regions which are ; North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Japan, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ), and Middle East and Africa (MEA). Among all the regions North America is the highest contributor in term of revenue in global flame detector market and is expected to retain its position during forecast period.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Flame Detector: Key PlayersThe key players of global flame detector market are Emerson Electric Co., Honeywell International, Inc., Robert Bosch GmbH, Simtronics ASA, Tyco, Det-Tronics, Johnson Controls, Micropack Engineering Ltd. & others.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Contact UsU.S. Office616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWeb: Remote Electrocardiogram Monitoring Market to Witness an Outstanding Growth by 2026 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2476 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2476 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ Telemedicine is using Information Technology and telecommunications to provide medical assistance from a distance. It became especially widespread in the 20th century due to advances in both these fields. It helps to eliminate distance barriers and provide medical aid to distant & far-flung rural areas that would be inaccessible otherwise. The stress of a modern-day fast-paced lifestyle has led to many cases of hypertension, diabetes, heart attacks and various other diseases. That is why the remote electrocardiogram monitoring market has become increasingly important. As per data from the American Health Association (AHA), arrhythmia affects more than 4 million people and causes nearly half a million deaths in the U.S. alone. ECG instruments are the best way to detect & measure arrhythmia. Remote electrocardiogram devices are becoming commonplace for monitoring a patients heart condition. Recently, they have been applied for various heart diseases since the quality & transmission through telecommunications has improved substantially. There are three main components of a remote electrocardiogram monitoring machine the patient, the doctor, and the remote server.A sample of this report is available upon request @Remote Electrocardiogram Monitoring Market DriversOne of the key drivers of the remote electrocardiogram monitoring market is the ageing population in western countries. People there have a strong sense of individuality & prefer living independently in their own homes. Remote electrocardiogram monitoring devices could help doctors provide them prompt medical attention. It saves the doctors time along with the need for patients to take a medical appointment unless their condition is very serious. It is also much more cost-effective than hiring a nurse to visit the individual from time to time. A second factor responsible for growth is improving Internet connectivity in rural areas. Telecommunication technology has progressed by leaps and bounds in the last 30 years and it is now quite easy for a doctor to provide medical aid to patients living in remote villages, which might be both underpenetrated & unserved. A remote electrocardiogram could be used to monitor patients with pacemakers there & the central control unit is able to correctly diagnose an arrhythmia. Electronic stethoscopes can also be used as recording devices, which can be vital in the area of telecardiology. There have been many successful cases of this worldwide already. These are the main drivers of the remote electrocardiogram monitoring market.Remote Electrocardiogram Monitoring Market RestraintsThere are several challenges present in the remote electrocardiogram monitoring market with a major one being unreliable connectivity. We have all faced the problem of a slow Internet connection, no cell phone network, too much line disturbance or rolling blackouts at some point in time. This can pose a serious problem to medical practitioners when they are checking their patients. Losing connectivity midway would cause great inconvenience to both parties. A second issue could be resistance to change. People might either be unaware of such medical aid or be hesitant to go in for it in the first place. There could also be resistance from hospital staff because they may not be trained to use it. The IT department of any organisation is frequently overloaded and even they might stall the adoption of this equipment since it will be added responsibility which they may be unable or unwilling to shoulder. There could also a question of who will provide the funding, especially in developing nations where government reimbursement is hard to come by.Remote Electrocardiogram Monitoring Market Key RegionsNorth America is the largest remote electrocardiogram monitoring market & is expected to remain so in the near future. This is due to a high prevalence of arrhythmia, hypertension and diabetes there along with awareness of these ailments & enhanced medical care. The geriatric populations of Europe, China, Japan and Korea will also ensure a steady demand for the remote electrocardiogram monitoring market there.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Remote Electrocardiogram Monitoring Market Key Market PlayersSome companies in the remote electrocardiogram monitoring market are Huntleigh Diagnostics, Intelesens, iRhythm Technologies, GE Healthcare, MD Biomedical, Kalamed, Labtech, and Life Watch & Jiangsu Konsung Medical Equipment.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Contact UsU.S. Office616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWeb: Top Vendors of Global LED Materials Market like Osram Licht AG, Sumitomo Electric Industries, UBE Industries, Ltd., Addison Engineering, Inc. are Dominating the market till 2024 http://databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=global-led-materials-market http://databridgemarketresearch.com/speak-to-analyst/?dbmr=global-led-materials-market http://databridgemarketresearch.com/toc/?dbmr=global-led-materials-market http://databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-led-materials-market/ http://databridgemarketresearch.com/blog/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/data-bridge-market-research The Global LED Materials Market accounted for USD 7.90 billion in 2016 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.0% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2024. The upcoming market report contains data for historic years 2014, 2015, the base year of calculation is 2016 and the forecast period is 2017 to 2024.New research report of Global LED Materials Market Analysis with Top Comapnies as recent as 2017 and forecasts up to 2024 that helps you track the unprecedented growth seen in the Information and communication Industry giving you an edge to not just compete but to outmatch the competition.Get a Free Sample Report @Global LED Materials Market By Type (Substrate, Wafer, Epitaxy, Phosphor) By Application {General Lighting (Residential, Industrial, Outdoor), Automotive Lighting (Interior, Exterior), Backlighting} By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Europe, South America, Middle East and Africa) Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024Competitive Landscape:The Global LED Materials Market is fragmented with the presence of a large number of players across different regions. These major players have adopted various organic as well as inorganic growth strategies such as mergers & acquisitions, new product launches, expansions, agreements, joint ventures, partnerships, and others to strengthen their position in this market.Avail 10% Discount on this Report @Major Market Drivers Ban on the use of incandescent bulbs in several countries Government subsidies on LED lights Advantages of LEDs over alternative light sourcesMarket restraint: Lack of awareness about the benefits of LED in some regionsTOP Competitors of Market: Akzonobel N.V, Cree, Inc., Epistar Corporation, Hitachi Metals, Ltd., II-VI Incorporated, Koninklijke Philips N.V., Nichia Corporation, Osram Licht AG, Sumitomo Electric Industries, UBE Industries, Ltd., Addison Engineering, Inc., China Crystal Technologies Co., Ltd, Dowa Electronic Materials Co Ltd, Epigan NV, Everl0ight Electronics Co., Ltd, Freiberger Compound Materials GmbH, Lake LED Materials Co., Ltd, LG Innotek, Macom Technology Solutions, MTI Corporation, Seoul Semiconductors Co, Ltd, Sino Nitride Semiconductor Co, Ltd, Six Point Materials, Inc., Soraa, Xinxiang Shenzhou Crystal Technology Co., Ltd many more.Request for Detail TOC @Market Defination:-A light emitting diode or LED is a semiconductor device. LED produces incoherent narrow spectrum of light when it is in forward biased condition. The color of the light emitted depends on the composition of the semiconductor material used in manufacturing of LED. There is a growing demand for LED material in general lighting, automotive lighting and backlighting activities, which is expected to be one of the major drivers of the market over the next seven years.Market Segmentation:The LED materials market is segmented on the basis of type into substrate, wafer, epitaxy, and phosphor.On the basis of application:- General lighting, automotive lighting, and backlighting. The general lightning is sub segmented into residential, industrial and outdoor.On the basis of end-user:- Tires, adhesives and industrial rubber.On the basis of geography:- North America, South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Middle East & Africa. U.S., Canada, Germany, France, U.K., Netherlands, Switzerland, Turkey, Russia, China, India, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Brazil among others.Read more about This Report @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.Vishal DixitData Bridge Market ResearchTel: +1-888-387-2818Email: Sales@databridgemarketresearch.comInvestor: investors@databridgemarketresearch.comVisit Blog:Follow us on LinkedIn: Global Oolong Tea Market 20107-2022 Key Players: Tetley, ESP Tea Emporium, The Republic of Tea, Harney & Sons, Generation Tea, Teavana, Mighty Leaf Tea Company, Bigelow Tea, Choice Organic Teas,.. Oolong Tea Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/1564584-global-oolong-tea-market-professional-survey-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/1564584-global-oolong-tea-market-professional-survey-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=1564584 Oolong Tea Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Oolong Tea Market 2017 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting to 2022reports to its database.Executive SummaryThis report studies Oolong Tea 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, coveringTetley,ESP Tea Emporium,The Republic of Tea,Harney & Sons,Generation Tea,Teavana,Mighty Leaf Tea Company,Bigelow Tea,Choice Organic Teas,Request Sample Report @By types, the market can be split intoTi Kuan YinFormosa OolongPouchongDarjeeling OolongOthersBy Application, the market can be split intoResidentialHotel & RestaurantCafe & Tea StationBy Regions, this report covers (we can add the regions/countries as you want)North AmericaChinaEuropeSoutheast AsiaJapanIndiaIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.For further information on this report, visit -Table of Content:Global Oolong Tea Market Professional Survey Report 20171 Industry Overview of Oolong Tea1.1 Definition and Specifications of Oolong Tea1.1.1 Definition of Oolong Tea1.1.2 Specifications of Oolong Tea1.2 Classification of Oolong Tea1.2.1 Ti Kuan Yin1.2.2 Formosa Oolong1.2.3 Pouchong1.2.4 Darjeeling Oolong1.2.5 Others1.3 Applications of Oolong Tea1.3.1 Residential1.3.2 Hotel & Restaurant1.3.3 Cafe & Tea Station1.4 Market Segment by Regions1.4.1 North America1.4.2 China1.4.3 Europe1.4.4 Southeast Asia1.4.5 Japan1.4.6 India2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Oolong Tea2.1 Raw Material and Suppliers2.2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Oolong Tea2.3 Manufacturing Process Analysis of Oolong Tea2.4 Industry Chain Structure of Oolong Tea3 Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Oolong Tea3.1 Capacity and Commercial Production Date of Global Oolong Tea Major Manufacturers in 20163.2 Manufacturing Plants Distribution of Global Oolong Tea Major Manufacturers in 20163.3 R&D Status and Technology Source of Global Oolong Tea Major Manufacturers in 20163.4 Raw Materials Sources Analysis of Global Oolong Tea Major Manufacturers in 20164 Global Oolong Tea Overall Market Overview4.1 2012-2017E Overall Market Analysis4.2 Capacity Analysis4.2.1 2012-2017E Global Oolong Tea Capacity and Growth Rate Analysis4.2.2 2016 Oolong Tea Capacity Analysis (Company Segment)4.3 Sales Analysis4.3.1 2012-2017E Global Oolong Tea Sales and Growth Rate Analysis4.3.2 2016 Oolong Tea Sales Analysis (Company Segment)4.4 Sales Price Analysis4.4.1 2012-2017E Global Oolong Tea Sales Price4.4.2 2016 Oolong Tea Sales Price Analysis (Company Segment)5 Oolong Tea Regional Market Analysis5.1 North America Oolong Tea Market Analysis5.1.1 North America Oolong Tea Market Overview5.1.2 North America 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis5.1.3 North America 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Sales Price Analysis5.1.4 North America 2016 Oolong Tea Market Share Analysis5.2 China Oolong Tea Market Analysis5.2.1 China Oolong Tea Market Overview5.2.2 China 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis5.2.3 China 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Sales Price Analysis5.2.4 China 2016 Oolong Tea Market Share Analysis5.3 Europe Oolong Tea Market Analysis5.3.1 Europe Oolong Tea Market Overview5.3.2 Europe 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis5.3.3 Europe 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Sales Price Analysis5.3.4 Europe 2016 Oolong Tea Market Share Analysis5.4 Southeast Asia Oolong Tea Market Analysis5.4.1 Southeast Asia Oolong Tea Market Overview5.4.2 Southeast Asia 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis5.4.3 Southeast Asia 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Sales Price Analysis5.4.4 Southeast Asia 2016 Oolong Tea Market Share Analysis5.5 Japan Oolong Tea Market Analysis5.5.1 Japan Oolong Tea Market Overview5.5.2 Japan 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis5.5.3 Japan 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Sales Price Analysis5.5.4 Japan 2016 Oolong Tea Market Share Analysis5.6 India Oolong Tea Market Analysis5.6.1 India Oolong Tea Market Overview5.6.2 India 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis5.6.3 India 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Sales Price Analysis5.6.4 India 2016 Oolong Tea Market Share Analysis6 Global 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Segment Market Analysis (by Type)6.1 Global 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Sales by Type6.2 Different Types of Oolong Tea Product Interview Price Analysis6.3 Different Types of Oolong Tea Product Driving Factors Analysis6.3.1 Ti Kuan Yin of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor Analysis6.3.2 Formosa Oolong of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor Analysis6.3.3 Pouchong of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor Analysis6.3.4 Darjeeling Oolong of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor Analysis6.3.5 Others of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor Analysis7 Global 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Segment Market Analysis (by Application)7.1 Global 2012-2017E Oolong Tea Consumption by Application7.2 Different Application of Oolong Tea Product Interview Price Analysis7.3 Different Application of Oolong Tea Product Driving Factors Analysis7.3.1 Residential of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor Analysis7.3.2 Hotel & Restaurant of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor Analysis7.3.3 Cafe & Tea Station of Oolong Tea Growth Driving Factor AnalysisContinuousBuy this Report @Contact Us:Norah Trentsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US); +44 208 133 9349 (UK)About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042 North America to Attribute Largely to Underwater Wireless Communication Market Growth By 2027 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=25799 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=25799 Global Underwater Wireless Communication Market: SnapshotThe installation of heavy cables for establishing high-speed communication between the remote source and surface had its own demerits in terms of cost and durability. This triggered the necessity for underwater wireless communication. Underwater wireless communication networks are being increasingly deployed across the world, owing to their ability to provide support and differentiated services for several applications, including surveillance and real-time monitoring for pollution, environment, ocean current, and climate.A sample of this report is available upon request @Governments worldwide are pouring funds into the development and improvement of communication infrastructure. This is, in turn, working in favor of the global underwater wireless communication market. These networks are used across different verticals, including oil and gas, marine, and military and defense. The military and defense segment will account for a large share in the market, thanks to the increasing investments by governments in the defense sector. Oil and gas will also be a prominent revenue contributor in the market. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the increasing onshore and offshore exploration activities. The marine segment is expected to register healthy growth during the review period.The global underwater wireless communication market holds immense potential and therefore, an influx of new players is expected, intensifying the competition in the near future. Mergers and collaborations are among the commonly adopted strategies by large players to expand their product and service portfolio and enhance their visibility in the market.Underwater Wireless Communication Market: IntroductionUnder water wireless communication network is adopted by several industries which are located near to seashore, to provide support services to maritime applications. As there is a certain increase in offshore oil and gas industries the demand for monitoring pollution in water environment, and detection of objects under sea has increased the scope of underwater wireless communication market.There are several applications of underwater wireless communication in aerospace and marine industry. Under water wireless communication is reliable source for high level operational process and also it is preferred by most of the organizations because it gives quality throughput in low power.Underwater Wireless Communication Market: Drivers and ChallengesThe major factor driving the demand for underwater wireless communication is the rising demand for controlled under water vehicles. In marine application, under water vehicles plays a vital role to provide present situation under the water with fast speed. It also help industries for continuous monitoring without any loss of information. The underwater wireless communication has several advantages over wired communication such as data security which is also responsible for the growth of market. Pollution monitoring is used for the purpose of pollution acoustic pollution control which is also turning to be a factor driving the demand for underwater wireless communication market in positive manner.The major restraint face by the underwater wireless communication market is regarding to security concern while transmitting wireless signals.Underwater Wireless Communication Market: SegmentationSegmentation of underwater wireless communication on the basis of technology:Sensor technologyVehicular technologySegmentation of underwater wireless communication on the basis of application:Environmental monitoringPollution monitoringOcean current monitoringClimate recordingSegmentation of underwater wireless communication on the basis of vertical:Oil and GasDefenseUnderwater Wireless Communication Market: Key PlayersSome of the key players of the underwater wireless communication are: DSPComms, SAAB SEAEYE, Oceaneering International, Deep Ocean Engineering, ECA Robotics, and Forum Energy Technologies.Underwater Wireless Communication Market: Regional OverviewOn the basis of geography, under water wireless communication market can be segmented into seven key regions namely North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, APEJ, Japan and Middle East & Africa. Among various regions, the underwater wireless communication market in North America is expected to dominate during the forecast period owing to large adoption of remote application by several industries for the purpose underwater monitoring. North America region is expected to be followed by Western Europe and APAC.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @In Europe region, the market of underwater wireless communication is growing significantly owing adoption of underwater wireless network for the purpose of border security by defense industry.About USTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact Us-U.S. OFFICE:State Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207 Smart sensors for efficient processes An engineer performs robotics-supported testing of steel sheets for mechanical properties (residual stresses). www.izfp.fraunhofer.de www.izfp.fraunhofer.de Material defects in end products can quickly result in failures in many areas of industry, and have a massive impact on the safe use of their products. This is why, in the field of quality assurance, intelligent, nondestructive sensor systems play a key role. They allow testing components and parts in a rapid and cost-efficient manner without destroying the actual product or changing its surface. Experts from the Fraunhofer IZFP in Saarbrucken will be presenting two exhibits at the Blechexpo in Stuttgart from 710 November 2017 that allow fast, reliable, and automated characterization of materials and detection of defects (Hall 5, Booth 5306).When quality testing uses time-consuming destructive test methods, it can result in enormous costs due to damaging or destroying the products. And given that testing is restricted to random sampling, faults in processes are often not found until a large amount of scrap has already been produced. Consequently, nondestructive testing method represent an alternative, and after appropriate adaptation processes, also a replacement for destructive methods for the long run.Cognitive sensors for quality assurance in productionAt this year's Blechexpo, our engineers will demonstrate a robotics-supported sensor system that can rapidly and easily be integrated into production processes. The automated application of intelligent, nondestructive sensor systems is not only essential for ensuring optimum product quality in production, it is also indispensable for realizing current machine learning concepts. The potential use of such systems will be demonstrated in an exemplary case of robotics-supported testing of press-hardened parts by means of EMAT* and 3MA**. EMAT allows couplant-free testing of defects in sheet metal, while parallel application of 3MA makes quantitative material characterization possible.Testing within secondsThe advantages of the robotics-based combination of the two sensors (3MA, EMAT) include rapid testing in mere seconds, determining and evaluating several relevant quality characteristics, as well as the nondestructive testing of sheet metal. "The combined sensor-based testing process allows early detection of mechanical properties, e.g., the residual stress and the hardness of steel, as well as defects like cracks or necking. This will save resources, reduce costs, and contribute to strengthening manufacturers' competitive position," explained Frank Leinenbach, development engineer at the Fraunhofer IZFP. The institute has decades of experience and expertise in combining and automating nondestructive testing methods for production.Quality assurance during steel productionThe steel-producing and -processing industries need nondestructive testing methods in quality assurance. Frequently relevant quality characteristics include hardness, case depth, strength, and residual stresses. In this context, nondestructive micromagnetic testing methods are optimally suited for providing fast and reliable statements on the quality status of ferromagnetic materials. "An inspection task that is being requested frequently is the monitoring of heavy steel plates, and the related detection of localized increases in surface hardening," explained Sargon Youssef, researcher and engineer at the Fraunhofer IZFP. These localized effects can be detected by means of micromagnetic measuring effects when the 3MA-X8 testing technology developed at the Fraunhofer IZFP is applied. The specific strengths of the 3MA-X8 testing system lie in its user-friendly learning curve and calibration, as well as in its variable and robust sensor design. A key point is the test system's multi-channel real-time capability.The 3MA-X8 testing method will be demonstrated at the Blechexpo in Stuttgart using a fair exhibit. As under realistic conditions, our high-tech testing technology will be integrated in a miniaturized rolling line. Here, sheet metal to be tested will be measured using the testing method, detected, and sorted if necessary into "OK sheet metal" or "not-OK sheet metal".* EMAT: Electromagnetic acoustic transducer** 3MA: Micromagnetic multiparameter, microstructure, and stress analysisAs an internationally renowned R&D center for nondestructive testing methods (NDT) Fraunhofer IZFP does research and development work for nondestructive monitoring in the field of materials, component, and product characterization. The institute develops industrial-grade high-performance system solutions to prototype and series maturity, covering the entire range of nondestructive inspection methods aligned to industry-specific product life cycles, from which we derive the current challenges our customers and partners face. The institutes scientists, engineers, and technicians compile application-oriented monitoring solutions to enhance the quality of our customers products, starting with process-integrated sensors up to Materials Data Space applications.Dipl.-Ubers. Sabine Poitevin-BurbesFraunhofer Institute for Nondestructive Testing IZFPHead of Corporate CommunicationsCampus E3 1, 66123 Saarbrucken, GermanyPhone +49 681 9302-3869 I Fax +49 681 9302-113869sabine.poitevin-burbes@izfp.fraunhofer.de I Latanoprost Market by Manufacturers, Countries, Type and Application, Forecast To 2022 latanoprost https://www.marketresearchnest.com/north-america-latanoprost-market-by-manufacturers-countries-type-and-application-forecast-to-2022.html https://www.marketresearchnest.com/purchase.php?reportid=270083 https://www.marketresearchnest.com/requestsample.php?reportid=270083 MarketResearchNest.com adds North America Latanoprost Market by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 new report to its research database. The report spread across in a 119 pages with table and figures in it."Latanoprost drops is a clear colorless liquid and a medication used to treat increased pressure inside the eye. Onset of effects is usually within four hours, and they last for up to a day.Latanoprost is used to treat high pressure inside the eye due to glaucoma (open angle type) or other eye diseases (e.g., ocular hypertension). It is similar to a natural chemical in the body (prostaglandin) and works by regulating the flow of fluid within the eye which results in lower pressure. Lowering high pressure inside the eye helps to prevent blindness."Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Latanoprost in North America market, especially in United States, Canada and Mexico. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, countries, type and application.Browse full table of contents and data tables atMarket Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversPfizer, Mylan, Novartis, Apotex, Teva, Taj Pharma, CR Zizhu.Market Segment by Countries, coveringUnited States, Canada, Mexico.Market Segment by Type, coversBrand Drug, Generic Drug.Market Segment by Applications, can be divided intoOpen-angle Glaucoma, Close-angle Glaucoma.Order a Purchase Report Copy atThere are 15 Chapters to deeply display the North America Latanoprost market.Chapter 1, to describe Latanoprost Introduction, product type and application, market overview, market analysis by countries, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the manufacturers of Latanoprost, with profile, main business, news, sales, price, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with profile, main business, news, sales, price, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 4, to show the North America market by countries, covering United States, Canada and Mexico, with sales, revenue and market share of Latanoprost, for each country, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5 and 6, to show the market by type and application, with sales, price, revenue, market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the segment market in United States, Canada and Mexico, by manufacturers, type and application, with sales, price, revenue and market share by manufacturers, types and applications;Chapter 10, Latanoprost market forecast, by countries, type and application, with sales, price and revenue, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 11, to analyze the manufacturing cost, key raw materials and manufacturing process etc.Chapter 12, to analyze the industrial chain, sourcing strategy and downstream end users (buyers);Chapter 13, to describe sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers etc.Chapter 14 and 15, to describe Latanoprost Research Findings and Conclusion, Appendix, methodology and data sourceRequest a sample copy atAbout Us:MarketResearchNest.com is the most comprehensive collection of market research products and services on the Web. We offer reports from almost all top publishers and update our collection on daily basis to provide you with instant online access to the worlds most complete and recent database of expert insights on Latanoprost industries, organizations, products, and trends.Contact UsMr. Jeet JainSales Managersales@marketresearchnest.com+1-240-284-8070(U.S)+44-20-3290-4151(U.K)Connect with us: Google+ | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook RAPEX Lists Juvenile Products Among Top Five Notifications in 2016 https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/consumers_safety/safety_products/rapex/alerts/?event=main.listNotifications] www.sgs.com/en/consumer-goods-retail/toys-and-juvenile-products/juvenile-products-and-childcare-articles] www.sgs.com/hardlines RAPEX, the European Unions (EU) rapid alert system for dangerous products, excluding food, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, listed juvenile products among its top five notified types of products in 2016. In recent years, notifications for childcare articles and childrens equipment have been steadily increasing, reminding manufacturers that they need to ensure their products are safe and compliant to avoid costly and damaging recalls.RAPEX covers 31 countries in the EU and EEA (European Economic Area). When a dangerous product is identified, the European Commission (EC) is notified and RAPEX ensures this information is disseminated to all members. Notifications can be: Compulsory originating from a governmental or customs authority Voluntary originating from a producer or distributor, who will notify the EC when a problem is identified and a product needs to be withdrawnThe overall number of notifications via RAPEX have remained fairly constant during the last few years, with toys being the dominant category in 2016, 26% of all notifications were for toys. The principal notifying countries in 2016 were Germany, Spain, France, Hungary and the UK.In 2016, Childcare Articles and Childrens Equipment had 74 notifications, accounting for 5% of all recalls and making it one of the top five recalled categories. This category has been increasing in recent years, from only 36 notified products in 2013.Sixteen of the 74 notified childcare products notified in 2016 were categorized as furniture, meaning high chairs, wooden cots, wooden playpens and childrens chairs.In the category for childcare articles and childrens equipment, notifications were equally split between compulsory and voluntary seen as a demonstration of the effectiveness of the voluntary system. On a more somber note, three of these notifications resulted from incident reports two involving safety gates and one relating to a baby carrier. In addition, one notification resulted from the accidental death of a child.RAPEX data also showed the majority of notified products in this category came from EU and EEA countries. SGS is, however, warning against taking this data at face value as the origin of these products has often been inaccurately identified.Safety gates have been identified as being responsible for several notifications but this may result from a recent report into safety barriers by PROSAFE, the European market surveillance organization. The main reasons given for the 21 notifications in this sub-category were entrapment, strength, snagging, failure of the locking mechanism and inappropriate construction, in this case insufficient height to provide a safe barrier.The second largest sub-category of notified childcare articles and childrens equipment was cots, folding cots and cribs, which also identified entrapment and snagging as the main reasons for concern. In addition, insufficient strength was also a contributing factor in twelve notifications in this sub-category.Under amber necklaces and bracelets, totaling ten notifications, small parts being potential choking hazards and the possible strangulation were the main reasons for recall. These twohazards were also seen in other sub-categories, including childrens chairs, baby walkers and baby cushions.The main hazard among all childcare articles and childrens equipment is entrapment, accounting for 24 notifications. In addition to safety gates, it was also identified as a problem in playpens, cots, folding cots, changing tables for folding cots, high chairs, pushchairs and prams.Manufacturers should be aware of the potential hazards associated with childcare articles and childrens equipment. To help stakeholders stay informed, RAPEX produces weekly reports: RAPEX Weekly Reports [SGS Juvenile Product ServicesSGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and childrens equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. Learn more about SGSs Juvenile Product Services [For further information contact:Catherine Follin-ArbeletSenior Expert, Juvenile ProductsEmail: crs.media@sgs.comWebsite:About SGSSGS is the worlds leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 90,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,000 offices and laboratories around the world.1, Mons CalpeChitcombe RoadBroad OakRyeEast SussexTN31 6EU United States Wireless Power Transmission Market production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate by 2017 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/reports/1330379/united-states-wireless-power-transmission-market-research-reports https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/1330379 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/enquiry/1330379 http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ "The Report United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Report 2017 provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"In this report, the United States Wireless Power Transmission 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 splits the United States market into seven regions:The WestSouthwestThe Middle AtlanticNew EnglandThe SouthThe Midwestwith sales (volume), revenue (value), market share and growth rate of Wireless Power Transmission in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast).View Report @United States Wireless Power Transmission market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Wireless Power Transmission sales volume, price, revenue (Million USD) and market share for each manufacturer/player; the top players includingQualcomm, Inc.Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.TDK CorporationTexas Instruments, Inc.Nucurrent, Inc.Powermat Technologies, Ltd.Powerbyproxi, Ltd.Witricity CorporationConvenientpower Hk, Ltd.Integrated Device TechnologyLeggett & Platt Inc.Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd.Plugless PowerGet Sample Copy Of This Report @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoNear-Field TechnologyFar-Field TechnologyOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume, market share and growth rate of Wireless Power Transmission for each application, includingSmartphonesElectric VehiclesWearable ElectronicsIndustrialOthersSend An Enquiry Request @Table of ContentsUnited States Wireless Power Transmission Market Report 20171 Wireless Power Transmission Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Wireless Power Transmission1.2 Classification of Wireless Power Transmission by Product Category1.2.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Size (Sales Volume) Comparison by Type (2012-2022)1.2.2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Size (Sales Volume) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Near-Field Technology1.2.4 Far-Field Technology1.3 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market by Application/End Users1.3.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Size (Consumption) and Market Share Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Smartphones1.3.3 Electric Vehicles1.3.4 Wearable Electronics1.3.5 Industrial1.3.6 Others1.4 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market by Region1.4.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Size (Value) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 The West Wireless Power Transmission Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 Southwest Wireless Power Transmission Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 The Middle Atlantic Wireless Power Transmission Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 New England Wireless Power Transmission Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 The South Wireless Power Transmission Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 The Midwest Wireless Power Transmission Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 United States Market Size (Value and Volume) of Wireless Power Transmission (2012-2022)1.5.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2022)1.5.2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2022)2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Competition by Players/Suppliers2.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales and Market Share of Key Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Revenue and Share by Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.3 United States Wireless Power Transmission Average Price by Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.4 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.4.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Concentration Rate2.4.2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Players/Suppliers2.4.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion in United States Market2.5 United States Players/Suppliers Wireless Power Transmission Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area, Product Type3 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales (Volume) and Revenue (Value) by Region (2012-2017)3.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Revenue and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.3 United States Wireless Power Transmission Price by Region (2012-2017)4 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales (Volume) and Revenue (Value) by Type (Product Category) (2012-2017)4.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales and Market Share by Type (Product Category) (2012-2017)4.2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Revenue and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)4.3 United States Wireless Power Transmission Price by Type (2012-2017)4.4 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales Growth Rate by Type (2012-2017)5 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales (Volume) by Application (2012-2017)5.1 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales and Market Share by Application (2012-2017)5.2 United States Wireless Power Transmission Sales Growth Rate by Application (2012-2017)5.3 Market Drivers and OpportunitiesAbout usMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.Mr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:Email: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Legal Marijuana Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities and Analysis of Top Key Player 2020 SUMMARY WiseGuyReports published new report, titled Legal Marijuana Market Cannabis, also known as marijuana, belongs to a family of plants called Cannabaceae. There are over 700 varieties of cannabis, which have been described till date. Based on characteristics such as shape, color, height, smell, it is usually recognized by two main types: Cannabis Sativa, which originated in the Western hemisphere and Cannabis Indica, which originated in Central and South Asia. The report Marijuana Market provides an in-depth analysis of the US and Canada market on the basis of its segments. The major trends, growth drivers as well as issues being faced by the industry are being presented in this report. The key players in the industry, American Cannabis Company, mCig, Inc., GreenGro Technologies, Inc. and Mentor Capital Inc. are being profiled. GET SAMPLE REPORT @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/1615837-legal-marijuana-market-medical-recreational-with-focus-on-us-canada-industry The key factors driving the growth of the marijuana/cannabis market are technological advancement, premium pricing due to high energy consumption in marijuana production, rising social acceptance of marijuana and growing business opportunities, increasing business sophistication, large base of potential cannabis consumers, medical cannabis on the rise, growing popular support in cannabis market and the growth of the vaporizer industry. Some of the noteworthy trends and developments of this industry are national expansion & brand growth, emergence of large grow, banking & financial services, cannabis as healthcare treatment and innovative product development. However, the expansion of marijuana/cannabis market is hindered by legal issues. In addition to the legalization of medical marijuana, there are states which have also legalized the recreational use of this drug for adults who are 21 years old or older. So far, four states as well as the District of Columbia have legalized recreational marijuana use, and 23 states allow marijuana use for medical purposes. These changes in state laws have helped the growth of the cannabis industry. The new and revised laws show that people are finally starting to realize that this drug can have legitimate uses. Table of Contents 1. Marijuana Market Overview 1.1 Cannabis Ingestion Methods 1.2 Uses of Marijuana/Cannabis 1.3 Medical Indications and Benefits 1.4 Adverse Effects of Marijuana/Cannabis 1.5 Overview of Marijuana Legalization Models 1.6 Overview of Cannabis Testing Technologies ..CONTINUED List of Charts Cannabis Industry Segments Cannabis Ingestion Methods Overview of Marijuana Legalization Models The US Legal Marijuana Market Forecast by Value (2015-2020) The US Legal Marijuana Market Forecast - Medical and Recreational (2015-2020) The US Cannabis Industry - Total Economic Impact Forecast (2015-2020) The US Prevalence Rate of Marijuana by Age Group (2015) The US Prevalence Rate of Marijuana by Gender (2015) ..CONTINUED List of Tables Medical Indications and Benefits Overview of Cannabis Testing Technologies Cannabis Legalized States and the District of Columbia Cannabis Limited Use States and 3 Decriminalized States Financial Comparison of Key Players (2015) ..CONTINUED Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Research Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTD Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar Pune - 411028 Maharashtra, India Ph: +91 841 198 5042 info@wiseguyreports.com This release was published on openPR. Permanent link to this press release: Copy Please set a link in the press area of your homepage to this press release on openPR. openPR disclaims liability for any content contained in this release. Specialty Cleaning and Sanitation Products Market Dynamics, Forecast, Analysis and Supply Demand 2013 - 2019 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=2288 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=2288 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Specialty cleaning products refer to the chemicals that are used to clean different materials and surfaces such as bathrooms, drains, ovens, upholstery and carpets. It also includes polishes and waxes used to provide a finishing to furniture, floorings, different metals and glass. Fabric softeners and fluorescent whitening agents which are applied to apparel also come under this market category. Sanitation refers to products such as disinfectants and deodorizers. The goods in this category can be classified into commodity cleaners and specialty cleaners. Commodity cleaners are generally sold in bulk at lower price, while specialty cleaners are sold in small quantities at high price.Request Report Brochure @Majority of the demand for specialty cleaning and sanitation products are derived from industries and institutions which include contract cleaning firms, schools, institutions, office buildings, restaurants, hotels and hospitals. Domestic demand accounts for about one-third of the total demand. Government regulations regarding the content of cleaners act as a restraint to this industry. Volatile organic compounds emission was a major cause of concern for industrial buyers, which prompted many companies to switch to bio alternatives. However, VOC emissions did not affect the domestic demand. Improper disposal of dry cleaning materials also pose a threat to the environment which raised government concerns. Some applications of cleaning products have reduced due to the advent of new flooring surfaces and furniture which do not require frequent polishing and cleaning.North America and Europe are the largest market for specialty cleaning and sanitation products, while Asia Pacific and South America regions have exhibited the strongest growth rate over the years, due to betterment of living conditions and increase in disposable income in these geographies. Some of the major companies that are operating in the market are Du Pont, S.C. Johnson and Son Inc., Clorox Co., Madison Bionics, and Reckitt and Colman Inc. among many others.This research report analyzes this market depending on its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. Geographies analyzed under this research report includeNorth AmericaAsia PacificEuropeRest of the WorldThis report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming yearsVisit For TOC @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.About Us Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among othersContact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: Global Construction Aggregates Market Will Rise At 6.8% CAGR BY 2025 MRRSE https://www.mrrse.com/sample/3104 https://www.mrrse.com/enquiry/3104 https://plus.google.com/u/0/109558601025749677847/posts https://www.linkedin.com/company/mrrse https://twitter.com/MRRSEmrrse Among the product types, the sand segment is estimated to remain dominant by holding almost 44% share in the global construction aggregates market during 2017. The crushed stone segment comes a close second, estimated to account for just a little more than 40% share by the end of 2017. The crushed stone segment is estimated to gain an impressive 230 BPS during the forecast period and is expected to expand at a relatively high CAGR of 6.8% during the said period. The gravel segment is estimated to be valued at more than US$ 55 Bn by the end of 2017 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5% to reach a market value of more than US$ 85 Bn by 2025 end. The gravel segment is likely to create an incremental $ opportunity of US$ 28 Bn over the period of forecast. The other aggregates segment is expected to hold relatively minor share due to very limited use of other type of aggregates in the construction industry.Request Free sample Report :Illegal mining activities is one of the major restraints for the growth of manufactured sand in the global construction aggregates marketOwing to the depletion of natural sources of sand and rising political pressures, the global construction aggregates market is witnessing increasing production of manufactured sand.However, the construction aggregates market is a highly unorganized local market with illegal mining activities, which may act as a major restraint for the growth of the global market for manufactured sand. Another factor hampering the growth of manufactured sand is that natural sand is expected to remain a significant segment than manufactured sand due to the availability of natural resources and more economical extraction procedures.The production of other recycled aggregates is also hampered due to the lack of government initiatives in developing regions such as India, China, and Africa. Although construction aggregates are low cost materials, due to their heaviness, transportation costs will be higher and this is likely to restrain the growth of the global construction aggregates market.Stringent zoning regulations on the extraction of aggregates in populated areas is one of the important reason for curbing the development of the aggregates segment. Many times obtaining the necessary permissions for a mining site is difficult and time-consuming due to environmental laws, land development laws, and zoning laws; and it could take several years to get permission, which will ultimately hinder the growth of the aggregates segment.Germany-based HedelbergCement AG acquires Italy-based competitor company Italcementi SpAGermany-based HeidelbergCement AG has bought over its Italy-based competitor company Italcementi SpA. HeidelbergCement claims itself as the worlds second-biggest cement maker.Initially, HeidelbergCement purchased 45% of Italmobiliare SpAs stake, by paying 10.6 Euros for each share, which is more than 60% higher than the closing price of Italcementis price before the announcement of the deal. This acquisition is expected to help in the expansion of operations of HeidelbergCement in the Mediterranean countries of Egypt and Italy and the company is also likely to spread its operations in Begium and France. This deal is also expected to give HeidelbergCement the greatest boost in the Africa and Middle East region. According to the highly placed officials of HeidelbergCement, company revenue is expected to increase to 20 billion Euros by 2020, with earnings before considering depreciation, taxes, amortization and interest of more than 5 billion Euros. The Germany based company operates 156 cement plants with an annual cement capacity of 197 million tons.Enquire About This Report :Market Research Reports Search Engine(MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of market intelligence reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting.State Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY - 12207United StatesTelephone: +1-518-730-0559Email: sales@mrrse.comGoogle+:Linked in:Twitter: Taylorcocks wins prestigious Xero award Taylorcocks Win "Emerging Partner of the Year" at XeroCon http://www.taylorcocks.co.uk Taylorcocks are celebrating after being named Emerging Partner of the Year at the XeroCon Awards in October 2017 in London.The award comes after Taylorcocks successfully embarked on a project to transition clients from other software products and manual records to Xero.Taylorcocks TCVision offering is a cutting-edge suite of cloud accounting solutions that integrates Xero with a number of other powerful systems built in-house and enables clients to have a real-time view of their historic and future financial performance.The impact of combining Taylorcocks advisory services with innovative systems, such as Xero, can be life-changing for small business owners and this award highlights the value of implementing such an efficient and modern accountancy service.Richard Keyes, Managing Director of Taylorcocks, praised his staff on the progress theyve made with integrating Xero into the wider service offering, saying: This award highlights the value of delivering the efficient and modern accountancy service that Taylorcocks provides. Our team has enabled Taylorcocks clients to improve their efficiency by automating time-consuming tasks and building a platform that makes day-to-day processes simpler and easier to manage.Richard also highlighted the need to go further than improving efficiency: As a modern accountancy practice with a wide range of highly qualified professionals at our disposal, Taylorcocks has a responsibility to not only improve our clients day-to-day processes, but also to provide invaluable advice that enables our clients to improve their overall financial performance.As a leading provider of accountancy software, Xero is arguably one of the most influential organisations in the finance sector and the pressure on accountancy firms to incorporate innovative systems into their service offerings will only increase over time, as more and more business owners make the move from traditional systems to cloud solutions.Taylorcocks is already leading the way and, as a Top 100 UK firm and the Emerging Partner of the Year in 2017, it doesnt appear that this will change any time soon.Taylorcocks is an Accountancy Age Top 100 firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers specialising in the provision of bespoke, high quality accountancy and taxation solutions. Our expert knowledge and experience allows us to provide our clients with the highest quality financial solutions designed to meet the unique needs of their businesses.It is this proactive and tailored solutions approach that ensures we can meet the needs of our clients and that allows them to remain functional, compliant and, most of all, profitable. Our proactive accountancy services boost our clients bottom line and helps them to make the right decisions both now and for the future.Based across the UK, we have several locations offering excellence in accountancy solutions so we are always well resourced to handle your financial concerns in a professional, cost effective and timely fashion.Taylorcocks Chartered Accountants3 Acorn Business CentreNortharbour RoadPortsmouthPO6 3THJamie Hallitt - Marketing Manager Passenger Service System Market: Key Trends, Industry Opportunities And Projections for Upcoming Year https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=22676 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/passenger-service-system-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/22676 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Some of the key players in the global Passenger Service System (PSS) Market are Sirena-Travel JSCS, Radixx International, Inc., Hitit Computer Services A.S., Intelisys Aviation Systems Inc., Bravo Passenger Solutions Pte Ltd., Unisys Corp., Hexaware Technologies Ltd., Travelport Worldwide Ltd., SITA NV, Sabre Corp., IBS Software Services Pvt. Ltd., Information Systems Associates FZE, Amadeus IT Group SA, Travel Technology Interactive, Mercator Ltd., Travelsky Technology Ltd., and KIU System Solutions.As per a report by Transparency Market Research, the global passenger service system (PSS) market will likely expand at a robust 11.8% CAGR between 2016 and 2024 to become worth US$ 11.523 bn by 2024 from US$4.315 bn in 2015.Sample With Latest Advancements @Small and Medium Operators Propel Airline Reservation SystemDepending upon the various services offered, the global passenger service system (PSS) market can be segmented into airline inventory system, internet booking system, airline reservation system, airport management consulting, loyalty system, departure control system, ancillary services, and customer care system. Among them, the airline reservation system segment accounted for maximum share of 27.8% in 2015. Mainly driving the growth in this segment is the high uptake among medium and small airline operators.Geographically, the key segments of the global passenger service system (PSS) market are North America, South America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa. Asia Pacific, of them, is slated to expand its share at a healthy clip and contribute to the market substantially, in the forecast period. As per the TMR report, the market is Asia Pacific will likely rise at a CAGR of 13.0% between 2016 and 2024.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @Growing Number of Airline Operators Drive MarketPassenger Service System (PSS) is a clutch of solutions that enables efficient management of an airline front-end operation by managing passenger related activities. It is basically a communication system that offers services to passengers such as loyalty, customer care, online booking, reservation, and check-in and check-out status in real-time. Increasing spending capacity of the middle-class population and the rise in number of airline operators is slated to provide a fillip to the demand for passenger service system in the coming years. Passenger service system helps airline operators to quickly monetize their offering and further generate revenue from non-core assets, explains the lead analyst of the report.At present, numerous passenger service system (PSS) providers are offering non-core PSS solution such as ancillary service, loyalty system and customer care system in response to demand from airline operators. In addition, some PSS providers are also providing airport management consulting solution to satisfy demand for smart airport offering.Browse Our Table of Content @Market is at an interesting cusp where players are coming up with new platforms and new technologies to facilitate better services to customers, adds the lead analyst of the TMR report. The demand for better PSS solutions such as home tagging for luggage, presence of augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence for customer service are expected to contribute to the growth of PSS solution over the forecast period. Growing penetration of the internet is another major factor boosting the global passenger service system (PSS) market.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who us e proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR Syndicated Research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemical, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, our syndicated reports thrive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.ContactTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: Hand Hygiene Market Revenue, Opportunity, Forecast and Value Chain 2016 - 2024 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=2540 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=2540 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Global Hand Hygiene Market: OverviewWith greater acknowledgement of hand hygiene in infection control, the global market for hand hygiene is likely to display substantial advancement. Practicing hand hygiene is one of the simplest, most inexpensive yet most effective ways of preventing infections and diseases. Research in healthcare proves that cleaning ones hands thoroughly can significantly reduce the spread of germs. As a result, hand hygiene is correctly termed as a do-it-yourself vaccine.Request Report Brochure @Eating food with contaminated hands can result in contracting diseases such as staph, salmonella, e-coli, respiratory illnesses, and gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea. Cleaning hands properly can significantly reduce the risk of these contagious diseases.Global Hand Hygiene Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe increasing use of soaps, hand wash, sanitizers, rubs, and disinfectants is guiding the growth of the market. The shift from conventional soap bars to liquid hand wash, growing bacterial and pathogen infections, rising number of healthcare practitioners, and healthcare associated infections are contributing towards market growth.The initiatives of the World Health Organization (WHO), such as SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands campaign (2009), Clean Care is Safer Care program (2005-2015), and Infection Prevention and Control (2015-2017), that focus on the prevention of on-site infection among healthcare workers and patients will be successful in creating awareness about the importance of hand hygiene, thereby boosting the expansion of the market. In alignment with the aims of these programs, the WHO declared May 5 as the World Hand Hygiene Day.The U.S.-based healthcare organization, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has introduced a campaign called Clean Hands Count, which empowers patients to participate in their care by reminding or asking healthcare professionals to wash their hands. The campaign addresses the various misconceptions and myths surrounding hand hygiene.On the other hand, absence of hygiene-related training and education in several regions might slacken the growth of the market. Moreover, studies reveal that a low percentage of world population practice hand hygiene. Experts believe that the low grasp of facts about the importance of hand hygiene among people is the reason for this low percentage. However, the persistent efforts to spread awareness about the significance of hand hygiene by several international and government bodies through campaigns and programs is expected to aid the expansion of the market.Global Hand Hygiene Market: Regional OutlookBased on geography, the global hand hygiene market can be segmented into Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, and the Rest of the World (RoW). North America is likely to dominate the regional scenario as high awareness related to hand hygiene, training to healthcare professionals, and adherence of standard guidelines are guiding the growth of the hand hygiene market in this region. A number of health systems and hospitals in the U.S., such as Cedars-Sinai, Froedtert Hospital, Baptist Health, and Exempla Lutheran Medical Center, have been participating in the promotion of hand hygiene by ensuring the compliance on the part of healthcare providers through education programs, hand hygiene protocols, and stringent monitoring.Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Africa furnish considerable opportunities for growth. Implementation of hand hygiene campaigns in these developing regions is a major factor promising growth, resulting from rising awareness. WASH-in-School, a program initiated by UNICEF in China, for instance, promotes the construction of drinking water fountains and toilets in schools, in addition to promotion of hand hygiene. In India, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), in collaboration with Swach Bharat Abhiyaan campaign, has been encouraging every citizen to wash hands regularly, before eating and cooking and after using the toilet.Visit For TOC @Companies Mentioned in the ReportSome of the major companies operating in the global market for hand hygiene are Whiteley Corporation, EcoHydra, Deb Group, Kimberly-Clark, Kutol, Medline Industries, Inc., and GOJO Industries. These companies provide a wide range of hand hygiene products such as sanitizers, soaps, and hand wash.About Us Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among othersContact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: Remote Diagnostics Market: Key Trends, Industry Opportunities And Projections for Upcoming Year https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=19292 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/remote-diagnostics-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/19292 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Players in the global Remote Diagnostics Market are raising the competition bar through product differentiation and after-sales support and service to customers, notes a new publication by Transparency Market Research (TMR). Among them, Robert Bosch GmbH, Continental AG, OnStar LLC, Mercedes-Benz, Magneti Marelli S.p.A., Delphi Automotive plc, Softing AG, Voxx International Corporation, and Vector Informatik are a few key companies.A report by Transparency Market Research forecasts the global remote diagnostics market to register an impressive 14.8% CAGR between 2017 and 2025. If the figure holds true, the markets valuation of US$12.88 bn in 2016 is expected to reach US$42.04 bn by 2025.Sample With Latest Advancements @Depending upon application, the global remote diagnostics market can be segmented into roadside assistance, vehicle tracking, state alert, crash notification, and training assistance. Of these, in 2016, the segment of roadside assistance stood as the leading contributor in terms of revenue. Increasing demand for safety and security features of vehicles is the key factor stirring growth of roadside assistance segment.Early Adoption of Technology Propels North America MarketThe segments of the remote diagnostics market in terms of vehicle type are commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles. Of the two, passenger vehicles led the market in 2016 revenue-wise.The key geographical segments into which the global remote diagnostics market is divided are North America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Europe, and Latin America. North America powered by the U.S. led the market in 2016 in terms of revenue due to early adoption of technology.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @Vehicle Safety Regulations Stokes GrowthAt the forefront of driving growth in the global remote diagnostics market are strict regulations for emissions and fuel economy across the world. Government agencies issue emission standards in order to curb hazardous vehicular emissions. This is where remote monitoring systems are useful to monitor carbon and other harmful gases emitted from vehicles. In 2011, the U.S President announced an agreement with key automakers to double fuel efficiency to nearly double to 54.5 m.p.g, by means of which motorists can save fuel costs up to US$1.7 trillion over the lifespan of vehicles. While vehicular emission standards are region specific, the use of remote vehicle diagnostics ensures that vehicles discharge particulate matter within permissible limits. This factor is likely to greatly influence the remote diagnostic market during the forecast period.Browse Our Table of Content @Additionally, demand for remote vehicle diagnostics solutions is on the rise as part of technological advancement of the automotive industry. Connectivity technologies that are used in remote diagnostic solutions include Bluetooth, 3G/4G, and GPS.Another significant growth driver of the market is increasing demand for safety and security and awareness about vehicle diagnostics. This is because consumers in developed and developing countries are opting for remote diagnostics systems for four service areas, which are GPS navigation, wireless safety communication, integrated hands free cell phones, and automatic driving assistance systems. Moreover, increasing safety standards in place by governments is also responsible for the increased use of remote diagnostic systems.Concerns of Vehicle Hacking Crimps GrowthDespite several driving factors, there are several factors restraining the growth of remote diagnostic market. The key among them is concern related to data security. This is because modern vehicles are equipped with hi-tech devices to observe the status of the vehicle at all times. However, this poses risk of vehicle hacking using computer-generated information with respect to vehicle functionality and driver information.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: Nanomaterials in Cosmetic and Personal Care Market Value Share, Supply Demand, share and Value Chain 2016-2024 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=2972 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=2972 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Global Nanomaterials in Cosmetic and Personal Care Market: OverviewNanomaterials are being increasingly adopted across cosmetic and personal care industries owing to their superior physical and chemical properties. They are usually added in small quantities to enhance the performance of the base material. The majority of the nanomaterials commercially available in the market are at the nascent stage of the product lifecycle. Globally, various private organization along with government institutions are pouring large funds into research and development activities, which is resulting in the advancements of existing technologies. Therefore, the global nanomaterials in cosmetic and personal care market is likely to witness a phenomenal growth in the near future.Request Report Brochure @The research report on the global nanomaterials in cosmetic and personal care market is a professional study collated using a various number of paid and unpaid sources including presentations, white papers, and journals. It provides a detailed description of the drivers, restraints, and opportunities and the extent to which they impact the growth of the market. For a clear understanding, the report segments the market on the basis of principal material, nanomaterial preparation form, and geography. It offers quantitative and qualitative insights into the competitive landscape of the market. It profiles prominent players in the market along with their revenue generation, latest developments, business strategies, and contact information.Global Nanomaterials in Cosmetic and Personal Care Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe rising demand for anti-aging products utilizing nanocarrier delivery systems is triggering the adoption of nanomaterials in cosmetic and personal care industries. Moreover, the increasing demand for titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in the manufacturing of sun care cosmetics is working in favor of the growth of the market. The growing availability of several methods in the field of nanotechnology and the introduction of novel methods for fabricating the patterned nanostructures are providing a fillip to the growth of the market.Nanomaterials have the potential to enhance the quality of products. However, these materials can potentially be hazardous to the environment and human health and safety. The rising concerns are limiting the widespread adoption of nanomaterials in cosmetic and personal care industries. In addition, stringent regulatory scenario is hampering the growth of the market. Furthermore, the high cost of implementing nanotechnology is adversely affecting the growth of the market.Global Nanomaterials in Cosmetic and Personal Care Market: Geographical SegmentationThe regional markets analyzed in the report are North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Rest of the World. North America will be a prominent market for nanomaterials in cosmetic and personal care industries. The growth of the region can be attributed to the increasing investments in research activities and high consumer affordability. Europe will also account for a large share in the market during the forecast period. The declining prices of nanomaterials due to the escalating mass production are contributing to the growth of the region.Asia Pacific is likely to rise at a noteworthy CAGR during the same period. The booming demand for sun protection cosmetics and increasing funding by governments towards nanotechnology research are providing a significant boost to the growth of the market. The demand for nanomaterials is strong in emerging countries such as India and China.Visit For TOC @Companies Mentioned in the Report:The key players in the global nanomaterials in cosmetic and personal care market established companies in the cosmetics and personal care business including Procter and Gamble, L'Oreal, Unilever, Henkel, Avon, Kao Corp, Zelens, Johnson and Johnson, and Sircuit Cosmeceuticals.About Us Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among othersContact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: Pediatric Medical Device Market Projected To Draw a Healthy Growth By 2027 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/980 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/pediatric-medical-device-market Global Pediatric Medical Device Market Information by Application, by End Users & by Types (Infant Caps, Newborn Hearing Screener) - Forecast to 2027Market Research Future adds new report of Global Pediatric Medical Device Market Information from 2016 to 2027 it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentMarket Highlight:The Pediatric Medical Devices are such devices which are used in the treatment and care for the infants and children below 18 years having some healthcare issues. Many of the pediatric medical devices are especially designed and developed for children, but in some of the cases the adult devices are used.The market for global Pediatric Medical Device is expected to reach up to billion by the end of the forecasted period and is expected to grow at Remarkable CAGR.The major factors contributing to the market growth are; increasing in the awareness devices related to the diagnoses of baby care, increasing in the healthcare expenditure along with the growing disposable income and the new and updated technological advancements in the pediatric medical devices.Get a Sample Report @Competitive Analysis:Following are the Key Players for Pediatric Medical Device; Abbott Nutrition(U.S), GE Healthcare (U.K), Phillips Healthcare (U.S), Novamed USA, Narang Medical Limited (India), Phoenix Medical Systems (India), Pega Medical (Canada), Johnson & Johnson (U.S), Medtronic (U.S) and among othersMarket Segments:Global Pediatric Medical Device market has been segmented on the basis of applications, types, end users and their sub-types. By application which majorly include hospitals, clinics and others. Whereas by device types include infant caps, infant incubators, bili lights, newborn hearing screener, cranial orthosis, infant warmer and others. Furthermore by End user include doctors, pediatrician and othersStudy Objectives of Pediatric Medical Device Market:To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 6 years of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Pediatric Medical Device Market. To provide insights about factors affecting the market growth. To Analyze the Global Pediatric Medical Device 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. 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 applications, by types, by end users and their sub-types. 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 Pediatric Medical Device MarketBrowse Report Details @Regional Analysis of Pediatric Medical Device Market:Globally North America is the largest market for Pediatric Medical Device. The North American market for Pediatric Medical Device is expected to grow at a CAGR and is expected to reach at US$ Million by the end of the forecasted period. Europe market for Pediatric Medical Device is expected to grow at good CAGR.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Wood Furniture Market in APAC Likely to Grow at the Highest Rate During 20162022 Wood Furniture Market Analysis by Arizton Advisory & Intelligence https://www.arizton.com/reports/market-analysis/wood-furniture-market https://www.arizton.com/reports/market-analysis/wood-furniture-market https://www.arizton.com/reports/market-analysis/cutlery-market-analysis https://www.arizton.com/news/press-release/wood-furniture-market-in-apac-likely-to-grow-at-the-highest-rate-during-2016-2022 China and India are the major contributors to the revenue growth in the regionArizton Advisory & Intelligence announces the publication of its latest report, Wood Furniture Market Global Outlook and Forecast 2017 2022. The 107-page report includes an in-depth analysis of the global wood furniture market and forecast the market size of its various segment. The market is expected to cross $74 billion in terms of revenue by 2022, say the analysts at Arizton.View Report Wood Furniture Market Global Outlook and Forecast 20172022The wood furniture market in APAC is expected to grow at the highest rate during the forecast period mainly because of the high unexplored potential, improving economic conditions in the region, and increasing growth in the residential segment in this region. China and India are the major contributors to the revenue growth in the APAC region. Other countries, which are experiencing surge in the demand for wood furniture in this region, are Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. The market growth is expected to rise till 2019 after which it is likely to decline gradually and stabilize by 2025.APAC is witnessing rapid urbanization among all other geographies. According to the World Bank, the number of urban households in the region will rise by about 68% during the period 20102030. Urbanization in the APAC region is expected to drive the demand for wood furniture. The region is expected to witness an increased demand due to improving quality of life and increasing per capita disposable income during the forecast period.The annual saving ratio in APAC countries is higher than US and European countries. Emerging economies such as China, India, and Indonesia are witnessing a high growth in their GDPs, therefore, there is an increase in per capita disposable income in these countries.Changing lifestyles and increasing work pressure are some of other factors that are driving the people to adopt products that offer ease-of-use and convenience. APAC is witnessing a high growth in the number of middle-income families. These families are increasingly improving their lifestyles and adopting wood furniture. Further, the consumer market in APAC, particularly in the Southeast Asian countries is poised to grow at a tremendous rate because of increased spending power of buyers in these countries. Advances in lifestyle coupled with rising consumer expenditure are likely to increase the demand of wood furniture in APAC during the forecast period.View Report Wood Furniture Market Global Outlook and Forecast 20172022Related Reports:Cutlery Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2017 - 2022Source Link:About AriztonArizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovative and quality-driven firm, which offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients across the world. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.Arizton has gained a paramount standpoint in the market research arena as it offers top of the line solutions to clients to assess market landscape and to finalize fool-proof business strategies. We are committed to provide inclusive market research reports and consulting services to clients from diversified industries Consumer Goods & Retail Technology, Automotive and Mobility, Smart Tech, Healthcare and Lifesciences, Industrial Machinery, Chemicals and Materials, IT and Media, and Logistics and PackagingArizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered in generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.Arizton Advisory & IntelligenceChicago, Illinois, 60605Mail: enquiry@arizton.comCall: +1-312-465-7864 Medical Device Outsourcing Market : Brand Analysis and Forecast upto 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=2606 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=2606 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=2606 Global Medical Device Outsourcing Market: OverviewThe rapidly growing global population and subsequently increasing healthcare needs are working in favor of the global medical device outsourcing market. On the basis of services, the market can be segmented into product design and development services, product testing services, regulatory consulting services, product implementation services, product upgrade services, manufacturing services, and product maintenance services. Based on therapeutics, the global market can be divided into diagnostic imaging, cardiology, IVD, orthopedic, ophthalmic, drug delivery, dental, general and plastic surgery, and endoscopy.Global Medical Device Outsourcing Market: Key TrendsThe spiraling demand for advanced medical devices is paving way for the increased complexities in product engineering. This is prompting medical device manufacturers to outsource the process, which is providing a significant boost to the global medical device outsourcing market. Moreover, outsourcing helps in reducing the overall cost of manufacturing, which is encouraging manufacturers to subcontract activities such as assembling, packaging, and others.Request Sample Copy of the Report@The expanding base of geriatric population and stringent regulations pertaining to the manufacturing of medical devices are also allowing the global market to gain traction. Besides this, the lack of robust in-house manufacturing infrastructure is driving the trend of outsourcing among small and mid-size companies.Global Medical Device Outsourcing Market: Market PotentialWith the snowballing demand for cheap yet effective and advanced medical devices, a large number of OEMs are willing to work with contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs). As a result, partnerships and acquisitions have emerged as a common trend in the global medical device outsourcing market, which is also providing a tremendous momentum to the market. For instance, in October 2015, Greatbatch Inc. acquired Lake Region Medical, in a deal worth US$1.73 bn. According to industrial experts, the deal paved way for one of the most prominent outsourcing facilities for medical technology. Similarly, in June 2016, Phillips-Medisize acquired Medicom Innovation Partner. The latter specializes in the development and production of connected health and drug delivery devices. The increasing number of startups in the field of medical devices is also estimated to augment the global medical device outsourcing market.Request TOC of the Report @Global Medical Device Outsourcing Market: Geographical SegmentationOn the basis of geography, the report classifies the global medical device outsourcing market into Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. North America and Asia Pacific will collectively account for a substantial chunk in the revenue pie of the market throughout the forecast period. In Asia Pacific, the rising disposable income of the populace, improving healthcare infrastructure, and growing incidence of lifestyle-related disorders are fuelling the market. In North America, the growth of the market can be attributed to the presence of advanced manufacturing facilities for complex, reliable, and high-end medical devices. The U.S. and Canada will be major revenue contributors to the region.Global Medical Device Outsourcing Market: Competitive LandscapeWith the burgeoning demand for medical devices around the world, the market is likely to tread along a healthy growth track. The immense potential of the global medical device outsourcing market is attracting new players to foray into the marketplace. This is likely to intensify the competition in the market in the coming years. Established players are focusing on strategic collaborations and mergers to expand their product portfolio and sustain the aggressive competition in the market. Some of the prominent companies operating in the global medical devices outsourcing market are Shandong Weigao Co. Ltd., Kinetics Climax Inc., Daiichi Jitsugyo Co. Ltd., Infinity Plastics Group, GE Healthcare, Sterigenics International Inc., Mitutoyo Corp., Cirtec Medical, Omnica Corp., and Micro Systems Engineering GmbH.Get Discount @About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Does it always have to be a fight? Can parallel distribution and industry work together? www.parallel-trade.com/OPENPR www.parallel-trade.com/OPENPR http://www.smi-online.co.uk Europe's only Parallel Trade event returning to Central London next February. Not only will the next annual installment feature a packed agenda that focuses on expert-led evaluations on the United Kingdom's unprecedented vote to leave the EU which will undoubtedly cause a broad range of issues in the future, but it will also offer two carefully selected pre-conference interactive workshops taking place on Thursday 8th February 2018.Workshop A: Parallel Trade Management Strategies | 08.30 - 12.30Led by: PAREXELParallel trade in pharmaceuticals is a mature and developed business but continues to challenge manufacturers. Through interactive discussions and case reviews, this workshop will help you to address all the above challenges relating to parallel trade. You will be able to re-assess the best strategy and option suitable to your business including pricing and supply management.Workshop B: EU legal issues to be aware of in the context of parallel trade ofpharmaceutical products | 13.30 - 17.30Led by: BristowsThis workshop aims to address the issues that the pharmaceutical industry faces in protecting its SIP rights and its distribution strategies whilst at the same time remaining on the right side of competition law; as well as exploring the regulatory requirements that the parallel traders will have to comply with.Attendees will develop a better understanding of the legal issues using an interactive case study based approach which will highlight and identify the relevant matters along the way. The potential effects of Brexit will also be explored.For more information about the must-attend meeting please visit:For those interested in registering, there is currently a 400 early bird discount available for all registrations made before 31st October 2017.For media enquiries please contact Kyra Williams on +44 20 7827 6012 or email kwilliams@smi-online.co.ukFor delegate enquiries contact Fateja Begum +44 (0) 207 827 6184 or email fbegum@smi-online.co.ukFor sponsorship opportunities contact Alia Malick on +44 (0) 20 7827 6168 or email: amalick@smi-online.co.uk12th Annual Parallel Trade6th 7th February 2018Holiday Inn Kensington, London, UK#smiparalleltradeAbout SMi Group: Established since 1993, the SMi Group is a global event-production company that specializes in Business-to-Business Conferences, Workshops, Masterclasses and online Communities. We create and deliver events in the Defence, Security, Energy, Utilities, Finance and Pharmaceutical industries. We pride ourselves on having access to the worlds most forward thinking opinion leaders and visionaries, allowing us to bring our communities together to Learn, Engage, Share and Network. More information can be found at1 Westminister Bridge Road Safety Lancet Market Ready for a Record Breaking Growth of USD 2,305.1 Million by 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/550 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/safety-lancet-market-550 Global Safety Lancet Market Information, by Type (Push Button Safety Lancet, Pressure Activated Safety Lancet), by End User - Forecast to 2023Market Research Future adds new report of Safety Lancet Market Research Report - Global Forecast to 2023 it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentSafety lancet is a disposable contrivance used for collecting capillary blood samples by doctors or other medical professionals. This is an intact object to the prevention from needle injury problems. Safety lancet eradicates the injuries and infections caused by injections.Get a Sample Report @Safety Lancet Market-Overview:Various reasons are helping behind the grand success of safety lancet market. The safety lancet becomes automatically inactive after it is used once. So there is no way to use it twice. This helps the doctors to maintain proper hygiene needed for the patient as a result patients are highly demanding for the use of safety lancet which is further propelling the market growth. Safety lancet contains self-retracting needles which reduces the hazard of cross contamination and other needle related injuries. Safety lancet is created in a way that it goes slightly under the skin and pulls as much of blood is required without leaving some deep injuries inside the skin. This is a great option for those who has fear in needle, as a result hospitals are hugely adopting this safety lancet. Another aspect helping the acceptance of safety lancet in market is that this has high speed penetration which helps to abbreviate the pain which comes from regular injections. The sharp injury prevention aspect of safety lancet is expanding its market growth globally. The global market of safety lancet is projected to reach USD 2,305.1 million in 2023 from USD 1,056.2 million in 2016 with a CAGR of 11.8% during the forecast period 2017-2023.The cost of safety lancet is really high. So as a result though it is painless and hazardless people from undeveloped countries cant afford them. Countries like Africa where there is scarcity of food people cant even think about adopting this new innovative technology. Other than this another factor demolishing the market growth of safety lancet is that it is not always available. This availability problem is somehow hindering the market growth of safety lancet.Safety Lancet Market-Competitive Analysis:In 2007, GMMC chucked the LANZO lancing device and in 2011 GMMC initiated LANZO safety lancet and is recognized among the best suppliers of safety lancet in Korean market.Major contributors in this market are: F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Terumo Medical Corporation, Bayer AG, HTL-STREFA S.A., Sarstedt AG & Co., Improve Medical Technology Co. Ltd and others.Safety Lancet Market-Segmentation:Safety lancet market is segmented into 3 divisions: Segmentation by Type: Push Button Safety Lancet, Pressure Activated Safety Lancet and Side Button Safety Lancet. Segmentation by End User: Hospitals & Clinics, Diagnostic Centers and Pathology Laboratories, Home Diagnostics and Other End Users Segmentation by Region: Asia Pacific, North America and Europe.Browse Report Details @Safety Lancet Market- Regional Analysis:Asia Pacific has countries like India, China where high population is giving rise to the adoption of safety lancet. South Korea has done some huge advancement which is working as a reason behind the huge growth of safety lancet market in Asia Pacific.North America is massively contributing in the market growth of safety lancet market. Health care clinics and hospitals in US are considerably adopting this new medical technology as patients over there are highly aware about hygiene.Europe is also contributing in the market growth of safety lancet. Germany, France and Italy are embracing this safety lancet in their hospitals and clinics.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Healthcare Payer Services Market : Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast upto 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=1289 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=1289 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=1289 Global Healthcare Payer Services Market: SnapshotOutsourcing is emerging as a cost-effective tool for healthcare payers. Therefore, the growing trend of outsourcing is working in favor of the global healthcare payer services market. The increasing dependence of technologically advanced solutions to deliver economical business process services, growing popularity of digital technology, and the enforcement of strict health care regulations in several parts of the world are among the primary factors stoking the growth of the market.The growth of the market is also supplemented by the growing investments in healthcare IT (HCIT) and increasing number of private healthcare insurance companies. Moreover, the introduction of favorable policies by governments is escalating the growth of the global healthcare payer services market. On the flip side, the mounting cases of data breaches are resulting in increased skepticism regarding the loss of confidentiality, which in turn is limiting the widespread adoption of healthcare payer services. While outsourcing makes the overall procedure of healthcare payer services easy, it also induces unforeseen costs. This is, in turn, hampering the growth of the global market.Request Sample Copy of the Report@The majority of key players in the global healthcare payer services market are focusing towards implementing mobile technology with health plans to lure in a greater number of customers. A raft of large players are also emphasizing on mergers and acquisitions in order to stay ahead in the market.Global Healthcare Payer Services Market: OverviewThe healthcare industry is at an interesting cusp at present with breakthrough technologies, practices, and services. This also translates as higher costs of treatment and consumer empowerment with digital transformation. Besides, tough regulations and better reimbursement policies are also transforming the contours of the industry. This has spawned the global healthcare payer services market which is primed for robust growth on account of the above factors. Major players operating in the market are focused on mergers and acquisitions to diversify business portfolio and improve delivery outcomes.Request TOC of the Report @In healthcare, payer refers to entities other than the patient that finance or reimburse the healthcare services cost. Typically, they include insurance carriers, third-party payers, or health plan sponsors such as employers or unions. Application of payer services include management services, provider management services, billing and accounts management services, integrated front office services and back office operations, member management services, analytics and fraud management services, and HR services. The types of payer services available in the market are BPO services, ITO services, and KPO services. Among them, the BPO services gross maximum revenue.A report by TMR Research offers essential information on the key trends in the global healthcare payer services market. It presents a granular analysis of the various growth drivers and restraints in the market. The report also presents a detailed assessment of the competitive landscape and identifies key players contributing towards its growth. Further, it leverages market-leading analytical tools to gauge the opportunities and threats awaiting players.Get Discount @Global Healthcare Payer Services Market: Trends and OpportunitiesSome of the factors at the forefront of driving the global healthcare payer services market are increased adoption of technologies particularly digital technology to bring about economical business process services, growing focus on consumerism, and a host of healthcare regulatory policies. No wonder then, tech titans are some of the main players in the market. They are increasingly integrating mobility and health plans to engage enrolled members.Other factors helping the markets growth are the increasing private healthcare insurance exchanges and IT investments. The pressing demand to bring down the overall administrative costs of member management services, rising need for cost effective solutions for the healthcare payer services, and the alarming instances of healthcare fraud cases are few things expected to shape the course of the market in the near future.At present, the private payers are ahead of the public payers in the global market for healthcare payer services. This is because of the massive investment by private players in the healthcare payer vertical and significant government efforts to induce private investment in the healthcare industry. Public payers, however, are slated to clock solid growth in the years ahead.Global Healthcare Payer Services Market: Regional OutlookGeographically, North America holds a dominant position in the global market for healthcare payer services at present, powered mainly by the U.S. This is because of the rising number of health insurance enrollment, helpful reimbursement framework, and dearth of skilled professionals. Besides North America, Asia Pacific is another emerging market that holds out a strong promise of growth. In fact, India, an emerging economy in the region, is a global market leader in the knowledge process outsourcing (KPO). China and Japan in the region are also slated to contribute substantially to the market. In the Rest of the World, Mexico and Brazil are shining stars poised to impact the global market growth.Companies Mentioned in the ReportSome of the prominent companies competing in the global market for healthcare payer services, profiled in the report are Cognizant Technology Solutions, Accenture plc, Xerox Corporation, Genpact Limited, Hewlett-Packard, Hexaware Technologies Limited, HCL Technologies Ltd., Teleperformance Group, Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd., and Wipro Limited.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Neurostimulation Devices Market Demonstrates Enormous Growth of USD 11.5 Billion by 2022 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2263 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/neurostimulation-devices-market-2263 Market Research Future adds new report of Neurostimulation Devices Market Research Report- Global Forecast To 2022 it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentCompetitive Analysis:Some of the key players in this market are: Autonomic Technologies, Boston Scientific, ElectroCore, ImThera Medical, Inspire Medical Systems, LivaNova (Cyberonics), Medtronic, NeuroMetrix, NeuroPace, Neuros Medical, NeuroSigma, Nevro Corporation, SPR Therapeutics, St.Jude Medical, Synapse Biomedical, and others.Get a Sample Report @Market Segments:Neurostimulation devices market has been segmented on the basis of type which comprises implantable devices, and external devices. Implantable devices include deep brain stimulators, spinal cord stimulators, sacral nerve stimulators, gastric electric stimulators, cochlear implants, and vagus nerve stimulators; whereas external devices include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator, and transcranial magnetic stimulator. On the basis of application, the market is segmented into dystonia, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, depression, gastroparesis, pain management, tremors, urinary and fecal incontinence, and others. On the basis of end user, market is segmented into hospitals/clinics, cognitive care centers, research institutes and others.Market Highlight:Neurostimulation is a modulation of the nervous systems activity. It is deliberately carried out by using invasive and non-invasive techniques. Implantable stimulation devices are most commonly used in the treatment of the neurological conditions such as epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, dystonia, tremors, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, diabetic neuropathy and few other conditions. Increasing cases of the neurological disorders such as chronic pain and depression high adoption of the Neurostimulation therapy are likely to improve the market of Neurostimulation devices. Globally, this market is growing steadily and it is anticipated to show an exponential growth reaching approximately $11.5 billion in 2022.Study Objectives of Neurostimulation Devices Market:To provide detail analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 7 years about various segments and sub-segments of the Neurostimulation devices market. To provide insights about factors affecting the market growth. To analyze the market based on price analysis, supply chain analysis, Porters Five Force analysis etc. To provide historical and forecast revenue of the markets 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 growth prospect. To provide country level analysis of the markets segments by type, by application, by end user and its sub-segments.Browse Report Details @Regional Analysis of Neurostimulation devices Market:Considering the global scenario of the market, Americas region is believed to be the largest market for Neurostimulation devices. Moreover, the European market is also growing continuously and slowly catching up with the American market. On the other hand, Asia-Pacific market is expected to grow at the fastest pace in the Neurostimulation devices segment during the forecast period. Middle East & Africa region are likely to have a limited but steady growth in the market.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Garreco receives Arkansas Governor's Quality Award The Garreco Team (From left: Lauren Acklin, Marketing; Samantha Clark, Assistant Production Manager; Kristofer Mainar, Quality Ass www.arkansas-quality.org Heber Springs, Arkansas (September 12, 2017) Garreco, LLC was recognized with the Challenge Award during the 23rd Annual Arkansas Governor's Quality Awards Celebration, administered and presented by the Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence. The Awards Celebration was held at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Little Rock. More than 300 business and civic leaders from throughout Arkansas attended the celebration. Garreco was one of 28 recipients to receive a Quality Award, but was the only dental manufacturer honored on Tuesday night.The Governors Quality Award is based on the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. The goal of the Governors Quality Award Program is to encourage Arkansas organizations to engage in continuous quality improvement, which leads to performance excellence, and to provide significant recognition to those organizations.Created as a not-for-profit organization, the program is dedicated to assist in building a strong infrastructure for Arkansas businesses. That dedication is reflected in the programs vision to be a catalyst for excellence in organizational performance. The Governors Quality Award program partners with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce.The Chairman of the Board of the Governors Quality Award program is Chris Weiser, president of JV Manufacturing in Springdale. Organizations and companies interested in participating in the program should contact Governors Quality Award Executive Director Sue Weatter with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce by calling 501-372-2222 or go toGarreco is the only manufacturer of dental gypsum in the state of Arkansas. The company manufactures a complete line of ADA/ISO Standard dental gypsums and plasters used by dentists and laboratory technicians for model making and casting to create dental restorations. In addition to gypsum, Garreco also offers dental abrasives, acrylics, silicones, and laboratory supplies from their facility in Heber Springs, AR. Garrecos quality management system is 13485:2003 ISO certified for the manufacturing, sale and distribution of medical devices. To learn more about the company, please visit Garreco.com.430 Hiram RoadHeber Springs, Arkansas 72543 Global Biosensors Market 2017-Facilitate Decision-Making Based on Strong Historic and Forecast Data 2024 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2316587-global-biosensors-market-outlook-2024-global-opportunity-and-demand-analysis-market SUMMARYWiseGuyReports published new report, titled Global Biosensors Market OutlookMarket OverviewBiosensors are increasingly penetrating medical, environmental, food process, and biodefense application markets. Development in nanotechnology is revolutionizing the biosensors market across the globe. Chronic health disease rate is increasing day by day. Over 75% of healthcare spending of US is invested in the treatment of chronic health issues. Around 35% of U.S. population is suffering from heart disease. This is impelling the need of advance medical facilities to reduce health issues. Biosensors are proving as an alternative which can transform the clinical analysis and healthcare diagnostics.Governments are taking initiatives for the development of micro fluidics, human genome project and bioscience. Innovative approach towards genetic analysis and protein detection is leading the expansion of biosensor applications in medical industry which is expected to impel the growth of global biosensor market. For instance, a non-profit association, Max-Planck Institute collaborated together with Federal Government of Germany to implement improvisation and expansion of existing healthcare infrastructure. Also, National Information and Communication Technology Australia (NICTA) are investing in research & development activities for the development of embedded systems which can be used in biosensor industry. Major players of IT industry are extensively investing in healthcare industry. Rising penetration of IT healthcare is bolstering the demand for connected healthcare devices which boost the growth of biosensors market.GET SAMPLE REPORT @Market SegmentationThe global biosensors market is segmented on the following basis: Based on Product Typeo Wearable Biosensorso Non-wearable Biosensors Based on Technologyo Electrochemicalo Piezoelectric Biosensorso Optical Biosensorso Thermal Biosensorso Others(Nano-mechanical, etc) Based on Applicationo Medical Testingo Food & Beverage Toxicity Testingo Environment Monitoringo Bioreactor Testingo Agriculture Testing Based on End-Usero Healthcare Sectoro Defense Sectoro Food & Beverages Industryo Agriculture SectorMarket Size and Forecast (2016-2024)Advancement in biosensors technology is one of the major factor which is rising the popularity of biosensor based smart healthcare devices. Rising number of heart diseases and diabetic patients in the U.S. is increasing the adoption of advance devices at an early stage. The U.S. generated a 75% revenue share of in North America biosensors market in 2016. Adoption of advanced medical infrastructure and huge investment in pharmaceutical research is augmenting biosensors market in the region. Global biosensors market was valued at USD 15.85 billion in 2016 and is estimated to reach USD 28.67 billion by 2024, with a CAGR of 7.68% during the forecast period i.e. 2016-2024.Electrochemical biosensor technology is the dominating segment based on technology and is expected to surpass USD 20 billion by the end of 2024. Electrochemical biosensors contributed over 70% market share in technology segment 2016. Also, optical biosensors technology segment is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 8.35% during the forecast period. Wide range of sensors used in monitoring and detection of severe health conditions mainly diabetes and cancer treatment is boosting the growth of global biosensors market. Medical testing application is expected to acquire nearly 70% of revenue share of global biosensors market by the end of 2024. Rising sectors of agriculture testing and toxicity testing in food industry is expected to spur the demand for biosensors over the next five to six years. Point of Care (PoC) testing is the largest market medical testing segmentation of biosensors. Point of Care (PoC) testing is projected to witness lucrative growth, expanding at a CAGR of 7.0% over the forecast period i.e. 2016-2024. Accuracy in testing and detection of health condition is anticipated to drive the popularity and adoption rate of home healthcare diagnostics.Rising health awareness and improvement in health care facilities is contributing to the expansion of biosensors market in Asia-Pacific region. Asia Pacific biosensors market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.8% over the forecast period i.e. 2016 to 2024. In Europe region, inclination towards healthy lifestyle and acceptance towards technologically advanced medical products by patients are some of the driving factors which are expanding the growth of Europe biosensors market. High capital venturing in research & development in medical industry is improving the quality of biosensors which leads to generate more demand for biosensors in healthcare industry. Countries such as Sweden, France and Germany have high rate of adoption of biosensors as compared to other European countries.Market Drivers and ChallengesMarket DriversHuge investment in research & development of medical sector is one of the primary growth factors for global biosensors market. Rise in personal disposable income, increasing health awareness and inclination towards quality treatment are some key factors which are triggering the demand for biosensors across the globe. Wide adoption rate of home blood glucose monitoring mainly for diabetic patients is a key driving factor for the positive growth of biosensors market. Emerging trend of using user-friendly compact biosensors is raising the adoption rate of wearable biosensors. Rise in chronic health issues and cardiovascular diseases are raising awareness among consumers to incline towards sensitive testing biosensors. Technological advancement in micro-fluids and expansion point of care testing device is also contributing to the expansion of global biosensors market.ChallengesHigh initial investment in the manufacturing and development of biosensors is the key challenge which is prohibiting the market growth. Miniaturization, sensitivity and variation of readout times in sensors are some major technical obstacles which are hindering the growth of biosensors market. Short life span of bio-molecules used in sensors and expensive manufacturing is limiting the investment from manufacturers.Key Findings: In February 2012, Qualcomm and Orange a telecommunication corporation partnered together to develop innovative solutions for remote monitoring of patients. The company is developing remote services and solutions for chronic health conditions by the use of mobile technology. These solutions are targeting to save healthcare spending nearly USD 180 billion in US over the next 20 years In June 2012, Sorin Group a medical device company and Orange Business Services together launched a product name SMARTVIEW which is capable of remotely monitoring the patients with cardiac rhythm management (CRM) implantation. This solution is launched in several countries in Europe.Key Market Players Medtronic, Inc. Synopsis Business Strategy Product Portfolio SWOT Analysis Abbott Point of Care Inc. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. Nova Biomedical Corporation Siemens Healthcare GE Healthcare Innovative Biosensors Inc. Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc...CONTINUEDWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Research 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 Blind Spot Detection (BSD) System and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) System Market Value Share, Supply Demand, share and Value Chain 2014-2020 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=3443 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=3443 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Blind Spot Detection (BSD) system is a sensor based detection system implemented in automobiles that is used for monitoring vehicles at the rear and side of the driver/vehicle. Such systems generate tactile, audible, vibrating or visual form of warnings. They also assist the driver at the parking lots when there are other vehicles approaching from the sides. Blind spots are caused due to various objects such as passengers, headrests and window pillars. Mirrors are generally used to remove the blind spots but the disadvantage being that they leave huge dead on all the sides of the vehicle. BSD systems, with the help of cameras and sensor systems generate information about various objects that are outside the range of drivers vision.Request Report Brochure @Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is a sensor based cruise control system that automatically adjusts the speed of the vehicle in maintaining safe distances from the vehicles ahead. Such a system is integrated with pre-crash systems and automatically applies brakes after generating alerts. BSD and ACC systems have become efficient, sophisticated and advanced over a period of time and play an important role in reducing the number of accidents.The rising number of accidents due to increase in traffic flow is one of the prime reason that is contributing to the growth of BSD and ACC system market. The implementation of such safety systems by the automobile industry has rapidly increased. Since BSD and ACC systems ensure safety of the passengers, customers are frequently looking for such advanced safety features and are also willing to pay. Another factor that is contributing to the growth of this market is the stiff competition among the automobile manufacturers. The manufacturers are continuously upgrading their models so as to cater to the huge demand of innovative safety features that can be used for various applications. Organizations such as New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), are investing in research and development to design automobiles possessing various safety features. The increasing use of sensors due to the advancements in technology is another factor that is contributing to the growth of this market. Sensors are integrated with BSD and ACC systems to increase the performance of engines by reducing carbon emissions. Government initiatives for fuel efficiencies and safety attributes of the vehicle are encouraging manufacturers to implement such integrated systems that can ensure safety as well as comply with such regulations.However, BSD and ACC systems are not efficient in regions with adverse weather conditions. Regions with continuous snowfall and rainfall make such safety systems inefficient in tracking and monitoring the surrounding objects. This makes the owners of such regions reluctant in implementing these systems. Another challenge to the growth of this market is the standardization of such systems. Since every manufacturer competes for offering unique safety features, each manufacturer integrates high-tech sensors having different applications. Such integrations make car owners difficult and confusing to understand the exact operating procedures for different car models. Hence, due to the technicality involved, the car owners are reluctant to install innovative safety systems.Visit For TOC @To overcome such technical barriers to the market growth, the vendors are taking initiatives that can address to such flaws. For instance, Autoliv Inc, One of the key players in this market, in August, 2014, announced a new operating structure that shall discuss their safety products and the methods of usage. The key players in the market include Denso Corporation, Delphi Automotive PLC, Magna International Inc., Mando Corporation, Valeo SA and TRW Automotive.About Us Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among othersContact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: Thermal Management Technologies Market : Evolving Market Trends & Dynamics 2025 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=395 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=395 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=395 Global Thermal Management Technologies Market: SnapshotThe electronics industry has witnessed a sea change in terms of underpinning technologies and the way they are integrated in the past couple of years. In most cases, this has upped the total power consumed by the devices which seem to be getting smaller by the day. This has necessitated heat density management through the development of effective heat management technologies.At present, high-performance heat spreader systems that leverage multi-phase cooling in place of alloy-based heat spreaders is one of the most researched areas in the field of thermal management technologies. There is also substantial ongoing research in fabrication or discovery of structures and materials capable of providing notable decline in the thermal resistance of the thermal interface layer between the back layers of electronic devices, which could be a heatsink.Request Sample Copy of the Report@The global thermal management technologies market is choc-a-bloc with players and no single player enjoys dominance over the market. From a geographical standpoint, Asia Pacific is the primary contributor to the revenue in the market on account of the presence of some of the global electronic majors in nations such as Japan, South Korea, and China. Europe is another key market owing to a robust electronic manufacturing and research and development facilities in nations of Germany and the US. The EU regulations requiring the use of thermal interface in electronic devices is also said to be driving the market in the continent. Add to that increasing concerns about the rising ranks of discerning consumers about the environment and what you have is further focus on the development of environment-friendly heat management materials.Global Thermal Management Technologies Market: OverviewThe electronics industry has seen significant enhancements in technologies, system integration, and fundamental materials used to manufacture elemental structures in the past few years. This has led to a rapid rise in the total power consumed by the device, which, in several cases, are seeing a rapid reduction in size. Supplying high power to such devices, with electronic parts crammed in small packages, make the issue of heat density management even worse for the industry. This has increased the industrys focus on the development of efficient heat management technologies.Request TOC of the Report @This report on the global thermal management technologies market covers the state of research and development activities undertaken in this area and their influence on the electronics industry as seen in the past few years. A detailed overview of the thermal management technologies markets present growth dynamics and several forward-looking statements predicting the growth prospects of the market and its key segments over the period between 2017 and 2025.Global Thermal Management Technologies Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe development of high-performance heat spreader systems which use multi-phase cooling in place of alloy-based heat spreaders in conventional systems is presently one of the most researched areas in the field of thermal management technologies. Research efforts in the area so far have led to the development of technologies such as cold plates, jet impingement, and heat vapor chambers. Research is also underway in fabrication/discovery of structures and materials capable of providing notable decline in the thermal resistance of the thermal interface layer between the back layers of electronic devices, which could be a heatsink.Get Discount @Of the key components of a typical thermal management solution, namely thermal management hardware, thermal management interface product, thermal management software, and thermal management substrates, the hardware segment is presently the leading contributor of revenue to the global market. The rising demand for compact microprocessors is expected to enable the hardware segment lead over the next few years as well.The segment of thermal management interfaces is also expected to see demand rise at a promising incremental pace over the reports forecast period. The rising implementation of thermal management interfaces in automated machineries and portable and miniaturized computing devices such as smartphones and tablet computers will be the key to healthy growth prospects of the thermal management interface segment.Global Thermal Management Technologies Market: Geographical and Competitive DynamicsFrom a geographic perspective, the report presents an analytical overview of the thermal management technologies market for regional markets such as North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Middle East and Africa. Of these, Asia Pacific is expected to be the leading contributor of revenue to the global market over the forecast period. The presence of some of the worlds leading electronic companies in countries such as South Korea, China, and Japan will further strengthen the demand prospects for thermal management technologies in the region over the forecast period.Europe, with the large number of electronic manufacturing and R&D facilities in countries such as the UK and Germany, is also expected to see a rise in use of thermal management technologies in the near future. The Europe market is also expected to thrive due to stringent EU regulations necessitating the use of thermal interface in electronic devices. The heightened consumer awareness about environment sustenance is expected to lead to an increased focus on the development of environment-friendly heat management materials in the near future.It has been found that the global thermal management technologies market features an exceedingly fragmented competitive landscape, wherein no leading player accounts for a major share in the global markets revenue- or value-wise valuation. Some of the markets leading players are Honeywell International, LairdTech, Alcatel-Lucent, Pentair Thermal Management, Thermacore, Heatex, Aavid Thermalloy, Advanced Cooling Technologies, Thermal Management Technologies, Sapa Group, and Honeywell International.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.com Personal Identity Management Market Analysis, Evolution, Size, Share, Growth, Industry Trends and Forecast 2015 - 2023 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/1345417 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/enquiry/1345417 Personal Identity Management (PIM) refers to the rules, standards and algorithms by which individuals and any organization controls share and use confidential information with other individuals and organizations. As the people are increasingly leaving their digital footmarks across various media and channels, the companies are able to leverage this data to as a part of their marketing strategy (for targeted marketing) or for verification and monitoring applications. This however violates the privacy and relevant rights of individuals, giving rise to demand for security solutions, which allow users/customers to manage the digital footprints created by them as part of daily internet based activities.Request For Sample Copy Of Report :In personal identity management, people can create policies stating out to any organization commitment to storing only those data which is needed and trying to keep those data safe to the best of its ability. PIM opposes the third party user in gaining access to all the private data and information without the consent of the actual user. In this way it puts controls over the management of their identities.One of the main factors which are boosting the market growth is the cyber crime which is gradually increasing with the advanced communications in various information technology sectors. Companies are looking for various ways to stop the cyber crime which includes hacking, virus/worms, bank robbery, pornography, credit card frauds, etc. Governments too have framed laws and regulations pertaining to personal data security and cyber crime, which are playing prominent role in increasing the importance of this market in various sectors. The prime application of personal identity management can be seen in banking sector where the information of the account holder is the most important confidential thing that the banks have to keep secured. Also, this market is playing a key role in providing data management services to various firms who are in marketing field where commitment to data security is very important for gaining trust.Send An Enquiry :Personal identity management can be divided based on data type into behavioral data, individual identity data, derived data and self-identified data. Behavioral data comprises of web browsing history, transactional data and location data. Individual identity data has user full name, driving license number, credit card number, date of birth and IP address. Derived data consists of methodically modeled attributes such as credit score, propensity and personas. Self identified data includes user prepared data like product views, purchase intent, social media likes, LinkedIn groups and Quora responses. Geographically, this market has strong global presence, with Asia Pacific emerging as fast growing market whereas North America and Europe seeing relatively higher maturity due to developed regulatory and technical infrastructure.One of the major drawbacks in designing such kind of systems is their complex programming which needs professionals with high level of consumer intelligence in order to meet the desired level of safety of personal data and information. Further, the users have to remember various usernames and passwords in order to gain access to their own information while working on various applications. The opportunity of this market lies in various public complexes (hyper and super markets), tourist places, museum and education institutes and science labs which are vulnerable to terrorist attacks happening around the world. The key players of this market are Acxiom Inc., Azigo Inc., Bluekai Inc., Experian Inc., Merkle. Inc., Mydex Data Services.Inc., Signature Systems Inc., McAfee Inc., Quick Heal Technologies (P) Ltd., and Kaspersky Lab.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 PacificEuropeRest of the WorldThis 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.Reasons for Buying this ReportThis report provides pin-point analysis for changing competitive dynamicsIt provides a forward looking perspective on different factors driving or restraining market growthIt provides a six-year forecast assessed on the basis of how the market is predicted to growIt helps in understanding the key product segments and their futureIt provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitorsIt helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segmentsIt provides distinctive graphics and exemplified SWOT analysis of major market segmentsMRRbiz supports your business intelligence needs with over 700,000 market research reports, company profiles, data books, and regional market data sheets in its repository. Our document database is updated by the hour, which means that you always have access to fresh data spanning over 300 industries and their sub-segments.State Tower90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948(USA-Canada)Tel: +1-518-621-2074E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Global Food Extruders Market Research Report 2017 - Buhler, Akron Tool & Die, Baker Perkins, Coperion, Lindquist Machine, Pavan SPA, Kahl Group, Triott Group, Flexicon Food Extruders Market https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1336456 https://www.researchmoz.us/global-food-extruders-market-research-report-2017-report.html https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1336456 http://www.researchmoz.us/ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Food Extruders Market Research Report 2017" to its huge collection of research reports.In this report, the global Food Extruders 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 Food Extruders in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Global Food Extruders market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingBuhlerAkron Tool & DieBaker PerkinsCoperionLindquist MachinePavan SPAKahl GroupTriott GroupFlexiconGroupe Legris IndustriesThe Bonnot CompanyAmerican Extrusion InternationalOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoSingle Screw ExtrudersTwin Screw ExtrudersContra Twin Screw ExtrudersOn 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 Food Extruders for each application, includingSavory SnacksBreakfast CerealsBreadFlours & StarchesTextured ProteinFunctional IngredientsOthersBrowse Detail Report With TOC @Table of ContentsGlobal Food Extruders Market Research Report 20171 Food Extruders Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Food Extruders1.2 Food Extruders Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Food Extruders Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Food Extruders Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Single Screw Extruders1.2.4 Twin Screw Extruders1.2.5 Contra Twin Screw Extruders1.3 Global Food Extruders Segment by Application1.3.1 Food Extruders Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Savory Snacks1.3.3 Breakfast Cereals1.3.4 Bread1.3.5 Flours & Starches1.3.6 Textured Protein1.3.7 Functional Ingredients1.3.8 Others1.4 Global Food Extruders Market by Region (2012-2022)1.4.1 Global Food Extruders Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Food Extruders (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Food Extruders Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Food Extruders Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)2 Global Food Extruders Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Food Extruders Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Food Extruders Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Food Extruders Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Food Extruders Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Food Extruders Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.4 Manufacturers Food Extruders Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Food Extruders Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Food Extruders Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Food Extruders Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion3 Global Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2012-2017)3.1 Global Food Extruders Capacity and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.2 Global Food Extruders Production and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.3 Global Food Extruders Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.4 Global Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.5 North America Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.6 Europe Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.7 China Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.8 Japan Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.9 Southeast Asia Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.10 India Food Extruders Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)4 Global Food Extruders Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Region (2012-2017)4.1 Global Food Extruders Consumption by Region (2012-2017)4.2 North America Food Extruders Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.3 Europe Food Extruders Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.4 China Food Extruders Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.5 Japan Food Extruders Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.6 Southeast Asia Food Extruders Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.7 India Food Extruders Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)5 Global Food Extruders Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type5.1 Global Food Extruders Production and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)5.2 Global Food Extruders Revenue and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)5.3 Global Food Extruders Price by Type (2012-2017)5.4 Global Food Extruders Production Growth by Type (2012-2017)6 Global Food Extruders Market Analysis by Application6.1 Global Food Extruders Consumption and Market Share by Application (2012-2017)6.2 Global Food Extruders Consumption Growth Rate by Application (2012-2017)6.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities6.3.1 Potential Applications6.3.2 Emerging Markets/CountriesContinue...Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.ResearchMozState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @ Global Market Study on Thermoformed Plastic Products in Food & Beverages Industry. MRRSE http://www.mrrse.com/sample/2616 http://www.mrrse.com/food-and-beverages-industry-thermoformed-plastic-products-market https://plus.google.com/u/0/109558601025749677847/posts https://www.linkedin.com/company/mrrse https://twitter.com/MRRSEmrrse Albany, New York, October 17, 2017: Market Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) has included a new study titled, Food & Beverages -Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2016 2024.Persistence Market Research analyzes the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market over an eight year period from 2016 to 2024 in a newly published report. The study demonstrates market dynamics and trends across regions that are expected to influence the current status and future prospects of the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market over the forecast period (2016 - 2024). The primary objective of the report is to offer information on market drivers, restraints, trends, opportunities, and value chain analysis; and updates on developments in the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market. The report conducts a quantitative as well as qualitative assessment of the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market across product types, application, and regional market segments.Request Sample Reports :The report starts with a market overview and provides market definition and analysis of the drivers, restraints, and key trends influencing the market. Impact analysis of key growth drivers based on the weighted average model is included to better equip clients with useful decision-making insights. The subsequent sections analyze the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market by product type, application, and region. For market data analysis, the report considers 2015 as the base year, with market numbers estimated for 2016 and a comprehensive forecast made for the period 20172024.The final section of the report presents a competitive landscape of the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market to provide report audiences with a dashboard view of leading market players operating in the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market, along with information on their market performance, SWOT analysis, and key business strategies. Some of the top market players featured in the report include Clear Lam Packaging, Inc., D&W FINE PACK, HUHTAMAKI GROUP, Placon, Anchor Packaging Inc., Berry Plastics Corporation, Reynolds, Silgan Holdings Inc., and Tray-Pak Corporation.Research methodologyTo calculate the market size, the report considers sales of thermoformed plastic products in the F&B industry on a country and regional level, which are then added to reach the global market size. The forecast assesses the total revenue of the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market on the basis of various factors that are expected to affect the market in the short and long term. The data is triangulated on the basis of different verticals, considering both supply side and demand side drivers and other dynamics of the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market, along with primary interviews of manufacturers and industry experts active across the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market value chain. The report begins by sizing up the current market, which forms the basis for forecasting how the market is anticipated to take shape during the forecast period. Given the ever-fluctuating nature of the global economy, the report presents forecasts not only in terms of CAGR, but also analyzes the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market on the basis of key parameters such as Year-on-Year (Y-o-Y) growth to understand market predictability and to identify the right opportunities in the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market.Browse Full Report with TOC :The report also analyzes the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market segments in terms of Basis Point Share (BPS) to understand individual segments relative contribution to market growth. This detailed level of information is important to identify the many trends governing the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market. Another key feature of this report is a comprehensive analysis of the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market revenue forecast in terms of absolute dollar opportunity, critical in assessing the level of opportunity that a provider can look to achieve, as well as to identify potential resources from a sales perspective in the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market. In order to understand key growth segments in terms of growth and performance of the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market, Persistence Market Research has also developed a market attractiveness index to help providers identify real market opportunities in the global F&B thermoformed plastic products market.About UsContactMarket Research Reports Search Engine(MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of market intelligence reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting.State Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY - 12207United StatesTelephone: +1-518-730-0559Email: sales@mrrse.comGoogle+:Linked in:Twitter: Global and United States Network Line In-Depth Research Report 2017-2022 - COMMSCOPE, Legrand, Siemon, DATWYLER, Schneider, POTEVIO, Panduit, Nexans, DTT United States Network Line https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1304052 https://www.researchmoz.us/global-and-united-states-network-line-in-depth-research-report-2017-2022-report.html https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1304052 http://www.researchmoz.us/ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global and United States Network Line In-Depth Research Report 2017-2022" to its huge collection of research reports.The report is based on the market historical data from 2012 to 2016 and forecast the market trend from 2017 to 2022.This report focuses on the U.S. market and presents volume and value of market share by players, by regions, by product type, by consumers and also changes in prices. As an in-depth report, it covers all details inside analysis and opinions in Network Line industry.Major CompaniesCOMMSCOPE(US)Legrand(France)Siemon(US)DATWYLER(Switzerland)Schneider(France)POTEVIO(China)Panduit(US)Nexans(France)DTT(China)Rosenberger(Germany)Nippon Seisen Cable,Co;Ltd(Japan)AMP(US)TSINGHUA TONGFANG(China)LEVITON(US)GENERAL(US)Belden(US)SHIP(China)YOFC(China)To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Key RegionsNorth AmericaUnited StatesCaliforniaTexasNew YorkOthersCanadaLatin AmericaMexicoBrazilArgentinaOthersEuropeGermanyUnited KingdomFranceItalySpainRussiaNetherlandOthersAsia & PacificChinaJapanIndiaKoreaAustraliaSoutheast AsiaIndonesiaThailandPhilippinesVietnamSingaporeMalaysiaOthersAfrica & Middle EastSouth AfricaEgyptTurkeySaudi ArabiaIranOthersMain types of productsNetwork Line Market, by Network Line ClassificationTwisted PairCoaxial CableOptical CableNetwork Line Market, by MaterialPure CopperAluminum WireCopper Clad Aluminum WireIron WireOtherNetwork Line Market, by Network Line QualityThree LinesFive LinesSuper Five LinesSix LinesNetwork Line Market, by Key ConsumersHome UseCommercial UseBrowse Detail Report With TOC @Table of ContentsGlobal and United States Network Line In-Depth Research Report 2017-2022Chapter One Global Network Line Market Overview1.1 Global Network Line Market Sales Volume Revenue and Price 2012-20171.2 Network Line, by Network Line Classification 2012-20171.2.1 Global Network Line Sales Market Share by Network Line Classification 2012-20171.2.2 Global Network Line Revenue Market Share by Network Line Classification 2012-20171.2.3 Global Network Line Price by Network Line Classification 2012-20171.2.4 Twisted Pair1.2.5 Coaxial Cable1.2.6 Optical Cable1.3 Network Line, by Material 2012-20171.3.1 Global Network Line Sales Market Share by Material 2012-20171.3.2 Global Network Line Revenue Market Share by Material 2012-20171.3.3 Global Network Line Price by Material 2012-20171.3.4 Pure Copper1.3.5 Aluminum Wire1.3.6 Copper Clad Aluminum Wire1.3.7 Iron Wire1.3.8 Other1.4 Network Line, by Network Line Quality 2012-20171.4.1 Global Network Line Sales Market Share by Network Line Quality 2012-20171.4.2 Global Network Line Revenue Market Share by Network Line Quality 2012-20171.4.3 Global Network Line Price by Network Line Quality 2012-20171.4.4 Three Lines1.4.5 Five Lines1.4.6 Super Five Lines1.4.7 Six LinesChapter Two United States Network Line Market Overview2.1 United States Network Line Market Sales Volume Revenue and Price 2012-20172.2 Network Line, by Network Line Classification 2012-20172.2.1 United States Network Line Sales Market Share by Network Line Classification 2012-20172.2.2 United States Network Line Revenue Market Share by Network Line Classification 2012-20172.2.3 United States Network Line Price by Network Line Classification 2012-20172.2.4 Twisted Pair2.2.5 Coaxial Cable2.2.6 Optical Cable2.3 Network Line, by Material 2012-20172.3.1 United States Network Line Sales Market Share by Material 2012-20172.3.2 United States Network Line Revenue Market Share by Material 2012-20172.3.3 United States Network Line Price by Material 2012-20172.3.4 Pure Copper2.3.5 Aluminum Wire2.3.6 Copper Clad Aluminum Wire2.3.7 Iron Wire2.3.8 Other2.4 Network Line, by Network Line Quality 2012-20172.4.1 United States Network Line Sales Market Share by Network Line Quality 2012-20172.4.2 United States Network Line Revenue Market Share by Network Line Quality 2012-20172.4.3 United States Network Line Price by Network Line Quality 2012-20172.4.4 Three Lines2.4.5 Five Lines2.4.6 Super Five Lines2.4.7 Six LinesChapter Three Network Line by Regions 2012-20173.1 Global Network Line Sales Market Share by Regions 2012-20173.2 Global Network Line Revenue Market Share by Regions 2012-20173.3 Global Network Line Price by Regions 2012-20173.4 North America3.4.1 United States3.4.1.1 California3.4.1.2 Texas3.4.1.3 New York3.4.1.4 Others in United States3.4.2 Canada3.5 Latin America3.5.1 Mexico3.5.2 Brazil3.5.3 Argentina3.5.4 Others in Latin America3.6 Europe3.6.1 Germany3.6.2 United Kingdom3.6.3 France3.6.4 Italy3.6.5 Spain3.6.6 Russia3.6.7 Netherland3.6.8 Others in Europe3.7 Asia & Pacific3.7.1 China3.7.2 Japan3.7.3 India3.7.4 Korea3.7.5 Australia3.7.6 Southeast Asia3.7.6.1 Indonesia3.7.6.2 Thailand3.7.6.3 Philippines3.7.6.4 Vietnam3.7.6.5 Singapore3.7.6.6 Malaysia3.7.6.7 Others in Southeast Asia3.8 Africa & Middle East3.8.1 South Africa3.8.2 Egypt3.8.3 Turkey3.8.4 Saudi Arabia3.8.5 Iran3.8.6 Others in Africa & Middle EastChapter Four Global Network Line by Companies 2012-20174.1 Global Network Line Sales Volume Market Share by Companies 2012-20174.2 Global Network Line Revenue Share by Companies 2012-20174.3 Global Top Companies Network Line Key Product Model and Market Performance4.4 Global Top Companies Network Line Key Target Consumers and Market PerformanceChapter Five United States Network Line by Companies 2012-20175.1 United States Network Line Sales Volume Market Share by Companies 2012-20175.2 United States Network Line Revenue Share by Companies 2012-20175.3 United States Top Companies Network Line Key Product Model and Market Performance5.4 United States Top Companies Network Line Key Target Consumers and Market PerformanceChapter Six Global Network Line by Consumer 2012-20176.1 Global Network Line Sales Market Share by Consumer 2012-20176.2 Home Use6.3 Commercial Use6.4 Consuming Habit and PreferenceContinue...Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.ResearchMozState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @ Website designing company in New York for forward thinking businesses https://www.dotlogics.com/web-design-company-new-york United States 17-10-2017. Dotlogics is the award-winning web design company takes pride in providing the best web designing and development services. 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Once you have hired a digital agency for your business then it will be easy for you to make sure your business has adequate web solution. Generally, a website is the important thing for a business to be successful in competitive world.Whether you are running a small business or are owner at big organization but a website is really important for your business success. If you want to start any eCommerce business then a creatively designed and fully functional website can do wonder for your growth online. So, it is right to say that a website is key to success of businesses today. If you are looking for the leading and trusted web design companies in New York then Dotlogics is the name you can trust.Get additional detail about web design company in New York by visiting at:Dotlogics is the leading and dedicated web design company in New York is really glad to provide professional and custom web design services. It has all the expertise and knowledge that is important to take your business to the next level.When it comes to selection of a website designing and development company then Dotlogics is the #1 option.514 Larkfield Road, Suite 6, East Northport, NY, 11731, United States Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market is Anticipated to grow at the CAGR of ~ 11.41% and is estimated to reach USD 325.5 million by 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/4137 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/europe-cbct-dental-imaging-market-two-4137 Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market information, by type of detector (flat panel detector, and others), by application (dental implants, orthodontics, and others), by end user Europe forecast till 2023Market synopsis of Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market:Market Scenario:Dental Cone Beam Computed Tomography or CBCT is a special type of X-ray equipment used when regular dental or facial X-rays are not sufficient. This technology is used to produce three dimensional (3-D) images of the teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways, and bones in a single scan.Increasing funding for research is leading to new and innovative device development that is driving the market growth. Rapid adoption of advanced devices by dental professionals for accurate and effective diagnosis is also important for the market growth. The use of 3D radiographic imaging in orthodontics is growing rapidly which has fueled the market demand. Changing technology and healthcare practices also play major role in the growth of this market. Some other factors include growing aging population, rising awareness, investment made by hospitals for technology up gradation, increasing cases of gum diseases and sport injuries that are spurring the market growth.Government support to encourage research and development also plays an important role here. Academic and research institutes are leading new researches that are expanding the application of CBCT imaging devices. Increasing use of CBCT imaging in cosmetic dentistry treatments is another key driving force for the market.However, some factors are inhibiting the growth of Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market such as lack of awareness for the use of advanced technologies which results in slow adoption of advanced technologies in many European countries, risk of radiations in children and teens etc.CBCT dental imaging industry is growing rapidly and is expected to continue its growth during 2017-2023. Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market is expected to grow at the CAGR of ~ 11.41% during the forecast period and is estimated to reach USD 325.5 million by 2023.Get a Copy of Sample Report @Key players for Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market:Carestream Health (US)Dentsply Sirona (US)FONA DentalS.R.O. (Slovak Republic)Gendex (Danaher Corporation) (US)Imaging Sciences International, LLC. (Danaher Corporation) (US)J.MORITA MFG.CORP (Japan)KaVo Dental GmbH (Danaher Corporation) (Germany)NewTom (Italy)Planmeca OY (Finland).Key Findings: France CBCT dental imaging market is expected to reach USD 4.5 million by 2023. Flat panel detector accounted for the largest market share in 2016, with a market value of USD 302.5 million by 2023. Orthodontics was the second-largest market by application and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.61% during 2017-2023.Segments:Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market has been segmented on the basis of type of detector which comprises of flat panel detector and image intensifier. Flat panel detector is sub-segmented into indirect conversion flat panel detectors and direct conversion flat panel detectors.On the basis of application, it is segmented into dental implants, orthodontics, endodontics, and others. Dental Implants is sub-segmented into endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants.On the basis of end user, this market is segmented into hospitals & dental clinics, academics and research institutes, and others.Browse Full Report Details @Regional analysis of Europe CBCT Dental Imaging market:Considering the scenario of the market, in 2016, Germany accounted for the largest market in Europe CBCT dental imaging market. The highest number of CBCT machines are sold each year in Germany among other European countries. Innovation and technologically advanced product development is leading the market growth. Germany is expected to reach 93.8 million by 2023. Some other factors such as growing aging population, funding for research, and availability of advanced imaging products are driving the market growth.Italy holds second position in Europe CBCT dental imaging market due to rapid adoption of advanced imaging devices and top class medical facilities. This market was valued around USD 29.0 million in 2016 and expected to continue its growth during the forecast period. Availability of advanced healthcare facilities, large amount of money invested for technology up gradation, and high awareness among the medical professional as well as people are spurring the market growth.UK is expected to grow at fastest CAGR of 11.89% during 2017-2023. Some major factors are driving the market growth such as government support to encourage research and new product development, growing aging population, increasing cases of various dental problems, increasing number of people suffering from gum problems etc.Rest of Europe is expected to grow slower than other European countries in this market and this lag can be attributed to slow adoption of advanced devices, low investment for research and technology up gradation, slow economic growth, traditional approach toward the healthcare etc.The report for Europe CBCT Dental Imaging 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 deeper insight to the market and industry performance. The report gives a clear picture of the 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 regionsContinueWe are thankful for the support and assistance from Europe CBCT Dental Imaging Market Research Report - Forecast till 2023 chain related technical experts and marketing experts during Research Team survey and interviews.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.Media Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Global Crawler Cranes Market 2022 with Key Companies Profile, Supply, Trends, Cost Structure & SWOT Analysis Global Crawler Cranes Market https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/744603-global-crawler-cranes-market-1 A new research study from HTF MI with title Global Crawler Cranes Market Size, Status and Forecast 2022 provides an in-depth assessment of the Crawler Cranes including key market trends, upcoming technologies, industry drivers, challenges, regulatory policies and issues, opportunities, future roadmap, value chain, ecosystem player profiles and strategies. The research study provides forecasts forCrawler Cranes investments till 2022.This study answers several questions for stakeholders, primarily which market segments or Region or Country they should focus in coming years to channelize their efforts and investments to maximize growth and profitability. These stakeholders include Crawler Cranes manufacturers such as Liebherr, Tadano, Manitowoc, XCMG, Terex, Zoomlion, Sany, Kobelco?Crane, Hitachi?Sumitomo, Furukawa, Sichuan Changjiang, Altec Industries, Action?Construction?Equipment, Elliott Equipment, Liugong, Bocker Maschinenwerke, Liaoning Fuwa, Manitex & Broderson, etc.Primary sources are mainly industry experts from core and related industries, and suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, service providers, and organizations related to all segments of the industrys supply chain. The bottom-up approach is being utilized to project the global market size of Crawler Cranes based on end-user industry and region, in terms of value. With the data triangulation procedure and validation of data through primary interviews, the exact values of the overall primary market, and individual market share & sizes are determined and confirmed with this study.Get Access to sample pages @Global Crawler Cranes (Thousands Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type such asHTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact Us:HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road, Edison, NJ USA - 08837sales@htfmarketreport.comPh: +1 (206) 317 1218 In-Depth Research Report on Global and United States In-Dash Navigation System Market 2017-2022 | Researchmoz United States In-Dash Navigation System https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1304050 https://www.researchmoz.us/global-and-united-states-in-dash-navigation-system-in-depth-research-report-2017-2022-report.html https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1304050 http://www.researchmoz.us/ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global and United States In-Dash Navigation System In-Depth Research Report 2017-2022" to its huge collection of research reports.The report is based on the market historical data from 2012 to 2016 and forecast the market trend from 2017 to 2022.This report focuses on the U.S. market and presents volume and value of market share by players, by regions, by product type, by consumers and also changes in prices. As an in-depth report, it covers all details inside analysis and opinions in In-Dash Navigation System industry.Major CompaniesContinental AG (DE)Delphi Automotive (US)Robert Bosch GmbH (DE)Denso Corporation (JP)Harman International (US)Alpine Electronics, Inc. (JP)Pioneer Corporation (JP)Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (JP)Garmin Ltd. (TW)Tomtom NV (NL)Clarion Co. Ltd. (JP)Luxoft Holding Inc (CH)To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Key RegionsNorth AmericaUnited StatesCaliforniaTexasNew YorkOthersCanadaLatin AmericaMexicoBrazilArgentinaOthersEuropeGermanyUnited KingdomFranceItalySpainRussiaNetherlandOthersAsia & PacificChinaJapanIndiaKoreaAustraliaSoutheast AsiaIndonesiaThailandPhilippinesVietnamSingaporeMalaysiaOthersAfrica & Middle EastSouth AfricaEgyptTurkeySaudi ArabiaIranOthersMain types of productsIn-Dash Navigation System Market, by Component TypeDisplay UnitControl ModuleAntenna ModuleWiring HarnessIn-Dash Navigation System Market, by Technology Type2D Maps3D MapsIn-Dash Navigation System Market, by Key ConsumersPassenger CarsLight Commercial VehiclesHeavy Commercial VehiclesBrowse Detail Report With TOC @Table of ContentsGlobal and United States In-Dash Navigation System In-Depth Research Report 2017-2022Chapter One Global In-Dash Navigation System Market Overview1.1 Global In-Dash Navigation System Market Sales Volume Revenue and Price 2012-20171.2 In-Dash Navigation System, by Component Type 2012-20171.2.1 Global In-Dash Navigation System Sales Market Share by Component Type 2012-20171.2.2 Global In-Dash Navigation System Revenue Market Share by Component Type 2012-20171.2.3 Global In-Dash Navigation System Price by Component Type 2012-20171.2.4 Display Unit1.2.5 Control Module1.2.6 Antenna Module1.2.7 Wiring Harness1.3 In-Dash Navigation System, by Technology Type 2012-20171.3.1 Global In-Dash Navigation System Sales Market Share by Technology Type 2012-20171.3.2 Global In-Dash Navigation System Revenue Market Share by Technology Type 2012-20171.3.3 Global In-Dash Navigation System Price by Technology Type 2012-20171.3.4 2D Maps1.3.5 3D MapsChapter Two United States In-Dash Navigation System Market Overview2.1 United States In-Dash Navigation System Market Sales Volume Revenue and Price 2012-20172.2 In-Dash Navigation System, by Component Type 2012-20172.2.1 United States In-Dash Navigation System Sales Market Share by Component Type 2012-20172.2.2 United States In-Dash Navigation System Revenue Market Share by Component Type 2012-20172.2.3 United States In-Dash Navigation System Price by Component Type 2012-20172.2.4 Display Unit2.2.5 Control Module2.2.6 Antenna Module2.2.7 Wiring Harness2.3 In-Dash Navigation System, by Technology Type 2012-20172.3.1 United States In-Dash Navigation System Sales Market Share by Technology Type 2012-20172.3.2 United States In-Dash Navigation System Revenue Market Share by Technology Type 2012-20172.3.3 United States In-Dash Navigation System Price by Technology Type 2012-20172.3.4 2D Maps2.3.5 3D MapsChapter Three In-Dash Navigation System by Regions 2012-20173.1 Global In-Dash Navigation System Sales Market Share by Regions 2012-20173.2 Global In-Dash Navigation System Revenue Market Share by Regions 2012-20173.3 Global In-Dash Navigation System Price by Regions 2012-20173.4 North America3.4.1 United States3.4.1.1 California3.4.1.2 Texas3.4.1.3 New York3.4.1.4 Others in United States3.4.2 Canada3.5 Latin America3.5.1 Mexico3.5.2 Brazil3.5.3 Argentina3.5.4 Others in Latin America3.6 Europe3.6.1 Germany3.6.2 United Kingdom3.6.3 France3.6.4 Italy3.6.5 Spain3.6.6 Russia3.6.7 Netherland3.6.8 Others in Europe3.7 Asia & Pacific3.7.1 China3.7.2 Japan3.7.3 India3.7.4 Korea3.7.5 Australia3.7.6 Southeast Asia3.7.6.1 Indonesia3.7.6.2 Thailand3.7.6.3 Philippines3.7.6.4 Vietnam3.7.6.5 Singapore3.7.6.6 Malaysia3.7.6.7 Others in Southeast Asia3.8 Africa & Middle East3.8.1 South Africa3.8.2 Egypt3.8.3 Turkey3.8.4 Saudi Arabia3.8.5 Iran3.8.6 Others in Africa & Middle EastChapter Four Global In-Dash Navigation System by Companies 2012-20174.1 Global In-Dash Navigation System Sales Volume Market Share by Companies 2012-20174.2 Global In-Dash Navigation System Revenue Share by Companies 2012-20174.3 Global Top Companies In-Dash Navigation System Key Product Model and Market Performance4.4 Global Top Companies In-Dash Navigation System Key Target Consumers and Market PerformanceChapter Five United States In-Dash Navigation System by Companies 2012-20175.1 United States In-Dash Navigation System Sales Volume Market Share by Companies 2012-20175.2 United States In-Dash Navigation System Revenue Share by Companies 2012-20175.3 United States Top Companies In-Dash Navigation System Key Product Model and Market Performance5.4 United States Top Companies In-Dash Navigation System Key Target Consumers and Market PerformanceChapter Six Global In-Dash Navigation System by Consumer 2012-20176.1 Global In-Dash Navigation System Sales Market Share by Consumer 2012-20176.2 Passenger Cars6.3 Light Commercial Vehicles6.4 Heavy Commercial Vehicles6.5 Consuming Habit and PreferenceContinue...Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.ResearchMozState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @ Interview with Pfenex explores market access and pricing of biosimilars in North America www.biosimilars-northamerica.com/openPR www.biosimilars-northamerica.com/openPR www.biosimilars-northamerica.com/openPR www.biosimilars-northamerica.com/openPR http://www.smi-online.co.uk SMi Group has announced that Mr Patrick Lucy, CEO of Pfenex, has joined the speaker line-up for the 4th annual Biosimilars North America conference which takes place on November 15 & 16 in New Jersey.In the run-up to the conference, SMi Group had a quickfire interview with Patrick Lucy. Patrick will be presenting an exclusive session at the conference on where the market for biosimilars is heading, including key milestones and challenges overcome.Asked about the level of biosimilar discounting is optimal and will we ever see price matching between branded and biosimilar products, Patrick said "Biosimilars are much more complex, requiring more resources and time to develop than small molecule drugs. In addition, there are far fewer players in the market. As such, discounts for biosimilar products have not been as steep as traditional generics. As a greater number of players enter the market and additional products are approved we will see greater competition, which will lead to greater access to needed treatments, positively impacting the lives patients the ultimate goal.The full interview can be found onPatrick will present a special keynote address giving an overview of the biosimilars market, including the key milestones and hurdles the industry has overcome. He will also share some top tips on what to keep in mind moving forward.He joins a speaker line-up comprised of experts shaping up the biosimilars landscape in North America including representatives from Sandoz, Harvest Moon Pharmaceuticals, Momenta, FUJIFILM Diosynth, Oncobiologics, Adelio, Covance, Zuckerman & Spaeder and more.The full roster of speakers and their topics can be found onSMis Biosimilars North America conference will explore significant developmental topics within the sector including the impact of FDAs newly implemented biosimilar interchangeability guidelines, the US market access landscape, and biosimilars of orphan drugs.Registration is now live on the event website and there For more information visit:4th Biosimilars North AmericaNovember 15 & 16, 2017Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel, Iselin, NJ, USA--- END ---For delegate registration enquiries, contact Fateja Begum on fbegum@smi-online.co.uk. For media enquiries, contact Honey de Gracia at hdegracia@smi-online.co.uk.About SMi Group:Established since 1993, the SMi Group is a global event-production company that specializes in Business-to-Business Conferences, Workshops, Masterclasses and online Communities. We create and deliver events in the Defence, Security, Energy, Utilities, Finance and Pharmaceutical industries. We pride ourselves on having access to the worlds most forward-thinking opinion leaders and visionaries, allowing us to bring our communities together to Learn, Engage, Share and Network. More information can be found atWestminster Bridge Road, SE1 7XW Asia Pacific (APAC) Patient Monitoring System Market 2017 By Analyzing the Performance of Various Competitors 2024 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2316570-asia-pacific-apac-patient-monitoring-system-market-outlook-2024-opportunity-assessment WiseGuyReports published new report, titled Asia Pacific (APAC) Patient Monitoring System Market OutlookMarket OverviewThe emerging healthcare industries are experiencing stellar modification in monitoring patients. Patient monitoring system is the term used for all the devices that is used to examine and observe patients, their physiological function and supervision. Some devices are used for alerting physicians and doctors if any patient is in critical stage. Patient monitoring devices are used when there are cases of drug overdose, symptoms of heart attack and growth in chronic diseases.Global patient monitoring system market is at emerging pace because of vast adoption of monitoring devices in healthcare industry. Asia Pacific holds 20% market share in patient monitoring system market in 2016. Japan is the largest country that dominated the Asia Pacific patient monitoring system market in 2016 followed by China, India and Korea. Recently, Korean scientist have developed electronic skin device for the first time in the world. When the device is put on skin, it can monitor biostatic information of patient 24/7. It can also be connected to smart phones.A latest heart attack controlling device was launched by Omron healthcare Inc, a Japan based company in 2016 to help heart patients. The company aims to reduce the number of heart patent to zero by focusing on elimination of heart attacks and strokes. Omron Healthcare is the global leader in treatment of heart health issues.The market of Asia Pacific Patient Monitoring System is mainly driven by the factors such as increasing number of chronic disease in Asia Pacific as two in three deaths were from chronic disease worldwide in 2016. Nevertheless, there are certain factors that restrict the market from growing such as lack of trained staff and physicians.GET SAMPLE REPORT @Market Segmentation On the basis of deviceso Cardiac monitorso Fetalo Prenatal and neonatal monitorso Hemodynamic monitorso Multi-parameter monitorso Neurological monitorso Respiratory monitorso Remote patient monitorso Micro electro mechanical systems based monitorso Temperature and weight monitors By End Usero Medical centers and medical specialisto Primary healthcare and community healthcare centerso Laboratorieso Diagnostic centerso Home-based users.Market Size and Forecast (2016-2024)Global patient monitoring system market is expected to reach USD 28.01 billion by 2024 from USD 14.21 billion in 2016 at a CAGR of 5.9% over the forecast period out of which APAC patient monitoring system market holds 20% market share in 2016. Asia Pacific patient monitoring system market is anticipated to reach USD 5.06 billion by 2024 from USD 2.84 billion in 2016 at a promising CAGR of 10.49% over the forecast period.On the basis of devices, cardiac monitor are accounted for the largest share of around 25% in Asia Pacific patient monitoring system market in 2016. This is due to rising cases of heart attack in South Asia including India. Market value of cardiac monitor is USD 0.71 billion in 2016 and is anticipated to reach at USD 1.26 billion by 2024.Based on the country, Japan is the largest country in Asia Pacific patient monitoring system market followed by China, India and Korea. Japan alone holds 30% market share of Asia Pacific patient monitoring system market in 2016. This is due to variation and innovations made in technologies by key players of Asia Pacific patient monitoring system market in Japan.Key Trends and Growth DriversPatient monitoring devices help in controlling increasing number of death incidents caused by heart attack as two out of three deaths worldwide is caused by heart attack, increase in geriatric population, urge for home healthcare devices and growth in chronic diseases are the key factors that drives the demand of APAC patient monitoring system market.Market RestraintsThe major restraint that curtail the growth of Asia Pacific patient monitoring system market are lack of trained staff and personnel, lack of reimbursement policies and high cost of devices.Key Market Players Omron healthcare Inc.o Synopsiso Business Strategyo Product Portfolioo SWOT Analysis Nihon Kohden Abbott laboratories Philip healthcare Medtronic Plc. Roche diagnostic Siemens healthcare Lifewatch Honeywell International..CONTINUEDWise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available. We also provide COTS (Commercial off the Shelf) business sector reports as custom exploration agreeing your particular needs.WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, India Global Premium Bottled Water Market 2017 Share,Trend,Segmentation and Forecast to 2021 Premium Bottled Water Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2390684-global-premium-bottled-water-market-2017-2021 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2390684-global-premium-bottled-water-market-2017-2021 WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Global Premium Bottled Water Market 2017 Share,Trend,Segmentation and Forecast to 2021.The analysts forecast the global premium bottled water market to grow at a CAGR of 5.51% during the period 2017-2021.Bottled water is drinking water packaged in plastic or glass water bottles. Bottled water might be carbonated or not. The bottled water which is high priced is referred as premium bottled water. Demand for premium bottled water is expected to increase worldwide due to the increasing awareness of the health benefits of premium bottled water with added minerals and the decreasing quality of tap water in most of the countries.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comCovered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global premium bottled water market for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report presents a detailed picture of the market by way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: Americas APAC EMEAThe report, Global Premium Bottled Water 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 Danone GEROLSTEINER BRUNNEN Nestle The Coca-Cola Company Tibet Water ResourcesOther prominent vendors Bai Bling H2O blue republic artesian water FIJI Water Iluliaq PepsiCo Premium Waters VEEN Vital Premium Water WAIAKEAMarket driver Expansion in the retail landscape For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge Side effects of flavored water For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trend Flavored water trends For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey 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?Report Details @Table Of Contents Major Key PointsPART 01: Executive summaryPART 02: Scope of the reportPART 03: Research MethodologyPART 04: Introduction Market outline Global bottled water marketPART 05: Market landscape Market overview Market size and forecast Five forces analysisPART 06: Market segmentation by product Global premium bottled water by product Global flavored premium bottled water market Global unflavored premium bottled water marketPART 07: Geographical Segmentation Global premium bottled water market by geography Premium bottled water market in EMEA Premium bottled water market in the Americas Premium bottled water market in APACPART 08: Key leading countries Premium bottled water market in the US Premium bottled water market in Germany Premium bottled water market in FrancePART 09: Decision frameworkPART 10: Drivers and challenges Market drivers Market challengesPART 11: Market trends Flavored water trends Product launches New packaging formats Clean labelingPART 12: Vendor landscapePART 13: Key vendor analysis The Coca-Cola Company Danone Nestle Tibet Water Resources GEROLSTEINER BRUNNEN Other prominent vendorsContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Global Edible Oils Market 2017 By Analyzing the Performance of Various Competitors 2024 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2316603-global-edible-oils-market-outlook-2024-global-opportunity-and-demand-analysis WiseGuyReports published new report, titled Global Edible Oils Market OutlookMarket OverviewGlobal edible oils market is flourishing on the back of its wide uses in various industries and household purposes. Growing number of health conscious consumers and growing concerns about food contents with fats and cholesterol contents that is responsible for various chronic diseases are major factors driving the growth of global edible oil market. Growing health concern is the major reason that is shifting the focus of manufacturers towards the development of healthy edible oils. Over past few years, major market players invested their efforts and huge investments over R&D to get best possible health beneficial edible oils. In current market scenario, major players are providing edible oils that help in balancing fat metabolism, lowering oil absorption during digestion and lowering blood pressure among others. Manufacturers extended their innovation and research endeavors from products to packaging to increase their consumer base. Manufacturers provide packaging solutions that prevents gurgling and facilitate smooth flow of oils, reducing spoilage. In the firm competitive edible oils market, major players are adopting various business strategies to sustain their existence and strong position in the market. For instance, Cargill Inc. based on U.S., acquired the Leonardo Olive Oil Business of Dalmia Continental Pvt. Ltd. in 2014. Leonardo is the leading brand of oil and a pioneer in establishing the popularity and use of olive oil in India. The acquisition will help the Cargill group to establish its business in India which is one of the major consumers of edible oil across the globe. Bunge Limited, a global food and agribusiness company acquired edible oil producers Walter Rau Neusser and Ana Gida in Europe in 2016. The company is also looking forward to complete its acquisition of Grupo Minsa in Mexico.GET SAMPLE REPORT @Market Segmentation By Productso Palm Oilo Soybean Oilo Canola Oilo Sunflower Oilo Olive Oilo Coconut Oilo Others (Peanut oil, sesame oil, etc) By End Userso Food Service Industry (eateries)o Food and Beverage Industryo Households By Packagingo PET Bottleso HDPE Canso Tin-Plate Containerso Tetrapakso Flexible Plastic Poucheso Glass Bottles By Distribution Channelso Onlineo Offline (Retailers, Wholesalers etc.)Growth Drivers and ChallengesGrowing global population and increasing expenditures over foodservice industries such as full time restaurants, fast food outlets, caterers and hotels are expected to bolster the demand for edible oils. Availability of wide range of edible oils and broad applications in food and industrial sector are driving the growth of global edible oils market. Rising health concerns also contributed to the development and adoption of healthy edible oils across the world. Edible oil manufacturers are adopting new techniques for the processing and extraction of oil from oil crops. New processing techniques such as cold pressing are introduced to provide healthy and natural edible oil products which have healthier and balanced fatty acid profiles. Rising disposable income is also a key factor for the growth of premium range of edible oils in developing countries. Growing high income population in Southeast Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe is one of the of the major factors driving the growth of global edible oils market. With demand for edible oils growing in developing countries set to surpass that of developed ones.Market Size and ForecastGlobal edible oils market accounted for USD 84.6 Billion in 2016 and the market is expected to reach USD 128.4 Billion by the end of 2024. Further, the market is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% over the forecast period i.e. 2016-2024.Geographically, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest consumer of edible oils in 2016. China and India are the largest importers of crude edible oils in the region closely followed by the Pakistan and Bangladesh. Malaysia and Indonesia are the largest exporters of palm and coconut edible oils to these countries. Australia is one of the largest oil seed crop producer and exporter in the region. Asia-Pacific region is closely followed by the North America with major consumption of soybean and canola edible oil. Europe's demand for edible oils is growing at moderate rate with high growth rate in Easter Europe countries. Major demands for edible oil in Europe are fulfilled by the imports from Africa and Latin America.Key Market Players Bunge Limitedo Synopsiso Business Strategyo Product Portfolioo SWOT Analysis Associated British Foods CHS Inc. Cargill Inc Wilmar International Limited Ruchi Soya Industries Ltd. Adams Group Olympic Oils Limited Borges Mediterranean Group Archer Daniels Midland Company American Vegetable Oils, Inc. Beidahuang Group Fuji Vegetable Oil Inc...CONTINUEDWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Research 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 Watkins Insurance Group Retains Its IIABA Best Practices Agency Status Watkins Insurance Group www.independentagents.com Watkins Insurance Group, one of the largest full-service, locally owned independent insurance agency in Central Texas, retains its Best Practices status, once again becoming a part of an elite group of independent insurance agencies around the United States. This status comes by participating in the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big I) Best Practices Study group. The annual survey and Study of leading independent insurance agencies documents the business practices of the best agencies and urges others to adopt similar practices.Since 1993, IIABA and Reagan Consulting, an Atlanta-based management consulting firm, have joined forces to study the countrys leading agencies in six revenue categories. The agencies comprising the study groups are selected every third year through a comprehensive nomination and qualifying process and awarded a Best Practices Agency designation. The agency was nominated by either an IIABA affiliated state association or an insurance company and qualified based on its operational excellence.The selected Best Practices agencies retain their status during the three-year cycle by submitting extensive financial and operational data for review each year. This is the second year of the current three-year study cycle, where over 1500 independent agencies throughout the U.S. were nominated to take part in the annual study in 2016, but only 262 agencies qualified for the honor. To be chosen, the agency had to be among the 35-45 top-performing agencies in one of six revenue categories.We are honored to have been a member of the Best Practices Study and having been grouped with such a respected collection of agency leaders, said Patrick Watkins, Watkins Insurance Group President. By being a Best Practices agency, we are able to share in the learning process for the benefit of all agencies. I believe we should never stop trying to improve. Even the best agency can always be better.About IIABAFounded in 1896, IIABA is the nations oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers, representing a network of more than 300,000 agents, brokers and their employees nationally. Its members are businesses that offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies. Independent agents and brokers offer all lines of insurance property, casualty, life and health as well as employee benefit plans and retirement products. Web address:For more information about the Watkins Insurance Group, please contact Dshanya Reese of Watkins Insurance Group at (512) 452-8877.####About Watkins Insurance GroupFounded in Austin in 1949, Watkins Insurance Group is one of the largest full service, locally-owned independent insurance agencies in Central Texas. Headquartered in Austin, Watkins Insurance Group has six locations throughout Texas, including offices in Longview, Marble Falls, Mineola, Tyler, and Waco. The agency provides tailored insurance, employee benefit, and bond solutions for business and personal risks of all sizes.Watkins Insurance Group3834 Spicewood Springs Rd Ste 100Austin TX 78759Press Contact: Dshanya Reese (512) 452-8877 "Global Yeast Infection Market" Pitching on Top Players Such as Scynexis, Synmedic Laboratories, Merck & Co., Inc, Astellas Pharma Europe Ltd, Bayer AG | CAGR 5.2% Global Yeast Infection Market http://databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=global-yeast-infection-market http://databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-yeast-infection-market/ http://databridgemarketresearch.com/toc/?dbmr=global-yeast-infection-market http://databridgemarketresearch.com/inquire-before-buying/?dbmr=global-yeast-infection-market http://databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-wearable-devices-market/ http://databridgemarketresearch.com/blog/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/data-bridge-market-research Global Yeast Infection Market is growing at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2024. The upcoming market report contains data for historic years 2015, the base year of calculation is 2016 and the forecast period is 2017 to 2024.Request for Sample Report @The major factors driving the growth of this market are the growing aging population worldwide, government initiatives for funding, and awareness about cancer. These factors increase the demand for cancer diagnostic products. On the other hand, stringent regulations imposed by international and local authorities and shortage of skilled and trained professionals may hinder the growth of the market.The global yeast infection market is segmented on the basis of technology, application, and geography.On the basis of pathogen, global yeast infection market is segmented into Candida Albicans, Candida Glabrata, Candida Rugosa.By site of infection the global yeast infection market is segmented into vaginal yeast infection, skin yeast infection and throat yeast infection.Browse Full Report @On the basis of treatment, global yeast infection market is segmented into medication and surgery.Medication is further sub segmented into cream, ointment, tablet and suppository.On the basis of end user the global yeast infection market is segmented into hospital, clinics and ambulatory centers.On the basis of distribution channel, global yeast infection market is segmented into retail pharmacies and drug stores.Request for TOC:On the basis of geography, global yeast infection market report covers data points for 28 countries across multiple geographies such as North America & South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. Some of the major countries covered in this report are U.S., Canada, Germany, France, U.K., Netherlands, Switzerland, Turkey, Russia, China, India, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Brazil among others. In 2017, North America is expected to dominate the market.The Global Yeast Infection Market is highly fragmented and is based on new product launches and clinical results of products. Hence the major players have used various strategies such as new product launches, clinical trials, market initiatives, high expense on research and development, agreements, joint ventures, partnerships, acquisitions, and others to increase their footprints in this market. The report includes market shares of yeast infection market for global, Europe, North America, Asia Pacific and South America.Some of the major players operating in global yeast infection market are Scynexis, Synmedic Laboratories, Merck & Co., Inc, Astellas Pharma Europe Ltd, Bayer AG, Mentis Pharma Ltd., Abbott, Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi, ALLERGAN, AstraZeneca, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, Stella Pharmaceutical Canada Inc., Glenmark, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Taro Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Bristol Laboratories Ltd, WOCKHARDT Perrigo Company plc among others.Inquiry before Buying @Realted ReportGlobal Wearable Devices Market Trends and Forecast to 2024Global Wearable Devices Market, By Product Type (Wristwear, Eyewear, Footwear, Neckwear, Bodywear, Others), By Industry (Consumer Products, Healthcare, Industrial, and Others), By Type (Smart Textile (Passive, Active, Ultra Smart) (Sensing, Energy Harvesting, Luminiscence, Thermo Electricity), Non-Textile), By Technology, By Component, By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Rest of the World) 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 BlogFollow us on LinkedIn: Cardiac Biomarkers Market by Manufacturers,Types,Regions and Applications Research Report Forecast to 2021 Cardiac Biomarkers Market 2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2390669-global-cardiac-biomarkers-market-2017-2021 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2390669-global-cardiac-biomarkers-market-2017-2021 WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Cardiac Biomarkers Market by Manufacturers,Types,Regions and Applications Research Report Forecast to 2021.The analysts forecast the global cardiac biomarkers market to grow at a CAGR of 12.97% during the period 2017-2021.Cardiac biomarkers are the substances used to detect the risk stratification of a patient with chest pain or suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS). These biomarkers are released in blood when the heart is damaged or stressed. The tests that are carried out by introducing the cardiac biomarkers to the bloodstream help in determining the risks of associated heart conditions such as cardiac ischemia, ACS, myocardial infarction, and other associated heart diseases.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comCovered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global cardiac biomarkers market for 2017-2021. The report presents a detailed picture of the market by way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: Americas APAC EMEAThe report, Global Cardiac Biomarkers 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 Abbott Alere F. Hoffmann-La RocheOther prominent vendors Advanced ImmunoChemical AgPlus Diagnostics AZSense BD BG Medicine BioLegend bioMerieux Bio-Rad Laboratories BODITECH MED CAVADIS Cisbio Bioassays Creative Diagnostics Critical Diagnostics Cruinn Medical DiaDexus Enzo Life Sciences Lepu Medical LifeSign LSI Medience Merck Monobind Myriad RBM NeoClone NOWDiagnostics Olink Randox Laboratories Response Biomedical Signosis Thermo Fisher Scientific Tosoh Europe Trinity Biotech Trivitron Healthcare WondfoMarket driver Increasing use of cardiac biomarkers For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge Dominance of top vendors For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trend Increased clinical trials For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey 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?Report Details @Table Of Contents Major Key PointsPART 01: Executive summaryPART 02: Scope of the reportPART 03: Research MethodologyPART 04: Introduction Market outlinePART 05: Market landscape Market overview Market size and forecast Five forces analysisPART 06: Market segmentation by technology Market overview Conventional laboratory testing POC testingPART 07: Market segmentation by product Market overview Global troponin (cTnI, cTnT) assay market Global others assay market Global BNP & NT-proBNP assay market Global CK-MB assay market Global myoglobin assay marketPART 08: Market segmentation by end-user Market overview Hospitals and clinics Diagnostic laboratoriesPART 09: Geographical segmentation Market overview Cardiac biomarkers market in Americas Cardiac biomarkers market in EMEA Cardiac biomarkers market in APACPART 10: Decision frameworkPART 11: Drivers and challenges Market drivers Market challengesPART 12: Market trends Increased clinical trials Increasing use of cardiac biomarkers in POC testing Emerging cardiac biomarkersPART 13: Vendor landscape Competitive landscape Abbott Alere F. Hoffmann-La Roche Key companies to watch Other prominent vendorsContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Champion Brands Names Director of Sales for Red Bull Mike Nearbin, Champion Brands Director of Sales for Red Bull www.championbrands.net Jacksonville, Fla., Oct. 17, 2017 Champion Brands, a premier beverage sales company, is pleased to announce they have promoted Mike Nearbin to Director of Sales for Red Bull. Nearbin is responsible for creating the development plan for Red Bull to ensure it aligns with the company and suppliers initiatives. He sets the goals for Red Bull sales for facilities in both Jacksonville and Savannah and is responsible for supplier relations.Nearbin has worked with Champion Brands for more than 23 years. He started with the company as a delivery driver and worked his way up to numerous leadership roles within the company. He has served as a chain sales manager, C-store sales manager, off-premise sales manager, service director and the general manager for the Red Bull Florida division.Nearbin lives in St. Johns County with his wife of 19 years and his three children. Nearbin is also proud to be a living organ donor.Champion Brands began selling Red Bull in 2001. They expanded and opened the Savannah branch in 2006. Nearbin will lead the Red Bull sales development for both facilities.About Champion BrandsChampion Brands is a Jacksonville-based premier beverage sales company, which serves customers and suppliers in Florida and Georgia. The company was established in 1985 and has a superior brand portfolio of domestic and imported beverages, including local and regional craft beer, specialty imports, Red Bull energy drinks, ciders and gluten-free beverages. Champion Brands utilizes the most innovative techniques for selling and delivering goods to the market and has created a positive work environment for employees who consistently exceed customers needs. For more information, visitChampion Brands Inc.5571 Florida Mining Blvd. S.Jacksonville, FL 32257Media Contact: Kelly WhiteKelly.white@cfmedia.net Erythropoietin Drug Market Global Industry Insights, Size, Share, Trends, Outlook Analysis 20172023 Erythropoietin Drug https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1360 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/1360 The Global erythropoietin drug Market Research Report provides detailed analysis of the key regional market status of the erythropoietin drug Industry.Global erythropoietin drug market research report, by product type (biosimilars, first generation formulation and second generation formulation) by application (oncology, renal diseases, HIV and other) and by end user (hospitals and pharmacy) - Forecast Till 2023Erythropoietin drugs are also known as hematopoietin. It is a glycoprotein hormone that controls erythropoiesis or production of RBC. They are used in treatment of different diseases like cancer, chronic renal diseases, AIDS, anaemia and many more. Global erythropoietin market is driven by increasing prevalence of diseases like cancer, AIDA and renal diseases. Beside this introduction of new drugs and different government initiatives for research are also has synergistic effect on growth of the market. Whereas high cost of treatment and side effects of the treatment may restrain the growth of market.Global erythropoietin drug market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5% during forecasted period.Get Sample Copy @SegmentationGlobal erythropoietin drug market is segmented on the basis of type of product into biosimilars, first generation formulation and second generation formulation. On the basis of application market is segmented as oncology, renal diseases, HIV and other and on the basis of end user they are segmented into hospital and pharmacy.Key players for global erythropoietin drug marketHoffmann-La Roche (Switzerland), Johnson & Johnson (US), Amgen (US), Kyowa Hakko Kirin, Intas Pharmaceuticals (India), Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (Israel), Biocon (India), Emcure Pharmaceuticals (India), Celltrion, Inc. (South Korea), Hospira (US), Dahua Pharmaceutical (China), LG Life Sciences Ltd. (Korea), 3SBio, Boehringer Ingelheim (US), BIOSIDUS (Argentina).Study Objectives global erythropoietin drug marketDetail information about the factors affecting the growth of the global erythropoietin drugDetail analysis of parent market with respect to all the possible segmentation of the market.Detail analysis of emerging key players for the market with their effective strategies.Detail Information about the present and forecasted market and factors that influences the market on global scale.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 erythropoietin drug market.Analysis of the market of the different factors like- price analysis, supply chain analysis, porters five force analysis etc.Detail information on the possible segments and sub segments of the market. And regional analysis of the market- North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Middle East and Africa.Insights on the major countries/regions in which this industry is blooming and to also identify the regions that are still untappedDetail information on trends and the opportunities in various regions.Regional AnalysisOn regional basis, global erythropoietin drug market, North America contribute the largest market which is followed by Europe. Due to continuously increasing cancer population and patient suffering from renal diseases in North America helped to grow this market in North America. Beside this technological advance and governmental initiatives for research has provided fuel for the growth of the market. Asia Pacific is the third largest market and is the fastest growing market for erythropoietin drug market. While Middle East and Africa has the least contribution in global erythropoietin drug market.Ask Question to Expert atTable of Content1 INTRODUCTION1.1 DEFINITION1.2 SCOPE OF STUDY1.2.1 RESEARCH OBJECTIVE1.2.2 ASSUMPTIONS & LIMITATIONS1.2.2.1 ASSUMPTIONS1.2.2.2 LIMITATIONS1.3 MARKET STRUCTURE:2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY2.1 RESEARCH PROCESS:2.2 PRIMARY RESEARCH2.3 SECONDARY RESEARCH:3 MARKET DYNAMICS3.1 DRIVERS3.2 RESTRAINTS3.3 OPPORTUNITIES3.4 MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS4 MARKET FACTOR ANALYSIS4.1 PORTERS FIVE FORCES MODEL4.2 BARGAINING POWER OF SUPPLIERS4.3 BARGAINING POWER OF BUYERS4.4 THREAT OF NEW ENTRANTS4.5 THREAT OF SUBSTITUTES4.6 INTENSITY OF RIVALRYAbout 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 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comMRFR has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.Our Research Analysts are eager to share their knowledge and assist you in refining market research parameters, choosing right market studies, and evaluating both the market scope and the research methodologies of varied segments.We bridge the gap between our clients and their clients by identifying and decoding just the target group, while generating leads with the highest accuracy.Years of research into diverse fields of work has ingrained within us, a proficiency so distinguished that our industry-specific specialists identify with your business ideas and feel the pulse of your challenges and opportunities. This enables us for providing assistance, through our consulting and strategic consulting services, in informed managerial decision making. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industries, WantStats Research and Media often conducts industrial visits for its research analysts. Relevant inputs from various established market participants, help our clients make significant contribution in respective markets are a huge motivation for all of us to endlessly furnish quality. We depend greatly on profound insights into complex realms of our study.Pune, India Opportunities on the Global markets for Car Air Purifier and Cleaning Segmentation car air purifier for smokers, car air purifier Market, car air purifier in China https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1867 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/car-air-purifier-market Global Car Air Purifier Market ReportCheap price and portability of lighter type air purifier driving its sales in market. It is popular among smokers as it significantly reduce smoke and odor present inside car cabin. Ionizer emits negative ions which increase the sense of well-being and mental clarity by removing and debilitating effect of excessive positive ions inside car. In 2011, global car air purifier sales was 232 million units. While in 2016, it increased to 330 million units with an average increase rate of 7.34% during 2011-2016.Request for Sample Report @Study Objectives of Car Air Purifier MarketCar air purifier manufacturers are mainly concentrated in China and Europe. The two regions are also the major consumers of car air purifiers. In 2015, China and Europe held more than 50% share respectively in the global consumption market.Detail analysis of the markets segments and sub-segmentsTo estimate and forecast market size by type, application and regionTo analyses key driving forces which are influencing the marketRegion level market analysis and market estimation of North America, Europe, Asia, and rest of the world (ROW) and their countriesValue chain analysis & supply chain analysis of the marketCompany profiling of major players in the marketCompetitive strategy analysis and mapping key stakeholders in the marketAnalysis of historical market trends and technologies along with current government regulatory requirementsReport DescriptionCar air purifier is a device which removes contaminant from the air inside the car cabin and refreshes the air by emitting negative ions, and by using HEPA filters, photo-catalyst, electrostatics and UV lamp technologies. Air purifiers are designed for vehicles which tend to utilize the negative ions, ozone or fan powered designed technologies like HEPA.Cheap price and portability of lighter type air purifier driving its sales in market. It is popular among smokers as it significantly reduce smoke and odor present inside car cabin. Ionizer emits negative ions which increase the sense of well-being and mental clarity by removing and debilitating effect of excessive positive ions inside car. In 2011, global car air purifier sales was 232 million units. While in 2016, it increased to 330 million units with an average increase rate of 7.34% during 2011-2016.Car air purifier manufacturers are mainly concentrated in China and Europe. The two regions are also the major consumers of car air purifiers. In 2015, China and Europe held more than 50% share respectively in the global consumption market.In the future, it is predicted that global car air purifiers demand will keep increasing as more and more awareness of pollution hazards to health. Some regions, such as China and India, will become the most potential market for car air purifiers. Market participants think that car air purifier market will also face fiercer competition in the coming years.Key PlayersThe leading market players in car air purifier market primarily are PHILIPS (Netherlands), SHARP (Japan), Panasonic (Japan), Agcen (Germany), VOSSON (China), Purafil (U.S.), Cixi Landsign Electric Appliance Co., Ltd. (China), Ionkini Technology (GZ) Co., Ltd. (China), Jingcheng Technology (GZ) Co., Ltd. (China) and Huizhou Peak Points Technology Co., Ltd (China)Key FindingsChina is leading the market with an estimated share of more than 50% in the year 2016In 2016, desktop type car air purifier has more than 50% market share and it is growing at CAGR of 7.48%Country Analysis of Global Market Forecast to 2022 MarketAs per the MRFR analysis, the global market for car air purifier market has witnessed continued demand during the last few years and is projected to reach 440 million units by 2022, at a CAGR of 6.39%.The reports also cover country level analysis:North AmericaEuropesChinaJapanIndiaSouth-East AsiaAccess Complete Report @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 Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market: Pin-Point Analysis For Changing Competitive Dynamics https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=31112 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/pharmacovigilance-drug-safety-software-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/31112 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com The global Pharmacovigilance And Drug Safety Software Market is projected to create new opportunities in the coming years on account of the escalating complexity of drug safety regulations. Among the key contributing factors of the market could be tighter regulatory inspections implemented to control the rise of the incidences of drug-associated adverse events and spiraling concerns pertaining to patient safety.Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are predicted to largely adopt pharmacovigilance software for curbing the burden on medical outlay and facilitating clinical trial programs. The fortifying growth of contract research organizations (CROs) that perform pharmacovigilance for pharma firms could also strengthen the growth of the global pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market.Sample With Latest Advancements @As per Transparency Market Research (TMR), the global pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market could earn a US$187.0 mn by 2022 end after advancing from a US$143.6 mn achieved in 2017 at a CAGR of 5.4%.Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market: Major InsightsThe world pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market is envisaged to gain momentum from crucial applications in clinical research for performing post-marketing surveillance roles and conducting clinical studies. On a global platform, some of the most commonly used pharmacovigilance software could be Argus and ArisG. The benefits that such software bring to the table, including decreased redundancy in data and ease of access, could strongly fuel the demand in the market. In the foreseeable future, the usage rate of pharmacovigilance tools is envisioned to receive a good boost due to the rising pressure on drug manufacturers to identify early indications of drug-related adverse interactions and increasing withdrawals of high-profile drugs.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @The world pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market is forecasted to be cataloged according to software type, end user, and delivery mode. In terms of segmentation by type of software, fully integrated software, issue tracking software, drug safety audits software, and adverse event reporting software could be prominent markets for pharmacovigilance and drug safety software. The adverse event reporting software market could rise at a 6.2% CAGR.By end user, the world pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market could see a segmentation into business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, CROs, pharma and biotech companies, and other pharmacovigilance service providers. On the basis of mode of delivery, there could be important segments such as on-premise and cloud-based keeping the hopes alive for growth.Geographically, North America could secure a top position in the world pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market while raking in a US$79.2 mn by the end of 2022. Between 2017 and 2022, Europe is prophesied to make its contribution to the market by creating an absolute revenue opportunity that could be greater than that expected to be achieved by Asia Pacific except Japan (APEJ) during the forecast period. Markets such as Japan, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) could be other key segments of the market.Browse Our Table of Content @Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market: Vendor LandscapeSome of the crucial companies functioning in the worldwide pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market could be UMBRA Global LLC, AB Cube, United BioSource Corporation, Sparta Systems, Inc., Oracle Corporation, EXTEDO GmbH, Ennov Solutions, Inc., and ArisGlobal.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: Oncology Information System Market : Industry Analysis And Detailed Profiles Of Top Industry Players https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=18659 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/oncology-information-system-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/18659 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Oncology information systems are digital systems designed to keep track of the multi-pronged treatment patterns of cancer treatment. Oncology information systems deal with various parts of cancer treatment, including treatment planning and patient information records. The global Oncology Information System Market has exhibited steady growth over the last few years due to key drivers such as the rising prevalence of cancer across the world and the rising adoption of digital resources in the healthcare sector. The global oncology information system market is likely to exhibit a strong 7.6% CAGR over the 2017-2022 forecast period, with its valuation set to rise from US$2,285.6 mn in 2017 to US$3,293.8 mn in 2022.Sample With Latest Advancements @Here are the key insights into the growth of the oncology information system market:The rising prevalence of cancer across the world, and especially in developed countries, is the key driver for the global oncology information system market. The oncology information system market has benefited from the steady growth of the cancer treatment research sector in countries such as the U.S., Canada, Germany, and the U.K. and is set to prosper in the coming years due to the growing investment being provided to cancer research in these regions. The growing incidence of cancer recurrence in these countries is likely to be a crucial driver for the oncology information system market in the coming years, as oncology information systems are most utile in long-term cases that require consistent coordination with the historical treatment patterns.Government support to cancer research has also been forthcoming in developed countries, while the growing adoption of unhealthy lifestyle choices such as sedentary lifestyles, excessive consumption of junk food, and preference to addictions such as smoking and alcohol is likely to be a key driver for the global oncology information system market in the coming years. Growing government support is crucial for widespread adoption of oncology information systems, as it helps enable universal adoption and eases the financial load of incorporating the systems into the operating mechanisms of smaller hospitals.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @Accordingly, North America is set to remain the dominant contributor to the global oncology information system market in the coming years. The North America oncology information system market is set to rise from a valuation of US$933.7 mn to US$1,411.5 mn over the 2017-2022 forecast period, making it the dominant geographical segment of the global oncology information system market. Europe is also likely to make a vital contribution to the global oncology information system market over the 2017-2022 forecast period, with the region expected to present an absolute opportunity of US$212.5 mn in the aforementioned period.Browse Our Table of Content @Developing regions such as Asia Pacific except Japan are likely to be major contributors to the global oncology information system market in the future, though their share in the global market is likely to be limited in the forecast period due to the lack of skilled workers and technological support required for advanced oncology information systems. However, the rising prevalence of cancer in leading economies such as China and India, where government support as well as private investment in the healthcare sector has grown rapidly in recent years, is likely to drive the oncology information system market in the region in the coming years. The APEJ oncology information system market is expected to gain 100 BPS over its 2017 valuation by 2022, demonstrating its role as a major future component of the global oncology information system market.Competitive DynamicsLeading players in the global oncology information system market include Accuray Inc., Koninklijke Philips N.V., Cerner Corporation, Mckesson Corporation, Flatiron Health Inc., Raysearch Laboratories, Epic Systems Corporation, Verian Medical Systems Inc., and Elekta 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: High Content Screening Products Market: Industry Analysis And Detailed Profiles Of Top Industry Players https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=31043 https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/high-content-screening-products-market.htm https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/31043 http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com North America is spearheading the growth momentum in the global High Content Screening Products Market. High-content screening (HCS), also known as high-content analysis (HC) or cellomics comprises of a set of analytical methods such as microscopy, multi-parameter image processing, and visualization tools to gather quantitative data from cell populations. High-content screening (HCS) finds application in biological research and drug discovery.Rising thrust on cell-based research, increasing initiatives for drug discovery, and emergence of more sophisticated image analysis instruments are some of the factors that are having a positive influence on the global high-content screening (HCS) products market. Research organizations, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and academic and research institutes are the end-use segments in the market.Sample With Latest Advancements @According to Transparency Market Research, the global high content screening products market will likely rise at a CAGR of 8.0% from 2017 to 2022 to become worth US$1.23 bn by 2022.Here are the key insights into the global high content screening products market:Government support across countries worldwide for cell-based research has been providing a major boost to the global high content screening products market. Other factors having an equally positive impact on the growth of the market are demand for improved technologies for cell research, emergence of sophisticated informatics solutions, and rising demand for better screening systems. Besides, pressing need to develop new drug molecules, demand for advanced cell-based imaging are also stoking the global high content screening products market.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @The increasing instances of chronic diseases, namely HIV AIDS, epilepsy and Parkinsons disease that require intensive treatment along with the growing requirement of determination and study of toxicity levels in the initial phases of drug discovery is also providing a boost to the market.The different types of products available in the global high content screening products market are consumables, microplates, instruments, software, and service. Of them, the segment of consumables accounts for maximum market share. By rising at a CAGR of 8.3%, the segment will become worth US$486.6 mn in 2022.Geographically, North America is the leading market which is expected to register a CAGR of 8.2% in the forecast period. Rising at this rate, the market which is worth US$271.4 mn now in 2017 will likely become worth US$402.1 mn in 2022. Rising prevalence of chronic diseases, large pool of elderly, various collaborations with research institutes, strategic mergers and acquisitions, and superior healthcare infrastructure have served to propel the market in the region.Browse Our Table of Content @In terms of contribution to revenue, Europe trails North America. It currently accounts for 25.8% revenue share in the global high content screening products market. This is mainly because of the substantial investments in healthcare and government regulations in the region. Vis-a-vis growth rate, Asia Pacific is projected to outpace all other regions. By the end of 2022, Japan high content screening products market is projected to reach US$ 113.1 mn, expanding at a CAGR of 7.8% over the forecast period.Competitive TrackingSome of the prominent participants in the global high content screening products market are Thermo Fisher Scientific, Molecular Devices, GE Healthcare, PerkinElmer Inc., Becton, Dickinson and Company, Thorlabs, Inc., Merck KGaA, Cell Signaling Technology, Genedata AG, and Yokogawa Electric Corporation. These companies are expending time and money in developing novel technologies to satisfy unmet medical needs. They are also focusing on mergers and acquisitions in order to expand their market share.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: Perle upgrades IOLAN Serial Terminal Server Platform Gigabit Ethernet IOLAN Serial Servers www.perle.com NASHVILLE, October 17th, 2017 Perle Systems, a global provider of secure serial to Ethernet device networking hardware, today releases 1, 2 and 4-port Serial Terminal Servers with Gigabit Ethernet capabilities.Perle Serial ServersIncreased performance, speed, bandwidth and security are the reasons most Network Administrators upgrade to a gigabit network infrastructure. Perle IOLAN G Serial Servers interface seamlessly and provide the required connectivity between gigabit networks and mission critical serial equipment.John Feeney, COO at Perle Systems comments, The new IOLAN G Terminal Servers not only come with Gigabit Ethernet capabilities but, the new processor is the most powerful on the market today. This release emphasizes our commitment to our existing customers around the globe and those of tomorrow who rely on Perle for serial to Ethernet connectivity.IOLAN G Serial Terminal Servers feature a 600 MHz ARM processor, 512MB RAM, 4000MB flash memory, software selectable Ethernet speeds of 10/100/1000Base-T, serial port speeds of 300bps to 230Kbps and customizable baud rate support. In addition, users of the IOLAN G platform will have access to free software upgrade to future proof their installations.Perle IOLAN Serial Servers only use high-end components to ensure product reliability and are backed by a Lifetime Warranty to ensure user satisfaction.Learn more about IOLAN Serial to Ethernet Servers.About Perle SystemsPerle Systems is a leading developer, manufacturer and vendor of high-reliability and richly featured connectivity and device networking products. These products are used to connect remote users reliably and securely to central servers for a wide variety of business applications. Product lines include Console Servers for Data Center Management, Terminal Servers, Device Servers, Remote Power Switches, Media Converters, Ethernet I/O, Serial Cards, Parallel Cards and Multimodem Cards. Perle distinguishes itself through extensive networking technology, depth of experience in major real-world network environments and long-term distribution and VAR channel relationships in major world markets. Perle has offices in 9 countries in North America, Europe and Asia and sells its products through distribution and OEM/ODE channels worldwide.Perle Systems830 Fesslers Parkway, Suite 108Nashville, TN 37210Julie Mc DanielVP MarketingPhone: 1-800-46703753pr@perle.com Smart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security Market in Europe Research Report 2017 Analysis and Forecast to 2022 Smart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2395447-smart-borders-immigration-enforcement-border-security-markets-in-europe-2017-2022 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/2395447-smart-borders-immigration-enforcement-border-security-markets-in-europe-2017-2022 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=2395447 Smart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Smart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security Market 2017 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting to 2022reports to its database.Executive SummaryBorder Security Market 2015-2020 CAGR: 15.5%. Granulated by 40 SubmarketsWith 1.8 million asylum seekers (UN reports) crossing Western Europes external borders in 2015, the European border security agencies are facing challenges with a far greater reach than ever before. More than 1000 ISIS-trained jihadists returning to Europe every year, coupled with the surge of migrants to Europe are alarming concerns; as present capabilities of the European border, coast guard, intelligence services and immigration agencies simply cannot meet these challenges.The EU-Turkey deal (if implemented) might lead to a significant decrease in the flow of refugees (by March-April 2016 the rate of migrants entering Greece declined by 90%). However, the agreement faces formidable practical, political and legal challenges (e.g., each and every one of the 22 EU parliaments has to endorse the treaty).In the aftermath of the migration crisis and the Paris and Brussels terror attacks, a major overhaul of the Western European border security and immigration infrastructure, strategy, border security technology development and funding is already underway.Request Sample Report @Following a 2010 to 2015 annual market growth of 10-13% the 2015 to 2020 annual border security market will surge by 104%.The "European Smart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security Markets 2016-2022" report is the most comprehensive review of the border security market available today. It provides a detailed and reasoned roadmap of this growing security market.The European Smart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security Market is boosted by the following drivers:The Western European border security, coast guards, immigration agencies and intelligence agencies are ill-equipped to counter the surge of refugees and 21st century jihadists who use sophisticated means to return to the continent.The Schengen Area is comprised of 26 European countries that have abolished border control at their common borders. Several Schengen Area governments reinstated border checkpoints by 2015.Europe cannot build a wall to keep out refugees and terrorists or enlist millions of border guards who would need to watch every inch of its over 10,000 land borders and 80,000 coastlines.Europol estimates that up to 5,000 European jihadists have already returned to Western Europe after obtaining combat experience on the battlefields of the Middle East.On 15 December 2015, the European Commission presented a proposal for a new agency that would replace and succeed Frontex, having a stronger role and mandate, and forming a "European Border and Coast Guard" along with national authorities for border management.Of Europes approximately 50 countries, Russia has by far the longest coastline as well as the longest land border.Western Europe, the largest economy in the world with a 2015 GDP of approximately $22 trillion (vs. the U.S. $17.5 trillion), can invest "whatever it takes" to protect its citizens from the looming jeopardies of mass migration and terrorism using advanced border security technologies.The border security and immigration enforcement industry faces a considerable challenge in seeking to provide the necessary solutions to current and future threats. At the same time, this challenge presents multi-billion USD opportunities to the defense, ICT and security industries able to deliver effective functions, integrate systems, and maximize security and productivity per $ invested.According to European intelligence services, ISIS has approximately 5000 original European blank passports which can be used by jihadists returning to the EU.The EU and the rest of the European border security and immigration infrastructure enforcement market for products and services are served by local defense and security companies. Even with a preference for locally manufactured products, foreign products can usually strongly compete on the basis of cost-performance. They do not encounter any EU direct trade barriers or quotas. Non-tariff, indirect trade barriers may be the approval process of dual use goods, which include many security market products.This Europe Border Security report is a resource for executives with interests in the border security system market. It has been explicitly customized for the security industry and other decision-makers in order to identify business opportunities, developing technologies, market trends and risks, as well as to benchmark business plans.Questions answered in this 289-page report + one* reports include:What will the border security market size and trends be during 2016-2022?Which are the submarkets that provide attractive business opportunities?Who are the decision-makers?What drives the immigration enforcement & border security agencies to purchase products and services?What are the customers looking for?What are the technology & services trends?What is the market SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats)?What are the challenges to market penetration & growth?With 289 pages, 31 tables and 49 figures, the European Smart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security Markets 2016-2022 report covers 12 countries and regions, 4 technologies and 3 revenue source submarkets, offering for each of them 2015 data and assessments, and 2016-2022 forecasts and analyses.For further information on this report, visit -Why Buy this Report?A. Border Security Market data is analyzed via 3 key orthogonal perspectives:With a highly fragmented market we address the money trail each dollar spent via the following 3 viewpoints:By 12 Country and Region Markets:UKFranceHolland & BelgiumSweden, Norway, Finland & DenmarkGermanyAustria & SwitzerlandItalySpainPolandHungary & Czech RepublicRussiaRest of EuropeBy 3 Revenue Sources including:Products Sales RevenuesAfter Sale Revenues Including: Maintenance, Service, Upgrades & RefurbishmentOther Revenues Including: Planning, Training, Consulting, Contracted Services & Government Funded R&DBy 4 Technologies:Automatic Border Control (ABC) SystemsBorder & Perimeter BarriersVisa Issuance IT SystemsSmart Borders, Immigration Enforcement & Border Security TechnologiesB. Detailed market analysis frameworks for each of the market sectors, including:Market drivers & inhibitorsBusiness opportunitiesSWOT analysisCompetitive analysisBusiness environmentThe 2015-2022 market segmented by 36 submarketsC. The Europe Border Security report includes the following 5 appendices:Appendix A: European Homeland Security & Public Safety Related Product StandardsAppendix B: The European Union Challenges and OutlookAppendix C: Europe Migration Crisis & Border SecurityAppendix D: AbbreviationsD. The border security market report addresses over 300 European Homeland Security and Public Safety standards (including links)E. The supplementary (*) Global Homeland Security & Public Safety Industry 2016 Edition" report provides the following insights and analysis of the industry including:The Global Industry 2016 statusEffects of Emerging Technologies on the IndustryThe Market TrendsVendor Government RelationshipGeopolitical Outlook 2016-2022The Industry Business Models & StrategiesMarket Entry ChallengesThe Industry: Supply-Side & Demand-Side AnalysisMarket Entry StrategiesPrice ElasticityPast Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) EventsF. The supplementary (*) Global Homeland Security & Public Safety Industry 2016 Edition report provides a May 2016 updated extensive data (including company profile, recent annual revenues, key executives, homeland security and public safety products, and contact info.) of the leading 119 Homeland Security and Public Safety vendors including:3M3i-MIND3VR3xLOGICABBAccentureACTi CorporationADT Security ServicesAeroVironment Inc.Agent Video IntelligenceAirbus Defence and SpaceAlcatel-Lucent (Nokia Group)ALPHAOPENAmerican Science & Engineering Inc.AnixterAralia SystemsAT&T Inc.Augusta SystemsAustalAvigilon CorporationAwareAxisAxxonSoftAyonixBAE SystemsBioEnable Technologies Pvt LtdBioLink SolutionsBoeingBollinger Shipyards, IncBosch Security SystemsBruker CorporationBTCameroCassidianCelPlanChina Security & Surveillance, Inc.Cisco SystemsCitilogCognitec Systems GmbHComputer Network Limited (CNL)Computer Sciences CorporationCrossMatchDieboldDRS Technologies Inc.DVTelElbit Systems Ltd.Elsag DatamatEmerson ElectricEricssonESRIFaceFirstFinmeccanica SpAFiretideFulcrum Biometrics LLCG4SGeneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc.General Dynamics CorporationGetac Technology CorporationHanwha TechwinHarris CorporationHewlett Packard EnterpriseHexagon ABHoneywell International Inc.Huawei Technologies Co., LtdIBMIndigoVisionIntel SecurityIntuVision InciOmniscientIPConfigureIPS Intelligent Video AnalyticsIris ID Systems, Inc.IriTech Inc.Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.ISSL-3 Security & Detection SystemsLeidos, Inc.Lockheed Martin CorporationMACROSCOPMDSMer groupMilestone Systems A/SMirasysMotorola Solutions, Inc.National InstrumentsNEC CorporationNICE SystemsNorthrop Grumman CorporationNuance Communications, Inc.ObjectVideoPanasonic CorporationPelcoPivot3ProximexQinetiQ LimitedRapiscan Systems, Inc.RaytheonRockwell Collins, Inc.Safran S.A.Salient SciencesSchneider ElectricSeeTecSiemensSmart China (Holdings) LimitedSmiths Detection Inc.Sony Corp.Speech Technology CenterSuprema Inc.Synectics PlcTandu Technologies & Security Systems LtdTexas InstrumentsTextron Inc.Thales GroupTotal RecallUnisys CorporationVerintVialogy LLCVigilant TechnologyZhejiang Dahua TechnologyContinuousBuy this Report @Contact Us:Norah Trentsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US); +44 208 133 9349 (UK)About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042 In-dash Navigation System 2017 Global Market Key Players Continental AG, Garmin Ltd, Robert Bosch GmbH, Delphi Automotive PLC, Denso Corporation Analysis and Forecast to 2022 In-dash Navigation System Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2348989-global-in-dash-navigation-system-market-professional-survey-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2348989-global-in-dash-navigation-system-market-professional-survey-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=2348989 In-dash Navigation System Market 2017Wiseguyreports.Com adds In-dash Navigation System Market Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities, Analysis of Top Key Players and Forecast to 2022 To Its Research Database.Report Details:This report provides in depth study of In-dash Navigation System Market using SWOT analysis i.e. Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat to the organization. The In-dash Navigation System Market report also provides an in-depth survey of key players in the market which is based on the various objectives of an organization such as profiling, the product outline, the quantity of production, required raw material, and the financial health of the organization.This report studies In-dash Navigation System 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, coveringContinental AGGarmin Ltd.Robert Bosch GmbHDelphi Automotive PLCDenso CorporationTomtom NVLuxoft Holding IncHarman InternationalAlpine Electronics, Inc.Pioneer CorporationMitsubishi Electric CorporationClarion Co. Ltd.Request a Sample Report @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into2D maps3D mapsBy Application, the market can be split intoPassenger CarCommercial Vehicle (CV)By Regions, this report covers (we can add the regions/countries as you want)North AmericaChinaEuropeSoutheast AsiaJapanIndiaIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Complete Report Details@Major Key Points in Table of Content:1 Industry Overview of In-dash Navigation System1.1 Definition and Specifications of In-dash Navigation System1.1.1 Definition of In-dash Navigation System1.1.2 Specifications of In-dash Navigation System1.2 Classification of In-dash Navigation System1.2.1 2D maps1.2.2 3D maps1.3 Applications of In-dash Navigation System1.3.1 Passenger Car1.3.2 Commercial Vehicle (CV)1.3.3 Application 31.4 Market Segment by Regions1.4.1 North America1.4.2 China1.4.3 Europe1.4.4 Southeast Asia1.4.5 Japan1.4.6 India2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of In-dash Navigation System2.1 Raw Material and Suppliers2.2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of In-dash Navigation System2.3 Manufacturing Process Analysis of In-dash Navigation System2.4 Industry Chain Structure of In-dash Navigation System..8 Major Manufacturers Analysis of In-dash Navigation System8.1 Continental AG8.1.1 Company Profile8.1.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.1.2.1 Product A8.1.2.2 Product B8.1.3 Continental AG 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.1.4 Continental AG 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.2 Garmin Ltd.8.2.1 Company Profile8.2.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.2.2.1 Product A8.2.2.2 Product B8.2.3 Garmin Ltd. 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.2.4 Garmin Ltd. 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.3 Robert Bosch GmbH8.3.1 Company Profile8.3.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.3.2.1 Product A8.3.2.2 Product B8.3.3 Robert Bosch GmbH 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.3.4 Robert Bosch GmbH 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.4 Delphi Automotive PLC8.4.1 Company Profile8.4.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.4.2.1 Product A8.4.2.2 Product B8.4.3 Delphi Automotive PLC 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.4.4 Delphi Automotive PLC 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.5 Denso Corporation8.5.1 Company Profile8.5.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.5.2.1 Product A8.5.2.2 Product B8.5.3 Denso Corporation 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.5.4 Denso Corporation 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.6 Tomtom NV8.6.1 Company Profile8.6.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.6.2.1 Product A8.6.2.2 Product B8.6.3 Tomtom NV 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.6.4 Tomtom NV 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.7 Luxoft Holding Inc8.7.1 Company Profile8.7.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.7.2.1 Product A8.7.2.2 Product B8.7.3 Luxoft Holding Inc 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.7.4 Luxoft Holding Inc 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.8 Harman International8.8.1 Company Profile8.8.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.8.2.1 Product A8.8.2.2 Product B8.8.3 Harman International 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.8.4 Harman International 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.9 Alpine Electronics, Inc.8.9.1 Company Profile8.9.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.9.2.1 Product A8.9.2.2 Product B8.9.3 Alpine Electronics, Inc. 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.9.4 Alpine Electronics, Inc. 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution Analysis8.10 Pioneer Corporation8.10.1 Company Profile8.10.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.10.2.1 Product A8.10.2.2 Product B8.10.3 Pioneer Corporation 2016 In-dash Navigation System Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.10.4 Pioneer Corporation 2016 In-dash Navigation System Business Region Distribution AnalysisContinued.Buy now @Contact Us:NORAH TRENTPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Sales@Wiseguyreports.ComPh: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India America Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software Market new booming trends in 2023 America Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/586 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/586 The America Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software Market Research Report provides detailed analysis of the key regional market status of the Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software Industry.Americas Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software Market Research Report, by administration software (payroll, time and attendance, benefits management and others), type of software (Recruiting, software-as-a-service (SaaS), core HR and others), By Organizations Type (Medium Businesses, Large Enterprises, Small Business), by end user (Pharmaceuticals, hospital and laboratories and other) Forecast till 2023Market Scenario:Healthcare is one of the biggest sector to collect revenue in America. Human resource software plays an important role in healthcare sector. Human resource department operates various functions like recruitment, salary hikes, vacation leaves, bonus, training, management and payment benefits management. HR software offer various benefits like document control and security. North America has the highest share of revenue in Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software Market. Human resource professionals face many problems in their attempt to deliver the superior-quality health care to citizen. These is because of lack of budget, high rates of turnover and low morale of health personnel.Get Sample Copy @In North America, Canada and USA are the most important countries to contribute the Healthcare HR software market. Because of lot of funding these country are leading in the HR software market. Canadian Healthcare system is publicly funded and divided into several groups like provincial and territorial governments, the federal government, physicians, nurses and allied health care professionals. The need to reduce the labour costs in hospital, increase in operational efficiency are the major factors for the growth of this market in America. North America share the total 65% of the global healthcare software market.Key Players for Human Resources Software MarketIBM Corporation (U.S.), Infor, Inc. (U.S.), BambooHR (US), Oracle Corporation (U.S.), Kronos, Inc. (U.S.), McKesson Corporation (U.S.), Gusto (US), Halogen Software Inc(Canada), SumTotal Systems Inc. (US), Zenefits Z2 (US), and Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (U.S.).SegmentationHR software market has been segmented on the basis of administration software which are payroll, time and attendance, benefits management and others. On the basis of type of software like Recruiting, software-as-a-service (SaaS), core HR and others. By Organizations Type, Medium Businesses, Large Enterprises, Small Business. By user end, they are Pharmaceuticals, hospital and laboratories and other. By countries it is segmented as Canada, USA and Rest of America.Study Objectives Americas Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software MarketTo provide detail analysis of market structure with the forecast for next 6 years of the various segments of Americas Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Software Market.To provide the detail information about drivers and factors restraining the market growth.To provide the key players and their role in HR software market.To provide the trends and opportunities in HR software market.To analyze the market by porters five force analysis, price analysis etc.To provide the analysis of market for segments by type administration software, development model, user end and region.To provide the detail analysis about the market in Canada, USA and Rest of America.American Healthcare Human Resources Software Market, by CountriesNorth America is the largest market for the healthcare human resource software market. This is because of development in healthcare sector. Among this Canada and USA are the two most important countries for healthcare human resource software market. USA has the highest share in North America followed by Canada.Ask Question to Expert atTable Of Contents1 INTRODUCTION1.1 DEFINITION1.2 SCOPE OF STUDY1.2.1 RESEARCH OBJECTIVE1.2.2 ASSUMPTIONS & LIMITATIONS1.2.2.1 ASSUMPTIONS1.2.2.2 LIMITATIONS1.3 MARKET STRUCTURE:2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY2.1 RESEARCH PROCESS:2.2 PRIMARY RESEARCH2.3 SECONDARY RESEARCH:3 MARKET DYNAMICS3.1 DRIVERS3.2 RESTRAINTS3.3 OPPORTUNITIES3.4 MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS4 MARKET FACTOR ANALYSIS4.1 PORTERS FIVE FORCES MODEL4.2 BARGAINING POWER OF SUPPLIERS4.3 BARGAINING POWER OF BUYERS4.4 THREAT OF NEW ENTRANTS4.5 THREAT OF SUBSTITUTES4.6 INTENSITY OF RIVALRYAbout 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 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comMRFR has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.Our Research Analysts are eager to share their knowledge and assist you in refining market research parameters, choosing right market studies, and evaluating both the market scope and the research methodologies of varied segments.We bridge the gap between our clients and their clients by identifying and decoding just the target group, while generating leads with the highest accuracy.Years of research into diverse fields of work has ingrained within us, a proficiency so distinguished that our industry-specific specialists identify with your business ideas and feel the pulse of your challenges and opportunities. This enables us for providing assistance, through our consulting and strategic consulting services, in informed managerial decision making. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industries, WantStats Research and Media often conducts industrial visits for its research analysts. Relevant inputs from various established market participants, help our clients make significant contribution in respective markets are a huge motivation for all of us to endlessly furnish quality. We depend greatly on profound insights into complex realms of our study.Pune, India Automotive HVAC Market Analysis, Trends, Opportunities, Demand & Global Forecast 2022 Automotive HVAC Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2113 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/automotive-hvac-market-2113 Market Highlights:Automotive HVAC is a system combining three major functions such as heating, ventilation and air- conditioning. Factors such as increasing demand for thermal insulations for energy efficient applications, and growth in the automotive sector are driving the market of Automotive HVAC. Recent trend shows that Companies, such as Audi, Mercedes, and BMW, focus on customized and consumer-friendly HVAC systems and supports automatic air conditioning, fogging sensor, and automatic climate control system. Moreover, Due to least level of human intervention, the automatic HVAC system are being installed in large extent, especially in premium and luxury segment passenger vehicles. Additionally, R&D focuses on automotive HVAC market for improving fuel efficiency, reducing environmental effect and lowering the weight of HVAC system. Government initiatives acts as a driving factor for the growth of Automotive HVAC market. Awareness about the environment in countries such as China and India lead to the growth of Automotive HVAC market.Request a Sample Copy @Key Players of Automotive HVAC Market: Denso Corp Valeo SA Behr GmbH Halla Climate Control Corp. Delphi Automotive Visteon Corp. Sanden Corp. Air International Thermal Systems Calsonic Kansei DelStar TechnologiesMarket Research Analysis:The Asia-Pacific region dominating the market of Automotive HVAC. Presence of automobile manufacturers and growing demand for automobiles in developing countries such as China and India. Increasing adoption of premium automobile brands in developing nation such as India and Brazil provides growth opportunities for industry players. Whereas, Japan referred as one of the largest automobile manufacturing companies in the world such as Toyota and Honda. Increasing production capacities, investment in R&D and requirement for hybrid technology drive the HVAC automotive market. Moreover, favorable government policies pushing the market towards growth. Moreover, demand for effective thermal systems in electric and hybrid powertrains. Vehicles require low-temperature cooling equipment along with normal equipment for regulated battery cooling. Whereas, increasing vehicle production and stringent government regulations to encourage the energy efficiency are driving the market in North America.Brief TOC:1 Market Introduction1.1 Introduction1.2 Scope of Study1.2.1 Research Objective1.2.2 Assumptions1.2.3 Limitations1.3 Market Structure:1.3.1 Global Automotive Hvac Market: By Technology1.3.2 Global Automotive Hvac Market: By Vehicle Type1.3.5 Global Automotive Hvac Market: By Region2 Research Methodology2.1 Research Technology2.2 Primary Researchpt2.3 Secondary Research2.4 Forecast Model2.4.1 Market Data Collection, Analysis & Forecast2.4.2 Market Size Estimation2.4.3 Market Crackdown & Data Triangulation3 Market Dynamics3.1 Introduction3.2 Market Drivers3.3 Market Challenges3.4 Market Opportunities4 Executive Summary5 Market Factor Analysis5.1 Porters Five Forces Analysis5.2 Supply Chain AnalysisContinueScope of the Report:This study provides an overview of the global Automotive HVAC industry, tracking three market segments across four geographic regions. The report studies key players, providing a five-year annual trend analysis that highlights market size, volume and share for North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World. The report also provides a forecast, focusing on the market opportunities for the next five years for each region. The scope of the study segments the global Automotive HVAC market as type, component, and application. On the basis of technology it is segmented as manual and automatic. On the basis of Vehicle type it is segmented as passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle. On the basis of component it is segmented as pipes, ducts and others.Access 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.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Automotive Metal Stamping Market Growth, Trends, Industry Analysis & Global Forecast 2022 Automotive Metal Stamping Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2002 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/automotive-metal-stamping-market-2002 Market Scenario:Metal stamping is a process in which metals are punched to achieve the desired shape. The process is performed with the help of stamping dies. The Metals used in automotive metal stamping are aluminium, steel, brass, copper and stainless steel.The growth of global automotive metal stamping market is expected to be driven by the booming automotive industry and the rapid increase in demand for smart automobiles. The increase in competition in the automotive industry is also leading to the rising demand of the metal stamping market. The process of metal stamping is applied in various stages of manufacturing in the automotive industry, such as panels, brackets, bonnets, roofs, hangers, and others, thus constantly inducing demand in the automotive metal stamping market. Increase in the use of metal sheet for the manufacturing of automobile chassis, transmission components, interior & exterior structural components, is projected to drive the growth of global automotive stamping market over the forecast period.Request for a Sample Copy @Key Players of Automotive Metal Stamping Market: Aro Metal Stamping co. (U.S.) Kenmode Precision Metal Stamping (U.S.) Martinrea International Inc. (Canada) Shiloh Industries, Inc. (U.S.) Acro Metal Stamping Co. (U.S.) Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company (U.S.) American Industrial Company (U.S.) Wisconsin Metal Parts, Inc. (U.S.) Clow Stamping Co. (U.S.)Regional Analysis of Automotive Metal Stamping Market:The metal stamping market in North America and Europe region is expected to grow, owing to the growing automotive industry in the region. The emerging trend of replacing the ferrous materials with the non-ferrous materials for reducing the weight of the machinery, is further driving the market in the region. North America region is also expected to grow further due to the existence of major players such as Kenmode Precision Metal Stamping, and Wisconsin Metal Parts, Inc. in the region.Brief TOC:1 Executive Summary2 Research Methodology2.1 Scope of the Study2.1.1 Definition2.1.2 Research Objective2.1.3 Assumptions2.1.4 Limitations2.2 Research Process2.2.1 Primary Research2.2.2 Secondary Research2.3 Market size Estimation2.4 Forecast Model3 Market Dynamics3.1 Market Drivers3.2 Market Inhibitors3.3 Supply/Value Chain Analysis3.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis4 Global Automotive Metal Stamping Market, By Technology4.1 Blanking4.2 Embossing4.3 Flanging4.4 Bending4.3 Coining4.4 OthersContinueBrowse Full Report @About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Piston Market - Industry Analysis, Trends, Future Growth & Worldwide Forecast 2022 Piston Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2436 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/piston-market-2436 Market Scenario:A piston is an important component of automobile internal combustion engine, which transfers power within the cylinder of vehicle and delivers energy to the crankshaft after each power stroke during the cycle of an engine.The booming automotive industry is directly leading to the growth of the piston market. High end-bikes require a double engine cylinder consisting of two pistons. Therefore, the increase in demand of high end automobiles is leading to the increase in demand of pistons. Light weight pistons help in achieving fuel efficiency in automobile users. Thus, the rapid increase in the fuel prices is leading to the increased use of light weight pistons, thereby leading to the growth of the market.The growth of the market can be restrained by the emergence of electric vehicles, which do not require pistons.Request for Sample Copy @Regional Analysis:Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow the highest with the increasing number of vehicles in developing nations such as India and China. The growth of the piston market in the Asia-Pacific region is due to the increasing per capita income of the individuals here, which is leading to the adoption of high-end automobiles, thus increasing the use of pistons. Prevalence of major automobile manufacturers in the region is also contributing to the growth of the piston market.Key Players:The key players of global piston market are Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. (Japan), Federal-Mogul Corporation (U.S.), Rheinmetall Automotive AG (Germany), MAHLE GmbH (Germany), Arias Pistons Ltd (U.K.), Shandong BinzhouBohai Piston Co., Ltd. (China), Burgess-Norton Mfg. Co., Inc. (U.S.), Ming Shun Industrial Co. Ltd (Taiwan), Ross Racing Pistons (U.S.), Shriram Pistons and Rings ltd. (India) and others..Browse Full Report @About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Market Research FutureOffice No. 524/528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Opportunities on the Global Markets for E-Cigarette & Vaporizer e-cigarette brands, e-cigarette Market, e-cigarette brands, e-cigarette market growth https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/788 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/e-cigarette-vaporizer-market-788 Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer Market Research Report - Forecast to 2027For Increase health awareness , MRFR has segmented The Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer market into product type. On the basis of product type, the market is differentiated into disposable e-cigarette, rechargeable e-cigarette, ego and tanks, personal vaporizers and mods and others.Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer MarketGlobal E-Cigarette & Vaporizer Market by product types (disposable e-cigarette, rechargeable e-cigarette, ego and tanks, personal vaporizers and mods and others): forecast to 2027The E-Cigarette (Electronic Cigarette) was first introduced in the year 2003, by Hon Lik in China and was available commercially in the market by 2006. The recognition of e-cigarettes touched instant base with the US and European markets. Since then this industry has been growing at a rapid pace convincing players from Tobacco industry and Pharmaceutical industry to implement several strategies to grow and sustain in the market.While top established tobacco players are securing their market positions with acquisitions and rolling out new brands. The Pharmaceutical monoliths have been acknowledged as opposing the rising trend of e-cigarettes in this fresh or fledgling market.Request for Sample Report @Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer Market: Market Growth InfluencerThe Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer market has been mainly driven by a flurry of activities mainly including Mergers & Acquisitions, Patent Warfare, and increasing customization in products. Additionally, the emergence of Vape shops is engaging more users through their extensive variety of products and improved assistance while shopping the preferred products. However, the state and local governments proposals to charge heavy taxes on e-cigarettes is emerging as a key challenge for the Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer market. Also, the compatibility issues and the unfettered manufacturing process in China are other restrictive factors in the e-cigarette market. The e-cigarette industry has come into limelight after 2012, when the tobacco giant Lorillard acquired the US based e-cigarette company, Blu Ecigs. The market was then taken over by the top tobacco giants through a series of mergers & acquisitions which has brought immediate value to the fledgling market. The giants of tobacco companies has started competing aggressively by acquiring the top e-cigarettes brands and rolled out their own brands in the market with newer and advanced technological products. Furthermore, an overall non-uniformity of regulation and taxation policies has allowed large number of players to enter into the market.Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer Market: Regional AnalysisAsia-Pacific- Asia Pacific prolongs to be the manufacturing center for e-cigarette industry, making the region a predictable player in the supply side. More than 78% of the global production of e-liquids and e-cigarettes is done in China. On the other hand, a major share of the production and manufacturing are meant for export to the US and European market. Many Asian countries are ranked very high in the global tobacco consumption and the government is taking initiatives to bring turn down in such countrys smoking population.North America- North America is considered as the largest revenue generator in the Global E-cigarette market, with a major share contributed by the US. The relentless growth of the market can be primarily credited to the non-uniformity of regulations and the growing perception of e-cigarettes as possible smoking Cessation aid. Moreover, the study of the competitive landscape in the US has brought forward the occurrence of some of the giant e-cigarette brands which are rolled out by tobacco giants such as Philip Morris, Altria, and Lorrilard and among others.Browse Complete Report @Table of Content.1 INTRODUCTION.1.1 DEFINITION1.2 SCOPE OF THE STUDY1.2.1 RESEARCH OBJECTIVE1.2.2 ASSUMPTIONS1.2.3 LIMITATIONS1.3 MARKET STRUCTURE2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY2.1 RESEARCH PROCESS2.2 PRIMARY RESEARCH2.3 SECONDARY RESEARCH2.4 MARKET SIZE ESTIMATION2.5 FORECAST MODEL3 GLOBAL E-CIGARETTE & VAPORIZER MARKET : OVERVIEW3.1 INTRODUCTION OF GLOBAL E-CIGARETTE & VAPORIZER MARKET3.1.1 DEFINITION OF GLOBAL E-CIGARETTE & VAPORIZER MARKET3.1.2 MARKET SEGMENTATION OF GLOBAL E-CIGARETTE & VAPORIZER MARKET3.1.2.1 MARKET SEGMENTATION ON THE BASIS OF PRODUCT TYPE4 MARKET DYNAMICS.4.1 DRIVERS4.2 RESTRAINTS4.3 OPPORTUNITIES4.4 MEGA TRENDS4.5 MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS4.7 IMPORTANT POINTERS BY INDUSTRY EXPERTSGlobal E-Cigarette & Vaporizer Market: Key PlayersThe key players present in the Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer Market Include :Altria GroupBallantyne BrandsBritish American Tobacco Plc (Bat)CB DistributorsBull SmokeCigavette, Clearette Electronic Cigarette CoCloudcig, Gamucci Electronic CigarettesElectronic Cigarettes International GroupFontem VenturesFin Branding Group LLC and others.Market Research Future introduces about Global E-Cigarette & Vaporizer Market during the forecast period 2017-2027 which mainly includes the growth drivers, trends and restraints and how the market will grow in the future across the globe. In this report, Market Research Future has focused on the current market scenario which includes market segmentation, market dynamics, and competitive landscape along with company profiles.Every 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.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 Automotive Wiring Harness Market Is Predicted To Grow At A CAGR Of 5.6% By 2023 Automotive Wiring Harness Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2408 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/automotive-wiring-harness-market-2408 Market Highlights:The automotive wiring harness market growth is majorly driven by the booming automotive industry and increased income levels of people in the Asia-Pacific region. Countries like China, India and Thailand are registering huge sales in the automotive sector and there is a pressing demand to meet the stringent vehicle emission norms in the countries. Also, the increased sales of two wheeler segment in the region is also adding to the drivers of the wiring harness market. However, the growth of this market can be restrained by the cost of the technology and the continuous research and development that is needed to update the system.Request for Sample Copy @Market Research Analysis:Globally, the automobile sector has been witnessing increased sales in the recent years. This is mainly due to the increased purchase capacity of the Asia-Pacific region. Additionally, wiring harness of automobiles have gained prominence in recent years because of increased demand for the fuel efficient as well as reduced emission vehicles and rising demand for passenger vehicles.The Asia-Pacific region is expected to be the largest market for automobile wiring harness especially because of countries like China, Thailand and India in the region. The wiring harness market in North America and Europe is driven by the strong aftersales market in the regions. Global manufacturers are required by law to reduce the emission from automotive engines and also increase cleaner burning of fuels. All these factors are contributing to the growth of the automotive wiring harness market.Scope of the Report:This study provides an overview of the global automotive wiring harness market, tracking three market segments across four geographic regions. The report studies key players, providing a five-year annual trend analysis that highlights market size, volume and share for North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC) and Rest of the World (ROW). The report also provides a forecast, focusing on the market opportunities for the next five years for each region. The scope of the study segments the Global automotive wiring harness market by vehicle type, material type, applications and regions.By Vehicle Type Passenger Car Light Motor Vehicles Heavy Motor Vehicle OthersBy Material Type Copper Aluminium OthersBy Application Engine HVAC Body Chassis Sensors OthersBrowse Full Report @Key Players:The key players of global automotive wiring harness markets includes Delphi Corporation, Yazaki Corporation, Leoni Group, Sumito Electric Industries, Furukawa Electric, Fujikura Ltd, PKC Group, SPARK MINDA, THB Group, Yura Corporation and among others.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Market Research FutureOffice No. 524/528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Smart Factory Market: Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-446 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/press-release/smart-factory-market https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/smart-factory-market https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/smart-factory-market/toc http://www.futuremarketinsights.com According to the latest market report published by Future Market Insights titled, Smart Factory Market - Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2015-2025, the market was valued at US$ 51.9 Bn in 2014 and is expected to register a CAGR of 13.3% from 2015 to 2025.Growth of the smart factory market is primarily driven by rising focus on advanced manufacturing techniques. Furthermore, developments in information and communications technology (ICT), increased focus on energy consumption, rising prices and stringent environmental regulations are expected to be key factors driving growth of the smart factory market over the forecast period.FMIs report segments the global smart factory market on the basis of market structure, component, manufacturing vertical, and region. Market structure includes to collect, to connect, to analyse and to control. A detailed analysis of each segment is presented in the report to deliver an accurate view of the market.Sample With Latest Advancements @On the basis of manufacturing vertical, the smart factory market is further segmented into automotive & transportation, food & beverages, electrical & electronics, aerospace & defence, oil & gas, garment & textile, chemical and others (healthcare & pharmaceutical).Among these, the automotive & transportation segment dominated the global smart factory market in terms of revenue contribution in 2014. Growth of this segment is primarily driven by increasing investments by leading automobile manufacturers. For example, in September 2015, German luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz announced an investment of US$ 1.3 Bn to expand and upgrade its SUV manufacturing unit in Alabama, U.S. This expansion would add 300 new jobs and support end-to-end digitalization of the production process as a part of the companys smart factory initiative.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @This report also covers trends driving growth of each market segment and offers analysis and insights about market potential across key regions namely North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC) and the Middle East & Africa. Furthermore, the market is sub-segmented on the basis of major countries in each region in order to provide a regional analysis of the overall market.Browse the full "Smart Factory Market - Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2015-2025" market research report atAsia Pacific was the largest revenue contributor to the global smart factory market, accounting for US$ 20.4 Bn in 2014. This is mainly attributed to increasing investment in manufacturing plants in the region. For example, in April 2015, the South Korean government along with Samsung Electronics announced an investment of US$ 12.6 Mn to promote the smart factory concept in the country.Browse Our Table of Content @Smart factory market in Europe accounted for US$ 14.7 Bn in 2014and is expected to register a CAGR of 14.3% during the forecast period. Growth of the market in this region is expected to be driven by increasing government support for development of innovative production technologies in countries such as Germany and the U.K. Also, increasing spending by key players is expected to further drive growth of the market in Europe.Smart Factory Market: Major PlayersKey players in the global smart factory market include ABB Group, Rockwell Automation, Inc., General Electric Co., Siemens AG, Oracle Corporation, IBM Corporation, SAP SE, PTC Inc., Accenture PLC and Atos SE. These players focus on mergers and acquisitions, new product launches, expansions and partnerships in order to remain competitive in the market. A competitive dashboard has also been included in the report to provide detailed information about key players in the market.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.FMIs team of over 200 research analysts provides market intelligence at global, regional, and country level. Our analysts are committed to provide independent insights, relying on our cognitive defusion training module, which conditions them to look at data objectively and unbiasedly.ContactFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesUSA T: +1-347-918-3531Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: Shrimp Market: Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1838 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/press-release/shrimp-market https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/shrimp-market/toc http://www.futuremarketinsights.com Future Market Insights new report titled Shrimp Market: Global Industry Analysis (2012-2016) and Opportunity Assessment (2017-2027) studies the overall performance of the highly competitive global shrimp market for the assessment period of 10 years. The global shrimp market is anticipated to expand at a significant CAGR over the forecast period and APEJ is likely to dominate the market by grabbing maximum revenue share during the assessed 10 year period. Revenue from the global shrimp market is estimated at US$ 39.1 Bn in 2017, and is expected to reach US$ 67.5 Bn by the end of 2027. Sales revenue is projected to register a CAGR of 5.6% between 2017 and 2027.Key Regulations by the European Union and FDA in the Global Shrimp MarketShrimps need a health certificate confirming they meet the export standards prescribed by the European Union. This certificate is delivered by the respective governments of countries in the European Union following a harmonised templateShrimps can only be imported into the EU if they have been dispatched from, obtained or prepared in approved establishments (cold store, processing plant, factory or freezer vessels), so these facilities must be inspected and approved by the government (Ministry of Agriculture, Health, Commerce, etc.)Sample With Latest Advancements @The Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) Division of Seafood Safety examines and appraises the implementation of seafood regulations, domestic and foreign programs, and bilateral agreements; reviews industry petitions and regulatory actions; and, provides scientific/technical support, training, evaluation and certification for state and international shellfish programsThe country of origin must appear on the list of countries that can export fishery products to the EU. This list is based on an assessment by the EU Food and Veterinary Office for compliance with European health standards for fishery productsGlobal Shrimp Market: Forecast by Distribution ChannelThe distribution channel segment of the global shrimp market includes direct sales and indirect sales. Indirect sales is projected to be the most attractive distribution channel in the global shrimp market during the forecast period. The indirect sales segment is estimated to account for a relatively high value share of 50.8% by 2017 end, and is anticipated to register a CAGR of 4.9% in terms of value over the forecast period. High consumption of shrimps through direct sales is expected to drive revenue growth of the related segment over the forecast period.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @Global Shrimp Market: Forecast by ApplicationIn terms of application, the food segment will hold dominance in the global shrimp market with a projected market value share of almost 75% by the end of 2027. The food segment will also register the highest segmental CAGR of 6.3% in terms of value during the forecast period.Global Shrimp Market: Forecast by FormIncreasing consumption of on-the-go food products among the working population in urban regions is expected to reduce demand for the cooked form over the forecast period. The frozen form will remain market leader in this segment, anticipated to hold more than 40% market share by the end of 2027.Global Shrimp Market: Forecast by SpeciesFarmed whiteleg shrimps will remain the most favoured species throughout the forecast period and revenue from this segment is anticipated to reach about US$ 14 Bn by the end of 2017. High preference for glaze and sweet taste by consumers in North America and Western Europe is expected to boost the demand for giant tiger shrimps over the forecast period.Browse Our Table of Content @Global Shrimp Market: Forecast by SourceIn terms of value, the warm water shrimps segment is projected to be the most attractive in the global shrimp market during the forecast period. The warm water shrimps segment is estimated to account for a value share of almost 50% by 2017 end, and is anticipated to register CAGR of 5.4% in terms of value over the forecast period.Global Shrimp Market: Forecast by RegionThe APEJ region is projected to be the most attractive regional market in the global shrimp market during the forecast period, leaving both North America and Western Europe behind in terms of revenue contribution. The APEJ shrimp market is projected to reach a market valuation of about US$ 26 Bn by the end of 2027, witnessing a CAGR of 6.2% during the period of study.Global Shrimp Market: Competitive LandscapeCharoen Pokphand Food PCL, Maruha Nichiro Corporation, Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd., High Liner Foods Inc., Royal Greenland A/S, Wild Planet Foods Inc., The Clover Leaf Seafoods Family, Blue Star Seafood Co. Ltd., Ocean America Food SA, Rich Products Corporation, DNI Group LLC, Surapon Foods Public Company Limited, Siam Canadian Group Limited, Sirena A/S, Trident Seafoods Corporation, International fishing farming holding company PJSC-Asmak, Morubel and Pacific Seafood Group are some of the key players operating in the global shrimp market, which have been profiled in the report.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.FMIs team of over 200 research analysts provides market intelligence at global, regional, and country level. Our analysts are committed to provide independent insights, relying on our cognitive defusion training module, which conditions them to look at data objectively and unbiasedly.ContactFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesUSA T: +1-347-918-3531Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: Bluetooth In Automotive Market Is Expected To Reach USD 1, 09,979.0 Million By 2023 Bluetooth Automotive Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1262 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/bluetooth-in-automotive-market-1262 Market Highlights;Bluetooth is wireless communication standard, which allows electronic devices to connect and interact with each other. It can be found in a range of gadgets such as smartphones, loudspeakers, laptops and cars. The automotive industry is a steadily growing market for Bluetooth technology. Devices that are Bluetooth compatible should be in close proximity to each other and they can take part in wireless, two way communication. Bluetooth in automotive allows users to access their cell phones through the in car infotainment system. Evidently, in recent years, global major automakers are offering Bluetooth as a factory installed feature. Using Bluetooth in infotainment systems would allow passengers and drivers to listen to music and information while driving. In addition to that, once connected to Bluetooth, drivers can use apps to navigate, check traffic, view latest weather report, and look for information such as movie times and restaurant locations. Overall, the use of Bluetooth technology improves driving experience.Request for a Sample Copy @Key Players:The major player operating in the market of global bluetooth in automotive are Nordic Semiconductor, Texas instruments, QUALCOMM Incorporated, Broadcom Corporation, MediaTek Inc, Pioneer Corporation, Fihonest Communication Co., Ltd, Hosiden Corporation, Silicon Laboratories, IVT Corporation and others.Market Research Future Analysis:The global Bluetooth in automotive market is a very dynamic and is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. The growth of the Bluetooth in automotive market is majorly influenced by the growing demand for smartphone features in cars and other vehicles. Furthermore, the use of Bluetooth enables analysis of vehicle diagnostics, which enhances the safety of vehicles. However, the limitations of coverage and slow data transfer of Bluetooth technology coupled with poor security of Bluetooth operations, are hindering the growth of Bluetooth in automotive market.Currently, Asia-Pacific is dominating the market with increasing vehicle production in countries such as India and China and the increasing production capacity. The market in the developing countries is largely driven by economic growth and ongoing industrialization, which is likely to lead to considerable production of motor vehicles and other manufacturing output.Brief TOC:1 Executive Summary2 Introduction2.1 Definition2.2 Scope of the Study2.1 Assumptions2.2 Market Structure3 Research Methodology3.1 Research Process3.2 Primary Research3.3 Secondary Research3.4 Market Size Estimation3.5 Forecast Model4 Market Dynamics4.1 Introduction4.2 Drivers4.2.1 Growing demand for smartphone features in Cars4.2.2 Vehicle Diagnostic data update4.2.3 Enabling cross industry cooperation between Telecommunication and Automobile industry4.3 Restraints4.3.1 Bluetooth coverage limitation and slow data transfer4.3.2 Poor security of Bluetooth technology4.4 Opportunities4.4.1 A step stone for Autonomous Vehicles4.4.2 Increased access with cheap priceContinueAccess 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.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by Components, Application, Technologies and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Market Research FutureOffice No. 524/528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com X Band Radar Market: Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-879 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/x-band-radar-market https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/press-release/x-band-radar-market https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/x-band-radar-market/toc http://www.futuremarketinsights.com According to a new market report published by Future Market Insights titled X-Band Radar Market - Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2016 - 2026, the global X-band radar market was valued at US$ 4.6 Bn in 2015 and is expected to register a CAGR of 3.8% from 2016 to 2026 to reach US$ 6.9 Bn by 2026. Growth of the global X-band radar market is primarily driven by increasing need of advanced security and surveillance systems across the world.Increasing significance of weather and climate predictions, and aviation safety is propelling the demand for X-band radar market globally. X-band radars help improve aviation safety and increase the operational efficiency of the entire air transport industry. Besides, they also provide alerts on floods through continuous monitoring of rainfall. Vendors such as Saab Group and Northrop Grumman Corporation recently introduced weather monitoring radar.Sample With Latest Advancements @Inability to adjust quickly to track a stream of separate missiles is one of the factors restraining the growth of the market. Sea-based X-band radar can be supported by a land-based early warning radar in case of an event of an attack. These radars could help X-band radars by identifying a definite location for Sea-based X-band Radar (SBX) to focus on. However, aiming and re-aiming the giant radars beam is a clumsy process. This inhibits X-band radars ability to bend swiftly enough to track a range of different missiles.On the basis of type, the global X-band radar market is segmented as mobile X-band radar and sea based-X-band radar. The mobile X-band radar segment was valued US$ 3.1 Bn in 2015 and is anticipated to register a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period 20162026. The sea-based X-band radar segment was valued US$ 1.5 Bn in 2015.Browse the full "X-Band Radar Market - Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2016 - 2026" market research report atBrowse Our Press Releases For More Information @X-Band Radar Market: Region-wise SegmentationNorth America, the largest market for X-Band radar, was valued US$ 1.5 Bn in 2015and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period of 2016-2026. In North America region, ARL-E long range radars developed by Northrop Grumman Corporation have witnessed traction in their adoption by the U.S. government. These radars have enhanced the U.S. Armys C4ISR capabilities.Western Europe region is expected be the second largest market of global X-band radar, followed by Eastern Europe. Ground Master 400 radar, developed by the Raytheon Company is very popular in this region.Browse Our Table of Content @Key Players in X-Band Radar MarketKey players of the global X-band radar market include Northrop Grumman Corporation, Raytheon Company, Saab Group, Japan Radio Company Limited, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd, Furuno Electric Co.,Ltd, Terma A/S, Detect, Inc., Reutech Radar Systems, and ProSensing, Inc.Leading players in the global x-band radar market are focusing on the development of end-to-end products and services such as logistics, infrastructure and maintenance, and providing support to their clients. Companies such as Saab Group, Raytheon Corporation, DeTect, Inc. serve both domestic and international government customers as a prime contractor and subcontractor of defence and related programmes.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.FMIs team of over 200 research analysts provides market intelligence at global, regional, and country level. Our analysts are committed to provide independent insights, relying on our cognitive defusion training module, which conditions them to look at data objectively and unbiasedly.ContactFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesUSA T: +1-347-918-3531Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: GPS Tracker Market: Future Demand and Growth Analysis https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-4723 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/gps-tracker-market https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/gps-tracker-market/toc http://www.futuremarketinsights.com New application areas and increasing utilisation of drones and autonomous cars are trending the global GPS tracker marketWestern EuropeNew applications of GPS trackers are developing in Western Europe. The use of GPS tracking in laser aimed darts is a novel concept which got success after its testing. Such areas of applications, getting developed successfully and now need to be brought to light to the population. For instance, In June 2017, the police in Waterloo, Belgium used GPS trackers to track a truck. The police found the laser-aimed darts a safer alternative to chase. This innovative technology was deployed for the first time.Eastern EuropeGPS tracking is still in introductory stages of its application in the aviation industry. The delay in delivery of correct piece of information is a major drawback of this application, which is particularly critical in regions like Eastern Europe, where pilots have to operate in regions with unstable connection. This is motivating the several companies to launch high standard GPS trackers that could be helpful in aviation industry. In February 2017, UTair-Helicopter services, a Russian helicopter operator, launched GPS tracking over its entire fleet. These trackers monitor aircraft movements and thus work towards improving the aircraft safety.Sample With Latest Advancements @Latin AmericaThe rising imports and exports between countries bolsters the market growth for GPS trackers. The amount of cargos transported between countries is witnessing a fast growth which create an inevitable need for fleet management solutions to ensure the safe delivery of goods. These needs create an opportunity for a strong growth potential in the global GPS trackers market. According to World Bank, the exports and imports of goods from Brazil and Mexico increased significantly from 2010 to 2016.APEJApart from the traditional usage of GPS trackers in vehicles for navigation, umpteenth of new areas of applications are developing. One of the emerging area of development is in nabbing of criminals by the police department. In July 2017, Police officers in India used a small, discreet GPS tracker called the Track 247 Mini-Tracker developed by a local Indian developer. The device was used to track suspects in a special case. Further, satisfied with the results, the police asked the developer to provide them 50 more mini-trackersBrowse Our Report @JapanGPS is critical to the development of new applications like drones and self-driving cars, which has become an indispensable part of population especially in the developed regions like Japan where people lead a luxurious life yet are very much concerned about their safety.MEAThe increasing amount of goods transported between the countries mainly the UAE and gulf countries is one of the primary driver for the growth of GPS tracker market in MEA. Due to rising transport, companies providing fleet management solutions.North AmericaAdvanced tracking in high value air cargos is still a nascent technology which needs careful handling. The transportation of valuables like pharmaceuticals and temperature sensitive electronics, needs to be monitored throughout the journey very carefully. The trackers used for such purposes are undergoing extensive R&D, with the launch of successful trackers are expected to increase the demand for trackers in the near future.Browse Our Table of Content @Advanced Trackers segment is anticipated to exhibit high market attractiveness index over the forecast periodIn terms of value, advanced trackers segment is projected to be the most attractive in the global GPS tracker market during the forecast period. OBD trackers segment is expected to register moderate Y-o-Y growth rate throughout the forecast period. In terms of value, this segment is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period. In 2017, advanced trackers segment is estimated to be valued more than US$ 445 Mn and is expected to witness steady growth in terms of revenue throughout the forecast period.About UsFuture 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 centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.FMIs team of over 200 research analysts provides market intelligence at global, regional, and country level. Our analysts are committed to provide independent insights, relying on our cognitive defusion training module, which conditions them to look at data objectively and unbiasedly.ContactFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesUSA T: +1-347-918-3531Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: Street and Roadway Lighting 2017 Global Market Key Players,Share,Growth,Trends,Size,Analysis & Forecast to 2021 Street and Roadway Lighting Industry https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2395594-2017-2022-global-and-japan-street-and-roadway-lighting-market-analysis-report https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2395594-2017-2022-global-and-japan-street-and-roadway-lighting-market-analysis-report WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Street and Roadway Lighting 2017 Global Market Key Players,Share,Growth,Trends,Size,Analysis & Forecast to 2021.This report, with focus on top players in the global and Japan, studies the Street and Roadway Lighting market's development status and future trend in the global and Japan. It splits Street and Roadway Lighting market by type and by applications to fully and deeply research and reveal market profile and prospect.The major players includeClaroLux Landscape Lighting (U.S.)Forus Electric Private Limited (India)Shenzhen GHC Co., Ltd. (China)Shenzhen HXD Lighting Co., Ltd. (China)Cree, Inc. (U.S.)Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. (U.S.)Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands)OSRAM Licht GmbH (Germany)WS Atkins plc (U.K.)MMA Lighting Consultancy Ltd. (U.K.)Lighting Reality Ltd (U.K.)General Electric Company (U.S.)Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGeographically, this report splits the Global market into the following regions:Asia PacificJapanTokyoYokohamaOsakaNagoyaOthersChinaKoreaIndiaOthersEuropeFranceGermanyUnited KingdomItalyRussiaOthersNorth AmericaUnited States.On the basis of product, the Street and Roadway Lighting market is primarily split intoBy Lighting TypeConventional LightingSmart LightingBy Light SourceLEDsFluorescent LightsHID LampsBy Wattage TypeLess than 50WBetween 50W and 150WMore than 150WBy OfferingHardwareSoftwareServicesKey ApplicationsHighwaysStreet and RoadwaysOthersReport Details @Table Of Contents Major Key Points2017-2022 Global and Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Market Analysis Report1 Street and Roadway Lighting Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Street and Roadway Lighting1.2 Global and Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Market by Applications/End Users1.2.1 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.1 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.2 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.2 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales by Application (2012-2017)1.2.3.1 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.2 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.4 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.5 Highways1.2.6 Street and Roadways1.2.7 Others1.3 Global and Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Street and Roadway Lighting (2012-2017)1.3.1 Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Street and Roadway Lighting (2012-2017)1.3.1.1 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.1.2 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.3.2 Global Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Street and Roadway Lighting (2012-2017)1.3.2.1 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.2.2 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.4 Global and Japan Classification of Street and Roadway Lighting by Lighting Type1.4.1 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.2 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.3 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.4 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.5 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Price (USD/Unit) by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.6 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Price (USD/Unit) by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.7 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales Growth Rate (%) by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.8 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales Growth Rate (%) by Lighting Type (2012-2017)1.4.9 Conventional Lighting1.4.10 Smart Lighting1.5 Global and Japan Classification of Street and Roadway Lighting by Light Source1.5.1 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Light Source (2012-2017)1.5.2 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Light Source (2012-2017)1.5.3 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Light Source (2012-2017)1.5.4 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Light Source (2012-2017)1.5.5 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Price (USD/Unit) by Light Source (2012-2017)1.5.6 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Price (USD/Unit) by Light Source (2012-2017)1.5.7 Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Sales Growth Rate (%) by Light Source (2012-2017)1.5.8 Global Street and Roadway Lighting Sales Growth Rate (%) by Light Source (2012-2017).4 Global and Japan Street and Roadway Lighting Players/Manufacturers Profiles and Sales Data4.1 ClaroLux Landscape Lighting (U.S.)4.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.1.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.1.2.1 Product A4.1.2.2 Product B4.1.3 ClaroLux Landscape Lighting (U.S.) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.2 Forus Electric Private Limited (India)4.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.2.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.2.2.1 Product A4.2.2.2 Product B4.2.3 Forus Electric Private Limited (India) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.3 Shenzhen GHC Co., Ltd. (China)4.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.3.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.3.2.1 Product A4.3.2.2 Product B4.3.3 Shenzhen GHC Co., Ltd. (China) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.4 Shenzhen HXD Lighting Co., Ltd. (China)4.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.4.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.4.2.1 Product A4.4.2.2 Product B4.4.3 Shenzhen HXD Lighting Co., Ltd. (China) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.5 Cree, Inc. (U.S.)4.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.5.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.5.2.1 Product A4.5.2.2 Product B4.5.3 Cree, Inc. (U.S.) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.6 Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. (U.S.)4.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.6.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.6.2.1 Product A4.6.2.2 Product B4.6.3 Acuity Brands Lighting, Inc. (U.S.) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.7 Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands)4.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.7.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.7.2.1 Product A4.7.2.2 Product B4.7.3 Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.8 OSRAM Licht GmbH (Germany)4.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.8.2 Street and Roadway Lighting Product Category, Application and Specification4.8.2.1 Product A4.8.2.2 Product B4.8.3 OSRAM Licht GmbH (Germany) Street and Roadway Lighting Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.8.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Global Telehealth Market Size, Status and Forecast 2022 : Cerner Corporation, Cisco Systems, Biotronik Market Research Reports https://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1046897&type=E https://www.qyresearchreports.com/report/global-telehealth-market-size-status-and-forecast-2022.htm Qyresearchreports include new market research report "Global Telehealth Market Size, Status and Forecast 2022" to its huge collection of research reports.This report studies the global Telehealth market, analyzes and researches the Telehealth development status and forecast in United States, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia. This report focuses on the top players in global market, likeAerotel Medical SystemsInTouch HealthHoneywell Life Care Solutions HealthcareMedtronicTunstall HealthcareCerner CorporationCisco SystemsGE HealthcareMckesson CorporationMedvivo GroupBiotronikMarket segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEUJapanChinaIndiaSoutheast AsiaMarket segment by Type, Telehealth can be split intoTelehealth HardwareTelehealth SoftwareOtherMarket segment by Application, Telehealth can be split intoHospitalClinicOtherIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Request for the Free Report Sample:Table of Contents1 Industry Overview of Telehealth1.1 Telehealth Market Overview1.1.1 Telehealth Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global Telehealth Market Size and Analysis by Regions1.3 Telehealth Market by Type1.4 Telehealth Market by End Users/Application2 Global Telehealth Competition Analysis by Players2.1 Telehealth Market Size (Value) by Players (2016 and 2017)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in Future3 Company (Top Players) Profiles3.1 Aerotel Medical Systems3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.1.4 Telehealth Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.1.5 Recent Developments3.2 InTouch Health3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.2.4 Telehealth Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.2.5 Recent DevelopmentsBrowse full table of contents and data tables of Report @List of Tables and FiguresFigure Telehealth Product ScopeFigure Global Telehealth Market Size (Million USD) (2012-2017)Table Global Telehealth Market Size (Million USD) and Growth Rate by Regions (2012-2017)Figure Global Telehealth Market Share by Regions in 2016Figure United States Telehealth Market Size (Million USD) and Growth Rate by Regions (2012-2017)Figure EU Telehealth Market Size (Million USD) and Growth Rate by Regions (2012-2017)Figure Japan Telehealth Market Size (Million USD) and Growth Rate by Regions (2012-2017)Figure China Telehealth Market Size (Million USD) and Growth Rate by Regions (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 uterine fibroids is growing with the CAGR of 3.24% during the forecast period from 2016-2022 uterine fibroids https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2394 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/2394 The U.S. Uterine Fibroid Market is growing with the rapid pace; mainly due the burgeoning Healthcare Sector. According to a recent study report published by the Market Research Future, The U.S. Uterine Fibroid Market is booming and expected to gain prominence over the forecast period.U.S. Uterine Fibroid Market Information by Type (Subserosal Fibroids, Intramural Fibroids, Submucosal Fibroids and others), by Diagnosis (Medical Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners, Computed Tomography (CT), Ultrasounds and others) and Treatment (Uterine Fibroid Embolization, Magnetic Resonance Guided Focused Ultrasound, Myolysis, Endometrial Ablation, Hysterectomy and Myomectomy) - Forecast to 2022Market Synopsis of U.S. Uterine Fibroid Market:Uterine Fibroids are the abnormal growth that gets developed inside or on the wall of a womans uterus. These are also known as leiomyoma or myomas. These are noncancerous growths that cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding between or during the menstrual cycle, pain in pelvis or lower back, increased menstrual cramping, swelling enlargement of the abdomen. Increasing prevalence due to heredity and rising number of treatments to cure this disease has fuelled the growth of this market.Get Sample Copy @The U.S. Market for Uterine Fibroids is expected to reach USD 39,993.2 million by the end of the forecasted period and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.24%.Some of the key players in this market are: AstraZeneca (England), Cook Medical Inc. (US), Boston Scientific Corporation (US), GE Healthcare (U.K.), AbbVie Inc. (U.S.), Hologic (U.S.), and others.Segments:U.S. Uterine Fibroid Market has been segmented on the basis of type which comprises of Subserosal Fibroids, Intramural Fibroids, Submucosal Fibroids and others. On the basis of diagnosis the market is segmented into Medical Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners, Computed tomography (CT), Ultrasounds and others. On the basis of treatment the market is segmented into Uterine Fibroid Embolization, Magnetic Resonance Guided Focused Ultrasound, Myolysis, Endometrial Ablation, Hysterectomy and Myomectomy.Key FindingThe U.S. Uterine Fibroid market and is expected to reach USD 39,993.2 million by 2022.By Type, Intramural Fibroids holds the largest market share of U.S. uterine fibroid market and is expected to reach USD 14,972.5 million by 2022.By Treatment, hysterectomy holds the largest market share of U.S. uterine fibroid market and is expected to reach USD 8,042.3 million by 2022.Ask Question to Expert atStudy Objectives U.S. Uterine Fibroid Market:To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 5 years of the various segments and sub-segments of the U.S. Uterine Fibroid MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo analyze the 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, volume, average selling price and future prospectiveTo provide overview of key players and their strategic profiling 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 U.S.Regional Analysis of U.S. Uterine Fibroid Market:The U.S. market for uterine fibroids is growing steadily. The market for uterine fibroids is growing with the CAGR of 3.24% during the forecast period from 2016-2022. California, Texas, Florida, New York are some of the states which are estimated to have highest prevalence of uterine fibroids.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 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comAsk Question to Expert atMRFR has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.Our Research Analysts are eager to share their knowledge and assist you in refining market research parameters, choosing right market studies, and evaluating both the market scope and the research methodologies of varied segments.We bridge the gap between our clients and their clients by identifying and decoding just the target group, while generating leads with the highest accuracy.Years of research into diverse fields of work has ingrained within us, a proficiency so distinguished that our industry-specific specialists identify with your business ideas and feel the pulse of your challenges and opportunities. This enables us for providing assistance, through our consulting and strategic consulting services, in informed managerial decision making. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industries, WantStats Research and Media often conducts industrial visits for its research analysts. Relevant inputs from various established market participants, help our clients make significant contribution in respective markets are a huge motivation for all of us to endlessly furnish quality. We depend greatly on profound insights into complex realms of our study.Pune, India Steel Processing Market 2017 Global Analysis By key Players ArcelorMittal, Baosteel Group Corporation, POSCO, Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal, JFE Holdings Steel Processing Market 2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2395593-2017-2022-global-and-japan-steel-processing-market-analysis-report https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2395593-2017-2022-global-and-japan-steel-processing-market-analysis-report WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Steel Processing Market 2017 Global Analysis By key Players ArcelorMittal, Baosteel Group Corporation, POSCO, Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal, JFE Holdings.This report, with focus on top players in the global and Japan, studies the Steel Processing market's development status and future trend in the global and Japan. It splits Steel Processing market by type and by applications to fully and deeply research and reveal market profile and prospect.The major players includeArcelorMittal (Luxembourg)Baosteel Group Corporation (China)POSCO (South Korea)Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation (Japan)JFE Holdings, Inc. (Japan)...Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGeographically, this report splits the Global market into the following regions:Asia PacificJapanTokyoYokohamaOsakaNagoyaOthersChinaKoreaIndiaOthersEuropeFranceGermanyUnited KingdomItalyRussiaOthersNorth AmericaUnited States.On the basis of product, the Steel Processing market is primarily split intoBy SteelAlloy steelCarbon steelBy ComponentSoftwareServicesKey ApplicationsConstructionShippingEnergyPackagingConsumer appliances industryHousingAutomotiveOthersReport Details @Table Of Contents Major Key Points2017-2022 Global and Japan Steel Processing Market Analysis Report1 Steel Processing Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Steel Processing1.2 Global and Japan Steel Processing Market by Applications/End Users1.2.1 Japan Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.1 Japan Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.2 Japan Steel Processing Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.2 Japan Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3 Global Steel Processing Sales by Application (2012-2017)1.2.3.1 Global Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.2 Global Steel Processing Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.4 Global Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.5 Construction1.2.6 Shipping1.2.7 Energy1.2.8 Packaging1.2.9 Consumer appliances industry1.2.10 Housing1.2.11 Automotive1.2.12 Others1.3 Global and Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Steel Processing (2012-2017)1.3.1 Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Steel Processing (2012-2017)1.3.1.1 Japan Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.1.2 Japan Steel Processing Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.3.2 Global Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Steel Processing (2012-2017)1.3.2.1 Global Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.2.2 Global Steel Processing Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.4 Global and Japan Classification of Steel Processing by Steel1.4.1 Japan Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.2 Global Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.3 Japan Steel Processing Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.4 Global Steel Processing Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.5 Japan Steel Processing Price (USD/Unit) by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.6 Global Steel Processing Price (USD/Unit) by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.7 Japan Steel Processing Sales Growth Rate (%) by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.8 Global Steel Processing Sales Growth Rate (%) by Steel (2012-2017)1.4.9 Alloy steel1.4.10 Carbon steel1.5 Global and Japan Classification of Steel Processing by Component1.5.1 Japan Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017)1.5.2 Global Steel Processing Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017)1.5.3 Japan Steel Processing Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017)1.5.4 Global Steel Processing Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017)1.5.5 Japan Steel Processing Price (USD/Unit) by Component (2012-2017)1.5.6 Global Steel Processing Price (USD/Unit) by Component (2012-2017)1.5.7 Japan Steel Processing Sales Growth Rate (%) by Component (2012-2017)1.5.8 Global Steel Processing Sales Growth Rate (%) by Component (2012-2017)1.5.9 Software1.5.10 Services.4 Global and Japan Steel Processing Players/Manufacturers Profiles and Sales Data4.1 ArcelorMittal (Luxembourg)4.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.1.2 Steel Processing Product Category, Application and Specification4.1.2.1 Product A4.1.2.2 Product B4.1.3 ArcelorMittal (Luxembourg) Steel Processing Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.2 Baosteel Group Corporation (China)4.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.2.2 Steel Processing Product Category, Application and Specification4.2.2.1 Product A4.2.2.2 Product B4.2.3 Baosteel Group Corporation (China) Steel Processing Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.3 POSCO (South Korea)4.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.3.2 Steel Processing Product Category, Application and Specification4.3.2.1 Product A4.3.2.2 Product B4.3.3 POSCO (South Korea) Steel Processing Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.4 Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation (Japan)4.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.4.2 Steel Processing Product Category, Application and Specification4.4.2.1 Product A4.4.2.2 Product B4.4.3 Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation (Japan) Steel Processing Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.5 JFE Holdings, Inc. (Japan)4.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.5.2 Steel Processing Product Category, Application and Specification4.5.2.1 Product A4.5.2.2 Product B4.5.3 JFE Holdings, Inc. (Japan) Steel Processing Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview...Continue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Varicocele Treatment Market 2017: Key Players Bayer, Depomed, Inc, GlaxoSmithKline plc, INSYS THERAPEUTICS, INC., Janssen Global Services, LLC and More https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/3900 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/3900 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/varicocele-treatment-market-3900 Market Research Future adds new report of Varicocele Treatment Market Research Report it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentVaricocele Treatment Market information, by grade (Grade I, Grade II, Grade III, and others), diagnosis (physical exam, imaging test, and others), by treatment (Varicocele repair, Varicocele Embolization, and others), by end user- Global forecast till 2023Get a Copy of Sample Report @Market Synopsis of Global Varicocele Treatment Market:Market Scenario:Varicocele is the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. This is most common in younger male, aged from 15-25 and occurs in approximately one in six males.Increasing prevalence of varicocele, increasing awareness of the disease, rising healthcare expenditure, advanced diagnosis and treatment options are driving the growth of global varicocele treatment market.Global varicocele treatment market is expected to grow at the CAGR of ~6.2% during the forecast period and is estimated to reach USD 617.5 million by 2023.SegmentationGlobal Varicocele treatment market has been segmented on the basis of grade which comprises of grade I, grade II, grade III, and others.On the basis of diagnosis it is segmented into physical exam, imaging test, and others. Imaging test further sub-segmented into thermography, scrotal ultrasound, and othersOn the basis of treatments, the market has been segmented into varicocele repair, varicocele embolization, medication, and others. Varicocele repair is sub-segmented into open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, percutaneous embolization, and others. Medication is sub-segmented into painkillers, and others. Painkillers includes acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and others.On the basis of end user, it is segmented into hospital and clinics, medical research centers, academic institutes, and others.Get more information of Reports @Key players of Global Varicocele Treatment (OVD) Market:Some of the key players in this market are:Bayer (Germany)Depomed, IncGlaxoSmithKline plcINSYS THERAPEUTICS, INC.Janssen Global ServicesLLC (Belgium) Mylan N.VNovartis AG (Switzerland)PurduePharmaPfizer Inc.The report for Global Varicocele Treatment 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 deeper insight to the market and industry performance. The report gives a clear picture of the 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 regionsKey findingThe global Varicocele Treatment (OVDs) market is growing at a growth rate of 11.59% during the period 2017-2023. Increasing prevalence of cataract and glaucoma surgeries, advances in the Varicocele Treatment, and the increasing diabetic population are some of the major factors responsible for market growth.Currently, cohesive OVDs accounts for the largest market share in the global scenario due to their advantages and long history. They are easily removed from the eye, they have high molecular weight and high viscosity, making them the perfect agent for maintaining the space. There has been significant growth in the demand for the cohesive OVDs.Johnson & Johnson, Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Bausch & Lomb, Carl Zeiss AG are some of the prominent market players in the Varicocele Treatment (OVDs) market.Regional AnalysisOn regional basis, North America has the largest market of Varicocele Treatment. Due to the increasing diabetic and obese population in this region, these have become a major driving factor for this markets growth. Moreover increasing governments support has also lead to the growth of this market. Europe is the second largest market due to increasing aging population and technological advances here. Emerging economies like India and China in Asia-Pacific region has provided to be a fuel for the growth of this market here. Middle East and Africa contributes less to this markets growth.Browse Full Report @Major TOC for Varicocele Treatment Market:Research methodologyMarket dynamicsMarket factor analysisGlobal Varicocele Treatment market, by typeGlobal Varicocele Treatment market, by treatmentGlobal Varicocele Treatment market, by end userGlobal Varicocele Treatment market, by regionCompetitive landscapeCompany profileConclusionAbout Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for North America, 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 questionsContact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) 2017 Global Market Outlook,Research,Trends and Forecast to 2022 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2395590-2017-2022-global-and-japan-automatic-dependent-surveillance-broadcast-ads-b https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2395590-2017-2022-global-and-japan-automatic-dependent-surveillance-broadcast-ads-b WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) 2017 Global Market Outlook,Research,Trends and Forecast to 2022.This report, with focus on top players in the global and Japan, studies the Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) market's development status and future trend in the global and Japan. It splits Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) market by type and by applications to fully and deeply research and reveal market profile and prospect.The major players includeHoneywell International, Inc. (U.S.)L3 Technologies, Inc. (U.S.)Esterline Technologies Corporation (U.S.)Garmin Ltd. (Switzerland)Rockwell Collins, Inc. (U.S.)Indra Sistemas, S.A. (Spain)Harris Corporation (U.S.)Thales Group (France)Avidyne Corporation (U.S.)Trig Avionics Ltd. (U.K.)Boeing Company (U.S.)Airbus Group (France)Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (U.S.)Bombardier Inc. (Canada)Embraer SA (Brazil)Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGeographically, this report splits the Global market into the following regions:Asia PacificJapanTokyoYokohamaOsakaNagoyaOthersChinaKoreaIndiaOthersEuropeFranceGermanyUnited KingdomItalyRussiaOthersNorth AmericaUnited States.On the basis of product, the Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) market is primarily split intoBy FitLine FitRetrofitBy ComponentTransponderReceiverAntennaADS-B Ground ReceiversOthersBy PlatformFixed WingRotary WingKey ApplicationsTerminal Maneuvering Area SurveillanceAirborne SurveillanceReport Details @Table Of Contents Major Key Points2017-2022 Global and Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Market Analysis Report1 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B)1.2 Global and Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Market by Applications/End Users1.2.1 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.1 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.2 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.2 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales by Application (2012-2017)1.2.3.1 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.2 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.4 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.5 Terminal Maneuvering Area Surveillance1.2.6 Airborne Surveillance1.3 Global and Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) (2012-2017)1.3.1 Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) (2012-2017)1.3.1.1 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.1.2 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.3.2 Global Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) (2012-2017)1.3.2.1 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.2.2 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.4 Global and Japan Classification of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) by Fit1.4.1 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.2 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.3 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.4 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.5 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Price (USD/Unit) by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.6 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Price (USD/Unit) by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.7 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales Growth Rate (%) by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.8 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales Growth Rate (%) by Fit (2012-2017)1.4.9 Line Fit1.4.10 Retrofit1.5 Global and Japan Classification of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) by Component1.5.1 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017)1.5.2 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017)1.5.3 Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017)1.5.4 Global Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Component (2012-2017).4 Global and Japan Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Players/Manufacturers Profiles and Sales Data4.1 Honeywell International, Inc. (U.S.)4.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.1.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.1.2.1 Product A4.1.2.2 Product B4.1.3 Honeywell International, Inc. (U.S.) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.2 L3 Technologies, Inc. (U.S.)4.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.2.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.2.2.1 Product A4.2.2.2 Product B4.2.3 L3 Technologies, Inc. (U.S.) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.3 Esterline Technologies Corporation (U.S.)4.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.3.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.3.2.1 Product A4.3.2.2 Product B4.3.3 Esterline Technologies Corporation (U.S.) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.4 Garmin Ltd. (Switzerland)4.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.4.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.4.2.1 Product A4.4.2.2 Product B4.4.3 Garmin Ltd. (Switzerland) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.5 Rockwell Collins, Inc. (U.S.)4.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.5.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.5.2.1 Product A4.5.2.2 Product B4.5.3 Rockwell Collins, Inc. (U.S.) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.6 Indra Sistemas, S.A. (Spain)4.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.6.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.6.2.1 Product A4.6.2.2 Product B4.6.3 Indra Sistemas, S.A. (Spain) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.7 Harris Corporation (U.S.)4.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.7.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.7.2.1 Product A4.7.2.2 Product B4.7.3 Harris Corporation (U.S.) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.8 Thales Group (France)4.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.8.2 Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Product Category, Application and Specification4.8.2.1 Product A4.8.2.2 Product B4.8.3 Thales Group (France) Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.8.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Market Research Report 2017 Global Analysis and Forecast to 2022 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Market https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2390750-2017-2022-global-and-japan-point-of-use-water-treatment-systems https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2390750-2017-2022-global-and-japan-point-of-use-water-treatment-systems WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Market Research Report 2017 Global Analysis and Forecast to 2022.This report, with focus on top players in the global and Japan, studies the Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems market's development status and future trend in the global and Japan. It splits Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems market by type and by applications to fully and deeply research and reveal market profile and prospect.The major players include3M Company (U.S.)Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)Koninklijke Philips NV (The Netherlands)Pentair plc (U.K.)Panasonic Corporation (Japan)Unilever PLC (U.K.)LG Electronics Inc. (South Korea)DowDupont (U.S.)Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGeographically, this report splits the Global market into the following regions:Asia PacificJapanTokyoYokohamaOsakaNagoyaOthersChinaKoreaIndiaOthersEuropeFranceGermanyUnited KingdomItalyRussiaOthersNorth AmericaUnited States.On the basis of product, the Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems market is primarily split intoBy TechnologyReverse Osmosis SystemsDistillation SystemsDisinfection MethodsFiltration MethodsOthersBy SystemTabletop PitcherFaucet-Mounted FiltersCounter-top UnitsUnder-the-sink FiltersOthersKey ApplicationsResidentialNon-ResidentialCommercialIndustrialHealthcareEducational InstitutesOthersReport Details @Table Of Contents Major Key Points2017-2022 Global and Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Market Analysis Report1 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems1.2 Global and Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Market by Applications/End Users1.2.1 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.1 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.2 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.2 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales by Application (2012-2017)1.2.3.1 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.2 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.4 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.5 Residential1.2.6 Non-Residential1.2.7 Commercial1.2.8 Industrial1.2.9 Healthcare1.2.10 Educational Institutes1.2.11 Others1.3 Global and Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems (2012-2017)1.3.1 Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems (2012-2017)1.3.1.1 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.1.2 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.3.2 Global Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems (2012-2017)1.3.2.1 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.2.2 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.4 Global and Japan Classification of Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems by Technology1.4.1 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.2 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.3 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.4 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.5 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Price (USD/Unit) by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.6 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Price (USD/Unit) by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.7 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales Growth Rate (%) by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.8 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales Growth Rate (%) by Technology (2012-2017)1.4.9 Reverse Osmosis Systems1.4.10 Distillation Systems1.4.11 Disinfection Methods1.4.12 Filtration Methods1.4.13 Others1.5 Global and Japan Classification of Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems by System1.5.1 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share by System (2012-2017)1.5.2 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units) and Market Share by System (2012-2017)1.5.3 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by System (2012-2017)1.5.4 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by System (2012-2017)1.5.5 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Price (USD/Unit) by System (2012-2017)1.5.6 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Price (USD/Unit) by System (2012-2017)1.5.7 Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales Growth Rate (%) by System (2012-2017)1.5.8 Global Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales Growth Rate (%) by System (2012-2017)1.5.9 Tabletop Pitcher1.5.10 Faucet-Mounted Filters1.5.11 Counter-top Units1.5.12 Under-the-sink Filters1.5.13 Others.4 Global and Japan Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Players/Manufacturers Profiles and Sales Data4.1 3M Company (U.S.)4.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.1.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.1.2.1 Product A4.1.2.2 Product B4.1.3 3M Company (U.S.) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.2 Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)4.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.2.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.2.2.1 Product A4.2.2.2 Product B4.2.3 Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.3 Koninklijke Philips NV (The Netherlands)4.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.3.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.3.2.1 Product A4.3.2.2 Product B4.3.3 Koninklijke Philips NV (The Netherlands) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.4 Pentair plc (U.K.)4.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.4.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.4.2.1 Product A4.4.2.2 Product B4.4.3 Pentair plc (U.K.) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.5 Panasonic Corporation (Japan)4.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.5.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.5.2.1 Product A4.5.2.2 Product B4.5.3 Panasonic Corporation (Japan) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.6 Unilever PLC (U.K.)4.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.6.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.6.2.1 Product A4.6.2.2 Product B4.6.3 Unilever PLC (U.K.) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.7 LG Electronics Inc. (South Korea)4.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.7.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.7.2.1 Product A4.7.2.2 Product B4.7.3 LG Electronics Inc. (South Korea) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.8 DowDupont (U.S.)4.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.8.2 Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Product Category, Application and Specification4.8.2.1 Product A4.8.2.2 Product B4.8.3 DowDupont (U.S.) Point-of-Use Water Treatment Systems Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.8.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Millimeter Wave Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis By key Players BridgeWave Communications, E-Band Communications, Keysight Technologies, NEC Corp., SAGE Millimeter Millimeter Wave Technology Market 2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2390749-2017-2022-global-and-japan-millimeter-wave-technology-market-analysis-report https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2390749-2017-2022-global-and-japan-millimeter-wave-technology-market-analysis-report WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Millimeter Wave Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis By key Players BridgeWave Communications, E-Band Communications, Keysight Technologies, NEC Corp., SAGE Millimeter.This report, with focus on top players in the global and Japan, studies the Millimeter Wave Technology market's development status and future trend in the global and Japan. It splits Millimeter Wave Technology market by type and by applications to fully and deeply research and reveal market profile and prospect.The major players includeBridgeWave Communications, Inc. (US)E-Band Communications, LLC (US)Keysight Technologies, Inc. (US)NEC Corp. (Japan)SAGE Millimeter, Inc. (US)Siklu Communication, Ltd. (Israel)Aviat Networks, Inc. (Singapore)Farran Technology Ltd. (Ireland)Millimeter Wave Products, Inc. (US)Millitech, Inc. (US)Millivision Technologies (US)Vubiq Networks, Inc. (US)Smiths Group Plc. (UK)L3 Technologies, Inc. (US)Elva-1 (Sweden)Nuctech (China)Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGeographically, this report splits the Global market into the following regions:Asia PacificJapanTokyoYokohamaOsakaNagoyaOthersChinaKoreaIndiaOthersEuropeFranceGermanyUnited KingdomItalyRussiaOthersNorth AmericaUnited States.On the basis of product, the Millimeter Wave Technology market is primarily split intoBy ProductScanner SystemsRadar and Satellite Communication SystemsTelecommunication EquipmentOthersBy Frequency BandBand between 30 GHz and 57 GHzBand between 57 GHz and 86 GHzBand between 86 GHz and 300 GHzBy License TypeLight Licensed FrequencyUnlicensed FrequencyFully Licensed FrequencyKey ApplicationsMobile & TelecommunicationConsumer & CommercialHealthcareIndustrialAutomotive and TransportationMilitary, Defense, and AerospaceImagingReport Details @Table Of Contents Major Key Points2017-2022 Global and Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Market Analysis Report1 Millimeter Wave Technology Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Millimeter Wave Technology1.2 Global and Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Market by Applications/End Users1.2.1 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.1 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.2 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.1.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.2 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales by Application (2012-2017)1.2.3.1 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.2 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales Growth Rate (%) by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.3.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities1.2.4 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2012-2017)1.2.5 Mobile & Telecommunication1.2.6 Consumer & Commercial1.2.7 Healthcare1.2.8 Industrial1.2.9 Automotive and Transportation1.2.10 Military, Defense, and Aerospace1.2.11 Imaging1.3 Global and Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Millimeter Wave Technology (2012-2017)1.3.1 Japan Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Millimeter Wave Technology (2012-2017)1.3.1.1 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.1.2 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.3.2 Global Market Size (Sales and Revenue) of Millimeter Wave Technology (2012-2017)1.3.2.1 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Growth Rate (%) (2012-2017)1.3.2.2 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)1.4 Global and Japan Classification of Millimeter Wave Technology by Product1.4.1 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Product (2012-2017)1.4.2 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Product (2012-2017)1.4.3 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Product (2012-2017)1.4.4 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Product (2012-2017)1.4.5 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Price (USD/Unit) by Product (2012-2017)1.4.6 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Price (USD/Unit) by Product (2012-2017)1.4.7 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales Growth Rate (%) by Product (2012-2017)1.4.8 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales Growth Rate (%) by Product (2012-2017)1.4.9 Scanner Systems1.4.10 Radar and Satellite Communication Systems1.4.11 Telecommunication Equipment1.4.12 Others1.5 Global and Japan Classification of Millimeter Wave Technology by Frequency Band1.5.1 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.2 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units) and Market Share by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.3 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.4 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Revenue (Million USD) and Market Share by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.5 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Price (USD/Unit) by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.6 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Price (USD/Unit) by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.7 Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Sales Growth Rate (%) by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.8 Global Millimeter Wave Technology Sales Growth Rate (%) by Frequency Band (2012-2017)1.5.9 Band between 30 GHz and 57 GHz1.5.10 Band between 57 GHz and 86 GHz1.5.11 Band between 86 GHz and 300 GHz.4 Global and Japan Millimeter Wave Technology Players/Manufacturers Profiles and Sales Data4.1 BridgeWave Communications, Inc. (US)4.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.1.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.1.2.1 Product A4.1.2.2 Product B4.1.3 BridgeWave Communications, Inc. (US) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.2 E-Band Communications, LLC (US)4.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.2.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.2.2.1 Product A4.2.2.2 Product B4.2.3 E-Band Communications, LLC (US) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.3 Keysight Technologies, Inc. (US)4.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.3.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.3.2.1 Product A4.3.2.2 Product B4.3.3 Keysight Technologies, Inc. (US) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.4 NEC Corp. (Japan)4.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.4.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.4.2.1 Product A4.4.2.2 Product B4.4.3 NEC Corp. (Japan) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.5 SAGE Millimeter, Inc. (US)4.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.5.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.5.2.1 Product A4.5.2.2 Product B4.5.3 SAGE Millimeter, Inc. (US) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.6 Siklu Communication, Ltd. (Israel)4.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.6.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.6.2.1 Product A4.6.2.2 Product B4.6.3 Siklu Communication, Ltd. (Israel) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.7 Aviat Networks, Inc. (Singapore)4.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.7.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.7.2.1 Product A4.7.2.2 Product B4.7.3 Aviat Networks, Inc. (Singapore) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview4.8 Farran Technology Ltd. (Ireland)4.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors4.8.2 Millimeter Wave Technology Product Category, Application and Specification4.8.2.1 Product A4.8.2.2 Product B4.8.3 Farran Technology Ltd. (Ireland) Millimeter Wave Technology Sales (K Units), Revenue (Million USD), Price (USD/Unit) and Gross Margin (%)(2012-2017)4.8.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Cloudy early followed by a mixture of light rain and snow this afternoon. Temps nearly steady in the mid to upper 30s. Winds E at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precip 60%.. Tonight Cloudy with snow showers mainly during the evening. Low 29F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 60%. Global Construction Stone Market by Opportunity, Segmentation Forecast Market Insights 2017-2023 Construction stone Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/3894 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/construction-stone-market-3894 Global Construction Stone Market ReportThe construction stone market is majorly driven by the increase in the investments in the construction of commercial, residential and public infrastructure. The market is also driven by the growth in new construction and renovation activities that are being led by the aging of old building structures. The abundance of the natural rocks with high reinforcement properties, is also leading to the increased use of construction stone during the construction activities in residential, commercial and public sector.Request for Sample Report @Market Synopsis:Construction stones have been considered as one of the popular building material since olden days due to their availability in abundance from natural rocks. Construction stone possesses properties such as high strength and durability, which enables them to be an important constituent of the construction sector.Global Construction Stone Market Information by Type (Construction Aggregates and Natural Stones), By Application (Public Infrastructure, Commercial Infrastructure and Residential Infrastructure) and By Region Forecast To 2023The major factor driving the global construction stone market is the rise in demand for residential, commercial and public infrastructure all over the world. The preference of natural stones and construction aggregates over other materials, is also driving the growth of the global construction stone market. However, the growth of this market is expected to be restrained by huge fluctuations in the prices of the raw materials depending upon their availability and increase in number of other modern substitute material, which possess high reinforcement properties.The Global Construction Stone Market is expected to grow with 9% CAGR during the forecast period.Study Objectives of Global Construction Stone Market:To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next five years of the various segments and sub-segments of the global distribution feeder protection systemTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo analyze the global distribution feeder protection system market based on various tools such as Supply Chain Analysis, and Porters Five Forces 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 material type, product, application and regionTo 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 distribution feeder protection system marketRegional Analysis of Global Construction Stone Market:The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest growing region for the global construction stone market, owing to escalating disposable incomes and the flourishing construction industry. Also urbanization and the industrialization in the developing nations, are driving the growth of the Asia-Pacific region. The North America and Europe region has also been a major contributor in construction stone markets growth, which is further driving the growth of the market in respective nations.Key Players:The key players of global construction stone market are AbleGroup (Malaysia), Benchmark Building Supplies Ltd (U.K), Caesarstone Ltd (Israel), Cosentino Group S.A. (Spain), OJSC LSR Group (Russia), Dakota Granite Co. (U.S), Daltile (U.S), Duracite (U.S.), Marazzi Group S.r.l (Italy), Precision Countertops (U.S),Vangura Surfaces Products (U.S) and others.1 Executive Summary2 Research Methodology2.1 Scope Of The Study2.1.1 Definition2.1.2 Research Objective2.1.3 Assumptions2.1.4 Limitations2.2 Research Process2.2.1 Primary Research2.2.2 Secondary Research2.3 Market Size Estimation2.4 Forecast Model3 Market Dynamics3.1 Market Drivers3.2 Market Inhibitors3.3 Supply/Value Chain Analysis3.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis4 Global Construction Stone Market, By Type4.1 Introduction4.2 Construction Aggregates4.3 Natural Stones5 Global Construction Stone Market, By Application5.1 Introduction5.2 Public Infrastructure5.3 Commercial Infrastructure5.4 Residential InfrastructureProduct Analysis:Product matrix which gives a detailed comparison of the market for different recycled product typesAdditional Information:Regulatory LandscapePricing AnalysisMacroeconomic IndicatorsGeographic Analysis:Geographical analysis across 15 countriesCompany Information:Profiling of 11 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 Global Construction Stone 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.Access Complete Report @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 Beverage Packaging 2017 Global Market Expected to Grow at CAGR of 4% percent and Forecast to 2022 Beverage Packaging Market 2017 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1974 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/beverage-packaging-market-1974 Beverage Packaging Market 2017Summary:Global Beverage Packaging Market Information by Packaging Type (Flexible, Rigid & Semi-Rigid), by Materials (Metal, Plastic, Paper and Glass), by Products (Bottles, Cans, Pouch and Others), and by Region - Forecast to 2022Key PlayersThe key players of global beverage packaging Market report include-Saint-Gobain S.A.Tetra Laval International S.A.Owens-Illinois Inc.Crown Holdings Inc.Rexam PLCBall CorporationMondi PLCAmcor LimitedReynolds Group Holdings LimitedAlcoa Inc.Market ScenarioThe beverage industry has seen massive investments for expansion and technological upgradation. The packaging of beverages both carbonated and non-carbonated, has gained lot of popularity in the packaging industry. The beverage packaging is primarily driven by the increase in the consumption of beverages. Additionally, advancement in packaging technology also fuel the growth of this market. However, stringent government regulations may hamper the growth of beverage packaging market. Beverage packaging market is expected to grow at CAGR of approximately 4% by 2022.Study Objectives of Global Beverage Packaging MarketTo provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 6 years of various segments and sub-segments of the Global beverage packaging MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo Analyze the Global beverage packaging Market based on various factors- price analysis, supply chain analysis, porters five force analysis etc.To provide historical and forecast revenue of the market segments and sub-segments with respect to four main geographies and their countries- North America, Europe, APAC, 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 Packaging Type, by Material, by Product, and by Region.To provide strategic profiling of the key players in the market, comprehensively analyzing their core competencies, and drawing a competitive landscape for the marketTo track and analyze competitive developments such as joint ventures, strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, new product developments, and research and developments in the beverage packaging Market.Request For Sample Report @Regional Analysis of Global Beverage packaging MarketNorth America region dominates the beverage packaging market. Adoption of advanced packaging technology & consumer awareness as well as rising beer consumption are the factors driving the growth of this market in this region. This region is expected to grow at a good pace during the forecasted period.Target AudiencePackaging OrganizationsManufacturerResearch Institute / Education InstitutePotential InvestorsProduct 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 Global Beverage Packaging Market of Market Research Future comprises of extensive primary research along with the detailed analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts, key opinion leaders to gain the deeper insight of the market and industry performance. The report gives the clear picture of current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value and volume, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regionsComplete Report Details @Table of Contents1 Executive Summary2 Scope Of The Report2.1 Market Definition2.2 Scope Of The Study2.2.1 Research Objectives2.2.2 Assumptions & Limitations2.3 Markets Structure.Company Profiles11.1 Saint-Gobain S.A.11.1.1 Overview11.1.2 Financials11.1.3 Product Portfolio11.1.4 Business Strategies11.1.5 Recent Development11.2 Tetra Laval International S.A.11.2.1 Overview11.2.2 Financials11.2.3 Product Portfolio11.2.4 Business Strategies11.2.5 Recent Development11.3 Owens-Illinois Inc11.3.1 Overview11.3.2 Financials11.3.3 Product Portfolio11.3.4 Business Strategies11.3.5 Recent Development11.4 Mondi PLC.11.4.1 Overview11.4.2 Financials11.4.3 Product Portfolio11.4.4 Business Strategies11.4.5 Recent Development11.5 Amcor Ltd11.5.1 Overview11.5.2 Financials11.5.3 Product Portfolio11.5.4 Business Strategies11.5.5 Recent Development11.6 Crown Holdings Inc.11.6.1 Overview11.6.2 Financials11.6.3 Product Portfolio11.6.4 Business Strategies11.6.5 Recent Development11.7 Rexam PLC11.7.1 Overview11.7.2 Financials11.7.3 Product Portfolio11.7.4 Business Strategies11.7.5 Recent Development11.8 Ball Corporation11.8.1 Overview11.8.2 Financials11.8.3 Product Portfolio11.8.4 Business Strategies11.8.5 Recent Development11.9 Reynolds Group Holdings Limited11.9.1 Overview11.9.2 Financials11.9.3 Product Portfolio11.9.4 Business Strategies11.9.5 Recent Development11.10 Alcoa Inc11.10.1 Overview11.10.2 Financials11.10.3 Product Portfolio11.10.4 Business Strategies11.10.5 Recent DevelopmentContinued.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.MRFR team have the prime objective to provide optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies depending on products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments enables our clients to know more consequently do more, which gives them answer for their each and every important question. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industryCONTACT US:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com Sputter Targets Market by Manufacturers,Types,Regions and Applications Research Report Forecast to 2022 Sputter Targets 2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2394990-global-sputter-targets-market-research-report-2017 https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2394990-global-sputter-targets-market-research-report-2017 WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Sputter Targets Market by Manufacturers,Types,Regions and Applications Research Report Forecast to 2022.Global Sputter Targets market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingJX Nippon Mining & Metals CorporationTOSOHSumitomo ChemicalMitsui Mining & SmeltingULVACPraxairGrikinPlanseeNingbo JiangfengHoneywellMaterion (Heraeus)AcetronChangzhou Sujing Electronic MaterialLuoyang Sifon Electronic MaterialsGet a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGeographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Sputter Targets in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringUnited StatesEUChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoMetal TargetAlloy TargetCeramic Compound TargetOn 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 Sputter Targets for each application, includingSemiconductorSolar EnergyFlat Panel DisplayOtherReport Details @Table Of Contents Major Key PointsGlobal Sputter Targets Market Research Report 20171 Sputter Targets Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Sputter Targets1.2 Sputter Targets Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Sputter Targets Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Sputter Targets Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Metal Target1.2.4 Alloy Target1.2.5 Ceramic Compound Target1.3 Global Sputter Targets Segment by Application1.3.1 Sputter Targets Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Semiconductor1.3.3 Solar Energy1.3.4 Flat Panel Display1.3.5 Other1.4 Global Sputter Targets Market by Region (2012-2022)1.4.1 Global Sputter Targets Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 United States Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 EU Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 South Korea Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 Taiwan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Sputter Targets (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Sputter Targets Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Sputter Targets Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)..7 Global Sputter Targets Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 JX Nippon Mining & Metals Corporation7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 JX Nippon Mining & Metals Corporation Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 TOSOH7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 TOSOH Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Sumitomo Chemical7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 Sumitomo Chemical Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Mitsui Mining & Smelting7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.4.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Mitsui Mining & Smelting Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.5 ULVAC7.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.5.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.5.2.1 Product A7.5.2.2 Product B7.5.3 ULVAC Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.6 Praxair7.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.6.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.6.2.1 Product A7.6.2.2 Product B7.6.3 Praxair Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.7 Grikin7.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.7.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.7.2.1 Product A7.7.2.2 Product B7.7.3 Grikin Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.8 Plansee7.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.8.2 Sputter Targets Product Category, Application and Specification7.8.2.1 Product A7.8.2.2 Product B7.8.3 Plansee Sputter Targets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.8.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT 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. Healthcare Big Data Analytics Market is growing globally with the rapid pace and Forecast to 2023 Healthcare Big Data Analytics Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/726 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/726 Market Research Future.com add new report of Healthcare Big Data AnalyticsMarket Research Report - Global Forecast To 2023 it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentHealthcare is a highly litigious and regulated industry. Over time, healthcare data has been created and accumulated continuously through patient records, radiology images, clinical trials and genomic sequences. With new technological advancements like m Health and Internet of Things (IOT), patients are now able to track their health data and share it with their respective physicians for any further remedies. The more data collected and analysed, the better medical insights gained.The Global Healthcare Big Data Analytics market of is expected to reach US$ 9.5 billion in 2023 from US$ 5.5 billion in 2016 with a CAGR of approximately 11.5%.With healthcare industry generating zeta bytes of data, big data analytic solutions aims to improve quality care of patients and the overall healthcare ecosystem. The market growth is gaining momentum with government initiatives for big data integration in the healthcare sector during recent years.The data analytics is an enormous amount of structured as well as unstructured data which help organizations to improve their decision making processes. It refer to the technology services any organization is utilizing to handle the data sets. Unstructured data refers to the data which does not have a standardized form. Around 80% of the data in the business organizations is unstructured and around 60% of the patient care information is in the unstructured format.Request a Sample Report @Some of the key players in this market are: IBM, Cerner Corporation, Cognizant, Dell, Epic System Corporation, GE Healthcare, McKesson, Optum, Philips, Siemens.Study Objectives of Healthcare Big Data Analytics Market:To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next six years of the various segments and sub-segments of the Healthcare Big Data Analytics marketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo analyze the Healthcare Big Data Analytics 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 and Africa.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 segments by type, by end users and its sub-segmentsTo provide overview of key players and their strategic profiling 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 Healthcare Big Data Analytics market.Segments:Global Healthcare Big Data Analytics Market is segmented by components which include Hardware and Software, by deployment type including Software On-premise and software on demand, by application including Financial analytics, Clinical Analytics and Operational Analytics and Software type including Electronic Health Record Software, Practice Management Software, Revenue Cycle Management Software, Workforce Management Software, and others by end user which includes Hospitals, Clinics, Diagnostic Centers and others and by regions consisting of North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Middle East and Africa.Regional Analysis of Healthcare Big Data Analytics Market:Globally, Healthcare Big Data Analytics Market consists of four regions North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Middle East and Africa. North America is the largest market for Healthcare Big Data Analytics. Major factors for the growth in big data analytics in healthcare industry are emanation of big data in healthcare, establishment of healthcare policies by federal government, increased focus on big data management and analysis for better healthcare facilities and swift technological advancement like m health and precision medicines.North America is the largest market for Healthcare Big Data Analytics which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% and is expected to reach at US$ 4.25 billion. Healthcare data analytics is gaining importance as it is important to analyze healthcare data and maintain in the system for a long time. Retaining patient data is a major task for healthcare providers. Europe is the second largest market. In Asia-Pacific, increasing patient pool emphasizes the use of healthcare data analytics as large amount of healthcare data is generated. Middle East and Africa show steady growth in this market.Ask Question to Expert atTable Of Content1 Report Prologue2 Market Introduction2.1 Introduction2.2 Scope of Study2.3 Research Objective2.4 Assumptions & Limitations2.4.1 Assumptions2.4.2 Limitations11 Company Profile11.1 Cognizant11.1.1 Overview11.1.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.1.3 Financial Updates11.1.4 Key Developments11.2 Cerner Corporation11.2.1 Overview11.2.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.2.3 Financial Updates11.2.4 Key Developments11.3 International Business Machine (IBM) Corporation11.3.1 Overview11.3.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.3.3 Financial Updates11.3.4 Key Developments11.4 Dell11.4.1 Overview11.4.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.4.3 Financial Updates11.4.4 Key Developments11.5 Epic System Corporation11.5.1 Overview11.5.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.5.3 Financial Updates11.5.4 Key Developments11.6 Bloomberg L.P.11.6.1 Overview11.6.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.6.3 Financial Updates11.6.4 Key Developments11.7 GE Healthcare11.7.1 Overview11.7.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.7.3 Financial Updates11.7.4 Key Developments11.8 McKesson11.8.1 Overview11.8.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.8.3 Financial Updates11.8.4 Key Developments11.9 Optum11.9.1 Overview11.9.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.9.3 Financial Updates11.9.4 Key Developments11.10 Philips11.10.1 Overview11.10.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.10.3 Financial Updates11.10.4 Key Developments11.11 Siemens11.11.1 Overview11.11.2 Product/Business Segment Overview11.11.3 Financial Updates11.11.4 Key DevelopmentsAbout 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 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comMRFR has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.Our Research Analysts are eager to share their knowledge and assist you in refining market research parameters, choosing right market studies, and evaluating both the market scope and the research methodologies of varied segments.We bridge the gap between our clients and their clients by identifying and decoding just the target group, while generating leads with the highest accuracy.Years of research into diverse fields of work has ingrained within us, a proficiency so distinguished that our industry-specific specialists identify with your business ideas and feel the pulse of your challenges and opportunities. This enables us for providing assistance, through our consulting and strategic consulting services, in informed managerial decision making. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industries, WantStats Research and Media often conducts industrial visits for its research analysts. Relevant inputs from various established market participants, help our clients make significant contribution in respective markets are a huge motivation for all of us to endlessly furnish quality. We depend greatly on profound insights into complex realms of our study.Pune, India Cancer Immunotherapy Market 2017:Key Player- Amgen Inc, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Eli Lilly and Company, AstraZeneca Plc, GlaxoSmithKline Plc, Bayer AG, F. and More https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/639 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/639 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/asia-pacific-cancer-immunotherapy-market Market Research Future adds new report of Americas Cancer Immunotherapy Market Research Report it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentAsia Pacific Cancer Immunotherapy Market Research Report: By Type of Therapy (Monoclonal Antibodies, Cancer Vaccines, Immunomodulators and others), By Application (Lung Cancer, Blood Cancer, Melanoma, Breast Cancer and others), and By End User (Hospitals and Clinics, Research Laboratories, Cancer Institute) - Forecasted till 2023Get a Copy of Sample Report @SegmentationAsia Pacific cancer immunotherapy market is segmentedOn the basis of type of therapy, application, and end users.On the basis of type of therapy, the market is segmented into monoclonal antibodies, cancer vaccines, immunomodulators and other.On the basis of application the market is segmented as lung cancer, blood cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, and other.On the basis of end user, the market is segmented into hospitals & clinics, research laboratories, cancer institute, and others.Market Scenario:Cancer is condition of uncontrolled cell growth. It is one of the deadliest disease in the world and the second major cause of deaths across the globe. It is an abnormal cell growth with the potential to spread to other part of the body. Over 100 types of cancer has been registered that had affected human so far. According to a survey carried out by Pfizer, in 2012, 6.7 million of cancer cases was registered in Asia Pacific region, which is expected to increase continuously. Due to deteriorating lifestyle, smoking, and alcoholism, the prevalence of cancer is increasing. Increasing cancer population is the major reason for the increasing growth of the Asia Pacific immunotherapy market. Different treatment are available in the market but the advantage of immunotherapy is high as compared to other available therapies. It is mostly effective against melanoma cancer where chemotherapy and other radiation therapy fails. Increasing government support for research & development and increasing healthcare expenditure have fuelled the market growth, over the last few years. However, high side effect of the treatments and cost of the therapy may slow the market growth during the forecasted period.Asia Pacific immunotherapy market is expecting a sound growth at a CAGR of 15.5% during the forecasted period 2017-2023.Get more information of Reports @Key PlayersThe key players for the market:Amgen Inc. (US)Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (US)Eli Lilly and Company (US)AstraZeneca Plc. (UK)GlaxoSmithKline Plc. (UK)Bayer AG (Germany)Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. (Switzerland)Pfizer, Inc. (US)Merck & Co., Inc. (US)Novartis AG (Switzerland)Spectrum Pharmaceuticals Inc. (US)Janssen Biotech, Inc. (US)Sanofi (France), AbbVie Inc. (US)Takeda Pharmaceuticals (Japan)Oncomed Pharmaceuticals (US)Immunomedics (US)Browse Full Report @Regional AnalysisAsia Pacific cancer immunotherapy market is segmented into Japan, China, India, Australia, Republic of Korea, and Rest of Asia Pacific. China and India are the major contributor to the Asia Pacific cancer immunotherapy market owing to the huge presence patient base and strong government support for research & development. Moreover, availability of highly skilled healthcare professionals, rising acceptance of these therapies, and increasing demand for the treatment have provided push for the growth of the market in these countries. Australia and Rest of Asia Pacific contribute the least share to the market.At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for North America, 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 quriesContact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Harbor Springs frees up funding with public safety millage The Harbor Springs public safety millage will free up some of the funds impacted by the Headlee Amendment, but city officials say it isn't a long-term fix. fun focused Remy Absalon and Damien Oton take on the enduro party By Azores Airlines Damien Oton and Remy Absalon charging with style on the stages Check Trailforks map area of the event The "" enduro party is back in 2018. Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and hidden from the rest of the world, the village of Faial da Terra on the Island of Sao Miguel will again host the Enduro fest, between March 1 and March 4, 2018. Eight special stages divided by two days of racing where riders can practice the two days before. An estimated of 60km length with over 3,000m of descending. An urban prologue to present the riders to the community of Povoacao municipality.For 2018 we're introducing the "Dynamic Duo" category. Teams of two riders can compete against other duos.The event award ceremony will be followed with Azorean craft beer and wood barbecue dinner.The Azores are closer and easier to travel to than you may think. Direct flights from countries in Europe and many others with a short stop in Lisbon or Oporto cities. Also, direct flights are available from United States of America and Canada. Choose Ponta Delgada Aiport (PDL) as your final destination and prepare to be amazed with the island of Sao Miguel.Take a look at what the municipality of Povoacao can offer you besides amazing and challenging trails. Happy Music Monday! Got a case of the I-wish-there-were-a-day-between-Sunday-and-Monday? Me too. There's nothing like a solid playlist to get you to work on time and in great spirits. This week, country took over and we're featuring some of favorite country artists for Music Monday including Kelsea Ballerini, Sam Hunt, Luke Bryan, and more. Check out the line up below: Spotify users can listen to the full playlist here. 1. Silence Speaks | Brooke Eden Brooke Eden says enough is enough with the normal expectations of a break up. In "Silence Speaks" she decides that silence is enough to send a message to an ex-lover. Anyone who loves country or pop alike would love Brooke and her powerful lyrics and sassy delivery. Follow her on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 2. Electric | Jessica Andrea "Electric" is the title song of Jessica Andrea's new EP. The up and coming pop artist brings us a banger that you'll definitely want to request at the bar. A feel good song, she captures the feeling of walking on a cloud when you're at that amazing "there's no one else in the world" part of your relationship. Follow her on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 3. Don't Need Permission | Meg Mac "Don't Need Permission" is such a banger. The groove of the song brings you to an involuntary bop and the powerful lyrics will have you thinking "yas girl, sing it." Meg Mac gives me some Amy Winehouse vibes with her rich voice and fiery delivery. Follow her on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 4. OMG | Camila Cabello Ok maybe I'm a little bias here as a fellow Miamian but doesn't Camila Cabello just keeps dropping the most danceable songs? This one in particular is perfect for a day when you're feeling yourself. Use it as the soundtrack to taking a #nofilter selfie because yes, "You look good today." Follow her on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 5. Deal Breakers | Megan Swindler feat. Matthew John Megan Swindler gives into a bad romance in "Deal Breakers". Who can't relate to knowing that someone doesn't check all of your boxes, but going for it anyways. The slow groove of the track feels dangerous like the cautionary lyrics of the verse. That makes it all the more exciting when Megan throws caution to the wind in the chorus and celebrates this potentially bad decision. Follow her on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 6. Material Boy | Alli Simpson Alli Simpson tells it like it is in her powerful new single "Material Boy." Scorning her suitor for his inability to look beyond superficial beauty and his tendency to treat women like possessions, Alli's vocal delivery is smooth and confident. Follow Alli Simpson on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 7. Hungry | Echosmith This song from Echosmith's new EP Inside a Dream is entrancing. The vulnerable lyrics take the threat of losing a lover to a visceral level pleading, "Don't let me go hungry." Follow Echosmith on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 8. Touch It | Ariana Grande Throwing it back to Ariana's last album Dangerous Woman because I'm very ready for her to release new music. I had a different favorite song every week when Dangerous Woman first came out and I'm still in love with the album. "Touch It" is that intoxicating blackhole feeling of wondering where a relationship will go. The hook is the musical embodiment of desire. Follow Ariana Grande on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 9. Cool for The Summer | Demi Lovato Demi Lovato is "Cool for the Summer" but I say this song is cool for the fall too. Off of Demi's album Confident this song will give you some major confidence. Follow Demi Lovato on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. I saw Halsey last Friday at The Barclays Center in Brooklyn and this song took on a whole new meaning for me. Always enjoyable seeing the passion exude from Halsey while she performed it, I began to truly understand it. An active member of the LGBTQ+ community, Halsey professes that "Women don't play no games," in this confrontational song directed toward players. Follow Halsey on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 11. IDGAF | Dua Lipa Dua Lipa knows how to write a break up song. Unlike the powerful, but more vulnerable single "New Rules," "IDGAF" is straight-up, confrontational, and the hook is crystal clear: she doesn't give a ****. This is the banger you need to say goodbye for good to that toxic lover. Follow Canaan Smith on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. I listened to the new P!nk album this weekend and the jury's out: I'm still obsessed. There are so many songs on the album that I could rave about, like my personal favorite "Beautiful Trauma," but I thought "Barbies" was the chill song this playlist needed. Nostalgic and reflective, P!nk thinks about the simple days of playing with barbies and wishes for that same simplicity to return to her life. This is the song to blast when you can't deal with adulting anymore. Follow P!nk on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. 13. Boys | Charli XCX Charli XCX opened for Halsey this weekend so she was fresh on my mind. Finding her initial success in her single "Boom Clap," Charli XCX recently followed that success up with "Boys" a sexy song about being a little boy crazy. Can you say relatable? Follow Charli XCX on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook. Anie Delgado is a contributor to Popdust and is an actress and musician based in NYC. Follow her on Instagram, Twitter @anie_delgado and on Facebook. Check out her music on Spotify. POP DUST | Read More... POPDUST PRESENTS | Boy Radio reminds us what love sounds like LIVE | GGOOLLDD played a luminous first show at The Mercury Lounge Rising star Caleb Hawley released his LP and it's a must-listen "It took a long voyage, it was difficult this time." Rimas Meleshyus SAIPAN Thought to be lost at sea after he was last reported to have been off the coast of Fiji on July 31, renowned sailor Rimas Meleshyus has been found aboard his small yacht. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. The yacht was towed into Saipan's port by the Department of Public Safety's Boating Safety Section yesterday, and the sailor told friends via Facebook that he had reached Saipan safely. He sent a distress call that prompted Boating Safety to respond at 2 a.m. yesterday. Public safety spokesman Lt. Jason Tarkong said there was a report from DPS Boating Safety of a small sailing boat with a broken mast. KSPN2 news anchor Sherri Riggs posted a live video on social media showing Meleshyus in good health, to let his friends and followers from the mainland know that he had been found. Meleshyus left Oak Harbor, Washington, in the summer of 2013 to start his quest of sailing around the world solo. According to The Daily Astorian's website, Meleshyus left Hilo, Hawaii, in late May and was last heard from on July 31 near Fiji, mentioning that his tiller was damaged. Meleshyus, in a message to his friend using Sherri Riggs' Facebook account, said he had arrived safely on Saipan. "It took a long voyage, it was difficult this time," said Melyshus. He said a storm damaged his sails before reaching the islands of Fiji. Big plans ahead He said that after getting his passport and stocking up, and repairing his boat, he plans to go to Japan next, then to Alaska, and after that to Australia and the Indian Ocean. Meleshyus said if he is still in good health, he wants to visit every port in the world. The U.S. Coast Guard was the first to meet him at sea and had offered to fly him to safety, but Meleshyus reportedly refused to leave his boat. A 35-year-old Taiwanese woman who entered Guam as a tourist, but ended up working as a buy-me-drinkie hostess in a Tumon bar, was sentenced to two years probation in federal court this morning. Shih Ya Hung entered a plea of guilty to making a false statement on immigration forms. She was allowed entry under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver program. According to court documents she arrived on island from Taiwan in June and December of 2013, and again in March of 2014, each time checking the tourist box on her I-94 arrival form. However, during the time she was on Guam, Huang worked illegally at the Star Melody bar in Tumon (formally Lindas Lounge). There, according to her plea agreement, Huang served as a club hostess soliciting drink sales from customers for financial profit for her and the lounge. She told the court that she adopted the name Angie because of her admiration for the actress Angelina Jolie. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Im sorry, she told the court, I know it violates the law, I am willing to cooperate. Huangs attorney, Curtis Van de Veld, said portions of the case remain under seal because they contain information about Huangs cooperation, and there are still several outstanding warrants that have not been served. District Court Chief Judge Francis Tydingco-Gatewood cited Huangs cooperation and agreed to the probation officers recommendation of probation and no fine. Huang is now married to a U.S. citizen and has a 10-month-old child. Huang must still pay a $100 special assessment fee and perform 50 hours of community service. Judge Tydingco-Gatewood also ordered her to report to U.S. immigration to determine if she should be deported. Huangs co-defendant, Chih Ling Liu, was not present in the court for her scheduled sentencing today. Attorney Van de Veld told the court that she was off island, studying in Australia and could not make it back to Guam in time for the sentencing. Although Judge Tydingco-Gatewood had earlier denied a motion to continue her sentencing, she agreed today to extend the sentencing date to Nov. 16. If she fails to appear, said Judge Tydingco-Gatewood, Ill issue a warrant for her arrest. Let me tell you about a man and a place far away from the cornfields of the Midwest: Jeff Pleadwell and Jeffs Pirates Cove at 111 Route 4, Ip Read moreJeffs Pirates Cove: A place of history Transparency Market Research PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:27:18 Press Information Transparency Market Research Contact US Abhishek Budholiya State Tower, 90 State Street, Suite 700, Albany NY - 12207 United States Tel: +1-518-618-1030 Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/ Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com email Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 556 Words Contact USAbhishek BudholiyaState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comAbhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a naturally occurring vitamin-like substance present in plants, animals, and humans. It plays an important role in the production of cellular energy and in the basic functioning of cells. In the human body, it is found in the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas. Coenzyme Q10 is industrially manufactured largely by yeast fermentation and on a smaller scale by bacterial fermentation. It is largely used in the treatment of heart conditions such as congestive heart failure and other diseases such as Huntingtons disease, breast cancer, and gum diseases among others. It is commonly used in tablets, supplements, and capsules.Cosmetics are a growing market in countries like China and India coupled with regions in Europe and North America. With the approval of CoQ10 in cosmetics it is finding an increasing array of applications in cosmetic sub-segments such as anti-ageing creams and lotions, in these regions. This is one of the main drivers for the CoQ10 market. Proven cardiac benefits due to CoQ10 and its increasing health benefits in other areas such as obesity and other serious illnesses are also factors contributing to the increasing demandA sample of this report is available upon request @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=1444 The usage of CoQ10 as a treatment remains controversial in many areas. Any new application of CoQ10 requires many levels of testing and scientific research as establishing scientific credibility of such products is a big hurdle. This can be a very lengthy and expensive process. Also, in regions like Europe and North America, stringent health regulations and legislations affect product development and eventual sales.The increasing demand of CoQ10 as a beverage soluble substance is increasing in the beverage and food industry. There is an increasing scope of applications in the areas of cognitive diseases, heart diseases, and anti-ageing. In addition, the recent discovery of CoQ10 for migraine and infertility treatment may increase production of CoQ10. Besides being used for its cardiac and energy benefits, CoQ10 is also gaining popularity due to its use in fields such as eye care and obesity.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=1444 Some of the key manufacturers of Coenzyme Q10 (Coq10) are Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, PharmaEssentia Corporation, DSM Nutritional Products, Gnosis S. p. A, Kyowa Hakko U.S.A. Inc., ZMC-USA LLC, Kaneka Corporation , Hwail Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., and Nisshin Seifun Group Inc. among others.This research report analyzes this market depending on its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. Geographies analyzed under this research report includeNorth AmericaAsia PacificEuropeRest of the WorldThis report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming yearsGet access to full summary @: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/coenzyme-q10-market.html 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. Transparency Market Research PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:27:23 Press Information Transparency Market Research Contact US Abhishek Budholiya State Tower, 90 State Street, Suite 700, Albany NY - 12207 United States Tel: +1-518-618-1030 Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/ Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com email Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 570 Words Contact USAbhishek BudholiyaState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comAbhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Global Decorative Coatings Market: OverviewDecorative or architectural coatings are the paints and finishes that are used on residential and commercial buildings. They are basically employed to decorate rooms by adding colors and make them look fresh and attractive. They also serve as protecting agents from UV radiation, bacteria, corrosion, and moisture. The several applications of decorative coatings include exterior and interior house stains, varnishes, sealers, primers, and paints. Presently, the beauty of any product in terms of its appearance, attractiveness, looks, and aesthetical value is extremely important to make it stand out of its competitors. Thus, decorative paints play a crucial part here. On the basis of type of architecture, the decorative coatings market can be segmented into architectural lacquers, interior solvent based coatings, exterior solvent based coatings, water based coatings, and other types of architectural coatings.The report is an enquiry in the growth of the global decorative coatings market over the last few years and in the upcoming years. The market research study further reasons out the causes of the alterations in the market worldwide. It performs this task by presenting a valuation of the dynamics and the trends ubiquitous from the last few years and the ones that are likely to keep hold of a strong presence during the forecast period. The Porters five forces analysis has been taken into consideration by the analysts to offer a clear view of the vendor landscape to the readers. Mergers, agreements, acquisitions, and other partnerships have also been highlighted in the market research report. The study also delves into the working of several major companies along with information on their products, strategies, and shares in question.A sample of this report is available upon request @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=1450 Global Decorative Coatings Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe global market for decorative coatings is expected to be benefitted by the rising use in construction sector across several countries such as Singapore, Vietnam, India, UAE, Qatar, Mexico, the U.S., and China. The growing demand for these decorative coatings can be warranted due to their appearance and durability on the surface they are being applied to. The mushrooming of shopping malls, housing complexes, office buildings, and residential complexes across the globe is one of the primary factors driving the growth of the global decorative coatings market. The rising interest of consumers towards home decoration and aesthetics along with enhanced living standards are further expected fuel the demand for decorative coatings.Some of the challenges that the market is likely to face is strict regulations regarding the use of toxic chemicals in the paint and their harmful effects on the environment. Convenience, technology, and health concerns may also impede the markets growth in the near future.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=1450 Global Decorative Coatings Market: Regional AnalysisThe market for decorative coatings is expected to be highly benefitted from the growing construction industry in the emerging regions such as Asia Pacific and the Middle East and Africa. The tilt towards westernized architecture and improving living standards is further likely to propel the growth of the market, whereas economic downturn in the developed regions is likely to slow down the market in North America and Asia Pacific.Get access to full summary @: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/decorative-coatings-market.html The digital telepathology market is mainly focused on serving the need for medical research, education, subspecialty pathology, histopathology diagnoses, second opinion diagnosis, and also that of frozen section specimens. PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 11:14:45 Press Information Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 715 Words Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Pathology is the study of diseases and one of the major fields in medicine & diagnosis. It is mainly concerned with the cause, origin and study of different diseases. It is done by examining bodily fluids, tissues, & organs. It is currently divided into eight main areas of study. With the advent of Information Technology and the digital age, a new field has sprung up the digital telepathology market. As the name suggests, it is pathology with the help of telecommunications technology. As opposed to general pathology which is conducted at a short-range, digital telepathology is typically performed at distance. Pathology image-rich data is transferred great distances for the purpose of diagnoses, education or even research purposes. The term was coined by Dr Ronald S. Weinstein in 1986 and he also spoke about the potential of this in a journal publication back then. He is rightly known as the father of telepathology. The digital telepathology market is mainly focused on serving the need for medical research, education, subspecialty pathology, histopathology diagnoses, second opinion diagnosis, and also that of frozen section specimens.Browse Full Report With ToC @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2393 Digital Telepathology Market DriversOne of the main drivers of the digital telepathology market is bound to be the information technology wave sweeping across the world. Western countries already have a strong digital infrastructure, but Internet penetration is rapidly increasing in the developing world. This can enable pathologists to examine, study, and diagnose patients not only in remote locations within the country but also anywhere else in the world. A second factor is a flexibility and convenience offered to seek a second opinion. The digital telepathology market will enable pathologists in any part of the globe to consult their peers in other countries, which will ensure an appropriate diagnosis. According to the W.H.O, cancer cases are expected to increase by nearly 70% in the next twenty years with nearly 1.4 million of them being misdiagnosed. Thus, quick (and appropriate) diagnoses will be critical to saving millions of lives. The third driver is expected to be increasing digitisation in the field of research. Digital pathology is relevant in the field of medical education, histopathology and even for examining frozen section specimens. With the help of digital technology, pathologists could convert physical data into digital files, eliminating the need to physically store it. This would also help them drive down their cost and improve efficiency.Digital Telepathology Market RestraintsThere are a few challenges faced by the digital telepathology market, one of the biggest being cost. Digital telepathology equipment is very expensive which will almost certainly be a problem in developing countries. Government reimbursements are typically unavailable there which makes the initial investment quite difficult. Another issue is regulatory concerns. Digital telepathology walks a fine line between both medicine & technology so each country would have different laws concerning both. There can also be resistance from pathologists themselves. Few pathologists today can truly operate these systems and they might even be unwilling to trust the results. These are some of the reasons why the digital telepathology market is still a niche one at present.Digital Telepathology Market Key RegionsThe digital telepathology market serves the following main geographic regions North America, the E.U., Asia-Pacific, MENA and the rest of the world. North America is the largest market and is anticipated to show moderate growth over the next decade. This is due to a strong healthcare system, regulations like the Affordable Care Act, the high prevalence of various cancers and an ageing population requiring medical assistance. It is also boosted by world-class medical education & research facilities, eager adoption of technology and government reimbursement being available in these critical fields. Europe is the second largest market but is expected to remain flat or post negative growth. However, the high prevalence of cancer in this region will ensure that there remains a strong future for the digital telepathology market there. Asia-Pacific is anticipated to be the market of the future mainly because of China, India and Japan.Request For Report sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2393 Digital Telepathology Market Key Market PlayersSome companies involved in the digital telepathology market include Leica Biosystems, Ventana Medical Systems, Inc., GE Healthcare, Olympus Corporation, Philips Healthcare, MikroSkan Technologies, Inc. and many others. With the recent high-profile cases of cyber-attacks, it is important to keep your information secure since many of us utilize the internet every day. October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign from the Department of Homeland Security to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. Cyber-crimes come in many forms such as identity theft, financial fraud, online bullying and more, causing annoyance and sometimes financial ruin for victims. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) has taken steps to ensure our state is at the forefront of protecting not only our citizens, but also our workplaces from these terrible crimes. For instance, Gov. Eric Holcomb created the Indiana Executive Council on Cybersecurity to combat hacking and cyber-attacks on individuals and organizations. This council has representatives from state government agencies, state security officials, and information technology and computer security experts from the private sector. Here are some tips from IDHS to help protect your personal information: Use strong passwords Do not open unsolicited or unknown emails Use security software tools Enable stronger authentication for log-in information Know the intention of others online before providing access or information Keep web browsers and operating systems up to date Back up important files Be cautious when shopping online I strongly encourage everyone to take their cybersecurity seriously. For more information and tips to improve your cybersecurity, visit www.GetPrepared.in.gov. What do you think? The overall veterinary therapeutic market is growing in the past few years due to the increasing awareness towards veterinary healthcare. Increasing importance among human life for horses is an underpinning factor for the growth of equine veterinary therapeutic market. PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 11:41:31 Press Information Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 648 Words Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Equine veterinary therapeutics is the branch of equine healthcare that deals with the prevention and treatment of several diseases. Equine veterinary therapeutics includes drugs that is used for the treatment of equine diseases, vaccines that used for the prevention of several disease and prevention of equine from various pathological conditions and additives that is used for the overall maintenance of heath and providing with sufficient minerals for a healthy life. The overall veterinary therapeutic market is growing in the past few years due to the increasing awareness towards veterinary healthcare. Increasing importance among human life for horses is an underpinning factor for the growth of equine veterinary therapeutic market. The increasing zoonotic diseases affecting horses are expected to fuel the market of equine veterinary therapeutic market.The increasing awareness towards prevention and well-being of livestock and companion animals is expected to fuel the market of equine veterinary therapeutics market. The equines are majorly consisting of horse racing and betting, leisure and competitive riding. Equines are also used in equinefacilitated therapy which includes therapy for specific motor, sensory and social responses. Therapy with equines is used to promote occupational, emotional and physical growth in patients with several mental disorders. These therapies include therapeutic horseback riding and hippotherapy. Equines healthcare includes equine therapeutics market and equine vaccines market.There are many companies and government initiatives taken to make horse owners and trainers to understand and improve the management of the requirements of their horse. This is one of the reasons for the growth of equine veterinary therapeutics market. The policies includes providing owners with articles written by veterinarians and nutritionists about the requirements and amount of nutrition intakes for the better well-being of equine. There are many research performed for better function of equine muscles using different stimulation process. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is used now for injury healing and enhancement of healing.Browse Full Report With ToC @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2500 Equine Veterinary Therapeutics Market: Drivers and RestraintsEquine veterinary therapeutics market is growing with the increasing focus on return over investment are growing the market. The growing investments on international racing competition from different geographical regions are expected to fuel the market. The increasing animal healthcare base, growing economy, increasing trend towards pet ownerships is also expected to increase the equine veterinary therapeutic market. The increasing pet population and introduction of new products is expected to increase the market of equine therapeutics. The stringent regulations by government are expected to act as a restraint to the market.Equine Veterinary Therapeutics Market: OverviewDrug is the major segment of the market that includes anti-inflammatory, anti- infective, parasitives and others. The other two segment includes vaccines and feed additives. The global vaccine segment is further divided into Recombinant vaccines, Inactivated Vaccines, Live attenuated vaccines and others. The rising awareness among population about different vaccines for equine is expected to boost the market of vaccine segment. The other segment includes medicated feed additives that includes vitamins, antibiotics, amino acids, enzymes and others. The increasing demand for feed additives and affordability is expected to rise the market of this segment. Amino acids are used for better protein production and quality.Equine Veterinary Therapeutics Market: Regional OverviewRegion wise, the global equine veterinary therapeutics market is classified into regions namely, North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific, Japan, Middle East and Africa. North America is expected to lead the market due to better economic condition, better government initiatives and more business investments. Latin America market is expected to hold second largest market share followed by Europe due to increasing trend towards racing competitions and awareness among population.Request For Report sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2500 Market: Key PlayersSome of the players in equine veterinary therapeutics market includes: Merck animal heath, Affymetrix, Elanco animal heath,Zoetis (Pfizer Animal Health), Equine Health U.K.and others. Europe Bio Surgery Market PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:15:33 Press Information Market Data Forecast 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India +1-888-702-9626 (U.S. TOLL FREE), contact@marketdataforecast.com Abhishek Sales Manager +1-888-702-9626 email http://www.marketdataforecast.com/ # 904 Words 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India+1-888-702-9626 (U.S. TOLL FREE), contact@marketdataforecast.comSales Manager+1-888-702-9626 The Europe Bio Surgery Market was worth USD 4.37 billion in 2016 and estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 8.43%, to reach USD 6.55 billion by 2021. Bio Surgery is an area dedicated to providing aid in surgery by focusing on an array of technologies to minimize the intra- and post-operative complications. Solutions commonly used in bio surgery comprise innovative, biologically based products for surgical conditions that are often difficult or expensive to manage otherwise.View Full Report @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-bio-surgery-market-2780/ Bio surgery uses biomaterial, therapeutic, and sophisticated device technologies to improve the health of patients in the orthopaedic and post-surgery care departments. Most bio surgery products work by facilitating homeostasis and tissue healing in surgery. An example of this is fibrin sealant which consists of human fibrinogen and thrombin and helps replicate the tissue healing process by facilitating clotting of blood and thereby stopping the bleeding.The major driver of the Europe Bio Surgery market is the strong focus on research development, which in turn leads to the launch of various new products and various other technological advancements in the field. This along with the increasing number of surgeries due to changing lifestyles and the increasing consumer awareness serve as boosters for the market growth. The major factor restraining the Bio Surgery market in Europe is the non-acceptance of certain products such as human tissue, which is essential for regenerative purposes, due to ethical concerns in certain parts of the region. This along with the high costs and the stringent government regulations act as restraints for the market.The Europe Bio Surgery market is broadly classified into Sealants, Haemostatic Agents, Adhesion Barriers, Soft Tissue Attachments, Bone Graft Substitutes and Staple Line Reinforcement Agents on the basis of type and based on application they are classified under Orthopaedic, General, Neurological, Cardiovascular, Reconstructive, Gynaecological, Urological and Thoracic surgeries. Based on geography, the Europe market is divided into Italy, France, UK, Germany and Spain. The European region has the second highest market share globally only behind the likes of North America, albeit with a low CAGR rate. The low growth rate of the region can be attributed to the fact that most countries in the region are in their pinnacle of development and the room to grow is fast decreasing.Free sample of the report is available @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-bio-surgery-market-2780/request-sample The Bio Surgery market is highly competitive with a large number of players. Key market players Baxter International, C.R. Bard, Johnson & Johnson, Covidien plc., Getinge Group, B. Braun Melsungen AG, Cryolife Inc., Stryker Corporation, Hemostasis LLC., and Sanofi Group.Market Segmentation1) Type Introduction Sealants Natural Synthetic and Semi-Synthetic Haemostatic Agents Adhesion Barriers Synthetic Natural Soft Tissue Attachments Synthetic Meshes Biological Meshes Bone Graft Substitutes Bone Allografts Demineralized Bone Matrix Bone Morphogenetic Proteins Synthetic Bone Grafts Staple Line Reinforcement Agents Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Type Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Type Market Share Analysis, By Type2) Application Introduction Orthopaedic General Neurological Cardiovascular Reconstructive Gynaecological Urological Thoracic Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Application Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Application Market Share Analysis, By ApplicationInquire before Buying at http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-bio-surgery-market-2780/inquire Reasons to buy Europe Bio Surgery Market Research Report: Regional and country-level analysis and forecasts of the study market; providing Insights on the major countries/regions in which this industry is blooming and to also identify the regions that are still untapped Segment-level analysis in terms of technology, component, and type along with market size forecasts and estimations to detect key areas of industry growth in detail Identification of key drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges (DROC) in the market and their impact on shifting market dynamics Study of the effect of exogenous and endogenous factors that affect the global market; which includes broadly demographic, economics, and political, among other macro-environmental factors presented in an extensive PESTLE Analysis Study the micro environment factors that determine the overall profitability of an Industry, using Porters five forces analysis for analysing the level of competition and business strategy development A comprehensive list of key market players along with their product portfolio, current strategic interests, key financial information, legal issues, SWOT analysis and analyst overview to study and sustain the market environment Competitive landscape analysis listing out the mergers, acquisitions, collaborations in the field along with new product launches, comparative financial studies and recent developments in the market by the major companies An executive summary, abridging the entire report in such a way that decision-making personnel can rapidly become acquainted with background information, concise analysis and main conclusions Expertly devised analyst overview along with Investment opportunities to provide both individuals and organizations a strong financial foothold in the marketAbout 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 specialties with competitive pricing options.For more information, kindly visit, www.marketdataforecast.com Contact:Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@ marketdataforecast.com Visit Market Data Forecast Blog @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/ View latest Press Releases of MDF @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/press-releases Europe Neurological Monitoring Devices Market by Type (Monitors of Intracranial Pressure & Blood Flow Dynamics (Intracranial Pressure Monitor, Jugular Venous Oximetry, Transcranial Doppler (TCD) Ultrasonography, Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Brain Tissue Oxygen Tension Monitor) and Monitors of Brain Electrical Activity (Electroencephalography and Evoked Potentials)), Europe Neurological Monitoring Devices Market PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:07:25 Press Information Market Data Forecast 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India +1-888-702-9626 (U.S. TOLL FREE), contact@marketdataforecast.com Abhishek Sales Manager +1-888-702-9626 email http://www.marketdataforecast.com/ # 906 Words 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India+1-888-702-9626 (U.S. TOLL FREE), contact@marketdataforecast.comSales Manager+1-888-702-9626 The Europe Neurological Monitoring Devices Market was worth USD 2.29 billion in 2016 and estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 6.81%, to reach USD 3.19 billion by 2021. Europe holds the second largest share for neurological monitoring device market.As new application avenues, namely clinical long-term monitoring and surgical intra-operative monitoring open up for the European electro-neuro physiological monitors market, the use of these devices is set to gain momentum across the continent. Market entry will become difficult and low profile companies introducing technological advancements will face hurdles.View Full Report @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-neurological-monitoring-devices-market-2234/ The increasing prevalence of neurological disorders in Europe is the main factor driving the neuro physiological monitoring (NPM) devices market. Growing importance of long-term monitoring and intra-operative monitoring is promoting growth in the NPM market, along with increased clinical diagnostic verification of magneto encephalograph (MEG) monitoring equipment. Lack of skilled professionals is hindering the growth of the market.The Europe neurological monitoring devices market is segmented on the basis of type into Monitors of Intracranial Pressure & Blood Flow Dynamics and Monitors of Brain Electrical Activity. Monitors of Intracranial Pressure & Blood Flow Dynamics segment is further divided into Intracranial Pressure Monitor, Jugular Venous Oximetry, Transcranial Doppler (TCD) Ultrasonography, Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Brain Tissue Oxygen Tension Monitor. Monitors of Brain Electrical Activity segment is sub-segmented into Electroencephalography and Evoked Potentials. Based on procedure the market is segregated into Non-Invasive and Invasive. On the basis of therapeutic application, market is bifurcated into Brain Injuries, Stroke, Dementia, Headache Disorders, Sleep Disorders, Epilepsy, Parkinsons Disease and Huntingtons Disease. By End User, the market segmentation is among Hospitals, Neurological Centers and Institutions, Clinics & Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Diagnostic Centers and Ambulances.Free sample of the report is available @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-neurological-monitoring-devices-market-2234/request-sample Based on geography the market is analysed under various countries namely, Germany, U.K, France, Italy and Spain. Spain and Germany are expected to grow at highest CAGR in the forecast period.Key market players include CAS Medical Systems Inc., Compumedics Ltd., Natus Medical Inc., Philips Healthcare, GE Healthcare, AMD Global Telemedicine, Intel Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, InTouch Health, InTechnology, MEG International Services Ltd., Rimed Inc., Siemens Healthcare, Medtronic Inc., Electrical Geodesics Incorporated, Nihon Kohden Corporation and Advanced Brain Monitoring.Market Segmentation1) Type Introduction Monitors of Intracranial Pressure & Blood Flow Dynamics Intracranial Pressure Monitor Jugular Venous Oximetry Transcranial Doppler (TCD) Ultrasonography Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Brain Tissue Oxygen Tension Monitor Monitors of Brain Electrical Activity Electroencephalography Evoked Potentials Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Type Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Type Market Share Analysis, By Type2) Procedure Introduction Non-Invasive Invasive Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Procedure Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Procedure Market Share Analysis, By Procedure3) Therapeutic Application Introduction Traumatic Brain Injuries Stroke Dementia Headache Disorders Sleep Disorders Epilepsy Parkinsons disease Huntingtons disease Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Therapeutic Application Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Therapeutic application Market Share Analysis, By Therapeutic Application4) End User Introduction Hospitals Neurological Centers and Institutions Clinics & Ambulatory Surgical Centers Diagnostic Centers Ambulances Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By End User Market Attractiveness Analysis, By End User Market Share Analysis, By End UserInquire before Buying at http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-neurological-monitoring-devices-market-2234/inquire Reasons to buy Europe Neurological Monitoring Devices Market Research Report: Regional and country-level analysis and forecasts of the study market; providing Insights on the major countries/regions in which this industry is blooming and to also identify the regions that are still untapped Segment-level analysis in terms of technology, component, and type along with market size forecasts and estimations to detect key areas of industry growth in detail Identification of key drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges (DROC) in the market and their impact on shifting market dynamics Study of the effect of exogenous and endogenous factors that affect the global market; which includes broadly demographic, economics, and political, among other macro-environmental factors presented in an extensive PESTLE Analysis Study the micro environment factors that determine the overall profitability of an Industry, using Porters five forces analysis for analysing the level of competition and business strategy development A comprehensive list of key market players along with their product portfolio, current strategic interests, key financial information, legal issues, SWOT analysis and analyst overview to study and sustain the market environment Competitive landscape analysis listing out the mergers, acquisitions, collaborations in the field along with new product launches, comparative financial studies and recent developments in the market by the major companies An executive summary, abridging the entire report in such a way that decision-making personnel can rapidly become acquainted with background information, concise analysis and main conclusions Expertly devised analyst overview along with Investment opportunities to provide both individuals and organizations a strong financial foothold in the marketAbout 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 specialties with competitive pricing options.For more information, kindly visit, www.marketdataforecast.com Contact:Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@ marketdataforecast.com Visit Market Data Forecast Blog @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/ View latest Press Releases of MDF @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/press-releases Europe Single-Cell Analysis Market by cells, by technique (Flow Cytometry, NGS, PCR, Microscopy, Mass Spectrometry and Other Techniques), by application (Research Application and Medical Application), and by Region - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecasts (20162021) Europe Single-Cell Analysis Market PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:10:53 Press Information Market Data Forecast 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India +1-888-702-9626 (U.S. TOLL FREE), contact@marketdataforecast.com Abhishek Sales Manager +1-888-702-9626 email http://www.marketdataforecast.com/ # 1001 Words 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India+1-888-702-9626 (U.S. TOLL FREE), contact@marketdataforecast.comSales Manager+1-888-702-9626 The Europe Single-Cell Analysis Market was worth USD 0.36 billion in 2016 and estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 16.27%, to reach USD 0.76 billion by 2021. Many biological experiments are performed with the base assumption that all cells in particular group are identical and homogenous. Single-cell analysis was introduced after the above-mentioned myth was busted and it became evident that cells within a group are heterogenous. Individual cells of a population may differ vastly and these differences bring a vast number of consequences to health and functioning of the population as a whole.New approaches to single-cell analysis is aimed at uncovering the fundamental biological principles and ultimately leading to an improved and efficient disease detection system. The information collected may also prove invaluable in the treatment of diseases. Other applications of single-cell analysis include, unlocking the gene-expression profiles between individual cells and discovering previously undetected subpopulations that escaped detection due to the mistake of taking averages of the entire cell population.View Full Report @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-single-cell-analysis-market-2777/ The single-cell analysis market is driven by factors such as the increased use of microfluidics in single-cell analysis instruments and the increasing interest in single-cell analysis research as is evident from the number of conferences and meetings on the higher adoption of single-cell analysis. Additionally, growing consumer awareness about technological advancements in the medical field has led to a newfound demand for personalized medicine. Single-cell analysis is an important research sector in personalized medicine development and is driven by the demand as well. Inspite of the positives outweighing the negatives, the growth rate is still hampered by the high costs of the instruments used in said analysis. Even in financially rich regions, the excessive costs of the instruments put single-cell analysis beyond the reach of majority of the population.The Europe Single-Cell Analysis market is broadly classified into Consumables such as beads, microplates, reagents, assay kits and others and Instruments such as Flow Cytometers, NGS Systems, PCR instruments and others, on the basis of product and on the basis of cell type they are divided into Human, Animal and Microbial Cells. Furthermore, based on application they are classified into Research Application and Medical Application. Based on technique used, they are classified into Flow Cytometry, NGS, PCR, Microscopy, Mass Spectrometry and Other Techniques. Based on geography, the Europe market is divided into Italy, UK, Spain, Germany and France. The region has the second highest market share globally, only behind the likes of North America. The relevance of the market may decrease in coming years, due to high growth rate of markets such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America who have higher CAGRs than Europe. At present Europe makes up about a fourth of the total market value globally.Free sample of the report is available @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-single-cell-analysis-market-2777/request-sample The single-cell analysis market is highly competitive with a large number of players. Some of the major ones are Merck KGaA, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Promega Corporation, Danaher Corporation, General ElectricCompany, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Miltenyi Biotec, Illumina, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Fluidigm Corporation, NanoString Technologies, Agilent Technologies, Abcam Plc, NuGEN Technologies Inc., LumaCyte, PluriSelect Life Science UG & Co. KG, Sysmex Partec, Bio-Techne Corporation, Promega Corporation, 10x Genomics, WaferGen Bio-systems, Bruker, and Fluxion Bioscience.Market Segmentation1) Cell Introduction Human Cells Animal Cells Microbial Cells Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Cell Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Cell Market Share Analysis, By Cell2) Products Introduction Consumables Instruments Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Products Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Products Market Share Analysis, By Products3) Techniques Introduction Flow Cytometry NGS PCR Microscopy Mass Spectrometry Other Techniquess Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Techniques Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Techniques Market Share Analysis, By Techniques4) Applications Introduction Research Application Medical Application Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, By Applications Market Attractiveness Analysis, By Applications Market Share Analysis, By ApplicationsInquire before Buying at http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/europe-single-cell-analysis-market-2777/inquire Reasons to buy Europe Single-Cell Analysis Market Research Report: Regional and country-level analysis and forecasts of the study market; providing Insights on the major countries/regions in which this industry is blooming and to also identify the regions that are still untapped Segment-level analysis in terms of technology, component, and type along with market size forecasts and estimations to detect key areas of industry growth in detail Identification of key drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges (DROC) in the market and their impact on shifting market dynamics Study of the effect of exogenous and endogenous factors that affect the global market; which includes broadly demographic, economics, and political, among other macro-environmental factors presented in an extensive PESTLE Analysis Study the micro environment factors that determine the overall profitability of an Industry, using Porters five forces analysis for analyzing the level of competition and business strategy development A comprehensive list of key market players along with their product portfolio, current strategic interests, key financial information, legal issues, SWOT analysis and analyst overview to study and sustain the market environment Competitive landscape analysis listing out the mergers, acquisitions, collaborations in the field along with new product launches, comparative financial studies and recent developments in the market by the major companies An executive summary, abridging the entire report in such a way that decision-making personnel can rapidly become acquainted with background information, concise analysis and main conclusions Expertly devised analyst overview along with Investment opportunities to provide both individuals and organizations a strong financial foothold in the marketAbout Us: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, we cater to the needs of both individual and corporate clients. Our analyst team comprises expert professionals in market research, who with their collective knowledge and skillset dedicatedly serve clients from various industries and regions.Contact:Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@ marketdataforecast.com Visit Market Data Forecast Blog @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/ View latest Press Releases of MDF @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/press-releases PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:12:23 Press Information Future Market Insights 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989, United States T: +1-347-918-3531 F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website :www.futuremarketinsights.com Rahul Singh Marketing Head +1-347-918-3531 email Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 570 Words 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite :www.futuremarketinsights.comMarketing Head+1-347-918-3531Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Future Market Insights (FMI) announces the release of its latest report titled, Fatty Amines Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2015-2020. According to the report, the global fatty amines market was valued at US$ 1,721 Mn in 2014 and is anticipated to reach US$ 2,193 Mn by 2020, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% through the forecast period.Fatty Amines Market Driven by Booming Water Treatment Chemicals Industry & Demand for Agro-chemicalsGlobal fatty amines market is driven by growing water treatment chemicals industry and increasing demand for agro-chemicals and asphalt additives, mainly in the developing countries. Water treatment chemicals contribute the highest in terms of demand and share to the global fatty amines market, as compared to the other application segments. Increasing usage of fatty amines in various end-user applications coupled with market expansion and development of novel applications, such as detergents, mining, paints & coatings and fabric softener are further driving the fatty amines market growth. However, fluctuations in availability and volatile raw material prices pose a challenge for the global fatty amines market.Market SegmentsThe global fatty amines market is segmented on the basis of product type, application and geography.View and Download TOC of Fatty Amines Market Research Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/fatty-amines-market/toc By product type, global fatty amines market is segmented into primary fatty amines, secondary fatty amines and tertiary fatty amines. Among these segments, tertiary fatty amines accounted for approximately 48.1% of global value market share in 2014. Furthermore, it is expected to dominate the global fatty amines market throughout the forecast period, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.6% between 2015 and 2020.The primary fatty amines market accounted for over 25% of the market value share in 2014 and is expected to increase at a comparatively high CAGR of 4.9%, during the forecast period, owing to its increasing consumption in water treatment chemicals and paints & coatings industry as additives to protect the paints from getting tainted while in storage.The secondary fatty amines segment accounted for approximately 23% of the global value market share in 2014, and is expected to gain its market share and account for 23.3% of the global fatty amines market by 2020.On the bases of application, the global fatty amines market is segmented into water treatment chemicals, agro-chemicals, oilfield chemicals, asphalt additives, anti-caking and others (used in personal care, mining, fabric softener, paints & coatings). Among the aforementioned segments, water treatment chemicals is expected to dominate the global fatty amines market with over 29% market revenue share throughout the forecast period. Growing paints & coatings industry, coupled with increasing automobile production in China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Mexico is expected to further propel the demand for fatty amines in the asphalt additives application segment. The scope of applications for fatty amines in others segment is expected to expand in the future too, due to market expansion and innovation in techniques.Request and Download Sample Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-361 On the bases of region, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ) dominated the global fatty amines market in 2014, in terms of revenue, accounting for more than 25% of the revenue share. However, North America and Eastern Europe are foreseen to witness relatively high CAGRs of 6.4% and 5.3%, respectively.Competitive LandscapeKey players considered in the global fatty amines market include Kao Corporation, Evonik Industries AG, AkzoNobel N.V., DuPont, Clariant AG, CECA Arkema Group, Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, Volant-Chem Group, Procter & Gamble Chemicals Company and LonzaBuy Full Fatty Amines Market Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/361 PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:05:01 Expanded services help fuel strong growth in Spain and across Europe BOSTON, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Flywire, a provider of international payment and receivables solutions for businesses, schools and healthcare providers, is reporting strong growth in Spain. The company, which recently expanded its European headquarters in Valencia, has added new services to support international payments from new regions, added new payment options, and created educational forums for customers and partners. Originally founded in 2011 in Valencia, Flywire serves both educational institutions in Spain targeting international students, as well as those students and families they receive cross-border payments from. To date, the company has processed over $5 billion in international payments and established its platform as the preferred solution around the globe for cross-border payments and receivables processing. With Flywire, schools around the world can offer their customers a highly-tailored, international payment experience - customized by country, currency and institution. In addition, school financial and operations teams benefit from easy payment tracking and reconciliation. In Spain, there are a number of recent highlights and milestones for the company: Increased Number of Payments Processed Flywire has seen a 200+% increase in the volume of payments processed in the last 2 years - both in Spain and across Europe, with expectations for similar growth in the next 12 months. Increased Number of Clients Served The company has also doubled the number of schools it serves in Spain. Recent additions to the Flywire client list include IESE, ESADE, and UCAM. Employee Growth As the original corporate headquarters for Flywire, Valencia is an important base for the company, and home to much of the company's engineering team and administrative operations. The company continues to grow the team in Valencia and across Europe with a 60% increase in the last 12 months. For more information on available positions, visit https://www.flywire.com/careers. New Payment Options for Latin American Students Spain has seen a sharp increase in the number of students traveling from Latin America for their education in recent years, +27% last year alone. To support this demand, Flywire has added new payment options to ensure students originating in Latin America can pay via their preferred local methods - credit card, bank transfer, or payment wallet options; and in local currencies as well as US dollars and Euros. Expanded International Coverage In addition to Latin America, Flywire has also expanded its support for payments across the globe. The additions of Alipay in Asia, and PayPal worldwide give international students attending schools in Spain more payment options and make those cross-border payments as convenient as possible. Thought Leadership Flywire is hosting two FlyForums in Spain this month. The thought leadership events are part of a global series designed to bring together education institutions doing business internationally to discuss and share their thoughts on some of the key issues surrounding international student recruitment, cross-border payment processing, security, and customer service. The first took place in Madrid on 10 October and another is scheduled for Barcelona on 26 October. Key discussion topics include compliance, money laundering prevention, and international recruitment support. "Spain has become an increasingly popular destination for International education," said Mike Massaro, president and CEO of Flywire. "We expect to continue to play a small but important role in that growth by making the cross-border payment process as easy, efficient and transparent as possible for schools and their international students." About Flywire Flywire is a leading provider of international payment solutions, connecting businesses and institutions with their customers on six continents. Introduced six years ago as a way for international students to pay their tuition for studies abroad, Flywire is now used by over 1,300 organizations across 18 countries around the world. The company processes billions in payments per year from 220 countries and territories, via bank transfer, credit card and e-wallet solutions, in over 120 different local currencies. Convenient, fast and secure, Flywire's scalable platform provides currency conversion at exchange rates that can offer significant savings when compared to home-market banks and credit card providers. The company also supports its clients with end-to-end customer support including multilingual servicing via phone, email, and chat, as well as 24/7 online payment tracking. Flywire is headquartered in Boston, MA with operations in London and Manchester, UK; Shanghai, China; Tokyo, Japan; Singapore; Sydney, Australia; and Valencia, Spain. For more information, visit www.Flywire.com. Latin America Prenatal and Neonatal Equipment Care Market is estimated to reach $0.60 billion by 2021. "Browse And Choose From Our World Class Research Reports" PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 14:52:27 Press Information Market Data Forecast USA Abhishek Shukla Sales Manager (International Business Development) +1-888-702-9626 email http://www.marketdataforecast.com/ # 498 Words USASales Manager (International Business Development)+1-888-702-9626 The Latin America Prenatal and Neonatal Equipment Care Market was worth $0.45 billion in 2016 and estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 5.80%, to reach $0.60 billion by 2021. Prenatal, fetal and neonatal equipment consist of those equipment and devices that aid in taking care of newly born infants and babies growing inside the mothers womb.Premature and congenitally ill babies are born as a consequence of late maternal age, induced fertility, labour treatments, deprived prenatal care and modification in lifestyle predilections. Roughly. Those neonates who outlive prematurity, experience various forms of disabilities, thus various neonatal equipment have been created to help treat prematurity.Full report at: http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/latin-america-prenatal-and-neonatal-equipment-care-market-740/ The growth of the Latin America Prenatal and Neonatal Equipment Care market is majorly driven by factors such as growing incidences of preterm birth, increasing awareness for prenatal and neonatal care, and government policies to provide better care for prenatal and neonatal children. However, poor availability of proper neonatal care in this region is one of the major factor restricting the growth of the market.The Latin America Prenatal and Neonatal Equipment Care Market is segmented into prenatal and fetal equipment, neonatal equipment and others. The prenatal and fetal equipment is further segmented into Ultrasound and Ultrasonography Devices, Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Fetal Dopplers, Fetal Monitors, and others. Based on neonatal equipment the market is further segmented into Infant Warmers and Incubators, Neonatal Monitoring Devices, Respiratory Assistance and Monitoring Devices, Phototherapy Equipment, and others. The neonatal care equipment segment accounts for the larger share of the Market, while the fetal care equipment segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period.Latin America market region includes countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and remaining countries of South America. Brazil accounts for the major part of the Prenatal and Neonatal Equipment Care market in this region followed by Argentina. Other emerging markets in this region are Uruguay, Paraguay, Colombia, Chile, and Bolivia.Request sample: http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/latin-america-prenatal-and-neonatal-equipment-care-market-740/request-sample Some of the major companies dominating this market are CareFusion Corporation, Covidien PLC, Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA, Cooper Surgical, Inc., GE Healthcare, Getinge AB, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited, Natus Medical Incorporated, Philips Healthcare, and Siemens Healthcare.About Market Data Forecast:The publisher of this report is Market Data Forecast whose forte lies in Market research and Business Intelligence. Handling both individual and corporate clients across multiple business domains they offer syndicated/customized research to suit the clients research objective. Their research reports section offers a wide variety of market studies ranging from all-encompassing comprehensive market studies to product specific niche markets covering North America among other regions of the global market as well. For more info kindly visit, www.marketdataforecast.com Contact:Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@ marketdataforecast.com Visit MarketDataForecast Blog @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/ View latest Press Releases of MDF @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/press-releases Latin America Ultrasound Devices Market is projected to reach USD 0.8 Billion by 2021 "Browse And Choose From Our World Class Research Reports" PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 14:58:49 Press Information Market Data Forecast USA Abhishek Shukla Sales Manager (International Business Development) +1-888-702-9626 email http://www.marketdataforecast.com/ # 554 Words USASales Manager (International Business Development)+1-888-702-9626 The Latin America Ultrasound Devices Market has been estimated at USD 0.58 Billion in 2016 and is projected to reach USD 0.8 Billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 6.93% during the forecast period from 2016 to 2021. Medical sonography (ultrasonography) is an ultrasound-based diagnostic medical imaging technique used to visualize muscles, tendons, and many internal organs, to capture their size, structure and any pathological lesions with real time tomographic images. Ultrasound has been used by radiologists and sonographers to image the human body.Full report at: http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/latin-america-ultrasound-devices-market-579/ Market growth in Latin America can be attributed to the rising patient population base for chronic and lifestyle-related disorders (such as hypertension and vascular disorders) coupled with growing geriatric population; technological advancements; increasing public-private investments, funds, and grants; and growing market demand for minimally invasive disease diagnosis and treatment. However, dearth of skilled and experienced sonographers and technological limitations of ultrasound systems are some of the factors restricting the market growth.Latin America market for Ultrasound devices is segmented based on Technology, Device Display, Portability, and Application. By Technology, the market is segmented as Diagnostic Ultrasound (2D Ultrasound, 3D & 4D Ultrasound, Doppler Ultrasound) and Therapeutic Ultrasound (High-intensity Focused Ultrasound, Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy). By Device Display, the market is segmented as Color Ultrasound Devices and Black and White Ultrasound Devices. By Portability, the market is segmented as Trolley/Cart-based Ultrasound Devices and Compact/Handheld Ultrasound Devices. By Application, the market is segmented as Radiology/General Imaging, Cardiology, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Vascular, Urology and Other Applications (Includes Breast Imaging, Hepatology, Anesthesiology, and Emergency Care). The trolley/cart-based ultrasound devices segment is expected to account for the largest share of the Latin America ultrasound market in 2015; whereas, the compact/handheld ultrasound devices segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Cardiology application is expected to be the fastest growing segment during forecast period owing to rising incidence of cardiac diseases across the globe.Geographically, Latin America market for Ultrasound devices is segmented into Brazil, Argentina and Mexico. Rising demand for minimally invasive diagnostic as well as therapeutic devices is primarily driving the growth of the market, which is attracting the companies to invest in this region.Request sample: http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/latin-america-ultrasound-devices-market-579/request-sample General Electric Company (U.S.), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Toshiba Corporation (Japan), Siemens AG (Germany), Hitachi Ltd. (Japan), Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (South Korea), FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation (Japan), Esaote S.p.A. (Italy), Mindray Medical International Ltd. (China), and Analogic Corporation (U.S.) are some of the key players in the Latin America ultrasound market.About Market Data Forecast:The publisher of this report is Market Data Forecast whose forte lies in Market research and Business Intelligence. Handling both individual and corporate clients across multiple business domains they offer syndicated/customized research to suit the clients research objective. Their research reports section offers a wide variety of market studies ranging from all-encompassing comprehensive market studies to product specific niche markets covering North America among other regions of the global market as well. For more info kindly visit, www.marketdataforecast.com Contact:Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@ marketdataforecast.com Visit MarketDataForecast Blog @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/ View latest Press Releases of MDF @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/press-releases PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:07:06 Press Information Future Market Insights 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989, United States T: +1-347-918-3531 F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website :www.futuremarketinsights.com Rahul Singh Marketing Head +1-347-918-3531 email Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 544 Words 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite :www.futuremarketinsights.comMarketing Head+1-347-918-3531Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Future Market Insights, in its latest report titled,Lead Acid Battery Market: Asia Pacific, Latin America, Japan, Middle East & Africa Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2014 - 2020, states that the target regions lead acid battery market accounted for US$ 24,210.5 Million in 2014, and is expected to reach US$ 31,708.4 Million at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific, which accounted for the major chunk in the target regions lead acid battery market, is expected to expand at an estimated CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period.By application type, the target regions lead acid battery market is segmented as transportation, stationary industrial, motive industrial, commercial, residential, and grid storage. Transportation and stationary industrial collectively contributed to around 82.4% of market revenue in 2014. Transportation was the largest end-use application in the target regions lead acid battery market in 2014, and is anticipated to continue its dominance through 2020. Stationary industrial is the second largest contributor to the target regions lead acid battery market, and is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period.The report finds that grid storage is one of the smallest end-use application segments in the target regions lead acid battery market, but is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period.View and Download TOC of Lead Acid Battery Market Research Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/lead-acid-battery-market/toc Lead acid batteries are predominantly used in passenger cars, commercial vehicles and two wheelers. In addition to that, demand for lead acid battery has also surged due to the increasing adoption of UPS, owing to rapid urbanisation and industrialisation. Adoption of grid storage technology in developing countries such as India and China is expected to fuel the target regions lead acid battery market. In addition to that, an increase in the demand for electric vehicles is expected to further accelerate the expansion of the lead acid battery market globally.Moreover, key challenges in the lead acid battery market are raw material price volatility and stringent emission regulations. Lead is the essential raw material used in the manufacturing of lead acid batteries. Lead prices account for approximately 49% of the overall cost of the lead acid batteries. Any fluctuations in lead prices affect the overall profitability of lead acid battery manufacturers.Request and Download Sample Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-430 Region-wise, Asia Pacific is the largest contributor in the target regions lead acid battery market, and is expected to continue its dominance till 2020. Currently, the Asia Pacific lead acid battery market is valued at US$ 15,995 Million and is expected to reach US$ 19,881 Million by 2020. Latin America and Japan are other major markets contributing 14.4% and 14.1% respectively, to the target regions lead acid battery revenue. Middle East & Africa accounted for the lowest contribution in terms of revenue in 2014, but is expected to register a significant growth at a CAGR of 4.9% over the forecast period.The degree of competition in the target regions lead acid battery market has been analysed in the report, which also presents the comparative view of the key strategies and financial outlook of major companies operating in target regions lead acid battery market. These include Johnson Controls INC, Exide Technologies, GS Yuasa Corporation, EnerSys and Yokohama Industries.Buy Full Lead Acid Battery Market Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/430 PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 14:00:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 405 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:LED Medical Diagnostics Announces Proposed Issuance of Senior Secured DebenturesTo 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, OTCQB: LEDIF, FWB: LME, WKN: A1KC2E, ISIN: CA50184T1093)Date: October 17, 2017Time: 8:00 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.) Carson Eggland learned at a young age to always assume the positive. I got that from my parents, Eggland said. Ive tried to live my life like that. As executive director of Helping Services for Youth & Families, a nonprofit organization based in Decorah, Iowa, Eggland leads a team working as youth mentors and victims of domestic abuse in a nine-county area. We have an outstanding team of committed, hard-working individuals doing their absolute best to serve families and children throughout Northeast Iowa, he said. I find fulfillment in the goal of providing a working environment that both retains current team members and recruits top-notch employees when positions become open. The work of both providing quality services in communities we serve and creating a work environment where people can thrive is the ultimate satisfaction. He was led into his work for a simple, yet profound desire. I want it to mean something to me, he said. Every day, every moment has to count. Its a moral hes embraced since age 10, when Eggland was diagnosed with cystinosis, a lysosomal storage disease characterized by the abnormal accumulation of the amino acid cystine. It is a genetic disorder that typically follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Life expectancy usually isnt that long. Mine is not as severe as others, he said. Each of the threads of Egglands life goes into weaving the particular culture he helps cultivate at Helping Services, which also extends into the communities it serves. His bachelors in business management from the University of Iowa also serves as a huge asset. Armed with his qualifications and his positive attitude, Eggland helps spearhead a drive-through holiday lights show hosted at the Decorah campground. The fundraiser not only raises important resources for Helping Services, it also attracts visitors to the community from surrounding counties and states. He has also been involved with the local Decorah Rotary club, both as a board member, and co-coordinator of the annual Loop de Loop road race. The club has more than 80 members and hosts a number of community-based projects throughout the year. Eggland also has been key in starting the 100+ Men Who Care: Driftless Chapter. The Decorah chapter has met four times during the past year and donated more than $20,000 to area nonprofit organizations. Seeing community members become engaged in the group and passionate about various causes has been fulfilling, he said. It is an honor to nominate Carson for Rising Stars Under 40, said Kristina Wiltgen, executive director of the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce. Carson not only works for an organization that provides tremendous resources to the area, but he often goes above and beyond in the community outside of work. His passion for the Decorah area is evident. We are fortunate to have him in our community. Theres one other aspect, and its immediately apparent to anyone who spends time with Eggland: He takes enormous pride in the work he collaborates on. PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 13:30:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 392 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Lightning Ventures Inc.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCWire) - Lightning Ventures Inc. (CSE:LVI). has issued a press release with the following headline:Lightning Ventures Appoints Robert Tjandra to Board of AdvisorsTo 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 Lightning Ventures 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/Lightning Ventures Inc.Source: Lightning Ventures Inc. (CSE: LVI, FWB: 1HM, WKN: A2AMC8, ISIN: CA5322481014)Date: October 17, 2017Time: 7:30 AM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Lightning Ventures 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: 2017-10-17 08:15:38 Press Information Future Market Insights 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989, United States T: +1-347-918-3531 F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website :www.futuremarketinsights.com Rahul Singh Marketing Head +1-347-918-3531 email Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 584 Words 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite :www.futuremarketinsights.comMarketing Head+1-347-918-3531Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Future Market Insights (FMI), in its recent report titled, N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone (NMP) Market: Global Industry Analysis & Opportunity Assessment, 2014 - 2020, forecasts that the global N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone market will witness a steady CAGR of 4.7% between 2015 and 2020. NMP accounted for around US$ 660 Mn of the US$ 3.2 trillion generated by the global chemicals market in 2013, and FMI estimates it to reach a valuation of US$ 985 Mn by 2020.N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone, also referred to as N-Methylpyrrolidone, is an organic, colourless, polar aprotic solvent characterised by relatively lower volatility and higher flash point. It is obtained through the process of condensation of gamma butyrolactone and monomethylamine. Owing to such properties, NMP is used across diverse industries in a wide range of end-uses.View and Download TOC of N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone (NMP) Market Research Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/global-n-methyl-2-pyrrolidone-market/toc FMIs latest report analyses the global NMP market in terms of market value (US$ Mn) and volume (000 tonne) by segmenting the market on the basis of applications and regions. The report offers insights and data related to prevalent trends, and impact analysis of the various drivers and restraints in the market. It also provides detailed information and statistics of some of the leading players in the industry in the form of company profiles.Demand from Asia Pacific Anticipated to Fuel the NMP MarketGrowth in the end-use industry is expected to emerge as the primary factor driving growth of the global NMP market during the forecast period. Moreover, growing demand from developing countries across the globe, especially those in Asia Pacific, is expected to fuel growth of the global NMP market between 2015 and 2020. However, NMP has been listed as a developmental and reproductive toxin by regulatory bodies across the globe, particularly in Europe and North America. As such, application of NMP in paints & coatings and industrial cleaners segments is expected to be adversely affected in the near future, especially in markets in Europe and North America. This is likely to result in slower growth rates of the abovementioned segments in the global NMP market over the forecast period.Request and Download Sample Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-625 On the basis of regions, the global NMP market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South America. By application, the market has been segmented into electronics, petrochemical processing, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, paints & coatings and industrial cleaners and others.Asia Pacific accounts for highest share in terms of revenue contribution, owing to industrial growth in the region, and this trend is expected to continue over the forecast period. The region is anticipated to register a CAGR of 7.5% in terms of market value, thus dominating the global NMP market over the forecast period. However, mature markets such as North America and Europe are slated to witness relatively slower growths in terms of NMP consumption during the forecast period.On the basis of application, the electronics segment is expected to account for majority as compared to other application-based segments, and will register a steady CAGR of 6.7% during the forecast period. However, the other major application segments such as petrochemical processing, pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals are also expected to register steady year-on-year growth rates during the forecast period.The Key market players covered in the report include BASF SE, Ashland Inc., LyondellBasell Industries N.V., Shandong Qingyun Changxin Chemical Science-Tech Co. Ltd, Hefei TNJ Chemical Industry Co. Ltd, and Zhejiang Realsun Chemical Industry Co., Ltd among others.Buy Full N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone (NMP) Market Report@ www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/625 PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 10:55:04 Press Information Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 632 Words Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that is associated with Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS), hypnagogic hallucinations, cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and fragmented night sleep. It is the brain inability to control sleep-wake cycles. Sleep attack can occur during any activity such as driving, during the conversation, while eating or playing. People with narcolepsy have strong urge to sleep and possess a lack of energy. Cataplexy is the impulsive loss of muscles function with weakness in muscles; it may last for few seconds or minutes. It is triggered by emotions such as fear, laughter or surprise; it frequently occurs during the stress of fatigue. Sleep paralysis is characterized by temporarily unable to move any part of the body. It is triggered by fear, but it does not cause any harm. Sleep paralysis may occur in 15% of the population. People with narcolepsy may also experience hallucinations that are characterized by realistic and often frightening dreams.Narcolepsy caused due to any mental illness, lack of brain chemical known as hypocretin or it may also be due to any inherited conditions, infections, trauma, hormonal changes, stress or immune-system dysfunction, etc. About 10% of patients with narcolepsy with cataplexy have a genetic predisposition. Narcolepsy can occur in both men and women and can begin any age, typically occurs in the early twenties and lasts all through life. People with narcolepsy experience normal life span, it is believed that in every 2000 people, one suffers from narcolepsy in the United States. Hypocretins, a neurotransmitter is involved in regulating sleep/wake cycle along with other metabolic functions. Researchers discovered that in the hypothalamus, located in the brain, hypocretin-producing cells are destroyed in patients with narcolepsy and cataplexy. The cause of the destruction of hypocretin cells is not known yet, though it is an auto-immune disorder.Request for Report TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/13774 Narcolepsy is the third most common sleep disorder diagnosed and affects a large segment of the population. The prevalence rate of narcolepsy compared to the U.S. population, is substantially lower in Israel, about one in 500,000 people and considerably higher in Japan i.e. about one per 600. Narcolepsy is not curable, but it can be treated with drugs such as dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, and others to reduce the incidence of sleep attack.Global narcolepsy treatment market is segmented by type and therapeutic treatment. Based on the type, global narcolepsy treatment market is segmented into primary narcolepsy with cataplexy, primary narcolepsy without cataplexy, narcolepsy due to medical conditions and unspecified narcolepsy. By therapeutic treatment, the global narcolepsy treatment market is segmented into central nervous system stimulants, sodium oxybate, and antidepressants. Rising prevalence of the disease increased awareness of healthcare professional, demand for new and innovative drugs is anticipated to drive the global narcolepsy treatment market. In 2009, H1N1 influenza pandemic in Europe led to rising in the incidence of the sleep disorder narcolepsy. Whereas inadequate access to health care, cost, and availability of essential medicines and lack of standardized tools for diagnosis and treatment will hamper the growth of global narcolepsy treatment market.By regional presence, the global narcolepsy treatment market is segmented into five broad regions viz. North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. Europe market is projected to experience high growth due to government initiative in research and development. Asia Pacific market is anticipated to grow at the fastest growth rate during the forecast period, owing to factors such as rising standard of living, lifestyle changes, focusing on healthcare expenditures and due to the high prevalence rate in Japan compared to other countries worldwide.Request for Report Sample @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/13774 Some of the major players in global narcolepsy treatment market are Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc, Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Graymark Healthcare, Inc., Shire Plc, Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Others. PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 10:02:01 NEC Europe Appoints Hironobu Kurosaki as President and CEO NEC Corporation Joseph Jasper, +81-3-3798-6511 NEC Europe Ltd. today announced the appointment of Hironobu Kurosaki as President and CEO. In this role, Mr. Kurosaki will lead the growth of NEC Europes business for a broad range of customers spanning across its key business segments of Public Safety, Public IT services and Telecom Carrier Solutions in the EMEA region (Europe, the Middle East and Africa). Since joining NEC in 1983, Mr. Kurosaki has gained extensive international experience in the development of sales, marketing and strategy throughout the Americas and EMEA. In recent years, he has played a leading role in the development of NECs global business, where his experience as President of NEC Telecommunication and Information Technology Ltd. (Turkey), and contributions as General Manager of NECs Americas and EMEA Division have helped to deliver high-powered solutions and drive new growth in strategic markets. In the face of terrorism and other public threats, it is becoming a top priority throughout EMEA to strengthen the security and surveillance of borders, public spaces and major infrastructure, such as airports, said Mr. Kurosaki. There are now a wide range of initiatives being started in order to ensure the safety, security and efficiency of our cities. NECs Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and solutions make valuable contributions to these initiatives and help ensure that cities throughout EMEA are safer and smarter. I look forward to further addressing these important needs and creating new social value by capitalizing on NEC's ICT, including some of the worlds leading Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) advancements, while building on the relationships of trust we hold with our customers and partners. About NEC Europe Ltd. NEC Europe is a wholly owned subsidiary of NEC Corporation, a leader in the integration of IT network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. As one of NEC Corporations regional headquarters, NEC Europe promotes innovation throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) by providing its expertise, solutions and services to a broad range of customers, from telecom operators to enterprises and public sector organizations. For additional information, please visit the NEC Europe home page at: http://uk.nec.com/ NEC is a registered trademark of NEC Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Other product or service marks mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners. 2017 NEC Corporation. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/201710170051 PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 10:57:03 Hydro's third quarter results 2017 will be released at 07:00 CET (01:00 AM EST, 06:00 UK time), on Wednesday October 25, 2017. The quarterly report and presentation slides will be available on www.hydro.com at the same time. Presentation in Oslo Hydro will host a combined analyst and press conference, in English, at its corporate headquarters at Drammensveien 260, Oslo, at 08:30 CET the same day. The presentation will be held by President and CEO Svein Richard Brandtzg and CFO Eivind Kallevik and can also be seen on web TV. To attend the presentation in Oslo, please register by sending a mail to ir@hydro.com. In addition to the webcast, it will also be possible to dial in (not possible to ask questions over the phone). Dial-in numbers for this conference call are: Norway +47 2100 2610 UK +44 (0)330 336 9105 USA +1 719-457-2086 Sweden +46 (0)8 5033 6574 Confirmation Code: 1762939 Q&A / Conference Call There will be a Conference Call at 14:00 UK Time (15:00 CET, 09:00 AM EST) the same day. The Q&A will be held by President and CEO Svein Richard Brandtzg and CFO Eivind Kallevik. The Q&A will be available for two months on www.hydro.com. Dial-in numbers for this conference call are: Norway +47 2350 0296 UK +44 (0)330 336 9411 USA +1 719-325-2213 Sweden +46 (0)8 5065 3942 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: Norsk Hydro via Globenewswire North America Ultrasound Devices Market is projected to reach USD 1.97 Billion by 2021 "Browse And Choose From Our World Class Research Reports" PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 15:00:37 Press Information Market Data Forecast USA Abhishek Shukla Sales Manager (International Business Development) +1-888-702-9626 email http://www.marketdataforecast.com/ # 600 Words USASales Manager (International Business Development)+1-888-702-9626 The North America Ultrasound Devices Market has been estimated at USD 1.55 Billion in 2016 and is projected to reach USD 1.97 Billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period from 2016 to 2021. Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. It is used to help diagnose the causes of pain, swelling and infection in the bodys internal organs and to examine a baby in pregnant women and the brain and hips in infants. Its also used to help guide biopsies, diagnose heart conditions, and assess damage after a heart attack.Full report at: http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/north-america-ultrasound-devices-market-576/ In North America, the introduction of technically advanced products with user-friendly and compact designs that offer easy portability is the prime factor resulting in the rapid adoption of handheld devices. Moreover, the shifting trend towards home healthcare and remote patient monitoring to reduce hospitalization cost is augmenting the demand for handheld ultrasound devices. The restraint associated with the growth of the global ultrasound device market includes stringent regulations for the approval of ultrasound device.North America market for Ultrasound devices is segmented based on Technology, Device Display, Portability, and Application. By Technology, the market is segmented as Diagnostic Ultrasound (2D Ultrasound, 3D & 4D Ultrasound, Doppler Ultrasound) and Therapeutic Ultrasound (High-intensity Focused Ultrasound, Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy). By Device Display, the market is segmented as Color Ultrasound Devices and Black and White Ultrasound Devices. By Portability, the market is segmented as Trolley/Cart-based Ultrasound Devices and Compact/Handheld Ultrasound Devices. By Application, the market is segmented as Radiology/General Imaging, Cardiology, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Vascular, Urology and Other Applications (Includes Breast Imaging, Hepatology, Anesthesiology, and Emergency Care). The trolley/cart-based ultrasound devices segment is expected to account for the largest share of the North America ultrasound market in 2015; whereas, the compact/handheld ultrasound devices segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Cardiology application is expected to be the fastest growing segment during forecast period owing to rising incidence of cardiac diseases across the globe.Geographically, North America market for Ultrasound devices is segmented into U.S.A and Canada. U.S.A holds the largest share. Well-established healthcare infrastructure and escalating adoption of home healthcare and remote patient monitoring are the prime factors pushing the growth of the market in North America. The high adoption rate of advanced technology in the region is augmenting the demand for miniaturized user-friendly devices.Request sample: http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/north-america-ultrasound-devices-market-576/request-sample General Electric Company (U.S.), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Toshiba Corporation (Japan), Siemens AG (Germany), Hitachi Ltd. (Japan), Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (South Korea), FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation (Japan), Esaote S.p.A. (Italy), Mindray Medical International Ltd. (China), and Analogic Corporation (U.S.) are some of the key players in the North America ultrasound market.About Market Data Forecast:The publisher of this report is Market Data Forecast whose forte lies in Market research and Business Intelligence. Handling both individual and corporate clients across multiple business domains they offer syndicated/customized research to suit the clients research objective. Their research reports section offers a wide variety of market studies ranging from all-encompassing comprehensive market studies to product specific niche markets covering North America among other regions of the global market as well. For more info kindly visit, www.marketdataforecast.com Contact:Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@ marketdataforecast.com Visit MarketDataForecast Blog @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/ View latest Press Releases of MDF @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/press-releases PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 23:05:01 ATLANTA - October 17, 2017 - Piedmont Office Realty Trust (NYSE: PDM) announced today that it secured approximately 450,000 square feet of total leasing in the third quarter of 2017. It also completed two (2) disposition transactions during the quarter, including one of its largest properties, Two Independence Square, located at 300 E Street, S.W. in Washington D.C. Significant leasing highlights for transactions of 10,000 square feet or more signed during the quarter included: Detroit, MI - FCA US LLC has renewed its lease at the 210,000 square foot building at 1075 West Entrance in Auburn Hills, Michigan through 2024. The building is 100% leased to FCA US. Orlando, FL - Piedmont completed two (2) new lease transactions for vacant space in the Orlando market in the third quarter: WithumSmith+Brown PC signed a 19,530 square foot, 12-year new lease through 2030 at SunTrust Center, located at 200-250 South Orange Avenue in downtown Orlando, FL. Robinhood Markets, Inc. signed a 14,472 square foot, 7+ year new lease through 2025 at 500 TownPark, located at 500 Colonial Center Parkway in Lake Mary, FL. Also in Florida, the law firm of Phelan Hallinan Diamond & Jones completed an 18,571 square foot, 10+ year new lease through 2028 for vacant space at 2001 NW 64th Street in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Washington, D.C. -A business analytics software company signed a 14,538 square foot, 10+ year expansion through 2028 at 4250 North Fairfax Drive in Arlington, VA. In total, the firm now leases just over 100,000 square feet at the building. Also in the Washington, D.C. area, Federal Advisory Partners completed an 11,541 square foot, 11+ year new lease renewal through 2029 at Piedmont's 3100 Clarendon Boulevard property in the Arlington sub-market. "Our third quarter leasing results reflect steady activity, highlighted by a large lease renewal with a valued international automobile manufacturing tenant," said C.A. "Bo" Reddic, IV, Executive Vice-President of Real Estate Operations for Piedmont. "Our overall leasing activity is expected to improve over the next several quarters," added Reddic. As previously announced, Piedmont closed on the sale of Two Independence Square, located at 300 E Street, S.W. in Washington D.C. in July. The building is 100% leased and has served as the headquarters for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) since its construction in 2002. Hana Asset Management (advised by Ocean West Capital Partners) purchased the 605,897 square foot, 9-story office building for approximately $360 million. "We are very pleased to have completed the sale of the NASA headquarters building in Washington, D.C.," said Brent Smith, Chief Investment Officer for Piedmont. "The disposition allowed us to pare our exposure to the Southwest submarket in Washington, reduce our total market exposure to Washington, as well as strengthen our balance sheet through the reduction of outstanding debt," concluded Smith. Additionally, Piedmont completed the sale of its 8560 Upland Drive property in Englewood, CO. Hendricks Commercial Properties purchased the 100% leased, 148,570 square foot property for $17.6 million. The sale marks Piedmont's exit from the Denver office market. About Piedmont Office Realty Trust: Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: PDM) is an owner, manager, developer, and operator of high-quality, Class A office properties in select submarkets located primarily within eight major Eastern U.S. office markets. Its geographically-diversified, over $5 billion portfolio is comprised of approximately 19 million square feet. The Company is a fully-integrated, self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT) with local management offices in each of its major markets and is investment-grade rated by Standard & Poor's (BBB) and Moody's (Baa2). For more information, see www.piedmontreit.com. Contact: Kerry Hughes Company: Piedmont Office Realty Trust Phone: 1 770 418 8800 Email: investor.relations@Piedmontreit.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: Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. via Globenewswire PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 11:32:01 Powerstar LITE Undergoes Successful Laboratory Testing Note to editors, for further information please contact: Alf Lombardi at Shrewdd Marketing Email: alflombardi@shrewdd.com Telephone: +44 1422 363424 Mobile: +44 (0) 7879 634864 or Jack Eustace at Shrewdd Marketing Email: jackeustace@shrewdd.com Telephone: +44 1422 363424 Powerstar, the market-leading energy storage and voltage optimisation brand, is pleased to announce the Powerstar LITE voltage optimisation system has been successfully tested under laboratory conditions by the Energy Efficiency Consultancy Limited (EECO2), for the pharmaceutical industry. Conducted by EECO2 - the leading international provider of researched, tested and proven engineering efficiency solutions for the pharmaceutical, biotech and other high-tech industries - the recent study highlights that the Powerstar solution delivers tangible savings on new plant equipment thanks to the patented design. The results highlighted that energy efficiency savings accounted for approximately 19 to 20 per cent of the total savings achieved, with the negative power (back EMF), generating four times this amount - the equivalent of 80 to 81 per cent of the total savings achieved. Given continuing advancements to increase the performance and efficiency of electrical equipment, the results are impressive, particularly as the pharmaceutical industry is renowned the world over for using the most up-to-date equipment. What is also particularly interesting is the tests demonstrate that the largest savings are achieved by Powerstars patented design. Whilst similar in principle and application to other voltage optimisation systems, the clever design delivers additional savings. In essence, any excess voltage above the set-point is subtracted from the input voltage, resulting in the generation of negative power (back EMF), which flows towards the supply and is subtracted from the incoming power. The reduction of power consumed is seen in actual kWh savings. Dr. Alex Mardapittas, chief executive officer for Powerstar, said: This test, alongside the recently completed test by the American Electrical Power (AEP) at the world-renowned Dolan research centre, highlight the additional benefits of installing a Powerstar voltage optimisation solution. Dr. Mardapittas added: As a long-standing market leader in voltage optimisation technology, we are happy to have independent reports commissioned, as they further underpin not only the additional benefits of our solutions, but also our knowledge and understanding of the market. It is possible for sites that experience overvoltage, which most do, to generate energy savings by using bespoke engineered voltage optimisation solutions. For more information, or to download the report, please visit http://powerstar.com/blog/powerstar-lite-undergoes. -Ends- View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/201710170051 PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 13:32:01 Narrated presentation of results available on ProMIS website TORONTO and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of precision treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, today announced that its lead product candidate for Alzheimer's disease, PMN310, showed the desired binding profile of selectively targeting amyloid beta oligomers in a preclinical study directly comparing PMN310 to other amyloid beta-directed antibodies for Alzheimer's disease (AD). A narrated presentation of these results is available on the ProMIS Neurosciences website at: http://bit.ly/2gp8S4t Commenting on these results, ProMIS President and CEO, Elliot Goldstein, MD, stated: "We are pleased to confirm the selective binding of PMN310 to amyloid beta oligomers, a root cause of Alzheimer's disease. Results of prior clinical studies with other amyloid beta antibody therapeutics clearly showed that antibodies targeting amyloid beta monomer have consistently been ineffective, while those targeting amyloid beta fibrils, the main component of plaque, are associated with a dose limiting toxicity of brain swelling. Taken together, results of prior clinical trials indicate the best in class target product profile is selective binding of toxic amyloid beta oligomers." The binding profile of PMN310 was compared to that of other candidate antibody therapeutics for AD in a preclinical study using the "dot blot" technique. Results of the study showed that PMN310 selectively binds amyloid beta oligomers (AbetaO), with virtually no binding to the other forms of amyloid beta. By comparison, solanezumab (Eli Lilly) showed binding mainly to Abeta monomers; bapineuzumab (Johnson & Johnson/Pfizer, discontinued) showed binding to all forms of Abeta (monomers, fibrils, oligomers); and aducanumab (Biogen) showed preferential binding to fibrils and oligomers. Dot blotting is a method of applying (dotting) proteins, such as Abeta monomers, fibrils and oligomers, directly onto a membrane or other support. Samples of the antibody to be evaluated are then applied and the binding pattern to the various forms of amyloid beta can be observed. About ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. ProMIS Neurosciences is a Toronto Stock Exchange listed biotech company (trading symbol: PMN.TO), headquartered in Toronto, Ontario with offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Company's mission is to discover and develop precision medicine therapeutics for effective treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer's disease and ALS. ProMIS Neurosciences' proprietary target discovery engine is based on the use of two, complementary techniques. The Company applies its thermodynamic, computational discovery platform-ProMIS(TM) and Collective Coordinates - to predict novel targets known as Disease Specific Epitopes (DSEs) on the molecular surface of misfolded proteins. Using this unique "precision medicine" approach, ProMIS Neurosciences is developing novel antibody therapeutics and specific companion diagnostics for Alzheimer's disease and ALS. The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This information release may contain certain forward-looking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For further information please consult the Company's website at: www.promisneurosciences.com Follow us on Twitter Like us on LinkedIn For media inquiries, please contact: Scott Santiamo RussoPartners/LLC Scott.Santiamo@russopartnersllc.com Tel. 718 344-5843 David Schull RussoPartners/LLC David.Schull@russopartnersllc.com Tel. 858 717-2310 For Investor Relations please contact: Alpine Equity Advisors Nicholas Rigopulos, President nick@alpineequityadv.com Tel. 617 901-0785 Dr. Elliot Goldstein President and Chief Executive Officer, ProMIS Neurosciences Inc. Tel. 415 341-5783 Elliot.goldstein@promisneurosciences.com PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:03:01 Yara International ASA third quarter 2017 results will be released on Thursday 19 October 2017. The results will be available at www.yara.com from 08:00 CEST. The results will be presented at 09:30 CEST by President and CEO Svein Tore Holsether and CFO Torgeir Kvidal at Yara headquarters in Drammensveien 131, Oslo. The presentation will be held in English, and will be webcast at www.yara.com. If you would like to attend the presentation in Oslo, please confirm with an e-mail to ir@yara.com by 18 October 2017. There will also be a conference call at 14:00 CEST the same day with an opportunity to ask questions to Yara's management. Please use this link for online registration for the conference call: http://emea.directeventreg.com/registration/89945815 1. Participants must register in advance of the conference using the link provided. Upon registering, each participant will be provided with Participant Dial In Numbers, Direct Event Passcode and unique Registrant ID. 2. Call reminders will also be sent to registered participants via email the day prior to the event. 3. In the 10 minutes prior to call start time, Participants will need to use the conference access information provided in the email received at the point of registering. Note: Due to regional restrictions some participants may receive Operator assistance when joining this conference call and will not be automatically connected. A replay of the conference call will be available from 19 October 17:00 until 2 December 17:00 CET. Please use the Dial-in Numbers listed below and Conference ID 89945815: Norway: 80016534 UK FreeCall: 08009531533 USA: 1(866)247 4222 International: 44(0)1452 55 0000 Subscribe for Yara press releases: http://www.yara.com/media/press_releases/newsletter/index.aspx Unsubscribe from Yara press releases: http://www.yara.com/media/press_releases/newsletter/unsubscribe.aspx Please note that Yara will also present at several roadshows and conferences; these are posted on our financial calendar: http://www.yara.com/investor_relations/financial_calendar/index.aspx Yours faithfully for Yara International ASA Thor Giver Head of Investor Relations About Yara Yara's knowledge, products and solutions grow farmers', distributors' and industrial customers' businesses profitably and responsibly, while protecting the earth's resources, food and environment. Our fertilizers, crop nutrition programs and technologies increase yields, improve product quality and reduce the environmental impact of agricultural practices. Our industrial and environmental solutions improve air quality by reducing emissions from industry and transportation, and serve as key ingredients in the production of a wide range of goods. We foster a culture that promotes the safety of our employees, contractors and societies. Founded in 1905 to solve emerging famine in Europe, today Yara has a worldwide presence, with close to 15,000 employees and sales to about 160 countries. www.yara.com This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. 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: Yara International ASA via Globenewswire For Julie Henline, being a change agent is inexorably linked to her ability to be curious. I had the good fortune of landing with an organization early on whose guiding principles center around empowerment, curiosity, growth and collaboration, Henline, client relationship director at Gensler, said. In 17 years, Ive had countless roles within the organization most of which have been self-selected by myself and my incessantly curious personality. Finding her niche, or rather niches, in a global design firm, one that focuses on the full cycle of build environments, requires the ability to listen. Making sure the voice of the client is in everything we do, she said. It was listening to her own inner voice that got her where she is, which started when she earned a degree in industrial organizational psychology from Minnesota State University at Mankato. Nobody knew what that was, Henline said. I call it the philosophy of work. And, judging from her ambitious resume, Henline has mastered the sometimes slippery slope of professional, intelligent curiosity. The answer, at least in large part, seems to be the ability of bringing the right people together to do great work. Julies strength in bringing together people through strategic planning is what makes her a Rising Star in our community, said Robin Moses, executive director of Downtown Mainstreet Inc. and one of two who nominated her for Rising Stars Under 40. Joan Meyers, who also sent in a nomination, said: I could nominate Julie Henline as a Rising Star with just four words: Julie gets it done. Moses had plenty of praise. Julie is an active member of Downtown Mainstreet Inc., starting out as a member of our design committee, Moses said. She rose to lead that committee as chair and is currently a member of our board of directors. This year, Julie will be named our volunteer of the year at our annual awards meeting. As the chair of our design committee, Julie has led our organization in new initiatives. The development of the Elevate Facade grant program to award incentive grants to properties to improve and restore their buildings to their historical integrity, a Facade Squad to identify buildings within the downtown district that need attention, and initiatives to support the physical improvement of our downtown environment. In addition, Julie is a member of our Downtown Parking Task Force and addresses all challenges with a strategic and positive approach. Henline has also led a presentation on Raising the Bar on Design at DMIs 2016 Summer Roundtable, the 7 Rivers Alliance Trends in Urban Planning and Development event, and is a member of the city of La Crosses Transportation Demand Planning subcommittee. She brought together the La Crosse health community for the Shaping Healthy Communities Think Tank, as well. Shes also been appointed to the North Central Region Advance Committee, and led Gensler in location strategy, due diligence, negotiations and design strategy for its new downtown offices in Belle Square. Its only a taste of her long list of accomplishments. Julie really shines at complex, collaborative big picture projects, Meyers said. One of the most visible examples of this was the rebranding of our core business offering, Genslers Workplace Information Solutions Platform. With an eye on industry trends and our evolving market space, Julies strategic assessment and advocacy was a driving force behind our new branding initiative. She pulled together the right team, proposed the right process, took all the right steps to ensure a successful launch. Rebranding isnt an overnight process, but Julie got it done. Reflecting on what makes her most proud, Henline highlighted her efforts at Gensler, but she also looked closer to home. My kids, Henline said. They are smart and turning out to be thoughtful, kind and helpful individuals, despite me being a working, traveling mom. PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 10:55:58 Press Information Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 619 Words Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Advanced renal cell carcinoma is associated with a type of kidney cancer that appears in the covering of the proximal complex tubule. The convoluted tubule is a very small part of tubes in the kidney that helps in transportation of unwanted particles from the blood to the urine. Advanced renal cell carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults that represents nearly 2-3% of all cancer cases in adults.The disorder is asymptomatic in advanced renal cell carcinoma at initial stages that results with people often in the advanced stages of the disease by the time it is discovered. The initial symptoms of renal cell carcinoma are a general feeling of being unwell, hypertension, flank pain, weight loss, fever, blood in the urine, night sweats, and a mass in the abdomen. Management of renal cell carcinoma has seen significant development in the past few years, and new approaches are being established. Advanced renal cell carcinoma is a disease that normally cannot be treated by general therapy and is challenging to treat. Surgical removal of one or both kidneys should be considered in patients who suffer from metastatic disease before systemic therapy.Request for Report TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/13777 On the basis of therapy used in advanced renal cell carcinoma treatment, the market is segmented into radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and investigational therapies. Radiation therapy might not be considered as a primary form of therapy; it is used to treat kidney cancer that has metastasized to the spine, brain or bone. There are several different types of radiation therapy like external beam radiation and radiosurgery. Chemotherapy mechanism is based on the same principle as radiation therapy except that chemicals are used to slow their growth or destroy cancerous cells. The definite type of chemotherapy depends on the site of primary cancer development, and physical condition of the patient, and type and grade of the tumor. Hormone therapy is a form of chemotherapy in which synthetic and natural hormones are used in place of cytotoxic medicines. There are normally fewer side effects from hormone therapy. Investigational therapies are new therapies that are used in cancer treatment, and there are either vaccine-based therapy or stem cell therapies.On the basis of geography, advanced renal cell carcinoma market is segmented into five key regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. North America is dominating the market in advanced renal cell carcinoma therapeutics, owing to factors such as rising awareness towards innovative drug therapies and an increasing geriatric population. Followed by North America, the pattern of geriatric population and awareness related to innovative drugs is in Europe and Asia Pacific regions. Factors such as lack of adoption and lack of facilities for disease diagnosis and treatment may hamper the revenue generation in advanced renal cell carcinoma market in lesser developed economies. Japan will have a consistent rise owing to the stability amongst combinational therapies acceptance and increasing disease prevalence due to changes in routine. There is an opportunity for players in advanced renal cell carcinoma therapeutics market in the Middle East and Africa region. Increasing expenditure by developed countries on healthcare will drive the advanced renal cell carcinoma therapeutics market.Request for Report Sample @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/13777 Some of the major key players in advanced renal cell carcinoma therapeutics market are Acceleron Pharma, Argos Therapeutics, AVEO Pharmaceuticals Inc., Bayer AG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Chugai Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Eisai Co., Ltd., Exelixi, Inc. Genentech, Immatics Biotechnologies GmbH, Merck & Co. Inc, Novartis AG, Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Pfizer, Rexahn Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. The increasing competition among key players will drive the market for advanced renal cell carcinoma in the forecast period. MEA Hydroponics Market PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 08:10:27 Press Information Market Data Forecast 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India. Mr. Abhishek Shukla Sales Manager (International Business Development) Direct Line: +1-888-702-9626; Mobile: +91 998 555 email http://www.marketdataforecast.com # 625 Words 2nd Floor, Lakeview Plaza, Kavuri Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500033, India.Sales Manager (International Business Development)Direct Line: +1-888-702-9626; Mobile: +91 998 555 According to the report Middle East and Africa Hydroponics Market by Equipment (HVAC, LED Grow Light, Communication Technology, Irrigation Systems, Material Handling, Control Systems & others), by Type (Aggregate (Closed Systems (The Water Culture System, The EBB and Flow System, Drip Systems, and The Wick System), Open Systems) & Liquid (Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), Floating Hydroponics, and Aeroponics)), by Crop Type (Tomato, Lettuce & Leafy Vegetables, Cucumber, Pepper & Strawberry), & by Input Type (Nutrients, Growth Medium), and by Region Industry Analysis, Share, Size, Growth, Trends, and Forecasts (2016-2021) published by Market Data Forecast, the Middle East and Africa Hydroponics market is estimated to reach USD 61.3 million by 2021 from a market value of USD 27.6 million in 2016 at a CAGR of 15.5%.Browse details of 190 pages research report on Middle East and Africa Hydroponics Market @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/middle-east-and-africa-hydroponics-market-2121/ Hydroponics is a soilless cultivating technique used to create high return crops. It is a part of hydroculture, which utilizes mineral arrangements and supplements to develop different plants. Hydroponics utilizes two fundamental mediums to develop crops and they are selection culture and strong medium culture. This strategy is a compelling substitute, which defeats the defects of typical agribusiness method to a superior degree.One of the important drivers is that hydroponics gives higher yield compared with conventional agricultural techniques. It additionally gives farmers the capacity to develop crops in regions that can't support crops in soil. Moreover, hydroponics removes the use of counterfeit maturing operators and pesticides, which helps in making nutritiously superior vegetable items. Lack of awareness about the hydroponic agriculture system and high investment are some of the factors restraining the market growth to an extent.Middle East and Africa Hydroponics Market is segmented based on Equipment, Type, Crop Type and Input Type. Based on Equipment, market is segmented into HVAC, LED Grow Light, Communication Technology, Irrigation Systems, Material Handling, and Control Systems. Based on Type, market is segmented into Aggregate & Liquid. Based on Crop Type, market is further segmented into Tomato, Lettuce & Leafy Vegetables, Cucumber, Pepper & Strawberry. Based on Input type, market is further segmented into Nutrients, Growth Medium. On the basis of Aggregate hydroponics systems, market is further segmented into Closed Systems, Open Systems.Avail Sample Market Brochure of the report for more information, Get a Copy @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/middle-east-and-africa-hydroponics-market-2121/request-sample Based on Liquid Hydroponic systems, market is segmented into Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), Floating Hydroponics, and Aeroponics. On the basis of Closed systems, market is further segmented into The Water Culture System, The EBB and Flow System, Drip Systems, and The Wick System. HVAC has the largest market share, followed by LED grow lights, in 2014. HVAC is dominating the market as heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning are the major elements required to create a controlled environment for hydroponic cultivation.Geographically, market is further segmented into Middle East and Africa. Middle East and Africa has an untapped market and key players are slowly expanding to this region which is the main reason for the growth of market in this region.Major Players dominating the market are Argus Control Systems, Koninklijke Philips NV, Greentech Agro LLC, Logiqs B.V., and Lumigrow, Inc.Make an Inquiry @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/middle-east-and-africa-hydroponics-market-2121/inquire 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, we cater to the needs of both individual and corporate clients. Our analyst team comprises expert professionals in market research, who with their collective knowledge and skillset dedicatedly serve clients from various industries and regions.Media Contact:Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626; Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@ marketdataforecast.com Visit MarketDataForecast Blog @ http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/ PR-Inside.com: 2017-10-17 17:47:02 Following the compulsory acquisition of the remaining shares in Weifa ASA that was effected on 12 October 2017, an extraordinary general meeting was held on 17 October 2017 in Weifa ASA. Please find attached the minutes from the extraordinary general meeting. For further information, please contact: Simen Nyberg-Hansen CFO of Weifa ASA +47 9820 6355 simen.nyberg-hansen@weifa.no 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: Weifa ASA via Globenewswire In advance of the recently concluded Women, Peace and Security conference in Abuja, this reporter met with the Deputy Minister of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Laila Bokhari, to speak about her work addressing violent extremism, especially the impact and value of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 which focuses on women in conflict. Collaboratively organised by UN Women, the Nigerian Ministry of Women Affairs and the Norwegian Embassy, the conference was an opportunity for transnational discussion on issues of conflict, insecurity, womens empowerment, the insurgency in the North-east, and the expanding public role of women in reconciliation and conflict prevention efforts in Nigeria. When [the UNSCR] 1325 was adopted at the Security Council in October 2000, there was a realisation that [women in conflict] was an issue that needed to be addressed both multilaterally and nationally, Ms. Bokhari said. Since then, several countries have taken on board the policies set forth in the document, and Nigeria has made an impressive effort to domesticate the resolution. In recognition of the importance of UNSCR 1325, Nigeria has created not one, but two National Action Plans geared towards reducing womens vulnerability in conflict, and strengthening women-led peace advocacy. The overrepresentation of women and children among those traumatised and displaced by the conflict in the North-east necessitated a robust framework for proposed peace processes, and the Nigerian policy response has been encouraging. The National Action Plan (NAP 2017 2019), launched in May 2017, was created to address gaps in the original domestication plan released in 2013. The updated NAP tackles specific problems that arose post-2012 from the spread of the Boko Haram insurgency which, besides claiming several thousand lives and subjecting thousands more to unprecedented levels of sexualised violence, has also precipitated a humanitarian crisis in which millions are at risk of acute hunger, including 1.4 million children. The responsiveness of the Ministry of Women Affairs to the needs that have emerged in the North-east reflects the commitment of the Nigerian government to achieving a sustainable peace, Ms. Bokhari said. Nigeria has created an opportunity for itself to join countries like Colombia and the Philippines as one of the success stories of this process. Its not just big words, and we are really encouraged by this. Undoubtedly, the road to designing and subsequently implementing a truly inclusive peace process for North-eastern Nigeria will be arduous, due not only to the many factors that set women at a disadvantage in the region. Issues like religious conservatism and pervasive sexism will mean that women may have significant difficulty getting their voices heard; the likelihood of their contributions being erased or dismissed is high in the absence of intentional inclusion from the grassroots to the policy-making table. This is why we believe religious leaders are crucial to inclusive peace processes, Ms. Bokhari asserts. The authority of religious leaders in their communities allows them to do valuable work on the front lines of religious extremism. The global network of religious leaders working with 1325 has been a valuable tool for getting the voices of women heard more. Besides cultural conservatism, the stigma attached to having been subjected to sexual violence by insurgents is another problem. Surviving sexual violence can lead to almost total social exclusion for women who would otherwise be able to provide valuable insights into sustainable peace processes. This can represent a real loss for society at large, which is why robust psychosocial services for victims and survivors as set out in the NAP are necessary. Even victims can be made into positive actors if the right support system is in place, Deputy Minister Bokhari said. The National Action Plan provides a means to address the de-radicalisation, demobilisation and reintegration of negative actors in the insurgency, many of whom also happen to be women. As has become clearer in recent times, the role of women in an insurgency is more complex than mere victimhood. Recognising womens agency allows for a realistic view of the landscape in conflict situations and creates a properly informed setting for working towards progress on the ground. Womens role in violent extremism is being examined in much greater detail due to the framework, Ms. Bokhari said, both as actors within extremist movements and as agents of reconciliation post-conflict or even while conflicts are ongoing. Theres still a long way to go in including women, as many existing and active women-led initiatives are still going unseen or unacknowledged. Still, political will is a crucial ingredient in recognising and scaling up the effectiveness of reconciliation efforts by women. Girls education is also a vital feature of the framework. During her visit to the country in July, Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai stated that Nigeria has the highest number of out of school girls in the world, and UN statistics reveal that Nigeria indeed has the highest number of girls aged 6 to 11 out of school. We know that girls very often drop out or are not prioritised, so we have a program with UNICEF to deliver education to girls and women who have come out of captivity, and also to areas that are underserved. Education is an important tool to enable women and girls gain power to become positive actors in their communities. Circling back to subject of the conference, during which she met with several key actors in the Nigerian political space including First Lady Aisha Buhari, Ms. Bokhari once again commended the Nigerian government for its efforts and urged local peace movements and women activists to key in to the work being done. In the presence of political will, it is important for women and civil society organisations working to mitigate conflict to also reach out to policymakers and government officials. Once there is the recognition that womens voices are valuable, it makes it easier for inclusive peace processes to be established, she said. In closing, Ms. Bokhari mentioned that the easy way out would be to create peace accords that only reflect the needs and desires of small segments of the population. She however reiterated that women being at the table during peace negotiations invariably leads to longer lasting and more sustainable recovery from conflict. The Women, Peace and Security framework is about more than just conflict. In Norway, we use it to think about how we can include more women in our security forces. 1325 encourages us to strive for inclusion in every aspect of society, because the impacts of all policy positions are felt by every member of society, whether or not they are represented at the policymaking table. So why lose out on 50 per cent of the voices you have? Inclusion is the smart thing to pursue. Share this: Twitter Facebook The leader of Britains main opposition Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, and other politicians could lose their seats if proposals to cut the cost of politics go ahead, a report suggested on Tuesday. Under former Prime Minister David Cameron, the governing Conservative Party pledged to reduce the number of lawmakers from 650 to 600 in order to save cost. The Independent Boundary Commission has made proposals to make sure most electoral districts in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are roughly equal in the number of voters, meaning certain seats, like Mr. Corbyns, are set to be abolished. But it is not clear whether parliament will back the plan, which is not due to take effect until 2022. Since losing the Conservatives parliamentary majority at an election in June, Prime Minister Theresa May is dependent on the support of a small Northern Irish party, the Democratic Unionist Party, which has opposed any changes in earlier votes. Labour has also said it would vote against the measures, accusing the Conservatives of using the review to pursue their own political advantage. The Daily Telegraph newspaper said if the changes had been in place before the June election, Mays Conservatives would have won a majority. (Reuters/NAN) Human Rights Watch, Britain and the United States have criticised the election of the Democratic Republic of Congo to the UN Human Rights Council, UNHRC, for a three-year term. Congo was on Monday elected by the UN General Assembly in New York to the UNHRC in Geneva alongside 14 other countries for the 2018 to 2020 term. Although Congo was elected uncontested to the 47-member Geneva-based council, it still needed majority support. The country, beset by renewed political and militia violence since President Joseph Kabila refused to step down in December, won 151 votes. British UN Ambassador Matthew Rycroft posted on Twitter: political repression, civilian attacks, mass graves. What happened in DRC last year makes their election to the Human Rights council entirely disappointing. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, who has called for the Human Rights Council votes to be competitive, said Congos election harmed the credibility of the body. Countries that aggressively violate human rights at home should not be in a position to guard the human rights of others, Ms. Haley said in a statement. The United States is reviewing its membership in the council. It is in the first year of a second term, but U.S. President Donald Trumps administration has called for reforms to eliminate what it called its chronic anti-Israel bias. Angola, Senegal, Slovakia, Ukraine, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Australia and Spain were also elected to the body on Monday, while Nigeria and Qatar won second terms. Their terms start on January 1, 2018. To ensure geographical representation, states are nominated in five regional categories. Four slates were uncontested, while there were five candidates for four Asia Pacific seats in which Malaysia lost. Council members cannot serve more than two consecutive terms. The council is able to rebuke governments it deems as violating human rights and to order investigations. Human Rights Watch called for elections to be competitive. The Democratic Republic of Congos election to the Human Rights Council is a slap in the face to the many victims of the Congolese governments grave abuses across the country, said Louis Charbonneau, UN director at Human Rights Watch. The violence in eastern and central Congo has displaced over 1.5 million in the past year and revived fears of civil war in a country where conflicts from 1996 to 2003 resulted in millions of deaths and spawned dozens of armed groups that prey on local populations and exploit natural resources. (Reuters/NAN) Somalia is in desperate need for blood donations for survivors of a truck bombing in the capital Mogadishu, Information Minister Abdirahman Osman has said. The bombing on Saturday killed more than 300 people and injured at least 400 others. Officials said it bore the hallmarks of the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab group, but they have not claimed responsibility. Osman said Somalia does not have a blood bank and that the limitations of its health care system was impeding the medical response. Countries including Turkey and Qatar are providing medical assistance. We are requesting blood, we are requesting assistance for verifying the dead in order for their relatives to know, Osman told Reuters by phone from Mogadishu. Somalia has been mired in conflict since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew a dictator then turned on each other. One of the poorest countries in Africa, it faces severe food insecurity and relies on foreign donors to support its institutions and basic services. Osman said the bodies of more than 100 people buried on Monday were blown beyond recognition, and that he hoped other bodies could still be identified. Turkish doctors, mainly surgeons and specialists in spine injuries, arrived along with Turkeys health minister on Monday. They are treating people in hospitals in Mogadishu, the minister said. Turkey evacuated 35 critically wounded Somalis to Ankara by plane on Monday, the countrys deputy prime minister Recep Akdag told reporters upon returning from Somalia. An increasingly close ally of Somalia, Turkey opened a 50 million dollars military base in the capital in September. The minister said medicine from neighbouring nations Djibouti and Kenya arrived by plane on Tuesday and air ambulance was en route from the Gulf state of Qatar. Qatar would be evacuating 25 more injured people to a hospital in Sudan.(Reuters/NAN) The Zimbabwean Electoral Commission (ZEC) on Tuesday said, so far, 485,827 people had been registered to vote in the 2018 general elections since Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) started a month ago. ZEC chief elections officer, Constance Chigwamba, was quoted by the state broadcaster ZBC as saying that the figure, however, excludes submissions from 610 out of the 2,591 voter registration centers as at October 15. ZEC is targeting to register seven million voters in the 2018 polls, up from 6.8 million in the 2013 elections. Mr. Chigwamba said the 610 centres could not submit their figures by Oct. 15 due to connectivity and communication challenges. She said some of the registration officials have to drive long distances to get to places that have networks or fixed mobile phones to convey their statistics. Voter registration at static district centers began on Sept. 18 while the national mobile blitz commenced on October 10. A total of 2, 697 BVR kits have been deployed for the exercise. However, political parties have expressed concern at the slow pace of the registration exercise. Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, 93, will seek re-election in next years polls after his party endorsed him as its presidential candidate. (Xinhua/NAN) An exhibition marking the 100th anniversary of the Russian Revolution opened at a leading Berlin museum on Tuesday. Berlins Deutsches Historisches Museum has assembled over 500 items from across Europe, including revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenins death mask, to tell the story of the changes unleashed by the dramatic events of 1917. The exhibition successfully forms an arc stretching from the revolutionary year 1917 up to the present. Also to bring to mind the epochal and literally world-changing changes that the Russian revolution brought about, German Culture Minister Monika Grutters said at the opening. Other exhibits include paintings, posters, porcelain, statues and uniforms from the era. After sweeping away an unsteady provisional government forged following the collapse of the autocratic Tsarist regime, the 1917 revolution paved the way for the formation of the Soviet Union five years later. The exhibition, which opens its doors to the public on Wednesday, also examines the political and social upheaval the revolution triggered across Europe. (dpa/NAN) The Police in Plateau State have confirmed another attack on Rotsu, a settlement near Nkyie-Doghwro, the village attacked in the early hours of Monday. Both communities are in Bassa Local Government Area, which has been under a dusk to dawn curfew since Friday. The attacks occurred despite the curfew. PREMIUM TIMES reported how the Monday attack on Nkyie-Doghwro left 29 people dead with President Muhammadu Buhari condemning the attack and calling for improved security in the state. Before the Nkyie-Doghwro attack, an earlier attack on Saturday on Taegbe, during the curfew, caused the death of at least six people. Rotsu village was attracted last night (Monday), a police spokesperson told journalists on Tuesday. No one was killed, but three houses were burnt. Our men responded promptly and rescue the situation. Terna Tyopev, who spoke at the police headquarters in Jos, the Plateau State capital, also said police officers prevented another attack on an unnamed settlement in Riyom Local Government Area on Monday night through prompt response to a distress call. Mr. Tyopev spoke shortly after the commissioner of police, Adie Undie, accompanied Governor Simon Lalong to the scene on Tuesday. Mr. Tyopev said the commissioner of police has deployed three units of mobile police officers to the troubled areas in Bassa, and has directed the commencement of air surveillance to prevent further loss of lives. He said the commissioner of police has also directed all divisional police officers in the state to be on the alert, and act promptly on any security challenge. He said no arrests have been made yet, but investigations were ongoing. Share this: Twitter Facebook Nathaniel Melby has been around computers from a very early age, so, in a sense, what he does is hard-wired within him. The computer fascinated me, Melby, chief information officer at Dairyland Power Cooperative, said. It was a conceptual puzzle. I was always trying to unlock its secrets. I felt that energy, and there was a way to be involved with it. He learned basic programming at 6 years old, was part of a home that had one of the first computers in his neighborhood, and was the first student in his college dorm to have one, too. His uncles and father, in the early years, worked at ComputerLand, the iconic store. My family was out there evangelizing the technology, Melby said. From bulletin boards to early online games, the computer and its technology were more than a lure for the young mind. It opened access to a bigger, broader world, he said. In a sense, it serves as a broader metaphor for what Melby does at Dairyland, where hes responsible for the vast technological strategies and modernization of information systems at the power cooperative. Its a big job, he said. And one he came well prepared for, as Ben Porath, who nominated Melby for Rising Stars Under 40, noted when he shared his impressive list of accomplishments. After graduating from Logan High School, Melby went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, a Master of Business Administration, with an emphasis in Technology and Training, from UW-Whitewater, and a Ph.D. in Information Systems from Nova Southeastern University, specializing in information security and telecommunications. Hes also completed the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouths Business Engagement for the Security Professional executive program. Melby can also be found in classrooms throughout the region, specifically as an adjunct faculty member in the UW-L Information Systems Department, the Winona State University Management Information Systems and Operations program, and Viterbo Universitys School of Adult Learning/Dahl School of Business. He sees education as a tool to affect change in the world, and he hopes to help his students find their passion in life. Thats what livings all about, he said. Its also about a commitment to where youre living, which is why Melby is a dedicated firefighter. He has been in the fire service since 1997, and fire chief in the town of Campbell since 2009. Before that, he served eight years as assistant chief of training and safety. He has served as president of the La Crosse County Fire Officers Association since 2009 and is vice president of the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association, having served as trustee and second vice president. Melbys also been the chair of the WSFCA Safety Section since 2012, advocating for the safety of firefighters in Wisconsin, and formed the WSFCA Volunteer and Combination Officers Section in 2015. Hes an active instructor in the fire service, and serves as a Wisconsin Technical College System state representative for fire service training. And, hes helped two scouts earn their Eagle Scout rank, and was honored to be recognized as the mentor for one of them. But, hes humble when talking about his accomplishments. Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has advised Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members not to make the mistake of making wrong choice of National Working Committee (NWC) members at the December convention. Mr. Jonathan gave the advice when he received an aspirant for the partys national chairmanship position, Raymond Dokpesi, in his residence in Abuja on Tuesday. He cautioned that the party could not afford to make mistake in choosing its next national chairman and publicity secretary, describing them as very delicate positions. This time around we need a very courageous and vocal person to be the chairman. There are two positions that we must not make mistake on the positions of the national chairman and that of the national publicity secretary, because I have worn the shoes before and I know where it pinches. If we make a mistake as a party and elect wrong chairman and publicity secretary, we are finished, Mr. Jonathan said. He said that PDP at this moment, needed courageous chairman, who in the face of persecution, would remain courageous to protect the partys interest and defend democracy. He said, We need very competent person and a team player, somebody who will not negotiate to get money from the aspirants to make them candidates. If you do that, you have destroyed the party because a party must come up with programmes and policies that will elect the best of the best. If you present the best material, the chances of your wining election are stronger than when you present a wrong material. We need such kind of chairman that will galvanise the national committee and also link up with state committees and do the best for the party. This is key so that by 2019 when we go for the general elections, PDP will have majority in the states and national assemblies and of course, PDP must win the presidency. Mr. Jonathan, who said that the December convention would be keenly contested, urged chairmanship aspirants to see the exercise as a family affair. Whatever comes out, as faithful loyalists of the party, you should accept it. So, whoever is going to contest should have that in mind. Recently, I read that you met with one of the aspirants; that is a good spirit; no victor no vanquished. The winner must be PDP and not an individual. He also corroborated the view of the former military Head of State, Abdulsalam Abubakar, on the need for the PDP to fully assume its role of opposition. According to the former president, PDP must migrate from the ruling party to opposition for the purpose of stabilising the countrys democracy. I am not saying that as an opposition party you must been saying anything you like, no. PDP is a very mature party. We will not go to the gutter and criticise anyhow but all over the world, the opposition party checkmates the ruling party so that things are done properly, so that there will not be impunity. If the opposition party goes to sleep, the ruling party can do anything it likes, he said. He, however, commended the Ahmed Makarfi-led National Caretaker Committee of the party, saying that they had done very well, especially during the period of crisis in the party. Mr. Jonathan prayed for Mr. Dokpesi in his aspiration to become PDP chairman and described him as a member who has done well for the party. He said that Mr. Dokpesi had used his resources to support the party, and has shown so much commitment to the affairs of the party. Earlier, Mr. Dokpesi urged Mr. Jonathan to ensure that the PDP came out of the December convention stronger and united. He commended the former presidents resilience and efforts in ensuring that the partys leadership crisis was resolved. I am very positive that this party must come out of December elective national convention stronger and united to be able to give the needed opposition to the All Progressives Congress (APC). As our leader, you have to look for means to ensure that we come out of the forthcoming convention stronger and united, he said. Mr. Dokpesi also visited a former PDP national women leader and former minister, Inna Ciroma, who is also vying for the post of deputy national chairperson (North) and her husband, Adamu Ciroma. He was also at the home of Patricia Akwashiki, a former senator and minister. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook Nearly 200 public health organisations, labour rights outfits, and other groups have called on the International Labour Organisation, ILO, a United Nations agency, to expel tobacco companies from its membership and live up to its promise of protecting labourers. Mark Hurley, International Director of Tobacco Industry Campaigns at the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said the groups submitted a letter describing how tobacco companies victimise farmers and other workers through practices including unfair pricing strategies, abusive contracts and child labour. Tobacco companies use membership of respected organisations like the ILO to portray themselves as responsible corporate citizens when, in fact, they are the root cause of a tobacco epidemic that is projected to kill one billion people worldwide this century, Mr. Hurley said in a statement on Monday. Tobacco companies continue to aggressively market their deadly products to children and other vulnerable populations around the world, to mislead the public about the health risks of their products and to attack every effort to reduce tobacco use and save lives. Tobacco companies that spread death and disease across the globe should have no place in a UN agency or any responsible organisation. From October 26, the governing body of the ILO will meet in Geneva to decide whether to cast out tobacco companies from its membership. Last month, the United Nations Global Compact, UNGC, the worlds largest corporate sustainability initiative, announced it would bar tobacco companies and any other organisation that derive revenue from the production or manufacturing of tobacco products from the initiative. The UNGC said the decision was to ensure its policies and practices safeguard the integrity and reputation of the United Nations and the value it upholds. Another UN agency, the World Health Organisation, administers an international tobacco control treaty the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, FCTC- which obligates nations to implement proven strategies to reduce tobacco use. The FCTC also states that the tobacco industrys interests are in clear conflict with public health goals. As long as it allows tobacco industry members, the ILO will be out of step with the 181 parties to the FCTC and other UN agencies, Mr. Hurley said. The ILO should join other international organisations and agencies to cut ties with tobacco companies. The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday urged the Federal Government to designate October 17 as World Poverty Day in line with the resolution of the United Nations. This was one of the prayers of the senators in a motion on the importance of the day approved by the UN General Assembly in 1992. The motion was sponsored by Ali Wakili (APC-Bauchi). The lawmakers observed that recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that about 112 million Nigerians live below the poverty line. The Senate also observed that the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty and its antecedents, the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty, are intended to promote dialogue and understanding between people living in poverty. Speaking on the bill, Aidoko Ali, (APC-Kogi) urged the Federal Government to release funds for the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs, especially for areas that concern poverty. Some months ago, the President made commitment that the country will be faithful to implementation of the SDG programme but till today, no fund has been released, he lamented. Also lending his voice, Shehu Sani, (APC-Kaduna) said poverty in Nigeria is man-made and observance of such day with impactful governmental policies will reduce the menace. Nigerias poverty is man-made. Poor people are completely ostracised from governmental policies and programmes, he said. Bringing programmes that will address the problem is the core of setting aside this day. If we dont address this, we risk a serious revolution in the country, he added. Hinged on these, the Senators called on the Federal, State and Local Governments to designate and observe October 17 of every year as World Poverty Day. While urging private organisations and media to step up discourse on the issue, the lawmakers urged the Federal Government to pursue vigorously its social investments programme in line of eradicating poverty and fund necessary SDGs that will eliminate poverty. The Senate also adopted an additional prayer moved by Buka Abba, (APC-Yobe) that government at all levels should declare free and compulsory education. The senators however did not make clarifications on which level of education is to be made free and compulsory. The theme of the 2017 World Poverty Day is: Answering the call of October 17 to end poverty: a path towards peaceful and inclusive societies. The Senate on Tuesday summoned the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Kayode Fayemi, to appear before it over the neglect of communities and victims affected by lead poisoning in Zamfara State. The motion sponsored by Oluremi Tinubu (APC-Lagos) seeks the Ministers brief on framework to ensure the protection of residents of mining communities. In 2014, 38 villages in Zamfara State were reported to have been affected by the effect of artisanal and unwholesome mining. This resulted in blindness, infertility and neurological defects for over 400 children and many others. In reaction, the Federal Government in 2016 approved and released intervention funds for urgent remediation of affected areas. Presenting the motion, Mrs. Tinubu said that only eight out of the 38 affected communities had any remediation. Too many Nigerians are suffering, unable to access effective medical treatment for the resulting ailments, losing loved ones and suffering deformities of varying degrees, she said. She noted that due to paucity of funds, Medecin sans frontier, MSF, and other civil society organisations have pulled out of the area, hence, the need to summon the Minister for situation report. The Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the plenary said the motion was important as the Senators bears the responsibility to protect Nigerians. We are aware that a lot of illegal mining are going on in many areas. It is our responsibility that people in this areas are protected, he submitted. The senators after deliberations resolved to invite the Minister to appear before the plenary to deliver a brief on its mining roadmap, implementation framework and how it intends to ensure protection of residents of mining host communities. No date was set for the appearance. The lawmakers also mandated its committee on Environmental and Solid Minerals to visit affected communities to ascertain level of damage and investigate activities of the Ministry of Environment as it affects the mining sector. The Civil Society Network Against Corruption, CSNAC, has expressed concerns over the silence of the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, to its petition on alleged violation of the human rights of 38 senior officers of the Nigerian Army it said were unlawfully retired over a year ago. In a follow-up petition to NHRC signed by CSNACs chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the coalition of over 150 anti-corruption organizations across Nigeria urged the Commission to immediately call for public hearing on the matter with a view to investigate and construe these allegations in the best interest of justice. According to the coalition, Its over a year, since these 38 retired officers were unjustly punished and all efforts at seeking redress in line with the Nigerian Armys own modus operandi have all so far been frustrated by the leadership of the Military. The group said it wrote the petition after reading a news report in ThisDay newspaper of June 20, 2016 on the compulsory retirement of the officers. It said the report revealed that the officers, including nine Major-Generals, 10 Brigadier-Generals, seven Colonels, 11 Lieutenant-Colonels and one Major were retired by the Nigeria Army Council at a sitting involving the Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan Ali, Chief of Defense Staff, Abayomi Olonisakin and the Chief of Army Staff, Yusuf Buratai. In this report, we were made aware that none of these thirty-eight senior officers were at any point investigated for the infraction, indicted, tried by a court martial or found guilty/convicted of any disciplinary offence or criminal breaches whatsoever in line with Armed Forces extant rules and regulations. These 38 Senior Army Officers have expressed their profound shock upon learning about their unjust, unlawful and baseless compulsory retirement in the media. We are reliably informed that two separate panels were set up, one to examine allegations of electoral malpractices by Nigerian Army personnel and the other to investigate allegations of corruption associated with arms procurement under the office of National Security Adviser. The report further revealed that, 18 out of the 38 Senior Army Officers were never invited to appear before any of the two panels. Eight out of the 38 Senior Army officers appeared as witnesses before the first panel that examined allegations of electoral malpractices by Nigerian Army personnel, while 11 out of the 38 Senior Army Officers also appeared as witnesses before the second panel that investigated allegations of corruption associated with arms procurement under the office of National Security Adviser. It is important to emphasise that, 26 out of these officers went to the panels as witnesses and not as persons of interest with respect to these investigations. CSNAC said further that: Media reports about Army records have severally revealed that some of these unjustly retired officers were in the frontline of North Eastern operations during the election as against the allegations that they participated in election duties. Several others in that same list were on Army posting outside the shores of Nigeria during the period of General elections. As well as during the time the two panels were sitting in Kaduna and Abuja. The right to fair hearing is a universally acclaimed right, and is duly enshrined in the Nigeria Constitution. But, this right has been infringed upon. Despite, an order of mandamus made by the National Industrial Court directed specifically to the Chief of Defence Staff, and requiring Gen. Olonisakin to (as a matter of his duty) transmit the affected officers administrative appeal for redress to Mr. President and to show proof of doing same to the Court Registrar, the Chief of Defense Staff has continued to defy the order duly made by a court of competent jurisdiction in a flagrant show of impunity and disrespect for the rule of law. This clearly shows bad faith and the fact that they, the leadership of the Nigeria Army, have something to hide. It is regrettable to note that the above issue has led to the untimely death of one of the 38 officers, the late Col Baba-Ochankpa. This brave officer died broken hearted. It is very unfortunate that the leadership of the Nigerian Army rather than motivate and inspire our gallant men and women who are serving their fatherland in the most dangerous yet noble ways, chose to exhibit such crass injustice and abuse of powers. The group berated the NHRC over its attitude to the petition. As saddening and disheartening as issues surrounding this gross rights violation is, what is even more perturbing for us is to continue refusal of your Commission to act on this matter even though a petition has been duly submitted. All it takes for injustice and anarchy to reign in any society is for very critical institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission to decide to look the other way or throw its hands helplessly in the air when issues of gross rights violation such as this are taking place. The assumption is that your Commission appears to be intimidated by the involvement of the top echelon of the Nigerian Army. If this is the case, it is most unfortunate and sends ominous signals for the stability of our polity. The National Human Rights Commission is crucial in deepening our democracy and ensuring that the military submit herself to civil authorities. Your Commission should be, and be perceived to be fearless, tenacious and fiercely forthright in the discharge of its mandate. Though the National Assembly has justifiably decided to wade into the matter, we wish to reiterate that your Commission has the mandate to deal with issues like this without fear or favour. The National Human Rights Commission is obligated under national and international statutes to protect human rights of all persons at all times. Expressing its demands, CSNAC said: It is on the basis that we call on the National Human Rights Commission to immediately call for public hearing to shed more light on this matter with a view to investigate and construe these allegations in the best interest of justice. We demand that those who are found to be complicit in this matter be recommended to face punishment to the fullest extent of the law. Consequent upon the above, your Commission should recommend the immediate re-instatement of these 38 senior officers into the Nigerian Army. The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed a motion to sanction agencies, companies and institutions in Nigeria that prohibit their workers from organising labour unions. In the motion sponsored by Shehu Sani (APC- Kaduna Central) on the need to sanction private companies and institutions that disallow workers unionism in their companies, the Senate noted that Nigerian workers were functioning under deteriorating conditions, particularly with the recent downturn in the economy. Mr. Sani said the poor economic condition was being compounded by the policies of some private companies and institutions disallowing labour unionism and related forms of workers association. The intolerance of unionism has become increasingly rife among private companies and institutions in Nigeria, including private universities, in blatant disregard of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Supporting the motion, Joshua Lidani (APC-Gombe South) said an important reason for forming unions in the workplaces is to defend individual workers and curb insecurity and joblessness among other vices. Adopting the motion, the Senate resolved to mandate its Committee on Employment, Labour and Productivity to urgently draw up measures of ensuring compliance with labour unionism in work places. The Senate also urged the Committee to ensure that companies who have proscribed unionism were appropriately sanctioned. A youth group has launched a campaign to mobilise Nigerians against corruption and hold government officials accountable at all levels. The Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth & Advancement, YIAGA, is launching the #BounceCorruption campaign with support from the MacArthur Foundation. As part of the campaign, YIAGA, on Tuesday began a two-day workshop in Lagos for radio journalists tagged, #bouncecorruption radio ambassadors. The workshop drew technocrats, journalists as well as professionals from universities and the media. The project initiators said they aim at building resistance against corruption by exposing corrupt practices and demanding prosecution of indicted persons. Through #BounceCorruption, YIAGA hopes to establish resource platforms for effective anti-corruption campaigns and public outreach. The group said the platforms will promote anti-corruption efforts by other stakeholders fighting against corruption and promoting public accountability. The need for radio journalists to take up the fight against corruption and mobilize Nigerians to grab the bull by the horns in ridding the country of deep seated corruption has been brought to the fore, YIAGA said in a statement. The group said ambassadors and on air personalities, OAPs, with major followers have been selected to pioneer the initiative. The 1st day of the workshop saw Umar Pate, a professor from Bayero University speak on content management and messaging against corruption in Nigeria. Also speaking, the program officer of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption PACAC, Fatima Waziri Azi, gave an overview of the national strategy framework on anti corruption and its levels of implementation. The Director, National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, Isiaka Olarewaju, spoke on the state of corruption in Nigeria and findings of the National corruption survey. Speaking on the workshop, one of the OAPs, Odafe Imogu from Search FM in Niger State, said the quality of interaction is one that would take the fight against corruption to the next level within the shortest possible time given the enthusiasm among participants. The workshop which will end tomorrow with OAP group sessions, discussions and an adoption of a framework for implementing the resolutions and partnerships reached with different media houses. YIAGA is a non -profit, non-governmental organization that promotes democratic governance, human rights and active youth participation in democratic process through research, policy advocacy and capacity development. The Nigerian Senate has urged the federal and state governments to declare a state of emergency in the education sector. The Senate made this call on Tuesday after deliberating on a motion tagged the falling standard of education in Nigeria. The lawmakers noted that the prescribed standards for primary, secondary and tertiary education are not being attained by educators and policymakers as pupils and students do not possess or demonstrate the knowledge and skills expected of them at critical points in their educational career. Muhammad Aliero, PDP-Kebbi Central, who moved the motion explained that the educational standards and quality of education in the country as shown in public examinations are declining. He said the causes of the falling standards and quality of education in the country include poor funding and neglect of the education sector by the federal and state governments that have over the years allowed basic school infrastructure and facilities across the country to deteriorate. The distasteful state of teaching, a profession that has become very unattractive to undergraduate and postgraduate students, which in turn has denied the profession the quality of the teachers and educators it requires for it to deliver the prescribed standards and quality for primary, secondary and tertiary education (is saddening), he said. The Senate urged federal, state and local governments to restore the glory of the teaching profession by improving the status of teachers through capacity building to deliver better quality education. The lawmakers also urged the Nigerian Teachers Registration Council to evolve more vibrant methodologies for delivering on their mandate. Share this: Twitter Facebook The President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Akinwumi Adesina, said that Africa was spending 35 billion dollars annually on food imports. Mr. Adesina said in his Norman Borlaug Lecture delivered at Iowa State University, titled Betting on Africa to Feed the World, on Tuesday in Des Moines, Iowa in the United States. According to him, it is unacceptable by his estimates; if the current trend continues, Africa is estimated to spend 110 billion dollars by 2030 on food imports. He, therefore, called for land tax for unused agricultural land, to provide incentives for faster commercialisation of agriculture and unlocking its potential in Africa. Mr. Adesina said Africa held the key for feeding nine billion people by 2050, adding that more than ever before, the world must help Africa to rapidly modernise its agriculture and unlock its full potential. According to him, the challenge of addressing global food security is the greatest in Africa. He said that close to 300 million were malnourished on the continent due to this challenge. According to him, Africa is the only region of the world where its proportion of the population that is food insecure is on the increase. There is therefore absolutely no reason for Africa to be a food importing region. Africa has huge potential in agriculture, but, as Dr. Borlaug used to say, nobody eats potential. Unlocking that potential, we must start with the Savannah of Africa which covers mind boggling 600 million hectares of which 400 million hectares are cultivable. Africa sits on 65 per cent of the uncultivated arable land left in the world, so what Africa does with agriculture will determine the future of food in the world. African farmers need more than a helping hand. They need a policy lift, Adesina said. The president paid tribute to Dr. Norman Borlaug, whom the lecture series was named after. Mr. Adesina said that Africa was the last frontier for the late Borlaug, the Founder of the World Food Prize who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for a lifetime of work to feed a hungry world. The president said that in spite of the progress globally in food production including Africa, Latin America and Asia, the world still had 700 million people languishing in extreme poverty. This includes 800 million with chronic hunger, two billion people with micronutrient deficiency and 150 million children under five years of age that are suffering from stunting. The challenge of feeding the world is immense, with need for rapid increases in global food, feed and biofuel production to feed a global population of nine billion people by 2050. If Dr. Borlaug alone can feed one billion people, we definitely can feed 800 million people globally and we definitely can feed 300 million Africans, he said. Mr. Adesina said that to transform agriculture, Africa needs to make a decision to develop new agrarian systems, one that combines smallholder farmers with a new dynamic generation of medium and large commercial farmers. He advocated for land tenure systems that made it easier to get access to land and for smallholder farmers and their communities to have secure land rights. The president said that a top priority must be to mechanise agriculture in Africa. According to him, over 1,200 people from more than 65 countries will address cutting edge issues related to global food security and nutrition at the 2017 Borlaug Dialogue International Symposium in October 18-20. NAN reports that the former Nigerias Minister of Agriculture has been nominate to receive the World Food Prize Laureate during the events. (NAN) The Senate has urged the federal government to appoint a separate minister for the Ministry of Power to ensure optimal performance. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that under the present administration, the Ministry of Power is merged with that of Works and Housing. The Senate also urged the government to immediately incorporate Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) for the implementation of alternative energy projects. The projects include the Hydro Power, Solar power and Wind power. It also advised the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing to use gas as the source of energy for the Kaduna project in accordance with the original concept of the project. The call followed Senates resolution on a motion on The Need to establish and delegate Special Purpose Vehicles to execute and Operate Major Power Sector Development Projects. The motion was sponsored by Mustapha Bukar (APC-Katsina). Mr. Bukar noted that the federal government, in 2004, conceived of the idea of an Integrated Power Project which metamorphosed into Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) incorporated in 2005. This was in governments quest to bridge the power gap for sustained economic growth in Nigeria by adding significant new generation capacity to Nigerias electricity supply system. he said. He noted that the National Assembly enacted the Electric Power Sector Reform (EPSR) Act, 2005 on March 11, 2005, which kick-started the process of privatisation of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). This he said was in a bid to develop a Competitive Electricity Market with the establishment of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). He said the function of NERC was to provide for the licensing and regulation of the entire value chain of the Nigerian Electricity Market (NEM). The privatisation became effective on November 1, 2013 when the unbundled Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) was sold and transferred to successful bidders of the 6 Generation Companies (GENCOs) and the 11 Distribution Companies (DISCOs). The ownership and control of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) was retained by the Federal Government for strategic reasons. The lawmaker further said that consequent upon the commencement of the privatisation and establishment of the Nigerian Electricity Market, the role of the Federal Ministry of Power, Works & Housing was restricted. Contributing, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, Eyinnaya Abaribe, said the committee was already acting along its own mandate for oversight. We are working toward ensuring that these concerns that have been raised as a result of this motion were looked into. The Ministry of Power, today, is combined with Works and Housing and the thrust of the ministry is to give quality direction. But what we find is that the ministry continues to appropriate these jobs specifically meant to be done by agencies under it. We are taking measures to see whether we can bring the ministry back to what it ought to be. In his remarks, Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, said every talk about growing the economy would not work unless the power sector was repositioned. We need to create a situation where we have energy sufficiency. As long as the private sector depends on private arrangement for energy requirements, the cost of goods will continue to be high, especially the ones produced here. It is important that we all work toward ensuring power sufficiency in the country and ensure that it is sustained, Mr. Ekweremadu said. (NAN) The Holland Town Board expects its property tax levy will increase by an estimated 3.6 percent next year but not because of higher taxes. New construction is expected to increase revenue to the town by that amount, leaving the towns mill rate unchanged, according to a town official. We have a bigger pool, so we have more to collect from, said town clerk Marilyn Pedretti. Board members were expected to vote to send a draft of the budget to residents for the annual electors meeting during a special town board meeting held Wednesday, after the Coulee Courier deadline. The electors meeting will be held at 7 p.m., Nov. 8. A draft of the budget is available online at townofhollandwi.org. Pedretti stressed that the draft is just that, a draft. These are very tentative numbers, Pedretti said. Things could change. The 2018 levy is currently anticipated to be $486,497, up from $469,555 that was budgeted for 2017. Pedretti wasnt particularly optimistic when discussing the budget, saying that the only good piece of news is an increase in the states general transportation aid payment, going from $2,202 per mile of road to $,2389 per mile of road. Because the town has about 48 miles of road, the town will receive an additional $9,000, an eight percent increase. The expected revenue will go from $106,334 to $115,364. Weve been stale for a while, Pedretti said, pointing out that its been some time since the last increase. But otherwise, the budget includes plenty of increases in expenses, and when it comes to paying for them, board members hands are tied due to state-imposed levy limits. Weve got a levy limit, so our revenues are stuck, Pedretti said. Although the board could have finalized the budget during its regular board meeting last week, they chose to schedule a special meeting to have more time to consider how to fill in some budget numbers, particularly purchases proposed by town crew supervisor Dewaine Clayton. Clayton said a loader that the town bought not quite two years ago has gotten only 24 hours of use, and proposed trading it in for a backhoe which would cost the town about $80,000. We would use that thing a lot in a given year, Clayton said. He added that a backhoe would be useful for ditch cleaning and culvert replacements. The town recently rented a backhoe for those purposes to clean up storm damage caused by the July flooding. Board members discussed renting one again in 2018. Maybe well use one quite a bit, maybe we wont, said board member Jerome Pedretti, pointing out that the crew will use one a lot more some years than in other years. Fire budget The board voted 4-1 to accept the Holmen Area Fire Districts 2018 preliminary budget. The departments budget is funded by the village of Holmen and the towns of Holland and Onalaska. Its proposed operations budget is going from $525,000 in 2017 to $580,000 in 2018. Following an equalized value formula, the increase will amount to a $15,898 increase for the town of Holland, or 12.3 percent. Theres not an item in our budget thats going up this much nothing, said board member Bob Stupi, who was the lone nay on the vote to accept the proposed budget. Why are they special? The village of Holmen would pay an extra $25,343, or an additional 11.7 percent under the proposed budget, while the town of Onalaska would pay an additional $13,759, or 7.7 percent. The proposed budget shows the district would still be operating with a $58,000 deficit. Theyre also operating with a $65,706 deficit in 2017. Besides dealing with an increase in operational expenses and equipment replacement, adding to the expense is the departments plans to hire a new full-time firefighter. However, Stupi pointed out that most of the calls the department receives are medical, not for fires. We need first responders, we dont need more firefighters, Stupi said. But now isnt the time to discuss it. The board also voted to have a defibrillator installed in Holland Town Hall, with the cost to not exceed $1,000. Students of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH, Ogbomosho will return to their classrooms on Monday for the first time in six months. This followed an announcement on Tuesday by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, calling off the protracted strike action involving the teachers and other workers of the university. The students have not resumed academic activities since April when they concluded their 2016/17 first semester examinations. They will now begin the second semester of the session, months after other universities in Nigeria began the 2017/18 academic year. Workers of LAUTECH had gone on strike on June 2 over poor funding by the two owner states of the university, Oyo and Osun. Although the university asked the students to return to school on September 25 after the owner state governments announced that they had resolved the disputes with the workers, the students have not been receiving lectures because the teachers refused to resume. The Dean of Student Affairs of the university, Lukman Jinadu, confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES in a telephone interview that academic activities will resume officially on Monday as the local branch of ASUU called off their strike after a meeting on Tuesday. We are resuming officially on Monday, Mr. Jinadu said. Oyedeji Ahmed, a 500-level student of Agronomy at the university, said the teachers suspended their strike conditionally in the hope that the council and the management will meet the demands of their union. The management has paid their salaries for September and upfront for October and November 2017 but the union is asking for the years the management is owing, he said. We are happy the storm is over, we are resuming lectures by Monday, Mr. Oyedeji said The school had been forced to close down earlier in 2015 just before the students were scheduled to begin their examinations. Subsequently, the two state governments managed to come up with N500 million to settle the workers salaries, thus enabling the students to resume briefly and complete the 2015/2016 first semester in April, 2016. But the money could only cover the workers salaries for two and a half months, following which the workers again downed tools in June. Although it reopened briefly in February, there have been no academic activities. PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that the students appealed to the federal government to take over the school. The alumni association of LAUTECH also initiated a fund raising scheme, #fundlautech, to assist the management of the school in addressing the funding challenges. The aim of the #fundlautech initiative was to raise N1 billion in 90 days. But the student rejected the effort, saying any measure that does not offer a lasting solution to the perennial funding challenge was not acceptable to them. Meanwhile, the Osun State government on Tuesday expressed confidence in the governing council and workers of the institution to bring the situation of the school back to normal. The state government stated this following the payment of three-month salaries to the workers and subsequent suspension of strike by the ASUU of the institution. According to the government, the payment of the three-month salaries was an indication that the council and the two owner state governments, were committed to the smooth running of the university. In a press release by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Adelani Baderinwa, the Osun government said the resumption of LAUTECH workers and academic normalcy were important to the owner governments, as they were concerned about the plight of the students. Mr. Baderinwa said the two owner state governments were concerned about the well-being of the students as well as the progress and development of LAUTECH and the welfare of its workers. Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun and Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi were very sensitive about LAUTECH matter and they have exhibited reasonable and convincing commitment to the welfare of the workers of the institution and the plight of the students, he said. Mr. Baderinwa said Osun government recently released N1 billion while the Oyo government, which initially released N56 million, was perfecting plan to provide addition fund for the university. Notwithstanding pressures from some quarters that Osun government should not commit the state resources to LAUTECH again due to obvious marginalisation of the state in LAUTECH, Governor Aregbesola who is passionate about functional education, a team player and a goal-getter will not cease in funding LAUTECH and will stop at nothing in ensuring that LAUTECH is back on its feet, he said. The basis of agitation of Osun people is that Oyo indigenes in the employment of LAUTECH are about thrice that of Osun while only one faculty in the institution is located in Osun as against the seven faculties located in Oyo despite the equality in funding by the two states. Mr. Baderinwa urged LAUTECH labour unions to continue to cooperate with the council in ensuring that the institution is fully back on track. The United States of America has trained 25 journalists selected from across Nigeria in data journalism to aid their routine work and investigative abilities. The training, which focused on the tools for data journalism in a digital age had Jeffrey Young and Kathleen Struck, both from the Voice of America, VOA, as facilitators. At the two-day training, the Consul-General of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, John Bray, restated his nations commitment to the growth and progress of the Nigerian media. In his remarks, Mr. Bray noted that the United States sees Nigeria as an important nation and would continue to show commitment to improving standards in the Nigerian media. Mr. Young, a Senior Analyst at VOA, Africa Division, encouraged Nigerian journalists to respect the ethics of the profession and also actively use the Freedom of Information Act, FOIA, to gather facts and information that will help statistical reporting. Journalists must also be concerned about digital security and must ensure ethics are followed in their discharge of duties even as risks increase daily for journalists, he said. He also said Nigerian journalists must equip themselves with relevant data journalism knowledge to ensure effectiveness and have an edge in the 21st century investigative journalism. The importance of data journalism cannot be underestimated, while there are challenges daily, it is our duty to live up to these challenges and report. During the training session, Ms. Struck tasked journalists to use the social media to gather information in reporting. Journalists must in the real sense understand the use of social media and utilise it effectively. The world is evolving and investigative journalists must know how to use the social media to the advantage of their work, she said at the training which held in Lagos and ended on Tuesday. The head, public affairs, American Embassy in Lagos, Darcy Zotter, said the U.S. was constantly looking for promising Nigerian journalists to train. You are journalists and we need you. What we expect you to do is apply. There are many scholarships for you out there and we are committed to holding more training like this for you. Share this: Twitter Facebook The Minister of State for Education, Anthony Anwuka, has returned to the country after spending 27 days in the United States on medical vacation. Mr. Anwuka, who briefed journalists shortly after he arrived the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at about 6 p.m. on Monday said he did not receive any funds from the federal government for the trip. The government had no penny at all inside it. There was no support from the federal government. I did not ask for it. I only applied for my leave and left. Maybe now that I am back, I could ask, the minister said. The news of the ailing minister flown to the U.S. was first confirmed by the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, who asked that prayers be said for Mr. Anwuka during a briefing in Abuja two weeks ago. Mr. Anwuka revealed that he was diagnosed of having high cholesterol level adding that all his medical expenses were footed by his son who is a medical doctor in the U.S. and the Imo governor, Rochas Okorocha, who paid for his plane ticket. I went for check-up and I was told I had a high cholesterol. I then reported to my son, who is a doctor in the United States. It was my state governor, the Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, who got me the ticket. I went to Aso Rock and applied for my leave. It was granted and I left on September 18. I am back to work now. My trip was sponsored by my son and my governor. The Committee to Protect Journalists and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists have called on authorities in Malta to swiftly ensure justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia, a prominent blogger killed today. The car that Caruana Galizia was driving exploded near her house in Bidnija, in the north of the island, media reported. Caruana Galizia, who reported on government corruption and the Panama Papers, told police two weeks ago that she had received death threats, according to Maltas national broadcaster TVM, which did not provide further detail. The journalists blog, Running Commentary, which included investigative reports and commentary on politicians, was one of the most widely read websites in Malta, according to reports. Daphne Caruana Galizia investigated wrongdoing in Maltas political, business and criminal worlds, said CPJ Deputy Executive Director Robert Mahoney. The investigation into her murder therefore must be thorough, credible and timely. A forensic expert was cited in local media as saying that preliminary investigations suggest that explosives were not placed inside the car, and that a remote control could have been used to set the bomb off. Maltas Prime Minister Joseph Muscat announced that the FBI had agreed to assist local police in the investigation, according to Reuters. Mr. Muscat condemned todays attack, which he described as an attack on press freedom. The Prime Minister added in a statement, Everyone knows Ms. Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way. Caruana Galizias reports about Mr. Muscats alleged connection to the Panama Papers scandal forced him to call early elections in June 2017, after harsh criticism from members of the European Parliament. The 53-year-old journalist alleged that Mr. Muscat and his wife were behind an offshore company that received over US$1 million in payments from a Dubai company allegedly owned by Leyla Aliyeva, a daughter of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev. Mr. Muscat denied the allegations, according to reports. Caruana Galizias last blog, which was critical of the countrys opposition party, was posted at 2:35 p.m. local time, just a few minutes before she left her house, according to local reports. The journalists critical coverage led to several legal battles. CPJ documented in February how a court ordered her bank accounts to be frozen until a verdict was reached in a libel case that two government officials had filed against her. CPJ was unable to determine the current status of the case. Investigative journalists around the world have condemned the killing and called for thorough investigation. Gerard Ryle, director of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), issued the statement below following the tragic news from Malta: The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists is shocked by the news of the death of Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Caruana Galizia has been at the forefront of important investigations in the public interest and has exposed offshore dealings of prominent political figures in Malta. Caruana Galizia was the mother of ICIJ developer and data journalist Matthew Caruana Galizia. ICIJ condemns violence against journalists and is deeply concerned about freedom of the press in Malta. ICIJ calls upon the Maltese authorities to investigate the murder and bring the perpetrators to justice. ICIJs thoughts are with the Caruana Galizia family at this time. President Muhammadu Buhari will Wednesday depart for Istanbul, Turkey to participate in the ninth Summit of the Developing 8 (D-8) on Friday, October 20, 2017. Prior to the D-8 Summit, President Buhari, at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, will participate in an official working visit to Ankara, the capital city. In Ankara, the president will have a tete-a-tete with his Turkish counterpart while delegations from both countries will hold discussions in various fields including defence cooperation, security, educational and migration issues. The Nigerian leader will also visit the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara where he will meet with the Speaker, Ismail Kahraman. While in Istanbul, the Turkish commercial centre, President Buhari will use the occasion of the D-8 Summit to bolster warm and growing ties across a broad range of areas of cooperation with leaders of the D8-member countries, namely Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey. The Summit with the theme, Expanding Opportunities through Cooperation, will among other things, focus on cooperation in the areas of agriculture, trade, transport, energy and increased private sector participation among member-countries. During the ninth Summit of the D-8, which will also mark the 20th anniversary of the organisation established to improve the developing countries positions in the world economy, the President will highlight the significant show of confidence in Nigerias business environment and economy. He will also affirm Nigerias resolve to work with D-8 member-countries on many key areas, including peace and security, economy and trade. At the end of the Summit, the Heads of State and Government will adopt a Communique, also known as the Istanbul Declaration. The president will be accompanied on the trip by ministers, top government officials, including the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Hameed Ali. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Tuesday said Nigeria needs a strong ruling party and a strong opposition party to check the government for democracy to thrive in the country. Mr. Obasanjo said this while speaking with journalists shortly after he hosted the Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Ahmed Markafi, at Green Legacy Resort in Abeokuta. The former President who reinstated that he has ended partisan politics, however, said that the decision does not affect his passion for Nigerias growth. I have said that publicly before and I will say it again: for our democracy to thrive and continue to be strong, we need strong party in government and strong party in the opposition. It has to be that way, otherwise the party in government will get away with impunity and that is not good for democracy, he said. I have said no partisan politics for me again. And not partisan politics but Nigeria is my passion until death do us part. Anything that concerns Nigeria, the good of Nigeria, you will see my involvement, Mr. Obasanjo stressed. On his meeting with Mr. Makarfi, the former president said it was a meeting of two former colleagues. This na two colleagues meeting, two colleagues before before. When I was the President, Chairman was a governor. Two colleagues before before, he said. He said he emphasised to his guest that he would never again be involved in party politics. I have told the Chairman that I was in PDP before but not now. God forbid say when a dog vomits, it will go back to eat its vomit, no. I have said no partisan politics for me again and not partisan politics. So, the Chairman has come to greet me and I greet am. And now that weve greeted ourselves, Chairman will be going, you gentlemen and ladies of the press, you can now go, leave the Chairman alone, he stated. School activities were abruptly brought to an end in Akure and other major towns in Ondo State on Tuesday as the rumour of forced military vaccinations of school pupils by Monkeypox virus spread across the state. At about 11a.m., panicky parents were seen running in different directions to pick their children they had earlier dropped off at their different schools as soon as the rumour began to spread. Most of the public schools were the most affected, as the students left the schools on their own before the schools management could take proper control of the situation. At Fabian Group of Schools, located at Esure, in Akure, parents came in their numbers to besiege the school, urging the school to shut its gates against the invading vaccinators. Appeals by the principal, Peter Huno, that it was a mere rumour that should be discarded fell on deaf ears. As soon as they realised that the principal would not do their instruction, they started taking the children home. The school was forced to call an emergency assembly where they agreed to close down the school at 1p.m. as against the usual closing time. At the Police Children School, the management would not allow parents to take their children, even though parents were not convinced that the school could handle the situation. Reacting to the development, the Ondo State Government said there was no truth in the rumour making the rounds in the state. A statement by the Commissioner for Information, Yemi Olowolabi, stated that there was nowhere vaccination of pupils by the army took place in the state. The attention of the Ondo State Government has been drawn to a rumour in circulation that a forced vaccination exercise is being conducted around schools in the State, with panicking parents withdrawing their wards from schools, the statement noted. The State Government wish to inform parents, students, teachers, school authorities and the general public that the rumour is baseless, unfounded and should be disregarded. Real time investigation across the state has shown that none of such things exist in Ondo State. The State Government therefore advises the public, schools, students and teachers to go about their normal activities. Should there be any strange occurrence, the appropriate quarters should be informed immediately. The rumour began last in some states of the south east where fears of a military vaccination in schools said to be part of the armys Operation Python Dance, sent parents and school children scampering for safety. The fear was that the pupils were being forcefully vaccinated with the dreaded Monkey Pox virus currently ravaging some parts of the country. The rumour, which began in Anambra soon spread to Imo, Abia, Ebonyi and Enugu states, where parents also made haste to go to the schools to withdraw their children. The government of Enugu State and the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army have both condemned the rumour, describing it as mischievous. A statement by Sagir Musa, who is the Deputy Director Army Public Relations, denied that the armys medical outreach in the south east had any sinister motive. The attention of the 82 Division Nigerian Army (NA), has been drawn to a silly and mischievous publication now trending on the social media alleging that the ongoing free medical services giving to some communities in the South Eastern Region of Nigeria is with a sinister motive of depopulating the region through the so called monkey pox vaccination purportedly being conducted by the NA in the region, the army statement read. The Division wishes to make it clear that the free medical outreach is not a vaccine intended to infect monkey pox or any major contemporary or emerging diseases in Nigeria to the people of South East or any part of the country. The exercise is part of the corporate social responsibility initiatives imbued in to the overall Exercise EGWU EKE 11 package, to the people of the South Eastern Region which is the Area of Responsibility of the 82 Division NA and is also the theatre of the Exercise. Instructively, the free medical services in the region started on the 18th of September 2017 in Nkwaagu community of Abakaliki Local Government Area (LGA) of Ebonyi State. At the event, the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, the Chairman of the LGA and some traditional rulers of the benefiting community were there at the flagg off of the exercise by the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General TY Buratai. Other areas where the programme was conducted were Ovim in Isoukwato LGA of Abia State, Mbaise in Imo State, ORJI River in Enugu and now Ozubulo in Anambra State. In all the mentioned areas, there has not been any recorded incident or complain of any kind arising from the noble humanitarian gesture of the NA. Hence, the wicked, ill motivated rumour/ lies is the handiwork of unpatriotic elements who can go to any length to discredit the noble services of the NA in the region, which at the moment they will not succeed. Share this: Twitter Facebook President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja expressed concern on the growing complaints and agitations by workers in states over unpaid salaries and allowances, in spite of interventions by the Federal Government Receiving a group of governors led by the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, AbdulAziz Yari, at the State House, President Buhari said the plight of workers in the states need urgent attention as many could barely survive. How can anyone go to bed and sleep soundly when workers have not been paid their salaries for months. I actually wonder how the workers feed their families, pay their rents and even pay school fees for their children, he said. The president told the governors that two out of the three-pronged focus of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure the country and fight corruption had received some commendable reviews by the people, noting that the challenge in payment of salaries in states had taken a toll on the people. God has been merciful in hearing the prayers of his servants so the rainy season has been good, you can ask the Kebbi State governor on this, and our enormous food importation bill has gone down, the president said. President Buhari said the Federal Government and state executives would need to work closer together to ameliorate the situation of workers across the country. The president said he had instructed all government agencies to comply with the Treasury Single Account (TSA) in order to ensure more transparency and prudence in accounting for the revenues of the government and the sharing of entitlements with states. In his remark, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum said the various interventions by the Federal Government, which include the bailouts, were judiciously utilized by the states, stressing that the governors inherited backlog of unpaid salaries and huge debts portfolios on assumption of office. We are concerned with the situation in our states, and we are trying our best to manage the resources, he said. Mr. Yari noted that the bailout funds, and part of the fallout from the London-Paris Club that had been received by the states, were properly expended to alleviate the plight of workers, but more had to be done. The NGF chairman commended the efforts of the President in improving the economy, assuring that the states would continue working with the Federal Government to improve the livelihood of workers and all Nigerians. Governors of Ondo, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kwara, Akwa Ibom and the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State were part of the visit to the President. Governors from the 36 states have asked President Muhammadu Buhari to approve the balance of 50 per cent Paris/London loan refund for them ahead 2018 budget. The chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF, and governor of Zamfara state, Abdulaziz Yari, stated this Tuesday shortly after leading some governors to meet with the president. Briefing journalists after the meeting, Mr. Yari said they were at the villa to remind Mr. Buhari of his directive in 2016 that 50 per cent of the money be paid to states, and the balance after reconciliation. Mr. Yari said they told Mr. Buhari that reconciliation is on since 2016, we are hoping that both the DMO, (Debt Management Office) Ministry of Finance, AGF and our consultants are concluding this reconciliation by November. So, we want to crave your indulgence so that we can factor the numbers in our 2018 budget so that we can use it for projects and other recurrent spending according to the specification given by our respective House of Assemblies. The Zamfara governor also said they were at the presidents office to thank him for his concern about the economy of most states and for giving them support ranging from bail out, restructuring our debt and London- Paris club exit payment. He said Nigeria got out of recession largely because of the bailouts given to states by the president because most of the countrys population reside in the states. Mr. Yari said Mr. President was prompt in responding to them and assured that the reconciliation will be completed when he returns from a foreign trip. We are going to work with the numbers when he returns from his trip, we are going to follow up this meeting with him so that we can conclude on what is going to be done next, Mr. Yari said. President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja pledged continued support for the socio-economic development of the Niger Delta region. Giving the assurance at a brief ceremony in the State House to sign the bill establishing the University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State, into law, the president said this administration is fully committed to supporting the Niger Delta in its endeavours to achieve socio-economic development. He appealed to all communities in the region to strive for peace through dialogue in resolving all conflicts not only among them, but also with business entities and the authorities. With the signing of the bill into law, the path has been cleared for the establishment of the specialised university in the Niger Delta, charged with training and research in petroleum technologies. Rosalie Brown Thunder, Educator, passed away Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017. She was surrounded by family and loved ones in her home at the Indian Mission in Wisconsin. Rosalie was born May 27, 1940, in Tomah, to Myron Funmaker and Marian (Stacy) White. She attended primary school at Hochunk-gra School and completed her secondary education at the age of 16, at Black River Falls High School. She received her bachelor of science degree in psychology from Northeastern University in Chicago, and her masters in education from Penn State University. She then obtained a Doctorate of Philosophy in Education Policy, also at Penn State. Rosalie was a wife, a mother, a sister, and a most beloved grandmother, as well as a dedicated mentor and educator. Her family is most proud of her lifetime commitment of instilling the importance of education to everyone she knew and loved. She was a gifted musician. She enjoyed playing the piano, the trumpet, the guitar, the bass, the organ and she loved to sing. Many contemporary musicians/artists credit Rosalie for introducing them to music by providing music lessons and encouragement. Rosalie taught in many schools across Minnesota and Wisconsin. She began her teaching career in Chicago, as a Head Start teacher for the American Indian Center. She returned to Black River Falls in 1974, where she continued her love of teaching as an education coordinator for the Black River Falls School District. In 1983, she accepted a teaching position in Minneapolis, with the Heart of the Earth Survival School. It was during this time that her passion for education led her to achieve the leadership position of school principal at Heart of The Earth. Also, during this time she was responsible for this school obtaining state accreditation. In 1987, she was the recipient of the prestigious Minnesota Peace Prize for her success in the field of education. She gave many students guidance and inspired those around her to achieve higher education. In 1994, Rosalie served as the education director for the Ho-chunk nation, where she was a passionate advocate for teaching the Ho-Chunk language. She assisted in creating the lexicon and curriculum that continues to be used to this day. She was always a teacher, counselor, tutor, and inspirer to Ho-chunk youth. She supported and encouraged Ho-Chunk youth to achieve their educational endeavors. She taught up to 73 kids a day, four days a week. In 2014, she was recognized for these efforts and was honored as the Wisconsin Indian Educator of the Year. Rosalie loved to travel and experience the world with her family. She loved to visit with her many friends. She loved to spend time at the casino. She loved to play bingo. Her favorite thing to do was to support and cheer on her children while they performed on stage or competed on the field and ice. Many times, one could hear her in the stands cheering for her children and even louder for her grandchildren. She played the organ for her church and served on the consistory of the church for many years. She was a member of many boards and service organizations. She is survived by her children, Melissa Johnson of Black River Falls, Joseph (Simone) Brown Thunder of Falcon Heights, Minn., John (Vera) Brown Thunder of Maricopa, Ariz., and Tedd Brown Thunder of Black River Falls, Jay Williams of Minneapolis. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Lief Kimball, Daelisa Johnson, Emma Brown Thunder, Taylor Brown Thunder, Brooke Brown Thunder, Elise Brown Thunder, Elias Brown Thunder, and Sophia Brown Thunder. Other family member she is survived by include, uncle, George Stacy; aunt, Arlene Keahna; brothers, Dallas (Mary) White and Glen White; sisters, Faye White, Gale White, and Sherry White; and numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and other relatives and friends. A memorial service will be held at noon Tuesday at the Hocak United Church of Christ in the Indian Mission, Wis. Buswell Funeral Home is handling funeral arrangements.The family would like to recognize and thank the staff and volunteers of Ho-Chunk Nation Health Care Center and Black River Falls Hospice for providing excellent care with a personal touch for our beloved Rosalie. Governor Darius Ishaku of Taraba State on Tuesday advised mining title holders to access Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) from his state before mining, to avoid disruption of their operation. Mr. Ishaku gave the advice at the ongoing second Nigeria Mining Week, organized by the Miners Association of Nigeria, in partnership with IPAD Nigeria, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Spintelligent in Abuja. He expressed displeasure over mining title holders from Abuja who engaged in mining in the state without permission or notifying the authorities. I will no longer tolerate this attitude of mining title holders from Abuja venturing into my state to conduct mining without informing the state authority or access C of O before commencing mining. I am aware that mining is on the exclusive list, that means minerals in all the states belong to the Federal Government but government should also remember that the land belongs to the state as well, he said. He said any mining title holder that refused to take permission or access C of O would not be allowed to mine in Taraba henceforth. According to him, Taraba is blessed with 50 different types of minerals but they were being mined illegally, urging the federal government to address illegal mining as a matter of urgency. Also Governor Nasir El-rufai of Kaduna State, said it became imperative not to underestimate the risks and difficulties associated with the solid minerals development. Mr. El-rufai, who was represented by Amina Sijuade, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, said huge capital requirements, long gestation period, the shortage of right skills, unavailability of accurate and reliable data, should be addressed for Nigeria to achieve economic growth. The President of Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Shehu Sani, lauded the current crack down on illegal miners, saying that this had encouraged more miners to invest in the sector, adding that government should sustain the exercise. He also advised government to gear up for the impending boom in lead and lithium, following plans by some western countries to embrace renewable energy. We have an advantage because renewable energy is about lead and lithium and other metals which we have in abundance; federal government should put in place a strategy for the coming boom. (NAN) Mohammed Muhuiddin, the outgoing UNICEFs Chief of Field Office for Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi, says that there is over 50 per cent decrease in number of out-of-school children in Sokoto state. Mr. Muhuiddin made the disclosure on Tuesday at a reception organised in his honour by the Sokoto State Government after the completion of his tour of duty. He said that the number of out-of-school children in Sokoto, which he noted was the highest in the country, had dropped from 69 per cent in 2015 to 37 per cent in 2017. The Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) for 2016 to 2017 showed that Sokoto state has made appreciable progress, resulting in over 50 per cent cut in the number of out-of-school children. It gladdens my heart, seeing the commitment shown by the political leadership and the technical teams set up by the government to work with UNICEF and partners in various sectors for the children of the state. We have achieved significant changes in results, and I have to say these changes are positive and unique in Nigeria. It is always satisfying when you implement projects and see the results and the impact these results have made, the UNICEF official said. He said also said an inspection of some projects in schools in Binji revealed a class of 48 pupils in which there were 36 girls as against 12 boys. This is a good measure of the progress made and I urge you to sustain it for the overall development of the state and the country in general. Mr. Muhuiddin urged the government to do more especially in the area of routine immunisation, expressing optimism that the plans put together would have positive impact in the next two years to four years. Responding, Governor Aminu Tambuwal, commended Mr. Muhuiddin for the commitment, passion and dexterity he showed in the discharge of his duty while in Sokoto. Mr. Tambuwal said that the people of the state would miss a dear friend. We will miss you, to us you are a friend and reliable partner who took his job of saving humanity with all the seriousness it deserved. The people and Government of Sokoto State wish you success in your future assignment in Calcutta, India, he said. (NAN) The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar III, has dismissed speculations that vaccines for polio and other communicable diseases cause the death of infants. The paramount traditional ruler said this during a courtesy visit to Governor Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State on Tuesday in Lafia, the state capital. He advised politicians to stop politicising issues relating to health care for selfish reasons. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abubakar III, who is also the President General of Jamaatul Nasril Islam and the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, is in Lafia for the 3rd Quarter Meeting on Polio Eradication Routine Immunisation. He expressed displeasure at reports that vaccines for immunisation have been contaminated to poison certain groups of people and followers of certain religion in the country. He described the reports as false and warned those spreading the rumours to stop discouraging innocent Nigerians from participating in the immunisation exercise to protect them against polio and other communicable diseases. There are two things we must never politicise and they are health and security issues because they affect everybody irrespective of religious or tribal background. I was so saddened when we heard that the vaccines contain poison to eliminate certain races. We must never play politics with peoples lives. The vaccines are not meant to kill anybody but to protect Nigerians from these communicable diseases. We will never support anything that will hurt anybody. So I urge our politicians and others to stop playing politics with the lives of anybody, the Sultan appealed. He also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders and other well-meaning Nigerians to help enlighten others on the vital importance of immunisation to end the endemic status of some communicable diseases in the country. On the mandate of the committee, Abubakar III explained that the committee was his vision set up eight years ago to fight polio and other communicable diseases especially in Northern Nigeria. `Health is the most important thing to human beings. No matter how strong, brilliant and smart you are, if you are not healthy, you are useless. That is why we set up this committee eight years ago to fight polio and other communicable diseases, he said. The Sultan commended the Nasarawa State Government for its enviable contributions to the health sector especially primary healthcare. According to him, the contributions of the state government to health care prompted the committee to choose the state for its third quarter meeting. The last meeting we held was around July in Sokoto. It was there we heard of the strides made by the state government in the health sector and decided to hold the next meeting there. We thank the state governor and his able lieutenants for giving us tremendous support, Abubakar III said. Responding, Mr. Al-Makura thanked the Sultan and other members of the committee for choosing the state for the meeting. We are proud and grateful for your advocacy and campaign on health which you have personally embarked on across Nigeria. Your efforts on polio and other communicable diseases are efforts that have saved us from dooms day. We have nothing to give you but appreciation. We cannot thank you enough for your selfless service to the nation. I would like to encourage you to keep up the good work, the governor said. Mr. Al-Makura, however, appealed to the committee and state governments in Northern Nigeria to take seriously the threat of Monkey pox so as to prevent it from spreading across the region. We should not take lightly this issue of monkey pox, especially for some of us in the North. I want to assure you we will commence enlightenment and sensitisation of people to take to immunisation. I want to also assure that Nasarawa State will continue to collaborate with this committee in order for it to achieve its objectives, he said. The governor also pledged that the health budget of the state for the remaining lifespan of the current administration would be given adequate attention to tackle health challenges across the state. (NAN) The police in Cross River on Monday said that six residents of Danare community in Boki Local Government Area were shot by gendarmes from Bodam community during an invasion on the Nigerian territory by Cameroonians. Hafiz Inuwa, the Commissioner of Police, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Calabar. He said that a Cameroonian community, `Bodam, on the border with Nigerias Boki Local Government Area, had been in crisis with Danare community over the international land dispute. Mr. Inuwa said after visiting Danare community that although no life was lost, six residents of Danare community were shot by the Cameroonians. We found out that six persons were shot and they are currently in the hospital as the pellets were being removed from their bodies. They were shot by the people of Bodam village from Cameroon. We have advised the people to restore normalcy and shun all forms of crisis and allow the government to take charge. They told us that they were preparing to repel the attack because the Cameroonians had encroached almost 43km into their land, he said. The commissioner further explained that the Danare people were appealing to the government to restore electricity, drinking water, communication and police post in the area. Itam Abang, the member representing Boki I State Constituency in Cross River House of Assembly, told the News Agency of Nigeria that over 1,000 cocoa, plantain and banana farms were also destroyed by the Cameroonians. Mr. Itam said majority of residents in the area were mainly farmers and appealed to the federal government to intervene by providing the people with adequate security and social amenities. When we got there, the Danare people had already mobilised for war. Luckily, we arrived on time in company with the commissioner of police and we had to prevail on them not to go into the forest. From where we were standing, we could hear gunshots because the Cameroonians had really encroached into the Danare community. And from what my people told me, the Cameroonians have destroyed over 1,000 of their farmlands and this is a huge loss to the farmers. We advised residents in the community to hold their peace that the state and Federal Government were going to step in with a view to restoring peace and normalcy in the area, she said. (NAN) A former Vice President, Alex Ekwueme, has solicited support for Oseloka Obaze, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate in the November 18 governorship election in Anambra. Mr. Ekwueme, a founding member of the party, who led other PDP chieftains including Ahmed Makarfi, its National Caretaker Committee Chairman, at the flag-off of the campaign in Onitsha on Monday, described Mr. Obaze as the best for Anambra. Mr. Ekwueme described Anambra as the home of PDP, and recalled that the party, in 1999, won 19 out of 21 local government areas, three senatorial seats and 28 out of 30 State House of Assembly seats. He said that Peter Obis victory, on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), in 2006, took the party to a political wilderness, saying that Mr. Obi won because of indiscipline and selfishness of PDP members. The good thing is that Obi is back to PDP to help rebuild the party; we are here today to reclaim what belongs to us, he said. Mr. Ekwueme urged the people to support the partys candidate, Mr. Obaze, and his deputy, Chidi Onyemelukwe, to reclaim power and place the state in the national mainstream of governance. In his remarks, Mr. Makarfi, who handed the partys flag to Mr. Obaze, emphasised the need to reconcile aggrieved members. He said that the PDP was a national party that was well positioned to solve the problems of Nigerians as it had never been known to differentiate along tribal or other sectional lines. There are many students today, who cannot pay their school fees; there are also many graduates who cannot get employed after school. We assure you that if elected, PDP will provide job opportunities and ensure quality education for everyone. The manifesto of Obaze will ensure massive development of the state and Anambra people will be happy. We want PDP members to close ranks to ensure victory for the party, Mr. Makarfi said. Also speaking, former governor of the state, Peter Obi, said that Mr. Obaze would perform creditably, if elected as governor on November 18. If you followed my campaign for Gov. Willie Obiano of APGA about four years ago, I promised to lead the campaign to vote him out, if he failed the people. That is what I am doing now, he said. Mr. Obi said that Mr. Obiano had so far received N409 billion, including internally generated revenue. According to him, the aggregate amount is three times what Chris Ngige received in 34 months, yet built 199kms of roads. The former governor said that he built many roads in the state, especially in Anambra North senatorial district, where Mr. Obiano hailed from. He criticized Mr. Obiano for spending three years as governor without making any impact, especially in the areas of security and education. On his part, Mr. Obaze said that the partys mission was to take back Government House, Awka, and regretted that Anambra was broke in spite of massive resources. He particularly regretted that Anambra, which used to be the first in the country in public examinations, had slipped to sixth position, while allowances given to old people had been stopped. The PDP governorship candidate promised to hand power back to the people, and urged those who felt hurt by the outcome of the primary elections, to join him to unseat Obiano. Other PDP top shots, who graced the flag-off, included Ben Obi, Secretary, PDP National Caretaker Committee; National Women Leader, Hadiza Yusuf; National Vice Chairman, South East, Austin Umahi, among others. (NAN) The leader of the Indigenous People Of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, was absent in court on Tuesday morning as his trial for alleged treason continued at an Abuja court. A senator who stood as surety for Mr. Kanu also asked to be relieved of that role. Mr. Kanu is facing trial along with three others, and a fourth co-defendant, Bright Chimezie, who is yet to be added to the list of defendants. The prosecution counsel, Shuabu Labaran, asked the court to revoke Mr. Kanus bail following his absence and called on the court to arrest the sureties who stood in for the defendant. In his reaction, Mr. Kanus lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, expressed surprise at the submission of Mr. Labaran. In a swift response, however, the judge, Binta Nyako, said she had no time for drama. You know I dont like drama. What Mr. Labaran has just said is that the first defendant is not here and because of that I should revoke his bail. Now its my turn to ask you: where is your defendant? Responding, Mr. Ejiofor said he cannot tell whether Mr. Kanu is still alive or dead. A mild drama resulting from an array of applications from the defendants and prosecution is currently ongoing. The senator who stood surety for Mr. Kanu, Eyinaya Abaribe, PDP-Abia, also applied to court to refund the N100 million bond earlier agreed to be given as part of Mr. Kanus bail condition. Mr. Abaribe in his motion cited what he described as the invasion of Mr. Kanus residence on September 11, during which a confrontation occurred between IPOB supporters and the Nigerian Army. According to the motion, Mr. Abaribe said Mr. Kanu has not been seen since the September clashes between soldiers and IPOB members. Since the stated visit of the Nigerian Army to the residence of the first defendant from September 11, 2017, the second respondent in this suit (Mr. Kanu) has not been seen in public, neither has he been reported as making any statement on any issue. Since September 20, the reports have been that the federal government has proscribed IPOB, and declared it a terrorist organization. The activities of the Nigerian Army as affecting the second defendant are matters of state secret incapable of being unravelled by the applicant, which activities have put the second defendant out of the reach of the applicant, such that the applicant cannot reasonably be expected to produce the second defendant before this court. The applicant lacks capacity to produce the person stated by the first respondent (government) as a terrorist or a person who is of interest to the applicant, Mr. Abaribe said. Mr. Kanus whereabouts has been unknown since September 14 after the IPOB confrontation with the army. While his lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, says he is in the armys custody, the army and other security agencies say he is not. Meanwhile, IPOB has said there would be violent confrontation if the federal government fails to provide Mr. Kanu in court. The group also warned the government not to provoke it into taking up arms by continually keeping Mr. Kanu. One outcome is guaranteed in all these, should Nigeria not produce our leader in court on the 17th of October 2017, there will be an inevitable confrontation on a scale the human mind cannot imagine, at a time and place of our choosing. By nature we are peace loving people, Nigeria should stop provoking us into armed conflict. They should bring our leader to Court, Emma Powerful, the groups spokesperson said in a statement on Monday. More details later Share this: Twitter Facebook The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Tukur Buratai, has officially ended operation Egwu Eke II, which took place at 82 Division of the Nigerian Army Area of Responsibility and Cross River. The Deputy Director Public Relations of 82 Division Nigerian Army, Enugu, Sagir Musa, a colonel, said this in a statement issued in Enugu on Monday. Mr. Musa said that Buratai, a lieutenant general, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division, Adamu Abubakar, a major general, declared the end of exercise at a ceremony in Sector 1 Tactical Headquarters at Umuahia, Abia at about 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 14. He said that the exercise was ended with the traditional activation of camp fire to formally signify the successful completion of the operation. The COAS, through Gen. Abubakar, commended all the officers, soldiers and personnel of para-military organisations that collaborated and synergised, worked tirelessly and commendably throughout the one month period for the exercise. He remarked further that the achievements recorded during the exercise in the areas of attainment of the mission specific training objectives, improvement in peace and security, curtailing the menace of violent irredentist groups in the theatre of the exercise (South Eastern part of Nigeria) is remarkable. On the part of the government and good people of Abia State, the representative of the Governor of Abia State, Emmanuel Nwabuko, expressed appreciation of the government and people of the state for the numerous achievements of exercise Egwu Eke II in terms of improvement of peace, security and stability of the state. He said that the government gave assurance that it will always leverage on the existing relationship between its people and the Nigerian Army whenever the need arises. Mr. Musa said that top commanders of formations and units within the division and representatives of Army Headquarters and Defence Headquarters attended the closing ceremony. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State has reacted to a trending screenshot on Twitter, which showed his verified Twitter handle, @GovernorRochas, respond to political blogger Japheth Omojuwas Tweet. A blogger, Japheth Omojuwa, had shared photos of Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers with Real Madrid stars Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo and captioned it: How long before Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos get their own statues? In the screenshot circulating on social media, the verified @GovernorRochas handle quoted the tweet and wrote: You are very stupid. The governor has been criticised since he unveiled a statue in honour of South African President Jacob Zuma in Owerri on Saturday. Asides the mammoth statue, Mr. Okorocha also named a road after Mr. Zuma. https://twitter.com/GovernorRochas/status/920291638085332998?p=v The governor has, however, said he didnt put out the tweet, adding that the image being circulated is the product of photoshop. Mr. Omojuwa also responded to the governors rebuttal describing it as a lie. It wasn't photoshopped! You tweeted and deleted it. That's why the capture says 35 seconds. You should have ignored it instead of lying. https://t.co/UAhl46VyQL JJ. Omojuwa (@Omojuwa) October 17, 2017 Sequel to the unveiling of the statue, Mr. Zuma was on Friday conferred with a traditional title of Ochiagha Imo, by Eze Imo, Samuel Ohiri. A former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, issued the title certificate. In a statement made available to PREMIUM TIMES, Mr. Okorocha said the honour was conferred on Mr. Zuma for his love for education. The award comes a few days after another Nigerian, Jelili Omoyele, a 35-year-old, was killed in South Africa. The recent development has created diverse reactions on social media as many have registered their grievances. Some chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, from the South-west met on Monday to discuss the possibility of having a united candidate for the partys chairmanship position. At least three candidates from the region have signified their interest to be the national chairman of Nigerias largest opposition party. Those who have declared their interest for the position include a former deputy chairman of the party, Bode George; a former governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel; and a former minister of education, Tunde Adeniran. Mondays meeting as reported by Punch Newspapers was at the instance of the Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose and held at the Renaissance Hotel in Lagos. Those present at the meeting were Rashidi Ladoja, former Oyo State governor; Mr. George; Dapo Sarumi, former minister of information and Tajudeen Oladipupo, a former national vice chairman of the PDP. Mr. Fayose said he called the meeting to share aspirations with them, find a common ground and go to the convention as an indivisible and united team. Messrs. Daniel and Adeniran were not at the meeting, but Mr. Fayose said they would be at subsequent meetings. He said Mr. Daniel sent a message to say why he could not make it to the meeting. Mr. Ladoja, who was governor of Oyo State under the PDP before defecting to the Accord Party said he was officially back to PDP. At the meeting, Mr. Ladoja said he was still consulting with people whether to contest for the position or not. A former governor of Lagos State, Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday congratulated the leader of Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Gani Adams, on his appointment as the next Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland. Mr. Tinubu, a national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the congratulatory message issued in Lagos said that Mr. Adams richly deserved the appointment He said Adams had never left anyone in doubt over his resolve to fight for the interest of Yoruba race. I congratulate you on your appointment as the next Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland. With this, you have joined the elite rank of generalissimos in Yorubaland. You deserve this honour. You have a heart of steel. You have never left anyone in doubt about your resolve and readiness to fight for and defend the interest of Yoruba race. In Yorubaland, particularly in the old Oyo Empire, the position of Aare Ona Kakanfo has always been a significant one. Mr. Tinubu said that as the 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo and going through the list of those who had occupied the position, Mr. Adams come with an extra youth, vigour and vitality, which would be an added advantage. I rejoice with you and wish you well as you assume this leadership mantle and forge ahead in the service of our people, he said. Mr. Tinubu also commended the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi for the appointment of Mr. Adams as the Aare Ona Kakanfo. I congratulate you Kabiyesi, Iku Baba Yeye, over the appointment of Otunba Gani Adams as the 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland You have accomplished another important task. You have broken the 19 years hiatus in picking another nominee for this prestigious title. Otunba Gani Adams appointment comes after the demise of the last occupant of the office, Chief MKO Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the June 12 election, who died in incarceration in 1998. I commend you Kabiyesi for the thorough search which produced the Oodua Peoples Congress Leader as the next occupant. While wishing you renewed strength, good health and continued successful reign, I also wish the new Aare Ona kakanfo a glorious tenure, he said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Alaafin of Oyo, Lamidi Adeyemi, confirmed the choice of Adams for the title on Sunday during his 79th birthday celebration. Aare Ona Kakanfo in the pre-colonial Yoruba history was a supreme military title conferred by the Alaafin of Oyo. (NAN) 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. ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- For the ninth straight year, the largest gathering of employers, jobs, job seekers and career experts in the Southeast all meet at the Amway Center on Nov. 17, 2017 from 11 p.m. until 3 p.m. If you're looking for a job, The Florida Blue, Florida Classic Career Expo & Diversity Job Fair will be the place to be. OrlandoJobs.com diversity Job fair Central Florida unemployment rate may be 3.8 percent but that doesn't even come close to telling the real story about the local job market. Whether you are unemployed, underemployed, displaced to Orlando from the hurricane in Puerto Rico or just looking for a great job, this job fair will be the place to meet over 100 real employers (W-2 Jobs). A variety of employers from over 15 sectors (both private and public) will be on hand with over 6,250 open jobs. Jobs in health care, hospitality, education, trade skills, engineering, customer service, police, government defense industry and many more "Job seekers in Central Florida apply to many jobs but never hear back from the employers. We are so proud to get so many top-notch employers in one place for 4 hours so anyone looking for a job or upgrade their current situation have a place to talk to a real person about a real W-2 job," said Roger Lear, President of OrlandoJobs.com. Top notch companies participating include UPS, Tech Data, Orange County Government, Regions, Mears, Bags, Harris, Orlando Health, Florida Blue just to name a few. Over 110 employers attending will be on hand on Nov. 17th. Updated information about all job fair related information for job seekers can be found at www.OrlandoJobs.com/jobfair. As important as the jobs, the career expo has four world-class career speakers who can help you tackle the job search world. Lisa Maile's session, "Power Interviewing: Present the Strongest, Most Marketable YOU," is so powerful it will make you realize that your appearance, nonverbal communication, and soft skills when perfected may be more important than many of the skills needed for the job. All sessions take place for FREE at the AMWAY Center (DEX Vista Imaging room). "This job fair is the real deal. We only take companies with real jobs and real recruiters so you can have a fantastic chance to find great jobs from companies; many you may never even of heard from. Our career experts will tell you the real story about your job search so you can stop wasting time on the computer with no feedback and meet your next employer face to face.", said Lear states. "This is a great day for Central Florida and it is completely free for the job seeker". The 2017 Florida Blue, Florida Classic Career Expo & Diversity Job Fair on Nov.17, 2017 is free to the public and job seekers are urged to sign up today. Free parking at the GEICO Garage sponsored by Hilton Grand. Employers who want to reserve space at this event can do that here: www.orlandojobs.com/diversity. About OrlandoJobs.com OrlandoJobs.com is Central Florida's #1 online job site, with an average of 110,000 visitors per month. The site was founded in 2005 by Roger Lear and Scott Kotroba, and is the official employment website of GOSHRM (Greater Orlando Human Resource Association (www.goshrm.org) along with partners WKMG Channel 6's ClickOrlando.com and the Orlando Weekly (print and online) Media Contact: Roger Lear OrlandoJobs.com [email protected] 407-645-4224 Related Links Job Seeker Job Fair Information Employer Job Fair Information SOURCE www.OrlandoJobs.com "What an honor to award Mini-Grants to teachers and librarians who work to enrich the standard curriculum. For 30 years now, we have supported the vision of the most innovative teachers, who in the spirit of Ezra Jack Keats inspire students to read joyfully, think creatively and support one another unconditionally," says Deborah Pope, Executive Director of the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation. "I encourage all educators who want to put their new ideas into action to go online and fill out the application." Since 1987, the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation has provided nearly $970,000 in support of Mini-Grant programs spanning the 50 states and U.S commonwealths. To learn more about Mini-Grants, including this year's criteria, visit Ezra Jack Keats Mini-Grants. The Foundation welcomes Mini-Grant proposals focusing on any subject. Last year, however, in honor of Ezra's centennial, teachers and librarians were invited to design programs that celebrated some aspect of Ezra Jack Keats' books and his vision of childhood. The following is an example of an outstanding 2016 Ezra Jack Keats Mini-Grant program, which challenged students to problem-solve using their "S.T.E.M. skills"...and their imaginations. A "Novel" Idea: Middle Schoolers Put Language Arts and Math Skills to Use to Help The Snowy Day's Peter Navigate Through the Snow Forty 8th-graders at Crestview Middle School in Ellisville, MO, were asked to read Ezra Jack Keats' beloved classic The Snowy Day and identify challenges that the main character, a little boy named Peter, encounters as he sets out to play in the snow. They were then asked to use math and science to help Peter overcome these obstacles. This "novel engineering" program was developed by Kristin Hancock, language arts teacher, and Liz Buesteton, math teacher, who taught both subjects together in one class. "The Ezra Jack Keats Foundation Mini-Grant covered all of the supplies we needed to make the program possible for our students. We could not have given our students this engaging opportunity without the grant," says Buesteton. The students worked in teams to "build" their solutions, using such "equipment" as straws, cups, popsicle sticks and spoons. Each finished project actually functioned! "Students rarely think of math and language arts as being compatible skills, but novel engineering challenges them to analyze conflicts in a story and create real-world solutions," says Hancock. "The students were engaged, focused, competitive and supportive of each other. As teachers, we were able to see a side of their creativity that we do not get to see on a daily basis." First prize was awarded to the group of "engineers" who created "Snow Shoes and Snowball Slingshot," a dual-purpose invention. The students fashioned snowshoes using small cups, popsicle sticks and cotton balls to keep Peter's feet warm, and formed the slingshot with an overturned cup, straws, popsicle sticks, rubber bands and a plastic spoon. Second prize went to the creators of a "Snowball Launcher/Shield," who turned paper plates, plastic spoons, tape, pipe cleaners, rubber-bands, cups, and cotton balls into a gadget that lobs snowballs for Peter while also protecting him from being hit. About the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation Founded by the late Caldecott award-winning children's book author and illustrator Ezra Jack Keats, the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation fosters children's love of reading and creative expression by supporting arts and literacy programs in public schools and libraries; cultivating new writers and illustrators of exceptional picture books that reflect the experience of childhood in our diverse culture; and protecting and promoting the work of Keats, whose book The Snowy Day broke the color barrier in children's publishing. Recently, The Snowy Day was adapted by Amazon as a holiday special, which earned two Daytime Emmys, including Outstanding Preschool Children's Animated Program; and is the theme of a set of Forever stamps issued by the United States Postal Service. To learn more about the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation, visit www.ezra-jack-keats.org. Keats. Imagination. Diversity. Contact: Sheree Wichard [email protected] 718-788-9585 SOURCE Ezra Jack Keats Foundation Related Links http://www.ezra-jack-keats.org ESB Bank, which has offices in La Crescent, Caledonia and Eitzen, Minn., has asked state and federal regulators for permission to acquire State Bank Financials branch office at 109 S. Walnut St. in downtown La Crescent. We anticipate the transaction to be completed with State Bank Financial in the first quarter of 2018, ESB President, CEO and Chairman of the Board Ronald G. Chamberlin said. We will be moving our location next door to our new building, 109 S. Walnut St., and will offer our clients complete full-service banking, including drive-up banking capabilities, Chamberlin said. ESB Bank, formerly known as Eitzen State Bank, opened its current La Crescent location at 111 S. Walnut St. in January 2016. Chamberlin said ESB Bank is the only financial institution headquartered in Houston County, and was chartered in 1909. We are pleased to reach this (sale) agreement with a longstanding community bank like ESB Bank, said Tim Kotnour, president and CEO of La Crosse-based State Bank Financial. Kotnour said State Bank Financial is grateful to the community for its past support, but decided to reduce locations to focus on its growth plans in western and central Wisconsin. Partners in Food Solutions (PFS) connects corporate experts with the food sector in several countries in Africa, where one in four in sub-Saharan Africans lacks adequate food to live a healthy, active life. In 2008, PFS started as an employee volunteer program within General Mills. Today, it's an independent nonprofit consortium of volunteers and retirees from six companies: General Mills, Cargill, DSM (Dutch), Buhler (Swiss), Hershey and Ardent Mills. "Partners in Food Solutions was born from the clear-eyed passion of General Mills leaders and employees who believed that the company had a responsibility to help improve food security and nutrition throughout Africa," says Jeff Dykstra, a co-founder of Partners in Food Solutions, and now the organization's CEO. "This work that has allowed us to engage and improve hundreds of food companies to benefit millions of consumers and farmers would have never happened without the vision and commitment of General Mills." The companies involved in PFS fund and provide experts with deep food knowledge and experience solving technical problems, ensuring food safety and developing products. Employee volunteers primarily communicate with PFS clients via videoconferencing. Learn more about Partners in Food Solutions, from interviews with Jeff Dykstra, CEO of PFS, and Madison Barre, a research and development engineer at General Mills (who has volunteered with small food companies in Malawi, Ethiopia and Kenya), in episode 26 of the "A Taste of General Mills" podcast. To view the full article and listen to the podcast, visit: https://blog.generalmills.com/2017/10/a-passion-for-fighting-hunger/ SOURCE General Mills Related Links http://www.generalmills.com Landing in NYC upon the brand's global launch in 1979, Absolut has authentic city roots by providing the premium vodka New Yorkers have consumed for nearly four decades. The Absolut Truth campaign tells the story of the brand's rich New York City heritage with a series of ads that take hyperlocal to the next level. Conveying sentiments candidly expressed by New Yorkers, these advertisements speak to specific neighborhoods using vernacular that city-dwellers intrinsically identify with. Additionally, the message lends to Absolut's forthcoming national campaign, as Absolut Truth promotes self-expression, inclusivity and acceptance through a New York lens. "New York City and Absolut share a rich history of acceptance and inclusion through decades of involvement in the city's vibrant nightlife and spirits scene," said Mara Washington, Director, Brand Activation, Absolut Vodka at Pernod Ricard USA. "We're excited to launch Absolut Truth, a candid New York City campaign that authentically speaks to our consumers in specific neighborhoods from the streets of Harlem down to the Bedford Avenue subway stop in Brooklyn." Featuring the iconic Absolut bottle silhouette, the out-of-home advertisements will appear throughout neighborhoods in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Each of the postings will include nuanced, copy-heavy phrases that speak specifically to the neighborhoods they appear in. In addition to the wild postings, Absolut Truth will also take over subway stations and create sidewalk art in certain neighborhoods. Continuing this fall, the Absolut Truth program will also release branded on-premise merchandise, an Absolut Truth video series, and an experiential event that captures the nostalgia of iconic NYC experiences. For more information on the Absolut Truth campaign, follow along on social media using the hashtag #AbsolutTruth. About Pernod Ricard USA Pernod Ricard USA is the premium spirits and wine company in the U.S., and the largest subsidiary of Paris, France-based Pernod Ricard SA. The company's leading spirits and wines include such prestigious brands as Absolut Vodka, , Avion Tequila, Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Kahlua Liqueur, Malibu, Martell Cognac, Olmeca Altos Tequila , Beefeater Gin, Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal, Monkey 47 Gin, Plymouth Gin, Seagram's Extra Dry Gin, , Hiram Walker Liqueurs, Lot No. 40 Canadian Whiskey, Midleton Irish Whiskey, Powers Irish Whiskey, Redbreast Irish Whiskey, Smithworks Vodka, Smooth Ambler Whiskey, Pernod, and Ricard; such superior wines as Jacob's Creek, Kenwood Vineyards, Campo Viejo and Brancott Estate; and such exquisite champagnes and sparkling wines as Perrier-Jouet Champagne, G.H. Mumm Champagne and Mumm Napa sparkling wines. Pernod Ricard USA is based in New York, New York, and has roughly 650 employees across the country. Pernod Ricard USA urges all adults to consume its products responsibly and has an active campaign to promote responsible drinking. For more information on this, please visit: www.responsibility.org. SOURCE Absolut Vodka Donations collected by ACE employees help the American Red Cross to provide food, shelter, supplies and emergency support to those affected in the Houston-area. "The Red Cross is continuing major relief efforts in response to both Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Hundreds of thousands of people were impacted by these storms, and with the help of donations like this from ACE Cash Express, we are providing help and hope to thousands of people in Texas and beyond," said Keith Rhodes, CEO, American Red Cross North Texas. ACE's charitable giving program, The Community Fund, is committed to empowering organizations that help children, provide education and promote financial literacy in the communities it serves. To date, the ACE Community Fund has donated more than $11 million to organizations across the nation. About ACE Cash Express ACE Cash Express, Inc. is a leading financial services provider serving consumers online and through a network of retail store locations. ACE provides a range of retail financial products and services including short-term consumer loans, check cashing, prepaid debit cards, money transfers, bill payments and money orders. ACE Cash Express, Inc. is one of the largest owners and operators of check cashing stores in the United States. SOURCE ACE Cash Express, Inc. Related Links http://www.acecashexpress.com SHANGHAI, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Acorn International, Inc. (NYSE: ATV) ("Acorn" or the "Company") today announced that sales of its Babaka-branded posture correction products have nearly doubled in the first nine months of 2017 compared to the same period in 2016. First introduced in 1997, Acorn's popular Babaka posture correction products have become a trusted brand for adults and children looking for high quality back and shoulder support. Babaka products are sold primarily through the e-commerce channel, which includes mainly the platforms of major third-party e-commerce companies in China, as well as currently to a very small degree Acorn's official website, www.xiangguo.com. In 2017, Acorn has been focused on enhancing its e-commerce channel by strengthening its core team with strategic new hires, diversifying and optimizing media buying and conversion and protecting its intellectual property. "We have seen consistent growth in our key product lines in 2017, due in large part to our success in energizing the e-commerce channel. With growing market share, we are able to take advantage of higher quality media and promotion opportunities from our third-party partners," said Mr. Jacob A. Fisch, President of Acorn. "We plan to continue this momentum through new product introductions and product line extensions, as well as expanding our distribution network to include additional third-party e-commerce platforms in China." About Acorn International, Inc. Co-founded in 1998 by Executive Chairman Robert Roche, Acorn is a marketing and branding company in China with a proven track record of developing, promoting and selling a diverse portfolio of proprietary-branded products, as well as well-established and promising new products from third parties. Its business is currently comprised of two main divisions, its direct sales platforms and its nationwide distribution network. For more information visit www.acorninternationalir.com. Safe Harbor Statement This news release contains forward-looking statements. These statements constitute "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "future," "going forward," "intends," "outlook," "plans," "target," "will," and similar statements. Such statements are based on management's current expectations and current market and operating conditions, and relate to events that involve known or unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company's control, which may cause the Company's actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties, or factors is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. SOURCE Acorn International Related Links http://www.acorninternationalir.com Images now make up the majority of digital communication with an estimated 1.2 trillion digital photos taken in 2017. Recent studies also show that 72% of all buying decisions are influenced by visual content, and that most consumers believe product imagery is more important than all ratings, reviews, and text descriptions. Adhark customers are now poised to disrupt the way all photos, graphics, art, videos, and brand content are created for impact on consumer audiences. The Boston-based image performance software company is the first to allow a computer to have "Design Sense," the collective knowledge and experience of thousands of creative and marketing professionals rolled into one powerful brain. "We are leading the world into a new era of quantified design," said Jehan Hamedi, founder and CEO of Adhark. "I predict the only brands that will prosper in the next 10 years will be those smart enough to make imagery the imperative and stop guessing on what will resonate." Developed by Adhark, the I-Score is a resonance rating that measures the desirability of imagery. The I-Score is the only application of its kind that uses deep learning to derive objective scoring of imagery appeal a powerful tool for those driven to stimulate audiences' behavior, and interests, through informed image selection. "Adhark has in comparison created a Nielsen-like rating system for design," said Alyssa Hoersten, art director for Tommy Hilfiger. "I believe Adhark's image scoring and image performance technology will become the new standard to inform thousands of design and photography decisions, having a profound impact on brand building. They are the first to enhance creative artwork with artificial intelligence." Through an ensemble of proprietary algorithms and intelligent, learning-based software tools, the Adhark Platform will ultimately help brands and agencies reach, engage and grow their target audiences more effectively. For more information about Adhark's image performance software, please visit www.adhark.com. About Adhark Adhark is an image performance software company that quantifies design to elevate brand performance. The Adhark Platform uses patented artificial intelligence and machine learning technology to understand the visual preferences of consumer audiences, guide creative decision-making, and deliver marketing success through enhanced imagery. Adhark also developed and maintains the I-Score, which is relied on by creative and marketing professionals to evaluate the resonance of imagery. Headquartered in Boston, Adhark's award-winning application of AI technology demystifies the impact of creative art, exposing a variety of unforeseen visual stimuli that ignite engagement. Join the Adhark Community and be a part of the movement: www.adhark.com. Media Inquiries: Dominic Amenta, DPA Communications [email protected] 781-789-5074 SOURCE Adhark, Inc. Related Links http://www.adhark.com In one event, a U.S. Navy ship operating with the BMD 4.0.3 Aegis Combat System conducted a simulated SM-3 Blk IB TU engagement of a live short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) target using remote track data provided by a Spanish F-100 class ship. In the same event, another U.S. Navy ship, operating with the Baseline 9.C1 integrated air and missile defense capabilty, launched SM-2 missiles against cruise missile targets while simultaneously tracking the SRBM. In another event, a U.S. Navy ship with BMD 4.0.3 Aegis Combat System successfully intercepted a medium-range ballistic missile target with an SM-3 Blk IB TU. "The tests show how flexible and versatile the Aegis Combat System is with other international navies around the world," said Jim Sheridan, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Naval Combat & Missile Defense Systems. "Working with our allied nations and the U.S. Navy depicts the interoperability of the Aegis Combat System with other disparate systems in an integrated air and missile defense environment." As a proven world leader in systems integration and development of air and missile defense systems and technologies, Lockheed Martin delivers high-quality missile defense solutions that protect citizens, critical assets and deployed forces from current and future threats. The company's experience spans missile design and production, hit-to-kill capabilities, infrared seekers, command and control/battle management, and communications, precision pointing and tracking optics, radar and signal processing, as well as threat-representative targets for missile defense tests. For additional information, visit our website: www.lockheedmartin.com/us/products/aegis/evolutionary-design.html#bmd 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. SOURCE Lockheed Martin Related Links http://www.lockheedmartin.com MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Aerospike, the leader in hybrid memory architecture databases, announced today an upcoming new version of its database Aerospike 4.0 Enterprise Edition which will provide strong consistency and high performance for enterprise systems of engagement (SoE). Data resides at the core of digital transformation. As enterprises drive business model transitions in the algorithmic economy, it is data that uniquely enables them to expand their market presence and extend traditional value chains. Business processes can be transformed by a superior ability to gather intelligence, make decisions, and act in real time. Aerospike continues to blaze a trail in the database space by providing an internet scale SoE database to satisfy the hyper-performance and latency needs of growing industries like AdTech, Gaming, and FinServ. Today, it takes the next step by providing a transformational new capability that guarantees strong data consistency without compromising on performance thereby helping Enterprises capitalize on digital transformation with a best in class "Enterprise SoE." "This is another milestone for Aerospike executing on its enterprise strategy to drive and enable profitable business outcomes," said John Dillon, CEO of Aerospike. "This powerful new solution gives enterprises and their customers an opportunity to transform their businesses by helping them to understand their customers better, optimize delivery of new services, and ultimately, increase revenue." "ThreatMetrix leverages anonymized data from across 1.4 billion online user transactions to provide businesses with insight into the true digital identity of their customers. Working with Aerospike helps us to do this faster than ever evaluating billions of data points across 75 million daily transactions, all in real time. As a result, digital business can quickly and accurately distinguish between genuine users and fraudsters, making a true consumer's online experience secure and friction-free," says Phil Steffora, Chief Security Officer at ThreatMetrix. "Airtel is at the forefront of deploying cutting-edge digital innovation and technology to deliver a great experience to its customers. Digital channels are fast becoming the preferred mode of service delivery and customer interaction for us. As a result, we are managing massive volumes of data that is growing rapidly. We are extremely delighted to partner with Aerospike to deploy a high-performance data layer between our digital channels and core telecom systems to help us manage the massive scale of data with best performance. This layer also acts as a cushion for our core telecom platforms and optimizes the need to scale our core telecom platforms, resulting in an improved customer experience," says Harmeen Mehta, Global CIO and Director of Engineering at Bharti Airtel. "As a global leader in information services, Neustar connects offline consumer insights with online and mobile identifiers to provide our customers with authoritative information on the individuals they do business with. To be effective, we need a real-time database that can support billions of daily operations with high consistency, low latency, and fantastic throughput. Aerospike is the only technology we've found that is capable of meeting our needs in a cost-effective and dependable manner," says Peter Burke, SVP Technology at Neustar. Aerospike has also signed a definitive agreement to partner with Genesis Global, a leading FinTech solution provider in Europe and the Americas, to be an integral part of their Genesis Technology Framework. "As a leading provider of disruptive FinTech solutions, Genesis Global is at the nexus of leading technology as it is applied for innovative problem solving for financial services," says Stephen Murphy, Founder & CEO of Genesis Global. "Our Genesis Global Microservices Framework is at the core of many of customer solutions like Flow Analytics, Trade Cost Analytics, and Automated Quoting Systems, and we are pleased that Aerospike is adding the strong consistency feature to its globally leading, high-performance, scalable database that is key to our own, and our customers', success." Aerospike version 4.0 will be generally available in Q1 of 2018. For More Information visit https://www.aerospike.com/products/aerospike-database-platform/ About Aerospike Aerospike is an enterprise-class, hybrid memory architecture database solution that enables digital transformation by powering real-time, mission-critical applications and analytics across industries, including AdTech, ecommerce, gaming, telecommunications, and financial services. With use cases ranging from user profile store and real-time billing to fraud detection and directory services, Aerospike delivers predictable performance at scale, superior uptime, and high availability at the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO) compared to relational and first-generation NoSQL databases. Recognized by industry analysts as a visionary and leader, Aerospike is the database behind Nielsen Marketing Cloud, Williams Sonoma, InMobi, Kayak, and AppNexus. Aerospike is a privately-held company based in Mountain View, CA, and is backed by New Enterprise Associates, Alsop Louie Partners, and CNTP. Aerospike is a registered trademark of Aerospike, Inc. Other brands mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners. Media Contact Media Relations [email protected] SOURCE Aerospike Related Links http://www.aerospike.com LONDON, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Aftermarket fuel additives are employed to improve the performance of gasoline and diesel fuel. They are utilized for preemptive maintenance and also to reduce fuel-related issues. Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5143260 Aftermarket fuel additives help resolve issues such as engine performance, lost fuel economy, poor drivability, and excessive emissions. Aftermarket products are used to clean the components in which the lubricant operates, in order to enhance the performance of the lubricant itself. Global Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market: Scope of Study The report estimates and forecasts the aftermarket fuel additives market on the global and regional levels. The study provides forecast between 2017 and 2025 based on volume (tons) and revenue (US$ Mn) with 2016 as the base year. The report comprises an exhaustive value chain analysis for each of the segments. It provides a comprehensive view of the market. Value chain analysis also offers detailed information about value addition at each stage. The study includes drivers and restraints for the aftermarket fuel additives market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. The study also provides key market indicators affecting the growth of the market. The report analyzes opportunities in the aftermarket fuel additives market on the global and regional level. Drivers, restraints, and opportunities mentioned in the report are justified through quantitative and qualitative data. These have been verified through primary and secondary resources. Furthermore, the report analyzes substitute analysis of fuel additives and global average price trend analysis. The report includes Porter's Five Forces Model to determine the degree of competition in the aftermarket fuel additives market. The report comprises a qualitative write-up on market attractiveness analysis, wherein end-users and regions have been analyzed based on attractiveness for each region. Growth rate, market size, raw material availability, profit margin, impact strength, technology, competition, and other factors (such as environmental and legal) have been evaluated in order to derive the general attractiveness of the market. The report comprises price trend analysis for aftermarket fuel additives market between 2017 and 2025. Global Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market: Research Methodology Secondary research sources that were typically referred to include, but were not limited to, OPEC Annual Statistical Bulletin, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), International Energy Agency (IEA), Independent Chemical Information Service (ICIS), Additive Technical Committee (ATC-Europe), European Environment Agency, World Energy Outlook, FuelsEurope, International Maritime Organization (IMO), SAE International, European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), U.N. Comtrade, U.S. Department of Transportation, and Department of Transport Statistics, company websites, financial reports, annual reports, investor presentations, broker reports, and SEC filings. Other sources such as internal and external proprietary databases, statistical databases and market reports, news articles, national government documents, and webcasts specific to companies operating in the market have also been referred for the report. In-depth interviews and discussions with a wide range of key opinion leaders and industry participants were conducted to compile this research report. Primary research represents the bulk of research efforts, supplemented by extensive secondary research. Key players' product literature, annual reports, press releases, and relevant documents were reviewed for competitive analysis and market understanding. This helped in validating and strengthening secondary research findings. Primary research further helped in developing the analysis team's expertise and market understanding. Global Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market: Market Dynamics Rising demand for aftermarket fuel additives is primarily driven due to the adherence to stringent environmental emission control regulations. Consequently, the aftermarket fuel additive market has expanded at a significant growth rate due to adherence to the various norms and regulations about carbon emission. Aftermarket fuel additives offer a wide range of benefits; however, awareness about them is low. This is primarily due to the utilization of aftermarket fuel additives only in the oil & gas industry, along with the lack of awareness of aftermarket fuel additives among consumers. Moreover, the non-availability of aftermarket fuel additives as a retail product in developing and under-developed countries, further hampers its market. The implementation of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), which requires 10% of energy used in transport to be from renewable sources by 2020, and secondly, the Fuel Quality Directive (FQD) requires fuel suppliers to reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of energy supplied for road transport by 6% by 2020, supported the usage of aftermarket fuel additives. The chemical industry's competitive landscape is changing rapidly. The discovery of shale gas in the U.S. is driving the supply base of the chemical industry towards the West. Meanwhile, the demand base of the chemical industry continues to move to emerging markets, though at volatile growth rates which means the most attractive markets are changing from one year to the next. This lack of visibility is increasing the risk of supply chain disruption, which is anticipated to dramatically impact the market. Therefore, manufacturers are focusing on key markets to fuel their growth. This is anticipated to have a considerable impact on the market for aftermarket fuel additives during the forecast period. Global Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market: Market Segmentation The study provides a comprehensive view of the aftermarket fuel additives market by dividing it into product, fuel type, end-user industry, and geography segments. The applications are segmented into octane booster, cetane improver, corrosion inhibitor, antioxidants, deposit control, cold flow improver, combustion improver, anti-icing, dehazer/demulsifier, biocide, and others. Fuel types have been segmented into gasoline, diesel, and others. End-user industries have been divided into automotive (further divided into passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles, and heavy commercial vehicles), oil & gas, and others. These segments have been analyzed based on historic, present, and future trends. Regional segmentation includes the current and forecast consumption of aftermarket fuel additives in North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Market segmentation includes demand for consumption in all the regions individually. Global Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market: Competitive Landscape The report covers detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and profiles of key players operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report Afton Chemical Corporation, Lubrizol Corporation, Chevron Corporation, Total S.A., and Evonik. Company profiles include attributes such as company overview, number of employees, brand overview, key competitors, business overview, business strategies, recent/key developments, acquisitions, and financial overview (wherever applicable). The global aftermarket fuel additives market has been segmented as follows: Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market Product Analysis Octane Booster Cetane Improver Corrosion Inhibitor Antioxidants Deposit Control Cold Flow Improver Combustion Improver Anti-icing Dehazer/Demulsifier Biocide Others Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market Fuel Type Analysis Gasoline Diesel Others Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market End-user Industry Analysis Automotive Passenger Vehicles Light Commercial Vehicles Heavy Commercial Vehicles Oil & Gas Others Aftermarket Fuel Additives Market Regional Analysis North America U.S. Canada Latin America Brazil Mexico Rest of Latin America Europe Germany France U.K. Spain Italy Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China Japan India ASEAN Rest of Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa GCC South Africa Rest of Middle East & Africa Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5143260 About Reportbuyer Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers https://www.reportbuyer.com For more information: Sarah Smith Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 208 816 85 48 Website: www.reportbuyer.com SOURCE ReportBuyer Related Links http://www.reportbuyer.com "This is a significant win for Aircraft Readiness Alliance and allows our team to provide essential support to the U.S Navy," said Steve Adlich, President, ARA. "The alliance of Tyonek WorldWide Services, AES and Zenetex brings unmatched expertise and capability to provide safe, reliable aircraft in support of the Navy's readiness mission." ARA will have responsibility for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services on aircraft, aircraft engines and associated components and materials. In addition, the company will provide rework of existing aviation end items, systems, and components and manufacture of items and component parts. This includes modernization, conversion, in-service repair, assembly, disassembly, and all other categories of aircraft maintenance and associated business program support in San Diego, CA and other remote sites in the Western Pacific Region. Maintenance work will be performed on numerous types of aircraft, including, but not limited to the following: AV-8, C-130, C-2, E-2, EA-6B, F/A-18, H-1, H-53, H-60, MQ-8, P-3, P-8, F-35 and V-22; emerging new aircraft workload, and associated systems, equipment and components, such as LM2500, T34, T44, T45, T700 and Voyage Repair Team (VRT) services which cover the repair, maintenance, and overhaul of shipboard aircraft launch and recovery equipment. SOURCE Aircraft Readiness Alliance, LLC Robert Haley, Color Trends Manager for AkzoNobel's Wood Coatings business, presented the color and design influences driving the industry in the next year. He explained how specific styles within the wood market are moving into 2018. In his talk, Haley identified the importance of the open home design concept that is dominating new home construction and home renovations. "Open spaces provide opportunity for a flow of styles between areas within the home due to the absence of distinct rooms. This flow impacts design elements including building products, flooring, cabinetry and furniture selections. It also provides infinite combinations in design, creating distinct and individual living spaces," said Haley. In his presentation, Haley identified four wood finishing trends for 2018 that transcend design: Historically Modern Dominate wood tones, mixing contemporary looks with historically relevant pieces Dominate wood tones, mixing contemporary looks with historically relevant pieces Reclamation Products that are weathered, raw and organic that show the imperfections in wood Products that are weathered, raw and organic that show the imperfections in wood Pearl & Metallic A mix of modern and transitional that sparkle with a contemporary shimmer A mix of modern and transitional that sparkle with a contemporary shimmer Opaque The style dominating cottage and lodge design, with two-tone looks that can also be used to create a dramatic contemporary style "These trends influence many designs," says Haley. "Our job is to help our customers translate these trends into interesting colors, unique techniques and wood finishing processes in support of their business objectives. Sharing how the company's Color of the Year, Heart Wood, can be expressed on different wood substrates and used in a measured tonal value provides product designers an on-trend and broader palette to consider." Designers were enthusiastic about the trends research and presentation. "Collaborating with the AkzoNobel Color Studio helps my team and me create unique looks for our product development work" said Dudley Moore, President, Otto & Moore, Inc., an award-winning boutique furniture design company. "The finish on a furniture collection is an important selling feature and our work with AkzoNobel is important to my business, given the research they do on color trends and finishes. The Color Studio team is connected to manufacturers we work with, so a custom look created for a prototype piece in the US can be made locally or overseas and AkzoNobel is there to support the customer and ensure a beautiful finish on the collection." Haley's presentation was delivered at a client appreciation gathering hosted by AkzoNobel at the Market event, with nearly 200 industry leaders from around the world in attendance. Customers engaged with studio artisans to review the finishing trends and see different species of wood panels displayed in novel and unique ways. The exhibit was completed with a vignette interpreting the 2018 Color of the Year in furniture, cabinetry, flooring and building products to provide inspiration for guests. About AkzoNobel AkzoNobel creates everyday essentials to make people's lives more liveable and inspiring. As a leading global paints and coatings company and a major producer of specialty chemicals, we supply essential ingredients, essential protection and essential color to industries and consumers worldwide. Backed by a pioneering heritage, our innovative products and sustainable technologies are designed to meet the growing demands of our fast-changing planet, while making life easier. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, we have approximately 46,000 people in around 80 countries, while our portfolio includes well-known brands such as Dulux, Sikkens, International, Interpon and Eka. Consistently ranked as a leader in sustainability, we are dedicated to energizing cities and communities while creating a protected, colorful world where life is improved by what we do. SOURCE AkzoNobel Related Links https://www.akzonobel.com/home La Crosse Countys Cooperative Extension office might soon be back to full strength after many months of being shorthanded, but it took a bold and unusual move on the part of La Crosse County Administrator Steve OMalley to make that happen. Two positions in La Crosse Countys Extension office have been vacant because of a state hiring freeze while the UW-Extension system has been in reorganizational limbo for a couple years. The county has been without an agricultural education agent for 29 months, while the 4-H agent position has been vacant for 23 of the past 36 months. Those two agents and two others in La Crosse County personnel (family living educator Mary Meehan-Strub and community resources agent Karl Green) are paid for jointly by the county and the state, with the state having final say in hiring decisions. Part of UW-Extensions nEXT Generation plan originally called for forcing counties to share their agents with other counties in their cluster. Under that plan, La Crosse County was grouped with Monroe, Vernon, Richland and Crawford counties. OMalley and other county officials were among the most vocal opponents of that sharing arrangement, and the unfilled positions only made matters worse. Its been more than mildly frustrating, OMalley said. So in an effort to ensure La Crosse County gets the full services of the county ag and 4-H agents, and to expedite the filling of those vacancies, OMalley made a proposal to the state last March: Forget the hiring freeze and fill the ag and 4-H agent positions. In exchange, the county will pay a greater share for those positions. Past practice has been for the state to pay 60 percent of the salaries and benefits of Cooperative Extension agents, with the counties paying 40 percent. OMalley proposed to reverse those numbers, with the county paying 60 percent and the state paying 40 percent. In August, five months after making the proposal, OMalley finally got a response, with Cooperative Extension Dean Karl Martin agreeing to the deal. And it looks as though the La Crosse County Board will sign off on the deal, too. The boards Executive Committee voted unanimously at a special meeting Monday evening to support a resolution in favor of the proposal. This is really a step in the right direction, said board member Peggy Jerome. I see it as very good news. Board member Tina Wehrs also welcomed the news enthusiastically. We have lost a bit of our credibility with the agricultural community. I think its so important that we build those relationships again, she said. They are feeling that we left them hanging and left them out there without dedicated staff to help with their needs. Agriculture is a really, really important part of our economy and our community. The countys proposed budget includes $148,544 for the countys share of the cost of hiring the two Extension agents. The deal involves the elimination of a 4-H adviser position in the countys Extension office to cover the countys extra cost in hiring the Extension educators. OMalley said he had hoped to have two new Extension agents hired by now, but it took two months for the state to come up with a job description and posting for the jobs after the initial approval of the proposal. We are getting some applications so Im cautiously optimistic that well be able to offer someone a position by the end of the year, more likely in January, OMalley said. Shortly after OMalley submitted his proposal for the Extension agent hirings, the Cooperative Extension system decided not to force counties to share Extension educators in the county clusters. While the county groups would have an area director overseeing them, counties can have their agents work exclusively in-county, although counties would be allowed to create sharing arrangements, according to Craig Saxe, who started in July as the area Extension director serving La Crosse Countys cluster. The administration has listened The counties didnt want that (sharing arrangement), and a lot of the staff didnt think that was a good fit, said Saxe, who served as an Extension ag educator in Juneau County for about 20 years before taking on the area director role. Saxe also noted that the Extension hiring freeze is being lifted, with approvals in place to seek applicants for a first batch of 20, possibly including a Vernon County ag educator position that has been vacant for three years. The elimination of the sharing provision in the nEXT Generation plan apparently was not widely known OMalley and Green said they hadnt heard about the state doing away with the sharing requirement. Other nEXT Generation changes for Cooperative Extension include a new flat rate model for cost sharing, which will involve doing away with the percentage cost share between the counties and state system. Instead, counties will pay the state a flat rate for an agent. That will be an advantage for counties who have highly educated and experienced Extension educators, such as Meehan-Strub and Green in La Crosse County, both of whom are considered tenured faculty. Meehan-Strub wont be around for long, however. She has been with La Crosse County for 32 years and has been an Extension educator for 41 years, but shes retiring at the end of the year, enticed by a retirement incentive package that will cut a lot of the tenured faculty out of the Extension system. New agents hired under the nEXT Generation changes wont be faculty positions, but academic staff posts, which dont require a masters degree and dont carry the kind of job security as a tenured faculty job. OMalley said thats going to make it difficult to attract Extension educators of the quality the county has had. Hiring an experienced Extension agent from another Wisconsin county to come to La Crosse County would involve the new hire giving up tenure a drawback even when La Crosse County is offering a salary that could go from $65,000 to close to $70,000 for highly qualified applicants. Although the Extension positions the county will be filling now only require bachelors degrees, OMalley pushed hard to get masters degree preferred included in the job posting in hopes of attracting highly qualified candidates, but the state wouldnt allow any mention of the salary range. I just think theyre depleting the pool of who they could get to come here, OMalley said. We ought to be attractive. We think people should want to come here from across the state. LONDON, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- This report provides forecast and analysis of the global alcoholic beverages market. It provides historical data of 2015 along with estimated data of 2017, and forecast data up to 2025 in terms of revenue (US$ Mn). The report also includes macroeconomic indicators along with an outlook on alcoholic beverages for global market. It includes drivers and restraints of the global alcoholic beverages market and their impact on each region during the forecast period. The report also comprises the study of current issues with consumers and opportunities for alcoholic beverages products. It also includes value chain analysis. In order to provide users of this report with comprehensive view of the market, we have included detailed competitiveness analysis and market key players and strategy overview. Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5143294 The dashboard provides detailed comparison of alcoholic beverages manufacturers on parameters such as total revenue, product offerings, and key strategy. The study encompasses market attractiveness analysis by diaper type and region. A number of primary and secondary sources were consulted during the course of the study. Secondary sources include Factiva, and Hoover's, and company annual reports and publications. Global Alcoholic Beverages Market: Market Segmentation The report includes alcoholic beverages market company profiles and the revenue generated from the companies across North America, Latin America, Europe, APAC and MEA. By Product Type, the global alcoholic beverages market can be segmented into beer, spirits, wine, and others. By sales channel, the global alcoholic beverages market is segmented into Modern Trade, Specialty Stores, Convenience Stores, Commercial, Hotels/Restaurants/Bars, Online Retailers, and Other Retailing Formats. By packaging type the market has been segmented as glass bottles, tins, plastic bottles and others. For the calculation of revenue collection of average regional prices were obtained through primary quotes from numerous alcoholic beverages manufacturers, retailers and distributors. All key end users have been considered and potential applications have been estimated on the basis of secondary sources and feedback from primary respondents. Country demand patterns have been considered while estimating the market for various end users of alcoholic beverages in the different regions. Top-down approach has been used to estimate the alcoholic beverages market by countries. Global market numbers by product type has been derived using the bottom-up approach, which is cumulative of each country's demand. Company-level market share has been derived on the basis of alcoholic beverages penetration. The market has been forecast based on constant currency rates. Global Alcoholic Beverages Market: Competitive Analysis The report provides detailed competitive and company profiles of key participants operating in the global market. Some of the major companies operating in the Global Alcoholic beverages market are Carlsberg A/S, Heineken Holding N.V., Diageo Plc., Asahi Group Holdings Ltd., Suntory Holdings Ltd., Halewood International Holdings PLC, Brown-Forman Corporation, Bacardi Limited, Craft Brew Alliance, Inc., Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Pty Ltd, Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV, Constellation Brands, Inc., United Breweries Limited, The Boston Beer Company, Inc., Molson Coors Brewing Co., Pernod Ricard SA, Accolade Wines Holdings Australia Pty Limited, DGB(Pty)Ltd, The Wine Group LLC and Bronco Wine Company. The global alcoholic beverage market is segmented as follows: Global Alcoholic beverages market By Product Type Beer Spirits Wine Others Global Alcoholic beverages market By Packaging Glass Bottles Tins Plastic Bottles Others Global Alcoholic beverages market By Sales Channel Modern Trade Specialty Stores Convenience Stores Commercial Hotels/Restaurants/Bars Online Retailers Other Retailing Formats Global Alcoholic beverages market By Region North America Latin America Europe APAC MEA Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5143294 About Reportbuyer Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers https://www.reportbuyer.com For more information: Sarah Smith Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 208 816 85 48 Website: www.reportbuyer.com SOURCE ReportBuyer Related Links http://www.reportbuyer.com HOUSTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- alliantgroup, the nation's premier provider of specialty tax services, is proud to announce that it has been nominated for the Houston Business Journal's inaugural Corporate Philanthropy Awards. The firm has been nominated as a large company finalist for the number of volunteer hours served by employees. The Houston Business Journal's inaugural finalists are separated into two lists, one set that ranks companies by the number of volunteer hours served and the other by the amount of money donated to the United Way of Greater Houston. The Houston Business Journal will honor all companies on the listand reveal their rankingsat an awards ceremony on Wednesday, November 1. Within the past year, alliantgroup has invested in numerous philanthropic efforts for the benefit of the city of Houston and the state of Texas. Among the most notable endeavors include the firm's commitment to advancing STEM education in our public schools and universities. Within the last year, alliantgroup has held events to increase exposure to STEM education at an early age, such as the company's sponsorship of a Parker Elementary field trip to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. This fall, the firm also rolled out its new STEM scholarship program for high school students within the state of Texas. In addition to its investments in education, alliantgroup has done volunteer work for Habitat for Humanity, the Ronald McDonald House and Leukemia Texas. The company has also been heavily involved in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. "Our firm's philanthropic efforts have covered a diverse range of initiatives over the last year," said Kim Tardy, alliantgroup's Director of Talent. "From public education to children's welfare to our Hurricane Harvey relief efforts and work with Leukemia Texas, alliantgroup has invested in our city to create thriving communities across Houston." "It is a true honor to be nominated for this award," said Dhaval Jadav, alliantgroup CEO. "In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, I saw first-hand how adversity brought out the true character of our people. Our employees made a full-on commitment to helping those in need and in rebuilding our wonderful city. This nomination just reaffirms what I have always known about the quality of people here at alliantgroup." alliantgroup's mission is one of education and awareness. The firm exists to help industry organizations, U.S. businesses and their CPA advisors properly identify and claim the federal and state tax incentives designed for their benefit. Headquartered in Houston, alliantgroup has helped over 12,000 American businesses claim over $6 billion in tax savings. For more information on alliantgroup and the firm's ongoing community and charitable initiatives, please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. SOURCE alliantgroup Related Links https://www.alliantgroup.com PHOENIX, Aug. 31, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Alpine 4 Technologies Ltd. (OTCQB: ALPP), a technology driven holding company, announced today that its subsidiary ALTIA has reached an agreement with the Future Automotive Group, and their Future Ford of Sacramento and Future Ford of Roseville dealerships. This agreement utilizes the 6th Sense Auto platform for inventory management, customer retention and resale as an aftermarket connected car product. 6th Sense Auto is designed for the modern "connected car" and is dedicated to helping large dealerships like the Future Group improve their inventory management, engine diagnostics, service maintenance and personalized customer support services through wireless, cloud-based software. About Future Auto Group The Future Automotive Group has eight dealerships throughout Sacramento, CA, Roseville, CA, Concord, CA and Fresno CA. About Alpine 4 Technologies Ltd. Alpine 4 is a publicly held enterprise with business related endeavors in Automotive Technologies, Electronics Manufacturing, Software and Energy Services. Four principles at the core of our business are: Synergy. Innovation. Drive. Excellence. At Alpine 4, we believe synergistic innovation drives excellence. By anchoring these words to our combined experience and capabilities, we are able to aggressively pursue opportunities within and across vertical markets. We deliver solutions that not only drive industry standards, but increase value for our shareholders. Contact: Charlie Winters or Ian Kantrowitz, Director of Investor Relations [email protected] [email protected] www.alpine4.com www.6sa-altia.com Forward-Looking Statements: The information disclosed in this press release is made as of the date hereof and reflects Alpine 4 most current assessment of its historical financial performance. Actual financial results filed with the SEC may differ from those contained herein due to timing delays between the date of this release and confirmation of final audit results. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements including, without limitation, the risks, uncertainties, including the uncertainties surrounding the current market volatility, and other factors the Company identifies from time to time in its filings with the SEC. Although Alpine 4 believes that the assumptions on which these forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, any of those assumptions could prove to be inaccurate and, as a result, the forward-looking statements based on those assumptions also could be incorrect. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are made as of the date hereof, and Alpine 4 disclaims any intention or obligation to update the forward-looking statements for subsequent events. SOURCE Alpine 4 Technologies Ltd. Related Links http://www.alpine4.com "Luxury villa rentals are a key part of the multigenerational travel trend, which has accelerated in recent years and is now a recognized trend in our region," says Erin Romano, a longtime Positano resident who manages guest services for Carrington Italia. "Private villas are a great way to accommodate family members across the entire age spectrum, spanning two, three and even four generations." Romano says luxury villas can accommodate just about any size family, and create a home away from home" environment that offers privacy, comfort and the experience of living like a local. However, desirable properties on the Amalfi Coast are booked as much as a year in advance, according to Romano. Finding the right villa to suit everyone's needs and desires is important to arranging a perfect vacation and it requires advance planning. "We work closely with our guests to help them find the perfect villa for their needs, and personally assist in the planning of their Italy experience, but it's very difficult to accommodate last-minute travel," says Romano. "Carrington Italia offers a carefully curated portfolio of private properties in a wide range of price points, and they are all in great demand. The time for high-season bookings in 2018 is right now." Romano says a 10-bedroom villa can accommodate up to 20 people, but there are properties suited to family groups of any size. In addition to size, other variables include location, amenities and individual preferences for touring and activities. Options range from boat trips to nearby islands and touring ancient sites to strolling neighboring villages, shopping for local specialties and enjoying the views, culture, cuisine and people. For the active-minded, there's kayaking, windsurfing and trail hiking, to mention a few. For foodies, there are cooking classes and wine tours. Carrington Italia offers a spectacular selection of ocean-view villas ranging from fully converted medieval watchtowers and fortresses, to magnificently restored 18th century residences and lavish moderns nestled into cliffs, according to Romano. Details such as pools, private docks and proximity to family-friendly beaches may be key in making a decision. Configuration of the villa and sleeping arrangements are always important considerations, as are the number and ages of children in the group. The choices, she says, are plentiful, but they all must be booked far in advance. "Often, there are subtle distinctions that can make a big difference to the success of your trip," says Romano. "Important details may include the distance from the street level to the villa, whether the villa has stairs or an elevator, and getting around the neighborhood either by foot, bus, taxi or ferry." According to Romano, whatever your family's preferences may be, a custom-tailored villa vacation on the Amalfi Coast offers a wide range of options for an unforgettable trip. She says, "If 2018 is the year for your family's once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Amalfi Coast, now is the time to plan your vacation and choose the perfect villa." Carrington Italia creates tailor-made Italian experiences through its network of longstanding personal relationships and personally-curated luxury villas along Italy's Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula. Leveraging its local presence in Positano, Carrington Italia's onsite bilingual team provides local expertise and concierge services and assists their guests in experiencing the region in more personal and authentic ways. The Carrington Companies Carrington is a holding company whose primary businesses include asset management, mortgages, real estate transactions and real estate logistics. Collectively, the businesses are vertically and horizontally integrated, and provide a broad range of real estate services encompassing nearly all aspects of single family residential real estate transactions in the United States. Carrington's international presence includes operations in the United Kingdom and Italy. To read more visit: www.carringtonhc.com. Through its collective associates made up of Carrington leaders and employees, the company's nonprofit organization, Carrington Charitable Foundation, contributes to the community through causes that reflect the interests of Carrington Associates. For more information about Carrington Charitable Foundation, and the organizations and programs it supports through specific fundraising efforts, please visit: carringtoncf.org. Media Contact Patty Sullivan 866.289.4147 [email protected] SOURCE Carrington Italia Related Links https://www.carringtonitalia.com "Employees are central to our success at Anaplan," said Frank Calderoni, President and CEO of Anaplan. "As we continue to grow and scale to meet customer demand for our platform, it was important to find a seasoned leader like Marilyn who has a passion for what we do and the experience needed to drive our people strategy to new heights." Before joining Anaplan, Miller served at CPO at Alfresco Software, where she led the global HR team and ensured that the organization was prepared for the future. Prior to that, Miller held leadership positions at Quotient Technology, URS/AECOM, BMC Software, and Cisco Systems Inc. "I'm incredibly delighted to join the Anaplan team to continue building an organization that inspires customers and partners to join the age of connected planning," Miller said. "I'm thrilled to lead the people function at such a fast-growing and exciting company." About Anaplan Anaplan is driving a new age of connected planning. Large and fast-growing organizations use Anaplan's cloud platform in every business function to make informed decisions and drive faster, more effective planning processes. Anaplan also provides support, training, and planning transformation advisory services. Anaplan is a privately held company based in San Francisco with 16 offices and over 150 expert partners worldwide. To learn more, visit anaplan.com. SOURCE Anaplan Related Links http://www.anaplan.com CHICAGO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicago-based Argo Consulting, a leading global operations improvement consulting firm, today unveiled a new website and logo design as part of its rebranding efforts. The rebrand showcases Argo's core differentiating point, an engagement approach that goes beyond PowerPoint and takes its team deep into the trenches with its clients. "We're not a typical consulting firm the relationship doesn't end when we deliver the strategy," said Argo CEO Fernando Assens. "Our team members come from the industries they're now advising, and they aren't afraid to roll up their sleeves and get down to work with our clients whether that's in a factory or a refinery or a maintenance facility. This rebrand captures that spirit." Argo's experienced consultants are experts in helping companies improve their operations and their bottom lines. With a presence in more than 20 countries, the firm specializes in private equity, oil and gas, chemical, transportation, and manufacturing industries. Follow Argo on Twitter @Argo_Ops Follow Argo on LinkedIn About Argo Consulting Argo is a global operations consulting company dedicated to implementing lasting performance improvements with offices in Chicago, Houston, Toronto, Calgary, and Munich and an active presence in more than 20 countries. Specialties include: enterprise asset management, operational performance, supply chain optimization, product value management/value engineering, operations due diligence, operational strategy deployment. Learn more at www.argoconsulting.com. SOURCE Argo Consulting Related Links http://www.argoconsulting.com WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8199531-afge-staff-the-va/ When: 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. ET, Tuesday, October 17 What: The VA offers veterans the best health care available in the country, and it's in danger of being ripped away from them. With legislation passed and pending on Capitol Hill, more than 49,000 vacancies plaguing medical centers nationwide, and with 1,700 veterans service representatives being told their jobs are in peril the veterans' health care that was promised is on the verge of being dismantled and sold to the lowest bidder. The American Federation of Government Employees, which represents 250,000 workers at the Department of Veterans Affairs, is hosting a call this Tuesday to update the public on efforts to defend the only health care system tailored to the unique needs of our nation's veterans. Listeners will get updates on rallies being held across the country, lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill, and what's still expected to come. To learn more about the threat of privatizing the VA, please visit www.afge.org/VACall to find reports, video footage, and more. Who: AFGE National President J. David Cox Sr., AFGE Legislative Director Tom Kahn, and VoteVets Director of Government Relations Will Fischer. Where: Please RSVP at www.afge.org/rsvp The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union, representing 700,000 workers in the federal government and the government of the District of Columbia. AFGE also represents 250,000 VA employees. For the latest AFGE news and information, visit the AFGE Media Center. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. SOURCE American Federation of Government Employees IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- AutoGravity, a FinTech pioneer on a mission to transform car financing by harnessing the power of the smartphone, today announced the expansion of its dealer network development program with the appointment of Chuck Schofield as Vice President of Dealer Sales. Schofield joins Aleks Bogoeski, Co-Founder and Vice President of Dealer Sales, whose team has grown the AutoGravity dealer network to nearly 2,000 dealerships, including many of the top dealer groups in the country. "From a standing start in 2016, AutoGravity is proud to have built strong partnerships with some of the largest dealer groups in America," said Andy Hinrichs, CEO of AutoGravity. "Led by Aleks Bogoeski, our dealer development team has built a dealer network that spans thousands of franchises across the country. With over two decades of sales experience, Chuck will be an excellent complement to our network development efforts, deepening our relationships with our existing partners and accelerating the growth of our dealer group portfolio." Prior to joining AutoGravity, Schofield served as Western Region Senior Manager for Mercedes-Benz Financial Services where he was responsible for managing the U.S. finance products and services sales unit, as well as cultivating and maintaining relationships with Mercedes-Benz and smart dealership personnel. During his time at Mercedes-Benz Financial Services he was consistently recognized for top sales performance and his role as a leader. Previously, he worked for Chrysler Financial as the Director of Business Vehicle Finance and he began his career at Daimler Truck Financial. "For many months, every dealership I've visited has been buzzing with digitally savvy car buyers searching for monthly payments on their smartphones, many of whom were using AutoGravity," said Schofield. "AutoGravity has taken a distinctly thoughtful approach, working in partnership with dealers to help them realize the full potential of cutting edge smartphone technology and serve their customers anytime and anywhere they want. Dealers love it, which is what makes me so excited to join AutoGravity at a time of great innovation in the vehicle buying journey." ABOUT AUTOGRAVITY AutoGravity is revolutionizing the way people buy and finance cars. Harnessing the power of the smartphone, AutoGravity technology provides a new level of transparency, convenience and speed to the car shopping and financing process. AutoGravity partners with the world's leading banks and financial services companies to give car buyers direct control over their car financing options while connecting them to a nationwide network of trusted car dealerships. Available on iOS, Android and Web, AutoGravity empowers car buyers with up to four binding offers in minutes. Based in Irvine, California, AutoGravity was founded by an international team of digital natives and auto industry veterans. For more information on AutoGravity, please visit www.autogravity.com and follow @AutoGravity on Twitter. SOURCE AutoGravity Related Links https://www.autogravity.com SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Genesys (www.genesys.com), the global leader in omnichannel customer experience and contact center solutions, is hosting free, 60-minute global webinars on Oct. 25-26 to detail the emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) trends for customer experience. Featured analyst Kate Leggett of Forrester will explain how organizations can practically apply an AI strategy that blends with human assistance to improve the entire customer journey. This webinar outlines the key use cases for how businesses can use AI today to enhance the customer experience, and it explores the critical role human touch plays in the process. Attendees will learn about Kate, the new customer experience AI from Genesys, and how companies can leverage their existing infrastructure to connect with AI platforms. What: Don't Put Your Customer Experience in Jeopardy! See how Blended AI Enhances the Power of Human Touch Businesses are focusing more than ever on improving operations and customer experience through automation across multiple departments, including marketing, customer care and digital commerce. While automation is a major game changer, it does not magically fix all issues. Blending automation with AI and the human touch delivers the most efficient and satisfying customer experiences. During this webinar, attendees will have an opportunity to engage with presenters in a Jeopardy!* style game to challenge themselves to beat the AI experts. Attendees will hear about best practices, key use cases and outcomes and walk away with a better understanding about how they can get started with an AI strategy to improve customer experience. Who: Participants in the webinar include: Kate Leggett, vice president and principal analyst, Forrester Christopher Connolly , vice president, Solution Strategy, Genesys , vice president, Solution Strategy, Genesys Dipali Mehta , product marketing director, Genesys Why: Join this webinar to learn how to: Incorporate human-enabled AI into your existing operations Evaluate the cost effectiveness of AI Measure success and key use cases for improved customer experience When: Wednesday, Oct. 25 60 minutes North America: 11 a.m. PT / 2 p.m. ET Latin America: 1p.m. CDT / 3 p.m. BRT Thursday, Oct. 26 60 minutes Europe, Middle East & Africa: 2 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. CEST Asia-Pacific: 11 a.m. SGT / 1 p.m. AEST How: Register now to attend this live webinar and/or receive a post-event recording. *Jeopardy! is a popular American game show with a twistthe answers are given first and then the contestants supply the questions. About Genesys Genesys powers more than 25 billion of the world's best customer experiences each year. Our success comes from connecting employee and customer conversations on any channel, every day. Over 10,000 companies in more than 100 countries trust our #1 customer experience platform to drive great business outcomes and create lasting relationships. Combining the best of technology and human ingenuity, we build solutions that mirror natural communication and work the way you think. Our industry-leading solutions foster true omnichannel engagement because they perform equally well across channels, on-premise and in the cloud. Experience communication as it should be: fluid, instinctive and profoundly empowering. Visit genesys.com on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and the Genesys blog. All Rights reserved. Genesys is a registered trademarks of Genesys. The Genesys Logo, Blended AI, and Kate are trademarks of Genesys. Jeopardy! is a registered Trademark of Jeopardy Productions, Inc. All other company names and logos may be registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies. Contacts: Rachel Faulkner Senior Manager, PR Genesys [email protected] +1 317-715-8109 Lisa Hawes Sterling Communications [email protected] +1 408-395-5500 SOURCE Genesys Related Links http://www.genesys.com WHIPPANY, N.J., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Bayer today announced the appointment of Brenda L. Raphael as Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Therapeutics Business Unit of Consumer Health Commercial Operations North America, effective October 30, 2017. Brenda Raphael, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Therapeutics Business Unit for Bayer Consumer Health "Brenda has more than 20 years of experience in leading successful billion-dollar, consumer-focused brands," said Natalie Bartner, President of North America Consumer Health, Consumer Health Division, Bayer. "Her strengths in understanding customers, marketing and innovation will lead the Therapeutics Business Unit to continue developing self-care solutions that help people live healthier lives." Ms. Raphael joins Bayer from Pfizer, Inc., where she most recently held the position of General Manager for U.S. Brands in Pharma at the company's New York City offices. She also previously held various senior positions at the Coca-Cola Company and Procter & Gamble. With experience that spans pharmaceuticals and consumer products, Ms. Raphael delivered significant financial gains to the businesses, and insight-driven multi-channel marketing to consumers. Ms. Raphael holds a Masters of Business Administration degree from the Darden Graduate School of Business at the University of Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University in New York. Ms. Raphael will report to Natalie Bartner, and will be a member of the Consumer Health North America Leadership Team. She will be based in Whippany, New Jersey, U.S. Bayer: Science For A Better Life Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the Life Science fields of health care and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life. At the same time, the Group aims to create value through innovation, growth and high earning power. Bayer is committed to the principles of sustainable development and to its social and ethical responsibilities as a corporate citizen. In fiscal 2016, the Group employed around 115,200 people and had sales of EUR 46.8 billion. Capital expenditures amounted to EUR 2.6 billion, R&D expenses to EUR 4.7 billion. These figures include those for the high-tech polymers business, which was floated on the stock market as an independent company named Covestro on October 6, 2015. For more information, go to www.bayer.com. Bayer and the Bayer Cross are registered trademarks of Bayer. Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer Group or subgroup management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer's public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments. Media Contact : Christopher Loder External Communications Tel. (862) 404 7437 E-mail: [email protected] SOURCE Bayer Related Links http://www.bayer.us A sand mining company with rights to thousands of acres in southeast Minnesota is asking state regulators to lift environmental review requirements. The Minnesota Environmental Quality Board ruled in 2013 that Minnesota Sands must complete a comprehensive environmental impact study before moving ahead on proposed frac sand mines on about 615 acres in Fillmore, Houston and Winona counties that the board determined were linked and would have cumulative environmental impacts on the same geographic area. Minnesota Sands, which is suing to overturn Winona Countys frac mining ban, now says its plans are limited to a 50-acre mine in Fillmore County and is asking the EQB to consider that a stand-alone project. The 14-member board is scheduled to consider the request Wednesday to terminate a lengthy multi-site environmental impact statement in favor of a less detailed environmental assessment of the single site. EQB staff are recommending approval. Johanna Rupprecht is a policy organizer with the Land Stewardship Project, which has fought the industry in southeast Minnesota. She says Minnesota Sands is seeking to skirt the rules and if the request is granted would be able to pursue piecemeal approval of its project, requesting permits for each site, so that the full impacts of the whole operation are never studied or understood. In its court filings, Minnesota Sands claims to have leases on more than 3,700 acres of land with frac sand deposits that could be worth more than $6 billion at current market prices. State law requires an Environmental Assessment Worksheet be completed for any silica sand project over 20 acres and a more thorough Environmental Impact Statement, which can take more than a year, for projects of more than 160 acres. Will Seuffert, executive director of the EQB, said the board would evaluate any future proposals from Minnesota Sands as possible phased actions that could trigger an EIS if the total size exceeds 160 acres. The 'smell test' Minnesota Sands contracted with the EQB to perform the environmental study, which would have been the first time the agency carried out an EIS for a silica sand project. Last year the board suspended work after saying in three years it had yet to receive any information from the company. We never received any information about the project about the sites, where they were located, what the mine plan was, Seuffert said. We had nothing to study. In June, Minnesota Sands asked the EQB to close out the review, saying its current mining plan is limited to a single 56-acre site west of Rushford. In a letter to the board, company president Richard Frick said market conditions no longer support mining in Houston County and that the Winona County ban, adopted in November, has rendered useless its mining leases and a proposed rail loading site. Minnesota Sands sued the county in April claiming the ordinance violates its constitutional rights by singling out sand used for industrial purposes while permitting sand to be mined for construction uses. The county has sought to dismiss the case, arguing Minnesota Sands does not have any inherent right to mine its land. Even if the ordinance were overturned, the county says, the company would still need a conditional use permit, which may be denied for reasons relating to public health, safety and general welfare. Rupprecht notes that Minnesota Sands is asking the EQB to believe it has no plans to mine in Winona County even as it is suing for the right to mine there and portraying itself as a company with massive, multi-county interests. It doesnt pass any kind of smell test, Rupprecht said. Its not clear how Minnesota Sands plans to process or transport sand from the Fillmore County site. According to court documents, its business plan involves a 304-acre site along the Canadian Pacific rail line in Winona County that cannot be used for industrial sand under the current ordinance. Frick did not respond to requests for comment. He is scheduled to testify before the board Wednesday. On Tuesday the company removed images and content from its website touting the quality and quantity of its sand and providing background on its legal case against the county. The site now contains a two-sentence description of the company with contact information for a Twin Cities public relations firm. Consultant Mike Zipko said in an email the company is making some changes to the content on its website. The two companies are working with a network of highly respected physicians to offer the Baylis Education Hands-On Transseptal Course. This hands-on training program was launched in response to the growing need for minimally invasive procedures that require access to the left side of the heart. For example, a transseptal puncture through the septum is a standard procedure for accessing the left atrium. "There has been a huge growth in left-side structural procedures which all require very precise transseptal access, yet many interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons haven't had the opportunity to learn transseptal techniques," says instructor Dr. Brijeshwar Maini, interventional cardiologist and regional medical director of transcatheter therapies for Tenet Healthcare's Florida Region. "Our first course got very positive feedback from physicians. They recognize the importance in gaining experience with the best available tools to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients." Interventional cardiologists specialized physicians who provide catheter-based treatment of various heart diseases have previously used a sharp mechanical needle to access the left side of the heart, which has been demonstrated in comparative clinical studies to be more time-consuming and have a higher risk of complications, such as cardiac tamponade, relative to using a radiofrequency needle.i Procedural complications may result in longer hospital stays and higher per-patient costs. Published studies have found that the Baylis Radiofrequency NRG Transseptal Needle Transseptal RF solution, which uses a short and highly focused RF energy pulse, allows a puncture that is more predictable and has the potential to minimize complications.ii The combination of growing medical need coupled with the availability of smaller and more sophisticated cardiac implants is making catheter-based procedures more common. The new educational course offered by Baylis and Siemens Healthineers provides interventional cardiologists and surgeons with the skills they need to use more high-tech tools that provide greater precision and less risk in accessing the left atrium. The tools in this course include Baylis' NRG Transseptal Needle and Siemens Healthineers ACUSON SC2000 PRIME ultrasound system. "Patients suffering with atrial fibrillation or structural heart disease traditionally had to undergo high-risk open-heart surgeries," says Kris Shah, President of Baylis Medical. "Today, state-of-the-art technologies like the Baylis RF Transseptal solution enable targeted and precise access to the left atrium. Such minimally invasive procedures typically result in lower risk to the patient, less trauma and a faster recovery." Interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons are also increasingly relying on visualization tools to accurately guide catheters and implants within the beating heart. "We are pleased to join with Baylis Medical in co-sponsoring training in such a rapidly growing medical segment where precise guidance is key," says Peter Pellerito, Senior Vice President, Ultrasound North America, Siemens Healthineers. "Siemens Healthineers ACUSON SC2000 PRIME TEE and ICE tools offer ultrasound images that help make complex transseptal structural heart procedures straightforward. Physicians attending the course are able to use tools such as real-time septal guidance for more precise septal crossing and better outcomes. As more physicians gain experience in interpreting these images, we could see these innovative procedures replacing the majority of open-heart surgeries in the years ahead." Baylis and Siemens Healthineers sponsored the first joint course this past spring in Atlanta, GA. Based on positive feedback from participants, the companies partnered to offer the course in other U.S. cities. About Baylis Medical Company Baylis Medical develops and markets high-technology medical devices used in the fields of interventional cardiology, interventional radiology, and spinal procedures. Our vision is to develop and market innovative medical therapies while improving the lives of people around the world. The company has offices in Montreal and Toronto (Canada), Boston (U.S.), London (U.K.) and Munich (Germany). For more information, visit www.baylismedical.com. About Siemens Healthineers Siemens Healthineers is the separately managed healthcare business of Siemens AG enabling healthcare providers worldwide to meet their current challenges and to excel in their respective environments. A leader in medical technology, Siemens Healthineers is constantly innovating its portfolio of products and services in its core areas of diagnostic and therapeutic imaging and in laboratory diagnostics and molecular medicine. Siemens Healthineers is also actively developing its digital health services and enterprise services. To help customers succeed in today's dynamic healthcare marketplace, Siemens Healthineers is championing new business models that maximize opportunity and minimize risk for healthcare providers. In fiscal 2016, which ended on September 30, 2016, Siemens Healthineers generated revenue of 13.5 billion and profit of over 2.3 billion and has about 46,000 employees worldwide. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com/healthineers. PRM00255 EN J-1,2,3 V-1 Baylis Medical Company Inc., 2017. CAUTION: Federal Law (USA) restricts the use of these devices to or by the order of a physician. Before use, consult product labels and Instructions for Use for Indications for Use, Contraindications, Warnings, Precautions, Adverse Events and Directions for Use. The Baylis Medical logo and NRG are trademarks or registered trademarks of Baylis Medical Company Inc. in the USA and/or other countries. Other trademarks are property of their respective owners. References: _________________________________________ i Hsu JC, Badhwar N, Gerstenfeld EP, Lee RJ, Mandyam MC, Dewland TA, Imburgia KE, Hoffmayer KS, Vedantham V, Lee BK, Tseng ZH, Scheinman MM, Olgin JE, Marcus GM. Randomized trial of conventional transseptal needle versus radiofrequency energy needle puncture for left atrial access (the TRAVERSE-LA study). J Am Heart Assoc. 2013 Sep 17;2(5): e000428. Winkle RA, Mead RH, Engel G, Patrawala RA. The use of a radiofrequency needle improves the safety and efficacy of transseptal puncture for atrial fibrillation ablation. Heart Rhythm. 2011 Sep;8(9):1411-5. ii Ibid SOURCE Baylis Medical NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Belardi/Ostroy will change its name to Belardi Wong, reflecting the growth and innovation of the integrated marketing and creative solutions firm. To accurately represent their longstanding partnership, Donna Belardi, President, and Polly Wong, Managing Partner, Strategic/ E-Commerce/Creative Services, are excited to announce the rebrand just in time for the company's 20th anniversary. Polly Wong joined Belardi/Ostroy in 2005 after almost 10 years on the brand side at Eddie Bauer and Williams-Sonoma Inc. Over the last decade, she has been critical in expanding the company from two to five divisions with more than 200 retail clients. The company name change reflects the transformation of the company as a trusted advisor and partner to retailers and investors across the country, providing strategic insight and best-in-class marketing solutions. In addition, Angela Caltagirone, former Williams-Sonoma Inc. executive, will join Belardi Wong in January 2018 as EVP Digital and CRM Services to continue the company's evolution. Holding 20+ years of experience, Caltagirone is an expert in digital marketing, life stage targeting, personalization, and marketing growth opportunities that drive brand awareness through conversion. She brings change management and e-commerce leadership to further support Belardi Wong's clients. In the words of one client, Paul Lazorisak, Vice President, CRM and Customer Analytics for Talbots: "Long term, value-added partnerships are simply unicorns in today's retail environment. Many service firms fail to anticipate their clients' needs or innovate beyond their core value proposition; Belardi Wong refuses to dwell in the status quo. Because of this, I have trusted and valued our partnership for over six years (and at two retailers) and come to lean on the team's intelligence, strategy and everyday marketing tactics." New Customer Acquisition and Data Management Services continue to be crucial aspects of the business, and the expansion of Digital Services completes the firm's portfolio providing clients with resources and support at every stage of the customer journey. Belardi reflects, "Our team is made up of insightful and amazingly talented individuals. We strive to deliver thought-partnership as we continue to push direct and digital marketing forward." Belardi Wong's relentless focus on driving revenue, profit and file growth has propelled the company forward as a nationally renowned integrated and creative solutions firm. With expanded Digital Services and its rebranding, Belardi Wong is taking a giant leap forward as the industry-leader. About Belardi Wong Belardi Wong is a leading full-service marketing and creative firm founded in 1997 which provides omni-channel solutions for commercial and non-profit clients, including Williams-Sonoma Inc., J. Crew, American Girl, Restoration Hardware, Sundance, New Balance, Lucky Brand, CB2, J. Jill, Petco, Distinctive Apparel, Cornerstone Brands, Talbots, Harriet Carter, Harry & David, Blue Apron, Bluestem Brands, Vermont Country Store, Coldwater Creek, Hammacher Schlemmer, New York University, American Kidney Fund, NAACP, EMILY's List, and Human Rights Watch. For more information, visit www.belardiwong.com. Media contact: Bethany Christie Marketing Manager [email protected] 212-381-1744 SOURCE Belardi/Ostroy Related Links http://www.belardiostroy.com This euphoric pint is filled with more than just chunks and swirls it's a small part of Ben & Jerry's larger effort to advance issues of social and economic justice. "We believe that when people come together, particularity in this time of racial, economic and political divisions, we can create a more just, equitable, and yes, even a little bit sweeter world," said Ben & Jerry's CEO Jostein Solheim. From LGBTQ rights and marriage equality, to Occupy Wall Street, Ben & Jerry's has used the power of its business to motivate fans and promote policies that advance the cause of social justice. This commitment is as strong today as it has ever been. As part of that commitment, Ben & Jerry's will donate a portion of the sales of One Sweet World to support those working at the intersection of economic and racial justice. One Sweet World is a Limited Batch flavorso get it while you can! Use the Ben & Jerry's flavor locator to find it at a store near you. One Sweet World is also available at participating Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shops, and at Ben & Jerry's online store at www.store.benjerry.com. MSRP is $4.89. For more information on One Sweet World, visit Benjerry.com/onesweetworld. About Ben & Jerry's As an aspiring social justice company, Ben & Jerry's believes in a greater calling than simply making a profit for selling its goods. The company produces a wide variety of super-premium ice cream, yogurt and sorbet using high-quality ingredients. Ben & Jerry's incorporates its vision of Linked Prosperity into its business practices in a number of ways, including a focus on values-led sourcing. In 2015 the company completed its transition to using entirely non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) ingredients by source as well as to fully source Fairtrade-certified ingredients wherever possible, which benefits farmers in developing countries. Ben and Jerry's products are distributed in 35 countries in supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, franchise Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shops, restaurants and other venues. Ben & Jerry's, a Vermont corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Unilever, operates its business on a three-part Mission Statement emphasizing product quality, economic reward and a commitment to the community. Ben & Jerry's became a certified B Corp (Benefit Corporation) in 2012. The Ben & Jerry's Foundation's employee-led grant programs totaled $2.5MM in 2016 to support grassroots organizing for social and environmental justice around the country. For the inside scoop on Ben & Jerry's visit www.benjerry.com. SOURCE Ben & Jerry's Related Links http://www.benjerry.com MILFORD, Conn., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Bernoulli Health, the developer of the advanced Bernoulli One clinical surveillance, medical device integration (MDI), and real-time data analytics platform, announced today that it is now selling its solutions in Canada. With more than 1,200 installed systems in the U.S., the expansion into Canada is another indicator of the positive trajectory of the company's growth. "Given the growing interest we have seen from Canadian hospitals and health systems regarding connectivity and clinical surveillance, our expansion into the Canadian market is a natural one," said Janet Dillione, CEO of Bernoulli Health. "Our solutions have proven to enhance clinical outcomes in hospitals across the U.S., and we are excited to bring these innovative technologies to Canadian health systems to help them improve patient safety." The Bernoulli One software solution extends continuous monitoring and clinical surveillance for all departments throughout a hospital or health system. The solution allows caregivers to surveil multiple patients, patient data (e.g., vitals), and device data (e.g., ventilator settings) from many sources (i.e., ventilators, pulse oximeters, physiologic monitors, etc.) at a centralized location or via mobile alarm notifications. Beyond basic monitoring where the system simply passes alarm information, Bernoulli uses multi-variate rules to correlate real-time and retrospective data to create clinically-actionable early warning alerts. Bernoulli One detects deteriorating patient conditions and enables caregivers to intervene before a patient's health is compromised. One Bernoulli user and Director of Respiratory Care at a large U.S.-based health system shared this about Bernoulli One, "What we are seeing is that if a patient starts to degrade from a pulmonary standpoint, our clinical staff is able to respond and intervene much faster than before." Other key components of the Bernoulli One platform are extensive device connectivity (i.e. medical device integration) and real-time alarm and data management. One hospital's Director of Respiratory Care said that with Bernoulli they are "able to safety monitor patients across the entire facility without the constant distraction and fatigue of false alarms." The synthesis of clinical surveillance and real-time actionable information means caregivers have more useful information for clinical decision support. This leads to quicker patient response times, reduced transfers and length of stay, and reduced costs. Bernoulli Health is participating at the HealthAchieve conference in Toronto, ON, November 6-7, 2017. Local Bernoulli representatives will be onsite (booth #1310) to demonstrate the Bernoulli One platform including: Clinical Surveillance and Monitoring Medical Device Integration (MDI) Real-Time Data Analytics One can schedule meetings with a Bernoulli representative at HealthAchieve by emailing, [email protected]. About Bernoulli Health The mission of Bernoulli Health is to improve patient safety in real time. Since 1989, Bernoulli has developed solutions including the all-inclusive Bernoulli One platform. A single solution for continuous patient health monitoring and clinical surveillance, medical device integration, and real-time data analytics, there are no other solutions as advanced as Bernoulli One. The Bernoulli software helps save patient lives as it continuously detects deteriorating patient conditions and notifies clinicians of potential events. This results in improved patient observation and provider workflows. Bernoulli has achieved FDA Class II clearance for use in both patient monitoring and secondary alarm management. Bernoulli headquarters are in Milford, CT. For more information visit www.BernoulliHealth.com, email [email protected], or call 800-337-9936. Media contact: Matt Schlossberg Amendola Communications for Bernoulli (630) 935-9136 [email protected] SOURCE Bernoulli Related Links http://www.bernoullihealth.com LAS VEGAS and CENTENNIAL, Colo., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Bigelow Aerospace and United Launch Alliance (ULA) are working together to launch a B330 expandable module on ULA's Vulcan launch vehicle. The launch would place a B330 outfitted module in Low Lunar Orbit by the end of 2022 to serve as a lunar depot. "We are excited to work with ULA on this lunar depot project," said Robert Bigelow, president of Bigelow Aerospace. "Our lunar depot plan is a strong complement to other plans intended to eventually put people on Mars. It will provide NASA and America with an exciting and financially practical success opportunity that can be accomplished in the short term. This lunar depot could be deployed easily by 2022 to support the nation's re-energized plans for returning to the Moon. "This commercial lunar depot would provide anchorage for significant lunar business development in addition to offering NASA and other governments the Moon as a new exciting location to conduct long-term exploration and astronaut training." The B330 would launch to Low Earth Orbit on a Vulcan 562 configuration rocket, the only commercial launch vehicle in development today with sufficient performance and a large enough payload fairing to carry the habitat. Once the B330 is in orbit, Bigelow Aerospace will outfit the habitat and demonstrate it is working properly. Once the B330 is fully operational, ULA's industry-unique distributed lift capability would be used to send the B330 to lunar orbit. Distributed lift would also utilize two more Vulcan ACES launches, each carrying 35 tons of cryogenic propellant to Low Earth Orbit. In LEO, all of the cryogenic propellant would be transferred to one of the Advanced Cryogenic Evolved Stages (ACES). The now full ACES would then rendezvous with the B330 and perform multiple maneuvers to deliver the B330 to its final position in Low Lunar Orbit. "We are so pleased to be able to continue our relationship with Bigelow Aerospace," said Tory Bruno, ULA's president and CEO. "The company is doing such tremendous work in the area of habitats for visiting, living and working off our planet and we are thrilled to be the ride that enables that reality." Bigelow Aerospace is a destination-oriented company with a focus on expandable systems for use in a variety of space applications. These NASA heritage systems provide for greater volume, safety, opportunity and economy than the aluminum alternatives. The B330 is a standalone commercial space station that can operate in Low Earth Orbit, cislunar space and beyond. A single B330 is comparable to one third of the current pressurized volume of the entire International Space Station. Bigelow Aerospace is developing two B330 commercial space station habitats that will be ready for launch any time after 2020. For more information on Bigelow Aerospace visit www.bigelowaerospace.com. Connect with Bigelow Aerospace at www.facebook.com/bigelowaerospace, www.twitter.com/BigelowSpace and www.instagram.com/bigelowspace. With more than a century of combined heritage, United Launch Alliance is the nation's most experienced and reliable launch service provider. ULA has successfully delivered 120 satellites to orbit that provide critical capabilities for troops in the field, aid meteorologists in tracking severe weather, enable personal device-based GPS navigation and unlock the mysteries of our solar system. For more information on ULA, visit the ULA website at www.ulalaunch.com, or call the ULA Launch Hotline at 1-877-ULA-4321 (852-4321). Join the conversation at www.facebook.com/ulalaunch, twitter.com/ulalaunch and instagram.com/ulalaunch. SOURCE United Launch Alliance Related Links http://www.ulalaunch.com LAKE WORTH, Fla., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Blockade Technologies, a custom technology company specializing in enterprise solutions announced the strategic partnership with Rebyc Security to provide enterprise offensive security services including Penetration Testing, Web Application Testing, Vulnerability Assessments and Phishing attempts. Together, Blockade and Rebyc recognize the increased cyber-attacks on individuals and enterprises. With Blockade leveraging Blockchain encryption to decentralize cloud-based data storage, and Rebyc's extensive suite of cybersecurity products, we are able to provide an increasingly high level of privacy and reliability that caretakers of critical sensitive data require in today's marketplace. Blockade will provide users with the highest level of encryption through Blockchain technology to combat cyberattacks including ransomware which is expected to reach $6 Billion in costs to victims by 2021. About Rebyc Security: Based in Charlotte, NC, Rebyc Security is a leader in cybersecurity consulting services. We are a team of information security experts who share our client's values and dedication to information security. We offer a comprehensive suite of offensive security consulting services including penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, social engineering and web application testing. Rebyc Security is able to work across multiple security platforms and industries to tailor our services to our client's requirements. About Blockade Technology: Blockade Technology is a custom technology company based in Lake Worth, Florida. Founded in 2016, Blockade Technology has designed and created enterprise business solutions to assist businesses with some of their most important needs today through secure document management, data storage and business process improvement. Blockade is currently developing a new Blockchain ecosystem that will address the known scalability issues with Bitcoin and Ethereum using a hybrid algorithm and Artificial Intelligence. If you would like more information about this topic, please contact (Ryan J Shaw) at 1-866-931-2515 or email at [email protected]. Related Files BLOCKADE Strategic Partnership Press Release October 2017.docx Related Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lm9WH6ziDOY SOURCE Blockade Technologies Related Links https://www.blockade.cloud "Customer Insights teams are the core of many enterprises today. Stakeholders rely on them to identify opportunities that drive business," says Mark Hammer, COO at Bloomfire. "Typically, these teams don't have a central location to manage these resources and make them accessible." "With Bloomfire, insights teams have a central place to store insights, manage curation of those insights, and deliver more value to their organization stakeholders," adds Hammer. "Bloomfire Insights Platform was purpose-built for insights teams." Bloomfire already works with some of the leading insights teams including brands such as Conagra Brands and Anthem Inc. Tim Miller, Senior Director of Shopper Insights at Conagra Brands, says the company chose Bloomfire because they "needed a way to share information and knowledge with agility and accuracy across the organization. Bloomfire made that possible in an intuitive way." Bloomfire Insights Platform combines an intuitive interface with a powerful artificial intelligence-driven search engine. Bloomfire uses artificial intelligence to deepen user engagement and save time through features such as automatically tagging content that is uploaded to the platform and by recommending content to users automatically based on what they are searching for. Some of the key benefits of the product include: Greater team alignment by providing teams self-serve access to the Insights they need to drive growth and innovation Consistency of shared information across the organization by having a central repository for research and insights Breaking departmental silos and allowing teams to collaborate and provide input on research The problem of knowledge sharing is big -- and expensive. According to McKinsey, employees spend about 20% of their day searching for the information they need to do their jobs. If a company of 500 people uses Bloomfire and cuts this time in half, they will save $2,750,000 a year in productivity gains -- simply by reducing the time spent searching for information. About Bloomfire We recognize that in most organizations, knowledge is siloed. Information and research sits unshared on servers and laptops across the organization and in the minds of the people that are a part of it. Bloomfire exists to organize knowledge and expertise and make it accessible and shareable with the people that need it most. The company's easy-to-use, cloud-based Knowledge Sharing Platform and Insights Platform are used by hundreds of thousands of employees at leading companies for empowering sales and marketing, customer service, insights, and employees. For more information or to schedule a demo, visit www.bloomfire.com. Connect with Bloomfire Blog Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Bloomfire is a trademark of Bloomfire, Inc. Other names mentioned herein are recognized to be the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. SOURCE Bloomfire Related Links http://www.bloomfire.com CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston Biomedical, Inc., an industry leader in the development of next-generation cancer therapeutics, today announced the appointment of Edgar Braendle, M.D., Ph.D., to Executive Vice President, Head of Research and Development and Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Braendle will lead the company's discovery research and clinical strategies. "I am truly excited to join Boston Biomedical at this important juncture to further advance the company's mission to develop innovative cancer therapies that address current treatment challenges of resistance, recurrence and metastasis," said Dr. Braendle. "I look forward to working with the company's talented teams to accelerate and expand the company's broad pipeline and guide its late-stage clinical studies." Dr. Braendle previously served as President and CEO of ARUP Laboratories, a national clinical and anatomic pathology reference laboratory. Prior to this, he spent more than a decade at Novartis Pharmaceutical Corporation, where he served as Senior Vice President and Global Head of Companion Diagnostics where he led the company's precision medicine approach, delivering complementary and companion diagnostics for Novartis Medicines. In an earlier role as Vice President, Global Head of Oncology Biologics, Dr. Braendle led the development of oncology biologics in early to late stages, successfully filing eight investigational new drug applications. Dr. Braendle joins an expanding leadership team, including Ms. Dee Mahoney, who was recently appointed as the company's Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. Ms. Mahoney brings more than 28 years of sales and marketing experience in the bio-pharmaceutical industry in roles ranging from field sales to executive commercial leadership. As Boston Biomedical's Chief Commercial Officer, Ms. Mahoney will lead the commercialization of the company's first-in-class cancer stemness inhibitors, cancer vaccine compounds and other oncology assets in development for the North American market. Prior to joining Boston Biomedical, Ms. Mahoney was Co-Founder and President of DMH BioPharm Advisors, a boutique management-consulting firm. In this role, Ms. Mahoney partnered with bio-pharmaceutical companies to maximize the effectiveness of commercial strategies and reduce the risk of regulatory non-compliance. Previously, Ms. Mahoney spent 20 years at Pfizer, culminating in the role of Senior Vice President and General Manager of Pfizer's U.S. Specialty Products Business Unit, where she was responsible for the commercial operations and a $2.5 billion portfolio of oncology, anti-infective, HIV, ophthalmology and endocrine care products. Dr. Braendle and Ms. Mahoney will report to Patricia S. Andrews, Chief Executive Officer. "We are delighted to have Edgar and Dee join the Boston Biomedical leadership team. Their deep experience in creating and leading highly successful organizations will be of great value to us as we build our research and development platform and commercial capabilities to drive advancement of our novel assets," said Ms. Andrews. About Boston Biomedical, Inc. Boston Biomedical, Inc. was founded in November 2006 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., a top-ten listed pharmaceutical company in Japan operating globally in major pharmaceutical markets. Boston Biomedical's mission is to develop the next generation of cancer therapeutics by creating drugs designed to target cancer stemness pathways. Boston Biomedical's innovation in drug discovery has received a number of recognitions and awards in the U.S., including the Frost & Sullivan 2010 North American Drug Discovery Technology Innovation of the Year Award, the National Cancer Institute cancer stem cell initiative grant award in 2010, and the 2011 Biotech Pioneer Award at the Alexandria Oncology Summit. The company also received the "Company To Watch" award in the 10th Annual Team Massachusetts Economic Impact Awards in 2013. Boston Biomedical is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. Additional information about the company and its product pipeline can be found at www.BostonBiomedical.com. Disclaimer Regarding Forward-Looking Statements The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management's assumptions and beliefs in light of information presently available, and involve both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Any forward looking statements set forth in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. We do not undertake to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof. Information concerning pharmaceuticals (including compounds under development) contained within this material is not intended as advertising or medical advice. For general inquiries: Boston Biomedical, Inc. 617-674-6800 For media inquiries: Stephanie Bukantz CHAMBERLAIN PR 212-849-9440 [email protected] SOURCE Boston Biomedical, Inc. Related Links http://www.bostonbiomedical.com The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is just 9 percent. In order to save lives and double survival by 2020, PanCAN urges the Boston community to join PurpleStride. Funds raised through the event support critical research, clinical initiatives and patient services, including Know Your Tumor , Precision Promise SM , Clinical Trial Finder and the Patient Registry . Michele Wood, media relations chair of the PanCAN Boston Affiliate and member of PanCAN's Volunteer Advisory Council, lost her father to pancreatic cancer. She has made it her personal mission to improve patient outcomes. "PurpleStride is an important part of what we do as an affiliate. It brings people together who have a shared history with pancreatic cancer, and it provides them with much needed support, resources and most importantly, a sense of hope," said Wood. "Equally important, PurpleStride funds PanCAN's strategic initiatives that will help the organization reach its goal of doubling survival by 2020." PurpleStride Boston will be hosted by WCVB-TV's Erika Tarantal. The volunteer-led event is supported by national presenting sponsor Celgene; national gold sponsor AbbVie, gold sponsors Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals, Inc, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Pancreas and Liver Institute and Berg Health, gold media sponsor WCVB-TV and silver sponsor Michael Mula Memorial Scholarship Fund. To register, donate or learn more about PurpleStride Boston, please visit purplestride.org/boston. To learn more about the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and its signature walk PurpleStride, watch the PurpleStride PSA and the organization's PSA. Follow PanCAN Boston affiliate on Twitter and Facebook. Follow PanCAN on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. About the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) is dedicated to fighting the world's toughest cancer. In our urgent mission to save lives, we attack pancreatic cancer on all fronts: research, clinical initiatives, patient services and advocacy. Our effort is amplified by a nationwide network of grassroots support. We are determined to improve patient outcomes today and to double survival by 2020. Media Contacts: Michele Wood Media Relations Chair Pancreatic Cancer Action Network Boston Affiliate (978) 836-6376; [email protected] Zahra Nealy Public Relations Specialist Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (310) 706-3532; [email protected] SOURCE Pancreatic Cancer Action Network Related Links http://www.pancan.org Boxabl's concept allows customers to order fully customized homes or commercial buildings, which can be shipped next day to construction sites. Boxabl's patented shipping and packing technology allows for mass production of standard Boxabl rooms, which decreases construction time at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. "Boxabl will create a dramatic societal shift in housing accessibility by creating something the world has never seen before: true mass production of buildings, in a factory, on a large scale," said Galiano Tiramani, Chief Strategy Officer of Boxabl. Boxabl achieves these cost savings through standardizing the basic room design allowing repeatability in manufacturing. This simplification of the basic room design not only allows for efficient manufacturing, but enormous customizability. Boxabl box "blanks" will be inventoried for next day shipping to building sites. With the global market for construction estimated to hit $10 trillion by 2020, processes like Boxabl, which utilize advanced construction technology, are poised to have a dramatic effect on the building industry. Designed to be easier and more cost effective to ship than other manufactured building solutions, each 750-square-foot room can be packed in on itself and towed behind a standard sized pickup truck for fast affordable shipment. "We're committed to building all of our projects with factory produced, standardized units within the next five years," says Caleb Roope, Founder and CEO of The Pacific Companies, one of the nation's top affordable housing developers and an advisor to Boxabl. "We will work with the Boxabl team to help make this a reality." Poised to bring a common standard to the way builders approach residential and light commercial projects, Boxabl technology will also serve as a solution to housing shortages caused by natural disasters, such as the recent devastating hurricanes and wildfires affecting Texas, Florida and California. Standard Boxabl rooms can be pre-manufactured and stored for fast and easy deployment at a moment's notice by road, rail, sea or air to help those in need. The rooms can then be connected onsite during recovery efforts and then later repurposed into general infrastructure such as schools, businesses, libraries and more. Boxabl is a project of the Las Vegas-based intellectual property and development company 500 Group. The company is also currently examining potential sites for a manufacturing facility in North Las Vegas. To view or download the Boxabl whitepaper, please visit boxabl.com/whitepaper.pdf. About Boxabl: Boxabl allows customers to create a custom home with factory built rooms, shipped to the construction site and connected into a finished building. Boxabl's patented shipping and packing technology allows for mass production of standard Boxabl rooms, which decreases construction time at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. Boxabl is a project of the Las Vegas-based intellectual property and development company 500 Group. For more information visit www.Boxabl.com or find us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/boxabl) and Twitter (@_Boxabl). SOURCE Boxabl Related Links http://www.Boxabl.com House Speaker Paul Ryan pressed for a Republican tax overhaul in Madison on Monday, arguing it would jolt the national economy and aid wealthy and middle-class taxpayers alike. Ryan, R-Janesville, brushed aside as class warfare rhetoric criticism that the plan is tilted to favor the wealthy. His comments came as he pitched the GOP plan to a receptive audience: the states business lobby, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. The visit comes as congressional Republicans hope to ramp up efforts, which Ryan has led, to pass a sweeping cut of corporate and individual taxes and do a once-in-a-generation streamlining of the federal tax code. This is about giving a break to middle-class families, and its about getting tax rates on businesses down, Ryan told reporters at the event, held at Monona Terrace. President Donald Trump and congressional Republican leaders last month released a broad framework for a tax overhaul that would reduce the number of individual income tax brackets, eliminate deductions and exemptions, and repeal the estate tax. It also would slash tax rates for corporations and pass-through businesses. A left-leaning think tank, the Wisconsin Budget Project, analyzed the impact of the plan on Wisconsin taxpayers. It found 61 percent of the value of the tax cuts for Wisconsin residents would accrue to the top 1 percent of highest-earning taxpayers. Its also unclear exactly how the plan would affect middle-income earners. While the plan would increase the standard deduction, it would eliminate the personal exemption and limit itemized deductions. Officials have also not disclosed the income ranges for the various tax brackets. The Budget Project study found some Wisconsin taxpayers would actually face tax increases under the plan. Ryan declined to comment on the Wisconsin Budget Project study in a Monday press conference. But Ryan said the class warfare rhetoric especially rings hollow these days amid talk about how to make Americas business climate more globally competitive and entice multinational corporations to locate their headquarters and manufacturing facilities in the U.S. Theres nothing wrong with lowering the tax rates on businesses so Wisconsinites can go back to work, so that Wisconsin businesses can grow, Ryan said. Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Black Earth, who represents Dane County and south-central Wisconsin, countered that Ryan is the one conducting war against the middle class. The truth is, this is a tax giveaway to the wealthiest in the country at the expense of working families, Pocan said in a statement. The GOP tax overhaul plans provisions include reducing the corporate income tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent. It also would reduce to 25 percent the maximum tax rate on income from pass-through businesses such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S-corporations. Getting a tax overhaul done is widely seen as politically essential for congressional Republicans after their repeated failures to repeal and replace Obamacare. Last week, Ryan vowed to keep the House in session through the Christmas season, if necessary, to ensure passage. Also Monday, Ryan suggested he opposes restoring Obamacare subsidies to health insurers that Trumps administration unexpectedly announced last week it will end. Instead, lawmakers should renew efforts to repeal and replace Obamacare, he said. The answer is not just to shovel more money at a failing program, Ryan said. HOUSTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Society for Mexico Energy (ISME), a non-profit energy business advocacy group formed three years ago in Houston, is launching its Mexico City chapter with an inaugural meeting to be held on Nov. 14 at the EGADE Business School in Mexico City. A meeting previously scheduled for late September was canceled due to the earthquake disaster that struck Mexico City. Burns & McDonnell is a founding partner of ISME, an organization chartered to help businesses navigate Mexico's quickly evolving energy and power markets in the wake of Mexico's deregulation and partial privatization of its power and energy sectors. "This is a time of tremendous opportunity both for businesses within Mexico and for multi-national businesses looking to invest in Mexico," says Noe H. Saenz, President of the ISME Board of Directors and Manager of Mexico Operations for Burns & McDonnell. "When you have dramatic changes like these going on in the energy and power sectors, there is a great need for accurate information and basic education on best practices. ISME was formed to build bridges between Mexico and all the players in the power and energy world and our mission is to help all our members be successful." Mexico has implemented far-reaching reforms of its power and energy industries, opening both sectors up to private investment in 2013 after decades of monopoly control by state-run enterprises PEMEX and Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE). The reforms are creating a surge of attention among both U.S. and international businesses. ISME is chartered to help serve as a clearinghouse of best practices and accurate information for businesses and others looking for business opportunities. "Our vision to become an aggregator of business knowledge and best practices," says Saenz. "Our meetings and events are not about direct selling. We are totally focused on helping our members gain formal and informal opportunities for expansion and really to learn what the playing field looks like with everything from regulations to cultural traditions and practices. Businesses in Mexico are the same as those in any other country. They are looking for true partnerships with international players where everyone benefits." Founding partners of ISME are Burns & McDonnell, Kansas City Southern Railroad, Emerson and Siemens Financial Services. Founding academic partners are Tulane University Business School in Houston and the EGADE Business School at Tecnologico de Monterrey in Mexico City. With the start of the Mexico City chapter, ISME will rotate its monthly meetings between Mexico City and Houston. Each monthly meeting features a series of educational sessions updating members on latest developments within Mexico's energy sectors along with other items of interest from around the world. Learn more at www.ISMExicoEnergy.org. For more information, visit our MEDIA KIT. About Burns & McDonnell Burns & McDonnell is a company made up of more than 5,400 engineers, architects, construction professionals, scientists, consultants and entrepreneurs with offices across the country and throughout the world. We strive to create amazing success for our clients and amazing careers for our employee-owners. Burns & McDonnell is 100 percent employee-owned and is proud to be No. 16 on Fortune's 2016 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For. For more information, visit burnsmcd.com. Contact: Roger Dick, Burns & McDonnell 816-822-3339 [email protected] SOURCE Burns & McDonnell Related Links http://www.burnsmcd.com CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Precision neuroscience company Cadent Therapeutics has earned a milestone payment from Novartis for the initiation of a Phase 1 clinical study of a subtype selective NMDA receptor negative allosteric modulator (NAM) for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. Cadent Therapeutics exclusively licensed the intellectual property for compounds that selectively modulate NR2B-containing NMDA receptors to Novartis. Novartis is conducting all research and development for the program. "We are encouraged that Novartis has advanced our NR2B NAM molecule into clinical studies. This is an important milestone and one that will help support the advancement of Cadent's pipeline of first-in-class medicines to treat serious neurological diseases," said Michael Curtis, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer, Cadent Therapeutics. Cadent is discovering novel medicines designed to modulate dysregulated activity in the brain, tuning brain rhythms to restore motor and cognitive function. The company is advancing its pipeline of positive allosteric modulators for the treatment of spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), essential tremor and cognitive impairment in patients with schizophrenia, with plans to enter the clinic in 2018. About Cadent Therapeutics Cadent Therapeutics is a precision neuroscience company developing novel medicines that tune and modulate brain rhythms to restore cognitive and motor function in patients with serious neurological disease. The company leverages its unique precision neuroscience approach combining target specificity, patient selection, drug design and optimization, and novel quantitative endpoints to create first-in-class molecules to treat movement and cognitive disorders. Currently in early clinical development, Cadent is rapidly advancing its pipeline of therapies to treat spinocerebellar ataxia, essential tremor and schizophrenia. Investors include Atlas Venture, Clal Biotechnology Industries, Slater Technology Fund and Novartis. For more information, please visit cadenttx.com. SOURCE Cadent Therapeutics Related Links http://www.cadenttx.com JUPITER, Fla., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Landon Darr's latest images are now available for purchase, to help save sharks. The shots were taken on his last shark expedition to Tiger Beach, Bahamas. Landon Darr is a wildlife and expedition photographer with a passion for environmental conservation, especially for sharks. Recently, Darr went on a 7- day shark expedition to Tiger Beach in the Bahamas with Jim Abernethy, a world-renowned large predatory shark diving pioneer who also discovered the affectionate side of sharks in 2003. Landon Darr Images "To me, these photos represent the intimate shark interactions I had with some of the largest predatory sharks in the world! Believe it or not, these majestic predators responded favorably to affection! I was actually able to rub the sharks head as if they were dogs. Having the sharks so relaxed seeking only affection, gave us opportunities to get much closer for extended periods of time. As a shark enthusiast and conservationist, I was extremely upset to learn these beautiful creatures are being wiped off our planet at such an alarming rate. Roughly 100 million are killed annually worldwide and over 90 percent of the large species are already gone! I want these pictures to raise awareness to these issues while we work hard to put a stop to this needless slaughter! The shark's role in the ecosystem is to keep our oceans healthy and in balance! The oceans are the heart of our planet and we rely on them for our own existence!" said Landon Darr. A portion of all images sales will go directly towards shark conservation. Landon Darr really loves underwater photography because of the immense challenges faced with beautiful imagery. There are so many different criteria that need to come together at the same instant. Lighting, exposures, the correct lens and the subject all have to be perfect at that magic moment, in order to get an incredible image. He plans to sell his images, to help save these magnificent creatures! While underwater Darr interacted with tiger sharks, lemon sharks, caribbean reef and nurse sharks. It was an expedition that changed his life forever. The impact it had on him was profound and has compelled him to use his imagery, to do all he can to help save the species. He has already booked another trip and this time reserving the entire boat to the same location with the hopes he can transform others like he has. To join him on the next expedition please contact [email protected]. Images available for purchase at www.LandonDarr.com. Landon can be reached at [email protected]. Related Links Website SOURCE Landon Darr Images Related Links http://www.landondarr.com Each surgeon will be leading daily talks at the Camber Spine booth (550), as well as a lab on the show floor as part of the NASS Surgical Innovation Lab series. Dr. Malloy will be building off of his popular presentation from ISASS 2017. He will discuss how Camber Spine's sacroiliac fusion products, PROLIX and SICONUS, provide direct visualization and maximized fusion in the treatment of sacroiliac pain. Dr. Duarte will be discussing Right-Sided vs. Left-Sided Anterior to Psoas Approaches and the benefits of the newly FDA-cleared SPIRA Open Matrix ALIF. "We are honored to have two well-esteemed surgeons who are leading innovation in alternative approaches to traditional fusion procedures," stated Daniel Pontecorvo, Founder and CEO of Camber Spine Technologies. "Their enthusiasm for driving surgical advances aligns with Camber's vision to solve surgeon frustrations through innovation." Sacroiliac Fusion by Camber Spine Technologies is a two-step minimally invasive procedure which consists of the implantation of Prolix, a machined allograft implant, through direct visualization and a supplemental lateral fixation of the SI Joint using Siconus bone screws. The combined use of Prolix SI Joint Fusion System and Siconus SI Joint Fixation System may be the only MIS SI Joint Fusion technology to foster a True Fusion of the SI Joint. SPIRA Open Matrix ALIF was designed specifically to increase fusion rates and stabilization. The spiral support arches decrease subsidence by load sharing over the entire endplate, while also maximizing bone graft capacity. The Surface by Design technology is a deliberately designed roughened surface that facilitates bone growth through an optimized pore diameter, strut thickness and trabecular pattern. Camber Spine NASS 2017 Presentation Schedule Wednesday, October 25th 9:15AM: New Techniques For Fusion and Fixation Of The SI Joint with Dr. John Malloy IV, D.O. 11-1PM: Prolix/Siconus Lab with Dr. John Malloy IV, D.O. Thursday, October 26th 9:30AM: New Frontiers in MIS Spine Surgery; Advanced Implants and Anteriorpsoas/Anterior Lumbar approaches with Dr. Louis Duarte, M.D. Thurs 11-1 Spira Lab with Dr. Louis Duarte, M.D. *For more information or to register please contact Mindy Elgart at [email protected] About John Malloy IV Dr. John (Sean) P. Malloy is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Lumbar and Cervical surgery as well as minimally invasive procedures used to treat musculoskeletal and spinal injuries or disorders. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Pinnacle Health Hospital System and Penn State Hershey medical center where he was named Chief Resident in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. He has authored numerous publications in the orthopedic and spinal surgery literature and has presented and continues to speak at conferences both locally and on a national level. About Luis Duarte Dr. Luis E. Duarte, MD is a practicing Neurosurgeon in San Angelo, TX. Dr. Duarte graduated from Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in 1987 and has been in practice for 30 years. He completed a residency at Hahnemann University Hospital. He currently practices at Brain & Spine Institute and is affiliated with Shannon Medical Center. About Camber Spine Technologies, LLP Camber Spine Technologies, LLP, is a fast-growing musculoskeletal implant company founded in 2010 bringing innovative, best-in-class products to the market, providing surgeons and their patients with better treatment options. Camber Spine Technologies, LLP is an ISO 13485 certified medical device company located in Wayne, Pennsylvania, that markets a line of proprietary musculoskeletal products nationwide through its exclusive distributor, S1 Spine. The company is committed to delivering surgeon inspired new technologies to the spine market. For further information please visit www.cambermedtech.com. For inquiries about any of our products or distribution opportunities please call 484-427-7060. All of Camber Spine Technologies' products are proudly MADE IN THE USA. SOURCE Camber Spine Technologies Related Links http://cambermedtech.com "Carol is an outstanding litigator who has served as lead counsel in a significant number of major criminal investigations and trials, both as a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia, and later as a private practice trial attorney," said James Murphy, Chairman of Murphy & McGonigle. Ms. Bruce has a national litigation practice focusing on white-collar criminal defense and complex civil litigation. Her civil litigation experience includes representing companies and individuals in commercial or general civil disputes, civil fraud, False Claims Act, class action, antitrust, Foreign Sovereign Immunity Act cases, and Section 1983 Civil Rights Act cases. Ms. Bruce's white collar criminal case experience includes defense of individuals and companies in, among other things, fraud, public corruption, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), criminal False Claims Act, and Anti-Money Laundering investigations and prosecutions. She has also represented clients in hearings and proceedings before the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, in administrative proceedings within federal agencies, and in the conduct of internal corporate investigations. Ms. Bruce is a fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers. She previously served for ten years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia and later as a Deputy Independent Counsel in the investigation of a sitting Attorney General and an Independent Counsel in the investigation of a sitting Secretary of the Interior, and as a Special Counsel to the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Ethics in the investigation of a sitting U.S. Senator. "I am excited to join such a premier firm with a truly impressive group of prominent lawyers working together in an innovative small firm setting. They clearly are providing first rate, cost-effective client service while growing smartly. I look forward to working with old and new friends here. Murphy & McGonigle is the perfect fit and I am thrilled to join the team," says Bruce. About Murphy & McGonigle Murphy & McGonigle serves the litigation, enforcement defense, and regulatory counseling needs of clients across the full spectrum of the financial services industry from national banks, broker-dealers, investment advisers, and hedge funds, to national and international securities markets and exchanges. Many of the firm's partners formerly served in senior positions at the U.S. Department of Justice, SEC, FINRA, and CFTC and several served in senior executive positions in major financial institutions on Wall Street. The firm's white collar criminal defense group also represents companies and individuals in federal, national, and international prosecutions and internal investigations involving alleged violations of fraud, public corruption, money laundering and other criminal laws with partners who have served in high positions and as lead counsel in countless trials in the Justice Department, several U.S. Attorney's Offices, and in Independent Counsel and Special Counsel positions. Murphy & McGonigle, founded in 2010, was created based on an innovative law firm model that rigorously controls overhead while providing its attorneys and clients with state-of-the-art technology and litigation support to ensure both world-class service and maximum cost-efficiency. Murphy & McGonigle operates out of offices in New York, Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia. For more information about the firm, please visit www.mmlawus.com. Media Contact: Steven Carrington: (212) 880-3989 SOURCE Murphy & McGonigle, P.C. Related Links www.murphymcgonigle.com CGI addresses the increasing challenges global banks face in meeting demands of instant payments in today's digital world with cloud-powered solutions TORONTO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - CGI (TSX: GIB.A) (NYSE: GIB) announced that its BESS All Payments solutions and HotScan risk screening product suite are now available on Microsoft Azure. CGI's BESS All Payments global payment hub and engine solution is delivered as a modular and highly scalable technology. Its newest capability, Single Euro Payment Area (SEPA) Instant Payments offering, is benchmarked on Azure at speeds of up to 8,000 SEPA Instant Credit Transfer (SCT Inst) payments per second and is fully compliant with SEPA standards. BESS All Payments enables financial institutions around the world to transform their payments infrastructure as the payments landscape continues to evolve. "With the upcoming payment advances in Europe and the U.S., banking customers expect to make and receive payments instantly," said Cheryl Gurz, Director of CGI's Payments Solutions. "As the volume of these transactions expands, banks need configurable, flexible payment solutions. Using CGI's BESS All Payments solution on the Microsoft Azure cloud, banks and financial institutions can meet their customers' service expectations, comply with regulatory mandates, and lower the cost of payment system ownership and service." CGI's HotScan, an extension of CGI's payment platforms focused on watch list filtering, is also now available on Azure. HotScan continues to be a class-leading solution in the fight against financial crime. That heritage will carry forward into the cloud-based solution to help better prepare clients comply with today's expanding regulatory obligations. HotScan is installed in 30 countries and filters over 60% of the total value of currencies traded globally. "We're thrilled CGI has selected Microsoft Azure to help drive innovation in payments technology and combat financial crime," said Janet Lewis, vice president of Worldwide Financial Services at Microsoft. "With Azure, CGI and its top tier banking customers will realize the scale, speed and economic benefits the cloud provides, underscored by Microsoft's investments in security, transparency and regulatory compliance." About CGI Founded in 1976, CGI Group Inc. is the fifth largest independent information technology and business process services firm in the world. Approximately 70,000 professionals serve thousands of global clients from offices and delivery centers across the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific, leveraging a comprehensive portfolio of services including high-end business and IT consulting, systems integration, application development and maintenance, infrastructure management as well as 150 IP-based services and solutions. With annual revenue in excess of C$10 billion and an order backlog of approximately C$20 billion, CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Website: www.cgi.com. SOURCE CGI Group Inc. Related Links http://www.cgi.com/ CHICAGO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- CEI Media Group has joined the efforts of the Hyde Park Historical Society and the Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce to preserve a key piece of Chicago's history while also setting a new world record. The organizations have teamed up to become one of the finalists for a Partners in Preservation grant to restore the Hyde Park cable car building, one of the last historical symbols of the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago. The Hyde Park cable car building is the last station that survived Chicago's cable car era (1882-1906). The building was rescued by the Hyde Park Historical Society in 1977 and first renovated in 1980 to be used as a museum and exhibition space hosting public meetings and special events. Today, the building remains inconspicuously nestled below Metra train lines at the fringe of Downtown Hyde Park, less than half a mile from the University of Chicago's campus and walking distance from the site of the future Obama Presidential Center. The Hyde Park Historical Society is seeking funding to restore the 124-year old property as a treasured attraction for educators and visitors alike. Funds will be used for both interior and exterior preservation. To date the restoration efforts have been funded through donations from neighbors and local contractors. The Hyde Park cable car building is currently one of the Partners in Preservation: Main Streets top 25 semi-finalists, and represents the only semi-finalist from the state of Illinois. To become a finalist, the project needs the local area public support. Supporters have until October 31st to cast up to five (5) votes per day on the VoteYourMainStreet.org website. On Sunday, October 22, the Hyde Park community will raise awareness about the restoration project and also make an official attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records with one single group photo. Interested history-makers are invited to arrive at 1:00 pm sharp at the Hyde Park cable car building, 5529 South Lake Park Avenue. ABOUT PARTNERS IN PRESERVATION Partners in Preservation: Main Streets is an initiative created by American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation to engage the public in preserving and increasing awareness of America's historic places and their role in sustaining local communities. Ref: http://voteyourmainstreet.org/Hyde-Park ABOUT CEI MEDIA GROUP Founded in 2002, CEI Media Group is an award-winning, digital intelligence firm based in Chicago, Illinois. As an innovative data-driven, technology-enabled media solutions provider, CEI Media Group is leading authority on civic outreach, consumer engagement and supplier diversity with service to nonprofit organizations, small businesses and corporations. Media inquiries: Jared L. Kelly, CEI Media Group | Phone: (872) 333-9141 SOURCE CEI Media Group AUSTIN, Texas and BUFFALO, N.Y., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ePatientFinder, a research delivery network and leader in electronic health record (EHR) patient identification, and Circuit Clinical, a practice-based clinical research site network, today announced a partnership that will create the largest and highest-performing clinical research site network in the U.S. Together the two companies serve more than 200 clinical sites. "Our strategic partnership with Circuit Clinical creates the fastest-scaling research network in the country by leveraging ePatientFinder's unique referral cluster model and extensive ecosystem of partners, and Circuit Clinical's expertise at making it easier for patients to enroll in and stay in clinical trials," said ePatientFinder CEO Tom Dorsett. "Our combined technologies and joint commitment to personalizing the patient experience will allow us to scale rapidly and make it easier for patients to learn about and participate in clinical trials from their trusted physicians." ePatientFinder and Circuit Clinical offer complementary services that together create a seamless digital experience for patients interested in participating in clinical research in their doctors' offices. By using the referral cluster model, research sites dramatically increase their patient cachement or patient pool by tapping into physicians that are geographically-convenient to a research site. Participating in clinical research gives patients early access to cutting-edge treatment alternatives and potentially lifesaving therapies. ePatientFinder partners with physicians to assist and lead the recruitment process, using artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to identify potential research participants. ePatientFinder's Clinical Trial Exchange platform enables physicians and clinical trial sites to compliantly leverage EHR data to match doctors with relevant studies and provides a simplified way to refer patients to specific trials. "This partnership triples Circuit Clinical's existing network of more than one million patients and extends our geographic reach from Western New York to the rest of the nation," said Circuit Clinical Founder and Chief Strategy Officer Irfan Khan, M.D. "Both ePatientFinder and Circuit Clinical are committed to understanding the hopes of patients and the realities of the physicians who treat them. This partnership will advance our goal of making it easier for patients to have conversations with their doctors about participating in studies and choosing clinical research as a care option." Circuit Clinical combines technology and high-touch, personalized services to ensure high levels of patient engagement and retention throughout the clinical trial process. The company partners with community physicians to provide on-site coordination, support, and training to make it easier for physicians to participate in research while providing better care opportunities for their patients. About Circuit Clinical, Inc. Circuit Clinical, Inc., is a rapidly growing research site network headquartered in Buffalo, N.Y., and dedicated to empowering patients to choose clinical research as a care option. Our mission is to speed the development of transformative medicines by leveraging our exclusive network of physician partners and our proprietary digital platform. We rapidly find and enroll the right patients and support doctors with expert in-office research teams to ensure patient retention through study completion. Circuit's mandate is to deliver the highest quality study data to pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device clients while providing a superior experience for patients. (For more information visit www.circuitclinical.com.) About ePatientFinder ePatientFinder, based in Austin, Texas, is the only company that provides physicians and clinical trial sites with a secure technology platform that allows them to compliantly leverage EHR data and make it actionable. By tapping into the trusted physician-patient relationship, ePatientFinder produces the highest quality referrals in the business, which in turn help clinical trials get populated more quickly and cost effectively than ever before. With ePatientFinder, physicians and EHR providers develop additional revenue streams with little change to their current activities, and patient satisfaction increases dramatically with access to the advanced care that is only available through clinical trials. Learn more at www.epatientfinder.com and follow @ePatientFinder on Twitter. Media Contacts Amendola Communications for ePatientFinder: Michelle Ronan Noteboom, 512.426.2870, [email protected] For Circuit Clinical: Mariann Caprino, 917. 242.1087, [email protected] SOURCE ePatientFinder Related Links http://www.epatientfinder.com NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- After rounds of blind tastings at the United Nations by an international independent jury of top culinary and coffee experts, illycaffe, the global leader in high-quality coffee and a pioneer of large-scale, directly-traded coffee, announced that coffee beans grown by Honduras's Jose Abelardo Diaz Enamorado were designated "Best of the Best" in the 2017 Ernesto Illy International Coffee Award. The top-scoring coffee lot was named from among 27 of the world's best lots from the 2016/2017 harvests in nine countries, at a gala last night attended by representatives of each grower and delegates from each nation. Coffee lovers will have a chance to judge -- and enjoy -- for themselves, when illy makes each of nine finalists beans available for purchase as a single origin next year at select illy Caffe locations. Andrea Illy, chairman of illycaffe, presents the 2017 Ernesto Illy International Coffee Award to Honduras Jose Abelardo Diaz Enamorado and wife Daysi Clemencia Reyes, designating their coffee beans as "Best of the Best." In 1966, Diaz Enamorado and his wife, Daysi Clemencia Reyes, began planting coffee in the village of El Chimizal, with an initial area of 3.5 acres, in the region of Erandique. Alongside Honduras, coffee lots from Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Guatemala, India, Nicaragua and Rwanda were chosen to compete, following intensive analysis at illy's Quality Lab at its Trieste, Italy headquarters. All nine finalists will comprise the legendary illy blend, known for decades for its unparalleled richness, complexity and consistency. "It is an honor and a pleasure to recognize Mr. Diaz Enamorado for his achievement, and that of all of our finalists, which is nothing less than producing the highest-quality coffee in the world through sustainable methods,'" said Andrea Illy, chairman of illycaffe. The Ernesto llly International Coffee Award, named for illy's visionary, second-generation leader, recognizes excellence in raising coffee of the highest quality through sustainable means. The award celebrates his company's hand-in-hand work with farmers to realize its dream of offering the best coffee to the world. The Award is rooted in a program that illy established nearly three decades ago in Brazil, originally called Premio de Qualidade do Cafe para Espresso, that drove illy's transformation to a company that today purchases nearly 100 percent of its coffee beans directly from producers able to meet its exacting quality standards, at a guaranteed premium over market prices averaging 30 percent. Today, illy stands as one of the world's major purchasers of top-quality Arabica coffee directly from producers, whereby most coffee continues to be purchased on commodity markets, which can guarantee neither consistent quality nor a living wage to the coffee chain's most important stakeholders: its 25 million families of growers. This year, a panel of culinary and coffee experts from around the world took on the difficult task of choosing this year's "Best of the Best" bean, whose judgments were based on criteria including aromatic richness/complexity, balance/elegance and aroma intensity/strength. Mark Pendergrast (Jury Chair): A best-selling American author, Pendergrast is known throughout the coffee community for his books Uncommon Grounds: The History of Coffee and How it Transformed Our World, and Beyond Fair Trade: How One Small Coffee Company Helped Transform a Hillside Village in Thailand . A best-selling American author, Pendergrast is known throughout the coffee community for his books and Caterina Ceraudo : Ceraudo is the chef behind Michelin Star -holder restaurant Dattilo, located on her family's biodynamic farm in Calabria, Italy . She is known as one of Italy's preeminent chefs for her simple yet innovative takes on traditional Calabrian cuisine. Ceraudo is the chef behind -holder restaurant Dattilo, located on her family's biodynamic farm in . She is known as one of preeminent chefs for her simple yet innovative takes on traditional Calabrian cuisine. Pino Cuttaia : Cuttaia is the celebrated chef at the helm of the Licata, Italy -based restaurant La Madia, which he opened with his wife in 2000. Known for his interpretation of Sicilian cuisine, Cuttaia has received two Michelin Stars . Cuttaia is the celebrated chef at the helm of the Licata, -based restaurant La Madia, which he opened with his wife in 2000. Known for his interpretation of Sicilian cuisine, Cuttaia has received two . Kerri Goodman : Founder and Publisher of CoffeeTalk magazine, Goodman has more than 20 years of experience in the coffee industry. Beyond her editorial work, Goodman sits on the board of several non-profit coffee organizations. : Founder and Publisher of magazine, Goodman has more than 20 years of experience in the coffee industry. Beyond her editorial work, Goodman sits on the board of several non-profit coffee organizations. Richard Martin : Martin serves as editorial director of Food Republic, which he launched in 2011 and now reaches millions of food lovers every month. He was a founding editor of the groundbreaking culture magazine Complex . Martin serves as editorial director of Food Republic, which he launched in 2011 and now reaches millions of food lovers every month. He was a founding editor of the groundbreaking culture magazine . Denise Mazzei : Mazzei is an assistant professor of business management at the Culinary Institute of America , and an alum of the school herself. An entrepreneur at heart, Denise owned her own foodservice business for eight years. Mazzei is an assistant professor of business management at the , and an alum of the school herself. An entrepreneur at heart, Denise owned her own foodservice business for eight years. Josimar Melo : A food and wine journalist for leading Brazilian newspaper Folha de S. Paulo , Melo publishes a widely anticipated annual guide to cuisine in Sao Paulo, and presides over the Latin America Jury in Brazil for the World's 50 Best Restaurants. : A food and wine journalist for leading Brazilian newspaper , Melo publishes a widely anticipated annual guide to cuisine in Sao Paulo, and presides over the Latin America Jury in for the World's 50 Best Restaurants. Fernando Arturo Osorio Rodriguez : Director of Quality at Colombia's Almacafe S.A. FNC, and an appointee to the Colombian National Coffee Grower's Federation, Rodriguez is deeply expert in coffee's numerous physical and sensorial properties. : Director of Quality at Almacafe S.A. FNC, and an appointee to the Colombian National Coffee Grower's Federation, Rodriguez is deeply expert in coffee's numerous physical and sensorial properties. Ansha Yassin Suileman: Ethiopia -based Suileman is the managing director for CO QUA trading plc. She is a coffee expert in every aspect, specializing in coffee quality inspection, among numerous other skills. illy brought representatives of all 27 finalists to New York City for Monday's proceedings at the United Nations, followed by a gala at the New York Public Library to honor the extraordinary achievements of all growers. In addition to "Best of the Best," a "Coffee Lovers Choice" award, sponsored by illy partner United Airlines, determined by blind consumer tastings, was awarded to Juan Carlos Alvarez from Costa Rica. Katie Lee, renowned chef, cookbook author and co-host of Food Network's "The Kitchen," served as the gala's emcee. About illycaffe illycaffe is an Italian family business, founded in Trieste in 1933 and committed to offering the greatest coffee to the world. illy is the world's most global coffee brand, producing the unique illy 100% Arabica blend made of 9 of the world 's best selections of Arabica; each day more than 7 million cups are served in over 140 countries in the finest cafes, restaurants, hotels and in offices and homes. illy has become the standard for espresso, and thanks to three critical innovations, is considered the leader in the science and technology of coffee. With the bestowing of the first "Ernesto Illy Award for quality espresso coffee" in 1991 in Brazil, illy also pioneered direct sourcing, sharing know-how and paying a premium price for the best quality, based on partnerships underwritten by the principles of sustainable development. The company also founded the University of Coffee with the aim of fostering and spreading its culture, providing comprehensive academic and hands-on training for coffee growers, baristas and coffee lovers in order to cover every aspect of the product. Everything 'made in illy' is enhanced by beauty & art, which represent founding values of the brand, starting from its logo designed by an artist, James Rosenquist and including the renowned illy Art Collection, comprised of over 100 cups designed by international artists. In 2016 the company was employing 1,269 people, and posted consolidated revenues of 460 million. There are approximately 230 stores and mono-brand illy shops in 43 countries . SOURCE illycaffe NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- "The world's never needed conversations like these more," concluded Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis, Concordia Co-Founders, at the 2017 Concordia Annual Summit. Concordia's seventh Annual Summit, held on September 18th & 19th at the Grand Hyatt New York, was the largest nonpartisan forum on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, bringing together over 2,600 of the world's preeminent thought leaders, influencers, and decision makers from across all sectors and levels. The goal: to spark dialogue and fuel debate around today's most pressing global challenges, and to build lasting cross-sector partnerships. Today, Concordia releases its 2017 Annual Summit Report. The report features summaries of all Plenary and Strategic Dialogue sessions, including key takeaways and quotes, as well as highlighting overall figures for attendees, speakers, press, and more. As outlined in the report, Concordia continues to build from the Summit, proactively working to advance these issues by incubating tangible partnerships that have long-term social impact. As Matthew Swift commented, "There's a lot more to Concordia than just what's talked about in these rooms. It's what we do from hereit's what we do with the knowledge, what we've learned from these sessions and these speakers, and it's what we take from this." The organization's Social Impact and Strategic Engagement teams are identifying points of contact and facilitating one-on-one introductions between individuals and organizations across the private, public and nonprofit sectors who share goals and bring complementary assets to the table, be it insight, resources, influence, or skills. Through action-oriented programming, the Summit focused on the power of partnerships in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), implemented in January 2016 to guide international progress towards achieving lasting, long-term solutions to the biggest challenges facing the world today. Opening the Summit, Nicholas M. Logothetis, Concordia's Co-Founder & Chairman of the Board, commented: "I believe that today we have a unique opportunity to change the world in our own small way. If not now, then when? If not us, then who?" Some of the main outcomes from the Summit, as highlighted in the report, include: An announcement of a new partnership between Mastercard and PEPFAR to control the HIV/AIDS epidemic. An announcement of an expanded partnership between the International Fund for Agriculture (IFAD) and Mars to increase smallholder farmer incomes and create thriving rural communities in the Mars supply chain globally. An announcement of the joint estimate by the International Labor Organization and Global Slavery Index during the Plenary Session 'Turning the Tide: Harnessing Partnerships Against Modern Day Slavery' in partnership with Walk Free Foundation: on any given day in 2016, 40.3 million people were in modern slavery. An announcement by the government of Ghana of its intention to pass a Right to Information Bill to improve transparency in the country, during the Plenary Session 'Toward a New Trust: Serving Public Interests through Transparency and Integrity,' in partnership with The B Team. of its intention to pass a Right to Information Bill to improve transparency in the country, during the Plenary Session 'Toward a New Trust: Serving Public Interests through Transparency and Integrity,' in partnership with The B Team. Following the Strategic Dialogue on 'Food Policy and Our Future,' Concordia will be submitting a letter to US Congress highlighting specific recommendations for consideration in discussions on the Farm Bill. Alongside these sessions, and many more, the Summit featured two separate Days of Engagement, where Concordia invited attendees and Members to learn about successful partnerships through action. At the Summit itself, attendees created 1,000 first aid kits for Americares to deploy in its hurricane response efforts. The kits have already been sent to Houston for distribution to victims. The day after the Summit, Members led a Job Readiness Workshop at the Fortune Society, conducting mock interviews for formerly-incarcerated individuals as they prepare to reenter the workforce. To read the Summit Report and to learn more about Concordia, please visit https://www.concordia.net/newsroom/blog/2017-concordia-annual-summit-report/. About Concordia Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis. Learn how to get involved at www.concordia.net. Media Contact: Rita Lockheart, Communications Department, [email protected] SOURCE Concordia Related Links https://www.concordia.net Dr. Scott Rathgaber is CEO of Gundersen Health System. Jacob Anderson is a fairly new intern just out of high school. But dollars to doughnuts, Anderson probably could rescue Rathgaber if the CEO got lost in Gundersens labyrinthine hallways. Anderson has a keen sense of direction and has proved to be a quick study during just a few weeks as an intern in the security office of the hospital at 1900 South Ave. in La Crosse, his mentors say. The smiling redhead is one of eight students in Gundersens first wave of interns through Project Search, a national program founded at Cincinnati Childrens Hospital in 1996 that gives students with developmental and intellectual disabilities training so they will be able to land jobs. Rathgaber, no slouch himself having won RSVPs Who Will Be Smarter Than a 5th Grader? fundraising contest with partner Asher Mask of Spence Elementary School in April said Gundersen employees are gleaning as much from the interns as the students are learning from staffers. They bring something to us, Rathgaber said Tuesday during a program at which the interns were introduced before they demonstrated their developing skills. They have a value in bringing their energy and excitement to learn. We are imparting skills, but we get back, too, he said. Gundersens participation in Project Search helps fulfill its mission of improving the communitys health, the CEO said. The goal is to have them graduate with skills to obtain and retain a job, Rathgaber said. Jobs and education are a part of health. At Gundersen, interns receive classroom instruction as well as training in the departments. Laura Anderson, who is not related to Jacob and is in her 22nd year as a special education teacher in the Holmen School District, is the classroom instructor for the interns. Two skills trainers help her, and they all check in with the students Gundersen mentors on skills development. We provide instruction in all aspects of vocational education, Laura said. We teach the soft skills, such as watching other people to learn. We observe, offer additional training and suggestions for improvement as needed, and accommodations as may be needed, said Laura, who is stationed at Gundersen and is the primary contact between the interns and hospital department staffers. Technically a graduate of Holmen High School but participating in Project Search as an extended learning opportunity, Jacob is one of five Holmen interns, while the others are from La Crosse, Onalaska and Independence school districts. Jacobs really good at way-finding, said KJ Blanton, Gundersens security supervisor. Echoing that assessment were Laura, who said Jacob has a phenomenal memory, and Jon Speltz, the security officer who is one of Jacobs mentors. Jacob is like a sponge. He knows the building very well, and he works independently very well, Speltz said. Those traits come in handy as Jacob goes about his duly appointed rounds checking fire extinguishers to make sure they are in proper working order, accompanying Speltz to make bank deposits, patrolling parking lots for violators and logging items in to the lost-and-found system. Tuesday morning, he was logging in the hundred dollar bill somebody had found and turned in instead of yielding to what must have been a temptation to pocket. Nearby sat a ball of keys and fobs that Speltz estimated contains 75 to 100 keys. For his part, Jacob wonders how so many people can lose their keys in the hospital not to mention how they got home. Equally puzzling is the baby stroller security staffers found, although Speltz noted that it wasnt holding a lost baby. Asked what his favorite part of the job is, the Jacob grinned as he responded, Writing tickets. (Be careful where you park, Dr. Rathgaber, because your supervisor will be notified if you get a ticket.) Jacob also participated in Gundersens Stop the Bleed program, learning how to apply a tourniquet and bandage a wound in case he happens upon an emergency situation. We trust him, Speltz said. He not only learns from us, but hes taught us a lot about being grateful for what we have. Laura praised Gundersen staffers for their nurturing attitudes, adding, These guys (in security) are over the top. The interns rotate among other departments such as pharmacy and laundry during the nine-month program and are trained just as if they were new hires at Gundersen. Kelsey Stoos, who also is from Holmen and is working a stint as a technician in the hospitals in-patient pharmacy, said she likes the technological aspect best. Stoos demonstrated how she logs a patients prescription into a computer, then moved to the next room where she located it on a large carousel that stores virtually every medication the hospital might need. She retrieved the medication and double-checked it before a pharmacist also checked it, as is done for all technicians. Stoos said she especially likes compounding, which involves mixing ingredients for a medication that may not be available from a manufacturer or one that is in pill form but needs to be turned into powder for a drink. She catches on very quickly, said Miranda Peek, clinical manager for the pharmacy support system. The interns really have the same work ethic as our employees and make the same adjustments as new employees, Peek said. Rathgaber described Project Search as a partnership, because we couldnt do it alone. Collaboration with the Holmen School District, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and the state Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is the key to success, said Rathgaber. The only drawback is that the hospital has so many departments that also want interns after seeing their value, said Rathgaber, encouraging expansion. As for Jacob, he has experienced a sea change between his freshman year in high school, when he didnt talk to anybody, and last year, when he helped train other students, Laura said. Jacob, who initially balked at even being involved in Project Search and then second-guessed himself after signing up, now wouldnt have it any other way. Its the best thing I could have done for my life, he said. OKLAHOMA CITY, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Continental Resources, Inc. (NYSE: CLR) (the Company) today announced its first-ever sale of Bakken oil specifically for delivery overseas. The Company has sold 1,005,000 barrels of Bakken crude oil for November delivery to Atlantic Trading and Marketing ("ATMI"), which intends to export the oil to China. Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120327/DA76602LOGO Daily sales transactions of 33,500 barrels per day in November will take place in Cushing, Oklahoma. ATMI then plans to transport the oil for loading on tankers at Texas ports. "This is a historic day for Continental and begins a new chapter in our long-term strategy to establish multiple international markets for American light sweet oil," said Harold Hamm, Continental's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "This new normal was created by the American shale energy revolution and the lifting of the 1977 crude oil export ban. We expect to see many similar industry transactions in coming months and years." In December 2015 the U.S. lifted its ban on oil exports, allowing foreign sales to be transacted without a license. Oil exports have grown steadily in the past two years, primarily to foreign refineries configured specifically to process light sweet crude oil. "We recognized back in 2015, when we were working to lift the export ban, that American light sweet oil would be a good fit for these refineries, especially in Europe and Asia," Mr. Hamm said. "The current $6 discount to Brent should not exist, given the consistency and high quality of WTI, as well as relative shipping costs," he said. "Stabilized U.S. production and increasing industry sales of American crude to international markets will drive down U.S. inventories, correcting much of the recent disparity between Brent and WTI prices. Modern modes of transport in the crude oil sector today eliminate price disparities between markets and allow free markets to work." He noted that Continental continues to develop additional international markets for its light sweet oil. About Continental Resources Continental Resources (NYSE: CLR) is a top 15 independent oil producer in the U.S. Lower 48 and a leader in America's energy renaissance. Based in Oklahoma City, Continental is the largest leaseholder and one of the largest producers in the nation's premier oil field, the Bakken play of North Dakota and Montana. The Company also has significant positions in Oklahoma, including its SCOOP Woodford, SCOOP Springer and SCOOP Sycamore discoveries and the STACK plays. With a focus on the exploration and production of oil, Continental has unlocked the technology and resources vital to American energy independence and our nation's leadership in the new world oil market. In 2017, the Company will celebrate 50 years of operations. For more information, please visit www.CLR.com. Cautionary Statement for the Purpose of the "Safe Harbor" Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements included in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, but not limited to, forecasts or expectations regarding the Company's business and statements or information concerning the Company's future operations, performance, financial condition, production and reserves, schedules, plans, timing of development, rates of return, budgets, costs, business strategy, objectives, and cash flows are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words "could," "may," "believe," "anticipate," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "project," "budget," "plan," "continue," "potential," "guidance," "strategy," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current expectations and assumptions about future events and currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Although the Company believes these assumptions and expectations are reasonable, they are inherently subject to numerous business, economic, competitive, regulatory and other risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company's control. No assurance can be given that such expectations will be correct or achieved or that the assumptions are accurate. The risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, commodity price volatility; the geographic concentration of our operations; financial market and economic volatility; the inability to access needed capital; the risks and potential liabilities inherent in crude oil and natural gas drilling and production and the availability of insurance to cover any losses resulting therefrom; difficulties in estimating proved reserves and other reserves-based measures; declines in the values of our crude oil and natural gas properties resulting in impairment charges; our ability to replace proved reserves and sustain production; the availability or cost of equipment and oilfield services; leasehold terms expiring on undeveloped acreage before production can be established; our ability to project future production, achieve targeted results in drilling and well operations and predict the amount and timing of development expenditures; the availability and cost of transportation, processing and refining facilities; legislative and regulatory changes adversely affecting our industry and our business, including initiatives related to hydraulic fracturing; increased market and industry competition, including from alternative fuels and other energy sources; and the other risks described under Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors and elsewhere in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year December 31, 2016, registration statements and other reports filed from time to time with the SEC, and other announcements the Company makes from time to time. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which such statement is made. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this press release occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the Company's actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances after the date of this report, or otherwise. Readers are cautioned that initial production rates are subject to decline over time and should not be regarded as reflective of sustained production levels. In particular, production from horizontal drilling in shale oil and natural gas resource plays and tight natural gas plays that are stimulated with extensive pressure fracturing are typically characterized by significant early declines in production rates. We use the term "EUR" or "estimated ultimate recovery" to describe potentially recoverable oil and natural gas hydrocarbon quantities. We include these estimates to demonstrate what we believe to be the potential for future drilling and production on our properties. These estimates are by their nature much more speculative than estimates of proved reserves and require substantial capital spending to implement recovery. Actual locations drilled and quantities that may be ultimately recovered from our properties will differ substantially. EUR data included herein remain subject to change as more well data is analyzed. Investor Contact: Media Contact: J. Warren Henry Kristin Thomas Vice President, Investor Relations & Research Senior Vice President, Public Relations 405-234-9127 405-234-9480 [email protected] [email protected] Alyson L. Gilbert Manager, Investor Relations 405-774-5814 [email protected] SOURCE Continental Resources Related Links http://www.clr.com CHICAGO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Talent wars and shifting workplace expectations are requiring companies to rethink their employee experience, and new company Ignite intends to be their trusted partner. Through both scheduled and customized travel experiences, Ignite combines personal and professional development with cultural immersion and community engagement, a unique and comprehensive response to what companies need and employees are seeking. Anchored by community partners in each location, experiences are currently offered in Latin America and Africa, with domestic destinations soon to come. Authentic connections with fellow travelers and the local community are at the core of each trip, as Ignite believes that the power of a shared experience is the best environment for both personal transformation and global impact. With elements of professional development and team building woven throughout, participants journey through an intentionally designed itinerary, highly influenced by Ignite's founders and their decade of experience creating culturally empowering and mutually beneficial experiences. On an experience, you may support a youth education program and hike an active volcano in Nicaragua, or collaborate with women entrepreneurs and debrief as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean in Mexico. "People want to connect and experience the world in meaningful ways, and we intend to help companies provide that for their employees," stated Rich Johnson, Co-Founder, Ignite. "We've seen firsthand how these experiences inspire and develop employees, while have lasting impact for our community partners around the world." Ignite recognizes that a more purposeful workplace is an important and emerging differentiator for companies seeking new talent and to retain existing employees. This is particularly true when talking about the Millennial workforce, with eighty-eight percent saying their job is more fulfilling when they are provided opportunities to make a positive impact on social issues.1 "We understand that basic benefits and traditional professional development are just not enough. Employees are expecting and demanding more," said Ryan Jeffery, Co-Founder, Ignite. "We are excited to partner with companies to inspire, motivate and develop their people, which has proven ROI - increased engagement, productivity and retention." Ignite has already received strong interest, with 15 companies signing letters of intent. The early adopters include MillerCoors, who is providing these experiences for professional development, along with smaller but fast growing tech companies like Benchprep, who offers Ignite experiences as part of their employee benefits package. "MillerCoors' Tenth and Blake division is thrilled to be working with Ignite. With some of the world's most recognizable brands, we are constantly searching for new and engaging ways to provide leadership and team development," said Pete Marino, Chief Public Affairs and Communications Officer, MillerCoors and President at Tenth and Blake, the craft and import division of MillerCoors. "Our partnership with Ignite allows us to do this while aligning with our values around employee engagement and giving back to our community in the right way." Ignite's foundation is rooted in the work of its philanthropic partner, Spark Ventures, which, over the past decade, has built strong relationships with grassroots community organizations addressing many of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Spark Ventures facilitated successful cultural immersion trips for nearly a decade, providing the proof of concept that led to the launch Ignite, whose mission is to provide experiences that benefit humanity and the planet. These experiences are intended to change people for the better, something recent participants attest to. "My journey with Ignite was one of the best travel experiences of my life, and I have traveled extensively," said Sonya Jackson, Founder and Principal at Mantra for Good and Former Global Giving Executive for United Airlines, British Petroleum (BP), Sears and Sara Lee. "A partnership with Ignite is one of the best investments a company can make to develop and inspire their employees, embody their values and build their brand." Ryan and Rich's vision for Ignite includes expanding geographically with new community partners, diversifying the experiences with new development themes, and building a technology platform to enhance and extend the impact of their business. Learn more about Ignite at experienceignite.com. About Ignite Ignite offers experiences for companies and individuals that blend cultural immersion, community engagement and personal/professional development. Through expertly curated activities and exchanges, Ignite's journeys are culturally empowering and mutually beneficial. Ignite is a group of globally minded change-makers who believe in the power of connection to inspire and transform. They have a decade of experience providing transformational journeys that unite, empower and unleash resources that improve the world. Follow Ignite on Facebook Follow Ignite on Twitter Follow Ignite on LinkedIn Follow Ignite on Instagram 1 2016 Cone Communications Millennial Employee Engagement Study SOURCE Ignite Related Links https://www.experienceignite.com/ WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Crayon Software Experts, Secured2 Corporation and Ridge Global / Risk Cooperative today announced a partnership that brings industry-leading cybersecurity, cyberliability insurance and customer fulfillment together as one solution ensuring seamless customer integrations into Microsoft Azure. Secured2 The partnership leverages the core strengths of each company. Secured2 and Ridge Global / Risk Cooperative have created a unified product combining leading-edge security technology for end-to-end security providing cyberliability indemnification. The solution is being built and promoted with Crayon providing customers the ability to provision and scale the combined solution in the Azure Cloud. Glenn Orcut, Vice President of Sales, Crayon US said, "As one of Microsoft's largest Cloud partners in the world we see trememdous value in the solution that Secured2 and Ridge Global / Risk Cooperative have created. The marriage of industry-leading cybersecurity with indemnification against a data breach is a very big deal for the entire industry. At Crayon, we see this as a total game-changer." "Today's announcement is a giant leap forward in the cybersecurity industry," said Daren Klum, CEO of Secured2. "This strategic partnership brings together three important pieces that have been missing in the cybersecurity industry for years. Customers want to be secure in the Cloud, and they want to minimize risk and ensure a seamless transition to the Cloud. And this partnership delivers on a promise to do exactly that." This exciting new product is being rolled out at the Microsoft Government Cloud Forum in Washington DC and is expected to be available in the 4th quarter of this year with the ability to scale on the Microsoft Azure Government Cloud via the Crayon Cloud acceleration platform Cloud-iQ, giving partners like Secured2 the ability to properly optimize overall cloud and licensing requirements for their end customers. About Crayon: As the global leader in software asset management (SAM), cloud and volume licensing, and associated consulting services, Crayon is trusted advisor to many of the globe's leading organizations. Through its unique people, tools and systems, Crayon helps to optimize clients' technology estates within the new mobile-first, cloud-first world. Crayon at a glance: http://www.crayon.com/us About Secured2: Secured2 Corporation, a Microsoft Partner, is a data security technology pioneer. Beyond Encryption, the company's core product, introduces a shrink-shred-secure-restore methodology, combined with new compression technology that reduces the size of data up to 80 percent. Secured2 drives innovation for organizations that require 100 percent security for critical data assets. Secured2 at a glance: http://www.secured2.com About Ridge Global / Risk Cooperative: Working together under the banner of Risk, Readiness, and Resilience, Risk Cooperative and Ridge Global bring comprehensive risk management solutions to market, helping organizations address risk, readiness and resilience through a comprehensive service and solution offering in partnership with leading insurance companies and value-adding partners. Learn more at http://www.riskcooperative.com SOURCE Crayon Software Experts Related Links http://www.crayon.com/us "The annual 'Readers' Choice Awards' represent the best of the best in travel, and we are proud to accept this honor again from the readers of Conde Nast Traveler ," says Crystal's president and CEO, Tom Wolber. "Crystal has taken the feedback and input from luxury world travelers to heart since our inception, and to earn such high praise is proof that our commitment to exceed the expectations of our guests continues to resonate with them." Crystal's score of 92.20 topped the list of 12 finalist cruise lines in its category, with criteria voted on including accommodations, service, dining, activities, design and value. Crystal's acclaimed ocean ships, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, continue to be the standard bearers in luxury ocean travel, both featuring elegantly styled and spacious public areas, posh lounges and theaters, luxuriously appointed guest suites (most with private verandahs), and culinary experiences that include modern gastronomy and signature cuisine from Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. As Crystal continues to evolve and maintain its cutting-edge luxury offerings, both ships will undergo their most extensive dry dock redesigns in their respective history Crystal Symphony's currently underway and Crystal Serenity's set for fall of 2018. Crystal's pattern of innovation took another leap in 2015, when the company embarked on the most ambitious brand expansion in luxury travel history. The company's growing portfolio now comprises Crystal Cruises, Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, Crystal Luxury Air and Crystal AirCruises, with new vessels set to launch over the next five years. Throughout the venture, Crystal maintains its stated dedication to offering the very best level of personalized service and attention to each luxurious detail across all of its brands, with the company's acclaimed butler service offered with nearly all experiences. Along with adventures and more choices available to guests seeking to customize their luxury vacations, Crystal's service, space and amenities have shaped the company's credo over the decades. By sea, river, land and air, Crystal has redefined the way the world views luxury travel. Celebrating 27 years of excellence, Crystal Cruises is the World's Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line, having earned "World's Best Cruise Ship" in Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards for 24 years; been voted "World's Best Large Ship Cruise Line" by Travel + Leisure readers for 20 years; and the "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by travel professional organization Virtuoso for three consecutive years (2014, 2015 & 2016). The readers of Travel + Leisure also voted Crystal River Cruises the "World's Best River Cruise Line" and Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises the "World's Best Small-Ship Cruise Line" in 2017. The newest and upcoming extensions of the celebrated Crystal brand include Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, Crystal Luxury Air, Crystal River Cruises The World's Most Luxurious River Cruise Line Crystal AirCruises and Crystal Exclusive Class with Crystal Residences. Crystal is proud to be a platinum partner of the professionals of ASTA. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888.799.2437, or visit www.crystalcruises.com. Join the hundreds of thousands who follow Crystal Cruises' Facebook page and @crystalcruises on Twitter and Instagram, and engage in the conversation with #crystalcruises. CONTACT: Susan Robison Prin Bacalan Director, Global Public Relations Finn Partners (310) 203-4305 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Crystal Cruises Related Links http://www.crystalcruises.com FALLS CHURCH, Va., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- CSRA Inc. (NYSE: CSRA) announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Praxis Engineering Technologies Inc. for $235 million in cash. Praxis is a leader in mission applications development and engagement in the Intelligence Community. Headquartered in Annapolis Junction, Md., Praxis is a consulting and solutions firm dedicated to the practical application of software and systems engineering technologies. Praxis fuses world-class talent with engineering best practices, domain expertise, cutting-edge commercial technologies, and proven agile management approaches to create high-value solutions aimed at helping customers meet mission-critical needs. Praxis brings more than 350 highly-cleared employees, with the majority of them being software and systems engineers holding top-level clearances. "I'm ecstatic that we will be able to enhance the CSRA value proposition to the Intelligence Community with the acquisition of Praxis," said CSRA President and CEO Larry Prior. "With customers increasingly ready to adopt next-generation technologies, CSRA will be better able to help customers leverage more efficient infrastructures as they rationalize and modernize their mission applications." "I am thrilled to add industry-leading talent, under the leadership of Praxis' Bill Dunahoo and Jerry Schepers, to the CSRA family," said Leigh Palmer, CSRA's Executive Vice President for Intelligence. "The Praxis culture exemplifies best-idea-wins and we look forward to leveraging Praxis' creativity across the rest of the enterprise. This acquisition accelerates our vision of mission impact providing greater offerings to our customers in the intelligence community." "Cultural fit was of paramount importance as we selected a partner for the next phase of Praxis' evolution," said Praxis President and co-founder Bill Dunahoo. "Combining with CSRA will enable us to accelerate our growth, provide more opportunities for our employees, and significantly increase the value we bring to our customers' most critical missions. We are very excited to become part of the CSRA family." The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and approvals, including antitrust approval under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act and is expected to be completed during CSRA's third quarter, which ends December 29, 2017. When the transaction closes, Praxis Engineering Technologies, LLC will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSRA LLC. Holland & Knight LLP served as external legal counsel to CSRA. BDO USA, LLP served as accounting advisor to CSRA. Houlihan Lokey served as the exclusive financial advisor to Praxis. Venable LLP served as external legal counsel to Praxis. Chesapeake Corporate Advisors, LLC acted as transaction advisor to the stockholders of Praxis Engineering Holding, Inc. in connection with this transaction. About CSRA Inc. CSRA (NYSE: CSRA) solves our nation's hardest mission problems as a bridge from mission and enterprise IT to Next Gen, from government to technology partners, and from agency to agency. CSRA is tomorrow's thinking, today. For our customers, our partners, and ultimately, all the people our mission touches, CSRA is realizing the promise of technology to change the world through next-generation thinking and meaningful results. CSRA is driving towards achieving sustainable, industry-leading organic growth across federal and state/local markets through customer intimacy, rapid innovation and outcome-based experience. CSRA has over 18,000 employees and is headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia. To learn more about CSRA, visit www.csra.com. Think Next. Now. Forward-looking Statements All statements in this press release and in all future press releases that do not directly and exclusively relate to historical facts constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements represent CSRA's intentions, plans, expectations and beliefs, including statements about timing of and ability to complete the transaction and the integration of Praxis with CSRA. The forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of CSRA, including the receipt of regulatory approvals for the transaction. These factors could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements. For a written description of these factors, see the sections titled "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in CSRA's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any updating information in subsequent SEC filings. CSRA disclaims any intention or obligation to update these forward-looking statements whether as a result of subsequent event or otherwise. SOURCE CSRA Inc. Related Links http://www.csra.com NEW BERLIN, Wis., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Denali Ingredients, a leading Wisconsin-based ingredients supplier to the food manufacturing industry, named long-term company adviser Roger Steensma as its chief financial officer. Steensma, former principle partner of a CPA and advisor firm, has provided financial guidance for the business since the early developmental years of Denali Flavors, the West Michigan-based sister company to Denali Ingredients. "Given his long-standing affiliation with Denali, Roger has a unique and deep understanding of the company's history and culture that make him uniquely qualified for the CFO position," Denali Ingredients President Neal Glaeser said. "Roger's knowledge, skill sets and fit within the company was the perfect solution to further our growth and our mission." Steensma will play a key leadership role in helping the company achieve its growth objectives and he brings with him a deep set of specialties in business financial management, analysis, improvement strategies, mergers and acquisitions, and taxation. Denali Ingredients purchased a long standing Wisconsin-based manufacturing facility in 2006 to expand capabilities and offerings of their food ingredients business, with a focus on ice cream ingredients. The company has since posted strong and steady growth for the past 11 years. In that time, Denali Ingredients has more than doubled production volume through innovation, investments and upgrades to its production facilities, including adding a second production location, and expanding into many new product lines. "We are fortunate to have a group of incredibly talented individuals at Denali," Glaeser said. "The company must continue innovating, planning for new capabilities and growth potential, all of which required the addition of Roger's expertise." Steensma is a Certified Public Accountant, holds an MBA, Accounting-Taxation from Michigan State University and has more than 30 years of experience in financial analysis and direction. About Denali Ingredients Wisconsin-based Denali Ingredients is a leading supplier of chocolate coatings, fudge sauces, powders, fruit variegates, stabilizers, extruded products, flakes and other ingredients for the dairy, ice cream, bakery and food service industries. Denali Ingredients is a sister company to Michigan-based Denali Flavors, Inc., one of the leading inventors and marketers of specialty flavors for the ice cream industry, including its signature flavor, Moose Tracks. For more information, please visit www.denaliingredients.com or www.moosetracks.com. SOURCE Denali Ingredients Related Links http://www.denaliingredients.com "We wanted to showcase the products and technology that were the most functional -- and the easiest to integrate into our busy lives," said Digital Trend's Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Kaplan. "We paid special attention to how quickly we were able to adapt to life with a smart home product in a situation where most of us still rely on analog tech. The Home Awards are a great example of our larger editorial mission of introducing people to tech for the way we actually live." Editors judged award entries on technological advancements, accessibility, and overall experience. Click each category for a full review of the winners and the nominees. The following are the official winners of Digital Trends Annual Home Awards. To highlight the Awards, Digital Trends' in-house creative team, DT Design, created a custom layout to showcase the winners. To view the full coverage, please visit https://www.digitaltrends.com/2017-home-awards/. About Digital Trends Digital Trends is a leading consumer technology publisher helping people navigate an increasingly digital world. With easy-to-understand product reviews, entertaining news and videos, Digital Trends serves more than 30 million unique visitors each month. Digital Trends reaches 90 million tech influencers through their own media network, and its syndicate partners include Yahoo!, FOX News and more than 200 broadcast news stations. Digital Trends is headquartered in Portland, OR with offices in New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Chicago. For more information, visit www.digitaltrends.com. SOURCE Digital Trends Related Links http://www.digitaltrends.com "Digital disruption plays to a CIO's strengths in connecting the business to the right technologies and orchestrating how people, processes, and technologies intersect," said Hunter Muller , HMG Strategy's President & CEO. "But in order to succeed, the CIO must play a prominent role within the C-suite and break out of his or her comfort zone and apply an entrepreneurial mindset to guide the future direction of the company." The San Diego CIO Executive Leadership Summit will open with a brilliant executive briefing presented by Ramon Baez, Former SVP, Customer Evangelist, HPE and CIO Evangelist at HMG Strategy who will share the key principles required by IT leaders to successfully navigate digital transformation efforts. Other mesmerizing sessions will include an all-star executive panel featuring Drew Martin, CIO, Jack in the Box, that will explore the steps required by CIOs to reimagine the enterprise and empower innovation on the organization's path to a culture of genius; an executive panel of leading search executives who will examine the top attributes shared by best-in-class CIOs and technology executives; an executive panel that will highlight advancements in technology that are enabling companies to drive speed to market and gain a competitive edge; a presentation of SIM San Diego scholarship awards that are bestowed to local university students who show promise in becoming future technology executives; a presentation by Israel Martinez, Chairman, Global Manufacturing ISAO & CEO, Axon Global, who will share his perspective on the high-level direction of the Trump Administration in critical areas such as cyber security and policy making; an executive panel featuring Todd Barnum, CISO, GoPro Inc., that will offer best practices for balancing cyber security with agility and innovation; an executive discussion featuring Mary Gendron, SVP & CIO, Qualcomm, who will share her data-driven approach to talent assessment; and closing comments by Yasmin Shah, Co-Founder, President Emeritus, Marketing Chair, SIM San Diego and Founder & CEO, Seenager. Venerated speakers at the summit will include Geoffrey Aranoff, Vice President, Information Security, Western Digital Corporation; Ramon Baez, Former SVP, Customer Evangelist, HPE and CIO Evangelist, HMG Strategy; Todd Barnum, CISO, GoPro Inc.; Jason Callahan, Chief Information Security Officer & Sr. Director IT Operations, Illumina; John Caruthers, Supervisory Special Agent, FBI; Bob Concannon, Senior Client Partner, CIO/IT Officers Practice, Korn Ferry; Mary Gendron, SVP & CIO, Qualcomm; Johnson Lai, Chief Information Officer, NuVasive; Tony Leng, Managing Director, Practice Lead and OMP, Diversified Search; Drew Martin, CIO, Jack in the Box; Hunter Muller, President & CEO, HMG Strategy; Steve Phillpott, CIO, Western Digital Corporation; Dan Roberts, President & CEO, Ouellette & Associates; Yasmin Shah, Co-Founder, Marketing Chair, and President Emeritus of SIM San Diego, CIO and Board Member, Village to Village Network; George Sheth, MBA, FHIMSS, Managing Partner, Diligent Partners; Muddu Sudhakar, Entrepreneur & Executive; and Steve Trautman, Principal and Founder, The Steve Trautman Co. Platinum Partners for the summit include Pure Storage. Gold Partners include ASG Technologies, Box, Datalink, Nth Generation, ScaleArc, Tintri, Trace3, Workday, and Zendesk. Supporting Partners include Accenture Research Partners include Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Strategic Partners include Egon Zehnder, Heidrick & Struggles, Korn Ferry, Russell Reynolds Associates, and Spencer Stuart. Alliance Partners include Amplify Partners, Greylock Partners, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and Sequoia Capital. Association Partners include SIM San Diego. To visit the San Diego summit website and register for the event, click here. About HMG Strategy HMG Strategy is the world's largest independent and most trusted provider of executive networking events and thought leadership to support the 360-degree needs of technology leaders. Our regional CIO and CISO Executive Leadership Series, newsletters, authored books, and online Resource Center deliver proprietary research on leadership, innovation, transformation, and career ascent. The HMG Strategy global network consists of over 300,000 senior IT executives, industry experts and world-class thought leaders. Additionally, our partnerships with the world's leading search firms provide vital insights into the evolving roles of the CIO and CISO. The HMG Strategy CIO Executive Leadership Series offers a completely unique experience for IT executives to gain the latest insights and best practices for driving increased business value through the use of IT, and build invaluable relationships with peers and industry experts. The HMG Strategy CISO Executive Leadership Series is designed to provide information security leaders with the insights and best practices they need to tackle the most pressing cyber security challenges facing the enterprise today and going forward. For more information on joining the strongest executive leadership network and exploring our independent, forward-thinking thought leadership platform, please visit www.hmgstrategy.com. SOURCE HMG Strategy Related Links http://www.hmgstrategy.com Dr. Frucht, who joined NYU Langone in August as Professor of Neurology, also has been appointed director of the division of Parkinson's and Movement Disorders and associate chair of neurology, faculty group practices. Dr. Feigin, who joins October 1, also will serve as professor of neurology and associate chair of neurology for NYU Langone's Network and Clinical Research. "Having two movement disorders experts of Dr. Frucht's and Dr. Feigin's prominence is a tremendous benefit for our patients at the Fresco Institute, and for our health system's overall research and education efforts," says Steven Galetta, MD, the Philip K. Moskowitz, MD, Professor and Chair of Neurology. "They have already demonstrated how to move their award-winning research into the clinical setting. We are thrilled these efforts will continue and flourish at NYU Langone." About the Co-Directors Dr. Frucht joins NYU Langone from the Mount Sinai Health System, where he held the position of professor of neurology and director of the Movement Disorders Division. Prior to that, he was a member of the faculty at Columbia University for more than 10 years. An alumnus of Harvard Medical School, he completed his residency in neurology at the New York Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and a fellowship in movement disorders at Columbia University. Dr. Frucht's clinical practice is devoted to people who have Parkinson's disease, dystonia, myoclonus, tremor, tics, chorea, and a variety of less common movement disorders, with a particular interest in working with patients who have focal dystonia. With colleagues, he helped develop a novel treatment for people who have vocal tremor, spasmodic dysphonia, and myoclonus dystonia, and has improved the use of botulinum toxin injections for musicians' dystonia and other task-specific movement disorders. A prolific researcher, Dr. Frucht has published over 150 peer-reviewed articles and has edited two books, co-authored 26 book chapters and presented more than 100 abstracts and national and international scientific meetings. Additionally, Dr. Frucht has served as the editor-in-chief for the Journal of Clinical Movement Disorders since 2014, and as an ad hoc reviewer for numerous other major peer-reviewed medical journals. He serves as a member of the International Movement Disorders Society's Scientific Program Committee. "Parkinson's' and other movement disorders require a full team treatment approach that does not stop in the clinic, but extends into the community, and I am honored to co-direct an institute with such robust programs and resources available to help New Yorkers," says Dr. Frucht. "Our most important mission is to ensure that each person we see at the Fresco Institute receives compassionate, individualized, and expert care." Dr. Feigin joins NYU Langone from Northwell Health, where he was director of the Experimental Therapeutics Division at the Center for Neuroscience at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, and professor of molecular medicine and neurology at Hofstra University School of Medicine. He returns to the Department of Neurology at NYU Langone Health, where he served as a faculty member from 1995 through 2009, while maintaining hospital appointments at North Shore University Hospital. He received his medical degree from Columbia University where he also completed an internship, before completing his residency in neurology and fellowship in movement disorders at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. Dr. Feigin's primary research interests include utilizing neuroimaging methods to assess the effects of therapies for movement disorders with the ultimate goal of developing improved therapeutic modalities for patients. He has served as an investigator on more than 30 clinical trials of new therapies for Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease, and is currently leading a large multicenter clinical trial for Huntington's disease. Dr. Feigin is the author of more than 90 peer-reviewed publications and more than 60 abstracts presented at medical meetings. He has also authored or co-authored more than 20 reviews, books and book chapters. Dr. Feigin has a special research interest in Huntington's disease and is chair of the Clinical Research Advisory Committee for the Huntington Study Group. He also holds memberships in the American Academy of Neurology, American Neurological Association and Movement Disorders Society, and has served on the editorial board for Neurology Today and the Journal of Huntington's Disease. "We are learning more than ever before about movement disorders though scientific research, to reach our goal of better preventing and treating Parkinson's and these other debilitating diseases," says Dr. Feigin. "I am grateful for the opportunity to join a unique center like the Fresco Institute, where all our scientists and clinicians share a common goal to advance care through collaborative research across the NYU Langone health system and entire world." About the Fresco Institute The mission of the Marlene and Paolo Fresco Institute for Parkinson's and Movement Disorders at NYU Langone is to advance treatment, education, and research for Parkinson's disease and movement disorders. Established by a $25 million grant in 2015, the multidisciplinary team at the Fresco Institute works closely with patients and families to develop customized treatment plans that fit goals, control symptoms and enhance quality of life, while helping patients and their families connect to innovative programs in the clinic, community, and at home. These include psychosocial and psychological support services, personalized physical exercise programs, and specialized home services that are designed to enhance quality of life. The Fresco Institute is also committed to research to improve understanding of the nature of Parkinson's disease and related movement disorders; its researchers are actively investigating ways to better address symptoms and improve treatment options. The team also collaborates with clinicians and researchers in Italy to share projects, train junior researchers, and advance care internationally. In addition to Drs. Frucht and Feigin, the Fresco Institute's leadership team includes scientific director Richard W. Tsien, DPhil, founding director and director of international programs Alessandro Di Rocco, MD, program manager Amy Lemen, MA, LCSW, and division administrator Rodica Draghici. Media Inquiries: Ryan Jaslow Phone: 212-404-3511 [email protected] SOURCE NYU Langone Health Related Links https://med.nyu.edu LOS ANGELES and LAS VEGAS, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- DTT is pleased to continue its partnership with Team Blue, a high-end professional hand car wash franchise founded in 2009. DTT has had an MPA with Team Blue since 2013, and is Team Blue's exclusive video surveillance provider. DTT's services are currently being used at Team Blue locations across Florida and Pennsylvania, where the company is headquartered. Team Blue initially intended to use DTT's cutting-edge video surveillance software as a way to mitigate the risk of false claims. However, they soon realized that DTT's SmartAudit surveillance reports could be used to improve employee productivity and speed of service. They now receive regular customized reports from DTT which monitor employee behavior to ensure that proper procedures are being followed at all times. "DTT is an incredible tool when it comes to Risk Mitigation," says Jeff Haas, CEO and Director of Franchise Development at Team Blue. "Whenever there is a claim, we can instantly pull the video of the event from the MyDTT portal and submit it to the authorities, if needed. We've also found DTT's services to be very helpful when it comes to employee training, because the SmartAudits provide us with concrete examples of both positive and negative employee behavior. However, the biggest advantage to using DTT is that it gives me peace of mind; I know that my surveillance needs are being completely taken care of, and that lets me focus 100% of my energy on successfully running my businesses." "It's difficult for any company to monitor multiple locations to ensure that proper procedures are being followed," says Tom Moran, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for DTT. "This is especially true of a rapidly growing business with several new locations like Team Blue. However, while an owner can't be in all their stores at once, DTT can be. Our comprehensive surveillance systems give employers the tools they need to easily monitor all of their locations. I'm thrilled that our services have helped Team Blue grow their business, and I look forward to our continued successful partnership." About DTT Founded in 1999 by Sam Naficy, DTT provides video surveillance solutions to the hospitality and retail industries. DTT has supported more than 36,000 clients while protecting trillions of dollars in assets and overseeing nearly 2 million employees. Brands that use DTT include McDonald's, SUBWAY, Dairy Queen, Burger King, Arby's, Taco Bell, KFC, and Auntie Anne's, among others. More information at: www.dttusa.com About Team Blue Team Blue is a professional car wash franchise company founded in 2009 that specializes in high quality and eco-friendly hand car wash services. Their mission is to "provide Team Blue customers with a superior hand car wash experience." They currently have locations in Pennsylvania and Florida, and have additional franchises opening in Florida in the coming months. They are headquartered in State College, Pennsylvania. Please visit www.teambluefranchise.com for more information. 800.933.83.88 [email protected] www.dttusa.com SOURCE DTT Related Links https://www.dttusa.com Four candidates have been named finalists for the open vice chancellor for student affairs position at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Each candidate will have a two-day visit to the campus between Monday and Nov. 1, including open forums with students at staff. More information on each of the candidates can be found online at uwlax.edu/student-affairs-search. The four finalists are: Douglas Wermedal, associate vice president for student affairs at South Dakota State University, Vitaliano Figueroa associate vice president for student affairs at San Diego State University, Eric Norman, vice chancellor for student affairs at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, and, Sarah Swager, former dean of student success at Central Washington University. The previous vice chancellor, Paula Knudson, left UW-L for a position at Northern Iowa University, in her home state. Barbara Stewart, who has been named the first vice chancellor of the newly created office of diversity and inclusion at UW-L, has been performing the role in the interim. CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A dozen cultural and arts nonprofit organizations in North Carolina are receiving $524,500 in grants from the Duke Energy Foundation to support arts appreciation and educational programs that foster community vitality. "Arts and cultural programs unite the diverse communities we're fortunate to serve," said David Fountain, Duke Energy's North Carolina president. "Encouraging an appreciation for the arts and culture is a passion of Duke Energy, and we're proud of our partners who are doing just that through various initiatives across the state." The grants, from the Duke Energy Foundation, will help enhance arts, music, cultural and professional development programs, allowing the organizations to continue strengthening and expanding their work within our communities. Piedmont Natural Gas, whose grant-making process is now part of the Duke Energy Foundation, contributed to several of the grants to help support the vibrancy of North Carolina. "Duke Energy has long understood the value of community involvement in the arts," said Eleanor Oakley, president and CEO of the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County. "Their support has allowed us to continue our large Artists in the Schools program in Wake County schools, as well as institute a Wheels on the Bus fund for our low-income schools, ensuring that their students may travel to an arts and cultural facility at least once a year. We are proud to work with the Foundation on these efforts." The following organizations are receiving grants to strengthen arts and cultural initiatives in North Carolina. Blumenthal Performing Arts Center $15,000 for the Duke Energy Ticket Scholarship Fund, which provides tickets to underserved youth and families in partnership with other Charlotte-area nonprofit organizations. Carolina Ballet $150,000 for the 2017-2018 season and Arts Access Initiative, which allows the ballet company to offer affordable performances and continue providing complimentary and discounted tickets to people who wouldn't otherwise be able to attend performances. Central Park NC $10,000 to expand creative and entrepreneurial arts and culture programming to reach additional students and lifelong learners. Durham Arts Council $15,000 for the Creating Community through the Arts initiative, which supports classes, artist residencies and exhibits. The program serves more than 900,000 participants, provides more than 1,000 jobs and has a collective economic impact exceeding $125 million annually. Mint Museum $14,000 to support cultural outreach programming in Charlotte. Bilingual Stories & Music on Wheels and Masters Art Classes on Wheels offer unique early childhood learning opportunities at no or low cost, with enhanced accessibility, addressing transportation and/or financial barriers. North Carolina Museum of History Foundation $20,000 to support field trips to the museum for public school students in the central and eastern parts of the state. North Carolina Opera $50,000 to support the upcoming season, Opera in the Schools programs and adult engagement projects. North Carolina Symphony $150,000 for the Statewide Music Education Sustainer, which provides music education to more than 60,000 schoolchildren annually in 31 counties, many of which are rural and under-resourced areas with limited access to the arts. North Carolina Theatre $30,000 for Program Excellence and project support featuring the mainstage show A Night with Janis Joplin. The program impacts more than 5,000 young people throughout Durham, Orange and Wake counties with a combination of training, performances and education/outreach activities. United Arts Council of Greater Greensboro $27,000 for the 2017 Community Arts Education and Access Program to improve access to the arts, increase arts education initiatives and fuel economic development in local communities. In addition, grants will be used for artistic programming to present the National Folk Festival, which attracts a diverse audience to the Greensboro area. United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County $18,500 for the Artists in Schools Program, which places professional teaching artists in Wake County schools for curriculum-based performances, residencies and workshops. With a goal to expose as many K-12 students as possible to the arts, this project involves 142 schools, reaching 152,000 students annually. Winston-Salem Arts Council $25,000 to help regional artists with projects that support professional growth and ensure the arts serve a diverse and wide-reaching population. Duke Energy Foundation The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to address the needs of the communities where its customers live and work. The Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts. The Foundation's education focus spans kindergarten to career, particularly science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), early childhood literacy and workforce development. It also supports the environment and community impact initiatives, including arts and culture. Duke Energy employees and retirees actively contribute to their communities as volunteers and leaders at a wide variety of nonprofit organizations. Duke Energy is committed to building on its legacy of community service. For more information, visit duke-energy.com/foundation. 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. Contact: Grace Rountree Office: 919.546.2557 | 24-Hour: 800.559.3853 SOURCE Duke Energy Related Links http://www.duke-energy.com MALVERN, Pa., Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- To celebrate the 25th anniversary of its innovative Cedar Impressions Polymer Shake & Shingle Siding, CertainTeed announced today the official opening of a contest for homeowners who have lived in their home for 25 years or more. The winner will receive Cedar Impressions siding and Restoration Millwork trim, including installation worth up to $25,000. "As we walk down memory lane, we are excited to share in our commemoration of Cedar Impressions' 25th anniversary with this fun homeowner giveaway," said Pam Schechter, president of CertainTeed Siding. "Cedar Impressions siding is long-lasting and beautiful, much like the homes that were built more than a quarter century ago. We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate this milestone than to help a family enhance their own home's curb appeal." The contest is open to homeowners who have lived in their homes for 25 years or longer and own a home with siding exterior. To enter the contest, participants must complete the online form available at certainteed.com, answering questions about their home and submit photos showing all sides of their home. CertainTeed will be accepting entries through 11:59 p.m. ET on December 31, 2017. The winner will be selected on January 31, 2018, based on the answers given in the questionnaire and how much the home would be improved by replacing current siding with Cedar Impressions. Applicants can enter here: certainteed.com/cedarimpressions25. With the choice of over 45 colors, the Cedar Impressions family of shakes and shingles is the most realistic-looking polymer siding available today, offering exceptional beauty and versatility for a distinctive look. Eight classic styles precisely recreate the timeless appeal of freshly sawn wood using authentic patterns and textures. Individual 5-Inch Sawmill and 7-Inch Straight Edge Perfection shingles also feature proprietary CedarLife Color Blends, a progression of shades that captures the appearance of natural Eastern White Cedar and Western Red Cedar at different stages of life, enabling the selection of unique, random color patterns for one-of-a-kind exterior designs. For more information about Cedar Impressions Polymer Shake & Shingle Siding, or to request copies of the Cedar Impressions brochure, visit www.certainteed.com, contact your local CertainTeed distributor or call 800-233-8990. By offering the most in selection, beauty and performance, CertainTeed has been voted the number-one brand for vinyl siding products by building professionals for 21 consecutive years, according to the Hanley Wood Brand Use Study. CertainTeed also offers partners higher standards and greater rewards to help grow their business. With the broadest range of exterior products, including polymer, insulated, composite and vinyl siding, as well as roofing, fence, railing, decking and exterior trim, CertainTeed provides unmatched Freedom of Choice with the option to mix and match products, styles and colors for a beautifully coordinated look. For more information, visit www.certainteed.com. About CertainTeed Through the responsible development of innovative and sustainable building products, CertainTeed, headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania, has helped shape the building products industry for more than 110 years. Founded in 1904 as General Roofing Manufacturing Company, the firm's slogan "Quality Made Certain, Satisfaction Guaranteed," quickly inspired the name CertainTeed. Today, CertainTeed is a leading North American brand of exterior and interior building products, including roofing, siding, fence, decking, railing, trim, insulation, drywall and ceilings. A subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, one of the world's largest and oldest building products companies, CertainTeed and its affiliates have more than 5,700 employees and more than 60 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada. The group had total sales of approximately $3.4 billion in 2016. www.certainteed.com SOURCE CertainTeed Related Links https://www.certainteed.com WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- E.ON today announced it is joining with other American wind energy companies as a keystone partner of Habitat Hammers Back, the Hurricane Harvey repair and rebuilding initiative led by Habitat for Humanity. The companies are donating $1 million to support repairs and rebuilding efforts in areas impacted by the storms. "Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to everyone along the Texas Coastal Bend and in Houston who are recovering from Harvey," said Patrick Woodson, Chairman of E.ON North America. "Several E.ON employees around our Papalote Creek Wind Farm lost their homes, and even more saw their communities devastated when the hurricane made landfall. Habitat for Humanity will play a critical role in helping people rebuild their homes and communities. With Texas as the nation's leader in wind energy, it is only right that we and the wind industry be a leading force to help Texans rebuild and recover." Volunteers from E.ON and other wind companies are participating in Habitat's Houston event today. "Texans are not afraid of hard work and our employees really want to help their neighbors in need now and in the future," said Woodson. "Habitat for Humanity is committed to helping families recover from Hurricanes Harvey, and we wouldn't be able to do it without the support of our partners like E.ON and the other companies from the American wind energy industry," said Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford. "Their gift is an investment in the long-term recovery of these communities." Through Habitat Hammers Back, Habitat is already at work responding to Hurricane Harvey, helping families to clean up and prepare for the rebuilding effort to come. Habitat will work with its local offices throughout the hurricane-affected regions to assess the shelter and housing needs and develop response options. In addition to long-term housing repair and construction, Habitat's response includes organizing volunteers and resources to help with the cleanup of homes damaged by wind and flood waters. More information on Habitat's and E.ON response to Hurricane Harvey can be found at https://habitat.org/American-Wind-Energy/Harvey. About E.ON E.ON is an international investor-owned energy company, focusing entirely on energy networks, customer solutions and renewables. In the 2016 financial year, more than 40,000 employees from 90 nations generated sales of around $42 billion. Around 33 million customers purchase gas and electricity from E.ON. Within the global renewables segment E.ON is a leading company. The company has already invested more than $11 billion and operates nearly 5.4 gigawatts of renewable capacity. About Habitat for Humanity Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in southern Georgia. The Christian housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in more than 1,300 communities throughout the U.S. and in more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitat.org. Contacts: Matthew Tulis E.ON 512.698.4043 [email protected] Bryan Thomas Habitat for Humanity International Cell: 404-908-5131 [email protected] SOURCE E.ON If his nomination is approved, The Association is confident that Mr. Rutledge's experience in public and private life will serve him well, and will result in fair treatment for ESOPs and employee owned companies. As the Senior Tax & Benefits Counsel for the Senate Finance Committee, Mr. Rutledge is well acquainted with the staff and activities at EBSA. And as a practicing employee benefits litigator and counselor, he has seen first-hand how tax and benefit regulations are applied in the workplace. Most importantly, if Mr. Rutledge's nomination is approved, EBSA will be led by an individual familiar with the commitment of the Trump Administration to regulate business in a manner that is not burdensome to law-abiding corporations. "We have always respected EBSA's role in ensuring fairness and regulatory oversight for ESOPs, but over the years, EBSA has not always demonstrated a respect for ESOPs and the role they play in the American economy," said ESOP Association President J. Michael Keeling. "Research shows that ESOPs are an exceptional vehicle for distributing wealth more fairly among those who help to create it, and for helping workers prepare for retirementfrequently with no out-of-pocket expense on their part." The Association is hopeful that Mr. Rutledge will also reflect the strong endorsement of ESOPs that was set forth in the 2016 National Republican Party Platform. Page eight of that platform states: Republicans believe that the employer-employee relationship of the future will be built upon employee empowerment and workplace flexibility. We therefore endorse employee stock ownership plans that enable workers to become capitalists, expand the realm of private property, and energize a free enterprise economy. "We are hopeful that Mr. Rutledge will be appointed quickly, and will provide a fair and balanced approach to ESOPs that has been missing for too long from EBSA's dealings with ESOP companies, and that is consistent with the Republican Party Platform's endorsement of ESOPs," said Keeling. About the ESOP Association The ESOP Association is America's largest employer-sponsored advocacy and education association focused on employee stock ownership plans. Founded in 1978, the Association seeks to enhance federal laws governing ESOPs, provide members with expert information, and fund research via the Employee Ownership Foundation (an affiliate). The ESOP Association is a national non-profit organization with 18 local Chapters. Its members include ESOP companies, companies considering an ESOP, and service providers that assist in setting up and maintaining ESOPs. SOURCE The ESOP Association Related Links http://www.esopassociation.org SAN FRANCISCO, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The global ethylene copolymers market is expected to be valued at USD 67.02 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing demand from packaging industry is anticipated to favor market growth in the coming years. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160524/371361LOGO ) In terms of revenue, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) product type segment dominated the market in 2016 and is anticipated to ascend at a CAGR of 6.9% over the next eight years. In the packaging industry, EVA is widely used as shrinkage film as it contains a higher percentage of anti-blocking additives as compared to polyethylene. It also has the capability to provide low-temperature hot sealing, that enables energy savings and fast packaging speed, which is, in turn, expected to fuel market growth over the forecast period. Thus, the segment is anticipated to ascend at a steady CAGR over the next eight years. The raw materials utilized for the manufacturing of ethylene copolymers are governed by various organizations such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These organizations have also set various quality standards for the raw materials and end products manufactured from ethylene. EPA has levied strict regulations to encourage the production of environment-friendly products, such as ethylene oxide, from ethylene. The Asia Pacific region is expected to ascend at the highest growth rate over the forecast period. Rising demand from the packaging industry, in emerging economies such as India and China, is expected to drive the market in the coming years. The Asia Pacific region is characterized by rising awareness regarding various applications of ethylene copolymers. Browse full research report with TOC on "Ethylene Copolymers Market Analysis By Application (Hot Melt Adhesives, Asphalt Modification, Thermo Adhesive Films), By Type (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate, Ethylene Ethyl Acrylate), By End-use, And Segment Forecasts, 2014 - 2025" at: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/ethylene-copolymers-market Further Key Findings From the Report Suggest: In terms of product type, Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) segment dominated the overall market in 2016 and this trend is expected to continue over the forecast period Asia Pacific is projected to progress at the highest 6.8% CAGR over the forecast period. Rising food consumption & technological innovations in countries such as China and India are projected to benefit the market growth in the region over the next eight years. is projected to progress at the highest 6.8% CAGR over the forecast period. Rising food consumption & technological innovations in countries such as and are projected to benefit the market growth in the region over the next eight years. The global demand for hot melt adhesive application was valued at USD 18.2 billion in 2016 and is anticipated to ascend at a steady CAGR of 6.8% over the next eight years in 2016 and is anticipated to ascend at a steady CAGR of 6.8% over the next eight years The U.S. ethylene copolymers market was valued at USD 8.2 billion in 2016 and is estimated to reach USD 14.6 billion by 2025 in 2016 and is estimated to reach by 2025 DuPont, Celanese Corporation, The Dow Chemical Company, BASF SE, Sipchem, and USI Corporation are some of the key players in the global market Browse related reports by Grand View Research: Glycol Ethers Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/glycol-ethers-market Silver Enamel Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/silver-enamel-market Calcium Peroxide Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/calcium-peroxide-market Ethanolamines Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/ethanolamines-market Grand View Research has segmented the global ethylene copolymers market on the basis of application, type, end-use, and region: Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million; 2014 - 2025) Hot melt adhesives Asphalt modification Thermo adhesive films Others Type Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million; 2014 - 2025) Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) Ethylene ethyl acrylate (EEA) Ethylene butyl acrylate (EBA) Ethylene propylene Others End-use Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million; 2014 - 2025) Packaging Building & Construction Automotive Textiles Others Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million; 2014 - 2025) North America U.S. Europe Germany UK Asia Pacific China India Central & South America Middle East & Africa Read Our Blog By Grand View Research: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/blogs/bulk-chemicals About Grand View Research Grand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc Phone: +1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.grandviewresearch.com SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc. WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A group of American veterans and civilians, and their families, filed a lawsuit against five major pharmaceutical and medical-supply corporations in federal court today, accusing the companies of knowingly or recklessly supporting an Iraqi terrorist group that attacked, killed, and wounded thousands of Americans in Iraq. Financing of this group allegedly has come via a longstanding and continuing bribery scheme that many of the defendants have pursued for years and was designed to keep their profits high. The defendants being sued are the parent companies and/or subsidiaries of AstraZeneca plc (AZN), General Electric Company (GE), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), Pfizer Inc. (PFE), and Roche Holding AG (RHHBY). The defendants are being sued under the Anti-Terrorism Act by more than 100 Americans who were attacked or who had a family member attacked by the terrorist group Jaysh al-Mahdi (also known as JAM or the Mahdi Army). Jaysh al-Mahdi is led by Muqtada al-Sadr, a notorious Iraqi cleric known for his fiery anti-American sermons and brutal attacks on Americans serving in Iraq after the fall of Saddam. As alleged in the complaint, Jaysh al-Mahdi has carried out its campaign of terror in Iraq using money and material provided directly by the defendants. The suit follows an extensive investigation by the Washington, D.C.-based law firms of Sparacino & Andreson PLLC and Kellogg, Hansen, Todd, Figel & Frederick, PLLC. "While Americans worked to rebuild Iraq, many were attacked by a terrorist group that we allege has been funded in part by the defendants' corrupt sales practices," said Josh Branson, a partner at Kellogg Hansen. "This lawsuit alleges that the defendants have aided and abetted terrorism in Iraq by paying bribes to the terrorists who ran the Iraqi Ministry of Health. We allege that those corrupt payments, including cash and free goods, provided an important source of financing for the terrorists." Jaysh al-Mahdi is effectively the Iraqi franchise of Hezbollah, a Lebanese terrorist organization, and serves as Iran's terrorist proxy in Iraq. The complaint alleges that Jaysh al-Mahdi's terrorist attacks against Americans in Iraq have been planned, authorized, and sometimes conducted by Hezbollah. "As alleged, many of the defendants have a documented history of paying bribes that supported terrorism under Saddam," said Ryan Sparacino, a partner at Sparacino & Andreson. "We believe that the evidence will show that when Jaysh al-Mahdi seized the Iraqi Health Ministry, the defendants continued paying the same bribes that many of them provided under Saddam except in far greater amounts. The complaint alleges that these corruption schemes are extensive and ongoing. The lives of the families of those killed and injured have been forever changed, and the results have been devastating." Kellogg Hansen and Sparacino & Andreson conducted an extensive investigation before filing the complaint. The firms spent thousands of hours working on the matter and analyzing hundreds of transactions between the defendants and the Iraqi Health Ministry. For many of the survivors of these attacks and the families of those killed, much of what the investigation uncovered came as a shock. "My hope is that we can get justice for my brother's death and for so many others who didn't have to die in Iraq," said Ami Neiberger-Miller, the surviving sister of U.S. Army Specialist Christopher Neiberger, who was killed in action in Baghdad, Iraq on August 6, 2007, three days after his 22nd birthday. The complaint is available at http://www.terrorismcase.com. SOURCE Sparacino & Andreson PLLC The event also saw the debut of new winter and fall collections and limited editions from various brands, along with eye-catching fashion performances led by Ashin, Jolin Tsai, JJ Lin and Chris Lee. The opening ceremony also featured fashion interactions, markets, culture forums, art exhibitions and delicious food. During the opening ceremony, YOHO! announced the overall upgrade of the brand and unveiled its newly redesigned logo. Designed by famous world-class American street artist Futura, the handmade logo gives people a "street" impression and emphasizes the fashion elements of YOHO! The brand new design, which sets a new tone for the brand, exemplifies freedom and wildness, and makes people feel the live energy flowing behind YOHO! YOHO! also launced the one-month long prelude for the New Trends in Stock Festival. The 100,000 new products online ignited the September fashion season, and gradually built up to the best carnival in the Chinese fashion world. As one of the top fashion events in the world, the brand lineup at YOHOOD could not be underestimated. This is the fifth year for YOHOOD, so with solid status and influence, YOHOOD had many "friends" that came by to support. There were more than 150 brands at the event. With the gradual maturing of Chinese fashion market, YOHOOD's international influence is rising as the opening ceremony for the New Trends in Stock Festival. This year, the brand lineup included Stussy, HUMAN MADE, IH NOM UH NIT, MARNI, RIPNDIP, UNDERCOVER and more. It was RIPNDIP's first time coming to China, so the brand brought its limited editions that were only sold in the United States. International avant-garde buyer stores such as GR8 and SMETS also set up pop up shops in YOHOOD, bringing 424, Vetements and many other popular fashion brands to the event. Fashion icon and brand owner JJ Lin also announced some big news at YOHOOD regarding the cooperation between his personal brand SMG and YOHO! The two companies will partner to take advantage of their unique resources, and bring more innovations into their products and cooperations. It's no longer a secret that one can always run into famous people at YOHOOD. This year, many celebrities showed up at the event, including the chief creative director of YOHOOD, NIGO, famous American street artist Futura and international superstar and fashion leader Pharrell Williams. Last year, NIGO acted as a private photographer for all the fashion people. This year, NIGO designed his own domain "NIGO & Friends." He not only brought his own brand HUMANMADE, but also set up a pop up store with Kojiharu, former member of AKB48. Meanwhile, trendsetters listened to what world-class artist Futura had to say about youth culture, got special gifts at the live event, and also watched Futura paint closely while getting a taste of the special charisma of pop art. Pharrell Williams and Futura showed up together at the NIGO & Friends area and interacted closely with the audience, causing zealous response from the fans. This year, Mayday also showed up during the event to surprise the audience. The song Almost Famous, which won an award for Best Lyrics, was named as the theme for the YOHO! corporation, and the new MV starring Jackson from TFboys lit up the whole audience. If YOHOOD is the trendsetters' offline party of the year, then "The New Trends in Stock Festival" is the online party for fashion shoppers around the world. Now that the event has entered its fifth year, the show+exhibit buying model is getting more and more mature and the mix of online and offline events are being accepted by more brands. Trendsetters no longer only have to watch online -- they can walk into the fashion environment themselves and feel the atmosphere in the real world. Buyers around the world can now access brands like Vans, Converse, Adidas Originals, NIKE, STUSSY, RIPNDIP LA, FUTURA X YOHO!, Undercover, Human made, Madness, STAYREAL, OAMC, Public School, GCDS, and R13 through the official website (www.YOHOBUY.COM) or the app. The dream of buying world fashion brands at home has finally come true. SOURCE YOHOOD Related Links http://www.YOHOBUY.COM AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Unprecedented. Unprecedented rainfall, unprecedented disaster, unprecedented need. Just a few of the ways the events of September 2017 unfolded in North America. And facing the fallout, Faurecia employees in Canada, Mexico and the United States gave an unprecedented response. Each year in September, the more-than-20,000 employees of Faurecia North America fight hunger in their communities during the annual FUELS (Faurecia Unites with Employees for Local Service) Community Food Drive. Inspired by their neighbors' needs in communities throughout Canada, Mexico and the United States, employees raised 1.157 million meals in 2017 surpassing the goal of 1 million meals. The money and food collected were then donated to local food bank partners in those communities. "Our employees answered the call to help their neighbors in need this September. They were especially inspired by the natural disasters in and around the Houston, Puebla and Mexico City areas," said Kevin Lammers, President of Faurecia USA Holdings, Inc. "Each year, employees' FUELS efforts are impressive, but this year's call-to-action resulted in unprecedented generosity and determination of spirit. Looking ahead, I see employees continuing to inspire action in their communities and everyday lives." Since the FUELS food drive began in 2010, Faurecia North America employees have donated 6.61 million meals, and the giving campaign has taken root at Faurecia sites around the world. Since its creation in 1997, Faurecia has become a leading global supplier of automotive parts and a preferred partner to automakers throughout the world. To learn more about how you can become a Faurecian and "Inspire Mobility," visit http://careers.faurecia.com. Media Contacts Tony Sapienza Director, Communications Faurecia North America Tel: +1-248-606-1775 [email protected] Rebecca Courtney Account Executive Airfoil Group Tel: +1-574-528-0600 [email protected] About Faurecia Founded in 1997, Faurecia has grown to become a leading player in the global automotive industry. The Group focuses its technology strategy on development of Sustainable Mobility solutions for improved fuel economy and air quality, as well as Smart Life On-board technologies for the cockpit of the future. To meet these challenges, Faurecia is accelerating its innovation to meet the changing needs of its customers and is rapidly expanding its innovation ecosystem through partnerships, acquisitions and investments in start-ups. With 330 sites including 30 R&D centers, 100 000 employees in 34 countries, Faurecia is now a global leader in its three areas of business: automotive seating, interior systems and clean mobility. In 2016, the Group posted total sales of 18.7 billion. Faurecia is listed on the NYSE Euronext Paris stock exchange and trades in the U.S. over-the-counter (OTC) market. For more information www.faurecia.com and our newsroom https://newsroom.faurecia.com/ SOURCE Faurecia Related Links http://www.faurecia.com SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Doximity, the leading social network for physicians and advanced practice clinicians, today released a first-of-its-kind research study, entitled "Language Barriers in U.S. Health Care", that analyzed the languages other than English U.S. physicians report speaking nationally, and across the largest 50 metropolitan areas in the country. By comparing these findings against U.S. Census data, the report found a significant "language gap" between those languages spoken by physicians and their patients. Physicians who speak second languages, both native- and foreign-born, play a key role in caring for patients who are not proficient in English. Nearly half (44.7 percent) of all physicians who speak a non-English language graduated from a medical school located outside of the United States. Many of these foreign graduates are immigrants to the U.S., and the language skills they bring are important in clinical settings given the diverse languages spoken by the U.S. public. No previous study has determined which second languages are most commonly spoken by U.S. physicians. This report, drawn from a physician sample size of more than 60,000 respondents nationally, details which languages are most commonly spoken by U.S. physicians, how these languages compare with those spoken by patient populations, and the dynamics across each in the top 50 U.S. metro areas. Top 10 non-English languages spoken by multilingual physicians nationally Spanish 36.2% Hindi 13.8% French 8.8% Persian/Farsi 7.6% Chinese 5.2% Arabic 4.1% German 3.7% Russian 3.0% Italian 2.7% Hebrew 1.9% "The most important conversations we have as physicians are with our patients," said Nate Gross, MD, co-founder of Doximity. "A growing body of research has shown patients achieve better health outcomes when they can communicate with their caregivers in the same language. Understanding imbalances between languages can help address communication challenges across our health care system." Nationally, there are significant gaps between adoption rates of popular languages. While Spanish is far and away the most common, non-English language spoken by both patients and physicians, the two groups share only six of the top 10 most common languages with each other. Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, and Swahili and Sub-Saharan African are included among the top 10 languages for patients, while physicians more commonly speak Persian/Farsi, German, Italian, and Hebrew. The study also ranked each language to understand how physician and patient populations compare. Patients who speak the following languages, which proportionally fewer physicians speak, will likely have a more difficult time finding a doctor who speaks their language. Top 10 patient languages with the least overlap with U.S. doctors Swahili and Sub-Saharan African Hamitic and Near East Arabic Polynesian Burmese and Southeast Asian Filipino Korean Indonesian Vietnamese Thai Japanese Almost all top 50 metro areas have weak matches when comparing the languages that physicians and patients speak, but patients with limited English proficiency in the following metros are most likely to have challenges finding physicians who speak their language. Top 10 metro areas with a significant "language gap" Washington, D.C. Louisville, Ky. Minneapolis Baltimore Seattle Detroit Boston Pittsburgh, Pa. Nashville, Tenn. Jacksonville, Fla. "Previous research has not determined which non-English languages are most commonly spoken by physicians, or how those languages compare to patient populations," said Christopher Whaley, PhD, lead author and adjunct professor at the University of California, Berkeley School of Public Health. "Understanding the scope of this problem is the first step to creating solutions for people with limited English proficiency." The Doximity data set represents the most comprehensive information available, and is the first to compare the languages physicians speak in each of the top 50 metros with the languages that patients speak in those same areas. It also expands beyond previous research that has focused specifically within the Spanish-speaking population to assess more than 30 common languages spoken in the United States. Methodology The physician language data comes from self-reported responses in the Doximity social network. The most common, non-English languages spoken by providers in each metropolitan statistical area (MSA) was identified from the Doximity data. The U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) was used to measure the languages spoken by patients and weighted to a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population. The ACS data was used to identify the most common, non-English languages spoken in each metropolitan statistical area. Doximity Media Contact: Jim Rivas, [email protected] 415-515-8780 About Doximity Founded in 2011, Doximity connects physicians and advanced practice clinicians to make them more successful and productive. Doximity is the largest secure medical network with over 70 percent of all U.S. physicians as members, enabling collaboration across specialties and every major medical center. Doximity is based in San Francisco and was created by the founders of Epocrates and Rock Health. To learn more, visit www.doximity.com. SOURCE Doximity Related Links http://www.doximity.com CONVERSE, Ind., Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- First Farmers Financial Corp. (OTCQX:FFMR) announced that at its October 10, 2017 board meeting, the Board of Directors approved a plan to repurchase, on the open market, up to 7,000 shares of the Corporation's outstanding common stock. The timing, price and quantity of purchases under the stock repurchase plan will be at the discretion of management and the plan may be discontinued, suspended or restarted at any time depending on the facts and circumstances. The program will be funded from current available working capital. First Farmer's management feels the stock repurchase plan, depending upon market and business conditions, will provide capital management opportunities and add value for the Company's shareholders. First Farmers Financial Corp. is a $1.65 billion financial holding company headquartered in Converse, Indiana. First Farmers Bank & Trust has 27 offices throughout Carroll, Cass, Clay, Grant, Hamilton, Howard, Huntington, Madison, Marshall, Miami, Starke, Sullivan, Tipton, Vigo and Wabash counties in Indiana and 7 offices in Coles, Edgar and Vermilion counties in Illinois. As of October 9, 2017 the Corporation had 3,586,578 common shares outstanding. SOURCE First Farmers Financial Corp. Related Links http://www.ffbt.com Property owners living in the Western Technical College District will see their tax rates go down this year. The technical colleges board, which represents the 11 western Wisconsin Counties that make up the districts boundaries, voted to approve a $29.7 million levy on Thursday. The total tax levy is increasing by 2.07 percent from last year, but due to property values rising more quickly than the levy, residents will see a 2.32 percent decrease in their tax rates. With the new rate, property owners will pay $153.20 per $100,000 in value, down $3.64 from last year. Western is just a portion of the property tax bill owners pay, which also includes taxes levied by the local school district, municipality and county. Taxes are one of three legs that support Westerns $111 million budget. The two-year technical college with campuses in La Crosse, Black River Falls, Independence, Mauston, Tomah and Viroqua also expects to receive $22.4 million in state aid this year. Nearly a third of that aid will be tied to measured outcomes. The other leg of funding comes from tuition, which increased about 1.4 percent this year to about $130 per credit for two-year degree seekers and $176 per credit for students in two-year transfer programs. Western Vice President for Finance Wade Hackbarth said enrollment is higher than projections, up about 1.4 percent. This bodes well for the college, which relies on student growth to provide additional revenue. One of the challenges we are facing is the box of revenue we have, Hackbarth said. It is a challenge to grow since so much is out of the control of the college. Dr. Meiklejohn has been a respected and sought-after patent advisor in the multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical and biotech industry for almost 30 years. She focuses her practice on patent prosecution, validity and infringement opinions, and litigation for pharmaceutical biotechnology clients ranging from startup and emerging companies to academic and research institutions and established biopharma corporations. Dr. Meiklejohn helps clients develop strong intellectual property portfolios of patented drugs and therapies that profoundly improve the quality of, and sometimes save, individuals' lives. She is an elected member of Fish's nine-person Management Committee, has served as the Deputy Practice Group Leader for the Patent Practice Group for 10 years, and as a member of the firm's Professional Development Subcommittee for five years. She is also an active member of Women in Bio, Boston Chapter, which promotes careers, leadership and entrepreneurship for women in the life sciences. Dr. Meiklejohn received her J.D., cum laude, from Boston College Law School in 1995, her Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1987 and her B.A., with honors, in chemistry from Cornell University in 1981. She was a post-doctoral fellow at Harvard University in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Fish & Richardson is a global patent prosecution, intellectual property litigation, and commercial litigation law firm with more than 400 attorneys and technology specialists in the U.S. and Europe. Our success is rooted in our creative and inclusive culture, which values the diversity of people, experiences, and perspectives. Fish is the No. 1 U.S. patent litigation firm, handling nearly three times as many cases as its nearest competitor; a powerhouse patent prosecution firm; a top-tier trademark and copyright firm; and the No. 1 firm at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, with more cases than any other firm. Since 1878, Fish attorneys have been winning cases worth billions in controversy often by making new law for the world's most innovative and influential technology leaders. For more information, visit https://www.fr.com or follow us at @FishRichardson. Contact: Amy Blumenthal or Kelly Largey Blumenthal & Associates Fish & Richardson 617-879-1511 800-818-5070 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Fish & Richardson Related Links http://www.fr.com "We are honored to welcome Eric Spiegel as our newest Executive in Residence," said Dean Deborah Crown. "His proven leadership experience at complex organizations in a range of fieldsincluding energy, power, chemical, water, industrial, automotive, and healthcare fieldswill enrich our curriculum and reinforce our mission to develop business leaders who strive to have positive impacts on their organizations and communities." Spiegel brings more than 35 years' global leadership and consulting experience to Crummer. Prior to his role as CEO of Siemens USAthe largest subsidiary of Siemens AG, he served in key global roles at Booz Allen Hamilton and Booz & Co., including four years as the firm's Tokyo-based managing director for International businesses, including in Asia, Australia, Latin America and the Middle East. He also led the Global Energy practice for many years. Spiegel currently serves as a part-time Special Advisor for General Atlantic, a leading global private equity firm providing capital and strategic support for growth companies. He is also on the Board of Directors for Liberty Mutual Insurance and Dover Corporation. "As a member of the College's Board of Trustees, I look forward extending my relationship with Rollins to help prepare young leaders to navigate a global business environment that is changing more rapidly than ever," Spiegel said. "As an MBA graduate, I understand the value of combining a quality business program with practical advice and mentorship. With Florida's top-ranked MBA program and location in Orlandoone of the nation's fastest growing innovation hubsRollins' Crummer School is the ideal place to make a lasting impact." Spiegel, who will help teach a course at Crummer on Leadership with an Entrepreneurial Mindset, along with Dr. Craig McAllaster, has long been considered a thought leader in the business community. He is a Co-author of the book Energy Shift, which and he has also contributed numerous articles on diverse topics including technology, manufacturing, global leadership, and education to publications such as the Wall Street Journal, strategy+business Magazine and Public Utilities Fortnightly. Spiegel also served on President Obama's Advanced Manufacturing Partnership Steering Committee as well as Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker's Foreign Direct Investment Advisory Council. He holds an MBA from The Amos Tuck Graduate School of Business Administration at Dartmouth College where he was an Edward Tuck Scholar and a AB in Economics with Honors from Harvard University. Established to supplement the School's immersive, experience-based curricula, the Executive in Residence Program offers students the opportunity to learn directly from the knowledge and perspectives of renowned business leaders. About Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business Just outside Orlando in Winter Park is the Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business, a graduate school distinguished by its renowned faculty, intimate class size and applied approach to learning. It touts top MBA rankings from Bloomberg Businessweek and Forbes magazines and is among a select group of business schools carrying AACSB International graduate-level accreditation, including the first accredited Executive Doctorate in Business Administration program in the state. The school also houses six Centers of Excellence: Leadership Development, Advanced Entrepreneurship, Career Resources, Management & Executive Education, the Edyth Bush Institute for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership and the Crummer Alumni Association. For more information, visit www.rollins.edu/business. Founded in 1885, Rollins College is Florida's oldest college. Located in Winter Park, near Orlando, Rollins is consistently ranked as one of the top regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to full-time undergraduate programs in the College of Liberal Arts, Rollins offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs for working adults through its evening program at the Hamilton Holt School and graduate business degree programs through its Crummer Graduate School of Business. Rollins serves approximately 3,200 degree-seeking students annually. For more information, visit www.rollins.edu. SOURCE Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Fusemachines Inc. announced on Friday that it has appointed Dr. Steven J. Rennie as the Director of Artificial Intelligence Research. A former team lead for IBM Watson (Multimodal Group) and a veteran in speech recognition, Rennie's appointment furthers Fusemachines' mission of Democratizing AI to put Artificial Intelligence in everyone's hands through education, software and services. "With over 20 years of rich experience in research and development, Steve is the perfect candidate to lead our future initiatives," said Sameer Maskey, the CEO of Fusemachines. "As one of the leading experts in robust automatic speech recognition (ASR), multi-talker ASR, LVCSR and image captioning, Steve will help Fusemachines to stay on the forefront of technological innovation," said Maskey. The transformative potential of AI for business has led to a major transformative potential of AI for business has led to a major talent shortage of engineers with the requisite knowledge and experience in Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Fusemachines provides AI-as-a-Service to businesses who value the importance and potential of AI but struggle to find skilled AI engineers. Rennie's hiring will help the company build on its position as one of the most prominent AI services providers. "My goal is very simple - to establish Fusemachines as a world-class research facility, and to leverage the expertise within Fusemachines as it fulfills its destiny and becomes a leader in providing AI-based solutions," stated Rennie. Rennie will also be a valuable resource for the company's flagship AI Fellowship program, which provides selected scholars from underserved communities with mentorship and resources to develop advanced skills in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The program culminates in a Micromasters certificate from Columbia University. After successfully launching fellowships in Nepal and the Dominican Republic, Fusemachines is now laying the groundwork for a program in New York City. Rennie joins Fusemachines from IBM, where he was the Team Lead for Watson Multimodal Group. He earned his PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Toronto with a specialization in speech recognition. He frequently speaks at industry conferences such as Neural Information Processing Systems (NIPS) and IEEE International Conference on Acoustics, Speech and Signal Processing (ICASSP). Press Inquiries: Preeti Adhikary Phone: 800-506-3873 Email: [email protected] Related Links company website SOURCE Fusemachines Inc. Related Links https://www.fusemachines.com NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- About Artificial Intelligence Courses AI is defined as a computer technology that performs tasks, which previously required human intelligence and manual support. At present, working professionals are availing AI certifications for advances in their career and to effectively contribute to business trends. By learning and developing AI skills, they can take a strategic and thoughtful approach to their career development. On doing so they get to understand AI concepts, and can easily identify and eliminate errors with the use of algorithms and processes. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05144590 Technavio's analysts forecast the global artificial intelligence courses in BFSI sector to grow at a CAGR of 37.78% during the period 2017-2021. Covered in this report The report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global artificial intelligence courses in BFSI sector for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from the AI certification courses segment in prominent geographies, which include North America, Europe, APAC, and ROW. The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: Americas APAC Europe ROW Technavio's report, Global Artificial Intelligence Courses In BFSI Sector 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market. Key vendors Hong Kong Securities and Investment Institute EDUCBA IBM futuretext Other prominent vendors Ivy Data Science CFTE Infosys Byte Academy Market driver Increasing use of AI technology for cost reduction and quality research For a full, detailed list, view our report Market challenge Challenges related to patenting and protecting data For a full, detailed list, view our report Market trend Emerging cybersecurity professional training For a full, detailed list, view our report Key questions answered in this report What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be? What are the key market trends? What is driving this market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key vendors in this market space? You can request one free hour of our analyst's time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05144590 About Reportlinker ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place. https://www.reportlinker.com __________________________ Contact Clare: [email protected] US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001 SOURCE Reportlinker Related Links http://www.reportlinker.com NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- About Chocolate Beer Chocolate beer is a beer that contains dark chocolate or cocoa. The most popular segments of chocolate beer are chocolate ale, chocolate stouts, and chocolate lager. Chocolate beer is more popular in the European and American countries. The growth of the chocolate beer market in these regions is mostly triggered by the increasing demand by the millennial population. The chocolate beer market is still in its nascent stage in APAC. Chocolate beer is slowly becoming popular among consumers in countries such as China and India and offers huge growth potential for players in the global chocolate beer market. The pubs and bars in India have begun offering chocolate beer to their consumers. The increasing number of craft breweries globally is another factor which will help the market grow during the forecast period. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05144588 Technavio's analysts forecast the global chocolate beer market to grow at a CAGR of 11.58% during the period 2017-2021. Covered in this report The report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global chocolate beer market for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the sale of chocolate beer to individual consumers. The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: Americas APAC EMEA Technavio's report, Global Chocolate Beer 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 The Boston Beer Company D.G. Yeungling & Sons Anheuser-Busch InBev New Belgium Brewing Company Sierra Nevada Brewing Other prominent vendors Bell's Brewery BrewDog BUXTON BREWERY Celt Experience Brewery Deschutes Brewery Dogfish Head Craft Brewery Himburgs Braukunstkeller Minhas Craft Brewery New Glarus Brewing Company Omer Vander Ghinste Oskar Blues Brewing Stone Brewing SweetWater Brewing Company The Brooklyn Brewery Thornbridge Riverside Brewery Market driver Increasing number of craft breweries globally For a full, detailed list, view our report Market challenge Distribution challenges For a full, detailed list, view our report Market trend Online sales For a full, detailed list, view our report Key questions answered in this report What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be? What are the key market trends? What is driving this market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key vendors in this market space? You can request one free hour of our analyst's time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05144588 About Reportlinker ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place. https://www.reportlinker.com __________________________ Contact Clare: [email protected] US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001 SOURCE Reportlinker Related Links http://www.reportlinker.com NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- About Rice Transplanter Machine The rice transplanter machine was introduced in Japan by Kubota during the 1960s. It is specifically designed for transplanting rice seedlings in paddy fields. Farmers are required to drive the machine along a straight line to transplant the seedlings in rows. The rice planter comprised of three parts, namely the motor, running gear, and transplanter device. The transplanter consists of a seedling tray, seeding tray shifter, and pickup forks. The seedlings are fed into the seedling trays from where they are picked up by the forks and placed into the ground. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05144583 Technavio's analysts forecast the global rice transplanter machine market to grow at a CAGR of 9.35% during the period 2017-2021. Covered in this report The report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global rice transplanter machine market for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the include/exclude new installations/shipments/sales/volume/value and retrofit/replacement/spares/aftermarket/services market. The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: Americas APAC EMEA Technavio's report, Global Rice Transplanter Machine 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 Kubota Iseki Yanmar Other prominent vendors TYM Jiangsu World Agriculture Machinery CLAAS Mitsubishi Mahindra Agricultural Machinery Changfa Agricultural Equipment Shandong Fuerwo Agricultural Equipment Dongfeng Agricultural Machinery Market driver Shift toward mechanization For a full, detailed list, view our report Market challenge Lack of finances for small farmers to replace old machinery For a full, detailed list, view our report Market trend Product innovation For a full, detailed list, view our report Key questions answered in this report What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be? What are the key market trends? What is driving this market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key vendors in this market space? You can request one free hour of our analyst's time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05144583 About Reportlinker ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place. https://www.reportlinker.com __________________________ Contact Clare: [email protected] US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001 SOURCE Reportlinker Related Links http://www.reportlinker.com "We are honored to be named a finalist for this prestigious Gama Innovation Award," said Woody Swink, Co-President of McCall Farms. "Our new Glory Farms See-Thru can is the most notable packaging innovation in canned vegetables since canning was invented in the early 1800's. When the consumer can see the vegetables it not only says "fresh" but also gives them a sense of trust because they see what they are buying. It's truly, quality you can see." The TruVue plastic can was developed in partnership with Sonoco Products, a global packaging leader. The Gama Innovation Awards recognize outstanding innovation in the FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) space, with finalists selected by Gama's global network of in-country researchers and analysts. Gama Innovation Director Silvia Ruiz commented, "In putting together the short lists for each category we analyzed hundreds of products from over 40 countries, selecting only the ground-breaking few for consideration." The overall winner in each category of the Gama Innovation Awards, as voted by an international panel of prestigious industry judges, will be announced in a ceremony to take place on October 25, 2017 in Manchester, United Kingdom at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall. "Clear cans give a new meaning to transparency in the preserved vegetable category," writes the Gama Innovation Awards team. "The Glory Farms 'clear can' technology could allow canned foods to compete on a more equal footing with non-preserved alternatives in perceptions of freshness, quality, nutritional benefits and flavour." Glory Farms uses only premium vegetables that are slow-cooked at lower temperatures to lock-in their flavors. A new pop-top lid adds convenience for preparing delicious meals and side dishes. Varieties include: Garbanzo Beans, Pinto Beans, Green Lima Beans, Light Red Kidney Beans, Dark Red Kidney Beans, Great Northern Beans and Blackeye Peas. About McCall Farms McCall Farms is one of America's leading producers of farm-fresh canned vegetables and fruits. Established in 1838, McCall Farms employs over 1,000 people in its 900,000-square foot manufacturing facility and corporate offices in Effingham, SC. The family-owned and operated company produces a wide variety of high-quality, Southern-style products under four nationally distributed brands: Glory Foods, Margaret Holmes, Peanut Patch and Bruce's Yams. New Glory Farms continues to expand distribution in 2017. For more information on Glory Farms, visit gloryfarms.com. For McCall Farms, visit mccallfarms.com About Gama Gama is a global provider of business information and services specializing in innovation and international trade. Through our worldwide network of over 100 specialists in 46 countries, we offer high-quality news, research, analysis and partnering services, delivering compelling insights and supporting you to unlock new business opportunities. www.gamaconsumer.com SOURCE McCall Farms Presentations by GTL speakers will highlight the key benefits being delivered by tablet technology and education in correctional facilities RESTON, Va., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- GTL today announced its participation at the prestigious International Corrections & Prisons Association (ICPA) Annual Conference. This year's conference, "Innovation in Rehabilitation: Building Better Futures," takes place October 2227 in London, England, and will bring together participants from over 70 countries to exchange ideas, technology, and best practices regarding the corrections industry. "ICPA has spent almost two decades organizing conferences that bring big-name correctional players from around the world to discuss the latest solutions that assist correctional services, inmate populations, and friends and family members of inmates. We are thrilled to announce that GTL is the Global Event Sponsor for ICPA's 19th annual conference, hosted by Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)," said Gad Tobaly, President, GTL International. GTL and its UK partner, British Telecom (BT) have in-depth experience and understanding of the needs of both correctional facilities and inmates. Together the two companies are unrivalled in their knowledge of how technology can deliver better outcomesimproving productivity and efficiency, reducing costs, andmost importantlyreducing recidivism and assisting inmates in re-integrating more effectively into society. BT has a long-standing record of working across local and national government and 'blue light' services, working with them in addressing the major challenges they face, and applying innovative technologies to address operational and strategic priorities. Colm O'Neill, Managing Director, Major Customers and Public Sector, BT, said: "BT and GTL both have a passion for delivering innovative solutions into the public sector. BT's PINPhone system is used in all public prisons in England and Wales and GTL is a world leader in enabling true prison reform. We've been working with GTL for several years to help correctional institutions and prisons to overcome the key challenges they face and transform them into truly digital organizations." Mr. Tobaly and senior executives from GTL will be at the conference to introduce attendees to innovative technologies that are beneficial for facilities, inmates, their friends and family members, and society at large. On Monday, October 23rd, Brian Peters, GTL Vice President of Facility Product Management, and Dr. Turner Nashe, GTL Senior Vice President of Education Content, will present at the conference on how tablet technology and education solutions are delivering real and measurable benefits in today's correctional facilities and what the future might hold. In his presentation, Mr. Peters will discuss "How Tablet Technology is Ushering in a New Age in Corrections Practical Use Cases" at 1:30 p.m. in the Chalon room, and Dr. Nashe will discuss "Educating the Correctional Ecosystem Increasing Officer Knowledge, Rehabilitating Inmates, and Reducing Recidivism" at 3:30 p.m. in the Chalon room. "As a company, our focus is on innovation to reduce recidivism, support rehabilitation, and make societies safer, no matter their location," added Mr. Tobaly. "Our attendance at the conference, and the presentations by Mr. Peters and Dr. Nashe, will allow us to reach a broad international audience, showing correctional facilities from around the globe how their facilities can significantly benefit from the application of tried and tested technologies and education processes." About GTL GTL leads the fields of correctional technology, education, and government payment services with visionary solutions and customized products that integrate seamlessly to deliver security, financial value, and operational efficiencies while aiding inmate rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates. With the recent acquisition of Telmate, GTL has strengthened its suite of solutions for the corrections industry and expanded its community corrections portfolio with Telmate Guardian, a smartphone-based GPS monitoring solution. As a trusted industry leader, GTL provides services to over 2 million inmates in more than 2,500 correctional facilities in the United States and Canada, including 33 U.S. departments of corrections, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and many large city/county/provincial facilities. GTL is headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with an employee presence throughout North America. To learn more about GTL, please visit www.gtl.net or social media sites on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Press Contact: Vinnie Mascarenhas 703-955-3894 [email protected] SOURCE GTL Related Links http://www.gtl.net STOCKTON, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Guardian Alliance Technologies (GAT), a leader in background, investigative-screening software announces a strategic endorsement from FBI National Academy Associates Immediate Past President, Captain Barry Thomas, a decorated leader among the nation's law enforcement elite. In bringing awareness to its solutions-based software, Guardian Alliance Technologies began earning the support of local leaders of influence within the law enforcement profession. Among them, Captain Barry Thomas, a renowned leader, recognized for his leadership merits and community service awards. New Advisory Board Member at Guardian Alliance Technologies, Inc Shortly after reviewing the software's features and functionality, Captain Thomas placed his support behind the technology company with law enforcement at its core. Upon recognizing the value of having a software solution like Guardian to automate certain outdated, manual processes that were still in use since before there were computers, Captain Thomas chose to endorse Guardian Alliance Technologies for their breakthrough, background investigative-screening software. Of the company, he said: "I've always been an advocate of any person, group or program that has something beneficial to offer the law enforcement profession. Guardian's software fits that mold as it will help those officers involved in the background screening process to have a better, more efficient experience while performing their duties. Because of who they are as people and what they produce as a product, it is easy to get behind the Guardian program and the team over at Guardian Alliance Technologies." Widely recognized by officers and citizens alike as among one of the finer law enforcement officers to have worn the badge, Captain Barry Thomas' passion for law enforcement is exemplified in the various capacities he has served in over the course of his notable career, earning several awards for service throughout. While serving, he was privileged to uphold several key roles including Jail and Patrol Deputy, Crime Prevention Officer, Field Training Officer and Supervisor. Other duties demonstrating his commitment to community and country were time spent as Emergency Response Team member and commander, Dive Team member, Public Information Officer, Sergeant, Administrative Lieutenant and his current position of Chief Deputy. Captain Thomas currently serves as the Immediate Past President of the FBI National Academy Associates. With a global membership of nearly 17,000, representing 170 countries, the FBINAA is recognized as the world's strongest law enforcement network. As a member of the National Sheriff's Association, the Iowa State Sheriffs and Deputies Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association, Captain Thomas has an intricate understanding of the roles and functions of the various law enforcement positions he has filled and led. Additionally, he also served in the capacity of Executive Director and Chair of the Board of Directors for Safe Call Now, a non-profit organization based in the Seattle, WA. Area. Some of Captain Thomas' other notable accomplishments are previously serving as a member of the Board of Directors for the ACCESS shelter in Ames, IA and for the Iowa Crime Prevention Association. Captain Thomas earned his Bachelors of Liberal Studies degree from Iowa State University in 2002 and a Master of Criminal Justice degree from Boston University in 2005. He is also a graduate of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy and the F.B.I. National Academy, Session 223. In July of 2008, Captain Thomas was presented with the distinguished, Livio A. Beccaccio Award from the FBI National Academy Associates. The Livio A. Beccaccio Award is a living memorial presented annually to an FBI National Academy Associate member who has demonstrated exemplary character through an act of heroism, outstanding community service, innovation in law enforcement, or leadership reflective of that by which FBI Special Agent, Livio A. Beccaccio lived. For his years of service, experience, and commitment to the core principle of every law enforcement officer- to serve and protect citizens, Guardian Alliance Technologies is honored to have a true hero in their ranks. In December of 2008, Captain Thomas was presented with the Sullivan Brothers' Award of Valor by Iowa Governor Chet Culver. Captain Thomas received the award for a June 8th, 2007 incident in which he saved a young girl's life by disarming a knife-wielding assailant with his bare hands. Captain Barry Thomas was exactly the kind of proponent that Guardian Alliance Technologies had hoped for when they set out to release their industry-transforming software. The endorsement by such a highly decorated officer among the leadership elite within the law enforcement industry is a rare privilege that few startup companies ever obtain. Captain Thomas' endorsement has been a beneficial factor in the company's brand awareness/brand recognition initiatives. Speaking to the credibility of Captain Barry Thomas' support, Guardian Alliance Technologies founder and president, Justin Biedinger states: "I am very humbled and honored to have Capt. Barry Thomas shows his support for our cause by joining our team. He is highly respected in the Law Enforcement community and is a man of integrity and high standards. He is exactly what Guardian represents." Biedinger, a former law enforcement officer himself with experience in the background, investigative-screening process- envisions seeing their software being used throughout the country by law enforcement agencies of every size and division. Sharing in that same vision, Captain Thomas shared this when asked about where he could see the company in the days ahead: "I see Guardian software in every law enforcement agency around the country, who chooses to take advantage of their program, whether they are local, county, state or federal. Guardian can drastically help improve agencies through streamlining some of these outdated and archaic processes that have been in place since before there were computers. What they need to understand is that the Guardian software platform still allows for these time-tested processes to be done but expedites the way they are done, saving them time, energy and to help them make better use of limited departmental resources. Having Captain Barry Thomas' endorsement is a huge win for Guardian Alliance Technologies, who themselves won their first and second rounds of venture capital funding within the first few days of launching. This speaks volumes to the company's commitment to law enforcement, its understanding of the agency's inner-workings and to the effectiveness of Guardian's solutions-based platform. With a like-minded vision of having more capable and qualified officers patrolling our streets and protecting our citizens, Captain Barry Thomas and Guardian have aligned themselves to see this shared desire, come to fruition. With Guardian's proprietary, background investigative-screening engine, agencies can now streamline and simplify this process while still maintaining the integrity and proven methodologies involved in the carrying out of this time-honored craft. In a show of solidarity to the company's vision, Captain Thomas regularly offers his expertise and guidance as an Advisory Board Member. His parting comments attest to the commitment he has pledged to the company, its products and to the law enforcement industry he has come to love and invest his life into: "Guardian Software is simply amazing! During my 26-year law enforcement career, I've never seen a product more efficient or effective in streamlining the hiring process. Guardian is going to revolutionize the way agencies conduct the hiring process and the end result will be a cost saving to the agency and better officers on the street. As an Advisory Board member, I couldn't be prouder of the company; as an end-user, I couldn't be happier with the product." Related Links Officer Safety & Wellness - Treatment Placement Specialists Latest trends in law enforcement software SOURCE Guardian Alliance Technologies "We're in the midst of one of the largest housing disasters we have ever experienced in the United States," said Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford. "Not since Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast have we seen so many Americans displaced from their homes and desperate for safe and decent shelter. Just as we were there after Katrina, Sandy, the Haiti earthquake and so many other disasters, Habitat for Humanity will be there for the families hit by Harvey, Irma and Maria." Reckford made the announcement in Houston where Habitat volunteers and partners joined together to repair homes that were heavily damaged by flood waters during Hurricane Harvey. Habitat for Humanity has so far secured $15 million in commitments toward its goal of $100 million to support the rebuilding plan. It is seeking support from corporations, government grants and individual donors to fulfill its commitment. Four organizationsthe Dow Chemical Company, General Motors, Thrivent Financial and representatives of America's wind energy companiesmade contributions of $1 million or more following hurricanes Harvey and Irma and serve as keystone partners of the Habitat Hammers Back initiative. "We couldn't do this work without the incredibly generous support of our partners like Dow, GM, Thrivent and the American wind energy industry," Reckford said. "We need more supporters to step up and contribute so we can partner with families who most need our help. Please visit habitat.org/hurricanes to learn more and donate." Habitat has set an initial goal to help more than 2,000 families in each of Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico. In Texas and Florida, efforts will be focused on home repairs and new construction for storm-affected families over the next three to five years. For Puerto Rico, Habitat is in the process of assembling 2,000 shelter repair kits for distribution on the island as the initial response phase. Habitat will continue assessing the situation in Puerto Rico as conditions allow and determine construction plans following the evaluations. Families that wish to learn more about possible assistance can call 1-800-HABITAT. More information about Habitat's hurricane response work is available at habitat.org/hurricanes. About Habitat for Humanity Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in southern Georgia. The Christian housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in more than 1,300 communities throughout the U.S. and in more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitat.org. SOURCE Habitat for Humanity International Related Links http://www.habitat.org As leaders in the hospitality industry, the MacQueens used the tour, in part, for research related to their business, visiting hotels in various cultures. Opportunities to see the HondaJet were provided in the world through static displays and demo flights. "I am pleased to welcome our esteemed customers back to the United States and excited to see the spirit of adventure Julian and Kim demonstrated with their HondaJet. The HondaJet enriches people's lives in various ways and I hope HondaJet continues to create new value for people," said Honda Aircraft President & CEO Michimasa Fujino. "A great many people around the world who saw the HondaJet in person showed a high level of interest and their excitement has been remarkable." "The trip was the perfect opportunity to gain exposure to different cultures, fascinating people and awe-inspiring accommodationsall from the quiet and efficient comfort of our HondaJet," said Julian MacQueen. "We selected the HondaJet for this world tour based on its innovative design and quality promisewe couldn't be happier with this decision." Along the way, the MacQueens compiled an impressive list of achievements in their HondaJet. They set five speed records, including Pensacola, Florida to Greensboro, North Carolina; Keflavik, Iceland to Shannon, Ireland; Shannon, Ireland to Lisbon, Portugal; Ammon, Jordan to Dubai, United Arab Emirates; and Khabarovsk, Russia to Anchorage, Alaska. About HondaJet The HondaJet is the fastest, highest-flying, quietest, and most fuel-efficient jet in its class. The HondaJet incorporates many technological innovations in aviation design, including the unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration that dramatically improves performance and fuel efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag. The OTWEM design also reduces cabin sound, minimizes ground-detected noise, and allows for the roomiest cabin in its class, the largest baggage capacity, and a fully serviceable private aft lavatory. The HondaJet is equipped with the most sophisticated glass flight deck available in any light business jet, a Honda-customized Garmin G3000 The HondaJet is Honda's first commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality and value. About Honda Aircraft Company Honda Aircraft Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Founded in 2006, Honda Aircraft's world headquarters is located in North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation. The challenging spirit upon which Mr. Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is alive today as Honda Aircraft fulfills one of Honda's longstanding dreams to advance human mobility skyward. SOURCE Honda Aircraft Company Related Links http://www.hondajet.com IAMGOLD's President and CEO, Steve Letwin, commented, "The NI 43-101 maiden resource estimate for Saramacca confirms the significance of this gold discovery, and adds to the substantial resource increase reported at Rosebel just over a month ago. With an estimate surpassing our expectations and a deposit that remains open, our transformative strategy to consolidate prospective land packages around Rosebel continues to add significant value for IAMGOLD shareholders." Craig MacDougall, Senior Vice President, Exploration for IAMGOLD, stated, " The initial resource estimate reported for the Saramacca deposit today is the culmination of an outstanding effort by our exploration and support teams, who have worked tirelessly to advance the project since the commencement of exploration activities last September. These initial results not only exceed our expectations, but we are excited about the potential to further expand the current resources and to make additional discoveries on the property. I congratulate the exploration team for the well-executed and safely-completed exploration program leading to today's announcement." The mineral resource for the Saramacca deposit incorporates assay results from 307 diamond and reverse circulation drill holes spaced at approximately 50 x 50 metres and totalling approximately 47,000 metres, including 217 holes totalling 37,700 metres completed by IAMGOLD. The estimate was prepared using a block model constrained with 3D wireframes of the principal mineralized domains. Values for gold were interpolated into blocks using ordinary kriging (OK). An open pit optimization algorithm was run on the block model to constrain the resource and to support the CIM requirement that Mineral Resources have 'reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction'. The resource estimate assumes a long-term gold price of US$1,500/ounce. Only mineralization contained within the preliminary pit shell has been included in the resource estimate. It is meaningful to note that the pit shell generated extends to the base of the defined resources in some of the higher grade zones of the deposit. The effective date of this resource estimate is August 28, 2017. A supporting NI 43-101 Technical Report will be filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com no later than 45 days after the date of this release. MINERAL RESOURCE STATEMENT - SARAMACCA GOLD PROJECT, SURINAME August 28, 2017 Category Weathering Zone Cut-off Grade (g/t Au) Tonnage (000s t) Grade (g/t Au) Contained Au (000s oz) Indicated Laterite 0.25 2,372 1.20 91 Saprolite 0.25 5,573 2.43 436 Transition 0.35 2,526 2.17 176 Fresh 0.45 3,973 2.49 318 Total Indicated 14,444 2.20 1,022 Inferred Laterite 0.25 4,455 0.69 98 Saprolite 0.25 4,790 0.82 126 Transition 0.35 1,349 1.97 86 Fresh 0.45 3,039 2.13 208 Total Inferred 13,632 1.18 518 Notes: 1. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and have not demonstrated economic viability. 2. CIM definitions were followed for classification of Mineral Resources. 3. Cut-off grades are 0.25 g/t Au for laterite and saprolite, 0.35 g/t Au for transition and 0.45 g/t Au for fresh rock. 4. Mineral Resources are reported using a gold price of US$1,500 per ounce. 5. Mineral Resources are constrained by a Whittle optimized pit shell. 6. All figures have been rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimates. Discrepancies in sums occur due to rounding. In support of the mineral resource estimate, preliminary metallurgical test work was completed by ALS Metallurgical Laboratories in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, on thirteen composite samples prepared from drill core obtained from the Saramacca drilling program. The results suggest that gold recoveries averaging approximately 97% in oxide, 76% in transition and 82% in fresh rock can be expected from a conventional gravity and leach/carbon in leach (CIL) circuit. Further testing is recommended to further optimize gold recoveries. About the Saramacca Project The Saramacca project is strategically located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of the Rosebel Gold Mine processing facility. Mineralization is hosted in the Paramaka Formation within the lower part of the Marowijne Greenstone Belt, which is dominated by metamorphosed basalt and andesite lithologies in the project area. These are traversed by the regional, northwest trending Saramacca shear zone, an important deformation zone for the localization of gold mineralization. Drilling has confirmed the presence of multiple mineralized structures within an approximately 2-kilometre long and 400-metre wide corridor. Mineralization occurs in the near surface oxidized weathering profile to depths ranging from 50 to 100 metres, as well as deeper in primary sulphide zones. In the deposit area, three mineralization styles are recognized from the drilling completed to date: breccia hosted mineralization characterized by jigsaw, crackle and matrix supported breccias; shear hosted mineralization characterized by well-developed pyritic disseminations and stringers; and irregular pyrite-quartz-carbonate veins which locally carry high gold grades. On August 30, 2016, the Company signed a letter of intent with the Government of Suriname to acquire rights to the Saramacca property, with the intent of defining a National Instrument 43-101 mineral resource within 24 months. The terms of the letter included an initial payment of $0.2 million, which enabled immediate access to the property for Rosebel's exploration team to conduct due diligence, as well as access to the data from previous exploration activity at the Saramacca property. On September 30, 2016, having been satisfied with the results of the due diligence, the Company ratified the letter of intent to acquire the Saramacca property and subsequently paid $10 million in cash and agreed to issue 3.125 million IAMGOLD common shares to the Government of Suriname in three approximately equal annual instalments on each successive anniversary of the date the right of exploration was transferred to Rosebel (December 2016). In addition, the agreement provides for a potential upward adjustment to the purchase price based on the contained gold ounces identified by Rosebel in National Instrument 43-101 measured and indicated resource categories, within a certain Whittle shell within the first 24 months, to a maximum of $10 million. The Saramacca project falls within the "UJV" area as defined in an Agreement with the Government of Suriname announced on April 15, 2013. The Agreement establishes a joint venture growth vehicle under which Rosebel would hold a 70% participating interest and the Government will acquire a 30% participating interest on a fully-paid basis. Next Steps With the results of the initial resource estimate now in hand, a follow up drilling program is expected to commence this quarter with the objective to: 1) increase the confidence in the current resources and convert inferred resources to indicated; 2) target expansions to the existing resource along known mineralized trends and at depth, and 3) evaluate identified exploration targets for the presence of additional mineralized zones. A program of approximately 20,000 metres of diamond and reverse circulation drilling is planned for completion during the remainder of 2017. In addition to the drilling program outlined above, the Rosebel mine team is working to advance the Saramacca deposit towards production. An Environmental and Social Impact Study (ESIA) is already underway as the fundamental element in the permitting process. Preliminary engineering work has been undertaken on mine design, and infrastructure elements such as ore transport options, access roads, and waste rock disposal. In addition to the exploration work planned for the next phase, field work will commence soon on geotechnical investigation and condemnation work. Additional, comprehensive metallurgical testing will also be undertaken to refine the recovery assumptions, to test the crushing and grinding characteristics of the ore, and to investigate the metallurgical variability across the ore deposit. Using the new block model as a basis, new mine designs and integrated scheduling with the main Rosebel resources will commence soon, and will continue to be advanced as additional geologic and engineering information becomes available. It is our intention to complete the permitting work and to generate a preliminary reserve estimate for Saramacca during the first half of 2018 and to work toward initial production in 2019. Forward Looking Statement This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding expected, estimated or planned gold production, all-in sustaining costs and other cost estimates, capital expenditures and exploration expenditures and statements regarding the estimation of mineral resources and mineral reserves, exploration results, life-of-mine estimates and potential mineral resources and mineral reserves) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of the words "may", "will", "should", "continue", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "prospective", "significant", "significant potential", "substantial", transformative", "intend", "plan" or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict, that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, without limitation, failure to meet expected, estimated or planned gold production, unexpected increases in all-in sustaining costs or other costs, unexpected increases in capital expenditures and exploration expenditures, variation in the mineral content within the material identified as mineral resources and mineral reserves from that predicted, changes in development or mining plans due to changes in logistical, technical or other factors, the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, changes in world gold markets and other risks disclosed in IAMGOLD's most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement. Qualified Persons and Technical Information The mineral resource estimate, including verification of the data disclosed, has been completed by SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. ("SRK") and reported in accordance with NI 43-101 requirements and CIM Estimation Best Practice Guidelines. The resource estimate was prepared by Mr. Glen Cole, P.Geo., Principal Resource Geologist and Dr. Oy Leuangthong, P.Eng., Principal Geostatistician with SRK. Both Mr. Cole and Dr. Leuangthong, who are independent qualified persons under NI 43-101, have reviewed and approved the contents of this release. The information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Craig MacDougall, P.Geo., Senior Vice President, Exploration for IAMGOLD. Mr. MacDougall is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Notes to Investors Regarding the Use of Resources Cautionary Note to Investors Concerning Estimates of Measured and Indicated Resources This news release uses the term "indicated resources". We advise investors that while that term is recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") does not recognize them. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves. Cautionary Note to Investors Concerning Estimates of Inferred Resources This news release also uses the term "inferred resources". We advise investors that while this term is recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the SEC does not recognize it. "Inferred resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in rare cases. Investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable. Scientific and Technical Disclosure IAMGOLD is reporting mineral resource estimates in accordance with the CIM guidelines for the estimation, classification and reporting of resources. Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors The SEC limits disclosure for U.S. reporting purposes to mineral deposits that a company can economically and legally extract or produce. IAMGOLD uses certain terms in this news release, such as "measured," "indicated," or "inferred," which may not be consistent with the resource definitions established by the SEC. U.S. investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in the IAMGOLD Annual Reports on Forms 40-F. You can review and obtain copies of these filings from the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml or by contacting the Investor Relations department. The Canadian Securities Administrators' NI 43-101 requires mining companies to disclose reserves and resources using the subcategories of "proven" reserves, "probable" reserves, "measured" resources, "indicated" resources and "inferred" resources. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not demonstrate economic viability. A mineral resource is a concentration or occurrence of natural, solid, inorganic material, or natural, solid fossilized organic material including base and precious metals in or on the Earth's crust in such form and quantity and of such a grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a mineral resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge. A measured mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity. An indicated mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed. An inferred mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes. Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable. A feasibility study is a comprehensive technical and economic study of the selected development option for a mineral project that includes appropriately detailed assessments of realistically assumed mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social and governmental considerations together with any other relevant operational factors and detailed financial analysis, that are necessary to demonstrate at the time of reporting that extraction is reasonably justified (economically mineable). The results of the study may reasonably serve as the basis for a final decision by a proponent or financial institution to proceed with, or finance, the development of the project. The confidence level of the study will be higher than that of a Pre-Feasibility Study. A Pre-Feasibility Study is a comprehensive study of a range of options for the technical and economic viability of a mineral project that has advanced to a stage where a preferred mining method, in the case of underground mining, or the pit configuration, in the case of an open pit, is established and an effective method of mineral processing is determined. It includes a financial analysis based on reasonable assumptions on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social and governmental considerations and the evaluation of any other relevant factors which are sufficient for a qualified person, acting reasonably, to determine if all or part of the Mineral Resource may be classified as a Mineral Reserve. CONFERENCE CALL A conference call will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time) for a discussion with management regarding the mineral resource estimate for Saramacca. A webcast of the conference call will also be available through IAMGOLD`s website - www.iamgold.com. Conference Call Information: North America Toll-Free: 1-800-319-4610 or 1-604-638-5340. A replay of this conference call will be accessible for one month following the call by dialing: North America toll-free: 1-800-319-6413 or 1-604-638-9010, passcode: 1658#. About IAMGOLD IAMGOLD (www.iamgold.com) is a mid-tier mining company with four operating gold mines on three continents. A solid base of strategic assets in North and South America and West Africa is complemented by development and exploration projects and continued assessment of accretive acquisition opportunities. IAMGOLD is in a strong financial position with extensive management and operational expertise. Please note: This entire news release may be accessed via fax, e-mail, IAMGOLD's website at www.iamgold.com and through CNW Group's website at www.newswire.ca. All material information on IAMGOLD can be found at www.sedar.com or at www.sec.gov. Si vous desirez obtenir la version francaise de ce communique, veuillez consulter le http://www.iamgold.com/French/accueil/default.aspx. SOURCE IAMGOLD Corporation Related Links http://www.iamgold.com WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ICMA-RC announced today that Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts (LACSD) has selected ICMA-RC as their 457(b) retirement plan administrator. LACSD is a public agency created under the California Health and Safety Code to manage wastewater and solid waste on a regional scale. With 24 independent special districts, LACSD serves millions in Los Angeles County, California. LACSD is a former client of ICMA-RC and is returning after approximately eighteen months with another provider. ICMA-RC will administer close to $300 million for approximately 2,000 employees investing at the LACSD. "We are delighted to return to ICMA-RC as our plan administrator," said Tom Mueller, Chief Accountant at Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts. "Based on past experience, ICMA-RC's mission and focus on serving public sector employees while delivering strong services is what sets the organization apart for local government employees." "We have a successful history with LACSD and are incredibly pleased to have the opportunity to work with such a great organization once again," said Bob Schultze, President and CEO of ICMA-RC. "We have demonstrated our ability to provide exceptional client support and financial services to the LACSD employees and we look forward to continuing with our positive partnership." ICMA-RC's mission is to serve the public sector, which makes the company an attractive option. The organization has more than 45 years' experience serving the public sector; offering a comprehensive understanding of its client base. ICMA-RC is fully committed to building retirement security through actively engaging local and state government participants in their retirement programs, helping them build their retirement savings, and assisting them in reaching their overall retirement goals. About ICMA-RC Founded in 1972, ICMA-RC is a non-profit independent financial services corporation with approximately $54 billion in assets under management and administration (as of September 30, 2017) focused on providing retirement plans and related services for over a million public sector participant accounts. For more information, visit www.icmarc.org or follow ICMA-RC on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. SOURCE ICMA-RC Related Links http://www.icmarc.org (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130122/589162 ) Common television interaction (4:15 p.m. IST; 6:45 a.m. ET) Following the release, the leadership team will be part of a common television interaction at 4:15 p.m. IST. The participating executives will address questions from the media during this interaction which will be streamed live on the Investor Relations section of the Infosys website. An archive of this event will be uploaded on http://www.infosys.com after 6:00 p.m. IST on October 24, 2017 (after 8:30 a.m. US ET). Earnings call (6:15 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. IST; 8:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. ET) The company will conduct a single 90 minute conference call at 6:15 p.m. IST (8:45 a.m. US ET; 5:45 a.m. PST; 1:45 p.m. London time; 8:45 p.m. Singapore/Hong Kong time) on October 24, 2017 (open to investors / analysts in all regions), where the senior management will discuss the company's performance and answer questions from participants. To participate in the conference call, please dial the numbers provided below 10 - 15 minutes before the scheduled start time of the call. During this time, the operator will provide instructions on how to ask questions. As participation in the call is limited, early registration (by calling the numbers 10 - 15 minutes before the scheduled start time) is encouraged. This event will be webcast live on the Investor Relations section of the Infosys website, following which it will be archived at http://www.infosys.com. The archive will be available after 9:00 p.m. IST on October 24, 2017 (after 11:30 a.m. US ET on October 24, 2017). In addition, a transcript of the conference call will be available at http://www.infosys.com. Summary of events Event Date and Time Web-site / Channel Telephone / Fax No. Earnings release 3:45 p.m. IST http://www.infosys.com over the wire 6:15 a.m. ET services October 24, 2017 Live broadcast 4:15 p.m. IST Business television of management's 6:45 a.m. ET channels comments on the results October 24, 2017 Webcast of 5:00 p.m. IST http://www.infosys.com management's comment on the 7:30 a.m. ET results October 24, 2017 Earnings 6:15 p.m. - http://www.infosys.com Toll, Mumbai: conference call 7:45p.m. IST 022 3938 1098 (open to questions for 8:45 a.m. - India Toll, Bangalore: investors / 10:15a.m. ET 080 3940 3977 analysts in all regions) October 24, 2017 Questions during the call can be addressed to [email protected] Singapore Toll-free: 800 101 2045 Toll-number: +65 3157 5746 Hong Kong Toll-free: 800 964 448 Toll-number: +852 3018 6877 Japan Toll-free: 0 053 116 1110 Toll-number: +81 3 4589 9421 UK Toll-free: 0 808 101 1573 Toll-number: +44 203 478 5524 Germany Toll-free: 00 8001 424 3444 Canada Toll- free: 011 8001 424 3444 France Toll-free: 0 800 914 745 US Toll-free: 1 866 746 2133 Toll-number: +1 323 386 8721 Replay of Till October 30, http://www.infosys.com Toll-free: conference call 2017 USA 1 855 436 0715 International toll: +1 863 949 0105 Toll, Mumbai/India: 022 3065 2322 Toll, Bangalore: 080 3940 3988 Passcode:4637# About Infosys Ltd. 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 (NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise thrive in the digital age. Safe Harbor Certain statements mentioned in this 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. 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. Contact Investor Relations Sandeep Mahindroo +91-80-3980-1018 [email protected] Media Relations Sarah Vanita Gideon +91-80-4156-3998 [email protected] Chiku Somaiya +1-7136706752 [email protected] SOURCE Infosys DALLAS, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE: INVH) ("Invitation Homes" or the "Company") today announced that it will release its third quarter 2017 financial and operating results on Wednesday, November 8, 2017, after the market closes. The Company will host a conference call on Thursday, November 9, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern time to review third quarter results, discuss recent events, and conduct a question-and-answer session. The conference call will be available via webcast on the Invitation Homes Investor Relations website at www.invh.com. To participate in the live telephone conference call: Domestic Dial-in Number: 1-888-317-6003 International Dial-in Number: 1-412-317-6061 Passcode: 4736703 To access a telephone replay of the call: Domestic Dial-in Number: 1-877-344-7529 International Dial-in Number: 1-412-317-0088 Passcode: 10113181 Date Accessible Through: December 9, 2017 About Invitation Homes: Invitation Homes is a leading owner and operator of single-family homes for lease, offering residents high-quality homes in desirable neighborhoods across America. With nearly 50,000 homes for lease in 13 markets across the country, Invitation Homes is meeting changing lifestyle demands by providing residents access to updated homes with features they value, such as close proximity to jobs and access to good schools. The company's mission, "Together with you, we make a house a home," reflects its commitment to high-touch service that continuously enhances residents' living experiences and provides homes where individuals and families can thrive. Investor Relations Contact: Greg Van Winkle Phone: 844.456.INVH (4684) Email: [email protected] Media Relations Contact: Claire Parker Phone: 202.257.2329 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Invitation Homes Related Links http://www.invitationhomes.com/contact Government surplus marketplace GovPlanet extends contract with the Defense Logistics Agency and adds Defense Contract Management Agency to its client list PLEASANTON, CA, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - For the past three years, IronPlanet's GovPlanet marketplace has been helping the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) sell thousands of its surplus assets. After seeing consistently strong returns, the DLA has extended its contract with GovPlanet until at least September 2018. "We sell hundreds of items per week for the DLA through our GovPlanet marketplace, including construction equipment, trucks, trailers, Humvees and more," said Greg Owens, Group President, New Sectors & Ventures, Ritchie Bros. "Prior to their contract with us, the DLA sold all their surplus assetsboots, ammunition cans, uniforms, equipment, etc.to one general sales company, resulting in low returns. By selling through GovPlanet to our massive database of buyers, the DLA has achieved as much as 300 percent higher returns on their assets." Since the initial contract was signed with the Defense Logistics Agency in 2014, GovPlanet has sold more than 43,000 items for the agency, including 10,000+ Humvees, 4,700+ utility trailers, and 4,100+ cargo trucks. The contract has multi-year extension options, to be revisited and exercised by the DLA. GovPlanet was also recently selected by the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) to liquidate surplus industrial equipment for both its Eastern and Western regions. With the new contract, GovPlanet has the opportunity to expand to other DCMA regions. The DCMA is the Department of Defense (DoD) agency that works directly with defense suppliers to help ensure that DoD, federal, and allied government supplies and services are delivered on time, at projected cost, and meet all performance requirements. The DCMA directly contributes to the military readiness of the United States and its allies. "Our GovPlanet marketplace has only been in operation for three years, but is already providing great benefits for many government agencies. Having both the DLA and DCMA as clients shows confidence in our platform and the value it can provide more public-sector entities across the United States and around the globe," said Greg Owens. Each week, on average, GovPlanet draws close to 90,000 attendees to its online auctions. Items sold on GovPlanet come with IronPlanet's exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certifications, which give bidders the confidence to buy online. About GovPlanet: GovPlanet, a Ritchie Bros. solution, was launched in 2014 to address the specialized equipment disposition needs of public entities, from federal, including military, to state, local and municipal. Each week, on average, GovPlanet draws close to 90,000 attendees to its online auctions. Items go into preview two weeks in advance and bidders can view photos, video and inspection reports. All items sold on GovPlanet have been inspected and come with IronPlanet's exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certifications, which give bidders the confidence to buy online from anywhere in the world. About Ritchie Bros.: Established in 1958, Ritchie Bros. (NYSE and TSX: RBA) is a global asset management and disposition company, offering customers end-to-end solutions for buying and selling used heavy equipment, trucks and other assets. Operating in a multitude of sectors, including construction, transportation, agriculture, energy, oil and gas, mining, and forestry, the company's selling channels include: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer offers live auction events with online bidding; IronPlanet, an online marketplace with featured weekly auctions and providing its exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification; EquipmentOne, an online auction marketplace; Mascus, a leading European online equipment listing service; and Ritchie Bros. Private Treaty, offering privately negotiated sales. The company also offers sector-specific solutions including GovPlanet, TruckPlanet, Kruse Energy Auctioneers, and Cat auctions, plus equipment financing and leasing through Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. For more information about the unprecedented choice provided by Ritchie Bros., visit RitchieBros.com. Photos and video for embedding in media stories are available at rbauction.com/media. SOURCE Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Related Links www.rbauction.com LOS ALAMITOS, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and IEEE Computer Society (IEEE-CS) have named Jesus Labarta of the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) and Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya (UPC) as the recipient of the 2017 ACM/IEEE-CS Ken Kennedy Award. Labarta is recognized for his seminal contributions to programming models and performance analysis tools for high performance computing. The award will be presented at SC 17: The International Conference for High Performance Computing, Networking, Storage and Analysis , November 12-17, in Denver, Colorado. Throughout his career, Labarta has developed tools for scientists and engineers working in parallel programming. In the programming models area, he made fundamental contributions to the concept of asynchronous task-based models and intelligent runtime systems. With Labarta's approach, by using pragma directives that specify the region of code that constitutes tasks and the directionality of the data used by them, the programmer has a unified mechanism to allow intelligent runtime systems to detect and exploit concurrency as well as to manage locality. These ideas have been developed by Labarta's team on the OmpSs model and Nanos runtime. His team's work has also enhanced the interoperability between OmpSs (later Open multi-processing (MP)) and message passing interface (MPI). In the performance tools area, Labarta's team develops and distributes Open Source Barcelona Supercomputer Center (BSC) tools that are employed throughout the field. These BSC tools are designed to analyze an application's behavior and identify issues that may impact performance. Paraver, the most widely used BSC tool, is a trace-based performance analyzer that processes and extracts information. Other tools like Dimemas or the Performance Analytics modules developed by Labarta's team help squeeze relevant insight and perform predictive analyses from the raw performance data captured by the instrumentation packages. Labarta is Director of the Computer Science Department at the Barcelona Supercomputing Center and a Professor of Computer Architecture at the Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya. From 1996 to 2004 he served as the Director of the European Center of Parallelism of Barcelona (CEPBA). He has published more than 250 articles in conferences and journals in areas including high performance architectures and systems software. He has been involved in research and cooperation with many leading companies on HPC- related topics. Currently Labarta is the leader of the Performance Optimization and Productivity EU Center of Excellence where more than 100 users (both academic and SMEs) from a very wide range of application sectors receive performance assessments and suggestions for code refactoring efforts. ACM and IEEE-CS co-sponsor the Kennedy Award, which was established in 2009, to recognize substantial contributions to programmability and productivity in computing and significant community service or mentoring contributions. It was named for the late Ken Kennedy, founder of Rice University's computer science program and a world expert on high performance computing. The Kennedy Award carries a US $5,000 honorarium endowed by the SC Conference Steering Committee. About ACM ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery www.acm.org, is the world's largest educational and scientific computing society, uniting computing educators, researchers and professionals to inspire dialogue, share resources and address the field's challenges. ACM strengthens the computing profession's collective voice through strong leadership, promotion of the highest standards, and recognition of technical excellence. ACM supports the professional growth of its members by providing opportunities for life-long learning, career development, and professional networking. About IEEE Computer Society IEEE Computer Society, www.computer.org, is one of the world's leading computing membership organizations and a trusted information and career-development source for a global workforce of technology leaders including: professors, researchers, software engineers, IT professionals, employers, and students. IEEE Computer Society provides high-quality, state-of-the-art information on an on-demand basis. The Computer Society provides a wide range of forums for top minds to come together, including technical conferences, publications, a comprehensive digital library, unique training webinars, and professional training. IEEE is the world's largest professional association for advancement of technology and the Computer Society is the largest society within IEEE. About SC17 SC17, the International Conference for High Performance Computing, sc17.supercomputing.org, sponsored by ACM and IEEE-CS offers a complete technical education program and exhibition to showcase the many ways high performance computing, networking, storage and analysis lead to advances in scientific discovery, research, education and commerce. This premier international conference includes a globally attended technical program, workshops, tutorials, a world class exhibit area, demonstrations and opportunities for hands-on learning. SOURCE IEEE Computer Society Related Links http://www.computer.org FREMONT, Calif., Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Many believe Tesla, Inc. stands out as an innovative and groundbreaking company that is at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution. As a result, Owen Diaz, his son Demetric Di-az, and Lamar Patterson were thrilled when they landed work at Tesla's Fremont Factory through contract staffing agencies. These dreams turned into nightmares when each was subjected to racial epithets, racist graffiti, and a hostile work environment. Today they filed suit. This is the second suit brought by California Civil Rights Law Group in 2017 against Tesla for racial discrimination. Instead of a modern workplace at Tesla, Plaintiffs encountered a scene straight from the Jim Crow era. Plaintiffs endured a culture seeped in the N-word, racial abuse and racist Pickaninny images drawn on boxes with no repercussions. "What these three new cases bring to light is how Tesla's progressive image seems to be merely a facade papering over regressive, demeaning treatment of African-Americans both employees and contract employees. All three men were targets of on-going racially motivated abuse, including the frequent use of racial slurs and Jim Crow-era graffiti. The plaintiffs complained to their supervisors but Tesla, Inc. took no effective actions," said Attorney Larry Organ of the California Civil Rights Group. Per Wikipedia, "Pickaninny is a racial slur which refers to a depiction of dark-skinned children of African descent. It is a racist and derogatory caricature, whose meaning and usage grew to fruition in the antebellum American south, where race-based slavery was legal." The lawsuit was filed in Alameda County Superior Court. It alleges 16 civil rights and employment law violations as well as retaliatory and whistleblower violations. A copy of the filings, racist graffiti, and photographs of the plaintiffs can be accessed here. Attorney Larry Organ is available for comment. The plaintiffs have chosen to do no additional media interviews. About the Plaintiffs: Demetric Di-az In August 24, 2015, Di-az signed a contract to start working at Tesla as a production associate through the staffing agency West Valley Staffing Solutions. He took pride in his work and thought it was an honor to work for such a groundbreaking car company. But things began to change as he was finding it increasingly difficult to enjoy his job. He was called "n*****" by co-workers on a daily basis. He also observed his fellow African-Americans enduring the same treatment. Di-az found this demeaning and unbearably offensive. Though he made a complaint to West Valley Staffing Solutions, there was no response. He then complained to his superior at Tesla in December of 2015. His superiors' response was: "if you don't like it, your time here is going to end. You're just a temp anyway." Shortly thereafter, Di-az was let go. Owen Diaz Owen is the father of Demetric. He took great pride in working at Tesla's Fremont Factory with his son. He was contracted to Tesla through Citistaff. Hired in 2015, Owen was a successful employee whose work ethic was recognized almost immediately after he began working for the company. But he, too, suffered racial abuse. One day, while delivering lunch to his son, he had to endure watching racial epithets directed at his son - "All you f****** n****** I can't stand you M************." For him, this was one of the most painful and heart breaking experiences he's had. Owen and other African-American employees also found images of Pickaninny graffiti in the Factory. These crude drawings featured dark-skinned individuals with big lips and bones through their nose and the epithet "Boo" written underneath. Diaz eventually quit in 2016 because he could not take the harassment any longer. Lamar Patterson Patterson was excited to join Tesla as an elevator operator starting in January 2016. He was contracted to Tesla through Chartwell Staffing Solutions. It did not take him long to learn the company was a hotbed for racist behavior. Lamar experienced employees and supervisors using the N word, freely and frequently throughout the Tesla factory. They would use jokes, such as: "Go back to Africa, we don't want you here." Unable to take the abuse and the racially harassing treatment, Patterson quit in August of 2016. About California Civil Rights Law Group The California Civil Rights Law Group, led by prominent trial attorney Larry Organ, is dedicated to furthering the cause of employee civil rights throughout the state. The legal team has made it its priority to provide help to those who need it the most, and specializes in representing plaintiffs in matters involving race, sex and disability harassment, discrimination, retaliation and wrongful termination. http://www.civilrightsca.com/ SOURCE Larry Organ, California Civil Rights Law Group Related Links http://www.civilrightsca.com/ Redefining what it means to be a legend, John Hardy connects the individual to the myth, mastery, and achievement of artistry. Building on the dynamic, pioneering legacy of Cynthia Hardyadventurer, muse, and wife to founder John Hardywomen everywhere are invited to create their own legend through the art of wearing dramatic, powerful, and inspiring one-of-a-kind pieces handcrafted by Balinese artisans at the Ubud workshop using techniques passed down from generations of Master Artisans. Pushing beyond the traditional convention of women being gifted jewelry by men, friends, and family, John Hardy's Made For Legends platform calls on women to also acquire their own pieces as a means to strengthen spirit and bolster courage. Every piece celebrates achievement and demonstrates the power of personal expression. Perfect in its imperfection, John Hardy jewelry is as distinctive as the women who wear it. In the campaign, developed with New York agency MATTE Projects, Actress Julianne Moore and Model/Activist Adwoa Aboah explore what it means to be a legend, telling the story of the Classic Chain, Modern Chain, and Naga Collectionsmeaningful designs crafted from the raw power and strength of John Hardy's origin in Bali. Describing the process behind the campaign, MATTE Creative Director Jas Rewkiewicz says, "We were inspired by the spirit of John and Cynthia Hardy and the strength of the John Hardy woman. 'Made for Legends' is a call for women to live on their own terms and build their legend embodied by modern day icons, Julianne Moore and Adwoa Aboah. Masterfully lensed by Luigi and Iango, the campaign is made to cut through the noise: where jewelry advertising often plays it safe, we weren't afraid to be dramatic, inspiring and powerful." Moore and Aboah lead the campaign with their shared values of purposefulness, passion, and fearlessness. "These women are true legends. John Hardy is honored to collaborate with such daring role models," notes Robert Hanson, CEO of John Hardy. "They inspire women everywhere to create their own legend through the courage of their convictions, also reflected through their choices and personal expression wearing powerful, unique artisan hand-crafted jewelry." "Photographing these women was an awe-inspiring experience. Not only does this campaign celebrate their individuality, it also showcases the duality of feminine strength and vulnerability they possess. In the photos, as in life, they are armed by John Hardy to take on the world," said photographers Luigi Murenu and Iango Henzi, who brought John Hardy's legends to life in a series of arresting images. Images will appear online and in print publications this Fall 2017, coinciding with the release of the first collection from the brand's first-ever female Creative Director, Hollie Bonneville Barden. Technical Information: Brand: John Hardy Title: Made for Legends Talent: Julianne Moore and Adwoa Aboah and Shoot Dates: July 10-11, 2017 Location: Pier 59 Studios Agency: MATTE Projects Photography: Luigi Murenu and Iango Henzi Film Director: Brett Kincaid , MATTE Projects , MATTE Projects Director of Photography: Ryan Helfant Creative Director: Jas Rewkiewicz , MATTE Projects , MATTE Projects Art Director: Julien Lazaro , MATTE Projects , MATTE Projects Stylist: Julia Von Boehm Make-up Artist: Gucci Westman Hair Artist: Luigi Murenu Still Life Photography: Stephen Lewis Casting Director: Piergiorgio Del Moro About John Hardy Established in Bali in 1975, John Hardy is dedicated to the creation of ultimate beauty through artisan handcrafted jewelry. Our master artisans honor original craft through the perfection of modern design, creating timeless one-of-a-kind pieces that are brilliantly alive. Each of John Hardy's distinctive collections conveys evocative symbolism and honors the transmission of creative energy from the artist to the wearer. Since inception, the company has been deeply rooted in the essential values of community, artisanship and sustainability. For more information, please visit www.johnhardy.com. SOURCE John Hardy Related Links http://www.johnhardy.com BEDFORD, N.H., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Kentico Software, a fast-growing CMS software company with offices in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America, is holding one-day information-sharing events for solution partners, industry analysts, and the press in the USA next week. Specifically, the tour comes to Boston on Tuesday, October 24th and to Chicago on Thursday, October 26th. It's all part of the company's global roadshow tour which began in the Asia Pacific regionvisits the United States this monthand culminates on the European continent in November. Kentico 11 The goal of these one-day roadshow events is to provide a comprehensive product and strategy update. In both cities, the emphasis is on unveiling Kentico 11, the company's popular and widely used Enterprise Marketing Solution, based on the Microsoft.NET platform. The product, to be officially released in December, includes a new drag-and-drop visual email builder plus extensive improvements to bring it in line with the European Union's new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which takes effect in mid-2018, and whose impact will be felt by marketers around the globe. Integration with uCommerce Another major advancement coming with Kentico 11 is the integration with the highly regarded uCommerce product. Kentico 11 and uCommerce, when used together, represent a world class solution for CMS and e-commercecapable of supporting the digital marketing plans of the world's largest corporations. Kentico Cloud Kentico's Boston and Chicago events will also feature significant discussion around Kentico Cloud, the company's headless CMS solution, which separates content creation from content presentation, and is ideally suited for omni channel marketing. Kentico Partner TrustedChoice recently used Kentico Cloud to build a cutting-edge, highly responsive website for the insurance industry and will be detailing the underlying technologies that made the cloud approach a success. Still Time for Editors and Analyst to Attend Executives from Kentico and uCommerce will be on hand in both cities, and available for interviews and discussions. If you're a working member of the press or an industry analyst covering the CMS or eCommerce space and would like to attend, please contact Jim Panagas, Director of PR & Analyst Relations. About Kentico Kentico's products include Kentico EMS, the all-in-one CMS, E-commerce, and Online Marketing platform, and Kentico Cloud, the comprehensive cloud-first headless CMS and digital experience platform. Kentico EMS allows you to manage contacts and campaigns, track customer journeys, provide global e-commerce functionality, and measure and analyze the results to create and manage customer experiences easily in a dynamic business environment. Kentico Cloud is the cloud-first headless CMS and digital experience platform. Users can manage structured content for multi-channel delivery, use the API-first CMS to display that content on any website or device, and track visitor interactions to personalize the digital experience. All product and company names herein are trademarks of their respective owners. www.kentico.com Media Contact: Jim Panagas Director, PR & Analyst Relations Kentico Software Phone: 1-781-462-8461 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Kentico Related Links http://www.kentico.com IA8508, an open DSP platform, has four heterogeneous cores and 5.7MB of shared memory for a variety of new use cases. MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Knowles Corporation (NYSE: KN), market leader and global supplier of advanced micro-acoustic, audio processing and precision device solutions, announces a new audio processor platform. The IA8508 advanced audio processor is optimized for performance and power in both near and far-field voice applications making it the perfect solution for mobile phones, ear-worn products, and IoT devices such as digital assistants, smart speakers and TVs. The IA8508 platform addresses the performance limitations of today's most popular voice-enabled devices by improving recognition especially in far-field and high noise environments, enabling context awareness, and increasing local processing capability. Customers are now able to move audio processing to the edge of the network embedding intelligence into the device where it is closer to the user and the environment. The IA8508 consists of high performance, power efficient heterogeneous audio cores that are optimized for the most challenging voice interaction use-cases. Furthermore, the IA8508 is designed for Machine Learning (ML) through Deep Neural Network (DNN) hardware acceleration, optimized architecture and proprietary instruction set. As a result, the new Knowles' audio processor can perform specific machine learning tasks 10 times more efficiently than the competition. In addition, the IA8508 leverages light weight floating point operations, enabling ease of programmability, high dynamic range and low power comparable to fixed point operations. "The market opportunity for voice-powered devices is massive. From mobile phones to ear-worn devices, and smart speakers to TVs and appliances, voice-powered interactions have emerged as a critical and necessary feature," said Mike Polacek, President of Intelligent Audio at Knowles. "People are looking to engage with technology through natural, spoken commands, across mobile, ear-worn and IoT products, and are racing to develop and deploy the technology to enable it. With core capabilities in acoustics, digital signal processing and algorithms, Knowles' intelligent audio expertise is unparalleled and places the company in a perfect position to solve the issues hampering voice technology." Knowles' unique combination of four heterogeneous processors sets the IA8508 apart in 4 major ways: First, performance: to solve issues related to noise and distance, device makers need the ability to combine a multi-microphone array with large memory, powerful computing, and sophisticated algorithm features including acoustic echo cancellation (AEC), dynamic beam forming, steering, sound classification, and noise suppression. The IA8508 supports an array of up to eight microphones and is equipped with four heterogeneous cores capable of simultaneously running high performance algorithms leveraging the 5.7MB of memory. The Delta-Max core (DMAX) with specialized instruction set serves as the high-performance core. Second, latency: many audio applications require low-latency real-time processing, such as active noise cancellation and asynchronous sample rate conversion for mixing of various different audio signal sources. The IA8508 has an optimized single sample processor (SSP) core, guaranteeing low latency. Third, power consumption: voice user-interfaces require always-listening devices. The IA8508 features a low power core to listen to a variety of key phrases concurrently. In addition, complex audio processing and ML run more efficiently due to the optimized instruction set. The Hemi-Delta core (HMD) is tailored to guarantee low power dynamic processing; in addition, proprietary memory architecture and dynamic voltage scaling guarantee low stand-by power consumption. And fourth, integration: while the above DSP cores are optimized for performance, latency, and power efficiency, the IA8508 also includes an industry standard ARM Cortex M4 core for general purpose controller capability, allowing for immediate porting of existing legacy solutions. Also announced today is the Knowles open DSP partner program, which brings together leading contributors to the intelligent voice ecosystem for improving audio performance in a variety of use-cases. Earlier this year, Knowles announced the world's first smart mic with an embedded open DSP, the IA-610. Since then, the company has continued to add world-class partners to leverage its open DSP platforms. The company plans to continue expanding this program, collaborating with algorithm and cloud partners to develop and run code on its processors for solving complex audio problems. "Knowles continues to innovate, most recently through its open DSP platform architecture providing both power efficiency and versatility," said Todd Mozer, CEO of Sensory. "The Knowles open DSP platform environment enables quick and smooth integration of 3rd-party IP and this is evidenced by the recent successful enablement of Sensory's TrulyHandsfree technology." The combined strength of the IA8508 and the open DSP partner program demonstrates Knowles' leadership across the full spectrum of the voice interaction experience, from smart mics to audio processors. Coupled with its ecosystem of algorithm and cloud partners, Knowles is poised to enable mobile, earn-worn and IoT customers to capitalize on growing consumer demand for voice applications. "Knowles' market leadership in microphones combined with our technology advancement in digital signal processing and algorithms uniquely positions us to understand and solve complex audio problems," said Jeffrey Niew, President and CEO of Knowles. "With our growing line-up of open audio DSPs, Knowles is enabling our customers and partners to push the boundaries of audio processing and create powerful new user experiences." For more information on IA8508, visit www.knowles.com/IA8508 About Knowles Knowles Corporation (NYSE: KN) is a market leader and global supplier of advanced micro-acoustic, audio processing, and precision device solutions, serving the mobile consumer electronics, communications, medical, military, aerospace, and industrial markets. Knowles uses its leading position in MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) microphones and strong capabilities in audio processing technologies to optimize audio systems and improve the user experience in smartphones, tablets, and wearables. Knowles is also the leader in acoustics components used in hearing aids and has a strong position in high-end oscillators (timing devices) and capacitors. Knowles' focus on the customer, combined with unique technology, proprietary manufacturing techniques, rigorous testing and global scale, enables it to deliver innovative solutions that optimize the user experience. Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, Knowles is a global organization with employees in 12 countries. knowles.com. SOURCE Knowles Corporation Related Links http://www.knowles.com SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Kogentix, the leader in practical artificial intelligence (AI) fueled by big data, announced the production release of version 1.3 of the Kogentix Automated Machine Learning Platform (AMP). Kogentix also announced that AMP v1.3 has achieved Cloudera Certification. AMP v1.3 includes several enhancements that fit the product's mission to enable not just better machine learning, but better business results. These include expansion of the packaged algorithms to include time series, tracking of feature relevance in models over time, and the introduction of a rules engine to trigger actions based on predictive insights. In a growing landscape of products designed to accelerate AI, AMP stands out as the most complete solution for the development of machine learning based business applications. PT Bank Danamon is one of Indonesia's largest financial institutions, and one of the most innovative customers using Kogentix AMP. Bank Danamon has built a next generation AI based "Customer Insights" platform based on Cloudera Enterprise and Kogentix AMP to build a better integrated, psychographic and true behavioral view of customers across the full spectrum of interactions between the customer and the bank. Danamon's leadership in the use of technology for customer insights made them a finalist for the Cloudera Data Impact Awards announced recently at the Strata Data event in New York. "Bank Danamon continues its efforts to strengthen customer service quality by adapting to the latest trends and technologies. With Kogentix AMP, Bank Danamon will be able to deliver enhanced, personalized customer experience at the pace the market requires, consistent with our heritage of innovation," said Billie Setiawan, Decision Management Head at Bank Danamon. "Cloudera Enterprise, whether delivered on premises or in the cloud, has emerged as the preeminent platform for customers looking to create business value out of their data with machine learning," said Mike Olson, founder, chairman of the board and chief strategy officer at Cloudera. "Kogentix AMP makes it possible for customers to innovate, automate, and operate enterprise machine learning applications on Cloudera Enterprise. We were impressed with AMP version 1.3 as it sailed through certification, and we're proud that Cloudera is the only platform on which Kogentix has elected to certify to date." "To address the real-world challenges customers face deploying AI solutions, there is no substitute for hands on experience working on a broad range of machine learning use cases," said Boyd Davis, chief executive officer of Kogentix. "Kogentix has that experience, and the AMP v1.3 enhancements were driven out of the requirements we've observed. For customers looking to create business impact while controlling their own data and insights, we're confident AMP is an ideal solution." Kogentix AMP version 1.3 is available now. Customers interested in seeing a demonstration, or discussing a proof of concept or pilot deployment should contact the company. Additional details may be found at www.kogentix.com. About Kogentix: Kogentix, headquartered near Chicago with offices in Singapore, Indonesia, India, and locations across the United States, is a leading AI software and services firm offering practical artificial intelligence solutions fueled by big data. Leveraging the Kogentix Automated Machine Learning Platform (AMP) and an expert services team, Kogentix delivers rapid business results while at the same time helping customers build a lasting capability to innovate and differentiate. Contact: Betsy Little [email protected] (224) 558-6993 SOURCE Kogentix Related Links http://www.kogentix.com NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- LendKey, the leading lending-as-a-service solution for banks and credit unions, today announced the appointment of Samir Suri as Senior Vice President of Product. A consumer financial services industry veteran of over 15 years, Suri is charged with guiding the vision of LendKey's turnkey platform and enhancing the user experience for LendKey's lending partners and borrowers alike. Financial institutions are increasingly aware of the need to service their clients where they want to be served: digital and mobile. Most of these institutions lack the resources needed to develop these platforms and solutions in-house. LendKey enables these lenders to seamlessly integrate digital lending into their suite of client services. "Samir has a proven track record of elevating client and consumer experience. We're excited to extend his vision and expertise to our customers," said Vince Passione, LendKey CEO and founder. "Through digital transformation partnerships, such as through LendKey, banks and credit unions are well-positioned to be successful against emerging non-traditional lenders. Samir's addition to the team reaffirms our commitment to providing the most innovative digital lending solution in the market." Prior to joining LendKey, Suri served as Senior Director at Oportun Inc., a venture-backed social enterprise that works to provide access to affordable credit for individuals who are underserved or unbanked. During his five-year tenure at Oportun, the company's loan portfolio grew from $85 million to nearly $1 billion. "In today's digital-first economy, more consumers are expecting their financial institutions to be technologically savvy, secure and forward-thinking," said Suri. "I'm looking forward to building upon LendKey's unique lending-as-a-service model to better empower community lenders, banks and credit unions to service customers." Suri holds a Bachelor's degree (magna cum laude) in Economics with a Math emphasis from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and an MBA (honors) from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. About LendKey LendKey pioneered the lending-as-a-service model by creating white-labeled lending solutions that transform financial institutions into profitable digital lending businesses. LendKey's customized solutions help financial institutions attract new business, grow relationships, manage liquidity, and mitigate risk. The company manages the entire lending process, which includes demand generation, online decisioning, loan origination, customer service and balance sheet management. Founded in 2009 and based in New York and Cincinnati, LendKey works with hundreds of credit unions and banks and has deployed more than $1.7 billion in capital to date. For more information, please visit business.lendkey.com. Contact: Kelly Anderson SHIFT Communications [email protected] SOURCE LendKey Related Links https://www.lendkey.com LONG VALLEY, N.J., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Bringing together their love of all things Disney and passion for helping others to have a magical experience, MickeyTravels and The Main Street Press are sharing their knowledge and insight of the parks to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for consumers. MickeyTravels, www.mickeytravels.com, one of a select few travel agencies to be recognized with Platinum Earmark status by Disney Destinations and Main Street Press Inc., www.themainstreetpress.com, one of the hottest online retail shops and Instagram star @mainstreetpress, have teamed up to help travelers and maximize the vacation experience with insider tips, incentives, and discounts and more. From the first steps of planning to walking into the park decked out in the perfect attire and pin, these two industry leaders catering to Disney fans nationwide have entered into a new marketing partnership. Reaching millions of fans daily, the benefits of the partnership of the two powerhouses will be seen across multiple platforms including social media, online web and traditional mail. The first installment will include: Insider tips and upcoming events featured in e-newsletters Customer incentives and discounts Guest spotlight on Instagram when using hashtags A perfect pair for any Disney enthusiasts, these companies truly look forward to helping visitors to the park create memories to last a lifetime. No matter if it's a first trip or the 100th visit, there is always something new to see and learn in this magic kingdom. About MickeyTravels: MickeyTravels is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and one of a select few travel agencies in the world to be designated by Disney Destinations with Platinum Earmarked status. They are nationally recognized as a leader in planning magical Disney vacations and have been voted BEST TRAVEL AGENCY by multiple newspapers and magazines throughout the country. About Main Street Press, Inc. At Main Street Press Inc., we are all about bringing inspired pieces of our favorite parks into every day style. We know just how important having a special tee for your vacation is. Take it from us, we spent hours looking for unique apparel before each of our trips! So we decided to make clever park-inspired fashion for Disney enthusiasts worldwide. We hope our apparel and accessories bring a little extra magic to your memories! Contact: Michelle Goldstein, BrandKitchen [email protected] SOURCE MickeyTravels Related Links http://www.mickeytravels.com NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- LexisNexis has chosen Critical Mention, a full-service media monitoring company, to bolster the real-time television and radio broadcast coverage in its media intelligence solution. Critical Mention now delivers its broadcast feed more than 40 broadcast hours indexed every minute to LexisNexis Newsdesk, a media intelligence solution recently named the Best News Media Monitoring Solution by SIIA. Alex Schwendtner, General Manager of Media Intelligence at LexisNexis said: "As a leading provider of global media content, we pride ourselves on offering the broadest array of content options possible. The addition of Critical Mention's broadcast content into LexisNexis Newsdesk as an option for our customers is a valuable accompaniment to the strong set of global broadcast content available in the tool." The Critical Mention broadcast package includes coverage across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. from more than 2,200 sources. The addition of Critical Mention's coverage helps strengthen the existing global broadcast content available within LexisNexis Newsdesk. Don Yount, CEO of Critical Mention, said: "It's a pleasure working with LexisNexis. We appreciate their endorsement of the speed, reliability and depth of our coverage. We work hard to maintain our position as the leading real-time aggregator of live television and radio content. Aligning with a knowledgeable, respected and forward-thinking information firm like LexisNexis is rewarding validation of the investment we've made in building a technologically superior broadcast capture network." About LexisNexis Legal & Professional LexisNexis Legal & Professional is a leading global provider of legal, regulatory and business information and analytics that help professional customers make more informed decisions, increase productivity and serve their clients better. As a digital pioneer, the company was the first to bring legal and business information online with its Lexis and Nexis services. Today, LexisNexis Legal & Professional harnesses leading-edge technology and world-class content to help professionals work in faster, easier and more effective ways. Through close collaboration with its customers, the company ensures organizations can leverage its solutions to reduce risk, improve productivity, increase profitability and grow their business. LexisNexis Legal & Professional, which serves customers in more than 175 countries with 10,000 employees worldwide, is part of RELX Group, a global provider of information and analytics for professional and business customers across industries. The Business Insight Solutions business unit of LexisNexis Legal & Professional serves companies and organizations across the globe, offering premier news, corporate information and public records through a portfolio of solutions, including the award-winning media monitoring solution, LexisNexis Newsdesk. This unique combination of market-leading content and innovative technology helps business professionals make more insightful decisions by offering them quick and easy access to the latest news, facts and insights regarding their brand, clients, prospects, competitors, suppliers and industry trends. About Critical Mention Critical Mention is the world's leading aggregator of real-time television and radio content. Every day, Critical Mention collects and indexes online news articles, social media posts, and broadcast programming so that communications and public relations professionals at corporations, non-profits, and marketing agencies can stay on top of their media coverage. Founded in 2002, Critical Mention is headquartered in New York City. To learn more, visit www.criticalmention.com SOURCE LexisNexis LOS ANGELES, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- USA News Group - Multiple announcements from major automakers and countries planning to increase their Electric Vehicle (EV) mandates have suddenly put the lithium market in high gear. Companies in the lithium mining and production space feeling the impact of the massive demand include Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE: SQM), FMC Corporation (NYSE: FMC), Orocobre Ltd. (OTC: OROCF), and QMC Quantum Minerals Corp. (TSX-V: QMC) (OTC: QMCQF). Following China's announcement that it plans to ban traditional fuel cars, and mass investments announced by Ford, Volkswagen, Mercedes, BMW, and of course Tesla, the shift to electric vehicles is spurring a surge in demand for lithium batteries and the companies that supply the raw materials. The increase is creating a projected shortfall that will begin as early as 2018 by some estimates. Major producers who have been predicting the shift and increasing their stakes are rallying, alongside some smaller companies who have been working to bring on new lithium sources. A promising entrant is QMC Quantum Minerals Corp. (TSX-V: QMC.V) (OTC: QMCQF), a smaller company positioning itself in Canada's hard-rock lithium sector. The company is tapping a known region with very favorable mining logistics in Manitoba. Others who are leading the charge to deliver more lithium faster include Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE: SQM), the largest producer of lithium, FMC (NYSE: FMC), the diversified chemical company that rallied 87% in 2017 mostly over lithium growth, and Australia's Orocobre Ltd. (OTC: OROCF), which rallied 14% after announcing maiden year profits. SERIOUS NEED INDEED There seems little question that there is going to be a massive demand placed on the world's lightest metal. Automakers are unilaterally increasing their forecasts, with most looking to increase their EV fleets to about 20% by 2015. That's aside from China's mandate, which will effectively end petroleum and diesel fueled cars in the world's fastest growing automotive market. Macquarie Bank calls lithium "the new wonder resource in the mining sector," and says that demand is expected to systemically outstrip supply in a few years, driven by an estimated 31% CAGR of EVs to 2021. Alongside the EV demand, 12 lithium ion battery "mega factories" are set to come on line (or expand) by 2020 including Panasonic, Tesla, LG Chem, Samsung SDI, BYD, and Foxconn, according to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. The reality is that the core group of producers of lithium who are increasing their production and refining capabilities will not be able to fulfill the new demands for lithium needed to power these markets. The market is looking elsewhere. GO WHERE THE LITHIUM IS In this new paradigm, it makes sense for lithium mining companies to head where the lithium is located and pour on the gas. This presents some serious challenges though since about two-thirds of proven reserves of lithium are concentrated in a small area of South America located at the intersection of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile known as the "Lithium Triangle." These are politically and financially complex mining jurisdictions to operate under, and since they are very well established, the three major producers control most of the area plays. The other major lithium supplies are found mostly in Australia. Operating in that historically strong mining country has its advantages and its producers are seeing a major upswing in their value based on lithium demand. Even better for up and coming companies looking to maximize their opportunity is the number two mining district in the world according to 104 top mining companies: Manitoba, Canada. QMC'S SMART PLAY QMC Quantum Minerals is a Canadian mining company that has jumped on the opportunity to operate the Manitoba mineral region now ranked 2nd in the world according to the Fraser Institute. Manitoba just jumped to this spot, displacing Australia and others. The reason is Manitoba has competitive tax regimes, efficient permitting procedures and surrounding environmental regulations / land-claims. Top mining firms like to invest there. QMC Quantum Minerals has been gathering mineral interests since 2010, but they've really made a brilliant move into lithium with the acquisition of the Cat Lake Lithium Property (formerly the Irgon Mine) in 2016. Lithium Corporation of Canada Limited previously drilled 25 holes into the property's Irgon Dike between 1953-1954. They reported a historical resource estimate of 1.2 million tonnes (metric) grading 1.51% Li20 over a strike length of 365 meters and to a depth of 213 meters. That is a significant lithium discovery by today's standards, with an excellent grade for production. QMC Quantum's geological team says there's no reason to disagree with the accuracy of those historical drill results. The next step is to prove up the lithium through their drill program, which is underway. The Cat Lake Property lithium prospect was good enough for the historic developers of the project to put in a 500 ton per day mining mill and sink a three compartment shaft into the site. It's important to note that QMC's Cat Lake property is just 20km from the world class Tanco Mine Property. Tanco was previously North America's largest and sole producer of spodumene (Li). If markets intend to keep pace with the huge demands being placed on lithium, new sources like QMC Quantum Mineral's Cat Lake, could be crucial. The markets are recognizing that too, and these small companies are also rising on the lithium tide. POTENTIAL COMPARABLES Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE: SQM) Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A., is a producer of potassium nitrate and iodine. The Company produces specialty plant nutrients, iodine derivatives, lithium and its derivatives, potassium chloride, potassium sulfate and certain industrial chemicals. Its segments include specialty plant nutrients, industrial chemicals, iodine and derivatives, lithium and derivatives, potassium, and other products and services Lithium and its derivatives are used in batteries, greases and frits for production of ceramics. Potassium chloride is a commodity fertilizer that is produced and sold by the Company across the world. FMC (NYSE: FMC) FMC Corp. is a Philadelphia-based chemical company which is swiftly ramping up its lithium production. Last year, FMC said it was planning to triple lithium hydroxide production capacity by 2019. The first phase of the plan has already started. FMC management also said that it was not ruling out the possibility to spin-off FMC's lithium segment as a separate publicly owned company. BofAMerrill Lynch recently upgraded FMC stock to "Buy" from "Underperform," increasing the price target to $103.00 from $66. Orocobre Ltd. (OTC: OROCF) Orocobre Limited operates primarily in Argentina in the mining industry. The Company engages in the production ramp up of its Olaroz Lithium Facility and the operation of Borax Argentina S.A. (Borax Argentina). Its segments include Corporate, the Olaroz project, South American Salars and Borax Argentina. Its primary focus is on exploration for and development of lithium, potash and salar mineral deposits. The Company's assets also include boron mines and processing facilities of Borax Argentina and a portfolio of brine exploration projects. Its Olaroz Lithium Facility is located in the Puna region of Jujuy Province in northern Argentina, over 230 kilometers northwest of the capital city of Jujuy. For a more in-depth look into QMC you can view the in-depth report at American News Group: http://usanewsgroup.com/2017/10/16/lithium_is_positioned_perfectly/ Article Source: USA News Group http://usanewsgroup.com [email protected] Legal Disclaimer/Disclosure: This piece is an advertorial and has been paid for. 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Media Contact Information: FN Media Group, LLC [email protected] +1(954)345-0611 SOURCE USA News Group Under the service's Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD), the company is developing sensor fusion and integration technologies that enhance rotary-wing aircraft survivability and enable pilots to navigate safely in all environments, even when GPS is unavailable. The MMSF algorithms blend data from multiple sensor types to restore a pilot's situational awareness in degraded visual environments (DVEs). "Current Lockheed Martin fire control systems enable pilots to own the night," said Paul Lemmo, vice president of Fire Control/SOF CLSS at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "Our next-generation MMSF technology will help them own the environment as well. Our work with NVESD and other DVE stakeholders will enable helicopter aircrews to operate more safely and effectively in even the most challenging visual environments." During the 40-month effort, Lockheed Martin engineers will integrate government-furnished sensors in a reconfigurable, open-architecture testbed that supports the development of DVE systems for rotary-wing aircraft. Other activities include refining multi-modal fusion techniques and real-time 3-D mapping, and implementing symbols and cues for pilot sensor displays. MMSF blends sensor data to generate real-time 3-D terrain maps of the area around the aircraftmaps that can identify and highlight obstacles to improve situational awareness for pilots, mission commanders and other platforms. Potential recipients of such capabilities include existing Army helicopters and Future Vertical Lift solutions. 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. SOURCE Lockheed Martin MIAMI, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Longeveron LLC, a leading life sciences company developing innovative therapies for age-related diseases, announced that the company is progressing with the development of its stem cell treatment to ameliorate aging frailty. The company is building on Phase 1 safety and Phase 2 safety, tolerability and efficacy studies conducted by the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine of Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) in patients with aging frailty. The results of both studies were published in the October 12 issue of the Journals of Gerontology. Based on its review of these papers, the Oxford University Press Journals of Gerontology published an editorial in the same issue confirming that "MSC transplantation is a promising and innovative approach for the treatment of frailty in older humans" and "stem cells might be the vehicles for youthful regeneration of aged tissues." "With the aging of the population, stem cells hold great promise to treat aging-related disability and frailty, improving physical capacity and quality of life. There is no FDA approved treatment for aging frailty and an enormous unmet need that will only increase with the changing demographics. We are following a very careful, very rigorous testing process for FDA approval to provide safe and effective stem cell therapies," said Joshua M. Hare, M.D., Longeveron Chief Science Officer and Co-Founder and Director of the Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. "This pioneering Phase 2 study has shown that MSC treatment is safe in this patient population and produces remarkable improvement in function and immunologic levels, confirming the outcomes shown in the company's Phase 1 clinical trial. The positive results demonstrated by the research are also extremely significant in that they clearly point to the need for continued clinical development of cell-based therapy for aging frailty," said Samuel Golpanian, M.D., of the Department of Surgery, University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital, lead author of the Phase 1 trial. Bryon Thompkins, M.D., of the Department of Surgery, UM's Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital, was lead author of the Phase 2 study. Allogeneic human mesenchymal stem cells are derived from human adult donor bone marrow. Longeveron's randomized, double-blinded Phase 2 trial of MSCs involved 30 frail patients with an average age of 76. The patients were administered two doses of 100 million or 200 million cells versus placebo. Participants showed marked improvement in physical performance, lung function and inflammation biomarkers, all major aspects of frailty, with no serious adverse events attributable to the product. Building on the positive data of the UM trials, Longeveron announced last month that it has initiated an expanded Phase 2b clinical trial of its proprietary Longeveron Mesenchymal Stem Cells (LMSCs) in accordance with an FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) application. The trial is designed to enroll 120 participants from 10 medical centers across the U.S., including the University of Florida and Stanford University. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans 65 and older is projected to more than double to over 96 million by 2060, increasing to nearly 24% from 15% of the total U.S. population. Longeveron's Phase 1 study can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glx056 and the Phase 2 study at https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glx137 About LMSCs LMSCs are an allogeneic product, which means they are produced from stem cells derived from healthy adult donor bone marrow, and not from the patient's own stem cells (referred to as autologous). LMSCs are manufactured at Longeveron's cGMP Cell Processing Facility in Miami, Florida, using its proprietary processes. About Longeveron Longeveron is a regenerative medicine therapy company founded in 2014. Longeveron's goal is to provide the first of its kind biological solution for aging-related diseases, and is dedicated to developing safe cell-based therapeutics to revolutionize the aging process and improve quality of life. The company's research focus areas include Alzheimer's disease, Aging Frailty, and the Metabolic Syndrome, and gratefully acknowledges the generous support of the National Institutes of Health and the Alzheimer's Association. Longeveron is also conducting a Phase 1 trial with the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University to study Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a rare indication that affects infants, and gratefully acknowledges the support and collaboration from the Maryland Stem Cell Foundation. www.longeveron.com SOURCE Longeveron LLC Related Links http://www.longeveron.com YOKNEAM, Israel, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumenis Ltd., the world's largest energy-based medical device company for surgical, aesthetic and ophthalmic applications, announced today that it will share new clinical data on its CO 2 laser-based FiberLase for minimally-invasive treatment of endometriosis at the European Society for Gynecological Endoscopy (ESGE) 26th Annual Congress, October 18- 21 at the Sueno Hotel Belek & Convention Center in Antalya, Turkey. Endometriosis is a disease that affects roughly 10% of the world's female population. While the etiology of the disease is still unclear, treatment options exist and vary between symptomatic ease, hormonal supplements and hysterectomy when fertility is no longer of concern. Approximately 85% of endometriosis patients are diagnosed with ovarian endometriosis; these cases require delicate and precise treatment options to preserve fertility. Lumenis has collaborated with leading surgeons worldwide to develop an advanced surgical CO 2 FiberLase laser procedure, which has been demonstrated to remove endometriosis lesions very delicately and precisely without harming the ovarian reserve. Recent studies1-6 show the treatment results in fast recovery time, less inflammation and pain, low risk of infection and low rate of side effects such as surgery-related adhesions. Patients experience immediate improvement in their quality of life, higher rates of fertility preservation and lower disease recurrence rates compared to RF technology. At the ESGE Annual Congress, Lumenis will highlight its innovations in treating endometriosis, including the advanced surgical CO 2 lasers, UltraPulse DUO and AcuPulse DUO. These laser systems utilize both Free Beam laser delivery and the flexible FiberLase fiber, designed to operate precisely around delicate pelvic anatomy with minimal thermal damage while keeping healthy tissue intact, significantly improving symptoms and quality of life while helping to preserve and protect fertility. Lumenis will host an industry symposium and share the results of the recent study on the efficacy of the AcuPulse DUO for removal of endometrial tissue around the ovaries while preserving ovarian antral follicle count and anti-Mullerian hormone, both necessary for fertility. Authors Prof. Massimo Candiani and Dr. Jessica Ottolina, and their colleagues will present results of the study titled, "Positive Effects on Ovarian Reserve When Using CO 2 Laser Vaporization Versus Cystectomy for the Treatment of Ovarian Endometrioma: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial." The study's author, Prof. Massimo Candiani, Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, said, "I consider the CO 2 laser a valuable tool in the treatment of pelvic and ovarian endometriosis, where I can easily use it for excision and vaporization. When using the CO 2 laser, I can achieve precision and safety and, most importantly, preservation of the ovarian functionality." "At Lumenis, we take great pride in our company's commitment and continuous innovation in women's health technology," said Lumenis CEO Tzipi Ozer-Armon. "We are very excited to share the clinical and technological advances with our partners and colleagues at the ESGE Annual Congress." During the ESGE Annual Congress, attendees can visit Lumenis at booth #20 to gain hands-on experience with the Lumenis CO 2 laser solutions and attend the company's range of engaging symposia and presentations: Scientific session: "Positive Effects on Ovarian Reserve When Using CO 2 Laser Vaporization Versus Cystectomy for the Treatment of Ovarian Endometrioma: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial," Prof. Massimo Candiani and Dr. Jessica Ottolina . Session type: "best selected abstracts 2" 19 October, 08:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. , 2 Hall Orkide 2 Laser Vaporization Versus Cystectomy for the Treatment of Ovarian Endometrioma: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial," Prof. and Dr. . Session type: "best selected abstracts 2" 19 October, , 2 Hall Orkide 2 Symposium: "Benefits of CO 2 Laser in the Treatment of Endometriosis," Panel members:Prof. Michelle Nisolle, Prof. Massimo Candiani , Dr. Yucel Karaman, Prof. Okolo, Dr. Mariona Rius , Dr. Jessica Ottolina and Dr. Lotfi , who will present two procedures using CO 2 FiberLase fiber. The colleagues will have a panel discussion on the benefits of the treatment protocol. 19 October, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. , 2 Hall Orkide 2 Laser in the Treatment of Endometriosis," Panel members:Prof. Michelle Nisolle, Prof. , Dr. Yucel Karaman, Prof. Okolo, Dr. , Dr. and Dr. Lotfi , who will present two procedures using CO FiberLase fiber. The colleagues will have a panel discussion on the benefits of the treatment protocol. 19 October, , 2 Hall Orkide 2 Scientific session: "Spontaneous Pregnancy Rates Following a Laparoscopic CO 2 Laser Surgery for Endometriosis," Dr. Yucel Karaman. Session type: "Free Communication l Laparoscopic Surgery", 20 October, 10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m. , 4 Hall Kardelen 2. Free Communication l Laparoscopic SurgeryLumenis Advisory Board Meeting: "Consensus on The Gold Standard of Treatment for Endometriosis" Lumenis will also introduce attendees to www.gynhealth.com, a website created by the company to educate endometriosis patients and their families on the disease and its surgical treatment options. About Lumenis Lumenis is the world's largest energy-based medical device company for surgical, aesthetic and ophthalmic applications in the area of minimally invasive clinical solutions. Regarded as a world-renowned expert in developing and commercializing innovative energy-based technologies, including Laser, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Radio-Frequency (RF). For nearly 50 years, Lumenis' ground-breaking products have redefined medical treatments and have set numerous technological and clinical gold-standards. Lumenis has successfully created solutions for previously untreatable conditions, as well as designed advanced technologies that have revolutionized existing treatment methods. www.lumenis.com References: Adelman MR, Tsai LJ , Tangchitnob EP, Kahn BS, 2013.J Obstet Gynaecol,33(3): 225-31 Wang Z, Chocat N, 2010. Curr Pharm Biotechno, 11(4):384-97. Bailey AP, Lancerotto L, Gridley C, Orgill DP, Nguyen H, Pescarini E, Lago G, Gargiulo AR, 2014. J Minim Invasive Gynecol, 21(6):1103-9 Schipper E, Nezhat C, 2012. Int J Womens Health ;4:383- 93 Tsolakidis D, Pados G, Vavilis D, Athanatos D, Tsalikis T, Giannakou A, Tarlatzis BC, 2010. Fertil Steril, 94(1):71-7 Meuleman C, D'Hoore A, Van Cleynenbreugel B, Beks N, D'Hooghe T, 2009. Reprod Biomed Online ;18(2):282-9 MEDIA CONTACT Kara Stephens, Pascale Communications [email protected] 407-765-1185 SOURCE Lumenis Ltd Related Links http://www.lumenis.com ST. LOUIS, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Watlow, an industry leader in the design and manufacture of complete thermal systems, has been working to bolster a shrinking manufacturing workforce in the U.S., and its efforts have been recognized. The Missouri Association of Manufacturers (MAM) has awarded Watlow a Made in Missouri Leadership Award because of the company's support of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education, training programs and economic development initiatives. Watlow is involved in MAM's SkillSource Initiative, as well as a partnership with Ranken Technical College, who also received the award. "It is important for manufacturers to address the shortage of employees in the U.S. who have a background in STEM," said Peter Desloge, CEO and president of Watlow. "The need for skilled workers is increasing, and Watlow, like other manufacturers, believes it is critical to invest in both STEM education and training programs to close the gap." MAM reports that "the manufacturing industry is in crisis" due to this workforce shortage. Through 2025, close to 3.5 million manufacturing jobs are likely to open, but two million will remain unfilled because there are not enough workers with the right skill sets, according to the 2015 Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte Skills Gap Study. Watlow has partnered with Ranken to recruit and train people on the technical skills needed in a modern manufacturing setting. The two organizations have participated in job fairs and co-op programs in the areas of maintenance, machinists and technicians. Watlow is considering shifting the manufacturing of one of its electric heater lines to Ranken in 2018. This would help Watlow further support its customers by identifying and training future technical team members from Ranken. Watlow participates in more than 50 STEM events annually at its locations across the U.S. In St. Louis, the company started a program with high school students at an all-girls' school, Cor Jesu Academy, in 2013 to encourage more girls to enter STEM fields of study. Watlow also offers STEM scholarships for team members' children to attend camps as well as for college. Watlow serves numerous industries, including semiconductor processing, environmental chambers, energy processes, diesel emissions, medical and foodservice equipment. Established in 1922, the company holds more than 450 patents and operates nine manufacturing facilities and three technology centers in the United States, Mexico, Europe and Asia. Contact: Terri Waters 314-200-2630 [email protected] SOURCE Watlow Related Links http://www.watlow.com DANVERS, Mass., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- With adult-use cannabis set for a July 2018 launch in Massachusetts, many in the area are getting ready to apply for cultivation centers and dispensaries, and thousands of new cannabis employees will be needed. While many think their home grow qualifies them to work in the cannabis industry, owners are finding those with professional training are the ones who interview better and truly understand the science behind cannabis. HempStaff, a medical marijuana recruiting and training agency, is hosting a Medical Marijuana Dispensary Agent Training Class in Danvers, Massachusetts this Oct. 21, 2017. Classes THIS Saturday in Danvers, MA covering all New England States The class will be held at the Doubletree Boston North Shore, located at 50 Ferncroft Road, Danvers, Massachusetts. There are two sessions to choose from: 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or 1:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. The cost is $249 with prior online registration or $300 (cash-only) at the door if seats are still available. This professional training course educates candidates on cannabis, cannabis products and the regulations in all New England states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. HempStaff's four-hour course is designed to prepare participants for work in a marijuana dispensary so that business owners are getting educated and well-prepared candidates when filling new, entry-level positions. In today's cannabis world even the recreational user is usually looking for some type of medical relief, even if it is just to relieve anxiety or sleep better at night; knowing how to read the cannabinoid and terpene profile and how these impact the body's endo-cannabinoid system are key to getting the right product into the patient or customer's hands. The course educates the participants on cannabis and cannabis products along with all the information to needed stay up-to-date with local recreational and medical marijuana laws. HempStaff offers its students a resume template and review to help best prepare them when seeking employment, in this course as well. The end of the course prepares students for the real world with a final exam, that the student must pass with a 75 percent or better to get their HempStaff Dispensary Agent Certificate. As HempStaff is also a recruiting agency, when employers seek to fill entry-level dispensary agents or cultivation site workers, students are contacted first. HempStaff has trained and certified more than 3,000 dispensary agents nationwide since 2014! In addition to the class held in the Boston area, classes are currently scheduled for Pennsylvania, Maryland, Florida, Ohio, Arkansas, Michigan, California and Illinois. Once a student passes their exam, they are welcome to return to future classes, in any state, free of charge for updates and networking. Those who have already taken the HempStaff course have provided exceptional feedback about the training. "The trainers were very energetic and passionate about educating attendees at this event! You could really tell that their heart is fully devoted to spreading resourceful knowledge to their students!" notes one recent participant. Another stated, "I was just so happy to finally learn something about the medical uses and confirm my limited knowledge. Thank you so much for the professionalism each presenter and other staff displayed. You are the ones who can help fan the flames of legitimacy in this field so thank you!" HempStaff's team of recruiters, specializing in the cannabis industry, are available to business owners to help with all their staffing needs from multi-year, experienced Master Growers, Extractors, Dispensary Managers but also assists companies hire their entire team, including the entry-level positions of site workers, trimmers and dispensary agents. To learn more about the HempStaff, the upcoming New England training or to purchase a seat, visit HempStaff.com. About HempStaff HempStaff is the industry leader in Marijuana Industry Recruiting and Dispensary Agent Training. For more information, visit HempStaff.com. Related Images image1.jpg Medical Marijuana Dispensary Training image2.jpg HempStaff Related Links HempStaff Training Dates HempStaff Related Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNAxyfMbJOM SOURCE HempStaff, LLC Related Links http://HempStaff.com LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Med-X, Inc. (Med-X) today announced that their Regulation A+ (Reg A+) equity crowdfunding campaign - one of the first of its kind for the medical cannabis industry - is now accepting investment funding beginning at the $420 level or 700 shares. In approximately an 8 week period Med-X was able to receive $3.6 million in reservations from over 1100 prospective investors for their Reg A+ campaign on StartEngine.com. "This offering presents a tremendous opportunity for American investors seeking to get in on the ground floor of the burgeoning cannabis industry -- without the normal accreditation requirements for start-up companies," said Matthew Mills, COO of Med-X. "Virtually any American who earns an annual income of $4,200 and is age 18 or older can participate. Keep in mind that you're not simply investing in the cannabis industry; you're investing in our green medicine mission. What's more, the successful launch of Med-X is 100% due to the opportunity brought to us by the JOBS Act of 2012. We are proof that if you are willing to sacrifice the time and effort to do it right, following all the rules of crowdfunding and raising capital is a worthwhile endeavor." In addition to the success of their equity crowdfunding campaign, Med-X's flagship product, Nature-Cide All Purpose Insecticide, has continued to gain a following. This has prompted Med-X to prepare for the release of their second natural product in Q3 and Q4 of 2016, a patent-pending proprietary natural soil blend that encompasses natural insecticidal properties. "Comprised of 100% various natural proven pest-preventing plant matter and superior cultivation ingredients, this soil gives cultivators one natural proven brand for all their growing medium and pest prevention needs for cannabis cultivation," states Mills. By using the insecticidal soil along with Nature-Cide products, Med-X has been cultivating and protecting cannabis plants throughout multiple cultivation cycles in the Med-X Lab. By providing these all-natural solutions, Med-X is on track to become the industry leader in integrated pest-management solutions for cannabis cultivation, thus creating a new standard for organic medicine. An In-depth Look at the Cannabis Industry; How Anyone Can Invest The $5.4 billion legal cannabis industry is poised to reach $6.7 billion by 2016 and $21 billion by 2020, according to industry analyst ArcView Market Research. To learn more about the future of this rapidly growing industry -- including important innovations in cultivation, research and development -- and Med-X's current investment opportunity, visit https://www.startengine.com/startup/med-x. ABOUT MED-X, INC. Med-X, Inc. is a Nevada corporation formed in February 2014 to support the fast-paced emerging cannabis industry through such activities as compound identification and extraction of the identified cannabidiol (CBD) compounds for the present medical industry demand. The company's digital magazine, The Marijuana Times, publishes quality media content for the medical cannabis community to generate revenue from advertisers as well as sell industry related merchandise to consumers. The company is ready to bring various products to market in the cannabis, agricultural and ancillary services industries through manufacturing partnerships. For more information regarding Med-X, Inc., please visit www.medx-rx.com, email [email protected] or call 818-349-2870. DISCLAIMER AND FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS The securities offered hereby are highly speculative. Investing in shares of MED-X, INC. involves significant risks. This investment is suitable only for persons who can afford to lose their entire investment. Furthermore, investors must understand that an investment could be illiquid for an indefinite period of time. No public market currently exists for the securities and if a public market develops following this offering it may not continue. You should read the offering circular before making any investment. This release may contain forward-looking statements regarding projected business performance, operating results, financial condition and other aspects of the company, expressed by such language as "expected," "anticipated," "projected" and "forecasted." Please be advised that such statements are estimates only and there is no assurance that the results stated or implied by forward-looking statements will actually be realized by the company. Forward-looking statements may be based on management assumptions that prove to be wrong. The company and its business are subject to substantial risks and potential events beyond its control that would cause material differences between predicted results and actual results, including the company incurring operating losses and experiencing unexpected material adverse events. Media Contact: Grant Harvey [email protected] 805-698-5122 Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160209/331555 SOURCE Med-X, Inc. Related Links http://www.medx-rx.com LOS ANGELES, Dec. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Med-X, Inc. (Med-X) today launched an equity crowdfunding initiative as the next phase in the company's fundraising strategy. The company announced late last month that it had been qualified by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to sell shares to the general public through the Regulation A+ equity crowdfunding initiative, making Med-X the first company in the cannabis industry to be qualified by the SEC for a public offering under these rules. The company will be offering anyone interested in embracing the rapidly emerging cannabis industry, expected to yield billions annually, the chance to reserve shares early. Blazing the trail with research and development, agriculture, manufacturing and a media division, Med-X's mission is to expand the medical and recreational cannabis industry by educating the community and developing products that are safe, effective and affordable. The company's relationships in the medical and biochemistry fields give it the ability to position itself as a long-term player in the industry. "We are offering this chance to reserve shares through an equity crowdfunding campaign to give all Americans the chance to be a part of a positive phase in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry," said Dr. David Toomey, CEO of Med-X. "We see tremendous growth potential for the industry at large with both medical and recreational users, as well as a tremendous need for products that the public can trust not to be contaminated with pesticides, mold, or other problematic substances." In February 2015, Med-X opened its first patient cooperative to cultivate 100% natural and organically grown medical cannabis for its research and development program. Med-X's management team recognized a huge need to bring safe, medical-grade cannabis to the medical community that is free of pesticides, mold and other harmful substances. Medical cannabis dispensaries in California remain unregulated for the most part, despite cannabis' use as a holistic alternative to pharmaceutical drugs. As more states legalize medical and recreational cannabis, cultivation centers are likely to face mandated product testing for potency and contaminants and, as a result, many will subsequently be forced to close if they aren't complying. Med-X's Nature-Cide product was created to solve the pesticide problem with all natural green solutions and is one of the first to market. Nature-Cide All Purpose Insecticide has been tested safe for cannabis cultivation, is EPA Registered nationally with the states which require registration and has been approved by the Colorado Department of Agriculture for use in cannabis cultivation. Individuals interested in learning more about the opportunity to reserve shares in Med-X can visit StartEngine.com. Med-X will be one of the first ten companies utilizing StartEngine.com. SEC Disclaimer AN OFFERING STATEMENT REGARDING THIS OFFERING HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE SEC. THE SEC HAS QUALIFIED THAT OFFERING STATEMENT, WHICH ONLY MEANS THAT THE COMPANY MAY MAKE SALES OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED BY THE OFFERING STATEMENT. IT DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE SEC HAS APPROVED, PASSED UPON THE MERITS OR PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION IN THE OFFERING STATEMENT. YOU MAY OBTAIN A COPY OF THE OFFERING CIRCULAR THAT IS PART OF THAT OFFERING STATEMENT FROM: MED-X, INC. 8326 REMMET AVENUE CANOGA PARK, CA 91304 YOU SHOULD READ THE OFFERING CIRCULAR BEFORE MAKING ANY INVESTMENT. About Med-X, Inc. Med-X, Inc. is a Nevada corporation formed in February 2014 to cultivate and support the fast paced emerging cannabis industry through such activities as compound identification and extraction of the identified cannabidiol (CBD) compounds for the present medical industry demand. The company also plans to create and publish high quality cannabis industry media content through the company's online media platform, www.marijuanatimes.org to generate revenue from advertisers as well as sell industry related merchandise to patients and consumers. The company is also gearing up to supply products to the cannabis agricultural and provisioning industries through manufacturing partnerships. For more information regarding Med-X, please visit www.medx-rx.com, email [email protected] or call 818-349-2870. About StartEngine Crowdfunding, Inc. StartEngine is the premier equity crowdfunding platform, connecting entrepreneurs and aspiring investors with tomorrow's progressive companies. Based in Los Angeles, the company was created in 2013 by Howard Marks, co-founder of Activision, and Ron Miller. StartEngine aims to revolutionize the startup business model by helping individuals invest in private companies on a public platform for the first time in history, thereby helping entrepreneurs achieve their dreams. Learn more at http://www.startengine.com. Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements regarding projected business performance, operating results, financial condition and other aspects of the company, expressed by such language as "expected," "anticipated," "projected" and "forecasted." Please be advised that such statements are estimates only and there is no assurance that the results stated or implied by forward-looking statements will actually be realized by the company. Forward-looking statements may be based on management assumptions that prove to be wrong. The company and its business are subject to substantial risks and potential events beyond its control that would cause material differences between predicted results and actual results, including the company incurring operating losses and experiencing unexpected material adverse events. Media Contact: Grant Harvey [email protected] 805-698-5122 SOURCE Med-X, Inc. Related Links http://medx-rx.com InterCHARM BEAUTY EXPO KOREA is a global trade platform that is an integral part of beauty companies' business plan in exporting their brands to not only the Asian market including China but also those of Russia and Europe as well. International buyers can directly visit and participate in as domestic beauty manufacturers and distributors. The exhibition aims to focus and channel its capacity in promoting participating companies and buyers, utilizing Reed's network consisting of approximately 50 countries (ISG) and Russian and Eastern European network of InterCHARM, and introducing the quality and innovation of K-Beauty products. Approximately 300 exhibitors and 500 booths will be operated in 2017 InterCHARM BEAUTY EXPO KOREA. The objective is to expand the exhibition to 20,000sqm (1,000 booths) by 2020 and to 36,000sqm (1,800 booths) by 2025. The exhibited goods and services categories are consisted of cosmetics including skincare and makeup, hair, scalp and nail care products, accessories, cosmetics containers, subsidiary materials and service on demand, products and devices for professional beauty salons (Hair, Aesthetic, Spa), homecare products and devices, and eyelash products. Participants can check out not only products for retail but products for B2B as well. In addition, the exhibition will operate an online business match-making program (Biz Connect) in advance to the opening date in order to improve exhibitors' marketing performance. The exhibition is going to introduce and operate a professional business matching program to increase the matching efficiency and the contract success rate, as 2,000 buyers including invited buyers visit 2017 InterCHARM BEAUTY EXPO KOREA on average every year. SeoulMESSE International, the co-organizer of the exhibition has been promoting the competitiveness of small and mid-sized cosmetics & beauty companies in overseas markets and showcasing the excellence of 'Made in Korea' goods, by organizing the comprehensive cosmetics & beauty exhibition, BEAUTY EXPO KOREA for the last 14 years. "The InterCHARM BEAUTY EXPO KOREA which will be held in November, distinguishes itself through its competitiveness in an overseas network." said Byeong-ho Park, CEO of SeoulMESSE International, and added "We can proudly say that the exhibition will be able to promote the excellence of the Korean cosmetics industry, with the increase in our global buyers through Reed Exhibitions Group and InterCHARM's shared pool of global network." Reed K. Fairs Ltd. (CEO Seong-kwon Hong) is a domestic joint venture of Reed Exhibitions Group. Reed Exhibition Group is one of the most renowned global exhibition groups and organizes more than 500 professional exhibitions in over 39 countries. Through the joint organization of the event, Reed Exhibition group aims to expand competitiveness of Korean cosmetics and beauty companies that are attracting attention in world market, as well as expanding global markets, and to develop the international scale global exhibition to lead the global beauty market. Companies wishing to participate in InterCharm BEAUTY EXPO KOREA can inquire through SeoulMESSE International (02-2284-0008) or send an e-mail ([email protected]). Organizer Descriptio Seoul Messe International Co., Ltd. was established in 2002 as a Trade Fair organizer and hosted more than 10 industry exhibitions every year including Beauty Expo Korea, Seoul Auto Salon, and Electric PowerTech etc. SeoulMESSE has been making a total cosmetics and beauty exhibition for the last 15 years and is the representative exhibition organizer, being awarded by the government in recognition of the contribution to the development of the trade exhibition industry in 2015. Reed K. Fairs Ltd. Exhibitions is a joint venture between Reed Exhibitions, the world's leading exhibition company and K.Fairs Co., Ltd., Korea's leading exhibition organizer. Reed Exhibition is a subsidiary of Reed Elsevier Group, a publishing and media group, headquarter located in the United Kingdom, with 54 offices in 24 countries and approximately 3,800 employees. It is a global representative exhibition organizer that hosts over 500 professional exhibitions annually in over 39 countries. Inquiries: SeoulMESSE International Co., Ltd. Contact Point : Assistant manager Soojin Park Tel. 02-2284-0008 Mail. [email protected] SOURCE SeoulMESSE International Co., Ltd. MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- PI.EXCHANGE, the world's first personal data bank, after recently announcing their beta application's launch have reported that their first week of official beta marketing spend has surpassed all expectations and industry benchmarks by multiples. The company is experiencing average costs per installs of below $1 per person in a lot of countries and by all age groups, with downloads in 117 different countries around the world. Use your data to understand yourself better Traction & Growth Lead, Hersh Bhatt spoke of the strong initial traction saying, "Everyone in the PI.EXCHANGE family expected strong results as we believe we have a very strong product to offer. However, the near exponential growth at such a purposefully restricted budget is a surprise even to an optimist like myself. I strongly believe this shows the mass market is ready for a personal data economy and it will be our commitment as PI.EXCHANGE to be humankind's reliable yet intelligent partner in all things personal data." The company has confirmed that an Android version is in the works and they have assured fans that development will be accelerated for the Android version due to demand. The app not only promises individuals the ability to invest with and monetize their data but also offers a suite of free features including celebrity insights and personality comparisons, personal data visualization, social media personality analytics, location maps and likability insights that leverage sentiment analysis. Media Contact: Hersh Bhatt Phone: +61 431699429 Email: [email protected] Related Images image1.jpg Personal Analytics image2.jpg Analyze your favorite celebrities image3.png Effortless and free image4.png Watch your investment with data grow Related Links Website App Store SOURCE PI.EXCHANGE Related Links https://pi.exchange Gowen is a 30+ year veteran of the telecommunications and networking industry in the Federal contracting space. She will oversee significant expansion of MetTel's Federal Program, which is focused on providing communications solutions to Federal agencies. The program will be operated from the company's Washington, DC offices with support positions in all functional areas, including sales, engineering, contracts, proposals and administration. "Diana Gowen is clearly among the top communications thought leaders in the government space," said Marshall Aronow, CEO of MetTel. "She's been named 'Industry Executive of the Year' and exhibited that caliber of leadership through our application and ultimate award of the GSA EIS contract. We expect her guidance to help make MetTel the preferred vendor for Federal digital transformation." "Understanding the needs and nuances of government customers is key to serving them," said Gowen. "But just as important is making promises you can keep and delivering on them with superior customer service, for which MetTel has set the industry standard." MetTel's market leading customer service has been recognized with a Stevie Award for "Customer Service Department of the Year Telecommunications" for the past three years. In August, MetTel was named one of 10 companies to win a role in servicing the 15-year GSA EIS contract. EIS replaces the existing 10-year Networx contract. Federal agencies currently spend approximately $2 billion per year on network infrastructure, according to the GSA. MetTel simplifies networking for government agencies. The company's EIS Portal provides a centralized command and control center for all network operations. It provides a clear, dashboard view of network activities including traffic flow, service orders, expenses, inventory, equipment orders and assets. Using advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence, this first of its kind communications platform essentially runs the network, including resource decisions, once initial parameters are set. With the EIS Portal, MetTel can deliver a wide range of solutions and services to Federal agencies, including voice and data, hosting, managed mobility, wireless and network security services. Gowen joins MetTel after three years leading her own consulting business. Previously, she was the leader of CenturyLink Federal and oversaw the execution and development of CenturyLink's solutions for federal government customers. She also led Qwest Government Services before its acquisition by CenturyLink in 2011. With Gowen's guidance, Qwest emerged as a victor in the highly competitive 2007 Networx Universal and Enterprise contracts administered by the GSA and other government entities. Before joining Qwest in 2005, she was president of government solutions for Corvis and Broadwing Communications Gowen also previously served as vice president of MCI Government Markets, where she led the sales and program efforts for federal agencies helping secure 60 percent of the federal government's FTS2001 contract expenditures. She was also a key contributor to the development of MCI's early Internet and advanced data networking services. Gowen also served as an executive at AT&T, where she focused on sales, marketing and product management, including an assignment in Bell Lab's Venture Technology organization. She has received numerous industry awards. About MetTel MetTel is a leading global provider of integrated digital communications solutions for enterprise customers. By converging all communications over a proprietary network, MetTel enables enterprise companies to easily deploy and manage technology-driven voice, data, wireless and cloud solutions worldwide. MetTel's comprehensive portfolio of customer solutions boosts enterprise productivity, reduces costs and simplifies operations. Combining customized and managed communication solutions with a powerful platform of cloud-based software, the company's MetTel Portal enables customers to manage their inventory, usage, spend and repairs from one simple, user friendly interface. For more information visit www.mettel.net, follow us on Twitter (@OneMetTel) and on LinkedIn, or call us directly at 877.963.8663. MetTel. Smart Communications Solutions. Media Contacts Mike Azzi Corporate Communications, MetTel 347.420.0957 [email protected] Michelle Van Jura Intersect Communications, for MetTel 310.420.4062 [email protected] SOURCE MetTel Related Links http://www.mettel.net SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing to evolve as a growing force in the San Francisco Bay Area commercial real estate landscape, NAI Northern California forges into the third quarter of 2017 with revenue already surging past 2016. As of October, the brokerage has increased gross revenue by 21% over last year. Across retail, multifamily, office, industrial, and land, the total square footage of transactions closed by the team more than tripled. In regards to NAI Northern California's growth and the current market, President James Kilpatrick points out, "While the Bay Area has been experiencing an extraordinarily long real estate cycle, this seems to be accelerating further as our number of successful transactions is up by 31%." Multifamily investment sales are active as investors focus on residents looking beyond San Francisco to the East Bay. Top producing broker Shivu Srinivasan closed the $28.75 million acquisition of an 88 unit apartment complex at 4445 Stevenson Boulevard in Fremont and the $13 million sale of a 70 unit property at 250 West Jackson in Hayward. In retail, NAI Northern California is carving out a niche by successfully closing over $100 million in triple net shopping centers and single tenant properties this year. Top producer Mary Alam spearheaded the $13.6 million sale of the Newark Shopping Center and several Walgreens properties among others. Growing market share is directly impacted by the addition of talent. In 2017, experienced industry professionals Tony Alanis, Kevin Flaherty, Fritz Jacobs, Matt Gorman, Gregg Steele, Reggie Regino, Brent Stiggins, and Darija Walker joined the company's brokerage and financing groups. James Kilpatrick remarks, "Our growth is truly predicated on our talented team. We are unique in the commercial real estate industry, empowering our professionals to take a collaborative approach supported by a tech-forward platform that helps them be nimble as they get deals done for our clients." About NAI Northern California NAI Northern California is a progressive, full service commercial real estate firm serving the Bay Area. Recognized as one of the Top 25 Commercial Real Estate Firms by the East Bay and San Francisco Business Times, we are committed to delivering best in class services for our clients. www.nainorcal.com SOURCE NAI Northern California Related Links http://www.nainorcal.com Nanosilv e r Market share is poised to surpass USD 3.3 billion by 2024; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc. Robust demand for anti-microbial coating across food & beverage industry, healthcare, consumer applications, personal care, etc. will boost nanosilver market size. This is chiefly due to anti-microbial properties possessed by product which helps across several applications in the aforementioned industries. For instance, in the medical industry, product is used to manufacture tubes, bandages, ointments, etc. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160418/799556-a ) Sturdy growth in nano-technology based consumer electronics in North America will help in attaining promising gains in the nanosilver market size in the coming years. It is extensively used in manufacturing electronic devices & equipment owing to its high thermal & electrical conductivity in inks, pastes and adhesives. Increasing demand for superconductors is expected to bolster growth of the nanosilver market which is credited to space restraints which is otherwise required for conventional cables. In addition, demand for nanosilver inks is growing due to need for higher resolution ink required in printed electronics, especially in gravure, inkjet and flexographic printing. These trends are anticipated to make noteworthy contribution to nanosilver market size. Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2127 Strict laws and standards formulated by the U.S. EPA, FIFRA and other regulatory agencies against product applications due to its harmful implications on environment & human health will obstruct nanosilver market size. In addition, high product cost will be another factor which is likely to hinder nanosilver market size. Nanosilver market size for physical mode of synthesis attained a prominent industry size which is anticipated to rise at a moderate rate by 2024. In physical mode, it is synthesized by evaporation and condensation which is carried using tube furnace at atmospheric pressure. However, this mode is not preferred for product generation as tube furnace occupies large space and consume large amount of energy which needs significant amount of time to achieve thermal stability. Biological and chemical reduction mode of synthesis are usually preferred owing to several advantages including cost-effectiveness, energy efficient, etc. which is likely to help propel nanosilver market size in the forecast spell. Browse key industry insights spread across 135 pages with 147 market data tables & 28 figures & charts from the report, "Nanosilver Market Size By Mode of Synthesis (Physical, Biological, Chemical Reduction), By End-user (Electrical & Electronics, Healthcare, Food & Beverages, Textile, Water Treatment), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Spain, Italy, China, India, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, GCC), Application Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2017 - 2024" in detail along with the table of contents:https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/nanosilver-market Water treatment industry for nanosilver market size will witness growth close to 11% during the forecast timespan. This is primarily due to improving standards & legislations towards human health & environment primarily in the emerging economies which is likely to drive product demand over the projected timeframe. Product is extensively used as a disinfectant in drinking water supplies due to its biocidal properties. In 2016, Asia Pacific nanosilver market size contributed close to USD 300 million. Considerable industry growth rate will be witnessed in the region owing to sturdy pace of food & beverage, water treatment, personal care, textile and healthcare industry which is credited to improving socioeconomic factors. Moreover, improving health standards in Asia Pacific led to formulation of strict legislations to improve human health & environment is another factor which is likely to contribute effectively towards nanosilver market size in the coming years. Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2127 Key nanosilver industry share contributors are Creative Technology, Blue Nano, NovaCentrix, NanoMas Technologies, RAS, SILVIX, Bayer MaterialScience, Cambrios Technologies and Inkron. Browse Related Reports: Silver Nanoparticles Market Forecast, 2016 - 2024 Silver Nanoparticles Market size was over USD 1 billion in 2015 with close to 13% CAGR estimation forecast from 2016 to 2024. Rising application scope in healthcare and food & beverages industry due to its antimicrobial properties will drive the silver nanoparticles market. Improving product shelf life and prevention from pathogens are key essential properties. https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/silver-nanoparticles-market Carbon Nanotubes Market Forecast, 2016 - 2024 Carbon Nanotubes Market size was USD 1.35 billion in 2015, and is anticipated to grow at 22.1% between 2016 and 2024. Global carbon nanotubes market size is mainly driven by extensive applications across end-user industry. In recent years, demand for long wind turbine blades (>60 m) has increased significantly. These are exposed to higher values of mechanical stress during operation, leading to reduced performance. https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/carbon-nanotubes-market About Global Market Insights Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology. Contact Us: Arun Hegde Corporate Sales, USA Global Market Insights, Inc. Phone: +1-302-846-7766 Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.gminsights.com Blog: https://www.gminsights.com/blogs Connect with us: Facebook | Google+ | LinkedIn | Twitter SOURCE Global Market Insights, Inc. ORLANDO, Fla. and SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- National Airlines, (the "Company" or "National"), a leading U.S. Part 121 Certified Air Carrier specializing in custom transportation needs for corporations and government entities, is proud to announce that its 747-400 freighter fleet has operated 13 flights transporting 2.7 million pounds of much needed aide to Puerto Rico and quickly deliver goods to areas most devastated by Hurricane Maria. In addition, the Company operated a flight that transported more than 200 stranded cruise ship passengers on its 757-200 on a relief flight from Miami to San Juan. Seven of the cargo relief flights six originating in Dallas, Texas, and one in Atlanta, Georgia carried more than 1.5 million pounds of food and supplies to Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, a tourist town of nearly 60,000 on the western coast of Puerto Rico that was ravaged by Hurricane Maria's Category 5 storm surge that buried much of the commonwealth. San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital, has received the bulk of aid supplies from private and governmental organizations, secondary cities like Aguadilla remain in states of emergency and are in desperate need of supplies. "National Airlines has tirelessly supported Americans at home and abroad for nearly 20 years," noted Christopher Alf, Chairman and CEO. "In the case of Puerto Rico, National was able to mobilize quickly and efficiently to deliver massive amounts of necessary supplies to the island, and hopefully in the process, save lives." It is currently reported that only 10% of Puerto Rico has access to power and only 50% to clean drinking water. As part of the effort to quickly restore basic necessities to the country's 3.4 million citizens, National delivered 1.2 million pounds of supplies to San Juan. Originating in Miami, National delivered to San Juan trucks and other equipment necessary to restore power and phone access to the island, where many citizens remain unable to access mobile or land-line telephone service. "As a Company based in Florida, National Airlines is familiar with extreme weather and well equipped to handle emergency situations," said Mr. Alf. "We are proud of our employees for their swift response and call to action, and their resilience following Hurricane Irma to help others in need." National's relief efforts to support Puerto Rico remain ongoing. The Company remains committed to supporting those in need and will continue to provide logistics and transportation support to those affected by natural disasters around the world. About National Airlines National Airlines is a U.S. Certified Air Carrier that has specialized in custom transportation needs for companies and governments for over 20 years. With its headquarters based in Orlando, Florida, National Airlines possess World Wide Operating Authority for both passenger and cargo aircraft. National Airlines routinely flies from the U.S. and Europe to the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Australia, as well as North and South America. Contact: National Airlines Tricia Klingensmith 716.631.0011 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nationalairlines.com SOURCE National Airlines Related Links http://www.nationalairlines.com "Adding a COO to our structure optimizes the time our CEO can spend with our customers, while ensuring that our internal operations will be stronger than ever. I am excited to take on this new role and look forward to working with more of our talented staff here at NEF in this new position," commented Denja. Denja, who joined NEF in 2001 and has been CFO since 2011, will continue to serve in that capacity. Prior to joining NEF, he was a financial manager for BP. He has a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Illinois-Champaign/Urbana and an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. He is also a CPA. About National Equity Fund, Inc. National Equity Fund, Inc. is a leading syndicator of Low Income Housing Tax Credits. The Chicago-based non-profit is an affiliate of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation and has played an integral role in creating affordable housing options, revitalizing communities and strengthening local economies for more than 30 years. It has invested $13.3 billion in 2,494 LIHTC developments, creating approximately 158,907 affordable homes for low-income families and individuals. For more information, visit www.nefinc.org/ Contact: Maureen Mullady 312.697.6460 [email protected] SOURCE National Equity Fund Related Links http://www.nefinc.org The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. delayed a vote on a nearly $3 billion incentive package for Taiwanese manufacturer Foxconn until November after an unspecified problem was discovered with the deal board members were set to vote on Tuesday. Sen. Tim Carpenter, D-Milwaukee, declined to describe the problem but characterized it as a nuclear bomb that, had it not been addressed, would have resulted in a contract that would not have protected taxpayers whatsoever. WEDC board chairwoman Lisa Mauer confirmed the vote was pushed back because of a particular concern but also declined to provide specifics. She said it was detected late in the negotiating process. We want to get this right, Mauer said. When something goes awry, you step back and you address that specific issue, and that is whats going to happen. Foxconn has pledged to invest $10 billion and create up to 13,000 jobs at a new LCD manufacturing facility in Mount Pleasant in Racine County. In return the state plans to give the company $2.85 billion in refundable tax credits for jobs and for the construction of the campus. The company would be exempt from another $150 million in sales taxes, be eligible for lower utility rates and be exempt from some environmental regulations. The state wont break even on the investment until 2043. Foxconn also stands to receive a $100 million incentive as part of a $764 million tax incremental financing district for infrastructure improvements offered by local officials in Racine County. WEDC CEO Mark Hogan declined to discuss details of where the negotiation stands. He noted the final vote wont happen in the next two weeks because he will be on a trade mission to Israel with Gov. Scott Walker from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2. Were going to take whatever time is required to get it right, Hogan said. Its very complex. Hogan said the delay in voting on a contract is not an indication the company is having second thoughts about locating in the state. I think youve seen that Foxconn has been very visible in the community in recent weeks and I think that theyre committed to it, Hogan said. Theyre moving forward as if this transaction is going to take place. The WEDC board met in closed session to discuss the contract negotiations related to the Foxconn deal, the broad strokes of which Walker and the Legislature have already approved. Carpenter cast the lone vote opposing the boards move into closed session. The WEDC board unanimously approved the agencys new policy for an Electronics and Information Technology Manufacturing Zone, which the Legislature created specifically for the Foxconn project. Unlike an Enterprise Zone, which until recently was the agencys most potent economic development tool, the new zone requires that Foxconn select a third-party accountant approved by WEDC to verify the total investment and job creation at the facility, which could break ground as soon as next spring. A contract has not been finalized between WEDC and Foxconn. Before voting, the board will review a staff underwriting report that details the terms of the agreement and allows WEDC staff to go forward with finalizing the contract, WEDC spokesman Mark Maley said. The board wont review or vote on the actual contract, Maley added. In an interview with the Wisconsin State Journal, Carpenter, who voted against the Foxconn bill, expressed frustration that the board wouldnt be able to review the contract details. He said he received the first draft of the underwriting document Friday, and then received two revisions on Monday. Theres no way I could swear on a Bible and say I knew exactly what was in that staff report, Carpenter said. He said he raised several questions about language in the report. One issue he raised was the language didnt appear to compel WEDC to rescind tax credits if the company wasnt complying with the terms of the contract. He said he asked for the vote to be delayed, but he didnt learn it would be delayed until Tuesday morning after a separate issue that he had not raised was discovered by WEDC officials. If WEDC has been secretive in the past with protecting taxpayers, theyre continuing that to the Nth degree, Carpenter said. The award represents the culmination of the NORELL x PARSONS x NEIMAN MARCUS spring 2017 design course, challenging students to create an original look reflecting the legendary designer's heritage. A first for both renowned institutions, the course allowed students to realize their design potential, taking their concepts all the way from the classroom to the luxury consumer. Galante, a 2017 Parsons graduate from Marengo, Illinois, designed a hand-sequined silk georgette gown. Demonstrating both a respect for the designer's legacy and an eye for innovation, Galante drew inspiration from Norell's classic style, reinterpreted with a modern twist. Galante's winning look was selected by a noted committee of judges, including photographer, Michael Avedon; designer and author, Jeffery Banks; Parsons Dean of Fashion, Burak Cakmak; Neiman Marcus Fashion Director, Ken Downing; Fashion Group International President & CEO, Margaret Hayes; Parlux Fragrances, Ltd. President & Fashion Group International Chairman, Donald Loftus; CR Fashion Book Editor, Ray Siegel; and designer, Jason Wu. "The great opportunity to research Norman Norell and the brand's extensive heritage was such a highlight of my time at Parsons. To have my Norell-inspired gown go from concept to sketch to sample, to then being highlighted in the Christmas Book and sold from the Neiman Marcus flagship store in Dallas, feels more special than I ever could have imagined," said Galante. "Redefining the future of fashion can only be realized with a complete understanding and appreciation of fashions past," says Neiman Marcus Fashion Director, Ken Downing. "I was taken with Anthony's ability to capture the vocabulary, the emotion, and embrace the true craftsmanship of Norman Norell; these are marks of a great talent." "We are excited to revive the spirit of Norell's iconic fashion through this incredible partnership with Neiman Marcus, as we celebrate the success of the newly-introduced Norell Fragrance Collection, and realize the dreams of this talented rising fashion designer," said Parlux Fragrances, LTD. President, Donald Loftus. Galante's award winning Norell-inspired hand sequined silk georgette gown will be available for purchase by special order in the 2017 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book retailing for $2,500.00, alongside the new Norell Blushing fragrance ($150). Galante's winning look will also be featured in the Neiman Marcus Downtown Dallas flagship store. ABOUT PARLUX FRAGRANCES LTD. A leading global beauty company, Parlux Fragrances LLC/LTD designs, manufactures, markets and distributes prestige designer fragrances and related products since 1987. Parlux Fragrances LTD is a wholly owned subsidiary of Perfumania Holdings Inc., an independent, national, vertically integrated wholesale distributor and specialty retailer of fragrances and related products. ABOUT PARSONS SCHOOL OF DESIGN Parsons School of Design at The New School, founded in 1896, is one of the leading institutions for art and design education in the world. Based in New York but active around the world, the school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the full spectrum of art and design disciplines, as well as online courses, degree and certificate programs. Critical thinking and collaboration are at the heart of a Parsons education. Parsons graduates are leaders in their respective fields, with a shared commitment to creatively and critically addressing the complexities of life in the 21st century. ABOUT NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP Neiman Marcus Group LTD LLC is a luxury, multi-branded, omni-channel fashion retailer conducting integrated store and online operations under the Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Last Call, Horchow, CUSP, and mytheresa brand names. For more information, visit www.neimanmarcusgroup.com. Keep up with the latest news and events happening at Neiman Marcus by becoming a fan on Facebook, following us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, and subscribing to Neiman Marcus theblog. SOURCE Parlux Fragrances LTD NEW YORK, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Mohandas Narla, DSc, Vice President of Research at New York Blood Center (NYBC), has been awarded a $6.5M Program Project grant over five years ($1.3M per year) from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The project, entitled "Regulation of Human Erythropoiesis," will address the developmental steps in red cell production in normal and disease states. Principal Investigators on the award include Dr. Patrick Gallagher from the Yale School of Medicine and Dr. Naomi Tayler from the University of Montpellier. Dr. Narla has been the Director of the NIDDK-funded Program Project, which has had a continuous focus on red cell physiology and pathology since the 1970s. Over the years, his illustrious research program has led to improved understanding of the molecular and structural basis for red cell membrane disorders, developing detailed mechanistic insights into pathophysiology of Thalassemia's and Sickle Cell Anemia, characterizing structural and functional changes induced in red cells by the malarial parasite, plasmodium falciparum, and more recently, molecular understanding of erythropoiesis with particular emphasis on disordered erythropoiesis in Diamond-Blackfan Anemia and Myelodysplasia. He has continually renewed the present Project Program Grant for over 25 years, an admirable record of funding for transfusion medicine research. "This award is much deserved recognition of Dr. Narla's continued outstanding contributions to red blood cell biology nationwide and around the world," said NYBC President and CEO Christopher D. Hillyer, MD. "We are incredibly proud of his four decades of groundbreaking work to advance the frontiers of non-malignant hematology with impact on transfusion medicine research." Dr. Narla received his doctoral degree from Washington University in St. Louis in Chemical Engineering in 1971. After completing post-doctoral training in hematology research with Dr. Marcel Bessis at Institute of Cellular Pathology in Paris, he joined the faculty of the Department of Laboratory Medicine at University of California in 1976 where he spent 13 years. In 1989, he moved to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, University of California, to head the Hematopoiesis group. During his 12-year tenure at the Berkeley Laboratory, he also served as Interim Director of the Human Genome Project for three years. In 2001, he moved to NYBC. For the last 40 years, Dr. Narla has served on numerous NIH review and advisory panels. He has been on the Executive Committee of the American Society of Hematology and served as the Chairperson of the Awards Committee. He was also an Associate Editor of Blood from 2003-2012 and is currently the Editor-in-Chief of Blood Cells, Molecules and Diseases and sits on the Editorial Board of Biochemistry and Current Opinion in Hematology. He has authored some 380 peer-reviewed publications and 100 review articles and book chapters. About New York Blood Center Founded in 1964, New York Blood Center (NYBC) is a nonprofit organization that is one of the largest independent, community-based blood centers in the world. NYBC, along with its partner organizations Community Blood Center of Kansas City, Missouri (CBC), Innovative Blood Resources (IBR), Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD), and Rhode Island Blood Center (RIBC), collect approximately 4,000 units of blood products each day and serve local communities of more than 45 million people in the Tri-State area (NY, NJ, CT), Mid Atlantic area (PA, DE, MD), the Kansas City metropolitan area, Minnesota, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and Southern New England. NYBC and its partners also provide a wide array of transfusion-related medical services, including Comprehensive Cell Solutions, the National Center for Blood Group Genomics, the National Cord Blood Program, and the Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, which among other milestones developed the Hepatitis B vaccine and a patented solvent detergent plasma process innovating blood-purification technology worldwide. Website: www.nybc.org CONTACT: Chandler Wilson, 1-800-933-2563, [email protected] SOURCE New York Blood Center Related Links http://www.nybc.org BOZEMAN, Mont., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Next Frontier Capital announced the successful first close of Fund II with $22 million in LP Subscriptions. The Fund II target is $30 million. Will Price, Founder and General Partner, noted "the first close enables us to continue to execute on our mission to invest in companies of impact, utility, and value. With the first close complete, we turn our attention to a healthy pipeline of Fund II prospective investments, while maintaining focus on building value across our ten Fund I companies. The first close of Fund II is constituted by Fund I LPs. We are humbled by their vote of confidence, which we attribute to the value our founders and management teams are creating." Next Frontier Capital's Fund I investments are SiteOne Therapeutics, Submittable, Clearas, Quiq, Orbital Shift, IronCore Labs, Phoenix Labs, Blackmore Sensors, OppSource, and Remix Labs; with $10m invested to date across ten companies, nine Montana related, with an additional $42m invested from co-investors. The balance of Fund I is reserved for follow-on investments in the current portfolio. Richard Harjes, General Partner, commented, "Since our founding in 2015, we have quintupled the amount of capital being invested in MT entrepreneurs and are proud to have tier one firms, such as Venrock, True Ventures, Amgen Ventures, Millennium Technology Value Partners, and others as co-investors in MT companies. The capital we invest is driving company growth, with nearly 100 net new jobs created in Montana at an average annual wage of $106,000. NFC Fund I validated our thesis that Montana is home to quality entrepreneurs previously ignored by the broader venture market. It showed that investment opportunities exist to source, lead, and syndicate venture class deals in MT, and that top tier firms will co-invest with us. We expect Fund II to broaden and solidify this initial success." Morton Meyerson, Founder of the 2M Companies, former CEO of EDS and Perot Data Systems, former CTO with General Motors, and a Limited Partner in both NFC Funds, remarked, "Our family has invested with NFC for three reasons: excellent performance, excellent and open communications with investors, and a chance to invest in and help new Montana companies." "Submittable existed for 5 years before NFC started and found raising capital in Montana next to impossible," said Michael Fitzgerald, co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Submittable, based in Missoula, Montana. "Shortly after NFC arrived in 2015, we partnered with them and have since dramatically increased our growth rate -- 300% both in revenue and headcount. Their investment also attracted additional investment from Silicon Valley firms who wouldn't have previously been looking to Montana for opportunities. It's fair to say NFC has singlehandedly leveled the playing field for Montana startups." "The job creation and economic catalyst that Next Frontier Capital has provided for Montana continues to demonstrate how much needed risk capital can drive innovation and growth in our tech sectors," said Stan Abel, President and Chief Executive Officer of SiteOne Therapeutics and Chairman of the Montana Bioscience Alliance. "The diverse portfolio of the firm demonstrates the excellent investment opportunities in Montana. We are proud that SiteOne Therapeutics is a part of the Next Frontier family and value their support and guidance as we continue to advance our portfolio of non-opioid pain therapeutics." CB Insights recently recognized Next Frontier Capital as the most active venture investor in MT, a state poised to benefit from fast-growing technology entrepreneurship. Price noted, "We believe that Bozeman and Missoula are well on their way to becoming the next Boulder or Provo, places where industry-defining companies can be built with a quality of life not found in major urban markets." About Next Frontier Capital Next Frontier Capital partners with mission-driven, talented entrepreneurs to build Montana technology companies of national impact, utility and value. Founded in 2015, the Firm is backed by a well-diversified pool of investors, endowments, foundations, and executives from the world's top technology and financial firms, who join us in recognizing the region's extraordinary growth in technology deal flow. Next Frontier Capital is based in Bozeman, Montana. The fund has made ten investments to date: SiteOne Therapeutics, Submittable, Clearas, Quiq, Orbital Shift, Phoenix Labs, Blackmore Sensors and Analytics, IronCore Labs, OppSource, and Remix Labs. The Fund has invested $10m to date and attracted an additional $42m in co-investment from leading firms, and first time MT investors, such as Venrock, True Ventures, Amgen Ventures, Millennium Technology Value Partners, and others, thereby quintupling the amount of capital available to Montana founders. More information available at www.nextfrontiercapital.com SOURCE Next Frontier Capital Related Links http://www.nextfrontiercapital.com LORAIN, Ohio, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Social Security Disability law firm Roose & Ressler has tapped leading Ohio based marketing and branding firm The Eisen Agency to develop and direct marketing activities. With offices in Lorain, Toledo, Wooster and Mansfield, Roose & Ressler works with clients to assist them with their Social Security Disability claims. Law firm principle Jon Ressler said it was important that he hired a professional marketing firm that understood the complexities of law firm marketing, while maintaining a solid communications strategy that remains true to the personality of the firm. "When we contracted with The Eisen Agency, we saw immediately that they understood not only what needed to be done, but were also sensitive to our long and proud history," Ressler said. "Most importantly, we are focused on serving the disabled people of our community that need help with their benefits claims, so marketing was always last on our agenda. With The Eisen Agency, we know things are taken care of and we'll be able to serve more deserving Northern Ohioans." The Eisen Agency CEO Rodger Roeser explained that his agency will be doing a general refresh of existing marketing materials, including a refreshed brand and message that focuses on the core strengths of Roose & Ressler their personal attention, and the fact that they are a local community based business. "We'll have an entirely new online experience for their clients and we'll also make them easier to find and engage with, through programs in social media, community relations, and direct local reach outs to influencers in each of the four communities," Roeser said. "It's gratifying to work with such a grounded organization that is so focused on the needs and goodwill of their clients. They are an amazing organization with top notch leadership, and we look forward to spreading the word about them." About Roose & Ressler Founded in 1982 and serving claimants throughout Northern Ohio from their offices in Lorain, Toledo, Wooster and Mansfield, Roose & Ressler is a social security disability law firm. The attorneys work with Northern Ohioans who need assistance with a social security disability claim or those who have been denied their claim. More information can be accessed at www.RooseLaw.com. About The Eisen Agency Founded in 2001 by owner and president Rodger Roeser, The Eisen Agency serves clients across the country from their offices in Greater Cleveland and Greater Cincinnati. The multiple award winning marketing, branding and public relations firm specializes in providing strategic marketing planning and tactical marketing support services to businesses in the professional services, manufacturing and retail industries. More information can be accessed at www.TheEisenAgency.com. SOURCE Eisen Management Group Related Links http://www.eisenmanagementgroup.com VANCOUVER, British Columbia, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- NRG Metals Inc. (the "Company") ("NRG" or the "Company") (TSX-V: NGZ) (OTCQB: NRGMF) (Frankfurt OGPN), is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Letter of Intent ("LOI") with Chengdu Chemphys Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. ("Chemphys') located in Chengdu, China, regarding the further exploration and development of the Hombre Muerto North Lithium Project ("HMNLP"). The LOI also includes a Lithium Offtake Sales Agreement and various other terms as discussed below. ABOUT CHEMPHYS Chemphys was established in 1998, and has since grown into a high-tech enterprise, both ISO9001 and ISO14001 certified. The company specialises in the production of high purity (99.99%) Lithium Carbonate and battery grade Lithium Hydroxide for the manufacturing of cathode materials and electrolytes of lithium ion batteries. Chemphys was one of the first Chinese suppliers to export high purity Lithium Carbonate and battery grade Lithium Hydroxide to leading cathode materials and lithium hexafluorphosphate manufacturers in Japan and South Korea. Chemphys also produces 99.995% Lithium Carbonate which is used to manufacture single crystal substrates for surface acoustic wave and integrated optic devices. In addition, the company produces high purity Lithium Carbonate and Boric Acid for the production of fusion fluxes, Lithium Borates for XRF analysis, and numerous other specialized materials. Chemphys has a strong research and development capability and works closely with customers to develop new materials. Chemphys product is recognized by all major lithium ion battery materials manufacturers and is an integral part of the electric vehicle supply chain. TERMS OF LOI The purpose of the LOI is to combine the development expertise of NRG, with the high purity processing expertise of Chemphys. As a part of this process, the two parties intend to complete a private placement as described below for the financing of the HMNLP, which is currently under exploration. The intent is to quickly evaluate the project, and if deemed feasible (upon the completion of exploration and due diligence, and satisfactory studies which may include a Preliminary Economic Assessment), rapidly move the project into production. In addition, NRG has agreed to an off-take agreement with Chemphys for the sale of any lithium produced at HMNLP, as well as a first right of refusal and first right of offer for the sale of lithium produced at any other projects that NRG moves forward, board representation and certain anti-dilution provisions and a use of proceeds agreement. The private placement discussed above will be placed with investors acceptable to Chemphys. The private placement will consist of units at CDN$0.10 per unit. Each unit will be comprised of one common share and one transferable common share purchase warrant exercisable for a period of three years at an exercise price of CDN$0.20 per warrant. The total financing will represent no less than 15% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company and it is anticipated that the financing will be approximately 14,000,000 units for gross proceeds of CDN$1.4 million. The private placement funding was price protected September 29, 2017 with the TSX Venture Exchange, will be reviewed by the Exchange, and is subject to Exchange and Regulatory Approval. No finder's fee will be payable in connection with this transaction. Company President Adrian F.C. Hobkirk is quoted "We are very pleased to have developed a relationship with one of the most recognised producers of high purity lithium in the world. The financial and technical support of Chemphys will greatly increase the path for NRG to become a near term lithium producer in Argentina. We are excited to be fast tracking and commencing the exploration program at HMNLP. This project along with the drill program at Salar Escondido will help NRG meet these goals." Ms. Alison Dai, of Chemphys is quoted "We are excited to establish a strategic partnership with NRG who have an experienced team in place to develop the HMNLP and Salar Escondido. We look forward to working closely with NRG's team to expedite the projects into production." On behalf of the board of directors of NRG Metals Inc., Adrian F.C.Hobkirk President and C.E.O. The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed the content of this news release and therefore does not accept responsibility or liability for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release. This news release is not for distribution or dissemination in the United States and accordingly, shall not constitute an offer of securities in the United States. The securities that may be issued pursuant to this news release are not currently qualified by prospectus or registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or the laws of any state, and may not be offered or sold in the United States, or to, or for the account or benefit of United States persons (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) or persons in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. The securities are subject to resale restrictions under applicable securities laws. This news release contains certain "forward- looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The transaction described in this news release is subject to a variety of conditions and risks which include but are not limited to: regulatory approval, shareholder approval, market conditions, legal due diligence for claim validity, financing, political risk, security risks at the property locations and other risks. As such, the reader is cautioned that there can be no guarantee that this transaction will complete as described in this news release. We seek safe harbour. Contact: T: 714.316.3272 E: [email protected] W: www.nrgmetalsinc.com SOURCE NRG Metals Inc IRVING, Texas, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- October is National Crime Prevention Month, and it is a great time to join ranks with law enforcement to help them more efficiently identify and apprehend suspects. Many local law enforcement departments have video surveillance registration programs where residents and businesses can voluntarily enter their video surveillance systems into a database so police can easily identify cameras that may have captured footage from a crime. This saves precious time when trying to get a criminal off the street, because police don't have to spend as much time canvassing an area for video footage. "Every day there are countless news reports using footage from surveillance cameras to help detect, identify and apprehend suspected criminals," says Angela White, president of the Electronic Security Association. "Video surveillance functionalities and security technologies used in both residential and commercial settings are continuously evolving. From facial recognition capabilities to auto-zoom and tracking, these features can go a long way in supporting local law enforcement investigations." Recently, law enforcement officials were able to apprehend a man who violently killed the 70-year-old widow of a pastor in Somerset, Ky., due in part to video surveillance. When the suspect walked past the door of ESA Member Company, Modern Systems, the company's video surveillance cameras automatically zoomed-in and tracked his movements on the property. David Morris, president of Modern Systems, located in Somerset, identified the suspect when reviewing footage and reported it to police. According to news reports, the suspect was later arrested in Tennessee and has confessed to the murder. "We encourage residents and businesses to contact their local law enforcement office to determine if a video surveillance database has been established in their community and if so, enter their video surveillance system into the database," White says. "Video surveillance footage from homes and businesses has been especially critical in solving crimes from random burglaries to kidnappings, murders and terrorist attacks." While securing your home and property, you can also help better secure your neighborhood and community. "Smart home security systems can detect potential criminal activity while residents are away from home," says White. "These systems continuously capture and analyze everyday activity in and around the home, automatically sending alerts to users' smartphones or professional monitoring centers when unusual activity is detected or a sensor is triggered." Through integrated video and audio technologies, homeowners and trained professionals at monitoring centers can see and hear what is taking place in real time, so the appropriate authorities are alerted immediately. When installing a video surveillance system, White recommends using high-resolution video cameras and testing the angle of the cameras regularly. This helps ensure the cameras are always pointing in the most advantageous direction to capture activity at entryways and other critical areas of your home and property. It is also important to review the quality of the video throughout the year to make sure the resolution is optimized. Seasonal lighting changes can affect the quality of the video feed. For more information and tips, visit www.Alarm.org. About ESA and Alarm.Org The Electronic Security Association (ESA) is the largest professional trade association in the U.S. representing the electronic life safety, security and integrated systems industry. ESA is dedicated to educating consumers and businesses about security technologies, including intrusion and fire detection, video surveillance and electronic access control. Through Alarm.org, we provide a wide range of information that will help consumers and businesses make smart security and life safety decisions. Advances in technology are expanding the range of options available, making it easier than ever to customize security and life safety solutions to meet a wide variety of needs and budgets. Alarm.org provides extensive resources, including information about the latest technologies, reliable resources for installation and professional monitoring, as well as tips for using your system to its full potential. Media Contact Allen Haynes 404.446.1677 [email protected] SOURCE Electronic Security Association (ESA) Related Links http://www.esaweb.org ATLANTA, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The growth of micro-hospitals, where small neighborhood hospitals offer care tailored to the specific needs of a community, is dramatic. Companies that are building and operating these facilities are relying on telemedicine to help them provide the faster, more personalized service their healthcare model demands. Cited as a new trend in healthcare in a recent U.S. News & World Report article, micro-hospitalssometimes called neighborhood or community hospitalstypically have eight to 10 short-stay beds and provide the inpatient care, emergency care, imaging and lab services typically performed in larger hospitals. Some also offer outpatient surgery. A perfect environment for telemedicine "It's a perfect environment for telemedicine, and an enormous opportunity for our company," said Talbot "Mac" McCormick, MD, president and CEO of Eagle Telemedicine. "Providing telehospitalist collaborative care is a role we'll be filling with a rapidly growing micro-hospital company headquartered in Texasas well as telespecialty coverage for the company, including TeleCardiology, TeleNeurology, Tele-ID (Infectious Disease) and Tele-ICU. We've had strong interest from other micro-hospital companies in recent months, as well." Cropping up in communities in more than a dozen states, micro-hospitals offer an appealing combination: They are cheaper and faster to build than larger hospitals. They can be tailored to the specific needs of a community depending on age, economic profile, and other factors. They offer a wider range of services than an urgent-care center, and a model that provides faster, more personalized service than a large hospital. "One could say that the growth and viability of the micro-hospital model wouldn't be possible without telemedicine, where specialists in a range of disciplines can be beamed in to provide the expertise needed for diagnosing and treating patients, as well as to provide backup and guidance for nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs), who are assuming key leadership roles in micro-hospitals," McCormick said. A solution that leverages a changing healthcare workforce In an age where the supply of NPs and PAs is growing, this company's model for telemedicine support makes good sense. A report by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration states: By 2020, the supply of primary care NPs is projected to increase by 30 percent, from 55,400 in 2010 to 72,100. The supply of primary care PAs is projected to increase by 58 percent, from 27,700 to 43,900 over the same period. The HRSA also reports a projected shortage of 20,400 primary care physicians (PCP) against demand in 2020. A similar shortage of specialists like intensivists, pulmonologists, neurologists, cardiologists, psychiatrists, and othersparticularly in rural Americaholds the door wide open for telemedicine to fill the gaps. Telemedicine provides a range of specialized care available at a moment's notice Telemedicine makes specialists available any time of the day or night. A group of specialists who contract with the telemedicine provider handles calls, and can respond either by phone or text message. Or, if the situation warrants, the physicians can diagnose and prescribe treatment for the patient via two-way videoconferencing technology, a cart or robot equipped with diagnostic equipment and a monitor that provides for face-to-face communication with patients and staff. The telespecialists might be in the same state and time zone; they might be across the country or, in some instances, halfway around the world, but they must be licensed in the state and credentialed by the hospital at which they are practicing. Wherever they are, response time is fast. To illustrate, teleneurology specialists typically achieve an average response time of 3.5 minutes (a fraction of the time it typically takes for a local neurologist to get in the car and drive to the hospital), and an average diagnosis and treatment time of 21.8 minutes. "For the past nine years, we have provided teleneurology services and other specialties for traditional acute-care hospitals that want to offer a specific specialty," McCormick said. "But micro-hospitals are looking for a different approach. They want to have a range of specialties available that they can dial into when they need them, and when NPs and PAs need expertise and decision-support. We look forward to being part of the success of micro-hospitals as this new healthcare model becomes a sensible choice for many communities." About Eagle Telemedicine Eagle Telemedicine was one of the first companies to emerge in the telemedicine physician service arena, and is still pioneering the industry nearly a decade later, providing telemedicine programs to health systems, critical access hospitals, acute care hospitals, micro-hospitals, and long-term acute care hospitals (LTACHs). Eagle's solutions help facilities offer specialized care to underserved communities, eliminate locum support costs, prevent physician burnout, manage coverage gaps, reduce unnecessary transfers, and increase patient census. Multiple specialties include Hospitalist Medicine, Stroke and Acute Neurology, Psychiatry, Critical Care, and Cardiology. Other staffing support services include NP/PA Backup, Nocturnist Coverage, Cross-Coverage, and ED Surge Protection. For more information, visit www.eagletelemedicine.com. Media Contact: Jan Sisko Carabiner Communications O: 678.461.7438 M: 678.591.2022 E: [email protected] SOURCE Eagle Telemedicine Related Links http://www.eagletelemedicine.com He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Penguin Random House, the world's largest trade book publisher and has served on its Board of Directors since the company's inception. Over the past three decades in higher education, Hoffman has held numerous leadership positions including Chairman and CEO of the Learning Network; President, Pearson Inc., Chief Financial and Chief Administrative Officer of the Penguin Group; and Chief Financial Officer, Pearson Inc. "I am delighted to join the Board of Directors of Academic Partnerships, a company with an unmatched track record for helping public universities expand access to their high-quality and affordable degree programs through online learning," said Hoffman. Randy Best, Chairman of the Board of Academic Partnerships commented, "Phil's deep experience and leadership in our sector will be invaluable to AP during this period of rapid expansion. I am looking forward to our collaboration." In addition to serving on the boards of Academic Partnerships and Penguin Random House, Phil currently sits on the boards of GED Testing Service and Ilumno Holdings, Ltd. His prior board appointments include The Economist Group, Interactive Data Corporation and MarketWatch. About Academic Partnerships Academic Partnerships is a leading online service provider for higher education globally. The company assists universities in converting their on-campus degree programs into an online format, recruits qualified students for those programs, and supports enrolled students through graduation. Serving public and private not-for-profit universities in the United States and top international institutions, Academic Partnerships is guided by the principle that the opportunities presented through technology-aided learning make higher education more accessible and affordable. The company was founded by a group of social entrepreneurs who have spent nearly 20 years developing innovative learning solutions to improve education. For more information, please visit www.academicpartnerships.com. Media Contact: Molly Casey 214-210-4017 SOURCE Academic Partnerships Related Links http://www.academicpartnerships.com "As automotive domestic, international and tech communities all converge in Detroit, there is no better time as during NAIAS to acknowledge companies making the biggest impact on the mobility industry," said Trevor Pawl, group vice president of PlanetM at MEDC. "The PlanetM Awards will bring additional value and programming to AutoMobili-D, where mobility companies meet to access networking, partnership, business development and industry advancement opportunities." The PlanetM Awards will further extend support for leading mobility enterprises by honoring those developing industry advancements. All AutoMobili-D exhibitors are encouraged to submit their best product for recognition in one of the following categories: Autonomous Driving Connected Car eMobility Mobility Services Smart Cities "With the global array of companies showcasing and debuting exciting technologies and products within AutoMobili-D, having a dedicated award to acknowledge the best of show adds additional exposure to participating enterprises," said Ryan LaFontaine, 2018 NAIAS Chairman. "We greatly value our close partnership with the MEDC as it has allowed us to bring new opportunities and expand the reach of our show each year." Each category winner will go into a final selection round for the PlanetM Best in Show award. Separately, PlanetM will also announce a Startup of the Year award from the exhibiting startups at the show. Awards will be presented at the PlanetM Awards ceremony on January 15, 2018. Award submissions will be accepted through November 26, 2017 at 12 a.m. EST. Category winners will be announced on December 12, 2017. For additional questions regarding the PlanetM Awards, please reach out to: [email protected]. PlanetM launched in 2016 as a collaborative branding effort to promote Michigan as the epicenter of mobility, which further elevates Michigan's leadership in talent development, automotive R&D and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) testing. The inaugural launch of AutoMobili-D in 2017 featured more than 180 brands, ranging from automakers, to suppliers and tech startups as well as universities and government organizations. No other event in North America provides an international platform for this vast array of companies, organizations and thought leaders under one roof. About PlanetM PlanetM represents Michigan's unique and vast ecosystem, connecting resources and opportunities for its consortium of members. Made up of private industry, government and institutions of higher learning, partners in PlanetM share the common goal of leading the development of smart solutions that will change the way people and goods are transported across all modes of transportation. To learn more about how Michigan is leading the transportation revolution or to become a member, visit PlanetM. About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state's marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community and talent development with the focus on growing Michigan's economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Visit Pure Michigan Talent Connect at www.mitalent.org for more information on Michigan's online marketplace for connecting job seekers and employers. Join the conversation on: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. About the North American International Auto Show Now in its 30th year as an international event, the NAIAS is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, technologies, people and ideas that matter most up close and in one place. Administered by executive director Rod Alberts, the NAIAS is one of the largest media events in North America, and the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. For more information, visit naias.com. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for highlights and updates. 2018 NAIAS Dates: The Gallery Saturday, January 13, 2018 AutoMobili-D Sunday-Sunday, January 14-21, 2018 Press Preview Monday-Tuesday, January 14-16, 2018 Industry Preview Wednesday-Thursday, January 17-18, 2018 Charity Preview Friday, January 19, 2018 Public Show Saturday-Sunday, January 20-28, 2018 SOURCE North American International Auto Show Related Links http://naias.com WOODBRIDGE, Conn. and WARSAW, Poland, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- PlumCare, a DNA advisory service for families, today announced a partnership with PBKM FamiCord, the European leader in cord blood stem cell banking. The new collaboration will deliver the first-ever lifetime DNA testing and advisory services to help families take control of their health. The service is called PlumCare DNA Advisor - it provides families one place for DNA testing, genetic advisory services and the ongoing monitoring of scientific advances relevant to them. "PlumCare DNA Advisor is like having a friend who's an expert and monitors the latest advances in our understanding of the human genome. The DNA Advisor has a full image of your DNA and reaches out to you every time there's a new breakthrough that could impact your health, explaining it in easy to understand terms. They help guide you and your healthcare provider when needed to manage your family's health with insights in a way never before possible," said Petros Tsipouras, Co-Founder and CEO of PlumCare. PlumCare combines the simplicity of a saliva-based DNA test, whole exome sequencing (the standard for a more complete image of a person's DNA), data from close family members (important to data interpretation), family medical history, external research, ongoing monitoring of scientific advances and analysis. The resulting insights and advice help families to manage their well-being across generations. "We've heard from our customers that they are interested in DNA testing services," said Jakub Baran CEO of PBKM FamiCord. "Earlier DNA testing offers have been interesting, but only provide a snapshot of human DNA understanding at that moment in time. They did not consider the needs of new families. We've been looking for a way to more fully deliver on the promise of genetic insights and do it in a way that caters to the families over the course of their lives." Initial children's reports provide insights about hearing, cardiac, connective tissue, metabolic, seizures, cancers and response to anesthesia. Adults will also receive information focused on cardiac, connective tissue, cancer and response to medications and anesthesia. Sending DNA samples is only the beginning of a lifelong relationship. With a PlumCare DNA Advisor subscription, all participating family members can look forward to valuable annual reports and notifications. When new discoveries are made, each individual can take full advantage of what evolving knowledge and technology can mean to them. When appropriate, PlumCare DNA Advisor will provide genetic counseling and referrals to local specialists who can translate these insights into better life choices. About PlumCare PlumCare was created for families by two eminent clinical geneticists, Dr. Paul Billings and Dr. Petros Tsipouras. PlumCare DNA Advisor provides access to the progress in genetics through DNA testing, analysis, insights, and learnings from world-class research. The service combines the simplicity of saliva-based whole exome DNA testing, data from all participating family members (family trios or more), family medical history, external research and analysis. With a subscription, the service provides ongoing monitoring of scientific advances with annual reports and notifications. The insights, advice and access to local specialists help families to manage unexpected or chronic illnesses and their well-being across generations for a lifetime. Learn more at www.plumcarehealth.com . About PBKM FamiCord Polski Bank Komorek Macierzystych (PBKM, Polish Stem Cell Bank) leads FamiCord Group which is international group of cord blood banks. FamiCord is by far the European leader in newly banked cord blood units and currently stores more than 150,000 cord blood units. The main area of PBKM business is family cord blood banking, which gives the access to stem cell treatment when it is needed in the family. FamiCord operates in Poland, Spain, Turkey, Hungary, Romania, Italy, and Latvia. In most of these markets the Group is the market leader. Company services are also available in Sweden, United Kingdom, Ukraine and Serbia. Additionally PBKM invests in manufacturing and development of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) which are one of the most promising area of new therapies in medicine. Since 2016 PBKM is listed on Warsaw Stock Exchange. SOURCE PlumCare Related Links http://www.plumcarehealth.com SAN FRANCISCO, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The global point of use water treatment systems market is estimated to be valued at USD w34.1 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing water pollution coupled with growing awareness towards healthy lifestyle are factors propelling the market growth. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160524/371361LOGO ) Increasing adoption of water purifier systems is predicted to drive the global point of use water treatment systems market over the forecast period. Favorable government laws to ensure the supply of clean and potable drinking water are further expected to augment business growth in the coming years. The increasing demand for clean water coupled with growing investments to boost the efficiency is likely to provide a boost to the point of use water treatment systems market growth over the forecast period. Significant reduction in the costs of raw materials and components along with favorable government initiatives is likely to encourage growth of the point of use water treatment systems market by 2025. Governments across the globe are encouraging wider adoption of water treatment systems, to avoid an epidemic of water borne diseases. In terms of technology, the reverse osmosis systems held over 43% of the global point of use water treatment systems market share in 2016. Established technology coupled with economical costs of units in comparison to other technologies is predicted to have a positive impact the growth of point of use water treatment systems market by 2025. Filtration methods technology segment in point of use water treatment systems market is predicted to be valued at USD 7.5 billion by 2025. Higher efficiency, enhanced capacity, and affordable pricing are projected to boost market growth during the forecast period. Tabletop pitchers segment of the water treatment systems market was valued at USD 6.9 billion in 2016 and is likely to be valued at USD 14.6 billion by 2025. Tabletop pitchers are widely adopted owing to the convenient use coupled with affordable price and longer shelf life of the product. In the devices segment, faucet mounted filters are the second largest with 80.7 million units sold in 2016. This segment has large scale penetration in Indian and African countries mainly due to its affordable pricing and low replacement costs. Browse full research report with TOC on "Point of Use Water Treatment Systems Market Analysis, By Technology (RO, Distillation, Disinfection, Filtration), By Device (Pitchers, Faucet Filters, Countertop), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2014 - 2025" at: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/point-of-use-water-treatment-systems-market Further Key Findings From the Report Suggest: The U.S. point of use water treatment systems market, in terms of value, is predicted to grow at a CAGR of over 3.4% in the coming years. Favorable government regulations, coupled with financial benefits, are predicted to boost business growth over the forecast period. In 2016, the UK point of use water treatment systems market, in terms of volume, contributed over 31.9 million units and is predicted to reach over 102.9 million units by 2025. Under the sink units are more prevalent in the UK, given the advanced aesthetic sense prevalent among the customers in the country. India point of use water treatment systems market is likely to be valued at USD 1.9 billion by 2025. As of 2017, India is one of the largest market owing to be the second most populated country in the world. Browse related reports by Grand View Research: Radiation Cured Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/radiation-cured-market Chloroprene Rubber Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/chloroprene-rubber-market Hydrogen Generation Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/hydrogen-generation-market Coating Resins Market - http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/coating-resins-market Grand View Research has segmented the global point of use water treatment systems market on the basis of technology, device, application and region: Technology Outlook (Volume, Million Units; Revenue, USD Billion; 2014 - 2025) Reverse Osmosis systems Distillation systems Disinfection methods Filtration methods Application Type Outlook (Volume, Million Units; Revenue, USD Billion; 2014 - 2025) Residential Non-residential Device Type Outlook (Volume, Million Units; Revenue, USD Billion; 2014 - 2025) Tabletop pitchers Faucet mounted filters Counter-top filters Under-the-sink filters Regional Outlook (Volume, Million Units; Revenue, USD Billion; 2014 - 2025) North America U.S. Canada Europe Germany Russia UK Spain Italy Asia Pacific China Japan South Korea Australia India Central & South America Brazil Middle East and Africa UAE Saudi Arabia Read Our Blog By Grand View Research: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/blogs/bulk-chemicals About Grand View Research Grand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc Phone: +1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.grandviewresearch.com SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc. SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Postmates, the only on-demand platform that can deliver anything from anywhere, announced today its launch in Tucson, the second market in Arizona. Also available in Phoenix, on the Postmates app, customers can order from any restaurant or merchant in Tucson and have it brought to their door in minutes. From trending local eateries, to a run for your favorite ice cream, Postmates helps people in more than 250 cities get whatever they need, whenever they need it. Starting today, Tucson residents can download the Postmates app and get the best of the city -- delivered to them, on-demand. From local favorites such as Fiamme Pizza, Highland Market and Cheddar's Kitchen, to staples like Starbucks and 7-Eleven. To celebrate the expansion, new Postmates customers in Tuscon can enjoy $100 in free delivery credit through October 31. "Unlike other on-demand services, Postmates sees the cities we operate in as our warehouses. We bring the best of your city to your door -- by making every merchant and restaurant accessible through the Postmates app," said Dan Mosher, SVP, Merchant Lead at Postmates. "We're particularly excited about expanding to Tucson, which was named Arizona's "Top Foodie" City in 2017. We're excited to bring the best of the city to even more people." Consumers are increasingly turning to on-demand delivery. According to the market research firm, NPD Group, there are 1.7 billion food deliveries annually and others have estimated that the overall sector is growing by 40 percent year-over-year. "As more and more people move toward ordering what they need on-demand, Postmates has also become a force for local economic development. Our Partner merchants regularly see as much as a four-fold increase in revenue after joining the Postmates platform," added Mosher. To order, visit Postmates.com or download Postmates on iOS or Android. Delivery fees range between $3.99 for Partner merchants and $5.99 for non-partner merchants. Postmates also offers a subscription service, Postmates Unlimited, which is free delivery from all merchants, when you spend $20 or more, for $9.99 per month. Postmates continues to grow its fleet, market reach and revenues. The Company has the largest on-demand delivery fleet in the U.S. of more than 100,000 Postmates, who operate in more than 250 cities and provide access to over 250,000 merchants. The business now completes 2.5 million deliveries a month and is on track to sell $1 Billion in goods on the platform in 2017. As the originators of on-demand 'anything,' Postmates gives customers access to merchants that were previously inaccessible online. Postmates has helped create an alternative infrastructure for local businesses to better compete against retail goliaths. ABOUT POSTMATES Postmates helps people unlock the best of their cities and their lives, with an insanely reliable on-demand "everything" network. Launched in 2011, Postmates is the first and leading company in the on-demand space helping customers in over 250 cities get whatever they need, whenever they need it. Postmates has the largest on-demand fleet in the U.S. with 100,000 Postmates and the biggest network of merchants. While some companies try to build a warehouse outside of a city and funnel goods into it, Postmates believes that our cities, our towns and our communities are our warehouses. Postmates is helping transform the way food and merchandise move around cities by connecting the city to customers, while helping local brick and mortar businesses better compete against retail goliaths. Headquartered in San Francisco, with 550 employees, Postmates is building a movement. Have chips but no guac? Postmate it. Your date night? Postmate it. Game day? Postmate it. Happy hour, at any hour? Postmate it. Run out of caffeine? Postmate it. Learn more: www.postmates.com. SOURCE Postmates Related Links http://www.postmates.com CLEVELAND, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Predictive Service, a global leader in providing maintenance, reliability consulting and predictive maintenance solutions, has acquired Mid Atlantic Infrared Services, Inc., a provider of diagnostic predictive testing, including infrared, vibration and ultrasonic diagnostic services since 1981. The Bethesda, Maryland-based company offers state of the art instrumentation, experienced personnel and a comprehensive, highly accurate approach to testing. "We believe that Mid Atlantic Infrared Services provides the most detailed data acquisition, analysis and diagnosis services in the region," said Donald Frankel, CEO of Predictive Service. "Their approach to predictive testing and commitment to high quality results aligns very well with Predictive Service's standards and processes," said Frankel. Mid Atlantic's predictive testing services will complement Predictive Service's integrated approach to defining, developing, and improving maintenance and reliability programs. In addition to reliability offerings, Mid Atlantic customers can now access Predictive Service's PdM management software, analytics and consulting services. "I am looking forward to working with the Predictive Service management team to ensure a smooth transition. We are extremely happy to offer our current customers access to Predictive Service's innovative technologies and cutting-edge approach to facility optimization," said Steve Seeber, President of Mid Atlantic Infrared Services, Inc. "In addition to their existing programs, Predictive Service will be able to create enterprise-wide reliability, sustainability and electrical safety programs to keep their facilities running at their best." About Predictive Service Predictive Service offers an unparalleled approach to Enterprise Asset Management, achieving improved utilization, enhanced performance and reliability while reducing capital and operating costs. Specializing in infrared, vibration monitoring and overall managed maintenance programs, including consulting services focused on reliability, predictive maintenance, work management, asset and technology optimization. As an innovative, technology leader for maintenance and reliability programs, we are changing the standard for service companies. Our offerings start at the core, your CMMS and ERP systems to effect sustainable change to your processes and workflows. Adding our award winning PdM management software, ViewPoint with our newly developed mobile platform, ViewPoint On-Demand, brings leading-edge solutions to the marketplace. Headquartered in Cleveland Ohio, we offer services globally with offices in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Predictive Service is one of America's Fastest Growing Companies as rated by Inc. 5000. For more information, please visit www.predictiveservice.com Contact: Heidi Smith, Director of Marketing +330.618.8891 SOURCE Predictive Service Related Links http://www.predictiveservice.com NEW YORK, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Below are experts from the ProfNet network who are available to discuss timely issues in your coverage area. You can also submit a query to the hundreds of thousands of experts in our network it's easy and free! Just fill out the query form to get started: http://prn.to/queryform EXPERT ALERTS Harvey Weinstein: The Real Reasons People Don't Report Workplace Sexual Harassment Courts Should Protect Media from Trump Threats Independent Catalonia Would Face Steep Economic Climb United Nations Celebrates 'Africa Week' Oct. 16-20 MEDIA JOBS Editor, Digital Studio ITP Business ( Dubai ) ) Reporter Private Debt Investor (NY) Editor, Weekend Business & Finance Section The Wall Street Journal (NY) OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES Top 10 Hispanic News Sites How to Get Started as a Ghost Writer 5 Questions with Miami Herald: Reporting on Irma When You're in the Path of the Storm ------------------------------------------------------------------- EXPERT ALERTS: Harvey Weinstein: The Real Reasons People Don't Report Workplace Sexual Harassment Mike Domitrz Founder The Date Safe Project Domitrz is available to speak on the Harvey Weinstein cases, specifically the audiotape released where Weinstein does not respect the woman's answer as she continually says 'no.' Says Domitrz: "It should have only been one 'no' and that is it. A 'no' is never rude and should be accepted and honored the first time it is said." Domitrz can also discuss the real reasons people don't report workplace sexual harassment; how workplace sexual harassment is not just a female or male problem; why Weinstein is a symptom of a larger, cultural problem; and how we can change and make creating a culture of consent and respect the new norm. He speaks globally on sexual assault to more than 100,000 people each year, including at universities and the U.S. military. He is also the author of "Can I Kiss You?" ProfNet Profile: http://www.profnetconnect.com/michael_j._mike_domitrz Website: https://www.datesafeproject.org Contact: Lisa Baker-King, [email protected] Courts Should Protect Media from Trump Threats Paul C. Watler First Amendment Lawyer Jackson Walker LLP in Dallas President Donald Trump's threats against NBC for news coverage he didn't like are not unprecedented, says Watler: "There is a long history of American presidents criticizing the coverage they receive in the press, with an equally long history of American journalists doing their jobs despite presidential disfavor. A few presidents, most notoriously Richard Nixon, actually attempted to turn their dislike of the media into official retaliation by government agencies or regulators. But those vengeful efforts at official harassment were abject failures. The First Amendment guarantee of freedom of the press stands as a fundamental bar to the type of vindictive action that the current president seems to contemplate or encourage. As long as we have federal judges who are true to their oaths to uphold the Constitution, media organizations should be protected from efforts to intimidate or subvert independent news reporting." Contact: Kit Frieden, [email protected] Independent Catalonia Would Face Steep Economic Climb Kislaya Prasad Professor of Logistics, Business and Public Policy University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business "Independence comes with losing EU membership, meaning that trade is simple and, importantly, free. An independent Catalonia would have to apply for EU membership, and there is no grandfathering in -- membership is granted only by unanimous vote of the existing EU countries. If the parting with Spain is very, very bitter, then Spain itself would be able to hold up its membership. That would not be good for the Catalonian economy. Trade relations with Europe is essential, but so, too, is entry to the EU. And that will require Catalonia to build all new institutions of government from the ground up and maintain a healthy balance sheet, even despite the hefty Spanish debt it's likely to inherit. It will be messy. It would be messy in the best of circumstances." Prasad also directs UMD's Center for International Business Education and Research and is a Brookings Institution guest scholar. Bio: https://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/directory/kislaya-prasad PR Contact: Greg Muraski, [email protected] United Nations Celebrates 'Africa Week' Oct. 16-20 Efosa Ojomo Research Fellow Clayton Christensen Institute "The theme of this year's UN 'Africa Week' conference (https://tinyurl.com/ybsxrhza) is encouraging, since 'prosperity' is one of the areas of focus. However, upon reading the details of what the week is intended to accomplish, unfortunately, there is no mention of the word 'innovation.' In addition, many of the recommendations aim to integrate Africa's 54 countries. If the 'Africa Week' conference focused on answering the simple question, "How can we get every working-age African employed?" the event would likely solve not just Africa's rising population and employment problems, but also its integration issues. Africa, as a region, will integrate only when it makes sense economically and politically. Until then, while it might not be impossible, it will be very difficult to organically advance the integration agenda." A native of Nigeria, Ojomo moved to the U.S. to attend college. He earned a BS in Engineering from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. Ojomo has spoken widely on the topic of global poverty and prosperity (see his TEDx talk at https://youtu.be/KjlRaaMduzo). He has also been interviewed broadly on the topic (see recent coverage in the Wall Street Journal at https://tinyurl.com/ycu6pfk3). He is based in Boston. Website: https://www.christenseninstitute.org Contact: Brian Hyland, [email protected] **************** MEDIA JOBS: Following are links to job listings for staff and freelance writers, editors and producers. You can view these and more job listings on our Job Board: https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/community/jobs/ Editor, Digital Studio ITP Business ( Dubai ) ) Reporter Private Debt Investor (NY) Editor, Weekend Business & Finance Section The Wall Street Journal (NY) ***************** OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES: Following are links to other news and resources we think you might find useful. If you have an item you think other reporters would be interested in and would like us to include in a future alert, please drop us a line at [email protected] Hispanic Heritage Month is about to wrap. These 10 Hispanic news sites will help you stay informed. While we're celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month, we're highlighting sites that do a fine job keeping this growing audience informed: http://prn.to/hispanicnewssites So you want to be a ghost writer. Here's what you need to know. It's not so spooky, but like any type of freelance writing, it comes with its own challenges: http://prn.to/ghostwriter 5 Questions with Miami Herald: Reporting on Irma When You're in the Path of the Storm. While the wind and rain of Irma ravaged the state of Florida , members of the media stayed put to cover the full story to get the most up-to-date information to its readers. Here's what Miami Herald Managing Editor Rick Hirsch had to say: http://prn.to/2xZp42S **************** PROFNET is an exclusive service of PR Newswire. To contact ProfNet: [email protected] or 800-776-3638, ext. 1 SOURCE ProfNet Related Links http://www.profnet.com PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Just months after the introduction of Cloud 10 Customized Hair Care for the Millennial consumer, QVC founder and ProfilePro Co-CEO Joe Segel announces the launch of HairRx Advanced Hair Care, dedicated to fulfilling the hair care customization needs and shopping preferences of women ages 30 and up. HairRx Advanced Hair Care provides a dramatically different and streamlined way to help women identify the shampoo and conditioner formulas that are ideally matched to their specific needs, including a choice of five fabulous scents and two lather preferences in 10-ounce and 2-ounce sizes. HairRx also offers a broad assortment of styling and finishing formulas. Take the online minute survey at HairRx.com. "Women in their thirties, forties and beyond seek customized beauty solutions," says Segel. "They have different hair care challenges and goals than their Millennial counterparts. HairRx provides the ultimate customization experience that instantly matches each hair profile to the ideal shampoo and conditioner formulas, including scent and lather preferences." "While research shows that customization in the beauty sector is desired by all generations, women in their thirties have different shopping habits than Millennials," explains Ellen Langas, ProfilePro Co-CEO. "With the addition of HairRx Advanced Hair Care, we are now offering customized hair care solutions for all ages and needs." HairRx gives customers the ability to customize their shampoos and conditioners by identifying their key hair care goals, lather preference and scent selection, including citrus, coconut, jasmine, lavender and vanilla. HairRx is scheduled to launch on QVC.com in late 2017. Both HairRx and Cloud 10 Hair Care were developed by ProfilePro LLC, a multichannel brand development company. How it works: HairRx customers answer a short series of questions online that are focused on their unique hair care goals, scent and lather preferences. Individual profiles are instantly matched to shampoos and conditioners drawn from one of the industry's most comprehensive inventories of 165 formulas. HairRx also offers a broad assortment of styling and finishing formulas. HairRx customers may also choose from eight different HairRx Home Hair SalonTM sets, which offer curated collections of shampoos, conditioners and styling formulas in attractive organizers. About ProfilePro LLC Founded in 2014, ProfilePro LLC is a pioneer in customized and personalized hair care. The ProfilePro family of brands includes Cloud 10 Customized Hair Care, HairRx Advanced Hair Care, and ProfilePro Home Hair Salon sets. Visit: www.hairrx.com and www.cloud10hair.com About Joe Segel: Joe Segel, Co-CEO of ProfilePro, is one of the nation's earliest successful "serial entrepreneurs." He has created more than 20 businesses most notably The Franklin Mint and QVC. As co-founder and an investor in ProfilePro, Segel is driving forward the concept of customized hair care at retail. QVC, Inc., QVC, the Q and Q Ribbon Logo are registered service marks of ER Marks, Inc. and QVC, Inc. Contact: NouSoma Communications, Inc., 610-658-5889 Kristen Stewart, [email protected], cell 215-508-3004 Jennifer Thomas, [email protected], office 239-288-7483 ProfilePro, [email protected] SOURCE ProfilePro, LLC WALTHAM, Mass., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) will issue its third quarter 2017 earnings news release at 7 a.m. EDT Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017. The release will be posted on Raytheon's website. The third quarter 2017 earnings results conference call will be at 9 a.m. EDT Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017. The call will be audiocast on the Internet at www.raytheon.com/ir. Charts to be referenced during the call will be available on the website for printing prior to the call. Participants are urged to check the website ahead of time to ensure their computers are configured for the audio stream. Instructions for obtaining the required downloadable software are posted to the site. About Raytheon Raytheon Company, with 2016 sales of $24 billion and 63,000 employees, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, civil government and cybersecurity solutions. With a history of innovation spanning 95 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration, C5I products and services, sensing, effects, and mission support for customers in more than 80 countries. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts. Follow us on Twitter. Investor Relations Contact Todd Ernst +1.781.522.5141 Media Contact Corinne Kovalsky +1.781.522.5899 SOURCE Raytheon Company Related Links http://www.raytheon.com In January, Kevin Vertrees joined RealFoundations as Lead Managing Consultant, bringing 17 years of real estate technology experience by way of enterprise IT design, integration and ecological adaptation, and improving manageability, effectiveness and ongoing efficiencies. Kevin's technical expertise spans all major ERPs including Yardi, MRI, JDE, Timberline and SAP. Prior to joining RF, Kevin served as the VP of Information Technology at Forest City Ratner Companies in Cleveland, Ohio. Senior Managing Consultant Barry Faulkner joined RealFoundations in May, increasing the firm's breadth of experience by 25+ years. Throughout his career, Barry's work has centered on business strategy development and implementation, merger integration, shared services implementation, operational improvement, new product development, and change management. He has extensive operational and investment experience with office, multifamily, industrial, and retail assets as well as real estate fund operations. He also served as Chairman of Portfolio Management Committee at NCREIF from 2011 to 2015. Prior to joining RealFoundations Barry was a Senior Vice President at Bentall Kennedy where he led efforts in strategic plan implementation, enhancing portfolio management, leading fund analytics & reporting and executing new product initiatives. Bob Kroner joined the firm in July as a Senior Management Consultant, bringing extensive knowledge in the commercial real estate industry, with 20 years' experience working in the owner/operator REIT sector. Bob brings industry leading expertise to the firm in areas including finance and accounting, operations, technology and digital marketing strategies, public company and REIT compliance, mergers & acquisitions and sourcing and procurement. Prior to joining RealFoundations, Bob served as a Senior Manager with Deloitte Consulting, LLP where he successfully created client value and market differentiators through strategic financial, operational and technical initiatives. "The real-world experience that Bob, Barry and Kevin bring to RF is tremendous," says David W. Stanford, Founder and Enterprise Managing Consultant. "With their collective knowledge and extensive skillset in operational strategy, business process design, and technology optimization, we have expanded our capabilities as a firm and look forward to their continued contributions." About RealFoundations RealFoundations is a professional services firm focused on the real estate industry. With offices on four continents, 400+ client-serving professionals and off-shore delivery capabilities in China and India, RealFoundations provides Management Consulting, Managed Services and Energy Solutions to developers, owners/operators, service providers, institutional investors and corporate occupiers. From the building itself to the way it is used, operated and financed, no firm understands the inner workings of the entire real estate ecosystem as well as RealFoundations. We Make Real Estate Run Better. For more information about careers at RealFoundations, visit our website at www.realfoundations.net/careers or contact Tony Dodder, Director of People Services | (646) 825 7962 | [email protected] SOURCE RealFoundations Related Links http://www.realfoundations.net Integrating Redtea Mobile's embedded SIM (eSIM) software component into Qualcomm Technologies' iUICC concept featuring in Snapdragon Mobile Platforms, the combination is designed to address the growing demands for a higher level of connectivity on mobile devices -- to address the security platforms in the device and be the trusted element for SIM. As one of the eSIM implementations, the iUICC module has no separate off-chip component as the SoC solution combines the secure processor, the baseband processor and possibly other processors into one discrete hardware component. This solution can satisfy prevailing and future security requirements. In particular, Redtea Mobile will deploy their eSIM terminal solution (e.g. LPA) and Subscription Manager-Data Preparation+ (SM-DP+) cloud service on top of Qualcomm Technologies' iUICC. This eSIM offering for consumer electronics is compliant with GSMA eSIM standards to support fast, seamless deployment and connectivity for OEMs and mobile network operators (MNOs). "An important aspect of our 5G vision is the adoption of leading new standards and innovations around the trusted SIM card," said Sy Choudhury, senior director of product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Qualcomm Technologies and Redtea Mobile have worked together to demonstrate how the GSMA's Remote SIM Provisioning specification for embedded SIM can run on a Snapdragon Mobile Platform while effectively integrating with existing mobile operator infrastructures." "We're excited to showcase our eSIM Technology running on the Snapdragon Mobile Platform to the world's most innovative device manufacturers and mobile operators at Qualcomm Technologies' annual 4G/5G Summit in Hong Kong," said Dr. Hui Jin, CEO and Co-founder of Redtea Mobile. "As an established brand that has shipped its eSIM capability and data/roaming service to over 100 million devices by partnering with 20+ MNOs/MVNOs worldwide and a majority of smartphone manufacturers including OPPO, vivo, Samsung (China), Xiaomi, Lenovo, ZTE, Meizu, LeEco, and Smartisans, Redtea's proven technology brings a brand new level of features and convenience to consumers and the roaming industry as a whole. The demonstration with Qualcomm Technologies is a first of its kind to show integrated eSIM capabilities on a Qualcomm Technologies platform and may offer a generational leap in data connectivity." "We are always pursuing a more complete and integrated solution for device manufacturers. By working together, Redtea Mobile and Qualcomm Technologies are demonstrating how a leading and innovative eSIM and SoC can be integrated at the platform level, while also making the solution easier to integrate for device manufacturers, to reduce physical space requirements and be more cost effective," said Ming Jiang, Redtea Mobile's CTO and Co-founder. About Redtea Mobile Redtea Mobile is an eSIM service provider that delivers turn-key solutions including global cellular data coverage, RSP (Remote SIM Provisioning) platform, eSIM terminal technology and eSIM based applications. Redtea Mobile has developed an RSP platform which is fully compliant with GSMA eSIM standards and strives to promote the wide deployment and secure implementation of eSIM technology by closely collaborating with device OEMs, chipset and module manufacturers, and mobile operators. Redtea Mobile was named one of the "China's 50 Most Innovative Companies of 2016" by Fast Company Magazine. Redtea Mobile jointly hosted WAS #5 with GSMA. For the full story of Redtea Mobile, please visit www.redteamobile.com. Media Contact: Vivi Mou VP of Brand Management, Redtea Mobile [email protected] Qualcomm and Snapdragon are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. SOURCE Redtea Mobile Related Links http://www.redteamobile.com Harry TV viewers will get to know a few of the women featured in the series on a more personal level through their interviews. Duke Wimberly, Brittany Miller and Sarah Brown discuss everything from the history of the sport to how these dangerous rides affect their personal lives. The girls even bring a special surprise for Connick Jr. himself, which will be revealed during the episode. In addition to the bursts of adrenaline throughout each episode's wild rides and an education of the complexities in lady's ranch bronc riding history, this series showcases six strong, independent, tenacious women who have no fear of mounting a bucking horse and competing against the boys. Ranging from a 17-year-old college student to a young mother, these women prove through their personal stories and their horsemanship that they have earned the title of "Cowgirl." Cowgirls will be featured on Harry TV on October 18th, 2017. Harry TV is a syndicated program; you can find out where to watch Harry TV near you at www.harrytv.com/watch/ About Ride Television Network, Inc . Ride Television Network, Inc. is a privately held corporation based in Fort Worth, Texas. The company was formed in 2011 for the purpose of launching a 24-hour, high definition, television network. RIDE TV launched on October 1, 2014 in the United States and is now available internationally. The network features high-quality television programming, showcasing both English and Western equestrian disciplines and lifestyles and includes live events, reality shows, talk shows, children's programming, documentaries and more. For more information about RIDE TV, please visit www.ridetv.com. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Amanda Morris Director of Marketing and Public Relations [email protected] SOURCE Ride Television Network, Inc. Related Links https://www.ridetv.com/ SIMI VALLEY, Calif., Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and GE announced today the launch of the 2018 GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program. The annual program selects up to 20 recipients to receive a $10,000 scholarship renewable for an additional three years up to $40,000 total per recipient. "President Reagan believed so strongly in educating our nation's youth and igniting their leadership journey," said John Heubusch, executive director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. "It is our honor and privilege to partner with GE in fostering and inspiring the young leaders of tomorrow through what has become one of the most prestigious scholarship awards available to high school students today." "GE and the Reagan Foundation created this scholarship program to honor the legacy of our nation's 40th President," said Alex Dimitrief, senior vice president and general counsel of GE. "Having served under President Reagan as a White House Fellow, I couldn't be more proud that GE is partnering with the Reagan Foundation to create a whole new generation of leaders. This program recognizes students who have seized the opportunities afforded by high school to lead, serve and embark on a life of purpose and significance for themselves, their families and their communities." Qualified applicants will be evaluated on leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship: Leadership - Scholars pursue leadership roles that have a positive impact in communities and showcase the value of lifelong learning. - Scholars pursue leadership roles that have a positive impact in communities and showcase the value of lifelong learning. Drive - Firm believers "that our best days are ahead," scholars have the conviction, ambition, discipline and courage to make their dreams reality. - Firm believers "that our best days are ahead," scholars have the conviction, ambition, discipline and courage to make their dreams reality. Integrity - Rooted in values and ethics, scholars possess the unique combination of integrity, dependability and humility that defined President Reagan's leadership. - Rooted in values and ethics, scholars possess the unique combination of integrity, dependability and humility that defined President Reagan's leadership. Citizenship- Scholars are driven by a sense of civic commitment and actively engage in their communities to affect positive change. The GE Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program launched in 2011 to provide four-year college scholarships to deserving students who embody the vision and values personified by President Reagan. Scholarships will be applied to student tuition and on-campus room and board while the recipient is pursuing a bachelor's degree at an accredited U.S. college or university. Nearly 140 student leaders who are attending or have attended 79 different colleges in the United States have received this award. From 1954 through 1962, Ronald Reagan worked for GE as host of a weekly television series, General Electric Theater, and traveled as a GE spokesman to 139 GE plants meeting more than 250,000 employees. As part of each episode, Reagan highlighted the work of these employees by promoting GE products like automatic dishwashers and electric can openers, products that were transforming American homes with the era's emerging technologies. Reagan punctuated each spot with GE's tag line at the time: "Progress is Our Most Important Product." Today, GE employs more than 130,000 American workers. Consistently lauded by outside sources such as BusinessWeek and FORTUNE magazines for principles considered core to President Reagan himself, GE has been ranked among the world's best companies for leaders, as one of Fast Company's most innovative, and as one of GI Jobs magazine's top military friendly employers while consistently scoring well as one of the best places to launch a career. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the legacy of Ronald Reagan and his timeless principles of individual liberty, economic opportunity, global democracy, and national pride. The Foundation also supports a scholarship program for graduates of Ventura County, Calif., high schools. More information about both programs is available at www.reaganfoundation.org/scholarships. Qualified candidates may apply online between October 16, 2017 and January 4, 2018. To be considered for this award, candidates must complete the secure online application, in its entirety, prior to the deadline. Semifinalists must be nominated by a community leader, such as a high school principal, elected official or nonprofit executive. In addition to being recognized at an awards ceremony in summer 2018, recipients remain engaged with the Foundation during and after college, and are supported with programming and other resources. For more information on application requirements and a link to the application please visit: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/gereaganscholarships About The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute: The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to the promotion of the legacy of Ronald Reagan and his timeless principles of individual liberty, economic opportunity, global democracy, and national pride. It sustains the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, the Ronald Reagan Institute, the Reagan Center for Public Affairs, the Walter and Leonore Annenberg Presidential Learning Center, The Air Force One Pavilion and the award-winning Air Force One Discovery Center. Located in Simi Valley, California, the Library houses over 55 million pages of Gubernatorial, Presidential and personal papers and over 60,000 gifts and artifacts chronicling the lives of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. It now also serves as the final resting place of America's 40th President and his first lady. www.reaganfoundation.org About GE: GE (NYSE: GE) is the world's Digital Industrial Company, transforming industry with software-defined machines and solutions that are connected, responsive and predictive. GE is organized around a global exchange of knowledge, the "GE Store," through which each business shares and accesses the same technology, markets, structure and intellect. Each invention further fuels innovation and application across our industrial sectors. With people, services, technology and scale, GE delivers better outcomes for customers by speaking the language of industry. www.ge.com Press Contacts Melissa Giller Ronald Reagan Foundation [email protected] 805-522-2977 Izabela Teixeira GE [email protected] 646-682-5644 SOURCE The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute Related Links http://www.reaganfoundation.org - Upgrade the Robotics from Mobile Phone Era into Smartphone Era SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- SanKoBot, a tech startup based in Shanghai and Shenzhen, China with R&D divisions in Shenzhen, Singapore, Silicon Valley and Israel, has released its ground-breaking robotics vision system embedded in the Smart Cleaning Robot at the Hong Kong Consumer Electronics Trade Fair, making it the first technology company in the world to deliver a Visual Simultaneous Location and Mapping ("VSLAM") system in large scale production for the household robotics market. This enables home robotics providers around the world to upgrade their robotic products into intelligent capability utilizing SanKoBot's VSLAM system. "SanKoBot's products are a radical step forward for the home robotics industry in the same way that visual sensing technology is revolutionizing the auto industry," says Robert Li, Founder and CEO of SanKoBot. "But home robotics applications are just a starting point for SanKoBot," adds Robert Li. "In the next phase of development, we plan to launch upgraded vision system products to break the mold of the Home AI industry. Our company is ambitious to develop innovative and ground-breaking products." The technology inside the SanKoBot VSLAM system achieves remarkable performance and delivers exceptional user experience with fast calculation speed, exceptional accuracy and robust running. As the key parameter data demonstrates, it is able to sense its location with an accuracy of 1 cm, running 20 fps with vision alone and running 100 fps with the fusion of other sensors. After it creates a map, the robot can quickly locate itself, within 1 second, even when it is lifted up or placed at a random spot. SanKoBot is the first company to provide this technology to home robotics providers at a low cost to enable a wide range of adaptation across the market. Unlike other feature-based VSLAM techniques, SanKoBot's VSLAM solution can handle a wide range of indoor environments, including those with low textures, very low or very strong light, as well as fast changing light conditions. "SanKoBot is the first technology company in the market to achieve commercial large scale production of this technology and launch it into the market, which is really good news for us," says Yan Shengfeng, a customer. "After various tests, I found this vision product robust and working perfectly in difficult conditions at the 3G Hall of Hong Kong Consumer Electronics Trade Fair." With a variety of sensors, SanKoBot's robotics vision system integrates multiple data streams to build its intelligence about the surroundings in a highly robust fashion. Utilizing state-of-the-art computer vision and artificial intelligence technologies, the robot continuously creates 3D visual landmarks, recognizes key objects, entrances, exits and boundaries of each room, and creates a complete 3D map of the indoor environment as it navigates through a room. As SanKoBot's angel investors, Leo Wang, founder of PreAngel Fund, and Jiaxi Lin, founder of Guojin Capital, put it succinctly: "SanKoBot is creating innovative solutions by bringing together VSLAM technology at large scale production for the market. In addition, their work to create the next-generation consumer robotics Personal Assistant will be a major breakthrough for comprehensively managing in home data and technology." Aviad Maizels, Founder and President of PrimeSense, the leader in Natural Interaction and 3D sensing, which was bought by Apple Inc. in 2013, now sits on the advisory board of SanKoBot together with David (Dadi) Perlmutter, former Intel CPO. SanKoBot brings future technology into the home, creating a Robotic Personal Assistant (RPA) that stays together with people and pets in the home. The RPA assists with all aspects of the Smart Home, interacting intuitively with humans and the physical world around it. SanKoBot's products integrate artificial intelligence, software and hardware to provide a complete Smart Home solution targeted to the China, US and global markets. SanKoBot's industry leading technology is differentiated from industry incumbents and upstarts through leveraging its R&D divisions in innovation hotspots across the world: China's innovation hubs, Silicon Valley, Israel's Silicon Wadi and Singapore. SOURCE SanKoBot BOSTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Santander Bank, N.A. (the "Bank"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Santander Holdings USA, Inc. ("SHUSA"), today announced the pricing of the previously announced cash tender offer (the "Offer") for any and all of its outstanding 8.750% Subordinated Notes Due 2018 (the "Notes") listed in the table below. Security CUSIP Outstanding Principal Amount Reference U.S. Treasury Security Reference U.S. Treasury Security Yield Bloomberg Reference Page(1) Fixed Spread Purchase Price(2) 8.750% Subordinated Notes Due 2018 84603MXU5 $500,000,000 1.000% UST due May 31, 2018 1.312% FIT3 +25 bps $1,043.91 (1) The page on Bloomberg from which Barclays Capital Inc. quoted the bid-side prices of the Reference U.S. Treasury Security specified in the table above. (2) Per $1,000 principal amount of Notes, plus accrued and unpaid distributions from the last payment date to, but not including, the Payment Date (as defined below) for the Notes purchased pursuant to the Offer. Purchase Price calculated on the basis of pricing for the Reference U.S. Treasury Security as of 11:00 a.m., New York City time, on October 17, 2017 and a Payment Date on October 18, 2017. The Offer is being made pursuant to an Offer to Purchase and a Notice of Guaranteed Delivery, each dated October 11, 2017, which contains detailed information concerning the terms of the Offer. The "Purchase Price" listed in the table above for each $1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer was determined in the manner described in the Offer to Purchase by reference to a fixed spread specified for the Notes (the "Fixed Spread") specified in the table above plus the yield based on the bid-side price of the Reference U.S. Treasury Security specified in the table above at 11:00 a.m., New York City time, on October 17, 2017. Payment for any Notes that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn and accepted for purchase will be made promptly following the Expiration Time (such date, the "Payment Date"). We expect the Payment Date to occur on October 18, 2017, with respect to Notes accepted for purchase on or about the Expiration Time. We expect the payment for Notes delivered under the guaranteed delivery procedures to occur on October 20, 2017. Notes purchased pursuant to the Offer will be cancelled. Barclays Capital Inc. is acting as dealer manager for the Offer, and D.F. King & Co., Inc. is serving as the tender agent and information agent. Requests for documents may be directed to D.F. King & Co., Inc. by telephone at +1 212-269-5550 (banks and brokers) or +1 800-814-2879. Questions regarding the Offer may be directed to Barclays Capital Inc. at +1 800 438-3242 or collect at +1 212-528-7581. Copies of the Offer to Purchase and related Notice of Guaranteed Delivery are available at the following web address: www.dfking.com/santander. Neither the Offer to Purchase or the Notice of Guaranteed Delivery nor any related documents have been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, nor have any such documents been filed with or reviewed by any federal or state securities commission or regulatory authority of any country. No authority has passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of the Offer to Purchase or the Notice of Guaranteed Delivery or any related documents, and it is unlawful and may be a criminal offense to make any representation to the contrary. This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to purchase. The Offer is being made solely by the Bank pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and the Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. The Offer is not being made to, nor will the Bank accept tenders of Notes from, holders in any jurisdiction in which the Offer or the acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdiction. Santander Bank, N.A. is one of the country's largest retail and commercial banks with more than $83 billion in assets. With its corporate offices in Boston, the Bank's 9,500 employees, more than 650 branches, 2,100 ATMs and 2.1 million customers are principally located in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. The Bank is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Madrid-based Banco Santander, S.A. (NYSE: SAN) - one of the most respected banking groups in the world with more than 125 million customers in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. It is managed by Santander Holdings USA, Inc., Banco Santander's intermediate holding company in the U.S. For more information on Santander Bank, please visit www.santanderbank.com. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This communication contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements about our expectations, beliefs, plans, or future events are not historical facts and may be forward-looking. Such statements include, but are not limited to, the Bank's statements regarding the Offer. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as "anticipates," "believes," "can," "could," "may," "predicts," "potential," "should," "will," "looking forward," "would," "hopes," "assumes," "estimates," "plans," "projects," "continuing," "ongoing," "expects," "intends," and similar words or phrases. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date on which the statements are made, these statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are subject to change based on various important factors and assumptions, some of which are beyond our control. For additional discussion of these risks, refer to the section entitled "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Annual Report on Form 10-K SHUSA files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ from those reflected in forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties described in SHUSA's filings with the SEC. New risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Bank to predict all risks and uncertainties that could have an impact on the forward-looking statements contained in communication. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking information included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by the Bank or any other person that the Bank's expectations, objectives or plans will be achieved in the timeframe anticipated or at all. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the Bank's forward-looking statements, and the Bank undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Any forward-looking statements only speak as of the date of this document, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking information or statements, whether written or oral, to reflect any change, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. Disclaimer This announcement must be read in conjunction with the Offer to Purchase and related Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. This announcement and the Offer to Purchase and related Notice of Guaranteed Delivery (including the documents incorporated by reference therein) contain important information which must be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Offer. If any holder of Notes is in any doubt as to the action it should take, it is recommended to seek its own legal, tax, accounting and financial advice, including as to any tax consequences, immediately from its stockbroker, bank manager, attorney, accountant or other independent financial or legal adviser. Any individual or company whose Notes are held on its behalf by a broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company or other nominee or intermediary must contact such entity if it wishes to participate in the Offer. None of the Bank, SHUSA, the dealer managers, the tender and information agent, and any person who controls, or is a director, officer, employee or agent of such persons, or any affiliate of such persons, makes any recommendation as to whether holders of Notes should participate in the Offer. FINANCIAL CONTACTS: Andrew Withers 617.757.3524 [email protected] MEDIA CONTACTS: Ann Davis 617.757.5891 [email protected] Nancy Orlando 617.757.5765 [email protected] SOURCE Santander Bank, N.A. Related Links http://www.santanderbank.com BOSTON, Massachusetts and PORTSMOUTH, New Hampshire, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Yodiwo, an AEP (application enablement platform) and Internet of Things (IoT) services provider that focuses on accelerating the development and deployment of IoT applications for industrial and enterprise environments, and Senet, a leading global provider of cloud-based software and services platforms to enable network connectivity build-out and management for the Internet of Things, today announced a technology partnership. (Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/570574/Yodiwo_Logo.jpg ) The collaboration, based on the integration between the companies' respective platforms, will allow the utilization of Yodiwo's 3D AEP and services to enable the fast, secure and smooth development and deployment of large scale IoT solutions that can easily connect to and run over Senet's Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) infrastructure. "With best-in-class power efficiency, long range and an extremely low per-device cost, LoRaWAN is changing the paradigm of IoT connectivity and enabling deployments at massive scale," said Bruce Chatterley, CEO & President at Senet. "Our partnership with Yodiwo will help to further simplify and speed up commercial IoT projects that leverage LoRa-based LPWAN technology, enabling businesses across industries to revolutionize their operations." Currently, solutions for facility and physical asset management, smart cities, retail and supply chain have been deployed on Yodiwo's platform, while several other IoT products in various verticals are under development. The company is aiming to strengthen its presence and operations in the US by forming scalable partnership models, whereby partners such as system integrators, solutions and service providers can fast-track their IoT strategy and capabilities by utilizing Yodiwo's platforms, tools and services. "By leveraging Senet's carrier grade LPWAN infrastructure and OSS, Yodiwo will be able to serve our end customers with sustainable and scalable IoT solutions" said Alex Maniatopoulos, CEO of Yodiwo. About Yodiwo Yodiwo accelerates the development and deployment of enterprise & industrial level Internet of Things solutions with its IoT Application Enablement Platform. Through its unique codeless workflow creator [cyan], innovative cross platform IoT FOG gateway technology [wisper] and smart cloud engine [alcyone] that orchestrates analytics, services, data and devices, Yodiwo offers a true one stop shop for IoT solution capabilities. For additional information visit: www.yodiwo.com. About Senet Senet is the leader in global Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity used to instrument the physical world and enable businesses to revolutionize their operations. With core values centered around changing the world for the better, Senet is committed to promoting IoT Network and Network Management innovation, and supports an open partner ecosystem to ensure that IoT realizes its full potential of delivering economic, environmental, and social improvements. A contributing member of the LoRa Alliance, Senet is dedicated to supporting the LoRaWAN protocol as the open global standard for secure, carrier-grade IoT Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) connectivity for IoT solutions across all industries. For additional information, visit http://www.senetco.com . Media Contacts: Yodiwo Contact: Dimos Kothris International Business Development Yodiwo AB [email protected] Senet Contact: Matt Farhadi, Account Executive Elevate Communications [email protected] SOURCE Yodiwo SK Innovation's management philosophy of "growing together with the local community" contributed directly to the company's decision to make a donation to the Korean Studies Program. Thanks to SK Innovation's contribution, Rice University will be able to solidify its Korean programs and raise understandings of the Korean language and culture on campus by sponsoring scholarships, diversifying Korean-related courses, and hosting campus-wide cultural activities. On October 16 2017, Dongsoo Choi, president of SK Innovation's Exploration and Production (E&P) Business, and Taewon Kim, head of E&P North America Business Division, made the presentation to Y. Ping Sun, University Representative, and Lora Wildenthal, Interim Dean of Humanities. "We are delighted to act upon SK Group's management philosophy of 'sharing happiness'. We hope that our donation enables cultivation of social values while helping the local scholarship program and enhancing awareness of Korea in the community," Mr. Choi said. Rafael Salaberry, Director of CLIC at Rice University says that, "The Center for Languages and Intercultural Communication at Rice University is delighted to receive this generous gift from SK Innovation. With this gift, we will continue to support students with limited financial means to participate in our Rice in Korea program. The generous support of SK Group will help many students at Rice have access to an educational opportunity that is quickly becoming a needed component of a well-rounded university education. We are honored by the trust that SK Innovation has placed on us to help them continue to advance their vision of community engagement through our academic programs in Korean." Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,879 undergraduates and 2,861 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for quality of life and for lots of race/class interaction and No. 2 for happiest students by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance. SK Innovation is the leading energy and petrochemical company engaged in various fields of business from petroleum production, refining, chemicals, lubricants, batteries to future energy. It is an affiliate of SK Group, which is the second largest business group in South Korea. SK Innovation strives to share greater happiness in society by engaging in a range of philanthropic activities and makes social contributions in various fields including social enterprises, education, regional co-growth and the environment. It aims to make all members of society happy with the aim of becoming a company that improves the value of life through social contributions. In the past, SK Innovation, among others, made the following social contributions and donations. On May 25 , SK Innovation employees volunteered at the Houston Food Bank in service for Houston's families in need. , SK Innovation employees volunteered at the Houston Food Bank in service for families in need. On June 6 , SK Innovation donated a total of $50,000 to the Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance (TRSA) program in Oklahoma . TRSA is a regional social contribution program supporting teachers and students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It is sponsored by the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board (OERB) which is a private organization founded by oil and gas companies. More information on SK Innovation is available at http://eng.skinnovation.com/main.asp. About SK Innovation Established as South Korea's first oil refining company in 1962, SK Innovation engages in diverse areas of business, including exploration and production (E&P), batteries, and information and electronics materials. It owns SK energy, South Korea's number one refining company, SK global chemical, the leader in the domestic petrochemical industry, SK lubricants, a global lubricants company, SK Incheon petrochem, a refining and chemical company, and SK trading international, a trader of crude oils and petrochemicals. As part of their management system, SK Innovation pursues the maximization of happiness for all interested parties. It is for this reason that SK Innovation recognizes the importance of and pays attention to social enterprise, a way to create social values through business. SOURCE SK Innovation Related Links http://eng.skinnovation.com/main.asp CORTE MADERA, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- SL Corporation, the leader in TIBCO middleware monitoring since 2004, is proud to announce our continued sponsorship of TIBCO's annual customer conference for the 14th year in a row. TIBCO NOW 2017 is the largest gathering of TIBCO customers, partners and experts, this year and takes place October 25-26 in San Diego, Ca. During the event, SL experts will be on hand in the Solutions Showcase to demonstrate expertise on their TIBCO Monitoring platform, showing attendees how they can proactively monitor and troubleshoot their entire TIBCO Middleware environment with RTView. Demonstrations will also cover best practices and new advances for monitoring. SL Corporation's CEO and founder Tom Lubinski will also be giving a keynote that will discuss three major challenges facing IT Groups today. In this rapidly changing world, you must have visibility across your entire infrastructure, empower employees with the right information and insight into what the data means. Tom will share solutions to these challenges and discuss how being proactive with your TIBCO integration platforms is the most effective way to avoid outages. "TIBCO NOW is one of our favorite events because it gives us the opportunity to connect with our customers and get feedback on our latest innovations. We want to help customers Find and Fix problems before anyone even notices. We would love to see you there. We will be showcasing a lot of new solutions this year," said Ted Wilson, SL COO. Ted Wilson from SL will also be co-presenting in a breakout sessions along with a TIBCO executive. The topic will be "What's New with TIBCO Middleware Monitoring." For more information about RTView and how SL can help you monitor your end-to-end TIBCO middleware environment, please visit www.sl.com/tibco. To schedule a media interview with a SL subject matter expert, please contact Gia Hodges at [email protected]. About SL Corporation SL is a San Francisco Bay Area-based software company that develops real-time monitoring, visualization and diagnostic software for Global 1000 and mid-market companies whose businesses depend on complex, high-performance applications. The company has deep expertise in monitoring and management of custom, distributed applications running in heterogeneous middleware environments. SL's RTView product lines address a broad spectrum of enterprise visibility challenges including end-to-end application monitoring, middleware monitoring, infrastructure monitoring and custom monitoring. Contact: Gia Lombardi-Hodges [email protected] 415-927-8541 SOURCE SL Corporation Related Links http://www.sl.com CHICAGO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Century Snacks' Snak Club brand, the highest velocity trail mix in the convenience channel per IRI data for the last 52 weeks ending Sept. 3, 2017, will showcase new packaging and six new products at the 2017 National Association of Convenience Show (NACS). Snak Club's new packaging ranked #1 among designs tested in a third-party consumer survey conducted by MAi Research. Trail mix consumers preferred Snak Club's new packaging more than two times the packaging of key competitors tested. The new bag has a resealable zipper and highlights key nutritional purchase criteria such as the protein and fiber content, the absence of artificial ingredients, and non-GMO and gluten free attributes on both the front and back of the package. Snak Club will also unveil six new on-trend snack mix innovations at NACS that will launch in November. Seventy-seven percent of trail mix consumers surveyed by MAi Research indicated that they would definitely or probably purchase each of these new products: Tropical Coco-Mango Nut Mix, Chocolate Coconut Nut Mix, Omega Fruit & Nut Mix, Sweet & Salty Poppin' Nuts, Honey Bliss Nut Mix and Southwestern Snack Mix. "As the highest velocity trail mix brand in the convenience channel, we always seek to meet evolving consumer needs with the best products possible," said Century Snacks CEO, Tom Holland. "After extensive consumer research, we are excited to showcase our new consumer-preferred packaging and products at NACS as we position Snak Club as a leader within the nut and trail mix categories." The NACS Show will take place Oct. 17-20, 2017, at McCormick Place located at 2301 South King Drive, Chicago, Illinois. Snak Club invites attendees to visit booth #1227 to sample its offerings, which are also available in convenience stores across the country. For more information on the show, please visit www.nacsonline.com. About Century Snacks For more than thirty-three years, Century Snacks has been preparing both classic roasted and flavorful seasoned nuts as well as assembling innovative trail mix and snack mix products in their now SQF 3 certified manufacturing facilities in Southern California. Century Snacks crafts Snak Club, Muncheros and other branded products as well as national private brand products for retailers across the United States. Century Snacks operates in the City of Commerce, CA. and is a portfolio company of Insignia Capital Group. About Insignia Capital Group Insignia Capital Group is a San Francisco Bay Area private equity firm focused on lower middle-market companies. Insignia partners with company founders and management teams to help drive growth and achieve true business potential. The firm's principals have significant experience building businesses across a range of industries including consumer, business services, and healthcare. In addition to Century Snacks, Insignia's portfolio companies also include Truco Enterprises, a provider of tortilla chips, salsa and queso under the On The Border brand, and Tillamook Country Smoker, a provider of jerky, meat sticks and other meat snack products. For more information, please visit www.insigniacap.com. SOURCE Century Snacks Doll joined Aston in engaging the students with an extensive nature display which included bugs and larvae. Following the presentation, Doll and Subaru of America employees delivered the new science books to 14 additional elementary, middle, and high schools across the city in honor of the automaker's community commitment to its new neighborhood. Subaru plans to occupy its new U.S. headquarters in the city of Camden in spring 2018. In support of its move, the automaker recently launched Subaru Camden Works , an effort which commits funds to various local Camden community programs which improve the vitality of neighborhoods and enhance the quality of life for residents. "Getting young people excited about careers in science is at the heart of 'Subaru Loves Learning,' and our 'Love Promise' community commitment. We couldn't be happier to be bringing much needed educational resources to our new home in Camden," said Thomas J. Doll, president and COO, Subaru of America. "As we count down the days before we move into our new headquarters in the city, it is important that Subaru and its employees do all we can to continue to make a positive impact on the local youth." Subaru Loves Learning is part of the brand's Love Promise platform, created to support its customers and the causes dearest to their hearts within their local communities. In partnership with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Subaru and 477 participating retailers will donate more than 76,000 science books to schools around the country as part of this year's program. "So many of our Camden teachers work to find ways to put literacy and STEM at the heart of every lesson, so this generous donation of more than 3,000 new science books is going to have a big impact on our students," said Superintendent Rouhanifard. "Subaru has always been a great believer in the potential of Camden students, and we deeply appreciate the ongoing support for our kids and schools." "The City Council is extremely grateful for Subaru's continued commitment to Camden schools and students," said Mayor Dana L. Redd. "As we work to improve education and employability options for our young people, the focus on STEM and science in elementary school will be critical in encouraging more Camden students to pursue careers in in-demand fields like engineering, technology, and the allied health sciences." For information about Subaru Loves Learning and to find out more about the partners that Subaru supports, visit http://www.subaru.com/loves-learning and follow #SubaruLovesLearning. About Subaru Love Promise The Subaru Love Promise is just that. A promise. It is a promise to do right by our community by partnering with nonprofit education, health, community, environment, and animal organizations - to set Subaru apart through our deeds and the deeds of our partners. To be unlike any other car company by doing what is right and good, just for the sake of doing it. About Subaru of America, Inc. Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 620 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company's vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA has donated more than $120 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged more than 40,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do. For additional information visit media.subaru.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Media contact: Maita Soukup Camden City School District Division of Communications [email protected] c: 856-375-4737 Diane Anton Subaru of America Corporate Communications Manager [email protected] p: 856-488-5093 SOURCE Subaru of America, Inc. Related Links http://www.subaru.com DALLAS, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- According to an inaugural survey from ISN, the global leader in contractor and supplier information management, the shortage of a skilled and competent workforce was identified as the top challenge by companies in achieving their contractor management objectives in the next 12-18 months. At the same time, 42 percent of the companies surveyed expect their need for outsourcing work to third-party contractors to increase, half of which anticipate double-digit increases. ISN's Contractor Management Strategy Survey collected insights from 204 decision makers at 161 companies that hire contractors in capital-intensive industries throughout North America including Oil & Gas, Agriculture, Food & Beverage, Utilities, Manufacturing and Pharmaceuticals/Healthcare. The survey was designed to provide a contractor management benchmark which helps large companies, including prime contractors that rely on subcontractors, drive continual improvement in their efforts toward a zero-incident workplace. "As organizations outsource more work to third-party contractors, managing those contractors at both an individual and company level is increasingly important to mitigate and manage risks," said Joseph Eastin, President and Chief Executive Officer of ISN. "Internal and external constraints such as competing internal priorities, shortage of qualified workers and an increased reliance on subcontractor relationships continue to put pressure on companies that hire contractors. It is essential to have a strategic contractor management plan in place that ensures work is being completed in a safe, reliable and sustainable manner." Outsourcing Not Slowing Down, Threat of Unqualified Subcontractors Persists Eight times more companies expect to use more contractor work hours in the future than those that expect to use less contractors. Of those surveyed, almost half of organizations reported using contractors to complete between 40-100 percent of their on-site work. According to the survey, these companies, referred to as Hiring Organizations throughout the report, felt their inability to ensure subcontractor competency and compliance is a significant risk as they work toward achieving their contractor management objectives. This threat was followed by process safety management concerns, including insufficient change management processes. Top Priority: Safety Performance for Employees and Contractors Improving the safety performance of both employees and contractors was identified as the top priority for driving organization's contractor management goals. In addition, improving business continuity and operational excellence was also ranked as a key driver for meeting their contactor management objectives. "The survey data confirms what we've seen in the industry; leading organizations drive a safety-first culture and maintain a documented strategic plan for their contractor management objectives," said Dag Yemenu, Senior Vice President of Technical Services at ISN. "By establishing a clear communication strategy, incorporating a risk-ranking process and integrating internal business processes, a sustainable contractor management system is one that enables you to meet your safety and compliance objectives while promoting a culture of transparency, partnership and continuous improvement." About ISN To learn more, visit About ISN. Visit the ISN Publications page on ISNetworld to request your copy of these reports. For media inquiries, please contact: Dag Yemenu [email protected] 214.303.4900 SOURCE ISN Related Links http://www.isnetworld.com SANTA ROSA, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital announced today that it will reopen with full services at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 17 just eight days after the hospital was evacuated during the devastating Tubbs Fire in Sonoma County. "We're eager to welcome patients, staff and doctors tomorrow morning," said Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital CEO Mike Purvis. "Getting back to providing health care for our community, especially during this unprecedented disaster, will be healing for all of us." Beginning Tuesday morning, Sutter Santa Rosa will again offer full inpatient and emergency care services. Elective procedures will resume at a later date. To reopen, the hospital had to undergo a thorough cleaning and pass inspections by both the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development and the California Department of Public Health. "To prepare the hospital for re-opening wasn't an easy task," said Jeff Gerard, president of Sutter Health Bay Area. "So many of our team members were affected by the fireat least 60 lost their homesyet we are committed to reopen the hospital on Tuesday. Reopening the hospital only eight days after having to evacuate demonstrates the strength of our integrated network. Working together, we were able to marshal and quickly provide the necessary support and resources to reopen the hospital and empower the staff of Sutter Santa Rosa to do what they do besttake care of the community." The Evacuation The hospital, at 30 Mark West Springs Rd., was evacuated in the early morning hours on Monday, October 9. Hospital staff safely transferred 77 patients and evacuated nearly 100 community members who had come to the hospital seeking refuge from the fast-moving inferno. "All the hospitals in our North Bay region and beyond were very quick to respond to take patients and provide resources [for the evacuation]," Purvis said. "Our staff drills for all types of unplanned and catastrophic events on a regular basisand that definitely contributed to the success of the evacuation," he added. Hospital's Well Water System Saves Hospital, Continues to Aid Firefighters Firefighters were able to access the hospital's six vast underground water tanks. Sutter Santa Rosa was built with its own well water system, separate from the city's water system, to protect the hospital against disasters and support sustainability. To date, firefighters have used more than 500,000 gallons from the hospital's supply to battle the wildfires. Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation Clinic Status In addition to the hospital, numerous clinics were forced to close by the inferno, including 13 medical clinics operated by Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation. Ten of these thirteen, along with Sutter Walk-In Care in Petaluma, have since reopened. For a complete list of open and closed clinics and surgery centers, see https://www.sutterhealth.org/for-patients/community-alert. Other Information Sutter Health has established a hotline for patients and staff seeking more information at 1-866-961-2889. Sutter Health donated $250,000 to the American Red Cross Wildfire Fund on behalf of its employees, doctors and volunteers to help support community members and employees affected by the devastating wildfires. to the American Red Cross Wildfire Fund on behalf of its employees, doctors and volunteers to help support community members and employees affected by the devastating wildfires. Sutter Health is actively supporting its communities, patients, employees and physicians by: Donating supplies, such as gauze and saline solution, to evacuation centers in Santa Rosa and Petaluma . and . Providing support to Sutter Health staff and physicians who need it, including financial aid, disaster recovery pay, prescription assistance, and other employee assistance support ranging from insurance claims help to mental health resources. Creating a new Sutter Health Philanthropic Disaster Relief Fund, a special fund to support employees, physicians and other medical staff who care for Sutter patients and were affected by this disaster. Anyone can contribute to this fund. Online donation forms are available here. For more information about the Sutter Health network visit: sutterhealth.org | facebook.com/sutterhealth | youtube.com/sutterhealth | twitter.com/sutterhealth. Contact: Sutter Health 24-Hour Media Line: 916-286-6695 Or Lisa Amador: 707-292-6522 SOURCE Sutter Health Related Links http://www.sutterhealth.org "Karl is an experienced investor and operator, his entrepreneurial journey has spanned 30 years, eight company creations, an IPO of the company he founded while still in Graduate School, not to mention the creation of thousands of jobs," said founding general partner, Bill Malloy . "We are thrilled to welcome Karl as a General Partner, he will be instrumental in advising existing portfolio companies, driving new investments, while also serving as our senior point in Europe and the Middle East." The appointment of Karlsson as general partner will intensify Sway Ventures' accelerating reach within UK, Europe and the Middle East. Karlsson aims to work with existing Sway Ventures portfolio companies in the EMEA region to advance innovation in Europe. "As founders look to take their product globally, our ecosystem helps support them by creating commercialization pathways. In fact, many of our strategic limited partners provide valuable introductions and connections throughout the EMEA region," said founding general partner Brian Nugent. "Sway Ventures was built on the thesis of supporting International expansion between U.S. and EMEA for its portfolio." Karlsson brings a deep understanding of European technology and investment communities, and has been instrumental to the success of a large number of global tech companies' both as a founding entrepreneur and as an investor. "There are Transatlantic Arbitrage Opportunities to be had bringing EMEA based startups to U.S. that's where my focus lies, in finding those category defining companies and providing our entire network to them to commercialize their product in the U.S.," said Karlsson. His philanthropic ventures include: Co-organizing and participating in Prince Albert II of Monaco's dog sledding expedition to the North Pole benefiting the World Wildlife Fund, serving as Chairman of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Oceanic Explorers, and Senior Expedition Advisor to Virgin Oceanic. As a Baden-Powell fellow, Karlsson supports His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden in his passion project of global Scouting. He is a member of the Travelers Club, and a fellow of The Explorers Club. About Sway Ventures Sway Ventures is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm, investing in early- to mid-stage technology companies. The firm invest in high performing teams, building revolutionary technology, creating the next enterprise or consumer category. With a focus on strategic capitalization, business development support, and engineered exits, Sway Ventures provides entrepreneurs with the support they need to change the future. www.swayvc.com Press Contact: Patrick ONeill 415-917-0892 or [email protected] SOURCE Sway Ventures Related Links http://www.swayvc.com WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- At the fourth round of NAFTA renegotiation, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters dispatched staff from both its U.S. and Canadian trade policy teams to track and influence the negotiations on behalf of several top Teamster priorities, including highway safety, dairy supply management and worker rights. As the talks wind down tomorrow, both General President Jim Hoffa and Teamsters Canada President Francois Laporte express support for U.S. and Canadian negotiators on these and other issues. In particular, the Teamsters applaud the decision by the U.S. Trade Representative to fix the NAFTA cross-border trucking provision. "The Teamsters and our allies among independent truckers and highway safety advocates will be pleased with the U.S. position on cross-border services," Hoffa explained. "The USTR approach is a creative solution to this long-standing controversy. Without getting into the details of the proposed text, I am satisfied that the U.S. position will permit Congress and the Dept. of Transportation to safeguard the livelihoods of American truck drivers and the personal safety of American families on U.S. highways under NAFTA 2.0." Laporte said, "Minister Freeland and Canadian negotiators have a progressive, pro-worker influence on these talks. We hope that the other parties will commit to a strong and enforceable labor chapter, grounded in the initial Canadian proposal, which would serve as a model for protecting workers' rights in future trade agreements." As North America's dairy workers' union, Teamsters have also been monitoring U.S. demands on dairy. "The United States launched a violent assault on Canada's dairy supply management system. Tens of thousands of jobs will be in jeopardy unless the Trudeau Government continues its defense of dairy workers and farmers," Laporte said. "Don't be surprised if U.S. dairy proposals derail these NAFTA talks. An unstoppable force is meeting an immovable object." Finally, the Teamsters express cautious optimism that the investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) apparatus will be dramatically reformed under a new NAFTA in a way that protects our governments and sovereignty from corporate litigation in secretive tribunals. "Under the Ambassador's leadership, the USTR staff has proposed a bold revision to the substantive scope and jurisdiction of these controversial corporate courts," Hoffa said. "The reported 'opt-in' provision is a good step to fulfilling the USTR's promise to remake the investment chapter." The Teamsters, along with many other civil society critics of ISDS in both Canada and the United States will be hard-pressed to support a final agreement that doesn't limit future ISDS cases to claims of direct expropriation. "We note with approval the corporate consternation from the chambers of commerce over this important and overdue reform," Hoffa added. "The vehemence of the opposition from the employer community is an indication of just how unused they are to not getting their full agenda into trade deals, and it's about time!" Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters. Contact: Ted Gotsch, (202) 624-6911 [email protected] SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters Related Links http://www.teamster.org SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Thales, a leader in critical information systems, cybersecurity and data security, announces the results of its 2017 Data Threat Report, Financial Services Edition. Issued in conjunction with 451 Research, the report reveals 42 percent of U.S. financial services organizations have experienced a breach in the past. Additionally, 12 percent were victims of multiple data breaches. Click to Tweet: 42 percent of U.S. #finserv IT pros have experienced a data breach #2017DataThreat http://bit.ly/2kBv4tm Hackers zero in on financial businesses As the primary repositories and channels of the world's financial data, financial services organizations are an ongoing target for cybercriminals. While these breach numbers may be unsurprising at face value, they do paint a picture of an industry contending with a more aggressive threat landscape. For example, 24 percent of organizations experienced a breach in the past year a number that jumped from 19 percent in 2016. 86 percent of respondents also believe their organizations are vulnerable to data threats. Digital transformation shaping, challenging financial data security Many financial organizations are making the leap from legacy systems to technologies such as cloud, big data, container, and IoT solutions reflecting changing consumer preferences and marketplace pressures. While almost all (96 percent) respondents will use sensitive data in an advanced technology environment this year, 47 percent are deploying these technologies in advance of having appropriate levels of data security in place. With large volumes of data and applications moving to the cloud, 53 percent of respondents are most concerned about shared infrastructure vulnerabilities and lack of data-location control, with security breaches at the cloud service provider (CSP) coming in second at 52 percent. Regulation top driver for encryption In what is already a heavily regulated industry, there are now more than 100 national data privacy and sovereignty regulations. There is a strong understanding among those surveyed of how encryption can help protect critical data. Of the two-thirds of respondents affected by data privacy and sovereignty regulations and laws, 70 percent say encryption is the top control planned to address these requirements. Garrett Bekker, principal analyst for information security at 451 Research says: "While the financial sector has made substantial technological advances, it's still tied to security solutions that worked in the past but aren't necessarily the most effective at stopping modern attacks. There are a number of data security technologies such as encryption and key management solutions that could arguably do a better job of protecting data, particularly data being used in cloud, big data and IoT environments." Peter Galvin, vice president of strategy, Thales e-Security says: "Data breaches continue to hit the headlines and, as recently illustrated by the Equifax breach, the financial services industry is a prime target for hackers. As digitization continues to transform the industry's online infrastructures it is critical organizations implement data security solutions that follow the data wherever it is created, shared or stored." Other top findings from the 2017 Data Threat Report, Financial Edition: 78 percent of respondents will increase their IT security spending. Privileged users are the top internal data-security threat as selected by 61 percent of respondents, followed by executive staff (40 percent). When it comes to external threats, cyber-criminals are No. 1 (52 percent), followed by cyber-terrorists (18 percent) and nation-states (14 percent). A substantial majority (84 percent) of respondents reported use of IoT technologies this year. Best practices and recommendations Financial services organizations seeking ways to meet compliance and adopt advanced technologiesall while remaining secureshould: select data security platforms that address a variety of use cases, emphasize ease-of-use, and offer encryption, enterprise key management, access control and security intelligence to avoid the intricacy and high costs of implementing multiple data-security solutions; invest in security tools that include automation to reduce complexity; and implement security analytics and multi-factor authentication solutions to help identify threatening patterns of data use. Download a copy of the 2017 Thales Data Threat Report, Financial Services Edition for more detailed security best practices. About Thales eSecurity Thales eSecurity is the leader in advanced data security solutions and services that deliver trust wherever information is created, shared or stored. We ensure that the data belonging to companies and government entities is both secure and trusted in any environment on-premises, in the cloud, in data centres or big data environments without sacrificing business agility. Security doesn't just reduce risk, it's an enabler of the digital initiatives that now permeate our daily lives digital money, e-identities, healthcare, connected cars and, with the internet of things (IoT), even household devices. Thales provides everything an organisation needs to protect and manage its data, identities and intellectual property, and meet regulatory compliance through encryption, advanced key management, tokenisation, and privileged-user control and high-assurance solutions. Security professionals around the globe rely on Thales to confidently accelerate their organisation's digital transformation. Thales eSecurity is part of Thales Group. Industry insight and views on the latest key management trends can be found on the Thales eSecurity blog at blog.thalesesecurity.com. Follow Thales eSecurity on Twitter @Thalesesecurity, and on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube. About Thales Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace, Transport, Defence and Security markets. With 64,000 employees in 56 countries, Thales reported sales of 14.9 billion in 2016. With over 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design and deploy equipment, systems and services to meet the most complex security requirements. Its exceptional international footprint allows it to work closely with its customers all over the world. Positioned as a value-added systems integrator, equipment supplier and service provider, Thales is one of Europe's leading players in the security market. The Group's security teams work with government agencies, local authorities and enterprise customers to develop and deploy integrated, resilient solutions to protect citizens, sensitive data and critical infrastructure. Thales offers world-class cryptographic capabilities and is a global leader in cybersecurity solutions for defence, government, critical infrastructure providers, telecom companies, industry and the financial services sector. With a value proposition addressing the entire data security chain, Thales offers a comprehensive range of services and solutions ranging from security consulting, data protection, digital trust management and design, development, integration, certification and security maintenance of cybersecured systems, to cyberthreat management, intrusion detection and security supervision through cybersecurity Operation Centres in France, the United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Hong Kong. SOURCE Thales Related Links http://www.thalesesec.com The Aqua Container Security Platform (CSP) delivers comprehensive, single-pane-of-glass security for containerized applications regardless of orchestration, cloud or virtualization environments. In addition to Linux-based containers, Aqua now features production-ready security for Windows Containers-based applications, which are already being used in production by Aqua customers. Aqua's Windows Containers solution enables organizations to secure their image development pipeline, ensure that only trusted images can be deployed, and enforce runtime controls that include detection and blocking of suspicious activities, nano-segmentation of container app networking, and secure delivery of secrets to containers with no downtime. "Windows Server containers are becoming a key enabler for customers building new cloud applications as well as breathing new life into their existing applications. With Aqua's support for Windows Server containers these customers gain a great and simple option for security, monitoring and auditing," said Nir Ben Zvi, Principal Program Manager, Windows Server Security. Aqua CSP 2.6 additionally includes more than 40 customer-requested features, among them: Pipeline-Driven Image Assurance Policies: Using a single, centralized console, Admins can now assign different image assurance policies and controls by pipeline, allowing to differentiate risk profiles and security controls between applications, development stages and production, or compliance and trust levels. Using a single, centralized console, Admins can now assign different image assurance policies and controls by pipeline, allowing to differentiate risk profiles and security controls between applications, development stages and production, or compliance and trust levels. SCAP support: Aqua 2.6 supports the Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) to allow custom security and compliance checks on images. SCAP scripts can be uploaded and treated as pass/fail tests for image approval, which effectively automates compliance checks into the CI/CD process. Aqua 2.6 supports the Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) to allow custom security and compliance checks on images. SCAP scripts can be uploaded and treated as pass/fail tests for image approval, which effectively automates compliance checks into the CI/CD process. Fine-Grained Auditing for Compliance: Admins can now selectively turn on fine-grained auditing for processes, which allows recording of extended information about the process, like the command arguments and md5 signature. Admins can now selectively turn on fine-grained auditing for processes, which allows recording of extended information about the process, like the command arguments and md5 signature. Enhanced Machine Learning Controls: Extends Aqua's machine learning algorithms to allow automatic profiling of Linux and Windows application activity and create runtime security policies. Aqua 2.6 shows a 50% improvement in the time it takes to automatically learn a web application. "As enterprise use of containers continues to mature, the real needs of enterprises for native container application security emerge," said Amir Jerbi, CTO and co-founder of Aqua Security. "With Aqua 2.6 we continue to commit to our 'secure once, run anywhere' objective, adding production-ready support for Windows containers, in addition to our support for Linux containers and all major orchestrator stacks." The Aqua team is at DockerCon EU in Copenhagen this week, and will be featured in several sessions: What Have Syscalls Done For You Lately? - Liz Rice , Technology Evangelist at Aqua, Black Belt session - Auditorium 10, Tuesday, 17 Oct. at 11:15AM - , Technology Evangelist at Aqua, Black Belt session - Auditorium 10, Tuesday, 17 Oct. at Modern App Security Requires Containers - Panel discussion featuring Liz Rice - Auditorium 10, Tuesday, 17 Oct. at 5:10PM - Panel discussion featuring - Auditorium 10, Tuesday, 17 Oct. at The Equifax Breach - Contained by Containers - Benjy Portnoy , Director of DevSecOps at Aqua, Ecosystem session - Auditorium 12, Wednesday, 18 Oct. at 1:50PM DockerCon EU attendees are invited to attend the sessions, and learn more about Aqua 2.6 at booth #G10 at the expo hall. About Aqua Security Aqua Security enables enterprises to secure their container-based applications from development to production, accelerating container adoption and bridging the gap between DevOps and IT security. Integrated with container lifecycle and orchestration tools, the Aqua platform provides transparent, automated security while helping to enforce policy and simplify regulatory compliance. Aqua was founded in 2015 and is backed by Lightspeed Venture Partners, Microsoft Ventures, TLV Partners and IT security leaders, and is based in Israel and San Francisco, CA. For more information, visit www.aquasec.com or follow us on twitter.com/AquaSecTeam. SOURCE Aqua Security Related Links http://www.aquasec.com $20 million initiative will help kids discover what life is like for their peers around the world NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The KIND Foundation, started by KIND Snacks, today announces a $20 million multi-year initiative called Empatico, which will broaden kids' world views through meaningful interactions with peers across the globe. The free online learning tool will enable students to practice communication and leadership skills needed to succeed in a divided country and interdependent world. By the end of 2020, Empatico endeavors to reach more than one million students in 25 countries and eventually make it possible for kids everywhere to connect with one another. Empatico is consistent with the Foundation's nontraditional approach to philanthropy, which often personifies KIND's name and embodies its longstanding mission to elevate kindness and empathy. Like KIND's other social impact commitments, Empatico is inspired by the early experiences of KIND founder Daniel Lubetzky. "My heritage as the son of a Holocaust survivor and a Mexican immigrant have shown me what happens when people don't develop an appreciation for difference. That's why KIND has always strived to help people discover each other's humanity," says Lubetzky, Founder and CEO of KIND and President of The KIND Foundation. "Empatico is the most assertive step we've taken to realize this mission. Our hope is that this tool expands boundaries of understanding for the next generation of leaders so that they are prepared to tackle the world's problems together." Leading technologists, passionate teachers and global education experts collaborated to develop the beta version, which is accessible at Empatico.org. Now teachers are invited to test the tool, share feedback, and help optimize it for their classroom needs. Unlike other virtual exchange tools, Empatico is specifically designed for 8-10-year-olds. According to George Khalaf, the Executive Director of Empatico, this age range represents a unique opportunity. "Neuroscience suggests that changing the adult mind is an uphill battle because so much of our brain has already been wired, and we have developed default assumptions about those who are different. In 8-10-year-olds, however, biases have yet to become deeply rooted," Khalaf explains. "Around this time, kids are asking questions about their place in the world. Giving them an opportunity to develop this curiosity and have positive experiences with diverse people can strongly influence how they perceive others in the future." Empatico aims to be a one-stop-shop for teachers. The free tool combines reliable and intuitive video conferencing technology with standards-based activities on universal topics that supplement existing curriculum. To get started, all teachers need is an internet connection and a computer with a camera. While Empatico is currently only available for students who can converse in English, there are plans to expand it to non-English speakers. For Heather Walker, an elementary school teacher, Empatico is an easy way for teachers to give their students a window to the world. "Most students at our school have never left the boundaries of Chula Vista. Enabling them to have meaningful conversations and discover life outside their community has so many learning benefits, and will ultimately prepare them for the world," says Walker, who serves as an Education Innovation Specialist in San Diego. "We'd be doing our learners a disservice if we didn't provide them with this opportunity." Sarah King, Deputy Director of the Global Learning Lab at Teach For All, reiterates the value of providing kids an opportunity to engage with those who have different perspectives. "Our world is dramatically changing, and what is required of students to participate and be leaders in it has also changed," asserts King. "Empatico is a practical, globally-minded tool that can help teachers cultivate necessary character skills, like kindness, collaboration, and critical thinking." Empatico is the Foundation's most ambitious initiative, in terms of both funding and vision, to date. To learn more, visit kinded.com/Empatico. About The KIND Foundation The KIND Foundation is a philanthropic entity established by KIND Healthy Snacks. Its mission, which is to foster kinder and more empathetic communities, is brought to life through a variety of programming meant to celebrate and inspire positive action. In 2016, through a program called KIND People, the Foundation celebrated seven individuals transforming their communities through kindness with $1.1 million in prizes. Each month, it also awards one socially-impactful cause with a $10,000 grant through a program called KIND Causes. In 2017, the Foundation unveiled a social media experiment that challenged Americans to add diverse perspectives to their Facebook feeds. Called Pop Your Bubble, that experiment is ongoing at popyourbubble.com. Earlier this fall, the Foundation once again partnered with Making Caring Common, an initiative of the Harvard Graduate School of Education, to implement the KIND Schools Challenge. The Challenge invites middle- and high-school students across the country to implement projects that will make their school communities kinder and more inclusive. Recently, the Foundation announced a $20 million multi-year initiative called Empatico. Empatico is an online learning tool that connects kids worldwide and helps them develop skills like curiosity and kindness. To learn more, visit kindsnacks.com/foundation. SOURCE The KIND Foundation MIAMI, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Resilience Action Fund (RAF) founder and construction industry veteran Aris Papadopoulos shared a panel with Paris Agreement champion Christiana Figueres during the World Bank's annual meeting in Washington, D.C., on Oct.13, 2017. The day was the International Disaster Risk Reduction Day. Held Oct. 1 on International Disaster Risk Reduction Day, the World Bank panel included Resilience Action Fund founder Aris Papadopoulos and Paris Agreement champion Christiana Figueres Following a year so far of escalating disasters in North America and around the globe, the panel's topic was 'The Disaster That Never Happened How Resilient Infrastructure Will Save the World.' The full discussion, including keynote remarks by Sir Richard Branson, can be viewed at http://live.worldbank.org/resilient-infrastructure. RAF's founder stated that rebuilding again and again post-disaster has a major impact on resources, energy use and the environmental. Therefore environmental groups should embrace resilience to natural hazards as a pathway to achieving climate goals. He also noted that government weakness in land planning, placing infrastructure in high-risk locations and not being transparent with the public on the hazard vulnerabilities of communities and buildings were all impediments to achieving greater resilience. Finally, he noted that we have distorted the concept of affordable homes and communities by accepting that affordability can be achieved by lowering resilience standards, which has an enormous cost to society. Instead, we need to 'Make Resilience Affordable' by raising standards and challenging innovation, progress down cost-curves and changing incentives in order to achieve affordability at higher resilience levels than what we have today. RAF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, whose mission is to advance awareness, transparency and education for greater resilience in the built environment against natural and other hazards. The mission is closely aligned with the goals of the UN Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction: 2015-2030, signed in March 2015 by 187 countries. This milestone agreement is referenced in the COP21 Paris Agreement, which contained the strongest ever call for climate adaptation. RAF is also publisher of the recent book 'Resilience: The Ultimate Sustainability Lessons from Failing to Develop a Stronger and Safer Built Environment' (available at www.buildingresilient.com). For more information please contact [email protected]. Related Files News Release - Miami October '17 WB.pdf Related Images image1.png World Bank Panel on Resilience Challenges Conventional Thinking image2.png Resilience Action Fund founder Aris Papadopoulos makes point on how we can make our communities less vulnerable to natural hazards Related Links Resilience Action Fund SOURCE Resilience Action Fund Related Links http://www.buildingresilient.com CHICAGO, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The UNCLE BEN'S Brand, the number-one global rice brand, is excited to announce this year's 25 BEN'S BEGINNERS Cooking Contest finalists. Now in its sixth year, the BEN'S BEGINNERS program is part of a movement driven by the UNCLE BEN'S Brand to inspire families to cook together and to help kids learn the essential life skill of cooking as well as they learn how to read and write. The finalists are vying for a chance to be one of the five grand prize winners who will each receive $15,000 cash, a hometown celebration and a $30,000 cafeteria makeover for their school. The following finalists were selected out of entries from across the country: Wendy Salauson and Ean of Hoover, Ala. Kim Ly and Peter of San Gabriel, Calif. and Peter of Katherine Passaro and Vincent of Hudson, Fla. and Vincent of Juliana Evans and Gabby from Wesley Chapel, Fla. and Gabby from Rayshun Wright and Joshua of Statham, Ga. and Joshua of Jeanae Osborne and Owen of Shreveport, La. and Owen of Nohelia Castillo and Yaleska of New Carrollton, Md. and Yaleska of James Markwood and Savannah of Silver Springs, Md. and Savannah of Emily Bydlon and Simon of Andover, Minn. and Simon of John Ruhland and Cassidy of Poughkeepsie, N.Y. and Cassidy of Vivian Arazu and Gerald of Rome, N.Y. Rodney Sheffield and RJ of Amelia, Ohio and RJ of Rapheal Jacob and Maya of Broken Arrow, Okla. and Maya of Rapheal Jacob and Nigel of Broken Arrow, Okla. and Nigel of Alyssa Oxenreider and Austin of Shillington, Pa. and of Alyssa Oxenreider and Levi of Shillington, Pa. and Levi of Carole McMahon and Colton of Myrtle Beach, S.C. and Colton of Luciana Malkomes and Gabriela of Arlington, Texas Matthew Thyng and Sam of Austin, Texas and Sam of Eric Thomas and Chandler of League City, Texas and of Carmen Lemmon and Brooklyn of Taylorsville, Utah and of Matthew Adkins and Juliet of Coleman Falls, Va. and Juliet of Keith O Brien and Ronan of Falls Church, Va. Peter Grender and Gordon of Cambridge, Wis. and of Peter Grender and Samuel of Cambridge, Wis. To qualify, parents and young chefs were encouraged to submit a recipe and photo demonstrating the power of shared meals by preparing a rice-based dish together. Now, finalists will rally their communities to not only vote for their recipe, but encourage all families to inspire healthy eating habits by cooking together. "The BEN'S BEGINNERS campaign continues to inspire parents and children nationwide to make lasting memories in the kitchen," said Manish Amin, Senior Brand Manager, UNCLE BEN'S. "We know that cooking as a family from a young age has many benefits, from instilling healthy habits to leading to higher academic achievement. We applaud our top 25 finalists and their families for their dedication to creating delicious meals together while having fun." Starting today, through November 6, 2017, individuals can visit unclebens.com to vote for one of the 25 finalists' photos. After the voting period closes, five grand prize winners will be selected. For more information on the contest, kid-friendly cooking tips and recipes, please visit unclebens.com. About the UNCLE BEN'S Brand The UNCLE BEN'S Brand, the number one rice brand in the world, is proud to offer a wide range of rice dishes with flavors and textures that will help bring more to your meals, both for savory main courses and convenient side dishes. The UNCLE BEN'S Brand offers a wide variety of white, whole grain brown, and flavored rices in cook times ranging from 30 minutes to 90 seconds, as well as rice for food service operations such as restaurants, schools and hospitals. The first mass-produced parboiled rice, UNCLE BEN'S Brand products can be found in more than 100 countries worldwide. The UNCLE BEN'S Brand products are manufactured by Mars Food, part of Mars, Incorporated. For more information, visit www.unclebens.com. SOURCE UNCLE BENS Brand Related Links http://www.unclebens.com CHICAGO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Vrdolyak Law Group has recovered $700,000 for an Illinois man who was severely injured in a motor vehicle accident with a large semi-truck. The truck's insurance company refused to compensate the victim, claiming that he was not injured, despite the fact that the victim's injuries were serious enough to require neck and back injections. The victim therefore retained the Vrdolyak Law Group, a Chicago-based law firm with experience handling cases against big trucking companies. The Vrdolyak Law Group spent tens of thousands of their own money to hire experts to prove the victim's injuries were due to the accident. During the case, the Vrdolyak Law Group discovered that the truck's insurance company had been secretly video-taping the victim in an attempt to intimidate him. "Insurance companies will try to discredit the victims to get out of compensating them," said Edward J. Vrdolyak, Managing Partner of the Vrdolyak Law Group. "It's important for our clients to know we'll fight for them." The Vrdolyak Law Group took the case to mediation and successfully forced the semi-truck's insurance company to pay $700,000 for the client's injuries. "There are a lot of semi-truck accidents and oftentimes the victims are bullied into accepting low-ball offers or nothing at all," said Steve Armbruster, Lead Attorney. "That's why they need the Vrdolyak Law Group to fight for them." The Vrdolyak Law Group founded in 1963, has grown into a Chicago legal landmark. It is recognized as a premier personal injury, medical malpractice and workers' compensation law firm, with a team of 19 attorneys experienced in a wide range of other practice areas. The firm has three locations in Chicago, and is led by managing partner Edward J. Vrdolyak. http://vrdolyak.com/ SOURCE Vrdolyak Law Group Related Links http://vrdolyak.com PELLA, Iowa, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- TheBestSchools.org, a leading online publication for ranking schools and degree programs, has now published its online guide "Financial Aid for Online College: Everything You Need to Know and Do." https://thebestschools.org/financial-aid/online-college-students/ Financial Aid For Online College: Everything You Need To Know and Do - TheBestSchools.org In this helpful guide, TheBestSchools.org provides the distinctive information students enrolling in online colleges and universities require for financial aid applications and to receive aid packages appropriate for their needs. "We understand the needs of students and the daunting task of securing financial aid, so we've created a comprehensive source for students seeking to enroll in an online college or course," says Dan Edelen, director of marketing services for TheBestSchools.org. "Because an online education presents its own challenges, we have consolidated the strategies, information, and links to help students meet those particular requirements." Some of the questions covered include: How do I choose an accredited online college? What challenges will I face in attending college online? How is eligibility for financial aid determined? How do I complete the FAFSA? What state- and college-specific aid options are available? What are the differences between loan and grant types such as Perkins, Stafford, PLUS, and Pell? And many more. In addition, the guide includes links to important supplementary web pages within TheBestSchools.org site and to third-party and government resources. Through "Financial Aid for Online College: Everything You Need to Know and Do," TheBestSchools.org seeks to make life easier for students choosing an online college or university and to help them maximize their ability to afford an excellent online education. TheBestSchools.org is a leader in school rankings K12, college, postgraduate, online, and on-campus providing millions of prospective students with the information they need to find the right school for them. TheBestSchools.org is an independent educational website whose staff and advisory board believe learning transforms lives for the better and should be a lifelong pursuit. Contact: Dan Edelen, Director of Marketing Services Web: https://thebestschools.org Email: [email protected] Phone: (513) 601-8202 SOURCE TheBestSchools.org Related Links https://thebestschools.org PELLA, Iowa, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- From small, local businesses to global conglomerates, every industry needs effective leadership. According to the Journal of Leadership Studies, the organizational leadership field has become one of the fastest growing fields in higher education. To this end, TheBestSchools.org, a leading online publication for ranking schools and degree programs, has now published its ranking of "The 25 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs." The 25 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs - TheBestSchools.org https://thebestschools.org/rankings/best-online-masters-organizational-leadership-degree-programs/ In this ranking, TheBestSchools.org examined those colleges and universities with online courses that use an interdisciplinary approach and which lead to a Master of Science (or Master of Arts) in Organizational Leadership degree. The ranking criteria for these master's degree programs are based on (1) the quality of the program, (2) the types of courses offered, (3) the faculty, (4) rankings, (5) awards, and (6) reputation, including the school's reputation for effectively providing online degree programs. "Skilled leadership makes or breaks today's companies," says Dan Edelen, director of marketing services for TheBestSchools.org. "It's not enough to have a good product or service. Smart companies recognize the essential need for uniquely educated executives and are subsequently driving growth in this academic field. Through this ranking of top master's programs in organizational leadership, TheBestSchools.org spotlights those colleges and universities that are shaping the next generation of corporate leadership." The 25 top US colleges and universities for an online master's degree in organizational leadership, listed alphabetically: Azusa Pacific University College, Azusa, California California Baptist University CBU Online, Riverside, California Colorado State University Global Campus School of Management and Innovation, Greenwood Village, Colorado Concordia University Wisconsin Batterman School of Business, Mequon, Wisconsin Creighton University Graduate School, Omaha, Nebraska Crown College School of Online Studies and Graduate School, St. Bonifacius, Minnesota Gonzaga University School of Professional Studies Department of Organizational Leadership Gonzaga Online, Spokane, Washington Indiana Wesleyan University College of Adult and Professional Studies School of Service and Leadership, Marion, Indiana Jacksonville University JU Davis College of Business, Jacksonville, Florida Lewis University College of Arts and Sciences Department of Organizational Leadership, Romeoville, Illinois North Park University School of Business and Nonprofit Management, Chicago, Illinois Olivet Nazarene University School of Graduate and Continuing Studies Department of Business, Bourbonnais, Illinois Penn State World Campus, University Park, Pennsylvania Quinnipiac University School of Business, Hamden, Connecticut Regent University School of Business and Leadership, Virginia Beach, Virginia Regis University College of Business and Economics, Denver, Colorado Robert Morris University School of Communications and Information Systems Department of Organizational Leadership, Moon, Pennsylvania Saint Joseph's University College of Arts and Sciences Department of Educational Leadership, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Saint Louis University School for Professional Studies, St. Louis, Missouri Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Graduate School of Business and Technology, Winona, Minnesota Southern New Hampshire University College of Online and Continuing Education, Hooksett, New Hampshire University of Denver University College, Denver, Colorado University of the Incarnate Word School of Professional Studies UIW Online, San Antonio, Texas University of Wisconsin-Platteville School of Graduate Studies Distance Learning Center, Platteville, Wisconsin Western Kentucky University University College School of Professional Studies WKU Online, Bowling Green, Kentucky Through "The 25 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs," TheBestSchools.org seeks to provide future graduate students in organizational leadership with an authoritative ranking of the field's top online master's degree programs. TheBestSchools.org is a leader in school rankings K12, college, postgraduate, online, and on-campus providing millions of prospective students with the information they need to find the right school for them. TheBestSchools.org is an independent educational website whose staff and advisory board believe learning transforms lives for the better and should be a lifelong pursuit. Contact: Dan Edelen, Director of Marketing Services Web: https://thebestschools.org Email: [email protected] Phone: (513) 601-8202 SOURCE TheBestSchools.org Related Links https://thebestschools.org NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Touchstream, the leading provider of video streaming content availability monitoring, today announces StreamCAM, Stream Content Availability Monitor, its comprehensive cloud-based service for live linear OTT streams. OTT subscribers today have little patience for a poor Quality of Experience (QoE). In fact, according to SNL Kagan, 10% of viewers will abandon an OTT service because of a poor streaming experience which can represent a significant amount of lost revenue. Touchstream debuts StreamCAM for OTT live stream monitoring at NAB Show NY What's at the heart of a poor QoE? In most cases it's the availability or performance of a stream. In an adaptive bitrate (ABR) model, viewers are moved up and down bitrates depending upon available bandwidth and other factors. But what happens when there's an issue with a specific stream in a multi-bitrate package? The viewers will experience buffering, failures or other problems when their player shifts to that bitrate. In order to provide the highest-level of QoE, service providers must ensure every bitrate in their streams is available and working at peak performance. And although many OTT providers employ player-side analytics to capture QoE issues, these solutions can only report on problems after the viewer has experienced one. StreamCAM solves the challenge of ensuring stream availability by monitoring each bitrate 24/7/365 and providing OTT service providers a proactive approach to mitigating QoE issues. Scalable and cloud-based, StreamCAM can send alerts to operations personnel the instant an anomaly is detected, even when the stream isn't being viewed. Provisioning can happen in just a few minutes, with nothing for the service provider to install or maintain. "OTT providers need to be proactive in how they address content availability," says Brenton Ough, CEO and Co-Founder. "They can't wait until there are problems. By that time, it's too late. Subscribers have churned. Viewers have abandoned. StreamCAM provides them the ability to monitor all of their bitrates and solve problems before users even access the content." StreamCAM also now features traceroute. This new feature, available through the StreamCAM dashboard or data API, provides detailed information on the route a stream takes to end users and can help identify sub-optimal routing that is negatively impacting latency as well as the responsible party. Touchstream's StreamCAM platform will be on display at NAB Show NY, booth N1167. To schedule a meeting with a Touchstream representative, visit https://touchstream.media/event/nab-ny-show/ About Touchstream International Pty Ltd Touchstream's 24x7 Proactive Live Stream Monitoring Platform is used by the world's leading media companies and service providers to gain critical insights into their stream availability and stream performance to proactively identify and quickly resolve video streaming failures before they impact the viewer's experience. Touchstream was recently recognized by CIO Review as one the 20 Most Promising Companies. Touchstream is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, with offices in Barcelona, Spain and New York, U.S.A. To learn more, visit www.touchstream.media. CONTACT Amelia Ward [email protected] +34 697 879 038 SOURCE Touchstream International Pty Ltd Related Links http://www.touchstream.media DALLAS, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Triple/S Dynamics is pleased to announce the appointment of Kenneth Everill as the new President. Mr. Everill has officially moved into that office September 25th. Mr. Everill holds a BS Computer Science (General Engineering) from the U.S. Naval Academy and an MBA Sales/Marketing Focus from the University of West Florida. He began his career as a Naval Flight Officer and spent his active duty years deploying to the Western Pacific, as well as the Kuwaiti Theatre of Operations for Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Kenneth Everill - New President of Triple/S Dynamics, Inc. Mr. Everill retired from the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve in 2010 with the rank of Colonel, after deploying to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His civilian career has been highlighted with over 20 years of sales and general management experience in the industrial sector with process automation products. "Ken brings a leadership skillset to the table for Triple/S, and, going forward, the future of the Company will benefit from his business acumen and leadership ability. The future is very bright for Triple/S Dynamics," said Ned Thompson, chairman of KMC Global. "I am excited to be a part of this management team," said Mr. Everill. "The 128-year history of the company and the engineered products designed and manufactured by Triple/S Dynamics are incredible and I'm confident we can build a stronger organization based on this foundation." Since 1888, Triple/S Dynamics is a leading manufacturer of equipment for the process industries, including the Slipstick, the original Horizontal Motion Conveyor, the Texas Shaker Vibrating Screen and the Sutton line of Density Separators and Stoners. Triple/S Dynamics is part of the KMC Global group of companies. For more information, please contact Celie Reid, Sales and Marketing Manager, Triple/S Dynamics, 214-828-8657, or visit our website, www.sssdynamics.com. SOURCE Triple/S Dynamics Related Links http://www.sssdynamics.com Crawford, of Queens, New York, is graduating from University of the Rockies with a doctor of psychology degree with a specialization in mediation and conflict resolution. Originally from Costa Rica, Crawford has spent his professional life as a counselor throughout Latin America, North America, the Caribbean, and West Africa, working in both English and Spanish. Matteson, of San Diego, Calif., is graduating with a master of arts in psychology with a specialization in mediation and conflict resolution. A military wife and mother of six, Matteson earned her degree while running a business and managing a household while her husband was deployed. More than 135 students are expected to travel to Denver to receive their diplomas during the University of the Rockies commencement ceremony. Throughout the weekend, graduation festivities will include a professional development workshop, Golden Key International and SALUTE Honour Societies Induction Ceremony and Awards Ceremony, and culminates in the commencement ceremony and reception. About University of the Rockies University of the Rockies is a leading graduate school of the social and behavioral sciences that offers programs for students seeking their PhD, PsyD, or Master of Arts degree. Based in Denver, Colo., the University provides students with the convenience of an online education. While working toward a degree from anywhere in the country, students enjoy access to industry professionals, research, and publishing opportunities. For more information, please visit www.rockies.edu/, www.twitter.com/URockies, www.facebook.com/UniversityoftheRockies, or call Lauren Coartney, Media Relations Manager, at 866.621.0124 x11636. Contact: Lauren Coartney 866.621.0124 x11609 [email protected] SOURCE University of the Rockies Related Links http://www.rockies.edu In September 2017 , Ultimaker revealed a new software-centric strategy, announcing the release of regular software upgrades that will continuously enhance the existing hardware. This makes Ultimaker a future-ready solution with an extended ecosystem that continues to deliver greater results for users and businesses over time. The first release as part of this renewed strategy is Ultimaker Cura 3.0. The key benefits of Ultimaker Cura 3.0 include: CAD integration. Providing seamless workflow integration between industry-standard CAD applications such as SolidWorks and Siemens NX. Providing seamless workflow integration between industry-standard CAD applications such as SolidWorks and Siemens NX. Updated UI and UX design. New interface with a cleaner look and feel, a new color scheme, and intuitive sliders to control print settings. New interface with a cleaner look and feel, a new color scheme, and intuitive sliders to control print settings. New skin settings. The new skin settings (Skin Removal Width, Skin Expand Distance, Extra Skin Wall Count) result in less strings, better top details, and faster prints. The new skin settings (Skin Removal Width, Skin Expand Distance, Extra Skin Wall Count) result in less strings, better top details, and faster prints. Faster start-up. Start-up speed has been cut in half. That means less time waiting and more time printing. Paul Heiden, Senior VP of Product Management at Ultimaker: "The option for our partners to link their plugins with Ultimaker Cura 3.0 unlocks endless possibilities for professionals to fully make use of their 3D printers. Businesses can now create new workflows completely tailored to their specific products. The solutions created by our partners will offer us valuable insights to the desires and needs of end-users, which will help to guide us in the continuous innovation of our entire ecosystem, from hardware to software, materials and services." For more information on Ultimaker Cura 3.0 features, see our updated blogpost here. About Ultimaker Ultimaker has been in operation since 2011, and over the years has grown to become a market-leader; creating powerful, professional and accessible desktop 3D printers. With offices in the Netherlands, New York, and Boston, plus production facilities in Europe and the US, Ultimaker's team of over 300 employees continually strives to offer the highest-quality 3D printers, software, and materials on the market. Media Contact: Emily Adams (617) 779 1891 [email protected] SOURCE Ultimaker Related Links http://www.ultimaker.com BOCA RATON, Fla., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its drive to continually improve its Partner Program, Unify, the Atos brand for communications software and services, today announced new enhancements to its partner marketing platform, Digital Channel, that are designed to help partners optimize their digital marketing efforts with Unify. Available to all partners, Digital Channel now makes it easier and more intuitive for partners to execute strategic marketing initiatives from simple co-branded email to full digital campaigns to drive increased demand. The improved Digital Channel platform is almost completely automated, enabling partners to plan and launch marketing campaigns with just the click of a button. It has a more intuitive user interface and simplified navigation, so partners can quickly see new content and resources to execute email and digital campaigns that complement their individual outbound activities, helping them to increase their brand and social awareness. "Unify strives to make it as easy as possible for our partners to build demand and generate revenue with our solutions, and Digital Channel has been an important tool to provide content and marketing support to our partners," said Michelle Jones, Vice President of Channel Marketing for Unify. "With the enhancements we've made to Digital Channel, we are simplifying marketing activities and giving our partners even more choices in the types of campaigns they wish to execute to help build their businesses." To support partners' lead generation efforts, the enhancements to Digital Channel include a fully packaged and automated email campaign tool as well as simplified campaign scheduling with a multi-channel digital marketing approach, which helps partners to better engage with their customers and prospects. Additionally, it easily positions Unify's next generation collaboration solution, Circuit, on partner websites, making it even simpler for customers to start using Circuit by downloading Circuit licenses directly from the partners' websites. Digital Channel offers complete digital marketing campaign kits, as well as enhanced reporting tools with a clear and concise dashboard, so partners can quickly evaluate the success of individual campaigns. Plus, it offers automated alerts for new campaigns or content, so partners never miss the latest information. The new Digital Channel has begun its roll out to partners around the globe, to positive reviews. Fabio Conti, Digital Marketing Executive for NexusIP, commented: "I am browsing in the new digital channel portal. I love it! It's very intuitive and easy to use." Zoe Thomason, Marketing Manager at Datasharp UK added, "It looks fantastic; I'm excited to start using it." About Unify Unify is the Atos brand for communication and collaboration solutions. At the core of the Atos Digital Workplace portfolio, Unify technology enables organizations of all sizes to transform the way they collaborate, creating a more connected and productive workforce which can dramatically improve team performance, individual engagement and business efficiency. Unify products represent a strong heritage of technology innovation, reliability and flexibility. Their award-winning intuitive user experience can be delivered through almost any device and in any combination of cloud or on-premise deployment. Augmented by Atos' secure digital platforms, vertical solutions and transformation services, they set the global standard for a rich and reliable collaboration experience that empowers teams to deliver extraordinary results. About Atos Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with approximately 100,000 employees in 72 countries and annual revenue of around 12 billion. The European number one in Big Data, Cybersecurity, High Performance Computing and Digital Workplace, The Group provides Cloud services, Infrastructure & Data Management, Business & Platform solutions, as well as transactional services through Worldline, the European leader in the payment industry. With its cutting-edge technologies, digital expertise and industry knowledge, Atos supports the digital transformation of its clients across various business sectors: Defense, Financial Services, Health, Manufacturing, Media, Energy & Utilities, Public sector, Retail, Telecommunications and Transportation. The Group is the Worldwide Information Technology Partner for the Olympic & Paralympic Games and operates under the brands Atos, Atos Consulting, Atos Worldgrid, Bull, Canopy, Unify and Worldline. Atos SE (Societas Europaea) is listed on the CAC40 Paris stock index. SOURCE Unify Related Links http://www.unify.com/us URBANA, Ill., Oct.17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign is launching a new accelerated graduate program that addresses the global challenges of sustainable urban management. Designed for early- to mid-career professionals, the Master of Science in Sustainable Urban Management (MSSUM) offers students an integrative learning experience addressing the complex relationships between urbanization and sustainable development. The program gives students a chance to acquire the essential skills for managing change in urban areas and tackling the sustainability problems facing the 21st-century city. Cities are beacons of opportunity and advancement, but they also drive unsustainable lifestyles and practices that deplete resources and degrade natural systems. The MSSUM addresses the demand for urban management professionals who can understand and manage the challenges of accommodating growth and change in a way that balances the needs of economic development, environment protection and social inclusion. "Cities are where humans increasingly live in the 21st century. Globally, urban population growth is booming, and the worldwide need for professionals who can understand and manage cities has never been so high," said Professor Daniel Schneider, Department Head. The full-time program can be completed in one year. Its framework consists of core foundational coursework that provides hands-on experience addressing current challenges facing urban areas. In addition, students will pursue coursework and projects that focus on areas such as regional systems and informatics; energy and environment; and governance and community, all of which provide deep analysis of the range of subject-specific policy interventions and the technical tools needed for critical evaluation. "Through this intensified period of study, we expect a rich exchange of experiences and content, welcoming a variety of working professionals, both domestic and international, to discuss sustainable urban management challenges relevant to the entire world," said Professor Rob Olshansksy, former Department Head. The application deadline is March 15. The first cohort begins in Fall 2018. For more information about the MSSUM degree and admission requirements, contact Professor Dustin Allred at [email protected] or 217-333-6531. SOURCE University of Illinois BEAVERTON, Ore., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Tektronix, Inc., a leading worldwide provider of measurement solutions, today announced that the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has purchased three Keithley 4200A-SCS Parameter Analyzers and three 4200A-CVIV Multi-Switch Modules for a first-of-its-kind undergraduate nanofabrication lab intended to give students hands-on experience with micro- and nano-electronics. The 4200A-SCS is a modular, fully integrated parameter analyzer for performing electrical characterization of materials, semiconductor devices and processes. The 4200A-CVIV provides an error-proof method of switching between DC and AC measurements and moving AC measurements to any terminal of the test device. Illinois is in the process of setting up a nanofab lab at its ECE Building, a new 230,000 square foot facility with more than 20 lab spaces dedicated to giving students hands-on training in electronics and computing. The university selected the 4200A-SCS for the nanofab lab because it wanted equipment that students and new users can immediately use with minimal training. Recently introduced, the 4200A-SCS emphasizes usability with features such as: Guidance on measurements with embedded YouTube-like videos in Chinese, English, Japanese and Korean on how to set-up, perform and troubleshoot tests as well as application notes and webinars Over 450 ready-to-use, user-modifiable application tests and devices that jumpstart test plan development Visual test plan development and test sequencing tools An integrated confidence check that gives users confirmation when a probe has contacted wafer pads "The Keithley 4200A-SCS proved to offer the ideal combination of advanced parametric capabilities and usability," said Dane Sievers, an instructor and coordinator for the new lab. "In fact, the operation of the instrument is so intuitive and accessible that we were able to start using it even before we received training." Consisting of Source Measure Units for I-V characterization, Capacitance-Voltage module for AC impedance measurements, and an Ultra-fast Pulse Measure Unit that performs pulsed I-V, waveform capture, and transient I-V measurements, the 4200A-SCS provides the researcher or engineer with critical parameters needed for materials research, semiconductor device design, development or production. "We went to great lengths to make the 4200A-SCS exceptionally easy to set up and easy to learn even for users with no prior experience with a parameter analyzer," said Mike Flaherty, general manager, Keithley product line at Tektronix. "The 4200A-SCS's usability makes it ideal for teaching labs such as what Illinois is building as well as for applications such as semiconductor device research, device failure analysis and reliability testing where it is a shared resource among multiple users." 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, Inc. Related Links http://www.tektronix.com PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Varian (NYSE: VAR) today announced an 80-year-old male with head & neck cancer became the first patient in Europe to be treated on the Halcyon system at University Hospitals Leuven (UZ Leuven) in Belgium. Halcyon is an advanced cancer treatment system that is more comfortable for the patient while delivering ease-of-use for healthcare providers, accelerated installation timeframes, expedited commissioning, simplified training, and automated treatment. Halcyon simplifies and enhances virtually every aspect of image-guided volumetric intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and is designed to expand the availability of high-quality cancer care globally and help save the lives of millions more cancer patients. It is well suited to handle the majority of cancer patients, offering advanced treatments for lung, esophagus, brain, head & neck, and many other forms of cancer. "We selected the Halcyon system because of its potential to accelerate the treatment workflow and allow for a much closer connection between the patient and therapist," said professor Karin Haustermans, MD, chair of the department, UZ Leuven. "Having now completed our first treatments I can say that Halcyon lived up to its promise of a more efficient workflow and better integration of imaging and treatment, which resulted in a much faster overall treatment time." "We are very proud to have partnered with UZ Leuven on making Halcyon treatments available to patients in Europe just two months after the hospital ordered this new system," said Kolleen Kennedy, president of Varian's Oncology Systems business. "The treatments beginning at UZ Leuven are another important step in continuing our efforts of advancing cost-effective cancer care worldwide." For more information on Halcyon, visit www.varian.com/halcyon 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. Press Contact Mark Plungy Varian Medical Systems +1 (650) 424-5630 [email protected] SOURCE Varian Medical Systems Related Links http://www.varian.com VALLEY FORGE, Pa., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Vanguard recently published a new research paper that examines the importance of trust in the advisor-client relationship. The research reveals that while a predominant number of investors trust their current financial advisors (eight in ten give their advisors a high trust rating), nearly one-quarter had an experience that undermined their trust in their current or previous advisor. Authored by Vanguard's Center for Investor Research, Trust and Financial Advice introduces a three-part model that examines the functional, emotional, and ethical elements of trust: Functional trust is described as investors' confidence in their advisors' credentials and skills and in the day-to-day operation of their advisors' practices. Advisors can establish functional trust by presenting their industry qualifications, creating and executing financial plans, and being proactive with their client communications. is described as investors' confidence in their advisors' credentials and skills and in the day-to-day operation of their advisors' practices. Advisors can establish functional trust by presenting their industry qualifications, creating and executing financial plans, and being proactive with their client communications. Emotional trust is the intangible aspects of the relationship between the investor and financial advisor that bring about positive feelings or sensibilities in the investor. Examples of emotional trust are investors saying their advisor is "my advocate," "provides a sense of relief," and "makes me feel my portfolio is important." is the intangible aspects of the relationship between the investor and financial advisor that bring about positive feelings or sensibilities in the investor. Examples of emotional trust are investors saying their advisor is "my advocate," "provides a sense of relief," and "makes me feel my portfolio is important." Ethical trust involves advisor practices or behaviors that are consistent with socially set expectations of correct conduct. Advisors can instill ethical trust by removing conflicts of interest, charging reasonable compensation, and acting in the best interests of the client. "While we've inherently known that trust is vitally important to investors when working with advisors, we were able to uncover through our extensive research both the drivers of trust and practical ways advisors can build it," said Anna Madamba Ph.D, author and senior research analyst in the Center. The top two drivers of trust, according to the study, are "advocating for a client" and "acting in the client's best interest," though numerous other attributes are identified as having a significant impact on trust. The research also draws a connection between high trust levels and positive business outcomes for advisors, and provides recommendations for the global advisor community for proactively managing client relationships to build client trust and loyalty. Vanguard's Center for Investor Research is dedicated to the study of individual investors across all types and demographics, and augments Vanguard's mission to drive investor success through behavioral research and experimentation. This paper is a part of an ongoing, proprietary research series, Advised investor insights, that provides actionable insights on investor behavior. The first installment in the series, How investors select advisors, identifies five investor profiles you can use to connect with clients and highlights strategies for boosting client referrals. About Vanguard Vanguard is one of the world's largest investment management companies. As of September 30, 2017, Vanguard managed $4.7 trillion in global assets. The firm, headquartered in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, offers more than 370 funds to its more than 20 million investors worldwide. For more information, visit vanguard.com. SOURCE Vanguard Related Links http://www.vanguard.com OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- vAuto founder Dale Pollak hadn't planned on writing a fourth book. But circumstances in the retail automotive industry changed his thinking. "Our industry is confronting a challenged and uncertain future," Pollak says. "I felt like I had an obligation to bring voice to topics that too few in our industry want to talk about. My hope is that Like I See It spurs recognition that a prosperous and viable future for the car business will only arrive if we collectively begin the transformative work to shape this future today." Pollak's fourth book, Like I See It: Obstacles and Opportunities Shaping the Future of Retail Automotive, is officially available today on Amazon. The book's pre-order sales have earned it the No. 1 best-seller status in Amazon's automotive and transportation categories. In Like I See It, Pollak devotes chapters to margin compression, increased OEM control and financial reliance of their dealer partners, dealer network consolidation, technology disruption, vehicle production inefficiencies and consumer preferences for digital retailing. Like I See It has received positive reviews from dealers who read advance copies. ''Dale Pollak is uniquely qualified to address the pressing issues in auto retail," says Mike Maroone, CEO of Mike Maroone Automotive and former AutoNation president and COO. "His provocative presentation takes on the difficult environment dealers face with real-world solutions that combine technology, process, and drastic policy change." ''Being a dealer has never been more challenging. Dale speaks to that reality in Like I See It and not only confronts the uncomfortable truths but also does the more important work of providing solutions," says Steve Germain, president of The Germain Auto Group. More information on Like I See It and copies of the book are available on Amazon. About vAuto vAuto provides innovative technology, tools and business intelligence to thousands of dealerships across the United States and Canada, helping them compete more effectively and increase new/used vehicle sales volumes and profits. Founded in 2005, vAuto revolutionized dealers' used vehicle operations with the groundbreaking Provision suite of tools. Leveraging The Velocity Method of Management, pioneered by vAuto's visionary founder, Dale Pollak, the Provision suite guides used vehicle acquisition, appraisals, pricing, merchandising and more based on real-time, local market supply-and-demand data. In 2014, vAuto combined the Velocity method with the power of incentive management to create the Conquest new vehicle inventory management and pricing tool. In 2016, vAuto launched Stockwave to serve as the foundation for a suite of wholesale inventory acquisition solutions. Headquartered near Chicago, Illinois, vAuto is a Cox Automotive brand. About Cox Automotive Cox Automotive Inc. is transforming the way the world buys, sells and owns cars with industry-leading digital marketing, financial, retail and wholesale solutions for consumers, dealers, manufacturers and the overall automotive ecosystem worldwide. Committed to open choice and dedicated to strong partnerships, the Cox Automotive family includes Autotrader, Dealer.com, Dealertrack, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, NextGear Capital, vAuto, Xtime and a host of other brands. The global company has 32,000-plus team members in more than 200 locations and is partner to more than 40,000 auto dealers, as well as most major automobile manufacturers, while engaging U.S. consumer car buyers with the most recognized media brands in the industry. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., an Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion and approximately 60,000 employees. Cox Enterprises' other major operating subsidiaries include Cox Communications and Cox Media Group. For more information about Cox Automotive, visit www.coxautoinc.com. SOURCE vAuto WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Venture Global LNG, Inc. announces that it has raised additional capital of approximately $108.6 million, marking its seventh round of equity investment. This Reg. D private placement brings the company's aggregate funding total to $470 million. The transaction proceeds will fund Venture Global LNG's continued development activities for its proposed LNG export facilities in Louisiana. The company is developing both the 10 MTPA Calcasieu Pass facility on the Gulf of Mexico and the 20 MTPA Plaquemines LNG facility in Plaquemines Parish using a highly efficient, mid-scale liquefaction technology. In response to the capital raise, Co-CEO Bob Pender stated, "Following the recent execution of our binding 20-year Sales and Purchase Agreement ("SPA") with Edison (part of the EDF Group), as well as our previous binding 20-year SPA with Shell North America LNG, this private placement gives our buyers high confidence in our ability to deliver the lowest cost LNG from North America to the global market." Co-CEO Mike Sabel added, "Investors and LNG customers continue to recognize our innovative strategy and quality execution as we, along with our strategic partner GE Oil & Gas, LLC, part of Baker Hughes, a GE Company ("BHGE"), develop two of the leading LNG projects in North America." Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC assisted the company in connection with the private placement. About Venture Global LNG Venture Global LNG will be a long-term, low-cost producer of LNG from natural gas production basins in the U.S.A. Venture Global LNG's strategy is reinforced by BHGE's highly efficient and reliable suite of products. Venture Global is developing LNG export terminals at Calcasieu Pass and Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, totaling 30 MTPA of capacity. More can be found at www.venturegloballng.com SOURCE Venture Global LNG Related Links http://venturegloballng.com HONG KONG, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Private equity firm Virtua Partners has further expanded its team with new hires in the Phoenix and Hong Kong offices. Ernest Amponsah has joined the Quyp Development team in Arizona as a project manager. Sunny Huang and Janet Jiang have joined Virtua Capital Management LLC in Hong Kong as an associate and financial analyst. Ernest Amponsah brings two decades of land development and acquisition experience, with half of that time spent in the Arizona markets. His expertise is in acquisition analysis, due-diligence, civil engineering, and entitlements. Ernest earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, and a Master of Business in Real Estate Finance and Investment from DePaul University. Sunny Huang has a comprehensive research and financial background in private equity with several Chinese firms. Her investment management skills have produced extensive cost reductions and income growth across several private equity divisions. Sunny has a Bachelor of Economics from Zhejiang University, and a Master of Science in Investment Management from the Hong Kong University of Science & Technology. Janet Jiang has worked with Shanghai Sunterra Capital Management Co. Ltd. as an investment analyst. She brings an extensive knowledge of research, finance, and investment strategies from her positions within some of China's top management firms. Janet holds a Bachelor of Economics from Zhejiang University, and a Master of Finance from the University of Hong Kong. "We are delighted to expand our team with these talented individuals," said Quinn Palomino. "Recruiting strong team members is critical to the continued growth of Virtua Partners." About Virtua Partners: Virtua Partners is a private equity firm specializing in commercial real estate. Virtua sponsors a variety of funds and commercial real estate projects across the country. Investment products include fixed income, growth to income, growth, and aggressive growth. Through its affiliates, Virtua provides debt and equity origination, asset and property management, workout consulting, development, and fund management. Please visit http://www.virtuapartners.com to learn more about our investor services. Media Contact: Derek Uldricks 619.764.9633 SOURCE Virtua Partners Related Links http://www.virtuapartners.com "1-800Accountant is one of those unique companies that is leveraging great technology but has never wavered in our belief that accounting is a unique profession and one that is very personal. It therefore requires a human component. That is why the key differentiator in all our products is that they come with an accountant," said Brendon Pack, Chief Revenue Officer. The St. Petersburg/Tampa metro area is quickly growing and boasts a strong economic base of knowledgeable workers. Rated as one of the "Best Places to Live in America" by U.S. News & World Report, the area is home to more than 3 million people. All of this adds up to an ideal place to live and play for top-notch professionals the very people who make 1-800Accountant a great place to work. "Most accounting firms haven't changed. They are still using old technology. They haven't adapted to the changing world. We are redefining what has traditionally been a fragmented industry. 1-800Accountant is on the leading edge of ushering in this paradigm shift for the accounting and tax industry," said Pack. The ability to serve clients virtually greatly reduces the cost of accounting services, making high-quality accountants readily available at affordable rates for anyone with internet access. St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and 1-800Accountant CEO Michael Savage, along with new employees, attended a kickoff event on October 12, 2017 to celebrate the new office opening. The office has been open since late August and is already assisting small-business owners and entrepreneurs with all their tax and accounting needs. About 1-800Accountant With offices in New York and Florida, 1-800Accountant is a nationwide virtual accounting firm that combines the convenience of technology with proactive, year-round support from a team of experienced accounting professionals. 1-800Accountant is reimagining the way small-businesses handle what for many is among their most important and sensitive business activities. Their service seamlessly combines the speed and convenience of mobile and desktop technology with real-life support from a team of accountants, certified public accountants, enrolled agents, and bookkeepers. No matter your industry, you can rest easy knowing that you'll be provided industry-specific, year-round assistance while they handle all the heavy lifting - tax advisory and tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, audit support, and more. With experts in all 50 states and every industry, the team at 1-800Accountant has unparalleled experience with year-round, mobile-friendly accounting assistance. To learn more, please visit: https://1800accountant.com. CONTACT: Brendon Pack PH: 646-780-1860 Email: [email protected] SOURCE 1-800Accountant Related Links https://1800accountant.com LOS ANGELES, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Walzer Melcher is pleased to announce that prestigious legal ranking service Chambers and Partners Family Law sector ranked Walzer Melcher in Band 2 for its 2017 High Net Worth guide. Chambers interviews attorneys in the region to determine rankings. One reviewer said about Walzer Melcher, "I would give them nothing short of a glowing recommendation. They're organized, they're fighting the right fight, they don't over litigate a case, they don't under litigate a case and their written work is always spot-on. That whole firm is a good firm. They do really, really good work." Chambers and Partners annually provides nationwide rankings of law firms based on painstaking research over a six-month period. Unlike other legal rating agencies, Chambers and Partners focuses largely on attorney feedback, results and overall impressions in ranking law firms. "This is quite an honor," says Walzer Melcher Founding Partner Peter M. Walzer, dubbed the "pre-nup guru" by Chambers and Partners. The ranking in Chambers and Partners reflects the high quality of work provided firm-wide, according to Partner Christopher Melcher. "We have a really talented team in place and our attorneys and staff are incredibly dedicated to their craft and most importantly, toward advising our clients," Melcher said. Walzer Melcher has handled some of the largest divorce cases in California and represents actors, athletes, entrepreneurs, executives and individuals. The firm handles complex litigation at the trial and appellate court levels. In addition to settling and litigating divorces when necessary, the firm advises clients on premarital, postmarital and separation agreements, custody issues and other family matters involving cross-state and international border considerations. Founded in 1982, Walzer Melcher has office in Woodland Hills and Santa Monica. The boutique law firm has four partners and four associates. The typical client of Walzer Melcher LLP is a business owner, executive, professional, athlete, or trust fund beneficiary going through a complex divorce in Los Angeles or Ventura counties. We represent clients who are getting a divorce and who need specialized personal legal assistance. We are also known for our expertise in premarital agreements (prenuptial agreements), postmarital agreements, and cohabitation agreements for clients who want protection from California community property and spousal support laws. We also handle appeals of California family law judgments. Media contact: Olivier Gibbons, Esq. Phone: 212-300-5270 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Walzer Melcher LLP DALLAS, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The much- publicized WaterToken.io is scheduled for a firm release date of Oct. 25, 2017, and will operate under a network of devices that will clean water with a revolutionary chemical-free technology. The IoT (Internet of Things) devices will work in conjunction with the Genesis Research & Technology Group System which is scalable and portable. The Water Token merges clean water technology with the cryptocurrency and blockchain models. Darren McVean, CEO of MVP Asia Pacific states, "MVP has developed the IoT and blockchain platform for Genesis Research & Technology Group with an in-house electrical team that has worked closely with the Genesis RT&G technology department to test and simulate the extensive water readings from the Genesis System." The WaterToken.io represents the process that relies on three patented, licensed purification methods: ultrafiltration, coagulation, and ozone (O3) generation. Texas A&M University has also tested the water samples so that a third-party could conclusively back up the IoT for Genesis Research & Technology Group. As it pertains to the oil and gas industry, raw frac flowback water was injected into the Genesis System with amazing results. Total petroleum hydrocarbons were reduced by 99 percent, while metals, aluminum, antimony, arsenic, and selenium were reduced below detection limits. "The fact that water can be cleaned chemical-free and reused over and over is a breakthrough in the oil and gas market," says Jeff Soward, Chief Technology Officer of Genesis Research & Technology Group. Mr. Soward goes on to say, "To produce one barrel of oil can take up to ten barrels of water; which under the antiquated system used industry-wide, that toxic water is trucked and dumped into a disposal site. The Genesis System cleans the water on the actual drilling location and with green chemical-free technology the water is reused over and over again at one-tenth of the cost. This is a game-changer." The Genesis Water Token solves the serious issue of trust and verification of environmental monitoring with the use of the blockchain. Furthermore, Genesis Research & Technology Group will store the records of the system to the blockchain so that frack water results are identified in various parts of the world. The WaterToken.io white paper gives a roadmap as to the system and how it plans to use the cryptocurrency in expansion throughout the world. "Genesis Research & Technology Group has produced a scalable system that will work in conjunction with a scalable, secure IoT solution that is a win for the blockchain," says Michael Lagow CAO of Genesis Research & Technology Group. About Genesis Research and Technology Group: Genesis Research and Technology Group is a U.S.-based company that has developed a patented, state-of-the-art technology that provides clean reusable water for the world's population. The Company exploits its CHEMICAL-FREE technology as its efforts are being recognized by several leading government agencies developing and implementing Green technologies to protect and preserve our Earth's resources. Genesis Research and Technology Group provides custom-built state-of-the-art water treatment technologies for all types of water. Years of research and development go into perfecting this technology that allows Genesis to offer its clients a sole source, reusable water filtering and cleansing technology that is totally chemical-free. For more information: watertoken.io Media Contact: Patricia Almand Phone: 855-8100UMG Email: [email protected] SOURCE Genesis Research & Technology Group Related Links http://watertoken.io "WorkWave is proud to be a leading New Jersey technology company. Recognition by the NJ Tech Council validates our strategy and investment decisions over the past several years," said Chris Sullens, CEO of WorkWave. "The end-to-end platform we have built for clients in the field service and last mile logistics industries is unique and provides them with the tools they need to take their business to the next level. We look forward to continuing our quest to redefine the way our clients operate through our suite of cutting-edge solutions." The 21st Anniversary Awards Celebration will take place on November 16th at The Palace at Somerset Park. During the award celebration, the Tech Council will recognize and celebrate the state and region's technology and life sciences companies and their leaders for their business accomplishments in leadership, innovation and collaboration. To learn more about WorkWave, visit workwave.com. About WorkWave WorkWave is dedicated to simplifying the complexity of running field service and other fleet-based businesses, large or small - a $45+ billion market worldwide. The company's suite of solutions, which include PestPac, WorkWave Service, ServiceCEO, WorkWave Route Manager, WorkWave GPS, GPS Heroes and ContactUs, allow WorkWave clients to easily attribute and automate sales and marketing activities, improve their back office efficiency and increase their visibility into field operations through a single, easy to use interface. WorkWave's platform provides its 8,000+ clients an unprecedented level of business insight and information, enabling them to increase efficiency, increase revenue and provide a 5-Star customer experience. Founded in 1984, WorkWave has been recognized with multiple awards for its outstanding growth and culture, including the Inc. 5000, SaaS Award, and Best Place to Work by NJBiz & Inc. Magazine. For more information, visit www.workwave.com. About NJ Tech Council The New Jersey Technology Council (NJTC) provides business support, networking opportunities, information, advocacy, and recognition of technology companies and their leaders. Founded in 1996, NJTC's member companies work together to support their own enterprises while advancing New Jersey's status as a leading technology center in the United States. The NJTC offers its member companies access to networking, financing resources, expertise and more. A private, not-for-profit membership organization, the NJTC fosters and grows a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and nurtures a community where great ideas take flight. For more information, visit www.njtc.org. Contact Danielle Panichi Email [email protected] Phone 800-792-6067 Website https://www.workwave.com SOURCE WorkWave Related Links http://workwave.com LONDON, Oct. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Yacht Charter Market: Overview Yachts are motor-driven or sail-driven vessels that are used for primarily for recreational purposes. Yachts available for chartering can be privately owned or can be owned by the companies that lend yachts for chartering. Generally, yachts are big enough to contain a cabin. They can be multihulled or monohulled vessels. Yacht charter is basically renting a yacht for recreation. Yacht owners usually charter their yachts when these are not being used by them. Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5143251 There is a basic difference between a boat and a yacht, the length and expense of the vessels. However, the primary difference is that a boat is essentially a watercraft used for residential, commercial, or recreational purposes whereas a yacht is only associated with recreation and luxury. This report on the global yacht charter market highpoints the present scenario of the market coupled with expected growth of the global yacht charter market during the forecast period. Various social, political, technological and economic factors have been analyzed which are likely to impact the demand of yacht charter in the coming years. An exhaustive study of the market dynamics i.e. global market drivers, restraints and opportunities has been included under the purview of the report. Global Yacht Charter Market: Segmentation The global yacht charter market has been segmented on the basis of yacht type into sailing yachts, motor yachts and catamarans yachts. These types are further divided into classic yachts, open yachts and others. Sailing yacht accounted for a maximum share in the global yacht charter market. However, motor yachts are likely to grow at a significant pace owing to many reasons including high occupancy space, ease of use, and availability. On the other hand, open yachts are likely to increase their market share in the coming years. Global Yacht Charter Market: Drivers and Trends Travelling has become one of the key trends in the recent times. Consumers looking for holidaying nowadays choose their destinations very wisely. As the number of destinations for yacht chartering is increasing at a steady pace, so is the demand for yacht chartering. As consumer preference towards yacht chartering is rising, there is an increasing popularity of charter destinations especially among the young population. Moreover, the growing inclination of corporate consumers for yacht chartering is also on the rise. As businesses and corporate houses look for destinations that are serene and peaceful, yet happening, therefore, they prefer yacht chartering for spending their vacations. Additionally, owing to a shift in lifestyle, sailing destinations have also been observed to break off from the traditional Caribbean and Mediterranean waters to less familiar destinations of Asia Pacific, Middle East and Antarctic. Thus, growing inclination of consumers to explore new destinations and rising number of destinations globally is likely to consequently increase the number of yachts available for charter, thereby boosting the overall yacht charter market. Global Yacht Charter Market: Competitive Analysis Additionally, the key players that are operating the yacht charter market have been thoroughly profiled and the competitive landscape is comprehensive of these companies' recent developments associated to yacht charters and the divergent business strategies followed by them. To analyze their market positioning further, SWOT analysis for each of the players has been provided. Furthermore, the report includes market attractiveness analysis of the segmentation, by yacht size, for offering a deep insight into the major yacht size that is governing the global yacht charter market. Some of the major players operating in the global yacht charter market include Yachtico, Inc. (U.S.), Zizooboats GmbH (Germany), Boat International Media Ltd.(U.K.) and Charterworld Limited (U.K.). Other players operating in the global market are Burgess (U.K.), Incrediblue Limited (U.K.), Boatbound Inc. (U.S.), Martello Yachting and Company (China), Northrop & Johnson (U.S.), Fairline Yachts Ltd. (U.K.), SuperYacht Logistics (Japan), Fraser Yachts (U.S.) and West Coast Marine Yacht Services Pvt. Ltd. (India) among others. The global yacht charter market has been segmented into: Yacht Charter Market, by Yacht Type Sailing Yachts Classic Yachts Open Yachts Others Motor Yachts Classic Yachts Open Yachts Others Catamaran Yachts Classic Yachts Open Yachts Others Yacht Charter Market, by Yacht Size Small Medium Large Yacht Charter Market, by Consumer Type Corporate Retail Others Yacht Charter Market, by Geography: The market is broadly segmented on the basis of geography into: North America U.S. Rest of North America Europe U.K. Croatia Greece France Spain Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China Japan Thailand Malaysia Australia Rest of Asia Pacific Middle East and Africa Qatar Dubai Oman Africa Rest of Middle East and Africa Latin America Brazil Rest of Latin America Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/5143251 About Reportbuyer Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers https://www.reportbuyer.com For more information: Sarah Smith Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 208 816 85 48 Website: www.reportbuyer.com SOURCE ReportBuyer Related Links http://www.reportbuyer.com SHANGHAI, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE: ZTO) ("ZTO" or the "Company"), a leading express delivery company in China, today announced that it has joined a seven-member consortium (the "Consortium") to establish a logistics insurer. In addition to ZTO, the consortium will consist of STO Express Co. Ltd., Yunda Holding Co. Ltd., Guangzhou Baogong International Freight Agency, Jiangxi Financial Holding Group, Shandong Jingjin Holding Group, and Shanghai YTO Jiaolong Investment Development (Group) Ltd. The logistics insurer is expected to have registered capital of approximately RMB1 billion. ZTO plans to invest approximately RMB160 million and take a 16% stake in the insurer. China's express delivery industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years but traditional insurance providers do not provide products specifically tailored to cover basic risks in the logistics sector. ZTO is jointly establishing the logistics insurer with some of its peers in the express delivery industry to fill in the gaps created by traditional insurance providers. The logistics insurer is expected to offer a wide variety of customized products including transportation, property, vehicles, liability and accident insurance. The establishment of the logistics insurer is still in the preliminary stages and is subject to the approval from China's insurance regulator and the entering into of definitive transaction documents. About ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. is a leading express delivery company in China and one of the largest express delivery companies globally, in terms of total parcel volume in 2015, according to the iResearch Report. ZTO provides express delivery service as well as other value-added logistics services through its extensive and reliable nationwide network coverage in China. ZTO operates a highly scalable network partner model, which the Company believes is best suited to support the significant growth of e-commerce in China. The Company leverages its network partners to provide pickup and last-mile delivery services, while controlling the mission-critical line-haul transportation and sorting network within the express delivery service value chain. For more information, please visit http://zto.investorroom.com. Safe Harbor Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "confidence" and similar statements. ZTO may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports filed or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual reports to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about ZTO's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in our annual report on Form 20-F and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and ZTO undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law. For investor and media inquiries, please contact: ZTO Ms. Sophie Li Investor Relations Department E-mail: [email protected] Christensen In China Mr. Christian Arnell Phone: +86-10- 5900-1548 E-mail: [email protected] In US Mr. Tip Fleming Phone: +1-917-412-3333 Email: [email protected] SOURCE ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. Truphone has signed a new lease agreement in Warsaw. The company will occupy 450 sq m in the Warsaw Financial Centre. Knight Frank acted on behalf of the tenant in the leasing process. Warsaw Financial Centre, located at the corner of the Emilii Plater and Swietokrzyska streets, is one of [] Zeiss will invest over 300 million in a new integrated high-tech site. The worlds technology leader in the optics and optoelectronics industries unveiled its plan today in Jena. In line with this plan, Zeiss will bring together its existing sites in Jena by 2023. To do this, Zeiss will acquire Photos: Jurgen Scheere/Zeiss [] Theres only one appropriate, spirit-of-freedom response to the Trump tweet on Wednesday asking when its appropriate for the government to punish NBC News for a story the president didnt like: Never. And yes, the repetition of appropriate is for emphasis. Trump is disputing an NBC report earlier in the day based on interviews with three officials in the room at the time that during a July meeting Trump had proposed a massive increase in the countrys nuclear arsenal, which critics immediately pounced on as evidence he was naive and ignorant of the cost, policy and treaty barriers to such an increase. With all of the Fake News coming out of NBC and the Networks, at what point is it appropriate to challenge their License? Bad for country! the president tweeted. No whats bad for the country is for a president to threaten a news organization over a story that offended him and about which it should be noted, the White House did not offer evidence or witnesses to discredit. NBC, to its credit, also reported that no action was taken on Trumps alleged proposal to increase by tenfold the aging U.S. nuclear arsenal of some 7,000 warheads. Trump supporters said it was likely he was only raising a provocative idea to prompt responses from his military advisers which they said is in line with his combative management style. True or disputed, style or substance, theres no room in any presidents vocabulary for words that would try to put a news outlet out of business for a report. Criticize, call out or condemn all fair game, and all tactics that Trump has used frequently to counter news accounts he does not like, even during his campaign and his previous careers in reality TV and real estate. So far, Trumps most heated attacks on journalists or news operations have been more hot air than real fire. But raising the idea of a direct challenge on news networks licenses crosses the line from complaint to a threat of government censorship. Its not that Trump has no effective means to get his version of things to the public. His tweets regularly reach millions of people, and he has the bully pulpit of his office, which means he can grab headlines by simply deciding to do so. The tweet on challenging licenses is simply a step too far for the leader of a democratic nation, whether he or one of his surrogates takes on the task. Not that he is the first president to consider doing so: Richard Nixon, deep in the pit of the Watergate scandal, discussed going after the licenses of a station owned by the Washington Post Co. and Newsweek because of the Posts aggressive reporting. Two challenges were later mounted by individuals close to Nixon, but not directly tied to the White House, according to the Post in a story published after Trumps Wednesday tweet. But, that story noted, The difference here is that Nixon talked about the scheme only privately. Weve been down this road before, and rejected the idea of a subservient press beholden to government at any level. In 1798, eight years after adopting the Bill of Rights (which includes the First Amendment) Congress passed the Sedition Act, making it a crime to criticize the president or Congress. Some 20 editors were jailed, but the nation recoiled at the crackdown on free speech and the press, even re-electing one editor, Matthew Lyon of Vermont, to Congress while he was behind bars. The law faded from the books in 1801, and some historians and First Amendment advocates say the experience inoculated the country from such overt attempts to muzzle what the nations founders protected as the watchdog on government. George Washington is said to have decided against seeking another term because of harsh press criticism, and John Adams suffered from insults ranging from balding head royalist to words we hesitate to use publicly today. Lincoln briefly jailed so-called Copperhead editors whom he saw as Confederate sympathizers but the action is considered a stain on the record of the Great Emancipator, even though he said at the time it was because the editors were encouraging riots and attacks on Union troops. Going after the business and government licenses of news operations in order to silence critics would echo the strong-arm tactics of the worst dictatorial nations today, something that we see in nations such as Turkey and Eritrea. Joel Simon, head of the worldwide press freedom group Committee to Protect Journalists, coined a word several years ago to describe elected leaders who eschewed jailing or murdering journalists they disliked: a Democrator. Trump has every right to respond to critics and stories he thinks are unfair, inaccurate or insulting. But the licenses tweet is not merely unpresidential, its undemocratic and unpatriotic. Weve made it as a nation since 1776 without the official licensing of printers and publications that was in place under the English king, so lets not start now. A suggestion to Trump: Feeling frustrated and demeaned? Why not just tweet about it? Its taken time for the book industry to recover from the 2008 Great Recession, but at this year's Mountains & Plains Independent Booksellers Association Fall Discovery Show, those struggles were in the rearview mirror. Total attendance at the show, held October 12-14 at the Renaissance Denver Stapleton Hotel, hit 601. The turnout was the largest one recorded since executive director Laura Burnett began running the show in 2011. Of the over 600 attendees, 350 were booksellers, which is nearly double the number that attended the event in 2015. Among the new attendees this year were Annette Avery, who opened Bright Side Bookshop in Flagstaff, Ariz., in February; Chelsea Green and her sister, Jessica Tresp, who are in the midst of a $50,000 Indiegogo campaign to open Bibliobar in North Dallas, Tex.; and Jessie Smith, who will take over the Book Haven in Salida, Colo., in March. A return to submitting orders to all but the largest houses was another sign of post-recession strength. Julie Shimada, childrens book buyer at Marias Bookshop in Durango, Colo., was one of a number of booksellers who placed orders, in her case nearly 20. Orders dont have to be dead, Derek Lawrence, head of Imprint Group, said. When the regionals changed to discovery shows, the emphasis moved to getting galleys. In the last few years, I see it going back, the reaction to the recession. The chances to interact with authors has long been a draw of MPIBAand this year was no exception. Im interested in the authors, Joanne Walker Matzenbacher of Bookworks in Albuquerque, N.M., said. For her, the kick-off event, a childrens breakfast with Peter Sis (Robinson, Scholastic), Jessica Brody (The Chaos of Standing Still, Simon Pulse), and Shannon and Dean Hale (The Princess in Black and the Mysterious Playdate, Candlewick), was fabulous. A number of booksellers wiped away tears during the Hales impassioned speech about why books for boys and girls should not be stereotyped. Reading helps us learn empathy," Shannon Hale said. "If were shielding boys [from books featuring girls], theyre not learning about half the human race. MPIBA included a full day of education with how-to sessions on store branding and back-office operations. Other sessions covered book fairs (and how to use them to your financial advantage) and working publishers on promotional efforts (beyond coop). As with all the regionals, MPIBA hosted a session created by the ABA to encourage booksellers to improve their bottom line. At the talk, ABA senior program officer Joy Dallanegra-Sanger and board member Valerie Koehler, owner of Blue Willow Bookshop in Houston, presented tips on how indies can sell more backlist. In the end, it was the tone of the show that excited publishers and booksellers. The energy at this show is just nurturing, Kirsten Johanna Allen, publisher and editorial director of Torrey House Press in Salt Lake City, said. Theres so much about bookselling and publishing thats challenging. Its a welcome boost. When librarians travel, we always carry at least two books: the book we are currently reading and at least one backup (in case we dont like the first book, or like it so much that we finish it too quickly). And we almost always seek out a local library, bookstore, or other sort of literary haunt. When I travel, I especially love to pop into bookstores to observe the retail marketplace for books. What does the shops proprietor do to handsell? How are the displays working to entice customers? A trip to Portugal early this summer led me to the famous Livraria Lello Bookshop in Porto. Its stunning interior alone makes it worth a visit for any bibliophile. But it has developed quite a following for another reason: its known to have inspired the library at Hogwarts, that magical spot where Harry Potter fans have surely dwelled in their own imaginations. J.K. Rowling lived in Porto teaching English in the 1990s and is said to have been a regular at the bookstore. Today, people line up well before the store opens for the day, and Livraria Lello charges an entrance fee for the experience of roaming among its carved wooden bookcases and wandering up the steep staircase, although if a visitor makes a purchase the fee is deducted from the price. Attaching a renowned celebrity writer to the store and charging an entrance fee is certainly one way to insure the sustainability of a bookstore in todays market. Of course, few bookstores have that advantage. The Bookworm One of my favorite travel stops is the Bookworm Bookshop & Cafe in the small town of Thurles in County Tipperary, Ireland. Opened in 1993 by owner John Butler, the Bookworm started its life in a tiny space as a risky proposition. First, I was out of a job! says Butler, when asked why he decided to open a bookshop. Not necessarily a good reason to open a bookshop, but I felt I could do something myself, as the jobs market at the time was fairly bleak. Secondly, and more important from the bookstore point of view, there was no bookstore in Thurles at the time. Butler had no experience in the book business when he opened the storejust a love of books and reading. There were always books at home, he says, and all the family were good readers. He also knew a bit about retail from his family background. So I managed to find a premises, and I sourced all the shelving I needed from a bookstore in University College Cork, which was closing. My capital outlay was not huge, so I knew if it didnt work out I wouldnt be in huge debt. Luckily, things have worked out so far. Next year will mark the stores 25th anniversary. But unlike the Livraria Lello Bookshop in Porto, which can count on a line of tourists, the greatest challenge for Butlerlike many independent booksellersis getting people in the door. The book trade has changed beyond recognition over the past decade, with Amazon, e-books, smartphones, tablets, and social media fundamentally changing the way people learn about new books, make their buying decisions, and subsequently purchase, he says. And then of course, there was the recession. Concerned about survival during the economic downturn a few years back, Butler says he began to rethink the overall customer experience at the Bookworm: The cafe was the first major addition to the shop. We had some space to the rear with a nice skylight, so we decided to give it a shot. Once again, he was able to source the necessary equipment and furniture inexpensively, from a cafe in Cork that was closing, and he started serving coffee with books at the end of 2009. Over the years, a music area has also grown in the shop. It started with smaller items like guitar strings, tin whistles, and bodhrans and gradually developed and expanded to include guitars, banjos, and fiddles, Butler explains. Music is very strong locally, particularly in the schools, so there is a market for what we stock. Today, as part of its programming calendar, the shop hosts guitar and tin whistle lessons, small gigs by bands, and weekly craft circles and Irish-language coffee gatherings, in addition to book launches and author events. Ireland has always had a strong relationship with its writers and readers, and one way the Irish express the value they place on books and reading is by charging zero VAT (value-added tax) on books. (The VAT in Ireland is about 23%.) And even though the European Union has attempted to influence Ireland to place VAT on books, the Irish Booksellers Association has taken a very strong stance against the idea. For booksellers like Butler, the store is a labor of love, and it is a valued part of the community in Thurles. But concern about the future of his business remains. The retail scene, especially in small towns like ours, is going to change further over the next few years, Butler says. And it will be all about the shopping experience. What Can We Learn? I happen to love the Bookworm. And thats because, aside from the fact that its the best cup of coffee in Thurles, over the 20-plus years I have been visiting the store, Butler has taken the time to know me. He even created for me the ultimate bookcart. You see, my husband is a native Irishman. And Butler helped me to better understand the Irish by introducing me to writers such as Colm Toibin, and even shipping me a copy of Down All the Days, a novel by Christy Brown (better known for his autobiography, My Left Foot). For me, the Bookworm has made it easy to bring Irish culture back home. There were always fairy tales for our kids and songbooks for my husband. But it is the whole experience that stays with me. The fact that Butler really took the time to understand me as a reader, and pays attention every time I visit, is what keeps me coming back and spending money in the store. And his suggestions have been spot-on: he introduced me to Ian MacEwans Atonement and Isabel Allendes The House of the Spirits, which rank high among my favorite books. My experiences visiting the Bookworm year after year have also informed my thinking about the library experience. Library professionals must recognize that visits to the library need to be more than transactional. Like a visit to the Bookworm, a visit to the library should be a memorable experience. And that only happens when we listen to our customers, like Butler does his, and engage in authentic conversation about reading, listening, and viewing. Sari Feldman is executive director of the Cuyahoga County Public Library in Cleveland, Ohioone of the nations largest and highest-rated public library systemsand a former president of both the Public Library Association (20092010) and the American Library Association (20152016). Many scholars studying the civil war in Syria have declared Hezbollah, the Lebanese Shi'ite militant group sponsored by Iran, one of the few winners in the conflict. But for all the praise enjoyed by the Party of God, much of the analysis has failed to highlight how participating in the war has hurt Hezbollah. In many ways, Hezbollah has overextended its organization, its brand and reputation have been sullied and it has ceded the autonomy it is so notorious for protecting. As a result of its role in the Syrian civil war, Hezbollah faces real-world blowbackserious negative consequences. Hezbollah militants have been involved in some of the most serious skirmishes in the nearly six-year conflict in Syria, including the May 2015 battles in the Qalamoun region near the border with Lebanon. The fighting has been taxing on Hezbollah as an organization, which has been asked to do some heavy lifting to make up for shortcomings of the inferior military forces of Syria's Assad regime. The body count is high. Hezbollah has lost between 1,700 and 1,800 fighters, including many seasoned veterans. In comparison, Hezbollah lost 1,200 fighters during its 18-year conflict with Israel between the years 1982 and 2000. To replenish its ranks, the group has been forced to recruit younger and less qualified fighters, making Hezbollah seem desperate. In addition to facing significant manpower issues, the organization's image has suffered drastically. Long known as a vanguard of the downtrodden, Hezbollah touts itself as a force to defend the oppressed. But in Syria, it sends its fighters to the front lines to defend an odious regime that has repeatedly used chemical weapons against its own civilian population. Placing itself in the midst of an intensely sectarian conflict, it has also squandered the political capital it once enjoyed across the Arab world since 2006, following its 33-day war with Israel. The group has been criticized for its seeming hypocrisy. It vocally supported Arab Spring uprisings across the Middle East and North Africa, yet still provides unflinching support for the vile dictatorship in Syria. Back home in Lebanon, its supporters are increasingly questioning the unending procession of coffins coming back to Beirut, as Hezbollah fights to defend an ally in another country. The group even recently brokered a deal to help fleeing Islamic State (ISIS) fighters withdraw from an area near the Lebanon-Syria border that had come under siege. Yet another byproduct of Hezbollah's role in Syria has been a loss of autonomy. Hezbollah has always been correctly depicted as a proxy of Iran, but this characterization has reached new levels, with the group being labeled a stooge of the Assad regime and a puppet of the mullahs in Tehran. Moreover, since Hezbollah's raison d'etre has always been to fight Israel, not other Arabs (even if they are Sunnis), Syria has distracted Hezbollah from what is allegedly its top priority. Its dependence on Iran has deepened during the course of the Syria conflict, but if and when the war comes to an end, it remains unclear what, if anything, Hezbollah might gain. Any political settlement will likely be hashed out among the array of powerful nation-states involvedRussia, the United States, Turkey, Iran and Saudi Arabiawith few tangible benefits available to the array of militant groups currently active in Syria. Another complication regarding Hezbollah's role in Syria is the real-world blowback the group has already experienced and may continue to reap in the near future. Shi'ites in Lebanon have been attacked several times by suicide bombers dispatched from Syria. In July 2013, a car bombing in the Bir al-Abed suburb of Beirut and another attack nearby the following month in the Ruwais neighborhood killed dozens and wounded scores more. Hezbollah's relationships with regional power brokers, especially Saudi Arabia, have also suffered. In many ways, Hezbollah has been caught up in the whirlwind of the widening rift and growing proxy conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Hezbollah has also voiced its displeasure with the treatment of Houthis, predominantly Shi'ite rebels fighting in Yemen, and Shi'ites in both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia's eastern provinces. The domestic backlash has been palpable as well. Hezbollah has no shortage of critics in Lebanon, especially among the Sunni population, which accuses Hezbollah of risking Lebanon's security and economy to serve the needs of its patrons in Tehran and Damascus. Hezbollah's all in approach to Syria comes with plenty of baggage. While Hezbollah has benefited in some ways from fighting in Syria, including gaining valuable combat experience fighting alongside Russian and Iranian forces, its all in approach to Syria comes with plenty of baggage. This may be especially true if Assad is ousted from power, a scenario that may be unlikely but would deal the Party of God a devastating blow that could take it years to recover from. On balance, the end result of the conflict in Syria may be a war-weary and weakened Hezbollah that needs to reform its image throughout the Arab and Islamic world, while working to increase military readiness in an ever-dangerous neighborhood. Hezbollah has gained valuable combat experience in Syria, but the cost of that experience may not outweigh the losses in troops, the damage to its image and the need to cede some of its autonomy to Iran and the Assad regime. The longer the war drags on, the more apparent these losses will become. Colin Clarke is a political scientist at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation and an associate fellow at the International Centre for Counter Terrorism-The Hague. This commentary originally appeared on The Jerusalem Post on October 15, 2017. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis. Researchers at RAND made a surprising discovery as they sifted through millions of Arabic tweets. For all its vaunted social-media savvy, the Islamic State was losing the war of words on Twitter. Its opponents outnumbered its supporters six to one. They were calling the group and its fighters the dogs of fire. The report last year received widespread attention. What got less notice was how the researchers did it. A team at RAND had built a computer program that could scan millions of lines of text and identify what people were talking about, how they fit into communities, and how they saw the world. The program, known as RAND-Lex, has since shed light on how al-Qa'ida affiliates communicate, how Russian internet trolls operate, and how the American public thinks about health. It has helped carry an old lesson of linguistics into the digital age: How people speak speaks volumes about themeven when it's 140 characters at a time. A Holistic Approach to Text Analytics Bill Marcellino once spent six months with a company of Marines, slogging through obstacle courses and gutting out 15-mile hikes, just to understand how they talk. He came to RAND in 2010 as a social and behavioral scientist, where he found himself sharing an office with a computer scientist named Zev Winkelman. Winkelman had left a job in the financial industry after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks to work on big-data approaches to national security. Photo by Dori Gordon Walker/RAND Corporation They soon realized they were working on the same kinds of puzzles, just from different perspectives. Marcellino was using what he knew about the big picture of language to understand what was unique or telling about individual pieces of text. Winkelman was looking at text, toobut he was using computers to identify the distinct pieces first, and then work back to the bigger picture. We realized we could bring together social science and computer science to make meaning out of huge data sets of text, Winkelman says. We could build something more holistic, something that people could use, a center of gravity for text analytics. Distinguishing ISIS Supporters and Opponents on Twitter Marcellino and Winkelman started coming in early and staying late to turn their ideas into computer code. Their first version, RAND-Lex 1.0, could scroll through millions of lines of text and compare them against a linguistic baseline. It was looking for surpriseswords or phrases that appeared more often than expected, statistical outliers. It might flag the words single-payer, preexisting, and Obamacare in a transcript for a health-care debate, for examplenot necessarily the most frequent words, but the most distinct. ISIS opponents preferred to belittle the group by abbreviating its name in Arabic to Daesh. That's how researchers at RAND were able to get an unprecedented look at the online messaging battle between ISIS supporters and opponents. They found that supporters almost always referred to the group by its full name, the Islamic State. Opponents preferred to belittle the group by abbreviating its name in Arabic to Daesh. But when the researchers fed only those Daesh tweets into RAND-Lex, they found that, for all their numbers, opponents often were speaking past each other. Gulf State Shia blamed Saudi Arabia for the rise of ISIS; Saudi Arabia and its Sunni neighbors blamed Shia Iran. And none of them matched up with the Syrian mujahideen, who sometimes applauded ISIS fighters even while denouncing the group's brutality. The study revealed fierce opposition to ISIS across communities on Arabic Twitter. But it also showed that a one-size-fits-all approach to countering ISIS's online message would fall flat. Following the Linguistic Fingerprints of ISIS The RAND-Lex team narrowed its focus to Egypt in another study. The researchers wanted to see if they could measure how well ISIS's message resonated with people far outside its home turf of Iraq and Syria. To do that, they ran ISIS speeches, proclamations, and articles through RAND-Lex, looking for distinct wordsthe group's linguistic fingerprints. Then they looked for those same words in more than 6 million Egyptian tweets, to see whether people were starting to talk like ISIS. They found that only around 1 or 2 percent of the population was borrowing words from ISIS. They were much more likely to describe the world in terms taken from the Muslim Brotherhood. But the number of ISIS-imitating accounts grew in the months the researchers followed, especially in poorer places like the Sinai, a sign that its message was starting to stick with some Egyptians. The next update to RAND-Lex helped researchers understand why. It was able to not just pull out distinct words and phrases, but also assign values to themto discern angry words from happy words, for example, or future-facing words from backward-looking words. It could start to get a feel for the text. ISIS speech was often intense, future-oriented, focused on social values and relationshipsa rallying cry. It found that ISIS speech was not as hateful and negative as some might expect. Instead, it was often intense, future-oriented, focused on social values and relationshipsa rallying cry. It used we phrases, but not so much them phrases. The language of al-Qa'ida in the Arabian Peninsula, by comparison, was informational, even technicalless a call to action than a report of how and why something had happened. It often read, the researchers noted, like a how-to manual. We can show what is unique about how different people talk about the world, and how they tackle the world, Marcellino said. They're inextricably linked. We talk about the world in ways that reflect how we see the world. More Needles, More Haystacks In more recent months, RAND researchers have scanned tens of millions of American tweets into RAND-Lex to understand how people talk about health and wellness. They found that people are more likely to talk about being sick than about staying wella possible opening for healthy-living campaigns to change the conversation. Researchers have also used RAND-Lex to examine Russian propaganda on Twitterand found a running online battle between Russian propagandists and Ukrainian activists. Marcellino ran hundreds of blog items through RAND-Lex to see how Americans were talking about privilege; most addressed white privilege or male privilege, he found, but almost none mentioned class privilege. The computer program he and Winkelman built by hand, with help and support from across RAND, has expanded beyond keyword testing and value comparisons. It can search through volumes of text and pull out the major themes; it can learn from small samples of text how to classify much larger collections. It can tease out the overall stance of a text in English or Arabic, with Russian in the works. RAND recently made it available to outside researchers as a subscription service. We live in a world where the amount of data is increasing all the time, Marcellino said. It's not just that the haystacks are getting bigger and bigger. The number of haystacks is increasing exponentially. We need new ways to find the needles. We've realized that if you leverage what machines are good at and what humans are good at, you can do really, really important work, at massive scales. It is, if anything, a growth industry. In the time it takes you to finish this sentence, 6,000 new messages will have whistled across Twitter alone. Doug Irving Gaumont, producer of the French drama series Nox, has signed an agreement with Studiocanal to co-distribute the 6x1-hour episode crime thriller. Under the terms of the agreement, Gaumont will handle distribution of the drama, a Creation Originale for pay-TV Group Canal+, in the US, Canada, Latin America and Asia, with Studiocanal handling sales for all other territories.Nox commenced production in July and stars Nathalie Baye, Malik Zidi, Maiwenn and Frederic Pierrot. Set in the underbelly of Paris, it features Baye as a bad-tempered and headstrong retired cop who is forced back into action when her daughter Maiwenn, also a well-respected cop, disappears into the Paris sewers.Along with the help of her daughters police partner Zidi, the senior detective chases every clue in a descent into the bowels of the city, racing against time to navigate the maze of basements.This nail-biting crime thriller ... attracted an outstanding cast to portray these characters who become ever more complex as the investigation unfolds, commented Vanessa Shapiro, president of worldwide TV distribution and co-production at Gaumont. We look forward to collaborating with Studiocanal to distribute Nox to audiences worldwide.Added Francoise Guyonnet, executive managing director TV, Studiocanal: We know there is a global demand for drama series with the high production values and intriguing narratives that have become hallmarks of the Creation Originale label. We are very pleased to work alongside Gaumont to deliver this exceptional new series to our clients. In Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, mammoth hurricanes have left behind a colossal amount of work. The cleanup and reconstruction efforts are going to take years. That means a severe demand for salvage and demolition crews, roofers, carpenters, drywall installers, painters, plumbers and workers in all manner of other trades and skills. And if recent history tells us anything, much of this demand will be met by immigrants migrant laborers, many of them highly skilled, and many of them lacking legal status. As a workers rights organizer in New Orleans, I remember what happened on the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina. Immigrant workers surged in to tackle the huge job of rebuilding, only to be exploited by unscrupulous employers in an unregulated, chaotic and dangerous labor bazaar. The workers had little access to decent housing and little ability to protest against unsafe conditions or wage theft. This wasnt a problem only for immigrants. As long as labor was exploitable and cheap, American-born workers and local businesses suffered too, as conditions and wages slid toward rock bottom. If we had a federal government sensitive to these issues, the solution would be a moratorium on immigration enforcement in disaster zones. This would ensure that the rebuilders could keep working, and that those depending on them could return home as soon as possible. Given the Trump administrations relentless attacks on immigrants, theres little hope for this sensible fix. In the absence of such a moratorium, governors and mayors should insist that federal labor laws be enforced in these areas while reconstruction is underway. Labor laws guarantee workers payment, safe working conditions and the ability to report mistreatment, among other things. When workers are vulnerable and afraid, aware that their immigration status can be used against them, they are easy targets for abuse. They know that one complaint could mean a quick call to immigration. Their fear of being deported and losing everything shackles them to bad employers. One exemplary story is that of Josue Diaz, an undocumented day laborer who was recruited along with 11 other workers after Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. The employer promised them good jobs, fair wages, safe conditions and housing. The employer took them to Beaumont, Texas, where they were forced to live in tents in an isolated labor camp at an abandoned oil refinery. They were made to work in toxic conditions without safety equipment. Then, after they risked their health doing the most dangerous work, the company sent in U.S.-born workers with safety equipment and protections to finish the rest of the job. The Latino workers were treated as disposable. Diaz and the other workers organized, protesting the discrimination and illegal treatment. In retaliation, the employer evicted them without compensation. When they demanded their pay, the employer called local police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which arrested the workers immediately. After spending 78 days in jail, Diaz convinced the district attorney that the workers had been the victim of employer retaliation. The DA withdrew the charges, but ICE still detained the workers and sought to deport them. These abuses, and the exploitation that took place after Katrina, occurred during the George W. Bush administration, which supported comprehensive immigration reform. The climate of fear is far worse today, with agents and officers from ICE and the Border Patrol running roughshod over immigrant communities, goaded by President Donald Trumps toxic rhetoric. Nevertheless, immigrants will still risk their lives to come here. Their need is that dire and our demand is that urgent. The credit rating company Moodys estimates that the damage from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma could total $150 billion to $200 billion considerably more than the $108 billion or so in damage left by Katrina. Irma destroyed an estimated 25 percent of homes in the Florida Keys. In Harris County, Texas, which includes Houston, more than 136,000 homes and other structures were flooded by Harvey. In the aftermath of these disasters, there has been talk of rebuilding homes and cities with greater attention to long-term sustainability and resilience. Some have even called for a green New Deal that marries these goals with stronger social safety nets for storm victims. This worthy vision can and should take into account the people who are doing the rebuilding, making sure they are safe, secure and paid a fair wage. And that means starting with meaningful protections for the immigrant workers who help storm victims return home. MADISON House Speaker Paul Ryan pressed for a Republican tax overhaul in Madison on Monday, arguing it would jolt the national economy and aid wealthy and middle-class taxpayers alike. Ryan, R-Janesville, brushed aside as class warfare rhetoric the critique that the plan is tilted to favor the wealthy. His comments came as he pitched the GOP plan to a receptive audience: the states business lobby, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. The visit comes as congressional Republicans hope to ramp up efforts, which Ryan has led, to pass a sweeping cut of corporate and individual taxes and do a once-in-a-generation streamlining of the federal tax code. This is about giving a break to middle-class families, and its about getting tax rates on businesses down, Ryan told reporters at the event, held at Monona Terrace. President Donald Trump and congressional Republican leaders last month released a broad framework for a tax overhaul that would reduce the number of individual income tax brackets, eliminate deductions and exemptions and repeal the estate tax. It also would slash tax rates for corporations and pass-through businesses. A left-leaning think tank, the Wisconsin Budget Project, analyzed the impact of the plan on Wisconsin taxpayers. It found 61 percent of the value of the tax cuts for Wisconsin residents would accrue to the top 1 percent of highest-earning taxpayers. Its also unclear exactly how the plan would affect middle-income earners. While the plan would increase the standard deduction, it would eliminate the personal exemption and limit itemized deductions. Officials have also not disclosed the income ranges for the various tax brackets. The Budget Project study found some Wisconsin taxpayers would actually face tax increases under the plan. Ryan declined to comment on the Wisconsin Budget Project study in a Monday press conference. But Ryan said the class warfare rhetoric especially rings hollow these days amid talk about how to make Americas business climate more globally competitive and entice multinational corporations to locate their headquarters and manufacturing facilities in the U.S. Theres nothing wrong with lowering the tax rates on businesses so Wisconsinites can go back to work, so that Wisconsin businesses can grow, Ryan said. Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Black Earth, who represents Dane County and south-central Wisconsin, countered that Ryan is the one conducting war against the middle class. The truth is, this is a tax giveaway to the wealthiest in the country at the expense of working families, Pocan said in a statement. The GOP tax overhaul plans provisions include reducing the corporate income tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent. It also would reduce to 25 percent the maximum tax rate on income from pass-through businesses such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S-corporations. Getting a tax overhaul done is widely seen as politically essential for congressional Republicans after their repeated failures to repeal and replace Obamacare. Last week, Ryan vowed to keep the House in session through the Christmas season, if necessary, to ensure passage. Also Monday, Ryan suggested he opposes restoring Obamacare subsidies to health insurers that Trumps administration unexpectedly announced last week it will end. Instead, lawmakers should renew efforts to repeal and replace Obamacare, he said. The answer is not just to shovel more money at a failing program, Ryan said. Theres nothing wrong with lowering the tax rates on businesses so Wisconsinites can go back to work, so that Wisconsin businesses can grow. U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis. Afghan officials say two separate suicide and gun attacks on government forces have left at least 71 people dead. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the October 17 assault on a police compound in the southeastern city of Gardez, capital of Paktia Province bordering Pakistan, in which at least 41 people were killed, including the provincial police chief, and more than 150 others wounded. Thirty people, including police officers and civilians, were also reported killed and 10 others wounded in an attack blamed on the Taliban in the neighboring province of Ghazni. The Interior Ministry said that two suicide bombers detonated cars filled with explosives outside the provincial police headquarters and its attached training center in Gardez, before gunmen launched an assault against the facilities. The ministry said the hourslong fighting ended when all five gunmen were killed by security forces. However, a senior police official said there were 11 attackers in total, a figure that Afghanistan's Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah cited in an interview with RFE/RL. "Preliminary information shows that they used four car-bombs in this attack, and 11 suicide attackers were involved in it," Abdullah said after arriving in Patakia Province with acting Interior Minister Wais Barmak. Abdullah pledged a "complete investigation into this attack" and said the "enemy of Afghanistan is using all forms of crimes, terror, and brutality." Deputy Interior Minister Murad Ali Murad said that the dead included 21 police officers, including provincial police chief Toryal Abdiani, and 20 civilians. Local health official Hedayatullah Hameedi said that the casualties included "women, students, and police." Security officials told RFE/RL that provincial police chief Toryal Abdiani was among the dead. In Ghazni Province, officials said Taliban militants detonated an explosives-laden vehicle near a security compound in Andar district early on October 17 while others stormed the building. Provincial council member Amanullah Kamran said the attack targeted the premises of the district governor and police headquarters. Late on October 16, a suspected U.S. drone strike in Pakistans northwestern Kurram tribal area, part of which borders Paktia, killed 20 militants, intelligence officials said. Officials said the site was a main center in the area for the Haqqani network, a group that has ties to the Afghan Taliban. The Western-backed government in Kabul is struggling to beat back insurgents in the wake of the exit of most NATO forces in 2014. U.S. President Donald Trump recently unveiled a strategy to try to defeat the militants, and officials said more than 3,000 additional U.S. troops are being sent to Afghanistan to reinforce the 11,000 already stationed there. With reporting by AFP, Reuters, AP, and dpa The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny and his brother Oleg were unfairly convicted of financial crimes at trial in the so-called Yves Rocher case in 2014. In an October 17 ruling, the ECHR said that Russian courts handed down "arbitrary and manifestly unreasonable" decisions in the case, which led to the imprisonment of Oleg Navalny and a suspended sentence for his better-known brother Aleksei. The Strasbourg-based court ordered Russia to pay a combined total of nearly 76,000 euros ($89,000) and 460,000 rubles ($8,000) to the brothers. Aleksei and Oleg Navalny were convicted of stealing about $500,000 from two Russian firms, one of which was affiliated with French cosmetics company Yves Rocher, between 2008 and 2012, and of laundering some of the money. Both were sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison, but Aleksei's sentence was suspended. Oleg Navalny remains in prison. The brothers denied the charges, saying the case was politically motivated -- in part as an effort to deter Aleksei from his opposition activities by making his brother into a "hostage" held behind bars. The ECHR declined to examine whether the case was politically motivated, although three judges said that it should have done so. The Russian Justice Ministry said it disagrees with the ECHR ruling. In a statement issued shortly after the ruling was published, the ministry said Russia will wait for it to come into force and then consider a possible appeal. The Yves Rocher case is one of two major financial-crimes prosecutions of Navalny, a vocal opponent of President Vladimir Putin who has rattled the Kremlin with reports alleging high-level corruption. Navalny, 41, is campaigning for a March 2018 vote in which Putin is widely expected to seek and secure a new six-year presidential term. But Russian authorities say he is barred from running for office because of his conviction in the other case -- known as Kirovles -- in which he was found guilty of stealing money from a state timber company through sales machinations. Central Election Commission chief Ella Pamfilova said on October 17 that Navalny will not be eligible to run for office until about 2028. The ECHR ruled in 2016 that the trial of Navalny and co-defendant Pyotr Ofitserov in the Kirovles case was unfair, saying that they were convicted of actions "indistinguishable from regular commercial activity." Following that ruling, the Russian Supreme Court threw out the 2013 convictions and ordered a retrial, which ended in February with the same verdicts and the same suspended sentences of five years for Navalny and four for Ofitserov. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has told world leaders that the time to end Russia's war in Ukraine is "now" and called for the extension of a grain-export deal due to expire shortly, as heavy fighting continues in the eastern Luhansk and Donetsk regions. "I am convinced that now is the time when the Russian destructive war must and can be stopped," Zelenskiy said in a video address to the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Bali, Indonesia, on November 15. "It will save thousands of lives," he said. 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. But Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the highest-ranking Russian official present at the G20 summit, said Kyiv's conditions for restarting talks with Moscow were "unrealistic." "All problems are with the Ukrainian side, which is categorically refusing negotiations and putting forward conditions that are obviously unrealistic," Lavrov told reporters on November 15. Lavrov also accused Western countries of trying to "politicize" a joint declaration at the summit. A draft declaration by G20 leaders seen by Reuters said "most" members strongly condemned the war in Ukraine. "Yes, our Western colleagues tried in every way to make that declaration politicized and tried to push through language that implied condemning the actions of the Russian Federation on behalf of the entire G20, which includes us," Lavrov said. "But let's do this in a fair way and let's make it clear that, on this topic, we have differences," Lavrov said. In his video address, Zelenskiy ruled out a "Minsk 3 agreement," a reference to two failed cease-fire deals between Kyiv and Moscow in 2014 and 2015 over the status of the eastern Donbas region. "We will not allow Russia to wait, build up its forces, and then start a new series of terror and global destabilization. There will be no Minsk 3, which Russia will violate immediately after the agreement," Zelenskiy said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov shortly afterward said Zelenskiy's comments confirmed that Kyiv is not interested in holding peace talks with Moscow. Zelenskiy urged Moscow to withdraw all its forces from Ukraine and reaffirm Ukraine's territorial integrity, warning that Kyiv would not compromise its sovereignty, territory, or independence. He also called for all Ukrainian prisoners to be released. Zelenskiy outlined several approaches to achieve peace, including ensuring nuclear and food safety, the ending of hostilities, and a prevention of escalation. He blasted "the crazy threats of nuclear weapons that Russian officials resort to," referring to rhetoric employed repeatedly by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelenskiy thanked the "G19," pointedly excluding Russia, for making clear that "there cannot be any excuses for nuclear blackmail." Putin has shunned the gathering and sent Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to Bali in his place. A deal struck in July between the United Nations and Russia that allows the export of Ukrainian grains and other food products from ports blocked by Russian warships is due to expire on November 19. Zelenskiy said the deal, which according to the UN has allowed the export of 10 million tons of grain and other food, should be extended indefinitely. "I believe our export grain initiative deserves an indefinite extension -- no matter when the war ends," Zelensky said. "The right to food is a fundamental right of every person in the world," he said, proposing to expand the deal to more Ukrainian ports. Zelenskiy accused Moscow of an "attempt to turn the cold into a weapon" by launching waves of air strikes against key infrastructure ahead of the coming winter. He also spoke in favor of a U.S.-led push for a price cap on Russian oil exports "so that energy resources are no longer used as weapons." The Ukrainian military reported early on November 15 that its forces repelled waves of Russian attacks on positions in the Donetsk region, including Bakhmut and Belohoryivka, and on Novoselivske in Luhansk. According to Ukraine's General Staff, the Russian military is accommodating recently arrived reinforcements in abandoned private houses in Luhansk. The General Staff had previously said that in Luhansk, occupying Russian forces plan to carry out a complete evacuation of the civilian population from three settlements. The Russian Army is also trying to hold captured territories and continues to equip defensive lines on the left bank of the Dnieper River in the Kherson region, the military said. In the parts of Kherson region recaptured by the Ukrainian Army over the past week, Russia has destroyed "all critical infrastructure," Zelenskiy said in his regular nightly address on November 14. Zelenskiy said there is no electricity, no communication, and no television in Kherson, saying the withdrawing Russian troops destroyed everything intentionally. Earlier on November 14, Ukrainian national energy company Ukrenerho said Russia had destroyed key energy infrastructure supplying the entire right bank of the Kherson region and a significant part of the Mykolayiv region. "Most of the liberated Kherson region has been without electricity since November 6," Ukrenerho chief Volodymyr Kudrytskiy said. "We are doing our best to supply people with electricity as soon as possible." Ukrainian commander-in-chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy said he spoke with U.S. General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on November 14 and told him that the Ukrainian military will not accept any negotiations, agreements, or compromise decisions regarding the end of the war. "I assured that we will fight as long as we have the strength. Our goal is to liberate all Ukrainian land from Russian occupation," Zaluzhniy said on Facebook. "There is only one condition for the negotiations: Russia must leave all captured territories." With reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, and BBC A Moscow court has extended the house arrest for renowned theater director Kirill Serebrennikov, whose detention on fraud charges stunned the Russian artistic world and elicited support internationally. The Basmanny district court said in its October 17 order that Serebrennikov should remain in detention until January 19. The 47-year-old director of Moscows famed Gogol Theater was arrested in August, accused of embezzling around $1 million in state funds. He has called the charges absurd. Prosecutors asked the court to prolong his house arrest, saying he was at risk of fleeing the country. "This is a kind of complete trickery, [saying] that we could flee," Serebrennikov was quoted by RIA Novosti as saying."What's more I have an interest in the truth prevailing, in the truth being uncovered. "You only run away when you are guilty," he was quoted as saying. Scores of people gathered outside the Moscow courthouse, holding photographs of the director and criticizing the prosecution. In addition to his theatrical work, Serebrennikov is a respected filmmaker. Before his arrest, he clashed with Russias Culture Ministry over the staging of a ballet about legendary Soviet ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev, who defected to the West in 1961. Culture Minister Vladimir Medinsky suggested that production might violate a 2013 "gay propaganda" law. Despite a slight delay, Tomah Memorial Hospital is set to open its new Occupational Health & Wellness Clinic in Tomahs Industrial Park Monday, Oct. 30. Hospital clinic operations director Kyle Berra said construction of the 3,400-square-foot facility at 1401 Townline Road was pushed back a few weeks to accommodate final details of the building and the roll out of the new Epic electronic medical record system, which went live at Tomah Memorial Oct. 1. Officials broke ground for the new facility in March. One of the big requests we received from the local businesses is that they would like a site closer to them, Berra said of the new facility. We felt that by moving into the industrial park we would be right around the corner or across the street from many of our largest employers in the Tomah or Monroe County area, said Berra. Occupational health services were provided in various offices at Tomah Memorial Hospital. Berra said the new facility will offer more space for the department. The clinic will not be open to the general public but will specialize in work-related services, whether that be a work-related injury or a pre-employment type of a need, he said. Berra said health services include rehabilitation services such as pre-work screens, evaluations and conditioning, drug collections and testing, physical exams, testing and vaccinations, plus health, wellness and education services at the clinic and on-site at the business or industry. I think businesses are always facing more scrutiny from regulatory agencies to cut down on work-related injuries, said Berra. The businesses are really making an effort to hire the right people for the job, those who are healthy enough to do the job and for those that are unfortunate enough to be injured on the job, they want them to get back to full work as safely as possible. Berra said the clinic will accommodate walk-in patients for drug screenings, but the majority of patient visits will be by appointment through the employees business or local health care provider. He said TMH Occupational Health & Wellness currently offers services to about 100 area businesses and industries. The one-story, $500,000 facility includes patient examination rooms, a rehabilitation area, audiology room, radiology facility and staff working space. Berra said the facility will include a staff of seven, including a nurse practitioner, registered nurse, a medical assistant, a drug collection specialist, imaging technician, patient access representative and community outreach assistant. He said additional employees could be added as business volume dictates. I think its going to be a huge advantage for area businesses in terms of work productivity, family nurse practitioner LuAnn Fowler, A.P.N.P., said of the new facility. Fowler, who specializes in occupational health and wellness, said staff is specially trained in occupational medicine and understands what it takes to get injured employees back to work. Well be helping area employers meet their needs and the regulatory requirements that they have to comply with in order to have a healthy workforce, Fowler said. The clinic will be open Monday through Friday from from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The relationship that we have built with local businesses and industries has been growing for the past 25 years, and we are all very excited to be able to get to this next phase of services for our customers, Fowler said. Czechs go to the polls in national elections on October 20-21, with opinion polls tipping billionaire businessman, Andrej Babis to emerge as the winner despite being charged with fraud 11 days before the vote. The next parliament looks set to be fractured between numerous parties, possibly including one campaigning to ban Islam. (Ray Furlong, Roman Kupka, RFE/RL) Just one more sign that ethnicity and language don't necessarily translate into political loyalty. Just one more signal that Moscow's grip on ethnic Russians and Russian speakers abroad is not all it's cracked up to be. Just one more indication that the so-called Russian World is largely a fiction manufactured by Kremlin spin doctors. Latvian media reported last week that the center-left party Harmony, led by the ethnic Russian mayor of Riga, Nils Usakovs, has terminated its 8-year-old cooperation agreement with United Russia. The agreement was signed amid much fanfare in St. Petersburg back in October 2009. But in 2015, after Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and armed intervention in the Donbas, Usakovs emphatically told The Guardian that he was "a Russian-speaking Latvian who is a patriot of my country." And last week's announcement made it clear that, with elections coming next year, Harmony has decided that its future -- and that of the ethnic Russians it represents -- lies in Latvia and in Europe, not in Moscow. This, of course, is part of a trend we've seen elsewhere. We've seen it in Russophone cities in Ukraine like Odesa, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Mariupol. We've seen it in Russophone Estonian cities like Narva. We're even increasingly seeing it in Belarus. And we're also seeing it with the thousands of Russian citizens who have emigrated to the Baltic states and Ukraine, who have worked hard to become constructive members of those societies, and who have made it clear that they are not interested in being part of Vladimir Putin's Russian World. Values are increasingly trumping ethnicity -- and that's good news. And it's a trend we are likely to see more of in the future. Keep telling me what you think on The Power Vertical's Twitter feed and on our Facebook page. Negotiators from Afghanistan, China, Pakistan and the United States met in Oman on October 16 to try to find ways of reviving peace talks with the Afghan Taliban. It was not clear whether any Taliban militants had joined the talks, which have so far failed to restart a peace process that collapsed in 2015. Taliban sources have said they would stay away from the discussions in Muscat, casting doubt on prospects for reviving the long-stalled negotiations. Pakistani officials said the talks had resumed on Pakistan's initiative. The Pakistani team was led by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua. The Afghan team, led by Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai, said the talks would focus on relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan and implementing Pakistan's commitments to fight terrorism. In Washington, a State Department official confirmed the meeting on October 16 took place but declined to provide any details. There was no immediate comment from China. The four-nation Quadrilateral Coordination Group, which last met in Islamabad in early 2016, has been trying to open a path to direct talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban, with little success. Amin Waqad, a close aide to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and a senior member of the High Peace Council, said last week his country would participate in the Muscat meeting and that the Taliban representatives would also be there. The Taliban denied that they had received any invitation. The principal obstacle to negotiations has been the Taliban's refusal to attend after their last leader, Mullah Akhtar Mansur, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Pakistan last year. The United States wants Pakistan, which it accuses of harboring Afghan Taliban commanders, to exert more influence on the militants to bring them to the negotiating table. Pakistani officials deny sheltering Taliban militants and say their influence on the group has waned. Based on reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghansitan, RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal, dpa, and Reuters Efforts by Kabul and international donors to educate girls in Afghanistan have significantly faltered in recent years, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW). Sixteen years after the U.S.-led military intervention in Afghanistan ousted the Taliban from power, an estimated two-thirds of Afghan girls do not attend school, HRW said in a new report released on October 17. The 132-page report says efforts to educate girls have faltered as security in the country worsens and international donors disengage. The report -- titled I Wont Be A Doctor, And One Day Youll Be Sick: Girls Access To Education In Afghanistan -- is based on 249 interviews with girls aged 11 to 18 from four provinces. More girls are attending school in Afghanistan today than under the Taliban, but the Western-backed Afghan government is far from reaching its stated goal of educating all of them. According to the government, 3.5 million children are out of school and 85 percent of them are girls. Only 37 percent of adolescent girls are literate, compared to 66 percent of adolescent boys. The obstacles girls face in Afghanistan to get an education are many, the HRW report says. In a country where co-ed education is nearly unheard of, Kabul provides fewer schools for girls than boys at both the elementary and high-school levels. Fewer than 20 percent of teachers are female in more than half of Afghanistans provinces, HRW explains, creating a barrier for the many girls from families who wont allow them to be taught by a male. Many girls are forced to remain at home, HRW says, due to discriminatory attitudes that do not value or permit their education. With one-third of girls marrying before 18, many are compelled to drop out of school. Despite the obstacles, many Afghan families are doing all they can to educate their daughters, the HRW report highlights. HRW interviewed families that moved across cities and even the country to find a school for their daughters, as well as others that separated to enable girls to study. In some cases, older brothers traveled to Iran to work illegally to pay school costs for their younger sisters back home. Even when school is free, there are other costs families face in sending their kids to school. And if forced by financial constraints, many families opt to send their sons instead of their daughters to school. About one-quarter of Afghan children work to help their families survive desperate poverty, and many girls weave, embroider, beg, or pick garbage rather than study. The Taliban and other insurgents now control or contest more than 40 percent of Afghanistans districts. Fighting between Taliban and government forces has driven thousands of families from their homes and more than 1 million Afghans are internally displaced. In areas under their control, the Taliban often limits girls to only a few years of schooling or bans them from education altogether. In contested areas, girls seeking to attend school face heightened security threats. The conflict has been accompanied by lawlessness, as militias and criminal gangs have proliferated, and girls face threats including sexual harassment, kidnapping, and acid attacks, as well as targeted attacks and threats against girls education, the HRW report said. International donors also come in for criticism. HRW applauded efforts by Kabul and donors to develop "community-based education, which is a network of classes, often held in homes, that allow children, particularly girls, to access education in communities far from a government school. But HRW pointed out that these specialized classes, funded by donors and implemented by NGOs, remain outside the government school system and are vulnerable to the vagaries of NGO funding. Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi says the independence referendum held last month in Iraq's Kurdish autonomous region is "a thing of the past" after government forces seized territory from Kurds across the north of the country. Abadi made the comments at an October 17 news conference in Baghdad, a day after the Iraqi Army entered the northern Kirkuk province. The operation comes three weeks after the Kurdish region held the independence referendum that infuriated Baghdad. Abadi told the news conference that the referendum "is finished and has become a thing of the past," though he called for a dialogue with Kurdish leaders "under the constitution." Residents of the Kurdish-controlled areas, including Kirkuk, largely backed secession from Iraq in the September 25 referendum. Kurdish Peshmerga forces took control of much of Kirkuk Province in 2014, when militants from the extremist group Islamic State swept across northern Iraq. The Baghdad government said earlier on October 17 that Peshmerga soldiers withdrew without fighting, but clashes were reported. The United States, which opposed the referendum, called for "calm" after Iraqi government forces seized Kirkuk but said it wouldn't take sides in the dispute. The U.S. military said on October 17 that it had received conflicting reports of the death toll in a battle outside Kirkuk the previous day, with between three and 11 fighters killed. Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, AP, and dpa Kosovar President Hashim Thaci has accused Serbia of hindering ethnic Serb judges and prosecutors from taking an oath and joining the countrys judicial system. Thaci said in a statement on October 17 that his office was ready to host 42 judges and 14 prosecutors from Kosovo's Serb minority for the oath, adding that "they did not come because they were hindered by the Republic of Serbia." This is "another failure and disability of the EU as a mediator" in the implementation of the February 2015 Justice Agreement between Belgrade and Pristina to integrate the courts in Serb-dominated northern Kosovo into the country's judicial system. Speaking at a press briefing in Brussels, Maja Kocijancic, spokesperson for EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini, said the European Union regrets that Serbia asked to postpone the integration of the Kosovo Serb judicial personnel into the Kosovo judiciary. Kocijancic had told RFE/RL on October 16 that "all the steps have been completed" for such integration to take place and that both sides "met their obligations in this respect." On August 31, Mogherini hosted a meeting with Thaci and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Brussels as part of an effort to move forward dialogue between the two neighbors and normalize ties. After the talks, her office said that the two presidents confirmed that the Justice Agreement would be "fully implemented" on October 17. "On that day, judges, prosecutors, and judicial staff will be integrated into the Kosovo judiciary," a statement said. "The integration of the judicial personnel will allow for justice to be delivered across Kosovo and, in particular, in [the northern] Mitrovica region." Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 and is recognized by 115 countries but not by Belgrade. Currently there are around 120,000 Serbs in Kosovo and most of them, mainly in the north, oppose the Pristina authorities. Kosovar Albanians, who are the ethnic majority in the small Balkan nation, oppose greater autonomy for Serb-dominated municipalities, saying that this would give Belgrade more influence. Macedonia's Social Democrats won an unexpectedly large share of the vote in municipal elections that essentially became a referendum on the country's future. That future, at least based on expectations recorded at the local level on October 15, is a European one. The ruling Social Democratic Union (SDSM) party headed by Prime Minister Zoran Zaev staved off a late run by its biggest rival, Nikola Gruevski's nationalist VMRO-DPMNE party, which seemed on the eve of the vote to be poised for a strong showing. Gruevski was countering the Brussels-leaning vision of the SDSM by offering a return to a supposedly better past. But in the end it was Zaev who won the day, in large part due to the support of urban voters who endorsed the sitting government's pro-Western agenda. It marked another setback for the VMRO-DPMNE, which in December 2016's parliamentary elections failed to win enough seats to form the government for the first time in a decade. During the campaign, Zaev promised that Macedonia would become the 30th member of NATO, and would push for negotiations to join the European Union. It has been a candidate for accession to the EU since 2005, but the goal is to enter accession negotiations despite the bloc's vow not to expand in the near future. The Social Democrats won a majority in almost 50 of a total of 81 municipalities, including the capital, Skopje. Their coalition partner, the ethnic Albanian Democratic Union for Integration (DUI), won in 12 municipalities. By contrast, Gruevski's party -- which dominated all levels of government for more than a decade and is still the biggest party in parliament -- triumphed in only nine municipalities. Zaev sent a message to the newly elected mayors that the era of "local sheriffs" running their own show had ended, and that the government would expect them to act with integrity. "I appeal for honesty, dedication, and responsibility. I demand a responsible local and central government," Zaev said. "I feel great joy, but the weight of responsibility is equally great." Shifting Landscape Andrea Stojkovski tweeted that the election results would put the wind back in the sail of democratic reforms -- which, along with hammering out a solution with Greece on its long-contentious name issue, are required of Macedonia if it hopes to move forward on its road to NATO membership -- but also brought a mountain of obligations. Marko Trosanovski of the Macedonian Institute for Democracy tries to explain the significance of the Social Democrats winning at the local level. "In the parliamentary elections people calculated that it was safer to vote for those already in power, fearing revenge and some kind of sanction from the then-ruling VMRO-DPMNE." However, the narrow and against-all-odds win by Zaev's Social Democrats in December changed the playing field. "Our research in the institute shows that voters not only in Macedonia but in other Balkan countries have the tendency to side with winners," Troshanovski told RFE/RL in Skopje. Political analyst Alaydin Demiri believes the message of the local elections is clear, and that the Social Democrats will feel emboldened enough to call new parliamentary elections in the spring. "It should not be forgotten that the real winner of last year's parliamentary elections was VMRO-DPMNE [as the largest single party, despite being unable to form a government], and that the ruling SDSM's hold on power is precarious and requires a more resounding electoral victory," Demiri says. Troshanovski agrees that early parliamentary elections are now more likely. Jailed Whistle-Blower The VMRO-DPMNE, meanwhile, has questioned the validity of the local elections, which saw it lose control of a host of municipalities. Party leader and former Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski said the October 15 vote "took place in an undemocratic atmosphere and in unfair conditions." It has been said that failure is always an orphan, while victory has many fathers. One of the "fathers" in this case is surely former Macedonian security official Gjorgi Lazarevski, one of three agents who leaked information about the illegal wiretapping of ordinary citizens carried out without warrants at the order of Gruevski when he was prime minister. Macedonia entered a full-blown crisis in 2015 after opposition parties accused Gruevski and his counterintelligence chief of masterminding the wiretapping of more than 20,000 people. It dissipated only after the European Union mediated a deal that called for early elections and the appointment of a special prosecutor to probe the content of the wiretaps. Lazarevski, who was arrested in January 2015, described how difficult it had been to give his testimony in the presence of a former colleague, with a prosecutor in the next room. "I told the truth to two institutions, but instead of giving me the status of a whistle-blower, I was charged with espionage," he told the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), recounting the dramatic events that had upended the life of his family, and the whole country as a whole. Lazarevski and his colleagues spent 11 months in prison before the Special Prosecutor's Office dropped the charges against them. At the same time, prosecutors opened a new investigation into the former interior minister under the Zaev government, as well as the intelligence chief and his closest associates. Zaev took office in May, nearly six months after the December elections, ending a two-year political crisis over a wiretapping scandal that brought down the previous government. The delay was caused by obstacles created by President Gjorge Ivanov, who supported Gruevski even when he did not have legal means to form a government. The Macedonian columnist Zvezdan Georgievski predicts the start of a new era, and sees the outcome of the local elections as an unequivocal repudiation of the criminality and corruption that plagued former Prime Minister Gruevski's government. Now, as the initial euphoria over the unexpectedly decisive victory wanes, Zaev and his party face the difficult task of delivering on the European promise, which will require securing an independent judiciary, nurturing a free press, and perhaps the hardest of all -- negotiations with Greece over the country's disputed name. The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect those of RFE/RL Moldova's Constitutional Court says that President Igor Dodon can be temporarily suspended after he refused to swear in a new defense minister. Pro-European Prime Minister Pavel Filip proposed Eugen Sturza as defense minister twice last month, but Dodon, who wants closer relations with Russia, refused to swear him in. Dodon said he wouldn't endorse Sturza because he wasn't a professional military officer. The Court's President, Tudor Pantiru, on October 17 ruled that Dodon has the obligation to accept the appointments made by Filip, and he could be "temporarily stripped of his duties for deliberately refusing... to exercise a part of his constitutional powers." Dodon called the ruling "a grave violation" of the court's powers and threatened street protests. Moldova hasn't had a defense minister since December last year when incumbent Anatol Salaru stepped down amid political infighting. Dodon last month demanded the dismissal of acting Defense Minister Gheorghe Galbura after the countrys military sent soldiers to a multinational training exercise in Ukraine against the presidents wishes. Dodon in a Facebook posting on September 8 accused his countrys pro-Western government of trying to "add the Moldovan Army to the NATO side" and involve it in "geopolitical confrontations" after Chisinau sent 57 soldiers to join U.S.-led military drills in Ukraine. With reporting by AP 18 Protesters carry an injured man following clashes with police during a rally of the Ukrainian opposition in front of parliament in Kyiv on October 17. Mikheil Saakashvili, the former governor of the Odesa region, told the rally that President Petro Poroshenko needed to make anticorruption reforms or leave power if Ukrainians were to see change in their country. (AFP/Sergei Supinsky) MOSCOW -- Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) agents battle fifth columnists and CIA "sleeper" cells bent on sowing chaos and torpedoing a gas deal with China. Americans seeking a "colored revolution" try to frame Russia for the assassination of an anticorruption campaigner resembling opposition activist Aleksei Navalny. And Russian diplomats perish in an Islamist militant attack on Moscow's embassy in Libya. Russian viewers got all that and more when state TV debuted its new spy drama Sleepers (Spyashi) earlier this month, boasting storylines oozing with conspiracy and U.S. spooks providing the perfect foil to Russia's guardians of law, sovereignty, and national defense. And yet, the plot thickens. After the made-for-TV thriller raised howls of indignation from liberals accusing its acclaimed 36-year-old director of grandstanding for the Kremlin, Sleepers filmmaker Yury Bykov publicly apologized and vowed to abandon cinema altogether. Bykov confessed on the Russian-language social network VKontakte to "betraying" fans by "defending the regime." He said he had wrongly come to be seen as a kind of moral compass because of his earlier films and described himself as "weak" and beset by "cowardice." Sleepers was met after its October 9 premier with a flurry of commentary online. Conservative defenders attributed the fuss to the usual "hysteria of liberals." The first episode began with a disclaimer that its characters are fictional, but its plotlines and depictions appear to align cozily with Kremlin aims and policy. In one sequence, an American spy chief with slow, droopy eyes and a long face chews on a steak as he orders sleeper cells to be "woken up." One of the sleepers, a Foreign Ministry department chief, is recruited because his daughter studies at Cambridge in the United Kingdom -- suggesting that officials and other elites should school their children in Russia, not the West. The information that sleeper agent provides leads to Islamist militants storming the Russian Embassy in Libya, butchering diplomats and civilians. It is a scene that appears to echo Russian government accusations that radical Islamist militants it is fighting in the Middle East owe some of their success to Western support. Sleepers was funded in part by the Russian Culture Ministry and produced by Fyodor Bondarchuk, an award-winning filmmaker and member of the ruling United Russia party's top council. The script was written by Sergei Minayev, a pro-Kremlin writer and journalist. Director Bykov is best-known for his films The Major (Mayor) and The Fool (Durak), each of which offers dark and biting social commentary on corruption and decay in modern Russia. No doubt due to that reputation, Bykov came under close scrutiny on social networks and in reviews of Sleepers, and took considerable flak for what some regarded as cheap propaganda. "A television gift for the president's birthday" was how Pavel Lobkov of the independent Dozhd TV described it. A review in the independent Novaya Gazeta newspaper called it "more than cinema. It's a declaration of a new style," arguing that it takes Kremlin propaganda from smear documentaries about the opposition into the realm of fiction. 'My Last Picture' As the premier of Sleepers drew barbs, Bykov deleted his Facebook account and took to VKontakte to apologize to fans and announce he was leaving cinema. "Hundreds of honest people have suffered from the regime and the authorities' tyranny that I tried to defend in this series. The desire, based on patriotism, to make a contribution against an Orange Revolution in the country is a laudable goal -- but wholly archaic," he wrote in a reference to the 2004-05 unrest in neighboring Ukraine that Moscow regarded as Western-orchestrated. "People should protest and demand justice, otherwise there will be no change, and I have betrayed the whole progressive generation that wanted to change something in this country." Bykov said he would complete his film The Factory, due to be aired next year, but told his fans it will be his "last picture." Minayev and Yury Dud, a popular video blogger, leapt to Bykov's defense, albeit with radically different positions. Minayev claimed the online heckling by liberals of Bykov is far more reprehensible than state TV propaganda. He compared such criticism to a state-TV documentary that smeared the opposition called Anatomy Of A Protest and an infamous, fabricated story of a Russian child crucified by Ukraine radicals during the conflict between pro-Kyiv forces and separatists in east Ukraine. "The crucified boy, Anatomy Of A Protest, political talk shows on the federal channels -- they are inept kids in comparison with you." Meanwhile, Dud slammed Sleepers as "shameful propaganda" in an Instagram post but called Bykov one of the "most talented Russian directors." He offered Bykov his support and said he was confident the director would in the future make good films. 'Paranoid And Irrational' There were suggestions that the film captured a certain zeitgeist in Russia "for all the defects of the script." Valery Solovei, a professor at the elite Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) said the series "precisely reflects the structure of modern Russia's mass consciousness." Solovei said polls show the security services are among the most trusted institutions in Russia. Second, he said via Facebook, "our mass consciousness is paranoid and irrational, inclined to believe in conspiracies and simultaneously to suspect malevolent intent." Yury Saprykin, a journalist and columnist for the New Times magazine, in a commentary on October 16 argued that "if directors want to leave the industry because of arguments about cinema, then something is probably wrong with these arguments." He cited a broader trend in which films elicit venomous attacks among different segments of the population. The screening in cinemas this year of the film Matilda, which dramatizes Tsar Nicholas II's romance with a ballerina, was thrown into doubt when radical Orthodox critics set cars on fire and issued other threats to demand it not be aired. Russia's most successful films internationally have frequently been given mixed receptions at home, where filmmakers who support the Kremlin thrive and are given publicity, but those who offer subversive views of modern Russia are often marginalized. State funding for films is controlled by the Culture Ministry, which is headed by Vladimir Medinsky, who touts a "patriotic" vision of domestic cinema and has derided filmmakers like Andrei Zvyagintsev for their bleak portrayals of life in Russia. Medinsky in 2015 criticized Zvyagintsev's Oscar-nominated film Leviathan -- which had received state support -- for misrepresenting Russians and Russian life, saying the government should not support films that "openly spit on the government." Russia's top election official says that opposition politician Aleksei Navalny will not be eligible to run for office until about 2028. Speaking at a youth festival in the southern city of Sochi, Central Election Commission chief Ella Pamfilova warned Navalny and his backers against arguing that he can seek the presidency in a March 2018 vote. Navalny, 41, has campaigned actively ahead of the election, in which President Vladimir Putin is widely expected to seek and secure a fourth term in the Kremlin. But the CEC said in June that he is ineligible to run for public office because of a financial-crimes conviction in one of two high-profile cases that he says were fabricated by authorities for political reasons. "Mr. Navalny is a young politician with a future. He has every chance," state-run news agency TASS quoted Pamfilova as saying. Due to the conviction, however, he cannot run for office until "sometime in about 2028 plus six months," she said. Navalny has organized protests in cities nationwide on several occasions in recent months, including on Putin's 65th birthday on October 7. Ralliers called on the authorities to let Navalny run in the election, scheduled for March 18, and hundreds were detained by police. Pamfilova accused allies of Navalny of misinterpreting the law and "brainwashing" young people. She said that when Navalny's "so-called lawyers try to put false information into kids' heads," saying that he has the right to run, "that is a lie." If Putin serves another term starting in 2018, he would be constitutionally barred from running in the subsequent election in 2024. The next presidential election after that is due to be held in 2030. In addition to organizing street protests, Navalny has rattled the Kremlin by publishing reports alleging high-level corruption among allies of Putin. With reporting by TASS and Interfax A senior Russian diplomat says he expects to hold talks with an Iranian counterpart this week to discuss the situation surrounding the Iran nuclear deal following U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to abandon the multinational accord if it is not amended. The Interfax news agency quoted Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov as saying on October 17 that he plans to meet with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in Moscow in the coming days. "Certainly, the focus is on the situation around the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in light of Trump's statement about his intentions to review the agreement's contents and signals that the United States is inclined to supplement, alter, or modify this document in a [way] that suits Washington," he said. Ryabkov also said that Moscow and Tehran will work out a common approach in order to try to persuade the American side that the proposed measures are not productive. Under the JCPOA -- the July 2015 deal between Iran and six world powers, including the United States and Russia -- Tehran agreed to curtail its nuclear activities in exchange for relief from sanctions that have hurt its economy. But in an October 13 speech, Trump said he would not certify that Iran is complying with the agreement and warned he might ultimately terminate it. He accused Tehran of violating the spirit of the agreement, in part for its continued testing of ballistic missiles and its support for extremists in the Middle East, and said he would ask Congress to strengthen a U.S. law to put additional pressure on Iran. Trump on October 16 raised the possibility once again that he might try to end the deal completely. "It might be total termination. That's a real possibility. Some would say that's a greater possibility, Trump told reporters ahead of a cabinet meeting. Meeting in Luxembourg on October 16, European Union foreign ministers closed ranks in support of the Iran nuclear agreement, warning that Trump's threats jeopardize efforts to find a peaceful solution to the nuclear standoff with North Korea. At a time of acute nuclear threat, the EU is determined to preserve the JCPOA as a key pillar of the international nonproliferation architecture, the ministers said in a joint statement. The bloc's foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said she would visit Washington early next month to urge U.S. lawmakers not to pull out of the Iran deal, which was aimed to slow Iran's potential path toward creating a nuclear weapon. Tehran says its nuclear program has purely peaceful aims. Meanwhile, U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker (Republican-Tennessee), who is leading efforts on behalf of Trump to toughen the Iran nuclear deal in Congress, urged Trump to cooperate with European allies in deciding what to do with the nuclear agreement. "This is something that can only work if the administration exercises tremendous diplomacy with our European allies," Corker said, adding that Democrats in Congress are insisting that the White House must work with Europe. Corker told reporters that he has tried to convince Europeans that Trump's decision to decertify Iran is not all bad and provides world powers with an opportunity to try to correct acknowledged "deficiencies" in the pact. "Look, if I were them, I'd look at this as 'the glass is half full.' He didn't withdraw from the JCPOA, and that's step one," Corker said. China also voiced its support for the agreement. Tehran said it will remain committed to the deal as long as it serves the country's national interests. In a statement on the presidency's website on October 17, Iranian President Hassan Rohani said that the unanimous support for the agreement, particularly from the Europeans, is an important political achievement for Iran." The planned talks between Ryabkov and Araqchi comes before Rohani is expected to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Tehran on November 1. With reporting by Interfax, Reuters, and dpa Missile strikes by a suspected U.S. drone hit a militant compound in the Kurram tribal region close to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border late on October 16, killing 20 extremists, intelligence officials said. Five militants were initially reported killed but a later search of the compound found 15 more bodies, the officials said. It appeared to be the second such strike since U.S. President Donald Trump in August accused Pakistan of offering safe havens to extremists. An attack in the same region in September left three people dead and two wounded. Officials said the number of militants present in the compound struck on October 16 showed the site was a main center for Haqqani network militants in the area. Intelligence officials said the target of the drone strike was Haqqani commander Abu Bakar. Officials said the missile strikes occurred very close to the porous border with Afghanistan in mountainous terrain. Some Pakistani officials said they occurred on Afghan territory. The strikes came a day after roadside bombs killed four Pakistani security troops engaged in a search operation for militants in Kurram. Pakistan considers U.S. drone strikes a violation of its sovereignty. Washington accuses Pakistan of providing safe havens for militants, which Pakistan denies. Foreign Minister Khwaja Mohammad Asif said on Geo TV that the United States should not make any drone strikes in either Afghanistan or Pakistan at a time when Afghan peace talks have resumed. He said the matter would definitely be taken up in talks with U.S. leaders. Four-nation talks on peace and stability in Afghanistan started on October 16 in Muscat, Oman. Based on reporting by AP, AFP, Tribune.com.pk, dpa, and Dawn KYIV -- Protesters calling for Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to enact anticorruption reforms or step down scuffled with police in front of Ukraines parliament at a rally organized by firebrand politician Mikheil Saakashvili and other opposition leaders. The mainly peaceful demonstration on October 17 briefly turned violent when a group of protesters first attempted to bring tents into the area in front of parliament. Security forces used tear gas as they tried to stop the crowd, which police estimated at about 4,500, according to state news agency Ukrinform, about one-third of what organizers had hoped for. Police said that four people were injured during street clashes, including a police officer who was hospitalized. Three injured civilians received medical treatment at the scene, a police spokesman said. He added that no one had been detained in connection with the clashes. By early evening, demonstrators had erected more than half a dozen camping-style tents in front of parliament and were setting up more. They also managed to bring metal shields into the security area, echoing measures taken by activists in the massive Euromaidan protests that pushed Russia-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych from power in February 2014. Mustafa Nayyem, a reformist lawmaker and Poroshenko critic whose November 2013 Facebook post is widely seen as a catalyst of the Euromaidan protests, said in a Facebook post that the tents would remain in front of parliament and that demonstrators would gather again there on October 19. Saakashvili, the former Georgian president and governor of Ukraine's Odesa region who has been stripped of both his Georgian and Ukrainian citizenship, had called for the demonstration last month after he returned to Ukraine in defiance of President Petro Poroshenko's government. That call was backed by most of Ukraine's opposition parties, which sent prominent lawmakers, veterans of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, and others critical of Poroshenkos ruling coalition. They are demanding the creation of anticorruption courts, the abolition of parliamentary immunity from prosecution, and an overhaul of Ukraine's electoral legislation. Protestors erected a wooden gate near the entry way police had set up to the area around parliament, with one side dedicated to those lawmakers who dont support the three demands, while the second side had a sign saying "I hear the people" for those who support the goals. "If Poroshenko again does not hear us and tries to buy some time as he has been doing all these three years [of his presidency], then I think we will have to move to another place on this square," Saakashvili told the crowd, suggesting he could seek to hold a bigger and more sustained protest. "I call on residents of Kyiv, after their work is over -- because we do not plan to leave this site -- to come here, to join us and...make Poroshenko think about leaving his post," he said. As lawmakers met inside the parliament building, Poroshenko appeared to address one of the demands in a Facebook post. He wrote that lawmakers immunity has "turned into a guarantee [of] impunity and proposed that the constitution be amended to abolish it. Tensions have been running high after Ukraine's SBU security agency warned on October 16 that "armed provocations" were planned for the protest, and that agents had thwarted an effort by two former activists of a group it called the Revolutionary Right Forces to acquire automatic weapons and rocket launchers, to be used during the rally. Saakashvili has pledged that the demonstration would be peaceful, but security was tight. The authorities set up cordons in front of parliament and closed off streets in the government quarter of central Kyiv, and demonstrators could only enter the rally area after passing through metal detectors. Valeriy Parkhomchuk, an activist from the Dnipro region who supports Saakashvili, held up two signs -- one showing an image of Poroshenko in crosshairs and another with the president behind bars. He said Poroshenko has "betrayed the Ukrainian idea." "He is corrupt and belongs in prison," Parkhomchuk said, adding that he believes a third Maidan -- meaning another change of power -- is inevitable. "There will be blood on the streets again, 100 percent," he said. Saakashvili was previously an ally of Poroshenko, who appointed him governor of Odesa in 2015. He resigned in November 2016, complaining of rampant corruption and saying reform efforts were being blocked, and has since turned his outspoken rhetoric against Poroshenko and his allies. Poroshenko stripped Saakashvili of Ukrainian citizenship in July, when he was outside the country. He lost his Georgian citizenship in 2015, and authorities in Tbilisi have begun criminal proceedings against him. Saakashvili forced his way back into Ukraine on September 10, defying border guards and vowing to reenter politics. With reporting by RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service Ukraine's military says that two of its soldiers were killed amid multiple cease-fire violations by Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine on October 16. One soldier was killed by gunfire from a separatist-controlled district, while the other died after stepping on an explosive device, the military said in a statement on October 17. It said both deaths occurred in the Donetsk region. Separatists forces violated the cease-fire 36 times in the previous 24 hours, and Ukrainian forces returning fire 28 times, it said. There were no statements from the separatists on cease-fire violations. Fighting between Kyiv's forces and the Russia-backed separatists who hold parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions has killed more than 10,000 people since April 2014. Several cease-fire deals announced as part of the Minsk accords -- September 2014 and February 2015 pacts aimed at resolving the conflict -- have failed to hold. The latest cease-fire was agreed on August 22 in a phone call between the leaders of Germany, France, Russia, and Ukraine. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev has held talks with the visiting leader of Russia's North Caucasus region of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov. Mirziyoev's office said the talks on October 16 focused on trade, economic, and cultural ties between Uzbekistan and the Russian region. Kadyrov has raised eyebrows by meeting with foreign leaders far more often than other Russian regional chiefs do. Rights groups and critics say he rules Chechnya through fear and intimidation but is politically and financially backed by the Kremlin because Russian President Vladimir Putin needs him to keep a lid on the restive region. Before meeting with Mirziyoev, Kadyrov visited the grave of Islamic cleric Muhammad Sodiq Muhammad Yusuf, who taught Kadyrovs late father, former Chechnya head Akhmat Kadyrov. The trip to Uzbekistan came three weeks after Kadyrov visited Belarus, where authorities said he held talks with President Alyaksandr Lukashenka on potential economic and industrial cooperation between Chechnya and Belarus. Kadyrov's visits to the former Soviet republics to discuss economic ties are taking place while Chechnya is at odds with Moscow regarding subsidies. In late September, Kadyrov wrote on Instagram that Moscow "should take the high birth rate in Chechnya into consideration" while planning the federal budget for the next year. In November 2016, Kadyrov publicly criticized Moscow for cutting 2017 financial allocations for all regions, including Chechnya. He said Chechnya, which gets 85 percent of its budget money from the federal government, requires special attention because it was devastated by two post-Soviet separatist wars. Huge amounts of money have been spent on rebuilding the heavily damaged capital, Grozny, and other parts of Chechnya since major fighting in the wars ended more than 15 years ago. 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 A fire blazed through a Toluca Lake pumpkin patch on Monday afternoon, causing some damage to the pumpkin patch and adjoining maze. The pumpkins, however, emerged relatively unscathed, and the patch reopened for business later in the day. An employee told LAist over the phone that the pumpkin patch would be open until 9 p.m. tonight, as per usual. There were no reported injuries. The blaze, which was first reported at 1:55 p.m and fully extinguished by 2:20 p.m., occurred at Cahuenga Boulevard and Riverside, near the eastbound 101 off-ramp at Cahuenga. The off-ramp was briefly closed as 31 firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze. Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Amy Bastman told LAist that the cause of the fire was not yet known. Flames and smoke were visible from the street, as seen in these photos posted to social media: Quick spreading fire at Riverside and Cahuenga, behind #TolucaLake Florists. Fast response from LAFD, they were on scene within minutes. pic.twitter.com/fbXDfowG5e Toluca Lake Magazine (@tolucalakemag) October 16, 2017 Known as the Toluca Lake Pumpkin Festival, the popular annual attraction is run by the Toluca Lake Florist. Dozens of others are wounded. According to witnesses, the vehicle-borne improvised explosive device has gone off at busy intersection, Zoobe Area in downtown Mogadishu, sending volumes of smoke to the sky. The explosion destroyed the whole area. This was very horrible, the bomb went off alongside the busy road and left many people dead. I saw several dead bodies strewn about but could not count them, said witness Ismail Yusuf. After explosion in Mogadishu The emergency team dont even know how many people they have collected because of the high number of the casualties, said Abdukadir Haji Aden, director of Mogadishus main Amin Ambulance Service. About two hours later, a second blast took place in the citys Madina district. A suspect had been caught on suspicion of planting explosives. the Islamist al Shabaab group has carried out regular attacks but this time there was not claim of responsibility. The attacks follows after political impasse between the Federal government of Somalia and its member states, in what many believe could have been foreign interest based political interference. UPDATE: Over 200 were killed in the truck bombings. Incoming South Bend board members talk facility plans, community input South Bend school board members elected this fall will likely play a role in shaping the district's footprint for years to come. The four RS-25 engines, which combined flew on 21 shuttle missions, that will be used for the first Space Launch System mission, EM-1. COLUMBIA, Md. A shift in focus in NASA's exploration plans to the moon won't have an immediate effect on planning for the first flight of the agency's Space Launch System rocket, now expected no sooner than late 2019. At the Oct. 5 inaugural meeting of the reconstituted National Space Council, Vice President Mike Pence announced that NASA would be charged with developing plans for a human return to the moon as a stepping stone for later missions to Mars. "We will return American astronauts to the moon, not only to leave behind footprints and flags, but to build the foundation we need to send Americans to Mars and beyond," Pence said at the meeting at the National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center. He directed NASA to develop a plan within 45 days to carry out that revised policy. [From Ike to Trump: Presidential Visions for Space Exploration] That plan will be based on ongoing studies already in progress at NASA, said Jason Crusan, head of NASA's advanced exploration systems division, in an Oct. 10 presentation at the annual meeting of the Lunar Exploration Analysis Group (LEAG) here. "We were already working on an exploration report that was required by Congress," he said, referring to provisions in a NASA authorization bill signed into law in March calling for development of a "human exploration roadmap" identifying long-term goals for human space exploration and missions needed to accomplish them. The initial version of that report is due to Congress in December. "We're using a lot of that work being done for that exploration report now to answer this 45-day response time that we have," Crusan said. "How would we enable human return [to the moon] given the constraints that we all have?" He said that analysis will include how the proposed Deep Space Gateway, a human-tended outpost in cislunar space, could support missions to the lunar surface. "It can enable robotic missions that way initially, and then human return," he said. "Or, do you pivot and just do human return directly?" He cautioned that a direct return to the moon might not be sustainable in the long run. "It could be achievable, but you would gut a lot of things in the process to go do that very rapidly," he said. That plan, as it takes shape, appears unlikely to make major changes in the first launch of the SLS, known as Exploration Mission (EM) 1. That will be an uncrewed test flight of the Orion spacecraft, spending more than three weeks in cislunar space. On EM-1, Orion will fly in a distant retrograde orbit around the moon, an orbit NASA originally studied for use on the Asteroid Redirect Mission (ARM) because of its stability. NASA formally cancelled plans for ARM earlier this year, but will still use that orbit for EM-1. "We're continuing to use that orbit to push the systems," Crusan said. "We wanted to find a challenging orbit to send Orion into that pushes the overall performance of the vehicle to understand what the limits of it are." The launch date of EM-1 remains uncertain. An agency spokesperson said last month that NASA would announce a new target launch date for the mission in October after performing reviews that took into account both technical issues with the development of SLS and Orion as well as weather events, such as hurricanes that shut down the Johnson and Kennedy Space Centers this summer. That statement came amid reports that the launch date was slipping to late 2019. On Oct. 11, NASA announced it had identified the four RS-25 engines that will be used on the SLS for EM-1. Those engines are former Space Shuttle Main Engines that flew on 21 shuttle missions, including two engines that flew on the final shuttle mission in July 2011. The engines have been updated and tested for use on the core stage of the SLS. "The Space Launch System team has made great progress and has an exciting year ahead as NASA conducts crucial structural tests at Marshall, assembles the core stage and the four RS-25 engines at Michoud and delivers more hardware to the launch pad at Kennedy," said John Honeycutt, SLS program manager at the Marshall Space Flight Center, in an agency statement. That statement did not disclose a projected launch date for EM-1. This story was provided by SpaceNews, dedicated to covering all aspects of the space industry. How will the future of humanity be shaped by our growing reliance on computers and machines? NEW YORK From transporters and lightsabers to spaceships that can travel faster than the speed of light, futuristic devices that lie beyond humanity's grasp for now, at least are a staple of science fiction. And yet over time, people have steadily advanced the boundaries of what technology can do. For some, this raises concerns about whether we should be paying closer attention to sci-fi's cautionary tales about the hidden costs of relying too heavily on tech particularly when it comes to robots and artificial intelligence (AI). As machines become ever more sophisticated and specialized, and perhaps even begin to think for themselves, what does that mean for the humans who engineer and depend on them? On Oct. 5, here at New York Comic Con (NYCC), a group of science-fiction authors took part in a panel titled "It's Technical: Our Future with Robots and More." During the discussion, they addressed rapid advances in robotics, how those advances align with sci-fi speculations about the creation of intelligent robots helpful and malevolent and whether some of the more pessimistic views of a technology-dominated future could ever come to pass. [Super-Intelligent Machines: 7 Robotic Futures] In recent years, one of the most prominent figures in the tech world Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla has spoken repeatedly about the inherent dangers of AI. Musk recently raised eyebrows when he tweeted on Aug. 11 that AI posed a "vastly" bigger threat to the world than North Korea, and he urged lawmakers on July 15 at the National Governors Association summer meeting to regulate AI before "people see robots going down the street killing people." Friend or foe? Many of the current fears about AI center on the rise of superintelligent computers that can outthink humans, the NYCC panelists said. In reality, the dangers of nascent AI may lie in its similarities to human intelligence, author Annalee Newitz told the audience. AI that emerges from human-generated data would likely be shaped by humanity's own flaws and failings, making it "just as screwed up and neurotic as we are," Newitz said. And even if robots can think for themselves, that doesn't necessarily mean they'll take over. In Newitz's novel "Autonomous" (Tor Books, 2017), robots that think and feel as humans do are still seen as property, and are indentured to their owners for up to 10 years, or until they pay off their manufacturing costs, she told the audience. Throughout human history, slavery has existed as an economic cornerstone, Newitz said. In a futuristic world, this would likely extend to include intelligent robots which could further cement the institution of slavery for people as well, as it does in her book, she explained. (Left to right) Panelists Sylvain Neuvel, Nathan Hale, Kirsten Miller, Annalee Newitz and Adam Christopher, and moderator Maryelizabeth Yturralde, in the New York Comic Con panel "It's Technical: Our Future With Robots and More." (Image credit: M. Weisberger/Live Science) In "Autonomous," as the robot character Paladin becomes self-aware, she navigates what it means to be a person in a world where personhood does not necessarily come with personal freedom, Newitz said. Truly autonomous, intelligent robots may exist solely in the realm of sci-fi, but artificial intelligence has recently made large strides toward behaviors that we consider to be uniquely human, such as making art, crafting a holiday song and even writing the next novel in the popular George R. R. Martin fantasy series "A Song of Ice and Fire," the basis for the HBO series "Game of Thrones." "Very dark places" And it can be difficult to predict how tech that's around today might evolve in the future, according to the NYCC panelists. Often, advanced technology is introduced and widely used without consideration of the long-term consequences, author Kirsten Miller said during the panel discussion. [History of A.I.: Artificial Intelligence (Infographic)] The novel "Otherworld" (Delacorte Press, 2017), which Miller co-wrote with Jason Segel, explores an advanced form of virtual reality (VR) that engages all the senses, and questions the ramifications of spending months, or even years, in a virtual space. In the real world, immersive VR experiences are relatively new, but we may find that, over time, the technology could insinuate itself into daily life in ways we don't expect, Miller told the audience. For example, she asked, who would have guessed five years ago that Facebook a social media platform could play a pivotal role in a presidential election? And what unexpected consequences might we see in five more years, from the widespread use of VR? "I have a feeling it's going to go into some very dark places probably more quickly than we're ready for," Miller said. However, though science fiction may sometimes seem prescient about certain technologies, it doesn't predict the future, Miller noted. Rather, sci-fi acts as a mirror for modern issues that are otherwise difficult to talk about; ultimately, even the most futuristic science fiction is still about the present, Newitz said. By considering what it could mean to share a world with intelligent machines and questioning whether people could eventually accept the humanity of a thinking robot writers can draw attention to pervasive inequalities among people in society today, panelist Sylvain Neuvel told the audience. And as for desirable sci-fi tech that's still nowhere to be found in the real world, the panelists named an array of personal favorites, including the robo-driver in the movie "Total Recall," the personal force fields in "Dune," and antiviral treatments that attack viruses on a molecular level. "And giant robots," Newitz added. "I just want to come back to that." Original article on Live Science. Surgeons at the University of Saskatchemwan use a 3D printed human brain to plan complex neurosurgical procedures for patients with movement disorders. This article was originally published at The Conversation. The publication contributed the article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights. Mission control on earth receives an urgent communication from Mars that an astronaut has fractured his shinbone. Using a handheld scanning device, the crew takes images of his damaged tibia and transmits them to earth. Orthopedic surgeons then use a 3D printer to create an exact replica of the astronaut's leg from medical imaging files obtained before the voyage. Surgeons on earth use a robot to stabilize the bone with a metal plate on the 3D replica. The data is transmitted back to Mars, where surgical instruments, a personalized plate and screws are 3D printed. Finally, a surgical robot operates on the injured astronaut. [3D Printing: 10 Ways It Could Transform Space Travel] As a neurosurgeon and a researcher in remote presence robotics, I offer you this vision of the future. I am also a member of the Expert Group on the Potential Healthcare and Biomedical Roles for Deep Space Human Spaceflight of the Canadian Space Agency. Though 3D printing in space is still in early development, a revolution in 3D printing is already occurring closer to home. And it has transformative implications for the future of health care. What is 3D printing? Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, uses a digital model to build an object of any size or shape by adding successive layers of material in a single continuous run. This layering capability allows the manufacturing of complex shapes, such as the intricate structure of bones or vascular channels, that would be impossible to create by other methods. Advances in computer design and the ability to translate medical imaging such as X-rays, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound to digital models that can be read by 3D printers are expanding its applications in health care. 3D printing is opening a horizon of amazing possibilities, such as bioprinting (opens in new tab) living tissues with "biological ink." More than 64,000 people have been killed or injured by landmines in Cambodia since 1979. 3D printing significantly lowers the costs of prosthetic hands and arms, helping landmine victims such as this teenage boy in Phnom Phen. (Image credit: Shutterstock) An advantage of 3D printing technology is that it allows for personalization of health care customized prostheses and tailor-made drugs and organs, for example. This technology may also decrease costs by disrupting supply chains and lowering the production costs of medical devices, surgical instruments and other health-care products. Hearing aids and dentures At present, 3D printing is being widely used in the manufacture of hearing aids and in dentistry. In 2013, there were 10 million 3D-printed hearing aids in circulation worldwide. This huge impact in the hearing aid industry has been called the "quiet revolution" as it has gone almost unnoticed. Before 3D printing, it took one week to manufacture a hearing aid; now it takes only a few hours. The development of sophisticated and accurate 3D oral scanners and new 3D printing dental materials has also catapulted 3D printing as a disruptive technology in dentistry. A time-lapse video of a 3D printed full denture base. In 2016, the Food and Drug Administration Agency (FDA) approved 3D printing denture material and this set the stage for dentists to introduce 3D-printing manufacturing laboratories into their offices. The idea of producing crowns, orthodontic appliances or removable dentures with a push of a button in your dentist's office is not far from reality. Prostheses for land-mine victims Perhaps the biggest impact of 3D printing globally could be in helping to narrow inequality in health-care delivery by producing inexpensive health-care products for low income regions. Prostheses for landmine victims is a good example. Mick Ebeling, CEO of Not Impossible Labs, travels to the Nuba Mountains of Sudan to teach locals how to make prosthetic arms for landmine victims. Landmines in conflict zones in Africa and Asia have devastating consequences for the populations living in those areas. Inexpensive 3D-printed prostheses, customized to the person and printed in one day, have greatly benefited landmine amputees. Networks of volunteers such as e-NABLE and NotImpossible working with open source collaborations have had a positive impact on the design and provision of affordable 3D-printed prostheses. In 2017 alone, these projects have created 300 prosthetic hands that have directly benefited war victims and the disabled poor. Face transplants and spine surgery Surgical applications of 3D printing are evolving rapidly from the production of models for surgical planning to biological active implants (opens in new tab) for craniofacial reconstruction. At the University of Saskatchewan, we have 3D-printed a human brain replica from MRI data. And we use it to plan complex neurosurgical procedures for treating patients with movement disorders. The surgery involves implanting electrodes that target pea-sized structures in the depths of the brain. 3D printed brain for deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgical planning. (Image credit: University of Saskatchewan, Department of Surgery) Surgeons have used similar 3D printed models to plan complex surgeries ranging from a full-face transplant to spine surgery. Implantable surgical devices such as the recently FDA-approved and 3D-printed titanium bone implant coated with bioactive agents that promote bone growth are also starting to reach the clinic. Printing living organs An exciting area with huge potential for the future is the manufacturing of 3D-printed drugs. The first 3D-printed drug approved by the FDA is the anti-seizure medication Sprintam. The 3D printing process enables the creation of a highly porous structure that can load a large dosage of the active compound into a rapidly dissolvable pill. This possibility of highly personalized drugs, which optimize beneficial effects while reducing side effects, made in real-time using digital recipes could radically change the pharmaceutical industry. One of the most promising 3D printing technological advances is the bioprinting of living tissue. Great strides have been made in manufacturing tissue constructs (opens in new tab) that could eventually be used for organ transplants. The clinical manufacturing of biologically active complex structures such as functional skeletal muscle or liver tissue is promising. The recent commercialization of functional human liver or kidney constructs the so-called "lab on a chip organ" will have a huge impact on medical research, drug discovery and toxicology. It could possibly reduce the need to use experimental animal models. Although we may be far away from surgery in Mars using 3D printing technology, the advances on earth are already changing health care. Ivar Mendez, Fred H. Wigmore Professor and Unified Head of the Department of Surgery, University of Saskatchewan This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. Follow all of the Expert Voices issues and debates and become part of the discussion on Facebook, Twitter and Google +. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. This version of the article was originally published on Space.com. On Aug. 17, 2017, detectors spotted gravitational waves produced by the collision of two neutron stars (shown in this artist's impression). The scientists also observed a gamma-ray burst from the energetic event. Don Lincoln is a senior scientist at the U.S. Department of Energy's Fermilab, the country's largest Large Hadron Collider research institution. He also writes about science for the public, including his recent "The Large Hadron Collider: The Extraordinary Story of the Higgs Boson and Other Stuff That Will Blow Your Mind (opens in new tab)" (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2014). You can follow him on Facebook. Lincoln contributed this article to Live Science's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights. The gravitational-wave research community seems to be having a remarkable string of good luck. A few weeks ago, two research teams named for the corresponding gravitational-wave detectors the LIGO and Virgo collaborations made their first announcement of the joint detection of these ripples in the fabric of space-time. The ripples were generated by highly energetic smash-ups in this case a pair of black holes merging. A few days later, the Nobel Prize committee announced it had awarded the 2017 Nobel Prize in physics to a trio of physicists for their roles in making it possible to detect gravitational waves at all. And today (Oct. 16), the two collaborations made yet another spectacular announcement. On Aug. 17, they detected gravitational waves in association with a distant flash of visible light that was seen by a bevy of powerful telescopes. This time, the observation was of the merging, not of black holes, but of two neutron stars extremely dense stellar carcasses. More precisely, the two LIGO detectors, in Louisiana and Washington state, observed these waves and Virgo, near Pisa, Italy, did not. This means that the event occurred in a Virgo blind spot, which helped determine the location of the merger. [Gravitational Waves from Neutron Stars: The Discovery Explained] Less than 2 seconds after LIGO detected the gravitational waves, two orbiting satellites spied the universe's most powerful type of explosion, called a gamma-ray burst. The burst originated from NGC 4993, an elliptical galaxy about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Hydra. Using a set of protocols long set in place for such gravitational-wave detections, collaboration leaders from LIGO and Virgo notified the members of the worlds astronomical community, who turned their telescopes to the section of the southern sky from where the gamma-rays and gravitational waves originated. There, astronomers found a new light in the sky. The observation of visible light in conjunction with gravitational waves is different from earlier examples of these cosmic ripples and implies that a different mechanism was the cause. Pairs of black holes merge invisibly, but a pair of neutron stars slamming into each other is quite a different beast. Events like those are cataclysmic, heating matter to unfathomable temperatures and blasting light across the cosmos. [The Top 10 Greatest Explosions Ever] Neutron stars are stellar remnants that occur when large stars go supernova, causing their cores to collapse. When the cores collapse, the protons and electrons of the star's atoms are merged together to become neutrons. The outcome is essentially a city-size ball of tightly packed neutrons, but with a mass similar to that of our own sun. Neutron star matter is incredibly dense so much so that a thimbleful of it would weigh as much as a small mountain. Above a certain threshold mass, neutron stars cannot exist, because their gravity becomes so large that the stars collapse into black holes. The exact mass at which this collapse occurs is uncertain, but it depends on both the temperature of the neutron-star matter and how fast the neutron star spins. When two neutron stars collide, one of two things can happen. If the two stars are small enough, the outcome will be a single, larger, neutron star. However, if the combined mass of the two stars is above a threshold, the neutron stars will disappear into a single black hole. The data reported today cannot yet determine which happened in this instance. The remnant is either one of the heaviest neutron stars ever observed or one of the lightest black holes. While we cannot be sure, it seems more likely that the result is a black hole. That's because the formation of a black hole is often accompanied by a burst of gamma-rays. If the outcome is a larger neutron star, the debris from the collision should trap the gamma-rays before they escape. Given that a gamma-ray burst was observed, the first option is considered more likely. But it is too soon to be certain either way. So what do we know about the incident reported today? In what is no doubt becoming an overused joke, a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, two neutron stars orbited each other. Over the eons, they emitted an imperceptible amount of gravitational waves, which carried away energy. Albert Einstein predicted the existence of gravitational waves in 1916, as a consequence of his theory of general relativity. General relativity explains the behavior of gravity as the bending of space and time. Massive objects literally distort the shape of the cosmos. And when those objects move, they can set up waves in space that travel away at the speed of light, much like ripples formed when pebbles are dropped into a pond. [8 Ways You Can See Einstein's Theory of Relativity in Real Life] As the orbiting neutron stars lost energy from gravitational radiation, the radius of their orbit decreased and sped up. In the final moments before the two stars coalesced, they were traveling at near the speed of light. Because neutron stars are lower in mass and larger in size than black holes, they were farther apart from each other than in previously observed black hole mergers. This means that the gravitational waves that were emitted are much smaller than has been seen in earlier announcements of similar events. Because of that, our gravitational-wave detectors are only sensitive to neutron-star collisions that are much closer to Earth. In addition, the gravitational waves have different characteristics. When two neutron stars merge, the detectable gravitational waves can persist for about a minute. In contrast, the observed merging of pairs of black holes took a mere fraction of a second. The gravitational waves traveled across the cosmos until they crossed the solar system. Three detectors on Earth two in the U.S. (LIGO) and one in Italy (Virgo) watched for the subtle stretching and compressing of space as the gravitational waves passed by. Each detector is the shape of an L, with each leg being about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) long. Using lasers and mirrors, this equipment can detect changes much smaller than a proton in the length of each leg of the L. The sensitivity is equivalent to measuring the distance from here to Alpha Centauri and being able to see changes as small as the thickness of a human hair. As the gravitational waves were emitted, so were gamma-rays. They also traveled the 130 million light-years between NGC 4993 and Earth and were observed by the NASA Fermi and ESA INTEGRAL satellites. A coterie of telescopes in Chile was luckily in position to be among the first to see a new, bright source that wasn't there before. For instance, the Blanco telescope revealed the identity of the location of the merger, although several other facilities made contemporaneous observations. Once the location was determined, other telescopes could join the effort, including NASA's Hubble Space Telescope and the Chandra X-ray Observatory. These observations occurred across the globe for the next two weeks. So, of what use is this observation? Well, we have now entered a new era of astronomy. Researchers are no longer limited to the electromagnetic spectrum when they search the heavens for spectacular cosmic events; they can now add gravitational observations to the mix. But, more specifically, this measurement conclusively confirms that neutron-star mergers are one cause of gamma-ray bursts. This has long been suspected, but the simultaneous observation of gamma-rays and gravitational waves clinches it. Merging neutron stars are also a source of the heaviest chemical elements found on Earth. This new observation will shed light on just how that happens. Already, measurements made from this event verified that gold, uranium and platinum were created. Quite possibly, the gold of your or your parent's wedding ring originated in the merging of two neutron stars billions of years ago. One fundamental question that can be answered is the speed of gravitational waves. Long thought to be the speed of light, an initial measurement in 2003 made as Jupiter passed in front of a distant quasar confirmed that light and gravity traveled at the same speed although the measurement was not very precise. However, today's measurement is stunning. After traveling for 130 million light-years, gamma-rays traveling at the speed of light and gravitational waves traveling at the speed of gravity arrived at Earth within 1.7 seconds of each other, with the gravitational waves arriving first. This is a conclusive measurement of the speed of gravity. While today's measurement is an exciting one, it's important to remember that it's but a single observation. Even more thrilling is the fact that astronomers have just begun to exploit this capability. Gravitational-wave detectors are just beginning to tell us about some of the most violent events in the universe. I don't yet know what story they will tell us, but it's going to be fascinating. Original article on Live Science. A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket launches on Oct. 2, 2015, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The company's launch vehicles are a mainstay in the modern aerospace industry. United Launch Alliance (ULA) and Bigelow Aerospace will collaborate to place a space station in orbit around the moon by 2023, the companies announced in a joint statement today (Oct. 17). The collaboration comes as the U.S. government has grown increasingly interested in returning to the moon. ULA is itself a joint venture between the established aerospace companies Boeing and Lockheed Martin. ULA boasts three families of rockets Atlas V, Delta II and Delta IV which have launched a combined total of more than 1,300 missions, according to the company's website. Bigelow Aerospace made headlines in May 2016 when astronauts attached and activated the Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) to the International Space Station. The company's expandable habitats are lighter than traditional, rigid ones and collapse to fit more living space into a given rocket. [Bigelow Aerospace's Inflatable Space Stations (Infographic)] Two Bigelow Aerospace B330 modules are joined into an orbiting space station in this artist's conception of the company's expandable habitats. (Image credit: Bigelow Aerospace) The two companies plan to send another of Bigelow's expandable modules, called the B330, into low lunar orbit by late 2022, aboard one of ULA's Vulcan rockets, according to the joint statement.Unlike BEAM, the newer B330 is a stand-alone station, though according to Bigelow Aerospace, it still has the modular capabilities of its predecessor, with the capability to dock with the International Space Station, other B330s, and possibly additional spacecraft. The B330 could serve as a way station for future missions to the moon, said the statement said. "This lunar depot could be deployed easily by 2022 to support the nations re-energized plans for returning to the Moon," Bigelow Aerospace President Robert Bigelow said in the Oct. 17 statement. Lunar orbit is only one step in Bigelow's plans, however. The company's website lists dozens of applications for the B330, including use as a base on foreign bodies. "Our lunar depot plan is a strong complement to other plans intended to eventually put people on Mars," Bigelow said. Email Harrison Tasoff at htasoff@space.com or follow him @harrisontasoff. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com. Canadas new Governor General, Julie Payette, has a new coat of arms that reflects her also being a former Canadian Space Agency astronaut. As a Canadian astronaut, Julie Payette adopted the use of emblems to represent her missions and experiences in space. As Canada's Governor General, she now has a new symbol of her achievements a coat of arms. Appointed by Queen Elizabeth II and formally sworn in by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as Canada's 29th Governor General in Ottawa on Monday (Oct. 2), Payette serves as the Queen's representative as well as the commander-in-chief of the Canadian Armed Forces. "Many Canadians already know much of the story of Her Excellency's life," said Trudeau of Payette, in a statement for her inauguration. "As the second Canadian woman in space and only the fourth woman Governor General, Her Excellency has been and continues to be a trailblazer and an inspiration for all of us." [Record-Breaking Women in Spaceflight History] Selected as a Canadian Space Agency astronaut in 1992, Payette flew on two NASA space shuttle missions to the International Space Station, STS-96 in 1999 and STS-127 in 2009. She was the first Canadian to visit the station, and in total logged more than 25 days in space. Before her first launch, Payette worked with Quebec artist Gerard Dansereau to design a patch that represented her personal journey. "It has a rocket on it, a small rocket, and inside the rocket there is a star, a musical note, a crescent and a rose. And on top of the rocket, there was this little blue cat," Claire Boudreau of the Canadian Heraldic Authority described in a video accompanying the debut of Payette's coat of arms. "All of the elements have tons of meaning, so I thought that this was very interesting, that already in her past she had had the occasion to see herself in a design." Like Payette's personal mission patch, her coat of arms is also steeped in symbolism. The hand-drawn and painted design features two lynx cats flanking a shield decorated with a crown and a feathered wing. "When I was looking at photos of her, the way she looks at people, she has this frank and direct connection," stated Boudreau. "The animal that came into my mind, because I was looking for symbols, was the Canadian lynx." "It has a way to look at its environment, but it's discreet at the same time, so I really liked it," she said. Atop the shield are a musical stave (with the first notes of the second movement of composer Alessandro Marcello's "Oboe Concerto in D Minor") and an astronaut's helmet. Canadian Space Agency astronaut Julie Payette, seen in 1999 after her first spaceflight, wearing her personal mission patch. (Image credit: NASA) "What was clear to me was a desire, or acknowledgement, of the capacity of the human race of humans to go further, to transcend all boundaries," Boudreau explained. The lynxes stand atop the Earth, shown without borders. A banner spanning the planet reads, "Per Aspera Ad Astra," or "Through hardship to the stars." "I am an optimist but also a pragmatist," stated Payette in her first speech as Governor General. "It was clear, with the success of the International Space Station, that we can always do better together than on our own." "Somehow, the International Space Station, but also big science brings us, forces us to think not in a microcosm of nationality only, but to think in terms of what we could do to advance matters and to push the boundaries of science as partners in a collective spirit, and with a peaceful intent. It's promising, isn't it?" said Payette. Infographic explaining the symbolism behind Governor General Julie Payette's coat of arms. (Image credit: Governor General of Canada) Other imagery included on Payette's coat of arms include stars on the lynxes' collars, which are meant to symbolize "a spark of passion," and laurel leaves, as a subtle nod to Payette's 14-year-old son, Laurier Payette Flynn. In addition to being used on formal documents, Payette's personal coat of arms will also be struck on the Governor General's Academic Medal, awarded in bronze, silver and gold to Canadian students who excel in their classes. Watch a behind-the-scenes video about the creation of Governor General Julie Payettes coat of arms at collectSPACE.com. Follow collectSPACE.com on Facebook and on Twitter at @collectSPACE. Copyright 2017 collectSPACE.com. All rights reserved. New York (UN), Oct 8, 2017 (SPS) - Nigerias Ambssador Hussein Abdullahi has reiterated call to set a date for the holding of the self-determination referendum for the people of Western Sahara, in a statement to the UN General Assembly Fourth Committee General Debate on Decolonization. My delegation remains convinced that intensified and sincere negotiations to resolve these long-standing disputes would mitigate some of the potential conflicts spots in the Maghreb. In this regard, my delegation wishes to reiterate AU's call on the UN to determine a date for the holding of the self-determination referendum for the people of Western Sahara, he said. A high level of collaboration and cooperation between the United Nations and the AU on this issue remains crucial, especially considering the possible effects of the lack of a political solution to the question of Western Sahara on regional stability, amidst the growing threat of violent extremism. We must stress that a genuine political solution remains the best option for resolving this conflict but the commitment must be there for politics to produce a clear path to peace. We must again be reminded of the mandate of the UN Mission in Western Sahara to organize a referendum. The failure to hold that referendum remains blight on the integrity of the United Nations and a sad neglect of the fundamental obligation to uphold the rights of the people of Western Sahara, added Nigerias Ambssador Hussein Abdullahi in his statement to the UN General Assembly Fourth Committee General Debate on Decolonization. (SPS) 062/SPS S hould Notting Hill become Londons Catalonia? Is it time to rouse rebellion from the Hillgate hussars and the Ladbroke lancers as foretold by GK Chesterton in his Napoleon of Notting Hill. For Notting Hill has a real fight on its hands, as have a score of similar hubs across the capital. This year is the 50th anniversary of the idea of conservation areas, which have done more than anything to preserve Londons liveability and thus prosperity over years of breakneck development. Their progenitor, Duncan Sandys, wanted planning to respect not just individual buildings but the visual character of areas, rich and poor. Thus there are 62 areas in Lambeth, 56 in Westminster and 58 in Tower Hamlets. These areas have protected the appearance of Chelsea, Notting Hill and Bayswater, as well as Brick Lane, Peckham and New Cross. They have renewed public and private housing without the disruption, clearances and ugly estates of cities elsewhere. They have guarded the city on countless occasions when threatened with destruction. Not any more. Londons conservation areas have collapsed into absurdity. Those who live in these areas are barely allowed to repaint a front door without pernickety permission. If they try to overlook their neighbours with a new bathroom window, forget it. But if they want to overlook them with a 20-storey tower for Hong Kong investors they will have no problem. The planner hopes for a job with the developer. Notting Hills downtown has long been dominated by two squalid Sixties blocks that would discredit a Soviet suburb. The districts now ageing fashionistas have moved north to (conserved) Westbourne Grove, but Notting Hills main road fronts a neighbourhood of cottagey streets and squares of great charm. A developer now wants to replace the southern block with an 18-storey luxury tower of egregious ugliness. It would loom over the entire area a poke in the eye of residents from Bayswater to Holland Park and Ladbroke Grove. Its intrusion brazenly offends the very idea of a conservation area. The worry is that Kensington and Chelsea council is so broken-backed by the Grenfell tower disaster that it has given up on these fights. When a developer promises more housing, what can it say, especially when a handful of affordable units are tossed in as a bribe? The term affordable means 20 per cent cheaper than astronomical and has nothing to do with genuine social housing for the poor that Kensington badly needs. Housing to Kensington council means gated communities of empty luxury properties, such as the ghostly blocks of Campden Hill and Kensington Road. This is the only borough in south-east England that is actually losing population. Planning conservation areas is not about uses or occupants, which change over time. It is about massing and intruding, and is for all time. That is why a Paddington developer should not be able to smash up the Praed Street conservation area, demolishing the old baroque sorting office, so as to erect an obscene 19-storey glass cube in return for a new entrance to the station. Conservation is not about these deals. Westminsters decision to abandon its conservation-area philosophy says that, if the moneys good, conservation does not matter. It is sad that this comes from a council whose wealth has, for half a century, been built on meticulous respect for its architectural environment, mostly under the leadership of the late Sir Simon Milton, much-missed. The Paddington decision was inexplicably approved by the anti-communities secretary Sajid Javid. Without so much as giving a reason, he signalled his de facto demolition of the 1957 conservation-area concept, a decision that has, thank goodness, gone to judicial review. The judge may care to look at the declaration of interests of Westminster council members. But it is wrong that judges should have to intervene to protect Londoners from their planners. The planners are supposed to be the protectors. Cases such as Notting Hill and Paddington can be replicated across the capital. A landmark 40-storey tower with grey, silver and bronze-coloured metal cladding is being proposed to soar over the conservation area south of the Old Kent Road at Burgess Park. Another of 32 storeys is proposed as a gateway to Lewisham. Another is to loom over Acton. My beloved Camden is under siege on all sides. I wonder why the Notting Hill developer stopped at 18 storeys unless someone told him he could overlook anyones bedroom window but not Prince Williams in Kensington Palace. In every case I have come across, the developer promises much-needed homes for Londoners, and then flogs them in Malaysia. None of the tower blocks on the Thames adds to Londons residential stock. They are financial laundromats in the sky London is the only city in Europe with no control on the appearance of its horizon. You can build any height you want. The mayoralties of Ken Livingstone and Boris Johnson left a skyline that draws gasps of horror from every foreign visitor I show round. The visual rape of the Thames continues apace, with a monster south of Blackfriars Bridge, bulging in its middle like an anaconda swallowing a horse, to maximise lettable floor area. None of these towers adds to Londons residential stock. They are financial laundromats in the sky. There is no argument that London has exceptionally low housing densities, both in persons per room and in houses per acre. But that should mean incentives to downsizing, by slashing stamp duty and ramping up council tax. It should encourage renting. It should also mean extra space, without Londoners having to sprawl over the green belt and using time and energy getting to work. There is nothing wrong in replicating the high densities of the Victorian streets of Pimlico and Wapping, or in developing the myriad backlands and mews that occupy much of Londons land area. Empty towers are nothing to do with the case. If Londoners are not to be consulted on the overall appearance of their city, they can at least wax angry over local outrages. Notting Hill needs its Napoleons, and Paddington its bears. L acking cogency and competence, the Government is going nowhere fast with its Brexit strategy. Whatever Theresa May says, leaving the EU with no deal is not a viable option. At what point does the Prime Minister decide to put the national interest before party political considerations and fundamentally reconsider her approach? Greater honesty about the likely impacts of Brexit would be a good start. Nothing about Brexit is the incontrovertible, settled will of the British people; fewer than 38 per cent of the electorate actively voted for it in the referendum. As with any divorce, people can change their minds at any time before the decree absolute. Only ideologues are seeking a hard Brexit. But you have to wonder how many of them will actually stick around to pick up the pieces if the British lion then turns out to have a bad case of roar-inhibiting laryngitis? Andrew Smith Professor Charlotte Roueche [Letters, October 13] claims that 52 per cent of the electorate voted against remaining in the EU. The actual percentage of the electorate that voted for Brexit was 37 per cent, which is hardly a majority of anything, and, as a consequence, the real majority of us are being railroaded into something we are actively against. Whatever this is, the result certainly was not democratic. First past the post always delivers the greatest minority in government, permanently disenfranchising the majority of us. Only changing the system would provide a fair and democratic result. Sebastian Wheen Your editorial [Comment, October 13], by calling hardline Brexiteers ideologues, stands the facts on their head. The ideologues are the Remainers who wish to see the UK continue to be subsumed into a European super-state, one whose contempt for democracy is shown by the EUs failure to condemn the Spanish police for attacking innocent civilians trying to vote. What on earth is ideological about simply wanting to get control of ones country back? Tim Janman With the Brexit debacle showing no signs of improvement or positive progression, what we are seeing demonstrated is a lack of strategic negotiating skills and the cross-cultural sensitivity required for such an important national issue. However, every cloud has a silver lining, and one can only hope we are learning some important lessons from the failings of this disastrous and rather embarrassing attempt to leave the EU. I foresee these skills coming to some use in the future when we try to buy back in. Gurpreet Bhatia Our public services need more For seven years the Government has inflicted pay cuts on public-sector workers across the country. Yet these are part of a wider context of cuts on our most valuable public services. Realising the futility of their decision, ministers have suggested the pay cap may be eased. They have not, however, confirmed whether this will be joined with a much-needed fresh injection of cash into our schools, hospitals and emergency services. It is imperative that the Government not only lifts the public-sector pay cap, but also starts to properly fund our great public services as a matter of urgency. Cllr Jun Bo Chan, Brent council (Lab) Lucy Masoud, firefighter Dr Tom Dolphin, GP Danielle Tiplady, nurse War victims' graves are being re-used Your article on the re-use of graves in Camberwell only illustrates a small part of this London-wide issue [October 13]. Graves of Blitz victims have already been overfilled and re-used at New Southgate. The City of London Cemetery in the east of the city has already re-used 1,500 graves. Graves are under threat at Manor Park cemetery, including many from the Columbia Market air-raid shelter disaster on the first day of the Blitz. Should the war graves of civilians, as listed at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, not also be respected like those of the military? Geoff Twist More exhibition changes, please Like Andrew Marr, I regret that the Scottish National Gallerys True to Life exhibition will not travel down to London. But Edinburgh has sent part of the excellent Burrell Collection down to London for the Drawn in Colour Degas exhibition, and the Beyond Caravaggio exhibition just closed in Edinburgh, where it had travelled from Londons National Gallery. There should be more exchanges, starting with the Ed Ruscha exhibition, please. Joyce Glasser Met ruling is a licence to burgle As a retired police officer and lifetime Londoner, I was appalled to hear that the Met is no longer investigating low-level crime, including burglary. Quite how burglary can be viewed as unworthy of investigation is beyond me. It is a devastating crime, and victims not only need support and reassurance, they also need advice to prevent it happening again. What about shopkeepers, who are already plagued by thieves and anti-social behaviour? Have we reached a stage where thugs can walk into a shop and take whatever they want? The public understands the damage the Governments cuts have had on policing. However, if this policy is implemented, public confidence will wane and a significant gulf will develop between the Met and the people of London, who will rightly feel less secure. Chris Hobbs Hilton has ability to see both sides I am delighted that your columnist Anthony Hilton has been nominated as Economics Writer of the Year. It is interesting to read gloomy articles about how Jeremy Corbyns Labour Party will be dangerous for Britains economy, before turning to Hilton in the Business section explaining how it wouldnt be so bad, and how after years of short-termism and lack of investment in skills by business, nationalisation might be better. I hope Hilton wins and perhaps Corbyn too. Laurie Smith A correction on the history of Cyprus In response to Tim Coopers article [Another view: why family holidays are always stressful], I would like to highlight the misleading reference in it regarding Turkish-Cypriot history. Turkey does not own Northern Cyprus but invaded that part of the Republic of Cyprus with two illegal invasions in 1974, keeping to this day under invasion and continued occupation 37 per cent of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus. Fanoulla Argyrou O ver the past few years, Prince George has captured the hearts of the nation with his cheeky personality, and royalists have been keen to know more about the daily comings and goings of the future heir to the throne. Now The Duke of Cambridge has revealed what his son Georges favourite film is - and its a very relatable classic for the young royal. During a recent engagement, Prince William was quizzed on the young kings viewing habits and the movies he loves to watch over and over. He quite likes The Lion King, weve watched that a few times, the Duke answered in an interview, which was posted to Twitter. The 1994 Disney film, which is an animated musical all about a lion cub who rules the animal kingdom, is an apt choice for George, who is third in line for the throne. Weve watched Octonauts several times, he has watched some Lego movies as well, so hes watched a lot of things like that, Prince William continued. The Duke of Cambridge also revealed that keeping cheeky George away from the TV was turning into a bit of a power struggle. Trying to keep him off the television is hard work, he added. Prince George - In pictures 1 /10 Prince George - In pictures Having a ball Prince George makes little friends on tour Playtime Prince George mixes with the baby masses Family portrait The Cambridges are snapped in an informal setting Standing tall An adoring Kate helps Prince George get up on his own two feet Touchdown The Duchess of Cambridge is a hands-on mother William in 1983 Charles and Diana were surrounded by staff Going solo Prince William keeping himself occupied during the royal tour in 1983 William in 1983 Prince William was often in the arms of his nanny The Duke revealed earlier this month that Prince George was, rather relatably, already fed up of going to school. Despite looking nervous on his first day, his father revealed that the little Princes excitement for full-time education is waning and that he struggles to get him to the school gates every day. "I just dropped George off and he didn't want to go, the Duke told a fellow parent on a visit to Milton Keynes. And who can blame him really? When it comes to trudging out in the grim October weather or sitting on the sofa watching Disney films on repeat - we know which one wed choose. I t will take 170 years to close the gender pay gap around the world completely, according to the World Economic Forum. In the UK, female managers earn 12,000 less than their male counterparts, according to new research published in September. An infographic from business e-card specialist Ecard Shack shows which countries score best for gender equality, in order to predict which nations will be next to close the gender pay gap. Using data from the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report, Business Insider has pulled together a list of the countries around the world with the largest gender pay gaps. The Global Gender Gap Report compares attitudes towards gender equality around the world, considering factors such as educational opportunities available to each gender, life expectancy, literacy rates, the number of women in professional positions, and in positions of power in each country. The WEF surveyed men and women in 135 countries on the extent to which wages for women are equal to those of men in their country, asking them to use a scale of one to seven. Seven indicated a fully equal salary thus a non-existent pay gap while one declared that pay was not at all equal, with a woman's pay totalling significantly less than a man's in a similar job role. Rwanda ranked first in the world for residents' opinions towards the gender pay gap, scoring 6.14 out of seven. The UK came 41st out of the 135 participating countries, scoring 4.72, while the US scored 4.57, coming in at 66th place. Scroll on to discover the 15 countries with the biggest gender pay gap according to its residents, ranked in ascending order. The list also includes each country's overall gender quality score, which indicates how much each country has worked towards closing its gender pay gap with a score of 1 indicating full gender parity though this figure had no impact on our ranking. =14. Slovakia Ranking 94th overall thanks to the equal level of education attained by both boys and girls, Slovakia only scored 3.75 out of seven for its gender pay gap. Gender pay gap score: 3.75 Rank: 121st Overall score: 0.679 AFP/Getty Images =14. Bangladesh Bangladesh ranked poorly for both gender wage equality (3.75) female literacy (58%), reaching 122nd and 114th place in these respective fields. Gender pay gap score: 3.75 Rank: 122nd Overall score: 0.698 13. Morocco Morocco ranked 137th out of 144 countries for gender equality overall and scored 3.74 for wage equality, thus ranking amongst the worst nations for both. Gender pay gap score: 3.74 Rank: 123rd Overall score: 0.597 AFP/Getty Images 12. Poland Despite ranking 38th for gender equality overall, Poland places only 124th for its gender pay gap, scoring 3.72. Gender pay gap score: 3.72 Rank: 124th Overall score: 0.727 11. South Korea The South Korean workforce reportedly includes equal numbers of men and women. However, wage equality scores only 3.67 out of seven. Gender pay gap score: 3.67 Rank: 125th Overall score: 0.649 AFP/Getty Images =9. Argentina Argentina ranks in the top quarter of countries for gender equality overall, but places 126th based solely on its gender pay gap, scoring 3.58. Gender pay gap score: 3.58 Rank: 126th Overall score: 0.735 =9. Italy 74% of women in Italy enrol in higher education compared to just 58% of men. Nevertheless, Italy's gender pay gap is joint ninth worst in the world, scoring 3.58. Gender pay gap score: 3.58 Rank: 127th Overall score: 0.719 AFP/Getty Images 8. Mexico Low levels of female participation in the workforce in Mexico has amounted to a large gender pay gap, scoring a mere 3.55 out of seven. Gender pay gap score: 3.55 Rank: 128th Overall score: 0.700 7. Brazil With a low percentage of women in jobs of significant power, such as in parliament or ministerial positions, Brazil only scrapes a wage equality score of 3.48 and came in 129th place for its gender pay gap. Gender pay gap score: 3.48 Rank: 129th Overall score: 0.687 AFP/Getty Images 6. Hungary According to the report's findings, the average Hungarian woman gets paid 60% less than the average male due to fewer women taking senior or managerial positions in the workplace. As a result, Hungry scores a mere 3.46 out of seven for its gender pay gap. Gender pay gap score: 3.46 Rank: 130th Overall score: 0.669 5. Peru With only one woman in Peruvian parliament to every three men, Peru scores just 3.43 for wage equality. Gender pay gap score: 3.43 Rank: 131st Overall score: 0.687 AFP/Getty Images 4. Bolivia Bolivia scores a respectable 0.746 for gender parity, placing 23rd overall, despite only climbing to 132nd place for its gender wage gap with a score of 3.42. Gender pay gap: 3.42 Rank: 132nd Overall score: 0.746 3. Chile In Chile, 16% of young women aren't employed or in education, compared to 8% of young men, which could be a factor contributing to the low gender wage gap score of 3.38. Gender pay gap score: 3.38 Rank: 133rd Overall score: 0.699 AFP/Getty Images 2. France France scores 17th best in the world for gender equality and is reportedly 75.5% of the way towards gender parity. Nevertheless, residents have still rated their country as second worst in the world for its gender pay gap with a score of 3.32. Gender pay gap score: 3.32 Rank: 134th Overall score: 0.755 1. Angola Angola has the most significant gender pay gap in the world, scoring just 2.83 out of seven. With few women in managerial positions in the workplace or in parliament, the Angolan workplace is largely male-dominated, hugely affecting the average woman's wage as a result. Gender pay gap score: 2.83 Rank: 135th Overall score: 0.643 About 4% of people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or winter depression. People with SAD may also be at a higher risk of becoming alcoholics. There are both environmental and genetic reasons for this. Days become a lot shorter, colder, and darker when we enter into late autumn. It gets even worse when the clocks go back an hour on October 29th. The gloomy weather can make it harder for many people to get out of bed, be social, and exercise enough. However, for some people it's more than just feeling a bit demotivated. According to the AAFP, 4-6% of people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as winter depression, which has symptoms such as a persistent low mood, irritability, feelings of despair and worthlessness, lethargy, comfort eating, and weight gain. The National Health Service website says the most popular theory for SAD is that we don't get enough sunlight in the autumn and winter months, and this stops the hypothalamus working properly the part of the brain responsible for hormones. The brain may produce more melatonin than usual, which is the hormone that makes us feel sleepy. A lack of sunlight may also cause lower levels of serotonin, a happy hormone, meaning you may feel less motivated and energetic. Many people don't know they have SAD or that there are treatments available. There are treatments for SAD, such as light therapy. However, if people aren't aware of these, or even the fact they have the disorder, some scientific evidence shows they could be at a higher risk of developing other problems, such as alcohol dependency. One study from 2017, published in the journal European Psychiatry, looked at the behaviour of 4,880 Finnish participants, and found that those with SAD showed higher prevalence of alcohol disorders. Lead author Isabel Morales, from the National Institute for Health and Welfare, Finland in Helsinki, told Business Insider that family studies suggest that there is a link between alcoholism and SAD, and genetic and environmental factors play a role in both. Many studies have focused on serotonin and SAD, especially a particular gene that is responsible for the serotonin transporter. There have also been studies that look at the connection between this gene and alcoholism, finding that alcoholic patients have a higher frequency of a particular variant of the gene compared to nonalcoholic control participants. "The ability of the serotonin transporter gene to affect both seasonality and alcohol use may be related to the anatomy and physiology of the brains serotonergic system," Morales told Business Insider. "Considerable evidence from animal and human studies suggest that serotonin is linked to different functions, such as mood, aggression, feeding, and sleep. Abnormalities of serotonergic function is believed to be involved in depression, impulsivity, and suicide." She added that a dysfunction in releasing serotonin may be associated with behaviours relevant to develop alcoholism, such as a low response to alcohol intake. There may be a genetic link between SAD and alcoholism. "Furthermore, there may be a genetic link between seasonality and alcoholism," Morales said. "This relationship is complex and involves various factors." For example, your personality type may predispose you to both seasonality and drinking too much. Also certain environmental and social factors during the colder months can contribute to developing SAD in alcoholic patients. "For example, due to the colder climate in winter, people spend more time indoors where there is greater contact with alcohol and increased likelihood of drinking," she said. "To sum up, SAD may be a subtype of mood disorder that is closely related to alcoholism." In the discussion of the studies, Morales and the other authors Seppo Koskinen and Timo Partonen note that SAD patients crave carbohydrates and sugars, and tend to gain weight from overeating. "Given the well-established links between binge eating and addiction disorders, it is also suggested that seasonality, together with the same high-risk psychological profile, exacerbates the likelihood of engaging in a broad range of addictive behaviors, such as alcoholism," they write. Seeking comfort in the winter months is normal, and when we consume more food it's usually just our bodies adjusting to the colder weather. However, if you feel there is something more going on, you can talk to your GP who may recommend some lifestyle measures, such as making sure you get as much natural sunlight as possible, exercising regularly, and managing your stress levels. Light therapy and talking therapy are also available as treatment options, and antidepressants are sometimes offered if they are needed. T hree drug dealers were today found guilty of murdering a teenager shot dead with a semi-automatic pistol in a revenge killing. Abdifatah Sheikhey, 19, was blasted in the chest and stomach as he sat in the passenger seat of a black Mercedes car following an earlier armed confrontation in a chicken shop. Sami Omar, 21, shouted F*** off, I didnt do nothing as he was taken down after an Old Bailey jury reached a majority verdict following more than 25 hours of deliberations. Omar, Jordi Kibusi, 21, and Suleman Mohamed, 20, all from Ilford, were found guilty of murder over the attack in Ilford, east London, on March 21. Guilty: Sami Omar, Suleman Mohamed and Jordi Kibusi / Metropolitan Police Prosecutor Anthony Orchard QC had told jurors that before the shooting Mr Sheikhey was involved in a knife fight with Omar at Chesters chicken shop in Ilford Lane. Then, on the evening of March 21, Mr Sheikhey was driving in a black Mercedes car with two friends as a BMW followed behind containing the gunman, jurors were told. Mr Orchard said: "A figure, with his face covered, left the vehicle and shouted to the front passenger side window of the Mercedes. "The man was in possession of a firearm which was held at waist height. Several shots were heard." Mr Sheikhey, from Ilford, was pronounced dead soon after 11pm that night. In all, the gunman fired seven bullets at the victim from a .32 semi-automatic pistol, five of which hit their mark. The murder weapon was never recovered. Mr Orchard said: "The prosecution cannot say with certainty which of the three men was the gunman, although it was Sami Omar who had the motive for revenge." All three defendants had accepted they were present at the time of the shooting but denied being involved. Detective Chief Inspector Chris Jones, of Scotland Yard, said: "This senseless murder - believed to have been committed in retaliation for a clash between the victim and one of the suspects - has devastated Abdifatah's family. The defendants were remanded in custody to be sentenced at a later date. T he family of a young economics graduate murdered for his iPhone told today how they found him dying on his doorstep. Charity worker Abdul Samad, 28, stumbled to the front door of his block and buzzed for help after he witnesses said he was attacked in the street for his mobile by thugs on a moped. His devastated brother, Abdul Ahad, told how his parents rushed to help him as he lay fatally injured outside his home in Little Venice. He was taken to St Marys Hospital in Paddington, where he was born, but died an hour later. Mr Ahad told the Standard how Mr Samad worked for charity Dragon Hall Trust helping young Londoners develop their computer skills. Charity worker Abdul Samad, 28, stumbled to the front door of his block and buzzed for help before being pronounced dead in hospital He said: He loved helping children. Thats the sort of person he was. This is a young life gone and such a lovely life. He was full of energy and loved the kids he worked with. Youre not going to find a nicer person. It was over a phone, its just so senseless. He came to the door here and buzzed and was covered in blood. The knife went through his heart. He pressed the buzzer and my mum and dad came down and he was lying there on the floor. My mum then called me and said youre brother is dying. When I got here he looked half dead already. He added: My brother has never done anything wrong and never been in trouble with the police. Another man was stabbed to death last night at Parsons Green Tube station / Nigel Howard "He was geeky and loved his computers and thats why he was helping the young people. I could understand if it was some kind of postcode war but hes not that type of person, his friends are all geeks. He was born in St Marys Hospital and hes died there. We want these people to go to jail and never come out. Two men were stabbed to death within hours of each other last night He told how the parents of Mr Samad, who studied economics at the University of Westminster, originally settled from Bangladesh in the 60s in search of a better life for their children. He had been at a friends house playing computer games before leaving because he had work early today. However, the family said witnesses saw Mr Samad being approached by youths on a moped outside his flat in St Marys Terrace, who tried to steal his iPhone 7. It is thought he may have been stabbed during a struggle at about 11.45pm last night. He was pronounced dead in hospital just before 1am this morning. The friend said: He was on his own only for a few metres after I left him after we got some food. He said he had to go home early because he had work early today. There were a couple of guys on mopeds who approached him, theyre always riding around here, and they tried to get his iPhone 7. We think he must have fought back or something. The killing came just hours after a young man was chased down and killed by a moped-riding assailant outside Parsons Green Underground station. The 20-year-old was treated by medics but died at the scene in front of distraught family members who rushed to his aid, witnesses said. Two other men were also taken to hospital after being stabbed in the first attack at around 7.30pm. One witness, who did not want to be named, said: I heard a load of shouting. There were two guys being chased up the road by a guy on a moped. He was on the pavement trying to run them off. The guy on the moped then drove on ahead under the bridge and started shouting Im going to f****** do you. The guy who was killed was shouting back. The victim had a face mask on, like a balaclava. Then the guy on the moped has jumped off. Theyve had an altercation and hes put the other guy on the floor and stabbed him. Another witness said : The bike mounted the kerb and the guy was shouting. The one that died looked as if he had been stabbed in the throat. "People went to him and tried to stop the blood flow. He was revived about three times. Another guy was stabbed further up the road, it was carnage. Paramedics battled to save him but he died at the scene. The incident took place a month after a bomb exploded at the District Line station during the morning rush hour. Although the bomb failed to fully detonate at least 30 people were injured. Witnesses said the moped driver fled on foot before being accosted by a third man outside Parsons Fish Bar. Both men were reportedly stabbed in the incident. Police said two men were taken to hospital with minor injuries. One remains in hospital while the other has been discharged and arrested in connection with the killing, police said. Residents of the surrounding streets, where terraced houses sell for 2 million, were unable to enter their homes due to the large police cordon. Anyone with information should call 0208 785 8099 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. A man who beat his girlfriend's five-year-old son to death because he lost a shoe has had his sentence increased by senior judges in London. Marvyn Iheanacho, 39, is currently serving an 18-year minimum term sentence after murdering Alex, the son of his ex-partner, in a park in Catford. Little Alex died in hospital from head and stomach injuries two days after the brutal attack in November last year. One of his trainers was later found in the play area by police. On Tuesday, three Court of Appeal judges agreed with with Solicitor General Robert Buckland that 18 years was "unduly lenient", and did not adequately reflect the "serious aggravating features" of the case. Guilty of murder: Marvyn Iheanacho (Metropolitan Police) Lord Justice Treacy, Mr Justice Jay and Mr Justice Warby added three more years on to his minimum term of the jail sentence to 21 years. The shoe that was lost in the park / PA Lord Justice Treacy announced: "In our judgment the minimum term of 18 years did not adequately reflect the serious aggravating features of this case, which relate not only to the offence itself but also to the offender's past violent criminal conduct." His previous convictions showed he had a "deeply entrenched streak of violence within him". One of the victim's shoes, found at his home / PA Lord Justice Treacy said Iheanacho had attacked a vulnerable young child when he was in a position of trust, and did not get medical assistance for Alex "when it was clear he required urgent care". Iheanacho, from Hounslow, west London, had denied murdering Alex, but was convicted in July after a trial at Woolwich Crown Court and jailed for life. Witnesses heard a child's fearful voice saying "sorry", loud banging and a man screaming about the loss of a shoe during the attack in Mountsfield Park Iheanacho has a string of previous convictions for violent offences, including attacks on ex-partners and robbery. A man murdered a refugee and cut off his penis just hours after being released from a psychiatric hospital. Jeffrey Barry, 56, who has paranoid schizophrenia, attacked his neighbour Kamil Ahmad after believing him to be a rapist, paedophile and terrorist. The tragic murder took place at Mr Ahmads flat on Wells Road, Bristol, in July last year, hours after Barry was released from psychiatric hospital. A jury unanimously convicted Barry, who is being held at Broadmoor Hospital, of murder following a two-week trial. Months before killing Mr Ahmad, Barry told support workers he wanted to be a notorious killer, adding: Kamil would be top of my list. He wrote notes saying he planned to kill people in the house, a multi-occupancy for adults requiring support, and also phoned police making false claims about Mr Ahmad. Kurdish refugee Kamil Ahmad was described by his family as a "a deeply loved member of our family". / PA On the day of the murder, Barry left Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke in Weston-super-Mare, after a mental health tribunal had previously ruled he was well enough to be released. He had previously relapsed and stopped taking the drug clozapine because it weakened his immune system. He also started drinking heavily and smoking skunk cannabis. Consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Roger Thomas said the tribunal was unaware of how long Barry had been off clozapine. A handwritten note seized from the home of Jeffrey Barry. / PA It was also unaware of his recent relapse, or of concerns raised by staff at the Milestones Trust, which manages the Wells Road property. They attempted to get an injunction to protect Mr Ahmad but there was not enough time. Barry returned to Bristol at about 5.30pm and was seen with seven drinks in two bars. Jeffrey Barry had a relapse and stopped taking his medication months before the murder. / PA At 1am on July 7, having returned to his flat, Barry called a helpline answered by community psychiatric nurse and said he felt like punching somebody, the court heard. "He responded by saying that he was criminally insane and not responsible for his actions, and ended the call." CCTV images showed Barry knocking on Mr Ahmad's door at 1.30am and leaving, covered in blood, at 2.15am. Barry had paranoid schizophrenia. / PA Barry called 999, reporting that he had killed Mr Ahmad, and told the operator: "Course it's murder isn't it? I'm going to say diminished responsibility." The day after the murder, police discovered a note in Barry's room saying: "The fact is, I have acted out my entire psychiatric history. I'm very well. Sorry." Home Office pathologist Dr Amanda Jeffery examined Mr Ahmad's body and found injuries to his face, head and neck. There were 25 stab wounds to his face, including his eyes, and fatal stab wounds to his stomach, right arm and left wrist. Mr Ahmad's penis had been cut off after his death. John Hoskinson, chief executive of the Milestones Trust, said an internal review was being conducted, as well as other investigations. A Safeguarding Adults Review, looking into the circumstances of Mr Ahmad's death, has been commissioned. Detective Chief Inspector Richard Ocone, of Avon and Somerset Police, said Barry "knew exactly what he was doing" when he attacked Mr Ahmad. "The public are now much safer with him off the streets for he is an exceptionally dangerous man," he added. Barry will be sentenced on November 10. Mr Ahmad's brother, Kamaran Ahmad Ali, described him as a "much loved brother, uncle and cousin". T his is the first picture of a young man who was killed in a triple stabbing outside a Tube station after he approached a drug dealer and asked him to move on. Omid Saidy, 20, was heard screaming for help as he lay injured in the road outside Parsons Green station in west London on Monday evening. He was treated by medics but died at the scene in front of distraught family members who had raced to be by his side. Scotland Yard said Mr Saidy, from Fulham, confronted a drug dealer and another man and asked them to move on before he was attacked. He chased the two suspects along Beconsfield Walk and was stabbed when he caught up with them, police said. Mr Saidy was pronounced dead in Parsons Green Lane at about 8.30pm. One man was arrested after the attack / Nigel Howard A witness, who did not want to be named, told the Standard: He was shouting help for ages when he was lying on the floor. His brother and sister turned up and were trying to help. I heard someone say hes breathing again, then about ten minutes later I heard screaming, hes dead, hes dead. Mr Saidys friend, a 20-year-old man, came to his aid, arriving in the street on a moped and was also knifed. His moped crashed into a parked car, Scotland Yard said. He remained in hospital on Tuesday evening. His injuries are serious but not life threatening. Witnesses heard the victim pleading for help in the street / Nigel Howard One of the suspects, a black male dressed in dark clothing, fled down Harbled Road towards Fulham Court. A second suspect, a 16-year-old boy who is described as a white male youth, also suffered stab wounds and was taken to hospital. He has since been discharged from hospital and arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. He was taken to a west London police station where he remained on Tuesday evening. The man was pronounced dead at 8.30pm last night / Nigel Howard Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh of the Mets Homicide and Major Crime Command who is leading the investigation said: "At this early stage we are piecing together a picture of how the sequence of events leading to and immediately following the murder took place. "It is imperative that we speak to anyone who was in the area of Parsons Green station between 7pm and 8pm who may have witnessed the murder or the actions of the suspects immediately following the incident. "In addition, I am keen to identify the black male who fled Parsons Green Lane immediately following the murder and am appealing for footage that members of the public may have recorded as events in the area took place. "A young man has tragically lost his life for simply asking a drug dealer to move on. I urge anyone who can assist our investigation to come forward without delay." Anyone with information is asked to contact police on their incident room number of 0208 785 8099 or to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. T he headteacher of a primary school has apologised after children were asked to come to school dressed as slaves in dirty and worn out clothes for Black History Month. Parents of six- and seven-year-olds at St Winefrides Catholic Primary school, in Manor Park, were sent a letter asking them to dress their children for a special assembly. The letter suggested that the clothes could be left unwashed and stained with tea or coffee to make them look more authentic. Girls were encouraged to wear straw hats or fabric head wraps and boys were asked to wear straw hats or berets. Locals discussing the incident on Facebook branded the idea horrendous. One parent told the Newham Recorder: You wouldnt ask Jewish children to come in and re-enact the Holocaust. But she said the incident was probably because of an individual teacher rather than being representative of the schools general approach. The mother pointed out that the school had put on a wide range of Black History Month activities, including inviting poet Benjamin Zephaniah to speak to children. Headteacher Paul Underwood apologised on behalf of the school, saying that the letter was unauthorised. He said it was not seen by senior members of staff before being sent out and that another letter has subsequently been sent to the same group of year two parents, apologising for the original letter. He is also writing to all parents at the school today to explain the incident. A spokeswoman for the school said: We deeply regret the offence caused to our pupils and school community. This letter was sent out without the approval of the schools senior management team or governors. We have written to those who received the letter to apologise and we have also spoken to the members of staff involved and taken steps to ensure an incident like this does not happen again. We are also speaking to our human resources department regarding any disciplinary actions that need to be taken. We understand the importance of Black History Month and celebrate this by studying the success and achievements of black role models. The content of this letter is not in keeping with the ethos of the school or a reflection of how the school celebrates Black History Month. Black History Month UK is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. L ondon was shrouded in darkness again on the second day of a dust phenomenon caused by Storm Ophelia. Sky-watchers described the atmosphere as apocalyptic as disrupted weather systems from the storm tinted the clouds above the capital a dark sepia colour. Pictures taken from the viewing platform on the Shard showed the gloomy clouds blanketing the sprawling city on Tuesday afternoon. One Londoner described the atmosphere across the city as spooky", and several commented that it was akin to a partial eclipse. Journalist Gianluca Mezzofiore shared images of the Piccadilly Circus billboards lit up against the dark sky. Spectators gathered at Primrose Hill to marvel at the view over London for a second day running. On Monday, skies above London were tinged orange after dust from Africa and southern Europe was pulled up by the storm. Hurricane Ophelia: Red Sun - In pictures 1 /29 Hurricane Ophelia: Red Sun - In pictures The Sun goes red again, viewed from top of Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn View: people gathered at top of Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn The Sun goes red again, viewed from top of Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn A plane flies past the Shard in central London, as the sky takes on an unusual orange colour caused by Storm Ophelia Dominic Lipinski/PA Saharan dust pulled over from Africa cast the sun red, experts said. Bella A Morley (Twitter) A stunning London skyline caused by Saharan dust is seen from ITV's South Bank John Manthorpe A sepia-tinted Thames on Monday. Tig Wallace A red sun spotted in the sky over Bromsgrove in Worcestershire, which was caused by Storm Ophelia Neil Pugh/DecisiveImaging/PA A woman photographs the sun rise at Penarth Pier as Hurricane Ophelia approaches the west coast of the United Kingdom Getty Images The red sun as seen from north London on Monday. TCV Green Gym (Twitter) The pretty sky over London. Petals of Perfection (Twitter) 'Everything's gone sepia', one Londoner remarked as pictures showed an orange glow. Phil73 (Twitter) The sky over the Thames was atmospheric on Monday. francislarawan (Twitter) The Met Office reported that storm Ophelia has drawn dust north from the Sahara, near Exeter, causing the strange sight Toby Melville/Reuters The red sun appeared dramatic in the sky. Sue Childs (Twitter) A fisherman looks on at Penarth Pier as Hurricane Ophelia approaches the west coast of the United Kingdom in Penarth, Wales Getty Images An eerie sky looms over Kensington The sky above London darkened much sooner than sunset because of the bizarre weather sparked by Ophelia. francislarawan (Twitter) At 4.20pm, London already looked like night. francislarawan (Twitter) A red sun over london Jeremy Selwyn A red sun over london Jeremy Selwyn A red sun over london Jeremy Selwyn A health warning had been issued amid fears that the dust could return, posing a serious risk to asthma sufferers. According to experts at the Met Office, the spectacle is caused by the storm pushing warm air from Africa northwards which carries Saharan dust. As the air moved north towards Ireland and the UK, it gathered smoke and tiny debris from recent wildfires in Spain and Portugal. Sonia Munde, head of the helpline at Asthma UK, said: "We are deeply concerned about the toxic air from Saharan dust that Hurricane Ophelia has churned up, as this could pose a severe risk for the 5.4 million people in the UK who have asthma. "Winds picking up dust and particles in the air could trigger potentially fatal asthma attacks." View: people gathered at top of Primrose Hill / Jeremy Selwyn Three people were killed as the storm swept across the UK and Ireland on Monday and Tuesday. Road and rail services in Scotland were thrown into turmoil as the former hurricane continued its destructive path after hitting Ireland. Hurricane Ophelia: Twitter's Yellow Skies 1 /20 Hurricane Ophelia: Twitter's Yellow Skies Twitter/@thehotdogshop Twitter/@thehotdogshop Bella A Morley (Twitter) John Manthorpe Twitter/@ekturner Twitter/@ekturner79 Petals of Perfection (Twitter) Farnham Twitter/@proftomquinn Twitter/@proftomquinn Canary Wharf Twitter/@pomeoyreuters Twitter/@PomeroyReuters Stratford Twitter/@davidwi05193231 Twitter/@davidwi05193231 Twitter/@clouca29 Twitter/@clouca29 Twitter/@1daddyspice Twitter/@1daddyspice Balham Twitter/@novabarbora Twitter/@novabarbora Tig Wallace TCV Green Gym (Twitter) Phil73 (Twitter) @loisollerenshaw One woman was killed in the south of the country when a tree fell on her car in the storm. Later, a man in Ravensdale, Dundalk, died later in similar circumstances, while another man in his 30s was killed in a chainsaw accident in Cahir, Co Tipperary, as he tried to remove a tree torn down by the storm. T he Prime Minister, Theresa May, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, today backed a major new anti-slavery project by the Church of England. Working across all 42 English dioceses, over the next three years The Clewer Initiative, launched at Lambeth Palace today, will encourage parishes to support victims and spot the signs of modern slavery in their communities, as well as partnering with other local organisations. Modern slavery is a barbaric crime which destroys the lives of some of the most vulnerable in our society, said Mrs May. Tackling modern slavery is one of my priorities as Prime Minister. However, the Government cannot tackle this problem alone and this is why the efforts of organisations and groups such as the Clewer Initiative are so important. We See You Archbishop Welby said: Those who purposefully constrain, confine and traffick and enslave people will face the judgment of God for their terrible sins. But we can change it so easily, and so quickly. We can set people free, set our society and nation free from the scourge of slavery simply by removing our blindfolds. The Prime Minister has praised the investigation into modern slavery / PA The Church of England is the latest organisation to announce a crackdown on modern slavery since the Evening Standard launched its special investigation into the issue last month. Dr Alastair Redfern, the Bishop of Derby, who chairs the anti-slavery advisory panel for the IASC, said modern slavery would continue to flourish without public awareness. We can act as eyes and ears in our communities to help identify victims, he said. Training sessions are already under way to help identify victims in the construction industry and at car washes. Last week the Evening Standard revealed how car washes were hotbeds of exploitation. The Church of England initiative is being funded by the Clewer Sisters, an Anglican order founded in the 19th century to help vulnerable women drawn into the sex industry. Sarah Newton, MP for Truro and Falmouth, and minister for crime, safeguarding and vulnerability, said: Victims of modern slavery live in communities across the UK but the despicable crimes against them are too often hidden. This is why it takes the local knowledge, awareness and commitment of communities to identify victims and pursue offenders. Victim-focused projects like the Clewer Initiative play a vital role. To join the Standard's call to action on slavery, visit our dedicated anti-slavery online platform. T he Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner today hailed the Evening Standards special investigation into modern slavery for boosting efforts to combat the problem in the capital. [The investigation] has been key, said, Kevin Hyland. It has only been going a month but it is really starting to generate responses. Were already seeing more reports, and more law enforcement activity. It has been a real step forward. Mr Hylands comments came as he launched the IASC annual report, published this morning, detailing his departments efforts and outlining its next areas of focus. His role was created in 2015, as part of the Modern Slavery Act. If we look at where we are now, two years on from the Act, did we think wed be this far forward? No, said Mr Hyland. But at a time when there are so many challenges in the world, modern-day slavery has remained at the top of the agenda. The development goal is to eradicate modern slavery by 2030. Its a big task, but in the UK we are on track. William Wilberforce changed things in 20 years, at a time when slavery was legal. On the victim support side, Mr Hyland has been a vocal critic of the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), by which potential victims of modern slavery in the UK are assessed for support. We made recommendations to the Government, and Im confident were going to see very significant changes to that support, he said. But we need every government agency working together, from local authorities to the HMRC and Health & Safety as well as law enforcement, otherwise modern-day slavery will remain a niche subject. Law enforcement is another priority. Of the estimated 13,000 victims of modern slavery in the UK, only a small number enter NRM, and an even smaller number of criminal cases are brought. Weve seen a 160 per cent increase in crimes recorded, which is a significant jump, Mr Hyland said. How to spot the signs of slavery The National Crime Agency have completely changed their view, and they now treat modern slavery cases as a priority. Were seeing cases prosecuted without victims present, which is a step forward. Weve educated 1,500 judges about modern slavery so they know to see it as the serious crime that it is, one of the most serious on our statute books. And now we are seeing sentences of 15 years, rather than two or three. Another focus of the report is Britains bilateral arrangements with foreign governments. Albania, Vietnam and Nigeria are the most common origin countries for slaves in the UK. Part of the IASCs effort is in working abroad to prevent potential victims from being trafficked in the first place. Eleven thousand women arrived in Italy from Nigeria last year, he said and 80 per cent of them are destined to be exploited for sex or domestic labour, many of them in the UK. The only way to get real change is to go back to source, by taking away the power of these criminals in the areas where they operate. Public awareness is only helpful if it leads to concrete action, Mr Hyland added. The Evening Standard has drawn attention to the scandal of car washes. But its no good educating the public about nail bars and car washes if, when they are reported, no action is taken. To make modern slavery socially unacceptable and push it off the high street we need three things: public awareness, good laws, and for those laws to be enforced. If any part is missing, the crime may continue. To join the Standard's call to action on slavery, visit our dedicated anti-slavery online platform. E U ministers today slapped down Theresa Mays plea for early talks on a Brexit transition phase and a trade deal. Instead of softening their stance over trade talks, they said a draft statement being prepared for the 27 other EU leaders was being toughened up. We try to go further but we are still on the same three issues, said Belgian deputy prime minister Didier Reynders, adding that it was too early to move the talks on. Danish foreign minister Anders Samuelsen added that the EU was waiting for more precise definition from London. On Friday, EU governments will formally respond to Mrs Mays request at a crucial summit, with France and Germany leading a group of countries taking the toughest line. While EU leaders are likely to agree to begin internal discussions on transition, they will not agree to automatic trade talks with the UK in December unless more progress was made on all three divorce issues. Boris Johnson arrives for Cabinet in Downing Street today / PA Money remains the biggest stumbling block, with the UK under pressure to raise its commitment to pay a share of the EUs future bills. There are also divisions over EU and UK citizens rights and how to avoid a hard border in Northern Ireland. The draft, which foreign and Europe ministers are discussing at a meeting in Luxembourg today, also says that the European Court of Justice should have a role in policing citizens rights. However, Dutch foreign minister Bert Koenders threw an olive branch to UK negotiators, saying that while the EU was united, it was important to prepare for the next stage of talks. I think you really need this substantial progress, and then it is important that we already can prepare right now what could be the next stage, Mr Koenders told reporters in Luxembourg. I think that is important also for the United Kingdom. But we stick together as 27. A leading German politician who is close to Angela Merkel blamed Cabinet splits and Boris Johnson in particular for preventing an agreement. I know there are internal problems, said Michael Fuchs. Whatever she is offering, Boris Johnson is saying its too much. Asked if the Foreign Secretary had too much influence, he said: It seems to be pretty strong, because otherwise she would come up with other proposals, I guess, and the problem is she has internal trouble in the Tories. He warned that a hard Brexit would be tough for your country, very much. Mr Fuchs, who is vice-chairman of Mrs Merkels Christian Democratic Union, said on the BBC Today programme that the UK had not made a decent offer. Last night, Mrs May travelled to Brussels in a diplomatic offensive to try to secure more movement from the EU on transition. After dinner with European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, they said they had had a broad, constructive exchange on a range of issues, including the need to preserve the Iran nuclear deal following President Donald Trumps latest threat to withdraw from it. The Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission reviewed the progress made in the Article 50 negotiations so far and agreed that these efforts should accelerate over the months to come. The working dinner took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere. However, MPs campaigning for a soft Brexit were frustrated at the lack of apparent progress. Liberal Democrat Brexit spokesman Tom Brake said: With just 18 months of Brexit talks left, this statement barely even registers on the Richter scale. Labour former shadow chancellor Chris Leslie, member of the Open Britain group, said: The blandness of their statement begs the question of what Theresa May did talk about in her meeting with Jean-Claude Juncker. P roposed changes to constituency boundaries would have won the Conservative Party a clear majority in the 2017 General Election, new research shows. The independent Boundary Commissions of England, Scotland and Wales published their proposals for constituency reform today. An analysis, commissioned jointly by Professor Colin Rallings and Michael Thrasher, of the University of Plymouth, suggests the Conservatives would have enjoyed a majority of 16 (or effectively 25 if Sinn Fein were assumed not to take up their seats). If approved, plans to cut the total number of MPs from 650 to 600 would take effect in 2022 - the scheduled date of the next British General Election. Revised recommendations for Northern Ireland are yet to come. This seems unlikely, however, given Theresa May's current lack of a parliamentary majority and resistance from Opposition parties across both Houses. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's constituency, Islington North, would be scrapped under the plans, potentially pushing him into contest with parliamentary neighbours and high-ranking Labour politicians such as shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry, of Islington South and Finsbury, and shadow home secretary Diane Abbot, of Hackney North and Stoke Newington. The new plans propose a single Islington seat and a new Finsbury Park and Stoke Newington constituency. Other high-ranking politicians, such as foreign secretary Boris Johnson and international development secretary Priti Patel, may have to battle for new seats if their constituencies are abolished. Plans to lower the number of MPs, and reform constituencies as a result, were first put forward in 2011 in response to the earlier MPs' expenses scandal. As well as reducing the number of seats, the review aims to make constituencies more equal in size, in terms of their total number of voters. Sam Hartley, secretary to the Boundary Commission for England, urged the public to have their say on the revised map before it was submitted to Parliament for approval in September. He said: "The new map of the country we publish today is, we think, close to the best set of Parliamentary constituencies we can achieve, based on the rules to which we work and evidence given to us by citizens." The last set of boundary proposals were rejected by the Commons in 2013 after the Lib-Dems withdrew their support as punishment for a coalition dispute over House of Lords reform. Cat Smith, Labour's shadow deputy leader of the House of Commons, said: "To lose 50 MPs at a time when we are repatriating powers from Brussels, as we leave the European Union, risks leaving the UK government struggling to keep up with the day-to-day requriements of legislation. "They need to drop their unfair, undemocratic plans, as well as ensuring the review is based on the most up-to-date register, and that there is appropriate flexibility to take into account community ties and geography." J eremy Corbyns allies have vowed to kill off the Conservatives boundary review which would reduce the number of MPs from 650 to 600. Labour is set to vote down any plans that would shrink the size of Parliament while MPs are coping with legislation linked to Brexit. Cat Smith, shadow minister for voter engagement and youth affairs, said the Tories should drop their undemocratic plans while shadow fire minister Chris Williamson MP described the proposal as gerrymandering writ large. He said the Conservatives were trying to shift constituency boundaries for their own interest and Labour would work with any political party to push forward a fairer review. It follows the publication today of revised proposals for new seat boundaries. Labour says it is not against constituencies being redrawn, but opposes any plan that cuts the size of the Commons. The DUP is believed to be unhappy with the proposals, which could reduce the Tories ability to get them through Parliament. This could reprieve Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, whose Uxbridge and South Ruislip seat is under threat if large parts are moved into a new constituency of Hillingdon and Uxbridge. Mr Corbyns Islington North seat would be ripped up but he would be likely to move to a new constituency of Islington South and Finsbury. A source said Labours Meg Hillier, who represents Hackney South and Shoreditch, needs a new lifeboat as she is at risk of being squeezed out in the shuffle. England would have 32 fewer seats, Scotland six fewer, Wales 11 fewer and Northern Ireland one fewer. The Boundary Commissions public consultation is under way until December 11. B BC News presenter Simon McCoy has amused viewers by delivering a fantastically lacklustre report on the due date of the royal baby. Mr McCoy, who is known for being underwhelmed by royal baby news, announced the due date for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's third child in a characteristically deadpan manner. Kensington Palace confirmed on Tuesday that William and Kate are expecting their third child in April. Her pregnancy was announced in September. When delivering a report about the due date, Mr McCoy appeared to find it hard to summon any enthusiasm. In 2013, Mr McCoy expressed his lack of enthusiasm as he reported on the lead up to Prince George's birth outside the Lindo Wing at St Mary's hospital in Paddington. Mr McCoy delivered a report on the royal baby due date on the BBC's News live channel on Tuesday afternoon. In scenes that some described as "peak Simon McCoy", he said: Now, bearing in mind that they announced that she was pregnant back in September and it was thought that she was around two or three months pregnant, Im not sure how much news this really is. He added in an impassive manner: But anyway its April so clear your diaries, get the time booked off because thats what Im doing. Viewers took to social media to express their amusement at the newsreader's approach. One said: If there was one person I wanted to deliver this news, it was absolutely Simon McCoy. Another Twitter user said the announcement gave them a "belly laugh". Simon McCoy himself tweeted: Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April", adding the hashtag #News. It comes after the presenter also failed to hide his disdain when reporting on the World Dog Surfing Championships in August. Having reeled off a report alongside images of surfing dogs in a noticeably flat tone, the camera cut back to Mr McCoy in the studio as he sarcastically said: Thats a shame; weve run out of pictures. T he Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their new baby in April, Kensington Palace has confirmed. As with her previous two pregnancies, Kate has been suffering from Hyperemesis Gravidarum - severe morning sickness. But the Duchess appears to be over the worst after dancing at a public engagement this week. William and Kate, both 35, are already the proud parents of four-year-old Prince George and Princess Charlotte, who turned two in May. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Family Album - In pictures 1 /70 The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Family Album - In pictures Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, (2R) and Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, (L) and their three children Prince Louis of Cambridge (2L), Princess Charlotte of Cambridge (C) and Prince George of Cambridge (R) posing for a photograph at Anmer Hall in Norfolk in the Autumn of 2018 Matt Porteous via AFP/Getty Images Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, in Norfolk, HRH The Duchess of Cambridge Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, in Norfolk, HRH The Duchess of Cambridge Their Royal Highnesses Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge kiss on the balcony at Buckingham Palace on April 29, 2011 in London, England Getty Images Prince George's first birthday AFP/Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with their two children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, in a photograph taken late October 2015 at Kensington Palace in London. PA Prince William and Kate Middleton pose for photographs in the State Apartments of St James Palace on November 16, 2010 in London, England. After much speculation, Clarence House today announced the engagement of Prince William to Kate Middleton Getty Images TRH Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge smile following their marriage at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011 in London, England Getty Images Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge drive from Buckingham Palace in a decorated sports car on April 29, 2011 in London, England Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge leaving the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in London, with their newborn son Prince George of Cambridge on July 23rd, 2013 Jeremy Selwyn Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they sit with their son Prince George in the garden of the Middleton family home in Bucklebury, Berkshire surrounded by Tilly the retriever (a Middleton family pet), and Lupo the cocker spaniel, the couple's only dog in their first five years of marriage PA Prince George, at Chapel Royal in St James's Palace, ahead of the christening of the then three month-old Prince by the Archbishop of Canterbury PA Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge reacts as their son Prince George of Cambridge bites a small present that was given to him at the enclosure of an Australian animal called a Bilby, which has been named after the young Prince, during a visit to Sydney's Taronga Zoo on April 20, 2014 in Sydney, Australia Getty Images Prince George sits for his official Christmas picture in a courtyard at Kensington Palace in late November of 2014 in London, England HRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge depart the Lindo Wing with their newborn daughter at St Mary's Hospital on May 2, 2015 in London, England John Stillwell/PA Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge depart the Lindo Wing with their newborn daughter at St Mary's Hospital on May 2, 2015 in London, England Getty Images Prince George looking at his sister Princess Charlotte as she was pushed to church by the Duchess of Cambridge in a vintage 1950s Millson pram once used by the Queen Elizabeth II for her children, during Princess Charlotte's christening at St Mary Magdalene in Sandringham, Norfolk PA Prince George and Princess Charlotte. The photograph was taken by the Duchess in mid-May at Anmer Hall in Norfolk HRH The Duchess of Cambridge Princess Charlotte of Cambridge is pushed in her silver cross pram as she leaves the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham Estate after her Christening on July 5, 2015 in King's Lynn, England Getty Images Prince George gives his little sister Princess Charlotte a kiss HRH The Duchess of Cambridge Catherine Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George attend the Gigaset Charity Polo Match with Prince George of Cambridge at Beaufort Polo Club on June 14, 2015 in Tetbury, England Getty Images Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte of Cambridge arrive at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham Estate for the Christening of Princess Charlotte of Cambridge on July 5, 2015 in King's Lynn, England Getty Images Prince George on his first day at the Westacre Montessori nursery school near Sandringham HRH The Duchess of Cambridge Prince George of Cambridge looks at his sister Princess Charlotte of Cambridge in her pram as he leaves the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham Estate for the Christening of Princess Charlotte of Cambridge Getty Images Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, with their children, Princess Charlotte and Prince George, enjoy a short private skiing break on March 3, 2016 in the French Alps, France Getty Images Princess Charlotte of Cambridge plays with a teddy as she is seen at Anmer Hall HRH The Duchess of Cambridge Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge holds her daughter Princess Charlotte and strokes her son, Prince George's head as they stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch a fly-past of aircrafts by the Royal Air Force, in London on June 11, 2016. AFP/Getty Images The Duke of Edinburgh, The Duchess of Cambridge holding Princess Charlotte, Prince George and The Duke of Cambridge on the balcony of Buckingham Palace in 2017 PA A family picture at Pippa Middleton's wedding. Getty Images The Duchess of Cambridge with their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte at a children's party for Military families at Government House in Victoria during the Royal Tour of Canada PA 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 on October 1, 2016 in Victoria, Canada Getty Images William, The Duke of Cambridge, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte visit Canada Mark Large/Daily Mail Prince William, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George and Princess Charlotte arrive at a children's party at Government House in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Reuters Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, his wife Catherine, The Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George and Princess Charlotte arrive at Tegel airport in Berlin, Germany, July 19, 2017 Reuters The Duchess of Cambridge speaks to Princess Charlotte and Prince George after the wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews at St Mark's Church Getty Images Prince George (centre) stands with other page boys and flower girls following the wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews, as they leave St Mark's church in Englefield, Berkshire PA Prince George who celebrates his fourth birthday Getty Images Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince George of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge depart from Hamburg airport on the last day of their official visit to Poland and Germany on July 21, 2017 in Hamburg, Germany Getty Images Prince William, Duke of Cambridge (L) and Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge aka Kate Middleton show their newly-born son, their third child, Britain's Prince Louis of Cambridge to the media outside the Lindo Wing at St Mary's Hospital AFP/Getty Images Prince William, Duke of Cambridge carries his newly-born son, Britain's Prince Louis of Cambridge from the Lindo Wing at St Mary's Hospital Ben Stansall/AFP/Getty Images Prince William arrives at Lindo wing at St Mary's Hospital with Prince George and Princess Charlotte to meet new baby brother. Jeremy Selwyn Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrives with Prince George and Princess Charlotte at the Lindo Wing where Kate had just given birth to Prince Louis in London Prince George and Princess Charlotte at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle PA Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Britain's Prince George of Cambridge hold hands with their father, Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, as Britain's Prince Louis of Cambridge is carried by Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge on their arrival for his christening service at the Chapel Royal, St James's Palace, London on July 9, 2018 AFP/Getty Images Princess Charlotte playing as her father, the Duke of Cambridge, takes part in the Maserati Royal Charity Polo Trophy at the Beaufort Polo Club, Downfarm House, Westonbirt, Tetbury PA Princess Anne, Princess Royal, Princess Beatrice, Lady Louise Windsor, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, Queen Elizabeth II, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Savannah Phillips, Prince George of Cambridge and Isla Phillips watch the flypast on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during Trooping The Colour on June 9, 2018 in London Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge after attending the St Patrick's Day parade at Cavalry Barracks in Hounslow, where they presented shamrock to officers and guardsmen of 1st Battalion the Irish Guards PA The Duchess of Cambridge (L) smiles as she and Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrrive for the Easter Mattins Service at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle AFP/Getty Images Prince Louis pictured in the garden of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's Norfolk home earlier this month HRH The Duchess of Cambridge An emerged photo of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's 2019 Christmas card The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children, Prince Louis, Princess Charlotte and Prince George attend a special pantomime performance at Londons Palladium Theatre, hosted by The National Lottery, to thank key workers and their families for their efforts throughout the pandemic PA The Duchess of Cambridge with Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte attend a special pantomime performance at Londons Palladium Theatre, hosted by The National Lottery, to thank key workers and their families for their efforts throughout the pandemic PA Prince Louis, photographed by his mother, the Duchess of Cambridge, at Kensington Palace PA Media Her pregnancy was announced early in September because she had to skip some official engagements. As expected, William and Kate are not revealing the sex of their baby. They left the gender of their first two children a surprise. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge pictured here for the first time since announcing her pregnancy / PA Nevertheless, the couple's third child will be styled as the Prince or Princess of Cambridge, much like George and Charlotte. The Queen is said to be delighted by the news of the impending arrival of her latest great-grandchild, who will be fifth in line to the throne. Her own birthday is also in April. Kate is expected to return to the private delivery suite at the Lindo wing of St Mary's Hospital, Paddington, where George and Charlotte were both born. Todays announcement comes just weeks after Prince George started school at Thomass Battersea, where fees cost 17,604 a year. F ormer England football captain Terry Butcher was in mourning today following the death of his Army veteran son. Christopher Butcher, 35, who had fought in Afghanistan, died yesterday after having struggled with the effects of the war against the Taliban. His brother Edward announced his death, paying tribute to his hero and best friend. He said: My older brother was the best brother I can ever of asked for and his death has hit the entire family hard. The family are together and we will release the dates of the funeral in due time. We know how greatly he was loved and were sorry that we cant call every person who knew him to tell them. Tragic: The Army veteran son of former former England football captain Terry Butcher, 35-year-old Christopher He added: Chris you were my hero, you were my best friend and you were someone I would throw myself in the way of a truck for! This is for you and thank you for everything you ever taught me and I will miss you for the rest of my life but you will never be forgotten! Captain Butcher, who served with the Royal Artillery, had apparently struggled to cope with the stresses of serving in Afghanistan. He had been based in Germany after fighting overseas, and subsequently left the Armed Forces, describing himself online as just a moody bitter vet. Friends and colleagues today paid tribute to him, telling of their devastation at the news of his death. Mourning: Terry Butcher, pictured in 1995, is mourning the loss of his son / Getty Images Soldier Kevin Day said: Im absolutely devastated about the news one of my Army officers has lost his life. You werent just an officer to us, you were always a good friend and someone all of us could turn to. Nick Collins added: The term Legend is used too often, but Christopher Butcher that is definitely the case. RIP big man, another friend gone too soon. Harry Wright, and ex-gunner, said: Sadly, few people realise what Chris went through, and no matter how strong you are, it does affect you. Butcher, 58, who was capped 77 times by England - and is most famous for his heavily-bloodied head and shirt during a game against Sweden in 1989 - was said to be distraught over the death. He had previously spoken of his pride at his sons military service, but in one interview three years ago became overcome with emotion as he said: Unfortunately Chris is not in a good way right now. When he told me about going into that compound in Afghanistan, feeling the bullets pinging off his helmet, well... T he head of MI5 has said Britain is now facing the worst terror threat he has ever seen in his 34-year career. Andrew Parker, director general of the security service, gave a rare public speech, calling the threat multi-dimensional, evolving rapidly and operating at a scale and pace weve not seen before. Another 20 terrorist attacks on the UK were foiled over the past four years and many more were prevented, he said. The intelligence chief said there has been a dramatic upshift this year, which resulted in the London and Manchester attacks which killed a total of 36 people. Director General of MI5 Andrew Parker said it is "impossible" to stop every attack. / Getty Images Mr Parker added it's impossible for MI5 to stop every attack, but that the service is identifying and disrupting threats all the time. "In 2017, with all that has happened and much that has not, it is clear that we are contending with an intense UK terrorist threat from Islamist extremists," Mr Parker told journalists in London. "Twenty attacks in the UK have been foiled over the past four years," he said. "Many more will have been prevented by the early interventions we and the police make. There have been a record number of terrorism-related arrests: 379 in the year to June." Aftermath of London Bridge and Borough Market terrorist attack 1 /73 Aftermath of London Bridge and Borough Market terrorist attack New Security barriers along Westminster Bridge Alex Lentati Onlookers react near the scene of an attack close to London Bridge Reuters Floral tributes are laid near Borough Market in London following Saturday's terrorist attack PA Security barriers along Waterloo Bridge Alex Lentati Police on patrol London Bridge and Southwark Street Jeremy Selwyn The scene where the terrorists van stopped at the southern end of London Bridge and Southwark Street Jeremy Selwyn A woman places flowers on a floral tribute in the London Bridge area AP Police activity on Ripple Road in east London, where officers have conducted raids after Saturday's deadly terror attack PA New security barriers have been put up along Westminster Bridge Alex Lentati People look at flowers at a pedestrian crossing on the south side of London Bridge AFP/Getty Images Police at London Bridge and Southwark Street Jeremy Selwyn Police on patrol London Bridge and Southwark Street Jeremy Selwyn Flowers at London Bridge and Southwark Street Jeremy Selwyn Flowers at London Bridge and Southwark Street Jeremy Selwyn Police on patrol London Bridge Jeremy Selwyn Police on patrol London Bridge and Southwark Street Jeremy Selwyn Police activity on Ripple Road in east London PA New security barriers have been put up along Westminster Bridge Evening Standard Jeremy Selwyn View of London Bridge following the terror attack Jeremy Selwyn Armed police Jeremy Selwyn A person (right) is detained by police at Elizabeth Fry flats in Barking, east London, which officer raided following the terror attack on London Bridge Furqan Nabi/PA A female police officer carries flowers from a member of the public to the scene of last night's terrorist attack at London Bridge Getty Images The van used by three attackers which was driven onto London Bridge, striking pedestrian, before they went on a stabbing rampage in nearby Borough Market PA A person is detained by police in Barking, east London following the terror attack on London Bridge Splash News Forensic officers work on London Bridge after last night's a terrorist attack Getty Images Police officers outside a property in East Ham which has been raided by police Getty Images Police activity on Barking Road in East Ham, east London @JrKamrulJr/PA A crowd gathers behind a police cordon on Barking Road in East Ham, east London, where there was a heavy police presence following last night's terrorist incident at London Bridge PA Armed police descend an escalator at the foot of the Shard outside London Bridge station PA Police officers and emergency response vehicles are seen on the street outside Borough Market on the morning after a terror attack on London Bridge and the Borough area AFP/Getty Images A forensic officer walks over London Bridge after last night's terrorist attack Getty Images View of London Bridge following the terror attack Jeremy Selwyn A police officer escorts members of the public, wrapped in foil blankets, towards The Shard in London AFP/Getty Images A bouquet of flowers stands by the police cordon next to London Bridge in London AFP/Getty Images A police officer creates a cordon on Kings Road in Barking, as police continue their investigations following the June 3 terror attacks AFP/Getty Images Police raid flats in Barking Armed officers: Police raid flats in Barking 'over London Bridge terror attack' @ofrenium/Twitter Members of the public watch as police work on Kings Road in Barking AFP/Getty Images Police raid flats in Barking The Union flag is flown at half mast in Downing Street, London PA Prime Minister Theresa May makes a statement in Downing Street after chairing a meeting of the Government's emergency Cobra committee following last night's terrorist incident in London PA A sign at Walthamstow tube station in east London following last night's terrorist incident at London Bridge PA Police outside a raided property in East Ham Getty Images Police officers stand outside a property which was raided by officers in Barking Road, east London Reuters Armed police Jeremy Selwyn Armed police Jeremy Selwyn Police officers patrol the River Thames by boat, close to London Bridge AFP/Getty Images Counter terrorism officers march near the scene of last night's London Bridge terrorist attack Getty Images Armed police Jeremy Selwyn Armed police and emergency services outside Borough Market, London, following last night's terrorist incidents PA Police forensic officers work on London Bridge in London, as police continue their investigations following the terror attack AFP/Getty Images Police on Southwark Bridge Road, London, near the scene of last night's terrorist incidents in London Bridge and Borough Market PA Police forensic officers on London Bridge following last night's terrorist incident PA The Union flag flies at half mast in Whitehall PA He said continental Europe has faced a similar surge, particularly in France, Belgium, Germany and Spain. "The scale at which we are operating is greater than ever before," he said. Director General of MI5 Andrew Parker delivered a speech in central London today. / PA Mr Parker said MI5 has more than 500 live investigations involving roughly 3,000 people known to be involved in extremist activities. In addition, he said, more than 20,000 individuals have been scrutinized in the past for possible terror ties and there are undoubtedly "violent extremists" who have thus far not been detected by the Security Service. Attack at Parliament, March 22, 2017 1 /48 Attack at Parliament, March 22, 2017 A policeman points a gun at a man on the floor as emergency services attend the scene outside the Palace of Westminster, London Stefan Rousseau/PA Emergency services at the scene outside the Palace of Westminste PA The scene of the incident @Lukesteele4 The scene at Westminster bridge this morning, the day after a terrorist attack Jeremy Selwyn The scene at Westminster bridge this morning, the day after a terrorist attack Jeremy Selwyn The scene at Westminster bridge this morning, the day after a terrorist attack Jeremy Selwyn The flag above the Houses of Parliament in London flies at half mast the day after a terrorist attack Jeremy Selwyn A forensics tent on Westminster Bridge seen from Victoria Embankment in London the day after a terrorist attack Jonathan Brady/PA Police officers walk accross Westminster Bridge the morning after an attack by a man driving a car and weilding a knife Darren Staples/Reuters Emergency services at the scene outside the Palace of Westminster Stefan Rousseau/PA A knife on the cobbles at the scene outside the Palace of Westminster, London Stefan Rousseau/PA Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood (centre) helps emergency services attend to a police officer outside the Palace of Westminster, London Stefan Rousseau/PA A man lies injured after a shooting incident on Westminster Bridge in London Toby Melville/Reuters Injured people are assisted after an incident on Westminster Bridge Toby Melville/Reuters Police secure the area on the south side of Westminster Bridge close to the Houses of Parliament in London Matt Dunham/AP An armed police officer runs accross the road during an incident on Westminster Bridge in London Toby Melville/Reuters A member of the public is treated by emergency services near Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament Carl Court/Getty Images A member of the public is treated by emergency services near Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament Carl Court/Getty Images The scene outside the Houses of Parliament The area around Westminster was put on immediate lockdown BBC Police outside the Palace of Westminster, London Victoria Jones/PA Westminster Bridge Theresa May during Prime Minister's Questions before the incident PA A police officer stops traffic as the Jagaur car of British Prime Minister Theresa May is driven away Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP/Getty Images A image of armed police inside Parliament @BarryGardiner Emergency services close to the Palace of Westminster, London Yui Mok/PA Police close to the Palace of Westminster, London Victoria Jones/PA Wire Police close to the Palace of Westminster, London Yui Mok/PA An Air Ambulance outside the Palace of Westminster Victoria Jones/PA Emergency personnel close to the Palace of Westminster Yui Mok/PA Police forensic officers on Westminster Bridge, close to the Palace of Westminster Dominic Lipinski/PA People remain in pods on the London Eye after it was stopped Jonathan Brady/PA Mark Rowley, Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations in the Metropolitan Police, speaking outside Scotland Yard in London Victoria Jones/PA Westminster Bridge BBC Emergency services make their way down the river Jack Taylor/Getty Images Members of the public wait at locked doors outside St Thomas' hospital Carl Court/Getty Images The risk is further heightened by the possible return to Britain of citizens who joined the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq, Mr Parker said. He said MI5 is well-equipped to cope with the deepening threat, with its ranks set to grow from 4,000 to 5,000 over the next few years. But he added: Attacks will occur sometimes because this is a free society, a liberal democracy, and we do not monitor everybody all the time. "Nor would we want to live in a country that was like that." The director called on technology companies to work with the government on preventing their social media platforms from being used by extremists for communications that cannot be monitored. When asked if Facebook and Google were doing enough on this front, Mr Parker declined to discuss specific companies. He praised advancements in communications technology, but said an "unintended side effect" has been to make it easier for extremists to avoid legal monitoring by using apps, including many that provide encryption, to avoid detection. He said companies should to more to prevent this abuse of their communications systems. "For the companies there must be an ethical responsibility," Mr Parker said. "The way to move forward is in partnerships together. Additional reporting by Press Association. S torm Ophelia is expected to wreak havoc in the UK today after killing three people and leaving hundreds of thousands without power in Ireland. Weather warnings for wind are in place in the north of England, northwest Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. The country is braced for gusts of up to 70mph and flood warnings are in place on Scotlands west coast after the former hurricane made landfall overnight. Ireland experienced the worst of the weather on Monday, with winds of almost 100mph damaging electricity networks and causing widespread disruption. A woman walks past waves crashing on the sea wall at Penzance, Cornwall / Ben Birchall/PA A father-of-two was killed in Ravensdale, Dundalk, when a car he was in was struck by a tree at around 2.45pm, Irish police said. Fintan Goss, 33, was pronounced dead at the scene. In Cahir, Co Tipperary, 31-year-old Michael Pyke was killed in a chainsaw accident when he was trying to clear a tree downed by the wind. Fintan Goss was killed when a tree fell onto his car in Ireland / Facebook Earlier, a cancer nurse in her 50s died when a tree fell on her car in strong winds near Aglish village in Co Waterford. Former oncology nurse Clare O'Neill was due to celebrate her 59th birthday on Tuesday, reported the Irish Independent. Prime Minister Theresa May spoke to Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar on Monday afternoon to offer support to affected areas. A Downing Street spokesman said: "On Storm Ophelia, the Prime Minister expressed her sympathies for the loss of life and said the UK Government stood ready to provide any support if requested." Around 330,000 homes and business were still without power on Monday night following the worst storm on record on the island of Ireland. Hurricane Ophelia - In pictures 1 /45 Hurricane Ophelia - In pictures Waves crash over the lighthouse as storm Ophelia approaches Porthcawl, Wales Rebecca Naden/Reuters The scene in Crosshill, in the south side of Glasgow, after the front of a block of flats, which are due for demolition, was brought down in high winds as Storm Ophelia sweeps across Scotland PA The scene in Crosshill, in the south side of Glasgow, after the front of a block of flats, which are due for demolition, was brought down in high winds as Storm Ophelia sweeps across Scotland PA A car drives through sea foam whipped up by the wind of Hurricane Ophelia at Trearddur Bay Getty Images A 'road closed' sign is seen submerged in floodwater during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters People run from a wave whipped up by Hurricane Ophelia as it crashes over the seafront in Penzance in Cornwall Getty Images Waves break on the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA A plane flies past the Shard in central London, as the sky takes on an unusual orange colour caused by Storm Ophelia Dominic Lipinski/PA Dare devils run out to a diving board Salthill, Galway, Ireland, as Hurricane Ophelia batters the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA Winds batter the harbour as storm Ophelia hits Cork, Ireland Kieron O'Connor/Reuters A tree surgeon cuts up a fallen tree in Penzance in Cornwall, England Matt Cardy/Getty Images 10-year-old cocker spaniel Lily (left) and two-year-old Italian Spinone Lottie on their walks in strong winds at Lands End, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA A woman take a photograph as waves crash up onto Penzance seafront in Cornwall Matt Cardy/Getty Images A woman photographs the sun rise at Penarth Pier as Hurricane Ophelia approaches the west coast of the United Kingdom Matthew Horwood/Getty Images People take selfies in waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare on the West Coast of Ireland as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Niall Carson/PA Empty streets in Kilkee, Ireland as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Niall Carson/PA An uprooted tree lies in a road as storm Ophelia hits Cork, Ireland Reuters A man walks the coastal path beside the stormy sea at Whitehead on the Irish Sea coast, north east of Belfast in Northern Ireland, Paul Faith/AFP/Getty Images People take sandbags to protect homes from a storage shed on the Dublin Bay coast on the outskirts of Dublin Ben Stansall/AFP/Getty Images Waves break on Longships lighthouse off the coast of Lands End, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA An overhead road sign on Belfast's M2 motorway warning drivers of, "Strong Winds Forecast Today", as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Liam McBurney/PA A woman walks past waves crashing on the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA Winds batter the coast as storm Ophelia hits the County Clare town of Lahinch, Irelan Clodagh Kilcoyne/Reuters People walk across a beach as storm Ophelia approaches near Trearddur Bay in Anglesey, Wales Phil Noble/Reuters A woman walks past waves crashing on the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA Dare devils run out to a diving board Salthill, Galway, Ireland, as Hurricane Ophelia batters the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA Sea foam whipped up by the wind of Hurricane Ophelia covers the promenade at Trearddur Bay Getty Images Huge waves strike the harbour wall and lighthouse at Porthcawl, south Wales AFP/Getty Images Saltcoats on the west coast of Scotland as Storm Ophelia hits Britain's west coas PA Dare devils run out to a diving board Salthill, Galway, Ireland, as Hurricane Ophelia batters the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA The Galway Atlantaquaria National Aquarium of Ireland building is seen submerged in floodwater during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters A worker clears fallen trees off a road during Storm Ophelia in the County Clare area of the Burren, Ireland Reuters People walk on a seaweed-covered path during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters A car drives through a flooded road that is covered in seaweed during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters Help from Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK is expected to be drafted in on Wednesday to help restore power, ESB, the Republic of Ireland's electricity network, said. Authorities in the Republic and Northern Ireland have said schools will remain closed on Tuesday to ensure the safety of staff and children. A tree surgeon cuts up a fallen tree in Penzance / Matt Cardy/Getty Images The storm will track north and could cause rush hour disruption in Scotland and northern parts of England, the Met Office said. Forecaster Steven Keates said commuters in the affected areas should expect "very gusty conditions", with winds of up to 70mph. Three dead as storm Ophelia blasts Ireland and the UK He said: "The strong winds will continue but should moderate a little bit compared to what we have seen. "There's still a risk of gales and it's still strong enough to cause disruption, but a little bit down on what we have seen." The sun turned red over London on Monday as ex-hurricane Ophelia pulled up air and dust from southern Europe and Africa. The phenomenon is set to return on Wednesday due to southerly winds. Temperatures are also expected to be cooler on Tuesday, after a warm 23.5C (74F) was recorded in Kent on Monday. A young father-of-two has been named as one of the three people killed as Storm Orphelia tore through Ireland on Monday. Fintan Goss, 33, died after a tree fell onto his car while he drove home from work in Ravensdale, Co Louth at 2.45pm. He had married his wife Pamela last year who had recently given birth to a second child, the Irish Mirror reported. Mr Goss was reportedly alone in the car when the tree hit, and was pronounced dead at the scene. Hurricane Ophelia - In pictures 1 /45 Hurricane Ophelia - In pictures Waves crash over the lighthouse as storm Ophelia approaches Porthcawl, Wales Rebecca Naden/Reuters The scene in Crosshill, in the south side of Glasgow, after the front of a block of flats, which are due for demolition, was brought down in high winds as Storm Ophelia sweeps across Scotland PA The scene in Crosshill, in the south side of Glasgow, after the front of a block of flats, which are due for demolition, was brought down in high winds as Storm Ophelia sweeps across Scotland PA A car drives through sea foam whipped up by the wind of Hurricane Ophelia at Trearddur Bay Getty Images A 'road closed' sign is seen submerged in floodwater during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters People run from a wave whipped up by Hurricane Ophelia as it crashes over the seafront in Penzance in Cornwall Getty Images Waves break on the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA A plane flies past the Shard in central London, as the sky takes on an unusual orange colour caused by Storm Ophelia Dominic Lipinski/PA Dare devils run out to a diving board Salthill, Galway, Ireland, as Hurricane Ophelia batters the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA Winds batter the harbour as storm Ophelia hits Cork, Ireland Kieron O'Connor/Reuters A tree surgeon cuts up a fallen tree in Penzance in Cornwall, England Matt Cardy/Getty Images 10-year-old cocker spaniel Lily (left) and two-year-old Italian Spinone Lottie on their walks in strong winds at Lands End, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA A woman take a photograph as waves crash up onto Penzance seafront in Cornwall Matt Cardy/Getty Images A woman photographs the sun rise at Penarth Pier as Hurricane Ophelia approaches the west coast of the United Kingdom Matthew Horwood/Getty Images People take selfies in waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare on the West Coast of Ireland as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Niall Carson/PA Empty streets in Kilkee, Ireland as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Niall Carson/PA An uprooted tree lies in a road as storm Ophelia hits Cork, Ireland Reuters A man walks the coastal path beside the stormy sea at Whitehead on the Irish Sea coast, north east of Belfast in Northern Ireland, Paul Faith/AFP/Getty Images People take sandbags to protect homes from a storage shed on the Dublin Bay coast on the outskirts of Dublin Ben Stansall/AFP/Getty Images Waves break on Longships lighthouse off the coast of Lands End, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA An overhead road sign on Belfast's M2 motorway warning drivers of, "Strong Winds Forecast Today", as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Liam McBurney/PA A woman walks past waves crashing on the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA Winds batter the coast as storm Ophelia hits the County Clare town of Lahinch, Irelan Clodagh Kilcoyne/Reuters People walk across a beach as storm Ophelia approaches near Trearddur Bay in Anglesey, Wales Phil Noble/Reuters A woman walks past waves crashing on the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall, as Hurricane Ophelia hits the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph Ben Birchall/PA Dare devils run out to a diving board Salthill, Galway, Ireland, as Hurricane Ophelia batters the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA Sea foam whipped up by the wind of Hurricane Ophelia covers the promenade at Trearddur Bay Getty Images Huge waves strike the harbour wall and lighthouse at Porthcawl, south Wales AFP/Getty Images Saltcoats on the west coast of Scotland as Storm Ophelia hits Britain's west coas PA Dare devils run out to a diving board Salthill, Galway, Ireland, as Hurricane Ophelia batters the UK and Ireland with gusts of up to 80mph PA The Galway Atlantaquaria National Aquarium of Ireland building is seen submerged in floodwater during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters A worker clears fallen trees off a road during Storm Ophelia in the County Clare area of the Burren, Ireland Reuters People walk on a seaweed-covered path during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters A car drives through a flooded road that is covered in seaweed during Storm Ophelia in Galway, Ireland Reuters Jim DArcy, a family friend and advisor to Irish premier Leo Varadkar, told the Irish Mirror: Its terrible for such a lovely family, you couldnt get better. Words cant express how everybody in the area feels about this. I taught the four kids so I know all about them. Its a very cruel world. Cancer nurse Clare ONeill, aged in her 50s, was the first to die in the storm after a tree also hit her car while she was driving in Co Waterford at 11.40am. Gardai, the Irish police force, said a female passenger in her 70s was also injured and taken to hospital. Mrs ONeill, who worked at a nursing home, was pronounced dead at the scene. Ophelia brought fierce winds to Ireland on Monday / Ben Birchall/PA Local grocer Richard Hurley told the Daily Mail: She was a very jolly woman and always seemed to be happy and cheerful. She was very friendly and if I ever did anything for her, she was always very appreciative. Michael Pyke, 31, died while clearing a fallen tree with a chainsaw in Ardfinnan, Co Tipperary. He was reportedly hit by a branch and died at the scene at around 12.30pm. Three dead as storm Ophelia blasts Ireland and the UK Family friend Liz Davies told the Irish Sun: He was just such a lovely young man that was taken far too soon. I remember when he was younger, he was a cheeky wee man, but so funny. He grew to be such a lovely young man and now he is reunited with his mum. I am praying for his dad, his sisters and brothers and his whole family, that they can find the strength to get through this awful time. My thoughts are with them all, they are such a beautiful family. Off the coast of Rosslare, volunteer lifeboat crew rescued three men on a yacht after they got into trouble in the storm. The men had been trying to get to safety in a harbour but were constantly pushed back by wind and tides. They issued a mayday 10 miles offshore and were rescued by Rosslare Harbour lifeboat. The storm force force winds were expected to have cleared Ireland's coast by midnight, but people have been warned to remain cautious in the aftermath of the extreme weather. Fallen trees blocking roads and downed power lines are some of the likely hazards on Tuesday as the country returns to normal following a day when the island of Ireland went into lockdown. The storm has caused major disruption to power supplies, with 330,000 homes and businesses still without power on Monday night. C anvey Island is plotting a Catalan-style revolt to break away from the Essex mainland. The 40,000 strong Thames Estuary community is seeking independence from Castle Point borough council, claiming they are treated like second class citizens when it comes to spending decisions: Revolution is in the air even though Canvey is a far cry from Catalonia One is a Mediterranean region synonymous with Gaudi, Salvador Dali and Lionel Messi. Revolution is in the air in Canvey Island / East News Press Agency The other is a small area of reclaimed land in the Thames estuary, home to the Fantasy Island amusement park and the birthplace of 1970s pub rock band Dr Feelgood. Catalonian capital v estuary isle Population Catalonia - 7.5 million Canvey - 40,000 Average July temperature Catalonia - 23C Canvey - 16.8C Most famous landmark Catalonia - Sagrada Familia church Canvey - The Lobster Smack pub Football team FC Barcelona - 5 x Champions League, 24 x La Liga Canvey Island Town FC - Ryman Premier League Champions 2003/04, 4 x Essex Senior Cup Famous sons and daughters Catalonia - Joan Miro, Salvador Dali, Jose Carreras, Pep Guardiola. Canvey Island - Olympic decathlete Dean Macey, co-creator of Poddington Peas Colin Wyatt Songs Catalonia - Barcelona by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballe Canvey - Milk and Alcohol by Dr Feelgood A straw poll on conducted on Furtherwick Street Canveys answer to Barcelonas Las Ramblas yesterday found strong support for independence. Retired couple Michael, 67, and Kim Dent, 55, said they would vote for freedom. Mr Dent said: People here are different from the mainland. They look down on us, but were close-knit and look out for each other. If we had our own council we could spend more money on the things we need as I feel we come second at the moment. Fourteen of the islands 17 councillors now belong to the Canvey Island Independent Party (CIIP). 'People here are different from the mainland' / Andrea Baldo/LightRocket via Getty Images David Blackwell, CIIP founder, said he intends to organise an unofficial independence referendum to put pressure on central government if petitioning the Local Government Association fails to have the desired effect. Mr Blackwell said: If we held a referendum tomorrow wed get 98 per cent voting in favour of independence. We have taken inspiration from Catalonia, but weve been fighting this battle since the 1970s when they lumped us together with the mainland in a completely artificial borough council. They always look after themselves first when it comes to spending decisions and were fed up with it. Its time for change. On the high street, which is home to a string of charity shops, bookies and pawnbrokers, similar concerns about pressures on housing and NHS services were raised to those expressed during the Brexit debate. However, most of the new incomers to the island are East Enders moving out rather than immigrants. Nigel Bury, 66, a retired hotel manager, said: Were independently minded on the island. We voted for Brexit because people got fed-up with the EU telling us what to do and I reckon wed do the same with the borough council. While there is no breakdown for Canvey Island itself, Castle Point, which includes Benfleet, Hadleigh and Thundersley, was one of the highest leave voting wards in the EU referendum with 72.7 per cent. Tyler Offord, 16, a student, said: Theres definitely a difference from the rest of Essex. People are friendlier here. I would probably vote for independence. Christine Levitt, 62, retired day centre worker, said: I retired here two years ago from east London because Canvey is a nicer place to live. I think we should have independence. Alison Sinclair, 61, said: I was brought up on Canvey, but I live in Benfleet now and I can see it from both sides. Independence sounds like a good idea, but Im not sure wed be able to cope on our own. T hree people have died after Storm Ophelia barreled across the British Isles and wreaked havoc in northern parts of the UK. Road and rail services in Scotland were thrown into turmoil as the deadly former hurricane continued its destructive path after hitting Ireland on Monday. One woman was killed in the south of the country when a tree fell on her car in the storm. Later, a man in Ravensdale, Dundalk, died later in similar circumstances, while another man in his 30s was killed in a chainsaw accident in Cahir, Co Tipperary, as he tried to remove a tree torn down by the storm. Large parts of southern Britain escaped the howling winds and heavy rain endured elsewhere but saw strange phenomena linked to the storm - such as darkened oranges skies above the capital. The live blog has now ended, but you can read back over our coverage as it happened. P roduction of a "provocative" Channel 4 drama about North Korean has been halted amid reports hackers targeted the British producers making the show. The series, titled Opposite Number, was set to be written by Matt Charman, the Oscar-nominated screenwriter behind Tom Hanks thriller Bridge of Spies, and broadcast on Channel 4. The premise of the show concerned a British nuclear scientist being taken prisoner in North Korea. Upon commissioning the series, Channel 4 trailed Opposite Number as "bold and provocative". North Korean officials reacted badly to the news, describing the plot as a "slanderous farce" and calling on the British government to force the show out of production as a sign of good faith. It has now emerged, however, that the production company involved, Mammoth Screen, subsequently had its computers hacked in August 2014, only a few months before North Korean hackers would infiltrate Sony Pictures in response to its film The Interview, a comedy about a plot to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un. Initially reported by the New York Times as an all-out attack on Channel 4, the BBC has now reported that only Mammoth Screen was hit by the hackers. Although the series was supposedly shelved due to its failure to secure funding, insiders have refused to comment on whether the cancellation was in any way linked to the incident. British intelligence services were aware of the attack. T he largest school board in Canada has banned the word chief from job titles to avoid offending indigenous people. The Toronto District School Board which oversees all secular, English-speaking schools in the city is removing the word because it can be used as a slur. The move is at the recommendation of the Boards Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aims to further reconciliation with indigenous people, the Canadian Press reported. Titles like chief financial officer, chief academic officer and chief communications officer will be renamed, even though the use of the word chief in those titles does not refer to indigenous people. The announcement has raised eyebrows on social media. On Twitter, people pointed out that the word "chief" is thought to originate from Old French and Middle English language. But Ryan Bird, a school board spokesman, told the Canadian Press: "It may not have originated as an indigenous word, but the fact is that it is used as a slur in some cases, or in a negative way to describe indigenous people. "With that in mind, as it has become a slur in some cases, that's the decision the administration has made to be proactive on that," he added. Chief will be replaced with words like manager and executive officer. E mployers are under no obligation to pay staff who miss work because of extreme weather, an employment law and human resources specialist has said. Workers across the Republic of Ireland are staying at home today because of Storm Ophelia. But bosses do not need to pay them for their absences, a HR Team representative told the i newspaper. Official advice said Irish residents should only make essential journeys on Tuesday until roads could be cleared of debris. However, employees may not necessarily get paid despite being physically unable to get to work. Unless it is stated in a staff members contract of employment, employers are not obliged to pay someone who fails to show up to work, even in extreme weather. If the place of work is closed, there is still no legal requirement to pay staff. Roads were blocked by fallen trees / Reuters Martina McAuley, from HR Team, told the i: In employment legislation there is no obligation on employers to pay employees who dont show up for work because of extreme weather conditions. However, many employers do have provision in their contracts of employment for payment to be made in light of situations such as Hurricane Ophelia and the flooding which hit the North West back in August. Waves crash over a lighthouse as storm Ophelia passes Porthcawl, Wales / REUTERS Ms McAuley added: Employers should be mindful that if they are cancelling an employees shift they should give the employee a reasonable amount of notice. Like many aspects of employment law there are variables and employers should seek expert advice. She said employers should consider the impact any decisions might have on staff morale in the long term. Three people died when hurricane-force winds as high as 119mph battered Ireland on Monday. Scotland, where the storm is next expected to hit, is braced for extreme weather. Thousands of homes and businesses are still without power and schools remain closed as the clean-up begins. Find live updates on the storm here. H arvey Weinstein has resigned from the board of his own company more than a week after the firm sacked him over sexual harassment and assault allegations. The board of The Weinstein Company confirmed on Tuesday that the disgraced film producer had resigned. Weinstein still reportedly holds roughly a 20 per cent stake in the business but the future of that asset is not yet known. The 65-year-old was fired as chief executive from the company although remained on the board - after the New York Times published the first three claims of rape against him on October 5. Dozens of actresses, including Hollywood A-listers Angelina Jolie and Gwyneth Paltrow, have since made accusations of sexual harassment abuse against the 65-year-old producer. Harvey Weinstein's civil lawyer, Patty Glaser, is surrounded by media after leaving The Weinstein Company Board of Directors meeting in midtown New York. / AFP/Getty Images Through his spokeswoman, Weinstein "unequivocally denied" any claims of rape and sexual assault, as police in the US investigate allegations. A host of stars have since slammed Weinstein over his alleged behaviour, with Dame Judi Dench calling the claims "horrifying" and Meryl Streep calling the women who spoke out "heroes". Harvey Weinstein on the Oscars red carpet at this year's awards. / Getty Images On Sunday, the Met Police said they are investigating a total of five allegations in the UK by three different women against the shamed movie mogul. The allegations date back to the late 1980s with the latest assaults alleged to have taken place in 2010, 2011 and 2015. Harvey Weinstein in 60 seconds Hollyoaks actress Lysette Anthony, believed to have made one of the allegations to Scotland Yard, claimed she was raped by Weinstein at her London home in Chelsea. Lysette Anthony has claimed Harvey Weinstein raped her in her London home / Getty Images The Weinstein Company has made and distributed blockbuster films including The Kings Speech and Silver Linings Playbook. The board behind the Oscars revoked Weinstein's elite membership on Saturday and the Producers Guild of America has also started the process of expelling him. The Writers Guild of America West also issued a statement on Saturday saying it "stands in solidarity" with the women who have spoken out . N ew Zealand is facing a potential crisp crisis dubbed the chipocalypse as bad winter weather leaves the country with a shortage of potatoes. Persistent wet weather has waterlogged potato fields, making them harder to harvest and pushing up their price. New Zealands North Island, where crisping varieties of potatoes are grown, has suffered some of the worst weather. Industry body Potatoes New Zealand says the price for a kilogram of potatoes has already risen sharply in the past year from AUD $1.63 (97 pence) in August 2016 to $2.12 (1.26) a year later. After warnings of the shortage appeared in some supermarket aisles, crisp fans took to social media to voice their fears. Some contemplated the impending crisp crisis with amusement. Others mourned the lack of reasonable alternatives. In the southern hemisphere, it is now spring following a particularly bad winter. "It started raining in March, and it just simply hasn't stopped," said Chris Claridge, head of Potatoes New Zealand, blaming the third-wettest year on record. Speaking to Radio Live NZ, he said farmers had not had the dry periods their crops needed. "Potatoes are actually alive - they need to breathe. And so effectively they drown, and then they start to rot... because they're submerged in water," he said. The shortage is likely to hit processed potato foods hardest in a few months time. N uclear war "may break out any moment" amid deepening tensions between North Korea and the United States, Pyongyang's deputy UN ambassador has warned. Kim In-ryong told the United Nations General Assembly's disarmament committee the situation "has reached the touch-and-go point" and claimed the US planned to stage a "secret operation aimed at the removal of our supreme leadership". His speech on Monday followed escalating threats exchanged between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US president Donald Trump, and increasingly tough UN sanctions imposed on Pyongyang. The deputy ambassador said North Korea had the right to possess nuclear weapons for self-defence as it was the only country in the world that had faced "such an extreme and direct nuclear threat" from the United States since the 1970s. He pointed to large-scale military exercises staged jointly by the US and South Korea every year using "nuclear assets". Mr Kim claimed North Korea had this year completed its "state nuclear force and thus became the full-fledged nuclear power which possesses the delivery means of various ranges, including the atomic bomb, H-bomb and intercontinental ballistic rockets." He warned: "The entire US mainland is within our firing range and if the US dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe." People cover their heads while taking shelter during an evacuation drill for North Korean missiles in Wajima, Japan, in August / AFP/Getty Images On Monday the European Union announced new sanctions on Pyongyang for developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, while Russian President Vladimir Putin said his country was curtailing economic, scientific and other ties with North Korea in line with existing sanctions. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday that diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the North Korean crisis "will continue until the first bomb drops." His commitment to diplomacy came despite Mr Trump's tweeting several weeks ago his chief envoy was "wasting his time" trying to negotiate with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, whom he derisively referred to as "Little Rocket Man". Trump: The President with Rex Tillerson and Defense Secretary James Mattis / REUTERS North Korea's deputy UN ambassador called his country's nuclear and missile arsenal "a precious strategic asset that cannot be reversed or bartered for anything." "Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the US is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiating table under any circumstances," Mr Kim said. He told the disarmament committee North Korea had hoped for a nuclear-free world. Trump Discusses Tackling North Korea and Iran At The White House Instead, Kim said, all nuclear states were accelerating the modernisation of their weapons and "reviving a nuclear arms race reminiscent of the Cold War era". He noted that the nuclear weapon states, including the US, boycotted negotiations for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons that was approved in July by 122 countries at the UN. "[North Korea] consistently supports the total elimination of nuclear weapons and the efforts for denuclearisation of the entire world," he said, but added his country was "not in a position to accede to the treaty" as long as the US "constantly threatens and blackmails" Pyongyang. On Tuesday, the US said it was not ruling out the possibility of "direct talks" with North Korea to resolve the crisis. Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan had the comments after a briefing with Japanese counterpart Shinsuke Sugiyama. A journalist who spent two years reporting from the Panama Papers has been killed by a car bomb in Malta. Daphne Caruana Galizia died on Monday afternoon when her Peugeot 108 was blown into multiple pieces by a large explosive device. The blogger led coverage into Maltese corruption as part of the Panama Papers. Her journalistic work recently alleged that the Maltese prime minister Joseph Muscats wife received $1 million from Azerbaijans president's daughter, Leyla Aliyeva, through an offshore firm. The scandal that followed, which focused on whether kickbacks were paid for visas in Malta, an EU member, rocked Mr Muscat's government and resulted in a judicial inquiry. A letter laid in tribute to Daphne Caruana Galizia / REUTERS In May, Muscat - who denies the allegations - called a snap election, nine months before his term was due to end. Ms Caruana Galizia was recently described by the Politico website as a "one-woman Wikileaks". Her blogs often drew more hits than the nation's other journalism outlets combined. The 53-year-old had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Malta's main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicle's wreckage spiraling over a wall and into a field, according to the prime minister. Caruana Galizia filed a police report two weeks ago saying she was receiving threats, law enforcement officials told Malta news outlets on Monday. Muscat spoke out swiftly to denounce the killing, calling it a "barbaric attack" on free press. He said he has asked the US government and FBI for help investigating the car bombing. Her murder drew condemnation from across the political spectrum. "Daphne played a vitally important role in unearthing serious allegations of money laundering and corruption in Malta, including those involving senior figures in the Maltese government," said Sven Giegold, a Greens member in the European Parliament. European Parliament President Antonio Tajani in a tweet called the development a "tragic example of a journalist who sacrificed her life to search for the truth." The Panama Papers is a global investigation that began with a leak from the company formation agent Mossack Fonseca to the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) then gave access to the leak to about 100 selected media organisations across six continents. Stories focused on the use of offshore firms by a global elite, including country leaders and former UK prime minister David Cameron's father, to stash their wealth. Offshore companies provide a way to anonymously hold assets, especially when layered through multiple high-secrecy jurisdictions or combined with vehicles such as trusts. More than 300 journalists worked on the project, which later won the Pulitzer Prize for explanatory reporting. H undreds of thousands of people have been left without power and water as a huge recovery operation takes place in the wake of Storm Ophelia. Three people died when hurricane-force winds as high as 119mph battered Ireland on Monday, leaving a path of chaos in its wake. The storm continued across the British Isles on Tuesday, as a yellow weather alert was put in place in Northern Ireland, southern and central Scotland, the north of England and north-west Wales. Weather warnings have now been lifted as the storm moves away from the UK and out to the North Sea. Three dead as storm Ophelia blasts Ireland and the UK In Ireland, which bore the brunt of the storm, around 245,000 homes and businesses are still without power. Help from the rest of the UK is expected to be drafted in on Wednesday to help restore power, ESB, the Republic of Ireland's electricity network, said. Some 20,000 households are without water in Ireland, while schools on both sides of the Irish border remained closed for a second day on Tuesday as authorities assess the damage. In Northern Ireland 3,800 customers are without power, 2,000 in north Wales and 1,100 in Scotland. Three people were killed in the Republic of Ireland on Monday as the former hurricane wreaked havoc. Father-of-two Fintan Goss, 33, was killed in Ravensdale, Dundalk, when a car he was in was hit by a tree. Mr Goss, who had become a dad for the second time just weeks ago, was returning home from work when the accident happened. Michael Pyke, 31, died in a chainsaw accident when he was trying to clear a tree downed by the wind in Cahir, County Tipperary. Swimmers tackle Ophelia's stormy waters His death came after former oncology nurse Clare O'Neill was killed when a tree fell on her car in strong winds near Aglish village in County Waterford. She was due to celebrate her 59th birthday on Tuesday. On Tuesday, Scotland faced gusts of up to 70mph and flood warnings were in place on its west coast as the remnants of the hurricane hit the country and northern England on Tuesday. Hurricane Ophelia: Red Sun - In pictures 1 /29 Hurricane Ophelia: Red Sun - In pictures The Sun goes red again, viewed from top of Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn View: people gathered at top of Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn The Sun goes red again, viewed from top of Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn A plane flies past the Shard in central London, as the sky takes on an unusual orange colour caused by Storm Ophelia Dominic Lipinski/PA Saharan dust pulled over from Africa cast the sun red, experts said. Bella A Morley (Twitter) A stunning London skyline caused by Saharan dust is seen from ITV's South Bank John Manthorpe A sepia-tinted Thames on Monday. Tig Wallace A red sun spotted in the sky over Bromsgrove in Worcestershire, which was caused by Storm Ophelia Neil Pugh/DecisiveImaging/PA A woman photographs the sun rise at Penarth Pier as Hurricane Ophelia approaches the west coast of the United Kingdom Getty Images The red sun as seen from north London on Monday. TCV Green Gym (Twitter) The pretty sky over London. Petals of Perfection (Twitter) 'Everything's gone sepia', one Londoner remarked as pictures showed an orange glow. Phil73 (Twitter) The sky over the Thames was atmospheric on Monday. francislarawan (Twitter) The Met Office reported that storm Ophelia has drawn dust north from the Sahara, near Exeter, causing the strange sight Toby Melville/Reuters The red sun appeared dramatic in the sky. Sue Childs (Twitter) A fisherman looks on at Penarth Pier as Hurricane Ophelia approaches the west coast of the United Kingdom in Penarth, Wales Getty Images An eerie sky looms over Kensington The sky above London darkened much sooner than sunset because of the bizarre weather sparked by Ophelia. francislarawan (Twitter) At 4.20pm, London already looked like night. francislarawan (Twitter) A red sun over london Jeremy Selwyn A red sun over london Jeremy Selwyn A red sun over london Jeremy Selwyn Commuters were hit by delays caused by the weather, with several rail lines blocked by fallen trees and other problems. Train services were temporarily hit between Glasgow and Edinburgh, and from the capital to Aberdeen, Dundee and Perth, as trees were blown on to tracks. In Glasgow part of a derelict block of flats already earmarked for partial demolition collapsed at around 4am, and a scout hall roof was blown off in Dumfries and Galloway as the region took the brunt of winds up to 77mph. In Cumbria the county council said that high winds had torn the roof from a house in Whitehaven and even torn traffic lights from their poles, as well as causing traffic disruption. Part of the roof of a stand at National League team Barrow AFC was also ripped off by the wind. Although weather warnings are no longer in place in the UK, the Met Office said a spell of "very windy weather is likely". Its forecast added: "Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen." Meanwhile Ireland's national emergency co-ordination group was meeting in Dublin on Tuesday to assess the extent of the damage. Prime Minister Theresa May spoke to her Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar on Monday afternoon to offer support. T he White House has rebuffed reports that President Trump joked about his vice-president Mike Pence wanting to "hang" all gay people, dismissing them as "unsubstantiated". According to an article in New Yorker on Monday, the comments were made in a meeting between Trump, Pence and a legal scholar. When the topic turned to LGBTQ rights, Trump reportedly gestured at Pence and said, "Don't ask that guy he wants to hang them all!" But the vice-president's representative, Alyssa Farah, disputed this, telling the Indianapolis Star: "The New Yorker piece is filled with unsubstantiated, unsourced claims that are untrue and offensive." Donald Trump and Mike Pence during the presidential election campaign. / Getty Images The New Yorker profile also reported that the President "belittled Pence's determination to overturn Roe v. Wade", the landmark decision which ruled that the Constitution allows a woman to make her own medical decisions including abortion. LGBTQ advocates in America are concerned that if Pence became president, his conservative views could usher in an era of policymaking that discriminates against women, gay people and other minority groups. The Human Rights Campaign tweeted in response to the alleged joke that hate crime was "no laughing matter". A fter months of referring to Ron Howards Star Wars film as the as-of-yet-untitled Han Solo spin-off, the director has finally confirmed a title with a little help from Chewbacca. The upcoming film, starring Alden Ehrenreich as the titular character, will be called Solo: A Star Wars Story. Howard broke the news in a special Instagram video in which he praised his incredibly talented cast. He said: Hi, well as we wrap up production I want to take this moment to thank an incredibly talented cast and crew for all their hard work. To the fans out there I hope you enjoy the pictures Ive been sharing, pictures Ive been taking from the set of can we even say the name of the movie? Chewbacca then hands Howard a black board which he turns over to reveal the title, before telling fans: Ill see you next year. Fans were predictably ecstatic, with one claiming they had been left with goosebumps while others begged him to release a trailer. One commented: Omg omg omg omg! Goose bumps! Congratulations. Another wrote: Howard, you've done it again! A third posted: Ayeeee now I'm waiting for the trailer. Star Wars: The Last Jedi - In pictures 1 /49 Star Wars: The Last Jedi - In pictures Daisy Ridley as Rey in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm John Boyega as finn battling with Gwendoline Christie as Captain Phasma in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Carrie Fisher as General Leia in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Joonas Suotamo as Chewbacca and a Porg in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Daisy Ridley as Rey in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) Carrie Fisher as General Leia in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm John Boyega as Finn in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Adam Driver as Kylo Ren 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017)) LucasFilm Adam Driver as Kylo Ren 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: the Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: the Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars: the Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Porg in 'Star Wars: the Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: the Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Adam Driver as Kylo Ren 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Gwendoline Christie as Captain Phasma in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Daisy Ridley as Rey in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Adam Driver as Kylo Ren in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Daisy Ridley as Rey in ''Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Oscar Isaac as Poe Dameron in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) Adam Driver as Kylo Ren in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) AP Daisy Ridley as Rey in ''Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm John Boyega as Finn with Kelly Marie Tran as Rose in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Adam Driver as Kylo Ren in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm John Boyega as Finn with Kelly Marie Tran as Rose in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm BB-8 in 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Daisy Ridley as Rey in ''Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017) LucasFilm Howard took over the production after original directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller stepped down in June over creative differences arose between themselves and executive producer Kathleen Kennedy. The Apollo 13 director kept fans up-to-date with throughout the shoot with pictures of elaborate sets and the cast in action. Names including Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover, Thandie Newton, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Woody Harrelson star. Solo: A Star Wars Story is slated for UK cinema release on May 25, 2018. S tacey felt the wrath of Great British Bake Off fans after she clapped back at Paul Hollywood moments after he awarded her one of his coveted handshakes The amateur baker snapped at Hollywood as he criticised her Cumberland Rum Nicky for having too many lattice strips. The remaining contestants were tasked with making the 230 year old tart with a side of rum butter and told to use 14 strips for the lattice. On critiquing Staceys attempt, Hollywood told her she had a very good lattice but that she hadnt followed his instructions. She snapped: You said 14, so we did 14. Red faced: Stacey was criticised by viewers / Channel 4 On counting the strips, Hollywood concluded: Theres 15. A red-faced Stacey replied: Oh Ive always had a problem with maths. Fans were fuming with Staceys attitude, which came moments after Hollywood had shook her hand despite the fact she had presented him with leaky clangers during the signature challenge. One fan tweeted: "When you think you can't get any more annoyed with Stacey... and then she back chats Paul #GBBO." Another wrote: "Bit embarrassing that Stacey got s***** with Paul when she actually did too many #GBBO." Forgotten Bakes week proved problematic for Stacey, who despite impressing Hollywood with her Bedfordshire Clanger, failed to win them over with her Rum Nicky. She was then dealt a devastating blow when she broke her oven door during the Showstopper challenge. The baking aficionado swung shut the door as she put in her savoy cake, only to pull the whole thing off the hinges. She was forced to physically hold the door closed while she waited for her bake to cook. The Great British Bake Off 2017 - The Contestants 1 /17 The Great British Bake Off 2017 - The Contestants Meet the line-up Prue Leigh and Paul Hollywood will judge this year's batch of hopefuls Mark Bourdillon/Channel 4 Television/PA Wire Kate, 29, from Merseyside A health and safety inspector from Merseyside, Kate also dabbles in blacksmithing, furniture restoration and yoga. She also loves the outdoors. When she's indoors though, indulging in her love of baking, she is a fan of "old-fashioned" baking techniques. She taught herself to bake when she began to grow her own vegetables two years ago PA Sophie, 33, from Surrey A former Officer in the Royal Artillery, Sophie did not discover her talent for baking until she volunteered to make a friend's birthday cake. The psychology graduate, who lives in Surrey with her boyfriend and a cat named Loki, has also developed a passion for patisserie. When she is not baking, Sophie enjoys track cycling, rowing, teaching military boot camps and is also training to be a stuntwoman. PA Flo, 71, from Merseyside Flo is retired and the oldest amateur contestant to appear on Bake Off to date. She was one of 11 children and was raised in Huyton, Liverpool. She met her late husband Richard when she was 21 years old and working at a sausage factory. Following Richard's death two years ago, her son Stephen encouraged her to take up baking. She bakes treats for his restaurant when she's not baking for the family - or 'having a boogie' with friends. PA Peter, 52, from Essex Born in Brixton originally, IT programme manager Peter had a well-travelled youth. He lived in Nigeria from the age of seven and moved back to the United Kingdom when he was 24. He has a wife, Tito and two children - Temi and Toni. He was bitten by the baking bug eight years ago when he started making his own bread. He reckons one of his specialities is making a melt-in-your-mouth Macaron, which is based on a recipe from French pastry maestro Pierre Hermes. When he's not kneading dough he loves running on the beach, spinning, playing chess and badminton PA Tom, 29, from Edinburgh Architect Tom lives in Edinburgh with his partner David, where he can often be found making fresh shortbread for family and friends. Baking has always been a huge part of family life for Tom and his siblings, who were taught to bake by their mother, a home economics teacher. The family cherishes recipe books passed down by grandparents from both sides of the family PA Steven, 34, from Hertfordshire Despite having a background in marketing, Steven's heart lies in the kitchen. His mum, Judi, has been his cooking mentor. He cooks and bakes all of his own food and has lost an impressive five stone thanks to his own home-cooking. He likes putting a twist on recipes from his mum's old cookbooks PA James, 46, from Essex James describes himself as a bald, baking banker - but his friends say he looks more like a bank robber than a banker. He was taught to bake by his father more than 40 years ago and grows his own fruit and vegetables to incorporate into his recipes. James lives in Essex with his wife Ann, sons Oliver and Ethan and their three chickens: Sparkles, Superman and Jeff PA Chris, 50, from Bristol A software developer who loves the science behind baking and developing quirky flavour combinations. He is a cancer survivor and passionate about helping other people whose lives have been affected by cancer. He is married (his wife's name is Catherine), and he loves sailing, travelling (especially visiting bakeries) and writing PA Stacey, 42, from Hertfordshire Former school teacher Stacey has fond memories of helping her grandmother make bread and butter pudding when she was a little girl, but it was during university that she really started to bake seriously. Stacey likes to incorporate her Jewish heritage into her baking, with a traditional homemade Challah with every Friday night dinner PA Julia, 32, from West Sussex Julia has spent three years honing her baking prowess so she could enter Bake Off. She is originally from Kemerovo, Siberia. She met her husband Matt while on holiday in Turkey as a 17-year-old. PA Liam, 19, from North London Hackney-born Liam has been baking for four years and is fondly known as the 'Cake Boy' amongst his university friends. He believes that baking is a universal language that can bring people together from all walks of life, and he wants to make it acceptable amongst his peers and the younger generation PA Yan, 46, from North London Hong Kong-born Yan moved to the UK with her family when she was two. She started to bake seriously 10 years ago when she found herself in between 24 hour shifts, working as a molecular biologist for the NHS. Currently working as a laboratory research scientist, Yan now lives in north London with her wife, Marian and cat Kacey. PA Great British Bake Off is on Channel 4, Tuesday at 8pm. L iam struggled to compose himself as he narrowly missed out on a place in the Great British Bake Off semi-final. The amateur baker was sent packing from the famous tent by Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith after failing to impress them with his showstopper. Host Sandi Toksvig looked close to tears as she announced the bad news, which caused Liam to break down. Speaking about crashing out of the competition he said: In all fairness I can look back tomorrow morning and think yh I smashed it. Onwards and upwards now. This is just the beginning. Im coming for Paul Hollywoods job in a few years time. The Great British Bake Off 2017 - The Contestants 1 /17 The Great British Bake Off 2017 - The Contestants Meet the line-up Prue Leigh and Paul Hollywood will judge this year's batch of hopefuls Mark Bourdillon/Channel 4 Television/PA Wire Kate, 29, from Merseyside A health and safety inspector from Merseyside, Kate also dabbles in blacksmithing, furniture restoration and yoga. She also loves the outdoors. When she's indoors though, indulging in her love of baking, she is a fan of "old-fashioned" baking techniques. She taught herself to bake when she began to grow her own vegetables two years ago PA Sophie, 33, from Surrey A former Officer in the Royal Artillery, Sophie did not discover her talent for baking until she volunteered to make a friend's birthday cake. The psychology graduate, who lives in Surrey with her boyfriend and a cat named Loki, has also developed a passion for patisserie. When she is not baking, Sophie enjoys track cycling, rowing, teaching military boot camps and is also training to be a stuntwoman. PA Flo, 71, from Merseyside Flo is retired and the oldest amateur contestant to appear on Bake Off to date. She was one of 11 children and was raised in Huyton, Liverpool. She met her late husband Richard when she was 21 years old and working at a sausage factory. Following Richard's death two years ago, her son Stephen encouraged her to take up baking. She bakes treats for his restaurant when she's not baking for the family - or 'having a boogie' with friends. PA Peter, 52, from Essex Born in Brixton originally, IT programme manager Peter had a well-travelled youth. He lived in Nigeria from the age of seven and moved back to the United Kingdom when he was 24. He has a wife, Tito and two children - Temi and Toni. He was bitten by the baking bug eight years ago when he started making his own bread. He reckons one of his specialities is making a melt-in-your-mouth Macaron, which is based on a recipe from French pastry maestro Pierre Hermes. When he's not kneading dough he loves running on the beach, spinning, playing chess and badminton PA Tom, 29, from Edinburgh Architect Tom lives in Edinburgh with his partner David, where he can often be found making fresh shortbread for family and friends. Baking has always been a huge part of family life for Tom and his siblings, who were taught to bake by their mother, a home economics teacher. The family cherishes recipe books passed down by grandparents from both sides of the family PA Steven, 34, from Hertfordshire Despite having a background in marketing, Steven's heart lies in the kitchen. His mum, Judi, has been his cooking mentor. He cooks and bakes all of his own food and has lost an impressive five stone thanks to his own home-cooking. He likes putting a twist on recipes from his mum's old cookbooks PA James, 46, from Essex James describes himself as a bald, baking banker - but his friends say he looks more like a bank robber than a banker. He was taught to bake by his father more than 40 years ago and grows his own fruit and vegetables to incorporate into his recipes. James lives in Essex with his wife Ann, sons Oliver and Ethan and their three chickens: Sparkles, Superman and Jeff PA Chris, 50, from Bristol A software developer who loves the science behind baking and developing quirky flavour combinations. He is a cancer survivor and passionate about helping other people whose lives have been affected by cancer. He is married (his wife's name is Catherine), and he loves sailing, travelling (especially visiting bakeries) and writing PA Stacey, 42, from Hertfordshire Former school teacher Stacey has fond memories of helping her grandmother make bread and butter pudding when she was a little girl, but it was during university that she really started to bake seriously. Stacey likes to incorporate her Jewish heritage into her baking, with a traditional homemade Challah with every Friday night dinner PA Julia, 32, from West Sussex Julia has spent three years honing her baking prowess so she could enter Bake Off. She is originally from Kemerovo, Siberia. She met her husband Matt while on holiday in Turkey as a 17-year-old. PA Liam, 19, from North London Hackney-born Liam has been baking for four years and is fondly known as the 'Cake Boy' amongst his university friends. He believes that baking is a universal language that can bring people together from all walks of life, and he wants to make it acceptable amongst his peers and the younger generation PA Yan, 46, from North London Hong Kong-born Yan moved to the UK with her family when she was two. She started to bake seriously 10 years ago when she found herself in between 24 hour shifts, working as a molecular biologist for the NHS. Currently working as a laboratory research scientist, Yan now lives in north London with her wife, Marian and cat Kacey. PA Hollywood said: I feel so sorry for Liam hes done really well to reach the quarter final but he had a bad showstopper and thats what it came down to. The decision left viewers vowing to turn their backs on the Channel 4 show, with many claiming Kate should have been given the boot after two consecutive weeks of questionable bakes. One viewer tweeted: "WELL THATS BAKE OFF DONE FOR THIS YEAR THANKS FOR WATCHING GUYS." Another wrote: "I'M NOT WATCHING IT ANYMORE AIN'T WORTH IT I DONT CARE WHO WINS. LIAM WAS THE REAL WINNER #GBBO." This week saw the bakers tasked with creating Bedfordshire Clangers, Cumberland Rum Nickys and Savoy cakes for Forgotten Bakes week. Despite losing an oven door during the showstopper challenge, Stacey was awarded Star Baker for the first time this series. Great British Bake Off is on Channel 4, Tuesday at 8pm. 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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. In 2017 China announced that it had developed two new laser guided missiles for use on UAVs, helicopters and fixed wing warplanes. The smaller one is the AR-2, which is a copy of the American APKWS. AR-2 weighs 17 kg (40 pounds) with a five kg warhead and 8 kilometer range. APKWS is a smaller Hellfire type design based on World War II era 70mm unguided rockets that is proving very useful. This mini-Hellfire is basically a 13.6 kg (30 pound) 70mm rockets, with a laser seeker, flight controls, a 2.7 kg (six pound) warhead, and a range of about six kilometers. The other new Chinese missile is an 80 kg (176 pound) missile that apparently has, in addition to laser guidance, a new LOBL (Lock-On Before Launch) capability that uses some new targeting system features of the larger Chinese UAVs (like the CH-4, CH-5 and GJ-1) and probably involves fire and forget capabilities as used in the British Brimstone. China has always offered Chinese made weapons for their larger UAVs. Chief among these are a Hellfire clone, the AR-1. This is a 45 kg (99 pound) missile with a max range of 10 kilometers and a 10 kg (22 pound) warhead. AR-1 can be equipped with either GPS or laser guidance. AR-1 first showed up in the late 1990s as the HJ-10. That missile, as is the Chinese custom, evolved into several different, but similar, weapons. The AR-1 and BA-7 are most often offered for use on UAVs as a Hellfire substitute. The need for these new lightweight missiles was prompted by the growing demand for Chinese UAVs that can use them. In early 2106 China began marketing a new combat UAV in the Rainbow series; the CH-5. This one is similar to the 4.6 ton American MQ-9 Reaper but a bit lighter at three tons. The CH-5 has a 900 kg payload and can carry smart (GPS guided) bombs as well as laser guided missiles (similar to the American Hellfire). CH-5 made its first flight in 2015, apparently has endurance of up to twenty hours and is supposed to be available for delivery in 2017. Promotional materials stress the large quantity and variety of guided weapons these larger UAVs can carry. For example in addition to all those laser guided missiles China also offers their version of the American SDB (small diameter bomb) which is a 128 kg (281 pound) GPS guided glide bomb in the shape of a missile with a penetrating warhead. The Chinese version is the FT-5 and is a 100 kg (220 pound) GPS guided bomb also shaped like a missile. China encourages its many UAV and missile manufacturers to make their weapons and UAV targeting systems interchangeable to increase the options available to potential customers. This has worked out quite well and that accounts for the strong export sales of Chinese UAVs and a growing array of Chinese sensors and weapons to equip these drones with. PACIFIC OCEAN (September 18, 2017) -- B-1B Lancer bombers flanked by USMC F-35 Lightning II and JASDF F-2 fighters execute a bilateral mission over the Pacific Ocean, demonstrating the United States' ironclad commitment to our allies in the face of aggressive and unlawful North Korean missile tests. (Courtesy Photo by Japan Air Self Defense Force) X 0 20 Help Keep Us Soaring We need your help! Our subscription base has slowly been dwindling. We need your help in reversing that trend. We would like to add 20 new subscribers this month. Each month we count on your subscriptions or contributions. You can support us in the following ways: Apple has been ordered by a US District Court to pay Texas-based company VirnetX $439,727,418 in patent infringement damages and legal fees. This legal battle has been going on for years and it's not over yet as Apple plans to appeal. The contest started clear back in 2010 when VirnetX brought suit on Apple for using patented technologies that it owned. The tech was apparently used in the FaceTime app and a VPN on-demand feature. In a convoluted series of trials, mistrials and appeals, VirnetX was eventually awarded $302 million in August 2016. However, Apple filed another motion for mistrial which was granted. The judge found that plaintiff attorneys had prejudiced the jury by repeatedly bringing up a previous lawsuit's judgment. The judge ordered a new trial which just concluded on September 29. However, VirnetX did not go public with the verdict until today. According to PR Newswire, a jury awarded VirnetX the original $302 million. The willful nature of the infringement prompted the judge to increase the royalty rate from $1.20 to $1.80 per violation for a total of an additional $41,271,364. The court also awarded legal fees totaling $96,028,103. When the dust settled, Apple found itself at the end of a $439.7 million judgment. VirnetX CEO Kendall Larsen said, "We are elated with the Court's Final Judgement of $439 million in that not only did it affirm the jury's verdict of $1.20 per infringing iPhone, iPad and Mac Product, but also added for willful infringement, interest and attorney fees. This is the third time a jury has ruled in our favor against Apple." Cupertino had no comment other than it is planning to appeal. The decision to retry rather than walk away seems to be one based more on principle than economics. Apple has not made public how much this legal battle has cost it over the last seven years but it is likely to rival the judgment amount. However, it may be a case that Apple is taking a stand against a company that is a known "patent troll." VirnetX does not produce any products. It seems its business model is to file patents hoping to rope large companies into either licensing its technology or chasing them for settlements with patent infringement lawsuits. Some of the patents VirnetX holds are sketchy at best. In fact, Bloomberg reports that the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has invalidated all four of the patents that VirnetX was suing Apple over. It could be that Cupertino heads are just biding time hoping that the patent invalidations stand against VirnetX's inevitable appeal with the USPTO. Currently, the most affected departments are Cauca, Cundinamarca, Choco, Norte de Santander, and Santander. | Read More Nissan ProPILOT Assist Technology Makes U.S. Debut on 2018 Rogue Reduces The Hassle Of Stop-And-Go Highway Driving New ProPILOT Assist hands-on-wheel technology paves the way to the next level of autonomous driving Unique Nissan Intelligent Mobility approach enhances the driving experience by introducing technologies to make vehicles more intelligent, exciting and attainable partners NASHVILLE, TN - October 17, 2017: Nissan's ProPILOT Assist technology, continuing to pave the way for future fully autonomous vehicles, will be available on the company's bestseller, the Rogue compact SUV. ProPILOT Assist reduces the hassle of stop-and-go driving by helping control acceleration, braking and steering during single-lane highway driving. ProPILOT Assist2 is the foundation for the autonomous vehicles of the future, helping drivers maintain lane control, navigate stop-and-go traffic, maintain a set vehicle speed and maintain a set distance to the vehicle ahead all with a simple two-button operation. ProPILOT Assist is available on the 2018 Rogue SL grade as part of the Platinum Package, with an expected starting price1 under $35,000 when it hits dealer lots later this month. "Nissan continues to democratize technology, bringing our most advanced systems to our highest volume models, rather than reserving them for our most expensive vehicles," said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. "Customers are delighted when they realize they can afford technology usually reserved for high-end, expensive luxury vehicles. Bringing unexpected value is core to the Nissan brand and our Nissan Intelligent Mobility mission." Following Rogue, ProPILOT Assist will next launch on the Nissan LEAF in January 2018. Nissan has plans to extend the technology to more models in the U.S., Europe, Japan and China with 10 models to be launched by 2020 by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, the world's largest automotive manufacturer. The 2018 Rogue is available in three well-equipped grade level: S, SV and SL. As in previous years, Rogue offers exceptional passenger and cargo flexibility with its innovative EZ Flex Seating System and Divide-N-Hide Cargo System. Along with the new ProPILOT Assist, other enhancements to the 2018 Rogue include the addition of standard NissanConnectSM featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trim levels, and revised Midnight Edition Package content. Rogue continues to set monthly sales records, including a 47% increase in September. Calendar year 2017 sales-to-date of nearly 300,000 units represents a 22.9% increase over the previous year. "The world is facing serious challenges such as climate change, traffic congestion, road fatalities and increasing air pollution. Through Nissan Intelligent Mobility, we are committed to addressing these challenges by making transportation safer, smarter, and more enjoyable," said Bunce. "The new ProPILOT Assist technology is a perfect example of how we can make drivers feel more confident and more connected to their vehicles." About ProPILOT Assist The 2018 Nissan Rogue's new ProPILOT Assist2 eases driver workload by reducing the amount of driver acceleration, steering and braking input under certain driving conditions. To activate the system, the driver simply pushes the blue ProPILOT Assist ON button, which is integrated into the right-side steering wheel spoke. Step two is to set the Intelligent Cruise Control when the desired speed is reached, as with a normal advanced cruise control system. When lane markers are consistently detected, steering assist engages and the steering wheel/lane marker icons on the instrument panel turn green. Both right and left hand markers need to be detected by the front camera. Steering assist will engage or disengage depending on the visibility or presence of lane markers, though the Intelligent Cruise Control will remain active. If the vehicle comes to a complete stop in a traffic jam situation for more than three seconds, the driver just presses the resume button or taps the accelerator pedal to begin moving again. Tested about 200,000 miles on U.S. roads and tuned specifically for U.S. roads, ProPILOT Assist is designed to be more intuitive and user-friendly compared to other driver-assist technologies. It can potentially help lessen driver fatigue and create a more confident driving experience especially for drivers who experience heavy highway traffic on a daily basis. It utilizes a forward-facing camera, forward-facing radar, sensors and electronic control module to help the driver stay in the center of the driving lane and to maintain vehicle speed (set by the driver) or help maintain a gap to the preceding vehicle if the vehicle speed drops below the driver-set speed. It also can slow the vehicle to a complete stop and holds the vehicle during traffic jam conditions. Steering assist is cancelled in inclement weather if the windshield wipers are in the low or high position (if lane lines can be detected, the system can remain active when the wipers are in the intermittent mode or if the mist function is activated). The driver's input always takes priority, overriding the system when the steering wheel is turned or the turn signal is operated (steering assistance goes into a temporary standby mode). The system also goes into temporary standby mode when the accelerator pedal is pressed. The system's Intelligent Cruise Control and lane keep assistance are both cancelled when the brakes are applied. Caroline Gaimaris apartment in the 11th arrondissement. Photo: Courtesy of Studio NOCC Caroline Gaimari arrived in Paris 15 years ago for what she thought would be a six-month student exchange program. She surprised herself and never left. A creative consultant and stylist, and the former fashion director of Purple magazine, Gaimari splits her time between Paris and the United States but just put down considerable roots in the French capital, with the purchase of her first-ever apartment. She enlisted her friends at Studio NOCC to turn the petite la boheme apartment into a crisp, modern Parisian home. Fantasize about a little pied-a-terre in Paris, and chances are youll picture something like Gaimaris 485-square-feet apartment in the 11th arrondissement. Gaimari found her home with the help of an apartment hunter. I tried my hand for three to four months looking on my own on websites, she says. But anything thats online is a dud. You have to actually go there and show your face, show that you want it. After Gaimari snagged this jewel, she felt it needed a renovation. We designed a singular folded steel sheet thats only 10 millimeters thick, says Juan Pablo Naranjo, one of NOCCs three architects, of the new staircase. Thanks to its thinness, it looks extremely light to the eye, but it brings some volume and structure to the room. It also plays nicely as a contemporary element in comparison to the classic French beams that make up the ceiling. When Gaimari first came to see the apartment (seen here), the downstairs had been divided into three little rooms, and had an old wood stair. She was sold on the light: It has windows everywhere, she says. Plus there is an elevator in the building. Photo: Carline Gaimari Photo: Courtesy of Studio NOCC Carline Gaimari There is nothing we didnt touch, Gaimari says of the renovation, which included putting down new floors. Naranjo says one of the biggest challenges, and a common one in old Parisian apartments, is getting the floor level. Here you see the underside of the new staircase. A view of the living room, from when Gaimari saw the apartment before buying it. Photo: Carline Gaimari The living room, with a kitchen and dining table in the foreground, after the renovation by Studio NOCC. Photo: Courtesy of Studio NOCC The first task was to make what used to be three separate studio apartments into one bigger apartment that made sense, Naranjo says. To accomplish this, we took out everything that was superfluous and rationalized the space. On the ground floor we turned what used to be three individual spaces into an open multi-purpose living and entertaining space. There is a Wendy Wright chair by Philippe Starck by the window and the Aerial standing lamp is from Falke Svatun Studio. The carpet is from Serge Lesage. The kitchen prior to renovation. Photo: Carline Gaimari The kitchen, seen here, after the renovation by Studio NOCC. Photo: Courtesy of Studio NOCC I love to cook, Gaimair says. I have dinners all the time, and I can fit eight around the table. If needed, the kitchen counter doubles as the dining table. Caroline wanted a statement piece as the backsplash of the kitchen, Naranjo says. We wanted to find something that would be a beautiful focal point, and we found this Macuba blue marble from Brazil. The shades of the blue and gray have a pictural aspect to them that make the piece look like a landscape photograph, or an abstract painting. Studio NOCC reversed the original floor plan, putting the bedroom downstairs and the bathroom and dressing room up on the mezzanine. This way it is its own loft haven, Naranjo says. The mini glo-ball lights are by Jasper Morrison for Flos. Photo: Courtesy of Studio NOCC The floor plan after the renovation. Photo: Courtesy of Studio NOCC It is my first apartment, Gaimari says happily. It is part of my commitment to my first love: France! Harvey Weinstein. Photo: John Phillips/Getty Images As more women continue to come forward to accuse Harvey Weinstein of sexual harassment and assault, one of the producers former assistants is now speaking out about the alleged abuse his female staffers endured and how he allegedly manipulated them to enable his behavior. Many women have claimed that Weinsteins assistants would help set up hotel meetings between them and the Hollywood titan. Some of the meetings would then begin with his female assistants present, only for them to later leave the victims alone so that Weinstein could prey upon them. In an interview with the Guardian, the ex-staffer explained that Weinstein would regularly exploit and manipulate female employees as well, and that they had no idea they were enabling sexual assault or rape. Women Share Their Experiences With Sexual Assault and Harassment We werent safe either, the unnamed woman, who was Weinsteins assistant in London in the last five years, told the Guardian. It was an abusive relationship on every level. The woman, who requested anonymity, said that she was in her early 30s while working for the Weinstein Company, and that Weinstein continually forced his staff to facilitate and cover up his philandering. He had manipulated everyone in his path with that one purpose, and that was for sex, she said. Its awful. I should have walked out. I should have said something. The former assistant went on to explain that sex was a daily part of my life working for him, as so much of her role ended up being about enabling him. She added that she and her fellow female employees also suffered verbal abuse, vicious threats and intimidation, and that they were scared of him and feared what would happen if they didnt do as he asked. We were in danger, too. You think youre going to get this illustrious career. You want to believe you are going to succeed. He preys on this. He preys on young, vulnerable people he can manipulate, she told the Guardian. The ex-Weinstein staffer noted that shes relieved that women are coming forward to call Weinstein out for his behavior, and that she hopes this leads to a shift in how women are treated by men in the workplace. Photo: Stefania DAlessandro/Getty Images for BALLY During New York Fashion Week this September, it was announced that Robbie Myers was leaving Elle after 17 years, and that Nina Garcia, formerly of Marie Claire, would be the magazines new editor-in-chief. Today, Marie Claire shared during the magazines second annual Power Trip in San Francisco that Kate Lanphear will fill Garcias role as creative director. I loved working with Nina Garcia for five years, Marie Claires editor-in-chief, Anne Fulenwider, told the Cut exclusively. Im really happy for her in her new job and I really cant wait to see what she does at Elle. But when it came time to filling Garcias shoes, Lanphear was someone whom Fulenwider thought of immediately for her unique experience and taste, and who comes highly recommended from a number of people in the industry. Lanphears resume is long and varied. She got her start at Vogue and Harpers Bazaar in Australia, later moving to New York to become the style director at Elle and T magazine. In 2014, she was named the first female editor-in-chief at Maxim, where she was tasked with a full redesign of the mens magazine, but left after only one year. Lanphear has since moved on to consult for Google, helping them develop a fashion portal in the Arts and Culture division. As creative director, Lanphear will be responsible for expanding Marie Claires fashion footprint across multiple platforms and continuing to define the brands style. She will also oversee the magazines fashion shoots and creative design of the fashion pages. Ultimately, it was Lanphears experience in fashion and technology that really stood out to Fulenwider, and Lanphear herself is excited to return to magazines with this new and valuable insight. Sometimes, we focus so much on creating content, but it gets lost because no ones quite created the secret sauce on how to amplify it, and break through, Lanphear said on what shes gleaned about publishing after stepping outside it. Were armed with so much data that its about distilling it down. When it comes to trying to decipher it, I dont have all the answers no one does but Ive just gotten a lot better at understanding what all the signs point to. Its been a turbulent time for magazines, especially womens titles, but Lanphear is clearly recharged, digitally savvy, and ready for a challenge. Meanwhile, Fulenwider is unshaken. The only constant in the five years that Ive been editor-in-chief of Marie Claire has been change, Fulenwider said on the subject. Rapid, sudden, continuing change. But I think its exciting, and can present a ton of opportunities. Martha Stewart. Photo: Sam Deitch/BFA.com/Samantha Deitch/BFA.com As more women continue to come forward to share allegations of sexual harassment and assault in Hollywood, Martha Stewart opened up about experiencing harassment as a young woman starting out in the industry. In a new interview with People, Stewart revealed that she was sexually harassed while working as a model when she was only 16 years old. The encounter occurred while Stewart was attending a go-see audition, during which she was asked to wear a bikini under her clothes. The domestic mogul assumed it was for a beach commercial or something, only to soon realize that was not the case. Per People: So I go into the room and theres a table with all men sitting around it and its an advertisement agency, I cant remember which one it was. They said, Now you can take your clothes off, and I said, Oh, is this where are we doing the commercial? Are we wearing bikinis in the commercial. They said, No, but as long as youre here we might as well see what you look like. I thought that was harassment of the first order. Stewart explained that she had her own radar out already and was able to pull herself out of the situation before it got out of hand. I just walked out of the room. I said, Im sorry, gentleman. This is not what Im here for. And I left, she said. Thats harassment, but theres other kinds of harassment. The media titan added that she hopes sharing her story shows other women that you can walk out of the room. It might hurt your career so youll find something better somewhere else. Women Share Their Experiences With Sexual Assault and Harassment Richard Spencer. Photo: Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images Governor Rick Scott of Florida declared a state of emergency on Monday ahead of white nationalist Richard Spencers upcoming speech at the University of Florida, warning in an executive order that a threat of a potential emergency is imminent, the Washington Post reports. In August, Spencer led hundreds of white supremacists carrying torches and chanting, You will not replace us and, Jews will not replace us at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. The violent rally turned deadly the following day, after a man plowed a car into a crowd of counterprotesters, prompting a state of emergency to be declared in Virginia at the time. Shortly thereafter, the University of Florida told Spencer he could not host his planned event on campus, but the white nationalists supporters and an attorney argued the decision went against the First Amendment, according to the Post. The university therefore agreed to let Spencer schedule his speech for this week. Governor Scott said in a statement that his executive order was written to aid law-enforcement officials response to the rallies that have been planned for Thursday in Alachua County, which is where the university is located. It will allow local law enforcement to work with state and other agencies, and the governor is also planning on activating the Florida National Guard to assist if necessary. The Post notes that university officials have also said that they plan to spend $500,000 on security for the event. In response to the order, Spencer told the Post, This worries me. I dont get it. I hope hes doing this with good intentions. However, Alachua County sheriff Sadie Darnell told the Post, We have looked at what happened in Charlottesville and Berkeley. Were not being alarmist. But we want to be prepared. Last Saturday in New York, hundreds of rainbow-clad protesters walked peacefully toward Trump Tower chanting, They are queer; bring them here; we will never live in fear. Supporting Voices 4 Chechnya, an LGBTQ+ international support group, they marched to demand resettlement visas and humanitarian parole for thousands of LGBTQ+ people who are currently trapped in Chechnya and mainland Russia because of persecution. Captives have reportedly been murdered and tortured at the hands of Chechen state officials and even members of their own families. In Manhattan, marchers walked from the Stonewall Inn to Trump Tower, symbolically confronting president Donald Trump, who has not yet spoken on the matter. Russian-American journalist Masha Gessen and celebrities including the drag queens Katya and Milk, from RuPauls Drag Race, joined the protest to honor the Voices 4 Chechnya platform: to support queer individuals both near and far. Click through to see images from the protest. Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Jamie Dimon speaks at a Fortune 500 event at the New York Stock Exchange in New York City on May 7, 2012. Dimon, like many establishment players, likes blockchain but not bitcoin. (Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Time) Blockchain Good, Bitcoin Bad Why so many establishment players back blockchain technology, but not bitcoin WASHINGTONJPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon is perhaps the best example of the type: He thinks bitcoin investors are stupid and that the digital blockchain money will be closedyet his company is developing its own blockchain called Quorum, and it backs a bitcoin competitor called ethereum. Dimon is not alone. Across established institutions like the big banks, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the Federal Reserve, there is a pattern of thinking that goes like this: Bitcoin is bad, but blockchain technology is good. You must not confuse the general concept of a decentralized ledger for trading ownership claims with the specific application of this decentralized ledger that we started with, which was bitcoin, said Willem Buiter, chief economist of Citigroup, who also called bitcoin an unfortunate start to the blockchain revolution. However, he thinks blockchain technology could lead to interbank and central bank settlement systems. Along the same lines, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde told CNBC the fund may design its own cryptocurrency to make the IMF money, the Special Drawing Rights (SDR), more efficient. She has also spoken about the possibility of bank and central bank clearing on a blockchain. It would actually not be in our powers to prohibit and regulate [bitcoin]. Mario Draghi, president , European Central Bank Fintech is really in fashion. Is it hype? Is it reality? What is it that is generating that much interest? she asked at an hour-long panel discussion on financial technology, during the IMF annual meetings in Washington earlier this month. And yet, when discussing the answers to Lagardes questions, the panelists made no mention of bitcoin, and there were no bitcoin representatives on the panel. Even intellectuals outside of the mainstream, like best-selling author James Rickards, buy into blockchain technology but dont like bitcoin. I separate the blockchain technology from the cryptocurrency bitcoin. Blockchain technology has a very bright future. Thats a very cool technology, he told The Epoch Times. Bitcoin looks like a bubble or a sandbox for criminals. Control Freaks In reality, bitcoin is used for only a fraction of all payments, including criminal activity, which is mostly done in cash or goes through the banking systemhence, the $2 billion fine JPMorgan had to pay because it failed to report the suspicious activity of Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff. And thats one of many examples of big banks paying billions in fines because they break the rules. The real issue, however, is control. The establishment hates bitcoin because it cant control it. The Federal Reserve chair has said it has no [technical] authority to regulate bitcoin. Transactions will clear if valid, and will not clear if not valid, and there is nothing that regulators can do to overturn the consensus of the network processing power, writes professor Saifedean Ammous, in a research paper on blockchain technology. The president of the European Central Bank, Mario Draghi, also said as much at the European Parliament in September. It would actually not be in our powers to prohibit and regulate [bitcoin], Draghi said. So far, bitcoin is the only cryptocurrency sufficiently decentralized to the point where no individual or single group of people can change the protocol, including the amount of money issued. Any blockchain designed by JPMorgan or the IMF may have a distributed ledger, but its probably going to reside behind a firewall and wont be open source. And even then, there will be a group of people controlling the protocol and the network, which makes it a centralized decentralized solution. Back to square one. The only commercially successful application of blockchain technology so far is digital cash, and in particular, bitcoin. Saifedean Ammous, author, The Bitcoin Standard Bitcoin is inconvenient for central banks because it doesnt allow them to print money at will, and therefore they cannot control the money supply. The banks also cannot control the lending and issuance of their own credit money, the source of their oligopoly profits. It is inconvenient for credit card companies because they cannot control the relatively low fees bitcoin charges for transactions, which may be one reason Mastercard is also backing ethereum. And at the highest level, with the bitcoin protocol, the IMF cant control who gets how much of its nonexistent SDR money, which at this moment is just a claim on its members individual currencies. The IMF could save itself the trouble of developing its own blockchain and make the most successful blockchainbitcoina reserve asset. And yet it shows no inclination to do so. Instead, it talks about controlling and regulating other cryptocurrencies and fintech companies, which are trying to fill the gap in services that banks cannot and dont want to provide to poorer people, especially in developing countries. Vector of Attack If its true that bitcoin is sufficiently decentralized such that it cannot be shut down as Dimon would like, or regulated as Draghi says, then there are only two vectors of attack left. The first one is to talk it down like Dimon and Buiter do. This approach has been ineffective, as bitcoin is up 483 percent this year, roughly 48 times better than JPMorgan stock at 11 percent. In fact, when priced in bitcoin, JPMorgans stock fell almost to zero in 2017. [Bitcoin] is definitely more decentralized than say ethereum, or Bitcoin Cash, or any of these other ones. Jimmy Song, bitcoin core developer So this strategy may have the opposite effect, as more people become curious about bitcoin even if the news coverage is negative. The other strategy is to ignore bitcoin and focus on different blockchain and fintech systems, which was very apparent at the IMF annual meetings in Washington. This strategy is working because many people dont understand the difference between a system that is truly decentralized and one that is decentralized in name only. Theres a lot of different implementations of bitcoin. Theres a lot of different nodes and software and wallets. You have exchanges, you have this whole infrastructure thats very motivated to make it good, Bitcoin developer Jimmy Song told The Epoch Times. Its definitely more decentralized than say ethereum, or Bitcoin Cash, or any of these other ones. A lot of them have foundations or a group of developers who run the show. So by funding and promoting other blockchain-type solutions, big companies and governments can divert resources away from bitcoin, thereby slowing its growth. This is why bitcoin only has 54.5 percent of the total market capitalization of all cryptoassets worth $176 billion. As for their initiatives, they remain little more than words for now, according to a survey done by Ammous in late 2016. He wrote, The only commercially successful application of blockchain technology so far is digital cash, and in particular, bitcoin. Florida Congressional Candidate Says She Was Abducted by Aliens A Florida congressional candidate is fighting to be known more for her experiences with people than with extraterrestrials. Bettina Rodriguez Aguilera, who is running as a Republican for a seat in the House of Representatives, has faced scrutiny for interviews she gave years ago detailing her experience with aliens. In a 2009 interview she gave to Spanish language TV station TeVe Canal 41, she said she was first contacted by aliens when she was 7 years old and was instructed telepathically to visit them in their spaceship. She said the craft was controled by quartz stones, and that the aliens looked similar to the blonde female host who was interviewing her. She said there were three of them, two males and one female, and they reminded her of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. They connected with her again telepathically many times over the years and told her secrets pertaining to the present and future. Among them were that the center of the worlds energy was in Africa, that there were some 30,000 skulls different from humans buried in subterranean caves on the island of Malta, and that the Coral Castle, a limestone tourist attraction in South Miami-Dade, is actually an ancient Egyptian pyramid. She detailed predictions they made about people she would meet in her lifedown to the year, month, and daythat came to pass. She also hinted in the 2009 interview that they told her about ISISor possibly the Egyptian goddess Isis. It would take a long time to explain, she said when the host asked who that was. The Miami Herald contacted Rodriguez Aguilera on Friday, Oct. 13 to ask about her experiences with extraterrestrials and got the following statement: For years people, including Presidents like Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter and astronauts have publicly claimed to have seen unidentified flying objects and scientists like Stephen Hawking and institutions like the Vatican have stated that there are billions of galaxies in the universe and we are probably not alone. I personally am a Christian and have a strong belief in God, I join the majority of Americans who believe that there must be intelligent life in the billions of planets and galaxies in the universe. While still controversial, the existence of UFOs and extraterrestrials has been acknowledged by some governments. This year, the Town of St. Louis in Alberta, Canada, is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its UFO landing pad with an adjacent education center that has actual photographs of UFOs, crop circles, and cattle mutilations, its website says. In 2014, some former Congress members convened a panel seeking official information on the sightings of UFOs and extraterrestrials. Former United States Air Force officers gave personal accounts of seeing multiple unidentified craft hover over nuclear launch sites in Wyoming and North Dakota, and described how the craft shut down ballistic missiles, stopped vehicles, and cut radio communication. After five days of hearings, four of the six former Congress members signed a communique saying they would pursue a world conference dedicated to discovering the truth behind overwhelming scientific evidence that unexplained craft and extraterrestrial intelligence exist. And last January, the CIA published several lists of declassified documents on UFO and extraterrestrial sightings. The lists feature cases from the late 1940s to 1950s, a period of intense CIA interest in UFOs. Around the same time, the Air Force recorded 12,618 sightings, of which 701 remain unidentified. Shar Adams contributed to this report From NTD.tv White nationalist Richard Spencer speaks to select media in his office space in Alexandria, Virginia on Aug. 14, 2017. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images) Florida Gov. Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Speech by White Nationalist at UF Florida Governor Rick Scott issued a state of emergency on Oct. 16, ahead of a speech by white nationalist Richard Spencer at the University of Florida, citing violence at his previous speaking engagements. Scotts executive order noted that prior speeches by Spencer in Virginia, Alabama, California, and Texas, have sparked protests and counter-protests resulting in episodes of violence, civil unrest, and multiple arrests. The order came at the request of Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell, Scott said, and will open up state and other law-enforcement resources to assist the sheriffs office in the event of violence on campus or in the city. It will also allow the governor to access emergency funding. We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority, said Scott in a statement. I have been in constant contact with Sheriff Darnell who has requested this Executive Order to ensure that county and local law enforcement have every needed resource. This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe. Spencer is set to speak at the Gainesville campus on Thursday, Oct. 19. He told the Associated Press that the emergency declaration was flattering but most likely overkill. Im not a hurricane or an invading army, at least not literally, he said via telephone on Monday, Oct. 16. The university initially denied Spencers request to rent a space on campus, but eventually acquiesced when Spencers attorney threatened the school with a lawsuit. As a public educational institution, UF may not ban hate speech, the school said. We must balance our aspirations and values against our legal obligations to protect the First Amendment rights of alleven those with views and values contrary to UFs fundamental principles. It warned students that any protesters who become violent will be arrested and prosecuted, and that weapons, masks, backpacks, and a long list of other things will be banned during the event. Spencers speech has no sponsorship from either the school nor any group on campus, the university said, and the National Policy Institute, a white nationalist think tank that Spencer is the president of, is paying $10,500 to rent the facility and for security within it. The state-run school and other agencies have planned to spend up to $500,000 on security on campus and in the city, the school said in a Q&A about the event. This includes costs from the University of Florida Police Department, Gainesville Police Department, Alachua County Sheriffs Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Highway Patrol and other agencies providing first responders. Janine Sikes, the universitys assistant vice president of public affairs, said in a statement that there has been no tangible threat to the schools security and that all actions law enforcement and the school are taking are pre-emptive. She also encouraged everyone to avoid the event. Dont let the University of Florida be defined by Richard Spencer, she said to students in a statement. Florida Governor Rick Scott issued a state of emergency on Oct. 16, ahead of a speech by white nationalist Richard Spencer at the University of Florida, citing violence at his previous speaking engagements. Scotts executive order noted that prior speeches by Spencer in Virginia, Alabama, California, and Texas, have sparked protests and counter-protests resulting in episodes of violence, civil unrest, and multiple arrests. The order came at the request of Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell, Scott said, and will open up state and other law-enforcement resources to assist the sheriffs office in the event of violence on campus or in the city. It will also allow the governor to access emergency funding. We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority, said Scott in a statement. I have been in constant contact with Sheriff Darnell who has requested this Executive Order to ensure that county and local law enforcement have every needed resource. This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe. Spencer is set to speak at the Gainesville campus on Thursday, Oct. 19. He told the Associated Press that the emergency declaration was flattering but most likely overkill. Im not a hurricane or an invading army, at least not literally, he said via telephone on Monday, Oct. 16. The university initially denied Spencers request to rent a space on campus, but eventually acquiesced when Spencers attorney threatened the school with a lawsuit. As a public educational institution, UF may not ban hate speech, the school said. We must balance our aspirations and values against our legal obligations to protect the First Amendment rights of alleven those with views and values contrary to UFs fundamental principles. It warned students that any protesters who become violent will be arrested and prosecuted, and that weapons, masks, backpacks, and a long list of other things will be banned during the event. Spencers speech has no sponsorship from either the school nor any group on campus, the university said, and the National Policy Institute, a white nationalist think tank that Spencer is the president of, is paying $10,500 to rent the facility and for security within it. The state-run school and other agencies have planned to spend up to $500,000 on security on campus and in the city, the school said in a Q&A about the event. This includes costs from the University of Florida Police Department, Gainesville Police Department, Alachua County Sheriffs Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Highway Patrol and other agencies providing first responders. Janine Sikes, the universitys assistant vice president of public affairs, said in a statement that there has been no tangible threat to the schools security and that all actions law enforcement and the school are taking are pre-emptive. She also encouraged everyone to avoid the event. Dont let the University of Florida be defined by Richard Spencer, she said to students in a statement. From NTD.tv North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un and military leaders during a ceremony in Pyongyang, North Korea, on July 16, 2012. (Ed Jones/AFP/GettyImages) Former North Korean Official: Dissent Is Growing A high level North Korean defector shed light on the brutality of Kim Jong Uns regime and its failing economic policies. In his first public appearance in the United States since defecting from North Korea in 2014, former senior North Korean economic official Ri Jong Ho said dissent is growing within the highest ranks of North Koreas leadership. Ri said he and his family defected to South Korea after growing disillusioned with the communist regime. He said that those in North Koreas leadership have been concerned about the purges and violent executions by the Kim regime. At the time, the government said they are not even going to be buried. They shot them into so many pieces that there wasnt much of a body left after the shooting, Ri said at an event hosted by the Asia Society. Thousands of North Korean officials have been killed in recent years. Ri said many of the senior people in the North Korean leadership, who were loyal to former North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il, have been disappointed by the rule of his son, Kim Jong Un. We have to find hope somewhere else, we have to find a future, thats why me and my family decided to defect, he said. At the same time, Kim Jong Uns access to hard foreign currency has been extremely limited under new international sanctions. Kim relies on the money to keep those in senior ranks pleased. As part of his work in North Korea, Ri was deployed to China as the head of the Korea Daehung Trading Corporation, which is managed by the so-called Office 39, a clandestine organization under the direct control of the Kim family. This has given Ri a unique look into the inner workings of the North Korean economy. I was in the center stage in North Korea for 30 years and I can see the North Korean economy in the palm of my hand, Ri said. According to Ri, North Koreas economy had already crumbled in the 1990s and has gone from bad to worse. The steel and metal factories have stopped, they are not in operation. All of the products that require steel have also stopped, Ri said. There is currently also hardly any power generation in North Korea, leaving the factories without electricity and common North Korean households struggling to survive. The North Korean leadership should not put their money in nuclear testing or missiles but instead use the money to develop the economy, Ri said. The people also feel the same, they are desperate for electricity generation, so that they can use it for farming. The situation has been made worse as a result of North Koreas deteriorating relationship with China. North Korea depends on China for as much as 90 percent of its trade. Under pressure from President Donald Trump, China has stepped up its pressure on North Korea. Last month, China voted in favor of a U.N. Security Council resolution imposing new sanctions on North Korea in response to a sixth underground nuclear test. China also put additional sanctions in place, instructing Chinese banks to stop providing financing to North Korea and ordering North Korean businesses operating China to close down within 120 days. I dont know if North Korea will survive a year [under] sanctions, Ri said. U.S.-backed militias in Syria declared victory over Islamic State in its capital Raqqa on Tuesday, raising flags over the last jihadist footholds after a four-month battle. The fighting was over and the alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias was clearing the citys stadium of mines and any remaining militants, said Rojda Felat, commander of the Raqqa campaign for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). A formal declaration of victory in Raqqa will soon be made, once the city has been cleared of mines and any possible Islamic State sleeper cells, said SDF spokesman Talal Selo. The fall of Raqqa, where Islamic State staged euphoric parades after its string of lightning victories in 2014, is a potent symbol of the jihadist movements collapsing fortunes. Islamic State has lost much of its territory in Syria and Iraq this year, including its most prized possession, Mosul. In Syria, it has been forced back into a strip of the Euphrates valley and surrounding desert. The SDF, backed by a U.S.-led international alliance, has been fighting since June to take the city which Islamic State used to plan attacks abroad. A Reuters witness said militia fighters celebrated in the streets, chanting slogans from their vehicles. The fighters and commanders clasped their arms round each other, smiling, in a battle-scarred landscape of rubble and ruined buildings around the main square. The flags in the stadium and others waved in the city streets were of the SDF, its strongest militia the Kurdish YPG, and the YPGs female counterpart, the YPJ. Fighters hauled down the black flag of Islamic State, the last still flying over the city, from the National Hospital near the stadium. We do still know there are still IEDs and booby traps in and amongst the areas that ISIS once held, so the SDF will continue to clear deliberately through areas, said Colonel Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the coalition. TRAPPED BY FIGHTING Fatima Hussein, a 58-year-old woman, sitting on a pavement smoking a cigarette said she had emerged from her house after being trapped for months by the fighting. Islamic State had killed her son for helping civilians leave the city, she said. The fight for Raqqa has shattered much of the city. Houses, apartment blocks and public buildings were flattened by air strikes or holed by shellfire. On Tuesday the international charity Save the Children said many of the 270,000 people who fled the fighting would likely be stuck in aid camps for months or years. Children who fled were haunted by nightmares from the violence they witnessed, including Islamic State beheadings and coalition airstrikes, it said. The SDF has said that after the Raqqa battle ends, it would hand over control to a civil council set up by its political allies. It echoes the pattern in other territory the YPG and its allies have taken across northern Syria. Kurdish influence in the future of the mainly Arab city has been a sensitive issue for some activists from Raqqa and for Turkey. Ankara views the YPG militia as an extension of the PKK that has waged an insurgency on Turkish soil for three decades. The SDF took the National Hospital after fierce fighting overnight and early on Tuesday, said spokesman Mostafa Bali. During these clashes, the National Hospital was liberated and cleared from the Daesh mercenaries, and 22 of these foreign mercenaries were killed there, said Bali, using the Arabic acronym for Islamic State. An SDF field commander who gave his name as Ager Ozalp said three militiamen had been killed on Monday by mines that have become an Islamic State trademark in its urban battles. Another field commander, who gave his name as Abjal al-Syriani, said SDF fighters had found burned weapons and documents in the stadium. The stadium and hospital became the last major positions held by Islamic State after some of its fighters quit, leaving only foreign jihadists to mount a last stand. The SDF has been supported by a U.S.-led international coalition with air strikes and special forces on the ground since it started the battle for Raqqa city in early June. The final SDF assault began on Sunday after a group of Syrian jihadists evacuated the city under a deal with tribal elders, leaving only a hardcore of up to 300 fighters to defend the last positions. PASSPORTS AND MONEY Raqqa was the first big city Islamic State captured in early 2014, before its rapid series of victories in Iraq and Syria brought millions of people under the rule of its self-declared caliphate, which passed laws and issued passports and money. It used the city as a planning and operations centre for its warfare in the Middle East and its string of attacks overseas, and for a time imprisoned Western hostages there before killing them in slickly produced films distributed online. The SDF advance since Sunday also brought it control over the central city public square, where Islamic State once displayed the severed heads of its enemies, and which became one of its last lines of defence as the battle progressed. The offensive has pushed Islamic State from most of northern Syria, while a rival offensive by the Syrian army, backed by Russia, Iran and Shiite militias, has driven the jihadists from the central desert. On Tuesday, a military media unit run by Lebanons Hezbollah said the Syrian army, which Hezbollah fights with, had pushed into the last Islamic State districts of Deir al-Zor city. The only populated areas the jihadist group still controls in Syria are the towns and villages downstream of Deir al-Zor city along the Euphrates valley. They are areas that for the past three years Islamic State ran from Raqqa. Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia poses outside the Libyan Embassy in Valletta April 6, 2011. Investigative journalist Caruana Galizia was killed in a car bomb explosion killing her in Bidnija, Malta, in Oct. 16, 2017. Picture taken April 6, 2011. (REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi) Journalist Leading Charges of Govt Corruption Killed in Car Bomb in Malta A Maltese investigative journalist who alleged Maltas Prime Minister and top associates were using Panamanian companies to launder money died in a car bomb explosion on Monday, Oct. 16. Now her son, also an investigative journalist, is calling out those same figures and others, blaming a web of corruption and impunity for his mothers violent death. Daphne Caruana Galizia had been dribbling evidence that top figures in the Maltese government were using Panamanian companies to launder money for years. Her allegations became hard facts when the release of the Panama papers put names to the companies. Her death is sending shockwaves throughout the country and raising questions about the state of the government. Her son, who described finding parts of his mothers body around the destroyed car in a Facebook post, is leveling charges against key public figures his mother had targeted or who he says should have prevented her murder. My mother was assassinated because she stood between the rule of law and those who sought to violate it, like many strong journalists, wrote Matthew Caruana Galizia, a software engineer who now works at the The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. But she was also targeted because she was the only person doing so. This is what happens when the institutions of the state are incapacitated: the last person left standing is often a journalist. Which makes her the first person left dead. A left-leaning reporter, his mothers work varied from blog posts poking fun at the appearance of politicians to investigative work that uncovered the secretive business dealings of leading political figures. Depending on which side of the political debate a person falls on, her work was either a hatchet job meant to bolster the political opposition, or a shocking revelation of political corruption at the very highest levels. Galizia, 53, was nicknamed a one-woman WikiLeaks. Her last entry on her hugely popular blog came less than an hour before her death and finished with the line: There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate. Her allegations focused on secret Panamanian companies owned by leading figures, including Prime Minister Joseph Muscats wife, his chief of staff Keith Schembri, and tourism minister Konrad Mizzi. Galizia has faced several libel suits for her reporting, but was a hero to many Maltese worried that corruption was undermining the rule of law in their country. When the Panama papers confirmed that Schembri and Mizzi did indeed own off shore companies, EU officials launched an investigation into whether Malta was running afoul of the EUs rule of law. While Muscat denounced the journalists killing on Monday, calling it a barbaric attack on press freedom, and pledging I will not rest until I see justice done in this case, Galizias son said the killing revealed Malta is in a state of crisis. This was no ordinary murder and it was not tragic. Tragic is someone being run over by a bus. When there is blood and fire all around you, thats war. We are a people at war against the state and organised crime, which have become indistinguishable, he wrote on Facebook. Describing Malta as a mafia state where you will be blown to pieces for exercising your basic freedoms he says a culture of impunity is flourishing in Malta. It is of little comfort for the Prime Minister of this country to say that he will not rest until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a government that encouraged that same impunity. Malta has invited the United States FBI to send a team of experts to help local police investigate. Dutch investigators are already looking into the crime. Mom Who Lost Limbs After Childbirth, Sues Hospital for Negligence A mom from Canada gave birth to her first child, only to begin a battle for her life. Lindsey Hubley, was a previously healthy woman before she delivered baby Myles on March 2, this year in Halifax, with her fiance Mike Sampson, CBS News reported. But just four days later, Hubley became extremely ill and was rushed to the hospital. The new mom was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis, more widely known as flesh-eating bacteria as doctors said her body was going into severe septic shock, according to a GoFundMe page set up by her family. After surgery, doctors put her in an induced coma in the intensive care unit where she began suffering multiple organ failures. To keep Hubley alive, doctors performed multiple surgeries, including amputations of both arms and legs below the knee, according to the GoFundMe page. The page asked for $60,000 to help with medical costs, but as of writing on Tue, Oct. 17 they had received over $96,000. But now the mom is taking legal action against the IWK Health Centre and several Halifax-area doctors after claiming that the doctors were negligent in their care during her childbirth and postoperative care. What Lindsey and her family have gone through over these past seven months is incomprehensible, her attorney, Raymond Wagner, said in a press release. She is truly a survivor, and remarkably has maintained a positive and determined attitude along her long road to recovery, all while juggling the struggles, and joys, of a newborn. Sampson said his Hubley has still managed to remain upbeat, despite the situation. Myles and I make our way to the hospital pretty much every day to see mama, he told CTV News. Our lives have been turned upside down. Hubley is now a quadruple amputee and has been forced to spend the first seven months of her sons life in the hospital, CTV News reported. Wagner later told CTV that part of the placenta was not removed at birth and that Hubley had a tear that required stitches, which could have contributed to the infection and health issues that followed. In addition, it was alleged that doctors did not perform an examination on Hubley when she returned to the hospital complaining about cramps on March 5, the day after being discharged after giving birth. Instead, they diagnosed her with constipation and sent her home, CTV reported. Hubley stated that she made her claim public to help others, If my story can help prevent even one person from going through what I have, and improve gaps in health care, then publicly discussing what happened to me will be worth it. As stated on heir GoFundMepage, Hubley is now luckily considered critically stable as she continues her battle in the intensive care unit. She has a long journey ahead of her that will include more surgeries, months of rehabilitation, and adjusting to a new way of life for her, Mike, and sweet Myles they wrote. We are thankful every day that Lindsey is still here and we look forward to the day she can head home to be with both her boys. From NTD.tv North Korean leader Kim Jong Un watches the launch of a Hwasong-12 missile in this undated photo released by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Sept. 16, 2017. (KCNA via Reuters/File Photo) North Korea Warns That Nuclear War May Break out at Any Moment TOKYO/UNITED NATIONSThe United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks, Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail, he said. Tension has soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The situation on the Korean peninsula where the attention of the whole world is focused has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment, North Koreas Deputy U.N. Ambassador Kim In Ryong told a U.N. General Assembly committee on Monday. As long as one does not take part in the U.S. military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country, according to Kims prepared remarks for the discussion on nuclear weapons. Kim did not read that section out loud. South Korea and the United States began week-long joint Navy drills in the waters around the Korean peninsula on Monday, involving about 40 ships from both militaries, including the nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, the Souths defense ministry said. The Norths state media said on Tuesday the allies desperate efforts to block the advance of the country would only vindicate that it should continue its nuclear program to the last. The DPRK has been fully ready for all the U.S. is resorting to, including sanctions, pressure and military option, as it has the tremendous nuclear force for self-defense and irresistible strength of self-reliance and self-development, the official KCNA news agency said in a commentary. The DPRK stands for North Koreas official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Asked about the North Korean envoys warning of nuclear war, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said it would not be in anyones interest. The U.N. Security Council has unanimously ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs since 2006. The most recent U.N. sanctions banned exports of coal, iron ore and seafood, aimed at cutting off a third of the Norths total annual exports of $3 billion. Experts say North Korea has been scrambling to find alternative sources of hard currency to keep its economy afloat and advance its weapons program. North Koreas Lazarus hacking group was probably responsible for a recent cyber heist in Taiwan, cyber-security firm BAE Systems Plc said on Monday. Taiwans Central News Agency said last week that hackers had sought to steal some $60 million from the Far Eastern Bank, but it had recovered all but $500,000. BAE Systems and other cyber firms have previously linked Lazarus to last years $81-million cyber heist at Bangladeshs central bank. North Korea has also recently allowed citizens as young as 12 to bet on horse races for the first time, state news agency KCNA reported. Punters had previously risked three years hard labor for gambling in the reclusive and tightly controlled state, but the growing importance of private markets meant more people had money to spend on leisure, experts said. You may have ridiculed Kim Jong Un for constructing lavish facilities while struggling to feed the people, but those things are to make foreign currency, not from foreigners, but from the well-off inside North Korea, because you have to pay in U.S. dollars or Chinese renminbi there, said Lee Sang-keun, a researcher at the Institute of Unification Studies of Ewha Womans University in Seoul. Many North Koreans make lots of money from the market, dine at hamburger restaurants and go shopping, all of which help fatten regime coffers. Thats part of the reason why the regime still has some financial latitude, despite international sanctions. By Tim Kelly and Michelle Nichols North Korean Official Threatens US East Coast With ICBM North Korea has once again warned of nuclear war, but it added a new wrinkle in its threats by saying it intends to make a missile capable of hitting the U.S. East Coast. On Monday, Oct. 16, North Koreas Deputy U.N. Ambassador Kim In Ryong warned that the situation on the Korean Peninsula, which includes South Korea, has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment, reported The Associated Press. He claimed that the isolated, communist country is the only one in the world under such an extreme and direct nuclear threat, adding that it has the right to possess nuclear weapons of its own. Also on Monday, a North Korean official, who was not named, said Pyongyang is committed to developing an ICBM, or intercontinental ballistic missile, thats capable of hitting the East Coast, CNN reported. The official added that North Korea isnt ruling out diplomatic relations with the United States. But, the official said, Before we can engage in diplomacy with the Trump administration, we want to send a clear message that the DPRK has a reliable defensive and offensive capability to counter any aggression from the United States. According to AP, Kim In Ryong added that the whole U.S. mainland is within our firing range and if the U.S. dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe. Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the U.S. is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiating table under any circumstances, Kim said. It comes after U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that diplomatic efforts will continue until the first bomb drops, without elaborating. President Donald Trump has made it clear to me to continue my diplomatic efforts, Tillerson said. Tillersons comments Sunday come amid soaring tensions between the United States and North Korea following a series of weapons tests by Pyongyang and a war of words between the two countries leaders, Reuters reported. The president, earlier this month, said the United States will do what we must do to prevent more threats from Pyongyang, which has indicated that it would attack the American territory of Guam. We cannot allow this dictatorship to threaten our nation or our allies with unimaginable loss of life, he reportedly said during a meeting with high-ranking military officers. We will do what we must do to prevent that from happening and it will be done if necessary, believe me. Reuters contributed to this report. British Finance Minister Philip Hammond shakes hands with the Secretary-General of the OECD Angel Gurria, during an OECD press conference at the Treasury in London, England, on Oct. 17, 2017. (Matt Dunham - WPA Pool/Getty Images) OECD Report: Brexit Reversal Would Be Positive for UK Economy The UK got a controversial financial report card on Monday from an organisation that represents many of the worlds richest countries. Between praise of the countrys employment rate, concerns about productivity, and analysis of the impact of devalued currency, it was dominated by two words: Brexit and uncertainty. Buried in the biennial report was a note which suggested that were the British government to reverse Brexit, the positive impact on growth would be significant, prompting the Treasury to reiterate that a second referendum was not on the cards. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) announced the findings of its annual survey on the British economy on Oct. 17. The United Kingdom is facing challenging times, with Brexit creating serious economic uncertainties that could stifle growth for years to come, OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurria said, according to the OECD website. Maintaining the closest economic relationship with the European Union will be absolutely key, for the trade of goods and services as well as the movement of labour. Chancellor Philip Hammond, who attended the publication of the report in London, said that the report highlighted the need for a post-Brexit transitional arrangement with the European Union. There is great potential to exploit the underlying strengths of the UK economy, and boosting productivity is the way to turn those strengths into real wage growth and living standards, he said after the event, according to the Financial Times. The report notes that the UKs labor market has performed remarkably well despite a slowdown, with unemployment lower and the employment rate the highest ever since the financial crash. Real wages, however, are on a downward trend, said Gurria, noting that British productivity also lags behind other countries in Europe. The report also says that a disorderly exit from the EU single market and customs union in 2019 would hurt trading relationships and reduce long-term growth. With talk of reversing Brexit already in the air, fanning hopes and fears in critics and supporters of Brexit, the OECD alluded to the benefits of holding a second referendum, and of the reversal of Brexit. In case Brexit gets reversed by political decision (change of majority, new referendum, etc.), the positive impact on growth would be significant. The Treasury said in a statement that we are leaving the EU, and there will not be a second referendum, reported The Guardian. At the Oct. 17 launch of the report, Hammond said, [By] delivering a time-limited transition period, avoiding a disruptive cliff-edge exit from the EU, we can provide greater certainty for businesses up and down the UK, and across the European Union. The report said that a breakdown in EUUK negotiations would trigger an adverse reaction from financial markets, pushing the exchange rate to new lows and leading to sovereign rating downgrades. Business investment would seize up, and heightened price pressures would choke off private consumption. The report recommends that the UK adopt simple criteria for dealing with EU citizens living and/or working in the UK. Founded in 1961, the OECD is a group of 35 of the wealthiest countries in the world. However, its roots go back to the Organisation for European Economic Cooperation, which was set up in 1948 to operate the U.S.-led Marshall Plan to patch war-ravaged Europe back together. The OECD includes non-European countries and was founded with the aim of fostering economic interdependence among members. Philippine Marines, marching in formation alongside armoured personnel carriers, head to the frontline past damaged buildings in the Mapandi area of Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao on Aug. 30 as fighting between government troops and pro-ISIS state terrorists entered its 100th day. The terrorists, who fly the black flag of the ISIS, have occupied parts of Marawi for almost five months, defying airstrikes and artillery barrages, with parts of the city of 200,000 people left in ruins, leaving 45 civilians, 617 militants, and 133 soldiers killed in the ongoing conflict. (FERDINANDH CABRERA/AFP/Getty Images) Philippine President Declares Marawi City Liberated From Terrorists MANILAPhilippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared Marawi City liberated from pro-ISIS terrorists on Tuesday. The terrorists had held the heart of the city for 148 days, media and a government minister said. A military spokesman said 20-30 rebels were still fighting it out and were holding about 20 hostages. Duterte was visiting Marawi, a day after two leaders of the rebel alliance were killed. Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from the terrorist influence that marks the beginning of rehabilitation of the city, Duterte said in a statement to the soldiers in the city. Isnilon Hapilon, ISISs emir in Southeast Asia, and Omarkhayam Maute, one of two Khalifas at the helm of the Dawla Islamiya terrorist alliance, were killed in a targeted operation on Oct 16 and their bodies had been recovered and identified, authorities said. The 148-day occupation by ISIS terrorists marked the countrys biggest internal security crisis in years. Experts say the government has for years underestimated the extent to which extremism has taken root in impoverished and underdeveloped Muslim areas of the Catholic-majority Philippines. During an earlier interview aired on Phillipines state-run PTV4 Oct. 13, Duterte said, We tried our very best to end this war peacefully. We never had the intention to destroy the holy shrines of the Islam Its easy to destroy the mosques, just drop a hundred bombs and its done [but] you know, we have to be very careful about the sensitivity of the people, he added. Military spokesman Restituto Padilla said that although the fight was not completely over, the remaining terrorists were stragglers who no longer posed a threat. There is no way that they can get out anymore, there is no way for anyone to get in, Padilla told news channel ANC. So choking them to death at this point will be very key for our troops to do since the area is very much contained and very much controlled. Padilla said Malaysian operative Mahmud Ahmad had been in Marawi City since the start of the fight and the military believed he was still there. The authorities could not be completely certain, however, but saw him as no threat. Dr. Mahmud is an academic, hes not a fighter, Padilla said. We dont feel he is a problem. Some security experts say Mahmud, 39, a skilled recruiter and fundraiser who trained at an al Qaeda camp in Afghanistan, is a candidate to replace Hapilon as ISISs point-man in Southeast Asia. The Parachinar Federally Administered Tribal Area is located in Northwestern Pakistan near the Afghanistan border. (Google Maps screenshot by The Epoch Times) Suspected US Drone Strike Kills Five on Pakistan-Afghanistan Frontier PARACHINAR/PESHAWAR, PakistanA suspected U.S. drone strike killed five people on the mountainous Pakistan-Afghanistan border, government and militant sources said on Tuesday, days after a Canadian-American couple held hostage by the Taliban were freed from the same area. Taliban sources said at least five members of the Pakistan-based Haqqani militants, allied to the Taliban, were killed in a Oct 16 strike and eight were wounded. On Oct 13, U.S. drones were seen hovering near the area in northwestern Pakistan where American Caitlan Coleman, her Canadian husband, Joshua Boyle, and their three children, all born in captivity, were freed. Coleman and Boyle were held by the Haqqani network after being kidnapped while backpacking in Afghanistan in 2012. Their rescue marked a rare positive note in often-fraught U.S.-Pakistan relations. Baseer Khan Wazir, the most senior administrator in Kurram Agency that is part of Pakistans restive Federally Administered Tribal Areas, said four unmanned drones fired six missiles on a Taliban hideout close to the border on Monday but could not confirm on which side. There were some mud-built houses which were being used by the mujahideen (Afghan Taliban fighters), said a member of the Afghan Taliban, asking not to be identified. The drones fired six missiles and targeted two, three different compounds. He said no prominent militants were in the area, but another Taliban source said two commanders were killed in the attack. Witnesses said they heard the drones and then saw plumes of smoke. There are always drones hovering over this border area but this was the first time four drones were noticed hovering at the same time, said Kurram resident Gulab Sher. If confirmed to be inside Pakistan, the air strike would be the fourth drone attack on Pakistans side of the border since U.S. President Donald Trump took office in January. Teen Who Was Killed While Walking to Virginia Mosque Was Assaulted: Reports A Virginia teen who was killed as she was heading to her mosque was also assaulted, an indictment said, CBS News reported. The suspect, Darwin Martinez-Torres, 22, of Sterling, Virginia, is believed to be an illegal immigrant. In June, when he was arrested, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement placed a detainer on him, saying he was in the United States illegally, Fox5 DC reported. Martinez-Torres is accused of attacking 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen with a bat and killing her in June. But according to a Tuesday report from CBS News, he was indicted on murder and rape charges, meaning that prosecutors can pursue a death-penalty case against Martinez-Torres. Virginia law allows prosecutors to pursue a death-penalty case if certain terms are met, including murder in the commission of a rape and murder during an abduction with intent to defile, CBS noted. Suspect in death of Muslim teen Nabra Hassanen indicted on capital murder, rape charges https://t.co/HSqQ3l4xIV Imraan Siddiqi (@imraansiddiqi) October 16, 2017 The violent incident took place when Nabra and friends were walking near the All Dulles Area Muslim Society in Sterling, Virginia. Nabras friends got into an argument with Martinez-Torres, who was driving a car. Hes accused of chasing the group and abducting Nabra before her body was discovered in a pond in Loudoun County, Fox5 reported. Nabras family started yelling at Martinez-Torres in court on Friday, reports said. The mother of the girl is reported to have thrown a shoe at him. Murder, rape indictment against suspect in slaying of 17-yr-old Nabra Hassanen in Northern Virginia @MattBarakathttps://t.co/wLDqbVibNR Rachel Zoll (@rzollAP) October 16, 2017 Supporters of Nabra Hassanen rally outside Fairfax County courthouse: "Justice for Nabra!" pic.twitter.com/LHy8WXtyub justin jouvenal (@jjouvenal) October 13, 2017 Its hard. I hope this not happening to anybody, said Mohmod Hassanen, her father, according to WUSA9-TV. Fairfax County Police spokeswoman Julie Parker released a statement Monday on the indictment. We shared information about this tragic case from the very beginning. We provided Mr. Morroghs office a complete and thorough investigation. Our officers brought this suspect into custody and take comfort in knowing hes behind bars. We have full confidence the Commonwealths attorney will ensure justice is served for Nabra, her family and friends, and our entire community, Parker said, according to WUSA9. A court hearing for Thursday is set for Martinez-Torres, who was a construction worker and has a 4-year-old child. In June, ICE issued a statement. On June 19, ICE lodged a detainer on Darwin Martinez Torres, a citizen and national of El Salvador, with the Adult Detention Center in Fairfax, Virginia. ICE lodges detainers on aliens who have been arrested on local criminal charges when the agency has probable cause to believe an alien is removable from the United States. Mr. Martinez Torres has no prior encounters with ICE, an ICE representative told Fox News. The sky turns red over buildings in Canary Wharf as dust from the Sahara carried by storm Ophelia filters sunlight over London, Oct. 16, 2017. (Tom Jacobs/Reuters) The Strange Orange Sun Could Return to the UK The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia caused an eerie orange sky and a red hue around the sun on Monday, Oct. 16. The bizarre red sun was caused by hurricane winds carrying dust particles from wildfires across Iberia and Saharan dust from Africa, 10,000 feet into the atmosphere. A representative from the Met Office said the glowing sun might return to some southern parts of the UK, but this time, its likely to be caused by dust blown over from wildfires in Spain and Portugal. Its possible, we have detected some particles in the atmosphere, said the representative. Whether it is quite as strong is uncertain, she said, but those in the south of England are more likely to see a red-ish or orange hue around the sun. Fly me to the moon. Oh well, a red sun will do. Glowing a little softer today and brighter skies #Redsun #OpheliaStorm #london #nofilter pic.twitter.com/TTt4XNzlyV Catherine (@_catgee) October 17, 2017 Social media has been buzzing with images of skies with a sepia tintwith no filter. We appear to be living on Krypton#redsun pic.twitter.com/HBd53O3zyj Gareth Jones (@GarethJonesTV) October 17, 2017 Londons Science Museum reassured twitter users that its not the apocalypse. It's not the apocalypse! Dust in the atmosphere is causing blue light to be scattered, making the sky appear red https://t.co/MpKyg9lYdP pic.twitter.com/XvMBrIXXIG Science Museum (@sciencemuseum) October 16, 2017 The spokeswoman added that the particles that caused the strange phenomenon do not pose a danger to healththe air quality remains good because the particles are so high up in the atmosphere. While many Britons saw the glowing red sun from storm Ophelia, those in Ireland experienced the destructive nature of the storm. From an eerie light to high winds and rough seas, ex #Ophelia brought a memorable day of weather on the 30th anniversary of the #GreatStorm pic.twitter.com/gJdcLiZKQ4 Met Office (@metoffice) October 16, 2017 An amber weather warning was issued covering Northern Ireland, north and west Wales, and the extreme southwest of Scotland between 12:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. local time on Monday, Oct. 16. The Irish Meteorological Service advised people to stay indoors on Monday, and were asked to remove any loose items, like patio furniture or rubbish bins, for fear that they could turn into wind missiles. All schools and colleges were closed and thousands were left without power. The destructive winds, that were as fast as 191 kilometers (118 mph) per hour, caused three deaths in the country. A woman and a man died in separate incidents when trees fell on their cars, while a second man died in an incident involving a chainsaw when he was clearing a fallen tree. Drapes billow out of broken windows at the Mandalay Bay resort and casino on the Las Vegas Strip, following a deadly shooting at a music festival in Las Vegas on Monday, Oct. 2, 2017. (AP Photo/John Locher, File) Vegas Hero Guard Headed to Urgent-Care Clinic Before Vanishing The Mandalay Bay security guard who abruptly canceled five interviews last week was reportedly heading to an urgent-care clinic before he vanished, according to his union president, Fox News reports. Jesus Campos was shot in the leg by Las Vegas gunman Stephen Paddock on Oct. 1 and hailed as a hero. He was set to break his silence in several television interviews on Thursday, Oct. 12, last week, including one with Sean Hannity on Fox News. The president of the Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America (SPFPA), David Hickey, says that he received a text the night before the interviews which said that Campos was headed to a UMC Quick Care center. It is unclear who sent that text or where it came from. None of the eight Quick Care locations in the Las Vegas area heard from Campos that night, according to a spokesperson for the company. Fox requested a comment from SPFPA several times, but none were returned as of Monday. Hickey was meeting with MGM officials on Thursday afternoon shortly before Campos was scheduled to go on the air. When Hickey came out of the meeting, Campos was nowhere to be found. For the past four days hes been preparing, Hickey told Fox 5 Vegas. We had a meeting with MGM officials, and after that meeting was over, we talked about the interviews, we went to a private area, and when we came out, Mr. Campos was gone. According to Hickey, Campos wanted to go on the air to tell his side of the story and move on from the Las Vegas massacre investigation. According to the latest police timeline, Campos was shot shortly before Paddock pointed a gun from the 32nd-floor window at the crowd attending the Route 91 Harvest music festival and fired, killing 58 people and injuring hundreds. The police timeline has changed several times over the past two weeks and Campos is at the center of the changes. In the initial timeline, police claimed that Campos drew fire from Paddock well after the gunman had started to fire on the crowd, effectively stopping the shooting. It was this timeline that led to Campos being hailed a hero. Campos was last photographed receiving an award from his union at a high-end steakhouse on Oct. 10. He is seen wearing a skin-colored bandage on his right temple. In all three of the staged photos, Campos does not appear to smile. The SPFPA Hero Award was given to Campos for his bravery, but the timeline shifted since he received it, raising questions on whether hotel security and police could have stopped the shooter sooner. Right now Im just concerned where my member is, and what his condition is. Its highly unusual, Hickey said Friday. Im hoping everything is OK with him and Im sure MGM or the union will let (media) know when we hear something, he said. From NTD.tv North Koreans listen to a television broadcast of a statement by communist dictator Kim Jong Un, in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Sept. 22, 2017. (ED JONES/AFP/Getty Images) Trumps North Korea Strategy The president is combining economic, diplomatic, and military efforts to push North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program President Donald Trump is running an unprecedented pressure campaign against North Korea, in an attempt to avoid war and prevent the regime from obtaining nuclear weapons. While the isolated state does not yet have the ability to successfully launch a nuclear warhead fitted on a ballistic missile, experts believe its just a matter of time. During this crucial window of time, Trump is going all out to pressure North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program through economic, diplomatic, and military means. The approach is largely two-fold. On one hand, Trump has instructed his secretary of state and other senior cabinet officials to pursue diplomatic means while also increasing economic pressure through sanctions. On the other hand, Trump is building up the U.S. military and drawing up plans for a military conflict should diplomatic efforts fail. I think he does want to be clear with Kim Jong Un, that regime in North Korea, that he has military preparations ready to go, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson told CNN on Oct. 15. But be clear, the president has also made clear to me that he wants this solved diplomatically. He is not seeking to go to war, Tillerson said. He said that the diplomatic efforts will continue until the first bomb drops. Be Ready Trumps message of military might has been plenty clear. Just last week, two U.S. nuclear-powered submarines, each equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles, docked in South Korea. While it is not uncommon for submarines to operate in the region, it is rare for their locations to be disclosed, which was likely intended to send a message to Kim Jong Un. The Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Michigan (SSGN 727) pulls into the pier of South Koreas Busan Naval Base as part of a routine port visit on Oct. 13, 2017. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman William Carlisle) Since coming to office, Trump has significantly increased military spending. He said last week that spending will top $800 billion this year, with a significant portion to be spent on new equipment such as fighter jets and warships. Together with his most senior military officials, including Defense Secretary Gen. Jim Mattis and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joseph Dunford, Trump has drawn up detailed scenarios for a military conflict with North Korea. Both Trump and Mattis have alluded to the most drastic military option of all: the complete destruction of North Korea. Last month, speaking before the U.N. General Assembly, Trump said that the United States could totally destroy North Korea if the United States or its allies were forced to defend themselves. Mattis made similar comments earlier, saying the United States does not seek to attack North Korea, but has many options for the total annihilation of North Korea if needed. Secretary of Defense Gen. Jim Mattis (L) makes a statement outside the West Wing of the White House in response to North Koreas latest nuclear testing, as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joseph Dunford listens, in Washington, Sept. 3, 2017. (REUTERS/Mike Theiler) At the annual meeting of the Association of the U.S. Army last week, Mattis said that while U.S. efforts regarding North Korea are currently diplomatically led, the Army should be ready to go to war if needed. The United States has also been bolstering the missile defense systems of its allies, Japan and South Korea. It has deployed several THAAD missile defense systems to South Korea, and is selling advanced air-to-air missiles to Japan. U.S. forces have also conducted multiple military drills with allies in the region in recent months. This week, the Navy is conducting major exercises with South Korea. On Oct. 10, the U.S. Air Force flew two bombers over the Korean Peninsula during a 12-hour mission, accompanied by Japanese and South Korean fighter jets. A B-1B long-range strategic bomber in a file photo. (Courtesy USAF/Getty Images) International Pressure Along with the military buildup, the Trump administration has made great efforts to pressure North Korea into complying with international demands to abolish its nuclear program. Most significantly, Trump has been able to gain broad international support against the rogue regime. We now have the most comprehensive sanctions in place that have ever been put in place, to strangle the North Korean regimes economic revenue streams, Tillerson said. The Trump administration has also been able to get North Koreas closest ally, China, on its side. We have China now joining us in putting pressure on North Korea in ways that has never been achieved before, and I attribute a lot of that to the very strong relationship President Trump has with President Xi, Tillerson said. U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping walk together at the Mar-a-Lago estate in West Palm Beach, Fla., on April 7, 2017. (JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images) Tillerson said that since coming to office, Trump has met with Xi several times in person and has frequent phone contact with him. Trump had called on Chinaboth behind closed doors and in publicto help the United States put pressure on North Korea. In August, China announced it was halting imports of coal, iron, and lead from North Korea. In September, after North Korea conducted a sixth underground nuclear test, the Chinese regime voted in favor of new sanctions. Chinas central bank has also instructed other banks to stop providing financial services to North Korea and has ordered North Korean businesses operating in China to close. For years, China has been North Koreas lifeline. This close relationship between the two communist regimes was established by former Chinese Communist Party leader Jiang Zemin. But while Jiang has been officially out of power since 2003, he has still played a major role in influencing Chinas domestic and international policies from behind the scenes through loyalists in key government positions. These policies include the persecution ordered by Jiang of the spiritual discipline Falun Gong, which continues to this day despite Jiang being out of power. Chinas new stance on North Korea means that Xi is succeeding in consolidating power and reducing the once-ubiquitous influence of Jiang. Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany, July 7, 2017. (Sputnik on/Mikhail Klimentyev/Kremlin via REUTERS) Russia has also agreed to step up pressure on North Korea. On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree enacting U.N. Security Council sanctions passed last month. The sanctions specifically target the supply of natural gas and oil to North Korea. It also bans all textile exports from North Korea. Trump has said that the situation would have been a lot easier to take care of 25, 10, or even five years ago. He has pointed to the fact that a deal reached by then-President Bill Clinton in 1994in which the North Korean regime was provided with financial aid and two light-water nuclear reactors in exchange for an end to its nuclear weapons programwas later violated. A Cautionary Example When speaking about Iran and its nuclear weapons program last week, Trump pointed to North Korea as an example of a situation that becomes increasingly dangerous if not addressed. The new Iranian medium-range missile Khorramshahr is displayed during an annual military parade in Tehran on Sept. 22, 2017. (STR/AFP/Getty Images) The threat of Iran having a nuclear weapon that could reach the United States is not as urgent as that of North Korea, but the Islamic regime is poised, under the agreement signed under President Barack Obama in 2015, to have a nuclear weapon by 2026. At that point, key restrictions on Irans nuclear program will be lifted, allowing the regime to install thousands of advanced uranium centrifuges capable of producing a nuclear bomb within six months. Trump announced on Oct. 13 that he will not recertify the Iranian nuclear deal before Congress. He also said that his administration will try to renegotiate or pass an additional agreement to address key weaknesses in the deal. The main weaknesses include the expiration date on certain restrictions and the fact that Irans ballistic missile program is not part of the nuclear agreement. 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. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) under the Leadership Team of the Directorate of State (DOS) are appalled by Chief John Nnia Nwodos inverted understanding of the quest for the restoration of the nation of Biafra. He exhibited this lack of understanding during an interview at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) office in London. Chief Nwodo was a two-time minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and a lawyer who graduated from Nigerias premier university (University of Ibadan) where he rose to the level of student union president and was noted for being articulate and eloquent. Furthermore, Chief Nnia Nwodo is the current President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo which is a voluntary Igbo-centric (not Biafra-centric) organization that was founded in 1976 mainly to unwittingly replace the verile, much-respected, and highly result-oriented Igbo Union. Unlike the other two well-organized and strategically focused regional organizations in the molds of Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC: http://ooduapeoplescongress.org/) and Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF: https://www.arewaonline-ng.com/about%20us.html), Ohanaeze Ndigbo does not have any known website or internet domain name and neither does it have any physical/capital project that is either completed or ongoing under the presidency of Chief Nnia Nwodo. On the 27th of September, 2017, Chief Nnia Nwodo made the following assertions while being interviewed by a BBC journalist: 1. That Biafrans should forget the concept of Biafra at this point in time. 2. That a restructured Nigeria is as good as having a sovereign nation of Biafra. 3. That he does not support a sovereign/independent nation of Biafra. 4. That because he was part of the failed attempt to realize Biafra in the late 1960s, Biafra cannot be realized now. 5. That even if Biafra is realized, it will not be in the long-term interest of Biafrans. 6. That because there is no constitutional provision for Referendum in the fraudulent Nigerian Constitution, Biafra cannot be realized. 7. That going through the Referendum option will take a very long time and, therefore, not worth the effort and time to be spent on it. 8. That even if the United Nations (U.N.) mandates a Referendum, it will be up to Nigeria to accept and domesticate it or to reject it and move on. 9.That when Nigeria eventually accepts and domesticates the U.N. mandate, the Nigerian government will literally break the banks in order to be able to fund the Referendum exercise. The DOS is saddened that Chief Nnia Nwodo, of all people, made the above assertions because it all sounded hogwash and typical of someone who never had a university education, albeit a lawyer of his repute. Perhaps, the first set of questions that Chief Nnia Nwodo should answer is; The Nigerian Constitution you were referring to, how did it come to be? As a lawyer, dont you know the process and steps undertaken in the making of a Constitution? Is the current Nigerian Constitution not a fraudulent document written by Retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar where he brazenly lied that Nigerians agreed to make, enact, and give that Consitution to themselves? Are you not aware that the validity/legality of that Constitution is in dispute and in the Nigerian court since 2007? The second set of questions for Chief Nnia Nwodo is; Even in your acclaimed Nigerian Constitution and as a lawyer, are you not aware that any restructuring must end up with a Constitutional amendment? Have you read Section-9 of that fraudulent Constitution to understand the conditions that must be fulfilled before Constitutional amendment becomes valid and active? Do you ever think that you can achieve any Constitutional amendment that is not favourable to the real owners of Nigeria the Hausa-Fulani? The final question to Chief Nnia Nwodo is; Are you aware that the Eritrea you denigrated during your interview has out-performed Nigeria in all indices? Economically, Eritrea has annual GDP growth rate of 8% since 2011 and is noted as one of the fastest growing economies in the world. As at today, Eritrea has remained a democratic nation, 26 years after independence whereas your own beloved Nigeria couldnt stay up to 6 years before coups and counter-coups began to occur. For your information, Eritrea has a National Carrier called Eritrean Airlines. You may further want to know that Eritrea is less than 10% of Biafras population but has a Human Development Index (HDI) which closely equals that of your beloved Nigeria. Yet, Eritrea does not have oil and gas deposits. The DOS wants to use this opportunity to advice Biafrans and friends of Biafra to disregard the uninformed and grossly biased comments of Chief Nnia Nwodo which he made in order to please the rulers/owners of Nigeria Hausa-Fulani so as not to be arrested or molested by their Gestapo organization called Department of State Security (DSS). In his quiet time, we know that Chief Nnia Nwodo will surely regret his misinforming statements but we caution him not to continue down this road of infamy because Biafrans are keeping records. The DOS would not like Chief Nnia Nwodo to continue on the same path as his infamous and compromised predecessors who would rather please the real owners of Nigeria Hausa-Fulani. The DOS does not want him to behave like the current lame-duck Southeast Governors who will rather throw Biafrans to the wolves as against their Oduduwa and Arewa counterparts that have consistently protected members of OPC and Boko Haram respectively. The DOS wishes to inform the entire world that the restoration of the nation of Biafra is on course and the Lower Niger Independence Movement (LONIM) is the vehicle to deliver Biafrans to the final destination which is their God-given sovereign nation of Biafra, the erroneous and misguided assertions of Chief Nnia Nwodo notwithstanding. We boldly state that the restoration of the nation of Biafra is a divine project whose time has come and is, therefore, unstoppable, unquenchable, irreversible, and irrevocable. Long live IPOB, long live LONIM, and long live the nation of Biafra!!! Signed Barrister Emma Nmezu Dr. Clifford Chukwuemeka Iroanya Spokesperson for IPOB Spokesperson for IPOB Watertown talent teaches basics in creating artisan bread and charcuterie Those interested in exploring their culinary side learned the basics of making fresh artisan bread and a guest-pleasing charcuterie board this weekend. Tuesday, October 17, 2017 The Louisiana Supreme Court recently decided four cases involving entrusted funds that drew four different sanctions. One resulted in disbarment of an attorney who settled a claim without authority and embezzled the proceeds The evidence in the record of this deemed admitted matter supports a finding that respondent neglected a clients settlement and converted client and third-party funds related to that settlement. He also failed to cooperate with the ODC in its investigation. A second case drew a year and a day suspension with all but 60 days stayed. We agree with the hearing committee and the disciplinary board that respondent acted negligently except with respect to his knowing and intentional failure to cooperate with the ODC in its investigations. The record also supports a finding that respondent violated duties owed to his clients and the legal profession, causing potential and actual harm. The baseline sanction for this type of misconduct is suspension. The aggravating and mitigating factors found by the board are supported by the record. There are two dissents. From Judge Crichton I dissent from the majoritys imposition of discipline in this case because I find it to be unduly lenient. Primarily, the underlying conduct warranting this discipline is unacceptable, including respondents failure to communicate with a client, neglect of a legal matter, and mismanagement of his client trust account. To make matters worse, not only did respondent fail to cooperate with two disciplinary investigations, but also he was lateby over two monthsin filing an objection to the disciplinary boards recommendation. With such conduct, I question whether respondent can competently represent clients. Therefore, I would impose a harsher discipline. A third case drew a two-year suspension The record in this deemed admitted matter supports a finding that respondent grossly mishandled his client trust account, resulting in the commingling and conversion of client funds. Based on these facts, respondent has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct as charged. Justice Clark I respectfully dissent for the following reasons. I find the imposition of a twoyear suspension is overly lenient. In my view, respondents actions represent serious misconduct that warrants a three-year suspension, as recommended by the hearing committee. Respondents mismanagement of his trust account amounts to gross negligence that approaches intentional misconduct. That Respondent did not directly benefit from the mismanagement is negated by the finding that he nonetheless acted with a dishonest or selfish motive. Moreover, despite the absence of a formal allegation, it is noted that respondent intentionally failed to comply with the investigation by the ODC. Thus, I believe a three-year suspension is appropriate. Justice Crichton I dissent from the majoritys imposition of discipline in this case and would suspend Respondent from the practice of law for three yearsas recommended by the Hearing Committee and Justice Clarks dissent. See In Re: Michael Louis Martin, 17-B-1288 (Clark, J., dissenting). Without question, Respondent committed serious misconduct by mismanaging his trust account. However, what I strongly believe exacerbates Respondents conduct is his total lack of responsiveness to the disciplinary proceedings. Specifically, Respondent did not respond to the formal charges filed by the Office of Disciplinary Council (ODC), forward his trust account statements to the ODC (as he said he would), object to the Hearing Committees report and recommendation, or object to the Disciplinary Boards report and recommendation. In light of the scant evidence that Respondent cares about his bar license, I believe a harsher, three-year suspension is more appropriate. Finally, the court approved a consent suspension of a year and a day. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2017/10/the-louisiana-supreme-court-recently-decided-four-cases-involving-entrusted-funds-one-resulted-in-disbarment-the-evidence.html Airbus SEs acquisition of a majority stake in Bombardier Inc.s C Series plane threatens to leave Boeing Co. trailing in a looming race to develop a new generation of more advanced short-haul jets. The Trudeau government has promised to build in safeguards to make sure the deal between Bombardier and European rival Airbus doesnt hurt Canadas aerospace industry. Airbus wants to buy a majority stake in Bombardiers CSeries commercial planes, whose future has been in question after U.S. officials proposed a hefty 300 per cent import duty on the jet program. At one level, the deal appears to be neat way of providing Airbus with a smaller narrow-body aircraft, fitting below its own A320-series models and competing with the smallest variants of Boeings 737 workhorse while alleviating pressure on Bombardier from a bitter trade spat with its U.S. rival. At another, the pact gives the European plane maker access to a technologically advanced, fuel-efficient design that could form the basis of its challenge in the highest volume jetliner sector for years to come, saving billions in development costs and putting the squeeze on Boeing, which is only now embarking on plans for a new short-haul model. Read more: European giant Airbus to buy majority stake in Bombardiers CSeries program It makes it tough for Boeing to be cost-competitive in the narrow-body space, said Nicholas Heymann, an analyst at William Blair & Co. in New York, who estimates that piggybacking on the C Series could save Airbus $10 billion (U.S.) in development costs. Airbus and Bombardier hope that by working together, they can skirt the duties by building CSeries planes for U.S. customers in Alabama instead of outside the U.S. That has raised questions about whether the deal will hurt jobs in Quebec, where Bombardier is based, but Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains hopes it will have the opposite effect. The deal still needs federal approval, and Bains promises the Trudeau government will include specific long-term promises from Airbus about keeping jobs in Canada before signing off. But he says he is cautiously optimistic such requirements wont be needed and that the deal will actually create jobs in Canada by helping sell more CSeries planes around the world. The Airbus-Bombardier tie up makes a 737 replacement even more critical for Boeing, which may need to recast the dynamics and timing of new aircraft programs to take account of changed competitive realities, said Ernie Arvai, founding partner of the AirInsight consulting firm. Airbus shares rose as much as 4.2 per cent in Paris, while Bombardiers widely traded Class B stock soared 25 per cent in Toronto. Boeing fell 1.3 per cent in New York. Airbuss move turns the tables on its rival after Boeing appeared to have gained on edge with its plans for a 220- to 270-seat aircraft fitting between the biggest single-aisle planes and the smallest wide-bodies to reopen a market that hasnt been properly served since the U.S. companys 757 ceased production more than a decade ago. Nicknamed the 797, the New Midmarket Airplane, or NMA, is a twin-aisle, oval-shaped jet that is expected to get the formal go-ahead from Boeing in coming months. The model is slated to debut in the mid-2020s. By bringing Bombardiers C Series into the fold, Airbus gains a plane featuring a high proportion of composite materials a first in the narrow-body segment and far more modern design than either the Boeing 737, which in its original form dates from the late 1960s, or Airbuss own A320, which first flew in 1987. That technology could help it challenge the 797 after Airbus seemed powerless to keep up, distracted by the troubled production ramp ups of its newest A350 and A320neo planes, efforts to bring a re-engined A330 to market and the saga of whether to upgrade its slow-selling A380 superjumbo. When announcing the deal, Airbus chief executive officer Tom Enders said its too early to speculate on whether the plane will form the basis for the companys next short-haul offering, while acknowledging that it is likely to take cues from areas such as the Canadian models cockpit design and advanced aeronautics. The accord marks a change of heart by the CEO, who personally vetoed a similar alliance plan two years ago when the future of the C Series was in doubt and Airbus was starting out on the A350 ramp up. Boeings product-development head, Mike Sinnett, said in an interview Tuesday that the NMA will serve a very different market and that C Series sales in its current niche suggest there isnt a lot new in technological terms. He added of the plane that Bombardier has been shopping it for quite a while. Read more: Bombardier tariffs create uncertainty across key Canadian industries Delta CEO says We will not pay those tariffs on Bombardier CSeries order Credit Suisse analyst Robert Spingarn, though, said in a note that a larger CS500 version of the C Series overlapping more directly with Boeing models will most likely be developed to negate the need for Airbus to develop a shrunk variant of the next-generation, clean-sheet A320 replacement. Regardless of the development boost for Airbus, the near-term ramifications for Boeing may be severe, with its Toulouse, France-based rival able to bundle the C Series, which typically seats 108 to 160 passengers, and the larger A320 into a single offer. That would form a formidable lineup in a single-aisle market thats by far the biggest category in commercial aviation. C Series customers said they were thrilled with the Airbus-Bombardier combination. Carsten Spohr, CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, whose Swiss unit was first to operate the C Series, said in Brussels that the deal is good for Bombardier, good for Airbus and good for Lufthansa, while Martin Gauss, his counterpart at Air Baltic, launch customer for the larger CS300 variant, said that to have both of them now as a partner is perfect. Airbus, which following the transaction will own 50.01 per cent of the C Series program without any initial contribution of funds, may also be able to rationalize the bottom end of its own range where the CS300 overlaps with the 140-seat A319 to focus on the bigger and more lucrative A320 and A321. The C Series could supplant the A319 and eat into demand for the 737 Max 7, Howard Rubel, an analyst with Jefferies, said in a note, referring to the smallest of Boeings re-engined 737s. Both the Airbus A320neo and the C Series share the same geared turbofan engine made by Pratt & Whitney. With the backing of Airbus, the Bombardier model, already outperforming customer expectations, in turn becomes the plane in its category, Heymann said, transforming order prospects for an aircraft whose future had appeared in doubt after complaints of unfair state aid from Boeing had led U.S. President Donald Trumps administration to impose a 300 per cent import tariff. A second production line at Airbuss plant in Mobile, Alabama, could help sidestep the duties won by Boeing. The plane already has more than 50 per cent of its content coming from the U.S. and the new assembly facility could render the aircraft a domestic product and so free from trade restrictions, according to Rubel. If one doesnt want to be eaten up alive on the international stage, the deal between Airbus and Bombardier is good news, Frances economy and finance minister, Bruno Le Maire, said a in a meeting with the AJEF economic journalists association in Paris, signalling his countrys backing for the plan. Boeing said in a statement that Airbus and Bombardier appear to be seeking to circumvent the U.S. findings and labelled the deal questionable. While the transaction has parallels with Boeings acquisition of McDonnell Douglas in 1997 which secured it much-needed production capacity the impact could be much greater, according to Heymann. This is a totally different dynamic, he said. McDonnell Douglas was a 30-year-old plane. Bombardiers C Series is a brand new plane. Correction October 17, 2017: This article was edited from a previous version to update an incorrect photo caption that mistakenly said piggybacking on Bombardier's C Series may save Airbus $10 million (U.S.) in development costs. With files from The Associated Press Read more about: SHARE: OTTAWAAn Indigenous chapter in NAFTA mustnt be allowed to fall by the wayside, regardless of the challenges currently confronting negotiators, says Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde. Canada, the U.S. and Mexico concluded the fourth round of NAFTA negotiations on Tuesday in Arlington, Va. discussions that spanned seven days and involved nearly 30 groups, according to Global Affairs. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer also announced Tuesday that the trade talks are being extended into 2018. Read more: Trudeau, Trump governments slam each other publicly for first time as NAFTA talks go off rails NAFTAs potential end is a wake-up call for Canada U.S. takes aim at supply management system for dairy, eggs and poultry in latest NAFTA talks Bellegarde, who is part of an advisory committee on the talks, said he wants to ensure officials understand the importance of including Indigenous Peoples, since they were left out of original NAFTA negotiations in the 1990s. I just want to make sure the officials at the table are aware and get the importance of not forgetting about the Indigenous Peoples chapter as well, because this is the first time you will have an opportunity to have it in an international trade agreement, Bellegarde said from Milwaukee, Wis., where he spoke at the National Congress of American Indians. Im seizing the opportunity to make sure this doesnt fall off the table. Bellegarde said there is support for the idea of an Indigenous chapter in the trade deal. In order to create economic certainty ... to foster greater Indigenous Peoples participation in the economy and international trade, it makes sense for this Indigenous Peoples chapter to go forward. Bellegarde said Tuesday he has personally enlisted the backing of American tribes for the chapter, pointing out that the National Congress of American Indians passed a resolution in support of its creation. Theyre going to formalize it as well later on this week, he said. Thats good to see that support happening already For her part, Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland has also called for progressive elements to be included in a renegotiated NAFTA, such as stronger labour standards, tougher environmental protections and chapters on gender and Indigenous rights. Ottawa has been exploring how provisions in the trade agreement can support Indigenous economic development while it also considers how to make the pact compliant with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Read more about: SHARE: Toys R Us Inc., the retailer that filed for bankruptcy in North America, has been exploring options for its growing Asian business, including a potential initial public offering, people with knowledge of the matter said. The U.S. chain and its local joint venture partner, the billionaire Fung brothers, have been speaking with investment banks to study the feasibility of listing the Asian business on the Hong Kong bourse, according to the people. A deal could value the unit at as much as $2 billion (U.S.), the people said, asking not to be identified because the information is private. Toys R Us and some of its North American subsidiaries filed for bankruptcy last month, though its Asian unit wasnt included in the proceedings. Deliberations are at an early stage, and Toys R Us hasnt decided which path to pursue, the people said. Toys R Us owns about 85 per cent of the Asian venture while Fung Group, the private holding company of Hong Kong businessmen Victor and William Fung, holds the remainder. The ongoing bankruptcy could make a listing more complicated and harder to market to investors. Still, an IPO of the Asian unit would allow Toys R Uss private-equity owners to recoup some of their investment by selling shares in a business thats still doing well. Throughout Asia, income levels are rising and the consumer is trading up to more higher-end toys, Thomas Jastrzab, a Hong Kong-based retail analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, said by phone Tuesday. In Asia, you should see faster growth in the toy market compared to Western Europe and North America. Read more: Toys R Us to file for bankruptcy protection in Canada As Toys R Us stumbles, Mastermind is opening more stores Toys R Us dominates the $20.7 billion Asia Pacific market for traditional toys and games, according to consultancy Euromonitor International. It had a 20-per-cent share of last years sales of dolls, action figures, puzzles and other products that lack a video-game component. Its closest competitor in the region had a 1.4-per-cent share, the Euromonitor data show. Growth in Asia Pacific helped offset weaker sales in the U.S. and Europe in the quarter ended April 29, Toys R Us said in June. Earlier this year, the company combined its Japanese business with a joint venture running stores in greater China and Southeast Asia. The merged business operates more than 400 outlets, according to its website. The toy retailers owners had initially discussed the feasibility of listing the Asian business as early as 2018, but some parties view that timeline as too ambitious because of the complexities related to the bankruptcy proceedings in the U.S., the people said. Representatives for Toys R Us and its owners, KKR & Co., Bain Capital and Vornado Realty Trust, declined to comment. A spokesperson for Fung Group also declined to comment. A listing could provide a boost for Hong Kong, where fundraising from first-time share sales this year has fallen 42 per cent from the same period in 2016, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The citys market for IPOs is heading for its worst year since 2012 as megadeals including an offering from state-owned China Tower Corp. are pushed to next year. KKR, Bain and Vornado acquired Toys R Us in a $7.5 billion leveraged buyout in 2005. They stand to have their investment erased as the retailer, which has 1,600 stores across dozens of countries, seeks bankruptcy protection after competition from online rivals and price wars made it difficult for the company to service its debt. KKR and Vornado had previously written their investments in the company down to zero. Toys R Us Asia was set up in 1986. Local partner Fung Group is also the biggest shareholder in Li & Fung Ltd., a supplier to U.S. retailers including Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Read more about: SHARE: Veteran investor Marc Faber has resigned his board seats at three companies based in Canada on Tuesday following comments he made in his investment newsletter that America was better off because it was settled by white people instead of Black people. Late Tuesday, Vancouver-based mineral exploration and development company Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. was the latest firm to accept Fabers resignation after Toronto-based Sprott Inc. and Vancouver-based Novagold Resources Inc. announced his departure earlier in the day. In his October Gloom, Boom and Doom Report newsletter, Faber wrote thank God white people populated America, and not blacks. Otherwise, the U.S. would look like Zimbabwe, which it might look one day anyway, but at least America enjoyed 200 years in the economic and political sun under a white majority. Faber provided a copy of the newsletter to The Canadian Press and wrote in an email that if stating some historical facts makes me a racist, then I suppose that I am a racist. For years, Japanese were condemned because they denied the Nanking massacre. Ivanhoe Mines said in a statement Tuesday that it deplores the views about race Faber published in his investment newsletter. Values of equality, respect and dignity for all people are a fundamental underpinning of the companys enterprise and the conduct of every aspect of its business, the statement said. There is zero tolerance for racism. Sprott chief executive Peter Grosskopf called Fabers comments in the newsletter deeply disappointing and completely contradictory with the views of Sprott and its employees. We pride ourselves on being a diverse organization and comments of this sort will not be tolerated, Grosskopf said in a statement. We are committed to providing an inclusive workplace for all of our employees and we extend the same respect to our clients and investors. The investment management firm said Faber has stepped down effective immediately. Precious metals company Novagold announced Fabers departure, but did not address the comments in his investment newsletter. SHARE: NEAR ESTRADA, COSTA RICA-I have no idea why were pulling over. The guide behind the wheel just grins as we jump out at the side of the highway. Up there, says Eduardo Caravaca, pointing to the fork up a tree. A sloth. He sets up a tripod and high-powered scope, and I lean in to take a look wherein the blob lounging on the branch transforms into a long-clawed, hairy sloth. Caravaca whistles mimicking an eagle the sloth swings its head around and I can see the black stripes across its eyes. The sloth keeps listening for the faux eagle, I cant stop smiling, and somewhere nearby a pastor is preaching the Sunday gospel just off Hwy. 32. After putting my phone up to the scope to take pictures (harder than it looks), we hit the road and I start scanning the trees for sloths (also harder than it looks). You just look for something out of the ordinary, Caravaca instructs as we head toward the Caribbean. Its all out of the ordinary for this Canadian: walls of tropical green lining the road, wild flashes as exotic birds swoop past, not to mention monkeys swinging in trees. Costa Rica may be only a fraction of the Earths surface 0.03 per cent but nearly 6 per cent of the planets biodiversity is just out the car window. Birders and biologists have been flocking here for decades, but in recent years, adorable kids Ice Age movies and the rest of pop culture have discovered the sloth. The unwitting superstar likes to hang out in Cecropia trees look for leaves shaped like hands, Caravaca says. When hes in the passenger seat and not navigating the video game that is Costa Rican traffic, he can spot 10 or more sloths in a couple of hours. The locals call sloths perezoso, for lazy bear. But theyre not really lazy. Theyre just misunderstood. Its not fair, guys, says Marco Cascante, our guide at the Sloth Sanctuary in Cahuita, on the Caribbean side of the country. This is not laziness, this is animal adaption. We watch a sloth climb, slo-mo, to his lunch of leaves. These energy-efficient animals have almost no body fat, take up to 50 days to digest food and only do their sloth business every week or so, slowly climbing down the tree to mark their territory. Theyre covered with thick hair to keep them warm in the Costa Rican heat, because they dont move much and when they do they move so slowly, they are not able to generate body heat, Cascante says. But when sloths hear an eagle, or face another emergency, they can go as fast as you may go for a weekend run, provided youre not on the track team. Sloths also manage to find the energy to mate. Motivation, right? quips Cascante. The whole deal takes a whopping 40 seconds. (Thats what you call a quickie, scoffs a 60-something woman in hoop earrings next to me). Eleven months later, baby sloths are born with teeth to eat leaves and long claws to hang on to mom. But when theres a defect and they cant hang on, the babies fall from the trees. Mom hears the baby crying, but way down there, Cascante says, adding some unexpected drama to the afternoon. Does mama go look for baby? Yes or no? A young woman holding her kids pink sippy cups shoots her hand up for yes. Youre right! Of course mama goes to get the baby, says Cascante, reaffirming the world is a true and good place. For those of you who said no, shame on you! he scolds. But more drama even maternal bonds have their limits. If the baby keeps falling, eventually the mama sloth stops climbing down to get it. The lucky abandoned sloths end up at the sanctuary, where they live out their days lying around in front of adoring fans. There are also plenty of oohs and ahhs for the sloths that have lost eyes or limbs to barbwire or power lines. But we dont meet any of the roughly 70 per cent of the animals that are being rehabilitated to be reintroduced into the forest. We do see a few wild sloths while paddling down a pretty stream behind the sanctuary (wild seems too frenetic an adjective). We see blue crabs scampering along the shore and crocodiles in the water, all while being serenaded by birds trilling, cicadas buzzing and howler monkeys whooping it up. At the end of the tour, we head back to the parking lot with its giant sculpture of a sloth. Caravaca starts grinning again. He grabs the tripod, sets up the scope so I can watch a dozen or more howler monkeys climb through the trees, entirely unconcerned that their slow-moving neighbours are getting so much attention. Jennifer Allford was a guest of Visit Costa Rica, which did not review or approve this story. When you go: Get there: It takes just over five hours to fly direct from Toronto to San Jose, Costa Rica, on WestJet. Get around: Rent a car, consider hiring a guide and head east from San Jose for about three hours to get to the Sloth Sanctuary. Do your research: slothsanctuary.com, visitcostarica.com SHARE: ARLINGTON, VA.The United States has lit the fuse on one of Canadas most politically explosive trade issues, asking in North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) talks for an end to the supply management system for dairy, chicken, eggs and turkey within the next decade. With that demand, the U.S. has now adopted a highly aggressive posture on virtually all the key issues expected to arise in the current NAFTA talks: It has asked to erect trade barriers in its own politically sensitive sectors, while eliminating them north of the border. The latest demands come near the end of a weeklong round where American negotiators dropped one bombshell demand after another, leading the other countries to question whether the U.S. goal is to actually reach a deal or to blow up NAFTA altogether. Read more: Everything you need to know about NAFTA Another Trump poison pill for NAFTA? Ottawa slams demand for 50% U.S. content in cars Donald Trump isnt all wrong about NAFTA: Walkom Two sources tell The Canadian Press the request came on Sunday evening, catching some on the Canadian side off-guard, since they hadnt expected the highly contentious issue to arise during the current round. One source says the supply-management request came with an initial phase-in period of five per cent more market access per year, leading to total duty-free, quota-free trade in protected supply-managed areas within 10 years. That adds dairy, poultry, and eggs to a list of irritants that includes auto parts, textiles, trade-enforcement panels, Buy American rules for public works and a proposed five-year termination clause embedded in the agreement, with the countries holding not just different positions, but sitting on opposite sides of gaping ideological differences. Outrageous, said Pierre Lampron, president of the Dairy Farmers of Canada, of the latest proposal. It would be the end of supply management . . . We are not surprised by the U.S. demands, they are in line with the demands they have made in other sectors. The Canadian government, meanwhile, is calling the idea a non-starter. Canadas system of protections was born from a 1960s effort to stabilize dairy prices, and was later emulated in other industries. It works by limiting imports and setting fixed prices. The systems critics say the tightly controlled program stifles innovation, bars Canadian companies from selling onto international markets, limits choice at the grocery store and saddles Canadian consumers with higher prices. The U.S. move was praised by the Montreal Economic Institute, a free-market think tank, which urged Canadian policy-makers to seize the opportunity to dismantle a system that it says costs Canadian families an extra $339 a year in grocery bills. You cant, on the one hand, defend tariffs that sometimes reach 300 per cent for supply-managed products, then accuse the American government of being protectionist, said Alexandre Moreau, a policy analyst with the institute. That being said, the Canadian government should also make sure the Americans abolish their own dairy programs and obviously offer fair compensation to farmers for their (supply-managed) quotas. Therein lies the challenge. Defenders of the current system say eliminating it would create new problems starting with the billions it would cost to buy out existing quotas. They say the status quo provides stability in rural communities, allows farms to survive without boom-bust cycles and makes taxpayer bailouts unnecessary. The U.S., meanwhile, maintains numerous support programs to prop up its farmers, they note. No major Canadian political party has ever opposed the system. The federal Liberal government had said entering the talks it did not want to even discuss supply management, having promised to maintain the system. Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay said Monday: Ive indicated quite clearly that our government is going to fight to make sure (supply management) stays in place. To deal with anything else is simply a non-starter. The U.S. has now tabled a series of positions far outside the realm of what Canada says its prepared to negotiate, prompting fears that a deal may be slipping out of reach. Indeed, the prospect of a deal by years end already seems impossible. With Mexico and the U.S. embroiled in national elections next year, the countries fear that a failure to get a deal by early next year will push the talks into 2019. U.S. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, keeps threatening to cancel the existing agreement, to force concessions from the other countries. Mexicos finance minister, Jose Antonio Meade, blamed the uncertainty Monday for damaging his countrys currency. Pro-trade U.S. Sen. John McCain tweeted a Wall Street Journal editorial with the headline, Trumps NAFTA threat: Ending the pact would be the worst economic blunder since Nixon, calling the editorial a must-read. The head of the World Trade Organization (WTO) warned against increasing uncertainty in the global trading system. The U.S. is being accused of sabotaging the dispute panels at the international body, as its seeking to gut them within NAFTA. I hope that (NAFTA) will not (end) because not only of the economic impact . . . but also for the systemic implications, said WTO director-general Roberto Azevedo. Its very important to have these initiatives because they are the groundwork; they are the foundations of the WTO itself. The U.S. has introduced aggressive demands in virtually every major NAFTA area: Auto parts. The U.S. wants all cars to comprise 50 per cent U.S. content to avoid a tariff. The U.S. has requested this policy be phased in within one year which automakers call impossible. Dispute-resolution. The U.S. wants to gut the enforcement systems of NAFTA, making the panels for Chapter 11, 19 and 20 disputes either non-binding, or voluntary. Buy American. The U.S. wants to severely curb other countries access to public works contracts. Sunset clause. The U.S. has requested a termination clause that would end NAFTA after five years, unless all parties agree to extend the agreement. Dairy. The supply management request follows an earlier request for a de-facto veto over Canadian milk-classification decisions, which in the case of diafiltered cheese-making products has advantaged Canadian producers. Read more about: SHARE: OTTAWAA man accused of holding Amanda Lindhout hostage in Somalia testified in court he did not receive ransom money even though he twice told undercover RCMP officers he got $10,000 U.S. Ali Omar Ader told Ontario Superior Court on Tuesday that in 2013, he lied about being paid to a Mountie posing as his business agent because it was what the man wanted to hear. At the time, Ader believed he was meeting the businessman on the island of Mauritius to discuss plans to publish his book about Somalia. Read more: Mother of ex-hostage Amanda Lindhout speaks out on victim shaming, Joshua Boyle and her disgust with Ottawa Accused Lindhout kidnapper admitted receiving $10K of ransom: RCMP officer Amanda Lindhouts mother says accused kidnapper feared he was being set up The seeds of the phoney book project were planted three years earlier when Ader tried to make contact with Lindhouts mother, months after her daughter was freed. The undercover Mountie phoned Ader in Somalia, saying he had been hired by the shaken family to respond to all queries. They stayed in touch about Aders book, leading to the face-to-face meeting in Mauritius. The Mounties saw the elaborate scheme as a way to get Ader to admit involvement in the hostage-taking. Ader told the court Tuesday he feared his business associate would not trust him if he denied responsibility for the kidnapping. Ader said he repeated the lie about getting $10,000 U.S. two years later in Ottawa this time with his supposed agent and a second Mountie posing as a Vancouver publisher because he wanted to make his dream of being an author a reality. To tell you the truth, I did not receive any money, Ader said under questioning from Samir Adam, one of his lawyers. Lindhout and Australian photographer Nigel Brennan were abducted by armed men while working on a story near Mogadishu in August 2008, the beginning of 15 months in captivity. Both were released upon payment of a ransom. Ader, a 40-year-old Somalian national who speaks some English, has pleaded not guilty to a criminal charge of hostage-taking for his alleged role as a negotiator and translator. In a secretly recorded sting video of the 2015 Ottawa meeting, Ader acknowledges being paid for helping the shadowy group of armed kidnappers. In the witness box, however, Ader has told a different story. He has painted himself as a victim who was coerced into assisting three gang leaders and a posse of gun-toting youths over several months through threats, a beating and an attack on his family. He said he was detained by the group and forced to make ransom calls to Lindhouts mother. Ader described escaping at one point, and later surrendering to the kidnappers after they assaulted his family and threatened to do worse. In fact, Ader said, he then moved his wife and children into a house with the kidnappers as it was the only option at the time. Ader insisted he tried to tell his supposed business agent in Mauritius that he had no choice but to work with the hostage-takers, but the man wasnt interested. He did not listen to me he did not pay attention to me. Ader said since his associate kept closing down the conversation, he told him what he liked hearing. He said he felt compelled to repeat the lie about being paid to help the gang to secure the book deal at the meeting in Ottawa. In cross-examining Ader, prosecutor Croft Michaelson challenged this latest version of events, saying his testimony was largely untruthful. Michaelson wondered why Ader would make up a story in Mauritius for a man he had come to see as a trusted business partner, instead of telling him he was forced to co-operate with a gang of kidnappers. Why wouldnt you have told him the story you have told us today? Michaelson asked. Wouldnt it have made more sense to tell him the truth than to manufacture a lie? Michaelson also quizzed Ader about moving his family into a house with the hostage-takers. Why would you bring your wife and children with you to live with gunmen? Ader replied: It was part of the surrender. Read more about: SHARE: MONTREALOn April 17, 1849, an Ontario politician named Malcolm Cameron sent a letter from the Parliament of the United Canada in Montreal to London, England. In it, the merchant and elected member from Kent, in western Ontario, requested payment on a bill. Before being sent, it was stamped as official correspondence of the legislative assembly. It arrived a few days later in the hands of its intended recipient, a London lawyer named John D. Hughes. Most everything that was contained in the prestigious building located just a block from the busy St. Lawrence River was lost when angry English rioters stormed the building eight days after Camerons letter was sent, resulting in a devastating fire on the night of April 25, 1849. Now, 168 years later, archeologists who have been excavating the site that had been a city parking lot for most of the last 90 years believe they have found the official copper alloy stamp that was stained with blue ink and pressed down on Camerons envelope. Unearthed just a few weeks ago, the coin-sized stamp is one of the highlights of a years-long dig that has recovered hundreds of thousands of artifacts ranging from pipes and wine bottles to fine china plates and tea sets to oyster shells that would have served as rich snack food for the likes of John A. Macdonald, Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine, George-Etienne Cartier and Robert Baldwin. We didnt think wed find them, Louise Pothier, chief curator with Montreals Pointe-a-Calliere archeological museum, said of the official stamps, which were discovered in areas that correspond to the office of the clerk of the legislative assembly and from the legislative council library. Pothier said such items would normally be carefully stored in the archives when not in use. The fact that it was a quick and violent fire resulted in them being left on site and rediscovered more than a century-and-a-half later. Its a very precious discovery for Montreal and were very happy to have stumbled upon them. It was a time of great change, when lawmakers here were beginning to shake off colonial masters abroad and when French and English were learning to coexist. The protests and fires occurred during anglophone protests about financial compensation for francophone rebels who suffered property losses during an uprising against British rule in 1837. The flurry of digging and discovery since 2011 also inspired the neighbours of the 1849 parliamentarians the Grey Nuns of Montreal to delve into their own archives this summer. There, they discovered a contemporary account of the incident that sheds new light on the fires origins. Protest leader Alfred Perry, Montreals then-fire chief, suggested it was accidental the result of a broken gas line after he and four others were charged with arson. But the account from the nunnery is more nefarious. One small element that came out of it was that (rioters) lit the fire at the four corners of the building and that, in three-quarters of an hour, the building was no longer there, Pothier said. The fire also destroyed the two parliamentary libraries, and an estimated 22,000 public documents from Upper and Lower Canada Ontario and Quebec. Some of them dated back hundreds of years to the earliest days of French colonization. About 30 charred fragments of the 6,000 volumes contained in one of the libraries were recovered. One, which looks like little more than a carbonized crumbling mass, has since been identified as the minutes of the lower chamber of Frances parliament for the months of October and November of 1830. Archeologist Hendrik Van Gijseghem said the specimen was shipped to the Canadian Conservation Institute in Ottawa and subjected to an experimental treatment that allowed a page to be extracted. It was carefully frozen and progressively dried until it became readable. After that it was just a question of Googling a sentence or two and we immediately had the title of the work, he said. To find paper like that calcified or not in an archeological context is extremely rare unless youre working in an arid environment in the Middle East. Its almost unheard of. With the dig drawing to a close, researchers now have a staggering amount of work ahead cleaning, examining and cataloguing all the artifacts, but the Point-a-Calliere museum hopes to showcase the artifacts in a pavilion that would mark the site. We have the privilege as archeologists to touch the past, to get closer to the people who lived during a certain time, said Pothier. What we want to do is go much further and allow the population to have this privilege to be in contact with the people of the past . . . and to reduce the space that separates us from historic events. Read more about: SHARE: Two men imprisoned in Canada are accused of playing a leadership role from behind bars in what American authorities are calling one of the worlds most prolific fentanyl-trafficking and money-laundering operations. The charges in the case, which come as North America grapples with an increasingly deadly opioid crisis, are said to the first in the United States against designated Chinese manufacturers of fentanyl and other opiates. The U.S. Justice Department says customers bought pure fentanyl and other dangerous drugs online directly from Chinese factories, and inexperienced users would overdose because they didnt realize the potency of the opioids. Read more: Fentanyl mostly responsible for new height in B.C. illicit drug deaths Chris Christie says its not good that Trump hasnt set drug emergency over opioids Alleged fentanyl dealers across Canada increasingly facing manslaughter charges According to the indictments, Jason Berry and Daniel Ceron ran the Canadian end of the alleged criminal enterprise while imprisoned in the Drummond Institution in Drummondville, Que. Further details about them were not immediately available, but they are accused of arranging shipments of fentanyl and other drugs from Canada to Florida and Portland Ore., in 2014, according to documents filed with an American court. The duo are among five Canadians facing charges, U.S. authorities said. In all, more than a dozen accused from around the world were involved in the manufacture and distribution of tonnes of fentanyl and other powerful narcotics sold in the United States, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein announced Tuesday. Two Chinese nationals, Xiaobang Yan, 40, and Jian Zhang, 38, were indicted as overall leaders of the group that operated from January 2013 through August 2016. The investigations of Yan and Zhang revealed a new and disturbing facet of the opioid crisis in America: Fentanyl and fentanyl analogues are coming into the United States in numerous ways, including highly pure shipments of fentanyl from factories in China directly to U.S. customers who purchase it on the internet, the U.S. Justice Dept. said in a statement. Unwary or inexperienced users often have no idea that they are ingesting fentanyl until it is too late. Fentanyl and related opiates are blamed for 20,000 deaths in the U.S. last year and nearly 3,000 more in Canada. Several deaths and serious illness have been tied directly to the alleged ring, U.S. authorities said. Federal agents were able to identify more than 100 distributors of synthetic opioids involved with Yans networks, they said. Xiaobing Yan, Jian Zhang and their respective associates represent one of the most significant drug threats facing the country overseas organized crime groups capable of producing nearly any synthetic drug imaginable, including fentanyl, and who attempt to hide their tracks with web-based sales, international shipments and cryptocurrency transactions, said Robert Patterson, acting administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. U.S. officials said Yan kept tabs on legislation and law-enforcement activities in the United States and China, and modified the chemical structures of the fentanyl analogues he made to evade prosecution in the United States. Court documents from the District Court eastern division in North Dakota allege the accused used American, Canadian and virtual currency for their transactions in which they ordered and sold the drugs online via secretive web sites. To hide their financial transactions, co-conspirators used off-shore accounts, anonymous virtual currency transactions, and third parties to move money, as well as using encrypted communication applications to discuss financial transactions, the indictment states. The RCMP, one of several agencies involved in the investigation, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. SHARE: Ontarios Environment Ministry ignored warnings raised by its own engineers about public safety at petrochemical plants in Sarnias Chemical Valley, alleges a report leaked following a joint investigation by media outlets, including the Star. The report was presented to the staff of Environment Minister Chris Ballard on Sept. 20. It alleges the ministry has for years ignored concerns from the First Nations community of Aamjiwnaang surrounded on three sides by petrochemical plants and dismissed engineers worries about the risk of industrial leaks with possibly irreversible health impacts. The engineers have been raising concerns about public safety in the communities surrounding Ontario petrochemical plants since 2009, says the report, prepared by their union, the Professional Engineers Government of Ontario (PEGO). The report comes to light after an investigation by the Star, Global News, the National Observer, the Michener Awards Foundation and journalism schools at Ryerson and Concordia universities revealed a troubling pattern of secrecy and potentially toxic leaks in the area known as Chemical Valley. There are 57 industrial polluters registered with the Canadian and U.S. governments within 25 kilometres of Sarnia. The investigation also raised questions about whether companies and the provincial government are properly warning residents of Sarnia and the Aamjiwnaang First Nation when potentially toxic substances including benzene, known to cause cancer at high levels of long-term exposure are leaked. More than 500 Ministry of the Environment incident reports, obtained for the investigation through freedom of information requests, detail industrial leaks in Sarnias Chemical Valley that released a range of emissions from a 2014 benzene spill that experts said should have triggered alarms, to a valve left open for three months venting hydrocarbons that year, to a two-hour leak of hydrogen sulphide from tanks in 2015. The PEGO also claims ministry managers are muzzling and excluding key engineers that raise concerns with respect to public safety, saying the government refused to publish a 2014 report detailing the issues. The report didnt include details of the muzzling claim, and it wasnt clear why the 2014 report wasnt published or what it contained. PEGO didnt immediately respond to requests for clarification. Ballard said Tuesday that hes open to input and will discuss the September report with the union. He said he hadnt seen it yet but that his staff are reviewing the information. I look forward to taking seriously what theyre talking about, he said. I encourage everyone to speak their mind and to bring their issues forward. On Monday, Ballard announced the province would fund a study into the health effects of air pollution on the residents of Aamjiwnaang and Chemical Valley, but didnt commit to a timeline or detail a process. The community has sought funding from provincial and federal governments for such a study since 2007, to no avail. Though benzene levels in Sarnia have dropped significantly in the past 25 years, documents obtained in the investigation revealed how refineries in the area release three to 10 times the annual limit of the carcinogen, exceeding stricter targets put in place in 2016. The public health data that exists is inconclusive, but critics have said the information, collected at the county level, misses the impact on people living in the immediate vicinity of so-called Chemical Valley. Pressed on a timeline for the health study in question period at Queens Park on Tuesday, Premier Kathleen Wynne said the province is committed to beginning immediately but didnt specify when or how that would happen. Federal Green party Leader Elizabeth May said the situation in Chemical Valley and Aamjiwnaang in particular is one of Canadas top examples of environmental racism, and officials dont need to wait for a study to start exploring options to reduce harmful spills and emissions, including moving the First Nations community. Its going to be very hard to imagine with the number of plants that currently ring Aamjiwaang First Nation, how do you make that right, she said. Though community members have floated the idea of relocation in the past, Aamjiwnaang resident Ada Lockridge previously told the investigation theres nowhere for them to go. My roots are here, my grandfather lived here, she said. All our relatives are buried here. Aamjiwnaang Chief Joanne Rogers, however, said the communitys concerns go back much further than the ones detailed in the leaked report. Weve always had concerns about our health and safety, she said. I believe (the health study is) just going to probably document what we already believe, and that is that pollution has an effect on our communitys health. On Monday, federal Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor said shes asked her department to look into the decision it made in 2014 under the previous Conservative government not to fully fund the health survey. However, federal NDP environment critic Linda Duncan slammed the federal governments response, saying it dropped the ball and should intervene immediately. This should be a wake-up call, Duncan said. Federal Environment Minister Catherine McKenna said shes looking into ways to strengthen the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. We need to make sure that we have a strong regulatory regime to make sure that this doesnt happen, she said Tuesday. With files from Carolyn Jarvis, Global News and National Observer SHARE: Tuesday, October 17, 2017 The North Dakota Supreme Court denied a petition from district judges to terminate a prior court order On December 14, 2016, a petition was filed seeking an order allowing non-North Dakota licensed lawyers to represent criminal defendants who were criminally charged as a result of protest activities connected to the Dakota Access Pipeline. On January 18, 2017, this Court issued an order granting the Petition to Permit Temporary Provision of Legal Services by Qualified Attorneys From Outside North Dakota, subject to certain conditions. Included in those conditions is that found in paragraph 12 (9) that a lawyer admitted pro hac vice under the Order must verify in writing to the North Dakota State Board of Law Examiners no later than January 5, 2018, their licensure status and provide a listing of pending cases for which they are acting under the January 18, 2017 Order. On September 11, 2017, the Judges of the South Central Judicial District filed a petition requesting termination of our January 18, 2017 Order Permitting Temporary Provision of Legal Services. The court noted comments to the proposed order and concluded Based on the foregoing, and in consideration of the record in this matter, we conclude termination of our prior Order would be premature. We deny the Petition to Terminate the Special Provision of Legal Services by Qualified Attorneys From Outside North Dakota. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2017/10/the-north-dakota-supreme-court-on-december-14-2016-a-petition-was-filed-seeking-an-order-allowing-non-north-dakota-license.html Facebook is set to unveil a made-in-Canada measure to guard the 2019 vote from the scourge of fake news and misinformation online while south of the border the social media heavyweight details how foreign players may have used the platform to spread discord in the 2016 presidential election. The new tool, billed as the Canadian Election Integrity Initiative, is a response to a warning from the countrys top cybersecurity agency in June that multiple hacker groups would almost certainly attempt to influence the next federal election. According to a news release, Facebook Canadas initiative will help make its platform a safer and more secure environment for genuine civic engagement. A spokeswoman for the network kept mum on details Monday, but pointed to recent moves to improve election integrity in other countries, such as strengthening the political ad review process, cracking down on fake accounts, sharing more data with electoral commissions and security authorities, and most recently, making targeted political advertising less opaque by quashing dark posts. Dark advertising allows organizations to promote their message directly to an intended recipient. For example, a politically-charged group could target and attempt to influence certain voters with an ad promoting a candidates pledge to tighten immigration policy, while trumpeting the exact opposite to users that indicate they favour a looser stance. Facebook said earlier this month the company will show who ran such an ad and all of the other ads the group is running, in an effort to improve transparency. The move followed a string of reports alleging Russian-linked groups ran thousands of ads on Facebook about political-hot-potato issues in the lead-up to the 2016 presidential election, and in favour of the eventual victor President Donald Trump. Facebook then agreed to turn over the ads to congressional investigators amid mounting scrutiny over the role it played in enabling alleged foreign influence. Canadas Democratic Institutions Minister Karina Gould, who will be on hand for the announcement in Ottawa on Thursday, said Facebook and other digital media platforms must be transparent and give citizens what they need to make informed decisions at the ballot box. As technology is changing, as digital platforms are changing, its important for Canadians to be aware of the information thats out there, Gould said in a recent interview. Its important for them to have those resources to assess . . . what the motivations are behind that information, and how theyre going to use that information to make decisions in their lives as citizens. Gould said Facebooks announcement wont come with any new changes to policy or legislation the government is still working out its own response to the June risk assessment from the Communications Security Establishment (CSE). She cited freedom of speech as one major concern. I dont think the media would want the government determining whats good and bad information, she said. Its a broader conversation that we have to have, and Im glad were starting to have it here in Canada, with runway leading up to an election. In the meantime the CSE is advising political parties and Elections Canada how to guard against malicious hacks, foreign or domestic, and the government is engaging digital media companies such as Facebook, Twitter and Google to help address concerns about the integrity of political discourse online. This is something that weve seen as a growing trend and threat over the past number of years and its rapidly evolving, Gould said. While the proliferation of fake news and misinformation online has been more pronounced in the U.S., Canada has not been immune to the risk the CSE noted low-level threat activity in the 2015 election, and said Canada could become more vulnerable as the election nears. Hacktivists will likely study the success of past influence operations and adopt more sophisticated and successful activities, the report said. For instance, foreign or domestic adversaries could spread lies and propaganda at a minimal cost, using bots a network of accounts co-ordinated by one user to amplify their message and artificially giving rise to the appearance of public consensus in support of a particular view. The CSE also cautioned against groups who may pay people to disseminate propaganda in the comment sections of traditional news sites and social media, otherwise known as troll farms. Malicious groups may also masquerade as legitimate sources, blurring the line between what is real and what is disinformation, CSE said. Thursdays announcement will include a panel discussion on digital civic engagement featuring Gould, Facebook Canadas head of public policy Kevin Chan, Canada Research Chair in Social Media Data Stewardship and associate professor at Ryerson Anatoliy Gruzd, and Matthew Johnson, director of education at MediaSmarts, a non-profit geared toward media literacy. Earlier this fall Google, which has also come under fire for enabling the spread of fake news, took steps to combat political misinformation by bankrolling a news literacy program in schools. Read more about: SHARE: It was a bone collectors bonanza. A bunch of long bones and more scattered bits strewn about. Michael Paquet took them home because thats what he does, strange as the hobby might seem to most of us. And, got to say, Paquet with his long mournful face, the shaved scalp and sprout of dreadlocks looks like someone who might sleep in a coffin. A week later he returned to the area, in the Junction. Its pretty fruitful for finding dead things, he said on Monday from the witness stand. Mostly animal bones that Paquet harvests for his morbid collection rodents and raccoons and birds. Because there was an abattoir located nearby, he assumed the long bones came from slaughtered livestock. But second time around, Paquet noticed a plastic bag resting against a tree in the woodsy section along Lavender Creek Trail. There were bones sticking out of it, part of a skull, ribs. Clearly human remains. Read more: Homicide victims skull found in Toronto field Why did this happen? judge asks at sentencing in Cabbagetown murder Guilty verdict skirts the central mystery of Nighisti Semrets murder: DiManno Collecting the haul, Paquet moseyed home, dropping the skull on the way; stuffing the detached mandible into his backpack. The jaw he took into his bedroom, setting it down near the taxidermied cat, the giant ceramic vulture and the mounted . . . antelope heads? Thats what they look like, with their straight horns. Only then did Paquet call police. Never know what youll learn about the human species at a murder trial. These bones, turned out, were the remains of Rigat Ghirmay. Paquet found them on April 27, 2016 three years after retired roofer Francis McNullen had discovered a duffel bag in the Black Creek Flood Control area, resting on a grassy knoll near the channel. I kicked it. It didnt move. The zipper was broken so he stuck a finger inside and practically reeled away from the smell of death. Maggots covered the plastic bag inside the plastic bag. That was the partial torso of Rigat Ghirmay, her identity determined by following the clue from a receipt also found in the bag. Police believe 28-year-old Ghirmay was killed on May 15, 2013, murdered and dismembered in her apartment tub. And that was seven months after another woman Nighisti Semret was viciously stabbed to death in Cabbagetown, as she walked home in the early morning rain from her night job as a hotel cleaner. Semret and Ghirmay knew each other. Both had resided for a time at Sojourn House, a shelter for refugees. Both were immigrants from Eritrea. And both had crossed paths with Adonay Zekarias, also Eritrean. Semret had helped him fill out documents; Ghirmay had attended English classes with him and, for a short time, they shared an apartment, apparently in a brother-sister relationship. In June, 2015, Zekarias was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in the death of Semret, whod fought hard for her life, as Zekarias wielded the knife, striking him with her umbrella. He fled the scene when a Good Samaritan attempted to intervene. Zekarias, 45, is now on trial for the Ghirmay murder. No motive for the Semret slaying has ever been determined. But the prosecution has a theory for why, months later, Ghirmay was killed: She knew too much. She had the theory goes begun to put together the pieces. She had to be silenced. These are interconnections a jury might never have heard, the details severely prejudicial to Zekarias. But last week the defendant changed his mind and asked to proceed with a judge-alone trial, the Crown agreeing. So now, although Justice Michael Brown has yet to rule on a motion to exclude discreditable conduct evidence including the murder conviction, the entire murder narrative flowing out of that there are no jurors ears and eyes to protect, thus the evidence record can be reported. One unforeseen consequence that jumps out from the prosecution theory, as outlined in the Crowns factum, is that Ghirmays grotesque fate may have been sealed on the day that a Toronto homicide detective revealed crucial details about the suspect they were then seeking. Contrary to what police had earlier said, the person they were looking for was not white, according to DNA found on Semret, and it was likely the man had suffered slashing wounds to his arms or hand during the attack. A $50,000 reward was offered. At that time, Ghirmay was a poor woman, living in subsidized housing, with $500 credit in the bank. That press conference was held on May 6, 2013 nine days before Ghirmay was last seen alive on video surveillance, entering her apartment building with Zekarias. She would leave, says the Crown, in pieces, stuffed into that duffel bag McNullen later discovered. Zekarias is seen, on surveillance video retrieved by investigators, leaving Ghirmays apartment on the morning of May 16, returning an hour later with what appears to be an empty suitcase, leaving again rolling the suitcase which now looks heavy and leaking. He returns to the elevator minutes later to wipe away spots using a rag. The Crown maintains that Zekarias killed and dismembered Ghirmay in the preceding 12 hours. Police found cutting marks in the tub. Between Sermets murder and Ghirmays vanishing, the latter was often seen in company with Zekarias at both of their apartment buildings. With him by her side, she bought a TV for her new flat. They both obtained cellphones. For a time between December 9, 2012 and February 20, 2013, Zekarias was in Germany. Ghirmay went with him to buy the plane ticket. When he returned to Canada, police were still looking for a white man with a limp. And while away, as police would learn when they later seized his laptop which both Zekarias and Ghirmay had used hed searched for stories about the Semret murder investigation. Most crucial to the prosecutions theory, there is this: On the morning Semret was killed, Oct. 23, 2012, Zekarias called 911 from his apartment on Humber Ave., claiming hed injured his hand lifting something. Ghirmay was with him. She stayed with Zekarias as he was transported to hospital by paramedics. At the hospital, he told medical staff hed been injured by a door slamming on both his hands. But staff was suspicious because he didnt have crushing type injuries which would have resulted from such an incident. They presented like sharp force injuries, as if made by a knife. Zekarias was unwilling to provide further details. The following day he underwent surgery on both hands. It didnt add up for the medical team. But it might have started adding up for Ghirmay, if not then she didnt yet know that Semret had been murdered perhaps later. Theoretically, all Ghirmay had to do after her suspicions were aroused, was make a call to police about a friend who came home with extensive wounds on his hands mere hours after their mutual friend had been killed. And then, months later, police announced that enticing reward. For a wary man whod already killed once, that might have loomed as temptation too far. Rosie DiManno usually appears Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. SHARE: A lot has been said, and written, about the proposed Lawrence East SmartTrack station in Scarborough. Public hearings opened up last week on John Torys proposed additions to the provincial GO Regional Express Rail plan, and the politics of the approval of that particular station have been in the news for months the auditor general is investigating the decision to place a station on Lawrence. Much, but not all, of that discussion revolves around how many people are expected to use that station, if and when it ever opens. And while I think its good that authorities investigate and debate the questions that have arisen properly, I also think its worthwhile to note that a couple of key variables will to a large extent determine the ridership and usefulness of that station. These are variables that still havent really been sorted out to anyones satisfaction: bus service, and fares. These are going to be a bigger determinant, I think, than potential development at the station. At least in the short term. Shoshanna Saxe, an assistant professor of civil engineering and a member of the University of Torontos Transportation Research Institute, said theres only so much the government can do. She noted the area has had a rapid transit stop in the Scarborough Rapid Transit station for more than three decades and development remains low, a story in the Star read this week. Demand is something that the city and the province can try and nudge, they can try and inspire, but if the market isnt there, thats not within the citys control, she went on to say. I think shes certainly right that the station there, like most SRT stations, has not generated development around it. But my experience tells me that doesnt necessarily tell us much about the demand and potential demand for service there. And not just because SmartTrack/RER promises a one-seat trip to Union Station in about 17 minutes, whereas making the same trip today starting at Lawrence East SRT would require changing trains twice and take half an hour. Its something more than that. As it happens, I lived in Scarborough, between Markham Rd. and Bellamy, south of Lawrence, for much of 14 years, and in that time I did not have a drivers license. I took the TTC every day, including downtown to Ryerson for the years I attended school there. During that time, Lawrence East was the closest transit station to my house. And during that time, I may only have set foot inside that station half a dozen times. Thats because the two bus options close to my house went directly to Warden subway station, which was twice the distance away. The bus trip to Lawrence East, if I were to make it, required a transfer, and would take just as long or longer than the one-bus trip to Warden. My own experience wasnt some weird quirk. Almost every north-south bus route in Scarborough feeds people to one of a few stations: Scarborough Town Centre, Kennedy, or Warden. Not surprisingly, those three stations have tremendously high ridership. Warden station, with eight different bus connections, saw almost 30,000 passengers a day in 2015. Lawrence East, with one single bus line connection, attracted only 8,130. The passengers go where TTC buses or streetcars take them. It isnt some oddity of Scarborough, either. Chester subway station is a short walk from both Broadview and Pape stations along the Danforth. Those three stations are in the same neighbourhood the development and population density around those three stations is the same. And yet: Broadview, served by two streetcar lines and four bus lines, serves over 33,000 passengers a day. Pape, fed by four bus lines including the mighty Don Mills, serves 28,700 passengers a day. And Chester, served by zero bus connections, is among the TTCs least-used stations, serving only 7,700 per day less than Lawrence East SRT! Outside of the downtown core, where the massive office density makes stations like St. Andrew hubs of walk-in or walk-out traffic, its the same across the system. Royal York Station, served by four bus routes, sees 20,000 passengers per day, while a kilometre away Old Mill has only one bus connection and serves only 6,600 passengers. Glencairn station has no bus platform and only one connecting bus route and serves only 5,700 passengers, while Lawrence West and Eglinton West immediately north and south of it each have four bus routes coming into their platforms, and serve roughly three times as many passengers each. If you want more passengers at Lawrence East, whether its an RT, LRT, subway, or GO station in the end, you just need to run the buses from the surrounding area into it. To some great extent, at least. But if its a GO (RER or SmartTrack) station of some kind, you need something else, too. You need the fare to be the same as for transferring to a TTC vehicle. Back when I lived in Scarborough and travelled to Ryerson every day, my bus to Warden station travelled directly past two different GO stations. Transferring onto the GO train would have cut my commute time significantly. But my TTC transfer was no good there. I would have had to buy a GO ticket (about double the price of the TTC fare on its own) and then because of the TTCs transfer rules, I also would have had to pay an additional TTC fare to take a subway from Union up to school. So my options were to pay quadruple the price to take the GO train or ride twice as long on the TTC. I was a broke student. Like most Scarborough to downtown commuters, I stayed on the bus. Now, service at a TTC fare was part of MayorJohn Torys promise for SmartTrack. And the SmartTrack website today claims that these stations, though they will be operated by GO Transit, will be served by TTC buses. But I havent heard with any certainty that TTC fares will be honoured (Metrolinx makes frequent reference to fare integration, which sounds like wiggling to me), and I have seen no detailed plans for how SmartTack and the one-stop subway plan do or dont change the bus-feeder network. My sense, based not on expertise but on experience, is that the potential usefulness and business of a station like Lawrence East will depend directly on those two things. If were talking about that station, then alongside the behind-the-scenes intrigue and the talk of development potential, we should be talking about buses and fares. Edward Keenan writes on city issues ekeenan@thestar.ca. Follow: @thekeenanwire Read more about: SHARE: As the Battle of the Bloor Street Bike Lanes winds down, a new front in Toronto's Road Wars has opened up. This one, on Yonge between Sheppard and Finch, is being fought over the same issue, namely, who owns the streets. In theory, of course, city thoroughfares belong to all Torontonians. But as we know, they were long ago handed over to drivers. Recently, however, pedestrians and cyclists, newly empowered, have started to press their claim to the public realm. As usual, drivers have not reacted well. In North York, the struggle to civilize the street has become especially vicious. Sketchy neighbourhood groups have sprung up to fight change and even the mayor has tried to derail an environmental assessment, Reimagining Yonge, now underway. This stretch of Yonge is a six-lane expressway that also functions as an extension of Highway 401 even though it wasn't designed as such. In the meantime, dozens of towers residential, commercial and corporate have remade what was once a lowrise borough north of Toronto into a density hub where thousands live, work and play. These people are now demanding more than a life confined to the edges of a traffic torrent that degrades their community as it divides it in half. It's essential we start to think of Yonge as a main street not a highway, insists Councillor John Filion, whose Ward 23, Willowdale, encompasses much of Yonge between Sheppard and Finch. Right now it has very little in the way of character or soul or connective tissue. Can you think of any other area in Toronto where you'd go for a walk along a six-lane highway? People are looking for a place that has more of a community feel to it. I think that's vital to the future of the neighbourhood. According to Filion, the problems go back to the days of Mel Lastman, mayor of North York from 1973 until 1997, when he left to become first chief magistrate of the amalgamated city. Lastman was the first to promote the idea of a North York downtown. During his rule, enormous growth occurred along this part of Yonge office towers, hotels, condos, the usual. But that's as far as it went. Mel Lastman got it half right, Filion argues. He was ahead of his time in terms of creating a subcentre, but there was no thought given to what it was going to be like to live there or to how it was going to work. The streetscape has been deteriorating for years and we can't attract new business without cleaning up the area. My primary aim is to expand its pedestrian focus. In "The Streets of Toronto" Christopher Hume takes an in-depth look at how our city's streets have evolved. For almost a century we've been told they belong to cars and trucks. But that's all starting to change. The root of the problem lies in this confusion of roles. While Lastman was busy encouraging massive development, Yonge was turned into a highway and entrance ramp to the 401. Every weekday morning, southbound traffic waiting on Yonge to turn left onto the eastbound 401 backs up for blocks. It's absolutely ridiculous, Filion says. I would say it will be the main local issue in the next provincial election. The province has dragged its heels on this for years. For its part, Queen's Park rejects any suggestion that it's responsible for what happens on Yonge. Building a flyover from the right lane would cost $40 to $50 million. And don't even think of bike lanes. As Filion notes, They aren't terribly popular except with cyclists. Circumstances are different downtown where streets are narrower and densities higher. But as he rightly points out, bike lanes that don't connect with other bike lanes are unlikely to attract commuter cyclists. It's the same on Bloor, despite much higher numbers. Though Official Toronto has chosen to fight urbanization, street by street, lane by lane, it's a lost cause. Earlier this year, the Reimagining Yonge Street was dealt a blow when Councillor David Shiner (Ward 24, Willowdale), egged on by Mayor John Tory, convinced council to kill funding for the plan. But the exercise is part of a bottom-up process that can't be stopped. As always, opponents never get beyond details; in this case, their only concern is what's going to happen on Yonge with two lanes gone. They never see the larger picture. Reimagining Yonge is about transforming Toronto from a half-formed car-dependent conurbation into an unapologetically urban city, a place where people live, not one simply pass through on their way somewhere else. Toronto's Road Wars continue, but there's no doubt who must win. Christopher Humes column appears weekly. He can be reached at jcwhume4@gmail.com SHARE: When Cecelia Jane Reynolds home was torn down and turned into a parking lot at Dundas St. W. and University Ave., her belongings and her story were sealed in the pavement. The American fugitive slave from Kentucky, who died in 1909, was outlived by the foundation of her red-brick home in Toronto, along with a white porcelain pin box found at the residence and other personal items. While the Louisville native is no longer around to share her tale of being owned at birth by a prominent white family, her escape to freedom via Niagara Falls and her new life in Torontos St. Johns Ward neighbourhood, researchers Karolyn Smardz Frost and Holly Martelle are reviving her story. A two-day event, A Freedom-Seekers Toronto, runs Wednesday and Thursday at George Brown College and includes art, music and the display of artifacts from a piece of Torontos rich multicultural history. For us to move forward, it is important to learn about our past and know who we were, said Nikki Clarke, president of the Ontario Black History Society, which, along with George Brown College, is hosting the event. These stories are all relatable. These peoples courage and resilience in risking their lives for the betterment and security of their families is the same idea of our immigrants today. About 12 years ago, while researching her book in Kentucky about the slave-turned-Toronto-freedom-fighters Lucie and Thornton Blackburn, Smardz Frost stumbled upon five letters written by a woman from a prominent Louisville family, Fanny Thruston, to a Toronto woman by the name of Cecilia Jane Reynolds. Through references in the letters to Reynolds attempt to purchase back her mother and younger brother from Thrustons family, Smardz Frost figured the Toronto woman must have been a freedom-seeker who made her way to Canada through the Underground Railroad. After finishing her Governor Generals Award-winning book, Ive Got a Home in Glory Land, Smardz Frost dove into her next project to trace the life of Reynolds through archived street directories, marriage certificates, birth and death registrations, census data and tax records. Theres clue to clue to clue, Smardz Frost, who teaches at Acadia University in Nova Scotia, said of her investigation into Reynolds life. Finally, she hit the jackpot when she located Reynolds pension records, which contained a trove of documents detailing the womans life because of her 20-year fight to prove who she was and that her deceased second husband, William Larrison, had fought in the civil war. It turned out Reynolds, at 15, fled to Toronto in 1846; married Benjamin Holmes; had two stepsons; lived on the old Centre St. in the Ward; sent her stepchildren to train as barbers in Lowell, Mass.; moved briefly to Liverpool, England in the 1850s; stayed in Rochester, N.Y. in 1859 and 60 before returning to Louisville; had three kids with Holmes, all deceased as children; kept her Toronto home and rented it out before selling it in 1880s; and finally died in Kentucky in 1909. While Smardz Frost was writing her book about Reynolds, Steal Away Home, news broke in 2015 that a yearlong excavation by Infrastructure Ontario at the site of a new Toronto courthouse unearthed relics including shoes, boots, clothes, nail polish bottles and toys dating from before the 1930s or 1940s, when old homes were demolished to give way to the parking lot. Smardz Frost was thrilled with the finds and worked with Martelle, who was licensed by the province to take charge of the dig, to complete Reynolds story, with physical evidence. It was the most exciting time of my career, said Martelle, who has more than 20 years of archeology experience. The site was very well-known for early Black settlement. Martelle and her team would spend a year to do testing on the site, wash and process the artifacts in the collection, which she said were superbly preserved because whoever demolished the old homes simply took the buildings down along with whatever the residents left behind and sealed it underneath, instead of discarding the items. They completed the written record, said Martelle. These artifacts help tell the history of people who were not written or recognized in history. Smardz Frost agreed: I would like to use Cecilias life and my book as the vehicle through which we can provide the infrastructure about the Black community in Toronto that people didnt know about. Admission to A Freedom-Seekers Toronto is free. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at George Browns Lucie and Thornton Blackburn Conference Centre on Cooperage St. Correction October 17, 2017: This article was edited from a previous version that misstated researcher Holly Martelles given name. SHARE: Critical thinking is the principal lesson were taught at school, for which we can thank teachers. As long as theyre in the classroom. More than 12,000 teaching staff went on strike this week, shutting down classes for roughly 300,000 students at all 24 colleges across the province. Any strike is serious business. But when it affects the public sector, hurts vulnerable students and bleeds our educational institutions, the stakes are especially high. Read more: Ontario college faculty goes on strike after final offer rejected Ontario colleges preparing for a long strike Get back to the bargaining table, students urge Ontario colleges, union Understandably, students are now sharing petitions demanding that instructors return to the negotiating table and the classroom rather than holding their studies hostage. The petitioners say they are sending a message to both sides: We pay your salaries. It is our tuition money that you are fighting over. Get back to the bargaining table, compromise, and figure it out. Or we want our money back. Its a reasonable request, but unrealistic. Critical thinking teaches us that nothing is quite so simple in labour negotiations. Both sides dig in and glare hard, each daring the other to blink first. When the power of persuasion ultimately fails, what follows is the power of pressure tactics, which is where we are today. Students pay the biggest price, which is why they are demanding refunds. Reduced revenues would hurt the colleges hard. Teachers are also going unpaid, which is tough if you arent highly paid to start. And parents are fretting that their kids are losing out. Which puts politicians under pressure. If everyone is losing out students, teachers, colleges, parents, politicians why are we continuing down a dead end? Post-secondary education is in a boom, but a bust looms in this unsustainable business model. Enrolments keep rising, with politicians trying to please parents and students by making college more accessible. That puts pressure on institutions to compete for ever more students, while restraining tuition increases, all the while minimizing salaries for professors, instructors and sessional lecturers. The more we mass produce graduates in a factory setting, while minimizing teaching inputs, the sooner our massive campus infrastructure will crumble. If teachers are merely interchangeable commodities going through the motions in the classroom, todays students will surf online to download the same old lectures. Increasingly, students and teachers are in the same boat, facing a precarious future with limited career prospects or job security. Imagine you are lecturing your class on labour economics, describing tomorrows workforce that remains on contract year after year, at the mercy of unpredictable schedules because employers demand unlimited flexibility. At a community college, that lecturer isnt reading from a case study on precarious employment. He or she is telling their own life story on the job, in the classroom. Ontarios colleges insist their proposed wage hike of 7.75 per cent over four years is comparable to other public sector workers. But an inordinate number of teachers are part-timers with partial loads who are paid an hourly wage that doesnt cover time spent marking papers or preparing lectures. They dont know from one semester to the next who or what theyll be teaching. York University is also grappling with this outdated piecework model, which prompted bitter strikes by part-timers demanding greater job security in 2015. The dirty little secret of higher education is that working conditions have hit rock bottom. OPSEU, the union representing college teachers, wants half of teaching staff hired as full-timers. That hardly seems excessive. But the union overreached by demanding a decision-making senate to oversee how each campus is run (aping an already-outdated university model for governance gridlock). Given that OPSEU cant even get its own house in order (see past columns on its own staff grievances and internecine incompetence), this union was in no position to co-manage campuses, and belatedly dropped the idea. As for college presidents, their claims of generosity toward teachers belie their own egregious greed earlier this year, when they tried to slip through pay hikes of up to 55 per cent for themselves. Back then, public pressure prompted the government to rein them in and the longer this strike drags on, the more pressure will build for the government to step in again. Whether it is curbing excessive executive salaries or ensuring greater fairness for part-time teachers, the ultimate objective is value for money and educational values. Both sides have been belabouring their rival labour agendas for too long. Time for a little more constructive critical thinking. Martin Regg Cohns political column appears Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. mcohn@thestar.ca, Twitter: @reggcohn Clarification - October 17, 2017: This article was edited from a previous version that referred to a strike by part-time instructors at the University of Toronto demanding job security in 2015. The article did not make clear that the strike was by teaching assistants. SHARE: Ontarios financial watchdog is sounding the alarm over the Liberal governments 25-per-cent cut in residential electricity rates. Auditor general Bonnie Lysyk estimates the scheme, unveiled last May, could cost Ontarians an additional $4 billion in interest charges over the next 30 years. In Lysyks latest salvo against the provincial government in her ongoing accounting dispute with Queens Park, she expressed outrage at how the hydro rebate will appear on the books. The accounting proposed by the government is wrong, said the auditor general, decrying the use of U.S. accounting standards that enable the Liberals to bankroll the rate cut through the new government-owned OPG Trust. Because the trust will have to borrow money at a higher interest rate than the province pays, Lysyk estimated there will be an extra $4 billion in charges over 30 years for a total of $39.4 billion. But that is not reflected on the provincial treasurys annual bottom line because electricity ratepayers, not taxpayers, will cover the tab. They had to come up with something that would not derail the governments promise to present balanced budgets for 2017-18 and the next few years, she said Tuesday. Energy Minister Glenn Thibeault insisted there was no fast one being pulled at all. Thibeault noted the government wanted electricity subsidies to be charged to the rate base, not the tax base, and stressed the similar accounting practices used in Alberta, Texas, New York, Minnesota, and other jurisdictions. Electricity financing should remain within the electricity system, he said. Facing a massive outcry over soaring hydro rates in many parts of the province, Premier Kathleen Wynne moved forward with generous rebates. Last Jan. 1, Wynne removed the 8-per-cent provincial portion of the harmonized sales tax from electricity bills. That was followed by an additional 17-per-cent cut that took effect over the summer. The government has justified borrowing money to pay ratepayers by likening it to refinancing a mortgage to enjoy lower payments over a longer time. Thibeault, who will unveil Ontarios long-term energy plan on Oct. 26, said the hydro rate cut merely smoothes the costs of those investments out over a longer period of time. His comments came after Lysyk tabled a 53-page special report on the Liberals plan. Her concern echoes that of provinces financial accountability officer who predicted, in May, it could cost the province $45 billion over the next 29 years by saving ratepayers $24 billion for a $21-billion net expense. But a 56-page KPMG analysis prepared for the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) concluded the governments accounting was fine. The government also rejected some of the base assumptions in Lysyks report. Since 2003, nearly $70 billion has been invested in the electricity system, including more than $37 billion in electricity generation to ensure the system is clean and reliable, the Ministry of Energy said. The majority of the provinces electricity generators operate under 20-year contracts. Despite the reports assertion that it is not at all certain if these generating assets will be operating beyond their contract lives, third-party experts have confirmed that many of these generators will be able to continue to operate, it said. This means that generating assets are expected to have ongoing, useful life and benefit future ratepayers by reducing the need to finance the development of new generating assets. As well, the province said the so-called peak debt, or the total borrowing costs, over the 30-year lifespan of the Fair Hydro Plan has been adjusted downward from $28 billion in March to around $20 billion. Lysyk has been sparring with the government over accounting practices for more than a year. The original actuarial dispute stemmed from a difference of opinion over whether the government should include, in its bottom line, its share of assets from the teachers and public servants pension funds it co-sponsors. A government-appointed panel of accounting experts sided with Queens Park in determining the pension assets should be allowed to count toward the bottom line. But Progressive Conservative Leader Patrick Brown accused the Liberals of using shady accounting methods and cooking the books for politically motivated reasons. Brown said the hydro cut was a re-election ploy to help the Grits in the June 7, 2018 campaign. NDP MPP Peter Tabuns (Toronto Danforth) said Lysyk has exposed an Enron-style accounting scheme whose sole purpose is to hide this truth from the public. The auditor general has confirmed that Kathleen Wynnes hydro borrowing scheme will cost Ontarians $40 billion, and that Kathleen Wynne will charge families $4 billion, just for the accounting tricks shes using to cover up just how bad this plan is, said Tabuns. Read more about: SHARE: A top Dalton McGuinty aide dismissed concerns the energy minister was ignoring legal orders to disclose documents on the axing of two gas plants as political bull----, says the former head Ontarios civil service. The bombshell testimony from one-time cabinet secretary Peter Wallace, now city manager for Toronto, came Monday at the criminal trial of David Livingston, chief of staff to McGuinty during his last months as premier. It was summer 2012 and McGuintys minority Liberals were under intense pressure from an opposition-controlled legislative committee to produce secret emails shedding light on reasons behind the controversial cancellations of the power plants in Oakville and Mississauga before the 2011 election. There was a stark contrast between voluminous boxes of documents revealed by energy ministry bureaucrats and the Ontario Power Authority, compared with no disclosure from the ministers office, Wallace told Crown attorney Tom Lemon. The energy minister at the time was London lawyer Chris Bentley, although Wallace, cabinet secretary from 2011 to 2014, did not mention him by name. I was acutely concerned I have a premiers office and a ministers office that may not be in compliance with a legally binding order, Wallace continued, noting he was not sure if the political staff has not fully understoodor ignored the demand. Out of an abundance of caution, Wallace said he then had senior legal counsel in the cabinet office prepare three memos he would use to brief Livingston on the governments responsibilities. The memos, presented in court, include an explanation of the legislative committees legal authority to compel the production of government records and responsibilities to retain proper records on official decisions. I dont think he found the conversation particularly useful, Wallace told court as Livingston watched from several metres away with his legal team. His language was thats political bull----. Wallace described the conversation as tense. Livingston and former deputy chief of staff Laura Miller are charged with breach of trust, mischief in relation to data and misuse of a computer system in the alleged wiping of hard drives in the McGuinty premiers office before Premier Kathleen Wynne took power in February 2013. The defendants have pleaded not guilty. They face up to 10 years in prison. McGuinty was not under investigation and co-operated with police. Wallace said he and other bureaucrats know we sent them an enormous number of documents, making it not credible for the ministers office to deny having emails requested by the committee of MPPs. Crown prosecutors have not yet produced evidence of any recovered emails in the trial, which is slated to continue into November. Ontario Provincial Police obtained search warrants and seized hard drives used in the premiers office. The Progressive Conservatives and New Democrats accused the McGuinty government of cancelling the natural gas-fired power plants, which faced local opposition, at taxpayer expense to save Liberal seats in the 2011 election and allege a cover-up of the real reasons. Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk has reported the cancellations, and moving the plants to the Sarnia and Napanee areas, could cost up to $1.1 billion over 20 years. McGuinty has previously said the two plants were scrapped because they were located too close to residential areas. Wallace is back on the witness stand Tuesday. Read more about: SHARE: The former head of Ontarios civil service says he never would have granted a special computer password to the McGuinty premiers office had he known it would be given to an outsider. That would not be a risk I would ever support taking, Peter Wallace, now city manager of Toronto, said at the criminal trial of two top aides to ex-premier Dalton McGuinty on Tuesday. The aides, former chief of staff David Livingston and his deputy Laura Miller, are charged with breach of trust, mischief in relation to data and misuse of a computer system in the alleged wiping of hard drives before Premier Kathleen Wynne took over from McGuinty in February 2013. Livingston, a former investment banker, and Miller have pleaded not guilty. Wallace told Crown attorney Tom Lemon he did not know at the time that Millers life partner, Peter Faist, a private information technology contractor, was brought in to wipe computer hard drives after Livingstons request for a special password was granted. The only inkling that a non-government person might be brought in was when a subordinate noted Livingston had mentioned the possibility, added Wallace, who as cabinet secretary from 2011 to 2014 was Ontarios highest-ranking civil servant. I placed no weight on this whatsoever, Wallace testified. He said the idea was so far beyond the norms in a government where only authorized IT staff or private contractors hired with security clearance would be allowed to perform such tasks. Wallace said he had deep concerns political staff in the government were not producing documents ordered by a legislative committee probing reasons behind the controversial cancellations of two gas-fired power plants in Oakville and Mississauga before the 2011 election. Thats why an email was sent to Livingston in late January 2013 warning of the legal obligation to save records on the decision. Wallace said he had already warned Livingston the only type of organization that doesnt keep any records is a criminal organization a line the career bureaucrat worked into his testimony three times Tuesday. Defence lawyers say Livingston simply wanted the password granted to clear personal and other non-sensitive information from hard drives before the keys to the premiers office were turned over to Wynnes team. With his business background, Livingston was also concerned sensitive information about talks to compensate the builders of the gas plants would become public. That could prejudice Ontarios position, Livingston lawyer Brian Gover said while cross-examining Wallace. Wallace said he shared that concern but added MPPs on the legislative committee could have been asked not to make those details public after receiving documents. He disputed Govers assertions based on the former premiers remarks to OPP investigators that the McGuinty premiers office handled a lot of business verbally in meetings and conversations instead of in emails. Reading from the police interview, Gover told court McGuinty said his office had an overwhelming oral nature. I was, frankly, shocked by that, Wallace replied, insisting many briefing notes were prepared for the premier by cabinet office policy analysts. I simply, flatly, disagree with that. Wallace returns to the witness stand Wednesday. Read more about: SHARE: PHILADELPHIAU.S. Sen. John McCain jabbed Monday night at unnamed pushers of isolationist politics, saying at his National Constitution Center Liberty Medal ceremony in Philadelphia that abandoning Americas role as an international leader is unpatriotic. The six-term Republican senator from Arizona made the remarks after receiving the award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the country. In addition to recalling his more than two decades of Navy service and his imprisonment in a Vietnam prisoner of war camp, McCain took a moment to go a step further than the nights other speakers, who lamented what many described as a fractured political climate. To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems, he said, is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. He continued: We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil. None of the speakers, who included former Vice-President Joe Biden, mentioned any current or former government officials during their remarks. But many referenced a time when bipartisanship namely, the friendship between McCain and the Democrat Biden wasnt out of the ordinary. We often argued sometimes passionately, McCain said of himself and the former vice-president. But we believed in each others patriotism and the sincerity of each others convictions. We believed in the institution we were privileged to serve in. McCain joined the Navy in 1958 and rose to the rank of captain during his 22 years of service. In 1967, his plane was shot down over Hanoi, Vietnam, during a bombing mission, and he spent years in a Vietnamese prisoner of war camp. He recently revealed that hes fighting brain cancer. Read more: John McCain says Trump has never apologized for his not a war hero insult Trump slams McCain, McConnell over health care in radio interview John McCain says he cant in good conscience vote for GOP health bill, leaving it all but dead SHARE: RALEIGH, N.C.Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl made a last-minute argument Tuesday that President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his criticism of the soldier preventing him from receiving a fair sentence on charges he endangered comrades in Afghanistan. Lawyers for Bergdahl, who pleaded guilty this week to charges that could send him to prison for life, cited a news conference this week in which Trump indicated he stands by his campaign-trail criticism of Bergdahl. They asked to have the case dismissed. While running for president, Trump repeatedly called Bergdahl a traitor and suggested harsh punishments. Read more: Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl pleads guilty to desertion, misbehaviour Asked about the Bergdahl case on Monday, Trump first said he wouldnt comment. Then he added: But I think people have heard my comments in the past. Bergdahls lawyers say the remark is especially problematic now that Trump is commander in chief. President Trump stands at the pinnacle of an unbroken chain of command that includes key participants in the remaining critical steps of the case, the defence wrote. The judge overseeing the case, Army Col. Jeffery R. Nance, previously called Trumps campaign statements about Bergdahl disturbing and disappointing, but ruled they didnt amount to unlawful command influence. The judges February ruling noted that Trumps disparaging comments were made before he was president. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl pleaded guilty Monday to charges that he endangered comrades by walking away from a remote post in Afghanistan in 2009. The 31-year-old Bergdahl entered the plea without a deal with prosecutors to limit his punishment. (The Associated Press Nance wrote that the statements of a private citizen, even if running for President, cannot be unlawful command or influence. The judge told the defence then that they could renew their motion if there were new developments surrounding Trump. White House media staff didnt immediately respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday. Bergdahl, whos from Hailey, Idaho, pleaded guilty Monday to desertion and misbehaviour before the enemy for walking off his remote post in Afghanistan in 2009. He was captured and held by the Taliban and its allies for five years. Bergdahl admitted guilt without striking a deal with prosecutors to limit his sentence, meaning that his punishment has been left up to Nance. He faces up to life in prison at sentencing starting next week. President Barack Obama brought him home in 2014 in a swap for five Taliban prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, saying the U.S. does not leave its service members on the battlefield. Republicans roundly criticized Obama, and Trump went further while campaigning for president, repeatedly calling Bergdahl a dirty, rotten traitor who deserved to be executed by firing squad or thrown out of a plane without a parachute. Bergdahl, 31, has said he walked away from his post with the intention of reaching other commanders and drawing attention to what he saw as problems with his unit. Read more about: SHARE: Sometime within the next few months, the heavens will come crashing down. Tiangong 1, which translates to Heavenly Palace, is Chinas first space laboratory, launched in September 2011, serving as a prototype for a permanent space station that it aims to eventually build and launch. But six years after it first went into orbit, the 8-ton laboratory is soon expected to meet a fiery and uncontrolled end, hurtling down to Earth and crashing somewhere anywhere on the planet. In September 2016, Chinese officials confirmed that they had lost control of the space lab and that it would crash into Earth sometime in the latter half of 2017. In May, China told the United Nations that the lab would re-enter Earth between October and April 2018. Much of the space lab, which measures 34 feet in length, is expected to burn up during its re-entry. But Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist from Harvard University, told the Guardian that pieces weighing up to 220 pounds could make it to the Earths surface. Where exactly the craft will fall is anyones guess. Even slight changes in atmospheric conditions can alter the landing site from one continent to the next, McDowell told the Guardian. You really cant steer these things, he said. Even a couple of days before it re-enters, we probably wont know better than six or seven hours, plus or minus, when its going to come down. Not knowing when its going to come down translates as not knowing where its going to come down. Uncontrolled crashes of larger spacecraft, while rare, have happened before. The Soviet Salyut 7 space station crashed to Earth in 1991, while NASAs Skylab space station fell over Western Australia in 1979. China launched Tiangong 2, its second experimental station, in September 2016. China is aiming to have a permanently manned space station in orbit by 2020. The 2011 launch of Tiangong 1 was seen by some as a potent political symbol that marked an important step forward in Chinas expanding space program. It was regarded as a geopolitically significant event, part of Chinas broader space program through which it wants to assert its emergence as a new superpower. Tiangong 1 ended its service in March after it had comprehensively fulfilled its historical mission, Wu Ping, deputy director of the manned space engineering office, was quoted as saying at a news conference by Xinhua, Chinas state news agency. The lab had served as a base for space experiments for four and a half years, two years longer than originally planned. It hosted two three-person crews, including Chinas first female astronaut, Liu Yang, in 2012. The station has been descending gradually since its service ended. More recently, it has started to fall faster, reaching the denser layers of Earths atmosphere, the Guardian reported. The odds that the crashing craft will damage aviation or ground activities is very low, China told the United Nations, adding that it would closely monitor Tiangong 1s descent. For spacecraft that remain in control, scientists carefully guide their re-entry to a place on Earth called the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility, a 2.5-mile-deep spot in the ocean known as the spacecraft cemetery about 3,000 miles off the eastern coast of New Zealand and 2,000 miles north of Antarctica. As of June 2016, more than 263 spacecraft had crashed at the cemetery since 1971, according to Popular Science. Read more about: SHARE: MOGADISHU, SOMALIA Anguished families scoured Somalias capital Tuesday in search of scores still missing from Saturdays bomb blast that killed more than 300 people in one of the worlds deadliest attacks in years. Sitting outside a hospital mortuary, Hodan Ali quietly looked for her missing brother by showing people his photo on the screen of her mobile phone. Fifty-year-old taxi driver Abdiqadir Ali was last seen Saturday on his way to a hotel to pick up a client just before the massive explosion on a busy street. Read more: After bombing, Somalia fears renewed onslaught from al-Shabab extremist group Photos: Deadliest attack in Somalia The most powerful bomb blast ever witnessed in Somalia's capital has killed more than 300 people, with hundreds more injured. It is the deadliest single attack in the Horn of Africa nation. (The Associated Press) Death toll rises to over 300 after deadliest single attack in Somalia history Ali, a mother of four, said she had visited most of Mogadishus hospitals but neither she nor other family members found any sign of him. I am about to give up, she said in a soft voice, tears running over her veil. Nothing is more painful than not knowing the whereabouts of your loved ones, whether life or death. Across Mogadishu, Somalias flag flew at half-mast, marking three days of national mourning. Mayor Thabit Abdi called for a citywide march on Wednesday in honour of the victims and as a show of defiance. We must liberate this city which is awash with graves, Abdi said. The death toll of 302 is expected to rise. Nearly 70 people were missing, based on accounts from relatives, said police Capt. Mohamed Hussein. My son has gone missing since the day of the attack. I would be very lucky if I had a portion of his body, Abdulkadir Mohamud said, breaking down in tears. I do not have even his flesh. Please bring my son back. With nearly 400 people wounded, with some burned beyond recognition, international aid arrived to help overwhelmed hospitals. A United States military plane landed in Mogadishu with medical and humanitarian aid supplies. Dozens of critically injured have been airlifted to Turkey for treatment. A medical team from Djibouti arrived for more evacuations, and neighbouring Kenya said it would evacuate 31 people and deliver 11 tons of medical supplies. Somalias government has blamed the attack on the al-Shabab extremist group, which has not commented. A huge explosion from a truck bomb killed almost 200 people in Somalia's capital, police said Saturday, as shaken residents called it the most powerful blast they'd heard in years. (The Associated Press) But analysts said there is little doubt that Africas deadliest Islamic extremist group carried out the bombing. No other group in Somalia has the capacity to put together a bomb of this size, in this nature, said Matt Bryden, a security consultant on the Horn of Africa. Analysts have suggested that al-Shabab, an ally of Al Qaeda, may have avoided taking responsibility because it did not want to be blamed for the deaths of so many civilians. Al-Shabab has waged war in Somalia for more than a decade, often targeting high-profile areas of the capital. Earlier this year, it vowed to step up attacks after both the Trump administration and Somalias recently elected Somali-American president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, announced new military efforts against the extremists. Mohamed vowed to wipe them out within two years. The U.S. military has stepped up drone strikes and other efforts this year against al-Shabab, which is also fighting a 22,000-strong African Union force in the country. Saturdays explosion further battered an impoverished country left fragile by decades of conflict, and it raised more doubts over the governments ability to secure the seaside capital of more than 2 million people. In a sandy cemetery at one Mogadishu hospital, mourners carried the coffin of a woman killed in the bombing. The crowd prayed in low voices under the scorching sun. The woman died Sunday of her wounds, a day after her husband. They had been travelling on a crowded street when the truck detonated nearby. God, please bring those who killed both my father and aunt before our eyes or book them to justice, Zakariye Abdirisaq said, wiping his eyes. He squatted by the fresh grave, putting his hands to the earth and then to his lips, one by one. Then he prayed. International condemnation has poured in, with the United States calling the attack cowardly and the United Nations special envoy to Somalia calling it revolting. Michael Keating said the U.N. and African Union were supporting the Somali governments response with logistical support, medical supplies and expertise. The U.N. Security Council stood in silent tribute to the victims Tuesday and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asked to meet with Somali minister Abdullahi Hamud to personally extend his condolences. Hamud, who is minister of state in the prime ministers office, is at U.N. headquarters in New York for Africa Week activities. After three days, many family members of those still missing are giving up. Afrah Ibrahim, 30, searched for clues of what happened to his sister by using a stick to pick through clothes of victims buried in a cemetery. He did not find any worn by his sister. Lowering his head in anguish, he said, I am done. SHARE: HONOLULUA federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trumps latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor. It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by the president to be thwarted, in whole or in part, by the courts. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson issued the ruling after the ban on a set of mostly Muslim countries was challenged by the state of Hawaii, which warned that the restrictions would separate families and undermine the recruiting of diverse college students. Read more: Trump announces new restrictions as 90-day travel ban expires Trump announces new restrictions as 90-day travel ban expires After Pulse shooting, Trump tweeted about travel ban. In wake of Las Vegas, White House wont discuss gun policy White House spokesperson Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the ruling dangerously flawed and said it undercuts the presidents efforts to keep the American people safe. The Justice Department said it will quickly appeal. At issue was a ban, announced in September and set to go into effect early Wednesday, on travellers from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, along with some Venezuelan government officials and their families. The Trump administration said the ban was based on an assessment of each countrys security situation and willingness to share information with the U.S. Watson, appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling against Trumps previous ban. The latest version plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation, Watson wrote. The judges ruling applies only to the six Muslim-majority countries on the list. It does not affect the restrictions against North Korea or Venezuela, because Hawaii did not ask for that. This is the third time Hawaii has gone to court to stop President Trump from issuing a travel ban that discriminates against people based on their nation of origin or religion, Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said in a statement. Today is another victory for the rule of law. Hawaii argued the updated ban was a continuation of Trumps campaign call for a ban on Muslims, despite the addition of two countries without a Muslim majority. Watson noted that Hawaii had argued Trump did not back down from that call, listing in the ruling a series of June tweets in which (Trump) complained about how the Justice Department had submitted a watered down, politically correct version to the Supreme Court. Other courts that weighed the travel ban have cited Trumps comments about banning Muslims, including the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Virginia and a federal judge in Maryland. Watson also referred to a Trump campaign statement in his previous ruling. His Tuesday ruling said the new ban, like its predecessor, fails to show that nationality alone makes a person a greater security risk to the U.S. The categorical restrictions on entire populations of men, women and children, based upon nationality, are a poor fit for the issues regarding the sharing of public-safety and terrorism-related information that the president identifies, Watson wrote. He said the ban is inconsistent in the way some countries are included or left out. For example, Iraq failed to meet the security benchmark but was omitted from the ban. Somalia met the information-sharing benchmark but was included. Judge Watsons ruling makes clear that we are a nation of laws, no matter what this administration may try to do, Hawaiis U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said in a statement. There is a place here for peaceful immigrants from every corner of the world: Spain, Syria, Sudan, or Singapore. There is no place here for discrimination or xenophobia. Watson found fault with what sorts of visitors are barred. For instance, all tourists and business travellers from Libya are excluded from the U.S., but student visitors were allowed. The judge said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order blocking the ban should be extended. It comes as other courts weigh challenges to the ban. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland are challenging the order in front of the same federal judge in Seattle who struck down Trumps initial ban in January. That ban aimed mostly at Muslim-majority countries led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Trump revised the ban, Hawaii challenged that version, too, and Watson agreed it discriminated on the basis of nationality and religion. A subsequent U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate restrictions against Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and against all refugees. Hawaii then successfully challenged the governments definition of which relatives of people already living in the U.S. would be allowed into the country, and Watson ordered the list expanded. Read more about: SHARE: TALLAHASSEE, FLA.Citing past clashes and protests, Florida Gov. Rick Scott on Monday declared a state of emergency in advance of a speech white nationalist Richard Spencer is scheduled to give at the University of Florida. The states Republican governor warned in an executive order Monday that a threat of a potential emergency is imminent in Alachua County, in north Florida. Spencer is slated to speak at the campus on Thursday and his pending appearance has already sparked protests in the university town. Spencer participated in a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that led to deadly violence in August. Scotts executive order will allow local law-enforcement authorities to partner with state and other law-enforcement agencies to provide security for the event. The university has already said it expects to spend $500,000 on security. Read more: White nationalist Richard Spencer leads march in Charlottesville to defend Lee statue White nationalist groups are planning to be more active than ever after Charlottesville violence The governor is also activating the Florida National Guard to help with security if it is needed. Scott said he declared the emergency after discussing Spencers speech with Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell. We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority, Scott said in a statement. This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe. Richard Spencer said the emergency declaration was flattering but most likely overkill. Im not a hurricane or an invading army, at least not literally, he said during a telephone interview Monday. However, Spencer expressed concern that the emergency declaration could be used as a pretext for blocking his speech. He noted that Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe had declared a state of emergency on the day of the Charlottesville rally before Spencer and others could speak. That was basically a means for suppressing the rally, Spencer claimed. When he issued the declaration, McAuliffe had said via his Twitter account that he did it in order to aid state response to violence at the Charlottesville rally. University of Florida officials said it was the violence in Virginia that led them to reject a request from Spencer and his National Policy Institute, a white nationalist think-tank, to allow him to speak in September. After they threatened to sue, school officials said they would try to accommodate Spencer if he renewed his request for a different date. University of Florida President Kent Fuchs earlier this month asked students to stay away from the campus event. He wrote in an email that Spencer and his group seek only to provoke a reaction. Darnell said Scotts executive order was not intended to alarm anyone, but to make sure that her office has the resources and equipment to help us prepare for violence or widespread property damage. Darnell said currently they are expecting both protesters and counterprotesters to show up in connection to Spencers appearance. We are hoping this is a non-event, Darnell said. We are hoping this will go very smoothly and peacefully. But in the reality of this world we have to be well prepared. SHARE: PENSACOLA, FLA.A 325-pound Florida woman is charged with killing her 9-year-old cousin by sitting on the child as punishment. Veronica Green Posey, 64, was arrested and charged with homicide and cruelty toward a child, The Pensacola News Journal reported. The Escambia County Sheriffs Office report identified Posey as the girls cousin. Paramedics and deputies responded to the familys Pensacola home following a 911 call Saturday. Posey told deputies she sat on Dericka Lindsay as discipline for being out of control. During the punishment, Dericka told Posey and two other adult relatives, who are identified in the report as the girls parents, that she couldnt breathe. When Posey got up, Dericka wasnt breathing. Authorities said Posey called 911 and started CPR on the child. The arrest report said Grace Joan Smith, 69, and James Edmund Smith, are charged with child neglect. Grace Smith called Posey, who is her niece, to her house to help with disciplining the girl, according to the report. She told investigators that Posey hit the girl with a ruler and metal pipe before the child ran to an armchair. James Smith told investigators that Posey sat on the girl for about 10 minutes before she complained she couldnt breathe. She stayed on the chair for an additional two minutes before getting up, he said. Mike Carroll, secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families, issued a statement that called the childs death appalling. He said the agency will work with the sheriffs office to hold those responsible for her death accountable. As the family has a prior interaction with the child welfare system, a thorough quality assurance review will be conducted to review all prior interactions this family has had with the child welfare system, the statement said. Posey was released Monday on $125,000 (U.S.) bail. The Smiths remained in jail, with Grace Smiths bond set at $75,000 and James Smiths bond at $50,000. Escambia County jail records didnt list an attorney for Posey or the Smiths. SHARE: On Friday afternoon, journalist Sandra Muller turned to Twitter to recall a humiliating and inappropriate sexual come-on from a powerful French executive. You have big breasts. You are my type of woman. I will make you orgasm all night, she quoted him as having said, adding the hashtag #BalanceTonPorc, or Expose Your Pig. By Tuesday, tens of thousands of Frenchwomen had heeded that call, posting disturbing accounts of sexual harassment and abuse, although most stopped short of identifying their harassers. This response to the scandal engulfing Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein was akin to the Twitter outpouring in the United States and elsewhere under the hashtag #MeToo, inspired in part by a tweet from actress Alyssa Milano. In France, however, where a chauvinistic culture has long enabled powerful men to misbehave with impunity, the social media debate may push forward changes not only in the culture but also in the law. Proposals are under discussion to fine men for aggressive catcalling or lecherous behaviour toward women in public, to extend the statute of limitations in cases of sexual assault involving minors, and to create a new age ceiling under which minors cannot legally consent to a sexual relationship. Marlene Schiappa, a feminist and writer who is Frances junior minister for gender equality, said Monday that the government was considering precisely how to define street harassment and how much to fine. The government would consult legal professionals on its proposals and hold workshops for citizens across the country, she said, aiming to put measures before parliament next year. Speaking to RTL radio, Schiappa said she had been deeply struck by the response to the #BalanceTonPorc hashtag. We all have stories of harassment and assault, she said, adding: One of my best friends said something with this hashtag that she had never told our group of friends. This hashtag, with the barrier created by a screen, can help people speak out, and I think that it is truly beneficial. Some commentators argued that sexual harassment accusations would be better handled in a courtroom than on social media. Denouncing sexual harassment on a social network with a hashtag isnt the appropriate place at all, Christophe Noel, a labour lawyer, warned on France Info. It can rebound on the accuser and create an open door to excesses and defamation. Muller, the journalist who first tweeted the Expose Your Pig hashtag, said in a phone interview Tuesday that although she was overwhelmed by the hundreds of reactions she had received, she didnt want Twitter to become a tribunal. Im not a judge, she said. Two lawyers for the executive Muller named in her tweet demanded Tuesday that she delete it; one of the lawyers, Nicolas Benoit, called her accusation a case of defamation but declined to comment further. The executive did not respond to requests for an interview. In France, the Weinstein affair has recalled the case of Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former International Monetary Fund chief and one-time presidential contender who was arrested in New York in 2011 and accused of assaulting a hotel housekeeper. Those charges were dropped, but helped dent a long-standing French reluctance to breach the privacy of public figures, no matter their sexual transgressions. Thousands of women are identifying themselves as victims of sexual harassment or assault following a call to action propelled by Alyssa Milano in the wake of Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein's downfall over of allegations of sexual misconduct. (The Associated Pre Sandrine Rousseau, a former leader of the French Green Party and leading advocate for victims of sexual harassment, said the Weinstein case had particular resonance in France because women had suffered in silence for so long. Rousseau was one of a dozen women who in 2016 accused a Green Party legislator, Denis Baupin, of sexual harassment, saying he had pushed her up against a wall and kissed her against her will. Baupin, who resigned as vice president of Frances National Assembly, denied the accusations and the case was dropped on the grounds that too much time had elapsed. DSK was the first blow, and Baupin the second one, Rousseau said in an interview, referring to the initials of Dominique Strauss-Kahn. The Weinstein revelations have had a strong echo in France, because what used to be seen as naughtiness is now being considered as sexual harassment. Rousseau said Expose Your Pig was a good start, but words needed to be translated into action, and successful legal cases remained rare. According to a 2016 study by IFOP, a leading pollster, just 65 of the 1,048 sexual harassment lawsuits in France in 2014 led to a conviction. But the atmosphere may be changing. In December, Georges Tron, who was a mayor and a government official under former president Nicolas Sarkozy, will stand trial on accusations of rape and sexual harassment after two women said he had assaulted them in a locked room in the town hall when he was mayor of Draveil, south of Paris. Tron resigned in 2011 over the accusations, which he denies. In Europe, several countries have moved in recent years to criminalize sexual harassment, including Portugal, where the left-leaning government in 2015 made verbal sexual abuse a crime with a fine of up to 120 euros ($142). Belgium has also moved against sexual harassment and in 2014 introduced penalties including a jail sentence of up to one year for remarks intending to express contempt for a person because of his or her gender. In a sign of how French mores have evolved, President Emanuel Macron on Sunday announced that he had begun the procedure to strip Weinstein of Frances highest award, the Legion of Honor, which he had received in 2012 for his work promoting foreign cinema in the United States. Brigitte Macron, the French first lady, has congratulated victims of sexual harassment or violence for sharing their stories, and she expressed hope that something positive could come out of the bad of the Weinstein affair. Several French actresses are among the more than two dozen women who have stepped forward with accusations against Weinstein, among them Florence Darel, Judith Godreche, and Lea Seydoux, who starred in the James Bond film Spectre. Seydoux wrote in the Guardian newspaper that when she first encountered Weinstein, he asked her to meet him for a drink and that he invited her to his hotel room. It was hard to say no because hes so powerful, she wrote. We were talking on the sofa when he suddenly jumped on me and tried to kiss me. I had to defend myself. Hes big and fat, so I had to be forceful to resist him. I left his room, thoroughly disgusted. She added: I wasnt afraid of him, though. Because I knew what kind of man he was all along. Read more about: SHARE: BAGHDADIraqi troops completed their takeover of all oilfields held by Kurdish separatists on Tuesday, in a push by the Baghdad government to secure control of all disputed areas claimed by Kurds and suppress their independence movement. The swift military operation, aided by an agreement with a Kurdish faction to withdraw peacefully from the vital city of Kirkuk and surrounding oil-rich areas, dealt a blow to Kurdish dreams of independence from Iraq. The two-day takeover also strengthened the position of the Iraqi prime minister, Haider al-Abadi, who outmanoeuvred Kurdish leaders. Kurdish fighters appeared to be in headlong retreat on Tuesday. A senior commander of Kurdish forces defending oilfields outside the city of Dibis, about 50 kilometres northwest of Kirkuk, said in a telephone interview that his troops had pulled out late Monday night as Iraqi troops closed in. The commander, who asked not to be identified because he was not authorized to speak with journalists, said Kurdish forces, known as peshmerga, had received orders to leave Dibis from superiors in Irbil, the capital of the autonomous region. Kurdish fighters and Iraqi government troops are both part of the U.S.-led coalition battling Daesh, also known as Islamic State, militants in Iraq. The United States has not interfered with the government assault on Kurdish-held areas. The coalition and the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad urged both sides to avoid violence and focus fighting the militants. Kurds took over disputed areas adjacent to their autonomous region after Iraqi troops fled an assault by Daesh in 2014. Those areas were included in a referendum last month in which the Kurdish region voted overwhelmingly for independence, angering both Baghdad and Washington. Read more: Kurds withdraw as Iraqi forces push into disputed city of Kirkuk Canadian troops safe after allied Iraqi, Kurdish forces open fire on each other near Kirkuk Border reported closed between Iran and Iraqs Kurdish region The United States condemned the vote, saying it would foment ethnic conflict, destabilize Iraq and undermine the fight against Daesh. Baghdad took steps to isolate the landlocked Kurdish region after the referendum, with the help of neighbouring Iran and Turkey, and then launched the assault on oil-rich Kirkuk province early Monday. U.S. troops were in the province but had no role in the fighting, said Col. Ryan Dillon, the spokesperson for the coalition in Baghdad. The loss of the oilfields is devastating for the Kurdish regional government. Oil from Kirkuk province, pumped via a pipeline through Kurdish territory and into Turkey, has provided about half of the Kurdish regions oil revenue. In all, the region has been pumping about 550,000 barrels a day, earning about $8 billion (U.S.) annually. The Iraqi military triumph over the Kurds came as the coalition continued to battle Daesh militants clinging to a strip of desert land and the border city of Qaim, in western Anbar province near the Syrian border. Iraqi forces, in some instances aided by Kurdish fighters, have steadily driven the militants from most of Iraq since they took over nearly a third of the country in 2014. In Syria, the coalition said allied forces had driven the militants from most of the city of Raqqa, the capital of the militants self-proclaimed caliphate in Syria, and were closing in on the remainder. Read more about: SHARE: CHARCO ABAJO, Puerto RicoWhen Hurricane Maria swept away the bridge that led in and out of Charco Abajo, a remote village in the mountainous inland of Puerto Rico, Carlos Ocasio and Pablo Perez Medina decided that they could not wait for help to arrive. When the wind and rain calmed, the welder and the retired handyman climbed off the edge of the bridge and jumped down onto a pile of debris. They crossed the Vivi River, whose waters had risen to their chests, and walked several miles to a hardware store, where they bought a cable, a metal harness and wheels. They built a pulley that now spans the gap where the bridge once was, and attached a shopping cart, after removing its legs and wheels, which they have been using to transfer food, water and supplies across the divide. Though aid groups began to arrive a week later, the two men, both 60 years old, raised a sign to describe how it felt in Charco Abajo immediately after the storm. It reads Campamento de los Olvidados, Spanish for Camp of the Forgotten. Nearly a month after Maria devastated this island commonwealth, life remains a struggle. Even as some assistance has arrived, residents have learned to improvise without power or running water, especially those who live in remote areas, who waited the longest for help from emergency responders and for whom recovery is the furthest off. The winding roads that once paved a lush, tree-lined route from San Juan, the capital, to Utuado now appear postapocalyptic. Leafless, branchless trees, denuded by Marias winds, are tangled around one another and spill out into the highway. Rock formations, once covered with vegetation, have been stripped bare. Permanently windblown palm trees look like half-shaven heads. And houses that were once tucked neatly into the hills are now roofless, irreparably damaged wrecks sliding down the sides of them. All that remains of the many wooden, one-room houses that once dotted the hills here are tall and narrow 3-sided concrete structures that were built to protect bathroom plumbing, which are now surrounded by piles of rubble. Examples of the creativity of people living in the mountains are on display across the countryside. All day and night, people who live in the mountains cluster along roadways to bathe and do laundry in places where locals have redirected water from higher up that spews out of PVC pipes. They fill empty bottles and buckets, which they use to clean their homes and flush toilets. But the situation is more fragile for some than it is for others. Read more: Puerto Rico is officially a problem for Trump. His numbers are worse than Bushs post-Katrina: Analysis MasterChef Junior contestant Evan Robinson serves up some relief for Puerto Rico The whole island is critical: Puerto Rico faces dire medical crisis after storm More than 100 bridges in Puerto Rico were damaged by Maria and 18 have been closed indefinitely, according to Ivonne Rosario, a spokesperson for Puerto Ricos transportation department. An unknown number collapsed during the storm, leaving entire communities like Charco Abajo stranded. Down a series of dirt roads that are still covered with mangled trees, fallen power lines and fibre-optic cables, Charco Abajo is home to about 120 people, mostly adults who are retired or unemployed, and a few children. At 47, Lilia Rivera hobbles at the pace of someone decades older. She speaks in a whisper because her vocal cords are partly paralyzed. And she is hypersensitive to allergens the slightest whiff of smoke, chemicals or perfume can cause her throat to close. Her remote location and health problems, caused by exposure to pesticides, have made her doubly vulnerable to Hurricane Marias destruction. At the beginning, I was asked if I wanted to leave, she said, sitting with her cane resting in her lap in her light-filled living room on a rural hillside in the Utuado municipality. But wherever I go, the environment needs to be controlled. That doesnt exist in a shelter. Stories of survival and separation dominate the feelings of hurricane survivors arriving in New York City at the end of September where many have family and friends. (The Associated Press) Despite having been trapped in their homes for three weeks and subsisting on dwindling reserves of bottled water and ready-to-eat military meals, some residents are surprisingly at ease. On the day they were visited by a reporter, they were quick to point out that other Puerto Ricans were living in worse circumstances, though it was hard to imagine whom they could have been talking about. Marilyn Luciano, who has taken on the unofficial role of village secretary, went door to door to check on her neighbours. She chatted casually about her son who lives in Florida and was recently married. Luciano said that the laid-back spirit of people who live in the mountains of Puerto Rico is what is helping them weather the storm. This is what we do, she said. Its who we are. Even Rivera and her family were hesitant to complain. She, her husband, three children and one grandchild all live together and were born and raised in Utuado. Her husband, Leonardo Medina, a retired distribution worker in the pharmaceutical industry, was busy chopping fallen trees outside their home when they were visited by a reporter. After the family lost power, he connected Riveras oxygen tank to a car battery, which is now powering it through an inverter. Medina said that if his wifes health were to begin to deteriorate, he knew that his neighbours would not hesitate to help him carry her across the river. Rivera chimed in. We Puerto Ricans are fighters and hard workers, she said, My life depends on it. SHARE: NICOLET, QUE.Im sitting in an outdoor pen with four puppies chewing my fingers, biting my hat and hair, peeing all over me in their excitement. At 8 weeks old, they are 60 centimetres from nose to tail and must weigh three kilograms or so. They growl and snap over possession of a much-chewed piece of deer skin. They lick my face like Im a long-lost friend, or a new-found toy. They are just like dogs, but not quite. They are wolves. When they are full-grown at around 50 kilograms, their jaws will be strong enough to crack moose bones. But because these wolves have been around humans since they were blind, deaf and unable to stand, they will still allow people to be near them, to do veterinary exams, to scratch them behind the ears if all goes well. Yet even the humans who raised them must take precautions. If one of the people who has bottle-fed and mothered the wolves practically since birth is injured or feels sick, she wont enter their pen to prevent a predatory reaction. No one will run to make one of these wolves chase him for fun. No one will pretend to chase the wolf. Every experienced wolf caretaker will stay alert. Because if theres one thing all wolf and dog specialists Ive talked to over the years agree on, it is this: No matter how you raise a wolf, you cant turn it into a dog. As close as wolf and dog are some scientists classify them as the same species there are differences. Physically, wolves jaws are more powerful. They breed only once a year, not twice, as dogs do. And behaviourally, wolf handlers say, their predatory instincts are easily triggered compared with those of dogs. They are more independent and possessive of food or other items. Much research suggests they take more care of their young. And they never get close to that Labrador retriever I-love-all-humans level of friendliness. As much as popular dog trainers and pet-food makers promote the inner wolf in our dogs, they are not the same. The scientific consensus is that dogs evolved from some kind of extinct wolf 15,000 or more years ago. Most researchers now think that it was not a case of snatching a pup from a den, but of some wolves spending more time around people to feed on the hunters leftovers. Gradually some of these wolves became less afraid of people, and they could get closer and eat more and have more puppies, which carried whatever DNA made the wolves less fearful. That repeated itself generation after generation until the wolves evolved to be, in non-scientific terms, friendly. Those were the first dogs. People must spend 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for weeks on end with wolf puppies just to assure them that humans are tolerable. Dog puppies will quickly attach to any human within reach. Even street dogs that have had some contact with people at the right time may still be friendly. Despite all the similarities, something is deeply different in dog genes, or in how and when those genes become active, and scientists are trying to determine exactly what it is. There are clues. Some recent research has suggested that dog friendliness may be the result of something similar to Williams syndrome, a genetic disorder in humans that causes hypersociability, among other symptoms. People with the syndrome seem friendly to everyone, without the usual limits. Another idea being studied is whether a delay in development during a critical socializing period in a dogs early life could make the difference. That delay might be discovered in the DNA, more likely in the sections that control when and how strongly genes become active, rather than in the genes themselves. This is research at its very beginning, a long shot in some ways. But this past spring and summer, two scientists travelled to Quebec to monitor the development of six wolf pups, do behaviour tests and take genetic samples. I followed them. I visited other captive wolves as well, young and adult, to get a glimpse of how a research project begins and, I confess, to get a chance to play with wolf puppies. I wanted to have some firsthand experience of the animals I write about, to look wolves in the eye, so to speak. But only metaphorically. As I was emphatically told in a training session before going into an enclosure with adult wolves, the one thing you definitely do not do is look them in the eye. Sleeping with wolves Zoo Academie is a combination zoo and training facility here on the southern bank of the St. Lawrence River, about two hours from Montreal. Jacinthe Bouchard, the owner, has trained domestic and wild animals, including wolves, all over the world. In the spring she bred two litters of wolf pups from two female wolves and one male she had at the zoo. Both mothers gave birth in the same den around the same time at the beginning of June. Then unusually bad flooding of the St. Lawrence threatened the den, so Bouchard had to remove them at about 7 days old instead of the usual 2 weeks. Then began the arduous process of socializing the pups. Bouchard and her assistant stayed day and night with the animals for the first few weeks, gradually decreasing the time spent with them after that. On June 30, Kathryn Lord and Elinor Karlsson showed up with several colleagues, including Diane Genereux, a research scientist in Karlssons lab who would do most of the hands-on genetics work. Lord is part of Karlssons team, which splits time between the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester and the Broad Institute in Cambridge. Their work combines behaviour and genetic studies of wolf and dog pups. An evolutionary biologist, Lord is an old hand at wolf mothering. She has hand-raised five litters. You have to be with them 24/7. That means sleeping with them, feeding them every four hours on the bottle, Lord said. Also, as Bouchard noted, we dont shower in the early days, to let the pups get a clear sense of who they are smelling. That is very important, because both wolves and dogs go through a critical period as puppies when they explore the world and learn who their friends and family are. With wolves, that time is thought to start at about two weeks, when the wolves are deaf and blind. Scent is everything. In dogs, it starts at about four weeks, when they can see, smell and hear. Lord thinks this shift in development, allowing dogs to use all their senses, might be key to their greater ability to connect with human beings. Perhaps with more senses in action, they are more able to generalize from tolerating individual humans with a specific scent to tolerating humans in general with a scent, sight and sound profile. When the critical period ends, wolves, and to a lesser extent dogs, experience something like the onset of stranger anxiety in human babies, when people outside the family suddenly become scary. The odds of being able to pin down genetically the shift in this crucial stage are still long, but both Lord and Karlsson think the idea is worth pursuing, as did the Broad Institute. It provided a small grant from a program designed to support scientists who take leaps into the unknown what you might call what-if research. There are two questions the scientists want to explore. One, said Karlsson: How did a wolf that was living in the forest become a dog that was living in our homes? The other is whether fear and sociability in dogs are related to the same emotions and behaviours in humans. If so, learning about dogs could provide insights to some human conditions in which social interaction is affected, like autism, or Williams syndrome, or schizophrenia. The pups at Zoo Academie were only 3 weeks old when the group of researchers arrived. I showed up the next morning and walked into a room strewn with mattresses, researchers and puppies. The humans were still groggy from a night with little sleep. Pups at that age wake up every few hours to whine and paw any warm body within reach. Wolf mothers prompt their pups to urinate and defecate by licking their abdomens. The human handlers massaged the pups for the same reason, but often the urination was unpredictable, so the main subject of conversation when I arrived was wolf pup pee. How much, on whom, from which puppy. As soon as I walked in, I was handed a puppy to cradle and bottle-feed. The puppy was like a furry larva, persistent, single-minded, with an absolute intensity of purpose. Even with fur, teeth and claws, the pups were still hungry and helpless, and I couldnt help but remember holding my own children when they took a bottle. I suspect that tiger kittens and the young of wolverines are equally irresistible. Its a mammal thing. The first part of Lords testing was to confirm her observations that the critical period for wolves starts and ends earlier than that for dogs. She set up a procedure for testing the pups by exposing them to something they could not possibly have encountered before a jiggly buzzing contraption of bird-scare rods, a tripod and a babys mobile. Each week she tested one pup, so no pup got used to it. She would put the puppy in a small arena, with low barriers for walls and with the mobile turned on. She would hide, to avoid distracting the puppy. Video cameras recorded the action, showing how the pups stumbled and later walked around the strange object, or shied away from it, or went right up to sniff it. At three weeks, the pups had been barely able to get around and were still sleeping almost every minute they were not nursing. By eight weeks, when I returned to have them gambol all over me, they were rambunctious and fully capable of exploration. The researchers will not publicize the results until observers who never saw the puppies view and analyze the videos. But Lord said wolf experts considered 8-week-old wolf puppies past the critical period. They were so friendly to me and others because they had been successfully socialized. Before and after the test, she collected urine, to measure levels of a hormone called cortisol, which rises during times of stress. If the pup in the video would not approach the jiggly monster and cortisol levels were high, that would indicate that the pup had begun to experience a level of fear of new things that could stop exploration. That would confirm the timing of the critical period. She and Karlsson and others from the lab also collected saliva for DNA testing. They planned to use a new technique called ATAC-seq that uses an enzyme to mark active genes. Then when the wolf DNA is fed into one of the advanced machines that map genomes, only the active genes would be on the map. Genereux, who was isolating and then reading DNA, said she thought it was a long shot that they would find what they wanted. She and the other researchers plan to refine their techniques to ask the questions successfully. When they grow up And what are socialized wolves like when they grow up, once the mysterious genetic machinery of the dog and wolf direct them on their separate ways? I also visited Wolf Park, in Battle Ground, Ind., a 25-hectare zoo and research facility where Dana Drenzek, the manager, and Pat Goodmann, the senior animal curator, took me around and introduced me not only to puppies they were socializing, but to some adult wolves. In the 1970s, Goodmann worked with Erich Klinghammer, the founder of Wolf Park, to develop the 24/7 model for socializing wolf puppies, exposing them to humans and then also to other wolves, so they could relate to their own kind but accept the presence and attentions of humans, even intrusive ones like veterinarians. The sprawling outdoor baby pen was filled with cots and hammocks for the volunteers, since the wolves were now 9 and 11 weeks old and living outdoors all the time. There were plastic and plywood hiding places for the wolves and plenty of toys. It looked like a toddlers playground, except for the remnants of their meals the odd deer clavicle or shin bone, and other assorted ribs, legs and shoulder bones, sometimes with skin and meat still attached. The puppies were extremely friendly with the volunteers they knew, and mildly friendly with me. The adult wolves I met were also courteous, but remote. Two older males, Wotan and Wolfgang, each licked me once and walked away. Timber, the mother of some of the pups, and tiny at 22 kilograms, also investigated me and then retired to a platform nearby. Only Renki, an older wolf who had suffered from bone cancer and now got around on three legs, let me scratch his head for a while. None was bothered by my presence. None was more than mildly interested. None seemed to realize or care about my own intense desire to see the wolves, be near them, learn about them, touch them. I saw how powerfully a visit with wolves could affect how you feel about the animals. I wanted to come back and help raise pups, and keep visiting so that I could say an adult wolf knew me in some way. But I also wondered whether it was right to keep wolves in this setting. In the wild, they travel large distances and kill their food. These wolves were all bred in captivity and that was never a possibility for them. But was I simply indulging a fantasy of getting close to nature? Was this in the same category as wanting a selfie with a captive tiger? What was best for the wolves themselves? I asked Goodmann about it. She said the park operated on the idea that getting to know the parks wolves, which had never been deprived of an earlier life in the wild, would make visitors care more for wild wolves, for conservation, for preserving a life for wild carnivores that they could never be part of. And she noted that Wolf Park operates as a combination zoo and research station. Students and others from around the world compete to work as interns, helping with everything from raising puppies to emptying the fly traps. This is the rationale for all zoos, and it was a strong argument. Then she made it stronger. She pointed out that one of the interns, Doug Smith, worked on the reintroduction of wild wolves to Yellowstone National Park. Smith has had a major role in the Wolf Restoration Project from the very beginning in 1995 and has been project leader since 1997. I reached him one morning at his office at park headquarters and asked him about his time as an intern at Wolf Park. I hand-reared four wolf pups, sleeping with them on a mattress for six weeks, he said. It had a profound effect. It was the first wolf job I ever got in my life. It turned into my career. From there he went on to study wild wolves on Isle Royale in Michigan, and then to work with L. David Mech, a pioneering wolf biologist who is senior scientist with the U.S. Geological Survey and an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota. Eventually, he went to Yellowstone to work on restoring wolves to the park. He said ethical questions about keeping wild animals in captivity are difficult, even when every effort is made to enrich their lives. But places like Wolf Park provide great value, he said, if they can get people to think about the plight of wolves across the world, and do something about it. In todays environment, with conservation on the run, nature on the run, you need them, he added. Then he said what all wolf specialists say: That even though wolf pups look like dogs, they are not, that keeping a wolf or a wolf-dog hybrid as a pet is a terrible idea. If you want a wolf, he said, get a dog. Read more about: SHARE: The AroundTown section of the Clipper-Herald is to notify the public of upcoming events and to publicize pertinent information from individuals, groups or organizations that are not for profit. PEOPLE A card shower is suggested for former Lexington resident James Weides, who will celebrate his 70th birthday on Oct. 18, 2017. Cards may be sent to James Weides, 7276 E. Buena Vista Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85250. The children of Mike Araujo are hosting a 70th birthday open house on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, in Lexington. Anyone unable to attend may send cards to Mike at 105 W. 20th, Lexington, NE 68850. HAPPENINGS Miller Dances: All Dances start at 7 p.m. Bring finger food and snacks. Questions? Call 308-325-2909. Oct. 14, John Stitt, Oct. 21. "Classic Country," Oct. 28, "Diamonds and Dust." Lexington Regional Health Center Auxiliary will meet Oct. 18 at 2:00 p.m. at the LRHC Community Health and Fitness Center. The program will be a hospital orientation for all members. New members are welcome to join. Visit the hospital gift shop in the hospital. Great gifts for all ages. A Drink for Pink fundraiser will be held on Thursday, Oct. 19 at Plum Creek Market Place from 4 to 7 p.m. The event will celebrate courageous people who have been or will be affected by breast cancer. A Self Defense Class will be offered on Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Parent-Child Center, 1001 N. Washington St., Lexington There is no cost but a canned food donation will be accepted. For more information call 308-324-2336. The Daughters of the American Revolution Board of Management meeting will be held Oct. 27, 28, 2017 at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Kearney. The Lexington FFA Chapter is selling Christmas Greenery, live wreaths and garland until Oct. 27. If anyone is interested in supporting the local FFA chapter by making a purchase, contact Timothy Potter, FFA advisor, at timothy.potter@lexschools.org We are selling until Oct. 27. The Annual First United Methodist Church Auction will be held on Sunday, Oct. 29 at the church, located at 201 E. 8th St. Lunch at 11 a.m., with the auction starting at 12 p.m. The event will feature a variety of items, including homemade items such as quilts and baked such as quilts and baked goods and tickets to sporting events. Open to the community. A parenting class sponsored by Dawson County Rooted in Relationships will be held Oct. 19 and 26 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Central Community College - Lexington. The classes will be offered in Spanish. The event is free and open to the public. Fore more information contact Nancy Pinedo at 308-324-1841. Harvest Party: LexChristian Church Annual Harvest Party will be Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., 1206 N. Erie, Lexington (across from hospital). Chili cook-off, hot dogs, bingo, cake walk, bouncy house, games, candy and prizes. No scary costumes please. Please join us for a warm, safe, fun, family night. Open to the community. The Oconto United Methodist Church annual Turkey Dinner and Bazaar will be Sunday, Nov. 5, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Oconto Community Building. Adults, $8.00, children (5-10). The Holy Rosary Youth Group in Overton will host their annual Turkey Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 5, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Overton Public School commons area. A free will donation will be accepted. Veterans Day activities on Nov. 11 at the Heartland Military Museum will include: Coffee and rolls at 9:30 a.m. , 11 a.m. hour ceremony with keynote speaker Sen. Tom Brewer, a bean soup lunch at 12:15 p.m. and a parade trhough downtown Lexington at 2 p.m. All events open to the public. The 12th Annual Endure the Cure Co-ed Volleyball Tournament will be held Dec. 3 at 8 a.m. at Gothenburg Junior and Senior High School Gym, 1322 Avenue I. The event will serve as a fundrasier for Marcia Speck, who is being treated for breast cancer. All proceeds go to the family. For more information call Jim Macias at 308-746-3100. Events at the Lexington Grand Generation Center - Public Bingo on Mondays at 7 p.m. Must be 18 to play. For questions call 308-324-2498. Homemade Pretzel Baking on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. Cost to purchase pretzels is .50/pretzel, $6.00/dozen. Purchase and/or come help roll! Love in Action Outreach, 907 West 8th St., Lexington, is open Monday through Thursday, 12:30 4 p.m. For assistance go to 909 West 8th St. Donations of clothes, furniture and other items any time back of store or contact 308-651-0925 for further assistance. Monetary donations are accepted as well. Lexington Area Parkinsons Disease Support Group Meetings are held the second Thursday each month at 2 p.m. in the education room at the Community Health & Fitness Center (1600 W. 13th, Lexington) For more information contact Dixie Menke at 308-325-5350 or 308-784-4022 or Brenda Bierman at 308-324-2523 or 308-325-9216. RYDE Transit - Public Transportation is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To schedule a ride in Dawson County or Lexington call 308-324-3670. Public Transportation is easy to ride and open to everyone. MEETINGS American Legion in Lexington meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles. Survivors of Suicide Support Group meets every second Monday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 1616 W. 39th St., in Kearney. For more information contact Carol Rowedder at 308-237-2635. . LEXINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY The Lexington City Employees are sponsoring a "NEW Pillow and Blanket Drive." The week of Oct. 23 - 27, City of Lexington employees are holding a "New Pillow and Blanket Drive" to help people in need this winter, Bring a new blanket or pillow to the Library and help yourself to an item from the Gently Used Book Sale shelf, or bring one to the Grand Generation Center and get a free meal, or bring one to City Hall! Thank you for your generosity! Storytime meets on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. at the Lexington Public Library. Children and their caregivers are invited to join us for fun and exciting stories, music, and learning activities. We look forward to seeing you this fall. The Monday Afternoon Book Club will meet Monday, Nov. 6, at 3:00 p.m. Our book for November is "Say Nothing" by Brad Parks. You are invited to read the book and join us for a lively discussion at the Lexington Public Library. Novel Stitchers meets on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. If you enjoy stitching -- knitting, crocheting, quilting, cross stitch, needlepoint, or have another portable stitching project -- join us at the library for two hours of stitching and visiting. We will meet on Tuesdays, Oct. 17, 24, and 31 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Lexington Public Library Board Room. We would love to have you join us. LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER Exercise room is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Every Sunday the Center available for rent. Wednesday 9:15 a.m. - Go4Life 9:30 a.m. - Coffee/Crafts 9:30 a.m. - Pool T. - Holdrege 12:45 p.m. - Cards 1:30 p.m. - FROG 2:30 -3:30 p.m. - Hot Cookies 3 p.m. - Strength Training Thursday 9:15 a.m. - Tai Chi 9:45 a.m. Dancercise 1:00 p.m. - Wii Bowling 2 p.m. - Pumpkin Decorating Friday 9:15 a.m. - Go4Life 12:45 p.m. - Cards 1 p.m. - FROG LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER MENU Homemade bread everyday. Choice of skim, 2% or chocolate milk. No reservations needed except for large groups. Serving time: 11:30 a.m. Wednesday Baked chicken, baby bakers, dilled carrots, diced plums Thursday Pork cutlet, tatar gems, buttered beets, tropical fruit, dump cake Friday Hot turkey burger, mashed potato/gravy, 3-bean casserole, hot cinnamon apples LEXINGTON SCHOOL MENU Breakfast Wednesday Choice of egg and sausage burrito, cereal and cheese stick, fruit variety, 100 percent fruit juice Thursday - Friday No School Lunch Wednesday Beef frankfurter in a blanket, pizza, cheese max sticks,k sub sandwich, yogurt, muffn and cheese stick, puffs of potatoes Thursday - Friday No School OVERTON SCHOOL MENU Breakfast Wednesday Biscuit sandwich Thursday Glazed donuts and sausage or cereal and sausage Friday No School Lunch Wednesday Taco salad Thursday No Lunch Friday No School ORGANIZATIONS AA/NA: open meeting Friday nights at 7 p.m. at Plum Creek Mall at Two Bridges Counseling, 513 N. Grant St., Suite 3a, Lexington. Westside Group: AA/NA open meeting on Monday and Wednesday nights at separate locations at 8 p.m. Monday night meetings at First Christian Church, 1206 N. Erie St. in Lexington. Wednesday nights at Community Health Center (west of hospital) 1600 W. 13th St. in Lexington. AA Elwood: at 8 p.m. on Sundays at United Methodist Church, 601 Rush in Elwood. Contact: 785-3567 (Tom). Al-Anon meets Mondays, 8 p.m. at the LexChristian Church, 13th & Erie; Wednesdays, 8 p.m. at Lexington Regional Health Center Board room, use east entrance; Thursdays, noon at Grace Lutheran Church, 105 E. 17th, use office door. For more information call 308-651-0143. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, non-smoking: at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at St. Anns Catholic Church basement, 301 E. Sixth St. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, non-smoking - Smithfield: At 8 p.m. on Thursdays at Hope Lutheran Church, 74098 Road 436 in Smithfield. Call 785-3567 or 472-3376. Celebrate Recovery: a 12-step, anonymous program helping participants overcome any hurts, habits, addictions or hang-ups. Meets twice: 1) at 7 p.m. on Thursdays at Lexington Evangelical Free Church, 810 S. Washington Street. Contact: 308-324-3825 or 308-238-1298. 2) at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays at Parkview Baptist Churchs Y.A.C., 1105 Park St.. Contact: 308-324-4410. Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska Public Immunization Clinic, 1st & 3rd Mondays every month: Open 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m. by appointment at 931 West 7th St., Lexington. Clinics serve ages 2 months - 18 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult, previous vaccination records required. Contact 308-865-1352 ext. 143. Dawson/Gosper County CASA: seeking Volunteers. CASA Volunteers are everyday people from all walks of life, who advocate through the court system in the interests of children. Contact 324-7364. Grupo Lexington AA (Spanish Speaking) open meeting Saturday nights at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 11 p.m., at 114 West 6th St. in Lexington. Lexington Area Grief Support Group: meets at 4:30 p.m. on the first Mondays of each month at Fitness Center, 1600 W. 13th Street. Open to anyone experiencing the death of a loved one. Contact Lexington Regional Health Center Home Health office, 324-8300. Lexington Lions Club meets the 4th Monday of every month at the Lexington Grand Generation Center hospitality room. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., followed by a program and meeting. Lexington Optimist Club: meet at Kirks Nebraskaland Restaurant every Thursday at noon except the first Thursday of the month. If you need to get ahold of us you can email us at lexoptimist@gmail.com or you can send mail to Lexington Optimist Club, PO Box 355, Lexington, NE 68850. Lexington Rotary Club: meets the first and third Wednesday of the month at Lexington Public Library from 12 to 1 p.m. For more information contact Kirsten Faessler at 308-324-8333. Narcotics Anonymous: open meeting on Sundays at 12 p.m. at Two Bridges Counseling, 513 N. Grant St. Suite 3a in Lexington. WASHINGTONU.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday warned Sen. John McCain that I fight back after McCain questioned half-baked, spurious nationalism in Americas foreign policy. McCain, a former Navy pilot who spent 5 years in a Vietnam prisoner of war camp and is battling brain cancer, offered a simple response to Trump: I have faced tougher adversaries. Trump said in a radio interview with WMAL in Washington, Im being very, very nice but at some point I fight back and it wont be pretty. He bemoaned McCains decisive vote this past summer in opposition to a GOP bill to dismantle Barack Obamas Affordable Care Act, a move that caused the failure of GOP efforts to repeal and replace Obamacare. In Philadelphia on Monday night, the six-term Republican senator from Arizona received an award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the country. In addition to recalling his more than two decades of military service and his imprisonment during the war, McCain took a moment to go a step further than the nights other speakers, who lamented what many described as a fractured political climate. To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems, he said, is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. He continued: We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil. Former Vice-President Joe Biden presented McCain with the Liberty Medal. Though members of opposing parties, the two men worked together during their time in the Senate. Former president Barack Obama, who defeated McCain in his bid for the presidency in 2008, congratulated the senator on the award in a tweet Monday night. Im grateful to @SenJohnMcCain for his lifetime of service to our country. Congratulations, John, on receiving this years Liberty Medal, Obama wrote. Biden had his own comments on the Trump administration Monday at a University of Delaware talk on bipartisanship with Republican Ohio Gov. John Kasich. Biden said 14 heads of state from around the world have contacted him for advice, including one European leader he wouldnt identify, who said Trump reminds him of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. Biden called Trumps behaviour absolutely bizarre. Violating the norms of personal conduct generates more anxiety and fear than any policy prescription that this president has annunciated, Biden said. This breaking down of international and national norms is the glue that holds the liberal world order together, and holds together our system. That is what is being attacked and thats whats most dangerous. Another of McCains political foes, 2012 GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney, said on Twitter: Ran against him, sometimes disagree, but proud to be a friend of @SenJohnMcCain: hero, champion of character and last night, Lincolnesque. Pressed on Trumps threat Tuesday morning, McCain told reporters he has had tougher fights, and then smiled. Trump said in the radio interview that McCains vote against Republican efforts to dismantle the 2010 health care law was a shocker. McCain and Trump have long been at odds. During the campaign, Trump suggested McCain was not a war hero because he was captured in Vietnam. Read more about: SHARE: BEIRUTU.S.-backed Syrian forces liberated the city of Raqqa from Daesh, also known as ISIS, militants Tuesday, a senior commander said, in a major defeat for the collapsing extremist group that had proclaimed it to be the capital of its caliphate. Although clashes in Raqqa have ended, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are in control, combing the city in northern Syria for landmines and searching for any Daesh sleeper cells left behind, Brig. Gen. Talal Sillo told The Associated Press. Sillo said a formal declaration that Raqqa has fallen would be made soon, once troops finish their clearing operations in the city on the banks of the Euphrates River. Col. Ryan Dillon, a spokesperson for the U.S.-led coalition, said it has not yet received official reports that the city was cleared, describing mines and booby traps throughout Raqqa that have killed returning civilians and senior SDF commanders in recent days. One of those killed Monday was the head of the internal security force affiliated with the SDF. Another challenge for the troops is searching the tunnels that were dug by the militants around the city, Dillon said. This will take some time, to say that the city is completely clear, he told AP. We still suspect that there are still (Daesh) fighters that are within the city in small pockets. The loss of Raqqa will deprive the militants of a major hub for recruitment and planning, Dillon said, because the city attracted hundreds of foreign fighters and was a place where attacks in the Middle East and Europe were planned. He added that the militants remain active in Syria, farther south around the eastern province of Deir el-Zour. This has been the wellspring of (Daesh) as we know it, he said. But he stressed that the military defeat of the militants doesnt mean the end of (Daesh) and their ideology. Read more: 100 Daesh fighters surrender to U.S.-backed forces in Syria, local officials say Daesh releases audio of its leader in apparent effort to prove he did not die in airstrike Dozens of militants who refused to surrender made their last stand earlier Tuesday in Raqqas sports stadium, which the group had turned into a notorious prison in the more than three years it held the city. The SDF forces earlier captured Raqqas main hospital, the other last remaining IS holdout that had served both as a medical facility and a Daesh, also known as ISIS or ISIL, command centre. The SDF fighters have not gone through it to clear it, Dillon said. Dillon said the coalition has not carried out any airstrikes in the past three days to allow civilians to leave. The SDF has also called on Daesh fighters to surrender, and about 350 have turned themselves in, he said, adding that none were high-value targets. In recent months, Daesh has steadily lost territory in Iraq and Syria, including Iraqs second-largest city of Mosul. After the group seized Raqqa from other Syrian rebels in early 2014, it transformed the one vibrant metropolis into the epicentre of its brutal rule where opponents were beheaded and terror plots hatched. Daesh militants had been cornered in and around the stadium, and it was not immediately clear after Sillos statement whether any were still inside it. The stadium is a huge structure with underground rooms and tunnels. There are also buildings around it still under the control of Daesh, said SDF spokesperson Mustafa Bali. A senior Kurdish commander said later that the stadium has been checked and cleared of landmines. SDF forces raised their own flag in the stadium, he added. Earlier, he said 22 Daesh militants were killed in the advance on the hospital. On Monday, the SDF captured Paradise Square, Raqqas infamous public square that was used by the militants to perform beheadings and other killings in front of residents who were summoned by loudspeakers and forced to watch. Bodies and severed heads would be displayed there for days, mounted on posts and labelled with their crimes, according to residents, who later dubbed it Hell Square. With the capture of the hospital, the last black Daesh flag was taken down, according to the Kurdish-run Hawar news agency. A video released by the news agency showed the clashes around the hospital, which appeared riddled with bullets and partly blackened from a fire. A senior Kurdish commander said there was no sign of civilians in the stadium or around it, but he added that his troops were being cautious because of possible landmines. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to reporters. The battle for Raqqa began in June and has dragged for weeks as the SDF fighters faced stiff resistance from the militants. The city suffered devastating damage, with most of its buildings levelled or in ruins. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said more than 1,000 civilians were killed in the campaign. Read more about: SHARE: Did violent volcanoes in Russia, Greenland and Alaska affect the lives of ancient Egyptians? It may sound improbable, but according to a new study, the answer is yes. In a paper published Tuesday in Nature Communications, a team of researchers shows that explosive volcanic eruptions in high northern latitudes of the globe can impact the Nile watershed, causing the flow of one of the worlds mightiest rivers to slow. This in turn could keep the lower Nile from flooding in the late summer months a regular occurrence on which ancient Egyptians relied to irrigate their crops. No Nile flooding meant no irrigation, which meant a bad year in the fields, low food supplies and ultimately, researchers say, civic unrest. Its a bizarre concept that Alaskan volcanoes were screwing up the Nile, but in fact, thats what happened, said Joseph Manning, a historian at Yale University who worked on the study. Manning said the idea to compare geological evidence of volcanoes with records kept by the ancient Egyptians occurred to him about two years ago. He was at a dinner with geographer Francis Ludlow, now at Trinity College in Dublin, who had contributed to a seminal study that redated volcanic eruptions and looked at how they may have impacted the climate and history at the time. Around their third glass of wine, Manning asked Ludlow whether he had any data on volcanoes that erupted from 305 to 30 B.C. the centuries that the powerful Ptolemaic dynasty ruled Egypt, and Mannings area of expertise. When Ludlow pulled the data up on his computer, Manning was stunned. He instantly recognized the dates of some of the volcanoes as corresponding with times of upheaval in Ptolemaic Egypt. It almost looked too good to be true, Manning said. And thats when we started to work. The two researchers teamed up with William Boos, who studies the fluid dynamics of tropical atmosphere with an emphasis on monsoon circulations to try to understand how an explosive volcano in a different part of the world can affect the East African monsoon season. The authors explain that sulphurous gases released during a powerful volcano can form reflective sulphate aerosols in the stratosphere. Because these aerosols reflect solar radiation, they lead to a cooling effect that can last for one to two years. This, in turn, affects what is known as the hydroclimate, including the amount of surface evaporation and rainfall. Its an indirect response, but because of atmospheric circulation and energy budgets, we find that large volcanic eruptions cause droughts, particularly in monsoon areas, Manning said. He added that the effect on the Nile watershed appeared to be greatest for volcanoes in the high northern latitudes of the globe. To see how this dynamic played out in the real world, the authors compared the dates of ancient volcanic explosions from ice cores in Greenland and Antarctica to the Islamic Nilometer an ancient record of the heights of the Niles annual summer flood. The Islamic Nilometer, which stretches more than 1,000 years from 622 till 1902, is the longest-known annually recorded observational hydrological record, the authors wrote. Through this work, they found that the flood height of the Nile during an eruption year was consistently lower than during non-eruption years in all but one case. On average, the impact of an explosive volcano reduces river flooding by 25 per cent below the mean, Manning said. Although the Nilometer did not go back to the time of Ptolemaic Egypt, the authors still were able to compare data about the timing of ancient volcanoes with socioeconomic and political activity from that era. They were aided by a trove of well-dated records, particularly papyri, that survived. The researchers found an increase in revolts against Ptolemaic rule in eruption years, suggesting the events might have been triggered by the stress of the Nile failure and not by overtaxation or resentment of Greek rule, as previously has been thought. And while they discovered no relationship between volcanic explosions and the initiation of wars, the group did find that ongoing wars were more likely to cease after a violent volcano. This could be because shortly after volcanic eruptions altered the Nile flow, warrior kings had to leave the battlefield and return home to mitigate civil unrest. For example, after major volcanic eruptions in 247 and 244, historical documents suggest that Ptolemy III was called to address food shortages at home just as he and his troops were about to enter Babylon. If he had stayed, he might have conquered the entire Near East possibly changing the course of human history, Manning said. The authors note that there are a lot of causes of Nile flooding variability not just volcanoes. The ancient Egyptians were fairly well adept at handling the rivers unpredictability, for example, by relying on grain storage. Similarly, they point out that there are other reasons besides Nile failure that would have led to revolts in Ptolemaic Egypt: ethnic tensions between Egyptians and Greek elites, heavy state taxation and the cost of having nearly constant military operations. The authors are not saying that volcanoes caused all civil unrest in Egypt, but they do think the eruptions could have been a factor. The work suggests that humans may be a little less in control of our destiny than we realize. As current events have shown, we still live in nature, Manning said. Read more about: SHARE: Prosecutors announced recently that Alexandre Bissonnette will go straight to trial on a slew of charges arising from his attack on a Mosque in Quebec City earlier this year. Despite killing six and wounding 19 in the brazen assault on worshippers, he is not charged with terrorism. The announcement came on the heels of the Las Vegas massacre where 59 were killed and 527 injured. No terrorism charges there either, even though it meets the Nevada state definition. No doubt that in both cases people were terrorized. Yet, the terrorism label is sparsely used. Technically, because there is no universally accepted definition, authorities can selectively apply it. Indeed, one persons terrorist may be anothers criminal or freedom fighter. To many observers, the term appears to be reserved for others. Stephen Paddock was not a terrorist, according to Las Vegas Sheriff, Joe Lombardo, who immediately labelled him a local individual and a lone wolf. Similarly, Bissonnette may have been disturbed. And of course, they were both sick and demented. If they were Muslims, they would be homegrown terrorists committing jihad or Islamic terrorism. Mental health or personal issues would not have factored as much. The Criminal Code defines terrorism as an act committed, entirely or in part, for political, religious or ideological purpose, objective or cause that has the intention of intimidating the public, or a segment of the public with regard to its security. There are plenty of reports documenting the Laval political science students journey from a moderate conservative to someone with far-right sympathies and connections, though this may not satisfy strict evidentiary requirements. Prosecutors will say that the evidence dictates the charges. Terrorism is more onerous to prove than regular crimes, in part because motive and other complex factors may be critical. If prosecutors believe there is strong evidence for conviction on the charges laid, then adding terrorism may unnecessarily complicate the legal case. Understandably, establishing terrorist motive is onerous. There is the belief that there is no real purpose to pursuing such charges beyond the symbolism because it would have little, if any, impact on the sentence. I agree. Being a critic of the anti-terror regime, I also believe that the law should be scrapped, but until it is, Bissonnette should be charged with terrorism. As long as we have the law, a terrorist is a terrorist is a terrorist. The degree of caution argued above is rarely exercised when suspects are Muslims. In such instances, the terrorism label is used with ease without regard to its devastating impact on the community. Even a quick review of a handful of recent cases reveals Muslim men were charged with terrorism offences sometimes with tenuous or imagined connections to terror, while non-Muslim whites get a pass. Lets go back to 2013. Despite planning to send a political message by blowing up the Veterans Affairs building in Calgary, ex-military intelligence operative Glen Gieschen was not charged with terrorism. In 2014, crimes committed by Martin Couture-Rouleau (who rammed his car into two soldiers, killing one) and Michael Zehaf-Bibeau (who killed a soldier) are not presented just as the crimes of two individuals. Despite being assessed with chronic psychological problems, their crimes were attributable to their Islamic world view and both are dead. However, Justin Bourque, who shot five RCMP officers and killed 3, is merely a murderer. The fact Bourque grew up in a religious fanatic environment and believed he was a soldier of Jesus Christ was never used to link him to a broader community or to frame his violence as terrorism. Bourque even told police he was rebelling against the oppressive government. In 2015, an alleged plot to target the Halifax Shopping Centre on Valentines Day was foiled by police who found one suspect, James Gamble, dead of self-inflicted wounds. Two others, Randall Shepherd and Lindsay Souvannarath, were charged but not with terrorism. The RCMP spokesperson, Brian Brennan, said the suspects were a group of individuals that had some beliefs and were willing to carry out violent acts against citizens. While then-Justice Minister Peter MacKay said this was a group of murderous misfits. He also noted that the attack does not appear to have been culturally motivated, therefore not linked to terrorism. White supremacist political beliefs and ideas are apparently not enough. That fact that the term is being preserved only to describe racially profiled violence reveals how deeply embedded racism and Islamophobia has become in our language and disturbingly, even in our legal system, notes University of Toronto professor Megan M. Boler. Bissonnette must be charged with terrorism because he is a terrorist, but also because we must actively challenge the public perception that only Muslims commit terrorism. Faisal Kutty is counsel to KSM Law, an associate professor at Valparaiso University Law School in Indiana and an adjunct professor at Osgoode Hall Law School. @faisalkutty. SHARE: Score another win for Donald Trumps high-handed version of protectionism. Mondays decision by Montreal-based Bombardier to give away control over its much-vaunted C Series jet virtually guarantees that the U.S. will get the lions share of any new jobs created. It also threatens to saddle taxpayers in Quebec and the rest of Canada with a good chunk of the $6 billion debt Bombardier incurred developing the jet. How did Canadas most important state-subsidized, high-tech company get into this mess? The long answer is complicated and involves corporate incompetence as well as the geopolitics of the global aerospace industry. The short answer is the election of America First advocate Trump as U.S. president. The latest chapter of this ongoing saga began in April when American aerospace giant Boeing formally complained to the U.S. Commerce Department about Bombardiers proposed sale of 125 C Series jets to Delta Air Lines. Charging that the project had been improperly subsidized by the Canadian and Quebec governments, Boeing asked that an 80 per cent tariff be slapped on any C Series plane entering the U.S. The Trump administration was more than agreeable. It imposed a preliminary tariff of 300 per cent, thereby making the Canadian-manufactured jet virtually unsalable in the lucrative U.S. market. That posed a real problem. Bombardiers solution was quite simple. It was to move production of planes intended for the U.S. market to a plant in Alabama. That non-union plant is owned by the European aerospace giant Airbus. For Airbus, the arrangement is sweet. In return for letting Bombardier use its Alabama plant, it gets just over 50 per cent of the C Series project for free. It doesnt have to pony up a cent. Nor does it have to absorb any of Bombardiers sizable $8.7 billion debt, much of which was incurred developing the C Series. For Bombardier too, this is a good deal. By moving assembly from Canada to the U.S., it avoids the 300 per cent tariff and keeps the Delta sale alive. As well, it gets to locate its American production in a so-called right-to-work state that promises cheap wages and is vehemently anti-union. While it no longer controls the C Series, Bombardier does get to keep a 31 per cent stake in the project for at least 7.5 years. And it can take advantage of Airbus global reach to market the jet. I am not sure that this is such a good deal for Quebec. Its 49.5 per cent stake in the project, for which it paid $1.25 billion, has been whittled down to just over 19 per cent. Ottawa has sunk less into Bombardier. Its latest contribution to the C Series bailout was a $372.5 million loan which it might get back. Bombardier has repaid roughly one half of the $1.3 billion in federal loans it and its predecessor companies were given between 1996 and 2008. But the Airbus deal effectively marks another failure in Canadas long-running efforts to nurture a homegrown aerospace industry. It seems we are not big enough to go it alone. Economic benefits? The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, which represents Bombardiers Montreal plant, says it is pleased that the roughly 2,000 people working on the C Series there are to keep their jobs. But the question of where new jobs might go remains unresolved. Certainly, Alabama will get any new jobs involved in the manufacture of jets for the U.S. market. State Governor Kay Ivey has already issued a press release welcoming them. But where will the projects new owner, Airbus, locate production for other markets? It could choose Bombardiers unionized plant in Montreal and win the eternal gratitude of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Or it could choose its cheaper, non-union plant in Alabama and score points with protectionist Trump who, whether you like him or not, is still the most powerful man in the world. Thomas Walkom appears Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Read more about: SHARE: Despite Canadas optimism, NAFTA talks seem to be heading nowhere. Wanting to push back on Mexicos influence over the American economy, Washington is now indicating that the bilateral option with Canada is more appealing. In Donald Trumps playbook, multilateral deals are highly complex and can only benefit smaller markets to a greater degree. Bilateral deals are perceived as being more predictable, as they make it easier to access potential long-term gains. Whether we agree with this premise or not, what the U.S. believes to be true matters to everyone. But for our agri-food sector, many wonder how life will look like without NAFTA. Should NAFTA end, there is no doubt that tariffs will rise and will affect cross-border supply chain efficiency. In fact, The Peterson Institute for International Economics suggests tariffs on agricultural commodities and other food products could go up by 3.5 per cent on average for the U.S., 4.2 per cent for Canada, and 7.5 per cent for Mexico. This brings a lot of uncertainty for major agricultural sectors like cattle, hogs, and many grains. In agri-food, Canada has a trade deficit with the U.S. market. We sell them about $22 billion worth of goods while the Americans sell us $24 billion worth of food products, ranging from produce, baked goods and processed food items. But these numbers hide an inconvenient truth as to what our agri-food economy is about on a global stage. Most of what we sell are raw commodities which have been processed at a very basic level, only to buy them back, packaged or in a bottle, at 20 times the price. This is perhaps the wake-up call Canada needed. For years, Canada has been a trade-reliant, agricultural economy and has never been compelled to become more strategic about trade. Our global position on agri-food trades has been weak at best. With over 120 marketing boards across the country, our economy has been obsessed with countervailing oligopolistic powers upstream to protect our farmers. Farming needs support, but most of our agricultural policies have been at the expense of companies in processing and distribution. Some companies have successfully hedged against Ottawas decades-long nonchalant focus on trades. Saputo in Montreal and AGT in Saskatchewan are some brilliant examples. It is only recently, with attempts to join TPP and with CETA, that Ottawa has shown signs that it realizes it needs to up its game on trades. With NAFTA, we can blame Washington all we want but Canada has not demonstrated that it wants to liberalize its trading position either. Ottawa has perhaps signalled it wants to modernize the tri-country trade pact, but it seemed unwilling to make any major concessions. We seem content to play defence against Goliath. Some of the most vibrant agri-food economies in the world have been proactively engaged on the global stage in order to give their agri-food sector a sense of purpose. Meanwhile, as the rest of the world progresses, we continue to support cartel-esque agencies to support commodity groups like dairy, eggs, poultry, maple syrup and many other sectors. Furthermore, we are still trying to figure out what our agri-food strategy will look like. To offset Trumps wrath, Ottawa did everything right to prepare itself accordingly for NAFTA talks except that Canada has failed to consider itself as an agri-food powerhouse in the making. To get there, we need a shift, a paradigmatic change in our mindset. Washington is now inviting Canada to address a dilemma, which to this day we have never wanted to deliberately face. CETA was a miracle and it happened in spite of ourselves. Canada is not even close to having a trade deal with the second largest economy in the world, China. If this was not a priority for Ottawa, it should be. Now that NAFTA seems to be on life-support, Canada should start thinking about its supply management and how it could reform it so it makes sense to the rest of the world, not just us. It also should also think of ways we can capitalize on our new trading friends, the EU. A new deal with the U.S. could put Canada in a very enviable position. We also need to think about increasing our processing capacity, and sell semiprocessed or finished food goods to the rest of the world, and not just wheat, barley or beef. Research suggests that exporting companies are always more innovative. For any agri-food economy, it is always challenging to build a competitive advantage with raw commodities. Belief in your own products is one thing, but the rest of the world has to approve to build a brand. The cruel truth is that Canadas agri-food influence is completely irrelevant to the rest of the world. The Trans-Pacific Partnership was created, and killed, and Canadas opinion hardly mattered. U.S. media barely covered Justin Trudeaus latest visit to Washington. So instead of trying to please an ambivalent neighbour, it is time for Canada to seek more new friends on the world stage. Sylvain Charlebois is professor in food distribution and policy and dean of the faculty of management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. Read more about: SHARE: Toronto Police are again attempting to get the Toronto Police Services Board to allow them to increase their use of Tasers. The board (consisting of Mayor John Tory, two city councillors, three provincial appointees and a chair) should say no. The Toronto Police Services Board is holding what its call a Public Consultation on Wednesday evening. This event is titled Achieving Zero Harm/Zero Death An Examination of Less-Lethal Force Options, including the Possible Expansion of Conducted Energy Weapons (CEWs). (The only CEWs Ontario police officers are allowed to use are Tasers.) In spite of the grandiose title, the Discussion Paper for Public Consultation that accompanies the agenda shows the purpose of the consultation is to get the public to accept more Tasers. When a Taser works properly, two darts, connected to the Taser by wires and having fish-hook-like barbs, are shot into the victim. Then an electric current is discharged so it flows through one of the wires, then the victims body and back through the other wire. The victim is immobilized and falls to the ground. There is no doubt that Tasers inflict substantial pain, cause injuries that range from minor to very serious, and, occasionally, cause death. It is certainly better to be Tasered than to be shot with a firearm. However, Tasers are not used as alternatives to firearms. Ontario police officers are only permitted to use firearms in attempts to prevent serious injury or death. Officers with Tasers are trained not to use them in such situations since they are not reliable enough to be depended upon. The discussion paper claims that Tasers have occasionally been deployed when an officer could have justified using a firearm. The slim possibility of such a use contrary to training is not a sufficient reason to allow Tasering of people in numerous other situations, including many where a person in an emotional crisis merely threatens to assault an officer. There have been a number of people shot to death by Toronto police officers. Virtually all of them were in the midst of an emotional crisis that caused them to ignore police commands. There have been many inquests into such deaths. Many police officers and organizations have urged inquest juries to recommend increased availability of Tasers. Like everyone, jurors prefer that people be Tasered rather than be shot. They are therefore predisposed to adopting such recommendations. However, to appropriately determine the question of the extent to which Tasers should be available to police officers requires an understanding of the overall effects of Tasers. None of the inquest juries that recommended increased Taser use were provided with evidence of how unlikely it is that Tasers would be used in place of firearms, of what other situations Tasers will be deployed in, or of the possible harms caused by Tasers. I am aware of only one inquest in which such evidence was presented, the Eligon inquest. At that inquest, the Toronto Police Service vigorously urged the jury to recommend expanded Taser availability; the jury refused. Many inquest juries have recommended that officers be required to attempt verbal de-escalation before they shoot someone, if such attempts can be made while maintaining officer and public safety. Verbal de-escalation consists of trying to talk to people instead of simply yelling commands. As opposed to questions of Taser availability, de-escalation recommendations have been based on substantial evidence. Moreover, there are no possible downsides to attempting verbal de-escalation when it is safe to do so. Some de-escalation is incorporated into training. However, no verbal de-escalation was attempted in any of the many cases in which Toronto police officers shot someone to death. In particular, videos that are available on YouTube show that Michael Eligon and Sammy Yatim were each confronted by a number of officers, none of whom made any attempt whatsoever at verbal de-escalation. Verbal de-escalation has a much greater likelihood of saving lives than Tasers do. The police board must make sure that, in every situation in which it is safe do so, officers try verbal de-escalation before killing someone. This requires stricter training and, where necessary, suitable discipline. It would be bizarre for the board to permit increased Taser use before it ensures that verbal de-escalation is attempted whenever feasible. Peter Rosenthal is a lawyer who is also professor emeritus of mathematics and adjunct professor of law at the University of Toronto. SHARE: Last week a beaming Donald Trump signed executive orders in front of a fawning audience clustered around his desk that will make it much harder for ordinary Americans to buy health insurance. And once again Canadians across the country looked across the border in disbelief at how Americans just cant come to grips with the idea that medical care is a right for everyone, not just those who can afford it. Americans also resist the idea that providing medical care is a collective responsibility whether it be for someone who has been in a car accident or diagnosed with breast cancer. Whereas here we all pitch in through our taxes so doctors, nurses, hospital beds and MRI machines are there for us when we need them. Just last week I was reminded once again of how fortunate we are in Canada to have somehow managed to sort all that out decades ago. A family member came down with a wicked flu that after several days only seemed to be getting worse. So on Thanksgiving Day I took her to the ER at Calgarys Rockyview General Hospital. The waiting room was almost empty and she was quickly whisked away to a bed for examination. An X-ray revealed that the influenza had developed into pneumonia. Thankfully, a bacterial pneumonia that could be treated with antibiotics. Within two hours she had been examined, diagnosed, treated and sent home to recover, which she did over five days. It still amazes me that in Canada we can decide to go to the ER of our choice and not have to even think about how much it will cost. Or if we will get the treatment health professionals decide we need rather than what an insurance company deems we need. I can hardly imagine how painful it must be for many people in the United States who know they need treatment but simply cant afford what it will cost. Of course, Canadian public health care isnt without serious problems. It eats up a lot of federal and provincial budgets. Wait times in ERs and for some surgeries are much longer than they should be. Expensive prescription drugs are beyond the reach of some people and need to be included in medicare. Patients who need treatment for opioid overdoses are over burdening hospitals and other emergency services and yet there seems no end in sight. And theres the danger that if Trump tears up the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) our public health care will be no longer have protected status. That could mean U.S for-profit health care providers could flood across the border and set up shop. I was a kid in Saskatchewan, the daughter of a doctor when the provinces doctors went on strike to protest the CCF governments introduction of medicare. I clearly remember how hard fought that battle was by both sides. The CCF supporters were accused of being Communists, which was about the worst thing you could say about anyone at the time. Once well-regarded family doctors who went on strike were smeared as hard-hearted, money grasping villains. Alberta was the last province to sign up for the federal medicare program. Premier Ernest Manning thought it was too socialistic and preferred government subsidies for private insurance for those who couldnt afford the full premium. It was called Manning Care. But in the end, public will prevailed and he gave up the fight. Fifty years later no political party in Alberta would dare suggest we dismantle public health care. Some would like to nip away at the edges and invite more privatization. But in general Albertans across the political spectrum want to keep things the way they are with some improvements. Thats why its so difficult to believe that so many Americans prefer a system in which they get tangled up with private insurers and for-profit hospitals. They even have to pay for flu vaccinations if their insurance doesnt cover it. Whereas in Canada we can walk into almost any drugstore and get a shot for free. Make sure you get one. Theres a wicked flu going around this season. Gillian Steward is a Calgary writer and former managing editor of the Calgary Herald. Her column appears every other week. gsteward@telus.net Read more about: SHARE: If the Trudeau governments newly announced small-business tax cut is the beginning of the end of this past summers pathetic tax-reform saga, it will be a finale worthy of O. Henry. The three small-business tax changes the government unveiled in July were framed as a down payment on its promise to close costly tax loopholes for high-earning individuals, a supposedly easy way for a government in dire need of revenues to raise some. Well, it certainly hasnt been easy. And now it looks like the effort wont raise much, if anything. To appease those aggrieved by the proposed reforms the government seems set on forgoing more revenue than it sought to save in the first place. With its ham-fisted rollout of a largely sensible tax-reform package, it has squandered a great deal of capital, both political and actual. Cutting the small-business tax rate to 9 per cent, from its current level of 10.5 per cent, was a Liberal campaign promise that went undelivered in Finance Minister Bill Morneaus first two budgets. Morneau likely delayed in part because, as the government accumulated larger-than-expected debt, Ottawa simply couldnt afford it. But perhaps, too, Morneau hesitated because the move is so controversial in policy circles. Some argue that preferential small-business taxes encourage companies to stay small rather than grow and incur the much higher corporate rates. A number of countries, such as Britain, have done away with small-business tax benefits entirely. Theres also mounting evidence that Canadas small-business tax regime does not primarily benefit the sort of mom-and-pop operations it was designed to help. According to researchers at the University of Calgary, 60 per cent of Canadas small-business tax break benefit is enjoyed by those who earn more than $150,000 per year. Meanwhile, a recent report for the Canadian Tax Foundation found that those who make more than $2.6 million a year (that is, the top 1 per cent of the top 1 per cent) are over 10 times more likely to hold shares in a small business corporation than the average Canadian. This tax cut appears to be a gift the government cant afford that will benefit primarily those who dont really need it. Whatever the reason for the delay in making the cut, the government has clearly calculated that delivering on this promise is the best way to quiet the uproar over its badly managed tax proposals and attempt to undo the political damage of the past weeks. (It is also expected to announce a number of further tweaks to the proposals in the coming days.) Of course, the uproar that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is now attempting to quiet was largely avoidable. The proposed reforms are aimed at preserving an unassailable principle: that the small-business tax system should help small businesses thrive and grow, not make it easier for wealthy individuals to pay less than others in similar circumstances. But in its tone-deaf communications and sloppy policy design, the government turned what should have been manageable blowback into a major political headache one thats bound to grow as questions are raised about Morneaus handling of his own business interests and financial disclosures. And so we get this cut. The result is as absurd as the process that got us here. According to projections from the Parliamentary Budget Officer, the tax cut will cost Ottawa far more over the coming years than the closed loopholes were supposed to bring in. This fiasco casts serious doubt on whether the Trudeau government has the skill or the will to raise needed revenues. Study after study has shown that our tax code is rife with regressive and ineffective loopholes that cost Ottawa billions of dollars per year without helping the government meet any larger policy objective. Upon taking office, Morneau claimed tax fairness as his top priority and promised to bring in $3 billion annually by reviewing the system and closing the worst of these loopholes. Some experts suggest it would be relatively easy to save twice as much as that. Of course, this just and prudent project wont work if every time the government tries to close a loophole it attempts to buy support with a costly tax cut. Is it competence or courage this government lacks? In any case, if the prime minister continues down this path, he will either have to scale back his progressive vision or continue to rack up debt indefinitely. Either way, thats not the government we were promised. Read more about: SHARE: Less than a year ago, Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard responded to the murder of six men at a Quebec City mosque with rare and welcome introspection. In a powerful speech, he acknowledged the role of the provinces politicians in creating an atmosphere of suspicion and hostility toward Muslims. He recognized that a decade of toxic debate about religious accommodation in Quebec had taken its toll. The province, he said, like all societies, must deal with its demons and these demons are named xenophobia, racism, exclusion. He spoke these words alongside his chief political rival, Parti Quebecois leader Jean-Francois Lisee, who appropriately took some personal responsibility for the rising anti-Muslim sentiment. What a difference a few months makes. This week, Couillards Liberal government is expected to pass a law that will, among other things, ban the niqab on city buses and the main critique from Lisees official opposition is that it doesnt go far enough. Bill 62 seeks to ensure, among other things, that public sector workers provide services and citizens receive them with face uncovered. The bill makes room for religious accommodations, but would give employers extraordinarily wide latitude to refuse. (The PQ would like to see less room for religious accommodation.) In a gesture of extraordinary hypocrisy, Couillard urged quick passage of an earlier form of the bill just a week after the Quebec City shooting. The legislation has gotten worse since then. Originally aimed only at provincial public services, it has since been extended to municipal services such as public transit. Imagine the enforcement nightmare. Will bus drivers be asked to bar niqabi women from boarding or to demand they remove their veil? Its not at all clear what problem the bill exists to address. There are roughly 90 niqab-wearing women in the entire province. The religious neutrality of public servants, which the law would purportedly protect, is already guaranteed under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. (Nor, its worth noting, does the principle of neutrality seem to apply to the crucifix that still hangs in the provincial legislature.) Given the bills redundancy, and the fact that its wording appears targeted specifically at Muslims, its hard to see it as anything but a cynical sop to nativist voters. This law will no doubt be subject to a barrage of court challenges. But whether or not it survives, it will do great damage, as Couillard once seemed to understand. Words can be knives slashing at peoples consciousness, the premier said after the shooting. We need to act together to show the direction we want our society to evolve. The premier and his political rivals know just how dangerous a game they are playing. How profoundly disappointing that, for a few votes, they insist on playing nonetheless. Read more about: SHARE: William Joseph Bill Wescott, 55, of Lexington, died Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, at his home in Lexington. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Chapel in Lexington with Pastor William Ohlmann officiating. Visitation will be the evening prior on Oct. 20, 2017, from 5-7 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Chapel. It was Bills wishes that his body be cremated following the funeral service. A private family service with his ashes will be held at a later date. Bill was born April 27, 1962, in Ballston Spa, N. Y., to Donald Lee and Mary Elizabeth (Rooke) Wescott. He graduated from North Platte high school in 1980. Following graduation he worked mainly as a manager in the restaurant field. Bill spent his life bringing the joy of laughter to so many of his friends; you may have shared time with him dancing, or bowling or a game of cards. Just give him a fishing pole and his brother Rick and he were happy men. He shared a special bond with his brother Rick, as he did with each of his brothers, a trait that was instilled by his parents, in all five of their boys. Bill enjoyed playing Texas Hold em, bowling, and was Uncle Bill to all the kids. He loved music, anything from classical to rockn roll. He was a member of the Lutheran faith. His health did force him to retire as he suffered from diabetes. He will be so very missed. Bill leaves behind his parents, David (Mary Elizabeth Rooke) Sederlin of Wyoming, Minn.; his brothers, Ricky (Tammy) of Lexington, Gerald (Chuck) Wescott of Richmond, Calif., David E. (Ellen) Sederlin of Champlin, Minn., Michael (Veronica) Sederlin of North Platte, Donald Wescott of New York and sisters, Rhonda Wescott and Erica (Dan) Collins of Ballston Spa, N.Y.; cousin, Roger (Tonya) Rooke of Ballston Spa, N. Y., who was like a brother to Bill. He also leaves to mourn his passing, numerous nieces, nephews, that he loved dearly, and his sweet great-niece, Sadie Elizabeth Lewendowski, who lit up his life with her ability to debate at three years of age. Bill was preceded in death by his father, Donald, stepmother, Ollie and a brother, Carl. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com. New day, new highs, what can slow down this market? As we embarked on third-quarter earnings there were a number of happenings in the retail industry. Ruby Tuesday Inc. (RT) said it would go private, at the same time Nordstrom Inc. (JWN) - Get Free Report announced it had cancelled a strategic review that it was likely hoping would lead to such a deal. Embattled Sears Holdings Corp. (SHLD) said Monday that its largest institutional shareholder, Bruce Berkowitz of Fairholme Capital Management LLC, which owns about 27% of its stock, will leave the retailer's board of directors. His departure from the board will be effective Oct. 31. Sears' stock has fallen by more than 30% since the start of 2017 as the retailer struggles to keep pace with the changing industry. Meanwhile, Jonathan Heller, a frequent contributor to Real Money, TheStreet's premium publication for traders, weighs in on the Philadelphia beverage tax that kicked in in January and is meant to curb sugar intake. He says that beverage giants Coca-Cola Co. (KO) - Get Free Report , and PepsiCo Inc. (PEP) - Get Free Report have reported job losses as a result of declining sales in the city, but that despite some struggles soda buyers have flocked to stores just outside the city-and there are plenty of them-to make their purchases of soda tax free. Within the city, Pepsi reportedly had stopped shipping two-liter bottles and 12-packs of beverages, instead stocking shelves with one-liter bottles; the logic is smaller units, less tax (although the tax math, 1.5 cents per ounce, still works the same no matter the package size.) At the same time TheStreet is out with the first stories that are part of our series "Crash of '87 -- TheStreet Special Report," where we take a look at the cause of the 1987 stock market crash, known as Black Monday. We will walk you through the the hottest stories of the day and look forward to what could cause a similar crash in the future. Check back each day this week for new content. This is an excerpt from "In Case You Missed It," a daily newsletter brought to you by TheStreet. Sign up here. Photo of the day: Casual dining, slumping profits The casual dining space is in a state of flux, as fast casual restaurants like Chipotle Mexican Grille Inc. (CMG) - Get Free Report and Shake Shack (SHAK) - Get Free Report take market share from legacy players such as TGI Friday's and Ruby Tuesday. Friday's is already private and on Monday, Ruby Tuesday joined them, announcing that private equity firm NRD Capital would buy it in a $335 million deal. The industry hit a high in the 80s and 90s as popular appendages to malls and shopping centers. The industry was parodied in the 1999 movie from 21st Century Fox (FOXA) - Get Free Report "Office Space" where Jennifer Aniston's character is employed by "Chachkies" and ridiculed for her lack of flair. Despite the attention to detail (and 37 pieces of flair) of even great managers like Stan (pictured above) it's hard to imagine that Chachkies would have been able to stave off the effects of the general industry decline. Read more from "In Case You Missed It." Sign up here. More of What's Trending on TheStreet: Five former employees of Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) - Get Free Report said that the company's secret internal database for tracking bugs in its own software was compromised by highly sophisticated hackers in 2013, according to a report from Reuters. The hacked database contained descriptions of critical, often unfixed vulnerabilities in Microsoft software, including the highly popular Windows operating system. International government operatives and other hackers often place high value on such information, as it offers insight as to how they can plan electronic break-ins at other firms. Microsoft declined to discuss the issue, Reuters said, but had the flaws fixed within months of the attack. This is only the second known breach of a corporate database of this kind. The former employees said Microsoft examined other cybersecurity breaches that took place after this specific attack to ensure that there wasn't evidence hackers had used information stolen from Microsoft to attack other entities. Microsoft stock traded slightly lower just before the market's open on Tuesday, Oct. 17. More of What's Trending on TheStreet: Trade representatives from Canada and Mexico plan to firmly reject NAFTA proposals from the U.S. when the three countries' negotiators meet Tuesday, Oct. 17, according to CNBC, which cited two unnamed sources. Canada and Mexico do not plan to completely cease negotiations; however, the two countries reportedly intend to reject U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer's current protectionist position on the trade agreement. Though many U.S. lawmakers and business luminaries have stood by Canada and Mexico in an effort to protect the trade agreement, President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized the deal. NAFTA was first signed into law over 23 years ago by President Bill Clinton. Lighthizer will meet with Mexico's economy minister Ildefonso Guajardo and Canada's foreign minister Chrysita Freeland Tuesday afternoon. A joint press briefing will follow at approximately 3 p.m. ET. More of What's Trending on TheStreet: VMware, Inc. provides software solutions in the areas of modern applications, cloud management and infrastructure, networking, security, and digital workspaces in the United States and internationally. It offers VMware multi-cloud solutions, including VMware vSphere, a data center infrastructure that provides the fundamental compute layer; vSAN and VxRail, which offers holistic data storage and protection options to applications running on vSphere; and vRealize Cloud Management solutions that manages hybrid and multi-cloud environments running in virtual machines and containers, as well as VMware Cloud Foundation, a cloud platform that combines its vSphere, vSAN, and NSX with vRealize Cloud Management into an integrated stack and delivers enterprise-ready cloud infrastructure for private and public clouds. The company also provides networking solutions, such as VMware NSX, NSX Distributed and Gateway Firewalls, NSX Network Detection and Response Engine, NSX Advanced Load Balancer, Tanzu Service Mesh, and VMware SASE; security solutions consisting of VMware Carbon Black Endpoint, Workload, and Container; and digital workspace solutions comprising Workspace ONE Unified Endpoint Management, Access, Intelligent Hub, and Horizon. In addition, it offers application modernization solutions, such as Tanzu Application and Operations Platform, Tanzu Application Service Platform, Tanzu Observability, Tanzu Community Edition, and Tanzu Labs; and cloud management solutions, including vRealize Cloud Management, vCloud Suite, and CloudHealth by VMware Suite. The company sells its products through distributors, resellers, system vendors, and systems integrators. VMware, Inc. has a strategic alliance with Amazon Web Services to build and deliver an integrated hybrid solution. The company was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Palo Alto, California. EVERTEC, Inc. engages in transaction processing business in Latin America and the Caribbean. The company operates through Payment Services - Puerto Rico & Caribbean; Payment Services - Latin America; Merchant Acquiring; Business Solutions, and Corporate and Other segments. It provides merchant acquiring services, which enable point of sales and e-commerce merchants to accept and process electronic methods of payment, such as debit, credit, prepaid, and electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards. The company also offers payment processing services that enable financial institutions and other issuers to manage, support, and facilitate the processing for credit, debit, prepaid, automated teller machines, and EBT card programs; credit and debit card processing, authorization and settlement, and fraud monitoring and control services to debit or credit issuers; and EBT services. In addition, it provides business process management solutions comprising core bank processing, network hosting and management, IT consulting, business process outsourcing, item and cash processing, and fulfillment solutions to financial institutions, and corporate and government customers. Further, the company owns and operates the ATH network, an automated teller machine and personal identification number debit networks. It manages a system of electronic payment networks that process approximately three billion transactions. The company sells and distributes its services primarily through direct sales force. It serves financial institutions, merchants, corporations, and government agencies. EVERTEC, Inc. was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Intelsat S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides satellite communications services worldwide. The company offers a range of communications services to media companies, fixed and wireless telecommunications operators, data networking service providers for enterprise and mobile applications in the air and on the seas, multinational corporations, and Internet service providers; and commercial satellite communication services to the U.S. government and other military organizations and their contractors. It provides various on-network services, including transponder services; managed services that combine satellite capacity, teleport facilities, satellite communications hardware, and other ground facilities to provide managed and monitored broadband, trunking, video, and private network services to customers; and channel services primarily used for providing point-to-point bilateral services to telecommunications providers. The company also offers off-network services comprising transponder, mobile satellite, and other services. In addition, it offers satellite-related consulting and technical services that include the lifecycle of satellite operations and related infrastructure ranging from satellite and launch vehicle procurement through telemetry and commanding services, and related equipment sale services. The company was founded in 1964 and is headquartered in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg. Intelsat S.A. is a subsidiary of Serafina S.A. 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. Full coverage of the Delphi murders: Look back at 5 years of stories Members of Parliaments from Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific gathered in Brussels this week for the 47th session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly, as well as joint intersessional meetings with Members of the European Parliament. With less than one year to go before negotiations begin for a new partnership framework between the 79 members of the ACP Group of States and the European Union, one of the key issues of concern for the ACP is the state of preparations, including the shared principles and rationales that would guide the process. Negotiations for [a new ACP-EU partnership] are so important that all voices of the ACP Group need to be heard, including parliamentarians, civil society, etc. The ACP we want, must be people-driven because the issues touch on the ordinary lives of all ACP citizens, emphasised the President of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly, Hon. Ibrahim Rassin Bundu, MP of Sierra Leone. Summarising discussions of the Assembly from 9-11 October, including an exchange of views with Brussels-based Ambassadors on Monday, the Secretary-General H.E. Dr. Patrick I. Gomes noted the call from representatives for a radical departure from the traditional relationship, marked by an imbalance between the two blocs of countries in terms of economic might and levels of technology and capacity. Members urged consolidated efforts to achieve a level of sustainable development whereby ACP developing countries are able to progress from being dependent exporters of raw materials, to being able to add value to their own products. The underpinnings of the entire process for a post-Cotonou Agreement rests on the fundamental aim of achieving the structural transformation of ACP economies, said Dr. Gomes, referring to the current ACP-EU partnership framework known as the Cotonou Agreement a comprehensive and legally binding treaty that governs trade, development cooperation and political dialogue between EU and ACP countries. The agreement was signed in 2000 in Cotonou, Benin, for a period of 20 years. Transforming economic structures and investment strategies is essential to achieve healthy and productive lives by the great majority in our societies and not only for a few This means productive resources must enable jobs, particularly for youth, women and girls; investments must give equitable returns to workers by living wages that improve the quality of life of families; and education and health care must become available, at reasonable or no costs, he added. These aims, in line with the globally endorsed 2030 Development Agenda, are captured in the policy framework document adopted by the ACP Council of Ministers in May 2017 entitled Towards the ACP we want. It cites three pillars that would steer the work of the ACP Group in the future, including: (i) Trade, Investments, Industrialisation and Services; (ii) Development Cooperation, Technology, Science and Innovation/Research and (iii) Political Dialogue and Advocacy. According to the document, which was shared and discussed by Members of Parliament, a Central Negotiating Group at both ministerial and ambassadorial levels will be set up to lead talks with the EU side, supported by Technical Negotiating Teams focussing on the strategic pillars. Negotiations are set to start by August 2018, for a renewed ACP-EU partnership framework to replace the current one expiring in 2020. Following the meetings of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly from 9th to 11th October, members took part in joint meetings with European counterparts from 11th to 13th October. These intersessional meetings of the Bureau and Standing Committees of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly (JPA) are in preparation for the upcoming 34th session of the JPA to be held in Haiti, tentatively scheduled for 13th to 20th December 2017. Statement by the Secretary General at the 47th session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly 11 October 2017, Brussels I would like to take a few moments to update you on some of the developments being undertaken by the Secretariat since our last meeting in Malta. But before doing so, given Mondays very enlightening exchange with Parliamentarians, my remarks cannot be a mere update. I listened carefully to the genuinely-felt concern that the post-Cotonou ACP-EU Agreement must show a radical departure from the unbalanced relationship that has so far prevailed, despite some tangible benefits. In trade terms it is asymmetrical greater capacity in volumes of production and marketing by the EU and institutional mechanisms have more technology, skills and human resources. The underpinnings of the entire process for a post-Cotonou Agreement rests on the fundamental aim of achieving the structural transformation of ACP economies. This means productive resources must enable jobs, particularly for youth, women and girls; investments must give equitable returns to workers by living wages that improve the quality of life of families; and education and health care must become available, at reasonable or no costs. Transforming economic structures and investment strategies is essential to achieve healthy and productive lives by the great majority in our societies and not only for a few. These ideas mirror what several others said on Monday. Gambia was clear on this so was Cameroon; and Ethiopia spoke of the youth bombshells ready to explode. This is the context and process for the negotiation positions that will be undertaken by a reinvented and restructured ACP Group. The elements are there in the document Towards the ACP We Want. It was distributed since Malta and deserves to be read thoroughly and critiqued. Embellish it with your comments. To those who do not have it, copies can be sent electronically. The negotiation process has a road map guiding it the Georgetown Agreement is to be revised; briefs prepared for the Technical Negotiating Teams on each of the 3 strategic pillars; studies done on the Political Dialogue and Investment Facility in the Cotonou Agreement, etc. leading to an exchange of a Negotiating Brief with the European commission by August 2018. You as parliamentarians must play a key role. You will debate, amend, clarify and ratify a new Agreement or reject as your Parliaments see fit. I was particularly struck by the lady members of Parliament of Samoa and Gabon who gave us an impetus to place emphasis on charting a course to bring tangible benefits to the millions of peoples in our 79 Member States. To the Honourable Parliamentarian from Gabon, I admire your searching question on how will the EU regard the diversification of ACP partnerships? I can only answer your question by saying that it is for us to determine the nature and kind of partnerships the ACP Group as a whole will pursue. These need not be incompatible with what we agree to as a legally binding Agreement a Treaty with the European Union. The nature and scope of membership in the ACP Group will be determined on the provisions of our Constitutive Act the GT Agreement of 1975 and amended in 2003. The Council has decided that the Agreement be revised. That will be another milestone in our roadmap. The revision will require your critical inputs. While most of the discussions and consultations in the lead up to the negotiations, and during the negotiations themselves, will be conducted from Brussels, there will be need for deeper reflections at regional level to ensure that the ACP approach is as comprehensive and inclusive as possible. The Secretariat has been actively engaged in this regard, at both regional and international levels. Let me illustrate. I was privileged to attend the Pacific ACP Leaders Summit held in Apia, Samoa, on 5 September 2017, to which the Member of Parliament from Samoa referred. Most encouraging from the Leaders Summit is the unequivocal and unambiguous endorsement of the ACP policy framework in the document which was studied and debated. The Leaders also reaffirmed, and I quote, their strong commitment to, and support of, the decisions taken by the ACP Summits and the ACP Council of Ministers for the ACP Group to negotiate a successor post-2020 Agreement with the EU as a single unified trans-regional entity with guidance to be provided by a Central Negotiating Group. The Resolution also reiterated their commitment to work in mutual understanding and cooperation with other ACP regions and endeavor to further enhance the relationship and engagement with the ACP Group in the spirit of partnership, unity and solidarity. We would do well to have this kind of sustained engagement on the part of all ACP regions in order to enrich and buttress the work that will be done at Ministerial and Ambassadorial levels. The Committee of Ambassadors and the ACP Secretariat are committed to ensuring that the voices of our Parliamentary representatives are heard and their concerns taken account of in the negotiations. I turn now to progress made on thematic issues for structural economic transformation. In July the ACP and UNCTAD approved guiding principles for investment policymaking. These principles are in support of existing ACP initiatives, such as the ACP Private Sector Development Strategy, the New Approach to ACP support for the development of Agriculture Value chains, and the ACP Investment Facility. These non-binding principles provide a basis for investment policymaking with a view to: promoting inclusive economic growth and sustainable development; promoting coherence in national and international investment policymaking; fostering an open, transparent and conducive global policy environment for investment; and aligning investment promotion and facilitation policies with sustainable development goals. These Guiding Principles come at a time of mounting economic, social and environmental challenges, which highlight the critical role of investment as a driver of equitable economic and social growth. Mobilizing investment and ensuring that it contributes to sustainable development remains a key objective of the ACP Group. The ACP held its 5th Meeting of ACP Ministers of Fisheries on 18 -20 September, in Nassau, Commonwealth of the Bahamas. In line with SDG 14 on conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources, the meeting addressed issues such as Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, effective fisheries management, the blue economy, aquaculture development, small scale fisheries and fisheries subsidies reforms. This meeting sought to reinforce political and financial commitment to enhance capacity and collaboration, ensure robust monitoring and enforcement to eliminate IUU including the implementation of regional and international obligations. It also sought to increase investments and measures to unlock the economic potential of fisheries value chains and accrue benefits to countries and coastal communities particularly the SIDS. At the conclusion of that meeting, Ministers renewed their commitment to developing the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in ACP countries, as well as unlocking the potential of the blue economy through a new 40 million EDF grant resources for ACP Blue Growth Initiative. Scope for blending with the World Bank will be explored. Another topic that I would like to bring to your attention is the historic launch of a Gender initiative to fight against sexual and gender based violence against women and girls. This initiative was launched in the margins of the UN General Assembly and the ACP was represented by the Chairman of the Committee of Ambassadors, Ambassador Amadou DIOP of Senegal. The ACP is a key partner alongside the EU and the UN. This initiative will strategically focus on the most prevalent forms of Violence Against Women and Girls in different regions, including sexual and gender-based violence and harmful practices; specific forms of domestic and family violence; trafficking in human beings; and economic (labour) exploitation. For the ACP regions, the emphasis will be on sexual and gender-based violence and harmful practices in Sub-Saharan Africa, domestic and family violence in the Caribbean, and domestic violence in the Pacific. Violence against women and girls is a global pandemic that holds back development. Today it is said that one out of three women experience violence in their lives, this is, about 30% of women in the world. Up until last year 19% of women between 15 and 49 years of age have experienced physical and sexual violence by an intimate partner. These numbers tell us that the issue can no longer be ignored and must be addressed. Mr. President, the above are a few examples of the process of transformation the ACP is pursuing in the Global context of Agenda 2030. Before I conclude, allow me to express my gratitude for the constructive exchanges we had on Monday on the post-Cotonou process. The Secretariat continues to be inspired by the enthusiasm and dynamism this body has portrayed. This speaks clearly of how determined you are to make a difference in the lives of our people. The Secretariat has listened carefully and is taking due action. We remain committed to ensuring that the 2020 Agreement will be one that responds to the challenges of our times, the needs of our people and the objectives of Agenda 2030. We look forward to continuous policy engagement with the Parliamentary Assembly to ensure that the new agreement is fit for purpose as we accelerate changes to end poverty. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that your presence in these intercessional meetings speaks of the importance you attach to the wellbeing of the people you represent. The responsibility lies on you to tackle the economic turbulence and political challenges that call for decisive leadership and sincerity. Our mission at the ACP will not be a task for individuals but together with clarity of purpose and by those like you, who are here today, determined to discharge their duty with dignity, determination and distinction. I am inspired by words from the late Nelson Mandela Thus shall we live, because we will have created a society which recognizes that all people are born equal, with each entitled in equal measure to life, liberty, prosperity, human rights and good governance. Thank you for your kind attention and all success in your meetings. Even though the global economy has evolved significantly in the last few decades away from the industrial revolution which transformed many of the worlds advanced countries theres still much hope tied to the idea that manufacturing will play a key transformative role in developing countries in Africa today. Yet, it may be foolish to place too big a bet on manufacturing in Africa, according to a new research paper from US think tank, Center for Global Development. The researchers used World Bank data to look at 5,500 firms in 29 countries. They compared labor and capital costs, and productivity and efficiency of manufacturing in sub Saharan Africa with similar countries outside Africa, in particular Bangladesh. They did not have good news for most of the region. In a bid to find out if African countries can break into global manufacturing in a substantial way, the researchers found factories in Africa were almost always more expensive to start and run. Looking at overall costs, small African firms were 39% more expensive than comparative firms elsewhere while medium and large firms were around 50% more expensive. Take a middle income African country like South Africa: Labor costs were described as very high despite unemployment levels as high as 30%. A mix of structural factors, restrictive labor laws, and high minimum wages mean the continents most advanced economy, is not likely to emerge as a strong competitor in labor-intensive industry in the foreseeable future. Stable, coastal countries like Senegal, Kenya, and Tanzania seem like strong candidates for a role in global manufacturing, yet theyre still too expensive. The labor cost per Kenyan worker is $2,118 compared with Bangladesh, where its $835. The capital cost per Kenyan worker is nearly $10,000, but is less than $1,100 per worker in Bangladesh. As a middle income country, Kenya does have a higher GDP per capita ($1,116) versus Bangladesh ($853), but low income Senegal (GDP per capital $775) is still twice as expensive as Bangladesh in terms of labor and capital costs. There is good news, and its mostly all in Ethiopia. The researchers believe Ethiopia, already leading the way as Africas 21st century center for manufacturing has the best likelihood of being the New China as labor costs rise in the worlds factory and social issues such as child labor arise in some other Asian countries. Fashion brands like H&M, Guess, and J. Crew are already finding potential in Ethiopia, one of the few African countries whose labor costs ($909) are close to Bangladesh. The researchers are reluctant to speculate why African manufacturing costs are so high, but it isnt difficult to imagine what some of the challenges would be. A lack of infrastructure such as transport networks and stable electricity in many poor African countries plus low levels of education will mean factory running costs and training the African worker are going to be more expensive than they need to be. This can get exacerbated by unhelpful regulation and poor policy. Thats why the authors suggest carefully designed industrial policy to possibly unleash the potential for manufacturing and rapid industrialization. Download the CGD working paper here: Can Africa Be a Manufacturing Destination? Labor Costs in Comparative Perspective Africa Week 2017 is underway at the UN: update, downloads SADC-EU Economic Partnership Agreement: updates from yesterdays regional conference in Johannesburg. (i) Minister Davies, Cecilia Malmstrom mark first anniversary of the EPA, (ii) Cecilia Malmstrom speech on monitoring of EPA, impact, (iii) Peter Fabricius: South Africa fails to exploit free trade agreement access to massive EU market ACP Parliamentary Assembly: last weeks meeting, statement by Dr Patrick Gomes Later this week, in Rome: 13th annual meeting of the Infrastructure Consortium for Africa. Summary of background paper (pdf): Toward smart and integrated infrastructure for Africa an agenda for digitalisation, decarbonisation and mobility: In this perspective, the Next Production Revolution (NPR) represents a potential opportunity and a big challenge for Africa and its socio economic development, also due to the traditional leapfrogging attitude that has already characterized the straight and successful diffusion of a number of smart or clean innovations in the continent. Indeed, NPR entails a confluence of technologies ranging from a variety of digital technologies to new materials and processes. Moreover, in the 2030 Agenda of the United Nation, the 5 clusters of emerging technologies (bio-tech, digital-tech, nano-tech, neuro-tech and green-tech) are considered crucial for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Among the five clusters it emerges that Digital and Green Tech appear as the most relevant for the achievement of the SDGs like Health, Water, Energy, Ecosystem, Land, Ocean Management, Climate Change, Sustainable Production and Consumption patterns. Recognizing this relevance, Digital and Green Tech, broken down into digital infrastructure, sustainable energy infrastructure and smart mobility have become the core of ICA 2017. Africas $110bn migrant resources could fund continents infrastructure Oramah (Afreximbank) In a keynote address to the Frontier 100 Forum organized by the Initiative for Global Development, President Oramah said that those resources, composed of $53bn of savings and $63bn of annual remittances, were well in excess of the continents annual infrastructure financing requirements, currently estimated at about $93bn. He noted that since the early 2000s, migrant remittances had become the most important source of foreign currency inflows for many African countries and had become more important than FDI as a source of foreign exchange in many. Dr Oramah regretted that many Governments were yet to put in place policies and programmes to effectively harness the many significant benefits offered by the Diaspora, saying that lessons could be learned from the experience of countries like the Philippines, Israel, Bangladesh, India, and Mexico that had robust programmes to improve Diaspora participation in national economic activities. Can Sub-Saharan Africa be a manufacturing destination?: Vijaya Ramachandran blog (CGD) It is always risky to speculate on the future, especially considering evolving trends in technology which will shape the evolution of comparative and absolute advantage in manufacturing. However, a new paper co-authored by Alan Gelb, Christian Meyer, Divyanshi Wadhwa, and myself suggests that Africa is not, in general, poised to embark on a manufacturing-led take-off, stepping into the shoes of emerging Asia. Africa, including those countries that have come to be regarded as leaders in development, has high manufacturing labor costs relative to GDP as well as high capital costs relative to low-income comparators. Using a newly-constructed panel of firm-level data from the World Banks Enterprise Surveys, we look at labor costs in a range of low and middle income countries in sub-Saharan Africa. We then compare these with labor costs in low-cost countries outside of Africa such as Bangladesh as well as a wide range of other countries. We estimate labor costsboth actual and hypothetical: [Even Africas poorest countries are too expensive to be the worlds next manufacturing hub (Quartz Africa)] Joseph Stiglitz: From manufacturing led export growth to a 21st Century inclusive growth strategy for Africa (Babacar Ndiaye Lecture, Afreximbank, 15 October) South Africa: Economic overview with a focus on exports (Industrial Development Corporation) (i) Significant shifts in the global reach of South Africas export sector. The geographical reach and sectoral spread of South Africas merchandise export basket have improved over time, but high degrees of concentration prevail. Export trade has been shifting towards emerging market economies such as China and India, with the advanced economies combined share of the overall export basket having declined. The rest of Africa has become one of the largest markets for South Africas merchandise exports, accounting for 27.8% of the overall export basket in 2016, up from a 25.4% share in 2010. The extent of South Africas trade concentration is higher at the sectoral level, but has also been improving. The manufacturing sector accounted for 60% of the merchandise export basket in 2016, compared to 57.1% in 2010. Exports play an important role in terms of economic activity and employment creation. An estimated 1.23 million jobs in the South African economy, or more than 10% of total employment, are directly related to exports. The figure jumps to 2.53 million, or 21.4% of overall employment, if indirect exports (i.e. through linkages of export producers with input suppliers across the economy) are also taken into account. The European Union as an external market has contributed positively to the overall growth (in real terms) in South Africas merchandise exports from 2014 to the 1st semester of 2017 (refer to Figure 5). In contrast, the drop in exports to the United States and some members of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) in 2016 as well as in the 1st half of the current year implied negative contributions, or detractions from overall export growth. (ii) Changing composition of South Africas export basket. The product composition of South Africas export basket has also been changing, with the normalised Herfindahl-Hirschman Index improving from 22.1 in 2010 to 21.2 by 2016 that is, exhibiting increased diversification. Nevertheless, the export basket is still highly concentrated on a few sectors, especially within manufacturing, as well as heavily reliant on the mining sector for its foreign exchange earnings (refer to Figure 6). Mining exports accounted for approximately one-third of total merchandise exports in 2016, down from 38.4% in 2010. During the course of last year, weaker global commodity demand, especially from China, together with relatively low commodity prices and operational challenges in the domestic market took a toll on South Africas mining exports and consequently production across most segments. Over time, the historical reliance on gold has been substantially reduced, whereas iron ore and coal exports have come to the fore, as illustrated in Figure 7. The platinum group metals (PGMs) have also contributed to diversifying the composition of South Africas mineral export basket. Despite rising export volumes since the recent trough in 2012, the lower platinum price, which fell from an average of USD1 613 per ounce in 2010 to USD985 per ounce by 2016, contributed to the share claimed by PGMs within the countrys overall export basket declining from 10.1% in 2010 to 8.2% in 2016. As shown in Figure 6, the manufacturing sector accounted for 60% of the overall export basket in 2016, up from 57.1% in 2010. The composition of the manufacturing export basket has changed significantly, with a substantial rise in the relative contribution made by the motor vehicles sub-sector. This domestic sector is reaping the benefits of increased integration in global supply chains and is providing opportunities for domestic production (and exports) of parts and accessories for motor vehicles. The combined shares of the motor vehicles, parts and accessories sub-sectors in the total export basket rose from 11.3% in 2010 to 14.7% by 2016. Mozambique: Economic transformation and job creation (SET) The SET report on economic transformation and job creation in Mozambique synthesises 30 recent studies to understand commonalities and differences on promising sectors and value chains in Mozambique, binding constraints to developing these activities, and policies that have been suggested to achieve these. Thus, rather than undertaking new analysis, this synthesis paper reflects on existing analyses broadly related to industrialisation and economic transformation in Mozambique in order to provide a base from which to move forward on the specifics of how to transform the economy. [The authors: Neil Balchin, Peter Coughlin, Phyllis Papadavid, Dirk Willem te Velde, Kasper Vrolijk] Dangote, Mbeki launch Africa Champions Initiative in Lagos (ThisDay) Prominent African leaders under the aegis of the Afrochampions Initiative, at the weekend, charted a course to transform the continent with the aim to make it a destination for international investments. The initiative, jointly chaired by Africans richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and former President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, called for greater integration of African economies to enable the continent develop free trade among African Union member nations. Present at the launch were the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former President Olusegun Obasanjo,Commissioner for Trade and Industry of the African Union, Ambassador Albert Muchanga, Aig Imokhuede, Executive Secretary of Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Segun Awolowo among others. Dangote promised to work with his colleagues to make the club a unique platform on which We as African business leaders, can overcome our differences and speak with one voice, to foster reforms facilitating trade between our states with investments in strategic projects and synergies between our countries. Nigeria: Some take ways from the NESG summit (Business Day) For three days, players in the public and private sector gathered in Abuja to brainstorm and proffer solution to the many challenges of the Nigerian economy. They have been doing this for 23 years now and some sceptics say that it has not changed much in the Nigerian economy. Organisers of the of the Nigeria Economic Summit, the Nigeria Economic Summit Group disagree, noting that these annual discussions have done much good to Nigeria and that the economy would have been much worse off without these annual discussions. The annual summit has become Nigerias version of the World Economic Forum. [Osinbajo: FG attains 70% success in ease of doing business action plan] No policy on visa on arrival for Africans Nigeria Immigration Service (Business Day) Nigerian Immigration Service, on Monday, dismissed trending report on issuance of visa on arrival for Africans by the Federal Government. As the Federal Government of Nigerias lead and foremost agency saddled with the responsibility for the regulation and enforcement of migration laws of the country, the Nigeria Immigration Service states clearly that; no such decision was in place, it is an unconfirmed and yet to be considered policy of the government of Nigeria. Call for new momentum to fast-track free movement in Africa (New Times) Policies that govern movement of persons and services on the continent must be tailored to the current needs of Africans, experts have urged. The call was made yesterday in Kigali at the opening of a weeklong meeting on the adoption of an African Union procedure on Migration, Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons, seen as a critical forum to advance the continents goal on free movement of persons and their goods. The gathering kicked off yesterday with a meeting of the AUs Specialised Technical Committee on Migration, Refugees and Internally Displaced persons, who have a duty to deliberate on and draft several critical documents that will be adopted by African Ministers in charge of migration matters during their meetings on Friday and Saturday. Ghana to open up borders to West African neighbours (Graphic) The Minister for Business Development, Mr Ibrahim Mohammed Awal has said the country will soon open up its borders to its West African counterparts in a bid to foster trade between the country and its neighbours. He said plans were far advanced to open up the countrys borders to Benin and Niger, as it had already opened up to Togo. This he said formed part of plans to expand business operations through regional integration. The Managing Director for Emerging Markets and Africa of Deloitte, Dr Martyn Davies, also in an interview with the GRAPHIC BUSINESS called on the need to have a business hub for the West African region. He said every region needed a hub and just like Nairobi is the hub of East Africa and Johannesburg is the hub of South Africa, I think Ghana can also be the hub for West Africa. Africa vs the USA: a secondhand clothing showdown (BoF) Linda Calabrese argues that halting the trade of second hand clothing isnt the right approach and wont enable the development of textile industries in developing countries alone. The garment sector [in developing nations] needs more investment to expand production capacity. The sector is currently not receiving a lot of new investment to expand production capacity, and costs are outweighing profits. Transport is expensive, getting skilled workers is expensive, the energy supply is unreliable and costly compared to other regions, such as Southeast Asia. It could also have undesirable effects, like promoting illegal trade and smuggling in banned imports, if the population has to choose between buying new imported garments, or buying domestically produced second-rate goods. Clothes are an essential item and if they become more costly, poor families will suffer the most, says Calabrese, but adds: To be fair, I think that East African governments already have a very good understanding of the existing challenges and are trying to address them. Dubai Africa business forum to host 5 heads of state (TradeArabia) The upcoming fourth Global Business Forum on Africa in Dubai, UAE is set to welcome five African heads of state, 12 ministers, and more than 1,000 top-level government and corporate decision-makers and industry experts. The forum, organised by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will be held under the theme Next Generation Africa on 1-2 November. The event will bring together high-profile attendees such as Paul Kagame (Rwanda); Danny Faure (Seychelles); Yoweri Museveni (Uganda); Ameenah Gurib-Fakim (Mauritius); and Edgar Lungu (Zambia); along with a long list of ministers, senior government officials, young African entrepreneurs, economic and industry experts. [Reposted: Bridging the Red Sea how to build an Africa-Gulf partnership] Alarm bells as more developing countries become commodity-dependent (UNCTAD) The new UNCTAD report The State of Commodity Dependence 2016 highlights that between 2010-2015 developing countries saw their revenue from commodity exports jump 25% to US$ 2.55 trillion. The rise in commodity dependence was most noticeable in Africa, where seven new countries entered the category in 2014-2015, bringing the total to 46. Over the same period, the number remained stable at 28 in Latin America and the Caribbean, while the region of Asia and Oceania saw its total increase by two to 17. Regarding the type of exports, dependence was predominantly on agricultural goods. This was the case for 41% of the countries, while 30% depended on fuel exports and 23% on minerals, ores and metals. More than half of the countries depending on agricultural commodity exports were African, while the region of Asia and Oceania was home to two thirds of those relying on minerals, ores and metals, and almost half of those dependent on the export of fuels. CITS American Express Global Business Travel 2017 China Business Travel Barometer indicates that Belt and Road opportunities are considered a key factor in rising business travel budgets The CITS American Express Global Business Travel 2017 China Business Travel Survey (the Barometer) has revealed that 31% of Chinese companies expect travel budgets to rise over the next twelve months. The figure reflects increasing business confidence, as only 17% of respondents predicted budget increases when asked the same question last year. Forty percent of organizations have reported plans to expand budgets because of opportunities presented by the Belt and Road initiative. These results were released during the thirteenth annual China Business Travel Forum (CBTF), held in Shanghai today. Last year, China became the country with the largest business travel expenditure in the world, overtaking the United States*. Despite 75% of China's business travel spend being domestic**, its increasingly outward looking approach to global commerce is likely to create opportunities for international business travel in future. China's Belt and Road Initiative*** is one such example of a major investment project that could benefit Chinese organizations with an international travel program (43% of companies), as well as those with a regional program (21% of companies). "The results of this year's China Business Travel Barometer are hugely positive, and a strong indication of the opportunities Chinese organizations are recognizing both domestically but also in the global economy," said Kevin Tan, Vice President of CITS American Express Global Business Travel. "While our research indicates an intent to increase business travel budgets over the next year, when we look deeper we find that the intention to increase spending also comes with some strategic reallocation of expenditure. This is particularly noticeable when considering the number of organizations that have reported plans to reduce spend on internal meetings. It is apparent that businesses continue to acknowledge the importance of client-facing travel." Financial returns from business travel are clear and measurable This year's Barometer highlighted the importance of business travel as a key driver of revenue for many Chinese organizations, with 90% reporting that increased client-facing travel would likely increase revenue. Additionally, more than half of the respondents (53%) believe an increase in client-related travel would improve overall revenue by 10-20%. Developing new business relationships, and maintaining existing clients were also listed as the top two reasons for business travel. Beyond simply acknowledging the value of business travel to overall company bottom line, most of Chinese organizations also reported having systems in place to measure the return on investment (ROI) of business travel. Forty one percent of organizations currently track the level of business travel expenditure required to sign a new business deal on a monthly basis. More than half of companies also claimed to measure business travel ROI by linking business travel spend to company revenue, reviewing T&E programs with C-level management, regularly aligning travel program with business strategy, and linking business travel spend to converting prospects or maintaining client relationships. Interestingly, almost half of the respondents (46%) in this year's Barometer say their company could save 10-20% of their total travel budget from better budget management. Twenty percent of larger companies also stated they are likely to replace close to half of all internal meetings with video or teleconferencing within the next year. In addition to saving money from better budget management, many companies also identified indirect costs and opportunity costs as key areas of focus. For example, 40% of companies reported requiring pre-trip approvals by manual paper or email, which can lead to inefficiencies compared with automated processes. "The research tells us Chinese companies believe there are savings to be identified within their current travel budgets, and that many intend to put measures in place to realize some of these savings in the next year. When we consider the belief among many organizations that client-facing business travel drives revenue growth, it will be interesting to see whether companies look to strategically reallocate their business travel savings to other areas of the travel program," said Mr. Tan. Organizational goals must be balanced with traveler experience concerns The voice of the traveler seems to be growing in importance again this year, with the Barometer revealing Chinese organizations currently view their comfort and wellbeing as being equally important to cost, while safety considerations are most important. Inflexible travel policies (30%) and complex reimbursement processes (23%) were reported as the top two complaints for business travelers. With 30% of companies reporting travel policy compliance below 75%, steps which improve overall traveler experience could increase compliance and reduce overall costs. "Companies that balance traveler concerns with appropriate cost saving measures are the most likely to see a significant financial benefit. The Barometer's findings indicate that the strictest cost-savings measures, such as an inflexible travel policy, are likely to result in false-savings due to lower policy compliance," said Mr. Tan. New technologies must be balanced with operational realities Many Chinese organizations (58%) have identified new technology and tools as a means for creating cost savings in their travel budgets. Other cost saving strategies identified by Chinese companies included streamlining costs through enhanced negotiations with suppliers (60%), and improving communication of travel policy (59%). Savings through enhanced negotiations with suppliers was considered a greater priority among smaller companies (70%) than larger companies (43%), indicating they could likely benefit from a travel management company negotiating on their behalf. "Emerging technologies are enabling companies to reconsider their approaches to business travel. While tools such as videoconferencing have created new opportunities, this hasn't replaced the value of face-to-face meetings. Every business is different and companies need to ensure their travel program is tailored to a company's specific needs," said Mr. Tan. The Barometer is an annual report detailing the status of, as well as forecasts for, China business travel. The 2017 Barometer surveyed executives from 150 companies in China, ranging from small enterprises with 200 employees to large companies with well above 1,000 staff. These organizations are in major economic areas, such as Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, as well as tier two and tier three cities. * According to the GBTA BTI Outlook China 2016 H1, a report by the GBTA Foundation. ** Announced in 2013, The Belt and Road Initiative is a Chinese-led development strategy designed to strengthen economic relations across East Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Through an investment projected to surpass US$1 trillion, the plan will deliver infrastructure such as roads, railways, telecommunications, energy pipelines, and ports, to over 60 countries. *** Includes Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau. SOURCE CITS American Express Global Business Travel Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Travel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2022 Travel Industry Wire The only people who benefit from the hydrogen economy are the oil and petrochemical companies that make the stuff. Hydrogen is in the news again. Bianca Nogrady writes in Ensia that, "As the price of renewable energy drops and storage technologies mature, hydrogen fuel is drawing fresh attention." US Department of Energy/Public DomainThis TreeHugger has long been skeptical about hydrogen because it is not a fuel. Even the US Department of Energy infographic that Nogrady includes in the article calls it "a clean, flexible energy carrier" - a battery. This is a fundamentally important distinction. Nogrady writes: This is all going to be possible because the economics of hydrogen production are evidently changing. According to Jenny Hayward, senior research scientist at CSIRO and co-author of its 2018 National Hydrogen Roadmap: Youve got production coming down in cost, but also youve got utilization coming down in cost, Hayward says. Not only has the price of electricity from solar photovoltaic and wind dramatically decreased, but electrolyzer technologies have also become much cheaper, larger-scale and more efficient. At the same time, hydrogen fuel cells are also improving both in efficiency and cost, she says. Nogrady also points out that some of the problems we have complained about with hydrogen are being fixed, like the difficulties of storage (better tanks) and the efficiencies of fuel cells. She notes that a great benefit is that hydrogen cars fill up fast, quoting a consultant who says, In operations for trucks, for taxis, for emergency response services, you have to have the range and the refueling time that is similar to conventional vehicles. And the tech is getting so much better. Morry Markowitz, president of the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association says, In the transportation sector and other areas, hydrogen vehicles meet or exceed anything thats on the road today. A big change in the hydrogen situation is that we used to write about it being a shill for the nuclear industry. Now hydrogen is seen as a way of storing renewables and beating the intermittency problem of when the wind doesn't blow or the sun shine. In places like sunny Australia, they could make power all day and run generators on hydrogen at night. It might even get distributed through gas infrastructure (although because of embrittlement, only in the plastic pipes). But it's almost all made from fossil fuels! The proud sponsors of the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association/Screen capture This all sounds terrific. Is it time to hang up my skepticism and embrace the hydrogen revolution? Should I stop complaining that the people behind the Hydrogen Energy Association are all car manufacturers and chemical companies? Perhaps, but down near the bottom of the article, Nogrady mentions a hiccup. The stubborn hero refused to leave his goats ... miraculously, they all survived the firestorm.. At 10:30 pm, Roland Tembo Hendel smelled the smoke from the Tubbs fire that would go on to devastate much of the city of Santa Rosa, California. Hendel surveyed the property by ATV but saw nothing. By 10:55 the sky had turned orange and he told his daughter to get ready to leave; 15 minutes later they saw the first of the flames across the valley. They quickly gathered up the dogs and cat into the car, but Odin, their stubborn and fearless goat-guarding Great Pyrenees refused to leave his charges. Even under the best of circumstances it is nearly impossible to separate Odin from the goats after nightfall when he takes over the close watch from his sister Tessa. I made a decision to leave him, and I doubt I could have made him come with us if I tried. We got out with our lives and what was in our pockets, recounts Hendel in a Facebook post. Cars behind us on Mark West Springs Road were pouring flames out of the windows as they roared down the road. Later that morning when we had outrun the fires I cried, sure that I had sentenced Odie to death, along with our precious family of bottle-raised goats. As soon as they could return, they sneaked past evacuation roadblocks to find a smoldering wasteland of forest, every structure was gone. But among the charred ruins, Odin and the goats appeared ... and a few baby deer that Odin had adopted during the ordeal as well. Eight goats came running to see us and get cuddles and kisses. Dixon has a burn on his back the size of a nickel. Other than that they are perfectly fine." says Hendel. "Odins fur is burned and his whiskers melted. He is limping on his right leg. And he has adopted several baby deer who huddle around him for safety and water from their trough, which is miraculously intact and full of relatively clean water. Here they are after the initial reunion: In the ensuing days, Hendel has managed to sneak back into the evacuated area and get the goats out. They are all resting comfortably at a shelter barn, and Odin has been given a clean bill of health by the vet. The family set up a fundraising page, and has already raised enough to rebuild their pumphouse and filtration system, build a new barn, and repair the fence around the perimeter of the property. As for the deer, they left them with a two-week supply of food and water. Hendel writes: "With this in mind, we have decided that going forward, for every $1 we receive, 50 cents will go toward a replacement trailer for Odin's and Tessa's goats, and 50 cents will go to the Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue Center, where we once took downed animals we found on our land. This will provide care for animals affected by this tragedy, that Odin could not care for himself. Once the trailer is covered, all remaining funds will go to SCWRC." In a catastrophe that has seen so much devastation, stories like this bring some light to a steady stream of otherwise grim news. Maybe Odin and the goats were just lucky, maybe Odin used his herding prowess to save the goats and deer. But regardless, the image of those sweet goats and Odin's selfless wagging tail among the charred moonscape of the Hendel's property is salve for a rough week. "Odin has lived up to his namesake," says Hendel. "Pray for him and his charges. He is our inspiration. If he can be so fearless in this maelstrom, surely so can we." Just a heads up. We returned from beautiful punta cana two weeks ago. During our amazing week we walked down to the colourful huts that are owned by the beautiful Dominican locals to buy some things to bring home. The Mosquitos were aggressive there and not one was Seen at the riu bambu. Anyways, I did get bitten and didn't think anything of it. Exactly one week after our encounter I developed a horrible rash with massive amounts of hives head to toe. A high fever and pain in my joints like the flu x a million. After seeing doctors here and looking into it further we've found out I was bitten by an infected mosquito. It's been 2 weeks since we got home and I've just returned to work. In still having to take antihistamines and Tylenol. To top it off because my immunity was low on the airplane I picked up a nasty respiratory infection from all the sick people in the flight. In all our trips to Dominican and Mexico we've never had a mosquito problem and never brought bug spray. Again... we went off the resort and because the resorts spray there wasn't an issue on the resort. So please save yourself the agony I had and am still having and bring bug spray. This virus has no cure and my joints and hives could go for months. Very upsetting and I've cried a lot. I've lost 10 lbs in a week. Protect yourselves and your loved ones. I have not been to Bocas del Toro. But many people ask about going there from Puerto Viejo so just do a search on the forum. On the southern Caribbean coast I would stay in Cahuita and in Manzanillo (or maybe Punta Uva). If you just want one place and you choose Cahuita make sure to take a bus to Puerto Viejo and explore the beaches south of PV for the day (you can rent bikes). If you stay south of PV make a day trip to the National Park in Cahuita. It is amazing. I have not been to Monteverde so I don't consider it a must. Actually, lots of people find it too touristy, too mucky, too hard to get to... I did say I like cloud forests but if I had to pick a cloud forest in Costa Rica I would probably go to San Gerardo de Dota before I went to Monteverde as it is less touristy. Cloud forests are nice if you like lush vegetation. But they are not the easiest places to spot wildlife. The wildlife is there. It is just not always easy to see. So you could fly to Drake Bay. Once you are back in San Jose you could fly to Tortuguero (or take bus/boat). Then from Tortuguero book the scenic boat ride to Moin and take a taxi from Moin to Cahuita (or a taxi to Limon and a bus to Cahuita). From Cahuita it is 30 minutes by bus to Puerto Viejo. If you decide to skip Monteverde you could maybe go to Sarapiqui before Tortuguero. You only have 13 full days. So 4 days Drake Bay. 3 days Tortuguero (including the day to get there). 4 days Cahuita and Puerto Viejo (including the day to get there). That only leaves two days for Monteverde (and you would have to get there and back... the bus from San Jose takes 5 hours). Or you could go to Bocas del Toro but I don't know if that is worth it for only one night. https://www.puertoviejosatellite.com/transportation-from-puerto-viejo-to-bocas-del-toro.php Hi all, I'm currently traveling with a friend. We end on Cat Ba on the 20th is Oct, she will then fly back home, I have one more week to go. On my list are Ninh Binh and Phong Na Ke Bang as must see, Mai Chau ideally if possible. (Fly back from Hanoi Friday night 27-28 Oct). I'm doing a bit of research But can't really decide what is the best itinerary when coming from Cat Ba.( first back to hanoi, motorbike to Mai Chau and then down, or directly from Cat ba to Ninh Binh by bus...) All tips and welcome ! Thanks a lot! Fleur Hello I am arriving at Haneda international at 5am and want to travel to Kyoto by the shinkansen that morning. I have read that the shinkansen starts it's journey at Shinagawa, is this correct? Would this be easier for me than going into Tokyo main station? Any help/ advice would be really appreciated. This link will take you directly to the Search page: https://www.eki-net.com/pc/jreast-shinkansen-reservation/English/wb/JRTicket/SeatReservation/RouteSearch.aspx Select "Chuo Line (Shinjuku-Matsumoto)" When you enter your time and date, you will see the Azuma on the next page. Hi All I am planning a trip to Japan later this year and the dates of my planned travel are shown below. I'm hoping that I can draw on all your experiences in Japan to help me out with what is best for me in terms of travelling around. I was initially thinking of getting a SUICA card and a 7 day JR pass which I'll activate just before I leave for Hakone from Kyoto. Budget is not so much an issue but just want to be efficient and smart with how I spend my money. I hope you guys can help! 23 Dec 2017 - Arrive in Osaka 25 Dec 2017 - Leave Osaka / Arrive Kyoto 27 Dec 2017 - Day trip to Nara from Kyoto 29 Dec 2017 - Leave Kyoto / Arrive Hakone 31 Dec 2017 - Leave Hakone / Arrive Tokyo 6 Jan 2018 - Leave Tokyo Would you have any advice on what sort of combination of passes I should consider? (Regional passes or national pass?) How would you plan which pass I should get given the detail above? Can I use the SUICA card to travel from Osaka to Kyoto? Thanks! Re: Land in narita, go straight to hakone, go to osaka next day 4. Re: Land in narita, go straight to hakone, go to osaka next day Try to use GoogleMaps. http://goo.gl/MKgAmj Click the train mark at the upper left. Leave now to be about one hour later than the arrival, Depart at 3:00 PM on Oct 30. OPTIONS to be Routes/Fewer transfers for your case. Then, you would see that you would be arrived at your Ryokan around 5:30 PM. Repeat the procedure after pushing reverse button to set the departure to be your Ryokan. Fill in the next destination, your hotel in Osaka. Repeat until your departure from Narita. Or, you could try to use Japan Transit Planner. This could be used for buses as well. But it needs the bus stop name. I pick up the result from GoogleMaps here. https://goo.gl/ZWXxRW Your choice should be marked with green Easy (transfers) and red Fast (in time). In this case, the result is basically similar to that by Google Maps. If the total fare in the repetitions above goes over the price of a Japan Rail Pass, try to find a possible gain by a use of JRP with this dedicated tool. https://world.jorudan.co.jp/mln/en/japan-rail-pass/ Edited: 5 years ago Hi! In which area did you stay in Tokyo and Kyoto? Also do you think a day trip is enough in Osaka? Did you take the bullet train for the trips between cities ? Thanks 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. -The National Police service has confirmed the attack on IEBC election officials training in Nyanza -Police officers have been directed to take firm action against groups attempting to interfere with IEBC officials -NASA supporters have been attacking IEBC training centers in their strongholds - Attacks on participant in the training have been witnessed in Siaya and Kisumu counties The National Police service released a statement on Tuesday October 17, confirming the attack on IEBC polling clerks training in Awasi-Kisumu County, Bondo and Gem in Siaya County. In the statement, they have warned against any form of harassment , threats, intimidation and unlawful interference with any IEBC training as a breach of the law under both electoral laws and Penal code. READ ALSO: DP Ruto: IEBC can go ahead and meet NASA's irreducible demands Statement from the National police service on IEBC training attacks. Photo: National Police Service READ ALSO: NASA's top financier lavish hotel shut down amidst raid on his Muthaiga home The officers have been directed to take firm action against anyone or any group of persons attempting to interfere or prevent IEBC officials from carrying out their lawful activities. NASA supporters have been attacking IEBC training centers in their strongholds as they threaten to boycott the forthcoming repeat Presidential election on October 26. READ ALSO: NASA's top financier moves to court to stop arrest Ongoing training of IEBC polling clerks to carry out election on October 26. Photo: IEBC/Facebook READ ALSO: Do not bury victims of NASA protests, leave them for the dogs- Socialite Huddah Monroe Raila Odinga, NASA principal, has been vocal on asking supporters to boycott IEBC activities including participating in the repeat presidential polls, which he has since withdrawn from. ALSO WATCH: Police clash with anti-IEBC demonstrators Source: TUKO.co.ke 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. The West should provide Ukraine with modern defensive weapons and deploy UN peacekeepers along the border with Russia in order to stop the bloodshed in Donbas, former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen has said. "Europe, Canada and the United States now have the opportunity to foster a political solution to this war: first, by providing defensive equipment to the Ukrainian soldiers; and second, by deploying a robust United Nations peacekeeping mission to the Donbas region," he wrote in an article for Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail. He recalled that Russia itself announced its own proposal for UN peacekeepers. "Moscow's draft Security Council resolution turned out to be a typical Putin bluff, contradicting numerous UN principles, meaning it cannot be accepted in its current form. But instead of dismissing it, the West should call the bluff and reshape Moscow's latest trap into a window for peace, using a combination of carrots and sticks," Rasmussen said. In his opinion, providing defensive systems to Ukraine would serve as the sticks and easing sanctions against Russia as the carrots. "Russia delivers on the withdrawal of troops and the restoration of Ukrainian sovereignty, we could offer the greatest carrot: easing sanctions. This cannot be offered as piecemeal; full sanctions relief can only come when all of Russia's obligations are met," Rasmussen wrote. He added that the international community could avoid the freezing of the conflict if it properly forms the mandate of a peacekeeping mission. "The Security Council can avoid that by drawing red lines: first, to insist the mission stretches all the way to the Ukraine-Russia border to avoid turning the contact line into a de facto new border; and second, it should protect the population and infrastructure, not just the international monitors operating in the area," reads the article. op Russian-backed militants launched 28 attacks on positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in ATO area in Donbas in last day. This is reported by the ATO press center. "Over the past day, illegal armed groups violated the ceasefire 36 times. The Ukrainian Armed Forces opened fire on the enemy 28 times. As a result of the fighting, one Ukrainian serviceman was killed and two soldiers were wounded. One soldier was fatally wounded in the explosion of an unknown explosive device," the statement reads. In Donetsk direction, illegal armed formations used small arms and heavy machine guns to shell Ukrainian strongholds near the Butivka coal mine. The enemy also fired small arms at the outskirts of Kamyanka (62km south of Donetsk). In Mariupol direction, Russian-backed militants launched attacks on Ukrainian positions near Vodiane (16km north-west of Donetsk), using heavy machine guns and automatic grenade launchers. Terrorists also opened fire from anti-tank grenade launchers near Pavlopol (30 km northeast of Mariupol) and Novotroitske (32km south of Donetsk). In Luhansk direction, Ukrainian positions near Novooleksandrivka (65km west of Luhansk) came under machine gun fire. Militants used anti-tank grenade launchers and machine guns to shell Ukrainian positions near Stanytsia Luhanska (16km north-east of Luhansk) and Valuiske (20km north-east of Luhansk). ish Active cooperation between Ukraine and Canada helps deter Russia's aggressive behavior, Canadian Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan has said. He stated this at a meeting with the Ukrainian community, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "Through our trade agreement, military partnership, cultural ties and cooperation with NATO, Canada sends a very strong signal of deterrence to Russia," Sajjan said. He said that Canada had deliberately placed its troops in Latvia in order to ensure that the events in Donbas could not repeat in the Baltic States. According to him, a strong Ukraine is the best illustration of the failure of Russia's actions. At the NATO summit in 2016, Canada agreed to send its troops and equipment to Latvia and lead a multinational battalion, which currently stays in the Baltic States to contain possible Russian aggression. op The Association of European and Mediterranean Gendarmeries and Police Forces with Military Status (FIEP) has awarded full member status to the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU), the NGU press service reports. At the summit of directors and commanders of the Association of European and Mediterranean gendarmeries and Police Forces with Military Status in the city of Amman (Jordan) on October 16, a decision was approved to grant the National Guard the status of a full member of the Association. For this decision, participants voted unanimously, reads the report. According to Deputy Commander of the National Guard Major General Mykola Balan, who represented Ukraine, granting the status of a full member is the recognition of the National Guard as an equal law enforcement structure among similar structures not only in Europe but throughout the world. iy Two Ukrainian soldiers were killed as a result of military operations in the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) zone in eastern Ukraine over the past day. Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Spokesperson for ATO issues Oleksandr Motuzianyk said this at a press briefing on Tuesday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "As a result of hostilities over the past day, two [Ukrainian soldiers] were killed, two were wounded. One soldier was killed in enemy shelling near Kamianka, another soldier was killed in a blast of unknown origin near Nevelske, Motuzianyk said. He also reported about an increase in the number of ceasefire violations by Russian-backed militants. Thus, in the Luhansk direction, the enemy shelled the Ukrainian army positions five times, in the Donetsk direction 20 times, and in the Mariupol directions 11 times. iy A delegation of the Defense Ministry of Ukraine headed by First Deputy Defense Minister Ivan Rusnak held talks with a delegation of the Defense Ministry of the Republic of Lithuania headed by Vice Minister of National Defense of the Republic of Lithuania Vytautas Umbrasas. The parties discussed issues related to further development of the Lithuanian-Ukrainian defense cooperation, the press service of the Defense Ministry of Ukraine reported. "We praise your political and practical assistance and believe in further defense support and cooperation. Lithuania is our partner assisting us to implement reforms under NATO standards. Particularly, in terms of training of Ukrainian service personnel and reforms of the NCO corps under international standards," Rusnak said. According to Mr Umbrasas, Lithuania and Ukraine have a lot in common. He reaffirmed the Lithuanian readiness to support Ukrainian army in training Ukrainian soldiers, strategic communications, and treatment of wounded soldiers. ish The trade turnover between Ukraine and Malta has grown by 26% over the eight months of the current year. President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko told this to journalists after a meeting with President of the Republic of Malta Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, who is currently on an official visit in Ukraine, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "The trade turnover between our countries has increased by a record 26% in the eight months of this year," Poroshenko said. iy The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU), as well as the Finance Ministry, believes that Ukraine may receive the next IMF tranche as part of the EFF (Extended Fund Facility) program by the end of the year. Acting NBU Governor Yakiv Smoliy said this in an exclusive interview with Ukrinform. "We hope for that," he said, when asked to comment whether Ukraine can expect a tranche from the IMF by the end of the year. In this regard, he noted that there was currently a process of talks with the IMF, "and we expect the arrival of the [IMF] mission in Kyiv later in the autumn, so hope remains." Smoliy also said that the IMF's decision on the current tranche for Ukraine would depend on the timely adoption of several bills. "You know that the law on pension reform was adopted in Ukraine. Some work was also done on privatization and anti-corruption courts. The issue of land reform was postponed, but it is not removed from the agenda. Negotiations are underway in this direction," he said. In addition, a new formula for the gas price in Ukraine is being discussed bilaterally. This question "is included in the package, as it was a commitment to automatic price adjustments in the event of an appropriate environment on foreign markets," he said. As Ukrinform reported, Finance Minister Oleksandr Danyliuk, following talks at the IMF headquarters in Washington, also said he expected the IMF tranche for Ukraine by the end of this year. op Ukraine is interested in using Malta's unique experience and logistics capabilities to promote domestic products to the North African market, President Petro Poroshenko has said. He stated this at a joint briefing with Maltese President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca on Tuesday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "Malta for Ukrainian business is actually the gateway to the North African market," Poroshenko said. In this context, he noted that thanks to its exclusive experience this country could provide logistics and consulting services not only to big business, but also to small- and medium-sized enterprises in Ukraine. "Detailed negotiations were held today on logistics services for exporters of Ukrainian agricultural and engineering products. We agreed to have great progress in this extremely important area, using Malta as a de facto logistics and investment hub," Poroshenko said. According to him, a promising area of cooperation between Ukraine and Malta is the exchange of modern technologies, including in the field of energy efficiency and energy conservation. "We will effectively apply the unique experience of Malta," he said. He also said that he had discussed with the Maltese president the development of engineering services, construction of infrastructure, cooperation in the fields of healthcare, pharmacology, financial transactions, and information technology. op Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman believes that Ukraine and the Republic of Malta should strengthen economic cooperation. He said this during a meeting with President of the Republic of Malta Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca in Kyiv, the Governmental portal reported. "We welcome the readiness of our chambers of commerce and industry to establish a bilateral permanent Cooperation Council in the field of modern technologies and services," Groysman said. He has noted that it is necessary to strengthen the economic component of cooperation between two states. According to the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, for seven months of 2017, the bilateral trade turnover increased almost threefold - up to USD 36.8 million. The prime minister has assured that Ukraine is following the path of reforms and has already achieved some success. In turn, the president of Malta assured that her government was and will be a friend of Ukraine. The idea of creating a Cooperation Council will help develop the economy of two states and deepen the investment cooperation. ish Ukrainian lawmaker Oleksandr Onyshchenko, who is suspected of organizing a corruption scheme and is currently hiding from Ukrainian justice abroad, claims that he received political asylum on April 4. "I was granted asylum on April 4," he told Ukrayinska Pravda online newspaper. He did not specify what country granted him asylum, saying only it was not the UK. As a reminder, on July 5, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine agreed to allow criminal prosecution, detention, and arrest of Onyshchenko. Ahead of this move, he fled Ukraine having taken advantage of his parliamentary immunity. Onyshchenko is suspected of "creating a criminal organization for the purpose of taking possession of the funds derived from the sale of natural gas produced by operators of joint venture companies under agreements on cooperation with PJSC Ukrgazvydobuvannia. According to preliminary data, as a result of this gas scheme, the state suffered damage in the amount of UAH 3 billion. Currently, Oleksandr Onyshchenko is on the national wanted list. Interpol refused to put Onyshchenko on an international wanted list. ol Ukraine has been elected to the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) with a mandate for the next three years after the vote at a plenary meeting of the UN General Assembly on Monday, October 16. During the vote, Ukraine was supported by 177 member states of the organization, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "On Monday, Ukraine was elected to the UN Human Rights Council for 2018-2020. As a newly elected HRC member, Ukraine will use all mechanisms to combat human rights abuses in the temporarily occupied territory of Crimea and in Donbas," spokesman for Ukraine's Permanent Mission to the United Nations Oleh Nikolenko told Ukrinform. He said that the Ukrainian delegation at the Human Rights Council "will focus on the prevention of human rights violations and will put forward its initiatives on this issue as part of the council's work." op Canada is "optimistic" about possible deployment of a UN peacekeeping mission in Donbas. Canadian Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan stated this at a meeting with the Ukrainian community, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "We share cautious optimism about a potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine if Ukraine will have an influence on it that is sufficient to meet its needs," Sajjan said. As reported, in September, after a meeting with the President of Ukraine in Toronto, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that "there is definitely a great potential for peacekeepers in the Ukrainian issue." ish The European Union will announce its position on the language article of the Ukrainian law on education after receiving an expert opinion the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini stated this after a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg on Monday, October 16, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "I raised the issue with [Ukrainian] President [Petro] Poroshenko in New York during our bilateral meeting, and we agreed that we will wait for the opinion of the Venice Commission that has been requested on the implementation of the law, and we will follow up with the Ukrainian authorities on this as European Union," Mogherini said. She noted that this issue was not a separate item on the agenda of the meeting, but was considered in the context of the discussion of EU policy in the field of human rights protection. op Head of Ukraine's Mission to NATO Vadym Prystaiko discussed with NATO's Deputy Secretary General Rose Gottemoeller issues on Ukraine's cooperation with NATO. This was reported by the press service of the Mission of Ukraine to NATO. During the meeting, the Alliance's assistance in carrying out reforms in the defense and security sectors of Ukraine was positively noted. The issue of preparation for the next meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Commission, which will take place in the nearest future at the Alliance Headquarters, was also raised. The Head of the Mission of Ukraine to NATO thanked the NATO side for its support of the participation of the Ukrainian team at the Invictus Games, which took place in late September in Canada. In turn, Rose Gottemoeller was impressed by the achievements of Ukrainian participants. ish President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko during a meeting with President of the Republic of Malta Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca discussed the issue of extending EU sanctions against Russia. Poroshenko said this to journalists after a meeting with the president of Malta, who is currently on an official visit in Ukraine, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "It's pleased to note that Malta as a reliable bilateral partner and a member state of the European Union is getting closer to Ukraine Together with the President of Malta we discussed the extension of EU sanctions against Russia, the European integration aspirations of Ukraine and the trade and economic cooperation. I thank Mrs. President for fruitful negotiations," Poroshenko said. ish Ukrainian Minister of Education and Science Lilia Hrynevych will meet with Polish Minister of National Education Anna Zalewska in Kyiv on October 17. The Education Ministry confirmed this information to an Ukrinform correspondent. "The ministerial meeting is scheduled for 16:00," the report reads. During the meeting, the parties will discuss Ukraines law on education that was adopted in September regarding the language of study for national minorities. As Ukrinform reported, the Verkhovna Rada adopted the law on education on September 5, which, in particular, regulates the use of the Ukrainian language in the education sector. On September 25, it was signed by the president. Relations between Hungary and Ukraine escalated due to Budapest's criticism of this law, in particular, its article on the language of study. Hungary, in particular, promised to block all European integration initiatives concerning Ukraine in the European Union. Budapest also threatened Kyiv with EU sanctions due to this law and the revision of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union. ish Russian aggression in Ukraine must end with resumption of the territorial integrity of Ukraine. Polish President Andrzej Duda said this during a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Warsaw, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "We have agreed that Ukraine is the main goal in the policy of NATO and the EU [in the east of Europe]. In addition, Ukraine has to resume its territorial integrity and the Russian aggression in Ukraine should end with the fact that Ukraine resumes control over its borders in accordance with international agreements and international law," Duda said. The president of Poland stressed that he expected Turkey to support NATO policy in the context of strengthening the eastern flank of the Alliance. ish Som Aun contracted malaria after moving to the Thma Baing district of Cambodia's Koh Kong province in 2002. Four years later, two of his children contracted the disease. For five years, his son, An, now 19, and daughter, Sreyna, now 12, remained infected because no effective treatment was available, he told VOA Khmer. "Sometimes the disease is healed for one month, but it would come back in the next two months," he said, adding they both exhibited high fevers and chills. His children, who work in banana plantations, were in and out of clinics, and "after they took medicines, they would be fine for a period of time, then they would have to go to the hospital if they were in serious condition," Aun said. The family resorted to hospitals infrequently, because transportation cost 200,000 riel to 300,000 riel (or about $50 to $75). Researchers are increasingly alarmed by the emergence of a strain of drug-resistant malaria in Cambodia, a so-called "superbug" that stares down the most commonly used anti-malaria drugs. The superbug, first identified in 2008 in Cambodia, has spread into parts of Vietnam, Thailand and Laos. Last month, scientists from the Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU) published a letter in The Lancet saying the superbug's spread throughout the Mekong area was a serious threat to malaria control and eradication. "A single mutant strain of very drug resistant malaria has now spread from western Cambodia to north-eastern Thailand, southern Laos and into southern Vietnam and caused a large increase in treatment failure of patients with malaria," says letter co-author Arjen Dondorp, and Oxford professor, in a MORU release. MORU is a collaborative effort involving Thailand's Mahidol University, Oxford University and the U.K.-based Wellcome Trust. "We are losing a dangerous race," Nicholas White, one of the letter's co-authors, said in the release. "The spread of this malaria 'superbug' has caused an alarming rise in treatment failures forcing changes in drug policy and leaving few options for the future." Local officials not concerned Huy Rekol, director of Cambodia's National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control (CNM), said he was not worried by the drug-resistant malaria. "In our country, we don't need to worry about matters of death or resistance because we have efficient drugs to use every day," he said. Malaria in Cambodia is caused by two types of viruses transmitted by female mosquitoes, according to the CNM. It identified several factors leading to a rise in malaria infections in 2015, including increasing mobility of people living in malaria-affected areas. Rekol said that about 10,000 infections were detected in 2017, but all those identified as contracting malaria were treated. He said that any resistance was "manageable," adding that more should be done to prevent transmission in the first place. Nguyen Thi Khe, a former official at the government Institute of Public Hygiene, told VOA Vietnamese that malaria was "not a serious issue in Vietnam right now," a sentiment that was repeated by other officials. Dondorp said it was worrying that Cambodian malaria officials appeared to be unconcerned by the reports of drug resistance, which he said could undo the gains of recent years. "In northeastern Thailand, Srisaket province is affected, almost all of Cambodia is affected, as well as southern Laos, and South Vietnam," Dondorp said in an email to VOA. In an email, he said, "The evolution and subsequent transnational spread of this single fit multidrug-resistant malaria parasite lineage is of international concern." A risk to Africa? Globally, an estimated 3.2 billion people in 95 countries and territories are at risk of being infected with malaria, according to the World Health Organization. Most of the deaths occur in Africa, and there, children age 5 and younger account for more than two-thirds of the deaths, according to WHO. The big worry is that the new strain of malaria may spread from the Mekong area to Africa. Dr. David Sullivan, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health who is affiliated with its Malaria Research Institute, said health officials in Africa have been monitoring the situation for several years and that the new bug has yet to appear there. But, Sullivan added, "in the age of global travel" he could not say there is "zero possibility" of it making the jump. However, "even if it does jump, it's not that super of a bug that it's going to leave us defenseless, as if we have no drugs at all for malaria." An analysis conducted at the request of the Malaria Policy Advisory Committee (MPAC), WHO's top advisory committee for malaria, found that while "the risk of drug-resistant malaria spreading to India and Africa cannot be discounted, the broad consensus was that drug-resistant parasites were more likely to emerge independently in other parts of the world than to spread directly from" the Mekong region consisting of Cambodia, Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR), Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam, according to Dr. Pedro Alonso, director of the Global Malaria Programme, in a Q&A published late last month on the committee's site. Alonso said that WHO experts do not "at this time" consider "the threat of antimalarial drug resistance a public health emergency of international concern." That drug-resistant malaria would emerge in Cambodia is not a surprise. "In the past 50 or 60 years, this is the fifth or sixth time this has happened," Sullivan said. "This is not new." The new strain "is able to be tackled and held in check," he said. "I understand the concern and the alarm, but I would not put a superbug label on it, although I can see why people have." "Treatment options for the new strain exist," Sullivan said, by either adding a drug to those usually prescribed, or extending the treatment duration of the current treatment. Substandard drugs Cambodia adopted one treatment, to which resistance has apparently grown, but has since switched to another. The resistance was identified in the western Cambodian region of Pailin, later spreading to northeastern Thailand and southern Laos, according to the letter published by The Lancet. Dondorp, deputy director of MORU, said in an email to VOA that resistance may have been encouraged by the use of substandard drugs to treat malaria. "Malaria is a disease of the poor and disenfranchised. These are often populations living in border areas and in or near to the forest," he said. For the last year, the deli that Egyptian-American Hatem El-Gamasy owns in Queens, New York has been the backdrop to on-air discussions on U.S. foreign policy and Middle Eastern affairs that are broadcast in Egypt. But when Egyptian broadcasters caught wind of his daytime job, the calls suddenly stopped. But VOAs Ramon Taylor reports that El-Gamasys dream to achieve journalistic success carries on. Europe looks set to have its youngest leader with Austria's 31-year-old Sebastian Kurz scoring a clear victory in Sunday's election. With most results in, the conservative foreign minister appears to have won over 31% of the vote still well short of a majority, meaning complex coalition talks lie ahead. As Henry Ridgwell explains, Kurzs victory was built largely on an anti-immigrant platform. Human Flow by internationally acclaimed artist and activist Ai Weiwei, highlights the plight of refugees around the world. The Chinese dissident is not the first to make a documentary about the displaced, but his film captures the massive flow of humanity on our planet from on high, using drones. Ai filmed in 23 different countries in 40 different refugee camps people fleeing war, environmental crises and religious persecution. VOAs Penelope Poulou spoke with the artist. Afghan officials say Taliban attacks in the country's south, west and east have killed at least 10 policemen. In southern Ghazni province, the insurgents stormed a security compound, using a suicide car, and killed at least seven policemen. Provincial chief police, Mohammad Zaman, says the attack in Andar district early on Tuesday morning triggered several hours of heavy fighting until the attackers were repelled. Zaman says the district compound has been destroyed. In western Farah province, police chief Abdul Maruf Fulad says the Taliban attacked a government compound in Shibkho district, killing three policemen. The Interior Ministry says a militant attack, including a suicide car bombing is underway in eastern Paktia province's capital, Gardez, where insurgents targeted a police training center. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for all three attacks. At least 52 people are dead and 200 more wounded in a terrorist attack on a police training center in eastern Afghanistan Tuesday. Officials say the attack began when a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training center in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province. After the explosion, a group of gunmen stormed the center and engaged in a shootout with police.. Hedayatullah Hameedi, the city's public health director, told reporters both civilians and police were among the casualties. A source in Paktia provincial government said the chief of Paktia police, Toralia Abydani, was also killed in the attack. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. . A similar attack took place Tuesday on a police compound in southern Ghazni province. The Associated Press says at least seven policemen were killed in that attack. Europe looks set to have its youngest leader with Austria's 31-year-old Sebastian Kurz of the conservative Peoples Party scoring a clear victory in Sunday's parliamentary election, winning around 32% of the votes cast. Kurz, who took the reins of the party earlier this year, told his jubilant supporters that The Austrian population gave us their confidence to bring about a new style of political culture and for a respectful relation to the other parties, and most importantly to advance Austria forward. His victory marks an extraordinarily rapid rise to the top of Austrian politics. Kurz transformed the fortunes of his Peoples Party, largely on an anti-migrant platform. On the campaign trail earlier this month, he promised supporters that he would strike a very clear path which is going to reduce illegal migration to zero, adding that migrants who set off illegally must be stopped at the border, taken care of and sent back. Elections in France and the Netherlands this year checked the momentum of right-wing populist parties in Europe. But Austria has shown it is still a political force, says Leopold Traugott of the analyst group Open Europe. Right wing populism certainly is not dead in Europe, particularly not in Austria. Austria was one of the main reception countries, but also transit countries during the refugee crisis in 2015. And still during this election campaign it was the meta-topic to which all other issues were combined. Kurzs rival, Heinz-Christian Strache leader of the far-right Freedom Party accuses Kurz of stealing his policies and political slogans on migration and Islam. Now we will see if they really mean it honestly or seriously, if they are even willing to have honest negotiations with us or not. And I'm telling you: you can rely on one thing. We are going to stay true to ourselves, Strache told supporters Sunday as it became clear his party had sealed second place. Coalition talks With all parties well short of a majority, tough coalition talks lie ahead. Analysts say a coalition agreement between the Peoples Party and the Freedom Party is now the most likely outcome of the election although other combinations are possible. The third-placed Social Democrats, hurt by scandals during the campaign, have not ruled out forming a coalition with either of the two right-wing parties. Its clear Kurzs Peoples Party tried to offset the challenge of the far right by taking a tough line on immigration, says Traugott. The question of how you can actually beat the populists is debated all over Europe. And at least in Austria, moving towards them certainly did not help. In Austria, as in other parts of Europe, analysts say voters express the same common concerns. In general globalization, digitalization, economic crisis, people are more and more insecure, people lose their jobs and even or especially less educated people have kind of a feeling that they can't keep up with modern times, a modern labor market and so on, says Alexandra Siegl, a polling analyst at the Vienna-based Peter Hajek Strategies, a political consultancy firm. Those same concerns were echoed in the French presidential election, won by another young leader who stormed the established political order Emmanuel Macron. Analysts say the similarities end there. While Macron is a cosmopolitan, a globalist as he calls himself, Sebastian Kurz clearly portrays a more conservative, traditionalist image, says Traugott. They are contrasting visions within the new generation of European political leaders. For the EU itself, analysts say the result in Austria will dampen hopes that 2016 the year of Brexit - marked the beginning of the end of the right-wing populist surge. Canada's foreign minister says there are "unconventional" and "troubling" proposals on the table as Canada, the United States and Mexico seek to update the North American Free Trade Agreement. The fourth round of talks on revising the 23-year-old NAFTA deal wrapped up Tuesday, with more talks set for Mexico next month and additional discussions early next year. Canada's Chrystia Freeland said proposals created "challenges," and "turn back the clock" on NAFTA. Failure could threaten jobs across North America, she said. In addition, ending NAFTA could hurt the North American teamwork that produces cars efficiently and makes them competitive with products from other regions, she added. Mexico's Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo said it was clear from the beginning that the talks would be tough and "we still have a lot of work to do." He also said all nations "have limits." U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said the United States faces a large trade deficit, and blamed NAFTA for the loss of manufacturing jobs. He expressed frustration that his negotiating partners were not willing to make changes to reduce those deficits. NAFTA was harshly criticized by candidate Donald Trump, and press reports say Washington has since proposed renegotiating the deal every five years, requiring more U.S.-made content in automobiles, and scaling back a mechanism to resolve disputes. Trump has blamed what he called poorly negotiated agreements for the loss of millions of manufacturing jobs that hurt the U.S. economy. He promised to drive harder bargains in trade deals. The Brookings Institution's Dany Bahar said trade deficits are not the cause of job losses, and called the U.S. focus misplaced. He said NAFTA's dispute resolution mechanism and some other provisions could use some updating. However, he told VOA that NAFTA is closer to collapse than in previous rounds of talks. Such a collapse would mean U.S.-made cars would become more expensive and less competitive on world markets, likely making the United States the "biggest loser" if the trade deal fails, he said. China's Communist Party is set to host a high-level meeting in Beijing that will usher in a much-anticipated reshuffle of the ruling party's top leadership. Strict security measures have been put in place, along with sweeping online censorship controls to ensure its success. Those measures include facial recognition and identification checks for passengers in and out of Beijing subway stations and on trains bound for the capital city, and the detention of a dozen of activists nationwide who had posted comments or shared information authorities deem threatening to political stability. While China's general public may view the tightening controls as a short-term extra-vigilant approach by top leadership ahead of this week's meetings, observers warn they are not passing trends. Instead, they say they are part of a long term vision of control. Changing the weather This is not about riding out a storm its about changing the weather, said David Bandurski, co-director of the China Media Project, an independent research program in partnership with the Journalism & Media Studies Centre at the University of Hong Kong, in a written reply to VOA. He said that, since late 2012, Chinese President Xi Jinping has managed to exercise a level of control over the media landscape that is unprecedented in the countrys reform era. Xis vision of control is evident in the recent crackdown on virtual private networks (VPNs) and the raft of new regulations accompanying Chinas Cyberspace Law, which Bandurski said redefines propaganda around the individual Internet user. More recently, Xi has taken even more aggressive steps, such as pushing for the government to buy shares in local tech companies, he added. New normal Unlike his predecessors, Xi understands the power of the Internet and has ensured that all regulations to control Chinas Internet are fully enforced, said a founder of GreatFire, an organization dedicated to fighting the so-called Great Firewall of China, who goes by the pseudonym Charlie Smith. Smith says that the Chinese governments initiatives to make it harder to evade censorship will be the new normal with a worrying effect. Sadly, we are seeing that foreign companies are willing to work closely with the Chinese authorities to limit Internet freedom in China, the activist said in an email to VOA, referring to Apples decision to remove VPN apps from its app store. The situation will quickly worsen if other companies follow suit, he warned. Political censorship He added that, in the run-up to the 19th party congress, its not surprising for authorities to monitor sensitive keywords on Chinese social media. Even the keyword 19th Party Congress was tightly controlled because the authorities want the good messages to get out on social media and the bad messages to be deleted, he noted. The movie Youth by Feng Xiaogang, which tells a love story during the Sino-Vietnam war in the 80s, was also said to be pulled off the National Day schedule due to its political sensitivity. According to local media reports, online discussion about the movie was also banned. Making things worse, Chinese authorities have further detained 14 activists on charges of picking quarrels and provoking trouble, ahead of the meetings, according to China Human Rights Defenders. No freedom of political expression Those include dissenters and netizens who have discussed corruption allegations made by fugitive Chinese tycoon Guo Wengui as well as a professor who had called for democratic elections at the upcoming party congress, the rights group said. This kind of top-down directives about making sure that theres nothing that can embarrass the leader in this period, and the way this is being enacted has been fairly aggressive, said the groups researcher Frances Eve. Eve however noted it remains to be seen if any public backlash toward the governments tightening controls would emerge. [The] slow grind of ever-increasing controls and repression makes it harder for people to sort of realize it is like kind of an analogy of a frog being boiled alive in a pot, she said. Over the past few weeks, a state media blitz has highlighted the party's achievements over the past five years, but few people that VOA spoke with were even paying attention to or had much to say about the political gathering. We dont know much about politics. Im not interested in those things, unless it relates to my company or work. The only thing that bothers me now is that express delivery services have been suspended. So, I have to go shopping myself, said a lady surnamed Li. [People] care less about whether he [Xi] has consolidated his own power, but more about whether he has strived to improve peoples livelihood, which is the top priority. I wont say much about him as long as China is on the right track, a party member surnamed Wu added. As fighting between the Islamic State militant group and Taliban insurgents continues in eastern Afghanistan, civilians are bearing the brunt of the rivalry between the two warring parties. At least four civilians who were caught in crossfire have died in fresh fighting between the Taliban and IS fighters in the Khogyani district of eastern Nangarhar province, local officials told VOA. "IS militants killed four civilians and wounded two others," Nangarhar government spokesperson Attaullah Khogyani told VOA. The fighting in Khogyani district, which continues for a second day, also left several dead from both warring sides. "Six IS fighters and three Taliban militants have been killed, and another three Taliban wounded in the fighting," spokesperson Khogyani said. Local residents have joined forces with the Taliban to battle the IS fighters in the district, provincial officials told VOA. This is not the first time that locals have supported Taliban militants against IS. Frequent IS threats have forced some villagers to join forces with local Taliban to counter IS attacks on their villages. In a similar move last spring, local residents supported Taliban militants to repel an IS attack in the Tora Bora area, where Osama bin Laden once took refuge before he managed to cross into neighboring Pakistan, according to local tribesmen. The majority of Afghans views IS as an outside force, which has repeatedly targeted local villagers, destroyed homes and markets, and barred children from attending school in areas under its control. IS atrocities have forced thousands of families in several districts to flee their homes. IS and the Taliban have engaged in frequent clashes in Nangarhar and some areas in northern Jouzjan province, where local IS affiliates are attempting to establish a footprint. Fierce clashes between the two groups in the Chaparhar district of Nangarhar earlier this year left 21 Taliban fighters and seven IS militants dead, according to provincial officials. In Jouzjan, where some claim to have joined the IS cause, local militants frequently fight for control of districts and villages in the province. Recent clashes in the Qoshtepa district have resulted in the death of at least a dozen militants from both sides, according to Mohammad Reza Ghafoori, a spokesperson for the Jouzjan governor. Based in southern parts of Nangarhar, IS's self-styled Khorasan Province branch (ISIS-K) emerged in early 2015 in the mountainous areas of Afghanistan and Pakistan. The terror group has been active in several Nangarhar districts and has frequently targeted villages and government check posts. It has also claimed responsibility for several deadly attacks in major cities in the country. In South Korea and Japan there is increasing support for the deployment of nuclear weapons to defend against the growing North Korean threat, and due to public concern that the U.S. may no longer be counted on to aid allies with extended nuclear deterrence. The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency estimates North Korea may have as many as 60 nuclear weapons, and that it might have successfully miniaturized nuclear warheads to fit on its arsenal of 1,000 missiles. Assurance gap But what is changing the security calculus for both the U.S. and Asia is North Koreas rapid progress toward developing a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that could target the U.S. mainland. This development is raising concerns that Washington may not risk nuclear war with North Korea to fulfill longstanding mutual security obligations to defend its allies. People have some doubt that Washington will really protect Seoul or Tokyo at the expense of Washington or Seattle or New York, said Park In-kook with the Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies and a former South Korean deputy foreign minister. Park moderated an expert panel on the North Korean nuclear threat at the World Knowledge Forum in Seoul on Tuesday. During the U.S. presidential campaign, then candidate Donald Trump also sowed doubts about Americas commitment to allies in the region, when he said he would consider withdrawing troops from the region and allowing Asian Pacific allies to acquire their own nuclear weapons if they did not significantly increase defense payments to the United States. Since taking office, however, the Trump administration has offered multiple reassurances of the U.S. commitment to its allies. In a September public opinion survey, over 60 percent of South Koreans were in favor of their country acquiring its own nuclear deterrent, whether that be through the deployment of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons or by developing their own. In Japan, the only country to suffer a nuclear attack, only 9 percent supported acquiring nuclear weapons according to a poll in July. But North Koreas recent tests of two intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs), which flew directly over northern Japanese territory, have increased public support for conservative Prime Minister Shinzo Abes efforts to bolster the nations defenses. And in September, former Japanese defense minister Shigeru Ishiba publicly questioned whether the U.S. can still be trusted to protect Japan. Japan has a civilian nuclear power industry and is believed to have sufficient fissile materials and technology needed to quickly develop nuclear weapons, if the country decided to do so. Strategic objections But there are multiple arguments against the deployment of nuclear weapons by Seoul and Tokyo, as experts believe that such a move would likely legitimize North Koreas nuclear program, and greatly weaken the international communitys commitment to maintain pressure on North Korea to denuclearize through economic sanctions. China would shift from cooperating to restrain North Korea to focusing on the emerging nuclear security threat, especially from Japan with its history of military aggression in Asia. Japan in trying to take or, in other words, [exploit] some sort of a DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) factor to re-militarize, well that would scare the Chinese bad, said Shu Feng, the director of the Institute of International Studies in Nanjing University in China. Japan and South Korea would also be in violation of the Non Proliferation Treaty (NPT) they signed as non-nuclear weapons states and could be subjected to international sanctions as well. The United Nations might also impose economic and diplomatic sanctions on South Korea for developing nuclear weapons. Military advantage From a military standpoint, deploying U.S. tactical nuclear weapons in South Korea in particular does not make sense. The tactical weapons the U.S. withdrew from the Korean Peninsula in the 1990s are considered obsolete. Analysts say the U.S. now keeps its nuclear weapons in undisclosed submarines and aircraft. Deploying them in stationary locations in South Korea would lose the element of surprise and make them more vulnerable to a North Korean strike. You have increased the likelihood that North Korea will engage in a preemptive attack on that very high value target, and in a crisis you may even feel constrained from removing the nuclear weapons from the bunker, lest it cause North Korea to think you are about to attack them, said Bruce Klingner, a former CIA analyst who is now senior research fellow at the conservative Heritage Foundation. The U.S. and its allies in Tokyo and Seoul have so far moved to counter North Koreas nuclear capabilities by building up missile defenses and conventional weapons. Japan has requested to purchase a $113 million an AIM 120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) system from the U.S. The U.S. military has also deployed the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile shield in South Korea. Youmi Kim in Seoul contributed to this report. The European Unions foreign policy chief describes U.S. President Donald Trumps decision not to re-certify Iran's compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal as an "internal U.S. process." European countries, along with the other signatories, Russia and China, said Tehran is keeping its end of the deal. But President Trump claims Iran has repeatedly violated the letter and spirit of the agreement, which suspends sanctions in return for limits on the countrys atomic program. WATCH: Europe Mulls Policy Response as Trump Repeats Threat to End Iran Deal The EU commissioner for foreign affairs, Federica Mogherini, said Monday that the Iran deal was "the culmination of 12 years of diplomacy facilitated by the European Union." Mogherini is due to travel to Washington in early November to lobby in favor of the Iran deal. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is a key element of the nuclear non-proliferation global architecture and crucial for the security of the region," Mogherini told reporters Monday. "Its successful implementation continues to ensure that Iran's nuclear program remains exclusively peaceful. Trump reiterated his threat Monday to fully withdraw from the deal, claiming that Iran had committed several violations and continues to pose a grave security threat. They negotiated a phenomenal deal for themselves but a horrible deal for the United States. And we're going to see what happens, he said. On Friday, Trump stopped recertifying the deal every 90 days as required by the U.S. Congress. It means Congress will now decide the next step. Should the U.S. seek to impose additional sanctions on Iran, Europe does have options to respond, says analyst Paulina Izewicz of the International Institute for Strategic Studies. One of those tools is blocking legislation, that effectively bans European persons and entities from abiding by U.S. secondary sanctions, which would be one of the elements of the package that would be re-imposed in terms of sanctions on Iran. But Izewicz acknowledges those tools are as yet untested. The legislation has been in place since 1996 but has not actually been used. So its quite difficult. And ultimately I think it will come down to whether Iran considers the economic benefits to be sufficient for it to keep its end of the bargain. Germanys foreign minister has warned that Washington risks driving Europe "into a common position with Russia and China against the USA." Moscow and Beijing have made it clear they have no desire to return to the negotiating table over Iran. From Beijings perspective, the American approach under Trump seems a bit like a bit of a bully towards Iran, which is a strategic partner of China, particularly in terms of energy supply, Professor Steve Tsang of the London School Of Oriental and African Studies told VOA in an interview. Beijing fears the fallout of a U.S. withdrawal on security in its own backyard with North Korea on the brink of developing nuclear bombs. If the Iranians have made a deal, and largely kept to it, and by the account of all other U.N. Security Council Members have kept to it, and yet the Americans would then unilaterally go back on it and ask for more; how can the Chinese reassure the North Koreans that doing a deal with the Americans would be worth the paper it would be printed on? adds Tsang. U.S. lawmakers have 60 days to decide whether to re-impose the sanctions suspended under the deal or keep the agreement in place. Congress could also seek to put additional conditions on Tehran, such as demanding that it halt ballistic missile testing a move Iran has already ruled out. The European Unions foreign policy chief Monday described U.S. President Donald Trumps decision not to re-certify Iran's compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal as an "internal U.S. process". European countries, along with Russia and China - the other signatories - say Tehran is keeping its end of the bargain. Henry Ridgwell looks at how other parties to the deal will likely respond should the U.S. withdraw from the agreement. U.S. officials are increasingly worried tensions between Iraq's government and Iraqi Kurdish officials are playing right into the hands of the two forces Washington most wants to contain in the region: the Islamic State terror group and Iran. So far, Kurdish Peshmerga forces seem to have been willing to cede ground, leaving bases and checkpoints as Iraqi forces move swiftly to reclaim parts of the Kurdish autonomous region in northern Iraq. Officials in Washington repeatedly have sounded the alarm, however, over concerns about what further escalation might bring. "The biggest winners from further tensions would be ISIS and the IRGC an outcome we should all want to avoid," a National Security Council spokesperson said, using acronyms for Islamic State and Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, respectively. "The U.S., the government of Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government, and our entire coalition must be united in prioritizing the final defeat of ISIS," the official added. U.S. intelligence and military officials caution that despite the collapse of its self-declared caliphate, Islamic State remains resilient, with sleeper cells and operatives entrenched in Kirkuk and across the Iraqi countryside. And they warn the group long has been successful at using differences and grievances within the Iraqi population to its advantage. Iranian involvement The bigger and more immediate concern, though, may be Iran. Kurdish officials last week accused Tehran of sending Qassem Soleimani, head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Crops' Quds Force, and other officials to Iraqi Kurdistan to pressure Kurdish forces to withdraw from Kirkuk. And photos and videos from in and around Kirkuk show members of Iranian-backed Shia militias, who make up part of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMUs), celebrating on the outskirts of the city. Perhaps the most prominent of these was the Badr Organization, whose leader, Hadi al-Amiri, was photographed in Dibis, also on the edge of Kirkuk. "Badr made a very public show of rolling its guys into Kirkuk this time," according to Phillip Smyth, a University of Maryland researcher who follows the online activity of Iranian-backed Shi'ite militias in Iraq and Syria. Smyth described the Badr Organization, with its close ties to Tehran, as "a dominant force" within the PMU. "Badr is sitting incredibly high right now and feels they've seized the day," he said. "I see them only becoming more entrenched." Other experts and officials say Iran's influence may extend even further, with some warning that Tehran now also wields significant influence over Iraq's Interior Ministry. US: No evidence of Iran role Yet a U.S. military spokesman said Tuesday that the U.S.-led coalition had not seen any evidence of Iran's influence or involvement. "Those are Iraqi Security Force elements, like the counterterrorism service, the federal police," Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman Col. Ryan Dillon told Pentagon reporters. "We don't have any reporting or any indications that there are units in and around Kirkuk of the elements [from the PMU or Iran]." The comments, combined with the assertion made Monday by U.S. President Donald Trump that the U.S. is "not taking sides" in the dispute between the Iraqi government and Kurdish officials, is causing additional concerns. Specifically, some current and former U.S. officials worry U.S. inaction is serving only to further embolden Iran. "How do you designate the IRGC and then facilitate the IRGC's actions in Iraq?" asked Michael Pregent, who lobbied for two years to designate Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization as executive director for Veterans Against the Deal, which opposed the Iran nuclear deal. In announcing his administration's new Iran policy last week, Trump said the regime "continues to fuel conflict, terror, and turmoil throughout the Middle East and beyond." He also slapped new sanctions on the Revolutionary Guards, calling it "the Iranian Supreme Leader's corrupt personal terror force and militia." But in refusing to stand up for the Kurds in Iraq, Pregent said it appears the U.S. is undermining its own foreign policy priorities. "[Trump's] actions are inconsistent with the speech," said Pregent. "The ramifications of what Iran is doing in Iraq destabilizes the Middle East." As North Korea appears to accelerate the development of its nuclear and missile programs, tensions are escalating between the United States and the communist state. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized the policies of past administrations, saying North Korea is a problem that has to be solved after a quarter century of unsuccessful U.S. policy toward North Korea, and that the U.S. has no choice but to totally destroy North Korea if it is forced to defend itself or its allies. Critics suggest this is an unrealistic option given the consequences of an all-out war on the Korean peninsula. Or is it? Jack Keane, a retired four-star general and former Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army who has close ties to the Trump administration, told VOAs Korean Service that it would not be unrealistic for the U.S to pre-emptively strike North Korea if Pyongyang aims nuclearized intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) at America, which includes Guam. To Trump, that would be an act of war, according to Keane, who discussed possible military strategies for countering the North Korean threat. His remarks have been edited for clarity and length. In the past, you have said a large-scale military strike, or a pre-emptive strike, on North Korea might be the only option left. Why? First of all, it really would be the last option, assuming that all of the major economic sanctions that we are imposing on North Korea have not changed the regime. I do believe that the Trump administration would not permit North Korea to have nuclearized ICBM capabilities. And if they have such capability, we will not be able to get them to stand down, so a pre-emptive strike would be likely. But I think before we do that there are other military options that we will likely exercise. One would be a naval blockade to further increase economic pressures. Secondly, we will begin to shoot down some of [North Koreas] ICBMs. In other words, we will graduate to more serious military options. If all else fails, then U.S. military options would go against [North Koreas] missile launch facilities, its nuclear weapons, its rockets and missiles, and also probably leadership targets in Pyongyang. Of course, this would mean an all-out war, and there is no way to conduct a military strike like this, and have this so limited, that this would not lead to war. This is why this option is probably something that the Trump administration knows is horrific, and does not want to do. But at the same time, the Trump administration would not permit North Korea to point nuclearized ICBMs at the American people. What do you mean by the naval blockade? A naval blockade would just shut off all commerce going into North Korea to further create an economic stranglehold on to the country. I think one of the options that plays out here, certainly [one that] is possible is, as economic sanctions begin to take hold on the country, it begins to economically collapse. Its also an option---at that point---that the leaders around Kim Jong Un have to change out their leader, and put somebody else in who is not jeopardizing the very survival of their country. Obviously we have no control over that option and it is something that they would have to do themselves. Also, China at some point, not wanting to destabilize North Korea and the peninsula, may indeed change out the leadership themselves. In other words, replacing Kim Jong Un with another communist leader but one that is more responsible and is not jeopardizing and destabilizing the peninsula and North Korea, [potentially] creating thousands of refugees that would flood into China. The United States has no control over those options to be sure, but they are possibilities. How do you view the argument that war on the Korean peninsula is unrealistic, endangering South Koreans and Americans residing in Korea? Well, it is a realistic option because what President Trump is saying to North Korea and China is that he is not going to accept nuclearized ICBMs pointing at the American people. He looks at that as of act of war by North Korea. So that is what introduces that option. We can say that war on the peninsula is not realistic, but if Kim Jong Un is going to bring it to that point, that is what is going to exactly happen. More and more South Koreans are calling on Seoul to develop its own nuclear weapons or to ask the United States to redeploy tactical nuclear weapons to the country. What do you think about this ongoing debate? Well, first of all, we would not like to see more nuclear proliferation and that is why we want to denuclearize the North. But we also understand that our allies have options. South Korea and Japan both have options to move toward nuclear weapons to further protect their own people. And that is the decision that they would have to make. We would, this administration would likely discourage it, at least in the near term as we are trying to work diplomatic and economic sanctions options as a main effort. Some legal experts say Trump cant initiate war or order a preemptive strike without consent from Congress? We are not depending on those critics to tell us what the military capability of North Korea is. We are depending on our intelligence agencies who have significant capability to be able to ascertain what is taking place in North Korea. All those [critics] have opinions, but it is not based on any fact. Our intelligence agencies are monitoring what is going on in North Korea and what they conclude is based on facts, not on opinion. The president of the United States [and] the president of South Korea will make those decisions based on facts, not opinion. The U.S.-led coalition battling Islamic State in Syria and Iraq says the city of Raqqa is 95 percent under control, a day after the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces declared victory there after months of fighting. Coalition spokesman Colonel Ryan Dillon said clearance operations were continuing Wednesday in the last blocks of the city. A spokesman for the SDF, which is made up of Kurdish and Arab militias, said Tuesday the fighting in Raqqa was over and that SDF forces were looking through the city for Islamic State sleeper cells and mines. A formal declaration of victory is expected when that process is complete. Raqqa was the de facto capital for Islamic State as it set up a self-declared caliphate spanning across large areas it captured in Syria and Iraq in 2014. The offensive to push the militants out of the city began in June backed by coalition airstrikes. Islamic State still controls areas around the eastern province of Deir el-Zour and further south in the Euphrates river valley. Humanitarian crisis Although the SDF has seized control of Raqqa from Islamic State, the humanitarian crisis in the area continues to worsen, according to the child advocacy group Save the Children. "The humanitarian crisis is greater than ever," group director Sonia Khush said in a statement. The group said some 270,000 people who have fled Raqqa are still in dire need of aid at camps that are "bursting at the seams." The charity said most displaced people are likely to remain for months or even years in the camps, where conditions are "miserable and families do not have enough food, water or medicine." In an interview with VOA's Kurdish Service, SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali called on global relief groups to provide assistance to the displaced people of Raqqa. The situation of the displaced people from the city of Raqqa is very difficult and tragic and everyone should be aware of this situation, and we do not have the necessary capabilities because we are fighting and at the same time we live in a war zone area. The International organizations must provide assistance and consideration to the situation of the refugees in the city of Raqqa and the people, Bali said. The organization added that thousands of civilians were still being displaced in Deir el-Zour, where fighting is ongoing. Kenya's opposition has suspended protests following deadly unrest Monday as the country struggles to finalize a seemingly never-ending presidential election. As tensions rise, some see traces of the decades-long rivalry between two of Kenya's top political families coming to the fore. The clash between President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition leader Raila Odinga echoes that of their fathers, who were the country's first president and vice president following independence in 1963. "During those early '60s, there was a big rivalry between the west and the east," explained Wilber Otichilo, the governor of Kenya's Vihiga County. "And that's now how the two became rivals. And after one year of [Odinga] being vice president, Jomo Kenyatta fired Jaramogi Odinga from his government. And that's how he formed the opposition." The two men disagreed on general ideology, and on resource and land allocation issues much like their sons do now. However, University of Nairobi lecturer Herman Manyora cautions against oversimplification. "There's something in you, perhaps as a human being, that you say, 'Well, I will fight the wars of my father. I will complete what my father started.' You could look at it that way," he said. "But I see beyond that myself, because there is a clear dichotomy in the arrangement of our politics and our economics and everything else in this country." Since independence, no one from outside Kenya's Rift Valley or Central province has ruled the country, feeding a sense of marginalization in the west, Odinga's home region. That has been exacerbated by Odinga's contested defeats in the past three elections. Opposition supporter Zeblon Oloo, who works as a mechanic in Kakamega County, feels that separation. "Since independence, we were under Mr. Jomo Kenyatta. He rules for 15 years. Then Moi took [over], he rules for 24 years. After that, Mr. Kibaki took [over]. He rules 10 years. After that, Mr. Uhuru [Kenyatta] has taken. Now it's five years. Now from there, there is not anything we have developed between western Kenya. We are down," he said. There is more to Kenyan politics than familial rivalry. Odinga has dominated the opposition for decades, while Uhuru Kenyatta, a man 17 years his junior, only became interested in politics in the early 2000s. Previously, Odinga even supported candidates from Kenyatta's Kikuyu ethnic group, including his former rival Mwai Kibaki. Now some politicians in the west, such as former Vihiga County governor Moses Akaranga, are switching sides, backing Kenyatta for the October 26 repeat election. "Many Kenyans feel that if now we vote for Uhuru Kenyatta, he will finish his term completely and go home," Akaranga said. "So, the Kenyatta dynasty will have gone. Raila [Odinga] will not make it again because of his age. So, the Jaramogi Odinga's dynasty also will have gone. So, the Kenyatta and the Jaramogi will leave Kenyans to choose, or elect a leader from another dynasty." For now, however, Kenyans wait for the next developments in an election season that has been anything but ordinary. After six years in medical school, Maryan Abdullahi Gedi was on the verge of fulfilling a lifelong dream. One of the top students in Benadir University's medical and surgery department, Gedi was about to graduate and become a doctor. In that role, she would meet a vital need in Somalia, where the number of physicians per capita is among the lowest in the world. "She was a student working tirelessly, trying to reach her goals and was energetic," her mother, Hinda Yusuf, told VOA's Somali service. "She was respected. Very respected. In her university, she was very patient and kind and good at her school, and she was good with her classmates." What Gedi's mother remembers most about her daughter is just how much she was loved by those who knew her. "By the neighbors, by other students and everybody that knew her. She was known to all as 'the loved one.'" A life cut short Gedi's life was cut short October 14 in a bomb blast in Mogadishu that killed more than 300 people and injured hundreds more. The explosion, which the Somali government blames on militant group al-Shabab, was the deadliest terror attack in Somalia's history. Gedi, who was in her early 20s, worked a shift that Saturday at Benadir Hospital, where she served as a volunteer. Afterward, she went to the market to pick up a graduation dress she had bought, according to her classmate Hodan Abdullahi Ali. Gedi was waiting for a bus when a truck packed with explosives detonated at the K5 intersection, killing pedestrians, destroying cars and demolishing buildings. The blast flattened the Safari Hotel, and other nearby landmarks were badly damaged. Gedi's mother learned about her daughter's death when a stranger answered her phone. He relayed unthinkable information: "The dead body of your daughter is in front of the Gorgor Hotel." Gedi's mother and siblings rushed to the scene, but other relatives had already taken her to a nearby hospital. Family mourns Benadir University has operated in the battle-scarred Somali capital since 2002, educating hundreds of doctors, teachers and scientists. The school has seen more than its share of tragedy. In 2009, al-Shabab bombed its graduation ceremony in the Shamo Hotel, killing 25 people, most of whom were students. Gedi's father was traveling from London to attend her graduation. "He left from abroad to participate in her graduation ceremony, but rather he attended the funeral," Ali said. "During his transit, he was talking to her, and was very happy to attend the ceremony. But that happiness turned to sorrowfulness." Ali said several of her classmates and other Benadir University graduates were among the victims of the blast. One classmate, who was with Gedi, called Ali while she was wounded and bleeding. The entire school is in shock and mourning the passing of Gedi, said Ali. "Maryan was very patient, respected and a kind student. She used to help the other students, especially during the exams," Ali said. "We are feeling a huge amount of devastation and are disheartened. We will never forget her." Call for restraint Despite the tragedy, Gedi's mother called for restraint and refused to give in to a desire for vengeance for those who committed the terror attack. "Whoever lost their loved one like us, I wish patience for them, and may Allah stop such tragedies from happening again," her mother said. "It's painful," she added, "but we are a Muslim society, and when we face miserable conditions like this, we have to be patient and make sure we keep things under control. That's the only thing we can do. We can't prevent such horrific actions." The Somali government said search and rescue operations have ended, three days after a massive explosion killed hundreds of people at a busy intersection in Mogadishu. Official casualty figures stand at 281 dead and more than 300 wounded, but the death toll could still rise, Information Minister Abdurrahman Omar Osman said Tuesday. "The number can increase because there may be other victims either taken by their relatives who later died or others who died from their wounds," he told VOA's Somali service. Local medical services have reported more than 300 dead from Saturday's blast.There was no immediate explanation for the discrepancy. Government officials blame militant group al-Shabab for the explosion, although there has been no claim of responsibility. The al-Qaida-linked group has bombed numerous hotels and restaurants in the Somali capital since launching its insurgency in 2006. Mogadishu's mayor, Tabit Abdi Mohamed, who spoke at the blast site Tuesday, praised hundreds of volunteers who have helped rescue survivors from the debris of demolished cars and buildings, and also cleaned up the rubble. The mayor called for the city's residents and for all Somalis to turn this disaster into an opportunity to face "the enemy" al-Shabab and assist security agencies trying to protect residents of the capital and other cities. "What has happened to us is pain beyond human capacity, but we can translate this disaster into a bold move to face our enemy and support the security," Mohamed said. He also called for a massive rally in Mogadishu on Wednesday to pray for and mourn victims of the Mogadishu blast. Global response International aid continued pouring into Mogadishu Tuesday as hospitals tried to care for the hundreds of wounded. A U.S. military cargo plane landed in Somalia's capital with medical and humanitarian aid supplies. Doctors sent by Kenya and Qatar also arrived. Somalia's neighbor, Djibouti, sent more than 30 doctors on Monday. Kenya's foreign minister, Amina Mohamed, said the country has sent 11 tons of medicine to help Somali hospitals running low on supplies. Qatar has airlifted 12 wounded people to Sudan for specialized treatment, and Mohamed said Kenya will fly 31 wounded to Nairobi. The Somali government said Turkey was the first country to respond immediately after the bomb blast on Saturday. It sent a team of medical professionals and an emergency response plane carrying medical aid that later airlifted some 35 critically injured victims, including a VOA Somali reporter, to Ankara for treatment. The flow of Rohingya refugees fleeing Myanmar slowed to a trickle Tuesday as Bangladesh began screening the new arrivals, creating a bottleneck that left an estimated 15,000 stranded in a swollen creek with scant supplies, U.N. officials said. Violence broke out against Rohingyas in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state following attacks on 30 police posts by Arakan Rohingya Solidarity Army militants on Aug. 25. An estimated 582,000 refugees nearly 60 percent of them children have since arrived in Bangladesh, according to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, adding that a fresh exodus began Sunday night. A UNHCR statement issued from Geneva said many refugees "had initially chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed." They finally fled when their villages were set on fire. Human Rights Watch said Tuesday that newly released satellite images indicate at least 288 villages were partially or totally destroyed by fire in Rakhine state since Aug. 25. The Myanmar military has been accused of carrying out ethnic cleansing by using rape, killings, looting and the laying of landmines to prevent people from returning to their homes. Drone shows refugees Drone footage from UNHCR shows thousands of Rohingya lined up for kilometers in what appears to be a rain-swollen creek in southern Bangladesh. The agency expressed concern about the condition of those stranded near the border with little to no food, water and shelter. Some were already weakened after traveling by foot for up to a week. "We are advocating with the Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly difficult conditions back home. Every minute counts given the fragile condition they are arriving in," UNHCR spokesman Andrej Mahecic told reporters in Geneva. "As of this morning, they are still squatting in the paddy fields of Anjuman Para village in Bangladesh," Mahecic said. "They are waiting for permission to move away from the border, where the sound of gunfire continues to be heard every night from the Myanmar side." Mahecic said the delay was due to screening by Bangladesh border guards. Lt. Col. Soe Myint Oo of Myanmar's Border Guard Police in Maungtaw in northern Rakhine state, told VOA Burmese there has been a steady exodus of Muslim residents from the region even though authorities tried to persuade them not to leave, pledging to provide basic staples and security. Rohingya resident Hla Tun told VOA Burmese that Muslim residents remain unconvinced of authorities promises for better protection. U.N. political chief visits Rakhine Separately, U.N. political chief Jeffrey Feltman wrapped up a five-day visit to Myanmar, where he met with de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi and Army Chief General Min Aung Hlaing, among others. He reiterated the secretary-general's call that aid workers be given full and unimpeded access to northern Rakhine State and that refugees be allowed voluntary, safe and dignified return to their place of origin. A U.N. spokesperson said Feltman also visited northern Rakhine, where he "saw dozens of burned and destroyed villages by air, and visited several communities affected by the recent violence." The spokesperson said that in his discussions with military leaders, Feltman stressed that successful counter-terrorism efforts do not rely exclusively on security measures and underscored the importance of accountability and non-discriminatory rule of law to help build trust among the communities in Rakhine. Second U.N. official visits camps The Rohingya are one of many ethnic minorities in the Buddhist-majority nation. They are considered to be economic migrants from Bangladesh and have been denied citizenship, even though most can show that their families have been in Myanmar for generations. In neighboring Bangladesh, the head of the U.N.'s migration agency (IOM), William Swing, visited camps and met with officials. The government, IOM and other agencies are working to set up a new 3,000-acre camp to accommodate the rapidly arriving refugees. Next week, the United Nations will host a pledging conference in Geneva, seeking $434 million to help more than a million Rohingya. VOA's Bangla and Burmese Services contributed to this report. Two Myanmar journalists who were detained in Bangladesh for more than a month were allowed to leave the country, according to their lawyer. Minzayar Oo, a member of British photo agency Panos Pictures, and his colleague, photographer Hkun Lat, left on a Biman Airlines flight from Dhaka Tuesday afternoon, Bangladeshi attorney Jyotirmoy Barua told VOA. Today we booked their ticket with Bangladesh Biman and they flew at 20 [minutes] past 12, and there was a clearance from the Bangladesh government for them to fly back to their own country instead of holding them here, he said. Officially the government has decided to drop the case, so far we came to know from our sources," he added. " I think that was the reason to allow them to leave the country. So theyre gone now. Barua said afterwards he would try to ship them their camera equipment that was still in Dhaka either through friends or courier service. Cox's Bazar trip The pair had traveled to Coxs Bazar in southern Bangladesh to report on the ongoing Rohingya refugee crisis, which has seen more than 500,000 of the stateless Muslim minority flee a crackdown on insurgents in Myanmars Rakhine State. Believed to be the only journalists of Myanmar nationality to make the trip, they were on assignment from German GEO magazine when they were picked up in Coxs Bazar in the first week of September. Initial reports suggested authorities were pursuing espionage charges, which alarmed press advocates and friends of the well-known photographers. But the charges wound up as more or less immigration violations. Like many foreign correspondents who went to cover the Rohingya crisis, they had traveled to Coxs Bazar on tourist visas. Noted photographers Minzayar Oo and Hkun Lat are both noted photographers in Myanmar. Minzayar has published in several international publications. One of his photos of de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi ran in the prominent American magazine The New Yorker while he was detained in Dhaka. They two were not immediately available for comment, but a photo of them leaving the Dhaka airport was posted on social media, along with GEO editor Christoph Kucklick, who tweeted Theyre free! @minzayar88 &@hkun_lat just left #bangladesh on a flight to BKK. I saw them off at #Dhaka airport - extremely relieved. Their lawyer said they were in good spirits. He did not elaborate on why the case was dropped, but media advocates and others had rallied to the defense of the pair. Despite the charges, the two had been treated well in Bangladesh, according to those familiar with the case. The refugee crisis has strained ties between Myanmar and Bangladesh. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has insisted that the Rohingya who have been fleeing to Bangladesh for decades be allowed to return home. Myanmar has said it would abide by an older repatriation agreement, and Aung San Suu Kyi has unveiled a new committee to deal with the issue. But many remain skeptical about the likelihood that a large-scale return is in the offing, at least in the short term. Call someone Arab inside the city and then you can go in, the Iraqi Special Forces soldier told my Kurdish colleague as we pulled into the main entrance of Kirkuk city. Really? But we are journalists! my colleague replied, hoping to skirt the rule by sounding shocked. Just joking, the soldier said, laughing. You can go in. At that, we really were shocked. On Monday evening we were reporting on what looked like the beginning of a civil war between Arabs and Kurds, with mortars reaching kilometers beyond the city and armed civilians flocking to the fight. Kurdish Peshmerga forces were struggling to fend off Iraqi forces sent by the central government in Baghdad to take Kirkuk, an oil-rich city the Peshmerga have held for the past three years. Thousands of people fled their homes Monday, amid reports of heavy casualties, at least from the Kurdish side of the conflict. But the following morning, the city was open and Arab soldiers were joking with Kurdish journalists. The city was also quiet, with no signs of conflict except the flames coming from a Kurdish ruling party building as it burned to the ground. The Kurdish flag had been removed from the main government headquarters, but no one had bothered to remove every Kurdish flag in town. The most important thing for us is that Kurdish families come back, said Ali Mehdi, a Kirkuk city council member and a member of the Iraq Turkmen Front, a political party representing Turkmen, one of several minority groups in the city. Kurdish Families in Kirkuk Among civilians in the city, the response to the rapid takeover varied by neighborhood, and ethnicity, with Arabs and Turkmen generally pleased with the shift in local power and Kurdish families mixed in their levels of distress. In one Kurdish neighborhood, families were coming back after most people fled the day before. Minutes after arriving back into her house, Nasreen, 35, burst into tears. The night before she had slept in a field with her thee children, her husband and a crowd of other scared families. The return trip was uneventful, but the symbolic loss of Kirkuk broke her heart, she said. I wish I had died before seeing this, she added. Across the street, outside a home topped with a large white pigeon house, another man, carrying a pistol, showed us bullet wounds on his chest from fighting Islamic State militants. He was also Kurdish, but disagreed with Nasreen. Of course I dream of an independent Kurdistan, he explained. But it wasn't the right time. The Iraqi-Kurdish standoff around Kirkuk began last week, when Baghdad announced that it would take back Kirkuk, by force if it had to, in response to a controversial independence referendum that won overwhelming support among Iraqi Kurds, but condemnation from Baghdad and the international community. The man showed us his tattoo of a gun and the word Kurdistan and gave us a little insight as to why outside observers reported battles amid other reports that the Peshmerga forces had quickly retreated. The forces were divided by political party, he said. Some were ordered to stay and fight, others were told to stand down. Down the street, Wushiar Khalid, a 22-year-old day worker, was riding an old bike with pink trimmings saying Love and Peace. He offered further explanation. The regular Peshmerga soldiers were not here, he said. But civilian volunteers took up arms against the gangs. By gangs he meant the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) that were recently formalized under Baghdads control, also known simply as Shia militias. While Khalid was deeply disappointed that Kurdistan lost control of Kirkuk, he said it was too soon to know if their fear that the PMUs would harm civilians was even realistic. It's only been one day, he said. Somber journey On the way out of town, we see some families celebrating the change of guard, waving Iraqi flags. But most people went about their business without fanfair. Onlookers filmed the burning party building with their mobile phones as the fire department arrived to put out the blaze. At a checkpoint just outside the city, Iraqi Special Forces seemed jubilatory, flashing the victory sign and posing for pictures. We have been fighting IS for three years, one soldier told us. So we took this city easily. But beyond the massive berms Peshmerga soldiers have built to establish new defense lines between Kirkuk and Irbil, their regional capital, humvees lined the streets and units of Peshmerga soldiers guarded the highway. How was Kirkuk? asked one soldier as he examined our IDs at a checkpoint. He looked like he had just swallowed rotten food. There were PMUs everywhere and a party building was burning, but otherwise it was really normal, my colleague told him. Really? he said. This is so sad. A look at the best news photos from around the world. The U.S. Defense Department is changing a program that enables foreign-born military recruits to earn a fast-track path to American citizenship. The new guidelines rolled out Friday will affect legal permanent residents (LPR), or green card holders, and recruits enrolled in the National Interest (MAVNI) program launched in 2009 to bring in immigrants with medical or language skills. "Effective immediately, all LPRs must complete a background investigation and receive a favorable military security suitability determination (MSSD) prior to entry in the active, reserve, or guard service," according to a Defense Department statement. To be eligible for expedited naturalization, LPRs or recruits now must complete the initial military training requirements of the service in which they are a member, have at least 180 consecutive days of active duty service, or at least one year of satisfactory service in the selected reserve, and pass an extensive background check. This is a change from the current practice, where a service member would qualify for "expedited naturalization" after one day of service. Though the program promotes a shortcut to U.S. citizenship, recruits are required to have at least two years of legal U.S. residency. Normally, a green card holder must be a legal permanent resident for at least five years in order to apply for naturalization or have been a legal U.S. resident and married to a U.S. citizen for at least three years. 'Due diligence' Before the announcement, green card holders were allowed to begin training once a background investigation had been initiated. Recruits, however, had to undergo "more-stringent background checks because most have been in the United States for less time." The Washington Post reported in June that Defense Department officials initially wanted to end the naturalization program along with the contracts of those waiting to serve in the military. The Pentagon had cited security concerns and put MAVNI on hold in 2016 after determining it did not have competent security against inside threats. The paper said the Pentagon did not identify those potential concerns. The Military Times reported that more than 10,000 recruits have entered the army forces through the program. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told reporters, these are steps "obviously to save the program, if it can be saved." He said an assessment had found problems with some of the people who had been recruited and that the program needs an "espionage potential." Pentagon spokesman Laura Ochoa said the agency initiated a security review over the summer and these changes are part of an ongoing evaluation. Enlistments are now expected to take a year as there is a backlog for federal security clearances at the Office of Personnel Management, the newspaper reported. Gunfire rang out sporadically and explosions thudded as Philippine soldiers fought Tuesday to gain control of the last pocket of Marawi controlled by Islamic militants as President Rodrigo Duterte declared the southern city liberated from terrorist influence. The military, boosted by the deaths of two key militant leaders in a gun battle the day before, hopes the current fighting is the final phase of defeating a dwindling band of fighters who are now trapped in an area the army says is about 2 hectares (5 acres). Duterte visited the battle-scarred city on Tuesday where to cheers from troops he announced its liberation in a short speech from a stage at a ruined school campus about a kilometer from the fighting. Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi city liberated from the terrorist influence, he said. Military chief Gen. Eduardo Ano told The Associated Press that Duterte's statement means the threat from the militants, who've occupied parts of the lake-side city for five months, is substantially over. They're leaderless and they have no more organization, he said. There are still skirmishes. According to military spokesman Restituto Padilla, there are 20-30 militants left in Marawi, including six to eight foreign fighters. They have about 20 hostages, including women and children, he said. Marawi, a mosque-studded center of Islamic faith in the predominantly Roman Catholic Philippines, has been devastated by five months of military attacks against the Islamic State group-allied militants who overran the city on May 23. More than 1,000 people have been killed, including about 800 militants. Philippine flags hung on Tuesday from pockmarked buildings and houses, their roofs either blasted away or riddled with gunshot holes. Soldiers stood guard in front of some buildings and at intersections where battle debris has been shoveled to the side. The Philippine government on Monday confirmed an Associated Press report that two key figures behind the siege, Isnilon Hapilon, who is listed among the FBI's most-wanted terror suspects, and Omarkhayam Maute, were killed in a gun battle. A top Malaysian militant, Mahmud bin Ahmad, who uses the nom de guerre Abu Handzalah and is a close associate of Hapilon, has not been found and was among the remaining militants being hunted by troops. At a public hall converted into an evacuation center just outside Marawi, there was joy among evacuees at news of the two men's deaths and hopes of a return to some form of normality. Evacuees chatted about the news and looked at Facebook posts showing pictures of the dead Hapilon and Maute. We're very happy because they have lost their leaders. I hope that all of them will be wiped out, said Seima Munting, a 40-year-old mother of four who is among 750 people living at the hall in Balo-i township. My brother told me that finally we can return home, but when? When can we finally return home? What will we return to? Do we still have a house? Do we have jobs? she said. Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has declared the southern city of Marawi "liberated from the terrorist influence" after a five-month battle to retake the southern city from Islamic militants. Duterte's declaration in front of a group of rain-soaked troops Tuesday came a day after two key militant leaders, Isnilon Hapilon and Omarkhayam Maute, were killed during a targeted military operation. Hapilon, who swore allegiance to Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was one of the most wanted terrorists listed by the United States, which offered a $5 million reward for his arrest. Despite the president's declaration of victory, military officials said a small pocket of 20 to 30 armed militants are still holding about 20 hostages in Marawi, a city of 200,000 located on the southern island of Mindanao. More than 1,000 people have been killed since May 23, when Philippine security forces launched a mission to capture Hapilon. The raid collapsed after a wave of militants stormed the city and went on a rampage, burning houses, a university and Catholic churches and taking scores of hostages. Much of Marawi has been leveled by airstrikes aimed at bringing an end to the siege. Military officials say they are also searching for Mahmud Ahmad, a close associate of Hapilon who experts say is likely to take over for Hapilon as Islamic State's leader in the region. The southern Philippines, particularly the resource-rich but poverty-wracked Mindanao region, has long been a hotbed of activity by the Abu Sayyaf and other fundamentalist groups. Rain and cooler temperatures are helping firefighters in Portugal and Spains Galicia region battle wildfires that have killed at least 40 people. Authorities in Portugal said Tuesday the fires there were under control, while in Spain the blazes were still threatening inhabited areas. Portugal also began three days of mourning Tuesday. Winds from Hurricane Ophelia fanned the wildfires that officials in both countries have said were started by arsonists. They are absolutely intentional fires, premeditated, caused by people who knew what they are doing, said Alberto Nunez Feijoo, the head of Galicias government. Juan Ignacio Zoido, Spains interior minister, said in a tweet that several people had already been identified in connection with the fires. He appealed for people with further information to share it with the national protection service. Wildfires are an annual problem in Portugal, where strong winds off the Atlantic blow into a hot and dry country. In June, a massive forest wildfire killed 64 people and injured 150 others. Scientists say climate change has extended the wildfire season from two to five months. The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) confirmed Tuesday that Riek Machar will be a no-show at an upcoming high-level meeting aimed at revitalizing the August 2015 peace agreement in South Sudan. Despite Machar's absence, he will be represented at the meeting, according to IGAD's special envoy for South Sudan, Ismail Wais, who said that "his idea, his thinking, his position and everything he is thinking about will be represented." Wais said IGAD ministers have met with all the key stakeholders including estranged groups headed by exiled General Thomas Cirillo, former Western Equatoria state governor Joseph Bangasi Bakosoro, General Peter Gadet and former deputy chief of army staff General Bapinyi Monytuil. Wais described the meetings as "constructive and positive." He said the transitional government of national unity and other parties to the agreement have welcomed the revitalization process and IGAD's plans to include opposition groups. "They all agreed to a cease-fire, support of the revitalization forum and a realistic timeline, so this is a very important step we can build on," Wais said. The revitalization forum is an initiative spearheaded by the IGAD heads of state during a meeting held in July. IGAD leaders acknowledged the 2015 peace deal has not been implemented, and directed their council of ministers to initiate a resuscitation of the agreement. Wais said although his office is optimistic about resuscitating the agreement, the path ahead is thorny. "Never say will it be easy, but ... we are very determined to lead this country to peace," he said. Observers and other parties to the peace deal, including former detainees, have warned that without the full participation of Machar, a new round of talks likely will fail. In an interview with VOA last week, John Luk Jok, spokesperson for the former detainees, pointed out that there are many South Sudanese in the bush still fighting for Machar. "The people who are shooting these days in parts of South Sudan claim to be loyal to Riek Machar and that, by itself, is not allowing the implementation of the cease-fire. The fact that he has people who think they are his supporters and who are armed, that constitutes a problem because you cannot wish that away," Jok said. IGAD is expected to convene the high-level revitalization forum sometime in December. Planting forests and other activities that harness the power of nature could play a major role in limiting global warming under the 2015 Paris agreement, an international study showed Monday. Natural climate solutions, also including protection of carbon-storing peat lands and better management of soils and grasslands, could account for 37 percent of all actions needed by 2030 under the 195-nation Paris plan, it said. Combined, the suggested "regreening of the planet" would be equivalent to halting all burning of oil worldwide, it said. "Better stewardship of the land could have a bigger role in fighting climate change than previously thought," the international team of scientists said of findings published in the U.S. journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The estimates for nature's potential, led by planting forests, were up to 30 percent higher than those envisaged by a U.N. panel of climate scientists in a 2014 report, it said. Trees soak up heat-trapping carbon dioxide as they grow and release it when they burn or rot. That makes forests, from the Amazon to Siberia, vast natural stores of greenhouse gases. Overall, better management of nature could avert 11.3 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions a year by 2030, the study said, equivalent to China's current carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel use. The Paris climate agreement, weakened by U.S. President Donald Trump's decision in June to pull out, seeks to limit a rise in global temperature to "well below" two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times. Current government pledges to cut emissions are too weak to achieve the 2C goal, meant to avert more droughts, more powerful storms, downpours and heat waves. "Fortunately, this research shows we have a huge opportunity to reshape our food and land use systems," Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever, said in a statement of Monday's findings. Climate change could jeopardize production of crops such as corn, wheat, rice and soy even as a rising global population will raise demand, he said. The study said that some of the measures would cost $10 a ton or less to avert a ton of carbon dioxide, with others up to $100 a ton to qualify as "cost-effective" by 2030. "If we are serious about climate change, then we are going to have to get serious about investing in nature," said Mark Tercek, chief executive officer of The Nature Conservancy, which led the study. Spain's high court ordered two top Catalan separatists jailed for alleged sedition while the question of the region's independence remains unclear. Prosecutors accuse Jordi Cuixart of the Omnium Cultural movement and Jordi Sanchez of the Catalan National Assembly of provoking violence against police during a pro-independence march last month. Protesters trapped officers inside a building and destroyed several police cars. "Spain jails Catalonia's civil society leaders for organizing peaceful demonstrations," Catalan President Carles Puigdemont tweeted Monday. "Sadly, we have political prisoners again," an apparent reference to Francisco Franco's military dictatorship that ended more than 40 years ago. The High Court also placed Catalan police chief Josep Lluis Trapero under investigation. The court declined to order him behind bars, but did revoke his passport to keep him from leaving the country. Meanwhile, Puigdemont has still not said whether he will declare Catalan independence outright after the court and Spanish government declared a pro-independence referendum illegal. Puigdemont had a Monday deadline to give a simple "yes" or "no" answer to the question whether he will declare independence. So far, he has only called for talks with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy and the deadline has been pushed to Thursday. A frustrated Rajoy has said the uncertainty surrounding Catalonia is hurting the Spanish economy. The economic ministry Monday cut its economic growth forecast for 2018 because of the crisis. Catalonia, Spain's most prosperous region, is home to 7.5 million people. Its capital, Barcelona, is one of Europe's major tourist attractions. Catalonia has its own language and distinct culture, and is deeply divided over independence. The Catalan government said that 90 percent of Catalans voted for independence from Spain in the October 1 referendum. Many opponents of independence boycotted the vote, reducing turnout to around 43 percent. Spain's top court ruled Catalonia's independence referendum illegal Tuesday, saying that the regional law backing it violated Spain's constitution. The Catalan government had passed the "self-determination referendum law" on September 6. Spain's high court said the law must be suspended temporarily as it assessed the Spanish government's opposition to it, but Catalonia went ahead with the referendum on October 1. According to court regulations, the suspension was to last five months while judges come up with a ruling, but the pro-independence coalition ruling Catalonia claimed that the universal right to self-determination outweighs Spain's laws. But Catalonia's government spokesperson, Jordi Turull, told reporters Tuesday that Catalonia would not "surrender" its secession bid and reiterated calls for talks with Madrid on what he called "a democratic mandate" for independence. Spain has given Catalonia until Thursday to reverse any moves it has made to secede or face direct rule from Madrid. Protests in Catalonia continued Tuesday and Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart, leaders of the separatist movement, remained jailed without bail as they are investigated for sedition. Prosecutors accuse Cuixart of the Omnium Cultural movement and Sanchez of the Catalan National Assembly of provoking violence against police during a pro-independence march last month. Catalonia, Spain's most prosperous region, is home to 7.5 million people. Its capital, Barcelona, is one of Europe's major tourist attractions. Catalonia has its own language and distinct culture, and is deeply divided over independence. The Catalan government said that 90 percent of Catalans voted for independence from Spain in the October 1 referendum. Many opponents of independence boycotted the vote, reducing turnout to around 43 percent of eligible voters. The independence dream of Iraqs Kurds may be over. It was felled by a lightening advance by Iraqi counter-terror units, trained and equipped by the United States, and Shiite militias, trained and equipped by Iran, who seized the disputed city Kirkuk and its surrounding oilfields after isolated skirmishes and a withdrawal order by Peshmerga commanders. The Peshmerga commanders either had no stomach for a fight or had already entered into a secret deal with the central government in Baghdad to retreat. Amid accusations of betrayal, Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, the Peshmerga commander of 70 Force, a key unit charged with the defense of Kirkuks southern approaches, said he had ordered his men to withdraw to protect their lives in the face of overwhelming forces. I bear all the responsibilities in success and failure, Mustafa told the Kurdish news outlet Rudaw. He dismissed claims there was a prior deal by some Peshmerga commanders to allow the Iraqi army to enter the city without a fight. In Washington, as the advance into Kirkuk unfolded, a U.S. defense spokesman told reporters Iraqi forces the United States is monitoring movements of military vehicles and personnel in the vicinity of Kirkuk. He added: These movements of military vehicles so far have been coordinated movements, not attacks. Col. Rob Manning added: We are aware of reports of a limited exchange of fireand we believe this to have been an isolated incident, he said of media reports of fighting between Iraqi and Kurdish fighters. In Irbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, rival Kurdish factions blamed each other for the loss of Kirkuk and surrounding oilfields, holding out the prospect of Kurd-on-Kurd retaliation. In Kirkuk, there were some incidents of local Kurds angry with the withdrawal firing at retreating Peshmerga. Whos Fighting? The Kurdish Peshmerga and forces loyal to Baghdad, the latter consisting of the Iraqi army, counter-terror forces and Shiite militias known as the Popular Mobilization Forces. Outside Iraq most people think of the Peshmerga as a single force but it is in fact largely split and controlled separately by rival Kurdish parties, the Democratic Party of Kurdistan, the party of Kurdistans president, Masoud Barzani, and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, which owes allegiance to the Talabani family, who are supportive of the idea of Iraq remaining one country. The withdrawal of Peshmerga forces in the face of the Iraqi advance Monday is being blamed by some of Barzanis supporters on the Patriotic Union, which they suspect cut a secret deal with Baghdad. Why is Kirkuk Important? The city is 98 kilometers south of Irbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. Command of the city dictates control of the surrounding oilfields that the Kurdistan Regional Government was banking on to make an independent Kurdistan economically viable. Without the oil, Kurdistan is even less feasible as a breakaway state than it was with the oil some critics of independence thought even before Mondays lightning strike by the Iraqi army Kurdistan would struggle to make ends meet as an independent country. Is Kirkuk a Kurdish city? The Kurds say it is. They have long disputed Arab claims, arguing that the late Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein, changed the demographic make-up of Kirkuk by moving Arab families into the city and surrounding areas. And the demographic profile of the city has undergone changes since the U.S. invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein and the war against the Islamic State terror group. But the city and the province of Kirkuk has had a highly diverse population for centuries and has been a home for Kurds, Turkmen, Arabs and Assyrians all of whom claim it as theirs. How Come Kirkuk was controlled by the Kurds? Iraqi forces fled the city on 12 June 2014 in the face of military advances by the Islamic State terror group across northern Iraq. Kurdish Peshmerga forces took over to protect the city form the jihadists. What are the interests of regional powers in the dispute over Kirkuk and what is the attitude of Washington and Moscow? None of the regional powers Turkey, Iran and Syria wanted the Iraqi Kurds to secede from Iraq. All three feared that an independent Kurdistan would encourage Kurdish separatists in their own countries. Since the independence vote last month, Tehran, Ankara and Tehran have been coordinating their responses to a degree not seen before and relations have noticeably warmed between the Turks and the Iranians with Ankara pushing to hold joint military exercises with Irans forces. Hours after the Iraqi army and Shiite militias launched their operation to seize Kirkuk, Ankara announced it was closing Turkish airspace to planes flying into and out of the KRG and would hand over the Ibrahim Halil border crossing on the KRG side of the border with Turkey, which it has controlled for months, back to the Iraqi central government. The U.S. frowned on Septembers KRG independence vote and along with European powers urged the Kurdish president, Masoud Barzani, not to hold it. The Western powers want Iraq to remain one state, fearing that if it doesnt there will be forever war pitting Kurds, Sunnis and Shiites against each other. Moscow has been more nuanced and has sought in recent years to develop cooperation with both the central government in Baghdad and the KRG. Russia has long pursued friendly relations with the Kurds stretching back to 1946 when it backed a Kurdish Autonomous Republic mainly because it undermined Western plans for Iraq. But Russian leader Vladimir Putin disapproves of breakaway states in principle fearing they will could encourage secessionist movements in Russia. In the weeks leading up to Septembers independence vote, Russian oil giant Rosneft announced a billion-dollar investment in natural gas pipelines in Kurdistan. But Moscow remained ambiguous about its position when it came to the vote. What impact will the seizing of Kirkuk have on fight against Islamic State? That is the question that most exercises Washington. If the Kurds now decide to fight back against the Iraqi army and supporting Shiite militias, it could have a major impact as it would force Baghdad to redeploy forces targeting the jihadists and distract the central government from finishing off IS. But if the Kurds dont and the Iraqis halt where they are and dont push on from the disputed territories and try to enter Irbil then the impact may be minimal. If not and open war breaks out, then IS could find room to maneuver to re-group. What Now? Having seized Kirkuk, Baghdad has all but destroyed Kurds independence ambition. The Iraqis may now turn magnanimous and search for a way to reconcile Irbil to the change in fortunes. In Kurdistan there could be some ugly recriminations between Kurdish factions. How they may play is hard to predict. Certainly President Barzani and his family come out of this weakened. The Islamic State group, responsible for some of the worst atrocities perpetrated against civilians in recent history, appears on the verge of collapse. After brutalizing residents living under its command for more than three years, the militants have now lost their self-proclaimed capital of Raqqa and are battling to hang on to relatively small pockets of territory in Iraq and Syria, besieged by local forces from all sides. Few, however, expect IS to completely go away, or for the bloodshed in the two countries and the region to end quickly. Here's a look at the Islamic State group, the rise and fall of its caliphate and what to expect next: A 'Caliphate' no more IS, which emerged from the remnants of al-Qaida in Iraq, began its spread across the Mideast in early 2014, overrunning the Iraqi city of Fallujah and parts of the nearby provincial capital of Ramadi. In Syria, it seized sole control of the city of Raqqa after driving out rival Syrian rebel factions. In June 2014, IS captured Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city, from where its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, declared a self-styled caliphate, a declaration tantamount to an earthquake that would temporarily redraw borders and shake up the entire region. IS promised justice, equality and an Islamic, religious utopia. But over the next few years, it terrorized people living under its control, systematically slaughtering members of Iraq's tiny Yazidi community, kidnapping women and girls as sex slaves, beheading Western journalists and aid workers and destroying some of the Mideast's spectacular archaeological and cultural sites. IS also attracted a motley crew of foreign fighters, mostly marginalized European youths and other foreigners who took up its cause. But it alienated mainstream Sunni Muslims, who found IS' crude interpretation of Islam also spreading in areas far from Syria and Iraq. Creating a territorial caliphate created a target, and an international anti-IS coalition soon took shape. What's left The United States launched its campaign of airstrikes against IS in Iraq in August 2014, and a month later in Syria. In Iraq, it partnered with government forces working with state-sanctioned Shiite-led militias as well as Iraqi Kurdish fighters known as peshmerga. In Syria, it partnered with local Syrian Kurdish-led fighters, the Syrian Democratic Forces. Supported by tens of thousands of U.S.-led airstrikes, these forces drove IS militants from one stronghold after another over the years. The biggest blow came in July when Mosul, long regarded as IS' administrative capital, was liberated. In Syria, IS appears to be heading for collapse as the U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, and Syrian government forces, backed by their Russian allies, are attacking them in separate, simultaneous offensives. A senior SDF commander on Tuesday said his forces liberated Raqqa from IS militants and would formally announce victory soon after clearing operations to remove land mines and search for sleeper cells. Mayadeen, a town in the heart of Syria's Euphrates River Valley near Iraq's border where the militants had been expected to make their last stand, fell to Syrian government troops over the weekend. In northern Iraq, the jihadis no longer hold any cities or towns after their stronghold of Hawija fell earlier this month. Iraq's army is now gearing up to fight IS in its last territory - the sprawling desert Anbar province stretching all the way to the Syrian border. In Syria, IS still holds the town of Boukamal near the Iraqi border and scattered pockets of territory in the east. Staggering price The destruction of IS has come at a devastating cost for both Syria and Iraq, and immense suffering for those who endured the militants' brutal reign. The fighting and airstrikes have pulverized once thriving cities, turning them into tragic vistas of crushed apartment blocks, flattened homes and collapsed roads and bridges. In Ramadi, Mosul and Raqqa, the scope of the damage is staggering. Two weeks ago, the U.S.-led coalition announced it has returned more than 83 percent of IS-held land to local populations since 2014, liberating more than 6 million Syrians and Iraqis in the process. At least 735 civilians have been unintentionally killed by coalition strikes, although activists and war monitors estimate the toll to be much higher. The nine-month battle to liberate Mosul resulted in the death of up to 1,500 Iraqi forces. At least 1,100 SDF fighters were killed in the battles for Syria's Raqqa and Deir el-Zour up until late September, according to the coalition. In the three years since IS began building its caliphate, it has killed thousands of people, displaced millions and worked hard on infusing children with extremist doctrine. Shitfting of sands The rise of the Islamic State group and subsequent wars and alliances to bring about its defeat has worsened political and sectarian fault-lines in Syria and Iraq. It gave unprecedented clout to Kurdish populations in both countries, unsettling their central governments, as well as Iran and Turkey, both battling Kurdish separatists within their own borders. Under cover of the fight against IS, Iraq's Kurds seized the oil-rich city of Kirkuk in 2014 - a move Baghdad has now reversed, moving into the city, seizing oil fields and other infrastructure in an attempt to curb Kurdish aspirations for independence. The shifting and chaotic battlefields in Syria's civil war, tensions between Kurds and ethnic Arabs, the presence of Shiite militias and government troops in predominantly Sunni towns and cities vacated by IS may lead to more violence. In many ways, the fight over IS spoils and territories is only just beginning. Uncertain future All forces battling IS will have to remain vigilant even after they recapture the last militant-held territory. In some ways, they now face an even more daunting challenge. Hisham al-Hashem, an Iraqi writer and analyst, estimates there remain 8,000 jihadis in Iraq's Anbar who will melt away like salt in water to wait for the right moment to launch their next insurgency or suicide attack. IS affiliates continue to carry out swift attacks in Egypt and Libya, where the group gained a foothold and which could be its preferred theaters of retaliations. Before it broke away from al-Qaida and rebranded itself as the Islamic State, al-Qaida in Iraq waged a years-long insurgency following the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, pushing the country to the brink of civil war. As the White House works to cut back immigration, asylum seekers are the latest group caught in the crackdown. The Trump administration released enforcement priorities last week that included tightening standards in the U.S. asylum system. While President Donald Trump's immigration policies do not specify what action will be taken, the administration seems to be working to speed up deportation proceedings for asylum petitioners. The U.S. offers asylum or protection to people who are forced to flee their own countries because of persecution due to "race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion." U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said Thursday in a speech to the Justice Department's Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) that the current asylum system is "subject to rampant abuse and fraud" and he called for tighter rules for people seeking asylum in the United States. Sessions said current policies allow applicants to take advantage of a "broken" court system that is backlogged by about 600,000 cases nationwide, although not all of them are asylum cases. "That is why I am here today. We have a crisis at our borders and we intend to fix it. A great nation cannot allow this disgrace any longer," Sessions told the audience, which included immigration judges. Tightening standards A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) memo, obtained by CNN, would clear the way for immigration judges to take away legal protections offered to unaccompanied minors by making it harder for them to claim asylum if they are reunited with a parent in the U.S., or if they turn 18 during the proceedings. Another proposal is establishing performance metrics for immigration judges something that attorneys say would only make judges work through cases at a faster pace. Mana Yegani, a Houston immigration lawyer, told VOA such guidelines will deprive people of their right to due process. "There's already a problem with immigration judges because they're not elected officials. They're hired by the Department of Justice. ... The Department of Justice pays their paycheck and they basically take guidance from the Department of Justice," Yegani said. Asylum cases explained DHS says asylum laws are expected to ensure due process to anyone caught at the U.S. border without documents or any immigrant detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) living in the United States. Any foreign national can file asylum claims regardless of their immigration status. But asylum seekers must apply within one year from the date of last arrival or show proof of an "exceptional" change based on extraordinary circumstances. Above all, asylum seekers must prove to the asylum officer that they have a "credible fear" of returning to their home country. Sessions said many of the asylum cases lack merit. The system, he said, has become "overloaded with fake claims." "It cannot deal effectively with just claims," Sessions said. "The surge in trials, hearings, appeals, bond proceedings has been overwhelming." Sessions said "credible fear claims" at the border increased from about 3,000 cases in 2009 to more than 69,000 cases in 2016. He added that 88 percent of asylum cases are approved. U.S. Customs and Immigration Service figures show the approval rate for FY2017 was 76 percent. Asylum process Yegani said the credible fear interview process is already "very difficult." "I had a client who went through a credible fear interview. She was 19 and she had been gang raped. The interviewing officer was a male. ... And she couldn't tell the officer about the gang rape. She was scared. So, she failed her interview," Yegani said. If an asylum officer denies the credible fear claim, an immigration judge reviews the questions the asylum officer asked the applicant to see if there was an error. Attorneys, however, are not allowed to speak or present new evidence during a credible fear hearing, and there are no appeals of the immigration judge's decision. Credible fear hearings usually last between five to 10 minutes. "Basically, if I go to a hearing with a judge when a credible fear is denied, I have to just sit there. [Once] I had photos of dead people from the person's family that I was able to obtain and I wanted to introduce into evidence, and it was just not accepted," Yegani said. Another requirement, attorneys said, is asylum seekers must show that law enforcement or government officials in their country of origin did nothing to protect them. "That in itself could be denial of the credible fear because they're saying you haven't established proof that your government is not willing support you," Yegani said, adding that many of her clients come from countries where they do not trust the police to keep them or their family safe. But the hardline group Federation for American Immigration Reform says asylum is risky. "We are taking at face value the claims of aliens about whom we know nothing. Because of the nature of asylum claims, the claimant's true background and history are difficult to verify, and it is nearly impossible to determine whether a claimant is bona fide," the group writes on its website. Held in detention In June, the Associated Press reported the "overwhelming majority" of asylum seekers about 70,000 were being held at family detention centers. They are placed in a "highly intrusive intensive supervision program as they await court hearings on whether they can stay in the U.S." Jeremy Jong, an attorney at Southern Poverty Law Center, said a lot of people are "weeded out" by the credible fear process, and many are not eligible to request asylum "because they've been in the U.S. for more than a year" or have been previously deported. Jong also said the EOIR's pending caseload has "many drivers," including the hiring freeze on immigration judges during the Obama administration, and the Trump administration's own directive to arrest more people and to re-calendar previously closed cases. "Who comes to the U.S. and says, 'Yes, I will be detained for maybe 6, 7, 8 months while my case is being adjudicated,' unless there's a real reason why they can't go back?" Jong said. A federal judge in Hawaii has blocked President Donald Trumps latest order restricting travel which was to go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday. The ruling by Judge Derrick Watson prohibits restrictions on travelers from six countries that the Trump administration said could not provide enough information to meet U.S. security standards. The travel order would have barred to various degrees travelers from Chad, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen. Watson's temporary restraining order did not interfere with restrictions on North Korea and Venezuela. The new travel order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the entry of more than 150 million nationals from six specified countries would be 'detrimental to the United States,'" Watson wrote in his opinion. The suit was filed by the state of Hawaii, the Muslim Association of Hawaii and various individuals. The travel order was also scrutinized in a Maryland courtroom on Monday. In a 90-minute session, U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang heard arguments brought by advocacy groups led by the International Refugee Assistance Project, which argued that the current travel order still amounts to a Muslim ban and that it exceeds presidential authority. Chuang asked about information the new, more targeted order was based on, specifically a classified Department of Homeland Security report that government lawyers have said was the basis for the new order. While Chuang blocked a key part of Trumps second travel order in March, he did not indicate how he might rule. Nor did he say if he would issue a ruling before the order takes effect. Tailored approach Trump said in the September 24 proclamation, announcing the new order: "As president, I must act to protect the security and interests of the United States and its people. The restrictions announced are tough and tailored, and they send a message to foreign governments that they must work with us to enhance security." The new ban dropped Sudan from the list, but it added Chad, Venezuela and North Korea to the original six Muslim-majority countries. And in each case, the directive varies. For Syria and North Korea, all immigrants and visitors are banned. The same is true of Iran, except that students are exempted. Immigrants and people on business or tourist visas are blocked from Chad, Libya and Yemen. Visitors from Somalia may come to the U.S. while immigrants are barred. In the case of Venezuela, only certain government officials are disallowed. The September proclamation provides varying rationales for the new strictures, thought to be more defensible in court than something more sweeping: "North Korea does not cooperate with the United States government in any respect and fails to satisfy all information-sharing requirements," the presidential declaration said. Venezuela was cited for failing to cooperate "in verifying whether its citizens pose national security or public-safety threats." U.S. officials also said the Caracas government does not willingly receive Venezuelans deported by the United States. Chad, a "valuable and important" counter-terrorism partner, failed to share terrorism-related and other public safety information, the proclamation said. Chad has responded by pulling troops from the fight against Boko Haram in Niger. President Donald Trump waded back into Southern politics Monday, showering praise on one of his earliest supporters, South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster. At a closed-door campaign fundraiser, Trump praised McMaster as his "friend" and "compatriot" and predicted McMaster would be the state's governor for "many years," according to video of the event posted by the South Carolina newspaper The State. "He's a terrific person, terrific man. He works so hard," Trump told the crowd. "He loves South Carolina, he loves the people." Trump's appearance at a private fundraiser for McMaster in Greenville came less than a month after the defeat of Sen. Luther Strange, the president's preferred candidate in a Republican runoff for a U.S. Senate seat from Alabama. McMaster greeted Trump at the airport in nearby Greer, South Carolina, before they traveled to an Embassy Suites hotel for the event. Two of the state's Republican lawmakers in Washington, Sen. Lindsey Graham and Rep. Joe Wilson, flew with Trump on Air Force One. Organizers closed the event to the news media, but several minutes of video were posted online by The State. Some in heavily Republican South Carolina see similarities between McMaster and Strange, both with impeccable Republican credentials. Strange fought same-sex marriage as Alabama attorney general. McMaster headed South Carolina's GOP for years, was its top prosecutor and was elected lieutenant governor in 2014. Both men were elevated to their current offices by appointment. Strange was appointed by then-Gov. Robert Bentley to fill the seat vacated by Attorney General Jeff Sessions. McMaster was elevated to the governor's office after Trump picked then-Gov. Nikki Haley to be the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Strange and McMaster took political risks to support Trump's presidential candidacy. Known for rewarding loyalty, Trump backed their candidacies. But Strange lost the nomination to Moore, who was twice removed as Alabama Supreme Court chief justice. The first removal was for defying a federal judge's order to take down a Ten Commandments monument from the state judicial building. He was elected again but was permanently suspended after a judicial discipline panel ruled he urged probate judges to deny marriage licenses to gay couples. Moore was propelled by his support across the mostly white, evangelical-dominated state where voters have repeatedly embraced political outsiders who campaign heavily on defending their religious values and rebuffing the establishment. Although he is the incumbent, McMaster isn't receiving political deference: several Republicans are challenging him in the primary. His most formidable opponent thus far is Catherine Templeton, an anti-union attorney who served Haley as head of the state's labor and public health departments. The Trump administration tried to woo Templeton to Washington with a job at the Department of Labor, but Templeton passed. She has amassed a campaign war chest nearly commensurate to McMaster's. Both are nearing $2 million cash on hand. Some South Carolina political analysts question whether McMaster, who is entering his fourth decade in politics, may be relying too heavily on Trump's support to boost his 2018 election chances. Chad Walldorf, a businessman who served in former Gov. Mark Sanford's administration, said he sees the parallels with Alabama. "I respect loyalty, but it seems that Trump is again misreading the situation on the ground, getting behind the establishment candidate who was not elected to his position, running against a credible agent of change who's garnering more significant grassroots support," he said, referring to Templeton. "At least from the voter standpoint, it seems to me that folks eager for change are eagerly jumping on the Templeton bandwagon." Trump, meanwhile, said McMaster was a "talented guy" and said he believed he was doing "really well." "You know I'm a poll person. Then I don't believe 'em, but I like to read 'em anyway," Trump said. Two key U.S. senators, a Republican and a Democrat, reached agreement Tuesday on a two-year deal to stabilize the country's health insurance markets and give consumers the possibility of buying cheaper policies, a deal President Donald Trump said he supports. The accord between Republican Senator Lamar Alexander and Democratic Senator Patty Murray came after weeks of negotiations between the two in the aftermath of failed efforts in recent months by the Republican-controlled Senate to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, the seven-year-old health care law championed by former President Barack Obama commonly known as Obamacare. Trump, at a White House news conference, called the deal, which would have to be approved by Congress, "a short-term solution." Trump said he still wants to overhaul Obamacare under an already-defeated plan to send federal money to each of the country's 50 states and allow them to set their own policies on providing health care for poorer Americans. Trump last week ended subsidies to insurance companies, billions of dollars in reimbursements the government was paying to the insurers to offset their costs to provide cheaper insurance policies to low-income people. Plan would restore payments The Alexander-Murray agreement would restore those payments, a policy heavily favored by Democrats and some Republicans. At the same time, in a proposal aimed at winning Republican support for the compromise, state governors, rather than state legislatures, would be given the right to approve insurance plans that provide "comparable affordability" to Obamacare plans on the market, Alexander said. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer said, "We've achieved stability if this agreement becomes law." But whether Congress will approve the Alexander-Murray proposal, even with Trump's support, is uncertain. One Republican opponent of the law, Congressman Mark Walker of North Carolina, said Republicans "should focus on repealing and replacing Obamacare, not trying to save it. This bailout is unacceptable." Polls show support for Obamacare While Democrats have uniformly lined up in support of Obamacare, Republican lawmakers have tried dozens of time, unsuccessfully, to repeal the law, which is anathema to them chiefly because it requires most Americans to buy health insurance, or pay a fine if they do not. No Republican voted for Obamacare in 2010 when a Democratic-controlled Congress narrowly passed it, with many Republican lawmakers calling it government over-reach because of the tax provision. Since then, the law has gained in popularity, with national polls showing a majority of Americans want to keep it. Most American workers get their health insurance coverage through their employers, with the government subsidizing health care payments for older, disabled and poorer Americans. Those most affected by the latest fight over the law are the 20 million people who get insurance under Obamacare, buying their insurance as individuals rather than helping pay for it at a workplace. U.N. agencies say the number of Rohingya refugees arriving in Bangladesh from Myanmar has jumped to 582,000. Nearly 60 percent of them are children. The U.N. childrens fund warns the children are living in life-threatening conditions and are susceptible to killer diseases. U.N. Childrens Fund Spokeswoman Marixie Mercado has just returned from Bangladesh near the border with Myanmar, where she saw children living in shelters perched precariously on hillsides. She says the makeshift shelters are so flimsy they are likely to collapse during a strong wind or rainfall. She says she saw children in Cox's Bazar drinking dirty water from muddy ponds, causing outbreaks of acute diarrhea. In just one week this month, she says there were 10,000 cases of the illness. She says children are suffering from skin diseases because of the unsanitary conditions. Mercado tells VOA she spoke with a group of women who recounted horrific tales of what they had experienced in Myanmar. Among them were two teenage sisters. And they were terrified because they had lost family members, so they were alone. They were terrified about their future," said Mercado. "They were terrified about having a safe place to sleep, of being protected, of having enough to eat. They were terrified of being alone. They were just terrified of their future. Unfortunately, Mercado says their fears are justified. She says UNICEF has received just seven percent of the $76 million it needs to provide emergency support to children over the next six months. Without the money, she warns the Rohingya children will lose out on every level. She says her agency will have to stop trucking safe water to 40,000 people. It will not be able to build enough latrines or provide therapeutic food to 15,000 children suffering from life-threatening severe acute malnutrition. She warns that tens of thousands of children will not have access to healthcare, and about 100,000 newly-arrived refugee children will not be immunized against killer diseases, including measles, rubella and polio. A U.N. report warns gender inequality and the denial of reproductive rights and family planning threatens development goals, weakens national economies and will undermine efforts to eliminate poverty by 2030. In its annual State of World Population report, the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA) describes the poorest women in most developing countries as the most powerless members of society. It says the poorest women have the least access to care during pregnancy and childbirth. And it says the inequality has life-long repercussions for womens health, ability to get an education and employment. UNFPA Geneva Office Director Monica Ferro said family planning is not only a human right, but necessary for womens empowerment. She said a woman or adolescent who cannot enjoy reproductive rights cannot stay healthy. She and her family will be locked into lifelong poverty and deprivation. Limited access to family planning translates into 89 million unintended pregnancies and 48 million abortions in developing countries annually. This does not only harm womens health, but also restricts their ability to join or stay in the paid labor force and move towards financial independence, Ferro said. Ferro also expressed regret over the decision by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump not to fund the U.N. Population Fund. In April, the administration announced it was cutting the U.S. contribution which in 2016 stood at $63 million. Ferro said that will take a heavy toll on the health and well-being of thousands of impoverished women in developing countries. With previous United States contribution for UNFPA, we were really fighting gender-based violence and reducing maternal deaths, especially in fragile and crisis and disaster-hit countries, Ferro said. They include Iraq, Nepal, Sudan, Syria, the Philippines, Ukraine and Yemen. Ferro added the U.S. contribution helped save the lives of thousands of women during pregnancy and childbirth. In addition, she said the organization was able to prevent thousands of unwanted pregnancies and provide other crucial family planning services. The Pentagon says U.S. airstrikes on two Islamic State training camps in Yemen have killed dozens of Islamic State fighters. The camps were in Yemen's al-Bayda region. The Pentagon says IS used the camps to train militants to carry out terror attacks with machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades, and also subjected the fighters to endurance training. "ISIS has used the ungoverned spaces of Yemen to plot, direct, instigate, resource, and recruit for attacks against America and its allies around the world," a Pentagon statement said, calling Yemen a hub for terrorist training. ISIS is an acronym for Islamic State. Islamic militants, including Islamic State and al-Qaida, have taken advantage of the chaos and Yemen's leadership vacuum to seize territory, adding to the desperation in one of the world's poorest countries. Saudi-led airstrikes against Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have killed thousands of civilians and wiped out entire neighborhoods. Food and medicine are in severely short supply, and the country is struggling with a cholera epidemic. U.S. lawmakers hailed the apparent liberation of Raqqa, Syria, as a major milestone in the fight against Islamic State, but cautioned that the terrorist group retains the ability to mount attacks in Europe and elsewhere, and that the ultimate defeat of IS will occur beyond the battlefields of Syria and Iraq. "It's a great step in combating ISIS. Raqqa is definitely an important piece of real estate, as was Mosul [Iraq]," the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Tennessee Republican Bob Corker, told VOA. "It [Raqqa] was central to their caliphate, so very important." "The concept has always been to eliminate the caliphate [that IS sought to build in the Middle East]," said the Foreign Relation Committee's top Democrat, Ben Cardin of Maryland. "Shrinking the caliphate, Raqqa falling is an important element in eliminating and containing ISIS. They lose a lot of their wealth and a lot of their credibility when they lose territory." U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces said Tuesday they seized the last remaining areas of Raqqa from Islamic State militants. The American-led coalition fighting IS said the city was "on the verge of liberation" after a protracted offensive that began in June. Islamic State has also lost territory in neighboring Iraq, notably the northern city of Mosul, giving the group an ever-shrinking base of operations. "For a while its been apparent that we were going to defeat Islamic State on the battlefield," said Senator Tim Kaine, a Virginia Democrat. "Their peak [at holding territory] was in August of 2014, and theres been a steady erosion of them being able to control territory." While welcoming the outcome in Raqqa and elsewhere, lawmakers cautioned that Islamic State remains a threat in many countries far beyond the Middle East. "What we've seen is a diffusion [of IS elements], so they go to other countries and they do a lot on the internet," Cardin said. "To strike in Paris all you need is a couple people who get the opportunity and are motivated. That's a hard thing to eliminate." "What they've been trying to do is more off-battlefield attacks here and there," Kaine said. "And what that does is put a primacy in this phase on intelligence sharing, because the way you stop the off-battlefield attack is through better and better intelligence-sharing. It makes alliances, like NATO and others, more important." Corker said defeating IS militarily is "one element of multiple elements [of the coalitions strategy] combating the ideology, suffocating them financially." That more work remains to be done should not detract from progress made so far, according to Republican Senator Cory Gardner of Colorado. "Our fight against ISIS will continue no matter where they are, no matter what they do, until they are eliminated," Gardner told VOA, using an acronym for Islamic State. "Any advance is significant and any defeat we give them is significant." Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) founding president, Morgan Tsvangirai, has lifted the suspension of senior party members following a fracas in Zimbabwe in which MDC-T vice president Thokozani Khupe was assaulted by some party supporters after a fall out over the MDC Alliance. In a statement, presidential spokesperson and director of communications in Tsvangirais office, Luke Tamborinyoka, said the MDC-T leader suspended the suspension of organizing secretary and Nkayi legislator Abednico Bhebhe and deputy treasurer general Charlton Hwende. The action by president Tsvangirai to rescind the suspensions will allow the party to focus on the key business of redirecting all energies towards voter registration and winning the elections next year, said Tamborinyoka. The two senior leaders were suspended following disturbances that took place at the partys Bulawayo provincial office in August 2017. Khupe suffered some minor injuries in the attack at the meeting, which was attended by Bhebhe, party chairman Lovemore Moyo and several other members, who have expressed reservations over the opposition alliance, designed to remove Mugabe and his ruling Zanu PF party. Khupe and her colleagues are arguing that the MDC Alliance is marginalizing the MDC-T in Bulawayo and other regions where most parliamentary and council seats will be allegedly set aside for Professor Welshman Ncubes other MDC formation. Bhebhe and Hwende were not available for comment. At the same time, Tamborinyoka said vice president Khupe on Monday paid a courtesy call on her boss party president Tsvangirai, who returned home last Friday. The two have been having strained relations following their clash over the formation of the MDC Alliance, which comprises several parties. Tsvangirai was in South Africa receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment. It's not clear whether he was getting treatment for colon cancer. A Zanu PF Youth League member says the ruling partys proposed Extra Ordinary Congress is expected to give President Robert Mugabe a life term as the leader of the party and southern African nation. Speaking at a meeting held in Manicaland, Zanu PF provincial chairperson Mbuso Chinguno, said it is befitting for the president to die in office like three of his late deputies, Simon Muzenda, Joseph Msika and John Nkomo. We want to make it clear (during the congress) that President Mugabe should be the life president. The late Muzenda died while he was vice president, Msika died in office and John Landa Nkomo died in office and therefore we think that Gushungo (Mugabe) will vacate that position when he dies, he said, amid applause. Chinguno said there are a lot of conflicts in Zanu PF as some party members want Mr. Mugabes post, even if they clearly know that he is still in office. for President Mugabe to deliver what people expect, in terms of building hospitals and bridges, there are some people who are saying that their time has come for them to rule but we are saying Gushungo has to die in that post. This inconsistence over this issue must stop. Therefore we are saying let us hold a congress (special) where we will reaffirm that President Mugabe should be our life president. But some Zanu PF supporters in Masvingo province say their voices are being left out of the debate on the proposed Extra Ordinary Congress, noting that only members of the so-called Generation 40 appear to be in the driving seat and calling for the elevation of Mugabe as life president and ouster of Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Some of the supporters, who spoke to VOA Studio 7, said they are even surprised that some G40 members, want First Lady Grace Mugabe to be one of Mr. Mugabes vice presidents. G40 is said to be led by Mrs. Mugabe, who allegedly habors presidential ambitions and has been urging President Mugabe to lay out a clear plan for his successor. The other faction, known as Team Lacoste, is allegedly led by Mnangagwa, who claimed recently that he was poisoned when he attended a Youth Interface Rally in Gwanda, Matabeleland South province. However, Mrs. Mugabe and Mnangagwa have distanced themselves from these two factions even if they have been singled out by Mugabe as causing havoc in the former liberation party. Background Langila volcano, whose activity record goes back to the 19th century only, is one of the most active volcanoes of New Britain, Papua New Guinea. Langila's frequent activity consists typically of mild-to-moderate explosive eruptions, that are sometimes accompanied by lava flows. The volcano consists of four small overlapping cones on the lower eastern flank of the extinct Talawe volcano,- the highest volcano in NW New Britain. The rectangular, 2.5-km-long crater of Talawe has a large gap to the SE; the younger Langila volcano formed NE of Talawe's breached crater. Extensive lava flows have reached the sea from the N and NE flanks of the volcano. Since observations have begun, 3 summit craters have been active. The youngest and smallest of these, with a diameter of 150 m, was formed in 1960. A new poll taken in the wake of harassment allegations against producer Harvey Weinstein, seen here in 2016, and other prominent men shows a sharp increase in Americans who see abuse as a serious problem. (Andrew Kelly/Reuters) A solid majority of Americans now say that sexual harassment in the workplace is a "serious problem" in the United States, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News poll marking a significant increase that has coincided with a period when several high-profile harassment and assault scandals have unfolded. In a 2011 Post-ABC poll, 47 percent of Americans said they felt that sexual harassment in the workplace was a serious problem. That number has now risen to 64 percent. Nearly two-thirds of Americans say men who sexually harass female co-workers usually get away with it. The new poll was conducted in the days after a sexual abuse controversy surrounding Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein made national headlines. More than 20 women including Oscar winners like Angelina Jolie and Gwyneth Paltrow as well as little-known aspiring actresses and low-level assistants shared their accounts following investigative reports by the New York Times and the New Yorker. But recent years have also seen similar allegations effectively end the careers of comedian Bill Cosby, Fox News chief executive Roger Ailes and Fox anchor Bill OReilly. Several women also accused then-candidate Donald Trump of unwanted groping last year. [Violence. Threats. Begging. Harvey Weinsteins 30-year pattern of abuse in Hollywood.] The Post-ABC survey shows that plenty of women identify with the accusers in these cases. One-third of women say that they had experienced sexual advances from a male co-worker or a man who had influence over their job, and one-third of this group of women say their male co-workers' behavior constituted sexual abuse. The trend shows little sign of fading with younger generations, with 41 percent of employed women under age 40 saying theyve received unwanted sexual advances from male co-workers, compared with 25 percent of employed women ages 40 and older. About 8 in 10 women who experienced unwanted advances involving work considered it sexual harassment, while over 3 in 10 considered it sexual abuse. When asked about unwanted sexual advances they deemed inappropriate either inside or outside their workplace, the number leaps to a 54 percent majority of women who say its happened to them, the poll shows. The level of workplace harassment found in the poll is roughly in line with numbers reported in previous studies, according to Fatima Goss Graves, president and CEO of the National Womens Law Center, a Washington-based advocacy group. She noted that certain fields such as construction, policing and the restaurant industry have typically shown higher rates. The Post-ABC poll found that 42 percent of women who had experienced harassment say they had reported such incidents to supervisors. Still, nearly 6 in 10, or 58 percent of the women, said they didnt notify anyone in a supervisory position at their job. Theres a range of reasons why people dont report. One big one is that retaliation often accompanies harassment, Goss Graves said. People who come forward risk isolation and shaming, and they risk short- or long-term damage to their careers. The steep rise in the number of Americans concerned about the issue is fueled particularly by younger adults and women with college degrees, the survey shows. The share of female college graduates saying sexual harassment is a serious problem grew from 47 percent in 2011 to 76 percent in the latest survey. Social media has added a dimension to the public discussion of harassment. In April, after it was revealed that Fox had reached settlements with several female employees who said O'Reilly had harassed them, a #droporeilly campaign emerged on Twitter. After a leaked tape captured Trump bragging about sexually assaulting women, other women who had endured abuse shared their own stories on social media, tagged their posts with #notokay. [A striking poll shows that many Trump supporters already doubted womens claims of sexual harassment even before the infamous tape] On Sunday, actress Alyssa Milano took to Twitter to encourage women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted to identity themselves with just two words: Me too. Within hours, hundreds of thousands of social-media users had done just that. Goss Graves said campaigns like these have raised tremendous awareness around notions of consent, around harassment, around being an effective bystander. She added, There has been a renewed understanding of the way in which harassment takes place. [#MeToo: Harvey Weinstein case moves thousands to tell their own stories of abuse, break silence] But the Post-ABC poll shows that most don't hold much hope that victims will find justice. A 65 percent majority of Americans, and over three-quarters of women, say men typically get away with sexually harassing women in the workplace. And among women who say they've experienced unwelcome sexual advances on the job, a whopping 94 percent say men usually avoid facing any consequences for their actions. Of the women who have faced harassment or abuse at work, 52 percent say they were left feeling humiliated. A larger 64 percent said they were intimidated, and 31 percent said they felt ashamed. But the strongest majority 83 percent said their experiences made them angry. That emotion was echoed by many of those leveling accusations against Weinstein. "We're at a point in time when women need to send a clear message that this is over," Paltrow told the Times, after describing Weinstein's advances on her more than two decades ago. "This way of treating women ends now." Concern about sexual harassment is yet another issue where partisans are growing farther apart. While 79 percent of Democrats and 66 percent of independents say harassment is a serious problem both rising over 20 points in the last six years this number falls to 42 percent among Republicans, little changed over that same period. The Post-ABC poll was conducted Oct. 11-15 among a random national sample of 1,260 adults reached on both conventional and cellular phones. The survey included an oversample of women resulting in 740 interviews, with the final sample weighted to the share of men and women in the U.S. adult population. The results from the full survey have a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 3.5 points for the full sample and four points among women. An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that the poll was conducted Oct. 12-16. The story has been updated. Scott Clement contributed to this report. 1 of 24 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad See images of a Dominican village that became home to Jewish refugees during World War II and beyond View Photos A familys personal history of fleeing the Holocaust and settling in the little town of Sosua in the Dominican Republic. Caption A familys personal history of fleeing the Holocaust and settling in the little town of Sosua in the Dominican Republic. AP Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue. The night before Kristallnacht the infamous date in November 1938 when synagogues burned across Germany and the Nazis arrested tens of thousands of Jews my fathers family escaped from Berlin and fled to one of the few places in the world willing to take in Jewish refugees. They settled in Sosua, a remote beach town on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, whose dictator, Rafael Trujillo, had offered Jews safety for a promise to develop the land. This is the story I heard countless times. It was paradise, my 89-year-old Aunt Hella would say, weaving my familys heritage into a little-known part of Holocaust history. But the story never entirely made sense. As it was told to me, a small Caribbean country saved my family at a time when more powerful nations such as the United States and Britain refused to do the same. In return, the Jews transformed a jungle coastline into a peaceful settlement with a hospital and a school. My grandfather, a salesman by trade, became the village baker. Hundreds of others accountants, nurses, tailors learned to ride horses and clear roads. The story always ended the same way, and with little explanation. Sosua had been ruined, I was told, its streets overrun by prostitutes and foreigners. The town had become a destination for sex tourism, tainted by pickpockets and drugs. My family moved away, like so many others, and never returned. My father lives in Santo Domingo, where I was raised, and his parents and two sisters ended up in Miami. People often act surprised when I tell them that Im Jewish and Dominican, and Ive yet to meet anyone who knows about Sosua. Never forget, people say about the Holocaust. But this part of Jewish history has been almost entirely lost, and the story Id been told seemed incomplete. I thought I knew the beginning and the end. In July, I left for Sosua to find out the rest. It quickly became clear why so many chose to forget. When the settlers arrived in Sosua, the beach was uninhabited. Often, they would have the entire area to themselves. (Hans Deutsch/American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee) The first thing I wanted to see was the beach. I remembered seeing photos of my father's family along the shore. The refugees would hang their clothes on sea grape trees and wade into the shallow waters. After school, the village children would often have the beach to themselves. My father warned me to stay away. The beach, he said, had become a site for prostitution and crime. Could it really be that dangerous? I remembered going there as a kid, but I hadnt been back to the town in more than a decade. I asked Ivonne Strauss de Milz, a family friend and a descendant of refugees who lives in Sosua, to take me there. Is that the purse youre taking? she asked, then instructed me to zip it shut. The shore was strewn with mismatched umbrellas and beach chairs scattered in front of hundreds of shacks selling cigars, souvenirs, Presidente beer and Dominican aphrodisiacs. It didn't look that unsafe. But around the beach, several people later told me, tourists can find any type of sex they might want: straight, gay, sex with trans people even illegal sex with minors. Prostitution has long been a part of Dominican culture, but nowhere does it feel more entrenched than in Sosua. Elsewhere, the industry exists in the grays of life, largely unregulated, widely known but rarely seen.The sex trade took off there in the 1980s and '90s, after a nearby airport opened and foreign tourists flooded the town. Over the next few decades, the hotel industry boomed, and Dominican women, facing insecure and low-paying job prospects, headed for Sosua hoping to find more profitable work. As prostitution increased, it drew more tourists looking for sex, and the town got a reputation as a major sex-tourism destination. Today, a short walk from the beach, on the main drag of Calle Pedro Clisante, dozens of prostitutes line the sidewalk in front of the busy open-air restaurants and bars filled with foreign men. Sosua has a before and after, said Alexandra Lister, a program manager with CEPROSH, a health organization based in Puerto Plata, who has worked with sex workers in the region since the 1990s. And the after isnt pretty. Many longtime locals, like Ivonne, are upset that prostitution has consumed Sosua's reputation. Efforts to discourage the trade have failed, and its prevalence means that the town's businesses hotels, restaurants, cafes benefit from it, whether the owners condone sex work or not. As we drove away, Ivonne pointed out one hotel. It was a three-story building, painted lime green and white, where she said my grandparents house had once stood. A man named Joe Benjamin had lived next door. Before my trip, several people had told me to speak with him. He understood why Sosua had changed. He was the one I was going to see next. HANDOUT IMAGE: Caf Oasis street with the Codik house in back, Sosua, Dominican Republic, 1940s. -- The story of Sosua, a Dominican village that became a haven for Jewish refugess escaping the Holocaust. (Sosua Virtual Museum) (Sosua Virtual Museum ) Joe's family arrived in Sosua in 1947, part of the last refugee group selected by the Dominican Republic Settlement Association, an organization founded by the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) in New York, which sought safety and relief for Jews. In 1938, Trujillo had offered to take in up to 100,000 refugees. In turn, the association funded and populated Sosua, but the outbreak of World War II and a 1941 Nazi ban on Jewish emigration meant that only about 4,000 visas were ever issued. The association gave farmers like Joe's father a mule, a horse, 10 cows and 75 acres of land. In the early days, urban transplants wearing wide straw hats rode horse-drawn wagons from one plot to the next. Joe told me that his father, once a furniture maker, got up at 4:30 every morning to milk his cows. On weekends, a projector would light up at the theater in town for a matinee movie. Joe and his sister would make the two-kilometer walk back to the family farm in the dark. He never told his parents where he was going. Nobody feared anything then. For decades, Joe, now 76, was an executive with a successful dairy and meat cooperative founded by Sosuas Jews. Today, he lives in a spacious house on the outskirts of town, in a plush development behind a guarded security gate. He told me how hed slept with his windows open as a kid. He remembered the town library, the cafe, the nights when everyone gathered around a record player to listen to opera. But I had heard those stories before. I wondered if that was all he knew. There was a long pause. "What else is important for me to know?" I asked. There are things you wont find in the history books, he said. Then he made a reference to a best-selling book I had never read, about a fictional small town where sex, gossip and scandal hide behind the pretense of paradise. Sosua, he said, was a small Peyton Place. I didnt understand. What did a racy novel have to do with my familys past? HANDOUT PHOTO: The Codik family in the capital of the Dominican Republic, shortly after arriving from Germany, ca. 1940. Clockwise from top left: Bruno Codik, Irma Codik, Manfred Codik, Hella Blum and Margot Labi. (Family photo) The few published works about Sosua read like history textbooks. But there were other texts and documents that I had never seen, and I knew where to find them. Next door to the town synagogue that the refugees founded is a small Jewish museum. The synagogue offers services only a few times a year and isn't visited much, and peeling paint covers the museum doors. Inside, I found a damaged photo of my Aunt Margot's wedding. Documents on display showed the stains of age. A map of Sosua had lost one of its adhesive letters and now read only "Sosu." A group of descendants, including Ivonne and Joe, had planned to raise funds for a renovation, but the efforts have yet to get off the ground. The museum archives were in a tiny air-conditioned room in the back. Dozens of boxes sat on industrial steel shelves, some labeled, others not. It was overwhelming. There was so much history here, little of it digitized, none of it known to me. I started pulling tan and crinkled sheets out of folders, searching for clues. I found a file for my Uncle Max, my Aunt Hellas husband. Stashed inside, a form detailed my aunts journey from Germany to the Dominican Republic. I had to read it twice. What it said went against every story I had been told about my familys escape from the Nazis. They didnt flee Berlin the night before Kristallnacht. Theyd left a month earlier Oct. 12, 1938 and arrived in the Dominican Republic in November. A separate list of settlers revealed that the family arrived in Sosua in stages, starting in 1947, much later than Id thought. Settlers examine new kitchenware at the colony's general store. Sosua, Dominican Republic, 1940s. -- The story of Sosua, a Dominican village that became a haven for Jewish refugess escaping the Holocaust. (American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee) (Hans Deutsch) Leaving on the eve of Kristallnacht had always been a key part of our story, a hurried exit from Berlin at just the right moment, before Nazi mobs stormed Jewish neighborhoods, killing at least 91 Jews, and anti-Semitism took a more violent and radical turn. So was their time in Sosua, but the reality was that they didnt arrive there until after the war. I had never asked about the timeline. Instead, I pictured them abandoning an apartment in Berlin and finding refuge in a rustic home in Sosua. It was a reminder of how stories, consciously or not, can be romanticized as we retell them, even to ourselves. I started digging deeper into the archives, looking for anything that could provide a hint about what Joe had told me. Fraying papers, many stashed haphazardly in folders and boxes, detailed transcripts of meetings, vital records, academic papers and memos sent from Sosua to the settlement association in New York. On one shelf, I saw a narrow light-blue box labeled "exit interviews." Ivonne, who helps run the museum, had never seen it before, and from the looks of what was inside, nobody had seen it for years. I pulled it onto the table. Inside were several testimonials from refugees, all men, who had abandoned Sosua and were apparently questioned by the settlement association about why they'd left. I could not stay [sic] the sun, said a 29-year-old Austrian. I had nothing to do there, said a 27-year-old Romanian. The agricultural work was too hard for me, said a 34-year-old Pole. A settlers two-story residence in Sosua, photographed in the 1940s. (Hans Deutsch/American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee) Then there were two others, Tibor Meister, a 24-year-old Hungarian textile technician, and Louis Lajos Klein, a 28-year-old Czech mechanic, who cited not the town's conditions, but tensions in Sosua that left them both feeling panicked. Meister said he was threatened by a group of German Jews in the dormitory. I have been attacked by some twelve men while sleeping in my bed, Klein said. That is why I preferred to leave Sosua of fear they might repeat it or kill me. Until then, Id heard that people left Sosua in search of better work or education. No one had ever mentioned violence. Could it have been true? The JDC doesn't have a record of the incident, but in "Tropical Zion: General Trujillo, FDR and the Jews of Sosua," historian Allen Wells says the settlement association asked 45 troublemakers "discontented colonists" whose presence was undermining morale to leave Sosua for Ciudad Trujillo in 1942. Meister and Klein and the others could have been part of that group. Among other files, I found an analysis written by former settler Ann Bandler for Columbia University in 1956. She suggested that Sosuas administration had demonstrated an impractical idealismand blamed it for much of what had gone wrong. With proper planning and management, these middle-class, white-collar Europeans could have built the new life they had been promised. Instead, the early settlers had felt dispirited and pessimistic from the start. Settlers at work in the garden. (Hans Deutsch/American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee) They came to Sosua unprepared, unexperienced, unselected, the document said. It is not sufficient to benevolently take these people away from their past sufferings and only deposit them in an undeveloped area. A parade of experts, Bandler wrote, had made plans for Sosua, advising the refugees to plant bananas, raise livestock or grow tomatoes; that last effort resulted in such a failure that a large surplus of tomatoes spoiled and was thrown into the sea. The land they had been instructed to develop turned out to be better suited for pasture than farming, and the Jews ended up finding success in a dairy and meat operation that ironically sold pork. But the administrations unkept promises and poor directions bred resentment, Bandler wrote, until antagonism toward it became the main bond among the settlers. The JDC acknowledges that Sosuas refugees faced considerable challenges. The context under which these efforts occurred was totally unprecedented: a war raging, the Holocaust in full force and many countries closing their doors to Jews, Linda Levi, director of the JDC archives, later wrote me in an email. Still, with every page I read, the story that Sosua had been some sort of paradise, the story I had always been told, started to come apart. The Jewish museum includes a town map that has lost one of its adhesive letters and now only spells Sosu. (Emily Codik/The Washington Post) Documents hidden away in the archives revealed tensions I had never heard about, between Austrians and Germans, between those who lived in town and those on farms, and those who wanted to improve the community and those who wanted to abandon it and immigrate to the United States. It wasnt unusual for the Jews to fight among themselves. People screamed at each other at community meetings. Divisions emerged over who would be the boss and how to address the towns problems. On a warm night, while one refugee listened to a German radio broadcast, another became enraged by the propaganda, according to a manuscript written by a former resident, Ernest B. Hofeller. "He entered his room, ripped the radio out of its socket causing a short circuit and smashed it," Hofeller wrote. One main reason Sosua fell apart, several refugees said in interviews, was simple. It wasnt only the backbreaking agricultural work, the infighting, the culture shock or the desire to find a better life in the States. "There were very, very few girls," refugee Ruth Kohn, 90, now living in Springfield, Va., told me. Single men had trouble finding marriageable partners in Sosua, giving them even less reason to stay. In 1942, according to the JDC, among a population of 472 were 158 single men and 38 single women. The settlement association had looked for young men with an agricultural background who could develop the land, and women were less likely to leave Europe on their own. Trujillo also sought out men, hoping that the wave of immigrants from Europe would intermarry with Dominicans and "whiten" his nation's people. Settlers had to ask the administration for permission any time they wanted to leave Sosua, and the nearest major town was hours away by horseback or about an hour by car, making romance between Dominicans and Jews difficult. These conditions helped spawn cases of adultery in the small community, constantly witnessed and whispered about. You never knew in the morning when you woke up which young man had slept with a married woman, Kohn said. But it wasnt only single men sleeping with married women. The settlers gossiped about both husbands and wives engaging in affairs, Joe Benjamin told me, and the Columbia University analysis mentioned a sexual turpitude that had resulted in cases of syphilis. It made me think of a short passage in "Dominican Haven: The Jewish Refugee Settlement in Sosua," one of the few books published about the town, that now made a lot more sense. In the 255-page book, a few paragraphs, easily overlooked, mentioned these dalliances: In 1942, doctors "warned men to stay away from bordellos and unknown women and, assuming their advice would be ignored, to use condoms." The bordellos in question were in Charamicos, a poor neighborhood on the south end of the beach. The refugees had populated El Batey on the north end, and those looking for sex would discreetly venture south. Todays sex industry is completely different, employing women from across the Dominican Republic and Haiti, who take spins around town and on the beach looking for clients. "Everything is just much more visible," said Denise Brennan, a Georgetown University professor who wrote the book "What's Love Got to Do With It?" about Sosua's sex industry. Still, it was the Jews not the tourists blamed for Sosuas demise who first visited prostitutes. But that part of the story had been conveniently lost in the retelling. SOSUA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC JULY 31: A Star of David monument near the shore in Sosua commemorates its Jewish history, photographed July 31, 2017. -- The story of Sosua, a Dominican village that became a haven for Jewish refugess escaping the Holocaust. (Emily Codik / The Washington Post) When I got back from Sosua, I called my Aunt Hella and told her that the archives told a different story about our family's journey. She said that the night before Kristallnacht must have been when they arrived in the Dominican Republic, not when they left Berlin. She told me that the first few years in the country were hard my grandparents struggled to learn Spanish and earn money. Records the JDC sent me revealed more details: In Santo Domingo, then called Ciudad Trujillo, my grandfather tried selling tableware, peddling kitchen coal, working as a carpenter and serving as a messenger. But despite working hard, he said he still couldnt make a living. Maybe thats why he decided to move to Sosua. My Aunt Hella was the first to go, after marrying my Uncle Max, one of Sosuas early settlers, at 19. The rest followed her. Hella and Max stayed in Sosua only a few years. My grandparents lived there through the late 1950s, while my Aunt Margot and Uncle Vittorio remained until the 1960s. It was hard getting used to life in Sosua, Aunt Hella said, but she refused to believe the story about the attack in the barracks. That must have happened before she got there, she said. She never saw any violence like that. I asked her about the affairs. Yes, people would trade partners, she said. That was a mess. Why dont people talk about those things? I told her that Id gone to Sosua to find out what had happened. I left thinking that idealism has always been a part of the town, woven even into the stories we tell. There were challenges in Sosua, she said, but everyone could live however they wanted, far from the Nazis and without fear of persecution. They were free, she said. That was what mattered, of course. Sosua's legacy is that it saved so many lives. It's easier to hide the story's difficult aspects in a dusty box in a locked room in a small beach town, and it's more comfortable to remember the town as a perfect haven. But the stories we tell ourselves become history, and the full version of what happened in Sosua is being lost. The town has become so foreign to those who left that some have vowed never to return, pushing it deep into their memories. My Aunt Hella told me about one of the last times she visited, with her brother-in-law, Vittorio, more than a decade ago. She stood in the middle of the town, stunned at how things had changed, and turned to her brother-in-law. Lets forget about this, she said. This story was supported by a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. Cranberry marshes at Wetherby Cranberry Co. in Warrens, Wis., are flooded to make harvesting easier. (Kate Silver for The Washington Post) Its gray and raining and about 65 degrees, but more than 70 people are lined up in a field in central Wisconsin, undeterred by the gloom or the wait. Their eyes are fixed on a lagoon thats pink with thousands of floating baubles: cranberries. In the Badger State, late September to late October is cranberry season, and hundreds of devotees and curiosity seekers have come here, to Wetherby Cranberry Co. in the town of Warrens, for Harvest Day, when they tour the sprawling marshes by bus and, literally, dip their toes into the cranberry experience. For $10 extra, they can pull on a pair of hip-high waders and step out into the water to have their photo taken amid the cran-jewels. Dont equate cranberries with Wisconsin? I didnt either until I moved to neighboring Illinois and dreamed of bog wading as I read the stats: Wisconsin produces about 60 percent of the countrys cranberries and about 50 percent of the worlds cranberries. Its the official state fruit and the states largest fruit crop, both in value and acreage, with 21,000 acres and about 250 farms most of which are family-run, with some six generations deep. The nearly $1 billion industry employs more than 4,000 people, and it has a deep history in the area, says Tom Lochner, executive director of the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association. Highway 173, a.k.a. the Cranberry Highway, between Wisconsin Rapids and Warrens, offers plenty of cranberry-centric views, including an Ocean Spray operation. (Kate Silver for The Washington Post) Cranberries grew here in Wisconsin for eons, said Lochner. The Native Americans collected and harvested them, and they used them for food, they used them for dye; they used them for medicine; and they traded them when early European settlers came in the mid-1800s, he said. Lochner explains that the European immigrants then began cultivating cranberries themselves, and the commercial industry was born. Every fall, cranberry lovers flood the state for festivals, parades and marsh tours here and farther north. Things to do in Milwaukee Me? Id arrived the night before, determined to immerse myself in a Wisconsin cranberry adventure, waders and all. As someone who commits obsessively to a theme, I opted to stay Le Chateau: The Manor Bed & Breakfast in Wisconsin Rapids. The Queen Anne Victorian dates back to 1889, when it was built by John Arpin, a lumber baron who also has a history with you guessed it cranberries. They grew wild on the land he used for his lumber business. The B&B is offering a cranberry harvest package, which includes a gift bag with cranberry snacks and pamphlets with cranberry facts. Plus, guests have the option to tour Glacial Lake Cranberries, which now cultivates the cranberries on that same land that Arpin once used for his lumber. (I skipped the tour because it was only open to B&B guests, and for the purpose of the story I wanted to find a marsh tour open to the general public.) I was delighted to find that Faye Collier, who owns the B&B with her husband, Bill, also likes to commit to a theme: Breakfast included, among other items, pumpkin cranberry bread with cranberry butter, cranberry raisin bread pudding and cranberry juice. I also chose the B&B for its location in Wisconsin Rapids. Its about a 50-minute drive to reach Wetherby Cranberry Co., and much of the route travels along the Cranberry Highway, which passes cranberry operation after cranberry operation on Highway 173 (theres also a giant Ocean Spray building; the company is a cooperative that works with local growers). I set out along the rainy road a little after 8 a.m., and, cranberry novice that I am, I eyed every water feature, be it ditch, pond, lake or puddle, manically wondering, Is it a bog? Is it a bog? Is it a bog? Is it a bog? I didnt seem to see any cranberries, but reasoned that maybe the red simply wasnt popping beneath the gray sky, all while noticing that the gravel along the road and the ruddy changing leaves had cranberry undertones. Babcock Cafe in Babcock, Wis., serves a variety of cranberry pies, including cranberry nut with ice cream, pictured here. (Kate Silver for The Washington Post) When I got to Wetherby, a family-owned cranberry company that dates back to 1903, it was clear that my eyes hadnt missed any cranberries earlier. There, in the marshes (confession: I didnt once hear the word bog, from any one in the business, only from my mouth and other visitors), the water was blushing and, it seemed, bouncing with the buoyant berries, so bright and surprising against the gray that they demand attention. All around, the fields are made up of low-lying rectangles (the cranberry beds) separated by dikes and surrounded by ditches. On a bus tour, we learned that the fruit doesnt actually grow in the water. Rather, the beds are flooded for harvest so that the air-pocket-filled berries, which develop on scraggly vines close to the ground, rise to the top and can be more easily plucked up by the harvesting equipment and then sold fresh or processed. Hate travel planning? Take a surprise vacation! After waiting nearly an hour in line for the waders, it was my turn, and it was even stranger than Id hoped it might be. With my rubber boots up to my hips, I slowly stepped into the chilly water and walked over the tangled plants that once held the berries. I plunged my hands in and the fruit felt buoyant, bouncy, light somehow making the water feel thick and bouncy as well. Local helpers stood by to take photos for visitors, and Id left my camera with a fresh-faced blonde wearing a tiara and sash that said Cranberry Princess. (I later learned that she was crowned at the Warrens Cranberry Festival in September, where she was judged on a number of categories, including a brief cranberry food demonstration.) She saw me reach into the water and grab two handfuls of the berries. You can throw them if you want! she encouraged. And as I tossed them in the air like bouncy red balls, she snapped the best souvenir I could hope for. After the tour, I hopped in my car and drove four miles to the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center. The basement serves as a cranberry museum, shedding more light on the cranberrys history. (The name cranberry, for example, is inspired by the shape of the blossom that grows on the fruit in early summer it looks like a sandhill crane and was originally called a crane berry.) Placards revealed insights on frost protection that made me wish Id listened more closely during my physics classes. (When temperatures get close to 32 degrees, cranberry growers actually turn on their irrigation systems so that the water can freeze around the cranberry and protect it. As water turns to ice, a small amount of heat is released, which helps protect the vines and berries from frost damage.) If theres cranberry in it, the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center in Warrens probably has it in its extensive retail section. (Kate Silver for The Washington Post) Upstairs, in the retail space/ice cream shop, it was hard to not fall into a monologue a la Forrest Gump while perusing all the options: cranberry salsa, cranberry barbecue sauce, cranberry vinegar, cranberry ice cream, cranberry coffee, cranberry taffy, cranberry wine, cranberry beer, strawberry-flavored dried cranberries, chocolate-covered-cranberries. I left with cranberry-filled hands. As I wound back down the Cranberry Highway, homeward bound, I looked at the marshes with a new appreciation and understanding, and the inner is-it-a-bog? monologue was quieted. I decided to make one final stop before leaving cranberry country: a place called Babcock Cafe, about a half-hour west of Wisconsin Rapids. The restaurant is a plain-looking building with beige siding the only attention-grabbing things were a sign reading World Famous Pies and the fact that the parking lot was packed. Lochner had mentioned this place when I asked if he had any favorite haunts for cranberry treats. The cranberry nut pie with a little ice cream on it, he said. I would recommend that. When the executive director of the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers mentions a category favorite, you listen. The pie was delicious it was the cranberry on top of my themed weekend. Want to get in on the cranberry action? Wetherby Cranberry Co. will offer group tours Saturday, Oct. 21; reservations required; adults $20 adults; students $10; 5 and under free; private tours also available; freshcranberries.com; 715-579-1001. Splash of Red Cranberry Tours in Pittsville is in the area and also offers tours led by high school students studying cranberry science every Wednesday and Friday in October. There are also a few companies in the north part of the state offering tours. visit the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association to learn more at wiscran.org. Silver is a writer based in Chicago. Find her on Twitter: @K8Silver. More from Travel: Chicago has 3 new places for adults to release their inner children For travelers, monastery stays offer peace and quiet, regardless of faith Commemorating Lincoln's death in the city where he spent most of his life Bill Havu, far right, was in the Natty Bumpo when the band opened for Jimi Hendrix for five nights in 1967 at the Ambassador Theatre. The other members were, from left: Charles Smith, Marty Baum and Cam Bruce (wearing a mask). (N/A) Columnist You've heard the adage: The show must go on. And so, when Mitch Mitchell, Jimi Hendrix's drummer, was struck with acute appendicitis on Aug. 10, 1967, before an afternoon gig at the District's Ambassador Theatre, someone would have to pick up the sticks. That someone was Bill Havu, a 20-year-old college dropout who played in the psychedelic D.C. band the Natty Bumpo. "I was kind of shoved into it," Bill told me over the phone from Denver, where he runs an art gallery. Bill wasn't the only drummer in the Natty Bumpo. He and bandmate Marty Baum would trade back and forth during gigs. Hed play drums when I played bass. Hed play guitar when I played drums, Bill said. We sort of had this quick back and forth. When Hendrix asked us, You want to play drums? Marty said, You go ahead. One moment I was in a suit and tie going to the College of the South, the next moment I was onstage with Jimi Hendrix, says Bill Havu, now 70. (Sharon Meriash) Their band was the opening act during Hendrix's five-day run at the Ambassador, which for six glorious months hosted concerts at 18th Street and Columbia Road NW. The theater's 50th anniversary is being marked with a free afternoon get-together on Oct. 28 at the Songbyrd in Adams Morgan. (Visit SongbyrdDC.com for information.) The Hendrix shows have attained mythical status. The guitarist had taken London by storm but hadn't yet released an album in the States. Over the course of the week, more and more people went to see him, including members of the Who after the band's gig at DAR Constitution Hall. Hendrix even set a guitar on fire one night, reportedly the last time he ever did that in public. Thursday was to include a free afternoon performance of three or four songs for kids in the neighborhood. Thats the one Bill was tapped to play when the manic Mitchell got sick. (Or sick. Bill suspects that the English drummer just didnt want to play such a low-stakes show. Mitchell showed up for the evening gig.) As a drummer myself, I had many questions for Bill, starting with: Whose drum kit did he play? Mitchells or his own? I was offered his, Bill said. I said no, basically out of hubris, but also because I was more familiar with my set. That was a "nice set of black oyster pearl Ludwigs just like Ringo Starr's. He was my hero." Said Bill: "In retrospect, I've always thought I should have used [Mitchell's] drums. His drums were tuned and sounded quite different from mine. Jimi and Noel [bassist Noel Redding] were more used to that sound and totally unfamiliar with mine." Bill had first heard Hendrixs songs only the night before. Now he would be playing them with their creator, the man many would soon consider the best guitarist in rock and roll. I didnt know the songs. I didnt know where the breaks were, Bill said. I laid down a pretty heavy beat and kept it there. What I didnt realize was that even though there was a monitor right next to the drum set thats a speaker thats supposed to let musicians hear one another it was so overpoweringly loud that I couldnt hear Noel that well. He kept coming over and nudging me and saying, Speed up, speed up. It was hard to take it all in, because of the volume. It was about twice our volume. I felt as though I had to play louder. The drums were micd, so I think I overpowered it a little bit, just because I was hearing this wall of sound behind me. That sounds like an aural metaphor for the tumultuous Sixties. So tell me, Bill, what was Washington like in those days? It was really difficult to put everything in perspective, said Bill, 70. You were just caught up in the wave. You couldnt really take your time and pause, because there would be an assassination, then there would be a riot, then another assassination. Then thered be the news of the war, videos of the bombing on the television. Then Jimi Hendrix, then the Who. It was so much high-octane stuff for your brain and your soul to get a handle on, all you could do was just try to keep your head above water. In retrospect, I still look at it as a jumble. One moment I was in a suit and tie going to the College of the South, the next moment I was onstage with Jimi Hendrix. And you know what? It went okay. Bill may not have been as flashy as Mitchell, but he said he didnt embarrass himself. The Ambassador was demolished in 1969. Mitchell died in 2008. Bill has never seen a photo from that afternoon, though he thinks there must be one out there somewhere. He does carry one reminder. I remember going to hit the crash cymbal, Bill said. I hit my finger on the edge of my cymbal and cut it wide open. I was bleeding while I was playing. Blood was flying. I still have the scar. Twitter: @johnkelly For previous columns, visit washingtonpost.com/johnkelly. A plaque honoring Confederate soldiers was placed on the Jefferson County Courthouse in West Virginia, where slaves were once sold. (Michael S. Williamson/The Washington Post) he last significant Civil War battle in Jefferson County took place in August 1864 at Smithfield Crossing, a five-day slog between Union and Confederate forces that left some 300 casualties and neither side able to claim victory. But now a new skirmish with ties to the Civil War is brewing in the county seat, a picturesque town of 5,200 founded in 1786 by George Washingtons youngest brother, Charles, that sits just 63 miles from the nations capital. It is being waged not with bullets and bayonets, but with letters, public hearings and angry Facebook posts that serve as another reminder that the country has never fully erased the deepest lines of division and distrust of a war that ended 152 years ago. The focus of this new dispute is the fate of a plaque no larger than a cookie sheet that hangs next to the entrance of the Jefferson County Courthouse. It reads: 1861-1865 In honor and memory of the Confederate soldiers of Jefferson County, who served in the War Between the States. Erected by the Leetown Chapter #231 United Daughters of the Confederacy. Also on the plaque is the day of its placement: Erected May 25, 1986. Linda Ballard is one of the concerned women in Charles Town who is offended by the plaque, left, that honors Confederate soldiers. (Michael S. Williamson/The Washington Post) Many visitors to the courthouse there to conduct business, handle legal matters, fill out marriage licenses, vote walk past the sign without ever noticing it. Many, but not all. A year ago, Linda Ballard and her friends, all black women in their 60s and 70s who grew up in the county or live there now, took their granddaughters on the John Brown tour of Charles Town. The tour traces the last days of the abolitionist whose failed effort to lead a slave rebellion in 1859 resulted in his capture, trial in the Jefferson County Courthouse and hanging a few blocks away. As they entered the courthouse, the women noticed the plaque. It stopped them cold. They didnt understand why a tribute to soldiers from the side fighting to preserve slavery had such a prominent spot. We thought, Well, why is this here? Why do we have to walk past this sign on a public building? Ballard remembered. Our ancestors were enslaved in Jefferson County. I dont care where they put it, but take it from the entrance to the courthouse. The women were struck that there was no plaque honoring Union soldiers. Nor any acknowledgment that enslaved people their ancestors were sold and traded on those very courthouse steps. And why was a plaque honoring Confederates on the building that replaced the original courthouse, which was shelled and destroyed by Confederate troops? The date of the plaque also raised questions. Why, the women wondered, had the Daughters of the Confederacy waited 121 years after the war to place a tribute to Confederate soldiers? Who approved it? And did it have anything to do with 1986 being the same year Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federal holiday? The questions perturbed the women, and so they vowed to act. They considered asking the county for equal billing for Union troops, or for a mention of the courthouse as the site of slave auctions. As they pondered what to do, they witnessed bitter debates crop up across the nation over the legacy of Confederate statues and memorials. And then Charlottesville happened. Racial violence ripped through the Virginia town when white supremacists and neo-Nazis marched Aug. 12 to protest the planned removal of a Confederate statue. In its aftermath, President Trumps declaration that blame was due on both sides the white supremacists and those protesting them sparked furor and further rent a deeply divided country. At stake was nothing short of who decides what history of the nation is told and how that is done. Three days after Charlottesville, the women wrote a letter to the commissioners of Jefferson County, where blacks make up about 7 percent of the 56,000 residents, requesting that the bronze plaque sanctifying the Confederacy be removed. It is impossible to enter the courthouse to conduct business or to even vote without being taunted by its presence, they wrote. The plaque perpetuates division at all levels on a wider scale. The six women Ballard, Janet Baylor, Sylvia Gregory, Gloria Lindsey, Verdeana Lindsey and Brenda McCray asked for the plaque to be taken down without fanfare. They didnt want to make a big fuss. They just wanted the commissioners to do what was just. They would be disappointed. Small radical minority Peter Onoszko, president of the five-member Jefferson County Commission, didnt hesitate to put the womens request before his colleagues. Their letter was presented for public discussion at the commissions Sept. 7 meeting. That day it didnt take long before Ballard and the other women began to feel things would not go their way. Onoszko talked about Americas lengthy path toward reconciliation after the war and the tortuous history of reconciliation between black and white Americans. He cited progress in civil rights and achievements, including the election of a black president and the prominent positions African Americans had reached in the military and on the Supreme Court. But then Onoszko talked of the small radical minority among both white and black Americans who seek to undermine over a century and a half of progress toward reconciliation between regions of America and the races of America, creating harmful division and discord among our people and threatening to destroy our country. This has absolutely got to stop, he said. We are all Americans. The public followed Onoszkos lead during the open session. What were seeing today is a deliberate attempt to divide us in every way possible, said Gary Dungan, who is white and lives in Jefferson County. If they get their way with this little plaque, they will be back. And by they, I mean the radical minority that Commissioner Onoszko referred to. Theyll be back looking for something bigger. And it will never end unless you end it here today. The women who wrote the letter sat stunned as they waited their turn to speak. Two of the women use canes. One requires an oxygen tank. They do not feel like radical minorities. They describe themselves as six concerned American citizens. Radical minorities? Where is this coming from? thought McCray. We are all human beings, we are not animals like they think we are. When it was Ballards turn to speak, she said the women were present because our ancestors are not here to represent themselves. We are hopeful, she told the commissioners, that in the memory of the people that were enslaved here in Jefferson County and of those who had the goal of preserving the Union that that plaque will be removed. Most residents that day spoke in favor of keeping the plaque, including some veterans who said all veterans should be honored, no matter which side they fought for in the Civil War. One speaker said it would be Stalinesque to remove the plaque. When the discussion ended, the commissions four Republicans and one Democrat, all of whom are white, voted 5 to 0 to keep the plaque. Then they created a citizens committee to look further into how forebears should be remembered at the courthouse. But they changed their minds, voting on Oct. 5 to scrap the citizens committee. The results are disappointing to the women who asked for the plaques removal. But not unexpected. They still want it gone. And they still have questions about how it ended up there in the first place. Thats just not our way Polly Wharton has some answers about the plaques origins. Wharton was president of the Leetown chapter of the Daughters of the Confederacy in 1986 when the plaque was placed on the courthouse. The chapter has since disbanded, but Wharton, 74, remains a member of the national group and lives just outside Charles Town. The plaque, she said in an interview, had nothing to do with the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. It was conceived solely as a project to honor ancestors of chapter members. West Virginia was formed during the Civil War when it seceded from Virginia and was eventually admitted into the Union in 1863. But many residents of the new states easternmost panhandle, which includes Jefferson County, continued to support and fight for the Confederacy. Im sorry theyre upset about it, Wharton said. We did not mean to offend anybody at all when we put it up there. People say it refers to supporting slavery and it does not. Our ancestors did not have slaves and we do not believe in slavery and we never did. It really hurts our feelings that theyre saying that. Wharton says the chapter got an okay from the courthouse to put up the plaque but doesnt recall if the County Commission voted on it. She said she has not been contacted by anyone from the county about the plaque. Onoszko says the commission has not been able to find any record of a vote on the plaque. Though Wharton doesnt want the plaque taken down, she wont fight a decision to move it. I also read an article saying that we were for the white extremists and we are not for that, she said. We are not for all this fighting against the removal even if they take it down. Thats just not our way. Both sides in the controversy agree that the battle over the small plaque is symbolic. And they also agree that its important. In the Spirit of Jefferson, the local newspaper founded in 1844, the debate has played out in robust coverage, pointed editorials and spirited posts on the papers Facebook page. This issue has become a big flash point, said Robert Snyder, the weekly papers publisher, whose wife, Christine Snyder, is the managing editor and principal reporter. This is an area that still lingers in the residue of the Civil War. The paper has called for the plaques removal, sparking some backlash. There should be a plaque for the est. 650,000 Americans killed after Lincolns army invaded Virginia, one resident wrote. This [is] all about tearing America down so a small minority of radicals can instill their version of communism on us, said another. In an interview, Onoszko said he wants to keep the plaque because "it's reflective of what happened in the 1860s and also because it is reflective of the mood of the local populace in 1986." It shows, he says, that 121 years after the war ended, the descendants of those who fought wanted to publicly acknowledge their ancestors. And, he argued, the soldiers honored by the plaque were fighting for each other, not for the cause of slavery. The majority of whites living in the South did not own slaves, Onoszko said. A lot of slaveholders had no more than three or four. For Ballard and her friends, the problem is not that the plaque exists, but that it is displayed on a prominent public building that serves as the governmental hub of the county. What kind of message are you sending? she asks. We dont have any qualms about these people honoring whoever they want. The courthouse is not the place to do it. Line leader Sononia Drake tells students to hold hands out while leading them to Samuel FB Morse Elementary as part of the "walking school bus" program. (Karl Merton Ferron/Baltimore Sun) Moments after dismissal, hundreds of students pour outside from the back doors of Frederick Elementary School in Baltimore. Some hop into waiting cars while others begin the short walk to row homes on nearby blocks. But a small group of children hangs back, forming a single-file line against a chain-link fence, and waits to be led home by adults in whats called a walking school bus which doesnt actually involve a bus. The idea is simple. Under adult supervision, a group of kids walk to and from school together through Southwest Baltimores Mill Hill and Carrollton Ridge neighborhoods while playing games, singing songs and learning tips on crossing the street safely. Its a more common practice in suburban communities, but its gaining popularity in Baltimore. School officials say the walking school bus helps neighborhood children facing a longer walk to school after the closure of the underutilized Samuel F.B. Morse Elementary school nearby. Frederick and Samuel F.B. Morse merged this year as part of the 21st Century Schools program, a $1 billion initiative to rebuild the citys aging school buildings. Frederick was one of the first schools to benefit from the massive investment. It reopened this year with $31 million worth of renovations. [Trump budget casualty: After-school programs for 1.6 million kids.] Capitalizing on the new schools, the city is targeting areas around those schools for improvements such as better sidewalks and tree planting. Still, the closure of Samuel F.B. Morse upset parents like Dannie Stubbs. The neighborhood school was a two-minute walk from his Carrollton Ridge home, and he could take his daughter Myasia there each morning with plenty of time for him to get to work. Frederick is about a half-mile further, along streets Stubbs doesnt want his six-year-old daughter walking alone, for fear of criminal activity. The city school system only provides yellow bus service to elementary schoolers who live more than a mile from their neighborhood school. But Stubbs and Myasia, his first-grade daughter, have embraced the walking school bus. She gets to school happy, and she gets home happy, Stubbs said. Now she travels to school alongside about 10 schoolmates. As they snake along sidewalks, the kids play I-Spy, Simon Says and sing songs. Three adult staff members walk with the group, keeping an eye out for cars or other potential dangers. The staff doesnt let the students embark on their walk until everyones shoes are tied they want to eliminate the risk of tripping on loose laces. Typically, such initiatives are volunteer-based, with a rotating cast of neighborhood parents acting as chaperons. In the Frederick Elementary model, though, the role is a paid, part-time job for local residents, adding to the programs professionalism and providing a small economic boost to the community. The Baltimore Curriculum Project, which runs Frederick Elementary as a public charter school, picks up the tab. The top concern of parents is how kids would travel safely to and from school, said Larry Schugam, the Curriculum Projects executive vice president. We learned about walking school buses and identified that as one of the solutions. The walking school bus is beneficial for a variety of reasons, said Marieannette Otero of the Safe Routes to School National Partnership. Not only can adult supervisors ensure student safety, but it encourages physical activity, too, she said. The walking school bus lends itself well to getting kids moving and providing more safety, Otero said. I hope were going to start seeing it being replicated throughout the city. Sabrina Wiggins, Frederick Elementarys community liaison, said her schools walking bus is the first shes heard of that pays its bus captains a stipend. Each staff member must pass a background check and get trained on basic pedestrian safety skills. Their job doesnt end when they drop off students in the morning they join the children in the cafeteria for breakfast and escort some of them to their first classes. Were not just here to walk them back and forth, Michael Shumam, 33, said. Were here as mentors as well. Thelma Terrell, 74, is retired and has lived near Frederick for almost her entire life. The $10.50 per hour she earns helps her pay bills. She also loves being around the children. You get attached to them, said Terrell, whom the kids refer to as Mama T. If a child had a bad night, you can see if theyre somewhat disturbed in the morning. You can give them inspiration to know its going to be a good day. Sometimes they talk about difficult matters, too. As the students walk home, theyll sometimes step over broken liquor bottles, cigarette butts or drug paraphernalia. The children occasionally have to swerve around piles of dumped trash. And they often pass in front of boarded-up vacant homes. The kids know more than we think they do, Terrell said. Theyve very observant. We try to make them aware of what they need to avoid. [D.C. Public Schools use market research to boost enrollment efforts] Recently, though, the city has taken steps to improve the route Frederick students take to school. Along the bus route, children walk along recently repaired sidewalks, cross roads on freshly painted crosswalks and step under newly planted trees. The city has committed more than $1 million to making such improvements within a half-mile radius of Frederick through its INSPIRE Program. The idea is that stronger schools lead to stronger neighborhoods, and vice versa. The money has gone toward demolition efforts, street resurfacing and tree planting, among other improvements. City officials also have worked to clear out common dumping spaces. The upgrades are focused mainly on areas the students see and use when they walk to school. There are plans to make similar improvements in each of the neighborhoods immediately surrounding a 21st Century School. Between 23 and 28 school buildings are expected to be rebuilt under the program in coming years. Each of these buildings represents tens of millions of dollars in investments, INSPIRE planner Jennifer Leonard said. We recognized there was a real opportunity to leverage that to make other changes in the neighborhood, as well. The INSPIRE program is developing improvement plans for the neighborhoods surrounding eight other 21st Century schools. The idea is to focus on the quarter-mile area around each of the modernized buildings. The limited geographic area will allow for specific, changes to be made quickly and with concentrated impact, officials say. If we dont make an effort around this effort at this time, weve really missed an opportunity, Leonard said. In many of their preliminary plans for neighborhoods, the planning department recommends communities implement a walking school bus to ensure safe travel to and from schools. Its definitely picking up, said Wiggins, the community liaison from Frederick Elementary. I think were going to start seeing a lot of people using the walking school bus soon. Central American immigrants await transportation to a U.S. Border Patrol processing center after crossing the Rio Grande from Mexico into the Texas in 2014. (John Moore/Getty Images) The American Civil Liberties Union is accusing the Trump administration of illegally blocking a 17-year-old Central American immigrant from having an abortion and will urge a federal judge in Washington on Wednesday to clear the way for her and other young immigrants to terminate their pregnancies. Known as "Jane Doe" in federal court, the teenager is one of thousands of unaccompanied minors who have crossed the border illegally. She is being held in South Texas and has permission from a state judge to have an abortion, but she says federal officials refuse to transport her to a clinic. Its unprecedented, its unconstitutional, and its also unconscionable, said Brigitte Amiri, a senior ACLU staff lawyer and attorney for the girl, who filed suit through her court-appointed guardian. Blocking access to abortion for unaccompanied minors is downright cruel. The ACLU alleges that federal employees in Texas went as far as to visit the girl to talk her out of the procedure and took her to a Christian crisis pregnancy center, where she allegedly received an ultrasound against her will. Lawyers are seeking an emergency restraining order preventing the government from interfering with the girl's plan to undergo an abortion and a preliminary injunction to protect others in her situation. The hearing is at noon in U.S. District Court in Washington. The Department of Health and Human Services, which is responsible for caring for detained unaccompanied minors, said this week that there is no constitutional right for an immigrant minor to get an elective abortion while in federal custody. Officials said they are required to care for immigrant children and teens through the program, including an unborn baby. On Tuesday, an HHS official said Scott Lloyd, who directs the agency's Office of Refugee Resettlement, had personally intervened to try to persuade unaccompanied minor girls not to have abortions. The official, who was authorized to comment only as an unnamed spokesman, declined to say whether those girls were blocked from getting the procedure or to comment on Jane Doe's case. Lloyd's office contracts with shelters to house unaccompanied minors until they can be reunited with family members. When theres a child in the program who is pregnant, he has been reaching out to her and trying to help as much as possible with life-affirming options, the spokesman said. He by law has custody of these children, and just like a foster parent, he knows that thats a lot of responsibility and he is going to make choices that he thinks are best for both the mother and the child. The spokesman said the Office of Refugee Resettlement is reviewing its medical policy for the minors, with plans to clarify issues related to abortion in the next few weeks. Court records show that on March 30, Lloyd said in an email that federally funded shelters should not be supporting abortion services pre or post-release; only pregnancy services and life-affirming options counseling. There are about 5,000 unaccompanied minors in the offices custody. Jane Does case has drawn the attention of immigration hard-liners and antiabortion groups, as well as abortion rights advocates. In a brief supporting HHS, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) said it would be breaking new ground to declare that undocumented immigrants with "no substantial ties" to the United States have a constitutional right to "abortion on demand." Siding with the ACLU would effectively announce that anyone on Earth has any number of constitutional rights simply by being apprehended at the United States border, he wrote. The ACLU argues that the Trump administration's position violates Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court ruling that grants women the right to an abortion. In addition to blocking abortions, lawyers say, the administration is also illegally forcing unaccompanied minors to tell their parents or sponsors about their pregnancies or to visit antiabortion crisis pregnancy centers. "They are holding her hostage to ensure that she does not have an abortion, but rather continues the pregnancy, and has a baby, against her will," the ACLU said in a legal brief urging U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan to rule in their favor. "Entirely shutting off a person's access to abortion services is the greatest conceivable 'undue burden' on a person's constitutional right to an abortion it prohibits her from exercising her rights at all." A federal magistrate judge in California agreed with the ACLU when lawyers tried to add the girl to a related case there. The judge declined, because the girl is in Texas, but said she would have ruled in their favor. The government may not want to facilitate abortion, but it cannot block it, U.S. Magistrate Judge Laurel Beeler ruled on Oct. 11. The teenager is more than 14 weeks pregnant. Texas law bars terminating pregnancies after 20 weeks. The House recently passed similar legislation that President Trump endorsed, though it is unlikely to pass the Senate. Robert Carey, director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement under President Barack Obama from 2015 until Trump took office, said it would be unusual for a person in his position to personally approach a minor in his custody. I would not have seen that as appropriate, Carey said. I was involved in weighing in on policy decisions but would not have intervened in individual cases like this. During his tenure, the office was forbidden from paying for abortions, except in cases of rape, incest or a threat to the womans life, Carey said. The office did, however, pick up the cost of transporting girls to abortion clinics as a matter of policy. Carey said some pregnant minors may have suffered sexual abuse in their home country or during the trek north to cross the border. Adult federal detainees also have access to abortions, according to federal court records. Two members of Congress wrote to acting HHS secretary Eric Hargan this week about the case. It is troubling to consider that this Administration is imposing its ideological agenda on girls, wrote Rep. Beto ORourke (D-Tex.) and Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.). To force a girl to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term against her expressed will . . . is wrong and unlawful. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) has endorsed former NAACP president Ben Jealous in his bid for Maryland governor. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) Former NAACP president Ben Jealous continues to pull in endorsements in his bid for Maryland governor. The latest nod comes from U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.). Booker called Jealous one of the most compelling voices of the X Generation and said he is all in to do whatever Jealous, a political neophyte, needs to help him win the 2018 Democratic nomination and unseat Gov. Larry Hogan (R). Jealous is a proven leader who brings an authentic voice, said Booker, who described himself as a raving fan. He is part of this next generation of leadership that brings with it an honoring of past tradition and innovative ideas in a more entrepreneurial way. On Thursday, Booker, who is seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party, plans to join Jealous for a meet-and-greet with voters in Prince Georges County, the home base of county executive and gubernatorial candidate Rushern L. Baker III. Booker's endorsement comes just days after the Maryland/D.C. council of the Service Employees International Union, one of the state's largest unions, announced its support of Jealous's candidacy. In the last several months, Jealous has also received support from Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and several progressive groups, including Maryland Working Families and Our Revolution. In addition to Baker and Jealous, other candidates in the Democratic gubernatorial nomination primary are Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz; state Sen. Richard S. Madaleno Jr.; attorney Jim Shea; tech entrepreneur Alec Ross; Krishanti Vignarajah, a former policy aide to Michelle Obama; and policy consultant Maya Rockeymoore Cummings. Passengers on a tour bus apparently got to see more than they bargained for in Washington on Sunday night when the driver was reportedly struck while near the White House, bringing officers from the Secret Service and the D.C. police to the scene. As reported by authorities, the incident occurred about 8 p.m. Sunday on the north side of Lafayette Square, in the 1600 block of H Street NW. The site is about a block north of the White House grounds. A D.C. police report said only that one person was hit and did not describe the victims occupation. However, a news account indicated that the person struck was the driver of the bus. Police said an arrest was made on a charge of simple assault, a misdemeanor. A Washington television station, WTTG (Channel 5), posted on its website a statement that it said was sent by the Big Bus tour bus company, confirming that the incident occurred. The statement said the driver remains in a state of shock but is fortunately in good condition. Big Bus operates open-top double decker tour buses on fixed routes in the District. It offers riders that opportunity of getting on and off at a number of designated stops. No explanation for the alleged attack was immediately available. The account provided by Channel 5 indicated that the alleged attacker boarded the bus at the site of the incident. Online court records said that a plea of not guilty was entered Monday in the case. The people who live at the Iowa Condominium overlooking Logan Circle awoke Monday to find their underground garage a crime scene: more than three dozen cars with windows shattered or cracked and police compiling a list of victims. What many cannot understand is why nothing appears to have been taken. A police report lists 41 vehicles as being damaged 38 with busted windows and three with cracked glass. He just randomly hit cars, said Christopher With, 73, one of the victims who lives in the building in the 1300 block of 13th Street NW. There are some expensive cars that he totally missed or didnt try for. He tried to get into my 85 Honda, which had nothing in it of value. D.C. police said they arrested Lendale Christie, 36, of no fixed address and charged him with burglary and destruction of property. A D.C. Superior Court judge on Monday ordered Christie detained until a preliminary hearing scheduled for Thursday. His attorney declined to comment. A police report credits an unnamed witness with notifying authorities after seeing a man inside the secured garage under the buildings courtyard. He ran when police arrived, according to the report, and was arrested in an alley a block away from the seven-story building with 97 residences. Police said they have video surveillance of the suspect entering and exiting the garage but declined to elaborate. Several residents said they thought the man sneaked in as another person exited or entered. Judy M. Harrison, president of the condominium association board of directors, said a vehicle she had rented was damaged. She said she was awaiting answers from the property managers as to how the break-in was accomplished. Were a strong group of people, Harrison said. Im sure well continue to remind ourselves to practice good security when we come in and out of the building. Representatives of the property management company did not return calls seeking comment. With, who is retired from the education department of the National Gallery of Art, said someone broke into the garage and damaged vehicles about a year ago. In that case, he said, a crowbar was used to pry open the garage door. After that, residents had cameras and other security devices installed. With said that this time, his Hondas doors were unlocked, though it appears the person who tried to break in didnt notice. He tried to jimmy the glass out of the frame, With said. He couldve just opened the door. Calls about a possible active shooter at Howard University on Tuesday that drew a large police response came after a students ex-boyfriend repeatedly threatened her and warned her about being on campus, according to law enforcement officials and court documents. Police found no gun and no shooter and said they were looking into the alleged threats. Several officials said the man had been rejected for the universitys medical program and barred from the Northwest Washington campus two weeks ago. They believe the calls about a shooter were made by people concerned about the young womans safety and fueled by false rumors. The ex-girlfriend had obtained a temporary protection order against the man and said in her court petition that he told her, Do not go to campus and there are those that will see you hurt more than words. She wrote that he warned her that going to police is unacceptable and that he knew she had an exam Tuesday and that he would be there. Police said the young man was not in custody but was being investigated. The shooting scare came during the run-up to Howards homecoming celebration this weekend and the anticipated visit by thousands of graduates and others for activities at the historically black college founded in 1867. D.C. police reacted swiftly to the emergency calls, sending more than 100 officers, many armed with semiautomatic rifles. They searched three campus buildings, closed streets and put the campus under lockdown for two hours. Classes were canceled for the day. 1 of 9 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad The scene as police investigate reports of a shooting at Howard University View Photos Authorities investigate a report of a shooting at Howard University in Washington, although they initially found no indication that shots were fired. Caption Authorities investigate a report of a shooting at Howard University in Washington, although they initially found no indication that shots were fired. Bill O'Leary Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue. We have found no evidence that supports there was a shooting on our campus, Howards interim police chief, Alonzo F. Joy Jr., told reporters after the all-clear was given. He warned of some serious repercussions if we identify a person responsible for the incident, but he declined to discuss specifics. Students interviewed said there had been rumors about a disturbance on campus Tuesday. Danea Rutherford, 19, said she and her friends did not take it seriously because Howard officials had not warned of any threats. They were in a classroom in a campus building when they saw police cars. It was scary, she said. We kept on hearing the dogs, we kept on seeing police running. Rutherford said she saw police long before she received an alert from the university. While she and others barricaded the classroom door, someone was trying to get inside the room, said Rutherford, a sophomore at Howard. They didnt immediately realize it was a Howard official. We were on the phone with our parents, and everyone just stopped and looked at the door, she said. I couldnt move. I was like, We get shot today, I dont know what to say. The incident began to unfold shortly before noon at the university, which is off Georgia and Michigan avenues. Joy said the first call to campus police reported a shooting at the College of Medicine building near the 2400 block of Sixth Street NW. Campus officers reported that they did not hear any gunshots but began to search the floors. At 12:02 p.m., another call this one anonymous reporting a shooting at Howards administrative building came in to the Districts 911 center, the Office of Unified Communication. Officials said it was the first of five separate 911 calls reporting a shooting. Howard Universitys student newspaper, the Hilltop, posted an image of the schools alerts on Twitter. According to the tweet, at 12:42 p.m., a message went out reading: ALERT!! There is a report of an ARMED person throughout the campus shelter in place while police investigate. Asked if police notified students quickly enough, the universitys president, Wayne A.I. Frederick, said, I think that we were doing the best we could with the limited information we had. Officials said they had not determined the genesis of the calls. Two law enforcement officials said some or all may have come from the ex-girlfriends worried friends or relatives, and they are exploring whether allegations about a shooting circulated on social media before the calls to police were made. The officials said all the calls were from people who believed a shooting had occurred. The officials said D.C. police did not know about the prior threats before they responded. Police searched the medicine building and an attached annex, the administrative building, and a third office. The alert was lifted at 2:05 p.m. The ex-girlfriend had filed for the protective order in D.C. Superior Court on Friday. She detailed several days of alleged abuse, along with threatening emails. She wrote that among those threatened were her cat and relatives, and she said her former boyfriend told her he had secretly installed cameras in her campus residence. The woman said in the petition that she saw the man on campus Sept. 29 and felt uncomfortable. Dana Hedgpeth contributed to this report. One MS-13 member clicked a cigar cutter open and closed with a metallic ring, while another told the 15-year-old they would cut her fingers off, the prosecutor said. Another gang member asked where the gasoline was so they could burn the girl up. Ten members and associates of MS-13 lured Damaris A. Reyes Rivas to a Springfield park in January because they wanted revenge. They blamed the Gaithersburg teen for the death of their cliques leader, Christian Sosa Rivas, whose body had been dumped in the Potomac about a week earlier. Venus Romero Iraheta, 17, who was Sosa Rivass girlfriend, told Damaris her fate would be the same. Venus told her she was going to die that day as Christian did in the cold, Fairfax County Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Katherine Stott said in a Fairfax County courtroom Tuesday. Damaris was forced to strip off her shirt and shoes and stand in the snow in frigid weather. Graffiti marks a highway bridge in Springfield, Va., near where police found 15-year-old Damaris A. Reyes Rivass body on Feb. 11, 2017. (Michael Miller/The Washington Post) Stott then recounted the ruthless slaying of Damaris, whose killing, along with that of Sosa Rivas and the abduction of another teen, has led to the arrests of 18 young people and highlighted the resurgence of MS-13, the regions largest and most violent gang. Damariss killers were remorseless, capturing her final minutes in gruesome cellphone videos. [She thought she saved her daughter from MS-13 by smuggling her to the United States. She was wrong.] The chilling recitation came as three associates of MS-13 pleaded guilty to charges in Fairfax related to Damariss killing, the first convictions in a case that grabbed headlines locally and nationally. Cindy Blanco Hernandez, 19, of Reston and Aldair J. Miranda Carcamo, 18, and Emerson Fugon Lopez, 17, both of Springfield, entered pleas to abduction and, in two cases, gang participation, as part of deals with prosecutors. They face up to 20 or 30 years in prison when they are sentenced May 11. Attorneys for all three defendants said in court that their clients did not directly participate in Damariss slaying or did not know of the plans to kill her. Court records show all are slated to be witnesses in the upcoming trials of three other defendants charged directly in Damariss killing. All 10 defendants in the case are young between 15 and 21. Stott said the plot to kill Damaris began Jan. 8 when Jose Castillo Rivas, who is charged with murder in the case, picked up Damaris and drove her to Springfields Lake Accotink Park. Damaris thought she was going to smoke marijuana, but the other MS-13 members and associates were waiting for her. Rivas, Iraheta also charged with murder and other male members of the gang allegedly took Damaris into the woods and began interrogating her about Sosa Rivass killing. Damaris was questioned about a rival MS-13 leader who was thought to have orchestrated Sosa Rivass slaying. Stott said Damaris offered to deliver him to the gang members. At an earlier hearing in the case, FBI special agent Fernando Uribe testified that Damaris acknowledged that shed had a sexual relationship with Sosa Rivas. Sosa Rivas was slain around New Years Eve in a Dumfries, Va., park after allegedly being lured there by an ex-girlfriend, according to a federal indictment in the case that does not name the former girlfriend. Sosa Rivas was stabbed and beaten with machetes, rocks and tree branches before his body was sunk in the Potomac River, according to the indictment. Federal prosecutors said gang members brought Pine Sol to clean their machetes and that the killing was approved by leaders of the transnational gang in El Salvador. Eight people have been charged in that case. [Federal indictment details killing of Christian Sosa Rivas] After Damariss interrogation in the Springfield park, the group drove her to a location nearby, Stott said. Damaris was again taken into the woods. Stott said all 10 of the MS-13 members and associates attacked Damaris by punching and kicking her and hitting her with sticks. Iraheta, who is charged as an adult, then confronted Damaris a final time, Uribe testified at the earlier hearing. Iraheta cut a dollar-sign tattoo, which Sosa Rivas had given her, off Damariss hand. Iraheta then listed her full name so Damaris would know the name of her killer, Uribe testified. [Venus] told the victim she would never forgive her and would see her in hell, Uribe told a judge. Then, Iraheta allegedly plunged a knife into the teen 13 times. She is scheduled to stand trial on a murder charge in January. Two other MS-13 members jabbed a sharpened stick into Damariss neck, Stott said. The attack, which was filmed on cellphones, showed Damaris bleeding amid dead leaves in the woods, according to a search warrant filed in the case. Authorities allege that Jose Torres Cerrato, 17, another MS-13 associate charged with murder, hoped to send the video back to MS-13 leaders in El Salvador as proof of his willingness to do the bidding of the gang. Damariss killing was also greenlighted by gang leaders there, and Cerrato was promoted after Damariss killing, authorities said. Stott said some members of MS-13 returned to the location where Damaris was killed later that night. They dragged her body beneath a Beltway overpass, placing her facedown in a puddle. They stacked railroad ties on her body. The killing was not the end of the mayhem. Stott said that two days later, Cindy Blanco Hernandez, Aldair J. Miranda Carcamo, Iraheta and others participated in the abduction of 16-year-old Lizzy Colindres of Springfield. Jose Castillo Rivas, a suspect in Damaris's killing and the father of Colindres's 5-month-old son, was set to appear in court on a charge that he violated a protective order Colindres took out against him. Stott said the group threatened Colindres with death if she did not drop the charge and turn over her son to Rivas. Colindres and her family eventually went to police. Damariss slaying was discovered after investigators in Prince William County found the videos of her killing while probing Sosa Rivass death. Stott said authorities were able to locate Damaris's body because Cerrato participated in the killing while wearing a court-ordered electronic ankle monitor that recorded his location on the day of Damaris's slaying. Damariss mother told The Washington Post this year that her daughter went missing in mid-December and had come under the sway of MS-13. Maria Reyes said she had brought Damaris to the United States from her native El Salvador in the hopes of escaping such gang violence. The other trials in the case are scheduled for later this year and early next year. Jason Kessler spoke during a news conference at Charlottesville City Hall on Aug. 13. (Tasos Katopodis/European Pressphoto Agency) The man who organized the Charlottesville white nationalist rally that led to the death of a counterprotester was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly shared the home address of an anti-racism activist online. [The man who organized the Charlottesville rally is in hiding and too toxic for the alt-right] Jason Kessler is a conservative blogger who organized the August Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, where 32-year-old Heather Heyer, a counterprotester, was run down by a driver alleged to be a white nationalist. On Tuesday, Kessler, who was shouted down by angry onlookers at a news conference after Heyers death, was arrested for allegedly publishing the name or photograph of a person along with such persons primary residence address with the intent to coerce, intimidate or harass, said Miriam Dickler, a spokeswoman for the city of Charlottesville. The warrant for Kesslers arrest wasnt immediately available for review, and Dickler did not identify the victim. However, Emily Gorcenski, an activist who lives in Charlottesville, said that she filed a complaint against Kessler and that a warrant had been issued. Gorcenski, who estimated that she was less than 15 feet from Heyer when the latter was killed, said she filed the complaint against Kessler after a Twitter account he controls tweeted out her home address this month. She said police responded to the address after someone falsely reported a person with a gun there. Hes been targeting me directly or indirectly for quite some time, Gorcenski said in an interview. This account that is evidently linked to him has led to an actual crime. (A spokeswoman for Charlottesville police said officers responded to an unfounded claim of a disorder at the address on Oct. 8.) Kessler didnt immediately respond to a request for comment, but he denied responsibility for the incident on Twitter. Ive been to the cops and courts probably a dozen times complaining about people posting my address & they dont care, he wrote in one tweet. But someone alleges that an account I dont run listed their PUBLICLY AVAILABLE address & Im charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. He added: The Communist judiciary in Charlottesville is now charging me with crimes for tweets that OTHER PEOPLE made. Kessler, who was released on bond, also faces perjury charges related to a January incident in which he assaulted a man in Charlottesville. Kessler initially claimed that the other man was the aggressor before a surveillance tape appeared to show otherwise. Ill admit that what I did was not legal, Kessler said after pleading guilty to the assault charge. I was having a bad day. Ive never done anything like this before, and it will never happen again. Andrew Chin/Getty Images for ABATom Petty apparently was honored by family and friends at a private ceremony on Monday. Petty's daughter, Los Angeles artist AnnaKim Violette, shared images on Instagram that appeared to be from the ceremony including one of the Golden Lotus Archway at the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades, California, where George Harrison's funeral was held in 2001. She also shared an image showing a black-and-white photo of Petty above a vase of flowers. "The dark of the sun we will stand together," she wrote. According to the Shrine's website, the Lake Shrine Temple grounds were closed to the public Monday. Violette also posted a picture of herself posing with a photo of her father writing, "This is very hard for me." Petty died October 2 at 66. Copyright 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. THE DISTRICT Man in costume jumps White House barrier A Kentucky man dressed as the Pokemon character Pikachu jumped a concrete barrier outside the White House Tuesday morning and was quickly taken into custody, according to the Secret Service and a police report. During the incident, D.C. police said the person dressed as the short, chubby yellow cartoon dropped a backpack near the southern fence along E Street Northwest. Police and fire departments were called to the scene; police and the Secret Service said the backpack contained nothing hazardous. Curtis Combs, 36, of Somerset, Kentucky, was charged with unlawful entry. The incident occurred about 9:45 a.m. along E Street, near the Ellipse. The Secret Service said Combs was near an outer perimeter fence when he jumped the barrier. He stated to police he was unarmed and started climbing the fence, the police report says. The fence is marked by a sign: Restricted Area Do Not Enter. Authorities did not describe a motive. Peter Hermann MARYLAND U-Md. shooting is drug-related, police say A shooting outside the University of Maryland at College Park on Saturday stemmed from a drug sale, according to Prince Georges County police. Authorities said Tuesday they charged Jenare Marriott, 26, of no fixed address, with attempted murder, robbery and assault in connection with the nonfatal shooting. The shooting occurred about 8:20 p.m. on Saturday in the 7500 block of Rhode Island Avenue about a block away from the campus, police said. Police responding to the report of a shooting found one man shot and another injured. Both are university students, police said. Lynh Bui VIRGINIA Man dies in crash; tried to pass truck Authorities have identified a man who died in a crash when his vehicle struck another car head-on as he tried to pass a tractor-trailer along a road in Loudoun County. The incident unfolded just before 5 a.m. Friday on Route 9, about a mile west of Route 611, outside Hillsboro. The driver of a Kia, Kevin R. Bell, 60, of Inwood, W.Va., died at the scene, according to police. He was wearing a seat belt. The driver of a Dodge Charger was taken to a hospital with serious injuries. Dana Hedgpeth Former vice president Joe Biden takes a selfie with attendees at the end of a political rally in Newark, Oct. 12. (Eduardo Munoz/Reuters) Former vice president Joe Biden has waded into one of the most watched statehouse races in the country, endorsing a Prince William County Democrat who is trying to oust a longtime incumbent and become the first openly transgender individual elected in Virginia. Biden, who has called transgender rights the "civil rights issue of our time," issued a statement Monday in support of Danica Roem and four other Democrats running for the House of Delegates in November, part of a push by the state party to end or weaken the Republican Party's 16-year dominance in the chamber. The statement emailed to Virginias Democratic Party cited Roems focus on transportation, including ways to improve traffic-clogged Route 28. As someone who spent decades riding the train to work, Im proud today to endorse Danica Roems historic candidacy, because I know her emphasis on improving transportation infrastructure is critical to improving the quality of life for thousands of Virginians, Biden said. I know shed make people of her lifelong home of Prince William County proud by working to improve their commutes and strengthen the middle class while serving them with compassion in Richmond and Manassas. Roem, who is in a heated battle with Del. Robert G. Marshall (R), declared herself "humbled" by Biden's endorsement. I have made transportation policy my top priority, she said. This helps us entirely. Biden campaigned in Northern Virginia last weekend for gubernatorial candidate Ralph Northam (D), currently the states lieutenant governor. He also endorsed four other Democratic state House candidates: first-term incumbent Del. John J. Bell of Chantilly, a 26-year Air Force veteran who faces Republican challenger Subba Kolla; Jennifer Carroll Foy, who is running against Republican Michael David Makee for the open House District 2 seat in Prince William County; David Reid of Ashburn, who is challenging Del. Thomas A. Tag Greason (R) for the House District 32 seat; and Elizabeth Guzman, who is challenging Del. L. Scott Lingamfelter (R) in House District 31. Biden called Bell a proven leader . . . [who] has a track record of getting things done across the aisle and advocating for his constituents. Republicans have a 66-to-34 majority in the House, and all 100 seats are on the ballot Nov. 7. According to the latest campaign finance filings, Democratic House of Delegates incumbents, challengers and leadership PACs raised $5.7 million through September, while Republicans raised $3.6 million. But Republicans are sitting on an enormous treasury, built up over years: They had $8.4 million in accounts heading into October, according to an analysis of the latest data by the Virginia Public Access Project, while Democratic House candidates had $5.1 million. View Graphic The latest stories and details on the 2017 Virginia general election and race for governor. Roem, who has raised nearly $500,000 in 2017, lost her cash-on-hand edge to Marshall in September after spending more than $200,000, including on two ads. She ended the month with $78,000 available. Marshall, who had raised about $50,000 through August, picked up his fundraising pace in September, taking in $82,103, including a $20,000 check from the chairman of a group that opposes transgender rights. He ended the month with $173,000 available. Residents of a Manassas mobile-home park who had been threatened with eviction will very likely be able to stay in their homes after the city agreed to allow a local nonprofit agency to buy the property. The Manassas City Council voted unanimously Monday night to enable Catholics for Housing, a Northern Virginia nonprofit group, to purchase the East End mobile-home park for $1.4 million. The site had been declared a health hazard by the city after years of unrepaired sewer leaks. About 18 months ago, the city signed an agreement to buy the property, provided the 300 tenants on the 57 lots were evicted so that the sewer pipes could be removed. The vote Monday night means that instead, Catholics for Housing can become the landlord for the families, most of whom are Latino immigrants. Under the terms of the sale, which was not yet completed, the nonprofit group would assume responsibility for fixing the sewer system, at an estimated cost of $1.5 million; keep monthly lot fees at $650 for almost all the residents for at least five years; fix the parks crumbling roads; and plow them after snowstorms. We are doing this for the express purpose of sustaining these homes for the residents of East End, said Catholics for Housing Executive Director Karen DeVito. Were going to make this happen, and its going to work. An empty trailer sits in the East End Mobile Home Park in Manassas. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post) Timothy Cope, the attorney for the current property owner, the Helen Loretta Clarke Trust, did not respond to phone calls seeking comment. DeVito said that the organization expects to complete the purchase in early November, after submitting construction drawings and bonds to the city. Once the sewer lines are fixed, she said, they will be incorporated into the citys public sewer system, which means the city will repair and maintain the lines in the future. Catholics for Housing is preparing new, multi-year leases for the tenants, DeVito said. The city had an April 2016 contract with the Helen Loretta Clarke Trust to buy the property for $1.8 million. Residents were told in August 2016 that they had until February 2017 to leave. Tenants said they could not afford to move their trailers to another park or find other housing in the expensive Washington area. We are all poor. . . . The cost of living is too high, Selfo Sosa, a construction worker who has lived at East End since 2012, said last spring. On the advice of a pro bono attorney, residents began withholding about $170,000 in monthly lot fees, part of a court case to try to force the landowner to fix the sewer lines. That money will now go toward repairing the lines, officials said. View Graphic The latest stories and details on the 2017 Virginia general election and race for governor. This is huge, this is great, and it was accomplished without a lawsuit, said Victor M. Glasberg, the Alexandria lawyer who threatened to sue on behalf of the tenants. In the end, everyone did what they should have done from the beginning. The pipes flooded raw sewage after rainstorms, leaving a strong odor, biting insects and ruined floors in the modest homes. That attracted the attention of city officials around 2008. They say they spent six years trying to get the property owner to fix the pipes. Pope said the trust could not afford the repair. The porous lines allowed up to 200,000 gallons of rainwater a day to drain toward the Upper Occoquan water treatment plant, eating up capacity that officials say soon will be needed for new commercial and residential development. Several would-be rescuers appeared and disappeared in 2016 and early 2017 before Catholics for Housing came forward. The organization is a small nonprofit that manages 18 other rental properties in Arlington, Fairfax and Fredericksburg and co-owns its original property in Vienna. State Sen. Jennifer T. Wexton is the only elected official in the field of Democrats seeking the nomination to run against Rep. Barbara Comstock. (Salwan Georges/The Washington Post) State Sen. Jennifer T. Wexton (Loudoun) outraised her rivals for the Democratic nomination to challenge Rep. Barbara Comstock (R) next year, while anti-human trafficking activist Alison Friedman has the most cash on hand, according to new campaign finance reports. Wexton, the only elected official in the Democratic nomination contest, raised the most in the reporting period that spanned July 1 to Sept. 30, with $255,075. In the previous quarter, she had been behind in fundraising for the race, with $201,964. The Northern Virginia district could be among the nations most competitive, and eight Democrats are seeking their partys nomination. Hillary Clinton bested Trump in the 10th District, which includes all of Loudoun County and parts of Fairfax and Prince William counties as well as all of Frederick and Clarke counties to the west. Wexton has $345,640 cash on hand, which is in line with communications strategist Lindsey Davis Stovers war chest. Stover raised $137,137 in the most recent quarter, a drop from her previous quarterly total of $306,351. Army veteran Dan Helmer also raised less this quarter, with $163,139 compared with $365,721 previously, but has a healthy $397,941 cash on hand. In September, Helmer released a video spoofing a "Top Gun" scene in which he sang "You've Lost That Centrist Feeling" to a Comstock look-alike. The ad was widely derided and caught the attention of comedian Stephen Colbert, who aired it on "The Late Show" last month. But Helmer's campaign spokeswoman said the attention translated into a fundraising bump. Fundraising for Wexton, Stover and Helmer, however, lags behind that of Friedman, who has $553,456 cash on hand. She raised $241,857 in the most recent quarter and $452,329 the one before the strongest showing among Democratic candidates in the District at that time. The nomination contest is still months away, and Democrats say fundraising and attention will pick up after the Virginia governor's race in three weeks. Its still very early, said David Wasserman, who analyzes House races for the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, and none of them have even raised enough money to go up on Washington, D.C., television for a week. Theres still a lot of money they need to raise. At this point, theyve demonstrated that theyre serious. And in terms of money, none has caught up with Comstock, who is seeking a third term. She raised $447,993 in the latest quarter, for a total of $1,328,294. She has $985,348 cash on hand. View Graphic The latest stories and details on the 2017 Virginia general election and race for governor. The congresswomans political director, Ken Nunnenkamp, said Democrats have spent more than $20 million trying to defeat Comstock in three campaigns for state delegate and two for Congress. Barbaras always been underestimated and we dont expect that to change. Barbaras always overperformed, and that wont change either, he said in a statement. There are three other Democrats raising money to challenge Comstock. School founder Deep Sran has $150,305 cash on hand and has lent his campaign $62,698. Retired naval intelligence officer Dave Hanson has $8,506, and educator Kimberly Adams has $6,656. Financial consultant Michael Pomerleano filed paperwork apparently closing his campaign account, according to FEC records. He did not return messages Monday. Julia Biggins, a scientist from Manassas, filed the paperwork to run as a Democrat last week and announced her candidacy on Facebook. Attempts to reach her were unsuccessful. Democrats will choose a method of nomination whether a state-run primary or a party-run caucus next month. Theres still time for a self-funded candidate to emerge in the race and shake things up, Wasserman, the analyst, noted. He pointed to an example from Maryland: Wine magnate David Trone who spent more than $13 million in a Democratic primary in 2016 and lost. He's running again this year in a neighboring district. Wasserman said Wexton is an early favorite because of her institutional advantage, including endorsements from members of the General Assembly and Democratic Reps. Gerald E. Connolly and A. Donald McEachin. It also should help that Wexton is a former prosecutor from Loudoun, where most of the districts Democrats live, he said. Cook categorizes the race as a toss-up largely because of voters distaste for Trump and their tendency to split their tickets preferring candidates of one party for president and the other for Congress. Most voters went to polls thinking Hillary Clinton would win, he said, referring to Comstocks 6-point win last year. Now they are open to voting for a Democrat as a check on President Trump. Comstock has separated herself from Trump. In May, she voted against a House overhaul of the Affordable Care Act, and she recently joined 18 GOP colleagues in voting against a House budget resolution, which she said would hurt federal workers, many of whom live in her district. [Dan Balz: Think things will be rosy for Democrats in 2018? Not so fast.] Her Republican opponent, Shak Hill, has raised $53,051 and has $32,629 to spend. A patient fills out a form while her blood and saliva are screened for hepatitis C and HIV in the rural town of Spencer, W. Va. Through partnerships, West Virginia Health Right has begun doing mobile screenings alongside harm prevention outreach as hepatitis C cases surge along with opioid abuse. (Philip Scott Andrews for The Washington Post) The nation's opioid epidemic has unleashed a secondary outbreak: the rampant spread of hepatitis C. New cases of the liver disease have nearly tripled nationwide in just a few years, driven largely by the use of needles among drug users in their 20s and 30s, spawning a new generation of hepatitis C patients. Because a treatment that cures the disease costs tens of thousands of dollars, is limited by insurance and Medicaid, and is mostly unavailable to people who are still using illicit drugs, there probably will be financial and public health ramifications for decades to come. Here in West Virginia, which has the nations highest rates of overdose deaths and new hepatitis C and hepatitis B infections, public-health officials are attempting to identify as many new hepatitis carriers as possible and are girding for decades of repercussions. [The drug industrys triumph over the DEA] If we dont cure a significant number of the people who are injecting, in 20 years from now, the hospitals in this part of the world will be flooded with these people with end-stage liver disease, which has no cure, said Judith Feinberg, a professor of behavioral medicine and psychiatry at the West Virginia University School of Medicine. I can see it coming at me like the headlights of a train. Just coming, coming, coming, and Im thinking, Doesnt anybody want to jump out of the way? The number of new confirmed hepatitis C cases nationwide rose from 853 in 2010 to 2,436 in 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control a 15-year high. But tens of thousands more are believed to have contracted the disease without knowing it. Christine Teague takes a sample of blood from a patient to screen for hepatitis C in Spencer, W.Va. (Philip Scott Andrews for The Washington Post/for The Washington Post) According to the CDC, 34,000 people were estimated to have contracted hepatitis C in 2015, a number public health officials believe is low. In Massachusetts, officials estimate 300,000 people have the disease and just half have received a formal diagnosis. Testing for the disease is not widespread, and because its possible to not display any symptoms, hepatitis C often goes undetected for decades until manifesting in severe, life-threatening liver disease. Its the unidentified that scare me, said Rahul Gupta, West Virginias health commissioner. What Im afraid of is that there are people out there not in the medical health care system and theyre spreading the disease. [As opioid overdoses rise, police officers become counselors, doctors and social workers] Across the nation, health providers are seeing a cascade of public-health consequences unleashed by the opioid epidemic beyond the significant rise of overdoses: increases in hepatitis B; sexually transmitted diseases including syphilis and gonorrhea; elevated rates of endocarditis, an infection of the heart seen in people who inject drugs; higher rates of emergency room visits for abscesses; and hospitalizations for soft-tissue infections some that become so severe they require amputations. Rahul Gupta, West Virginias public health commissioner, poses for a portrait in downtown Charleston. (Philip Scott Andrews for The Washington Post) Some places are seeing small increases in HIV, and there is a widespread fear that an outbreak like the one in Austin, Ind., where nearly 200 drug users contracted the disease in 2014 and 2015 because of sharing needles, could happen again. Part of the solution, public health officials believe, is what happened in the wake of Austin: opening syringe exchanges so users can access clean needles. Long controversial, syringe exchanges are becoming more broadly accepted in the wake of the opioid epidemic. In Kentucky, 20 have opened since the state legislature approved them in 2015. In North Carolina, at least 25 have opened since they were legalized last year. Hepatitis C was once associated with baby boomers who contracted the disease before the nations blood supply was screened for it starting in the early 1990s and with urban drug users. About 3.5 million people nationwide have hepatitis C, three-quarters of them baby boomers. Nearly 20,000 people died of the disease in 2015, the majority of them over the age of 55. Now, new carriers tend to be young people who use intravenous drugs. Health providers in an array of locations, from rural Tennessee to suburban Boston to Baltimore, are reporting increases in hepatitis C diagnoses. In West Virginia, the number of new hepatitis C cases is nine times the national average, and Medicaid costs for treating the disease amounted to more than $27 million from 2014 to 2016. Gupta said West Virginia is seeing major increases in syphilis and gonorrhea cases, which he believes are due to drug use. You can have direct consequences of needle injection . . . and consequences of impaired judgment, Gupta said. West Virginia has aggressively tried to track hepatitis B and C cases, expanding testing at the states syringe exchanges, jails and prisons. Gupta said one reason the number of hepatitis cases here is so high is probably due to the fact that the state is aggressively seeking them out. Thousands of people each year stream into West Virginia Health Rights free clinic for clean needles, medication and, staffers hope, a hepatitis C test. About half of the clinics clients have hepatitis C, chief executive Angie Settle said, discovered through a rapid-results test the clinic offers. The clinic, which sends mobile dental units around the state to offer free dental care, has started sending staff along to test people for hepatitis C. William Turley sits on a sofa in one of the exam rooms at West Virginia Health Right. (Philip Scott Andrews for The Washington Post) William Turley was high when he let his friend plunge her used heroin-filled needle into a vein running through his left hand. When they sobered up, she told him she had hepatitis C. He got tested here and it came back positive. He was in such disbelief he asked for a second test, which confirmed the result. I never thought that I would catch it, said Turley, 49. Very few drug users talk about the disease, he said. You hear about AIDS. You never hear about hepatitis C. Turley said he is focused on getting sober so he can be cured. West Virginia Health Right is one of the few places that gives patients the drugs that will help without cost but treatment does come with conditions. William Turley shows where he was injected with a contaminated needle. Turley was infected with hepatitis C through drug use. (Philip Scott Andrews for The Washington Post) Drug companies require patients to be sober to access the medication, Settle said. And many states, including West Virginia, require Medicaid patients to have an advanced form of the disease and be sober before approving treatment. A six-month course of the drugs used to cure hepatitis C can cost upward of $100,000. In Louisiana, Health Secretary Rebekah Gee is considering asking the federal government to intervene to cut the price. A lot of the state Medicaid treatment restricts access, said Laura Fanucchi, an assistant professor at University of Kentucky HealthCare. A lot of physicians dont think thats the best approach because it limits access to the most vulnerable populations. Hepatitis C is particularly worrisome because it is 10 times more contagious than HIV. While HIV can be spread by sharing needles, hepatitis C can be contracted at any point during the injection process, including by using a drug cooker or tourniquet that has another persons blood on it, said Shruti Mehta, deputy chair of the department of epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The disease also is spread through sexual contact, though the rate of transmission is not as high as blood-to-blood contact. Mehta said hepatitis C rates also are spiking among inner-city drug users. She studies a cohort of about 5,000 injection drug users, and about 60 percent of them have contracted hepatitis C. Its a disease of long-term consequences that people dont understand, she said. Officials are increasingly concerned that some of those consequences could manifest themselves for decades. The prevalence of hepatitis C among women who gave birth from 2009 to 2014 increased 89 percent, according to a study by Vanderbilt University and the Tennessee Department of Health. West Virginia has the highest rate of births to infected mothers, with 22.6 per 1,000 live births. The disease can be passed to an infant during birth, and about 6 percent of babies born to infected mothers contract the disease. Stephen Patrick, an assistant professor of pediatrics and health policy at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and a co-author of the study, said there is no treatment for the disease during pregnancy and that babies cannot be tested for hepatitis C until they are 18 months old. Only about 16 percent of infants receive follow-up testing, he said. Hepatitis C is also not a routine test administered to pregnant women. Jeff Christ calls a man who recently tested positive for hepatitis C. (Philip Scott Andrews for The Washington Post) Soon after finding out she was pregnant, Sarah Farrugia went to the doctor, who drew blood and diagnosed her with the disease. Farrugia, 27, of Maine, had injected heroin for about five years. She stopped using drugs after meeting the man who is now her husband and got pregnant a few months later. She was shocked but not surprised because of her past drug use. She was glad to know that there is a cure. But of course theres the other layer of it: What does this mean for my child? she asked. Farrugia gave birth to a healthy baby boy and nursed him for a year, even though doctors warned the baby had a small chance of contracting the disease through breast milk. Farrugia planned to start the drugs used to cure hepatitis C when she was done nursing her son, but she became pregnant again. Her son tested negative for hepatitis C. She will have her daughter, who will turn 1 in December, tested when she is 18 months old. Farrugia wants to start the drug regimen when she is done nursing, noting that her viral load is low and that she feels good about her prognosis. She believes that drug use needs to be less stigmatized and that people need to start talking more about hepatitis. When I would be worried about using someone elses needles, it was because I didnt want to contract HIV or AIDS, she said. I didnt think about other things. NEW JERSEY Charges against Menendez stay, judge rules The judge in the Robert Menendez corruption trial on Monday refused to throw out any of the charges against the Democratic senator from New Jersey in light of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling narrowing the definition of bribery. Federal prosecutors had warned that dismissing the charges would torpedo nearly all other bribery cases and open the door wide to graft. U.S. District Judge William Walls rejected defense lawyers arguments that the allegations against Menendez didnt meet the new definition of bribery contained in the 2016 Supreme Court ruling that reversed the conviction of former Virginia governor Robert McDonnell. In recent months, the McDonnell ruling led judges to throw out the bribery convictions of at least three other public officials, including a former Louisiana congressman. Just days ago, Walls appeared to be leaning toward a ruling that could have gutted the case against Menendez and co-defendant Salomon Melgen. Most of the 18-count indictment against them focuses on bribery. The senator had no comment after the ruling. Menendez, 63, is charged with accepting free flights on a private jet, luxury hotel stays and other gifts from the wealthy Florida eye doctor over a seven-year period. In exchange, prosecutors say, he pressured government officials on Melgens behalf over an $8.9 million Medicare billing dispute and a contract to provide port screening equipment in the Dominican Republic. The most serious charge Menendez and Melgen face, honest services fraud, is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Associated Press ALABAMA Judge blocks inmates execution A federal judge Monday blocked an execution scheduled for an Alabama inmate convicted of killing a police officer two decades ago. U.S. District Judge W. Keith Watkins issued the stay for Torrey Twane McNabb, 40, who was scheduled to die Thursday night. McNabb is one of several inmates challenging Alabamas method of performing lethal injections. Another Alabama inmate set to die earlier this month, Jeffery Lynn Borden, received a stay, and McNabbs execution also should be delayed, the judge ruled. The state attorney generals office will appeal, spokesman Mike Lewis said. McNabb was convicted of killing Montgomery Police Officer Anderson Gordon in 1997. The inmates have challenged the states use of the sedative midazolam at the start of executions, saying it would not reliably render them unconscious before other drugs stopped their lungs and heart. Alabama has executed two inmates this year. Associated Press Military plane makes an emergency landing: A military transport plane on a mountain training mission in Nevada made a safe emergency landing at Reno-Tahoe International Airport after experiencing a problem with its landing gear shortly after takeoff. The U.S. Air Force C-130 with 14 people on board the plane circled the area for more than half an hour to burn off fuel before making an emergency landing about 10:40 a.m. Monday. No one was hurt. Associated Press Eblal Zakzok, an Ohio professor from Syria who is challenging President Trumps travel ban, stands outside his Columbus home. (Andrew Spear/For The Washington Post) He was worried about where his son might be, but he tried not to let it show as he texted his daughter 5,000 miles away in Istanbul. "This is not the first time," he tried to reassure her after learning that his son had gone to visit a friend and had not returned. Eblal Zakzok also had to reassure himself; his son was probably fine, but the anxiety began gnawing at his stomach as he sat safely in the American Midwest. Zakzoks two oldest children were partway through college when the family fled the war in Syria in 2014 finding asylum in the United States but his oldest boy and girl, 18 and 21, were left behind in Turkey. His sons asylum application stalled amid a lengthy vetting process, and his daughter was too old at the time her father was granted asylum to receive the status through him. Traditionally, U.S. immigration proceedings have allowed for other routes to reunite a family in such circumstances. But Zakzok fears that a reunion might slip out of reach. If President Trump's newest travel ban is enforced, the Zakzok family might be permanently torn apart. A federal judge in Hawaii temporarily blocked much of the latest version of the ban Tuesday, one day before it was set to fully take effect. Early Wednesday, a federal judge in Maryland also blocked the ban, after determining that it was just another "inextricable reanimation of the twice-enjoined Muslim ban." Trump talks to reporters Sept. 24 before boarding Air Force One. (Evan Vucci/AP) [Second judge rules against latest travel ban, saying Trumps own words show it was aimed at Muslims] It has been nine months since Trump first rolled out policies that activists and federal judges branded a "Muslim ban," whose aim was to restrict the travel of people from seven Muslim-majority countries, including the Zakzoks' native Syria. In the intervening months, there have been more than 40 lawsuits, dozens of court hearings and three official policy shifts, the most recent of which imposed an indefinite ban on the citizens of six majority-Muslim countries, as well as on North Koreans and some Venezuelan officials. Trump has said the evolving measures are necessary to protect national security and prevent would-be terrorists from entering the United States. In announcing a proclamation last month, Trump described his ban as necessary to "protect the security and interests of the United States and its people." "Making America Safe is my number one priority," Trump wrote last month. "We will not admit those into our country we cannot safely vet." The administration has vowed to appeal the federal court rulings, as it did for previous versions of the ban, paving the way for a continuing court battle that could like a previous version reach the U.S. Supreme Court. Lawyers on both sides say the fight is far from over. Theyve tried to amend each version of it, thinking that will pass legal muster, said Avideh Moussavian, a senior policy attorney at the National Immigration Law Center, noting that the policies all arise from the same flawed baseline. All of these are fruits of the poisonous tree. The administrations policies have shifted over time: A few countries have been removed, others added; the government eliminated a specified exception for non-Muslims; and there was a court battle over who would be considered to have a bona fide connection to the United States refugees, it was determined, would not, whereas an Americans foreign-born grandmother would. Trump has intended his newest policy to be sweeping. Some countries would receive specific modifications, but the revision would ban almost all Syrians, Iranians, Libyans, Somalis, Yemenis, Chadians and North Koreans. The fight over the latest version has unfolded largely behind closed doors. Gone are the dramatic scenes at airports, the swarms of demonstrators and tearful families that came with the early days of the ban. Protests have given way to far less public battles in courtrooms, embassies and consulates against a shifting web of red tape. It is difficult to calculate how many people would be affected, lawyers say. Considering prior visa patterns, it would be tens of thousands. Its much easier to account for someone in an airport who is stuck or turned away than for someone who is told to never show up for a consular appointment at all, Moussavian said. [Latest travel ban will probably affect tens of thousands, and it could short-circuit the court battle] Zakzok is one of those with a pending lawsuit, a case that involves five other plaintiffs, including a Mississippi man whose wife is separated from her sick child, an American, who is receiving medical care in the United States; a New Yorker whose Syrian wife and stepdaughter are stranded in Europe; and a Maryland woman who wants to bring her aging father to live with her family. It was his case, Zakzok v. Trump, that prompted U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang on Wednesday to determine that the third version of the ban, like previous versions, violated the Constitution for its clear intent to discriminate against Muslims. The initial announcement of the Muslim ban, offered repeatedly and explicitly through President Trumps own statements, forcefully and persuasively expressed his purpose in unequivocal terms, Chuang wrote in his 90-page decision, which outlined all of the times Trump has made the intentions of his ban clear in statements and in tweets. The government offered no evidence, even in the form of classified information submitted to the Court, showing an intelligence-based terrorism threat justifying a ban on entire nationalities, Chuang wrote. Omar Jadwat, an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union, which has participated in the litigation, said plaintiffs in his group have terminal illnesses and want to see their relatives for the last time. There are other people who are trying to start their lives with their families whose spouses are overseas. Really basic, fundamental things, Jadwat said. The whole way that our immigration system works and the arrangements that people have made for their lives, which take these laws into account, have, with the stroke of a pen, been upended. Zakzok, 47, born to farmers in a rural hamlet of Aleppo, grew up tending sheep and goats but went on to earn a PhD from a British university. His family fled Syria after regime forces arrested him one day on his way to work at the University of Aleppo and held him captive for two weeks, torturing him. After Zakzoks release, he was invited to the United States to present an engineering paper. He requested asylum. Soon his wife and three youngest children were able to follow. Zakzok was able to secure a teaching position here, at Ohio State University, with the help of a fellowship program for exiled scholars, and his children settled easily into advanced chemistry and biology classes at the local high school. But the vetting of his oldest son dragged on for months. And Zakzok had to wait until he had his green card to apply for an immigrant visa for his daughter, which he did as soon as he was able. Then, Trump was elected after promising on the campaign trail to stop the resettlement of Syrian refugees and limit Muslims access to the country. Zakzok thought some restrictions would be put in place, but, he said, I didnt think there would be a law to prevent me from bringing my daughter. Zakzok has asked that his children not be identified because he fears for their safety. He hopes that the federal court rulings will hold, preserving his ability to bring his children here. But his lawyers have advised that a long battle lies ahead. I want him to know that we are like the American people, Zakzok said of Trump. We like freedom. We share the value of humans, Americans, the free world. We value the safety of our neighbors, of our society. He has nothing to fear from us, from my daughter, my children. This article has been updated. For eight days, Debbie Cooper has been fighting the Adobe fire with buckets while in bedroom slippers. As dawn broke Monday, she was joined by hundreds of firefighters from across the state and the Pacific Northwest. That might not be enough. Her shingle-roof home sits at the narrow entrance to Adobe Canyon, a steep channel for a wildfire still pushing its forest perimeters. Crews have been holding it off, crammed tight in the canyons narrow walls, for several long days. Cooper is grateful, if defiant of their requests to leave the house she moved into only a month ago. But as firetrucks packed into her two-lane street Monday morning, she realized that her time as a holdout is probably up. Now its in the canyon, said Cooper, who is 65 and has lived in this valley with her husband, John, for more than three decades, and if it rips down through there, theyre in trouble. They have told me they will put everything theyve got on this today. Theyll make a stand here. While firefighters have made gains in containing more than a dozen fires in Northern California during the past week, here in the Valley of the Moon, the burn risk is still high. The fires advance from the peaks of Sugar Loaf and Hood mountains has been steady, despite the gentle wind. Members of a search and rescue team and a dog look through the rubble of mobile homes destroyed by a wildfire on Monday in Santa Rosa, Calif. With the winds dying down, fire crews gained ground as they battled the wildfires. (Jae C. Hong/AP) [Ten miles of Californias loveliest countryside, transformed by fire] As the sun rose Monday, exhausted firefighters changed shifts in a thick, ground-level smoke. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection officials organized lines at the edge of the valley floor as the blaze threatened to roar down through windblown canyons. Dozens of homes and several name-brand vineyards Landmark, St. Francis, La Rochelle stand in its path. More than 200,000 acres in a cluster of counties north of San Francisco have burned since fires sparked on a blustery night eight days ago. California officials say 41 people have died and more than 3,500 buildings have burned, most of them houses. There are signs of progress. Sonoma County officials began lifting mandatory evacuation orders Monday for several neighborhoods on the eastern edge of Santa Rosa, where the deadly Tubbs fire blew into the city more than a week ago. The stand being made here since mid-Monday has displayed the tenacity of the firefighters on this blaze and the delicate planning involved in coordinating the air campaign against the flames, an intensive effort involving jumbo jets, helicopters and propeller planes. But the fire's stubborn advance also highlights the conditions working against its containment: hillsides of oak and pine that are dry as tinder, a rugged topography often unnavigable by large teams and trucks, and a shifting wind that will decide the fate of this valley regardless of the resources in place now. Were just trying to prepare these houses as best we can with the limited resources we have, said Brian Gentis, part of a fire crew from eastern Oregon that drove in with two engines last week. Theres just so much to do. Gentis and a dozen others worked up through Adobe Canyon as flames began appearing on the ridgelines above. "Prepping" houses means clearing the branches, leaves and other landscaping from home sites a more deliberate version of routine weekend yard care. Using shovels and picks, the group dug trenches and built dirt berms around the perimeters of homes, Italianate mansions and one-story ranch styles. There are a couple crews up there now, but a bunch are being chased out by the fire, said Gary Whatley, working alongside Gentis at the end of a 24-hour shift. Its really tricky. Along the northern slope of this valley, wisps of smoke from hot spots appear for miles. Most fizzle after a few hours, just flickering worries for firefighters. But during the past 36 hours, those small flare-ups, caused mostly by embers carried from the main blaze miles away, have connected in lines along ridge tops from the grand, chateau-style Ledson Winery east to Adobe Canyon Road. Only a few holdouts remain in the valley to watch the excruciating advance and retreat of the fire one minute a terrifying line of flames 200 feet high flaring above the vineyards, then nothing but a churning column of smoke. Planes, sometimes as many as five within minutes, swoop in just above the tree line to hit the flames with retardant, which leaves a brilliant pink slash across the sky as it falls. The smoke ranges in color, offering evidence of what is burning. There are shades of yellow and orange, whites and grays. As the fire burned high in the valley late Sunday afternoon, the flames burned white, then sent up thick columns of black smoke, the telltale sign that a house or a barn or a warehouse full of wine casks had ignited. Fire crews from Pasadena, Burbank and Glendale Southern California cities with a fire burning in Orange County not far away have been working along the valley walls. Their participation here shows the strain on state firefighting resources. One crew, comprising about two dozen minimum-security inmates from a nearby detention camp, rested between deployments in a roadside field. The voluntary program provides training, $1 a day in pay, and double the credits toward good-behavior early release. Were not as mobile as some of the others, given the trucks were using, said a Cal Fire official supervising the crew, preparing to head out to clear areas between two fires to prevent them from joining. That kind of deployment decision has been a challenging one in recent days for fire officials. While allowing separate fires to unite can amplify their power, it also reduces the overall perimeter that firefighters must carve out to contain the blaze. Along Adobe Canyon Road, the decisions Monday were less strategic and more immediately tactical: how to keep the growing fire from reaching the flats. Battalion leaders spread maps on the ash-covered hood of a red Dodge Durango, plotting how best to get crews into the narrow spaces up the hillside. Trucks returning to the valley from the blaze headed toward tents set up in a pasture-turned-staging area. Sleep awaited in the smoke. "We'll see where they want us," said Ben Sherlock, idling in a Washington state Department of Natural Resources truck, five of his crew in the cab with him. Two teams from Washington state arrived a few days into these fires. Sherlock and the others finished a 24-hour shift early Sunday and slept through the night, preparing as the sun rose Monday for a long day in the canyon. "There's a lot of them up there right now," he said. "It's tight, so they'll get us up when they feel like it's safe to do so." For Cooper and her husband, the day broke with a sense of decisiveness; one way or the other, the fate of their home would likely be determined. Late on the night of Oct. 8, as fire glowed in the valley above the Cooper home, a power line blew down outside their neighbors house. A small fire immediately blazed up, adding to a cascade of embers arcing down from the huge fire above them. It was like a waterfall, Cooper said. I know what hell is. That was hell. She and her husband began dousing hot spots with five-gallon buckets, filled from another neighbors pool. She was still in sleepwear, slippers on her feet. But she darted around her property, stomping out flames as they popped up. The house of the Coopers next door no relation burned to the ground. So did the Lance home across the street, next to the La Rochelle vineyard. Charred here and there, her house survived the night, as the fire rolled back with the wind into the hills. Every day since, firefighters have asked her to leave. She has refused. But on Monday, the smoke-clouded red sun above her and the flames at the head of the valley had Cooper reconsidering. They just came by to ask me again, she said. They also know Ive lost it. Im exhausted. For the five years that Horacio Hernandez and Laura Gomez rented a two-bedroom home in this city's Coffey Park neighborhood, they'd felt reassured by the fact that there was a fire hydrant on their corner and a fire station less than a mile away. When they left their home early Monday with the rest of the neighborhood amid high winds and smoke swirling through the air, they thought it was just a precautionary evacuation. On their way out the door, they grabbed their rental agreement and not much else. Like most of the homes in the neighborhood, theirs is now reduced to debris. Coffey Park was once a tightknit and tightly packed portrait of the American Dream. It offered more-affordable housing in a county where the average home sells for $625,000 and a city where rents hover around $2,000 for a two-bedroom. For Hernandez and Gomez, it was the perfect spot for a couple who couldn't yet afford to buy a home; they had room to barbecue and host larger family celebrations, for $1,575 a month in rent. [Wildfires continue to advance across Northern Calif. as firefighters gain ground] Now the neighborhood resembles a war zone. Burned-out cars sit in driveways. Tubs and fireplaces are overturned, bathed in sooty roof tiles and fallen drywall the ashes of everyday life. The people who once lived here are trying to figure out whats next. Hernandez and Gomez are temporarily staying in an overstuffed house about a mile away Gomezs mothers home. It now has 10 people in it. The couple share a room with one twin bed where Gomez sleeps wrapped in Red Cross blankets. Her husband sleeps on the floor. The room is crowded with boxes of essentials theyve collected from nearby shelters: toiletries, clothing, towels. Gomez, a 31-year-old nonprofit worker, wants to stay at her mothers place for a month or two or three to save up more of a cushion before they rent somewhere new. But Hernandez, a 39-year-old plumber, is eager to move somewhere more lasting. We are going to stay in Santa Rosa, Hernandez said. We are going to try to find a place to live. Over 10 days, the Northern California wildfires have consumed more than 200,000 acres an area larger than the five boroughs of New York City combined. Many of the displaced are staying with relatives, with friends or in shelters. Soon they will be looking for longer-term housing. But where will they go? Santa Rosa was experiencing a housing crunch before the fires blasted through. Vacancy rates were low, and local officials had been trying to fill some of the demand by allowing more "granny" units small homes built in the back yards of larger houses. [Californians wonder why Trump isnt tweeting about the fatal wildfires] Abby and Joshua Damron, in front of what was their fireplace, sift through the wreckage of their home in the Coffey Park neighborhood Santa Rosa, Calif. (Lisa Bonos/The Washington Post) On top of that, a natural disaster has suddenly left thousands of people homeless. Santa Rosa Mayor Chris Coursey said the fires have destroyed 5 percent of the citys housing stock and plenty more beyond the borders. Coursey said he does not know how quickly the city will be able to rebuild, an effort that will depend heavily on federal and state funding. Firefighters are still battling the blazes. Debris will need to be removed. Plans will need to be drawn up. Permits and funding will need to be secured. Builders will need time to build. In the meantime, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is asking that everyone who has been displaced by the fires register with the agency so that it can determine how much housing assistance is needed. The first option is to locate a place thats close to where they lived before. Thats essential, but its not always possible, Victor Inge, a FEMA spokesman, said Saturday outside an assistance center in downtown Santa Rosa. County officials said it is unclear how long the shelters across the North Bay area will remain open. But Shirlee Zane, a member of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors, said they will exist for as long as this crisis occurs, and theyre going to need to stay open beyond that until we can house everybody. Zane, whose district includes areas that were affected by the fires, wants to speed up the building process to get displaced residents situated as quickly as possible. Were going to need a really comprehensive strategy about not only getting people into transitional housing or temporary housing, she said in an interview, but then how are we going to build that permanent housing thats also going to meet the needs of those people in the middle-class neighborhoods that lost their homes and our most vulnerable population, which continues to grow, which is people over the age of 65. Long before the fires, the nonprofit Petaluma People Services Center had been placing seniors in shared homes so that they are not living alone. In the past week, Executive Director Elece Hempel said the nonprofit has received 700 calls from people some from as far away as Houston offering temporary housing to those who are staying in shelters. People are saying: You can stay for two days, or you can stay for a year, Hempel said. She estimated that about 100 people had been placed. [Calif. fires have been devastatingly arbitrary. Some houses stand amid a sea of ash.] Many displaced residents are not entertaining plans to leave the area soon. One of the first things Tony Cohen did after evacuating his home in Mark West Meadows, just north of Santa Rosas city limits, was buy a tent. His home, which he bought for more than $1 million 12 years ago, is gone. But as soon as he is able to get back on the property, he intends to live there, even if he has to sleep in a $3,000 Tuff Shed from Home Depot and shower at a friends place nearby. I love that spot, Cohen said of his property, which is surrounded by hiking trails. I just want to reestablish it as my home as soon as I can, even without a building. Joshua Damron, 35, who had grown up in western Sonoma County, had long dreamed of living in Coffey Park, which he called "the nice, normal-people part of town." Damron had thought he would never be able to own a house in California. But when the economy tanked, he and his wife, Abby, had been saving up, and they bought a three-bedroom home on Mocha Lane for $375,000 in 2014. Since then, home prices in the neighborhood had reached half a million. Its really safe. Its a great place to raise a family, Abby Damron said Thursday while sitting at a picnic table in the park where the couples three sons play once or twice a day. The park is still verdant and cheery, while their house across the street has been reduced to ash and debris. The family of five is staying with Joshuas parents about a mile west of Coffey Park. They plan to come back once they are able. In the meantime, his sons miss the family rituals that used to take place in the house, namely tinkering with their dad in the garage. Daniel, 5, recently asked when they were going to play in the garage again. Joshua didnt know how to answer. When do we get to do those things our family did together? Joshua wondered, adding that some of their family rituals can take place anywhere. We can still do our stories around the dinner table, and we can still read books around the dinner table. We can still go for walks and do our family Bible time together. We can create stability in those areas. It will be a while before their family walks familiar terrain, though. We have to rebuild here. We have to help our neighbors rebuild here, Joshua said, adding that he didnt know how long it would take to rebuild a neighborhood where about 150 to 200 homes were lost. It was a cool neighborhood, he said. It is going to be a cool neighborhood. IRELAND Hurricane Ophelias remnants leave 3 dead The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia slammed into Ireland with wind gusts of up to 80 mph on Monday, killing at least three people, grounding planes, shutting schools and causing widespread power outages. Tens of thousands of homes were without power, and the military was placed on standby. Although Ophelia has been downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone, Irelands National Emergency Coordination Group on Severe Weather warned that the storm remains unprecedented, with serious life-threatening conditions. Wind warnings were in place for Northern Ireland, parts of Wales and western parts of England. About 130 flights were canceled at Dublin Airport, while flights also were grounded at Manchester Airport in England. Both Ryanair and Easy Jet canceled flights at Belfast International Airport. Several flights to British airports were diverted. Associated Press AUSTRALIA Assange is tool of Russia, Clinton says Hillary Clinton has told an Australian state broadcaster that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was a tool of Russia in his release of hacked emails that hurt the U.S. Democratic presidential nominees campaign. Clinton told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. in an interview broadcast Monday that the Australian whistleblower had become a kind of nihilistic opportunist who does the bidding of a dictator, Russian President Vladimir Putin. Assange is a tool of Russian intelligence, and if hes such a . . . martyr of free speech, why doesnt WikiLeaks ever publish anything coming out of Russia? she said. Clinton was complaining about WikiLeaks publication during the 2016 campaign of politically damaging emails from the Democratic National Committee. Assange, holed up in Ecuadors embassy in London, hit back at Clinton, tweeting that she is not a credible person. In the interview, Clinton rejected reporter Sarah Fergusons proposition that Assange was simply performing a journalists role by publishing information and said WikiLeaks is practically a fully owned subsidiary of Russian intelligence. Associated Press ISRAEL Antiaircraft battery in Syria destroyed The Israeli military said it struck and destroyed an antiaircraft battery deep in Syria on Monday after it had opened fire on Israeli jets flying over Lebanon a rare instance of Syrian forces targeting Israeli planes since the civil war began in 2011. The strike came as Russias defense minister was visiting Israel. Moscow is a staunch ally of the Syrian government. Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus, a spokesman for the Israeli military, said Israeli planes were on a routine reconnaissance mission near the Lebanese-Syrian border when they came under fire. They were not hit and returned to base safely. In response, Israel hit a Syrian antiaircraft battery about 30 miles east of Damascus and incapacitated it, Conricus said. Antiaircraft fire has been deployed before against Israeli jets since 2011, but it is rare. Israel has largely stayed out of the fighting in neighboring Syria, but it has carried out dozens of airstrikes on alleged weapons convoys bound for the Hezbollah militia in Lebanon. It has also occasionally carried out limited reprisals along its frontier with Syria in the Golan Heights, in response to spillover from Syrias fighting. The Syrian army denounced Israels Monday strike as a hostile act. Associated Press 7 killed in Egypt's Sinai: Islamist militants staged a two-pronged assault in the largest city in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, lobbing grenades and trading gunfire with guards at an unused Coptic church to distract from a bank robbery across the street. By the time the attack was over, seven people were killed and 17 million Egyptian pounds (about $1 million) was reportedly stolen. A day earlier, militants attacked military checkpoints in a nearby town, killing nine soldiers. 12 dead as boat with Rohingya refugees capsizes: A boat carrying Rohingya Muslims who were fleeing Burma capsized in the Bay of Bengal near a Bangladeshi fishing village, killing 12 people, including six children, police said. Survivors told officials that up to 65 people were on board and that almost half of them were children, police said. Hundreds of thousands of long-persecuted Rohingya have fled Burma since Aug. 25. From news services Columnist Confronted with allegations of serial sexual abuse and rape, Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein's instinct was to lie: "I came of age in the '60s and '70s, when all the rules about behavior and workplaces were different. That was the culture then." No, it wasnt. The different-era defense was also used by those who would excuse fugitive director Roman Polanski's confessed 1977 crime, drugging and having sex with a 13-year-old girl. And those willing to forgive and forget the first 20 or so of Bill Cosby's alleged sexual assaults, which took place during those scarlet decades. Blaming the 1960s and 1970s has become the first refuge of abusive creeps. But those of us who lived through that time can recall yes, perhaps through a slight haze that the culture never approved of the kinds of things Weinstein is accused of doing. That era was about personal liberation, the biggest component of which involved womens empowerment. The sexual revolution gave women options that had been forbidden to them, but it never took away the option of rejecting unwanted advances. And never did the culture give men the moral right to use money and power to coerce sexual favors or the legal right to commit sexual assault. That kind of ugly behavior is as old as time. That it is now more likely to be exposed, and condemned, is largely due to the period of cultural upheaval and change that Weinstein now wants to blame. Not everyone gets it. A word of advice to any prominent figures thinking about commenting on the Weinstein scandal: If you plan on adding a but on the other hand . . . clause, just dont say anything at all. Don't be like Woody Allen, who said that "the whole Harvey Weinstein thing is sad for everybody involved," but then went on to urge caution: "You also don't want it to lead to a witch hunt atmosphere, a Salem atmosphere, where every guy in an office who winks at a woman is suddenly having to call a lawyer to defend himself. That's not right either." Yeeesh. Begin with the sentiment itself, which is insultingly obtuse. Allen apparently thinks there is no conceivable office setting in which winking at a female colleague would be inappropriate. But that's beside the point, since WINKING IS NOT THE ISSUE . Is it possible that Allen does not understand the difference between winking and the offenses Weinstein is accused of and denies which include indecent exposure, sexual assault and rape? Okay, maybe its possible. After all, Allen saw no reason anyone might be grossed out when he betrayed his longtime lover, Mia Farrow, by initiating a sexual relationship with her daughter, who at the time was too young to go into a bar and have a drink. Is there poetic justice in the fact that it was Allen's estranged son, journalist Ronan Farrow, who reported and wrote the New Yorker article revealing the most explosive allegations against Weinstein? Perhaps, but we digress. Most of the reaction to Weinsteins pattern of horrible and allegedly unlawful behavior has been appropriate, if belated. The number of women who accuse him of misconduct including A-list stars such as Angelina Jolie and Gwyneth Paltrow has leapt from an initial handful into dozens. We should know by now, in these cases, that if there are several victims, there are probably many. Did some women tolerate his disgusting advances because they knew he was one of the most powerful men in the movie business and had the power to make, resurrect or end a career? Probably, and they shouldnt have had to. The way Weinstein treated women was apparently an open secret in Hollywood. Worse, however, is the fact that co-workers and corporate officers at Miramax and the Weinstein Co. apparently knew all about his proclivities. Not only did they fail to stop him, they enabled him to continue. In some cases, Weinsteins assistants are accused of making his targets feel comfortable with the idea of meeting him in hotel rooms then abandoning them knowing what they would face. Some victims were paid substantial settlements, which people who worked with Weinstein, including board members, must have known about. Weinstein was effectively granted impunity because he brought in so much money and so many Oscars. Thats another old story; complicity and silence werent invented in the 60s and 70s, either. And by the way, you don't have to be "the father of daughters" to speak out. I am the father of sons, and I'm angry and appalled. Read more from Eugene Robinson's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook. You can also join him Tuesdays at 1 p.m. for a live Q&A. Columnist In 2004, I wrote a column about Bill O'Reilly's alleged sexual harassment of Andrea Mackris, one of his producers. Her suit charged that O'Reilly pressured her to have telephone sex with him. Mackris had taped some of their conversations, including O'Reilly's threat that he would destroy any woman who retaliated against him. A transcript of that call was conveniently available on the Internet. The consequence was hardly immediate: Thirteen years later , O'Reilly was fired. I exhume O'Reilly and, if I may, Fox News in general as a rebuttal to the argument that something awfully pernicious and immoral about liberalism accounts for the Harvey Weinstein scandal. We are told over and over about how his alleged behavior was an open secret in show business but that the liberal press, in odious partnership with liberal politicians, looked the other way. Some of that is true the bit about Weinstein's behavior being an open secret. The man was known as a brute, possessed of a hair-trigger temper, shielded from the consequences of his behavior not by the press, but by a phalanx of lawyers and the purchased silence of his victims. Without an accuser or witness willing to talk on the record, the hands of journalists were tied. Ken Auletta, who profiled Weinstein in 2002 for the New Yorker, was consistently thwarted by an inability to get Weinstein's alleged victims to say what had happened. But if Weinsteins behavior was an open secret, then what about OReillys? He settled with Mackris for $9 million. Other women also agreed to settlements. In the end, he and 21st Century Fox paid out $13 million to settle sexual harassment suits. The predations of Roger Ailes, the late chairman of Fox News, cost the network even more not to mention Ailes his own job. The list of his victims was long and distinguished Gretchen Carlson and Megyn Kelly, to name just two and here, too, was yet another open secret. Ailes's behavior was not only long-standing TV producer Shelley Ross wrote that Ailes had made unwanted sexual advances to her back in 1981 but it had been reported in a 2014 book by Gabriel Sherman, then of New York Magazine. The consequence? Ailes got raise after raise and, ultimately, a golden parachute worth about $40 million. Rupert Murdoch, the proprietor of Fox News and much else, never had to account for the frat house he was running on Manhattan's Sixth Avenue and Ailes reportedly prepped Donald Trump for last year's presidential debates. Trump did not object to associating with such a man. As we all know, besides wanting lower taxes, the two apparently had another thing in common. The Democrats clearly do not have Trumps sang-froid. They rushed to either return Weinsteins money he has been a steady Democratic Party contributor or donate the filthy lucre to charity. But why? Weinsteins money was legitimately earned and, while it is not unconnected to the man himself, it is unconnected to what his accusers say he did and it was accepted in good faith. The rush by Democrats to rid themselves of this supposedly tainted money is in itself an ex post facto confession of guilt by association and plays into the argument of conservatives that something is rotten about liberalism. After Rep. Tim Murphy (R-Pa.), a vehement antiabortion member of Congress, was revealed to have demanded that his mistress terminate a pregnancy, op-eds popped up informing us that Murphy was a typical conservative hypocrite. Some other conservatives were named, but of course we would not know the names of those who were ideologically consistent maybe the vast majority. Still, the urge to slander an entire class of people by using a single person is apparently so powerful it cannot be resisted. In Weinsteins case, he has been used not only to accuse the press of inexcusable sloth but also to represent men in general, or maybe the man who lurks inside every man of power. Harvey Weinstein does not personify American liberalism any more than Bill O'Reilly personifies American conservatism. If anything, they personify the truism that sexual misbehavior is nonideological as Republican as Warren Harding, who carried on an affair with Nan Britton in the White House, or as Democratic as Bill Clinton, who did the same with Monica Lewinsky. Weinstein is not a typical liberal nor a typical man. He's a typical beast. Leave it at that. Read more from Richard Cohen's archive. Regarding the Oct. 13 news article "U.S. to exit UNESCO, alleging bias against Israel": Stating anti-Israel bias is simplistic and disingenuous. On UNESCOs board sit some of the worst misogynist dictatorships and human rights violators, including Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Qatar and Sudan. They continue to hijack the United Nations stated mandate, ignore their neighbors ills and cover up the brutal destruction of ancient artifacts due to Islamic ideology, war and greed. UNESCO remained silent when Hamas bulldozed a World Heritage site in Gaza to build a terrorist training camp. Silent when Muslim authorities in Jerusalem bulldozed and removed layers of archaeological finds hidden underneath the Temple Mount dating to the 8th and 7th centuries B.C., which includes ancient Hebrew writings. Israel treasures all archaeological finds regardless of their Jewish, Christian or Muslim history. But between 2009 and 2014, UNESCO adopted 46 resolutions against Israel, one against Syria and zero against any other country in the world. To add more insult, UNESCO continues to use this forum to adopt resolutions to strip away Jewish connection to the land of Judea/Samaria and Israel. Why should the United States finance this nonsense? Carol Borker, Livingston, N.J. MULTIPLE, GLARING government breakdowns are documented in the revealing investigation of the opioid-overdose epidemic by The Post and CBS's "60 Minutes." The report exposed weakening federal enforcement of drug distribution; corrosive industry lobbying that crippled that enforcement; and a dysfunctional Congress and White House at a time when a debilitating scourge swept the country. At the core of the story is the Drug Enforcement Administration, charged with making sure that prescription narcotics do not spill from the legitimate supply chain into the underworld of drug abuse. A DEA unit, the Office of Diversion Control, is supposed to keep pills from being siphoned off by what one former official calls drug dealers in lab coats. The investigation revealed how this vital DEA enforcement mission was badly undercut in a bill supported by the drug companies that passed Congress and was signed by President Barack Obama last year without sufficient scrutiny. The breakdown of enforcement described by reporters Scott Higham and Lenny Bernstein is appalling. They report that a DEA effort was undertaken in the mid-2000s to target drug distribution companies that were shipping unusually large volumes of opioids. For example, one midsize distributor had shipped 20 million doses to pharmacies in West Virginia over five years; 11 million doses went to one county alone with a population of 25,000 people. Some pharmacies in Florida were nothing more than illicit drug dens, with streams of customers arriving in vans from Appalachia. "Back home, each 30-pill bottle of oxycodone was worth $900," The Post reports. By going after the distributors, the DEA hoped to stanch this deadly trade. The DEA brought at least 17 enforcement cases against 13 drug distributors and one manufacturer under a hard-charging head of the Office of Diversion Control, Joseph T. Rannazzisi. Then the rules changed. The DEA originally could freeze drug shipments that posed an "imminent danger" to the community, giving the agency broad authority to act. In 2014, the industry launched an effort to slow enforcement by changing the standard. The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Tom Marino (R-Pa.) and aided by former DEA officials who went through the revolving door to help the drug companies. Some DEA officials pushed back; one wrote the bill "is fixing a problem that doesn't need fixing." At one point, Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. spoke out against the legislation, but over time, and after Mr. Holder left office, it sailed through Congress by unanimous consent and was signed by the president. The new law requires the DEA to show that a company's actions represent "a substantial likelihood of an imminent threat," a much higher threshold. Predictably, enforcement actions plummeted. Not a single immediate suspension order has targeted a distributor or manufacturer since late 2015 at a time when overdose deaths are skyrocketing. All this adds up to disgraceful conduct. Congress must put teeth back in DEA enforcement. President Trump suggested Monday he will reexamine Mr. Marino's nomination as drug czar. He should withdraw it, and Mr. Marino instead should be held to account for kneecapping the DEA's opioid enforcement effort. Columnist At the Family Research Councils recent Values Voter Summit, the religious right effectively declared its conversion to Trumpism. The president was received as a hero. Stephen K. Bannon and Sebastian Gorka both fired from the White House, in part, for their extremism set the tone and agenda. "There is a time and season for everything," said Bannon. "And right now, it's a season for war against a GOP establishment." A time to live and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to uproot. A time to mourn and a time to embrace angry ethnonationalism and racial demagoguery. Yes, a time to mourn. There is no group in the United States less attached to its own ideals or more eager for its own exploitation than religious conservatives. Forget Augustine and Aquinas, Wilberforce and Shaftesbury. For many years, leaders of the religious right exactly conformed Christian social teaching to the contours of Fox News evening programming. Now, according to Bannon, economic nationalism is the centerpiece of value voters. I had thought the centerpiece was a vision of human dignity rooted in faith. But never mind. Evidently the Christian approach to social justice is miraculously identical to 1930s Republican protectionism, isolationism and nativism. Do religious right leaders have any clue how foolish they appear? Rather than confidently and persistently representing a set of distinctive beliefs, they pant and beg to be a part of someone elses movement. In this case, it is a movement that takes advantage of racial and ethnic divisions and dehumanizes Muslims, migrants and refugees. A movement that has cultivated ties to alt-right leaders and flirted with white identity politics. A movement that will eventually soil and discredit all who are associated with it. [Trumps incompetence will not save us from his malevolence] The religious right is making itself a pitiful appendage to this squalid agenda. If Christian conservatives are loyal enough, Bannon promises that they can be the folks who saved the Judeo-Christian West. All that is required is to abandon the best of the Judeo-Christian tradition: a belief in the inherent value and dignity of every life. This belief in human dignity leads to a certain moral and political logic. It means that the primary mission of Christians in public life is not to secure their own interests or to defend their own identity. It is to seek a society in which every person can flourish. This is the definition of the common good which is not truly common unless it includes the suffering and powerless. The common good is a neglected topic in our politics. It is not identical to market forces, or to legal rules that maximize individual autonomy. It is the result of prudent public and private choices that strengthen community the seedbed of human flourishing and ensure the weak are valued and protected. The idea of the common good emerged from religious sources, but provides a broad, political common ground. If there is a single reason that Republican health-care reform has failed, it is because party leaders could not make a credible case that the common good was being served. Even if individual elements of the various plans were rational, they did not add up to a more just, generous and inclusive society. Who would now identify conservative Christian political engagement with the pursuit of the common good? Rather, the religious right is an interest group seeking preference and advancement from a strongman and rewarding him with loyal acceptance of his priorities. The prophets have become clients. The priests have become acolytes. It is possible for Christian conservatives to support the appointment of conservative judges without becoming a tribe of apologists and sycophants. It is possible to selectively endorse elements of the administrations agenda without becoming Bannons foot soldiers. There is more at stake here than bad politics. When Christians ally their faith with bias and exclusion, they are influencing how the public views Christianity itself. They are associating the teachings of Jesus Christ a globalist when it came to the Great Commission with ethnonationalist ideology. This should be a sobering prospect for any Christian. But few seem sobered. Instead, the faithful give standing ovations to the purveyors of division and prejudice. When anyone or anything takes priority over the faith, there is a good, strong religious word for it: idolatry. And the word is unavoidable, as religious conservatives carry their golden calf into Bannons battles. Read more from Michael Gerson's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook . Columnist Its about time somebody gives Donald Trump the credit he deserves. Even if that person is Donald Trump. Were doing a lot of great things, the president said at the start of a Cabinet meeting Monday. Further, he said, we are getting tremendous accolades for what were doing. Whats more, the Justice Department is doing a fantastic job, while the economy is growing phenomenally, except for the drag from those hurricanes the handling of which, Trump would again say Monday, earns him an A-plus grade. He also boasted about his yet-to-be-passed (or even proposed) tax cuts the largest tax cuts in the history of our country. But the highest praise of all came for his Cabinet or, rather, his own acumen in choosing this truly exceptional group of people seated at the table around him. There are those that are saying its one of the finest group of people ever assembled as a candidate as a Cabinet, he said. (Trumps candidate-Cabinet mix-up followed his Friday mishap when he praised parents who sacrifice for the furniture, rather than future, of their children.) This is a tremendous amount of talent, Trump continued. We have just gotten really, really, great people. Im very proud of them. And Im very proud of Trump for recognizing the greatness of his Cabinet. But he is being modest. This isnt just one of the finest Cabinets. There has never been a Cabinet like this before and there probably will never be one like it in the furniture. Sure, George Washington sat around the Cabinet table with John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Henry Knox and Edmund Randolph. Abraham Lincoln won the Civil War with William Seward, Salmon Chase and Edwin Stanton. Franklin Roosevelt beat the Depression and the Nazis with Henry Morgenthau, Harold Ickes and Henry Stimson. President Trump boards Air Force One on Monday. (Carolyn Kaster/AP) But Washington didnt have a professional-wrestling executive in his Cabinet, nor an education secretary foresighted enough to warn the country about the danger posed to schools by bears. He didnt even have an education secretary! Lincoln didnt think to hire a Cabinet secretary who proposed abolishing the very Cabinet agency he runs, as Trump has found in Energy Secretary Rick Perry. As Lincoln would have said: Oops! FDR never had on his Cabinet someone hed compared to a child molester, as Trump has with Ben Carson, his secretary of housing and urban development. No matter how you measure it billionaires, white men, oddballs this Cabinet is extraordinary. Alexander Hamiltons entire treasury probably didnt have the amount of money EPA chief Scott Pruitt has spent on a soundproof phone booth, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has spent on her security detail, and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and his wife spent taking a government jet to Kentucky, where they viewed the eclipse, or tried to spend, requesting a government plane for their honeymoon. They are so good that Trump doesnt need to be modest about it. John F. Kennedy may have brought Camelot to Washington, but he thought it necessary to acknowledge the genius of his predecessors, declaring a White House gathering of Nobel laureates the most extraordinary collection of talent except for when Thomas Jefferson dined alone. Even Jefferson, however, would have to tip his tricorn to the superior accomplishments of this Cabinet. Never before has a Cabinet been this obsequious. Recall Trumps first Cabinet meeting? Mr. President, what an incredible honor. I cant thank you enough. It is just the greatest privilege of my life. 1 of 83 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad Scenes from Trumps second six months in office View Photos A look at the second half of the presidents first year in the White House. Caption A look at the second half of the presidents first year in the White House. Jonathan Ernst Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue. Never has a Cabinet incurred so many probes and reprimands in so little time. U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley earned a reprimand for improper political activity, while Interior Secretary Ryan Zinkes attempted intimidation of lawmakers has come under review, as have actions by Pruitt and Mnuchin. Never has a Cabinet endured more humiliation with more aplomb. Two members (Reince Priebus and frequent-flier Tom Price) have already been sacked. Trump publicly eviscerated Attorney General Jeff Sessions and contradicted Mnuchin and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis. CIA Director Mike Pompeo has routinely endured Trumps criticism of his workers, and Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao has watched Trump savage her husband (Trumps friend) Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, recently disemboweled by Trump in tweets and, after the moron comment became public, challenged by Trump to an IQ test, sat at Trumps right arm on Monday. Like all other Cabinet members he remained silent, seen but not heard, as the president did all the talking in front of the cameras. Tillerson, clinging to his job by his fingertips, has been so badly undermined by Trump that Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) says hes been castrated. Tillerson denies hes a eunuch. I checked, he said Sunday on CNN. Im fully intact. George Washingtons Cabinet was pretty good. But this? Best. Cabinet. Ever. Twitter: @Milbank Read more from Dana Milbank's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook. Columnist President Trump campaigned on helping the little guy. His latest tax proposal, he says, is about helping the middle guy. "It's a middle-class bill," Trump promised an audience of truckers last week. Other administration officials and House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) have also claimed that their primary objective in reconfiguring the tax code is to help the middle class, not the wealthy. Unfortunately, they seem to have gotten things backward. In a preliminary analysis, the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center estimated that 80 percent of the proposed tax cuts would go to the top 1 percent of earners over the next decade. Meanwhile a quarter of households in the middle quintile would see their tax bills rise. This should be no surprise, when you consider whats in the Republican framework. It cuts the top personal income tax rate; eliminates estate taxes, which currently befall only estates worth at least $5.5 million; kills the alternative minimum tax; and slashes rates on pass-through income. The White House has lately even made the absurd claim that its enormous, unfunded corporate rate cuts are primarily about helping the middle class. On Monday, the president's Council of Economic Advisers released a report claiming that corporate tax cuts would boost the average household's income by at least $4,000. This estimate relies on a series of assumptions that seem dubious at best, given other research (including one recently deleted paper by Treasury's own staff economists). All this made me wonder: What would a tax plan that actually prioritizes the middle class look like? Not much like the one Republican leadership cooked up, but it could still include elements appealing to both parties. A real middle-class tax plan would likely include a large expansion of the earned income tax credit. For decades the EITC has supplemented lower-income peoples pay through a tax refund. Its pro-work, because it increases the payoff from holding down a job. It also meaningfully improves working families living standards. Given these selling points, the EITC has historically enjoyed support from both Republicans and Democrats. In recent years, both Ryan and President Barack Obama proposed making it more generous to workers who don't have custody of a minor child. Curiously, though, the current GOP framework says not a peep about this powerful tool. Fortunately, there's an (admittedly expensive) off-the-shelf policy available: a Democratic plan to expand EITC eligibility up the wage ladder, to households making as much as $76,000 depending on family size. The legislation would also roughly double the maximum size of the EITC for working families and almost sextuple it for childless workers. These expansions are designed to help middle-income workers "reclaim" the pay they would have received had there not been decades of wage stagnation, the House bill's primary sponsor, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), told me in a recent interview. Khanna also observed that expanding the EITC is a much more direct way to raise middle-class families earnings than some Rube-Goldberg-like corporate tax-code machinations. Trump is saying hes going to cut the corporate tax rate in order to raise your wages, Khanna said. Im saying: Lets just raise your wages. We could also help middle-income families by expanding the child tax credit. The GOP tax plan does include an expansion of this credit, to be sure. But what theyve announced so far doesnt do much for the middle class. That's because the expansion appears to be non-refundable (meaning it primarily helps higher-income filers), and it mostly serves to offset the framework's elimination of personal exemptions, explains Tax Policy Center researcher Elaine Maag. Other more generous expansions would be possible though, including a version pushed by Republican Sens. Marco Rubio (Fla.) and Mike Lee (Utah). What about the corporate tax code? There are some changes that could arguably boost growth and productivity, some of whose benefits could (ahem) trickle down to workers. Cutting rates and eliminating distortionary loopholes could be helpful which is why Democrats previously said theyd support such a plan. Only, though, if the plan were revenue neutral. A revenue-negative plan most likely hurts growth in the long run, as Obamas former chief economist Jason Furman points out. More important, someone eventually has to cover the cost of unfunded tax cuts through some future combination of higher taxes and lower spending. Lower spending almost certainly would disparately hurt lower- and middle-income families. Which is why the best thing elected officials can do to help the middle class would be to make sure any promised benefits are adequately funded. Which would mean raising rather than cutting tax revenue. Something tells me thats not what Republicans have in mind here. THE SUPREME COURT last week dismissed a suit against the second iteration of President Trump's ban on travel, which targeted six majority-Muslim countries. The ruling signals a quiet end to a potentially explosive case for now. The legal fight against the travel ban grinds on, with multiple challenges to the newest version of this nonsensical policy working their way through the courts. By the ban's own terms, its provisions barring entry and immigration into the United States by citizens of certain countries expired in late September. Mr. Trump signed a revised proclamation the third version of the ban so far to take its place. While the travel ban's challengers argued that the Supreme Court could still hear their case even after the new order, the court chose instead to dismiss the suit on the grounds that the second ban was no longer in place. The justices also threw out the lower court's ruling that the ban unconstitutionally discriminated against Muslims, though Justice Sonia Sotomayor would have kept the decision in place. The high courts ruling didnt touch a second case challenging the bans prohibition on refugee entry into the United States. But when that provision of the second order expires in late October, its likely that the justices will take the same approach. This means that the groups fighting Mr. Trumps order will have to begin their battle against the third ban before the district court judges who heard their original complaints, instead of folding their challenge to the new order into the lawsuits already before the Supreme Court. In fact, theyre doing so now. And several new suits have been filed as well. They have a harder argument to make. In part because of the Supreme Courts ruling, the new ban is on stronger legal footing. Its the result at least on paper of interagency review, rather than the presidents whims. It includes two non-Muslim countries and one country with a significant Christian population. Despite the judiciarys aggression in striking down past iterations of the travel ban, judges may be more hesitant this time to rule against the president, who typically enjoys broad leeway in immigration cases. This does not make the travel ban any wiser or less cruel. The latest version may be less obviously discriminatory against Muslims, but that doesnt mean that limiting travel from a jumble of countries including a close counterterrorism partner of the United States will have any benefit to Americans safety. Many rulings against the earlier travel bans moved out well ahead from settled law to swipe at Mr. Trump. On the third round of this legal battle, the lower courts have a chance to consider the presidents policy with cooler heads. But whether the Trump administration can successfully defend the revised travel ban in court is a separate question from whether the ban is good policy. That much is clear: It isnt. White House legislative director Marc Short, seen here in a file photo, is on the short list to lead the Heritage Foundation. (Andrew Harnik/AP) The Heritage Foundation has narrowed its search for a new president down to a shortlist of finalists, a group that includes Todd Ricketts, a co-owner of the Chicago Cubs, and Marc Short, a senior Trump White House official, according to three people familiar with the discussions. In addition to Ricketts and Short, Heritages board of trustees also has expressed interest in Lisa B. Nelson, the chief executive of the American Legislative Exchange Council, and David Trulio, a vice president at Lockheed Martin, the people said on the condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations. The conservative think tanks trustees, however, remain torn over their decision. Kay Coles James a Heritage board member who served as the director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management under President George W. Bush and is close to Heritage founder Edwin J. Feulner has been mentioned by several associates as someone who could serve in a temporary capacity if the board cannot settle on a candidate. The groups clout in Washington was underscored by President Trumps appearance Tuesday night at a gathering of its Presidents Club at a Washington hotel. Heritage's board includes many wealthy right-wing figures, including Steve Forbes, Rebekah A. Mercer and Thomas A. Saunders III. The top job at the influential conservative outpost has been open since May, when Jim DeMint, the Republican firebrand and former South Carolina senator, was pushed out, although Fuelner has been serving as the interim president. The search process is still in flux, and it is not clear whether the leading candidates under consideration have formally been contacted by the Heritage board or would accept the position. For Ricketts a longtime Republican activist whose father, Joe, is the founder of TD Ameritrade and brother is Pete Ricketts, the current Nebraska governor the posting would offer him and his family even greater influence in helping to shape the direction of the Republican Party and the conservative movement. Trump selected Ricketts to serve as deputy commerce secretary, but in April he withdrew his nomination from consideration, citing an inability to untangle his financial holdings to the satisfaction of the Office of Government Ethics. Ricketts's father helped finance Future45, a super PAC that spent lavishly for Trump in the final weeks of the presidential campaign, giving the group at least $1 million through the end of September, Federal Election Commission filings show. Joe Ricketts and his wife, Marlene, also contributed nearly $344,000 to support Trump's campaign and the Republican Party. The Rickettses' financial support for Trump was a dramatic reversal from the primaries, when Joe and Marlene Ricketts gave more than $5.5 million to Our Principles PAC, a super PAC that ran a slew of hard-hitting ads against Trump. Short, the director of legislative affairs at the White House, has strong conservative credentials, previously leading Freedom Partners, the political operation for billionaire brothers Charles and David Koch, and before that working for Vice President Pence when Pence was a rising star on the right during his days in the U.S. House. It is unclear whether Short has expressed interest in the job, and he has not met with the Heritage board. But if selected and if he were to accept he would represent yet another high-profile departure from Trumps administration, which has already faced steady turnover and shake-ups. Nelson, Ricketts, Short and Trulio did not respond to requests for comment, and a spokeswoman for Heritage also declined to weigh in on the specific finalists. "The Heritage Foundation Board of Trustees continues to search for a new president who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to continuing Heritage's legacy of rigorous research and fighting for the conservative principles at our core," Heritage spokeswoman Sarah Mills said in an email statement. "The board has identified and is continuing to interview a handful of well-qualified finalists for the position. When we have something to announce, we'll announce it." The talks have at times stalled this summer and fall as Heritage trustees have debated the future of the think tank. Those ongoing deliberations have led several people close to the process to say Fuelner may end up asking James to take over as interim president. Coles James is not well-known in conservative circles nationally but is respected within Heritage and by its donors. Coles James did not respond to requests for comment. Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.), the chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus and a Trump ally, was another person considered in earlier talks inside Heritage, although Meadows made clear to several people close to the think tank that he preferred to remain in Congress, a person familiar with the discussions said. J.D. Vance, the best-selling author of "Hillbilly Elegy," a memoir about his upbringing in Appalachia, was also floated early in the process as a possible high-profile, younger recruit. He has met in recent months with Stephen K. Bannon, Trump's former chief strategist who has returned to his post running Breitbart News, and Bannon has privately expressed a desire to see an ally installed at Heritage. Matea Gold contributed to this report. Senate Democrats on Tuesday pressed President Trumps pick for an appellate court in Washington about his role as a White House lawyer in a series of legal controversies and about whether he could make judicial decisions independent of the man who nominated him. In nine months as a deputy White House counsel, Gregory G. Katsas told senators considering his nomination that he advised the Trump administration on the travel ban on residents of certain majority-Muslim countries, ending protections for young undocumented immigrants and the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity. Katsas, a former high-level Justice Department official and law clerk to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, sought to assure the Senate Judiciary Committee that he would recuse himself from any cases involving his work as a government lawyer. The role of a judge, he said, is to apply the law neutrally and fairly without regard to the views of the president behind a nomination. The hearing Tuesday comes as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is intensifying efforts to install conservative jurists on the federal bench, as political pressures mount on the Republican Party to show more concrete achievements after months of struggling to govern. With no major legislative accomplishments despite controlling both chambers of Congress and the White House, Republican leaders have begun to worry about a backlash from its base in next years midterms. [New volatility seizes tense fight for control of the Republican Party] If confirmed by the Senate, Katsas, 53, would join what is often referred to as the nations second-highest court in part because the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit often rules on high-profile political cases involving executive power and government regulations. In the nearly two-hour hearing, Katsas acknowledged giving "legal advice on a few discreet questions" arising from special counsel Robert S. Mueller III's investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election. He declined, when asked by Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), to provide any details because of concerns, he said, about undermining Mueller's probe and violating attorney-client confidences. Republicans, including Sens. Orrin G. Hatch (Utah) and Ted Cruz (Tex.), praised Katsas for his intellect and integrity, and for representing clients without regard to political party. McConnell has faced pressure from conservative activists to ramp up his efforts on judicial nominations. Lately, he has been advocating against observing a long-standing Senate tradition of allowing senators a chance to block judicial nominees who would have jurisdiction over their states. The blue slips have become a focal point on Capitol Hill in recent days. That process doesnt exist, however, for nominees to the D.C. Circuit like Katsas, a Virginia resident, because the District has no senators of its own. It is not typical for a president to reach into his own White House Counsels Office to fill vacancies on a federal appellate bench in part because of questions inevitably raised about the nominees legal advice. President George W. Bushs nomination of current D.C. Circuit Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh was stalled for three years in part because of Kavanaughs work as a top White House aide. When asked Tuesday by Sen. Christopher A. Coons (D-Del.) about Trumps pardon of former Maricopa County, Ariz., sheriff Joe Arpaio, Katsas responded, I couldnt publicly criticize my client in order to advance my personal interests today. Nan Aron of the Alliance for Justice, a critic of Trumps judicial nominees, said Katsass testimony did nothing to reassure senators or the American people that as a federal judge he would act as an independent check on the out-of-control schemes of the executive branch. Katsas has the support of many attorneys in Washingtons legal establishment, including lawyers who worked with him during his stint at the Justice Department during the administration of George W. Bush. Carrie Severino, chief counsel of the Judicial Crisis Network, called Katsas seasoned and well respected and called for a speedy confirmation. [Trump taps White House legal adviser to serve on high-profile D.C. Circuit] Katsas has argued more than 75 appeals, three at the Supreme Court, including in one of the challenges to the Affordable Care Act. A longtime member of the conservative Federalist Society, Katsas would replace another conservative retired judge, Janice Rogers Brown. He would join a bench with four judges nominated by President Barack Obama and three others nominated by Democratic presidents. Even though Katsas repeatedly refused to detail the substance of his White House legal advice, he did provide some insight into the challenge of working for Trump in the early months. The president, he said in response to a question from Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.), was extremely high energy, he had made a series of campaign promises and he demands results from people who work for him. Trump participates in radio interviews in the Indian Treaty Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington on Oct. 17. (Martin H. Simon/Pool/Epa-Efe/Rex/Shutterstock) President Trump promised retribution against Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) for his opposition to several GOP health-care plans and his comments implicitly criticizing Trumps views and leadership Monday night. "People have to be careful because at some point, I fight back," Trump said in an interview Tuesday with WMAL, a D.C. radio station. Im being very nice. Im being very, very nice. But at some point, I fight back, and it wont be pretty, Trump said. Trumps comments came as the White House girded for a preliminary vote on its budget resolution. Whether McCain would vote yes was unclear at the time of Trumps interview. We need some votes from some of the Republicans. For some reason, they werent there on health care. They should have been. We thought we had it. John McCain voted no, which was a shocker, Trump said. [The night John McCain killed the GOPs health-care fight] McCain offered a thinly veiled critique of Trumps presidency Monday night in Philadelphia, where he received the Liberty Medal from the nonpartisan National Constitution Center. To refuse the obligations of international leadership and our duty to remain the last best hope of Earth for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past, McCain said in his remarks. We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil. . . . We have a moral obligation to continue in our just cause, and we would bring more than shame on ourselves if we dont, he said. In response to Trumps latest comments, he told reporters on Capitol Hill: I have faced many tough adversaries in my life. [Trump admonishes McCain over opposition to latest health-care push] Trump has lashed out at McCain several times in recent months, most notably after the senator broke with Republicans and opposed two proposals to undermine the Affordable Care Act. John McCain never had any intention of voting for this Bill, which his Governor loves, Trump tweeted on Sept. 23. He campaigned on Repeal & Replace. Let Arizona down! The president appears eager to intensify his long-standing feud with McCain, who he infamously criticized in 2015 for being captured and held as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. Hes not a war hero, Trump said at the Family Leadership Summit in Ames, Iowa. He was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who werent captured. McCain, a Navy pilot, spent about 5 years as a captive of the North Vietnamese after his plane was shot down in October 1967. He was repeatedly tortured and, for more than two years, held in solitary confinement. Read more at PowerPost Members of the National Organization for Women hold a rally in New York on Oct. 13, 2017, to urge Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. to reopen a criminal investigation against Harvey Weinstein. (Brendan Mcdermid/Reuters) The wave of revelations and revulsion over Harvey Weinstein has gone global. As A-list actresses level claims of sexual misconduct at the now-disgraced Hollywood mogul, ordinary women everywhere engaged in a collective outpouring of their stories of assaults and sexual harassment inspired by an online campaign made famous by Alyssa Milano. And, as the #MeToo ranks swelled, there is also a sense of bitterness about how sexism remains rooted in many parts of the world including places seen as progressive in womens rights. This has been part of our world womens world since time immemorial, said the British actress Emma Thompson when asked by the BBC about the Weinstein scandal. Indeed, the statistics compiled by the Stop Street Harassment campaign in the United States make for sober reading. The group highlights a 2014 study by YouGov that ranked the safety of transit systems for women in 16 cities around the world. Bogota was the most unsafe city in the survey, while Mexico City was the worst for verbal and physical harassment with 64 percent of women respondents saying they had been groped or harassed on public transit. Within hours of Milanos #MeToo call, the hashtag was trending worldwide with stories pouring in from Calgary to Cairo, from Paris to Perth. The two-word hashtag has been tweeted over half a million times and has been featured in more than 12 million posts on Facebook. On Arab social media sites, women jumped into the conversation using the hashtag #AnaKaman, the Arabic translation of me too. A 63-year-old Australian woman tweeted that harassment was present "all through my early working life in the 70's & 80's" while working at the Department of Defense in Sydney. Looking back it was horrendous, she wrote. [Chinas media says women not harassed in Chinese culture. Women beg to differ.] A parish priest in rural England tweeted where she faced harassment: "Paris when I was 16 heading to visit my pen friend. Norfolk when I was 22 being expected to 'earn' some bar work. Others I can't say." "In Calgary traveling with a client on business . . . In Vancouver applying for one job, working at another . . . Amazingly #JustHowItWas #MeToo," tweeted a Canadian author with her list. A self-described German-Finnish world traveler tweeted: "And then there was that old man who placed his sweaty hands on me in an overfilled metro in Rome acting as if it's not him." Tailors in Pakistan who always need to measure your chest and hips at least 7 times, wrote a press officer in Lahore. You always know when the hand lingers too long. "When I was in India, Egypt, Mexico, Belgium, and pretty much everywhere I've lived," wrote a Mexican living in Brussels. Even in countries considered to be progressive, women were sharing stories of abuse. "5 years ago at Copenhagen Airport I was sexually assaulted by a security guard," tweeted a British comedian and actress. [#MeToo is everywhere. But will it make a difference?] In France where President Emmanuel Macron said he would revoke Weinsteins Legion dHonneur award a separate but similar campaign took root with thousands taking to social media with the hashtag #balancetonporc, or squeal on your pig. Sandra Muller, a French journalist, kicked off the #balancetonporc campaign when she encouraged people to name and shame those responsible for sexual harassment. She named her own former boss, whom she said commented on her breasts and told her that she was my type of woman. Stories began flooding in, like that of a Paris-based radio journalist who tweeted that an editor of a major radio station once grabbed her by the throat and told her she would have sex with him "whether you want it or not." She said she filed a complaint but that nothing happened. On Monday, Marlene Schiappa, Frances gender equality minister, said that legislators will debate proposals for cracking down on sexual violence and harassment, including fines for wolf whistling and other sexually tinged comments on the street. This isnt the first time that women and some men have turned to social media en masse to highlight examples of harassment and abuse. Five years ago, Laura Bates, a British writer and campaigner, founded #Everydaysexism, an online project that catalogues everyday, street-level sexism. She said in an interview that the recent campaigns following the Weinstein allegations highlight how enormously widespread the problem is and how too often women are ignored or silenced. Women are often told that the problem doesnt exist, sexism is the thing of the past, were equal now, those things only happened in the 70s, you must be overreacting, you got the wrong end of the stick, he probably meant it as a compliment, you just need to smile darling, she said. Many of the patterns seen in stories that have emerged in recent days stories of abuse at home, in the workplace, at schools, in public spaces are not new, Bates said. But she said that more women are speaking out. I dont think weve seen great strides in the last five years with the problem shifting. What we are seeing is thanks to the incredible courage of women and girls all over the world speaking out about their experiences is the increased tendencies for survivors to be able to talk about whats happened to them, she said. She added that she hoped that the outpouring of grief and frustration will help shift the conversation from this point, where we are constantly trying to raise awareness that the problem even exists to the next phase, where we are having a debate about how to fix it. Heba Habib in Stockholm contributed to this report. Read more: Today's coverage from Post correspondents around the world Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news Smoke rises from a police compound in Gardez, Afghanistan, that was attacked by Taliban militants on Oct. 17, 2017. (Stringer) A string of Taliban attacks on Afghan security units killed more than 70 people, officials said Tuesday, in another show of force by the militants amid a renewed effort seeking possible peace talks. The attacks, which began late Monday and ranked among the deadliest of the year, underscored the Talibans resilience and ability to strike heavily protected sites such as military bases. They also raised questions about any potential Taliban commitment to open dialogue with the Afghan government and its allies after 16 years of conflict. In Oman, U.S. officials met with delegations from China, Pakistan and Afghanistan to try to revive peace talks with the Taliban. Previous attempts to open talks with the organization have stalled, most recently last year after Taliban leader Akhtar Mohammad Mansour was killed in a U.S. drone strike. [A win in Afghanistan includes peace talks with the Taliban, say U.S. officials in Kabul] On Tuesday, Taliban forces stormed a police compound south of Kabul, killing 41 people, including a local police chief, in a gun battle that lasted hours, officials said. The commando-style raid in Gardez in Paktia province, about 80 miles from Kabul, also injured about 100 people when two car bombs exploded outside the compound, which serves as a command center for local police and a main training site for police recruits. Taliban fighters then stormed the site, taking over towers and firing indiscriminately, causing casualties among police and civilians who happened to be there on government business, officials said. An Interior Ministry spokesman, Najib Danesh, said local police chief Toryalai Abadani was among those killed. Earlier, a similar attack in neighboring Ghazni province killed 25 government security officers and five civilians. A suicide bomber drove a vehicle into a government compound, after which gunmen entered the site. At least 48 people were also wounded, Gen. Murad Ali Murad, a deputy interior minister, told reporters. Murad said a total of 74 people were killed in the spate of Taliban violence that included smaller attacks. Pakistan which recently won some favor from the Trump administration after the rescue of American Caitlan Coleman and her family, held by the Taliban-linked Haqqani network for five years quickly condemned the attack in Gardez. Officials in Pakistan are seeking to ease strained relations with Afghanistan, partly in hopes of gaining a better seat in discussions over economic investments in the region that include a stronger U.S. presence, increased trade with India and a nearly $1 trillion Chinese Silk Road initiative that, using land and sea routes, would connect Chinas commercial markets to Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Pakistan reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all forms and manifestations and reaffirms its commitment for continued efforts and cooperation for eliminating this menace, the countrys Foreign Ministry said in a statement. [The Taliban is sowing terror in remote, new areas of Afghanistan] The attacks followed several attempted suicide bombings in Kabul during recent weeks. The Afghan intelligence agency said Tuesday that it recently thwarted a Taliban plot to attack several spots in the city, including military facilities, army convoys and crowded areas. The agency arrested two men Monday who were traveling in a car full of explosives. Over the weekend, a driver of a truck carrying three tons of explosives was also arrested. Taliban fighters and other militants, including Islamic State extremists, have struck bases used by security forces in the past. In April, Taliban insurgents dressed in army uniforms surged into an army facility in the northern Balkh province, killing dozens of soldiers. Also in Paktia province, the United States carried out a drone strike Monday, killing 20 extremists in the Jaji Maidan district, a NATO spokesman said Tuesday. Shaiq Hussein in Islamabad contributed to this report. Read more: The West is indifferent to Afghanistan and Iraqs world of terror A much-feared Taliban offshoot returns from the dead Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news The leader of ANO party, Andrej Babis, arrives at an election campaign rally in Prague on Sept. 28. (David W Cerny/Reuters) The man poised to lead the Czech Republic following elections this week is a polarizing billionaire who vows to drain the swamp of this capital city's politics, run his country like a business and keep out Muslim immigrants. He casts himself as the straight-talking voice of the common man and derives support from the countrys forgotten communities. He makes a sport of attacking the European Union and says NATOs mission is outdated. He pledges to put his own nations interests above all else but is dogged by investigations into alleged shady dealings that threaten to cripple his political career. Andrej Babis is so similar to the U.S. president in profile and outlook that he feels compelled to offer at least one key distinction. I was never bankrupt, the 63-year-old says mischievously in an interview at his featureless office park on the outskirts of this gloriously gargoyle-and-spire-pierced city. There are other differences, too. But the overall picture is clear: Europe, a land where President Trump is widely reviled, could soon have a man who bears an uncanny resemblance leading a nation at the continents heart. People here may not like Trump, said Jiri Pehe, the director of New York Universitys Prague campus. But they like Trumpian politics as performed by Mr. Babis. [Trump in Czech: The countrys likely next prime minister sounds a lot like the U.S. president] Babis wont be alone, either. If elections on Friday and Saturday vault him to the prime ministers office, as polls suggest they probably will, he could plant a flag farther west for a strongman vision of government that is testing young democracies to the east and in the process straining European unity. Hes no democrat, said Pehe, a former adviser to Vaclav Havel, the Czech anti-communist dissident turned president. The danger here is that the Czech Republic could slide to the European periphery, along with Hungary and Poland. [Nazi! Stasi!: In German state where the far right won big, cozy political culture quickly turned toxic] Austria, too, is shifting in that direction, after an election Sunday that put in line for chancellor a 31-year-old conservative who has mimicked many of the policies of the far-right Freedom Party and is expected to make the Euroskeptic party his partner in government. The Czech Republic's own turn toward the east is, in many respects, surprising. Of the nations that emerged from behind the Iron Curtain nearly three decades ago, the Czech Republic has fared the best by numerous measures. With a strong manufacturing base, it has the lowest unemployment rate in the E.U., a budget surplus and life satisfaction ratings that would be the envy of the Italians or the Spanish. Unlike Poland, it didn't suffer a mass exodus of its young workers. Unlike Hungary, it didn't have hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers crossing its territory at the height of the 2015 refugee crisis. But the Czech Republic does have persistently low wages, along with a political class that is notoriously beset by corruption. It also has older residents who yearn for the simpler days of their communist youth, when the all-powerful state protected them. The combination has made the nation of 10 million fertile ground for populism. And Babis, the countrys second-wealthiest man, has seized the opportunity. The businessman, who initially earned his wealth under still-mysterious circumstances during the first years after communisms collapse, makes an unlikely champion of the little guy. Born in modern-day Slovakia as the son of a diplomat, he spent part of his youth in Switzerland and speaks fluent German, French and English. As an adult, he lived for years in Morocco. His vast business empire includes agricultural and chemical firms, Michelin-starred restaurants and a significant portion of the Czech national media. He was a political novice when, in 2012, he founded his own party, Action of Dissatisfied Citizens, which is known by its Czech acronym ANO, meaning yes. The party, running on a pro-business and anti-political-establishment platform, stunned the nation a year later when it took second place in parliamentary elections. Babis became finance minister in a coalition government, and served until May, when he was forced out amid a swirl of accusations over alleged tax evasion and other improprieties all of which he denies. But the ouster didnt weaken him. If anything, it may have bolstered his carefully cultivated reputation as a political outsider whom the insiders will do anything to ruin. People are saying that Im a danger to democracy in this country, which of course is ridiculous, he said, his gray suit neatly pressed, his gray hair and beard trimmed tight. Im a danger to this corrupt system. Its a message that he repeats relentlessly on the trail, where he signs copies of his slickly produced campaign book and gives out his cellphone number to people who say they could use his help battling the turgid Czech bureaucracy. Hes a normal guy, said Zdena Krskova, a 69-year-old who was shopping for dinner one day at an open-air market in a working-class neighborhood of north Prague. Plus, he has enough money, so he doesnt need to steal from the people. Babiss support is concentrated outside Prague, in smaller cities and towns that havent shared the same bump in prosperity as the countrys tourist-thronged capital. It also comes from older voters who are looking to the billionaire to cut through the messy logistics of democratic politics and use a firm hand to restore a simpler, bygone time, said Daniel Prokop, head of political polling for the research firm Median. His voters are authoritarian-oriented, Prokop said. If you ask whether its better to have a strong leader or democratic decision-making, his people say strong leader. And theres a reason they gravitate to Babis. Hes used to getting his way, said Jan Machacek, who runs a think tank funded by Babiss firms. Compromise is not in his genes. Machacek, who was a dissident during communist times, said the billionaires political rise reflects widespread disappointment among Czech voters who had high hopes for a democratic system they thought could solve the nations ills. Instead, he said, they got weak parties and corrupt politicians. The consequence of such disillusionment, he said, could be a lot worse than Mr. Babis. Unlike Trump, Machacek said, Babis is no showboat. He is a demanding businessman but doesnt deliberately sow chaos. Yet Babis has shown a willingness to pick fights with powerful European leaders, particularly on the issue of refugees. [After the election, Germanys democracy faces its hardest test since 1949] In the interview, Babis mocked programs under which E.U. members are supposed to share the burden of taking in asylum seekers, disparaged the notion of a multicultural society and, referring to the German chancellor, blamed the 2015 refugee crisis on the stupidity of Madame Merkel. Such comments could mean more trouble for the E.U., which is grappling with how to handle populist governments in Hungary and Poland. In both countries, the leaders are well practiced at demonizing migrants and flouting the will of Brussels for domestic gain. Babis seems to be employing a similar approach at least during the campaign. Hes operating with fear. Promoting danger the E.U. and migrants, said Ivan Gabal, an independent member of Parliament who is aligned with the center-right Christian Democrats. Thats the whole strategy. In the Czech Republic where anti-E.U. and anti-migrant sentiment both run high it seems to be a winning one. But its not unusual here, and Babis came to it relatively late. Even if Babiss party comes out on top this week, he will need to find coalition partners. He will also have to contend with multiple investigations into his business practices. And he will need to work with Europe. All of which suggests that, like Trump, Babis may shift course on some of his campaign promises once he confronts the reality of governing. And unlike Trump, Gabal said, Babis is capable of admitting when hes wrong. When you put data in front of him and say, Youre not right. The situation is different, hell look at it. And accept it, said Gabal, whose party has been in coalition with Babiss and may be once again post-election. Hes not stupid. Katerina Santurova contributed to this report. Read more: Young and to the left? Not in Germany, where the Merkel generation prefers an old hand. Merkels stumble in the German election has big implications for Europe The rise of Germanys far right leaves Merkel stuck with the Jamaican option Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news This Aug. 17, 2015, photo shows a general view of the northern Iraqi town of Sinjar, west of the city of Mosul. (Safin Hamed/AFP/Getty Images) Iraqi forces seized several northern towns from Kurdish fighters on Tuesday, as the federal government in Baghdad expanded its swift campaign to reassert authority in areas that have been disputed for nearly two decades. The campaign, which began over the weekend with Iraqi forces moving to control the oil-rich city of Kirkuk, has grown to include areas that Kurds had claimed after the U.S. invasion in 2003. The operation has significantly shrunk Kurdish-controlled territory and raised doubts about the future of the region's political leadership, which has long agitated for independence. In his first public comments since the loss of Kirkuk, the president of Iraqi Kurdistan, Masoud Barzani, urged Kurds to remain united and suggested his political rivals were to blame for the crisis. He has come under intense pressure since moving ahead with a bid for independence that appears to have backfired. Baghdad's push into the contested territories comes after a Kurdish referendum on independence last month that was opposed by the central government, the region's neighbors and the United States. The dispute has undermined the U.S. goal of a coordinated military campaign against the Islamic State militant group that would translate into political cooperation between the two key American allies. [The long, winding history of American dealings with Iraqs Kurds] Last year to the day, Kurdish and Iraqi forces launched a battle to reclaim Mosul from the Islamic State after a historic agreement to fight in tandem. That military cooperation has been replaced in recent days by the threat of the two sides turning their guns on each other though Tuesday's push by Iraqi forces appeared to avoid armed conflict as Kurdish fighters pulled back of their own accord. Barzani said the withdrawal of the Kurdish peshmerga forces on Tuesday from disputed territories, which he blamed on a unilateral decision by some of his political rivals, meant that negotiations with Baghdad over troop distribution in the region would now be based on where Kurdish forces were stationed before the Mosul operation began last year. Many of the areas ceded on Tuesday had been in Kurdish hands long before that battle was launched. According to officials in the towns of Sinjar, Makhmur, Bashiqa, Rabia and in the Mosul dam area, peshmerga forces with the ruling party of the Kurdistan Regional Government withdrew from their posts as Iraqi forces approached. A spokesman for the peshmerga did not respond to requests for comment. Militia forces affiliated with the Iraqi government seized control of Sinjar, near the border with Syria, early Tuesday. A force of local Yazidis, part of Iraqs popular mobilization movement of militias, took control of the town, residents and fighters said. A few hours later, Baghdad-allied Shiite militia forces entered, they added. Iraqi forces also announced on Tuesday the retaking of the oil fields of Bai Hassan and Avana near Kirkuk, potentially depriving the Kurdish region of its main source of revenue. Baghdad has accused the Kurds of illegally exporting oil. In a triumphant news conference two years ago after Kurdish forces took Sinjar from Islamic State militants, Barzani vowed no flag other than the Kurdish one would fly over the town. But the Iraqi flag went up in Sinjar on Tuesday for the first time since 2003, residents said. Sheikh Khalaf Bahri, a Yazidi religious leader, said the situation was calm, although residents were staying indoors. Its too early for them to know if they are safe, he said. We hope that this will be resolved soon, and we hope that the Yazidi people will not be subject to any attacks. Elias Sinjari, a resident, said the peshmerga forces withdrew in the night, except for those originally from the town. They were replaced by a Baghdad-backed Yazidi militia known as the Lalish Force. I dont care who holds our city, whether its peshmerga or Iraqis. What we care about is living in peace and to be protected, he said by phone. Everybody claims they care about Sinjar when, in fact, no one did anything for Sinjar. We are just a card they use when they need and then can throw away. Since retaking Sinjar two years ago, Barzani has tried to assert control over a wide swath of territory bordering the Kurdish region and stamp out the influence of Baghdad and rival Kurdish groups. While many Yazidis consider themselves ethnically Kurdish, not all do. Some accuse Barzani, whose peshmerga fighters guarded the area before the Islamic States conquest, of abandoning them in 2014. When the peshmerga withdrew, the Islamic State slaughtered thousands of Yazidi men and captured thousands of Yazidi women to hold as sex slaves. Many Sinjar residents view the arrival of the new forces, particularly Shiite militias from a different part of the country, as an uncomfortable reminder of that trauma. Unfortunately, again, the forces that were expected to protect the Yazidis left the Yazidis alone without firing a single bullet, said Haider Shesho, a local Yazidi commander. He said Yazidi leaders were trying to negotiate for the forces from outside the region to leave the Town Center. We have no problem with the Yazidi force, he said. We would like international intervention. The Yazidis have suffered a lot. Shwan reported from Irbil, Iraq. Mustafa Salim contributed to this report. Read more: New battle in Iraq gives Iran the upper hand Iraqis seize military base, oil field from Kurdish forces near contested Kirkuk Kurdish bid for independence from Iraq emerges as regional flash point Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday defended the results of regional elections, accusing the United States of fanning domestic opposition and dismissing claims of dirty campaign tactics. Our people have sent a message to [President] Trump, his allies, and the local right wing, Maduro said in a lengthy official news conference, his first since Sundays elections when his socialists won the governor posts in at least 17 of Venezuelas 23 states. He said the U.S. criticism is strengthening his base. Venezuela's opposition is deeply divided over the outcome of the vote after opinion polls had suggested a massive government defeat. Some opposition leaders have suggested fraud, refusing to recognize the results and calling for an independent audit. Others have recognized the defeat, attributing it to the abstention of disappointed and disillusioned opposition supporters. Luis Almagro, head of Organization of American States and a top Maduro critic, has slammed the opposition for even participating in the elections. Its clear that any political force that accepts going to an election without guarantee becomes an essential instrument of eventual fraud, Almagro said in a video statement published Monday on Twitter. He added, You cant recognize elections in a country where theres no guarantee for the efficient exercise of democracy. The outcome has appeared to strengthen Maduro, who is under intense international pressure to enact democratic policy changes. Following a July vote creating a super-congress loyal to Maduro, all branches of government are now effectively under executive control. Trump has described Venezuela as a dictatorship, accelerated sanctions and said he has not ruled out military action. Critics have blamed the opposition defeat on underhanded government tactics, including changing polling stations at the last minute and, in some instances, allegedly deploying pro-government thugs to attack opposition voters. Maduro pushed back against those charges Tuesday, insisting the election process had been fair. The world must know that the electoral process was impeccable, incredible, Maduro said. The opposition said these elections were like a referendum against me? Here it is we won it with 54 percent of the vote. You were wrong, once again. In the run-up to the vote, state TV repeatedly promoted pro-government candidates while ignoring or belittling opposition politicians. But Maduro denied that the government had an advantage during the campaign, saying that dissenting candidates were able to travel as freely across their states as those supporting the government. Maduro also counterclaimed that the opposition had sought to sabotage the vote in some states, including by cutting electricity lines near polling stations. He said social media outlets including Instagram and Facebook had barred his government from paying to promote its political advertising. Maduro suggested he was gearing up for a new war on social media, saying: We have a surprise for next week. . . . We have a right to fight against unfair social media. He offered to meet with opposition leaders to discuss their proposals for changing the electoral system. However, opposition politicians have refused to engage in a national dialogue with the government until it has improved its record on human rights and democracy. Though Maduro lashed out at the United States, he appeared to also reach out to Trump. Trump, my president, Maduro said, Youre making a mistake. Venezuela is free and democratic. Trump, I am not a dictator. And I think the more you threaten us, the more our popularity grows because the people here are anti-imperialist. Maduro, however, said he remained open to dialogue with the White House. He issued an invitation to one of his fiercest critics, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), to come to Caracas and walk through the streets with him to show you how youve been played. On Monday, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert condemned Sundays vote for a lack of free and fair elections. We will work with members of the international community and bring full weight of American economic and diplomatic power to bear in support of the Venezuelan people as they seek to restore democracy, she said in a statement. Faiola reported from Miami. Read more Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news Syrian forces liberated Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a senior commander said, in a major defeat for the collapsing extremist group that had proclaimed the city to be the capital of its caliphate. Oct. 17, 2017 Syrian Democratic Forces fighters ride atop of military vehicles as they celebrate victory in Raqqa, Syria. Erik De Castro/Reuters U.S.-backed forces in Syria claimed Tuesday that they had full control of the Islamic State's onetime capital of Raqqa, heralding an end to the militants' presence in their most symbolically important stronghold and raising new questions about the United States' future role in Syria. Mustafa Abdi, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, said that military operations had halted and that members of the joint Kurdish-Arab force were clearing the city of explosive devices and hunting for sleeper cells. The U.S. military said a formal victory announcement will come after SDF forces are sure that no pockets of Islamic State resistance remain in the city, but the SDF portrayed the battle for Raqqa as over. There is an air of jubilation in the city, Abdi said. People are overjoyed that they are finally rid of this scourge. Kurdish and Arab fighters took to the streets to celebrate the end of the battle they have fought for four months, climbing onto vehicles and parading around the deserted, destroyed city, according to photographs posted on social media. One showed the offensives commander, Rojda Felat, waving a large yellow-and-red SDF flag in Naim Square, where the Islamic State carried out its beheadings. By the time the battle was over, Raqqa had lost all strategic significance to the group that once had used the city to showcase its brutality and plot attacks against the West. The fall of the Iraqi city of Mosul in July and the loss of large areas of territory in eastern Syria to Syrian government forces leave the militants in control of only one sizable stretch of territory, spanning the Iraqi-Syrian border. [ISIS is near defeat in Iraq. Now comes the hard part.] But the capture of Raqqa by the SDF, backed by U.S. airstrikes and American advisers on the ground, nonetheless marks a milestone in the U.S.-led war against the Islamic State. In a briefing to reporters in Washington, a U.S. military spokesman, Col. Ryan Dillon, called it momentous. He said that the Islamic State has now lost 87 percent of the territory it once controlled and that 6,500 fighters remain, out of tens of thousands at the peak of the groups prowess. The victory also intensifies growing questions about what comes next. The remaining Islamic State strongholds in Syria lie to the south in the province of Deir al-Zour, where the Syrian government and its Iranian-backed and Russian allies are making fast progress. The U.S. military will leave it up to the SDF to decide whether it wants to continue to advance into the area, Dillon said. Perhaps more importantly, the Trump administration has not yet indicated whether it is prepared to stay on in northeastern Syria to provide protection for the fledgling ministate being forged by Syria's Kurds. The experience over the past two days of the Kurds in neighboring Iraq may embolden the Syrian government to challenge the Syrian Kurdish enclave once the Islamic State is vanquished, just as the Iraqi government has moved to dislodge Kurdish forces from the oil-rich city of Kirkuk and other areas they controlled. Syrian government officials have spoken on several occasions about their determination to regain control over all of the territory they lost to the rebellion against President Bashar al- Assad, including the area controlled by the Kurds. What would be disastrous for Syrian Kurds is a rapid U.S. drawdown in Syria. It would take away their major foreign patron, said Nicholas A. Heras of the Center for a New American Security. 1 of 19 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad Photos from the scene as U.S.-backed Syrian forces claim victory in Raqqa from the Islamic State View Photos Syrian forces liberated Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a senior commander said, in a major defeat for the collapsing extremist group that had proclaimed the city to be the capital of its ?caliphate.? Caption Syrian forces liberated Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a senior commander said, in a major defeat for the collapsing extremist group that had proclaimed the city to be the capital of its ?caliphate.? Erik De Castro Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue. [ISIS has been a catastrophe for Sunnis in Iraq and Syria] A civilian council comprising Arabs and Kurds is waiting in the wings to take over governance of Raqqa, under the auspices of the Kurdish-led administration running northeastern Syria. But the international community has not committed funds for reconstruction of the devastated city, and the absence of a clear U.S. policy for northeastern Syria risks undermining the gains, cautioned Hassan Hassan of the Washington-based Tahrir Institute. No one trusts the Americans, not even the Kurds, he said. To defeat extremism after destroying areas through the necessity of war, you have to deal with the consequences, not just drop bombs and leave because you have an aversion to war. The offensive to capture the city began in June, with the SDF advancing on the ground as U.S.-led coalition airstrikes pummeled the militants. As was the case in Mosul, victory over the militants has come at a tremendous price. Much of the city now lies in ruins, its residents scattered in displacement camps across the country. At least 1,000 civilians are said to have died, according to estimates by monitoring groups, most of them in the relentless airstrikes. More than 270,000 people fled their homes during the battle, according to the United Nations, and many will find they do not have homes to go back to. Besieged and severely weakened, dozens of militants had launched a final stand from inside Raqqas main hospital and stadium. But the end of the battle was hastened by a controversial deal brokered by local officials under which local fighters were offered the chance to escape prosecution, if they had not committed crimes, by surrendering to the SDF. Dillon said 350 fighters had surrendered in recent days, including some foreign fighters. They are being screened by the SDF to figure out whether they had participated in killings, he said. Raqqa was the first provincial capital to fully fall from government control when it was captured in March 2013 by moderate and extremist groups including the al-Qaeda-linked Jabhat al-Nusra, then operating as the Syrian wing of the Iraqi-based Islamic State. Heba Habib in Stockholm, Zakaria Zakaria and Erin Cunningham in Istanbul, and Alex Horton in Washington contributed to this report. Read more: ISIS is near defeat in Iraq. Now comes the hard part. Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news Former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona, who survived a shooting in 2011, raises her fist on the House steps early this month after calling for action on gun-safety legislation. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP) One of the country's leading gun-control groups changed its name Tuesday from Americans for Responsible Solutions to Giffords, the name of the former Arizona congresswoman who was shot in the head in 2011 and founded the group two years later after 20 Connecticut first-graders were killed. Gun-control advocates said the name change is part of a larger effort to reframe the gun debate in the wake of the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas. By focusing on former Democratic congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords as a symbol of courage, they are hoping to draw in more people to fight for stronger firearms laws. It will be a long, hard haul, but Im optimistic, Giffords said in an interview with her husband, Mark Kelly, from their home in Tucson. It is about the courage of single individuals, but also the courage of members of Congress and state legislators to stand up to the gun lobby and focus on this like they never have before, said Kelly, a former astronaut and co-founder of the group. If we dont have the courage to talk about this . . . were going to have another Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, another shooting like we saw in Vegas. Kelly traveled to Las Vegas last week and met with the families of two women with injuries similar to those suffered by his wife. These two young women have serious traumatic brain injuries and a long road ahead of them, Kelly said. And Ive been there before. Their lives have been completely changed forever. They are going through something very similar to what Gabby and I went through. I wanted to let them know to count on me if they need any advice. Its a sad, sad situation. Kelly and Giffords, both gun owners, released a video Tuesday that they made with former president Barack Obama, Sen. Patrick J. Toomey (R-Pa.) and retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal, a former U.S. Army general who commanded the Joint Special Operations Command for five years. "People say we can never take the guns out of society completely," McChrystal says on the video. "Well, I don't think many people are calling for that. I think what we're calling for is the kinds of things that bring sanity back." After every mass shooting, gun-control groups have urged lawmakers to pass stronger background checks and tighten other gun laws. Gun rights advocates resist, nothing happens in Congress and the same pattern repeats itself after the next event. [Why mass shootings rarely change the paralyzed politics of guns] Kelly and Giffords, both gun owners, said that cycle can be broken, if only incrementally at first. They pointed out that after the Las Vegas shooting, members of Congress, including Republicans, called for legislation to restrict or prohibit bump stocks. Stephen Paddock, firing from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel, had used bump stocks to accelerate the gunfire from his rifles, killing 58 people and injuring more than 500 attending a music festival on the Strip below. To me, that is counter to the argument that a lot of them make all the time, Kelly said. Their argument often is, Legislation doesnt matter because criminals do not follow the law. They at least left the door open for Congress to act on regulating a device that turns a semiautomatic weapon into a fully automatic weapon. [Why bump stocks used in Las Vegas shooting are legal] Four days after the shooting, the National Rifle Association unexpectedly joined the effort, releasing a statement saying, The NRA believes that devices designed to allow semiautomatic rifles to function like fully automatic rifles should be subject to additional regulations. The bump-stock issue, however, is already at a standstill. House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) and many other House Republicans last week backed away from congressional action to ban the devices, saying the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) should regulate or ban bump stocks by decree. But, in a letter to Congress, current and former ATF agents said it is Congress that should take action. They said that under the law, attaching the device to a gun does not make it a machine gun, so ATF cannot regulate it. [NRA support for restricting bump stocks reflects impact of Las Vegas massacre] "The law is very clear, and it does not currently allow ATF to regulate such accessories," Michael R. Bouchard, former ATF assistant director and now president of the ATF Association, wrote in the letter, which was obtained by The Washington Post. Kelly and Giffords have an uphill battle. The NRA spent more than $30 million supporting Donald Trumps presidential campaign. In recent months, the Trump administration has been easing gun regulations. It blocked, for example, the Social Security Administration from reporting mentally impaired recipients to a national background-check database, reversing an Obama administration action. The NRA declined to comment on the rebranding of the Giffords group. [The Trump administration has already been rolling back gun regulations] Even before the Las Vegas shooting, the Giffords group had fought against legislation in Congress to make it easier to buy gun silencers and to carry concealed weapons across state lines. Giffords has raised about $15 million a year and traveled to dozens of states, playing a role in the passage of many of the 210 new gun laws enacted in 45 states and the District of Columbia. Her group has also merged with California's Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. Arkadi Gerney, an advocate for stronger gun laws who worked for then-New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the Center for American Progress, said it is fitting to put Giffords and her story at the center of the fight against the gun lobby. "There's been a growing powerful movement to overcome the NRA," Gerney said. "It's two steps forward and one step backward. But, there's a lot of determination. Gabby Giffords is both a symbol and actuality of that courage and determination." Read more: House Republicans shy away from action on bump stocks in hopes ATF deals with it U.S. prosecutors have charged two Chinese nationals who sold fentanyl to American customers over the Internet in a massive international conspiracy case, the Justice Department announced Tuesday. The case is unique, the department said, because the men are the first Chinese-based fentanyl manufacturers and distributors to be slapped with a label reserved for those who have control of the most prolific international drug-trafficking and money-laundering organizations. [Fentanyl linked to thousands of urban overdose deaths in the U.S.] Prosecutors identified the men charged in the case as Xiaobing Yan, 40, and Jian Zhang, 38. Yan, the Justice Department alleged, operated websites selling fentanyl directly to U.S. customers and also ran at least two chemical plants in China that were capable of producing tons of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues. The department said that Zhang similarly ran an enterprise that made fentanyl in at least four labs in China and that he advertised and sold fentanyl over the Internet. At a news conference held to announce the charges, Deputy Attorney General Rod J. Rosenstein said the cases mark a major milestone in our battle to stop deadly fentanyl from entering the United States. The men were labeled consolidated priority organization targets and are the first Chinese-based manufacturers to be given the designation. It is unclear whether they could ever be brought to the United States to face charges. Rosenstein said that China has no extradition treaty with the United States but that U.S. authorities would share the evidence in the case with their Chinese counterparts and are optimistic that the Chinese would take action. Rosenstein said he was in China two weeks ago to meet with Chinas minister of public security about fentanyl and other issues. They are, in fact, helping us, but we need them to do more, he said. Federal authorities have long warned of the dangers of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that often contributes to overdoses and is sometimes added to heroin and cocaine. The substance is so dangerous, authorities have said, that it has sickened emergency responders merely handling the drug. Rosenstein said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that more than 20,000 Americans were killed by fentanyl and fentanyl analogues in 2016. Investigators think nearly all of it and its components originate in China, he said. The cases against Yan and Zhang originated domestically. In Yans case, Rosenstein said, a 2013 traffic stop in Mississippi helped uncover a drug ring selling bath salts, and investigators working that case identified Yan as a distributor of several illegal drugs. His illicit work, Rosenstein alleged, spanned at least six years and included monitoring legislation and law enforcement activities in the United States and China to try to evade prosecution. Fentanyls chemical structure, Rosenstein said, can be modified to create analogues that are inside the bounds of U.S. and Chinese law. Federal agents identified more than 100 distributors of synthetic opioids in Yans network, Rosenstein said. Investigators were tipped to Zhang, he said, as they investigated the 2015 death of an 18-year-old who had overdosed on fentanyl in North Dakota. Tracing the source of the substance that killed the teenager took those working the case through Oregon, Canada and eventually to Zhang in China, Rosenstein said. Authorities found that Zhang had shipped thousands of packages of fentanyl and other drugs to the United States since January 2013, Rosenstein said. Charges against him included conduct resulting in the deaths of four people from New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota and Oregon in 2014 and 2015, prosecutors said. Prosecutors said that Zhang and Yan were charged with conspiracy to distribute drugs and related counts and that 21 people have been indicted on drug charges as part of the investigation. If convicted, Yan would face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison; Zhang would face life in prison, prosecutors said. The Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) 2017 kicked off yesterday at Grand Hyatt Macau with secretary general Pansy Ho saying it was necessary for Macau to develop its own brands in order to give tourists a reason to keep coming back to the city. Now in its sixth year, and continuing to gather ministerial officials, leaders of global corporations, experts and scholars from around the world, the homegrown GTEF is perhaps the most high-profile event in the city for discussing issues concerning the global tourism sector. The Forum Chairman of GTEF and former MSAR chief executive, Edmund Ho, addressed the opening ceremony yesterday by praising the development of the event over the past few years. Hosted in Macau for six consecutive years, GTEF has established itself as a prominent annual international tourism event, he said. After years of dedicated effort, GTEF has gained extensive international attention and high-level acknowledgment and support from the Central Government. When we started [GTEF] six years ago, the objective was to create for Macau its own Macau- branded event, said Pansy Ho, secretary general of GTEF and managing director of Shun Tak Holdings, separately, on the sidelines of the event. One might say that Macau is the most successful [development of a] tourism destination in the past decade, she continued. However, although we have been successful in bringing all of these [hospitality and gaming] brands to Macau, they do not belong to Macau. They are hotel brands, and they have properties in different parts of the world. Ho said the success lay in creating homegrown events and attractions that belong to Macau, thereby giving tourists a reason to visit the city besides wanting to stay in a particular hotel or play baccarat in a particular casino. Stage one was to build the infrastructure, she added, but stage two involves Macau developing unique offerings based on what only it can offer. We dont want people to come [to Macau] because they want to stay in a particular hotel. We want them to come [ for] Macau. Although it is ostensibly an international tourism platform designed to promote the sustainable development of the global tourism industry, the Forum is predominantly focused on China and the policy initiatives introduced by Beijing. This year it specifically aims to support Chinas Belt and Road Initiative and the 16+1 economic framework between China and Central and Eastern European countries. The 16 Central and Eastern European countries covered in the framework are Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia. They are partnered with Chinas ethnically diverse Guizhou Province in the southwest of the country. One keynote speaker during yesterdays conference sessions, He Yafei, the leader of a Guizhou-based environmental protection institution, used his time to overtly criticize Washington and the U.S.-led international system, claiming that the country has upended itself and become the single most troubling uncertainty in the world today. Though his speech contained almost no mention of tourism, He took a particular interest in condemning the notion of American exceptionalism, while advancing a form of Chinese exceptionalism as a basis for the countrys foreign relations. The key is to examine closely the cultural and civilization DNA of China that guides its domestic and international policies, said He, according to the transcript of his speech. China, different from previous major powers, will by no means become a hegemonic power as it grows stronger. Instead it is a powerful force for world peace and economic growth by maintaining a global and regional governance system as agreed and accepted by the international community as a whole. The global tourism sector today makes up more than 10 percent of the world economy, and most experts believe it has the potential to grow much larger. China accounts for more outbound tourists than any other country worldwide, and the countrys economic growth in the years ahead suggests that the attraction of Chinese tourists will increasingly serve as a key driver in the economies of other countries, particularly those in Europe, North America and Southeast Asia. Typhoon damages Macaus tourism image MGTO head Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, believes that Typhoon Khanun has damaged the regions tourism image after many tourists were forced to stay at the Border Gate bus and taxi stops during the typhoon. Speaking on the sidelines of the GTEF, the MGTO director has vowed that her department is considering sending messages to tourists prior to their arrivals into Macau, and providing information regarding the citys situation. The massive attack that rocked a bustling Mogadishu street Saturday, killing 300, was a demonstration of resilience by al-Shabab, an Islamist militant group that has been battling U.S.-backed forces. The group frequently targets public spaces in Somalias capital with the goals of undermining the central governments legitimacy and pushing back against its cooperation with the United States and a coalition of African allies. While U.S. officials and other observers say Saturdays bombing does not necessarily signal al-Shababs resurgence, it does highlight the groups ability to absorb setbacks and survive to execute brazen attacks. The militant group has experienced territorial, financial and recruitment losses since 2010, when the United States and its coalition began targeting its command structure. But that has not prevented the group from massing to attack military bases or coordinate bombings inside and outside Somalia, said Seth G. Jones, director of defense policy at the Rand Corp., a Pentagon-funded think tank in Washington. Al-Shabab has areas where they can operate relatively freely, Jones told The Washington Post, including strongholds in southern river valleys. Its challenging terrain for ground troops to navigate, and the dense foliage can obscure drone surveillance. Somali security forces and others gather on Sunday to search for remains at the scene of a deadly attack in Mogadishu, Somalia. (Farah Abdi Warsameh/AP) Attacks against Somali troops and those assigned to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), a force numbering about 22,000, have grown more spectacular as al-Shababs territory has shrunk, Jones concluded in a 2016 report on the counterterrorism campaign there. In June 2016, for instance, 30 Ethiopian soldiers were killed along with 150 al-Shabab militants in an attempt to overrun a base some 200 miles north of Mogadishu. The group has been dangerous to U.S. troops, too. Navy SEAL Kyle Milliken, a senior chief petty officer, was killed in May during a mission described as "behind" Somali troops but later revealed as a mission shoulder-to-shoulder with them. As U.S. airstrikes have targeted al-Shababs commanders and its training camps, the groups leaders have made security adjustments, Jones said. They rely less on computers and cellphones, whose transmissions can be tracked. The U.S. military presence in Somalia is about 400 troops, with approximately half in Mogadishu, the Pentagon said Monday. Those forces include Special Operations troops to train Somali forces and conventional personnel on hand for logistical support, although much of the focus has been on collecting and handing off surveillance and intelligence data to the Somalis. Al-Shabab still controls many rural areas in the south, including the roads leading to cities and towns. Even in Mogadishu, militants go around collecting taxes from businesses to offset revenue losses of seaside ports recaptured by government forces. AMISOM troops heading to Baidoa, one of the largest cities in Somalia, must often use aircraft to get there rather than roads primed for ambushes, said Abdi Ismail Samatar, a Somalia analyst and geography professor at the University of Minnesota who also serves on the board of the University of Mogadishu. They are fighting with a bunch of guerrilla fighters who are exceptionally mobile, who are working in a huge territory in which there is no government, so they are able to do what they want at a time of their own choosing, he said. A State Department official acknowledged that Saturdays truck bomb shows that al-Shabab is capable of staging attacks throughout the country, but said the government is making progress in helping Somalia transition from rule by warlords and clans to a federal government with a countrywide reach. The magnitude of this attack caught everybody by surprise, said the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity under State Department ground rules for briefing reporters. As terrible as the individual attack is, the fact is we dont see this every day now in Somalia. This is extraordinary, and it doesnt change the overall positive trajectory were seeing there. The State Department official said the Somalis have thwarted a number of planned attacks, and defections have been encouraged by the newly elected president, the Somali American Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed. He noted that the latest bombing was condemned by Sheikh Mukhtar Robow, a former al-Shabab leader who defected after the Trump administration removed him from the most-wanted list of terrorists run by the State Departments Rewards for Justice program. I wouldnt characterize the overall situation as the central government is failing or returning to a failed state, the official said. Under the previous and current governments, weve seen some pretty significant improvements. The United States over the past six years has spent $1.5 billion on humanitarian aid for victims of drought and famine, and $240 million on economic development aid, including good-governance projects and new schools and government buildings. The United States also has a diplomatic presence of sorts, although it is limited to the heavily fortified Mogadishu airport, where Somali officials must travel to visit. The embassy officially is in Nairobi, a reflection of the dangerous environment, although it has been rotating diplomats on temporary duty between Somalia and Kenya until it can establish a full-time embassy on the airport grounds. It was March 2020, and the world was closing down as the COVID-19 pandemic spread. At first, the news of... Wildfires in Portugal killed at least 35 people, injured dozens more and left an unconfirmed number of missing in the countrys second such tragedy in four months, officials said yesterday. In neighboring Spain, at least three deaths were reported. The deaths occurred in densely forested parts of central and northern part of Portugal after blazes broke out in exceptional weather circumstances, Civil Protection Agency spokeswoman Patricia Gaspar said. The situation was still critical because of unseasonably high temperatures, Gaspar said. But cooler, wetter weather is approaching, which may give some respite to firefighters tackling the blazes. In addition to the dead, 51 people have been injured, including 15 in serious condition. Gaspar said. She also said that an unknown number of people were still missing. Portugal has been especially hard hit by wildfires this year, including one that killed 64 people in June. An independent investigation into the June fires found last week that authorities failed to evacuate villages on time. The fire destroyed about 29,000 hectares. A prolonged drought and mid- October temperatures of more than 30 C have fueled the recent spate of fires. Across the border in Spain, more than 130 fires were reported in the northwestern Galicia region. Authorities said that four people had died, two of them trapped in a car. Thousands of people have been evacuated. At least 17 fires were close to inhabited areas, many of them in the Vigo province. Schools were closed yesterday and at least 20 planes were joining 350 firefighting units in tackling the blazes. Light rainfall early yesterday was expected to help extinguish the flames. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy traveled to Galicia, where he is from, to visit an emergency response center. MDT/AP Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 17/10/2017 (1855 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. If gauged by the sheer impact on the economy, Small Business Week should be the most important business event of the year. At a well-attended kickoff event Monday, the significance of small businesses to the national and provincial economy was made clear: there are about 120,000 small businesses in Manitoba (with 50 or fewer employees); they have accounted for 95 per cent of the new private sector jobs created over the last decade 1.2 million jobs and they represent 52 per cent of the GDP from the business sector. Changes to federal tax regulations for private business were the hot topic Monday, but a new study done by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) indicated the two major factors creating a new reality for Canadian small business are the large scale demographic changes that are fundamentally reshaping the labour force and the digitization of the economy that is disrupting entire sectors and creating all sorts of new opportunities. BORIS MINKEVICH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Duncan Stewart, Deloitte Canadas technology guru, talks about the top trends in technology, media and telecommunications at an event hosted by World Trade Centre Winnipeg Monday. At the event hosted by World Trade Centre Winnipeg, Loren Remillard, president of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, said, Whats great about these events is it is so fundamental especially given some of the rhetoric weve heard from the federal government around small business tax changes to be able to focus in on the value small business contributes to the community. The BDC study indicated that close to 40 per cent of respondents said technology has already changed their business and more than 50 per cent said it transformed their business. Duncan Stewart, Deloittes Canadian director of research for technology, media and telecommunications (TMT), was on hand to present Deloittes TMT predictions for 2017, noting the declining number of women in the information technology sector (citing incidences of sexual harassment as a major cause) and the absence of any major hardware blockbusters since the computer tablet was introduced in 2010. Deloitte is not always bang-on in its predictions but it has definitely got a few things right including its prediction that virtual reality headsets were not going to be embraced by the masses. Heres a few of this years predictions: Prints charming: biometric security reaches the billions. Deloitte predicts the active base of fingerprint reader-equipped devices will top one billion in 2017. 5G: Deloitte predicts that more than 200 mobile networks around the world will include elements of 5G network architecture in 2017 as part of a steady progression to full launch of 5G in 2020. The great indoors: the final frontier for digital navigation. Deloitte predicts that by 2022, at least one quarter of human and machine uses of digital navigation will include or be exclusively indoors enabled by things such as Wi-Fi hotspots, beacons and other emerging technologies. Brains at the edge: machine learning goes mobile. Deloitte predicts that in 2017 more than 300 million smartphones (more than one fifth of units sold) will have on-board machine-learning capabilities. TV advertising in the U.S.: flat is the new up. Deloitte predicts that U.S. television advertising will be the same in 2017 as it was in 2016 US$72 billion. DDoS attacks enter the terabit era: Deloitte predicts that globally there will be one terabit Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack per month and more than 10 million smaller attacks during the year due to the growing base of insecure Internet of Things devices, online instructions for unskilled attackers and rising uplink data speeds. martin.cash@freepress.mb.ca Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/10/2017 (1856 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. People try to kill most any insect that lands on them or that gets into their house, but not the lady beetle. Its too cute. People are more apt to blow it off, or carry it outside and set it free. Youngsters might give it a home in a jar, along with a few leaves and maybe a name. However, the number of Asian lady beetles has rocketed this year. Manitobans are starting to take another look at them and not just to count their spots. Theres quite a big population this year and theyre quite widespread, Manitoba Agriculture entomologist John Gavloski said. People are writing or calling from across the province because theyre getting into houses in big numbers. Some rural residents are reporting large clusters of lady beetles numbering in the hundreds or thousands in garages or attics, and having to shovel them out. There are 66 types of lady beetles in Manitoba, experts said. In the 1990s, multicoloured Asian lady beetles arrived in North America via an ocean liner. Manitobans are seeing them now, in colours ranging from yellow-orange to red, with zero to 19 spots and theyre the biters. It feels like a pinch, Gavloski said. I think theyre looking for salt. Some rural residents are reporting large clusters of lady beetles numbering in the hundreds or thousands in garages or attics, and having to shovel them out. (Manitoba Agriculture) It is the Asian lady beetle gathering in swarms inside local buildings. Other species of lady beetles will overwinter under leaves or in a sidewalk crack, but the Asian version is used to hibernating in sheltered cliffs. They will fly high trying to find shelter be it in an apartment tower or an attic. The Asian lady beetle also releases a yellow, smelly secretion people often mistake for insect urine. Its actually blood it oozes out of its joints to give a sour odour and taste to ward off predators. The University of Manitoba bug line has also lit up with more than the usual complement of questions about lady beetles, said Jordan Bannerman, an entomology instructor. JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Lady beetles lose some of their cuteness when their numbers begin to overwhelm. Most ask how to get rid of them, he said. People are certainly noticing how abundant they are. I get questions on if they can bite. (Some species do.) Also, people are just concerned because they can be quite smelly. Fellow U of M entomologist Kateryn Rochon has had lady beetles cling to the outside windows of her 26th-floor apartment this year. It drives my cat insane. My cat throws herself at the window trying to catch the beetles. Its been a great year for lady beetles because its been a great year for aphids. Female lady beetles can eat up to 95 aphids a day, while adult males eat about 50. Lady beetles also like to consume insect eggs and other insects such as the European corn borer. Its why farmers usually love lady beetles, as they protect crops. We know some farmers were holding off pesticides because they noticed a high number of lady beetles, Gavloski said. Lady beetles have been used for biological pest-control for many years. Non-native lady beetles were first imported to California from either Australia or New Zealand in the 1880s to control aphids on citrus groves, Gavloski said. It hasnt always worked out, as lady beetle numbers have turned into infestations in some places. Lady beetles tend to swarm in September and October, and with most of the crops off fields now, lady beetles, in general, are migrating, looking for an aphid supplement and a winter hideaway, said Gavloski. To keep out lady beetles, seal any gaps or cracks around doors, windows and similar areas, and cover dryer vents, especially on the sunny southwest side of buildings. Gavloski expects Manitobans will be dealing with large numbers of lady beetles until the end of October, judging by the weather forecasts. Lady beetles dont start bedding down until temperatures are consistently below 10 C, he said. There typically is a high rate of winter kill. bill.redekop@freepress.mb.ca A U.S.-backed Kurdish-led force battling the Islamic State group in Syria will be in control of Raqqa within a few days after attacking the last militant-held pocket of the city, a spokesman for the force said yesterday. Mustafa Bali of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, also said that fierce street battles were underway near the main hospital in Raqqa, once the de facto capital of the extremists self-proclaimed caliphate. SDF fighters launched an operation to retake the last IS-held pocket of the city after some 275 militants and their family members surrendered over the weekend. The extremists still hold about 10 percent of Raqqa, including the hospital and the main stadium, which is believed to be used by the militants as a jail and an arms depot. Activists said those who surrendered were taken to an SDF-run prison in the nearby town of Tabqa, where they are being interrogated before being put on trial. We believe that it will be all over within a few days, Bali said. Those [Islamic State] fighters who are still inside will fight to death. Bali says SDF fighters are marching toward the hospital and the stadium under the cover of airstrikes by the U.S.-led coalition. A senior Kurdish commander with SDF in Raqqa said that since Sunday night until yesterday, civilians had trickled out of IS-held part of the city. The commander, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, said that more than 400 civilians have reached SDF fighters and are now with us. More civilians are still expected to come out, he said, additing that 15 more IS fighters have surrendered. The fighting has calmed down to allow civilians to leave. We know there are groups of Daesh, specially the foreigners. We want to speed up the campaign, no more than two or three days, the commander said. Daesh is the Arabic name for IS. Meanwhile, Syrian government forces and their allies began a major offensive on IS-held neighborhoods in the eastern city of Deir el-Zour, according to state TV and the oppositions Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The Observatory said government forces are pushing through two neighborhoods under the cover of airstrikes by Russian warplanes. The move by government forces came just two days after Syrian President Bashar Assads troops captured the IS stronghold of Mayadeen, south of Deir el-Zour, in another blow to the extremists in eastern Syria. The loss of Raqqa and Deir el-Zour would hand another major blow to IS, which has lost most of the territory it once held in Syria and Iraq. Iraqi forces captured the northern Iraqi city of Mosul the largest ever held by IS in July, and Syrias Mayadeen, near the border with Iraq, was retaken by government forces on Saturday. Bassem Mroue, Beirut, AP Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 17/10/2017 (1855 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA The federal government rejected an offer by Omnitrax last week to restore restricted service along the northern Manitoba rail line to Churchill before next months freeze-up, the Free Press has learned. The Denver-based company said it presented an engineering report Oct. 6 that outlined a way lighter trains could use the flood-damaged line within 30 days, at a cost of between $5 million and $10 million. The province already has spent $6 million shipping emergency propane reserves up to the town of 900 on the shore of Hudson Bay, some 1,600 kilometres north of Winnipeg. OMNITRAX PHOTO Omnitrax said it presented an engineering report Oct. 6 that outlined a way lighter trains could use the flood-damaged line within 30 days, at a cost of between $5 million and $10 million. Earlier this summer, Omnitrax had AECOM Canada create a $43.5-million plan to restore service along the line 60 days before the November freeze. This report, also published by AECOM, involves a much lighter price tag to restore very restricted service within 30 days, but adds full service likely would cost close to the original estimate. The report says cars similar to those used for rail maintenance could be used to take emergency supplies/provisions to Churchill during the winter of 2017-18. Clearly, neither regular train service nor Via Rail service should be contemplated until permanent repairs are carried out. A spokeswoman for Transport Minister Marc Garneau confirmed Monday negotiators received a last-minute suggestion from Omnitrax in recent talks aimed at transferring the rail line and Port of Churchill into local hands. It is disappointing that Omnitrax continues to deflect responsibility for fixing the line to everyone else but themselves, Delphine Denis wrote in an email. According to the report, repairs would involve 20 people each working a maximum of 10 hours each day, provided they had sufficient lodging, equipment and weather. The report notes the major pieces of equipment are readily available. The report concedes it might be too late, with the last rail test taken in August and the last full inspection in early July. The impact of higher temperatures with only skeleton track to restrain the buckling forces may have resulted in additional track damage that now has to be repaired, it reads. Denis said Ottawa is interested in giving federal dollars only to the lines potential new owners. Omnitrax has a clear responsibility to fix the line and we expect them to do so. The federal government will not give further funding to Omnitrax when it is already in breach of its agreement and has shown no interest in being a responsible owner of the line, she wrote. Churchill Mayor Mike Spence who is part of the talks to transfer the rail line and port to two northern Manitoba groups was skeptical of Omnitrax releasing the new report. In late May, they said the rail line was catastrophically damaged. Now they say there is a quick-fix option. Why did they not look at a quick fix to restore service sooner? They directly are jeopardizing the safety of our community and the communities that rely on the Bay Line, Spence wrote Monday. He lamented the propane shipment that arrived Sunday possibly could have been brought up by rail, and blamed Omnitrax. They are holding our community hostage and this needs to end. I expect the federal government to take swift action. Meanwhile, Churchills rail line woes had various authorities pointing fingers at each other Monday, with the government casting doubt on Omnitraxs claim Ottawa refused a visit to inspect the damaged rail line to Churchill, and Omnitrax playing down suggestions it blocked another company from inspecting the line. On Friday, the federal Liberals issued a notice they intend to sue Omnitrax for breach of contract if it doesnt fix the line within a month. (Ottawa since has revealed the deadline is for a response, not construction.) Omnitrax responded Friday with a lengthy statement from its Canadian head, Merv Tweed, which chastised the federal government. It also accused the transportation department of dragging its feet. When the flood came, we immediately informed our regulator of the damage and requested that they come view this damage first hand. Transport Canada declined to personally inspect the damage, Tweed said. An Omnitrax official, who spoke on the condition he wouldnt be named, said Monday he met June 16 with three Transport Canada officials at their Prairie-region offices at 344 Edmonton St. in Winnipeg, to discuss the damage and invite them to come survey the line. Garneau told the Free Press he was not aware of the specific details. Katie de Muelles / Winnipeg Free Press Via Train rail cars sit at the Port of Churchill on Monday, next to the MV Nunalik, which will bring them to Montreal. The ship needs to first unload its shipment of 2.2 million litres of propane and equipment. Meanwhile, Garneau clarified his month-long ultimatum is for Omnitrax to adequately reply not to get the rail line under construction. The 30-day timeline is for them to respond to the letter that I am sending them, he said. Thats despite a news release Friday from Energy Minister Jim Carr, which said Transport Canada had sent Omnitrax a notice of default demanding that it complete all railway repairs and resume rail service within 30 days. Carr had told the Free Press hed be consider avoiding a lawsuit if Omnitrax showed some progress. The minister is planning to visit the northern Manitoba town later this week. Meanwhile, Spence said Sunday Omnitrax had denied Keewatin Railway Company access to the line, after it offered June 23 to repair the line, and said July 6 it could be fixed for $2 million. But Omnitrax said Monday it had reached out to KRCs general manager, Tom McCahill, after that estimate, providing some of its engineering findings about the damage. (McCahill did not immediately respond to an interview request.) Weve never received a formal request from them to come on-site. Nor had we ever sent them a formal notice saying they couldnt go out on the line, the Omnitrax official said. He noted the two companies regularly work together on the lines western flank. The province said Monday its still considering whether it would follow Ottawa in suing Omnitrax for breach of contract. Carrs notice Friday said if the rail line wasnt repaired, the feds would sue Omnitrax for $18.8 million thats how much Ottawa has already paid of $20 million pledged under a 2008 agreement. That agreement had the province and Omnitrax itself each pledge to also contribute $20 million over 10 years, to keep the rail line running but the provinces contribution fell under a separate contract and the province paid the full amount by 2013. Since the closure of the rail line, our government has focused primarily on the safety and security of the community, mainly with respect to critical supplies of food, propane and other fuels, provincial Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler said Monday. He said Ottawas legal threat was not surprising, given the companys inaction. Our government had a sense this step was coming and clearly understands the federal governments position. dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca AECOM report on 30-day fix for rail line to Churchill Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 17/10/2017 (1855 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Manitobas 14 MPs have an affinity for Tim Hortons, fly home frequently and grapple with their large ridings, according to expense reports released by the House of Commons Speakers office. A Free Press analysis of expense forms, hospitality claims and travel plans show none of Manitobas MPs have recently overspent. But the reports reveal some trends, such as Liberals going to community galas and Conservatives spending more on advertising. Since April 2014, MPs have been required to submit detailed expenditure reports that break down how they used their budget, where they flew on the publics dime, and how much they spend on hospitality. Each expense category is subject to strict limits, such as $100 for office decorations, $250 per banner, and a 10 per cent cap on advertising. MPs who go over-budget pay out of their personal $172,700 annual salary. In the latest annual expense reports, spanning April 2016 to March 2017, Manitobas MPs spent between $350,000 and $550,000. Their budgets are determined by resources provided by the House, an allocation for travel, advertising and offices based on riding size, as well as members budgets, which includes all added spending such as employee salaries and staff. Theyre also given travel points to fly home and around Canada, so people based far from Ottawa dont have to restrict their visits based on cost. Justin Tang / The Canadian Press files Niki Ashton had the highest overall spending because of her large riding with its three offices. NDP MP Niki Ashton had the highest overall spending, at $551,274.55. Her House-provided budget is already higher because of her sprawling northern Manitoba riding (ChurchillKeewatinook Aski), but her own budget also led the pack. Ashton says thats because she has three offices, in Thompson, The Pas and Peguis, and lots of travel beyond that. Like many MPs, Ashton says constituency offices have taken on greater roles with disability and pensions cheques, treaty-status issues and immigration questions, as Ottawa has reduced Service Canada staff. Ashtons filings also included more special travel points than other MPs meaning trips to places in Canada outside her riding. She says thats because her NDP critic role had her roving Canada to learn about precarious work among millennials. We undertook a national tour, the first of its kind. I was the first MP to talk about the issue of unemployment and underemployment among young people, and obviously the tour informed that, Ashton said. She added Commons officials consider trips to Winnipeg special and log them separately, even though they are often needed for her northern ridings constituency work. Its a beef Ive had for some time, she said with a laugh. Ashton did not expense trips to North Dakota last year to campaign for Democratic nominee Bernie Sanders. She wouldnt have been able to, as U.S. trips are only allowed for political business, and only for New York City and Washington, D.C. PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Manitoba New Democrat MP Daniel Blaikie on how much of the Federal Government's Canada 150 money is flowing to the province: I do find it strange that were not getting our fair share. Her NDP colleague, Daniel Blaikie, had the lowest spending: $366,238.36. Conservative MP James Bezan spent the most money on advertising, and had the second-highest overall spending among Manitoban MPs (a trend repeated in the recently filed reports for April-June of this year). Bezan said thats because of the nine community newspapers in his Selkirk-area riding, and the 18 highway signs that have started wearing out after almost a decade. Unlike the government of Canada where often departments go way over-budget and taxpayers are on the hook if we go over-budget, we pay for it out of our pockets, said Bezan, who hired an extra staff member to help his role as the official critic for defence. Winnipeg South Centre MP Jim Carr has the most expensive secondary residence, costing $24,027.91 over the 12-month period. The Liberal energy minister pointed out he spends a lot of time in Ottawa, and the amount is within the spending guidelines. We are very conscientious of spending public money, he said. We know we are accountable, as we should be. Dan Vandal, MP for the Saint-Boniface area, had the highest office-lease expenses, at $42,051. Vandal was on the HMCS Winnipeg and couldnt be reached last week, but a staff member said the number is due to the size of his office. Located in the Red Top plaza, the Liberal members office is wheelchair accessible, has parking and was used by the previous MP, the staff member notes. Candice Bergen had the second-highest office-lease expenses. Portage-Lisgar MP Candice Bergen had the second-highest office-lease expenses, though its split between two locations. The Tory MP said in a statement its because her large, rural riding requires two offices in order to provide my constituents with the best possible service, even if neither come cheap. Southern Manitoba is booming, and while that is a great thing for the residents, it does mean that office space is at a premium, she wrote. MPs cannot spend more than three per cent of their budgets on hospitality and gifts, which no Manitobans exceeded. MPs of all stripes tend to spend these at local restaurants, community galas and even hunting clubs. But the most common recipient of MP cash was Tim Hortons restaurants, which took in $977.08 from all three parties. Bezan spent the most at Tims, with $296.45 spread among five separate events. The provinces most generous MP is Ted Falk, who had the highest combined spending on the two areas. FRED CHARTRAND / THE CANADIAN PRESS Conservative MP Ted Falk Falks executive assistant, Mike Cancade, said thats because of the Conservatives two large constituency barbecues he held last summer, which brought out more than 1,600 locals. (He only held one this summer, so he expects a lower tab.) Mr. Falk attends numerous parades each year in his Provencher riding. As many members of Parliament across the country do, Mr. Falk hands out candy to the children along the parade routes, Cancade wrote. Falks expenditure reports also show frequent constituent meetings at Dairy Queen and Smittys Restaurant, but the amounts arent exorbitant. Least generous was Liberal MP Kevin Lamoureux, who spent the least in both gifts and hospitality. I dont know what to say about that, he said sheepishly. I believe the vast majority [of] members of Parliament of all political stripes behave extraordinarily well in terms of how they spend tax dollars, he said. They need to be spent with a great deal of respect. Lamoureux took the most trips home, logging 29.5 return flights on his own, which he says is needed to do his weekly Saturday constituent meetings. But the most frequent flier was fellow Liberal Terry Duguid, who expensed 44.5 return flights to Winnipeg, including five by staff and 11 by family members. Im in the riding religiously, said Duguid. I think I have only missed one entire weekend in my entire two years as an MP, he said. He noted some of his travel was for events as a parliamentary secretary, a role of representing and advising a minister. While travel for that role is normally arranged by the relevant ministers office, Duguid said he occasionally dips into his personal MP budget, to avoid bureaucratic hassle. Robert Sopuck had high spending on employee salaries, but the lowest advertising among Conservative MPs. Robert Sopuck, who represents an expansive Tory area encompassing Dauphin and Neepawa, had the third-highest expenses. He said thats because his riding is the size of Nova Scotia but populated by small, spread-out towns. Im probably one of the highest mileage MPs within the entire country, he said. My people have to travel a lot and I want to make sure theyre remunerated well. Sopuck had high spending on employee salaries, but the lowest advertising among Conservative MPs, which he attributed to small-scale newspapers with cheap rates. The Free Press did not contact four MPs, as they had unremarkable expense reports: Liberals Doug Eyolfson (Headingley area), MaryAnn Mihychuk (Kildonan-St. Paul) and Robert-Falcon Ouellette (Winnipeg Centre), as well as Conservative Larry Maguire (Brandon-Souris). Lamoureux said hes glad the Commons started publishing expense reports three years ago. Proactive disclosure allows people to have a sense of how were spending the money, he said. They can make a judgement based on that. dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca Manitoba MP expense reports Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 17/10/2017 (1855 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. How have Manitobas cities and towns managed the resettlement of a surge of Syrian refugees? Manitobans are invited to a public forum Oct. 24 at the University of Winnipeg to find out. The event, Finding Refuge in Canada: A Syrian Resettlement Story, is being hosted by two Canadian senators on the standing committee for human rights Jim Munson and Salma Ataullahjan. Theyre being joined by representatives of Regional Connections, a one-stop-shop that provides services, resources and referrals for newcomers living in south central Manitoba and the Winnipeg Immigration Partnership, which aims to create a community with a strong desire and capacity to receive newcomers and make them feel at home. They will be discussing Manitobas urban and small-centre experiences in resettling Syrian refugees from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. next Tuesday on the first floor of U of Ws Lockhart Hall. The event is free. Opinion Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 17/10/2017 (1855 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. When Indigenous womens lives are stolen in Manitoba, they are taken from all over: their home, someone elses home, the sidewalk, a park. Some are stolen from a place only the person who took their life knows for sure. Some vanish, and are never found. Others are recovered from the bush or the river or a patch of lonely ground. So many have been taken, now they have their own term: missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Their memory, though, that never goes missing. They all have someone who holds tight, and hangs on. John Woods / The Canadian Press A bag for tear-soaked tissues sits on a chair reserved for family as the family of Nicole Daniels speaks to commissioner Michelle Audette at the opening day of hearings at the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls So this week, the memories of the lost are carried here, to the heart of Winnipeg. They are raised to the 11th floor of the Radisson hotel, and into a bright ballroom brocaded by inoffensive neutral-tone carpet and crystal chandeliers. At one end of the room, a qulliq a traditional Inuit oil lamp glows with a gentle low flame. The air is spiced by the slight waft of sage. On the chairs are boxes of tissues and brown paper bags labelled, in black marker, Tears. The paper bags, the ballroom, the very reason people are here: all of it is a receptacle for tears. All of it is a basin, waiting to receive the oceans of grief and frustration, oceans that have rolled tides through Manitoba over dozens of years. It is here the National Inquiry for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls set up this week, for five days of public hearings and workshops in Winnipeg. So far, more than 75 people have registered to give their testimony. That number is but a fraction of those who have lost someone to violence on this territory. When family members of murdered women cried into the microphone Monday, the first day of proceedings, their tears spoke for too many. As these brave families relive their grief, in public, let their tears chart a course to the right questions. What will we see in these tears, that we have not already? What more is there to learn, from the things these families know? From the beginning, the inquiry itself has beleaguered by resignations, deadline pressures and questions over its approach. Skeptics are concerned it will be ineffective; many Indigenous advocates have called for a full reset. Much of the debate is fair criticism, and in many cases accurate and deserved. Yet the heart of the inquiry isnt process or procedures; at its core is real pain suffered by real people, and they are the ones speaking out. So for now, while the families of the lost are speaking, we ought to listen. On Monday, the inquiry heard a thunderclap of heartbreak and love and frustration. It heard the cry of families rocked by violence and in some cases official indifference. It heard of dark holes womens whole lives fell through. In the afternoon, Lorna Sinclair remembered how, after her sister, Myrna Letandre, abruptly stopped calling family in October 2006, she called police. She begged them to search the Lorne Avenue house where Letandre lived. Sinclair wanted police to confront Letandres then-partner, Traigo Andretti. Sinclair eventually confronted him herself; he told her he didnt know where Letandre was, only shed left suddenly for British Columbia or Calgary. I said, I know you are lying, Sinclair recalled Monday, but for years police found no trace of her sister. In 2013, Andretti then living in B.C. murdered his wife, Jennifer McPherson. Sparked by that investigation, police soon discovered Letandres remains in the Lorne Avenue house. Shed waited nearly seven years to be found. Sinclair told the inquiry, she struggles with guilt she could have done more. Yet she did all she could, to bring her sisters killer to justice and Monday, surrounded by McPhersons family, that truth once again shined. Is there hope? Several people who gave testimony noted they had seen improvements in systemic responses. If so, it did not happen by chance or overnight; it happened because advocates brought truth to light. (Listening to Sinclair speak, I was reminded of last years search for Christine Wood. At one point during her parents search, the family received a lead of murky veracity. Even still, police arrived to search the location within minutes. Those efforts couldnt save Christine, who police now believe was killed the night she went missing. But as the tragic story of Letandre and McPherson shows, rapid interventions can save someone, even someone not yet known.) But there was something else the inquiry heard Monday, something brighter and more lovely. Because the families spoke of light, too, and all of the things that helped carry them through and this is something else to be learning. Kim McPherson spoke of the grief counsellor who saved (her) life after her sisters passing. She smiled as she spoke of Jennifers crafting and creativity; for that memory, the family offered a Christmas ornament to the inquiry. We have enough love and strength in our family that it hasnt destroyed us, McPherson said. That is the part media sometimes misses in stories, the part that rarely shows up in a headline or in court. It is a beacon of resilience, a light of love and hope, held aloft by families who already bear the weight of the world. Maybe, someday, we can build a society where fewer families will have to carry that burden. For now, we can honour those that light the way forward, showing us the way out of the pain of our present, and towards better days to come. melissa.martin@freepress.mb.ca Appearing Monday before a military judge at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, former prisoner of war Bowe Bergdahl pleaded guilty to the separate charges of desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, related to his decision in 2009 to walk off a remote military outpost in Afghanistan. Army Sergeant Bergdahl was taken prisoner by the Taliban and held under brutal conditions for five years until he was exchanged for five Taliban prisoners held at the US detention camp in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Bergdahls decision to plead guilty and avoid a trial is the outcome of a relentless right-wing vendetta aimed at intimidating rank-and-file soldiers and suppressing any opposition to the neocolonial war in Afghanistan, now in its 17th year. We may as well go back to kangaroo courts and lynch mobs that got what they wanted, Bergdahl said in a 2016 interview first broadcast by ABC News on Monday in which he responded to the right-wing campaign to punish him after his years spent in captivity in Pakistan. The people who want to hang me, youre never going to convince those people. The persecution of Bergdahl is seen as critical as the Trump administration dispatches thousands of more soldiers to fight and die in the effort to assert the hegemony of American imperialism over Central Asia. Underlying the campaign against Bergdahl are fears of the growth of demoralization and disillusionment within the ranks which could undermine the expansion of American war efforts in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia, which are aimed ultimately at Russia and China. From the moment that it became clear that he had walked off the base in opposition to the prosecution of the war, there were efforts by Fox News and other right-wing media outlets to falsely vilify Bergdahl and his family as Taliban converts. Military figures and right-wing pundits called repeatedly for the young solider to be executed as a traitor who is responsible for the injury and death of soldiers dispatched to locate him. Republican Senator John McCain, himself a former prisoner of war during the Vietnam War, had threatened to hold congressional hearings if the military trial did not result in a conviction and punishment for Bergdahl. Bergdahls plea came after his attorneys efforts to have the charges thrown out earlier this year were rebuffed. The judge overseeing the trial, Colonel Jeffery A. Nance, rejected the argument that the election of President Donald Trump, who had made derogatory comments about Bergdahl on the campaign trail, had made a fair trial impossible. Trump, to whom all military officers, including those involved in Bergdahls prosecution, answer as commander-in-chief, had declared the young soldier a dirty, rotten traitor. He called for Bergdahls execution multiple times on the campaign trail. You know in the old days: Bing. Bong, Trump said on one occasion, mimicking a firing squad. When we were strong. Nance found the presidents remarks on the campaign trail disturbing and disappointing, but he allowed the prosecution to continue, ruling that Trumps comments were not enough to sway the outcome of the trial or justify the dismissal of the charges. Bergdahls punishment will be determined after a hearing next week; the charge of desertion carries a maximum penalty of five years in military prison, but the charge of misbehavior carries with it a possible life sentence. According to the New York Times, there was no plea deal with the prosecution, meaning it will be entirely up to Nance to determine any possible leniency in sentencing. Bergdahl was captured by the Taliban after walking off his military outpost in Paktika province, on the border with Pakistan, in a failed attempt to report to senior officers the incompetence of his battalion commander. The young private first class, 23 years old at the time of his capture, was tortured and starved by his captors, confined to a six-foot-by-seven-foot cage for years and severely beaten after two escape attempts. Bergdahl was held for five years in Pakistan by the Haqqani Network, a faction of the Taliban with connections to Pakistani intelligence. He was eventually released in a 2014 prisoner swap for five Guantanamo Bay detainees, approved by the Obama administration. In the final e-mail sent to his parents before walking off the base in 2009, Bergdahl complained of his commanders incompetence and the broader criminality which he had witnessed. I am sorry for everything here. These people need help, yet what they get is the most conceited country in the world telling them that they are nothing and that they are stupid, that they have no idea how to live, Bergdahl wrote. We dont even care when we hear each other talk about running their children down in the dirt streets with our armored trucks. ... We make fun of them in front of their faces, and laugh at them for not understanding we are insulting them. ... I am sorry for everything. The horror that is America is disgusting. His father, Bob Bergdahl, wrote back a short time later counseling his son to OBEY YOUR CONSCIENCE! Launched by Republican George W. Bush in October 2001, escalated by Barack Obama and continued by Trump, the war in Afghanistan has killed an estimated 111,000 Afghans directly, while another 360,000 have died as an indirect result of the war. Nearly 2,300 American soldiers have been killed in the war, with yearly fatalities peaking during the so-called surge ordered by Obama in 2009-2011. Despite the nearly two-decade effort of the US to prop up a puppet government and assert military control over the country, many provinces have fallen back under the control of the Taliban. The American military has committed countless war crimes, from the massacres of wedding parties to the recent dropping of the MOAB, the most powerful bomb dropped by the United States since the nuclear bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of World War II. The unrelenting campaign to punish Bergdahl is a warning that further war crimes are being prepared in Central Asia and beyond in the effort to suppress any opposition to American dominance of the entire world. Proposed changes to New York state workers compensation regulations would severely reduce the benefits workers receive for work-related injuries and illnesses. These changes, developed by the states Workers Compensation Board, and presented in draft form on September 1, were formulated in response to a requirement mandated by the state legislature, at the behest of employers associations and insurance companies, to reform the existing law with the aim of reducing costs. This directive was included in the 2017 state budget, passed by the Republican-controlled Senate and Democrat-dominated Assembly, and signed by Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo. The new regulations are to be in place by January 1. The proposed changes include substantial reductions in payments to workers who have suffered diminished use of limbs, increased requirements placed on workers to prove reduction in future earnings, restrictions on a workers ability to obtain an independent medical evaluation of an injury, and greater obstacles placed against workers seeking to contest the level of an award. Proponents of the proposed changes contend that medical advances have rendered the consequences of on-the-job accidents less severe and, therefore, that the amount and duration of compensation should be reduced. This is a specious argument on its face. Since such medical advances will, of themselves, result in more effective recoveries from workplace injuries, the proportion of severely partially or fully disabled workers will inevitably be reduced, lowering the overall expense of compensation claims. However, the effect of the proposed changes is to drastically reduce costs to employers and insurers across the board, regardless of the severity of the injury or degree of recovery. Critics charge that the boards assessment of reduction of injury impacts is not based on any objective medical data. The cost reductions to employers envisioned to result from the new regulations come on top of a cut of 4.5 percent in insurance premium rates enacted as part of the 2017 state budget. This is expected to reduce employers costs by $400 million this year. The rate reductions are the result of limitations on disability payments to workers mandated in the budget. The new draft regulations seek to limit consideration of particular circumstances that may exacerbate the consequences of an injury on a worker and his or her family by imposing rigid objective criteria for judging its severity and impact. The proposed changes would affect low-paid workers most severely, since the amount of compensation is primarily based on a workers existing wages. Partial or complete loss of the ability to work is devastating to any worker, but especially to those and their families who are already close to the margin. The workers compensation law in New York state dates to the early twentieth century. It was prompted by the tragic 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist fire in New York City, which killed 146 garment workers, among the deadliest industrial disasters in US history. An earlier version had recently been ruled unconstitutional by state court as an impermissible transfer of wealth from employers to workers. Such laws in New York and elsewhere were presented as a compromise, designed to provide some compensation to workers for devastating injuries incurred on the job, which were becoming increasingly common and severe as industrialization advanced and, at the same time, to insulate employers from occasional large judgements against them. For years, employers and insurance companies have raised increasing claims that the existing regulations are too lenient and cost too much money. In fact, total loss awards in New York State are lower now than in 1996. A recent editorial in the Albany Times-Union complained that prohibitively high Workers Compensation insurance costs in the state have long stifled growth and investment. As with all such moves to reduce costs to businesses, proponents claim that the reductions will spur business growth and increase jobs. The New York State AFL-CIO has raised toothless objections to the proposed changes, appealing to the Workers Compensation Board to reject the draft guidelines and prepare new ones less detrimental to workers. Such appeals will fall on deaf ears. The proposed changes to the New York workers compensation system are part of the broader social counterrevolution being carried out by the capitalist elite, which sees every social benefit won by the working class through decades of struggle as an illegitimate restraint on their ability to realize maximum profits. As with the assaults on health care and retirement benefits, the attack on workers compensation is another step in the drive to return workers to conditions not seen since the nineteenth century. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi ordered an offensive by Iraqi army units and pro-government Shia militias Monday to capture the oil-rich city of Kirkuk and surrounding areas from the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG). The attack, which reportedly provoked clashes in some areas between Iraqi units and Peshmerga fighters, threatens not only to further destabilize Iraq, but could prove the trigger for a broader catastrophic conflict that could quickly engulf neighboring Syria, drawing in regional and imperialist powers. The retaking of Kirkuk took place after Baghdad negotiated the voluntary withdrawal of Peshmerga forces aligned with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) faction, which is hostile to KRG president Masoud Barzani and opposed Septembers Kurdish independence referendum. The referendum, which returned a substantial majority in favor of independence, was condemned by the regional and imperialist powers, and denounced by Baghdad as unconstitutional. Barzani declared the Iraqi advance to be an act of war and ordered the Peshmerga under his command to use all available resources to fight back. KRG officials accused the PUK of a betrayal for failing to resist the Iraqi advance. The loss of Kirkuk will be a devastating setback to Barzanis independence plans. Control of the oil reserves from the area represented an important source of income for the KRG, which established a pipeline to Turkey to bypass Baghdad and sell oil on the world market. While Peshmerga forces remained in control of oilfields outside Kirkuk Monday, Irbil reportedly had to halt oil supplies to Turkey as engineers failed to report to work. Eurasia Group estimated that of the 600,000 barrels a day shipped by the KRG to Turkey, 450,000 barrels would fall under the control of the Iraqi central government if it establishes a secure hold over Kirkuk and surrounding regions. While US military figures and the corporate media sought to downplay the scale of the clashes Monday, the Iraqi armys advance will have explosive consequences and poses the danger of a renewed wave of sectarian bloodletting that could rapidly engulf the entire region. Both sides have not only been armed to the teeth and trained by the US and its imperialist allies over recent years, but are contesting areas which are of major economic and geostrategic significance. Added to this, the extremely fragile situation in Iraq and throughout the Middle East, as the US and European imperialist powers jostle to advance their interests and regional powers like Turkey, Iran, Israel and Saudi Arabia are drawn ever more closely into a complex web of alliances that are increasingly in flux, and the true extent of the danger posed to the regions long-suffering population becomes clear. Kirkuk was a prize possession of the KRG. The oil-rich city and surrounding oilfields have been under Kurdish control since 2014, when Iraqi forces fled before the advance of ISIS. In last months referendum, Barzani controversially included the ethnically diverse city in the area considered to be part of an independent state, hoping thereby to seize control of its oil wealth. Baghdad responded furiously, vowing to use the military to restore its control. Primary responsibility for the ethnic and sectarian conflict lies with US imperialism and its allies, which have systematically encouraged Kurdish regional ambitions in northern Iraq since the illegal US-led invasion in 2003. At the same time, Washington helped establish a Shia-dominated puppet regime in Baghdad that conducted a brutal crackdown on Sunni areas of Iraq, while refusing to countenance any move by the Kurds towards independence. Having destroyed Iraqi society, creating the political and social conditions within which regional and ethnic conflicts could assume such malignant forms, US imperialism is now hypocritically seeking to pose as a neutral arbiter between Baghdad and Irbil, appealing to both sides to show restraint. Its main goal in this is to prevent all-out civil war in Iraq, since this would cut across Washingtons broader agenda in the Middle East of pushing back Iranian influence and consolidating an alliance with the Gulf states and Israel to secure US dominance over the energy-rich and strategically important region. However, US actions are the most destabilizing factor. While backing both the KRG and Iraqi central government with financial and military resources, as well as personnel on the ground, Washington is relying chiefly on Kurdish allies in Syria to oust the Islamic State from its rapidly shrinking territory, and, much more significantly from the Washingtons point of view, prevent forces loyal to Iran and the Syrian government of Bashar al-Assad from emerging in control of eastern Syria. This would facilitate Tehrans establishment of a land bridge to Damascus, Lebanon and the Mediterranean coast, a development which would be a major strategic blow to the US, and its major Middle East ally, Israel. Though the Syrian Kurds are not on good terms with Barzani, instead aligning themselves with the Turkish Kurdish Workers Party (PKK), Ankara, Baghdad and Tehran all view the emergence of strengthened Kurdish autonomous areas in northern Syria and Iraq as intolerable. Turkey has once again over recent days sent troops into northern Syria to block the emergence of a contiguous Kurdish territory on its southern border, prompting sharp protests from the Syrian government that its sovereignty is being violated. Further escalating tensions in Syria, the Israeli Air Force carried out a strike on a missile battery near Damascus Monday morning, claiming it had fired at Israeli reconnaissance planes over Lebanon. Ankara condemned Barzanis independence referendum and held talks with Iran about a possible military intervention. It has pledged to hand over border crossings between Turkey and the KRG to the Baghdad government. With a Turkish military base in northern Iraq not far from Mosul, Ankara could also be drawn into the fighting if it spreads. A Turkish government statement praised the Iraqi offensive, claiming that it was necessary to drive out PKK forces which were allegedly being harbored by the KRG. It noted, in what amounted to a threat of a direct military invasion, that Ankara is ready for any form of co-operation with the Iraqi government in order to end the PKK presence in Iraqi territory. This follows the provocative declaration by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the wake of the Kurdish referendum that Irbils actions could spark an ethnic war. The Iraqi offensive comes just days after US President Donald Trump vowed to blow up the 2015 nuclear accord with Tehran, unless the pact is renegotiated to meet Washingtons demands. His announcement not only aggravated tensions between the US and Iran throughout the Middle East, with Washingtons commitment to target the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) operations in Syria, Yemen and elsewhere, but brought to light the widening rift between US imperialist policy and that of its European rivals. Should the fighting in Iraq spread, Iran faces the immediate prospect of being dragged into the conflict. Substantial numbers of Iranian military personnel, including members of the Revolutionary Guards, have been embedded in the Iraqi military to strengthen it in its operations against ISIS, a fact which was reportedly important in preventing Trump from designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization in his Iran speech Friday. In addition, the Shia militias which have joined the Iraqi army advance into Kirkuk are under Iranian influence. The Guardian reported that Qassem Suleimani, head of the IRGCs Quds force, helped direct the offensive. Unconfirmed reports Monday indicated that ethnic strife has already begun. Kurdish commanders claimed that advancing Iraqi forces had burned villages south of Kirkuk. Large numbers of people were said to be fleeing the city, while the Kurdish governor of the region appealed to everyone with arms to resist Baghdads advance. The Iraqi government has asserted that the Shia militias or Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), who are notorious for anti-Sunni and anti-Kurdish attacks, have agreed not to enter Kirkuk itself, a multi-ethnic and multi-religious city including Arabs, Turkmens and Kurds. But already by Monday afternoon, there were reports of two senior PMU commanders entering the city to watch Iraqi flags being raised over government buildings. Al-Abadi released a statement Monday proclaiming that the military operation sought to protect the unity of the country and urged Kurds not to resist. An indication of the violence in store for the region is given by the fact that the Iraqi advance was led by elite forces from Baghdads Counter-Terrorism Force, which led the murderous assault on Mosul that, in conjunction with US air strikes, laid waste to much of the city and claimed tens of thousands of civilian lives. Twin bombings in central areas of Somalias capital of Mogadishu Saturday killed at least 302 people and injured 300 others, with the death toll expected to climb. Unknown numbers are still missing. The attacks occurred in Mogadishus K5 district, which hosts government offices and upscale restaurants and hotels. The bombings, which killed top government officials, including Humanitarian Affairs Director Mohamoud Elmi, are described by witnesses and analysts as unprecedented and the worst in recent Somali history. Nearly all of the dead were killed by the first bomb, which exploded outside a popular hotel near a busy intersection in Mogadishu, sending a plume of smoke into the sky that could be seen from across the city. The second truck bomb killed a few more people nearby. Al-Shabaab, the Somali Islamist militia, which government officials believe to be behind the attack, has not claimed responsibility. In speaking to the likelihood of Al-Shabaab carrying out the attack, Matt Bryden, security consultant with the International Crisis Group for the Horn of Africa, told the Associated Press, No other group in Somalia has the capacity to put together a bomb of this size, in this nature. The deadly attack comes as the Trump administration has escalated Washingtons military offensive against Al-Shabaab. Early in his administration, Trump authorized looser rules of engagement for US commanders in Somalia as well as a new wave of US troop deployments. In July, the White House approved a series of drone strikes against Al-Shabaab strongholds in southern Somalia. Indicating the attack is under consideration as a pretext for further US military escalation, US officials stated to the media, Such cowardly attacks reinvigorate the commitment of the United States to assist our Somali and African Union partners to combat the scourge of terrorism. While the precise extent of US involvement in Somalia is kept almost entirely secret from the public, during the past year a series of announcements and official leaks from both the Obama and Trump administrations, together with discussions between Washington and European governments, have made clear that Washington is looking to escalate its military presence in the country. During the May 12-13 London Conference on Somalia, the plans for carving up the country by Washington with support from Britain were made clear. Topics discussed included strategies for an intensified buildup of military forces inside Somalia, and for the further breakup of Somalias central state structure via devolution of power to regional governments in Somaliland and Puntland. What was clear at the conference in London is that Somalia is being used as a central testing ground for the neocolonial policies and methods of the imperialist powers. The Somalia campaign, enacted under Obama and continued by the Trump administration, which calls for an increased US troop presence in the country, is viewed as a blueprint for new wars across the Middle East and Africa according to senior government officials cited by the New York Times last year. At least 300 American commandos are involved in daily military operations in Somalia alongside Somali, Ugandan, Kenyan and Ethiopian soldiers, with reports of US forces engaging directly in combat operations. US soldiers and mercenaries are leading ongoing training of Somali commandos at a secret base at Baledogle airport near Mogadishu. Recent Al-Shabaab successes, including the overrunning of a Somali government military base and African Union bases manned by Burundian, Ugandan, and Kenyan troops earlier this year, have shown the ability of Al-Shabaab to exploit the mass hatred toward the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) government, which was installed via US-backed Ethiopian and Kenyan invasions, and has been propped up by a military occupation enforced by US-backed the African Union multinational army. The chaotic state of Somali society is a consequence of the military efforts of US imperialism and its African puppets during the 25 years since the 1989-1991 breakup of the USSR, which was allied in different periods with Somalia and Ethiopia. Enlisting the regime of Siad Barre to counter Soviet influence in the Horn of Africa, Washington supported Mogadishu with millions of dollars in weaponry. After 1991, Washington abruptly withdrew its support for Somalia and the sudden removal of US aid to Mogadishu led immediately to the collapse of the central government. The resulting chaos was in turn exploited by American military-intelligence and corporate-financial entities to begin a neocolonial carve-up of the country. A major factor in Washingtons drive for dominance over the Horn of Africa is the regions strategic importance abutting the waterway for much of the worlds oil traffic flowing through the Red Sea from the Persian Gulf. Chinas increased economic influence in recent decades in nearly all sectors of Africas economy is another major concern. Washington views Beijing as an intolerable rival to be neutralized. Ratcheting up the tensions even further are Beijings establishment of a naval base in Djibouti, its first outside Chinese waters. Saturdays attacks only underscore the catastrophic results produced by imperialist intervention. Despite a decade of brutal war and counterinsurgency against Al-Shabaab, the US-backed TFG in Mogadishu is a puppet regime with no popular support anywhere in the country and is unable to control even the most critical areas of its own capital. Washingtons criminal role has led to the complete destruction of Somali society. Dysfunctional and corrupt, the US-backed government in Mogadishu is unable to provide basic infrastructure, such as sanitary water facilities or decent health care, and an epidemic of treatable diseases such as cholera has ensued. Washingtons nearly three-decade imperialist offensive against the country has created the conditions for the rise of such extremist groups as Al-Shabaab. 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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 Recently, Capital Airlines launched a flight route connecting Lisbon to Beijing, and, in July, the route was extended from Beijing to Macau. During September and October, I travelled this route and have decided to write an opinion about my experience. Nevertheless, readers should be aware that every individual has their own preferences. That said, I will recount my experience in taking said flights for the readers benefit. The flight from Macau to Beijing took off at 4:40 p.m. and landed at 8:05 p.m. (different now). Later that night, the aircraft took off from Beijing at 1:15 a.m. and arrived in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, at 7:30. First of all, the boarding passes. The boarding pass from Macau to Beijing, and the one from Beijing to Lisbon cannot be given together while in Macau. Therefore, when in Beijing, I had to formally enter the city in order to get my boarding pass to Lisbon. Luckily, luggage can be checked through to Lisbon from Macau. After checking in, next up was boarding. In the absence of a boarding bridge, I had to take a shuttle bus (albeit a short trip) from the airport to board the aircraft, after which we flew for around three hours. Upon arrival of my flight to Beijing, the aircraft landed in the T2 zone at the Beijing International Airport at approximately 8 p.m. Again, I had to take a shuttle bus from the aircraft to the T2 building. Based on my (late) acquired information, there were a few counters available at the T2 building to help transiting passengers get their boarding pass without them having to pass through the checkpoints. However, nobody was working on that day when I arrived, and so I had to go through the immigration checkpoints. A warning to future travelers of this trip: do prepare a printed version of your tickets from Beijing to Lisbon, or an electronic file, if you are a non-Chinese passport holder! I had to wait for three hours before checking in for my flight from Beijing to Lisbon. The departure time of the Beijing-Lisbon flight is the time of the night when most shops and restaurants at Beijings T2 are closed. When the time to board finally came, I took another shuttle bus from the T2 building to the aircraft. Then came the 12 hour-flight to Lisbon. Upon arriving in the city, I took another airport shuttle bus to get to Lisbon airports checkpoint building. The trip back to Macau followed the exact same steps in reverse order. Check-in at Lisbon, waiting at immigration, shuttle bus, boarding, flying to Beijing, immigration, check-in, immigration checkpoints, waiting for shuttle-bus, boarding, flying, shuttle bus and finally immigration in Macau. In the last episode of this adventure, there were seven people, me included, who had flown from Lisbon to Macau. My luggage was delayed due to unexplained reasons. Other things related to the airlines service must be experienced and duly judged by whoever is planning to take this flight. A little reminder: do get well prepared mentally, physically and financially for choosing seats online prior to your departure, the flight crews English proficiency, the crews service quality, other passengers, your check-in luggage, the food and the airlines website. Lastly, I want to remark that airline service itself has never been too important to me. For me, flights are just like any other kind of transportation, they get me from one place to another. I like to spend the least time possible passing government checkpoints and to encounter as few troubles as possible, while being quite comfortable during my trip to the destination. Hence, as long as I have a clean toilet on the plane, nothing (aside from safety) else concerning the airlines service truly matters. Passengers on an Indonesia AirAsia flight from Australia to the holiday island of Bali described a panicked flight crew announcing an emergency and oxygen masks dropping from the ceiling after their airliner lost cabin air pressure and rapidly descended. Flight QZ535 returned safely on Sunday to the airport at Perth city where many of the 145 passengers spoke to media about the fear and confusion on board. The panic was escalated because of the behavior of staff who were screaming, looked tearful and shocked, passenger Clare Askew told reporters. Now, I get it, but we looked to them for reassurance and we didnt get any, we were more worried because of how panicked they were, Askew added. The budget Indonesian airline said in a statement the pilot turned back following a technical issue to ensure the safety of passengers. We commend our pilots for landing the aircraft safely and complying with standard operating procedure, AirAsia Group head of safety Captain Ling Liong Tien said. We are fully committed to the safety of our guests and crew and we will continue to ensure that we adhere to the highest safety standards, he added. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau, an accident investigator, said it was investigating the airliners depressurization at 34,000 feet (10,363 meters). The plane rapidly descended to around 10,000 feet (3,048 meters), an altitude to which cabins are pressurized and at which oxygen masks are no longer needed. Data from FlightRadar, a website which tracks flights globally using GPS, shows the plane descended 23,800 feet (7,250 meters) in the space of nine minutes. Perth Airport said in a statement that emergency services were on hand when the plane landed 78 minutes after it took off. A passenger named Leah told Nine Network television: I actually picked up my phone and sent a text message to my family, just hoping that they would get it. We were all pretty much saying goodbye to each other. It was really upsetting, she added. Passenger Mark Bailey told Seven Network television: Hostesses started screaming: Emergency, emergency. They just went hysterical. There was no real panic before that, then everyone panicked, Bailey added. Passenger Norman Pearce told Seven the flight crew said: Emergency. Crash positions and that was it. Nothing for about five minutes and then the oxygen fell down. Peter Gibson, spokesman for Civil Aviation Safety Authority, the Australian industry regulator, said the airline had been asked for information on what occurred on board. Our job as the regulator is to gather information on these sorts of events and review that to see whether were satisfied that everything was managed properly and determine whether we should dig any deeper, Gibson said. A Malaysia-based AirAsia X flight from Perth to Kuala Lumpur turned back in June after one of the Airbus 330s engines failed. An aircrew member was criticized for suggesting that passengers pray. In December 2014, an AirAsia flight from the Indonesian city of Surabaya to Singapore plunged into the Java Sea, killing all 162 passengers and crew on board. Indonesia AirAsia said passengers on the Sundays aborted flight had been transferred to the next available flight and provided with all necessary assistance. The safety of passengers and crew is our priority, the airline said. AirAsia apologizes to passengers for any inconvenience caused. Rod McGuirk, Canberra, AP The last two surviving leaders of a deadly siege in the southern Philippines, including a top Asian terror suspect, were killed yesterday in a push by thousands of troops to retake the last pocket of Marawi city still held by pro-Islamic State militants, top security officials said. Four military and police officials told The Associated Press that Isnilon Hapilon, who is listed among the FBIs most-wanted terror suspects, and Omarkhayam Maute were killed in a gunbattle and their bodies were found yesterday in Marawi. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not allowed to make a public announcement of the latest developments in Marawi, a mosque-studded center of Islamic faith in the south of the predominantly Roman Catholic nation. Defense Secretary Lorenzana later confirmed the militant deaths. Yes, they are confirmed dead, Lorenzana said, adding DNA tests would be done on the remains of the two militant leaders to pave the way for the payment of huge U.S. and Philippine bounties offered for the two. A top Malaysian militant, Mahmud bin Ahmad, who uses the nom de guerre Abu Handzalah and is a close associate of Hapilon, has not been found and was among the remaining militants being hunted by troops, he said. The U.S. State Department has offered a reward of up to USD5 million for Hapilon, whom Washington blames for ransom kidnappings of several Americans, one of whom was beheaded in 2001 in southern Basilan province. Hapilon had been indicted in the District of Columbia for his alleged involvement in terrorist acts against U.S. nationals and other foreigners. Military leaders had said last month that three leaders of the militants who began the siege of the lakeside city on May 23 were killed in the months of fighting but the two still alive were leading a final stand. More than 1,000 people have been killed in the Marawi violence, including more than 800 militants. Army Col. Romeo Brawner said Sunday about 40 militants were still fighting in a small hilly residential area by Lanao Lake, including 100 relatives of the gunmen and civilian hostages. On Saturday, troops attempted to rescue several hostages but only snatched a 16-year-old female captive because of intense militant fire, which wounded an army battalion commander and more than 20 other soldiers, Brawner said. The rescued hostage provided the crucial information that allowed troops to locate Hapilon and Maute in one building, Lorenzana said. Among the last batch of surviving fighters were about 10 foreigners, mostly Malaysians and Indonesians, but there were no immediate word about their condition, the military said. At least 17 hostages, including an infant and women, were rescued by troops in the scene of the battle, which the officials said may finally end this week. U.S.-trained army and police commandos crawled toward militant positions overnight and launched an assault. Several gunmen holed up in low- slung buildings and houses remained fighting and were holding hostages, delaying military efforts to finally end the siege. President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in the south, scene of decades- old Muslim separatist uprising, to deal with the siege, the worst crisis he has faced since rising to power in June last year. Duterte has gone to the battle area a number of times to rally the troops, once firing a sniper rifle toward militant position. He has vowed to have the militants killed to the last man because of the deaths and destruction wrought by the violence in Marawi. The Islamic citys 200,000 people, along with tens of thousands of others in nearby towns, abandoned their homes and businesses as the fighting began to rage and crammed evacuation shelters outside Marawi, sparking a humanitarian crisis. The siege has sparked fears that the Islamic State group may gain a foothold in Southeast Asia by influencing and providing funds to local militants as it suffers battle defeats in Syria and Iraq. The United States and Australia have deployed surveillance aircraft to help Filipino troops battling the Marawi attackers. Jim Gomez, Manila, AP A Florida man allegedly beat his girlfriends 17-month old son earlier this year and then pawned off the womans valuables while she was at the hospital with the dying boy, PEOPLE confirms. On Thursday, David Earl Vickers, 31, of Holmes Beach, Florida, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and aggravated child abuse in the August death of his girlfriends son, Luca Sholey, Holmes Beach police Detective Sgt. Brian Hall tells PEOPLE. Vickers is being held without bond at the Manatee County Jail in Florida. He was already in custody in an unrelated case when he was charged with murdering and abusing the child, says Hall. It is unclear if Vickers has entered a plea to those charges or if he has retained an attorney who could comment on his behalf. According to Hall, the murder and child abuse charges stem from an Aug. 21 incident, when Vickers called 911 because Luca was unresponsive and not breathing. The child was rushed to Blake Medical Center in nearby Bradenton, Florida, and later airlifted to John Hopkins All Childrens Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. Two days later, Luca was declared brain-dead from his injuries, Hall says. He died on Aug. 25. A hospital examination showed the boy had injuries that were consistent with child abuse, according to a Holmes Beach police statement. The police department and the Manatee County Sheriffs Office launched a more than month-long investigation into the childs death, revealing that Luca had allegedly been physically abused while in Vickers care on several occasions, Hall said in the statement. The boys organs were donated and helped save the lives of two girls and one man, the Bradenton Herald reports. Suspect Allegedly Stole from Boys Mom Vickers faces more than homicide and abuse charges in connection with Lucas Aug. 25 death, according to police. Two days later, on Aug. 27, the boys mother reported that her car stereo and laptop were missing, Hall says. He says that she allegedly found out that he [Vickers] had pawned the car stereo, so she suspected that the laptop was pawned as well. Story continues She confronted Vickers after finding a water bottle with the pawn shop logo on it in the car, Hall says. Police were later able to locate and recover the items. According to Hall, Vickers allegedly stole the stereo from Lucas moms car on Aug. 21, before Luca was taken to the hospital, and pawned it for $30. Two days later, while his girlfriend was at the hospital with her son, Vickers allegedly stole her laptop and charger and pawned them for $60. On Aug. 30, Vickers was charged with grand theft, two counts of dealing in stolen property and two counts of obtaining money from a pawnbroker by fraud, Hall says. He pleaded not guilty to those charges. Police had first arrested Vickers on Aug. 24, for driving without a license, Hall says. He was charged with possession of marijuana and driving with a revoked drivers license, to which he has pleaded not guilty. In May, Vickers was released from prison after serving almost three years in a four-year sentence for trafficking in stolen property and defrauding a pawnbroker, according to the Florida Department of Corrections. By Lisa Keddie and Robin Pomeroy LONDON (Reuters) - The London Film Festival closed on Sunday with a violent and profanity-laden dark comedy featuring Frances McDormand, as a small-town mother seeking justice for her murdered daughter, tipped for an Oscar nod. At the end of a movie fortnight overshadowed by a cascade of allegations against Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein, writer-director Martin McDonagh said he was happy to close the festival with "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing", calling it "a proper cool film" with a woman at its heart. "I mostly wanted to write a really strong female lead for a film so I came up with this idea of a very angry mother who goes to war with her local police department," McDonagh told Reuters on the red carpet in London's Leicester Square. "Once I thought that Frances would be the perfect person for it, it wrote itself almost." McDormand shot to global fame in "Fargo", another small-town black comedy, as a North Dakota police chief, a role that won her the Best Actress Oscar in 1997. In "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing", her character decides to confront the police chief, played by Woody Harrelson, by hiring advertising hoardings to berate him for failing to find the culprit who raped and murdered her daughter. "McDormands performance is every bit as commanding as her Oscar-winning work in 'Fargo' 21 years ago," Daily Telegraph critic Robbie Collin said in his five-star review of this "gut-twisting, cinder-black comedy" which won the top prize at the Toronto International Film Festival. Harrelson, who starred in Martin McDonagh's last movie, "Seven Psychopaths" said of the British-Irish filmmaker best know for "In Bruges": "He's turned into a real master of his craft and I think he has just gotten better each time." A day after the Academy of Motion Pictures expelled Weinstein over allegations of sexual harassment, some actors were more forthright than others over the scandal. Story continues Clarke Peters, who plays an African-American police chief in the small Missouri town beset by racial tensions in "Thee Billboards", said Hollywood "should go into a room and reassess their humanity". Abuse in the film industry was not limited to one individual, Peters said, adding: "We all get accosted in one way or the other." "They have this wonderful machine to communicate to all of these people, why use it in such a despicable way? The New York Times and The New Yorker have published allegations from a number of women that Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them in incidents dating back to the 1980s, including three who said they had been raped. Reuters has been unable to independently confirm any of the allegations. Weinstein, 65, has denied having non-consensual sex with anyone. (Writing by Robin Pomeroy; Editing by Richard Balmforth) The 'Game of Thrones' star shares her experiences with the Hollywood producer. Lena Headey is recalling her encounters with Harvey Weinstein and how uncomfortable the Hollywood producer made her feel when they first met. The Game of Thrones star recounted in a series of tweets posted on Tuesday that she first met Weinstein at the 2005 Venice Film Festival, where they were screening her film, The Brothers Grimm, claiming the producer asked her to take a stroll. "I walked down with him and he stopped and made some suggestive comment, a gesture, I just laughed it off," Headey, 44, wrote, also alleging that she was "subjected to endless bullying by director Terry Gilliam." "I was genuinely shocked. I remember thinking, Its got to be a joke,'" she added. She then suggested that they go back and grab a drink with the people they came with, noting that since the alleged incident she "was never in any other Miramax film." RELATED: There's 'Not a Chance in Hell' Georgina Chapman Will Take Harvey Weinstein Back, Source Says Headey says the next time she encountered Weinstein was "years later" in Los Angeles. "I had always carried the thought that he'd never try anything with me again," Headey continued. "Not after Id laughed and said, Never in a million years. I believed that he respected my boundary and maybe wanted to talk about potential work. RELATED: Kate Winslet Says She Purposely Didn't Thank Harvey Weinstein in Oscars Acceptance Speech Headey claims they met for breakfast and began talking business until he "asked me a few questions about the state of my love life," adding that she changed the conversation back to "something less personal." According to the actress, Weinstein invited her up to his hotel and she shifted into high alert. "I said to Harvey, 'Im not interested in anything other than work. Please dont think I got in here with you for any other reason, nothing is going to happen,' I said. I dont know what possessed me to speak out at that moment, only that I had such a strong sense of 'dont come near me,'" she claims. Story continues RELATED: Lysette Anthony Accuses Harvey Weinstein of Rape, London Police Investigating Multiple Claims He was silent after I spoke, furious, Headey continued, alleging that Weinstein got visibly upset and, after his key card for his room didnt work, took her downstairs by grabbing and holding tightly to the back of my arm. Headey claims that Weinstein whispered in her ear to not tell anyone about their encounter. "Not your manager, not your agent," she wrote. "I got into my car and I cried." RELATED: James Corden Apologizes for Harvey Weinstein Jokes at amfAR Gala: 'Sexual Assault Is No Laughing Matter' Earlier this week, Kate Winslet also spoke out against Weinstein. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, the Titanic star revealed she intentionally did not thank the producer while accepting her Oscar in 2009 for her performance in The Reader. Hear what she had to say in the video below. Watch Entertainment Tonight on Yahoo View. Related Articles Big Bang Theory star Mayim Bialik has responded to backlash to an editorial she penned about sexual harassment in the wake of allegations of assault and harassment against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. The actress wrote an op-ed titled Being Feminist in Harvey Weinsteins World, which was published by the New York Timeson Friday. In it, she discussed how she had not experienced being invited to hotel rooms by powerful industry executives -- something several actresses have alleged Weinstein did before acting inappropriately with them. Those of us in Hollywood who dont represent an impossible standard of beauty have the luxury of being overlooked and, in many cases, ignored by men of power unless we can make them money, she explained. She then noted that she has never condoned anyone calling her baby or wanting hugs on set, and that she makes choices about her clothing and behavior to make herself less prone to harassment. Woody Allen Says He Feels 'Sad' for Both Harvey Weinstein And His Accusers I still make choices every day as a 41-year-old actress that I think of as self-protecting and wise, she wrote. I have decided that my sexual self is best reserved for private situations with those I am most intimate with. I dress modestly. I dont act flirtatiously with men as a policy. However, the piece attracted some criticism, with readers accusing Bialik of implying that women may be to blame for being harassed because of the way they dress. I have to say I was dressed non provocatively as a 12 year old when men on the street masturbated at me, actress Patricia Arquette responded to Bialik. It's not clothing. NEWS: 'Saturday Night Live' Takes Aim At Harvey Weinstein Scandal, Pulls No Punches With Biting Commentary Taking to Twitter on Sunday, she explained that her words had been taken out of context by some readers. Story continues Im being told that my N.Y. Times piece resonated with so many and I am beyond grateful for all the feedback, she wrote. I also see a bunch of people have taken my words out of context of the Hollywood machine and twisted them to imply that God forbid I would blame a woman for her assault based on her clothing or behavior. Anyone who knows me and my feminism know thats absurd and not at all what this piece was about, she continued. Its so sad how vicious people are being when I basically live to make things better for women. Bialik also announced that she will be doing a Facebook live session with the New York Times on Monday to discuss the matter further. NEWS: Harvey Weinstein Expelled From Motion Picture Academy See more on the allegations against Weinstein in the video below. Watch Entertainment Tonight on Yahoo View. Related Articles Photo credit: Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved From Esquire John McCain has faced a journey of his own in the Age of Trump. It began in 2015, when candidate Donald Trump mocked McCain's military service in Vietnam. That was a period that saw McCain serve multiple years, enduring torture, as a prisoner of war while Trump faced his "personal Vietnam" trying to avoid sexually transmitted diseases in 1970s New York. More recently, in July, McCain was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer, and has been undergoing treatment ever since. But, based on a speech McCain gave Monday on being honored with the Liberty Medal by the National Constitution Center, it seems that what happened in between affected the Arizona senator most deeply. In stirring remarks after he was introduced by former Vice President Joe Biden, McCain made thinly veiled reference to the politics of the Trumpian far right - and went on the attack. He decried the rise of "half-baked, spurious nationalism," and the drive among some to see the United States abandon its role as a leader on the world stage. He seemed to characterize both sides of the Trump appeal as fundamentally unpatriotic. Passionate speech from John McCain, who slams 'spurious nationalism': "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil." (via ABC) pic.twitter.com/oP14ra9fqK - Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) October 17, 2017 Now, there are more questions about American leadership, and America's adherence to its own values, than McCain is willing to confront. "We are the custodians of those ideals at home, and their champion abroad," he said. But the citizens of Nicaragua or Laos or Cambodia might ask which ideals we were championing when we intervened within their borders through the years. The Yemenis might ask now. And many citizens of color, women, and LGBT citizens here at home would question whether we have done enough to champion them here. The Republican Party of which McCain has been a defining part in the modern era (voting the party line the vast majority of the time) has flirted for decades with the forces of xenophobia and ethnonationalism that fueled Trump's rise. The Dear Leader did not appear from the ether, and he does not exist in a vacuum. After all, his brand of politics still enjoys the support of 79 percent of Republican voters. Story continues Still, McCain's unequivocal rejection of the rhetoric of "blood and soil" was refreshing in an age of spineless equivocation and outright lies. That slogan was one of the calling cards of the white supremacists who came to gather, armed, in Charlottesville this summer - an event that saw one white supremacist murder an anti-racist protester with his car. McCain hinted at something that stirred up so much anger among Americans watching those scenes: that our fathers and grandfathers did not travel across the world to fight the Nazis just so they could appear here at home among some entitled, "disaffected" little white men. "To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems, is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history." The United States is not a nation for any one race or ethnicity. In fact, that's a completely incoherent claim considering the melting pot - even among different European backgrounds - that the country has always been. It is a nation for anyone willing to come here, work hard, and live by the principles laid out in its founding documents. Beyond that, McCain remains a ceaseless advocate for American moral leadership in the world. While we have not always lived up to that mantle, it must be our identity as a nation to constantly strive to do so. While McCain has never come to grips with the ugly side of American Empire, his call for American participation in an increasingly interconnected world is not just a moral call-to-arms, but an acknowledgement that there is no withdrawing from a globalized world. Hopefully, our future interventions will involve fewer bombs. The only choice for a moral nation as rich and powerful as the United States is to forge a path that makes the lives of citizens at home, and other human beings abroad, better. Otherwise, we won't be the first empire to fall. [editoriallinks id='fcdec05b-5c19-45c1-b662-d373163b90f1'][/editoriallinks] You Might Also Like Morning Joe hosts spent some time in their first hour Monday discussing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Puerto Rico and in the process blasted President Donald Trump for what they said was his inadequate response to the impact from Hurricane Maria. Because its Americans on an island in Puerto Rico that Donald Trump is not focused on or interested in, hes actually insulting them and threatening to take away support, Joe Scarborough said. This is a national disgrace and this is a national shame. Also Read: 'Morning Joe' Blasts 'SNL' and Lorne Michaels: 'People Have to Stop Protecting Harvey Weinstein' The former GOP congressman and frequent Trump critic insisted that the presidents response would be different had the damages from Hurricane Maria struck somewhere on the U.S. mainland. If this were in the suburbs of Dallas, Texas, if this was happening in Mountainbook, Alabama, if this was happening in the northern part of Atlanta, oh my God, we would have an operation going on there that would make D-Day look like a spring picnic, he said. Since the U.S. territory was rocked by a direct hit from Hurricane Maria earlier this month, Trumps commitment to the island has been widely derided. Also Read: Trump Subpoenaed by Former 'Apprentice' Contestant Over Sexual Harassment Allegations While he did visit the afflicted territoryand promised federal assistance, he has also sent a series of accusatory tweets, seemingly blaming the U.S. citizens on Puerto Rico for their own problems. He has also publicly feuded with the mayor of San Juan. The segment ended with Scarborough calling for viewers to contribute to the aid agency, Americare. Related stories from TheWrap: 'Morning Joe' Guest Compares Donald Trump to Harvey Weinstein: 'There Are a Lot of Parallels' (Video) 'Morning Joe' Again Floats 25th Amendment Option to Remove Trump From Office (Video) 'Morning Joe' Floats Removing Trump From Office: 'There's Something Called the 25th Amendment' (Video) 'Morning Joe' Blasts 'SNL' and Lorne Michaels: 'People Have to Stop Protecting Harvey Weinstein' A years-old clip of actor Corey Feldman on The View has resurfaced in the wake of the sexual misconduct allegations against Harvey Weinstein, and people on Twitter are hailing Feldman for spotting the problem long before anyone else. There are people that were the people that did this to both me and Corey that are still working, theyre still out there, and that are some of the richest most powerful people in this business, Feldman says in the 2013 clip. And they do not want me saying what I am saying right now. Are you saying they are pedophiles and that they are still in this business? then-host Barbara Walters asked. Yes, Feldman replied. Also Read:Watch Corey Feldman Knock His Own Tooth Out in Concert (Video) Feldman later said in the video that parents who want to put their children in the industry should do so carefully, without naivete. Youre damaging an entire industry, Walters told Feldman. TheWrap reached out to Walters rep for comment and did not immediately hear back. After the video resurfaced over the weekend, Feldman tweeted clarification that the man who sexually abused him as a child was not Weinstein. HOWEVER 4 THE RECORD I WOULD LIKE 2 SAY NO HARVEY WEINSTEIN WAS NOT THE MAN WHO MOLESTED ME OR MY FORMER ACTING PARTNER. OBVIOUSLY PEDOS Corey Feldman (@Corey_Feldman) October 13, 2017 Also Read:Carrie Fisher Tried to Save Corey Feldman From Drug Addiction Watch the 2013 The View clip above, and see reactions below. Corey you have been vindicated, and this is just the tip of the iceberg-you spoke truth when nobody else would! Such courage!(((HUGS))) American Pride (@ElisaYoder) October 13, 2017 Story continues You were the first person I thought of when the HW article hit & people started telling their stories. Thank you for always speaking out ???? MadameSoybean (@MadameSoybean) October 15, 2017 I remember this & how poorly Feldman was treated for having the guts to come forward. Shame on those who bullied him & ignored the problem. Make no mistake, #HarveyWeinstein is a Monster. So are those who tried to wreck Feldmans acting career. https://t.co/ybbiNqgA3W Bitchkitty (@sweet_n_sosassy) October 15, 2017 I saw that interview years ago. My heart went out to you then, and my first instinct was hug you then find the pervert and hurt him. What you did took courage, and you have never backed down. Carolyn Ricker (@ricker_carolyn) October 15, 2017 @Corey_Feldman Hero of mine since I was a kid. Just saw that interview again, you had it spot on and I hope the world knows the truth now James MacGregor (@Magsyboy) October 15, 2017 @Corey_Feldman been reading about everything. No one listened to you back then. I hope you're okay now. Be safe okay. James Radke (@_WhoreCrux_) October 15, 2017 Also Read: Kate Winslet Glad She Never Has to 'Deal With Harvey Weinstein Again as Long as I Live' You are a real Hero. Thx Bro Edwatd Cheeks (@cheeks_edwatd) October 15, 2017 @Corey_Feldman Thank you for standing up for whats right in this increasingly toxic world. We need more men like you pushing back #realhero m.a.r.k.13 (@glassmassacre) October 15, 2017 @Corey_Feldman is a true victim. I always believed him. Lots of predators in Hollywood, hopefully a big name perv gets arrested. @LAPDHQ m (@marisal001) October 15, 2017 Im glad that this is finally being taken seriously. I pray that real action is taken & that all who have suffered find healing. God bless???????? NaturallyNatalia (@natural_natalia) October 15, 2017 Related stories from TheWrap: Watch Corey Feldman Knock His Own Tooth Out in Concert (Video) Carrie Fisher Tried to Save Corey Feldman From Drug Addiction Corey Feldman Gets Engaged to Avoid Girlfriend's Deportation Under Trump Corey Feldman Apologizes for Dropping the American Flag During 'Today' Show Performance Based in the Spanish capital Madrid, Taleb Rifai is the current Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), having been unanimously elected to the position in 2010 and reaffirmed in 2014. Selected as a keynote speaker at this years China-centric Global Tourism and Economy Forum (GTEF), Rifai gave a presentation yesterday titled A Journey Well-Traveled. Remarking on the latest wave of intrepid Chinese tourists, who are willing to travel more extensively than ever before, the high-ranking United Nations official said that he regards China as one of the most important countries for tourism today. Not only has Chinese tourism contributed to the global economy, but I see [Chinese] tourism as a political and social tool for promoting China in the world today, he said, alluding to the people-to-people exchanges promoted under state-sponsored programs like the Belt and Road Initiative. In an interview with local and international media, Rifai said that China is demonstrating how seriously it takes tourism and this provides fertile ground for the GTEF to become a major calendar event in the global tourism sector. How is the Global Tourism and Economy Forum developing as a platform for studying tourism? Taleb Rifai (TR) This forum is an example of the success of tourism on the ground [in China]. I think this forum will become one of the most important [platforms] for tourism [discussion] in the world. After only six years [of GTEF], you can already see the results. There are forums that are now 30 or 40 years old and they have not accomplished half of what has been accomplished here. What is making this possible? TR There is a need today for the world to hear what China has to say about tourism. We know that most of these meetings used to take place in Europe and North America. [But] the establishment of this forum has turned the equation around. There is now a need in the world to come to China and discuss issues sincerely. It tells the world: You want to know, you want to learn, you want to discuss? You have to come here to us. And the world has responded in an extremely positive way. Do you expect anything on the tourism industry to emerge from Chinas Party Congress this week? TR I am perhaps not the best person to comment on this, but I hope that this conference will continue to strengthen the relationship China has with the tourism industry. China is one of the most serious countries in the world when it comes to tourism. The problem that we normally have with tourism is that governments dont take it seriously. China takes it very seriously and thats why it is benefitting from it. Can terrorism and security issues be considered a threat to the development of the global tourism industry? TR The UNWTO has identified three major threats: safety and security, technological disruption and sustainability. In terms of safety and security, we recognize that this is a major challenge, but not one that is insurmountable. We should not approach safety and security by closing borders, or imposing travel bans or building walls. That does not help; actually that is surrendering to the agenda of the terrorists, who are trying to make us mistrust and hate each other. Travel must be safe and secure and this is a major challenge, but we know it can be because it has been done in many situations [before]. A seriously worrying new hashtag celebrating extreme thinness is sweeping social media. Teenage girls battling eating disorders are avoiding an online ban on pictures tagged thinspiration by searching for even more damaging pictures of bonespiration, a new study has found. Research by the University of Exeter and published in the Journal of Eating Disorders has found that hundreds of young women are using Instagram and Twitter to search for and praise anorexic bodies using the hashtag bonespiration. The hashtag bonespiration has been sweeping social media. [Photo: Pexels] Catherine Talbot, a psychologist at Exeter University Medical School, and her team analyzed 734 images that used the hashtag and found that just over a quarter contained protruding hip bones, 2 percent showed protruding ribs, and just over a fifth (22 percent) collarbones, while 6 percent showed the spine. Back in 2012, social media sites banned the use of certain hashtags, such as thinspiration and thinspo that could be seen as promoting eating disorders. But users of the sites have found a way to work round the ban by varying the hashtags used, and the research team revealed they had discovered 140,000 images on Instagram linked to bonespiration. Commenting on the findings, research leader Talbot said: Anorexia and extreme weight loss is a serious social and medical problem. To tackle this social contagion we need to be aware of the social media platforms being used by young people mainly girls and young women which is encouraging extreme weight loss. This behavior could seriously damage their psychological and physical health. Teenagers need to be taught about positive body image in schools, and we need to build resilience. Girls are using social media to search for the hashtag bonespiration. [Photo: Pexels] The concern about the power of these images has previously been highlighted by a study carried out in January by researchers at the University of Adelaide in Australia. The research found that women posting fitspiration posts on Instagram are more likely to be at risk of eating disorders. Story continues Bonespiration certainly isnt the only social media hashtag to spark concern. First came the thigh gap, which was swiftly followed by the bikini bridge and the A4 paper challenge. Most recently, ribcage bragging saw a whole host of celebrities and social media influencers taking to their feeds to share images of their proudly protruding ribcages. Thankfully, not all social media body trends are on the scary side, and last year we reported on the #MermaidThighs trend, which encourages women to embrace their natural body shape, touching thighs and all. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Heres how hotel security might change after the Las Vegas mass shooting In the past five years alone, dozens of spaces that were once considered safe have been transformed into sites of massacres; benign public locations have become mass graves. Movie theaters, concert halls, offices, college classrooms, cafes, subway cars, airports, and Christmas markets have been added to an ever growing list that includes even an elementary school. Since the attack on an outdoor music festival in Las Vegas that killed more than 50 people and left hundreds wounded, experts have been rethinking the security around the latest staging area of a mass shooting: hotels. An inviting hotel makes travelers feel like they have a home away from home, a safe place to relax and explore a new destination. With this latest attempt, travelers grew fearful not only that hotels were less safe than previously thought, but that an overhaul of their security systems would substantially alter the joys of a hotel stay. When something like this happens it shakes up the entire system, Michael McCall, a professor of hospitality business for Michigan State University, told Travel + Leisure. After the attack, several Las Vegas-area hotels began scanning guests bags using handheld wands as a short-term solution. Where additional security and screening might work as a good first response, these methods often fall by the wayside in large hotels that cant afford expensive screening systems or dont want to make their guests feel as if theyre back in a TSA line. Related article: Pregnant woman biked away from California wildfire to save her children Hotel industry experts instead have increasingly turned toward more unusual strategies of protecting guests, including training staff to recognize suspicious behavior and even using algorithms to spot patterns of bizarre behavior that a human might miss. Above all, whether it means a small change to staff training or a big change to operations, the Las Vegas shooting has signaled a turning point in the way hotels will need to think about safety. Story continues Restricted access and more advanced techniques are nothing new in some parts of the world, and international hotels have long implemented much stricter security measures. King David Hotel in Jerusalem for instance has windows that can withstand rocket fire, technology to scans for bombs, and a ventilation system built to fight against poison gas attacks. After the Las Vegas attacks, in which Stephen Paddock fired on the crowd from his 32nd floor hotel room using an arsenal containing nearly two dozen weapons, onlookers were quick to question how the gunman was able to transport and store such a large number of powerful weapons without anyone noticing. Housekeeping staff are not trained to inspect guests belongings and in fact are discouraged from disturbing suitcases and some Las Vegas hoteliers pointed out that in a city with a variety of conventions and performances, a guest with a large amount of luggage would not have necessarily thrown up a red flag. Related article: Yellowstones supervolcano could spew ash across the entire U.S. Civilians and experts alike soon floated the idea of TSA-style baggage screening, but in a hotel the size of Mandalay Bay, with more than 3,000 rooms, the cost and time investment would be enormous. Theres always this tendency to expand the screening area. Thats fine, but at some point the screening area has to stop, and theres going to be a public area at some point. Really the question is: when does that stop? said Jeffrey Price, an expert in aviation security at Metropolitan State University of Denver. A simpler solution might be the addition of more security forces in hotels, or greater cooperation between hotels and law enforcement, Price suggested. The mere presence of additional security can often serve as a deterrent to crime, and while it might not have been successful in preventing the attack in Las Vegas, a greater security presence could have made it possible to respond to the shooter more rapidly. A heavier security presence could also benefit outdoor venues. Where concert security might not have the capacity to screen every nearby building, a venue could coordinate with local police to identify potential targets or even possible snipers nests, Price said. In addition to ramping up security, hotels could also rely more heavily on the staff they already have, by training them to recognize certain types of behavior that might suggest planned violence. Connecticut implemented a law earlier this year that requires all hotel employees to receive training on how to spot signs of human trafficking, and training is issued in several high-end hotels in Mexico as well. While no data was immediately available on how effective that scheme has been, anecdotal evidence supports the idea. In an incident earlier this year, evidence provided by a hotel maid led to the conviction of a man who was engaging in sex trafficking and assault. Related article: Hurricane Ophelia sets a rare path for Ireland and could be the worst storm there in decades (video) In the case of a potential shooter or terrorist, hotel workers might be on the lookout for someone who books multiple rooms on the same floor (as in a human trafficking case), requests a very specific type of room, brings an unusual amount of luggage, or leaves the do not disturb sign on their door for more then 24 hours. With the hubbub of a busy hotel that might see hundreds if not thousands of guests a day, the average housekeeper or desk attendant might be unable to notice all of those things, however. Unlike airports where workers can be trained to notice specific signs, the baseline of normal behavior in a hotel is much different. People do all sorts of weird things in hotel rooms, so its not as easy to identify a baseline that you can then identify deviations from, Price said. Thats where computer modeling might come in. Expert of hospitality law at the Universty of Houston in Texas, Steven Barth, suggested predictive analytics, a type of data analysis that notices all of the different slightly odd behaviors that a hotel worker might shrug off and flags when a guest is exhibiting a series of strange behaviors. These new systems would work in tandem with a more integrated overall approach to safety. So long as assault weapons remain prevalent and readily available, people will need to reevaluate both how they understand hotel security and how they assess their personal security in any given scenario. We are going to have to start designing and building hotels with safety and security in mind not just fire safety, he said. Price echoed the example of fire safety, noting that most of what can be done to protect oneself from an active shooter happens long before any threat occurs. As long-term solutions are being implemented, members of the public can take small steps to regain some of their power. Identify your exits, identify your paths to get there, know where theres areas of cover and concealment if you have to run there, and be able to know a little bit about first aid if you get hit, he said. I know thats not what people want to hear. They want to hear that theres a solution that the government is going to come up with that makes someone 100 percent safe. Unfortunately, life is a risk sport. This article originally appeared in Travelandleisure.com Laura Dern says sexual harassment seemed like a prerequisite to working in Hollywood Laura Dern says she started her career in Hollywood with eyes wide open, but still dealt with sexual harassment. I have not spoken to one person, nor will you tonight, who hasnt had an experience with sexual harassment in the work place, Dern told reporters on Elles Women in Hollywood red carpet on Monday night. It seemed as if it was supposed to be a prerequisite. Continued the actress, I was one of the lucky few who was raised by an actress, I had a godmother who was an actress, and a father who was an actor. So I was told all the stories, so I knew with eyes wide open what should be unacceptable. And it was still terrifying and I still got bullied and still experienced trauma. Dern whose father is Bruce Dern and mother is Diane Ladd said that if her experience was the best version, then theres a lot of work to do. The actress is one of thousands of women to speak out about their experiences with sexual misconduct in the wake of the scandal surrounding movie producer Harvey Weinstein. Related article: The Harvey Weinstein scandal: All of the Hollywood figures who have spoken out against movie mogul Also on the red carpet at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills on Monday night, Derns Big Little Lies castmate Reese Witherspoon revealed that she was sexually assaulted by a director at age 16. I wish that I could tell you that was an isolated incident in my career, but sadly it wasnt, said Witherspoon. Ive had multiple experiences of harassment and sexual assault and I dont speak about them very often. She continued, But after hearing all the stories these past few days and hearing these brave women speak up tonight about things that were kind of told to sweep under the rug and not to talk about, its made me want to speak up and speak up loudly because I actually felt less alone this week than I have ever felt in my entire career. Both Derns and Witherspoons comments come after dozens of women came forward in recent weeks to accuse Weinstein of sexual misconduct including Cara Delevingne, Ashley Judd, and Angelina Jolie. Eight women spoke out against Weinstein in a bombshell New York Times report accusing the movie mogul of inappropriate behavior. The paper also reported that Weinstein reached private settlements with eight women, including actress Rose McGowan. Story continues In a 10 month investigation, 13 women told me Harvey Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them. 3 allege rape: https://t.co/7XKS6CotVP Ronan Farrow (@RonanFarrow) October 10, 2017 Related article: Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Lawrence and 20 more stars share powerful stories about sexism in Hollywood Following the initial report, Weinstein said in a statement that he was working with therapists and planned to deal with this issue head-on. He has since been fired from his powerhouse studio, The Weinstein Company, and his wife, Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman, has announced shes leaving him. In addition, the The New Yorker revealed among 13 different womens accounts of alleged sexual harassment, assault or rape that Weinstein allegedly forcibly performed oral sex on Italian actress Asia Argento two decades ago. In response to the lengthy accusations made against the mogul, a spokesperson for Weinstein said, Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr. Weinstein. This article originally appeared in People.com Tom Petty was honored and laid to rest at a private ceremony in Pacific Palisades, California Monday. Tom Petty was honored at a private service at the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades, California Monday, People reports. Petty died October 2nd at the age of 66 after going into cardiac arrest. Friends and family gathered at the Fellowship Lake Shrine to honor the musician, though it's unclear who spoke or was in attendance. Petty's daughter, AnnaKim Violette Petty, posted several pictures from the service on Instagram, including one with an old portrait of Petty and some flowers, captioned with lyrics from his song, "The Dark of the Sun." South Korean and U.S. troops began five days of naval drills yesterday after North Korea renewed its threat to fire missiles near the American territory of Guam. The South Korean and U.S. militaries regularly conduct joint exercises, often enraging North Korea, which views such training as an invasion rehearsal. The latest drills in the waters off the Korean Peninsula come amid fears of a possible military clash following the exchanges of insults and fierce rhetoric between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The drills involve fighter jets, helicopters and 40 naval ships and submarines from the allies, including the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, according to South Koreas navy. Spokesman Jang Wook told reporters the drills are aimed at practicing how to respond to a potential naval provocation by North Korea and improving the allies combined operational capability. The drills were to include live-fire exercises by naval ships and aircraft and anti-submarine training, but South Koreas military didnt release any photos or video. In a possible show of force against North Korea, the United States also sent four advanced fighter jets two F-22s and two F-35s for an air show and exhibition in Seoul that are to begin today. Last week, the United States flew two B-1B supersonic bombers from its air base in Guam to South Korea to try to demonstrate its power against any North Korean aggression. North Korea didnt immediately respond to the start of the drills. On Friday, the Norths foreign ministry accused the United States of provoking the country by mobilizing the aircraft carrier and other war assets near the peninsula. Such military acts compel [North Korea] to take military counteraction, said Kim Kwang Hak, a researcher at the Institute for American Studies at the ministry. We have already warned several times that we will take counteractions for self-defense, including a salvo of missiles into waters near the U.S. territory of Guam. In August, North Korea issued a similar threat, saying its military had presented Kim Jong Un with plans to launch intermediate-range missiles to create enveloping fire near Guam, a key U.S. military hub in the Pacific. The North has yet to carry out its threat. Lobbing missiles close to Guam would be deeply provocative for the United States, and a miscalculation on either side could lead to a military conflict. Under Kims leadership, North Korea has been accelerating its efforts to bolster its weapons arsenals and acquire the capability to fire nuclear missiles at any target in the U.S. mainland. The North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test in September and test-launched two intercontinental ballistic missiles in July. AP The U.S. News Short List, separate from our overall rankings, is a regular series that magnifies individual data points in hopes of providing students and parents a way to find which undergraduate or graduate programs excel or have room to grow in specific areas. Be sure to explore The Short List: College, The Short List: Grad School and The Short List: Online Programs to find data that matter to you in your college or grad school search. For some college students, class size matters. Smaller classes, for instance, can help ensure that professors provide individualized attention. At the same time, students aren't among hundreds of others in a crowded lecture hall and will have to prepare to actively participate in classroom discussions. [Learn more about applying to college.] Among the 294 ranked National Universities that submitted these data to U.S. News in an annual survey, an average of 45.8 percent of courses offered in fall 2016 had fewer than 20 students. National Universities are institutions that offer a range of undergraduate programs as well as master's and doctoral degrees. For the 10 schools with the greatest proportion of classes with fewer than 20 students, the average figure was much higher: 81 percent. The New School in New York tops the list, with 90.5 percent of fall 2016 courses having fewer than 20 students. The university's total undergraduate enrollment at the time was 7,014. [Discover 10 reasons to go to a small college.] A few of the ranked colleges on the list are also among the top ranked National Universities: Yale University in Connecticut and the University of Chicago, both tied at No. 3; Columbia University in New York, in a tie at No. 5; and Northwestern University in Illinois, tied for No. 11. Below are the 10 National Universities that had the highest percentage of fall 2016 classes with fewer than 20 students. Unranked schools, which did not meet certain criteria required by U.S. News to be numerically ranked, were not considered for this report. Story continues * RNP denotes an institution that is ranked in the bottom one-fourth of its ranking category. U.S. News calculates a rank for the school but has decided not to publish it. Don't see your school in the top 10? Access the U.S. News College Compass to find class size data, complete rankings and much more. Sign up for the U.S. News Extra Help: College Admissions free email newsletter to receive expert advice twice a month. U.S. News surveyed more than 1,800 colleges and universities for our 2017 survey of undergraduate programs. Schools self-reported myriad data regarding their academic programs and the makeup of their student body, among other areas, making U.S. News' data the most accurate and detailed collection of college facts and figures of its kind. While U.S. News uses much of this survey data to rank schools for our annual Best Colleges rankings, the data can also be useful when examined on a smaller scale. U.S. News will now produce lists of data, separate from the overall rankings, meant to provide students and parents a means to find which schools excel, or have room to grow, in specific areas that are important to them. While the data come from the schools themselves, these lists are not related to, and have no influence over, U.S. News' rankings of Best Colleges, Best Graduate Schools or Best Online Programs. The class size data above are correct as of Oct. 17, 2017. Jordan Friedman is an online education editor at U.S. News. You can follow him on Twitter or email him at jfriedman@usnews.com. A 3-year-old girl is dead after falling into an Alabama ice cream parlors grease trap and drowning in the sludge. Sadie Grace Andrews was playing with her siblings outside Brusters Real Ice Cream in Auburn on Saturday afternoon when the accident happened, according to AL.com. The 6-foot-deep grease trap wasnt locked or secured, Lee County Coroner Bill Harris told the website. It opened when Sadie stepped onto its lid, he said, and the trap closed behind her when she fell in. The girl was missing for five to 10 minutes before she was found, according to the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer. Family members and employees of the ice cream business tried to revive her with CPR, but she was unresponsive. No foul play is suspected, according to the coroner. The ice cream parlor posted a condolence note to the family on its Facebook page. An employee said the business will be closed Wednesday, the day of Sadies funeral, out of respect for the family. Brusters Ice Cream CEO Jim Sehene expressed his sympathies after the incident. As a father and grandfather myself, I cannot imagine the grief the family is going through, Sahene told AL.com. We can only hope that they find some comfort in the outpouring of support we have seen since this tragedy happened. Sehene said the company has asked all franchises to inspect grease traps as a precaution. (Photo: Inside Edition) Sadies mother, Corrie Andrews, told AL.com that Sadie was outgoing and loved singing Elvis songs with her father. Its really quiet around here without her today, Corrie said. She was the life of the party. Sadies uncle, Chad Vermillion, is raising money for funeral expenses through a YouCaring crowdfunding account. The account had nearly raised $16,500 by Tuesday afternoon. For additional details about the incident, head to AL.com. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. An 8-year-old girl fell to her death from a cruise ship on Saturday, police said. Police said the girl was on the Carnival Cruise Lines ship Carnival Glory which had docked at Port Miami when the incident happened. Read: Shaken Cruise Passengers Return to Land After Ship Was Battered By Storm: 'It Was Hell!' The girl fell from the ships interior atrium to a lower deck at around 8:15 a.m., according to the Miami-Dade Police Department. The girl was transported the child to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center, where she died, police said The police departments homicide unit is working with Carnival Cruise Lines to discover details of the incident, police said. "We understand that the child may have fallen 20 or so feet from a landing," Miami Fire-Rescue spokesman Capt. Ignatius Carroll said at a news conference Police have not identified the 8-year-old. Read: Boy Who Nearly Drowned in Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Pool Has Died Our most heartfelt care and concern is with the family at this very difficult time," Jennifer De La Cruz, vice president of corporate communications with Carnival, said in a statement. The ship was turned over to Carnival to resume normal operations, reports said Watch: Shocking New Details in Death of Woman on Cruise Ship Related Articles: The next step for Alphabet's Sidewalk Labs is making a 2,000 acre smart neighborhood in Toronto. Google Canada will relocate its headquarters to the newly created Quayside neighborhood along the Eastern Waterfront to serve as an anchor for the area, and will invest some $50 million in the first phase of planning and project testing, according to a press release. The entire project could cost as much as $1 billion, Wall Street Journal reports. TechCrunch writes that an additional $1.25 billion will come from Toronto itself. Prime minister Justin Trudeau said that the move is to make for "smarter, greener, more inclusive" cities that he hopes will expand across Toronto and eventually the globe. The plan is to revamp transportation and infrastructure, create affordable housing opportunities and establish "clear governance policies related to data protection and privacy." Sidewalk will do so by implementing autonomous transit lines, "climate-positive" energy systems with an eye toward sustainability. To ensure Toronto residents have a say in how Quayside is built out, there will be a series of town hall meetings starting November 1st. Given Toronto's tech and startup scene, it's any wonder why Google picked the Canadian city from a sea of proposals. A costume in the likeness of Holocaust victim Anne Frank has received so much backlash that at least one online retailer has pulled it from its website. The costume, on sale at HalloweenCostumes.com, featured a cheery young girl wearing a World War II-era dress, beret and bag. Twitter users picked up on the costume and quickly expressed their anger about it. Yeah this seems super uncool. You seen this @carlosgeADL ? pic.twitter.com/uhKS3g9b2J Jerod MacDonald-Evoy (@JerodMacEvoy) October 15, 2017 Holocaust denial poll Anne Frank Halloween costume Neo-nazi trip to FL Welcome to an America where the White House empowers anti-Semitism. Adam Best (@adamcbest) October 17, 2017 .@funcostumes Anne Frank? You have got to be joking, right? How in the world is this 'fun' ??? pic.twitter.com/CsWr7DV1wr Far Right Watch (@Far_Right_Watch) October 15, 2017 Totally speechless. Just been shown this ad for an Anne Frank costume for Halloween. @AnneFrankCenter you might want to have a word pic.twitter.com/mu0t4lvY62 Jude Habib (@JudeHabib) October 15, 2017 Carlos Galindo-Elvira, regional director of the Anti-Defamation Leagues Arizona office, summed up a lot of peoples feelings: Story continues There r better ways 2 commemorate Anne Frank. This is not one. We should not trivialize her memory as a costume. carlosgeADL (@carlosgeADL) October 16, 2017 For those unfamiliar with her story, Anne Frank was a 15-year-old German teenager who hid from the Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II and wrote a diary about her experiences in hiding. After being discovered by the Gestapo, Anne and her family were split up. In October 1944, she, along with her sister Margot, was taken to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Anne nearly survived the war, but succumbed to typhus sometime in March 1945. Bergen-Belsen was liberated by British troops the next month. Annes diary, The Diary of a Young Girl, was published posthumously. (Photo: Getty Images) The costume has since been pulled from the Fun.com-run website. Ross Walker Smith, a spokesman for the site, tweeted on Sunday that while the costume had been removed, the company sells costumes for many uses outside of the Halloween season, such as school projects and plays. He added: We apologize for any offense it has caused, as thats never our intention. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. A quick Google search reveals that the costume, and many others like it, are sold at other retailers online. One description for the same costume on CandyAppleCostumes.com says it was designed by a British company to represent the British children who were evacuated from London to the countryside during World War II, like the Pevensie children in the Narnia books. Also on HuffPost Stylish women (C) look to horses, 29 January 1939 Stylish women look at horses on January 29,1939 at Vincennes race course, a few months before the beginning of World War II. German Nazi Chancellor Adolf Hitler German Nazi Chancellor Adolf Hitler informs Czech President Emil Hacha of the imminent German invasion of Czechoslovakia on March 15, 1939 in Berlin. A picture dated 1939 shows German Nazi A picture dated 1939 shows German Nazi Chancellor and dictator Adolf Hitler with his companion Eva Braun talking to a baby held by a nun. AFP/Getty Images Picture dated on September 1939 shows German Picture dated September 1939 shows German troops entering Poland after a 'blitzkrieg' (lightning war) which swept into Poland on September 1, 1939. During german air raids on open belgium towns,this During German air raids on open Belgium towns, this picture shows refugees leaving the city during the bombing of the town May 19, 1940. AFP/Getty Images Queen Elizabeth (R) chats with a girl Queen Elizabeth chats with a girl on April 18, 1940 during visit to an ammunition factory somewhere in Midlands. Two young Dutch refugee girls arrive Two young Dutch refugee girls arrive in London by train on May 19, 1940 after fleeing the German Army offensive during WWII. This file picture taken on August 25, 1944 This file picture taken on August 25,1944 shows people gathering around a tank from French General Leclerc's 2nd Armored Division near Notre-Dame in Paris. US-born singer-entertainer poses during World War U.S.-born singer-entertainer Jospehine Baker poses during World War II in an undisclosed location in France as a sublieutenant in the Women's Auxiliary of the French Air Force. George Herbert Walker Bush is pictured in the cockpit George Herbert Walker Bush is pictured in the cockpit of his TBM Avenger during World War II. US-born singer-entertainer Josephine Baker poses US-born singer-entertainer Josephine Baker poses in France during World War II with unidentified children. Photo shows the house where Anne Frank Photo shows the house where Anne Frank lived in Amsterdam and where she hid with her parents to escape from Nazis between June 1942 and August 4, 1944. A young French girl clings to her mother A young French girl clings to her mother in May 1940 as French civilians flee the German Army offensive in the north of France during World War II. Charles de Gaulle (C) Charles de Gaulle (C), Chief of the French Free Forces, inspects the French colonial troops during his visit of a military base in Great Britain on January 24, 1941 during World War II. Picture taken in 1942 Picture taken in 1942 of Soviet soldiers during the battle of Volgograd. Operating a hand drill at Vultee-Nashville, a woman works on a "Vengeance" dive bomber. Woman aircraft worker, Vega Aircraft Corporation, Burbank, Calif. Shown checking electrical assemblies. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Democrat congressman Steve Cohen previously said he intended to introduce impeachment articles against the US President over his response to a violent rally in Charlottesville, Virginia: AP/Evan Vucci At least one Republican is considering lending their support to articles of impeachment against Donald Trump, a Democrat congressman has said. "I have one Republican that has said he is looking at it, he is considering it," Steve Cohen said on MSNBC Live with Alex Witt. I have other Republicans, just like Senator Bob Corker suggested, who have told me on a constant basis that they know this man is not balanced, he is not capable of continuing to lead us. Mr Cohen went on to say some Republicans will privately tell you, by their words and by their expressions, that they would like to see an end to the Trump administration and don't approve of what he's doing. He added: But, the Republican base is still supportive of Trump. Thats whos strong in their primaries, and politically, they cant come out and say it." Mr Cohen previously said he intended to introduce impeachment articles against the US President over his response to a violent rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. I have expressed great concerns about President Trumps ability to lead our country in the Resolution of No Confidence (HRes 456) that I introduced in July with 29 of my colleagues, Mr Cohen said in a statement. However, after the Presidents comments on Saturday, August 12 and again on Tuesday, August 15 in response to the horrific events in Charlottesville, I believe the President should be impeached and removed from office. It comes after the former US labour secretary said he had been told Republicans are waiting to pass their tax-reform bill before they move to impeach Mr Trump. Robert Reich said a former Republican senator told him Republicans are "just praying Trump doesn't do something really, really stupid before the tax bill." He said they went on to say Republicans "think Trump's nuts. Unfit. Dangerous." Thirty-four years after a black man was brutally killed in Georgia, police have arrested five people including two law enforcement officials in connection with his slaying. Bill Moore Sr., 58, and Frankie Gebhardt, 59, have been charged with murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery and concealing a body, according to the Spalding County Sheriffs Office. Lamar Bunn, a 32-year-old employee of the police department in Milner, Georgia, and his mother, Sandra Bunn, 58, are charged with obstruction. Gregory Huffman, a 47-year-old detention officer with the sheriffs department, is charged with obstruction and violation of oath of office. The body of Timothy Coggins, 23, was found on Oct. 9, 1983, in a grassy area of Sunnyside, a small town about 30 miles south of Atlanta. Frankie Gebhard, left, and Bill Moore Sr. have been charged with murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery and concealing a body. (Photo: Spalding County Sheriffs Department) Law enforcement authorities said they reopened the case in March after receiving new information about it. The authorities said Coggins death was caused by multiple forms of trauma, without providing more detail. There is some misinformation out there that his body was hanged, but his body was not hanged, Capt. Dwayne Jones of the sheriffs office told HuffPost. But we do feel as though there is a racial component, but I cannot release our reasoning for that. Sheriff Darrell Dix said investigators have no doubt the crime was racially motivated. Timothy Coggins niece, Heather Coggins, told HuffPost her family is extremely ecstatic about the arrests. Wed thought theyd forgotten and that he really didnt matter, she said. When we heard the news, we were just like, Wow, they didnt forget. Lamar Bunn, 32, Sandra Bunn, 58, and Gregory Huffman, 47, face charges in connection with the case. (Photo: Spalding County Sheriffs Department) Coggins activities prior to the discovery of his body have not yet been released. Authorities will only say his body was found about 10 miles from his home. Unfortunately, I cant release that because thats part of the integrity of the investigation, Jones said. Coggins niece said the condition of her uncles body necessitated a closed-casket funeral. Although he had a funeral, it wasnt exactly a memorial because of everything that happened and the uncertainty, she said. Story continues It was very difficult not knowing if they were ever going to come back and hurt our family, she said. Not knowing if they were our neighbors. Just the idea of not knowing. People were afraid. The body of Timothy Coggins was found on Oct. 9, 1983. (Photo: Heather Coggins) While she was just 6 years old at the time of her uncles death, Coggins said she holds dear the memories she has of him and the stories that family members have shared. Her mother, she said, was his sister one of four sisters and three brothers born to her grandparents. Whenever we were at my grandparents house you would pass his picture, she said. He was never forgotten by the family. He was an outgoing person, a joker, and a great dancer. Everyone who knew him knew how great of a dancer he was. He never met a stranger. Timothy Coggins parents, who both died in recent years, had suspicions about who was responsible, but were never able to prove anything, according to his niece. Although we grieved 34 years ago, the grieving process has started over again, she said. We still have a lot of unanswered questions, but now we can give him the memorial he deserves. People dont have to be afraid to come because theyre afraid someone can hurt him. Hell finally be able to rest in peace. Tips? Feedback? Send David Lohr an email or follow him on Twitter. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. Also on HuffPost El Dorado Jane Doe We know who killed her. But we still dont know her name. That is the enduring mystery that has left investigators stumped for more than two decades. Despite the passge in time, authorities beleive someone, somewhere, can still help solve the identity of the woman known as El Dorado Jane Doe. READ: We Know Who Killed Her. But 24 Years Later, We Still Dont Know Her Name Storyville Slayer Three decades ago, the melting pot of culture and tradition that makes up New Orleans was overshadowed by a cloud of evil. The historic metropolis that Louis Armstrong once dubbed the Land of Dreams had become a nightmare for the families of more than two dozen people who turned up dead in outlying swamps and bayous. READ: Detective Tries To Solve 25-Year-Old Serial Killer Cold Case. One Suspect Is A Cop. Eugene Hicks A womans quest to learn about her fathers 1983 murder uncovered mistakes that may have cost a retired Dallas Cowboys player his life. READ: How Police Failures May Have Allowed A Cocaine Cowboys Suspected Killer To Strike Again Deborah Lee Shelton And Victoria Lee Specials For 65 days in 1969, Marcia Shelton watched, waited and hoped against all odds that her missing 12-year-old daughter, Deborah Lee Shelton, would turn up safe and sound. Then, in December 2001, there was another tragedy as equally disturbing as the first -- the disappearance of her second daughter, 44-year-old Victoria Lee Specials. Marcia Shelton found herself left with the memories of two daughters, taken under mysterious circumstances three decades apart. Read More: Sisters Deborah Lee Shelton And Victoria Lee Specials Vanish 32 Years Apart Tamala Wells Tamala Wells, of Detroit, disappeared on Aug. 6, 2012. Her mother, Donna Wells-Davis, learned of her daughter's disappearance on Aug. 7, 2012, when she received a phone call from her granddaughter, who was then 6 years old. The little girl said that her mom, then 33, had gone out the previous night and never returned. The mystery deepened when the Pontiac that Wells had supposedly been driving was found abandoned just a few blocks from her home. In an interview with HuffPost, the father of Wells' daughter denied any involvement in Wells' disappearance, but he didn't deny how he feels about the mother of his child -- or about the child herself. "She gives me a headache," Rickey Tennant said. "[Wells] used to give me a headache, but I dealt with it, and I'm looking at it right now as 'one headache is better than two headaches.'" READ: Ex-Boyfriend Calls Missing Woman One Less 'Headache' Joy Hibbs On April 19, 1991, the body of 36-year-old Joy Hibbs was found inside her burned-out home in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania. According to retired Bristol Township Detective Lt. Richard Bilson, the scene inside the bedroom where Hibbs was found was horrific. "She was lying face-up on a mattress that was nothing but springs," Bilson told HuffPost. "Her body was black -- completely burnt beyond recognition. She looked like a mummy and the entire room was charred." Bilson said fire investigators initially thought Joy Hibbs was the tragic victim of a house fire. The following day, a coroner confirmed part of that theory -- her death was tragic, albeit no accident. "The coroner advised us she died before the fire started," Bilson said. "He located five stab wounds, to her neck and chest, and there was a computer cord wrapped around her neck. At that point, it became a homicide investigation." Read More: Pennsylvania Mom's Brutal Murder An Enduring Mystery Terry And Darleen Anderson In October 2005, an unknown intruder brutally murdered Terry and Darleen Anderson. The crime -- LaGrange County, Indiana's first double homicide -- shocked their rural community and left many deep emotional scars. Inside the couple's home, Darleen was found still dressed in her nightclothes, slumped over on the couch. A book was in her lap and a bowl of popcorn was sitting next to her. Someone had viciously attacked the 57-year-old woman while she sat relaxing inside her home. Outside, in a nearby pole barn, lay Darleen's husband of 25 years. Like his wife, the 59-year-old had been brutally bludgeoned to death. With few clues to follow, the case quickly went cold. Many questions still remain. READ: Who Killed Terry And Darleen Anderson? Neal King Neal Forrest King came to California to make his fortune in the burgeoning illegal marijuana trade. In 2013, the 24-year-old former Texan disappeared like a puff of smoke. March 26 was the last time Jeanette Tully, King's girlfriend of six years, saw him. "It's so painful, and I don't think the pain will ever go away," Tully told HuffPost at the time. "I'm 25, and I was ready to spend rest of my life with him. Our love was true, honest and pure." King's mother, Gayle King, described her son's disappearance as inexplicable. "Neal was a kind person and an amazing son," she said. "That's just how he was. He had strong family values. Family for him was everything." Read More: Marijuana Farmer Neal King Disappears Amid Strange Circumstances Brian Barton Punk rock musician Brian Barton was well on his way to success in 2005. The 25-year-old was in love, was a member of As Fate Would Have It -- a band quickly growing in popularity -- and was gearing up for his first music tour. To outsiders looking in, all the stars in Barton's universe appeared to be in alignment. However, appearances can be deceiving. When Barton disappeared prior to the start of the band's breakout music tour, the bizarre circumstances surrounding his disappearance pitted friends and bandmates against each other. Read More: Did Seattle Punk Rocker Brian Barton Stage His Own Disappearance? Judith Geurin Relatives of Judith Geurin last spoke with the 45-year-old mom in January 1991. Geurin's disappearance is rooted in events that transpired in July 1988, when her husband of 18 years, 57-year-old Joseph Geurin, died of a heart attack. According to family members, Joseph's death devastated her and shattered the family. The grief, they said, was so severe that her mom turned to alcohol for solace. By January 1989, Judith Geurin had collected more than $250,000 in life insurance and pension funds granted to her following her husband's death. She sold the family's four-bedroom, colonial-style house and took out a mortgage on a two-family duplex in nearby Troy. Geurin's children, then ages 21, 16, 13 and 11 -- moved into the duplex. However, unbeknownst to them until moving day, their mother had other plans. Instead of following her children, Geurin moved in with 27-year-old Curtis Pucci. In 1990, Geurin and Pucci moved some 200 miles southwest of Albany to Sodus Point. Even though she had all but abandoned her children, Geurin kept in regular contact with her eldest daughter until January 1991, when Geurin vanished without a trace. Read More: Daughter's Search For Mom Goes On, 23 Years After She Disappeared Anita Knutson In 2007, Anita Knutson was an 18-year-old Minot State University student majoring in elementary education. Knutson was, according to her family, exceptionally responsible for her age and juggled three part-time jobs while attending college. Despite a busy life, she kept in regular contact with her family. So, when she went two days without returning phone calls, her father went to her off-campus apartment on June 4, 2007. When repeated knocks to the door of her 4th Street apartment went unanswered, her father had the building manager open the door. When the concerned father stepped inside, his worst fears became a reality when he found his daughter's lifeless body on the floor of her bedroom. Authorities determined the young woman had been stabbed multiple times, more than a day before her body was found. The murder weapon, a bloody knife, was found discarded in a sink. Detectives also determined someone had cut the screen to Knutson's bedroom window, presumable to gain entry into her apartment. Despite an intensive investigation, authorities were unable to identify a suspect or person of interest in her murder and the case went cold. READ: Family Of Murdered MSU Student Demands Answers JonBenet Ramsey On Dec. 26, 1996, 6-year-old JonBenet Ramsey was found bludgeoned and strangled to death in the basement of her family's Boulder, Colorado, home. A ransom note from an anonymous group of individuals "that represent a foreign faction" asking for $118,000 in exchange for the safe return of JonBenet was found just hours before, but no call ever came from a kidnapper and it was never linked to a murderer. The entire Ramsey family was cleared of any involvement in the murder of JonBenet back in 2008, thanks to then newly discovered DNA evidence, according to 9News. Beginning in 2010, investigators reopened the case and launched a fresh round of interviews with witnesses that could provide more insight into the murder, according to ABC News, but nothing fruitful came of those interviews. The DNA evidence still points to an "unexplained third party" that serves as a vague lead for authorities still pursuing the case, Time magazine reported. Boulder police have tested more than 150 DNA samples and investigated nearly the same amount of potential suspects in their ongoing investigation, but none have ever been linked to the crime. Read More: JonBenet Ramsey's Killer 'May Be Lost Forever' Kathleen Kolodziej Kathleen Kolodziej was reported missing to police in Duanesburg, New York, on Nov. 2, 1974. The 17-year-old college student was last seen early that morning at a local bar. Kolodziej's whereabouts remained a mystery until Nov. 28, 1974, Thanksgiving morning, when investigators located her partially clothed body. Read More: Kathleen Kolodziej's Murder A 38-Year Mystery John Spira John Spira, a 45-year-old blues-rock musician from Chicago known as "Chicago Johnny," has been missing since Feb. 23, 2007. He was last seen at about 7 p.m. at Universal Cable Construction Inc. in DuPage County. Spira co-owned the company with David Stubben, his business partner of 17 years. Spira had plans to meet a friend for dinner in nearby Oak Brook at 8:30 p.m., but he never arrived. The following evening, John's band, The Rabble Rousers, was scheduled to play in Montgomery. However, "Chicago Johnny," well-respected and normally reliable, was a no-show. Read More: John Spira Still Missing 5 Years Later Bobbi Ann Campbell It has been many years since anyone has seen Utah mom Bobbi Ann Campbell. She was last seen in Salt Lake City in December 1994, when she dropped her 5-year-old daughter off at a friend's house. The young mother said she would return after she picked up her paycheck from work and purchased groceries. She never came back. Campbell, then 24, was there one minute and gone the next. She left no immediate trace and no trail to follow. Read More: Bobbi Ann Campbell Missing: Daughter Seeks Closure In 19-Year-Old Case Colonial Parkway Murders The victims, eight in all, came in pairs. Many were young lovers who apparently met their fates mid-assignation. Each of the homicides occurred along the scenic 23-mile route between Jamestown and Yorktown in Virginia, giving them a ready name: the Colonial Parkway murders. Due to the shared location and other similarities among the deaths, law enforcement officials viewed them as the work of a possible serial killer. Read More: Unsolved Murders Of Young Lovers In Va. Sarah Kinslow Sarah Kinslow was last seen by her parents on May 1, 2001, when her dad dropped her off at Greenville Middle School in her hometown of Greenville, Texas, at approximately 7:20 a.m. It was not until after the school day ended that the Kinslows were notified their daughter had not attended any of her classes. When Louise Kinslow spoke to her daughter's friends, they said her daughter was supposed to skip school with them that day and meet up at nearby East Mount Cemetery. Concerned, Kinslow contacted police and reported the teen missing. Authorities took an article of Sarah Kinslow's clothing from the family home and brought a tracking dog to the school. Investigators were able to pick up her scent where she had exited her father's car. The dog followed the scent around the school and to a location two blocks away, where... Read More: Sarah Kinslow Missing: 11 Years, No Answers Robert Levinson Robert Levinson is a former FBI special agent who retired from the FBI in 1998 after 22 years of service. In March 2007, Levinson traveled to Kish Island, Iran, as a private investigator to reportedly look into a cigarette smuggling investigation. He disappeared on March 9 of that year. In 2010, a video purportedly showing Levinson in captivity was sent to his family by his alleged captors. Read More: Retired FBI Agent Missing Since 2007 This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Across the nation, Asian-Americans took a stand against anti-immigrant policies last week. More than 30 organizations participated in #AAPIAction, a weeklong campaign from Oct. 7-14. The groups protested a variety of Trump administration moves that affect the Asian-American community, including the termination of DACA as well as the proposed RAISE Act, which would significantly cut legal immigration. The policies theyre fighting are racist nativist attacks on immigrants, the groups say. And they decided to speak out on the variety of topics all together as they believe theyre rooted in a common problem. It is important to address all of these issues together because they all stem from deep-seated xenophobia and exclusion, Janelle Wong, an American studies professor at the University of Maryland (UMD) told HuffPost. She helped organize an anti-racism rally at the school, which included students of a variety of backgrounds and races. Asian-American groups from all ends of the country took part in the week of resistance, including the Asian Law Alliance, the Filipino Youth Coalition and the Asian Counseling and Referral Service, among several others. Some participated in rallies, others hosted virtual discussions, and more held press conferences to spread awareness on how the policies hurt Asian-Americans. Mari Quenemoen, director of communications and development at SEARAC, told HuffPost her organization actually took part in the Southeast Asian American March for Equity, which started at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. and concluded at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. That particular event served to honor the family members of Southeast Asian-Americans who had fallen during the war but werent recognized on the memorial, as well as to pay homage to a civil rights legend who paved the way for the community. Referencing the slew of policies aimed at cracking down on both legal and illegal immigration, activists say that the Asian-American community is under threat. By 2055, Asians are expected to surpass Hispanics in population, becoming the largest immigrant group in the country, Pew Research reported. Currently, immigrants make up almost 60 percent of the Asian-American population. There are about 1.7 million Asian undocumented immigrants in the US as well. And when looking at the refugee population, Southeast Asians represent the largest refugee group in U.S. history to resettle in the country at more than 1.2 million. Story continues With so much at stake for the Asian-American community, Quenemoen told HuffPost that communities cannot afford to be silent. The Trump administrations rhetoric has emboldened the worst undercurrents of American society - the white supremacists and the nativists who wish to drive out immigrants, Quenemoen told HuffPost. She added that with the rise of these groups, its particularly important to make the struggles and contributions of the Asian-American community known to the public. We oppose the policies that have come out of this administration and Congress, but our work to uplift our stories and voices is important to counter these cultural currents more broadly in the Trump era. Protesters Rally In Seattle (Photo: Asian Counseling and Referral Service) (Photo: Asian Counseling and Referral Service) Students Protest In Maryland (Photo: Conor Huynh) (Photo: Conor Huynh) Protesters March On Washington, D.C. (Photo: Stephen Bobb Photography) (Photo: Stephen Bobb Photography) Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Hillary Clinton has told an Australian state broadcaster that WlkiLeaks founder Julian Assange was a tool of Russia in his release of hacked emails that hurt the U.S. Democratic presidential nominees campaign. Clinton told Australian Broadcasting Corp. in an interview broadcast yesterday that the Australian whistleblower had become a kind of nihilistic opportunist who does the bidding of a dictator, Russian President Vladimir Putin. Hes a tool of Russian intelligence, and if hes such a [] martyr of free speech, why doesnt WikiLeaks ever publish anything coming out of Russia? she said. Clinton was complaining about WikiLeaks publication during the 2016 election campaign of politically damaging emails from the Democratic National Committee. Assange, who is holed up in Ecuadors embassy in London, hit back at Clintons interview, tweeting that she was not a credible person. It is not just her constant lying. It is not just that she throws off menacing glares and seethes thwarted entitlement, he tweeted. Watch closely. Something much darker rides along with it. A cold creepiness rarely seen. In the interview, Clinton rejected reporter Sarah Fergusons proposition that Assange was simply performing a journalists role by publishing information. There was a concerted operation between WikiLeaks and Russia and most likely people in the United States to, as I say, weaponize that information, to make up stories, outlandish, often terrible stories that had no basis in fact, no basis even in the emails themselves, but which were used to denigrate me, my campaign, people who supported me, and to help [Donald] Trump, Clinton said. WikiLeaks is unfortunately now practically a fully owned subsidiary of Russian intelligence, she said. The 45-year-old Australian fled to the embassy in 2012 to avoid extradition to Sweden over an investigation of sexual offense allegations. Despite a Swedish prosecutor announcing in May that he was no longer the target of an active rape investigation, Assange remains in the embassy for fear of extradition to the united States on charges over WikiLeaks aggressive publication of thousands of pages of classified U.S. government documents. CIA Director Mike Pompeo in April denounced WikiLeaks as a hostile intelligence service and a threat to U.S. national security. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said Assanges arrest was a priority as the Justice Department steps up efforts to prosecute people who leak classified information to the media. Their condemnation of WikiLeaks differed sharply from President Donald Trumps past praise of the organization. Before last years election, Trump said he was happy to see WikiLeaks publish private, politically damaging emails from Hillary Clintons campaign manager, John Podesta. He was less happy about the release of CIA tactics, which the White House said was different because it involved information about secretive national security tools. The president said in April that he was not involved in the decision-making process regarding charging Assange but that the move would be OK with me. Rod McGuirk, Canberra, AP President Donald Trump said some nice things about Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras during a joint press conference on Tuesday right before he learned Tsipras had once called Trump's ideas "evil." I wish I knew that before my speech," Trump joked, as everyone watching (I'm just assuming) let out little whimpers or affixed their mouths in tight smiles that said, "ha ha, yes, we are all laughing." SEE ALSO: Sports teams are deserting Trumps hotels, and its hitting his wallet hard Here's the moment: Https%3a%2f%2fvdist.aws.mashable.com%2fcms%2f2017%2f10%2fcc713ffc 1ae7 8983%2fthumb%2f00001 Tsipras responded to the question by saying he hadn't felt "threatened" during his meetings with the president. Which I guess is good. Sure. I mean that's the baseline now, right? As long as the president of the most powerful nation in the world doesn't hint at your obliteration during a bilateral meeting, you can consider it a win. Anyway, before we go, I just want to ask one or a few more questions: How little research does the White House do for these meetings? Did no one do three minutes of googling beforehand? Did his aides just not want to tell Trump that the man he was about to meet thought his ideas represented "evil?" Do White House aides think it's a wise idea to keep that kind of thing from this president and just let him wing his response? These are today's unanswerable questions, apparently. If every car that it builds is exciting as the Polestar 1, Volvo's decision to spin off its racing and tuning arm as a standalone environmentally responsible sportscar company could be one of the best it's ever made. Unveiled at a special event in China, where the new cars will be built, the Polestar 1 will go on sale in 2019 and is described by its creators as a 2+2 grand tourer coupe. "Polestar 1 is the first car to carry the Polestar on the bonnet. A beautiful GT with amazing technology packed into it -- a great start for our new Polestar brand," said Thomas Ingenlath, Volvo's former chief of design and the current CEO of Polestar. The inaugural Polestar uses a hybrid powertrain to deliver a combined 600hp and 1000Nm of torque and, at 150km, it can travel further on pure battery power than any plug-in hybrid currently on sale anywhere in the world. However, as the brand grows and the technology underpinning it matures, Polestar will move away from internal combustion assistance altogether. "All future cars from Polestar will feature a fully electric drivetrain, delivering on our brand vision of being the new standalone electric performance brand," said Ingenlath. The new car closely follows the lines and creases of the achingly beautiful 2013 Volvo coupe concept that debuted at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show (and which Ingenlath penned) and that made such a huge impression on the car-obsessed that Volvo executives were inundated with demands for the car to become a reality. Four years later that reality has arrived, and the car doesn't just look sporting, it promises to deliver on those aesthetics. It has a weight-reducing but rigidity-increasing carbon fiber shell. It is the first production car to use Ohlins Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension and the addition of a double electric rear axle means that the car can push torque to the wheel that needs it most in a millisecond. Those that want this limited production car will have to have a very fast internet connection as all ordering and specification will take place exclusively online. And, as for the pricetag, Polestar isn't charging a lump sum, rather a subscription over two or three years. This fee will cover all aspects of ownership and maintenance from automated collection for servicing and return at a designated location. The system will also permit owners to loan their cars to others via the smartphone as a key system that can give a third party geotagged, time-controlled access to the car, with the accompanying app. Digital order books for the Polestar I will open Tuesday. And, for those that want something less sporting but even more environmentally responsible, on Tuesday the company confirmed that Polestar 2, which will be a true mass-produced car, will be an all-electric compact car aimed squarely at those otherwise considering a Tesla Model 3 when it is revealed in 2019, while the third new Polestar, due a year later, will be a larger SUV-style plug-in electric car. President Donald Trump listens to a question during a joint news conference with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras in the Rose Garden of the White House, Oct. 17, 2017. (Photo: Joshua Roberts / Reuters) WASHINGTON Most Americans think they are paying more federal taxes now than ever. That the tax code is riddled with loopholes that the rich use to avoid paying anything. That the government will take a big chunk of what Americans hope to leave to their children. Most Americans, as it turns out, are really, really wrong and their misconceptions are helping Republican leaders to push tax law changes that polls show Americans do not actually want. Virtually every income group is paying lower taxes now than at any other time since Ronald Reagan became president. And while the tax code has plenty of deductions and credits, the most costly ones are those that middle-class taxpayers would be incensed if they lost. And that inheritance tax? It only affects the richest Americans a tiny percentage of families every year. Were a low-tax country, by the standards of other developed countries, said Roberton Williams, a recently retired analyst at the non-partisan Tax Policy Center. That Americans believe what they do, though, is not surprising to him. Theyre continually told how taxes are too high, he said. Its a continuing drumbeat. Now, President Donald Trump and Republican leaders are taking advantage of those erroneous beliefs while pushing a tax proposal that slashes taxes for the wealthiest Americans but gives only modest breaks for the middle class. As currently structured, the plan would actually be a tax increase for most Americans. Despite this, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) has on numerous occasions described the plan as one that will give the middle class a well-deserved tax break. The entire purpose of this is to lower middle-class taxes, he told CBS News earlier this month. Trump frequently praises the plan because it would allow returns to be done on a single sheet of paper by simplifying the code. Our plan goes from eight tax brackets down to four, he said at a speech in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, last week. Story continues Vice President Mike Pence, on a recent trip to Detroit and Milwaukee to sell the proposal, heard from an employee of a metal fabrication plant who said that even though his parents were not rich, he was worried the government would tax what they have managed to accumulate when they die. Whatever they have built, it would be nice if they could pass it down, he said. That is a relatively common fear among Americans. Thirty-two percent, in fact, believe they are either very likely or somewhat likely to have to pay the estate tax, according to a YouGov poll commissioned by HuffPost even though the tax applies only to inheritances worth at least $5.5 million. Thirty-eight percent said they were unlikely to have to pay any estate tax, and 31 percent said they were unsure. A subsequent survey found that 41 percent of Americans believe they personally are paying more in taxes than they were 10 years ago, and 52 percent believe the middle class is paying more than it was 10 years ago. Thirty-eight percent, meanwhile, believe the wealthy are paying less than they were a decade ago. None of those impressions is accurate, however. The middle fifth of taxpayers in terms of income paid 12.8 percent in federal taxes in 2013, the most recent year for which data is available, compared with 13.6 percent in 2003, 17.2 percent in 1993, and 17.5 percent in 1983 immediately after Reagans big first-term tax cuts, according to Congressional Budget Office figures. That same trend is reflected across every income group, in fact, except the richest fifth of Americans, who saw their taxes rise from 23.8 percent in 1983 to 26.3 percent in 2013 and that was only because of tax increases under President Barack Obama following his re-election. That groups tax rate had been 23.9 percent in 2012. As for loopholes there are several dozen in the tax code, and they do total $1.2 trillion in lost tax revenue each year. But in reality, the 10 largest loopholes account for two-thirds of that value. And of those 10, all but two benefit middle- and lower-income families. The biggest loophole, for instance, worth $236 billion this year, allows employees who get health insurance through work not to pay any taxes on it. Another large one, worth $113 billion, lets homeowners enjoy the housing value of their dwellings tax-free giving them a big advantage over landlords and tenants. Most people dont realize theyre there, Williams said. [They dont realize] that theyre getting a benefit thats not being taxed. The earned income tax credit, worth $64 billion, only goes to lower-income Americans, while the child tax credit, which costs $54 billion, is unavailable to the wealthy. If these exclusions, deductions and credits were eliminated, middle- and lower-income families would see their tax bills rise substantially. And the estate tax, thanks to changes passed as part of President George W. Bushs tax cuts in the early 2000s, now only affects inheritances worth $5.5 million or more meaning it was highly unlikely that the factory worker who spoke to Pence needed to worry about it. When its called the death tax, it sounds really bad, Williams said. One in 500 deaths results in a tax. Its obfuscation by repetition. During that visit to a metal shop in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Pence continued that repetition, employing the death tax phrasing that Republicans adopted decades ago after polls and focus groups found that its use made the estate tax less popular. Listen, the presidents tax cuts eliminate the death tax, Pence told the Weldall employee concerned about his parents nest egg being taken by the estate tax. We believe death should not be a taxable event. Even when making the case that the tax code is too complicated an argument that appears to naturally resonate with many taxpayers Republicans are using a sales pitch that glosses over the facts. A full 68 percent of Americans, including 59 percent of Democrats, believe the tax system is too complicated, according to recent polling by HuffPost. Thats the case even though the vast majority of taxpayers about 70 percent do not itemize deductions, and instead take the standard deduction, which this year will be $6,350 for single filers and $12,700 for married couples. Whats more, simply reducing the number of income brackets which Trump, Ryan and other proponents continue to boast about would not actually simplify taxes for anyone, particularly with more and more taxpayers using computer software that does the arithmetic for them. Political consultant Doug Heye, a former communications director at the National Republican Committee, said he understands why the simplification argument strikes a chord. Number one: Look at our math scores, he said, noting that even filing a single-page 1040EZ or a two-page 1040 requires understanding a detailed packet of instructions. Youre handed a book. And youre expected to figure it out? Thats not simple. The best advantage Republicans have, Heye said, is the fact that few people believe their taxes are being well spent. For that matter, few people are eager to pay taxes to begin with. Anybody who files their taxes is upset by how much they have to pay, he said. Trump has certainly been relying on that for months. At a recent White House event marking Hispanic Heritage Month, Trump promised the largest tax cuts in the history of the country and then asked his audience if anyone objected. Does anybody in this room mind getting a massive tax cut? he said. The audience responded: No! Does anybody object to paying less taxes? Trump asked, and then answered his own question. I dont see any hands. The two HuffPost/YouGov polls cited each consisted of 1,000 completed interviews, one conducted Sept. 29-Oct. 2 and the other conducted Oct. 13-14. Both were conducted among U.S. adults, using a sample selected from YouGovs opt-in online panel to match the demographics and other characteristics of the adult U.S. population. HuffPost has teamed up with YouGov to conduct daily opinion polls. You can learn more about this project and take part in YouGovs nationally representative opinion polling. More details on the polls methodology are available here. Most surveys report a margin of error that represents some, but not all, potential survey errors. YouGovs reports include a model-based margin of error, which rests on a specific set of statistical assumptions about the selected sample rather than the standard methodology for random probability sampling. If these assumptions are wrong, the model-based margin of error may also be inaccurate. Click here for a more detailed explanation of the model-based margin of error. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. The brother and former business partner of disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein has been accused of sexual harassment. Amanda Segel, an executive producer of the television show Mist, told Variety that Bob Weinstein had made multiple unwanted romantic advances toward her last year. Segels claims come on the heels of nearly two weeks of similar allegations about Harvey Weinstein, who was fired from his namesake production company earlier this month after a bombshell New York Times report revealed decades of alleged abuse. No should be enough, Segel told Variety. After no, anybody who has asked you out should just move on. Bob kept referring to me that he wanted to have a friendship. He didnt want a friendship. He wanted more than that. My hope is that no is enough from now on. She said that he had even joked that he could fire her from the show they worked on together if she didnt agree to a date. Weinsteins attorney Bert Fields told The Hollywood Reporter that Segels claims are riddled with false and misleading assertions. There is no way in the world that Bob Weinstein is guilty of sexual harassment, and even if you believed what this person asserts there is no way it would amount to that, Fields said. Segels accusations against Weinstein fly in the face of the criticism hes leveled at his brothers alleged behavior. Referring to Harvey Weinstein as indefensible and crazy, Bob Weinstein told The Hollywood Reporter, I want him to get the justice that he deserves. He also denied knowing about the harassment allegations against his brother, even as the Times reported that The Weinstein Companys board may have been aware of them since 2015. This story has been updated with a quote from Bert Fields. Harvey and Bob Weinstein pose with the Motion Picture Showmanship Award backstage at The Beverly Hilton hotel on Feb. 20, 2015. (Photo: Mathew Imaging via Getty Images) Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Two embracing bodies found in a remote desert are believed to belong to young hikers who disappeared months ago in Joshua Tree National Park. Joseph Orbeso, 21, and girlfriend Rachel Nguyen, 20, both of Los Angeles, vanished in the desert as temperatures reached 100-plus degrees in July. Read: Hikers Stunned as They Suddenly Come Face-to-Face With Mountain Lion: 'What Are We Supposed to Do?' They were reported missing after they never checked out of an Airbnb they had rented near the rugged California wilderness. Their car was found at the head of the Maze Loop trail, but there were no clues as to what happened to them. His cell phone had pinged a nearby tower on the day they went missing. Gilbert Orbeso, the mans father, was with searchers who made the sad discovery Sunday. He has combed the area each week since his boy disappeared, even after authorities called off the official search for the couple. He was helped by volunteers. I believed that I was going to find them," he told KESQ-TV. "I didnt know when, but I had my answer today." Read: 1 Hiker Dead, 4 Others Injured After Plunging Down Icy Mountain The remains have not been identified by authorities, but the father said one of the bodies belonged to his son. Autopsies will be conducted by the San Bernardino County Coroners Office. Searchers said they covered new ground on Sunday, scaling 30-foot boulders and cliffs. Just two miles from Maze Loop, they found water bottles, clothes and food wrappers. The bodies werent far away. I feel like we have closure, the father said. We know we found them. That was our main goal, to find them. Watch: Strangers Form Human Chain to Rescue 60 Hikers Stranded From Flash Floods Related Articles: U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, who was captured by the Taliban after walking off his military base in Afghanistan, has pleaded guilty to charges related to the high-profile incident. Bergdahl faced a court-martial Monday in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where on Monday he pleaded guilty to charges of desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, the Associated Press reports. The Taliban captured Bergdahl in 2009 after the soldier had suddenly left his post. Bergdahl was held as a prisoner of war for five years until President Barack Obama negotiated Bergdahls release in May 2014 in exchange for five Taliban leaders held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Read more: TIMEs 2014 Cover Story on Bergdahls Return Bergdahl had been lambasted as a traitor for abandoning his unit. Among his fiercest critics was now-President Donald Trump. In a previously unaired interview, obtained by ABC News, Bergdahl tells a British filmmaker he felt his detractors would keep him from having a fair trial. WATCH: @ABC News Exclusive: Bowe Bergdahl speaks out; former P.O.W. expected to plead guilty to desertion charges: https://t.co/ocPTSefAvO pic.twitter.com/lcxOKya9FR Good Morning America (@GMA) October 16, 2017 We may as well go back to kangaroo courts and lynch mobs that got what they wanted, the 31-year-old Idaho native said. The people who want to hang me, youre never going to convince those people. Bergdahl could be sentenced to life in prison: AP US Army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl - who was held hostage by the Taliban for five years after going missing from his post in Afghanistan - has pleaded guilty to desertion. The 31-year-old, who disappeared from a remote combat outpost in the summer of 2009 and was called a traitor by Donald Trump, also pleaded guilty to a charge of misbehaviour before the enemy. Bergdahls lawyer at the military hearing at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, said the defence and prosecution had not been able to agree to a so-called stipulation of facts in the case. The Associated Press said this was a likely indication that they had been unable to come to an agreement about a limit to his term of punishment. Bergdahl, from Idaho, was held for five years by the Haqqani network, the same militant faction linked to the Taliban, that held American Caitlan Coleman and her family hostage for five years until being freed last Wednesday. After enduring what one US official said was intense abuse while in captivity, he was freed as part of a controversial prisoner swap. He was released in 2014 in exchange for five Taliban prisoners who had been detained at Guantanamo Bay. While campaigning for the White House, Mr Trump called Bergdahl garbage and suggested that he should have been summarily executed. You know in the old days - Bing. Bong, Mr Trump said in one speech, as he he mimicked the firing of a rifle. When we were strong. During his hearing on Monday before Army Col Jeffery Nance, Bergdahl said: I left my observation post on my own. I understand leaving was against the law. The charge of misbehaviour before the enemy carries a maximum charge of life in prison, though the judge will have to take many factors into account when he starts the sentencing process, scheduled to begin next week. WATCH: @ABC News Exclusive: Bowe Bergdahl speaks out; former P.O.W. expected to plead guilty to desertion charges: https://t.co/ocPTSefAvO pic.twitter.com/lcxOKya9FR Good Morning America (@GMA) October 16, 2017 Former members of Bergdahls unit have claimed that the deaths of six US soldiers have been tied, either directly or indirectly, to the search for him after he disappeared, according to CNN. The New York Times said prosecutors had argued once he disappeared, his unit was obliged to change its operations and said two soldiers and a Navy SEAL suffered serious injures in search operations. Story continues However, lawyers for Bergdahl have said those injuries cannot be directly tied to the accused. Military investigators later found serious errors with the planning of one search mission. Bergdahl had raised the issue of whether he would be able to obtain a fair trial given Mr Trumps comments. In an interview last year with British filmmaker Sean Langan, who was himself held captive by the same Taliban group in 2008, Bergdahl said Mr Trumps comments would have had a serious impact. We may as well go back to kangaroo courts and lynch mobs that got what they wanted, Bergdahl said in the interview, broadcast by ABC. The people who want to hang me, youre never going to convince those people. Bergdahl has been assigned to desk duty at a Texas Army base while his case unfolds. French President Emmanuel Macron wife Brigitte Macro urges women to speak out about harassment - AP POOL France's First Lady Brigitte Macron has urged women to "break the silence" on abusive men as French Elle published a cover of a rockstar's murdered girlfriend. Mrs Macron's call on women to speak out about sexual abuse, harassment or violence came amid furious debate over male abuse of women in France in the wake of the scandal embroiling Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. President Emmanuel Macron's wife was speaking after attending Les Chatouilles (Tickling), a one-woman play by Andrea Bescond who recounts her own rape, at a Paris theatre. Asked afterwards to comment a torrent of online reaction in France to the Weinstein scandal, prompting thousands of women to recount harassment in the workplace, Mrs Macron said: "I'm very happy that women are speaking out. It could be a cloud with a silver lining." She added: "That's enough. I think that all this (harassment) must stop very quickly. Freeing up speech is the best thing that could happen. (Those who speak out) are very brave to do so. I urge them to break their silence. It's wonderful. Something is happening, really." Au theatre Antoine avec Brigitte Macron @NBelloubet et @MarleneSchiappa pour la piece "Les Chatouilles". Liberer la parole. @enmarchefrpic.twitter.com/UljvlAS3KW Benjamin Griveaux (@BGriveaux) October 16, 2017 Her comments were in response to a question regarding one female French journalist's call on Twitter to bring harassment out in the open under the hashtag "Squeal on the pigs", which has prompted a massive online response. Story continues Also present at the theatre was justice minister Nicole Belloubet and gender equality minister Marlene Schiappa, who on Monday confirmed that France would next year pass a law granting police powers to hand out on-the-spot fines to men who harass women in public. The announcement came amid outrage in France over the decision of Les Inrockuptibles, the French equivalent of Rolling Stone magazine, to slap one of the country's previously most iconic rock stars on its front cover despite the fact he was convicted of beating his actress girlfriend to death. Elle France's cover featuring actress Marie Trintignant, who was beaten to death by her rockstar boyfriend Bertrand Cantat in 2003 Credit: Elle Bertrand Cantat was found guilty of murdering actress Marie Trintignant in 2003 while she was shooting a film in Lithuania. He was released after serving half of his eight-year sentence years for good behaviour. One online commentator juxtaposed a picture of the front cover of Les Inrockuptibles with the Ms Trintignant's autopsy underneath with the details of her injuries. The front cover prompted the Ms Schiappa to exclaim: "In the name of what should we put up with the promotion of the man who beat Marie Trintignant to death?" A former women's rights minister accused the magazine of indecency and seeking to "wipe the slate clean" over her death. Laurence Rossignol called on the magazine to "apologise to the Trintignant family and all the victims of violence against women". Les Inrockuptibles cover featuring rockstar Bertrand Cantat sparks outrage as he beat his actress girlfriend to death in 2003 This week, Elle France magazine responded by placing a photo of the late Ms Trintignant on the front cover with the caption: "In the name of Marie." The actress, it said, had become "the face of all women victims of male violence. The face of the 123 unknown women killed by their partners last year." "Marie Trintignant, we won't forget you. It will take more than the obscene media promotion of Bertrand Cantatto extinguish the flame." Mr Cantat, who is bringing out his first solo album in December, this month released a single called England. With outrage snowballing over its front cover, Les Inrockuptibles finally issued a partial apology on Tuesday. In an editorial to readers, it said it had featured Mr Cantat on the cover as his "return to music" was "important". But, it went on, "the suffering that this cover may have caused deeply touched us". It added: "To put him on the cover was questionable. To those who felt wounded, we express our sincere regrets." MADAGASCAR As plague cases rise in Madagascars capital, many city dwellers are panicking. They waited in long lines for antibiotics at pharmacies and reached through bus windows to buy masks from street vendors. Schools have been canceled, and public gatherings are banned. The plague outbreak has killed 63 people in the Indian Ocean island nation, Madagascars government says. VIETNAM Some villages in Vietnam are still isolated by landslides and destroyed bridges after a tropical depression last week that has become one of the countrys worst natural disasters in years. The Vietnam Disaster Management Authority said in a statement yesterday the death toll has risen to 72 with 30 people still missing. PHILIPPINES The last two surviving leaders of a deadly siege in the southern Philippines, including a top Asian terror suspect, were killed yesterday in a push by thousands of troops to retake the last pocket of Marawi city still held by pro-Islamic State militants, top security officials said. IRAQ Kurdish forces were withdrawing from Kirkuk yesterday as Iraqi federal forces moved in to the disputed city and seized oil fields and other infrastructure amid soaring tensions over last months Kurdish vote for independence. SPAIN A Monday morning deadline came and went without the president of the Catalonia region clarifying whether he had declared independence from Spain, and the Spanish government says he now has until Thursday to backtrack on any steps the region has taken toward secession. ANTARCTICA Almost the entire cohort of chicks from an Adelie penguin colony in the eastern Antarctic was wiped out by starvation last summer in what scientists say is only the second such incident in over 40 years. VENEZUELA Pro-government candidates have swept to an unforeseen victory in Venezuelan gubernatorial races according to official results that have quickly been challenged by the countrys opposition. By Jim Christie SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Reuters) - Crews fought their way across rugged, steep terrain on Tuesday in a push to gain full control of the deadliest wildfires in California history, as search-and-rescue teams picked through an ashy moonscape of destroyed homes looking for victims. Though a dozen major blazes were still burning across the region, where 5,700 homes and businesses, some of them wineries, have been gutted, fire officials said they were gaining confidence they had finally gained the upper hand against the flames. "There are still some concerns that if the west winds come up or we get some erratic winds they could push our lines, but as of right now we're looking pretty good," Steve Crawford, a fire operations chief, told reporters at a briefing in Sonoma County in the heart of California's celebrated wine country. At the same time, teams of searchers were moving house to house through neighborhoods where little was left standing, picking through ash and rubble to recover the bodies of those who did not make it out in time. Already 41 people have been confirmed killed in the fires, which erupted last week and were driven by dry, hot winds into Northern California communities, giving residents little or no chance to escape. Law enforcement officials said 63 people remained missing or unaccounted for in Sonoma and Napa counties. Most of the over 1,900 people listed in missing-persons reports have turned up safe, including evacuees who failed to alert authorities after fleeing their homes, but authorities still fear they may find more charred bodies as they move into previously inaccessible areas. Tens of thousands of people remained displaced. Many would return to find nothing left, leaving them to hastily make alternative plans for shelter. Related Video: DEADLIEST FIRE ON RECORD Kevin Klotter, who owns Valley Quail Vineyard in Mendocino County, said his home and two barns were burned to the ground on his 6.5-acre (2.63-hectare) property, but that he had managed to harvest 22 tons of grapes before the fire fame. Story continues "Miraculously, the vineyard survived," Klotter said, adding that his insurance company was paying for his family to stay in a motel in nearby Ukiah. As for the long term, he said, he and his wife Bree would buy a recreational vehicle to live in while they rebuild at estimated cost of $700,000. Fire officials said investigators were working to determine the cause of each blaze. Light winds on Tuesday helped a small army of 11,000 firefighters gain more control of the flames, which have blackened more than 245,000 acres (86,200 hectares), an area more than five times the size of Washington, D.C. The Tubbs fire near the community of Calistoga was 82 percent contained as of Tuesday afternoon and the Atlas fire to the southeast was 77 percent contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), the state's firefighting agency. The Nuns Fire, located in Sonoma County and now the state's largest blaze, was 68 percent contained. Fire officials, employing more than 960 fire engines, 30 air tankers and 73 helicopters, hoped the blazes would be fully contained by Friday. Rain was also forecast for later in the week, bringing relief from dry conditions, although fire officials said that a storm could also stir up unfavorable winds. Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital, which had to evacuate last week, reopened on Tuesday morning, the Sonoma Sheriff's Department said. The wildfires are California's deadliest on record, surpassing the Griffith Park fire of 1933 in Los Angeles, which had 29 deaths. About 30 vintners sustained some fire damage to wine-making facilities, vineyards, tasting rooms or other assets, according to the industry group Napa Valley Vintners. About 90 percent of Napa's grape harvest had been picked and escaped exposure to smoke that could have tainted the fruit. Still, the toll taken on the region has thrown the wine industry into disarray. The group's spokeswoman, Patsy McGaughy, said the 2017 Napa vintage would likely be smaller than previously expected. (Reporting by Jim Christie in Santa Rosa, Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee, Chris Kenning in Chicago and Dan Whitcomb in Los Angeles; writing by Dan Whitcomb; editing by Jonathan Oatis, Peter Cooney and G Crosse) Daphne Caruana Galizia, described by the Times of Malta as the countrys most controversial journalist, was killed on October 16 in a car explosion near her home in Bidnija, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat confirmed. Caruana Galizia spent her career working with various Maltese news outlets but was best known for her personal blog, in which she railed against corruption among the countrys political elite. In 2016, she broke a story related to the Panama Papers, tying the prime ministers chief of staff, Keith Schembri, and then Minister for Energy and Health Konrad Mizzi to offshore shell companies, sparking a political crisis. Her last blog post was published just minutes before the blast, and discussed the court appearances that morning of Schembri and former opposition leader Simon Busuttil. Schembri had brought a libel case against Busuttil related to alleged accusations of corruption during a rally speech Busuttil gave in 2016. In the post, Caruana Galizia described Schembri as a crook. Following her death, Busuttil tweeted: The rule of law has collapsed. Our democracy is at stake. Opposition leader Adrian Delia, who had also come under criticism by Caruana Galizia, said: This is the collapse of democracy and freedom of expression. Prime Minister Joseph Muscat described the bombing as a spiteful attack on a citizen and freedom of expression, and vowed to bring those responsible to justice. Credit: YouTube/Charles Sammut via Storyful News sources today are reporting the tragic death of Daphne Caruana Galizia, a journalist who reported on the Panama Papers investigation and was renowned for her own investigations into corruption in Malta. Caruana Galizia, 53, was reportedly killed in a car bombing near her home. Local media reports indicated that in recent days she had filed a police report complaining of death threats. Caruana Galizia was a fearless journalist and blogger who exposed numerous offshore dealings of prominent figures in Malta. She was also the mother of International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) developer and data journalist Matthew Caruana Galizia. ICIJ spun off from the Center for Public Integrity earlier this year. John Dunbar, CEO of the Center condemned the attack, saying it was not only a tragic killing of a courageous journalist but an attack on the profession as a whole. This must not go unpunished. ICIJ released a statement condemning the attack: ICIJ condemns violence against journalists and is deeply concerned about freedom of the press in Malta, wrote its director, Gerard Ryle. ICIJ calls upon the Maltese authorities to investigate the murder and bring the perpetrators to justice. ICIJs thoughts are with the Caruana Galizia family at this time. No group or individual has come forward to claim responsibility for the attack according to news accounts at this writing. This story is part of Inside Publici. Stories were working on, the impact of our investigations, news about our fundraising efforts, and other issues that shape our work. Click here to read more stories in this topic. Copyright 2017 The Center for Public Integrity. This story was published by The Center for Public Integrity, a nonprofit, nonpartisan investigative news organization in Washington, D.C. Even after her death Carrie Fisher is having none of your bullshit. Heather Ross, a friend of Fisher's, spoke to a local radio station in Tucson, AZ. about her experience with sexual assault in Hollywood. On the 94.9 Morning Mix, Ross recalled inappropriate advances from a big name producer and how Fisher made clear she had a zero-tolerance policy for that kind of behavior. SEE ALSO: Kate Winslet refused to thank Harvey Weinstein in her 2009 Oscars speech After Ross was assaulted by "an Oscar-winning producer" not Weinstein, but another Fisher was furious. After the initial shock and fear wore off, Fisher ran into the producer at Sony and delivered him a package. "It was a cow tongue from Jerrys Famous Deli with a note that said, If you ever touch my darling Heather or any other woman again, the next delivery will be something of yours in a much smaller box. The cow tongue was all Fisher's idea, natch, and she made sure to deliver it in person and watch him open the box. "That's just how she was," Ross said. "I miss her dearly. She stood up for people...She put things out there and in your face." Ross met the producer online their conversations weren't sexual or romantic, she said, but he did want to meet up and get her involved with his latest project. "I felt safe thinking, 'I'm overweight, I'm not attractive to these people, I'm not looking to become an actress,'" she explained. She met with him and he made sexual advances. "When it happened, it happened so quickly that I was ashamed of myself," she said. "I thought I did something wrong. And I thought, 'Well, maybe by meeting up with him...I was asking for it.'" The producer picked her up in his car then made an excuse to pull over. He reached over her to quickly recline the passenger-side seat then pushed himself on top of her. Story continues Ross explained she thought she was "protected" by not fitting Hollywood's beauty standards, but her story confirms what most women know and what a piece like Mayim Bialik's New York Times column failed to pick up on: This happens to all women. Ross told her mother and friends but ultimately stayed silent for many years, describing the massive power gap between a "kid from Tucson" and an award-winning producer. Related: Watch movie trailers and more on go90. h/t Page Six By Julien Toyer, Angus Berwick and Sam Edwards MADRID/BARCELONA (Reuters) - Spain moved closer on Monday to imposing central rule over Catalonia to thwart its independence push as Madrid's High Court signaled a hardening line by jailing the leaders of two of the largest separatist organizations. In the first imprisonment of senior secessionist figures since Catalonia's Oct. 1 independence referendum, the court ordered the heads of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium held without bail pending an investigation for alleged sedition. Prosecutors say that the ANC's Jordi Sanchez and Omnium's Jordi Cuixart played central roles in orchestrating pro-independence protests that last month trapped national police inside a Barcelona building and destroyed their vehicles. Around 200 people flocked to the Catalan government's headquarters in Barcelona in a peaceful show of support for both men, with some chanting "Freedom" and waving "Democracy" banners. The ANC, which has organized protests of hundreds of thousands of secessionists in the past, called for further peaceful demonstrations around Catalonia on Tuesday. Catalan regional President Carles Puigdemont commented on Twitter: "Spain jails Catalonia's civil society leaders for organizing peaceful demonstrations. Sadly, we have political prisoners again" -- an allusion to Spain's military dictatorship under Francisco Franco. The High Court also banned the Catalan police chief, Josep Lluis Trapero, from leaving Spain and seized his passport while he is being investigated over the same incident, though it did not order his arrest. Last Tuesday, Puigdemont stepped back from asking the Catalan parliament to vote on independence, instead making a symbolic declaration and calling for negotiations on the region's future. In a confrontation viewed with mounting alarm in European capitals and financial markets, Puigdemont failed on Monday to respond to Madrid's ultimatum to clarify whether he had declared unilateral independence in a speech last week. He now has until Thursday to back down. In a letter to Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, Puigdemont gave no direct answer on the independence issue, instead making a "sincere and honest" offer for dialogue over the next two months. In reply, Rajoy said Puigdemont's stance had brought Madrid closer to triggering Article 155 of the constitution, under which it can impose direct rule on any of the country's 17 autonomous communities if they break the law. The Catalan government's campaign to break away from Spain has pitched the country into its worst political crisis since an abortive coup attempt in 1981. On Monday the economy ministry told the EU that it had slashed its economic growth forecasts for next year partly due to the situation. The Catalan government says 90 percent of voters in the referendum backed a breakaway, but turnout was only 43 percent as most opponents of independence in the region boycotted the vote, already declared illegal by Spain's Constitutional Court. Thousands have demonstrated in Barcelona and other Spanish cities both for and against independence. So far the crisis has been largely violence-free, except for the day of the referendum when national police assaulted voters with batons and rubber bullets. The High Court ruled that Trapero, the Catalan police chief, would have his passport withdrawn but rejected a request from the state prosecutor for him to be held in custody. Trapero is a hero to the secessionists after his force took a much softer stance than national police in enforcing the ban on the referendum. Prosecutors say he failed to give orders to rescue national police trapped inside the Barcelona building. TALK TO ME, PUIGDEMONT SAYS Puigdemont last Tuesday delayed by several weeks a formal declaration of independence from Spain to allow for talks. Madrid has ruled out talks unless Puigdemont gives up the independence demand. It had given him until 10 a.m. (0800 GMT) on Monday to clarify his position with a "Yes" or "No", and until Thursday to change his mind if he insisted on a split. Following his failure to do so, a regional broadcaster said he also planned to ignore a final deadline on Thursday. Suggesting that Puigdemont and his team were in no mood to follow Rajoy's game plan, Catalan interior minister Joaquim Forn said Article 155 would not allow Madrid to remove members of the Catalan government. The article's terms on direct rule, which has never been applied, are vague. It says Madrid can "adopt any measure" to force a region to meet its constitutional obligations, with the approval of Spain's lower house. The wording suggests this could include anything from taking control of regional police and finances to installing a new governing team or calling a snap election. Underlining the deepening crisis, some of the largest companies in prosperous Catalonia, which accounts for a fifth of the Spanish economy, have already shifted head offices elsewhere and others are likely to follow if Puigdemont declares outright independence. Investors say a political split could undermine the economic rebound in Spain, the euro zone's fourth-largest economy. (Additional reporting by Isla Binnie and Raquel Castillo; Editing by Mark Heinrich and Sandra Maler) After their rescue last week from Taliban-linked militants, the children of Joshua Boyle and Caitlan Coleman see their new home as a magical wonderland Joshua Boyle and his son Jonah play in the garden in Smiths Falls on Saturday. Photograph: Lars Hagberg/AP After years of living underground, shuffled between cells no bigger than a bathtub, the three children of a US-Canada couple held for years by Islamist militants are marveling at the sun and adjusting to their first taste of freedom but are still terrified that this magical wonderland will end, their father has said. Joshua Boyle, his American wife, Caitlan Coleman, and their children were rescued on Wednesday, after being abducted by Taliban-linked militants in 2012 while traveling through a mountainous region of Afghanistan. As the family made the long journey from Pakistan to Smiths Falls, a town of 9,000 people near Ottawa, the children all of whom were born while the couple was in captivity eagerly asked if each new airport was their new home, said Boyle. Since arriving in Canada, the couples four-year-old, Najaeshi Jonah, has become fascinated with flushing the toilet. Everything in the house is a wonderland to him, Boyle told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in an email. That said, hes terrified to leave the house, even just to go on the porch its as though he thinks if he ever exits this magical wonderland it will all end. He worried about the learning curve his eldest child now faced. He doesnt actually understand that there is a sun outside, Boyle told Today.com. So forget Mickey Mouse, were dealing with the basics. Its not welcome to the western world, its not welcome to Canada, its welcome to life. Boyle, now 34, said he and Coleman, 31, had always planned to have a big family, and had dreamed of having as many as 12 children. While in captivity, they decided to forge ahead with these plans, deciding: Hey, lets make the best of this and at least go home with a larger start on our dream family. The decision was made easier by the boredom that cloaked their lives; for five years the couple had little access to books, newspapers or movies. Were sitting as hostages with a lot of time on our hands, Boyle told the Associated Press in an email. We always wanted as many as possible, and we didnt want to waste time. Caits in her 30s, the clock is ticking. Story continues The family was shuffled between several prisons. Boyle described the first one as remarkably barbaric while the second was more comfortable. The third, he said, was a place of violence where he and his wife were frequently separated and beaten. The experience has left the couples middle child, Dhakwoen Noah, two, traumatised. It seems everything reminds him of the horrors of prison: cameras are equated to hostage videos, pens are equated to syringes used to drug his parents with ketamine by the guards, slamming doors is associated with cell searches or worse. It seems his healing process has barely begun so we pray that God will hasten it, he told the CBC. The childrens time in captivity had coloured everything, said Boyles father, Patrick Boyle, citing how the two young boys had climbed on to a table to delve into a cake with their hands. Were watching a two-year-old and a four-year-old adjusting from eating with their hands whatever food was dropped in front of them to seeing, for the first time, basic utensils, he told CTV News. Another example was in how the family continued to sleep together in the smallest room of the house, he said. They said it was more than twice the size of the best circumstances they were ever in. After he and his family landed in Canada late on Friday night, Boyle briefly spoke to reporters, hinting at the horrors the family had suffered at the hands of the Haqqani network, a group deemed a terrorist organisation by the US. The stupidity and the evil of the Haqqani networks kidnapping of a pilgrim and his heavily pregnant wife was eclipsed only by the stupidity and evil of authorizing the murder of my infant daughter, Boyle told reporters, his voice cracking. And the stupidity and evil of the subsequent rape of my wife, not as a lone action, by one guard, but assisted by the captain of the guard and supervised by the commandant. He said they had travelled to Afghanistan to help the most neglected minority group in the world, said Boyle. Those ordinary villagers who live deep inside Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, where no NGO, no aid worker and no government has ever successfully been able to bring the necessary help. Following their rescue, his father-in-law expressed frustration with Boyle for taking his daughter to Afghanistan while she was pregnant. Many seized on the remarks, along with the fact that Boyle was once married to the sister of Omar Khadr, the Canadian held for 10 years at Guantanamo Bay after being captured as a teenager at an al-Qaida compound in Afghanistan, to speculate that the couple had had other motivations for the trip. Boyle, a former call center worker, dismissed the reports. Im a harmless hippie and I do not kill even mice, he told the Toronto Star. Ive been vegetarian for 17 years. Anybody who knows me would laugh at the notion that I went with designs on becoming a combatant. He believed the Haqqani network had targeted the couple after spotting Coleman, who was visibly pregnant at the time. They spoke often immediately following the kidnapping that America will pay for you very quickly America will not want to risk the baby is born here in prison, Boyle told the Canadian Press. The Taliban has denied allegations that Coleman was raped and that the couples daughter was killed. Instead, a Taliban spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, said in a statement that Coleman had had a natural miscarriage after contracting an illness that could not be treated in the rural area where the family was being held. No one has either intentionally murdered the child of this couple and neither has anyone violated or defiled them, he added. Tiangong 1: The out-of-control Chinese space station could be about to fall to Earth A huge orbiting Chinese space station could crash to Earth in a fireball, experts have warned. The massive Tiangong-1 satellite, launched in 2011, has lost radio connection with Chinas space agency, and China has now admitted it will fall to Earth. The craft, whose name means heavenly palace is now dipping into Earths atmosphere, and heading towards our planet. MOST POPULAR ON YAHOO UK: The shocking moment a man led police on 110mph chase with a baby in the car 30 pictures taken inside North Korea using a mobile phone Storm Ophelia: Met Office warns of potential danger to life in UK Bride-to-be fears dream day is off after couples lewd photo sparks calls for foreign wedding ban Jonathan McDowell of Harvard University said, Now that perigee is below 300km and it is in denser atmosphere, the rate of decay is getting higher. I expect it will come down a few months from now late 2017 or early 2018. Most pieces of space junk burn up on re-entry, but because of its size, pieces of Tiangong-1 might reach the ground. Launched in 2011, the 8.5-ton Tiangong-1 space laboratory had originally been a symbol of Beijings ambitious scientific bid to become a space superpower. It will be difficult to predict where it comes down although previous uncontrolled re-entries of spacecraft have never injured anyone, McDowell said. the 8-tonne Tiangong honestly doesn't worry me, but deorbiting it under control would certainly have been 'best practice'. Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) October 15, 2017 He said in 2016, You really cant steer these things. even a couple of days before it re-enters we probably wont know better than six or seven hours, plus or minus, when its going to come down. Not knowing when its going to come down translates as not knowing where its going to come down. Wherever CNBC's Jim Cramer looks, the most pervasive trait in the stock market's best performers is the cloud. "If you were going to dream up the ideal stock for this particular environment, you'd want it to be an artificial-intelligence-based cloud company that can help further e-commerce, particularly in payments, while delivering a product the last mile to a house that's being rebuilt in Texas or Florida," the " Mad Money " host said. When he reviewed the market's best stock charts over the weekend, Cramer found that, from Red Hat (RHT) to Nvidia (NVDA), every top-performing stock has some ties to the cloud, whether it be through the main part of its business, products that enable cloud connection or segments that use the cloud to further business. And while other sectors like defense and industrials are running hot, Cramer said that there's one trend that really matters. "Those are all minor chords. It's this: When you look at the hottest stocks in this environment, the major theme is the cloud. Everything else pales in comparison," he said. Apple: A Lesson in Buying on Weakness When it comes to investing, Cramer maintains one key guideline : when the market gives you a chance to buy a high-quality stock, you must take advantage of it. "You literally have to take action right into the knee-jerk negativity to get the best buys, and that confuses a lot of people," the "Mad Money" host said. To clarify the strategy, Cramer turned to the stock of Apple (AAPL), one of his favorite long term investments. In September, Apple's shares fell from $164 to $150 on worries that the new iPhone would not live up to expectations. But the stock has recently regained momentum, surging to $159 on Monday on nothing but what Cramer saw as an obvious research note. "So why did Apple's stock roar higher then? My conclusion: it never should've been knocked down in the first place," he said. Story continues A 'Terrific' Trump Stock? While Cramer hasn't exactly been a bull about major legislation passing through Congress, he can't deny that President Donald Trump's administration has been good for stocks. "After eight years of democratic rule, businesses feel a lot more confident about an administration that wants to roll back every regulation in the book," the " Mad Money " host said. "Whether that's a good idea long term is debatable, but right now it's led to a surge in hiring and the lowest unemployment rate since 2001." A higher employment rate paves the way for stocks like Cintas (CTAS), the top supplier of uniforms and uniform rentals to U.S. businesses, to soar higher, Cramer said. Shortly after the 2016 election, Cramer named Cintas "the ultimate Trump stock" for being positioned to surge if the administration pushed policies that urged companies to hire more workers. Cramer said that made Cintas a "terrific" way to play job growth , and sure enough, since the beginning of the year, Cintas' shares have rallied nearly 31 percent, outpacing the S&P 500's (.SPX) 14 percent gain over the same time frame. General Motors: Back in Style? Cramer often sees the stock market as a fashion show in which stocks fall in and out of style depending on investors' sentiments at the time. Few stocks embody this back-and-forth better than General Motors (GM), the automaker whose shares were effectively unloved from 2014 to this August, when the stock suddenly broke out. "Like wide ties, General Motors was out of style for years until very recently, the skinny tie reigned supreme but in 2017 the wide tie has made a comeback and so has the stock of GM," the "Mad Money" host said. With shares up over 25 percent since the end of August, General Motors, once a low-growth, bond-like stock, has become "beloved" by the Wall Street analyst community, Cramer said. First Horizon National CEO: Favorable Changes Trump may be having trouble passing major legislation, but some of the president's quieter changes speak volumes to companies like First Horizon National Corp. (FHN), according to Bryan Jordan, the bank's chairman and CEO. "Regulatory reform has been important for the industry and you're starting to see that with the leadership changes at the Fed and the OCC ," Jordan told Cramer in an interview on Monday . "You're starting to see the pendulum swing back more to the middle, and maybe we get some legislative change that comes out of amendment[s] to Dodd-Frank , but I don't think that's as necessary today with the regulatory reform coming from the OCC, the Fed, the FDIC and state regulatory agencies." As business confidence and outlook improve at the tail-end of economic recovery and in light of the pro-business administration, banks like Jordan's Tennessee-based company are poised to grow, the CEO said. "All in all, it's more balanced and I think that does make it an easier environment to serve your customer, serve your communities. Essentially, a bank like ours is a community-facing organization. It's a community bank with a larger balance sheet. In this environment, with this regulatory shift, it's going to be very positive for us and so I'm very encouraged by it," Jordan told Cramer. Lightning Round: An Electrified Stock? In Cramer's lightning round , he gave his take on some callers' favorite stocks: DTE Energy (DTE): "Oh, you're in a good one. That's a renaissance story and it's an absolutely great, great, great utility. I should have been behind it. I got behind ConEd (ED). That's been a good one too. And Dominion (D). But you've got a good one." Cisco Systems (CSCO): "It is a buy long term. I'm glad you emphasized 'long term,' because the company's been saying that a lot of the changes really won't hit home until 2020. In the interim, you're paid a nice yield." Disclosure: Cramer's charitable trust owns shares of Nvidia and Apple. The Daily Show brought its show to Chicago this week and they quickly turned the heat on Donald Trump's comments concerning how violent Chicago is. Trump has said, "I don't want to have thousands of people shot in a city where essentially I'm the president." Host, Trevor Noah laid into Trump saying, "I like how he says he's 'essentially the president.' No, Donald, you are the president." Noah commented that the president sees Chicago as "Syria but with different pizza," in response to Trump commenting that "Chicago is worse than some of the countries you read about in the Middle East." The Daily Show wanted to visit Chicago because they felt like it is a microcosm for the issues that the rest of the country is facing and that political pundits don't actually care about Chicago's murder rates. They only care about scoring political points. Referring to the trash talking that pundits have done during President Obama's presidency concerning violence in Chicago he said, "Oh, now I get it. When there are shootings, Obama's from Chicago. All the other times, he's from Kenya. Now it makes sense." Noah said that what was important was not whether Chicago was ranked number one in murders or number nine. What was important was stopping the murders. Fortunately, Trump had asked a police officer for advice while visiting the Windy City. Trump commented, "I said, 'how long would it take you to straighten out this problem?' He said, 'if you gave me the authority, a couple of days.'" Noah had no time for this dismissal of how complicated of an issue urban violence is. "Wow," he said, "Trump's imaginary friend can fix Chicago in a couple of days." The Daily Show With Trevor Noah went to Chicago this week and quickly turned the heat on Donald Trumps comments concerning how violent the city is. Trump has said, I dont want to have thousands of people shot in a city where essentially Im the president. Host Trevor Noah laid into Trump, saying, I like how he says hes essentially the president. No, Donald, you are the president. Noah said that the president sees Chicago as Syria but with different pizza, in response to Trumps comment that Chicago is worse than some of the countries you read about in the Middle East. The Daily Show wanted to visit Chicago because it felt like it represents a microcosm of the issues that the rest of the country is facing and that political pundits dont actually care about Chicagos murder rates, but only about scoring political points. Referring to the trash-talking that pundits did during Barack Obamas presidency concerning violence in Chicago, Noah said, Oh, now I get it. When there are shootings, Obamas from Chicago. All the other times, hes from Kenya. Now it makes sense. Noah said that what was important was not whether Chicago was ranked No. 1 in murders or No. 9. What was important was stopping the murders. Fortunately, Trump had asked a police officer for advice while visiting the Windy City. Trump commented, I said, How long would it take you to straighten out this problem? He said, If you gave me the authority, a couple of days.' Noah had no time for this dismissal of how complicated of an issue urban violence is. Wow, he said, Trumps imaginary friend can fix Chicago in a couple of days. The Daily Show airs weeknights at 11 p.m. on Comedy Central. Check out The Daily Show break down crazy Ugandan parliamentary brawl: Read more from Yahoo TV: Tell us what you think! Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, or leave your comments below. And check out our host, Kylie Mar, on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. By Julien Toyer, Angus Berwick and Sam Edwards MADRID/BARCELONA (Reuters) - Spain moved closer on Monday to imposing central rule over Catalonia to thwart its independence push as Madrid's High Court signalled a hardening line by jailing the leaders of two of the largest separatist organizations. In the first imprisonment of senior secessionist figures since Catalonia's Oct. 1 independence referendum, the court ordered the heads of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium held without bail pending an investigation for alleged sedition. Prosecutors say that the ANC's Jordi Sanchez and Omnium's Jordi Cuixart played central roles in orchestrating pro-independence protests that last month trapped national police inside a Barcelona building and destroyed their vehicles. Around 200 people flocked to the Catalan government's headquarters in Barcelona in a peaceful show of support for both men, with some chanting "Freedom" and waving "Democracy" banners. The ANC, which has organised protests of hundreds of thousands of secessionists in the past, called for further peaceful demonstrations around Catalonia on Tuesday. Catalan regional President Carles Puigdemont commented on Twitter: "Spain jails Catalonia's civil society leaders for organising peaceful demonstrations. Sadly, we have political prisoners again" -- an allusion to Spain's military dictatorship under Francisco Franco. The High Court also banned the Catalan police chief, Josep Lluis Trapero, from leaving Spain and seized his passport while he is being investigated over the same incident, though it did not order his arrest. Last Tuesday, Puigdemont stepped back from asking the Catalan parliament to vote on independence, instead making a symbolic declaration and calling for negotiations on the region's future. In a confrontation viewed with mounting alarm in European capitals and financial markets, Puigdemont failed on Monday to respond to Madrid's ultimatum to clarify whether he had declared unilateral independence in a speech last week. Story continues He now has until Thursday to back down. In a letter to Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, Puigdemont gave no direct answer on the independence issue, instead making a "sincere and honest" offer for dialogue over the next two months. In reply, Rajoy said Puigdemont's stance had brought Madrid closer to triggering Article 155 of the constitution, under which it can impose direct rule on any of the country's 17 autonomous communities if they break the law. The Catalan government's campaign to break away from Spain has pitched the country into its worst political crisis since an abortive coup attempt in 1981. On Monday the economy ministry told the EU that it had slashed its economic growth forecasts for next year partly due to the situation. The Catalan government says 90 percent of voters in the referendum backed a breakaway, but turnout was only 43 percent as most opponents of independence in the region boycotted the vote, already declared illegal by Spain's Constitutional Court. Thousands have demonstrated in Barcelona and other Spanish cities both for and against independence. So far the crisis has been largely violence-free, except for the day of the referendum when national police assaulted voters with batons and rubber bullets. The High Court ruled that Trapero, the Catalan police chief, would have his passport withdrawn but rejected a request from the state prosecutor for him to be held in custody. Trapero is a hero to the secessionists after his force took a much softer stance than national police in enforcing the ban on the referendum. Prosecutors say he failed to give orders to rescue national police trapped inside the Barcelona building. TALK TO ME, PUIGDEMONT SAYS Puigdemont last Tuesday delayed by several weeks a formal declaration of independence from Spain to allow for talks. Madrid has ruled out talks unless Puigdemont gives up the independence demand. It had given him until 10 a.m. (0800 GMT) on Monday to clarify his position with a "Yes" or "No", and until Thursday to change his mind if he insisted on a split. Following his failure to do so, a regional broadcaster said he also planned to ignore a final deadline on Thursday. Suggesting that Puigdemont and his team were in no mood to follow Rajoy's game plan, Catalan interior minister Joaquim Forn said Article 155 would not allow Madrid to remove members of the Catalan government. The article's terms on direct rule, which has never been applied, are vague. It says Madrid can "adopt any measure" to force a region to meet its constitutional obligations, with the approval of Spain's lower house. The wording suggests this could include anything from taking control of regional police and finances to installing a new governing team or calling a snap election. Underlining the deepening crisis, some of the largest companies in prosperous Catalonia, which accounts for a fifth of the Spanish economy, have already shifted head offices elsewhere and others are likely to follow if Puigdemont declares outright independence. Investors say a political split could undermine the economic rebound in Spain, the euro zone's fourth-largest economy. (Additional reporting by Isla Binnie and Raquel Castillo; Editing by Mark Heinrich and Sandra Maler) By Latifah Muhammad Three national days of mourning have been declared in Somalia as the death toll continues to climb following a barbaric attack in the capital city of Mogadishu Saturday (Oct. 14). A truck bomb detonated in the middle of a crowded street killing at least 300 and injuring hundreds more. We have confirmed 300 people died in the blast. The death toll will still be higher because some people are still missing, Abdikadir Abdirahman, the director of the citys ambulance service, confirmed Monday. The explosion is believed to be the work of terrorist group al-Shabab. More than 160 unidentified bodies were buried on Sunday, in the deadliest terror attack in Somalia since the extremist group began an insurgency in 2007, the BBC reports. The attack is also the deadliest in Africas Sub-saharan region since a 2015 attack in Kenya claimed more than 140 lives. As world leaders spoke out to condemn the attacks, the Eiffel Tower went dark at midnight Sunday in a show of solidarity with Somalia. Turkey moved early to provide medicine and medical professionals, along with airlifting dozens to the country for treatment following a request from Somali leaders, according to Somalias information minister Abdirahman Osman. over 30 injured people were flown to Turkey to receive medical assistance. Thanks to Turkey for it is readiness as always to assist #Somalia. Turkey won the hearts and minds of Somali people pic.twitter.com/aa7uI2I8x5 Abdirahman O. Osman (@engyarisow) October 16, 2017 Djibouti, Kenya and Ethiopia, which border Somalia, have also offered to send medical aid, Osman tweeted. Story continues See photos below. #Somalia hundreds of Mogadishuans at Banadir junction to donate their blood for the victims of yesterdays attack. kudos to Mogadishu pple. pic.twitter.com/IPOogmfXO5 Hussein Mohamed (@HussienM12) October 15, 2017 #Turkey is the first and the only foreign to come to the aid of #Somalia following the #MogadishuTruckBomb #MogadishuisMourning pic.twitter.com/0mlnm2FI4E Yassin Juma (@Yassinjuma) October 15, 2017 Is the world going to ignore what happened in #Somalia #MogadishuTruckBomb Death toll over 231 & 275 injured. Lets #PrayForSomalia pic.twitter.com/IhhJSRJKey Karabo Mokgoko (@Karabo_Mokgoko) October 15, 2017 Minister of Health of #Turkey arrives in #Mogadishu as a solidarity with victims of the barbaric attack on 14 October 2017 Turkey has won the hearts and minds of Somali people by providing direct support that is visible and genuine pic.twitter.com/PZ3etGu3LM Abdirahman O. Osman (@engyarisow) October 16, 2017 Doctors and medical staff from #Djibouti along with emergency supplies heading to #Mogadishu. So proud. pic.twitter.com/qnUMrjxGdV Alan Ibrahim (@Dhambaalka) October 16, 2017 Biggest Explosion heard so far in #Mogadishu,more lives lost here. pic.twitter.com/YhsPMJh0G0 Today from Somalia (@Showqi2013) October 14, 2017 This post Death Toll In Somalia Climbs After Countrys Deadliest Terror Attack In Over A Decade first appeared on Vibe. Rhonda Firestack-Harvey (left), her son, Rolland Gregg, and his ex-wife, Michelle Gregg, have been facing prison time for violating federal marijuana law. (Photo: Harvey family) The Department of Justice has agreed with defense lawyers that five Washington state residents including members of the same family who said they grew and used marijuana for medical reasons had complied with state law and that the U.S. government shouldnt have pursued federal charges against them. In a brief filed late Monday in the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, DOJ lawyers acknowledged that the department was not authorized to spend money on the prosecution of the defendants after December of 2014 because the defendants strictly complied with the Washington state medical marijuana laws. The defendants became known as the Kettle Falls Five, because of the region in eastern Washington where they live. Three have been facing prison time, following the death from cancer in 2015 of Larry Harvey the patriarch of the family in the case and a plea deal taken by family friend Jason Zucker to testify against the other defendants. The remaining three were sentenced in 2015. Rhonda Firestack-Harvey, 59, the wife of Larry Harvey, was sentenced to a year and a day in prison. Her son, Rolland Gregg, 35, was given a 33-month prison sentence, and his now ex-wife, Michelle Gregg, 38, was sentenced to a year and a day. All three also were sentenced to three years of probation. The trio have remained free as they appealed their sentences. The case received national attention as critics of the federal governments ban on marijuana blasted the DOJ for prosecuting state-registered medical marijuana growers and patients in a state where pot is legal for both medical and recreational purposes. This case has turned the justice system completely on its head, said Kari Boiter, who became a spokeswoman for the Kettle Falls Five. Here we have prosecutors admitting that its the DOJ who is breaking federal law, not the other way around. State authorities raided the Harvey family home in 2012 and found more than 70 marijuana plants growing nearby. The defendants maintained that the marijuana patch complied with state law and the plants were for their own medical use. Washington state legalized marijuana use for medical reasons in 1998 and allows the growing of it for that purpose. The state legalized recreational marijuana use in 2012. Story continues The five were originally charged with distribution of marijuana, conspiracy to distribute, and a violation of firearm laws all of which carried harsh prison sentences. Charges were dropped against Larry Harvey because of his terminal illness, and Zucker took his plea deal right the trial started. In 2015, a jury cleared the three remaining defendants of all the charges except illegal cultivation of marijuana. Twenty-nine states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories of Guam and Puerto Rico have enacted laws legalizing marijuana growth and use for medical purposes (17 other states have laws allowing limited use of cannabidiol, or CBD, the non-psychoactive ingredient in pot that holds promise for therapeutic use). Meanwhile, a federal marijuana provision that lawmakers have been renewing since it first passed in 2014, known as the Rohrabacher-Farr amendment, prohibits the DOJ from prosecuting medical marijuana operations that are legal under state laws. In 2016, the ninth circuit appeals court ruled unanimously that the Rohrabacher-Farr amendment blocks federal officials from prosecuting state-legal marijuana operators and patients. The DOJ lawyers cited that ruling in the brief filed Monday. This court determined that [Rohrabacher-Farr] prohibits the Department of Justice from spending funds for the prosecution of individuals who engaged in conduct permitted by the state medical marijuana laws and fully complied with the laws, the brief said. That prohibition, the lawyers said, extends to expenditure of DOJ funds even if the prosecution was properly initiated prior to the enactment of the Rohrbacher-Farr provision, the brief said. Despite the admissions by the from DOJ, the brief did not recommend charges be dropped against the three defendants. Instead, it urged that further proceedings in the case be bumped back to a federal district court. Still, lawyers for the family are expected to seek the cases dismissal. Lets not forget that Larry Harvey gave his life fighting for his familys freedom and spent his final months on Earth working to pass the federal law that is cited in the prosecutors new motion, Boiter said. The federal government cant give Larry back, but they can start to right this wrong by fully exonerating the surviving defendants, once and for all. Also on HuffPost Because Most Americans Are Unenthusiastic About It Only 7 percent of Americans think the United States is winning the war on drugs, and few Americans are interested in throwing down more money to try to win, according to a Rasmussen Reports poll released in 2012. Because The U.S. Won't Control The Flow Of Guns Into Latin America Mexican authorities seized almost 70,000 weapons of U.S. origin from 2007 to 2011. In 2004, the U.S. Congress declined to renew a 10-year ban on the sale of assault weapons. They quickly became the guns of choice for Mexican drug cartels. Some 60,000 people have died in Mexico since President Felipe Calderon launched a military assault on the cartels in 2006. Because The United States Leads The Hemisphere In Drug Consumption Americans have the highest rate of illegal drug consumption in the world, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Because The U.S. Ignores Latin American Calls For A Rethinking Of Drug Policy Several current and former Latin American presidents, like Fernando Henrique Cardoso, have urged the United States to rethink its failed war on drugs, to no avail. Because Of The Fast And Furious Scandal In an attempt to track guns as they moved across the U.S.-Mexico border, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms allowed smugglers to purchase weapons. The ATF lost track of the guns and they wound up in the hands of drug cartels -- even as far south as Colombia. Because American Politicians Refuse To Candidly Lead A Debate On Reforming Our Laws Though the subject of marijuana legalization regularly ranks among the most popular at the digital town halls President Obama takes part in, he declines to address the issue or give it a thoughtful answer. Incidentally, a younger Obama supported marijuana decriminalization and a rethinking of the drug war. Because The U.S. Tortures Detainees In Cuba Almost 800 prisoners accused of terrorism have have been held at the U.S. military prison of Guantanamo, Cuba, where they are detained indefinitely without facing trial. The United States has drawn international criticism from human rights defenders for subjecting the detainees there to torture and other cruel treatment. The Cuban government opposes hosting the U.S. naval base on its soil. Because The U.S. Has The World's Largest Prison Population The United States has the world's largest prison population by far -- largely fed by the war on drugs -- at 500 per 100,000 people. Because The U.S. Jails Undocumented Immigrants Guilty Of Civil Violations Because the United States imprisons roughly 400,000 immigrants each year on civil violations. Because The Border Patrol Kills Kids Who Throw Rocks The U.S. Border Patrol has come under fire for killing minors who were throwing rocks. Because The U.S. Recognized An Illegal Government In Venezuela When opponents of leftwing Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez briefly ousted him in 2002, the United States not only failed to condemn the coup, it praised the coup leaders. Because U.S. Extradition Undermines Justice In Colombia When Colombia demobilized the largest rightwing paramilitary organization in 2006, if offered lenient sentences to those who would offer details on the atrocities the AUC committed. But rather than facing justice in their home country, Colombia has extradited several paramilitary leaders to the United States to face drug trafficking charges -- marking it harder for people like Bela Henriquez to find out the details surrounding the murders of their loved ones. "More than anger, I feel powerless," Henriquez, whose father, Julio, was kidnapped and killed on the orders of one defendant, told ProPublica. "We don't know what they are negotiating, what conditions they are living under. What guarantee of justice do we have?" Because The U.S. Helped Create Today's Cartels The U.S funded the Guatemalan military during the 1960s and 1970s anti-insurgency war, despite awareness of widespread human rights violations. Among the recipients of U.S military funding and training were the Kaibiles, a special force unit responsible for several massacres. Former Kaibiles have joined the ranks of the Zetas drug cartel. Because The U.S. Backed An Argentine Military Dictatorship That Killed 30,000 People The rightwing military dictatorship that took over Argentina in 1976 "disappeared" some 30,000 people, according to estimates by several human rights organizations. They subjected countless others to sadistic forms of torture and stole dozens of babies from mothers they jailed and murdered. The military junta carried out the so-called "Dirty War" with the full knowledge and support of the Nixon administration. Because The U.S. Helped Topple The Democratically Elected Government Of Salvador Allende When it became clear that socialist Salvador Allende would likely win the presidency in Chile, U.S. President Richard Nixon told the CIA to "make the economy scream" in order to "prevent Allende from coming to power or to unseat him," according to the National Security Archive. Augusto Pinochet overthrew Allende in a bloody coup on Sept. 11, 1973, torturing and disappearing thousands of his political rivals with the backing of the U.S. government. Because the U.S. Backed A Military Coup In Brazil In 1964 The Brazilian military overthrew the democratically elected government of Joao Goulart in 1964, with the enthusiastic support of President Lyndon Johnson, ushering in two decades of repressive government. Because The U.S. Funded A Terrorist Group In Nicaragua The Reagan administration funded the Contra rebels against the Marxist Sandinista government in Nicaragua. Regarded by many as terrorists, the Contras murdered, tortured and raped civilians. When human rights organizations reported on the crimes, the Reagan administration accused them of working on behalf of the Sandinistas. Because The U.S. Helped Finance Atrocities In Colombia Through Plan Colombia, the U.S. has pumped over $6 billion into Colombia's military and intelligence service since 2002. The intelligence service has been disbanded for spying on the Supreme Court and carrying out smear campaigns against the justices, as well as journalists, members of Congress and human rights activists. The military faces numerous allegations of human rights abuse, including the practice of killing non-combatants from poor neighborhoods and dressing them up as guerrillas to inflate enemy casualty statistics. Because The U.S. Maintains A Trade Embargo Against Cuba Despite Opposition From The Entire World For 21 years, the U.N. has condemned the U.S. embargo against Cuba and for 21 years the United States has ignored it. Some 188 nations voted against the embargo this year, with only the U.S. itself, Israel, Palau opposing. Because The U.S. Engineered A Coup Against The Democratically Elected Government Of Guatemala In 1954 At the behest of United Fruit Company, a U.S. corporation with extensive holdings in Central America, the CIA helped engineer the overthrow of the Guatemalan government in 1954, ushering in decades of civil war that resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives. Because The U.S. Backed The Salvadoran Military As It Committed Atrocities In The 1980s El Salvador's military committed atrocities throughout the 1980s with U.S. funding. Because The U.S. Invaded Haiti and Occupied It For Almost 20 Years Woodrow Wilson ordered the Marines to invade and occupy Haiti in 1915 after the assassination of the Haitian president. The troops didn't leave until 1934. Because The U.S. Invaded Haiti Again In 1994 One invasion wasn't good enough. The U.S. military returned in 1994. Because The U.S. Trained Military Leaders Who Committed Atrocities In Latin America The School of the Americas in Ft. Benning, Georgia, trained soldiers and generals responsible for massacres and torture of tens of thousands of Latin Americans, according to Al Jazeera. Because The U.S. Backed Dictator Rafael Trujillo Rafael Trujillo Sr. (Photo by Hank Walker//Time Life Pictures/Getty Images) Because The U.S. Invaded Cuba And Undermined The Island's Independence The so-called "Spanish-American War" began in 1868 with the first of a series of three wars for Cuban independence. In 1898, the U.S. got involved, invading Cuba and occupying the island after forcing Spain to give it. The United States then forced Cuba to accept the odious Platt Amendent to its Constitution, which allowed the United States to intervene in the country militarily and established the U.S. military base at Guantanamo. Because The U.S. Colonized Puerto Rico As long as you're invading Cuba, why not take Puerto Rico as well? The United States invaded in 1898 and the island remains a U.S. territory today. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. President Donald Trump: AP Donald Trump has suggested his administration will take action against high prescription drug prices, saying drugmakers are getting away with murder. During a press conference at the White House, Mr Trump reiterated his desire to get the cost of prescription drugs way down, claiming that the world is taking advantage of us. The President said other countries, unlike the US, set drug prices and pay less than half of what Americans pay for the same treatments. And we want to bring our prices down to what other countries are paying, or at least close, and let the other countries pay more, Mr Trump said. Americans pay anywhere from two to six times more than the rest of the world for brand-name prescription drugs, according to the International Federation of Health Plans. Researchers have said that a large reason for this is because of the way the US health system is set up. Countries with national health programmes have government entities that negotiate drug prices. This is not the case in the US. Medicare a government insurance programme which provides coverage to about 44 million seniors is unable to negotiate prices with drugmakers. Moreover, researchers at Harvard Medical School reported in 2016 that the most important factor driving prescription drug prices higher in the US than anywhere else is the existence of government-protected monopoly rights for drug manufacturers. The US has a patent system that allows companies to remain the only manufacturer of drugs theyve patented for 20 years or more. Mr Trump has repeatedly criticised drugmakers, but there has been little indication he will crack down on prices. Democrats have also railed against the high cost of drugs. When releasing the partys economic agenda in July, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi said prescription drugs are the single largest factor driving increasing health costs in the US today. Generic pharmaceutical companies are also currently under fire from consumers, legislators, antitrust enforcers and state attorneys general for what many claim are exorbitant price hikes in recent years. Last year, multiple senators called for the Federal Trade Commission and the Senate Judiciary Committee to investigate potential antitrust violations by Mylan, which dramatically increased the price of EpiPens used to treat severe allergic reactions from $100 for a pack of two in 2009, to about $500 or $600 in 2016. (WASHINGTON) President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued a warning shot after Republican Sen. John McCain questioned half-baked, spurious nationalism in Americas foreign policy. Trump said in a radio interview with WMAL in Washington that people have to be careful because at some point I fight back. The president added Im being very, very nice but at some point I fight back and it wont be pretty. McCains answer a short time later was simply: I have faced tougher adversaries. In Philadelphia on Monday night, the six-term Republican senator from Arizona received an award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the country. In addition to recalling his more than two decades of Navy service and his imprisonment in a Vietnam prisoner of war camp, McCain took a moment to go a step further than the nights other speakers, who lamented what many described as a fractured political climate. To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems, he said, is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. He continued: We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil. McCain, who is battling brain cancer, told reporters Tuesday morning that he has had tougher fights, and then smiled. Trump said in the radio interview that McCain voted against Republican efforts to dismantle Barack Obamas Affordable Care Act. He says the vote was a shocker. McCain and Trump have long been at odds. During the campaign, Trump suggested McCain was not a war hero because he was captured in Vietnam. Montreal (AFP) - A Canadian passenger plane landed safely after it was hit by a drone in the first case of its kind in the country, a cabinet minister said Sunday. With increasing numbers of unmanned aerial devices in the skies, collisions are still rare, but authorities around the world are looking at ways to keep jetliners out of harm's way. The Canadian incident happened last Thursday when a drone collided with a domestic Skyjet plane approaching Jean-Lesage International Airport in Quebec City, Transport Minister Marc Garneau said in a statement. "This is the first time a drone has hit a commercial aircraft in Canada and I am extremely relieved that the aircraft only sustained minor damage and was able to land safely," said the minister, a former astronaut. The aircraft, carrying six passengers and two crew, was struck on its right wing at an altitude of about 450 meters (about 500 yards) and roughly three kilometers (two miles) from the airport, according to Le Journal de Quebec newspaper. Garneau reminded drone operators that anyone convicted of endangering the safety of an aircraft could face fines up to 25,000 Canadian dollars ($20,051 US), prison, or both. Canadian regulations forbid recreational drone flights above 90 meters and less than 5.5 kilometers from an airport. But Garneau said this year there have been 131 drone incidents "of aviation safety concern." More stringent drone regulations are in the works, the minister told reporters. Under upcoming rules, operators will be required to pass a test as well as list their name and address on their drone. There will also be a minimum age for using drones above a certain size. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which sets global standards for the aviation industry, counted 856 cases worldwide between January 2013 and August 2015 of a drone getting too close to a plane for comfort. It's official, Duchess Kate and Prince William have announced when we can expect the arrival of baby number 3! Today, Kensington Palace revealed that the new bundle of joy will be joining sister Charlotte, 2, and brother George, 4, in April 2018. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April 2018. pic.twitter.com/jOzB1TJMof The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) October 17, 2017 Royal fans are crossing their fingers for an April 29th arrival date to help Kate and William celebrate their anniversary. Because Kate suffers from Hyperemesis Gravidarum, Kensington Palace announced the royal pregnancy early -- only a few days into September. The condition causes severe morning sickness and dehydration, forcing the Duchess to pull out of a number of engagements, including missing Prince George's first day of school. Given Kate's state, the Palace postponed part of next month's royal tour of Norway, Sweden and Finland. Instead, Prince William will make the two-day trip to Finland alone in late November, while the two will visit Sweden and Norway in early 2018. Related: Inside the Duchess' maternity style: Last month, while Prince William gave a worrisome update on her condition, he did hint that the new baby may be arriving sooner than we thought! "All the best with the midwifery, I may see you sooner than you think," he told a midwife at a royal engagement. It seems that the Duchess, however, is feeling better. Last week, she showed off her baby bump in her first engagement since the pregnancy announcement. And just yesterday, the Duchess made headlines for her adorable dance with Paddington the Bear. Related: Kate dances with Paddington (Adds other EU ministers, detail) By Gabriela Baczynska and Robert-Jan Bartunek LUXEMBOURG/BRUSSELS, Oct 16 (Reuters) - European Union ministers on Monday congratulated Austria's Sebastian Kurz on his election victory but some were uneasy about the far-right, eurosceptic party that may enter the new government and has clashed with the bloc before. The Freedom Party (FPO) got around 26 percent of votes in Sunday's parliamentary vote, boosted by a European migration crisis in 2015 that affected Austria and also led Kurz to campaign on an anti-migration platform. "I don't have a problem with Sebastian Kurz as a person. We're not following the same line politically, that has never been the case and it never will be," Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn said on arriving to talks with his EU peers. He listed pro-European Austrian politicians as role models for Kurz and warned Vienna not to side with migration hardliners, including Hungary, whose government is also eurosceptic. Austria became a member of the European Union in 1995 after voting in favour of joining the bloc with a two-thirds majority. Recent opinion polls suggest three quarters of Austrians want the country to stay in the bloc. While the FPO had been a member of socialist-led governments in the 1980s, the anti-immigrant rhetoric of party leader Joerg Haider led to fierce criticism from EU neighbours when his party joined a government with the Christian Democrat OVP in 2000. The EU's 14 other member states at that time reduced bilateral cooperation with Austria until a report by senior diplomats found that the country's respect for human rights had not been diminished since the FPO joined the government. The party demanded a referendum only last year to exit the EU, as Britain is doing now. The FPO has toned down its anti-EU rhetoric in recent months but continues to call for weaker members to leave the euro zone and Austria to pay less into the common EU budget. Story continues Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, entering the same talks in Luxembourg in which Kurz would normally also take part, said the 31-year-old Austrian conservative was his friend. "We are happy that a sister party of ours won the elections ... and we are happy that their candidate has won who in many cases represented similar positions regarding migration to the Hungarian government," Szijjarto told reporters. Szijjarto expected that the anti-immigration eastern EU states - Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic - to work more closely with Austria now, which would only deepen the east-west divides weakening the bloc's unity. As Austria turns to the right, the bloc's top official dealing with EU's ties vis-a-vis its neighbours, Commissioner Johannes Hahn of Austria, sought to ease concerns that Vienna may become a new enfant terrible in the bloc. "One should not forget that only a year ago Austria elected the first Green president and now it looks as if the Greens will be kicked out of parliament. There is a huge volatility among voters," Hahn said in Luxembourg. "Each government will have a very pro-European agenda because all the major political parties are very much committed to the European Union," he added. (Additional reporting by Robin Emmott; Writing by Gabriela Baczynska; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg) Luxembourg (AFP) - The EU is to dispatch its chief diplomat Federica Mogherini to Washington next month to fight for the Iran nuclear deal after US President Donald Trump threatened to tear it up. EU foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg on Monday joined a chorus of international support for the landmark 2015 accord, warning that Trump's hardline stance was jeopardising efforts to find a peaceful solution to the nuclear crisis with North Korea. Trump caused alarm across the Atlantic with a belligerent speech on Friday in which he stopped short of pulling out of the agreement but warned he could do so at any time, restating his belief that the deal was letting Iran off the hook. He left it to the US Congress to decide whether to reimpose sanctions that were lifted in return for Tehran abandoning its nuclear ambitions. Mogherini, the EU's foreign policy head, said she would "be in Washington in early November" to urge US lawmakers not to pull out of the deal, known officially as the JCPOA, which was negotiated with Iran over 12 painstaking years by the US, Britain, France, China, Germany and Russia. Ditching the deal when Tehran has repeatedly been certified as keeping up its end of the bargain by UN inspectors would send a signal to North Korea that negotiating with the international community is a waste of time, EU ministers fear. "Clearly the ministers are concerned about the fact that messages on the JCPOA might affect negatively the possibility of opening negotiations or opening even the space for negotiations with the DPRK," Mogherini told reporters after the bloc's 28 foreign ministers held talks in Luxembourg. German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said Trump's hardline stance risked dragging the world back to a "military confrontation" with Iran. "The threatened termination of the deal with Iran of course undermines the credibility of such international treaties," he said. Story continues - N.Korean army blacklisted - The Luxembourg meeting signed off on a new package of EU sanctions aimed at punishing Pyongyang for its recent nuclear and ballistic missile tests and drying up revenue streams it needs for its weapons programmes. North Korea's army and armed forces ministry were both added to the sanctions blacklist, meaning any assets they hold in the EU will be frozen. The EU hopes economic pressure will help bring the North to the bargaining table, but Mogherini said that undermining the Iran deal would make it harder to persuade the North to talk. "Obviously any step that fragilises the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture elsewhere makes our work more difficult on DPRK," she said, referring to the North's official name of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The warnings from Europe come after US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson argued that Trump's stance sent a message to North Korea that Washington would insist on a "very demanding agreement" with Pyongyang. The leaders of France, Britain and Germany gave a rebuke to Trump in a joint statement on Friday which said the deal remained "in our shared national security interest". Russia and China also voiced their support for the agreement. The UN's atomic agency has repeatedly certified that Iran is sticking to its technical requirements under the accord, but Trump has insisted that the "fanatical regime" in Tehran is not living up to the "spirit" of the deal. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian warned that any rupture would be "extremely damaging". - Intense lobbying - EU officials have already been lobbying members of Congress not to turn their backs on the accord, which was endorsed unanimously by the UN Security Council. In a statement after Monday's talks, the EU ministers said they saw Trump's refusal to certify the deal on Friday as "being in the context of an internal US process". The deal is working successfully to "ensure that Iran's nuclear programme remains exclusively peaceful", the ministers said. Diplomats say that European powers share some of Trump's concerns about Iran's activities not covered by the nuclear deal -- notably its ballistic missile programme and involvement in numerous Middle East conflicts, including the war in Syria. But they say these should be dealt with in other forums and warn it would be a calamitous mistake to sacrifice the achievement of the nuclear deal. A federal court in Maryland was the second to block President Donald Trumps third and most extensive initiative to limit travel into the United States on Wednesday. A Hawaii judge blocked the ban the day before, just hours before it was set to go into effect. It represents an extricable re-animation of the twice-enjoined Muslim ban, Maryland District Judge Theodore D. Chuang said. His ruling is somewhat smaller in scope than that of his Hawaii counterpart, Judge Derrick Watson. It applies only to those who couldnt prove a bona fide relationship with a family member or entity in the U.S. The International Refugee Assistance Project, the Iranian Alliances Across Borders and various individual plaintiffs, including the state of Hawaii, filed lawsuits in Hawaii and Maryland after the travel ban which would indefinitely ban citizens from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen from entering the country was announced on Sept. 24. They view this ban as yet another thinly veiled attempt to target Muslims (six out of the eight countries on the list are Muslim-majority). EO-3 suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the entry of more than 150 million nationals from six specified countries would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, the Hawaii court order said. The ban also plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the Ninth Circuit has found antithetical to both Section 1152(a) and the founding principles of this Nation, it noted. Non-visa holders from most of the countries listed have already been banned for the last several months, after the Supreme Court ruled to allow parts of a previous travel ban to go into effect in June. The latest initiative removed Sudan from the list, and added Chad, North Korea and Venezuela. It was planned to go into effect Wednesday. Omar Jadwat, who is the director of the American Civil Liberty Unions Immigrants Rights Project and was among those arguing the case in Maryland, called Trumps ban illegal and unconstitutional. Story continues Were glad, but not surprised, that President Trumps illegal and unconstitutional Muslim ban has been blocked once again, Jadwat said. Like the plaintiffs in the Hawaii case, we are working to ensure the ban never takes effect. Making America Safe is my number one priority. We will not admit those into our country we cannot safely vet.https://t.co/KJ886okyfC Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 24, 2017 The changes were interpreted by many as mere political posturing an attempt to make the ban appear less overtly targeted toward Muslims. Each new version is just an updated version of the previous ones, and they all have one goal: to keep out people primarily from majority-Muslim countries, Becca Heller, head of the International Refugee Assistant Project, said Monday. We will not rest until this cruel and senseless policy is blocked for good. A White House statement released Tuesday afternoon called the Hawaii court order dangerously flawed and noted the travel ban was issued after an extensive worldwide security review. The entry restrictions in the proclamation apply to countries based on their inability or unwillingness to share critical information necessary to safely vet applications, as well as a threat assessment related to terrorism, instability, and other grave national security concerns, the White House said. These restrictions are vital to ensuring that foreign nations comply with the minimum security standards required for the integrity of our immigration system and the security of our Nation. The Department of Homeland Security will comply with any lawful judicial order, acting secretary Elaine Duke said in a statement, adding that they look forward to prevailing in this matter upon appeal. She said the requirements are essential to securing the homeland. An activist in Los Angeles holds a sign on Oct. 15 during a protest against President Donald Trump's travel ban. (Photo: NurPhoto via Getty Images) The new orders doesnt directly implicate the U.S. refugee resettlement program because the Trump administration had already taken measures to limit the number of refugees able to seek safety in the country. The 120-day suspension included in the second iteration of the ban expires on Oct. 24. Experts dont think the White House will replace it with a new refugee ban because the administration already slashed the annual resettlement ceiling to 45,000 for fiscal year 2018, the lowest its been since the programs inception in 1980. The series of limits placed on immigration places tens of thousands of people already in the resettlement pipeline in limbo. Plus, it precludes so many more from being able to begin the process. For Amir Abbasi, 33, the uncertainty has been excruciating. (He asked for his name to be changed out of fear of persecution by authorities in his home country.) He and his partner fled Iran due to the persecution they faced for being gay. They illegally traveled to Turkey in 2014 and first went through the Canadian refugee pipeline. They were told the country couldnt handle any more cases, so earlier this year they began the process with the U.S. program. After one pre-screening interview, they stopped hearing from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. He no longer holds hope that his U.S. application will lead to anything, he said. He doesnt know where to go or what to do. Life in Turkey is very hard, he said. We dont have any access to job markets legally. Most LGBT refugees dont have access to funds from their families. And if you work illegally you might be arrested and you might be deported to Iran. This story has been updated to include the Maryland federal court ruling. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. A scary moment up in the air turned even more horrific as passengers aboard a plummeting plane claimed the flight crew started freaking out. AirAsia flight QZ535 left from Perth, Australia Sunday and headed to Bali, Indonesia. However, shortly after takeoff the plane dropped almost 23,800 feet in nine minutes, according to the Associated Press. SEE ALSO: Scared of flying? For the love of God, don't watch this video. The pressurization issue in the cabin prompted oxygen masks to drop from the ceiling amid emergency announcements from the crew, which were apparently far from calm. One passenger, Clare Askew, said that, "The panic was escalated because of the behavior of staff who were screaming, looked tearful and shocked." Another passenger told news outlets, "They went hysterical. There was no real panic before that. Then everyone panicked." Videos posted to social media showed the chaos. An aviation expert says AirAsia should not be allowed to fly in and out of Australia until it meets safety standards. @DamoNews #9News pic.twitter.com/q7MTxylzRt Nine News Australia (@9NewsAUS) October 16, 2017 Adding to the onboard confusion were emergency announcements coming in in different languages so not all passengers were clear on what was going on. 12) What happened on board the #QZ535 is what Airbus had warned about in a note published in 2007, that the overall aviation industry does not provide sufficient training to flight crew and cabin crew for cabin decompression awareness CaptRahmat (@CaptRahmat) October 16, 2017 The airline has apologized for the incident that shook the 145 passengers on board. A mechanical issue apparently caused the cabin to depressurize and forced pilots to descend. The flight is under investigation. Story continues One passenger desperately messaged her family thinking the flight was doomed, Australian outlet SBS reported. Not a smooth flight. White nationalist Richard Spencer, whose divisive rhetoric about immigrants, minorities and women has been denounced vociferously by civil rights groups, is speaking at a University of Florida campus on Thursday, and the state is working hard to avoid a melee from erupting. Florida Governor Rick Scott signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency Monday ahead of Spencers appearance in city of Gainesville, where the campus is situated. We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion; however, we have zero tolerance for violence, and public safety is always our number one priority, said Scott about the order in a statement, which was issued following a request made by Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell. I have been in constant contact with Sheriff Darnell, who has requested this executive order to ensure that county and local law enforcement have every needed resource. Scott says the order is a precautionary measure. This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe, he explained in the release. Prior Spencer appearances in states like Virginia and Texas have sparked protests and counterprotests resulting in episodes of violence, civil unrest and multiple arrests, according to Scott. On August 12, at the site of another college campus, the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Spencer was among one of the scheduled speakers for a white nationalist event that never really got off the ground after a white man who allegedly voiced sympathy for Nazism rammed his car into a crowd of counterprotesters, killing anti-racist activist Heather Heyer. The incident sparked a nationwide debate about free speech. Newsweek spoke to Spencer about his tactics, which activists have compared to "terrorism," and his recruiting techniques, which primarily target disaffected white men. Referring to his mistrust of democracy, he questioned whether women should have a right to vote. Story continues I dont necessarily think that thats a great thing, Spencer said of women voting in U.S. elections. Related Articles Provo, Utah gave me feminism. It gave it to me like a gift wrapped up in so much brown paper and string. When I tell people this, Im met with one of two reactions. Sometimes they laugh because they think Im joking. Other times they go silent, suddenly concerned I am one of those women who says shes a feminist while insisting real feminism advocates for a pilgrimage to some birth control-devoid pastoral idyll. I get the disbelief. I really do. Provo is a different place. Its this little bubbling pot of Mormon history, culture and myth all simmered together until it can, at times, be difficult to separate each component from the other. I always try to plead my case. Hear me out, I say while the listener slowly backs away from me. Yes, I know about every damaging policy at BYU. (Among other things, banned leggings, an honor code that was easily exploited to hide sexual assault and, of course, the only recently lifted prohibition on caffeinated drinks. Okay, maybe that last one was more annoying than actually harmful.) And sure, Im very concerned about how MLMs thrive in the Happy Valley while really leaving their majority female consultants desperate and debt-ridden. And definitely, there are patriarchal excesses fermented in both Mormon and American culture that sometimes ooze out onto the sidewalks and stick your feet to the ground just when you think youve finally begun to move forward. And yeah, shoot dammit, even after great hope to the contrary, Provo ended up voting for a misogynist in the last election. I know. But the women! I cry, The Provo women! Just wait. Let me tell you about the women. It was in Provo that I gave birth to two little girls and rejoiced that I could hand them a Mormon faith without walls. At 20, I was fairly certain I knew what it meant to be a faithful Mormon woman. I could have drawn you a detailed map of the landscape of True Mormon Womanhood without pausing to look to my head or my heart. I thought True Mormon Womanhood was a small, square place cut through the middle with a river named Sacrifice. This river was wide, and off one bank it watered a forest called Historical Polygamy Doesnt Make Sense But Youve Got To Accept It (a dark, critter-filled outcropping if ever Ive stumbled into one). The terrain was interrupted by two mountain ranges, one christened Its Not Mine To Ask, and the other Without A Shadow Of A Doubt. There was a wall along each border, for at that point I believed Mormon Womanhood was a thing to be kept safe from the outside world. The walls were respectively named Preventative Modesty, What Men Think, Divinely Appointed Duties and Things You Cry Over But Are Afraid To Talk To Anybody About. Story continues I wasnt always comfortable with the sometimes-brutal topography of True Mormon Womanhood, but I was certain of its unchanging nature. And then I moved to Provo. A place where just one street brimmed with more Mormon women than Id ever met in the entire course of my very Mormon life. I thought theyd all be navigating the same terrain I was. But shockingly, not all of their maps held the outline of a square-shaped womanhood. Some of them walked around as Mormon women without any map at all! And gasp of all gasps, there were many I bumped into who had happily left Mormonism for new, uncharted places. I know that doesnt sound like much of a revelation, but for me it was seismic. Within just a few months of living in Provo, the well-trod landscape of correct female existence had shifted and cracked apart into something more complex, wild and winding. I spent 10 years in Provo. It was there during park playdates with toddlers, girls nights out and tired conversations on front porches that I was first introduced to nuanced arguments on behalf of abortion rights, met with wonder at the reality of working mothers who adored both their children and their jobs and was made to confront the destructive details in the historical records of both my religion and my country. It was in Provo that I gave birth to two little girls and rejoiced that I could hand them a Mormon faith without walls. A 28-year-old mother of three who was born and raised in Provo was the first person to give me the space to consider my feelings on the place of women within my church and within America. An impassioned Sunday school lesson on the destructiveness of purity culture, given by a female member of BYU faculty, helped me realize my intrinsic worth might not be tied, even the littlest tiny bit, to what I did with my body. I lived on three different streets during my decade in Provo, and each provided Mormon mother women, neighbors and fellow church members a few decades older than me who bared their pain and questions without shame. They allowed me to bare mine, too. Heavens (or hell), even the always-eager-but-rarely-profitable women selling oils and lipsticks and leggings that stretch (but were still not BYU-approved) forced me to confront the very limited options my church culture and our government policies leave for women who wish to help provide for their families while remaining overwhelmingly present in their everyday lives. Of course, it wasnt all sisterhood that lifts. There were women who thought my continued membership in the Mormon church voided my participation in matters regarding womens rights. I understood and at times felt much of their anger and pain. I struggled, still struggle, to help them understand my desire to remain within the community of the church. And there were women for whom Mormon Womanhood was still a square and walled-off place. That was just fine. It still is. I cant map their world. But some felt it was their God-given duty to help people like me remember where the angles were meant to meet. I was told by both groups, patiently and sometimes not so patiently, that someday I would understand the true and right nature of things. Even this conflict of ideals and ideology broadened me. I learned in Provo that women were not made to agree with each other, with men or with the institutions they revere or fear. I learned in Provo that women were not made to agree with each other, with men or with the institutions they revere or fear. It was in Provo I learned to love women wildly different from me, and it was in Provo that I learned to love the woman I am still becoming, even though she is wildly different from what Id always been told to expect. For me, a natural result of this love has been a feminism as expansive as my now discarded map of womanhood was restrictive. My family and I left Provo for the Bay Area three years ago. We moved to a community that has accepted us and instructed us with equal measures of grace. We love it here. Last week, I took a new friend out for lunch. When she found out wed lived in Provo until just a few years ago, she hooted. I cant imagine what that must have been like. I smiled and then said, Well, first let me tell you about the women there. Ankara (AFP) - Four Turkish soldiers were killed in northern Iraq in two separate attacks blamed on Kurdish militants, the Turkish military said on Tuesday. Five other soldiers were injured when two improvised explosive devices exploded on Monday in the Zap region of northern Iraq, not far from Turkey's southeastern border. The army blamed a "separatist terrorist organisation" -- Turkey's official term for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) -- for the blasts. Clashes broke out immediately after the first of the attacks, the military said, as it reported it had killed 16 PKK members in air strikes in the past 24 hours. It was not possible to independently verify the toll. Since the PKK launched its insurgency in Turkey in 1984, over 40,000 people have been killed. The group is blacklisted as a terrorist organisation by Ankara, the United States and the European Union. After the collapse of a two-year ceasefire in 2015, Turkish military operations against the PKK intensified in southeastern Turkey. Turkey regularly conducts air raids against PKK militants who have rear bases in the Qandil mountain area of Iraq, while Turkish ground troops sometimes stage incursions into the area. The incident comes at a time of high tensions in Iraq following the controversial non-binding independence vote held by Iraqi Kurdistan last month, which was bitterly opposed by Turkey and Baghdad. The blasts took place outside areas held by the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government. The Trump administration has pushed its tax framework with a big emphasis on middle class Americans. But polls show that fewer than 20% of people actually believe that message. Director of the National Economic Council (NEC) Gary Cohn told Yahoo Finance the uncertainty from people is because the details havent been ironed out yet, but he said the framework is totally about middle class Americans. Cohn also defended the proposal to repeal the estate tax as an effort to help small business. The estate tax really hits farmers, and we dont want to hit farmers. It hits small and medium-sized family-owned businesses, Cohn said. We want to make multigenerational businesses. We want those small and medium-sized businesses and those farmers to go out and hire people, grow the economy, and expand, and not be worried about death being a taxable event. We want them to really grow the economy. However, the Tax Policy Center estimates that only about 80 farms and closely-held businesses are expected to pay the estate tax this year. Furthermore, they estimate only about 5,000 families are expected to pay the estate tax, and the first $5.49 million for individuals and $11 million for couples are not taxed. Even Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin conceded at the Institution for International Finance Conference last week that cutting the estate tax disproportionately helps rich people. Were all entitled to our opinions, but wealthy people have enormous amount of opportunity to tax-plan today, and they can do enormous amount of things with their wealth and their assets and trusts, and the tax system has allowed people to legally plan for death and avoid estate tax, Cohn told Yahoo Finance. Where we see the vast majority of people getting caught up in the estate tax are really farms, are small businesses that grow into big businesses. Director of the National Economic Council Gary Cohn tells Nicole Sinclair the Trump administrations tax outline is about the middle class and that the estate tax repeal proposal is about closely-held businesses The administrations Unified Framework includes elements that many economists have described as focused on the wealthiest Americans. These include cutting the top individual tax rate, a repeal of the estate tax and the alternative minimum tax, a creation of a loophole that would allow wealthy people to act as small businesses, and a cut in corporate taxes. Story continues And the non-partisan Tax Policy Center estimates that about 80% of the total benefit would go to taxpayers in the top 1%, whose after-tax income would increase 8.7% while many middle-income taxpayers would actually pay more. Cohn did seem to leave the room open to some flexibility as the tax bill gets written. Weve now given it to the tax writers in the House and in the Senate to come up with the final tax bill. We are flexible on many of these areas, to make sure we deliver a middle income tax cut, and make sure we make America competitive on the tax front, Cohn said. We are happy to see where they come out. Were not gonna prejudge where they come out on any one particular area. Nicole Sinclair is markets correspondent at Yahoo Finance For more from Yahoo Finances interview with Gary Cohn, please see: Gary Cohn: We wont put conditions on repatriated cash, and were fine with stock buybacks Gary Cohn: We have to have a permanent change in the tax system Gary Cohn: Heres how I expect corporate tax cuts to spur growth Other articles: Companies say they would use repatriated earnings to buy back stock The lack of chaos has been brutal for Wall Street trading desks One-third of retirees end up getting full-time jobs Credit Suisses new strategist unveils bullish 2018 market call General Motors plans to test vehicles in fully autonomous mode in New York in early 2018, according to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. The tests will include the first autonomous vehicles in Manhattan. The planned testing by GM and its self-driving unit, Cruise Automation, will be the first by a Level 4 autonomous vehicle in the state, Cuomo said in a statement. Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer said in a statement, "New York is the ultimate proving ground for autonomous vehicle technology. We have a streetscape that is unrivaled in its scale and complexity, and so it's fitting that General Motors and Cruise Automation are finally bringing this technology here for testing and development." A Level 3 car still needs a steering wheel and a driver who can take over if the car encounters a problem, while Level 4 promises driverless features in dedicated lanes. A Level 5 vehicle is capable of navigating roads without any driver input and in its purest form would have no steering wheel or brakes. GM and Cruise Automation will begin conducting tests in Manhattan with an engineer in the driver's seat to monitor the performance, and a second person in the passenger seat, the statement said. Reporting by Ankit Ajmera Related Video: GM to be the first to test self-driving cars in NYC originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Oct 2017 14:05:00 EDT. The mothers of military service members killed in Iraq and Afghanistan called President Donald Trumps delayed response to the deaths of U.S. soldiers in Niger an abdication of his first duty as commander in chief to recognize the sacrifices of the troops and their families. All the families want to know is that their loved ones mattered, that their life mattered. When you dont even acknowledge the sacrifice or the death, then its like you dont even care, Karen Meredith said on Tuesday. Merediths son, Army 1st Lt. Ken Ballard, died in Iraq on Memorial Day 2004. I dont know whats more important of a job as the commander in chief than to acknowledge the sacrifice of one of his military members, Meredith added. Meredith, who is active in the progressive veterans advocacy group, VoteVets, recalled receiving a letter from then-President George W. Bush and then-Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld when her son was killed. Bushs note was a little bit informal, which she did not like, Meredith said. He addressed her by her first name, rather than as Ms. Meredith. But at least he sent something unlike the current president, she said. The grieving families of slain service members receive many letters from the military and gestures of support from the community of Gold Star families, according to Meredith. So nobodys sitting around waiting for letters from the president, but the president shouldnt be the last one to write or to contact the family, she said. Most Gold Star families expect a timely letter but not a phone call from the president, according to Stephanie Fisher, whose son, Army Staff Sgt. Thomas Fogerty, was killed in Afghanistan in February 2012. Fisher said she received a letter from then-President Barack Obama within a weeks time. The families of those who died while serving in elite military units are more likely to receive a phone call, said Fisher, who is also active in VoteVets. It appeared from Trumps comments that he had not even reached out to the families of our Green Berets and these are our elite special forces, Fisher said. You would think that Trump would have the families on the phone to thank the families and say, Im really sorry. Story continues Two Gold Star mothers suggested that President Donald Trump should have acknowledged the Green Berets' sacrifice sooner. (Photo: JASON CONNOLLY/AFP/Getty Images) Trump was criticized on Monday when he claimed that most previous presidents, including Obama, did not make phone calls to the families of troops killed in action. In fact, Obama called, wrote and met with many Gold Star families and frequently visited wounded and disabled veterans at Walter Reed Medical Center. That just wasnt true. I found it offensive, Fisher said of Trumps specific jab at Obama. Michelle DeFord, another VoteVets activist, appreciated the kind treatment she received from President Obama and the first lady years after the death of her son, Oregon National Guard Sgt. David Johnson, in Iraq in September 2004. Michelle Obama wrote DeFord a letter asking for a photo of her son to put on one of the ornaments decorating a White House Christmas tree. That was so nice to me that his face would be on a Christmas ornament in the White House, DeFord recalled. Trumps remarks at Mondays press conference were his first about an Oct. 4 ambush in Niger in which four Green Berets were killed. The attack was the single deadliest incident for U.S. troops since he became president. He said that he had written letters to the families of the four men over the weekend, which would soon be sent to them, and that he planned to call them as well. The toughest calls I have to make are the calls where this happens. Soldiers are killed. Its a very difficult thing, Trump said. Meredith suggested that the families of the Green Berets might have appreciated receiving his sympathies earlier. It often takes 10 days for the bodies of fallen service members to be returned to their loved ones, she said, so they are probably just getting to holding funerals now. They dont want to hear from the president on the day of the funeral, she said. Meredith brushed off Trumps remarks about how difficult it is for him to call families in mourning. Put yourself in my place: How do you think I felt getting those letters? Ken was my only child, she said. This story has been updated with comment from more Gold Star mothers. Also on HuffPost A man holds up a sign during a protest against racism gathered in front of the White House, on August 14, 2017 in Washington, DC. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue near Trump Tower. Hundreds of protesters gather outside of Trump Tower. A woman raises her fist at the front of a march down Washington Avenue to protest racism and the violence over the weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue near Trump Tower ahead of President Donald Trump's arrival, August 14, 2017 in New York City. Supporters of anti-Trump protestors hold up signs inside Trump Tower ahead of President Donald Trump's arrival, August 14, 2017 in New York City. Pedestrians walk past a 15-foot tall inflatable rat in the likeness of U.S. President Donald Trump at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 59th Street up the road from Trump Tower, August 14, 2017 in New York City. A President Donald Trump supporter (left) argues with anti-Trump protesters as they gather outside of Trump Tower. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue near Trump Tower. Hundreds of protesters gather outside of Trump Tower. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue. A man holds up a sign during a protest against racism in front of the White House. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Gretchen Carlson thinks the recent allegations against Harvey Weinstein are the tipping point that could finally help dismantle the culture of sexual harassment in workplaces around the country. On Monday, the news anchor and author spoke to USA Today about the dozens of accusations of assault, harassment and sexual misconduct against Weinstein. What were seeing happening now with the Harvey Weinstein revelations, to me this is the watershed moment, she said. This is the tipping point Ive been working so hard for over the last 15 months. People are finally saying enough. Carlson was one of the first women to file a lawsuit against then-Fox News CEO Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. Since coming forward with her story, Carlson has become an outspoken advocate against sexual harassment and recently wrote a book titled Be Fierce. Gretchen Carlson attends 2017 Matrix Awards at the Sheraton New York Times Square on April 24, 2017 in New York City. (Photo: John Lamparski via Getty Images) Theres no way that situations like this could continue for that long without other people knowing about it and covering it up. And that is happening all over the place, Carlson said. And thats why I feel like this is the tipping point. Now that women feel empowered to come forward its going to be in other professions as well. Carlson added that this moment is so powerful because its allowing women the space to realize theyre not alone in their experiences of sexual harassment. Maybe [women coming forward with stories of harassment] wont get the same attention as a huge Hollywood mogul, she said. But theres a ton of women sitting at home right now saying Oh my gosh, Im going to do that now. And there are probably a lot of sexual harassers sitting at home going oh no. During a Washington Post event earlier on Monday, Carlson revealed that she experienced sexual harassment prior to her experiences with Ailes. Carlson said it was during her first job, right after she had just covered Anita Hills testimony, when she was sexually harassed by her cameraman: I was with my cameraman in a rural part of Virginia, and we were covering a story, and when we got back into the car together, he started asking me how I had liked it when he touched my breasts when he was putting my microphone on. And it went on from there... The sheer panic that women go through when you face something like that... I literally thought to myself about rolling outside of the passenger door at 40 miles an hour, like Id seen people do in the movies, and wondered how much it would hurt. (Watch the full exchange above.) Story continues She said that when she returned to the newsroom later that day she was a shaking mess. Luckily my boss a man kept approaching me and saying, What is wrong with you? What happened? And I didnt want to tell him either because I was new on the job, Carlson continued. It was the whole shame thing that women go through: What did I do to bring this on? This is what women feel, this is how weve been socialized to feel about this. If it wasnt for the tenacity of [my boss] I dont know what wouldve happened. Related... Gretchen Carlson's Fight Against Sexual Harassment Is Just Beginning Did Harvey Weinstein Sexually Harass You? These Are The Women Who Have Accused Harvey Weinstein Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. (WASHINGTON) It was a faint signal, but it told of one of the most violent acts in the universe, and it would soon reveal secrets of the cosmos, including how gold was created. Astronomers around the world reacted to the signal quickly, focusing telescopes located on every continent and even in orbit to a distant spot in the sky. What they witnessed in mid-August and revealed Monday was the long-ago collision of two neutron stars a phenomenon California Institute of Technologys David H. Reitze called the most spectacular fireworks in the universe. When these things collide, all hell breaks loose, he said. Measurements of the light and other energy emanating from the crash have helped scientists explain how planet-killing gamma ray bursts are born, how fast the universe is expanding, and where heavy elements like platinum and gold come from. This is getting everything you wish for, said Syracuse University physics professor Duncan Brown, one of more than 4,000 scientists involved in the blitz of science that the crash kicked off. This is our fantasy observation. It started in a galaxy called NGC 4993, seen from Earth in the Hydra constellation. Two neutron stars, collapsed cores of stars so dense that a teaspoon of their matter would weigh 1 billion tons, danced ever faster and closer together until they collided, said Carnegie Institution astronomer Maria Drout. The crash, called a kilonova, generated a fierce burst of gamma rays and a gravitational wave, a faint ripple in the fabric of space and time, first theorized by Albert Einstein. The signal arrived on Earth on Aug. 17 after traveling 130 million light-years. A light-year is 5.88 trillion miles. NASAs Fermi telescope, which detects gamma rays, sent out the first alarm. Then, 1.7 seconds later, gravity wave detectors in Louisiana and Washington state that are a part of the LIGO Laboratory, whose founders won a Nobel Prize earlier this month, detected the crash. It issued a worldwide alert to focus telescopes on what became the most well-observed astronomical event in history. Story continues Before August, the only other gravity waves detected by LIGO were generated by colliding black holes. But black holes let no light escape, so astronomers could see nothing. This time there was plenty to see, measure and analyze: matter, light, and other radiation. The Hubble Space Telescope even got a snapshot of the afterglow. The completeness of this picture from the beginning to the end is unprecedented, said Columbia University physics professor Szabolcs Marka. There are many, many extraordinary discoveries within the discovery. The colliding stars spewed bright blue, super-hot debris that was dense and unstable. Some of it coalesced into heavy elements, like gold, platinum and uranium. Scientists had suspected neutron star collisions had enough power to create heavier elements, but werent certain until they witnessed it. We see the gold being formed, said Syracuses Brown. Calculations from a telescope measuring ultraviolet light showed that the combined mass of the heavy elements from this explosion is 1,300 times the mass of Earth. And all that stuff including lighter elements was thrown out in all different directions and is now speeding across the universe. Perhaps one day the material will clump together into planets the way ours was formed, Reitze said maybe ones with rich veins of precious metals. We already knew that iron came from a stellar explosion, the calcium in your bones came from stars and now we know the gold in your wedding ring came from merging neutron stars, said University of California Santa Cruzs Ryan Foley. The crash also helped explain the origins of one of the most dangerous forces of the cosmos short gamma ray bursts, focused beams of radiation that could erase life on any planet that happened to get in the way. These bursts shoot out in two different directions perpendicular to where the two neutron stars first crash, Reitze said. Luckily for us, the beams of gamma rays were not focused on Earth and were generated too far away to be a threat, he said. Scientists knew that the universe has been expanding since the Big Bang. By using LIGO to measure gravitational waves while watching this event unfold, researchers came up with a new estimate for how fast that is happening, the so-called Hubble Constant. Before this, scientists came up with two slightly different answers using different techniques. The rough figure that came out of this event is between the original two, Reitze said. The first optical images showed a bright blue dot that was very hot, which was likely the start of the heavy element creation process amid the neutron star debris, Drout said. After a day or two that blue faded, becoming much fainter and redder. And after three weeks it was completely gone, she said. Scientists involved with the search for gravitational waves said this was the event they had prepared for over more than 20 years. The findings are of spectacular importance, said Penn State physicist Abhay Ashtekar, who wasnt part of the research. This is really brand new. The Academy has claimed the era of shameful complicity in sexually predatory behavior is over with its expulsion of Harvey Weinstein, despite retaining several members accused of sexual abuse on its roster. A number of people in the movie industry, including the actress Emma Thompson, have suggested the string of sexual assault allegations against Weinstein are just the tip of the iceberg. Speaking to the BBC, Thompson said: I dont know about these things [the specific allegations against Weinstein], but they dont surprise me at all and theyre endemic to the system anyway. Indeed, Hollywood is no stranger to rumors about the casting couch as well as documented allegations of harassment, and over the years a number of powerful men in the industry have faced allegations of sexual assault without seeing such repercussions. In 1977, the director Roman Polanski was arrested and charged over the rape of a 13-year-old girl, accepting a plea bargain of unlawful sexual intercourse before fleeing the country to avoid jail timeand continues to live abroad in places that will not extradite him to the U.S. Roman Polanski Mateusz Skwarczek/Agencja Gazeta/Reuters But the career of Polanski, who is a member of The Academy, has not suffered as a result of the charges leveled against him; since 1977 he has been handed a best director Oscar for The Pianist in 2002, which also won a string of other awards including a BAFTA for best film; and more recently a European Film Award for Best Director in 2010 for The Ghost Writer. Although membership of The Academy is largely kept under wraps, Polanski is known to be a member and has not faced the same treatment as Weinstein. A member of The Academys public relations branch, Bruce Feldman, told The Hollywood Reporter ahead of the organizations decision to boot out Weinstein: "It's not that I wouldn't like to see Harvey booted out of the Academy. I would. But this raises questions about [Roman] Polanski and [Bill] Cosby and Lord knows who else. Story continues And then there are the legions of big-shot producers and execs who belittle and scream at everyone daily. Is persistent abusiveness okay, but sexual predation isn't? he added. Bill Cosby Matt Rourke/Reuters Feldmans comments also single out Bill Cosby, who was accused of sexual assault and misconduct by at least 60 women; with one case resulting in a criminal trial due to the statute of limitations on the other claims, Rolling Stone reported. The criminal case against Cosby resulted in a mistrial in June, after the jury failed to reach a unanimous decision, CNN reported. However ahead of his trail, and following the string of allegations against him, The Academy did not revoke Cosbys membership. Another Hollywood personality to face sexual assault allegations is director Woody Allen, who was accused by his adoptive daughter Dylan Farrow of sexually assaulting her when she was seven years old, charges that Allen denies. However, following the allegations and subsequent actions taken against Weinstein, calls have once again resurfaced for Allen to be stripped of the Oscar he won in 2014 for Blue Jasmine. Allen has won four Oscar's, and has received 24 nominations throughout his career. Woody Allen Lucas Jackson/Reuters Speaking to the BBC about the allegations against Weinstein, Allen said: No one ever came to me or told me horror stories with any real seriousness. And they wouldnt, because you are not interested in it. You are interested in making your movie. You do hear a million fanciful rumors all the time. And some turn out to be true and somemanyare just stories about this actress, or that actor The whole Harvey Weinstein thing is very sad for everybody involved. Tragic for the poor women that were involved, sad for Harvey that his life is so messed up Theres no winners in that, its just very, very sad and tragic for those poor women that had to go through that, he added. As more people come forward with disturbing stories about working in the film industry, The Academy may be pressured to clarify whether it will take a tough line to tackle the allegations of "endemic" abuse in its ranks and adopt guidelines on dealing with such situations, or simply pick one person to expel. Until then, its promise to bring an end to the era of "shameful complicity in sexually predatory behavior is likely to be seen as just a well-worn script. The Academy did not immediately respond to Newsweek's request for comment. Related Articles Photo credit: Getty From ELLE UK Days after news of Harvey Weinstein's alleged sexual harassment and misconduct came to light in Hollywood, the rumour mill went into overdrive. One of the threads which isn't about sexual harassment, but is still arguably about intimidation, regards Weinstein's wife's fashion brand Marchesa. Last week, the Hollywood Reporter claimed that the 65-year-old producer pressured top actresses - including Sienna Miller and Felicity Huffman - into wearing his wife's designs on the red carpet, or risk their careers. On Thursday night at Eva Longoria Foundation Gala, Huffman reportedly confirmed the claims and told TooFab: 'Yeah, it's true.' Photo credit: Getty The publication reports the actress' comments were in response to rumours that Weinstein threatened to stop financially supporting the promotion of her 2005 Oscar-nominated film Transamerica, if she didn't wear Marchesa at red carpet events. It comes as no surprise then that the star's 2006 Golden Globes dress was a Marchesa original. However, this isn't the first time connections between Chapman's designs and Weinstein's influence in Hollywood have been made. In 2007, a New York Times article commented on how many stylists, designers and influential editors were afraid to speak on record about Chapman's success with the label for 'for fear of offending Mr. Weinstein'. Photo credit: Getty In the article, Chapman commented on the criticism to say: 'There is a backlash. 'But whatever people say about Harvey to me, I want them to look at the dresses.' In response, Weinstein added that anyone who suggests that actresses who choose Marchesa gowns for red carpet events do so to win his favour are 'jealous'. 'It takes away from the talent that Marchesa has exemplified,' he added. Photo credit: Getty However, the producer has previously admitted to using his influence in persuading actress Renee Zellweger to wear one of his wife's designs on the red carpet for the London premiere of Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason in 2004. Story continues 'Maybe I helped, but just very, very little, with Renee Zellweger,' Weinstein told Vogue in 2013. 'Within a year or two, it became actresses calling me on the phone asking if she was available for them,' he continued. Photo credit: Getty 'So the tables completely turned. To the point where I didn't even want to answer the phone if I knew it was an actress.' You Might Also Like New Jersey high school students on Monday decided to walk out in protest after a teacher last week insisted that a student speaking Spanish should instead speak American. Students at Cliffside Park High School in Cliffside Park, New Jersey, recorded a teacher on Thursday insisting that United States soldiers were not fighting for the right to speak a language other than English. Junior Vianery Cabrera, 16, told NBC Latino that she was discussing the New York Yankees in Spanish with a friend when the teacher snapped. Theyre not fighting for your right to speak Spanish, the teacher says in the video. Theyre fighting for your right to speak American. In the video, the teacher kicked the students out and yelled that they were being disrespectful as they grabbed their belongings and left the classroom. After the video spread, more students became angered and about 100 students chose to walk out on Monday in protest. The United States does not have an official language. Vianery moved to the U.S. three years ago from the Dominican Republic and is more comfortable speaking Spanish. The teacher insisted that if Vianery wanted to speak her language, she could do so in Spanish class. So Vianery was kicked out for not speaking American. I laughed, because, first of all, thats not a language, Vianery told NBC Latino. I have the right to speak Spanish. I have the right to speak English. I have the right to speak whatever language I speak, and thats my right. Theres no law that says that I should or I must speak English. A Snapchat video of the incident circulated on Monday, and students took a stand by walking out of school. About 100 students left on their own, and then a fire alarm was pulled forcing the entire school to evacuate, NBC Latino reported. On Monday evening, the Cliffside Park School Districts Board of Education held a special meeting in closed session, NorthJersey.com reported. The schools principal previously threatened any students who chose to walk out with suspension, but Superintendent Michael Romagnino did not confirm whether students would be punished. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Busan (South Korea) (AFP) - A controversial award-winning film that shook up Hong Kong with its bleak visions of the city's future is to be turned into a pan-Asian franchise, with Japanese, Taiwanese and Thai versions in the works. The original "Ten Years" movie was a collection of short films imagining how life might be in Hong Kong in 2025. Seen as a thinly veiled warning about life under Beijing's rule -- including diminished human rights and widespread censorship -- the film was banned on the mainland but was a critical success, with screenings around the world. Speaking at the official launch of the new project, Taiwanese director Rina B. Tsou said the next batch of filmmakers involved were ready to ride out any political storms the spin-offs might stir up. "It will be a challenge for us to put [society's] hidden dangers and hidden fears into film," Tsou, one of five Taiwanese directors attached to that version of the project, told the 22nd Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). The original "Ten Years" (2015) comprised five short films by emerging filmmakers that painted a gloomy view of how life might be in Hong Kong a decade later, 28 years after the former British colony had reverted to Chinese sovereignty. Segments imagined taxi drivers being banned from speaking in their native Cantonese, self-immolation becoming a form of protest against increased Chinese influence and pro-Beijing "youth guards" patrolling the streets. - Pollution, virtual reality and surveillance - In a statement released Monday, the filmmakers explained the Japanese version would explore a country "plagued by pollution and ageing" as well as a "society where morality and personal history are manipulated by technology." The film on Thailand, a country currently ruled by the military, would explore "issues of surveillance and government control" while Taiwan's would paint a picture of an island where "immigrant workers are systematically exploited and the loss of culture and dropping birth rate" have caused its inhabitants to turn to "virtual reality escapes." Story continues The original idea for "Ten Years" was conceived during the pro-democracy Umbrella Movement that brought the central business district of Hong Kong to a standstill for 79 days in 2014. "Ten Years" was named Best Film at the 35th Hong Kong Film Awards in 2016 after a release that was cloaked in controversy, with accusations that theatre owners had been strong-armed into pulling the film from general release due to its strong anti-Chinese sentiments. The fact that it was granted the city's top film award also seemed to divide the domestic industry, with calls to alter the voting methods used to decide that honour as well as arguments over the artistic merits of the film, made on a shoestring budget by inexperienced directors. Regardless, the film sold out whenever and where ever it screened - including showings held in public spaces and against the sides of buildings. Hong Kong-based filmmaker Andrew Choi helped get the original "Ten Years" made and is back as an executive producer for the franchise. He said the plan was to try to take the project to as many Asian markets as possible. "The original Ten Years was created during a time of big changes in Hong Kong," said Choi. "We never imagined it would have such a big impact. With the new project we want to stimulate discussion about the future of each country." - 'I embrace it' - Acclaimed Japanese arthouse filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda - long a favourite at the likes of the prestigious Cannes festival - has come onboard as an executive producer and said at Monday's official project launch that he hoped the film would help younger Japanese filmmakers find their voice. "I hope they can look at the current situation in Japan and how we are accepting the future," said Kore-eda. Japanese director Chie Hayakawa, one of five Japanese directors signed on, said the original production had shown her the "power of film". Meanwhile, Thai director Aditya Assarat said he was aware of the controversy that surrounded the original release in 2015. "But I embrace it," he said. "I look forward to talking about politics which has been difficult to do in Thailand over the past 10 years." BIFF continues until October 21. A Canadian man who was rescued in Pakistan last week after five years in captivity said he initially didnt believe his kidnappers when they told him Donald Trump was president of the United States. It didnt enter my mind that he was being serious, Joshua Boyle said in a recent interview with the Toronto Star. Boyle and his American wife, Caitlan Coleman, were held hostage by a Taliban-linked group for five years with their three young children, who were born in captivity. The couple was abducted in 2012 by the Haqqani network while they were traveling in Afghanistan. Boyle told the Star that he didnt know Justin Trudeau was the Canadian prime minister until he was released either, and he only learned Trump was the U.S. president when he was forced to make a proof-of-life video. For now, Boyle said he and his family are trying to adjust to normal life back in Canada. Obviously it will be of incredible importance to my family that we are able to build a secure sanctuary for our three surviving children to call a home, to focus on edification and to try to regain some portion of the childhood that they have lost, he said in a statement after arriving in Toronto on Friday. Indiegogo, the nine-year-old, crowdfunding site, is changing things up, it announced today. Not only can startups now raise money through the site, but in what seems like a natural evolution, they can now sell what they make once their goods are in production. In what seems a bigger twist, the San Francisco-based company will also now sell other items, too, opening its new platform -- called simply "Indiegogo Marketplace" -- to goods that were successfully crowdfunded elsewhere. Indiegogo will take between 10 percent or 15 percent of the sale price of the product in the process. When the company originally launched, the original goal was just to make it easier for founders, Dave Mandelbrot, the companys CEO, told Recode earlier today. Launching the marketplace is really the last step of that to ensure that once they have a product that is ready for purchase. The idea, the company said in a separate statement, is to "help you get the clever innovations that you just cant find anywhere else." For the most part, anyway. Certainly, we can assume that Indiegogo will mostly attempt to feature goods that consumers won't find on Amazon, which has developed into fierce competition any e-tailer that's selling products that aren't its own branded goods. Still, given Amazon's consumer product focus, it might be difficult to navigate around its ilk completely. Indeed, among the quirky gifts that users can buy right now on Indiegogo Marketplace is the Aumi Smart Nightlight, a light that lies flat on a surface and can be controlled by a smartphone. The product raised money on Kickstarter in 2015 and is also available for sale right now at Target. Two other products available for purchase include a lightweight, fold-up fabric grill called the GoBQ Grill, whose founders raised money on Indiegogo in 2015; and the HiMirror, a smart mirror that aims to tell users about the condition of their skin. The HiMirror is also available to buy -- from HiMirror -- at Amazon. Story continues Interestingly, Indiegogo's move follows Amazon's decision two years ago to create Amazon LaunchPad, a storefront that features freshly baked products that it said at the time were being funneled its way by more than 25 VC firms, accelerators and crowdfunding platforms, including Andreessen Horowitz, Y Combinator, and Indiegogo. There hasn't been much buzz about LaunchPad since, with some potential cons -- as outlined by one strategy firm -- being that payment terms are long, and Amazon can recommend a lower price for an item if it exceeds its expected price. Indiegogo has raised $56 million to date from investors, including Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Khosla Ventures, and Insight Venture Partners. Meanwhile, eight-year-old, Brooklyn-based Kickstarter, whose investors have only confirmed one $10 million round in its history, made clear back in 2012 that Kickstarter is not a store, and it doesn't seem to have veered from that stance. Last year, in fact, it partnered with Amazon, as part of an expansion of Amazon's LaunchPad program, though Amazon had sold Kickstarter items previously, too. Bai Hassan (Iraq) (AFP) - Iraqi forces Wednesday appeared poised to take full control of the oil fields in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk, dashing Kurdish hopes of creating a viable independent state. Kurdish peshmerga forces withdrew without a fight after federal government troops and militia entered the city of Kirkuk and seized the provincial governor's office and key military bases in response to a Kurdish vote for independence last month. The oil fields taken Tuesday accounted for more than 400,000 of the 650,000 barrels per day that the autonomous Kurdish region used to export in defiance of Baghdad. Their loss deals a huge blow to its already dire finances and its dreams of economic self-sufficiency. On Tuesday morning, Iraqi forces took down the Kurdish flags that had flown over the pumping stations of the Bai Hassan and Havana oil fields and raised the national flag, an AFP photographer said. Kurdish technicians had halted production and fled on Monday evening as pro-government forces approached. The last Kirkuk oil field still in Kurdish hands is the smaller Khurmala field, south of Arbil, which produces around 10,000 barrels per day. Oil exports through Turkey -- both from Kirkuk and from within the Kurdish autonomous region -- make up a major portion of the autonomous Kurdish government's revenues. Baghdad views them as a breach of the constitution, under which they are a federal responsibility. - 'End of the dream' - The autonomous Kurdish region is suffering a crushing economic crisis after Baghdad severed its air links with the outside world and neighbouring Iran closed its border to petrochemical exports. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said Tuesday the independence poll was now "a thing of the past". "Central authority must be imposed everywhere in Iraq," he told a press conference. "I want to be fair with all citizens." Iraqi President Fuad Masum blamed the independence poll for triggering Baghdad's operation. Story continues "Holding a referendum on the Kurdistan region's independence from Iraq stirred grave disagreements between the central government and the government of Kurdistan," Masum, himself Kurdish, said in a televised address Tuesday. That "led to federal security forces retaking direct control of Kirkuk," he said. Global crude prices rose further early Wednesday on investor fears of output disruptions. French geographer and Kurdistan specialist Cyril Roussel said the loss of the oil fields had slashed Kurdish finances by half. "It spells the end of Kurdistan's economic self-sufficiency and of the dream of independence," he said. He said that without the revenues from Kirkuk oil, the autonomous region would never have embarked on the September 25 poll in which Kurds overwhelmingly backed independence. "It was only after the annexation of the two Kirkuk fields in July 2014 that Kurdish president Massud Barzani started to talk of independence. Before, he spoke only of autonomy," Roussel said. Kirkuk lies outside the autonomous region but is one of a string of historically Kurdish-majority territories that the Kurds aim to control, against the wishes of Baghdad. Kurdish forces seized many such areas in 2014 when Iraqi army units disintegrated in the face of the jihadists' lightning advance. - Yazidi massacre town falls - But since entering Kirkuk city on Monday, government forces have advanced on those areas one by one. Market trader Hassan Mohammed, from Sulaimaniyah, said he had "never felt so full of despair". "The history of the Kurds in Iraq is full of setbacks, Kirkuk is a new one, a huge one," the 52-year-old said. On Tuesday, troops and militia entered the Yazidi Kurdish town of Sinjar after peshmerga forces withdrew without a fight, the Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force said. Sinjar was the site of one of the Islamic State group's worst atrocities in August 2014, when it killed thousands of Yazidi men and abducted thousands of women and girls as sex slaves, helping trigger the US intervention against the jihadists. Abadi on Tuesday evening said Iraqi troops had retaken control of a major dam north of the second city Mosul, and of the Makhmur area, which the Kurds claim as part of their autonomous region. - 'Betrayal' - Kurdish forces captured Sinjar from IS in 2015 and the town's loss is a symbolic blow for Barzani. Ten peshmerga fighters were killed as they exchanged artillery fire with the army before it entered Kirkuk on Monday, but otherwise the Iraqi advance has been largely bloodless. That was helped by a sharp division within Kurdish ranks over last month's independence poll. Peshmerga forces loyal to the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, historic rival of Barzani's Kurdistan Democratic Party, withdrew under an agreement with Baghdad, officials said. The KDP accused the PUK of "betrayal". But KDP forces also withdrew without a fight, abandoning Sinjar and the two Kirkuk oil fields. On Tuesday, as it became clear that the feared bloodshed was not going to materialise, hundreds of families from among the tens of thousands of Kurdish residents who had fled Kirkuk city began to return to their homes, security sources said. Baghdad (AFP) - Iraqi forces took control of the two largest oil fields in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk on Tuesday dealing a heavy blow to the finances of the autonomous Kurdish government. The Kurds withdrew without a fight after federal government troops and militia seized the provincial governor's office and key military bases and oil fields as tensions boiled over following a Kurdish vote for independence last month. "Federal police units took control of the Bai Hassan and Havana oil fields," north of the city of Kirkuk, a statement said. Kurdish technicians had halted operations at the two fields and left the wells on Monday, an oil ministry official in Baghdad said. The fields accounted for around 250,000 barrels per day of the 650,000 bpd that the autonomous Kurdish region exported under its own auspices, outside the purview of Baghdad, and their loss is a major blow to its revenues. The regional government took over the two fields in 2014 when federal troops withdrew in the face of the jihadists' lightning advance through areas north and west of Baghdad. The autonomous Kurdish region is already going through its worst economic crisis after Baghdad severed its air links to the outside world and neighbouring Iran closed its border to trade in oil products. Kirkuk lies outside the autonomous region but forms part of a swathe of historically Kurdish-majority territory that the Kurds want to incorporate in it against the wishes of Baghdad. The head of the Philippines' armed forces vowed Monday to defeat the remains of the Islamic State militant group (ISIS) in the war-torn city of Marawi after his troops took out two leading members of the jihadi network. Philippine military Chief of Staff General Eduardo Ano said only around 30 militants remained holed up in the city of Marawi, which is located on the southern island group of Mindanao and came under siege by a coalition of pro-ISIS groups in May. The Philippine military has steadily closed in on the jihadis and claimed a major breakthrough Monday, announcing the deaths of ISIS's Southeast Asia ruler, Isnilon Hapilon, who was killed by a sniper, and ISIS-affiliated Maute group co-founder Omarkhayam Maute, who reportedly died of chest wounds sustained in an overnight firefight. Related: Philippines' Duterte promises to kill his own son if drug rumors true "It will be just a matter of days before it will finally be declared that Marawi has been liberated from the clutches of terrorists," Ano told reporters, according to Reuters. "There will be no let up. Its about time to end these terrorists in Mindanao. The resistance, or whats left of it, the terrorists, will crumble. It is a dead end, there is nowhere else to go," he added. GettyImages-861869656 FERDINANDH CABRERA/AFP/Getty Images Ano added that seven other militants had been killed during the operation and that 22 hostages and 39 ISIS family members remained in the formerly ISIS-held city. He said, however, that Hapilon and Maute's deaths eliminated the "center of gravity" for militants not only in Marawi, but elsewhere throughout the country's restive south, according to the Philippine Star. Story continues Hapilon, for whose capture the U.S. offered a $5 million bounty, may now be replaced by an Al-Qaeda-trained Malaysian professor named Mahmud Ahmad as head of ISIS's Southeast Asia operations and the local Aby Sayyaf militant group, intelligence officials were cited by the Philippines' ABS-CBN News as saying Monday. Ahmad is believed to have quietly fled the battle months ago. Maute's brother and fellow Maute Group co-founder, Abdullah Maute, was reportedly killed in Marawi in August, but his body was never recovered. Two other Maute siblings were also recently killed in the five-month battle that was precipitated by the Maute Group's alliance with Hapilon earlier this year, according to Al Jazeera. RTX3HCH5 Philippines Army Recruitment Office/Reuters The ongoing Islamist insurgency in the southern Philippines has been bolstered by ISIS as its fighters lose territory in the Middle East. Last week, a 37-year-old Filipino man arrested in April on suspicion of plotting attacks on civilians in New York City warned Mindanao was "a breeding ground for terrorists" and that more plots against the U.S. would be planned there. The region has also come under the spotlight as the birthplace for Marilou Danley, girlfriend of Stephen Paddock, the 64-year-old man who committed the deadliest mass shooting in recent U.S. history when he killed at least 58 people and injured hundreds more from his hotel room overlooking a country music concert in Las Vegas earlier this month. Paddock wired $100,000 to the Philippines prior to the massacre and ISIS has claimed the attack, but authorities say they have not found any evidence linking Danley or any jihadi group to the killing. Related Articles The Justice Department has sent a federal hate crimes lawyer to Iowa to help prosecute a man charged with killing a transgender teenager last year, an unusual decision by Attorney General Jeff Sessions even as he takes other steps to erode the rights of transgender people broadly. The case involves Jorge Sanders-Galvez, 23, who is charged with killing 16-year-old Kedarie Johnson in Burlington, Iowa, in March 2016. Authorities have not disclosed a motive, but Johnsons relatives say he may have been targeted because he identified as both male and female. The rare decision to involve a federal prosecutor in a local murder case, first reported Sunday by The New York Times, follows pledges by Sessions to aggressively prosecute acts of violence against transgender people. Those pledges have been met with skepticism from LGBT advocates, who point to his actions rolling back legal protections. This month alone, Sessions said the Justice Department no longer considers transgender people shielded from workplace discrimination under federal law, and he issued sweeping guidance on protecting religious freedom that undercuts protections for LGBT people. During his first month in office, he rescinded an Obama administration directive advising schools to let transgender students use the bathroom of their choice. As a Republican senator, Sessions opposed expanding the federal hate crimes statute to protect people based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. But as attorney general, he has promised to uphold that law and has made fighting hate crimes a priority. We are not going to allow persons in this country to be discriminated against or attacked in any way because of their sexual orientation, Sessions said at a speech in June. Reiterating that vow, Sessions said he had directed the Justice Departments civil rights division to review some other cases in which transgender people were killed. Lawmakers in March urged him to give seven murders a closer look. Story continues Johnson, a high school junior who was found fatally shot in an ally, was not among those cases. Recently filed court documents show Christopher Perras of the Justice Departments civil rights division will serve as a county prosecutor in the case. He has been involved in other hate crimes prosecutions, including that of an Iowa man convicted of stomping and kicking an African-American man in a racially targeted attack. He has also prosecuted several cases against law enforcement officers accused of civil rights violations. LGBT advocates said it was right to involve a federal prosecutor in the case, but it shouldnt be a publicity stunt. For Sessions now to seek credit for helping prosecute hate crimes against transgender people is akin to him handing out gasoline and matches and then looking for a pat on the back when he prosecutes someone for committing arson, said Sharon McGowan, a former Justice Department official and strategy director for the LGBT-rights group Lambda Legal. Jessica Chastain speaks at the Elle Women in Hollywood Awards in L.A. on Oct. 16, 2017. (Photo: Getty Images) Jessica Chastain has said she was warned from the beginning about Harvey Weinsteins reputation, so she was able to avoid that type of interaction with him. She wasnt so lucky with another producer in the biz. An honoree at the Elle Women in Hollywood Awards, the Zero Dark Thirty and The Help actress used her time at the podium to speak out about sexual misconduct she has endured during her career, similar to the way her colleagues Jennifer Lawrence and Reese Witherspoon did last night. In addition to dealing with a lot of nonsense among some of her male co-stars, the two-time Oscar nominee said she was sexually harassed by a producer. I didnt want to say something that could be taken the wrong way or offend some person, so for too long, didnt say anything, Chastain began. I was on set with actors who showed up to work intoxicated and I quietly worked alongside them. I had a second AD [assistant director] beg me for help coaxing an actor into putting his video games down so we could shoot. The most brow-raising confession was the one she saved for last. She told the crowd, I had a producer spank me as I walked past him in the hallway. And she said she was scared to speak up about these things because I was worried that I might be made unhirable. Jessica Chastain attends the Elle Women in Hollywood Awards in L.A. on Oct. 16, 2017. (Photo: Getty Images) Chastain said that the turning point for her both personally and professionally was when she started to take a stand. She saw her fears subside and her career continue to grow. I stopped making myself invisible or small, and to my shock and my happiness, my career has not stalled, she said to the applause of the room. She ended by calling the sexual abuse inexcusable and proclaimed that it needs to stop now. Chastain spoke out early following the first wave of accusations against Weinstein by the New York Times on Oct. 5. On Twitter, she wrote that she had been warned from the beginning about the Weinstein Company honcho. The stories were everywhere. I was warned from the beginning. The stories were everywhere. To deny that is to create an enviornment for it to happen again. Jessica Chastain (@jes_chastain) October 9, 2017 When one follower noted that she appeared in a Weinstein Company-distributed film, The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby, she replied that was only because the director, Ned Benson, wanted him to do it and she noted that she spoke against it. Story continues Because the director wanted him, even after I spoke against it. Jessica Chastain (@jes_chastain) October 9, 2017 In recent days, Chastain showed her support for her Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby co-star (and bff) Jess Weixler, who went public on Instagram to say that she endured several years of Harvey propositioning me. Weixler says she was very grateful I was warned and noted that she had multiple women protecting me with stories. Jessica Chastain and Jess Weixler with Harvey Weinstein at a Cannes Film Festival in 2014. (Photo: Getty images) Chastain regrammed Weixlers post, writing, Much love to you sister. Thank you for sharing your story with the world. She ended by calling her friend a warrior. Takes one to know one. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. April showers bring royal babies! According to a Kensington Palace spokesperson, the Royal Highnesses are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April. There was speculation that Prince William had given away Kate Middetons due date in early September when he told members of the public we just need Catherine to get over this first bit, then we can start celebrating next week. The third royal baby could be born close to the couples wedding anniversary or to the birthday of Princess Charlotte. (Photo: PA This led many to believe that the duchess was around 11 weeks pregnant at the time and would hit the 12 week point, marking the second trimester, a few days later. The date could be close to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges wedding anniversary, which is April 29, or Princess Charlottes birthday, May 2. William and Kates youngest child, Princess Charlotte, was born in 2015. (Photo: PA) Middleton has been suffering from extreme morning sickness since the start of her pregnancy, forcing Kensington Palace to announce the royals pregnancy early. She made her first appearance in six weeks last Tuesday to celebrate World Mental Health Day with another surprise visit on Monday to Paddington station. It was also announced today that the Duke and Duchess will be making a trip to Norway and Sweden in early 2018 for yet another royal tour. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Nairobi (AFP) - Opposition leader Raila Odinga said Tuesday he was suspending a protest campaign after three people were shot dead in demonstrations against Kenya's election body. The National Super Alliance (NASA) coalition had earlier said the protests would resume on Wednesday after pausing for a day in a tribute to the victims. "In honour of the innocent victims of the state, our protests will stay suspended. On Friday, we will mark the memory of these victims as heroes of the struggle for electoral justice," Odinga said in a statement. Odinga said the party would communicate "our next course of action" on Friday. The announcement marks the latest twist in a drama that has plunged the east African nation into its biggest political crisis in a decade. In 2007, a disputed election led to politically-motivated ethnic violence that left more than 1,100 dead. Odinga launched a protest campaign three weeks ago against the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). He said the panel had failed to properly reform since the Supreme Court annulled an August 8 presidential election over irregularities in the counting process and mismanagement by the IEBC. On Friday last week two protesters were shot dead by police in Odinga's rural home of Bondo, in the west of the country. On Monday an 18-year-old man was shot dead during a protest in Kisumu. His mother insisted he was not taking part and had merely gone to buy ice cream. The protests, concentrated in Kisumu but with smaller crowds seen in Nairobi and coastal Mombasa, have seen opposition supporters setting tyres alight, lobbing stones at police and in some cases looting stores and destroying property. Security Minister Fred Matiangi banned protests in main cities last Thursday, citing lawlessness from opposition supporters. However, the country's high court temporarily suspended this ban on Tuesday, until it could fully hear a complaint from the opposition. Story continues Odinga last week announced he was withdrawing from the race, arguing the move would legally force the IEBC to begin the whole process from scratch, which would allow more time for deep reforms. Despite the confusion over what Odinga's withdrawal means, election officials appear to be pushing forward with plans to hold the vote as scheduled on October 26. President Uhuru Kenyatta has yet to sign into law new election legislation that has been in front of him for five days -- despite declaring he would do so without hesitation. Odinga had said the amendments would merely make legal the "irregularities" cited by the Supreme Court. The laws would allow manual vote counting to supersede electronically transmitted results and making tally forms count even if there is "a deviation from the requirements of the form". - IEBC can't 'correct' results - Also on Tuesday, Kenya's Supreme Court issued a ruling to clarify the role of the IEBC in the verification and announcement of election results -- after the commission was lambasted for announcing an outcome that could not be properly verified. In Kenya, results from polling stations, compiled in a form 34A, are sent to 290 constituencies, where those results are then entered into a form 34B and tallied to determine the victor. The court had berated the IEBC for declaring Kenyatta the winner on August 11 while all forms had not been provided, or were unsigned, lacked the requisite security features or contained irregularities. The IEBC had asked the court what it should do if the constituency results did not match the results from the forms 34A. Supreme Court deputy chief justice Philomena Mwilu said that in such a case IEBC chief Wafula Chebukati "cannot correct errors" spotted on form 34Bs. Instead he must report inconsistencies to observers and election candidates, and allow the Supreme Court to resolve them if necessary. The decision is important because it limits the potential for the falsification of results by IEBC officials. By Maggie Fick NAIROBI (Reuters) - At least 33 people died in the Kenyan capital Nairobi during a police crackdown on opposition supporters after elections in August, including a child and a pregnant woman, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch said on Monday. Protests erupted after President Uhuru Kenyatta was declared winner over opposition leader Raila Odinga in the vote. The Supreme Court later voided the result. Odinga has withdrawn from a re-run on Oct. 26, leaving Kenyatta as the only candidate, prompting further protests. Kenyan police disputed the rights groups' report, which brings the nationwide death toll in the crackdown to at least 45. Human Rights Watch had earlier documented 12 killings after the vote by police in western Kenya, the main opposition stronghold. HRW and Amnesty said police in Nairobi had used "excessive force" and that "most of (the 33 who died) were killed as a result of action by the police." Among them was a nine-year-old child shot dead while standing on a balcony and a woman who was eight months pregnant and was trampled to death after fainting from inhaling tear gas, the rights groups said in the report. Kenya's National Police Service said in a statement the report was "totally misleading and based on falsehoods." Immediately after the violence in August, police said only "criminals" and "thugs" had been killed or injured. The report is likely to bolster the case of Kenyan activists and rights groups who accuse police of brutality and extrajudicial killings but say few officers are charged and convictions are extremely rare. "Researchers found that although police behaved appropriately in some instances, in many others they shot or beat protesters to death," the groups said in the report. On Thursday the government banned demonstrations in the central business district of Nairobi, the coastal city of Mombasa and the western city of Kisumu, where protesters had been gathering twice a week, calling on the election board to make reforms to ensure a fair poll. Police had used tear gas to disperse them.[L8N1MO1O3] A group of U.N. human rights experts called for the governments ban on protests to be listed and denounced a pattern of police brutality in response to recent demonstrations. During the violence the parents of a six-month-old baby in western Kenya told Reuters their child was clubbed by police in her home and died later in hospital from brain trauma. Kenya receives financial support for security from the United States, Britain and other international donors. (Editing by Raissa Kasolowsky) Khizr and Ghazala Khan, the parents of a Muslim service member killed in Iraq, denounced President Donald Trumps selfish and divisive actions related to this weeks controversy of Trumps comments on consoling the families of fallen troops. It took Trump 12 days to publicly address the deaths of four Green Berets during an Oct. 4 ambush. When he finally spoke about the matter on Monday, he slammed his predecessors, including former President Barack Obama, for failing to call the forgotten families of fallen service members. The Khans blasted Trump on Tuesday in a statement to ABC News, declaring that they stand with the families in their moment of grief. NEW: Khizr and Ghazala Khan mourn deaths of US solders in Niger in statement to @ABC: "We stand with the families in this moment of grief." ABC News (@ABC) October 17, 2017 MORE: Khan family says Pres. Trump's "selfish and divisive actions have undermined the dignity of the high office of the presidency." ABC News (@ABC) October 17, 2017 Khizr and Ghazala Khan became household names in July 2016 after Khizr Khan delivered a stinging rebuke to then-presidential candidate Trump at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. Let me ask you, have you even read the U.S. Constitution? I will gladly lend you my copy, Khan addressed Trump, before pulling a copy of the document from his pocket. Trump subsequently attacked the Khans, implying that Ghazala Khan had not spoken at the convention due to the couples Islamic faith. Khizr Khan, right, and Ghazala Khan appear at the Democratic National Convention in July 2016. Khizr Khan's speech sparked vociferous attacks from Donald Trump. (Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images) The comments sparked widespread denunciations of Trump for attacking Gold Star parents a term referring to the parents of fallen service members, which Trump was reportedly unfamiliar with beforehand. The Khans son Capt. Humayun S.M. Khan died serving in Iraq in 2004 while stopping a suicide bomber from entering a military base. Story continues Khizr Khan went on to appear in a video advertisement for Hillary Clintons presidential campaign. He is now helping raise money for Democratic candidates in Virginia, where he lives. Also on HuffPost Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. A man holds up a sign during a protest against racism gathered in front of the White House, on August 14, 2017 in Washington, DC. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue near Trump Tower. Hundreds of protesters gather outside of Trump Tower. A woman raises her fist at the front of a march down Washington Avenue to protest racism and the violence over the weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue near Trump Tower ahead of President Donald Trump's arrival, August 14, 2017 in New York City. Supporters of anti-Trump protestors hold up signs inside Trump Tower ahead of President Donald Trump's arrival, August 14, 2017 in New York City. Pedestrians walk past a 15-foot tall inflatable rat in the likeness of U.S. President Donald Trump at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 59th Street up the road from Trump Tower, August 14, 2017 in New York City. A President Donald Trump supporter (left) argues with anti-Trump protesters as they gather outside of Trump Tower. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue near Trump Tower. Hundreds of protesters gather outside of Trump Tower. Protestors rally on Fifth Avenue. A man holds up a sign during a protest against racism in front of the White House. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Armed Kurdish civilians set-up checkpoints in Kirkuk Monday morning as they tried to prevent Kurdish peshmerga fighters from evacuating the city as Iraqi government forces advanced. The peshmerga left along with tens of thousands of fleeing civilians that jammed the road from Kirkuk to Erbil. Resident burnt tires and shouted shame on you, while some civilians pointed guns as the peshmerga departed. By mid-afternoon, the Kurds had lost control of Kirkuk, Iraqs most contested city. Young Arab men hung an Iraqi flag from a bridge as American-made Humvees rolled through the streets, closely followed by pick-up trucks filled with fighters from the mostly-Shia Popular Mobilization Forces. Now all Kirkuk can see this flag, said Abdullah Gubal as he hung it over a billboard for the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), the leading Kurdish political party in Kirkuk. Claimed by both the Iraqi government in Baghdad and the Kurdish regional authority in Erbil, the fate of Kirkuk should have been decided by referendum a decade ago. Kurds took control of Kirkuk when Iraqi forces fled ISISs advance in June of 2014. The Kurdish leadership vowed they wouldnt hand the city back. But Kirkuks government buildings and Kurdish party headquarters were virtual empty Monday and residents said they saw Kurdish officials and forces leave before the Iraqi forces advanced. They sold Kirkuk, said Ahmad Mohamed holding his Kalashnikov at the edge of the city with a group of angry Kurdish volunteer fighters pledging to go back and push the Iraqi forces out. This is shame on the Kurdish leaders and most of the Kurdish commanders in Kirkuk, said Wyra Ali. They didnt fire one bullet from their weapons. They should defended Kirkuk, but they didnt. Hiwa Osman, a Kurdish analyst, says the peshmerga retreat may have been the result of both confusion and internal division. Since the Kurds controversial referendum on sovereignty last month, the division between the Kurdistan Democratic Party, the party of Kurdish President Masoud Barzani, and the PUK has been growing and many here believe the PUK struck a deal to hand over Kirkuk to Baghdad. Story continues One camp said stay at home, says Osman. The other camp said take your weapons and go in to the street. In the end, Iraqi forces and allied militias met little resistance in the urban center after clashes with forces outside the city. Overnight Iraqi forces took control of the areas outside the city and by afternoon American-trained elite forces had taken the Kurdish flag off the governors office and raised the Iraqi one instead. Mondays Iraqi advance on Kirkuk was spurred by the controversial Kurdish referendum on September 25. Washington and Baghdad both urged the Kurdish leadership to postpone the vote, but they went ahead. Since then, Baghdad has been increasing pressure on the Kurds semi-autonomous region halting international flights out of the Kurds two international airports and threatening to take control of the borders. Kurds were outnumbered, out-armed and also unsupported by the ally they share with Baghdad. Both the Iraqi forces entering the city today and the Kurdish forces that left, are funded, trained and equipped by the U.S. and allies in the fight against ISIS, putting Washington in difficult position. Where are the American planes? asked another man. The pop of gunfire could be heard in the distance as the volunteer Kurdish fighters talked about heading in to Kirkuk. President Donald Trump said Monday that the U.S. would not take sides in the Kurdish-Iraqi dispute. But Jennifer Cafarella, senior analyst at the Institute for the Study of War, says its this position and American tunnel vision on the fight against ISIS that allowed this situation to escalate. The U.S. is in a terrible position because we remained focused on the very narrow anti-ISIS mission, says Cafarella, explaining the U.S. needed to be more engaged before these tensions between the Iraqis and the Kurds spiraled. She also cautions that while U.S. has not been involved, the Iranians have. Now the U.S. is sitting on the sidelines asking for everyone to deescalate. Located in Provo, Utah, a community where about 90 percent of its residents affiliate with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), Encircle: LGBTQ Family and Youth Resource Center opened its doors to the public earlier this year. Motivated by the high youth suicide rate in Utah (one of the highest in the nation) and coupled with the alienation from family or faith communities that too many LGBTQ youth and adults experience, the nonprofit organizations founder, Stephenie Larsen, decided to build the resource center to save lives and to create community. The organizations mission is to bring together the family and community to help LGBTQ youth thrive. In such a highly religious community, this includes respecting the self-determination of those in the process of reconciling religious faith and sexual orientation or gender identity. One of the youth that frequents Encircle is Miles, age 16. He is the youngest in his family, and he loves horseback riding, modern dance, writing poetry and stories, reading, acting and being out in nature. And Miles identifies as a transgender male. In talking about his journey to self-acceptance, Miles shared that feeling self-conscious about his body started in third grade. I hated wearing swimming suits. I hated just about everything about my body. When I was 14, I started getting really depressed and anxious all the time. Then I started cutting myself and hurting myself as a way to cope, and because I thought I deserved to be punished. Then I started binging and purging because I hated my body. At this time, I started to have stronger questions about my gender. I also started to become suicidal. I went to an eating disorder facility for a while, and I was hospitalized four times for suicidal attempts and ideation. I went to another residential treatment facility, and finally things started to get better. I was on my way to recovery. During this difficult period in their life, one of the resources that Miles and his mother Wendy Gourley took advantage of was Encircle. Wendy described the experience as follows: Story continues We came to Encircle somewhat broken and scarred, but when we walked in the doors, we felt like we were coming home. The love that exists in that place is tangible. Both Miles and I have received information, counseling, friendship and encouragement, but most powerful of all is the opportunity Miles has to hang out with other incredible kids on the LGBTQIA spectrum. It changes your world to know youre not the only one. As Miles began the process of coming out, he explained that he first came to accept his identity himself and then began to share it with others. As soon as I tried being a boy on for size, it felt perfect, and I began to transition. It was super hard to come out to my parents, but I felt like it was a huge turning point in my life. I had to tell myself literally hundreds of times a day that I am worth it. I am enough. I am loved. And I am unique. Plus more. Of course I still struggle today with self-esteem. But I am SO much happier today. Wendy described their family as a very typical LDS or Mormon family, I was a stay-at-home mom to four children. My husband supported us as a corporate tax director. We were all active in the church, and the children did well in school and were involved in extracurricular activities. Through all the transitions and challenges they have experienced through the years she and her husband are divorcing, two children are now married and have added grandchildren to the family, some children have struggled with depression and anxiety and are not sure of their religious or spiritual place, and they have gone from having three girls and one boy to having two girls and two boys she liked to think their family was still typical of an LDS family. I dont know of any family that doesnt deal with serious issues of one kind or another. We still love being together as a family and are unified in supporting each of us no matter what shape our family is or where we are in life. Miles has experienced both support and rejection from his religious community, with some of his church leaders coming to visit him in the hospital. In response to those who are not supportive, he stated, I will love them, and hopefully, they will love me. The LGBTQIA community and the religious community can get along. It is possible. Lets just all love each other and be friends! In talking about the challenge of reconciling her religious beliefs with her family dynamics, Wendy expressed that on a personal level, as she embraces the first principle of their religion faith she is comfortable with not having all the answers. However, when considering whether attending church is right for Miles, she honors and supports Miles decision whatever it might be as he makes life-affirming choices. Their congregation has been overwhelmingly supportive of them, but she acknowledged that not every person in their circumstance is as fortunate. She also recognized that there are still gendered things that exclude Miles, and some of the statements and policies the world-wide church leaders have made have been devastating to us and to the LGBT community. And while they also send supportive statements that encourage love and acceptance, at best, the message has been mixed. One of the ways that Miles suggested Utah could better support him and its transgender population is to provide gender-neutral bathrooms, especially in schools. He emphasized that being transgender is not a trend and that self-acceptance is possible, which fosters greater acceptance towards others. Wendy urged other parents of LGBTQ youth to tell their story without shame, whatever path they may choose, emphasizing that it will be one of the most powerful ways to help their children and send them the message that their family will support and advocate for them. She also invited others to not make assumptions about trans kids, but instead, to get to know one asserting that whomever did would be amazed. With the love of a mother, Wendy expressed, Every day, Im rejoicing that my child is alive and progressively growing more healthy. Ron Livingston in Loudermilk. (Photo: Audience Network) Ill-tempered and perennially cranky, Sam Loudermilk is four years sober and an addiction counselor in Seattle. If youre still with me, you might be intrigued by Loudermilk, a nicely sour comedy premiering on the AT&T Audience network. Ron Livingston (Office Space) stars as Loudermilk; he maintains a skeptical deadpan and gives the world around him a dour glare. The very opposite of a feel-good addiction therapist, Loudermilk is all too willing to explore negative vibes in the 12-step meetings he presides over. In this, he seems a bit more realistic than your usual TV depiction of sunny sobriety. The show is co-created by Bobby Mort (The Colbert Report) and Peter Farrelly (Theres Something About Mary), and Livingston is surrounded by funny co-stars including the comedians Will Sasso (as Loudermilks AA sponsor) and Brian Regan (as a frowny recovering alcoholic). To be sure, there are certain sitcom standbys in the shows setup, such as an attractive woman whos just moved in next door, primarily for Loudermilk to flirt with. (Shes played by Laura Mennell.) Sometimes the writing is very funny, as when Loudermilk insults, at length, a couple of bearded, red-plaid flannel-shirt wearing hipsters about their fashion choices. But sometimes the writing is a bit too obvious, as when roommate Ben tells Loudermilk, You make it really hard for people to like you. Loudermilks throwaway joke in the premiere about Saul Zaentz would be funnier if the show didnt feel the need to have Loudermilk stop to explain who Zaentz is. Loudermilks backstory is that, in the 1990s, he was a pretty prominent rock-music critic, a profession thats been neglected in TV and movies since Jeff Goldblums morose Boston Phoenix rock-crit in Between the Lines in 1977. In Loudermilks case, it helps explain both his living in former grunge mecca Seattle and his grumpy attitude. (Loudermilk disdains using the internet because it killed the music industry.) As the series progresses, Loudermilks sobriety and his pessimistic attitude toward life are tested, making the character more three-dimensional. He and the show named after him start off interesting and get better as they proceed. Loudermilk airs Tuesdays at 10:30 p.m. on AT&Ts Audience network. Read More From Yahoo Entertainment: The Walking Dead: 10 Easter eggs you may have missed I Know What You Did Last Summer turns 20: Ryan Phillippe looks back The latest on the Harvey Weinstein sexual misconduct scandal TWIN FALLS The Blue Lakes Inn has closed for the fall and winter, and thanks its team members for their years of service. The hotel announced that several of its employees had already accepted or were looking to accept opportunities elsewhere: TWIN FALLS Trans IV Buses is facing a $13,000 loss this year, even if it receives grant money from the city. The public transportation service estimates that with funding cuts and increased costs, that loss could reach $25,000 or more in each of the coming 2019 and 2020 grant years. So far weve been able to pull it out of reserves but thats a short-term thing rather than a long-term deal, Director Lynn Baird told the City Council on Monday. The Council voted unanimously to enter a joint agreement and fund Trans IV Buses $45,000 for that two-year period. In past years, the Council has awarded Trans IV Buses a Municipal Powers Outsource Grant to help it receive the matching funds it needs. These funds are required for Trans IV to receive federal funding through Idaho Transportation Department. But the funding decreased in recent years as more emphasis was placed on fixed routes, city grant writer Mandi Thompson said. Meanwhile, other sources of matching funds have dried up. Theyre no longer able to break even, she said. Trans IV provides public transportation for anyone in the city, though Thompson said they target those who cannot provide their own transportation. The cost to the general public is $5 for a round-trip ride, and all trips are scheduled in advance. The service has 13 buses and runs about 10 of them each day, serving about 100 people, Baird said. One community member said she thought it was a convenient service, but it wasnt economical when she found she was consistently the only one taking the bus twice weekly from the College of Southern Idaho. However, the city projects it will be required to provide public transportation following the 2020 Census, and said the demand-response service is preferred to a fixed-route system. Also at the meeting, the Council: Heard Councilwoman Ruth Pierce, a breast cancer survivor, read a proclamation declaring Oct. 20 as Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Twin Falls. Pierce was also given a pink fire department T-shirt and a framed picture taken earlier that day of her with the fire department. Awarded a bid for a new airport fire truck to Rosenbauer for $640,172.16. The truck will be paid for through an Federal Aviation Administration grant, with a 6.25 percent local match. The old truck will be kept on reserve to be used as needed. Adopted an ordinance annexing 491 Canyon Rim Road with a zoning designation of R-2. Adopted an ordinance vacating the Garnand Subdivision Conveyance Plat, excluding dedicated easements and right-of-way, at 129 Eastland Drive. Approved a zoning change and zoning map amendment at 2016 Addison Ave. E., rezoning the property to residential with a professional overlay. This will allow the Janice Seagraves Family Foundation to operate at the residence. Catalan President Carles Puigdemont responded ambiguously to a central government ultimatum - REUTERS The Spanish government has warned Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont he faces his final chance to relinquish independence within three days or it would trigger Article 155, the so-called 'nuclear option' which would override Catalonia's autonomy. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy had set a deadline of 10am local time yesterday for Mr Puigdemont to clarify whether or not the autonomous region had made a unilateral declaration of independence last week. The Catalan president responded with a four-page letter that did not directly answer the question but instead stressed a mandate for independence and called for urgent dialogue. The Spanish government had made clear that anything less than a No would set in motion Article 155, a never-used constitutional tool allowing it to effectively suspend autonomous powers and rule directly from Madrid. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has a set a deadline for overriding Catalonia's autonomy. Credit: Lavandeira jr/EFE That is now set to be applied on Friday, if Mr Puigdemont does not reverse his position during a further three-day grace period. The Spanish deputy prime minister, Maria Soraya Saenz de Santamaria, said the government interpreted his response as a confirmation that declaration had indeed been declared. Demanding Mr Puigdemont retract this by Thursday at 10am, she insisted it was "in his hands to avoid the next steps". Mr Puigdemont, who had been under heavy pressure from independence hardliners to confirm an abrupt split from Spain, had called for an urgent meeting with Mr Rajoy in his letter. He said the banned independence referendum had returned a mandate for an independent state but insisted the regional governments priority was a negotiated solution, eyeing a two-month period for dialogue. Carles Puidgemont delivering a speech at the Fossar de la Pederera Credit: Ivan Alvarado/Reuters Mr Rajoy responded with a letter of his own, in which he told Mr Puigdemont he still had a chance to respond in a "clear and simple way to Madrids request. If he did not do so, he will be the only one responsible for the application of the constitution, he said. Story continues Alfonso Dastis, the Spanish foreign minister, said the most radical influences had prevailed in Mr Puigdemonts decision. But the Catalan presidents letter did not go far enough to satisfy the CUP, the hard Left partner that is crucial to the Catalan governments parliamentary majority, which is now pushing for a clear affirmation of independence on Thursday. The CUP would have sent a very different letter, said parliamentarian Mireia Boya. Further adding to tensions yesterday, the Catalan police chief and the leaders of two major pro-independence groups appeared in court in Madrid to face allegations of sedition. The Spanish attorney general asked the judge to remand Major Josep Lluis Trapero in custody, with judicial sources quoted by La Vanguardia citing fears he could continue to give orders to the Catalan force to subvert Madrid's clampdown. Major Josep Lluis Trapero leaves Audiencia Nacional Court in Madrid Credit: Kiko Huesca/EFE The judge did not agree to the attorney-general's request to take Major Josep Lluis Trapero into custody, but imposed the conditions he surrender his passport and report to a court every 15 days. The same conditions were imposed on another Catalan police official. An Oregon man has returned to the remote trail where his girlfriend plunged to her death nearly a decade ago. Read: Woman Dies in Husband's Arms While Taking Shelter in Swimming Pool to Escape California Wildfire Stephen Nichols took Inside Edition back to the spot where his aspiring model girlfriend, Rhonda Casto, fell off the 100-foot cliff along the Eagle Creek trail at Oregon's Columbia Gorge in 2009. Her death was believed to be a tragic accident due to a rainstorm that made the trail dangerously slippery. I honestly never wanted to come back here so this is extremely painful, he told Inside Edition. I have really done everything in my power to forget about this place. Its a chapter in my life that I wished never had happened. I really have tried to forget about it. The day started out sunny but quickly turned bad and a storm came through that left the trail so slick that even the most experienced hikers would have considered it hazardous, according to Nichols. Julia Simmons, Rhonda's mother, says her daughters death was no accident, and blames Nichols. She claims Nichols pushed her daughter off the cliff because she was going to leave him and take their baby daughter with her. He totally got away with murder, Simmons said emphatically. "He has this sickening laugh and this little smirk about him. He doesnt care one iota about what happened up there. I know that he remembers everything about it. Prosecutors alleged he pushed Simmons off the cliff to collect on a $1 million life insurance policy. It was [Rhonda's] idea to get the life insurance," he claimed. "In fact she had asked me three times." Read: Hear the Mysterious 'Sonic Attack' That Left 20 Americans Hurt in Cuba Nichols added that he is surprised about the contention by Simmons' mother that he played a role in her daughter's death. Story continues She told me that she knew it was an accident," he said. "She told me she was angry that she lost her daughter." Nichols was charged with Rhondas murder and pleaded guilty to lesser charges of criminally negligent homicide and coercion. He was released after serving only 19 months in jail. Did I force her to go hiking that day? ... I didnt," he said. "Did I force her to jump off the trail? ... I did not." He says he does not hold himself responsible for her death, despite pleading guilty. The victims mother had a chilling message for Nichols. Steve, you know you did it," she said. "You are a liar, a murderer and you are going to rot in hell for it." The victims 8-year-old daughter is in the care of the state. Watch: Cliff Jumper Takes Horrific Belly Flop Off 83-Foot Cliff: 'It Sounded Like a Big Splat on the Water' Related Articles: Where is Jesus Campos, the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino security guard shot earlier this month during a confrontation with the Las Vegas gunman? Nobody seems to know or if they do, they arent saying. In the aftermath of the Oct. 1 shooting, President Donald Trump and Las Vegas police praised Campos for his actions, as he initially was reported to have taken a bullet to the leg before helping authorities locate the shooter, Stephen Paddock. But the story got murkier last week, when law enforcement adjusted the timeline of events. They first suggested Campos had actually been shot outside Paddocks hotel suite minutes before Paddock began his attack on the thousands of concertgoers gathered 32 stories below. Then, police revised the sequence of events again, saying Paddock was shooting at the same time, or within 40 seconds after Campos had reported being shot. Questions of Campos whereabouts first began to swirl last Thursday, when he abruptly canceled on a slate of interviews with major news networks in which he had been scheduled to publicly give his account of the nights events for the first time. The next day, Campos union representative, David Hickey of the Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America, told reporters hed learned that Campos had been taken to a local clinic. We had a meeting with MGM officials, and after that meeting was over, we talked about the interviews, we went to a private area, and when we came out, Mr. Campos was gone, Hickey said, according to Fox 5 Las Vegas. Right now Im just concerned where my member is, and what his condition is. Its highly unusual. Im hoping everything is OK with him and Im sure MGM or the union will let (media) know when we hear something. Hickey has had no contact with Campos since, he told the Los Angeles Times on Monday. He maintained that somebody knows where he is. MGM Resorts, the parent company of Mandalay Bay, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal on Tuesday that there was nothing unusual about Campos disappearance. Story continues Jesus Campos wants to tell his story at a time and place of his choosing, they wrote. Hes asked that everyone respect his request for privacy. We could not be more proud of Jesus. Hickey did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment. With 58 killed and hundreds more injured, the Las Vegas mass shooting is the deadliest in modern U.S. history. It has sparked a storm of media coverage, and Hickey had been in Las Vegas helping Campos manage the spotlight. The two men were photographed together last week, as Campos received an SPFPA Hero Award. But it seems unlikely that all of the attention directed at Campos is welcome. The massacre has also set off a wave of conspiracy theories, and in the rush to turn up evidence of a supposed false flag operation, some people online have begun turning their sights on Campos, Snopes reports. Last week, an armed security contractor was seen parked outside Campos Las Vegas home. This story has been updated to include comment from MGM Resorts. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Actress Alyssa Milano attends a protest in Times Square, New York City, New York, U.S., July 26, 2017 - REUTERS Thousands of women are identifying themselves as victims of sexual harassment or assault following a call to action propelled by actress Alyssa Milano in the wake of Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein's downfall over of allegations of sexual misconduct spanning decades. Milano passed along a suggestion from a friend on Sunday that women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted post "me too" to "give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem." The campaign quickly trended on Twitter and Facebook, with notable names like Lady Gaga, Monica Lewinsky and Rosario Dawson identifying themselves as victims. Others shared personal stories. "Being raped once made it easier to be raped again. I instinctually shut down. My body remembered, so it protected me. I disappeared. #metoo," actress Evan Rachel Wood wrote as part of a series of tweets on her experience. "Sharing my stories and feeling less alone really helps. So thank you for listening." If youve been sexually harassed or assaulted write me too as a reply to this tweet. pic.twitter.com/k2oeCiUf9n Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) October 15, 2017 Some women weighed in with stories of assaults while in the military, gang rapes and catcalls. Milano's former co-star on TV's "Charmed," Rose McGowan, tweeted in support of the campaign. McGowan has accused Weinstein of raping her. Milano called the Weinstein allegations "disturbing" in an essay last week, but added that she had been reluctant to comment publicly because of her friendship with Weinstein's wife, Georgina Chapman. Being raped once made it easier to be raped again. I instinctually shut down. My body remembered, so it protected me. I disappeared. #metoo #EvanRachelWould (@evanrachelwood) October 16, 2017 Goodnight everyone and oh yeah, #MeToo Katie Couric (@katiecouric) October 17, 2017 "I am constantly part of this conversation even if I don't publicly comment on specific scandals," she wrote. "Sexual harassment and assault in the workplace are not just about Harvey Weinstein. We must change things in general. We must do better for women everywhere." Story continues A similar social media campaign is playing out on Instagram among models who are sharing stories of abuse and harassment in the fashion industry. Model Cameron Russell put out a post four days ago offering help to models and has been deluged with responses. She has shared many on her Instagram feed, blacking out identifying factors but leaving the stories otherwise alone. Some women who reported unwanted touching and worse said hearing from their sister models has brought long-buried recollections to mind. The effort has launched the hashtag "MyJobShouldNotInclude Abuse." Prague (AFP) - Migrants wearing burkas and hijabs attack a Czech pensioner, kick over her walker and dash into a building with a sign saying 'welfare benefits', leaving her lying helpless on the pavement. The staged election clip then tells Czech voters "you can choose whether to give money to our children and seniors or to Muslims and Africans". The far-right Bloc Against Islamisation, which produced the clip, is one of 31 parties running in the Czech Republic's October 20-21 general election. Like the far-right National Front in France, Geert Wilders in the Netherlands, Germany's hard-right AfD and Austria's resurgent populist Freedom Party, Czech election contenders of various political stripes have stoked concerns about a record influx of migrants into Europe. But unlike elsewhere in the EU, migration has become a key campaign issue in the Czech Republic despite the marked absence of migrants and refugees. The EU country of 10.6 million people, whose president is openly anti-Muslim, has accepted just 12 of the 1,600 refugees it was asked to take in over the last two years under the bloc's quota scheme. While most refugees from the Middle East opted to head for wealthier western European countries like Germany or Sweden, Czech parties have still seized on the political capital to be gained from playing on fears over terrorism and economic welfare to campaign on an anti-Muslim and anti-migrant platform. "This has little to do with a real problem, because there is really no migration here," Jiri Pehe, an independent political analyst, told AFP. "Parties have merely found out that the migration, terrorism, Islam threats work so they are using them," he said. In an April poll by the CVVM institute, a part of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 60 percent of Czechs said their country should not accept migrants at all, while only three percent would let them stay for good. Prague has protested strongly against the EU-wide refugee quota scheme, alongside ex-Communist peers Hungary, Poland and Slovakia. Story continues - 'Single-issue parties' - "We need a dam against the hateful Islamist ideology," says Tomas Erlich, a Prague resident who says he will vote for Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD), an openly anti-migrant party. Led by Tokyo-born entrepreneur and lawmaker Tomio Okamura, it has links to Marine Le Pen's far-right National Front. Islam "is incompatible with democracy and European law and values. The western experience makes this clear," Erlich told AFP. Yet he denied being xenophobic, insisting that he had nothing "against the incredibly hard-working, intelligent Chinese or Vietnamese refugees". The SPD scored 7.3-percent voter support in a September poll by the CVVM institute, surpassing the five-percent threshold a party needs to make it to the 200-seat parliament. Dubbed the "Czech Trump" by tabloids, billionaire businessman Andrej Babis who heads the populist ANO movement poised to win the vote, has also repeatedly said he does not want refugees in the country. "Migration has become a cherished topic for populist parties, particularly single-issue parties, which don't offer anything other than stopping migration," says Yana Leontiyeva, a sociologist at the Czech Academy of Sciences. The rhetoric has struck a chord with Czechs who "are much more worried by migrants compared with other Europeans and also far more critical of the perceived potential benefits of migration," Leontiyeva said. - 'Vicious circle' - Josef Mlejnek, an analyst at Charles University in Prague, said he observed "a shift in the society" as voters who are not traditionally far-right share the same fears. "We have almost no migrants and the Czech Republic is going through its best time economically, we have low unemployment, wages are growing... and yet people are dissatisfied, even angry," he told AFP. "I'm asking myself about the reasons. My guess is a combination of personal frustration and a general problem for instance, Babis keeps saying corruption is everywhere and people get sensitive," Mlejnek added. With unemployment at 3.8 percent in September, the lowest level since 1998, the Czech economy is expected to grow by 3.6 percent, according to the central bank. Anti-migrant sentiment is also fuelled by outspoken President Milos Zeman, who has called the migrant wave "an organised invasion" and said Muslims were "impossible to integrate". "The political scene has degenerated into trade in fear, which is the strategy of almost all political parties," said Pehe. Babis's ANO, which forms the current three-party coalition government with the leftwing Social Democrats and the centrist Christian Democrats, topped the latest CVVM poll with 30.9 percent support. Meanwhile, the Social Democrats, second with 13.1-percent backing, have vowed to stop "illegal migration". The rightwing Civic Democrats, another major party, want countries unable to protect their borders to be ousted from the border-free Schengen zone. "Politicians want to satisfy the people who fear migrants and terrorism and they also highlight the virtual threats or even create them and then offer a solution," said Pehe. "It's a vicious circle." Photo credit: GoFundMe From Cosmopolitan UK The bodies of two people thought to be a couple who went missing back in July have been discovered this week at the Joshua Tree National Park in California, USA. Although the identities have not yet been officially confirmed, the bodies - which are reported to have been found 'locked in an embrace', indicating they perished together - are thought to be those of 20-year-old Rachel Nguyen and 21-year-old Joseph Orbeso, who disappeared while on a hiking trip in the park on July 28th. Fox News claims the couple was reported missing after they failed to check out of the Airbnb they were renting close to the National Park, which is famed for its mesmerising desert landscapes and the iconic spiked trees that grow in the area. The car Rachel and Joseph had been driving was located by police near a popular hiking trail called the Maze Loop shortly after the alarm was raised. top of da world Posted by Rachel Nguyen on Saturday, April 13, 2013 But despite this, and with the help of rescue crews, no trace of the pair had been found until this week. A fundraising page had been set up to help find them, and Joseph's father, Gilbert Orbeso, took part in yet another search operation over the weekend. This time, the group stumbled upon what they believe to be the remains of the young couple. According to Mr Orbeso, the couple were discovered locked in an embrace with one another, suggesting they had supported one another until the end. "I believed I was going to find them. I didn't know when, but I had my answer today," Joseph's father told network KABC. While it's not entirely clear exactly what happened to the couple to lead to this tragic eventuality, authorities believe they got lost on the hike. George Land, a spokesman for Joshua Tree National Park, told the Orange County Register the tracks that were found indicated Rachel and Joshua were indeed lost. "The way the tracks were picked up indicate these people could be walking in circles, which is not uncommon when people are lost," he said. Story continues The couple was described by friends as adept at hiking and outdoors activities. The Mirror reported one of Joseph's friends, Austin Young, said he was "in very good shape" and "a survivalist". But nevertheless, weather conditions are known to become very extreme in the area, and the pair may have found themselves without enough supplies to keep them going. Tragically, the couple had gone on the trip to celebrate Rachel's birthday. "I hope that they can rest in peace now," Joseph's father, Gilbert, said. Follow Cat on Twitter. You Might Also Like Flowers, candles and other items surround the famous Las Vegas sign at a makeshift memorial for victims of the mass shooting: AP Photo/John Locher Nearly 1,400 people were shot in the US in the week following the Las Vegas mass shooting that killed 58 people and injured nearly 500. Based on the data of the National Gun Archive, the total was 1,397 people who were either injured or died in a shooting incident. To calculate the number of people involved, The Independent added the number of injured people and the number of deaths on 1 October - the night of the massacre in Nevada - and one week later on 9 October. Of those 410 were fatal shootings. The full data set is continuously compiled by the National Gun Archive and includes shootings in domestic situations, accidental shootings, drive-bys, murders, armed robberies, mass shootings, other incidents. In total there were 1,319 separate shooting incidents, defined using standards by several US federal government agencies including the FBI and National Institutes of Health. So far in 2017, the numbers are staggering. As of 16 October the number of injuries from shooting incidents was 24,862 have been injured and 12,208 people have died in the US as result of a bullet. In the wake of the Las Vegas shooting, the American gun control debate resurfaced as it does after every mass shooting in the country. Former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and her husband former astronaut Mark Kelly were particularly outspoken, giving a speech outside of Capitol H during which he called the incident "domestic terrorism." Ms Giffords miraculously survived a 2011 assassination attempt during which she was shot in the head while speaking at a public event in Arizona. She continues to live with severe brain injury. Six people were killed including a federal judge and a nine-year-old child that day. However, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders - though emotional when discussing the victims from her podium the day after the shooting - quashed any possible national discussion. Theres a time and place for a political debate, but now is the time to unite as a country, she said. Story continues She noted that it would be premature for us to discuss policy. The mass murder in Las Vegas was the countrys 273rd mass shooting in 275 days, according to the National Gun Archive. Previously, the 12 June 2016 mass shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida in which 49 people died was the deadliest in US history. Police have determined Stephen Paddock was the gunman who opened fire on a crowd of 22,000 people attending the Route 91 Harvest festival on the Las Vegas strip. Using modified weapons, the 64-year-old real estate millionaire fired from the window of his 32nd floor hotel room at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. He is believed to have shot himself just minutes before police stormed the room, where he had checked in a number of days prior. Investigators found nearly 2,000 rounds of ammunition and 47 guns of various types between his car, hotel room, and residences in Mesquite and Reno, Nevada. By Andrei Khalip and Raquel Castillo LISBON/MADRID (Reuters) - At least 36 people died in wildfires raging through parched farmlands and forests in Portugal and another three in neighboring northwestern Spain on Sunday and Monday. Firefighters were battling 50 blazes in Portugal and a similar number in Spain. Portugal's government asked for international help and declared a state of emergency in territory north of the Tagus river - about half of its landmass. Flames ripped across Iberian countryside left tinder-dry by an unusually hot summer and early autumn, fanned by strong winds as remnants of ex-Hurricane Ophelia brushed coastal areas. Television footage showed abandoned villages with many houses in embers and charred vehicles left on the roads. Portuguese opposition parties and the media harshly criticized the government for failing to prevent a new wave of deadly fires after the country's worst ever forest fire in June that killed 64 people. Prime Minister Antonio Costa, however, refused to sack his interior minister and defended his government's attempts to reform the troubled forestry management system. "It's a structural problem that we are facing... This is not a time for resignations, but for solutions. Everything has to be transformed into reforms, to provide responses that the country needs so that nothing stays the way it was after this year," he told reporters after a television address to the nation. "We are aware that the country wants results from us and we're running against time after decades of negligence," Costa told reporters after his address. POOR LAND MANAGEMENT At the heart of the problem is poor land management in Portugal, where traditional small plots have become fire hazards after being abandoned by successive generations of landholders who moved to the cities. Interior Minister Constanca Urbano de Sousa said climate change was also to blame. "We are facing new (weather) conditions ... In an era of climate change, such disasters are becoming reality all over the world," she said, citing the wildfires burning in California. The weekend fires also injured 63 people in Portugal, civil protection service spokeswoman Patricia Gaspar said. The toll could still increase as seven people were unaccounted for. Water-spraying planes could not be deployed against most fires due to gigantic plumes of smoke that reduced visibility. But Gaspar said rains expected late on Monday and on Tuesday in the north of Portugal were likely to bring some relief. The Lisbon government has been criticized for a slow, inefficient response and a lack of fire-prevention policies, leaving Portugal with Europe's largest expanse of woodland burned by wildfires. Portugal's fires have burned over 40 percent of the total in all of the European Union this year. With just 2.1 percent of the EU's landmass, Portugal suffered the biggest fires during 2008-16 as well, with an average of 36 percent of the total. Three people died in Spain's northwestern Galicia region - two of them women found inside a burnt-out car, the third a man in his 70s killed as he tried to save his farm animals, according to local media. Most of the fires in Galicia were started deliberately, said Alberto Nunez Feijoo, head of the regional government. Spanish Interior Minister Juan Ignacio Zoido said some of those responsible had already been identified. They could face up to 20 years in jail if convicted. At least two persons were arrested in Portugal for allegedly starting fires. (Reporting by Andrei Khalip; Editing by Mark Heinrich) Pedestrians walk in front of a large video screen in Tokyo broadcasting a news report showing North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un: TORU YAMANAKA/AFP/Getty Images North Korea has said they are not interested in diplomatic solutions to its tensions with the US until it develops a missile capable of reaching the east coast of America. A North Korean official confirmed Pyongyang's strategy to CNN, adding that "before we can engage in diplomacy with the Trump administration, we want to send a clear message that the DPRK has a reliable defensive and offensive capability to counter any aggression." The latest comment adds to the increasing tension between the US and the isolated Asian nation with its seemingly mercurial leader Kim Jong Un. Donald Trump has publicly traded insults with him, giving him the nickname "Rocket Man" and referring to him as such during the president's speech in front of the United Nations General Assembly. He adding that the North Korean leader was on a suicide mission in continuing to develop a nuclear weapons programme. Mr Kims state news agency then issued a statement in which they referred to Mr Trump as a dotard." Just last week Pyongyang warned Mr Trump's "reckless moves" could hurt Guam, the US territory island in the Pacific approximately 2,100 miles (3,425 km) southeast of North Korea. Mr Trump had recently tweeted that Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was "wasting his time" trying to negotiate with Mr Kim through State Department diplomatic backchannels. He tweeted that "only one thing will work" to deter North Korea's development of its nuclear arsenal, in yet another indication the president thinks military action is the only option left. Mr Tillerson for his part attempted to reassure the American public on Sunday that "diplomatic efforts will continue until the first bomb drops," seeming to indicate the US would only strike as a retaliatory measure. He also said there is no better partner than Secretary of Defence who believes in diplomacy regarding James Mattis' belief that military action should be a last resort. Story continues The Defence Secretary has also stressed the "iron-clad" commitments of the US to allies like South Korea and Japan and reiterated his commitment to diplomatic options in in a statement given in front of the White House on 3 September. However, he also said "any threat to the US", its territories like the Pacific island of Guam, or its allies would be met with a "massive military response ... both effective and overwhelming." The United Nations Security Council, spurred by bold rhetoric from US Ambassador Nikki Haley, imposed the strictest-ever sanctions on the hermit kingdom. The latest round sanctions impose caps on North Koreas oil exports, bans all textile exports, and no country is allowed to issue work permits to those holding North Korean passports. Countries will also be allowed to freeze assets of cargo ships if they refuse to undergo inspections. China, one of Pyongyang's biggest trading partners, has also announced it will no longer open new accounts for North Korean citizens or accept its currency after facing criticism for laundering North Korean money. Last month, a US intelligence official said they had no reason to doubt Mr Kim and his military had developed a hydrogen bomb. The US official said, however, it would take some time to complete a thorough analysis of the size of the blast and type of device detonated during the last North Korean test. In July, US intelligence officials said they believed North Korea had been able to make a nuclear warhead capable of fitting on an intercontinental ballistic missile claiming missiles will have the range to reach the US. Recently, Pyongyang also launched a missile over the Hokkaido island of Japan. South Korea has been preparing for a possible nuclear attack by running drills for residents, including the 120,000 Americans stationed on military bases in the country. Hawaii is also preparing an air siren warning system and informing the public to shelter in place and have food and medical supplies on hand at all times. Kim In Ryong, North Korea's deputy ambassador to the U.N., said Monday that nuclear war could break out at any time. (Photo: JEWEL SAMAD/AFP via Getty Images) North Korea warned a United Nations committee on Monday that a nuclear conflict may break out any moment, continuing a bombastic war of words between the East Asian country and the United States that has only increased in recent months. Kim In Ryong, North Koreas deputy ambassador to the U.N., told the General Assemblys disarmament committee that his country was now a full-fledged nuclear power which possesses the delivery means of various ranges, including the atomic bomb, H-bomb and intercontinental ballistic rockets, according to The Associated Press. The entire U.S. mainland is within our firing range, and if the U.S. dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe, Kim said. The comments, while severe, are relatively routine and echo those made by North Korean diplomats and state media on an almost continuous basis. The country often threatens to turn Washington and the South Korean capital, Seoul, into a sea of fire, and Pyongyang has released propaganda clips showing simulated attacks on the U.S. But the administration of President Donald Trump has amped up its own rhetoric in return in recent months. The president has threatened to totally destroy North Korea and mocked its leader, Kim Jong Un, as a suicidal rocket man on Twitter. Kim notably fired back at Trump last month with his own wordplay, calling the American leader a mentally deranged dotard. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has continued to work on a diplomatic solution, telling CNN on Sunday he would continue to engage with North Korea until the first bomb drops. Trump has also made clear to me that he wants this solved diplomatically, Tillerson continued, dismissing tweets by Trump earlier this month that said the secretary was wasting his time. Hes not seeking to go to war. The U.N. has passed a series of sweeping sanctions against North Korea, which Pyongyang has said are having a colossal effect. But the country has continued to reject proposals to hold any peace talks with South Korea. Story continues Ambassador Kim said Monday that the country would continue to develop its nuclear arsenal, calling it a precious strategic asset that cannot be reversed or bartered for anything. Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the U.S. is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiating table under any circumstances, he said. Trump will visit South Korea next month and speak with President Moon Jae-in, as well as the countrys National Assembly. Reuters has reported that Trump may visit the Demilitarized Zone, following up on a trip Vice President Mike Pence took to the region in April. Also on HuffPost Free time in South Korea Free time in North Korea Youth in South Korea Youth in North Korea Parking lot in South Korea Parking lot in North Korea University students in South Korea University students in North Korea Train station in South Korea Train station in North Korea Street in South Korea Street in North Korea Countryside in South Korea Countryside in North Korea Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Kim has a warning for the allies of US (Getty) North Korea has warned that any country that joins the United States in military action against Pyongyang will be subject to a nuclear attack. The stark comments were included in the prepared notes for a United Nations speech by North Korean deputy ambassador Kim In Ryong, but were not read out. As long as one does not take part in the US military actions against the DPRK [North Korea], we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country, the notes said. The entire US mainland is within our firing range and if the US dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe, it added. Kim did tell the UN General Assembly committee that unless hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the US is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiation table under any circumstance. The statement comes after the UK government put forward a Europe-wide crackdown on North Korea, including a ban on EU investment into North Korea. The proposals, which also include cutting off the export of oil to the country, are under consideration in Luxembourg, but are expected to be approved by ministers. Foreign secretary Boris Johnson said North Korea poses an unacceptable threat to the international community. Maximising diplomatic and economic pressure on North Korea is the most effective way to pressure Pyongyang to halt its illegal and aggressive actions, he said. Tensions have escalated sharply between the United States and North Korea in recent months after Pyonyang tested its most powerful nuclear weapon to date. Donald Trump then issued a bellicose speech at the United Nations in which he threatened to destroy North Korea, and dubbed Kim Jong-un Rocket Man. Our country has been unsuccessfully dealing with North Korea for 25 years, giving billions of dollars & getting nothing. Policy didn't work! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 9, 2017 Earlier in the month, Trump said that any agreements made by previously US governments with the rogue state had been violated before the ink was dry. Story continues Presidents and their administrations have been talking to North Korea for 25 years, agreements made and massive amounts of money paid he wrote. Most popular on Yahoo News UK Man dies after stabbing outside Parsons Green Tube station in London Girl, 8, falls to her death on cruise ship in front of horrified passengers Get off my land! Furious farmer throws punches and drives quad bike into hunt saboteurs in shocking video Parents of man arrested for indecency in Dubai say his life is ruined Trump branded fat f***ing liar by sister of U.S. soldier killed in Iraq He added: hasnt worked, agreements violated before the ink was dry, making fools of U.S. negotiators. Sorry, but only one thing will work! Yesterday, Hillary Clinton said she fears that no one will be able to stop Donald Trump from launching a nuclear attack amid escalating tensions with North Korea. The Democrat, who lost to the Republican in a shock defeat in the US election last year, said there should be stricter processes in place given there was such potential for miscalculation. It comes a week after the former First Lady described Trump as the most dangerous president in US history. She added that the whole world should be concerned by him. UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - North Korea warned countries at the United Nations on Monday in a statement: don't join the United States in military action against the Asian state and you will be safe from retaliation. The caution was contained in a copy of North Korean Deputy U.N. Ambassador Kim In Ryong's prepared remarks for a discussion on nuclear weapons by a U.N. General Assembly committee. However, Kim did not read that section out loud. "As long as one does not take part in the U.S. military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country," according to Kim's prepared remarks. "The entire U.S. mainland is within our firing range and if the U.S. dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe," the statement read. Tensions have soared between the United States and North Korea following a series of weapons tests by Pyongyang and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The U.N. Security Council has unanimously ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs since 2006. North Korean Deputy U.N. Ambassador Kim did tell the U.N. General Assembly committee on Monday: "Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the U.S. is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiation table under any circumstance." Related: For more news videos visit Yahoo View. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by James Dalgleish) (This Oct. 9 story corrects para 18 to show that person attending concert was likely not Kim Yo Jong) By Hyonhee Shin and Soyoung Kim SEOUL (Reuters) - The promotion of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's 28-year-old sister to the country's top decision-making body is a sign he is strengthening his position by drawing his most important people closer to the center of power, experts and officials say. Kim Yo Jong was named as an alternate member of the politburo within the ruling Workers' Party of Korea - the opaque, all-powerful party organ where top state affairs are decided, the North's official media said on Sunday. It makes her only the second woman in patriarchal North Korea to join the exclusive club after Kim Kyong Hui, who held powerful roles when her brother Kim Jong Il ruled the country. "Since she is a female, Kim Jong Un likely does not see her as a threat and a challenge to his leadership," said Moon Hong-sik, research fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy. "As the saying goes blood is thicker than water, Kim Jong Un thinks Kim Yo Jong can be trusted." Unlike her aunt, who was promoted to the politburo in 2012 after serving more than three decades in the party, Kim Yo Jong has risen to power at an unprecedented pace. Kim Kyong Hui has not been seen since her husband, Jang Song Thaek, once regarded as the No.2 leader in Pyongyang, was executed in 2013. South Korea's spy agency believes she is now in a secluded place near Pyongyang undergoing a treatment for an unidentified disease, according to an August briefing to parliament. Jang and his wife are not the only relatives to fall from Kim Jong Un's favor. Kim Jong Un's estranged half-brother, Kim Jong Nam, was killed with a toxic nerve agent at a Malaysian airport in February. Two women are on trial for the murder, which South Korean and U.S. officials believe Kim Jong Un's regime was behind. Kim Jong Nam, who lived in exile in Macau, had criticized his family's dynastic rule and his brother had issued a standing order for his execution, according to some South Korean lawmakers. IN A PONYTAIL AND BLACK SUITS The smartly dressed Kim Yo Jong, her hair usually pulled back in a ponytail and mostly seen in black suits and black-heeled shoes, made her first debut on state media in December 2011, seen standing tearfully next to Kim Jong Un at the funeral of their father. Since then, Kim has made several appearances with her brother, giggling at concerts, riding a white horse, smiling as she receives flowers on his behalf at state functions. Her youth and bubbly personality seen in state media are in stark contrast to the usually glum generals and ageing party cadres who follow Kim Jong Un on official duties. Having previously only occasionally appeared in the background, the young heiress has moved to the front and center of media photos more recently, assisting her brother at numerous high-profile state events. At a massive military parade in April to mark the 105th birth anniversary of founding father Kim Il Sung, she was seen rushing out from behind pillars to bring paperwork to her brother as he prepared to give an address. The same month, she stood alongside him during the unveiling ceremony of a construction project in Pyongyang. In March 2016, she accompanied Kim Jong Un to a field guidance for nuclear scientists, where he claimed successful miniaturization of nuclear warheads. "Kim Yo Jong's official inclusion in the 30-strong exclusive club of North Korea's chief policy makers means her role within the regime will be expanded further," Cheong Seong-chang, senior fellow at the Sejong Institute south of Seoul. BEHIND THE VEIL Apart from her age, little is known about Kim Yo Jong. In February 2011, South Korean TV station KBS showed a woman it identified as Kim Yo Jong and her other brother, Kim Jong Chol, enjoying an Eric Clapton concert in Singapore. However, a Reuters review of those pictures shows it was most likely a different person. The three, who all reportedly went to school in Switzerland, are full blood siblings, born to Kim Jong Il's fourth partner, Ko Yong Hui. Kim Jong Chol, the oldest of Kim Jong Il's sons, does not involve himself in politics, leading a quiet life in Pyongyang where he plays guitar in a band, according to Thae Yong Ho, North Koreas former deputy ambassador in London who defected to the South. In 2014, Kim Yo Jong was made vice director of the Workers' Party's Propaganda and Agitation Department, which handles ideological messaging through the media, arts and culture. The position led the U.S. Treasury Department to blacklist her along with six other North Korean officials in January for "severe human rights abuses" and censorship that concealed the regime's "inhumane and oppressive behavior". Last year, South Korea's former spy chief said Kim Yo Jong was seen "abusing power", punishing propaganda department executives for "minor mistakes". In a North Korean state media photo in January 2015, she was spotted wearing a ring on her fourth finger during a visit to a child care center. South Korean intelligence officials say Kim might have wed a schoolmate from the prestigious Kim Il Sung University, but there has been no confirmation of whether she is indeed married or to whom. (Additional reporting by James Pearson and Haejin Choi in Seoul; Editing by Lincoln Feast) (LISBON, Portugal) A spate of wildfires in Portugal has killed at least 32 people, including a one-month-old infant, authorities said Monday, making this year by far the deadliest on record for forest blazes in the country. In neighboring Spain, wildfires also killed at least four people and prompted the evacuation of thousands in the northwest region of Galicia, as the remnants of winds from Hurricane Ophelia fanned the flames along Iberias Atlantic coast. The late-season fires returned to Portugal four months after a summer blaze claimed 64 lives in one night. This years current total of 96 deaths is far higher than the previous annual record of 25, in 1966. A one-month-old baby was among the dead, the Civil Protection Agency said Monday. It was found near Tabua, some 200 kilometers (120 miles) north of Lisbon, and the bodies of its parents reportedly were found nearby. Officials did not provide further details. More than 50 people were injured, 15 of them seriously, and nine people were reported missing in the blazes that broke out over the weekend, according to the Civil Protection Agency. More than 5,300 firefighters with more than 1,600 vehicles were still battling the fires through dense pine and eucalyptus forests Monday. Portugal endures widespread forest blazes every summer. Most fires are set deliberately, officials say, and spread quickly due to poor forest management which leaves debris that fuels fires. Emergency services recorded 523 wildfires Sunday, the highest number in a single day this year and the highest on one day in more than a decade. You dont see that in any other country in the world, said Civil Protection Agency spokeswoman Patricia Gaspar. A prolonged drought has made the calamity worse this year. We have all our firefighters out there doing everything they can, said Home Affairs Minister Constanca Urbano de Sousa, who is in charge of emergency services and has been the target of criticism for her handling of the tragedy. Story continues She said climate change has brought an additional factor into the battle against woodland fires. Due to climate change, large-scale catastrophes are now a reality all over the world, Urbano de Sousa said. That meant more effort has to be put into preventive measures, she said. Spains prime minister focused on criminal intent, and said authorities were certain the fires were caused by arsonists. What we are seeing here doesnt happen accidentally. This has been induced, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who is from Galicia, said during a visit to a Galician fire department. Officials in both countries said they expected that rain and cooler weather forecast for later Monday would help put out the fires. Video shows passengers on the Bali-bound AirAsia flight wearing oxygen masks - Screengrab of 9 News Passengers on board an AirAsia flight have described the terrifying moment when the plane lost cabin pressure and plunged 20,000 feet shortly after take off. Flight QZ535 was just 25 minutes into its journey from Perth to Bali when it was forced to turn back because of a technical issue on Sunday morning. Oxygen masks dropped from the ceiling as a precaution and the 145 passengers were told to adopt the "brace" position as the plane dropped altitude. "I actually picked up my phone and sent a text message to my family, just hoping that they would get it," Leah, a passenger from Perth, told Nine News. "We were all pretty much saying goodbye to each other. It was really upsetting." Video posted on social media shows a member of the crew saying: "Passengers get down, get down!" A Bali-bound flight has been forced back to Perth after losing cabin pressure. pic.twitter.com/E6ENGBr1og 7 News Perth (@7NewsPerth) October 15, 2017 One of the stewardesses started running down the aisle and we thought, why is she running, Leah said. And then the masks fell down and everybody started panicking. Nobody told us what was going on. Clare Askew, who was also on board, told Seven News people were terrified. "The panic was escalated, because of the behaviour of staff, who were screaming and looked tearful," Ms Askew said. Tracy, from Perth, was on the flight with her young son, Jayden. Passenger Mark Bailey told Seven Network television: "Hostesses started screaming: 'Emergency, emergency.' They just went hysterical." "There was no real panic before that, then everyone panicked," Bailey added. Passenger Norman Pearce told Seven the flight crew said: "Emergency. Crash positions and that was it. Nothing for about five minutes and then the oxygen fell down." Investigators are trying to work out what caused an Air Asia flight to lose cabin pressure and plummet on its way to Bali. #7Newspic.twitter.com/n3SPgYYgSM 7 News Melbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) October 15, 2017 My son said he didnt want to get on another flight but Ive assured him it cant happen twice in a row, she told Nine News. Story continues Its really put me off flying, I fly every year on Air Asia. AirAsia said its engineers at Perth Airport were assessing the aircraft. "The safety of our guests is our utmost priority," it said in a statement. "AirAsia Indonesia apologises for any inconvenience caused." The drama was latest in a number of incidents to befall AirAsia flights in recent months. Four months ago an AirAsia flight from Perth bound for Kuala Lumpur was forced to turn back after an engine reportedly failed and an explosion was heard mid-flight. Less than two weeks after that, an AirAsia X flight had to divert to Brisbane after a suspected bird strike. HAILEY POWER Engineers Inc. has now provided detailed design on more than 1,000 MW of installed geothermal capacity. This milestone was reached after Zorlu Enerji brought a geothermal power plant online earlier this year. Reaching one gigawatt is a huge milestone for us, Kevin Wallace, director of geothermal projects for POWER Engineers said in a statement. Geothermal plants tend to average around 30-50 MW; getting to 1,000 MW takes time and dedication. POWER Engineers is a global consulting engineering firm specializing in the delivery of integrated solutions for energy, food and beverage, facilities, communications, environmental and federal markets. POWER Engineers offers complete multi-discipline engineering, architectural and program management services. Founded in 1976, it is an employee-owned company with more than 2,300 employees and over 40 offices throughout the United States and abroad. More information: visit www.powereng.com. Marawi (Philippines) (AFP) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday symbolically declared a southern city "liberated from terrorists' influence" but the military said the five-month battle against militants loyal to the Islamic State group was not yet over. Duterte led rain-soaked troops in celebration in Marawi a day after the military claimed a major breakthrough as it announced the death of the head of the Islamic State group in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, in a gunbattle in the city. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated from the terrorists' influence that marks the beginning of the rehabilitation," Duterte said, speaking moments after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city. Military spokesmen later clarified that the fighting against 20 to 30 remaining militants continued along with efforts to rescue about 20 hostages. "We are going to get them very soon. We're making sure no hostages and fighters are left," Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the task force battling the militants, told AFP. Asked by reporters if Duterte's declaration was symbolic, Brawner said: "Yes, because we cannot really say that (the area) is 100 percent cleared because even when they declared the end of World War II, there were still stragglers". Another military spokesman, Major-General Restituto Padilla, said Duterte's declaration was issued as a "go signal" for the start of Marawi's rehabilitation. Pro-IS gunmen occupied parts of Marawi, the Islamic capital of the mainly Catholic Philippines, on May 23 following a foiled attempt by security forces to arrest Hapilon, authorities said. Insurgents endured a relentless US-backed bombing campaign and intense ground battles with troops in the nation's longest urban conflict. The military said Monday Hapilon -- who figured on the US "most wanted terrorists" list -- was killed in a dawn offensive alongside Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers who allied with Hapilon to plot the takeover of the city. Story continues Duterte had said Hapilon led an IS bid to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate as the jihadists suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. - Malaysian financier - Philippine troops were hunting down on Tuesday a Malaysian militant tipped to take over IS in the region following Hapilon's death. Mahmud Ahmad is the top remaining target for Philippine forces as the military said he was among six to eight foreign fighters in a battle zone comprising about 60 to 80 buildings. "Mahmud remains... one of our high-value targets in the operations being conducted," Padilla said. Terrorism expert Ahmad Kumar Ramakrishna from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies said if Mahmud Ahmad survived he would likely take over the leadership of IS-linked fighters in the southern Philippines. The militant is also reported to be a university lecturer in his home country who was in charge of raising finances from abroad for the jihadists and recruitment. The restive south of the Philippines is home to a decades-old Muslim separatist insurgency and to extremist gangs that have declared allegiance to IS, including notorious kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf and Maute group. On Tuesday, the military said it raised the alert level in a part of the southern Philippines as it warned against retaliatory attacks from sympathisers of the militants. The United States, a longtime defence ally of the Philippines, vowed on Tuesday to support the military's final push in Marawi. "The US Government will continue to work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the final phases of this operation, and looks forward to cooperating in assuring the stabilisation and rehabilitation of Marawi," US embassy press attache Molly Koscina told AFP. Marawi (Philippines) (AFP) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday declared a southern city "liberated from terrorists' influence" but the military said the five-month battle against militants loyal to the Islamic State group was not yet over. Duterte led rain-soaked soldiers in celebrations in Marawi, a day after the military announced the death of the head of the Islamic State group in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, in a gunbattle in the city. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated from the terrorists' influence that marks the beginning of the rehabilitation," Duterte said, speaking moments after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city. "I promise you this will never happen again," he said as he gave troops a snappy salute. Duterte stood on a gymnasium stage with a ruined roof near a tarpaulin bearing large photos of the dead militants. After he left, soldiers took selfies in front of a bombed-out building while others hoisted a Philippine flag atop a tank. Military chief of staff General Eduardo Ano later clarified that the fighting against 20 to 30 remaining militants continued, describing them as "stragglers" and the clashes as "mopping operations". "The small number of the remaining enemy can now be considered a law enforcement matter and does not constitute (a) serious threat to hinder (rehabilitation)," Ano said in a statement. Troops persisted in efforts to rescue about 20 hostages, Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the task force battling the militants, told AFP. Asked by reporters if Duterte's declaration was symbolic, Brawner said: "Yes, because we cannot really say that (the area) is 100 percent cleared." Pro-IS gunmen occupied parts of Marawi, the main Islamic city in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, on May 23 following a foiled attempt by security forces to arrest Hapilon. Insurgents endured a relentless US-backed bombing campaign and intense ground battles with troops in the nation's longest urban conflict since World War II. Story continues The military said Monday that Hapilon -- who figured on the US "most wanted terrorists" list -- was killed in a dawn offensive alongside Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers who allied with Hapilon to plot the takeover of the city. Duterte had said Hapilon led an IS bid to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate as the jihadists suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. - Malaysian financier - Streets in Marawi were littered with machine gun bullet casings and rubble, including a van and twisted roofing sheets piled up on sidewalks. Troops were hunting a Malaysian militant, Mahmud Ahmad, who has been tipped to take over IS in the region following Hapilon's death. The military said he was among six to eight foreign fighters in a battle zone comprising about 60 to 80 buildings. "Mahmud remains... one of our high-value targets in the operations being conducted," said military spokesman Major-General Restituto Padilla. Terrorism expert Ahmad Kumar Ramakrishna from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies said if Mahmud Ahmad survived he would likely take over the leadership of IS-linked fighters in the southern Philippines. The militant is also reported to be a university lecturer in his home country who was in charge of raising finances from abroad for the jihadists and recruitment. The restive south of the Philippines is home to extremist gangs which have declared allegiance to IS, including notorious kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf and the Maute group. On Tuesday the military warned against retaliatory attacks from sympathisers of the militants. The United States, a longtime defence ally of the Philippines, vowed on Tuesday to support the military's final push in Marawi. "The US Government will continue to work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the final phases of this operation, and looks forward to cooperating in assuring the stabilisation and rehabilitation of Marawi," US embassy press attache Molly Koscina told AFP. Marawi (Philippines) (AFP) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday declared a southern city "liberated from terrorists" after a five-month battle against militants loyal to the Islamic State group. Duterte made the declaration in a rain-soaked speech to troops in Marawi where they have been fighting the militants in clashes that have claimed more than 1,000 lives and displaced 400,000 people. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated from the terrorists," Duterte said, speaking moments just after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city. Duterte's announcement came just hours after the military said it was still hunting down 20 to 30 fighters in the battle zone, including Malaysian militant leader Mahmud Ahmad. On Monday, the military claimed a major breakthrough when it announced the death of Isnilon Hapilon, said by Duterte and security analysts to be the leader of an IS bid to declare a Southeast Asian caliphate as they suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. Google's first Pixel smartphones weren't just smartphones; they were a proclamation that Google was more than just a software giant. They were proof that it could craft first-class devices that showed off what Android was really capable of. The new Pixel 2 and 2 XL continue that new tradition and offer some major changes to the Pixel formula. They're also among the first devices to highlight what's new and notable in Android 8.0 Oreo. While they don't get absolutely everything right, Google's new phones have still managed to further the Pixel's reputation for Android excellence. Hardware Having two nearly identical Pixels last year was a blessing -- the choice between them just boiled down to what size you preferred. Things are different now. The Pixel 2 isn't just the smaller of Google's new phones; it's also the more traditional. That's mostly because of a boxy design that features a 5-inch 1080p OLED screen and some big top and bottom bezels. To anyone hoping for a sleeker small Pixel this year, I'm sorry: the bezels are just about as big now as they were before. At least this time Google made use of that real estate by squeezing stereo speakers above and below the screen. While I'm glad those bezels serve a purpose this time, they still make the Pixel 2 look and feel a bit outdated. While it's been said that the Pixel 2's look was tailored to fit the company's "design ethos," it seems much more like an engineering compromise. Even so, the Pixel 2's smaller screen isn't without upsides. It makes for a device that's remarkably comfortable to hold and use, and the phone's excellent build quality means the Pixel 2 feels like it's built to last. The Pixel 2 XL, meanwhile, offers more of what you'd expect from a flagship smartphone in 2017. It's a bigger, more elegantly designed machine, with a gently curved glass panel draped over its 6-inch P-OLED display. The bezels that run around that screen are much smaller too. At first I was a little let down that Google didn't take a more aggressive approach to eradicating bezels on the new XL. But the logic became clear after about a day: The slim bands of space on either side minimized the number of accidental touches when I reached across the screen with my thumb. Story continues It's quite manageable for a big phone too. Phablet detractors might still have some trouble using the larger XL. But, thanks in part to its tall and narrow 18:9 aspect ratio, I had little trouble getting my average-size hands around it. And if nothing else, Google's updated design language works better when applied to a bigger phone -- the glossy glass window around back doesn't take up as much space, and the camera sits closer to the phone's midline. It's a small touch, but the camera placement just looks nicer on XL. As always, though, the two versions of the Pixel 2 are more alike than different. Like most other flagships we've seen this year, the Pixels use the high-end Snapdragon 835 chipset, paired with 4GB of RAM and the Adreno 540 GPU. Both are encased in handsome glass-and-metal bodies with 12-megapixel camera bumps jutting slightly out of the phones' glass "windows." Both are available in 64GB and 128GB options, with no option to add more storage with a microSD card. Both have always-on displays that show off the time and notifications as they roll in. The list goes on. Intriguingly, the Pixels also pack what was once an HTC-exclusive feature: pressure-sensitive edges that can be squeezed to activate Google's Assistant. It's a neat feature for anyone who hates the idea of saying "OK, Google" in public, though I'll never stop hoping Google will let us remap the pressure trigger for other things. Oh, and for the first time, we have a pair of Pixels that are actually IP67 water-resistant. This might not sound like a big deal, but it's a feature that has become common among premium smartphones. Obviously, taking a dip with a Pixel in hand is a lousy idea, but this additional life-proofing is definitely a welcome addition. (Just ask anyone who ever got pushed into a pool.) Sadly, Google pulled an about-face on the headphone jack. It's gone, and it seems pretty unlikely to ever return. In fairness, Google worked with some wireless headphone makers to improve the Bluetooth pairing process -- the company provided a pair of Libratone Q ADAPT headphones for review to prove the point -- but the trend is still disquieting. It's particularly odd since Google poked fun at the iPhone's lack of a headphone jack last year and LG's V30 (which is a close relative of the Pixel 2 XL) managed to pack the one in just fine. Display and sound It might be bound by big bezels, but the Pixel 2's AMOLED screen is definitely no slouch. In fact, I was surprised to see that the smaller Pixel's display showed off crisper, livelier colors than its big brother. A 1080p panel might seem a little passe in this world of super-high-resolution screens, but the pixel density is more than enough to pick out nitty-gritty details in photos. Viewing angles were great too, and quite honestly, I'm very pleased with how the junior Pixel's screen turned out Meanwhile, the Pixel 2 XL's screen was more of a mixed bag than I expected. It's bigger and more pixel-dense, but colors aren't quite as punchy as on its smaller sibling. Google attributes this to the XL screen's tuning -- the official line is that the company was aiming for more "natural" colors, with the potential for the display's wide color gamut to offer up punchier visuals when necessary. (There's an option for "vivid colors" that's enabled by default in both phones' display settings, but it didn't seem to change much of anything on the 2 XL.) The result is that the 2 XL's screen often produces colors that seem flatter than those on other phones on the market, but I wouldn't necessarily call that a deal-breaker. Less pleasant is the bluish tint that appears when you look at the XL's screen from an angle. I wouldn't call this a deal-breaker either -- the V30 suffers from a similar shift -- but it's a notable shortcoming for a phone that costs this much. Since your phone is going to be smack in front of your face most of the time, it'll be a non-issue for some people. Still, I just can't unsee it. At least the Pixel 2 XL's P-OLED panel doesn't suffer from the same blotchy, uneven look as some V30 screens at low brightness. I used an app called Reading Mode to lower the 2 XL's screen brightness beyond what Android normally allows, opened a pure gray test image and didn't notice anything unusual. Whew. Maybe I'm being a little nitpicky, but you'll definitely find better big screens elsewhere. I was pleasantly surprised by Google's decision to put front-facing stereo speakers on both Pixel 2s. Sadly, neither set is all that impressive. Alt-rock songs like Harvey Danger's "Flagpole Sitta" sounded fuller on the XL, while the regular 2 tends to overemphasize mids and highs. That meant the Pixel 2 delivered crisper vocals, while the XL let them languish in the mix. Ultimately, there isn't a clear winner in the sound department. Neither set of speakers is well suited for the entirety of my weirdo music collection, so the pack-in USB Cto3.5mm adapter or Bluetooth headphones were a must. Software The Pixel 2 and 2 XL are among the first devices to ship with Android 8.0 Oreo, and if history is anything to go on, most Android users won't get it for quite a while. You can expect a full review soon, but for now, let's take a quick look at how it runs on the new Pixels. First off, I've found Oreo to be much cleaner and easier to start working with than earlier versions. The new Settings app is a great example: Google has reduced the number of sections to dig into, and more advanced settings are tucked away in drop-down menus. That means you may need to do a little more tapping to find what you're looking for, but overall, it's friendlier to newcomers. Besides, you can just use the system-wide search to find what you need. Meanwhile, smaller additions like system-wide Autofill make it dead simple to log into accounts and services without struggling to remember your password. Maybe the most obnoxious thing about smartphones is the constant influx of notifications, but Oreo handles them with elegance. The notifications shade, for instance, has been divided into three basic sections. Notifications for ongoing processes, like music and navigation, get top billing. After that, you'll find all the notifications your apps generate, same as always. The last section is the one you might miss -- Google refers to it as a spot for "By the Way" notifications, which typically include traffic updates and the weather. Basically they're like a less intrusive Google Now. App notifications can now be categorized into channels by developers -- the Play Store specifies six of them, for instance -- and you can define how they present themselves to you. I definitely don't want my Pixel to play a sound every time one of my apps is updated, but I may want to see the notification LED blink. Alternately, I might want to mark Play Store account alerts as "urgent" so they make a sound and pop up on-screen. Not every app supports this kind of nuanced notification handling, and most people probably won't bother. Still, there's a lot of depth to Google's approach, and power users should have a great time with them. If you're less discerning about these kinds of things, you can also just tell apps to shut up for an hour. Apps have notification dots now too, though they don't actually tell you how many associated notifications there are. That's fine by me -- iOS's notification badges make me anxious when the numbers get high enough. In Oreo, the dots are color-coded to match the app icon, and long-pressing the icon offers a quick glance at what just rolled in. Oreo also picks up a picture-in-picture feature that first appeared on Android TV last year. It's surprisingly useful on smaller screens. Tapping the home button while watching a video shrinks the window and sticks it in a corner. You can flick it around the screen as needed. Still, the experience hasn't been perfect: not a single nonYouTube Red video app I've tested so far works with picture-in-picture, and having to pay Google $10 a month to use the feature with the company's most popular video service kind of stinks. It's much more effective with Google Maps, though. Minimizing the app allows you to see live navigation directions in the corner of your screen while, say, finding a new song to listen to in Spotify. One of the most jarring changes deals with what's left of Google Now. It's been a platform mainstay since the Jelly Bean days, but the focus has definitely shifted since then. To the left of the home screen is what Google refers to simply as your "feed," which offers info cards on subjects you've recently searched for or topics Google already knows you're interested in. Oh, and every single emoji has been redesigned. Rest in peace, my dear blob friends. So yeah, there aren't a ton of shiny new user-facing features in Oreo. Instead, Google went big on structural changes that should improve the way devices handle over the long haul. Project Treble, for instance, separates Android's core from manufacturers' software tweaks, which should make it easier and faster to roll out updates. Though I'll believe it when I see it. Another feature, Vitals, is a series of system optimizations and analytics tools for developers so they can see if their apps are working as intended. I'll continue to fiddle with Oreo as I work on our full review, but one thing seems clear: it's the most powerful, accessible version of Android I've played with so far, and that bodes well for the Pixel 2 and 2 XL. The Pixel experience The appeal of Google's Nexus line was that you would get a clean, unfettered taste of what the latest version of Android had to offer. Here's the rub, though: any hardware maker can whip up a smartphone and load it up with stock Android. Software cleanliness alone is no longer a sufficient reason to drop hundreds of dollars on a smartphone, and Google gets that -- that's why the Pixel 2 and 2 XL pack a handful of features you won't find on other devices. Let's start with the Pixel Launcher -- it's changed a lot since last year. The Google pill thing is gone, replaced by a persistent search bar that lives just below the Favorites tray. It's now much, much easier to reach with a thumb and start searching. The new At a Glance widget lives where the search bar used to, and it's been handier than I expected. In addition to offering the time, date and temperature, it highlights traffic alerts and your next calendar appointment (before any reminder notifications pop). It has already warned me about a few scheduled phone calls that I'd forgotten about, and for that Google has my thanks. If you want them to, the Pixels will also quietly listen for music playing around you. When they identify a song, the results appear at the bottom of the always-on display, and a quick double tap offers more information via Google Assistant. It's undeniably useful, but also a little creepy -- the privacy implications of a phone that's always listening are hard to ignore. For what it's worth, Google says none of the audio or data ever leaves your phone, and it's powered by machine learning processes right on the device. Even so, it's probably a good thing that Now Playing is off by default. Oh, and, for better or worse, this is one feature that can't be ported to the older Pixels, since it relies on some specific hardware. Also present is a preview version of Google Lens, the image recognition tool the company announced at this year's I/O conference. The concept is simple: Snap a photo of something and Lens will attempt to figure out what it is and offer you additional information. If that sounds a lot like Samsung's Bixby Vision, well, you're spot-on. The difference is that even in its decidedly beta form, Google Lens seems more capable than Bixby. That's partly because Google has dedicated gobs of money and brainpower to image recognition, and because the Knowledge Graph is better suited to returning information about what's in front of the camera. Sure, if you want to try and identify some wine or buy something on Amazon, Bixby might have an edge. Otherwise, Google's Lens seems like the project that really deserves watching. Both versions of the Pixel also work with Google's Project Fi wireless service, but there's a twist. While all versions of the phones have the usual nano-SIM card slots, Fi users can activate and use an embedded SIM, making these two the first mass-market phones to use non-physical SIMs. The best part is, Fi customers will basically never notice the difference. I was able to transfer my Fi service to the Pixel 2 XL in mere moments, and it's been working perfectly ever since. Oh, and Pixel customers have a dedicated support team just a tap away in the settings. If something's gone awry, you can fire up a chat or request a call from a Google tech to help you sort things out. Beyond the usual Pixel niceties, there are a few smaller changes that are still worth pointing out. Holding down the power button brings up a neat little window with options to power off or restart right next to your finger, making it faster to shut the phone down. You have a little more control over media volume; instead of the usual 15 clicks it takes to go from mute to full blast, there are 25 on the Pixels. Oh, and if you're using a Pixel 2 XL, you can pinch to zoom to expand YouTube videos to fill the entire screen rather than viewing them with black bars on the sides. (Apps like Google Play Movies can also play videos using the whole screen, but pinch to zoom doesn't won't work there.) Camera The Pixel 2 and 2 XL share the same 12.2-megapixel camera, and it's already been hyped like crazy -- in DxOMark's rankings, the Pixels seemed to blow rivals like the iPhone 8 Plus and Galaxy Note 8 away. I don't think things are quite that simple. Over a week of testing, both versions of the Pixels proved themselves to be highly impressive performers, to the point that the 2 XL has become my go-to smartphone camera. It's that good, but this race is closer than you might think. In solid lighting conditions, the Pixels absolutely shine. Images came through with plenty of detail and vibrant colors, which have been great for capturing the contrasts of New York City in the fall. It helps that the Pixels shoot in HDR+ by default -- the feature stitches together multiple brief exposures to improve the resulting photo's dynamic range and detail. In case you couldn't tell, it works really, really well. There were only a handful of times when I preferred an iPhone or Note shot over a Pixel photo, and that's a serious testament to how good Google's computational photography skills have gotten. The Pixels are very good in low light too, offering up photos with surprisingly pleasant colors and minimal blur. Problem is, the sensors aren't as good as the Note 8's when it comes to eradicating noise. Look closely and you'll spot plenty of it. There is a trade-off, though: while the Note 8 retains a little more detail and manages to expose dim shots better right off the bat (a function of its slightly better aperture), the Pixels did a better job at reproducing colors naturally. When it comes to zooming, the Pixels are at a clear disadvantage. The dual cameras used in the Note 8 and the iPhone 8 Plus allow for optical zoom, while the Pixels are stuck with digital only. As a result, zoomed photos of objects in the distance have noticeably less detail -- looks like Google's computational approach can't fix everything. It is, however, very good for simulating more complex optics when shooting in Portrait mode. I've been really impressed with how good Google's algorithms are at differentiating between what's in the foreground and what's not. That goes for selfies too. Since the Pixels don't need additional hardware to produce bokeh behind a subject, photos using the 8-megapixel front-facing camera look excellent. (It helps that the Pixels' cameras use a retouching feature to lightly clean up faces.) A lot of work went into making the Pixels two of the best no-nonsense smartphone cameras out there. But for some, it might be a little too simple. There's no Pro mode for manual control, and the only options to tinker with are a focus and exposure lock button and an exposure compensation slider. That's it. Now, are you ready for the really crazy part? There's actually a new image-processing chip baked into the Pixel 2s -- the Pixel Visual Core -- that Google hasn't activated and didn't tell anyone about. It's an octa-core processor Google designed itself that delivers additional horsepower for imaging and HDR processing. Google says it'll push an update in the coming weeks to fire it up. That Google designed its own mobile chip is surprising enough; even more impressive is that every test photo I've taken that used HDR+ hasn't even touched that extra chipset yet. More important, Google says that third-party camera apps will also be able to shoot with the Pixel 2's HDR+ mode when it activates the chipset in the coming weeks. The ability to shoot improved photos from right inside an app like Instagram is a very strong (not to mention surprising) reason to pick a Pixel over the competition. All told, some of the Pixels' camera rivals can outperform it in some areas, and in areas where the Pixels pull ahead, they don't do so dramatically. Even so, if I had to choose a smartphone camera to take with me everywhere, it'd be one of the Google Pixels. They're effortlessly good. It's just too bad that Pixel 2 owners don't get the same sweet deal offered last year. You can store all your full-resolution photos to Google's servers for free as usual, but only until 2020 -- if you're still using a Pixel 2 after that, your uploads will be compressed. Performance and battery life I'm sure this won't come as a surprise, but the Pixel 2 and 2 XL are incredibly fast. Part of that is obviously due to the high-end Snapdragon chipset Google used, but we also have some of the under-the-hood performance tweaks to thank. All of that comes together for an experience that's among the smoothest I've encountered: frenzied multitasking (even in split-screen mode) is an absolute breeze, and none of the graphically intense games I threw at it gave me any trouble whatsoever. Flagship performance has become almost ubiquitously good this year, but the Pixel's dearth of software bloat gives it an edge over devices like the Note 8. It just feels faster. Still, it's not perfect. I ran into some occasional issues with games like Tempest, a pirate-themed RPG that has you cruising the open seas searching for trouble. While most games I tried handled the Pixel 2 XL's longer screen without issue, Tempest left a chunk of empty space between the edge of the app window and the on-screen navigation keys. This is something developers will need to keep in mind as these kinds of displays become more popular. Google Pixel 2 Google Pixel 2 XL Google Pixel Google Pixel XL Galaxy Note 8 AnTuTu (total) 152,491 159,382 139,218 141,065 166,673 3DMark IS Unlimited 38,898 39,235 28,645 29,360 38,960 GFXBench 3.0 1080p Manhattan Offscreen (fps) 52 52 46 48 55 CF-Bench N/A N/A 39,997 39,918 67,415 Meanwhile, Google basically nailed its battery life proclamations. The smaller Pixel 2 packs a 2,700mAh battery. And yes, that's just a hair less capacious than the original Pixel's was. Still, it was more than enough to get me through a full day and then some. You could feasibly stretch that out to a day and a half if you use the phone sparingly. The XL's larger 3,520mAh battery is clearly the one worth yearning for, though. It routinely lasted at least through a day and a half of nearly constant use. And I could easily have dragged that out to two full days had I not spent so much time sucked into a freemium Digimon game all week. The competition On the Android side, Google's fiercest competition comes from -- who else? -- Samsung. The Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus were released at the beginning of the year, and they use the same Snapdragon brain as both of the PIxel 2s. Beyond that, their expansive Infinity Displays are almost beyond reproach and easily outshine the panels Google used this year. Both also have excellent cameras, and while I prefer what Google has achieved with the Pixels, the S8s have a slight edge in low-light photography. Honestly, the decision boils down to software: The S8s still run a version of Android 7.0 Nougat painted over with Samsung's custom interface. It's swimming in Samsung apps too, including the lackluster Bixby virtual assistant. Google's cleaner approach, coupled with the promise of software updates for three years, will make the Pixels more attractive to some. If you're not already wedded to Android, the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus are also strong options. Don't let their traditional designs fool you: both of Apple's new smartphones feature terribly fast A11 Bionic chipsets, and Apple's constellation of quality apps is nothing to sneeze at. Things get a little trickier when it comes to photography, though. While the 8 Plus's dual camera certainly gives the Pixel 2 XL a run for its money, the smaller Pixel 2 easily outclasses the iPhone 8's single sensor. Wrap-up I find it difficult to make sweeping statements like "This is the best phone out there, period," because such generalizations are prone to be wrong for a lot of people. That said, I can safely say the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are the best Android phones I've used all year (and I've used a lot of them). While I don't agree with all of Google's choices, something special is bound to happen when a company as smart as Google takes such strict control over how its vision of smartphones should be realized. The optimist in me thinks we haven't seen Google at its best yet, either -- remember, Google's hardware team just picked up 2,000 new employees from a company that itself made some truly memorable phones over the years. I fully expect things to get even better in time, but for now, Android fans shouldn't miss the Pixel 2 and 2 XL. Warsaw (AFP) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met Tuesday with his Polish counterpart in Warsaw, his first official bilateral visit to an EU country since the failed 2016 coup in Turkey. Although Erdogan visited Belgium in May for a NATO meeting and Hamburg for a G20 summit in July, Poland was the first EU country to invite him since Ankara's massive crackdown on alleged coup plotters. EU powerhouse Germany has criticised the measures as excessive and has hindered Turkey's bid to join the bloc. But Erdogan found a friendly voice in Warsaw. "Poland supports Turkey's aspiration to join the European Union," said Polish President Andrzej Duda, appearing with Erdogan before journalists. Accession talks between Brussels and Ankara have essentially stopped. German Chancellor Angela Merkel recently called for a halt to negotiations but most of the other EU nations want to keep a fragile line open. Erdogan said if the EU thinks "the accession of Turkey is not possible, then it should finally tell us so." The Turkish and Polish leaders also discussed defence cooperation through NATO, and the issue of energy as both countries count on coal for part of their energy needs. SHANGHAI, China - The new Polestar 1 is almost, but not quite, a 600 horsepower Volvo. Introduced today at the launch of Volvo's new Polestar brand here in Shanghai, the Polestar 1 has a lot of Volvo DNA, but has been turned up to 11 by the fine folks at Polestar formerly Volvo's internal tuning house. It's built on the same Scalable Product Architecture that underpins the XC90, the new XC60, and the rest of Volvo's new-generation 60- and 90- series cars. It sort of uses the same Drive-E twin-engine powertrain that you can find in the T8 versions of a number of Volvo's latest generation cars it even looks like a Volvo, inside and out. Clearly inspired by the Volvo Concept Coupe from a few years ago, the Polestar 1 will be the halo car for Volvo's new performance marque. It's a two-door, 2+2 grand tourer coupe that puts out 600 horsepower and 737 foot-pounds of torque from its plug-in hybrid powertrain. Polestar says fifty percent of the car is "new and bespoke," designed by engineers within the new company. Power comes from a four-cylinder Drive-E engine brought over from Volvo's current line of cars, with a pair of electric motors driving the rear wheels connected via planetary gears. The electric motors produce 218 horsepower on their own, and the car carries enough juice to go more than 90 miles on electric power alone (though Polestar didn't specify whether that was under the American or European testing cycle). That would make it the longest-range PHEV on the market if it were available today. "We consider it an electric car with support from an internal combustion engine," said Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath. "The Polestar 1 bridges today's technology with the future." The company says all of its future models will be completely electric. The Polestar 1 measures 14-feet 9-inches long, a drop of more than two feet from Volvo's S90 sedan, including a reduction of a foot from the wheelbase and another nearly eight inches from the rear. It has a new "Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension" from Ohlins that fits an electronic valve on each shock absorber that can change ride characteristics based on driver input and conditions. As an added bonus, the driver can adjust chassis damping and ride quality on the fly. The planetary gears on the double-electric rear axle allow for torque vectoring in the corners, while Akebono 6-piston brake calipers and 15.75-inch discs help keep things under control. Much of the car is made from carbon fiber, including most of the major body parts, making for a total body weight reduction of more than 500 pounds, with a 48:52 front-to-rear weight distribution. The interior looks straight out of a top-of-the-line S90, though that's not a bad thing. With Volvo's legendarily comfortable seats and excellent Sensus infotainment system, Polestar gets a huge benefit from appropriating Volvo's luxurious interior. Story continues Polestar 1 Polestar 1 Polestar 1 Just 500 Polestar 1's will be made available each year through a new online-only ordering process and don't expect to buy one, either. Polestar's cars will only be available through two- and three- year subscriptions with insurance and maintenance included. The Polestar 1 order book opens today, and production is expected to begin in mid-2019. But that's not the only car that Polestar has in the works. Polestar 2 is a midsize all-electric sedan that will compete with the Model 3 (and whatever else is announced between now and its 2019 on-sale date). The Polestar 2 is currently in the engineering phase and Polestar says it will start production before the end of 2019, in higher volumes than Polestar 1. Polestar 3, which is in the final design phase, will be a "larger SUV-style" electric car. It will sit between Polestar 1 and 2 in both volume and pricing. All Polestar's cars will, at least initially, be assembled at a purpose-built facility in Chengdu, China, and the brand will remain a subsidiary of Volvo Car Group, though it is set up as a 640 million euro joint venture between Volvo and parent company Zhejiang Geely Holding. Everything, from test drives and ordering to on-demand services like car-washes and valet, will be handled through a dedicated Polestar app. A number of Polestar Space locations will be opened beginning in the first quarter of 2019, allowing customers to see the cars and speak with Polestar product specialists in person. They will be completely separate from Volvo showrooms, though existing Volvo dealerships will handle maintenance and servicing of Polestar vehicles. "Being part of the Volvo Car Group enables Polestar to design, develop and engineer our cars using the processes of a well-established car company," says Ingenlath. "But at the same time, enables us to experiment with new technology in lower volume cars outside the mainstream segments." Related Video: Polestar 1 First Look | The 600 horsepower hybrid Scandinavian originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Oct 2017 07:00:00 EDT. (WASHINGTON) President Donald Trump blamed Senate Republicans, not himself, for the stalled GOP agenda Monday ahead of a crucial White House lunch meeting with Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on getting make-or-break tax legislation back on track. The president also expressed understanding for former senior aide Steve Bannons all-out war on the GOP establishment, an insurgent attack on McConnell and others that unnerves the GOP and could threaten the partys majority grip on Congress. Im not going to blame myself. Ill be honest they are not getting the job done, Trump told reporters at a Cabinet meeting. He said there are Republicans frankly who should be ashamed of themselves. Trump repeatedly has blamed McConnell for the failure of the GOP Congress to repeal and replace Barack Obamas Affordable Care Act after years of Republican and Trump promises to dismantle the law. He also has hinted at deals with Democrats on immigration. Through the remainder of the year, Congress has a hefty agenda of must-do items and legislation that Trump has kicked to lawmakers to handle, from changes to the Iran nuclear accord to keeping the government open, from a tax overhaul to dealing with the young immigrants brought to the country as children and living here illegally. Bannon, back at Breitbart News after helping Trump win the presidency and serving in the West Wing, is committed to dumping McConnell, the Senate leader from Kentucky. In a speech to religious conservatives Saturday, Bannon suggested that GOP incumbents may avoid challengers from the right flank of the party if they disavow McConnell and meet other conditions. This is our war, Bannon said. The establishment started it. You all are gonna finish it. Trump on Monday told reporters that he understands his former chief strategists anger at McConnell and his frustration with Republican senators who oppose the White House agenda. I can understand where Steve Bannons coming from, said the president, calling Bannon a friend who wants to get things done. Story continues Trump said that he has great relations with many senators in his party, but complains that theyre not getting the job done. Sen. Susan Collins, a Maine moderate who just passed up a run for governor and was a pivotal no vote on health care, said Bannons rhetoric is exactly what the American people are tired of. They dont want this hyper-partisanship. They want us to work together. And they want us to get things done, she said. Collins, whos served in the Senate since 1997, added that Bannons over-the-top rhetoric is not helpful. Mitch McConnell is the Senate majority leader. The president needs him. Im glad theyre working together on tax reform and a lot of other issues. And Im glad theyre meeting this week. McConnell responded to Trumps Twitter barrage after the failed health care effort by saying that the challenges of governing should come as no surprise. A lot of people look at all that and find it frustrating, messy. Well, welcome to the democratic process. Thats the way it is in our country, McConnell said at a GOP event in Kentucky this summer. Trump, a former Democrat himself, cut a deal with Democratic leaders on raising the U.S. borrowing limit and keeping the government running into the winter. The president has also talked about future arrangements, though his recent list of immigration demands soured Democrats who had seen an earlier opening for legislative progress. Hard-right conservatives frustrated by the stalled agenda in Congress wrote in a letter last week during the Senates break that McConnell and his leadership team should step aside. The senators weeklong recess also drew criticism from the White House: Theyre on another vacation right now. I think that we would all be a lot better off if the Senate would stop taking vacations and start staying here until we actually get some real things accomplished, Trump spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders had said. Meanwhile, a McConnell-backed political committee spent millions to support Alabama Sen. Luther Strange in a recent primary election and Trump endorsed him, but Bannon-backed Roy Moore prevailed. Moore, a former judge, has defied federal court orders, described Islam as a false religion and called homosexuality evil. Senate Republicans had been upbeat about adding to their 52-48 edge in the chamber, especially with Democrats defending more seats next year 10 in states Trump won in last years presidential election. But the Bannon challenge could cost them, leaving incumbents on the losing end in primaries or GOP candidates roughed up for the general election. Collins spoke on ABCs This Week, and Graham appeared on CBS Face the Nation. President Donald Trump held a press conference Monday at the White House with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, where the President took questions for nearly forty minutes on a huge range of topics. Trump weighed in on everything from the current crisis to Puerto Rico (he said that the island has more generators than anywhere else in the world, but did not provide statistics), whether he is considering firing special counsel Robert Mueller (hes not), and his plans to call the families of the U.S. soldiers recently killed in an attack in Niger. Read the full transcript below: [*] TRUMP: Thank you very much. I just want to say that we just spent quite a bit of time inside with the Senate majority leader, Mitch McConnell, who has been a friend of mine for a long time, long before my world of politics, early into his world of politics, I think. But weve been friends for a long time. TRUMP: We are probably now despite what we read, we are probably now, I think as least as far as Im concerned closer than ever before. And the relationship is very good. Were fighting for the same thing. Were fighting for lower taxes, big tax cuts the biggest tax cuts in the history of our nation. Were fighting for tax reform as part of that. We are getting close to health care. Well itll come up in the early to mid-part of next year. Were going to have a vote. I think we already have the votes. We feel confident we have the votes. You pretty much know what the plan is. I believe Republicans and Democrats are, as we speak, working together very hard right now working together to do an intermediate plan, a short-term plan, because Obamacare is a disaster. The rates have gone up. The premiums have gone up. The deductibles have gone through the roof. I mean, its terrible. You look at the deductibles. Unless you really have a problem, youre not going to be able to use them. So we have we have been working together long and hard. We think were in good shape for the budget. We hope. And we hope to be in good shape with the again, the largest tax cuts ever passed in this country. Story continues Its going to spur business. You look at other countries, what theyve done and were competing with other countries. When Chinas at 15 percent, when I hear that Ireland is going to be reducing their corporate rates down to 8 percent from 12. But you have other countries also reducing. We cant be at 35 percent and think were going to remain competitive in term of companies and in terms of jobs. So we worked on that. I was very honored to see a man that Ive had a lot of respect for, James Lee Witt, of the Clinton administration, the head of FEMA he he gave us an A-plus. I just see it just came out. And Ive always had respect for him. He gave us hes the FEMA director of the Clinton administration. Gave us an A-plus for how we responded to the hurricane aftermath, all of the hurricanes, and that includes Puerto Rico. So I just want to thank Mr. Witt, wherever you may be now, wherever you may be listening. I just want to say I really much appreciate, because that took it out of politics, out of the world of politics, in that he was with the Clinton administration, and Im sure remains loyal to the Clinton administration. I hope he does. So just to finish off, my relationship with this gentlemen is outstanding, has been outstanding. We are working very hard to get the tax cuts. We will continue to work hard to get the health care completed. Im going to be surprising some people with an economic development bill later on, but I havent even told Mitch because I want to focus on tax cuts and some other things right now. TRUMP: One of the unspoken elements that we discussed at lunch and it just is not talked about yes, we got a great justice, Justice Gorsuch, into the United State Supreme Court. He is going to be outstanding, hopefully for many, many years. But something that people arent talking about is how many judges weve had approved, whether it be the Court of Appeals, circuit judges, whether it be district judges. We have tremendous, right now, under review. The Democrats are holding them up beyond anything beyond comprehension, theyre holding them up. I mean, frankly, they have terrible, terrible policy terrible policy, and perhaps theyre not even good politicians, but they are good at obstruction. So I looked at some of these numbers. Between the judges and I I want to say that we will set records in terms of the number of judges. And if you read the Wall Street Journal, I have to give them a a little bit of a a person a writer, I wont mention names, but you can look at who has really been a really fair person, wrote an article or or wrote an editorial, in a sense, saying how well were doing with judges and appointments. I think its one of the big unsung things of this administration, in addition to the fact that we have had a lot of legislation passed, on the V.A. and lots of other things. But the judge story is an untold story; nobody wants to talk about it. But when you think about it, Mitch and I were saying, that has consequences 40 years out, depending on the age of the judge but 40 years out. So numerous have been approved. Many, many are in the pipeline. The level of quality is extraordinary. And I just wanted to say that were working very closely on that also, and getting really great reviews from those people, and in many cases, some scholars that have been studying it. There has never been anything like what weve been able to do together with judges. So with that, Id like to have Mitch say a few words. And if you want to do a little question and answer, we can do that also. Thank you very much. Thank you. MCCONNELL: Well, thank you very much, Mr. President. I want to underscore what the president said. We have the same agenda. Weve been friends and acquaintances for a long time. We talk frequently. We dont give you a readout every time we have a conversation, but frequently we talk on the weekends about the issues that are before us. Obviously, passing the budget, which enables tax reform and tax deduction comes next. Then the supplemental, to take adequate care of those whove been harmed by the natural disasters weve been afflicted with lately. And of course the Senates unique role, that seems to me a lot of people forget, were in the personnel business. There are 1,200 of the presidents nominations subject to confirmation in the Senate. The House is not in the personnel business; we are. The single most significant thing this president has done to change America is the appointment of Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court. But its not just the Supreme Court. There are a lot of vacancies at both the circuit court and district court level. As the presidents indicated, young, conservative and when we say conservative about a judge, what were talking about here are the kind of people the presidents appointing to the courts believe that the role of a judge is to try to rule based upon what the law says, not what they hoped the outcome would be. As Justice Scalia used to say, if the judge is not occasionally unhappy with the conclusion he reach, hes not a very good judge. Or as Justice Gorsuch put it down in my state a couple of weeks ago, judges dont wear red, they dont wear blue, they wear black. And those are the kind of people the president is sending up to the Senate to be confirmed. Many of them, as he pointed out, younger, who will be on the bench for a long time and have a great deal to do with what kind of country were going to have far into the future. Legislatively, obviously the top priority is tax reduction. And I think what the president and I would both like to say to you today, contrary to what some of you may have reported, we are together totally on this agenda to move America forward. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: John (ph)? QUESTION: Mr. President, what is the timetable for tax reform? Speaker of the House Paul Ryan said he wants to get it done by the end of the year; even (ph) make the House stay through the Christmas break in order to get it done. Senate majority leader said, Well get it done this Congress. Would you be OK if tax reform was not passed until next year instead of this year? TRUMP: Well, I would like to see it be done this year, John (ph). I would like very much to see it be done this year. So we wont go a step further. If we get it done, thats a great achievement. But dont forget, it took years for the Reagan administration to get taxes done. Ive been here for nine months a little more than nine months. I can say the same thing for health care. If you look at Obama first of all, you look at Clinton, they werent able to get it done. You look at other adminis they werent able to get it done. President Obama, after a long period of time, was able to finally push it through, but pushed through something thats now failed. Really failing badly. But again, were meeting Democrat, Republican are meeting right now, and right now theyre working on something very special. But I have to tell you, I really believe that we have a very good chance and I think Mitch feels the same way of getting the of getting the taxes done, hopefully fairly long before the end of the year. Thats what wed like to see. Go ahead. (CROSSTALK) MCCONNELL: Could I just add? Yeah, let me just let me just add to what the president said. The goal is to get it done this calendar year. But it is important to remember that Obama signed Obamacare in March of year two. Obama signed Dodd-Frank in July of year two. Were going to get this job done, and the goal is to get it done by the end of the year. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: And just to finish up for Mitch and were nine months, right? MCCONNELL: (inaudible) TRUMP: So so we could have a long way to go, but thats OK. Yes? QUESTION: Thank you very much. Thanks for (inaudible) question. One, do you still have confidence in Representative Tom Marino to be your drug czar? And on health care, in a recent tweet, you said, The only problem I have with Mitch McConnell is that after hearing repeal and replace for seven years, he failed. That should never have happened. Do you still think he failed? (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Well, lets go QUESTION: Do you have confidence in (inaudible)? TRUMP: Lets go to the second part of your question, with Mitch. Again, weve been doing health care for, really, seven months and probably six months, if you think about it, because we started in probably a total of six months. Others were two and a half years, and much more than that. Others were eight years, and they didnt get it passed. This man is going to get it done, OK? And I think get it done long before anybody else. And I think its going to be a great health care. As far as Tom Marino, so he was a very early supporter of mine the great state of Pennsylvania. Hes a great guy. I did see the report. Were going to look into the report. Were going to take it very seriously. Because were going to have a major announcement, probably next week, on the drug crisis and on the opioid massive problem, and I want to get that absolutely right. This country, and frankly the world, has a drug problem. The world has a drug problem. But we have it and were going to do something about it. So Im going to have a major announcement on that problem next week. Were going to be looking into Tom. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Thank you, Mr. President. (inaudible). Id like to ask you, do you support the plan by people who previously served in your administration, such as Steve Bannon, to primary Republican candidates in the 2018 elections who do not support your agenda? TRUMP: Well, I have a very good relationship, as you know, with Steve Bannon. Steves been a friend of mine for a long time. I like Steve a lot. Steve is doing what Steve thinks is the right thing. Some of the people that he may be looking at, Im going to see if we talk him out of that, because frankly, theyre great people. What Mitch will tell you is that, maybe with the exception of a few and that is a very small few I have a fantastic relationship with the people in the Senate, and with the people in Congress. I mean, I have a with our House of Representatives. I have a great relationship with political people. If you read the papers, you think its Im like on one island, and theyre like on the other. Well, its not the way it is. We have a fantastic relationship. Im friends with most of them. I can say, and I I dont think anybody could have much of a higher percentage, but Im friends with most of them. I like and respect most of them. And I think they like and respect me. Just so you understand, the Republican Party is very, very unified. When we get things approved, we have to go through hell, because we have no Democrat support. We have nobody. We dont have a vote from the Democrats. As an example, massive tax cuts. We may not get any Democrat votes. Now, we also may get three or four. But we may get no For massive tack cut tax cuts. Were the highest-taxed country in the world, and yet we may get no Democrat support. And thats because theyre obstructionists, and they just basically want us to do badly, but thats not going to happen. Yes, go ahead. QUESTION: On the opioid crisis, I listened to you on the campaign trail talk about that repeatedly. TRUMP: Right. QUESTION: You said you watched the 60 Minutes report last night. TRUMP: Yes. QUESTION: Number one, do you want to reverse the law that Congressman Marino helped pass that that the DEA whistleblowers say has contributed to the expansion of the opioid crisis? TRUMP: Were going to look at that very closely. QUESTION: And does his sponsorship of that law in any way undermine your confidence in him as the drug tsar (ph)? TRUMP: Well, hes a good man. I have not spoken to him, but I will speak to him, and Ill make that determination. And if I think its I think if I think its 1 percent negative to doing what we want to do, I will make a change, yes. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: What about declaring a written national emergency for this crisis? You talked about it, but you havent (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: We are going to be doing that next week. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: By the way, you know, thats a big step. By the way, people have no understanding of what you just said. That is a very, very big statement. Its a very important step. And to get to that step a lot of work has to be done, and its time- consuming work. Were going to be doing it next week, OK? (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Did you have the chance during your lunch today to discuss the comments that Steve Bannon made this weekend? And what do you make of those comments, concerning war on the Republican Party? MCCONNELL: You know, the goal here is to win elections in November. Back in 2010 and 2012, we nominated several candidates, Christine ODonnell, Sharon Engel, Todd Akin, Richard Mourdock. Theyre not in the Senate. And the reason for that was that they were not able to appeal to a broader electorate in the general election. My goal as the leader of the Republican Party in the Senate is to keep us in the majority. And the way you do that is not complicated. You have to nominate people who can actually win, because winners make policy and losers go home. We changed the business model in 2014. We nominated people who could win everywhere. We took the majority in the Senate. We had one skirmish in 2016; we kept the majority in Senate. So our operating approach will be to support our incumbents, and in open seats, to seek to help nominate people who can actually win in November. Thats my approach. Thats the way you thats the way you keep a governing majority. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Mr. President, earlier today you criticized drug companies and also insurance companies, saying that drug companies were charging prices that were too high and insurance companies were taking government money. TRUMP: Exactly right. QUESTION: What specifically would you like to see both of those types of companies do? TRUMP: So, the insurance companies have made a fortune with Obamacare, an absolute fortune. As you know, what I did with the cuts at the end, which were all going you know, youre talking about hundreds of millions of dollars a month going right into the pockets of the insurance companies. And Im very happy with what I did. And because of that, people are talking now, Democrats are talking to the Republicans for a short-term, taking care of what we will call health care, so that people can have good health care without big spikes. You would have had massive spikes. You already have. I mean, every year the massive spikes to Obamacare have been ridiculous. As far as and I didnt speak to Mitch about this today, but a priority of mine, and you know that this is coming up, will be the cost of prescription drugs. Were going to get the costs way down, way down and those drug companies. So you have the insurance companies on the one case (ph). In the other case, actually with regard to both you have the drug companies. They contribute massive amounts of money to political people. I dont know, Mitch, maybe even to you. But I have to tell you, they contribute massive amounts of money. Me? Im not interested in their money. I dont need their money. I will tell you, you have prescription drugs you go to England, you go to various places, Canada, you go to many, many countries, and the same exact pill from the same company, the same box, same everything is a tiny fraction of what it costs in the United States. We are going to get drug prices prescription drug prices way down, because the world is taking advantage of us. The world is taking advantage of us when that happens, so thats going to be very important. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: On health care, there are about 6 million people that get subsidies to help pay for Obamacare; about 70 percent, by one study, from states that you won in November. TRUMP: Yes. QUESTION: Now youve cut off these payments, are you going to ensure that those people will still get help from the federal government (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Remember (ph) were looking to do, Joe. We want to get it down so that people can have affordable health care. Look, you look at some states, 116 percent up. In Alaska, over 200 percent up. In other states, 50 percent, 70 percent up, and those are some of the states that are doing better. Obamacare is a wreck. Its a mess. Its destroying lives. We want to get it in those states the states that I did so well in but also in states that I didnt win. I want to get health care thats much more affordable and much better health care. And thats what were doing. Yes? (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: I want to ask you about tax reform. TRUMP: All right (ph), tax reform. QUESTION: Yes, tax reform. You had said the other day that there were some adjustments being made. TRUMP: Yeah. QUESTION: Gary Cohn said today that there would be some some things that are negotiable. What exactly, in your eyes, is negotiable? QUESTION: And then for the leader, you said that the top priority is tax reduction. You did not say tax reform in 2017, Leader McConnell. So can you comment specifically to tax reform in 2017, for the both of you? TRUMP: So we are doing minor adjustments. We want to make sure that the middle class is the biggest beneficiary of the tax cuts and tax reform. And thats, Im sure, what Mitch meant also, because people get it confused. Were doing massive tax cuts. Were also doing simplification and reform. Simplification we are literally if we can do it on one page now, in some cases, it may be two pages. But were doing major simplification. Were bringing the categories down from if you include zero, because there are zero were bringing it from eight to four. Thats a big, big simplification, just that alone. But we are doing a the massive cuts. And I will say this: Wherever Ive been, this has been so popular with the people. Now we have to get a couple of additional people to raise their hands. Mitch? (CROSSTALK) MCCONNELL: Yeah, I agree with the president. Its about both reduction and reform. Its been 30 years since this kind of effort was undertaken successfully, and were going to succeed this time. The bills, the details of them, will be written by the Ways and Means and Finance Committees after we approve the budget. And obviously, the budget opens the path to tax reform. But its a both its about both, about both reform and reduction. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Why havent we heard anything from you so far about the soldiers that were killed in Niger? What do you have to say about (OFF-MIKE)? TRUMP: Ive written them personal letters. Theyve been sent, or theyre going out tonight, but they were written during the weekend. I will, at some point during the period of time, call the parents and the families, because I have done that traditionally. I felt very, very badly about that. I always feel badly. Its the toughest the toughest calls I have to make are the calls where this happens. Soldiers are killed. Its a very difficult thing. Now, it gets to a point where, you know, you make four or five of them in one day its a very, very tough day. For me, thats by far the toughest. So the traditional way if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didnt make calls. A lot of them didnt make calls. I like to call when its appropriate, when I think I am able to do it. They have made the ultimate sacrifice. So generally I would say that I like to call. Im going to be calling them. I want a little time to pass. Im going to be calling them. I have as you know, since Ive been president, I have. But in addition, I actually wrote letters individually to the soldiers were talking about, and theyre going to be going out either today or tomorrow. QUESTION: Why did it take you Mr. President, why did it take you so long (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Thank you, Mr. President. General Kelly said on just last week that you believe that Cuba could stop the attacks against Americans. Do you believe, then, that Cuba is TRUMP: I do. I think Cubas (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: do you believe that (ph) Cubas responsible? TRUMP: I do believe Cubas responsible. I do believe that. And its a very unusual attack, as you know. But I do believe Cuba is responsible. Yes? (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Roy Moore down in Alabama has said that he believes homosexuality should be illegal, and that Muslims should be barred from serving in the U.S. Congress. What makes you comfortable with someone with those beliefs serving in the U.S. Senate? And the same question to you, Mr. Leader. TRUMP: Well, Im going to be meeting with Roy sometime next week, and were going to talk to him about a lot of different things. But Ill be meeting with him. He ran a very strong race. The people of Alabama, who I like very much and they like me very much but they like Roy, and well be talking to him, and I can report to you then, OK? (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Go ahead. QUESTION: Hi, Mr. President, (inaudible) this is a question for you and for Leader McConnell, following up on your comments on budget. One of the issues outstanding right now is whether the Senate Judiciary Committee will keep the tradition of blue slips. And Im wondering (inaudible), Mr. President, and what your position is, Leader McConnell. As you know, this is the tradition, but right now, it gives Democrats the leverage over the appointments (ph). MCCONNELL: I can give you my position. The blue slip, for those of you who are not familiar with it, is a is a custom determined by the chairman of the Judiciary Committee. And Senator Grassley can give you his view of how he views it. Ill give you my view. My view is that a blue slip on a circuit judge is simply a notification of how youre going to vote. To conclude otherwise wouldve left us in the following position at the beginning of this Senate: 48 Democratic senators wouldve been able to blackball 62 percent of the circuit judge nominees. MCCONNELL: Thats simply not a tenable place to land in a Senate that now deals with judges on the with a simple majority. So my own personal view is that a blue slip on a circuit judge should simply be a notification of how you intend to vote. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: We could talk blue slips, but my attitude is I just want really capable people going to the courts. Peter? (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Mr. President, in 2012 you tweeted that Obamas complaints about Republicans stopping his agenda are B.S., in your words, since he had full control for two years. You wrote, He can never take responsibility. But today, you said about some of the challenges right now in Congress and in Washington, Im not going to blame myself. Ill be honest. Theyre not getting the job done. So whats different then than now? TRUMP: Well, let me just explain whats different. We have nominations pending right now, and we have 182 approve if you look at this, the number that he had approved was 65 percent and 70 percent, and we have 39 percent. Theyre holding up every single nomination. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) TRUMP: Schumer and the group are holding up every single nomination. They are obstructing. Theyre doing its really what Im telling you, theyre not good politicians, but theyre very good at obstruction. They are holding up every single nomination. And I will tell you, Peter, its not right. Its really not right. Theyll bring them right out to the end, that last minute. What theyre doing is unfair. So you look at even Bush, you look at Obama, you look at Clinton and you look at Bush original: you have 389 versus 182. These are approvals. You look at Clinton: 357 versus 182. You look at President Obama: 364 versus 182. These are nominations approved, and what theyre doing to us. We have unbelievable people and theyre waiting to be approved. Theyve been waiting for a long period of time. Now, I do believe that Mitch is going to start pushing them very hard. And he can do that, and he wants to do that. He also wants to get the judicial nominations through, and he wants to get them through faster. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Go ahead, John (ph). Go ahead, John (ph). QUESTION: Could I just follow on that, if I could, please? You seemed to have a budding spirit of cooperation with the Senate minority leader and the House minority leader when it came to the budget, when it came to this idea of finding a fix for DACA. But every proposal that you have floated since then, they have very critically rejected. So where is this relationship? TRUMP: Well, I hope to have a relationship. If we dont, we dont. I mean, we have races coming up, in as you know, in a year from now. I think were going to probably do very well. I can say this: If we get taxes approved, were going to do unbelievably well. Many of the senators are running in states that I won by massive amounts, 20 over 20 percent, sometimes 30 percent; I guess, in one or two cases, by over 40 percent over the Democrat. QUESTION: You think you can work with them? TRUMP: Well, were going to let you know that, and I would like to give you that answer in about seven years from now. Is that OK? (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Meaning one plus seven. I hope to John (ph), I hope to be able to, because I like the concept of bipartisan. But right now, they are doing nothing but obstructing. And really, you know, if you think about it, theyre against major tax cuts thats going to make our country stronger and more competitive. Thats a hard thing to win an election on. And I believe that some Democrats will be voting for us when it comes to the tax cuts. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: What about this economic development bill that you mentioned? Can you give us (inaudible)? TRUMP: Im going to be proposing an economic development bill in the not-too-distant future. I want to get tax cuts, obviously, done first, maybe even the health care. But I think, somewhere either in between or shortly thereafter, Im going to be developing an economic development bill that will put us so far ahead of other countries, you will not even believe it. Thatll be very important. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Mr. President, sir? Sir Mr. President, sir? Thank you thank you, Mr. President. Last week, your administration made two major announcements on rolling back the Iran deal and getting rid of the cost-sharing reductions as part of Obamacare. And a lot of criticism has been leveled at your administration, saying that, really, all youre doing is TRUMP: And a lot of praise. QUESTION: fair enough, sir rolling back a lot of what youre doing is simply rolling back everything your predecessor accomplished. Is there a single policy of your predecessor that you specifically do not want to touch, sir? TRUMP: Well, were very opposite in terms of incentives and incentives for jobs and other things. And if you look at whats happened we just hit a new high today, again, in the stock market. Weve picked up Mitch, its, as of this moment, $5.2 trillion in stock market value. We have the lowest unemployment rate in, I believe, its almost 17 years. Were doing well. Were going to be doing immigration work thats going to be outstanding, and were going to have people coming into our country based, hopefully, on a merit system, not just coming in randomly. But theyre going to be coming in based on a merit system where they can help us. Because I have companies moving into this country. You saw what happened with the automobile industry last week, with five major plants. We have companies pouring back into this country for the first time in anybodys memory. We are actually going to be, fairly soon, at a point where were going to need workers. Our country is going to do so well, but the tax cuts are going to be a major, major part of it. QUESTION: Is there a single policy youd want to keep in place, though? Is there a single policy youd keep in place? TRUMP: Well, not not too many, I must say. Its the opposite side of the spectrum. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Peter go ahead, Peter. QUESTION: (inaudible) a quick question. Earlier, you said that President Obama never called the families of fallen soldiers. How can you make that claim? TRUMP: I dont know if he did. No, no, no. I was I was told that he didnt often, and a lot of presidents dont. They write letters. QUESTION: (inaudible) TRUMP: I do excuse me, Peter. I do a combination of both. Sometimes its its a very difficult thing to do, but I do a combination of both. President Obama, I think, probably did sometimes, and maybe sometimes he didnt. I dont know. Thats what I was told. All I can do all I can do is ask my generals. Other other presidents did not call, theyd write letters. And some presidents didnt do anything. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: But I like I like the combination of I like, when I can, the combination of a call and also a letter. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: One at a time. Go ahead. QUESTION: Thank you. If it would help you if it would help Special Counsel Robert Mueller get to the end of the Russia investigation TRUMP: Well, Id like to see it end. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: would you agree to (inaudible)? TRUMP: Look, the whole Russian thing was an excuse excuse me. Excuse me. The whole Russian thing was an excuse for the Democrats losing the election, and it turns out to be just one excuse. I mean, today, Hillary blamed Nigel Farage. That one came out of nowhere. So that was just an excuse for the Democrats losing an election that, frankly, they have a big advantage in the Electoral College. They should always be able to win in the Electoral College, but they were unable to do it. So there has been absolutely no collusion. Its been stated that they have no collusion. They ought to get to the end of it, because I think the American public is sick of it. Go ahead. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Mr. President, Ronica Cleary with Fox 5. TRUMP: Yes. QUESTION: Do you believe that your comments in any way affected Bowe Bergdahls ability to receive a fair trial? And can you respond to his attorneys claims that TRUMP: Well, I cant comment on Bowe Bergdahl, because hes as you know, theyre I guess hes doing something today, as we know. And hes also theyre setting up sentencing, so Im not going to comment on him. But I think people have heard my comments in the past. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Go ahead. Go ahead. QUESTION: Will you will you extend the will you extend the deadline for DACA recipients if Congress cant pass the bill by March? Leader McConnell TRUMP: Well, they should be able to do something, but we need very strong border security, and we do want the wall. Go ahead. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: This question is about the fires in California. They feel like theyve been left out (inaudible). TRUMP: No, they havent. In fact, I spoke to Governor Brown. We had a great conversation. We have FEMA there. And, as you know, James Lee Witt gave us a an A-plus, and I think, if you didnt include the fires, he would include the fires also. We have FEMA there. We have military there. We have first responders there. Its a tragic situation. But were working very closely with the representatives from California, and were doing a good job. (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Go ahead, back. Yes, go ahead, back. QUESTION: In the wake of an avalanche of allegations made against Harvey Weinstein, your campaign is being subpoenaed for any documents relating to sexual harassment allegations made against you. Do you have a response to that? TRUMP: All I can say is its totally fake news. Its just fake. Its fake. Its made-up stuff, and its disgraceful, what happens, but that happens in the that happens in the world of politics. John (ph)? QUESTION: Mr. President, on the wall, are you going to insist that we must have wall funding before you would sign something up for the DREAMers, or spending for the rest of the year? (CROSSTALK) TRUMP: Our country needs a wall. Mexico you see whats happening there. You see what just happened yesterday with one of their big political leaders. Mexico is not doing particularly well when it comes to the kind of thing that we have great interest in. Drugs are pouring across our border. Were stopping it, but we need a wall to really stop it. We need a wall in this country. You know it, I know it, everybody knows it. We have to have a wall, so thats going to be part of it. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Can you follow up on QUESTION: Puerto Rico remains without basic services TRUMP: Well, the Puerto Rico situation is so because, as you know QUESTION: Do you maintain that the federal response has been outstanding? Do you maintain that that (inaudible)? TRUMP: I think well, thats according to the Clinton administrations head of FEMA its been outstanding. Puerto Rico is very tough because of the fact its an island. But its also tough because, as you know, it was in very poor shape before the hurricanes ever hit. Their electrical grid was destroyed before the hurricanes got there. It was in very bad shape, was not working, was in bankruptcy, no owed $9 billion. And then on top of that, the hurricane came. Now youre going to have to build a whole new electrical plant system. Were not talking about generators. You know, we moved Puerto Rico now has more generators, I believe, than any any place in the world. There are generators all over the place. The fact is their electrical system was in horrible shape before, and even worse shape after. So we are working right now. As you know, relief funds were just approved, and are in the process of being approved, by Congress. And that includes Texas, by the way, that includes Florida. And it also includes Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, et cetera. But but it was in really bad shape before. We have done I will say this we have done QUESTION: (inaudible) Mr. President, people dont have drinking water. TRUMP: we have well, weve delivered tremendous amounts of water. Then what you have to do is you have to have distribution of the water the by the people on the island. So we have massive amounts of water. We have massive amounts of food. But they have to distribute the food, and they have to do this they have to distribute the food to the people of the island. So what weve done is we now actually have military distributing food, something thats really, they shouldnt have to be doing. But if you look at the governor who is a good man, by the way but you look at the governor of Puerto Rico, he himself has said weve done an outstanding job. And most people have said weve done an outstanding job. But Puerto Ricos a very tough one. Yes, go ahead. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Can you speak (ph) about your support for the 20-week abortion ban bill? How important is this bill to you? And what are you doing to work with Leader McConnell to make sure this gets through the Senate? TRUMP: Well, Ill let Mitch, you want to talk about that? MCCONNELL: Was the question about the 20-week QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) MCCONNELL: Yeah. Well, its supported by virtually all of my members, and we expect to have a vote on it at some point. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) South Korea (OFF-MIKE) demilitarized zone. There are those who believe this would be the worst time to do that, because it would be viewed as provocative. How do you view what youre trying to accomplish in South Korea? And do you intend to go to the DMZ? TRUMP: Well, Ill be going, as you know, to South Korea, to China, to Japan, to Vietnam for the summit. We have a big a big economic summit there. I may be going to the Philippines, also. Weve been invited weve been invited to the Philippines, so I may be going to the Philippines. And I look forward to all of them. We havent set the details, as of this moment. QUESTION: Are you afraid of provoking North Korea by going to the DMZ? TRUMP: Well take a look at that. I didnt hear in terms of provoking, but we will certainly (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Thank you, sir. A quick follow-up on an earlier question that Sarah (ph) you discussed the special counsel and the investigation currently. Are you considering firing Robert Mueller? TRUMP: No, not at all. QUESTION: And one quick follow-up on Iraq, sir. On Iraq, the Kurdish forces and Iraqi forces last night were clashing in northern Iraq. Are you concerned about a larger conflict in the region, while U.S. forces are still advising on the ground? TRUMP: We dont like the fact that theyre clashing. Were not taking sides, but we dont like the fact that theyre clashing. QUESTION: (inaudible) the Kurdish referendum (inaudible). TRUMP: We let me tell you, weve had, for many years, very good relationship with the Kurds, as you know. And weve also been on the side of Iraq, e President Trump indicated Monday that he may sign off on a short-term fix to the Affordable Care Act being put together by Democratic and Republican senators. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump appeared to reference a bipartisan proposal from Sens. Patty Murray and Lamar Alexander, arguing that it was being pushed along by his decision to end cost-sharing reduction payments to insurers. Were working on some kind of a short-term fix prior to the Republicans getting together, maybe with some Democrats to fix healthcare permanently, he said. Last week, Trump signed an an executive order that could give Americans access to cheaper plans that offer less coverage and announced the end of the insurer payments, which are designed to lower insurance costs for Americans buying on the Obamacare exchanges. On Monday, Trump said those actions had ensured that Obamacare was dead, which he felt would force lawmakers to negotiate. Theyre right now having emergency meetings to get a short-term fix of healthcare where premiums dont have to double and triple every year like theyve been doing under Obamacare, he said. Because Obamacare is finished. Its dead. Its gone. Its no longer you shouldnt even mention. Its gone. There is no such thing as Obamacare anymore. But the Murray-Alexander negotiations were happening before Trump decided to blow up the Affordable Care Act. In September, the Senate committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions held four hearings featuring key stakeholders including bipartisan governors, state insurance commissioners and heads of clinics, to discuss ways to stabilize the insurance marketplaces. The goal of their plan would be to make payments to insurers over a short-period of time while also giving states more flexibility to craft and approve their own insurance policies. The committees chairman and ranking member, Alexander and Murray, were working on the outlines of a deal when Republicans announced they were trying their hand at repeal again. So, when the proposal from Republican Sens. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana was presented, Alexander paused the negotiations. When that bill failed, the Alexander-Murray talks resumed. Story continues On Sunday, the Wall Street Journal reported that the plan is expected to be released within days, but a Hill aide says they do not yet have a timeline for the announcement. In a phone call on Saturday, Trump discussed the effort with Alexander. Once the deal is released, getting it through Congress likely wont be an easy task. Conservatives have long pilloried cost-sharing payments and the presidents own budget director, Mick Mulvaney, has said his boss will not support a Alexander-Murray bill unless a deal on some of his major agenda items comes with it. If the straight-up question is: Is the president interested in continuing what he sees as corporate welfare and bailouts for the insurance companies? No, Mulvaney told Politico last week. Yet, some Republicans have signaled support for the bipartisan deal. Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, who has cast pivotal votes against repeal efforts, was critical of the Presidents recent moves in an interview with ABCs This Week and said it was time for Congress to act. Congress needs to step in and I hope the president will take a look at what were doing, she said. Cassidy also said in an interview with Fox News Sunday that he wants a short-term funding solution to pass in Congress. We absolutely have to think about that family around the kitchen table, which is why I think Congress should pass them, he said. Whatever comes of the deal, it will come too late to affect the 2018 marketplaces, where insurers have already set their rates for the year. Abuja (AFP) - The leader of a pro-Biafran group that wants to break away from Nigeria failed to show up in court on Tuesday as his treason trial resumed, an AFP reporter said. Nnamdi Kanu has not been seen for several weeks and his lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, told the Federal High Court in Abuja his client was "in the custody of the (federal government)". The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) group is facing a number of charges linked to his calls for a separate state for the Igbo people who dominate the southeast. He was first arrested in October 2015, stoking long-held grievances that have festered since a previous declaration of independence in 1967 sparked a bloody, 30-month civil war. Kanu, who also runs the London-based Radio Biafra station, was released on bail in April this year on health grounds but under strict terms. The judge ordered him not to attend any rally, be in a crowd of more than 10 people or give any media interviews while on bail. He was ordered to pay sureties totalling 300 million naira ($835,000, 710,000 euros) to ensure his attendance at trial. Ejiofor told reporters at the time they were "very sure we will fulfil the conditions for bail". But since then, Kanu has rarely been out of the spotlight. He told AFP in an interview in May to mark the 50th anniversary of the declaration of independence that he was "more determined than ever" to secure a breakaway republic. He also called for "civil disobedience" until a referendum was granted on self-determination. Kanu's whereabouts have been the source of increasing speculation in recent weeks, after a military surge in his home city of Umuahia and the surrounding area. The IPOB leader's younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, said the army attacked the family's compound last month, killing 28. The army has denied the claim and also that they were holding Kanu, as their tactics come in for criticism for fueling tensions in the restive region. "If anything happens to him (Kanu), the reactions are likely to be very violent in the southeast," said security consultant Don Okereke. TWIN FALLS Magic Valley Rehabilitation Services Inc. presented several awards during its 44th annual meeting Sept. 27. The awards recognized individuals and businesses whose efforts to support the training and employment of people with disabilities were exemplary during the past fiscal year. These included: Travelers Oasis of Eden Employer of the Year Roger White F. Dwain Pruitt Memorial Award for program participant Peggy Doshier and Leah Hartmann, Idaho Department of Vocational Rehabilitation Advocates of the Year Glanbia Contract Business of the Year MVRS Executive Director John Bodden Clarke I. Maddox Memorial Award as Employee of the Year Bodden, who is retiring from the agency in December after 27 years, thanked the board, staff, participants and community members for their many contributions over the years. Its been a privilege and an honor to have worked here, he said in a statement. Ive made many friends over the years. I have no regrets. Id do it all over again. Additionally, 18 members of the MVRS facility-based work crew were recognized as recipients of the annual safety award: Leonard Aranda, Diane Callen, Ron Donaldson, Miguel Galindo, Ross Hancock, Dan Holland, Devar Hulse, Jimmy Hunt, Rick Nelson, Billy Paredes, Charles Powell, Aaron Rimer, Sarah Scarrow, Fantasia Sedano, Skyler Thomas, Jared Ursenbach, Alfonso Villasenor and Roger White. The crew supervisor is Dean Smith. This crew worked more than 4,700 hours without an accident during the year. Annual safety awards are given in memory of Steven R. Slatter who was the janitorial crew supervisor at MVRS for 29 years. Steven Slifer, therapy technician, was also recognized for 15 years of employment at MVRS. During the meeting, the members of the 2017-2018 board of directors were also elected: Laura Stewart, president, Twin Falls; Rob Atkins, vice president, Twin Falls; Lisa Hollibaugh, secretary, Kimberly; Leon Mills, treasurer, Twin Falls; Carol Hoffman, Twin Falls; Rhonda Bartholomew, Jerome; and Ida Clark, Jerome. Magic Valley Rehabilitation Services is a private nonprofit that provides training, employment, personal development and related services for people with disabilities in south central Idaho. In reviewing the agencys 2017 activities and accomplishments, Bodden noted that it has served 147 persons with disabilities during the fiscal year and more than 7,800 individuals in its 44-year history. He also reported that one of the highlights of the year was that MVRS was able to place 78 percent of referred individuals into competitive employment, with an average starting wage of $9.77 per hour. Kiev (AFP) - Former Georgian leader Mikheil Saakashvili told a mass rally in Kiev on Tuesday that President Petro Poroshenko needed to quit as activists set out demands for the government to tackle entrenched state graft. Saakashvili's warning at a demonstration outside parliament in the capital was the culmination of a month of anti-government protests the one-time Poroshenko ally has led across Ukraine since returning to the country last month. "There can be no fight against corruption while Poroshenko is in power," Saakashvili said. "It is time for them to hear us," the 49-year-old said to chants of "Shame!" and "Out with the gang!" The national police department said an anti-riot officer and three demonstrators were hurt in scuffles that involved nearly 5,000 people in the heart of Kiev. Poroshenko was a Western favourite who rose to power when a bloody 2014 revolution toppled a Kremlin-backed regime and pulled Ukraine out of Russia's historic orbit. But Poroshenko's critics fear that he has put the breaks on institutional changes and the difficult task of eliminating state graft in order to preserve the existing political order. The complex relationship between Saakashvili and Poroshenko has had twists and turns that exemplify the difficulties facing crisis-torn Ukraine. Saakashvili was a fierce Poroshenko supporter who became a regional Ukrainian governor after serving two terms as Georgia's president before fleeing that country under pressure from the new regime. Yet Saakashvili became more disgruntled with time and eventually accused Poroshenko himself of being the corruption kingpin. The charge saw Saakashvili lose his Ukrainian citizenship while he was paying a visit to the United States in July. Saakashvili made a dramatic return to Ukraine with the help of hundreds of supporters in September and the protest in Kiev on Tuesday marked his sternest face-off with Poroshenko to date. Story continues Poroshenko did not address the corruption allegations on Tuesday and just told reporters: "I view the protests with understanding and respect its participants". - Three demands - The protesters issued three major demands for the country's president. The most crucial involved stripping lawmakers of immunity from prosecution and launching an anti-corruption court that Kiev's lenders at the IMF have labelled a "benchmark" of Ukraine's progress toward Western standards. A third demand called for changes to the election system that would help independent lawmakers gain seats. Tuesday's rally was called by several political parties besides Saakashvili's which have also opposed Poroshenko's rule. These included one led by former premier Yulia Tymoshenko and the Samopomich (Self-Reliance) movement that was first elected to parliament in 2015. The three are currently united by a deep-seated antipathy toward Poroshenko. Yet it is unclear how long their union will last since each appears to have its own political ambitions. - Mounting pressure - Poroshenko appeared to respond to the mounting political pressure by introducing a bill on Tuesday that would eliminate lawmakers' immunity starting in 2020. But protest organisers dismissed this as a token measure that needlessly delayed the long-promised change. "In order to start political reforms, we have to have a regime change," university lecturer Taras Tretyak told AFP as protesters sang and chanted around him. "Unfortunately, Ukraine is in such a state that the issue of conducting reforms is one of the country's very survival," the 37-year-old said. Lawmakers can currently be charged with a crime only if a majority in parliament votes to remove their legal protection. The Kardashian family is a stylish bunch and 22-month-old Saint is already getting in on the action as made clear by the tots latest hairstyle. Kim Kardashian West shared a sweet black-and-white photo with her son on Instagram Saturday, showing a glimpse of their Mommy & Son day ahead of the arrival of baby No. 3. The image shows a blonde Kardashian West squatting and holding hands with Saint, who dons tiny cornrows for the outing a change from his usually curly locks. Want all the latest pregnancy and birth announcements, plus celebrity mom blogs? Click here to get those and more in the PEOPLE Babies newsletter. Total eclipse of the heart A post shared by Kim Kardashian West (@kimkardashian) on Aug 21, 2017 at 9:17am PDT Kardashian West, 36, took over Kelly Ripas hosting duties during an August episode of Live with Kelly & Ryan, where sheopened up about a mini beef between Saint and big sister North, 4. I dont know if its because shes the older sister. I dont know what it is. I thought it was a phase. She does not like her brother and its so hard for me, said the reality TV star. She would get so jealous when I would breastfeed, added Kardashian West. And now, the phase isnt going away. Continued Kardashian West, She needs to still get it together and warm up and be a little bit nicer, but I think shes getting there. I saw glimmers of hope a week ago. Shes not harmful, shes not hurting him or anything. She just doesnt want boys in her room. Kardashian West will welcome her third child, a daughter, with husband Kanye West via surrogate next year. North and Saint are also getting two new cousins in 2018; multiple sources have confirmed to PEOPLE that Khloe Kardashian and Kylie Jenner are both pregnant with their first children. Kardashian, 33, will welcome a baby with Cleveland Cavaliers player Tristan Thompson, while Jenner, 20, is expecting a daughter with Travis Scott. Meatballs are probably one of the world's more versatile dishes. Put them on a sandwich and you have the perfect lunch. Toss them in a soup and you have the perfect fall bowl. Add them to a pizza and, voila, you have a dish kids will be wanting for years to come. This Korean meatball dish proves just how versatile meatballs are. Created by Chef David Lee and Chef Diane Henderiks from the Korean Food Foundation, the two transformed an Italian-style favorite into a Korean-inspired dish to appeal to the American palate. Flavored with Gochu-jang -- a traditional fermented ingredient made with red pepper powder and soybean -- the saucy chicken meatballs were easily one of our favorites from the New York City Wine & Food Festival. And luckily, the Foundation let us in on the spectacular recipe so we can (try to) make it at home. Topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, it's a dish we cannot wait to replicate. See the full recipe below! Happy eating. INGREDIENTS 1 lump of chicken breast and chicken thigh 2 tbsp gochu-jang 2 tbsp minced garlic 3 tbsp hempseed 2 tsp ganjang 2 tsp sugar 1/2 bundle leek 1/4 cup minced onion basil 1/4 cup pine nuts 1/2 cup wheat flour 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 egg 1 cup gochu-jang 1/4 cup water 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 tomato parmesan cheese to garnish DIRECTIONS 1. Mince chicken breast and chicken thigh together and then freeze them. 2. Thaw minced chicken, and then mix with gochu-jang, garlic, hempseed, soy sauce, and sugar. 3. Knead with wheat flour, egg, and mayonnaise in a separate bowl. 4. Add chicken mix and wheat flour mix together. 5. Make appropriate-sized meatballs. 6. Preheat the gas stove, add vegetable oil and then bake meatballs. 7. For the sauce, mix gochu-jang, water, sugar, and tomato, and then boil it. 8. Sprinkle gochu-jang sauce and Parmigiano- Reggiano on top of meatballs, serve. 9. Enjoy! For more cooking inspiration from Diane, watch the video above! Related: Anthony Scaramuccis new media organization is sparking outrage for asking readers how many Jews they thought had been murdered during the Holocaust. Twitter users accused The Scaramucci Post, which President Donald Trumps former communications director launched in September, of pandering to Holocaust deniers by asking its 24,000-plus Twitter followers this question on Tuesday morning: (Photo: Twitter) Around 6 millions Jews were systematically murdered during the genocide instigated under Adolf Hitlers Nazi Germany before and during World War II. But The Scaramucci Post question appears to suggest with its multiple-choice options that the total number of Jews killed may have been fewer than 1 million. Heres how the first 4,577 respondents voted: (Photo: Twitter) The poll question was taken down after around 90 minutes. The Scaramucci Posts Twitter account, according to its bio page, is run by hedge fund manager Lance Laifer. A subsequent tweet on Tuesday said that Laifer was behind the Holocaust question, and that Scaramucci was not aware of it. This poll was put up by @lancelaifer without consulting @Scaramucci who is traveling in London. The poll has been taken down. pic.twitter.com/SKaaPZAPow ScaramucciPost (@ScaramucciPost) October 17, 2017 That failed to dampen the outrage expressed by tweeters: Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. Everyone who did the "ha ha it's all a big joke" welcome back Scaramucci into fancy elite society has to answer for this. https://t.co/6aCOfie1Ll Michael Caley (@MC_of_A) October 17, 2017 Reported and blocked Scaramucci Post. Tony Renner (@TonyRenner) October 17, 2017 Nice to know that the Scaramucci acorn hasn't fallen far from the Trump Tree. https://t.co/W7QFPcVw5A LL (@laura_lrnzo) October 17, 2017 Insane. Anthony @Scaramucci's "cute" little social media project appears to have gone full David Irving. https://t.co/icQhCW0ZBA (((Morgan Finnsio))) (@Morgan_Finnsio) October 17, 2017 I was under the impression Scaramucci creating his own media outlet was going to be an amusingly dumb thing, so this is an abrupt dark turn. New Free Soil Party (@FreeSoilAndrew) October 17, 2017 What in the actual fuck @Scaramucci? Likable goof to Holocaust denier? Jeremy Newberger (@jeremynewberger) October 17, 2017 Anytime you worry that you really fucked up your life, remember you aren't Anthony Scaramucci, who somehow keeps managing to find new ways. Diana Joy (@DianaJoy23) October 17, 2017 The Shoah is not for Twitter polls, @Scaramucci and @ScaramucciPost, do not make light of that evil and loss. DO BETTER. Just ZK 4 Now (@ZombieCheney) October 17, 2017 Scaramucci tweeted late Tuesday afternoon that he would make a $25,000 donation to the Simon Wiesenthal Center, which is named after a Nazi hunter. He said he was out of the country when the poll went live on Twitter. Story continues I was not aware of [Laifers] actions and as soon as I found out, I had it removed immediately, he said in a statement posted to Twitter. I am pained imagining that my post led anyone to believe I am giving comfort to Holocaust deniers. Nothing can be further from the truth. I have publicly criticized the white supremacy movement and understand that the Holocaust was one of the most abhorrent moments in world history. I dont fire people for making mistakes, Scaramucci said in a later tweet. Besides, [Laifer] is my partner. I fire people for not trying. This article has been updated with Scaramuccis response to the poll. Related Coverage The Rise And Fall Of Anthony Scaramucci Monica Lewinsky's Tweet About Anthony Scaramucci Says It All Anthony Scaramucci Makes 'Scream' Even Scarier Also on HuffPost This article originally appeared on HuffPost. By Gary McWilliams HOUSTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended the search for a worker missing from an oil production platform in Louisiana's Lake Pontchartrain that exploded and caught fire late on Sunday. Missing is Timothy Morrison, 44, of Katy, Texas, the Coast Guard said in a statement. Seven other workers were sent to hospital with injuries in the incident. "The decision to suspend a search is never an easy one," Commander Zac Ford said in the statement. "We send our thoughts and prayers to the Morrison family and all those affected." Coast Guard rescue crews battled 4 foot to 5 foot (1.2 meter to 1.5 meter) waves during the search, and a helicopter joined them at daybreak after overnight efforts failed to locate Morrison, officials said at a briefing on Monday. Three workers remain in hospital for blast and burn treatment, some in critical condition, said Mike Guillot, emergency medical services director at East Jefferson General Hospital, in a news briefing on Monday. Four others were released overnight. Firefighters managed to turn off a valve that was feeding natural gas to the blaze on the platform, Dave Tibbetts, chief of the East Bank Consolidated Fire Department, said at the same Monday briefing. He said the fire would eventually burn itself out as the gas stopped flowing. "We feel confident from the firefighters' aspect that we have control of the situation," Tibbetts said. The platform is operated by Clovelly Oil Co, said Donald Mackenroth, a Clovelly vice president reached by phone. Details of what happened on the platform are still to be determined, he said on Monday. There were at least eight people on the platform and a nearby supply vessel at the time of the explosion and fire, officials said. An investigation into the incident is starting, they said. There was no sign of an oil sheen or other environmental damage on Monday, but officials said they were still evaluating the site. The platform is used to transfer and store oil and natural gas from nearby wells, the officials said. Story continues Police were notified of a loud explosion about 7:18 p.m. on Sunday (0018 GMT on Monday) by residents, and soon after received a call from the platform that a boat carrying injured was on its way to shore, said Lieutenant Brian McGregor of the Kenner, Louisiana, police force. East Jefferson General Hospital, which received some of the injured, declined to comment on the number of treated or on the type or extent of their injuries. Clovelly is the only oil company operating in Lake Pontchartrain, according to its former president, Harald Werner. It has two or three active oil and gas wells at the lake, he said. (Reporting by Apeksha Nair in Bengaluru, India, Peter Szekely in New York, Gary McWilliams in Houston and Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee; Editing by Jacqueline Wong, Susan Thomas and Tom Hogue) A Democratic senator says Ivanka Trump should not be involved in an international program she helped launch that benefits women entrepreneurs with the World Bank. The World Bank's Women's Finance Initiative (WeFi) was announced early last week, and the first daughter said she would be serving as a mentor in the program shortly afterwards. The president has said the U.S. will contribute $50 million toward the fund, which was has already raised about $350 million. The first daughter has championed the initiative as an opportunity to support female entrepreneurs around the globe. "Wherever you go, you hear the same thing from female entrepreneurs. You have a unique challenge accessing capital," she said when announcing her support. But at least one Democrat says her relationship could constitute a conflict of interest. "Ms. Trump has not fully divested from her wide-ranging financial interests, which include a globally-recognized women's apparel and accessories brandone that stands to benefit from Ms. Trump's association with a prominent international women's issue," Democratic Senator Ben Cardin wrote in a letter to the Treasury Secretary, Steve Mnunchin, dated Monday, October 16. "As a White House employee, she is barred from using her public office for private gain. Therefore, I believe it would not be appropriate for her to serve as a public advocate for the fund," Cardin continued. "As long as she continues to benefit financially from a brand that bears her name, her involvement with WeFi creates the potential for conflicts of interest that could stand in the way of achieving the fund's goals." Ivanka is a senior adviser to the Trump administration and doesn't take a pay check. While Ivanka did hand over day-to-day operations of her brand when she took on the role, she still owns it. Top models, from left, Carla Bruni, Claudia Schiffer, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Helena Christensen for fashion house Versace in Milan, on Sept. 22. (Photo: Miguel Medina/AFP/Getty Images) This year marks the 20th anniversary of Gianni Versaces untimely death. Today the Italian fashion house is run by Giannis sister, Donatella Versace but Giannis influence is still palpable. Earlier this fall, during Milan Fashion Week, Donatella staged her biggest tribute to her brother yet, by calling upon Giannis five favorite supermodels, which included Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford, to be part of her blockbuster fashion show finale. The collection itself featured many of Giannis iconic Versace creations from Warholian print dresses to silky baroque blouses and bondage LBDs. Now you can shop more than 500 of Giannis greatest hits from throughout his illustrious career. E-tailer Farfetch has partnered with celebrity go-to vintage collector William Banks-Blaney founder of William Vintage who has brought decades of vintage Versace items for sale to the public. Gianni was always about pure, unadulterated joy, and there was so much romance and happiness within his work. We had wanted to celebrate Gianni in 2017 and mark the 20th anniversary with 20 years of his work and had been working upon the collection for some time. We decided to unite Farfetch and William Vintage on the project, as I had always admired their vision and approach, Banks-Blaney tells Yahoo Lifestyle. Banks-Blaney has helped dress some of the worlds most stylish women, from Rihanna to Amal Clooney to Victoria Beckham, dressing them in his tightly edited, well-curated selection of the worlds most beautiful haute couture vintage pieces. So how did Banks-Blaney earn his title as the King of Vintage? The founder of William Vintage,William Banks-Blaney. (Photo: Getty Images) I had always loved vintage clothing and felt there was a gap in the market for an edited, relevant selection of vintage for the women I knew. What started as a pop-up for friends became William Vintage. The collection has been built up over the years from stylists, models, devoted wearers of Versace, and private collectors. Its been a long time in forming it, as we adhere to our strict approach of relevance and superb condition to every piece. Indeed the William Vintage and Farfetch partnership took 18 months to put together. Story continues Items in the exclusive collection vary far and wide, from colorful hosiery, which starts at $140, to edgy brooches and belts. Then there is a diverse selection of pop-statement coats, baroque blouse and bondage skirt sets, and classic Versace yellow-and-black cropped jackets. There is also plenty of leopard to go around. The priciest item available at the moment is an orange-sherbet-color bondage dress that retails for $67,666. A similar black bondage dress priced at $52,965 quickly sold out when the collection debuted. In reference to the latter: It was an extremely rare example in superb condition and from a truly iconic collection representative of the designer, the decade, the collection, and relevant today, so it was a coveted thing, says Banks-Blaney. Having more than 500 items to choose from, the William Vintage founder shares three of of his favorite picks: Baroque cocktail dress, spring 1991. (Photo: Courtesy of Farfetch) An homage to Italy and to Roman art, this dress was a campaign piece and an iconic Gianni Versace design. Warhol Marilyn suit ensemble, spring 1991. (Photo: Courtesy of Farfetch) One collection fused art, fashion, and film and the legends of Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, Andy Warhol, and Gianni Versace. Quilted leather coat with fox-fur trim, autumn-winter 1992. (Photo: Courtesy of Farfetch) We had to ask Banks-Blaney, a skilled vintage collector, a few words of advice. First, which designers should customers invest in now that might have the same staying power as Versace? I always suggest to our clients to buy what you love and make that your focus, but personally I love Simone Rocha, Mary Katrantzou, and Bora Aksu, says Banks-Blaney. And whats the one piece of style advice does he lives by? Be yourself, wear what makes you happy, and be a leader, not a follower. Shop the William Vintage x Farfetch exclusive Vintage Gianni Versace collection now online at farfetch.com and williamvintage.com. If you happen to be in London, stop by the William Vintage flagship store in Marylebone. Read More from Yahoo Lifestyle: The complete Fashion Week trend guide for Spring 2018 Why is Jennifer Lawrence wearing a wedding dress? Size 14 model called an icon for a new generation of girls after walking in India Fashion Week Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. By Abdi Sheikh MOGADISHU (Reuters) - Medics who rushed to help victims of a huge bomb explosion in the Somali capital Mogadishu that killed more than 300 people say the country's threadbare emergency services have been pushed beyond their limit. From a lack of ambulance drivers to break-downs of the ambulances themselves, to checkpoints blocking routes to hospitals to a shortage of blood, the chaotic response to the deadliest truck bombing in Somalia's history cost additional lives, they said. Officials say that Saturday's bombing, which also wounded at least 400 people, bore the hallmarks of the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab, but the group has not claimed responsibility. More than three days after the bombing at a busy intersection in the capital, hundreds of people were still searching for relatives in hospitals and trying to access the blast site, Reuters witnesses said. Dr Abdikadir Abdirahman, director of Aamin Ambulances, a privately-funded ambulance service responding to the attack, described the limitations of his country's emergency system. "We have old ambulances and after working 24 hours for days, three broke down. The telephones got jammed and we had no walkie talkies." He said road blocks manned by the security forces delayed ambulances, and there were not enough medics to respond to the devastating attack. MIRED IN CONFLICT Somalia has been mired in conflict since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew a dictator and then turned on each other. One of the poorest countries in Africa, it faces severe food insecurity and relies on foreign donors to support its institutions and basic services. One ambulance driver said security forces badly hampered efforts at the blast site and even fired at vehicles. Ambulance driver Mohamed Saiid told Reuters: "I could see people screaming in a burning public vehicle and police opened fire refusing [help] that could save them." "When you want to save a screaming casualty but a soldier denies you access at gun point ... it is a tough work," he said. Such delays caused "many injured people to die from blood loss," he said. Another ambulance driver said police stopped him entering the blast scene. "I was stopped by forces at gunpoint as I was just some meters away from the blast scene," said Mohamed Howle, a driver from a hospital in the city. A spokesman for Mogadishu's mayor said safety was the top priority in the response and there was no delay in rescuing injured people. Spokesman Abdifatah Omar Halane said some injured people may have died while being carried from the scene: "No one can save the lives of someone whose brain mucus was oozing." Police officer Mohamed Hussein told Reuters he was at the blast site several times daily since the bombing and ambulances were not fired upon. FIRING IN THE AIR Soldiers often fire in the air in the city to clear traffic jams, he said, suggesting that guns may have been discharged by security forces to establish order. Information Minister Abdirahman Omar Osman earlier said Somalia does not have a blood bank. But doctors said the public had responded quickly to calls for blood donations. Countries including Turkey, Qatar and Kenya were providing medical assistance and evacuating wounded. "We are requesting blood. We are requesting assistance for verifying the dead in order for their relatives to know," the minister said. Osman said the bodies of more than 100 people buried on Monday "were blown beyond recognition". He hoped other bodies could still be identified. Mohamed Nur, head of the emergency unit at Medina hospital in Mogadishu said on Tuesday that doctors and nurses were working around the clock and the number of casualties had overwhelmed the hospital. Turkish doctors, mainly surgeons and specialists in spine injuries, arrived along with Turkey's health minister on Monday and were still treating injured in local hospitals, the minister said. Turkey evacuated 35 critically wounded Somalis to Ankara by plane on Monday, Turkish deputy prime minister Recep Akdag told reporters on returning from Somalia. An increasingly close ally of Somalia, Turkey opened a $50 million military base in the capital last month. Medicine from neighboring nations Djibouti and Kenya arrived by plane on Tuesday, the minister said. Qatar sent a plane with medical equipment and planned to evacuate injured people for treatment outside Somalia, Qatar's state news agency reported. (Reporting by Abdi Sheikh,; Additional reporting by Maggie Fick in Nairobi, Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara and Eric Knecht in Doha; Writing by Maggie Fick; Editing by Richard Balmforth) Valletta (AFP) - The son of murdered Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Joseph Muscat of being complicit in his mother's death as the shockwaves from a grisly car bomb killing reverberated across Europe. Matthew Caruana Galizia, also an investigative journalist, described the pain of finding his mother's body blown to pieces and said he believed she had been assassinated for her whistleblowing activity. In an emotional post on his Facebook page, the son accused Muscat of filling his office with crooks and creating a culture of impunity that had turned Malta into a "mafia island". The centre-left premier denies any wrongdoing. But the case looks set to increase scrutiny of Malta by its partners in the European Union. Some members of the bloc have already expressed concern over the island's light-touch regulation of financial services and company registrations, and a controversial scheme that offers an EU passport to wealthy investors. The European Commission said it was horrified by what it termed a likely "targeted attack". "This is a horrible event, a major thing that needs to be investigated, and clarified," commission spokesman Margaritis Schinas said. Press freedom group Reporters without Borders described the murder as being like something out of Vladimir Putin's Russia and a rare incident of its kind for an EU state. Caruana Galizia, a veteran journalist who had been called a "one-woman Wikileaks", had lately used her widely read blog to make a series of detailed allegations of corruption in Muscat's inner circle, some based on the Panama Papers data leak. Her killing has triggered grief and anger on the island of 430,000 people, with thousands attending an overnight vigil that was followed Tuesday with a "Justice for Daphne" demonstration outside the main law courts in the fortress capital Valletta. "The state did not defend Daphne," said Andrew Borg Cardona, a prominent lawyer who works with the journalist's husband. Story continues Michael Briguglio, a former leader of the island's Greens party, said: "This is a political murder because it clearly has a political context and the state did not protect a journalist who was in danger." - 'Office filled with crooks' - "I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it," Matthew Caruana wrote on Facebook. "They stared at me. 'I'm sorry, there is nothing we can do", one of them said. "I looked down and there were my mother's body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless." Muscat has described the killing as "barbaric" and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice with the help of FBI investigators. That pledge from the Labour Party prime minister was dismissed by the victim's son. "It is of little comfort for the prime minister of this country to say that he will 'not rest' until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a government that encouraged that same impunity," he wrote. "First he filled his office with crooks, then he filled the police with crooks and imbeciles, then he filled the courts with crooks and incompetents." - Aides' secret accounts - The judge in charge of investigating the murder stepped aside from the case Tuesday following objections from the Caruana Galizia family. Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera had been accused of misconduct by the blogger and had threatened her with libel proceedings. Caruana Galizia's death came four months after Muscat won a landslide victory in elections that were called early after she accused his wife of taking kickbacks from Azerbaijan's ruling family and hiding the cash in a secret Panama bank account. The claims, which Muscat denies, were the latest in a string of scandals based on information leaked from the records of the Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. The so-called Panama Papers revealed how wealthy individuals around the world, including several lawmakers, used shell companies in tax havens to hide cash. Keith Schembri, Muscat's chief of staff, and Konrad Mizzi, a government minister, were both forced to admit having undeclared accounts. But the premier resisted pressure to dismiss them, insisting they had done nothing illegal. Porthleven, Cornwall, southwestern Britain Large waves crash along sea defenses and the harbor as storm Ophelia approaches Porthleven in Cornwall, south west Britain, Oct. 16, 2017. (Photo: Toby Melville/Reuters) Storm Ophelia is battering Scotland and northern England after leaving several people dead and hundreds of thousands without power in Ireland. The former Atlantic hurricane downed trees and power lines, sent waves surging over coastal defenses and disrupted transport again Tuesday, a day after making landfall on Irelands south coast with gusts of almost 100 miles an hour (160 kilometers an hour). Britains Met Office weather service said Scotland could see heavy rain and gusts of up to 70 mph (113 kph), with winds gradually diminishing through Tuesday. Parts of southern Norway reported a smoky smell on Tuesday morning, which the local meteorological institute said it was likely carried there by Ophelia from the wave of forest fires in Portugal and Spain that killed at least 41 people over the weekend. In Sweden, people in the capital of Stockholm and elsewhere launched a flurry of calls to authorities, saying the skies were much darker than usual Tuesday morning. That was also probably due to Ophelias strong winds, which carried a mix of red sand from the Sahara and tiny particles from the Iberian forest fires across western Europe. (AP) See more news-related photo galleries and follow us on Yahoo News Photo Twitter and Tumblr. Khost (Afghanistan) (AFP) - Suicide bombers and gunmen launched an attack on a police training centre in southeastern Afghanistan on Tuesday in the latest violence to rock the war-torn country. The Taliban claimed responsibility in a tweet for the continuing attack in the centre in Gardez, capital of Paktia province which borders Pakistan. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault," the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. There was no immediate information about casualties. A local official said two car bombs blew up near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing," Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. That includes recently released Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. Late Monday a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least five Haqqani militants, officials have said. The latest attacks comes as four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China reportedly are being held in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. Gardez (Afghanistan) (AFP) - Two separate suicide and gun attacks on police and soldiers in Afghanistan left at least 71 dead and nearly 170 wounded Tuesday in the latest devastating assaults on beleaguered security forces. The Taliban claimed the more deadly of the two assaults, a coordinated attack on police in the southeast city of Gardez in Paktia province. That assault killed 41 people and injured 158, according to the interior ministry, and left hospital officials calling for blood donations. There were desperate scenes as relatives queued for news of loved ones after the hours-long battle. A separate ambush blamed on the Taliban in the neighbouring province of Ghazni killed 25 security officials and five civilians with 10 wounded, the interior ministry said. Afghanistan's army and police, on the front line against the Taliban since foreign combat forces pulled back in December 2014, have suffered shocking casualties over the past year. Their ranks are beset by corruption and desertion. "The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood," said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, who put the number of wounded there at more than 200. Doctors and nurses rushed to attend to the wounded women, children and police filling the corridors where some bodies also lay. Outside, university students formed a queue to donate blood, an AFP photographer said. The attack, claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, began when two suicide bombers driving an explosives-laden truck and a Humvee blew them up near the training centre, which is close to the Paktia police headquarters. The blasts flattened a building and enabled gunmen to force their way inside the compound, according to officials and the interior ministry. "Most of the victims are civilians who had come to the police headquarters to get their passports and national IDs," a statement from the Paktia governor's office said. A university student who was in class at the time said he heard "a big boom" which shook the building and shattered windows. Story continues "As we were trying to find our way (out of the building) I heard a second blast and then the dust and dirt covered us in the class. Several of my classmates were wounded by broken glass," Noor Ahmad told AFP. The battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces lasted around five hours before it ended with all five militants killed, officials said. Photos posted on Twitter showed two large plumes of smoke rising above the city. The second attack, in Ghazni some 100 kilometres (62 miles) west of Gardez, followed a similar pattern involving insurgents detonating an explosives-laden Humvee near a police headquarters then storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governor's spokesman, told AFP. "Dozens of Taliban" were killed in the attack, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman said. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attacks and praised the "bravery and sacrifice" of security forces. - Drone strike - The attacks are the latest in a series of assaults on security installations, including one on a military hospital in Kabul in March which may have killed up to 100 people, and a devastating attack on a base in Mazar-i-Sharif which left 144 people dead. They came one day after four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. Paktia province borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. Tuesday's attack in Gardez began hours after a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. A senior commander in the Afghan Taliban told AFP on condition of anonymity the attack was in retaliation for the US aerial assault, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. On Monday the US also carried out strikes in the Jaji Maidan district of Paktia "under counter-terror authorities", said US Forces spokesman Navy Captain Tom Gresback. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. The extremist group is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. str-emh-sjd-amj/st/ds/sm Renata Singleton is a plaintiff in a lawsuit against the district attorney in New Orleans. (Photo: ACLU) WASHINGTON Renata Singleton is a black woman who spent five days in a New Orleans jail because she couldnt afford her bail. Away from her three children, she lost eight pounds before her mother was finally able to purchase her release. When Singleton got home, she had an 8 p.m. curfew and started wearing bell-bottom jeans to hide the electronic monitor on her ankle from her kids. Despite having a masters degree in business administration, shes worried shell have trouble finding a new job: Her mug shot and a record of her arrest are still floating around online. None of those facts make Singletons story extraordinarily noteworthy: Legally innocent defendants unable purchase their freedom ahead of trial are regularly locked up. Heres what does: Singleton wasnt accused of a crime. She was the victim of one. About three years ago, in November 2014, Singleton got into an argument with her boyfriend. He shattered her phone. Her daughter called the police. The boyfriend was arrested. Singletons ex-boyfriend was able to pay a $3,500 secured bond at his arraignment the next day, and he was released. He later pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors and was sentenced to probation without jail time. Singleton, the victim in the case, didnt have such an easy go of it. When a victim-witness advocate for the Orleans Parish District Attorneys Office reached out to her, Singleton said she wasnt interested in pursuing charges. She had a job that paid by the hour, and she didnt want to miss out on work or time with her kids. Shed broken up with the man. She was ready to move on. Prosecutors didnt let her let it go. According to a lawsuit filed Tuesday against Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro and others in his office, investigators drafted up subpoenas requiring Singleton to appear for a meeting at the district attorneys office in April 2015, when the case against her ex-boyfriend was still pending. Those documents were not actually subpoenas but the district attorneys office misleadingly labeled them as such to compel Singleton to show up to a meeting. Singleton didnt know that at the time, but she didnt go to the meeting because a friend in law enforcement told her that she hadnt been validly served. Story continues The day Singleton missed the meeting, an assistant district attorney applied for a material witness warrant, asking the court to jail Singleton. Believing the fake subpoenas were actual subpoenas, a judge issued the arrest warrant. Singleton eventually met with prosecutors, but told them she wouldnt talk to them without a lawyer present. Rather than granting her access to a lawyer, prosecutors had Singleton led out of their office in handcuffs, and she was arrested on the warrant. It was the first time Singleton had ever been arrested. She was taken to jail and forced into an orange jumpsuit. Her bail was $100,000 more than 28 times the bail amount set for her alleged abuser. She spent five days in jail before she went before a judge, who reduced her bail to an amount her mother could afford. Singleton is now the main named plaintiff in a lawsuit against Cannizzaro and his office that alleges that his prosecutors routinely issue their own fabricated subpoenas directly from the District Attorneys Office without any judicial approval or oversight in order to coerce victims and witnesses into submitting to interrogations by prosecutors outside of court. The suit, filed by Civil Rights Corps, the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU of Louisiana, opens a new front in the legal battle to change the criminal justice system by challenging the actions of prosecutors through civil rights litigation. Prosecutors are one of the biggest forces behind our societys addiction to senseless mass human caging, says Alec Karakatsanis, the Civil Rights Corps founder. And for years, they have operated with virtually no transparency or accountability. Our hope is that cases like this one help tell people the story about what prosecutors have been doing in our legal system, away from view, and about why they have been doing it. Anna Arceneaux, an ACLU senior staff attorney on the case, said she hoped this lawsuit and others like it would help change the landscape in holding prosecutors accountable, because so much of our crisis of over-incarceration in this country turns on the decision-making of prosecutors who are so used to not being held accountable and having very little oversight of their decisions. Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro, pictured here on April 6, 2015, now faces a lawsuit from the ACLU and Civil Rights Corps. (Photo: Ted Jackson/NOLAcom) Prosecutors are notoriously protected from being held accountable for misconduct. The high bar for suing prosecutors for the actions they take in the course of their jobs amounts to near immunity. But there is one rarely used provision of the law: challenging patterns and practices of unconstitutional conduct. Thats whats happening in the New Orleans case the plaintiffs are alleging that issuing fake subpoenas was the offices adopted formal policy, not just the action of one rogue prosecutor. Cannizzaro had challenged members of the New Orleans City Council last month to show him one person who was ever arrested on one of the D.A. notices. It evidently wasnt too hard: Civil rights investigators have already found at least 10 cases in the past three years in which prosecutors applied for arrest warrants by relying on the assertion that a witness didnt obey one of the offices fraudulent subpoenas. The lawsuit alleges that the Orleans Parish District Attorneys Office engages in an unconstitutional policy of using extrajudicial and unlawful means to coerce, arrest, and imprison crime victims and witnesses. The lawsuit said that victims and witnesses routinely wait weeks or even months in jail before they appear before a judge. According to the suit, a rape victim spent 12 days in jail before making a first court appearance, while a child sex trafficking victim spent 89 days behind bars before she was able to challenge her detention in court. Defendants policies are designed to create a culture of fear and intimidation that chills crime victims and witnesses from asserting their constitutional rights, the lawsuit says. As a result of these policies, crime victims and witnesses in Orleans Parish know that if they exercise their right not to speak with an investigating prosecutor, they will face harassment, threats, arrest, and jail. Prosecutors can typically request subpoenas through a formal process that requires witnesses or victims to appear at a court hearing or before a grand jury. Theyre not allowed to use a subpoena to demand that a witness show up to a private meeting. So prosecutors in New Orleans forged and doctored the documents, according to the lawsuit. In one case, prosecutors gave a doctored subpoena to a 60-year-old homeless battery victim. The man was required to appear in court on March 6, 2017, but prosecutors altered the document to say hed instead have to show up to the district attorneys office on March 3. The forgery was apparent because the individual who altered it failed to change the appearance date in some cases, and forgot to remove some references to the court, the lawsuit said. The Lens, a New Orleans news organization, first reported on the fake subpoenas in April. Shortly afterward, Cannizzaro announced he would bring an end to what he admitted was an improper office policy. It was improper for us, it was incorrect for us to label those notices as a subpoena, Cannizzzaro told a local news station. That was incorrect. It was improper and I take responsibility for that. Instead, the office has begun sending out notices that do not include the word subpoena. Still, the lawsuit alleges, the documents create the false impression that the witness is required by law to meet privately with prosecutors. The lawsuit also alleges that Cannizzaro threatened Tamara Jackson, the executive director of the New Orleans victim rights organization Silence Is Violence, another plaintiff in the suit. According to the suit, after Jackson filed a complaint to the National District Attorneys Association about what she saw as the local district attorney offices inadequate protections for crime victims, Cannizzaro called Ms. Jackson and told her to be careful: if it appeared that she was encouraging victims not to communicate with his office, he could prosecute her for witness coercion. Jackson told HuffPost that the district attorneys offices actions have made her organizations work more difficult. She said she felt retaliated against for publicly criticizing the office for not offering supporting services. What they tell people is that they will likely have this witness protection when we dont have a witness protection program here in Orleans Parish, and theyre not being truthful. They give folks deceptive information to encourage them to share, Jackson said. I dont trust them at all, and I do share the sentiments of our clients because I know what theyre capable of. Tamara Jackson of the New Orleans organization Silence Is Violence. (Photo: ACLU) Both Civil Rights Corps and the ACLU are placing a new focus on prosecutorial accountability. Civil Rights Corps, which prides itself on an innovative and aggressive approach to civil rights law, has brought several notable challenges to bail systems across the United States, including a noteworthy case currently pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit that bail supporters and opponents are watching closely. Civil Rights Corps has received funding from Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg and his wife, pediatrician Priscilla Chan. As part of its new project on prosecutors, the organization is planning to build a publicly accessible, centralized database of instances of prosecutorial misconduct. It will also pursue pattern and practice cases when an office is accused of using unconstitutional methods on a widespread basis and state bar complaints. A job description for the project states that there are vast swaths of largely unexplored areas of the law in regard to prosecutorial misconduct. The ACLU also wants to draw attention to the role of prosecutors, both through litigation and through educational efforts. Arceneaux said the ACLU wants to challenge the contours of prosecutorial immunity and take cases that others arent always willing to take. The district attorneys hold a lot of power, and its not an easy lawsuit to bring for people in the local community, Arceneaux said. Prosecutors have enormous power, and they routinely operate without oversight. This story has been updated with a quote from Tamara Jackson. Read the full lawsuit below. Ryan Reilly is HuffPosts senior justice reporter, covering criminal justice, federal law enforcement and legal affairs. Have a tip? Reach him at ryan.reilly@huffingtonpost.com or on Signal at 202-527-9261. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Elon Musk tweeted last week that Tesla would shift its attentions to help with the aid and recovery efforts in Puerto Rico following the devastation of Hurricane Maria. Now, it appears that the company is making good on his word: Tesla has reportedly begun to ship its Powerpack batteries, which can be used to store large amounts of energy generated by the sun and other means, to the island. These are Tesla's massive batteries meant for commercial and utility use, as opposed to the smaller Powerwall packs meant for the home. After Musk expressed his willingness to get involved, he and Puerto Rico's governor Ricardo Rossello exchanged tweets about Tesla's role on the island, and later spoke in private about the issue. Tesla VP of global infrastructure operations Cal Lankton then met with Rossello, according to Electrek, presumably to discuss a strategy at greater length. The Powerpacks could be the next step in Tesla's recovery efforts. SEE ALSO: Tesla unveils a brand new dual-charging port for Chinese vehicles An image showing what appears to be three of the units was published by Electreck, which claims the photo was taken after the rigs were unloaded at San Juan's airport over the weekend. The 3,575-pound Powerpacks can store up to 210 kWh of power, and have been used in Tesla's projects on the Hawaiian island of Kauai and American Samoa's Ta'u to create sustainable power grids. The units could conceivably be pressed into service in Puerto Rico to help rebuild the grid using what power can be produced, but it's not exactly clear what they're meant for yet. Story continues If the image is the real deal, the Powerpacks expand on Telsa's contribution of "hundreds" of smaller Powerwall units sent to Puerto Rico in the immediate aftermath of the storm. The company also provided certified employees to help install the batteries, and Musk pledged that even more qualified workers would be sent from the mainland to train local installers and combat opportunistic price gougers on the island. Tesla representatives didn't immediately respond to our questions about the Powerpacks and the company's role in Puerto Rico's recovery, and the company has stayed largely silent about the efforts outside of Musk's tweets. At press time, just 13.7 percent of Puerto Rico has power. Rossello set an "aggressive" goal to restore power to 95 percent of the grid by Dec. 15 of this year, and maybe Tesla's renewable energy tech will be part of those efforts but the company shouldn't be seen as the island's one and only savior. Building a brand-new energy grid based on Tesla's tech would take far longer than a few months and would require a large number of Powerpacks the Kauai project, which is on a much smaller scale, depends on a network of more than 270 units. Kuala Lumpur (AFP) - Three companies have offered to resume the search for flight MH370 but no decision has been reached on whether to take up any of the proposals, a Malaysian minister said Tuesday. US seabed exploration firm Ocean Infinity, Dutch company Fugro -- which was involved in the original hunt -- and a Malaysian company have made offers, Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai told AFP. He did not disclose the name of the Malaysian company. The Malaysia Airlines plane with 239 people on board disappeared in March 2014 en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, sparking a massive underwater search in the remote southern Indian Ocean. No sign of the aircraft was found in a 120,000 square kilometre (46,000 square mile) zone based on satellite analysis of the jet's likely trajectory after it diverted from its flight path. The Australian-led hunt -- the largest in history -- was suspended in January, sparking criticism from families of those on board and some experts that it was called off too soon. "There are three search companies coming up with their proposals to continue the search, so we are looking into their proposals," Liow said. "This is only at the proposal stage... there is no timeframe." He said the head of Malaysia's Department of Civil Aviation was negotiating with the companies and the offers would also be discussed with Australia and China. The majority of passengers on the flight were Chinese and Beijing was also involved in the search effort. His comments came after Australian media reported that the Malaysian government was poised to announce soon that it was accepting one of the offers and the search would resume. Ocean Infinity, which has made a "no find, no fee" offer, was said to be the favourite. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau said this month in its final report into the disappearance that it was "inconceivable" for a large commercial aircraft to vanish in the modern era, but they now had a better understanding of where it might be. Only three fragments of MH370 have been found on western Indian Ocean shores, including a two-metre wing part known as a flaperon. It wasnt your typical Friday the 13th for the presidents daughter Tiffany Trump as she celebrated her birthday with friends and family. Turning 24, the Georgetown Law student snuck away from a night of studying to head to New York City for birthday festivities. Tiffany Trump shares a leggy photo from her 24th birthday. (Photo: Instagram/Tiffany Trump) While the party was mostly kept under wraps there were just a few social media posts by friends, her mother Marla Maples, and Tiffanys brother Donald Trump Jr. the guest of honor took to Instagram herself to share a shot from the evening on Monday. Although her gold and pink balloon bouquet seems to go on forever, so do her legs. #fridaythe13th #birthday A post shared by Tiffany Ariana Trump (@tiffanytrump) on Oct 16, 2017 at 5:49pm PDT Showing off her $675 Haute Hippie tuxedo dress, that has since sold out on most websites, Tiffanys pose displays her black sparkly pumps and her long limbs which people couldnt help but call out in the comments. THIS girl has legs clear up to her neck! one person commented. While another wondered about Tiffanys secret behind the illusion, writing, Howd you do that? I want my legs to look long!! Its evident that the mini dress, high heels and, of course, the photo angle are all working in Tiffanys favor. And with some extra blurring to the background of the shot, the birthday girl is made to be the center of attention. Numerous reports surrounding her birthday noticed the lack of social media love that Trumps youngest daughter received from the president, the first lady and even Tiffanys sister Ivanka. But the night at Urbani Truffles, followed by 1Oak surely seemed to make up for it. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. The murder trial of a man accused of brutally abusing and then killing an 8-year-old boy because the boy was thought to be gay has begun in Los Angeles, with a prosecutor detailing the systematic torture of the boy. Gabriel Fernandez was repeatedly beaten, sustaining a fractured skull and broken ribs, and suffered burn marks, Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Jonathan Hatami told a jury Monday. The child was starved, fed cat feces and his own vomit, sprayed with pepper spray and tied up and forced to sleep in a closet, the prosecutor said in his opening statement. Isauro Aguirre, 37, the boyfriend of the boys mother, is charged with murder and facing the death penalty in the case. The mother, 32-year-old Pearl Fernandez, also is charged with capital murder and will be tried separately. Gabriel Fernandez was found gagged and bound in a cabinet in the couples home in Palmdale, California, when first responders discovered him on May 22, 2013. He was declared brain dead and taken off life support two days later. (Photo: Family Handout) Hatami characterized the child as happy and healthy before moving from his grandparents home to live with his mother and her boyfriend, according to the Los Angeles Daily News. The couple told police that Gabriel liked to hit himself, he was gay and he wanted to kill himself, Hatami said. Aguirre also allegedly made Gabriel wear girls clothes to school. This wasnt about drugs. This wasnt about mental health issues, Hatami said. Aguirre abused the child because he didnt like him he believed Gabriel was gay and to him that was a bad thing he did it out of hatred of a little boy. Isauro Aguirre in court on Monday. (Photo: CBS LA) Gabriels last vision was [of Aguirre] standing over [him], beating him to death, Hatami said. The evidence will show that the defendant is nothing more than a bully. He was a security guard who intentionally tortured and abused a helpless and innocent little boy. Aguirres defense attorneys admit that he tortured Gabriel, but insisted the boys death was accidental. Story continues Aguirre through his actions committed the crime of murder, but ... in his mind he never intended to kill Gabriel, defense attorney John Alan said in his opening statement. The trials first witness, paramedic James Cermak testified that he first saw the boy when his partner carried his limp, lifeless body from a bedroom at the Palmdale house. As the paramedics sought to revive the child, we just started noting all the trauma on his body, Cermak said. The abuse included strangulation marks around his neck bite marks, bruises head to toe, he said. Four Los Angeles County social workers who were assigned to the boys case face charges of child abuse and falsifying public records stemming from his death. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. By Scott Malone BOSTON (Reuters) - A federal jury on Tuesday began deliberating whether a Massachusetts man was guilty of conspiring to help the Islamic State by plotting with his uncle and a friend to attack police and behead a conservative blogger. U.S. prosecutors contend that David Wright, 28, along with his uncle and a friend had plotted to kill the blogger, a woman who organized a 2015 "Draw Mohammed" contest in Garland, Texas. They said the plan unraveled when the uncle, Usamaah Abdullah Rahim, lost patience and said he wanted to kill police officers instead. "The defendant was a sophisticated recruiter, he manipulated people, including his own uncle, into believing that they needed to join ISIS and kill Americans," said Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Siegmann, using a common acronym to refer to Islamic State. "The defendant was committed to ISIS and he knew exactly what he was doing," Siegmann said in prosecutors' closing statements at Wright's trial in Boston federal court. The three bought knives and planned to travel to New York to kill Pamela Geller, the organizer of the "Draw Mohammed" contest. That plan fell apart in June 2015 when Rahim told Wright he had lost patience and planned to attack police in Boston. Law enforcement, who had been surveilling the group, overheard the conversation. When police approached Rahim to question him, he pulled a knife and was shot dead by officers. Defense attorney Jessica Diane Hedges said that Rahim's actions were a surprise to Wright. The defendant took the rare step of testifying in his own defense, saying he had never really intended to attack Geller. He described his actions as "role playing." Hedges noted that even law enforcement was surprised by Rahim's attack. "They weren't planning on arresting Mr. Wright until Usamaah Rahim did something," she said. "What the government has done in this case over and over is exploit the fear that ISIS inspires." Story continues If Wright is found guilty of the charge of conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism transcending national boundaries, he could face a life sentence. Geller had organized the Texas event in May 2015 featuring cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, images that many Muslims consider blasphemous. Two gunmen had attacked that event and were shot dead by police. Geller contends her event was intended as a demonstration of the free-speech rights protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. (Reporting by Scott Malone; Additional reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Leslie Adler and Matthew Lewis) U.S. Ambassador Jon Huntsman after meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Photo: Pavel Golovkin/AP) WASHINGTON Freshly arrived in Russia, U.S. Ambassador Jon Huntsman is promising his hosts to be practical when it comes to relations damaged by Moscows invasions of Georgia and Ukraine and by alleged meddling in the 2016 election. Its no secret were at a low point in the U.S.-Russian relationship, Huntsman says in a video designed to introduce himself to the people of Russia and posted a week ago on the official website of the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. As governor of Utah, as a successful entrepreneur, and as President Barack Obamas first ambassador to China, Ive always made a career out of finding practical solutions to tough problems, Huntsman says in the video. I look forward to engaging Russias leaders to find practical solutions to the many challenges that face todays relationship, Huntsman continues. Where we dont agree, Ill represent Americas values and interests with straight talk and Ill listen with respect and an open mind. The promise to be practical echoes Trumps own outlook towards Russia his eagerness to find common ground despite the unprecedented finding from the U.S. intelligence community that Moscow tried to shape the outcome of the 2016. Videos like the one recorded by Huntsman, who easily won confirmation in late September, are common tools for U.S. ambassadors to introduce themselves to the countries where theyre posted. State Department officials have told Yahoo News that local television outlets sometimes run clips when a new ambassador presents his or her credentials. Bill Hagerty, the envoy to Japan, used his video to say hed promote U.S. culture and to promise an ironclad commitment to that allys security an important message at a time of escalating tensions with nearby North Korea. (Hagertys video, shot at his home in Nashville, also includes a photograph of the future diplomat in Japan more than 20 years ago). The video from former Sen. Scott Brown, now ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa, includes shots of Browns snow-covered home, his collection of guitars and remarkably candid talk about his difficult upbringing. Story continues My mom and dad have been divorced four times each, and I lived in 17 houses by the time I was 18, Brown says, before referring to struggles with drunken stepfathers, a lot of physical abuse in the family and economic hardships. Read more from Yahoo News: President Donald Trumps approval rating for his handling of the response to hurricanes striking the U.S. has plummeted 20 points since Puerto Rico was devastated by back-to-back hurricanes last month, according to the latest CNN poll. After hurricanes struck Texas and Florida in late August and early September, 64 percent of Americans said they approved of how Trump managed the federal response. But a CNN poll released Monday, almost a month after Puerto Rico was hit by Hurricane Maria, shows Trumps approval had plunged to 44 percent. A larger percentage 47 percent said they disapproved. More than 80 percent of Puerto Rico remains without power as the death toll, now 48, continues to climb. Trump on Monday said military personnel are distributing food and water to hard-hit Puerto Ricans, adding with apparent annoyance: Something that really they shouldnt have to be doing. Approval for Trumps handling of the response has dropped precipitously among Hispanics from 49 percent in September to 22 percent in the new poll, CNN reported. Only 36 percent of all women and 32 percent of those under age 45 approve of Trumps handling of hurricane response. Trumps rating is down 9 percentage points among Republicans, 25 points among Democrats and 22 points among independents. Trumps overall job approval is 39 percent, a number that has declined slightly since the beginning of September, according to HuffPost Pollsters aggregation of publicly available polls. Disapproval is 57 percent. Trump issued several controversial tweets after Maria, appearing to blame Puerto Ricans for not doing more to help themselves, and costing the U.S. too much money. They want everything to be done for them when it should be a community effort, the president complained. The slow government response to the hurricane sparked criticism and angry pleas for increased help from San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz. A desperate Yulin Cruz pleaded again for help Sunday in an interview with HuffPost, saying: Damn it, were dying. Story continues She added: It may be easy to try to disregard us ... because were a U.S. territory and a colony. But we are people dammit and I dont care what the political status is. Trump renewed his criticisms on Twitter last week, saying that the island was a wreck before Maria hit from a financial crisis largely to their own making. He threatened to withdraw FEMA workers. "Puerto Rico survived the Hurricanes, now a financial crisis looms largely of their own making." says Sharyl Attkisson. A total lack of..... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 12, 2017 ...accountability say the Governor. Electric and all infrastructure was disaster before hurricanes. Congress to decide how much to spend.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 12, 2017 ...We cannot keep FEMA, the Military & the First Responders, who have been amazing (under the most difficult circumstances) in P.R. forever! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 12, 2017 Trump insisted he only heard good things from the people when he visited Puerto Rico and tossed rolls of paper towels to island residents in a scene that triggered more ridicule than praise. The president has repeatedly patted himself on the back for the governments response. The CNN poll was conducted by SSRS by telephone Oct. 12 to Oct. 15 among a random national sample of 1,010 adults. The margin of error is 3.5 points. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Its been well-documented that the world didnt end after America legalized same-sex marriage, but opponents of the Supreme Court decision havent cooled off. An exchange in the White House reported on by The New Yorker in an in-depth profile of Vice President Mike Pence feels like a prequel to the The Handmaids Tale, with President Donald Trump joking about the genocide of an entire segment of the population. In The Danger of President Pence by reporter Jane Meyer, Trump, the Manhattanite, is reported to make fun of the hard-line views of Pence, the Hoosier. The bolded quote below is what had gone viral on the internet on Monday. Two sources also recalled Trump needling Pence about his views on abortion and homosexuality. During a meeting with a legal scholar, Trump belittled Pences determination to overturn Roe v. Wade. The legal scholar had said that, if the Supreme Court did so, many states would likely legalize abortion on their own. You see? Trump asked Pence. Youve wasted all this time and energy on it, and its not going to end abortion anyway. When the conversation turned to gay rights, Trump motioned toward Pence and joked, Dont ask that guyhe wants to hang them all! Just your classic societal collapse. Steve Bannon, the ousted adviser to Trump, told Mayer that the president was known to clown on the VP by asking guests who had visited Pences office, Did Mike make you pray? which to be fair, is perfectly fine New York City-style chops-busting. Trumps disagreement with Pences views came up in more formal meetings, too. One such instance was when Trump contended that Roe v. Wade wouldnt be overturned by the Supreme Court, and if it was, states would merely legalize abortion on their own, as is their right. You see? Youve wasted all this time and energy on it and its not going to end abortion anyway, Trump told Pence in a meeting, before the conversation moved to same-sex marriage that resulted in the hang em all joke. Story continues The crux of Mayers piece is that while Trump has a long list of well-documented problems that may very well see him impeached or bring the country to war, Pence would bring a new set of problems albeit more traditionally Republican ones to the Oval Office. I think hes the most likely Republican nominee in 2024, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich told Mayer in her story. So, we may see President Pence yet. He wants to do what? Pences public hatred of LBGT people is out in the open for anyone to see. He has disparaged them in speeches and in policy. He opposed laws that would ban the discrimination of LGBT people while at work and rejected the idea that transgender bathrooms in schools should be OK. Perhaps most relevant to Trumps comments, Pence said in a speech that same-sex marriage would result in a societal collapse because it would equate to the deterioration of marriage and family. Its still unclear how two men being married is going to deteriorate a separate straight marriage. (The story in The Handmaids Tale of course, began because of a societal collapse, but Margaret Atwoods 1985 novel saw society break down because of low fertility rates and STDs, not same-sex marriage.) Photos via Getty Images / Christopher Jue, Getty Images / Chip Somodevilla Photos via Getty Images / Christopher Jue, Getty Images / Chip Somodevilla Written by Nick Lucchesi More articles by Nick Follow Nick on Twitter tweetshare More From Inverse US Vice President Mike Pence speaks during a campaign rally for gubernatorial candidate Ed Gillespie: Sarah D Davis/Getty Images Donald Trump once joked that his Vice President wanted to hang all gay people, a report has claimed. Mr Trump repeatedly chided Vice President Mike Pence for his religious views during a meeting with a legal scholar, according to the New Yorkers Jane Meyer. During a discussion about LGBTQ rights, the President motioned to Mr Pence and said: Dont ask that guyhe wants to hang them all! Mr Pence is known for his religious conservatism, which makes him highly popular with the GOPs Christian base. But it has reportedly caused friction with the less-devout Mr Trump, who has spoken at conservative Christian conferences but does not attend church regularly. At the same meeting, the group reportedly spoke about Roe v Wade the Supreme Court decision legalising abortion across the United States. The legal scholar argued that attempts to overturn the decision were pointless, as states would simply legalise abortion on their own. You see? Mr Trump asked his Vice President. Youve wasted all this time and energy on it, and its not going to end abortion anyway. At other times, Ms Meyer reports, Mr Trump would snidely ask campaign staffers if Mr Pence had made them pray with him. Mr Pence does, in fact, invite staffers to pray with him at weekly prayer meetings. The Vice President sponsors regular meetings on Capitol Hill with Ralph Drollinger, the founder of Capitol Ministries. Mr Drollinger has previously suggested that women who have children should not serve as politicians, and has called homosexuality an "abomination in the eyes of God. Mr Pence has his own, controversial history with LGBTQ rights. As a Representative for Indiana, he voted "no" on a bill banning discrimination against people based on sexual discrimination. He also voted against the repeal of Dont Ask Dont Tell, a law preventing gay people from serving openly in the military. Story continues Mr Pence has also been accused of supporting conversion therapy a discredited form of treatment that seeks to turn gay people straight after suggesting state money should be directed toward those institutions which provide assistance to those seeking to change their sexual behaviour. Mr Trump, despite his wisecracks, has also made several controversial decisions regarding the LGBTQ community. In February, his administration rolled back Obama-era protections for transgender students. In August, he announced a ban on transgender people serving in the military. Just last week, Mr Trump spoke at the Values Voter Summit for conservative Christians. Before he spoke, attendees were given pamphlets calling homosexuality a public health crisis. Related: For more news videos visit Yahoo View. WASHINGTON On Tuesday morning, President Donald Trump tweeted that Rep. Tom Marino (R-Pa.) had decided to remove himself from consideration as the administrations next drug czar. Two days earlier, The Washington Post and 60 Minutes published an investigation reporting how Marino led a successful effort to pass legislation that made it harder for law enforcement to go after opioid manufacturers. A handful of members of Congress, allied with the nations major drug distributors, prevailed upon the DEA and the Justice Department to agree to a more industry-friendly law, undermining efforts to stanch the flow of pain pills, the Post wrote on Sunday. Trump campaigned on halting the opioid epidemic by empowering law enforcement efforts. Sundays story undermined those promises. When asked about the article during a news conference on Monday, Trump declined to fully support Marino. As far as Tom Marino, so he was a very early supporter of mine, the great state of Pennsylvania. Hes a great guy, Trump said. I did see the report. Were going to look into the report. Were going to take it very seriously because were going to have a major announcement probably next week on the drug crisis and on the opioid massive problem, and I want to get that absolutely right Were going to be looking into Tom. Trump has struggled to install a new director of the Office of Drug Control Policy, a position commonly known as drug czar. The job requires Senate confirmation. President Barack Obamas nominee, Michael Botticelli, was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in 2015. The Trump administration has spent much of its time in office floating possible contenders. Marinos downfall had as much to do with the Trump administrations poor vetting as it had to do with investigative journalisms impact. When the White House first leaked Marinos name in April as a possible nominee to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, his involvement in the controversial legislation was already well known. Story continues CBS News mentioned it when Marinos name arose, reporting that his bill effectively curbs the DEAs ability to prosecute corporate drug distributors who have profited from the opioid epidemic. This issue was mentioned in several other news stories, including one in The Washington Post. A few weeks later, Marino, citing an illness in his family, took himself out of the running for the DEA job. When Trump officially nominated him for the drug czar post on Sept. 1, news stories at the time also mentioned Marinos DEA issue. So where was the White House vetting of Marino? I was shocked when his name came up, one former Office of Drug Control Policy official emailed HuffPost, all public record. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. President Donald Trump on Tuesday sought to deflect criticism of his widely disputed comments on fallen service members by invoking his chief of staffs son, who was killed in combat. Trump claimed on Monday that his predecessors, particularly President Barack Obama, didnt call the families of fallen troops, as he said he has done. His assertion was immediately debunked. A spokesman for Obama told HuffPost the former president engaged families of the fallen and wounded warriors throughout his presidency through calls, letters [and] visits,including to the Walter Reed military hospital in Washington. When Fox News Brian Kilmeade raised the matter Tuesday on his radio show, Trump responded: You could ask [White House chief of staff] General [John] Kelly, did he get a call from Obama? Kellys son, Robert, died in 2010 when he stepped on a land mine while serving in Afghanistan. Both father and son were Marines. I dont know what [President George W.] Bush did, I dont know what Obama did, Trump then admitted to Kilmeade. I write letters and I also call. I think Ive called every family of somebody thats died. I believe [Obamas] policy was somewhat different than my policy. He chalked up the controversy over his Monday remarks to fake news, and made a point of calling CNN just a bunch of fakers. Ned Price, a National Security Council official under Obama, reacted angrily to Trump broaching the death of Kellys son to continue taking swipes at Obama. Kelly, a man of honor & decency, should stop this inane cruelty. He saw up-close just how & how much Obama cared for the fallens families, Price tweeted. Kelly served as head of the U.S. militarys Southern Command during much of Obamas White House tenure. An unnamed White House official told Fox News John Roberts that the former president did not call Kelly after his son was killed. Kelly attended a Gold Star families event held at the White House in 2011, according to White House visitor records. Story continues A spokesman for Obama did not return a request for comment. This article has been updated with more details on contact between the Obama White House and Kelly. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. Donald Trump says it's over: Obamacare is "dead. The president made the announcement in a Cabinet meeting on Monday that the Affordable Care Act established by his predecessor should not be mentioned anymore. Speaking out against the health care act he pledged to repeal and replace during his presidential election campaign, the president said he had never believed it could be a success. "Obamacare is finished. It's dead. It's gone," Trump said at the meeting, in comments reported by The Hill. "You shouldn't even mention it. It's gone. There is no such thing as Obamacare anymore. It is a, and I said this years ago, it's a concept that couldn't have worked, he added, despite Obamacare continuing on and open enrollment running from November 1 to December 15. His comments come as the administration continues to work to dismantle the law, following a failed Senate vote to repeal and replace the legislation in July, a failure for which Trump has openly blamed Senator John McCain, who joined Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski in voting against the repeal bill. You look at McCainwhat McCain has done is a tremendous slap in the face to the Republican Party. Tremendous. He was good to go all the way up until 1 or 2 o'clock in the morning when he voted.... Without John McCain, we already have the health care, the president stated in an Alabama radio interview in September. Over the past week, Trumps administration has taken steps to pull apart the Obamacare legislation, announcing an end to health care cost-sharing subsidies. The president tweeted on October 13: The Democrats ObamaCare is imploding. Massive subsidy payments to their pet insurance companies has stopped. Dems should call me to fix! The Democrats ObamaCare is imploding. Massive subsidy payments to their pet insurance companies has stopped. Dems should call me to fix! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 13, 2017 His decision to end the payouts to insurers that sell Obamacare plans prompted a backlash from Democrats, along with concerns over the future of the people using Obamacare exchanges to purchase their insurance. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said in a joint statement: "It is a spiteful act of vast, pointless sabotage leveled at working families and the middle class in every corner of America. Story continues "Make no mistake about it, Trump will try to blame the Affordable Care Act, but this will fall on his back and he will pay the price for it, the statement added. Related Articles Senator John McCain, who had just been diagnosed with brain cancer, departs after returning to the Senate to vote on health care legislation in Washington on July 25, 2017: REUTERS/Aaron P. Bernstein Donald Trump is continuing to stoke his feud with veteran Republican senator John McCain, warning the Arizona Republican he would fight back against criticism. Among Republicans who have criticized the president, Senator McCain has emerged as a particularly vocal detractor. He also earned Mr Trumps animus by casting a key vote against the presidents push to repeal Barack Obamas healthcare law. This week he issued a stinging rebuke of Mr Trumps foreign policy - which has been animated by skepticism of international agreements - in a speech that slammed abdicating the obligations of international leadership because of some half-baked, spurious nationalism by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems. Receiving the Liberty Medal in Philadelphia on Monday, the six-term senator from Arizona warned against the US surrendering its international leadership. He said: To fear the world we have organised and led for three-quarters of a century, to abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership and our duty to remain the last best hope of Earth for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history." In a radio interview with WMAL on Tuesday, Mr Trump referenced Mr McCains shocker of a vote against healthcare, in response to which radio host Chris Plante referenced Mr McCains speech in saying the senator was taking shots at you yesterday. People have to be careful, because at some point I fight back, and it wont be pretty, Mr Trump replied. According to CNN, Mr McCain responded by saying Ive faced far greater challenges than this. The six-term senator spent years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam and was recently diagnosed with brain cancer. Story continues The two men have an uneasy history. During the presidential campaign Mr Trump spurred outrage for saying of Mr McCain I like people who weren't captured, and the two hold starkly different visions of America's place in the world. I like John McCain but we have to start rebuilding the United States instead of countries who hate us and want us to fail - be smart! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 27, 2013 But both Republican senators from Arizona have clashed with the president. Senator Jeff Flake wrote a book lambasting the president, which has led Mr Trump to publicly denounce Mr Flake and back an election challenge from another Republican. Feuds between the Oval Office and the Senate have increasingly burst into the open, with Senator Bob Corker - a Tennessee Republican who has been a reliable ally of Mr Trump - denouncing the president in an extraordinary interview as unstable and putting America at risk of World War III. Think about your Facebook page, or Instagram, or LinkedIn, or whatever social media you find yourself on most often. Perhaps you dont use social media, but do you have a spouse, child, relative or friend who does? There is a good chance you make an appearance on a social media site in some capacity. Consider all the personal information contained on your profile page. Your name, city, perhaps a place of work, alma mater, family members, interests, pictures, even phone numbers or addresses. Not that many years ago, many of us who use social media daily would have absolutely cringed at the thought of all that personal information online. While social media appears to be here to stay, it is essential to protect your privacy and identify common schemes that seek to steal your information or money. As we continue to focus on cybersecurity this National Cyber Security Month, Better Business Bureau encourages you to start with the following on social media: Crank privacy settings up, and watch what you share. Go through each account and see what information is provided. Do you really need your address on Facebook? Go through settings on each account, keeping in mind you may have to click through a few screens. You may be able to place controls on what kind of advertisements you see and what activity is tracked. Talk to your family and friends about what they share. Keep in mind once its online, its out there forever. Discuss what photos and information are appropriate to share and what needs to be kept private. Always double check friend requests: Dont just automatically click accept for new requests. Scammers like to impersonate friends to gain access to your page or message victims and request money. Take a few moments to look over the profile and verify that account is a real person, not a scam. Scan your list of friends to see if any show up twice. Watch for scam messages. BBB has received a number of reports of people getting a message, often from a supposed friend, who claims to have won money via a contest or grant. The friend then tries to convince the user to call and see if theyve won too, and soon, the requests for money begin. Never hesitate to verify with a friend offline if something seems suspicious. Dont blindly trust friends recommendations: Just because a friend shares a link, video or other information doesnt mean that its safe to click. It could be a fake account, a hacker or mean that your friend hasnt done his or her research. Unsafe links could lead to a phishing site or malware. Alert your friends: If your friend suddenly starts posting links to work-at-home schemes or scandalous celebrity videos, tell him or her directly about the suspicious activity. Otherwise, they may never know that their account has been impersonated. Report fake accounts and fraudulent posts: Most social media sites offer a report function. Robert Ackerman Jr. is the founder and a managing director of AllegisCyber, an early-stage cybersecurity venture firm, and a founder of DataTribe, a cybersecurity startup studio in metropolitan Washington, D.C. More posts by this contributor The Trump administration is already developing a pattern of being long on oratory but short on tangible action, and, sad to say, the Presidents cybersecurity Executive Order is following the script. No matter, it seems, that massive and increasing cyberattacks domestically and internationally are shredding confidence in the ability of major institutions to protect sensitive, typically consumer-centric data. The latest addition to the list of gargantuan cyber casualties is Equifax, the giant credit reporting agency, which failed miserably in coping with the theft of personal data on more than 145 million Americans. Shortly before were the WannaCry and NotPetya global ransomware attacks. And this month we heard that the massive data breach at Yahoo four years ago actually impacted not 1 billion Yahoo accounts but 3 billion all consumer accounts, period, at Yahoo. There is a narrow and fleeting window of opportunity before a watershed, 9/11 level cyber attack to organize effectively and take bold action, the National Infrastructure Advisory Council wrote in a report less than two months ago. We call on the administration to use this moment of foresight to take bold, decisive actions. And yet the Trump team continues to falter. Government civilian and military agencies had a 90-day deadline to review and assess their cybersecurity status and propose improvements. Eight deadlines related to this have come and gone, and more are approaching. Why the sluggish performance? Senator John McCain put it succinctly. Unfortunately, leadership from the executive branch on cybersecurity has been weak, he recently said. Story continues (Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images) The White House and agency officials have said the required reports are coming along. But they dont say when they will be submitted, nor do they say which of many subordinate deadlines, if any, have been met. It probably doesnt help that numerous members of the National Infrastructure Advisory Council, which advises the Department of Homeland Security on infrastructure and cybersecurity issues, recently resigned, citing concerns about the Trump administration regarding cybersecurity policy and other matters. The Trump cybersecurity Executive Order was built largely on existing policies and initiatives, but it nonetheless was the first formal cybersecurity policy -- or at least the skeleton of a policy -- issued by a U.S. president. It was a call to action in May, more than past administrations had done, and it was just a start -- all the more reason why ongoing delay in these perilous times is extremely risky. The administration needs to get moving because there is much important work to be done. Take, for example, the goal of improved protection of U.S. infrastructure. The administration must respond decisively to the fact that our electric grid and other key components of national infrastructure were designed to be functional, not secure. I dont know what the administration will ultimately do to fix this, but I recommend a three-pronged strategy. The government should define a level of expected cyber resiliency and produce a methodology to protect it. We should create a clearing center for the implementation of best practices in grid security. We should form an industrial bank to provide long-term financing to utilities that need it in order to help implement this. Here is my take on other key measures that must be taken -- sooner, rather than later -- to improve government cybersecurity. The first is addressed in Trumps EO; the others remain insufficiently addressed or not at all. WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 19: U.S. President Donald Trump welcomes members of his American Technology Council, including (L-R) Apple CEO Tim Cook, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos in the State Dining Room of the White House June 19, 2017 in Washington, DC." (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) * The EOs call for federal government agencies especially civilian agencies to seek opportunities to share cyber technology is a good move. In my opinion, its unwise to reinvent the wheel, one government silo at a time. Cloud-based computing and security frameworks available today make a holistic approach realistic. Data security frameworks would then be layered atop the cloud framework so that data can be shared while also encrypted. Individual agencies could then build on this framework for their unique needs. True, government silos have varying degrees of expertise, resources and sophistication. But security is only as strong as the weakest link in the network. If addressed, adversaries will find and exploit that link. * Cybersecurity experts in U.S. intelligence agencies must share some of their knowledge with American companies. Their expertise could also be tapped to help develop a cybersecurity infrastructure bank a bank that would loan government funds to small utilities, water plants and the like to help them quickly upgrade their cyber defenses. * Steps must be taken to persuade the government to purchase cybersecurity technology and services from innovative startups. The government today relies mostly on large, established cyber vendors, many of which do not sell state-of-the-art wares. Startups, by definition, must be innovative or die. * The government should cease buying cyber technology and related gear from foreign sources. Its too risky. The government already follows this policy to some extent, but must do more. On the plus side, China-based Huawei Technologies, the worlds largest telecommunications equipment manufacturer, is banned from selling its gear in America. The company is reputedly controlled, in part, by Chinas People Liberation Army. Hopefully, before much longer we will hear from each agency in the executive branch regarding what their security measures are and what are deemed to be significant risks. From there again, hopefully -- work will mitigate the risks. Steps taken dont necessarily have to follow my suggestions, but must be worthwhile. Lets try to be optimistic. As I said, at least we have a call to action. As Abraham Lincoln once said, Determine the thing that can and shall be done, and then we shall find the way. WASHINGTON President Donald Trump is angry at Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) for indirectly criticizing him in a speech Monday. People have to be careful because at some point I fight back, Trump told radio station WMAL on Tuesday. Im being very nice. Im being very, very nice. But at some point I fight back, and it wont be pretty. McCain, a former prisoner of war, had lambasted half-baked nationalism in a Monday night speech that didnt mention the president by name but described the presidents foreign policy agenda. To fear the world we have organized and led for three-quarters of a century, to abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, McCain said, for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. McCain also said we live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil a reference to the blood and soil chants used by Nazis during a violent August protest in Charlottesville, Virginia. Trump had said there were very fine people among the Nazis. Its not clear what leverage Trump thinks he has over McCain, to whom he hasnt been nice since he ridiculed the senator in July 2015 for having been captured during the Vietnam War. McCain spurned Trump in July and again in September by opposing Republican health care legislation, leaving Trumps legislative agenda in shambles. I have faced some pretty tough adversaries in the past, McCain told reporters Tuesday. Im not interested in confronting the president, Im interested in working with the president. Igor Bobic contributed reporting. Arthur Delaney hosts the HuffPost Politics podcast: Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump will travel to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, the Philippines and Hawaii between Nov. 3-14, the White House said on Monday, amid rising tensions over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. Trump will "call on the international community to join together in maximizing pressure on North Korea," the White House said in a statement, and will meet family members of Japanese citizens who have been abducted by North Korea. During his visit, Trump will emphasize his commitment to U.S. alliances and partnerships, attend events at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. He will also meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte and Vietnam President Tran Dai Quang. (Reporting by Makini Brice; Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe) President Trump at a news conference in the White House Rose Garden, Oct. 17, 2017. (Photo: Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP) President Trump will focus on tax reform when he delivers the keynote address at the Heritage Foundations annual Presidents Club meeting Tuesday evening. The president will use the speech before the audience of conservatives to make the case that his tax cuts will spur massive economic growth, senior administration officials said in a conference call with reporters. While the White House officials said theyre very confident and excited the plan will boost the economic fortunes of the middle class, they also acknowledged it has critics on both sides of the aisle and comes with high stakes for the president. The centerpiece of Trumps tax reform pitch is the $4,000 pay raise that our framework would deliver for a typical hard-working American family, an administration official said. However, that number is itself disputed by tax experts. Trumps plan calls for slashing the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent. While Democrats and other critics argue this will disproportionately benefit the rich, the White House said it will spur overall economic growth and wage increases that will lead to the income gains for those with lower incomes. On the call, senior officials cited figures showing job growth occurred after past tax cuts. Take a look back through history of what has happened economically in the United States when tax cuts get passed, one official said. The effects of past tax cuts are disputed, however, and there is data showing that job growth also followed tax increases. When asked about this, an official repeatedly noted that Trump was not looking at tax reform in a vacuum and was engaged in other efforts, including phasing out regulations in order to eliminate all barriers to economic growth and job creation. The presidents really taking a holistic approach to the economy and doing everything he can to, in his words, just put rocket fuel into the economy and really spur growth, the senior administration official said. Story continues Trumps tax reform push comes on the heels of his failure to repeal Obamacare. That loss meant many congressional Republicans were unable to make good on a promise to their base, which overwhelmingly supports ending former President Barack Obamas health care law. It also left Trump without a signature legislative achievement since taking office, despite his party controlling both houses of Congress. There are a ton of accomplishments that weve had over a very short time in being here that I think that we probably havent gotten enough credit for, an administration official said during Tuesdays call. Still, the official acknowledged, there was a certain sense of urgency to Trumps tax reform push. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, flanked by Sen. John Thune., left, and Majority Whip John Cornyn, Oct. 17, 2017. (Photo: J. Scott Applewhite/AP) There is a great deal of urgency we sense from members of Congress who are going back to their districts and hearing from their constituents who are saying things like, Listen, you guys promised us for seven years that you would replace Obamacare and you havent been able to do it. Youve been promising us if you could just get the House, Senate and the presidency you would do, you know, any number of things for the American people, the official said. I think the American people are expecting that. The official added that the need for tax reform isnt just about approval ratings. Theres a real sense of urgency over this, not just because of what it means for us politically or for members of Congress politically, but for what it means for the American people, how this is going to impact them and the idea that a regular American family out there could get a $4,000 pay raise as a result of this, the official said. Controlling 52 of the 100 seats in the Senate, Republicans hope to pass tax reform through reconciliation, which would only require a simple majority. That would mean either holding on to all GOP votes or winning over a few Democrats. The senior administration official told reporters the White House has a lot of optimism the plan will succeed and said he expected backing from the full spectrum of Republicans. If you just look at the dynamic of Congress, folks in the Freedom Caucus to more, you know, middle of the road kind of establishment-type Republicans, whatever you want to call it, everybodys kind of come together and said, Look, this is something thats too important for us not to do, the official said. The official further predicted that some Democrats might get behind the bill. There are some Democrats on Capitol Hill who realize that, you know, this is something that their constituents want a lot, the official said. However, Democrats have repeatedly attacked Trumps tax push as benefiting the wealthy. Ahead of Trumps speech, Democratic National Committee deputy communications director Adrienne Watson told Yahoo News the presidents pitch was the latest stop on a tour of tax lies. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer during a news conference on Capitol Hill, Oct. 5, 2017. (Photo: J. Scott Applewhite/AP) Americans know better than to believe his false promises about a pay raise that will never materialize for them. Weve seen repeatedly that tax cuts for wealthy corporations do not result in an increase in wages for workers, Watson said. Democrats will hold Trump and Republicans accountable for lying about their tax plan, and we demand that not one penny of tax cuts go to millionaires and wealthy corporations. Trump himself has admitted it will be tough to get Democrats to support the plan. After meeting with Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Monday, Trump said he thought it would be possible that three or four Democrats could support his tax cut plan. But he also predicted there could be zero Democratic backing. Thats because they are obstructionist and they basically want us to do badly, Trump said. Some Republicans have also indicated they might not support Trumps plan. Earlier this month, Tennessee Republican Bob Corker bluntly declared, Count me out if it adds a penny to the deficit. On Tuesday, the senior administration official dismissed the concern that Trumps tax reform could add to the debt. The official cited the White Houses prediction the plan would spur economic growth as well as Trumps efforts to curb federal spending. The combination of those cuts and then the growth aspect of this is really the way that hes going to go in there and sell it to this crowd tonight, the official said. Republican Maine Sen. Susan Collins has also expressed concern about the presidents plan, echoing the fears held by many Democrats that eliminating the estate tax and bringing down the top income tax rate would disproportionately benefit the wealthy. But the senior administration official said, The whole argument from some Democrats that this is tailored toward the wealthy is so tired. Its just nonsense because hard-working Americans are looking at what has happened over the past eight years, the official said, adding, Theyre saying, Well, the only people who have benefited from the economy and the tax structure as its currently set up are the wealthy and well connected. Read more from Yahoo News: ANKARA (Reuters) - A bomb blast wrecked a bus carrying police officers on Tuesday in the southern Turkish province of Mersin, injuring 18 people in an attack that security sources blamed on Kurdish militants. Seventeen of those hurt were police officers, Deputy Prime Minister and government spokesman Bekir Bozdag told parliament, branding it a terrorist attack. "Turkey's battle against terror will continue under any circumstances in a strong and determined way," Bozdag said. Security sources said militants of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) were believed to have carried out the attack. They also said that none of those wounded were in a critical condition. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the bombing. Local mayor Burhanettin Kocamaz told broadcaster Haberturk the attack took place on a street where the local governor's office was located and had hit the police vehicle as it passed. Images from NTV showed smoke billowing from the area, in Mersin's Yenisehir district. Ambulances, police and fire trucks were sent to the site of the attack, security sources said. Turkey is battling a three-decade insurgency in its mainly Kurdish southeast. The PKK frequently carries out bomb attacks on security forces in the southeast and elsewhere. The PKK is considered a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union as well as by Turkey. More than 40,000 people, most of them Kurds, have died since it first took up arms against the state in 1984. (Reporting by Ali Kucukgocmen, Tuvan Gumrukcu, Daren Butler; Editing by David Dolan and Gareth Jones) The list of victims adding their names to the Hollywood scandal involving disgraced movie producer Harvey Weinstein continued to grow over the weekend as new claims of sexual misconduct, including rape, emerged in media reports from across the globe. On Saturday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS)the governing body that decides the prestigious Academy Awardsvoted to expel Weinstein, 65, from the voting body. Weinstein produced the Oscar-winning picture Shakespeare In Love and his now-former production firm, The Weinstein Company, was responsible for distributing Oscar winners The Artist and The Kings Speech. New accusers came forward over the weekend alleging sexual abuse and harassment by Weinstein, and police in New York and London are thought to have opened investigations into the claims. The New York Post reported Sunday that the NYPD was investigating an alleged incident in 2004 concerning former aspiring actor Lucia Evans, who first came out against Weinstein in a New Yorker story last week. The Metropolitan Police Service in London, meanwhile, confirmed Sunday it was investigating five accounts of sexual assault by three different women, including the British soap opera star Lysette Anthony. The latest allegations made against Weinstein include: Lysette Anthony Anthony, who appears in the U.K. program Hollyoaks, told The Sunday Times newspaper that Weinstein purportedly raped her at her home in London. The pair met in 1982 and had been friends for some time when she says Weinstein attacked her in the hallway of her home. It was pathetic, revolting. I remember lying in the bath later and crying, she said. Related: A complete list of all the women accusing Harvey Weinstein of sexual misconduct Sarah Smith A former employee of Miramax, the company Weinstein ran with brother Bob until 2005, told the Mail on Sunday that she was raped by the movie mogul in the basement of Miramaxs London offices in 1992. The woman was identified only under the pseudonym of Sarah Smith by the Mail. Story continues He grabbed me and he was so big and powerful. He just ripped my clothes away and pushed me, threw me down. ThenI kept shouting, No! Stop! and tried to push him off. But he forced himself on me, said Smith. Samantha Panagrosso Model Panagrosso told Variety Sunday that Weinstein allegedly harassed her during the 2003 Cannes film festival. Panagrosso was seated next to the producer at a dinner where he made advances toward her. Later during the festival, she tells the publication, Weinstein turned up at her cabin on the yacht she was staying on and proceeded to harass her. He pushed me on the bed, tried groping me and I tried to play it off because I thought hes not going to do anything because my friends are on the boat. But it got very frustrating to get him out, said Panagrosso. Alice Evans British actor Alice Evans, the wife of Hollywood actor Ioan Gruffudd (Fantastic Four), claimed on the U.K.s Good Morning Britain program Monday that she, too, was harassed by Weinstein at a Hollywood party. Next thing Im hearing is, Id like to touch your boobs. Id like to touch your boobs, Id like to touch you, Id like to kiss you...Why dont you go the bathroom and Ill follow you, Evans said. It happened incredibly fast. He kept saying, Go to the bathroom, and I kept trying to extricate myself. Weinstein's lawyer has denied allegations of non-consexual sex. Related Articles By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday that President Donald Trump had instructed him to continue diplomatic efforts to calm rising tensions with North Korea, saying "those diplomatic efforts will continue until the first bomb drops." Speaking on CNN's "State of the Union," Tillerson downplayed messages that President Trump had previously posted on Twitter suggesting Tillerson was wasting his time trying to negotiate with "Little Rocket Man," a derogatory nickname Trump has coined for North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un. Trump "has made it clear to me to continue my diplomatic efforts," Tillerson said. Tillerson's comments Sunday come amid soaring tensions between the United States and North Korea following a series of weapons tests by Pyongyang and a war of words between the two countries' leaders. North Korea has conducted a series of nuclear tests in recent weeks and ago and launched two missiles over Japan. Tillerson has been in talks with China to enlist its help on getting North Korea to back down. But Trump's recent Twitter messages appeared to undercut Tillerson's efforts, prompting the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker to complain that Trump was publicly castrating Tillerson and hurting diplomatic talks. Tillerson downplayed those tweets Sunday, telling CNN that Trump and China's President Xi Jinping have an extremely close relationship and that China understands the U.S. position. "Rest assured that the Chinese are not confused in any way" about the American policy towards North Korea, he added. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch; Editing by Andrew Hay) Raqa (Syria) (AFP) - US-backed forces took full control of Raqa from the Islamic State group on Tuesday, defeating the last jihadist holdouts in the de facto Syrian capital of their now-shattered "caliphate". The victory caps a battle of more than four months, hammering another nail in the coffin of the jihadist group's experiment in statehood, which has collapsed in the face of offensives in Syria and Iraq. Inside Raqa, overjoyed fighters from the Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Forces celebrated and raised their yellow flag in the city's Al-Naim traffic circle, which became known as "Hell Roundabout" after jihadists used it for gruesome public executions. Raqa had become a byword for atrocities carried out by the jihadists and it was from the city that IS organised devastating overseas attacks like the Paris massacres in 2015 or August's attacks in Barcelona. "Hell Roundabout is now Al-Naim Roundabout again," the fighters in Raqa cheered, surrounded by crushed buildings and charred cars damaged in the fierce battle for the city. Rojda Felat, the SDF's commander for its Raqa operation, flashed a wide grin as she waved a huge yellow flag emblazoned with the militia's name, her rifle hanging from her shoulder. "God willing, joy will return to the whole city," said fighter Sevger Himo, his eyes gleaming. The defeat of IS in Raqa was a victory "the whole world was waiting for," said Omar Alloush, a member of the Raqa Civil Council formed to run the city after its liberation. Raqa has been devastated by fighting and emptied of civilians, with the last few thousand departing under a deal implemented over the weekend. For Umm Abdullah, a Raqa native who fled the city three years ago, news of its capture was overwhelming. "I can't describe my happiness," the 44-year-old told AFP in the town of Kobane, 100 kilometres (70 miles) north of Raqa. Celebratory gunfire could be heard across Kobane late into the evening. Story continues - 'Thank God, thank God' - "When my sister told me it had been freed, she started to cry, and then I started to cry. Thank God, thank God." SDF forces broke into Raqa in June after months of fighting to surround the city. On Tuesday they flushed the last few hundred IS fighters from their remaining positions in the main hospital and the municipal stadium. "Everything is finished in Raqa, our forces have taken full control of Raqa," the alliance's spokesman Talal Sello told AFP. He said the SDF was combing the city for any remaining jihadists who had not surrendered or been killed. "The military operations in Raqa have finished, but there are clearing operations now under way to uncover any sleeper cells there might be and remove mines," he said. The announcement came just days after the SDF launched the final phase of its operation to retake the city. There had been fears that the force, backed by the US-led coalition battling IS in Syria and Iraq, could get bogged down in a protracted battle for the last 10 percent of the city. But on Tuesday they captured the hospital and stadium in quick succession, effectively ending IS's more than three-year presence in the city. Sello said an official statement announcing "the liberation of the city" would be made soon. The US-led coalition backing the operation made no statement on the city's capture, but announced that IS had lost 87 percent of the territory it seized in 2014 and hundreds of its fighters had surrendered. "In the last few days, about 350 fighters surrendered to the SDF in Raqa, with several confirmed foreign fighters taken into custody after SDF screening," Baghdad-based coalition spokesman Colonel Ryan Dillon told reporters in a video call. "ISIS is losing in every way," he added in a tweet, using an alternative acronym for the group. "We've devastated their networks and eliminated leaders at all levels." The breakthrough in the Raqa operation, which was launched on June 6, came after a deal was struck allowing the evacuation in recent days of civilians who had been held as human shields. - IS confined to 'dwarf territory' - The battle for the city was fierce, with the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor saying Tuesday at least 3,250 people had been killed, including 1,130 civilians, with hundreds more still missing. Raqa's capture leaves IS in control of little more than a "dwarf territory" in neighbouring Deir Ezzor province, said Nicholas Heras, a fellow at the Centre for a New American Security think tank. "IS will be mainly boxed into a strip of territory running along the Middle Euphrates River Valley in the province of Deir Ezzor," he told AFP. "This will be the centre of gravity for IS in Syria." As well as the SDF campaign, the jihadists are facing a separate Russian-backed Syrian regime campaign that has retaken swathes of territory in the province, further rolling back a "caliphate" that three years ago was roughly the size of Britain. The Britain-based Observatory said regime forces had brought the entire area between Deir Ezzor city and Mayadeen, which was retaken on Saturday, under their control following a major military offensive. "These are not desert areas, they are villages along the Euphrates that were IS strongholds," the monitor said. "The Islamic State group is collapsing under pressure from the regime in Deir Ezzor province," it said. IS also controls territory in neighbouring regions on the Iraqi side of the border, where the jihadists are facing another US-backed offensive by Iraqi pro-government forces. US commanders actively trying to mediate between two sides in the oil-rich city after forces loyal to the government in Baghdad seized control on Monday Iraqi forces patrol in the streets after they retake the control of the city center from peshmerga forces in Kirkuk, Iraq, on Monday. Photograph: Uncredited/AP US military commanders are scrambling to stop a conflict escalating between two forces they arm and train, after the Iraqi army seized the contested, oil-rich city of Kirkuk, from Kurdish peshmerga. The Pentagon sought to play down the scale of clashes between the two sides, after forces loyal to the central government in Baghdad rapidly took over nearly all the city on Monday, and Kurdish forces abandoned their positions, retreating to nearby oilfields. Video footage showed streams of Kurdish refugees leaving Kirkuk in cars. Baghdads move came three weeks after a referendum on Kurdish independence included the ethnically diverse oil city a contentious move that Baghdad viewed as an effective annexation. The peshmerga withdrawal delivered decisive military and political gains to Baghdad and a devastating blow to the Kurdish regions de facto president, Massoud Barzani, who had staked much of his legacy on the referendum and aimed to use it as a stepping stone to consolidate Kurdish autonomy. Col Robert Manning, a Pentagon spokesman, described the takeover, as coordinated movements, not attacks and said an exchange of fire that is reported to have resulted in several casualties was an isolated incident. We have not seen levels of violences suggested in some of the media reports, Manning said, urging both parties to focus on the common threat of the Islamic State. This is certainly not helpful and again we encourage both sides to not fight each other. He added that US commanders in the region were active in trying to mediate between the two sides in the city. Coalition leaders at all levels are engaging with their counterparts in the Iraq security forces to encourage dialogue and de-escalation, Manning said. Speaking at the White House, Donald Trump said: We dont like the fact that they are clashing, but were not taking sides. Story continues But the US embassy in Baghdad declared its support for Iraqs reassertion of sovereignty in Kirkuk. We support the peaceful reassertion of federal authority, consistent with the Iraqi constitution, in all disputed areas, the embassy said in a statement. The confrontation with Kurdish forces is a serious threat to US efforts to focus its allies efforts against Isis, an effort in which Kurdish forces have been Washingtons most effective partner. There was also concern in Washington over the role of Iran in the move into Kirkuk. The Iraqi army advanced alongside mostly Shia Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), which are Iranian-backed. I am especially concerned by media reports that Iranian and Iranian-backed forces are part of the assault. Iraqi forces must take immediate steps to de-escalate this volatile situation by ceasing their advances, Senator John McCain said in a written statement. The United States provided equipment and training to the government of Iraq to fight Isis and secure itself from external threats not to attack elements of one of its own regional governments, which is a longstanding and valuable partner of the United States. Manning said the Pentagon had been assured by the Iraqi government and security forces that they would use US equipment in accordance with US law and our bilateral agreements. If we receive reports that US-origin equipment is being misused or provided to unauthorized users, we engage the Iraqi government in conjunction with the US embassy to address any confirmed issues up to the highest levels, if necessary, Manning added. He also said he was not aware of any direct Iranian involvement in the Kirkuk operation though the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds force, Gen Qassem Suleimani and PMU officials loyal to Irans supreme leader are reported to have directed the offensive. Iraqi children step on a Kurdish flag as forces advance towards the centre of Kirkuk during an operation against Kurdish fighters on Monday. Photograph: Ahmad Al-Rubaye/AFP/Getty Images Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior foreign policy adviser to the Iranian supreme leader, praised the Iraqi armys move to capture Kirkuk, framing it as a blow to Israels strategic ambitions. With the defeat of the Kurds in Kirkuk, Barzanis conspiracy against the regions security was foiled. Barzanis aim and Israels covert aim were to seize Kirkuks oilfields to serve the Israeli interest. In the Kurdistan region, they raise the flag of Israel and this means if Kurds gain independence in Iraq, we will share a border with Israel, Velayati said, according to the IRGC-affiliated Tasnim news. The Kirkuk governor, Najmladin Karim, has gone into hiding according to a former state department official, David Philips, who spoke to Karim on Sunday night at the time of the offensive. This was an attack by Shia militias under an Iranian commander, Philips, who is now director of Columbia University programme on peace-building and rights. The PMU is an entirely Iranian construct, he added. This operation was about Iran against Kurdistan. Philips pointed out that the US special envoy for the anti-Isis coalition, Brett McGurk, was in Baghdad over the weekend for talks with the Iraqi prime minister, Haider al-Abadi. I would like to know what he and Abadi talked about, he said. The long history of links to the Kurds didnt seem to matter when it came to crunch time. In a statement on Monday, Abadi said: We have only acted to fulfil our constitutional duty to extend the federal authority and impose security and protect the national wealth in this city, which we want to remain a city of peaceful coexistence for all Iraqis. Kirkuk was seized by the Kurds in the summer of 2014, after Iraqi forces fled their positions following an Isis attack on nearby Mosul. At the time, peshmerga units beat Isis militants in a race to control installations and oilfields. Ever since, Erbil has tried to strengthen its claim on the city, which comprises Kurds, Arabs and Turkmen and is the epicentre of regional oil production. Kurdish officials had set up a pipeline from Kirkuk to Turkey, through which they had been selling crude oil amid bitter opposition from Baghdad. The withdrawal of Kurdish forces underscores a deep rivalry between two political blocs in Iraqi Kurdistan, which came to a head in the past three days as Iraqi forces and allied Shia units stalked Kurdish forces from south of the city. Some leaders of the PUK bloc, based in the regions second city, Sulaymaniyah, had viewed the referendum as a partisan move by Barzani to consolidate domestic control. The veteran leader had instead insisted that the ballot represented a defining moment in Kurdish history, which he hoped would transcendhelp overcome longstanding disunity. Divisions, however, were on stark display, as the peshmerga units capitulated, shocking even members of the two feuding parties. The general command of Kurdistans peshmerga slammed the PUK for what it described as a major historic betrayal. In contrast, Iraqi leaders, including Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis and Haidar al-Ameri, both senior commanders of the Popular Mobilisation units a conglomerate of largely Shia forces, arrived in Kirkuk mid-afternoon to witness the Iraqi flag being raised at the governors office. The decision to hold the ballot had drawn strident criticism from Iran, Turkey, Baghdad and the US. Baghdad and Tehran have blockaded the Kurdish north for the past two weeks, closing air space and partially suspending trade. Shia units pressed into Kirkuks southern outskirts early on Monday and civilians started leaving the city en masse. Aziz Ahmad, an aide to the Erbil-based security tsar, Masrour Barzani, said rival security officials of the PUK bloc, had betrayed Kirkuk and [the people of] Kurdistan, conceded to Iran and withdrew from frontlines without a fight. Peshmerga units loyal to Barzani remain in control of two oilfields north of Kirkuk and said they had no intention of surrendering them. But the remaining Kurdish forces appear to have little chance of holding back a bigger and better armed foe, should the central government choose to attack. Harare (AFP) - At least 50 people want to become Zimbabwe's hangman, a job that fell vacant over a decade ago, officials said Tuesday, stressing that applicants were "very interested" in the role. The country, which has an unemployment rate of more than 90 percent by some measures, last executed a prisoner in 2005, after which the serving hangman retired. "The response has been overwhelming and the applications have been from both men and women," justice ministry secretary Virginia Mabhiza told the NewsDay newspaper. "We have received over 50 applications in the past few months. People are very interested." After a long search, a new hangman was reported to have been appointed in 2012 but the chosen candidate was never confirmed. Rights groups including Amnesty International have often called on Zimbabwe, which has 92 inmates on death row, to abolish capital punishment. Zimbabwe's new 2013 constitution exempts women from the hangman's noose. "All men between 18 and 69 years (who) have been convicted of murder in aggravated circumstances can receive capital punishment," Mabhiza was quoted as saying. She did not say when the hangman would be appointed or if Zimbabwe intended to revive executions soon. Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was justice minister until a recent cabinet reshuffle, is a strong opponent of the death penalty. President Trump is set to meet Monday with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell as the fate of his first term in office increasingly relies on his uneasy relationship with his fellow Republican. Trump and McConnell have feuded over rhetoric, expectations, and the failure of the GOP efforts to repeal and replace Obamacare, but now they need each other more than ever. Establishment Republicans are increasingly on the defensive over their meager legislative accomplishments at a time of unified GOP control and facing renewed threats of challenge from the nationalist wing of the party. Trump, meanwhile, has placed the hopes of the first year of his presidency on the fate of tax reform for which he needs McConnells legislative muscle. But time is running out even for that shared priority, as the clock ticks down to 2018, and the midterm elections. Pharmaceutical distributors efforts to undermine the enforcement power of the DEA are in the spotlight Monday after a bombshell report by the Washington Post and 60 Minutes into the opioid epidemic. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) called for Trump to withdraw the nomination of Rep. Tom Marino to be the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, over concerns about his efforts pushing legislation that benefited drug distributors. Kelly tries to fill jobs. Tillerson responds to Corker. And fact checking Trumps tax plan claims. Here are your must reads: Must Reads Ex-DEA Agent: Opioid Crisis Fueled by Drug Industry and Congress Whistleblower Joe Rannazzisi says drug distributors pumped opioids into U.S. communities [CBS] The Drug Industrys Triumph Over the DEA Amid a targeted lobbying effort, Congress weakened the DEAs ability to go after drug distributors [Washington Post] No One Knows What Steve Bannons War Will Actually Look Like The former top Trump strategist is working to take down establishment Republicans [BuzzFeed] Kelly Tries to Get Empty Administration Jobs Filled Fast Conservatives are demanding faster action on vacant political appointments [Politico] Story continues President Trump Put the Fate of the Iran Nuclear Deal in Congress Hands What it means [TIME] The Womens March Invited Bernie Sanders. Then the Trouble Started [TIME] Politics NewsletterSign up to receive the days top political stories View Sample Sound Off Those diplomatic efforts will continue until the first bomb drops. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to CNN on North Korea I checked. Im fully intact. Tillerson to CNN responding to Sen. Bob Corkers charge that hed been gelded Bits and Bites This Is Our War. Steve Bannon Tears Into GOP Agenda [TIME] Fact Check: Trumps tax plan is far from the biggest ever [Associated Press] Trump campaigns legal spending tops $1 million during third quarter [Politico] President Trump Brags About Drop in Health Insurance Stocks [TIME] Robert Muellers Team Just Interviewed Trumps Former Chief of Staff Reince Priebus [TIME] Petty Stuff. Rex Tillerson Brushes Off Drama with President Trump [Associated Press] Trump Says He Met With the President of the Virgin Islands. But Thats Him [TIME] Fire services were battling dozens of blazes across Portugal and Spain on October 15 and 16. This video was recorded on October 13, and shows fires burning near the A17 motorway outside Vagos. Authorities said they were still fighting 145 fires in Portugal and another 100 in Spain. At least 30 people were reported to have died. The Portuguese government asked for international help and declared a state of emergency. Credit: Joao Pico via Storyful Cops have identified the woman they say was caught on security footage stealing the credit card of a 7-Eleven clerk who was having a seizure at the time. Read: Dad and His Teenage Son Dress as an Elderly Couple to Rob Convenience Store The cashier of the Salt Lake City convenience store could be seen in security footage from earlier this month falling to the ground, clearly having a medical emergency. But instead of helping, the female customer, known as a regular of the 7-Eleven, reached into his pocket and took his credit card, local authorities said. Cops said she used the card to buy items online soon after. Read: Shoplifter Wreaks Havoc on Convenience Store After Shopkeeper Asks Her to Return Stolen Candy: Cops The Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake told InsideEdition.com the release of the suspect's identity is pending further investigation. Watch: Man Ransacks Store After His Credit Card Was Declined for 75-Cent Bag of M&Ms: Cops Related Articles: The events of the past few days strengthen the widespread notion that the more we approach the prime ministers investigations, Benjamin Netanyahu will start loosening the brakes of the semitrailer he is driving on a mine-filled road. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter Several weeks ago, I wrote in this column that if we want to know if Netanyahu is headed to elections or will maintain his government, we should look at the way the French law is being handled. The bill, which grants a sitting prime minister immunity from prosecution, will be voted on at the start of the Knessets winter session. And here it is, the bill aimed at stopping the prime ministers investigations. If the law is adopted, it will only be applied from the next term, but is there anything that can stop Netanyahu from calling early elections, even before an indictment is filed, establishing a new government and stopping the investigations against him? Does that sound groundless? Impossible? Were talking about Netanyahu, ladies and gentlemen. When it comes to him, nothing is groundless. Netanyahu. Inserting a knife into the heart of the conspiracy he sees in his imagination, in which the police, the State Attorneys Office, the attorney general and the media have all teamed up to oust him (Photo: EPA) How is Netanyahus attack on Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh, for allowing the alleged leaks from police investigations, connected to the new initiatives that were raised Sunday to shut down the Israel Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC) and to advance the law preventing investigations against a sitting prime minister? Theres absolutely no connection. But when it comes to Netanyahu, theres always a connection, even if it appears completely groundless at first. And its always aimed at serving the prime ministers needs in some way: Diverting the publics attention to a different direction, which is more convenient than the current issue on the agenda; creating some kind of media spin, for the familys survival purposes; inserting a knife, a pitchfork or any other sharp object into the heart of the conspiracy Netanyahu sees in his imagination, in which the police, the State Attorneys Office, the attorney general, the media have all teamed up to oust him. And all this is happening when there is nothing, there was nothing and there will be nothing. On Saturday evening, after a Channel 2 report on his upcoming interrogations, Netanyahu rushed to attack the police chief over the leaks and didnt forget to add the regular mantra about a media campaign against him. Its unclear what prompted Netanyahu to respond in such a manner to something that has been known for a long time nowthat he would be summoned for questioning after the High Holy Days. Instead of resting on the laurels of the weekend, leveraging what he sees as a successful speech by US President Donald Trump on the Iranian nuclear agreement and the American decision to withdraw from UNESCO, Netanyahu chose to lash out at the police. How did his scolding of the police commissionernot to mention Lior Horev, an external advisor to the policedo him any good? Why does a prime minister who is busy dealing with the nuclear threat, with the reconciliation agreement between Fatah and Hamas, have to engage in settling account with media advisors? Excuse me, but isnt this issue a little out of his league? Its quite possible that in the next support rally organized by Coalition Chairman David Bitan, alongside the attacks on his former employee Meni Naftali, the prime ministers speech will also include smears against Horev. How many people were even aware of Horevs existence until Saturday night? What a huge upgrade for Horev, what an embarrassing downgrade for Netanyahu. Netanyahu and media advisor Lior Horev. How many people were even aware of Horevs existence before Netanyahu decided to lash out at him too? (Photos: Alex Kolomoisky, Marc Israel Sellem) One things for sure: If Netanyahu had a media advisor like the late Shaya Segal by his side, none of this would have happened. A serious advisor wouldnt let the prime minister turn his personal scores with people with no public standing into such a big issue. Who do you think they are, Segal would roar. But thats what happens when your media advisors are your wife and son. Its possible that even Netanyahu realized the mistake he made in his reckless response, which didnt do him any good. And when it comes to Netanyahu, theres always the option of sending a new spin into the air, a comment which will stir a row, an initiative which will be left on the cutting room floor. And with the help of Minister Aryeh Deri, who used to be the governments responsible adult until recently and is now serving as Netanyahu's tow truck, he raised the issue of shutting down the IPBC, which immediately made it the top of the medias agenda, pushing down the investigation leaks issue. The IPBC people really shouldnt panic. First of all, because thats what Netanyahu wants: Panic. This is another attempt to threaten, deter, show whos boss. It wont happen, and not because of Minister Moshe Kahlons objection. Netanyahu will simply have more urgent things to deal with in the coming weeks, including his own investigations and the recommendation to indict his wife. Furthermore, he has no motivation to clash with his finance minister, although Kahlon himself is much more prepared today to reach compromises with the prime minister. My bet is that this is just another impulsive comment sparking a media debate, which will die out within several days. Until the next spin comes along. For at least six months now, Israel has been exercising restraint over the Syrian anti-aircraft fire at Israel Air Force planes. For at least six months now, Israel has been warning Syria that if the fire doesn't stop, the batteries of those missiles will be targeted. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter A rule of thumb in the Israeli security policy determines that any anti-aircraft system with missile batteries that illuminate and close in on an IAF aircraft will be destroyed, all the more so if the missiles have been launched. Israels air supremacyin other words, its freedom of action in the arenais one of the most sensitive issues in the Israeli security perception, which guarantees its military supremacy. Israeli F-16 fighter jet. A rule of thumb in the Israeli security policy is that any anti-aircraft system with missile batteries that illuminate and close in on an IAF aircraft will be destroyed (Photo: EPA) Since March 2017, Syria has changed its policy of responding to IAF activities in the country: It no longer ignores and hides behind Israels denial of the strikes, but it actively responds in an attempt to shoot down an Israeli aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicle operating in the arena. During these months, IAF photography and patrol flights were attacked with Syrian anti-aircraft fire quite a few times. Israel avoided reporting these eventseither due to diplomatic-security reasons or because the conditions for responding by attacking the batteries had not been created yetbut it did convey explicit warnings to the Syrians, which apparently were not taken seriously in Damascus. After realizing that the Iranians were not taking Israel seriously either (Tehran appeared unfazed by the Israeli warning that it would not accept permanent Iranian bases on Syrian soil), Israel could no longer afford to keep threatening without responding. On Monday, the IDF had an opportunity to fulfill the open skies policy while making it clear to the Iranians as well that the Israelis are dead serious. So Israel not only attacked but also made the strike public, consciously giving up the ambiguity which has so far allowed Syrian President Bashar Assad to avoid a dramatic response. Whoever greenlighted the strike likely estimates that the batterys destruction and the publication wont necessarily lead to a military deterioration in the region. Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman (R) with his Russian counterpart, General Sergei Shoigu, in Tel Aviv, Monday (Photo: Motti Kimchi) There is an attempt here to return the Syrian president to his natural proportions. In the past few weeks, Assad has been acting as if he won the war. Suddenly, he is going out to pray far from the secured area in Damascus, his government ministers are touring the fronts, and in general, the Syrian government feels firmly in the saddle. The purpose of the publication is to say to him: If you keep provoking us, well keep dwarfing you. This air strike cannot be disconnected from Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigus visit to Israel and from his meeting with Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman on Monday. Israelis who were present in the meeting noticed the Russian ministers bad mood, perhaps because of the timing. An Israeli attack on a Syrian military facility, deep within Syria, while the Russian defense minister is in Israel, basically conveys the following message to the Syrians: Russia wont automatically back you, and if Assad choses to let the situation deterioratehe will pay for it. By the way, this isnt the first time Lieberman approves a strike in Syria while meeting with the Russians. He approved a strike several months ago too, as he was meeting with his Russian counterpart in Moscow. He explained to surprised defense officials that the Russians despise weakness and dont respect those who dont fight for their interests. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Russias Minister of Defense Sergey Shoygu Tuesday that Israel will not allow Iran to entrench its military forces in Syria. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter Iran has to understand that Israel will not allow this, Netanyahu said during the meeting in Jerusalem, which was also attended by Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman. ussias Minister of Defense Sergey Shoygu arrives in Israel (: , , ) X Also during the meeting, Lieberman and Netanyahu also discussed the Iran nuclear deal which president Donald Trump refused to recertify last week. Netanyahu warned the Russian defense minister that unless the deal is altered, Iran will be able to build up a stockpile of nuclear weapons within 8-10 years. (Photo: Haim Zach/GPO) Prior to the meeting, Shoygu, as part of his two-day trip, was escorted by Lieberman around the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial Museum. (Photo: Haim Zach/GPO) Shoygu arrived in Israel on Monday evening to kick off what is the visit in years by a Russian official in his position to Israel. His landing came against a background of an attack by the Israel Air Force on a Syrian aerial defense battery on Monday morning, which earlier launched a surface-to-air missile towards IAF planes Lieberman and Shoygu at Yad Vashem (Photo: EPA) This is his first visit, and as his first visit as defense minister, it is of extraordinary importance, Lieberman said on Monday. We greatly appreciate our relationship with Russia, especially the openness and frankness. We don't always agree but we always speak frankly and openly. We believe that the moment there is open and frank dialogue, any problems can be overcome. A day after Shoygu concludes his visit, Lieberman will take off for Washington to meet with US Defense Secretary James Mattis, with Iran occupying the bulk of their focus and Trumps announcement of a new policy review of the USs approach to the Iranians and the situation in Syria. TWIN FALLS One-fourth of the school year is already over. That means its time for parent-teacher conferences across south-central Idaho. In the Twin Falls School District with about 9,300 students its a student-led format where students explain their schoolwork to their parents. Its a nice opportunity for everyone to pause and reflect on the students academic progress, said Candace Wright, a math and science teacher at Twin Falls High School. Shes also an advisory teacher for sophomores. During a conference, which typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes, students explain a portfolio of work to their parents and talk about ways they could improve. In Twin Falls elementary schools, teachers help children pick out samples of their schoolwork. The resulting portfolio demonstrates evidence of their learning and understanding, said Briana Rieth, a fifth-grade teacher at Bickel Elementary School. At middle and high schools, parents meet with their childs advisory teacher instead of meeting with a teacher for each class. At Twin Falls High School, students filled out a self-evaluation form on Monday for each of their classes. Theyll reflect on what theyre doing to be successful and what they can try to do to improve, Wright said. Teachers hand out samples of work to each student, such as a graded test or project, to keep for their conference. The advisory teacher takes a fairly background role since its really student-led, Wright said. At most Twin Falls schools, conferences run this week. Meetings are typically scheduled in the evenings, but sometimes teachers use their preparation period or lunchtime for conferences. Some schools also extend their schedule on a case-by-case basis if parents arent available. And for some campuses, like Bickel Elementary School, parents who dont speak fluent English often require a translator. Conferences often extend for two to three weeks, Reith said, in order to accommodate translators schedules. For teachers and students alike, theres light at the end of the tunnel. Students get Thursday and Friday off Thursday to accommodate conferences and Friday for the end of first quarter. Teachers have Friday off because theyll put in long hours this week, Twin Falls School District spokeswoman Eva Craner said, but many work that day anyway to wrap up the quarter. Parents: Here are five tips for how to make the most of student-led conferences. Monitor your childs grades Teachers use an online program called PowerSchool to upload grades. Parents can log in to view their childs grades throughout the school year. Rieth encourages parents to be aware of their childs progress before the student-led conferences. That can help with avoiding any unwelcome shocks when talking with your childs teacher. Surprises arent always fun, she said. Communicate with teachers Rieth said she appreciates when parents stay in touch throughout the school year. That includes giving her a heads up about things she should know about their child, such as: In years past, weve struggled with this, she said. It saves time from figuring it out on our own. Also, if parents are in contact regularly with their childs teacher, it allows for maximum use of time during student-led conferences. Then, conference time can be used for focusing on how to better help a student through programs like tutoring or enrichment opportunities. Turn your phone on silent Rieth suggests turning your phone on silent during your students conference and devoting your full attention to the meeting. Keep your child on track If your child is struggling to explain their work, Wright said, prompt them by asking if they have work samples to share. Be aware of siblings Many families bring siblings to their childs conference, Rieth said. She suggests bringing a phone or tablet so they can stay entertained. It can be hard to focus if siblings are being loud or disruptive, or getting into classroom supplies, she said. To help, teachers try to coordinate back-to-back conferences for siblings who attend the same school. Many teachers also leave out blocks or coloring materials to keep siblings occupied during conferences. TWIN FALLS In April 2017, Southern Idaho Regional Communications selected Geo-Comm Inc. to collect and verify map data for use in the 9-1-1 dispatch center and by emergency responders. This field verification process will enhance the accuracy of the countywide address point layer. From October through December, representatives from GeoComm, a Saint Cloud, Minn.-based company, will verify addresses in the area by driving the roads in a silver Hyundai Santa Fe, which will be marked with GeoComm and 9-1-1 logos on each side of the vehicle. In some cases, the GeoComm field technician will need only to verify the location of the residential structure without speaking to the occupant; residents may see a GeoComm vehicle come up their driveway, then turn around and leave. If a house number is not posted on a structure, a GeoComm technician may approach the house to verify the address. If the resident is not available and the house number is not posted, the field technician will leave a flyer with instructions for the resident to email or phone in their correct information. Residents are encouraged to post their house numbers, as this will assist the field crew and decrease the chances of a follow-up visit. Any information provided to GeoComm will be confidential and its distribution restricted to those parties involved in the project. If residents or businesses have concerns or questions about this process or about providing information over the phone, contact a SIRCOMM representative at 208-324-1344. More information: www.geo-comm.com. TWIN FALLS Weeks after being placed on administrative leave, Twin Falls fire chief has resigned. Tim Soule sent a letter late Friday notifying city administration of his immediate resignation. The city announced Tuesday that it accepted. Soule had been on paid administrative since Aug. 29 as the city conducted an investigation. City officials have declined to disclose what they were probing, other than to say it was not connected to criminal activity. Tuesday marked one year to the date since Soule was sworn in as fire chief, with an annual salary of $123,188. According to a legal separation agreement obtained by the Times-News, Soule will continue to be paid through Dec. 16, representing gross pay of $26,059. After withholding and retirement, the net salary payment is $18,823.53. Additionally, the city has agreed to pay out $7,832.51 in gross pay for accrued vacation; $2,538.78 for insurance and $4,341.43 for the employers retirement contribution. The parties also agreed to the specific wording in a press release to announce Soules departure. City Manager Travis Rothweiler said in a statement: Soule possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience about fire and emergency response services. Its difficult for us to lose that, but we also recognize that not all professional relationships are the right fit, and moving in a new direction will benefit the organization and community. The city does not intend to publicly discuss what led Soule to leave, but it will explain the reasons to battalion chiefs, union representatives and other fire department leadership, according to agreement. But only if they sign non-disclosure agreements that prohibit them from telling others what they learn. Soule also issued a statement: The Twin Falls community is fortunate to have such outstanding men and women serving their life safety needs with the Twin Falls Fire Department. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of initiatives, over the past year, that have benefited the Department, City and surrounding community. An Ohio native, Soule began his firefighting career in the suburbs of Cleveland before moving on to Kalispell, Mont. Prior to moving to Twin Falls, he served as deputy chief of the East Fork Fire Protection District in Minden, Nev. He has more than 25 years of experience in fire and emergency services. Soule was selected from among three semi-finalist candidates based on qualifications in emergency management, leadership and community involvement. Since his leave from duty, the departments operations have been managed by three battalion chiefs, with the captains reporting to them. US-backed forces fighting ISIS in Raqqa say "major military operations" in the city have ended and that the jihadists have lost control of their self-declared capital. The development marks a decisive victory in the fight against ISIS, though US officials said there were still pockets of resistance in the city. "Major military operations in Raqqa are finished but they are now clearing the city of sleeper cells -- if they exist -- and mines," Talal Salo, spokesman for the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, told CNN. The SDF is a coalition of Arab and Kurdish fighters. "The situation in Raqqa is under control and soon there will be an official statement declaring the liberation of the city." Symbol of ISIS decline The defeat of ISIS in Raqqa is a symbol of the terror group's decline -- it now controls a small strip of territory along the Euphrates river in northern Syria. The city became the de facto capital of the terror group's self-proclaimed "caliphate" following a sweep of territorial gains in Iraq and Syria in 2014. Foreign fighters swelled the ranks of ISIS in Raqqa, which it used as a base to launch terror attacks around the world. A sustained effort to retake the city began in early June, in an operation led by the SDF and backed up by coalition air strikes. The SDF announced the final phase of the operation at the weekend. In the past few days, the SDF said it had cleared ISIS fighters from the National Raqqa Hospital and Paradise Square, the infamous area in the center where ISIS jihadists carried out public beheadings and crucifixions. The terror group's black flag was hauled down from Raqqa's stadium, its last hideout in the city, on Tuesday, Reuters reported. "The SDF have taken casualties in the past hours and we expect there will still be pockets of ISIS fighters in the coming days," coalition spokesman Col. Ryan Dillon told CNN. In a sign that the SDF operation was nearing a conclusion, coalition air strikes had eased off in the past week. There was only one US airstrike in Syria Monday, but that was far from Raqqa. Dillon said the SDF hadn't asked for air support in the past couple of days. Raqqa Is Being Slaughtered Silently (RBSS), the award-winning network of citizen journalists who remained in the city throughout the occupation, tweeted Monday that 30 buses and 10 trucks were used to transfer ISIS fighters from Raqqa. The group also said that since the US-backed operation to free Raqqa began in early June, there had been 3,829 airstrikes on the city, 90 suicide bombings and 1,873 victims. It said 450,000 people had been displaced. "We don't consider it a liberation because SDF has committed many human rights violations against civilians," Abdalaziz Alhamza, co-founder of RBSS told CNN. "Most of Raqqa people, including us, were looking forward to the day that ISIS would be defeated, but not in this scenario, having a new leadership that committed many human rights violations," he said. Alhamza also warned that the ISIS ideology was still spreading. "They might disappear from Syria and Iraq but they will appear somewhere else," he said, adding that many will probably have returned to their families in the countryside. Humanitarian crisis grows Meanwhile Save the Children warned that the humanitarian crisis was escalating, despite the retreat of ISIS in the region. "The military offensive in Raqqa may be coming to an end, but the humanitarian crisis is greater than ever," the aid group's Syria director Sonia Khush said in a statement. It warned that some 270,000 people who had fled the fighting in Raqqa still needed help, and that refugee camps were "bursting at the seams." It said that most families had no homes to return to and that thousands of civilians were displaced in the eastern Deir Ezzor province, where fighting was still ongoing Tuesday. "Many are plagued by nightmares from witnessing horrific violence and will need extensive psychological support," Save the Children said. Mohammad Hassan contributed to this report. Egypt has announced it will delay opening Rafah crossing between the North African country and the Gaza Strip until further notice, citing terror attacks against armed forces in the region by jihadists. The Rafah crossing is the only land border of Gaza on the outside world. Egypt initially said the crossing passage would be open for four days from Monday to allow in and out movements on humanitarian grounds. Gaza has been besieged by Israel since 2007 and Egypt, over security concerns, has kept the border closed since 2013, only opening the border on rare occasions. Cairo accused Gaza ruler Hamas of sheltering terrorists and of smuggling weapons into the Sinai. The decision to maintain Rafah closed according to Head of the Commission of Crossings and Borders, Hesham Udwan, was motivated by unexpected mayhem in the area. Six Egyptian soldiers were killed on Sunday in an assault by jihadists in North of Sinai. The attackers used Car bombs and mortar shells. Egypt facilitated last week reconciliation between Hamas and rival Fatah based in Israel-controlled West Bank. Gaza where almost 2 million people live, has been declared as an open-air prison with majority living under the poverty line and 44 per cent unemployed. Many UN agencies have described the humanitarian situation in the Strip as catastrophic. Qatari authorities have conducted actions against two members of the royal family, freezing assets of Sheikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Thani and raiding the palace of Sheikh Sultan bin Suhaim Al-Thani, two critics of the countrys Emir. Abdullah bin Ali Al Thani and Sheikh Sultan bin Suhaim Al-Thani are believed to be close to Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Egypt, the four countries which have cut off ties with the tiny gas-rich country over its alleged support for terrorism. Abdullah Ali Thani has seen all his bank accounts seized in a move reported on Sunday. Abdullah Ali Thani has been calling on Emir Tamim to amend ties with the boycotting countries. He was the highest member of the ruling family to have met Saudi authorities to negotiate Qataris participation in this year Hajj and securing the opening of the border crossing between the two countries. Abdullah Ali Thani is the second son of former Qatari emir, Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani who was replaced by Emir Tamims father, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Security forces also last week reportedly raided Sultan bin Suhaim Al-Thanis palace in Doha. UAE-linked media reported that 15 armed men stormed the palace and confiscated around 137 bags and a number of iron boxes containing the documents and holdings of Sheikh Sultan, as well as the large holdings and archives of his father, former Foreign Minister Suhaim bin Hamad Al Thani. Security forces, in an earlier operation, broke into the room of Sultan bin Suhaim Al Thanis mother and seized personal and family pictures, as well as all her jewelry, valuables. According to recent press reports, both men, in addition to Khaled al-Hail, a businessman protected by the UAE, were preparing to announce a government-in-exile. The dissenters pointed out that they refused to see their country becoming a hideout for terrorists, reference made to members of Muslim Brotherhood. The Arab League and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have classified the Islamist organization as a terrorist group. Saudi authorities have arrested since the beginning of the current month some 66 individuals, mostly Saudi citizens, accused of links with terrorist groups. The arrestees include 61 Saudis, one Qatari national, one Yemeni, one Sudanese and one Syrian and one Ethiopian, according to press reports. They have joined thousands of other individuals detained at the prisons of the General Investigation over terrorism related charges. The prisons of the General Investigation currently house 5,305 people including 4,448 Saudis, 3 Qataris, 24 Sudanese, 216 Syrians, 298 Yemenis and 4 Ethiopians. Some are serving their sentence, some are in the process of appealing, and others are pending investigation, the daily Arab News reports. The Saudi kingdom has seen a rise in the number of attacks lately. An attack on a security checkpoint in the Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah left two royal guards dead and three others wounded. The attacker was reportedly killed in the incident. Authorities have also been carrying preventive assaults on terrorist hideouts in a move to foil attacks. At least 276 people have been killed and hundreds have been injured by a single bomb attack in Somalia this weekend, making it the worst terrorist atrocity in the terrorism-stricken nations history. Local media reported that most of the bodies have been burnt beyond recognition and officials feared that the toll would continue to climb. The Saturdays truck bomb targeted a busy street near key ministries in the capital city, Mogadishu. No one had yet claimed responsibility for the attack. However, suspicion fell on the al Qaida-linked al Shabab group, which frequently targets the capital, Mogadishu and steps up attacks on army bases across the south and center of the country. Countries across the world including the United States, Britain, Canada, France, Turkey, the UN and the African Union have unanimously condemned the bombings. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans spokesman was reported as saying that, Turkey will send planes with medical supplies to Somalia and that the wounded would be flown to Turkey for treatment. Previous attacks on the capital this year have killed or wounded at least 771 people, according to data compiled by the Pentagon. At least 11 of these attacks have been assassination attempts against Somali military, intelligence, and government personnel. Two rights organizations, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, on Monday, accused Kenyan police of killing about 33 protesters and injuring hundreds during the protest movements called for by political parties following the August 8 general elections in the East African nation. The two Rights watchdogs issued a 37-page report, detailing the excessive use of force by police, and in some cases other security agents, against protesters and residents in some of the oppositions strongholds in the capital city, Nairobi. Kenyan police spokesperson, Charles Owino, who disputed the findings, said only looters and thugs were killed or injured in the violence. The electoral commission of Kenya had declared outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta the winner of the Aug. 8 vote, with 54 percent of the ballots, to 44 percent for his challenger, the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga a margin of about 1.4 million votes. However, the Kenyan Supreme Court made history by nullifying the election of the incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta, and ordered a new one, in response to complaints about voting irregularities. Last week, Odinga, 72, said he would not participate in a redo of the presidential election. When announcing his withdrawal from the race, Odinga said it was best for him to pull out, considering the interests of the people of Kenya, the region and the world at large. Angry protesters in Togo have set ablaze government buildings and a police station late on Monday night in the countrys second largest city of Sokode, after the arrest of an Imam and opposition figure. The Imam, Alpha Alassane, a spiritual leader in the Muslim-dominated city was arrested by gendarmes for unknown reasons, local media reported. The protesters and followers of the imam have reportedly clashed with the security forces and torched a gendarmerie, a post office and other public buildings in the city. Alpha Alassane is known as adviser of the opposition Pan-African National Party leader Tikpi Atchadam, the man who emerged on the political scene last August and who is pushing for the end of the countrys 50-year ruling dynasty. Protests called by Tikpi Atchadam in August claimed the lives of seven citizens in the same city of Sokode where the Imam was arrested on Monday. Atchadam has been building his support base in the central city since 2014. The protesters are demanding a return to the 1992 Constitution of Togo, which limits presidency terms. President Faure Gnassingbe has been in power since the death in 2005 of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had been at the helm of the country for 38 years. The Ivorian president Alassane Ouattara has started a two-day official visit in Ghana on Monday, to deepen, as stated by Ghanas Presidential office, the already strong relations that exist between the two West African nations, as well as explore other areas of mutually beneficial cooperation. Ghana President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in May this year, made a similar visit in Cote dIvoire. Speaking at a joint press conference at Flagstaff house in the capital city Accra on Monday, President Akufo-Addo has indicated that Ghana is committed to building stronger bonds with Cote dIvoire. President Akufo-Addo commended his Ivorian guest for committing to peaceful resolution of the maritime boundary dispute between the two countries at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). The ITLOS ruling last month favored Ghana, which gained some additional territory after new coordinates for the boundary were established. President Quattara, on his part, thanked President Akufo-Addo and the people of Ghana on how the ruling has been handled and looked forward to the successful implementation of the ruling by the two countries. He called for collaboration between the two countries, noting that both could collaborate in various sectors including agriculture and transport. President Ouattaras visit will highlight by the signing of a bilateral agreement, and the inauguration of a joint commission tasked with implementing the recent judgment passed by the ITLOS. IFC: Azerbaijan needs single standards for mortgaged property evaluation Azerbaijan needs to create single standards for mortgaged property evaluation, Hamid Mammadjanov, a consultant with International Finance Corporation (IFC), told Trend.He said the standards currently used in Azerbaijan are based on old international analogues, adopted back in 2003."International standards have changed many times, and the latest amendments were made in 2017," Mammadjanov said. "Therefore, we offer Azerbaijan a project on creating new evaluation standards."He added that creation of single standards understood by all market participants will make it possible to avoid disagreements as well as minimize risks for market participants."Misunderstandings and disagreements between banks and entrepreneurs are caused by the absence of single standards," Mammadjanov said.Azerbaijan has been cooperating with IFC since 1995. IFC has granted loans worth $473 million to Azerbaijan for implementation of 56 projects. Sooner or later By Messenger Staff NATOs Parliamentary Assembly condemns Russias attempts to intimidate and destabilize its neighbors who try to deepen relations with NATO, the resolution recently adopted by the alliance says.The resolution supports Georgia.According to the document, NATO PA supports Georgias Euro-Atlantic integration expressing deep concern over the occupation and militarization of Georgias territories, condemns facts of violation of fundamental human rights and attempts of destabilization and intimidation of NATO- aspirant countries by Russia, as well as neighboring countries aiming at deepening relationship with NATO.Representatives from the alliance member countries have discussed and voted for the resolution Stability and Security in the Black Sea Region in Bucharest.Georgia and Ukraine "sooner or later" can become member states of NATO, but at present they should focus on reforms, said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.Stoltenberg made this statement at the 63rd annual session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Bucharest, Ukrainian media reported.He said the Alliance is concerned by Russias "military build-up close to our borders."Ukraine and Georgia should focus on reforms. These reforms are important, regardless of whether they become members sooner or later, and regardless of what they think about membership," Stoltenberg said.Georgia knows well that reforms are essential for the state development and that they would play their role even in case Georgia will not become a NATO member state.However, the reality is that we need the appreciation of the reforms from the Alliance and the NATO membership sooner and not later.Only if Georgia is a member of such a strong organization as NATO may Russia stop its aggression.Russia has proved many times that it does what it wants and respects neither dialogue nor agreements on peace. The News in Brief PACE president resigns amid controversy about Syria trip A Council of Europe official resigned on Monday after a controversial visit to Syrias President Bashar al-Assad. Pedro Agramunt announced his resignation as president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) in a letter on Monday. A plenary session in Strasbourg the same day was scheduled to debate a motion for his dismissal, but the debate was called off. In accordance with PACE rules, British conservative politician Sir Roger Gale automatically becomes acting president as the most senior assembly vice president, until the election of a new president at the assemblys next part-session. The motion to dismiss Pedro Agramunt was backed by 158 assembly members. We, the undersigned, consider that the President of the Parliamentary Assembly no longer enjoys the confidence of the Assembly, on the grounds that his behavior seriously harms the reputation of the Parliamentary Assembly and tarnishes its image, the document says. Four out of five Georgian assembly members signed the motion, as well as all members of the Armenian delegation and none of the assembly members representing Azerbaijan. Agramunt caused controversy after he traveled to war-torn Syria in April and met with President Bashar al-Assad. Earlier, human rights activists criticized him for his work as PACE rapporteur on political prisoners in Azerbaijan, accusing him of being close to the regime in that country, and pointed out that did little to highlight the numerous violations of human rights there. The Council of Europe is an inter-governmental organization unrelated to the European Union primarily working with protecting human rights, rule of law and democratic values. It has 47 member countries spanning Europe, Caucasus and Eurasia. (DF watch) Georgian PM, Iranian Labour Minister meet in Tbilisi Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili and Iranian Minister of Labour Ali Rabiei met in Georgian capital of Tbilisi on October 10. Rabiei is paying a visit to Georgia to attend an inter-governmental economic commission session between Georgia and Iran tomorrow. During the meeting, Prime Minister Kvirikashvili and his Iranian colleague discussed a variety of issues including trade-economic co-operation and tourism. Speaking about the ongoing reforms in the country, Kvirikashvili emphasised Georgia is a positive investment environment. The parties positively estimated bilateral economic cooperation between Georgia and Iran and the activities of the joint economic commission. (Agenda.ge) Temperature to drop in Georgia Cold weather is expected in Georgia. Rain and thunderstorm is forecast, and the temperature will drop to 16-21 degrees. As reported by Meteorological Prognosis Center, Svetlana Nioradze has told IPN that cold air masses will cover entire of Georgia on 11 October. Weather will be better on 12-13-14 October, but rain will still continue. We expect bad weather again from October 15, Nioradze has remarked. (IPN) @alextdaugherty Over a dozen hopefuls have filed paperwork to replace retiring Republican Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen in a Miami-based district that national Democrats hope to flip in 2018. But six months after Ros-Lehtinen retired, the declared Democrats are soundly beating the Republicans in the money race. Five Democrats have raised well over six figures in the latest fundraising quarter and a sixth has hauled in over $200,000 since the spring. But zero Republicans have raised anything close to $100,000 in the latest quarter spanning July 1 to September 30. Three Republicans have posted fundraising results that were publicly available on the Federal Election Commission's website on Sunday. Miami-Dade County commissioner Bruno Barreiro hauled in $41,950, former school board member and Miami-Dade mayoral candidate Raquel Regalado raised $15,050 and former Doral council member Bettina Rodriguez Aguilera, who said that aliens took her on a spaceship, raised $4,990. Regalado said in a statement posted to her Facebook page that she suspended her campaign just before Hurricane Irma hit South Florida. Irma made landfall on September 10, about six weeks after Regalado officially announced her bid. "I made this decision knowing full well that all of the other candidates in this 2018 race would continue raising funds despite the challenges that we, our neighbors and fellow Floridians faced," Regalado said. "Rather than call and email my supporters for funds I decided to ask them to set this race aside and help our community recover." Regalado told the Miami Herald that she is fundraising this quarter. "The issue is that I officially became a candidate a week before the hurricane hit and during the hurricane all i did was help people," Rodriguez Aguilera said. "I didnt think that was the moment to really fundraise." Rodriguez Aguilera announced her candidacy about 10 days before Irma made landfall. Barreiro, the only Republican who fundraised in the previous quarter, has just over $187,000 on hand for his campaign as of October 15. He did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A host of other Democrats and Republicans in South Florida suspended fundraising efforts due to Hurricane Irma, including Democrats running for Ros-Lehtinen's seat. Seven Democrats are vying for the partys nomination to the rare open seat: former state Judge Mary Barzee Flores, state Rep. David Richardson of Miami Beach, state Sen. Jose Javier Rodriguez of Miami, Miami Beach Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, University of Miami academic adviser Michael Hepburn, Miami city commissioner Ken Russell and former Knight Foundation director Matt Haggman. All of them except Hepburn have raised over $100,000. In contrast to the race for Ros-Lehtinen's seat, sitting Republican Rep. Carlos Curbelo, who also represents a Democratic-leaning district in South Florida, raised $431,580 during the latest quarter. Miami Republican Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, who represents a more conservative district without a big-name Democratic challenger, raised $199,766 in the latest quarter. Michael-in-Norfolk disclaims any and all responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, reliability, operability, or availability of information or material displayed on this site and does not claim credit for any images or articles featured on this site, unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to it's respectful owners. Information on this site may contain errors or inaccuracies, and Michael-in-Norfolk does not make warranty as to the correctness or reliability of the site's content. If you own rights to any of the images or articles, and do not wish them to appear on this site, please contact Michael-in-Norfolk via e-mail and they will be promptly removed. Michael-in-Norfolk contains links to other Internet sites. These links are provided solely as a convenience and are not endorsements of any products or services in such sites, and no information or content in such site has been endorsed or approved by this blog. iStock/Thinkstock(SAN ANTONIO) -- A man accused of transporting undocumented immigrants in a brutally hot tractor-trailer, resulting in the deaths of 10 people, has pleaded guilty to the federal charges against him. James Matthew Bradley Jr., 61, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to transport aliens resulting in death and one count of transporting aliens resulting in death, according to a press release from the Department of Justice. The truck was discovered early July 23 in a Walmart parking lot in San Antonio, Texas, by firefighters and police after a Walmart employee called late Saturday for a welfare check when someone asked the employee for water, officials said. Eight people were found dead inside the tractor-trailer. Two additional people died later. Many experienced heat stroke and dehydration, officials said. The tractor-trailer contained a total of 39 people but was believed to have held between 70 and 180 to 200 people during transport, according to the DOJ press release. Conditions inside the tractor-trailer were "horrific," according to officials. One undocumented immigrant who survived the ordeal told investigators that the driver ignored their banging from inside the container as they took turns breathing through a hole in the wall, according to a criminal complaint. Some people had trouble breathing and passed out, the man said. Bradley initially told an officer at the scene that he was unaware of the tractor-trailer's contents, according to the criminal complaint. Bradley told the officer "after he parked his tractor-trailer he exited the vehicle to urinate when he heard movement in the trailer. Bradley said he then went to the rear of the trailer and opened the door. Bradley stated he tried to administer aid to the occupants," according to the complaint. Temperatures inside the tractor-trailer are estimated to have reached over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, according to officials. Todays admission of guilt by Mr. Bradley helps to close the door on one of the conspirators responsible for causing the tragic loss of life and wreaking havoc on those who survived this horrific incident, Shane M. Folden, special agent in charge, Homeland Security Investigation, San Antonio, said in a statement. This case is a glaring reminder that alien smugglers are driven by greed and have little regard for the health and well-being of their human cargo, which can prove to be a deadly combination. HSI is committed to aggressively targeting human smugglers and smuggling organizations, who continually victimize people for profit. Bradley faces up to life in federal prison, according to the press release. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 22. Another man charged in connection with the smuggling operation, 47year-old Pedro Silva Segura, an undocumented immigrant, faces a number of counts, including one count of conspiracy to transport and harbor undocumented aliens for financial gain resulting in death, one count of conspiracy to transport and harbor undocumented aliens for financial gain resulting in serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, and more. Silva Segura was arrested in Laredo, Texas, and is awaiting transfer to San Antonio. He has not yet entered a plea. Attorneys for Bradley did not immediately comment on the guilty pleas. Copyright 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. A 61-year-old Wyoming man was killed by a falling tree near Helmville earlier this month, according to records released by the Powell County coroner. Records released Tuesday show Berwyn Conroy of Gillette, Wyoming, was injured in the accident at 1:46 p.m. Oct. 7 on Ogden Mountain, and he died in an ambulance near Avon at 3:13 p.m. the same day. The cause of death is listed as blunt force trauma. Coroner Lee Jewell declined to comment on the circumstances surrounding the incident. After an expensive wildfire season and lower than expected revenues, Montanas leadership is faced with hard choices on how to keep our state operating. After learning that the state's ending fund balance for fiscal year 2019 would be low enough to trigger further budget reductions, state leaders now have two choices: accept nearly 10 percent cuts to every state agency, or have a special session and attempt to pass revenue-generating legislation to defray some of the cuts. For the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), these cuts, on top of the 2017 legislative session cuts, would be crippling. One of the proposals is to close 19 offices of public assistance (OPA), more than half of our states 37 offices. OPAs serve as important community resources, providing in-person assistance for families and individuals applying for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Medicaid. The 19 offices affected all serve rural Montana, where services are already scarce: Big Timber, Chinook, Choteau, Columbus, Conrad, Cut Bank, Deer Lodge, Dillon, Forsyth, Fort Benton, Glendive, Livingston, Malta, Plentywood, Red Lodge, Roundup, Shelby, Sidney and Thompson Falls. Despite being rural communities, these offices serve a significant number of Montanans, with nearly 19,500 SNAP participants in these counties alone. We are gravely concerned by the proposed office closures, as this cut would drastically reduce SNAP access in our rural counties. Residents will lose the ability to apply in person or have direct contact with a caseworker. It would also overburden our remaining offices, where caseworkers already struggle to keep up with caseloads. The option for in-person assistance is especially important in rural Montana and cannot be undervalued for our seniors, those without a computer or internet access, or for anyone who wants the option to go to a local office. For example, a senior living in Crane who wanted to go into an office to apply for SNAP would need to go 102 miles to Wolf Point or 115 miles to Miles City to visit an OPA, as the local Sidney office would be closing. Montana has taken steps to reduce the need to visit local offices in recent years, yet they remain a critical access point. The state offers a Public Assistance Helpline where residents can call for information or receive help applying for programs. However, the assistance line is already overwhelmed, which often means long and frustrating wait times. Montana does offer an online application for SNAP, TANF and Medicaid, which is an important resource for many families, but is not always practical for those without a computer or limited internet access or who are uncomfortable on the computer. Here at the Montana Food Bank Network, we offer an additional SNAP assistance line, helping determine eligibility and offering application assistance by phone. However, this line is staffed by just one outreach worker who is able to help people apply but cannot fulfill the many other responsibilities of an OPA caseworker. The services that our offices of public assistance administer are invaluable to Montana seniors, low-income residents and rural communities. Closing 19 of our states OPAs would severely affect the ability of rural Montanans to receive critical food, medical and other assistance. DPPHS cannot withstand such drastic cuts and still meet the daily needs of ordinary Montanans. We urge Gov. Steve Bullock and the Legislature to come together in a special session, and work to find a balanced solution that does not leave rural Montana bearing the brunt of this budget crisis. Police reports BIG KNIFE Police booked Ryan Sheehan, 25, of Butte on the 700 block of West Galena Street at about 2 a.m. Sunday after a woman told them she had escaped from Sheehan and that he might be armed with a large knife. According to police, Sheehan tackled the victim in the residence and wouldnt let her leave. When he got up to get the knife, she ran. Police booked Sheehan on misdemeanor partner- family member assault. CLOTHING STREWN Police arrested Jody Menard, 50, of Butte at about 1 a.m. Monday on the 500 block of Silver Street for misdemeanor partner-family member assault. Police said the complainant came home to find her dresser tipped over and her clothes strewn in the living room. She said Menard lunged at her when she entered the bedroom. STALKING ARREST An officer stopped Benny Sandoval, 38, of Butte driving on the 3500 block of Warren Avenue at 12:30 a.m. Saturday because the officer knew Sandoval had an outstanding warrant. He was booked without incident for an outstanding felony warrant for stalking. Bond is set at $15,000. INTENT TO SELL Police said they recovered over $200 when they booked Amanda Laverdure, 36, of Butte at 2 p.m. Friday at Montana and Boardman for a traffic stop. Probation and parole stopped Laverdure to search her and allegedly located two grams of methamphetamine, three grams of heroin, several pills, syringes, a glass pipe, a scale, and several small plastic baggies. She was booked on four felonies: possession with intent to sell, use of property subject for forfeiture, and two counts of possession of dangerous drugs. Police also booked her on four misdemeanors: operating with expired plates, criminal contempt, possession of drug paraphernalia, and an out-of-jurisdiction warrant. ANOTHER DRUG ARREST Police arrested Katrina Mays, 28, homeless, for possession of dangerous drugs, a felony, at the convenience store at Montana and Platinum at about 12:30 p.m. Friday. Officers arrived to assist probation and parole officers in searching Mays. They said they found four hydrocodone pills, a couple of syringes, a scale, and a spoon. She was also booked for possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor, and probation violation, a felony. SIMPLE ASSAULT Police booked Zachary Gustafson, 27, of Butte for simple assault, a misdemeanor, at 3:45 a.m. Monday on the 500 block of South Main Street. Police, called to a disturbance at 2:44 a.m., said they found a female and male victim. When police arrived, Gustafson fled on foot, according to police. Officers said they pursued Gustafson but lost him on the 700 block of South Dakota Street. Gustafson returned to the residence on the 500 block of South Main, where police captured him. Officers also booked him on obstructing a peace officer, resisting arrest, and partner-family member assault, all misdemeanors, and a parole violation, a felony. FAILURE TO DISPERSE Police were called to the Acoma Lounge, 60 E. Broadway St., at about 8:30 p.m. Sunday because Joseph Estenson, 33, of Helena was allegedly trying to fight several people. When police asked Estenson to leave, they said he refused. When police handcuffed him for a misdemeanor count of failure to disperse, Estenson sat down and had to be carried out, according to police. OUTSTANDING WARRANTS Gonzalo Aguilar, 32, and Emilio Lopez, 24, both of Butte, forced entry into a residence on the 2100 block of Walnut Street at 2:45 a.m. Monday, police said. But when police arrived, the homeowner didnt want to press charges, according to police. However, officers discovered that Aguilar was wanted on two misdemeanor counts of criminal contempt and Lopez was wanted on one misdemeanor count of criminal contempt. CALLER BOOKED Bruce Meyer, 48, of Butte called dispatch for a medical emergency for a person who was not well on the 200 block of West Park Street. When officers arrived, they found that Meyers had a misdemeanor count of criminal contempt warrant for his arrest. The ill person was transported to St. James Healthcare, and Meyer was booked. CREDIT CARD THEFT Police booked Timothy Erdley, 52, of Butte at 1 a.m. Friday in Rocker for a theft reported at the Butte Country Club on Oct. 6 involving stolen credit cards. The case remains under investigation, and details were not available from police on Monday. FELONY WARRANT Police arrested Howard Galinkin, 48, of Butte on the 1900 block of Gaylord Street at 5 p.m. Sunday for an outstanding felony warrant for deceptive practice. Police were dispatched on a complaint of harassment by high school students when they found Galinkin inside the residence. SUSPICIOUS PERSON Police arrested Jacob Hockenberry, 28, homeless, when a report came in at 9:30 a.m. Sunday of a suspicious person at Alabama and Park. Police found he had an outstanding criminal contempt warrant. CRIMINAL TRESPASS Guyles Reichmand, 57, of Butte allegedly threw a chair at a television in an apartment on the first block of West Broadway Street at 6:30 p.m. Saturday. Reichmand wasnt supposed to be in the building, according to police. Police booked him for criminal trespass, a misdemeanor. Butte-Silver Bow Planning Director Jon Sesso is calling foul on the Department of Environmental Quality's remediation work at the Montana Pole Plant site, south of Silver Bow Creek. Sesso will present a letter to the Council of Commission Wednesday evening that calls DEQ's efforts to tell the public over the last two years that one of the contaminants dioxin did not break down in the soil at the plant site "a marked failure." The council is expected to vote on the letter Wednesday. It's addressed to Tom Livers, DEQ director, and Joe Vranka, Environmental Protection Agency Montana Superfund director. DEQ spokesperson Karen Ogden said DEQ personnel have not seen the letter, so the agency cannot comment. DEQ is the lead agency on the pole plant cleanup, which is a separate Superfund site from the Butte Hill. Sesso's letter points to the time the county and the state's Natural Resource Damage Program spent last year debating the future location of the county's vehicle and maintenance shops. The county understood the site as being available for industrial use. Now, the county learned at recent public meetings held by DEQ, that the site will "restrict industrial use," according to Sesso's letter. The reason is "mostly" because the dioxin, a carcinogen, is still present in the soil, according to the letter. "The community should have been informed of agency deliberations long before Butte-Silver Bow and the state's own Natural Resource Damage Program spent valuable time and resources to hold public land use planning workshops and perform other evaluations to determine whether the site could be used for the county shops," Sesso states in the letter. The pole plant site treated wood products for decades until it closed in the 1980s. The site, around 40 acres, is wedged between Mount Moriah Cemetery and Interstate 15-90, west of Montana Street. When DEQ began the treatment of encouraging naturally occurring microbes to eat away at the contamination in the 1990s, the worst leftover contamination was PCPs. Considered the most dangerous of the contaminants at the site, PCPs responded to the treatment, DEQ says. Other contaminants from the former wood processing treatment did as well. Only the dioxin didn't break down. Sesso calls the partially successful treatment of the hazardous waste "utterly disappointing." Because the dioxin didn't break down, DEQ is planning to bury the "dirty dirt" containing the dioxin beneath an engineered protective cap. This means it will be covered by many layers, including gravel, clean soil, a membrane, a grading layer, and an intermediate cover layer, to protect anyone who comes into contact with the site. DEQ has suggested the capped area could become some sort of open space or recreational area. But Sesso wants the agencies to consider alternatives to placing the dioxin under an engineered cap. He also wants BSB staff to be "included in ongoing or future design and decision-making meetings." "If the dioxin cannot be 're-treated' and remediated to meet standards, and a protective cap is absolutely necessary B-SB would ask the agencies to consider enlarging the footprint of the capped area and thus allowing for less land use restrictions on the site," the letter states. EPA said it will coordinate a response to any future communication with DEQ. Neither DEQ nor EPA will have representatives attending Wednesday's council meeting. Work begins in Buttes amorphous West Side Soils section of Superfund next summer, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. West Side Soils is vaguely considered to be both to the west of Buttes Uptown, as well as in the Flat, which is southeast of Uptown. The work to investigate the extent of contamination in West Side Soils will get going in June 2018, EPA officials said via an email to The Montana Standard earlier this week. An internal report last month criticized the lack of adequate staffing on Superfund sites across the nation and specifically pointed to Buttes West Side Soils. The report said that because the area had never been investigated, the potential health impacts from the contamination are unknown. The report, produced by EPAs Office of the Inspector General, cited the lack of staffing to handle the workload for the nations more than 1,000 Superfund sites. Even as EPA begins to prepare to investigate the contamination in West Side Soils 34 years after declaring Butte and Silver Bow Creek a Superfund site EPA doesnt yet have a project manager assigned to the task. EPA says a project manager will be named before the investigation begins next summer. Currently, Nikia Greene oversees most of the Silver Bow Creek/Butte Superfund site an area of about 30 miles that includes seven separate sections. Other questions, such as the boundaries of West Side Soils, as well as who the responsible party or parties are, are also questions EPA cant answer after 34 years of declaring Butte and Silver Bow Creek a Superfund site. That could begin to change now that EPA is getting going on the work. But the investigation is a long process, retired DEQ project manager Joe Griffin told The Standard Tuesday. "It varies by how complex it is," Griffin said. EPA's investigation on the Butte Hill took close to 13 years, Griffin said. While the investigative work is ongoing, EPA will begin reviewing historical documents and launch into a separate inquiry into finding and naming the responsible parties. Atlantic Richfield is the responsible party for the rest of the Silver Bow Creek/Butte Superfund site, as well as for Anaconda's Superfund site west of Butte. The work will involve sampling soil, ground water and the area's creeks. EPA said Blacktail Creek east of the Lexington Avenue bridge the current boundary for the Butte Hill section of Buttes Superfund may get sampled. But until a work plan is in place, EPA cant confirm that. The agency is also now considering extending the Residential Metals Abatement Program known by its acronym RMAP into West Side Soils. Funded by Atlantic Richfield, the program allows the county to test and clean residents attics and yards on the Butte Hill. If a homeowner living outside of the Butte Hill boundary is planning to remodel a home, he or she can contact the county and get the attic tested. If the attic is hot meaning lead or arsenic is present and exceeds the cleanup standards for Butte then the county will remove the heavy metals from the homeowners attic. But for people who live in West Side Soils, the county cant test the soil to see if heavy metals are in their yards. EPA provided no time line as to when the agency will make a decision on the possibility of expanding the metal abatement program in West Side Soils. EPA will seek access agreements for soil sampling. The Flat is one of the more heavily populated areas of Butte. There are also private property owners to the west of the Butte Hill. DEQ confirmed EPA is expected to begin the work but said that until that commences, DEQ will not name their own site manager to the project. DEQ works as the support agency to EPA cleanup oversight on Buttes Superfund. Butte-Silver Bow Commissioner Jim Fisher submitted a request to B-SB Chief Executive Dave Palmer last week to reach out to ranking representatives of EPA to appear before the council to answer questions on West Side Soils. Fishers memo expresses concern that EPA has been nonresponsive, on West Side Soils. We deserve an explanation and apparently need to demand a response, his memo states. The commission will consider Fisher's request at Wednesday's Council of Commission meeting. Thanks to support from the Butte-Silver Bow Economic Mill Levy Fund, Mainstreet Uptown Butte is offering a chance for a local entrepreneur who would like to start a business in the Heart of Butte business district. "This is an extension of our support of the Butte farmers market and Artwalks over the past 10 years," said George Everett, executive director of Mainstreet Uptown Butte. "The goal with this project, however, is to have a viable business at the end of the project where we have previously had a long-vacant storefront space." There are guidelines and an application process for interested entrepreneurs. For instance, new restaurants and antique stores are not eligible. Business owners cannot apply to move an existing business from another part of Butte. "Rather than look outside of our city limits for entrepreneurs, we are looking for new business ideas and models from within the community where people have deep roots and a high chance for success and that complement existing businesses in the area." Mainstreet will work with property owners to secure retail space. The priority is that the business will have a high likelihood of continuing on their own and then be firmly established. "We hope that this project will be an effective way to increase foot traffic in the neighborhood," said Everett. "It will in no way diminish our support or assistance to existing businesses which, as always, are our top priority." Mainstreet Uptown Butte is taking applications for the project and will be reviewed by a committee to select a winning business plan or support the move for a home-based business into a vacant storefront in Uptown Butte. For details, including application and guidelines, contact Mainstreet Uptown Butte by email at geverett@montana.com or call 406-565-2249. When people discover I am a birder, I often get questions about my opinions on the Berkeley Pit and migrating waterfowl. I have written this Montana Birding column to let you know what has transpired since the snow goose incident (where thousands died after landing on the pit's toxic waters) last November. Montana Resources and Atlantic Richfield Company are committed to developing better protocols and practices to reduce/eliminate bird mortalities in the Berkeley Pit. To that effort, they contacted Montana Tech biology professor Stella Capoccia to form a migratory waterfowl mitigation advisory board. I am one of six members on that board, along with another dozen or so agency personnel from the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks; Environmental Protection Agency; Montana Resources; Atlantic Richfield; Montana Audubon; and avian consultants who advise us before decisions are made. Our recommendations are not binding on Montana Resources and Atlantic Richfield, but those organizations take our considered opinion seriously and have implemented most all of our recommendations. Our advisory board has two main objectives: first to minimize insofar as is practical the contact of waterfowl with waters of the Berkeley Pit and, second, to implement observation and hazing programs that are demonstrated and effective at getting waterfowl off the water as soon as possible. It would be ideal to keep birds off the pit water, but in many cases, migratory birds fly at night and are not observed until morning. Because of that, we have been focusing on getting birds off the pit waters, when and if it occurs, while researching methods to prevent landings in the pit. As you can imagine, we have had a variety of ideas suggested to us to keep birds from landing. We have taken every suggestion seriously. Some are cost prohibitive such as covering the waters of the pit with plastic balls. That turned out to be a $76.5-million idea with the unintended consequence of reducing evaporation from that waters surface, which is needed to manage current water levels. It would take an estimated 240,000,000 balls and four years to produce them. Others have suggested a net, but the walls are not stable enough to support the cabling that would be required to support a net. Another suggestion was to color the water, but there is little research to suggest which color to use or if all waterfowl species respond to the same color in the same way. We also have no idea how much coloring it would take or how it would react with the water of the pit. PRIMARY PREVENTION METHOD What we have settled on as our primary prevention method is good communication between Montana Resources and other wildlife refuges in Montana and Canada for the fall and refuges south of us in the spring. This will allow MR to know that waterfowl are coming so they can be better prepared than they were last November. We are also using bird experts in the Upper Clark Fork, Helena Valley, and the Great Falls/Freezout area who monitor local waters, wildlife management areas, and refuges for migrating species. Thousands of migratory birds pass through the Upper Clark Fork River Basin on their way south in the fall, and preliminary data suggests that species seen at the Warm Springs WMA are a good indicator of the number and species that pass through Butte and could potentially land on the pit. We have also employed the expertise of a meteorologist, who provides information about weather patterns that might bring waterfowl into the Upper Clark Fork River Basin and potentially into the Berkeley Pit days ahead of an event. We have developed a bird guide with the 42 most likely occurring species and trained Montana Resource personnel on the use of the guide. We are hoping that if MR personnel, who monitor the pit, can identify the waterfowl that land by species, we can then develop hazing protocols that are specific and effective for that species. The pit waters are observed every hour for waterfowl by MR employees during the migration season as well as mornings and evenings by a graduate student from Montana Tech. If an event of more than 250 birds is observed, I then go to the pit and make sure that we have properly identified the species involved. SEPT. 22 EVENT So far this fall, we have had one event in which nearly 1,200 waterfowl landed on the Berkeley Pit. They were found Friday morning, Sept. 22. In the days before this event, we had a much-needed rain/snow storm pattern that put out many of Montanas fires and triggered migration of these waterfowl. I was able to identify eight species in the pit in the Sept. 22 event. Six hundred and fifty were American coots, 360 ruddy ducks, 150 of two grebe species, and less than 20 individuals each of four duck species. Around 9:30 a.m., MR fired shots at the ducks, and they took flight and quickly returned to the water some 50 yards away. From that experience we concluded that the birds were fatigued and we would only stress them more if we continued to haze them. We especially did not want to haze the American coots or the grebes, as they respond by diving, which would increase exposure to the pit water. Thus the waterfowl were allowed to rest until near dark. At that time we used a remote controlled fixed wing (100-inch wingspan) plane and flew over the waterfowl with disappointing results. I had expected them to fly, and they did not. What did work was to use lasers and move the beams quickly over the rafts of birds. The lasers seemed to agitate the rested birds, and they began to lift off the water. This was followed by pyrotechnics that exploded into several light flashes and loud noises over the birds. We were not able to evaluate the results as well as we wanted due to darkness, but we felt the majority of waterfowl lifted off the pit. The next morning, Saturday, less than 150 birds were present, and due to the species present and numbers, we suspected they were new birds that arrived overnight and not the birds from the previous day. On the second evening, we again used lasers and pyrotechnics, and on Sunday morning, no waterfowl were in the pit. We were successful in getting all of the waterfowl out of the pit over a two-day period, with no apparent mortalities. We strongly suspect that we were able to get waterfowl off the pit in less than 24 hours, if the waterfowl on the second morning were new birds. FATIGUED WATERFOWL So what has MR, Atlantic Richfield, and the advisory board learned so far? Fatigued waterfowl need to be given some time to rest before hazing efforts are effective. We suspect that different species need different hazing protocols. We also know that lasers and pyrotechnics used together seem to be effective and that weather plays a large role in when birds migrate and if they will land in the pit. Will there be other events this fall? In my opinion, most likely. Will we be as successful as we were in this first event? We hope so, but there are no guarantees. But rest assured that we on the advisory council, Montana Resources, and Atlantic Richfield are working hard to preserve good-paying mining jobs and protect the waterfowl that migrate through the Upper Clark Fork River Basin. We are still in the preliminary stages of preventing birds from landing and have purchased equipment that shows promise, but that equipment has not been adequately tested. We live in a wonderful state that has a combination of mining, agriculture, and recreational resources. As stewards of this state, we must balance our resources and our environmental concerns. With hard work and a goal to have all of these entities be healthy in Montana, we look forward to solving the problems created by the Berkeley Pit for migratory waterfowl species. I hope that you have found this article informative and reassuring. In the future, as we test new protocols and preventive methods, I will inform you again on the status of migratory waterfowl species and the Berkeley Pit waters. Eight brothers of the LaTray family served in the U.S. Armed Services. Only one survives and he is proud of the family's contribution to the nation. Memorial fun run, walk set Oct. 29 The Light Up Mariah 5k Fun Run and Memorial Walk will commemorate the 10th anniversary of the drunk driving accident that took the life of 14-year-old Mariah McCarthy as she walked home on Oct. 28, 2007. The event will be held Sunday, Oct. 29, at the Butte Country Club, 3400 Elizabeth Warren Ave. Participants can register from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at Leo McCarthy State Farm Insurance, 15 Discovery Drive. Race day registration closes at 9:30. The cost is $15 for kids and $25 for adults. All funds raised go directly to the Mariah Daye McCarthy Scholarship Foundation. Details: Jenna McCarthy, 406-490-8432 or Eddi Walker, 406-490-1233. Folk Festival planned for July 13-15 The eighth annual Montana Folk Festival is set for July 13-15, 2018. Butte-Silver Bow County has made a commitment to sign on for another three years as a co-producer of the event, according to a news release. "Now, the serious work of assembling a roster of talent that can top this past summer's lineup and to start putting together the sponsorships that will ensure its success begins in earnest," said George Everett, executive director of Mainstreet Uptown Butte, the lead organizer of the festival since 2008. Everett said festival officials have reduced the annual cost of the event since its days as the National Folk Festival by about half a million dollars by taking on more of the heavy lifting. Still, we have to raise about $250,000 of the $650,000 needed to produce this event, he said. Festival officials have started a new gofundme.com campaign for the 2018 festival to accept contributions from supporters at www.gofundme.com/mff18. Everett said the festival returns about $25 to our community and state for every $1 invested to produce the event. For details, visit www.montanafolkfestival.com or on Facebook at mtfolkfest. Joe McBride named best speaker Top O The Mornin Toastmasters weekly winners included Joe McBride, best speaker, and Zachary Beveridge, best topic respondent. The next meeting will be held at 6:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 23, at Perkins. NOTICE: TO BE CLEAR: WE HAVE OUTLINED UNDER OUR RECORD MAINTENANCE POLICY WHAT WE BELIEVE TO BE A FAIR PROCESS FOR ALL. SIMPLY PUT: IF THE COURT SAW FIT TO EXPUNGE YOUR RECORD,SO WILL WE, FREE OF CHARGE. ARRESTS DO NOT IMPLY GUILT AND CRIMINAL CHARGES ARE MERELY ACCUSATIONS,EVERYONE IS PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW AND CONVICTED. FCRA DISCLAIMER: MUGSHOTS.COM DOES NOT PROVIDE CONSUMER REPORTS AND IS NOT A CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCY. OUR DATABASE CANNOT BE USED TO MAKE DECISIONS ABOUT CONSUMER CREDIT, EMPLOYMENT, INSURANCE, TENANT SCREENING, OR ANY OTHER PURPOSES THAT WOULD REQUIRE FCRA COMPLIANCE. MUGSHOTS.COM PARTICIPATES IN AFFILIATE PROGRAMS WITH VARIOUS COMPANIES. 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MOST OF, IF NOT ALL MUGSHOT LAWS WERE CRAFTED TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC FROM FEES FOR REMOVAL OF ONLINE MUGSHOTS AND TO FURTHER PROTECT THE PRESS FROM THOSE VERY SAME "MUGSHOT LAWS".WE DO NOT ACCEPT PAYMENT FOR REMOVAL OF ARREST INFORMATION AND/OR BOOKING PHOTOGRAPHS. MORE... St. Landry Parish, LA - St. Landry Sheriff's deputies have arrested a woman for allegedly having sex with a minor - again - and arrested the boy's mother for failing to report that he was with the woman for a week. Lainnie Benoit, 33, was arrested in September and accused of having sex with the 16-year-old boy, and told to stay away from him. On Sunday, deputies learned the boy allegedly had been at her home for more than a week, a spokesman said. Her bond was set at $7,500. After an investigation, they also arrested the boy's mother, a 36-year-old woman from Breaux Bridge, and accused her of failing to report that the boy was at Benoit's Port Barre home. KATC does not identify the victims of sexual offenses, and naming the mother would identify the child. The investigation began on Sunday after a witness called to say that the boy's mother asked for help in getting the boy out of Benoit's home. Detectives interviewed the boy, who allegedly stated he was staying at Benoit's home for a week and was having sexual intercourse with Benoit. The boy allegedly told detectives that his mother who knew what he was doing and was not attending school. Detectives interviewed the mother, who allegedly admitted her son was at Benoit's home for a week and was not attending school. Detectives then interviewed Benoit at the St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office. Benoit denied having the juvenile at her home and allegedly said when she returned home on Sunday, she found the juvenile sitting on her front porch crying. Benoit allegedly said she told the boy to go get his clothes and leave. Detectives then interviewed Benoits underage children who allegedly said their mother stayed in her bedroom all week and only came out to cook dinner. One of Benoits children stated they heard the juvenile in Benoits bedroom on October 11. "Parents will be charged if evidence is uncovered that they are withholding information or allowing their children to commit crimes," said Sheriff Bobby Guidroz. "As for Benoit, my office will continue to arrest anyone who defies court orders and who continues to prey on our youth by having inappropriate sexual relations with them." 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 [] These companies are making donations to the state wildfire relief fund: --Ford Fund will donate $100,000 to the American Red Cross and match an additional $25,000 in employee contributions. Ford Fund is also joining Northern California Ford Dealers and collectively giving $50,000 to local non-profits supporting recovery work. Fords potential donation could reach $200,000 for wildfire relief efforts in California. Firefighters from as far away as Australia are still battling the wildfires and disaster relief efforts continue to unfold. Ford Fund is working with partners to determine how volunteering and other support can be provided to people in the devastated areas. --Rabobank N.A. is donating $50,000 to the American Red Cross California Wildfires fund to help meet the need for recovery assistance in numerous communities. The funds will assist the Red Cross continued efforts to provide lodging, meals, health care and other essential services for impacted residents. The toll of this months devastating wildfires is seemingly immeasurable, said Mark Borrecco, CEO of Rabobank, N.A. On many levels, our bank and employees are committed to helping the communities we serve get through this challenging time, and thrive once again. Taking other supportive actions, the bank announced last week it is waiving certain fees including fees for cash withdrawals from ATMs owned and operated by other banks, and checking account overdraft fees from Oct. 7 to 21 for customers in five wildfire-stricken communities. The temporary fee waivers apply to accounts based at Rabobanks Magalia, Napa, Paradise, Santa Rosa and Sonoma branches. --Emeryville-based Clif Bar has committed $1 million to wildfire recovery efforts throughout the affected North Bay communities. The support will consist of a combination of energy bars and direct funds, with tens of thousands of energy bars having been donated already. Additionally, the company said its volunteers have pledged 2,080 hours to help on the ground once the area is safe -- the equivalent of one full-time working person for a year. Napa Valley College closed its fire evacuation center at noon Monday now that residents of Calistoga and other areas are able to return to their homes, the college announced. Also, the shelter at American Canyon High School closed at 4 p.m. Monday, leaving just the shelter at CrossWalk Church in Napa in operation. The college will remain closed for classes, student services, and events through Sunday, Oct. 22. Napa Valley College staff, faculty, and administrators will return to work on this Thursday and Friday to gather and develop plans for the remainder of the semester. The college plans to resume classes, services, and events on Monday, Oct. 23. Napa police arrested two adults and two juveniles on suspicion of robbing a CVS pharmacy Monday. Three of the four suspects entered the CVS pharmacy at 291 S. Coombs St. around 2:50 p.m., demanded prescription medications and got into a vehicle driven by a fourth suspect, police said. Witnesses gave police a description of the vehicle and officers located it driving south on state Highway 221/29. The occupants of the vehicle threw medications from the vehicle before the driver stopped, police said. Police arrested Dwayne Miller, 21, and Jadon Harrell, 18, of Sacramento, as well as a 17-year-old boy from Rancho Cordova and a 16-year-old boy from Sacramento, on suspicion of robbery, conspiracy and destruction of evidence. Police are investigating whether the four suspects also robbed a CVS pharmacy at 1558 Trancas St. around 6:50 p.m. last Wednesday. Three suspects jumped the counter and demanded prescription medication, police said. They fled with thousands of dollars worth of medication and were not apprehended. That gnashing sound you hear are the political gears shifting in response to Dianne Feinsteins announcement after months of delay that shell seek another U.S. Senate term next year. I am running for reelection to the Senate, Feinstein declared on Twitter last week. Lots more to do: ending gun violence, combating climate change, access to healthcare. Im all in! All in? Maybe, but clearly she agonized for months over whether, at 84 and with her husband, wealthy investor Richard Blum, in poor health, she really wanted another campaign and another six years in a Republican-controlled Senate. Democratic Party leaders were urging her to run. The party has three dozen Senate seats up next year and will be stretched thin to defend those in red states. They didnt want an all-out contest in California that would keep her seat in Democratic hands, but soak up many millions of campaign dollars. However, some leading Democratic politicians were, albeit secretly, hoping Feinstein would, after a quarter-century in the Senate, hang it up and give them a shot at a potential steppingstone to the White House. After all, Kamala Harris was being touted as presidential material even before she had adjusted her chair on the Senate floor. Now ambitious, relatively young politicians must decide whether to continue waiting for another opening, elbow into the already crowded field for the governorship or gamble on challenging Feinstein. Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon's situation is particularly dicey because hell be forced out of the Legislature next year by term limits and doesnt have an office to occupy while he waits for another opening. So he's already said he will challenge Feinstein. Feinsteins overall standing among California voters remains fairly high a 50 percent approval rating in an early September Berkeley IGS Poll but that was down from 59 percent in March, dropping her below Harris. And a recent Public Policy Institute of California poll found that half of voters said she should retire. Feinsteins falloff reflects mounting criticism from the Democratic Partys left wing that shes been too moderate and too easy on President Donald Trump, and a generational divide. Her support among under-40 voters in the Berkeley IGS Poll was well under 50 percent. Feinsteins re-election announcement sparks this question: if, as likely, Feinstein does win another six-year term next year, will she continue until 2024, when she will be 91? One theory bouncing around in political circles is that she reluctantly agreed to run again but is likely to retire sometime after winning, touching off a feeding frenzy for an appointment by the next governor, whoever that might be. Who would be likely to get such a plum? Would it be one of those senators-in-waiting who had hoped Feinstein would retire? Could it be Gov. Jerry Brown, who could finally take his act to Washington after losing three bids for the White House and one for the Senate himself? Or could it be the next governor, making a deal with the lieutenant governor to shift to the Senate and thus allowing No. 2 to move up to No. 1? Maybe we should be paying more attention to whos running for lieutenant governor next year than the office normally deserves. Those gears are gnashing. Just as his critics warned, President Trump is turning out to be unfit for his job, perhaps dangerously so. That's a harsh judgment, but it's no longer coming from the president's opponents. It's coming from leading members of his own party. "We could be heading toward World War III with the kind of comments he's making," the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Bob Corker, said last week. Corker, who endorsed Trump during the presidential campaign, was only saying in public what other GOP figures have said in private. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson reportedly called his boss a "moron." Others have used similar language off the record. So it's not surprising that speculation has renewed that Congress might try to remove Trump from office before his term ends. According to one report, former White House advisor Steve Bannon even warned Trump that he risks being fired under the 25th Amendment to the Constitution. "What's that?" the president purportedly replied. If you complain about winter to anyone not living in SoCal, you're sure to be met with eye rolls and the world's tiniest violin. But you're among friends here, so we'll share a little secret. Like Trump, most Americans are more familiar with the law of impeachment, under which Congress can remove a president -- after long debate and a formal trial -- for "high crimes and misdemeanors." To some Trump critics, the 25th Amendment looks more promising. But that's wishful thinking. "It's easier to impeach than invoke the 25th Amendment," the president of the National Constitution Center, Jeffrey Rosen, told me last week. That helps explain why no president's opponents have even tried to use the measure before. Ratified in 1967, the amendment provides a constitutional solution if a president is incapacitated by injury or illness. It was drafted after the assassination of President Kennedy in 1963, when members of Congress realized that an injured president in a coma would still be the only official empowered to command the nation's nuclear arsenal. Section 4 of the amendment provides that if the vice president and a majority of the Cabinet decide that the president is "unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office," they can notify Congress that the vice president is taking over. If the president objects, Congress can vote on the question. A two-thirds majority in each house is required to remove the president from office. There are two reasons that mechanism isn't likely to be used against Trump. The substantive reason is that the amendment was drafted with medical incapacity in mind, not general unfitness for office. "If you read the debates ... unpopularity is not included, poor judgment, incompetence, laziness, or impeachable conduct -- none of that," John D. Feerick, a professor at Fordham Law School who helped draft the amendment, said recently. It would be up to the vice president, the Cabinet and Congress to decide whether the president was "unable" to do his job, but unless the evidence of his incapacity was overwhelming, they'd be touching off a constitutional crisis -- and risking their political futures as well. The procedural obstacles are even more immediate. The amendment is deliberately difficult to use. The first step is for the vice president and the Cabinet to decide the president needs to go -- but they all got their jobs when Trump appointed them, remember? And winning a two-thirds majority in each house of Congress is a virtually insuperable obstacle -- at least as long as at least one house has a Republican majority. "Any action to remove a president is politically traumatic," congressional scholar Norman J. Ornstein said. "Any action they take will create a deep, deep division in their party. They're going to avoid it as long as they can." There's one alternative route in the amendment: Instead of the Cabinet, Congress can establish a disability review commission to determine whether the president is unfit. But even if such a board pronounced Trump unfit, they would still need the vice president to agree, as well as a two-thirds majority in each House. Impeachment, by contrast, doesn't require the vice president's assent, and needs only a majority in the House, not two-thirds. That's not going to happen in a House with a Republican majority, but if Democrats win control of the chamber in 2018, it would suddenly become feasible. Trump has already provided his opponents with plenty of issues they could cast as impeachable offenses: His failure to divest his family business, the profits his hotels have made from foreign governments, his apparent carelessness with classified information, his potential obstruction of justice by firing former FBI Director James B. Comey. And Congress can define "high crimes and misdemeanors" any way it wants. A president's actions don't need to be felonies under the criminal code to be considered as grounds for impeachment -- although it helps to make a case. Of course, if Congress isn't happy with a president's job performance, it doesn't need to remove him. It has many ways to restrain his actions. It can overturn executive orders. It can impose spending limits. It can even legislate. Meanwhile, the most practical way for Trump's opponents to get him out of office remains the traditional way: to vote him out in 2020, in either the Republican primaries or the general election. The 25th Amendment? That's the hardest way of all. Immediate threats from the Nuns Fire to St. Helena have subsided, according to City Manager Mark Prestwich. At 11:50 a.m., Monday, he stated, the city no longer anticipates an advisory evacuation will be ordered. These improving conditions are aided by very low winds (3-6 mph) predicted throughout the day and evening. Residents will continue noticing Nuns Fire activity on the hills west of the city. The fires do not pose a present threat to properties in St. Helena under current conditions and are expected to burn for several days. Bulldozers have established fire containment lines at ridgetops and midslope of the hills. These fires will burn down the mountain to the containment lines before they are extinguished. If conditions change, the City will promptly advise residents via its website and Nixle. I woke to heavy banging on my front door. It was 3 a.m. on Wednesday and the first phase of what would become a complete evacuation of Calistoga. I gathered my things and rushed outside to find my neighbors huddled in small groups discussing the only route out of town as feathers of gray ash drifted down from an eerily burgundy-colored sky. Theres a mandatory evacuation in north Calistoga, but where we are were only under an advisory to leave, said Bruce Regalia, one of Napa Valleys famed winemakers. All the roads out are closed except for Highway 29. I nodded slowly, still groggy and reeling from days of little sleep, having spent hours crisscrossing the valley taking photos and talking to winemakers and vineyard experts as I attempted to better understand the impact of what U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson has called, the worst fire disaster in Californias history. What about the wine? I asked, more as a feeble attempt to inject a little humor into the otherwise somber scene than as a real question. Its only wine, Regalia said and then gave a tempered laugh. Well do what we can when we can, but nothing is worth putting a human life in danger theres always another vintage. As I drove south to join my wife and children in Los Angeles, I pondered Regalias words and how they echoed what Id heard often during my previous days journeys. First concern: Safety Speaking to winemakers, winery and vineyard owners, wine scientists and all sorts of wine professionals I heard a consistent theme: that the Napa Valley, and Northern California more broadly, is facing a life-threatening, epic-sized disaster where the first priority must be to keep people safe and secure. Our first goal is to keep people safe, said Garrett Buckland, president of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers Association. If a vineyard is determined safe, then some of our growers have gone in to assess damage, but some have decided that a few tons of remaining grapes might not be worth the risk. Keeping crews healthy There are some people that have their crews out there picking, and thats not OK with all this smoke in the air, said Kevin Morrisey, winemaker at Ehlers Estate Winery. Were lucky that we picked all our grapes prior to the fires, but for those that havent they need to wait until the air conditions improve or the crews have proper safety equipment in place. Our crews have all been trained and fit-tested for respirators and so all the crews are utilizing them when out in the vineyards, but Im not sure what other people are doing, said winemaker Steve Matthiasson. People are just trying to make things work. The problem is that we are right in the middle of harvest, which means that tanks are in the middle of fermentation, grapes are still hanging on the vines and there are so many of the crew that make the bulk of their money this time of year that I worry that people might be tempted to loosen standards. I hope they dont. Some have turned to mechanical harvesters, Buckland said. That way they can limit exposure because they have enclosed spaces that are air-conditioned for the driver. Sometimes theres a tendency for people making wine to go a little cowboy, doing things to make the perfect wine but putting themselves and others at risk in the process, said Morrisey. No one needs to be hiking into restricted areas to check on their grapes or a winery. Heading up in the dead of night to perform that one extra punch-down of your wine without power alone is just stupid and puts yourself and others at risk. Uncharted waters Most of those I spoke with were trying their best to remain safe and also take care of business as much as possible. Grapegrowers with any fruit still left on their vines were assessing damage and deciding on next steps. Were at about 75 percent picked in Napa, with about 20 to 30 percent of the cabernet grapes still out on the vines, Buckland said. Many growers are deciding between either picking, irrigating or abandoning the crop altogether. Buckland said the problem with picking the grapes now is that theyve been covered by a layer of smoke and ash whose chemicals can impart a campfire aroma to the final wine called smoke taint. On the other hand, because the grapes are ready to harvest, keeping them out longer in an attempt to see if conditions improve has its own risks. Even so, some are considering watering the vines to allow the fruit to hang on for another week, waiting and hoping for less smoke and perhaps a reduction of the film on the grape skins through wind action and time. My own sampling at some of the finest cabernet vineyards from the southern to the northern end of the Napa Valley revealed the intense woodsy smoky aroma as the predominant flavor. Some growers are just going to say its not worth the effort or risk to life and limb to bring in fruit that may or may not produce the level of wine desired, said Roger Boulton, professor of enology in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis. For those grapes that are harvested post-fire there are some unanswered questions because we have never had a situation like this before. In the past, our experiences with smoke taint have been caused by fires that happened weeks prior to harvest. So most of the studies that have looked into the phenomenon are based on different conditions. Smoke taint As smoke and soot settle on the grape skins, some of their chemical compounds adhere to the waxy layer of the grapes. Over time these chemicals are incorporated and metabolized by the fruit, causing a host of negative issues to both flavor and physiology. Deciding if and when to harvest the grapes is only the first step. Once in the winery, typically red grapes are allowed to ferment into wine for days, sometimes weeks, so that the color and tannic profiles of the wines are allowed to be infused with the otherwise, initially, nearly colorless grape juice. But with the smoky residue on the skins winemakers are faced with a dilemma: trying to optimize color extraction while minimizing smoky flavors. And the problem is that there seems to be no one best approach. Our goal is to get the color but not the smoke, said winemaker Bryan Parker of Rutherford Hill Winery. We still have some fruit out and hope to bring it in, process it very gently and keep the free run separate from the pressed lots. However, one of the problems that is being exacerbated by the fires is that power has been spotty, which means we have needed to watch things extra closely. Many of the winemakers described a similar approach; however, some are considering adding in enzymes to help break down the skins faster, releasing their color quickly and then pressing off the unfinished wine in increasing concentration, or pressed lots, which can then be tested for smoke taint over time. One of the problems is that the smoke-taint molecules can become bound to sugar molecules, making them heavy, Boulton said. However, as the wine finishes fermentation or ages, these larger molecules begin to break down, releasing them beyond our perception threshold, so an early sample that does not display smoke taint may sometime in the future. So keeping the lots separate is important. Beyond separation Other techniques for limiting smoke taint may include quickly heating the grapes to a very high temperature, referred to as flash detente. I havent picked anything due to low air quality and wineries operating at limited capacity but plan to do some flash detente to help the smoke, said Alisa Jacobson, head winemaker at Joel Gott wines. Limiting skin contact is the main goal. The flash helps because you get your extraction quickly so you dont sacrifice quality the quick heat volatilizes all aromatics, including the smoke. Weve had smaller fires in wine country for the last few years, so Ive played around with different winemaking techniques, but this is unprecedented. Others are considering washing the grapes with ozone spray, but Boulton recommends against this untested and potentially unsafe practice. Some might be considering desperate actions, but using ozone to spray down grapes will not have the intended effect and might actually cause other negative aromatic-related issues and also could be dangerous for those conducting the process, he said. Buckland agrees that using ozone to wash grapes would need to be conducted with caution. Using ozone for this is not something that Id recommend, Buckland said. Ive never really heard of this being done, and ozone use requires respirators and other safety precautions. Washing grapes may have limited effect anyway because most of the off-tasting chemicals are absorbed into the grapes water-resistant waxy coat. Experimenting and testing Beyond limiting skin contact, some winemakers will be conducting a variety of experiments to see what works best. I hear that some are thinking about adding enzymes to the fermenting wine to help extract color fast, but this will also extract all the other stuff they are attempting to avoid, too, Regalia said. I dont recommend it. Loss of water and power I found skeleton crews of a few mask-clad employees trying to make do with limited resources at nearly every winery I visited and every winery is finding it difficult to manage. We havent had power for the last 36 hours or so, Matthiasson said. Depending on the winery, not having power can result in limited well water, loss of temperature controls leading to overheated fermentation and also hot conditions for crews. And although many wineries have back-up generators, some have found it hard to keep them full of fuel and a few have found that the power was insufficient to run the powerful cooling units. We have a generator and it helps. We still dont have power, but were making do, said Cherie Melka, winemaker and co-owner of the new Melka winery north of St. Helena on the Silverado Trail. This is some way to launch our new winery, she laughed. Surrounded by her new facility, she shook her head. Small containers of grapes were stacked in what would have been a chilled cold room waiting to be processed. Well get through this and I am hoping for the best, Melka said and then quietly, almost as if to herself, and the fruit looks so great. She held up a cluster as if in evidence. Concern for fermented or aging wine Many of the winemakers said they were concerned that even the wines that were already fermented might be affected by the smoky air and soot. However, according to Boulton, wine that has already been fermented should not be affected. Its really a question of physics, Boulton said. The surface-to-air ratio of the processed wine should not allow smoke taint to be a factor in wines that are going through or have finished fermentation. Nevertheless, if surface area is the key variable, then some winemakers worry about their practice of aerating wine through processing, such as pump-overs. We are taking precautions to limit the exposure of the wine to air, Parker said. No one has ever experienced anything like this before and so we are learning as we go. It might just be some insurance, but well do what we need to do. Most wines exposed to smoke this year are likely to be sent off for testing and even filtered to remove off flavors. My personal experience in 2008 with smoke taint suggest this has limited benefits but perhaps the tools and techniques for testing and filtering have improved since then. Living in chaos Its like a whole can of worms and were just going for it here, Matthiasson said. Its chaotic and were in uncharted territory youre just out there trying your best, experimenting. Trying to emphasize safety, and then in the winery treating it like our version of triage. Were concerned about our employees, family and friends, and our own safety. Then the powers out at the winery, ash is falling from the sky, we spent all night last night on ember patrol in the vineyards and then were trying to make the wine well in all this chaos. Normally when smoke taint is suspected in either grapes or wine, samples are taken to a laboratory such as ETS or Scott Labs for further testing. However, because of the level of smoke in the air and limited power, even the labs are having trouble. The labs cant test because they are full of smoke themselves, Matthiasson said. That is even if we could get samples to them. Lots of our people have been evacuated to shelters. The Napa Valley Grapegrowers have some resources on our site that growers and vintners will find useful, Buckland said. We are working hard to keep things organized and updated, but that will come over time. Our first priority is safety. The Napa Valley Vintners also have a resource page set up on their site that includes ways for the public to donate. Each person I spoke with sounded tired but resolute, often reminding themselves that safety was the priority. Making wine is what we do and we all take pride in our craft, Matthiasson said. We are each trying to do our best in what are unimaginably challenging conditions. Were waiting for power for days and then it comes on and were thinking, Quick, lets get the wine in tank set and ready if and when the power goes out or we get evacuated we want to leave the wine in all the various stages in good condition. But when we do get the call to leave, I hope everyone takes that seriously. Theres always another vintage. Its chaotic and were in uncharted territory youre just out there trying your best, experimenting. Trying to emphasize safety, and then in the winery treating it like our version of triage. Were concerned about our employees, family and friends, and our own safety. Then the powers out at the winery, ash is falling from the sky, we spent all night last night on ember patrol in the vineyards and then were trying to make the wine well in all this chaos. Steve Matthiasson PALM BAY, Florida A Palm Bay teachers aide has been arrested and charged with lewd and lascivious battery on a victim 12-16 years of age and distributing obscene material to a minor. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); According to Palm Bay police, 35-year-old Alana L. Chasky had a relationship with a student from Riverdale Country Day School, a separate Day School that has a contract with Brevard Public Schools but is owned and operated by Behavioral Education Services under the umbrella of Universal Health Services. According to investigators, the students mother became concerned that Chasky and her son were having an inappropriate relationship after she caught Chasky dropping her son off after school and learned that Chasky was also seen by other witnesses picking up the boy from his bus stop. Palm Bay police initially investigated the mothers concerns in July 2017, but did not have enough evidence to corroborate a sexual relationship. In September, the mother told police that she finally had evidence of the relationship and presented text messages between Chasky and her son that referred to sex between the two. Police were also given video of the two in Chaskys bed and another still photo of the two together in their underwear. Emory alumnus Nikoloz Kevkhishvili, writer and director of the new film In Her Image, has collaborated with Richard Prior, director of performance studies and conductor of the Emory Symphony Orchestra, and Paul Bhasin, director of wind studies and conductor of the Emory Wind Ensemble, to bring his movie to life. With a score written by Prior, the short film will premiere Friday, Oct. 20, at 8 p.m. at Emory's Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, with live accompaniment from the Emory Wind Ensemble, conducted by Bhasin. The free event, which marks the wind ensemble's first concert of the 2017-18 season, features other musical selections and a performance by brass soloists from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. The journey that led the three artists to create this unique event began back in 2009, when Kevkhishvili came to Emory from the country of Georgia, a year after military conflict broke out with Russia. Kevkhishvili was 17. I was lucky the conflict didnt physically reach the capital where I was, he says. But I remember distinctly what I and everyone around me felt like when reality set in that images on TV were happening and that it was very real. I think there's a moment of confusion and then an instant wave of unification with people around you. Growing up, Kevkhishvili fell in love with movies especially ones that took place in America. From very young age I loved movies and fantasized about a different life I could have, or specifically a different life I could create for myself, he says. That life would have America as the backdrop. After being accepted to several universities in the U.S., Kevkhishvili chose Emory. Originally I wanted to focus on earning a bachelors in business administration, and Goizueta Business School had one of the strongest programs available, he says. He began his studies at Emory College of Arts and Sciences with a goal to transition to business school. But very soon after, he decided to pursue his dream of filmmaking. Emory's Concentration in Film and Media Management, a collaboration between the Department of Film and Media Studies in Emory College and the Goizueta Business School BBA Program, allowed him to combine his interests. Kevkhishvili majored in film studies and took classes with BBA students in areas such as marketing and management, graduating in 2013. It sounds cliche, he says. But when I asked myself What do you want to do with your life? the only pleasant answer that floated more often than others was, Go be a filmmaker like you always dreamed. From Emory to the big screen While finding a home in Atlanta, Kevkshishvilis past continued to have a heavy influence over his art. His first film, Saerto Ena (Common Tongue), made during his last year at Emory, takes place during the chaos of that bloody 2008 conflict, following a Russian civilian and a Georgian soldier who must learn to work together in order to survive. I'm very proud and happy with how the film came out, says Kevkhishvili. The decision to make the film came from the need to tell a story that was part of my identity as a Georgian and my struggle to find a peaceful solution in an impossible setting that still is happening in Georgia." The movie premiered in Atlanta at the historic Plaza Theater, after which it went on to play at various film festivals including Cinequest, Camera Image and others. In 2014, Sidarth Kantamneni, the cinematographer for Saerto Ena, was chosen for an Emerging Cinematographers Award by International Cinematographers Guild, giving Kevkhishvili a chance to have the film screened at DGA (Directors Guild of America) Theater in Los Angeles and then in New York. Creativity and collaboration Kevkhishvilis new film also has roots at Emory. As a student, he met Prior while working at the Emory Center for Creativity and Arts. Ive always admired his talent, and most importantly, his passion for music, Kevkhishvili says. Their collaboration began when Bhasin, whom Kevkhishvili calls equally talented and passionate, suggested they create a concert featuring musical scores from movies. Or, Bhasin suggested, perhaps even create an original score for a selected short. Obviously I could never pass on an amazing opportunity, says Kevkshishvili. They made a plan: Kevkhishvili would create a short film for which Prior would compose an original score, and Bhasin and the Emory Wind Ensemble would then perform it live at the Schwartz Center in front of an audience. The result is In Her Image, a sci-fi thriller set in the future that tells the story of a desperate mother who risks everything to save her son. It has elements of virtual reality and artificial intelligence, but ultimately I wanted to focus more on the human side of the story, says Kevkhishvili. For that reason, he filmed everything in Tbilisi, Georgia. Working with some of the most talented and passionate crew, we decided to stay away from overwhelming visual effects as much as possible and showcase the capitals locations," he explains. "The unique and raw look of the city mixed with beautiful camerawork really brings out a realistic look for the story." 'A dream come true' Music adds another level of depth and beauty to the film. For Prior, an acclaimed composer and conductor, creating the score was a great way to tackle a new medium. As a composer, I have always found film as an art form to possess striking similarities to music, says Prior. Creating a score for wind ensemble rather than the default symphony orchestra offered unique timbral blends and a general esthetic that integrated well with the tone and dramaturgy of the film itself. Bhasin is excited for the audience and the student performers in the Emory Wind Ensemble to have the chance to experience a project that involves the creation of new works of art. The students understood the disciplinary comparison between science research, creating new knowledge in the form of scientific research, and performing arts research, creating new works of art that contribute to the discursive practices in music and film arenas," the conductor explains. The other exciting part? The recording made by the Emory Wind Ensemble will be the version festival audiences and judges hear when Kevkhishvili applies to the festival circuit. For me, ultimately, the goal is for the film to be seen, says Kevkhishvili. Theres a longer road ahead to potentially make a feature length film inspired by the short. The likelihood of that will definitely depend on everything we are working on combined, and a bit of luck, as always. Heading into the film's premiere at Emory, Kevkhishvili says the score and the collaborative process of creating it is more than he could have hoped for. It really was a dream come true, he says. To have your film on a big screen with live original score performed by talented musicians is a once in a lifetime experience. And there's nothing that beats the energy and atmosphere of a live performance. That's one of the reasons I'm so excited the audience will have a chance to view the film in Emerson Hall. - Malaysia receives three proposals from different companies to resume search for missing flight MH370. - Needs to have detailed discussions with the companies. - A joint two-year search that cost around $159.16m was recently called off in January. The Malaysian government has received proposals from three different companies offering to continue the search for missing Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370 which went missing 3 years ago. Malaysian transport minister Liow Tiong Lai said proposals were received from US-based seabed exploration firm Ocean Infinity, Dutch firm Fugro and an unidentified Malaysian company. "We won't be deciding anything now on whether we are embarking on a new search or not," Liow told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Kuala Lumpur. "We have to discuss with the companies. It will take some time as it's some detailed discussions," he said. Liow made this disclosure while commenting on media reports from Australia that claimed Malaysia was on the verge of resuming the search as early as this week. Australia, Malaysia and China had previously called off a A$200m ($159.16m), two-year search for the plane in January, despite protests from families of those onboard the missing flight. - 15 dead, dozens injured after suicide bombing attack on Police Station in Afghanistan. - Police were engaged in a firefight with gunmen who accompanied the suicide bombers. - Area remains sealed off as the Police try to eliminate the terrorists. A firefight took place in the early hours of Tuesday after some gunmen and suicide bombers attacked a Police training facility in Afghanistan. The suicide bombing attack has left at least 25 people killed and dozens more injured. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault" in Gardez, capital of Paktia province, the interior ministry said in a statement. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. At least 15 people were killed and more than 40 wounded. Victims included "women, students and police", Hedayatullah Hamidi, public health director in Gardez, told AFP news agency. "At the moment the area is sealed by the crisis response unit and efforts are ongoing to eliminate the terrorists," the interior ministry statement added. 23:19 A day after Haryanvi singer and dancer Harshita Dahiya was killed, her jailed brother-in-law has emerged as the main suspect in the crime, according to the police. Harshita's sister Lata alleged that her husband Dinesh had got the artist killed because she was the prime witness in their mother's murder in 2014 in which he is an accused. Panipat police said they will question Harshita's brother-in-law Dinesh in connection with the murder after getting his production warrant from the court in Chandigarh. "We have applied in the court here for the production warrant of Dinesh who is lodged in Jhajjar jail. After bringing him here, we will question him about the murder," said Panipat DSP Desh Raj. Police said no arrest has yet been made in the case and investigations are underway. Harshita, a 22-year-old Haryanvi singer, was shot dead yesterday by unidentified assailants at Chamrara village in Haryana's Panipat district. She was shot when she was on her way back to home in a car at around 4 pm after completing her performance at a function in village Chamrara, police had said. "Dinesh, my husband," alleged Lata, when she was asked who could be behind the murder of her sister Harshita. "He got her (Harshita) killed because she was a witness in the murder of her mother," Lata claimed in Panipat while talking to reporters today. Police said Dinesh had allegedly threatened to kill Harshita a few months back. "Her brother-in-law was already charged with the murder of Harshita's mother. He was facing several criminal cases and was already in jail," said Desh Raj. Harshita's mother was killed in 2014 in Delhi and the singer was the prime witness in the murder case, police said. Meanwhile, seven to eight bullet injury marks were found during the postmortem of Harshita's body. -- PTI (File) Iraqi security forces on Monday fully recaptured the city of Kirkuk after the Kurdish forces withdrew from the city. (Xinhua Photo) KIRKUK, Iraq, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi security forces on Monday fully recaptured the city of Kirkuk and took control of the government building after the Kurdish forces withdrew from the city, a local security source told Xinhua. The Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS), Iraqi army, federal police and the paramilitary Hashd Shaabi brigades swept the city of Kirkuk, some 250 km north of Baghdad, and took control of provincial government building in the central of the city, the source said on condition of anonymity. The Iraqi forces deployed in the main streets of the city and seized the other government buildings after the Kurdish Peshmerga forces and thousands of militants affiliated with the leading Kurdish parties withdrew from the streets, the source said. A statement by the General Command of the Peshmerga forces said "the redeployment of federal forces in Kirkuk is an attack on the province and a flagrant declaration of war on the people of Kurdistan." The statement accused officials from the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), which was headed by the late Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, of collaborating in a historic conspiracy against the region of Kurdistan. "Those (Peshmerga) leaders withdrew from some of the sensitive positions in front of the Hashd Shaabi forces without confrontation and left (the Peshmerga leader) Kosrat Rasoul alone," the Peshmerga command said. However, a statement by the PUK leaders denied the accusations saying they were outnumbered overnight when large Iraqi forces with some 350 tanks and armored vehicles attacked their posts in Taza area in south of Kirkuk and they fought for four hours but the battle was not balanced and were forced to withdraw. On Monday afternoon, the Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of Iraqi forces, ordered the troops to raise the Iraqi flag in all the disputed areas, including Kirkuk, Abadi's office said in a statement. Also in the day, Abadi issued a statement to reassure the people of the Kurdish region and the residents of Kirkuk province that the federal government is keen on their safety and interest. "We assure our people in Kurdistan and in particular in Kirkuk that we are keen on their safety and interest. We have only fulfilled our constitutional duty to extend the federal authority and impose security and protect the national wealth in this city," Abadi said in a statement by his office. "We call upon the Peshmerga forces to perform their duty under the federal leadership as part of the Iraqi armed forces," Abadi said. "It's my duty to act in accordance with the constitution to serve the citizens and protect the unity of the country, which was at risk of partition as a result of the insistence on holding a referendum by the controllers of the Kurdistan region unilaterally," Abadi added. Earlier in the day, Abadi ordered government forces to enter the oil-rich Kirkuk province in northern Iraq to regain control of the disputed areas claimed between Baghdad and the Kurdish semi-autonomous region. The Iraqi forces pushed into Kirkuk province and recaptured the headquarters of the government-owned North Oil Company and the nearby huge oil and gas field, known as Baba Gurgur, in addition to several towns and many oil installations and military bases, including the major airbase of al-Hurriyah, also known as K1 near Kirkuk. The Kurds also withdrew from other disputed areas outside Kirkuk province, such as the city of Tuz-Khurmato in Salahudin province and the cities of Qara-Tappa, Jalawlaa and Jabbara in Iraq's eastern province of Diyala. Disagreements between Baghdad and the Kurdish regional government have been running high for years. The ethnic Kurds consider the northern Kirkuk province and parts of Nineveh, Diyala and Salahudin provinces as disputed areas and want them to be incorporated into their region, a move fiercely opposed by the Arabs and Turkomans and by the central government in Baghdad. The disputed areas are mostly under the control of Peshmerga, but in small areas like the city of Tuz-Khurmato, there is a mixed presence of federal forces and the Peshmerga. Tensions are escalating between Baghdad and the region of Kurdistan after the Kurds held a controversial referendum on the independence of the Kurdistan region and the disputed areas. The independence of Kurdistan is opposed not only by the Iraqi central government, but also by most other countries as it would threaten the integrity of Iraq and undermine the fight against IS militants. Iraq's neighboring countries, especially Turkey, Iran and Syria, fear that the Iraqi Kurds' pursuit of independence threatens their territorial integrity, as a large Kurdish population lives in those countries. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 00:07:20|Editor: Zhou Xin Video Player Close Image made by Caltech and NASA shows the UV/IR/Radio discovery of neutron star merger in NGC 4993. Scientists announced Monday that they have for the first time detected the ripples in space and time known as gravitational waves as well as light from a spectacular collision of two neutron stars. (Xinhua/Robert Hurt of Caltech, Mansi Kasliwal of Caltech, Gregg Hallinan of Caltech, Phil Evans of NASA and the GROWTH collaboration) WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Scientists announced Monday that they have for the first time detected the ripples in space and time known as gravitational waves as well as light from a spectacular collision of two neutron stars. The detection of the gravitational wave signal, called GW170817, was made at 8:41 a.m. EDT (1241 GMT) on August 17 by twin detectors of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO),located in Livingston, Louisiana, and Hanford, Washington. "GROUNDBREAKING" DETECTION It was touted as "groundbreaking" and "unprecedented" because all the four gravitational waves detected before came from two black holes orbiting each other and merging. "The detection of gravitational waves from a binary neutron star merger is something that we have spent decades preparing for," Alan Weinstein, head of Caltech (California Institute of Technology) astrophysical data analysis group for LIGO, said in a statement. "On that morning, all of our dreams came true." About two seconds after the latest gravitational wave incident ended, a bright flash of light, in the form of gamma rays, was detected by U.S. space agency NASA's Fermi space telescope. In the hours, days and weeks following the smashup, other forms of light or electromagnetic radiation -- including X-ray, ultraviolet, optical, infrared, and radio waves -- were detected. "We quickly established that the two stars were each less than around twice the mass of the sun, putting them in the typical mass range of neutron stars," Weinstein said. The coincident gamma-ray burst suggested that the stars, unlike black holes, emit light. Later studies by Caltech and LIGO Scientific Collaboration, a group of more than 1,200 scientists worldwide, found that the two stars were located in NGC 4993, a galaxy about 130 million light years away in the constellation Hydra. Neutron stars, formed when massive stars explode in supernovas, are the smallest, densest stars known to exist, with a teaspoon of neutron star material having a mass of about one billion tons. COSMIC MINE The light-based detections that followed showed that the collision of the neutron stars released newly synthesized heavy elements into the surrounding universe. That's "the first concrete proof that such smashups are the birthplace of half of the universe's elements heavier than iron, including gold and platinum," the LIGO team said in a statement. Previously, scientists knew where the lighter elements in the periodic table were synthesized. Most of the hydrogen and helium came from the Big Bang, and elements up to iron are fused in the cores of stars. "But the origin of half the elements heavier than iron has been uncertain," the team said. "Astronomers have long suspected that they are synthesized in neutron-star collisions through rapid capture of neutrons ... but had no proof." This time, continued observations by an array of ground-based telescopes found features indicative of chemical elements produced by the neutron capture process "For the very first time, we see unequivocal evidence of a cosmic mine that is forging about 10,000 earth-masses of heavy elements, such as gold, platinum, and neodymium," said Mansi Kasliwal, leader of a worldwide telescope network called GROWTH taking part in the discovery. In other words, neutron stars are the primary factories for gold in the cosmos. The results were described in a series of papers appearing in various journals such as Science and Nature. BIG DEAL Interestingly, the August 17 event was nearly missed because the gravitational wave signal was not immediately evident in Livingston data due to a burst of noise. However, the Hanford signal was good enough to trigger a deeper analysis of the data that quickly located the signature. "Fermi's observation of a gamma-ray burst at nearly the same time added to the excitement and urgency of the moment," Weinstein said. At around 10 a.m. EDT (1400 GMT), a little more than an hour after the gravitational wave was detected at the LIGO observatories, the astronomical community across the world was notified. Originally predicted in the early 20th century by Albert Einstein, gravitational waves caused by cataclysmic cosmic events result in ripples that propagate through spacetime, just like the movement of waves away from a stone thrown into a pond. The first three such events were detected by LIGO, and the fourth was detected simultaneously by both LIGO and Italy-based Virgo detectors. Michael Guidry, professor of physics and astronomy at the University of Tennessee, who was not directly involved in the new discovery, called the first detection of gravitational waves produced by colliding neutron stars "quite a big deal" because the physics is "fundamentally different" from merging black holes. "The primary difference is that for black hole mergers essentially no matter is involved, while for neutron star mergers a large amount of very dense matter is involved," Guidry told Xinhua. "This has implications for broad issues in stellar evolution such as how the heavy elements are produced, the mechanism for gamma-ray bursts, detailed internal properties and maximum mass for neutron stars before they must collapse to black holes," he said. "Such a detection would open entirely new avenues of inquiry in many fields of astronomy and astrophysics, so it would have a huge impact on those communities and on the future of those fields." JUST THE BEGINNING For example, observations of gravity from the collisions of high mass objects, like GW170817, are considered one of the few ways to test Einstein's theory. Gregory Harry, associate professor at the American University, explained that all five gravitational wave detections agree very well with Einstein's General Theory of Relativity. "So far we haven't gotten any new hints, and it is possible that Einstein's theory does correctly describe our universe without any changes or additions," Harry, a member of LIGO Scientific Collaboration, told Xinhua.p "But even though our detections have been very clear and strong compared to what we expected, there is still plenty of room for stronger, clearer detections that might show us what is beyond Einstein's description of gravity," he said. The discovery of gravitational waves was so important that three U.S scientists behind it were awarded the Nobel Prize in physics this month. "I would suggest that the Nobel Prize in physics this year wasn't given so much for the first detection of gravitational waves, but for opening up the field of gravitational astronomy," Harry said. "Gravitational astronomy is just the beginning," he said. "We can expect many more insights into cosmology, astronomy, astrophysics, nuclear physics, gravity, and other fields from gravitational wave observations as the 21st century progresses." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 01:58:01|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close CAIRO, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Arab League (AL) Chief Ahmed Aboul-Gheit called on Monday for intensifying Arab and international support for Somali security institutions. In a press statement, Aboul-Gheit expressed support for the efforts exerted by the Somali government to defeat Al-Shabaab organization and other terrorist groups. He expressed shock and sadness over the killing of a large number of people in twin bomb blasts in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday. The AL chief also welcomed the statement issued by the United Nations Security Council which condemned the bombing and backed efforts exerted to achieve security and stability in the African country. Two explosions rocked the heart of Mogadishu on Saturday night, leaving over 270 people dead and hundreds others injured. The al-Qaida linked militant group, Al-Shabaab, which has carried out similar attacks before has not claimed responsibility for the latest one. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 02:28:12|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close AMMAN, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Jordan on Monday launched the 2017 Arab Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, which encourages women to undergo screening for early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. This year marks the tenth edition of the annual campaign, which is the first of its kind in the Arab region. It attracted a lot of Middle East countries including Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Palestine, Bahrain, Iraq, Egypt, Morocco and Algeria, to participate in. The event is organized by the Jordan Breast Cancer Programme (JBCP) led by the King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF). At a press conference Monday, Jordanian Princess Ghida Talal, Chairperson of the KHCF, expressed that "every mother in Amman, every daughter in Beirut, every sister in Jerusalem and every friend in Baghdad, Riyadh, Manama, Cairo, Rabat, Abu Dhabi and Algeria is our priority, and her health is our ultimate goal." "Today, I turn to every woman in every village, city and Arab country and ask her to get screened," added the Princess. Around 5,400 breast cancer cases are recorded in Jordan every year. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in Jordan, accounting for 19 percent of all cancer cases, according to health officials. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 02:48:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MOSCOW, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree to impose a number of bans on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in compliance with the United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 2321, Russia's legal document portal published Monday. Russia imposed sanctions on 11 DPRK individuals and 10 companies involved in Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, according to the decree. It banned exports to the DPRK of 80 chemical substances and types of equipment and software that may be used to produce nuclear, chemical or biological weapons. The decree cut the number of bank accounts of DPRK's diplomatic missions in Russia and bans exports of luxury items, including expensive tapestries, carpets and porcelain kitchenware. It also recommended the suspension of scientific and technical cooperation that may contribute to nuclear and missile development with individuals and institutions representing the DPRK. Other measures were also included in the 39-page presidential decree. On Nov. 30, 2016, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted the Resolution 2321 in response to Pyongyang's fifth nuclear test on Sept. 9. In the UN document, the 15-nation council decided that the DPRK should not supply, sell or transfer coal, iron and iron ore from its territory, but excluded transactions for livelihood purposes. The council set an upper limit on the DPRK's coal exporting and banned the sale of copper, nickel, silver, zinc and statues from the DPRK. Dr. David Reitze, Executive Director of the LIGO Laboratory at Caltech, shows the merging of two black holes at a news conference to discuss the detection of gravitational waves, ripples in space and time hypothesized by physicist Albert Einstein a century ago, in Washington, DC, U.S. on February 11, 2016. (REUTERS/Gary Cameron/File Photo) WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- The executive director of the gravitational wave detector LIGO on Monday hailed the first detection of such a signal as well as light from the same cosmic event as opening the door to an "entirely new kind of astronomy" and said that China could play an "exciting" role in studying these ripples in space and time. David Reitze and his colleagues announced at a news conference at the National Press Club in Washington D.C. on Monday that a collision of two neutron stars about 130 million light years away has been observed through both gravitational waves and telescopes, which has never been done before. "I think this is a really major discovery in the history of astronomy," Reitze, also a professor of physics at Caltech, told Xinhua in an interview after the new briefing. "It's the first time that we've been able to use both gravitational waves which is a very new tool -- this is only something that's existed for a couple of years -- and all of the kinds of astronomy that we've done for tens and hundreds and even, you know, 400 years." he said. "By having all of those different ways of looking at the event, it gives you a much more complete picture of the gravitational wave event, of the light that comes off the event," he said. "So it's really for us a new kind of astronomy and we're learning all kinds of things." For example, heavy elements such as gold and platinum are produced in the collisions of neutron stars and when these objects collide they also produce "short-hard" gamma ray bursts, all of which are questions that people have been asking for decades and now are able to answer, he said. Yet, in the words of Reitze, the discovery made on August 17 by LIGO's twin detectors in Louisiana and Washington states still was something of a surprise. "WoW, I mean, it's really WoW," he said. This event, he explained, was amazing in many ways, including the facts that it's 10 times closer to us than any of the four previous gravitational wave signals created by black holes and that the plane of orbits was oriented in a way that the gamma ray signal could be seen. "Just statistically speaking, you're not always going to see the gamma rays and that means that you're not always going to have light to be able to look at, so this was an amazing event," Reitze continued. "So my reaction was WoW. I can't believe it." To highlight the significance of the new discovery, Reitze took out from his pocket a gold watch that he said his grandmother inherited from her father and gave him when he was still a little boy. "This was a watch that was probably bought in the early 1800s and it's coated in gold," he said. "The chance that the gold in this watch were produced by the collision of two neutron stars many billions of years ago, probably more than five billions of years ago, is very high." "So the gold everybody wears and their wedding rings and their earrings, their bracelets, all the gold stored in gold bars, were probably produced by the collision of a binary neutron star," he said. "Amazing!" Reitze said that he knows that there have been some discussions in China about building gravitational wave detectors and that a number of challenges that other countries have to overcome, including land, people and money, maybe, are not problems in China. "So I think there's a real role if China wants to become involved in gravitational waves," he said. "China, I know, has thought about putting their own space-based gravitational wave detector up and that would be very, very exciting." When asked to predict the future of gravitational astronomy, Reitze said although Einstein's theory of general relativity has been proven right again and again, but it can't be the ultimate theory because it's hard to reconcile it with quantum mechanics. "People have been working for a long time to try and bring those two theories together, the problem is that there's no experimental evidence to sort of guide you where you want to go," he said. "So it may be and I'm not going to promise this, but for me it would be very exciting, if we see that in the collisions of black holes, for example, that the nature of spacetime tells us through the gravitational wave emissions something about the quantum nature of gravity, that would be amazing." LIGO's groundbreaking gravitation wave discovery in 2015 was so important that three American scientists behind it were awarded the Nobel Prize in physics this month, but could we expect more? "That's up to the Nobel Prize Committee," Reitze said, laughing. "I was very glad that they gave the Nobel Prize to Rainer Weiss, Kip Thorne and Barry Barish. I think they were very deserving of it." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 06:59:21|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close LOS ANGELES, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- A jury in Los Angeles Superior Court began on Monday the case that an 8-year-old boy Gabriel Fernandez was tortured and abused to death by his mother and her boyfriend in 2013. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against the two defendants. Moreover, four local social workers involved in this case are also facing the charges for their negligence and mishandling evidence, some of whom can even face up to 10 years in prison if convicted. L.A. Superior Court Judge Mary Lou Villar pointed out that some signs already showed on Gabriel during the months before his death, such as he misses school and he had injuries, which should have attracted social workers' attention that something was already wrong with Gabriel and his family. However, the social workers failed to file the timely report and their negligence of handling the evidence resulted in the escalating abuse, according to L.A. Times. "Our country has such related children protection department, that doesn't mean all the children are being well protected. I believe Gabriel's case is an alarm for all the social workers all over the country, no matter they are convicted or not at last," Jerald Schutte, the professor of Sociology department in California State University told Xinhua on Monday. "It also reflects the leaders of the department do not give enough supervision, I believe such circumstances still exist in other places," he said. Two social workers and their supervisors were fired from Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) since an internal investigation started. The DCFS investigator Jessica Brown testified that Clement underrated the danger of Gabriel, omitted the mental health of his mother, leading to her wrongly assessment. L.A. Times reported that during the months Gabriel was being abused, he was shot with BB gun, forced to eat his own vomit and locked in a closet. On May 22, 2013, when the paramedics arrived at the boy's house, they found his skull was cracked, three ribs were broken and his skin was bruised and burned. He died the same day. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 07:41:47|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close Photo taken on Oct. 16, 2017 shows shared bicycles parking inside of a drawn box in Singapore. Singapore's Land Transport Authority, National Parks Board and 16 Town Councils signed recently a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the five bicycle-sharing operators in Singapore to encourage responsible operation of bicycle-sharing services in public spaces. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey) Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 08:09:29|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- At least five killed in an alleged U.S. drone attack in northwestern Pakistan area late Monday, according to local reports, adding that the target was a militant house. The reports said that the attack took place in Kurram Agency in northwestern Pakistan bordering Afghanistan and four or six missiles were fired in the attack. Some others were reportedly injured in the attack. A militant commander and four of his companions reportedly belonged to Afghan Taliban were killed in the attack. Local administration in the agency is investigating the attack, said the reports, but adding that it is still unclear that the attack is in Pakistan or in the other side of the border in Afghanistan. It was the second drone attack launched by the United States since U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled his policies toward Afghanistan and South Asia in August. A similar attack killed three people and injured two in September. The drone strike came only days after Pakistan rescued a family of U.S.-Canadian hostages in the agency on the U.S.-shared intelligence. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 08:29:32|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close KABUL, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ambassador to Afghanistan Yao Jing said on Monday that China will provide 1 million U.S. dollars worth of emergency food aid to Afghanistan via the World Food Program (WFP). Yao, together with Paul Howe, WFP deputy country director for Afghanistan, attended the launch ceremony of the assistance project here on Monday. The Chinese ambassador told Xinhua that as winter draws near, displaced people in the country are faced with difficulties. As a friendly and close neighbor to Afghanistan, China hopes to work with the WFP in helping Afghan people get through the food crisis, he said. It is the first cooperation between China and the WFP in Afghanistan, according to the Chinese envoy. Paul Howe expressed thanks to China for its support and contribution to the WFP's work in Affghanistan, saying the organization sees the project as the beginning of new and fruitfull cooperation between the two sides, which will help achieve the shared vision of an Afghanistan free from hunger. "WFP Afghanistan sees this exciting development as a foundation for a new and fruitful partnership between WFP Afghanistan and the government of China that will help achieve our shared vision of an Afghanistan free from hunger," Howe said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 09:39:45|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close YANGON, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar has launched a project of re-construction of destroyed houses in conflict-torn areas in northern Rakhine state under a mechanism of the Union Enterprises for Humanitarian Assistance, Resettlement and Development (UEHRD), Myanmar News Agency reported Tuesday. The project, which started on Monday for Mro ethnic people at the village of Kondaing, came three days after State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi announced the mechanism, chaired by herself, involving the private sector, local non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations, friendly countries and United Nations agencies. The mechanism is aimed at allowing the government and all local and international organizations to work in all sectors and all strata of society. Minister of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr. Win Myat Aye laid a cornerstone to mark the launching of the house reconstruction. The minister's delegation also visited some other villages in Maungtaw township including Islamic village of Pantawpyin and delivered humanitarian aid to the villagers. Aung San Suu Kyi, in a speech to the nation on last Thursday, prioritized three main tasks to be done in Rakhine, repatriation of refugees who have crossed over to Bangladesh and providing humanitarian assistance effectively; resettlement and rehabilitation; and bringing development to the region and establishing lasting peace. For the development of Rakhine state, she called for setting up the UEHRD in Rakhine. The government also pledged readiness to implement a national verification and repatriation process to be done in accordance with the agreed criteria set out in the joint statement between foreign ministries of Myanmar and Bangladesh in 1992. The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army extremist terrorists launched fresh attacks on police outposts in Rakhine on Aug. 25, displacing residents from a number of areas in Maungtaw district. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 10:31:18|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close Iraqi soldiers are seen at K1 airbase in the northwest of Kirkuk city, Iraq on Oct. 16, 2017. Iraqi security forces on Monday fully recaptured the city of Kirkuk and took control of the government building after the Kurdish forces withdrew from the city, a local security source told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood) Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 10:30:03|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian President Michel Temer on Monday condemned the terror attack in Somalia that has claimed over 300 lives so far. Through his Twitter account, President Temer spoke of shock and consternation after the deadly attack. "We are shocked by the attack in Somalia, which caused the deaths and injuries of hundreds of victims. We repudiate all forms of terrorism," the president tweeted. The attack occurred in the Somalia capital of Mogadishu on Saturday when two truck bombs exploded near a crowded market and a hotel. So far, the death toll has reached 315 and hundreds of others have been injured. Brazilian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attack in a statement issued on Sunday. "As it transmits condolences to the families of the victims and offers solidarity to the people and the government of Somalia, Brazil reiterates its repudiation to terrorism, regardless of its motivation," the statement said. The Somali government has declared three days of mourning following the attack. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 10:35:45|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close LUOYANG, Henan Province, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- It takes four hours for a high-speed train to travel from the modern capital of Beijing to Luoyang, capital of China's first dynasty, the Xia (2070-1600 B.C.), in central China's Henan Province. But it would take Luoyang almost six and a half years to produce what Beijing achieved last year in terms of GDP. In historical documents and fiction, Luoyang is depicted as a mighty political center just like Beijing. By the middle of the 10th century, Luoyang was already a bustling metropolis, and had already spent half of its then-3,000-year history as the capital of 13 dynasties. Today, the city resembles many of the country's other 600 cities. Visitors may hardly notice any trace of its past glory at first glance. One reason is that its oldest architecture, which was made of wood, was destroyed by wars. BUILDING CONFIDENCE Despite being home to six UNESCO World Heritage sites, Luoyang is not as well known as western equivalents. It is among several cities in China that had expanded away from instead of building on top of its ancients ruins in early 1950s. The modern city landscape gives few clues of its historic past, except a designated field of 47 square kilometers, 10 times the size of Vatican City, in the downtown area. Cultural relics have been detected underground. The city government has an ambitious plan to restore architecture of the 6th and 7th centuries. "City planning and construction are intertwined with cultural relic protection," says Li Ya, Party secretary of Luoyang, "If we can handle them well, it will be a win-win situation. But if we mess it up, the relics will either constrain development or they will be damaged." "President Xi Jinping told us to have pride in our culture," he says, "And people need something tangible to reach consensus on." Luoyang is the home to the Chinese civilization origin. Archaeologists identify the Erlitou ruins discovered in Luoyang in 1959 as one of the capital cities during the Xia Dynasty. The local government is investing billions trying to restore the grandeur of what is believed to have been world's most populous city at the end of the 7th century. It hints, according to some experts, that China will not only continue to be an economic powerhouse, but also strive to pick up its lost glory as a major civilization. China is promoting its cultural values and making its voice heard worldwide. AWAKING Luoyang was at its peak during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), when China's sole empress, Wu Zetian, moved the capital there from Chang'an (today's Xi'an), during her reign from 690 to 705. Following the rises and fall of dynasties, Luoyang gradually lost its luster as the center of China, and even of the world. The city is underrated compared to other ancient capitals of China such as Xi'an which is known worldwide for its Terracotta Warriors. Fallen but not forgotten, Luoyang was chosen as one of new China's heavy industry bases in the 1950s when the Communist Party of China (CPC) rebuilt the country after years of war. Being the cradle of industries such as heavy mining machinery, tractors, bearings, nonferrous metal, and high-speed diesel engines, Luoyang has absorbed so many migrants that it became one of the most populated Chinese cities 60 years ago. Today, Luoyang has more than 7 million people, about the population of Bulgaria. Its GDP in 2016 was valued at 379.5 billion yuan (about 57.5 billion U.S. dollars), ranking second in Henan Province, and 51st among all cities in China. China's aggregate economic output last year exceeded 74 trillion yuan (about 11.2 trillion U.S. dollars), representing a growth rate of 6.7 percent, among the fastest in the world. The economic miracle sustained for almost 40 years since the country adopted the reform and opening up strategy in 1978. Luoyang is a beneficiary of the process. To inject more vigor into its economy and maintain sustainable growth, China introduced supply-side structural reform at the end of 2015, which is expected to receive an endorsement at the 19th CPC National Congress scheduled to open on Oct.18. "As an old industrial base, Luoyang has no chance other than undertaking the reform to revive," says Li. He summarizes the city's development strategy as "9+2". Basically it aims to build systems of modern innovation, modern industries, modern market, modern urbanization, modern infrastructure, cultural inheritance and creation, eco-environment, openness, and public services. The strategy echoes the five development concepts of innovation, coordination, green development, opening up and inclusiveness, proposed by the CPC in 2015. The "big five" is supposed to be a theme topic at the upcoming Party congress to produce future growth. Henan Province expects much from Luoyang, hoping it becoming one of the engines that drive the province's economy. Almost all the provincial leaders - Party secretaries and governors - are deputies to the CPC congress, the most important meeting to decide China's next five year or even longer plans. The country's future development rests on the growth of hundreds of cities like Luoyang and thousands of counties. "If we can make good use of the policies to be adopted at the congress, the effect would be as major as that of the 1950s," says Li. WELL-OFF SOCIETY IN SIGHT "We are in a tough battle on two fronts," says Li, referring to carrying out the supply-side structural reform and fighting poverty. He is not exaggerating by comparing poverty elimination to war. Five years ago, the 18th CPC National Congress proclaimed to build the country with nearly one fifth of the world's population into a moderately prosperous society in all respects by 2020. China has brought an annual average of 13.9 million people out of poverty in the past five years, which means almost 1.16 million per month, or at least 26 people per minute. China is in a race against time, as there are more than 43 million people, or three percent of its total population, still living below the poverty line of 2,300 yuan (344 U.S. dollars) annual income. "This is the most significant Chinese solution to the worldwide problem," says Li, who is a delegate to the 18th and the 19th CPC National Congress. Challenges ahead are not limited to poverty reduction. Environmental protection is on the top agenda of Li and all Chinese local officials as well as central government leaders. Luoyang launched a three-year river cleanup campaign in September, aiming to improve the water quality of and environment along four major rivers running across the city with a total length of 554 km (344 miles). The rivers are expected to be clean enough for swimming and raising fish. More trees and bushes, parks and wetlands will be planned along the river banks to benefit the public. "The concept of eco-civilization is becoming increasingly popular among local people," says Li, "We must do something to satisfy people." China is expected to introduce tougher measures in the coming five years to solve environmental problems. Nearly 15,000 officials have been held accountable for pollution over the past year, according to the Ministry of Environmental Protection. A NEW PHASE People believe the returning strength of Luoyang is a suggestion of China's long march to national rejuvenation. The Chinese Dream, which aims to modernize the country by the mid-21st century, has never been so true to Luoyang residents as well as Chinese people elsewhere. By then the largest group of people in the world will be free from the threat of poverty as China becomes the biggest economy, surpassing the United States. The 19th CPC National Congress is expected to make profound progress in theory and policy development, which will be guiding China in a new stage of growth, according to Liu Dezhong, a researcher specializing in Marxism and international strategies from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. "The new CPC top leadership will be elected during the milestone congress," he says, "A new phase of building a modern socialist country will be ushered in." In Li Ya's eyes, in line with the country's new development, Luoyang could be opened wider. As the place where the Grand Canal meets the Yellow River, China's second longest river, Luoyang is more than qualified in claiming itself as a pivotal Silk Road player. "We should make full use of the free trade zone to boost bonded logistics, trade and manufacturing in Luoyang," he says. The Henan Free Trade Zone has received more than 1,000 companies on Luoyang's part since its inauguration in April. Express freight trains replace horses and camels to connect Luoyang with Europe again. The commodities include electronic devices, high-tech products, as well as farm produce. "We are getting closer to the center stage of the world," says Li. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 10:35:05|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close SYDNEY, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- An international team of researchers including dozens of Australian scientists have marked the latest discovery over gravitational waves, less than a month after the first observations of the ripples in time and space won the Nobel Prize in Physics. The scientists traced the destruction of two colliding neutron stars via the gravitational waves, whose exact origins or the astronomical events related to their creation were previously unknown, according to a media release from Australia's ARC Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery on Tuesday. "This was the first time that any cosmic event was observed through both light it emitted and the gravitational ripples it caused in the fabric of space-time," center director Professor Matthew Bailes was quoted as saying. "The subsequent avalanche of science was virtually unparalleled in modern astrophysics". The University of Sydney's Associate Professor Tara Murphy led a group that first confirmed the radio emissions from the stars' collision located 130 million light years from Earth, the centre said. Earlier in October, U.S physicists Rainer Weiss, Kip Thorne and Barry Barish won the Nobel Prize in Physics for their work on the detection of gravitational waves, the ripples in spacetime first predicted by Albert Einstein one century ago. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 10:55:08|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- China has made remarkable progresses in quantum science and technology over the past year, leaping to a world leading position in the field of quantum communications. "A major breakthrough," " impressive achievement," "a milestone in the field..." When a series of Chinese scientists' achievements in quantum science and technology were published in the authoritative academic journals such as Science and Nature, their reviewers praised highly. Chinese scientists recently became the first to realize quantum key distribution from a satellite to the ground, and quantum teleportation from the ground to the satellite, laying the foundation for building a hack-proof global quantum communication network. The experiments were conducted with the world's first quantum satellite, Quantum Experiments at Space Scale (QUESS). "The satellite marks a transition in China's role -- from a follower in classic information technology (IT) development to one of the leaders guiding future IT achievements," said Pan Jianwei, lead scientist of QUESS and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). "Satellite-based quantum key distribution can be linked to metropolitan quantum networks where fibers are sufficient and convenient to connect numerous users within a city over 100 km. We can thus envision a space-ground integrated quantum network, enabling quantum cryptography- most likely the first commercial application of quantum information- useful at a global scale," Pan said. The establishment of a reliable and efficient space-to-ground link for faithful quantum state transmission paves the way to global-scale quantum networks, he added. Scientists expect quantum communications to fundamentally change human development in the next two or three decades, as there are enormous prospects for applying the new generation of communication in fields like defense, military and finance. Nicknamed "Micius" after a 5th Century B.C. Chinese philosopher and scientist who has been credited as the first person ever to conduct optical experiments, the 600-kilogram-plus satellite was sent into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 500 kilometers on Aug. 16, 2016. In June this year, Chinese scientists' first achievement based on the satellite was published as a cover article in the academic journal Science. In the experiment, scientists achieved distribution of entangled photon pairs over 1,200 kilometers, demonstrating that quantum entanglement, a phenomenon which is so confounding that Albert Einstein described it as "spooky action at a distance" in 1948, still exists at such a long distance. "So far, this is the most important scientific research progress in my life," said Pan, who has been engaged in the quantum physics for more than 20 years and has been granted the highest natural science award for his achievement in quantum science. "For the first time, we're testing the physical law of the micro world on a space scale, and laying the foundation for exploring more basic laws in physics in the future. The technologies can also be applied in constructing a quantum network," Pan said. Soon after that, the other two achievements including satellite-to-ground quantum key distribution and ground-to-satellite quantum teleportation based on Micius were published in the same issue of Nature on Aug. 10. Karl Ziemelis, chief physical sciences editor at Nature, said that with the publication of these new papers, Pan and his colleagues have completed their demonstration of a trio of quantum experiments that will be central to any global space-based quantum Internet. "I mean you could say that the sky's the limit for quantum technologies, but that is a little bit conservative actually. They've gone beyond the sky with these latest experiments. And it's a testament to China's investments and significant efforts in the physical sciences that this group has been able to push research in practical quantum communication technologies to such an astronomical height," said Ziemelis. Chinese scientists have completed all the experiments designed for Micius a year ahead of schedule. CAS president Bai Chunli said the achievements show China has reached a leading position in the field of quantum communication research. "Micius has ushered in the construction of global quantum communication, the study of space quantum physics and experimental verification of quantum gravity theories. It helps China's race to control the command point of quantum science and technology, and enables China to become a leader in the field," Bai said. As the world marveled at Micius, Chinese scientists have also made breakthrough in quantum computing. Earlier in May, they have built world's first quantum computing machine that goes beyond the early classical -- or conventional -- computers, paving the way to the ultimate realization of quantum computing beating classical computers. On a table of about three square meters in a lab in the Shanghai Institute for Advanced Studies of University of Science and Technology of China, the "baby" quantum computer made up of hundreds of components have nothing in common with people's daily used computer. "Although it cannot even beat the mobile phone in your hands now, it's a great leap for the quantum computer, which one day could defeat conventional computer," said Pan. He said that his team is expected to construct a quantum computer as powerful as the commonly used laptop at the end of this year, and aims to construct one triumphing over the currently most powerful supercomputer in 2020. "A key period for the development of quantum computing is coming, which is like the bamboo shoots popping out after the rain," Pan said. Due to the enormous potential of quantum computing, Europe and the United States are actively collaborating in their research. High-tech companies, such as Google, Microsoft and IBM, also have massive interests in quantum computing research. Chinese scientists are exploring three technical routes: systems based on single photons, ultra-cold atoms and superconducting circuits. During the initial development period of conventional computer from 1940's to 1970's, Europe and the United States took the lead. But in the new wave of quantum computing, China already has a leading edge in some fields. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 11:15:12|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- China will select and honor its best volunteers in a bid to encourage the public to perform more volunteer services, according to a notice released by central authorities. A total of 100 volunteers, 100 volunteer organizations, 100 volunteer projects and 100 neighborhoods providing volunteer services will be selected. The annual event, first launched in 2015, has upheld volunteer role models and shared the good practices of organizations and individuals. The event calls on the public to learn from the spirit of Lei Feng, a soldier who was known for selflessly devoting his time and money to those in need. Lei died in an accident in 1962 at the age of 22. Lei was made a national hero after Chairman Mao Zedong called on the whole nation to "learn from Comrade Lei Feng" in 1963. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 11:15:14|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) - The White House on Monday provided updated details of U.S. President Donald Trump's travel to Asia next month, highlighting U.S. engagement in security and trade in the region. According to the press release issued by the White House press service, Trump's Nov. 3-14 tour will take him to Hawaii, Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. TRUMP'S ITINERARY Trump's visit "will underscore his commitment to longstanding United States alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region," said the White House. In Hawaii, Trump will receive a briefing from the U.S. Pacific Command, and visit Pearl Harbor and the USS ARIZONA Memorial. Trump will arrive in Japan on Nov. 5, where he will meet with U.S. and Japanese service members, and meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The latter will also host a meeting for Trump with the families of Japanese citizens allegedly abducted by Pyongyang. During his visit to South Korea that embarks on Nov. 7, Trump will meet with President Moon Jae-in as well as U.S. and South Korean service members. He is also scheduled to speak at the South Korea's National Assembly to "celebrate the enduring alliance" between the two countries, and "call on the international community to join together in maximizing pressure" on Pyongyang. After his visit to China beginning on Nov. 8, Trump will travel to Danang, Vietnam, on Nov. 10 to participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economic leaders meeting and deliver a speech at the APEC CEO summit. The White House said Trump will "present the United States' vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing America's economic prosperity." On Nov. 11, Trump will travel to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, for an official visit to the country. He will meet with President Tran Dai Quang and other senior Vietnamese leaders. In his final stop of Manila, Trump will participate in the special gala celebration dinner for the 50th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). On Nov. 13, he will join in the celebration of the 40th anniversary of U.S.-ASEAN relations at the U.S.-ASEAN summit, and participate in bilateral meetings with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and other ASEAN leaders. TRUMP'S CHINA STOP On Nov. 8, Trump will arrive in Beijing for a visit to China. He is expected to attend a series of bilateral, commercial, and cultural events, including meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to the White House press release. During his meeting with visiting U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Sept. 30 , Xi said, "Currently the most important event in our bilateral relations is President Trump's China visit in November," adding that, "His visit will be a major opportunity for the development of China-U.S. relations." Xi said China-U.S ties have been generally stable, and that he has maintained sound communication with President Trump. "China attaches great importance to President Trump's visit, and I look forward to working with him to outline and advance our bilateral relations in the years to come," Xi told Tillerson. Xi said the teams on both sides should work closely to make the visit "successful and special." The two presidents of the world's largest economies met in early April at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in the U.S. State of Florida, where they exchanged views on issues of bilateral and global concern. After the meeting, the two leaders also spoke several times by telephone on hot-spot issues including the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula. Investigations are underway into the slaughter of wallabies at Mareeba Turf Club in Far North Queensland, Australia. (Supplied: Tablelands Wildlife Rescue) SYDNEY, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Over 50 wallabies were inhumanely slaughtered and left to rot over the weekend in the Australian State of Queensland, with the gruesome mystery continuing to shock local community. Wildlife rangers who investigated the scene at the Mareeba Turf club told local media on Monday that they initially thought the animals must have been shot, however a more disturbing picture is beginning to emerge. "One particular animal had been hit in the back, its back was broken and it was bludgeoned on the head, vice president of the Tablelands Wildlife Rescue Beth Stern told local media on Monday. "This has been happening for a few weeks and we only found out about it on Friday," he said. "There are close to 100 animals that have been killed." Mareeba Turf Club secretary John Thurlow said the venue had installed a kangaroo fence one month ago and someone has used the barrier to trap the wallabies. "We were allowing the wallabies to become accustomed to [the fence] before we drove them out," he said. "Someone has closed those gates and used our new fence to herd them into an area where they could take pot shots at them." Animal welfare investigators also reported a number of arrow wounds and were horrified to find a number of joeys barely alive in their dead mothers' pouches. "It was a horrific scene for people who care for wildlife," Stern said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 12:10:25|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- "I feel like this is like groundhog day," Canadian development expert John McArthur on Monday said at a seminar focusing on world food security, borrowing a film title which describes a forever repeating day. "The fact that we have to sit here year after year to talk about this issue makes me want to pull my hair out," McArthur, a senior fellow at Brookings Institution, voiced his frustration at the World Food Day event. "The world is off track to meet its own goal of ending hunger by 2030," said a Brookings report released over the weekend. The report took a look at the progress the world is making on ending hunger and reached the conclusion that "the goal is slipping further from view." "Just over two years ago, the international community committed to ending hunger...since then, there have been a few individual successes and reforms," the report said. Statistics from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) supported the report's analysis, indicating that the number of undernourished people in the world increased in 2016, from 777 million to 815 million. The share of undernourished population has increased for the first time since 2002 to 11 percent from 10.6 percent. The World Food Program (WFP) points to parts of Africa, namely Somalia, South Sudan and Nigeria, as countries most vulnerable in the face of food shortages, saying that 20 million people living there are on the brink of famine. Yemen was also cited. In addition to the stagnating effort to reduce hunger, the Brookings report also warned of dwindling resources dedicated to the effort. The Agricultural Orientation Index (AOI), which measures how much governments prioritizes agriculture in their budgets, has registered a fall in recent years, the report found. For all developing countries, the AOI dropped from 0.4 in 2008 to 0.26 in 2015. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the figure has dropped from 0.23 to 0.13, proving that governments have been disproportionately shifting their budgetary priorities away from agriculture. While countries such as Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, Vietnam and Thailand are spending more than the minimum to sustain food and nutrition safety, significant deficits are seen in other developing countries, including populous countries such as India, Egypt and Pakistan. Experts attributed inaction by governments and a lack of a clear action plan, and also pointed to ineffective agriculture policies in some parts of the world. Global organizations should provide specific plans to political leaders, McArthur said. "But many times a clear action plan failed to be presented to governments," he said. Paul Winters, a food expert at the International Fund for Agriculture Development, said that agriculture policies sometimes put too much emphasis on staples, such as rice or corn. "In order to eliminate poverty and boost nutrition, more resources should be poured into other crops," he told the seminar. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 12:15:28|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close TOKYO, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sent a ritual offering to the notorious war-linked Yasukuni Shrine on Tuesday on the occasion of its annual autumn festival. Abe himself is reportedly to refrain from visiting the notorious shrine during the festival in person in an effort to prevent further damage to Japan's relationship with China and South Korea at a time Japan and the region is facing heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Abe once again sent a "masakaki" tree as an offering under the name of the prime minister. The potted tree is used here in ceremonies involving Shintoism. The prime minister left Tokyo for Japan's north on Tuesday morning to deliver campaign speeches in Akita and Yamagata prefectures ahead of the lower house election on Sunday. A number of senior politicians also made ritual offerings to the shrine, including Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Katsunobu Kato, House of Councillors President Chuichi Date and Toshiei Mizuochi, senior vice education minister. Yasukuni Shrine honors 14 Class-A convicted war criminals among 2.5 million Japanese war dead from WWII and is regarded as a symbol of past Japanese militarism. Visits and ritual offerings made by proxy to the infamous shrine by Japanese leaders and officials have consistently sparked strong criticism and hurts the feelings of China and South Korea and other countries brutalized by Japan during WWII. Abe has sent a ritual offering to Yasukuni during its spring and autumn festivals every year since he launched his current administration in 2012. The Japanese prime minister last visited the controversial shrine in person in Dec. 2013, at which time he was strongly condemned by China and South Korea, as well as the United States, who said at the time it was disappointed with Abe's decision. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 12:25:31|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close MEXICO CITY, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Relations between Latin America and China are poised to strengthen over the coming years in various fields, Mexican experts have said. "China is now already the second or top trade partner for all Latin American countries. I think that (position) will continue to consolidate," former Mexican ambassador to China Sergio Ley Lopez told Xinhua. "There is an extraordinary complementarity between Latin America and China, and they will continue to work (together) in that sense," Ley Lopez said. Countries in different regions in Latin America need to spur the economy by exploring new markets, and that will provide impetus for further regional collaboration, said the former diplomat, who is now head of the Asia and Oceania region department at the Mexican Business Council of Foreign Trade, Investment and Technology. Raquel Leon de la Rosa, a research professor at the Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla (BUAP) based in central Mexico, said China's ties with the region have evolved from being primarily financial and political to being multidimensional. "As part of China's relationship with Latin America there is what's called an 'omnidimensional' outlook, with cooperation in various fields, not just in politics and economic, but also in cultural and educational aspects," said De la Rosa. China's relationship with Latin America is no longer "just about loans" or investments or "limited to economic matters," she said, adding that "increasingly more Latin Americans are seeing China through academic exchanges." The growing number of Confucius institutes running in Latin America giving courses on the Chinese language and culture also indicates Latin Americans' growing interest in the Asian country, she said. The strengthening of ties between China and the region is evident in the growing bilateral trade as well as in the upgrading of relations, such as the forging of a comprehensive strategic partnership with Mexico and Argentina, said De la Rosa. Today, China is the region's second-largest source of imports and third-largest export destination, showed the latest report from the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). In 2000, Latin America accounted for 3 percent of China's total exports and 2 percent of China's imports. By 2013, those figures rose to 6 and 7 percent, respectively, said the report. MEXICO, GATEWAY TO LATIN AMERICA Paulo Carreno King, head of Mexico's investment promotion agency ProMexico, said China is promoting reforms to spur not only domestic growth, but also global development, creating an "attractive opportunity for interaction." "Mexico is the gateway to Latin America. Mexico is the path to Latin America we see for China," he said, who believes the two countries can take advantage of their complementarity to enhance trade and investment in Latin America. Mexico boasts a privileged geographical location, bordering the United States in the north and the Central America in the south, and a variety of trade agreements with other economies. "For us, China will always be an attractive and vigorous market," said the Mexican business figure. Due to a more restricted trade policy currently adopted by the United States, Mexico is bent on diversifying its export markets and China "is a strategic player" in that scenario, noted Carreno. The two countries' comprehensive strategic partnership has led to doubled exports for Mexico, he said. Stable contacts between Mexico and China have been instrumental in bolstering bilateral ties, former ambassador Ley Lopez said. "Many high-level dialogues...between the two countries have also led us to practically have common development policies, and one of them is to spur small- and medium-sized enterprises," he said. Ley Lopez noted that Mexico is "very interested in the mechanism created in China through Alibaba," a Chinese e-commerce giant. He said Mexico can also benefit from the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, which is aimed at building trade and infrastructure networks in countries along ancient Silk Road trade routes to seek common development and prosperity. In his opinion, the initiative serves as a gateway to global free trade and sustainable development, and shows China is today "more focused on investment, infrastructure and development, instead of solely on trade." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 13:10:41|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A firing incident in Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has left three people killed and two others injured, local media reported Tuesday. The incident happened on Tuesday morning when some unknown gunmen sprayed bullets at a car and fled the scene, local TV channel ARY News reported. The killed people including two brothers who were going somewhere in their car when the attackers ambushed their vehicle and attacked it. The attack happened in Dera Ismail Khan area of the province, which lies close to the country's lawless tribal belt. Police is investigating about the motive of the firing. No group or person has claimed the killings so far. The injured people have been rushed to a nearby hospital. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 13:15:42|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- An activist affiliated with pro-India ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a militant were killed during a shootout in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said Tuesday. The political activist identified as 50-year-old Muhammad Ramzan Sheikh was attacked inside his house, while as the militant was killed after being reportedly hit by bullet of the accomplice in melee when Sheikh's family members entered a physical brawl with them. The killings took place at Homhuna - Imam Sahib village of Shopian district, 52 km south of Srinagar, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir. "Late last evening militants belonging to Hizbul Mujahideen fired upon a former rural body head. However, following the attack family members of the slain entered into a scuffle with the militants, which resulted in his killing," a police official posted in the district told Xinhua. "Apparently it seems militants in order to scare away the family members fired further shots, one of which hit their own companion." The slain militant was identified as Showkat Ahmad Kumar of Hizbul Mujahideen militant outfit. Earlier this month militants killed a political worker and a policeman in the region inside their houses. Militants in the region usually target families and individuals for their possible links with Indian police and defense agencies. Even people having associations with pro-India political parties are targeted at times. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 13:40:47|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is set to open at 9 a.m. Wednesday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. China National Radio, China Central Television and China Radio International will live broadcast the opening ceremony. Viewers can also access the event at several web portals including www.people.com.cn and www.xinhuanet.com. A total of 2,287 delegates have been selected from across China to attend the congress. The CPC national congress, usually held every five years, unveils new leadership and sets a blueprint for national development for the next five years and beyond. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 13:45:48|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close KABUL, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A total of 26 militants of Haqqani terror group were killed after Afghan Special Forces launched airstrikes against their hideouts in eastern province of Khost, authorities said Tuesday. "On a confirmed tip off, Afghan Special Forces carried out airstrikes on Haqqani positions at around 16:54 (local time) Monday in Jaji Maydan district, Khost province, killing 26 members of terrorist group," the command of Special Forces said in a statement, adding several militants' hideouts were also destroyed following the raids. As a Taliban-linked group of militants, the Haqqani network mostly operating in eastern provinces and capital Kabul, has been responsible for many high-profile attacks against security forces. The elimination of the targeted militants would further improve the public security in the eastern provinces, the statement added. The network, which was designated as terrorist group by the United States in 2012, has yet to make comments. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 13:50:50|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close NEW DELHI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A leader of rightwing Hindu nationalist party Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was shot dead Tuesday in northern Indian state of Punjab, police said. The 58-year-old Ravinder Gosai was gunned down by unidentified assailants near his house in Ludhiana city. "Today morning at around 7:20 (local time) unidentified gunmen fired upon Ravinder Gosai when he was returning from local RSS office," a police official said, adding "though he was rushed to hospital, doctors there declared him dead." Reports said the assailants were riding a motorcycle and fled immediately following the attack. Locals said Gosai was also office bearer at local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office. Police have registered a case and ordered investigations into the killing. RSS is considered as ideological fountainhead of BJP. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 14:20:57|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close KABUL, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A suicide bomber blew his explosive device next to a police training center in Gardez city, the capital of eastern Afghanitan's Paktia province and paved the way for more insurgents to attack the center, the interior ministry said in a statement released here. Police have cordoned off the area and operations are underway to eliminate the attacking insurgents, the statement said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 14:41:04|Editor: liuxin Video Player Close SEOUL, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump will make a two-day state visit to South Korea next month to hold a summit meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and deliver a speech to the National Assembly, Moon's office said Tuesday. Park Soo-hyun, spokesman for Moon, told a press briefing that Trump will arrive in South Korea in the morning of Nov. 7 and leave the country in the afternoon of Nov. 8. During the first day of his state visit, Trump and Moon will hold a summit meeting at the presidential Blue House, before having a joint press conference in the Blue House. A state dinner will be held later in the day, with various friendship events to be prepared. On the second day, the U.S. leader will give a speech to South Korean lawmakers. During his National Assembly speech, Trump is expected to talk about stronger South Korea-U.S. alliance, responses to the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula and the situations in the peninsula and the Northeast Asia, the spokesman said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 14:51:07|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close KUNMING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Foreign participants began competing in the "Chinese Bridge" language proficiency competition for secondary students on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province. After qualifying competitions held between March and August worldwide, the final rounds of competition in China have attracted 320 teachers and students from 96 countries, according to Zheng Yi, deputy head of the provincial education department. In the next 10 days, the group and individual participants will compete in quarter-finals, including competitions in spoken Chinese, Chinese culture and art performance, before entering the final round. The winners will be awarded scholarships for overseas study in China. "I discovered the charm of Chinese characters when I was a kid. I will try my best to learn Chinese and become a doctor to combine traditional Chinese medicine with Western medicine in the future," said Lindsay Berat, a student from the United States. Since 2002, Beijing-based Confucius Institute Headquarters has organized a series of "Chinese Bridge" language competitions. In recent years, more and more foreigners have started learning Chinese. A total of 516 Confucius Institutes and 1,076 Confucius Classrooms have so far been established in 142 countries and regions, introducing Chinese language and culture to people all over the world. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 15:11:10|Editor: ying Video Player Close MANILA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine media reported on Tuesday that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte had declared the liberation of the southern city of Marawi after nearly five months of fighting. The government-owned People's Television reported Duterte's declaration that Marawi has been retaken from pro-IS extremists. Another local news outlet ANC quoted Duterte as saying "I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from the terrorists." The Malacanang presidential palace has yet to issue official confirmation. According to the news reports, Duterte arrived in Marawi on Tuesday to congratulate the Philippine security forces for retaking the city from pro-IS extremists. "Our declaration of liberation of Marawi is a strategic statement to tell the world that the war with IS is over," Col. Romeo Brawner, one of the military commanders on the ground, told reporters in Marawi. Brawner, however, said clearing up operations will continue to rid the areas with improvised explosive devices and other unexploded ordnance laid out by the retreating militants. Duterte's statement came a day after the killings of Isnilon Hapilon, the alleged leader of IS in Southeast Asia, and Omarkhayam Maute. At dawn on Monday, the government troops killed the two top IS leaders who led the jihadist extremists that took over the city on May 23. The fighting dragged for nearly five months and has killed more than 1,000 people, including more than 800 extremists and 162 soldiers and policemen. The 148-day conflict has also displaced the city's more than 200,000 residents and about 300,000 more outside Marawi City, the capital of Lanao del Sur province. The military said at least 47 civilians have been killed by the terrorists. The health department said in July that 40 civilians died of sickness in government-run evacuation centers in nearby provinces. Thousands of evacuees are still housed in the centers. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 15:41:14|Editor: ying Video Player Close KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Malaysian government is studying proposals from three companies, which asked to resume the search operation for the missing Malaysia Airlines MH370, said a Malaysian senior official on Tuesday. Malaysia's Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai told reporters that the three proposals, offered by U.S. company Ocean Infinity, Dutch company Fugro and a Malaysian local company respectively, are being discussed by the government and experts. According to Liow, Ocean Infinity has offered a "no-find, no-fee" condition while the other two also offered low price charges. He did not give a deadline for the discussion of the details, but said that any final decision will be made by the MH370 Tripartite meeting along with governments from China and Australia. "We won't decide anything now on whether we are embarking on a new search or not," Liow said. The three governments suspended the search operation in January after almost three years' efforts in a 120,000-square-km area in the Southern Indian Ocean failed to find any sign of the wreckage of the plane. But a report from the Australian Transport Safety Board released recently noted that the understanding about the location of MH370 was now "better than ever." MH370, a Boeing 777 carrying 239 on board, went missing en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing on March 8, 2014. iStock/Thinkstock(WASHINGTON) -- About 50 ISIS fighters were killed in U.S. military airstrikes in Yemen targeting two training camps in the country's central region. One of the camps had gained notoriety last week as the scene of an ISIS training video that showed images of ISIS recruits appearing to be kicked in the groin to demonstrate their physical toughness. "U.S. forces killed dozens of ISIS members in a strike on two ISIS training camps, Oct. 16, in Al Bayda Governorate, Yemen, disrupting the organization's attempts to train new fighters," the Pentagon said in a statement. "ISIS used the camps to train militants to conduct terror attacks using AK-47s, machine guns, rocket-propelled grenade launchers and endurance training," it added. A U.S. official said the American airstrikes were the first targeting ISIS in Yemen, a country better known as the home of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). The U.S. military has conducted more than 100 airstrikes this year against AQAP, almost triple last year's strikes. Carried out mostly by drones, the strikes are part of an increased effort to rein in the al Qaeda affiliate's terror and territorial ambitions. Both manned and unmanned aircraft were involved in Monday's airstrikes against the two ISIS camps that were about 20 miles apart, said the U.S. official. One of the camps earned notoriety last week in an ISIS propaganda video that showed a line of ISIS recruits seeming to be kicked in the crotch to demonstrate their mental and physical toughness. Some local fighting groups in Yemen first aligned themselves with ISIS in 2014, the year that ISIS had its most significant territorial gains in Iraq and Syria. "Strikes against ISIS targets disrupt and destroy militants' attack-plotting efforts, leadership networks, and freedom of maneuver within the region," said the Pentagon statement. Yemen is involved in a civil war where military forces from Gulf allies have been fighting against Houthi rebels to restore Yemen's government to power. That power vacuum led to a resurgence by AQAP and the emergence of ISIS in Yemen. "ISIS has used the ungoverned spaces of Yemen to plot, direct, instigate, resource and recruit for attacks against America and its allies around the world," said the Pentagon statement. "For years, Yemen has been a hub for terrorist recruiting, training and transit." The U.S. military coordinates with the Yemeni government to carry out counterterrorism operations in Yemen against ISIS and AQAP to prevent both groups from carrying out external terror attacks and limit the territory they control in Yemen. Copyright 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 15:51:18|Editor: An Video Player Close SHIJIAZHUANG, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A total of 110 tombs dating back more than 2,000 years have been discovered in northern China's Hebei Province. The tombs were used to bury the remains of children, and archeologists estimate there might be 500 to 700 more such tombs in the surrounding area. The graveyard located near the Fudi city ruins in Huanghua, Hebei, is dated between the Warring States (475-221 B.C.) period and the reign of Emperor Wu (156-87 B.C.) in the Han Dynasty. Zhang Baogang, curator of the Huanghua city museum, said the tombs were all of the urn burial type, featuring urns made of pottery. It is the largest such burial site ever found in China. Archeologists started to excavate the tombs and preserve the artifacts in August. "The earthen coffins were buried 3 meters underground. Most of the skulls were well preserved because the squashed earthenware helped squeeze out oxygen," Zhang said. He said archeologists had collected samples of the remains for lab research to determine the gender and age of the people buried. They will also carry out tests on DNA and the children's teeth. Zhang said archeologists were curious why there were so many children buried together. Many were only two to three years old, with others just a few years older. Skull and foot bones were separately arranged in two small pots, with the main body sections put in larger drum-like pots. Zhang said there were composites of sea shell found in the clay earthenware. Huanghua is located on the west coast of the Bohai Sea. People accordingly used local materials for making the urns. He said there were no other burial objects found in the tombs except some silk which decayed quickly after the tombs were opened. The earthenware also decayed with the red ones decaying faster than the black ones. Adults were only found in six of the tombs. Li Jun, an archeologist from Shanxi University, said such a large child burial suggested the children were concentrated for a specific purpose. A Chinese legend says that first emperor Qin Shi Huang sent the explorer Xu Fu to sail east and find the Peng Lai Island to seek immortality. Xu is said to have taken 5,000 children and young workers with him. The Xu Fu legend is shared in China, Korea and Japan, and there are commemorative events held every year for the legendary explorer. In Japan he is worshipped as a deity. Li said the ancient city of Fudi in Huanghua might have been a temporary settlement for Xu Fu's team. He gave three possible reasons for the child deaths -- sacrifice, pandemic plague or exhaustion from hard work. Bai Yunxiang, deputy director of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Institute of Archaeology, said this urn burial type appeared as early as the Neolithic period in China, with the custom spreading to the Korean Peninsula and Japan during the Warring States period. In Japan, there are urn burial sites dating back to the Yayoi Period (300 B.C.-250 A.D.) found in Saga prefecture on the island of Kyushu. Zhang said that Chinese archeologists would carry out exchanges with peers in Japan and the Republic of Korea, after they finished lab tests on the remains. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 16:11:27|Editor: An Video Player Close Hi, here's what you should know about China for the past 24 hours. BEIJING -- The 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is set to open at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. A total of 2,287 delegates have been selected from across China to attend the congress. The CPC national congress, usually held every five years, unveils new leadership and sets a blueprint for national development for the next five years and beyond. - - - - WASHINGTON -- China's outward-looking vision will continue to bring about win-win scenarios for China and its partners across the world, including the United States, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai said on Monday. In an article published on CNN.com, Cui noted that China will hold the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China this week, which will set China's national direction for at least the next five years. - - - - NANJING -- Chinese scientists on Monday announced observation of the "optical counterpart" of gravitational waves coming from the merger of two binary neutron stars using a survey telescope in Antarctica. The Chinese telescope independently observed optical signals resulting from the merger the next day, according to the Chinese Center for Antarctic Astronomy. - - - - KUNMING -- Foreign participants began competing in the "Chinese Bridge" language proficiency competition for secondary students on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province. After qualifying competitions held between March and August worldwide, the final rounds of competition in China have attracted 320 teachers and students from 96 countries, according to Zheng Yi, deputy head of the provincial education department. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 16:26:31|Editor: ying Video Player Close SEOUL, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- South Korea on Tuesday expressed its worry about Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ritual offering to the notorious war-linked Yasukuni Shrine on the occasion of Japan's annual autumn festival. Foreign Ministry spokesman Noh Kyu-duk told a press briefing that a responsible Japanese politician sent an offering once again to the Yasukuni Shrine beautifying the history of an aggressive war. Noh said the South Korean government expresses its concern about the action. The war shrine honors 14 Class-A convicted war criminals among 2.5 million Japanese war dead during World War II and is seen as a symbol of the militarist Japan. Visits and ritual offerings made by proxy to the infamous shrine by Japanese leaders and officials have consistently sparked strong criticism and hurt the feelings of China and South Korea and other countries brutalized by Japan during the Pacific War. Noh urged the Japanese government to show its humble introspection and self-reflection with sincere actions based on a right perception of history. Abe last visited the controversial shrine in December 2013, when his visit enraged China and South Korea in addition to strong backlash from the United States, which said it was disappointed with Abe's decision. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 16:46:38|Editor: Zhou Xin Video Player Close Tuo Zhen, spokesperson for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, holds a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China will conclude on Oct. 24, a spokesman said Tuesday. The five-yearly event will open at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Tuo Zhen, the spokesman for the congress, told a press conference. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 16:46:39|Editor: ying Video Player Close TOKYO, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Japan and the United States agreed in talks on Tuesday that focus should be kept on a diplomatic solution to address the current tensions on the Korean Peninsula. In talks held in Tokyo, Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Shinsuke Sugiyama and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan said that cooperation between regional countries is also important to bring about a denuclearized Korean Peninsula. "Cooperation between Japan and the United States, and that between Japan, the United States and South Korea, are more important than before to put diplomatic pressure (on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea) to the maximum level," Sugiyama was quoted as telling a press briefing after the talks. Sugiyama added that "while working with China and Russia, we will try to urge North Korea (DPRK) to change its current policy course." Sullivan, for his part, told a press briefing on the matter that Washington's primary focus remained on a diplomatic solution to tensions on the Korean Peninsula. He said the principal focus at the U.S. State Department is on a diplomatic solution and that Washington will continue its pressure campaign in a bid to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula. The pair also discussed U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to Japan, slated to begin from Nov. 5 among other matters, informed sources said. Sugiyama and Sullivan will travel to South Korea later Tuesday to hold trilateral talks with South Korean Vice Foreign Minister Lim Sung-nam the following day. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 16:51:41|Editor: An Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- China on Tuesday told Japan to squarely face and reflect on its past aggression, following Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ritual offering to the notorious Yasukuni Shrine. Abe sent a masakaki tree as an offering to the shrine on Tuesday, which was the date of its annual autumn festival. Abe will reportedly refrain from visiting the shrine in person during the festival. "China's stance on the Yasukuni Shrine issue is clear and consistent," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said at a regular news briefing. "China has demanded Japan properly handle the issue and gain trust from its Asian neighbors and the international community through concrete action." China has repeatedly expressed opposition to Japanese leaders making offerings and visiting the shrine. The shrine honors 14 Class-A convicted war criminals among 2.5 million Japanese war dead from WWII and is regarded as a symbol of Japan's past militarism. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 16:56:42|Editor: ying Video Player Close TRIPOLI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- More than 8,000 illegal immigrants have been repatriated from Libya this year, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Monday. "8,438 stranded migrants have so far in 2017 received voluntary humanitarian return assistance home from Libya." IOM said. Some 138 repatriation trips for immigrants took off from Libya within the voluntary return program carried out by IOM to arrange the return of stranded migrants in Libya. The deported migrants include 6,850 men and 1,588 women, IOM said. The Libyan Anti-IS Operation Chamber of the western city Sabratha on Sunday said that more than 7,000 immigrants have been deported. Sabratha, some 70 km west the capital Tripoli, is one of the largest smuggling hotspots in Libya and Africa, according to international reports. Smugglers take advantage of the state of insecurity and chaos in Libya to send thousands of migrants in rickety boats crossing the Mediterranean to European shores. Libya is a departure point for African migrants, especially from Chad, Niger, Mali and Sudan, to reach the southern shores of Europe through the Mediterranean. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 17:06:49|Editor: Zhou Xin Video Player Close Tuo Zhen, spokesperson for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, holds a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The credentials of 2,280 delegates to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China have been approved, a spokesman for the congress told reporters Tuesday. Turkish military jets striked PKK positions in northern Iraq on Tuesday, killing eight militants. (Xinhua Photo) ANKARA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Turkish jets and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) targeted Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) positions in northern Iraq, killing eight militants, the military announced in a statement on Tuesday. The military said that six of the militants were killed by jets in northern Iraq's Zap region, while two were killed by UAVs. Meanwhile, two Turkish soldiers were killed and two others were wounded in a blast caused by an improvised explosive device planted by PKK militants in Zap, Iraq. Military units continue to scan the area to find militants, the statement added. The Iraq's Zap region has frontier with Turkey's southeastern Hakkari province, which is a main base for Turkish government to strike outlawed PKK militants, who has been striving for the establishment of an independent Kurdish state by armed combat since 1970s. The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU, has resumed its armed campaign against the Turkish government since July 2015. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 17:37:04|Editor: ying Video Player Close A man looks at the image of the architectural concept design for Bangi-Putrajaya Station of Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (KL-SG HSR) in Malaysia, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Oct. 17, 2017. MyHSR Corporation on Tuesday unveiled the architectural concept designs for the seven stations of the KL-SG HSR in Malaysia here. The seven stations include Bandar Malaysia, Bangi-Putrajaya, Seremban, Melaka, Muar, Batu Pahat and Iskandar Puteri. (Xinhua/Chong Voon Chung) KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia has commenced the land acquisition process for Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (KL-SG HSR), and has approved the public inspection exercise which will start next month, said the country's Prime Minister Najib Razak on Tuesday. Najib said that MyHSR Corporation (MyHSR Corp), the Malaysian government's project delivery vehicle for the rail project, has submitted its applications to the relevant government authorities for land freezing purposes, an essential process to study the viability of the pre-selected areas. "Then these selected areas are further defined to reflect public's feedback on the alignment," he said when delivering his speech during the launching of the HSR station designs in Malaysia. Najib also said the Malaysian government has approved the Railway Scheme which paves the way for the public inspection exercise that will begin on Nov. 1 for a duration of three months. "This exercise serves as a channel for the public to share their feedback, suggestions or raise any concerns regarding the project and the proposed alignment," he added. According to MyHSR's commercial director Tonny Yeap, the actual land acquisition is expected to start at the middle of 2018. "We will need to take into account of all the feedback that we receive from the public and do the assessment. Should there are no further changes, we will on track to have the land acquisition sometime in the middle of next year," he told reporters during the press conference. Meanwhile, MyHSR's chief executive officer Mohd Nur Ismal said, as of today, up to 200 companies have shown their interests in participating in the rail project. "These companies are from all over the world, including some Chinese parties," he said. MyHSR on Tuesday unveiled the architectural concept designs for the seven stations of the KL-SG HSR in Malaysia. The seven stations include Bandar Malaysia, Bangi-Putrajaya, Seremban, Melaka, Muar, Batu Pahat and Iskandar Puteri. "The designs of each station were conceptualized to reflect not only the diverse heritage, culture and identity of each city along the HSR corridor, but also demonstrates the growth vision that will be accomplished with the KL-SG HSR," said Malaysian government chief secretary and MyHSR's chairman Ali Hamsa. Malaysian and Singaporean governments signed a bilateral agreement in December last year to construct the high speed rail between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The construction is set to complete by 2026. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 17:47:11|Editor: Zhou Xin Video Player Close Members of Armed Forces of the Philippines patrol in Marawi, the Philippines, on Oct. 17, 2017. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared victory over Islamic State (IS)-linked extremists that took over the southern city of Marawi in May, ending nearly five months of fierce fighting that have killed more than 1,000 people and displaced thousands. (Xinhua/Jef Maitem) MANILA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared victory over Islamic State (IS)-linked extremists that took over the southern city of Marawi in May, ending nearly five months of fierce fighting that have killed more than 1,000 people and displaced thousands. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from the terrorist influence that marks the beginning of rehabilitation," Duterte said in a speech to the troops and officials in Marawi. Duterte arrived in Marawi to congratulate the Philippine security forces for wresting the city from IS-linked extremists. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Restituto Padilla said on Tuesday that there are still about 30 "armed elements or strugglers" in Marawi. Among the remaining six to eight foreign terrorists is Malaysian Mahmud Ahmad, the alleged financier of the terrorist group with links to IS jihadist group in the Middle East, he said. Padilla added that there are still about 60 to 80 extremist-occupied buildings that need to be cleared. AFP chief of staff Gen. Eduardo Ano said Marawi has been declared liberated. "The small number of the remaining enemy can now be considered a law enforcement matter and does not constitute serious threat to hinder the succeeding phases of national government programs," Ano said. "What remains now is mopping up operations against Maute-ISIS stragglers in a small area. We can now begin the next phase which is damage assessment which is part of rehabilitation and reconstruction," Ano said. Hours after the May 23 terrorists' attack, Duterte declared martial law for 60 days on the entire island of Mindanao. In July, Philippine legislators voted overwhelmingly to extend martial law until the end of the year to deal with Islamist insurgents. On Sept. 21, Duterte said that he would lift the martial law once the Marawi conflict is over and cleared of militants. Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told a radio interview that they are currently conducting assessment whether to lift or continue imposing martial in the Mindanao region. Ano said on Tuesday that martial law should continue in the region, saying there are still extremist groups operating in the southern Philippines. "But if everything is already okay, we will recommend to (Duterte) for the lifting of martial law," Ano told a radio interview. Aside from the Maute group, the Philippines also battles with other IS-linked groups like the Abu Sayyaf militants in the island provinces of Sulu and Basilan and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguinao, a province in central Mindanao. The military said the Abu Sayyaf group has up to 400 fighters while the BIFF has up to 300. Col. Romeo Brawner, one of the military commanders on the ground, told reporters in Marawi that the declaration of liberation of the city "is a strategic statement to tell the world that the war with IS is over." Brawner, however, said clearing up operations will continue to rid the areas with improvised explosive devices, booby traps, and other unexploded ordnance laid out by the retreating militants. After the mopping up operation is completed, the rehabilitation will start to eventually pave the way for the return of the displaced city residents, he said. Duterte's declaration came a day after the killings of Isnilon Hapilon, the alleged leader of IS in Southeast Asia, and Omarkhayam Maute. At dawn on Monday government troops killed the two top IS leaders who led the jihadist extremists that took over the city on May 23. The two along with Maute's brother, Abdullah, with the help of Indonesian and Malaysian extremists, took mover the city since. The fighting dragged on for nearly five months and has killed more than 1,000 people, including more than 847 extremists and 163 soldiers and policemen. Ano said on Monday the deaths of Hapilon and the last of the remaining Maute brothers signaled the end of the IS-linked extremist groups particularly in the southern Philippines. "We have nipped the budding terrorism (in the country), and stamped out the leaders of the Daesh-inspired terrorist group. We will not allow terrorism to reign in Marawi city or elsewhere in the country," Ano said, adding that killings of the two "means their center of gravity has crumbled." The AFP called on Tuesday for a heightened security and increased vigilance in the wake of the killings of top pro-IS leaders. Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, the commander of the AFP's Eastern Mindanao Command, directed all military units to raise their alert level and "prevent possible reprisal from the so-called "Maute-ISIS sympathetic groups after the deaths of Hapilon and Maute." "We ask everyone to be vigilant and to report to the authorities any suspicious activities in their respective communities," said Guerrero. The 148-day conflict has also displaced the city's more than 200,000 residents and about 300,000 more outside Marawi city, the capital of Lanao del Sur province. The military said at least 47 civilians have been killed by the terrorists. The health department said in July that 40 civilians died of sickness in government-run evacuation centers in nearby provinces. Thousands of evacuees are still housed in the centers. The militants have also taken hostage several residents and used them as shield or forced them to fight the troops, the military claimed. Months of airstrikes and heavy fighting have severely damaged many of the city's infrastructure, including buildings and houses. Television footage and images revealed the huge destruction in Marawi. Large swaths of the city, especially in the central business district, are a pock-marked moonscape of heavily damaged buildings, shops and houses. Once the city is cleared of homemade bombs and unexploded ordnance, Duterte said the rebuilding and rehabilitation will start to pave the way for the return of thousands of displaced residents. It will take billions of pesos to rebuild the ruined city, according to Defense Secretary Lorenzana, adding that the extent of destruction is far greater than expected. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 18:22:21|Editor: ying Video Player Close DAMASCUS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are fighting the Islamic State (IS) group in their last position in Syria's northern city of Raqqa, a source close to the Kurdish forces told Xinhua on Tuesday. The SDF, heavily backed by the U.S.-led anti-terror coalition, is fighting IS in the city's local stadium, following capturing the national hospital of the city, deemed as the de facto capital of the terror-designated group. The foreign IS militants are the ones fighting till the end. Declaring the city free of IS is a matter of time only, the source added. When capturing the stadium, the SDF will control all of Raqqa, defeating IS in its main stronghold in Syria, the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. This happened days after the local fighters of the IS along with civilians in that city evacuated under a deal with the SDF. IS declared Raqqa as its de facto capital in 2014, after announcing their self-styled caliphate in Syria. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 18:32:25|Editor: Zhou Xin Video Player Close Tuo Zhen, spokesperson for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, holds a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The agenda for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has been set at the preparatory meeting for the congress, spokesman Tuo Zhen said Tuesday. Xi Jinping presided over the preparatory meeting at the Great Hall of the People, which was attended by 2,307 Party delegates and specially invited delegates. There are a total of 2,354 delegates and specially invited delegates to the congress. A 22-member delegate credentials committee was approved at the meeting. A presidium of the congress consisting of 243 members was also approved. Attendees also approved the organizational setup and tasks of the secretariat of the congress. Liu Yunshan was appointed secretary-general of the congress. Tuo, spokesman for the 19th CPC National Congress, told a press conference that the agenda includes: -- To hear and examine a report submitted by the 18th CPC Central Committee; -- To examine a work report of the 18th Central Commission for Discipline Inspection; -- To deliberate and adopt an amendment to the Party's Constitution; -- To elect the Party's 19th Central Committee and its 19th Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. The congress will open at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, and conclude on Oct. 24, the spokesman said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 18:32:26|Editor: ying Video Player Close Photo taken on Oct. 17, 2017 shows the site of a suicide attack at a police center in Gardez city, capital of Afghanistan's eastern Paktia province. Suicide attack against the police in Afghanistan's eastern Paktia's provincial center Gardez city left 16 people including six attackers dead and 32 others injured on Tuesday, spokesman for provincial government Abdullah Hasrat said. (Xinhua/Ahmadi) GARDEZ, Afghanistan, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Suicide attack against the police in Afghanistan's eastern Paktia's provincial center Gardez city left 16 people including six attackers dead and 32 others injured on Tuesday, spokesman for provincial government Abdullah Hasrat said. The attack was followed by gun battle and lasted for several hours. Earlier, an official on condition of anonymity said that 20 people including police and civilians had been killed and 160 others injured in the attack. Meanwhile, hospital sources in Gardez city have confirmed that more than a dozen dead bodies and more than 100 injured persons have been taken to civil hospital. "A six-member group of terrorists attacked police facilities including police headquarters and training center at around 9:30 a.m. local time which triggered gun battle and lasted for few hours claimed the lives of 16 persons including a senior police officer and six attackers and injured 32 others," Hasrat told Xinhua. One of the attackers, according to the official, blew himself up next to the police headquarters's gate and facilitated the remaining five to enter the compound and begun indiscriminate shooting. Security forces soon cordoned off the area and retaliated, as a result all the six attackers were killed in the firefight and blast. "Ten people including the provincial police chief Toryali Abdiani and few civilians were killed," Hasrat confirmed. He also said that majority of the victims including injured persons are civilians who were waiting in queue to apply for passport and national identity cards. Taliban outfit which has been fighting to regain power and re-impose its strict law on Afghans has claimed responsibility for the attack, insisting the armed group inflicted huge casualties on police in Gardez city. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 18:42:30|Editor: ying Video Player Close Afghan security force members take part in a military operation in Helmand Province, southern Afghanistan, Oct. 16, 2017. At least 91 militants were killed and 27 others injured amid Afghan security forces operations across the country over the past 24 hours, the defense ministry said Tuesday. (Xinhua/Abdul Aziz Safdari) KABUL, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- At least 91 militants were killed and 27 others injured amid Afghan security forces operations across the country over the past 24 hours, the defense ministry said Tuesday. "Afghan National Defense and Security Forces launched military and cordon operations in 13 of 34 Afghan provinces in the past 24 hours, killing 91 armed militants and injuring 27 others," the ministry said in a statement providing daily operational updates. Among those killed militants were four Islamic States (IS) militants. The security forces also found and seized weapons, the statement said, without adding if there were any casualties on the side of security forces. Afghan security forces have beefed up security operations against militants as the country is facing upsurges in attacks by Taliban and IS militants. However, the militants responded by armed attacks and bombings. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 19:12:46|Editor: An Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- When people acknowledge the 25th International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, much credit ought to be given to China. China has a remarkable record of lifting about 700 million people out of extreme poverty in more than three decades since reform and opening up began, a figure that represents about 70 percent of global poverty eradication in the period. In the past five years, it has reduced the number of people living below the poverty line, per capita annual income of 2,300 yuan (348 U.S. dollars), by an average of 13 million each year, or 20 people every minute. The achievement is not simply a byproduct of China's fast economic growth and industrialization but the results of a deliberate and persistent state-sponsored project. Since the late 1970s, China has initiated several long-term poverty alleviation projects, established a government agency for poverty relief and allocated special funds. The least-developed regions were identified and for decades received financial, technical and personnel support from the central government and richer neighboring regions. In 2013, the poverty relief policy, which offered standard financial and policy support to the least-developed regions, was replaced by more diversified and tailored policies catering to different situations and the needs of the poorest people. Those who live in regions of inhospitable natural environment, for instance unaccessible mountains and dry land, have been encouraged to move to new homes provided by the government. About 10 million people are expected to relocate by 2020. Those with resources and skills have received favorable industrial policies and financial assistance to either develop local business or migrate to more developed regions for better paid jobs. To facilitate such policies, the government increased its input and tried to attract investment from the private sector. Billions have been allocated to assistance funds and about 800,000 officials been sent to help locals improve their livelihood. Progress also resulted in the reform of property rights. In the past few years, transaction of land use rights has allowed farmers to pool their land and set up larger scale cooperatives, sharpening their competitiveness and increasing their income. Despite impressive progress, China could not take a chance on relaxing the campaign. The current leadership promised to eliminate absolute poverty in rural areas by 2020, which means raising the income and welfare of about 43 million people. As Liu Yongfu, director of the State Council Leading Group Office of Poverty Alleviation and Development, admitted, the last bit of extreme poverty in China will be the hardest to remove. This usually involves people with few skills and resources, including the disabled and elderly, living in areas short of natural resources, vulnerable to environment change and disasters, and the least industrialized. To realize this poverty relief goal will require intensive capital input and, more importantly, leadership. The poverty relief campaign in the next few years will pose a tough test for policy design and implementation. Several problems found in previous campaigns still need solving, such as improving the efficiency of assistance funds, and encouraging participation of local people instead of just passively receiving donations. If it succeeds, the plan will be another major contribution by China to human rights development of the world. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 19:22:48|Editor: ying Video Player Close JAKARTA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian trade ministry has set up a plan to boost exports to non-traditional markets which have shown higher growth recently, Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukita said on Tuesday. The minister urged investors in the country to invest in non-traditional market which will generate the demand for raw materials and products needed for the investment activities from Indonesia. "We encourage investment in several nations, it will positively effect on exports," he said on Tuesday. Lukita revealed that the government's plan to expand export to the non-traditional market has shown progress. According to the national statistics bureau, shipments of products to the nations classified as non-traditional market has grown at a faster pace in September though its value remains low. Indonesia's exports to Turkey and Egypt rose 17.22 percent and 44.83 percent respectively in September, the bureau said. Indonesia is the world's largest exporter of thermal coal, crude palm oil, and the world's third largest exporter of cocoa and rubber, as well as the world's second-biggest home to copper mine. In 2016, the country's export reached 144.43 billion U.S. dollars with 135.65 billion U.S. dollars import, according to the bureau. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 19:27:51|Editor: An Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- China's civil aviation industry witnessed an average growth of 11.2 percent in flight hours over the past five years, data from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) showed Tuesday. Annual flying time has soared to 10.5 million hours, up from 6.19 million hours, over the past five years, with total number of civil planes increasing to 3,177 from 1,922, said Tang Weibin, an official with the CAAC. By the end of 2016, the transport volume of passengers and goods by civil flights has surged to 1.53 times and 1.23 times, respectively, that of 2012, according to Ji Yuan, another CAAC official. Regular air routes in China reached 3,794 by the end of last year, 54.4 percent higher than 2012. From August 2010 to the end of last month, China's civil aviation industry's total safe flying time has accumulated to over 54 million hours, with no casualty registered, the best air traffic safety records by far. China has had the world's second largest civil aviation industry in terms of air transport scale for 12 consecutive years, after the United States, said Ji. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 19:42:57|Editor: Mengjie Video Player Close Velusamy instructs students during a yoga course. (Xinhua/Hu Chao) by Xinhua writer Sudeshna Sarkar BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- When Subbulakshmi Velusamy started learning yoga in her home city of Chennai in southern India more than a decade ago, the Indian graduate in physics looked for no greater benefits than enjoying good health naturally. But today, beyond expectations, the ancient Indian holistic system of well-being has given her a flourishing career, taken her on an adventure abroad, and turned her into a China-India ambassador. "Back home in India, people are amazed that I live on my own in China," said the 37-year-old, who works as an assistant professor of yoga at the China-India Yoga College at the Yunnan Minzu (Nationalities) University in Kunming, the picturesque southwest Chinese city not far from India. "'How do you manage,' they ask me, 'especially when the language is so difficult?' I tell them, people speak the language of kindness there. Everyone I have met has been so kind and friendly, going out of the way to help," said Velusamy. Velusamy recalls one occasion when she asked for directions. The people she approached, unable to communicate through language, walked her to their destination almost 1 km away. Her China adventure started following an agreement between the Chinese and Indian governments, which led to the opening of the yoga college in 2015. As part of the agreement, two Indian teachers were to be employed at the college to teach the practical as well as philosophical aspects of yoga, and Velusamy was selected by a panel after a grueling interview in New Delhi. By that time she was no longer just dabbling in yoga, she had obtained a PhD in yoga as a therapy for treating hypothyroidism, especially in women. Hypothyroidism is a condition created by low levels of the thyroid hormone, whose effects could range from a slower heartbeat to fatigue and depression. "I was learning more about yoga practices, delving into its philosophy and Indian spiritualism, and I wanted to share what I had learned," she said. "So when I was selected for the job in China, it was like a dream coming true. I had this larger society which I could introduce our Indian culture to." She was amazed at the popularity of yoga in Kunming. "The interest is growing by the day," she said. "There are so many yoga centers and studios in Kunming, with most of them run by Chinese teachers." Her students at the university are Chinese and she said she is also overwhelmed by their interest. "I don't think I have seen so much interest in India," she said. "And it's not only among youngsters." On Saturdays, the college hosts a free yoga session open to the public and Velusamy said people in their 50s and 60s flock to it. Besides her classes, Velusamy likes to display other aspects of Indian culture, such as Indian clothes and cuisine. "In class, I always make it a point to wear salwar-kameez," she said, referring to the traditional baggy trousers worn by Indian women with a long tunic and a scarf. On the day Xinhua spoke with her, she was dressed in an eye-catching yellow tunic. On special occasions, she brings out her saris, the traditional Indian wear that consists of one long unstitched swath of cloth that could be up to nine yards (27 feet) long and is worn draped skillfully around the body in a variety of ways. Southern India, from where Velusamy comes, is famous for its silk and cotton, in rich, vibrant colors. While to many foreigners, Indian food means curry first and foremost. Tamil Nadu, Velusamy's home state, has a distinctly different cuisine, which uses lots of coconut and lentils. She has introduced her friends in Kunming to the dosa, a crispy paper-thin wrap that can come with a spicy potato filling, and is eaten dipped in a tangy soup and a special sauce or chutney. "My students are especially interested in healthy Indian food that doesn't use oil," she said. "They like the 'khichdi' (a dish that is a complete meal in itself, made by boiling rice with lentils and vegetables). We share recipes and that is another form of cultural exchange." Velusamy has picked up "survival Chinese" during her 11-month stay in Kunming and what she cannot manage with words is accomplished through body language and, as she emphasizes, "the kindness" of the people around her. Her China sojourn has also helped project an image of the modern Indian woman as independent, professional and with an identity of her own. Velusamy lives in Kunming with her six-year-old daughter. Since her husband works in Chennai, the couple meet during their holidays, when he comes to China or she goes home. Twenty years ago, this would probably have been unimaginable in the average family in southern India, which has very strong traditions. They included keeping the girl child sequestered when she had her monthly periods. Wives' place was at home. While a woman could accompany her husband if he went abroad on work, it was unthinkable that she would take up a job overseas when it meant separation from the family. "My family has been very supportive," Velusamy said. "At one point of time I will have to go back to India because of my daughter's education but now, she goes to a Chinese school, my college is happy for me to stay on as long as I want to, and my family stands behind me." She came to China as an Indian cultural ambassador. When she goes back, Velusamy, with her knowledge of Chinese culture and her interactions with the Chinese, will act as a Chinese envoy as well. "I will convey to Indians how people treated me in China," she said. "Everyone has been kind and friendly. I haven't had any conflict with a single person." "Besides the friendship and courtesy that I was shown here, I also found China a very safe place, especially for single women," Velusamy said. She has been traveling in China on her own and despite not having complete mastery over the Chinese language, has always felt safe and well-looked after. "This is my experience in China," Velusamy said with a dazzling smile. "Finding kindness and security." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 19:42:59|Editor: ying Video Player Close by Bedah Mengo NAIROBI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Calls for Kenyan Opposition leader Raila Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta to dialogue over the raging political crisis are getting louder, but the leaders have seemingly shut door on talks. Kenyatta and Odinga have maintained their tough positions for and against the repeat elections, with the former insisting the polls would go on while the latter reiterating that they would only take place if reforms are instituted. None of them is ceding ground some eight days to the elections that are set to leave Kenyans more divided than never before. Alarmed by the deteriorating situation, various organizations and individuals have called for dialogue to end the standoff that has seen dozens of opposition supporters killed. On Monday, the European Union joined the long list of organizations that are calling for dialogue between Odinga and Kenyatta. The EU mission on Monday said that talks between the two could unlock the deadlock and steer the country to the right direction, as they cautioned that Odinga's "no election" threat and Parliament's enactment of amendments to electoral laws were a threat to peaceful polls. "We appeal for meaningful dialogue between leaders to address issues before them for the country to come out of the current political quagmire. We also believe that no matter is big for the two to resolve if they engage in dialogue," Federation of Kenya Employers Executive Director Jacqueline Mugo said on Monday. Other calls for dialogue have come from the clergy, who asked Kenyatta to be a symbol of national unity and talk to Odinga to save the nation from sinking into a political abyss. They also told Odinga to show Kenya his leadership skills by agreeing to dialogue over contentious issues to end the stalemate. However, Odinga and Kenyatta have not shown any indications that they may talk, with each dismissing the other in public. "We will not dialogue with the Opposition, they went to court and canceled our win. The court said we go back to the polls which they are now boycotting. The decision of who will lead this country would be made by Kenyans," said Kenyatta at a rally on Sunday. Odinga, on the other hand, dismissed Kenyatta and his Jubilee's claim that he is interested in talks so that they can form a coalition government. "We are not interested in half a loaf, we want the full bread because we won the elections on Aug. 8," said Odinga. The lieutenants of the two leaders have reinforced their tough stands, with those of Kenyatta's party Jubilee rules out any talks. "Odinga should know we are not ready for talks. The only dialogue we want is for the 40 million Kenyans going to the ballot in the next few days," Anne Waiguru, a Jubilee governor said. However, several political leaders and observers still believe that there is chance for dialogue between Odinga and Kenyatta even as Kenya stares at an election boycotted by the opposition. "At the point we are at, we need to have an all-inclusive dialogue, not just between the two leaders alone but even the other stakeholders including the civil society," said Martha Karua, the leader of Narc-Kenya Party. Karua noted that Kenyan leaders should turn the looming crisis into an opportunity to reason together as a nation and address what ails the electoral process. Professor James ole Kiyiapi, a former permanent secretary and a presidential candidate in 2013, noted that Kenya is treading on dangerous grounds and it is time everyone speaks. "We can't keep quiet. We remind the custodians of power that it is not too late to halt the madness. Our society is in deep socio-political turmoil, we must deal with the deep-seated issues to bring healing, justice and lasting stability," he said, adding that Jubilee and NASA lieutenants should stop and think and not let the narrow political interests overwhelm them. In 2008, when Kenya degenerated into violence after a disputed poll, Kenyan leaders Odinga and the then President Mwai Kibaki dialogued to end the stalemate. Leading the talks was the former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan, which led to the formation of a coalition government. "Kenya has been this path which is familiar to the current leaders and they can dialogue if they so wish but I believe the place we are now has not reached where we were in 2007. Kenyatta has said there is no crisis, and this is the reason why perhaps dialogue has been given a wide berth. But there is still room for it," said Henry Wandera, an economics lecturer in Nairobi. A woman pours a glass of beer during the 4th Athens Craft Beer Expo in central Athens, capital of Greece, on Oct. 15, 2017. (Xinhua/Lefteris Partsalis) ATHENS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Greek beer lovers and foreign visitors flooded Zappeion exhibition hall in the center of Athens this weekend to taste the unique products of a new industry which flourishes in Greece in the years of the debt crisis: micro brewing. About 40 exhibitors from across the country presented their labels next to brewers from countries where microbrewery has made strives, such as the Netherlands, Britain, Italy and the United States. More than 100 labels were put on display during the 4th Athens Craft Beer Expo "Zythognosia" (Knowledge of Beer), organizer Constantine Stergidis, head of Vinetum Wine Communications, told Xinhua. In 2009 the Hellenic Association of Brewers which supported the event, had six members. Currently there are about 40 microbreweries across Greece and their number is on the rise, he said. "What is interesting about Greek beer right now is that we are at the beginning of the beer craft movement in Greece. This is a country which was dominated by big brands and in the past no more than five years we have seen a huge amount of small breweries being created in different parts of Greece," Stergidis noted. Stergidis, as well as many microbrewers, attributed the small "miracle" which is unraveling in the sector to the debt crisis to a large extent. The crisis which has hit Greece hard since 2009 forced many Greeks to change careers, while consumers turned to local products in many cases to support the ailing local economy. "Many Greeks because of the recession they are looking for things to do. And making a small brewery, a micro brewery, at first it seems easy. It is not like wine, when you can make wine once a year, so every mistake is fatal," Stergidis explained. The initial investment does not exceed 100,000 euros (118,000 U.S. dollars), he said. Why should a Greek or foreigner consumer choose the product of a Greek micro brewery over a foreign label? Because they are offering beer lovers a different flavor, Stergidis stressed. The products of the Greek small breweries are beers of high quality, of different styles and aromas which are made based on new recipes from local products. During "Zythognosia" visitors had the opportunity to taste innovative products, like the dark beer which was aged in a barrel that used to hold red wine. Although the products from microbreweries make up only a very small part of the market (almost one percent) according to the Hellenic Association of Brewers, they gradually gain popularity in Greece and abroad. "I think that there is a future for exports. Maybe it is not as big as that of wine because there are so many local breweries all over the world that it is difficult for Greek beers to compete against them. Maybe in Greek restaurants, because we are very lucky to have a very vibranyt Greek restaurant ethnic scene abroad, so maybe in those restaurants Greek craft beers will have a future," Stergidis said. Oenologist Sofoklis Panagiotou, co owner of Septem brewery and President of the Hellenic Association of Brewers, is already exporting about 23 percent of his annual production which reaches up to 1.2 million bottles. Septem is a family run business set up in 2009 by Sofoklis and his brother at their homeland in Evia, two hours drive northeast of Athens. After working for 13 years in the wine production he wanted to try something different and return to his homeland, Panagiotou told Xinhua. "We first came up with the idea to establish a micro brewery in 2005. We wanted to make beers which will be similar to wine, beers which will have flavor and aroma and will be different from the monotonous products available on the market," he explained. "We wanted to create something in our homeland and promote this land as much as we can," he said. Visitors queue to taste beers during the 4th Athens Craft Beer Expo in central Athens, capital of Greece, on Oct. 15, 2017. (Xinhua/Lefteris Partsalis) Panagiotou brothers have already won more than 30 international awards for the brews they produce in their homeland. Yorgos A. is a newcomer in the sector. He is one of the three young scientists who launched Strange Brew and produced their first beer this May and their second label in September. They produce about 1.5 tons of beer per month. Yorgos is an engineer, while his friends and business partners are mathematicians. They started as amateur home brewers and gradually decided to turn their hobby into a business. "We purchased the first kits in 2009 and we started making beers at home, because we were tired of the beers we could find on the market. We were looking for something different," he told Xinhua. Yorgos took up a postgraduate course on the Science of Wine and Beer at the technical university of Athens when they made the decision to invest more time, money and effort in micro brewing. "Amid the crisis in Greece, traditional professions have been severely affected, so we explored the prospects of getting involved in production... We want to experiment and create something innovative, new, interesting, not boring," he said. Yorgos is confident that his products and the products of the emerging Greek micro brewery industry will one day be acknowledged by more and more beer lovers abroad. "We believe that gradually we will manage to look in the face from the same eye level other markets in Europe," he said. Visitors of the Athens exhibition gave Greek brewers high marks. "There were many new Greek beers presented and some of them were very interesting," Nikos S. told Xinhua. "It is pretty good. It is a good place, a lot of good beer," Christopher B., said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 19:48:02|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close JAKARTA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Transport Ministry of Indonesia is planning to raise floor prices for low-cost carriers in an effort to boost flight safety, a minister said here on Tuesday. Indonesian Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi said that the ministry will soon unveil new rules on the price hike. "Safety is number one. We must seriously apply it. It has been the time for us to carry out a calculation," he said at the presidential office. Sumadi said that the hike will range from 5 to 10 percent and it must be first coordinated with all stakeholders in the sector. The country has witnessed some air accidents in recent years involving some budget airliners. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 20:08:10|Editor: An Video Player Close GUANGZHOU, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A cutting-edge domestic steam generator Tuesday departed for the first demonstration nuclear power project using Hualong One technology, a domestically developed third-generation reactor design. The Hualong One ZH-65 steam generator has a life span of 60 years with lower outlet humidity and a higher power-weight ratio than previous technology. "The generator has demonstrated China's latest nuclear power equipment manufacturing technology," said Zeng Xianmao, chairman and general manager with the Dongfang Electric (Guangzhou) Heavy Machinery, producer of the generator. The generator was developed by a team led by Zhang Fuyuan, chief designer at the Nuclear Power Institute of China. It was designed for the No. 5 unit of Fuqing Nuclear Plant in Fujian Province, a project of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). The government has approved the Fuqing project to build six nuclear power units. The No. 5 and 6 units will be a pilot project also featuring Hualong One. In May, a hemispherical dome, weighing 340 tonnes and measuring 46.8 meters in diameter, was installed by crane on the No. 5 unit, marking the start of the assembly stage. The installation of the dome ranked first in projects on progress in nuclear science and technology, according to the annual conference of the Chinese Nuclear Society on Monday. Hualong One was jointly designed by China's two nuclear power giants, China General Nuclear Power Group and CNNC, and passed inspection by a national panel in August 2014. China has 37 operational nuclear reactors and is building a further 19. China is aiming to have 88 million kw of nuclear power capacity in operation or under construction by 2020. The current level is just under 57 million kw. On Sept. 1, China's legislature passed a nuclear safety law, reflecting the country's careful safety outlook and commitment to its international obligations. There are now four projects using Hualong One design under construction, including two reactors in Karachi, Pakistan. A contract was also signed in May for the construction of the Hualong One design in Argentina. The country has promoted the Hualong One at home and abroad. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 20:08:11|Editor: ying Video Player Close MADRID, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A Spanish military aircraft, a F16 jet, has crashed at Torrejon Air Base near the Spanish capital, state-run EFE news agency reported Tuesday. The accident took place at 11:00 a.m. local time (0900 GMT) when firemen and emergency services rushed to the scene. The pilot was confirmed dead, according to police. This was Spain's second accident in less than a week. On Oct. 12, an aircraft crashed upon landing at the Los Llanos Air Base, killing the pilot who was participating in Spain's national day military parade. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 20:08:13|Editor: ying Video Player Close MADRID, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Spanish civil guards arrested Tuesday a woman accused of recruiting and indoctrinating jihadist fighters in order to send them to Iraq and Syria, the Spanish Interior Ministry said. The arrest took place in Palamos town in the province of Girona, the same province the majority of the members of the terrorist cell behind the Aug. 17 terror attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils were from. According to the ministry, the 21-year-old "formed part of an international network of people loyal to the Islamic State who participated in forums to recruit women to send them to conflict zones." It added that the woman had undergone an "online process of self-radicalization, consuming propaganda from jihadist groups with extraordinarily violent content." The arrest brings the number of suspected jihadists detained in Spain to 61 during 2017 and to 249 since the beginning of 2015. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 20:28:17|Editor: ying Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan on Tuesday strongly condemned the terrorist attack that targeted the police training academy in Gardez, the capital of Afghanistan's Paktia Province, in which many precious human lives were lost while a number of innocent people were injured. Afghan officials said up to 20 people, including policemen and civilians, were killed and 160 others injured in a suicide attack on a police center. "We are deeply saddened and grieved at the loss of precious lives in the dastardly attack. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones in this brutal terrorist attack and to the government and the people of Afghanistan," Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman said. "Pakistan reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all forms and manifestations and reaffirms its commitment for continued efforts and cooperation for eliminating this menace," the spokesman said in a statement. About 3,250 people, including 1,130 civilians, have been killed during the four-month-long battles to free Syria's Raqqa from IS. (Xinhua Photo) DAMASCUS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- As many as 3,250 people, including 1,130 civilians, have been killed during the four-month-long battles in Syria's Raqqa, a monitor group reported on Tuesday. Children and women were among the killed civilians, as the rest of the death toll is for IS militants and SDF fighters, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The UK-based watchdog group said 80 percent of Raqqa has been destroyed due to the battles, which ended on Tuesday with the SDF capture of the city. Talal Silo, the spokesman of the SDF, told Xinhua that the military operations in Raqqa have ended, adding that the city is liberated from IS, but the fighters are still mopping up the city in search of mines and possible sleeper cells. IS declared Raqqa as its de facto capital in 2014, after announcing their self-styled caliphate in Syria. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 20:43:23|Editor: An Video Player Close ATHENS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) will set another milestone in the long and historic road of China's outstanding transformation, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias has said. "A quick glimpse at the last five years reveals the remarkable progress, both domestically and internationally, that China has achieved under the successful leadership of President Xi Jinping," he said in a written statement to Xinhua. "Therefore, I see the 19th National Congress as another milestone in the long and historic road of the outstanding transformation of China," he told Xinhua ahead of the key meeting, which opens Wednesday in Beijing. The CPC has led China since its first national congress in Shanghai in 1921 and has now paved a new path -- socialism with Chinese characteristics -- for the development and prosperity of a modern China that is open to the world, he said. "I rest assured that regardless of the specific outcome of the 19th National Congress, the Chinese people will continue to follow the prudent path of gradual modernization of the New China, a major and indispensable actor for global prosperity and stability," he said. "In other words, using the Chinese popular saying and wisdom, I expect the Chinese leadership to keep 'crossing the river by touching the stones,'" the minister said. "I, personally, and the Greek people will follow with genuine interest this prominent event, while looking forward to further enhancing our excellent bilateral relations with China, our friend and strategic partner," he said. Kotzias said Greece and China, as cradles of the Western and Eastern civilizations respectively, share a special relationship that has lasted thousands of years and is based on mutual respect and understanding. "This unique relationship has been the foundation upon which we initiated, together, the Ancient Civilizations Forum," he said, noting that the forum "is now gaining further momentum ... as an important forum for bolstering dialogue and cooperation on cultural issues." The Greek official also said his country staunchly supports the unity of China, fully respecting the one China policy and Beijing's stance on Taiwan, as well as the "one country, two systems" practice. "As the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China ... is about to kick off, I think that the whole world will follow with close interest its rulings and deliberations," he said. "I wish the participants and the Chinese people every success." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 20:58:29|Editor: ying Video Player Close JAKARTA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo has given his full supports to the police's plan to set up a special squad against corruption, the president's spokesman said on Tuesday. "The authority (the squad) is in the police. The president's only concerns were on swift and massive moves in the nation's efforts to eradicate corruptions," Indonesian presidential spokesman Johan Budi said. The initiative to form such a squad was initially put forward by the police at a hearing in the parliament last month. The squad is expected to commence its operation early next year. Conveying the president's advises on the planned police's anti-graft squad, Johan said it must have the capability to push forward the nation's efforts against corruption, and coordinate with the anti-corruption commission KPK and the Attorney General Office. Inspector General Bambang Sunarwibowo, the Indonesian police chief's planning deputy, told lawmakers last month that the police anti-corruption squad was intended to help improve anti-graft institutions in investigating and interrogating corruption suspects. The KPK had made series of arrest against senior government officials, governors and regents involved in corruption cases in the past years. The arrests were conducted by the squad teams deployed by the KPK through covert operations to nab corrupt officials red-handed when they received bribe money from their bribers. Indonesia charges both the bribers as well as officials who receive bribes in corruption courts. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 21:03:31|Editor: An Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- What can a two-dimensional barcode, or QR code, be used for in China? The answers are varied, from mobile payment to unlocking shared bikes or adding friends on messaging apps. But apart from making everyday life more convenient, there is one unexpected and creative use -- helping the country's battle to alleviate poverty. In Shiban Village, southwest China's Guizhou Province, every impoverished family was given a code, including Chen Dingming's family. While traditional means of gathering information about those living under the poverty line can be difficult and inhibit the adoption of targeted relief measures, the new technology provides an easier solution. With one scan, the status of the Chen family is shown: a meager annual income of 2,600 yuan (nearly 400 U.S. dollars), 50 square meters of living space and one child with cerebral palsy. The QR code also stores information about each household's farm produce, which can be shared on the internet and reach buyers all over the country. Thanks to the system, the value of the region's specialty products sold online currently amounts to 200,000 yuan, not a large sum of money but a good start for residents who have struggled under the poverty line for years. Rural areas that used to be isolated due to poor transportation infrastructure are now forging ever closer ties with markets in other parts of the country, taking advantage of the booming e-commerce sector. On the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) website, a digital map of China shows impoverished rural areas and provides links to online stores backed by local governments. From Tibetan dried beef to pickled cabbage from northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, a variety of agricultural products from 221 impoverished counties are now available. Fifteen e-commerce businesses, including Taobao and JD.com, are offering services for these rural stores, with marketing support and lower or no fees. The MOC plans for the program to cover all national-level impoverished counties suitable for developing e-commerce by 2019. The official program is not the only way for poor regions to take part in e-commerce. Internet firms are scrambling to increase their presence in the countryside, pouring money into improving logistics, building service centers and training farmers. Jin Jianhang, president of Alibaba, said more than 800 national-level impoverished counties sold goods worth nearly 30 billion yuan via Alibaba last year, with 40 counties each reporting sales over 100 million yuan. In the bigger picture, online retail sales in all impoverished regions jumped 55 percent to 71.6 billion yuan in the first eight months of the year, the MOC data showed. The growth outpaced the average of all rural areas by 17 percentage points. The fruitful combination of e-commerce and poverty relief was largely attributed to government efforts to bolster rural infrastructure and create favorable conditions. A document released by the central authorities in November 2016 included measures to improve roads, broadband services, power supply and logistics, as well as support for farmers to set up online stores. The MOC said a total of 12.5 billion yuan has been allocated for 756 counties, mainly in less-prosperous central and western regions, to develop the e-commerce sector since 2014. E-commerce has lifted China's poverty relief efforts to a new phase, said Qu Jiang of Zhejiang University's rural development institute. "An environment will be created for impoverished rural areas to achieve sustainable development, with less reliance on external aid and stronger internal impetus." Poverty reduction has continued to be a priority for the Chinese government in recent years and remarkable progress has been made. Some 6.39 million people annually have been lifted out of poverty over the last 15 years of the 20th century. An ambitious goal has been set to eradicate poverty by 2020, which means roughly 10 million rural people must be lifted out of poverty each year. As the poverty alleviation efforts are in full swing, e-commerce is expected to play an even greater role. At a meeting last month, Vice Premier Wang Yang said the government should make e-commerce more targeted and effective in reducing poverty to benefit more people, promising stronger policy support and a more favorable business environment. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 21:13:39|Editor: ying Video Player Close LONDON, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The number of the recorded hate crimes soared by 29 percent over the past year in England and Wales as the EU referendum and Westminster bridge terror attack exacerbated the situation, latest figures released by the Home Office showed Tuesday. The figures showed that over 80,000 offences were committed in England and Wales over the last 12 months, up from over 62,518 in the previous year. The latest number represented the largest jump since records began in 2011. Race was deemed to be a motivating factor in nearly 80 percent of recorded hate crime incidents, while sexual orientation contributed 11 percent, religion accountable for 7 percent. Some hate crimes had more than one motivating factor, the Home Office said. It also revealed there was a "genuine rise in hate crime around the time of the EU referendum" and after the Westminster Bridge terror attack in March that killed five people. Provisional police figures show that the number of crimes, which increased after the Westminster Bridge attack, continued to climb until June as the Manchester Arena, London Bridge and Finsbury Park attacks followed. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 21:28:45|Editor: ying Video Player Close GENEVA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The UN refugee agency UNHCR on Tuesday said over 14,000 migrants and refugees were held captive by smugglers in and around the Libyan coastal city of Sabratha. The people were held in different locations, including farms, houses and warehouses, said UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic at a UN media briefing. "Libyan authorities estimate that an additional 6,000 migrants and refugees are still being held by smugglers," said Mahecic. If confirmed, this would bring the total number of refugees and migrants held in Sabratha to 20,500, including those in official detention centers. "UNHCR colleagues on the front lines describe a picture of human suffering and abuse on a shocking scale," said Mahecic. Sabratha is some 80 km west of Tripoli and is a main departure point for migrant boats attempting to make the perilous journey across the Mediterranean Sea to Europe, the UN migration agency International Organization for Migration (IOM) said. UNHCR's Mahecic said that among those who suffered abuse at the hands of smugglers, are pregnant women and new-born babies. "Hundreds of people were discovered with no clothes or shoes. Scores of them are in need of urgent medical care, with some suffering from bullet wounds and other visible signs of abuse," said the UNHCR spokesperson, adding "Refugees and migrants who were rescued from the smugglers are visibly traumatized." According to the spokesperson, most of the victims said that they were subjected to numerous abuses, including sexual and gender-based violence, forced labor and sexual exploitation. The refugees and migrants were taken to a hangar in the Dahman area in Sabratha serving as an assembly point since the onset of the crisis. From there authorities are transferring them to official detention centers where humanitarian agencies are providing lifesaving assistance. IOM spokesperson Joel Millman said his agency strongly advocates for alternatives to detention. He quoted Othman Belbeisi, IOM Libya chief of mission as saying, "We are concerned about the large number of migrants transferred to detention. The centers are overcrowded and the conditions do not meet the minimum international human rights standards." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 21:38:47|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close LHASA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- From a shepherd to the chairman of a construction company in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, 61-year-old Penjolondru spent more than 40 years lifting himself put of poverty to become a household name in his hometown. Penjolondru was born in 1956 to a poverty-stricken family in Nakartse County in Lhasa, where he started to help his father graze sheep and cattle while he attended primary school. In 1981, Penjolondru decided to leave his hometown and work as a carpenter apprentice at a house building company in Lhasa. After years of study, in 1989 Penjolondru started up his own business and established a house construction company with 19 colleagues. Since 1992, Tibet has seen a rapid economic growth with a double-digit growth rate. Local authorities poured investment into the region's facilities and schools construction as well as conservation of historic buildings each year. Penjolondru remembers opportunities being everywhere in Lhasa at that time, and his company expanded fast. Nowadays, his company has 27 construction teams across Tibet and has employed nearly 15,000 people. Although Penjolondru's life has vastly improved since his humble beginnings, his hometown is still stricken by poverty. Located at about 4,500 meters above the sea level, Lhunposhol Village in Nakartse has a population of 6,640, 25 percent of whom live in poverty. There is little arable land and villagers depend on livestock raising for living. After Chinese central authorities in 2015 made a promise to lift the remaining 55 million rural poor out of poverty by 2020, large-scale poverty relief programs have been launched across the country. In Tibet, about 470 local companies participated in the region's poverty alleviation work to help lift 690,000 people out of poverty by 2020. In 2016, Penjolondru also signed an agreement with Lhunposhol to lift1,700 villagers out of poverty. In 2016, his construction company hired 109 impoverished people from Lhunposhol and paid each person an annual salary of 22,000 yuan (more than 3,300 U.S. dollars). In the same year, Penjolondru invested over two million yuan into the construction of a weaving factory in the village and will purchase all products at a market price from local weavers. In Lhunposhol, women used to make pulu, a traditional Tibetan wool textile, but due to the lack of a proper market, fewer of them were engaged in the traditional craft, which faced the danger of being lost. The factory now employs 216 women. By working in the factory during the slow season, and at home during the busy season, these weavers' monthly income increased to 3,000 yuan on average. The factory has also set up a training center to help more impoverished women master the weaving skill. "My families used to depend on the living subsidiaries from local government. We never thought about finding a job," said Metog, who received training classes in the center last year. She bought a weaver machine later and weaves pulu in the night whenever she is free, earning 2,000 yuan in the first two months. Penjolondru believes education can change people's fate. In 2016, he set up an education fund to help poverty-stricken students in the village. On October 9, several days before China's National Poverty Alleviation Day on Oct. 17, Penjolondru was awarded a prize in Beijing for his contribution to local poverty-relief work. "I have benefited a lot from Tibet's economic growth in the past years. It is my turn to give back to my hometown," said Penjolondru. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 21:43:50|Editor: ying Video Player Close TRIPOLI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed and four others injured in clashes on Tuesday in the Libyan capital Tripoli between security forces and "criminal groups," according to security and medical sources. The clashes broke in Ghararat area in eastern Tripoli between the Special Deterrence Force and armed groups, who attempted to free a detained leader, a security source said. The Special Deterrence Force earlier said they took control of the Ghararat area, announcing it as a "closed military zone." "Many of the criminals have been arrested in Ghararat area. The area is now being fully secured," the Force said. A medical source in the Ministry of Health confirmed that two fighters from the armed groups were killed and four others were injured, adding that the death toll is likely to rise "as ambulance teams are unable to access the area of clashes." The Special Deterrence Force said that one of their security personnel was killed in the clashes. Flights at the nearby Tripoli International Airport were temporarily suspended for the second time in 24 hours because of the clashes, but were resumed a few hours later, airport security told Xinhua. The source said that the Special Deterrence Force closed all areas surrounding the airport "until the area is fully secured." Flights were also suspended on Monday for a few hours after "gunmen fired right outside of the airport, threatening the security of the passengers and airplanes," a security source told Xinhua. Libya suffers security vacuum and unrest since the uprising that toppled former leader Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011. The country is plagued with chaos and political division. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:03:56|Editor: ying Video Player Close HARARE, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- At least half a million people have so far registered to vote in next year's general elections since biometric voter registration (BVR) started a month ago, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said Tuesday. ZEC chief elections officer Constance Chigwamba was quoted by the state broadcaster ZBC as saying that a total of 485,827 people had been registered to vote in next year's polls. The figure, however, excludes submissions from 610 out of the 2,591 voter registration centers as at Oct. 15, 2017. ZEC is targeting to register 7 million voters in the 2018 polls, up from 6.8 million in the 2013 elections. Chigwamba said the 610 centers could not submit their figures by Oct. 15 due to connectivity and communication challenges. She said some of the registration officials have to drive long distances to get to places that have networks or fixed mobile phones to convey their statistics. Voter registration at static district centers began on Sept. 18 while the national mobile blitz commenced on Oct. 10. A total 2, 697 BVR kits have been deployed for the exercise. Zimbabwe is using BVR technology for the first time. However, political parties have expressed concern at the slow pace of the registration exercise. Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, 93, will seek re-election in next year's polls after his party endorsed him as its presidential candidate. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:03:57|Editor: An Video Player Close ZHENGZHOU, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- More than 70 representatives from seven countries met Tuesday to discuss details of a joint work team to deepen cooperation on China-Europe cargo train services. Railway authorities from China, Belarus, Germany, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Poland and Russia are attending the first meeting of the joint work team in Zhengzhou, capital of central China's Henan Province. The team was established in April, when the seven parties signed an agreement to push for railway line interconnectivity, services, and customs clearance efficiency. During the three-day meeting, representatives will discuss topics such as establishing the work rule for the joint work team, a plan for the next year, time and place for the team's next meeting and procedures for new member enrollment, according to China Railway Corporation. The China-Europe freight train service was launched in 2011 and has grown rapidly. It has become an important part of the Belt and Road Initiative. To date, more than 5,000 cargo trains have traveled on 57 lines. Initially seen as an efficient way to deliver Chinese goods to the marketplace, more than 50 percent of the trains have now returned from Europe fully loaded. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:08:58|Editor: ying Video Player Close RAMALLAH, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian consensus government on Tuesday started restructuring its ministries and departments in the Gaza Strip as part of an Egyptian-brokered reconciliation deal reached last week. The announcement was made in an official statement issued after Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah chaired a weekly meeting of his cabinet in the West Bank. It said that specialized committees in the government's establishments, crossing points and security organs in the Gaza Strip have started functioning. "The government has a comprehensive plan to hand over all its ministries in the Gaza Strip," said the official government's statement, adding that starting from next week, cabinet meetings will be held in both Gaza and the West Bank. On Monday, a Palestinian governmental committee started the procedures of handing over the crossing points in the Gaza Strip, in accordance with the last agreement signed in Cairo last week. Last Thursday, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah Party and Islamic Hamas movement signed a reconciliation agreement to start the process of reconciliation to end a decade-long internal Palestinian division. According to the agreement, Hamas, which has been ruling the Gaza Strip since 2007, agreed to hand over control of the coastal enclave to the consensus government and to the Palestinian National Authority (PNA). The two parties agreed that by December 1, the PNA would practically have a full control of all the ministries, departments, security and crossing points, either with Israel or with Egypt. On Monday night, Abbas chaired a meeting of the executive committee for the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to discuss the last reconciliation deal reached in Cairo between Fatah and Hamas. An official statement issued after the meeting said the PLO supports the reconciliation agreement and called on the two parties to fully implement it until the complete end of the internal division. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Tuesday the Israeli government's decision to build 31 housing units in the city of Hebron in southern West Bank. In an official statement emailed to reporters, the ministry slammed the move as settlers' aggression on the Palestinians. "Settlement activities increase the Israeli security measures, that are taken against the Palestinians in the West Bank, mainly an increase of roadblocks and a destruction to their daily life and their properties," said the statement. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:08:59|Editor: ying Video Player Close NAIROBI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Kenya on Tuesday launched a funds drive to help victims affected by the bomb attack that took place on Saturday in Somalia capital, Mogadishu. Kenya's foreign affairs minister Amina Mohamed said the funds drive seeks to raise resources towards emergency response and livelihood recovery. "Today we launch Kenyans for Somalia and call upon Kenyans of goodwill to support our brothers and sisters in Somalia. The urgent needs include medical attention, psychological support as well as short and long term support to those rendered destitute," Mohamed said during the launch of the drive in Nairobi. She said Kenya has already donated 11 tonnes of assorted medicine and two planes to airlift 31 people with injuries for treatment in the country. "Our hope is to raise enough funds and support the injured and their families," Mohamed said. "We may not tell right now how much money is needed to support these families. We appreciate, however, the need to defray expenses for medical attention, psychological and social support as well as short-to-long term requirements of those rendered destitute," she said. The humanitarian effort is coordinated by the Kenya Red Cross who has received a special appeal for assistance from its counterpart Somali Red Crescent. The move comes as search and rescue operations are still ongoing at the site of the attack in the restive Mogadishu city and the number of casualties may rise thus necessitating wide scale support of all kinds. The attack has so far left some 279 people dead and another 350 nursing different kinds of injuries, prompting urgent emergency response from humanitarian agencies operating in Somalia. "The people of Somalia and specifically those directly affected by the attack are in dire need of all our support. A good neighbour will deny himself one or more things to support a neighbor in more need and as Red Cross and Red Crescent movement, we always stand together during such humanitarian crisis," Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Abba Gullet said. Meanwhile, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has condemned the Saturday's deadly attack in Mogadishu which has claimed innocent lives. "The evil people who planned and executed this heinous crime do not understand, clearly, the pride, strength and determination of the people of Somalia to overcome tragedies and emerge even stronger and more determined," Kenyatta said in his condolence message to his counterpart in Somalia, President Mohammed Farmajo. He said Kenya recognizes that the scale and cruelty of the abhorrent crime on Saturday was staged to strike fear and despondency in the people of Somalia, calculated to undermine the progress of the Federal Government in state building. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:14:01|Editor: An Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- China's top universities should not copy the standards of their Western counterparts in the new push for excellence through the country's Double World Class project, a university's Party secretary said Tuesday. "The selected universities must represent Chinese characteristics while reaching world-class levels," said Xu Wu, Party secretary of the University of Science and Technology of China, based in Hefei, capital of east China's Anhui Province. "The most important thing is the adherence to Party leadership," said Xu, one of the more than 2,200 delegates to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which will open in Beijing on Wednesday. "Universities must stick to the mission of training the builders and successors of the socialist cause," said Xu. In September, China unveiled the Double World Class project aimed at building 42 world-class universities and several hundred world-class disciplines covering 95 universities. Prior to the project, the Chinese government evaluated its universities via the "211" and "985" projects launched in the 1990s. The 211 project aimed to raise education standards in about 100 colleges and universities during the 21st century, hence the number 211, and the 985 project, named after its launch date in May 1998, endeavored to select the cream of the crop from those institutions. According to Xu, the Double World Class project comes at a time when the 211 and 985 projects have already greatly bridged the gap between Chinese and international universities over the past two decades. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:19:04|Editor: ying Video Player Close ANKARA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- At least six workers were killed and another injured after a coal mine collapsed in Turkey's southeastern Province of Sirnak on Tuesday, local news channel NTV reported. The rescue team was also searching for another worker trapped inside the mine, according to the report. The wounded worker was removed from under the rubble and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, it added. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:24:07|Editor: ying Video Player Close PARIS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- French Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire on Tuesday hailed Airbus' acquisition of Canada's Bombardier Inc, adding the deal would boost aviation business at home and at European scale. "I welcome this news. Anything that consolidates Airbus, everything that consolidates the European aviation industry is going in the right direction," Le Maire was quoted as saying by local media. "In order to defend our interests, it is essential that our European and French companies consolidate. From this point of view, the agreement between Airbus and Bombardier is good news," he stated. France-based aerospace group Airbus and Bombardier signed an accord by which Airbus will hold a majority stake in the Canadian planemaker's CSeries jetliner program. Its partners Bombardier and Investissement Quebec will own approximately 31 percent and 19 percent respectively. Following the agreement, Airbus will provide procurement, sales and marketing, and customer support expertise to the C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership, the entity that manufactures and sells the C Series jets. In addition, the European aerospace group will build the jets at its manufacturing site in Alabama for orders made by U.S. airlines in a move to circumvent U.S. customs duties. "Ranging from 100 to 150 seats, the C Series is highly complementary to Airbus' existing single aisle aircraft portfolio, which focuses on the higher end of the single-aisle business (150-240 seats)," the group said. The single aisle market represents 70 percent of the expected global future demand for aircraft, according to the France-based plane maker. The deal triggered investor euphoria that drove Airbus stocks high by 3.81 percent to 78.65 euros (92.33 U.S. dollars) in Tuesday's trading session. File photo shows South African President Jacob Zuma in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province, to attend the Dialogue of Emerging Market and Developing Countries in Sept. 5, 2017. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli) CAPE TOWN, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- South African President Jacob Zuma on Tuesday announced a cabinet reshuffle, including the sacking of the minister of higher education. "After careful consideration, I have decided to make the following changes to the National Executive," Zuma said in a statement. This was the second cabinet reshuffle in seven months. One of the prominent changes in the cabinet is the sacking of Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education and Training, who is also the Secretary General of the South African Communist Party (SACP). Nzimande has been a strong critic of Zuma for his alleged involvement in a series of corruption scandals. Nzimande is replaced by Hlengiwe Mkhize, former Minister of Home Affairs. Mkhize was replaced by Ayanda Dlodlo, former Minister of Communications. Mmamaloko Kubayi, former Minister of Energy, took over as Minister of Communications. Former Minister of State Security David Mahlobo is now the Minister of Energy. Bongani Bongo, a little known Member of Parliament, took over Mahlobo as the Minister of State Security. Zuma also appointed Buti Manamela, former Deputy Minister in the Presidency, as the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training. "I thank the former members of the National Executive for good service in their previous portfolios. I wish the members who are assuming new portfolios all the best in their new responsibilities," Zuma said. The SACP strongly criticized the reshuffle, which it said has nothing to do with strengthening the state, but rather an attempt to silence the SACP's fight against corruption. The sacking of Nzimande has been anticipated for some time as he actively supports a growing call for Zuma to resign. The SACP, a coalition partner with the ruling African National Congress (ANC), called on the ANC to take firm action against Zuma for damaging the organization. The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) said it is not surprised by Zuma's cabinet reshuffle. The DA called the reshuffle "the latest move in Zuma's war against anyone who opposes his project of state capture." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:29:09|Editor: ying Video Player Close KIEV, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Tuesday submitted to the parliament a bill on constitutional amendments, which envisages lifting lawmakers' legal immunity from prosecution, the presidential press service said. The draft law, which was designated by Poroshenko as urgent for consideration, is aimed at enhancing the fight against corruption in the country, said a statement on the Ukrainian presidential website. The law means that the Ukrainian parliamentarians could face arrest, detention and criminal prosecution without the parliament's approval if they commit a crime. Currently, the parliament decides through voting whether to strip its members of immunity if they cross the legal line. If the constitutional changes are approved by the parliament, they will take effect on Jan. 1, 2020. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:29:10|Editor: ying Video Player Close JUBA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan rebels Tuesday urged the peace deal revitalization process, by regional body Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), to prioritize root cause of the now weakened 2015 peace agreement. "There is nothing wrong with the High-Level Revitalization process, but we must capitalize on the factors which affected the 2015 peace agreement," said SPLA-in opposition spokesman William Gatjiath Deng. The rebels have long been calling on IGAD to ensure that the capital Juba is fully demilitarized to avoid the repeat of the renewed July clash last year, if the peace deal revival efforts are to succeed. "Yes on our side we agreed that revitalization of the peace agreement must go as it is planned by the international and the regional actors," Deng added. The High-Level Revitalization process was launched in June, and has already seen a group of prominent foreign ministers from the region shuttling between Juba and South Africa to consult with President Salva Kiir and former First Vice President Riek Machar who is leading the SPLA-IO rebellion. According to IGAD, several estranged armed groups are to be consulted in this round of peace consultations that serves as the last effort to secure long lasting peace after more than three years of turmoil in the East African nation. Edmund Yakani, the director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), told Xinhua in Juba, that the revitalization process should focus on the root causes of the conflict and securing of permanent ceasefire. "The concept of two armies should be abandoned by strengthening military and police integration and formation that reflect national character," he said. Yakani added that IGAD should abandon the existing power sharing approach, and replace it with formation of transitional government with mandate of facilitating credible and transparent national elections within the extended period for implementation of the peace agreement. He also said there is need for setting up military cantonments within respective communities of the armed groups with strong commitment from the armed groups not to use the cantonment sites for enrolling civilians into military. South Sudan descended into violence in December 2013 after political dispute between President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Riek Machar led to fighting between mostly Dinka ethnic soldiers loyal to Kiir and Machar's Nuer ethnic group. The 2015 peace agreement to end the violence was again violated in July 2016 when the rival factions resumed fighting in the capital forcing the rebel leader Machar to flee into exile. The conflict has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions who have sought refuge in neighboring countries. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 22:44:15|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MADRID, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A lieutenant in the Spanish air force was killed on Tuesday morning when the F-18 fighter plane he was piloting crashed on take-off from a military air force base near Madrid, the Spanish Defense Ministry confirms. The pilot, who was identified as 26-year-old Fernando Perez Serrano, didn't have time to eject and was killed in the impact, which happened at around 11:00 a.m. local time. Everything points to an engine failure being the cause of the accident as eyewitnesses explained how the F-18 travelled almost the entire length of the 4.2 km runway at Torrejon airbase, on the outskirts of Madrid, before lifting off the ground, turning slightly to the right and crashing around 100 meters further on. The Defense Ministry confirms a "loss of power in the apparatus." This is the second fatal accident involving a Spanish air-force fighter plane in the last five days, following the crash of a Eurofighter in the Los Llanos airforce base close to Albacete as it was landing after participating in the Oct. 12 military parade in Madrid. Defense Minister Maria Dolores de Cospedal has cut short a visit to Catalonia to return to Madrid. And opposition groups in parliament had confirmed they would ask her to appear in congress to explain how two fatal crashes could happen in such a short period of time. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:04:20|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Republican Congressman Tom Marino has withdrawn his name from consideration for the country's drug czar post. In a tweet Tuesday morning, Trump said Marino, representative for Pennsylvania's 10th congressional district, "has informed me that he is withdrawing from consideration" for the post of drug czar, or head of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. "Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman," Trump said of his former pick for the post. The announcement came after reports revealed that Marino led an effort to pass legislation that would ease restrictions on the distribution of opioids. Critics said Marino was unfit to lead the White House office committed to fighting a nationwide opioid crisis. Trump raised the possibility of withdrawing Marino's nomination when speaking to reporters on Monday. "We're going to look into the report and we're going to take it very seriously," Trump said. "If I think it's one percent negative to doing what we want to do, I will make a change." The National Center for Health Statistics said that over 64,000 people died from opioid-related overdoses in the United States in 2016. Trump said Monday his administration will declare a national emergency for the opioid crisis next week. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:14:22|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close DAMASCUS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday stressed the Syrian government's support to the Iraqi army in its operations to restore Kirkuk from the Kurdish forces, according to state news agency SANA. "The Syrian Arab Republic welcomes the efforts exerted by the Iraqi government to restore the central authority to Kirkuk province and all of Iraq," the ministry said in a statement. The statement comes as the Iraqi forces captured Kirkuk after the withdrawal of Kurdish forces. The tension between Iraq's central government and the Kurdish forces sparked following a Kurdish referendum on independence three weeks ago. The voters in the Kurdish autonomous region in northern Iraq have overwhelmingly supported secession, amid a regional opposition from Iraq's central government, Syria, and Iran. In its statement, the ministry said the independence vote "serves the agenda of Israel and diverts the attention from the achievement of the Syrian and Iraqi military forces in their fight against the Islamic State (IS) group." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:24:26|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MADRID, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The northwest Spanish community of Galicia and the neighboring region of Asturias are slowly returning to normal after over 150 wildfires caused widespread destruction and claimed four lives over the past three days. Overnight rain in the region and a lowering of unseasonably high temperatures in Galicia helped the task of the hundreds of firemen and military personnel working to extinguish the flames. But Tuesday afternoon, the Galician regional government confirmed that 50 fire points were still active. The council also maintained a level two alert given the proximity of seven fires to the cities of Ourense and Lugo. Health authorities confirmed four people remain in hospital as a result of the various fires, while 30 more required medical attention. Although investigations into the causes of the fires are still at an early stage, Civil Guards sayd there are indications showing the majority of them were started intentionally. Around 145 different fires began over a very short period of time over the weekend and regional leader Alberto Feijoo said on Monday that the fires were the result of "incendiary terrorism... with the intention of causing the most damage where it would cause the greatest impact." Meanwhile 11 fires out of original 36 are still active in Asturias, with nine of those under control. File Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump (L) walks to his office from Marine One as he returns to the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, on Aug. 14, 2017. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu) WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) - The White House on Monday provided updated details of U.S. President Donald Trump's travel to Asia next month, highlighting U.S. engagement in security and trade in the region. According to the press release issued by the White House press service, Trump's Nov. 3-14 tour will take him to Hawaii, Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. TRUMP'S ITINERARY Trump's visit "will underscore his commitment to longstanding United States alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region," said the White House. In Hawaii, Trump will receive a briefing from the U.S. Pacific Command, and visit Pearl Harbor and the USS ARIZONA Memorial. Trump will arrive in Japan on Nov. 5, where he will meet with U.S. and Japanese service members, and meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The latter will also host a meeting for Trump with the families of Japanese citizens allegedly abducted by Pyongyang. During his visit to South Korea that embarks on Nov. 7, Trump will meet with President Moon Jae-in as well as U.S. and South Korean service members. He is also scheduled to speak at the South Korea's National Assembly to "celebrate the enduring alliance" between the two countries, and "call on the international community to join together in maximizing pressure" on Pyongyang. After his visit to China beginning on Nov. 8, Trump will travel to Danang, Vietnam, on Nov. 10 to participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economic leaders meeting and deliver a speech at the APEC CEO summit. The White House said Trump will "present the United States' vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing America's economic prosperity." On Nov. 11, Trump will travel to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, for an official visit to the country. He will meet with President Tran Dai Quang and other senior Vietnamese leaders. In his final stop of Manila, Trump will participate in the special gala celebration dinner for the 50th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). On Nov. 13, he will join in the celebration of the 40th anniversary of U.S.-ASEAN relations at the U.S.-ASEAN summit, and participate in bilateral meetings with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and other ASEAN leaders. TRUMP'S CHINA STOP On Nov. 8, Trump will arrive in Beijing for a visit to China. He is expected to attend a series of bilateral, commercial, and cultural events, including meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to the White House press release. During his meeting with visiting U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Sept. 30 , Xi said, "Currently the most important event in our bilateral relations is President Trump's China visit in November," adding that, "His visit will be a major opportunity for the development of China-U.S. relations." Xi said China-U.S ties have been generally stable, and that he has maintained sound communication with President Trump. "China attaches great importance to President Trump's visit, and I look forward to working with him to outline and advance our bilateral relations in the years to come," Xi told Tillerson. Xi said the teams on both sides should work closely to make the visit "successful and special." The two presidents of the world's largest economies met in early April at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in the U.S. State of Florida, where they exchanged views on issues of bilateral and global concern. After the meeting, the two leaders also spoke several times by telephone on hot-spot issues including the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:34:29|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close GHAZNI, Afghanistan -- At least 15 Afghan security forces were killed and 12 others wounded after Taliban attacked with two car bombs a district office building in eastern province of Ghazni on Tuesday, police said. The attack started early on Tuesday morning after a militant detonated an explosive-laden hijacked security force's armored vehicle near the entrance of Andar district, triggering a heavy clash lasting for hours, provincial Police Chief Gen. Mohammad Zaman told Xinhua. (Afghanistan-Bomb Attack) - - - - KABUL -- At least 91 militants were killed and 27 others injured amid Afghan security forces operations across the country over the past 24 hours, the defense ministry said Tuesday. "Afghan National Defense and Security Forces launched military and cordon operations in 13 of 34 Afghan provinces in the past 24 hours, killing 91 armed militants and injuring 27 others," the ministry said in a statement providing daily operational updates. (Afghansitan-Military Operations) - - - - DAMASCUS -- The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have captured Syria's northern city of Raqqa, after fully defeating the Islamic State (IS) group on Tuesday, the SDF spokesman told Xinhua. "The military operations in Raqqa have ended and now the city is being mopped up in search of sleeper cells if existed," Talal Silo told Xinhua. (Syria-Raqqa) - - - - ANKARA -- IAt least six workers were killed and another injured after a coal mine collapsed in Turkey's southeastern Province of Sirnak on Tuesday, local news channel NTV reported. The rescue team was also searching for another worker trapped inside the mine, according to the report. (Turkey-Mine-Collapse) Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:34:30|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MOSCOW, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Pyongyang's public threat to use nuclear weapons against the United States is extremely dangerous, said a senior lawmaker from the lower house of Russia's parliament Tuesday. A deputy ambassador of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to the United Nations (UN) said Monday that the situation on the Korean Peninsula "has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear way may break out any moment," according to an AP report. The tough rhetoric in no way contributes to easing tensions, Leonid Slutsky, head of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Russian State Duma, was quoted by TASS news agency as saying. The UN Security Council (UNSC) has imposed several sets of sanctions on the DPRK for its repeated nuclear and missile tests. Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently signed a decree to implement economic, trade and technological bans on Pyongyang in compliance with the UNSC Resolution 2321 adopted in November 2016. The signing of the decree indicated that Russia has never supported the "self-proclaimed nuclear status" of the DPRK and Pyongyang should not neglect the opinion of the international community or ignore UNSC resolutions, Slutsky said. However, he added that the DPRK should not be provoked and driven into a corner. "If military confrontation does begin, then there simply will be no winners or losers," Slutsky said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:49:37|Editor: Hou Qiang Video Player Close LONDON, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- British Brexit Secretary David Davis made a plea Tuesday to the leaders of European member states to mandate their chief negotiator Michel Barnier to move towards discussing Britain's deal for leaving the European Union. Davis' plea came as he updated the House of Commons on the progress being made in latest round of negotiations with Brussels, after the Monday night meeting between British Prime Minister Theresa May and the president of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker. Davis told MPs: "At the European Council later this week, I hope the leaders of the 27 will recognize the progress made and provide Barnier with the mandate to build on the momentum and spirit of cooperation we now have. Doing so will allow us to best achieve our joint objectives and move towards a deal that works for both the UK and the EU." Labor's Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer accused Davis of failing to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation, calling on flexibility from both sides in the negotiations. "Every passing week without progress on transitional arrangements make things worse, not better," he said. Starmer also said people who talk of "no deal" as an outcome between Britain and the EU were fantasists and fanatics Davis said in his statement there has been much discussion of what would constitute sufficient progress in the negotiations. He said: "Negotiations require both parties to not just engage constructively but also to develop their positions in advance." Davis said "we are ready to move these negotiations on". Acknowledging that negotiations have at times been tough, Davis said both negotiating teams have continued to work constructively together. "There is still some way to go to secure a new partnership, but I am confident we are on the right path," added Davis. He told MPs: "Our aim remains to provide as much certainty as possible to businesses and citizens on both sides. I have made no secret of the fact that to fully provide that certainty we must be able to talk about the future. We all have to recognize that we are reaching the limits of what we can achieve without consideration of the future relationship." Political commentators said despite progress being made during negotiations, the divorce bill settlement the EU wants from Britain remains a key stumbling block. Davis told MPs that Britain has made it clear that a process of agreeing specific commitments can only come later. The EU want to know how much Britain will pay before talks of a future trade relationship can start. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:49:38|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MOGADISHU, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The United States military confirmed Tuesday its forces carried out a joint airstrike against Al-Shabaab militants in southern Somalia on Monday but the exact number of casualties remains unclear. The U.S. Africa Command (Africom) spokesman Patrick Barnes told Xinhua the joint operation with Somalia security forces occurred at about 56 km southwest of the capital, Mogadishu. "We are currently assessing the results of the strike. The operation occurred in southern Somalia, about 35 miles southwest of the capital, Mogadishu," Barnes said. Local residents said the airstrikes took place near Al-Shabaab controlled town in Somalia's southern Lower Shabelle region, targeting a convoy carrying insurgents, who were traveling in the outskirts of the area. Barnes said the U.S. forces will continue to use all authorized and appropriate measures to protect Americans and to disable terrorist threats. "This includes partnering with AMISOM and Somali National Security Forces (SNSF), targeting terrorists, their training camps and safe havens throughout Somalia, the region and around the world," he said. The Al-Qaida allied militant group has pledged allegiance to Al-Qaida and is dedicated to providing safe haven for terrorist attacks throughout the world. "Al-Shabaab has publicly committed to planning and conducting attacks against the U.S. and our partners in the region," said Barnes. The militants have recently increased their attacks against Africa Union and Somali forces especially in Mogadishu, where a deadly attack took place on Saturday that claimed 279 lives. The Monday strike also comes after Al-Shabaab militants regained control of Bariire, which is located about 60 km southwest of Mogadishu after allied forces vacated the area last week. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:54:40|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close DUBAI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Dubai developer Meraas Holding and two major Chinese companies on Tuesday launched "Tech Town," a giant project aiming to boost cooperation on developing digital and artificial intelligence technologies. The giant project was launched on day two of the ongoing Dubai Investment Week by Meraas with China's Alibaba Group and China Financing and Investment Property Corporation (CFIPC). The "Tech Town" project, which plans to house over 3,000 high-tech companies, will be built near Dubai's free port Jebel Ali, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Speaking at the China-UAE Science and Technology Cooperation and Innovation Forum at the Dubai Investment Week, David Zheng, president of CFIPC, said the project will "work as an incubator for firms" from China, the Middle East and the rest of world to produce innovative solutions around digital transformation, robotics and mobility. Chen Xinghai, president of Innovation Business Cluster at CFIPC, noted that "Tech Town" will be located adjacent to Jebel Ali Port, the world's largest man-made commercial port which is also near Dubai's new Al Maktoum International Airport. "Phase one of the project will be completed by 2020, and Tech Town will eventually cover 2 million square meters with a total investment of 600 million dollars," Chen said. "Tech Town aims to serve more than 1 billion users and host over 3,000 high-tech enterprises," he added. Ammar Al-Malik, executive director of Dubai Internet City, said Dubai aims to expand its position as the leading incubator for high-tech firms, and Tech Town will contribute to this objective. This is why UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid launched on Monday the Artificial Intelligence strategy, which aims to lift the UAE to world's leading countries in AI in line with the government's Centennial 2071 masterplan, he said. Clinton O'Leary, chief commercial officer of Yvolv, an IT cloud joint venture created by Meraas and Alibaba, said "Tech Town" is the logical result of the close cooperation between Dubai and China in the field of information and communication technology (ICT) over the past years. Huawei, a leading Chinese ICT firm, deployed in 2010 together with UAE telecom giant Etisalat the first pre-commercial Long-term Evolution (LTE) network in the Gulf Arab state. In November 2016, Alibaba Cloud, the cloud computing division of Alibaba Group, launched with Meraas a data center which is the first full-fledged public cloud company in the Middle East. Since 2014, China has been Dubai's biggest foreign trade partner, as over 4,000 Chinese businesses and more than 300,000 Chinese nationals reside in the UAE. In the first quarter 2017, China remained the biggest non-oil trade partner of Dubai with a trade volume of 12 billion U.S. dollars. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-17 23:59:42|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ROME, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Moody's Investors Service has confirmed its negative outlook on Italian banks due to their high levels of non-performing loans (NPLs), Italian news agency ANSA reported Tuesday. Finance Minister Pier Carlo Padoan replied in a radio interview with RAI public broadcaster that thanks to government measures the "stock of NPLs has dropped 25 percent since the beginning of the year". "I believe the image (Moody's gives) does not represent reality," the minister told RAI 1 radio. According to data obtained from the Finance Ministry, gross NPLs held by Italy's banks were reduced from a total of 200.9 billion euros (about 236 billion U.S. dollars) in December 2016 to 172.8 billion euros in August 2017. In the same period, net NPLs -- meaning gross bad loans minus provisions made by banks to cover them -- fell from 86.8 billion euros in December 2016 to 65.3 billion euros in August 2017 -- a fall of 24.8 percent, which is the figure Padoan referred to earlier Tuesday. Italy is slowly pulling out of two economic recessions that were sparked by the global financial crisis of 2008 and by the sovereign debt crisis of 2010. The prolonged crisis caused households and businesses to default on their loans, which piled up on bank balance sheets. Beginning in 2015, the Italian government struggled to reform the country's banking sector to make it more crisis-proof, and to get rid of its NPLs. Moody's has in the past praised these efforts. "The government has managed to stabilize the banking sector," Moody's said on Oct. 6 this year, affirming Italy's long-term issue rating at Baa2 with a negative outlook. "While restoring the sector to health will take time, the tail risk of a deeper banking crisis with significant impact on the sovereign's balance sheet has been reduced with the government's actions on the weakest banks earlier this year," it said. "At the same time, the downside risks to Italy's creditworthiness remain elevated," the ratings agency said, citing Italy's high public debt and uncertainty ahead of the next general election, likely to be held in early 2018. Italy must now also contend with the European Central Bank (ECB), which sparked criticism earlier this month when it suggested Eurozone banks should be required to set aside money to cover 100 percent of unsecured NPLs within two years. The effects would hit Italian, Greek and Portuguese banks the hardest, Standard & Poor's ratings agency said in a statement on Monday. Italy, Greece, and Portugal have suffered the most from the global economic crisis, and have among the highest levels of unemployment in the EU. Forcing banks to cover impaired loans 100 percent could cut lending to businesses and choke weak economic recoveries, critics argued. However, according to the European Systemic Risk Board (ESRB), keeping NPLs on the books too long, even if the banks cover them with provisions, is bad for the real economy in the long run. "The presence of an elevated NPL stock is a symptom of broader solvency problems in the real economy, especially in the corporate sector, and depressed demand for credit. All these factors adversely affect potential economic growth," the ESRB wrote in a July 2017 paper titled "Resolving NPLs in Europe". Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:04:43|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TEHRAN, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Iran's exports of petrochemical and polymer products in the first six months of the current Iranian calendar year (March 21-Sept. 22) reached 5.57 billion U.S. dollars, Financial Tribune daily reported on Tuesday. The figure shows a rise of 1.2 billion U.S. dollars compared to the same period of last year. Iran's exports of the products are expected to register a new annual record in terms of value by March, the report said. According to the official data, Iran earned a total of 9.55 billion U.S. dollars in revenues from petrochemical exports last year. Iran's petrochemical exports are mainly bound for India, China and South Korea, and the country is gaining more ground in Africa and Europe. Besides, domestic market share of petrochemical and polymer products registered seven percent rise in terms of volume and 12 percent increase in terms of value during the six months period, the report added. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:09:45|Editor: Hou Qiang Video Player Close NEW DELHI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- India's northern state of Haryana will hold an international festival on Gita, the religious book of the Hindus next month. "Indian President Ram Nath Kovind will inaugurate the International Gita Mahotsav in the town of Kurukshetra on November 25," Haryana's Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar told the media in the national capital. This year, Mauritius is the partner country for the event which will conclude on Dec. 3. Apart from delegates from various countries, the state government has invited scholars from other religions to deliberate upon the teachings of Gita, the minister said. The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as simply the Gita, is a Hindu scripture in Sanskrit that is part of the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The Gita's call for selfless action inspired many leaders of the Indian independence movement, including Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi referred to the Gita as his "spiritual dictionary." This is the second year in a row that the Haryana will be holding such a festival. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:14:46|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TOKYO -- Kobe Steel Ltd. said Tuesday that it has been asked by the U.S. government to submit documents related to a data fabrication scandal which has engulfed Japan's third largest steelmaker. The company said in a statement that its subsidiary Kobe Steel USA, Inc. had been asked by the U.S. Justice Department to submit documents related to products sold to U.S. customers that had been subjected to data fabrication. (Japan-Kobe Steel-Scandal) - - - - TOKYO -- An Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) helicopter might have crashed in the sea off Hamamatsu of Shizuoka prefecture, central Japan, local media quoted government sources as saying. The UH-60J helicopter belonging to the ASDF Hamamatsu base disappeared from radar some 30 km south of the base around 6:00 p.m. local time, said the report. (Japan-Helicopter-Crash) - - - - GHAZNI, Afghanistan -- At least 15 Afghan security forces were killed and 12 others wounded after Taliban attacked with two car bombs a district office building in eastern province of Ghazni on Tuesday, police said. The attack started early on Tuesday morning after a militant detonated an explosive-laden hijacked security force's armored vehicle near the entrance of Andar district, triggering a heavy clash lasting for hours, provincial Police Chief Gen. Mohammad Zaman told Xinhua. (Afghanistan-Attack) - - - - NEW DELHI -- Indian police in southern city of Bengaluru Tuesday released a photo of one of the suspects in murder of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh, officials said. The photo of the suspect wearing helmet riding a bike has been produced from surveillance video footage recorded near Lankesh's house on the day of her murder. Reports said the special investigation team (SIT) which is probing the case with the help of a laboratory in the U.S. got a video grab of the suspect enhanced to the maximum possible level. (India-Journalist-Murder) - - - - GARDEZ, Afghanistan -- Up to 20 people including policemen and civilians have been killed and 160 others injured on Tuesday in a suicide attack on a police center in Gardez city, capital of Afghanistan's eastern Paktia province, a local official said on condition of anonymity. The explosion was followed by gunshots. (Afghanistan-Explosion) Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:19:49|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TEHRAN, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Iranian major tire producer Yazd Tire has concluded a deal to sell tires to France's carmaker Renault's Algerian operations, local media reported on Tuesday. Under the deal, 50,000 tires produced by Yazd in central Iran will be exported to Algeria to be used by the French car giant in its Algerian manufacturing plant in the northwestern port city of Oran, the Financial Tribune daily reported. Renault's office in Tehran told Financial Tribune that the company is working with Yazd Tire, without disclosing details. Mohammad Reza Ganji, chairman of Iran Tire Industry Association, said that Renault has agreed to help facilitate exports from Yazd Tire. "The French automotive company has placed Yazd Tire on its list of trusted suppliers," Ganji was quoted as saying. Yazd Tire produces tires for passenger vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, bicycles, and motorcycles. It has an annual output of 3.5 million tires with an estimated 10-12 percent share in the local market. The firm has previously signed a deal with the Netherlands-based tire manufacturer Apollo Vredestein B.V. to produce tires under the Dutch license. Yazd Tire CEO Eskandar Sotoudeh said his company has shipped products worth of 10 million U.S. dollars to countries in Africa, Central Asia and the Middle East during the past Iranian calendar year that ended on March 20, 2016. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:19:50|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close CAIRO, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi urged on Tuesday the establishment of a bunkering company to serve ships at the Suez Canal zone to attract more investments to the waterway region, the presidential spokesman said in a statement. Sisi's remarks came during a meeting with head of the Suez Canal Authority and the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone) Mohab Mamish on Tuesday, said presidential spokesman Alaa Youssef in the statement. During the meeting, the president urged the establishment of a company for logistics and ship services in Port Said in cooperation with the SCZone and the General Authority for Petroleum along with the private sector. For his part, Mamish provided a report on the partnership agreement signed in September between SCZone and Dubai-based DP World to develop 95 sq km in Ain Sokhna district of the zone, with 75 sq km as an industrial zone and 20 sq km as a residential area. The development of the SCZone is one of Egypt's national mega projects and one of the promising investment potentials for several world companies. Sisi ordered expansion of the Suez Canal that was completed in August 2015 to facilitate navigation in the waterway, ease difficulties for shipments and attract further investments to the vital region. China's TEDA corporation, one of the oldest and largest industrial developers of the SCZone, is currently working on the development of an area that increased to 7.23 sq km in Ain Sokhna, whose first phase was completed attracting some 68 enterprises. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:24:53|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close LUSAKA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged authorities in Zambia to redefine borrowing plans in view of risks associated with high levels of debt, a senior government official said on Tuesday. Ministry of Finance Permanent Secretary for Economic Management Mukuli Chikuba said this was one of the issues discussed during a side meeting with the IMF during the IMF/World Bank Spring meetings last week. In a statement released by the ministry, he said the government has since agreed to provide data on recent developments in the economy, the 2018 budget and the borrowing plans. The two parties, he said, discussed the need to continue fiscal consolidation and reassessment of the priorities in the 2018 budget and the need to review and redefine the macroeconomic framework that anchors a path toward debt sustainability. "Once this data has been reviewed and validated, the IMF would field a field staff visit to Zambia with the objective of redefining the macroeconomic framework," he said. Last week, the IMF expressed concern at the pace at which Zambia's public debt, especially external debt, has increased. According to government figures, Zambia's total public debt stood at 12.45 billion U.S. dollars in August 2017, representing 47 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), with the external debt standing at 7.5 billion dollars. The Zambian government had been hoping to get an IMF bailout program before the end of this year. But the IMF said last week that no deal has been reached yet. Zambia has been seeking an IMF bailout program, estimated at 1.3 billion dollars, since 2014. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:34:57|Editor: Lu Hui Video Player Close GENEVA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The World Economic Forum (WEF) launched on Tuesday a platform for top think tanks in the world to share expert analysis of global and regional security issues with leaders from the public and private sectors. The WEF said the Global Platform for Geostrategic Collaboration to bring together leading policy research institutions, or think tanks, to engage the global public on geostrategic challenges in a multipolar world. It will feature research and analysis from the Atlantic Council, International Crisis Group, RAND Corporation, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. These organizations will work with think-tank partners from China, India, Japan, South Korea and Russia who will join later this year. Lee Howell, head of global programming for the WEF said: "Perceptions about geopolitics are often fragmented, biased or uninformed as a result of divisive social media and partisan fake news." "This new platform aims to educate leaders from all walks of life about strategic, global and regional security issues," he said. The platform aims to fill the urgent need for leaders and experts to understand the world through the eyes of their counterparts in other regions and find better ways to strengthen cooperation. The WEF said experts will share their research on areas such as international security. It will include nuclear security, geo-economics, global governance, risks and resilience and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:39:59|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close VILNIUS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- More than 2,300 troops from 12 NATO countries will attend a two-week military exercise Iron wolf II in Lithuania, according to the country's defense ministry on Tuesday. According to the Lithuanian defense ministry, the drill kicks off on Wednesday in Central and Eastern Lithuania, the Eastern-flank member country of NATO. "More than 2,300 troops from 12 NATO countries and staff element from NATO Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast will attend the training," said the ministry in a statement. For two weeks, the Lithuanian soldiers and the troops from NATO enhanced forward presence (EFP) battalion will train operation planning, defense and offense operations, interoperability, said the ministry. Multinational German-led EFP battalion was deployed in Lithuania earlier this year and has reached its full operational capacity in June. In June, the first of the Iron Wolf military exercise series was attended by around 5,000 soldiers from 10 NATO countries. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:45:03|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close JERUSALEM, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Israel said Tuesday that it will not negotiate with a Palestinian government that includes the Islamic Hamas movement, a week after a Palestinian reconciliation deal was signed. Israel's security cabinet said in a statement that it would acknowledge the agreement reached by the Fatah party and Hamas "only under certain conditions." The Fatah party, led by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, signed last week in Cairo, Egypt with Hamas a landmark agreement to return the civilian power in the besieged enclave of Gaza Strip to the Palestinian National Authority. Under the deal brokered by Egypt, the Palestinian consensus government under Fatah will have full control of the Gaza Strip, ruled by Hamas since 2007, by December 1. The Israeli cabinet's statement said that Israel will not hold diplomatic talks "with a Palestinian government that relies on Hamas," an Islamist Palestinian movement that Israel, like the majority of the West, considers a terror organization. The Israeli cabinet demands for Hamas' recognition of the State of Israel, stopping "all terrorist activities" and disarming its forces, in addition to a "full security control of the Gaza Strip, including all border crossings, by the Palestinian Authority." It also demands for the return of the bodies of fallen Israeli soldiers and civilians which Israel believes are being held by Hamas in Gaza. The Israeli-Palestinian peace process has been stalled since April 2014 due to Israel's continued settlement activities on the occupied Palestinian territories. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:50:04|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ANKARA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- At least 12 police officers were wounded in a bomb attack in Turkey's southern province of Mersin on Tuesday. The blast occurred when a shuttle bus carrying police officers was moving in central Yenisehir District of Mersin, the provincial governor said in a statement. At least 12 officers were wounded in the attack, it added. Ambulances and police were dispatched to the scene after the blast. An investigation has been launched into the incident, Chief Public Prosecutor Mustafa Ercan said. The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) has targeted police in similar attacks in the past, according to the daily Hurriyet. The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States and the EU, resumed its 30-year armed campaign against the Turkish state in July 2015 after a brief reconciliation period. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 00:55:06|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close by Julius Gale JUBA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) said on Tuesday a high-level forum will convene within two months to find a political solution to the South Sudan conflict. Ismail Wais, the IGAD special envoy for South Sudan, said the east Africa regional bloc will analyze the outcome of consultations with all the estranged parties in the South Sudan conflict and develop options for revitalizing stalled peace efforts. He said the IGAD council of ministers will convene a meeting to consider the various recommendations and options before announcing the date, location, attendance and draft agenda for the much-awaited high-level revitalization forum. "We appreciate that this revitalization process will be underway within two months," Wais told reporters in the South Sudan capital, Juba. "We never said it will be easy, but we mean it very seriously, and we are very determined to lead this country to peace," he added. The IGAD envoy however did not clarify whether the regional bloc would allow exiled former deputy president-turned rebel leader Riek Machar to attend the revitalization forum. The South Sudan conflict, which is entering its fourth year, has created one of the fastest growing refugee crisis in the world. A peace deal signed in August 2015 between the rival leaders under United Nations pressure led to the establishment of a transitional unity government in April 2016, but was shattered by renewed fighting three months later. The UN estimates that about 4 million people have been displaced both internally and externally. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 01:00:08|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani army said on Tuesday that there had been no U.S. drone strikes on the Pakistani side of the border in recent days and all military operations had been conducted on the Afghan side of the border. Pakistani media had earlier reported that three U.S. drone strikes have been conducted in the Kurram tribal region over the past two days and killed nearly 31 suspected militants. However, the army said in a statement that no drone strike has taken place in Pakistan. "There has been neither air violation along the Pak-Afg border in that area nor any drone strike in Kurram Agency as being misreported by few. Based on timely sharing, Pakistan Army is vigilant as Anvil on own side along Pak-Afghan border," a statement from the army's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations said. The statement said military operations are being conducted in Khost and Paktia provinces in Afghanistan by the Resolute Support Mission (RSM) and Afghan Forces, opposite to Kurram Agency. During last 24 hours, a number of Air engagements have taken place in those areas inside Afghanistan with reports of heavy losses to terrorists, the statement further said. As a follow-up of the army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa's visit to Afghanistan on Oct. 1, coordination between the forces of Pakistan and Afghanistan has enhanced. "RSM timely shared details about the said operation within Afghan territory," the Pakistani army said, adding a better security coordination will take both countries toward enduring peace and stability defeating the common enemy. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 01:10:12|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close PHNOM PENH, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's Appeal Court on Tuesday upheld the decision of a lower court to sentence a minor opposition leader to five years in prison for inciting soldiers to disobey orders, according to a verdict. Sourn Serey Ratha, 44, president of the Khmer Power Party, was arrested on Aug. 13, a day after he posted to his Facebook criticizing Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen's decision to send soldiers to confront with Lao troops in a disputed border area. During military tensions between Cambodian and Laotian troops in early August, Ratha wrote on Facebook that the border dispute would only harm soldiers, while their commanders were safely happy with their money and mistresses. On Aug. 25, the Phnom Penh Municipal Court said Ratha's comments had affected social security and security of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and sentenced him to five years in prison and fined him 2,500 U.S. dollars. "The Phnom Penh Municipal Court's decision against Sourn Serey Ratha is correct, so the Appeal Court decides to uphold the decision," Appeal Court presiding judge Pol Sam Oeun pronounced the verdict after a two-hour hearing. Ratha returned to Cambodia from self-imposed exile in the United States after receiving a royal pardon in July 2015 for terrorism conviction. A US Air Forces F18 fighter performs aerobatic flight above the Jones Beach in Long Island, New York, on May 23, 2009. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) MADRID, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A lieutenant in the Spanish air force was killed on Tuesday morning when the F-18 fighter plane he was piloting crashed on take-off from a military air force base near Madrid, the Spanish Defense Ministry confirms. The pilot, who was identified as 26-year-old Fernando Perez Serrano, didn't have time to eject and was killed in the impact, which happened at around 11:00 a.m. local time. Everything points to an engine failure being the cause of the accident as eyewitnesses explained how the F-18 travelled almost the entire length of the 4.2 km runway at Torrejon airbase, on the outskirts of Madrid, before lifting off the ground, turning slightly to the right and crashing around 100 meters further on. The Defense Ministry confirms a "loss of power in the apparatus." This is the second fatal accident involving a Spanish air-force fighter plane in the last five days, following the crash of a Eurofighter in the Los Llanos airforce base close to Albacete as it was landing after participating in the Oct. 12 military parade in Madrid. Defense Minister Maria Dolores de Cospedal has cut short a visit to Catalonia to return to Madrid. And opposition groups in parliament had confirmed they would ask her to appear in congress to explain how two fatal crashes could happen in such a short period of time. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 01:25:18|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's ruling tripartite alliance hangs in balance after President Jacob Zuma reshuffled the cabinet on Tuesday, removing Blade Nzimande, the South African Communist Party (SACP) general secretary, from cabinet. Nzimande has on several occasions called for Zuma to resign. The SACP also criticised Zuma for the cabinet reshuffle earlier this year. At a press conference on Tuesday, the SACP said Zuma made the latest reshuffle without consulting other tripartite partners. The ruling alliance comprises the SACP, Zuma's African National Congress (ANC), and Congress of South African Trade Union. "We emphatically reject these maneuvers that place the alliance on the brink of disintegration," the SACP said. "Our view is that this is not a reshuffle but the targeted removal of Blade as a direct attack on the SACP." "The continued authoritarianism by Zuma disregarding alliance protocols and relations has plunged the alliance into unchartered waters," the SACP said. A University of Johannesburg research fellow, Shepherd Mpofu, told Xinhua that the reshuffle will widen the gap between the two friendly parties. "This further drives a wedge between SACP and the ANC hugely magnify the craters in the tripartite alliance," Mpofu said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 01:40:26|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close DAMASCUS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Following a four-month-long offensive by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the Islamic State (IS) collapsed under the pressure and lost its de facto capital in Syria's northern province of Raqqa. The SDF troops, an alliance of Kurds, Arabs, and Assyrians led by the Kurdish YPG and supported by the U.S.-led coalition, have fully captured Raqqa on Tuesday, after eliminating the terror-labeled militants in the heartland of their rule in Syria. "The military operations in Raqqa have ended and now the city is being mopped up in search of sleeper cells if existed," Talal Silo, the spokesman of the SDF, told Xinhua by phone. The city is also being combed in search of mines, as the situation in Raqqa has been completely controlled by the SDF. "Soon we will have an official statement about the liberation of Raqqa," he said. "Sure the city of Raqqa has been liberated, and the military operations have ended, but we are mopping up the city," he stressed. The victory marks the first major defeat to IS in Syria, as Raqqa is the de facto capital of the terror-designated group. In the last week, a deal was struck between the SDF and IS with the mediation of local tribes in Raqqa for their surrender. Around 3,500 civilians evacuated the city over the past week, in addition to 275 local IS militants, while another 300 foreign ones remained in the city to meet a black fate. Kurdish activists said the surrendered IS militants were taken to prison in the city of Tabqa in the countryside of Raqqa, while other activists, mainly pro-Syrian government, said the U.S.-led coalition and the SDF allowed them to be transferred to the countryside of Deir al-Zour province in eastern Syria where the Syrian army is advancing in the battle against IS in that oil-rich area near Iraq. For the foreign IS fighters, the U.S.-backed coalition didn't accept their departure, as Paris opposed to their transfer as one of them was the mastermind behind the terror attack in Paris. The foreigners are the ones who were standing till the end before the SDF retook all of their positions, including the city's local stadium, which was the last IS position in Raqqa. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Tuesday that as many as 3,250 people, including 1,130 civilians, have been killed during the four-month-long battles in Raqqa. It added that children and women were among the killed civilians, as the rest of the death toll is for IS militants and SDF fighters. IS declared Raqqa as its de facto capital in 2014, after announcing their self-styled caliphate in Syria. Finally, the end of IS has become around the corner, as the Syrian army forces and its allies are clawing back areas fallen to the terror-designated group in Deir al-Zour. The Syrian army succeeded over the past two days to completely besiege IS in areas they control in the city of Deir al-Zour and started attacking those areas. This came after the army captured the city of Mayadeen, which was deemed as the IS capital in Deir al-Zour. With the IS positions now crumbling in Deir al-Zour, the terror-designated organization is left with a major stronghold in the city of Bukamal on the border with IS-controlled areas in Iraq. The Bukamal battle is expected to be the last against IS in Syria. Hmaidi Abdullah, a Syrian political expert, told Xinhua the battle in Bukmal could take some time due to its proximity to IS-held areas in neighboring Iraq. Meanwhile, Anas Joudeh, the head of the Nation Building Movement, told Xinhua that the end of IS is something positive, noting, however, that the most important thing is how to eliminate the ideology of IS. "If we defeat IS and we didn't fight its ideology, it could re-appear in Syria," he said, adding that "a political solution and reconciliation are the solutions to prevent IS from re-appearing in another shape." For its side, the Syrian government has commented on the liberation of Raqqa by the SDF, as it has expressed dismay and rejection to the U.S.-led coalition, accusing it of massacring the people in Raqqa during the operation. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 01:45:28|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MANAMA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Bahrain government on Tuesday signed a 3.8-billion-U.S. dollars deal with U.S. global aerospace company Lockheed Martin to buy 16 F-16 aircrafts. The deal was disclosed during the second day of the ongoing Bahrain International Defence Exhibition and Conference (BIDEC 2017). The Commander of the Royal Bahraini Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Shaikh Hamad bin Abdulla Al Khalifa announced the deal, in the presence of Lockheed Martin Executive Vice President Richard Ambrose. "The upgraded F-16 jets will contribute effectively to developing the Royal Bahraini Air Force," said Shaikh Hamad. Lockheed Martin said in a statement that it values long-standing relationship with the Kingdom of Bahrain. "We remain fully committed to supporting the U.S. government and the Kingdom of Bahrain in the ongoing government-to-government discussions around the proposed sale of F-16 Block 70 aircraft," said a company statement. Bahrain was the first gulf country in the region to acquire the F-16. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 01:50:30|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close KIEV, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- At least four people were hurt in clashes between anti-corruption demonstrators and the police in central Kiev on Tuesday, authorities said. Artem Shevchenko, a spokesman for the Ukrainian Interior Ministry, told local media that a police officer was hospitalized with a head injury, while three activists suffered minor injuries. The clashes erupted when the activists tried to set up tents outside the parliament building and their actions met resistance from the police. The demonstration was organized by several oppositional political movements, which demanded the parliament adopt a string of anti-corruption bills. In particular, the demonstrators called on the lawmakers to lift parliamentarians' immunity, amend electoral legislation and establish an anti-corruption court. Besides, some activists have demanded a resignation of Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko or early parliamentary election over the alleged inability of the authorities to root out corruption. Despite the scuffles, several dozens of demonstrators have managed to erect their tents and vowed to stay near the parliament building until their demands are met. An estimated 4,000 activists took part in the demonstration, which was guarded by 3,500 police officers. The protest was organized by the political party Movement of New Forces of former Georgian President and ex-governor of Ukraine's Odessa region, Mikheil Saakashvili, the Fatherland Party led by former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and other oppositional forces. Earlier in the day, the Ukrainian president submitted to the parliament a bill on constitutional amendments, which envisages lifting lawmakers' legal immunity from prosecution. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 02:00:33|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopian government on Tuesday confirmed that Bereket Simon, a stalwart of the ruling Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) for more than 30 years, has requested to resign from an influential post. Negeri Lencho, minister of Government Communication Affairs Office, said Simon has offered to resign from his position as deputy director general of Ethiopia Policy Study and Research Center, a ministerial post. Lencho said the government is still reviewing the request. Simon is a founding member of Amhara National Democratic Movement (ANDM), one of the parties in the EPRDF coalition. He once served as minister of information. Simon's resignation request came one week after the resignation of another senior EPRDF official, Abadula Gemeda, as speaker of the Ethiopian parliament. Gemeda is a founding member of another EPRDF coalition member party, Oromo People's Democratic Organization (OPDO). The resignation of Gemeda and the resignation request of Simon have ignited speculation on possible division between the member parties of EPRDF. Ethiopia was rocked by a series of deadly protests in 2016, particularly in the Amhara and Oromia regional states, with protestors accusing the EPRDF of economic and political marginalization. The government, blaming bad governance and corruption for public discontent, has since launched a large-scale anti-corruption campaign and arrested high-profile individuals as part of its reform agenda. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 02:15:37|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close VALLETTA, Oct.17 (Xinhua) -- Malta expects more Chinese tourists to visit the island, not only for sightseeing but also for experiencing the local life, Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) CEO Paul Bugeja told Xinhua in an interview. "We are committed to transform our tourism industry from the traditional 'holiday services' to the 'experiential travel' which combines the civic life and community activities together," said Bugeja. "We are managing open important channels of communication to introduce Maltese culture to the Chinese tourists," he added. MTA believes that many Chinese are not just interested in sightseeing, but care about exposure to the "live in the local" experience, which includes food, photography, weddings, civic life and so on. Bugeja thinks that the Mediterranean lifestyle and Malta's complex history, among other cultural aspects, are great attractions for Asian tourists. The modern Chinese tourists are on a voyage of learning and discovery, and Malta can offer English teaching, culinary delights and traditional industries to them, according to Bugeja. In order to attract more visitors to Malta, MTA has been making grand strides in expanding the Chinese tourist market. They are in cooperation with Caissa Travel Agency and the Bank of China, and are working towards establishing new agreements with other Chinese tour operators. MTA has also established official accounts on Weibo and Wechat, as well as providing a Chinese destination brochure and a Chinese language version of the "Visit Malta" website. As more Chinese enter the country, museums, attractions, restaurants and hotels will begin providing Chinese translations. From last month, Chinese visitors can reclaim VAT on purchases in Malta and receive VAT refund via Alipay directly converted into RMB. "In the long run, Chinese tourists not only bring economy growth to Malta's tourism, but also stimulated the development of other supporting industries," Bugeja told Xinhua. Malta welcomed 6,000 Chinese tourists in 2016, and MTA is confident that number will grow this year. It aims to reach 10,000 Chinese tourists by the end of 2018. File Photo: Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai speaks at a reception celebrating the 90th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) at the Chinese embassy in Washington D.C., the United States, on July 27, 2017. (Xinhua/Ting Shen) WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- China's outward-looking vision will continue to bring about win-win scenarios for China and its partners across the world, including the United States, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai said on Monday. In an article published on CNN.com, Cui noted that China will hold the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China this week, which will set China's national direction for at least the next five years. "This is a momentous time for China, not only because we expect that the party congress will illustrate that China's unrelenting effort in reform and opening up has added further momentum not only to its own development, but also to that of the world economy," Cui said in the article. China had previously shown the party congresses can be the beginning of tremendous determination and development, he said. Domestically, the Chinese people's life quality has seen a marked improvement, the ambassador noted, with the average life expectancy in China reaching 76.34 years in 2015 and more than 700 million people having been lifted out of poverty since 1978, according to the World Bank. Internationally, China remains a leading performer in economic growth, the ambassador added. China, especially since its last party congress, also has taken steps to increase contributions to international economic governance, through strong endorsement of globalization and free trade, and groundbreaking endeavors like the Asian Infrastructure Development Bank and the Belt and Road Initiative, Cui said. "Through approaches like these, we seek to bring the whole world forward by closing gaps in development and poverty -- which undermine global security -- while also engaging with partners like the United States in new and mutually constructive ways," Cui emphasized. The United States, as China's second largest trading partner, has benefited immensely from these initiatives, Cui noted. Cui also said, "While we have many areas of cooperation that promote global economic stability, there are still some issues that could threaten to weaken the relationship as a whole." "However, through dialogue, our two countries can address these concerns, which in turn will benefit the global economy," said Cui. China's success has demonstrated that an open and more prosperous China can benefit the world, Cui stressed, adding that its efforts will bring even bigger benefits to the U.S. economy and the livelihood of the American people as China continues to develop its own economy and to strengthen the China-U.S. economic relationship. "As we go into this week's Party Congress, we do so with great optimism and a high regard for our partnership with the United States. If we continue to work together in the economic sphere and beyond, the whole world is sure to benefit," Cui said. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 02:20:39|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close GENEVA, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Iraqis are returning home in Mosul after years of violence to find their houses rigged with explosive devices and their cities uninhabitable, the international medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) said Tuesday. MSF, known in English as Doctors Without Borders, said in a statement that the destruction of buildings and infrastructure means that returning families, particularly in West Mosul, end up living in partially or totally ruined homes, with almost no access to clean water, electricity or medical care. "What we see in our medical facilities are tell-tale signs of the living conditions outside," Geneva-based MSF quoted its project coordinator in West Mosul, Myriam Burger, as saying. West Mosul was the scene of a fierce battle between the Islamic State terrorist group and Iraqi coalition forces earlier this year. Until recently MSF said it was still receiving war-related injuries. Yet more people begin to return home, it is seeing a stark increase in patients suffering from intestinal infections after drinking dirty water, and food poisoning due to lack of electricity and gas for refrigeration and cooking. "Children especially are developing skin problems and rashes due to lack of hygiene and after playing in sewage water around burst pipes," Burger said. MSF said unexploded ordnance and booby-traps have killed and wounded returnees. In recent days, two teenage boys from a family of five were killed as they tried to move a rocket that was rigged up to explode in their living room in West Mosul. Elsewhere in the city, a toddler was killed instantly and her older brother injured when she picked up a toy full of explosives. The family had just returned home for the first time since fighting ended in West Mosul. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 03:10:54|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BUCHAREST, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The three new members of Romania's reshuffled cabinet took the oath of office Tuesday before President Klaus Iohannis in a ceremony at Cotroceni Presidential Palace. Earlier, Iohannis signed the decrees appointing Paul Stanescu as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Regional Development, Public Administration and European Funds; Felix Stroe as Minister of Transport; and Marius Nica as Minister-delegate for European Funds. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Mihai Tudose, Deputy Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, two MPs, as well as presidential adviser Cosmin Marinescu. Iohannis did not speak as usual at the end of the ceremony. This may be the most deserted and shortest swearing ceremony in recent years, as both heads of Parliament chambers announced not to attend the ceremony, as an expression of the further frigid relations between the leadership of governing coalition and the head of state. The prime minister on Monday sent to the presidency the new proposals for ministers which were approved last week at a National Executive Committee meeting of the main ruling Social Democratic Party. There are indications that discordance began to be felt inside the ruling coalition made of the Social Democratic Party and the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats, especially within the Social Democrats. The discord between the prime minister and his party leader Liviu Dragnea became apparent after the former announced early last week at a private television station that he would reshuffle his cabinet by replacing several ministers and would consider resigning if the party leadership would refuse his request. He also mentioned his dissatisfaction over the party's involvement in certain cabinet decisions. The cabinet reshuffle will temporarily ease the tensions between the prime minister and the party's leaders, but local analysts generally believed that the prime minister would continue to argue for greater government decision-making power, meaning that the struggle within the ruling party would continue. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 03:51:09|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close Tripoli, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Gunmen in southern Libya threatened to destroy water and gas pipelines if a detainee is not released from the capital Tripoli. A video footage showed an armed group led by Khalifa Ehneish standing inside the main control room of the southern water pipeline system, demanding Tripoli's Special Deterrence Force to release of his brother, Al-Mabruk Ehneish. The group granted the Special Deterrence Force 72 hours to release Al-Mabruk Ehneish, or else they will burn the system in the south. The water pipeline system, know as the man-made river, which was made during the Gaddafi rule in 1984, supplies western and eastern Libya with fresh water from the south. The Special Deterrent Force of the Interior Ministry on Sunday said they stopped a plan to take control of the capital Tripoli by armed groups of the supporters of the former regime and mercenaries from Sudan's Justice and Equality Movement. Al-Mabruk Ehneish is accused of commanding an armed group of 120 members, and leading "a resistance movement called the Popular Front for the Liberation of Libya led by some supporters of the former regime," with the aim of "destabilizing the security of the country and changing the system of governance," according to the Special Deterrent Force. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 04:01:13|Editor: Song Lifang Video Player Close KHARTOUM, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Sudan on Tuesday expressed appreciation over stances of the Arab League (AL) in support of Khartoum at all regional and international forums, as well as on the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Sudan's Foreign Ministry said the country would continue commitment to work for the AL objectives. It also mentioned AL's support to adoption of Sudan's rehabilitation project and the initiative by Sudan's president regarding the Arab food security. The AL issued earlier a statement welcoming the U.S. decision to lift the economic sanctions imposed on Sudan. It said the U.S. move came in line with the positive measures taken by the Sudanese government to stop hostilities in all conflict areas, improve the delivery and access of humanitarian aid, as well as to cooperate with Washington to resolve regional conflicts and counter terrorism. The United States has been imposing sanctions on Sudan since 1997 and listing it as one of the countries sponsoring terrorism. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 04:06:15|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close LAGOS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria has deployed four warships, gunboats and troops for special training exercise, the Nigerian navy said Tuesday. The two-day exercise, code-named "Exercise Pouncer," is aimed at equipping troops with requisite skills while checking their combat readiness to tackle piracy and other criminality in the nation's maritime domain, said Rear Adm. Victor Adedipe, flag officer with Eastern Naval Command. "Four ships and one helicopter will take part in the exercise while smaller crafts (gunboats) would operate at the backwaters," he said. Adedipe said the exercise would hone troops' proficiency in maritime operation and test strategies without actual combat. He said the navy was desirous to putting an end to maritime crimes such as piracy, sea robbery, hijacking, illegal bunkering and crude oil theft. Adedipe said the exercise would be held in the nation's territorial waters and not be extended to the Gulf of Guinea. The Gulf of Guinea, which is believed to hold as much as 10 percent of the world's oil reserves, has been plagued by pirates, smugglers and other criminals. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 04:16:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close KHARTOUM, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday condemned the terrorist bombing earlier this week in the Somali capital of Mogadishu. "Sudan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its strong condemnation of the terrorist bombing which took place at the heart of the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday evening," said the ministry in a statement. The ministry described the bombing as "a crime contradicting all humanitarian values and principles." It expressed condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Somalia. It also stressed Sudan's full solidarity with the government of Somalia in facing the criminal acts, renewing its call for the international community to intensify its effort and cooperation in the face of all forms of terrorist and criminal activities. At least 276 people were killed and more than 300 others injured in the bombing that happened on Saturday in a shopping area of Mogadishu, making it the deadliest single attack in Somalia's history. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 04:31:23|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BEIRUT, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- China's Ambassador to Lebanon Wang Kejian stressed Tuesday that Lebanon and China could enhance bilateral cooperation by reviving the Silk Road and re-activating the trade and cultural exchanges between the two countries. Wang was speaking to reporters after meeting with MP Bahia Hariri to discuss bilateral relations and opportunities for development, the National News Agency (NNA) reported. The ambassador noted that "positive developments in the relations and stronger ties between the two nations began during late Prime Minister Rafik Hariri's term in office," stressing that "the ties have been further strengthened with the government of Prime Minister Saad Hariri." The meeting also focused on the situation in Sidon, the third largest city in Lebanon, and possible opening of the city to China. "We will further cooperation between China and Sidon in order to benefit both sides," Wang said. The Chinese ambassador praised Lebanon's openness to the world and the country's interaction with different cultures. The new Silk Road, also known as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, is a Chinese project conceived as a revival of the ancient Silk Road trade route with modern technology that aims to bolster China's global role by building an infrastructure and trade network that links between Asia with Africa and Europe. Wang later met with head of the Municipal Council of Sidon Mohammad Saoudi and South Lebanon's governor Mansour Daou. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 04:41:25|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close DUBAI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces announced on Tuesday the death of two pilots after their aircraft crashed, the state-run Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported. Commander-in-Chief Ali Saeed Saif Al-Massmari and First Pilot Bader Yahya Mohammed Al-Marashdeh were killed in the crash, a result of "a technical malfunction in the operations of the coalition forces led by Saudi Arabia," said the WAM statement. The General Command of the Armed Forces extended its condolences to the families of the killed air servicemen. Since March 2015, a Saudi-led military coalition has been fighting the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The UAE is one of the nine Arab states to support Yemen's internationally recognized government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 04:51:27|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close RABAT, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Morocco firmly condemned on Tuesday the "despicable" terrorist attack that targeted Somali capital Mogadishu and claimed hundreds of lives. In a message to the Somali president, King Mohammed VI voiced support to Somalia after this "appalling criminal act that runs counter all human values and Islam teachings." The king expressed to the Somali president, the victims' families and the brotherly Somali people his heartfelt condolences, solidarity and compassion, wishing the injured speedy recovery and patience for the victims' families. At least 300 people were killed and hundreds seriously injured in the attack blamed on militant group al-Shabaab. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 05:21:38|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TRIPOLI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Libyan coast guards on Tuesday rescued 147 illegal immigrants off the coast of the western city Garabulli. "Coast Guards vessel rescued 147 illegal immigrants of different African nationalities off the coast of Garabulli," the Coast Guards said. "The rescued illegal immigrants were taken to Tripoli naval base. Medical assistance was provided by the International Medical Corps. After that, they were handed over to the Anti-illegal Immigration Department and transferred to Tajura reception center," the Coast Guards added. The Anti-illegal Immigration Department on Tuesday said that 40 Bangladeshi migrants were repatriated from Libya as part of the humanitarian repatriation program of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Libyan authorities. IOM on Monday said that more than 8,000 illegal immigrants have been repatriated voluntarily from Libya this year so far. Insecurity and chaos in Libya that followed the 2011 uprising led to massive flows of migrants through the Mediterranean towards European shores. Those who are rescued at sea by Libyan navy are detained in reception centers with poor living conditions. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 05:31:44|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The number of Rohingya refugees arriving in Bangladesh hit 582,000 people over the weekend as a senior UN official toured by air "dozens of burned and destroyed villages" they had fled from in Myanmar. Chief UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said that Jeffrey Feltman, undersecretary-general for political affairs, also met with senior Myanmar officials and visited several communities affected by recent violence and camps outside Sittwe for internally displaced persons (IDPs) set up in 2012. Myanmar authorities had severely restricted access, including by humanitarian workers, to the besieged region in the northwest populated by the Muslim Rohingyas, until recently. "He witnessed how, in addition to the documented endemic discrimination against the Rohingya population, socio-economic challenges adversely affect all communities," said Dujarric, who explained the jump from 525,000 to 582,000 over the weekend was caused in part by "strengthened assessments" by authorities of people coming over the border. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) said it is "concerned about the thousands of refugees stranded in Bangladesh near its border with Myanmar." "Since Sunday evening up to 15,000 refugees entered Bangladesh," Dujarric said. "Many of them said they had initially chosen to stay in their homes in Myanmar's northern Rakhine State despite threats to leave or be killed and finally fled when their villages were set on fire." "Many of the refugees are still waiting for permission to move away from the border," he said. "The agency is advocating with Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these people." In the past, the United Nations has thanked Bangladesh for hosting the refugees. The World Health Organization said that in the first phase of its oral cholera vaccine campaign with the government and UNICEF (the UN Children's Agency) in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, 680,000 people over the age of 1 have been covered, the spokesman said. Authorities were concerned about the spread of diseases because of the crush of people concentrated in Bangladeshi refugee camps. In his meetings with top Myanmar officials, Feltman, the UN's political affairs chief, noted the government's endorsement of the recommendations of the final report of the international Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, chaired by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, and urged their comprehensive implementation, the spokesman said. Feltman urged the Myanmar government "to support the full implementation of the Advisory Commission's recommendations and credible investigations into allegations of human rights abuses by security officials in Rakhine," Dujarric said. "He underscored the importance of accountability and non-discriminatory rule of law and public safety as part of the comprehensive approach needed to address the fears and distrust among communities in Rakhine." On Aug. 25, a Rohingya militia allegedly attacked three police posts in Rakhine and vigilantes and the government retaliated with attacks on Rohingyas and their villages, causing hundreds of thousands to flee their villages into neighboring Bangladesh. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 05:46:50|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close MINSK, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The gross domestic product (GDP) of Belarus increased by 1.7 percent year on year in the first nine months of this year, the Belarusian National Statistical Committee said Tuesday. Belarusian Prime Minister Andrei Kobyakov said at a cabinet meeting that the Belarusian economy hit the annual GDP target through September this year. "The overall situation in the economy is stable. Almost all the key targets that indicate the effectiveness of the government work and the central bank are fulfilled," Kobyakov said. Positive trends in the main branches of the Belarusian economy are retained. By September, industrial production rose by 6.1 percent while the performance of Belarusian agriculture grew by 1.7 percent compared with the same period of last year. The Belarusian government expects to maintain its GDP increase by 1.7 percent to the end of the year. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 05:56:52|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close RABAT, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- A Moroccan court on Tuesday postponed until Oct. 24 the trial of 21 protesters arrested for their role in organizing demonstrations that rocked the north-eastern region for months. They face charges ranging from conspiring against the state to protesting without authorization. Dozens of family members chanted outside the Casablanca courthouse where the detained protest leaders were due to go on trial. The trial date has not been set for Nasser Zefzafi, the movement leader, who faces charge of undermining state security. The protest movement erupted after a fish vendor was crushed to death last year in the city of Al Hoceima. The demand for justice for the vendor evolved into a major grassroots movement that Morocco has not witnessed since 2011. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 05:56:53|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close DAMASCUS -- The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have fully captured Syria's northern city of Raqqa, after defeating the Islamic State (IS) group on Tuesday, the SDF spokesman told Xinhua. "The military operations in Raqqa have ended and now the city is being mopped up in search of sleeper cells if existed," Talal Silo told Xinhua. (Syria-Raqqa) - - - - BAGHDAD -- The president of the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan, Masoud Barzani, said on Tuesday the Kurdish Peshmerga forces will withdraw in Iraq to their lines in 2016 before the battles that liberated Mosul from Islamic State (IS) militants. In his first statement after the withdrawal of the Kurdish Peshmerga forces from Kirkuk province, Barzani said "due to the withdrawal, the (defensive) line changed to be on the line that was agreed upon between Baghdad and Erbil before the operations to free Mosul on Oct. 17, 2016." (Iraq-Kurds-Withdrawal) - - - - ANKARA -- At least six workers were killed and another injured after a coal mine collapsed in Turkey's southeastern Province of Sirnak on Tuesday, local news channel NTV reported. The rescue team was also searching for another worker trapped inside the mine in Sirnak's Cizre district, according to the report. (Turkey-Mine) - - - - JERUSALEM -- Israel said Tuesday that it will not negotiate with a Palestinian government that includes the Islamic Hamas movement, a week after a Palestinian reconciliation deal was signed. Israel's security cabinet said in a statement that it would acknowledge the agreement reached by the Fatah party and Hamas "only under certain conditions." (Israel-Palestine-Talks' Conditions) Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 05:56:54|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TRIPOLI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Libya's national defense and security committee of the eastern-based parliament on Tuesday called for an urgent investigation into allegations about the Tripoli-based UN-backed Foreign Minister granting a diplomatic passport to a foreigner. Tarek al-Jaroushi, a member of the committee, added that the defense committee called on the general intelligence agency and the attorney general to start an urgent investigation into this case, plus "officially order cancelling of passports issued to foreigners, and circulate the cancellation of passports to the ports." Tarek Shoaib, deputy foreign minister of the government of national accord, accused earlier foreign minister, Mohamed Sayala, of granting diplomatic passports to foreigners, including the Syrian wife of the Vice President of the Libyan-Arab bank Mohamed Abdel-Jawad. Sayala responded, saying that the passport was renewed "because it was issued during the time of former regime by order of the previous leader (Muammar Gaddafi) ... It was also renewed by the successive governments that came after the February uprising." Libya remains politically divided despite signing a UN-sponsored peace agreement and appointment of a unity government. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 06:06:58|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TRIPOLI, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Clashes renewed in the center of the Libyan capital Tripoli on Tuesday, which led to closure of the nearby Tripoli international airport for the third time in less than two days. "The clashes erupted again in residential neighborhoods of Ghararat area hours after security forces took control. Patrols of the Special Deterrence Force came under heavy fire," a security source told Xinhua. "The clashes are still continuing. Flights in the Tripoli International Airport have been stopped because clashes are too close to the airport, and ammunition could hit airplanes flying over the area," the source added. This closure is the third in less than two days. It was closed on Tuesday morning for a few hours before flights were resumed. The Special Deterrence Force of the Interior Ministry earlier declared taking control of the area and considered it a "military zone." "Many of the criminals have been arrested in Ghararat area. The area is now being fully secured," the Force said earlier. Tuesday clashes killed three and injured four others, including an officer of the Deterrent Force, according to security and medical sources. The Force warned residents against "moving in places of clashes for their safety." Libya suffers security vacuum and unrest since the uprising that toppled former leader Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011. The country is plagued with chaos and political division. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 06:17:00|Editor: Hou Qiang Video Player Close Tripoli, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Benghazi Court of Appeal on Tuesday suspended a decision of the Tripoli-based Presidential Council to form seven military zones. The court said that it issued its ruling to the appeal filed by the Council's Vice-President Fathi al-Majbari, along with other deputies, against the Presidential Council's decision. The Court formally accepted the appeal and suspended the execution of the decision, saying that the decision was taken by the President of the Council and Prime Minister Fayez Serraj individually without consulting his deputies, which is contrary to the Articles of the Political Agreement. Serraj issued a decision earlier in June to form seven military zones throughout the country. The decision triggered disputes with the commander of the eastern-based army, General Khalifa Haftar, who rejected the decision because of the "explicit interference in the army's tasks." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 06:37:04|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close by Hummam Sheikh Ali DAMASCUS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The defeat of the Islamic State (IS) group in its main stronghold in Syria's Raqqa province has dealt a strong blow to terrorism in Syria and the region, analysts said. The IS has lost its de facto capital of Raqqa to the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on Tuesday, the first major defeat to the terror-designated group in the heartland of its control in northern Syria since its self-styled caliphate announced in 2014 in Syria. Talal Silo, the spokesman of the SDF, told Xinhua on Tuesday that the military operations against the IS in Raqqa have ended, adding that the city is liberated from the IS, but the SDF forces are mopping up the city in search of possible sleeper cells and mines. Finally, gone are the days of the beheading and the gruesome killings on cameras, as the IS militants are now running for their lives, whether following their downfall in Raqqa, or in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour, where the Syrian army and allied fighters are advancing. By losing Raqqa, the IS has tasted the bitterness of loss, and sure this big defeat has mentally affected the group's coherence. Hmaidi Abdullah, a Syrian political analyst, told Xinhua that defeating the IS in Raqqa is positive, regardless of who made this victory. "Without a doubt, liberating Raqqa from Daesh constitutes a big blow to the terrorist groups, in terms of their actual existence," he told Xinhua, using the Arabic acronym for the IS. Abdullah also pointed out to the defeats the IS militants are suffering in Deir al-Zour by the hands of the Syrian government forces and their Iranian-backed allies. "The battles of Deir al-Zour, more specifically in the city of Bukama in that province's countryside, will be the last offensive against the IS, as it's their last stronghold in Syria," he said. The importance of Deir al-Zour militarily is its proximity to Iraq, where the Iraqi forces are closing in on the IS in areas under their control on the Iraqi-Syrian border. "If the Iraqi army moves in against the IS in the border region, the battle in Syria will take hours before the IS is completely defeated," Abdullah noted. After ending the IS in Deir al-Zour, the group will be completely eradicated in Syria, and the focus will be shifted toward the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, the second terror-designated group in Syria, which is largely based in the northwestern province of Idlib, Abdullah added. He noted that the situation between the U.S.-backed SDF, which is an alliance of Kurds, Arabs and Assyrian fighters led by the Kurdish YPG group, and the Russian-backed Syrian army will be discussed in terms of the areas under the SDF control in northern Syria. He expected that the situation between both sides will be discussed politically, as the SDF and the Kurdish fighters, in general, are fighting to establish a federal rule in northern Syria, a matter Damascus said negotiable. Osama Danura, another political analyst and a former member of the government delegation to the intra-Syrian talks in Geneva, said that the U.S.-Russian understandings will identify the fate of the region in the post-IS era. The analyst noted that driving out the IS from Raqqa and their near defeat in Deir al-Zour is "an important moment and will determine what happens next." "The situation will either escalate or move toward solution between the parties in the eastern region, or it will be shifted toward ending Nusra in Idlib," he said. But Anas Joudeh, the head of the Nation Building Movement, didn't expect an escalation between the SDF and the Syrian army. He told Xinhua he didn't see any confrontation between both sides, at least in the near future, noting that neither sides want such confrontation, nor their backers. While considering the defeat of the IS in Raqqa as "positive," Joudeh said that the end of the IS in Raqqa or even in Deir al-Zour comes in the natural context of the U.S.-Russian understanding. He said the defeat of the IS was expected, and not surprising. However, Joudeh noted defeating the IS physically doesn't mean the end of the terrorist ideology. "If we defeat the IS and didn't fight its ideology, it could re-emerge again in another shape," he said, stressing that "the most important thing to prevent the re-emergence of the IS is to reach political solution and reconciliation in Syria." Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 06:47:06|Editor: Song Lifang Video Player Close CARACAS, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Tuesday the outcome of last weekend's regional elections had sent a strong message to U.S. President Donald Trump. Sunday's elections saw the ruling socialist party PSUV win 17 out of 23 states and the opposition Democratic Unity Roundtable (MUD) only won five states in the regional elections, according to the National Electoral Council. "Our people have been wise, our people have sent a brutal message to the imperialist government of Donald Trump, to his regional allies and to the local right wing," Maduro told local and international media gathered for a press conference. "Venezuela has just undergone a very important electoral process that has influenced the future of the (national) situation for this year and coming years," he said. Maduro also defended the election process in the wake of the MUD refusing to recognize the election results. "In Venezuela it is impossible to carry out electoral fraud because the system is automated and audited at every stage: before, during and after" votes are cast, he said. In Venezuela, each voter registers his or her fingerprint at the voting machine to begin the process. Once the vote is cast, the machine issues a voting slip that is deposited in a ballot box. Source: Xinhua| 2017-10-18 06:57:07|Editor: Song Lifang Video Player Close BANJUL, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Gambian Finance Minister Amadou Sanneh on Tuesday signed a loan agreement of 45 million U.S. dollars with the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) to support the Gambia's National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC). Sanneh said the loan is expected to help the public companies in financing their operations, including the import of heavy fuel. "The loan financing falls under the framework agreement signed with the Gambia in May 2017, for a three years period, during the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) Group's 42nd Annual Meeting that took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with the total amount of 210 million U.S. dollars in support of its strategic sectors," he said. Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of ITFC, said in May that the agreement was a milestone to boost the main sector of the Gambian economy. "Energy is critical for supplying the country with fuel and electricity, in addition to development, this signing contributes to intra OIC trade as the products to be financed would be sourced mainly from OIC Member Countries," he added. NAWEC has been struggling to provide normal power supply affecting the operations of several businesses in the country. iStock/Thinkstock(WASHINGTON) -- The FBI is helping authorities in Malta investigate a car bomb that killed a journalist who exposed the nation's ties to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers. Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, was reportedly killed Monday as she drove away from her home near Mosta, on Malta's main island, according to the BBC. U.S. Department of State spokesperson Heather Nauert condemned Galizia's death as "appalling violence in the strongest terms possible" in a press briefing Tuesday. Nauert called for a "thorough, transparent" investigation, saying that the FBI is providing "specific assistance as needed" at the request of Maltese authorities. Muscat described Galizia's death as a "barbaric attack" and a "political murder," as well as an assault on freedom of expression. Galizia was "was one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level," Muscat said. Galizia wrote that Muscat's wife, along with the country's energy minister and the government's chief of staff, had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan, according to the AP. Muscat and his wife denied that they had companies in Panama. Thousands of people gathered in Sliema Monday night for a candlelight vigil in tribute to Galizia. The slain journalist had been a columnist for The Malta Independent for more than 20 years and also wrote a blog called the "Running Commentary." She is survived by her husband and three sons. Copyright 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. It is the duty of every person in the country to provide our children the opportunity and experience of being citizens of a better India, says President New Delhi, Tue, 17 Oct 2017 NI Wire null The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, graced and addressed the closing ceremony of the Bharat Yatra for a Surakshit Bachpan-Surakshit Bharat being organised by Kailash Satyarthi Childrens Foundation at Rashtrapati Bhavan (October 16, 2017). Speaking on the occasion, the President said that he believed that even if one child is unsafe, all society is guilty. Therefore, this Yatra for a Surakshit Bachpan-Surakshit Bharat is a big step towards providing a safe environment for children in our nation. It is the duty of every person in the country to connect with the objectives of this Yatra and provide our children the opportunity and experience of being citizens of a better India. The President said that Shri Kailash Satyarthi has been contributing towards the cause of human rights of children for almost 40 years. He said he had been made aware that more than 85,000 children have been rescued from atrocities by the efforts of Shri Satyarthi. They have received educational opportunities and have been helped to start their lives afresh. The President said that there are policies and laws to ensure the rights of children in our country. However, these rights can only be ensured through the awareness and sensitivity of the entire society. Millions of people, from south to north, have been made aware of this issue through this Bharat Yatra. The President said the country must come together to ensure every child receives education and achieves his or her full potential with freedom and dignity, while being healthy and secure. Shri Kailash Satyarthis Foundation is always striving to achieve these objectives. He appreciated the Foundation and all those associated with it. He hoped that together we would build an India where there will be no scope for sexual abuse and human trafficking of children. Speaking on the occasion, Nobel Prize Laureate Shri Kailash Satyarthi said the Bharat Yatra for Surakshit Bachpan-Surakshti Bharat was a non-violent war on sexual abuse, rape and trafficking of children. He said that the voices of children cannot be silent any more. On Diwali this year, he urged all to light a lamp in the name of protection of children. On the occasion, the President also lit a symbolic Diya Bal Suraksha Jyoti. A photo exhibition was hosted at the venue and a short film that provided a glimpse of the Bharat Yatra was also screened. Source: PIB null Science is the cornerstone for progress of mankind: Vice President Chennai, Tue, 17 Oct 2017 NI Wire Addresses valedictory session of 3rd India International Science Festival - 2017 The Vice President of India, M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that science is the cornerstone for the progress of mankind. He was addressing the valedictory session of the 3rd India International Science Festival 2017, jointly organised by the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, in Chennai yesterday. The Governor of Tamil Nadu, Banwarilal Purohit, the Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, the Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Shri Y.S. Chowdary and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. The Vice President said the scientific inventions have revolutionized the world and shaped every aspect of the modern life. He further time has come now for every Indian to work towards recapturing our past glory and make India one of the leading nations in scientific and technological innovations. The Vice President said India to reach new pinnacles in Science & Technology concerted efforts from governments as well as different sections of the society is needed to hugely step up large scale R & D activities in different domains. He further said that artificial Intelligence, robotics, Internet of Things, big data analytics and digital manufacturing are going to change the way we are going to live. Corporate bodies and industries have to set aside an exclusive corpus for encouraging innovative, out-of-the-box R & D projects and disruptive technologies that could provide long-lasting answers to problems faced by the people, he added. The Vice President said that we need to create an ecosystem for bright researchers to thrive and ensure that youngsters do not get stifled by rules, red tape and favoritism. He further said that they must feel free to discuss ideas and take up innovative research. Ultimately, science should find solutions to the problems faced by mankind and make this planet a better place for the present and future generations, he added. Following is the text of Vice President's address: "I am delighted to be present at the India International Science Festival-2017, the third in the series of such events being organized by the Ministry of Science & Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences and Vijnana Bharati. Science is the cornerstone for the progress of mankind. Scientific inventions have revolutionized the world and shaped every aspect of the modern life. Indians have made significant contribution to the field of science from ancient times and are now in the forefront in state-of-the-art space technologies and the IT revolution sweeping the world. Friends, Science & Technology has been part of Indias culture and tradition. The scientific bent of mind in ancient India was reflected right from the use of zero, place values, algebra, concept of atom, calculation eclipses, among others. Sushruta Samhita talks of surgery while Charak describes hundreds of diseases, their causes and treatment methods. The urban settlements of Mohenjo Daro and Harappa, production of highest quality steel and extraction of sugar are other examples when India was more advanced than the rest of the world. We owe a lot to the Indians, who taught us how to count, without which no worthwhile scientific discovery could have been made, vouched the great scientist, Albert Einstein. Well-known writer and philosopher, Will Durant had this to say: India was the motherland of our race and Sanskrit the mother of Europe's languages. India was the mother of our philosophy, of much of our mathematics, of the ideals embodied in Christianity of self-government and democracy. In many ways, Mother India is the mother of us all. After demonstrating our knowledge to the world in the ancient times in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, yoga and ayurveda, India somehow lost its way following Mughal invasions and colonization. The time has now come for every Indian to work towards recapturing our past glory and make India one of the leading nations in scientific and technological innovations in the coming decades. For this to happen, there has to be concerted efforts from the governments as well as different sections of the society - right from teachers, who mould young minds, to universities and industries, who need to hugely step up R & D activities in different domains. Unless research is taken up on a large scale, India will not be able to reach new pinnacles in Science & Technology. In spite of the remarkable scientific achievements the world has witnessed from invention of telescope to discovery of Higgs boson, mankind continues to face numerous challenges such as those relating to climate change, global warming, sustainable development, clean energy and water and diseases. Only science can throw up solutions for the present and emerging problems in the years to come. Artificial Intelligence, robotics, Internet of Things, big data analytics and digital manufacturing are going to change the way we are going to live. These areas need to be fully exploited with innovative and disruptive technologies. Investments in S & T need to be stepped up to address various problems the country is facing today such as poverty, unemployment, pollution, diseases, urban-rural divide, lack of clean drinking water as also the issues relating to crime and security, among others. Here, I would like to appeal to various corporate bodies and industries to join hands and set up an exclusive corpus for encouraging innovative, out-of-the-box R & D projects and disruptive technologies that could provide long-lasting answers to problems faced by the people. I am happy that successive governments at the Centre have accorded importance to S & T and created the necessary infrastructure for scientists and academics to pursue their research. CSIR and ICMR are among the leading research bodies and have earned global recognition for their cutting edge work. My advice to these two premier organizations is to create an ecosystem for bright researchers to thrive and ensure that youngsters do not get stifled by rules, red tape and favoritism. They must feel free to discuss ideas and take up innovative research. I would like the Department of Science and Technology to work closely with the Ministry of Human Resources to make science learning interesting and interactive right from early schooling. This is needed to inculcate greater interest in science among school students so that more and more youngsters take up basic research. I am happy to note that the ministries have aligned their activities with the national agenda of the government towards Make in India, Start up India, Digital India, Swasth Bharat and Swachh Bharat. It is also a matter of pride that Department of Science & Technology is involved in a number of global projects like the 30-meter Telescope Project and Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory project. I am also happy to note that India today is among the 12 biotech destinations and ranks third in the Asia-Pacific region. India also has the second highest number of US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approved plants after the USA and is the largest producer of recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine. I am sure this series of India International Science Festivals will generate new ideas and act as a catalyst in promoting scientific temper among the people. Ultimately, science should find solutions to the problems faced by mankind and make this planet a better place for the present and future generations. JAI HIND!" Source: PIB A 47-year-old businessman, Henry Ekuase, has been brought before an lkeja Magistrates Court, Lagos State, for alleged fraud. The police said Ekuase fraudulently obtained the sum of N335m from a Union Bank branch at Marina Stallion Plaza on the Lagos Island. It was learnt that Henry had acquired the sum as a loan from the bank to trade in beverages. He was arraigned on Monday on three counts bordering on false pretences and fraud to which he pleaded not guilty. The police prosecutor, Inspector N. Peter, said Henry committed the offence sometime in November 2016. He said the offence was contrary to and punishable under sections 285, 314(1)(a)(b)(2) and 322(3) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015. The charges read in part, That you, Henry Ekuase, sometime in 2016, at No. 36, Marina Stallion Plaza, Lagos Island, in the Lagos Magisterial District, with intent to defraud, did obtain N335,363,146.76 from Union Bank Nigeria Plc. with pretence of trading in Nestle products, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 314(1)(a)(b)(2) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015. That you, on the same date, time and place, in the aforementioned magisterial district, did issue Unity Bank Cheque number 002082091, dated May 31, 2016, for N900,000.00; cheque number 002082090, dated June 24, 2016, for N2,500,000.00, and cheque number 00208209, dated July 26, 2016, for N5,000,000.00; money that you fraudulently obtained from the bank and which was returned unpaid due to insufficient fund standing in the account, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 322(3) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015. The presiding magistrate, Mrs. Y.O. Aje-Afunwa, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N50m with two sureties in like sum. She said one of the sureties must be a resident within the jurisdiction of the court, adding that both sureties should provide evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government. The case was adjourned till December 6, 2017, for mention. President Muhammadu Buhari will tomorrow depart for Istanbul, Turkey, to participate in the ninth Summit of the Developing 8 (D-8), on Friday Oct 20. The President will be accompanied to Turkey by Cabinet Ministers, and other senior government officials. In Ankara the Nigerian and the Turkish delegations will hold discussions in various fields including defence coop, security, education & migration The President will also visit the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara and meet with the Speaker, Ismail Kahraman. 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. Moroccos education ministry is set to ban niqab at schools because it deems that the dress hinders communication and obstructs the achievement of pedagogical aims. The Moroccan press reported that the decision comes after several female teachers were given warnings to remove the full-face cover. Last January, Moroccan authorities have warned tailors and vendors of niqab and burqa to cease manufacturing and selling the full veil garment for security reasons. Although the Interior Ministry has not yet commented on the ban, several vendors and tailors of the burqa in different towns and cities received verbal and written warnings to get rid of their stocks, otherwise their shops may be closed and the banned garment confiscated. Several criminals have also used the burqa to perpetrate crimes including thefts. This dress was imported into Morocco from the Middle East in the late 1990s along with extremist ideologies alien to Moroccan society and the color-loving couture that is inherent to Moroccan costumes. Moroccos steady commitment to combat illegal immigration and terrorism were highlighted at the G6 meeting of the interior ministers of Spain, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy and Poland. The participants in this meeting, attended by Morocco as guest country, commended the North African countrys contribution to curbing illegal migration and its important role in safeguarding regional stability and security. Morocco, which was represented at the meeting by Interior minister, Abdelouafi Laftit, was described as a reliable and credible partner who has a key contribution to Mediterranean security. The meeting was also an opportunity to showcase Moroccos achievements in countering illegal migration and human trafficking as well as the Kingdoms counter-terrorism strategy. Speaking at the event, Spanish Interior minister, Juan Ignacio Zoido, stressed the depth of bilateral ties with Morocco saying that the North African country is key to Spains efforts to address illegal immigration and counter terrorism. The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), which is convening its 137th General Assembly in St. Petersburg, Russia, has approved Moroccos proposal to include on the agenda an emergency item on the ongoing humanitarian crisis of the Rohingya, Burmas Muslim minority. The Moroccan proposal, supported by Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Kuwait, Iran, Sudan and Turkey, won 1,027 votes, according to the official news agency MAP. The 1,700 MPs participating in the IPU Assembly welcomed the proposal because of the suffering, persecution, discrimination and displacement endured by the Rohingya minority. A statement from the Moroccan House of Councilors, which is represented at the IPU General Assembly, had announced that the Moroccan delegation made a proposal in the framework of a discussion on the theme: The fight against violence and discrimination against the Rohingyas in Myanmar: Inter-Parliamentary Union. The choice of this theme by the Moroccan Parliament confirms the Kingdoms constant position with regard to the humanitarian crisis faced by the Rohingya minority in Myanmar, the statement had stressed. Last month, Morocco, upon instruction of King Mohammed VI, had sent an emergency humanitarian assistance to alleviate the sufferings of this Muslim minority and support the efforts made by neighboring Bangladesh, which is providing shelter to them. More than 500,000 people have fled Burma and joined the over one million Rohingyas that have already taken refuge in Bangladesh to escape the violence and discrimination they have suffered in the Mykonian region of Arakan for decades. The UN is to hold on October 23 a pledging conference to send a strong message to Rohingya refugees and their generous hosts in Bangladesh that the world is there for them in their greatest time of need. We call on the international community to intensify efforts to bring a peaceful solution to the plight of the Rohingya, to end the desperate exodus, to support host communities and ensure the conditions that will allow for refugees eventual voluntary return in safety and dignity, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said in a joint statement Monday. The origins and, thus, the solutions to this crisis lie in Myanmar, added the UN High Commission for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, the UN aid chief, Mark Lowcock, and the Director General of IOM, William Lacy Swing. Bowe Bergdahl is escorted to the Fort Bragg military courthouse on October 16, 2017. Photo: Sara D. Davis/Getty Images Army sergeant Bowe Bergdahl, who spent five years as a Taliban captive after abandoning his post in Afghanistan, pleaded guilty on Monday to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy. The 31-year-old faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for desertion, and life in prison for misbehavior before the enemy, a rarely used charge applied when troops endanger other service members through misconduct. Bergdahls guilty pleas were not part of a deal with prosecutors. His punishment will be decided by an Army judge at Fort Bragg following a hearing set to begin next week. I understand that leaving was against the law, Bergdahl told the judge, Colonel Jeffery Nance, on Monday. Hes said previously that his intention was to walk to a larger base about 18 miles away to report what he saw as a leadership problem in his unit. But within hours of leaving his base on June 29, 2009, Bergdahl was captured by armed Taliban fighters. They turned him over to the Haqqani network, who subjected him to what one U.S. official said was the worst abuse of an American service member since the Vietnam War. Bergdahl said he did not anticipate that U.S. forces would launch an intense manhunt after he left. I believed they would notice me missing, but I didnt believe they would have reason to search for one private, he said. Army prosecutors argue that the effort to find Bergdahl derailed the war effort, and left some searchers seriously wounded. Prosecutors will present the wounds suffered by Army Master Sergeant Mark Allen, who was shot in the head and is now wheelchair bound and unable to speak, and Senior Chief Petty Officer Jimmy Hatch, a Navy SEAL who suffered a serious leg wound that required multiple surgeries, as evidence. Defense lawyers argue that Bergdahl isnt directly responsible for their injuries. They also say the Army is partly responsible because they allowed him to enlist after he was discharged from Coast Guard basic training for having adjustment disorder with depression. He was later diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder. Bergdahl was released in May 2014, after President Obama made the controversial decision to trade five Guantanamo Bay detainees for his return. Defense lawyers previously tried to argue that Bergdahl could not receive a fair trial after President Trump called him a dirty rotten traitor and publicly called for his execution on several occasions. Colonel Nance said Trumps remarks were disturbing, but did not warrant dismissing the charges. In a newly released interview filmed by a British filmmaker last year, Bergdahl criticized Trump. We may as well go back to kangaroo courts and lynch mobs that got what they wanted, Bergdahl says. The people who want to hang me youre never going to convince those people. He also responded to the rumors that he fought against the U.S. alongside members of the Taliban, which military officials say are false. You know, its just insulting, frankly, Bergdahl said. Its very insulting, the idea that they would think I did that. Retired Army specialist Cody Full, who was in Bergdahls platoon in Afghanistan, told CNN that he still faults him for putting thousands and thousands of peoples lives at risk. He was a coward nine years ago when he deserted, and I think he showed hes still a coward, Full said. He refuses to take responsibility for his actions. Marino. Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty Images Tom Marino, the Republican Pennsylvania congressman who had been nominated for the position of drug czar in the Trump administration, withdrew his name from consideration for the job on Tuesday morning after a blockbuster Washington Post/60 Minutes report detailed his role in a push to prevent law enforcement from cracking down on drug-company malfeasance in the midst of the countrys worst addiction crisis ever. President Trump broke the news of Marinos decision on his Twitter feed. Rep.Tom Marino has informed me that he is withdrawing his name from consideration as drug czar. Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 17, 2017 On Monday, Trump said he was looking into whether Marinos nomination was still viable in the aftermath of the expose, ahead of what he billed as a major announcement on the opioid crisis next week. On Sunday, the Washington Post and 60 Minutes detailed how Marino, with the help of powerful drug companies, had led efforts to pass the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act, which President Obama signed into law in 2016. The law, vociferously opposed by the Drug Enforcement Administration, watered down rules allowing the agency to crack down on drug companies that had unscrupulously allowed strong prescription narcotics to flood the streets. Abuse of such pills was the first step for many Americans to move on to heroin and fentanyl, greatly intensifying a still-worsening drug epidemic that has seen hundreds of thousands of deaths in recent years. In the wake of the report, some Democratic lawmakers urged Trump to reconsider Marinos nomination. West Virginia senator Joe Manchin wrote in a letter to the president that Marino had tied the hands of the DEA in their efforts to enforce our nations laws. A previous version of this article erroneously stated that Marino had been nominated to head the Drug Enforcement Administration. Photo: William Thomas Cain/Getty Images Last night, accepting an award from the National Constitution Center, John McCain denounced the Trump administrations ideology in terms that sounded harsh, and that upon reflection were even harsher. Without naming Trump, but without needing to, the Arizona senator dismissed some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems, likening it to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. Here McCain was comparing the worldview of a president of his own party to communism and fascism a rebuke even deeper, in a way, than Senator Corker comparing him to a doddering half-wit. Corker attacked Trumps competence. McCain attacked his intentions. When he thumbs-downed the Republican health-care plan three months ago, McCain shocked the news media and members of both parties. He had previously displayed barely any interest in the issue at hand, and for more than a decade served as a largely reliable partisan vote that belied his reputation as a maverick. Indeed, the maverick legend had grown so stale that many people, especially liberals, dismissed it as nothing but a legend. But McCain is making it perfectly clear that, in the final chapter of his political career, he has gone into opposition again. If you formed your first impression of McCain during his presidential campaign, you probably see him as an orthodox Republican who deemed Sarah Palin fit for the presidency and voted with his party nearly every time. But the McCain story goes further back. McCain began his career as an orthodox Republican. Having been embarrassed by a campaign-finance scandal, McCain embraced the singular heresy of crusading for campaign finance reform. When he ran for president in 2000, McCain gained traction with the electorate by opposing George W. Bushs plan to give tax cuts to the rich, bringing the wrath of the party Establishment down on his head. The aftermath of that episode left McCain completely, if temporarily, unmoored from party doctrine. Not only did he vote against both the 2001 and 2003 Bush tax cuts, but McCain joined the Democrats on every major domestic dispute of the Bush era: a patients bill of rights, auto-emission standards, reimportation of prescription drugs, closing the gun-show loophole, forcing disclosure of executive compensation, federalizing airport security, and requiring the regulation of greenhouse-gas emissions. McCain was identifying himself as a Theodore Roosevelt Republican a pointed contrast to the staunchly pro-business cast of the Bush-era party and came within a hair of leaving the GOP altogether and caucusing with Democrats as an independent. But McCain never reconsidered or modulated his ultrahawkish foreign-policy views. The political salience of the Iraq War (where his views lined up with the GOP) and his ambitions to become president brought him back into the party fold, and beginning in 2004, McCains constant stream of deviations from the party line ceased. After he managed to make himself sufficiently acceptable to his party Establishment to capture the nomination, he seemed to carry his bitterness with the young senator who defeated him through the eight years of the Obama presidency. The simple heroic story about McCain often told by adoring reporters is a dramatic oversimplification. But so is the simple story told by liberal critics of a bloodthirsty reactionary whose maverick pose is a pure fraud. McCain is a complicated figure buffeted by a mix of ambition, principle, vanity, and strong beliefs in a handful of areas. Like many people, he is capable of acting in both admirable and venal ways, depending on the context. Now McCain finds himself in a context that has brought out his heterodox side. The rise of Donald Trump has split the Republican Party elite. Certain traits predict the kinds of Republicans most likely to go along with the program: immigration restrictionists, isolationists, supply-siders who only care about whether the president will sign their tax cuts, politicians with ambitions to run for president in the future, support for conservative orthodoxy in general. The kinds of Republicans most likely to find Trump repulsive include neoconservatives, immigration doves, women, and institutionalists. Aside from being male, McCain has all the traits that would predict anti-Trumpism. Whereas McCains bitterness with the 2008 election encouraged his opposition to Obama, now his bitterness with the man who mocked him for being captured in Vietnam pushes the other way. Gabriel Shermans reporting for New York last February suggested that McCain saw himself eventually playing a decisive role as an anti-Trump Republican, but that he needed to bide his time. I cant be the car alarm that always goes off. If I am, Im not effective, he told John Weaver. Sherman quoted a former adviser laying out the path: McCain is a savvy political operator, a former adviser said. He sees a critical mass building demanding investigations. He weighs in at the decisive moment to turn it to calls for a select committee, and ultimately hell be the person that tips it to calls for an independent-counsel investigation. And then McCain was diagnosed with cancer, and the luxury of patience was no longer available to him. The schedule has suddenly accelerated, and the version of McCain now on display is the one he clearly wants to be remembered as. Perhaps even more telling than his speech denouncing Trumpism was a McCain tweet endorsing a William Kristol column in The Weekly Standard that all but calls for the breakup of the Republican Party. (It would be foolish to dismiss the case for independent candidacies or new parties. We are, after all, citizens first, not partisans.) It would be unrealistic to expect McCain to leave his party. But there is almost no doubt now that his final act will be as a leader of the Republican rebellion. Daphne Caruana Galizia. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli/AFP/Getty Images Daphne Caruana Galizia, a widely read and widely feared investigative journalist who exposed corruption among the political class in Malta, was killed in a car bomb there on Monday. The bomb exploded as Galizia, 53, was driving near her home in Mosta, just outside the countrys capital of Valletta. The explosion sent debris from her vehicle flying, and catapulted her body over a wall. Galizia ran a blog called Running Commentary, in which she chronicled the misdeeds and venality of powerful politicians. Earlier this year, she linked the countrys prime minister, Joseph Muscat, to the Panama Papers, the cache of documents leaked from a Panamanian law firm in 2015, which implicated many politicians in offshore tax and corruption schemes. Galizia found that Muscats wife, the energy minister, and the governments chief of staff held companies in Panama, which they denied. Muscat called (and won) a presidential election early because of Galizias expose. Everyone knows Ms Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way, Muscat said at a press conference on Monday. He asked the FBI to assist in the investigation of Galizias murder. Other politicians, leaders, and fellow journalists reacted with disbelief and horror throughout the day. This is the darkest day in Maltese politics, opposition leader Adrian Delia said, calling Galizias murder the direct consequence of the total collapse of rule of law in our country. According to The Guardian, Galizias posts often attracted more readers than the combined circulation of the countrys newspaper. Her exposes about Muscat and other influential figures also earned her several libel suits over the years. In her last post, published just 30 minutes before her death, she wrote, ominously, There are crooks everywhere you look now. There is no information on who carried out Galizias killing, though given the number of enemies she made, the list of suspects will likely be long. Maltese TV reported that she filed a police report two weeks before her death, claiming that she was receiving threats. The Times of Malta reports that the country has been hit with a series of unsolved car bombs in recent years, thought to be the work of criminal gangs. High-profile violence is not new to Malta; the country experienced a wave of political bombings and shootings in the 1980s. Trump criticizes his predecessors at Mondays press conference. Photo: The Washington Post/The Washington Post/Getty Images During a press conference on Monday afternoon, President Trump was asked why he has yet to comment on the deaths of four U.S. service members killed in an ISIS ambush in Niger ten days ago. Trump said hed written condolence letters to their families, and planned to call them too: Ive written them personal letters. Theyve been sent, or theyre going out tonight, but they were written during the weekend. I will, at some point during the period of time, call the parents and the families because I have done that, traditionally. I felt very, very badly about that. I always feel badly. Its the toughest the toughest calls I have to make are the calls where this happens, soldiers are killed. Its a very difficult thing. Now, it gets to a point where, you know, you make four or five of them in one day its a very, very tough day. For me, thats by far the toughest. That would have been an acceptable answer (though that doesnt explain why he hasnt made any public comments about the incident). However, since the president cannot accept blame and claims hes the best at everything, he went on to accuse his predecessors of failing to call the families of fallen troops: So, the traditional way if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didnt make calls, a lot of them didnt make calls. I like to call when its appropriate, when I think Im able to do it. They have made the ultimate sacrifice. So, generally, I would say that I like to call. Im going to be calling them. I want a little time to pass. Im going to be calling them. I have as you know, since Ive been president, I have. But in addition, I actually wrote letters individually to the soldiers were talking about, and theyre going to be going out either today or tomorrow. Yes. Trump on soldiers killed in Niger: "President Obama and other presidents, most of them didn't make calls ... I call when it's appropriate." pic.twitter.com/sgj5iEuDhz Axios (@axios) October 16, 2017 This is one of Trumps more outrageous accusations, and he actually walked it back a bit later in the press conference. After a reporter called him out on his false claim that previous presidents didnt reach out to fallen service members families, Trump suggested that he meant hes going above and beyond by reaching out with a letter and a phone call: Q: Earlier, you said that President Obama never called the families of fallen soldiers. How can you make that claim? THE PRESIDENT: I dont know if he did. No, no, no, I was told that he didnt often. And a lot of Presidents dont; they write letters. I do Q: (Inaudible.) THE PRESIDENT: Excuse me, Peter. I do a combination of both. Sometimes its a very difficult thing to do, but I do a combination of both. President Obama I think probably did sometimes, and maybe sometimes he didnt. I dont know. Thats what I was told. All I can do all I can do is ask my generals. Other Presidents did not call. Theyd write letters. And some Presidents didnt do anything. But I like the combination of I like, when I can, the combination of a call and also a letter. Trumps insinuation that previous presidents didnt do enough to reach out to troops families was quickly refuted by journalists, former aides, and people who lost their loved ones: that's a fucking lie. to say president obama (or past presidents) didn't call the family members of soldiers KIA - he's a deranged animal. alyssa *feeling like rachel green* mastromonaco (@AlyssaMastro44) October 16, 2017 Pete Souza: 'I photographed [President Obama] meeting with hundreds of wounded soldiers, and family members of those killed in action.' pic.twitter.com/01pICn3YVo Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) October 16, 2017 This is an outrageous and disrespectful lie even by Trump standards. Also: Obama never attacked a Gold Star family. https://t.co/JgzTUIzWIa Ben Rhodes (@brhodes) October 16, 2017 .@realDonaldTrump When my brother was killed, Pres Bush listened while I screamed at him & then held me as I sobbed, you fat fucking liar. https://t.co/SEIw74OeZG Delilia O'Malley (@DeliliaOMalley) October 16, 2017 Later, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders claimed that Trump wasnt criticizing his predecessors at all, he was merely stating facts: Sometimes they call, sometimes they send a letter, other times they have the opportunity to meet family members in person. But its clear that President Trump wasnt making a technical note based on his detailed analysis of how his predecessors reached out to grieving military families. As with many of Trumps dubious facts, it appears his source is something he heard once in the right-wing media. President Obamas ostensible disrespect for the military was, of course, a popular theme in the conservative press, and it seems Trump might have been referencing some of these reports. While the Washington Times reported in 2009 that Obama wrote out personalized letters to fallen troops families and signed them Barack, what drew more attention was a claim deep in a 2010 story from The News Tribune about a fathers dissatisfaction with how politicians responded to his sons death in Afghanistan. The father said he asked the White House to call his ex-wife and was told that Obama did not regularly make phone calls to the families of fallen soldiers. Trumps note that he actually wrote letters individually was likely a reference to a 2012 post from the Gateway Pundit that claimed President Obama sent grieving military families form letters signed by an electric pen. The White House said Obama personally signs every letter to the families of fallen service members in Iraq and Afghanistan, but did not dispute that they were form letters. (In 2003 Newsweek reported that the sympathy letters sent out by President George W. Bush were form letters as well.) Six days after the 2015 shootings at two military facilities in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the mother of one of the five servicemen killed in the attack appeared on Hannity and said shed yet to receive a call from Obama. There was also uproar from the right about the White House waiting five days to order flags at half-staff. Breitbart illustrated its report, titled Obama Refuses to Call Mother of Murdered Marine; White House Wont Lower Flag, with the White House lit up to celebrate the Supreme Court decision allowing same-sex marriage. Trump appeared on The OReilly Factor on the night Sean Hannitys interview aired, and he tweeted several times about the points the host raised, so it seems likely he saw the episode. Its true that, in the past, some military families have been dissatisfied with the presidents response to the death of their loved one. It is completely false, however, to suggest that its traditional for the president to not even call the families of fallen service members. There is ample evidence that President Obama, President George W. Bush, and previous presidents made a habit of calling, writing, and meeting with military families who lost loved ones. It seems mostly likely that Trump was basing his assertion on reports about Obama amplified in conservative media. But to make matters worse, rather than just admitting that he didnt have all the facts, Trump pinned his inaccurate comments on top members of the military. Thats what I was told, he said. All I can do all I can do is ask my generals. iStock/Thinkstock(LONDON) -- Prince William and Duchess Kate have announced their third child is due in April 2018. The new baby will join the couple's older children, Prince George, 4, and Princess Charlotte, 2. "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April 2018," Kensington Palace said in a statement Tuesday. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April 2018. pic.twitter.com/jOzB1TJMof Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 17, 2017 William and Kate, both 35, have not yet announced where Kate will give birth, but it is expected she will use the same hospital as with her previous deliveries. Both George and Charlotte were born at the Lindo Wing at St. Marys Hospital in London.Kensington Palace announced Kate's pregnancy on Sept. 4 when she was forced to cancel a planned engagement as a result of hyperemesis gravidarum. Kate also missed George's first day of school a few days later.Kate has gradually added royal engagements back to her schedule as she feels up to it.On Monday, Kate made a surprise appearance alongside William and Prince Harry at a children's charity event. Kate, sporting a new hair style, danced with Paddington Bear on the platform of Paddington Station in London."Her condition is improved, but the duchess does continue to be affected by hyperemesis gravidarum," a royal aide told ABC News Monday. "She is making decisions day to day but is keen to do as much as she can."Kate also attended a Buckingham Palace reception on Oct. 10 to mark World Mental Health Day.William and Kate were scheduled to go on a royal tour of Scandinavia later this fall. Kensington Palace announced today that instead William will visit Finland alone in November, a trip he will make at the request of the U.K.'s Foreign and Commonwealth Office.Kate will join William on an official visit to Norway and Sweden in early 2018, according to Kensington Palace.Earlier this year, William and Kate visited Poland and Germany with their children as part of a "Brexit" charm offensive as the U.K. negotiates its withdrawal from the European Union.Copyright 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. NAFTA talks. Photo: Brett Gundlock/Boreal Collective/Bloomberg via Getty Images So far, corporate Republicans deal with the Donald has paid off, handsomely: For its complicity in the ascent of reactionary (white) nationalism, the business wing of the GOP has received a pliant federal bureaucracy, a looming neo-Lochner era in American jurisprudence, a booming stock market, and a Congress hell-bent on passing giant corporate tax cuts over the publics overwhelming opposition. Since taking office, Trump has stayed true to his campaigns caustic anti-globalism when doing so would hurt vulnerable minority groups. But when adherence to right-wing nationalism would afflict the powerful, the president has generally told Steve Bannon to go cuck himself. But this era of good feelings between Wall Street and the White House might be nearing its end. In late September, far-right theocrat Roy Moore beat Establishment incumbent senator Luther Strange in a Republican primary in Alabama. That outcome was heavily influenced by idiosyncratic local factors, but Bannon had campaigned for Moore, while Trump had stumped for Strange. Thus, Breitbart framed the race as a proxy war between itself and the White House. The president (reportedly) bought this narrative and proceeded to take a hard right turn. After making a preliminary deal with Democrats to provide protection for DACA recipients, the president now demands radical cuts to legal immigration as a precondition to any amnesty. After months of signing off on the payment of Obamacares subsidies to insurers, and certifying Irans compliance with the nuclear agreement, Trump now refuses to do either. In the absence of congressional action, these moves will trigger the largest delegalization of American residents in the nations history, skyrocketing premiums in the individual insurance market, and a severe diplomatic crisis with Tehran and our core European allies. Which is to say: Trump appears evermore willing to defy the warnings of experts and sow far-reaching chaos to satisfy the far-right. This fact should have corporate titans sweating in their c-suites as they read up on the sorry state of the NAFTA renegotiations: The fourth round of negotiations is nearing an end amid rising tensions after the U.S. presented proposals that could be politically unfeasible for Canada and Mexico. U.S. industry and Congress, meanwhile, are mounting a more vocal defense for preserving regional trade ties as they sense the discussions could be in trouble Naftas fate may now hang on how flexible the U.S. is about its demands heading into the fifth round of talks, scheduled for Mexico City around the first week of November. Canadas chief negotiator, Steve Verheul, told stakeholders during an earlier negotiating session that hed warned the U.S. [Chamber of Commerce] to brace for the possibility of life after Nafta, according to two officials familiar with the meeting. The Trump administrations deal-breaking demands include a sunset clause, which would automatically end the agreement in five years, unless all three parties agree to extend it. This may be the most bizarre of the White Houses demands, given that the American president has the power to initiate withdrawal from the agreement at any time, and the text of the deal is regularly renegotiated. The administrations most explosive proposal, however, may be its revisions to NAFTAs rules of origin. Currently, cars and pickup trucks imported to the U.S. from Canada or Mexico need to be constructed from at least 62.5 percent North Americanmade parts. Trump would like to increase that continent-wide percentage and specify that the autos must also be made from at least 50 percent U.S.-made inputs. This demand is antithetical to NAFTAs animating purpose, which was to promote duty-free trade across North America, while erecting a few light trade barriers against wares from other continents. It would also disrupt well-established supply chains, which is why most U.S. automakers actually oppose a provision ostensibly designed for their benefit. Most ironically, the change might even increase the foreign share of the American car parts market, as buyers gravitate toward suppliers in Europe and Japan. Finally, the Trump administration is pushing to scale back the investor-state dispute settlement process, which allow tribunals of (predominately business-friendly) attorneys to arbitrate disputes between nations and corporations. In this instance, the White House has a strong case on its side. But the proposal would nonetheless represent a radical change to the status quo, one that the Mexican and Canadian governments have little interest in making. Even if Justin Trudeau or Enrique Pena Nieto would prefer to acquiesce to Americas bullying than let the agreement fall apart, it would likely be politically untenable for them to do so. Trump is widely reviled in both countries, and has repeatedly, publicly, framed his vision for trade in zero sum terms which is to say, he has suggested that Americas gain in NAFTA negotiations will be Mexico and Canadas loss. Democratically elected leaders do not, typically, champion plans to disadvantage their own citizens at the behest of an unpopular foreign leader. All signs suggest Mexico and Canada arent playing ball. Which means, for NAFTA to be salvaged, Trump will need to back down. But the president will also have the option of giving six-months notice of his intention to withdraw from a deal. And recently, hes displayed a marked fondness for such long-fused time bombs. Mexico insists that it will not negotiate during that six-month window. Members of Congress and business groups are already putting together political and legal strategies for salvaging the deal during that countdown period. But even if the agreement is ultimately saved, the U.S. announcing its intention to withdraw could hammer markets and cause some Wall Street plutocrats to fear that seeking power by riding the back of a tiger might come with downsides. Kyambogo last week became the latest University to formally receive some of the buildings constructed with funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB). The construction works, which started 18 months ago, were done under the Support to Higher Education, Science and Technology (HEST) project. HEST project aims at building Ugandas human capital skills development capacity, particularly in education, science and technology, to respond to labour market demands and spur productivity nationally. Speaking at the technical handover of four of the completed structures last week, Kyambogo University vice chancellor Prof Eli Katunguka-Rwakishaya said the new structures are a new phase in the history of the university. Since Kyambogo was established in 2003, we have noted that there has been no major infrastructural project. We have for a long time worked in dilapidated structures but what we are witnessing today is a milestone, Katunguka said. The new central teaching facility He added that it had previously been difficult to invigilate and supervise students during examinations, due to limited space. Katunguka said the new developments would enable Kyambogo to deliver technical skills, research, knowledge and training in a conducive environment. Former education minister Jessica Alupo commissioned the HEST construction project at Kyambogo in May 2016. Kyambogo was one of the seven beneficiaries (all public universities), taking the largest portion of the AfDB grant at $25.41m (or Shs 83.853bn). The total grant of the HEST project as secured by the education ministry was $100m. The other beneficiaries were Makerere, Muni, Busitema, Makerere University Business School and Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Uganda Management Institute. Apart from construction and rehabilitation of some learning centres, Kyambogo University also used the funds to train 18 academic staff at PhD level and several administrative staff at master's level. The university also supported students (47) with undergraduate students scholarships and a further six obtained master's degrees. Kyambogo University staff, ministry staff and contractors pose outside the new central teaching facility Last week, Patel Prashant, the director of Ambitious Construction Company, handed over four of the five structures under the project, to the university management and ministry officials. These are a three-storied central library with ICT-enhanced capacity, two-storied central teaching facility, technical teacher education workshop/complex and a three-storied multi-purpose science laboratory block. Prashant said the structures had been handed over on time and the fifth structure, a four-storied engineering workshop, would be completed by the end of November 2017. The university management has been very cooperative. We shall be around for the next 12 months to handle any defects that may arise, Prashant said. The engineering workshop is planned to comprise a traffic and transportation workshop, material testing lab, water quality lab, electrical lab, modeling rooms, fluid mechanics lab, drawing rooms, telecommunication lab, meteorology lab and a computer lab. The commissioner for Higher Education at the ministry, Jolly Uzamukunda, commended AfDB for financing Ugandas first and biggest higher education project over the last three centuries. The new face of Kyambogo means an increase in teaching space and access to higher education that will contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic transformation of the country, Uzamukunda said, and urged the university management to establish a maintenance policy so that the structures are put to better use. On behalf of the students, Kyambogo guild prime minister Innocent Ocaya pledged that the guild council would start continuous sensitisation programmes to ensure that the buildings are not vandalized during strikes. We shall talk to students one-on-one and also engage them in general assemblies. These are magnificent buildings that we have to guard jealously for the good of our university, Ocaya said. This academic year 2017/18, Kyambogo admitted at least 17,813 students to various programmes while more are expected to join under long-distance learning. OTHER BUILDINGS On his part, Timothy Ssejjoba, the deputy project coordinator of HEST, said Kyambogo has progressed well despite initial redesigning of the structures a process that was time-consuming since the original designs were not good. He said procurement of equipment to occupy the structures is ongoing because majority of contracts had been awarded to various companies. We expect in the next six months to start equipping the buildings. We believe that by the next academic year 2018/19, they should be fully functional, Ssejjoba said, adding that construction at other public universities was also taking shape. The new central library building with virtual capabilities Ssejjoba explained that they would soon hand over structures at Makerere, Muni, Busitema and Mbarara University of Science and Technology, later this month. However, Gulu and Lira universities, whose construction started late, were given a six-month extension. He said the handover is scheduled for February 2018. At Makerere University Business School, construction of the faculty of Business Computing was completed last year. Meanwhile, Ssejjoba explained that there had been delays in the procurement process for the Global Distance Learning Centre building at the Uganda Management Institute. But this had been resolved and the project had finally been handed over for completion of the lecture/office block and works would last eight months. nangonzi@observer.ug It may sound cliche now, but Uganda is the youngest country in the world, with 70 per cent of her population living below the age of 35. That said, the percentage of youth in leadership positions, both in public and private sectors, leaves a lot to be desired. This is a problem Wabwire Waheirire, real names Joseph Ian Wabwire, is working to overturn. The 22-year-old founder of Youth Connect Uganda believes that for countries to develop, they must have a youth-inclusive system that caters for the views, beliefs and interests of young people. Joseph Ian Wabwire It is against this background that he, with Mooli Bukeni and Dario Giuliano, created Youth Connect Uganda. This is a social enterprise that helps start-up, creative, youth mostly artists, writers and social activists showcase their craft, interact with already established personalities for mentorship and grow their brands. I conceived the idea when I was still in secondary school after I realised my two friends, one an artist/dancer and the other a poet, lacked space to promote their craft. These were passionate young voices using poetry, dance and music to advance social causes; so, I thought of starting a platform where young people can connect to amplify their art. That is how Youth Connect Uganda was born, he told The Observer. Founded four years ago, the enterprise that utilises social media as a tool, has connected over 4,000 youth in Uganda, and because of this mileage, it earned Wabwire a nomination in the recently concluded Young Achievers awards, in the category of Social Entrepreneurship although he didnt win. Of course, this did not come easy. It has taken passion, dedication and hard work for us to have our work recognised and appreciated globally. It means a lot to us, he said. Being part of the awards made me proud. I knew that someone was watching and getting impacted. As a matter of fact, I dont know who nominated us. The organisers emailed me and said that out of 5,000 nominees, they had zeroed on just five and we were one of them, he added. Consequently, they have grown their credibility to attract partnerships from several organisations such as Design Hub Kampala which gave them free space for their events, NBS Television, Oxfam, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Uganda and South Sudan and Uganda Parliamentary Youth Forum, among others. BREAKING THE STATUS QUO Wabwire points out, however, that Youth Connect Uganda shouldnt be confused to be an affiliate of Youth Connekt Africa. He says it is a completely different brand. As he calls it, a non-conformist platform that encourages youth to grow out of their shell, set their own standards and in his own words defy the status quo. When we met at the Uganda museum on Tuesday morning, it was his hair that stood out most. It is the kind that you would expect on a ghetto youths head. He donned a dark-blue stripped shirt, maroon tie, navy blue jacket, skinny trousers and shoes without socks not the image of a corporate business owner. But through his deep-set staring eyes hidden under a pair of glasses, I could tell that he didnt care. What people think of you does not define who you are. What is important is what I do and the impact I create, not how I look or dress. And that is how Youth Connect Uganda works. We support originality, creativity and this can only come out when one is oneself, he noted. The youth, he explained, have been raised in controlled environments whose standards are pre-set by the society within which they operate. This, in his opinion, limits not only their thinking but also their creativity, innovativeness and expression. Through conferences, workshops, seminars and trainings, Youth Connect Uganda brings passionate artisans, poets, photographers, musicians, writers, social activists and other creatives together with one aim making an impact on their society. SOCIAL MEDIA A GREAT BUSINESS TOOL Although Youth Connect Uganda has been around for four years, it remained unregistered for the first two. Wabwire had, however, been operating via social media, using his mobile phone. In this digital age, Wabwire argues, branding, networking and marketing have never been easier. The only important thing is the idea. The moment you have an idea, be passionate about it and push it regardless of the challenges. I branded myself on social media and used it to leverage my engagement. Up to now, we dont have a physical office. My office is on my phone and laptop which I acquired recently. Young people need to stop lamenting about the need to have air-conditioned offices with internet and computers and use the available tools to grow their brands so as to attract an audience, he argues. When Youth Connect Uganda had just started, Wabwire said, its first organised events were less attended, but because of the Facebook engagement, the events they currently organise are attended by not less than 200 people. Wabwire lashed out at the slay-queen generation that uses Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms to validate their physical appearances instead of using their thousands of likes to positively influence society. Someone posts a picture of their bodies and collects 600 likes; that is good. But if this same person posted about a product/service they were selling, at least 10 of the 600 would buy. So, we need to position ourselves well online, he counselled. Wabwire confessed to have met his business partner and co-founder, Dario Giuliano, online and they had never actually met physically. Giuliano, who often communicates with Wabwire and his Ugandan team through Skype, has been instrumental in the day-to-day activities of the company from London, where he is based. BUSINESS ACUMEN For a company that started out as a Facebook page unable for over two years to post any financial benefits, Wabwire and team have been able to drive Youth Connect Uganda to be one of the fastest-growing social enterprises in Uganda. His pride is in, among other things, the credibility, impact and change they have been able to inspire among fellow youth, to believe in the role of creative arts and social activism as the cornerstone for advancing social causes. We have been able to impact on young people by empowering them socially, economically and morally through giving them a platform to showcase, earn a living and be able to reach out to more of their colleagues, he added. Currently, Youth Connect Uganda employs five permanent staff and works with over 70 volunteers to successfully organise events. Wabwire told The Observer that every start-up needs a team that shares its vision and values for it to get through the tough times. We were not making any money in the first two years, but my team understood that as a start-up, service was more important than profits. It is this commitment that kept us going, he asserted. Wabwire further noted from experience that as much as they hoped (with co-founders) to immediately earn millions of shillings from Youth Connect, it is the reverse that happened, compelling them to inject money into it instead. I know Wabwire for being a go-getter, says Lizel Muwaya, a colleague. He treasure-hunts for opportunities and grasps them soonest. Also, he is hardworking and strategic with choosing friends. AMBASSADORIAL ROLE Currently a third-year Law student at Kampala International University (KIU), Wabwire was appointed an International Youth Ambassador by the Youth Parliament Nepal. Youth Parliament Nepal describes itself as an independent, non-partisan, non-political, non-religious and non-profit organization that boosts the voice of the youth and encourages them to actively engage in various contemporary socio-political movements. It is run by Nepalese youth aged between 16 and 40. The president of Youth Parliament Nepal, Diwakar Aryal, was quoted by Tourism Headline, a Nepalese website, as saying; Joseph (Wabwire) has been appointed as an international youth ambassador to connect the youth [in] the world for peace building, coordinating, cooperating and connecting. As he prepares to fly out to the home of the Everest, the worlds tallest mountain, Wabwire, who downplayed any financial benefits from the appointment, told The Observer that his three-year tenure will seek to influence international policy, create opportunities for African youth and bridge the gap between Nepal and Africa. I got this appointment largely because of my work on social media with Youth Connect. It is an honour for me. It gives me the opportunity to impact on youth on a global scale and I am ready for the challenge, he said. MISMATCH OR GENERATIONAL GAP? As a youth leader, The Observer sought Wabwires opinion on why, despite constituting the majority of the Ugandas population, the youth are still marginal in leadership positions, both in politics and business, and how they can leverage their numbers to create the change they want. Wabwire argued that Uganda is not a society that prioritises and considers the views of young people as those that can propel the country to greater heights. We live in a society that is so much taken up by the old guard who think that because of experience or because they were born earlier than us, they enjoy a monopoly over wisdom, but it is evident that countries that have invested in their youth are far more innovative and prosperous than we are, he said. Although Wabwire acknowledged the role senior leaders and politicians play in the countrys progress, he says they are better placed on the sidelines as mentors and advisors as youths take over the day-to-day affairs of the country. We would have expected that over time, the old guard had mentored a new breed of young leaders to take over from them. But if a 70-year-old president hasnt, after 35 years, groomed a capable and potential substitute, it is a sign of total failure on his part, Wabwire argued. He suggested that the youth be included in policy formulation and implementation so that when eventually the old guard bows out, the new generation has accumulated enough capacity to take over and successfully carry the society forward. WHO IS WABWIRE? Born on April 5, 1995 in Masafu, Busia district, Wabwire attended Iganga Boarding primary school, Kiira College Butiki for O-level, before joining St Johns Secondary School, Mukono for his A-level. He is the second born in a family of 15 children. Growing up, he always showed signs of innovation and nonconformity. His parents, Denis Sande and Sonia Nabwire, did a lot to keep him in school as Wabwire never believed that education was a prerequisite for success in life, but merely a formality. Even as a Law student, he still holds that someones values and conviction to their beliefs are far more important than an education. I used to escape from school to go dancing. My colleagues always judged me because of my grades, my hair and dress code, but Im disproving them. I had to break the chains and disrupt the status quo to get here, and I encourage everyone out there to strive to be themselves, always. You will make it, he advised his peers. Nicholas Opolot, Wabwires old boy at Kiira College Butiki and third-year Law student at Uganda Christian University, says Wabwire has obviously risen above anyones expectations and completely reinvented himself. He is not the Wabwire we used to know. His work speaks for itself. His role models reflect the rebel in him people like Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook), Steve Jobs (Apple Inc) and Hon Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, aka Bobi Wine, formerly a ghetto hustler but now one of the more influential people in Uganda. They have all beaten the odds, ridicule and judgement to create some of the best innovations in the modern era even without university degrees for some. In future, Wabwire would like to be remembered as a man who stood for his values, a social progressive who put service above self and did all the good he could without hope for a reward. He advises fellow youth to endeavour to learn from challenges of the past, to have self-belief and faith in their ideas and not be afraid to do things differently. As the 1997 Apple Think Different commercial concluded, the people who think they are crazy enough to change the world are the ones who do. alex.taremwa@yahoo.co.uk Prospecting recruits who want to join the army, the Uganda People's Defence Forces are reportedly making attempts to bribe their way so as to beat and compromise the recruitment exercise. Col. James Nambale, the in-charge of the recruitment exercise which started at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala yesterday, said that they have intercepted a number of people who were offering bribes to officers so that they can be let into the army without facing the regular recruitment process. He said that he personally resisted bribes ranging between Shs 100,000 to Shs 500,000 offered openly by several potential recruits. Others, according to Nambale, were offering bribes in form of airtime and transport, expecting favouritism in return during the recruitment. Some of the prospective recruits being screened at Kololo "There are those who even have corrupted their ways to come here. I have been called by 26 people. There are those who have [offered] me airtime, there are those who have asked me to get something 'small' for transport. Ive been well facilitated with my team here. I ate well and slept in Sheraton [hotel] last night. Please, you're desperate for a job and you want to give Col Nambale Shs 500, 000, Shs 200,000, Shs 100,000. Youre killing the army, youre killing the country, youre not coming to do anything. I cant take that money. If you can give me Shs 100,000, Shs 500,000 to recruit you because possibly youre my brother, one will give me Shs 1 billion and I kill my president. So here it is about commitment to your country, it is about guarding others while they sleep", said Col Nambale. Col Nambale advised the prospective recruits to identify army officers they have given bribes to help them go through the recruitment process saying that these will not have much to do for them. "If you gave anybody money please raise your hand now and we get your money from them. Weve always had incidents where people say they took our money. You may be my brother, you may be my son, you may be my relative. We may have gone to school together with you but when you come here and I favour you because of that [yet] you cant meet the criteria, am telling you; you will not be near me when youre facing music on the front line.Even if youre my brother, please come here and meet the criteria of joining the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces", Nambale added. Nambale further cautioned the prospective recruits against looking at joining the army as a means of getting employment saying that the army is about commitment to the good of the country. "There are problems when you people join the army because youre desperate for a jobs. Some of you are looking at becoming officers like I. I have soldiered on for more than have of my life to reach where I am.There are those of who are you joining just to look for jobs. Am telling you, the money youre looking for is not in the army, you can go to parliament, you will get the money but inhere it is about working, its about commitment to your country..." Col James Nambale addressing the aspiring recruits As the screening of the recruits went on, URN observed a number of parents and guardians both ordinary people and army officers following up on their children at the different stages of screening in a bid to beat the process. At some point, the recruitment officers were seen struggling to push aside these parents in vain. Maj. Edward Birungi, the spokesperson of UPDF Lands Forces confirmed this difficulty. "Parents who are here are also really interested in their children joining the army. They are close to them and are making it very difficult, we say give us space but they really dont want to give us space. So they are making the exercise really difficult. However in liaison with the military police which is on the ground, were on the ground. We expect the exercise to get on well", Birungi said. URN also observed a UPDF officer who was not part of the official recruitment team helping some of the parents and some army officers sneak people who were disqualified at the physical checkup stage into the qualified team. Both teams were seated close to each other. This UPDF officer was later seen congratulating parents, possibly for a mission accomplished. However, UPDF spokesperson Brig. Richard Karemire noted that there are safeguards against infiltration and that persons who cheated at the entry point would still be eliminated. He said that they do not expect any traits of corruption in the process. "Weve embedded in the teams other officers from other arms that support the process. We have our guys from the intelligence office, weve political commissars, so it is really an all round team which is doing a good job so far. We dont expect any traits of corruption, for us in UPDF we exercise zero tolerance to corruption", Karemire said. Asked whether they have an auditing system to look at the work done by the recruitment officers, Karemire said that they have an inbuilt mechanism to access whatever goes on everyday. The nationwide recruitment exercise looks at recruiting 4,000 soldiers of whom 3,000 will be regular and 1,000 will be professional to serve the different professional arms in the army. The exercise will end on October 29, in 116 districts of Uganda. Kampala district was given only 600 slots in the recruitment exercise. However, Deborah Mbabazi the Kampala Resident City Commissioner (RCC) says that less than 100 regular prospective recruits out of thousands that converged at Kololo were from the five divisions of Kampala. The regular prospective recruits are required to have a minimum qualification of the O'level (UCE) while the prospective professional recruits are required to have a minimum qualification of the A'level (UACE) obtained in the last three years. These should also have a bias in science subjects. The recruits are further required to be citizens, present a medical examination report, national identity cards, local council recommendation letter, and original copies of their academic papers, three passport size photos among others before being taken through the other physical and medical tests by the recruitment team. They are also supposed to be single with no children. The UPDF recruitment exercise seeks to address the human resource deficit arising out of the retirement of a similar number of personnel who will be leaving the forces over the next two years. Up to 1700 of these will be retiring in November this year. Oscar Bartoli About Me Avvocato, giornalista pubblicista, collabora con molti media italiani. Risiede negli Stati Uniti dal 1994 e vive tra Washington D.C., Veracruz e Bangalore (India). Consigliere comunale per il Partito Liberale a Palazzo Vecchio (Firenze) porta ancora addosso i segni delle percosse che i 'compagni' comunisti di allora gli hanno dato per essere andato a parlare nelle piazze dove comandava solo il PCI. Ha lavorato per molti anni nel gruppo SMI,leader europeo nel settore metalli non ferrosi, successivamente nell'IRI come responsabile dei contatti con i media e in seguito direttore IRI USA. Ha insegnato per dieci anni alla scuola di giornalismo della Luiss e per due anni alla Catholic University di Washington DC. Tiene un corso sulla comunicazione nel Master di Relazioni Internazionali dello IULM di Milano. Rotariano da decenni ha contribuito a creare due Club a Roma, e' stato presidente del Cassia Romana ed attualmente fa parte del Washington Rotary Club. Da giovane, per pagarsi gli studi ma, soprattutto, perche' gli piaceva, ha lavorato come chitarrista - cantante suonando nelle case del popolo, circoli cattolici, night clubs, radio e televisione. Da non perdere - "Lei non sa chi sono io" Oscar Bartoli- Prefazione Romano Prodi- Editore Ciuffa -"E anche questa e' America", prefazione di Walter Veltroni - Luiss University Press - "Massoneria FAQ. Elogio della conoscenza (e dell'informazione)" di Oscar Bartoli e Stefano Bisi Betti Editrice - "Mezzogiorno di Fuoco: duello all'ultimo spot" di Oscar Bartoli - Editore goWare - "W.D.C (sotto traccia)" di Oscar Bartoli, Editore Luca Betti - "DC Undercover" (Scarith Books/New Academia Publishing 2013) - "Borgo Pinti, storia di una famiglia fiorentina" by Oscar Bartoli editore Mauro Bonanno Blog Archive QCG meeting held in Muscat ISLAMABAD/WASHINGTON: Representatives of Pakistan, Afghanistan, China and the US gathered in Muscat on Monday to rejuvenate the stalled Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) working to restore peace in Afghanistan. However, sources said that the summit was a symbolic gathering that was meant to set the ball rolling for the four-state forum that has been inactive for over a year now. No official statement was issued after the meeting, the sixth such session of the QCG process, which was stalled after Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mansour was killed in a drone strike in May last year. Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, US Assistant Seceratry of State Alice Wells and Afghan Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai led their respective delegations. Although bringing the Afghan government and insurgents to the negotiating table was one of the main objectives of the QCG, the Taliban had already indicated that they would not participate in the Muscat meeting. In a statement, Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah said that the quadrilateral meeting would improve Kabul and Islamabads relationship. Afghanistan-Pakistan relations will be discussed at the meeting and the results will be released, Tolo News quoted him as saying. The outlet also quoted a spokesperson for the Afghan foreign ministry as saying that Kabul expected that specific goals should be set for the fulfillment of the promises made in the past meetings and also for the peace roadmap. The resumption of four-way talks also underlines the US interest in reviving the stalled mechanism for engaging the Taliban, according to diplomatic observers in Washington. But they are quick to point out that the Talibans absence reduces the already slim chances of any breakthrough. Senior South Asian diplomats, however, insist that the talks do indicate a softening in the Trump administrations attitude towards Pakistan, which President Donald Trump accused of harbouring dangerous terrorists in his Aug 21speech. The new South Asia policy that he announced also downplayed the importance of immediate talks with Taliban, insisting instead on weakening the militants in the battlefield before resuming talks with them. By agreeing to participate in a process that aims to resume talks with the Taliban, the Trump administration is also showing that its not entirely focused on the military option, a diplomat told reporters. We were encouraged, just this week, with General Bajwas visit to Afghanistan he had very good meetings with Afghan leadership. Our leadership was engaged in those meetings as well, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen Joseph Dunford told the US Congress recently. The change in Presidents Trumps tone came a day after Pakistani security forces rescued a Canadian-American family from the clutches of their terrorist captors. After the rescue operation, the US president said that in the past, he had openly criticised Pakistan for taking tremendous advantage of our country for many years, but were starting to have a real relationship with Pakistan, and theyre starting to respect us as a nation again. Apparently, it was to encourage this change that the Trump administration decided to back Pakistans efforts to revive the four-nation talks. In Washington, the talks are being viewed as significant not because they could lead to an immediate truce with the Taliban, but rather because they provide an opportunity to Islamabad and Washington to iron out their differences over a political solution to the Afghan conflict. If You Enjoy My Articles, Please Consider Supporting My Writing By Giving A Donation Of Any Amount. Thank you! The mathematical (and other) thoughts of a (now retired) math teacher, THE Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC), operators of Atuabo Gas Processing Plant, has cautioned against engaging in a blame game in the aftermath of the unfortunate Atomic Junction gas explosion. Rather, the company wants attention to be focused on comprehensively addressing safety issues, especially root cause analysis of the entire value chain of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). Chief Executive Officers (CEO) of Ghana Gas, Dr Ben Asante, issued the caution at a press conference in reaction to LPG Truck Drivers Association, who blamed the Atomic Junction explosion on high propane level in gas from Atuabo. Ghanas LPG standard In Ghana, imported LPG is a mixture of 20% propane and 80% butane. Atuabo gas: high propane level Meanwhile, the propane level in gas from Atuabo ranges between 50% and 70% while butane constitutes the remaining, depending on the blend for the consignment. Atuabo gas within Ghana Standards Authority limit But, Dr Asante said even though gas from Atuabo Gas Processing Plant has higher pressure, it is still within the limit approved by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). 7.5 Bar vapour pressure in Atuabo gas According to him, the GSA vapour pressure limit is 9 bar higher than the 7.5 bar vapour pressure Atuabo Gas produces. Source determines vapour pressure He explained that the source of the gas determines the propane content, saying LPG from raw wet natural gas has higher propane content while LPG derived from processing of crude oil at refineries has lower propane content. Heating value According to him, propane is lighter while butane is heavier, and these determine the heating value. He explained that atmospheric heat in Ghana can increase vapour pressure of LPG by a maximum of 1 bar, but was quick to add that safety valves on gas infrastructure have been designed to automatically open to reduce the vapour pressure to the required levels. Question of odour Dr Asante said Ghana Gas hands over its gas to Quantum Terminal, which uses its odorization systems for natural gas and propane to give the gas odour. Therefore, he was confident that the assertion by the LPG Truck Drivers Association that gas from Atuabo Gas Processing Plant has no odour cannot be accurate. He was convinced that the quality of the gas from the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant is the least of the problems responsible for the recent gas explosions, saying the issues have nothing to do with the commodity. Transportation and storage facilities Transportation and storage facilities were built long before Ghana discovered oil. When asked whether transportation and storage facilities have what it takes to handle high vapour pressure that is produced at Atuabo, Dr Asante said it would be unwise for anyone to build infrastructure to handle only one specification of LPG. However, only a complete safety audit can establish whether transportation and storage facilities have what it takes to handle 7.5 bar. Enforcement of standards He emphasised attitudinal change towards safety and environment by handlers and users of LPG. He stressed the need to enforce standards across the value chain, as well as periodic safety audits, including mitigation and remedial safety measures. He commended the directives given by cabinet, saying they would go a long way to address the challenges in the system. Siting of LPG facilities Dr Asante stated that LPG facilities should be sited 200 metres away from residential areas because the risk is high. To buttress his point, he stated that even pipelines for transportation of gas buried deep underground are sited 200 metres away from residential facilities because, irrespective of safety protocols, the risk to life and property is high. 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 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. For a sprawling building in an ambitious Romanesque style on a conspicuous riverfront site, Western Penitentiary has spent most of its life in architectural obscurity. After an auspicious start, it fell quickly from prominence. Now, it may soon fall to the wrecking ball. Begun in 1879 in Woods Run along the Ohio River and partially open in 1882, it took over the property of the abandoned Western House of Refuge for juvenile delinquents. It also replaced an earlier prison in Allegheny Citys West Park, whose residents were alarmed by the close proximity. Warden Edward Wright promised to abandon the practice of solitary confinement and institute improvements in incarceration practices. The new Western Penitentiary, sometimes called Riverside Prison, boasted electric lights, running water, heating and ventilation, as well as one toilet per cell, purporting to be the first use of such features in a prison. Architect Edward M. Butz gave Western Penitentiary architectural pretentions to suit its novel amenities. The five-story structure housed 1,280 cells stacked five tiers high in two wings over a length of 1,080 feet. The wings were faced with long rows of vertical Romanesque windows. The facade was divided by five pavilions, with pitched and mansard roofs at center, midpoints and ends. At the center of the complex, the wardens house featured a picturesque agglomeration of gables and dormers at a slightly more residential scale than the rest of the building. It was really too small for the overall composition, but it had its own Queen Anne charm that persists to this day as a remarkable ruin. An early period photo makes the complex seem tasteful and almost celebratory rather than punitive. It is similar to exposition buildings from the eras French and American Worlds Fairs and similarly dramatic. (Some have suggested Butz designed Allegheny Citys Exposition Building of 1875, but the attribution is uncertain.) Located across from the industrial Brunot Island, Butzs building was actually not often seen from its best architectural angle. More significantly, it was soon figuratively overshadowed by a much more popular piece of Romanesque Revival architecture. Henry Hobson Richardsons Allegheny County Court House and Jail, completed in 1888, were nationally published and almost universally admired, gaining fresh advocates in the 20th century, such as art historian Henry Russell Hitchcock, who viewed them as pedigreed ancestors of Modern architecture. Western Penitentiary, meanwhile, only earned notoriety. Henry Clay Fricks would-be assassin Alexander Berkman failed also in his attempt to tunnel to freedom in 1900. The building sustained flooding before it was completely finished. It also became a hotbed of tuberculosis. By 1910, its poor condition prompted suggestions that it be replaced. Did Butz find himself fuming at the success of Richardson, the Boston-based interloper? Probably not. He was a prolific architect, but also a pragmatic one. Born in Allegheny City in 1850, he entered into the profession as an apprentice at age 18. He frequently partnered with engineers and never shied from technical jobs. He co-founded and for several years managed the Columbia Iron and Steel Company with its Pittsburgh office and Uniontown Mill. One of his most widely published achievements was collaboration on design and marketing of a home furnace. Still, his portfolio of building designs is lengthy. In Allegheny City it includes Reinemans Hotel, the C.C. Wattley & Co. Furnishing Store, and the First Bank Building, and in Pittsburgh, the Seventh United Presbyterian Church in Lawrenceville and the Seventh Avenue Hotel, Downtown. The difficulty is that among his many recorded Allegheny City and Pittsburgh works, very few survive. A house on Lowrie Street in Troy Hill for the Reineman family is a handsome period work of gracious proportions and Second Empire details, while a similar work on Allegheny Street is altered almost beyond recognition. The real gem is 948-950 Beech Street, across from the later Calvary United Methodist Church. Butz built this double house in 1880 as his own residence. Though he sold it shortly after, the eccentric and richly ornamented building seems very much like a calling card. It has the mansard roof of certain high-end Victorian architecture, but the Dutch-influenced gables and oddly placed pinnacles amid the free mixture of eclectic ornament are the architects own. Even in an era of odd mixtures and unconventional architecture, this house is particularly singular. Other Butz buildings require travel outside of Pittsburgh. His Clarion County Courthouse is a sober four-story brick building with a clock tower, while his Fayette County Court House in Uniontown is a slightly scaled down tribute to Richardsons Pittsburgh buildings, right down to the carefully reproduced Bridge of Sighs. There were no apparent hard feelings toward the Boston architect, though Butz still couldnt quite achieve Richardsons harmonious and proportioned composition. Butz might have been more disappointed with the fate of the roofs on Western Penitentiary, which were removed without comment following yet another riot and fire in 1953. The prison closed temporarily in 2005, only to reopen in 2007. But as of June 2017, it has closed for the last time. The property has been transferred to the county real estate department for redevelopment. County Executive Rich Fitzgerald has announced no plan, so the buildings fate is uncertain. No recent riverside architecture in Pittsburgh even comes close to the evocative drama of Butzs old Romanesque pile. Even in its altered and dilapidated state, it deserves a revitalization and return to prominence. QUEENSBURY The Hadley man who faces terrorism charges for allegedly sending an inactive hand grenade to a Warren County judge is seeking to use a so-called insanity defense against the charges. Joseph A. Schuttas defense lawyer recently filed paperwork in Warren County Court indicating she plans a defense of not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect. Warren County Public Defender Marcy Flores wrote that her client lacks the substantial capacity to know or appreciate either the nature and consequences of such conduct or that such conduct was wrong. Flores did not specify which mental illness Schutta supposedly suffers from, which prompted Warren County prosecutors to file papers seeking more specific information as to the alleged disorder from which Schutta suffers. Should the defense be successful, and if Schutta is found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect, he would be confined in a secure mental institution indefinitely, pending a determination he is no longer mentally ill or dangerous. Schutta, 48, has pleaded not guilty to a three-count felony indictment that includes counts of crime of terrorism, placing a false bomb or hazardous substance and making a terroristic threat in connection with a package addressed to Warren County Judge John Hall that was found in a mailbox in front of the Warren County Municipal Center on July 27. A U.S. Postal Service worker who emptied the box became suspicious of it, as it had no postage and had a return address of former Warren County District Attorney Kate Hogan. It was x-rayed and found to contain a grenade, prompting evacuation of the Municipal Center. State Police bomb disposal experts determined it was an inactive grenade. Police said Schutta did not offer any motive for the threat, and court records show he told officers he was set up. But Hall had sentenced Schutta to two years in Warren County Jail in 2005 after he pleaded guilty to multiple felony and misdemeanor charges for threatening another person and illegally possessing a semiautomatic handgun that had its serial number filed off. Hall has recused himself from the pending case against Schutta, and acting county Judge Jeffrey Wait, who is a Saratoga Springs city judge, is presiding over it. Schutta is due in court Thursday for argument of pre-trial motions that includes an effort by the Warren County District Attorneys Office to get a court order for a handwriting sample from him. The package that contained the grenade was accompanied by a number of writings, which police recognized as belonging to Schutta in light of past unusual correspondence he had had with sheriffs officers. The writings with the grenade included a list of 10 people from the Lake Luzerne area, Staten Island and Toms River, New Jersey, who he said the police should investigate, calling them scumbags in the letter. The letter, a copy of which was filed in Warren County Court, included numerous threats to kill police, and also included a number of other unusual items. We dont forgive. We dont forget. We warned you, the letter reads. We asked for your help. You played the mafia. Now you die. Schutta has been held in Warren County Jail for lack of bail since his arrest. He faces up to 15 years in state prison on the weightiest charge, terrorism. BALLSTON SPA A Vermont man who was arrested with a large quantity of heroin on the Northway last fall has been sentenced to 9.5 years in state prison. Martin J. Nichols, 42, of Rutland, Vermont, pleaded guilty in August to felony criminal possession of a controlled substance for an arrest last Nov. 21 on the Northway in Malta. He was stopped for a traffic violation, and when police smelled marijuana in the vehicle, state troopers attempted to search Nichols, officials said. He tossed a bag of heroin to the ground and began stomping it, causing the bag to burst and contents to spill. Authorities still recovered 27 grams of the drug, as well as an illegal billy club. Saratoga County Judge James Murphy imposed a 9.5-year sentence, to be followed by an unspecified number of years on parole. Nichols had three prior felony convictions in New York for drug or weapons-related cases in Rensselaer County before the recent case. GLENS FALLS The Glens Falls Foundation is reaching out to the community to help raise $100,000 to support weekend backpack programs that feed 1,000 needy children in Warren, Washington and northern Saratoga counties. I was astonished to find that there were 1,000 children who are challenged to find enough food to eat on the weekends, said Donna Perkett, chairwoman of the foundations distribution committee. We are going to go out and challenge the community to help their neighbors. The foundation has donated $50,000 and is seeking community donations for the other $50,000. The program is called Good-To-Go. Perkett, who said the foundation has done charitable giving in the past, said the group surveyed every school in its coverage area and found that, while all schools provide some kind of services to needy families on the weekend, there are differences among the way the programs are run. We found that there are three ways the schools get the food, said Perkett, who noted that the backpacks are assembled and distributed at each school. Some use the Open Door Missions program, some work through the Regional Food Bank (of Northeastern New York), or through a parent-teacher organization or a community group. The money raised will be distributed proportionally among the Open Door, Regional Food Bank and individual school-based programs. Most of the programs fill backpacks with enough food to help the entire family, rather than just the student. Perkett said the appeal will run as long as needed to raise the funds. We hope people will make it part of their holiday giving, she said. In the longer term, Perkett said, the foundation hopes to help those providing the food to offer better nutritional choices, share ideas and find ways to buy more food for the amount of money the groups have. We look for opportunities in the community where we can make an impact, she said. Donations can be made by check to The Glens Falls Foundation, 2 Progress Blvd. Queensbury, NY 12804 or use the Donate Now button at www.glensfallsfoundation.org. QUEENSBURY Although he never said the word Democrat, town Councilman Tony Metivier threw his support behind that party last night. He questioned the motives of Councilman Brian Clements and supervisor candidate Rachel Seeber, both Republicans, and defended Supervisor John Strough, a Democrat. It is a group trying to get John out of office that is creating all the turmoil in this town, Metivier said. Think about that for a minute. Metivier is a Republican. But he said he was sickened to read in The Post-Star emails exchanged by other Republicans on the Town Board. In those emails, Councilman Doug Irish planned a scheme in which Hal Bain would continue to run for office but then resign as soon as he won. The Republicans would then appoint someone they preferred for the Ward 1 seat. The scheme was concocted after Bain privately told Republicans this summer that he did not want to continue to run for office. It is embarrassing to live in this town right now and be affiliated with members of this Town Board that continue to behave the way they do, Metivier said. While Irish is not running for re-election, Metivier said voters should think hard before voting for supervisor candidate Rachel Seeber and Councilman Brian Clements. Both continue to support Irish, Metivier noted. Why does Brian Clements continue to support Dougs antics? Metivier asked, noting that Irish also hasnt resigned from the board despite moving to North Carolina. Wouldnt you distance yourself from someone like that? Yet you support it? Clements has worked with Irish to try to get the board to approve video-conferencing so that Irish can participate in board meetings from North Carolina. Metivier also criticized Seeber for working with Irish. She used Facebook to broadcast live two meetings so that Irish could watch them. Why does Rachel Seeber continue to support Dougs antics? Metivier said. What is her motivation? He also specifically asked why Seeber carried petitions for Irishs re-election, when she knew he was going to drop out of the race and move to North Carolina. In addition, he asked whether she would continue with the towns current law firm or find one that truly represents the town. (The senior partner of the towns law firm, John Aspland, was involved in the discussion on running Hal Bain as a fake candidate.) On Tuesday, Seeber weighed in on those questions. As a member of the Republican Committee for many years, Mr. Metivier knows better than to ask the question regarding petitions. Every committee member of the Republican committee is required to carry the endorsed candidates petitions. He knows this, she said, adding that Irish does not report to her. The decision on whether or not Doug Irish should resign is his to make, she said. She also criticized Metivier for making his statement. After listening to Mr. Metivier complain last night about the state of the board he sits on, I understand better why there needs to be new leadership. Mr. Metivier used his valuable time to make a political attack when he should be addressing town business. Supervisor Strough allowed it to happen. Members of the public were not provided an opportunity to respond, she said. Metivier spoke at the end of the meeting, after the final privilege of the floor session. In addition to his questions of Seeber and Clements, Metivier also suggested that if Irish would scheme in the Bain election, he might be scheming in Seebers campaign as well. What is the underlying reason why Doug Irish and Brian Clements want Rachel Seeber in office so badly that they have started acting the way they are? Metivier asked. Is it because they hate (Supervisor) John Strough so much that they just want him out, or is there another hidden agenda in their whole grand scheme and, if thats the case, what is that agenda? Others also criticized the Republicans for the Bain scheme. Anybody who votes for Hal (Bain) ... that is an injustice to the Republican Party, said resident George Winters. Politics is dirty. This is filthy. SCHUYLERVILLE The upstate New York village where British forces laid down their arms after the Battles of Saratoga commemorated the surrender's 240th anniversary. Officials with the village of Schuylerville and the surrounding town of Saratoga held their annual Surrender Day ceremony Tuesday morning. The public event was held in Fort Hardy Park along the upper Hudson River's west bank. It was at that spot on Oct. 17, 1777, that British Gen. John Burgoyne's redcoats and Germany mercenaries surrendered their muskets and other armaments to the victorious Americans. The surrender came 10 days after American forces defeated Burgoyne's army in the second of two battles fought nearby. Tuesday's event included British and American re-enactors, cannon salutes, music and "13 toasts" to the American victory at Saratoga. MOREAU Jeanne Hentschel was on a mission Friday afternoon: spend her husbands money and buy the perfect couch for the porch of their new cabin in Johnsburg. She plopped onto a couple of different sofas, snuggling into them to find the right fit, until she found the off-white, floral swivel chair for $85. Im getting it! Hentschel said with a smile as she headed to the checkout line with a price tag tucked under her arm. And with the beeps of the cash register, Hentschel simultaneously contributed to another mission: the Habitat for Humanity mission. Habitat for Humanity builds and renovates houses to provide decent, safe and affordable homes for people living in inadequate housing. The new Southern Adirondack ReStore of Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties, the first of its kind in the three counties, is selling new and used donated home furnishings to raise money for its work. Washers and dryers, couches and carpets, clocks and credenzas can be found in the 7,000-square-foot store that opened two weeks ago at 1373 state Route 9. From 75 to 90 percent of each purchase is put toward the building of another Habitat house, said Charlie Burd, the stores manager. An average Habitat house costs about $100,000 to build, according to Burd, and he hopes to have nearly four homes financed by the store within a couple of years. From the looks of the foot traffic Friday afternoon, the store is settling into the community well. More than 20 people were either inside or outside the store, pointing at items or filling their arms up with goods. One woman left with an old-fashioned bread box; another with some knick-knacks and a pumpkin. Im so delighted theyre in the community, said shopper Rosalie Brown of Queensbury. Brown, a local pastor, described hardships she has seen in the community and said shes optimistic the shop will be a success. I hope everyone gets behind this place! she said. Rilla Schulte, a member of the Habitat for Humanity board of directors for Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties, said she was overwhelmed with excitement from the areas response as well as the donations the store has received. Weve had some really great pieces come in, Schulte said. Those pieces include an antique rocking chair and a set of four Thomasville Hobnail Vienna Tapestry Club Chairs for $150 each that came straight out of a Regatta View home overlooking Saratoga Lake. The store serves as an outlet where people can donate furniture rather than hauling it to the dump and a site where Habitat for Humanity can educate those who come in. But Burd particularly likes the different stories behind each piece of furniture. The things in here arent random objects blood, sweat and tears have come from some of these pieces, Burd said. Youre buying someone elses history, and by doing so, youre contributing to others. Its really beautiful. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Best Travel Apps For 2022 Finding Peace of Mind: Discover These Five Places in Europe to Unwind Garmin International, a unit of Garmin Ltd., and Elliott Aviation, have been working for almost a decade to provide and install new flight decks for aircrafts. Monday, during a news conference at Elliott Aviation in Moline, both celebrated the delivery of Garmin's 500th G1000 integrated flight deck upgrade for King Air aircraft. Starting in 2008, the G1000 has modernized the King Air cockpit by providing operators with enhanced operational benefits and increased aircraft utility, while also offering significant weight savings and a lower cost of operation, according to a press release. Earlier this year, Garmin began deliveries of the G1000 NXi for King Air aircraft, which carries on the lineage of the renowned G1000 integrated flight deck. Of those 500 new upgrades, Elliott, based in Moline, has done more than 300 in a job that takes about 1,000 manhours per aircraft. As one of the most successful avionics retrofits in this class of aircraft, we have seen G1000 installations in King Air aircraft of varying backgrounds from fleet workhorses to individual operators, said Carl Wolf, Garmin vice president of aviation sales and marketing. We would like to express our gratitude to not only our customers, but our talented and trusted dealer network who have helped us to achieve such a tremendous milestone. The milestone G1000 was installed by Elliott Aviation in Moline, in a King Air B200 operated by Keewatin Air, a long-time Garmin customer. Keewatin Air provides medevac and air ambulance services in remote areas of the rugged Canadian Arctic. This milestone upgrade marks Keewatin Airs 9th G1000 integrated flight deck upgrade within their fleet of King Air aircraft, with intentions to add more in the future. This is really a big deal for Elliott Aviation, a tremendous milestone, said Wynn Elliott, chairman and CEO of Elliott Aviation. He said it is a great partnership between his company and Garmin. This comes 10 years after Garmin announced its initial retrofit program for the King Air, which has grown to include the King Air C90A/B, 200, B200, 300 and 350 series aircraft. Since its introduction, the G1000 integrated flight deck has revolutionized the King Air cockpit by incorporating key benefits, such as Synthetic Vision Technology, Electronic Stability and Protection, geo-referenced approach charts and datalink weather. For the past eight years, the Garmin G1000 retrofit program for King Air aircraft has played a major role in the success of Elliott Aviation. This program shines above all others because it replaces the entire avionics suite - not just parts of the system - and it literally zero-times the aircraft avionics with the latest technology and best-in-class Garmin customer support, said Mark Wilken, Elliott Aviation vice president of avionics programs and operational logistics. Andrew Evans, director of marketing for Elliott, said the company, which began in the Quad-Cities in 1936, replaces all outdated cockpit equipment with the G1000, including replacing the autopilot. He said the process of installing them takes about two weeks per plane. Dave Brown, integrated cockpit manager for Garmin, said the retrofits cost between $350,000 to $400,000. That equipment is 30 or more years old in electronics, he said. We take it all out and replace it with the new integrated program. A Massachusetts man faces charges of attempted murder and aggravated discharge of a firearm after he ran from police during a traffic stop and fired shots at a squad car on Interstate 80 near Atkinson, Illinois. Shaun Nicholas Taylor, 36, of East Falmouth, was being held in the Henry County Jail on a $2 million bond Monday afternoon. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 23, according to court records. According to a news release from the Illinois State Police: Around 9:30 p.m. Sunday, an Illinois State Police Trooper stopped a red SUV for a traffic offense. During the stop Taylor fled the scene. Troopers and Henry County Sheriff's deputies responded to the Atkinson area and located the SUV, which was abandoned. A trooper's squad car was shot at multiple times. Taylor then reportedly fled the area. A perimeter was established and Henry County Emergency Response Team and Illinois State Police Special Weapons and Tactics responded to the area and began searching for Taylor. An ISP Air Operations plane was dispatched with FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) to help with the search. At approximately 5:15 am Taylor approached an ISP Trooper at the Command Post and turned himself in. Davenport police have released the name of the robbery victim who was beaten by two teens whom authorities say were trying to steal the man's bicycle. Two 13-year-old Davenport boys have been charged in connection with the Oct. 12 beating and robbery of Lester Norton, 47. The beating left Norton on life support, police said. Doryan Phynell Jackson, of 1417 Warren St., and Christopher M. Shadrick, of 710 E. 10th St., Apt. 1, each are charged with one count of first-degree robbery and willful injury causing serious injury. Both of the charges are forcible felonies under Iowa law. The names of juveniles aged 10 or older who commit forcible felonies are public record under Iowa law. The two teens are being held the Scott County Juvenile Detention Center, Davenport. First-degree robbery carries a prison sentence of up to 25 years, 70 percent of which, or 17 years, must be served before parole can be granted. Willful injury is a Class C felony that carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years. Charges will be upgraded if Norton dies, police said. According to the arrest affidavits filed by Davenport Police Detective Maureen Hammes, at about 11 p.m. on Thursday, Norton was walking with his bicycle on the Davenport bike path, the Duck Creek Trail Parkway, near Hickory Grove Road and Hillandale Road. Jackson and Shadrick knocked the victim over and attempted to steal his bike, according to the affidavits. When Norton attempted to stand up, the teens began hitting and kicking him. Jackson and Shadrick then stole the mans cell phone and sweatshirt, according to the affidavits. Norton was taken to Genesis Medical Center-East Rusholme Street, Davenport. Davenport police were called to the hospital at 11:30 p.m. and alerted to the assault. According to the arrest affidavits, The victim sustained life-threatening injuries which required him to be intubated and undergo brain surgery. The victim is currently on life support. The investigation is continuing. Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call the Davenport Police Department at 563-326-6125 or submit an anonymous tip to the citys mobile app, CityConnect Davenport, IA or CrimeReports by Motorola. She did not scale one of the worlds tallest mountains or reach one of Colorados 14,000-foot peaks, but Amy Hess of Aledo, Illinois, celebrated a feat last month in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. At the height of Georgia Pass, just shy of 12,000 feet, the U.S. Army and Air Force veteran dropped her 50-pound pack, unzipped a side pocket and pulled out a folded American flag. Although snowfall limited their visibility, Hess comrades, also former service members, roared when they saw her unfurl it in the wind. Nobody knew I had the flag in my backpack the entire time, she recalled during an interview in her familys living room. I cant describe the euphoria. I mean, I think I still feel it. The moment marked the pinnacle of Hess backpacking excursion on the Colorado Trail, organized by No Barriers USA, a nonprofit organization based in Fort Collins, Colorado. The single mother of three joined 11 other disabled veterans, along with four experienced mountaineering guides, on the all-expenses-paid journey. Hess, who served 17 years in the U.S. Army and five years in the Air Force, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, and orthopedic issues. In 2012, she was medically discharged from the military. Following her retirement in 2012, Hess launched her own nonprofit organization called Adonai Community Support Services, which provides assistance to veterans in her community. Adonai means Lord in Hebrew. Serious commitment Hess' job led to her involvement with No Barriers Warriors, a program through No Barriers USA, designed specifically for military veterans with physical and mental health issues. Aledo resident Bill Stropes, the business unit manager for Gold Star FS, an agriculture cooperative in Cambridge, Illinois, contacted Hess in early 2017 about No Barriers Warriors. CoBank, Gold Stars financial services provider based in St. Louis, partnered with No Barriers USA in hopes of sending disabled veterans from rural communities on these outdoor expeditions. On behalf of CoBank, Stropes asked Hess if she knew any qualified candidates and she pointed to herself. I knew she served overseas, but I didnt know she qualified for the program, said Stropes, who commended Hess commitment to helping other veterans in the area. She couldnt have been a better candidate for us to find. A couple of months passed before Hess, who was deployed in 2002 to Saudi Arabia, applied for a spot. I was not in the best shape, and I knew it was going to take some time to prepare for it, she said. I just decided that I was ready to make some changes. Hess received word in mid-July that she made the cut for an eight-day trip sponsored by Rise Broadband, a Colorado-based internet service provider. And that is when she turned up the heat with her training. Hess took a sabbatical from work and began walking several days a week. She hiked with a weighted backpack on rural Mercer County roads and at Black Hawk State Historic Site in Rock Island. Before long, Hess, who enjoyed hiking and camping prior to this, carried 40 pounds on 40-plus miles a week. She also incorporated yoga into her training, which provided the ultimate relief for her sore muscles and stiff joints. The long walks became therapeutic. To put it mildly, I cleaned my mental house room by room and floor by floor for miles and miles and miles, she said. And then to go the mountain and summit, that was just the best restoration I couldve asked for. Transformative quest The crew of veterans and guides spent five days in the Colorado backcountry. Hess camped with two other female veterans in a two-person tent. The crew filtered water from streams, cooked for each other and practiced yoga under yellowing aspen trees. They spotted moose and signs of bear, bobcat and elk, keeping them alert and cautious on the trail. They also battled extreme weather, including cold temperatures, strong winds, heavy rain, snow and graupel, a frozen precipitation sometimes referred to as snow pellets. The packing snow allowed them to break into at least one snowball fight during the trek, which totaled about 30 miles. While there were opportunities for conflicts to arise, Hess and the others, whose backgrounds and disabilities vary, figured out how to work together on and off the trail. There was something certainly about nature that brought us together, Hess said, noting she felt prepared for the physical challenges. My biggest concern was the altitude, but I think having trained so hard for eight weeks, my lungs were strong. After conquering their adventure in the wilderness, the group returned to Denver to complete a service project with the Anchor Center for Blind Children at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. Organizers intend for the outing to challenge and encourage veterans to reevaluate the way they approach adversity in their lives. Its not just another camping or rafting trip, said John Toth, a veteran of the U.S. Army and director of No Barriers Warriors. We want them to remember that whats within them is stronger than whats in their way. Back home, as Hess scrolled through photos from her eight-day getaway, she called the experience monumental for her life. She hopes her memories inspire other veterans to pursue similar opportunities. I made a pledge on that mountain I would do an adventure every year, she said. Hess does not yet know where her travels will take her next, but no matter where she ends up, her flag will go with her. The Putnam Museum, 1717 W. 12th St., Davenport, will open its doors free to the community for an "Adventures in Space" one-time-only experience with NASAs "Journey to Tomorrow" traveling exhibit Oct. 20-22. A free space-themed family fun night will be 5-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20. The "Journey to Tomorrow" trailer will be open 4:308:30 p.m. The event includes the Putnams grand lobby, Giant Screen Theater and parking lot exhibit. For more information, contact Brittany Glass at 563-336-7290 or at bglass@putnam.org. Visitors will be immersed in an interactive experience, including exploring NASA missions, examining a moon rock brought back by the crew of Apollo 17, discovering the mysteries of space on the giant screen and more. Museum hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Friday through Saturday and noon until 5 p.m. Sunday. The trailer will be available only from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Friday. The "Adventures in Space" weekend is sponsored by the 3M Foundation and the Iowa Space Grant Consortium. Family Fun Night is sponsored by IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union. A larger portion of Iowa's Capitol should be on lock-down now that firearms are permitted into the building, said one Quad-Cities lawmaker. Another, though, described the proposal as wholly redundant. Rep. Phyllis Thede, D-Bettendorf, intends to pressure leadership to limit access to office areas and conference rooms when the House Democratic caucus convenes on Oct. 24 for its pre-session conference. Only lawmakers and legislative staff -- issued key cards -- would have immediate access to the gun-free zones, under the proposal. "It's key that we make sure people here have a place to be safe," Thede said. Thede was a vocal critic of a sweeping gun bill that in April opened local governments to lawsuits if they bar firearms from government buildings. The bill strengthens substantially Iowa's "stand your ground" provision, which Thede argued would disproportionately endanger African-Americans. The legislation also permits Iowans with permits to carry concealed weapons into the Capitol. Such a request would probably be taken up in the rule-making process, instead of through legislation, she said. Even so, it's almost bound to face substantial criticism from many Republicans, a party that now dominates Iowa government. Enhanced security would require cash. It's almost assuredly destined to raise the ire of GOP hardliners, who detest any limitations on firearms. Lobbyists from the National Rifle Association -- which has backed bills permitting guns within the halls of government -- has repeatedly argued that it would be hypocritical for lawmakers to exempt themselves from pro-gun bills. Rep. Gary Mohr, R-Bettendorf, said additional limitations, such as those proposed by Thede, are "unnecessary." Credentials are already required for several areas, including offices for leadership, he said. There's simply no need for additional gun-free zones within the Capitol, Mohr argued. Thede counters that the secure areas now provided simply aren't good enough. "We have anywhere from 300 to 400 people in that building," she said. "Children, handicapped, vulnerable people." In January, Iowa lawmakers will join peers in at least 17 states where firearms are permitted in state capitols, according to the NRA's lobbying arm. Most states have opened statehouses to guns in the past five years, the result of a national push by the gun lobby. Some require permits, including Iowa. Others allow almost anyone to stroll into the building packing heat. Thede's call for secured offices areas follows this year's shooting of U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, R-Louisiana, and others attending a House GOP softball practice. Scalise spent three months recovering from his wounds before returning to the House in late September. The Scalise shooting was a strong reminder that elected officials can quickly become targets of the disaffected or unstable. Like most statehouses, Iowa's Capitol is often the site of protests and impassioned debate. Many detractors of the gun bill said it could rob people of their free speech rights. A heated debate quickly erodes into a potentially deadly exercise in intimidation when a firearm is present. That's why Iowa Supreme Chief Justice Mark Cady in June banned firearms from courts statewide. All it would take is one armed, aggrieved family member to quickly rob a defendant of due process. Judges, too, could also find themselves on the receiving end of threats of violence or worse. But any move to further limit guns within the Statehouse is bound to illicit allegations of hypocrisy from the gun bill's most ardent backers. Long odds, though, won't stop Thede from making her case later this month. South Dakota Public Broadcasting will host two screenings of the new PBS documentary On a Knife Edge, featuring George Dull Knife and his father, Guy Dull Knife, Jr., of Kyle. The screenings will be held at 3 and 6 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 25, at SDPBs Black Hlls Bureau, 415 Main St., Rapid City. A panel discussion will follow the first screening. The events are free, but seating is limited. Tickets are available at oake.eventbrite.com. The panel discussion, which begins at 4:30 p.m., will feature Shirley Sneve, executive director of Vision Maker Mediator, and moderator of the panel; Rebekka Herrera-Schlichting, assistant director of Vision Maker Media, Charles Abourezk, attorney, producer and activist and Guy Dull Knife, Jr., who stars in the film. Filmed over a five year period, On a Knife Edge provides an intimate journey into the world of George Dull Knife as he becomes politically active with the American Indian Movement, confronts the challenges of growing up on the Pine Ridge Reservation and wrestles with accepting leadership of his storied family from his father Guy Dull Knife, Jr., a Vietnam veteran, artist and community leader. The film was produced by Vision Maker Media, Normal Life Pictures and South Dakota Public Broadcasting. The document will premiere nationally on PBS America ReFramed at 6 and again at 10 p.m. Nov. 7 on SDPB2. RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) | Butterflies begin to invade their stomachs as they step foot on the battered floor. The smell of painted wood fills their nose and the heat of the spotlight touches their skin like a tanning bed. A geyser of adrenaline shoots through their body increasing their heart rate to an all-time high. The show is about to start and the actors and actresses cant help but feel nervous, except for one individual among them. For Staff Sgt. Joshua Montambeault, stepping in front of a crowd is a soothing experience. By day he works in food safety for the 86th Aerospace Medicine Squadron, but by night he takes center stage. Im really not somebody that likes being in crowds of people, but up on stage is my safe spot, said Montambeault. So when I go up there, its a sense of calm, its a sense of relaxation. Where other people will go get a massage or sit in a hot tub, for me thats what going up on stage is like. Montambeault was a 15-year-old Army brat stationed in Germany when he discovered his love for the art. As a jock in high school with no control over his class schedule, he was placed in a drama class. I fell in love with it, he said. I fell in love with the kind of people in theater and I fell in love with the way the theater director brought the best out of people. After the events of 9/11 Montambeault decided to join the Air Force, but his love for the stage never dissipated. He now invests hundreds of hours into theater. At one point, he was involved in four shows at once. Whether hes prepping, starring in, or auditioning for a show, the actor stays busy. I realized theater was not only fun, it was a lot of work it was a challenge, he said. That work appealed to me. For Montambeault, shedding blood, sweat, and tears provides him with great reward. That moment when you get up on stage, you get into the character, the audience is loving it and you get that initial laughter, its better than any drug, he said. For whatever amount of time Ive got them, theyre not worried about whatever it was they were worried about when they came in. They are feeling what we want them to feel. Its an escape. Not only does theater allow the people watching to escape their everyday stressors, but Montambeault benefits from it too. People who are stressed out get sick more, they get injured more and theyre much more likely to make mistakes, he said. Theater de-stresses me. While there is stress that goes with it, it is the kind of stress that makes you stronger. It makes you more passionate, it makes you more focused, and it allows me to give back to the community. Although the stage may not seem like a dangerous place, incidents can happen. During one of his shows, the actor suffered a serious injury. While I was coming out on stage, it was very dark and there was a lot of smoke from the smoke machine. While not paying attention to where I was going and being more concerned with getting out on stage, I slammed my head into a post. Then I went on and performed for the rest of the show. This wasnt the first time Montambeault took a hit to the head. In his last job on the flightline, he suffered from many head-on collisions. The human body can only take so many concussions before it gets injured, said Montambeault. The brain plasticity, which is something they talk about at the traumatic brain injury clinic, is definitely helped by performing. By learning lines, by learning new things that youve never done before, you are working your mind and that makes your brain better. Working the brain is like any other muscle and it makes it sharper, faster, more accurate. After the head injury when people would ask him questions, Montambeault had to take a few minutes to answer them. Doing what he loves most has allowed him to rejuvenate. Acting is getting me back into being able to react quickly and thoughtfully, he said. After four years at Ramstein Air Base, Montambeault is getting ready to depart. I just hope that the interest in the program stays up. I hope that new people coming in find the program and get involved in the community. You make some of the best friends you can ever have in your life because you go through a lot with them. HOT SPRINGS How to handle a total of over $22,000 in delinquent taxes on multiple Fall River County properties all owned by brothers Raymond and Clayton Massey was a question given considerable discussion at the regular meeting of the Fall River County Commissioners last week, on Tuesday, Oct. 10. The brothers, who now live in California, were represented at the commission meeting by Patti Schultz, a Realtor with Heartland Real Estate of Hot Springs. She said she had been contacted by the family to help them sell all of the properties, which include three homes in Edgemont (203 4th Ave., 101 6th Ave., 610 3rd Ave.), two homes in Hot Springs (102 S. 18th St., 338 N. 3rd St.) and one bare lot in Edgemont (101 6th Ave.). All six properties have delinquent taxes owed, dating back to 2011 and range from $125.37 for the bare lot, and $3,882.82 to $10,943.42 for the homes. Schultz described all of the properties to be in varying degrees of disrepair after being neglected, seemingly for quite some time. Schultz was before the commission to see if they would be willing to abate some of the taxes to make it easier to fix up and sell the properties, and thus put them in the hands of new property owners who would start paying the taxes and begin contributing to the well-being of the county. To help explain the situation and how the properties became delinquent, the Massey brothers submitted a letter which described both of their declining health conditions and inability to effectively meet their financial obligations over the past several years. Schultz said she became involved after being contacted by an agent in Wyoming to list the properties. Afterwards, she said she inspected the properties and was able to find someone to move into one of the homes a double-wide in Edgemont. That renter has made progress on some of the repairs but it still needs a new roof and new windows, she said. The renter is interested in possibly purchasing it, but due to the delinquent taxes, is unable to attain financing and does not have the money to pay the past due tax bill. Schultz said the other two homes in Edgemont are in even worse condition, citing the discovery of eight dead cats in the basement of one, and sewage backed up in the basement of the other. She said the latter home was probably not worth salvaging. In Hot Springs, Schultz said some work had already begun on trying to fix those two up, including taking several loads to the dump in order to clean up numerous abandoned items, both in the homes and on the lots. Despite the work that has been done, Schultz said none of the properties can be sold as-is. Director of Equalization Susie Simkins accompanied Schultz at the meeting to give her perspective of the situation. She said neither of the brothers had been in contact with her office to dispute the taxes over the past six years, but since learning of their poor condition, their assessments have been adjusted to lower their taxes moving forward from this point. But in regards to their past due taxes, from 2011 to present, she was not recommending abatement. She added, based on the applicable codified law, she wasnt sure if abatement was even an option. Simkins however was in favor of finding some other option that was agreeable to all parties in order to resolve the situation and get the properties fixed up and becoming homes for someone. Simkins said her offices purpose in coming before the commission with this matter was to help find a way to play a role in revitalizing the countys communities, similar to what the City of Hot Springs goal is as well, by getting rid of some of the old, abandoned homes, and putting them in the hands of owners who will pay the taxes. Were going to be faced with a bunch of properties like this in the future, added Commission President Joe Falkenburg. Long term, we (the county) cant keep compiling property that is an eyesore, said Simkins. Whoever foots the bill is going to have to eat it now for the payback that will come later. Commissioner Paul Nabholz was the first at the table to say he was not in favor of abating the taxes for the Massey brothers, who had not shown any interest in disputing or paying the taxes over the past several years, until now. Its not our asset to abate the taxes, Nabholz said, adding that to do so would not be fair to other tax payers in the county who do pay their taxes. Falkenburg and others on the commission expressed that getting something in the way of taxes on the property was better than getting nothing, but that the commission should stand back at this point and let it play itself out. Commissioner Joe Allen added, that regardless of their circumstances, it is the Masseys job to pay their taxes. Simkins said a policy or precedent will need to be established for circumstances like this, because she anticipates seeing more and more property issues coming up like this in the future. Nabholz said he wishes there was a simple way to resolve the issue by somehow lowering the delinquent taxes based on establishing the point in history where the property values could have been lowered based on their disrepair. Simkins said however that its not simple, and that they can only adjust them moving forward, which they had already done. County Auditor Kellie Rhoe said that legally, the county cant touch the delinquent taxes until December 2017. In the end, the commission decided to wait on any further discussion of the property until they can learn more about the legalities of abating the taxes. In the meantime, Schultz said she would continue looking for a property manager to work on finding renters and funds to continue cleaning up the properties. In other business, the commission also: Heard a report from Emergency Manager Frank Maynard that the seismic testing being conducted in southwestern Fall River County is nearing completion. The work is being done by Paragon Geophysical Services on some 46,000 acres of land, including some acreage on the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands and the former Black Hills Army Depot. Maynard said weather had played a role in some delays, but they are currently over half way done and should be completed with their tests by the end of October. Approved spending $438 on a retractable privacy wall to be placed on the north side of the jail exercise area to shield inmates from the public when they are outside. Approved a request by Sheriff Bob Evans on moving his offices to the former location of the County Health Nurse, since they had moved into the former ambulance building. Evans also provided an update on the inmate count in the jail, and said there were currently 33 in jail now. Were full, he said. During public comment, heard from Coroner Donna Behrens, who in regards to the countys buildings and space issues, said she is disappointed in how the county chooses to put band-aids on everything, and would prefer they construct a new building instead. Heard from Sheriff Bob Evans (in person) and from States Attorney Jim Sword (on speaker phone) in regards to bills the county received from Battle Mountain Humane Society and Tiffany Thovson for housing nine dogs, and a bill from San Marie Higgs for housing a horse, all of which were seized from a location in Edgemont this summer. (See story page A1). The proposed water and wastewater rate hikes, which would raise an average Rapid City households water bill by 43 percent over the next five years, passed through its first reading before the Rapid City Council Monday night with little discussion or resistance from council members. The resolution setting the new rates was approved 8-2, with Alderman John Roberts and Alderwoman Becky Drury voting in opposition. Currently, a single-family residence pays an average of $30.72 per month for city water and $24.03 for wastewater services, explained Tom Gould of HDR Engineering, the consulting firm hired by the city to study the utility and current rate structure. Those payments were calculated based on an average use of 5,600 gallons of clean water per month and 4,500 gallons of wastewater collected from such residences per month. Assuming the usage was the same in 2018, Gould said those rates would rise to $33.74 per month for city water and $25.78 for wastewater services next year, an overall rise of $4.77. By 2022, the water bill would be $46.66 and the wastewater bill would come in at $31.98. The current rates have not increased since 2012. City Operations Management Engineer Dan Coon said the rate hikes were to cover the increased operating and maintenance costs associated with the city services. The utilitys reserve funds have also fallen considerably over the past few years, Coon said, necessitating the large jump from 2017 to 2018. Weve just gotten to the point where weve depleted our reserves to uncomfortable levels, Coons said in a Journal interview on Oct. 10. In a Journal interview before Mondays meeting, Gould said the annual operating and maintenance cost was $5 million for the water utility service and $5.3 million for the wastewater utility. Those are expected to rise to $5.5 million and $5.9 million, respectively, in 2018. The water reserve fund had dropped to $2 million and the wastewater reserve fund had dropped to $159,000, Coon said Monday. With the rate hikes, the city hopes to raise the water fund to $6.6 million and the wastewater fund to $4.5 million by 2022. Explaining her opposition to the increase, Drury blamed the city for failing to raise rates since 2012, leading to a more dramatic increase now. She proposed the idea of stretching the rate hikes over a longer period of time to lessen the rise. Alderman Ritchie Nordstrom expressed disappointment that the two utility rate public open houses that HDR and the city held to inform citizens of the change and study behind it were very lightly attended. Im just disappointed that we cannot get the public interested in this, Nordstrom said. Though the resolution incorporating the new rates was formally approved on Monday, the city ordinances with the old rateswhich were amended to delete the old rates and approved on Mondaymust go through another hearing before the Legal and Finance Committee and Rapid City Council before the new rates are truly finalized. The committee meeting will be at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 1 in the council chambers within city hall, with the council meeting at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 6 in the same location. In other business Monday, the council: Confirmed the appointment of Nick Stroot as director of the citys Community Resources Department. The position has been vacant since June, when former Director Jeff Barbier and the city parted ways. Stroot has served as Pennington County's Human Resources director since 2009 and will begin his new position with the city Oct. 30. Approved an agreement to contribute $2 million from the citys Vision Fund account to help fund the construction of a new 28,400-square-foot, $7.1-million facility for Rural America Initiative. The agreement stipulates that the city money will be used only for construction work and that RAI will be reimbursed by the city once the work is completed. RAI must begin construction of the facility by Sept. 1. Once completed, the new facility will house RAIs Head Start program, a federal program that promotes the school readiness of children ages birth to 5 from low-income families who are enrolled in a federally recognized tribe. Other programs, which have been housed in various rental properties over the past few years in order to meet demand, will also be moved to the new facility. RAI has acquired the land, at 2112 South Valley Drive, and is currently completing its financing, with construction expected to begin sometime early next year. The lot is on the site of the Johnson Ranch Subdivision, which is being developed by area developer Hani Shafai. Approved a resolution to declare the citys 4.3-acre parcel at 108 E. Main St., directly east of the citys main fire station and midway between downtown and South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, as surplus and to appoint freeholders to appraise the property. The move is the first step as the city looks to transfer the property to the Rapid City Economic Development Foundation. The city acquired the property for $1.4 million in 2012. City staffers will now begin working with the foundation leadership to draft an agreement for the transfer of the property. Authorized the mayor and finance director to sign the official Community Development Block Grant contract with the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The citys Community Development Division will receive $433,236 from the federal governments CDBG program, $236 more than Barb Garcia, manager of the Community Development Division, had estimated the city would receive. Later in the meeting, the council also approved allowing Youth & Family Services to use $68,000 awarded in CDBG monies for a use different than was originally approved in May. The funds, which are awarded and managed by the citys Community Development Division, were intended for roof repairs at Youth & Family Services' 1920 North Plaza Blvd. location. The money will now go toward development projects as YFS expands its current campus at 120 E. Adams St. Authorized city staff to begin advertising for bids on the reconstruction of 38th Street from Clifton Street to Range Road. The work will include reconstruction of the roads sanitary sewers, water, storm sewers and street surface, and is estimated to cost $3.1 million. Construction is scheduled to be take place over two phases in 2018 and 2019. Approved an agreement that will bring $632,205 from the South Dakota Department of Transportation to Rapid City as it implements necessary activities identified by the citys Metropolitan Planning Organization Unified Planning Work Program. The city must match those funds with $139,207 from its own coffers, with the money going toward transportation studies, project planning and staff time from the citys Planning, Public Works and Community Resources departments. South Dakota Department of Revenue officials confirmed Monday that the ride-hailing service Lyft received a sales tax license and is coming to the state. But don't expect it in Rapid City at least not right away. The company is recruiting drivers in the Sioux Falls area, offering sign-up bonuses and up to $35 an hour. However, it has not made contact with Rapid City officials about expanding its services to West River communities. South Dakota is one of the last states in the country to get ride-hailing services. Lyft operates like a taxi but allows users to request and pay for rides using a smartphone app. Drivers for these services can work whenever they want by simply signing into an app and indicating that they are on duty. The state Department of Revenue said Monday that it considers ride-hailing to be a service, and Lyft rides will be taxed the same as a taxi fare. Rapid City spokesman Darrell Shoemaker said ride-hailing companies would be welcome in Rapid City, but in order for them to operate an ordinance would need to be amended. "It's not as simple as providing Uber or Lyft with a taxi cab license, as those ride-sharing services have not sought or wanted such licensing anywhere in the country," Shoemaker said. "We certainly do see and know the benefits for ride-sharing services for Rapid City." The next step for Rapid City would be to open discussions with Sioux Falls and state officials to iron out any details on licensing, taxation and possible ordinance changes related to ride-hailing services, Shoemaker said. Lyft did not respond to an email seeking information on possible plans for future expansion in the state. "It gives you a big-city feel when you have a company like Lyft offering its services," Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether said at a news conference Monday. President Trump has made a lot of promises on health care. Somehow, though, I don't remember him promising stadiums of cheering fans that he'd take away protections for pre-existing conditions, increase deductibles, spike premiums, eliminate basic coverage requirements and, more generally, destabilize the individual health-insurance market. But that is what he said he'd do Thursday, when he signed an executive order on health care. Those aren't the precise words he used, of course. But they are the consequences of policy bombs he wants to set off in two relatively obscure corners of the insurance market: association health plans and short-term health plans. Under current law, an association of small businesses (such as law firms) can band together and market insurance to members. These association health plans must abide by all the consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act. They are also subject to the insurance laws and rules of the state in which they're sold. But under Trump's executive order, depending on what the final regulations say, an association could exempt itself from lots of Obamacare requirements (such as essential health benefits) and choose any state to be its regulator (regardless of where its members are). Meaning if it wanted to be regulated by a state that doesn't require coverage of prescription drugs or cancer treatments, it could. This would not only rob states of their sovereignty, which Republicans have so often claimed to champion, but also create a race to the bottom. Pursuing ever-lower premiums, every association would likely incorporate in the most Wild-West-like state around, in the way that credit card companies tend to domicile in South Dakota. The administration has also left open the possibility that individuals and not just small employers could buy into these association plans, further siphoning people out of the individual markets. What about those "short-term health plans"? These sometimes serve a legitimate purpose a stopgap to tide you over for the summer until the school year starts, for instance. But after Obamacare passed, there was a proliferation of scammy "short-term" plans that weren't so short term. Some lasted 364 days! Why? "They walked and talked like traditional insurance, but as long as they were less than 12 months, they were not technically considered 'insurance,'" explains Sabrina Corlette, a research professor at Georgetown University's Health Policy Institute. As such, the plans weren't subject to Obamacare consumer protections such as essential health benefits and guaranteed issue to people with pre-existing conditions. Insurers could offer skimpy plans and cherry-pick the cheapest, most profitable enrollees. The Obama administration ultimately closed this loophole by determining that short-term plans must be shorter than three months. With his executive order, Trump seeks to re-lengthen those plans. Both of these changes, the president boasts, would give consumers more "choice," which sounds swell. But insurance markets do weird, counterintuitive things when you introduce more choice. Two main problems result. One is that, absent minimums for quality and regulatory oversight, many Americans are likely to get conned into plans that cover almost nothing. These are sometimes called min-med or "buffalo plans," because they pay out pretty much only if you're trampled by a herd of buffalo. The bigger problem is called adverse selection. That's the idea that healthy people will sort into low-cost, bare-bones plans, while relatively costly people will stay in the more generous, Obamacare-compliant plans, which can't legally turn customers away. Premiums in Obamacare plans would then spike, driving out more relatively healthy people, further driving up premiums, and so on. In the end, the whole individual market falls apart, leaving us with basically the pre-Obamacare system. Even those healthy people have no real options. The only good news is that Trump's executive order doesn't have force of law. It's a set of instructions for Cabinet members to come up with further regulations. These may turn out to be weaker than Trump has implied, especially because some elements of the order appear legally dubious. They also won't be ready in time for the upcoming 2018 open enrollment season. In the meantime, though, Trump's executive order will spook a lot of insurers, which have only just recently found their footing in the existing system. And it's also likely to confuse consumers, which could depress enrollment and destabilize markets further. Which would be pretty much on brand for this president: When you can't come up with a new system that works, just blow up the old one. Ukraine turns to Russian Supreme Court over $112 million dispute with Tatneft MOSCOW, October 17 (RAPSI) Ukraines Justice Ministry has filed a complaint with Russias Supreme Court over the countrys $112 million dispute with Tatneft oil company, according to court records. In late August, the Moscow District Commercial Court overruled a lower courts decision to cancel enforcement of the ruling issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague awarding the company $112 million in the dispute with Ukraine. The case was sent for another review by the Moscow Commercial Court. Ukraine demands to vacate this decision. Earlier, the Moscow Commercial Court stated that the company has a right to file a petition with a Russian commercial court seeking enforcement of a foreign courts ruling only if the commercial court in question has effective jurisdiction granting it right to actualize the ruling. According to the court, Tatneft did not provide evidence proving existence of other partys property on the Russian territory that can be recovered. Tatneft, based in Russias Republic of Tatarstan, claimed forcible takeover of Ukrtatnafta and seizure of its shares. In May 2008, the company took its case to a tribunal administered by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. In the summer of 2014, the tribunal ruled that Ukraine had broken the bilateral investment treaty with Russia and awarded compensation of $112 million plus interest over the Ukraine's Kremenchug oil refinery (Ukrtatnafta). Ukraines authorities have challenged the ruling, but the Court of Appeal of Paris dismissed the appeal in November 2016. In March 2017, the Russian company filed a motion with the U.S. court seeking to confirm arbitral award and enter the judgment in its favor. According to Tatneft, the amount of debt plus interest reached $144 million. Later, Tatneft filed similar motions with the High Court in London and the Moscow Commercial Court. This July, Ukraine filed a motion with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia asking to dismiss the enforcement petition of Tatneft. Russia violated rights of imprisoned Dagestan ex-mayor Amirov - ECHR MOSCOW, October 17 (RAPSI) The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) found that the rights of former mayor of Dagestan's capital Makhachkala, Said Amirov, who had received life sentence for terrorism, had been violated, the courts ruling reads on Tuesday. Amirov filed an appeal with the Court in November 2015. He claimed that medical assistance provided to him was inadequate in face of his condition, saying that his cell was not adapted to a wheelchair prisoner. ECHR held that Russian authorities violated Article 3 (Prohibition of torture) of the European Convention of Human Rights on account of the poor quality of medical treatment in the remand prison and the inappropriate conditions of the applicants detention in the penal colony. At the same time the Court held that there was no violation of the Article 3 on account of the quality of medical care received by the applicant in the penal colony. ECHR ordered Russia to pay Amirov 7,500 in damages and additional 500 in legal costs. On March 24, 2016 the Supreme Court upheld life sentence for Amirov. On August 27, 2015, the North Caucasus District Court sentenced Amirov to life in prison for terrorism. His nephew, Yusup Dzhaparov, who was a deputy mayor of Kaspiysk, was sentenced to 18 years in a high security prison and 18 months of supervised release. Six other men who had been also convicted in this case received long jail terms ranging from 10 to 22 years. They were found guilty of organizing a 2011 terrorist attack in a shopping mall in the city of Kaspiysk and killing Arsen Gadzhibekov, the director of the Investigative Committee in one of the districts of Makhachkala. Gadzhibekov at the time of his death worked on a number of high-profile criminal cases, including the 2010 twin bombings in Kizlyar, a town on the border with Chechnya, that left 10 killed and 270 injured. He was also investigating misconduct allegations against members of the Makhachkala city administration headed by Amirov, according to Investigative Committee spokesman Vladimir Markin. Moreover, in July 2014, Amirov and Dzhaparov were sentenced to 10 and 8.5 years in prison, respectively, for plotting a murder attempt on Sagid Murtazaliyev, head of the Pension Fund in Dagestan and a prominent Russian wrestler, whose plane was supposed to be shot down by a shoulder-fired surface-to-air missile. Two health insurance companies in Montana will be allowed to refile their rates to account for the Trump Administrations decision to end payments for some individual policies. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services contacted the Montana Department of Insurance and reversed a decision that said states would not be allowed to adjust their rates, according to a statement released Monday. President Donald Trump announced last week he would immediately end subsidies paid to insurance companies to offset costs for people with lower incomes who buy insurance on exchanges. In Montana, nearly 64,000 people buy health insurance on the exchange. About 25,000 benefit from the subsidies, called cost-sharing reduction payments. Average payments are $1,147. Both the Montana Health Co-op and PacificSource Health Plans are expected to raise their rates to make up for the loss of the subsidy payments, Dan Stusek, a spokesman for the department, said on Monday. Blue Cross Blue Shield, the other participant in Montana's exchange, accounted for the possibility of no subsidies when it set its 2018 rates. The companys average rate increase was 22.3 percent, while the Co-op's was 4 percent and PacificSources was 7.4 percent. Karen Early, director of operations for Montana Health Co-op, said the company will refile rates for mid-range plans at an additional increase of 24 percent. Other plans will stay at the 4 percent increase. Todd Lovshin, PacificSource's vice president and Montana regional director, told the Associated Press the company has filed for an average 11 percent rate hike for a standard "silver plan" atop the 7.4 percent increase. That hike applies to about 43 percent of PacificSource's Montana marketplace, Lovshin said. Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Matt Rosendale said he was disheartened that two companies would change their rates at the last minute. My department was advised by both companies just months ago, that with or without CSR payments, they would be able to honor the rates they provided to us and the public. Today, by their actions, they inform me that was not true, Rosendale said in a statement. These last minute adjustments will cause increases in the amount of premium many individuals will be required to pay for health insurance from those two companies. I caution consumers who have already made decisions to purchase plans to go back and re-evaluate their options before open enrollment begins. But without refiling its rates, the Montana Health Co-op said it would be forced to drop from the insurance exchange. The Co-op covers 20,000 Montanans through the exchange. "Our rates assumed the cost-sharing reduction payments would be paid," Early told Lee Newspapers last week. "This is a significant amount of money. It would be impossible for the Co-op to remain in business in Montana without raising rates." According to the AP, Lovshin said "We have been clear in rate hearings and our public presentations that our rates were assuming the present healthcare law would continue and that the (federal reductions) would continue to be paid. We have worked really hard to minimize the impact to our members." Cost-sharing reduction payments are required by law, so insurance companies must keep making them even when federal reimbursements end. The payments have been called into question since 2014, when House Republicans filed a lawsuit saying the payments were illegal. The Obama administration appealed the ruling. Nationally, payments were expected to be $9 billion in 2018. Last week, Democratic U.S. Sen Jon Tester said ending the payments undermines the system when health care costs are already too high. Republicans Sen. Steve Daines and Rep. Greg Gianforte said the move ends unconstitutional funding for a program that used taxpayer money without Congress approval. Rosendale said the new premium information will be available as soon as possible. I strongly encourage you to shop, shop, shop, he said. One man's odyssey through the world of books Dirgha Raj Prasai The Hindu glorious Festival-Tihar is also known by many names such as Dipawal in Nepal, or Bhai Tika or Laxmi Puja or as a festival of lights and Diwali in India. In this year the light day-Tihar is starting from 31th Ashoj to 4th Kartik 2074 B.S. (17th Oct. to 21 Oct. 2017.) It is a five-days festival, which comes soon after the Dashain Festival. Tihar is all about worshiping of different animals such as crow, dog, cow, and worshiping of the Hindu Goddess of Fortune or Wealth (Goddess Laxmi), and Brothers cooking great meals at home, brothers and sisters shopping for gifts, flying kites, decorating homes and streets, playing cards with friends, resting and relaxing, and finally ending the festival with an exchange of a special temporary mark on forehead. The last day of the festival is known as Tika day or popularly known as Bhai Tika ( brothersTika day). To sum up Tihar festival, Tihar is the festival when sisters wish a long life to their older and younger brothers. Tihar is a festival for brothers and sisters, but What if you are a brother without a sister or a sister without a brother. Well, you can make one by accepting someone close to you in your relatives. If nothing works, you find one among your friends and neighbors, it becomes almost as if it was real. Tihar is the most popular festival in Nepal, India and in all over world where Hindus have been living. From the waning moon in between Oct. and Nov, (Kartik), there starts the indigenous Festival Tihar-Dipawali, the light day in Nepal, India and in all over the world. We the Nepalese people have glorious history on 'Himabatkhand.' The Himabatkhand-Nepal covers the land of Brahmaputra in the east, Hindukush in the west, Kailash-Mansarovar (west-south China) in the north and the Ganga-River in the south. In the past, Nepal was bigger than what it is today. This zone is the origin of the Vedas, Upanishads, Purans and Nitishastra. The region has been irrigating by rivers originating in the Himalaya, several Saints, Sages and renowned Kings. The Bikram Sambat is an original and sign of Nepalese sovereignty where the foreigners could not attack here like India, China and Pakistan. Exactly, Nepal Sambat and Mahapuja celebrates in just the day of Govardhan Puja (body worshiping organized by Newars) have been celebrating in the time of Tihar' in Nepal. Nepal Sambat was being practiced from the mid time of Lichchhavis to time of nation creator Prithvi Narayan Shah and Ranas. However due to problems in government administration because of confusion with Tithis (dates in Nepal Sambat), Chandra Shamsher started- (1962Bs) the Date (Gate) including the existing Thithi, the oldest indigenous-'Bikram Sambat' in the country. Even in the system, Tithes were same and only dates of Bikram sambat were added. But Brikram Sambat had been existed from the beginning of the history. There are 354 days in Nepal Sambat and 365 days in Bikram Sambat. Therefore Bikram Sambat became more practical. Several historians have written regarding Nepal sambat and its origin. French scholar Syavan Levy has written that the people revolted against Tibetan king who was ruling Nepal between the 7th and 9th century AD and liberated the country. Nepal Sambat started between 879 and 889 AD. One of the Histotian Prof. Bendal has written about the rule of King Raghav Dev of the Lichhavis and started Nepal Sambat in 880 AD. Historian Balchandra Sharma agrees to this point in his history book Nepalko Aitihasik Ruprekha. According to another scholar of history Dhanbajra Bajracharya, King Raghav dev started this Sambat in honor of Pashupatinath. Italian scholar Laciano Patrek has published a Vansavali which honors King Raghavdev as Pasupati Bhattarak Sambatsar. Historian Baikuntha Prasad Lakaul has written in Nepali Samacharpatra on Kartik 30, 2058 that no others are as authentic as Gopal Bansawali. Historian Dhundi Raj Bandari wrote in Nepalko Aitihasik Biwechana writes about handwritten Bishnu Darma which mentions King Raghav dev propagating Nepal Sambat 167. This was used as national Sambat in Tibet and Bangal during the Malla reign. A fable on Shankhadhar has been talked which is hard to believe. On hearing from an astrologer, king Ananda Malla of Bhaktapur (there is no mention of King Anand Malla in hitory of Bhaktapur_ asked to bring sands from Bisnumati River. But, Shankhdhar Sakhwa asked the King's carrier to deposit the sand to him and carried another sands to King. Historian Bhuvan Lal Pradhan supported the conversion but the arguments later he wrote about gold particles found in the river. So, there is no strong argument about Shankhdhar. Historian Krishna Bahadur Udaya says traditionally and culturally king is called Narayan (God). Narayan carrying Shankha is also called Shankhadhar. Therefore Shankhadhar or Chakradhar is the Narayan or Vishnu (God). So it is convincible that Shankhadharr is nobody but King Raghav Dev. There is no proof on the existence any capitalist named Shankhadhar in Kathmandu at time of King Raghav Dev. The followers of Shankhdhar has written that south gate at Pahupatinath has a stone statue with Sankha in hand, is the statue of Shankhdhar Sakhwa. But this is not true. This is the statue of King Bhagiratha devotion of Bhagitathi Ganga for water in the earth. Such statues are found in front of 108 Shiv Temples across the River Bagmati, In front of Ganga Mata, Sundhara at Dharahara & Patan Sundhara. We can see such statue stands in front of Swarna Buddha Mandir in Patan also. So, I request that not to try to exercise in futility. The History always follows the real events, evidence, writings, and chronology. During the festival all the houses in the city and villages are decorated with lit oil lamps. Thus during the night the entire village or city looks like a sparkling diamond. This festival is celebrated in five days. The Nepali festival Tihar is also known by many names such as Dipawali or Bhai Tika or Laxmi Puja or as a festival of lights. The first day of Tihar is known as Kag Tihar, (crow's day). Crow the messenger of death is honored on the first day of Tihar. The second day is called Kukur Tihar, (dogs' day). A dog plays many roles in our society. We pray to the dog to guard our house as he guards the gate of the underworld and to divert destruction away from our homes. On this day you can see dogs running around with garlands on their neck. Tihar and Laxmi Puja (3rd day of Tihar)- One of the most important day of the festival is Laxmi Puja on which day the Goddess of wealth (Laxmi) is worshiped in every household in the entire Nepali Kingdom by means of Puja, decoration, candle lights, and oil lamps. In this 3rd day of the Tihar Festival, the entire nation becomes an illumination of lights. Pictures and icons of Laxmi Devi (Goddess) are placed and worshiped in a Puja room (or a place in a living room or a dedicated room for worshiping Gods) Puja is performed using flowers, incense, oil lamps, color-powders, bell and money (both notes and coins). Laxmi puja is not only for households but is equally done by Companies. Business-Laxmi-Puja is done exactly the same way as is done in home. Usually company's cashier performs the puja during which time the entire office including office compounds are lit with various lights including electrical, candle lights, and oil lamps and usually staffs are invited to participate in the Puja procession. 'Water is a symbol of love. Lakshmi emerging from the water explains that the right type of wealth emerges from love. Divine love is the highest wealth and is like nectar in our life. Lakshmi is depicted as seated on a lotus floating in water. Lotus is a symbol of dispassion. A droplet of water on the lotus leaf moves freely on the surface without any stickiness whatsoever. Similarly, when we are not attached to wealth and not possessive, then what emerges is the wealth that is everlasting and light like a flower. Such wealth is life-supporting, brings abundance and prosperity. Wealth should be moving like water. The purity of water is lost if it is stagnant. Similarly, the usefulness and value of wealth is only when it is shared and is moving. Lakshmi is adorned with golden ornaments and is holding a lotus flower in two hands. This represents a brighter outlook and celebrative aspect of life, a combination of abundance without any possessiveness towards the wealth. Further when wealth is used for the benefit of humanity, it doesnt bog you down, it is light like a flower. The other two hands hold symbolizing the shower of blessings and indicating that we should have patience. It is a time to honor all aspects of wealth and to illumine our life with the light of spiritual knowledge, the energy that is Mahalakshmi. Maha implies great. Mahalakshmi denotes a great wealth, a wealth that includes all the eight aspects, the spiritual wealth that takes care of our well-being in all the three worlds (Adibhautik, adidhaivik and adhyatmik). So on this occasion, we wish health, happiness and prosperity for everybody.' -(Satish Oberoi) 'During the festival all the houses in the city and villages are decorated with lit oil lamps. Thus during the night the entire village or city looks like a sparkling diamond. This festival is celebrated in five days starting from the thirteenth day of the waning moon in October. We also refer to Tihar as 'Panchak Yama' which literally means 'the five days of the underworld lord'. We also worship 'Yamaraj' in different forms in these five days. In other words this festival is meant for life and prosperity.-Google online opts. 'The eve of Laxmi Puja Day is made spectacular not only by lights but also by echoes of a special song including dancing known as Bhailo or Bhailini that's played only on Tihar and Songs : Deusi Songs (4th Day) Male members sing what is called Deusi or Deusuray in Nepali. Tihar is also the time to re-call their continued wish for a long and a happy life for their brothers. Brothers sit on a floor while sisters perform their Puja. Puja involves following a traditional ritual in which sisters circle brothers three times dripping oil on the floor from a copper pitcher. Afterwards, sisters put oil in brother's ears and hairs, and then give Tika. Also breaking of walnuts by sisters prior to giving Tika to brothers is also a common practice. After tika, flower garland is put around brother's neck. Then brothers give tika to sisters in the same fashion. Sisters also receive flower garland around their neck. Brothers give gifts such as clothes or money to sisters while sisters give a special gift. Those without a sister or brother, join relatives or friends for Tika. Sisters pray for their brother's long life to the Hindu God of Death (Yam Raj). Tihar and Flower Garland is called Malla. Tihar is probably the best festival of all due to its short holiday period yet packed with much excitement unlike other Nepali festivals! Tihar and Rani Pokharai (Pond)- Rani Pokhara in center of Kathmandu built by Pratap Malla-1649-50, is located at the center of Kathmandu. This famous pond has a small holy temple located at the center. The compound's door is locked all year around except on the day of Bhai Tika. Those who do not have sisters enter the temple to receive Tika from priests. But, due to the broken from earthquake, before two years and still this year that traditions is stopped. In the festival of Tihar, sisters prepare unique Nepali meal at home for brothers. This includes making of the famous Nepali bread known as Nepali Roti or Sel or Sel (Roti).-Google online opts on Nepalese festival Tihar. The most important day of the festival- Laxmi Puja, Tika is put on her head and a garland around her neck then she feasts with delicious food. A cow also symbolizes wealth and she is the most holy animal for Hindus. A cow also symbolizes wealth and she is the most holy animal for Hindus. Cow is holy and venerable animal for Hindus and Buddhists. Hindu and Buddhist scriptures view cow in form of a mother in all over the world especially-Nepal and India. Since the Vedic period cow's body has been accepted as the spirits of various Gods and Goddess. In many Vedic books has mentioned'Gao Biswasya Matera' or Cow is the mother in the world for human being. It is a belief that people who look upon cow with devotion and worship attain blessings and enlightenment. Such conclusions were given precedence in Shrimadbhagawat Mahapurnana (Hindu's greatest religious book) since long period Gopalas started worshipping cow. Cow has been declared Nepals national animal in Nepal for it has the supreme qualities of animals.' The cow was venerated as the mother goddess in the early Mediterranean civilizations. The cow became important in Nepal and India, first in the Vedic period, but only as a symbol of wealth. In the Mahabharata, Bhishma-a great religious personality and warrior, also observes that the cow acts as a surrogate mother by providing milk to human beings for the whole life. So the cow is regarded as the mother of the world. Hindus worship cow as Goddess Laxmi. Every year cow is worshipped during the Hindu festival of Tihar. The day of worship is known as Gai Tihare. Cow is worshipped in every household. Cows urine and dung is needed during any auspicious occasion. It is Hindu tradition to slather the floor with cows dung to make it pure. The cows dung can also kill germs; so its use is good for health as well. A cows milk is highly nutritious that its advantages are hard to explain. A famous Indian religious revolutionary A. Swami Vivekananda had said- 'The light of Deepawali is also the light of freedom from control, freedom from tyranny and freedom from all that artificially divides humanity.' Similarly an Indian religious thinker Basavanna writes--'the power of knowledge destroys ignorance; the power of light dissipates darkness; the power of truth is foe of all untruths. Several programmer's are going on not only in Nepal & India two countries from where this religion was started around 5000 years before but also in other countries like USA, Canada, Fiji, Guyana, Trinidad, Malaysia and a lot more. In India also, this is the only one festival which was celebrated all over the country from TamilNadu to Kashmir and Manipur to Gujarat. In the North India this festival is celebrated as Diwali but in South India it is celebrated as Deepawali, the festival of lights is a harbinger of joy and happiness. On this day throughout the evening the groups of boys and girls come to houses singing song (Deusi Bhailo) of praise of the goddess and dancing and calling the old story with tune of god and goddess (first day) 'Bhaili Ram' then 'Deusuri Ram' with great rejoicing and they are taken as guests and given gifts- money, various food and fruits. This day the entire place is lively through out the night. The fourth day is bit different. Today the things you worship depend on your specific cultural background. Normally most of the people perform Govardhan Puja, (ox worshipping). The ox is worshipped with Tika, garland and then a delicious meal is fed to it.-(Avigya Karki-http://thehimalayanbeacon.com/magazine/2010/11/03/ In the last day, the sister worships their brothers for their prosperous long life worshiping the 'Yamaraj (God of death). The main theme behind Bhai Tika (worshiping brothers) is the sisters praying for their brothers long life from Yama Raj, god of the underworld. Tihar starts from the thirteenth day of the waning moon in October. We also refer to Tihar as Yama Panchak which literally means the five days of the underworld lord. We also worship Yamaraj in different forms in these five days. In other words this festival is meant for life and prosperity. It is a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness and of hope over despair. That the festival is celebrated by people from diverse faiths is a significant affirmation of the great Hindus traditions in the world. Happy Dipawali-2074 B.S (2017) Email:dirgharajprasai@gmail.com BANGKOK: It seemed a simple statement: women should not die from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. Yet two years after world leaders agreed to 17 global goals at the United Nations, including the childbirth target, countries in Asia Pacific are grappling to twin the rhetoric with social, cultural and political realities. An estimated 85,000 mothers died in 2015 from childbirth in the region, home to more than half of the worlds population and some of its fastest growing economies, UN figures show, with the maternal mortality rate seen as a key way to measure improvement in a nations health. These deaths accounted for 28 percent of the global total, translating into a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 127 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the UN agency for population UNFPA, which released its latest State of the World Population Report on Tuesday. Up to 90 percent of these deaths occur in 12 countries, according to UNFPA whose officials have calculated which are likely to meet the global target of reducing its MMR to below 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Bangladesh, Laos, East Timor and Indonesia are seen as likely to meet the deadline. But Afghanistan, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Myanmar, Pakistan, India, Cambodia and the Philippines, are seen as failing to reach the target by varying degrees. Reducing maternal deaths requires political will, government foresight and access to family planning, according to campaigners. (This is) an issue thats still too often seen as medical, and strictly related to womens life. Its not, Federica Maurizio, a sexual health and reproductive rights expert at UNFPA in Bangkok, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Maternal health is one of the key indicators that really tells you how much the health system in a country is able to provide for the people. Oona Campbell, professor of epidemiology and reproductive health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said it raises wider issues of womens place in society. Do we care about women? Do we think its not a problem if the wife dies? Is this something we care about enough to deliver services that are good quality? she said. TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE? Campbell said it was not entirely accurate to chart a countrys progress using a global goal. Another way to measure progress, she suggested, was to use country level targets, such as aiming to reduce maternal deaths by at least two-thirds from 2010, and for no country to have an MMR greater than 140 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Campbell also cautioned that data is weak in many countries due to a lack of civil registration and poor cause-of-death records. This could mean calculations of Afghanistans dramatic improvement, hailed as one of the gains of foreign aid there, may be an overestimate, said Campbell. UN figures showed the maternal mortality rate had dropped to 396 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2015 from 1,600 deaths in 2002 after the US-led invasion that ousted the Taliban after the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001. But Afghanistans own data put its MMR three times higher. Mateen Shaheen, UNFPAs deputy representative in the country, said womens access to healthcare in Afghanistan remained tricky as culture dictates that women are only seen by female healthcare workers. UNFPA operates 124 clinics staffed by women and aims to nearly double that by the late 2018. Meanwhile, the maternal mortality rate has been almost flat in the past 25 years in the Philippines, a wealthier nation than Afghanistan. In 2015, there was 114 deaths for every 100,000 births with 2,700 women dying in childbirth despite an increase in skilled birth attendants and access to anti-natal care. A law was passed in 2012 insuring access to contraception, sexual education and maternal care but it has been mired in legal challenges, said Klaus Beck, UNFPA country director in the Philippines. The Philippines is the only Southeast Asian country where teenage pregnancies are not falling which Beck said could also impact maternal mortality with the risk for mothers under the age of 15 in low- and middle income countries double that for older women. The absence of a legal framework to provide access to family planning, particularly for the poorest, has always been a stumbling block for many, many years, in the disaster- and conflict-prone archipelago, said Beck. KATHMANDU, Oct 17: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has said that democracy is challenged by the alliance forged among some leftist parties. The PM said this while addressing the 'national strategic training' organized by Nepal Students Union, the sister organization of the Nepali Congress, here today, in the run-up to the House of Representatives and State Assemblies elections. He stressed that it was necessary to make the Congress victorious in the elections to safeguard democracy. "The communists are trying to establish communism by using the democratic system and fooling the people. It is necessary for all the democrats to be alert about this," he said. Stating that the country itself would be in peril if democracy is threatened, PM and Nepali Congress president, Deuba called on all the Nepali Congress people to be united to defend democracy. "Finishing off democracy means the end of the Nepali Congress," he added. Party senior leader Ram Chandra Poudel said since the Congress was a party that is standing on the foundation of the Nepal Students Union, it is the NSU's job to safeguard the party. "The Congress is in crisis and the NSU should move ahead in unison to protect it," leader Poudel reiterated. He claimed that communism which is disappeared from the world could not be implemented in Nepal. "Communists do not have any ideals, norms and values, and principles," he said, adding that nationality and democracy would be endangered if one-party authoritarianism is thrust upon the nation. Party general secretary Dr Shashank Koirala said the leftist alliance was forged to finish off democracy in Nepal. He stated that people's attraction towards the Nepali Congress was increasing as it is a party with glorious history, credible principles and dedicated cadres. Minister for Information and Communications and party central member, Mohan Bahadur Basnet spoke of the need of mobilizing the students to ensure the victory of the Nepali Congress in the elections as per the need. "The unity of the communists who have moved ahead climbing the ladder of democracy will not have any impact on the Nepali Congress," he said. Central member Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat called on the NSU to play a pivotal role in safeguarding democracy. "The dream of the communists to establish communism in Nepal in 15 years will not be fulfilled," he added. Minister for Agricultural Development and party central member Ram Krishna Yadav said that the Nepali Congress should emerge victorious in the elections even for implementing the constitution. NSU president Nain Singh Mahar and general secretary Kundan Raj Kafle said the education sector took a significant leap forward during the time of the Nepali Congress-led governments. They claimed that it was the NC that would also take the country towards prosperity. Party leaders Pradip Giri, Mahesh Acharya, Dhanraj Gurung, Gagan Thapa, Pradip mPoudel, Bishwa Prakash Sharma, National Planning Commission (NPC) vice-chairman Dr Swornim Wagle among others will train the hundreds of NSU supporters who have arrived in the capital from various places of the country to participate in the gathering, according to NSU. RSS Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba Kathmandu, Nepal: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has reshuffled his cabinet relieving all the ministers representing the CPN Maoist Center from their portfolios. The recently included ministers and state ministers from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) have been allocated ministries while the ministers from the CPN Maoist Centre ministers have been left without portfolios. With the new reshuffle of ministers, RPP Chairman Kamal Thapa has been appointed as Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister, Dil Nath Giri as Minister for Urban Development, Jayanta Chand as Minister for Supplies, Bikram Thapa as Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare. Similarly, Bhaskar Bhadra has been appointed as State Minister for Energy, Sushil Kumar Shrestha as State Minsiter for Supplies, Kunti Shahi as State Minister for Urban Development, Kanta Bhattarai has been appointed as State Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare. Earlier it was said that the ministers from the Maoist party would resign from the government. But the Maoist backtracked from the decision. The News on Sunday, October 8, 2017 The greatest block on the way to normal, friendly and cooperative relations between India and Pakistan is the rise to ascendancy of religious extremists on both sides People to people dialogues, if allowed to develop to their full potential, can not only resolve tensions between states, they can also lead to fruitful cooperation between them for the mutual good of their populations. Such dialogues are based on some positive assumptions: 1. That tension and confrontation between two countries, such as Pakistan and India, cause diversion of their scarce resources from investment in their peoplesa uplift to defence-related projects. 2. That people to people interaction can help the two sides to share what they have achieved in the areas of learning, art and culture and discover possibilities of further progress in these areas. 3. That a people to people dialogue creates knowledgeable pressure groups on both sides that can develop stakes in one anotheras countries and help them to eschew actions, policies and postures that could lead to friction and conflict. 4. That the groups formed to promote goodwill between the two countries can jointly produce workable plans to resolve differences between them and help them evolve mutually beneficial policies. These assumptions have been tested in practice and experience has justified them. I can offer evidence of this from the initiatives with which I have been associated. After experimenting with promotion of India-Pakistan peace and understanding through closed door meetings of eminent citizens and subject specialists from both countries, a joint group of goodwill promoters decided to launch Pakistan-India Peoplesa Forum for Peace and Democracy (PIPFPD) in 1994 and took five decisions of strategic importance. Both the governments are not prepared to shed their contempt for their ordinary citizens. They are afraid of their own people. Further, a large number of professionals have been feeding themselves on confrontation between the two neighbours. 1. That they will bring significant numbers of Pakistani and Indian citizens from various walks of life together at regular intervals to work out plans for realising the organisationas objectives. 2. That these joint conventions will be public events and their proceedings will be published and widely disseminated. 3. That the Forum will discuss all disputes and differences that divide the two countries as well as the obstacles to the consolidation of democracy in these states, and that no cause of tension between the two countries would be swept under the carpet. 4. That the organisationas mission will be carried out on either side by a democratically constituted national chapter and its branches in provinces/states and major cities. 5. That the expenses on PIPFPDas activities will be met through membersa contributions and donations by indigenous supporters. No foreign or government funding was to be sought. At the very first joint convention, over 150 delegates from each side identified four issues that caused tension between the closest South Asian neighbours or affected their progress towards a genuine democracy. These issues were: Armaments race; Governance; Fundamentalism; and Kashmir. More than 300 delegates from the two countries called for a halt to the arms race between Pakistan and India, movements for more representative governments on both sides, a resolute struggle to overcome the rising menace of religious extremism and intolerance in both countries, and a solution to the Kashmir issue in accordance with the wishes of its people. Creation of a consensus on these key issues was undoubtedly an achievement for PIPFPD and the people of both countries. Subsequently, the Forum tried to build bridges between Pakistan and India through joint working groups of lawyers, trade union workers, womenas rights activists, etc. These efforts did not fail to generate a movement, on a limited scale though, for normalising India-Pakistan relations, PIPFPD branches started working in all provinces of Pakistan and in cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Islamabad, Multan and Faisalabad; and in the Indian states of Rajasthan, Maharashtra, UP and West Bengal, and in New Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad. The official prejudice against civil society peace activists started receding. Both governments could be persuaded to give visas to large groups of delegates and they were allowed to walk across the Wagah border. When the convention was held at Kolkata, Chief Minister Basu generously extended help and in Delhi the President of India hosted a reception for the delegates. When an Indian official cancelled the Pakistani delegatesa railway booking, another official restored it. An Indian citizen went to the High Court of Karnataka to prevent the arrival of scores of Pakistanis in Bangalore on law and order grounds but the IG police told the court he apprehended no problem and the petition was dismissed. But soon enough PIPFPD started running out of luck. The media hype over Kargil extended the inter-state confrontation to the popular level. The blame-game both countries played by accusing one another of terrorist incidents on either side curtailed the space for voices of peace and sanity. And the retreat of secular and democratic forces under pressure from quasi-religious extremist groups in both countries made talking of peace and amity hazardous. To some extent, the flag-bearers of the organisation, too, contributed to their difficulties by their inability to meet the new challenges they faced. Now the PIPFPD work is at a standstill because the two governments are collaborating with one another to prevent people from travelling to one anotheras country and putting their heads together for the common benefit. Despite the hurdles faced by the promoters of people to people dialogue, their achievements are by no means insignificant. Thanks to their efforts, travel between India and Pakistan by ordinary citizens did increase for some years at least. Students and businessmenas exchanges became possible. Fear of one another and hatred between the citizens of two countries declined. Two examples of success of these groups may be recalled. After Kargil, relations between India and Pakistan touched the lowest ever level. Talks between officials were abandoned, and exchange of non-papers even was stopped. The efforts of peace activists in both-countries, backed by the business community of India, helped clear the way to the Agra Summit between General Musharraf and Prime Minister Vajpaee. That the chance of normalising relations was blown away by fear-driven politicians is another story. Again, India-Pakistan relations reached a breaking point after terrorist attacks at several places in Mumbai. Asma Jahangir took a civil society delegation to India to defuse the situation. An Indian delegation led by Kuldip Nayar paid a return visit to Lahore. The efforts of the two delegations did not go waste. What are the obstacles to people to people dialogue today? The greatest block on the way to normal, friendly and cooperative relations between India and Pakistan is the rise to ascendancy of religious extremists on both sides. Besides, both the governments are not prepared to shed their contempt for their ordinary citizens. They are afraid of their own people. Further, a large number of professionals have been feeding themselves on confrontation between the two neighbours. Finally, both love their distant patrons more than their friends across the common border. Perhaps they do not know what mutual suicide means. I. A. Rehman: The author is a senior columnist and Secretary General Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP). Monthly Review, Volume 69, Issue 05 (October 2017) Written in 1945, Gopinath Mohantyas novel Paraja vividly illustrates the economic transition ushered in by the modern Indian state through the story of an adivasi peasant, Sukru Jani, and his daughters Jili and Bili, and sons Mandia and Tikra. [1] It is a poignant tale of the gradual destruction of a community and an entire way of life in a village in the undivided Koraput district, as seen through one familyas experience. To pay the fine for trespassing in a forest he believed belonged to him and his people, Sukru mortgages his land to a sahukar, a moneylender. He is compelled to abandon his content life as a subsistence farmer to become a goti, a bonded laborer, along with his younger son at the sahukaras. Nevertheless, he is unable to redeem himself to repay his debts, and the novel narrates this journey with a tragic grandeur. Events in recent years have made Mohantyas book seem not only timeless, but prescient. Sukruas story prefigures death and destruction that would besiege the area more than half a century later, when the Indian government leased out the same land that his family farmed to private firms for bauxite mining, provoking fierce resistance. The peasant communities of Paraja, who once watched from behind the bushes as alien forest guards in uniform stomped up and down the forest, found the courage to stand up to the paramilitary and army flag-marches in the area in December 2004 in Kashipur, in the Raygada district, formerly part of Koraput in the novel. Mohanty foresaw other developments as well: today, walking among the torn-up mining tracts and looming company structures, one is likely to come across young girls carrying loads of soil on their heads and giggling amongst themselves, recalling the world of Paraja, where Jili and Bili work long hours as construction laborers on a highway. A reader of the novel might also recall the scene where a helpless Sukru appears in court, dejected and defeated, tricked by both his lawyer and the witnesses he had thought would testify in his favorabut who were all bought off by the evil sahukar. With all hope seemingly lost, Sukru turns to Dharmu, the god of justice. Today we see the same sense of bewilderment among people struggling to comprehend why their spirited resistance to bauxite mining could not stop the companies from entering Kashipur. In their battle against this state-sponsored land grab, an oppressed people once again found themselves pitted against an array of forces far more powerful than their collective strength. Theirs had always been a hard existence, based on backbreaking labor, but a saving feature of that traditional life, the intimate relationship with the land, has today been badly ruptured. Worse, the ties of kinship and community that helped avert starvation and ease the daily grind of making a living have been irreparably fractured. In contemporary India as everywhere else, capitalism is not only profit; it is profit based on the destruction of anything that comes in its way, especially social relations. Few areas of economic life in India have been so transformed by the last quarter-century of neoliberal policy as womenas labor. Economic restructuring and the promotion of corporate interests in the globalized economy are increasingly linking the eastern Indian state of Odisha to mining companies and steel conglomerates. With vast areas still underdeveloped, it is essential to understand the current predicament of people living within the subsistence economy in states like Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, where both domestic and foreign corporate investors have found an eager ally in state governments. This onslaught by capital has heightened the struggles of women from adivasi, dalit, and Other Backward Castes communities, whose livelihood has come under severe threat. The lived experience of those who depend on the subsistence economy serves to expose official myths of adevelopment,a and women have played a significant part in the sustained resistance to the neoliberal assault in Odisha. Odisha in Transition Odisha is largely a peasant society, and almost 60 percent of the population works in agriculture. According to the 2011 census, 22.8 percent belonged to scheduled tribes (STs) and 17.1 percent to scheduled castes (SCs)athat is, to marginalized groups designated for affirmative action by the Indian governmentaand in many districts, the combined proportion of SCs and STs totaled 70 percent. The state also contains some of the countryas richest mineral deposits, including almost 60 percent of its bauxite reserves, 98.4 percent of chromite, 91.8 percent of nickel, 32.9 percent of iron ore, and 24.8 percent of coal. Marginal and small properties constitute 72.2 percent and 19.7 percent of total landholdings, respectively, commanding 39.6 percent and 30.9 percent of the total operated area. [2] The people of Odisha have been consigned to abject povertyaboth before and after Independence. Adivasis, dalits, and small and marginal peasants thus form the backbone of any resistance against mining and industrial projects. Here I will focus on the hardships of women who depend on subsistence agriculture or forest produce, while also engaging in some amount of commercial cultivation. These women interact with the market through the sale of forest produce and other small items, such as coconuts, bananas, or turmeric which in turn allows them to purchase oil, salt, clothes, and other necessities. In recent years the list has expanded to include other consumer goods. Yet subsistence farming remains the dominant mode of production and consumption in these communities, and their experience urges a reexamination of the conflict that arises when subsistence labor is pitted against an aggressively expanding global capitalism. As such social and economic contradictions have deepened in recent years, the struggle against mining companies and steel plants has remained largely defensive, with the dalit or adivasi peasantry often demanding at best only to be left to fend for themselves, as they have done since long before the making of the modern Indian state. Officially, over 40 percent of Odishaas population lives below the poverty line, but the real poverty rates in these areas are even higher. Reports by the World Bank and the United Nations place Odisha in a contiguous zone of acute food insecurity, of which the districts of Kandhamal, Malkangiri, Gajapati, and Rayagada stand out. The proliferation of deaths from starvation in the Kalahandi district is well known. These regionsaas rich in minerals as their people are mired in poverty and hungerahave become prime targets of trade deregulation and investment. International aid had already cleared the road under Rajiv Gandhi as the gospel of adevelopmenta was brought to the KBK (Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput) region. In the years since, state and capital have opened the way for large-scale mineral extraction in the garb of development. Capital Accumulation and Patriarchy Capitalist patriarchy would like to make us forget our true origins, and to replace them with money, capital, machines and investments. We must therefore remind ourselves of the simple truths that life comes from women and food comes from land. [3] The current political economy poses three major challenges for women from communities traditionally engaged in subsistence labor. First, both state and capital are carrying out a sustained assault on existing ways of life, resulting in a bitter and coercive alienation of people from their productive resources and assets. These communities have always depended on a self-sustaining economy, and remained marginalized from the world of wage labor. Second, the massive plunder of natural resources and land, projected as development and industrialization, has found active allies in the state and its administrative machinery, along with an ambivalent judiciary. This development paradigm relies heavily on coercion and repression, with the state deploying paramilitary and security forces against its own people, and on the manipulation and manufacturing of consent through a range of non-state actors, including the media, development and funding agencies, acorporate social responsibilitya initiatives, and sections of academia and the intelligentsia. Third, such processes of accumulation also entail an accentuation of divisions between communities, particularly inflaming adivasi-dalit conflicts and attacks on minority religious groups. Struggles over resources and entitlements among the underprivileged have further weakened their prospects for resistance. Today, women in the subsistence economy are often at the forefront of that resistance, leading movements in societies that risk being obliterated by capital. Yet these movements hardly figure in feminist analyses of contemporary Indian society. Such studies should foreground womenas potential as leaders of anti-displacement movements, even as they struggle against patriarchal domination within their families and communities. Just as important is the urgent need to address the great disconnect between, on the one hand, the reality of womenas struggles to protect their subsistence and livelihood from capitalist advancement and on the other, the near-total absence of a critique of capitalism from the mainstream womenas movement in India, which has only served to tighten patriarchyas stranglehold on those subject to class and caste domination. The following section is therefore not only an attempt to foreground these womenas hardships and challenges, but also to persuade those in more privileged circumstances to see and hear these women in struggle, through interviews and personal accounts of the struggle against displacement and exploitation. Since theirs are marginalized voices even within their own community, it becomes even more imperative to listen to them. aWe Protect the Land for Our Grandchildrena The village of Kucheipadar, in the Kashipur block of the Raygada district, was once the epicenter of the anti-mining movement. Two firms, Norsk Hydro and Alcan, withdrew from the joint alumina consortium due to community resistance in their own countries, Norway and Canada, respectively. In recent years, however, bauxite mining and refinery operations have resumed under the management of the Mumbai-based multinational Aditya Birla, and construction of the new plant has advanced. Despite these new incursions, the traditional routines of the villageas women appear unchanged. Like their mothers and grandmothers before them, they work long hours, leaving home around 4 a.m. and returning only by 2 p.m. With only the little bit of the mandia pejo (gruel) that they carry with them to eat, they labor all day in the hills, each fetching a yearas stock of firewood. They make a little money raising and selling pigs, with three or four pigs a year fetching around 1,000 to 1,200 rupees each. Yet despite these inherited hardships, the women are militantly opposed to the entry of mining companies. They know too well that they stand to lose everything, from their austere but stable livelihoods to their communal bonds and customs. Ambai, who has been at the head of the resistance to bauxite mining in Kashipur, lucidly expressed her views on the kind of economic development imposed on the region and its social repercussions: aWe mothers have to work day and night,a she says. aIf we do not work, we do not survive. We will die. There is nothing for us otherwise. The land is most important to us. As long as the land is there, our grandchildren and their children too will live. Now we are no longer so sure.a They are able to store enough grains and forest produce to last a little less than a year. When the rainy season begins, life comes to a grinding halt. In August and September, many families resort to eating mango kernels, wild roots, and animal carcasses. A fungus that grows in the kernels often causes food poisoning and death. In 2001, it resulted in the deaths of at least twenty-five people. [4] In a subsistence economy, it is the daily work of food collection and preservation, preparing for periods of scarcity, and coping with crisis that makes mutual cooperation, kinship ties, and the relationship with land so essential. With the arrival of the major mining firms, these generations-old relations of mutual dependency and reciprocity have come under attack. As some families succumbed to the coercive tactics and persuasion of company agents and middle men to sell their land for compensation offered by the company, rifts opened within families and the community, fomenting division and mutual suspicion. This was achieved by the company and administration through bribes, lies, and deceit. For example, the supply of alcohol and false promises of employment to male members to extract consent for land sales has become a common strategy. Similarly, fear of continuous police harassment has deterred many from carrying on in the andolan (movement). Construction work, supervised by agents from the Central Reserve Police Force, is largely done by migrant laborers, as well as some local residents. Many contractors are outsiders. As Bhagaban Majhi, one of the leaders of the movement against bauxite mining, explained: aNo one here has got work of any value or lasting nature. We fill in the gaps and that too when there is shortage of daily wage workers like in the rainy season. Since 2008, almost 100 people have not been paid wages for the work done under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act [MNREGA]. After sending numerous appeals to the authorities, these people gheraoed the BDO office and even appealed to the District Collector for payment of their wages but in vain.a [5] Residents can see clearly that the companies are concerned only with their own plans and profits, and that the governmentas development programs were always meant to dispossess them of that little they had, for nothing in return. Ambai expresses it coherently: We keep wondering why the government has turned a blind eye to so much force, coercion, arrests, alcohol, money, lies, and deceit. This is how the company is getting established. Where are the tall promises of bringing development to the region? The little that we had is getting lost too. Life has become more difficult. There is disagreement and clash in every family. We have no idea whether our grandchildren can survive this. 6] aIf the company has failed us, it is not a surprise. But what about so many people who were opposed to the company? Money destroys all. I am not saying that everyone cheats. There are some like us who did not want the money. But we are so few. The andolan was able stop the company in Chilika and in Gopalpur, then why not here? I was not fighting for my land or my family. The fight was for the entire of Kashipur. But when the company is here, we are all separated from each other. No one listens to anyone. There is unhappiness in each family. We were all together while opposing the company but now we are divided. From persecuting Maoist groups to engineering rifts within the community, the state administration and Aditya Birla played a sinister game throughout. Corporate strategies sought to divide people by preempting meetings, creating parallel committees, deploying Central Reserve Police, paying unequal wages, and even by conducting mock jan sunwais, or worker-organized public hearings. While the police and media label all participants in resistance groups as aMaoists,a the barriers and divisions described above are used to alienate villagers from each other and inhibit the formation of any unified front. Small bribes are paid to village informants to keep an eye on the activities of their neighbors, and the amount increases if they manage to disrupt public meetings or undermine collective decision-making. Even the informants are soon discarded by their corporate handlers, however, with monthly payments suspended as soon as village resistance appears to have been preempted. [7] In their participation in both subsistence production and the struggle for recognition of their labor, the women of Odisha thus must contend with the lackeys of capitalism in the form of the police and the media; the administrative and bureaucratic apparatus of the state; and a broad range of divisive tactics, including lies, bribes, misinformation, and surveillance. aEven the Landless Get Enough to Eat Herea After over a decade of delays, in 2017, a major project in Odisha planned by the South Korean steel multinational POSCO, which would have had a productive capacity of 12 million metric tons of steel per year and its own captive port and iron ore mines, was finally forced out after sustained popular resistance. The governmentas decision to allocate 600 million metric tons of the highest-grade iron ore in the Khandadhar hills to a foreign firm, in what was reportedly the single largest foreign direct investment in India since 1991, was also opposed by many companies. [8] After a series of mining scams that led to the amendment of the Mine and Minerals Development and Regulation Act in early 2015, POSCO was required to join a long queue of bidders for iron ore resources. The site of the proposed plant and port is fertile, with a thriving agricultural economy; betel vine cultivation on small plots of land provides a steady income to both owner-cultivators and wage laborers, employing around 22,000 people. In addition, an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 people in fishing communities from neighboring gram panchayats, or village council districts, would also have lost their livelihood under the POSCO plan. Likewise, in the planned POSCO mining areas, residents of approximately thirty-two villages in Keonjhar and eighty-four villages in Sundergarh, mostly Scheduled Tribes, depend on the surrounding forests for small produce, both for consumption and sale. The Forest Rights Act, designed to protect such groups, has not been implemented in these villages, nor has any Resettlement and Rehabilitation program been announced. And even if they had been, the bulk of these struggling people are landless laborers, with no property to sell or compensation to demand. People rely on their own hard labor and sustenance from the sea and forests. Subsistence farming is the main mode of production and consumption, involving even the landless. Those close to Kujanga and other small mofussil towns work as vendors, hawkers, and cooks. Others grow paddy, betel, cashews, and a variety of fruits, and collect forest produce year-round. Many also raise livestock, and the sale of goats and goat milk is common. Odishaas rare combination of forest and the sea, along with its high water table, vital for betel vine production, makes possible the cultivation of much else, including papaya, drumsticks, pumpkins, ladiesa finger, bananas, kunduri (ivy gourds), and a variety of saag. Women in fishing communities sort, dry, and salt the fish after the catch comes in. As one woman declared before POSCOas withdrawal: aAs long as we can eat pakhaal bhaat [fermented rice] and saag, we can continue the fight against POSCO. And betel vines bring us the money. No one is without work, even the landless get enough to eat here. They get to eat pakhaal bhaat and saag. If the government has made this area a jail, we are happy in this jail. At least our stomachs are full. But if the government brings in POSCO, we will starve and die.a [9] Meanwhile, people from the Transit Camp in Badagabapur, who had already been displaced by the planned development, returned to their villages after almost ten years. While the mainstream media and state government touted them as pro-POSCO, the anti-POSCO movement actually embraced them as allies upon their return. Dependent on a government dole of just twenty rupees per day for a decade, these villagers received neither the promised compensation for the land, trees, and cattle they had left behind, nor any formal employment. They longed for their paddy fields and betel vine plots. After finally reconciling and returning to the village of Patana, they resumed betel vine production and other activities of their traditional livelihood. Over time, both the camp residents who returned and those opposed to POSCO realized that neither the company nor the government had anything to offer. In all these communities, women are deeply involved in the production process, whether through agriculture, fishing, gathering forest produce, or even wage labor. These are ordinary women, otherwise largely invisible, trying to hold on to their livelihood and protect it for their children against the rapacity of both capital and the state. In the struggle against dispossession, in the continuing clash between capital and subsistence, these women see their political resistance, too, as hard labor, to defend their present and future survival. aOur Hearts Were Heavy as We Fleda For all its slogans of development, modernity, and progress, neoliberalism in India has depended no less on the consolidation of regressive and fundamentalist forcesaa phenomenon variously ignored or endorsed by the ruling classes, depending on their electoral interests and political alignment. In a vicious anti-Christian pogrom in the Kandhamal district of Odisha in 2008, more than 50,000 people were left homeless, 5,000 houses were burnt and destroyed, at least 400 churches, prayer halls, and other institutions were desecrated, demolished, or burnt down. Many women and girls were sexually assaulted, and thirty-eight people killed. The militant Hindu organization Bajrang Dal and its allies have been blamed for orchestrating the violence, but the state and local administration, themselves governed by Hindu chauvinist parties, have turned a blind eye. This assault on adivasi and dalit Christians in Kandhamal has upended the life and livelihood of thousands of people. As part of a team that visited the area in March 2011, I talked to several women about their experiences. [10] Almost all spoke of their diminished options for subsistence. Despite Kandhamalas official image as a success story of MNREGA, most people replied negatively when asked about the law. A few described facing discrimination for being Christians, and many had not received MNREGA job cards and or Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration cards. And even when available, the employment offered through these job cards is maati workadigging, levelling, carrying head-loads of soilafor which they are untrained and unaccustomed. Prior to the violence, many of these women owned and cultivated small plots of land, and supplemented their income with other work, often as hired farm laborers. One woman said she used to earn up to 100,000 rupees each season growing turmeric, and another reported that they had formerly cultivated and sold up to 70,000 rupees worth of vegetables per year. On top of this, they had goats, hens, and a lot of paddy. The village is also home to a small trader community selling gutka (a popular chewing powder with a mild stimulant effect), dried fish, and salt. Before the attacks, some used to make leaf plates to sell; others grew vegetables, cultivated land, collected forest produce, and worked in stone crushing. While fear and trauma prevented some from looking for work, many said they were simply not called for work. Women earn about 80 rupees per day and men about 110 rupees in wage work in nearby towns. On average, women find only about a weekas worth of daily wage work each month. An NGO employee informed our team how thirteen women had lost agricultural land. Because they could not provide an original patta, or legal land title, dating back more than seventy-five years, their land was seized by the government and given to tribal members under the Forest Right Act. Those who lost their job and BPL cards in the violence received replacements, but only if their names appeared on government rolls. The Antodaya card, part of a government food subsidy program, entitles them to 35 kilograms of rice at 2 rupees per kilo. Meanwhile, the government had promised jobs to all women whose husbands were killed in the violence, but nothing had materialized. [11] There were also twenty-seven state-sponsored Self Help Groups (SHGs), of which twenty-one had received loans of 50,000 rupees each, and an additional 5,000 rupees per group for agooda performance. Such SHGs are linked to banks for the delivery of micro-credit. The disruption caused by the communally charged situation made it impossible for many women to repay the loans. The State Bank of India closed their accounts and adjusted their savings and the 5,000-rupee government grant against the loan repayment. Most men and young boys have left the area for Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and elsewhere in search of work. Entire families have migrated, too, although there is no available estimate of their number. In particular, dalit and adivasi peasants with small land holdings have abandoned Kandhamal en masse. As one dalit peasant who had survived the violence and was in hospital said: aOur hearts were heavy as we had to flee leaving our crops behind. They have never been deserted by us. We have tended to the land and the crops with so much care since years and years. When we were sowing in that season, we never knew we would leave the crops forever. We could not sleep for days remembering this. They took over our crops too.a [12] It is not difficult to trace the role of corporate interest in the Kandhamal persecution and the subsequent exodus of subsistence workers. This potent combination of religious right-wing upsurge and the neoliberal offensive of appropriation and expansion provides an ideal means of exacerbating differences and weakening organized resistance among the marginalized and underprivileged majority, in Odisha and beyond. [13] The enlistment of poor women through SHGs by the Hindutva forces in attacking Christian households implies the active role of the government in misusing resources meant for womenas empowerment to spread communal violence and hatred. [14] This deadly dual ascendancy of corporate power and right-wing reactionanot only in Odisha, but throughout India and the worldahas accelerated the dispossession of peasant and working-class communities. As Silvia Federici had written, primitive or primary accumulation was not simply an accumulation of exploitable workers and capital; it was also an accumulation of differences and divisions within the working class, whereby hierarchies of gender, as well as race and age, became constitutive of class rule and the formation of the modern proletariat. [15] Toward a New Framework Similar to the labor of the adivasis, who have preserved the mountains and forests, or to that of peasantsathe food producersawho struggle to find their place in a modern market economy, womenas labor in these regions poses questions that are as old as womenas oppression itself. They are food-producers, nurturers, and caregivers, yet there continues to be a palpable lack of frameworks, tools, and political imagination regarding womenas relationship to land and natural resources, based on their productive labor in subsistence economies. Even as the project of capitalist modernity in India has wiped out whole communities of people engaged in subsistence, the issue has largely faded from view within Indian labor studies and gender studies. In countries abroad as well as in India, the move toward market liberalization in the early 1990s gradually saw womenas studies curricula shifting their focus away from women engaged in agriculture and peasant labor, who had previously been conceived as a key to understanding rural womenas situation in developing countries. These trends have accelerated over the last decade and a half, as Indian feminist scholars foregrounded women (and gender) without making either analytical or political connections to the exploitation of dalits and adivasis. At the same time, dalit and Marxist radical scholarship here continued to consign patriarchy as a category of social and economic analysis to a lower tier in systems of oppression. Perhaps the greatest setback came as middle- and upper-class feminists foreclosed any cross-class unity with working-class and peasant struggles by endorsing neoliberal aentrepreneurshipa initiatives, whereby women were expected to volunteer themselves out of poverty with the aid of state and international funding agencies. Such projects as the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh have done little to alleviate the countryas desperate levels of poverty and inequality, instead serving only to further embed poor women in the circuits of global capital, as workers and consumers. Recent years have thus been marked by the eerie absence of any critique of capitalist development in the mainstream womenas movement in India; the political horizon has apparently shrunk to the level of NGO aprojectsa on hunger and poverty. Issues of womenas reproductive labor, sexual division of labor, and caste-based labor, which potentially have so much to contribute to both Marxian and feminist analyses of Indiaas marginalized groups, have instead remained largely outside their purview, in favor of esoteric theorizations of asubalterna identities. New research is needed to place the relationship of land, labor practices, in a broader matrix, encompassing not only political economy but also cultural, religious, and social forces. A crucial part of this project will be to question the validity of existing means of assessing the work of women in subsistence economies. Rauna Kuokkanen has argued that dismissing subsistence economies as abackwarda or aprimitivea only serves to facilitate their exploitation and erasure in the process of capital accumulation. [16] A deeper recognition of women engaged in subsistence production will require a shift in the way we look at agriculture itself. A study of land grabs in the states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, for example, would bring the experiences of the women discussed in this article to the fore. It would reveal the vast exodus of women and children from Chhattisgarh since the mid-2000s, and the emigration of dalit and adivasi families from Kandhamal in Odisha to Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and other states. Feminist scholars in India, as elsewhere, have both criticized and enriched Marxist theory by foregrounding womenas labor in the family, community, and society. But the lives and struggles of women in subsistence societies still await such study. Households in these societies are the unit of both production and consumption, thus dissolving the already thin line dividing productive labor and household labor that characterizes industrial economies. Likewise, a vast gulf separates these women from most others in the cash economy, who are able to apurchasea some degree of economic freedom, including domestic labor. These and other distinguishing features of womenas experience in subsistence economies call for a new, dedicated body of research and political advocacy. Ranjana Padhi is a feminist activist and writer based in Bhubaneswar, and the author of Those Who Did Not Die: Impact of the Agrarian Crisis on Women in Punjab (Sage, 2012). The New York Times, October 14, 2017 RED CENTURY Allahabad, INDIA a I grew up in Allahabad, a city in northern India on the banks of the Ganges, in the 1980s. Not much happened there, apart from the two seasonal festivals a Holi, which marks the end of winter, and Diwali, the greeter at winteras doorstep. The rest of the world was far away. There was little world history taught to us in school; the curriculum was insularly devoted to Indiaas freedom struggle. We were faintly aware of the Cold War, that India was friendly with the Soviet Union, that an Indian astronaut had gone into space with a couple of Russians. Two cultural events made Allahabad come alive a the release of a new Bollywood movie, and the arrival of a Soviet Book Exhibition. It was the age of benign propaganda and the Soviets were winning. Though India was proclaimed to be non-aligned throughout the Cold War, it leaned heavily toward the Soviet Union. India followed the socialist economic model and the Soviets invested significantly in India a from defense to infrastructure. My father grew up in Bhilai, a town in central India where the Russians were helping set up a steel plant. One afternoon some Russian officials arrived, chairs were hurriedly pulled together and photographs taken. No words were exchanged but everyone smiled for the camera. A photograph appeared in the next issue of Sovietland magazine, underlining the bonhomie between Russian and Indian families. Indians were paranoid about Americans meddling in our internal political affairs. In Allahabad, the rumor was that the Americans sucked out the vitamins from the rice before sending it as aid to India. The Soviets we loved. When printing technology in India was restricted to black and white, Russia bamboozled us with colorful comics and magazines. Russian ballets and circuses performed in Indian cities and were broadcast frequently on Indian state television. Soviet cultural centers were active social hubs in Indian cities, offering lessons in music, dance and chess. Russians loved Bollywood. Raj Kapoor, who made and starred in musicals about simple-hearted characters smiling in the face of adversity, would be greeted with rousing receptions in the Soviet Union. The Soviet Book Exhibition would cram a vast ground in the center of town with stalls selling books and magazines, for all ages, in English and various Indian languages. Sovietland magazine was published in 13 Indian languages. It carried pictures of Soviet life, of collective farming, and Indo-Soviet collaborations on projects like the Bhilai steel plant. Soviet books were inexpensive and beautifully produced on glossy art paper. Their low cost and great production value matched the preferred phrase of socialist India: acheap and best.a The comparatively meek American cultural effort was largely restricted to sending complimentary copies of Span magazine to university professors. My father, a poet who taught English literature at Allahabad University, received a copy of Span. It had pictures of cheeseburgers studded with sesame seeds and of geometry-box corn fields. A typical issue would have Ronald Reagan on the cover, a short story by John Gardner, photographs by Ansel Adams, a debate on Americaas nuclear strategy, and a long piece on Americaas search for natural gas. aThe Russians are way ahead of the Americans in their hide-and-seek game... They strike at the grass roots,a an essay in The Christian Science Monitor noted in 1982. aThey are in touch with the masses, not with the elite.a After the book exhibitions, a traveling van stocked with Russian classics would snake its way through the lanes of Allahabad and other small towns across India. Russian childrenas literature is believed to have blurred the lines between propaganda and art, perhaps like no other childrenas literature. I donat remember any disreputable titles that glorified electrification and agriculture. I read numerous folk tales and childrenas books printed by Moscow publishers a Raduga and Progress. I had begun to read The Hardy Boys series, Nancy Drew and Enid Blyton by the time the Soviet books arrived. Even as a kid, one could make out that the American and English books were written to a formula. After a while one wasnat reading these for the story but for the salivating descriptions of food a the exotic buttered scones and ginger beer in Blytonas family-farm dramas; the ice cream sodas in Archie comics. Food and propaganda were curiously missing from the Russian books. Alexander Raskinas aWhen Daddy Was a Little Boya was first published in 1966. It is a quietly funny, comically grotesque memoir of growing up: a boy gets bitten by a dog on both cheeks. I found some echoes of my Indian childhood in the Russian tales. Reading obsessively, even under the blanket; disliking and not eating bread; going for piano or sitar lessons, even when you had no talent; the emphasis on good handwriting; making silly verses and reciting them unbidden to every visitor. Arrogance was to be avoided at all costs. The couples in the folk tales were either childless, or aging with beautiful unmarried daughters. Some stories centered on grandmothers living with granddaughters. There was a touch of the macabre: two sisters kill their third sister out of malice before the redemptive power of magic revives her. I came across words I didnat understand: sarafans, kavach. It didnat matter. In those throbbing, feral stories, I encountered Baba Yaga, the quintessential Russian witch. At times, she lived in the middle of the forest in a rotating cabin; at others, in aa great house of white stone with forty-one pillars at the gate.a Not all folk tales ended with a neat moral. Many were about the constantly varying kaleidoscope of human nature. The miser borrows a kopeck from a peasant to give to a beggar. The dogged peasant keeps after the miser; he wants his kopeck back. Both keep outwitting the other. By the end of the tale, both men are richer due to the peasantas cleverness. The naAve and yet not-so-naAve peasant still worries about the kopeck he lent the miser. The Russians came to India and distributed their stories virtually for free. If this was propaganda, no one has bad memories of imbibing it. My favorite part of the evening, after having shopped for twenty hard-bound books for ten rupees at the Soviet Book Exhibition, was to go to Hotstuff, the only American-style joint in town. I would leaf through the illustrations by Igor Yershov, listen to Wham, drink a strawberry shake and eat a Big Boy burger. Palash Krishna Mehrotra is the author of aEunuch Park,a a collection of short stories, and aThe Butterfly Generation: A Personal Journey into the Passions and Follies of Indiaas Technicolour Youth.a Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Letters to the Editor: Encourage support for prohibition of nuclear weapons, Thankful for Colorthon support, Put differences aside, Let there be peace on Earth There were about 40 people at the event which was organized by five different Central area elementary PTAs. All the candidates were there except Chelsea Byers (she has an ill relative and was represented by a co-worker) and Betty Patu (who also had a stand-in, her daughter, until she came about 20 minutes into the event). The moderators were careful to ask candidates to be "respectful and professional" and said that there were not there to "cut each other down." There were questionnaires with answers available for each candidate. (I will try to get a link so you can read all of them.) I only snagged Chelsea Byers and it made for fascinating reading. I haven't seen that much ed reform verbiage in quite awhile. She also says, "as a career educator" which would imply being a teacher. Here's what the company she currently works for says about what they do: Our campus serves as a home base to start-ups and established companies building tech-enabled innovations and has all of the amenities of a co-working space - plus learning opportunities, resources, and access to the network a growing startup needs. The board can't stop PTSAs from fundraising (and these parents are doing that because they want what's best for their kids, like we all do) but it can supplement schools without these extra resources to give those kids the same opportunities. We can increase the number of AP classes we offer to students and set the bar higher for academic rigor. We wonder every day if our future kids here will be worse off because we moved to the US, and specifically to Seattle Public Schools. How will you increase enrollment and encourage parents to send their students to public schools rather than charter schools? One parent of color felt like SPS wasn't serving her child and she was trapped sending her kid to a chronically low-performing attendance area school until a charter came along (and then white Seattleite (sic) parents villanized (sic) her choice for choosing a charter instead.) The ever-fascinating Herbert Camet, one of the two candidates in District IV, said that if the Legislature doesn't see results from SPS, why should they give them money? He also made the point that he "heard" that Superintendent Nyland was "a good guy" but that what mattered were outcomes. He's right there. Omar Vasquez, one of the two candidates in District V, said that there was "financial mismanagement" on the part of the district because the teachers contract was okayed when the district had no clear plan on where the money was coming from. I have to agree that they should have known and stated where the money was coming from and maybe that's just one of the many reasons to replace Superintendent Nyland. But then he said something that contradicts what I have heard at district meetings about the budget. He claims there is a massive deficit coming up but then, in coming years, will be much smaller. That's not what the district has said. He, like Byers, seems to not understand the situation about programs in SPS. Vasquez says they should expand IB to middle and more high schools. If the district doesn't have money to fund their programs like IB and AP, then how do you expand them? What seems clear is that Byers and Vasquez clearly support charter schools and it would be great if they would just own that. Certainly anyone with any type of views can run for the Board, even charter supporters. But at least own it. DeWolf was asked a question on homeless students (which just happened to be lucky because that's an area of expertise for him a he works for homeless communities and the SHA). He pointed out that he has worked on the issue at city, county and state levels and helped pass policies, working with now-Mayor Tim Burgess. Oddly, his opponent, Omar Vasquez, instead of addressing homelessness effects on students, took the time to say he "didn't have political connections" and had been "an educator his entire adult life." they had no ESL teacher. This is the fourth year that one of our highly impacted SpEd programs doesn't have a teacher. We have 3 such programs: Access, Primary SEL, and Intermediate SEL.) Regardless of disagreements on issues, my aim is to always remain civil and constructive. I apologize for failing to maintain the highest of professional standards. Ballots are to drop this week, around the 18th so here are more school board candidate updates.But I'll be straight-up here.Herbert Camet may have an extensive background in education but is not qualified for this position and his temperament is completely wrong for a group endeavor.I agree with the Times (who gave Omar Vasquez the nod) that DeWolf and Vasquez both have good solid backgrounds. But their reasoning - some it based on the timing of levies(?) - is weird. They completely left out his charter school background, also a misstep.So why DeWolf? In a word, teamwork. DeWolf is very inclusive when he speaks to others while Vasquez always makes you feel like he's the smartest guy in the room. Vasquez also can easily get his back up and again, not a great quality for a member of a board. Since both of them would bring more diversity to the Board, it's an easy pick for DeWolf.I can say that Patu is not the best campaigner but that's okay because Patu was never in this work to be a politician. She's the common sense voice that you need on a board. She's the one who never really cares if she gets quoted but cares how many kids got some support and inspiration today. She knows this district as no other candidate does.Her opponent has barely registered in this campaign. Due to unfortunate family circumstances, she has not been at forums. (If she goes to this Saturday's forum sponsored by the NAACP and the League of Women Voters, let us know. I'm unable to attend.) However, below in my reporting, is what she said in her answers to a candidate forum questionnaire. I find many of them troubling. I don't believe she knows this district in any significant way.Last thing - I am sad that I am late to this news but I did want to point out thathave been hosting community meetings on various issues. Tonight's was about homelessness and SPS students. They did one on Special Education and one on racial inequity. This effort - to have conversations on challenging topics - when they could just be spending time trying to get elected shows commitment and integrity.As for last week's second Seattle School Board forum at Madrona Elementary, here what I saw and heard.Is she involved in education? Yes but I think most people would read her campaign website and think it was K-12 education. It's not. It's a group of tech schools for start-ups.On the topic of a new superintendent she says,What she means by "different board" is a good question - is that a different group of people than the current group or a different group based on how they think?She also makes a rather interesting statement about PTAs funding staff. Does she say the district should just flat-out - as other districts have done - refuse to allow PTAs to fund staff? Nope. She says:Does she have any idea how much money gets poured into this district from PTAs and how much it would take to find those kinds of "extra resources" for schools without PTA dollars? Also, why not just say, "Stop funding staff from PTA funds?"She also has some magical thinking on AP classes:She also puts out this statement about how she and her husband think of SPS:I find that statement jaw-dropping. I have never,heard any Board member with children in SPS - not Blanford, Harris, DeBell, Carr, Burke, you name it - say that they were worried about their own children being in SPS schools.She completely doesn't answer the question on charters:She basically uses the space to talk about the great things charters do and says there's nothing that charters are doing that SPS can't do.She also gets in a race-baiting jab which seems unnecessary while talking about charter schools (sayingWhy did she include that statement about white parents? The first part of the story - coming straight from the parent involved - is very likely true but how does she know the latter part was true? Not sure it was necessary but Byers seems very much with the vision that equity is the single item that will change outcomes in SPS.Continuing on she talks about how charters used "blended learning" and thatAnd none of that is happening in SPS? I may have my own issues with this district but the district has gone to an early release day this year - in every single school - for more professional development. The focus for the last couple of years on family engagement is larger than I have ever seen. Does she not know this?Wait, what?He just bragged at the Uptown Alliance forum just two days before how he "knew" Jenny Durkan and many people in the Department of Education and how he could hit the ground running if both he and Durkan won.And, if you line up DeWolf's career and Vasquez' career trajectories, it looks much more like Vasquez is the guy who was working to be a politician.Vasquez went from college to Teach for America (which he leaves off his campaign website) to teaching for six years (two of those his TFA service) to law school and then to one of the biggest law firms in Seattle. That path is very familiar to anyone who knows the TFA career path.DeWolf's path, thru Belize teaching Braille while in the Peace Corps, and then, working in underserved communities, is not one most politicians would take.(Vasquez does have a large amount of community services -absolutely- but to accuse DeWolf of grooming himself for political office is a stretch.)But it was at the end of the program where the rubber met the road.A teacher at Stevens said that she knew there were many Sped positions open in the district and for the 4th year in a row,(Correction from teacher:She said sometimes they had a sub - maybe even the same one for a couple of days -but some days they didn't. She said the workload was unreasonable and the supports were not there.The question was directed at Vasquez and DeWolf.Both seemed stunned and Vasquez said so. He said it was a rampant IDEA violation. But then he said to her,She shot back,He said,She wasn't having it.Vasquez:Teacher:DeWolf was able to chime in that he and Mack had just had a community conversation three weeks ago around Sped issues. He said they needed leadership to prioritize the program.The last question was from a reporter from the Capitol Hill News who asked Vasquez about deleted tweets about charter schools. There was a brief back and forth and then the program was at an end.I was gathering up my things when a man - who had previously asked me, with a smile, if I were a reporter and I told him I wrote a blog - came to me and said,I tried, multiple times, to explain to him how I had come to believe Vasquez was on a charter board but every single time he aggressively talked over me, saying(I will state that I made the error of calling him "young man" which incensed him and rightly so. I immediately apologized but he just kept coming at me.)I was about to give up when another man came forward and told the first man,The aggressive guy said okay and I explained that I had done my homework but if something changed, I was not aware of it (after I first view a campaign website, later I only check endorsements and also the PDC reports).Vasquez, who had been talking to the Capitol Hill reporter comes over and tells the aggressive guy - who apparently works on his campaign - to stop. I asked Vasquez about the charter board position and he waved me off, saying,I was stunned. I'm sure it is and I did a public disclosure request from the Washington State Charter Commission (via OSPI) to learn about it.However, if you were running for school board in a district where the school board had openly stated it did not want to authorize charter schools nor supported charter schools and you sat on a charter school board, wouldn't you stepped down when you filed?Seems the brightest course of action unless you wanted to hang on to that gig if the school board election didn't go your way. But then, if you were getting dinged for it, you quietly step down.But why wouldn't you announce it and let people know? Because you should have done that in the first place and now it looks...kind of calculated.I note that Mr. Vasquez had the grace to write to me and apologize for what happened:I appreciate and accept that apology. The latest, and likely bloodiest, harshest and most extreme blast of violent horror cinema from Latin America comes in the form of Lucio A. Rojas' Trauma. His latest film will have its world premiere at Morbido at the end of the month. Directed by Lucio A. Rojas, the film stars Catalina Martin, Daniel Antivilo, Macarena Carrere, Ximena del Solar, Felipe Rios, Dominga Bofill, Alejandro Trejo, Max Torres, Claudio Riveros and Eduardo Paxeco. It was produced by Luciano and Nico Onetti who have their own extreme horror offering What the Waters Left Behind playing at the festival as well. Fangoria debuted the NC-17 trailer yesterday. TRAUMA tells the brutal story of a group of women stalked and outraged by two men, whose evil proceeds from the dark past of Chile, in a film that has provoked great controversy among those who have seen it. TRAUMA digs in the dark past of the southernmost Latin country with the story of four young women which are attacked by a disturbed man and his son on a weekend trip. Fangoria also had a statement from Rojas which we feel is important to include here as well. TRAUMA is a raw movie tough, violent, and dramatic. Although by some of its elements it could get close to the exploitation cinema, we went quite further. Some villains which are not from the present, but other times of Chiles history. The content is extreme, visceral, strictly for people over 18. But it was the only way to tell a story of this sort. A friend of Screen Anarchy who is familiar with the film described it as such, "The film has a razor sharp political edge and condemnation of the chilean military that has never been so open and savage... I feel that in the landscape of extreme latin american genre cinema this film will mark a before and after". Yes, Trauma may prove to be one of the most controversial exteme horror offering in recent memory. Due to the NC-17 rating on the trailer and the extreme nature of the violence ("...tons of extreme violence, torture and rape scenes" as our friend would describe it) and sexual content in it we will follow Fangoria's example and will not be hosting the trailer in this article. If you feel so inclined please follow this link to the YouTube page . Fair warning, we are not making shit up, this is extreme LatAm horror at its peak. VVVNSFW. If you are currently a print subscriber but don't have an online account, select this option. You will need to use your 7 digit subscriber account number (with leading zeros) and your last name (in UPPERCASE). As we continue to hear stories of the dead and as some Northern Californian residents are slowly making their way back to where their homes once stood, some families are finding small pockets of joy as they reunite with the pets they thought they lost in last week's wildfires. ABC 7 reports on one especially heartwarming reunion, as Roland Hendel was reunited with his Great Pyrenees, Odin, who stayed behind to protect the family's eight rescue goats located on their property in unincorporated Sonoma County. Hendel recounted the tale to ABC 7, saying that as the Tubbs Fire bore down on his home, he felt forced to leave the dog behind with the goats. "He was determined to stay with the goats and I had to let him do it," he said. The dogs suffered only minor injuries, along with the eight goats accompanying them. ABC 7 also writes that as soon as they were reunited, Odin, his sister Tessa, and all the animals vanished once more from the property where the family was staying. Thanks to tips sent in after ABC 7 ran an earlier story about Odin, they were reunited once again on Saturday. Another dog, Bill, had to be left behind as his family, the Robinsons, fled Santa Rosa. But luckily, as ABC tells it, Bill was found by a police officer and taken to the Marin Humane Society. There, he was reunited with his family thanks to his microchip tracker. One of the Robinsons told ABC, "We thought he was so gone." CBS has details of another particularly heartwarming reunion: Izzy, a Bernese Mountain Dog, came bounding out of some rubble as Jack Weaver and his brother-in-law Patrick Widen searched for her so that his mother, Katherine Weaver, wouldn't have to. The Weavers believed Izzy to be dead, as she was left behind in the panicked evacuation that sent Katherine Weaver fleeing in her nightgown. The Facebook video of the reunion with Izzy, which you can watch below, has been watched 2.2 million times as of this writing. It's long, and shows Weaver walking up to the burnt-out remains of his family's home, periodically calling for Izzy. There's hardly anything left, but as the video comes to a close, Weaver spots Izzy, and calls out to her. He described the reunion to CBS 5, saying, "She was very happy to see us, Weaver said of Izzy, a 9-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog. Shes such a brave dog. She was panting a lot and clearly stressed. But she was not frantic or anything. Beckyjean Widen, who posted the video to Facebook, described a bit of the journey that her husband and brother-in-law went through to get to the property, as apparently they were stopped by authorities on their way up. She wrote: They were turned away by police officers, but if you know my brother Jack or husband Patrick...neither one likes to be told no. They ended up hiking just under 3 miles to my parent's property. According to KRON 4, a veterinarian believes Izzy survived because of her thick fur coat, which could have insulated her from the fire's intense heat. Laughing Squid also spotted this video from The Guardian, which shows Izzy doing just fine, as she's been showered in love and good pets since she was found. All previous coverage of the Northern California Wildfires on SFist. After more than a week the the Northern California wildfires are finally beginning to approach containment. As officials continue to search for the missing and survivors return to what's left of their homes, we're just beginning to comprehend the massive devastation the blazes have wrought. It's times like these that we have to cling to what author Raymond Carver referred to as the small good things the little flashes of hope in what's otherwise a tragic world. For me, many of those small good things are animals. The same seems to be true of many of the victims (both still with us and not) think of the number of times you've read in the past week about folks who packed the pets in the car as they fled the flames, or pups like Odin and Izzy who were happily reunited with their families. So here are some more small good animal stories we've heard during these terrible fires. Spoiler alert: In each one of these tales, the beasts survive. Miracle puppies, born the night fires broke out, found in field near devastated Coffey Park https://t.co/eQ6gsJboHM Tara Duggan (@taraduggan) October 14, 2017 Santa Rosa resident Linda Hamik has been trying to catch this chubby stray chihuahua for months, and when she was evacuated (twice) the dog remained on her mind. When she was able to return home, she tells SF Gate, she found that the dog had miraculously survived though it was only about a mile from Coffey Park, one of the worst-ravaged areas. Not only that, but around the time the fire broke out Sunday night, the chihuahua was giving birth to six puppies. Hamik's taken the whole family into her garage for fostering until they can be scooped up by an area animal rescue org. There are a lot of great, happy cat stories out there! Milo, seen in the video above, was rescued from beneath a car by a Sonoma County Sheriff's Deputy. KTVU reports that Ed Ratliff (Milo's guardian) says the cat ran off during the rush to evacuate. The resulting fire took Ratliff's home and all his possessions, but other than a bit of dehydration, Milo's fine and back with his family. Meanwhile, ABC 7 reports, a PG&E worker tasked with fixing Santa Rosa's power lines is operating a side project rescuing cats. So far, she's "reunited two with their families and has taken one to the vet," they report. Kids with Napa's Vintage High School FFA have also gone into the rescue game, "heading out into the night to rescue livestock in harm's way," ABC 7 reports. The kids picked up 250 horses, goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, and chickens and are caring for them at the school's farm until they can be reclaimed by their guardians. Though the some of the beasts suffered "smoke inhalation and stress," they're all expected to recover. STL 2255A SFFD E37's E.Thomas, J.Bautista find chickens that survived the fire & and were in need of food and water. They are now safe pic.twitter.com/rkhSYIMCLm San Francisco Fire (@sffdpio) October 16, 2017 I don't have any backstory here, but I appreciate the firefighter's knife technique. The fire approached Paul and Drusilla Robinson's Santa Rosa home so swiftly that even though they searched for their dog Bill, they had to leave him behind. They were sure he had died, a Marin Humane spokesperson told the SF Gate. According to NBC Bay Area, a "police officer found Bill in a field, shaking with fear as fire and smoke surrounded him." Bill's collar showed his home address, but the residence has been consumed by flames. The folks at Marin Humane managed to track the Robinsons down and they reunited with Bill this weekend. Napa County Animal Control worked with vets from Napa Valley Equine to save this "85 year old, 200 lb tortoise" as the fire approached. They say via Facebook that "it took 4 people to lift it up into a wheel barrow so they could get it off the property, which had limited road access." The rescue is "a unique highlight," they say, "during such somber times." Related: Hero Dog Who Stuck With Rescue Goats During Wildfire Reunited With Family The fatal shooting of an Oakland man Saturday continues San Francisco's trend towards a higher homicide count than in many recent years. According to the San Francisco Police Department, officers were called to the 200 block of Blythdale Avenue at 11:54 p.m. Saturday, on reports of a shooting. That address is inside San Francisco's Sunnydale-Velasco housing project. Described in a 2008 SF Chronicle report as a "Crumbling neighborhood, cut off from rest of the city, [that] offers few avenues of escape," it's SF's largest public housing complex. When officers arrived, they discovered a 52-year-old male who had been shot by an "unknown" male suspect. The shooting victim, who the San Francisco Medical Examiner's Office has identified as 52-year-old Oakland resident Dwayne Leblanc, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police do not presently have any additional information on suspects or a motive in the slaying, but confirmed that the suspect or suspects remain at large and no arrests have been made in the case. Leblanc's death is San Francisco's 52nd homicide for 2017, an SFPD spokesperson confirms. It follows last week's fatal shooting at the Potrero housing development, another public housing project in the city. For comparison, SF ended 2016 with 59 homicides, there were 53 in 2015, 45 in 2014, 48 in 2013, 68 in 2012, and 50 in 2011. Previously: Overnight Shooting Sends San Francisco's Homicide Count To 51 For 2017 Firefighters are battling a 125 acre fire off Bear Creek Rd, SW of San Jose (San Mateo Co). #BearFire Evacs in place https://t.co/p4pDI6YQyb pic.twitter.com/zPMdCHL7Wh CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) October 17, 2017 A new wildfire broke out over night in the Santa Cruz Mountains in the vicinity of Bear Creek Canyon Road, and it's been named the Bear Fire. It quickly grew to 125 acres after sparking around 10:30 p.m. Monday as a structure fire, spreading to the wilderness around it, as ABC 7 reports, and prompting a door-to-door evacuation effort early Tuesday morning that includes the roads listed below. NBC Bay Area has several photos of towering flames overtaking the dense forest in the area. MORE: Evacuations taking place in several areas of Santa Cruz Mountains for #BearFire https://t.co/nOmmTNvoPB pic.twitter.com/g0e9SlXrgP ABC7 News (@abc7newsbayarea) October 17, 2017 Fire fighters discuss flames in Santa Cruz Mountians. 125 acres burning with a moderate spread. Evac orders in place. pic.twitter.com/lW447k4exv sandra osborne (@SandraOsborneTV) October 17, 2017 CBS 5 reports that 30 fire crews have responded to the area already, but Assistant Cal Fire Chief Rob Sherman tells the station that they are having "access issues" to some very rugged and steep terrain. One firefighter was injured Monday night in the battle, as NBC Bay Area tells us, injuring a wrist and suffering facial lacerations after falling into a ravine. And now the Chronicle reports that a total of five firefighters have been injured as of Tuesday morning, with "at least four homes" already destroyed. As of 9 a.m., the fire had been 5 percent contained.* More on this fire as we learn it, and as crews continue to contain fires across the North Bay. Fire spreading by climbing valley walls now, lack of wind means chimney effect only influence. Light winds later today. #BearFire pic.twitter.com/bJiz6TYmaY Mike Nicco (@MikeNiccoABC7) October 17, 2017 * This post has been updated to include new information about injuries and homes destroyed. As fire crews continue to battle several wildfires in Northern California, the East Bay begins to make plans for a potential firestorm that, according to one UC Berkeley assistant professor, is very overdue. The Daily Cal spoke with UC Berkeley College of Environmental Design associate professor John Radke, who told them that it's "very, very, very probable" that the East Bay may experience a large wildfire sometime soon. His reasoning is that the East Bay shares much of the same vegetation as Sonoma County, and that high temperatures are common for both areas. The National Weather Service seemed to concur, as Curbed SF pointed out that they issued two "red flag" warnings for the East Bay, warning officials and residents that conditions were ripe for a potential wildfire outbreak. This warning was issued after strong gusts of winds began to blow down from the North Bay. The forecast also called for low humidity which helps wildfires to spread faster. The East Bay is likely to see some relief in that regard, as rain is expected late Wednesday night and early Thursday morning though that may end up concentrated in the North Bay. The amount of rainfall may be small, but any added moisture will help increase humidity, thus inhibiting fire spread. One of the areas included in a red flag warning, the Oakland Hills, suffered its own major wildfire back in 1991. The Tunnel Fire burned over an entire weekend, claiming 25 lives, injuring 150, and destroying a combined 3,280 single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums in Berkeley and Oakland. Since then, Berkeley has been working to implement as many safety checks and preventative measures as possible to ensure that the city doesn't experience another Tunnel Fire. The Daily Cal also touched on this, speaking with Susan Piper, chair of the Oakland Firesafe Council, and Oakland Hills Fire survivor. Piper told them, "There are inspections once a year but youre responsible for maintaining that space every day of the year. We were inspected back in June, but stuff grows. You have to go out and maintain it." Related: 25 Years Ago Today The Oakland Hills Went Up In Flames Very, Very Fast #OakmontFire [update] E side of Hwy 12 near Oakmont community (Sonoma County) is now 1,029 acres and 27% contained. https://t.co/rJdgLud5km pic.twitter.com/C8SZ8T6ePd CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) October 17, 2017 More progress to report this morning as fire crews work tirelessly around the clock to contain the wildfires still raging on in Northern California. As of Tuesday morning, the Tubbs Fire stands at 36,432 acres consumed and 82% containment, a significant improvement over its 70% containment from yesterday morning. The Nuns Fire, now composed of five different fires (Nuns, Adobe, Norbbom, Pressley, Partrick), stands as the largest of the Northern California fires, having consumed 52,894 acres thus far, and is 68% contained, per Cal Fire. The Central LNU Complex (Tubbs, Pocket, Sonoma Nuns, Napa Nuns, Oakmont Fires) incident report says that Cal Fire expects full containment of the fires by this Friday, October 20th and that is great news given that fires in recent seasons have sometimes taken well over two weeks to contain. Statewide Wildland Fires Map for Tuesday, October 17, 2017 pic.twitter.com/rsycuvgMOM Cal OES (@Cal_OES) October 17, 2017 While containment numbers are on the rise, evacuation numbers have begun to drop. As the Associated Press reports, the number of evacuees has dropped to 34,000, just over a third of the estimated 100,000 or so from Saturday. They go on to report that the death toll remains at 41, and that 5,700 homes have been destroyed. PG&E continues to search for answers as to what may have been the initial ignition point for the fire, and they've made some progress with that investigation, reports NBC Bay Area. According to them, PG&E discovered eight different electrical equipment failures in the wildfires. They issued a statement late yesterday which reads, in part: "Since Sundays windstorm, the company has submitted eight electric incident reports related to damaged facilities to the CPUC." They also stress that they will support and assist with the review of these wildfires by the appropriate regulatory agencies." Beyond that, as we reported this morning, a new fire broke out Monday night in the Santa Cruz mountains, prompting door-to-door evacuations. That fire has consumed about 125 acres thus far. According to the Chron's live update, a man was arrested for looting a Rincon Valley group home in Santa Rosa. Douglas James Rosado, 49, was caught trying to loot the closed group home, and sped off as police made their way there. Authorities were able capture his license plate, however, and a later search of his home turned up a washer, dryer, ShopVac, and two flat-screen televisions. SFGate reports that Fairfield's "Glass House," completed in 2005 by architect Helena Arahuete, was destroyed as the Atlas Fire moved through the area, leaving behind nothing but the concrete foundation and a few columns standing. NBC Bay Area's Jodi Hernandez shared a video of what remains of the home in a tweet: Solano County's iconic "glass house" destroyed in #AtlasFire. The owner says he will rebuild. pic.twitter.com/2bhPiiJ61c Jodi Hernandez (@JodiHernandezTV) October 13, 2017 One artist is choosing to process the loss of his home in Santa Rosa by drawing a few comics describing his return to where his home once stood. CBS spoke with Brian Fies, an Eisner award-winning comic artist, who told them that upon sneaking back into his neighborhood, "The only things I saw standing were the steel frames of garage doors and fireplaces and chimneys. Thats all I saw left." He went on to say, "Its cathartic. It gives me a sense of control over something I dont have any control over." Fies' series of comics, titled A Fire Story, can be found on his website. All previous coverage of the Northern California Wildfires on SFist. 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Sioux City Police received a report shortly before 4:20 p.m. that a small compact car had driven into the Missouri River near the 200 block of Larsen Park Road in Sioux City, according to a news release. Police, Sioux City Fire Rescue, the Marine Emergency Response Team, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and South Sioux City Police Department responded to the scene and searched for the vehicle and possible occupants. The search was suspended for the day around 8 p.m. due to darkness. Sioux City Fire Rescue Capt. Dave Ahlers said authorities were unsure whether a person or people were inside the car. "We were treating (the rescue) as though someone was, but we don't know for sure," he said. The release said witnesses told authorities they saw a small brown vehicle floating in the river before it submerged. The investigation is ongoing. STORM LAKE, Iowa | A Storm Lake man was arrested late Monday after making false calls and sending text messages to 911 to report an armed man at the Tyson Foods pork plant in Storm Lake. Sergio Quintero, 29, was arrested on three counts of making false reports to communications entities, a serious misdemeanor. According to the Storm Lake Police Department, officers were dispatched to the Tyson plant at 10:58 p.m. concerning an anonymous call to 911 about a person at the plant who was wearing a Raiders jacket and was armed with a gun. While searching the plant, officers observed Quintero, who was wearing a Raiders sweatshirt. Police found no guns on him. A short time later, the Communication Center received two text messages from the same untraceable number that made the 911 call. One message stated "he has a gun" and the second message said, "Sergio." Police again searched the plant and recontacted Quintero. During a search, two cellphones, but no guns, were found on Quintero. Investigators were able to determine that one of the phones in Quintero's possession matched the number called into the Communication Center, and Quintero was arrested. Todays top picks from our online calendar. Find more events at siouxcityjournal.com/calendar. 'Color Blind' A public forum at the Sioux City Public Museum, 607 Fourth St., will address concerns regarding the rise of racism and hate crimes nationwide 6 to 8 p.m. A group of panelists will address questions and provide information to keep our Siouxland community in a preventative and proactive manner. The public is welcome to ask questions and state concerns. Call 712-574-1745 for more information. Camera Club Exhibition Annual exhibition of theme-based photographs by members of the Sioux City Camera Club is now on display at Sioux City Art Center, 225 Nebraska St. Photographers found inspiration from the rivers in our region and beyond. Visit www.siouxcityartcenter.org or call 712-279-6272 for more information. USD History Schell Lecture The University of South Dakota hosts Brian D. Bunk for the annual Department of History Schell Lecture at 7 p.m. in Farber Hall, Old Main in Vermillion, South Dakota. The lecture is free and open to the public. Bunk will present a lecture entitled A Copy of Spain: Spanish Immigrants in the United States and the Challenges of Assimilation. Visit www.usd.edu for more information. DAKOTA CITY | With a big celebration underway for Nebraska's 150th anniversary of statehood, Shirley Knight decided to go big with her painting hobby, too. She's spent years painting feathers, saw blades, wine bottles, jar lids and other small objects. After going to Ponca, Nebraska, with a friend to view a barn quilt display in that community, Knight began thinking bigger. "That just really got me because every one of them was different," Knight said of the barn quilts she observed in Ponca. Knight and her friend decided each one would paint a barn quilt of their own. Her friend chose a more traditional geometric pattern like those commonly seen on farmsteads and houses in communities across Siouxland. Knight wasn't sure which direction she wanted to go. "I just kept doodling in my mind," she said. While looking through a book on Lewis and Clark, Knight began to find some inspiration. When her daughter began talking about the historic files she had been looking through for Nebraska's 150th anniversary celebration, the idea for a sesquicentennial-themed barn quilt was born. It made sense, she said, to include a picture of a family in a covered wagon in front of Chimney Rock, a natural landmark that served as a guidepost for westbound settlers passing through Nebraska. From her book, Knight was attracted to a picture of the buffalo that once roamed the Nebraska plains. She chose to include a Native American on a horse overlooking them. And finally she added pictures of Lewis and Clark and their Native American guide, Sacajawea. In the center, she painted two feathers, a symbol that has become a signature on her art. It was a challenging idea to paint onto a 4-foot-by-4-foot sheet of plywood. She couldn't just lay down a pattern and trace it. All the work was done freehand, leading to some trial-and-error and repainting over a few mistakes along the way. "I haven't had art lessons in my life, maybe that would have helped," Knight said with a shrug and a laugh. She didn't count the hours the project consumed, but she often made three daily trips to her garage to paint, stopping each painting session when her lower back began to ache from bending over the plywood. Despite the aches and mistakes, she found the project inspiring. "I enjoyed it. When I go out there and paint the Indian on the horse looking over the buffalo, it just kind of came alive to me," she said. After a month, Knight was finished and had the quilt hung on the fence near the gravel road that passes by her house on Crystal Lake. For the past month, passersby have pulled into her driveway for a closer look at the unique barn quilt. Some have even made offers to buy it. "I'm going to hang on to it for a while, simply because I've got love in that picture," Knight said. "I go out there and admire it when I go out to the mailbox and when I take the trash out to the road. "It's unique. They'd probably even say I was a little looney to tackle something like that." It's was Knight's first barn quilt, and most likely her last. "It was a big task," she said. A state's sesquicentennial is a once-in-a-lifetime event. It seems fitting that Knight's undertaking was also one of a kind. 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. AKC Thomas Lee Cyrus, Sr., USN (Ret.) 79, of Mechanicsville, MD passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. He was born in Ray, OH on September 12, 1938 to the late Eldon Ulysses and Ethel (Rader) Cyrus. On July 28, 1961, Thomas married his beloved wife, Kiyoka Cyrus in Fukuoka, Japan who preceded him in death on March 29, 2002. Thomas is survived by his children; Teresa L. Emmart (Thomas) of Mechanicsville, MD and Thomas L. Cyrus, Jr. of St. Inigoes, MD; his grandchildren, Natalie Paige and Meredith Brooke Emmart. In addition to his parents and wife, he is also preceded in death by his brothers, William Lacy Cyrus Sr. and Marvin Cyrus. In June 1956, Thomas enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country until his retirement in October 1974 as a Chief Aviation Storekeeper. During his service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal (5), the National Defense Medal (2) (1 star). After retiring, he continued his employment with the federal government as a supply management specialist and retired after many years of dedicated service. During his younger days, he was a long time member of a band in which he enjoyed playing the electric guitar and singing. His greatest love was for his family, whom he enjoyed spending all his free time with especially his granddaughters. A Graveside Service will be celebrated later at Arlington National Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association National Capital Area Chapter. Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A. If you read the Daily Beast youd get the impression gay Trump supporters are having regrets, with their recent article: Trumps Gay Backers No Longer See Him as the Great Straight Hope. But if you read Buzzfeed youll come to the opposite conclusion with their article Here's How Gay Republicans Are Brushing Off Trump's Latest Anti-LGBT Attacks. So whos right? Probably both. LGBT conservatives have long had to walk a very fine line when it comes to elected Republicans. Attack too much and theyll be entirely dismissed by Republicans. But dont attack enough, and theyll be seen as being complicit when it comes to the anti-gay policies and positions many in the Republican Party hold. Pick your battles takes on a whole new meaning for them in the Trump era. According to the Daily Beast, Chris Barron, a longtime conservative gay-rights activist, still believes in Trump, but not the people hes put in charge of his agencies. My concern has always been what happens at the department and agency levels. And I definitely have concerns with what is going on at Department of Justice, the article reads. Barron is also the founder of the LGBTers for Trump group. Buzzfeed interviewed Barron as well, where he makes similar statements. Buzzfeed also interviews Lucian Wintrich, who ran a project called Twinks for Trump and now writes for the far right website Gateway Pundit. The war on the LGBT community is just as fictitious as all of the phantom Nazis that seem to haunt your dreams, he told BuzzFeed. The media is overhyping it. But according to the Daily Beast, another gay conservative, Jimmy LaSalvia, is having second thoughts about Trump. I never thought that Donald Trump was an anti-gay homophobe. I certainly didnt think that when I met him back in 2011. But weve all learned a lot about who he really is since then. With his political pandering and posturing to endear himself to the intolerant wing of the GOP over the last few years, it doesnt surprise me that this administration will go down as the most anti-LGBT in history. LaSalvia is the co-founder of the now defunct group, GOProud. According to Buzzfeed, Gregory T. Angelo, who runs the Log Cabin Republicans, earlier this year called Trump a real friend. Buzzfeed quotes Angelo as saying I am all for calling out Republicans when they do anti-gay things. In fact, its my job." Despite that statement though the Trump administration has issued many anti-LGBT decisions including the now infamous transgender military ban. Angelo now tells Buzzfeed: "I can't tell you anything has changed since spring. I believe we largely are where we were at the beginning of the president's term." Peter Boykin, whos in charge of Gays for Trump, according to Buzzfeed, also still support his man. And even supports Attorney General Jeff Sessions. I met Jeff Sessions, and I dont think hes a transphobe or anti-gay. But I still think that Jeff Sessions in a pinch will support us. It is a pro-LGBT administration. Boykin, like many other gay conservatives, have individual positions on specific LGBT issues. Boykin doesnt support the administration defending a Colorado baker who refused to bake a cake for a gay wedding. But to some extent does support Trumps transgender military ban. Whereas Wintrich does support defending that baker because The administration is sending power back to the free market. Locally the gay Republican reaction to Trump is about the same all over the place. When Trump didnt proclaim June as Pride Month, Vincent Foster, president of the Miami-Dade Log Cabin Republicans, pivoted from Trump to Pride saying the events were just acts and overt displays of sexual indulgence with people tossing condoms and lube out and men in assless chaps. He continued: Its debauchery. It really makes our community look terrible. I dont think that its significant at all that President Trump did not recognize Pride Month. As a gay conservative, I think Pride does more damage to our community than anything positive. It does nothing to promote our rights. While Andy Eddy, a founding member of the Broward Log Cabin Republican Club, said he would have liked Trump to have celebrated Pride, but wasnt terribly upset. SFGN also polled local Republicans on their reaction to Roy Moore, an openly anti-gay Republican, winning the Alabama Republican primary. Foster proclaimed: I definitely would have voted for him if I were a resident of Alabama. But Former Republican Congressman Mark Foley, who now lives in Palm Beach County, took a harder line against Moores position saying, It troubles me when any human being who claims to believe in a just and Christian nation can make such ugly and disparaging remarks about any living soul. As a gay man, its abhorrent to me that in 2017 such comments would still be made. It alarms me that people would applaud his rhetoric. While Eddy walks a finer line saying The problem is that some of his issues are a little too far to the right. [Supporting] conversion therapy, things like that. I dont think hes going to represent all the people. He didnt support gays in the military so why would I support him? (EDGE) Peter Thiel, the billionaire cofounder of PayPal and vocal supporter of President Donald Trump, secretly tied the knot over the weekend, according to a report from Axios. Thiel married his longtime partner Matt Danzeisen, a portfolio manager at Thiel Capital, in Vienna. Even the ceremony's guests were surprised they were attending a wedding. Axios reports attendees were under the impression they were celebrating Thiel's 50th birthday. According to Silicon Beat, thee's "little known about" Danzeisen beyond his position. During the 2016 presidential campaign, Thiel was one of the few figures in Silicon Valley to offer his support for Trump, having reportedly donated $1.25 million to his campaign. There were also reports he was on Trump's shortlist to be appointed to the Supreme Court (that didn't pan out) and that he joined Trump's transition team. Since Trump took office, Thiel has been less vocal of the president. In January, he told The New York Times he wasn't worried about the Trump administration rolling back equal rights for LGBTQ people. "I think Trump is very good on gay rights," the businessman said at the time. "I don't think he will reverse anything. I would obviously be concerned if I thought otherwise." He also said he wasn't worried about about Vice President Mike Pence's lengthy anti-LGBTQ history. "You know, maybe I should be worried but I'm not that worried about it," he added. "I don't know. People know too many gay people. There are just all these ways I think stuff has just shifted." (EDGE) A building owned by a gay couple from South Carolina was burned to the ground last week and the men are calling the incident a hate crime. Tim Griffin and his partner Neil Griffin, from Pageland, S.C., woke up at 2 a.m. Friday morning when they smelled fire and smoke. But by the time the fire department arrived, "the building was 80%, 90% gone," Tim Griffin told local news station WSOC-TV. The newly built 3,000-square-foot building was going to host the Miss Pageland Pageant beauty contest. "It went down just like that," he added. The men also said they lost all their pageant supplies, records and about 1,000 gowns they were storing. The couple also said they believe the fire was motivated by hate. The men explained they have recently received violent threats on social media. "This town is dealing with a lot of hate right now," Tim Griffin said. "This has just got to stop." Pageland town officials confirmed to WSCO-TV that the couple requested law enforcement to investigate the online threats. Pageland Police Chief Craig Greenlee said law officials have labeled the fire suspicious but not a hate crime. Officials have yet released a cause of the fire. Tim Griffin said the fire was suspicious as the building did not yet have electricity, adding there was only one car parked outside the building and that there was nothing combustable stored inside. "We can't take it anymore, emotionally and physically," Tim Griffin told WSCO-TV. "We'll go. We're done." The building was going to be used for the annual Miss Pageland pageants, which would have served as a rehearsal space and a place for local kids to hang out. The men planned to have a pool table and a movie screen in the space. New Now Next reports the Griffins apparently have issues with a few of Pageland's leaders. Tim Griffin has made several posts on Facebook since the fire. In one post, he accuses councilwoman Elaine Robertson and her family of "posting comments about harming us, shooting us, running us out of town -- calling us fags, child molesters, child-porn distributors, threatening Neil's job and on and on." He added that after reporting the threats to authorities, "they did nothing." The couple have, however, thanked local police and many other in their community for their support. Find Tim's posts below. Watch WSOC-TV's report on the incident below. Saturn and its rings NASA NASAs Cassini spacecraft ended its journey on Sept. 15 with an intentional plunge into the atmosphere of Saturn, but analysis continues on the mountain of data the spacecraft sent during its long life. Some of the Cassini teams freshest insights were presented during a news conference today at the American Astronomical Society Division for Planetary Science meeting in Provo, Utah. Among the findings being shared: Views from Cassinis Grand Finale show the beauty of the rings and demonstrate processes similar to those that form planets. During Cassinis final months, the spacecrafts cameras captured views from within the gap between the planet and the rings, and the mission is releasing two new image mosaics showing the rings from that unique perspective. One view, from May 28, 2017, shows the rings emerging from behind the planets hazy limb, while the planet itself is adorned with ring shadows. The other mosaic shows a panoramic view outward across the ringscape. In addition, Cassini participating scientist and imaging team associate Matt Tiscareno of SETI Institute, Mountain View, California, provided new details about the whimsically named ring features called propellers, which are wakes in the rings created by small, unseen moonlets. The propellers are analogous to baby planets forming in disks around young stars, as they obey similar physical processes. Tiscareno said that, in its last images of the rings (taken the day before the spacecrafts plunge into Saturn), Cassini successfully imaged all six of the propellers whose orbits were being tracked over the last several years of the mission. These objects are named for famous aviators: Bleriot, Earhart, Santos-Dumont, Sikorsky, Post and Quimby. During its Ring-Grazing Orbits the four months of close orbits that preceeded the missions Grand Finale Cassini obtained images showing swarms of smaller propellers, astounding Tiscareno and colleagues. Cassinis electronic nose hit the jackpot, finding many surprises as it sniffed the gases in the previously unexplored space between the planet and the rings. The spacecrafts Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer (INMS) returned a host of first-ever direct measurements of the components in Saturns upper atmosphere, which stretches almost to the rings. From these observations, the team sees evidence that molecules from the rings are raining down onto the atmosphere. This influx of material from the rings was expected, but INMS data show hints of ingredients more complex than just water, which makes up the bulk of the rings composition. In particular, the instrument detected methane, a volatile molecule that scientists would not expect to be abundant in the rings or found so high in Saturns atmosphere. Cassini participating scientist and INMS team associate Mark Perry from the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, says the team is busy analyzing data from the final, lowest-altitude passes, which show even more complexity and variability. The INMS observations complement those by Cassinis Cosmic Dust Analyzer instrument, which sampled solid particles in the gap during the Grand Finale. Researchers continue trying to wrangle insights about the length of the planets day from measurements of Saturns magnetic field. Michele Dougherty, leader of Cassinis Magnetometer team from Imperial College London, provided an update on the teams progress in trying to determine whether Saturns magnetic field has a detectable tilt. One aim of their work is to determine the precise length of time for the planets internal rotation, which would help researchers nail down the true length of the planets day. Dougherty says the sensitivity of Cassinis magnetic field measurements nearly quadrupled over the course of the spacecrafts 22 Grand Finale orbits meaning that, if the tilt of Saturns field is greater than 0.016 degrees, researchers should be able to detect it. An extremely small tilt is challenging to explain with scientists current understanding of how planetary magnetic fields are generated, thus suggesting more sophisticated dynamics inside Saturn. New theoretical research explains the forces that keep Saturns rings from spreading out and dispersing. It turns out to be a group effort. Key among the questions scientists hope to answer using data from Cassini are the age and origins of the rings. Theoretical modeling has shown that, without forces to confine them, the rings would spread out over hundreds of millions of years much younger than Saturn itself. This spreading happens because faster-moving particles that orbit closer to Saturn occasionally collide with slower particles on slightly farther-out orbits. When this happens, some momentum from the faster particles is transferred to the slower particles, speeding the latter up in their orbit and causing them to move farther outward. The inverse happens to the faster, inner particles. Previous research had shown that gravitational tugs from the moon Mimas are solely responsible for halting the outward spread of Saturns B ring that rings outer edge is defined by the dark region known as the Cassini Division. Ring scientists had thought the small moon Janus was responsible for confining the outer edge of the A ring. But a new modeling study led by Radwan Tajeddine of Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, shows that the A rings outward creep is kept in check by a confederation of moons, including Pan, Atlas, Prometheus, Pandora, Janus, Epimetheus and Mimas. The insight was made possible by Cassini, which provided scientists with high-resolution views of intricate waves in the rings, along with precise determinations of the masses of Saturns moons. Analysis of these data led Tajeddine and colleagues to an understanding that a cumulative effect of waves from all these moons damps the outward transfer of momentum in the A ring and confines its edge. Tajeddine will present these results in a poster at the DPS meeting, and they will be published Wednesday in the Astrophysical Journal. There are whole careers to be forged in the analysis of data from Cassini, said Linda Spilker, the missions project scientist at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California. In a sense, the work has only just begun. The Cassini-Huygens mission is a cooperative project of NASA, ESA (European Space Agency) and the Italian Space Agency. NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a division of Caltech in Pasadena, manages the mission for NASAs Science Mission Directorate, Washington. JPL designed, developed and assembled the Cassini orbiter. Harness racings greatest traveling road show, the CKG Billings Amateur Driving Series, employed plenty of action on Sunday, October 15 when the granddaddy of all amateur racing organizations had contests at two different racetracks, one in the U.S.A. at Northfield Park in greater Cleveland, Ohio and the other in Canada at Flamboro Downs in Dundas, Ont. Tiny Tim Miller won the Midwest region Northfield trot with Song In My Heart while Gentle Ben Hollingsworth copped the Canadian event - a pace - behind with Michelles Deuce over Flamboros double oval. In his event Miller took no prisoners and sent his trotter down the road from the four-hole and made every pole a winning one en route to a solid 1-1/2 length triumph over Kelly Sky Walkers Stemilt Touch. Patricia the Write Stuff Miller took home the show dough with 45-1 shot, Keep The Cash. The winner, owned by Bert Hershberger and trained by JD Wengerd, was sent off the 6-5 favourite and returned a $4.40 win mutuel. For hot-handed Miller it was his fifth driving victory in just 10 seasonal starts. In the Canadian Billings pace later Sunday evening Gentle Ben had the prohibitive favourite Michelles Deuce and drove like one is supposed to when deemed the best in the filed and rushed the eight-year-old Armbro Deuce mare to the lead and remained unchallenged throughout coasting to an easy 1:59.1 triumph to notch the mares sixth seasonal victory. The battle for second money saw Steve Youre Never Too Oldford and No Teasing Me out-foot Thrift Shop with David Poppa Glasser to the wire to garner the place dough. Owned by the Link Stable and trained by Corey Johnson, Michelles Deuce paid $3.50 for win. It was Hollingsworths first seasonal driving victory(from just 4 starts) and 21st of his limited career. Billings action continues on Monday night with two trots on the card at Mohawk Racetrack in Campbellville, Ont. (CKG Billings Amateur Driving Series) The inaugural London Selected Yearling Sale was the talk of the Ontario Standardbred scene this past weekend, as strong gross sales and a better than expected average made the endeavour a success. Trot Insider has reached out to consignors for their feedback, and to say that they are happy is an understatement. Mohawk Seelster fetched the highest price during the two-day sale. Mohawk Seelster sold for $220,000 to Millar Farms of Stouffville, Ont. A son of Sportswriter - Macapelo Rose, Mohawk Seelster is a half-brother to speedy pacing mare Mayhem Seelster p, 2, 1:53s, 3, 1:51.3s -'16 ($392,395). Overall, 306 yearlings passed through the sales ring at the inaugural London Selected Yearling Sale. Gross sales surpassed $7.5 million at $7,536,000, providing a sale average of $24,627. For a recap of Day 1, click here. To view the full results from the first session, click here. For a recap of Day 2, click here. To view results from the second session, click here. Like many of the consignors that have worked tirelessly to get yearlings to the sales ring, Tammy McNiven and her Twinbrook Farm crew were more than busy throughout the weekend. The sale was great, McNiven said. The Twinbrook team was very busy over each of the three days. I would have to look back 20 years to see a Canadian sale which was that strong and that busy. There was buzz and excitement right from the word go. One of the palpable aspects of the sale was the positivity that was there. Everyone was upbeat and excited. The atmosphere was tremendous and there truly was a buzz in the air. It was a very confident atmosphere and we were very pleased. While speaking with Trot Insider, McNiven stressed that it is imperative that the provincial government fully grasps what the success of the inaugural London Selected Yearling Sale means for the industry. The sale went off very well. It was encouraging to see the confidence in the Ontario product again, said Twinbrook Farms Tammy McNiven. The people that showed up were there to buy there were no tire kickers. Hopefully the government is fully aware of how well the sale did, and hopefully that recognition will be further realized when it comes to the Ontario Sires Stakes purses going forward. There was a really good crowd at the sale and I was happy with the trainers and the buyers that were there, consignor Craig Turner told Trot Insider. The atmosphere was notably positive, which was really great to see. The consignors that were there did pretty well, overall, which was also really great to see. It was an excellent sale the numbers speak for themselves, said consignor Jim Laird of the Icy Stable. The crowds were big and it was nice to see all the buyers in there competing for some great stock, said Laird. There was good energy, excitement and competition. Like many, Laird conveyed that he was thrilled with the results both he and his consignment were able to get from the inaugural London Selected Yearling Sale. We did really well, said Laird. My clients sent me excellent individuals and the sale results reflected the quality. Im happy. For a more detailed breakdown of the sale results, click on one of the following links: Susan Johnson of Waterdown, Ont., just became involved in harness horse ownership thanks to the Win A Share in A Racehorse promotion sponsored by the Ontario Sires Stakes in conjunction with the London Selected Yearling Sale. I had never been to any horse racing event until September 2016. I found it to be very interesting. The horses are beautiful and of course because I did not know anything about racing I chose horses I thought would win by their names. That of course did not work out too well. I now know a bit more but have lots to learn, explained Johnson, who works in the health care sector for the provincial government. Johnson received a ballot for the contest at the September 23rd New Owner Seminar at Mohawk Racetrack which she attended with a friend, Dave Pawlik, who had taken part in the SBOAs Mentoring group but had not owned any horses since the time hed met Johnson. He was thinking about getting involved again and decided to attend the seminar and Susan went along with him. Johnson attends the races about twice a month, and visits Mohawk or Flamboro. I am really excited to win this prize! Its funny because last night before I went to bed I thought to myself, Susan you probably own a race horse today - and today...I do at least own a part of one. I am excited to take my grandchildren to see the horses as they love animals! Johnsons ballot was drawn from all of the entries in the contest and has won a share ($2,000 value) in LandMark 11 Stable which has partial ownership in three Ontario-sired yearlings including Parlay Seelster, a Mach Three colt purchased on the Sunday session of the London Selected Yearling Sale. LandMark 11 Stable also includes the Royalty For Life filly, Love For Life, and a Sunshine Beach colt, Dare To Share. Both of these yearlings were purchased in Kentucky. Veteran harness horseman Ken Wood, of Denton, Md., who for more than a decade has been drilling wells for the poor West African nation of Ghana and since expanded to Tanzania, has added pioneering of another humanitarian effort - bringing sight to natives. With his son Ben, Ken Wood operates Lifetime Wells Drilling Company, a highly respected well-drilling company, located on Marylands Eastern Shore, not far from Delaware. Wood is currently on his 46th trip to the West African where he has dug and installed more than 1,850 wells for giving drinking water to many thousands of native residents. Before Wood and his Lifetime Wells Drilling Company arrived, residents had to walk five or six miles to reach often contaminated water. Prior to Woods arrival, about 15 per cent of the countrys children died from contaminated drinking water. Ghana has the highest rate of disease caused by contaminated drinking water. Woods on-going project costs $2,000 a day to keep the wells going. Add Sight Recently, Wood and a nearby Easton, Md. resident, Kevin White, who founded Global Vision 2020, have teamed to provide 150 special pairs of unique prescription eyeglasses to the needy, on his most recent trip to Ghana. Wood and White, met at an environmental day event showcasing what people are doing to change the world. Whites innovative company has created a vision kit, which consists of his USee diagnostic tool, twin progressive lenses in a frame, worn like glasses. The wearer can dial up or down until there is a clear and comfortable image seen on a Snelling Tumbling E Eye Chart. The proper corrective glasses process can be done in less than fifteen minutes. The cost of each pair of glasses is approximately $4 each. Far lower than prescription glass in the U.S.A. The USee does not diagnose astigmatism or other vision issues, but we estimate 90 per cent of vision deficiencies are simple ones and can be resolved by the type of glasses Global Vision 2020 provides, reports White. Presently, the USee system has completed clinical trials for adults at Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University Hospital underway for children at the New England College of Optometry. The system is also being provided at other countries in Africa. In addition, Wood has also teamed with Dave Powell, of Media, Pa., another well driller, whose non-profit project Wells For Relief, along with students from Villanova University, centered on Ghana .are using GPS to record Woods Lifetime Drilling Companys locations in Ghana as it moves from village to village. The Beginning Woods humanitarian effort began In 2006 when Wood sold a used truck-mounted drilling rig to a church group whose mission project was Ghana. Wood then traveled to Ghana to provide training in operating the drilling equipment. Ten years later, in 2016, Wood sent a brand new rig to Africa that can accommodate the countrys rocky terrain. The religious Woods with more than 40 years experience in well drilling felt he could help. That help has continued and heightened. When I consider that I can bring clean water to someone for the first time, at a cost of about $5 per person, its a no-brainer as to how I should spend my life. God sent us to these countries, he said. Sixty per cent of Woods humanitarian efforts have been bankrolled by Wood and his Lifetime Well Drilling Company and been aided by a number of Rotary clubs and has been recognized by AARP. While my bank account may no longer reflect it, I am a rich man for doing this rewarding work, smiles Wood. Woods humanitarian effort and financial support has been featured on the NBC Today Show with Jane Pauley. He has been honoured by the U.S. Harness Writers Association with its Good Guy award, Harness Horse Internationals prestigious Dominic Frinzi Award. Among numerous organizations honouring Wood include a Lifetime Achievement Awards from the National Well Drillers Association and he was named to Marylands Senior Citizen Hall of Fame. Horses Pay The Bills In addition to his humanitarian efforts and his work schedule, Wood is also a popular and highly respected standardbred horseman who has raced for more than three decades at Middle Atlantic region harness racetracks. He has owned and formerly driven in races at Dover Downs, and at Maryland racetracks including ill-fated Baltimore and Freestate (formerly Laurel Raceway) and at Rosecroft raceways, as well as in New Jersey at the Meadowlands and at Harrahs Philadelphia in Chester, Pa. A significant portion of Woods African work comes from earnings from his racing stable headed by world champion trotter JL Cruze and Delaware trotting stallion Ander Bluestone. Wood has no plans to retire from, either supporting his West African benevolent cause, or from his well drilling occupation, or from racing high quality harness horses. It keeps him young! (Dover Downs) As a voting associate board member, Standardbred Canada has been working with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) by providing feedback to CFA as it pertains to the taxation proposals. Both Standardbred Canada and CFA welcome Monday's announcement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Finance Minister Bill Morneau, and Small Business and Tourism Minister Bardish Chaggar that the 10.5% small business tax rate will drop to 10% in 2018 and 9% in 2019. A reduced overall small business tax rate will help to drive growth in the agriculture sector and boost the competitiveness of Canadian farmers. As well, changes announced to 'Tax Planning Using Private Corporations' proposals are a positive sign that the government understands the concerns voiced by farm groups in recent months. Simplifying the income sprinkling rules is a step in the right direction and farmers look forward to more clarity around tax changes. We are also pleased that the government will not proceed with limiting access to the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption. Minister Morneau has said that he'll ensure family farm transfers aren't affected by the tax changes and farm groups await details on how the proposals will be revised in this regard. While Monday's news resolves some uncertainty, farmers remain apprehensive about other proposed tax measures, particularly on passive investments, which are vital for managing year-over-year risks due to weather or market-related volatility. Through the CFA, Standardbred Canada has also noted concern with plans that would affect the conversion of income into capital gains. CFA executives are in regular contact with Finance Canada officials and other government representatives, and outstanding issues will be addressed in the near future. (with files from CFA) The origins of so much of the misery of todays African lies in the colonial period, when European states carved up the continent and plundered its resources for private gain. Englands Cecil Rhodes seized control of what is now Zimbabwe and South Africa. Portugal had Angola and Mozambique. And Belgium had the Congo. Its estimated the King Leopold was responsible for the enslavement and massacre of up to 10-million Congolese (half the total population) through starvation, disease and overwork. Though this colonial period set in motion much of the suffering that has ensued up to the present day, there was a second decisive point at which Africas fate couldve been transformed into something far better than what subsequently happened. That was the post-WWII period of liberation, when these European colonies won their freedom. Had the Europeans acted responsibly toward their former colonies and prepared them properly for self-government, the serial blood-baths that followed, in which tens of millions of Africans have been slaughtered in ethnic and religious conflict might have been avoided. Specifically, in the Congo, Belgium offered it independence in 1961. However, not content to let well enough alone, Belgium tried to retain control of the richest resources in the country in the region of Katanga. A rag-tag alliance of Katangese and Belgian mercenaries declared secession from Congo and a civil war commenced. The Congolese were led by Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba, an anti-colonialist and ally of the Soviet Union. His army chief of staff and defense minister was Mobutu Sese Seko. The then-UN Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold traveled to Congo in an attempt to mediate between the two sides. English mediators had gathered with two Congolese parties in neighboring Zambia (later Rhodesia) for peace talks. But there were elements in Katanga who wanted these talks to fail. For some reason, they believed UN mediation would threaten them. As Hammarskjolds plane neared the landing strip, eyewitnesses report that a jet plane approached and either clipped the wing or fired at it (or both). As a result, the plane crashed and all aboard were killed. An investigation at the time declared that pilot error was at fault. But scholars and activists have reopened the case over the past decade and a UN special report found convincing evidence that supports the testimony of eyewitnesses that there was foul play. The UN has asked all parties who have knowledge or archival documents that might shed light on the incident to produce relevant materials. This includes Belgium, France, the U.S. and Britain, whose intelligence services were closely monitoring both the physical location of the talks, and all telecommunications, including those of the plane with the ground. So far, they have not done so. Eitay Mack, an Israeli activist and attorney who led the fight to expose Israeli arms sale to Burmas genocidal junta , has filed a petition demanding that the Mossad also open its archives. Israel during the 1950s and 60s was a member of the non-aligned movement and considered itself a socialist nation. As such, it sought allies throughout the Third-World, including Africa. Along with economic and agricultural aid packages to establish good relations, Israel sent intelligence agents and recruited spies to monitor the activities of the Russian and U.S. superpowers; and to exploit whatever openings they could find to advance Israeli interests. Here is Macks Facebook post about his petition: Israeli human rights activists have filed a petition with the Mossad and other Israeli intelligence agencies to reveal any documents in their holdings having to do with the circumstances of the deal of UN Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold. Whoever wants to understand the difficult situation in the Congo today must return to this lost and stolen decade, the 1960s, when the U.S., Belgium and Israel shaped the face of this nation for the decades which followed; building an unstable and kleptocratic regime based on war crimes against civilians. Shortly after Congo won its independence from Belgium, in June 1960, the resource-rich Katanga province rebelled and decreed its independence from Congo. In the context of the Cold War, many nations were involved in affairs of Congo at that time (in particular, Belgium, South Africa, France, Britain, China and the Soviet Union) and according the various reports and documents Israeli weapons were supplied to both the Katanga rebels and the Kinshasa government. From the beginning of the 1960s, Israel forged an alliance with Mobutu, who was chief of staff and defence minister of Congo, and later a murderous dictator, among the most infamous of the 20th century. Israel put great faith in him and his military forces. In September 1960, Mobutu ordered a military coup with the support of the U.S. Afterward, he was responsible for the assassination of Patrice Lumumba, an anti-colonial leader and prime minister of Congos first government after it gained independence from Belgium in January 1961. Like the U.S., Israel too opposed Lumumba and his ideas. Israel has never liked radical, progressive or anti-colonial leaders. It prefers instead to do business with dictators and corrupt armed forces which murder, rape, embezzle and disappear civilians. In September 1961, a plane crashed near the town of Nadola in what is now Zambia. 16 passengers died, among them then-UN Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold, who was en route to a meeting with the leader of the Katanga rebels, Moise Tshombe. Hammarskjold wanted to reach an end of the civil war and was an important figure in the campaign to end colonialism throughout the world. 56 years have passed since then and many unanswered questions remain about Hammarskjolds death. Despite the possibility that it was just a question of pilot error, there is a great deal of evidence that the plane crashed after it was attacked in the air Today, its clear that the only way to arrive at the truth is through the release of all relevant documents by all UN members. This petition has first been filed with the ministries of defense and foreign affairs. They replied that they have no such documents. The defense ministry advised us to turn to the IDF. According to the army, it appears Mr. Hammarskjold isnt yet dead. He merely ceased being mentioned in any documents (after his death). These documents do reveal that Israel and its army were involved in the Congo in a broad and significant way that isnt known to the wider public. Golda Meir, then foreign minister, told a cabinet meeting: No one will ever know why the plane crashed. Although there is no clear evidence Israel was directly involved in his death, in light of Israels interests, involvement and massive military activities in the region at that time (in Congo, Cameroon, Rhodesia, Portugese colonies, etc.), and Hammerskjolds important role in the end of colonialism, and the geopolitical significance of his role as Secretary General, specifically in Congo, there may be documents in the possession of Israels intelligence services which might aid in solving this mystery. I'm not alone when I say that I've never been through anything like this and didn't see it coming. I had no way of imagin... It's Election season and our editor's mailbox is overflowing. Who do your neighbors support? Read about it here. 40wovOuAJMZ article //rs1.huanqiucdn.cn/dp/api/files/imageDir/aea266fa9cf70679d8af20d340042c4d.png GL8 ES17 auto.huanqiu.com 1606960549716 9CaKrnKmQBQ article //himg2.huanqiucdn.cn/attachment2010/2019/0916/10/23/20190916102314980.jpg health.huanqiu.com 1568599980000 4AU0GM94ETB article lx.huanqiu.com 9CaKrnKmROO article health.huanqiu.com 4AT7wU6Q7wX article auto.huanqiu.com 7Q2P3389HpK article 1.27 quality.huanqiu.com 1568708543125 Dedicated to the Restoration of Progressive Democracy Newly appointed European Union Envoy to Dhaka Mrs. Rensje Teerink presents credentials to President Abdul Hamid at Bangabhaban on Tuesday. Press Wing, Bangabhaban photo 4 'robbers' held in Chuadanga UNB, Chuadanga : Police in a drive arrested four alleged members of inter-district robbers' gang along with home-made weapons from Darshana-Joyrampur road area of Damurhuda upazila early Tuesday. The arrestees were identified as Abu Siddique, son of Gofar Maula of Keshabpur village, Sultan, son of Jabbar Hossain of Hotathpara, Billal Hossain, son of Jahir Hossain of Chhayghoria village of the upazila and Jubayer, son of Abu Kalam of Nehalpur village in Sadar upazila. GM Emdadul Haque, sub-inspector of Damurhuda Model Police Station, said tipped-off that a gang of robbers was taking preparation to commit robbery in the area, a team of police conducted a drive and arrested them along with locally-made weapons. The arrestees are active members of inter-district robbers' gang, the SI added. US-backed forces take Raqa hospital from IS holdouts Members of the Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate at the frontline in the Islamic State (IS) group\'s crumbling stronghold of Raqa on Monday. AFP, Raqa : US-backed forces said Tuesday they had retaken the main hospital in Syria's Raqa from the Islamic State group, leaving the jihadists to make a last stand around the city's stadium. The capture of the state hospital brought the Syrian Democratic Forces closer to completing their conquest of Raqa, a northern city that was once the de facto capital of IS-held territory. "The national hospital was liberated and... 22 foreign mercenaries were killed," the SDF said. "Clashes continue with great intensity near the municipal stadium." The jihadists also suffered setbacks Tuesday in the eastern Syrian region of Deir Ezzor, where Russian-backed regime forces retook swathes of territory, further reducing a "caliphate" that three years ago was roughly the size of Britain. In Raqa, only about 300 IS fighters, mostly foreigners, were believed to remain in the last neighbourhoods still out of the control of the SDF, a Kurdish-Arab alliance supported by the US-led coalition battling IS in Syria and Iraq. The retaking of the hospital followed Monday's seizure by the SDF of an infamous roundabout used by the jihadists for public beheadings and crucifixions. The Al-Naim traffic circle had been dubbed the "Roundabout of Hell" by residents under IS's more than three years of rule over the city. As the sun was setting over Raqa's west Monday, a group of fighters gathered for the dabkeh-the jumpy line dance traditional in the Middle East-to celebrate their native city's near-recapture. Three months after Iraqi forces retook Iraq's Mosul, the largest city the jihadist group controlled, the loss of Raqa will be another nail in the coffin of IS's brutal experiment in statehood. The breakthrough in the operation to retake Raqa, which was launched on June 6, came after a deal was struck allowing the evacuation in recent days of civilians who had been held as human shields. Under the deal, a total of 275 Syrian IS fighters and relatives also surrendered to the SDF, though it was unclear whether they would be given safe passage elsewhere. The final phase of the Raqa battle was launched on Sunday after a last batch of haggard-looking civilians was able to escape the devastated city. The SDF said it may achieve full victory in Raqa very soon, but stressed that fierce fighting was still under way near the stadium. "The end of the battle is fast approaching, maybe today or tomorrow," SDF spokesman Talal Sello told AFP. After IS captured Raqa in 2014, the city become synonymous with the jihadist group's worst abuses and was transformed into a planning centre for attacks abroad. After Raqa, anti-IS efforts will focus on Deir Ezzor province, where the jihadists still control areas around the town of Mayadeen, part of provincial capital Deir Ezzor, as well as several villages and remote desert areas. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Tuesday that regime forces had brought the entire area stretching between Deir Ezzor and Mayadeen under their control following a major military offensive. Catalonia braces for protests as key separatists held Protesters in Barcelona are calling for \"freedom for political prisoners\" AFP, Barcelona : Catalonia braced for protests Tuesday after a judge ordered the detention of two powerful separatist leaders, further inflaming tensions in the crisis over the Spanish region's chaotic independence referendum. The National Court in Madrid moved late Monday to keep Jordi Cuixart and Jordi Sanchez behind bars on sedition charges, prompting hundreds of their supporters to take to the streets of Barcelona overnight in protest. "Unfortunately, we have political prisoners again," tweeted Catalan President Carles Puigdemont, whose standoff with the central government has shaken stock markets and sent ripples of anxiety through the European Union. Cuixart and Sanchez are the leaders pro-independence citizens' groups Omnium Cultural and the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) respectively, both of which count tens of thousands of members in the wealthy northeastern region and have emerged as influential players in the crisis. Omnium and the ANC called on workers across Catalonia to briefly down tools at noon (1000 GMT) in protest against the jailing of the pair nicknamed the "two Jordis", with a candle-lit protest in central Barcelona due at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT). Further protests were due in the afternoon in front of Spanish central government offices in four provincial Catalan capitals-Tarragona, Lleida, Gerona and Barcelona. "If you're watching this video, it's because the state has decided to deny me my freedom," Cuixart said in a message recorded before the court decision, adding that his organisation would work "underground" if necessary. He and Sanchez are accused of encouraging a major protest last month as Spanish police raided Catalan regional government offices in the run-up to the banned independence on October 1. Police officers were trapped for hours and their vehicles vandalised as protesters ringed the building, with Cuixart and Sanchez standing atop a police car calling for "permanent mobilisation" against the Spanish state. The crime of sedition can carry up to 15 years in prison. Catalan police chief Josep Lluis Trapero, charged with the same offence, has been allowed to walk free but is banned from leaving Spain. Enric Millo, the government's representative in Barcelona, insisted that the judge's decision had been made independently. "There is a separation of powers here," he told Catalunya Radio. Tuesday's protests come as the central government and Puigdemont's separatist regional administration fail to break the deadlock in Spain's worst political crisis since it returned to democracy in 1977 following the death of dictator Francisco Franco. Madrid had ordered Puigdemont to clarify by Monday whether he was declaring independence following the referendum, which resulted in a 90 percent 'Yes' vote-although turnout was only 43 percent as many supporters of Spanish unity stayed away. US official not ruling out eventual direct talks with N Korea North Korea\'s military on show as tensions rise. Reuters, Tokyo : The United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. "Eventually, we don't rule out the possibility of course of direct talks," Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. "Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail," he said. Tension has soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Leaflets apparently from North Korea calling Trump a "mad dog" and depicting gruesome images of him have turned up across central Seoul, adding an unusually personal element to North Korean propaganda. "The situation on the Korean peninsula where the attention of the whole world is focused has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment," North Korea's Deputy U.N. Ambassador Kim In Ryong told a U.N. General Assembly committee on Monday. "As long as one does not take part in the U.S. military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country," according to Kim's prepared remarks for the discussion on nuclear weapons. Kim did not read that section out loud. South Korea and the United States began week-long joint Navy drills in the waters around the Korean peninsula on Monday, involving about 40 ships from both militaries, including the nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, the South's defense ministry said. The North's state media said on Tuesday the allies' "desperate efforts" to block the advance of the country would only vindicate that it should continue its nuclear program "to the last." "The DPRK has been fully ready for all the U.S. is resorting to, including sanctions, pressure and military option, as it has the tremendous nuclear force for self-defense and irresistible strength of self-reliance and self-development," the official KCNA news agency said in a commentary. The DPRK stands for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Asked about the North Korean envoy's warning of nuclear war, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said it would not be in anyone's interest. "China still hopes that all parties, in this situation where things on the Korean peninsula are highly complex and sensitive, can exercise restraint and do more to benefit the lowering of tensions in the region," Lu told a daily news briefing. The U.N. Security Council has unanimously ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs since 2006. The most recent U.N. sanctions banned exports of coal, iron ore and seafood, aimed at cutting off a third of the North's total annual exports of $3 billion. Experts say North Korea has been scrambling to find alternative sources of hard currency to keep its economy afloat and advance its weapons program. North Korea's Lazarus hacking group was probably responsible for a recent cyber heist in Taiwan, cyber-security firm BAE Systems Plc said on Monday. Taiwan's Central News Agency said last week that hackers had sought to steal some $60 million from the Far Eastern Bank, but it had recovered all but $500,000. BAE Systems and other cyber firms have previously linked Lazarus to last year's $81-million cyber heist at Bangladesh's central bank. Strengthening youth potential for a better future Bandar Hajjar : Investing in youth by developing their potential through education, job creation and instilling the values that advance the cause of humanity is the most daunting, yet promising challenge facing world leaders. The challenges our society faces today cannot be divorced from those faced by the youth. Recently, the international community agreed on implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. We must keep in mind that the relevance of each of the SDG goals to the youth must constantly remain a top priority. A United Nations report, titled Youth Population Trends and Sustainable Development, estimated that as of 2015, there were 1.2 billion youth in the world, aged 15-24. This figure will increase by 7 percent by 2030, raising the youth population to 1.3 billion globally. According to UN data, the youth population will grow by 15 percent in Jordan, Iraq and Saudi Arabia and by 42 percent in Africa by 2030. These major changes in youth population bring tremendous opportunities for economic growth. It can help emerging economies develop their manufacturing potential and create markets that can help drive the global economy. Yet, lack of proper planning and investment in the youth can be catastrophic, as we have seen in some countries at the beginning of this decade. The world is still grappling with these challenges. Still, I remain optimistic. Earlier this year, the Islamic Development Bank chose "Youth Economic Empowerment" as a theme for its 2017 Annual Meeting in Jeddah. That meeting brought together youth delegates from the 57 IDB member countries to brainstorm and determine their priorities. The Youth Summit, the first of its kind in the Muslim World, convened talented youth already making a difference in education, entrepreneurship and social mobilization. Here at the IDB, it has been decided by top management to integrate youth initiatives in projects. Drawing on the IDB's 10-Year Strategic Framework, the President's 5-Year Programme includes key components related to youth development. Harnessing the potential of the global youth population to become an asset in their own societies is of paramount importance. With the right policies and strategies, the youth can stay in their home countries to contribute to their economies, rather than seek an uncertain future, crossing borders only to end up in the hands of criminals. Islam holds youth in high esteem, calls upon them to be active members in society by contributing to socio-economic development. The youth population is one of the strengths of OIC countries if the critical challenges facing this population are addressed. According to a report by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), OIC countries will remain to have the largest share of young population. In 2050, 15.9% of the population in OIC countries are projected to be 15-24 years old. This could result in OIC countries having a solid position in terms of their younger population. While the youth population can offer great opportunities for OIC countries, neglecting their development issues can threaten socio-economic development and lead to massive youth migration to countries that offer them better life prospects, resulting in a brain drain of OIC countries. The ILO's ILO report on the World Employment and Social Outlook for Youth, 2016 estimated that the global youth unemployment rate is expected to reach 13.1 per cent in 2016, rising by half a million to reach 71 million. For the most part, their condition is abysmal, with high unemployment rates and widespread poverty. If the issue of youth migration is to be addressed, it will require efforts and an overarching agenda for youth development in OIC countries by multiple partners, including governments, development institutions, policymakers, economists, civil society agencies and the youth themselves. The UN World Report (2013) states that "young migrants constitute a relatively large proportion of the overall migrant population". The high number of youth migrant population can be explained by the "Push-Pull-Facilitation" model proposed by SESRIC (2014). Push factors are problems and difficulties that compel young people to leave their home country or region, while pull factors are features that attract young people to the country of destination, and facilitation factors are the dynamics that enable the immigration process from the home country to the country of destination. SESRIC (2015) reports that "One of the major push factors is the lack of inclusion of OIC youth in society", in addition to factors such as unemployment, poor working conditions, lack of political stability, the rise of extremism, poor governance, corruption, poverty and lack of freedom. The main pull factors the report highlights include higher income, better employment prospects, higher living standards, freedom and political stability. Facilitation factors are forces such as globalization, internationalization of professions and advances in information and communication technology, which has led to an increase in young people mobility, as well as easier access to information about education, employment and living opportunities abroad. In harnessing the potential of youth in OIC countries, I believe that we must consider the push factors by undertaking two critical objectives: (i) Productive and economically empowered youth who contribute to the development of their societies/communities; and (ii) Engaged and responsible youth who embody and embrace leadership. To achieve these objectives, we need to address the following four strategic pillars: Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Effective Engagement: Education: Education is a key pillar in addressing youth migration. Education is about making the most important investment in human capital to increase the productive capacity of a nation. Quality education generates both immediate and long-term benefits to society. It gives the youth effective skills for employment, or for becoming entrepreneurs, improving living standards and personal and mental health and promoting peace and stability. Employment: Youth unemployment is one of the main push factors forcing young people from OIC countries to migrate in search for a better life. This issue has grown in prominence on the global development agenda. To achieve job growth for the youth, it is essential to strengthen existing industries and develop new, competitive ones. Enhancing trade stimulates the economy, requiring member countries to provide their youth with appropriate vocational skills to seize the job opportunities thus created. Entrepreneurship: Youth entrepreneurship has the potential to integrate youth into the labor market and combat poverty. This in turn will reduce youth unemployment and lead to additional socio-economic outcomes. Islamic microfinance supports the youth's entrepreneurial endeavors by financing their income-generating activities in proportion to their capacity as business partners. Islamic microfinance institutions support economic empowerment, providing access to credit as well as business opportunities to youth through access to markets, information and technology. They play an important catalyst role in creating startups and in SME growth. Effective Engagement: In addition to becoming economically empowered, the youth of OIC countries should be effectively engaged. First, they should seek to be informed and consulted about decisions affecting their socio-economic well-being, made in their communities. Second, they should be able to take positive and constructive action to influence changes potentially affecting them. The main aim of these pillars is to instill in the minds of the youth such useful character traits as leadership, volunteerism, civic engagement and skill development for lifelong learning and advocacy. This sense of empowerment will create a strong bond between the youth and their communities, eliminating the need to migrate in search for better lives. In addition to the four strategic pillars above, the following points may be worth considering as key success factors: Strengthening cooperation with other Multilateral Development Banks and regional institutions to create platforms for learning about youth development issues. Consulting the youth and allowing their perspective and experience to be included as a part of a high-level, strategic dialogue. This will ensure that initiatives, projects and programmes will take into consideration the youth dimension (including the perspectives of women, the disabled and marginalized youth). Involving youth in designing, implementing and evaluating youth-related projects and programmes. Platforms to support this role for youth have to be established and maintained. In conclusion, I share the popular adage that today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. Islam regards youth as a blessing, and holds them in high esteem. While the youth population can offer great opportunities for OIC countries, neglecting their development issues can threaten socio-economic development and lead to massive youth migration to countries that offer them better life prospects, resulting in a brain drain of OIC countries. Addressing youth migration in OIC countries is an enormous undertaking. Therefore. I suggest that we adopt a focused, yet comprehensive approach in order to increase the impact and capability of interventions so that the youth in OIC countries can look forward to a more promising future and contribute positively to their countries' well-being. (Dr. Bandar M. H. Hajjar is President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group). Khaleda returns home Wednesday BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, facing arrest warrants in three cases, returns home on Wednesday completing her over a three-month visit to the United Kingdom. Khaleda is scheduled to leave Londons Heathrow Airport for Bangladesh around 2am (BST) on Tuesday night by an Emirates Airlines flight, her media wing member Sayrul Kabir Khan. The flight is expected to land at Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka around 5:20pm on Wednesday, he said. Sayrul said BNP leaders and activists will gather in the airport area to receive Khaleda. However, BNP has no scheduled programme to accord her a reception at the airport. Meanwhile, a court in Comilla and two others here issued warrants for Khaleda Zias arrest last week in three separate cases. Speaking at a programme yesterday, Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said lawful action will be taken against BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia after her return from London. Legal action will be taken against her (Khaleda) as thereve are warrants for her arrest. Well take action as per law when the documents of the warrants reach us, he said. At a discussion programme, BNP senior leader Moudud Ahmed said the government is unlikely to make a blunder by arresting their chairperson Khaleda Zia. He said Khaleda is returning home keeping her some treatment incomplete only to show respect for the law and court. Our leader (Khaleda) will go to the court on the following day of her homecoming. Khaleda Zia on July 15 went to London for receiving medical treatment and spending time with her family members there. The BNP chief on August 8 underwent a successful eye surgery at a hospital in London. She also celebrated Eid-ul Azha with her family members there. ECP suspension 84 MPs barred from entering Punjab Assembly Dawn.com : Eighty-four lawmakers were barred from attending the session of Punjab Assembly on Tuesday, a day after the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) suspended their membership for not submitting their statements of assets and liabilities. A total of 74 MPAs belonging to the ruling PML-N were barred from entering the House after their suspension by ECP. The barred lawmakers include ministers Iqbal Ahmad Chandar and Chaudhry Shafiq.The suspended lawmakers from other political parties who were not allowed to enter include: The ECP on Monday suspended the membership of 261 legislators for not submitting their statements of assets and liabilities. According to an official of the ECP, seven senators, 71 members of the National Assembly, 84 members of the Punjab Assembly, 50 members of the Sindh Assembly, 38 members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly and 11 members of the Balochistan Assembly had failed to submit their statements of assets. He said that the ECP had through a notification informed these parliamentarians that they would cease to function as legislators with immediate effect and till such statements were submitted by them. So far, 905 legislators had submitted their yearly statements of assets and liabilities of their own, spouses and dependents to the ECP. The official said that it was a mandatory requirement under Section 42A of the Representation of the People Act, 1976, and Section 25A of the Senate (Election) Act, 1975, that those parliamentarians who failed to submit statements of assets and liabilities would be suspended from respective seats of the Senate and national and provincial assemblies. Myanmar army chief slams UN criticism Nikkei Asian Review, Yangon : Myanmar's army chief has denounced the United Nations' criticism of the country's treatment of its Rohingya Muslim minority, saying it lacked historical context. Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, commander-in-chief of Myanmar's armed forces, said the U.N.'s recent comments on the situation in Rakhine State, which is home to many Rohingya, are "totally contrary to the situation on the ground, as the global organization just uses the recent crisis as the base without taking into account the long and emotional history" of the region. The general's comments were published Tuesday by military headquarters on its Facebook page. It said Min Aung Hlaing made the remarks during a meeting a day earlier with Jeffery Feltman, undersecretary-general for political affairs at the U.N., who was visiting Myanmar. The army has said it will investigate possible breaches of law during its sweeps against armed Rohingya militants. According to the Facebook page, Min Aung Hlaing said that "local people did not accept the accusation that the Tatmadaw [the military's official name] solved the problem of terror attacks with [disproportionate force]." He defended the military's campaign so far, saying, "The number of innocent lives lost, [along with those of] service personnel and police were reduced." Regarding the humanitarian assistance extended by the U.N., he said, "[The people] were suspicious of the seizures of foreign relief aid in Bengali terrorist camps." He also suggested international organizations may be barred from the area if they failed to meet preconditions. "Any organization may contact the Central Committee for the implementation of Rakhine State Peace, Stability and Development, led by State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi." Feltman arrived in Myanmar on Oct. 13 and was scheduled to leave Tuesday. He also met with Suu Kyi on Monday. The details of their meeting were not disclosed. Unicef wants addl funding Unicef on Tuesday said it will not be able to continue providing lifesaving aid and protection to the Rohingya children who have fled horrific violence in Myanmar for refuge in Bangladesh without immediate additional funding. Almost 60 per cent of the 582,000 Rohingyas who have fled Myanmar since August 25 are children - and thousands more are crossing each week. "The growing needs are far outpacing resources," Unicef spokesperson Marixie Mercado said at a press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. The official said Rohingya children have already endured atrocities and all of them need the lifesaving basics - shelter, food, water, vaccinations, protection - not tomorrow or next week or next month, but right now. "Unicef is appealing to donors to help fulfil these children's most fundamental right; to survive," said the Spokesperson. As of October 17, Unicef has received just 7 per cent of the $76 million required to provide emergency support to children over the next six months. Donors include the Central Emergency Relief Fund managed by OCHA, the Governments of Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States; the French, German, Japanese, Malaysian, Swiss, the UK and US national committees for Unicef; as well as the King Abdulla Foundation and Education Cannot Wait. "Without more funding, we'll have to stop treating and trucking water to over 40,000 people who otherwise would have no access to safe water by the end of November," the Unicef official was quoted as saying in a statement UNB received on Tuesday. Unicef said they have built 180 water points, but will not be able to build the additional 1,400 that are required to meet the needs of 350,000 people. "We've installed 3,700 toilets, but without more resources, we won't be able to install another 12,000 needed by 250,000 people," said Marixie Mercado. The official said they will not be able to procure supplies of ready-to-use therapeutic food to treat 15000 children suffering from life-threatening severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Some 80,000 children will have no access to basic healthcare, and about 100,000 newly-arrived refugee children will not be immunised against measles, rubella or polio, according to Unicef. "We won't be able to adequately respond to a massive outbreak of waterborne diseases because we won't have the trained staff and supplies," Marixie Mercado said. Copyright 2021 New Nation. All Rights Reserved by thedailynewnation.com Mass destruction of Rohingya homes in Rakhine New satellite image of HRW Newly released satellite images revealed that at least 288 villages were destroyed by fire in northern Rakhine State in Myanmar since August 25. According to Human Rights Watch (HRW), the destruction encompassed tens of thousands of structures, primarily homes inhabited by ethnic Rohingya Muslims. Analysis of the satellite imagery indicated both that the burnings focused on Rohingya villages and took place after Myanmar officials claimed security force "clearance operations" had ceased, said the US-based watchdog on Tuesday. The imagery pinpoints multiple areas where destroyed Rohingya villages sat adjacent to intact ethnic Rakhine villages. It also showed that at least 66 villages were burned after September 5, when security force operations supposedly ended, according to a September 18 speech by State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi.The Myanmar military responded to attacks on August 25 by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) with a campaign of ethnic cleansing, prompting more than 530,000 Rohingya to flee across the border to Bangladesh, according to the United Nations refugee agency. "These latest satellite images show why over half a million Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in just four weeks," said Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director of HRW. "The Myanmar military destroyed hundreds of Rohingya villages while committing killings, rapes, and other crimes against humanity that forced Rohingya to flee for their lives." A total of 866 villages in Maungdaw, Rathedaung, and Buthidaung townships in Rakhine State were monitored and analysed by Human Rights Watch. The most damage occurred in Maungdaw Township, accounting for approximately 90 percent of the areas where destruction happened between August 25 and September 25. Approximately 62 percent of all villages in the township were either partially or completely destroyed, and southern areas of the township were particularly hard hit, with approximately 90 percent of the villages devastated. In many places, satellite imagery showed multiple areas on fire, burning simultaneously over wide areas for extended periods. Human Rights Watch found that the damage patterns are consistent with fire. Comparing recent imagery with those taken prior to the date of the attacks, analysis showed that most of the damaged villages were 90 to 100 percent destroyed. Many villages which had both Rohingya and Rakhine residing in segregated communities, such as Inn Din and Ywet Hnyo Taung, suffered heavy arson damage from arson attacks, with known Rohingya areas burned to the ground while known Rakhine areas were left intact. The Myanmar government has repeatedly said that ARSA insurgents and local Rohingya communities were responsible for setting the fires that wiped out their villages, but has offered no evidence to support such claims. Human Rights Watch interviewed in Bangladesh with more than 100 refugees who had fled the three townships gave no indication that any Rohingya villagers or militants were responsible for burning down their own villages. "The shocking images of destruction in Burma and burgeoning refugee camps in Bangladesh are two sides of the same coin of human misery being inflicted on the Rohingya," said Phil Robertson, Deputy Asia Director. 15,000 refugees stranded near border UN urges BD to speed up vetting A Rohingya refugee woman who crossed the border from Myanmar a day before, carries her daughter to Palang Khali, camp in Bangladesh on Tuesday. The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) urged Bangladesh on Tuesday to speed up vetting of about 15,000 Rohingya refugees "stranded" near the border after they cross into the country and move them further inland to provide safer and better conditions. Some 5,82,000 Rohingyas have fled Myanmar since violence erupted on August 25 in the northern Rakhine state, where they had no access to food and health care, UN officials said. "We are gravely worried about humanitarian conditions in Bangladesh, where thousands of new arrivals are stranded near the border," UNHCR spokesman Andrej Mahecic told a Geneva news briefing. An estimated 10,000 to 15,000 have entered Bangladesh through the Anjuman Para border crossing point since Sunday night, many of whom walked for about a week to reach the border, he said. "We are advocating with the Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence aimidst increasingly difficult conditions to return home," Mahecic said. The delay happened due to screening by Bangladesh Border Guards, he said, emphasising this was the right of any government. UN aid agencies have not had access to the shrinking Rohingya population in northern Rakhine State since the August 25 reported attacks on police posts and army campaign. Jens Laerke, spokesman of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said that Rohingya in Rakhine now faced a "desperate choice whether to stay or go", not only due to the violence, but also for humanitarian needs. "They need food, they need health care and other necessaries. These are certainly burning factor to consider," he said. Nearly 60 per cent of the 5,82,000 refugees who have fled Myanmar since August 25 are children - and thousands more are crossing each week, UNICEF spokeswoman Marixie Mercado said. UNICEF, which is supplying clean water every day to 40,000 people in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, and has installed thousands of toilets, may have to stop operations by the end of November unless further funds are received, she said. A UN inter-agency appeal for $434 million for Rohingya in Bangladesh and host communities is only 24 percent funded, OCHA's Laerke said. Hospital: Mission for making money Staff Reporter : An expecting mother was allegedly driven away by staff members of a maternity clinic in the city as she failed to give them the money they demanded for delivery charge. In the consequence, the ill-fatted woman Pervin Akter, 26, delivered a baby boy on the maternity compound, but the child died eventually due to lack of necessary post-delivery supports that leaves behind endless questions to answer as an accused. This tragic death and horrific behaviour with an expecting mother touched the hearts of all, but not the cruel staff members of the maternity clinic. The incident took place at Azimpurs Mothers Care and Children Health Training Center (Maternity) on Tuesday morning. Sohel Rana, a relative of Parvin Akter, told the journalists that she was brought to the maternity clinic early in the morning yesterday.But some staff of the hospital demanded Tk 1,500 from the womans attendants as delivery charge. But they failed to pay the demanded money instantly. Then a nurse and another female drove the mother out of the labour room of the clinic, Sohel alleged. Within minutes, the woman gave birth a baby boy on the maternity compound at around 8:00am, but sadly the newly born baby died within five minutes of birth. Relatives of Parvin said that earlier she was taken to Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) and Mitford Hospital early morning, but they failed to get her admitted in both the hospitals also for want of sufficient money. Parvin Aktar is now under treatment at the Azimpurs Mothers Care and Child Health Training Center (Maternity). She was allowed to admit there as relatives of the ill-fated mother and local people rushed to the hospital and their expressed anger over the incident. When contacted, Dr. Israt Jahan, the Superintendent of the Maternity said, It is totally unacceptable to demand money from the mother of an expecting baby. We have formed a committee to probe the incident. If any staff of the clinic is found guilty, we will punish him or her. Dr. Israt also said that some tout and outside brokers used to disturb us during duty hours. They may be involved in the matter. President should not have asked the judges -- Barrister Mainul Staff Reporter : At a talk-show called Muktabak of News-24 TV on Monday night Barrister Mainul Hosein said he could not believe that the judges of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court went to meet the Chief Justice to tell him about the allegations against him as desired by the President. He vehemently refused to accept the story about the judges going to the Chief Justice SK Sinha and asked his reaction to the allegations against him, it being not acceptable. Barrister Hosein said after the statement of the Acting Chief Justice Mr Abdul Wahhab Miah in the Full Court of the Supreme Court, Monday there is no scope for me not believing the story that the five judges of the Appellate Division went to the Chief Justice as desired by the President to ask him what he had to say about the allegations and as they found no satisfactory response they let him know that they would not sit with him in court. The President should have sent the matter to the Supreme Judicial Council, he added. In answering to a question from one Mr Mahmud Hossain from New York, if our judges had become trade union leaders not to sit with the Chief Justice in the court, Barrister Mainul said it is not done. The question most seriously raised by Barrister Hosein was why Justice Sinha was granted leave to go abroad when as many as eleven serious allegations were made against him by President Abdul Hamid although the allegations were made public after the Chief Justice had left the country. Nothing was known about all these crimes before the judgement denying the Parliament the power of impeaching the judges of the apex court. He could not have committed all those crimes after the judgement. Barrister Hosein noted painfully that values of decency, principle and honesty are fast disappearing from our public life aggravating the national crisis. He warned against the consequences of playing politics with the sanctity of the judiciary and its independence. Both about free election and impeaching the judges, the government should learn from the examples in India. The other participant in the talk-show was former Awami League Chief Whip Vice-Principal Abdus Shahid who justified all the actions and denied the existence of the Supreme Judicial Council. He found many of the observations made by Justice Sinha in the judgement as highly objectionable. He praised profusely the achievements of Awami League and Father of the Nation Bangabandhu. The talk-show was moderated by journalist Rahul Raha. Save Rohingyas, they have not come to Bangladesh to die Diplomatic Correspondent : The exodus of Rohingya refugees sees no end as the Myanmar army is running its ethnic cleansing operation to free the Rakhine State to create an all holy and pure Buddhist State. As per media reports, Myanmar army is now calling on the remaining Rohingyas in the middle and northern part of the state using loud speakers to flee before torching their villages and brutalizing them by shooting, beheading and raping their women. A total reign of terror is ejecting the people from their land to become homeless. Alone on October 15 over 20,000 Rohingyas entered Bangladesh crossing the Naf River. As per aid agency reports at least 30,000 women out of over 600,000 refugees arrived in Bangladesh since August 25 are pregnant being raped by Myanmar military personnel. The situation is totally terrible and devastating beyond the ability of the Bangladesh government to stop the exodus and give home to so many people in our overcrowded country as their total number now stand over one million. It is time the leadership must come from the international community to stop the atrocities and force Myanmar government to take back the refugees. This is the only solution to end the big human catastrophe engulfing the poor Rohingyas as they are fleeing the country to save life. Bangladesh government alone is incapable to face the challenge, the response of the international community is the only hope for forcing Myanmars military for saving Rohingyas and helping them to find a statehood. The UN Security Council met at least three times in last two months to hold hearing on the crisis but failed to take effective step to stop the butchering. During the latest hearing of the Security Council last week, former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan briefed the Council Members on the terrible situation as head of an international community to investigate the situation urging Myanmar government to take back its nationals. But no big power is so far stepping into make meaningful intervention in the situation. The visiting Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmed Zahid Hamid has expressed unequivocal supports to work with the international community to resolve the problem. He is right when he said only a strong role by the ASEAN block leaders can bring the required pressure on Myanmar to end the atrocities and take back Rohingyas to their home. Meanwhile the decision by Foreign Ministers of the 28-nation European Union decided to stop inviting senior Myanmar military leaders to member states. They have also decided to review all sorts of cooperation with Myanmar military as they have already stopped selling military hardware which can be used for repression on Rohingya people. But many believe the West should impose economic sanction on Myanmar to put more pressure if it does not pay heed to the call of the international community. The country is already feeling the pinch on its economy as a Myanmar daily reported because of the Rohingya crisis. The call by Amnesty International Chief on the EU foreign minister in the wake of their meeting also makes sense when she said all must work together to stop the crimes on the Rohinga people. This human crisis must end and the EU must ensure fair treatment and justice and if need EU must impose more restriction on sales of military hardware to Myanmar. Rohingya crisis has become a major agenda for discussion in the Inter-parliamentary conference now in progress in St Petersburg in Russia. Meanwhile, the Chief of International Organization on Migration now visiting the Rohingya camps in Coxs Bazar has also called on the international community to stand by the side of the Rohjingya people now facing extermination. We have to accept that Rohingyas have come to Bangladesh not to die and suffer but to save their lives for going back to their homeland. Active leadership must be coming from the world powers. Bangladesh is helpless. Shanghai authorities have rolled out new measures to woo more foreign-funded research and development centers to the city as part of the efforts to transform it into a global technological innovation hub by 2030. According to the 15-article policy, recently approved by the Shanghai municipal government, high-level foreign R&D centers in Shanghai will be granted the same privileges as regional headquarters of multinational companies. "That is to say, such R&D centers will obtain policy and financial support from the local government and enjoy more simplified services in terms of entry and exit procedures, talent introduction and customs clearance," Shang Yuying, head of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, told a media briefing. "It is the first time that foreign R&D centers are getting such policy support in China. We hope to attract more global R&D centers of multinational companies that are at the highest level within the company and carry the function of allocating R&D resources around the globe," she said. Currently there are 416 foreign R&D centers in Shanghai, which accounts for one-fourth of the total in China. About 20 of them invest over $10 million annually and have more than 40,000 Chinese R&D staff, according to the commission. Several innovative global products have originated from these centers. According to Shang, 22 products from the Shanghai-based China R&D Center of US-based medical device manufacturer Medtronic have entered the market since its establishment five years ago, with 17 of them targeting mainly at foreign markets. The new measures also include preferential policies for foreign employers of these centers to have easier access to services and less processing time for work permits. "Qualified expats will be given multiple entry visas valid for five to 10 years and provided with more sophisticated social services, including medical, health services and children's schooling," said Yang Chao, deputy head of the commission. The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China said in a report in December that for Shanghai to succeed in its ambitious goal to be a global center, the city will need strong support and participation of foreign businesses, investment and talent. "Critical to Shanghai's ambitions will be whether the city remains attractive to global talent. Ensuring that it does so, will require raising the quality of life in the city and further opening the regime for the issuance of visas, working permits and hukou," said Michael Adams, chairman of the Shanghai chapter of the European Chamber. If you are looking for the new Immoral Minority posts, you should know that they can be found here at our new home Please stop by to get caught up on politics, join the conversations, or simply check out the new digs. The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. Print edition not available for Day Pass option. CARBONDALE Kimberly Foxx, the first African-American woman to lead the Cook County States Attorneys Office, said Southern Illinois University Carbondale helped lay the foundation for her success. Growing up in Cabrini-Green Homes in Chicago, raised by a single mother who dropped out of high school three months before she was set to graduate as she brought Foxx into the world, the groundbreaking prosecutor said she arrived 27 years ago in Carbondale as a young person who was not expected to be much of anything, as she put it. And so I got on the 4 oclock Amtrak and came down here, for the first time in August of 1990, full of hopes and dreams and aspirations of one day becoming a lawyer. It was here, in Carbondale, for the course of the next seven years, that I got the foundation that I needed to stand here today to come back, ever so grateful, grateful, grateful, Foxx said Sunday afternoon at the Carbondale NAACP 40th annual Freedom Fund Banquet, where she delivered the keynote address. Foxx said there is no way in any imagination that I could have had back then as an undergraduate arriving in Carbondale the first place she ever lived away from home for the first semester of classes that I would be standing before you as the first African-American woman elected to the Cook County States Attorneys Office. At that, Foxx received a standing ovation from the crowd that filled the Carbondale Civic Center event hall. Steadfast and Unmovable was the theme of this years event, which raised money for scholarships and other activities of the Carbondale NAACP. Foxx said she changed her mind about the speech she wanted to give at the banquet in the 48 hours leading up to it. She returned to Chicago Saturday evening, she said, from a brief trip to Airlie, a hotel and conference center near Warrenton, Virginia, about an hour from Washington, D.C. The reason for the trip, Foxx said, was a rare invitation for a prosecutor herself to address a weekend retreat for civil rights lawyers and activists sponsored by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Foxx said she came to learn that the NAACP Legal Defense Fund has a 55-year history of meeting at the Airlie convention center, which in the early 1960s was considered the only place south of the Mason-Dixon line that would host an integrated gathering of black and white lawyers. Foxx said that as she walked around the stunningly beautiful 300-acre grounds, she could not help but feel shaken by the fact she was standing here as a lawyer, as a prosecutor, as an elected official, on land where my ancestors toiled in an area that was once the site of a large Virginia plantation. She said she wondered what her great-great-great-grandmother, who was a slave, would have thought about her great-great-great granddaughter traveling to this location to address a group of civil rights activists as an elected leader of the second largest prosecutors office in the country. Foxx took office Dec. 1, 2016. Its easy for us to think about that accomplishment and say to ourselves, Weve gotten so far, that if I can be here, that if we could have elected an African-American president, if can we look around us at things that are so much better than they were before, but I couldnt help but be struck by being in this space, Foxx said. Foxx said she shared her conflicted feelings over breakfast with a colleague. Just before the event was to begin, Foxx said NAACP Legal Defense Fund President and Director-Counsel Sherrilyn Ifill emerged and she was shaking. Foxx said Ifill relayed to her that the evening before, some of the people attending the conference had gathered to socialize in one of the many cottages on the campus. As one of those individuals headed to his room a distinguished lawyer from Tulsa walking along the edge of the road, a car barreled toward him and he had to jump out of the way, Foxx said. And the car stopped about 20 yards ahead of him, rolled down the window, and said, n----- go home, Foxx said that Ifill relayed to her and others. As Sherrilyn was sharing this with me, right before I was going in, at a conference of lawyers, and civil rights activists, part of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and their leadership, on a plantation, I thought to myself, Wow, weve got a lot of work to do. So not for a moment can we allow ourselves the comfort of believing that we have come so far that we cannot acknowledge how far we have to go, she said. Foxx received her bachelors degree in political science at SIU Carbondale and her juris doctorate degree from the SIU School of Law. In September, she was named the Justice Champion of the Month by the Coalition for Public Safety, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that represents the largest national bipartisan movement to reform the criminal justice system, comprising partner organizations from across the country. Jasmine Heiss, deputy director of the Coalition for Public Safety, said that the moment is ripe to elevate the work of forward-thinking prosecutors who are working to change the narrative about how to effectively use their particular prosecutorial powers and discretion to reduce prison populations and slow incarceration rates. In that vein, Kim Foxx is one of the foremost faces of this new class of reform, who is really thinking about her role not just as an enforcer of laws, but as a minister of justice, Heiss said. Heiss said that Foxxs background growing up in poverty on Chicagos Near North Side in one of the countrys most notorious public housing projects also gives her a unique perspective on how to address barriers to creating just and safe neighborhoods. During her talk in Carbondale, Foxx also addressed growing up at Cabrini-Green Homes, the demolition of which began in 1995, not long after Foxx headed for Carbondale. She said that she can relate to how families feel who are being relocated from two public housing complexes in Cairo because they are no longer considered safe due to years of neglect and their age. I grew up in one of the worst public housing complexes in the country, she said. And so the work thats being elevated about whats happening in Cairo, I know personally having grown up in Carbrini. Foxx said it is important that the citizens of Illinois recognize that the state cannot be its best if a child in Cairo doesnt have the opportunity to live in decent, affordable housing And collectively, truly, we will do better as a state, and as a nation, when we recognize that for our neighbor. By Azernews By Laman Ismayilova Many artists, photographs writers find inspiration in Azerbaijan' s beautiful natural heritage. The Land of Fire is popular with those who want to explore wonderful nature and cultural diversity. It's a perfect destination if you want to take time for yourself and make space for creative thinking. This time, the Land of Fire inspired Russian photograther Svetlana Komkova. Her photo exhibition inspired by Azerbaijan opened in NUR Art House on October 13. All photos presented at the exhibition were taken during photographer's visit to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan impressed her with its vibrant culture and nature, Trend Life reported. "My creative expedition to Azerbaijan is not just a search for plots, it's also an acquaintance with new people. I represent Bashkortostan, and I am interested in the linguistic, national and cultural traditions of the peoples living in Azerbaijan and Bashkiria," said Svetlana Komkova. The deputy head of the Rossotrudnichestvo representative office in Azerbaijan, Alexander Kalamin, presented Russian artist Svetlana a letter of gratitude from Rossotrudnichestvo. By Azernews By Kamila Aliyeva The latest meeting between Azerbaijan and Armenia, which are locked in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh for years, was marked with certain positivity, whilst only time can tell the real significance of the achieved agreements. Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Armenias Serzh Sargsyan held talks under the auspices of the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in Geneva on October 16. The talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia at presidential level that discussed the long-lasting Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in the South Caucasus region followed an earlier meeting in St. Petersburg, Russia in June 2016. The sides agreed to take measures to intensify the negotiation process over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts settlement and to take additional steps to reduce tensions on the line of contact between the two countries troops, a joint statement by the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan and the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group said. The Co-Chairs expressed their satisfaction with these direct talks, which took place after a long interval," the statement reads. The Co-Chairs reaffirmed their readiness to work with the sides on mediating a peacefully negotiated settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. As a next step, the Co-Chairs plan to organize working sessions with the ministers in the near future. Foreign Ministers Edward Nalbandian and Elmar Mammadyarov also attended the meeting, which was organized under the auspices of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America). The Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in the summit. Previously, Armenia, as a party to the conflict, has been refusing to sit at a negotiation table with Azerbaijan for a long time. The post Soviet nation that keeps under occupation 20 percent of neighboring Azerbaijan's territory had to resume talks under the international pressures -- the move that was appreciated by the global community and world organizations. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres stated that the UN supports the mediation efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs and called upon the parties, based on the positive momentum of the summit, to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during the talks. However, the practical outcomes of the negotiations, held in constructive atmosphere, are ambiguous, although certain steps were taken to solve the crisis. Despite the fact that all these decisions undoubtedly demonstrate positive signs, the conflict settlement is yet impossible. Moreover, the prospects for this to happen are unclear due to Armenias hidden motives. Armenia attends the talks for show While Azerbaijan strives to reach a peaceful settlement of the protracted conflict, Armenia is yet unwilling to take serious steps in this direction. Peace cannot be achieved by the efforts of only one party. Thus, the scenario is predictable. Even if Armenia takes part in the talks because of the international pressure, at some very important point, the country will break the process and withdraw from negotiations. The future is predicted by the past. Previously, Armenia tried to impede the negotiation process by all means. Last meetings between the Azerbaijani and Armenian presidents were held in Vienna in May and St. Petersburg in June. After that, the talks stalled, although the Azerbaijani side and the country's president constantly affirmed Baku's readiness to sit at a negotiating table with Yerevan. Armenia was ignoring the calls. Azerbaijan has many reasons for mistrust towards Armenia. Yerevan, for instance, confirmed the correctness of such an attitude by disclosing the details of the talks. Sargsyan breaks promise again Following the talks, Sargsyan met with representatives of the Armenian community at the Armenias Embassy in the Swiss Confederation and revealed the results of the meeting with President Aliyev. We do not have any specific agreements, so to speak, regarding the options for solving the problem, he said adding that both sides are interested in taking measures to further ease tensions, according to Armenian media outlets. He further noted that there cannot be a solution that can somehow disrupt the security of Karabakh. The only solution that works for us is that Karabakh should not be part of Azerbaijan. Never any Armenian leader can accept and implement such a decision, Sargsyan added. It should be noted that the sides were committed not to disclose any additional information on the talks and make statements. Such a behavior demonstrates once again that Armenia has no other aim than undermining negotiations and global efforts to resolve the crisis. Assistant to Azerbaijans president for foreign policy issues Novruz Mammadov said that the deal was that no statements were to be made other than on agreed points. Alas, Serzh Sargsyan is in his character again," he noted while commenting on the statement of the Armenian president following the Geneva meeting. "As usual, he feels privileged to violate the agreement that was reached during the talks. The deal was that no statements were to be made other than on agreed points. Yet he did just the contrary. Again, he made a promise and then failed to honor it. He should have at least been embarrassed, given the presence of the co-chairs and the OSCE representative. Apparently, he does not want to give up his habit of derailing the talks. Nevertheless, he [Sargsyan] is aware and must not forget that the Nagorno-Karabakh is Azerbaijans inalienable part and will remain so, Mammadov noted. Sargsyans plan will be realized neither in his lifetime, nor during the ones of his successors. His dream will never become a reality, no matter how hard he wags his tail to his patrons. Seemingly, he aims to keep the people in Armenia in the state of constant agitation and suffering. Well, let him keep on trying. he added. Armenia captured Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions from Azerbaijan in a war that followed the Soviet breakup in 1991. More than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed and nearly 1 million were displaced as a result of the war. Large-scale hostilities ended with a Russia-brokered ceasefire in 1994 but Armenia continued the occupation in defiance of four UN Security Council resolutions. In 1993, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted four resolutions (No. 822, 853, 874 and 884), condemning the occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan, reaffirming respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity, the inviolability of international borders and the inadmissibility of the use of force for the acquisition of territory. Peace talks mediated by Russia, France and the U.S. have produced no results so far. The illegal presence of the Armenian troops in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan remains the main cause of the escalation in the region and an obstacle to peaceful settlement of the conflict. SICO, licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional wholesale bank, and Benefit Company, the kingdoms conduit for all electronic financial transactions, have announced that retail investors will soon have seamless trading access to the Bahrain Bourse through the state-of-the-art sicolive online platform. The syncing of Benefits payment channels with sicolive allows investors to easily transfer funds from their retail bank accounts to their SICO investment accounts, offering an enhanced experience to retail investors in equity markets. Order management, position settlement, online access to trading accounts, and instant generation of statements are some of the other features offered through this first of its kind collaboration between Benefit and SICO, the leading broker and market maker on the Bahrain Bourse. The announcement follows the signing of an agreement between SICO Chief Executive Officer Najla Al Shirawi and Benefit CEO Abdulwahed Janahi, which will see the new service go live before the end of this year. The agreement covers accounts at all banks in Bahrain that are members of Benefit. Janahi said: We are happy to play a role in bringing this innovative new service from SICO to investors in the kingdom. I am sure that it will add tremendous value, giving bank customers convenience and access to SICOs sophisticated trading services and market leading research. Traders will be better informed and up to date on both their own transactions and on market movements, while being able to more easily fund transactions and manage them through electronic channels, no matter which banks they hold accounts in. Al Shirawi added: This is a further enhancement to our comprehensive, end-to-end sicolive online trading platform, which provides clients with brokerage, cash management, custody services, and more at the click of a button from their desktops or mobile devices. SICOs simplified investment account opening process and value added services allow users to make the most of equity market opportunities, giving them access to live newsfeeds, real time quotes, and instant access to all investment account and transaction information. This will further empower our clients, allowing them to make more informed and cost effective investment decisions. The long term result will be increased liquidity on the Bahrain Bourse and a healthier stock market overall by allowing small investors seeking better income and capital growth to easily build and control their investments. - TradeArabia News Service The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has committed an investment of up to $1 billion to India's National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF), according to a report. ADIA will become the first institutional investor in the NIIF Master Fund and a shareholder in the funds investment management company the National Investment and Infrastructure Limited, said the Indian Express report. The initial size of the fund, set up two years ago, is being expected to close at $2.1 billion, it said. ADIA is expected to bring in $200-250 million in the first fund and will invest the remaining portion in investment vehicles created by the NIIF, it said. The government is not providing any guarantee on returns and the investments will be done purely on commercial basis, a Finance Ministry official was quoted as saying in the report. DHL Express Saudi Arabia recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of bringing Saudi women into the company's fold. The company hired its first Saudi woman employee 10 years ago and followed up with the hiring of more than 70 women staff, including the companys first-ever female manager, the company said. DHL Express Saudi Arabia is dedicated to developing the local economy and society by empowering women in the work place, allowing them to assume responsibilities that are in line with their individual talents and that will provide them the experience necessary to ascend the corporate hierarchy, it said. Faysal Elhajjami, Saudi Arabia country general manager, said: The decision to hire females 10 years ago has had an unqualified favourable impact on our activities in Saudi Arabia. It is truly amazing to look back at those days in light of the fact that we now have 72 female employees, six of whom hold managerial positions, and we expect to continue to increase the number of female employees, not only in alignment with Vision 2030, but also for the benefits they bring to our efficiency and reputation, he said. The anniversary celebration took place at an exclusive resort in the Eastern Province with a full day of leisure activities. In the evening, the senior management team arrived to attend a formal dinner with the female team, said a statement. Elhajjami joined the gathering, congratulating the women on their perseverance and hard work and assuring them that they would enjoy DHL Express Saudi Arabias continued support. The evening was capped off with the presentation to every woman present of a customised letter of appreciation. DHL Express operates a large call centre in the Eastern Province with both male and female customer service agents. There are 60 female agents who work together in a dedicated facility separate from their male counterparts. DHL currently has a female presence in every function in the company, from operations to sales and human resources. Mohammed Al Jamea, DHL Express Saudi Arabia human resources director, said: We have been ahead of the curve in bringing competent, hard-working women onto their payroll. We have placed no barriers in the way of their advancement in the company and are very accommodating as far as recognising the specific needs of a female workforce, he added. TradeArabia News Service Oman's Tanfeedh, a national programme for enhancing economic diversification, has projected that the sultanates largest integrated dairy farm project currently under development at Al Sunainah in Al Buraimi Governorate has the potential to contribute as much as RO800 million ($2.07 billion) to the local and national economy over the next 10 years, said a report. Mazoon Dairy Company, a subsidiary of Oman Food Investment Holding Company (OFIHC), the governments food investment arm, is overseeing the establishment of the landmark project with an investment of around RO100 million ($259.7 million), added the Oman Daily Observer report. Construction work on the ambitious venture part of a slew of investments backed by the Omani government to help advance the nations food security objectives will officially kick off tomorrow (October 18), with a foundation-stone laying ceremony planned at the project site, it said. In attendance will be a number of government dignitaries, including Dr Fuad Jaffar al Sajwani, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, as well as the Governor of Buraimi and local walis. The event will pave the way for the formal commencement of the main construction package awarded to local contractor, Al Adrak Trading and Contracting LLC, at a cost of RO27.9 million ($72.4 million). It includes the construction of the main dairy farm, feeding centre, milking parlours, staff accommodation, management office building, utilities and connecting road network, it said. According to studies conducted by Tanfeedh, the Buraimi dairy project will not only help the sultanate dramatically reduce its dependency on dairy imports, but crucially, it will also have a positive impact on Omans Balance of Payments with regard to foodstuff imports, added the report. Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) has begun commercial operations at the $320-million Muscat-Sohar Product Pipeline (MSPP) project through its main fuel terminal in Al Jifnain. MSPP is one of Orpics strategic growth projects which will deliver more than 50 per cent of Omans fuel via the state-of-the-art storage facility. Orpic has reached a new milestone of MSPP and Al Jifnain Terminals commissioning as it has completed its first operational truck loading to the local oil marketing companies in Oman. The fuels are currently supplied by pipeline to the terminal from Orpics Sohar Refinery. Al Jifnain Terminal will serve as new hub for fuel supply to local marketing companies. The terminal will start to commercially supply aviation fuel by the year end through a direct pipeline to support the requirement of Muscat International Airport. In addition to meeting the domestic future demand for fuels, this project will increase the sufficiency of the fuel storage and reduced pollution resulting from lower truck movements in Muscat by 70 per cent. This is the first of its kind to be constructed in Oman removing the need for Orpic to ship refined products, and bringing a new level of efficiency and lower costs to its business. The project will also be equipped with loading facilities designed to cater to the loading of more than 500 trucks per day. - TradeArabia News Service Tendeka, a global leader in advanced completions and production optimisation, has been awarded two new contracts in the Middle East. The multi-million-pound agreements with the Abu Dhabi Onshore Operations Company (Adco) and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) will involve the supply of a range of specialised inflow control technologies. These technologies enable the effective management of the reservoir in horizontal wells to increase productivity and improve oil recovery. Adcos three-year contract, with a one-year extension, will involve Tendekas market-leading zonal isolation products, and full range of inflow control technologies, including their market-leading FloSure Autonomous ICD to be installed across all Adco fields. PDO has awarded Tendeka a multi-well trial and one-year deployment contract for the application of FloSure Autonomous ICD across Oman. Scott Watters, chief operating officer at Tendeka, said: These two awards from Adco and PDO, following on from our entry in to Kuwait, have firmly established Tendeka in the GCC. Our differentiating and innovative FloSure technology, combined with our global supply chain capability, has enabled us to bring real value to these major regional National Oil Companies. The multi-million-pound deal with Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) will involve Tendeka installing Advanced ICD equipment in 55 horizontal wells over two years in Northern Kuwait. Tendeka is the world leader in ICD technology and has installed over 7,000 passive ICDs and 20,000 autonomous ICDs globally. TradeArabia News Service Leading companies from the largest oil producing region outside Opec, the Commonwealth of Independent States, CIS, will be boosting their presence at this years Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (Adipec) targeting the event as a hub for global deal-makers. Two of Russias biggest oil and gas companies, Lukoil and Gazprom, have each confirmed substantial exhibition areas, with CEOs and other top-level decision makers leading their company delegations and taking part in strategic conference panels, reported state news agency Wam. They will be the biggest names among more than 30 Russian companies attending, many of them hosted at a Russian pavilion covering almost 600 sq m of exhibition floor space, almost six times the size of last years 105 sq m pavilion, stated the report. They will be joined by resource owners from other CIS members, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, as well as by oilfield services companies from the region. Based in countries that were once part of the Soviet Union, they will be using Adipec as a gateway to international expansion, said the report. "Russia is among the top 10 countries of the world in terms of oil reserves, and this has supported the growth of a highly sophisticated petroleum industry, from exploration and production, through to oilfield technology and services, transit, refining, distribution, and sales," remarked Lukoil President, Vagit Alekperov. "Russian companies are now actively expanding their international operations, and Adipec offers them access to global partnerships, including for new resources, new markets, and new investment," he noted. Alongside the big oil and gas producers, other well-known industry names attending the expo include SCADTech, Revalve, Intra, Transneft Diascan, OZNA, GazNefteMash, and PTPA. The Skolkovo innovation, science and technology cluster, based just outside Moscow, will also be an exhibitor. Stretching from the edge of Europe into Central Asia and across Siberia into the Russian Far East, oil and gas projects in the CIS area have already attracted substantial investment from multinationals. As the industry moves beyond resource extraction, local NOCs and private oil companies are using their assets to move deeper into midstream and downstream sectors, as well as expanding beyond their borders. Russias three largest operators lead this transformation. Rosneft, Lukoil and Gazprom now hold exploration, production and processing operations across the CIS and beyond, from Latin America to the North Sea, and from Africa to India and Southeast Asia, said the Wam report. They have made significant investments in the Mena region, including in Iraq, Egypt and Libya, and are negotiating for projects in other countries. Lukoil has expressed interest in Abu Dhabis offshore leases when these are extended from 2018, it stated. "Adipec is an essential destination for global oil and gas companies, so it makes sense that the big companies from the CIS come here," remarked Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, the CEO of Al Yasat and Adipec 2017 chairman. "We are located at the heart of the worlds most important oil and gas suppliers, so the biggest international customers, service companies, and investors, all come to the expo, and they all bring their most senior people," noted Al Shamsi. "We have a very strong presence from Asian markets, from India to China. Adipec is an opportunity to reach all of these of these markets and find new partners around the globe. Most importantly, the people who network at Adipec are the decision makers and they are here to do business," he added. Financial technology (fintech) could reduce the profitability of some business lines of GCC banks and change the way they operate over time, according to new report published by S&P Global Ratings. "Technological innovation in the financial sector is a global trend, reaching developed and developing economies alike," said S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Mohamed Damak, commenting on the report titled "The Future Of Banking: Could Fintech Disrupt Gulf Cooperation Council Banks' Business Models?. "While we don't expect major disruption of lending activity in the GCC--which remains concentrated on the corporate sector and by individual corporate borrowers--we think that fintech could impinge on retail banking, particularly money transfer and foreign-currency exchange. This would push some banks to adjust their operations through increased digitalization, branch network reduction, and staff rationalization," Damak added. However, we don't expect fintech alone to have a significant influence on our GCC banks ratings in the next two years. That's because we consider that banks will be able to adapt to their changing operating environment through a combination of collaboration with fintech companies and cost-reduction measures. We think that some banks are starting to realize the extent of the threats and opportunities that fintech poses, and are putting in place measures to adjust to the new realities of their operating environment. We also believe that regulators in the GCC will continue to protect the financial stability of their banking systems, he added. For the moment, we view fintech as the new competitor on the block, but not yet a game changer for banks' operations in the GCC. For that reason, it's not yet a negative rating driver over our rating horizon, which typically extends to two years, Damak said. However, we believe fintech will increasingly become a force to be reckoned with. The eventual impact on bank ratings will depend not only on how banks respond to the new competition and the particular vulnerabilities of their business models, but also on the response from authorities and regulators to fintech's growing clout, he concluded. TradeArabia News Service Huawei has announced the Huawei Mate 10 Series of smartphones, which will open the door to new AI mobile applications. The Huawei Mate 10, Huawei Mate 10 Pro, and Porsche Design Huawei Mate 10 are breakthrough AI devices that combine innovative hardware, the Kirin 970 chipset and EMUI 8.0. The Huawei Mate 10 Series continues its legacy of superior product performance and long-lasting battery life, while integrating New Leica Dual Camera technology. As we enter the age of intelligence, AI is no longer a virtual concept but something that intertwines with our daily life. AI can enhance user experience, provide valuable services and improve product performance, said Richard Yu, CEO, Huawei Consumer Business Group. The Huawei Mate 10 Series introduces the first mobile AI-specific Neural Network Processing Unit, launching a new era of intelligent smartphones. Key features include: Kirin 970, the worlds first AI processor for smartphones with a dedicated Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU); A 3D Glass Body featuring a barely-there-bezel, Huawei FullView Display and HDR10 supported technology for intensely vivid and brighter colours; TUV Fast-Charge Safety Certified Huawei SuperCharge and 4000 mAh battery with AI-powered Battery Management; New Leica Dual Camera with SUMMILUX-H lenses, with both featuring an aperture of f/1.6, and intelligent photography including AI-powered Real-Time Scene and Object Recognition and AI-powered Bokeh Effect; An all-new, simplified EMUI 8.0 based on Android 8.0. New accessories Huawei also launched three Huawei Mate 10 accessories: the EnVizion 360 Camera, SuperCharge Power Bank, and Smart Scale. The EnVizion 360 Camera can shoot 5K photos and 360-degree 2K videos with multiple viewing modes for users to share across their social media channels. SuperCharge Power Bank supports a 4.5V / 5A low-voltage fast charge, while the Smart Scale can monitor and analyze health information such as body fat percentage and Body Mass Index through a mobile app. The new Huawei Mate 10 will be available starting in late October in more than 15 countries and regions including Spain, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Singapore and Australia. The Huawei Mate 10 Pro will be available beginning in mid-November in more than two dozen countries, including Germany, France, Italy, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. The Porsche Design Huawei Mate 10 will also be available starting in mid-November. TradeArabia News Service The fleet size of operators in the Middle East is forecast to more than double from 1,250 to 3,320 aircraft over the next two decades, according to the Airbus Global Market Forecast. The Middle East will need some 2,590 new aircraft by 2036, for replacement of 520 older generation aircraft, and 2,070 aircraft for growth, 730 are expected to remain in service over the period. This demand includes 1,080 for twin-aisle aircraft, with the same number of single-aisle aircraft (1,080), and 430 very large aircraft. Overall, future demand for the Middle Easts fleet is valued at $600 billion from a total market value $5.3 trillion. The current orders from Middle East-based carriers stand at 1,319 aircraft, of which 687 are single-aisle, 409 twin-aisle and 162 very large aircraft. Passenger traffic to and from and within the Middle East will grow 5.9 per cent annually until 2036, well above the global average of 4.4 per cent. While traffic between traditional markets will grow at a steady rate, the highest growth is expected to be on routes to Latin America (8.5 per cent per year to 2036). Global freight traffic will see an annual 3.8 per cent increase to 2036. Freight traffic growth from the region is expected to be highest between the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific, with 4.0 per cent annual growth to 2036. Thanks to the A350, the A380 and also the A320 Family, most people around the world are just one flight away from the Middle East. The regions proximity to the worlds population and growth markets has been a key in its aviation success and Airbus is proud to have been a partner in its development from day one, said John Leahy, chief operating officer Customers, Airbus Commercial Aircraft. Today, 30 per cent of the people in emerging markets such as India, China and some countries in ASEAN take a least one trip by air on average and by 2036 this will grow to just over 80 per cent. At present, there are 58 aviation mega-cities across the globe, accounting for more than a million daily long-haul passengers. By 2036, there will be 95 mega-cities, catering to 98 per cent of the worlds long-haul services. The five mega cities existing today In the Middle will more than double to eleven over the next 20 years. TradeArabia News Service Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort was named Lebanons Hospitality Project of the Year 2017 during the 14th edition of the annual conference Business Warriors held by Lebanon Opportunities Magazine on October 11. Nadia Madi, director of Sales and Marketing at Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort said: A few months prior to the conference, the magazine representatives called upon the general public, their partners as well as their internal staff, to nominate companies in various categories. This year, the board received a large number of nominations for the hospitality sector and we are very proud to be selected for the best hospitality project achievement from Lebanon Opportunities. Daniele Vastolo, general manager at Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort, added: This recognition underscores the hard work, creativity and innovation of our team; an outcome for aiming to exceed our guest expectations at every opportunity. I am proud of our achievement and congratulate all our hard-working talents for their commitment to deliver unique guests experiences. - TradeArabia News Service Ranchers drilling for oil and gas on their property say they have a problem. When a well on state or private land drills into federally owned oil and gas resources, a switch is flipped and federal rules on drilling apply. Those rules can include a host of assessments, from judging how drilling impacts the environment, to how oil and gas development affects the view from Native American cultural sites, and those assessments cause delays. Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney is behind a push to increase state control of oil and gas permitting, decreasing the amount of legal red tape that companies have to wade through and freeing the average rancher from federal rules if a well on private land drills into federally owned minerals. Regulations can cause delays, invite federal oversight on private property and push up the price of doing business. For environmental groups and Native American tribes, those federal laws help protect resources that have nothing to do with the oil and gas industry. For operators, and some private landowners, those federal laws are costly duplications of state law and have led to the largest number of pending permits in the country in the Bureau of Land Managements Casper office. *** The Congresswomans bill addresses the private land issue, but raises a number of questions, even for those who want private and state land drilling to be freed of the most onerous of federal rules. The bill proposed by Cheney, the ONSHORE Act, lacks details at this point, said Mark Watson, Supervisor of the Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. Until the measure is fully fleshed out, and until it clears the House and heads to the Senate, Watson said he couldnt comment on it. But the idea of exempting a rancher or homeowner from the federal process when they drill a well that hits federal minerals outside of their property is one that the Commission is interested in, he said. We have our rules, and the feds have their rules for federal. But they would exert their rules on private surface, which from a common sense standpoint doesnt make sense, he said. Go out and talk to any rancher in the Powder River Basin and ask them how they feel. You get some pretty strong opinions. There is also a question of workload. Can Wyoming handle a bigger, more involved job when it comes to drilling? About half of oil and gas development takes place on federal lands or with federal minerals. And though the state right now often processes applications to drill in a fraction of the time that the federal agency does, it doesnt have to go to the same lengths judging the impact. Wyoming already processes applications to drill for oil and gas, including for federal wells in the state. It also has regulations on issues like venting and flaring or fracking. So in many cases, the state is already doing the job, Watson said. However, if Wyoming had to pick up some of the federal work load required by the National Environmental Policy Act, thats a different story, he said. If the BLM said Well, under primacy we want you to do all of this other stuff, wed have to think twice and say, Okay how much can we handle without hiring more people and all of that, he added. *** For groups like the Wyoming Outdoor Council, the Congresswomans bill is a matter of concern. A recent push from the new administration to open up public lands for development may be going too far, said Lisa McGee, director of the organization. No one use should be prioritized over any other, and that is clearly what this Administration is doing, she said. Its not even just about energy independence or efficiency, but mandated energy dominance. Thats problematic for those who value other things about public lands. McGee said she understood that the process takes more time on public land. And it should, she said. That balancing of resources is important and its what the American people expect. Id also say that if Congress would like to make some of those protocols more efficient, they could start by adequately funding the federal agency, McGee said. That would help them to get warm bodies in chairs, not only to do the permitting work thats important to some stakeholders, but also to do the monitoring and the resource management work that is important to others. There are other Wyoming voices watching the debate over federal influence on private lands, and its become a hot topic specifically in the Powder River Basin, where ranchers are struggling with the Bureau of Land Managements rules. One of the federal laws that comes into play is the National Historic Preservation Act, a law that protects, among other things, Native America sites on the surface. If a private landowner wants to drill a well that at some point drills into federally owned reservoirs of oil and gas, the BLM will look at the landscape on that property. If there is a tipi ring, a rock cairn, or other evidence of Native American heritage, the BLM is required to consult the tribes that have lived and traveled through the area. Ranchers have recently argued that this law violates private property rights, and a number of landowners in the Douglas area have declined to allow the tribes to look at sites. Their contention is that the BLM is considering anything on the surface as a detriment to the view of and from these sites, a rule too broad to be fair. Devin Oldman, of the Northern Arapaho Historic Preservation Office, argues that the National Historic Preservation Act plays an important role in protecting those places and the surrounding areas, he said. Oldman will speak at a committee hearing next week explaining the tribes position. He said tribal history should be granted the same protection as American cultural sites. Im not trying to stir up the political pot, he said. We just want our sacred places protected our history deserves the same treatment as George Washingtons house we deserve that. Thats what we believe, and thats why were working hard a lot nowadays to uphold this federal law. Congresswoman Cheneys bill is still in committee. It would need to pass in the House and the Senate before it approaches becoming a law. A spokesman for Cheney did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the Native American implications of her proposed legislation. Maria Katherman always wanted to be outside instead sitting still in desk at school. In ninth grade she took the bus with local science teachers Beecher Ed Strube and Dana Van Burgh on their Field Science summer program in 1969. Finally, she had a chance explore her curiosity about the natural world as the class examined plants, rocks, geology and animals. Strube and Van Burgh started the classes a few years earlier and responded to demand for sessions for older students, teachers and adults. They taught the classes for 52 years as they expanded them around the state and region. Fellow teacher Terrence Logue joined the two founders for about 40 years. In 1978, Strube and Dana Van Burgh published a book inspired by the classes, A Field Guide to the Casper Mountain Area with editor Peggy Knittel. Logue was among local contributors to that book along with Katherman, who by then worked as an assistant for Field Science Program while in college. He and Katherman still teach field science classes in the community. The two also co-authored the newly-released second edition and spent Saturday afternoon signing copies of the book with original authors, Strube and Van Burgh, at the Tate Geological Museum at Casper College. The field guide is a well-known publication in this area and treasured, but it was out of print, she said. So there was a lot of, I would call it clamoring, to update the book and bring forth the new science thats known. A guide to explore A Field Guide to the Casper Mountain Area covers the geology, plants and animals people will find in the area, along with a bit of local history, maps, mileage markers for driving and fold-out diagrams. The new edition adds new color photos, maps, artwork and diagrams as well as updated scientific knowledge including how the Rocky Mountains formed through plate tectonics. We include the geology, the biology and some of the history, Logue said. It seems like Casper Mountain is pretty popular, and I think people that dont have a science background or a history background picked it up and used it because it was fairly interesting. Logue spearheaded the new edition and wrote much of the geology updates, Katherman said. Several local science professionals also contributed to the new guide. Terry really writes it in a way you can understand it, Katherman said. Its accessible. And yet its real science; its the latest science. One of the things Logue enjoys about the second edition are new labeled photos that better show the contact points where different geologic formations meet, Logue said. The updates also include a color version of the original, to-scale cross-section diagram of Casper and Muddy mountains. Katherman, who spent most of her career in plant research, updated plant and animal sections with a little extra information such as medicinal purposes, she said. Readers can find facts in the book about the mountain from marmots to the tree species that change at different elevations. I hope everybody, no matter what theyre interested in, this can open a world thats just right there for us, Katherman said. An idea for generations Strube and Van Burgh looked out a window one day at Dean Morgan High School where they taught general science and mused about how to show students the science they learned in the classroom, Van Burgh said. They started the field science classes in 1964. So much of school was just in the classroom, Van Burgh said. Theres more to it than that. Not only did students learn the names and facts about the science, they were excited to keep exploring and learn more, Strube said. Booklets they made for students to reference became a book about the Alcova area and the Casper Mountain field guide. They get interested in it that way, and they know where to go now, Strube said. Experiencing the wildlife, plants and geology out in nature changed Kathermans world view, she said. Im kind of a feral human; I like to be outside, and I was outside every day, and that was my world, Katherman said. Seeing it from a scientific view as well as from a wild childs view, it enhanced my experience of the world. She also recalled the teachers raconteur over geology versus biology. Van Burgh would groan about another flower stop, she said, and Logue would play the straight man every good comedy team needs, she added. It was joyful to be on the bus with them, Katherman said. It really was just this constant banter. Cindy Farrell was among visitors on Saturday who also shared memories from the field science class. The former Spanish teacher recalled Strubes excitement about a leopard lily she brought into class in her specimen book. The flower with grass-like leaves is rare and hard to spot, but now she keeps an eye out for the flower each spring in her yard. Its one of many ways she still enjoys and understands more about Casper and Wyoming that she otherwise might not have, she added. It was all hands on, it was all positive and just with lots of energy, Farrell said. It was such a valuable experience. Kathleen Giangiacomo wasnt familiar with the classes, but she brought an original edition shes owned for about 10 years and picked up the new edition on Saturday. She and her family have used the book to explore the mountains minerals, rock formations and history, including the mines and homesteader Neal Forsling and mineral rocks on the mountain, she said. Strube and Van Burgh smiled as they shared memories, shook hands and signed copies of the book with the visitors. They hope A Field Guide to the Casper Mountain Area will keep encouraging people in Casper to explore and learn outdoors. If we can just get people to go out and look, amazing things will happen, Van Burgh said. Put the cell phone in the pocket and go sit on the hillside and just sit there for a while, look and listen. WASHINGTON - China's outward-looking vision will continue to bring about win-win scenarios for China and its partners across the world, including the United States, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai said on Monday. In an article published on CNN.com, Cui noted that China will hold the 19th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party this week, which will set China's national direction for at least the next five years. "This is a momentous time for China, not only because we expect that the party congress will illustrate that China's unrelenting effort in reform and opening up has added further momentum not only to its own development, but also to that of the world economy," Cui said in the article. China had previously shown the party congresses can be the beginning of tremendous determination and development, he said. Domestically, the Chinese people's life quality has seen a marked improvement, the ambassador noted, with the average life expectancy in China reaching 76.34 years in 2015 and more than 700 million people having been lifted out of poverty since 1978, according to the World Bank. Internationally, China remains a leading performer in economic growth, the ambassador added. China, especially since its last party congress, also has taken steps to increase contributions to international economic governance, through strong endorsement of globalization and free trade, and groundbreaking endeavors like the Asian Infrastructure Development Bank and the Belt and Road Initiative, Cui said. "Through approaches like these, we seek to bring the whole world forward by closing gaps in development and poverty -- which undermine global security -- while also engaging with partners like the United States in new and mutually constructive ways," Cui emphasized. The United States, as China's second largest trading partner, has benefited immensely from these initiatives, Cui noted. Cui also said: "While we have many areas of cooperation that promote global economic stability, there are still some issues that could threaten to weaken the relationship as a whole." "However, through dialogue, our two countries can address these concerns, which in turn will benefit the global economy," said Cui. China's success has demonstrated that an open and more prosperous China can benefit the world, Cui stressed, adding that its efforts will bring even bigger benefits to the US economy and the livelihood of the American people as China continues to develop its own economy and to strengthen the China-US economic relationship. "As we go into this week's Party Congress, we do so with great optimism and a high regard for our partnership with the United States. If we continue to work together in the economic sphere and beyond, the whole world is sure to benefit," Cui said. Wyomings tiny, all-Republican congressional delegation has split over whether to publicly support U.S. Sen. John Barrassos bid for reelection next year amid news that he may face serious primary challengers. Sen. Mike Enzi forcefully endorsed Barrasso last week, following statements from Jackson-based financier Foster Friess and Blackwater founder Erik Prince that they are considering running against the incumbent senator. But U.S. House Rep. Liz Cheney demurred, declining to comment on the race or to back Barrasso. Were not going to comment on a hypothetical 2018 Senate primary campaign, Cheney spokeswoman Maddy Weast wrote in an email. Rep. Cheney is working hard in the House to continue to make progress for the people of Wyoming and the only campaign Rep. Cheney is focused on is her reelection. Observers say that Cheney may be wary of tying her political prospects to Barrasso, a member of the Republican Senate leadership and a recent target of populist pro-Trump forces in the GOP. You dont want ... to be seen as if youre running on a ticket with John Barrasso, said longtime Republican political consultant Bill Cubin. You want to have your own race and let your own fortunes be up to you and not tie your fortunes to somebody else. Enzi released a thorough endorsement of Barrasso to media last week. I am not going to join in speculation about who is running for what, but an assessment of Senator Barrassos job performance? Excellent, Enzi wrote in a statement. Reports: Barrasso may face 2018 challenge from Blackwater founder Erik Prince, a prominent security contractor based in Virginia with strong connections to Pr Enzi praised Barrassos regular presence in the state and his legislative record, from Cheyenne to Washington, D.C. He attends more events in Wyoming to talk with people and to see specific problems than I think is physically possible. He knows Wyoming. He lives Wyoming and lives in Wyoming. ...He is already the chairman of a major Senate committee. That takes seniority. The man hardly sleeps as he works for Wyoming. He is an effective leader. Barrasso in crosshairs Several national media outlets have reported that former Trump adviser and current executive chairman of the far-right Breitbart News Steve Bannon has been seeking candidates, including Friess and Prince, to run against Barrasso. Bannon attacked Barrasso at an event in Mississippi over the weekend as a senator who voted correctly on legislation but did not adequately condemn Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tennessee, who has been feuding with President Donald Trump. Barrasso spokesman Bronwyn Lance Chester said in a statement last week that Barrasso disagreed with Corkers attacks on Trump. Senator Barrasso has worked closely with President Trump and will continue to be a strong ally in Congress, Chester said. The president reportedly likes Barrasso and considered him for a cabinet position earlier this month, before Barrasso withdrew his name from consideration. Cheney history Cheney was elected to the House last year after a brief and quickly aborted run against Enzi during the Republican primary in 2013. Before Cheney dropped out of that race, her presence divided Wyoming Republicans. It pitted her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, against Enzi and led to a public feud between former Wyoming U.S. Sen. Al Simpson and Liz Cheneys mother, Lynne. But observers dismissed the possibility that Cheney would run against Barrasso in the primary. Rep. Cheney is doing a great job in the House of Representatives, said former Wyoming GOP chair Matt Micheli. I know she and Sen. Barrasso work closely together virtually every day. Cubin said that Cheney was likely to enter the 2020 race for Enzis seat assuming that he retires. Enzi, 73, has made no formal statement on whether he will run for reelection, but Cubin said it was widely expected that he will not. Cubin added that while it is common to view Wyomings congressional delegation as a unit, given that it is composed of three Republicans who are in lockstep on most issues, it is more common for senators to come to one anothers defense than for a House representative to do so. Mike Enzi serves with John in the Senate, he said. And senators circle the wagon. CHEYENNE A roundup of wild horses continued Monday in the desert of southwestern Wyoming after a judge declined to stop it during a lawsuit over how the animals are counted. As of Sunday, U.S. Bureau of Land Management contract workers had rounded up 1,367 adult horses and 350 foals. The agency could reach its goal of capturing 1,560 adults plus the foals of captured mares this week, bureau spokeswoman Kristen Lenhardt said. The roundup is going on amid a dispute between horse advocates and federal officials over whether the foals should be included in the total count. U.S. District Judge Nancy Freudenthal last week denied a request by the American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign and two wildlife photographers to halt the roundup while their lawsuit against the bureau proceeds. The roundup in three remote areas began Sept. 23. The horse advocates failed to show that allowing the roundup to continue would cause irreparable harm, Freudenthal ruled. Delaying the gather would allow the wild horse population to expand, wasting the BLMs scarce resources invested in organizing the proposed gather and forcing the BLM to lose out on the costs it has already incurred, Freudenthal wrote. The horse advocates lawsuit claims the roundup cannot exceed 1,560 horses, including the foals. Lenhardt said the bureau was pleased with the judges decision. Gathering wild horses to a sustainable population is necessary to ensure quality rangeland conditions for the wild horse herds, she said. Horse advocates said they were disappointed. But they pointed out Freudenthal had yet to rule on the crux of the lawsuit that not counting foals toward the total would lead to rounding up hundreds more horses. This new tactic is a very different kind of approach compared to the way theyve done things previously, their attorney, William Eubanks, said Monday. Wild horses far exceed U.S. government population goals in many areas of the American West. The horses compete with cattle and sheep for forage. Ranchers for decades have demanded more action by federal officials to keep wild horse numbers down. Some rounded up horses are offered up for adoption. Others go to wild horse sanctuaries. Arby's, the "We Have the Meats" sandwich shop, has a new meat on its menu: deer meat. On Saturday, Oct. 21, Arby's locations nationwide, including Tucson's seven restaurants, will offer venison sandwiches. Each restaurant will get from 50 to 100 sandwiches and when they are gone, the promotion is over. Arby's officials anticipate the sandwiches will sell out fast, predicting that an hour after the restaurants open at 10 a.m. Saturday many will be sold out. This is the second year that Arby's has offered venison. It did it last October in five hunting-centric states and "some of those stores sold out in six minutes," said Jami Salyers, Arby's Tucson director of operations. "They had over a 100 people in line when they opened," she said. Salyers said she's curious to see the reception in Tucson. "We're curious to see how big the hunting community is here in Tucson," she said, noting that she has had inquiries into the store at 1530 W. Valencia Road from customers asking if they could reserve one of the 100 sandwiches available at that restaurant. Arby's venison sandwich features a thick-cut venison steak that's marinated in garlic, salt and pepper before it is sous-vide for three hours. The meat is topped with crispy onions and slathered with a juniper berry sauce made from a Cabernet steak sauce infused with juniper berries. The sandwiches sell for $7 apiece. "It's a pretty unique offering. With the inquiries we've been getting, I think they are going to sell out quick," she said. Salyers said she will juggle the number of sandwiches between her stores if she notices that one has a bigger demand than another. And if they don't sell out on Saturday, she said the venison is good for six days. Officials said Arby's, based in Atlanta, last year became the first ever fast-casual sandwich chain to offer venison meat. Its menu also includes roast bef and turkey, including its new deep-fried turkey. "Arby's is really trying to get the point out that we do have unique meats," Salyers said. Here are the Tucson restaurants and the number of venison sandwiches they will have available beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday: 7285 E. 22nd St. 100. 1530 W. Valencia Road 100. 7920 E. Speedway 100. 5275 S. Palo Verde Road 100. 5759 E. Broadway 50. 1830 W. Grant Road 50. 8060 N. Oracle Road 50. And in Sierra Vista, at 1999 E Fry Blvd. 100. Proposition 204, the initiative aimed at increasing the city sales tax by a half-penny to fund scholarships for preschool students, is the most expensive campaign in town. Strong Start Tucson, the campaign supporting the initiative, has raised far more than any other city issue or candidate this year, showing the fight over what has been dubbed Prop. 204 will be hotly, and expensively, contested. The campaign supporting the initiative has raised more than $300,000 so far and spent almost $200,000 in its quest to provide Tucsons 3- and 4-year-olds with high-quality preschool. Corporations, nonprofits and labor groups have pitched in roughly half of the campaigns funds so far, with the biggest donations coming from groups like Child and Family Resources, which has kicked in $78,000, not including the $21,000 that came from the nonprofits president and CEO, Eric Schindler and his wife. Many of the companies and nonprofits supporting the proposition would stand to possibly benefit if Strong Start Tucson were approved, including a host of child-care facilities that have donated to the cause so far. Much of the campaigns funding has also come from small contributions from individuals. The campaign reported raising $317,000 on its most recent campaign finance reports, but had overstated its total income due to an accounting error, according to campaign treasurer James Ratner. Much of Strong Start Tucsons funding has gone toward campaign consultants and campaign mailers, but the campaign has also spent heavily on digital media through Univision Communications. Meanwhile, the opposition campaign, No On Prop. 204, funded mostly by Tucson auto dealer Jim Click, has raised more than $113,000, according to the latest round of campaign finance reports filed with the city. Click and affiliated groups, such as the Tuttle-Click Automotive Group and Phoenix-based Tucson New Car Dealers Association, have thrown more than $40,000 into the campaign to defeat Prop. 204. The Southern Arizona Leadership Council and the Hotel Corporation of Downtown Tucson have contributed another $25,000 each. And while the campaign against the initiative has only raised a third of what Strong Start Tucson has, it has done it in quick time. The No On Prop. 204 campaign filed to form an official committee only at the end of September, while Strong Start Tucson has been collecting contributions since November 2016. Unlike the campaign supporting Prop. 204, the anti-Prop. 204 campaign has raised money only from big ticket donors, according the campaign finance reports. Americans For Prosperity, a conservative political action group funded by Charles and David Koch, also joined the fray in Tucsons Prop 204, recently urging Tucsonians to sign a petition opposing the measure. Tom Jenney, the senior legislative adviser for the Arizona chapter of Americans for Prosperity, did not return calls for comment. Much of the No On Prop. 204 campaigns funding has been spent on mailers arguing that theres a lack of accountability in the way the initiative, if approved, would spend money. The Pima County Sheriff's Department identified Deputy Chance Kennedy as the SWAT team member who fired the fatal shot killing an armed domestic violence suspect in Picture Rocks Monday. Kennedy is a nine-year veteran of the department, said Deputy Cody Gress, a department spokesman. Luis David Flores, 34, was shot and killed during a Special Weapons and Tactics team call that lasted more than five hours in the rural community northwest of Tucson. Authorities responded to a domestic violence dispute before 7 a.m. in the 11000 block of West Massingale Road, northeast of the intersection of West Picture Rocks Road and North Sandario Road, Gress said. Deputies received information that a mother was kicked out of the house by her son and a weapon was involved, said Gress. The son, who later was identified as Flores, barricaded himself in the house. Deputies saw that Flores had a handgun before he barricaded himself, Gress said. It was believed Flores had multiple weapons in the house and the Special Weapons and Tactics team was called out. Authorities negotiated with Flores to "peacefully resolve the situation," but Flores refused to surrender, said Gress. Flores walked out of the house several times with a gun in his hand, Gress said. He said at about 2:30 p.m. Monday Flores came out of the house, but this time had a gun in each hand. Flores refused multiple commands to drop the weapons before "he was shot by a deputy who was a member of the SWAT team," said Gress. Flores was given aid by SWAT medical personnel before he was taken to Banner-University Medical Center Tucson where he was pronounced dead a short time after his arrival, Gress said. The investigation is continuing, and Kennedy has been placed on administrative leave, which is departmental procedure while a criminal and department administrative investigation proceeds. Gress said he did not know if deputies had previously responded to domestic violence calls at the home. Caridad Community Kitchen will celebrate its newly expanded facility on Wednesday, Oct. 18. The kitchen, a program of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, provides meals for various meal programs, a 10-week culinary training program for unemployed and underemployed individuals and a catering service. The space was expanded from about 1,000 square feet to 3,000 square feet. This expanded kitchen, at 845 N. Main Ave., will use the space to increase the number of meals prepared by the program. The number of meals prepared at Caridad will jump from about 168,000 a year to 500,000 annually, the food bank said. These include after-school dinners for children and meals for seniors and the homeless. Students in the culinary program will now prepare free community meals in a commercial kitchen equipped for expanded production. Also, the Caridad Culinary Training Program is competing in the Tucson Electric Power Powerful Choice Challenge, which will award $125,000 to the nonprofit that receives the most online votes through 6 a.m. Oct. 25. People over the age of 18 who live in Pima County are eligible to vote once daily during this time at tep.com The anti-gun violence group created by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords now bears her name, along with a new mission to inspire people to take action. Americans for Responsible Solutions, founded five years ago after the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, adopted Giffords as its new name and created a new website, the group announced Tuesday. Initially, the focus of the group was finding responsible ways to end gun violence, Mark Kelly, husband to Giffords and former NASA astronaut, said in a conference call Tuesday. The new name shows the focus of the group has expanded to helping people find the courage to act, he said, and Gabby exemplifies courage. Giffords was one of 19 people wounded in a mass shooting in 2011 during a meet-and-greet at a Tucson-area grocery store. Six people were killed. However, Kelly said the movement to end gun violence is not about just Giffords. Instead, its about everybody fighting for safer communities. Every day I meet brave Americans who are standing with me in the fight for a safer future from law enforcement officers and military veterans, to parents, community leaders, and concerned voters, Giffords said in a news release. The group is fighting pushes in Congress to make firearm silencers easier to obtain and to allow people to carry concealed firearms across state lines. The organization played a role in passing more than 200 gun laws in 45 states and D.C. in the past four years, said Peter Ambler, executive director of Giffords. Last year, Americans for Responsible Solutions joined with California-based Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, founded in 1993 after eight people were killed and six wounded in a shooting at a San Francisco law firm. The center is now known as the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. The organizations political arm, Giffords PAC, informs voters about legislation, endorses candidates in key races, educates candidates on gun policies, and runs campaigns to shine a spotlight on elected officials who support dangerous gun laws, the news release said. One such campaign was spending $2.6 million in the U.S. Senate race in New Hampshire to defeat Sen. Kelly Ayotte. Tucson City Councilman Steve Kozachik says he doesnt regret his decision to refuse donations in his re-election bid in Ward 6. But his Republican rival, architect Mariano Rodriguez, raised more than $21,800 in September and a total of $33,563 since starting his campaign, according to reports filed with the City Clerks Office. Rodriguez spent a fraction of that amount last month $1,451 mostly on consulting and campaign signs. That leaves him with more than $20,385 for his campaign in the final weeks before the November general election. More than half of the amount he raised last month $12,500 came from public matching funds from the city. His campaign also reported $7,295 in individual donations. Rod- riguez, the only Republican running for a seat on the City Council, said he had a pretty good month regarding fundraising. Democrat Kozachik also filed a campaign finance report, telling city officials he had spent $140 out of the $200 he put into his campaign account at the beginning of his campaign for a third term. When he began his campaign, he said he wanted to run on his record and asked supporters to give any money they would have given to his campaign to local nonprofits. On Monday, Kozachik said he continues to tell his supporters to donate to local charities. Fundraising was lighter in the Ward 3 race, meanwhile, with the three campaigns reporting they took in a total of about $19,000 last month. Paul Durham, who won the Democratic Ward 3 City Council primary race and spent more than $86,000 in his bid to replace outgoing Councilwoman Karin Uhlich, reported $9,525 in individual donations between Sept. 5 and Sept 30 and that another $2,125 came from public matching funds. The campaign spent $3,235 during the same period, with $11,832 in campaign coffers in the final weeks before the general election. Durhams campaign manager said the cash on hand is closer to $20,000, as the city gave the campaign a check for roughly $9,500 shortly after the reporting period ended. Gary Watson, a firefighter with Northwest Fire District who is running as an independent, received $2,665 in donations from individuals and another $4,000 in donations from political action committees. Four separate $1,000 checks came in from firefighter-backed PACs out of Phoenix, according to reports filed with the City Clerks Office. Watsons campaign spent $3,510 between Aug. 13 and Sept. 30 and had $12,592 in its campaign chest. Green Party candidate Mike Cease reported receiving $785 in donations last month, with $500 coming in the form of a check from the local Green Party chapter. The Cease campaign spent $308 last month, with half going to campaign buttons. In September 2015, news that gravitational waves were detected after two black holes collided made a splash in the scientific community. Ninety-nine years before, Albert Einstein theorized that if the fabric of the cosmos was really a four-dimensional mesh of space and time as described in his theory of general relativity, then any object with mass can warp space-time, creating what we call gravity. If two very massive objects, such as black holes collided, then they would cause a ripple in the fabric of space time dramatic enough for astronomers to detect in the form of gravitational waves. The 2015 discovery by the Large Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) was touted as a new way to do astronomy. Until that point, the only way astronomers could gather information about the universe was by analyzing light collected with telescopes. Now, however, astronomers announced that they have seen a cosmic event in both gravitational waves and, more significantly, light. On Aug. 17, a collision of two neutron stars, the extremely dense corpses of stars more massive than our sun but not quite massive enough to become black holes, collided. The event was seen by gravitational wave detectors, including the two LIGO sites in Washington and Louisiana and the Virgo interferometer in Italy, as well about 70 observatories around the world searching the skies across the spectrum of light. Its a new way to look at the universe, combining two different methods, said David Sand, University of Arizona assistant professor of astronomy. Sand is also the principal investigator of the Distance Less Than 40 Megaparsec (DLT40) survey, one of the teams running an observatory that followed up the gravitational wave detection alert. The event has sent the astronomical community into a frenzy. About 50 papers alone were published on Monday, Sand said. Yeah, people are going bananas. This discovery not only generated new knowledge, but confirmed many theories. And, typical of science, many more questions arose. Luck favors the prepared A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, two neutron stars slowly inched toward each other in their orbital dance. As time passed, they spun faster and faster as they moved closer and closer. In their last seconds, they neared the speed of light and finally collided with unimaginable energy, sending ripples through space and time. Traveling at the speed of light, both the gravitational waves and the light produced from that collision reached Earth 130 million years later, on Aug. 17, 2017. Sands DLT40 survey images 500 galaxies a night, hunting for supernovas. In addition to its normal supernova survey, the team, and many others around the world, also has a deal with LIGO to follow up any gravitational wave signals it might detect. That night, Stefano Valenti, project scientist for the DLT40 survey, received a LIGO alert to find the event hidden in a large region of the sky. Valenti instructed the robotic telescope to point the souped-up 16-inch optical telescope called PROMT in Chile low in the sky, along the horizon, Sand said. Sand was watching Rogue One: A Star Wars Story on the treadmill at the gym the night he got a message saying, Hey, theres something there. And Im like, OK whatever, its probably an asteroid, Sand remembers saying. Get another image. We did and it was still there. I was freaking out. The DLT40 team was the second to observe the event, but the third to post its observation, because team members couldnt get hold of the graduate student who was usually tasked with posting their observations to the LIGO bulletin. We were like, We need to post this now and he was the only one with a password. He was out driving somewhere with his wife, Sand said, laughing, as he remembered the tension of the moment. Were like, Dude! This is important! (We) started to see the evolution of the object was different, Valenti said. It was evolving much faster than other objects, growing dimmer faster than supernovas do. This was the most exciting thing in my career. A multifaceted discovery The event has ushered in a slew of discoveries and new questions. Among them, and the most fundamental, is the new form of multimessenger astronomy that arose from this event, gravitational waves plus light. This event will also teach astronomers much more about mysterious neutron stars. One of such solved mysteries includes the confirmation that roughly half of the elements heavier than iron, including gold and platinum, are generated in the explosion debris called the Kilonova. The other half of heavy elements are formed in supernova explosions. Kilonovas were also observed for the first time in this event. Kilonovas are like the middle-children of the Nova family, between Supernovas the brightest and longest-lived and Novas the dimmer and shorter-lived. Sands team is focusing its research on refining the expansion rate of the universe, which is known to be increasing with time. The team is on a Nature paper. Its not competitive yet with other techniques, but once we have a couple dozen of these things, it will be, Sand said. So what can be next for gravitational wave astronomy? Astronomers want to get more detectors online. In the next few years, detectors will be added in Japan and India. In 2015, LIGO was just two detectors in the United States. With the addition of the Virgo interferometer, the triangulation of gravitational wave sources has gotten better. But the more detectors, the more precisely the event source can be pinned down. And the more powerful these detectors get, the further out they can see. If the distance at which these events can be detected is doubled in all directions, astronomers wont see double the number of events they will actually be able to see eight times as many. Its all about the long game, Sand said. In the editorial reluctantly opposing Prop 204, Strong Start Tucson, you affirmed the need for affordable, high-quality child care and acknowledged the investment it represents for the future. You note that no one else has been working on this issue. Weighed against the benefits, your points of concern seem overly fearful and/or remediable. This measure would make Tucson a leader in strengthening educational opportunities for our children at the point when brain development is most active. If defeated, it is unlikely that this issue will be raised again for some time because of the incredible effort required to mount such a campaign. As an advocate for children, I was deeply disappointed in your decision. I am even more disturbed by the expensive campaign the business community has financed to defeat this measure. It is a shame that profit is being placed ahead of people. Voters, please visit the Strong Start website and decide for yourselves! How low can the president go with one of the most egregious lies he has ever told regarding President Obama and other Presidents not calling or writing the families of our fallen Soldiers. His statement is beyond the pale and goes to show how much he hates our former President. Both Bush and Obama not only called, but visited the hospitals grave sites. And met with families in person. What makes their honoring our fallen soldiers so profound is that they were humble emphatic and made sure it was never about them. They truly honored our soldiers and their families and showed the respect they were due. Something our current president is incapable of. So who is going to call out these Bold-face putrid lies Joseph Morgan is another "right" leaning Republican. He has all the "typical attributes". Anti-abortion, pro-gun, etc., etc.. Here's the thing, Mr. Morgan, we always hear from your side, after a shooting tragedy, that there's nothing to be done. This time after, Las Vegas, no reason to ban bump stocks, like Councilman Kozachik has suggested. You know what, all we hear from your side, Mr. Morgan, is nothing at all. Instead of telling us, there's no need for more gun control, why don't you "pro-gun" types, have another answer, to help stop these horrible GUN tragedies. Because you don't, have an answer, and you know what, if they regulate our food (thank god), and our air, and water, then surely it is time for sensible gun control. BANGKOK, Oct 17 -- It seemed a simple statement: women should not die from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. Yet two years after world leaders agreed to 17 global goals at the United Nations, including the childbirth target, countries in Asia Pacific are grappling to twin the rhetoric with social, cultural and political realities. An estimated 85,000 mothers died in 2015 from childbirth in the region, home to more than half of the worlds population and some of its fastest growing economies, U.N. figures show, with the maternal mortality rate seen as a key way to measure improvement in a nations health. These deaths accounted for 28 percent of the global total, translating into a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 127 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the U.N. agency for population UNFPA, which released its latest State of the World Population Report on Tuesday. Up to 90 percent of these deaths occur in 12 countries, according to UNFPA whose officials have calculated which are likely to meet the global target of reducing its MMR to below 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Bangladesh, Laos, East Timor and Indonesia are seen as likely to meet the deadline. But Afghanistan, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Myanmar, Pakistan, India, Cambodia and the Philippines, are seen as failing to reach the target by varying degrees. Reducing maternal deaths requires political will, government foresight and access to family planning, according to campaigners. (This is) an issue thats still too often seen as medical, and strictly related to womens life. Its not, Federica Maurizio, a sexual health and reproductive rights expert at UNFPA in Bangkok, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Maternal health ... is one of the key indicators that really tells you how much the health system in a country is able to provide for the people. Oona Campbell, professor of epidemiology and reproductive health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said it raises wider issues of womens place in society. Do we care about women? Do we think its not a problem if the wife dies? Is this something we care about enough to deliver services that are good quality? she said. Too good to be true? Campbell said it was not entirely accurate to chart a countrys progress using a global goal. Another way to measure progress, she suggested, was to use country level targets, such as aiming to reduce maternal deaths by at least two-thirds from 2010, and for no country to have an MMR greater than 140 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Campbell also cautioned that data is weak in many countries due to a lack of civil registration and poor cause-of-death records. This could mean calculations of Afghanistans dramatic improvement, hailed as one of the gains of foreign aid there, may be an overestimate, said Campbell. U.N. figures showed the maternal mortality rate had dropped to 396 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2015 from 1,600 deaths in 2002 after the U.S.-led invasion that ousted the Taliban after the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001. But Afghanistans own data put its MMR three times higher. Mateen Shaheen, UNFPAs deputy representative in the country, said womens access to healthcare in Afghanistan remained tricky as culture dictates that women are only seen by female healthcare workers. UNFPA operates 124 clinics staffed by women and aims to nearly double that by the late 2018. Meanwhile, the maternal mortality rate has been almost flat in the past 25 years in the Philippines, a wealthier nation than Afghanistan. In 2015, there was 114 deaths for every 100,000 births with 2,700 women dying in childbirth despite an increase in skilled birth attendants and access to anti-natal care. A law was passed in 2012 insuring access to contraception, sexual education and maternal care but it has been mired in legal challenges, said Klaus Beck, UNFPA country director in the Philippines. The Philippines is the only Southeast Asian country where teenage pregnancies are not falling which Beck said could also impact maternal mortality with the risk for mothers under the age of 15 in low- and middle income countries double that for older women. The absence of a legal framework ... to provide access to family planning, particularly for the poorest, has always been a stumbling block for many, many years, in the disaster- and conflict-prone archipelago, said Beck. U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to pay an official visit to Hanoi and have talks with his Vietnamese counterpart during an Asia tour next month, the White House announced on Monday. The five-country tour, with a stop in Hawaii, was first unveiled on September 29 but Mondays update provides further details about Trumps itinerary, according to the White House Press Secretary. The U.S. head of government is scheduled to touch down in the central Vietnamese city of Da Nang on November 10. There, he will participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders Meeting and deliver a speech at the APEC CEO Summit, the announcement reads. In the speech, Trump will present the United States vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing Americas economic prosperity. On November 11, Trump will travel to Hanoi for an official visit and bilateral engagements with Vietnams State President Tran Dai Quang and other senior Vietnamese leaders. President Trumps Asia trip will take place between November 3 and 14, during which he will travel to Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii, besides Vietnam. Trump will be the fourth sitting U.S. president to pay an official visit to Vietnam since 1975, following his predecessors Bill Clinton (2000), George Bush (2006), and Barack Obama (2016). Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A former member of Vietnams lawmaking National Assembly (NA) has been sentenced to life in prison for masterminding a real estate fraud worth over US$16 million. The Hanoi Peoples Court announced the decision on Monday following the two-week trial of Chau Thi Thu Nga, 52. The jury considered Nga, who was a member of the NA during the 2011-16 tenure, the mastermind who had given directions to her accomplices and fully benefited from the money she appropriated from her victims, and thus sentenced her to life imprisonment. Nga is also the chairwoman of the Land and Housing Construction and Investment JSC (Housing Group). Eight other defendants received jail terms between 24 months and seven years for their involvement in the fraud. Dinh Phuc Tieu, former chief accountant of Housing Group, was given a suspended sentence. Chau Thi Thu Nga stands trial on October 16, 2017. Photo: Tuoi Tre According to the indictment, Nga gave inaccurate information regarding the real estate project B5 Cau Dien in Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi, which was developed by Housing Group, and sold properties included in the project before it was approved by the relevant authorities. Between 2009 and 2013, Nga and her accomplices signed contracts of investment mobilization with over 700 clients, worth a total of VND377 billion ($16.5 million). The victims then reported that they were not given ownership of the properties as agreed. Nga refunded about VND28.7 billion ($1.25 million) to 43 clients but re-appropriated the rest of the money, totaling more than VND348 billion ($15.2 million). The land where the B5 Cau Dien project is expected to be built is now filled with grass and trees. Photo: Tuoi Tre The court has asked the authorities to further investigate Ngas statement that she had spent VND47.5 billion ($2 million) lobbying for her companys projects as well as for her appointment as a member of the NA. So far, those who Nga claimed to have received money have asserted that they were not involved. Regarding compensation, both Nga and Housing Group are responsible for returning VND242 billion ($10.6 million) to 501 victims. Nga will have to pay over VND54 billion ($2.37 million) while the company will refund the remainder. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A project to turn Ho Chi Minh City into a smart city has been submitted to the municipal Peoples Council for feedback, with the hope that it will bring multiple benefits to local residents. The plan is scheduled for the 2017-20 period with a vision for 2025, and is expected to provide a variety of conveniences for citizens, including low energy costs, favorable traffic systems, and easier interaction with local authorities, among others. The smart city model has been piloted at Quang Trung Software City (QTSC) in District 12 over the past two years, where workers have been assisted in their daily tasks by various technology applications. Hoa, who lives in Go Vap District and works at QTSC, starts her working day at 8:00 am. Upon arriving at the entrance to her workplace, a camera system records the license plate number of Hoas motorbike. The woman then walks into her office, where all the lights and air conditioners are automatically switched on. Hoas computer then updates her on meeting and business trip schedules, along with important files and documents via an application installed on the device. According to Lam Nguyen Hai Phong, director of Quang Trung Software City Development Company, about 150 IT businesses with over 20,000 employees work inside the 43-hectare venue. All electricity, telecommunication, lighting, drainage, and green trees within the premises are digitized and connected to achieve more efficient management. An app has been designed to facilitate the effort, providing businesses with easy access to all the necessary information. However, there are still challenges in linking separate data, Long said. We have spent two years compiling the database as well as training our staff. Residents complete administrative procedures for land ownership at the Peoples Committee in Tan Phu District, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre First steps The smart city project in Ho Chi Minh City will focus on four central pillars, namely an open data center, operations center, forecast center, and information security center. Similar to the model at QTSC, all digitized information in the southern metropolis will be connected and stored in a massive database, Long elaborated. The process requires multiple steps, he said, adding that the model should prioritize administrative reform and improvement of the local investment environment. Upon completion, the smart city model will deliver a series of benefits, including low energy costs, favorable traffic systems, higher-quality education, transparent business environments, easier interaction between citizens and authorities, and an improvement in competition and living conditions, Long elaborated. Regarding the management of local land plots, the company director stated that a specialized database could be completed in two years. This would allow residents the ability to search for all information including the legal status of a piece of land they intend to buy without having to go to local land offices. According to Tran Trong Tuan, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction, the smart city plan is a long-term project. We have to change the habit of communicating through paper to communicating via electronic networks, Tuan stated. The agency has been offering online services, which is the first step in entering the era of the smart city, the official remarked. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! As of Monday, Ho Chi Minh City has banned all pork of unknown origin from being sold on the local market. Last November, it was announced that Ho Chi Minh City consumers would be able to scan QR codes on pork packaging to obtain information regarding its origin. This included where the pig was raised, when and where it was slaughtered, and from which wholesale market its meat was distributed. The initiative was officially launched citywide in January, promising to bring significant improvements in food hygiene and food security. However, ten months later, the initiative has received only lukewarm support from pork merchants and local veterinary inspectors. According to a representative of the municipal Department of Industry and Trade, only around 20 percent of the 8,000-8,500 pigs traded each night at the citys two major wholesale markets, Hoc Mon and Binh Dien, have origins traceable via the QR scan. This is despite the fact that 80-90 percent of the pigs sold do have tracking tags attached. Pigs have tracking tags attached to their hind legs at a collection point in Dong Nai Province. Photo: Tuoi Tre Each tracking tag has a unique QR code printed on it, which pig farms must activate and attach to the hind legs of their pigs before selling them to merchants. In theory, the QR code should help track a pigs journey from farm to slaughterhouse and then on to the wholesale market, before it arrives on supermarket shelves or market stalls. However, in reality, farmers and merchants are attaching the tracking tags for show only, and are failing to activate the code printed on them. Veterinary inspectors have their hands tied when dealing with such cases, as current laws do not allow them to stop a swine from being slaughtered because of a lack of information on its tracking tag. Provided the animal has a valid health certificate and shows no sign of disease at the time of inspection, the animal can be still be sold to the market. A pig is seen without tracking tags at a farm in Dong Nai Province. Photo: Tuoi Tre According to Nguyen Ngoc Hoa, deputy director of the municipal Department of Industry and Trade, the new regulation banning pork of unknown origin will provide the necessary legal grounds for authorities to tighten controls over the quality of meat. Hoa expects the move to improve consumer trust in the citys food safety standards, particularly in the wake of news that thousands of pigs were discovered being injected with sedatives shortly before slaughter in the southern hubs largest slaughterhouse. Though all of the sedated pigs have been scheduled for incineration, the scandal shook the publics view of the popular meat. Now is a good time to implement this regulation, Hoa said. Supply is currently bountiful, which means we can rid the supply chain of anyone who doesnt meet the new standards. The city is determined to turn our words into action. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The per capita income in Ho Chi Minh City is projected to reach US$9,800 in 2020 if the city is able to maintain a healthy gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth rate of at least 8.5 percent yearly. The numbers were announced on Wednesday last week by Tran Vinh Tuyen, deputy chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee, at a conference to promote investment in the city. According to Tuyen, the city made remarkable economic progress between 2011and 2015, recording an average GRDP growth rate of 9.6 percent yearly over the period 1.66 times higher than the national average. With the help of a continued transition from agriculture to industry and services, the southern hub is set to post an average yearly GRDP growth rate of 8.5 percent between 2016 and 2020, Tuyen said. By the beginning of the next decade, services will have accounted for 56-58 percent of Ho Chi Minh Citys GRDP, he added. Based off those projections, the citys per capita income in 2020 is forecast to top $9,800, up 22.5 percent from a 2014 prediction of only $8,000. A night view of Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre Ho Chi Minh City, which covers 0.63 percent of Vietnams total area, currently accounts for 21 percent of the countrys GDP and contributes to one-third of the state budget, Tuyen noted. The city also attracts roughly half of Vietnams foreign visitors and 30 percent of its foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country. In 2016, Ho Chi Minh City exported $31.8 billion worth of products to foreign markets following an average yearly export growth rate of six percent during the 2010-16 period. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Starting next month, British nationals in Vietnam will no longer be able to have certain types of documents legalized in Vietnam but must have the legalization done in the UK instead. British nationals usually have documents, such as university degrees, teaching qualification certificates and UK police checks, legalized by the British Embassy in Hanoi and the Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City. However, from November 13, these documents must be legalized by the UK Legalization Office and then by the Vietnamese Embassy in London, the British Embassy in Hanoi announced on Tuesday. Weve made these changes to ensure that we comply fully with the requirements of the Vietnamese authorities, the announcement reads. The embassy explained further that the changes will also free up time for our Consular staff to provide more support to our most vulnerable customers, for example, minors, the elderly, people with mental health problems, and victims of serious crime. The diplomatic mission recommended that British nationals planning to come to Vietnam to work check with their employers and the Vietnamese authorities exactly what documents they need to be able to work here, and then get those documents legalized, before moving to Vietnam. Detailed information on how to do this can be found on the UK Legalization Office website: https://www.gov.uk/get-document-legalised and on the Vietnamese Embassy website http://www.vietnamembassy.org.uk/. The embassy noted that there are also a number of commercial providers that can arrange this process for those in need. Except for this change, the British Embassy in Hanoi will continue to provide other notarial and documentary services to British nationals in the Southeast Asian country, according to the announcement. A full list of these services can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/notarial-and-documentary-services-guide-for-vietnam#services-we-provide-in-vietnam. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A Vietnamese Airlines (VNA) plane en route from Hanoi to Paris was forced to make an emergency landing in India on Monday (Vietnam time) after a passenger required urgent medical attention. According to a VNA spokesperson, crew members were notified of a passenger developing health problems about four hours after the plane took off from Hanois Noi Bai International Airport for New Delhi at 11:10 pm on Sunday. The Vietnamese-French passenger, identified only by their her L.T.Q.N., reportedly received first aid from the flight attendants and a fellow passenger who was a trained physician. However, as L.T.Q.N.s condition worsened, the captain decided to make an emergency landing in New Delhi at around 4:00 am on Monday. The ill passenger was rushed to hospital shortly after landing, and the airline made contact with her family to inform them of the passengers condition. According to the VNA spokesperson, L.T.Q.N.s health state has since stabilized. Flight VN19 resumed its journey at 11:00 am on Monday and landed safely in Paris at 3:00 pm (local time) the same day. Passengers who missed their connections in France due to the eight-hour delay were assisted in re-booking their flight by VNA ground services. In January, another VNA plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Indias Kolkata in order to help a passenger who had fainted onboard. Last year, the state-owned carrier was praised for delaying one of its flights by 80 minutes to install a stretcher for transporting a seriously injured passenger from Myanmar to South Korea for surgery, when no other airlines could agree to ferry the man. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Crime and period dramatisations are have been all the rage in recent times: Unabomber, The Menendez Murders, True Detective, Aquarius, American Crime to name a few. The latest, Mindhunter from director David Fincher, is based on the memoir of FBI veteran John R. Douglas. The cases may be fictional but the 1970s backdrop reveals the bureaus early work in behavioural science. Jonathan Groff (Looking) plays agent Holden Ford (yes, really) who is teamed with veteran agent Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) in the Behavioural Science Unit. Ford becomes fascinated with new sociological evidence that suggests serial killers and extreme criminals are more than just bad apples. Are criminals born that way or are they formed? In the 1970s the FBI and police forces saw no reason to look beyond the former. As far as the FBI is concerned psychology is for backroom boys, unit chief Shepard (Cotter Smith) insists. But at the age of 29 Ford enrols in a university course to open his eyes to new theories. If he can understand the criminal mind, maybe he can help capture or prevent the worst amongst society. For the decidedly-square Ford, university and its free-spirited campus makes him a fish out of water. Meanwhile he is partnered with Tench to criss-cross America giving lectures to rank and file cops about new behavioural methodology. That even extends to screenings of Dog Day Afternoon, famous for its bank hostage negotiation scenes with Al Pacino. In Iowa one unsolved local case, surrounding a mother & child, leaves the pair baffled. Ford soon immerses himself deeper and deeper in questions of motive, mind and murder, but at the risk of making it his personal quest. Fincher contrasts the awakening of this dark world for Ford with a sexual awakening through his student girlfriend Debora (Hannah Gross). The 70s will prove a liberating time for this young man. Also set to appear is Anna Torv as psychologist Dr. Wendy Carr. The drama by Joe Penhall (Blue/Orange) wonderfully captures the vernacular and period behaviour of the 70s, from smoking in restaurants and planes to hip phrases like jive talk and honey trap. The soundtrack features everything from 10CC to Toto, Saturday Night Fever and even Little River Band. Groff is effortless as the driven young agent, so straight in his appearance he is mistaken as Mormon. After such torrid sexuality in Looking its quite the performance to see him having heterosexual sex here. Holt McCallany steps up as co-star, bringing an earthiness to the partnership. Early episodes dont descend into the horrors of Seven, nor the intensity of the genre-defining Silence of the Lambs, but given the set-up Im expecting it wont be too long before we do. Its pretty clear this wont just be a quaint reminder of how the FBI came to appreciate the benefits of psychology, but were pushed to the brink at a deeply personal level, in order to revolutionise their entire modus operandi. Mindhunter is now screening on Netflix. Season 4 of Madam Secretary begins on TEN in 2 weeks. It will be fascinating to see how the series travels with Trump in the White House. The first episode already includes fake news. This debuted in the US last week. Elizabeth McCord is accused of being responsible for the death of the TimorLeste assistant vice minister when a fake new report surfaces. During a private meeting with Elizabeth on the first day of the United Nations General Assembly, the assistant vice minister suddenly collapses and dies in front of a helpless Elizabeth. The United States Secretary of State becomes suspicious about the death after the president of Timor-Leste ships the body back to their home country without a proper investigation or autopsy. 9:30pm Wednesday November 1 on TEN. Help India! By Amir Hussain for TwoCircles.net When the British took over from Mughals in India, one of their most important moves was to slowly replace Persian court language by strategically promoting English. For this, they promoted a chain of convent schools, in which along with local language English was also introduced. Coincidentally, that phase was of physical science and it was prevalent in Europe and in the English language which created eagerness among Indians and in other colonies of British to learn English. For the same reason, champions of the freedom movement in India visited Britain and received mastery in English and wrote extensively in English to converse with a world audience. From Gandhi to Nehru, Jinnah and Ambedkar, all eminent leaders of India wrote, conversed and expressed using English. Support TwoCircles Contrary to this, most Muslim personalities of this age stood firmly for preserving Urdu, and the general feeling was that if Urdu is lost or subjugated, it will be the loss of Deen (Islam). This sentiment was backed by religious scholars and chain of small and big Madaris were ensured for protection of Deen, but it seems it was more concerned with Urdu. And this is also the one dominant reason for the creation of Pakistan. This cultural nationalism of language was also promoted by Allama Iqbal and by satirist poet Nazeer Allahabadi. There is nothing wrong in protecting ones language, and foreign imposition is seen with suspicion which is quite natural. But the matter of the fact is for last two and a half centuries, the West pursued democracy for the political system and industrial development for promoting economic interest and succeeded dramatically. This played important role in promoting English as a scientific language and world were left with no option but to accept it. Russia, China, Germany and many tried to protect their language and failed partially to do so. We have also learnt that if one dominates in science, technology, economics and other fields, their culture too is promoted. A good example of this is how Western attire and living style is accepted in oriental societies. Right-wing organisations like the RSS and various Ulema organisations try to keep them at bay, and this creates friction between modern and traditional (sanskar) as we recently witnessed in BHU, JNU row and in Muslims countries. Here Im concerned about the Muslims who opted to stay in India instead of Pakistan. As against popular view that Islam prohibits discriminatory social structure, Muslims of India is extremely divided on caste line same as fellow Hindus. This was ensured by Mughals by assigning a particular name to those who performed special social service, for instance, those who painted curtains and other royal belongings were referred as rangrez, which still exist. And same as Hindus, every section in Muslims were not provided with education, specific ritual words were made to learn by heart without knowing the meaning, which still continues. After catastrophic vivisection of India, Muslims in India were left stray and the only source of education was Madaris barring few modern institutions. Due to gradual globalisation, traditional crafts in which Muslims engaged were rendered useless and owing to Information Technology, expansion of Urdu became almost useless for economic life. Madaris in India are still reluctant to teach in English language, now they teach very simple English, by which Students fails to comprehend the current affair and social issues magazines, and hence ill-informed regarding the world. And in Urdu only standard source is BBC Urdu to which Madaris are unease to trust. In the recent past, political Islam has been dominated by Jihad and with relation to archaic laws, and the Ulemas of Indian sub-continent have failed in countering this narrative The lack of English language and media access can be seen as one of the reasons. Particularly in Indian Muslim, public intellectual are very limited, Imtiyaz Ahmad, Asgar Ali engineer are prominent but they are no more in mainstream media. In this situation, it is time for Madaris to come forward and to interact with fellow brethren in Hindi, English and in other regional languages other than Urdu. Islam is not just for Muslims and it doesnt limit to rituals for life hereafter. It talks of justice extensively but doesnt convey to masses. Recent triple talaq case was poorly handled by Ulema, and through T. V debates message conveyed to brethren is that Islam is anti-women. One could hardly find any writings from Madaris in English and Hindi newspapers. A present political dispensation is committed to dividing the society on religious line and if Madaris still remains in their shell and limits them to Urdu this will be the greatest disservice to the Muslims of India and to secular fabric of Indian society. Islam has nothing to do with particular language. Yes, the original text is in Arabic but Arabic is not mandatory and can be translated to any language. The case of Pakistani Muslims is altogether different with us, in India we must preserve Urdu as our culture but to interact with fellow brethren we must open to Hindi and English. Ulema has the ability to write voluminous books in Urdu now they need to turn to English, Hindi and other regional languages. The author is Research Scholar, Department of Social work, AMU, Aligarh. Help India! By TwoCircles.net Staff Reporter Bengaluru-based Islamic preacher, Maulana Anzar Shah Qasmi, arrested in January 2016 over alleged links to Al Qaeda, saw all cases against him discharged by the Patiala House Court in Delhi. Support TwoCircles Discharged means that the court, based on the evidence presented by the Special Cell of Delhi Police, saw it unfit to even take the case to trial. Qasmis arrests had made national headlines, with a number of mainstream media quoting police sources to point out that he was working with the Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and had helped the terrorist organisation in recruiting members along with helping top leaders of AQIS meet in Bengaluru. His arrests resulted in massive protests across Bengaluru and Karnataka, with representatives from Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Tableeghi Jamaat, Jamiat-e-Ulema Hind, Sunni Jamaat, Huda Muslim, Ahle Hadees and Shia Jamaat rejecting the allegations of police regarding the involvement of Qasmi in any terror activity. MS Khan, the advocate of Qasmi, spoke to TwoCircles.net and said that the fact that the case was discharged showed how fabricated the charges were. The Polices case was built on two major points: one, that Qasmi helped a member of AQIS meet another operative in Bangalore. One of these operatives was arrested from Sambhal in December 2015 and is still in jail. The police said they exchanged letters but was unable to produce them. Secondly, the Police said Qasmi had been giving a number of violent sermons that egged people to join the AQIS. Again, they could not produce a single evidence to substantiate his claim, Khan said. He added that Qasmi would be released at the earliest. This is not the first time that Delhi Police has seen their investigation fail to even reach trial stage against what they claim to be a top operative of the terror module in India. Last year, they had similarly seen four cases against Abdul Karim Tunda discharged. Help India! TCN News Support TwoCircles Aligarh: Hundreds of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) alumni from across the world who attended the Sir Syed Bicentenary AMU Alumni Meet 2017 at the universitys Kennedy Hall Auditorium were caught up in nostalgia as the meet concluded with a valedictory function. AMU Vice Chancellor, Professor Tariq Mansoor after thanking the alumni for their visit said that the university will soon have Distinguished Alumni Awards in national and international categories. He pointed out that there is a plan to introduce alumni meets for all the faculties separately, which will be organised under the aegis of a central body of universitys Alumni Affairs Committee. However, the idea is subject to change and discussions and has yet to be finalised, said Prof Mansoor. The Vice Chancellor further said that AMU is also planning to connect children of Alumni with the university through internships and other programmes. Children of many alumni living in different parts of India and abroad are attending universities in various parts of world, we would like them to connect with the alma mater of their parents through special programmes, said Prof Mansoor adding that many universities have been doing this and it can be done in AMU too. Prof O P Kalra (Vice Chancellor, Pt H L Sharma University of Health Sciences), who attended the function as the chief guest said that he came to Aligarh to appear in the MBBS entrance exam with hardly any money and a place to stay. I stayed in a Gurudwara and was selected in the waiting list for admission in MBBS, said Prof Kalra adding that my candidature for admission was selected in AMUs Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Banaras Hindu Universitys Medical College at the same time. My father advised me to attend AMU and taught me Urdu, recalled Mr Kalra pointing out that a few years ago he visited his hostel room and found a research scholar of Sanskrit from a Muslim background residing in his room. This is exactly what Sir Syeds vision was, he said adding that a student from a Hindu background like him learnt Urdu in AMU, while a Muslim boy becomes a researcher scholar of Sanskrit in the same University. USA based Dr Abdul Wasey (senior cardiologist) pointed out that the revelation of the Holy Quran began with the word Iqra, urging humanity to read in the name of Lord who has created them. He added that the religious scriptures invite people towards knowledge and wisdom and Sir Syed with his efforts led people to the light of knowledge from the darkness of ignorance. He urged students to not get distracted and to keep focussing on their goals. If you keep your focus and work hard with determination, success will sure come, said Dr Wasey. USA based entrepreneur, Taher Madraswala said that he reached New York with just $90 in his pocket and worked hard to put a 100 million dollars company. My success has been because I was groomed by my teachers in the Zakir Hussain College of Engineering and Technology and I was loved by my seniors and juniors, he said. Madraswala urged students to gain knowledge in the 20s, apply that knowledge in the 30s, chase money in their 40s, enjoy the hard earned money in their 50s and do charity when they retire. Ali Harris Shere (Vice President, Britannia) said that his education in AMU shaped his value system and taught him to respect people. Recollecting a meeting with Bollywood superstar, Salman Khan; he said that the actor soon recognised his AMU background after meeting him. Salman Khan told me that the ethos of AMU were reflecting in my conversations, said Shere. He urged students to keep their hunger for knowledge, have proper mentorship, be visible with their achievements, understand the importance of networking and to have fresh perspectives to succeed in life. On the occasion, a newsletter and a book, Sir Syed Bharat ke Anmol Ratan authored by Ikhlas Ahmad Sherwani was released by the Vice Chancellor. A special attraction of the meet was a session of AMUs women achievers in which Prof Yasmin Saikia (Arizona State University), Arifa Khanam (Senior journalist), Sabiha Said (Vice President, KPMG), Tasneem Rasol Boaz (Indian Railway Traffic Services), Nuzhat Parveen Khan (Dean, Faculty of Law, Jamia Milia Islamia), Ghazala Kohkan Shamsi (New York, USA) and Taab Siddiqui (Owner, Harvest Gold Food India) were the panellists. Meanwhile a session on Aligarh Open University, a platform through which AMU alumni spread all over the world share knowledge and experiences with current university students was also organised. Earlier, in the day students associated with the University Drama Club performed a play on Sir Syed. A troupe of Ahmadi School for Visually Challenged sang the Tarana and the National Anthem. Dr Shariq Aqeel conducted the programme, while Prof Suhail Sabir proposed the vote of thanks. Bombardier Aerospace has been known for its innovation and entrepreneurial spirit since the beginning of its existence. They, along with Airbus and Boeing, have set the standards for aircraft but Bombardier has hit a few obstacles on the way to greatness. Airbus could save the Bombardier C-Series jet The Bombardier C-Series jet recently hit a snub with a trade dispute in the US that imposed a 300 percent import tariff on the plane. In a bid to save the Bombardier C-Series jet, Airbus will take a majority stake at 50 percent in the Bombardier C-Series jet programme. The deal could allow the aircraft maker, Bombardier, to circumvent US trade penalties meaning that the company could change the origin of its product - a somewhat peripheral loophole - so that it could create the aircrafts in the US for US customers. Financially, Airbus could save the C-Series jet from further difficulties. Bombardier will own 31 percent and Investment Quebec will own 19 percent in the C-Series Aircraft partnership. The deal would also save people's jobs, secure the industrial operations in Canada, the UK and in China and also create new jobs in the US. A step in the right direction With Airbus' muscle in sales and marketing plus customer support, this partnership could reinforce demand for Bombardier's aircraft which is the latest in the industry and is highly rated for its fuel efficiency - helping the company overcome the struggles it has faced to secure orders in recent months. To prevent the imposition of tariffs on planes sold to US buyers, Airbus will also, in addition, produce the jets at its factory in Alabama. "This partnership should more than double the value of the C-Series programme" the Chief Executive of Bombardier, Alain Bellemare said as reported by Airbus on Twitter. "This partnership should more than double the value of the #CSeries programme" Alain Bellemare Airbus (@Airbus) 16 October 2017 Northern Ireland and Airbus Bombardier deal Northern Ireland plays a big part in the wings production of the C-Series jet in Belfast at Queen's Island. About a quarter of the workforce is involved in the project. So the fact that this deal was successful, is significant news for Northern Ireland and the company's employees.. Arlene Foster, DUP leader has said in a statement that "there is a bright future ahead following what has been a dark time for staff and management. Airbus is a fitting partner," referring to the many jobs in Belfast that were under threat due to Boeing's rival dispute over the C-Series. Airbus shares are already up by 3.04 percent at 79.41 euros in reaction to the news. The stage is set for a showdown with Iran. The latest news is that president trump has not acknowledged that Iran is keeping its end of the bargain as far as the nuclear agreement is concerned. Earlier the CIA director Michael Pompeo in an address to the University of Texas at Austin accused the Iran government of being a terrorist and totalitarian state that was fomenting terror in the Middle East. He also referred to the Iranian Republican Guard as a terrorist organisation. After this speech and a study of Trump's views on the Iran Nuclear deal, it was always on the cards that at some stage, he would decertify that Iran was complying with the nuclear deal. He had all along called the nuclear deal flawed and had said that he would scrap it. The president has not scrapped the deal but has refused to certify that Iran is keeping its part of the nuclear agreement. He has now passed the buck to Congress which will have 60 days to decide further course of action. The Republican Guard is not declared a terror group. This shows that Trump is ready to strike but not wound Iran - as reported by Fox News. Hostage crisis Iran for decades since the revolution of 1979 has been in the crosshairs of the US administrations right from the time of Jimmy Carter. During his tenure, the Iranian revolutionary guards took hundreds of US diplomatic personnel as hostages. An attempt to rescue the hostages failed and made the USA a laughing stock around the world. Ultimately millions had to be paid in ransom to get the hostages back. Iran nuclear program Iran started a nuclear program which the US and its allies wanted to stop and this was the genesis of the nuclear agreement. The deal was crafted by Obama but Trump was always against it. He wanted to scrap the deal but the almost universal opposition of the allies to scrapping the nuclear deal with Iran deterred him. This is the reason the president has chosen a middle path, as he has not scrapped the deal with Iran but has asked Congress to examine the issue. This is a bit of a surprise as the president could have by an executive action reimposed the sanctions. Why did he pass the buck to Congress? The situation in the Middle East is hotting up but Iran has the backing of Russia and China. It will be interesting to watch what Trump will do in case Iran again starts developing nuclear weapons - as it has threatened to do in case the deal is scrapped. The nuclear agreement Most likely at some stage, the deal with Iran will collapse as Trump continues his role as president. It will be interesting to watch how things pan out in the days to come. One hopes Trump has done his homework as the Iranians are shrewd and have the backing of almost all the signatories of the Iran nuclear accord. Is there any woman left in the glittering but sordid world of films and politics in America or the UK who has not had some hateful encounter with Harvey Weinstein? Late last week a fourth claim of rape this time from Rose McGowan has been added to the list. The Charmed actress also states that the boss of Amazon's studio section Roy Price was repeatedly told about the abuse and ignored her complaints. This week it's British women coming out with tales of horror encounters. Actress Lysette Anthony claims she was raped in her own home when she was only nineteen. Presently UK police are investigating five cases of different women but the number seems to be increasing daily. The total number of women claiming they were sexually harassed or assaulted now easily tops thirty and includes huge names like Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Beckinsale. It is important to state that Weinstein refutes any claims to non-consensual sex with anyone. A sordid and ghastly tale The whole tale is sordid and ghastly and although if true Weinstein emerges as a hateful sexual predator, it is hard to identify anyone who comes away from it with any credibility. It is claimed that the man's employment contract with his own production company allowed him to treat someone improperly as long as he paid for the damages; paying 188,000 in the first instance with the money increasing on a sliding scale! More than one board member and lawyer knew of settlements Weinstein had made to women previously. What kind of people, what kind of companies agree to deals like that? The usual suspects Two of the usual suspects get in on the act. Hillary Clinton, of course, has to be included in this vile story. She was a big friend of Harvey a man who contributed to the Democrat cause. How long before she makes hay by shifting the story to her own most loathed nemesis Donald Trump? Not long at all. In an interview with the BBC, she implies the behaviour of the two men as sexual assaulters are similar, even though Trump has never been accused of rape and passing over the fact that her own husband was accused of sex offences. What about the large sums of cash donated by Weinstein and blown by Clinton in her efforts to beat Trump? Will she return them? No, I don't think so either. Tawdry? Not to be outdone in raising his profile at the expense of others is James Corden. He was speaking at an Aids gala in Los Angeles and made several jokes that trivialised the issue, drawing groans from the crowd astounded at his lack of taste. They should not be, he has form. Other people who could have done more to protect the vulnerable Colin Firth has admitted a co-star of his Sophie Dix told him of Weinstein pinning her down and performing a sex act against her will in 1990. He says he was ashamed that although she appeared profoundly upset he did nothing but express sympathy. How many other important influential men were told and did nothing and have still not had the moral courage Firth has shown in owning up? Some of the actresses involved need to answer questions as well. Kate Beckinsale says she had a horrible encounter with him at just seventeen, around 1990. Yet Kate went on to make major films with him past that date including The Aviator in 2005. Gwyneth Paltrow accused him of trying to bed her in 1996 yet made more than half a dozen future films involving Weinstein, including Sliding Doors in 1998. There are many other examples. Myleene Klass claims she was offered a sex contract in 2010! 2010 was seven years ago and her silence to this point has been deafening! It's brave if you tell the truth at the right time whatever others are saying Hollywood plus the UK version and the political satellites that orbit around the glitz, seem to have to speak the same thing at the same time. If you don't join in you're out. Since Trump was elected everyone bravely has been saying they detest him and they use every stage (even though we pay to go just to see them act) to show how brave they are in following the crowd. Now it's Weinstein's turn. Everyone is appalled, the stars speaking out are as brave as lions, yet only a few months ago he was revered as a God. Judi Dench apparently had a fake tattoo of him on her nether regions, everyone loved him. Yes, it is difficult to speak out against an important figure. Yes, it may damage your career and cost you money. It is the same in many situations, taking a stand is difficult. It was the same with Jimmy Saville, many knew, very few had the courage to speak at the time. With regard to Weinstein, the male actors who were told and chose to say nothing, politicians and comedians who are using this scandal for their own ends and female actresses who are now in strong wealthy situations but have allowed a predator to continue to prey on their young colleagues are not heroes. They all chose to protect their wealth and position at the expense of others more vulnerable than themselves and waited until they knew everyone else was now shouting the man down before putting the boot in. Understandable but not shining behaviour. As I said earlier, it is difficult to identify anyone who appears with much credit from this tawdry, foul mess. Anthony Scaramucci, the white house Communications Director that US President Donald Trump fired, has no hard feelings about his old boss. In fact, he went in front of the Oxford Union on Monday night to call him a political genius, simply because he (or Roger Stone) had the idea to use Twitter as a Presidential election campaign tool. Yeah, hes a genius. The other day, Trump said he met with the President of the Virgin Islands. As President of the United States, though, he IS the President of the Virgin Islands. Hillary Clinton had more money to fund her campaign (which is stupid, because Trump is a billionaire, so how stingy do you have to be to not chip in to your own Presidential campaign?), and the former Communications Director believes that she wouldve won had it not been for Trumps Twitter account. He noted that Clintons campaign had 1.7 times the amount of money behind it and 2.4 times the personnel, but Scaramucci did say that he was unsure whether the money is as important as the ideas. Scaramucci told the Union that he does not believe that Trump would have won the election and defeated Hillary Clinton last November if he wasnt constantly on Twitter, sending out all-caps tweets in long rants. This is all moot, because Clinton actually did get more votes, by and large, its just that the Electoral College and the vote-counting system meant that, technically, Trump won. But America didnt vote him in. Technically. So, this is all a moot point. But still, Scaramucci says that without the tool of Twitter, it is his firm belief that Trump likely would have not won. You have to accept hes a political genius Apparently we just have to give in and accept the fact that Donald Trump is a political genius. Those were his words. Someone called Donald Trump a genius, now this is news. Scaramucci said that there was definitely some level of genius in terms of his judgement. Is it genius on Trumps part or is it stupidity and ignorance on his voters part? If they only have the attention span for a 140-character tweet, is that him being a genius or is that them being not quite geniuses? Scaramucci said that over the course of just nineteen months, Trump went from zero to POTUS [President of the United States], but thats not quite true. He might go on about how hes just a normal guy and hes just like you, but it couldnt be further from the truth. He wasnt a zero nineteen months ago. He was the star of NBCs The Apprentice. His name was on just about every hotel and resort in the United States. He was famous and he monopolised on that fame. Trumps not a genius, not by a long shot. Hes just a celebrity (somehow) and he just did what celebrities do they use their status as a celebrity to get stuff that they want. Except this wasnt a pair of Yeezys or tickets to see Wicked, this was the US Presidency. And in Trumps case, it was also to grab women by the p*ssy. Hey, when youre a star, they let you do whatever you want even be President. Scaramucci points out flaws in Clintons campaign strategy According to Scaramucci, Trump also beat Clinton thanks to a better campaign strategy. He noted the state of Wisconsin, which usually votes Democrat. He mentioned that Hillary Clinton went to visit the voters in Wisconsin a grand total of drumroll, please zero times, whereas Trump went sixteen times. Its fair to say that Hillary wasnt quite pulling her weight considering she was the last hope to save America from the wrath of Donald Trump. As a beacon of light in an otherwise bleak world, Hillary didnt really shine as brightly as she could have. In the last few months since his inauguration, US President Donald Trump has committed many impeachable crimes and no ones done anything about it, so porn publisher Larry Flynt wants to hurry that along and get him out of the white house, offering $10 million to whoever can get him removed from office. Flynt and his magazine Hustler bought out a full-page ad in the Washington Post that said, $10 MILLION FOR INFORMATION LEADING TO THE IMPEACHMENT AND REMOVAL FROM OFFICE OF DONALD J. TRUMP. The ad makes it clear that this is a cash offer to anyone with dirt on Trump that could get him booted out of the White House. Ad claims Presidency is illegitimate in many ways According to Flynts ad, Trumps Presidency is illegitimate in many ways and he is dangerously unfit to be running the United States and be in charge of the defence and the missiles and all that malarkey. And to be fair, Flynt is just saying what everybodys thinking with this ad. We need to get him out of the Oval Office. Luckily Flynt is here to speak up for us and has the money to back it up. If you do have the information that Flynt is looking for and youre willing to sell it to him for $10 million, call the hotline at (1-800-251-2714) or send an email to hustlertipline@lfp.com. #Athens is the capital of Greece and the second largest port in the world. With the population of more than four million people, it is Greece's largest city. Its temperature is extremely high during the summer, it holds the World Meteorological Organisation record for the highest temperature ever recorded in Europe (48 degrees) in 1977. Even now, in mid-October, the temperatures are high, around 23 degrees, which make Athens a very desirable city to visit. If you ask its residents about the quality of life, you will hear a lot of disgruntled comments, but for all of us who are visiting, Athens is a beautiful destination. You can find accommodation which is not expensive and the food is more than good quality. Where else can you sit in the sun, enjoying tasteful food while enjoying the beautiful Acropolis? You can smell the history almost every step of the way. Not so far from Athens, only 68 kilometres is the Sounion - the site of the ruins of an ancient Greek temple of Poseidon. Once you go there and check that amazing view you will never be able to forget it. Even on the way to Sounion, you will spot some of the most beautiful houses, churches, breathtaking views and great restaurants. The beautiful Mediterranean food There is so much to say about Greek food, first of all, it is of high quality and will melt in your mouth. I'm not talking just about the famous Greek salad, or souvlaki, gyros, but as well of zucchini and aubergines. Secondly, it is extremely cheap when you compare it to any other country in Southern Europe. Of course, there are places where you will pay far too much, but such places are rare. One thing that I did find unusual, is that there are not many ethnic restaurants. Mostly, there are Greek food and Greek restaurants, but not so much Indian, Japanese, or similar cuisine. Vegetarianism doesn't seem to be the familiar term either. However, there is one more thing that makes this place unique, dining in the Athens neighbourhood of Plaka, regardless the time of year you arrive, it will always be crowded and very lively. The thing I love the most is their music, with its melancholy touch. You will be able to hear it in almost every restaurant - somewhat romantic and sad at the same time. Places to visit in Athens One of the first places a visitor should start their Greek adventure is definitely Acropolis. It is huge and it is going to take you some time to go around and see everything. The price to tour is 30 euros, but note that every last Saturday of the month is free of charge. There, among other things are Parthenon, Temple of Hephaestus and Erechtheion. The next one on the list should be Ancient Agora of Athens- the ruins which are located in the heart of the city, long time ago it was the site of a marketplace, a political, cultural and economic centre of the ancient world. Moving onto the Herod Atticus Odeon, an impressive second-century theatre, built into the hillside. Philopappos Hill where you can have a picnic and enjoy a breathtaking view. Most Athenians come there on weekends. While in Athens, if you are interested in their islands, but don't want to go too far, you can take a boat to Aegina island, around 27 kilometres away. It is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece and it will be enough to feed your curiosity. It's no secret that the Donald Trump administration hasn't been too friendly to the LGBT community. While Trump has received his fair share of criticism, it's been Vice President Mike Pence who has an even worse reputation on the issue. Trump on Pence When Donald Trump first announced his campaign for president, he did so while vowing to be the best choice for all Americans. Despite his pledge, Trump's controversial rhetoric didn't go over with many that weren't already on the far right of the political spectrum. Despite his tone and style, Trump was able to weather the storm of controversy during the GOP primary and general election to become the 45th President of the United States. During that time, Trump selected former Indiana Gov. Mike Pence to be his running mate, which appealed to the religious right, but alienated many others. One of the biggest knocks on Pence was his views rooted in conservative Christianity, especially when it came to dealing with issues pertaining to the LGBT community and women's rights. As first reported by The New Yorker on October 16, Trump reportedly poked fun at his vice president for allegedly wanting to "hang" gay Americans. When the conversation in a meeting turned to gay rights, Donald Trump motioned toward Mike Pence and joked: https://t.co/jnE1TdT8CF pic.twitter.com/SMW3E0PczI The New Yorker (@NewYorker) October 16, 2017 In an article published by the New Yorker on Monday, Donald Trump and Mike Pence recently took part in a private meeting with a legal scholar when the issue of gay rights was brought up. "Don't ask that guy," Trump said in reference to Pence. "He (Pence) wants to hang them all!" Trump continued. Donald Trump mocks Mike Pence for wanting to "hang" all gay people https://t.co/F7IbqGvPkj pic.twitter.com/ErqgrkXFSK Newsweek (@Newsweek) October 16, 2017 When the issue of abortion was highlighted, Donald Trump didn't think going after Roe v. Wade was the best move, and criticized Mike Pence for his views on the subject after the legal scholar informed the president that states would simply vote to overturn the ruling. "Youve wasted all this time and energy on it," Trump reportedly said to Pence, while adding, "it's not going to end abortion anyway." Twitter reacts As expected, many social media users weren't happy with the report in question. "How can anyone support a man who holds these beliefs? Even if you are a devout Christian, this is just wrong!" one tweet read. We have an alleged rapist president who jokes about his VP wanting to lynch gay people. I don't recognize my country #MikePence #Trump Ben USA (@fuzzbert) October 16, 2017 Republicans and conservatives think that hanging gay people is "funny" Let that sink in. Let that fucking sink in.#MikePence #VP #LGBT Laurent (@FreiLaurent) October 16, 2017 "We have an alleged rapist president who jokes about his VP wanting to lynch gay people. I don't recognize my country," another tweet added. "Republicans and conservatives think that hanging gay people is 'funny' Let that sink in. Let that fucking sink in," one Twitter user noted. Aren't we lucky that you were elected to represent all Americans? "When the conversation turned to gay rights ... katherine Rollins (@Kathrn) October 16, 2017 I would love to actually be able to meet mike pence and see if he can look me in the eyes and tell me I should be hung for being gay Aidan (@aidanbsumner) October 16, 2017 How can anyone support a man who holds these beliefs? Even if you are a devout Christian, this is just wrong! https://t.co/Rpt7S7J6Cj Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) October 16, 2017 "I would love to actually be able to meet mike pence and see if he can look me in the eyes and tell me I should be hung for being gay," another post noted. As the backlash continued, the bad blood between the Donald Trump administration and the majority of the country moved forward. It's no secret that Donald Trump hasn't always gotten along with members of his own Repubican Party. For Sen. John McCain, he doesn't look to be holding back anytime soon with his thoughts about the president. McCain on Trump When Donald Trump announced that he would be running in the Republican primary election in June 2015, many high-ranking officials in the party were not pleased. Trump's controversial style and rhetoric caused red flags to be raised, with the GOP reputation on the line. During the early stages of the 2016 presidential election, the former host of "The Apprentice" came under fire for his remarks about John McCain. "He's not a war hero," Trump said of McCain, who served in the United States Military during the Vietnam War. Trump then appeared to mock McCain for being captured as a POW, stating, "I like people who weren't captured." Since then, the bad blood between the Arizona senator and the president has only continued, which was evident during a recent speech given by McCain who spoke out against "half-baked, spurious nationalism." On Tuesday morning, Trump took part in a radio interviewed and sent a warning to the senator, which was detailed in The Hill on October 17. Trump warns McCain: I'll fight back and "it won't be pretty" https://t.co/6AUSU3zIyA pic.twitter.com/5wEaafKZR5 The Hill (@thehill) October 17, 2017 While being interviewed on The Chris Plante Show on Tuesday morning, Donald Trump was asked about the latest criticism from Sen. John McCain, as the president sent back a warning and threat of his own. "I'm being very, very nice," Trump said, before adding, "But at some point I fight back, and it won't be pretty." Not long after Donald Trump gave his remarks, John McCain wasted no time with a short, but sweet, response. "I've faced far greater challenges than this," he said. McCain was recently diagnosed with brain cancer, and it appears that the commander in chief is holding back his remarks due to potential backlash. Just last month, McCain came out against Trump's bill to repeal and replace Obamacare, which proved to be the final nail in the president's latest attempt to kill the Affordable Care Act. As expected, McCain's decision didn't go over well with the president. Moving forward While Donald Trump continues to fight with members of his own party, questions remain unanswered in regards to various issues. Health care and tax reform face an uncertain future, with instability growing between the United States and North Korea. As the pressure mounts on the White House, Trump has been unable to increase his approval rating from where it stands at below 40 percent. On Sunday, October 15, night an explosion took place on an oil rig platform in Lake Pontchartrain, located north-west of New Orleans. According to The New York Times, the explosion occurred near Kenner and St. Charles Parish after 7 p.m. In a press conference, Sheriff Joe Lopinto from the Jefferson Parish stated that at least 7 people were injured in the explosion and were subsequently admitted to a hospital. Lopinto added that the police is working in tandem with the subcontractors of the oil rig to get the names of all those who were present at the time of the explosion. The Sheriff also revealed that one person was believed to be missing from the explosion site and a search was ongoing. However, on a positive note, no deaths were reported since the explosion took place. The rescue operations Sgt. Brian McGregor, the spokesman for Kenner Police Department, shared that rescue boats were deployed on Sunday evening itself. The rescue boats are working in tandem with Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office to expedite the rescue operations. Mike Guillot from the East Jefferson Emergency Medical Services stated that the injuries sustained by those rescued were serious. Five of the seven people rescued were taken to the University Medical Center for treatment of burns and injuries generally sustained from a blast site. Three of the blast victims are in critical condition. The other two blast victims were admitted to the burn unit at East Jefferson General Hospital and are currently stable. While the situation is under control, the authorities revealed that one person was missing. According to a press release, Antwan Harris, the Jefferson Parish spokesman, the Emergency Operations center received reports of smoke and fire being detected from the lake at around 7:15 p.m. on October 15. He further added that after the reports came in, a number of people were rescued from the blast site while the fire was raging. Explosion heard miles from miles away The authorities are yet to declare the cause of the explosion, which is still being investigated. However, the City of Kenners Facebook page noted that authorities present on the blast site apparently reported that ignition of cleaning chemicals could have caused the oil rig explosion. The people living in the nearby areas took to Twitter to share that the intensity of the blast shook their houses. Although the intensity of the explosion may have been massive, the mayor of Kenner, Ben Zahn reported that none of the homes on the land were damaged. Donald Trump appears to be getting frustrated with the opposition thrown his way by the Democratic Party. In a series of tweets to start his morning, the president called out past and previous Democratic leadership, including his 2016 election opponent Hillary Clinton. Trump on Democrats When Donald Trump made it offical and announced his plan to run for president back in June 2015, not many gave him a realistic chance at success. As the months rolled on, the former host of "The Apprentice" picked up steam and was able to move ahead of his opponents in the Republican primary and ended up being nominated at the party's convention last summer. Going through the general election it seemed as if Trump had no chance in beating Hillary Clinton, but he was able to do so in one of the most shocking election wins in recent history. Despite this, Trump's victory has been marred by controversy, most notably the allegations claiming Russia hacked the election in his favor. Since then, Trump has faced a bumpy road during his nine months in office, which has included in-fighting with fellow Republicans and criticism from Democrats. As seen on his Twitter account on October 16, the president is back on the attack against the Democratic Party. I was recently asked if Crooked Hillary Clinton is going to run in 2020? My answer was, "I hope so!" Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 16, 2017 Taking to his Twitter account on Monday morning, Donald Trump sent out several tweets targeting the Democratic Party. "Art Laffer just said that he doesn't know how a Democrat could vote against the big tax cut/reform bill and live with themselves!" Trump tweeted, while tagging Fox News in his post. "The Democrats only want to increase taxes and obstruct. That's all they are good at!" he continued. The Democrats only want to increase taxes and obstruct. That's all they are good at! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 16, 2017 "Dem Senator Schumer hated the Iran deal made by President Obama, but now that I am involved, he is OK with it," Donald Trump tweeted again, before adding, "Tell that to Israel, Chuck!" Not stopping there, Trump then went on to call on Hillary Clinton to run against him in 2020. "I was recently asked if Crooked Hillary Clinton is going to run in 2020? My answer was, 'I hope so!'" Dem Senator Schumer hated the Iran deal made by President Obama, but now that I am involved, he is OK with it. Tell that to Israel, Chuck! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 16, 2017 Next up While Donald Trump takes time to attack members of the Democratic Party, the pressure has only been mounting on his administration. Questions continue to be raised around issues like health care and tax reform, though the commander in chief has been unable to convince the majority of the American people that he's done a good job in office as his approval rating has dropped to just 35 percent. On Friday night, James Corden hosted the amfAR gala in Los Angeles. While most of Hollywood has taken the Harvey Weinstein scandal seriously, the comedian tried to lighten up the mood with some jokes. Corden joked about the producer's alleged behavior as well as some things that specific victims went through, like seeing Weinstein bathe. Not the right timing Corden's jokes weren't well received by the crowd at the gala or by the victims of Weinstein's abuse. In the video showing his speech, most of the crowd groans while few people laugh. Though after the first joke he received negative feedback, he continued to go off about Weinstein. For his last joke, Corden talked about the producer masturbating into a plant which is a situation that happened to news anchor Lauren Sivan. When he moved onto joking about a different subject, the crowd responded better. He was not off the hook, though. Once the video surfaced on Twitter, the late-night talk show host received a massive amount of hate for being insensitive. Rose McGowan, an alleged rape victim of Weinstein, has been one of the biggest voices in the scandal. She took to Twitter after seeing the video to trash Corden as well as those who laughed at his jokes. "Hearing the audiences vile roars & laughs show EXACTLY what kind of HOLLYWOOD you really are," the actress said after insulting Corden. YOU MOTHERFUCKING PIGLET https://t.co/UU9LitO9zJ rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) October 15, 2017 McGowan even called out CBS, the network that airs Corden's show, urging them to take action against Rape Culture. "@CBS DONATE TO @ELAWC OR YOU TOO SUPPORT RAPE CULTURE," she tweeted. The actress wasn't the only alleged victim of Weinstein's to respond to Corden's jokes. "Shame on this pig and everyone who grunted with him," tweeted Asia Argento. Apologizing Following the controversial headlines he caused, James Corden took to Twitter to issue a public apology. To clear things up, he said that he did not intend to try to "make light of Harvey's inexcusable behavior." The comedian tweeted that he firmly believes sexual assault is not something to laugh about. but to shame him, the abuser, not his victims. I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention. (2/2) James Corden (@JKCorden) October 15, 2017 Corden says his goal was to use his platform in order to publicly shame Weinstein, not his victims. He then shared that he is "truly sorry for anyone offended," reassuring them that how it was perceived was not how he meant it. Amidst the Hollywood catastrophe caused by his actions, Harvey Weinstein has fled to Arizona for treatment. In his apology letter, he told the public that he only wants to get better. Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold have secured a slot for the next round of the dance competition on Monday. In fact, the pair earned a score of 30 out of 30 points for a foxtrot set to "You're Welcome" by Jordan Fisher feat. Lin-Manuel Miranda. The "Dancing with the Stars" stage completely transformed into a Polynesian-themed ballroom for the overall "Moana"-inspired performance. Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold stunned the judges and viewers when they incorporated a surprising twist to the traditional foxtrot routine. 'DWTS' celebrates 'Disney Night' in latest episode Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman, and Bruno Tonioli had nothing but praise for the duo after heating up the dance floor. Carrie Ann Inaba commended the actor and his counterpart for their perfect deliberation of the dance routine. "I can't take anything away from you for it, because you delivered it so perfectly," she told the pair. Although he opposed the addition of non-traditional dance steps to their performance, Len Goodman was still impressed of Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold's showcase for the "Disney Night" episode. Bruno Tonioli, on the other hand, dubbed the presentation as the modern way of performing a foxtrot. Meanwhile, Lindsay Arnold opened up about their preparation for the live performance with "Dancing with the Stars" host Erin Andrews. "Every single thing I ask him to do, it's hard, because he wants to be perfect," the pro explained. "And that is not an easy task, so it's definitely challenging." 'DWTS' eliminates another couple after magical night Jordan Fisher also admitted to this although he insisted that both of them had fun while rehearsing for the foxtrot showcase. He also commended his pro counterpart for helping him loosen up during the rehearsals. When asked about performing to his own Disney song, the actor frankly said he did not realize that he was dancing to his own music while onstage. Jordan Fisher and Lindsay Arnold are currently leading the competition with an average score of 25.7 points after six performances. The pair has secured a one-point lead against Lindsey Stirling and Mark Ballas with an average score of 24.7 points at second place. Meanwhile, Sasha Pieterse's journey with "Dancing With The Stars" has come to an end after the "Disney Night" episode. The "Pretty Little Liars" alum and her pro partner, Gleb Savchenko, fell short after performing a rumba set to "Kiss the Girl" by Samuel E. Wright from "The Little Mermaid" soundtrack. Muscatine, a small town along the Mississippi River in Iowa, made headlines in February 2012 when Xi Jinping, then China's vice-president, arrived to see "old friends" he had first met 27 years earlier. Xi joined dozens of local people for tea at the home of Sarah Lande and spoke of fond memories of his 1985 trip his first to the United States as head of an agricultural delegation from Zhengding county in Hebei province. "You were the first group of Americans I came into contact with," he told them. "To me, you are America." That 2012 visit, widely covered in the US media, was the first time many in the United States had heard of Xi. Later, he became general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president. "We're very honored and proud to have the president of China call us old friends," Terry Branstad, former Iowa governor and now US ambassador in Beijing, said in 2015. He met with Xi in 1985 and 2012. Building personal links As a member of a new generation of Chinese leaders, Xi has not only shown a firm belief in building people-to-people ties, but also in establishing personal relationships with US leaders. In June 2013, less than three months after taking office, Xi traveled to Rancho Mirage in California for a two-day "shirt sleeve summit" with Barack Obama, who had started his second term as US president that year. During their talks, they shared their respective visions and agreed that positive China-US relations are good not only for their countries, but also the world. Both described the bilateral relationship as the most consequential in the 21st century. Richard Bush, a senior fellow at the John L. Thornton China Center of the Brookings Institution, said after the summit that it "met its primary goal of deepening the personal relationship between the two, and in charting a way forward on the key issues of their bilateral relationship". At Rancho Mirage, Xi assured the US and the world of China's determination for peaceful development, and proposed a new type of major country relationship based on nonconfrontation, nonconflict, mutual respect, and win-win cooperation. The proposal was made at a time when the US, hit hard by the 2008 global financial crisis, was concerned about its decline compared with other nations, particularly China. Speculation was rife about a rivalry between the established power and a rising power, known as the Thucydides Trap, which refers to the war between ancient Athens and Sparta. China overtook Japan as the world's second-largest economy in 2010, and four years later, the International Monetary Fund reported that the country had surpassed the US as the world's largest economy in terms of purchasing power parity. "With China continuing to gain economic strength relative to the US, the incumbent superpower undoubtedly feels under pressure," Cheng Li, director of the John L. Thornton China Center, said last year in an examination of China-US relations during Obama's eight years in office. "The two countries must continue adjusting to this new reality and seek balance in their relationship." Many US experts applauded the new type of major country relationship as China's effort to avoid the Thucydides Trap. David Lampton, a professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, praised the concept, saying "Beijing and Washington must take steps in several domains to build a major-power relationship in the 21st century that is not premised on conflict". When US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson visited Beijing in March, he said bilateral relations were "very positive" and "built on no confrontation, no conflict, mutual respect, and always searching for win-win solutions", a reflection of the deep influence of Xi's proposal. Cui Tiankai, Chinese ambassador to the US, welcomes Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, at the Chinese embassy in Washington on Sept 27. Zhao Huanxin / China Daily Shen Dingli, associate dean of Fudan University's Institute of International Studies, praised Xi for the concept. "Xi has aspired to make a more equal bilateral partnership between China and the US. What he has termed as a new type of major country relationship intends to present a mutually respectful and beneficial relationship, which more or less has been on the track." Ties in the Trump era Like his informal summit with Obama in California, Xi has tried to build personal ties with US President Donald Trump. In their first face-to-face informal summit in April at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Xi told Trump that "there are 1,000 reasons to make the China-US relationship a success, and not a single reason to break it". Trump has praised the Chinese president on multiple occasions, and he said he will try to build a good working relationship with Xi. The mood looked cordial as Trump's 5-year-old granddaughter Arabella, the daughter of Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, sang in Mandarin and recited a Chinese poem for Xi and first lady Peng Liyuan. Li at the John L. Thornton China Center said Xi values personal ties with his US counterpart. While many analysts emphasize the differences between Xi and Trump due to the contrasting cultural and sociopolitical environments in which they grew up, Li said they have far more in common, citing Xi's desire to fulfill the Chinese Dream of a rejuvenated nation and Trump's aim to "make America great again". Trump has shown support for China's Belt and Road Initiative, sending a delegation to Beijing in May to attend the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. Meanwhile, the countries have concluded the inaugural four comprehensive dialogues announced by Xi and Trump at the Mar-a-Lago summit a diplomatic and security dialogue, economic dialogue, law enforcement and cybersecurity dialogue, and social and people-to-people dialogue. Cui Tiankai, Chinese ambassador to the US, said the two leaders have set a constructive tone and pointed the way forward for bilateral relations at their meetings at Mar-a-Lago and in Hamburg in July. Trump's planned state visit to China in November is expected to "take the China-US relationship to a new level", he said. Chinese believe travel and meeting with different people can expand one's vision and improve understanding and trust. That long-held belief is exemplified in the Chinese saying, "It's better to travel 10,000 miles than to read 1,000 books." Some of the travel stories, such as President Xi Jinping's first visit to Iowa in May 1985 as the party secretary in Zhengding county, Hebei province, have become deeds praised far and wide through word of mouth. Heading a five-member delegation to investigate corn processing in the American agriculture state, Xi lived in the bedroom of the son of a local family in Muscatine, Eleanor and Thomas Dvorchak, and joined them for "big breakfasts with coffee and tea every day during their stay," as recalled Eleanor. "They were lovely and high-spirited young people, and we are deeply impressed by Xi, with his modesty and friendliness." Xi returned to Iowa in February 2012 as the vice-president of China to continue the friendship. This time, he went to farms, joined a local resident's birthday party and picnicked on a boat. Xi told Americans, "I feel so great to see my old friends in Muscatine after 27 years. I remember the old days because you are my first American friends, and the short stay here helped me shape a general picture about the US." How sweet the experience was, so valuable as well! It brings people of different backgrounds closer and creates memories to be cherished for a lifetime regardless of ideological differences. In order to strengthen mutual understanding and people-to-people exchanges between the US and China, China's tourism industry watchdog and practitioners throughout the country vowed to initiate more fun-filled programs and provide tailored services for the American general public. Last week, the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) led a delegation of 80 from 18 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions in China to continue their "Beautiful China - World Heritage Tourism Promotion Event" in North America, and visited San Francisco on Saturday. At the Asian Art Museum in downtown San Francisco, big pictures capturing the allure of China's 52 UNESCO World Heritage sites hang along the aisle. Booths set up around the hallway and staff from the 18 areas introduced museum patrons to China's local attractions. "From the iconic Great Wall in Beijing to Fujian Province's Kulangsu Settlement, the newest 2017 addition to UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, China boasts a long list of must-see attractions," said Wang Xiaofeng, vice-chairman of the CNTA at his speech. Kulangsu, or better known as Gulangyu Island in China, is a pedestrian-only isle in Xiamen, Fujian province. It is renowned for its winding seashore, high density of forest and grassland and cluster of European-style mansions and villas. Luo Linquan, consul general of China's Consulate General in San Francisco, said tourism is an effective way to expand the friendship between China and the United States, adding that about 5.32 million people from both countries visited the other in 2016, up 12 percent over the previous year. "The US has now become China's third-largest source of tourists, with an average 2.1 million people visiting China annually," he said. More than 3 million Chinese tourists visited the United States in 2016, making it the fourth-largest destination market of China, Luo added. Bill Knickerbocker, president of Walnut Creek, California-based travel agency the Executive Ventures, said China might need to prepare more specialized programs for American tourists. "My clients complained that they don't want to see the big threes - Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou - any longer. Anything that is really exciting. For example, could the local cities provide a 'one day with the locals' trip?" He suggested agencies develop new travel itineraries for destinations and activities that speak directly to American interests, including thematic itineraries such as archeological expeditions and the great outdoors. Contact the writer at junechang@chinadailyusa.com NEW YORK The US attorney's office said the crimes of a New Jersey man convicted of planting two bombs on New York City streets have been met with "swift and resolute justice". Acting US Attorney Joon H. Kim issued a statement Monday shortly after a Manhattan jury found 29-year-old Ahmad Khan Rahimi guilty of all charges. Rahimi faces a maximum punishment of life in prison. Prosecutors said Rahimi considered himself "a soldier in a holy war against Americans" and was inspired by the Islamic State group and al-Qaida to carry out the Sept 17, 2016, attacks. The Afghanistan-born Rahimi is charged with setting off a bomb in the Chelsea neighborhood that injured 30 people. He's also accused of detonating a bomb along a charity race in Seaside Park, New Jersey. No one was injured in that case. Rahimi was captured in September 2016 after a shootout with police in New Jersey. Kim said, "Today's verdict is a victory for New York City, a victory for America in its fight against terror, and a victory for all who believe in the cause of justice." The defense said it will appeal. Sentencing is set for Jan 18. AP China's continued economic growth and efforts to ramp up its economic relations with the US will bring "even bigger benefit" to the US economy and its people, Beijing's top envoy to Washington Cui Tiankai said on Monday. Two days before Beijing convenes the National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, Cui said he believed this year's meeting promises to continue to bring about win-win scenarios for China and for its global partners, particularly the United States. Citing figures and sources from the US-China Business Council and JP Morgan Chase, Cui said in an article posted on cnn.com that China has made headway in its reform and a booming Chinese economy has proven a boon to the US. The 19th National Congress of the CPC, scheduled to open on Wednesday, is expected to unveil new leadership and set a blueprint for national development for the next five years and beyond. "We expect that the Party congress will illustrate that China's unrelenting effort in reform and opening up has added further momentum not only to its own development, but also to that of the world economy," Cui wrote. "By strongly emphasizing our outward-looking vision, this year's congress promises to continue to bring about win-win scenarios for China and for our partners across the world, particularly the United States," he said. Cui said that as previously shown, the twice-in-a-decade congress can be the beginning of tremendous determination and development. For example, he said, five years ago, when the 18th Party congress concluded, a plan was introduced by China's current leadership to build a new, open economic system. Over the past five years, the country has turned those ideas into structural reform, economic growth and tangible institutions. "China's supply-side reform is actually kicking in,"the ambassador wrote, citing Jing Ulrich, managing director and vice-chairman of Asia Pacific at JPMorgan Chase. According to a Sept 14 CNBC report, Ulrich said at the Milken Institute's Asia Summit in Singapore, "In the past several years, they have been containing capacity growth, they closed a lot of factories in the steel and aluminum sectors. So now, that reform actually has come to fruition." China has, especially since the last Party congress, increased contributions to international economic governance, both through strong endorsements of globalization and free trade in the international arena, and through groundbreaking endeavors like the Asian Infrastructure Development Bank to address Asia's infrastructure needs, and the Belt and Road Initiative to increase connectivity on the Eurasian continent, according to Cui. Citing figures from the US-China Business Council, a private, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization of roughly 200 American companies that do business with China, Cui said 2.6 million US jobs are supported by the China-US bilateral trade relationship. Cui also quoted a report prepared by Oxford Economics for the council in January, which said that by 2030, US exports to China are expected to increase to more than $520 billion, as China is expected to continue to be one of the world's fastest growing economies. Cui cautioned, however, the mutual opportunities afforded by a globally engaged China are not always on the mind of the US, citing the recent investigation initiated by the US to intellectual property. He said the probe"showed the overemphasized trade imbalance between the two countries, the misunderstandings about China's debt, and the treatment of foreign investment based on each other's appeals are all major concerns for the bilateral relationship". "However, through dialogue, our two countries can address these concerns, which in turn will benefit the global economy," he said. huanxinzhao@chinadailyusa.com Cui Tiankai, Chinese ambassador to the US, welcomes Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, at the Chinese embassy in Washington on Sept 27. Zhao Huanxin / China Daily Muscatine, a small town along the Mississippi River in Iowa, made headlines in February 2012 when Xi Jinping, then China's vice-president, arrived to see "old friends" he had first met 27 years earlier. Xi joined dozens of local people for tea at the home of Sarah Lande and spoke of fond memories of his 1985 trip - his first to the United States - as head of an agricultural delegation from Zhengding county in Hebei province. "You were the first group of Americans I came into contact with," he told them. "To me, you are America." That 2012 visit, widely covered in the US media, was the first time many in the United States had heard of Xi. Later, he became general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president. "We're very honored and proud to have the president of China call us old friends," Terry Branstad, former Iowa governor and now US ambassador in Beijing, said in 2015. He met with Xi in 1985 and 2012. Building personal links As a member of a new generation of Chinese leaders, Xi has not only shown a firm belief in building people-to-people ties, but also in establishing personal relationships with US leaders. In June 2013, less than three months after taking office, Xi traveled to Rancho Mirage in California for a two-day "shirt sleeve summit" with Barack Obama, who had started his second term as US president that year. During their talks, they shared their respective visions and agreed that positive China-US relations are good not only for their countries, but also the world. Both described the bilateral relationship as the most consequential in the 21st century. Richard Bush, a senior fellow at the John L. Thornton China Center of the Brookings Institution, said after the summit that it "met its primary goal of deepening the personal relationship between the two, and in charting a way forward on the key issues of their bilateral relationship". At Rancho Mirage, Xi assured the US and the world of China's determination for peaceful development, and proposed a new type of major country relationship based on nonconfrontation, nonconflict, mutual respect, and win-win cooperation. The proposal was made at a time when the US, hit hard by the 2008 global financial crisis, was concerned about its decline compared with other nations, particularly China. Speculation was rife about a rivalry between the established power and a rising power, known as the Thucydides Trap, which refers to the war between ancient Athens and Sparta. China overtook Japan as the world's second-largest economy in 2010, and four years later, the International Monetary Fund reported that the country had surpassed the US as the world's largest economy in terms of purchasing power parity. "With China continuing to gain economic strength relative to the US, the incumbent superpower undoubtedly feels under pressure," Cheng Li, director of the John L. Thornton China Center, said last year in an examination of China-US relations during Obama's eight years in office. "The two countries must continue adjusting to this new reality and seek balance in their relationship." Many US experts applauded the new type of major country relationship as China's effort to avoid the Thucydides Trap. David Lampton, a professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, praised the concept, saying "Beijing and Washington must take steps in several domains to build a major-power relationship in the 21st century that is not premised on conflict". When US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson visited Beijing in March, he said bilateral relations were "very positive" and "built on no confrontation, no conflict, mutual respect, and always searching for win-win solutions", a reflection of the deep influence of Xi's proposal. Shen Dingli, associate dean of Fudan University's Institute of International Studies, praised Xi for the concept. "Xi has aspired to make a more equal bilateral partnership between China and the US. What he has termed as a new type of major country relationship intends to present a mutually respectful and beneficial relationship, which more or less has been on the track." Ties in the Trump era Like his informal summit with Obama in California, Xi has tried to build personal ties with US President Donald Trump. In their first face-to-face informal summit in April at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Xi told Trump that "there are 1,000 reasons to make the China-US relationship a success, and not a single reason to break it". Trump has praised the Chinese president on multiple occasions, and he said he will try to build a good working relationship with Xi. The mood looked cordial as Trump's 5-year-old granddaughter Arabella, the daughter of Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, sang in Mandarin and recited a Chinese poem for Xi and first lady Peng Liyuan. Li at the John L. Thornton China Center said Xi values personal ties with his US counterpart. While many analysts emphasize the differences between Xi and Trump due to the contrasting cultural and sociopolitical environments in which they grew up, Li said they have far more in common, citing Xi's desire to fulfill the Chinese Dream of a rejuvenated nation and Trump's aim to "make America great again". Trump has shown support for China's Belt and Road Initiative, sending a delegation to Beijing in May to attend the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. Meanwhile, the countries have concluded the inaugural four comprehensive dialogues announced by Xi and Trump at the Mar-a-Lago summit - a diplomatic and security dialogue, economic dialogue, law enforcement and cybersecurity dialogue, and social and people-to-people dialogue. Cui Tiankai, Chinese ambassador to the US, said the two leaders have set a constructive tone and pointed the way forward for bilateral relations at their meetings at Mar-a-Lago and in Hamburg in July. Trump's planned state visit to China in November is expected to "take the China-US relationship to a new level", he said. chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com With the 19th Communist Party of China National Congress about to open, leading US think tank experts are looking forward to seeing which direction Chinese policies are going on the economy, domestic politics and foreign policy. The twice-per-decade congress, to be convened by the largest political party in the world on Oct 18, will be attended by nearly 2,300 delegates, representing 89 million members, more than the population of Germany. It is set to chart the course of growth for the world's second-largest economy in the next five years. "I expect on October 18 what we will witness is a smooth transition from the 18th Party Congress to the 19th with a new lineup for the Politburo and Politburo standing committee," said Scott Kennedy, deputy director of the Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. David M. Lampton, director of China Studies at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, also said Americans will be looking at the policymaking structure. As usual, the 19th Party Congress will elect the Party's 19th Central Committee, which will then hold its first plenum immediately after the congress to elect the general secretary, members of the Politburo and other senior leaders. The election of the Politburo Standing Committee, the country's highest political decision-making body, is receiving widespread attention because its members will make key decisions on China's policies in the years to come. "I believe in the end leaders count, so we have to be concerned who the leaders are," Lampton said, adding that political observers will perhaps have to wait until the National People's Congress, the country's annual legislative meeting, which usually opens in early spring, to get a full picture of "what people emerge, how many of them are on the key decision-making (body), and what we know about their policy priorities". "So I think we look at the Party Congress plus the People's Congress as a package to see the whole thing unfold, but the most important step is the 19th Party Congress," he said. Lampton, former president of the National Committee on United States-China Relations, also said he is interested in knowing what the 19th Party Congress is going to say about the balance between market and state-championed industry. Plans for reforming state-owned enterprises also are a key point of interest for Kennedy. "One of the biggest challenges of China's economy is making the economy more efficient and improving the performance of state enterprises," Kennedy said. "And so trying to see what those plans are going to be, I think American policymakers, investors and independent analysts are going to be looking at that." Other questions that he hoped to get answers from the congress include how China is going to expand its efforts in economic reform and what role China sees itself playing on the international stage. In addition, observers will be interested in learning what is going to happen with domestic governance. For example, if there will be further steps toward greater rule of law, or more expansion of the activities of non-state actors and civil society groups, he said. Douglas Paal, vice-president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said of the upcoming national meeting of the CPC: "In America, when we have elections, we don't do foreign policy. In China, when you have a Party Congress, you don't do much more in foreign policy, but you get the work done after," Paal said. "I hope we have a good full agenda of cooperation on the international scene after the Party Congress," the former diplomat said. huanxinzhao@chinadailyusa.com US President Donald Trump is scheduled to embark on his first state visit to China on Nov 8, a trip that both Beijing and Washington expect to bear bountiful fruit and inject new energy into relations between the world's two largest economies. Trump's itinerary was announced by the White House on Monday. He would be the second US president to make a state visit to China in the first year of his presidency. President Barack Obama visited in November 2009 in his first year in office. "On November 8, President Trump will arrive in Beijing, China for a series of bilateral, commercial, and cultural events, including meetings with President Xi Jinping," the White House said in a statement. It would be their third meeting in a year. The two presidents have met twice this year, in Mar-a-Lago in Florida in April, and in Hamburg, Germany during the G20 summit in July. The trip will make Trump among the first foreign leaders to meet the new Chinese leadership after the ruling party has concluded its 19th national congress, a crucial twice-in-a-decade meeting, meaning that he would probably learn first-hand about China's growth path for the next five years and beyond. In his latest phone conversation with Xi last month, Trump said that this year both the US and China have important domestic agendas, and he hopes that those agendas can be carried out smoothly. Scott Kennedy, deputy director of the Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said first that Trump's visit to Beijing will try to establish a clear framework for the relationship that identifies the core principles that the relationship is based on, and the shared goals that the two countries have, whether it's dealing with bilateral or multilateral issues. "The second is going to be trying to find a path for progress in dealing with economic issues," Kennedy told China Daily, because the Trump administration has wanted to make economic relations "much fairer". The third is on security issues. "I think there is going to need to be some sense of progress on how to deal with some of the hot spots in the Asia-Pacific region, most importantly on the Korean Peninsula, which is in the news every day and threatens to become a much wider problem," he said. Trump's visit to China would be his third leg in Asia, preceded by his stay in Japan, South Korea and followed by visits in the Vietnam and the Philippines between Nov 5-14, according to the White House. Preparations for Trump's visit have been going on since the two heads of state's first meeting in April. China's State Councilor Yang Jiechi, Foreign Minister Wang Yi and US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson have either met in Beijing, Bonn and Washington or held separate phone conversations several times, discussing Trump's China tour. Leading up to the visit, Beijing and Washington have completed the first round of the four cabinet-level dialogues agreed to by the two presidents at their Mar-a-Lago meeting on fields including economy, diplomacy, security, social and cultural exchange, law enforcement and cybersecurity. Courtesy of Rebecca Coolidge/Anchorage CVB Planet Earth Adventures provides outstanding guided tours of the city and surrounding areas. A day tour with them is one of the best ways to experience Anchorage. Tours are led by expert guides who share their knowledge and expertise on the location, as well as divulge information and interesting facts about the region. They focus on small groups and offer a range of tours to suit every need. Outstanding day tours leaving from Anchorage include the Alaska Wildlife Tour, which takes you along the Turnagain Arm on the Seward Parkway to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The center displays some of the countrys incredible wildlife along the way, such as caribou, eagles and moose. The Anchorage City Tour is a fantastic new tour that explores both the historical and cultural sites of the city with visits to many famous landmarks. Other interesting tours leaving from Anchorage include the Turnagain Arm Tour, the Glacial Discovery Tour, and the Chugach Wilderness Experience. -- "Best Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska for Locals & Tourists - Restaurants, Hotels" Back to Top 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. A NANG The Ulatech Joint Stock Company launched a car-hailing app for smartphones called ULA in the central city of a Nang on Saturday. The app is aimed at helping passengers to book cars and drivers to seek customers. It is also expected to make the search for restaurants, hospitals and pharmacies in Viet Nam much easier. To encourage the Vietnamese to use Viet Nam-made products, the application costs Vietnamese drivers less than similar foreign applications, said a representative of the company. Anyone with iOS or Android smartphones can download and use the ULA app free of charge. Tran Nguyen Song Han, director of the technology company, said that he expected the app to usher in benefits to the society. Ulatech will focus on research to improve and diversify its products in various fields in the upcoming time. Ulatech said it would also expand operating areas for the ULA app to other big cities in Viet Nam by next year. In addition, the company also plans to bring Ulacoin (ULC) into use as a means of payment when ULA becomes more popular. Users can pay by ULC when using ULA app at all linkage points of Ulatech. Established in July, Ulatech Joint Stock Company specialises in programming, web design, phone applications and games. As Uber and Grab are taking over the Vietnamese online car market, the countrys technology community does not want to let the domestic market fall into the hands of foreign players. Previously, many Vietnamese car companies also introduced car-hailing apps such as those of Taxi Group, Vinasun, Mai Linh, Thanh Cong and Sao Thu o. Recently, Viettel telecom signed a comprehensive strategic co-operation agreement with Vietnamese transportation startup Gonow. Last year, another technology giant VNG also introduced 123Xe car-hailing app. VNS HA NOI Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh has urged businesses to develop corporate culture, a factor critical for brand building and sustainable development. Binh was speaking at a forum about corporate culture, jointly held by the Viet Nam Association of Corporate Culture Development and the HCM City Women Entrepreneur Association in the southern city on Sunday afternoon. Binh said corporate culture should be regarded as the decisive factor for sustainable development of any firm and of the whole economy for rapid international integration. A good brand is not only an asset of the company, but also of the country, he said. However, the development of corporate culture among Vietnamese businesses remained limited, especially in the building of business ethics, which created stinging social problems. Many firms, for profits, violated regulations, such as selling fake and poor-quality products. This was causing economic losses and undermining consumer confidence in Vietnamese goods. Binh urged businesses to strive towards building corporate culture, complying with established laws and healthy competition. The Government would assist businesses through the efforts to enhance the legal institution, hastening administrative reform and improving business climate and competitiveness, Binh said. In addition, violations would be strictly penalised to create favourable conditions for businesses to start, develop and renovate. Nguyen Thanh Phong, chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee, said the city wanted firms to share difficulties they faced in building corporate culture, through which support would be raised to help firms develop sustainably. HCM City currently has some 323,000 firms, more than 98 per cent of which were of micro and small scale, however, most failed to build corporate culture. According to Cao Ngoc Dung from Phu Nhuan Jewelry, Vietnamese firms should cooperate with each others to grow instead of competing in an unhealthy manner. At the conference, the Viet Nam Association of Corporate Culture Development announced the setting of standards for corporate culture, which included six criteria -- culture of leadership, building and implementing corporate value, law abidance and business ethics, as well as social responsibility and healthy competition. An organisation board for the campaign to build corporate culture in Viet Nam also made its debut at the conference. VNS HA NOI Viet Nams sovereign fund State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) will sell 3.33 per cent of the States capital in Viet Nam Dairy Products Joint Stock Company (Vinamilk) on November 10 this year, the SCIC announced on Monday. This is the second sale of the States capital in the Viet Nams biggest dairy firm, with the first also run by the SCIC in December last year. Details on the upcoming auction, scheduled for the HCM Stock Exchange, have not been disclosed, but the advisor consortium for the sale the Singaporean branch of Swiss financial services firm UBS AG and Saigon Securities Inc (SSI) will advise on the sale planning, set the initial price, seek foreign and domestic investors, and organise the sale. SCIC holds a 39.34 per cent stake in Vinamilk, equivalent to nearly 571 million shares as of December 31, 2016. In the previous deal that took place in December 12, 2016, the SCIC offloaded more than 130 million shares in the dairy firm but sold only 60 per cent of them. Singapore-based dairy group Fraser and Neave Ltd (F&N) was the only foreign investor interested in Vinamilks shares then. Its two subsidiaries F&N Dairy Investment Ltd and F&N Bev Manufacturing Pte Ltd spent nearly US$500 million at the auction. The advisory firms for the previous deal were the Singaporean branch of Morgan Stanley Asia Limited, SSI and VinaCapital Corporate Finance Viet Nam Limited. SCIC chairman Nguyen uc Chi said the SCIC and the advisor consortium are working to organise two non-deal roadshows abroad in Singapore and Hong Kong. In Viet Nam, the SCIC will hold a roadshow in HCM Stock Exchange on October 18. About 24 investors in Singapore have expressed interest in the auction, along with 11 in Hong Kong. Most of them are new investors and large international investment funds which want private discussions, Chi said, adding that the SCIC has yet to receive an offer from F&N. F&N is now Vinamilks largest foreign shareholder, with a total 18.74 per cent of shares. In this offering, the SCIC will not either limit the proportion of shares one investor can buy or set criteria for investors, Chi said. With regard to the initial selling price, the SCIC chairman said: We have not decided the price yet. We expect to disclose it about 7-10 days prior to the auction so that the starting price will be close to the market price and not affect Vinamilks share price. He said the starting price of VN154,000 ($6.78) per share was suggested by the Steering Committee for Enterprise Renewal and Development but investors must wait until the auction date for the official price. Vinamilks shares closed Monday down 0.5 per cent at VN148,600 a share. The share price has increased 18.3 per cent since the beginning of this year. The SCIC will make public the information and draft regulations on the share sale by October 21 and announce the initial selling price and receive deposits from November 1. Regarding foreign investors concerns about registration procedures, the SCICs deputy general director Nguyen Chi Thanh said the SCIC has reported to the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Finance, the State Bank of Viet Nam and the State Securities Commission to create favourable conditions for investors to participate in the auction, such as accepting deposits in US dollars and extending time for registering transaction codes. Listed companies shall be exempt from making a public bid but must send interest of purchase to the auction board seven days before the auction. VNS HA NOI Creating encouraging polices and a clear legal system is crucial to attracting investment to creative start-ups, according to a Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) official. ang Huy ong, deputy minister of Planning and Investment, said that currently, guidelines on the establishment, management and funding and investment mechanisms for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including creative firms, are prescribed in Article 18 of the SMEs assistance law. However, bar Article 18, Viet Nams legal system has no specific regulations on creative start-ups investment procedure, legal status, organisational structure, rights, responsibilities and obligations of related parties. Therefore, a decree should be issued to define the legal status of innovative start-ups and investment funds, as well as incentives for and limitation on these entities profit-generating means and social impact, and at the same time address the legal systems limitations in the matter. The MPI has begun drafting such a decree, aiming to establish foundations for innovative start-ups and exempt them from corporate income tax for a definite period of time. The draft is now undergoing consultation, with its 40 articles based on experiences from developed countries such as Canada, the US, Singapore and the EU, stated the Enterprise Development Agency under the MPI. The draft features detailed provisions on the financial conditions of creative start-up investors and principles of innovative start-up investment, plus regulations on these companies legal status, management, operation and establishment procedures. The draft proposes that individual investors must meet certain financial conditions, such as having an average annual income of VN200 million (US$8,900) for the last two years before their investment application, or having total assets of VN500 million ($22,250), minus their personal debts. For investing organisations, total required assets in their latest financial report must be no less than VN1 billion ($44,500). Additionally, creative start-up investors, enterprises, organisations and individuals must stay aware of their contributed capital proportion and their legal responsibility in combating money laundering in Viet Nam. The ministry hopes the draft will create an appropriate legal corridor to channel capital for start-ups in Viet Nam, by generating more options for investors to make investments through innovative companies and funds. ong also commented that if foreign creative projects are registered in Viet Nam, they would be incorporated into the countrys creative development, contributing to the improvement of national credit rating and investment attractiveness. In the context of rapidly developing technology, creative start-ups are the main force of the innovative ecosystem. Though associated with high-risks due to the high requirements of technology and innovation, creative start-ups can contribute great economic value and enhance national competitiveness. Given the high-risks involved with these firms, traditional funding channels such as bank loans are less suitable than start-up ventures as a source of funding. The Government should also issue policies to support start-ups investment activities, such as tax exemptions and reductions, pre-financing, counterpart funds, or unsecured lending for start-ups to minimise risk to private investors. Viet Nam is working towards becoming a start-up nation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), targeting one million effective enterprises by 2020, facilitating technological innovation by giving priority access to finance, and opening up new market opportunities. VNS HA NOI Shares declined on the HCM Stock Exchange on Monday after rallying for six consecutive sessions as large-cap stocks lost steam on late profit-taking. The benchmark VN-Index fell 0.19 per cent to close at 819.43 points, putting a dent in its previous six-day rally in which the benchmark increased nearly 2 per cent. Market trading liquidity rose in comparison with Fridays figures. Roughly 169 million shares were traded on the southern exchange, worth VN4.06 trillion (US$180.5 million). The figures represented an increase of 9.6 per cent in trading volume and 21 per cent in trading value compared with Friday. The market breadth of the southern exchange was negative, with 149 declining shares against 128 gaining ones and 40 unchanged. The VN30 Index, which tracks the performance of the 30 largest stocks by market capitalisation and trading liquidity, edged down 0.44 per cent as half the stocks suffered losses. The 15 declining stocks in the VN30 basket fell between 0.2 per cent and 2.5 per cent with the worst-performing stocks being property developer Vingroup (VIC), steel company Hoa Phat (HPG), Binh Minh Plastic Co (BMP) and logistics firm Gemadept (GMD). Mid-cap and micro-cap stocks also underperformed. The mid-cap stock index was down 0.09 per cent and the micro-cap dropped 0.13 per cent, according to market data site vietstock.vn. The benchmark VN Index went down when it was about to test the level of 824 points and the index could fall further in coming sessions, Bao Viet Securities Cos analyst Tran Xuan Bach wrote in the companys note. Investors were more worried and cautious when the benchmark VN Index approached the range of 824-828 points, forcing them to offload more shares in the closing period, Bach said. The six-day rally was also an important factor in investor selling on the southern market, he added. The VN-Index will face a short-term correction if investors cannot find a group of stocks that is attractive enough to lure investment into the market. In the next few days, the VN-Index could fall back to its near supportive ranges, which is forecast to be between 810 and 815 points or between 798 and 802 points, Bach added. The HNX-Index on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange gained 0.18 per cent to close at 109.30 points. It advanced 0.67 per cent on Friday. More than 45.6 million shares were exchanged on the northern bourse, worth VN536.5 billion. VNS HA NOI Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited (BSR) plans to sell some five to six per cent stake to domestic and foreign investors, collecting estimated revenue of nearly VN2 trillion (US$88 million) through its initial public offering (IPO) in November 2017. The information was revealed by Tran Ngoc Nguyen, the BSRs general director, on stockbiz.vn. He expected all the shares would be sold during the upcoming IPO because the production situation, revenue and profit of the company were positive from the investors view. The starting price will be based on the market situation, with the participation of reputable domestic and international companies. "We will announce the starting price close to the IPO date and update the latest business results," Nguyen added. In the next 12 months, the company targets to sell 49 per cent stake to strategic investors, estimated at $1 billion and bring the States ownership to less than 50 per cent. BSR is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Viet Nam National Oil and Gas Group (PetroVietnam) and operator of the $3 billion Dung Quat Oil Refinery, the first oil refinery in the country. Tran inh Thien, director of the Viet Nam Institute Economics, said the strength of Dung Quat Oil Refinery is to create petrol, an essential product for domestic and business purposes. With processing capacity of over 6.5 million tonnes of crude oil per year and meeting over 30 per cent of the domestic demand, BSR has stable cash flow. It is the significant factor for large investors to consider investing capital. However, BSR should build a strict, transparent and effective corporate governance system to develop sustainably and create trust for investors, Thien suggested. According to BSRs business result for the first nine months of 2017, the company earned revenue of more than VN55 trillion, exceeding 125 per cent of the target plan, and after-tax profit of nearly VN5.5 trillion, contributing over VN6.5 trillion to the State budget. Besides this, the firms return on equity was 16.09 per cent, a year-on-year increase of 12.43 per cent. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam generated US$438 million from exporting 13.6 million tonnes of cement and clinker over the past nine months of this year, fulfilling 90 per cent of the yearly target. The nine-month exports also marked respective increases of 12.7 per cent in value and 21.4 per cent in volume compared with the same period last year, statistics from the General Department of Customs revealed. In September alone, the countrys cement and clinker exports reached more than 1.53 million, valued at $53.7 million, up 10.6 per cent in volume but down one per cent in value over August, according to the data. During the January-September period, Bangladesh and the Philippines remained the two largest importers of Vietnamese cement and clinker, accounting for 33.8 per cent and 31.8 per cent of the countrys total exports, respectively. Bangladesh imported 5.53 million tonnes of cement and clinker, worth $162.4 million, from Viet Nam during the period, while Philippines spent $153.2 million on importing 3.43 million tonnes of Viet Nams cement and clinker. Other major consumers included Taiwan, which imported 778,000 tonnes, valued at $23.3 million; Peru (436,000 tonnes, $20.5 million); and Sri Lanka (423,000 tonnes, $12.5 million). Despite positive export performance in the nine-month period, domestic enterprises are still worried about the cement oversupply in the future as a new production line of the Xuan Thanh cement factory in northern Ha Nam Province has started operations, providing 4.5 million tonnes of cement annually. The nations total designed cement production capacity to date is estimated at nearly 100 million tonnes. VNS HA NOI As many as 31 sponsors have committed support in kind and cash for APEC Year 2017 hosted by Viet Nam. Among the sponsors whose names were announced by the APEC Sponsorship Mobilisation Committee at a ceremony in Ha Noi yesterday are Audi Vietnam, Vingroup, Vietnam Airlines, Boeing, military-run telecom group Viettel, Minh Long High-Class Ceramics, Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) and Sun Group. They pledged sponsorships valued at VN10 billion (US$440,000) or above each, both in kind and cash. The remainders are eight major sponsors with commitments between VN5 billion and VN10 billion each, two co-sponsors who pledged between VN3 billion and VN5 billion for the event, and 13 sponsors with sponsor value of below VN3 billion. Addressing the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh, who is also President of the APEC 2017 National Committee, applauded contributions of the sponsors to activities within APEC Year 2017. Such contributions demonstrated businesses confidence in policies of the Party and State, he said. Through the hosting of APEC 2017, Viet Nam aims to implement its policy of active and proactive international integration, and prove itself as a responsible member of the international community, according to Minh. Viet Nam has also taken this occasion to promote its image as a dynamic country which is developing robustly, and its enterprises during international integration. Bui Thanh Son, Deputy Foreign Minister and head of the APEC 2017 Secretariat, said from December 2016 until now, Viet Nam organised six Ministerial Meetings and six Senior Officials Meetings in eight cities and provinces, with the participation of 10,000 domestic and foreign delegates. The APEC Economic Leaders Week will take place in a Nang from November 6 to 11. The event will bring together around 10,000 delegates from 21 APEC member economies. Established in 1989, APEC comprises Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong (China), Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, the US, and Viet Nam. VNS HA NOI The simplification of Viet Nams governance structure over the last decade or so has not resulted in significant changes in policy-making and macro-economic management. The process began in 2007, but the bureaucracy is still bloated and its payroll continues to increase in size, exerting greater pressure on the State exchequer. Acknowledging the hurdles still in the way of administrative reforms, the Party has called for stronger and more practical reforms, from the grassroots to the central levels. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the sixth Party Central Committee Meeting earlier this month, Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong expressed high appreciation of efforts made by the Party, the Government, the Viet Nam Fatherland Front and other agencies in accelerating institutional changes. However, the wait is still on for a positive breakthrough that can affect far-reaching, sustainable changes. According to a Government report, since 2007, its structure has been simplified, with 18 ministries, four ministry-level agencies and eight Government agencies. However, in August 2017, the National Assembly (NA) Supervisory Delegation pointed out that the change has created no significant impact in terms of policymaking and macro-economic management. The socialisation and decentralisation processes have not been conducted efficiently. The merging of ministries has not included due adjustments of their functions. Therefore, some agencies are now overwhelmed with tasks and projects that should be handled by subordinate entities. The resolution adopted by the Politburo in 2015 has had little effect on reducing the number of public units as 28 and 822 new public units were established under ministries and general departments, respectively from 2011 to 2016. Phung Quoc Hien, NA Vice Chairman, said public administration has improved over the years, but not to the extent required. This wastes State Budget resources and keeps the bureaucracy cumbersome and impractical, he said. Overlapping functions The increase in the number of public agencies has led to overlapping management of many issues, sparking conflicts of opinion among many ministries. For instance, food safety, tourism, debt and rural development can fall under the purview of two or three ministries. Enterprises spending on specialised evaluations are multiplied since conclusions are not mutually recognised among ministries. Additionally, interdisciplinary agencies are established to solve common issues, increasing the number of meetings held to tackle them. Su Ngoc Anh, director of the HCM City Department of Planning and Investment, said that in the seven first months of 2017, the department leaders attended more than 2000 conferences, three to four per day, not to mention emergency meetings. Such prolificacy is expensive and places a huge burden on the State budget. Lack of legal uniformity The lack of a synchronised legal framework has obstructed ministries from properly implementing the Partys policies. Moreover, special laws have not promoted proper decentralisation and have failed to address the issue of power concentration in the economic sector. Furthermore, the functions and duties of ministries and Governments agencies are not clearly legislated; and this is one of the factors contributing to the increasing size of the bureaucracy. State fiscal dependence The continued dependence of public units on Government funding indicates inadequate management of financial resources. The State budget allocates funds for paying 5.4 million people on the public-sector payroll. To ease this burden, the Government has been encouraging public sector units to manage their own affairs, including finances, and improve the quality of public services. They have been allowed to plan their use of State budget allocations, develop the human resources, expand operations, raise workers wages and sign labour contracts in order to complete assigned tasks. Agencies that can control their operational costs can also decide on their payroll. Meanwhile it is worth bearing in mind that 30 per cent of the State budget spends on public agencies, according to Le Vinh Tan, Home Affairs Minister. Tan also stressed the abundance of public agenices in localities. The central province of Thanh Hoa, for example, is home to 2,500 agencies, while ak Nong Province has 500, mostly in education, health and science research. In 2016, about 57,000 public agencies, accounting for 27.33 per cent, were self-funded, and the remaining depend heavily on the State budget. A report prepared by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) in 2016 indicated that there were 1,432 public scientific organisations, more than the Government can actually fund with only three financially independent ones. Deputy Prime Minister Vuong inh Hue has noted that in the sci-tech sector, skilled staff (scientists, technicians, etc) are few, with the majority comprising management officials. According to Nguyen Huu Quang, deputy head of the NA Financial and Budgetary Committee, inadequate financial mechanisms are causing dependence and preventing public sector units from attracting funding from other sources, he said. At the meeting, Party leader Trong stressed the need to create favourable conditions for researchers and scientists with priority policies, improve public services quality and avoid misspending. Payroll reform Public sector restructuring does not just mean a reduction in staff, it also requires enhancing efficiency, said NA deputy Le Thanh Van of Ca Mau Province. While the restructuring policy has been around for a long time, its implementation has remained incomplete. NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan said We all agreed upon restructuring the public sector, however, no one wanted to carry it out in their localities or agencies." Deputy Van from Ca Mau Province said at an NA meeting that while State expenditure keeps increasing, the quality of staff varied. As of mid-2017, the numbers of civil servants and staff were estimated at 270,000 and 2.44 million respectively. In general, the State payroll witnessed a decrease from 2011 to 2016, especially between 2014 and 2016, when staff strength reduced by 4,000 each year. However, in 2016, the number rose again, mostly in the education and health sectors with increases of 136,663 and 54,500 staff respectively. There is one public staff in every 40 people in Viet Nam while in US, the ratio is 1:160 in the 30 times bigger area and four times higher population. A Government report shows that 13 of 15 ministries and ministerial-level agencies have exceeded their payroll target. Only the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Ministry of Home Affairs have proposed that they reduce their staff; the others asked to recruit more. After two years of implementing the Politburos resolution on public sector restructuring in 2015 and 2016, more than 17,000 staff reduced, including 731 working in Party agencies, 2,253 working at administrative offices and 11,206 working in other public sector agencies. As noted in an earlier example, the public sector has witnessed an increase in the number of management officials over skilled staff. From 2011 to 2016, the number of managers in ministries departments increased from 12,216 to 14,556. A similar increase was also seen in ministry-level agencies and other Government bodies, with the number of managers rising from 3,871 to 4,619. This excess is also true of localities, leading to poor management and responsibility in the public sector, Van said. Budget burden At a time when the pressure of public debt has been rising, the spending on bureaucracy is accounting for a huge proportion of the Stage budget. According to Nguyen Huu Quang, deputy head of the NA Financial and Budgetary Committee, in the last five years, regular expenditures increased rapidly, from VN370,000 billion ($16.2 billion) in 2011 to VN740,000 billion ($32.6 billion) in 2016. Therefore, financial security is not guaranteed, he said. Debts are not being repaid on time, and have to be rolled over. Over the past three years, State assets have been sold and additional dividends paid to offset the expenses. Economist Pham Chi Lan said the State budget cannot pay for 11 million public staff across the country. She also emphasised the importance of autonomy for public agencies to deal with this situation. Other experts have said that while reducing the number of people on the State payroll, the public sector needs to enhance the capacity of remaining staff. Van noted that if Viet Nam can annually reduce the State payroll by 1.5 per cent each year, State budget spending can save from VN800 to 900 billion ($35.2 to 39.6 million). But it was important that the restructuring focuses on staff quality, not quantity, Van said. VNS Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) met with a delegation of US parliamentarians led by Ted Yoho, chairman of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific within the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in Ha Noi on Monday. VNA/VNS Photo Thong Nhat HA NOI Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc met with a delegation of US parliamentarians led by Ted Yoho, chairman of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific within the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in Ha Noi on Monday. PM Phuc said the Government and people of Viet Nam appreciate the support that the US Congress, including many members of the House of Representatives, has given to the Asian-Pacific region and the development of the USs comprehensive partnership with Viet Nam, especially in helping US businesses invest in Viet Nam. He affirmed that Viet Nam attaches importance to relations with the US and wants to reinforce the partnership in a result-oriented manner on the basis of respecting each others independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and political regimes, for the sake of the countries people as well as for peace, stability, co-operation and development. PM Phuc lauded the increasingly positive development of Viet Nam-US relations in bilateral, regional and global aspects. He also mentioned the growing ties between the two countries parliaments, particularly exchanges of views between their lawmakers. Viet Nam welcomes more US parliamentarians to visit to learn about its history, culture, country and people as well as to seek measures to foster ties. For his part, Yoho said he is happy to meet PM Phuc again after his phone calls with the Vietnamese leader last May. He said as Chairman of the Asia and the Pacific Subcommittee at the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs, he will work harder to enhance cultural and trade co-operation and legislative experience sharing, thus helping relations to develop. VNS ASTANA Chairwoman of the National Assembly of Viet Nam Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan arrived in Astana on Monday afternoon, beginning her three-day official visit to Kazakhstan. She was welcomed at Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport by Vietnamese Ambassador to Kazakhstan oan Thi Xuan Hien, Vice Chairman of the Mazhilis (lower house) of the Parliament of Kazakhstan Bojko Vladimir Karpovich and staff of the Vietnamese Embassy in Kazkhastan. This is the first-ever visit to Kazakhstan by a Vietnamese National Assembly leader. The visit is being made at the invitation of Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament Kassym Zhomart Tokayev and Chairman of the Mazhilis, Nurlan Nigmatulin. The Vietnamese and Kazakh legislative bodies have maintained collaboration over the years, both bilaterally and multilaterally. The visit to Kazakhstan by Chairwoman Ngan is expected to foster ties in economy, trade, investment, energy and culture-education. The Vietnamese top legislator earlier attended the 137th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly (IPU-137) in Saint Petersburg, Russia. VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc attended an event yesterday marking 40 years of Viet Nams membership in the United Nations (UN). On September 20, 1977, the UN General Assembly adopted Viet Nam as its 149th member. The moment the red flag with a gold star (Viet Nams national flag) was flown at the headquarters of the United Nations marked the recognition of an independent, free and unified state of Viet Nam on the way towards oi moi (Renewal) and international integration, Phuc said at the opening speech of the anniversary event. Expressing gratitude for the support of the UN and the international community over the past four decades, PM Phuc said he believed the UN was like a light of hope uniting all countries in overcoming challenges to ensure prosperity and happiness for all. We look forward to the fact that the UN will continue to sustain peace and international security and to prevent conflicts and disputes, while promoting peaceful solutions to resolve (existing) conflicts and disputes in respect of the UN Charter and international law, he said. Strengthening effective ties with the UN was always one of the top priorities of Viet Nams foreign policy, Phuc added. He said Viet Nam was committed to being a responsible member of the UN agencies, and would plan to expand its peacekeeping operations as well as implement the Sustainable Development Agenda and the COP21 Agreement on climate change. Viet Nam also hopes for international support in its bid to become a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in the 2020-2021 term, he said. UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, sent a message congratulating Viet Nam on being a successful example of economic development. Guterres also welcomed Viet Nams commitments to strengthen co-operation among developing countries and expressed hope that the country would play a bigger role in the UNs peacekeeping operations. The UN Resident Co-ordinator in Viet Nam, Kamal Malhotra, meanwhile, pledged that the UN would keep supporting Viet Nam by providing advanced policy consultancy, and sharing international experiences in tackling challenges Viet Nam also faces in order to help the country achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. PM Phuc and Malhotra also inaugurated a photo exhibition on Viet Nam-UN relations over the last four decades. VNS HA NOI US President Donald Trump will make an official visit to Viet Nam on November 11, the White House announced late on Monday. The White House release provided additional details on Trumps upcoming Asia trip, set to take place from November 3-14. He will visit Japan, South Korea, China, Viet Nam, the Philippines and Hawaii. After attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Summit held in Viet Nams a Nang City on November 10, President Trump will fly to Ha Noi to meet with his Vietnamese counterpart Tran ai Quang. According to the White House, Trump is also scheduled to hold talks with other top Vietnamese leaders. He is expected to leave for Manila on November 12. President Trumps visit will mark the third consecutive year Viet Nam and the US have undertaken high-level official visits to either country. Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc visited the US in 2015 and 2017 respectively, while then-President Obama came to Viet Nam last year. VNS HA NOI Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha on Monday led a team of government officials to meet local officials in areas affected by heavy rains and floods, in order to support recovery efforts. Thanh Hoa is one of three localities hardest hit by the recent heavy rains and floods, triggered by the tropical low-pressure system last week. Ha ordered the ministrys units to delay other non-urgent activities to support the localities in restoring normalcy to peoples daily lives. He also called upon the ministrys staff to donate resources and money for people living in affected areas. On Sunday Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh also held a working session with the local authorities to direct recovery from the heavy rains and floods. Minh requested the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to promptly repair two dykes in Xuan Minh and Tho Truong communes. The damage to the dykes means another downpour would put over 440,000 households in three districts of Tho Xuan, Yen inh and Thieu Hoa at serious risk. The same day, National Assembly Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong arrived in the northern mountainous province of Son La to inspect damage from the October 9-11 floods. Phong and local officials presented gifts to affected families. 72 dead The latest statistics from the Central Steering Committee for Natural Disasters Prevention and Control showed the death toll from the devastating floods in Viet Nams northern and central regions has increased to 72, while another 30 remain missing. The committees report, released on Monday, also said that Hoa Binh was hit the hardest as 23 people were killed in the flood and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, followed by Thanh Hoa with 16 casualties and Yen Bai with 15. Nghe An and Son La lost nine and six people, respectively, while Ha Noi and Quang Tri reported two and one respectively. The toll was likely to rise in the upcoming days as search and rescue efforts continued for the 30 missing people. The tropical storm Nakhun on Monday weakened to a tropical low-pressure system. It was moving southwest at 15km per hour. Due to the tropical low-pressure system, heavy rains are forecast to hit the north and north-central provinces till the end of Tuesday. VNS President Tran ai Quang on Monday sent condolences to his Somali counterpart, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, after the devastating terrorist bombing that hit the capital Mogadishu on Saturday. Photo AFP HA NOI President Tran ai Quang on Monday sent condolences to his Somali counterpart, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, after the devastating terrorist bombing that hit the capital Mogadishu on Saturday. More than 300 people were killed in the truck bombing, and the death toll is predicted to rise as many people remain unaccounted for. The country declared three days of national mourning following the attack. VNS HA NOI Over 30,000 tonnes of sulphur have been left in the open at Hoang Dieu Port in northern Hai Phong City for 20 days, causing concern over the risk of fire and environmental pollution. The sulphur was contained in a simple package, with no one being assigned to guard it, despite the fact that it is a substance, which requires stringent supervision, the Nguoi Lao ong (The Labourer) newspaper reported. Port workers, as well as those living near the port, have been suffering from an unbearable stench emanating from the piles of sulphur. Pham Thi Hai, 53, who resides in Hai Phong Citys Ngo Quyen District, told the newspaper that she had to shut the door of her house all day due to the bad smell. Tran Luong Phuong, Deputy Director of Hoang Dieu Port One-Member Limited Company under the Hai Phong Port, said the sulphur is being imported by Traco 1 Joint Stock Company to be re-exported to China. Usually, these consignments are supposed to be stored at the port for five days or a maximum of 15 days, before being re-exported, he said. However, due to heavy rains and flooding in the northern provinces, the company and its partners could not complete procedures to receive the goods on time. A meeting was held on Monday between Hai Phong Port Authority and Traco 1 Co. Ltd, the owners of the 30,000 tonnes of sulphur stored at Hoang Dieu port, to discuss plans on handling these consignments, Phuong said. "Leaders of the Traco 1 Co. Ltd said they would try to move the shipment to a safe place as soon as possible. It is likely that the shipment will be relocated by the end of this month," Phuong said. Before importing and loading these consignments, the port authorities set up fire prevention and environmental protection measures, approved by competent agencies, he said. VNS MIAMI Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency on Monday in northern Florida ahead of a speech by white supremacist leader Richard Spencer, who was involved in a march in August that ended in violent clashes. Spencer, a leader of the so-called "alt-right" movement, is due to give a speech on Thursday at the University of Florida in Gainesville, a town of some 130,000. Saying there was an "imminent" threat of a potential emergency as a result, Scott explained that the emergency declaration will ensure that security forces have all the necessary resources at their disposition. "We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority," Scott said, adding that local authorities had requested the extra help. "This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe." Spencer was involved in and spoke at a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia in August that triggered a weekend of clashes. A 32-year-old woman was killed when a car plowed into counter-protesters, and two police officers died in a helicopter crash as they were responding to the violence. The University of Florida agreed to host Spencer in the name of free speech, but indicated he was not invited to give the talk. The 39-year-old white supremacists group paid US$10,564 to rent the space, which will go toward some $500,000 the school is expected to pay to boost campus security. A group of students early on Monday protested Spencers planned appearance, asking the school to scrap his talk. "We encourage you to speak up with your voices in support of our proudly diverse community and the values of this institution," said Chief Linda Stump-Kurnick, assistant vice president of public and environmental safety at the school. "We also encourage you to avoid the event. Dont let the University of Florida be defined by Richard Spencer." According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, which monitors US hate groups, Spencer "advocates for an Aryan homeland for the supposedly dispossessed white race and calls for peaceful ethnic cleansing to halt the deconstruction of European culture". AFP TUNIS Tunisias navy has found the bodies of 26 migrants at sea a week after their boat collided with a navy vessel, bringing the death toll to 34, the defence ministry said. On October 8, a migrant boat sank following a collision with a navy vessel off the coast of the Kerkennah islands in the Mediterranean. At the time, the defence ministry said eight migrants drowned and 38 others were rescued, while NGOs spoke of dozens still missing. On Sunday night, a navy search and rescue vessel spotted the remains of the migrant boat and pulled out 10 bodies, the ministry said in a statement. The bodies of 16 other migrants were found on Monday, defence ministry spokesman Belhassen Oueslati said, putting the overall death toll so far from the collision to 34. One of the migrants rescued after the tragedy said that 90 people had been on board, hoping to make their way to Italy. An NGO, the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights, estimates the boat carried between 80 and 100 migrants. According to the International Organisation for Migration, there has been a rise in the number of migrants trying to make the perilous sea crossing from Tunisia to Europe since summer. Small vessels have been heading for the Italian islands of Sicily and Lampedusa. Flavio di Giacomo, an Italian spokesman for the IOM, said earlier this month that 1,400 Tunisians had arrived in Lampedusa and western Sicily in September alone. This is compared to 1,200 registered in Italy for all of 2016. The FTDES said in a report last year that half of Tunisian youths from low-income areas were thinking of leaving the country, and one in three was prepared to do so clandestinely. It blamed the situation on increasing poverty and unemployment in the North African country. AFP Academic research papers from the United States garner the most worldwide citations, followed by those from China and the United Kingdom, according to a new study. The analysis was conducted by Amsterdam-based information and analytics company Elsevier and commissioned by the UK's Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. Citations are the way in which scholars give credit to other researchers and acknowledge their ideas. They indicate how seriously research is taken by other scientists. Elsevier assessed the performance of the UK's research base between 2010 and 2014 and compared it with seven other countries: China, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US. In 2014, research papers originating in the UK accounted for 10.7 percent of all citations, which was slightly down from the 11 percent they garnered in 2010. China's share in 2014 was 18.1 percent, a sharp increase from the 11 percent it had in 2010.The US saw its share slip from 39.4 percent in 2010 to 35 percent in 2014. According to reports, the government received the study nine months ago but only released it last week. Speaking on Thursday at the annual conference of the Higher Education Funding Council for England, Jo Johnson, Britain's universities minister, said the study shows the UK is a strong performer as a research nation, despite having less than 1 percent of the world's population. "It goes without saying that UK universities are renowned for the quality of their research," Johnson said. "The government is publishing analysis by Elsevier that shows that the UK continues to punch above its weight as a research superpower." In 2014, the UK accounted for 15.2 percent of the worlds most heavily cited articles, while China produced 19.6 percent. The report said: "The global research landscape in recent years has become increasingly complex and fluid, and it can only become more so as emerging research nations grow their research bases." Authors said the UK and other research-intensive nations are seeing their global shares in key research indicators eroded by emerging countries, "especially by China". "As China and other rising research nations succeed in their desire to emulate and even surpass the research performance of countries like the US and the UK, their shares will naturally become larger while the erstwhile powerhouses see theirs shrink," the report said. The UK's gross domestic expenditure on research and development increased from to $38.2 billion in 2010 to $41.6 billion in 2014 at an annual growth rate of 2.2 percent. China spent $344.7 billion on research and development in 2014, up from $213.5 billion in 2010, an annual growth rate of 12.7 percent. WATERLOO A Waterloo couple has pleaded to charges they brought two teens from Chicago to Waterloo to engage in sex for money. Lawrence Edward Campbell Jr., 36, and Sade Desire Campbell, 25, entered guilty pleas to sex trafficking of children in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids on Sept. 20. The charge is punishable by 10 years to life in prison, and sentencing will be at a later date. Authorities said Lawrence Campbell met two 16-year-old girls on a social media website and offered to take care of them. They were sent bus tickets and arrived in Waterloo on Aug. 25, 2016, and stayed at the Campbells home on Clearview Street. One of the teens brought her infant daughter. Photos were taken of the teens, and the images were used in advertisements on Backpage.com. In the following days, the girls were taken to two Waterloo hotels and a home where they met men, according to court records. They were paid $200 to $350 but werent allowed to keep the money, records state. The teens were told they werent earning enough money and were taken to Crossroad Shopping Center to steal perfume, lingerie and clothing to sell. On Aug. 29, they were caught shoplifting at Target, and Waterloo police determined one of the teens was listed as a missing person. Investigators discovered the scheme, and Lawrence Campbell was arrested the following day. A person who was looking after the teens infant while they were shoplifting left the child at a fire station when they failed to return. WATERLOO The brother of a man suspected of trying to help the Islamic State had pleaded to federal gun charges. Wayne Jones Jr., also known as Wayne Jones II, was detained following an April search of his Waterloo apartment that coincided with a raid at his brothers home in the Chicago area. Waterloo man held, brother charged with supporting ISIS WATERLOO A Waterloo man has been detained on probation charges and his brother has been ch Wayne Jones, 37, was ultimately indicted on a charge of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Investigators found a 9mm Kel-Tec pistol, 10 rounds of 9mm ammo and 49 20-gauge shotgun shells, and they allege Jones used marijuana and had a prior felony drug conviction, which would bar him from handling guns. At the time of the search, Jones had an outstanding warrant for allegedly absconding while serving probation for a misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge in Wisconsin. On Monday, Jones pleaded guilty to the firearm charge in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids. He faces up to 10 years in prison, and sentencing will be at a later date. He remains in custody. As a result of the April raid, Wayne Joness brother, Joseph D. "Yusuf Abdulahad" Jones of Zion, Ill., was charged with providing material support to a terrorist organization after he allegedly gave cell phones that he thought would be used to detonate bombs in Syria. The phones were given to an undercover police operative who claimed he was traveling to the Middle East to join the Islamic State, also known as ISIS. His case is pending trial in U.S. District Court for Northern Illinois in Chicago. CEDAR FALLS Taylor and Danielle Morris received some forever wishes for their forever home at a special observance Tuesday morning. Taylor Morris, the former Navy bomb disposal expert who lost portions of all four limbs in a May 2012 bomb blast in Afghanistan, and his wife, Danielle, were feted by the Gary Sinise Foundation, which raised money to build an iPad-operated smart home to accommodate Taylors disabilities. Actor Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band staged a benefit concert for the couple in August 2013 at Gateway Park. Construction began earlier this year. Completion is anticipated early next year. The Sinise Foundation marked the halfway point of the homes construction with a Walls of Honor ceremony. People wrote well wishes to Taylor and Danielle on studs of the home, along the Cedar River east of American Martyrs Retreat House off North Union Road. Sinise was not present, but issued a message that was transcribed on a stud. Anyone could come in and write their well wishes, their name, any messages to us, so that theyll always be with the house, Danielle said. Theyll sheet rock over them in a couple of weeks and those messages will stay forever. Its a good event to highlight the local contractors, as well as (the Sinise Foundations) nationwide network, what they have contributed to the project, Taylor said. The project has special significance for Stuart Brecunier of Denver, president of Advanced Refinishers of Dunkerton, a subcontractor working on the house for general contractor Wayne Magee Construction of Cedar Falls. His son, Justin, an Iraq War veteran, is an explosive ordnance disposal expert like Taylor. Another son, Keith, is just entering the program. His son was one of a group of EOD experts who recently volunteered to work on the Morrises home. Its quite the brotherhood Brecunier said. Ive got my oldest and my youngest doing the same thing Taylor is doing. They do all the things most sane people dont do. They jump out of perfectly good airplanes and deep-sea dive at depths that would mess up most people. Im just darn proud of them. Theres got to be people in those positions, the people like Taylor and my son. We need those kind of people in there, so they (terrorists) arent over here. I dont care if I make a dime, doing the work, Brecunier said. Theres more than money, you know? Im just glad they can have such a nice place to settle in. Contractors are working hard to finish the project. I dont think anyones putting more pressure on them than themselves because theyre eager to get us in here, said Danielle, a real estate agent. Its a really special day, Taylor said. Its great to see the halfway point. Scott Schaeperkoetter of the Sinise Foundation said, We invite the public out donors, friends, family to come out and write words of encouragement and gratitude on the studs. Those words will remain there for as long as the house stands. The Sinise foundation teamed up with the Steven Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, named for a New York City firefighter killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack on the World Trade Center, to raise funds for the Morris home, as well as other post-9/11 multiple-amputee veterans. Well come out tomorrow night and read through everyones messages, Danielle said. WATERLOO Members of Becker-Chapman American Legion Post 138 are still looking for ways to fund repairs to their leaking roof. But a renewed request to replace the buildings clay tile roof with metal led to confusion Monday during what had been scheduled as an appeal hearing before the Waterloo City Council. Its been more than two years since the Main Street Design Review Board rejected Post 138s request to install a metal roof. The service club appealed the issue to the City Council in August 2015 but later dropped the matter. American Legion drops metal roof plan, renovation on track WATERLOO | A battle over a downtown American Legion post's roof has reached a peaceful conclusion. Councilman Tom Lind said members of the club asked him last week to put their appeal back on the agenda, which he did. What this allows them to do is to get a metal roof on that building for sure, Lind said. If they decide they dont want a metal roof and they want a gold roof, then they can go back to Main Street to present that plan. But not everyone at Post 138 was on the same page. Terry Brekke, a member of the clubs board of trustees, said he was unable to find anyone who could tell him why the appeal was on the agenda. Right now were appealing something which I dont know what it is, Brekke said. I feel that we can make a decision on what the roof is without outside help. City Clerk Kelley Felchle said she received an email Sunday indicating Post 138 was considering an asphalt roof, a plan never presented to the Main Street Design Review Board. The roof design, if its changed would have to be voted on by Main Street, she said. If its denied by Main Street, at that point in time the council could take action to overturn on appeal. Council members then voted 5-1 to table the request so Post 138 can review the situation and, if necessary, go back to Main Street. Lind voted against the move and Bruce Jacobs abstained. Waterloo Legion post holds anniversary party Sept. 16 WATERLOO Becker-Chapman American Legion Post 138 is going down for double to raise publi Steve Grimm, another member of Post 138s board of trustees, said the organizations bigger issue is financial. We are significantly short of money, and thats part of where were looking to come to you and get assistance, Grimm said. The roof was in much worse condition than we originally thought when we purchased the building. The city bought the American Legions former building at 619 Franklin St. for $300,000 and included $100,000 in relocation expenses as part of the nearby renovation of KWWL-TVs building. The club then purchased and renovated the former bar at 728 Commercial St. Post leaders indicated they still owe contractors more than $40,000 for work already completed on the new building. University Ave. signal damaged CEDAR FALLS -- Due to construction, a traffic signal was damaged at the intersection of Cedar Heights Drive and University Avenue. The intersection will operate as an all-way stop until the traffic signal can be replaced. The contractor is working to get it operational by late today. Hawkeye open house Saturday WATERLOO -- Hawkeye Community College will host an open house from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday about a grant supporting veterans, service members, their spouses and children looking to earn their commercial drivers license. The event will take place at the Regional Transportation Training Center, 6433 Hammond Ave. Hawkeye is one of seven colleges across the country to receive funding from a U.S. Department of Transportations Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration program to help train current and former members of the U.S. armed forces, their spouses, and children for jobs as commercial bus and truck drivers. The open house is an opportunity to meet instructors, tour the training facility, learn about program options and discuss financial assistance. For more information or to RSVP, go to hawkeyecollege.edu/open-house. HCC to screen Kosovo film WATERLOO -- Hawkeye Community College will host a free screening of With a Cup of Sugar: A Documentary Film by Luke T. Harwath at 4 p.m. Monday in Tama Hall. The documentary explores the relationship between the state of Iowa and Kosovo. A question-and-answer session will follow the screening. This event is presented by Hawkeye's Global Agriculture Learning Center and Iowa Sister States. Hawkeye is at 1501 E. Orange Road. Transgender discussion set CEDAR FALLS -- The experiences of parents of a transgender child will be discussed from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 25 in the Elm Room in Maucker Union on the University of Northern Iowa campus. Speakers are Dr. Kyle Christiason, family physician, and Jennifer Christiason, RN and nursing educator at Allen College. The event is free and open to the public and sponsored by UNI's American Democracy Project. Hurricane will become Beck's WATERLOO -- Hurricane Grill & Wings at 2027 Crossroads Blvd. has closed and is being converted to another Becks Taproom Grill location. The venue will feature a self-serve beer wall housing 16 craft beers and the same menu as other Beck's locations, including the University Avenue location. All Hurricane gift cards and reward points are good at all Barmuda locations, including at the new Becks when it opens. The new Becks is slated to open in mid- November and is now hiring for all positions. People can apply in person at Becks on University Avenue or online at www.beckstaproom.com/employment. Lets straighten something out: The Harvey Weinstein story is not a Hollywood problem. So, please, lets stop wagging our fingers at this group or that group every time another powerful man is caught sexually abusing women. Lets stop pretending weve never turned a blind eye at the signs of sexual harassment around us. And lets quit with the collective outrage asking, How could this happen? But lets also consider, possibly, we are getting better at dealing with this nonsense. And it may be thanks to the millennial generation. The alleged sexual misconduct of men such as Weinstein, Bill Cosby, Bill OReilly, Bill Clinton, Donald Trump and countless more has nothing to do with the tribes to which they belong. Their despicable behavior has everything to do with their own sense of power over women and a lifetime of experience that taught them they could get away with it. Shortly after The New York Times published its blockbuster story Oct. 5 accusing Weinstein, one of the most powerful men in Hollywood, of sexually harassing and abusing a number of young female actors, Weinstein issued a statement, in part offering that he was merely a product of his time the 60s and 70s, when all the rules about behavior and workplaces were different. That line is no excuse for what, in some cases, may have been criminal behavior, but Weinstein also wasnt wrong. Consider how differently we educate our children now about personal safety than we did a generation or two ago. Its never appropriate for anyone to touch you there, we teach our 3-year-olds. Always tell an adult if someone makes you uncomfortable. Kids today are taught to speak out and report bad behavior. It wasnt always that way, and most of us who were born before, say, 1980 developed other, quieter ways of dealing with dicey situations. In the mid-1970s, when I was about 11 years old, I caught the school bus a few blocks from my house. I loved my freedom to walk alone each morning we were all free-range kids then. One morning, a car pulled up to my bus stop, and a man with shaggy blond hair called for me to come over and go for a ride with him. I froze. I shook my head no, but the man persisted. After a moment of panic, I had an idea. I pulled my sweater open to reveal to him the silver safety-patrol badge pinned to my white safety-patrol belt strapped around my waist and across my chest. I wore it proudly, as Id earned the coveted job of helping the younger students at my school get on and off the bus safely. But in that moment, it was my superpower. I remember the rush of adrenaline as I told the man in the car I was on duty and he needed to leave me alone! Confused by my precociousness (or possibly having second thoughts about abducting such an odd child), he sped off and I never saw him again. I felt thrilled Id fended off an obvious Bad Guy, but I felt weird about it too and so I didnt tell anyone. Not a soul. Why would I? Nothing bad had actually happened, but if my parents found out theyd probably never let me walk alone to the bus stop again. No way was I going to jeopardize that. Another time, also as a young child, a car pulled up as a few friends and I were playing on a neighbors front porch. A man got out and started masturbating in front of us. We screamed in horror and he jumped back in his car and drove off. But, again, we never told any adults about it Im sure we felt too embarrassed to describe what wed seen. And anyway, wed taken care of it ourselves. In todays world, both of those incidents mightve made the local news. Our children are taught to report problems immediately and are far more comfortable using anatomical terms to describe what an adult might have done to them or in front of them. The women of my generation carried our childhood coping strategies into adulthood. When someone be it a Harvey Weinstein or a Joe Nobody made us uncomfortable, we handled it ourselves and then tried to forget about it. We used humor our own safety-patrol badges to shrug off unwanted advances. We dubbed certain colleagues creepy but harmless and tried to avoid them. We shared some of our stories among ourselves, but we rarely reported them because the career risks seemed too great. A few of us fell prey to the more egregious office predators and then we felt guilt and shame for being so gullible, or vulnerable. It felt confusing. But we soldiered on, smarter for it. And along the way those predators learned they could get away with it. A few of them became CEOs or movie producers. TV personalities, presidents of the United States. Most are people youve never heard of, though, and some of them are our own colleagues. And still, if its not too bad, we let it slide. Its not just a Hollywood problem, see? Sexual harassment is an everywhere people live and work problem. Small-town offices, hospitals, factory floors, law firms, newsrooms. Why do we act so shocked when some big name gets caught? Its all around us, festering at every level, and its time to call it out. Women (and men) I know who are in their 20s wince at the stories we tell of the sexual harassment weve brushed off over the years. They say theyd never stand for it, and although thats easier said than done, I believe them. These are the 3-year-olds who were taught to raise hell if anyone touched them, and now theyre filling the workforce. The silver lining of a generation that became obsessed with trigger warnings and microaggressions is that these millennials also have a no-tolerance attitude toward sexual harassment, which is refreshing and welcome. So lets take a cue from the next generation of leaders. Instead of shouting about the sins of Hollywood (or Washington), lets start talking loudly and urgently about the sexual harassment problem all around us. The following editorial appeared in The Baltimore Sun on Friday, Oct. 13: Its frankly disgusting the way the press is able to write whatever they want to write. And people should look into it. President Donald Trump, Oct. 11, 2017 Eager as we always are to fulfill your wishes, Mr. President, we have taken some time to look into our ability to write whatever we want. It turns out there is a document called the Constitution that sets out the powers and limitations of the Congress, the judiciary, even and this may come as something of an unwelcome surprise, Mr. Trump the president. The First Amendment, ratified shortly after the Constitution itself, reads, 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. How the heck did that get in there, you may ask? It turns out that even with these pesky limitations on federal power, some people at the time feared the Constitution would give the national government too much authority. So these anti-federalists insisted on specific protections for the rights of individuals against possibly tyrannical government actions like cruel and unusual punishment, seizure of property and forced self-incrimination. (Theres another one in there about the right to keep and bear arms were pretty sure youre familiar with, Mr. President.) But surely the author of that amendment didnt intend it to protect the press from saying mean things about the president, did he? Um, actually, yeah. It turns out thats exactly what James Madison thought the First Amendment means, as evidenced by his opposition to the Sedition Act that was passed during the John Adams administration to insulate the president and his allies from criticism. It set out criminal penalties for those who published any false, scandalous, and malicious writing or writings against the government of the United States, or either house of the Congress of the United States, or the President of the United States, with an intent to defame the said government, or either house of the said Congress, or the President, or to bring them, or either of them, into contempt or disrepute; or to excite against them, or either, or any of them, the hatred of the good people of the United States. And to be clear, the Adamsites had a pretty broad definition of false to include anything they didnt like; they thought everything was fake news too. Madison organized an effort in the Virginia legislature to condemn the Sedition Act as unconstitutional, saying it ought to produce universal alarm; because it is leveled against that right of freely examining public characters and measures, and of free communication among the people thereon, which has ever been justly deemed the only effectual guardian of every other right. Later, he wrote that had the Sedition Act been in force forbidding every publication that might bring the constituted agents into contempt or disrepute, or that might excite the hatred of the people against the authors of unjust or pernicious measures might not the United States have been languishing at this day, under the infirmities of a sickly confederation? Might they not possibly be miserable colonies, groaning under a foreign yoke? Our ability as the press to write whatever we want to write, even and especially when it is critical of those in power, is not a runaway byproduct of our freedoms. It is the source and guarantor of them. If you find that disgusting, Mr. President, then it is the very underpinning of what made America not only great but even possible in the first place that you find disgusting. One other note: If there is virtually no legal restraint on what we as Americans can say or write, there is a practical one. If we continually say things that are untrue, we will not be believed. If we do nothing but hurl invective, we will not be liked. And if we repeatedly offend our audience, we will be abandoned. Perhaps thats something you might consider next time you pick up the phone to tweet. (Oh, and also, John Adams was a one-termer. Sad! WAUKON Authorities are looking for a man missing from Kewanee, Ill., whose car was found near New Albin last week. In a release issued Thursday, the Allamakee County Sheriffs office said it is seeking the publics help regarding the whereabouts of Juan Ortega-Gandarilla. He was reported missing from Kewanee Oct. 3 and his car was found Oct. 4 near Fish Farm Mounds Wildlife Area, south of New Albin. Subsequent aerial drone, ground and K-9 searches proved unsuccessful. Ortega-Gandarilla was reportedly suffering from depression and may be endangered, sheriffs officials said in a release. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Allamakee County Sheriffs Office at (563) 568-4521 or local law enforcement. Man sentenced on gun charges WATERLOO A man authorities say fired a gun twice at a garage in January was sentenced to federal prison for possessing that gun. Dayton Jay Myers, 21, of Waterloo, was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids to 43 months in prison, with three years of supervised release after his prison term is up. Myers pleaded guilty June 1 to possessing a firearm while being a drug user. Authorities say Myers admitted at sentencing to driving to the home of a person he said was threatening him after a failed drug deal on the night of Jan. 3. Myers also admitted to driving up and down the street, then firing a handgun twice at a detached garage, striking the garage and a parked vehicle. Officials say the handgun was stolen and Myers was under the influence of alcohol and marijuana at the time. Myers is being held in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Office until he can be transported to a federal prison. Fire damages grain dryer STEAMBOAT ROCK Several fire departments battled a grain dryer fire in rural Steamboat Rock on Friday. The fire was reported about 6:35 a.m. at the Rollin Primus farm, 12236 220th Street, Steamboat Rock. Wellsburg firefighters were the first to respond. Fire crews from Steamboat Rock, Holland and Eldora were also called for assistance. Wellsburg firefighters were on scene for about five hours. 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has launched an Indiegogo campaign for the Ark, billed as the first 3D printer for architects. Earliest backers can secure the basic version of the FDM 3D printer for 2,095 ($2,465). Its been two years in the making, but Platonics Ark 3D printer is now up and running, and ready for Indiegogo backers to snap up. The printer, which is the subject of a 50,000 ($58,850) campaign, is designed to make 3D printing easy, efficient, and fast for architects. Just to clarify things at the get-go, this is a 3D printer made for the creation of scale models, not real buildings. But making models is an incredibly important process for architects, helping them bring their ideas to life, either to spur on further creative development or to impress a prospective client. A model in three dimensions says more than a thousand renderings and drawings, Platonics explains. However, traditional modeling often takes a lot of effort and time, and is mostly done only once or twice during a project. With 3D printing you can use scale models at every stage of your design process, efficiently. Helsinki-based Platonics thinks its new Ark 3D printer is better equipped than other machines on the market for making these scale models. Why? Well, for starters, the project has received input from a wide range of architectural voices, with Platonics conducting hundreds of talks with architects all over the world and a piloting period with five of the leading Finnish architecture offices. These discussions and trials led the Finnish startup to tinker its 3D printer design for the benefit of those in the business of designing buildings. For example, the 3D printer automates a lot of the technical stuff. Since most architects wont have heaps of 3D printing experience, the Ark automatically converts CAD files into 3D printable STL files, fixing internal design errors in the process. It also self-calibrates, self-configures, and automatically cleans itself, meaning architects have more time to think about their important ideas. Auto filament detection, a web-based app, and plugnplay hardware also contribute to this ease of use. When you think about it, these are all great features for novice 3D printing users in general, but the printer is being described as architecture-centric because its software and hardware essentially removes the conversion stage between CAD and STL, allowing direct compatibility with applications like Archicad, Revit, Rhino, and Vectorworks. CAD applications like these are familiar to most architects regardless of their 3D printing experience. But because many architectural CAD designs remain on-screen as digital files or simply get printed out on paper, the ability to quickly turn these familiar formats into tangible, physical, 3D models will be seen as a big draw for many in the industry. In fact, it's the appeal of these quickly printable 3D models that Platonics is using to really sell its new 3D printer. 2D drawings and 3D renderings transform an idea into a project, but scale models turn a project into a reality in the mind of the beholder, Platonics says. Architectural models quickly communicate design concepts and allow people from different backgrounds to easily comprehend a project. These models can even be printed in a range of materialsnot actual bricks and mortar, of course, but enough different eco-friendly filaments to produce a realistic range of textures on architectural models. At present, Platonics offers Matte, Transparent, Wood, Terracotta, Clay, Granite, Concrete, Copper, and Bronze materials. Of course, the Ark also looks like a pretty good 3D printer for non-architects too. After all, cleaning up your own model errors isnt especially fun, and an all-in-one package that offers to do the dirty work for you is always appealing. The printer also offers features like automatic bed leveling, though no mention is made of a heated print bed. Minimum layer resolution is 60 microns, print head speed is 100 mm/s, and nozzle temp is 170-250C. The printer supports 0.3 and 0.5 mm nozzle diameters. With 25 days left of the Platonics Indiegogo campaign, things are looking pretty good for the Finnish company, with the project having raised about half of its 50,000 goal. Backers looking to add to that total have a few options. The cheapest is the basic super early bird offer, which includes the printer and slicing software for 2,095. For 2,575, the package will also include CAD plugins for Archicad, Revit, Rhino, Vectorworks, and Sketchup. And for 2,995, backers will get all that plus a years worth of premium support from Platonics. At the moment, Platonics is only shipping its 3D printer within the European Union, where it is due to arrive in May 2018. Posted in 3D Printer Maybe you also like: Stefan wrote at 2/15/2019 3:11:27 AM:Relax MaxHendrik wrote at 10/18/2017 7:56:23 AM:I am an architect. We already have two 3D printers in the office. The innovation here seems to be software, not hardware. Make your software available to end users. If it works as advertised, we'll buy it.I know 3d Printing wrote at 10/17/2017 7:46:09 PM:Wow.. take a 500 dollar incapable printer and Label it for Architects and make it 2500$. That's just ridiculous. to say that an Architect is not smart enough to operate an open source software with a decently priced 3d printer is an insult to that targeted customer. Oct 17, 2017 | By Tess Todays 3D printing news roundup has a bit of everything, with medical 3D printing developments being complemented by an educational 3D scanning initiative, the launch of GKN Groups new Additive business, and even a new NASA 3D printing challenge for students. Creaform offers 50 3D scanning software licenses to educational institutions Its been a big week for 3D printing in education, with lots of new offers for schools and students. Creaform is the latest company to join the trend, as it is now offering 50 free bundle licences for its VXmodel and VXinspect 3D measurement software to the education sector. The free license bundles for Creaforms scan-to-CAD VXmodel software and its VXinspect dimensional software will be included when educational institutions purchase any of Creaforms 3D scanners or portable CMMs. In addition to the 50 free bundle licenses, Creaforms educational packages also include a one-year warranty for parts and labor, five years of software updates and technical support, two system maintenance appointments, and a manual to learn reverse engineering and quality control and inspection processes. Creaform has always been firmly committed to helping educational institutions teach and master metrology solutions to better prepare students for research projects and the job market, said Stephane Auclair, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management at Creaform. This new Educational Package will enable professors and researchers to take their curriculum to a whole new level. Creaform adds that its technology can be useful in the classroom setting to help teach various 3D measuring methods, and for exploring product design and other engineering applications. GKN launches new 3D printing brand GKN Additive Global engineering company GKN has announced the launch of its new GKN Additive brand. The new division will gather all of GKNs 3D printing activities together under one umbrella. The benefits of AM are significant, both for our customers and the world around us in terms of greener, more efficient production, commented Jos Sclater, Head of Strategy at GKN. There is also a tangible feeling that manufacturing is suddenly a very exciting place to be for the brightest and best engineering talent. That is great for the future of the industry and I am delighted that GKN Additive will be at the forefront of this revolution. GKN is no stranger to additive manufacturing, as the company has been working with 3D printing for years, with a speciality in powder-based metal 3D printing. Through GKN Additive, the company will continue its additive work in the aerospace and automotive sectors with the help of its four global centers of excellence. By bringing our AM expertise together in GKN Additive, we are not only able to continue supporting existing customers in our core aerospace and automotive markets, but also to explore entirely new AM markets too, added Sclater. It is an exciting step for GKN and a statement of our AM intent. GE Additive signs MoU with GKN to collaborate on additive manufacturing More news from GKN: GE Additive, Concept Laser, and Arcam AB have signed an MoU with GKN to collaborate on additive manufacturing. The agreement will see GKN become a GE Additive Production partner and a non-exclusive preferred supplier of metal powders to GE Additive and the other affiliated companies. Other provisions in the agreement include GE and its affiliates becoming non-exclusive preferred suppliers of AM machines to GKN; GKN collaborating with GE Additive to develop powder-based 3D printed parts for new markets; and GE Additives AddWorks team assisting GKN on the acceleration and industrialization of 3D printing technologies. GE Additive and GKN both understand the transformative power that additive manufacturing will have in the aerospace and automotive industries, commented Vice President and General Manager of GE Additive, Mohammad Ehteshami. Additive machines from Concept Laser and Arcam will bring tremendous value to this GKN relationship and we look forward to collaborating more closely in the future. Jos Sclater, GKNs head of strategy, added that together the companies will seek to accelerate future developments in 3D printing in order to meet the growing demand for the technology across a wide range of industries. Just as GKN has founded GKN Additive, GE began GE Additive a year ago with the aim of centralizing its additive manufacturing efforts and honing them for its diverse client base. GE made headlines for its acquisition of German metal 3D printing company Concept Laser and Swedish AM company Arcam. Canadian researchers receive funding for 3D printed skin graft research The Biomaterials and Nanomedicine Laboratory at Canadas University of Manitoba has received funding from the the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) to develop drug-loaded nanoparticles that target tumor cells. Malcolm Xing, an Emerging Leader in Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine at the University of Manitoba, is also attempting to make 3D printed nanocomposites for skin grafts that can be used to treat foot ulcers in diabetics. The 3D printing research is one of four research projects at the university to have received a total of CA$1.2 million ($957K) in funding. This investment is part of a wider initiative from CFI to invest over CA$554 million ($442M) in 117 new infrastructure projects across the countrys university network. I thank the Government of Canada and the Canada Foundation for Innovation for this funding to support my research program, Xing commented. Our lab aims to develop new STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Materials/Medicine/Mathematics) for stem cells and organs. This will lead to a better life for all. Earlier this year, Xing and other Manitoba researchers developed 3D printable self-healing hydrogels designed to repair themselves in response to light, temperature, or other stimuli. NASA seeks 3D printed multi-use tools as part of Two for the Crew Challenge NASA and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Foundation have invited students to design 3D printed multi-use tools that combine the functions of two objects being used by crew aboard the International Space Station. Aimed at K-12 students, the challenge asks contestants to invent multi-use tools and customized equipment that can help astronauts with maintenance, medical, trash management, and the challenge of securing and storing items in microgravity. As part of the free-to-enter challenge, students are encouraged to learn about concepts like mass and volume, while also honing their engineering and 3D design skills. Two for the Crew is the sixth space innovation challenge developed by Future Engineers and the ASME Foundation with technical assistance from NASA. It will be receiving entries until December 19, with a winner set to be announced on March 14, 2018. The International Space Stations Additive Manufacturing Facility 3D printer celebrated its first anniversary back in April. 3D printed medical implant specialist Stryker gets $3M Utah tax break Fortune 500 medical technologies company Stryker, which has developed several titanium 3D printed medical implants, has won a $3.4 million tax rebate incentive from Utah to expand its neurotechnology training and manufacturing center in Salt Lake City. This will allow the company to invest $100M in the facility over the next decade, putting those funds toward new research and development facilities and the development of stroke-care technology product manufacturing. The company will also take on 540 more workers. Stryker has cemented itself as a leader in global innovation and medical device manufacturing, commented Theresa Foxley, president and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah. With [its] continued expansion in Utah, Stryker adds to an already recognized and established life sciences and medical device manufacturing hub. The deal stipulates that Stryker must pay its workers 100 per cent of the average wage in Salt Lake County, which will add up to $192 million in wages and a consequent $17 million in state tax revenue. Stryker has been operating in the Salt Lake City area since 2011, added Mark Paul, president of Strykers neurovascular division. During that time, weve benefited from the talented workforce and first-rate education, research, and healthcare facilities in the area. We are excited to continue our expansion of Strykers operations and partner with state and local government in the future. Earlier this year, Stryker teamed up with GE Additive to improve 3D printing in the healthcare sector. Posted in 3D Printer Company Maybe you also like: Oct 17, 2017 | By Julia The gas turbine industry just got a serious boost, thanks to a Pittsburgh researcher whos using 3D printing solutions to revitalize the aging technology. Dr. Minking Chyu is a Distinguished Professor in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science at the University of Pittsburghs Swanson School of Engineering, whose research into 3D printed turbines recently impressed the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to the tune of $600,000. Yesterday the DOE announced the massive funding package to Dr. Chyus groundbreaking study, titled Integrated Transpiration and Lattice Cooling Systems Developed by Additive Manufacturing with Oxide-Dispersion-Strengthened Alloy. Coupled with the $177,192 cost-share from the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Chyu has received a total of $777,192 towards his work in 3D printed turbine solutions. While gas turbines have been in widespread use since the early 1900s, the modern technology is far from perfect. As a type of internal combustion engine that mixes air, fuel, and combustion to rapidly spin fan-shaped blades (or airfoils) to create mechanical energy, gas turbines are ideal for power generation, yet exhibit a serious downfall. While generating enormous amounts of energy, gas turbines also generate enormous amounts of heat and are at risk of being damaged by these high temperatures, Dr. Chyu explains. But 3D printing could be the key to cooling these industrial combustion engines, according to Chyu. Together with his research team, the Leighton and Mary Orr Chair Professor has begun exploring how 3D printed lattice and transpiration cooling systems, in addition to specially developed Oxide Dispersion-Strengthened (ODS) Alloys, can protect turbine blades from overheating. "The alloys we're developing increase the melting point of the turbine's components, and therefore improve their heat resistance," Dr Chyu says. "Additive manufacturing enables us to create complex lattice structures that allow cool air to enter the turbines and reduce temperature even further." When equipped with these alloys and 3D printed structures, turbines are much less likely to suffer heat damage, but also can be operated at a higher temperature for improved efficiency. Its a win-win for the U.S. Department of Energy, which has now invested hundreds of thousands on the technology. Eventually, the DOE hopes, the gas turbine industry will see serious improvements overall thanks to Chyus work. Chyus study is one of nine projects recently funded by the DOE office of Fossil Energy, which is awarding a total of $5.4 million to turbine research as part of the University Turbine Systems Research program. Managed by the National Energy Technology Laboratory, the program focuses on developing advanced turbine innovations for increasing energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and improving performance. Posted in 3D Printing Application Maybe you also like: Sandhya Ramesh in The Wire: Astrophysicists today have released no less than seven papers on one of the biggest events not only reported in the media but also in the known universe. For the first time ever, we have definitive evidence of two neutron stars colliding and releasing a deadly gamma-ray burst. The light from this burst arrived almost simultaneously with gravitational waves unleashed by the collision. This discovery is further evidence that gravitational waves travel at the speed of light a prediction that Albert Einstein made over a 100 years ago. Moreover, follow-up observations in the days following the first offered proof that over half the elements heavier than iron are created in such cataclysmic events in the universe. Earlier this year, the physicist trio of Rainer Weiss, Kip Thorne, and Barry Barish won the Nobel Prize for physics for their contributions to building the gravitational wave detector called LIGO and its first direct detection of gravitational waves in 2015. According to Einsteins theory of general relativity, when two massive bodies accelerate or collide with each other, they release gravitational energy. Such energy deforms the spacetime fabric as it travels outwards from the source at the speed of light. Imagine ripples radiating outwards when a rock hits the surface of a still pond. LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) is made of two detectors located in the US. It observed one set of waves in September of 2015, when two black holes orbited each other faster and faster, coming closer until they collided. The event occurred 1.4 billion lightyears away and let loose 178.7 billion trillion trillion trillion joules of gravitational energy. More here. In the context of todays political discourse on the national and state levels, local businesses and corporations are trying to determine how to best engage in active conversations about diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Leading diversity experts in the Tampa Bay Area are front and center of adopting company policies around the value of diversity.That's why Conscious Capitalism Florida hosted a recent Workplace Inclusion panel discussion designed for business leaders interested in boosting their bottom lines.A lot of the current events that are going on is on everybody's minds. For a lot of business leaders, they don't have the resources, says Vinny Tafuro, moderator and chapter president of Conscious Capitalism Florida, an organization that seeks out and connects the role models of Floridas conscious business community. We want to have these conversations so that current business leaders can have access to tools and learn about how to approach this with their own teams.During the event, four panelists discussed and provided strategic solutions on how to actively make the local business community more inclusive.Panelists included Cal Jackson, Director of Diversity & Inclusion Global Programs at Tech Data; Nadine Smith, Executive Director of Equality Florida; Maureen Greene James, Human Capital Leader at PwC; and, Ashley Brundage, Inclusion Consultant for PNC Financial Services Group.Each of the panelists emphasized how important it is for companies -- big and small -- to urge political leaders to take actions that will strengthen and support diversity in the community and in the workforce.Were at a time in our society when we need businesses to be brave and stand up, says Smith of Equality Florida, a civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Floridas lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community.Businesses have to step up because there's a dangerously corrosive thing happening in our politics right now, says Smith. Oftentimes, whether it's apartheid or a boycott, the business community has stepped up where elected leadership has either lagged or failed utterly. I think this is a moment in American history where it requires the business community to help create cohesiveness in our society right now.Smith credits business leadership at the local level as the catalyst for change that helped protect 60 percent of Floridians from being discriminated against due to sexual orientation or gender identity.With the recent presidential election, we often see employees who are divided by their political views and moral values, says Smith. You have some employees who believe in one perspective, but then there are employees who completely disagree, which can lead to a division between employees.Why do you even care if half your staff comes to work boycotting the NFL, but for completely opposite reasons?... Because your team can't function, says Smith. Not because businesses are suddenly The Oprah Winfrey Show, but because your bottom line depends on a society where we can communicate.The other panelists emphasized that companies should have a vested interest in diversity to ensure the smooth and successful functioning of their teams.It is becoming increasingly important for companies to create comfortable environments for people to have conversations about what is happening in todays society, says Greene James.We're increasingly becoming a nation of older white people and young brown people, says Smith. Businesses better prepare for that new reality. Not kicking and screaming, but intentionally.The Conscious Capitalism panelists spoke extensively about how businesses need to create workplace environments that spark welcoming, yet thought-provoking conversations.PwC strives to create opportunities for its employees to engage in conversations about diversity and inclusion through events like PwC Talks, says Greene James. One of the talks, Being Color Brave, challenged PwC employees to openly speak with their coworkers about race and diversity to help broaden their perspective on the topic.Being Color Brave encouraged people to speak, which in turn encouraged people to listen and then, it encouraged people to have a deeper understanding, Greene James.Tech Data uses storytelling as a tool to help people connect with one another, while helping to avoid the clashing of values, says Jackson.Empathy often comes when you build a container where everyone feels safe to share, hear and actively listen, says Jackson.At PNC Financial Services Group, speakers share their personal stories, perspectives and life lessons to help PNC employees break down any unconscious biases and learn how to better connect with coworkers in the workplace, says Brundage.It is important to be more culturally aware of other communities, says Brundage. You're not always going to agree with the other person across the aisle. You have to be able to know that at some point, there needs to be civility. You need to be able to not agree with someone, but still get your work done.The Conscious Capitalism Florida panelists explained how they often see business executives take a hands-off approach to diversity by taking little to no action.Companies sometimes hire a person with a diverse background solely to help build the companys public image of being an inclusive business, says Smith. Then, when this person tries to implement real changes to diversify the company, they get spit out.To help prevent these situations, it is vital for business executives to be invested in strengthening company efforts to create an inclusive business environment, says Jackson. Business executives ultimately must become more engaged and committed to building diversity in the workplace, the panelists agreed.Executive engagement is immersion. We are saying to the executives, 'You want to do this, right? Then, we need your engagement, says Jackson. We have to build an environment so we can have courageous conversations.Conscious Capitalism Florida strives to spark that conversation with its solutions-driven events, says Vinny Tafuro We don't get to a solution unless we can actually start having productive dialogue, says Tafuro. Our panel discussions and events really are for those companies and business leaders who want to have a productive dialogue. We want to create an opportunity for them to do so.To suggest additional story ideas, email 83 Degrees To subscribe to our free weekly e-magazine, follow this link State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) SHIPs are free health-benefits counseling services for Medicare beneficiaries and their families, friends and caregivers. Each state has its own SHIP website; find yours at shiptacenter.org. Services include free counseling at workshops or over the phone. Social Security Administration Check out the Social Security Administrations website for information on Medicare eligibility, enrollment, higher-income premiums and extra help. Or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 for help with Medicare eligibility and enrollment, Part B premiums, Part D Extra Help or Medicare Savings Programs. AARP and Medicare insurance UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, brokers or producers. Extension of Closing Date of Rights Issue Sydney, Oct 17, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Chapmans Limited ( ASX:CHP ) (Company) advises that it will be extending the closing date for acceptance of applications for its non-renounceable one (1) for two (2) rights issue of fully paid ordinary shares in the Company (Offer). Capitalised terms are as defined in the Offer Document dated 3 October 2017. The closing date of the Offer is now 5:00pm (AEST) on 27 October 2017 The revised timetable for the remaining dates is set out below: Event: Closing Date Date: 27 October 2017 Event: Securities quoted on a deferred settlement basis Date: 30 October 2017 Event: ASX notified of Shortfall Date: 1 November 2017 Event: Issue of New Shares, despatch date of holding statements Date: 3 November 2017 Event: Trading commences for New Shares on a normal settlement basis Date: 6 November 2017 *The above dates are indicative only and may change without notice. The Directors reserve the right to amend this indicative timetable at any time (subject to the Corporations Act and ASX Listing Rules), to extend the Closing Date or to cancel the Offer without prior notice in its absolute discretion. The commencement of quotation of new securities is subject to confirmation from the ASX. Eligible Shareholders will need to ensure their Application Monies for their Entitlement and any Shortfall Shares are received by Security Transfer Australia Pty Ltd by no later than 5:00pm (AEST) on 27 October 2017. The Offer Document for the Offer has been mailed to Eligible Shareholders and is available on the ASX website and the Company's website. Eligible Shareholders should read the Offer Document and will need to complete the personalised Entitlement and Acceptance Form which accompanies the Offer Document to apply for New Shares and Shortfall Shares. The Company also wishes to advise that two directors of the Company, Anthony Dunlop and Peter Dykes, have indicated to the Company that they intend to take up their full entitlements under the Offer. About Chapmans Limited Chapmans Limited (ASX:CHP) is an ASX-listed diversified investment company engaged in special situation investments across a diverse range of industries, with a focus and expertise in the mobile and advanced industrial technology sectors. The Company seeks to be an active strategic investor in high growth areas of the market and to identify and work with emerging high growth companies. Chapmans' investment philosophy and approach are based on a unique mix of high conviction and special situation features, characterised by advisory and equity investments structured around specific events and assets for both public and large private corporates. The Company made its first strategic investment into blockchain in 2017 and established the Blockchain Industry Advisory Board to identify and assess compelling blockchain investment opportunities. Chapmans' investment in blockchain technology aligns with its growth plans and commitment to investing in early stage technologies with reach into key international markets. To learn more please visit: https://www.chapmansltd.com Kidston Solar Phase One 50MW Update Sydney, Oct 18, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Genex Power Limited ( ASX:GNX ) (Genex or Company) is pleased to provide shareholders with this latest update regarding the construction program for the Company's Phase One 50MW Kidston Solar Project (KSP1 or Project). Genex is pleased to report that the construction of KSP1 continues to remain on-time and on-budget, for anticipated first generation in Q4 2017. Key activities since the last update (refer ASX announcement 05 September 2017) include: - Continued installation of solar modules across the KSP1 site; - Continued installation of solar pilings; - Continued installation of trackers; - Delivery and installation of main transformer; - Delivery and installation of inverter modules; and - Delivery and installation of control room. Commenting on progress of the Company's 50MW Solar Project, Managing Director of Genex, Michael Addison said: "Genex's project team continues to deliver construction milestones, enabling the Project to remain on-target for first cash flow in Q4 2017. Key milestones during the reporting period include installation of the transformer, inverter modules, control room and an acceleration of panel installation and cabling." The Federal Government, through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency has provided $8.9 million of funding to support the construction of Genex's Phase One 50MW Kidston Solar Project. About ARENA ARENA was established by the Australian Government to make renewable energy technologies more affordable and increase the supply of renewable energy in Australia. Through the provision of funding coupled with deep commercial and technical expertise, ARENA provides the support needed to accelerate the development of promising new solutions towards commercialisation. ARENA invests in renewable energy projects across the innovation chain and is committed to sharing knowledge and lessons learned from its portfolio of projects and information about renewable energy. ARENA always looks for at least matched funding from the projects it supports and to date has committed $1.1 billion in funding to more than 270 projects. For more information, visit http://www.arena.gov.au To view figures, please visit: http://abnnewswire.net/lnk/C8E800Y8 About Genex Power Ltd Genex Power Limited (ASX:GNX) is focused on developing a portfolio of renewable energy generation and storage projects across Australia. The Company's flagship Kidston Clean Energy Hub, located in north Queensland, will integrate large-scale solar generation with pumped storage hydro. The Kidston Clean Energy Hub is comprised of the operating 50MW stage 1 Solar Project (KS1) and the 250MW Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project (K2-Hydro) with potential for further multi-stage wind and solar projects. The 50MW Jemalong Solar Project (JSP) is located in NSW and provides geographical diversification to the Genex Power Limited portfolio. JSP was energised in early December 2020 and commissioning is now underway. Genex is further developing its energy storage portfolio via the early stage development of a 50MW/75MWh standalone battery energy storage system at Bouldercombe in Queensland. With over 400MW of renewable energy and storage projects in development, Genex is well placed as Australia's leading renewable energy and storage company. Wins Major Wagering Operator Brisbane, Oct 18, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - OtherLevels Holdings Limited ( ASX:OLV ) ("OtherLevels") has announced that it has signed a leading wagering operator with licenced operations in the United Kingdom and Australia. The initial contract, valued at A$240,000 is with the U.K. entity. OtherLevels will deploy it's Intelligent Messaging solution to substantially increase the operator's sportsbook engagement with its audience. Initially this will focus on web usage, and the use of three message types including web push, interstitials, and inbox messaging. OtherLevels digital marketing strategists will work with the operator both to drive increased conversion activity, helping to turn unknown site visitors into known users, as well as increased engagement from existing users. End to end attribution will enable OtherLevels and the operator to measure the revenue uplift from the increased conversion and engagement. Brendan O'Kane, the OtherLevels Managing Director, commented "This is a win/win for both OtherLevels and the operator. With the Intelligent Messaging solution, OtherLevels will be able to add a huge level of sophistication to the operator's conversion and engagement activities, which will be directly measurable in terms of increased user retention, engagement and per user revenue uplift." O'Kane added "This also demonstrates how OtherLevels is able to bring to a Chief Marketing Officer the Intelligent Messaging solution for both above the line acquisition and conversion, as well as traditional below the line retention and engagement activities. This is a very exciting expansion opportunity for OtherLevels and a major value creating event for our clients, as increasing visitor conversion and optimising acquisition costs, is an immediate and significant positive business outcome for any client." About Otherlevels Holdings Ltd OtherLevels Holdings Ltd (ASX:OLV) (FRA:7OL) is a leading second-generation digital marketing platform with offices in Europe, the US and Australia. The OtherLevels platform enables clients to acquire sooner, engage smarter and retain longer across desktop, mobile web and apps audiences. The OtherLevels platform offers both Intelligent Messaging for Conversion, and Intelligent Messaging for Marketing Clouds and CRM, hence delivering both acquisition and engagement capabilities for digital marketers. OtherLevels leading clients include Camelot (UK), Tatts/Tabcorp, Coles, Flight Centre, IHG, LadbrokesCoral, Betfred and Doubledown. For more information, please visit https://otherlevels.com. For media enquiries please contact media@otherlevels.com. Violence broke out in Togos second city, Sokode, after the arrest of an imam close to the countrys main opposition, fueling tensions after weeks of anti-government protests. Electricity was cut off at about 7:00 p.m. (2100 GMT on Monday) after evening prayers, said Ouro Akpo Tchagnaou, from the main opposition National Alliance for Change (ANC). Five police vehicles arrived to arrest Alpha Alassane, a very well-known imam in the city, and population felt targeted and took to the streets. Clashes lasted throughout the night until calm was restored but the authorities have been warned of renewed protests if Alassane is not freed. Alassane has long been a dissenting voice in Togo but his arrest comes at a time of heightened political tension in Togo in recent months. He has allied himself with the PNP of Tikpi Atchadam, who has spearheaded protests against President Faure Gnassingbe that have mobilized hundreds of thousands across the country. The PNP and 13 other opposition parties are calling for political change in Togo to end the 50-year rule of the Gnassingbe family. They want a limit on the number of presidential mandates to two in line with practice elsewhere in west Africa and the introduction of a two-round voting system. The opposition parties have vowed to defy a government ban on midweek protests by marching in the capital Lome on Wednesday and Thursday. The death toll in an ongoing suicide and gun attack on a police-training centre in a southeast Afghan city has risen to 32 with more than 200 wounded, a hospital official said Tuesday. The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood, said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province. A separate attack in a neighbouring province on Tuesday left 15 security forces dead and 12 wounded, as militants step up their offensives following a ratcheting up in US airstrikes in a war-weary country marking 16 years of conflict this month. The victims of the ongoing Gardez attack, which was claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, include women, students and police, officials told AFP. At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault, the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces is underway inside the centre, which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. Fighting has been going on for more than four hours. A local official said two car bombs went off near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing, Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistans militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The attack came hours after a US drone strike in Pakistans Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. Local officials told AFP that drones were still flying above Kurram after the attack, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nations links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car, the Prime Minister said. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Maltas main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicles wreckage spiraling over a wall and into a field, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. Caruana Galizias death resulted from a barbaric attack that also amounted to an assault on freedom of expression, Muscat said. He said the journalist was one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level as he denounced her slaying. One of the topics she examined was the Maltese content in the Panama Papers leaked in 2016. She wrote that Muscats wife, the countrys energy minister and the governments chief-of-staff had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. Muscat and his wife, Michelle, denied they had companies in Panama. Caruana Galizia filed a police report two weeks ago saying she was receiving threats, law enforcement officials told Malta news outlets on Monday. The slain journalist had written a twice-weekly column for The Malta Independent since 1996 and wrote a blog, Running Commentary. A half hour before she was killed, she posted to her website an item about a libel claim the prime ministers chief of staff had brought against a former opposition over comments the latter made about corruption. Caruana Galizia herself had been sued for libel over blog entries. Opposition leader Adrian Delia sued her over stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London. Economy Minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote that he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. Monday evenings Parliament session was scrapped, except for briefings about the bombing given by Muscat and Delia, who called the reporters slaying a political murder. Muscat said he has asked the US government and the FBI for help investigating the car bombing. Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband and three sons. One son, Matthew, was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal. The leak exposed the identities of rich and powerful people around the world who allegedly had offshore holdings in Panama. Caruana Galizias family has asked the Courts of Malta to replace the magistrate assigned to conduct the inquiry into the journalists death. The family said the magistrate, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, in her personal capacity, had launched judicial procedures against (Caruana Galizia) regarding comments she had written. Caruana Galizia for many years was a harsh critic of Maltas Labour party and government. More recently, she had expanded her criticism to include the opposition Nationalist Party. Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the petition of Congress leader Jagdish Tytler and arms dealer Abhishek Verma, challenging the framing of charges against them in a forgery case. The case dates back to 2009, when Tytler and Verma allegedly forged a letterhead in the name of then minister of state for home Ajay Maken, and addressed it to the Prime Minister requesting to ease visa norms for a Chinese telecom firm. Acting upon the complaint of Maken, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a chargesheet against Tytler and Verma in 2013, under section 469 of the IPC which relates to forgery for purpose of harming reputation. Although Verma is the key accused, CBI, in its charge sheet stated that the Congress leader actively connived with Verma in the forgery. On December 9, 2015, a trial court framed charges under various sections of IPC against the duo, including 120-B (criminal conspiracy) read with 420 (cheating) and 471 (using as genuine a forged document) and under section 8 of the Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act dealing with taking gratification by corrupt or illegal means to influence public servant. Jagdish Tytler, who was out on bail, and Abhishek Verma who was in judicial custody under charges of various other cases, had then moved the High Court against the trial courts verdict. The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday stayed the withdrawal of Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPF) from Darjeeling hills, the scene of unrest over the statehood demand, till October 27, in a relief to the West Bengal government. Hearing a plea by the state against the Centres decision to withdraw CAPF from Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, a division bench of Justices Harish Tandon and Debangshu Basak ordered an interim stay. It asked the state government to move a regular bench of the high court when it reopens on October 23 after the Diwali holidays. Appearing for the state, Advocate General Kishore Dutta prayed for status quo on the deployment of the forces. Altogether 15 companies of CAPF are deployed in the area. He said the matter would be mentioned before the Chief Justice on the first PIL day after the court reopens. The PILs are generally heard on a Friday. He referred to the killing of a police officer a few days ago when Bimal Gurung-led Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters fired at the security forces hunting for him, to buttress the state governments claim about the need for continued deployment of CAPF. The high court had while hearing a PIL on July 14 directed the Centre to deploy four more companies of CAPF in addition to the 11 already present in the hills then. The advocate general submitted that as the deployment was made following an order of the high court, which had also been endorsed by the Supreme Court the same day on another petition before it, the Centre cannot withdraw the forces unilaterally without the permission of the court. The vacation bench on Tuesday directed the Centre to file an affidavit in response to the state governments plea by October 23. It asked the state government to file its reply to the Centres affidavit by October 26. The West Bengal government had written to the Centre seeking extended deployment of CAPF till December 25, but was told that out of the 15 companies present, 10 would be withdrawn on October 15 and the rest by October 20. Bipul Kundalia, counsel for the central government, claimed that the situation in Darjeeling hills had improved compared to what it was in July when the order on deployment of paramilitary contingents had been passed by the high court. The monument to love Taj Mahal became the centre of controversy after BJP leader Sangeet Som said that it was built by a traitor and is a blot on Indian culture. Since then the topic caught fire on social network, many BJP supporters are of view that the historic monument should be demolished. There are also allegations that the BJP is conspiring to demolish Taj Mahal, the way its workers brought down Babri mosque in Ayodhya. Recently Uttar Pradesh government has renamed the Mughalsarai railway station to Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay railway station. Since BJP came to power many name changes had happened. After Babri incidence, now they are finding some solid communal agenda to make sure their win in 2019. It was earlier reported that the Taj Mahal, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, was not mentioned in a new booklet released by the Yogi Adityanath-led state government. By giving the logic that the creator of Taj Mahal (Shah Jahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out Hindus. If these people are part of our history, then it is very sad and BJP leaders will change this history. Sangeet Som may have courted controversy but UP CM Adityanath believes that the Taj Mahal is very important for them, especially from the tourism perspective it is their priority to provide facilities and safety to tourists there. It does not matter who built it and for what reason; it was constructed by blood and sweat of Indian labourers. The Taj Mahal is built on a parcel of land to the south of the walled city of Agra. Shah Jahan presented Maharaja Jai Singh with a large palace in the centre of Agra in exchange for the land. An area of roughly 1.2 hectares (3 acres) was excavated, filled with dirt to reduce seepage, and levelled at 50 metres (160 ft) above riverbank. In the tomb area, wells were dug and filled with stone and rubble to form the footings of the tomb. Instead of lashed bamboo, workmen constructed a colossal brick scaffold that mirrored the tomb. The scaffold was so enormous that foremen estimated it would take years to dismantle. The Taj Mahal was constructed using materials from all over India and Asia. It is believed over 1,000 elephants were used to transport building materials. The translucent white marble was brought from Makrana, Rajasthan, and the jasper from Punjab, jade and crystal from China. The turquoise was from Tibet and the Lapis lazuli from Afghanistan, while the sapphire came from Sri Lanka and the carnelian from Arabia. In all, 28 types of precious and semi-precious stones were inlaid into the white marble. According to the legend, Shah Jahan decreed that anyone could keep the bricks taken from the scaffold, and thus peasants overnight dismantled it. A 15-kilometre (9.3 mi) tamped-earth ramp was built to transport marble and materials to the construction site and teams of 20 or 30 oxen pulled the blocks on specially constructed wagons. An elaborate post-and-beam pulley system was used to raise the blocks into desired position. Water was drawn from the river by a series of purs, an animal-powered rope and bucket mechanism, into a large storage tank and raised to a large distribution tank. It was passed into three subsidiary tanks, from which it was piped to the complex. The plinth and tomb took roughly 12 years to complete. The remaining parts of the complex took an additional 10 years and were completed in order of minarets, mosque and jawab, and gateway. Since the complex was built in stages, discrepancies exist in completion dates due to differing opinions on completion. The total cost has been estimated to be about 32 million Indian rupees, which is around 52.8 billion Indian rupees ($827 million US) based on 2015 values. In 1942, the government erected a scaffolding to disguise the building in anticipation of air attacks by the Japanese Air Force. During the India-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, scaffolding were again erected to mislead bomber pilots. More recent threats have come from environmental pollution on the banks of the Yamuna River including acid rain due to the Mathura Oil Refinery, which was opposed by Supreme Court of India directives. The pollution has been turning the Taj Mahal yellow. To help control the pollution, the Indian government has set up the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), a 10,400-square-kilometre (4,000 sq mi) area around the monument where strict emissions standards are in place. In 2010, cracks appeared in parts of the tomb, and the minarets, which surround the monument, were showing signs of tilting, as the wooden foundation of the tomb may be rotting due to lack of water. Although it has been pointed out by politicians, that the minarets are designed to tilt slightly outwards, to prevent them crashing on top of the tomb in the event of an earthquake. In 2011, it was reported that some predictions indicated that the tomb could collapse within 5 years. But no such thing happened, but looking at political motives we can say not only the tomb but also even the Taj is at the verge of collapsing. Hope BJP works on its election promises of development that going in to destructive agenda. BJP leaders should think hundred times before giving any such statements, as Modi is slogging day and night to build the party and these small time leaders are damaging its image by passing unwanted statements which is bad for the country, community, country head and also the party and its future. (Any suggestions, comments or dispute with regards to this article send us on feedback@afternoonvoice.com) Aiken, SC (29801) Today Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers this afternoon. High 59F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Showers early, then cloudy overnight. Low 44F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. Is the Dream Of Kurdish Independence Now Over? (VOA) -- The independence dream of Iraq's Kurds may be over. It was felled by a lightening advance by Iraqi counter-terror units, trained and equipped by the United States, and Shi'ite militias, trained and equipped by Iran, who seized the disputed city Kirkuk and its surrounding oilfields after isolated skirmishes and a withdrawal order by Peshmerga commanders. The Peshmerga commanders either had no stomach for a fight or had already entered into a secret deal with the central government in Baghdad to retreat. Amid accusations of betrayal, Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, the Peshmerga commander of 70 Force, a key unit charged with the defense of Kirkuk's southern approaches, said he had ordered his men to withdraw to protect their lives in the face of overwhelming forces. "I bear all the responsibilities -- in success and failure," Mustafa told the Kurdish news outlet Rudaw. He dismissed claims there was a prior deal by some Peshmerga commanders to allow the Iraqi army to enter the city "without a fight." In Washington, as the advance into Kirkuk unfolded, a U.S. defense spokesman told reporters Iraqi forces the United States is "monitoring movements of military vehicles and personnel in the vicinity of Kirkuk." He added: "These movements of military vehicles so far have been coordinated movements, not attacks." Col. Rob Manning added: "We are aware of reports of a limited exchange of fire...and we believe this to have been an isolated incident," he said of media reports of fighting between Iraqi and Kurdish fighters. In Irbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, rival Kurdish factions blamed each other for the loss of Kirkuk and surrounding oilfields, holding out the prospect of Kurd-on-Kurd retaliation. In Kirkuk, there were some incidents of local Kurds angry with the withdrawal firing at retreating Peshmerga. Who's Fighting? The Kurdish Peshmerga and forces loyal to Baghdad, the latter consisting of the Iraqi army, counter-terror forces and Shi'ite militias known as the Popular Mobilization Forces. Outside Iraq most people think of the Peshmerga as a single force but it is in fact largely split and controlled separately by rival Kurdish parties, the Democratic Party of Kurdistan, the party of Kurdistan's president, Masoud Barzani, and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, which owes allegiance to the Talabani family, who are supportive of the idea of Iraq remaining one country. The withdrawal of Peshmerga forces in the face of the Iraqi advance Monday is being blamed by some of Barzani's supporters on the Patriotic Union, which they suspect cut a secret deal with Baghdad. Why is Kirkuk Important? The city is 98 kilometers south of Irbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. Command of the city dictates control of the surrounding oilfields that the Kurdistan Regional Government was banking on to make an independent Kurdistan economically viable. Without the oil, Kurdistan is even less feasible as a breakaway state than it was with the oil -- some critics of independence thought even before Monday's lightning strike by the Iraqi army Kurdistan would struggle to make ends meet as an independent country. Is Kirkuk a Kurdish city? The Kurds say it is. They have long disputed Arab claims, arguing that the late Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein, changed the demographic make-up of Kirkuk by moving Arab families into the city and surrounding areas. And the demographic profile of the city has undergone changes since the U.S. invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein and the war against the Islamic State terror group. But the city and the province of Kirkuk has had a highly diverse population for centuries and has been a home for Kurds, Turkmen, Arabs and Assyrians -- all of whom claim it as theirs. How Come Kirkuk was controlled by the Kurds? Iraqi forces fled the city on 12 June 2014 in the face of military advances by the Islamic State terror group across northern Iraq. Kurdish Peshmerga forces took over to protect the city form the jihadists. What are the interests of regional powers in the dispute over Kirkuk and what is the attitude of Washington and Moscow? None of the regional powers -- Turkey, Iran and Syria -- wanted the Iraqi Kurds to secede from Iraq. All three feared that an independent Kurdistan would encourage Kurdish separatists in their own countries. Since the independence vote last month, Tehran, Ankara and Tehran have been coordinating their responses to a degree not seen before and relations have noticeably warmed between the Turks and the Iranians with Ankara pushing to hold joint military exercises with Iran's forces. Hours after the Iraqi army and Shi'ite militias launched their operation to seize Kirkuk, Ankara announced it was closing Turkish airspace to planes flying into and out of the KRG and would hand over the Ibrahim Halil border crossing on the KRG side of the border with Turkey, which it has controlled for months, back to the Iraqi central government. The U.S. frowned on September's KRG independence vote and along with European powers urged the Kurdish president, Masoud Barzani, not to hold it. The Western powers want Iraq to remain one state, fearing that if it doesn't there will be forever war pitting Kurds, Sunnis and Shi'ites against each other. Moscow has been more nuanced and has sought in recent years to develop cooperation with both the central government in Baghdad and the KRG. Russia has long pursued friendly relations with the Kurds stretching back to 1946 when it backed a Kurdish Autonomous Republic -- mainly because it undermined Western plans for Iraq. But Russian leader Vladimir Putin disapproves of breakaway states in principle -- fearing they will could encourage secessionist movements in Russia. In the weeks leading up to September's independence vote, Russian oil giant Rosneft announced a billion-dollar investment in natural gas pipelines in Kurdistan. But Moscow remained ambiguous about its position when it came to the vote. What impact will the seizing of Kirkuk have on fight against Islamic State? That is the question that most exercises Washington. If the Kurds now decide to fight back against the Iraqi army and supporting Shi'ite militias, it could have a major impact as it would force Baghdad to redeploy forces targeting the jihadists and distract the central government from finishing off IS. But if the Kurds don't -- and the Iraqis halt where they are and don't push on from the disputed territories and try to enter Irbil -- then the impact may be minimal. If not and open war breaks out, then IS could find room to maneuver to re-group. What Now? Having seized Kirkuk, Baghdad has all but destroyed Kurds' independence ambition. The Iraqis may now turn magnanimous and search for a way to reconcile Irbil to the change in fortunes. In Kurdistan there could be some ugly recriminations between Kurdish factions. How they may play is hard to predict. Certainly President Barzani and his family come out of this weakened. Low-cost airlines have rejected proposals for a local rule at Schiphol airport that would have given priority to freighter operators as the hub faces a shortage of slots. The airport is nearing its slot limit for the year of 500,000 and as a result is having to limit the number of aircraft calls, with freighters looking most likely to lose out because of the ad-hoc nature of their services. Slot restrictions for freighter aircraft are likely to continue next year, with estimates suggesting 10.5% of freighter calls could be turned away in 2018 compared with 2017. To help mitigate the situation trade union FNV and business associations evofenedex, TLN and Air Cargo Netherlands (ACN) had submitted a local rule proposal that would have given freighter operators priority for any slots returned by airlines. Dutch ministers said they would be willing to implement the local rule as long as it met European regulations and other airlines using the airport agreed to it. However, the union and trade associations said that low-cost airlines had rejected the proposal. The groups said the rejection was death strike for the freight sector and the position of Schiphol as an international mainport. They had argued that it was in the national interest to protect freighter flights because of the amount of jobs the sector brings, whilst also boosting trade in the country. "By rejecting such a local rule, the low-cost/leisure companies prove that in times of airport scarcity self-interest outweighs the national importance of Schiphols mainport status, the trade union and business associations. "You can not leave such decisions to the [private aviation] sector. Politics and the Secretary of State must take the direction and decision-making. To combat the structural loss of freight flights at Schiphol in the coming years, we now have to set the local rule for freight flights. That is of national importance and justifies direct intervention by the Secretary of State. " They say that while freight flights only account for 3.5% of Schiphols total, the sector is responsible for 20% of employment at the airport. Estimates suggest that the airport will lose between 30-35 freighter flights each week as a result of the slot shortage. Already airlines are moving to alternative gateways Singapore Airlines Cargo is switching four freighter flights each week to Brussels, while AirBridgeCargo (ABC) has added Liege as a destination. Starting with its winter schedule, ABC will gradually increase its number of calls at Liege to 12 flights per week. Meanwhile, Dutch press reports quote the FNV union saying that as many as 100 jobs could be lost from ground handler Menzies as a result of the slot restrictions. Read more cargo airport news Share this story . . . 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!) October 17, 2017 CAIRO Arab efforts to foil the African-Israel Summit that had been scheduled for Oct. 23-27 in Togo's capital, Lome, have met with some success and are multiplying. The summit's theme is Israel is coming back to Africa, and Africa is coming back to Israel, but currently no one is going anywhere. The effort against the event had been underway for months when Togo President Faure Gnassingbe told Israel in September the summit would be postponed so organizers could make better preparations. Opponents of the meeting, including Palestinians, claimed their protests led to the indefinite delay, though many observers, including Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman Emmanuel Nahshon, attribute the change to growing unrest in Togo, where there have been fierce protests against Gnassingbes rule. The latter seems ironic, as the summit's website promotes Togo as "a beacon of political and economic stability." The Arab Parliament has been supporting efforts to derail the summit and announced back in July that it would ask political leaders not to attend. According to an Oct. 5 statement from the Arab Parliament, its leader Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Salami sent a special envoy to Tanzania, Ethiopia and Cameroon asking those parliaments to support a boycott. The statement emphasized Israel is the only country in the world occupying the lands of a whole people and persecuting them through blockade, forced displacement and arrest. The Arab Parliament also said it sent official boycott requests via letters to other African countries' parliaments, but it hasn't revealed the results yet. Salami told Al-Monitor by phone that the Arab Parliament continues to remind its members of their support of Palestinians, whose rights are non-negotiable. He added, The summit increases the risk of Israeli infiltration in the African continent. A Sept. 11 statement from the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said the likelihood of getting the summit canceled completely is growing. More than 50 African countries were invited, and 20-30 presidents were expected to come. Palestinian Ambassador to South Africa Hashem Dajani told Al-Monitor by phone from Johannesburg that sessions of the Pan African Parliament (PAP) in South Africa, taking place Oct. 9-20, are providing a good opportunity to discuss more extensively with African countries delegations the need to boycott the summit. Dajani gave an official speech before the PAP on behalf of the Palestinian territories. Dajani said, Many Arab and African countries, including Egypt, are working alongside the Palestinians to garner support for foiling the summit. South Africa and Morocco also voiced their objection to the summit, especially since Gnassingbe did not consult the African Union before announcing the decision to hold the event. In addition, the African and Foreign Affairs committees of the Egyptian Parliament have called for urgent action to garner support for canceling the summit. Tarek el-Khouly, the secretary of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Egypt's Parliament, told Al-Monitor, The Israeli infiltration in Africa threatens Egypts national security. He added, "The peace agreement [of 1979] was not enough deterrence for the intermittent cold war between Cairo and Tel Aviv. He argued that Israel is targeting Egypt politically by trying to earn a spot in Africa and the Nile Basin region, a goal made clear by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus July 2016 visits to several upstream Nile countries. Netanyahus African tour included Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Ethiopia. A delegation of 80 officials representing more than 50 Israeli companies accompanied him. Khouly added, Due to the pressure on Egypt in the Nile waters issue and the Egyptian-Ethiopian dispute regarding the [Grand Ethiopian] Renaissance Dam effects, Egypt has become vulnerable to its opponents, like Israel, Qatar and Turkey, which are targeting it by expanding their influence in Africa. He added that Israels claims about having economic interests in Africa are unconvincing, with the dwindling impact of African economic partnerships that are being used for political ends. The declared agenda on the official page of the African-Israel Summit included a roundtable ministerial dialogue about the water challenges in Africa and Israels potential solutions. Another article of discussion was agriculture, including a general session about the economics of water and agriculture in African countries. PAP member Hatem Bashat told Al-Monitor by phone from Johannesburg that Israel is facing tough resistance to the summit from within the PAP. The proof is that Israel has not been granted membership as an observer state in the African Union, despite its constant demands. October 16, 2017 CAIRO Have you ever thought about how music can be used in psychotherapy or to regulate blood pressure? For Egyptians, the answer is probably no. On Oct. 8, the Ministry of Health announced that it would hold a survey on non-infectious chronic diseases such as high blood pressure in a number of provinces so that needs for medicine and treatment can be reassessed. A source from the Ministry of Health told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity that music therapy is unlikely to be part of this study. Despite our belief that the percentage of people with high blood pressure in Egypt is one of the highest [in the Middle East] due to heavy psychological, physical and social pressures, I do not think music therapy sessions could be part of the government's plans of treatment, the source said. However, belief in the healing powers of music has begun to spread among some artists and doctors in Egypt. The Egyptian Feminist Union, together with a number of jazz musicians from Panama, organized a workshop to train more than 100 Egyptian women from Cairo, Alexandria and Minya to treat themselves and others who suffer from severe anxiety, phobias and high blood pressure, through relaxation exercises and music. The workshop was held on the sidelines of a visit by the Panamanian Danilo Perez Foundation to Cairo to participate in the Cairo International Jazz Festival from Sept. 28 to Oct. 1. Marwa Hassan, a musician from Cairo who participated in the workshop, told Al-Monitor, The workshop was not limited to musical exercises, but included an introduction to the history of the use of music in psychological treatments. It all started with Arabs in Andalusia who turned to music to calm patients with epilepsy, phobias and depression. They, of course, treated all of them as mental illnesses. Hassan added, The theories of music therapy have developed in Europe. Various scientific investigations have proven musics usefulness in treating stress and other issues. Music therapy is used to relieve stress and tension, which are some of the main causes of high blood pressure. It is also used to prevent anxiety and alleviate panic, including for autistic people." She said, however, that she did not think this technique will find a warm reception in Egypt. "There is no comprehensive scientific research on the topic in Egypt. Also, even many traditional and standard methods of treatment are unavailable in major Egyptian hospitals, so how can we expect to find an unconventional method like music therapy? Shaima Mahmoud, another workshop participant from Minya, seemed more optimistic. Using music therapy has indeed occurred to many Egyptian psychiatrists and doctors specializing in treating autism, she told Al-Monitor. The scenes we see in movies where psychiatrists tell patients to lie on the couch and listen to music are not fiction. Many therapists, including Egyptian ones, use this technique. Youm7 reported in July that a private Egyptian hospital has been treating patients with music to ease their anxiety and lift their morale. The article withheld the name of the hospital so as not to be considered an advertisement. In a June press statement, Sherif Abul-Naja, the director of a charity hospital for pediatric cancer called 57357, revealed that the hospital had established a new department to help children overcome the psychological effects of cancer through music. An Egyptian psychiatrist who specializes in music therapy, Dr. Khaled Salam, told Al-Monitor, When we are exposed to music, it is not simply our auditory system which is stimulated but also our brain, which subconsciously interacts with the music and stimulates the release of enzymes that can either relax the patient more make him tenser. Salam added, Despite legitimate research in favor of music therapy, many doctors in Egypt do not believe in musics healing abilities. He added that most doctors in Egypt were not familiar with foreign research on music therapy. Another psychiatrist, Dr. Mustafa al-Nahhas, told Al-Monitor, Music, singing and art in general is a form of psychotherapy that we encounter daily without really knowing it. [Art] helps reduce anxiety, bring joy and get rid of dark thoughts, even if for a short period of time. This is what we try to accomplish in psychotherapy. Nahhas added, If we want to use music as a standard therapy, we need to conduct research as well as change how Egyptians perceive psychotherapy in general. He said, Many Egyptians hate to visit psychiatrists because they fear their community would judge them and assume that they are insane. I hope the media will take it upon itself to correct this view and differentiate between patients who receive therapy because they have psychological issues to work through and those who suffer from serious mental illnesses. This is particularly important because the majority of Egypt's high blood pressure cases, whose numbers have skyrocketed, result from patients being under a lot of psychological and social pressure. Nahhas concluded, We cannot develop new methods of psychotherapy in Egypt such as music therapy if the patients do not believe in the need for psychological treatment in the first place. Despite the lack of scientific research, the decline in medical services and the lack of faith of many Egyptians in psychotherapy, music therapy has made some inroads in Egyptian medicine, and its adherents hope it will quickly make its way onto the list of adopted treatment methods. October 17, 2017 Hamas announced the appointment of Saleh al-Arouri as deputy head of its political bureau Oct. 9. During a recent meeting of Hamas Shura Council, which included representatives from the West Bank, Gaza and outside Palestine, the movement wished him success and expressed its pride in his jihadi past. The date and the place of the meeting, along with the identities of attendees, were not made public. Arouri's appointment is the last chapter in an internal reshuffling of Hamas this year. The process began in February, with the selection of Yahya al-Sinwar as the movement's leader in Gaza. In May, the organization selected Ismail Haniyeh to head the political bureau from Gaza. For the past 20 years, the movements organizational authority has been based abroad, but this year's elections are remarkable for the elevation of local leaders. Hassan Yusuf, a senior Hamas leader in the West Bank, told Al-Monitor, Arouri is a one-of-a-kind figure with a military background. He served several terms in Israeli jails, for 15 years. Hamas leaders testify to his sagacity, and consider that his involvement as deputy head of the movement will give the Palestinian internal scene more importance. Yusuf added, It is remarkable that Hamas elected Haniyeh, from Gaza, as its leader, and Arouri, from the West Bank, as its deputy head. This means that the election of Arouri is restoring the significance of the occupied territories, in particular the West Bank, where the real conflict with the Israeli occupation happens. Arouri, who hails from Ramallah, has a strong personal network on the West Bank. Arouri is a Hamas veteran who joined the movement in 1987, the year of its founding. He was detained intermittently between 1992 and 2007 for various activities against Israel, in particular for his role in establishing the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the movement, in the West Bank. Because of his activities, in 2010 Israel deported him from Palestine. That same year, Arouri was elected to be a member of Hamas political bureau. In September 2015, the US Treasury Department imposed sanctions against Arouri for providing financial support to Hamas, including transferring hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Qassam Brigades to buy weapons, and organizing attacks against Israel. From 2010 to 2017, he bounced between Syria, Turkey and Qatar, before finally winding up in Lebanon. Arouri participated in the negotiations of the prisoner exchange deal with Israel involving the soldier Gilad Shalit in 2011. More recently, he has led the Hamas delegation that conducted reconciliation talks with Fatah. Abdel-Sattar Qassem, a professor of political science at An-Najah National University in Nablus, told Al-Monitor, Arouris election sends many messages from Hamas to several sources. The first, for the Palestinian Authority [PA] and Israel, is that despite the ongoing reconciliation talks, Hamas will not give up its weapons. Hamas orientation toward Iran and Hezbollah has become clear. Arouri represents Hamas' military line. He is currently residing in Beiruts southern suburbs, Hezbollahs main stronghold, and enjoys the protection of the party. Thus Hamas has no other choice but to follow Iran [which supports Hezbollah]. Qassem further remarked, Following the election of Arouri and Sinwar, the upcoming days may witness a reconciliation with Syria. However, the impact of Arouris election on [Hamas] carrying out armed operations on the West Bank is dependent on the movements operational abilities. I believe the movement is currently unable to do this in light of the complex security situation in the West Bank. Israels Shabak (Shin Bet) had in April accused Arouri of supervising the training of Palestinian youths studying abroad, without specifying in which countries, to conduct military activities against Israel in the West Bank. Israel did not hide its displeasure about Arouris election, and the Israeli media rushed to discuss the implications for the movement's political and military actions with regard to Israel. In the lead-up to the 2014 war in Gaza, it was Arouri who asserted Hamas responsibility for the kidnapping and killing of three Israeli settlers in June in Hebron. The Israeli NRG website described Arouri as a smart personality, supporting close relations with Iran to strengthen Hamas military wing. Israels Channel 10 called Arouri's election a message that Hamas is not going moderate and that this could affect Israels long-term security situation. Israel Today reported that Arouris elevation confirms that Hamas wants to take control of the West Bank, one of its strategic goals, adding that Arouri is a smart and determined enemy who will continue to irritate Israel. Muhammad Hamadeh, an independent Palestinian expert on Israeli affairs, told Al-Monitor, Israel is concerned about Arouri's election, because it knows him very well. Israel is also aware of his charisma and his value to Hamas and does not see his election as a random event, but as a strong message against it. Israel may also see his appointment as deputy head of Hamas political bureau as a declaration of war. Israel could end up assassinating him in the event of military developments in the West Bank. On Oct. 1, the Israeli Center for the Judiciary called on INTERPOL to arrest Arouri for planning attacks against Israelis. Israel had on Sept. 28 protested to Russia about hosting Arouri as part of a Hamas delegation that visited the country Sept. 19. The visit aimed at bolstering ties between the movement and Russia, with the delegation discussing the latest developments in Palestine, the reconciliation with Fatah and Russias role in the Palestinian cause. Mahmoud Merdawe, a Hamas member and former prisoner who has close personal relations with Arouri, said, Arouri's election to this high-ranking position in Hamas is due to the importance of the West Bank to the movement and its status in its future strategy, for he is considered the most capable person for assessing the West Banks needs due to his personal network. He is also the founder of Hamas military wing there, and he is in direct contact with the leaders of the West Bank and its cadres, which may prompt Israel to put him under the security radar. I believe that if the opportunity arises, Israel wont hesitate to assassinate him, for he is a legitimate target to it. Arouris election represents a step in what could be described as the progressive replacement of the movements former political and military leadership. In the past, the head of Hamas political bureau, his deputies and department officers were mostly based abroad. This year's elections have resulted in powerful positions going to local leaders, in particular military personnel, which may result in a change in Hamas policy in the coming period. October 16, 2017 The popularity of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has spiked, at least on social media, following US President Donald Trump laying out a new strategy on Oct. 13 that increases the likelihood of not only the collapse of the nuclear deal between Iran and the six world powers, but also the likelihood of a military conflict and aggressive efforts to bring about regime change in Tehran. In the same strategy speech, Trump said he had authorized the Treasury to impose additional sanctions on the IRGC, describing it as "the Iranian Supreme Leaders corrupt personal terror force and militia." A day after Trump's speech from the White House, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted, Today, Iranians boys, girls, men, women are ALL IRGC; standing with those who defend us & the region against aggression and terror. On Oct. 11, President Hassan Rouhani also addressed the IRGC and the possibility of US sanctions against them. He remarked, If America wants to commit its next big mistake and take action against the IRGC, this is a mistake upon a mistake. Rouhani continued, The IRGC is not only a military organization, but the IRGC is in the hearts of the people and has defended the nation any time there has been a danger against national interests. He added that the IRGC is not only popular among the Iranian people, but also in Iraq, including Iraqi Kurdistan, Syria and Lebanon. In response to Trumps speech and Zarifs tweet, #Love to IRGC began trending on Persian-language Twitter. Love to IRGC is that feeling of security which is like seeing Haj Qasem [Soleimani] and his friends, read one tweet. With the Islamic State's seizure of territory in Iraq, Irans neighbor to the west, Soleimani, commander of the IRGCs Quds Force, has become one of the more popular figures in Iran, according to domestic and foreign polls, with his profile raised by his force's assistance in the battle against the extremist group. The tweet by Zarif and the comments by Rouhani have also received some pushback. In an article in Javan, the newspaper of the IRGC, Sadegh Parsa wrote that had Zarif tweeted [We] are all IRGC four years ago, many of the Reformists would have disavowed him. The article went on to say that since Trumps speech, however, Iranians are more united than ever. Parsa also noted that Trump is not the first US president to use threats and insults against Iran and that his policies and tone have been the norm since Jimmy Carter, who was president at the time of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Rouhanis administration has not always had a positive relationship with the IRGC and some social media users reminded the president of that fact. In a December 2014 speech, Rouhani, without mentioning the IRGC by name, criticized the aggregation of power by one institution. He said that with one institution having guns, money, newspapers, websites, there will be corruption. The IRGC, which began as a military power parallel to the army and answerable to the supreme leader, has over the decades become an economic force, entering various industries, including construction and telecommunications. Much of its financial and construction work has been through Khatam al-Anbia Construction Headquarters, which can be loosely compared to the United States Army Corps of Engineers. October 17, 2017 Iranian media and officials have expressed support for the Iraqi forces operation to recapture Kirkuk, but deny that Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) played any role in it. Announcing Tehrans support for the Iraqi governments operation against peshmerga forces in Kirkuk, Ali Akbar Velayati, a foreign policy adviser to Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stated Oct. 17, Iran plays no role in the Kirkuk operation, and the majority of the Kurdish people of Iraq are against the ambitious actions of [Iraqi Kurdistan Region President Massoud] Barzani. We saw that the area was ceded to the government in Baghdad, and Mr. Barzani should accept his mistake and admit [to this ceding]. Moreover, Irans former ambassador to Iraq, Hassan Kazemi Qomi, wrote in the government-run Iran daily Oct. 17, The reality is that Baghdad is determined to preserve its territorial integrity, and as long as Iraqi Kurdistan isnt willing to suspend the results of the referendum, Erbil-Baghdad talks wont take place and Iraq will be forced to continue its current approach. However, there are currently whispers about opposition to Barzanis decision, especially regarding the increase of [the number of] peshmerga forces in Kirkuk. Noting the importance of losing Kirkuk for Iraqi Kurdistan, Reformist Shargh daily wrote Oct. 17, One of the main points of dependency for an independent Iraqi Kurdistan was Kirkuk's oil-rich region because the Kurdistan region has no access to free waters and there is little potential for sustainable revenues for them." The daily added, The lack of willingness on both sides for widespread military conflict showed [that they both] prefer a peaceful resolution. Shargh then suggested, If Iran or [Quds Force commander] Gen. [Qasem] Soleimani play a mediating role in this process, it is considered to be a positive step, both for the future of the region and for Iran's responsibility toward Iraq and the Kurds. Meanwhile, ultra-conservative Kayhan newspaper referred to the disagreements and Barzani accusing the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) of betrayal and reaching a deal with the Iraqi government. The paper reported Oct. 17, Barzani is attempting to throw the ball in the field of the other party and avoid accepting the current situation. The reality is that the Kurds themselves in Kirkuk agreed to surrender all the oil and gas fields to the Iraqi forces. Kayhan added, The main reason [for giving the control of Kirkuk to Iraqi forces] was the mission that the Iraqi government had previously given to peshmerga Kurds for fighting Daesh [Islamic State], and had asked them to come to Kirkuk to prevent Daesh from advancing further. Furthermore, Hassan Danaie-Far, another former Iranian ambassador to Iraq, addressed the mentioned disparities among Kurdish parties, writing Oct. 17, To answer the question of whether the disagreements between the Kurdistan Democratic Party [KDP] and the [PUK] have worsened or even that of whether the [PUK] has become pessimistic about its rival party [the KDP] by carrying out an irrational and hasty decision, there are issues that cannot be understood [based] on speculations on social media networks. Rather, we should wait for the passage of time to see to what extent these speculations are close to reality. October 17, 2017 The hawkish essay by Yesh Atid Chair Yair Lapid published Oct. 11 in the respected American monthly The Atlantic, in response to an Oct. 9 article in the same publication by Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, was translated into Hebrew and the two versions posted on Lapid's Facebook page and Twitter. Lapid has good connections at the magazine, and this was not his first appearance in it as an author or an interview subject. This time, Lapid wrote, the magazines editors approached him to respond to Zarifs essay. Beyond the personal prestige afforded the party chairman in the international arena by this type of publication, Lapid understands its importance in terms of the Israeli public, which he is trying to convince of his ability to handle the responsibilities of diplomacy and security as prime minister. Lapid claims in his article that Zarifs article is full of lies, distortions, and half-truths meant to turn Iran into a regional nuclear power. The method is to make the West believe it isnt happening. Lapid further wrote, Sadly, the deal signed with Iran in the summer of 2015 only strengthened that conviction. Since the deal was signed, they have significantly expanded their ballistic missile program, started building a permanent military presence in Syria and are constantly testing the boundaries with [International Atomic Energy Agency] inspectors to continue to develop their nuclear program. Theyre doing all that in a far more comfortable environment than before. Lapid emphasizes later in the article that he does not agree with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on nearly anything, but his description of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani as a wolf in sheeps clothing is right on the money. Lapids stance and arguments are legitimate, of course, but it is hard to ignore that they are incredibly similar to the current prime ministers rhetoric. On Oct. 13, two days after Lapid's article appeared, US President Donald Trump delivered his belligerent speech against Iran, which was received by Israeli political leaders, including Lapid, to much acclaim. Trump's pronouncements, which seemed to be taken from Netanyahus playbook, sounded to the Israeli ear, with good reason, like a warm and friendly embrace. Even though Trump did not detail what measures would be taken against Iran, and did not announce the cancellation of the nuclear agreement between Iran and the six world powers, his declarations had an intoxicating effect on Israelis. For instance, Netanyahu recorded a video in advance, in English, and posted it to Facebook after the speech. In it, he called Trumps decision brave and said that he had created an opportunity to fix this bad deal, to weaken Irans aggression and to fight its support of terrorism. Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman, in an interview on Channel 2, also called the speech brave, while Zionist Camp Chair Avi Gabbay welcomed Trumps decision, remarking, I hope he doesnt make do only with speeches. Netanyahu, as the spearhead of the fight against the Iranian nuclear program and the nuclear deal, could not have hoped for a stronger tailwind from his political rivals Gabbay and Lapid, who see themselves as his successor. Most of the Israeli public does not understand the significance of the nuclear deal or the ramifications of its rejection on stopping Iran's nuclear program and its alternatives. Iran is the demon, and the Iranian nuclear program is seen as an immediate existential threat by Israeli citizens, to a great extent thanks to Netanyahus rhetoric. But are there no other shades to this story? How are Lapid and Gabbays diplomatic positions different from Netanyahus? If they fail to demonstrate independent thought, isn't the original thinker preferable to Israelis, especially since senior officials in both the US and Israeli security establishments do not support ending the nuclear deal? As in the past, the alternative position, which challenges Netanyahus worldview and rhetoric, was presented by figures outside the political establishment, led by former Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Although Barak was Netanyahus close partner in efforts to stop the Iranian nuclear program from 2009 to 2012 as defense minister in his government, since that time he has expressed different views. One can argue with him, or claim that he does not speak to the point, but at least he challenges Netanyahu and Trumps position, which is significant coming from someone considered an authority on national security. In an Oct. 11 interview with the New York Times, Barak warned, Decertifying the deal would cause Iran to get to a bomb much faster. Iran is far from being an existential threat to Israel, but it has the potential to be such a threat in the future. If the United States pulls out of the nuclear deal its strategy with North Korea could be damaged. Amos Yadlin, a general in the reserves and the Zionist Camps candidate for defense minister in the 2015 election, served as head of Military Intelligence and dealt firsthand with the Iranian threat from 2006 to 2010. He, too, has presented a different line of thinking. In a series of tweets, Yadlin focused on several facts that neither Netanyahu nor Lapid has acknowledged. He noted that it is important to listen to the security and diplomatic establishments, which are not convinced that pulling out of the deal is a preferred strategy. He also made clear, Fixing the deal is fantasy It is not an agreement between the US and Israel. It is between Iran and 6 powers. Leaving the deal is only the preferred strategy if the US has an alternative strategy to keep Iran from the bomb. Even if the US leaves the deal, the deal is not automatically annulled. The other powers may keep it. In conclusion Yadlin emphasized, In order to succeed, one must plan ahead. We should ask ourselves if it is in the Israeli and American interest that the Iranians, after they have been distanced from the bomb will make another break for nuclear weapons. In recent years, at strategically important junctures like this, time and again, the center-lefts flaccid leadership on security and diplomatic issues has stood out. Its leaders are not able to present an ideological alternative that demonstrates public courage on key issues, at the top of which are Iran and the conflict with the Palestinians. It seems that on all these issues, they prefer to wink to the center-right public, while toeing the line with Netanyahus agenda. October 17, 2017 PARIS Relations between Israel and UNESCO have long been strained, but UNESCOs 202nd executive board meeting provided a rare moment of satisfaction for Israeli diplomacy. On Oct. 8, just hours before the dayslong voting process for the agencys next director-general kicked off, the decision was made to delay voting on two resolutions related to Israel and Jerusalem. Similar resolutions generated harsh Israeli reactions last year, when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided to limit cooperation and financing for joint projects. Likewise, when UNESCO adopted a resolution on Hebrons Cave of the Patriarchs in July, Netanyahu called it "delusional." European diplomats insist that delaying the votes on the two sensitive resolutions reflects a change within UNESCO. The delay was approved unanimously. Sources at the agency estimated that the United States had managed to broker a joint Israeli-Palestinian agreement to postpone, thus avoiding a diplomatic commotion ahead of the nomination process for UNESCOs new director-general. Israels interest in postponing the votes was obvious. The Palestinians, for their part, understood that in the long run they could gain from the delay. Their No. 1 interest at that point was seeing one of the four Arab candidates land the position of UNESCO chief. Everything else could wait. Though Israels ambassador to UNESCO, Carmel Shama-Hacohen, hailed the delay as an Israeli achievement, it seems that Jerusalem sees no general changes in the worlds attitude to Israel. Instead of leveraging it to open a new chapter with UNESCO, Israel focused on the short term. A six-month delay would only postpone the inevitable, and the resolution proposals were bound to resurface under the leadership of a new director-general. Israel was convinced that the new UNESCO chief would be either one of the Arab candidates or the Chinese one. In fact, most bets were on two out of the four Arab candidates: either Qatari Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari or Egyptian Moushira Khattab. UNESCO has never had an Arab director-general, the Arab member states kept reminding the others. For Jerusalem, an Arab UNESCO chief would unequivocally mean an anti-Israel approach by the UN agency. The Wiesenthal Center had been campaigning against Kawari, accusing him of endorsing an anti-Semititic book. Truth be told, many in Israel were already convinced that UNESCO was an anti-Israel group. On Oct. 12, the day before the final vote for director-general, the US administration announced that the United States was pulling out of the agency over what it called "anti-Israel bias." Understandably, the unexpected announcement deflected Israeli attention from the ongoing vote process. The American decision surprised Jerusalem, especially against the backdrop of the delay in voting on the anti-Israel resolutions. An Israeli diplomatic source told Al-Monitor that Jerusalem was not really prepared. On the other hand, with the United States' pending withdrawal, Israel had little choice but to follow suit, and Netanyahu ordered the Foreign Ministry to prepare Israels exit "parallel to the American pullout." UNESCO officials who spoke with Al-Monitor expressed much disappointment over Netanyahus reaction, stating that outgoing Director-General Irina Bokova and many of the member states made special efforts to reduce tensions with Israel after last years resolutions. "Israel has nothing to gain and a lot to lose from leaving this forum," said a senior UNESCO official on condition of anonymity. But Israeli diplomats saw things differently. Of course there was the issue of President Donald Trumps decision, but then there was also the matter of UNESCOs next chief. If Qatar were to lead the agency, then Israel might as well leave. Did Israeli diplomacy indeed consider all angles? In fact, for several years now, Netanyahu has been fighting to secure Israels standing in different international forums. This approach, which has been manifested in his visits to Africa and efforts to get Israel back into the African Union as an observer, is designed to prove to the Israeli public (perhaps an impossible mission without movement toward a peace process) that the country is not isolated internationally because of the occupation. The outcome of UNESCOs leadership vote only emphasized this dichotomy in Israeli diplomacy. It turned out that Kawari lost when 30 countries out of 58 voted for Frances Audrey Azoulay, giving her a four-year term as director-general. The French candidate evidently benefited from the division in the Arab vote, split by anti-Qatar sentiments within the Arab world this past year, and probably also Trumps decision. Where does this outcome position Israel? Instead of congratulating UNESCO for its choice of a woman obviously dedicated to advancing culture, science and education, Israel is stepping back. Instead of rejoicing over the nomination of a woman attached to the people of Israel (even if not to its government), Israel is pulling away. Instead of taking the opportunity where UNESCO has appeared to be shifting toward a more conciliatory approach toward Israel, Jerusalem is staging for war. As this article was penned, Israel had not officially announced that it is exiting UNESCO, leaving the door open ever so slightly for a change in the American decision. The US pullout won't take effect until December 2018, offering Israel about a year to see if the Americans stick with the decision. Jerusalem would do well to take this time to reflect on its relations with the international community, especially while a UN agency is reaching out to it. October 17, 2017 First, the good news. Speaking to soldiers and reporters at an Oct. 10 event marking the recent Jewish holiday of Sukkot, Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman said, When the next campaign begins, and it doesnt matter where it begins, in the north or the south, it will immediately become a two-front campaign. There is no longer a single front, and that is our basic assumption. The northern front is Lebanon and Syria, and the southern front will open up from Gaza, he said. Now, the bad news, which Liberman spared his visitors and the people of Israel: The next war could well include a third front. He might have forgotten that the previous war, in 2014, during which Israel launched Operation Protective Edge, started on Israels eastern flank, in the West Bank, following the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli youths. The Cabinet's decision Oct. 17 to link the resumption of the political process to disarming Hamas is a prescription to confrontation with the Palestinians After 10 years of the cruel blockade of Gaza, the Israeli segregation policy differentiating the West Bank from Gaza has collapsed. Gaza remains part of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict equation, and its 2 million residents still comprise part of the demographic balance in the territories Israel controls. The reconciliation agreement signed Oct. 12 in Cairo by Hamas, which has ruled Gaza, and Fatah, which controls the Palestinian Authority (PA), tightens the official affinity between the West Bank and Gaza, strengthening solidarity between them. A flare-up on Israels southern border with Gaza should thus be expected to spark a clash between Palestinians and Israeli settlers in the West Bank and incite Palestinian terror attacks in Israel, and vice versa. Security cooperation between Israel and the PA, already hanging by a thread, is unlikely to survive the next barrage of Israeli aerial attacks in Gaza and photos of bleeding Palestinian children. Liberman peppered his apocalyptic prophecies of a two-front war with citations from Vegetius, the late Roman writer who 1,500 years ago advised, If you want peace, prepare for war. Liberman and his friends in the right-wing government are known the world over for their yearning for peace. On Sept. 27, they displayed this desire by attending the jubilee celebration for 50 years of Jewish settlement in Judea, Samaria, the Jordan Valley and the Golan, all the territories Israel has occupied and settled since the 1967 Arab-Israeli War. On the occasion, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged never again to uproot Jews from those lands. A week later, on Oct. 3, he promised to annex the settlement of Maale Adumim to Jerusalem, a city that, as everyone knows, Israel is determined never to share with the Palestinians who live there. Hamas is counting on this Israeli interpretation of peace. In the next election campaign in the West Bank and Gaza, no one will be able to blame Hamas for undermining negotiations on a permanent peace arrangement with Israel. The auspices granted by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to the Palestinian reconciliation deal, and the rare unspoken approval by a US president, Donald Trump, provides Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas a lot of leeway for such negotiations. Experience has given Hamas firm grounds for believing that Israel will ensure that the rope handed to Abbas turns into a noose with which the movement can strangle any diplomatic solution to the conflict. All Hamas' leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, has to do to win over the Palestinian public is absolutely nothing. Suffice it for him to watch from the sidelines as Israel continues to build West Bank settlements and to document the nationalistic declarations of the Israeli leadership. If, for some unexpected reason, progress is achieved in diplomatic negotiations, Netanyahus demand of the Palestinians to recognize Israel as the state of the Jewish people, and by so doing deny the history and rights of their own people, will remind them who is to blame for the occupation. As always, Netanyahu and his allies have barricaded themselves behind the three principles set forth by the Middle East Quartet the European Union, Russia, the United Nations and the United States for political cooperation: unconditional recognition of the state of Israel, adherence to previous diplomatic agreements and renunciation of terrorism. They are right, but should not Israel also adopt the principles embodied in these three conditions? What better way to manifest the desire for peace that Liberman touts than for the Israeli government to recognize the Palestinians right to an independent state right off the bat? It shouldnt be so hard. After all, the prime minister declared eight years ago in his landmark Bar Ilan speech that he supports a two-state resolution to the conflict. In accordance with the second Quarter principle, Israel would abide by all the agreements it signed with the PLO, as well as by the Quarters resolutions, going back to the 1998 Wye River Memorandum, which bears the signature of none other than Benjamin Netanyahu. To date, Israel has not fulfilled its part of the agreement, which requires it to transfer territory from West Bank lands designated Area C, under total Israeli control, to Area A, which is under full PA control, and to Area B, under partial PA control. Netanyahu would also have to drop his refusal to reconvene the committee established under the agreement to monitor and prevent incitement to violence. It would appear that blaming the Palestinians for incitement is far easier than dealing with Israeli incitement against Palestinians. To set an example of adherence to previous agreements, Israel should also dust off the so-called road map for peace, issued by the Quartet in 2003, which that year was subsequently translated in full into the unanimously adopted UN Security Council Resolution 1515. The resolution requires that Israel immediately dismantle settlement outposts erected in the West Bank since March 2001 and to freeze all settlement activity, including natural growth of the settlements. Instead of immediately dismantling settlements, Israel continues to perpetually expand the construction it committed to suspending. On the third Quartet principle the cessation of terrorism which embodies the desire for peace more than anything else, Israel is hardly a role model. Whereas Abbas insists Hamas lay down its arms under the reconciliation agreement, Israel displays tolerance for armed Israeli settlers attacking the property and persons of their Palestinian neighbors. Of the 289 cases of ideologically motivated crimes committed by settlers against Palestinians monitored by Yesh Din between 2013 and 2016, only 20 resulted in indictments, while 225 complaints were dismissed. Forty-four remain open. Instead of disseminating a pack of lies about a desire for peace and risking war on three fronts, the minister of defense and his government colleagues would do well to read the oh-so-logical advice of the father of modern warfare, Karl von Clausewitz. War is not an independent phenomenon, but the continuation of politics by different means, the Prussian historian wrote in the 19th century. The problem is that the policies adopted by the current right-wing government are founded on a book written more than 2,000 years ago. October 16, 2017 RAMALLAH, West Bank The Union of Agricultural Work Committees is finalizing preparations for the launch of La Via Campesina-Palestine at a conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah on Nov. 29. Palestine will be the first Arab member of the international farmers movement La Via Campesina, also known as the International Peasants Movement. The Union of Agricultural Work Committees became a member of La Via Campesina in 2013. Since then, it has been seeking to establish La Via Campesina-Palestine through meetings and dialogue sessions with farmers and agricultural unions, which led to the formation on Sept. 29, 2016, of a farmers committee tasked with establishing La Via Campesina-Palestine. The committee is made up of 55 representatives of all agricultural sectors and commissions. La Via Campesina was founded in 1993 by agricultural organizations from different countries around the world as an independent movement opposed to globalization and global capitalism and its monopoly policies. The movement promotes food sovereignty as a political concept that requires sovereignty over land, resources and water, and is based on the right of nations and peoples to exploit their own resources. La Via Campesina-Palestine relies on the vision of the international movement in advocating sovereignty over food, land, resources and water. It seeks to advocate the issues of Palestinian farmers and claim their rights violated by Israel, such as not being denied control over their own land and water resources. Fuad Abu Saif, the director general of the Union of Agricultural Work Committees, told Al-Monitor, The launch of La Via Campesina-Palestine the first in the Arab world is vital. Its main role will be to claim, and focus on, the rights of farmers. It will also garner local, regional and international support for this cause. Palestinian farmers are not only struggling under the bad economic situation or poverty, they are also denied access to their rights and are unable to exploit their resources controlled by Israel, amid marginalization and neglect by the Palestinian Authority and its government. He explained that La Via Campesina-Palestine will primarily focus on mobilizing political, legal and public support for farmers' issues related to Israel's violations such as expropriation of lands, the expulsion of farmers from their fields, confiscation of water sources and transformation of fields and farms into military training grounds. Abu Saif added, We will open a file on the rights of farmers taken away by Israel at the international movement, which includes about 200 million farmers from 100 countries, and we will ask them to foster and promote this cause. This will allow us to benefit from their power to put pressure on their governments. According to statistics by the Abdullah Al-Hourani Center for Studies and Documentation affiliated with the PLO, Israel confiscated more than 12,326 dunums (roughly 3,046 acres) of Palestinian land in the West Bank in 2016, a sharp increase of 127% compared with 2015. Meanwhile, statistics issued by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics on March 22, 2015, marking World Water Day, showed the Israeli daily share per capita of water consumption was seven times higher than the Palestinian's. On this same day, Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah said in a speech that Israel controls some 90% of Palestinian water resources. La Via Campesina-Palestine will also focus on the financial needs of farmers. Farmers will receive financial support and the Palestinian movement will cater to their needs by building agricultural roads and water wells, for instance. Priority will be given to farmers in marginalized areas threatened by the risk of deportation and expulsion by Israel, Abu Saif said. He noted that a strong movement of farmers would push the official institutions and supporting international organizations to respond to the demands of farmers and to allocate more financial resources for implementing much-needed projects. Abu Saif said, In line with the responsibility of the Palestinian movement toward Palestinian farmers, La Via Campesina-Palestine will address the neglect and marginalization suffered by these farmers as a result of the Palestinian policies, such as low subsidies for farmers and their exclusion from the social security law and other unfair measures. He added, The agricultural sector has been marginalized by the Palestinian Authority. It is unreasonable to allocate only 1% of the general budget to the Ministry of Agriculture and to this sector. This ratio does not allow farmers to stay in the marginalized areas threatened by [Israeli] settlements and does not contribute to raising the contribution of agriculture to the gross domestic product." Abu Saif said, "La Via Campesina-Palestine will exert efforts with the local authorities and the government to amend the laws in line with the needs of the farmers. For instance, it is inconceivable that the social security law does not cover farmers and that the Palestinian Disaster Risk Reduction and Insurance Fund does not pay any money to farmers affected by severe weather conditions or Israeli measures. The announcement of the launch of La Via Campesina-Palestine in November will be the starting point for the activities of the movement and its work in the field across Palestine and the world, and an opportunity for Palestinian agricultural institutions and unions to follow suit. Ahmad Jaradat, a member of the farmers committee tasked with establishing La Via Campesina-Palestine, told Al-Monitor, "The vast majority of Palestinian agricultural institutions are familiar with international farmers' movement La Via Campesina or are working under its umbrella. La Via Campesina is open to welcome all those who wish to join it. He said that after its launch, La Via Campesina-Palestine will be responsible for building an Arab farmers movement, saying, According to recommendations by the international movement, any farmers movement in the Arab world must be recommended by La Via Campesina-Palestine to be accepted as a member of La Via Campesina. Jaradat added, Following the launch of La Via Campesina-Palestine, dozens of activities and meetings will be held with farmers in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, noting that a website will be launched for the Palestinian movement and will serve as a gateway to convey messages in various languages and highlight the rights of the farmers and the challenges facing them. October 16, 2017 The tens of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza who have been living abroad for decades are looking forward to returning but are not sure if they are ready to go back for good. Wafaa Abdel Rahman, a leading Gaza activist living in the West Bank, told Al-Monitor that she is cautiously optimistic about the Palestinian reconciliation and is excited to visit. We can now say that we have reached at least an agreement to manage the division, but it will take a couple of years for people to be sure that we are on the right track in Gaza. After years of broken promises, it appears that the Islamic Hamas movement has accepted the conditions of the Ramallah government to reunite both West Bank and Gaza into one entity, one law and one government. Abdel Rahman, who manages Filastiniyat, a women-led nongovernmental organization in Ramallah, says that the approximately 50,000 Palestinians from Gaza living in the West Bank will be among the first to visit the Strip, but that Israel will have to ease the permit protocols. She noted, Going to Gaza from the West Bank is not a Palestinian issue. Unfortunately, we are still under occupation and the occupiers are the ones who regulate our lives and our ability to travel, including between the West Bank and Gaza. Majdi Abu Zaid, the director general of AMAN, a coalition for accountability and integrity based in Ramallah, told Al-Monitor that most Gazans who live in the West Bank would love to visit Gaza, but have already established themselves with careers and families that it would be difficult to return to live there. She said, I love Ramallah and I have no interest in returning to live in Gaza, although many of us are dying to visit if we can. Abu Zaid says that some Gazans have not integrated, especially those who are being persecuted for being supporters of dismissed Fatah leader Mohammed Dahlan, who is a rival of President Mahmoud Abbas. She hopes that the reconciliation will ease the ability of Gazans living in the West Bank to travel abroad via Jordan. Part of the reconciliation agreement is permitting the presidential guards' return to Rafah, which will ensure the permanent reopening of the crossing point with Egypt. Even if they reside in the West Bank, Gazans need a special permit from Jordan prior to travel to or through Jordan, a major obstacle. There is nothing more frustrating for me when I travel than having to wait on the Jordanian intelligence to issue me what is called the no objection permit because I carry a blue card that is given to Palestinians of Gazan origin, Abu Zaid lamented. Ayman Bardawil, who has lived in Ramallah, Amman, Doha and Tunis since leaving Gaza to study at Birzeit University in 1992, expressed his passion to visit Gaza: For a while, I cut down on communications with family and friends in Gaza because it makes me angry that I cant visit them and they cant visit me, Bardawil told Al-Monitor by email. He went on, Of course, I look forward eagerly to go to Gaza if I can, but I will go to visit, since my life has been settled outside of Gaza. Plans to return to Gaza are also conditional on improvements in quality of life and governance there. Abdel Rahman expressed her concerns about the status of women in Gaza as well as how the decadelong division will be healed. She said, There is a lot of psychosocial work that is needed to overcome the trauma of the last 10 years. This is especially important for women who have suffered a lot during the rift and the rule of Hamas. While most Gazans are unlikely to go back to live there, it is expected that a number of Palestinian government employees will be among the first to go. Abdel Rahman expects public service employees and investors to make up the largest number of people going to live in Gaza. While it might take a year or two for the reconciliation to prove permanent, I expect many public servants and security personnel to go to Gaza. Also, I am sure investors eyeing the tourism potential and the possibility of investing in offshore gas exploration will top the list of groups going to live in Gaza, Abdel Rahman noted. The Palestinian reconciliation, which is still in its infancy, is providing cautious optimism to Palestinians inside and outside the Gaza Strip. The 10 years of division have left deep wounds that will take years to heal, and the brain drain that was caused by the split will not be easily reversed, no matter how well people are reassured that the dark years of the past will not be repeated. For the time being, Palestinians are crossing their fingers and hoping that Gazan and West Bank unity will take root and that the movement of people and goods within the two enclaves and the outside world will no longer be hindered by internal conflicts. October 17, 2017 As US-backed forces take victory laps in the Islamic States (IS) self-proclaimed capital of Raqqa, the Pentagon is considering extending its presence deeper into Syria, a move that could bring US troops into contact with pro-regime forces. Col. Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the US-led mission fighting the terror group, told reporters that the international coalition is in talks with Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commanders about continuing the campaign into IS-held areas along the Euphrates River following todays victory in Raqqa. He said the more than 600 US troops currently training and assisting the SDF wont be staying in Syria indefinitely, but acknowledged that there still is fighting that is left to be done. For now that fighting is taking SDF units straight to Deir ez-Zor, where an alliance of soldiers loyal to Bashar al-Assad, Russian troops and Iran-backed Shiite troops are trying to grapple territory back from IS and anti-regime rebels. And while the Pentagon is considering extending de-confliction agreements with Russia to cover a wider swath of Syria, former US officials say it will be difficult for the US military to avoid getting enmeshed in the politics of the wider war. You dont want to deploy US forces willy-nilly and find them in the middle of conflict, Robert Ford, a former US ambassador to Syria, told Al-Monitor. Its kind of a mission creep beyond going to get [IS]. Theyre going to have to be dealing as much as they dont want to with the politics of the Syrian civil war. Its just unavoidable now. Dillon said the US-led coalition hasnt heard anything from Russian forces about President Bashar al-Assad ending his tacit consent of the US troop presence in his country. After weakly protesting the US military operation as illegitimate and illegal since the beginning of Operation Inherent Resolve in 2014, however, the Syrian leader can be expected to make an increasingly forceful case as IS is eradicated. The US-led mission in Iraq and Syria ordered by then-President Barack Obama began three years ago. "Theyre going to have to be dealing as much as they dont want to with the politics of the Syrian civil war. Its just unavoidable now." Pro-regime troops and US forces have already been coming into closer contact over the past few months; indeed, the United States shot down a Syrian drone and a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet headed toward US-backed rebels in June. Still, US and Russian officials have maintained communication through a de-confliction line that extends from Al-Udeid air base in Qatar to Moscows command posts in Syria. The potential for conflict grows as the United States shifts its focus from IS to other foes, notably Iran and its proxies. During a gaggle with reporters on the way to US Central Command on Friday, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said the Pentagon is not changing US military posture in Iraq and Syria from a counter-IS to a counter-Iran mission, but added that American officials watch for Iran's destabilizing movements and activities everywhere. Yet the complexity of southern Syria, which some analysts worry could fall under Iranian control as a way for the Islamic Republic to solidify gains in the region, may incentivize the US to look toward rejiggering the anti-IS force. Iran is looking to solidify logistical supply lines across Syria and Iraq, said Melissa Dalton, a former Pentagon official and now a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. It certainly benefits Iran to try and build some connectivity between the Shia militias it supported in Iraq and Syria. Theres that added incentive for Assad to solidify those gains even if theres some intersection with US forces countering [IS]. With the United States looking down the contested Euphrates River Valley as a possible battle space, theres a question of whether the American troops in the country or US-trained forces "can be transformed into a presence against Iran, Dalton said. The Kurdish elements of the SDF may also increase the risk of conflict with the regime as they close in on the eastern side of the Euphrates River Valley, the site of Syrias most important oil field. Meanwhile, Assads government retains formal claim to the Syrian Kurdish city of Qamishli, the site of another important oil field. Its very difficult for Assads government to live comfortably alongside regions that aspire to an autonomous status and can thumb their noses at Damascus, Ford said. I see no sign that the government is more willing to employ reforms than they were before. As [IS] recedes, the likelihood of conflict between the Syrian government and other Syrian entities increases. And it remains unclear if the United States and Russia will agree to an extended dividing line in the region, especially if US troops pursue a broader mission, such as stalling Iranian gains. Experts also worry that it could exhaust extended special forces operators that have been committed more broadly around the world in recent years as train-and-equip missions expand. How much risk is the United States willing to expose its forces to on the ground? Dalton said. Iranian forces havent hesitated to kill and maim US forces in Iraq. The Pentagon has also faced heat from Congress. Earlier this month, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain, R-Ariz., refused to move ahead with confirmation hearings for Pentagon nominees until Mattis provided more details on the Donald Trump administrations strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan. While McCain has backed off of that threat, its not clear Congress is happy with US strategy in Syria after the Raqqa campaign. "For far too long, the United States has approached the Middle East through the narrow vantage point of counterterrorism, McCain said in a statement today. What we need instead is a comprehensive strategy that takes all regional factors into account a clear articulation of our interests and the ways and means we intend to secure them. The absence of such a strategy is acutely felt even as we celebrate this important success." October 17, 2017 Events show again how slippery a foundation politics in the Middle East sit on. A year ago I argued in this column that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) would remain Turkeys main ally in Iraq for the foreseeable future. Ankara and Baghdad were trading insults then over Iraqs categorical refusal to allow Turkey to participate in the liberation of Mosul from the Islamic State (IS). Baghdad was also demanding that uninvited Turkish troops at the Bashiqa camp near Mosul be withdrawn. The KRG, however, provided the cover for the Turkish military presence in Bashiqa. Ankara maintained at the time that it was the Iraqi Kurds who wanted Turkish troops in Iraq to train peshmerga fighters against IS. As far as Bashiqa is concerned, you know that from the start the [Massoud] Barzani administration wanted Turkish support to train local forces for the liberation of Mosul. This is clear and not open to dispute, Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus told reporters after the Iraqi parliament demanded Turkish withdrawal. Meanwhile, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, angered by Baghdads refusal to let Turkey participate in the liberation of Mosul, was berating Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi. Calling Abadi his subordinate and telling him to know [his] place, Erdogan insisted that Turkey did not need anyones permission to participate in the Mosul operation. In the end, Abadi carried the day in Mosul, with US support, while Turkey refused to pull its forces back from Bashiqa, which remains a sore point between the sides. KRG President Massoud Barzanis gamble with his independence referendum, however, has changed everything, forcing Turkey and Iraq into an alliance against the KRG a match that doesnt look like it was made in heaven. Officially, Ankara is happy to see the KRG lose much of Kirkuk and has offered Baghdad what assistance it needs. It is also happy that tens of thousands of Kurds who had resettled in the oil rich city after the US occupation in 2003 are fleeing now. Ankara argues that the resettlement of Kurds in Kirkuk was designed to artificially change the demography of the city, which it says is a Turkmen city historically. Its strained ties with Baghdad, however, ensured that it did not pursue this matter with the KRG in recent years. It is not certain, though, that Baghdads taking control of the city with an operation spearheaded by the Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) will result in the administration Turkey wants to see in Kirkuk. There is also the problem of the PMU, which is a Shiite terrorist group in Ankaras eyes. It was not long ago that the pro-government analysts were writing that this group was as bad as IS. When the PMU was preparing to take Tal Afar from IS in 2016, Erdogan warned that if it terrorized the city, which he said was totally Turkmen, Turkey would step in. Ankara did not want this group to be part of the operation to liberate Mosul either, but it failed to prevent this. The PMU, for its part, warned Turkey of dire consequences if it refused to withdraw its troops from Bashiqa, referring to the Turkish military presence as occupiers. Such serious differences between Baghdad and Ankara appear to have been momentarily shelved as the two countries try now to coordinate their joint actions against the KRG. The future status of Kirkuk, however, is likely to remain a bone of contention. Agitated by the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) which is close to the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) Turkish nationalists regard Kirkuk to be Turkeys by birthright. The MHP says thousands of its partisans are ready to fight and die for the city, which, it argues, was illegally wrested from Turkey after World War I. Such serious differences between Baghdad and Ankara appear to have been momentarily shelved as the two countries try now to coordinate their joint actions against the KRG. This narrative is likely to have fueled suspicions in Baghdad about Turkeys ultimate intentions in Iraq. Most diplomats in Ankara believe that Baghdad is unlikely to let Ankara have a say over the future of Kirkuk with such clamoring in Turkey. Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution adopted in 2005 calls for a referendum to determine whether Kirkuks citizens want to join the Kurdistan region. However, much has happened since then demographically, politically and militarily, making it difficult to hold this referendum. A Western diplomat speaking to Al-Monitor off the record due to his sensitive position believes there will be little incentive now for the central government to share Kirkuks administration. With the Kurds dispatched from Kirkuk, there is a good chance that the central government, which is predominantly Shiite, will take full control of the city and its oil facilities and refuse to share power, the diplomat, who knows the region well, said. There will also be no reason for the central government to go out of its way to accommodate Sunni Turkmen, especially those Turkmen groups that have been supported by Ankara politically and financially for years. Iran, on the other hand, is better poised than Turkey with regard to the future of Kirkuk, the diplomat said. Meanwhile, unresolved issues between Ankara and Baghdad, such as the Turkish military presence in Bashiqa, are said to have forced Prime Minister Binali Yildirim to cancel his expected visit to Baghdad. Ankaras Kurdish phobia, which has been amplified exponentially by the KRGs independence referendum, may be preventing official circles from airing their concerns regarding the Abadi government. There are, however, analysts, some close to the government, who are warning that while Turkey may be happy that the Kurds in Kirkuk are being rolled back, the final outcome may not please Ankara. When Turkey formulates its new Iraq policy, it should not invest in the agendas of the central government in Iraq and Iran, Galip Dalay, the research director at Al Sharq Forum, wrote in an article for daily Karar. As long as the current trend continues, Turkey is unlikely to have much influence over the central government in Iraq. Ufuk Ulutas, the director of foreign policy at the government-sponsored Political, Economic and Social Research Foundation on the other hand lamented the headache Barzani has caused Turkey. In an article for the pro-government daily Aksam, Ulutas said Barzani had thrown the Kurds into an open-ended conflict with his referendum. He added that Barzani had also increased Irans and the PMUs influence in Iraq, which, he said is not good for Turkey. Ulutas also said the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) had also gained a historic opportunity to increase its influence in northern Iraq, thanks to Barzani. Retired Brig. Gen. Naim Baburoglu agreed with those who say Turkeys influence in Kirkuk will be limited. He believes, however, that issues like the PMU in Kirkuk and the citys future are of secondary importance for Turkey. Developments in Iraq are not independent of developments in Syria, where Kurds have also gained ground with US and Russian backing, Baburoglu told Al-Monitor. Turkey supports Iraqs territorial integrity, which the Kurdish administration endangered. The PKK also used the turmoil to strengthen its position in northern Iraq. It is therefore the lesser evil for Turkey to have the central government controlling Kirkuk, in the name of preserving Iraqs territorial integrity against Kurdish aspirations, he added. Baburoglu underlined that independence for the Kurds remains the principal threat for Turkey. October 17, 2017 Turkey has thrown its support behind the Iraqi government, whose forces took control of the mainly Kurdish-run city of Kirkuk and its nearby oil fields after last months Kurdish independence referendum sparked a confrontation that threatens the balances in a war-weary region. Iraqi troops were met with little resistance from Kurdish peshmerga fighters in a lightning-quick operation on Monday when they captured the oil-rich city of Kirkuk, part of disputed territories mainly controlled by the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) despite being outside of the autonomous region. For years there have been attempts to change the demographic structure in Kirkuk with de facto situations. It is a positive development that the Iraqi central government has retaken control of Kirkuk, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim told party members in parliament on Tuesday. Late on Monday, Yildirims Cabinet decided to close Turkish airspace to flights to and from airports in Kurdish-run northern Iraq and to begin the process of giving the central government control of the Habur border gate, which has been run by the KRG on the Iraqi side. The measures are a clear shift in Ankaras stance toward Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadis government, with whom Turkey has repeatedly sparred in recent years, and a clear reiteration of its anger over the once-friendly KRGs decision to hold the vote for independence on Sept. 25 despite opposition from Turkey, Iraq, Iran and the United States. A day after the vote, Turkish and Iraqi soldiers held a joint military exercise in Turkey near its border with Iraq. However, sharp differences remain with Baghdad. Yildirim canceled a visit to the Iraqi capital this week that had been scheduled before the Kirkuk operation. The two sides were to discuss steps to take together against the KRG, Turkish media outlets reported. According to Cumhuriyet, the visit was canceled because Turkey rebuffed Baghdads long-standing demand that Turkish troops withdraw from the Iraqi town of Bashiqa, near Mosul. Tensions between Turkey and Iraq flared last year over the presence of an estimated 2,000 Turkish soldiers in Bashiqa and other parts of northern Iraq. At the time, Turkey said its forces were there at the request of Iraqi Kurdistan President Massoud Barzani and were training peshmerga and Sunni fighters ahead of the US-led campaign to retake Mosul from the Islamic State. Turkish officials told their Iraqi counterparts a withdrawal of Turkish troops from Bashiqa was not our priority at present, Cumhuriyet reported. Iraqi officials also want Turkey to deliver on its threats to halt Kurdish oil exports, it said. Still, the common ground Turkey has found with Iraq as well as Iran in its opposition to the KRG is a rare display of regional unity, forged by shared apprehension that the vote for independence in Iraqi Kurdistan will stoke separatism among Kurds in their own countries. Turkey is home to about half of an estimated 35 million Kurds who occupy a crescent-shaped expanse across Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran. The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) has waged a 33-year insurgency in Turkey at a cost of more than 40,000 lives. Turkey had fostered economic and diplomatic links with Barzani, seeing him as a counterweight to the PKK and enjoying trade with the Kurdistan Region that hit $5 billion in the first six months of this year. Close ties with Barzani were also a means to pressure an unfriendly Baghdad. All that changed with the independence referendum, which passed with 93% approval. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Turkey could take military action over the illegal and illegitimate vote. "Barzani's push for an independence referendum upended Turkey's interests and strategy in Iraq. Until recently, there was speculation that if Turkey were to militarily intervene in Iraq, it would do so in cooperation with Barzani, either against the PKK or Iranian-backed forces, Nicholas Danforth, senior policy adviser at the Bipartisan Policy Center in Washington, told Al-Monitor. At the point where Erdogan was forced to side with Baghdad in taking a firm stand against Barzani and KRG independence, he sacrificed some of his leverage with Baghdad as well, Danforth said. Turkey is especially anxious over reports that Iraqi Kurdish authorities brought in PKK militants to Kirkuk. The Foreign Ministry said on Monday that Turkey was ready to fight the PKK with Baghdad. Aydin Selcen, a former consul general in the Iraqi Kurdish capital of Erbil, sounded an alarm over the severe tone. The rhetoric taps into nationalist sentiment at home and may stoke resentment among Turkeys Kurds, he told the independent media platform Medyascope TV. Kurds, be they in Syria or Iraq, are Turkeys neighbors, and they are not going anywhere. What does it say to Turkeys Kurds, will this benefit peace in Turkey? Will it contribute to Turkey being an effective player in regional politics? The winners here are Tehran and Baghdad, Selcen said. I am concerned that [Turkeys] political calculations are for the very short term and that in the long run there will be a price to pay. October 17, 2017 From Oct. 8-12, Turkish intelligence and special forces elements carried out reconnaissance in Syria north of Idlib and south of Afrin while maintaining contacts with Sunni opposition units that control the region. This preparatory activity was actually shaping an operational theater. Afterward, a Turkish detachment of about 100 commandos, 30 vehicles, and construction and military engineering equipment entered Syria. An Oct. 13 statement from the Turkish military high command said Turkish troops that will serve in the Idlib de-escalation zone had begun erecting military observation posts, as specified during the peace talks in Astana, Kazakhstan. That night, a second Turkish detachment, which was operating M60T Sabra and Leopard 2 tanks, entered Syria and began deploying at Sheikh Barakat, an 842-meter-high (2,762-foot-high) mountain that dominates Afrin. The government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad called Turkeys deployment north of Idlib a blatant aggression against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and a clear violation of international law and its principles. The Idlib operation launched Oct. 13 marks the third time the Turkish army has entered Syrian territory in less than three years. A February 2015 operation relocated the tomb of Suleiman Shah, which was threatened by the Islamic State (IS). In August 2016, Operation Euphrates Shield began clearing the Jarablus-al Rai-al Bab triangle of IS elements; that campaign lasted seven months. Now, according to the Astana accords, Turkish soldiers will serve for six months inside and north of Idlib. Ankaras goal with this deployment is to construct 14 observation outposts in the 50-kilometer (31-mile) stretch between Reyhanli, Turkey, and Mare, Syria, which is already incorporated into the Operation Euphrates Shield territory. This would enable Ankara to set up a de-escalation zone north of Idlib while controlling the dominating elevations of Sheikh Barakat south of Afrin, which would form a military belt around Afrin. Now eyes are on Turkey's 155 mm howitzers and 122 mm multiple rocket launcher systems at Reyhanli. If these heavy fire support vehicles also enter Syria, it would mean Turkey would be extending its fire coverage to Afrin, thus bringing the entire Afrin area under its control without even dominating the airspace. Moreover, for radical groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham to hand over such a dominating land feature as Sheikh Barakat to Turkish soldiers without clashing indicates that the negotiations between Ankara and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham have yielded results, at least north of Idlib. Now the focus is on the ground negotiations on Idlib, which Ankara is carrying out, watched carefully by Russia. Security sources have told Al-Monitor that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham groups in Idlib have been offered alternatives: lay down their weapons and demobilize and be allowed to remain in Idlib for the time being; become moderates and join the Free Syrian Army controlled by Ankara; or engage in clashes. Reports say those who agree to join the FSA and their families will not be allowed to stay in Idlib but will be transferred to the enclave cleared by Operation Euphrates Shield. This is why we may well see the evacuation of large groups of people by bus from the Idlib area to the Euphrates Shield pocket. Those who remain in Idlib but insist on keeping their weapons will be considered radical elements or terrorists. This is the most critical element: Will Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-affiliated radical groups inside or around Idlib resort to armed resistance? This would directly affect efforts to create the Idlib de-escalation zone and could rapidly turn the cease-fire monitoring mission into a cease-fire enforcement mission. I personally believe these radical elements will choose to lose themselves in the human terrain and prepare for a long-term, low-intensity campaign of terror attacks. At the Astana talks, Russia, Iran and Turkey agreed to send 500 troops each to the Idlib area. Turkey is expected to send more, but so far there's been no word of any major military movements by Russia and Iran to that area. It appears Iran and Russia are waiting for Turkey to complete its military deployment and for the negotiation process on the ground to end. Meanwhile, Russian and Syrian regime air attacks against radical elements inside Idlib continue unabated. Can these military moves by Turkey escalate to a major military operation against Afrin? My answer is yes, that Ankara wants this very much but only if Russia approves. We therefore have to monitor three key military indicators on the ground. First, will the Russian soldiers already in Afrin withdraw? Second, will Russia open the airspace that it firmly controls west of the Euphrates to Turkish war planes and helicopters? Finally, will the Syrian army be allowed to approach the region? Looking at the options, my assessment is that Russia will not allow Turkey to impose full control over Afrin beyond laying siege to its south. As I stressed in an earlier article, Russia, by holding Turkey at bay against possible action on Afrin, wants to discourage further deepening of US ties with the (Kurdish) People's Protection Units (YPG) in Afrin. Turkish officials say the US-backed YPG is an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party, which Turkey considers a terrorist group. Then the most logical choice for Russia is to allow Turkey some degree of control south of Afrin to appease Ankara, while encouraging negotiations between the YPG which currently controls Afrin and the Assad regime for the Syrian army to assume control there. Would this Russian plan work? We should ask the Russians: The situation is heating up by the day. Is there a de-escalation plan for a potential Turkish military-YPG confrontation south of Afrin? Joe Songer/jsonger@al.com Good People Brewing Co. has acquired Avondale Brewing Co., just days after it was sold to a Birmingham developer. In an announcement, Good People said it is bought the brewery and its assets from Avondale Holdings, a subsidiary of Orchestra Partners. Don't Edit Lee Roop | lroop@al.com Airbus and Bombardier have announced a new partnership that likely will bring a second aircraft assembly line to Mobile. Company leaders made the joint announcement late Monday afternoon. Under the deal, Airbus will acquire a majority stake in the limited partnership that produces Bombardier's C Series aircraft. Don't Edit William Thornton | wthornton@al.com Any state seeking the proposed $1.6 billion Toyota-Mazda auto manufacturing plant may have a steep price to pay. According to Bloomberg, Toyota Motor Corp. and Mazda Motor Corp. want an incentive package of at least $1 billion to get the sought-after factory. Don't Edit (Joe Songer/jsonger@al.com) Mercedes-Benz parent corporation Daimler AG is considering making the auto arm into an independent division. In an investors relations release, Daimler said Mercedes-Benz Cars & Vans and Daimler Trucks & Buses may become "two legally independent entities to take greater entrepreneurial responsibility." The two would exist alongside Daimler Financial Services AG with headquarters in Germany. Don't Edit Michelle Matthews | mmatthews@al.com Alabama Splash Adventure has a new attraction coming next season, and the park is turning to the public to come up with a name for it. A new kids' slide complex and interactive play structure is planned for the 2018 season, to debut next May. This is the latest in a series of $10 million worth of improvements to the park since its purchase in 2014. Don't Edit Don't Edit Erin Edgemon | eedgemon@al.com The University of Alabama at Birmingham creates an annual economic impact of $7.15 billion in the state, according to a new study. This is a 55 percent increase in eight years, the university said in a statement. Don't Edit Leada Gore | lgore@al.com In a roundup of Mobile area real estate, a local investment group has received city approval to develop Gulf Stream, a 64-unit townhome community on 11 acres on the south side of Canal Road near Blalock Seafood in Orange Beach, according to Nathan Cox, CEO of 68 Ventures. Don't Edit Lee Roop | lroop@al.com More than 450 small business representatives will converge on Huntsville this week for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Small Business Forum. The event, which is taking place Wednesday at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center's Davidson Center, involves contracting officers, program and project managers and business representatives looking to partner with the Corps' Engineering and Support Center. Don't Edit Kelly Poe | kpoe@al.com Waitr, the on-demand restaurant platform which launched in Montgomery last month, is starting a new Thanksgiving food drive. The app can be used to help feed the needy beginning today, the company announced. Anyone ordering from a restaurant using Waitr will have the option to help feed a family locally Don't Edit Bob Carlton | bcarlton@al.com A movie about the brothers who discovered bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger is being filmed in downtown Birmingham today. Birmingham Police blocked off the 2100 block of First Avenue North this morning and filming will continue into this afternoon, said Jay Clyce, a Hoover mortgage loan officer who plays a banker in the movie and was in costume for filming this morning. Don't Edit Don't Edit Paul Gattis | pgattis@al.com The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is joining other powerhouse campaign contributors and pro-business interest groups in backing out of the U.S. Senate race in Alabama. In an email to AL.com Tuesday, Scott Reed, the senior political strategist with the national chamber, said the group plans to "spend the next 60 days working on job growth initiatives and tax reform." Don't Edit MIT If you've ever been to a science museum and put your hand on a metal globe that made your hair stand on end, you can thank an Alabamian. The device that makes kids giggle while learning about static electricity, and until modern times created the energy needed for important nuclear physics experiments, is called the Van de Graaff generator. Don't Edit Ben Flanagan | bflanagan@al.com Netflix is sinking deeper into debt in its relentless pursuit of more viewers, leaving the company little margin for error as it tries to build the world's biggest video subscription service, the AP reports. The big burden that Netflix is shouldering hasn't been a major concern on Wall Street so far, as CEO Reed Hastings' strategy has been paying off. Don't Edit Lee Roop | lroop@al.com Donald Trump's presidency is bad for business his own, NBC News reports. Unless his business is getting presidential business. Conflict of interest concerns over the mix of presidential politics and his personal businesses have followed Trump ever since he announced his candidacy after gliding down the escalator of his namesake tower. And it's been difficult for the public to get a clear view of the extent to which the two worlds have become blended. Don't Edit Lee Roop | lroop@al.com By slashing corporate tax rates, the Trump administration said Monday, the average U.S. household will get an estimated $4,000 more a year. This stunning 5 percent increase was met with skepticism from tax experts and Democratic lawmakers who said the math was flawed, the Chicago Tribune reports. Don't Edit Update: Jimmy Wayne Blair was located and taken into custody in Floyd County around 11 p.m. , Sheriff Jeff Shaver said. Original story continues below. The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office is looking for a work release inmate who escaped from a job site on Monday morning. Jimmy Wayne Blair Jr., 40, was jailed on property crime charges last year, according to court records. He was working at a construction site in Centre when he left in a truck belonging to his employer at 10:30 a.m., the sheriff's office said. Blair was jailed on property crimes. Blair is a 6 feet, 2 inches tall and weighs about 210 pounds. According to court records, his residence is located in Silver Creek, Georgia, which is about 45 minutes away from Centre. He could be driver his employer's blue 2003 Dodge 3500 flatbed. If anyone sees Blair or knows his location, please contact authorities at the sheriff's office at 256-927-3365 or the tip line at 256-927-9999. This post was updated at 5:40 a.m. Oct. 17 with information on Blair's capture. A Georgia man was killed after his vehicle struck a culvert on Tuesday, Alabama State Troopers said. Donald R. Collum, 77, of Adairsville, Georgia died when his GMC Arcadia he was driving left U.S. 278 at the 118 mile marker and hit the culvert at 10:02 a.m. Collum died at the scene, which was located eight miles west of Attalla. Troopers are still investigating what caused the wreck. No additional details were released. Antoine "Twin" Collier A man fatally gunned down at a Birmingham gas station in broad daylight Tuesday was previously shot 10 times in a six-month period. Authorities on Tuesday night identified the victim as 29-year-old Antione Collier, known to many by his nickname "Twin." Court records identify him as Antoine Collier. A woman in her 50's, who police described as an innocent bystander, is fighting for her life at UAB Hospital after she was struck multiple times by the more than 40 bullets fired in store parking lot. Collier died on the sidewalk of the Exxon service station at the corner of Graymont Avenue and Arkadelphia Road just before 1:30 p.m., and his mother told AL.com just six months ago that she braced herself every time the phone rang. "I'm the mother who hates to answer the phone,'' Kimberly Flowers said in April. "You worry about your child." Collier was released from prison just over one year ago and though he said he wanted to do better, trouble still followed him, his mother previously said. He remained a target for those who wanted to harm him and his mother turned to the Birmingham Police Department to help her help her son. BPD, through its Violence Reduction Initiative, tried to give him what he needed to turn his life around. They visited him in the hospital, and he even sent a text from the hospital to one official that read, in part, "I've cried till I can't anymore cause I'm blessed. I think when my health gets better, I wanna speak to young black males about violence." In the most recent shooting prior to the one that ended his life Tuesday, Collier was shot in the face and spent a considerable amount of time in the hospital and then a secure rehabilitation facility. He was released over the summer. Flowers on Tuesday said she wasn't ready to talk about her son's death, but said she was doing OK because, "I've got Jesus." The shooting happened at 1:26 p.m. Lt. Sean Edwards said Collier and his girlfriend were entering the store when two black males shot him. The shooters fled in an unknown vehicle. "Brazen. Very reckless. It's a total disregard for life,'' said Birmingham police Sgt. Bryan Shelton. "We are looking for an individual or individuals who clearly have no regard for life at all." "We have to really consider the thought process that violence is not the answer,'' Shelton said. "Resorting to violence doesn't solve anything. It only causes more heartache and pain. It's a difficult time for the families. It's something they'll never forget." Collier was shot while standing in front of his vehicle, which was parked at Good Tyme Pizza, which adjoins the Exxon. His girlfriend reportedly was with him. She was shaken, but not injured. The female victim, police said, had just ordered her food at the pizza restaurant. She was not affiliated with Collier. She had just gotten something to eat,'' said Lt. Sean Edwards. Several rounds struck her. They're working on her right now, and hopefully she'll pull through." "It's very critical for her right now,'' Edwards said. Residents who live near the busy intersection said the gunfire sounded like fireworks at first, but they then realized it was the rapid fire of bullets. More than 100 onlookers gathered at the intersection and remained there for nearly three hours while investigators marked and collected evidence, and documented the scene. At one point, a female police officer told anyone who had brought their children to a crime scene - and there were many - needed to take them home. Collier's mother and father both were at the scene. Collier was previously shot near Legion Field, not far from where he was killed Tuesday. Edwards said in two of those shootings, he was allegedly stealing illegal narcotics from another individual. "Most of the investigators are familiar with him,'' Edwards said. "These guys were looking for him. It's obvious they were looking for him. They definitely targeted him." Edwards said he couldn't yet speak to a motive, and said investigators don't yet have any suspects. "It's obvious these gunmen were looking for Collier with the intent of killing him,'' said Police Chief A.C. Roper. "It's a tragedy for his family but regardless of the circumstances that lead to his murder, we need to bring the killers to justice. " Collier is the city's 80th homicide victim in 2017. Of those, at least five have been ruled justifiable and therefore aren't deemed criminal. In all of Jefferson County, there have been 127 homicides, including the 80 in Birmingham. Anyone with information is asked to call Birmingham homicide detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. An investigation is underway into a weekend domestic dispute that spanned nearly eight hours Sunday morning, left two people with gunshot wounds and involved State Rep. Steve Hurst. The injuries weren't life-threatening, and no arrests have yet been made. An effort to reach Hurst for comment wasn't immediately successful. Oxford police Capt. L.G. Owens provided this account of what happened: Officers were dispatched at 4:15 a.m. Sunday to a home in the 1000 block of Mae Road on an assault. When they arrived, they walked with the resident - Daniel Blake Turner - who was there with his girlfriend. Police were told that the girlfriend - Katelyn Cruise - had called her parents and told them she was assaulted by her boyfriend. Officers talked with both Turner and Katelyn Cruise, both of whom told police there was no assault. The officers also said they saw no visible marks or injuries on either party. While officers were still on scene, Hurst showed up. He is Katelyn's step-grandfather. The legislator, a Republican whose House District 35 includes Calhoun, Clay, Coosa and Talladega counties, approached the boyfriend and tried to hit him with his fist, but missed. The two were then separated. Hurst told officers he believed that his granddaughter had been assaulted by the boyfriend in the past and was there to get her. Both the granddaughter and her boyfriend still denied anything had happened. The granddaughter told officers that it was a misunderstanding and she could not explain any text messages sent from her phone to the contrary. The granddaughter said she did not want to file a report or charges and left with her grandfather. The boyfriend told officers that he did not wish to press charges against Hurst. Then, at noon, police received 911 calls about gunfire on Mae Road, as well as a call from Turner, the boyfriend, about gunfire at his home. Turner told police that James Cruise, his girlfriend's father, had come to the home to get his daughter. Cruise is Rep. Hurst's stepson. Turner told police James Cruise and his wife, Michelle Cruise, got out of their vehicle. James Cruise, he told them, began to walk around the home with a handgun beating on the walls and windows while demanding that Turner and Katelyn Cruise come outside. When no one exited the home, James Cruise stood in the front yard and fired a shot in the air. Turner said his girlfriend then went outside through the carport door to where the father was standing. Turner said when he heard the gunshot, he retrieved his shotgun and loaded it with birdshot. Turner said he then exited his home and was met by James Cruise in the driveway. James Cruise still had a pistol in his hand and was yelling for his daughter to get in his car. Turner stated that James raised the pistol towards him, and Turner fired a shot which struck James in the face. James Cruise retreated to his vehicle and got in the passenger's side and left with his wife driving and Katelyn as a passenger. Turner said his girlfriend's father fired multiple shots in his direction as they were leaving. No one at the home was injured. James and Michelle Cruise then drove to Northeast Alabama Regional Medical where they were treated for their gunshot wounds. James Cruise was later transferred to a Huntsville hospital for further treatment, Katelyn Cruise was not injured. The Mae Road scene was then processed by Oxford Police Criminal Investigations Division. Oxford police investigators were called to NEARMC, where the Cruise' vehicle was impounded and taken to the Oxford Police Department to be processed. Investigators also completed a preliminary interview with the Cruises. Oxford police investigators are still waiting to interview the Cruises for a second time after their release from the hospital. Owens said case remains under investigation at this time. Two Balch & Bingham attorneys and one Drummond Company executive on Monday pleaded not guilty to charges that they bribed former Alabama state Rep. Oliver Robinson to oppose the expansion of an environmental clean-up site in Birmingham. Balch & Bingham attorneys Joel Iverson Gilbert and Steven George McKinney and Drummond vice president David Lynn Roberson entered the pleas during a hearing before Magistrate Judge T Michael Putnam at the Hugo Black U.S. Courthouse. All three men were released on $5,000 unsecured bonds. The defendants are charged in a six-count indictment, issued Sept. 28, that alleges conspiracy, bribery, three counts of honest services wire fraud, and money laundering. Putnam also held a conference with attorneys after the hearing. Later on Monday the judge issued a ruling, at the request of attorneys, to continue the Dec. 4 trial date in the case. "Counsel contended that the ends of justice require a continuance of the trial setting to give them a fair opportunity to review the government's (prosecutor's) discovery and to conduct their own investigation of the facts alleged in the 34-page indictment," Putnam wrote in his order. Putnam told the lawyers that it would insist that each defendant sign a waiver of their Speedy Trial Act rights no later than Oct. 20 in order to get the trial continuance. "The indictment alleges generally a scheme to bribe a public official, Alabama House member Oliver Robinson, to use his influence to oppose the designation of certain neighborhoods in his House district as part of a Superfund clean-up site on the National Priorities List," according to Putnam's order. "The evidence relevant to this allegation involves emails, correspondence, and financial records over a two-year period of time that are complex and voluminous. Contingent upon the filing of such waivers, the court finds that the ends of justice outweigh the interests of the defendants and the public in a Speedy Trial." At least two of the men had filed the waivers as of Tuesday morning. The judge also set a Dec. 19 status conference in the case. McKinney was chair of the firm's Environmental and Natural Resources Section at the law firm and Gilbert worked in that section. Drummond hired Balch & Bingham to respond to actions by the United States Environmental Protection Agency to expand the superfund cleanup site. Adding it to the priorities list would have exposed Drummond to "tens of millions of dollars" in costs, U.S. Attorney Jay Town said at the time the men were indicted. Robinson was previously charged in the bribery scheme. Robinson has pleaded guilty to charges related to the scheme and bribery. A Cherokee County work release inmate who left a job site was recaptured in Georgia late Monday. Jimmy Wayne Blair Jr., 40, walked away from a construction site about 10:30 a.m. Monday in Centre. He left in a truck - a 2003 Dodge 3500 flatbed - that belonged to his boss. He apparently headed back home to Georgia. Deputies from two counties searched for him all afternoon. He was finally arrested about 11 p.m. in Rome, Georgia. He is charged in Floyd County, Ga. With theft of property, fugitive from justice and probation violation. Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver said Blair will be extradited to Alabama when a Georgia court releases him. The wife of suspended Jefferson County District Attorney Charles Todd Henderson will refuse to testify at her husband's perjury trial this week, but a prosecutor told the judge Monday they may challenge the validity of the couple's marriage. Henderson's trial began Monday with jury selection before Chilton County Circuit Judge Sibley G. Reynolds, who is presiding over Henderson's case after Jefferson County judges recused themselves. The trial is being held at the Jefferson County Criminal Courts building. Opening statements by prosecutors and Henderson's attorneys are to begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday. Henderson, a Democrat, won the November general election against long-time incumbent District Attorney Brandon Falls, a Republican. Henderson was indicted Jan. 13, less than a week before he was to take office. He was automatically suspended with pay pending the outcome of the perjury charge. The perjury trial revolves around Henderson's testimony at a Sept. 26, 2016 hearing involving the divorce of Yareima Carmen Valecillos Akl - the woman Henderson would later marry - and her now former husband Charbel Akl. Henderson had been appointed guardian ad litem in that divorce case in January 2016 to represent the interests of the couple's 10-year-old child. But in May he was removed as GAL after allegations he was biased against the father and after it was revealed that the mother had been working on Henderson's campaign prior to his appointment. Then at the couple's September divorce trial before Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge Patricia Stephens, Henderson testified, and evidence surfaced that he and the mother were in a romantic relationship, according to court records. According to the transcript of that hearing Henderson said that the former Ms. Akl had been campaigning for him since September or October 2015. Mr. Akl's attorney then asked Henderson whether since she had been campaigning for him whether there had been a time when he has spent the night at her apartment. He twice said "no." Stephens recused herself from the Akl's divorce case and it was transferred to Circuit Judge Tim Riley in Marshall County. In July Riley granted the divorce over the objections of the husband, who is now appealing to the Alabama Supreme Court. After the divorce, state prosecutors expressed concern in court records that Henderson and the former Ms. Akl would get married and she could not be forced to testify. According to Jefferson County Probate Court records Henderson married the former Mrs. Akl on Sept. 7 in Chambers County. At a hearing Monday morning an attorney for Henderson's new wife told the judge that she would be asserting her right not to testify. Assistant Alabama Attorney General Matt Hart told the judge that the A.G.'s office may challenge the validity of Henderson's new marriage. He said the A.G.'s office was reviewing an Alabama Supreme Court order issued in the case and would have a decision by 2:30 p.m. on their plans. Hart had declined an AL.com request for comment on the issue. And by the end of jury selection Hart had not addressed the issue again to the judge. About a dozen or so supporters of Henderson attended today's jury selection. Some of them claimed the charges against Henderson are politically motivated. Henderson and his attorneys have argued that Henderson did not lie - that he and future wife didn't "hook up" until July of 2016, after Henderson had already been removed as guardian. Joe Espy, one of Henderson's attorneys, told the judge that in 198 years there has never been a perjury case stemming from the domestic court in Jefferson County. For more than 30 years women have tried to make inroads into top management with few results but thats changing. London If you want to run one of the UKs 100 largest companies you have a better chance if your name is David than if you are a woman. (Eight Davids, six women.) For more than 30 years, women have been trying to make inroads into top management with few results. Now there is a game-changer: women returnships high-level, paid internships to get experienced, skilled women back into work after raising a family or looking after elderly parents. The majority of people who step out of organisations dont do it with the intention of leaving permanently, said Julianne Miles, who co-founded Women Returners, an organisation that has helped hundreds of women find jobs. They think Ill take a break for a few years and then Ill go back. Sometimes a few years turns into five years, 10 years, and the more amount of time that goes on the more challenging it is to get back in. Miles said a number of factors external and internal keep women from going back. Companies see gaps in CVs and see risk; the women often need flexible hours; and many lose their self-confidence and professional identity, writing themselves off as just mothers. Henrietta Gibb is back at work after taking a 12-year break from the corporate world to raise three children. She applied to more than 30 companies before getting an internship at Tideway, the company building a new sewage system for London. I felt quite confident but then when I sat down for the interview I suddenly thought: Oh my goodness! What am I doing? Am I going to be able to answer these questions properly? I think thats a natural way to feel probably when youre suddenly back in that situation, said Gibb, Tideways creative services manager. Looking out on a muddy construction site along the River Thames as orange bulldozers, dump trucks with flashing lights, diggers and forklifts rumble by, Gibb said it took some adjusting to full-time work. Her 11-year-old daughter is old enough to know Im not there. During the summer holidays shed text: when are you going to be home? and what are you cooking for dinner?, Gibb said. Parenting skills such as multi-tasking and crisis management, Gibb said, can transfer to the office. Many companies agree and welcome the return of experienced women. They come in and they are extremely valued members of staff and help move through the organisation and get promoted along the way, said Julie Thornton, human resources manager for Tideway. The construction company sees the returnships as a way to address its gender gap; only 10 percent of employees are women. But what does Thornton say to the man who has never taken a career break, doesnt ask for flexible working hours and resents the woman now sitting next to him, who may be promoted over him. We know that organisations are more effective, more efficient, more productive when they have a balance of individuals whether thats gender, whether thats race, et cetera, Thornton said. For me its about actually embracing that difference and actually there is opportunity for all people and we should embrace that and make sure all people have the career path they are looking for. But we shouldnt exclude because theyve taken care and responsibility of people and taken time out of work, Thornton said. It makes economic sense: the annual affect that women out of the workforce (or those working below their skills) has on the UK economy is 1.78bn pounds ($2.37bn). There are a number of organisations, such as Women Returners, helping women get back to work. In the US, iRelaunch and Moms Corp have found jobs for countless women. And the movement is growing: Women Returners has expanded to Ireland and has had queries from grassroots organisations in Costa Rica, Taiwan, South Korea and Australia. Many elements have converged to make these returnships a viable, accepted form of recruitment: women at home are an untapped resource; careers are longer so it makes sense for women to go back to work in their mid-30s or 40s; and its a given that diversity strengthens companies. But its hard to underestimate the confidence women whove been out of work need to summon just to apply for a job they feel their skills are outdated. They wonder how they will cope with new technology and fear they wont fit in even regarding their appearance. Miles said one of their most popular blogs is what to wear to work. Before I started I spoke to one of the women returners and I said: Im really worried what I wear and on the women returners blog it says sometimes you can go stand outside the company and watch what people are wearing. I know that every company, every organisation, has its own culture about what they wear, Gibb said. In the end, Gibb didnt feel the need to lurk outside Tideway and opted for basic attire. On the day we met, she was wearing black trousers, a white shirt and a black windbreaker with Tideway written in turquoise. With public outrage, anger over some of Trumps policies and growing infighting, the alt-rights future is unclear. Last year, the alt-right, a hardline faction of the US far right, rallied behind Donald Trumps campaign and celebrated his electoral victory. In turn, Trumps rhetoric often described by watchdog groups as dog-whistling racists energised the alt-right, which has grown into a loosely-knit coalition of white supremacists, white nationalist and neo-Nazis. Nine months into Trumps presidency, however, the alt-rights future is dotted with uncertainty as the movement remains embroiled in internal strife, and as it breaks from its enthusiastic support of the president and the policies it now views as a betrayal. Shane Burley, author of Fascism Today: What It Is and How to End It, explained that the alt-rights ideological contradictions with comparably mainstream Trump supporters have been heightened by recent events. It would be really hard to see how they [the alt-right] could continue those relationships at this point, Burley told Al Jazeera. In September, the latest phase of complications between comparably mainstream Trump supporters and the hardliners in the alt-right erupted when the president decided to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in March 2018. Created by former President Barack Obama in 2012, DACA is a federal government programme that allows children who entered the US without documents to temporarily remain, work and study in the country. As part of a deal with the Democratic Party opposition, Trump said that his administration is searching for a way to allow DACA recipients known as Dreamers to stay in the country without giving them citizenship or amnesty. Trump stopped short of immediately repealing the programme, giving Congress six months to come up with a political solution before DACA officially ends next year. In late September, Richard Spencer, the white supremacist who coined the term alt-right in 2008, led a march outside the White House, where he and his supporters decried Trumps DACA decision as not strict enough. For them, anything less than a full repeal and deportation falls short. {articleGUID} Spencer, who heads the Virginia-based National Policy Institute, was joined by members of Identity Evropa, a white supremacist organisation that was established in March 2016. Donald Trump, we are ready to dream again, but you need to become who you are, Spencer bellowed through a loudspeaker, flanked on both sides by supporters holding up a banner. You need to be the nationalist populist that you presented [yourself to] the world as, Spencer said. Accusing Trump of becoming a mainstream Republican, Spencer continued, We cannot support you if you are going to support DACA. We will not support you if you are going to support DACA. Spencers anger was a far cry from the jubilance he displayed at a conference following Trumps election when he proclaimed to an audience of some 200 people: Hail Trump! Hail victory! Hail our people! Several attendees rose to their feet and performed Nazi-like salutes. Yet, even before Trumps backroom deals on DACA, much of the alt-right had found ample reason to criticise the president, from US intervention in the Middle East to the appointment of establishment conservatives in his administration. What did they expect? The more ideological, career-oriented ones, such as Richard Spencer, will really be pushing against Trump in a lot of ways, Burley said. They by to push through a white nationalist agenda. Hes not going to, and I dont think they were blind to that.] According to Burley, the alt-rights support for the president was always belied by a glaring contradiction between Trumps civic nationalism and the movements white nationalism. I think that the alt-rightists who are more honest will say Trump was basically just holding the door open and that they were hoping that [Trumps policies and their politics] would line up enough, he explained. Despite this, the alt-right has continued to be a vocal proponent of Trumps anti-immigration policies, including the presidents revised travel ban which is set to take effect this week. Anti-Semitism as the backbone Yet, the relationship has endured ups and downs, with many on the alt-right decrying Trumps appointment of Jews in his administration. Among the Jewish officials Trump has installed are his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who serves as a senior adviser and Gary Cohn, an investment banker, who is director of the National Economic Council. Daryl Lamont Jenkins, an anti-fascist researcher and founder of the Philadelphia-based One Peoples Project, explained that anti-Semitism is the backbone of their movement. In April, alt-rightists, many of whom describe themselves as anti-interventionists, expressed outrage over the US bombing of a Syrian airbase. Spencer and others held an anti-war demonstration in Washington, DC, after that military operation, announcing their support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. For many in the alt-right, that raid symbolised Trumps merger with neoconservative wings of the Republican Party and the supposed takeover of his administration by the Jewish establishment. More recently, segments of the alt-right have vocally opposed Trumps threats to carry out a military attack against North Korea. Cas Mudde, author of The Far Right in America, explained that the alt-right has never truly embraced Trump but sees him as the best available vehicle to promote their racist and white nationalist agenda. {articleGUID} Mudde, who is an associate professor in the School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Georgia, added: That wont change because of these policy changes, although they will be even more cautious and partial in their support. Meanwhile, as the divide grew, the alt-right, which had at one point been largely confined to online outlets and social media, has made a concerted effort to build a more formidable presence in the streets. In April, alt-rightists flocked to Berkeley, California, to join brawls between Trump supporters and anti-fascists, known colloquially as Antifa. Identity Evropa leader Nathan Damigo was caught on tape sucker-punching a female anti-fascist during those rallies. The video, which went viral on social media, was celebrated by alt-rightists. At the time, it appeared that the alt-right was becoming increasingly capable of exerting influence on more mainstream grassroots pro-Trump protests, and it rallied at the same events as the alt-light, a comparably moderate movement that rejects the alt-rights openly white supremacist politics but shared many of its sentiments. How did Charlottesville change things? A turning point came in August, however, when hundreds of white supremacists and neo-Nazis from across the US descended on Charlottesville, Virginia, seeking to outdo a previous demonstration against the citys decision to remove a Confederate statue in May. In the run-up to that event dubbed Unite the Right it became clear that the hard core of the alt-right would set the tone. Groups like the National Socialist Movement and Vanguard America, a neo-Nazi organisation, had announced their plans to attend. The neo-Confederate League of the South and the Traditionalist Worker Party, headed by self-professed fascist Matthew Heimbach, urged their supporters to make the trek to Charlottesville. Many alt-light groups issued public disavowals of the alt-right before that rally. Gavin McInnes, a media personality who founded the Proud Boys, an ultra-nationalist mens fraternity, said he wouldnt attend. Alt-light social media figures such as Jack Prosebiec and Mike Cernovich denounced Unite the Right and publicly distanced themselves from the participants. On August 11, the night before the rally, a large mob of white supremacists carrying torches marched on the University of Virginia campus chanting blood and soil and Jews will not replace us. Confronted by a small group of anti-racist students, the marchers attacked them with their torches until police eventually intervened. The next day, after the protests permit was pulled and Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe declared a state of emergency, the alt-right rally participants swarmed the streets and clashed with community members, anti-racists and anti-fascists. {articleGUID} That afternoon, 20-year-old James Alex Fields, who had been photographed marching with Vanguard America earlier in the day, allegedly ploughed his car into an anti-racist march, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring 19 others. Following Heyers killing, Republicans and Democrats both roundly condemned the alt-right. Web hosting services booted alt-right websites offline, and social media outlets cancelled accounts belonging to several of the movements groups and prominent figures. In Florida, Texas and elsewhere, cities and universities refused to provide permits for alt-right events. The backlash from groups that once claimed to be part of the alt-right was also widespread. McInnes, who had previously said the Proud Boys were part of the alt-right, lashed out at Unite the Right organiser Jason Kessler, who described himself as both a member of the Proud Boys and an advocate of the alt-right. We disavow the alt-right; Proud Boys are not alt-right, he said at the time during an episode of his Rebel Media YouTube show, which has since been discontinued. McInnes went on to describe Fields as a terrorist and murderer. McInnes deemed Kessler as a spy who is disingenuous, claiming that the former journalist had attempted to infiltrate the Proud Boys and undermine the groups legitimacy. Disagreements were also rife among the solid core of the alt-right. When Kessler took to Twitter to describe the late Heyer as a fat, disgusting communist and insinuated she was to blame for her own killing, Spencer called on alt-rightists to no longer associate with him. Heyers death was deeply saddening, Spencer wrote on Twitter. Payback is a morally reprehensible idea. Meanwhile, some alt-rightists celebrated Trumps weak condemnation of their movement, which he said included some very fine people. In Trumps comments, anti-racists saw something more insidious: the president had reserved the bulk of his ire for anti-fascists, who he described as the alt-left. David Duke, former Imperial Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, and Andrew Anglin, an author at the neo-Nazi Daily Stormer blog, said the president had essentially declared his support for the alt-right and its allies. Writing on Twitter, Duke thanked Trump for condemning the leftist terrorists that make up the Black Lives Matter civil rights movement and Antifa. Anglin wrote: People saying he cucked are shills and k*kes. He did the opposite of cuck. He refused to even mention anything to do with us. When reporters were screaming at him about white nationalism, he just walked out of the room. Yet, the massive outcry over the presidents comments demonstrated that, in a matter of months, the alt-right went from being viewed as having played a pivotal role in Trumps election to the most marginalised it had been in the last two years. Can the alt-right bounce back? According to Mudde, Charlottesville was an exception, alluding to the pathetic turnout at successor rallies. Trump has given them the most momentum that they've seen in a generation, so they are not going to abandon him just yet. by Daryl Lamonte Jenkins, founder of One People's Project He pointed to the participation of more traditional neo-Confederate and neo-Nazi groups at Unite the Right, who he says arent really part of the so-called alt-right. Their participation has intensified public anger, especially in the wake of Heyers killing. More difficult still, several participants have since been doxxed a term used to describe posting ones personal information, such as name, address and employer online and several lost their jobs. Others became maligned in their communities. Many new so-called alt-right supporters will not come again after having been doxxed or out of fear of being doxxed, Mudde concluded. Earlier this month, Spencer and around 40 of his supporters returned to Charlottesville to hold a flash rally that lasted around 10 minutes. Elsewhere, far-right protests have been massively outnumbered by their anti-fascist counterparts. A week after Charlottesville, an estimated 15,000 counter-demonstrators drowned out the chants of some 200 far-right protesters in Boston, Massachusetts. Against this backdrop, it remains unclear whether this public backlash against the alt-right, the infighting among its ranks and the intense marginalisation, are obstacles the movement can overcome. Factions of the far right who distanced themselves from the chaos of Charlottesville have tried to remake their movement under the banner of the new right. Vanguard America, one of the groups that played a prominent role in the violence, renamed itself as Patriot Front. One Peoples Projects Daryl Lamont Jenkins expects that the exercise in rebranding is bound to fail. The alt-right may raise its voice against decisions Trump has implemented, but it has few options, Jenkins said. [Trump] is still for them the best hope. They knew he wasnt going to be 100 percent on board, and they have been happy with him going as far as he did, he concluded. They have nowhere else to go. Trump has given them the most momentum that theyve seen in a generation, so they are not going to abandon him just yet. Follow Patrick Strickland on Twitter: @P_Strickland_ In the early hours of Monday, two regular Iraqi divisions, supported by thousands of combatants from the Federal Police and Counter Terrorism Service, began a two-pronged offensive against Kurdish-held Kirkuk, seeking to reclaim the disputed city more than three years after Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) fled it in the face of an assault by the Islamic State of the Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), also known as ISIS. A little more than 12 hours later, the ISF managed to restore their control over the oil-rich city where they have been absent for years, severely upsetting Kurdish plans for independence. Very early in the operation, the Iraqi military announced that it had taken over the K1 military base and the nearby Kirkuk Air Base west of the city. This was denied by the Kurdistan Region Security Council, which said in a statement that the Peshmerga destroyed at least five US-made Humvee armoured vehicles being used by the state-sanctioned, but Iran-sponsored, militias from the Popular Mobilisation Forces, or Hashd al-Shaabi in Arabic. However, by late afternoon, Iraqi soldiers were taking photographs of themselves in the former governors office in downtown Kirkuk, and the national flag had replaced the Kurdish Regional Governments (KRG) over the city skyline. Kurdish factionalism undermines independence bid The Iraqi militarys advance was apparently facilitated by factionalism within the ranks of the Peshmerga, a force whose flaws have now been laid bare. The Taza Khormatu district southeast of Kirkuk was surrendered after Peshmerga units loyal to KRG President Masoud Barzanis rivals in the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) the late Jalal Talabanis party withdrew from their areas of responsibility. These units with partisan loyalties also withdrew from their headquarters in Qasbat al-Bashir, 20 kilometres south of Kirkuk, three days before the offensive began, and without a single shot being fired. {articleGUID} PUK officials said that they handed back military bases as there was a deal to surrender them to Baghdad before ISIL overran the region in 2014. Barzanis Kurdistan Democratic Party, however, will see the decision by the PUK to withdraw its fighters from major approaches to the city as handing the enemy the keys to the city gate. Hemin Hawrami, senior assistant to Barzani, tweeted that the PUK had betrayed Kurdistan and [the Peshmerga] by abandoning key fronts, accusing them of being part of an offensive that he said was being led by Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Making matters potentially worse for Barzani was the appearance of flags belonging to the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, who are blacklisted as a terrorist organisation by the United States, the EU, and most importantly in this conflict neighbouring Turkey. Turkey, who has fought the PKK domestically for decades, was incensed at their former ally Barzani and the alleged presence of PKK fighters in Kirkuk was denounced by the Iraqi government as a declaration of war. Although the allegation was swiftly denied by the KRG on Sunday, the Turkish Foreign Ministry pledged on Monday that it would work with Baghdad to help destroy PKK elements in Kirkuk. After all, the Peshmerga are largely equipped with US-made weapons, while the Iraqi military is also currently using American-made M1 Abrams tanks and heavy artillery against the Kurds. by However, one cannot help but suspect that Baghdads focus on a PKK presence is for Turkish consumption. After all, it was only very recently that the Iraqi government was at loggerheads with Turkey over its military base in Bashiqa in northern Iraq, and Baghdad has tolerated PKK affiliates such as the Yazidi YBS on its border with Syria. Baghdad and its allied militias have had long enough to contain or even defeat these PKK affiliates, yet have done nothing until now. Their sudden action is designed to appeal to sentiments in Ankara, its latest unlikely ally in the wake of the Kurdish independence referendum last month, who will also be seeking to use an alleged PKK presence to garner public support for moving against their one-time ally Barzani. US may reset Iraq to pre-ISIL stage The KRG has also attempted to characterise this offensive as an Iranian-led operation due to US President Donald Trumps refusal to certify the Iranian nuclear deal and call for tougher sanctions against its elite military wing, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) on Saturday. This demonstrates a lack of Kurdish confidence in the United States willingness to intervene on the KRGs behalf, and a desire to get Washington back on board with the Kurds, especially considering the Peshmergas assistance to the US-led anti-ISIL coalition. So far, however, the Pentagon has only stated that it encourages dialogue between the belligerents, and desired the parties not to undertake any destabilising actions that distract from the fight against ISIS. This statement was certainly not what Erbil was hoping for, especially as the US went on to state that it continued to support a unified Iraq, and characterised the independence referendum as an unfortunate and unilateral move. {articleGUID} With Washingtons lack of desire to intervene, it is possible that American strategists were willing for the Iraqi military to advance to recapture Kirkuk before moving onto other disputed territories under the KRGs de facto but not de jure control. That said, it is extremely unlikely that the US will allow Baghdad to reassert its control over the autonomous Kurdish region as a whole, but will likely exert pressure on both sides to stop fighting once Baghdads and Erbils positions have been reset to a pre-2014 state of affairs before ISIL burst onto the scene. After all, the Peshmerga are largely equipped with US-made weapons, while the Iraqi military is also currently using American-made M1 Abrams tanks and heavy artillery against the Kurds. Without US support, the Peshmerga was easily overwhelmed and may soon also be forced to the negotiating table to concede defeat and nullify their independence vote. Equally, without American supplies, and with the threat of other measures against Baghdad especially considering Iranian involvement, the Iraqi military is unlikely to advance far beyond Kirkuk. With such regional and international forces being brought to bear against Barzanis ambition for an independent Kurdistan, and with the crushing loss of oil-rich Kirkuk as well, it seems that the Kurdish leader will have to sue for peace. Unfortunately for those who voted Yes in last months independence poll, this will mean that, for now at least, their dream may have to remain just that. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy. As al-Qaeda-linked rebels withdraw, reprisal attacks and human rights abuses are reported in the north. BAMAKO, Mali Many of Malis northerners have been liberated of the armed groups that invaded their communities and imposed upon them a harsh form of Islamic law. However, with growing evidence of reprisal killings and raids targeting Tuareg and Arabs based on their ethnicity, whole communities now have something new to fear collective punishment. The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH by its French acronym), told Al Jazeera it has confirmed at least 11 executions, and is investigating dozens of other cases. Florent Geel, head of the Africa desk, said the victims were suspected of being supporters or members of the armed groups. The killings took place in the garrison town of Sevare on January 9 and 10. At least three of the victims were killed inside the military base, while others were killed in a hospital and at a bus stop, Geel said. At least two Tuareg men were also executed in the central town of Niono, both the FIDH and Human Rights Watch (HRW) have confirmed. HRW has spoken with an eyewitness who saw the two men were taken from their homes at around midday on January 18, and executed within the compound where they live shortly after. Their killers were wearing Mali army uniforms and driving military vehicles, she said. This appears to be a targeted killing by security forces, Tirana Hassan, an emergency researcher for HRW, told Al Jazeera. Tuareg and Arab civilians are terrified of being hunted down as their community suffers collective punishment for its perceived support for the armed groups, she said. Theres a history of reprisals, she said, adding that the national authorities should have done more to educate the public and the security forces to avoid ethnic tensions, particularly given the likelihood that this conflict could become a protracted one. Historic Mistrust Dont ask me about the dead. Im concerned with the living, Col. Diaran Kone, Head of Malis Military Press office Large numbers of Tuareg in the army have defected in recent years, many of them accused of being spies for the the Liberation Army of Azawad (MNLA). The authorities have set up a hotline where anyone can inform on people they believe are acting suspiciously. And pro-government militia have gathered lists of people they accuse of having links to both the groups, and the MNLA. The FIDHs said that while there might be genuine cases of infiltration, the authorities needed to respect human rights principles in the way they treated any suspects. The nature of this war is asymmetric, with civilians who look like fighters and fighters who look like civilians, Geel said. Colonel Diaran Kone, head of the Malian militarys press office, refused to discuss any details of either civilians or Malian soldiers killed in the fighting. Dont ask me about the dead. Im concerned with the living, he told Al Jazeera in an interview at the ministry of defence in Bamako. He dismissed concerns that, given the nature of guerrilla warfare, the armed forces might have trouble distinguishing civilians from members of the armed groups. We only have one enemy [here in Mali]; terrorists and terrorism, he said. As long as a single terrorist is alive, humanity will not be happy. That means eliminating all terrorists and all forms of terrorism. The French military are not currently giving interviews in Bamako and were unavailable for comment. Catch-22 Mohammed Agata, an craftsman from a small village 25km south of Timbuktu brought his family south three weeks ago, fleeing the imminent fighting. The soldiers dont know who is who. People were already afraid of the government, he said, referring to previous government crackdowns against the Tuareg. French drones had been flying over the area nightly since October, and he feared that the when the armed forces came to oust the armed groups, civilians might also become targets. Like many Tuareg, Agatas family has suffered under the harsh interpretation of Islamic law imposed by the armed men who took control of their town last April. The newcomers were aversive to many aspects of Tuareg culture, outlawing their music, some types of traditional clothing and forbidding traditional cross-like symbols which appear in many of their artifacts. The flow of tourists to Timbuktu came to an abrupt halt, destroying his main source of income. Agatas brother was given ten lashes after the usurpers caught him smoking. Now that he has come to Bamako, he is being treated with suspicion by many southerners. He is too afraid to wear his traditional Tuareg clothing outside his home, although he cannot hide his fair skin. People in the area where he is staying keep coming in to his home to keep an eye on him. Tuareg are a minority in Mali, particularly in the south of the country. There have been dozens of cases of Tuareg living in Bamako being intimidated and having their houses looted by security forces in the week of January 14, according to the FIDH. Too late? The Malian authorities have been calling on the international community to help providing training and equipment to its armed forces since early 2012, as it faced an enemy with superior arms and experience. Western and African governments refused to provide it with arms or any form of training after a coup detat in March 2012, insisting instead that Mali accept foreign intervention. Now that French and ECOWAS troops have arrived on Malian soil, the European Union has agreed to provide the training, with a team of European experts due to arrive in mid-February. That training will probably include a human rights component, Al Jazeera learned in a briefing by General Francois LeCointre on Wednesday. For the victims of the wave of reprisals currently taking place across the country, that training will come too late. You can follow Yasmine Ryan on Twitter Chinas ruling communist party is set to hold a congress where delegates will choose political leaders in what could be a government shake-up. Chinas ruling communist party is set to hold a congress where delegates will choose political leaders in what could be a government shake-up. President Xi Jinping is expected to map out his ambitions for China and further tighten his grip on power. The congress comes after a wide anti-corruption drive that has seen more than 1.4 million officials sacked and a major overhaul of the military. Al Jazeeras Adrian Brown reports from Beijing. A critic of Rwandan President Paul Kagame asked him to free her and her detained mother and sister as she stood in court on Monday charged with forgery and inciting insurrection. Diane Shima Rwigara, who was barred from running against Kagame in August elections, moved to comfort her mother Adeline and sister Anne as they cried during the hearing. I request the president release me and my family, she said. She told the court she was being victimised because I have political ambitions. The 35-year-old accountant is accused of faking the registration papers she filed to stand in the election that Kagame went on to win with 98.8 percent of the vote. Rwigara has regularly said Kagame stifles dissent and has criticised the Rwandan Patriotic Fronts (RPF) tight grip on power since it fought its way to power to end a genocide in 1994. In court, Rwigara said the government had threatened and attempted to silence her family and supporters since she announced her plan to contest the presidency in May. Some of the supporters were told that they would be accused of working with terror groups. Some were tortured, Rwigara said. Prosecutor Michel Nshimiyimana told the court that he had 70 witnesses who would prove that Rwigara faked their signatures. He said some of the signatures belonged to dead people. Diane said she was being prosecuted because of her political ambitions but we have 70 witnesses. They said they didnt sign for her nor did they know her, he told the court. Rwigaras mother and sister are also charged with inciting insurrection. The prosecution on Monday played audio clips and videos that it said recorded the mother talking to relatives abroad and accusing the Rwandan government of killing its people. The familys defence lawyer said the conversations were private and did not constitute crimes. Last week, Rwigaras mother and sister told the court all three of them had been tortured and deprived of food while held in jail awaiting trial. They said they were handcuffed day and night and kept in solitary confinement. Their lawyer, Buhuru Pierre Celestin, told the court then that their confinement violated international conventions, while prosecutors said that the defendants rights were respected. The trial will resume on Wednesday. Philippine president says rehabilitation can begin but military general says dozens of fighters battle on. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared a southern city liberated from terrorist influence a day after government troops killed two top commanders of an armed alliance linked to ISIL. Duterte made the announcement on Tuesday despite a military general saying dozens of fighters, including foreign nationals, were still battling Philippine troops in Marawi. I hereby declare Marawi city liberated from the terrorist influence. That marks the beginning of rehabilitation, he said during a visit to the city. {articleGUID} The president did not indicate when he will lift the martial law declaration he issued for the entire island of Mindanao when fighting broke out in May. Brigadier-General Restituto Padilla, an army spokesman, told reporters the military operation in Marawi would continue until armed elements are dealt with. Padilla said between 20 to 30 fighters, who he referred to as stragglers, remain. It is believed they are holding at least 20 hostages. Reports said a Malaysian doctor, Mahmud Ahmad identified as a financial backer of the group was also on the run. Al Jazeera correspondent Jamela Alindogan, reporting from Marawi, confirmed there were still pockets of fighting in the beleaguered city. On Monday, Isnilon Hapilon top commander of the Abu Sayyaf group and Omarkhayam Maute of the Maute group, as well as seven of their fighters, were killed during a major assault on their hideout. During that operation, about 17 hostages were also reportedly rescued by the military. Both Abu Sayyaf and Maute had declared allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS), later joining forces to rampage through the university town in Mindanao. The five-month battle of Marawi has killed more than 1,000 people and displaced as many as 600,000 while levelling the historic city. Richard Heydarian, a political analyst, said the success of the Philippine military could be partly attributed to assistance from US special forces, which provided intelligence as well as equipment during the fighting. Australia, China, and Russia also provided military hardware to Philippine troops. The Philippines can now claim that the threat of an Islamic state is under control, Heydarian said, though he warned fighters could shift to pinpoint attacks on government forces as well as civilians. While the deaths of Hapilon and Maute and the declared liberation of Marawi dealt a major blow to the rebellion in Mindanao, a retired general criticised the governments handling of the operation. In an interview with Al Jazeera, the former military official, who asked not to be named, said the fighters practically held the nation and military hostage for several months. The Marawi conflict proved to be a serious challenge to the government and its security apparatus and has grave implications for the Philippines war against terrorism, he said. {articleGUID} Meanwhile, Marawi residents told Al Jazeera that unless historical injustices against the impoverished Muslim communities are righted, the problem will persist. Alindogan reported it is likely that new leaders will emerge from the armed groups. If we look at the history of rebellion in the Philippines, death of leaders does not necessarily mean an end to the presence of these groups, she said. This is why peace negotiations with these groups are critical. The 19th National Congress begins on Tuesday but what does it mean for the country and the world? Chinas ruling Communist Party will begin its 19th National Congress on October 18. Chinas president and the partys general secretary, Xi Jinping, is expected to use the twice-a-decade event to consolidate his hold on power in the worlds second-largest economy. A wider government shake-up could also be on the agenda as a majority of the Communist Partys top decision-making body, the seven-member Politburo Standing Committee, are expected to retire during the meeting. Here are some of the key questions about the Congress, who it involves and why it matters: What is the National Congress? Held every five years since the 11th Communist Party of China (CCP) Congress in 1977 the year after Chairman Mao Zedongs death the National Congress draws together selected delegates from the CCPs membership base. Attendees are required to elect candidates to senior party positions, consider the general secretarys report, and decide on amendments to the CCPs constitution. While the meeting is the highlight of the Chinese political calendar, at which the general line for the CCP is established and celebrated, outcomes have already been decided before the event, according to Roderic Wye, associate fellow of the Asia programme at Chatham House. The Congress is a celebration of decisions that have already been taken that we dont know about from the outside [of the party], Wye told Al Jazeera. The week-long gathering is held in Beijing. Chinas new leaders will be unveiled at its conclusion, which is believed to be on October 25. How does it work? The Congress will bring together 2,287 CCP delegates to shape policy and decide on political positioning. Only those showing unshakable belief and the correct political stance are invited to attend, according to the government-owned newspaper China Daily. Xi will begin proceedings with his report at Beijings Great Hall of the People and will use the address to outline the partys priorities over the next five years. The report will then be studied during the Congress, though it is widely expected to be accepted and implemented by delegates without challenge. Delegates, representing an estimated 90 million party members nationwide, will also elect about 200 members to the CCPs Central Committee. {articleGUID} The committee is then tasked with appointing members to the 25-member Politburo, which in turn decides on membership of the seven-member Politburo Standing Committee that sits at the apex of Chinese politics. CCP attendees are also tasked with deciding on amendments to the partys constitution. Since its creation in 1922, the constitution has been changed at every Congress. What to look out for? Chinese politics and the workings of the CCP Congress are shrouded in secrecy. However, this event is likely to reveal the extent to which Xi has consolidated power since rising to the role of general secretary in November 2012. Elections and constitutional amendments decided at this summit are being watched closely by analysts for signs that the Chinese leader has tightened his grip at the helm of his party. Xi will almost certainly have attempted to exert his influence over the renewal process, Hongyi Lai, an associate professor of contemporary Chinese studies at the University of Nottingham, told Al Jazeera. It is widely expected that he will try to put in new leaders, ones that have supported him or that he has groomed over the last few years, Lai said. [And] its also likely that he will put Xi Jinping thought into the constitution. Appointments to the powerful Politburo Standing Committee will be of particular significance, potentially signifying Xis plans for a successor, or his intention to remain in power past Chinas current constitutional two-term limit. Up to five of its seven members of which Xi is one are expected to retire, having reached the age of 68. Wang Qishan, 69, is a current committee member and close political ally of Xi. Should he continue in his role, as the countrys anti-corruption chief, it may signal that Chinas leader is considering extending his own political life at the helm of the CCP past the next Congress, in 2022. At least on the surface, Xi has sowed himself more aggressively and obviously into the Chinese political system by Hongyi Lai, associate professor Xis expected move to write his own political philosophy in the CCP constitution may also indicate an intention to prolong his period in power. The amendment would elevate Xi to a constitutional status akin to Mao Zedong, founding member of the CCP and the Peoples Republic of China, and Deng Xiaoping. This signifies the extent of his influence in the Chinese political system, neither of his two immediate predecessors would have been able to do this at the end of their first terms, Lai said. At least on the surface, Xi has sowed himself more aggressively and obviously into the Chinese political system. What does this mean for China, and the world? Xis first five years at the top of Chinese politics have been characterised by consolidation of power as opposed to delivering his plans for reform revealed at the 18th CCP Congress. Upon assuming office in 2012, he promised to pursue new social and economic policies, including a crackdown on corruption and a reduction in bureaucracy. Should he be successful in extending his control over the CCP over the next week, Xi will be under pressure to finally implement such plans during his second term, Lai said. The burden is on him [Xi] to pursue new policy, and he may want to introduce reforms regarding the economy, society and governance, he said. In the second term, the burden is on him to deliver. On the international stage, however, this Congress is unlikely to alter the countrys approach under Xi which has seen China increasingly assert itself in global politics, according to Wye. I dont think we are expecting a sudden swerve in Chinese policy, but there will be a lot of attention given to the countrys One Belt and One Road initiative, he said. ISILs gains come as the Iraqi military continues its major operation to retake the oil-rich province of Kirkuk. The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group seized control of two villages west of Kirkuk following the retreat of Kurdish Peshmerga fighters from the area. The villages of Taweeliah and al-Maliha, in northwestern Dibis province, were under complete control by ISIL on Tuesday, an Al Jazeera correspondent based in Erbil quoted security sources as saying. ISIL infiltrated the villages from the desert of the Anbar and Salahuddin provinces, taking advantage of the security vacuum left by the Peshmergas retreat. Kurdish forces seized control of disputed areas in the provinces of Kirkuk, Nineveh, Diyala and Salahuddin when ISIL swept through northern Iraq in 2014 after the army collapsed. ISILs gains came as the Iraqi military continued its major operation to retake the oil-rich province of Kirkuk amid an escalating dispute in the wake of a controversial September 25 referendum on Kurdish secession that Baghdad declared illegal. On Monday, Iraqi forces easily took control of Kirkuk city after Kurdish fighters withdrew. Kurdish forces had previously vowed to defend Kirkuk, and for three days they were locked in an armed standoff with Iraqi government troops and allied Iranian-backed paramilitaries known as the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) on the outskirts of the city. The two main oil fields and facilities in Kirkuk province were now under the control of Iraqs Oil Ministry, a ministry spokesman said on Tuesday. The ministry now holds also oil wells and facilities in Kirkuk, Asim Cihad told Anadolu news agency. {articleGUID} Peshmerga forces on Tuesday also began to withdraw from Makhmur district southeast of Mosul in northern Iraq, according to a Kurdish military officer. Kurdish forces are moving their heavy equipment toward Erbil, Captain Taher Saadullah al-Duski told Anadolu. He said Iraqi government forces had not yet entered the district. Al-Duski did not give a reason for the Kurdish pullout from the area. Kurdish military officer Sirwan Khalil also said Peshmerga forces pulled out from the village of Kanhash in the historic city of Nimrud, southeast of Mosul. Signs of division have surfaced among the Iraqi Kurds two dominant factions, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). Iraqi forces also said on Tuesday they seized the Yazidi Kurdish town of Sinjar from the Peshmerga. The Iraqi army and Popular Mobilisation Forces entered the town of Sinjar after the Peshmerga withdrew without a fight, said the Hashed al-Shaabi, a paramilitary force made up largely of Iran-trained Shia militias. The northwestern town is infamous as the site of one of ISILs worst atrocities when it killed thousands of Yazidi men and abducted thousands of women and girls as sex slaves in 2014. Peshmerga forces pulled out of the area of Khanaqin, on the border with Iran, as Iraqi forces prepared to take over their positions, security sources told Reuters news agency. The daughter of an Al Jazeera journalist jailed by Egyptian authorities without charge has condemned the silence of the international media on his continued detention. Zahra Hussein, the daughter of Al Jazeera Arabic reporter, Mahmoud Hussein, said she felt let down that journalists have not covered her fathers plight more extensively. Tuesday marks 300 days since Hussein was detained in Cairo during a visit to see his family. He was later accused by authorities of spreading false news. Al Jazeera has rejected the accusations against Hussein and has called on Egypt to unconditionally release its journalist. The father of nine holds Egyptian nationality but was a resident of the Qatari capital, Doha, where the network is based. {articleGUID} Al Jazeera spoke to the younger Hussein about how her fathers arrest has impacted her ambitions of becoming a journalist, and about her fears that not enough has been done to draw attention to his case. Al Jazeera: You studied journalism yourself, how big of an influence was your father in your decision to pursue the subject? Zahra Hussein: I studied journalism and media at Cairo University and at the moment Im studying for a media translation diploma. I chose to go into the field because I was so influenced by my fathers work. As a child, I used to watch my father from behind the camera as he reported in the field and when I got older he used to take me with him around Egypt as he produced reports or filmed documentaries. I saw how he would reflect peoples emotions and feelings, their needs and their dreams. They let him go inside their minds and souls in order to express how they felt and that affected me. I knew then that was what I wanted to do; I wanted to be what my father was. I wanted to help people; I wanted to reflect their emotions. I wanted their voices to reach as far it is possible. When I was studying media in school, whenever I went into the streets holding my camera, I would notice people hoping for a space to speak out and to express themselves, to tell the world that they existed. Al Jazeera: Do you have any particular memory of your fathers work that youre proud of? Hussein: As a young girl, I was so proud just to see my father on TV. I used to walk to school, and people in my village would say Oh look thats Mahmoud Husseins daughter, her father is on TV. But it wasnt only that; I felt proud because Ive seen his reporting change the lives of people whether that was in the revolutionary squares of Syria, Egypt, or Libya. I used to love watching the respect and admiration the people around him would show when he told them that he was a reporter working for Al Jazeera. I remember one of his reports where he was working in a big crowd and beads of sweat were streaming down his face. The people around him started to dab away the sweat from his face. They respected him so much that they were helping him live on camera. My favourite story about my dad is about this time he was in Darfur in Sudan, where he was producing a short documentary about a very poor village there. The central character of the film was a young Sudanese boy, who at the end of the production was so touched by my father that he told him that he loved him. He said, My entire life I havent heard a kind voice and I believe you will make people hear my story. The boy sang a song for my father, which they featured in the film. Even now I find myself singing it in my mind. Al Jazeera: How has your fathers arrest affected your ambition to pursue journalism? Hussein: I was training to be a reporter with an Egyptian TV channel, but when my father got arrested, I was fired. State TV channels were airing videos about my father where they accused him of being a terrorist and spy. They also disseminated information about me, my siblings and other relatives, including details about where we live and our ages. Our pictures were also spread across the internet and television channels. When my boss saw my name and my fathers videos, without a seconds thought, he told me that he could not have the daughter of such a man working with them. {articleGUID} So right now, Im not working, and Ive stopped pursuing this dream, but I hope its not a definite thing. I do as much translation work from home as possible but a lot of my time is consumed visiting my father in prison and looking after my sisters and brothers. Al Jazeera: How are your siblings coping? Hussein: I have six sisters and two brothers. They were not coping well with this situation at first, and in the beginning, we didnt tell the younger ones the whole truth about what was happening. Of course, when they went to school, the students and teachers would bring it up and would tell them that they had seen our father on TV and ask whether he was a terrorist. They would ask questions like, Why did your father want to harm his country? Why does he work with Al Jazeera to help destroy his homeland? They were shocked, and they came home crying, asking did my father really do this, am I a bad person because my father is a terrorist? Of course, I explained to them that not everything on TV is true and not everything people say is true and that our father is an honest man and a professional journalist. It took me a while to convince them to go back to school but they still face this social stigma, and they cant run away from it. My eldest sister is studying in France and feels depressed that she cant get any organisation to take an interest in our fathers case. Al Jazeera: Do you think journalists have done enough to shine a light on your fathers plight? Hussein: The world media has done nothing to help my fathers case, their silence is honestly freaking me out. Ive always had this image of the international media jumping on human rights cases like this, but the silence is deafening. I cant express how angry I am, whenever I send anything to any organisation asking for them to help us and to support our case, I get nothing, absolutely nothing. At the beginning of this struggle, I only saw one or two reports about my father and then nothing, not a single word about him. These journalists dont care about a 51-year-old man with nine children, who is spending each and every hour wondering what hes done to deserve what hes going through. What has my father done to spend 300 days sleeping on the floor of a dirty cell with insects and cold weather? What has he done to deserve having a person watch over his every move? The international media has failed us, and we have been in pain each and every hour for 300 days, In Europe and the US, dont they always speak about human rights and freedoms? Now Ive found they mean nothing; they are only words because if they held meaning, they would act. I just wish one or two journalists would ask, what about Mahmoud Hussein, what about the other Mahmoud Husseins? This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. Mohamed Hassan is a gravedigger at Barakat cemetery on the outskirts of the Somali capital, Mogadishu. Hassan, 50, describes the difficulty of burying missing limbs blown off by the Saturday truck explosion in Mogadishu that left at least 300 dead, more than 300 others injured and 100 more still missing. The blast at a busy junction in downtown Mogadishu was the deadliest in the East African countrys history. Hassan spoke to Al Jazeeras Hamza Mohamed. At around 1pm we left the cemetery because there was no work. Burials usually happen during the morning. Then I heard a very loud explosion. That morning, we had no work to do because there was no death. Normally we bury one person a day. On a very busy day, we bury two people. It is not a lot of work for the seven of us that work in this cemetery. But from the sound of the explosion, we knew we will be busy. It was like an earthquake but very loud. We all came back to work and started preparing fresh graves. Usually when something happens, we dont wait for the relatives to ask us to dig the grave. When people come, we already have one or two graves ready. We thought maybe the most we will receive will be five people to bury. Our cemetery is not the biggest and it is a bit of a distance from the city, so most people go to other cemeteries. Then the bodies started arriving. The explosion happened Saturday afternoon, and we received the first body at around 6am Sunday morning. I remember very clearly. The corpse had no head and was missing a hand. It looked like an old man. But I could be wrong. The head was blown off. It came to us from the hospital. We were asked to bury it. No one knows who it was. How do you identify a corpse with no head? Myself I buried 17 people. Some were just body parts wrapped in a cloth. I have been working as a gravedigger for eight years and never seen anything like it. I have lived in Mogadishu my whole life and even during the civil war it was not that bad. Im 50 years old and this is the worst I have come across. My colleagues have also said the same thing. I dont know how many they managed to bury, but we have been working non-stop since Saturday afternoon. When you are a gravedigger, you think you have seen everything and nothing will upset you. But talking about what I saw brings tears to my eyes, makes me very emotional. I hope I never have to see anything like it again. Pyongyangs deputy UN ambassador says his country is aware of a secret operation to remove the Norths leadership. North Koreas deputy UN ambassador has warned the situation on the Korean Peninsula has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment. Kim In-ryong told the UN General Assemblys disarmament committee on Monday that North Korea is the only country in the world that has been subjected to such an extreme and direct nuclear threat from the United States since the 1970s and said the country has the right to possess nuclear weapons in self-defence. He pointed to large-scale military exercises every year using nuclear assets and said what is more dangerous is what he called a US plan to stage a secret operation aimed at the removal of our supreme leadership. This year, Kim said, North Korea completed its state nuclear force and thus became the full-fledged nuclear power which possesses the delivery means of various ranges, including the atomic bomb, H-bomb and intercontinental ballistic rockets. The entire US mainland is within our firing range and if the US dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch, it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe, he warned. READ MORE: Trump on North Korea: Only one thing will work Kims speech follows escalating threats between North Korea and the United States, and increasingly tough UN sanctions. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the North Korean crisis will continue until the first bomb drops. Kim told the UNs disarmament committee the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea North Koreas official name hoped for a nuclear-free world, but reiterated the country would never surrender its nuclear capabilities. Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the US is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiating table under any circumstances, Kim said. The US is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, Deputy Secretary of State John J Sullivan said on Tuesday after Kim made his comments. Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks, Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst should diplomacy fail. Anger grows with the jailing of Jordi Cuixart and Jordi Sanchez but Spanish minister says justice is functioning. Barcelona, Spain Catalan protesters in Barcelona are calling for the release of two men they consider the first political prisoners in their quest for independence. Jordi Cuixart of Omnium Cultural and Jordi Sanchez of the National Catalan Assembly (ANC) were imprisoned without bail in Madrid on Monday, pending a trial on charges of sedition in relation to their separatist organising efforts. They are political prisoners, Jordi Graupera, a Catalan author and postdoctoral researcher at Princeton, told Al Jazeera. They are being punished for being successful in their peaceful resistance strategy. Omnium and the ANC are grassroots organisations that have long assisted in pro-independence campaigns, including the disputed October 1 referendum on Catalan independence. On Monday night in Barcelona, people banged pots and pans outside their windows in protest. On Tuesday, a city-wide stop in work began at midday in a show of solidarity. By Tuesday evening, a group of 50 people, comprised of two separate organising committees (CDRs), marched towards the Spanish delegation in Barcelona. Their number seemed to grow with each block as they chanted Freedom for Sanchez and Cuixart! Anna Martinez, one of the CDR organisers, said she never thought the Spanish government would take political prisoners. Its shocking. The situation has become very serious, Martinez told Al Jazeera. Joan Folch lived in France for 24 years and moved back in September because of the political situation. He said he was outraged by the imprisonment of the pro-Independence leaders. Everyday the Spanish government gives us more reasons to continue the struggle, Folch said. The group of 50 met with a larger block of protesters at the beginning of Diagonal, one of Barcelonas main thoroughfares. Though the demonstration is blocking the traffic, drivers honked in support. Folch said the Catalan national movement is unique in that it has support from the political left to right. By the time the CDRs and other groups reached the Spanish delegation, their numbers were in the thousands. Demonstrators halted in front of the delegation and lit candles. Chants of Freedom rang out intermittently. Putting everyone in their place Spanish Justice Minister Rafael Catala said the Catalan leaders imprisonment represented the normal functioning of Spanish justice, adding, we can talk about prison policy, but not political prisoners. Xavier Garcia Albiol, leader of Catalonias ruling right-wing Popular Party, applauded the decision to imprison Cuixart and Sanchez. Rule of law ends up putting everyone in their place, he tweeted. But Josep Costa, a professor of political science at Barcelonas Universitat Pompeu Fabra, said the imprisonment marked another episode showing the complete breakdown of rule of law in Spain. Its the government filing the charges and seeking the imprisonment of political opponents, Costa said. Standoff The imprisonment of Cuixart and Sanchez is the latest development in a heightening political crisis in Spain. The Spanish constitutional court ruled the October 1 Catalan referendum unlawful, with Madrid ordering police to stop the poll while respecting voters. But Spanish National Police and the Civil Guard, a military body tasked with law enforcement, used excessive force to stop the vote, according to rights groups. Catalans voted to secede from Spain, but turnout was reportedly lower than 50 percent. On October 10, Carles Puigdemont, Catalan president, declared an independent Catalan state and then suspended the effects of the declaration. He says his intent was to foster dialogue with Madrid. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy then gave him until Monday morning to clarify whether or not independence was declared., warning that he would enact Article 155. Referred to as the nuclear option, Article 155 of the Spanish constitution has never been used before and allows the central government to take control of Catalonias regional government. Puigdemont responded Monday with an offer of two months of dialogue, but failed to clarify the stance on independence. Madrid has extended the ultimatum until Thursday morning. The central government has reiterated its warning that if Puigdemont does not clarify his stance by this deadline, Article 155 will be enacted. Rights groups call bill that would require individuals receiving public services to show their face islamophobic. Rights groups have slammed proposed legislation in Quebec that would prohibit individuals from wearing face coverings while receiving public services as Islamophobic and anti-Muslim. The bill, which is expected to be voted on as early as Tuesday, would require all government employees and any individual receiving a public service to show their face, prohibiting all garments that cover the face. This is nothing new, there is certainly deja vu that we have seen this debate for seven years in Quebec, and more broadly in Canada Ihsaan Gardee, executive director of the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), told Al Jazeera. Bill 62 was first introduced in 2015, but did not create momentum in parliament. In August, liberal Minister of Justice Stephanie Vallee proposed amendments to the bill at the National Assembly. Vallee said that the proposed legislation establishes the neutrality of the Quebec government and its institutions with the objectives of ensuring effective communication, necessary identification and security. It remains unclear how the bill would be implemented and the specific cases it would apply to, but Muslim groups fear it would prohibit women from wearing face coverings not only in government buildings, but also on public transit. Experts and rights organisations have called the bill racist, Islamophobic and discriminatory, asserting that it has invented a solution for a made-up problem. According to studies conducted by Environics Research, the majority of Muslim women in Canada do not cover their faces, and of those who do so, only a small minority wears the niqab, or the full body and face covering. {articleGUID} However, Gardee said the NCCM has observed a significant rise and increase in anti-Muslim sentiment and Islamophobia throughout Canada. He added that from 2012-2015, according to Statistics Canada data, there was a 253 percent increase in police-reported hate crimes against Canadian Muslims. Gardee said the rhetoric by Quebecs government only serves to vilify, marginalise and stigmatise a segment of the Muslim community. Religious accommodation? Bill 62, which has been dubbed by some as the Burqa Ban, does include a clause that allows individuals to request an exemption for religious reasons. Critics argue, however, that it is unclear how the process for such exemptions would be analysed and implemented. According to local media, Vallee said that the bill sets out general rules that will serve as a framework for the analysis of requests for religious accommodation and that answers to the requests will have to consider the principles of the bill, [and] will also have to consider the imperatives of communication. Shane Martinez, a social justice and human rights lawyer, told Al Jazeera that the government has it backwards. {articleGUID} The onus is on the state to justify the constitutionality of the legislation, the onus should not be on members of society to go begging the government for an accommodation under a racist law. Martinez, who believes the bill will pass, called it sad and ironic and said it serves to play off of nationalism and exploit ignorance for the sake of political gains, mirroring whats happening south of the border in the US and a throwback to what happened in France seven years ago when the European country banned the face veil. He added that the bill and its clauses are blatant violations of Quebec and Canadian Human Rights and Freedom Charters and will most likely be defeated in court. B latantly discriminatory According to Quebecs government, the neutrality of the bill is a central component that reflects the widely-celebrated secular nature of the French-speaking province. But opponents argue, the bill contradicts such principles. Emmett Macfarlane, a political science professor at the University of Waterloo, said the bill is a perversion of secularism because inherently it is not neutral. It is actually targeting specific religious practices and neutral would be allowing people to practise their religion as they see fit. This is the opposite of neutrality, he told Al Jazeera. It is blatantly discriminatory. {articleGUID} He added that he believes the bill could be a political tactic by the government, saying that Quebec politicians arent concerned with having a law declared unconstitutional by the courts. They will portray this as another example of the federal government limiting Quebecs autonomy on matters of cultural policy, he said. They can play up a loss in court in a way that is beneficial to them. There have been several attempts to ban face coverings in Quebec in recent years, but none have been successful. The final draft of Bill 62 will first be debated in the National Assembly before a vote will take place. Lower Saxony decree prohibiting resettlement of recognised refugees condemned as an infringement of rights. A German citys decision to ban refugees who are already recognised by the country is an infringement of human rights, according to the UNs refugee agency and human rights groups. The state government of Lower Saxony passed a decree last week instructing migration offices to prevent immigration to Salzgitter, citing the northern citys exceptionally high immigration and for reasons of integration. This is an exceptional measure aimed at preventing the social and societal exclusion of immigrant refugees, said the mandate by the states interior ministry. Under the state order, refugees will need proof of employment or have close relatives already living in the city to be allowed settlement. {articleGUID} The new decree is based upon a federal law, which officials say is aimed at improving integration. The UNs refugee agency, UNHCR, criticised the law in a statement last year. We are critical of these limitations imposed on this right if they are not based on an individual assessment of the case, Roland Bank, officer-in-charge of the German representation of UNHCR, told Al Jazeera in an email on Monday. We have underlined the general right to the freedom of choice of residency of recognised refugees as laid down in the Geneva Refugee Convention (Article 26). No positive effect Located in the southeast of Lower Saxony, Salzgitter has a population of more than 100,000. Around 5,800 refugees currently live in the city, according to Mayor Franck Klingebiel. Sascha Schissel, policy adviser at the NGO Refugee Council of Lower Saxony, said the decree is a setback to resettlement and only adds to the obstacles refugees already face in Germany. This measure is an unnecessary infringement of refugee rights and a bureaucratic folly which will have no positive effect on the challenges concerning integration in Salzgitter, whatsoever, Schissel told Al Jazeera. Integration and participation of refugees will now be more hampered than before. {articleGUID} Many refugees still live in camps in Lower Saxony because they are unable to find accommodation. Integration and participation can only be successful when refugees are able to live in their own flats and lead a self-determined life, said Schissel. Political shift The development in northern Germany comes as Chancellor Angela Merkels open-door policy for refugees draws fierce criticism from her detractors. Merkels centre-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party suffered defeat to the Social Democrats (SDP) in Lower Saxonys state election on Sunday. The ban in Salzgitter also comes amid the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which established itself as the countrys third biggest political force in last months general election. The emergence of the anti-refugee and anti-Muslim party in the parliament has worried many asylum seekers in the country. There is also concern that after Salzgitter, more restrictions of movement in Lower Saxony might take place in the near future. Schissel said the new measure though small is a striking example for symbolic politics. Follow Saba Aziz on Twitter: @saba_aziz Sebastian Kurz and the OVP party won Austrias vote after the young politician steered the party further right. At 31 years old, Sebastian Kurz is set to become the worlds youngest leader. The conservative Peoples Party (OVP) leader is poised to be the new Chancellor of Austria. Despite his young age, he already has significant political experience. According to projections, OVP won around 30 percent of the vote. In 2013, he was appointed Europes youngest-ever foreign minister. At 27 years old, he hosted talks between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Germany, France and the UK on the nuclear deal. In 2015, the landmark agreement was signed in Vienna. He has steered the OVP further to the right. During the refugee crisis, he called for stricter border controls in Europe to discourage refugees from fleeing to Europe. He introduced laws preventing foreign organisations from financially supporting Austrian mosques, and said Muslims in the country should only be allowed government-approved German language Qurans. And he backed the burka ban, which prevents people from wearing a veil that covers the face in public. {articleGUID} In essence, Kurz has positioned the OVP close to the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPO). Refugees, he has promised, would not be allowed to receive benefits from the state unless they have lived in Austria for five years. Before the October 15 election, he vowed to halt the influx of people fleeing war and persecution. The OVP party is expected to rule with either the far-right FPO or the centre-left Social Democratic Party of Austria. How did Kurz get here? Kurzs was an eager member of the OVPs youth wing. Having helped the party grow, he rose through the ranks all the way to foreign minister. At his own request, his portfolio would include managing integration. This led to him introduce the so-called Islam Act in 2015, which put restrictions on foreign money supporting Austrian mosques in an attempt to curb a rise in so-called political Islam. Kurz has been likened to other young, charismatic leaders such as Emmanuel Macron of France and Justin Trudeau of Canada. However, Kurzs politics overall are far more right-wing than the mostly liberal agendas of his French and Canadian counterparts. {articleGUID} In May 2017, Kurz was appointed as acting party leader of the OVP after the unexpected resignation of Reinhold Mitterlehner. Two months later, Kurz was officially elected as party leader, and the party quickly rose from the third spot in the polls to winning elections. Why did he win? Kurz has worked towards creating a new, right-wing image that uses moderate language in an attempt to appeal to both left-wing and far-right voters. He rebranded the party, renaming it The New Peoples Party while campaigning that it was time for something new. His main campaign message was to stop illegal immigration into Austria. As foreign minister, he played an important role in 2016 in closing down the Balkan route for refugees flowing into Europe. During a campaign rally, Kurz said: I can also promise today that we will end illegal migration to ensure more order and security in Austria. He wants to slash unemployment benefits for asylum seekers and workers from the EU, and reduce governments aid to refugees. He also promised to stop tax increases. During the campaign, Kurz beat the increasingly popular far right at its own game. The OVP is usually seen as a centre-right party, but it has taken over some of the arguments and issues from the FPO and presented them in a more moderate way, Anton Pelinka, a professor of nationalism studies at the Central European University, told Al Jazeera. The style is different but the substance is not. How do Muslims feel? Concerned. What happens after this election result is important, Carla Amina Baghajati, spokeswoman for the Austrian Islamic Religious Authority, told Al Jazeera. {articleGUID} Anti-Islamic propaganda very much fuelled this election campaign. This is an opportunity to leave the emotional way behind us and get into a more pragmatic dialogue. We should be concerned about this result, but nevertheless, we should also be aware that our democracy is strong and our constitution protects us. What will Austrias government look like? Kurz will now have to form a coalition with either the FPO or SPO, meaning Austria could take a turn further to the right or it could go back to the status quo of a OVP/SPO government. Not all votes have been counted, and it is unclear as of yet which will be the second-biggest party. However, polling before the election showed the far-right FPO as the big favourite to join Kurzs OVP in a coalition government. The two parties formed a government between 2000 and 2007, leading to European sanctions because of the FPOs far-right views. People arent afraid of sanctions any more. It was an exceptional situation then, [but] now we have a completely different political environment, not only in Austria but in almost all European countries, there is a big right-wing presence in politics, Christoph Prantner, a senior editor at Austrias Der Standard newspaper, told Al Jazeera. We have moved to a new normality when it comes to these kinds of issues. Although the OVP and the SPO have a long history of ruling the country, one of the reasons the OVP is successful because it has moved away from the SPO and moved closer towards the far-right. People are sick and tired of the grand coalition government, and the FPO put their fingers on issues people cared about during this election, Pranther said. Coordinated attacks kill 41 and injure 150 at police camp in Paktia while car bombings in Ghazni leave another 30 dead. At least 71 people have been killed in a series of attacks by the Taliban in Paktia and Ghazni provinces, officials in Afghanistan say. Of them, up to 41 people have died in a suicide bombing and gun battle, which injured 150 others, at a police training centre in Gardez, Paktias provincial capital. At least 30 others have been killed in car bombings in neighbouring Ghazni province. The initial double attack in Paktia occurred when fighters attacked the regional police headquarters at around 9am local time (04:30 GMT) on Tuesday in Gardez, less than 161km from the capital, Kabul. The attackers used a truck and an armoured vehicle stolen from security forces to carry out the bomb attack, which left 41 people, including police chief Brigadier-General Toryali Abdiani, dead and more than 100 wounded, Hidayatullah Hamidi, Paktias deputy governor, told Anadolu Agency. Paktia casualties According to officials, a large number of Paktia University students and civilians, who were present near the police headquarters to collect their identity cards and passports, were among the victims. General Murad Ali Murad, deputy interior minister, said in Kabul that 21 civilians were among the dead in the Paktia blasts. In a statement, the interior ministry said seven men took part in the attack: two carried out the bombings while the rest of the attackers engaged with the police in armed clashes. Special police units later overpowered the remaining five attackers, the statement said. In a statement on Twitter, Zabiullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesman, claimed the Paktia attack. He said the special police unit was the primary target; up to 450 police officers were living in the headquarters at the time of the attack. Bordering North Waziristan, one of Pakistans seven semi-autonomous tribal areas or agencies, Paktia in Afghanistan is the birthplace of the Talibans Haqqani Network. Pakistans military regained control of North Waziristan from the Pakistan Taliban after an offensive launched in mid-2014 that lasted until the end of 2016. Ghazni attack The Ghazni provincial administration said in a statement released on Tuesday that fighters blew up an armoured vehicle at the entrance of the Andar district administration in the early hours, and later engaged in a gun battle. Up to 30 people, mostly policemen, were killed, the statement said. The Talibans Mujahid gave a higher death toll, saying 44 police officers died in the Ghazni attack while a large cache of arms and ammunition was also seized. Afghanistans deputy interior minister said the enemies and their foreign backers without identifying them were under immense pressure from Afghan and allied forces, which was why they had chosen this time for such attacks when efforts for peace talks were gaining momentum. General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier this month that he believed Pakistans powerful Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency maintained links to armed groups. It is clear to me that the ISI has connections with terrorist groups, he said, referring to groups that are actively engaged in the Afghan conflict, including the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani network. In response, the Pakistani military said it is the job of intelligence agencies to maintain such connections, but rejected the notion that it supported groups such as the Afghan Taliban. More than 200,000 march in Barcelona, calling for release two separatists leaders detained on sedition charges. More than 200,000 people took to the streets in Barcelona, demanding the release of two men they consider political prisoners after they were arrested earlier this week on charges of sedition. Chanting Freedom for Sanchez and Cuixart! protesters called for the release of Jordi Cuixart of Omnium Cultural and Jordi Sanchez of the National Catalan Assembly (ANC) who were imprisoned without bail in Madrid on Monday, pending a trial on charges of sedition in relation to their separatist organising efforts. The 200,000-strong march took place late on Tuesday with the help of Committees for the Defense of the Referendum (CDR), neighbourhood groups created at the beginning of October to defend the Catalan right to vote, Anna Martinez, one of the CDR organisers, told Al Jazeera. Martinez is affiliated with a CDR in La Verneda La Pau, a working-class area in the northwest of Barcelona. She said she never thought the Spanish government would take political prisoners. Its shocking. The situation has become very serious, she said. Freedom! The rally started earlier on Tuesday as CDRs and other groups marched towards the Spanish delegation in Barcelona, meeting along the way. Their number seemed to grow with each block. Joan Folch lived in France for 24 years and moved back in September because of the political situation. He said he was outraged by the imprisonment of the pro-independence leaders. {articleGUID} The Catalan national movement is unique in that it has support from the political left to right, Folch explained, adding that he believes the movement is growing. Every day, the Spanish government gives us more reasons to continue the struggle, he concluded. The group of 50 met a larger block of protesters at the beginning of Diagonal, one of Barcelonas main thoroughfares. Though the demonstration blocked traffic, drivers honked in support. By the time the CDRs and other groups reached the Spanish delegation, their numbers reached at least 200,000. Demonstrators lit candles and held a five-minute moment of silence for Cuixart and Sanchez before a protester screamed Freedom! to which the 200,000-strong crowd responded in kind. The crowd was diverse. Some wore suits, while others were in torn jeans. The young helped the elderly light candles in the dark. Octavi Martin, 39, told Al Jazeera that Madrid taking political prisoners signifies a turning point. Were tired of negotiating with Spain. Independence is irreversible. Were prepared to resist Madrid non-violently longer than Madrid can repress us. Shortly after the procession arrived, a police helicopter began flying overhead. With each pass, protesters held up their candles and screamed. There have been helicopters constantly since the referendum. Its a bother. Now, we can bother them, Eva Torrents, 21, told Al Jazeera. Putting everyone in their place The imprisonment of the two separatist leaders was warmly received by figures in the ruling right-wing Popular Party (PP). Spanish Justice Minister Rafael Catala said the Catalan leaders imprisonment represented the normal functioning of Spanish justice, adding, we can talk about prison policy, but not political prisoners. {articleGUID} Xavier Garcia Albiol, leader of Catalonias PP, applauded the decision to imprison Cuixart and Sanchez. Rule of law ends up putting everyone in their place, he tweeted. But Josep Costa, a professor of political science at Barcelonas Universitat Pompeu Fabra, said the imprisonment marked another episode showing the complete breakdown of rule of law in Spain. Its the government filing the charges and seeking the imprisonment of political opponents, Costa said. Jordi Graupera, a Catalan author and postdoctoral researcher at Princeton, agreed: They are political prisoners. They are being punished for being successful in their peaceful resistance strategy, he told Al Jazeera. Standoff Omnium and the ANC are grassroots organisations that have long assisted in pro-independence campaigns, including the disputed October 1 referendum on Catalan independence. The imprisonment of Cuixart and Sanchez, the leaders of both groups, is the latest development in a heightening political crisis in Spain. {articleGUID} The Spanish constitutional court ruled the October 1 Catalan referendum unlawful, with Madrid ordering police to stop the poll while respecting voters. But Spanish National Police and the Civil Guard, a military body tasked with law enforcement, used excessive force to stop the vote, according to rights groups. Catalans voted to secede from Spain, but turnout was reportedly lower than 50 percent. On October 10, Catalan President Carles Puigdemont declared an independent Catalan state and then suspended the effects of the declaration. He says his intent was to foster dialogue with Madrid. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy then gave him until Monday morning to clarify whether or not independence was declared, warning that he would enact Article 155. Referred to as the nuclear option, Article 155 of the Spanish constitution has never been used before and allows the central government to take control of Catalonias regional government. Puigdemont responded Monday with an offer of two months of dialogue, but failed to clarify the stance on independence. Madrid has extended the ultimatum until Thursday morning. The central government has reiterated its warning that if Puigdemont does not clarify his stance by this deadline, Article 155 will be enacted. South Africa president makes changes to cabinet in move seen to be linked to a contentious nuclear deal with Russia. Johannesburg, South Africa President Jacob Zuma has reshuffled his cabinet, adjusting six portfolios including the Ministry of Energy, in a move analysts say is linked to a contentious nuclear energy deal with Russia. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the presidency said it had moved David Mahlobo, former minister of state security and a longtime Zuma ally, to the energy portfolio. Zuma also fired Blade Nzimande, the minister of higher education and training, in a move understood as punitive after Nzimande criticised the president. Nzimande is also the General Secretary of the South African Communist Party (SACP), a key partner in the tripartite alliance with the ANC-led government. His removal from government has prompted speculation that the SACP may leave the alliance. Political analyst Steve Friedman, director of the Centre for the Study of Democracy at the University of Johannesburg, told Al Jazeera that Mahlobos appointment was the most important development. He is considered a hyper-Zuma loyalist. It seems he has been moved into this position to push through the nuclear deal, Friedman said. Zuma appeared to be hedging bets, Friedman explained, before the party conference in December 2017 when the ANC will elect a new leader. Should Zuma lose that election, he has put in place a loyalist in the ministry so he can nail down the nuclear deal [in the future], Friedman said. The South African government has been trying to push through a contentious nuclear energy deal to the tune of $74bn with Russia. The deal is thought to have been struck when Zuma met Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2014. In April, the Western Cape High Court ruled that the potential deal with Russia was unlawful and unconstitutional and that if the government wanted to proceed, it would have to restart the process. Liz McDaid, an environmentalist with Southern African Faith Communities Environment Institute one of the organisations that took the state to court described Mahlobos appointment as systematic state capture. This appointment was not dreamt up last night. It is an obvious attempt to make this [nuclear] deal happen in the future, McDaid said. Blade Nzimande fired for the principled #SACP stance against #StateCapture. Worryingly #Mahlobo is now in energy. Woza nuclear, gas deal! Justice Malala (@justicemalala) October 17, 2017 In September, HuffPost South Africa reported that Mahlobo had become the countrys de facto prime minister and the presidents right-hand man. Mahlobo himself has been criticised for his dealings. In late 2016, an Al Jazeera investigation found that Mahlobo had a close relationship with alleged rhino-poaching kingpin Guan Jiang Guang. Tuesdays developments mark the second time in 2017 that Zuma has reshuffled his cabinet. In March, Zuma fired five ministers, including then finance minister Pravin Gordhan and his deputy, Mcebisi Jonas. Zuma has been under growing pressure to step down, following the publication of a report by the public protector that concluded that Zumas government had been potentially captured by private capital, in particular by the wealthy and influential Gupta family who hold a range of business interests in South Africa. In August, Zuma narrowly survived a no-confidence vote held by secret ballot in parliament. Members of the 400-seat parliament voted 198 to 177, with nine abstentions. The story of Shula Cohen, aka The Pearl, who spied for the Israelis in Lebanon for 14 years. A film by Rania Rafai When Shula Cohen was arrested for espionage in 1961, Beirut society was shocked. How could such an elegant, classy, high society woman turn out to be an Israeli spy? Shulami, Shula, Cohen was born of Jewish parents in Argentina and grew up in Israel. At 16, she was married off to a wealthy Lebanese Jewish businessman, Josef Kishik, and moved to Beirut. Jewish people are raised to think of a Mossad spy as a superhero, capable of doing anything, anywhere and by any means. The idea is instilled in every Israeli from age three to 80. The spy for them is a superman. by Nasser Laham, journalist Its not entirely clear how Cohen, code-named The Pearl, became a spy for the Jewish Agency and then for the Israeli intelligence service, Mossad, when it was formed in December 1949. One theory is that she had always wanted to be involved in the building of Israel. Another is that she was recruited in Jerusalem and her marriage to Kishik was a front. Either way, Cohen carved out a prominent place in the higher echelons of Beirut society and hosted salons where she entertained and cultivated politicians, influential businessmen and senior army officers. She used these parties, her cafes, casinos and her husbands Beirut shop to make contacts who would enable her to provide intelligence to Israel and to build a spy network. Shula Cohen established this network not only to gather information but also to smuggle Jews via the south, said writer Saqr Abu Fakhr. Cohen was part of a huge operation called Aliya Bet to bring Jews from Arab countries through Lebanon into Palestine. Arabs were opposed to the settlement of Jews in pre-1948 Palestine, so their transit had to be secret. Jewish emigration from Arab countries to Israel remained highly contentious post-1948, and so this smuggling continued for many years. The big success was not the information she gave, but she was there, and the people from here, from the army, would go to Prime Minister Ben Gurion and say we have spies in the heart of Lebanon, said Ronni Shaked, a journalist at the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Aharonoth. Rumours began to circulate about the goings-on at Cohens salons and their clientele, with suggestions that sex was bought and sold. Lebanons intelligence service, Le Deuxieme Bureau, was set up by President Fouad Chehab and asked to observe Cohen. We considered it a new challenge to reveal what that woman was hiding, what her job was and who she was working for, Major General Sami al-Khatib remembered. We rented an apartment above Shula Cohens house in the same building. We also rented a second apartment opposite Shula Cohens. We started spying on her through remote listening devices on the floor, wall or ceiling, linked to satellites. We recorded the voices and sent them to control rooms. Each apartment worked 24 hours a day. After two months of surveillance, the Deuxieme Bureau decided it had all the information on Cohen it needed. It planned a raid for August 9, 1961. Shula Cohens arrest in Beirut was a shock. She was a spy receiving high-ranking figures at her salons. It was a shock to Lebanese public opinion that Lebanon could be infiltrated, said Saqr Abu Fakhr. Cohens trial began on October 27, 1961, and received massive amounts of media attention. But, interestingly, nothing came out during the trial about the many Lebanese and other Arab politicians who had been caught in her clandestine web. On July 25, 1962, Cohen was sentenced to death. But due to international pressure, including from Israel, her sentence was commuted to 20 years. Cohen only served six years of her sentence imprisoned in Beirut. Israel took a large number of Arab prisoners during the second Arab-Israeli war in 1967 and Cohen, among others, was exchanged for a number of Syrian, Lebanese and Egyptian soldiers in the summer of 1967. Shula Cohen died in Jerusalem on May 21, 2017, aged 100. Also in 2017, the Lebanese authorities claimed to have made several arrests in connection with the passing of information to Mossad. Shula Cohen has passed away, but her legacy lives on. Iraqi government troops have taken control of the northern city of Kirkuk amid tensions over Kurdish secession bid. The Iraqi government has seized control of Kirkuk from the Kurds, which took just a day to take charge of the multi-ethnic city and the oil fields surrounding it. Kurdish forces have since rapidly withdrawn from several contested cities and towns, leaving Iraqi forces and their Shia militia allies in charge. Last month, voters in Iraqs northern Kurdish region as well as some disputed areas overwhelmingly voted to secede. But Baghdad, as well as neighbours Iran and Turkey, has fiercely opposed the move. So what will this mean for Iraqs Kurds? Presenter: James Bays Guests: Mowaffak al-Rubaie ex-Iraqi National Security adviser and current member of parliament for Baghdad Karokh Khoshnaw Kurdish political analyst and Professor, Byte Institute Tallha Abdulrazaq Researcher, University of Exeters Strategy and Security Institute I strongly condemn the actions of the four Student Government officials on the local fee committee who recently struck down a possible increase of much-needed funding for the Counseling & Wellness Center, located at 3190 Radio Road. The question at hand was whether to raise student fees by 71.4 cents per credit hour so the CWC could pay the 12 counselors it plans to hire over the next four years. The answer from SG was an incomprehensible no. I mean, making sure our students have mental health counselors to go to if they need help? Who on Earth would do that? I guess not SG. Look, I take 12 credit hours to strike a good balance with my minimum wage jobs. That means each semester, this fee increase would have resulted in me paying an additional $8.57 HOLD UP, HOW DARE I PAY AN EXTRA EIGHT DOLLARS PER SEMESTER TO MAKE SURE MY FRIENDS HAVE FREE, ACCESSIBLE MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING. Oops. Sorry about that. Its not like I could make up the difference by working one extra hour. Its not like I could save $8 this semester by using my Gator Greenbacks coupon book. Its not like if I asked a friend for $8, they would help me out, no questions asked. Its not like Im one of the privileged few who has found more than $8 on the ground. Maybe I actually want my student fees to go up by $8 so my friends can get the help they need. Maybe the current SG administrations addiction to the mantra of not raising student fees will come around to hurt the students they are supposed to represent. Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now Maybe we could have voted for the fee increase and reduced the CWCs overhead payment. Maybe the current SG administration should have asked for our opinions before purporting to act on our behalf. Maybe every additional day the CWC doesnt have permanent funding for new counselors is another day a student who needs help doesnt get it. Maybe it seems as if SG acts as if every Gator counts, unless you have to spend an extra $8 per semester. Maybe it is that when it came down to lives versus dollars, SG pointed toward their pocketbooks. But, hey, at least we have that music festival next semester, right? Today, Im ashamed to be a part of SG. We need to do better. If you feel strongly about this, come down to the Senate meeting Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in the Reitz Union Chambers and speak during public debate. Contact me ahead of time at zchou@ufl.edu so I can brief you on how it works and make sure you get the maximum time possible to share your story. Zachariah Chou is the SG senator (Inspire Party) for the Murphree Area and Minority Party Leader. Editors note: Zachariah Chou formerly worked as a paid photographer for the Alligator. English News 19th CPC National Congress to have profound influence on world: ex-French PM Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 17 Octobre 2017 "France and China share broad consensus on promoting multilateralism and enhancing international cooperation," Raffarin said, adding that the vision for a balanced, multi-polar and peaceful world is the basis for the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. By Gong Ming, Wang Yuan from Peoples Daily A former French prime minister said the 19th National Congress of Communist Party of China (CPC)will have a profound influence on the world. "It is going to be a very important meeting, and China is a country of great significance," Jean-Pierre Raffarin said in an interview with People's Daily, adding that the significant meeting should never be underestimated. "As the world's second largest economy, China is increasingly influencing the world, Raffarin said. In this sense, the Congress is closely linked with the world, he added. In the last five years, thorough domestic reform and mutually beneficial cooperation with other countries has not only helped China itself but also helped China assist other developing countries. China has also attached great importance to the development of multi-polarity and multilateralism, taking great responsibility in the international community, Raffarin said. He added that he hopes China to maintain its development policies and momentum of the past five years. He believes that China has long been proving to the world that strong economic growth is a major global driving force, stressing that China also helps promote world peace and stability. As a key player in BRICS, G20 and other groups, China has helped other countries forge agreements and consensus over the last five years. "The world recognizes its role," Raffarin said. Still faced with the threat of war, the world yearns for peace, and we expect the peaceful role of China under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, he said. Raffarin explained that the 19th CPC National Congress will highlight China's strategies and policies in the next five years. Taking the Belt and Road initiative as an example, it not only promotes economic development but also contributes to peace, he said. "In the next five years, the Belt and Road initiative will accelerate global economic growth and enhance non-governmental exchanges. As a result, world peace will be maintained ... It is Chinas most important role," Raffarin noted. He firmly believes China will continue to play a major role in balancing the international order and safeguarding world peace. "France and China share broad consensus on promoting multilateralism and enhancing international cooperation," Raffarin said, adding that the vision for a balanced, multi-polar and peaceful world is the basis for the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. "I sincerely hope that both sides maintain and deepen exchanges," he said. Photo taken on May 14, 2017 shows Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former Prime Minister of France delivering his speech during the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, China. Photo/ VCG Dans la meme rubrique : < > China sees prosperous development of offshore wind power generation China speeds up efforts to expand, renovate expressways 'First-store economy' leads consumption upgrade Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) English News Chinas political system contributes to its economic success: German journal Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 17 Octobre 2017 In the case of China, following its reforms after the seventies, it has become the poster child of economic development. In just three decades, it went from being poor and isolated to the world's second-largest economy. By Huang Fahong from Peoples Daily A recent German commentary called on the country and the whole of Europe to learn from the Chinese economic model, saying that Chinas success can be attributed to both its political and economic system. The following is an abstract of the article, published in online journal International Politics and Society: We are living through a period of historic global upheaval. After the Second World War, economic and political structures emerged that afforded dominant status to Western industrialised nations, especially the US, but these structures are now undergoing a fundamental transformation. At the same time, formerly developing countries, especially in Asia, have been successfully integrated into the globalised economy,while Western industrial nations are getting anxious, fearing a loss of status in the world order. In the case of China, following its reforms after the seventies, it has become the poster child of economic development. In just three decades, it went from being poor and isolated to the world's second-largest economy. To understand its accomplishments properly, we need to take a closer look at its political and economic system. China sees itself as a socialist market economy with Chinese characteristics. It joined the World Trade Organisation in December 2001 and in the subsequent 15 years of transition, and carried out reforms aimed at turning it into a liberal market economy. The Chinese government continues to exert considerable influence over economic and social development, especially through its five-year plans that give political and economic guidance to business, and to national and regional authorities. But, this does not make China a planned economy. Today, competition plays an important role in Chinese society and, because of its enormous size and variety, there are significant differences between policies in different provinces. Also, at the local level, special economic zones and approved pilot projects make it possible to try out new ideas, privatise state-owned companies, incentivise private companies, or allow international investment in more sectors. Chinas industrial policy has been especially effective in the IT, internet and communications sectors, by allowing its companies to break into the top international tier. For example, Huawei now has 170,000 employees in more than 120 countries, and is one of the world's largest smartphone manufacturers, alongside Apple and Samsung. Other success stories include Alibaba, Baidu (a Google rival) and the internet company Tencent. But International competition doesn't just exist between companies. In the global economy of the 21st century, it also exists between political and regulatory systems and, while German and European policymakers need to adapt to this competition between political systems, they also need to learn from the success of the Chinese model. The answer to this cannot be found in isolation and national protectionism. The only way to secure long-term competitiveness is through successful cooperation between government bodies, universities and companies. Dans la meme rubrique : < > China sees prosperous development of offshore wind power generation China speeds up efforts to expand, renovate expressways 'First-store economy' leads consumption upgrade Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) English News Documentary on Xis national governing philosophy gets Asia-Pacific exposure Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 17 Octobre 2017 Chinas high-speed rail successes, shown in the documentary, are commented on by Oh Ei Sun, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technology University, who says, High-speed rail is my first choice of transportation for trips between cities in China, then adds that they have shortened the distance between each city and formed one-hour commuting circles. By Ni Tao, Li Feng, Yu Yichun and Xu Wei from Peoples Daily A three-episode documentary that introduces Chinese President Xi Jinpings ideas on national governance had its debut on the Discovery Channel on Monday as the first time for international media at this level to broadcast a TV series giving a systematic interpretation of the leaders governing philosophy. The broadcast of China: Time of Xi started last Saturday and ran for three consecutive days on Discovery Networks Asia Pacific, reaching over 200 million people in 37 countries and regions, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, India, Thailand and Malaysia. Film production was supervised by Vikram Channa, vice-president of Discovery Networks Asia Pacific, and a veteran British TV producer, Liz Mcleod. Production team members were mainly from the US, UK, the Netherlands, India, Singapore and China. The documentary includes interviews with a number of world-renowned experts and scholars, including former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, US scholar Robert Kuhn, UK scholar Martin Jacques, director Zheng Yongnian of the East Asian Institute of National University of Singapore, and Zambian economist Dambisa Moyo. The TV series offers in-depth interpretation on Chinas development path, ideas, and inspirations for the world. "I can assure you I would not want to wake up as president of China, when 1.4 billion people are expecting their lives to be improved," Moyo commented in the film. This is very challenging, she added. Xi Jinping era is based on building a different kind of economy of innovation, moving up the value chain, using new kind of technologies, said Jacques. Rudd also hailed Chinas progress, saying that the Chinese government has lifted 600 million people out of poverty since the launch of reform and opening up policy. The documentary provides stories about poverty alleviation, health care reforms, education and high-speed rail development, as well as supply-side structural reforms, technological innovation and environmental protection, along with the promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative, the construction of MombasaNairobi Standard Gauge Railway, and China-Europe freight trains. Xis visit to Australia in 2014 is described, especially to the state of Tasmania, as very important since it brought global attention to this remote area, says Jan Everett, vice-president of the Australia-ChinaFriendship Society, who adds that Tasmania reappeared on the world map after his visit. Chinas high-speed rail successes, shown in the documentary, are commented on by Oh Ei Sun, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technology University, who says, High-speed rail is my first choice of transportation for trips between cities in China, then adds that they have shortened the distance between each city and formed one-hour commuting circles. This not only promotes the economy, but also improves peoples lives, was Oh Ei Suns conclusion. China has eliminated mass poverty in a short time through targeted measures, says Javed Akhtar, who worked with Independent News Pakistan (INP) asthe In-charge Pak-China News Desk, then adds, Its a miracle to benefit the general public with development achievements. (Source: Peoples Daily) Dans la meme rubrique : < > China sees prosperous development of offshore wind power generation China speeds up efforts to expand, renovate expressways 'First-store economy' leads consumption upgrade Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) English News E-commerce changes life in rural China Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 17 Octobre 2017 Online sales of the countys agricultural products exceeded one billion yuan in 2014, two billion the next year and three billion in 2016. By now, it has become home to more than 10,000 online shops and 50 logistics companies, and is selling its products to more than 50 countries and regions. By Du Yifei from Peoples Daily E-commerce is helping revitalize China's rural areas and improve peoples lives. It has also emerged as a new growth driver for consumer spending in the country. One example of this is in Guangshan County, in mountainous part of central Chinas Henan province, and a famously impoverished site. In 2014, it began vigorously promoting e-commerce and this has gradually pushed sales of local agricultural produce with regional features. Online sales of the countys agricultural products exceeded one billion yuan in 2014, two billion the next year and three billion in 2016. By now, it has become home to more than 10,000 online shops and 50 logistics companies, and is selling its products to more than 50 countries and regions. E-commerce is playing an important role in building a modern logistics system for trade and commerce in rural China, said Liu Yong, Party Secretary of Guangshan County. There are many other places in China that have seen similar growth as online consumption of rural Chinese reached 894.5 billion yuan ($131.5 billion) in 2016, according to an e-commerce development report for 2016 - 2017 published on October 12. And online business owners in rural China created over 20 million jobs in the period. To get e-commerce to play an important role in the rural economy, especially in poverty-stricken regions, China started a pilot program in 2014, providing policy support. Currently, total online sales of 496 trial counties have surpassed 229.5 billion yuan, up 44.2 percent year on year, and 6.1 percent more than overall growth of the whole countryside. E-commerce is also changing rural peoples way of life. Previously, it was hard for traditional large-scale retailers to extend their business to the countryside because of transportation problems and the small consumer market. At the same time, rural consumers had to deal with low product quality, limited variety, long-distance deliveries and poor transportation. These days, e-commerce is making shopping easier for rural consumers and offering them more products to choose and buy. And, as the number of rural Internet users increases, total rural online sales are expected to surpass one trillion yuan in the near future, according to a report on Chinas rural e-commerce consumer trend in 2016 from the 21st Century Economic Institute and other organizations. The report indicated that 74 percent of rural consumers now consider quality important, reflecting a strong sign of consumer maturity. In the future, the countryside will be a source of new growth as farmers incomes and the number of rural Internet users increase. Dans la meme rubrique : < > China sees prosperous development of offshore wind power generation China speeds up efforts to expand, renovate expressways 'First-store economy' leads consumption upgrade Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) English News World Bank chief : China's poverty reduction effort is historic Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 17 Octobre 2017 Global economic growth has picked up after years of stagnation, with trade beginning to get new vigor, Kim pointed out, but admitted that the fragile recovery pace around the globe is still threatened by flabby investment, a rising tide of protectionism, uncertain policies, and potential fluctuations in the financial market. By Qiang Wei from Peoples Daily Chinas effort to eliminate poverty is one of the greatest stories in human history, World Bank President Jim Yong Kim said recently. The Chinese economy has grown steadily and is making headway in shifting from rapid growth to higher quality economic growth, Kim added at a press conference to mark the start of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank annual meetings. "With the evolution of the Chinese economic system and its embrace of the global market, China has lifted about 800 million people out of poverty," the World Bank chief noted, praising Chinas accomplishments. Kim added that China was the major contributor to global poverty reduction, with the ratio of people living in extreme poverty in the world having dropped to less than 10 percent, from 40 percent. We are always looking for the lessons from that experience, and this effort has been an historic one, he stressed. Global economic growth has picked up after years of stagnation, with trade beginning to get new vigor, Kim pointed out, but admitted that the fragile recovery pace around the globe is still threatened by flabby investment, a rising tide of protectionism, uncertain policies, and potential fluctuations in the financial market. Against this backdrop, the World Bank chief called on all countries to address these challenges as well as climate change, natural disasters, famine and disease, by making the economy more resilient. Kim also expressed expectations for the upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), saying, Were waiting to see what comes out of the Party Congress like everyone else. Were encouraged that China has stayed on course during this change in what they call rapid growth to higher quality economic growth, and we think that the growth will remain stable in China this year, he added. Dans la meme rubrique : < > China sees prosperous development of offshore wind power generation China speeds up efforts to expand, renovate expressways 'First-store economy' leads consumption upgrade Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) It isnt a secret that physicians in private practice despise insurance companies and view them as (well) the enemy. Now, more than ever, doctors who (even) voted for Obama -- not once but twice -- admit to scrambling to escape federally-mandated insurance for themselves and families. Most patients havent caught on that a growing number of practitioners are defecting and reveling in saner cost guidelines offered by healthshare ministries. They started out as small religious groups who would share medical expenses: They could never have anticipated the hundreds of thousands who would come banging on their doors in hopes of opting out of the (un)Affordable Care Act. (There are approximately four major faith-based groups in the country.) This doesnt sit well with the biggest ACA cheerleader of them all, Barack Obama, who worries that the trend could challenge the stability of the insurance markets. That hasnt stopped the idea from catching on like wildfire, even among Jewish doctors. I couldnt believe the hypocrisy of the government to say catastrophic insurance doesnt measure up as quality insurance, says Steve Davidson, a cranial osteopath in private practice in Phoenix. But isnt that what the ACA is now offering: Families are stuck paying an average of $25,000 annually (for four), and absorbing out-of-pocket medical costs because of exorbitant deductibles? He sums up the inverted federally-mandated logic with: Wouldnt you call that catastrophic coverage -- only youre forced to purchase services you dont need or want. Dr. Davidson joined the stampede among his colleagues to sign up with a faith-based medical cooperative. Apparently, Forbes magazines projection of a $25,000 annual health care insurance bill for a family of four may be a thing of the past. I thought my insurance company made a mistake, averaging nearly $1,000 per family member, says Junella Chin, an osteopathic physician in New York with a family of four. No mistake about it. Dr. Chin fired her insurance carrier, rather than paying the astronomical $46,800 annual premium. She had heard from more than one colleague about a cooperative, Liberty HealthShare, based in Ohio, which was earning a reputation for integrity in paying out claims. Many physicians struggling with spiraling costs for themselves and patients still worry about the uncertainty of pooling medical expenses. Some take a more pragmatic view. How could any group be worse than BlueCross BlueShield? said one physician who wanted to remain anonymous. The company is becoming more creative at denying claims with each passing quarter. He, too, opted out of federally-mandated insurance for a ministry healthshare. I felt like I was aiding and abetting the enemy, said the doctor of his monthly payments to the behemoth-size carrier. Surprisingly, the ministries are starting to garner positive coverage in the financial newspaper of record, the Wall Street Journal. Kristine Willington, 37, of Beverly, Mass., was reportedly horrified to learn that her familys insurance was almost doubling to $2,100 a month with a $5,000 deductible, according to the WSJ. Willington nearly sounded like an advertisement for the healthshare cooperative she decided to join, pointing out that her revised payment was nearly 75 percent less, paying $475 a month, with a $1,500 annual deductible. Her sons $30,000 hospital bill was taken care of by members, answering her worries about consumer risks in a faith-based group, according to the article. Group members even pray for you, at no extra charge. Ironically, leaders of the ministries thought signups would be slow because of subsidized payments being offered on the ACA insurance exchanges. Our purpose is ministry, not profit, said the Rev. Howard Russell, chief executive of Christian Healthcare Ministries, whose philosophy serves as the abiding principle for the religious group. Their message is being heard loud and clear by taxpayers, not necessarily all Christians, desperately trying to opt-out of ObamaCare. Ministries are accepting non-Christians, but they are not PC about who they choose. They are known to routinely turn away marijuana users, and applicants suffering from obesity and/or addictions, along with many pre-existing conditions. They will insure members when they become sick. A self-employed painter -- who launched Samaritan Ministries International -- from his remodeled chicken coop in his backyard, recalls members began joining in 1994. The group has moved into a three-story headquarters and recently threw a luncheon celebrating 50,000 members, according to the WSJ. None of us imagined it would be this big, said James Lansberry, executive vice president of Samaritan. Perhaps he should consider thanking Obama, because his numbers are only expected to grow from here. My wife and I receive bulk-mail political fundraising pitches disguised as "surveys" all the time -- but not ordinarily from the American Civil Liberties Union, which I remember as supposedly being a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to protecting our liberties as enshrined in the Bill of Rights. For example, the ACLU's recent defense of the free-speech rights of the Nazis in Charlottesville, Virginia, no matter how terribly offensive those speeches would be, is how I remember the ACLU from the "old days." However, a 4-page survey/fundraising ACLU mailer I recently received reads as if it was designed by a Social Justice Warrior. The first page is pretty innocuous, primarily asking for my opinion of the strength of civil rights in Massachusetts in relation to other states. I don't really have any facts or statistics to make such a judgment, but my feeling is that, because I live in a "blue" state, where nanny government harasses us with nitpicking regulations at both state and city levels, I would probably feel more free if I lived in a "red", less highly-regulated state. But SJW-itis pops up very soon, in Question #3: "how concerned are you that the efforts by President Trump to undermine our civil liberties". Proof, please; I was not aware that Trump is destroying my civil liberties; indeed, I think the opposite is true. At any rate, this contentious assertion should not be offered up as if it were an incontrovertible fact. The Social Justice Warrior really gets to work on page 2 of the survey:.In #1, "Baseless claims about voter fraud". Complaints of voter fraud are not "baseless"; voter fraud is hard to prove, and has been proven on a small scale. Whether or not voter fraud is more widespread is currently the subject of research projects and a Congressional investigation; we shall see. "a new wave of voter suppression laws" I interpret as SJW-coded language for voter ID laws that, if implemented, would go a long way to guaranteeing the civil right of citizens who vote not having their votes countermanded by the illegal votes of non-citizens. Item #2 is highly emotional SJW language in opposition to enforcing existing immigration law. I thought the ACLU favored a nation of laws, not a nation of people doing as they please in spite of the law? I guess not. (Note to ACLU: Foreigners in the U.S. have rights, but not the extensive protections that citizens do.) Item #3 is a political issue (taxpayer funding of abortions) having nothing to do with civil rights. From the wording of items #3 and #5, it is clear the ACLU organization is very pro-abortion. I guess there's no room in the ACLU for you, you deplorable, if you think the right of mothers to murder their unborn babies is absolute rather than inhumane and deserving of being regulated. According to #5, you are an "Emboldened extremist." Item #4 pertains exclusively to POTUS: "Donald Trump abusing power and undermining the rule of law". Again, I ask: proof please? What, exactly, does the SJW have to offer for evidence? Exhibiting a severe case of Trump Derangement Syndrome is not proof. In #6, "the Muslim ban" No such thing. The original (revised) travel ban for certain terrorist-infested nations, identified by the Obama administration, which are primarily Muslim was blocked by lower courts (to which Trump acceded -- so much for being a fascist!), then allowed to proceed by the U.S. Supreme Court. That travel ban expired and has been replaced by new restrictions on immigration from countries, both Muslim and non-Muslim, with substandard vetting. The ACLU is in favor of letting just anybody into the country? On the third page, about defending freedom, I'm definitely in favor of that, but why do I get the feeling the SJW who wrote this survey would favor freedoms tied to identity politics? Perhaps it's because of #2, "our fast-growing base of activists and supporters to mobilize people" Community organizers! We just had one of those as our president. How well did that work out for you? In #3, block efforts in advancing racial profiling" -- does that mean the ACLU will target unconstitutional reverse discrimination (blandly called "affirmative action") against people trying to get into college or seeking employment? Don't I wish! On page 4 -- here it comes -- is the money pitch: "Yes, with President Trump in the White House and extremists pushing their anti-liberties agenda" does not, I think, refer to the so-called Antifa fascists who use violence to shut down the free-speech rights of conservative speakers, nor to the violence of Black Lives Matter terrorists. If I lived in a "red" state, do you think the ACLU would be mailing me a survey and membership solicitation on how the ACLU is fighting alongside Trump to protect our freedom of speech, religious freedoms, and the right to bear arms? Unlikely. In the fine print at the bottom of the 4th page it states that Contributions to the ACLU are not tax deductible for charitable purposes. From the hard-left dogma incorporated into this survey, I can see why -- any money sent to the ACLU will primarily support social-justice warfare, which is decidedly not a charitable activity. Nick Chase is a retired but still very active writer, editor, and webmaster, and records classical music concerts for radio broadcast. You can read more of his work on the American Thinker website and at contrariansview.org. Today there is the story about Trumps (now former drug czar nominee) Representative Tom Marino withdrawing his name from consideration for the job, following a CBS 60 Minutes and Washington Post expose. The news program accused Marino of pushing a bill to weaken enforcement on drug companies which sold opioids. Fine and dandy. But maybe the media should mention that the bill he sponsored passed through a parliamentary procedure known as unanimous consent (reserved for bills considered non-controversial) in 2016 and was signed by President Obama. It was also not opposed by the DEA. Somehow all the swamp dwellers in D.C. didnt read the bill or didnt understand the bill. It seems Congress doesnt read a lot of bills before passing, Senator Schumer, who voted for the bill, says putting Marino in as drug czar would be like having a fox guard a hen house. Schumer is one of the foxes who has guarded the hen house for decades so he knows a lot about the subject. At least the bill's co-sponsor Rep. Marsha Blackburn pointed out that the bill had 'unintended consequences' and should be revisited. Blackburn, by the way, has just announced her bid for a Senate seat in the place being vacated by retiring Sen. Bob Corker. Interesting timing there, just as the timing with Marino's drug czar nomination is. If Congress and reporters want to see what has contributed greatly to the opioid crisis they should look at the massive increases in government spending on drugs especially through Medicaid. And the massive influx of heroin brought in by Mexico's cartels as a result of Obama's open borders policy. Someone who didnt cause the opioid crisis is Donald Trump who is trying to clean it up but as with many crises that Obama handed him, the media is implying that he is to blame. Democrats are deeply split into two factions. The old guard, a gerontocracy that still runs the congressional caucuses, is white, liberal, and very, very old, or racialist. The other faction is very progressive, if not outright socialist, younger, far left, and heavily minority, usually committed to identity politics. Thanks to two recent announcements, we can look forward to an open slugging match between to the two factions on a vast scale, one that may last most of the year, through a springtime primary election and a general election in November. First, ancient (84), rich (estimated net worth more than $40 million), white Dianne Feinstein announced that she would seek re-election. Second, younger (50), powerful (he runs the California State Senate as president pro-tem), ambitious (he is term-limited in his state seat), and Hispanic Kevin de Leon announced that he will throw his hat into the ring and run against Feinstein in the primary for the Senate nomination. So the national Democrats will watch as the aging establishment battles the vanguard of the NextGen Democrats a party powered by the demographic transformation of the United States through mass unskilled immigration. It will get ugly. The fact that, in addition to being rich and white, Feinstein is Jewish will almost certainly be used against her, probably in venues mostly invisible to the MSM, which will do their best to ignore the Jew-hatred anyway. The left is the new home of mass anti-Semitism. Social media ads, phone calls, and maybe even fake news from Macedonian content farms would be among the preferred methods for exploiting bigotry. It's the sort of opportunity to exacerbate the social divisions in America that would appeal to Moscow and any of our other enemies. But even aside from the World's Oldest Hate, it will be ugly. There is no small sense of resentment palpable among many Hispanic activists toward the wealthier whites of the Golden State, and the Aztlan fantasy of kicking them out and proclaiming a bronze republic stirs many a heart as the flames of anger and resentment are continually fanned. Here is the wild card: California voters adopted a "jungle primary" system via ballot initiative, meaning that the two top vote-getters in the primary face off against each other, regardless of party affiliation. This means that in all likelihood, Feinstein will face de Leon twice, in the primary which he might win, since the turnout will be lower and activists may predominate, choosing him and again in the November election. The National Democrats have to recognize the nominee, but will the DSCC put its money behind De Leon, if he grabs the prize? Feinstein has her own resources and a lot of rich friends, and she is, after all, the incumbent. The two races could cost tens of millions of dollars each and likely will be covered closely by the national media as a fight for the soul (as if!) of the Democratic Party. If the GOP has any wit, it will focus on De Leon's radicalism to stimulate turnout down the ballot in November. As Casey Nolan notes in the Mercury-News: No major Republican elected officials in the state have said they're considering a Senate run. De Leon's entry raises the possibility of a November ballot with a governor's race and a Senate race between two Democrats. Some polls of the 2018 governor's race show two Democrats getting first and second place in that primary. That could have a dire impact for the GOP on lower-ballot races like crucial Congressional races. "The challenge is how you turn out Republican voters where there's only a handful of places where they'll be able to elect a Republican," Eckery said. There are seven congressional Districts in California that have GOP reps but voted for Hillary. If Republican voters don't bother showing up, the party could lose all of them, and control of the House. So it is essential to focus on De Leon as the face of the Democrats, in California and collaterally. Then national media will help, drawn like moths to a flame to the story of the plutocrat versus the peon. Make no mistake: the California state government is a disaster, corrupt, bloated, overpaid, and lavishly subsidizing an underclass, as it openly solicits illegals by declaring itself a "sanctuary state." De Leon's fingerprints are all over shepherding it through, state Senate-approved, of course. It is far from clear that a majority of Californians support this move, since a poll found that 74 percent of them want an end to sanctuary cities. The state government's moves receive little coverage outside a few newspapers, pre-eminently the Sacramento Bee. Most people have no idea what goes on in Sacramento. De Leon is smart, handsome, and a piece of work. One little piece of his life story parallels that of young Obama morphing from Barry to Barack, with a multiracial family story, to boot: The name on his birth certificate isn't Kevin de Leon. That's how the Los Angeles Democrat identified himself more than two years ago when he was sworn in as the 47th president pro tem of the California Senate, the first Latino to hold the position in more than a century. On his birth certificate and voter rolls, however, the 50-year-old politician is Kevin Alexander Leon. Stay tuned. A journalist who helped publicize revelations in the Panama Papers and exposed high-level corruption in the Maltese government was killed when a car bomb destroyed her car. Daphne Caruana Galizia, a blogger whose website was sometimes more popular than all the mainstream dailies in the country combined, recently concentrated her fire on the country's prime minister, Joseph Muscat, and two of his closest aides, accusing them of accepting bribes. The Guardian: Her most recent revelations pointed the finger at Malta's prime minister, Joseph Muscat, and two of his closest aides, connecting offshore companies linked to the three men with the sale of Maltese passports and payments from the government of Azerbaijan. No group or individual has come forward to claim responsibility for the attack. Malta's president, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, called for calm. "In these moments, when the country is shocked by such a vicious attack, I call on everyone to measure their words, to not pass judgment and to show solidarity," she said. After a fraught general election this summer, commentators had been fearing a return to the political violence that scarred Malta during the 1980s. In a statement, Muscat condemned the "barbaric attack", saying he had asked police to reach out to other countries' security services for help identifying the perpetrators. "Everyone knows Ms Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine," said Muscat at a hastily convened press conference, "both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way". Muscat announced later in parliament that FBI officers were on their way to Malta to assist with the investigation, following his request for outside help from the US government. The Nationalist party leader, Adrian Delia himself the subject of negative stories by http://www.politico.eu/article/malta-target-for-italian-mafia-russian-loan-sharks-says-report/ claimed the killing was linked to her reporting. "A political murder took place today," Delia said in a statement. "What happened today is not an ordinary killing. It is a consequence of the total collapse of the rule of law which has been going on for the past four years." Malta is sometimes called "The Panama of the E.U." for its lax tax policies. It has been a favorite place for the Russian and Italian mobs to launder their money. Official corruption such as the payments from a foreign government to the prime minister exposed by Caruana Galizia is business as usual. But it isn't just organized crime that takes advantage of Malta's loose tax laws. Large corporations also seek to hide their profits there. A pan-European journalistic network called European Investigative Collaborations (EIC) is behind the Malta Files leak. It says it "dug into over 150,000 documents that show how international companies take advantage" of a tax regime in which firms can end up paying the lowest tax on profits in the EU 5 percent. The EIC claims that more than 53,000 Maltese-registered entities avoided between 1.5 billion and 2 billion in tax revenues. While regular income tax in Malta is 35 percent, a reduction is available for a shareholder if they don't live on the island or the company's activity don't take place there. The EIC says that makes Malta "a target for firms linked to the Italian mafia, Russian loan sharks and the highest echelons of the Turkish elite." When Finance Minister Edward Scicluna visited Germany last week, he told local press that Malta had "nothing to hide" regarding its tax system, Malta Today reported. Malta was embroiled in the 2016 Panama Papers revelations, the largest data leak in history. The list of suspects in Caruana Galizia's murder is a long one and includes the prime minister, organized crime, the Turkish government, and perhaps a foreign intelligence service who was benefiting from Malta's wild west financial industry. Her murder was a shock to the system in Malta that might lead to more investigations that would expose official corruption and links between the government and organized crime. In a remarkable post written for the Independent, Qasim Rashid, an author and a national spokesperson for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA, says the following about Islam's "glorious" treatment of womankind. (Let's leave aside the fact that many in Islam treat the Ahmadiyya sect as heretical, for that's an internal fight among Muslims.) Rashid leaves much out, even in the verses he summarizes. In a recent internationally broadcast lecture given live before roughly 6,000 Muslim women, the Khalifa of Islam said, "Chapter four, verse two of the Holy Quranclarifies that women were not created out of the body of a man or from his rib. Rather, the Quran testifies to the fact that men and women were created from a single soul and are of the same kind and species." Thus, the Quran 4:2 first establishes men and women as equal beings. Chapter 4:20 then forbids men from forcing a woman to act against her will, thereby ensuring women maintain autonomy and self-determination. This verse also commands men to consort with women in kindness, forbidding men from so much as thinking ill of their wives. This preempts emotional and mental abuse. Chapter4:35 furthermore prevents violence against women by forcing men to control themselves and never resort to physically harming women preempting physical abuse. The Quran further obliges men to provide for a woman's every financial need, while holding that anything a woman earns is hers alone preempting financial abuse. And when it comes to the Islamic concept of Hijab, it is men who are first commanded to never gawk at women, and instead guard their private parts and chastity, regardless of how women choose to dress pre-empting sexual abuse. Where to begin with all the information left out? (Let's use four orthodox translations side by side). First, the point about womankind being taken out of the rib is that side by side, mankind and womankind work together in equality. She is not taken from his head or his foot. Second, Quran 4:2 is about orphans and their wards treating them fairly, not the relations between mankind and womankind. Third, Quran 4:20 is about exchanging one wife for another. When the man does so, he must treat the repudiated wife fairly. It's hard to imagine wife-exchanging as exemplifying Islam's honoring of women. Fourth, Quran 4:34, just one verse before 4:35, gives permission to a husband to hit his wife if he follows certain steps first. So it is impossible to see how 4:35 "prevents violence against women by forcing men to control themselves and never resort to physically harming women pre-empting physical abuse." To my knowledge, Islam is the only world religion that permits wife-beating in its holy book. Fifth, only Muhammad could claim the right to marry just about anyone he desired: "the Prophet desire to ask her in marriage a privilege for thee only, not for the (rest of) believers" (Quran 33:50). Sixth, Muhammad dreamed about a six-year-old girl, Aisha, before he married her at nine years young. Narrated Aisha: Allah's Apostle said (to me), "You were shown to me in a dream. An angel brought you to me, wrapped in a piece of silken cloth, and said to me, 'This is your wife.' I removed the piece of cloth from your face, and there you were. I said to myself. 'If it is from Allah, then it will surely be.'" (Bukhari, Marriage, 007.062.057, with small mechanical adjustments. The parenthetical comments are the translator's. Cf. ibid. 007.062.015) It's not clear that that passage from the traditions is talking about lust, but dreaming of a girl comes awfully close to this vice. Rashid is sixteen years too late. After 9/11, several of us wrote about all these strange and even oppressive verses in the Quran and traditions. He cannot rehabilitate Islam by referencing its holy book until he announces that much of it has an expiration date back in the seventh century. He can develop theology from it and even religious rituals, but not cultural customs and laws or Muhammad's dubious example. James Arlandson's website is Live as Free People, where he has posted Thirty Sharia Laws, Ten Shariah Laws that Oppress Women, Christianity is fastest growing religion in world, and Rescuing Noah's ark from the flood of science. The last at-large suspect in the murder of border patrol agent Brian Terry was captured in Mexico and will soon be extradited to the United States. Terry was killed in a gun battle with a drug cartel "rip crew" in 2010 in southern Arizona. It was later discovered that two of the weapons used by cartel members were part of the infamous "Fast and Furious" gun-walking program. Breitbart: "Border Patrol Agent Terry will be remembered always and he will forever be a part of the U.S. Border Patrol family," Chief Carla Provost wrote in the internal memo. "This latest arrest achieved our ultimate goal of bringing all the perpetrators involved in Agent Terry's death to account." After obtaining the information about the arrest of Astoria, Breitbart Texas reached out to Agent Terry's family for comment. "One of my daily prayers was answered," Terry's sister, Michelle Terry-Balogh said in an exclusive interview. "All of the suspects that were involved in Brian's murder are now in custody. As this is only another step forward, we cannot be more pleased to hear the news of the last suspect who was captured in Mexico over the weekend." "This was the final rip crew suspect that was wanted in connection to his death," Michelle explained. "This fight is far from over as we still continue to hold the previous administration accountable for their botched gun program that lead to Brian's and agent Zapata's murders. Not only do these men and their families deserve the truth but so do the American people. This is why President Trump needs to have the executive privileges lifted so we can expose the corruption, lies, and betrayal they have committed to us all." "I want to thank all agencies that assisted in making this mission possible," Terry-Balogh concluded. Terry's other sister, Kelly Terry-Willis added, "My family is very happy to hear the news. I have prayed for this and hope Justice is swift. We still have the government to come clean with answers as well." Breitbart Texas reported extensively on the murder of Agent Terry and the subsequent investigations and arrests. Agent Terry was on patrol with members of his team, searching for Mexican "rip-crews" that come into the U.S. to steal drug shipments or rob illegal aliens. When his team found the rip-crew, a gun battle ensued and Brian Terry was mortally wounded. He later died from his wounds. Two of the weapons found were eventually tied to a gun running operation that became known to the world as "Fast and Furious." The stated goal was to put guns into the hands of criminals and track them back to Mexico to discover the distribution network. Two such firearms ended up at the scene of Terry's murder. No U.S. government official ever lost his job as a result of the botched gun-running program. Even at the ATF, several agents were only disciplined for "misconduct." The Obama administration never came clean about the extent of the program, or even whose idea it was, despite two congressional investigations that were stonewalled by the White House. At least the family of Brian Terry will receive a small measure of justice. But what they really want an explanation of who in the U.S. government was responsible for Brian Terry's death will never come to pass. Like the IRS scandal, Benghazi, and other scandals during the Obama administration, the president and his people were successful in blocking, impeding, undermining, and ignoring congressional investigators as they sought to find the truth in these matters. Obama's efforts undermined the constitutional duty of congressional oversight to the point where it was largely meaningless. The former president also set a dangerous precedent, as bureaucrats responsible for flagrant violations of the law and guilty of lying to Congress were never punished. Brian Terry did not die in vain. His sacrifice will be acknowledged and honored. But those who were ultimately responsible for his death will go unpunished. Tom Fitton, the head of Judicial Watch, is not a man given to hyperbole. So the language he is using to describe the behavior of the FBI is worth paying attention to. Speaking to Lou Dobbs on Fox Business Network, he raised serious doubts about the integrity of the nation's premier police agency. J.W.'s initial requests for documents related to the notorious secret tarmac meeting between Loretta Lynch and Bill Clinton while the DoJ was investigating Hillary's emails encountered what looks like deliberate obstruction, with no documents allegedly found. Yet a later request turned up documents that were related: 30 of them. The FBI is now redacting them, prior to release, a process that itself is raising suspicions. Fitton did not mince words describing the situation. This is a fundamental question whether we can trust our nation's law enforcement agency, the FBI and the justice Department not to break the law and be dishonest. Here is the video segment. A rush transcript via Grabien follows at the end of this piece. Judge Napolitano, commenting on the situation with Eric Shawn on Fox News, made the solid point that the very existence of 30 documents related to an allegedly spontaneous meeting about grandchildren makes no sense at all. We have been fed lies about a meeting that should never have happened. Here is the segment, and a rush transcript follows that of Fitton, below: Fitton transcript: The FBI located 3 some documents connected to the 2016 tarmac meeting between former president Bill Clinton and attorney general Loretta lynch. The papers detailing the interaction will be released next month. Judicial Watch requesting those documents. They were told by the justice Department those documents don't exist. Guess what? The Justice Department shall I say lied or found out they were found out they were inaccurate. Another victory and important one for the public's right to know. So congratulations. How can this be that justice Department doesn't know about these documents or chooses to straight out lie to you and subsequently all of us? >> You have to ask what's going on. We had two lawsuits against the Justice Department and FBI. The FBI said they couldn't find anything, we finally got some document showing the justice Department was talking to the FBI about the clinton-lynch tarmac meeting. So, the FBI said, looks like we might have documents. We're going to reopen your case. And that's when we found out they had 30 document. I don't think this an oversight. I think we caught them red-handed. Lou: As you have done more often than otherwise. This tells you what the problem is. The American people have a government that is corrupt. The American people have a government it's not necessary because someone takes money but is so politicized it's politically corrupt and ideologically corrupt. It's stunning stuff. By the way, now that you have got document. When do you actually get them and what shape will they be in? Will there be word on the pages when you get them? >> That's the big yes. The government says they need up to November 30 to turn the documents to us. Lou: They can't read 30 pages in less than a month and a half. >> Director WRAY who is the new head of the FBI. I would think he might want to ask questions about what happened here. We were told when Comey was FBI director, the idea they didn't have document strains credulity. A responsible official needs to look at this. This is a fundamental question whether we can trust our nation's law enforcement agency, the FBI and the justice Department not to break the law and be dishonest. We are in the middle of a court case and they tell us they don't have documents. What are we supposed to do, go to the court every time and say the FBI is lying? Lou: Tell me why the American people should have any more belief about the FBI than that's where investigations go to die. I can't think of a major scandal that's been resolved by the investigation of the FBI. I am talking about going back to the fast and furious, Benghazi, they never reach a conclusion. There is never a report. This is something rancid and wrong at justice. >> Especially when the justice Department other FBI are implicated in the scandals, you are never going to get the truth or it will be difficult to do so. Last week we were asking for the Comey memos that he supposedly wrote. The Justice Department said we can't have one of them, any of them because it would interfere with Mueller's investigation. So now the Justice Department is working with Mueller to keep material Comey leaked away from the American people. Lou: And the Senate and house leadership haven't got the guts to say enough and end it now. We'll have to get you back here soon. We'll take it up. Fitton. Napolitano transcript: Chicago, the premier city of the American heartland, is in deep trouble, with the police losing control of the streets and now the jail. Now comes word of an effort to strangle the supply of affordable housing in the city. W.J. Kennedy of Chicago City Wire reports: Two weeks ago at the Mount Pisgah Baptist Church in Bronzeville, a coalition of 20 community groups calling themselves the "Lift the Ban Coalition" led a meeting to push for the repeal of the state's 1997 Rent Control Preemption Act, and for enactment of a rent control program. That's right: the State of Illinois actually pre-empted the power of the City of Chicago (or any other Illinois municipality) to impose rent control. But State Rep Will Guzzardi, officially a Democrat but very socialist in outlook, introduced a bill to overthrow the ban. Imagine! Before the world's eyes, Venezuela starves and collapses into a brutish fight for daily survival, all because price controls have pushed prices below the cost of production. When that happens, no more production, which means starvation, no toilet paper, and increasing panic and repression. With rent control, the process takes a bit longer. First, maintenance is cut by landlords, because rent revenue does not cover everything. Then properties deteriorate. Sooner or later, the existence of the building becomes a liability, and it will burn or otherwise be removed from the housing stock because nobody will take care of a building that does not generate net positive revenue. The lethal combination of crime, poverty, and rent control caused New York City's South Bronx to erupt in flames, as abandoned buildings were torched one after another, even during the 1977 World Series played at Yankee Stadium there. Even without this incentive, Chicago is already slumming itself up. Orkin has named Chicago the "rattiest city" in America for the third year running: The pest control company released this year's list of cities and Chicago is at the top for the third year in a row. The rankings are based on the number of treatments performed by Orkin from Sept. 15, 2016-Sept. 15, 2017. Mayor Rahm Emanuel's budget for next year includes adding more city crews and an extra half a million dollars to get rid of the rats. Full list of rattiest cities in U.S.: 1. Chicago 2. New York 3. Los Angeles 4. San Francisco - Oakland 5. Washington, DC 6. Philadelphia 7. Detroit 8. Baltimore 9. Seattle - Tacoma 10. Dallas - Ft. Worth 11. Denver 12. Minneapolis - St. Paul 13. Cleveland - Akron 14. Atlanta 15. Boston Correct me if I am wrong, but I don't see any cities run by Republicans on this list. In fairness, Chicago has been fighting rats of all sorts for years. Who can forget this classic picture of the (now incarcerated) governor of Illinois, taking out the garbage in his alley? Hat tip: Peter von Buol The Texas Land Commission, now run by George P. Bush, is remodeling the Alamo in a project called "Reimagining the Alamo." Not everyone is happy about it. According to John Griffing, writing in the Daily Caller: Texas and its most sacred and iconic historical sites like the Alamo are under constant attack by patronizing pseudo-intellectuals who only seem to care about history when it involves blind and uncritical acceptance of "alternative facts" about our state's past. Historians now "know" that the Lone Star State (along with the entire American Southwest) is built on land "stolen" from Mexico, that Jim Bowie was a staggering drunk and that Davy Crockett "may" have surrendered to the Mexican Army instead of being killed in action swinging "Old Betsy." For some, these "alternative facts" make the Alamo a symbol of racism and imperialism that should be "re-imagined," at least according to the Texas Land Office. Griffing is (and others are) right that the old Franciscan mission's most significant event was the fight to the death for freedom by 189 Texas patriots, including Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett in 1836, and that should be what is most treasured and featured. The Land Commission thinks different and wants all eras associated with the Alamo to be treated with equal weight. There's some merit in recognizing and remembering the Franciscan missions as well, given that they were pivotal to Texas's settlement in a difficult territory, as well as the role of the native peoples, (some of whom were cannibals), but the pivotal event the one that opened the gateway to the U.S. becoming a continental power certainly includes the Alamo. Treating all of these events as equal not only smacks of political correctness, but also makes little sense from a tourism perspective, which is what the whole remodeling is about in the first place. Tourists come to the Alamo to see the place where the Texas patriots made their last stand. Particularly galling is the Land Commission's plan to remove the Cenotaph, the traditional monument to the defenders of the Alamo, to some basement, to "protect" it. The commission says it really does mean to restore it, which opponents aren't buying. And the intransparency of contract work with NGOs is disturbing. In Los Angeles, we all know that these partnerships in the restoration of the old mission in Los Angeles near Olvera Street was rife with thievery from these NGOs. All the same, there may be some overheatedness in this ferocious desire to honor and protect Texas's history. The commission itself says the spot will be preserved as the sacred place it is to Texans and won't be turned into a cafe-laden Disneyland of tourist-trap attractions as had been claimed. The commission actually makes a pretty good case that the Alamo as it is has become a tourist trap, as these photos on its front page show. The plans to put a glass wall around it actually sound pretty good, even though the commission has said it has scrapped those plans, probably due to public pressure. The glass floor to reveal the original Franciscan mission layout seems good, too, although it may interfere with restoring the Alamo to the way the Texas patriots viewed it, so the conflict is obvious. What does it show here? It shows that neither the Bushes nor the bureaucrats are particularly trusted to preserve the heritage of the Alamo in a way that allows for Texas heroism. They may think they are doing the right thing, but there is significant fury from the public and hair-trigger conclusions about what is intended. That's a sign of distrust. And with Antifa getting away with dismantling symbols of the Old South's heritage with the removal of Confederate statues in the name of a "reimagined" political correctness, it may be a well placed distrust. Bush and company had better go well out of their way to start including people who cherish Texas history in his efforts instead of just malcontents and political correctness aficionados. Or else the discontent will just get bigger. The New York Times exposure of Harvey Weinstein's decades-long reign of predatory sexual behavior toward young women has led to a long line of actresses coming forward to tell their own horror stories about Weinstein. Incredibly, Weinstein's employment contract with the Weinstein Company protected him from firing for sexual abuse allegations (TMZ 10/12/17) as long as Weinstein reimbursed the company for any settlements paid for his behavior. How many of these contract clauses exist in Hollywood? Previously, Woody Allen was arguably the sleaziest Hollywood fixture, eclipsing even the sordid story of Roman Polanski drugging and having sex with a 13-year-old girl before fleeing to Europe in 1978. In 1992, Allen's "relationship" with his and Farrow's adopted daughter Soon-Yi Previn, then in her late teens, was exposed when Farrow discovered "a stack of Polaroids taken by him of her daughter, her legs spread in full frontal nudity" (Mia's Story Vanity Fair 11/1992). Allen eventually married Previn, and they remained married to this day. Ronan Farrow, Farrow's and Allen's biological son, corroborated the Times story with an equally explosive New Yorker piece a mere five days later, the result of his own ten-month investigation. This was not the first time Mr. Farrow confronted sexual abuse in Hollywood. In a piece for the Hollywood Reporter in May 2016, he lamented "the culture of acquiescence" regarding his own father, the aforementioned Woody Allen, as well as Bill Cosby. Farrow noted the media's squashing of his sister Dylan Farrow's allegation of sexual abuse by Allen: In fact, when my sister first decided to speak out, she had gone to multiple newspapers most wouldn't touch her story. An editor at the Los Angeles Times sought to publish her letter with an accompanying, deeply fact-checked timeline of events, but his bosses killed it before it ran. The editor called me, distraught, since I'd written for them in the past. There were too many relationships at stake. It was too hot for them. He fought hard for it. Farrow reflected on how the media has historically treated sexual abuse victims and powerful men and how even he initially tried to suppress his sister's allegations: My sister's decision to step forward came shortly after I began work on a book and a television series. It was the last association I wanted. Initially, I begged my sister not to go public again and to avoid speaking to reporters about it. I'm ashamed of that, too. With sexual assault, anything's easier than facing it in full, saying all of it, facing all of the consequences. The exposure of Weinstein's horrific behavior can only be a good thing for Hollywood and American society generally. Mr. Farrow's examination of the media's historic fear of reporting these allegations against Hollywood power brokers is nothing short of brilliant. Exposing the prevalence of sexual abuse in Hollywood will surely empower more victims to come forward, bring accountability to their abusers and diminishing sexual abuse in Hollywood and elsewhere. Follow "Grizzly Joe" on Twitter at @OccupyBawlStree. On the cliff face of a sandstone mountain, visible from the ancient Silk Road near the town of Bamiyan in Afghanistan, are two massive voids left by two monumental statues of Buddha that once stood there. In 2001, the nearly 1,500 year old statues were blown to bits by the Taliban in an act of violence that shook the entire world, and set a disturbing precedent which has been imitated in recent years by Islamic State fighters in the Middle East. For a long time, Buddhism was an important religion in the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia, having been introduced during the early Kushan period, in the 1st century. Along the Silk Road, on which Bamiyan lies, are several Buddhist monasteries, chapels and sanctuaries constructed inside caves carved into the mountains. In several of the caves and niches, often linked by galleries, there are remains of wall paintings and seated Buddha figures. The 175 feet high Buddha statue in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, destroyed in 2001. Photo credit: Afghanistan Embassy The two most prominent figures were the giant Buddha statues destroyed in 2001. The larger of the two stood 175 feet tall, and was one of the largest standing Buddha carvings in the world. The second figure was also enormous and measured 120 feet in height. Both figures were carved into niches of the cliff side in high relief. The main bodies were hewn directly from the sandstone cliffs, but details were modeled in mud mixed with straw, coated with stucco. This coating had worn away a long time ago, but in the early days, it served to enhance the expressions of the faces, hands, and folds of the robes. Both statues were originally paintedthe larger one in carmine red and the smaller one in multiple colors. The area near the heads of both Buddha figures and the area around the larger Buddhas feet were carved in the round, allowing worshippers to walk around as a form of worship. Much of what we know about the monumental Buddha sculptures comes from the travelogue of the Chinese monk Hsuan-Tsang, who traveled to Bamiyan in the 7th century. Hsuan-Tsang described Bamiyan as a flourishing Buddhist center "with more than ten monasteries and more than a thousand monks. He also noted that both Buddha figures were decorated in dazzling golden color and adorned with brilliant gems. Historians believe that the monumental Buddha sculptures were carved into the cliffs between the 3rd to 6th centuries A.D. They were perhaps the most famous cultural landmarks of the region attracting numerous pilgrims from all around. Photo credit: txmx 2/Flickr After the Islamic invasion in the 9th century, the presence of a large Buddhist cultural icon in Afghanistan greatly disturbed the Muslim rulers. The 17th century Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, and the 18th century Persian king Nader Afshar, both tried to destroy the statues by using heavy artillery but failed to inflict any noticeable damage. It was the Afghan king Abdur Rahman Khan who eventually managed to destroyed its face. In 2001, the leader of the Taliban movement ordered that all statues and non-Islamic shrines in the different areas of the Islamic Emirate must be destroyed. Accordingly, in March the same year, Taliban fighters laid explosives at the base and the shoulders of the two Buddhas and blew them to pieces. Later in an interview, the Taliban supreme leader Mullah Omar defended his actions by saying: I did not want to destroy the Bamiyan Buddha. In fact, some foreigners came to me and said they would like to conduct the repair work of the Bamiyan Buddha that had been slightly damaged due to rains. This shocked me. I thought, these callous people have no regard for thousands of living human beings - the Afghans who are dying of hunger, but they are so concerned about non-living objects like the Buddha. This was extremely deplorable. That is why I ordered its destruction. Had they come for humanitarian work, I would have never ordered the Buddha's destruction. The only silver lining in the cloud was, that after the destitution, several new caves and wall paintings were discovered, including fragments of a previously unknown 62-foot long reclining Buddha. Two women walk past the huge cavity where one of the ancient Buddhas of Bamiyan used to stand. Photo credit: DVIDSHUB/Flickr Photo credit: carlos Ugarte/Flickr The taller Buddha of Bamiyan before (left picture) and after destruction (right). Photo credit: A Lezine/UNESCO Photo credit: Pierre Le Bigot/Flickr The Buddha of Bamiyan, circa 1975. Photo credit: Pierre Le Bigot/Flickr Some of the cave monasteries dug into the cliff side of the Bamiyan valley. Photo credit: Babak Fakhamzadeh/Flickr Photo credit: Johannes Zielcke/Flickr The smaller Buddha, after destruction. Photo credit: Alessandro Balsamo/Wikimedia View of the rock where monasteries and Buddhas are carved. Photo credit: UNESCO/G. Gonzales Brigas Sources: Wikipedia / Khan Academy FREE SHOW!!! L.A. WITCH (Suicide Squeeze Records) In the dimly lit interior of a small nightclub, where the stale smell of a thousand extinguished cigarettes drowns out the smell of spilt beer and broken dreams, a band plays against a backdrop of cheap golden tinsel. Outside, palm trees line the nights horizon. In the years to come, the streets will swell into highways and interstates, but for now Los Angeles is still a young city growing daily with transplants from across the United States, all looking for a new life. Its still a city largely cut off from the rest of the country, and in the years before the Manson family forever tarnishes the infinite hope of the Western enclave and before the Hells Angels of Altamont interrupt rock n rolls peaceful trajectory with unprecedented violence, there is still a dreamy California sound for those dark rooms suffused with neon light. The three women of L.A. Witch wouldnt be born for several decades, but their sound transports you back to those warm Californian nights in smoky rooms. The name is a partial misnomer. Though the band hails from Los Angeles, they do not partake in any sort of witchcraft. Yet their ability to conjure a specific time and place through their sound does suggest a kind of magic. On their eponymous debut album, L.A. Witchs reverb-drenched guitar jangle and sultry vocals conjure the analog sound of a collectors prized 45 from some short-lived footnote cult band. The melodies forgo the bubblegum pop for a druggy haze that straddles the line between seedy glory and ominous balladry; the production cant afford Phil Spectors wall-of-sound, but the instruments simple beauty provides an economic grace that renders studio trickery unnecessary; the lyrics seem more descendent of Johnny Cashs first-person morality tales than the vacuous empty gestures of pre-fab pop bands. This isnt music for the masses; its music for miscreants, burnouts, down-and-out dreamers, and obsessive historians. Album opener Kill My Baby Tonight is the perfect introduction to the bands marriage of 60s girls-in-the-garage charm and David Lynchs surreal exposes of Southern Californias underbelly. Sade Sanchezs black velvet vocals disguise the malicious intent of this murder ballad, with the thumping pulse of bassist Irita Pai, the slow-burn build of drummer Ellie English, and Sanchezs desert guitar twang helping beguile the listener into becoming a willing accomplice to the narrators crimes. Brian follows the opening track with a similarly graceful, if not somewhat ominous, slow-mo take on a well-worn jukebox 7. Its a vibe that permeates the entire album, from the early psychedelic hue of 13th Floor Elevators on tracks like You Love Nothing, through the motorik beat and fuzzed-out licks of Drive Your Car, to the grittier permutation of Mazzy Stars sleepy beauty on Baby In Blue Jeans. L.A. Witch was recorded at Hurley Studios in Costa Mesa and mixed in Highland Park, Los Angeles, though early incarnations of several songs from the album originally surfaced on limited edition singles released over the last several years. The bands initial aspirations were humble. We never really thought we would or could release an album, the band says. We were really just finding each other and finding our sound. But after touring nearly non-stop for the last three years, L.A. Witch developed a singularly seductive, haunting, and wistful sound that enamored the garage rock, dream pop, psych, and broader indie communities. Suicide Squeeze Records is proud to release their debut album on September 8th, 2017. L.A. Witch is available on CD, digital formats, and 1500 LPs on translucent pink vinyl with a download card. https://lawitches.bandcamp.com/ Local Support: Holy Glories https://holyglories.bandcamp.com/ The Angel Babies https://theangelbabies.bandcamp.com/ Presented in conjunction with Townie Productions (ANSA) - Rome, October 17 - The Rome-based United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) said Tuesday that a groundbreaking European Union-funded programme is providing monthly cash assistance that is helping around one million refugees in Turkey, most of them from war-torn Syria. The Emergency Social Safety Net (ESSN) programme provides refugee families with debit cards to cover their basic needs such as food, rent, medicine and clothes. The cards can be used to withdraw cash from an automated teller machine (ATM), or to purchase items in shops like any other debit card. Monitoring over the first year of ESSN shows that families spend their cash assistance primarily on food, utilities and rent. The ESSN programme is a partnership between the European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), the WFP, the Turkish Red Crescent, and the Turkish Government. "Life was hard before we got this card," said Macide, a Syrian refugee who lives in Hatay with her husband and children. "But now we're getting by. Now, we can pay the rent, the bills and buy food every month." It is currently the biggest cash assistance operation for refugees anywhere in the world. "Today is a milestone for the life-changing results achieved by our biggest ever aid programme; and for the EU delivering on its commitments to Turkey," said Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides. "We have made a difference for a staggering 1 million people already. With the commitment and work of our partners, the impact of the programme grows by the day. "Turkey continues to host the largest refugee population in the world. It is our humanitarian and moral duty to help refugees that have fled war and persecution". (ANSA) - Rome, October 17 - The Democratic Party (PD) on Tuesday came out against Bank of Italy GOvernor Ignazio Visco over his handling of Italy's recent banking crisis, saying a "new phase was needed". A PD motion on the Bank of Italy debated in the Lower House on Tuesday said that the crisis "could have been mitigated with more incisive and rapid prevention and management activity". It said that the appointment of the governor of the central bank was highly delicate because the effectiveness of the Bank of Italy's oversight activities has been thrown into doubt in recent years by repeated bank crises. Asked if the motion was against BoI Governor Visco, PD spokesman Matteo Richetti said: "The PD won't go into the person but asks for a new phase for the Bank of Italy. The PD won't go into the merit of a decision that is up to the government and the premier but it can't skirt a judgement and the motion traces the need to mark a new phase. The 'who you do it with' is up to the government". Consumer group Adusbef, which has been campaigning to get Visco sacked, said "all of the Bank of Italy managers" who handled the crisis should also go. Anti-euro, anti-migrant Northern League leader Matteo Salvini said "(PD leader and ex-premier Matteo) Renzi should shut up, the PD and the lack of checks are the cause of the Italian banks' disaster". "Let them all go home, Visco and the government...it's clear that the PD, too, is to blame for the catastrophe and the damage to 300,000 savers". Almost 700 companies moved out of Catalonia since 1/10 Mutua and Caixabank take insurance away from Generalitat members (ANSAmed) - MADRID, OCTOBER 17 - A total of 691 companies have moved their registered offices from Catalonia to other regions since October 2, following the independence referendum. Director of Business Registrars Ana del Valle gave this figure in speaking to the Cadena Cope radio station. Statistics show that, in the third quarter of the year, the establishment of new companies in the region dropped by 26.8% compared with a 11% drop across the country on the previous year. The insurance companies Mutua and Caixabank have meanwhile rescinded contracts covering civil liability of the Catalan government and parliament. The Caixa Aleslas company issued a statement saying that the decision was made due to ''the risk produced by recent events in Catalonia'' and due to the uncertainty sparked by the 'Ley de Transitoriedad', which was passed by the Catalan Chamber of deputies and suspended by the Constitutional Court. (ANSAmed). MADRID - Sixteen sub-Saharan migrants were rescued at the Port of Cadiz after they were found in a shipping container aboard a Liberian mercantile ship that left Ghana 10 days ago and had stopped at the Port of Algeciras. The migrants, all of whom were adult males, were found crowded in the container in extreme conditions aboard the container ship "Panther", which docked on Sunday at the APM Terminal in Algeciras, said police sources cited by Spanish daily Europa Sur. Shouts coming from a caisson stowed between the warehouse and the cargo ship's cover caught the attention of a team of unloaders at the port, which led to the discovery of the men. Despite the hard conditions during the long crossing, the migrants were treated at the port without needing to be transferred to hospital. They were subsequently taken to a temporary holding centre to await repatriation.(ANSAmed). Catalonia protest against arrest of pro-independence leaders Regional gov't insists it will offer only dialogue to Madrid (ANSAmed) - BARCELLONA, OCTOBER 17 - All of Catalonia paused at midday on Tuesday to protest the arrest ordered on Monday evening by a Spanish judge of the pro-independence leaders Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart. Gatherings were held in all the cities of the region in front of town councils and workplaces. In Barcelona, thousands of people took part in a gathering in Sant Jaume square in front of the government headquarters, chanting "Libertat!" and Els Segadors. Regional president Carles Puigdemont was in the crowd. Then Catalan government has called the arrests ''a democratic shame''. ''What was not dared during the years of Franco, a 21st-century court has done,'' he said. ''Two innocent people have been deprived of their freedom by a court without the jurisdiction to do so for inexistent crimes.'' The Catalan government has also decided to respond to Madrid's second ultimatum, the deadline of which is Thursday, by continuing to say that it will engage in dialogue and not changing in any substantial manner its first response, which was deemed ''invalid'' by the Spanish government. Spokesman Jordi Turull has said that the government will ask Madrid '''whether it wants to talk. Yes or no?''. ''On the basis of this response, we will act.'' Turull added that ''we are fully committed to the results of the independence referendum''. (ANSAmed). King of Jordan calls for more security cooperation (ANSAmed) - AMMAN, OCTOBER 17 - King Abdullah of Jordan called for cross border partnership to be boosted in the face of growing extremism and crime, a royal palace said today. The monarch expressed his support for EU strong relation with the kingdom in security during a meeting for the higher council of the Association of European and Mediterranean Gendarmeries and Police Forces with Military Status (FIEP) being held in Amman. The security meeting, which ends tomorrow, brings top generals and police officials from the EU and beyond to discuss regional issues of mutual concern and means of improving security situation in the region. For their part, participants in the meeting commended the King's role in enhancing security and stability in the region and the world, highlighting the importance of boosting coordination among security and military institutions over various international issues of concern. FIEP is an association of national gendarmeries or affiliated corps, encompassing the European and Mediterranean Gendarmeries and Police Forces with Military Status. The goal of FIEP - which started with the corps of France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal - is to broaden and strengthen mutual relationships, to promote an innovative and active reflection on the forms of police cooperation, and to value its model of organisation and structures abroad. FIEP wants to be recognised by the European authorities as a forum and a structure of separate police cooperation, capable of leading concrete actions. (ANSAmed). TUNIS - The second session of the second round of talks between the dialogue committees of the House of Representatives of Tobruk (HoR) and the High Council of State of Tripoli took place Monday in Tunis to define draft changes to the Libyan political agreement forged in Skhirat, Morocco, in December 2015. The talks are part of the first phase of the "Action Plan for Libya" recently agreed upon at the United Nations by its special envoy for Libya, Ghassan Salame. Salame coordinated the session, which on Monday "reached a pivotal moment when both sides came close to a clearer understanding of the selection-mechanism for the Presidency Council", according to a statement from the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). The meeting was adjourned to give both sides the opportunity to consult with the Dialogue Committees of the House of Representatives and the High Council of State, UNSMIL said. "The Joint Drafting Committee recognizes that much work remains ahead and will continue meetings and internal consultations tomorrow, fully aware of the time factor and the aspirations of the Libyan people to enter a stage of certainty embodied only in a stable, capable and fair state," said the statement released Monday. It said Monday's meeting was characterised by a "strong push to advance the finalization of the amendments to the Libyan Political Agreement".(ANSAmed). Two Catalan independence leaders arrested Presidents of CNA and Omnium (ANSAmed) - MADRID, OCTOBER 17 - A Spanish judge ordered the arrests of Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart, presidents of Catalan pro-independence civil society organisations the Catalan National Assembly (CNA) and Omnium, respectively, with charges of "sedition" for peaceful demonstrations in Barcelona on September 20 and 21, said Catalan public broadcaster TV3. Following their arrests, Catalan President Carles Puigdemont tweeted: "Spain incarcerates the leaders of Catalan civil society for having organised peaceful demonstrations. Unfortunately there are political prisoners once again". CNA Vice President Agusti Alcoberro criticised the arrests and said the two "political hostages are in the hands of the Spanish government". Alcoberro launched an appeal to the people of Catalonia to mobilise.(ANSAmed). BarcelonaTogether with TV3 and the Mossos d'Esquadra, one of the objectives of invoking Article 155 of the Spanish Constitution is to control Catalan schools. And after Spanish Foreign Minister Alfonso Dastis --among other leaders-- claimed in an interview on French TV CNews that the Spanish language is "discriminated against" in Catalan schools, Catalonias schools and the Ministry of Education are considering legal action against the culprits of all of these attacks on the school system. "Teachers are sick and tired of all the lying and the nonsense", said Francina Marti, President of the Rosa Sensat Teachers Association. She added that they are studying different options, from filing a legal complaint against the attackers to organizing various kinds of mobilizations. Along the same lines, the Education Ministry yesterday issued a statement warning that it would take all "necessary" legal actions against the authors of the "attacks" on the Catalan school system that are harming teachers. "To protect students, teachers, and the whole of the Catalan school system", the Education Ministry has asked its legal counsel to take legal action against members of the Spanish government and various political parties for "falsehoods and unfounded accusations". A look at the data reveals that the basic competency evaluation tests for the fourth year of secondary school last year showed that students scored 77.2 out of 100 in Spanish, while in Catalan they scored 74.6. In the sixth year of primary school the results in Catalan (75.8) were higher than those for Spanish (73.4). After presenting the results, Joan Mateo, President of the Education System's Assessment Council, said that in primary school the majority of elements that make up the students' knowledge are those acquired at school, which means that Catalan "plays a more important role". However, he continued, "this changes in secondary schooling, because there is expanded exposure to Spanish, as it is very prevalent in our society today". As to the university entrance exams for last year, the average for Catalan was 6.19, while that for Spanish was 6.25. "Putting up with all the lies and slander against the schools isn't fair", insisted Francina Marti, who assured that they are receiving many requests from teachers demanding that they do "something". For the president of Rosa Sensat, "this is making the teachers' jobs more difficult", and she noted that Catalonia's educational model "has been ratified since the 1980s". "During all of the migratory waves the system has integrated students with a very broad-based educational system", said Marti, who added that there is "very high social cohesion". Along the same lines, Jaume Trilla, Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Barcelona (UB), said that before launching accusations of this type "they should have to be argued over and proven". "Language immersion is one of the great successes, unquestionable and resounding, of the Catalan school system: it has achieved the goal that all children in Catalonia can actively use both Spanish and Catalan", noted Trilla, who added that it is "small-minded for someone to want to destroy the current model for ideological reasons". Indignation at Somescola Somescola (We are Schools), a coordinating body for school organizations, said "they have deliberately lied about the work that schools are doing in Catalonia". They believe that there is a clear desire to "discredit" the school system and "justify" a future Spanish intervention via Article 155. Also coming out in support of Catalan schools was the Catalan Federation of Parents Associations (FAPAC), which stated that the attacks on the schools system appear to be "an orchestrated campaign" with "partisan interests". Seven years ago my oldest son posed a question to me: Hey, dad! Youre all going to sort out Catalonias problem with Spain, arent you? The dramatic chain of events that has recently unfolded, leaving most citizens in Catalonia and Spain perplexed and full of negative feelings, has led us to think that we are miles away from common ground and that, whilst unsatisfactory, the past is better than the future. Perhaps so. But the opposite might be possible, too. There is a silver lining to the drama that we are living today: it has awoken every conscience, even those that were irresponsibly asleep. Now that not only Catalans, but a great deal of people in Spain and Europe know that there is a serious problem, it is our duty to find an intelligent solution and, if possible (as our children demand), a definitive one. Whether we are on the right track to a satisfactory solution will depend largely on what happens over the next few days and it is president Puigdemonts job to respond to the diabolical dilemma posed by the Spanish governments formal request [to clarify if independence has been declared or not]. We know that his answer must be firm, with a firmness that can neutralise the violence that the Spanish government has unleashed since October 1. We also know that it must carry the strength that stems from holding the higher moral ground. And it is from that ground that we can build bridges with the citizens of Spain and Europe, who are our natural allies. 21st century Europe is also the Europe of citizens. We also know that Puigdemonts answer must be binary: either Yes, independence was declared or No, it wasnt. This would appear to be a further complication because the current situation requires nuance, but it might afford us the advantage of clarity, which goes hand in hand with firmness. An affirmative answer has an argument in its favour: it is the outraged voice of the people, shocked by the violence on October 1. But it has much going against it. The main downside is that it will lead to further violence. I am certain that Spains PP government will use a declaration of independence as an excuse to double up its efforts to finish off Catalan self-government and will use the criminal code against all citizens and institutions who allegedly espouse Catalan independence. We have entered a spiral that will upset social peace, which is the most precious asset, as far as Catalans are concerned. Anyone who disturbs social peace will lose the higher moral ground, even by being the passive recipient of violence. Likewise, anyone who strengthens social peace will gain the higher moral ground. The second argument against a unilateral declaration of independence is that of democratic radicalism. Independence supporters have been making one mistake since September 2015: they believe that they have a social majority in terms of popular vote when, in fact, their only majority is in parliamentary seats. The referendum which was held without Madrids consent is not enough to receive the endorsement of the international community. A declaration of independence or changing the legal framework would deprive the president of the moral authority in the eyes of Europe and most of the Catalan people, who are radically democratic. Equally important is the fact that a unilateral declaration would also be a blow to the social union with Spain. Besides a political tie, there is a social bond between Catalonia and Spain and these two do not always run parallel. 70 per cent of Catalans also feel Spanish, to some extent. Half of the Catalan people want a referendum and nearly a third would say Yes to independence. Spanish and Catalan people are united by tight cultural, historical, economic, family and sentimental bonds which, partly due to the disassociation I mentioned earlier, rise above the political divide to form a social union. This union is an asset which Catalan voters (including independence supporters) do not wish to lose and any political option should cherish and celebrate it, if they want to win over the majority in Catalonia. On October 1, the Spanish government dealt a blow to the social union with Spain like nobody had ever done in the preceding decades, trying to open up an internal rift that is at odds with the Catalan collective imaginary and does not exist in our society. The conduct of some Madrid-based media points in the same direction. It is a major error. But a unilateral declaration of independence, particularly because of its lack of democratic legitimacy, would have a negative impact on this union and, for the first time, the Catalans would be the separators. Finally, there is the argument of leaving the status quo behind. Following the Constitutional Courts ruling against the new Catalan Statute in 2010, many Catalans now say that they want a State that supports them and 75 per cent believe that Spain isnt it, while 45 per cent think we should build our own. The latest opinion polls suggest that 82 per cent of Catalans believe that a referendum is the best way to resolve this conflict (57 and 49 per cent in the case of Ciudadanos and PP voters, respectively). Indeed, it is: when you win by a majority of ballots, you have the moral authority and, therefore, the power, as opposed to a scenario of a unilateral declaration in the current circumstances. To me a unilateral declaration of independence is a colossal trap that would appease the separatist hotheads who are in a big hurry, but would push the president, the movement he leads and all Catalans into a corner. The Spanish people, too. Obviously, there are elements connected with the Spanish government who have been hoping for a unilateral declaration for a long time now, as this would provide the perfect excuse to take over the very foundations of Catalan society, such as our school system, public media and police force. This evidence alone should be enough for all of us, Catalans and Spaniards, to pause for a moment and reflect. At the same time a unilateral declaration would mean disobeying Europe as much as Spain, when the former (the umpire) has publicly asked Puigdemont not to declare independence, in what constitutes a worthy, lifesaving gesture. The president would cease to be everyones president and Catalonia would lose its self-rule for many years to come, I am afraid. This option would not be a step forward, but evidence that we cannot stop to speak firmly when required. There is no firmer action that non-violence and standing up for our democratic rights. If president Puigdemont chooses to preserve Catalonias self-rule, he will become the main guarantor of social peace and democratic rights in Catalonia, as well as everyones physical and material safety. He will state that he cannot admit the violence unleashed by the Spanish government on October 1 and, later, their denial of those very incidents. That violence jeopardised the safety of Catalans and the social union with the rest of Spain and individuals must be held accountable for it at all levels. He will also voice his willingness to preserve Catalonias institutions and self-rule, which are being threatened today. And he will make it clear that, as leader of his political party, he will not renounce any of his objectives. Catalonia demands a democratic solution. 82 per cent of Catalans want to vote. Spanish society should know that when Spanish police officers were about to baton-charge against the crowds on October 1, the people they were facing was chanting We are peaceful people, we just want to vote. The responsibility does not lie exclusively with president Puigdemont, but also with PM Rajoy, who should have applied Platos adage: Civilisation is the victory of persuasion over force. And persuasion, the absence of violence and the democratic solution would make it easy for me to give my oldest son a positive, hopeful answer. An article by the President of the ANC Jordi Sanchez, after being jailed without bail The road to freedom is not always an easy one. But when one is accompanied by so many people, it becomes a pleasure. The actions of Spains National Court come at a time when some may have thought that it would be a decisive factor in crushing the will of a people that has been expressed at the ballot box. Spain has rejected the road of politics and dialogue a thousand times. Only today, President Puigdemont gave them an opportunity to hold talks over the next two months. Spain is a strong state and it possesses all kinds of mechanisms of power with which to try to impose its version of the truth. We saw this to be true on 1 October, and not for the first time. It is clear that the path chosen by Spains rulers puts us under a lot of pressure, it causes us pain and forces us to be wary of every step we take. But we have the strength of the will of our people. We are unbeatable, if only we stay true to our goal. Our commitment to continue the road to freedom is clear and considered. We have nothing to hide. We wish to be a state in the form of a Republic. We are democrats above all else. Nobody can change us. At this point I would like to express my total confidence in any decisions that may be taken by the majority of our Parliament and the strategy in favour of dialogue proposed by President Puigdemont The National Courts decision to deprive us of our freedom is lacking in any legal or procedural basis. A decision already taken several days ago, according to the hundreds of comments made at the 12 October reception at Madrids Royal Palace and thousands of tweets and leaks prior to our appearance today before the court. It is a decision which Spain must justify before the worlds public opinion, before both houses of Parliament and the European courts. It is, quite simply, an outrage. The shame of Europe. I do not accept the sentence. I do not accept the decision to hold me on remand or the accompanying measures. The decision to deprive me of my freedom is unjust. The Spanish authorities ought to be ashamed of this decision. I look forward to the order announcing my release. I know it will come, it cannot be otherwise. When no crime has been committed, there can be no prison sentence. I ask, I hope, I demand a rectification of this great injustice that has been committed today by the Spanish courts. I know for sure that the citizens of my country will have a civic and peaceful response, as has always been the case. We have every right to express ourselves and demand our rights and liberties. But I also ask that we do so with an unwavering commitment to non-violence. We have never fallen into the trap of violence. We will not do so now, either. Perhaps there will be more arrest warrants, along with the suspension of self-government and perhaps Spain will take more aggressive political measures. Nevertheless, we mustnt lose our heads. If we remain as confident, committed, mobilised and civic-minded as we are right now, as we were on 1 October and during the subsequent strike on 3 October, we will all attain independence together. At this point I would like to express my total confidence in any decisions that may be taken by the majority of our Parliament and the strategy in favour of dialogue proposed by President Puigdemont and Vice President Junqueras on behalf of the entire government. They wish to see us divided, we must join forces in order to finish the final stretch. Without giving up or turning back, with a clear head and a brave heart, in order to keep moving forward now that we our goal is within our reach. Nobody can beat us if we remain together, strong, united in plurality, and peacefully mobilised in defence of freedom, democracy and the Catalan Republic. Freedom is either dignified and absolute, or it is not freedom! Forward together! The Chaine des Rotisseurs founded in Paris, in the year 1248, is the most exclusive and gastronomic worldwide recognised society. With only 25000 members worldwide (within these numbers only 7500 Professional members), the Chaine des Rotisseurs, recognises the classic culinary and quality of the table and food /beverage quality, presentation and innovation. Joao Menezes de Aguiar, executive gourmet General Manager, received the award saying he is fortunate as himself a professional Oficier Chaine Restaurateur, is assisted by Thomas Harker Executive Chef, also a professional Chaine Member Chef Rotisseur. Joao added, the top quality services offered by Al Bateen Executive Airport now recognised by the Chaine des Rotisseurs, is possible because of the team work between ADAC (Abu Dhabi Airports Company) and executive gourmet, offering a very high quality one stop shop for the Private Aviation. Earlier in the year, the Union Cabinet gave 'in-principle' nod to the disinvestment of the national carrier. Debt-reeling national airline Air India will not be sold as a single unit, according to sources familiar with the development. (File Photo) Mumbai: Debt-reeling national airline Air India will not be sold as a single unit, according to sources familiar with the development. Earlier in the year, the Union Cabinet gave in-principle nod to the disinvestment of the national carrier that has a debt of over Rs 50,000 crore. A group of minister are working out the modalities of the process. According to a report in Moneycontrol, each business of AI will be put out for sale as an independent unit, free from the overall debt. Ever since the announcement of its disinvestment, key players like IndiGo, Tata Sons, Bird Group have expressed their interest in buying the public carrier. The date for finalising the divestment process has not been fixed, said the sources. Earlier it was also reported that Air India would be sold to domestic buyers with individual, profit generating, business arms only. The government has already invited bids for appointment of legal and financial advisors to expedite the process. The group of ministers looking at the modalities are looking into various aspects like the treatment of unsustainable debts of the national carrier, hiving off certain assets to a shell company and de-merger and strategic disinvestment of three profit-making subsidiaries, among others. AIs five subsidiaries include Air India Express Limited (AIEL), Air India Air Transport Service Limited (AIATSL), Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL), Airline Allied Service Ltd (AASL) and Hotel Corporation of India (HCI). It also has a joint-venture with Singapore Air Transport Services (SATS) called AISATS. Govt says it has yet to decide what to do with carriers debt burden of Rs 55,000 crore. New Delhi: India would prefer selling state-owned Air India to a domestic buyer, a government source told reporters on Monday, as it finalises the privatisation process. Earlier this year the government said it would sell its stake in the loss-making airline but it has yet to decide what to do with the carriers debt burden of $8.5 billion that roughly amounts to Rs 55,000 crore. The government is mulling selling the airlines various businesses - which include ground-handling, domestic operations and international flights - in parts, the source said. The veteran actor said on Monday that she shared a "beautiful" relationship with Sunny Deol, Dharmendra's son from his first wife. Mumbai: Veteran actor Hema Malini said on Monday that she shared a "beautiful" relationship with Sunny Deol, Dharmendra's son from his first wife. The 69-year-old actor says there has always been curiosity regarding her equation with Sunny, which has been extremely wonderful and cordial. "Everyone wonders what kind of a relationship we (Sunny and I) are having. It is very beautiful and cordial. Whenever it is necessary, he (Sunny) is always there, along with Dharamji, especially when this accident happened," Malini said. The actor-parliamentarian met with a road accident near Dausa in Rajasthan in 2015 on her way from Agra to Jaipur, when her Mercedes allegedly rammed into an Alto. Malini reportedly fractured her nose and suffered injuries on her forehead. "He (Sunny) was the first person to come and see me at home and he saw that the right doctor is there for the stitches that were done on my face. I was really taken aback to see him showing so much interest. That shows what kind of a relationship we are having," Malini added. She was talking at the launch of her biography, 'Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl', written by Ram Kamal Mukherjee. The biography was launched by actor Deepika Padukone in the presence of Malini's family, including daughters Esha and Ahana Deol with their respective husbands, and industry colleagues Ramesh Sippy, Juhi Chawla and Subhash Ghai. The 47-year-old actor got run off the road by a car and had a bad fall from his bike following which he was rushed to a nearby hospital. Los Angeles: Gerard Butler is doing well after the actor was reportedly injured in a motorcycle accident. The 47-year-old actor got run off the road by a car and had a bad fall from his bike, People magazine reported from sources. Butler was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was treated for minor cuts and bruises. The actor suffered no broken bones. A representative for the '300' star said the incident occurred over a week ago and the actor is doing fine now. The external affairs ministry also said that five Indian crew members of 'Emerald Star' are in Irene, the Philippines. The Philippines' mission is bringing the survivors to Manila before repatriation to India. (Photo: AP) New Delhi: The government was using aircraft and vessels to search for 10 Indian crew members, who went missing after their cargo ship sank in the Pacific off the Philippines last week, the external affairs ministry said on Monday. They also said that five Indian crew members of 'Emerald Star' are in Irene, the Philippines, and country's mission is bringing them to Manila before repatriation to India. "Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of 'Emerald Star' in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen. Search for missing 10 crew members still ongoing using aircraft and vessels. We will keep posting regular updates on further developments," ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of 'Emerald Star' in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen pic.twitter.com/tKXWwKzfng Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 16, 2017 On Friday, the 33,205-tonne cargo ship Emerald Star with 26 Indian nationals on board sank off Okinawa. While 16 Indians were rescued, a search for the missing crew members was launched by Indian missions in the Philippines, Japan and China to locate them. The stealth corvette has been designed by the Indian Navys in-house body, the Directorate of Naval Design under Project 28 (Kamorta Class). Union minister for defence Nirmala Sitharaman interacts with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba at the commissioning ceremony of INS Kiltan into the Indian Navy at naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam. (Photo: PTI) Visakhapatnam: Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday commissioned the indigenously-built anti-submarine warfare stealth corvette INS Kiltan here, describing it as a shining armour in the countrys Make in India programme. Kiltan is the latest indigenous warship after Shivalik class, Kolkata class and sister ships INS Kamorta and INS Kadmatt to have joined the Indian Navys arsenal wherein a plethora of weapons and sensors have been integrated to provide a Common Operational Picture, an official release said. It is Indias first major warship to have a superstructure of carbon fibre composite material resulting in improved stealth features, lower top weight and maintenance costs, it said. Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Naval Command H.S. Bisht and other senior officers attended the commissioning of INS Kiltan at the naval dockyard at the Eastern Naval Command here. On the occasion, Ms Sitharaman said the Centre was committed to achieving self-reliance in the defence sector on the concept of Make in India and was taking all measures in this regard. INS Kiltan strengthens our defence system and will be a shining armour in our Make in India programme as it is totally bu-ilt here, the defence minister said. The governm-ent is committed to achie-ving self-reliance in the defence sector and prepared to provide any amo-unt of funds in this direction, she said. The stealth corvette has been designed by the Indian Navys in-house body, the Directorate of Naval Design under Project 28 (Kamorta Class). INS Kiltan is also the first major warship to have undertaken sea trials of all major weapons and sensors as a pilot project and is ready to be operationally deployed on the day of joining the Indian Navy/ In the future, it would also be installed with short range SAM system and carry an integral ASW helicopter. Waqf Board chairman said the construction of the statue would put Uttar Pradesh on the world map. The Adityanath government's has plans to build a 100-metre-high statue of Lord Ram on the banks of Saryu River in Ayodhya. (Photo: File | PTI) Lucknow: Emphasising that the construction of a Lord Ram statue in Ayodhya was a matter of pride for all Indians, the Uttar Pradesh Shia Central Waqf Board has said that it would gift 10 silver arrows for his statue as a mark of respect. "The UP government's decision to erect a statue of Lord Ram is commendable. In keeping with the 'Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb' of Awadh, these silver arrows will be just a token of admiration and esteem in which the Shias hold Lord Ram," the Board's chairman Waseem Rizvi wrote in a letter addressed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Rizvi added that the construction of the statue would put UP on the world map. The timing of Rizvi's statement is significant for the Uttar Pradesh government, as it comes in the wake of criticism of the state government's proposal by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) member Zafaryab Jilani and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi. Both leaders termed the move as "illegal and unconstitutional", saying that in a secular country, a government cannot involve or associate itself with a project like this (building the statue of a deity). "The Nawabs of this region always respected the temples in Ayodhya. In fact, the land for Hanuman Garhi in central Ayodhya was donated by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah in 1739, while the funds to construct the Hanuman Garhi temple were provided by Nawab Asif-ud-Daullah, between 1775 and 1793," Rizvi pointed out. Earlier, he had welcomed the Adityanath government's move to build a 100-metre-high statue of Lord Ram on the banks of Saryu River in Ayodhya. The Shia Board is one of the parties in the appeals pending in the Supreme Court pertaining to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case. Rizvi had earlier filed an affidavit before the Supreme Court saying that the Shia board had no problem if the mosque was built at a reasonable distance from the 2.73-acre disputed land, preferably in a Muslim dominated locality, in Ayodhya. The Shia Board had also claimed in an affidavit that the land, on which Babri Masjid had stood before it was demolished by a frenzied mob on December 6, 1992, belonged to it and that only it was entitled to negotiate an amicable solution with the consent of all stakeholders. The Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid issue has been pending in the Supreme Court since 2010, after the Allahabad High Court divided the land equally among 'Ram Lalla', the Nirmohi Akhara and the Sunni Central Waqf Board. Pawars advice was completely different from that of Ms Gandhi as he insisted that Mr Mukherjee should meet Thackeray. New Delhi: Former President Pranab Mukherjee has said that Congress chief Sonia Gandhi was upset with him over his meeting late Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray in the runup to the 2012 presidential election despite her advice against such an interaction. Revealing this in his book The Coalition Years, Mr Mukherjee said he had met Thackeray on the advice of Sharad Pawar of the NCP, a part of the Congress-led UPA-II government. He said that during his campaign visit to Mumbai on July 13, 2012, he had gone to meet Thackeray at his residence after the Shiv Sena leader had ext-ended his partys support to him despite being a part of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). I took a decision to meet Thackeray despite Sonia Gandhis disapproval because I felt that the man who had broken away from his traditional coalition partner to support my candidature, should not feel humiliated, Mr Mukherjee said in his book. The veteran Congressman said he had asked both Ms Gandhi and Mr Pawar, who was instrumental in influencing Thackeray towards him, whether he should meet the Sena leader during his visit to Mumbai. Mr Pawars advice was completely different from that of Ms Gandhi as he insisted that Mr Mukherjee should meet Thackeray. Mr Pawar said Thackeray would consider it a personal insult if Mr Mukherjee did not meet him during his visit to Mumbai. Sonia Gandhi was not enthusiastic about my meeting Bal Thackeray and advised me to avoid it if possible. Sonia Gandhis reservations about Thackeray were based on her own perception of his policies, he said. After his return to Delhi, Mr Mukherjee said, Congress leader Girija Vyas had met him and told him that Ms Gandhi and Ahmed Patel, the political secretary to the Congress president, were upset about the meeting with Thackeray. Narrating his meeting with the Maratha strongman, the former president said it was very cordial. Sinha also attacked the central government over demonetisation and implementation of GST. Mumbai: Former Union finance minister Yashwant Sinha once again trained his guns on the economic policies of the Narendra Modi-led government and called for 'lokshakti' (people's power) to check 'rajshakti' (government). Speaking at an event organised by farmers' NGO Shetkari Jagar Manch at Akola in Vidarbha region on Sunday, he also attacked the central government over demonetisation and implementation of GST. Referring to socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan, Mr Sinha appealed for a 'lok shakti' movement which will keep a check on 'raj-satta' (government). "Let us start this lokshakti initiative from Akola," he said, adding, "As it is, we are already facing recession. And what are numbers. Numbers can prove one thing and with the same numbers, the other side can also be proven." Training his guns on Prime Minister Modi, the BJP leader said, "The head of our government in his recent hour-long speech cited numbers to show India's progress, saying so many cars and motorcycles were sold". "Does this mean that the country is progressing," the former Union finance minister asked, adding there was sale, but was there any production? "I was avoiding speaking about demonetisation (at this event) because after all what does one say about something which has failed," he said. "When we were in the opposition, we used to allege that there was tax terrorism and 'raid raj' by the then government. I have no words to express what is going on today as terrorism is the final word," Mr Sinha said. GST could have been a "Good and Simple Tax" but the people in power made it a "Bad and Complicated Tax". It is the government's duty to remove anomalies in GST implementation, he said. On his recent outburst against the government through a newspaper article, Mr Sinha said, "People felt that I said what they feel. "I come from Jharkhand where farmers do not commit suicide. But in the recent few days I do not know what happened that the farmers there are committing suicide," he said. The Yogi government had stirred up a controversy last month when its official booklet on tourism did not mention the Taj Mahal. Lucknow: Amid the raging controversy over the Taj Mahal, UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath is due to visit Agra on October 26. UPs principal information secretary Avanish Awasthi said the chief minister will review tourism projects and other development work in Agra. The CMs visit to Agra comes at a time when BJP MLA Sangeet Som termed the Taj Mahal as a blot on Indian culture , evoking a strong reaction from both ordinary people and political leaders. His statement is believed to have caused considerable damage to the states tourism potential as the Taj is the most famous tourist destination, not only in UP but also India. The chief minister said on Tuesday that the MLAs views on the Taj Mahal were personal, and the state government did not endorse them. Yogi Adityanath said on arrest for maintenance of public law and order... Such duplicitous actions need condemnation from all quarters. It only reflects the lack of will on the part of Pakistan to fulfil its international obligations to take effective actions against internationally proscribed terrorists, they said, hitting out at the neighbours decision to now detain Saeed only under milder provisions for maintenance of public law and order. Islamabads move is being seen by foreign policy-watchers as a blatant attempt to provoke India by virtually refusing to take adequate action against Saeed. The horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008 by Pakistani terrorists and the need to bring to book those who planned the attack from Pakistani soil has been consistently taken up by New Delhi with Islamabad but to no avail. The dropping of terror provisions against Saeed is also being seen as a message from Pakistan to India in the context of the rock-bottom ties between the two nations and the Pakistan Armys strategy of continuing to push terrorists into Jammu & Kashmir from across the Line of Control (LoC). Since Saeed is viewed as a strategic asset by the Pakistan Army, the civilian government there seems reluctant to take action against him. According to news agency reports from Pakistan on Saturday, the government in Pakistans Punjab province had withdrawn its request that day for extending the detention of Saeed under the anti- terrorism law. On January 31, Saeed and his four aides had been detained by the Pakistani Punjab government for 90 days under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997. They have been under house arrest since then. Explaining as to why the Pakistan government withdrew its application, a senior official of the Pakistani Punjab government had told a news agency that since Islamabad had extended the detention of Saeed and four others till 24 October under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960, it did not require to keep them under house arrest under the anti-terrorism law. Tuesday that the monument was built by the blood and sweat of Indians. He said his government has been working towards the revival of heritage structures across the state. He said every historic monument was being considered by the government for tourism. The Yogi government had stirred up a controversy last month when its official booklet on tourism did not mention the Taj Mahal. Yogi Adityanath had said earlier that the Taj did not reflect Indian culture. Later, however, his office issued a statement listing various schemes the state government had initiated in Agra, particularly at the Taj Mahal. The chief ministers visit to Agra next week is now seen as a damage control exercise on the Taj Mahal. In a related development, senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan also joined the controversy over Sangeet Soms remarks on the Taj Mahal, and said that Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan should also be demolished as they were symbols of slavery. Why single out the Taj Mahal? Why not Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutab Minar, Red Fort? They are all symbols of slavery, Mr Khan told reporters. Mr Khan said if these monuments were symbols of traitors, they should be demolished. Zaahir hai, traitors jinhe kehte hain RSS ke log, agar ye traitors ki nishaniyan hain toh demolish kar dena chahiye, he declared. The PM said the world was heading back to nature and wellness and Ayurveda was Indias strength. Prime Minister Narendra Modi garlands a statue of Dhanvantari, the god of ayurveda, in New Delhi on Tuesday, the 2nd Ayurveda Day. (Photo: PTI ) New Delhi: Days after Uttar Pradesh BJP MLA Sangeet Som said the Taj Mahal was a blot on Indian culture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an apparent reference to the incident, said Tuesday that no country can move ahead without (taking) pride in its heritage. The Prime Ministers comments are being seen as a direct snub to Mr Som. Nations cannot develop if they dont take pride in their history and heritage. If they do, they are sure to lose their identity over a period of time, Mr Modi said at an event to inaugurate the first All India Institute of Ayurveda. Mr Som had termed the Taj Mahal as a blot on Indian culture, saying the monument was built by traitors. This had prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to clarify that it was part of our proud heritage. Interestingly, a recent book on Uttar Pradesh tourism did not include the name of the Taj Mahal as one of the chief attractions of the state. Inaugurating the ayurveda hospital, meanwhile, Mr Modi said the government was working towards the setting up of such hospitals in each district of the country. He said the time had come for a health revolution under the aegis of the traditional medicine system. It is very necessary for the expansion of ayurveda that theres a good hospital with all facilities in every district of the country. The Ayush ministry is working swiftly in this direction, and in more than three years, more than 65 Ayush hospitals have been developed, he said. The PM said the world was heading back to nature and wellness and Ayurveda was Indias strength. New research is also advising obstetricians to discourage their patients from eating the placenta in any form. A gynaecologist said there is no proof that eating the placenta boost health and that the practice borders on cannibalism", The Independent reported. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Coleen Rooney who have admitted to eating it has created a trend with many new mothers. It has become so popular that a vegan mother caused quite a stir online when she posted an image of her placenta on Facebook, which she later consumed. In recent times, human placenta is consumed in many forms: raw, cooked, roasted, dehydrated, steamed and dehydrated in capsule form, or in smoothies or other drinks. The placenta, also known as afterbirth, grows throughout the pregnancy delivering nutrients and oxygen to the baby. It is also where waste passes. "Medically speaking, the placenta is a waste product," gynaecologist Alex Farr, from the Medical University of Vienne, told The Independent. "After the placenta is genetically part of the newborn, eating the placenta borders on cannibalism," she added. It does not contain high amounts of nutrients like iron, selenium and zinc that many presume it does. In fact, "heavy metals have been found to accumulate in the placenta during pregnancy", the report stated. The US Department of Health had reported of a mother who had eaten placenta capsules and suffered a life-threatening blood poisoning. New research is also advising obstetricians to discourage their patients from eating the placenta in any form. While eating placenta had beneficial effects on animals, further research is needed to understand why. Kumar and Bhola had a fight after the former did not allow the latter to smoke due to his father's allergy to cigarette smoke. Police recovered a body of a man in a canal near Rohini sector 16, which was later identified as that of Kumar, the victim. (Photo: File/Representational) New Delhi: Three men were arrested for allegedly killing a 22-year-old youth after he did not allow one of them to smoke inside his house as his father was allergic to cigarette smoke, the police said on Monday. The victim, Brijesh Kumar, had invited his friend Bhola at his house for a party in northwest Delhi's Sukhdev Nagar on October 9, they added. Kumar and Bhola had an argument after the former did not allow the latter to smoke in his house. When Bhola did not agree, Kumar slapped him, the police said. Bhola felt insulted and decided to exact revenge for the humiliation. Bhola contacted his other two friends -- Vijay and Arjun -- and asked their help in killing Kumar. The trio invited Kumar for a party on October 10 and made him drink too much. Later, they took him for a drive and then shot him in the head, the police said. They dumped his body in the Bawana canal and later went along with his family to file a missing report at Ashok Vihar police station on October 11, they said. Meanwhile the police recovered a body of a man in a canal near Rohini sector 16, which was later identified as that of Kumar. Kumar's family told the police that he did not have any enemies. However, they told them about the fight that took place between Kumar and Bhola over the issue of the latter smoking a cigarette, the police said. His friends were found to be on the run. They were nabbed on Sunday, they added. Student candidates should not flaunt political colours and have at least 60 per cent attendance, the WB Education Minister further added. West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee also asked Principals of colleges, who assembled at the CU campus for a meeting with him, to find out why some colleges were overcrowded in undergraduate courses and some had empty seats in certain streams. (Photo: File) Kolkata: West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee on Monday said the state government was committed to conducting students' council elections on a regular basis. The minister's assertions assumed importance in the wake of agitation of student unions at Jadavpur University and Presidency University against the government's move to introduce a new model where every college and university will have apolitical students' council with the principal and teaching staff playing a vital role. "We will ensure that students' council representatives are elected in every college on a regular basis. There will be no elections for students' union any more. Any election will be for the students' council from now on," Chatterjee said on the sidelines of a function in Calcutta University. "And the student candidates should not flaunt political colours and have at least 60 per cent attendance. The college authorities will take care of these guidelines," Chatterjee said. The provision in the West Bengal Universities and Colleges (Administration and Regulation) Bill-2017, against which the JU, Presidency students held protests in August and September, enabled the state government to prescribe rules and procedures for conducting students' body or union elections. Chatterjee also asked Principals of colleges, who assembled at the CU campus for a meeting with him, to find out "the reason behind some colleges being overcrowded in undergraduate courses and some having empty seats in certain streams." "We must find out the cause and address this anomaly," he said. Chatterjee said the government wanted to beautify every college in three months' time, "by improving facilities and giving a fresh coat of paint on every college building." "This will create a better visual impression about the colleges which is required," he said. Chatterjee said Principals will from now on get Rs 6000 car allowance and Rs 1000 mobile allowance. In our topsy-turvy, anything-is-possible, adversarial, judicial system, the better argued case inevitably wins. Rajesh and Nupur Talwar were having an impromptu pre-birthday celebration for their daughter Aarushi, at their Noida residence on the evening of May 15, 2008. Their live-in, trusted house-help Hemraj was about, as usual. Some time before 6 am the next day, both Aarushi and Hemraj were dead the victims of horrific violence inside the house. The Talwars say Hemraj killed Aarushi, but ascribe no motive for him to have done that. Also, they have no idea who killed Hemraj, or where. His bloodied body was found on the terrace, which was locked from outside. The key to it was never found. On May 23, 2008, the Uttar Pradesh police arrested Rajesh Talwar on suspicion of being the prime accused in the double murder. Unhappy with the way the UP police was conducting the investigation, the Talwars petitioned for the case to be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation. Policing is a state subject under the Constitution. Unless the state government agrees, the CBI has no jurisdiction in such cases. But then UP chief minister Mayawati had no hesitation in letting the CBI carry the ball forward. By May 31, 2008 the CBI was officially in charge. By July 11, 2008, the CBI filed a report in the designated CBI court that there was insufficient evidence against Rajesh Talwar, who was consequently released on bail. The next three years were spent trying to find out who did it. Over this period four different investigating officers handled the case. Finally, A.G.L. Kaul, DSP, filed a closure report on January 1, 2011, citing the lack of any conclusive evidence to indict anybody. To their credit, the Talwars contested the finding and urged further investigations. The CBI court decided to proceed with the case. But it summoned the Talwars as the accused. Courts do have this power. But more usually, this happens when the police seems dilatory in lodging a first information report, not when a closure report has been filed by the police after investigations. The Talwars, possibly shaken by being named as the accused, moved the Supreme Court for relief. But their petition was dismissed. The outcome, two years later, on November 25-26, 2013 was that the Talwars were convicted by a CBI court for the double murders. The Talwars appealed against these convictions. The Allahabad high court has, on October 12, 2017, ruled in favour of the Talwars. It held that the lower court had erred in considering the chain of circumstantial evidence adduced as being conclusive since multiple conclusions could be drawn from the same facts. This is only temporary relief for the Talwars. The CBI has 90 days to appeal to the Supreme Court. But the CBI also has a credibility issue, particularly within the Supreme Court. In 2013 the CBI was described, by a justice of the Supreme Court as a caged parrot of the government of the day. In our topsy-turvy, anything-is-possible, adversarial, judicial system, the better argued case inevitably wins. It seems a one-sided battle. The Talwars will fight for their continued liberty, the restoration of normalcy and social standing. The CBI will fight to improve its record of convictions and to show that crime does not pay. But with shoddy initial investigations and doubtful evidence, that has already been questioned exhaustively in the high courts order. this becomes harder to achieve. Sadly, no one is fighting for Hemraj or for the wife and kids he left behind. As for 13-year-old Aarushi, it is difficult to say how she may have wanted things to pan out. It is also tragic that despite transferring the case from the allegedly, bumbling UP police supposedly, more familiar with law and order rather than tricky, crime investigations to the more savvy and efficient CBI, the results are so pathetic. Justice for Hemraj and Aarushi remains elusive even a decade after. To be fair to the CBI, conventional crime is not its core mandate. Investigation of economic offences and corruption is its forte. Since 2008, terror-related crime investigations have already been hived off to the new National Investigation Agency (NIA), which can, seamlessly, also deal with crime having national consequences or cross-state crime networks. Conventional crime is usually dealt by the state police. The deleterious trend of frequent transfer of cases to the CBI dates to the early 1980s. It enables forum shopping, scratch my back bargains and politicisation. It also discourages state police forces from developing their expertise and practices for investigating and prosecuting crime. The double murder does not qualify for the CBIs attention. Delhi records 598 murders and Uttar Pradesh 4,860 murders per year. The Aarushi-Hemraj case, however horrific, is a personal tragedy of only two families. The public outcomes are negligible. Its investigation could have remained with the UP police. Transferring the case to the CBI has only muddied things at the field level and encouraged finger-pointing. The then director of the CBI had this to say, in 2014, as part of a tribute to the untimely demise of A.G.L. Kaul, SP, CBI, the last investigating officer: Despite the many lacunae and loopholes, due to the fact that the case had been handled initially by the UP Police, (Kaul) was able to obtain a conviction. Till recently, there was a tendency to centralise financial and administrative resources in the Union government on the grounds of higher efficiency and rectitude. This is self-defeating. The surest way of retaining power is to distribute it to where it can best be administered. The CBI must be honed to do its primary task bringing moneyed crooks to justice. Central police organisations are hopelessly outdated in their staffing pattern, skills and equipment. They need knowledge and technology to collect intelligence, investigate and prosecute. Boots on the ground look great in the Republic Day parade. But they are costly and ineffective in tackling 21st century criminals. Leaner, officer-oriented, specialised and mobile security agencies are really the way to go. CERT New Zealand and CERT India asked users to apply security updates. An alert from the US Department of Homeland Security Computer Emergency Response Team on Monday said the flaw could be used within range of Wi-Fi using the WPA2 protocol to hijack private communications. Cyber security watchdogs and researchers are issuing warnings over risks associated with a widely used system for securing Wi-Fi communications after the discovery of a flaw that could allow hackers to read information thought to be encrypted, or infect websites with malware. An alert from the US Department of Homeland Security Computer Emergency Response Team on Monday said the flaw could be used within range of Wi-Fi using the WPA2 protocol to hijack private communications. It recommended installing vendor updates on affected products, such as routers provided by Cisco Systems Inc or Juniper Networks Inc. Belgian researchers Mathy Vanhoef and Frank Piessens of Belgian university KU Leuven disclosed the bug in WPA2, which secures modern Wi-Fi systems used by vendors for wireless communications between mobile phones, laptops and other connected devices with Internet-connected routers or hot spots. If your device supports Wi-Fi, it is most likely affected, they said on the www.krackattacks.com website, which they set up to provide technical information about the flaw and methods hackers might use to attack vulnerable devices. It was not immediately clear how difficult it would be for hackers to exploit the bug, or if the vulnerability has previously been used to launch any attacks. Finnish security firm F-Secure said experts have long been cautious about Wi-Fis ability to withstand security challenges of the 21st century. But the worst part of it is that its an issue with Wi-Fi protocols, which means it affects practically every single person in the world that uses Wi-Fi networks, it said on its website. Microsoft Corp said it had released a security update for Windows. Customers who applied the update, or had automatic updates enabled, would already be protected, it said in a statement emailed to Reuters. CERT New Zealand and CERT India asked users to apply security updates. CERT NZ suggested using ethernet cables and to connect directly into the network, when possible. "Given the complexity of updating smart devices such as mobile phones, CERT NZ also strongly recommends disabling Wi-Fi when it isn't required," it said in its advisory. The Wi-Fi Alliance, an industry group that represents hundreds of Wi-Fi technology companies, said the issue could be resolved through a straightforward software update. The group said in a statement it had advised members to release patches quickly and recommended that consumers quickly install those security updates. Huawei aims to distinguish itself through technological advances that will put it on a level playing field with other premium devices. Chinas Huawei has unveiled a new line of smartphones that match or even improve on key features offered by Apple or Samsung while undercutting their rivals on price. Chinese device manufacturer Huawei has unveiled a new line of smartphones that match or even improve on key features offered by Apple or Samsung while undercutting their rivals on price. Huawei aims to distinguish itself through technological advances that will put it on a level playing field with the most coveted premium-priced devices, helping to boost profitability that has been undermined by heavy discounting in the chase for market share. Mondays product launch in Munich introduced Huaweis new Mate 10 series, touting high-end cameras, screens and batteries but at prices 15-30 percent below more or less comparable Apple and Samsung smartphones. Huawei was the worlds No.3 smartphone maker by shipments last year, temporarily overtaking Apple as No.2 in June as consumers awaited the new iPhone 8 and iPhone X line-up, data from Counterpoint Research shows. With Apples latest models now on the market, Huawei has weighed in with the Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro, featuring, respectively, 5.9-inch and 6-inch edge-to-edge displays, as well as fast-charging batteries that sustain two days of heavy use. The Mate 10 line ticks all the boxes in terms of screen size, high-quality camera, powerful processor and slick design - competing with rival products from Samsung and to some extent, Apple, said CCS Insight mobile analyst Ben Wood. Perhaps the most distinctive features of the Mate 10 series is its image recognition capability -- an artificial intelligence feature that can tell the difference between people, flowers or other objects in different light or weather conditions. The Mate 10 also boasts cameras with high-grade Leica f1.6 aperture lenses. We have the ability to start helping the novice become a professional-grade photographer, Peter Gauden, a senior Huawei product marketing manager, said at an advance product briefing. (It) is not only a smartphone, it is an intelligent machine. PRICING AND PROFITABILITY In March Huawei vowed to focus on profit margins and reduce spending this year after posting its slowest profit growth in 5 years in 2016. Though it has become more focused on mid-tier and premium phones and reduced its appetite for market share at any cost, it still has a long way to go. Apple captures nearly two-thirds of the smartphone industrys profits and Samsung accounts for almost a quarter while Huawei and Chinese rivals operate on meagre margins of about 4 percent, Counterpoint Research estimates. Those modest margins put a cap on how far Huawei can go with further discounting. Chinas largest smartphone maker is looking to sustain its momentum in international markets such as Europe while also differentiating itself from fast-growing domestic rivals through technical advances. Today our product is getting better and better, but the challenge for us is our branding, Huawei Consumer Business Group chief Richard Yu told Reuters last month. Our brand, many people dont know that they dont know Huawei. Huaweis European growth exceeded 50 percent in the first half of 2017, outpacing other regions, Yu said, adding that European sales had helped to compensate for sluggish growth in emerging markets. The Mate 10, priced at 699 euros ($825), will go on sale in 15 countries this month, ranging from Spain to the Gulf states, Australia and southeast Asia, Huawei said. The slightly more feature-rich Mate 10 Pro will be priced at 799 euros and start to ship in mid-November to 20-plus countries, including Germany, France, Italy, as well as Asian and Middle East nations. The company also said it will offer a luxury Porsche Design edition at 1,395 euros.Samsungs comparable top-of-the-line phone, the Galaxy Note 8, is priced at 999 euros in Germany. Apples smaller-screened iPhone 8 starts at 799 euros while the iPhone 8 Plus is 909 euros and the iPhone X starts at 1,149 euros on the companys German website. 'Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks,' deputy secretary of state John J Sullivan said on Tuesday. US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan, left, and Japan's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Shinsuke Sugiyama at Iikura Guest House in Tokyo Tuesday. (Photo: AP) Washington: The United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, deputy secretary of state John J Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang while it continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks, Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst should diplomacy fail, he said. Tensions have soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Leaflets apparently from North Korea calling Trump a mad dog and depicting gruesome images of him have turned up across central Seoul in recent days, adding an unusually personal element to North Korean propaganda. The situation on the Korean peninsula where the attention of the whole world is focused has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment, North Koreas Deputy UN ambassador Kim In Ryong told a UN General Assembly committee on Monday. As long as one does not take part in the US military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country, according to Kims prepared remarks for the discussion on nuclear weapons. Kim did not read that section out loud. The UN Security Council has unanimously ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since 2006. The most recent UN sanctions banned exports of coal, iron ore and seafood, aimed at cutting off one-third of North Koreas total annual exports of $3 billion. Experts say North Korea has been scrambling to find alternative sources of hard currency to keep its economy afloat and to advance its weapons programme further. North Koreas Lazarus hacking group was likely responsible for a recent cyber heist in Taiwan, cyber-security firm BAE Systems Plc said on Monday. Taiwans Central News Agency reported last week that while hackers sought to steal some $60 million from the Far Eastern Bank, all but $500,000 had been recovered by the bank. BAE Systems and other cyber firms have previously linked Lazarus to last years $81 million cyber heist at Bangladeshs central bank. North Korea had also recently allowed citizens as young as 12 to bet on local horse races for the first time, state news agency KCNA reported. Punters had previously risked three years hard labour for gambling in the reclusive and tightly controlled state, but the growing importance of private markets meant more people had money to spend on leisure, experts said. You may have ridiculed Kim Jong Un for constructing lavish facilities while struggling to feed the people, but those things are to make foreign currency, not from foreigners but from the well-offs inside North Korea because you have to pay in U.S. dollars or Chinese renminbi there, said Lee Sang-keun, a researcher at the Institute of Unification Studies of Ewha Womans University in Seoul. Many North Koreans make lots of money from the market, dine at hamburger restaurants and go shopping, all of which help fatten regime coffers. Thats part of the reason why the regime still has some financial latitude despite international sanctions. Trump has engaged in a war of words with Kim Jong-Un, threatening to 'totally destroy' North Korea if it threatens the United States. Deputy UN Ambassador Kim In Ryong told the General Assembly's committee on disarmament that the situation on the Korean peninsula has reached the touch-and-go point. (Photo: AP) United Nations: North Korea on Monday told the United Nations that it will never negotiate the dismantling of its nuclear weapons unless the United States reverses its "hostile" policy. Deputy UN Ambassador Kim In Ryong told the General Assembly's committee on disarmament that the situation on the Korean peninsula "has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment." "Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the US is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiation table under any circumstance," he said. President Donald Trump has engaged in an escalating war of words with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, trading personal insults and threatening to "totally destroy" North Korea if it threatens the United States. But US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday that Trump wanted to avoid war, even though the president said on Twitter that Tillerson was "wasting his time" with diplomacy. "He's not seeking to go to war," Tillerson told CNN, adding ominously that efforts would "continue until the first bomb drops." Following a series of missile launches and a sixth nuclear test, Kim said his country "had passed the final gate" toward becoming a full-fledged nuclear power, with the means to deliver a nuclear strike. "The entire US mainland is within our firing range and if the US dares to invade our sacred territory, even an inch, it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe," said the North Korean diplomat. The United States and South Korea on Monday began a 10-day joint naval exercise in a fresh show of force against the North, with a US aircraft carrier and two US destroyers taking part. Kim said North Korea will not target any country that does not join a US-led military campaign. "As long as one does not take part in the US military actions against the DPRK, we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country," he said. The United States led a drive at the Security Council to impose two new sets of tough sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear test and intercontinental ballistic missile tests. Ban on sale of refined crude oil and the renewal of visas for foreign workers. Sanctions at historical levels. In the past, Pyongyang evaded them thanks to China. Now the regime is also facing internal struggles and likely to disintegrate. Brussels (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The European Union yesterday decided to ban the sale of refined petroleum products and not to renew visas for North Korean workers, lowering the maximum ceiling for transfers of money from 15,000 North Korean dollars to 5 thousand euros. A former regime officer warns: under these conditions "the country will not last one year". Sanctions have been building up against North Korea since last month, when Pyongyang conducted its sixth missile test. Recent advances have put the international community and experts on high alert, worried that the bombs are now able to reach distant destinations, including the United States. In response, the United Nations Security Council has imposed new punitive measures, embraced by the historic ally in Beijing. Ri Jong-ho, former government official who deserted the regime to flee to the US, expresses concern for the country's future, which "never faced similar sanctions. I do not know if North Korea will survive this year. People will die. " According to Ri, the provocative behavior of Pyongyang is the result of a "desperate" need to force the United States to open a diplomatic dialogue that excludes Seoul and is limited to bilateral negotiations. Ri also argues that a pivotal point in the situation is the worsening of relations between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping, through uncle of Jang Song-thaek and other officials close to Beijing. "Now China has blocked trade, which has never happened before, so this is the lowest point in their relationships." UN sanctions against North Korea have been accumulating since 2006, when six-nation negotiations between North Korea, China, USA, Japan, South Korea and Russia failed. In the past, Pyongyang was able to circumvent the restrictions with the help of China, worried about the possible exodus of North Korean refugees in the event of destabilization of the country. China shares 1,400 km of border with North Korea. The latest blockade of punitive measures has effectively reduced Pyongyang's trade, limiting it to a set amount of oil and humanitarian aid. Despite all of this, Kim Jong-un seems willing to continue missile tests. The Kurds had held the Bay Hassan and Havana fields since 2014. Together they produced 250,000 barrels a day, providing Kurdistan 40 per cent of its oil exports. As Turkey backs Iraq the US calls for calm and dialogue. For Kurdish experts, voters in the referendum were "fooled by false promises". Baghdad (AsiaNews) - This morning, Iraqi troops took control of two major oil fields in the Kirkuk area, after days of a bitter standoff between Erbil and Baghdad. According to Iraqs federal police, soldiers occupied the area after Kurdish forces pulled out without a fight, temporarily easing fears of a new conflict between the autonomous region and the central government. In a statement, Iraqi security forces said that "federal police units have taken over the oil fields of Bay Hassan and Havana," north of Kirkuk. The evening before, Kurdish technicians stopped pumping oil and left the area before the arrival of Iraqi soldiers. Kurdish troops (Peshmerga) had seized these two strategically important sites in 2014, taking advantage of the chaos caused by the collapse of Iraqi army under the attacks of Islamic State (IS) group. In the summer of 2014, IS forces had seized Mosul and much of the Nineveh Plain, encountering only Kurdish troops who tried to hold them back. The Bay Hassan and Havana fields produce 250,000 barrels of oil a day. Since 2014, they were administered by the Resources Ministry of the Kurdistan Autonomous Government and had a strategic role in its finances. Presently, Kurdistan is facing the worst economic crisis in its history. The loss of these two fields could be a hard blow since they represented up to 40 per cent of the regions total oil exports. Worried about its interests in the region, the United States has repeatedly called for calm on both sides. However, Iraqs central government seems prepared to continue its offensive, which has enabled it take control of Kirkuk control and some key installations hitherto held by in the Kurds. Meanwhile, reports say a militia backed by the Baghdad government has taken control of the town of Sinjar in the north-western Nineveh province. The takeover happened without violence after Kurdish Peshmerga withdrew from the area. State department spokeswoman Heather Nauert urged all parties to "avoid further clashes". For his part, Iraqi Prime Minister Abadi brushed aside such concerns and said in a statement that the operation in Kirkuk was necessary to "protect the unity of the country, which was in danger of partition" because of the referendum. "We call upon all citizens to co-operate with our heroic armed forces, which are committed to our strict directives to protect civilians in the first place, and to impose security and order," he added. On 25 September, the Kurdish autonomous region in northern Iraq held a referendum, which ended with a overwhelming victory for independence (more than 90 per cent of yes). The poll was also held in the disputed area of Kirkuk as well. Baghdad said the referendum was unconstitutional in spite of regional and international opposition, with the exception of Israel. Turkey backs Iraq, saying that it was "ready for any form of co-operation with the Iraqi government in order to end the PKK presence in Iraqi territory". Turkey considers the PKK a terrorist organisation. A bomb recently exploded in norther Iraq killing two Turkish soldiers, and wounding others. Turkish planes responded hitting PKK positions in the area. The Kurdish question remains open and seems to get stronger each day, raising concerns among the regions and Western governments. Although officially part of Iraq, Iraqi Kurdistan has had its own parliament, government, president, anthem, flag, military and police forces for more than a quarter of a century. Today, two Kurdish experts penned an article in French daily Le Monde, noting how the Kurdish regions current political regime resembles more the Gulf regions authoritarian monarchies than Israel, the only Mideast state supporting the pro-independence referendum. For Mariwan Kanie and Aras Fatah, voters who took part in the 25 September referendum were fooled by false promises" made by Kurdish leaders over the years. Any comparison between Kurds and Israelis is "wrong and anti-historical," as the Kurdish people are more like the "Armenians and the Palestinians." For them, the Kurds need great friends, not great propagandists in the Middle East and the rest of the world. The two sides exchanged artillery fire early Monday, south of the city. Baghdad aims to retake military bases and oil fields which Kurdish peshmerga fighters took in 2014 during the fightback against Isis. Three major oil fields produce some 250,000 barrels per day, accounting for 40 percent of Iraqi Kurdistan's oil exports. Baghdad (AsiaNews/Agencies) - Iraqi and Kurdish forces exchanged artillery fire early Monday south of the city of Kirkuk, after central government forces began a "major operation" to take control of a Kurdish military base and oil fields. Shortly before, state television announced that government troops had taken "large areas" of the province from Kurdish peshmerga fighters "without fighting", although military sources on both sides reported exchange of Katyusha rocket fire to the south of the provincial capital. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who said this week that he was "not going... to make war on our Kurdish citizens", has "given orders to armed forces to take over security in Kirkuk," state television said. Iraqi troops will "secure bases and government facilities in Kirkuk province" the government said. They are aiming to retake military bases and oil fields which Kurdish peshmerga fighters took in 2014 during the fightback against the Islamic State jihadist group. Multiple peshmergas were injured in the clashes and hospitalised in Kirkuk, a local security source said. On 25 September, the autonomous region in northern Iraq held a referendum on independence, which ended with an overwhelming victory in favor (over 90% yes). The vote was also held in the controversial territory of Kirkuk. Baghdad has declared the referendum -- held despite international opposition -- illegal. The peshmergas "have withdrawn from Tal Al-Ward (southeast of Kirkuk) and from the industrial zone in the suburbs of Kirkuk without fighting," said Hemin Hawrami, adviser to President Massoud Barzani. The crisis between Erbil and Baghdad has raised fears of fresh chaos just as the country's forces are on the verge of routing IS from the last territory it controls in Iraq. Earlier Sunday, Iraq's National Security Council said it viewed as a "declaration of war" the presence of "fighters not belonging to the regular security forces in Kirkuk", including fighters from Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). For their part the Iraqi forces have said that they have no wish to enter Kirkuk but that they wish to retake military positions and infrastructure which were under their control before their troops withdrew in the face of hostility from the jihadists. Long claimed by the Kurds as part of their historic territory, the province has emerged as the main flashpoint in the dispute. The Kurds control the city of Kirkuk and three major oil fields in the province that produce some 250,000 barrels per day, accounting for 40 percent of Iraqi Kurdistan's oil exports. The fields would provide crucial revenue to Baghdad, which has been left cash-strapped from the global fall in oil prices and three years of battle against IS. Iraq is also demanding the return of a military base and a nearby airport, according to the Kurds. by Inviato di AsiaNews A solemn mass of thanksgiving is held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. For Card Charles Maung Bo, this "is a historic moment for all of us and for the Church in Myanmar. The new nuncio, Mgr Paul Tschang In-Nam, calls on Catholics to work for national peace and reconciliation. Yangon (AsiaNews) The Catholic Church of Myanmar has thanked Pope Francis for his three gifts to the country, namely the establishment of full diplomatic relations between the Vatican and the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and the subsequent creation of the apostolic nunciature, the appointment of Archbishop Paul Tschang In-Nam as the first nuncio, and the pontiffs apostolic visit to Yangon and Nay Pyi Taw from 27 to 30 November 2017. On Sunday, some Myanmar bishops expressed their gratitude in a solemn mass of thanksgiving at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Yangon (picture 1). Scores of priests and thousands of worshippers took part in the service with which the community officially welcomed Mgr Paul Tschang In-Nam. The new nuncio was met with traditional music, dances and flowers (picture 2). He celebrated the Mass in English, whilst Card Charles Maung Bo, archbishop of Yangon, delivered the homily. "It is a historic moment for all of us and for the Church in Myanmar, said the cardinal. In recent years, God has been very benevolent to us showering His triple gifts to the Church and the country. We have all reasons to thank God and the Holy Father who made it possible for all these great and historic events in these days to happen". For the prelate, these events will help the Church to grow in greater faith and commitment to service and enhance or serve as a missionary impetus in the country for the common good of society. The nuncio thanked the community for their welcome and invited all Church leaders, priests, nuns, and believers to work for national peace and reconciliation. Mary George, a local parishioner, attended the service. She told AsiaNews that Mass in the cathedral, lasting more than two hours, was a great testimony to God's love for the Church and the nation. For a joyful Fr Joseph Kyaw Thet, the local parish priest, "God's Grace is unfolding for all of us, in recent and coming days." Myanmar has about 51 million people. Buddhists are 88.9 per cent of the population whilst Christians represent 6.3 per cent. Catholics number about 700,000, and are waiting "with devotion and prayer the arrival of the pontiff". Many Christians belong to tribal minorities still in conflict with the countrys powerful military and nationalist movements, and are often victims of violence and abuse. The countrys three archdioceses and 16 dioceses are served by 17 active and six retired bishops, 939 priests, 1,398 men and women religious, as well as 2,695 catechists. The doctors of the Law are only concerned with the external appearance of things, foolish those who follow "idols," like consumerism, foolish those Christians who have become "ideologues of Christianity." "The fool does not listen, he thinks he is listening, but he does not listen. And for this reason the Word of God cannot enter into the heart, and there is no place for love. " Vatican City (AsiaNews) To refuse to listen to the Word of God, transform it into according to the trends or ideology of the time, to replace it with lies is "foolishness" and leads to corruption said Pope Francis at Mass this morning at Casa Santa Marta. The Holy Father reflected on the foolishness of those, who are unable to hear the Word of God, preferring appearances, idols, or ideologies like the people of Jerusalem, whose faithlessness caused Our Lord to weep nostalgic tears. Francis reflection took the word fools, which appears twice in the Readings, as his starting point: Jesus says it to the Pharisees (Lk 11: 37-41), while St. Paul refers to the Pagans (Rm 1: 16-25). St. Paul had also deployed the term to refer to the Christians of Galatia, whom he called fools because they let themselves be duped by new ideas. This word, more than a condemnation, explained Pope Francis, is a signal, for it shows the way of foolishness leading to corruption. These three groups of fools are corrupt, Pope Francis said. Jesus told the Doctors of the Law that they resembled whitewashed sepulchres: they became corrupt because they worried only about the outside of things being beautiful, but not what is inside, where corruption exists. They were, therefore, corrupted by vanity, by appearance, by external beauty, by outward justice. The Pagans, on the other hand, have the corruption of idolatry: they became corrupt because they exchanged the glory of God which they could have known through reason for idols. There are also idolatries today, such as consumerism the Pope noted or such as practiced by those, who look for a comfortable god. Finally, those Christians who sell themselves to ideologies, and have ceased to be Christians, often having rather become, ideologues of Christianity. All three of these groups, because of their foolishness, end up in corruption. Francis then explains what this foolishness consists of: Folly is a form of not listening, one might literally say a nescio, I do not know, I do not listen. The inability to hearken to the Word: when the Word does not enter, I do not let it in because I do not listen. The fool does not listen. He believes he is listening, but he does not listen. He does his own thing, always and for this reason the Word of God cannot enter into his heart, and there is no place for love. And if it enters, it enters distilled, transformed by my own conception of reality. The fools do not know how to listen, and this deafness leads to this corruption. The Word of God does not enter, there is no place for love and in the end there is no place for freedom. Thus, they become slaves, because they exchange the truth of God with lies, and worship creatures instead of the Creator: They are not free and do not listen: this deafness leaves room neither for love, nor for freedom; it always leads us to slavery. Do I listen to the Word of God? Do I let it in? This Word, of which we have heard in the singing of the Alleluia the Word of God is alive, effective, revealing the feelings and thoughts of the heart. It cuts, it gets inside. Do I let this Word in, or am I deaf to it? Do I transform it into appearance, transform it into idolatry, into idolatrous habits, or into ideology? Thus, it does not enter: this is the folly of Christians. Pope Francis concludes with an exhortation: to look at the icons of today's fools, adding, there are foolish Christians and even foolish shepherds, in this day. Saint Augustine, he recalled, takes the stick to them, with gusto, because the folly of the shepherds hurts the flock. Let us look at the icon of foolish Christians, urged Pope Francis, and beside this folly let us look on the Lord who is always at the door, he knocks and waits. His concluding invitation is therefore that we should consider the Lords nostalgia for us: of the love He had for us first: And if we fall into this stupidity, we move away from Him and He feels this nostalgia nostalgia for us and Jesus wept with this longing cry, weeping over Jerusalem: it was nostalgia for a people He had chosen, a people He loved, but who had gone away for foolishness, who preferred appearances, idols, or ideologies. by Sumon Corraya In September, 60 refugees drowned in these waters, another 30 in October. More than half a million Rohingya have entered Bangladesh to escape the violence. Only this week about 50,000 have crossed the border. The Catholic Church's commitment to refugees. Cox's Bazaar (AsiaNews) - At least 12 people are drowned and dozens of people are missing after the a boat carrying Rohingya refugees sank in the Naf River yesterday morning (photo 1). Officials at Teknaf Police Station near Cox's Bazar state: "Coast Guard, police, and local people have helped rescue the people. 21 have been rescued, while some are still missing. " Since the last week in August, more than half a million Rohingya have entered Bangladesh to escape the violence in the state of Rakhine, western Myanmar. Many of them have fled by crossing the Naf river, a natural border between the two countries, on makeshift boats. In September, 60 refugees drowned in these waters. Another 30 died in October in similar circumstances. The victims are mainly women and children. Local media reports that only this week about 50,000 Rohingya IDPs entered Bangladesh following the operations of the Myanmar army. Yesterday, the Director-General of the International Organization for Migration, William Lacy Swing (photo 2), visited the refugee camp of Ukhyia (Cox's Bazar), where many Rohingya have found shelter. He told reporters: "Today, the Rohingya crisis is the greatest humanitarian disaster in the world. The international community should be close to them. " The official listened to the refugees stories of persecution and distributed aid before he visited the Bandarban camp. In response to the humanitarian emergency, the Catholic Church of Bangladesh is working for the Rohingyas through Caritas. Card. Patrick D'Rozario and other bishops have already visited the camps and donated money for the aid. At the meeting, the new members of the Bishops' Conference introduced themselves. Preparations are underway to mark the 30th anniversary (1988-2018) of the canonisation of the 117 martyrs of Vietnam. The bishops ad limina visit to the pope is set for March. The prelates also met with flood victims and handed out packages with food and other items. Thanh Hoa (AsiaNews/EdA) Vietnams Catholic bishops met in the Diocese of Thanh Hoa for their annual assembly from 10 to 13 October. This is the second times since 2012 that the diocese hosts the meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Vietnam (CBCV). The area, which is located in northern Vietnam, was recently hit by torrential rains that caused widespread flooding. Before the first day of work, most prelates went to Thai Binh, also in northern Vietnam, for the funeral of Mgr Phanxico Xavie (Francois-Xavier) Nguyen Van Sang, a prominent figure of the Vietnamese episcopate. He served as bishop of Thai Binh (1990-2009) and as CBCV vice president. He died on 5 October at the age of 86. Following the service, the bishops travelled to Thanh Hoa, where along with the clergy, men and women religious and the local laity, they celebrated the 85th anniversary of the dioceses foundation. Mgr Leopoldo Girelli, a non-resident papal representative for Vietnam, was present at the three-day meeting. He was recently appointed apostolic nuncio to Israel and apostolic delegate for Jerusalem and Palestine. The bishops paid tribute to him for his apostolic work over the past six years. At the assembly, the recently appointed members of the Conference introduced themselves; they are: Mgr Giuse (Joseph) Tran Van Toan, who is now bishop coadjutor of the Diocese of Long Xuyen after being its auxiliary bishop; Mgr Gioan (Jean) Do Van Ngan, the new auxiliary bishop of Xuen Loc; and Mgr Louis Nguyen Anh Tuan, Saigon's new auxiliary bishop. During the meeting, the bishops drafted a joint letter that has not yet been published. They also worked on preparations for the 30th anniversary of the canonisation of the 117 martyrs of Vietnam in 2018, as well as their upcoming ad limina visit to Rome next March. A few days before the conference, torrential rains hit the Thanh Hoa region, causing heavy flooding in many places. Meeting in the affected diocese, the bishops expressed their solidarity to the victims, and on 12 October took a break from their work to visit the main parish of the diocese, which was particularly affected by the rains. The prelates met the victims and Card Phero (Pierre) Nguyen Van Nhon, archbishop of Hanoi, spoke to them on behalf of the bishops. The bishops handed out packages with food and other items to meet the most urgent needs. By Lachlan McCalman, Senior Research Engineer, Data61 BEST-BACKGROUNDS/Shutterstock You may have heard that algorithms will take over the world. But how are they operating right now? We take a look in our series on Algorithms at Work. Machine learning algorithms work blindly towards the mathematical objective set by their designers. It is vital that this task include the need to behave ethically. Such systems are exploding in popularity. Companies use them to decide what news you see and who you meet online dating. Governments are starting to roll out machine learning to help deliver government services and to select individuals for audit. Yet the algorithms that drive these systems are much simpler than you might realise: they have more in common with a pocket calculator than a robot from a sci-fi novel by Isaac Asimov. By default, they dont understand the context in which they act, nor the ethical consequences of their decisions. Read More: How marketers use algorithms to (try to) read your mind The predictions of a machine learning algorithm come from generalising example data, rather expert knowledge. For example, an algorithm might use your financial situation to predict the chance youll default on the loan. The algorithm would be trained on the finances of historical customers who did or did not default. For this reason, a machine learning systems ethics must be provided as an explicit mathematical formula. And its not a simple task. Learning from data Data61, where I work, has designed and built machine learning systems for the government, as well as local and international companies. This has included several projects where the products behaviour has ethical implications. Imagine a university that decides to take a forward-looking approach to enrolling students: instead of basing their selection on previous marks, the university enrols students it predicts will perform well. The university could use a machine learning algorithm to make this prediction by training it with historical information about previous applicants and their subsequent performance. Such training occurs in a very specific way. The algorithm has many parameters that control how it behaves, and the training involves optimising the parameters to meet a particular mathematical objective relating to the data. The simplest and most common objective is to be able to predict the training data accurately on average. For the university, this objective would have its algorithm predict the marks of the historical applicants as accurately as possible. Ethical objectives But a simple predictive goal such as make the smallest mistakes possible can inadvertently produce unethical decision-making. Consider a few of the many important issues missed by this often-used objective: 1. Different people, different mistakes Because the algorithm only cares about the size of its mistakes averaged over all the training data, it might have very different accuracies on different kinds of people. This effect often arises for minorities: there are fewer of them in the training data, so the algorithm doesnt get penalised much for poorly predicting their grades. For a university predicting grades in a male-dominated course, for example, it might be the case that the algorithm is 90% accurate overall, but only 50% accurate for women. To address this, the university would have to change the algorithms objective to care equally about accuracy for both men and women. 2. The algorithm isnt sure Simple machine learning algorithms provide a best guess prediction, but more sophisticated algorithms are also able to assess their own confidence in that prediction. Ensuring that confidence is accurate can also be an important part of the algorithms objective. For example, the university might want to apply an ethical principle like the benefit of the doubt to applicants with uncertain predicted marks. 3. Historical bias The universitys algorithm has learned to predict entirely from historical data. But if professors giving out the marks in this data had biases (say against a particular minority), then new predictions would have the same bias. The university would have to remove this bias in its future admissions by changing the algorithms objective to compensate for it. 4. Conflicting priorities The most difficult factor in creating an appropriate mathematical objective is that ethical considerations often conflict. For the university, increasing the algorthms accuracy for one minority group will reduce its accuracy for another. No prediction system is perfect, and their limitations will always affect some students more than others. Balancing these competing factors in a single mathematical objective is a complex issue of judgement with no single answer. Building ethical algorithms These are only a few of the many complex ethical considerations for a seemingly straightforward problem. So how does this university, or a company or government, ensure the ethical behaviour of their real machine learning systems? As a first step, they could designate an ethics engineer. Their job would be to elicit the ethical requirements of the system from its designers, convert them into a mathematical objective, and then monitor the algorithms ability to meet that objective as it moves into production. Read More: Do computers make better bank managers than humans? Unfortunately, this role is now lumped into the general domain of the data scientist (if it exists at all), and does not receive the attention it deserves. Creating an ethical machine learning system is no simple task: it requires balancing competing priorities, understanding social expectations, and accounting for different types of disadvantage. But it is the only way for governments and companies to ensure they maintain the ethical standards society expects of them. Lachlan McCalman works for Data61, a business unit of CSIRO. Originally published in The Conversation. By David Glance, Director of UWA Centre for Software Practice, University of Western Australia Ksander/Shutterstock A security researcher has revealed serious flaws in the way that most contemporary Wi-Fi networks are secured. Discovered by Mathy Vanhoef from the University of Leuven, the vulnerability affects the protocol Wi-Fi Protected Access 2. Otherwise known as WPA2, this encrypts the connection between a computer or mobile phone and a Wi-Fi access point to keep your browsing safe. Read More: Equifax breach is a reminder of societys larger cybersecurity problems Because this security can be cracked, its possible for someone to read what is transmitted on the network, allowing them to intercept passwords or credit card details, or to inject malicious code when users visit websites. Dubbed the key reinstallation attack (KRACK), Vanhoefs discovery has the most serious implications for devices running the Android operating system, especially version 6.0 and above, and devices that use Linux. But dont freak out just yet: although almost every device that uses Wi-Fi is vulnerable, KRACK can only be deployed in certain circumstances. And there are some simple steps you can take to help keep your internet traffic safe. What is WPA2, anyway? Most secured wireless networks use the WPA2 security protocol. It allows users to login to a network and keep their communications secured. The encryption process uses a set of secret keys that are agreed to between the connecting device and the wireless access point. These keys are used to scramble messages on the network and provide protection against someone sitting in an internet cafe, for example, and listening in on messages between laptops and the wireless router. WPA2 was created to address weaknesses in previous protocols used to secure wireless networks, such as the Wired Equivalency Privacy (WEP) and the first version of WPA. Until now, it was arguably more secure. How does KRACK work? The KRACK attack requires the attacker to be physically close enough to a Wi-Fi network to perform a man-in-the-middle attack. David Glance Most Wi-Fi networks use a 4-way handshake. This is a series of messages between the client and the access point used to ensure both parties have the right credentials. In this scenario, the attacker can prompt the third message to be resent, which causes an existing key to be reused. These keys are used to scramble the contents of messages to prevent them from being read, but also to check if messages have been altered in any way. By forcing the reuse of old keys, these protections are effectively removed. Because the key that is reused is set to zeros in Android 6.0 devices, messages can be more easily decrypted. On other platforms, and depending on the circumstances, only some messages can be exposed. What does this mean for you? Vendors of affected devices have apparently known about the vulnerability since July or August. Since the attack is against Wi-Fi clients, devices like mobile phones and laptops are most at risk. Make sure you update your devices Apple and Google have told media outlets that they will have fixes for the flaw ready in a few weeks. Microsoft has already released a fix, and other companies will have either already fixed the vulnerability or have fixes shortly. The key message is that you should immediately apply all updates that come out for phones, laptops or other devices. This is especially true for Android phones. Use sites with HTTPS Until patches are available, it is worth remembering that Wi-Fi networks, even when secure, only protect communications up until the wireless access point. For end-to-end protection with websites, we rely on HTTPS to keep communication secure. Make sure you look for it in the URL of sites you visit. Normally this would protect users even on a compromised network, although it is possible to bypass HTTPS if the website is not securely configured. Read More: Using truly secure passwords: 6 essential reads Use encrypted services Other communications, such as those used in sending and receiving email, should also be encrypted. Although this is not always the case. Services like Gmail are encrypted by default. Other applications that use their own end-to-end encryption like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp and FaceTime would also be secure. Get a VPN One way of ensuring secure communication while using any form of Wi-Fi network is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection. VPNs provide their own encryption, which protects all communication sent over the Wi-Fi network and would still provide that safeguard, even in the case of someone using the WPA2 KRACK. Were not all doomed Although this is a serious breach, it is not a simple one technically and requires the attacker to have proximity to the Wi-Fi network. The attacker also has to rely on the attacked device going to unprotected, non-HTTPS sites and to not be using a VPN. As industry commentators have pointed out, this is not quite as serious as media headlines might suggest. But consider it a timely reminder to install software updates on all your devices. David Glance does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Originally published in The Conversation. (David Carillet/Shutterstock.com) (David Carillet/Shutterstock.com) Fewer permanent visas were granted for people moving to Australia in the 2016/2017 financial year, the latest official figures show.The data from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) shows that some 183,600 permanent visas were granted to for skilled workers and family.The total is a fall of 6,400 compared to the previous financial year and Immigration Minister Peter Dutton said that it was in line with the Government's strategy of ensuring that migration levels are consistent with Australia's genuine labour market needs.Of the permanent visas granted, skill stream visas totalled more than 123,500 and family stream visas totalled more than 56,200.Dutton pointed out that the immigration programme is structured to deliver the best possible outcomes for Australians and meet both skilled labour and family needs.'Our immigration systems are flexible and responsive to the changing needs of our economy and labour market. The skill stream in particular helps to fill identified skill shortages,' he explained.'The 2016/2017 migration programme outcome demonstrates the Government's commitment to sustainable and responsible migration to enhance our economy and bring families together,' he added.A breakdown of the figures show that visas for skilled workers made up some 67.3% of visas granted with 63.9% for professional occupations, 17.1% trades and technicians and 10.4% for managers.Some 33.5% of visa holders moved to New South Wales, 25.9% to Victoria, 11.7% to Queensland and 10.3% to Western Australia, while the biggest source of new immigrants was India, followed by China and then the UK.But all three countries have seen numbers falling. Some 21.2% or 38,854 visas were granted to Indians, a fall from 40.145, while 15.4% or 28.293 visas were for Chinese people, down from 29,008, and 9.3% or 17,038 for British people, a decline from 18,950 the previous year.The next biggest group was 12,209 for people from the Philippines, 6.556 from Pakistan, 5,493 from Vietnam, 4,589 from South Africa, 4,290 from Nepal, 4,049 from Malaysia and 3,855 from Ireland. Photo of the 2017 Dodge Journey courtesy of Dodge. FCA South Africa will no longer sell Dodge and Chrysler vehicles in South Africa due to the lack of right-hand-drive support for the nameplates. The automaker will continue its commitment to its other brands in the region, according to BusinessTech. Despite the exit, FCA will continue to service existing Chrysler and Dodge vehicle through franchise dealers. Chrysler and Dodge scaled down their presence in South Africa in the last few years. The only Dodge vehicles sold in the region in recent years was the Journey, while Chryslers 300C and Voyager were the only vehicles available from that nameplate, according to IOL. However, for other brands by the automaker, Jeep will introduce the new Compass in South Africa in early 2018 and is slated to also launch the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, according to FCA Authority. Meanwhile, the automaker is also scheduled to launch of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio by the end of the year. Mohnke Nissan North America has named Dan Mohnke senior vice president of sales, marketing and operations in the U.S., where he will oversee light commercial vehicles and report to the company's North America chairman. Mohnke moves into the role from his role as vice president of strategy and digital acceleration. Mohnke now reports to Jose Munoz, chairman of Nissan North America and chief performance officer of Nissan Motor Company, Ltd. Mohnke will have overall responsibility for the Nissan brand in the U.S., including sales, marketing communications, model line brand management, parts and service, product planning, trucks and light commercial vehicles, customer quality and dealer network development functions, according to Nissan. Chris Brown, executive editor of Auto Rental News, poses with the delegation of 23 rental car executives from Brazil during the 2015 Auto Rental Summit. Photo by Amy Winter-Hercher Designed for car rental operators serving Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, the seminars will answer questions about the specific challenges faced by Latin American operators of the car rental industry. The seminars will be presented in Spanish and English. The Latin American Meeting will be held on Monday Nov. 6 from 8:15 a.m. until 9:55 a.m., before the start of the Auto Rental Summit. Here is a description of each seminar that will be presented at next months Latin American Meeting: - Recovering Damages from U.S. Renters: Led by David Purinton of PurCo Fleet Services, this session will present a solution to the problem of recovering damages once U.S. renters return home and dont want to pay for damages. - How to Use Science to Price Against Your Competitors: In some Latin American markets, low car rental rates are an ongoing problem. Luis Montalto of Rate-Highway and Alex Shartsis of Perfect Price will offer tips such as how artificial intelligence can be used to price against competitors, how to forecast utilization, and how to incorporate seasonal patterns in rate and reservation build. - Understanding Trends in Remarketing in Latin America: Daniel Romero, CEO of Manheim Brazil, will outline the current state of remarketing, auctions, and the used car rental market in Brazil and Latin America. This session will be presented in Portuguese and Spanish. This meeting is included at no extra charge to Latin American car rental operators who are registered for the Auto Rental Summit. Click here for more information and to sign up for the Latin American Meeting and the Auto Rental Summit. KNOW THE SYMPTOMS Valley fever, an insidious respiratory disease endemic to Kern County, is commonly misdiagnosed and mistaken for the flu or pneumonia. Protect yourself by knowing the symptoms: Fever Cough Extreme fatigue Shortness of breath Skin lesions Chills Nightsweats Muscle and joint pain Lack of appetite Weight loss If you think you have valley fever, insist your doctor test you. Award-winning documentary filmmaker and fine-art photographer Miguel Gandert shows his work highlighting his mestizaje heritage, and the fusion and tension of the relationship between Spanish Colonial and Native Cultures of the Americas. Runs through 12/29. Querer means to want, to desire, to be in a place, with its people. In folk terminology, querencia is such a place, the center space of desire, the root of belonging and yearning to belong, that vicinity where you first beheld the light. Querencia, in collective terms, is homeland. ~Enrique Lamadrid, Nuevo Mexico Profundo Miguel Gandert tells stories. He tells stories of his homeland, New Mexico (and beyond), its people and the cultural practices that distinguish communities from each other while simultaneously revealing their kinship. You will have to form your own words, however. Ganderts stories are told through penetrating, black and white photos. A primary focus of his work is his own mestizaje heritage and the fusion and tension of the relationship between Spanish Colonial and Native Cultures of the Americas. Miguel Gandert, a native of Espanola, NM, is an award-winning documentary and fine-art photographer and filmmaker. His photographs have been shown in galleries and museums throughout the world and are in numerous public collections including the Smithsonian Museum of American Art, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and the National Museum of American History and Art at the Smithsonian. Querencia: Rituals of the Rio Arriba opens Friday, October 6 at the New Mexico Humanities Council, 4115 Silver Ave SE, Albuquerque. An artists reception will be 6:00 pm 8:00 pm with an artist's discussion at 7:00 pm. The exhibit closes December 29, 2017. A Pinellas County Sheriff's Office deputy was terminated on Oct. 16 after an internal investigation found he violated agency rules by flirting with and later soliciting for a private encounter with a woman he'd previously arrested. Reports show incidents occurred between Dec. 31, 2016 and Jan. 10, 2017 Deputy Brian Britt admitted to violations Britt used agency-issued cell phone to contact woman The Sheriff's Office released inter-office memos on Oct. 16 showing the charges against Deputy Brian Britt, the findings of the investigation, and confirmation that Britt had been terminated. The memos detail Britt's violations of department rules in connection with a woman he first made contact with at an Oldsmar residence on Dec. 31, 2016. According to the memo, Britt, 45, was dispatched to the residence to locate and arrest an 18-year-old woman wanted on a charge of domestic battery. When Britt encountered the woman he believed to be the suspect at the residence, she reportedly came to the door wearing only a towel, and appeared to have just finished taking a shower. In the process of confirming the woman's identity, Britt went into the home and saw a second female in the shower naked, according to Britt's description of the arrest. Upon confirmation of the woman's identity, Britt arrested her, placing her in handcuffs. But later, while waiting for a prisoner transportation van at another location, Britt reportedly removed the woman's handcuffs and engaged her in "personal and flirtatious" conversation until the van arrived. Britt reportedly discussed personal information about himself, as well as learned that the woman was an adult entertainer/dancer. He also asked about where the woman worked, asked if the other woman he saw at the residence worked at that location, and mentioned that he'd "like to go to the adult club" in his off-duty hours. After the woman was booked at the Pinellas County Jail, she made a call to the other woman at the house where she was arrested. During the call, which was recorded, she told the other woman everything Britt told her. Minutes after she was released, Britt reportedly contacted her using his department-issued cell phone. He continued to call and text the woman over the next seven to ten days, with texts described as "flirtatious" that disclosed additional information about his marital status and personal life. The contact led to Britt soliciting the woman for a private encounter at his home in New Port Richey. When the woman asked the purpose of the invitation and mentioned that she was with the other woman he'd seen during the initial contact, Britt reportedly said the invitation was for "conversation," extended the invite to the woman's friend, and offered them each $100 for one hour of their time. The woman agreed to the visit, and traveled from St. Petersburg to New Port Richey with her friend that night. According to Britt's testimony, both women showed signs of impairment upon arrival, and Britt himself had consumed approximately "12 shots of tequila." During the visit, the woman explained that she is compensated for engaging in "fetishes" requested by clients, and she referred to Britt as a client. At a later point in the conversation, Britt reportedly began "rubbing the arrested female's thigh." This prompted an angry exchange during which the woman said touching was not part of the agreement for $100 compensation, and Britt saying he was not going to pay for just "conversation." The encounter ended with Britt providing the woman with gas from a gas can at his house as compensation for their travel and the women leaving. Britt told investigators he suspected they were still impaired. Britt admitted to the violations listed in the memo, and testified that he'd invited the women to his home because he was drinking, depressed and wanted "interaction." He also admitted that during the time the woman and her friend were at his home, his 11-year-old daughter was present and asleep at the house. Britt said after the incident occurred he recognized he'd made "a crucial and regretful error in judgment." He later told investigators, "I'm an idiot." "I don't even know where to begin with that as far as astonishment," said Pinellas Sheriff Bob Gualtieri during comments to the media regarding Britt's termination. "About a deputy sheriff, a cop, somebody you arrest, you're giving them your home address to come to your house for 'interaction' and you're going to pay them $100 with your 11-year-old daughter sleeping in the back bedroom." A county review board found that Britt "failed to demonstrate responsibility" and deviated from his duty to "maintain a standard of conduct in [his] personal and professional life which is ethical." "In conclusion, [Britt] stated that 'I'm an idiot,' and I agree," Gualtieri said. "He is an idiot for doing this and doing this with his 11-year-old daughter in the house." This story starts with David Uth, a member of an organization that is always open, especially in lifes storms. TUESDAY AT 6 P.M.: "Irma: Your Stories," an hour-long special on the impact Hurricane Irma had in Florida -- both good and bad. Share your stories and questions with us on social media with the hashtag #IrmaYourStories. They might get on the air! He is Pastor At First Baptist Orlando. What I say to our people: He will either calm the storm or calm his child, said Uth. So when Hurricane Irma made it impossible for his flock to join him at church, he went to them online via a virtual service that took place in his wifes study. He set up a camera and with the backdrop of a world map, gave a sermon of hope and faithand ended it as his wife handed him his infant grandchild, Sawyer. I looked into the camera, and I said, Guys, I want you to know this is what matters: not our houses, not our stuff, but the people God have given us in our life. May the Lord Bless you in the storm. And thats how we closed the service, Uth told us. The story continues with a flooding-related evacuation and another baby born during the storm ... one named Noah. I actually decided his name when I was either two or three months pregnant, and I never considered any name," said new mom Stacey Knauer. Knauer told us leaned on her faith as she was having a baby while a hurricane made its way up the state. Concerns about flooding forced the evacuation of Manatee Memorial Hospital in BradentonKnauers initial birthing hospital. In my opinion, God had something to do with it,, Knauer said. Its also really nice to know that something magical and beautiful is about to happeneven during the worst times." In a hurricane-safe room -- no windows in a back-up hospital in Lakewood Ranch with the lights flickering -- baby Noah came in the world with the eye of Hurricane Irma 87 miles away. "He was a great distraction for a lot of very helpful people at the hospital, and was a true blessing for everyone," Knauer said. Welcome to the world, Noah. There was someone in Orlando you dont know that was praying for your calm entrance into the storm. Jack and Pam Kilbride are one of the lucky ones. Their Tampa home didn't sustain any damage from Hurricane Irma. Tampa husband, wife get FEMA check despite no damage FEMA spokesman: $700 million handed out in Florida after Irma Think you're a victim? Check out info below But the Kilbride's got a letter in the mail from the Federal Emergency Management Agency saying they filled out an application for disaster relief funds. "It had the last four digits of my social security number, my phone number, my name," Jack Kilbride said. "We pretty much figured out we were the victim of fraud." The Kilbride's then got a $500 check in the mail from the government, and a FEMA contractor left a note on their door saying she had visited the property. FEMA spokesman Steven Solomon said to date the agency has handed out more than $700 million to Floridians in need of help after Irma. He said this opens the door for potential criminal activity. "Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim of fraud should first contact their local law enforcement agency and should follow up with FEMA," Solomon said. "Give us a call at the helpline, or if you prefer face-to-face, step into a recovery center." The Kilbride's have contacted FEMA and local law enforcement and still don't have any answers. They said they are left with an unsettling feeling that someone out there has their personal information. "It's very sad and I don't know how far reaching it is, but people taking advantage of bad times is just unbelievable," Kilbride said. If you think you are a victim of fraud, you can email FEMA-OCSO-Tipline@fema.dhs.gov or STOPFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov. You can also call (866) 223-0814, send a fax to (202) 212-4926 or write to the FEMA Fraud and Internal Division, C St. SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington D.C. 20472-3005. Eleven unlicensed contractors accused of scamming Pinellas County residents were taken into custody Tuesday. "Operation Nailed" targets unlicensed contractors in Pinellas County 11 arrested and charged Tuesday morning New effort an attempt to crack down on unlicensed contractors scamming the public According to Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, deputies began rounding up the contractors at 5 a.m. during "Operation Nailed." The men, roofers, painters and construction workers are accused of scamming residents out of thousands of dollars in the past few months. The roundup was a collaborative operation between the Sheriff's Office, Florida Department of Financial Services, Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board, Pinellas County Consumer Protection and the State Attorney's Office, targeting unlicensed contractors in Pinellas County. Until two months ago, unlicensed contractors normally received simple fines. But in an effort to crack down on members of the public being taken advantage of, arrest warrants are now being issued. "The usual pitches they were doing work in the neighborhood. I've seen their trucks around...I could use them too," said 90-year-old Darlene Anderson, who was victimized. "My only complaint was being cheated out of money." In Florida, doing contractor work without a license is a misdemeanor for the first offense. After that, it is a felony. Gualtieri said the pilot program targeting unlicensed contractors still has four months to go. So far, detectives are working as many as 220 cases. "By the arrests today what we hope to convey is thats a new day," Gualtieri said. "(A) new era to prevent predatory practices in Pinellas County." Pinellas County and the Federal Trade Commission have set up a web site with useful information regarding safely hiring a contractor. Visit the page at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0242-hiring-contractor. This is a nerve-wracking time for many high school seniors and their parents, as the deadline for college applications fast approaches. After months of working on her application and essays, Plant High School Senior Jade Starkey is just about ready to submit. Its stressful at first, because you dont know where to start, Starkey said. But once you have a starting point, and get through it and hit the submit button, its definitely a lot better. Shes been working with college admissions expert Bob LeVine, President of Selective College Consulting, to help identify her strengths and focus her application. Youre in pretty good shape, LeVine told Starkey as he looked over one of her application essays. A Harvard grad and longtime alumni interviewer, LeVine offers unique insight into the admissions process, which differs based on the type of school where you apply. SAT and ACT scores matter a lot with public universities. In fact, they almost matter everything with public universities, Levine explained. With private schools, they are part of an overall holistic approach. Finding the Right School For many students applying to attend college in the fall of 2018, the early decision deadline is November 1st and the regular decision deadline closely follows on January 1st. It is important to be realistic. Pick schools that fit the range of your ability. Before you apply, do a quick online search to check out a schools SAT, ACT & GPA score ranges. If you meet the thresholdyou have a better chance of getting in. If you dont, it doesnt mean you wont get in, but its more of a long shot. The public universitiesUF, USF, UCF, Florida Statetheyre going to look at your test scores and grades, first. If youre above the line, youre basically in. If youre below the line, youre basically out, LeVine said. But on the line, that essay and the resume of activities and honors become the determining factors. For private schools, those essays and out of school activities are even more important. Make sure you are showing your achievements, not just that you showed up, LeVine explained. Dont just write member or participant. The Essay The essay is really where you can differentiate yourself. Dont just re-list your resume. Focus on the personal qualities that paint a picture of who you are. In her essay, Starkey talks about her love of swimming and how its led to some of the most rewarding relationships in her life. I am a people person, she said. I like to form relationships with other people, so I kind of centered my essay around that and found stories from my life that exemplify that. LeVine says most admissions people read through between 25 to 35 applications a day for four months, so its important for that essay to stand out. A good essay is one that is personal, conversational; one that actually speaks to the reader and speaks of your personal and inter-personal attributes, he said. There are some things to avoid in the essays. Dont be a downer, LeVine explained. "Admissions reps call them the four Dsdeath, depression, drugs and divorce. Theyre very busy. Theyre very tired. Try to make them happy, not depressed. An exception might be a poignant story about a challenge in your life. If you do that, he says, be sure to focus on how you overcame that challenge and turned it into a success. Photo: Angie Moreschi The Holistic Approach A poster-sized blow up of the Harvard Admissions Personal Interview Report is on display in LeVines office. The form lists various categories of personal characteristics that Harvard grads consider when doing alumni interviews. It includes things like Intellectual curiosity, Rare personal appeal and character, and What kind of roommate would this student be? LeVine says its a very subjective process. All of them go through the evaluation, but it tends to be Does someone like you or not? he explained. Theyre looking at your contribution to the campus, and if you dont talk to anybody, and if youre not a nice person, you really dont do them much good. Final Tips LeVine recommends that students apply to three tiers of schools reach schools, fit schools, and safety schools. Have a back up plan. Make sure you have a nice blend of universities, that will give you some options, he said. Starkey is applying to seven schools to make sure she has options, but the University of North Carolina is her dream school. I did a visit there sophomore year, she said. All the students seem really nice and friendly and theres such a good alumni program. It just seems like it would be a good fit for me. After months of working on her application and essays, Starkey is just about ready to hit that submit button. I feel pretty good about it, she said with a slightly nervous smile. Final tip before you hit submitre-read everything on your application one last time including those essays. The last things you want are misspellings; or even worse, a faux pas like cutting and pasting an essay you wrote with another schools name on it. Dont make that mistake. Pay attention to detail and good luck! A Q&A with Jennifer Browdy Image credit: Louis Roe Edwidge Dandicat. Julia Alvarez. Jamaica Kincaid. Gloria Anzaldua. Youll find the voices of these incredible writers and others in Women Writing Resistance: Essays on Latin America and the Caribbean. Originally published in 2003, Women Writing Resistance highlights the work of sixteen Latin American and Caribbean authors, urgently calling attention to the need to resist against the systemic patriarchal, racist, and exploitative regimes that have ruled their countries. A resource for activists, this timely compilation demonstrates and enacts how women can collaborate across class, race, and nationality, and illustrates the value of this solidarity in the ongoing struggles for human rights and social justice in the Americas. We caught up with editor Jennifer Browdy to ask her about what the new edition of the anthology means to her and for our uncertain times, and what she hopes readers will take away from the book. Christian Coleman: Tell us what inspired you to put together this anthology. Jennifer Browdy: As a comparatist, I was struck by how the theme of resistance resonated among women writers from different countries and backgrounds in Latin America and the Caribbean, including US Chicanas and Latinx. I wanted to create an anthology that would spark conversations among these women (and among readers) about the issues that so many women face, in the hopes of creating new solidarities of resistance across all the artificial boundaries that too often divide us. CC: What was it like to work with these incredible writers? JB: I learned so much through working with these writers to put together this anthology. They were so generous with their time and talents, and understood immediately what I was trying to do, and why this was bound to be an important collection. CC: Were living in such a politically divisive time in history. How do you view writing as an act of resistance? JB: Writing is one of the most powerful forms of activism, because it can live on into the future, rippling out in unpredictable ways and inspiring so many others. The writers included in Women Writing Resistance are actively reaching out to communicate their perspectives on a whole host of human rights and social justice issues. For them, writing is an act of resistance to all the mainstream forces that too often have silenced and ignored womens voices. Its a way of taking back their agency and insisting on being heard. CC: Women Writing Resistance was originally published in 2003 by South End Press. What does it mean to you to have the anthology reprinted in 2017 by Beacon Press? JB: When I read through the book again as we prepared the 2017 manuscript, I was impressed by how totally contemporary and compelling these stories, poems, and essays are. In part, this is not good news, because it means that many of the issues these women were writing about in 2003 are unresolved and still need active resistance. For example: the oppression of Indigenous women that Rigoberta Menchu describes is still going on today; the struggle for survival of poor Haitian women described by Edwidge Danticat is still as tough as ever; the murders of young Mexican women in Ciudad Juarez that Marjorie Agosin writes about are still unsolved; the struggle of poor Chicana women to find time and the necessary confidence to write is still going on, as Gloria Anzaldua describes. In the politically and environmentally cataclysmic year of 2017, we need the clear, strong voices of these Latinx and Caribbean women writers more than ever. CC: What would you like readers to take away from these essays in our current political climate? JB: Readers of this anthology will come way with a much deeper awareness and appreciation of the extent to which Latinx and Caribbean women have been actively working for positive social changethrough writing and through other forms of resistancefor a very long time. The writers collected here represent the strength and resilience of so many more women, all across Latin America and the Caribbean. In general, women tend to be forward-looking; we never give up working for a better world for future generations. I hope this anthology inspires readers to add their own voices to the chorus and write resistance as well, in the service of the better world we know is possible. About Jennifer Browdy Jennifer Browdy teaches comparative literature and gender studies at Bard College at Simons Rock. She is also a co-editor of African Women Writing Resistance and Writing Fire: An Anthology Celebrating the Power of Womens Words. Follow her on Twitter at @jbrowdy and visit her website. Before you pore over our choices of iconic Texas bars, you should know that the criteria didn't involve places with media buzz or expertly mixed cocktails. While grand bars abound in Texas, the state really prides itself on grungy saloons and loud dance halls, the "old as dirt" establishments that have stood the test of time. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate When Tropical Storm Harvey hit Southeast Texas in September, Nederland native Tim Foust and his all-vocal country group Home Free were on a nationwide tour. After learning of damage in the region, Foust, who graduated from Nederland High School in 1999, began brainstorming with the four other members of the group about ways to help. "It was heartbreaking to see the devastation down here," Foust said. "We sort of felt helpless watching my hometown on the news underwater." That helplessness soon gave way to action. The group, which won Season Four of NBC's "The Sing Off," created a YouCaring fund and donated $20,000 to it, asking fans to collectively match the donation. The fund took off from there and now totals more than $85,000. On Monday, Foust and fellow band member Adam Chance got the chance to see just how that money will be put to use. After a performance at the Temple Theatre in Lufkin on Sunday, the members on Monday visited two local schools and the Southeast Texas Food Bank in Beaumont. Home Free provided new percussion instruments for the Little Cypress-Mauriceville Middle School band, which lost almost all its instruments to flood damage and is still using the high school's facilities. At Orangefield Middle School, the group bought new music folders for the band and a $1,000 gift certificate to Swicegood Music. "It was surreal walking through the school and seeing plywood up on the walls and garbage out in front of the school that has to be thrown away," Chance said of the visit. "It's sad to see that stuff." Foust also checked in with Nederland High School, where his mom teaches special education math, to gauge the music program's needs after the storm. He said the school was more fortunate than others. Home Free annually performs in Nederland, with a portion of the proceeds going to the school's music program. Foust said he hopes the donations to all the schools not only help ease their financial responsibilities but help further the kids' interest in music. "We wanted to stop by and encourage them to stick with music if they love it," Foust said. "We both came from public school music programs. Hopefully it shows them if you really love music, you can make a living doing it." The next stop for Foust and Chance was the Southeast Texas Food Bank, where the group donated $15,000. Executive Director Dan Maher said that amount should provide about 45,000 meals for those in need. "That's our bottom line, that's what we focus on," Maher said. "But I think (Home Free) is focused on helping the community get back to wholeness with a gift like that. There's still many more meals that we need to provide, but this certainly puts a dent in the meals that are being missed." The remainder of the $85,000 raised from the YouCaring fund will go to the Nederland Church of Christ Disaster Relief Fund to be distributed around Southeast Texas. Home Free has set a new goal of $100,000 for the YouCaring fund. Foust said if that goal is reached, the group will donate $20,000 from the fund to support Hurricane Irma relief efforts. The group now resumes its national tour. Foust and Chance left Tuesday for Tuscon, Arizona to rejoin the group for its next performance. Foust said even as he continues making the music he loves, Southeast Texas will be on his mind. "I had sort of forgotten how far there is left to go," Foust said. "I haven't been here to witness it other than news coverage. It's been a real eye-opening experience. I'm really glad we got to see this and report back to the rest of the group." MFaye@BeaumontEnterprise.comTwitter.com/mattGfaye Beaumont's Tyrrell Historical Library will be closed two to three months to repair damage that includes mold in the stained-glass arched dome and vaulted wood ceilings, a library official said. The library has been closed for weeks after mold and fungus were discovered on the 91-year-old side of the library, administrator Paul Eddy said. Several ceiling tiles and beams were damaged when the roof leaked. After power outages caused the building to heat up, the soggy wooden supports in the ceiling started growing mold, Eddy said. "It's a mess, but it is a recoverable mess that we're working diligently to correct," Eddy said. The problem is confinedto the high points of the ceiling, about 50 feet above ground, that was once the Old First Baptist Church, Eddy said. The city is taking bids from local contractors, and repairs will begin in a few weeks, after Beaumont City Council approves a bid, Eddy said. He estimates the library won't be able to reopen for two to three months. None of the books or furniture was damaged at the historical library, but about 5,000 books were lost at the main public library on Pearl Street, Eddy said. The main library's lowest level is below the Neches River, Eddy said. Water coming in through doorways and sewage backups ruined thousands of books in storage, but the building is still operational. More than a month after the storm, dozens of libraries across the region are still shuttered until further notice, including the Port Arthur Public Library, where books were floating in more than three feet of floodwater. The library will be closed indefinitely, the city's Risa Carpenter said. Reconstruction has not even begun, after weeks of remediation and drying out. Historical city documents are being restored through a freeze-drying process. All of the books that were on higher shelves are temporarily being stored in the Civic Center. The city has no idea how much repairs to those two buildings will cost, Carpenter said. Libraries are among the first places people can access digital devices, the internet and information - all of which are required for recovery in the 21st century. When hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit New Orleans and the greater Gulf Coast, libraries were not federally designated as essential services - despite providing refuge and disaster recovery. The disconnect led to a 2011 revision of the Stafford Act, the federal law that outlines how natural disaster assistance is provided to state and local governments. Now, FEMA recognizes the roles of libraries in disaster response as community living rooms providing shelter, food, counseling and computers among many other resources. The update also allows libraries to qualify for federal assistance following disasters. "They're not just a nice amenity for the community. They're really a key element of the community's infrastructure," Texas State Librarian Mark Smith said. "It could be something as simple as just a plug to recharge your phone or just a dry place to sit and use the computers." MGstalter@BeaumontEnterprise.comTwitter.com/morgGstalt Thousands of jobs rely on the C Series project, which uses a plant in Belfast to produce wing sections A major deal between Bombardier and Airbus announced late last night represents great news for workers in Northern Ireland, the plane manufacturer has said. European multinational Airbus is to acquire a majority stake in Canadian-owned Bombardiers C Series aircraft, the wings of which are made in its east Belfast factory. DUP leader Arlene Foster MLA said the announcement represented incredibly significant news for Bombardier, Belfast and Northern Ireland. And Michael Ryan, President of Bombardier Aerostructures and Engineering Services, said: This is great news for our Belfast site. This is a tremendous opportunity for us to build on our existing supplier relationship with Airbus. Mr Ryan added: Todays announcement serves to strengthen the position of the C Series aircraft programme on the international market, and the resulting momentum will be felt positively in our business and throughout the Northern Ireland and UK supply chain. Mrs Foster said Airbus clearly recognise the value of the C Series. I welcome their interest and investment, she said. Having personally supported the aircraft through its development, Im thrilled there is a bright future ahead following what has been a dark time for staff and management. Airbus are a fitting partner. I look forward to engaging with them closely. Airbus and Bombardier Belfast know each other well. There are good synergies between the companies. I hope this will safeguard the C Series programme. East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson added: Over the last four months, our focus has been the Belfast workforce and securing a successful resolution to this ongoing dispute. Whilst there is some way to travel, we will offer our full support in securing the necessary regulatory approvals. The commitment to the Belfast facility is a testament to the ingenuity of the workforce. They should be proud that their valuable capability will continue to play a crucial role in C Series. Bombardier has been trying to stop a cash drain after the C Series came to market behind schedule and $2bn over budget. The delays and cost overruns prompted Bombardier to accept a $1bn investment from Quebec. Bombardier, which employs more than 4,000 workers in Northern Ireland, was then hit by a proposed 300% tariff on exports to the US that threatened jobs in Belfast. It followed a complaint by US maker Boeing, which accused Bombardier of dumping the C Series at below market value. Bombardier believes it can now circumvent the US tariff by moving part of its production to Arizona. Belfast Cocktail Week has kicked off with a host of events scheduled to celebrate the perfect tipple of your choosing. From October 16-22, Belfast cocktail lovers are invited to visit a number of bars in the city centre, with many creating the own bespoke cocktail for the occaision. To join in on the festivities, Belfast Telegraph has a filmed exclusive videos which demonstrate how to make the perfect cocktails: Smoking Cinnamon Zombie Cocktail Ingredients: 20ml Barcadi Carta Blanca 20ml Barcardi Negra 20ml Barcadi 8 Year 10ml Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum 40ml pink grapefruit juice 12.5ml pomegranate molasses 12.5ml falernum syrup 10ml cinnamon syrup 2 dashes absinthe 2 dashes Angosutra bitters Green Eyed Guard Ingredients 35ml beefeater 15ml green Chartreuse 25ml lemon juice 25ml pineapple juice 35ml rhubarb syrup 2 dash orange bitters 1 egg white Method Add all ingredients to a shaker. Shake and strain over ice cubes into a highball glass. Garnish with pineapple leaf and lemon wedge. The Medallion Ingredients 60ml lemongrass infused beefeater 24 20ml lemon sherbet 10ml lemon juice 5ml grappa 2 dashes absinthe 2 dashes lemon bitters mint Belfast Cocktail Week organiser, Bronagh Bennett, said: Belfast Cocktail Week is a way of showing that Belfast can compete on an international level alongside cities with great cocktail cultures such as London, Edinburgh and even New York. Belfast and Northern Irelands hospitality sector has come a long way in recent years and customers are really broadening their horizons. The wide range of events taking place during the festival will appeal to everyone and I hope it encourages people to try something new. We are looking forward to bringing this week-long event to Belfasts Cathedral Quarter and hope it will be the first of many. For a full line-up of events and further information, visit www.belfastcocktailweek.co.uk. Please enjoy responsibly - for more information, visit www.drinkaware.co.uk To mark Breast Cancer Awareness month, Lisburn mum Audra Wright and Newry woman Patricia Jennings talk about how Action Cancers screening services saved their lives. 'Getting the diagnosis was like throwing a deck of cards up in the air' Audra Wright (50), lives in Lisburn with her husband Nigel and their three children, Jamie (24), Josh (21) and Annabel (14). Audra was diagnosed with Action Cancer in December 2015 at the age of 48 when she visited Action Cancer House for a breast screening. She says: I had my first breast screening in 2011 at Action Cancer, after losing my beloved father to lung cancer in 2010. During my father's illness I was made aware of Action Cancer as a support for myself and my father. I availed of all the services available to me and, more importantly, found out at this stage that Action Cancer offers a free breast screening for women aged from 40-49 and over 70 years of age. My previous screenings with Action Cancer had been clear, but two weeks after the appointment in 2015 I received a letter from Action Cancer with some concerning news - that the screening had detected something. My follow-up appointment was at Belfast City Hospital, where I had more tests. Following an examination, an ultrasound and a biopsy at the hospital I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in my left breast. My life changed from the moment of diagnosis, it was like getting a deck of cards and throwing them up in the air; life would never be the same again. I believe I was in shock but went through the motions of telling close family and friends. On February 9, 2016, I had a lumpectomy and a lymph node dissection. Afterwards I had six sessions of chemotherapy which made me incredibly ill. The first session affected me so badly I had to call the 24-hour helpline at Belfast City Hospital for advice and antibiotics. Then, during the third session I had to be hospitalised overnight and by the time I had my fifth session I was admitted to the Cancer Centre for 12 days with septicaemia. The effects of the chemotherapy took its toll. I was physically and mentally scarred. I had hair loss, weight gain, a swollen face and scars on my left breast. The chemotherapy caused fatigue and nausea. I had limited mobility, shortness of breath and an ache in my bones. I lost my identity and sense of self. My tolerance levels were low and my self-esteem plummeted. Expand Close Tough fight: Audra Wright / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Tough fight: Audra Wright At this stage I still needed more treatment and had a long course of radiotherapy, which left me exhausted. Then in December that year, I had another terrible shock. My younger sister, Kathy Ann, who had had a breast cancer diagnosis when she was 45, three weeks after my diagnosis, discovered she carried the BRCA gene. I had a blood test taken by a geneticist and was found to carry the same BRCA gene as my sister. At an appointment with a geneticist I was told that being a BRCA gene carrier meant I had a higher risk of getting breast cancer at 50% and ovarian cancer at 30%. Shortly afterwards I discovered both my sisters, as well as myself, are BRCA gene-carriers. I felt absolutely devastated as I already felt I had been through enough over the last year and knew it was going to mean more surgery. As I am now classed as a high-risk cancer patient, I have to attend Antrim Area Hospital's breast screening clinic for MRI and scans every year, and six monthly check-ups if there are any changes. Having met with a breast surgeon I have decided to have a double mastectomy as risk-reducing surgery. I am currently waiting for the operation. A gynaecologist also told me that I would need to have a hysterectomy as a precaution due to my increased risk of a gynaecological cancer. I've had the op and am recovering well. Because of my experience I cannot emphasise enough how important screening is. Early detection of breast cancer saves lives. I'd encourage all women to add this to your to-do list as soon as you hit 40. My family has been devastated over the last two years with the shocking news of myself being diagnosed and then three weeks later my younger sister being diagnosed with breast cancer. It was very difficult for mum having two daughters really ill. The most devastating news then came when all three girls were diagnosed with BRCA 2 gene, so all required further screening and surgery. Action Cancer has helped me so much with its services. I had a great experience with counselling and acupuncture I feel that Action Cancer support services definitely aided my recovery as cancer affects the physical, mental and emotional sides. I struggled through depression, anxiety, fear, lack of self-worth and lost myself, but Action Cancer's counselling supported me through it all." 'If I had have waited for a screening it could have been too late for me' Patricia Jennings (42), lives and works in Newry where she is a college lecturer teaching young adults aged 14-18. She was diagnosed with Action Cancer on February 25, 2016, at the age of 41 when the Big Bus came to Warrenpoint and her sister alerted her to the breast screening appointments available free. She says: I had no symptoms of breast cancer, but at 41, I thought I would go along with my sister as the Big Bus was so handy for me - about 20 minutes drive from work to Warrenpoint. The appointment was quick and easy enough. It was my first mammogram, but it wasn't nearly as painful as I had been led to believe. The staff were lovely and I was glad to have gone. A week later, I received a letter from Action Cancer telling me that I was to attend a further appointment at Belfast City Hospital, as an anomaly had been found during my screening on the Big Bus. The nurse at the hospital did a physical exam and felt a slight lump on my right breast. I went alone to the appointment, as I didn't want to worry any of my family or friends until I knew what it was I was dealing with. After a biopsy and a scan of the lump I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Grade B breast cancer. After Easter 2016 I had a lumpectomy and also had a lymph node removed to check for any further signs of cancer. Thankfully the cancer had not spread. Early detection was important to me. I was lucky I was caught early. My attitude was, and still is, you just have to get on with it. My family and friends were a great support. Expand Close Enjoying life: Patricia Jennings / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Enjoying life: Patricia Jennings Because of early detection, I didn't need to have chemotherapy although I did have a three-week course of radiotherapy as treatment. Now I take Tamoxifen hormonal therapy as additional treatment following surgery, to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back and to reduce the risk of a new breast cancer developing. Luckily, I suffered few side- effects with the Tamoxifen and am recovering well. The diagnosis has changed me and I no longer worry about the small things in life. Thankfully, I am now cancer-free and believe the Big Bus and my older sister's advice saved my life. I'm now back to work and have been on a holiday to New York and Boston this summer with a group of friends to celebrate beating cancer and getting back to my old self. As a keen traveller I am planning more trips to Europe and further afield soon, including a fundraising attempt at the Camino di Santiago next summer. The journey I made that day, just 20 minutes down the road to the Big Bus screening appointment, changed my life forever. It was the most important journey of my life. I knew that breast screening was available in Belfast, but it's probably not something I would have bothered to do. It was the very fact that the Big Bus came to me, close to where I lived, that I went for an appointment. I was 41 when my breast cancer was detected, if I had waited until the health service screening programme kicked in at 50, I'm convinced it would have been too late for me. My message to other women aged 40-49 and 70-plus is this - go and get screened with Action Cancer. Don't rely on self-checking your breasts, while this is important, mammograms detect things long before there is anything to feel. Be proactive and book yourself a free mammogram, either on board the Big Bus when it's next in your area or at Action Cancer House in Belfast. If I hadn't stepped on the Big Bus that day, my outcome could have been very different. Thank you Action Cancer and the Big Bus for saving my life." For further information, contact Action Cancer's Communications Manager Sian Devlin, tel: 028 9080 3361/07825 266 951 or email siandevlin@actioncancer.org Northern Ireland Cancer Registry: Breast cancer incidence and mortality rates 1993-2014 Visit nhs.uk/Conditions/Cancer-of-the-breast-female/Pages/Symptoms.aspx Never ignore the vital signs... The first symptom of breast cancer most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast. Most lumps (90%) are not cancerous, but it is always best to have them checked by your doctor. See your GP if you notice any of the following: The European Union is willing to bend the rules for Northern Ireland after Brexit - something that the province should take full advantage of, the Taoiseach has said. Leo Varadkar was speaking to BBC NI's Spotlight as the talks to restore Stormont reach a critical stage. He told interviewer Jim Fitzpatrick that the peace process could be scuppered if Brexit is not handled well by the UK. "We've had enormous progress in the last couple of decades. Increased prosperity on both sides of the border and almost total peace. Potentially those things are in jeopardy if the wrong decisions are made," the Fine Gael leader said. Mr Varadkar was critical of how the Conservative government has handled the Brexit negotiations and the financial 'divorce' settlement with the EU. "You can't have the benefits of being a member of a club if you don't obey the rules and you won't pay the membership fee," he said. "So it is quite a difficult negotiation when people who want to leave the European Union in Britain don't really seem to agree among themselves what that actually means." Mr Varadkar has previously urged the UK to pursue a 'soft' Brexit, staying within the customs union - an option that the Tory government has ruled out. But he suggested that there could be bespoke arrangements for Northern Ireland - although unionists are opposed to any 'special status' for the province - which could place the province in an advantageous position. Mr Varadkar said European leaders have "a real understanding that Northern Ireland is unique". "And because of that there will be enormous flexibility shown towards Northern Ireland," he said. "Whereas a hard line may be taken in negotiations with Britain and with London, there is a real willingness across Europe to be flexible and creative when it comes to Northern Ireland, to create a unique solution for Northern Ireland if that's required. "And I just hope that the people and the politicians in Northern Ireland understand that's actually [it] could be a big advantage for this part of the world, and this part of the country. And not to see it as some sort of threat to the constitutional settlement or some sort of threat to the Union. It isn't. "There is a willingness to be flexible, to bend the rules for Northern Ireland and I really hope that Northern Irish political leaders and the community here in Northern Ireland takes advantage of that." Mr Varadkar also put the issue of a united Ireland on the backburner, saying he would prefer it happened through consensus when it did. "One of the best things about the Good Friday Agreement is that it did get very strong cross-border support - that's why there was a 70% vote for it. I don't think that there would be a 70% vote for a united Ireland in the morning, for example, or anything remotely to that. And I really think we should focus on making the agreement that we have work," he said. Spotlight, BBC1 NI, tonight 10.40pm Former US president Bill Clinton arriving at the Culloden Hotel in Belfast for private engagements where it is understood he will meet with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Former US president Bill Clinton arriving at the Culloden Hotel in Belfast for private engagements where it is understood he will meet with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Former US President Bill Clinton pictured at the Culloden Hotel outside Belfast after meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Former US President Bill Clinton pictured at the Culloden Hotel outside Belfast after meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Former US President Bill Clinton pictured at the Culloden Hotel outside Belfast after meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 17th October 2017 - Former US President Bill Clinton pictured at the Culloden Hotel outside Belfast after meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Former US President Bill Clinton pictured at the Culloden Hotel outside Belfast after meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Former US President Bill Clinton pictured at the Culloden Hotel outside Belfast after meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Former US President Bill Clinton pictured at the Culloden Hotel outside Belfast after meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. US president Bill Clinton was in Belfast to try and broker a deal in the Northern Ireland political stalemate. Mr Clinton had been due to arrive on Monday but was delayed by the storm. On Tuesday he met with DUP leader Arlene Foster, and in a separate meeting, met with Sinn Fein's leader in Northern Ireland Michelle O'Neill and Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams. 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 Tuesday's meeting with Arlene Foster took place at the Culloden Hotel, and focused partly on an announcement by Dublin City University, Ulster University and the University of Massachusetts of a joint initiative to remodel the Clinton Centre in Enniskillen. The Clinton Centre was opened by President Clinton in 2002 and is dedicated to peace and prosperity around the world. Speaking during a joint press conference, Mrs Foster said: "I am delighted to welcome President Bill Clinton to Northern Ireland. He is no stranger to us and we deeply appreciate the part he has played over many years in helping to ensure Northern Ireland has a peaceful and prosperous future. "I welcome plans to remodel and expand the work of the Clinton Centre. It is a significant boost to Enniskillen in particular and Northern Ireland in general. "The collaborative nature of this project is significant. It involves working in partnership with the University of Ulster, Dublin City University and Massachusetts University who will deliver a significant academic programme. This model will benefit all involved as well as boost the entire area." Sinn Fein's senior representatives met with President Clinton in Belfast. Expand Close Former US president Bill Clinton arriving at the Culloden Hotel in Belfast for private engagements where it is understood he will meet with DUP leader Arlene Foster. PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Former US president Bill Clinton arriving at the Culloden Hotel in Belfast for private engagements where it is understood he will meet with DUP leader Arlene Foster. Speaking following the meeting, Michelle O'Neill said: "Gerry Adams and I met with President Clinton in Belfast today [Tuesday]. "We had a wide ranging discussion on a number of issues including the current difficulties facing the political process, efforts to restore the political institutions on the basis of rights and equality and the implications of Brexit." Ongoing deadlock Northern Ireland's devolved institutions have been in limbo since Sinn Fein walked out of government in January. Months of talks have failed in reaching a deal between the republicans and the DUP. With no end in sight to the political stalemate, the region could be moving back to direct rule. Since his first visit to Northern Ireland in 1995, Bill Clinton has been the most high-profile international champion of the peace process. Three visits while he was US president and several since he left office have underlined his commitment to being an enabler of compromise. However, he has also taken on the role of exerting pressure on both sides when political progress seemed to have stalled. Mr Clinton received an honorary doctorate from Dublin City University on Tuesday morning. Drugs and paramilitary paraphernalia were seized during the police operation Four people have been arrested as part of a police operation against suspected loyalist paramilitary activity. Detectives from the PSNI's Paramilitary Crime Taskforce made the arrests during two days of searches targeting the UDA in West Belfast. It is understood one of those detained is an alleged senior leadership figure in the criminal organisation. The suspects are aged 24, 32, 34 and 36. Drugs and paramilitary paraphernalia were seized during the operation. PSNI Detective Inspector Heather Whoriskey said: "Police have conducted 13 searches over the past two days in North Belfast, Holywood and Portadown. "During the course of these we have seized numerous paramilitary uniforms and associated paraphernalia including badges, flags and UDA ties. We have also found drugs - steroids and cannabis - as well as mobile phones, tablets, and a gun holster and ammunition. "Four men aged 24, 32, 34 and 36 were arrested under Terrorism legislation in North Belfast on suspicion of being members of a proscribed organisation, namely the UDA." Two of the men, aged 34 and 36, were subsequently released pending a report to prosecutors for the offence of membership of a proscribed organisation. The 36-year-old will also be reported to the PPS for the offence of being concerned in the supply of Class C controlled drugs. The 24-year-old and 32-year-old remained in police custody on Tuesday evening. Ms Whoriskey added: "While these searches and arrests focused specifically on the West Belfast UDA, we will continue to target all paramilitary groups and disrupt their illegal activities which only serve to blight the communities they operate in. "These people prey on the most vulnerable members of their communities and try to control them by using fear and violence. "The PSNI is committed to disrupting their activity and we are working hard to rid our communities of the paramilitary groupings but we need your help. "I understand that people feel afraid to speak out against these paramilitaries, but police need information from local people - as we will act on information we receive. It may not always be visible and immediate but please be assured that every piece of information is assessed and acted on." She urged anyone with information to contact the PSNI on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Flowers are placed at the scene Further forensic tests are to be carried out on a young boy who died suddenly following an incident at his home in Northern Ireland. It's believed 10-year-old Ryan Busa was attacked by the family dog at his home in Glengormley, Co Antrim, on Sunday afternoon. A post-mortem took place yesterday, however more tests are to be carried out. Police investigating the death believe the child may have been mauled to death by the family's German Shepherd. Floral tributes to the young boy have been left outside his home in Queen's Park, where the family moved a year ago. Forensic officers continued their investigation yesterday as the local community struggled to come to terms with the shocking death. Emergency services were called to the property at around noon on Sunday, where they found Ryan covered in blood with lacerations to his face. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said it treated a young boy at the scene. He was rushed to the Royal Victoria Hospital. However, he died a short time later. The Lithuanian family-of-three - a father and two young sons - had lived in the terraced property for around a year. Ryan was a pupil at Ashgrove Primary School. His younger brother, who is seven years old, attends Hillcroft School. SDLP councillor Noreen McClelland described the sense of shock in the area. "No one can believe that something so tragic can happen in their street. It's a frightening situation for any family," she said. A 38-year-old man remained in police custody last night helping officers with their enquiries into the incident. The PSNI appealed for anyone who may be able to assist detectives to contact police on the non-emergency number. "A post-mortem examination was carried out on Monday and further forensic tests are due," a spokeswoman said. "While this process is ongoing it would be inappropriate to elaborate further. "Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death. "The PSNI would appeal to anyone who believes they can assist, to get in touch by calling 101." A father-of-one facing a murder charge told a friend that he thought he broke his foot attacking his victim, a court has heard. Rhys Magee is accused of murdering Richard Miskelly (24), who died in the driveway of a Newtownards house in February. Magee, who was granted bail with strict conditions by Mr Justice Colton yesterday, is due to be arraigned later this month. Belfast Crown Court heard Magee had consumed alcohol and ketamine before the attack. As well as murder, the 20-year-old from Carrowdore Road in Newtownards is facing two counts of perverting the course of justice. Opposing bail, Crown barrister Laura Ivers revealed that despite initially claiming not to have attacked Mr Miskelly, Magee later told police he punched him twice, and kicked him to the side of his head once. He is also alleged to have told a friend at the scene that he thought he had broken his foot kicking Mr Miskelly. Mr Miskelly, from Newtownards, died from a bleed on the brain caused by blunt force trauma to the head. Prosecutor Laura Ivers said the fatal attack occurred outside a Bangor Road house after Mr Miskelly and his friend were asked to leave a party. Both men were pushed out, and it is the Crown's case that shortly afterwards, Magee attacked Mr Miskelly, including landing a kick to the side of his head that caused him to fall back with his head hitting the ground. An ambulance was called and Magee carried out chest compressions on Mr Miskelly for around 10 minutes. Ms Ivers said in the aftermath of the attack, Magee is also alleged to have told his friend that "you didn't see anything". When Magee was arrested, he claimed he didn't know what had happened to Mr Miskelly. But during his fourth interview, Magee admitted punching Mr Miskelly twice and kicking him to the left side of his neck. Lisnagelvin Primary School in Londonderry which was closed due to Storm Ophelia The scene on the Albertbridge Road in east Belfast after the front of a building collapsed Northern Ireland was left counting the cost of Storm Ophelia yesterday, as violent winds from the ex-hurricane closed schools, grounded flights and led to evacuations along coastal areas. Shortly before midnight, NIE confirmed that around 8,000 customers would be without electricity overnight across the province. Supplies were restored to 41,000 customers, and crews in some areas worked through the night to repair the network. Southern and eastern areas were the worst affected. NIE Networks Communications spokesperson Sara McClintock said: "We are currently dealing with nearly 1,000 individual faults which we continue to assess, make safe and begin repairs. "All of our 12 Local Incident Centres are open, with our engineers and emergency crews responding to faults and working to restore customer supplies in extremely poor conditions." Around 160 Department for Infrastructure staff and contractors cleared debris from around 100 roads. The Department received around 400 road-related incident, but all motorways are now open. Around 200 roads were still affected last night, with around 40 roads closed including the A2 Shore road Larne to Cushendall and the Dark Hedges road in north Antrim. Meanwhile, the Fire Service received 75 weather-related calls between 2pm and 10pm yesterday and attended 30 incidents. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Alan Walmsley said there had been no injuries as the public had largely heeded safety advice. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close A Building collapses on the Albertbridge Road in East Belfast as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. / Credit: PressEye/ Matt Mackey The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. / Credit: PressEye, Matt Mackey PACEMAKER BELFAST 16/10/2017 A fallen tree closes the Malone Road in Belfast as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday, The Met Office has an amber warning for very windy weather in place from midday through to midnight on Monday, affecting all parts of the region. All schools have been closed for the day while QueenOs University has cancelled classes. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 16/10/2017 High street in Bangor has been closed due to unstable scaffolding as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday, The Met Office has an amber warning for very windy weather in place from midday through to midnight on Monday, affecting all parts of the region. All schools have been closed for the day while QueenOs University has cancelled classes. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 16/10/2017 High street in Bangor has been closed due to unstable scaffolding as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday, The Met Office has an amber warning for very windy weather in place from midday through to midnight on Monday, affecting all parts of the region. All schools have been closed for the day while QueenOs University has cancelled classes. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 16/10/2017 High street in Bangor has been closed due to unstable scaffolding as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday, The Met Office has an amber warning for very windy weather in place from midday through to midnight on Monday, affecting all parts of the region. All schools have been closed for the day while QueenOs University has cancelled classes. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 16/10/2017 Battling threw the heavy winds in Donaghadee as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday, The Met Office has an amber warning for very windy weather in place from midday through to midnight on Monday, affecting all parts of the region. All schools have been closed for the day while QueenOs University has cancelled classes. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 16/10/2017 Battling threw the heavy winds in Donaghadee as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday, The Met Office has an amber warning for very windy weather in place from midday through to midnight on Monday, affecting all parts of the region. All schools have been closed for the day while QueenOs University has cancelled classes. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PACEMAKER BELFAST 16/10/2017 Battling threw the heavy winds in Donaghadee as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday, The Met Office has an amber warning for very windy weather in place from midday through to midnight on Monday, affecting all parts of the region. All schools have been closed for the day while QueenOs University has cancelled classes. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press PEACE BRIDGE CLOSED. . . . .A PSNI officer braves the elements to secure the Peace Bridge in Derry/Londonderry last night. The footbridge between the cityside and waterside was closed around 6.15pm as winds increased. (Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography) Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 The scene on the Albertbridge in East Belfast after the front of a building collapsed as Hurricane Ophelia begins to batter the city. Photo by Matt Mackey Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 A fallen tree blocks a street off the Upper Newtownards Road in east Belfast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 A fallen tree blocks a street off the Upper Newtownards Road in east Belfast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 A fallen tree blocks a street off the Upper Newtownards Road in east Belfast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 A fallen tree blocks a street off the Upper Newtownards Road in east Belfast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Strong winds forecast to hit Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th October 2017 Strong winds hit Donaghadee on the Co. Down coast as storm Ophelia spreads across Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A Building collapses on the Albertbridge Road in East Belfast as Storm Ophelia hits across Northern Ireland on Monday. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press "It was good that a lot of people listened to the safety advice, a lot of workplaces closed early and people stayed inside," he said. "We attended 30 incidents across the province that were weather-related, ranging from electrical poles to a number of buildings which had to be made safe as they were losing parts of their structure. "There was also a road traffic collision involving a tree falling onto a car on the Comber Road. The lady had a lucky escape as she was in the vehicle and the tree landed on her bonnet." In east Antrim, the tide came over the sea wall at Whitehead and the Gobbins Visitor Centre was opened as a Rest Centre. Sandbags were also deployed in Newcastle and Newtownards as tidal surges threatened the coast. "Our flood teams were working with police to evacuate residents from apartments in the Rodgers Quay area of Carrickfergus due to the risk of flooding from tidal surges. Residents have been taken to the town hall," said Mr Walmsley. "Our crews also helped to move residents of Whitehead Private Nursing Home to a higher floor, and we have a crew standing by at a number of properties on the seafront in Whitehead due to the flood risk." Larne and Bangor RNLI were scrambled and about to launch into winds gusting up to 60mph following reports of people in the water at Whitehead. Just as they were about to sail out, the PSNI found the two females concerned ashore safe and well. Schools and all further education colleges across Northern Ireland are also closed for a second day today. The Department of Education, which had faced criticism for only issuing Monday's closure notice for schools very late on Sunday night, ensured that parents were given more warning ahead of today's closure. Derek Baker, Permanent Secretary of the Department for Education, said: "I fully appreciate this decision will impact on the work of the schools and indeed on other businesses and services but the decision has been taken to avoid any potential risk to life for children and young people as well as staff." All colleges also remain closed today. Airline Flybe, which had been forced to cancel around 170 flights, including all those to and from Belfast City Airport yesterday, says it is planning to operate a "normal schedule" across its network today. A Met Office yellow weather warning for "very strong winds" of between 50 and 60mph will remain in place until 3pm today. Unelected civil servants making key decisions as Storm Ophelia batters Northern Ireland is a "wake-up call" to the DUP and Sinn Fein to reach a deal to restore power-sharing, an Ulster Unionist MLA has said. Upper Bann representative Doug Beattie said the public would feel let down by their politicians as it was "left to civil servants to deal with the crisis". Mr Beattie said blame for the belated response on some matters such as closing schools ultimately lay with Northern Ireland's political leaders who had "abdicated their responsibility to govern". He said senior civil servants had done "a good job in very challenging circumstances" but an Executive comprised of MLAs would have been far better equipped to deal with the storm. "It should have been a local education minister making decisions about schools. It should have been a local health minister making decisions about hospital appointments. "It should have been a local infrastructure minister dealing with the situation on our roads. "It should have been a local justice minister liaising with the police," he said. "Instead, it has fallen to civil servants who aren't accountable to the electorate to take these key decisions. They're having to run Northern Ireland because certain politicians won't." The head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, David Sterling, yesterday chaired a meeting of the civil contingencies group at Stormont to assess how best to deliver public services in the midst of Ophelia. He defended the authorities handling of the storm after criticism that some key decisions, especially regarding the closure of schools, were made very late. Mr Beattie said: "The criticism is understandable but civil servants aren't used to making these calls. They find it awkward as they normally look to devolved or direct rule ministers to take these decisions. "Our politicians have been bystanders to the crisis." TUV leader Jim Allister said he didn't believe having an Executive in place would have significantly changed the response. "No politician or civil servant can counter nature," he said. "Announcing on Sunday night that schools are closing on Monday seems tardy. "Declaring on Monday afternoon that all schools are shutting on Tuesday is perhaps an over-reaction to compensate for the previous late decision. "That aside, I don't see how having a First and Deputy First Minister in place would have changed things. The only difference would have been presentational, not substantial. Emergency services would have operated in exactly the same way." Belfast DUP councillor Graham Craig said he believed there had been an "overreaction" to the storm in some cases. "I can't comprehend why the whole of the Civil Service shut down at lunch-time on Monday either. Belfast City Council closed all leisure and community centres yet Belfast didn't bear the brunt of the storm," he said. "The entire city centre basically shut down at midday yesterday. I was out for a walk on Comber Greenway and it wasn't that bad at all. There has been an overreaction fostered by media hype." Secretary of State James Brokenshire said he had kept in regular contact with Mr Sterling and "representatives from multi-agency emergency response organisations" about the storm. He said contingency plans were in place "with the relevant resources and networks tasked to ensure public services are protected as far as possible". The British Government stood ready to "provide a full range of support if requested", he added. A two-day PSNI crackdown on the UDA has seen four men arrested and number of items including uniforms and drugs seized. The operation was carried out by the PSNI's Paramilitary Crime Taskforce into the activity of the West Belfast UDA. While the operation focused on the activity of the West Belfast UDA, the 13 searches were carried out in the north Belfast, Holywood and Portadown areas. Four men aged 24, 32, 34, and 36 were arrested under terrorism legislation during the searches in north Belfast on suspicion of membership of the UDA, a proscribed terrorist organisation. The individuals were questioned at Musgrave Serious Crime Suite, with two of the men - the 34-year-old and 36-year-old - being released pending a report to the PPS for the offence of membership of a proscribed organisation. The 36-year-old will also be reported to the PPS for the offence of being concerned in the supply of Class C drugs. The 24-year-old and 32-year-old remain in custody at this time. During the searches paramilitary uniforms and associated paraphernalia including badges, flags and UDA ties were found. Steroids and cannabis were also discovered, as well as mobile phones, tablets, a gun holster and ammunition. Speaking about the raids, Detective Inspector Heather Whoriskey said: "We will continue to target all paramilitary groups and disrupt their illegal activities which only serve to blight the communities they operate in. These people prey on the most vulnerable members of their communities and try to control them by using fear and violence. "The PSNI is committed to disrupting their activity and we are working hard to rid our communities of the paramilitary groupings but we need your help. "I understand that people feel afraid to speak out against these paramilitaries, but police need information from local people as we will act on information we receive. It may not always be visible and immediate but please be assured that every piece of information is assessed and acted on." Anyone with any information about paramilitary activity can contact the PSNI on 101, or independent charity Crimestoppers can be reached anonymously on 0800 555 111. The Prime Minister has said it is vital that Stormont's power-sharing Executive is restored so that local politicians can making decisions about Northern Ireland. Theresa May discussed progress at the talks in a telephone call yesterday to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. A Downing Street spokeswoman said: "They discussed the political situation in Northern Ireland and their shared concern over the lack of devolved government (for) nine months. "Both leaders noted that while progress has been made over the past few weeks significant gaps still remained, including on Irish language, and it was up to the two main parties to overcome differences and reach agreement." The Prime Minister had made it "absolutely clear" that it was in the interests of everyone in Northern Ireland to see an Executive up and running "so that local decisions could be made by local politicians", the No.10 spokeswoman said. Responding to Mrs May's comments, Sinn Fein's Northern Ireland leader Michelle O'Neill said the Tory Government wasn't a "neutral broker". Ms O'Neill said: "Their reckless and partisan approach is a central cause of the current crisis. "Whitehall's repeated austerity cuts to the north's block grant and the refusal to implement the legacy agreement from Stormont House have badly undermined the sustainability of the power-sharing institutions and our ability to deal effectively with the past. "They have refused to progress the Bill of Rights and Irish Language Act, formed a formal political partnership with the DUP at Westminster and are pursuing a hard Brexit which further undermines past agreements and the political process here." Mrs O'Neill said if the talks were to succeed, there must be "a step change in the British Government approach and a clear demonstration that past agreements and any new commitments will be honoured". Meanwhile, Northern Ireland Office minister Chloe Smith said the Executive needs to be up and running as soon as possible so its voice can be heard at the Brexit talks. Speaking at a British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly plenary made up of elected members from Britain, the Republic and Northern Ireland in Liverpool yesterday, she stressed that time to restore the political institutions was quickly running out. "In order to make real progress with prosperity in Northern Ireland we need a functioning, effective devolved government," she said. "A devolved government that can contribute to the important discussions about how the UK will leave the EU, alongside the devolved governments in Scotland and Wales." Ms Smith insisted that it was down to the country's two largest parties to come together and make the agreement. "The issues that remain to be resolved between the parties are small in number but no one should underestimate how difficult this gap is for the parties to bridge," she said. Ms Smith said if agreement wasn't reached soon, James Brokenshire would have to carefully consider the next steps available to him. He has previously warned that he will pass a budget for Northern Ireland in the House of Commons by the end of the month if there isn't a political breakthrough. "It would be with great regret and reluctance that increased political decision-making from Westminster would become a reality," Ms Smith said. "But, if a deal is not reached imminently, that greater involvement, beginning with Westminster legislation to set a 2017-18 budget for Northern Ireland, risks becoming inevitable." Ms Smith said. Brexit minister Robin Walker told delegates that leaving the EU wouldn't mean a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic. "We place a huge value on the relationship between Ireland and the UK and the issues unique to Ireland and Northern Ireland will always be at the forefront of the negotiations," he said. A man takes a selfie in waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare on the west coast of Ireland Thousands of people remain without power and water following Storm Ophelia, with a huge recovery operation under way across Ireland. Three people died when the ex-hurricane, the strongest storm to hit Ireland in almost 60 years, battered the country on Monday. A major clean-up and repair operation has begun with engineers working to restore downed power lines and crews clearing away fallen trees. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, who visited engineers working to restore power in some of the worst-hit areas, said it could be eight days before some people get power switched back on. "It is anticipated that the vast majority of people will have power restored in the next three to four days," he said. "Some may be without power for eight days." Father-of-two Fintan Goss, 33, was killed in Ravensdale, Dundalk, when a car he was in was struck by a tree 10 minutes from home on Monday. Louth county councillor John McGahon described Mr Goss, who he said became a father for the second time in recent weeks, and his family as "extremely well-regarded in the community". In Cahir, Co Tipperary, 31-year-old Michael Pyke was killed in a chainsaw accident when he was trying to clear a tree downed by the wind. Earlier, former oncology nurse Clare O'Neill, who was just short of her 59th birthday, died when a tree fell on her car in strong winds near Aglish village in Co Waterford. Tributes were paid to Ms O'Neill, who worked as a nurse at Cork ARC Cancer Support House for more than a decade. Ellen Joyce, director of services at the charity, said: "We are all deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our friend and colleague Clare O'Neill. "She was a wonderful nurse and a special person who will be missed by the Cork ARC Cancer Support House team, our volunteers and all the people and patients she worked with here and in Youghal. "Our thoughts are with her family at this most difficult time." Mr Varadkar said there had been two incidents where emergency workers had almost died due to downed power lines. Around 170,000 customers were still without power on Tuesday afternoon, with the worst damage in the southern part of the Republic. People in the worst affected areas, from Wexford to Skibbereen in Co Cork, have been asked to conserve their water supply as far as possible while repair work continues as reservoirs are refilled. Soldiers have been deployed in the Republic, along with two military vehicles and two helicopters to help assess damage as thousands of ESB staff work to fix fallen and broken cables. Crews from Northern Ireland will join efforts this evening while others from Scotland and France are expected to be drafted in to help from Wednesday. A spokesman for ESB said there had been reports of a number of "very near misses" involving those working to restore supply almost making contact with live electrical wires. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and stay safe if they come across any fallen wires. Following reports that some people had ignored the "danger to life" warnings issued, Sean Hogan, chairman of the national emergency co-ordination group, said: "I deplore people who put lives of public sector workers at risk from some of their actions. "I think they need to have a strong look at themselves." Schools, which took a second day off, are expected to reopen on Wednesday although some may be unable to do so due to damage, a spokeswoman for the Republic's education authority said. A clear-up operation is also under way in Northern Ireland, where around 1,800 homes and businesses are still experiencing disrupted electricity supplies, with the worst affected parts across counties Down, Armagh and Antrim. The head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, David Sterling, said: "As people return to work there is a need for care, particularly in relation to large trees and electric lines. "Contractors should also check all scaffolding to ensure it hasn't moved during the storm." The civil contingencies group, which helped co-ordinate the response in Northern Ireland, was stood down on Tuesday morning after updates from agencies involved in the clear-up. Violent winds peaked at 119mph (191kph) at Fastnet Lighthouse off the south-west coast of Ireland during the storm. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their third child (Chris Jackson/PA) The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their baby in April. Kensington Palace said William and Kate were delighted to confirm the month their third child is due to be born. Kate has been suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum a severe form of morning sickness but made a surprise appearance at a royal engagement on Monday, and is due to visit Norway and Sweden with the Duke on an official visit early in 2018. The new royal baby should arrive the month before the Cambridges daughter Princess Charlotte turns three. But Kate is believed to have gone beyond her due date with both Prince George and his sister. The Duchess gave birth to George and Charlotte at the private Lindo Wing at St Marys Hospital in Paddington, central London, and will be expected to do the same, unless she opts for a home birth. The new baby will be born fifth in line to the throne, pushing uncle Prince Harry into sixth 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 It is likely Kate has now had her 12 week scan and seen an ultrasound image of her baby. Soon after the news of the pregnancy was revealed in September, William revealed there was not much sleep being had at the main family home of Kensington Palace as Kate fought her severe morning sickness. We need Catherine to get over this first bit and then we can start celebrating, he said at the time. Its always a bit anxious to start with, but shes well. The official visit to Norway and Sweden was originally scheduled for next month, but has been delayed because of Kates sickness. 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 William is going ahead with a solo trip to Finland in November, being committed to the schedule in order to mark the centenary of the countrys independence in 2017. Depending on the exact date of the joint tour, Kate could be heavily pregnant when she makes the trip with William to Norway and Sweden in the depths of the Scandinavian winter. She made a surprise appearance at a royal engagement on Monday when she took a twirl with Paddington Bear as they danced on the platform of Paddington Station, watched by William and Harry, at a charity event. Expand Close (John Stillwell/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (John Stillwell/PA) With the Duchess believed to be just over 12 weeks pregnant, it is likely the baby is due around the end of April. The prince or princess could possibly arrive on William and Kates seventh wedding anniversary on April 29 or close to Princess Charlottes third birthday on May 2. It is thought Charlottes birth was overdue but if the Duke and Duchess third child is born early it could coincide with the 92nd birthday of its great-grandmother the Queen on April 21. A 20-year-old man was stabbed to death in the street after asking a drug dealer to move on, police said. Omid Saidy was killed outside Parsons Green Tube station, where 30 people were injured in a terror attack last month. Scotland Yard said the victim confronted a drug dealer and another male who was with him, before chasing the pair. 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 But he was was fatally stabbed when he caught up to them and Mr Saidy, from Fulham, was pronounced dead at the scene at 8.30pm on Monday. Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh said: A young man has tragically lost his life for simply asking a drug dealer to move on. I urge anyone who can assist our investigation to come forward without delay. The victims 20-year-old friend, who arrived on the scene on a moped, was also stabbed when he came to his aid, the Metropolitan Police said. Expand Close (Yui Mok/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (Yui Mok/PA) The bike collided with a parked vehicle at the scene, but Scotland Yard are not treating the incident as a moped-enabled crime. A 16-year-old white male, who was discharged from hospital after he was treated for his injuries, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. A second suspect, described as a black male dressed in dark clothing, fled down Harbled Road in the direction of Fulham Court. Appealing for witnesses, Mr McHugh added: It is imperative that we speak to anyone who was in the area of Parsons Green station between 7pm and 8pm who may have witnessed the murder or the actions of the suspects immediately following the incident. Expand Close (Yui Mok/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (Yui Mok/PA) In addition, I am keen to identify the black male who fled Parsons Green Lane immediately following the murder and am appealing for footage that members of the public may have recorded as events in the area took place. Meanwhile, a 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder after a 20-year-old man was stabbed to death in Forest Gate in east London on Sunday afternoon. Police said a postmortem found the victim, who has not been formally identified, died from a stab wound to the heart. The 16-year-old is due to appear at Barkingside youth court on Wednesday. All schools across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are to remain closed on Tuesday as the authorities deal with the aftermath of Storm Ophelia. The decision was taken to avoid any potential risk to life for children and staff after severe winds caused widespread damage to the electricity network, structural damage and uprooted trees. 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 Irish Education Minister Richard Bruton said over 350,000 businesses and homes are already without power, severe winds continue to cause damage and many roads are closed due to fallen trees. It is also the case that school authorities will in very many cases not have had an opportunity to check their buildings and confirm they are safe, have power and water, and that routes to the school are safely open, the minister added. Mr Bruton admitted that the decision to close schools will have a major impact on families and on the workforce. 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, however: This decision has been taken in the interests of safety for children and to provide clarity for everyone concerned. He said his department will issue guidance to schools in relation to making up lost days. In relation to third level education Mr Bruton said it was up to individual institutions to decide whether to open. 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 In Northern Ireland, the Education Department said schools have been advised to remain closed to avoid any potential risk to life for children, young people and staff. He added: I fully appreciate this decision will impact on the work of the schools and indeed on other businesses and services. 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 On Monday, parents were left scrambling to make last-minute childcare arrangements after the department failed to make any announcements about school closures in the region until late on Sunday night. Head teachers were left confused after hearing about the closures on social media at 10.30pm. Parents took to Twitter to vent their frustration at the lack of timely information. 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 @maryclarex1 Tweeted: Conflicting messages from individual schools planning to open. Just not good enough. @LockTrev said: What sort of advice is that to give? Wishy washy. Make a decision and get it out asap! @colliedoggie wrote: This tweet is causing considerable concern. Neither principals or chairs (me) have been informed. David Sterling, head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, admitted that safety advice and information could have been provided more quickly to the public in the region. 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 at Stormont prior to an emergency meeting with the permanent secretaries from all Government departments, Mr Sterling said: Perhaps in hindsight we may have done some things more quickly. But now we have given clear evidence and advice out to the community and we will continue to do that. All Further Education colleges across Northern Ireland are also to remain closed on Tuesday. US President Donald Trump will ask America's allies to put pressure on North Korea over its nuclear programme in a trip to the Asia-Pacific region. Mr Trump is to visit Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines in November, and will also stop in Hawaii. The White House said he will meet with South Korean president Moon Jae-in and "call on the international community to join together in maximising pressure on North Korea". In Japan, Mr Trump will meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and take part in a meeting with families of "Japanese citizens abducted by the North Korean regime". Mr Trump will also attend two trade summits. The devastation of the island of Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands following the passing of Hurricane Irma Is it right that people should be compelled to sell their homes to provide themselves with the civilised care they require in old age? Equally, is it right that our armed forces should face a 50m bill as a result of the massive and heroic help they gave to those suffering from the ravages of Hurricane Irma? The answer to both these situations should be a resounding 'No'. In the first case, a modest increase in National Insurance contributions could probably deal with it and thus allow old people to pass on their property assets to their children. But, in both cases, the remedy could almost certainly be resolved by taking a fresh look at Britain's generous overseas aid. At the moment, it is sacrosanct, because, having been 'ring-fenced' by David Cameron, it cannot be touched. Well, that could change if the necessary amending legislation were passed. The 'charity begins at home' syndrome is widely scoffed at, but why should our people suffer when their money is being spent abroad in such vast quantities? And, in other cases, I fear, handouts are not being monitored sufficiently rigorously to ensure they reach the right people; some of it, we are told, even reaching the grasping hands of warlords to buy arms. Alas, usually requests of this kind are received coldly by officials in Whitehall. But, I repeat: Why should our own people suffer when the overseas aid programme is apparently in such dire need of reform? n Is 'Spreadsheet Phil' Hammond the most bumbling, blundering Chancellor of the Exchequer in living memory, whose political antennae, if indeed he ever had any, have simply withered out of existence? Or is he, in fact, much smarter than most people have given him credit for and just pretending to be gormless? My feeling is that Hammond is, indeed, a lot smarter, acute and well-meaning than many people have suggested. Sometimes, you cannot help but get the impression that Hammond, who has been accused of near-sabotage over Brexit, is taunting the Prime Minister to take drastic action over his post. A rampant Hammond on the Tory backbenches could be real trouble for Theresa May. Is he really so innocent that he thought scoffing lobster in an upmarket Chelsea restaurant with his predecessor, George Osborne, would pass unnoticed? He must have known Osborne's comments about the Prime Minister have been little short of vicious, describing her as a 'dead woman walking' and saying he would like to see her chopped up in packets and put in the freezer. And then, in contrast to what the Prime Minister has been saying, Hammond described the EU as 'the enemy' - only to say a short time later he regretted his choice of words. All that sounds a bit flip-flop and careless for a man who holds the taxpayers' purse strings. Some top Tory politicians, including Lord Lawson, another former Chancellor, came close to describing Hammond as a Brexit saboteur. So, the Prime Minister faces a dilemma. Dumping your Chancellor is no minor matter, but how long can she tolerate this continued behaviour from a Chancellor who does not bother even to be subtle in his machinations? Normally, Hammond's speeches throw the Commons into a kind of corporate torpor. But he has certainly shaken people awake in the last few weeks. Whatever happens, I think we can safely promise Theresa May a bumpy, even tumultuous, parliamentary ride between now and Christmas. Is there any prospect of turning that insufferable bore Nick Clegg into a Trappist monk? He continues relentlessly to whinge about the Remainers' defeat in the referendum last year. He has the classic bad loser's 'we was robbed' attitude to the way the nation voted for Brexit. Clegg, a former Liberal Democrat leader and ex-Deputy Prime Minister, has been ejected from parliament by voters in Sheffield Hallam and the Remainers' case was roundly rejected at the referendum. If the Remainers believe they should have won, they should have conducted a better and far more convincing campaign. But for the likes of Nick Clegg, it is never too late to whinge. Not only has he been calling for a second referendum (bad enough), but urging that voters below a certain age should get two votes each (appalling). His latest book, How To Stop Brexit (And Make Britain Great Again) has been described as reading 'like a bad losers' handbook'. The trouble, I fear, is that all appeals to him to kindly shut up, will fall on deaf ears. What has the EU done to protect those of its own people - I speak of the Catalonians - who have faced violent posses of Spanish police armed with rubber bullets preventing them from entering polling stations in their independence-from-Spain referendum? I admit that the referendum is illegal, but that is no excuse for the brutal treatment of these people on the orders of the government in Madrid. Is the reason for this irresponsibility by the EU partly that Spain is probably the most compliant and least troublesome of its member states? Or is it because, if Catalonia did break away, it would encourage the Basques and other communities elsewhere in the EU to follow suit? EU grandees have already expressed support for the Spanish government in this crisis, as have other national leaders in Europe. What an utter disgrace. Shutterstock.com So, you're having an emotional episode and are stressed out of your mind. What does your spouse tell you? "Go outside for some fresh air and take a walk, you will feel better." First of all, they just didn't say that, and how childish, right? Nevertheless, they were onto something. While walking in the crisp air that night, the moon was hovering above the tree lines and the stillness took over. The heart rate dropped and the mind became a place of tranquility. This is more than an exclusive account. People are finding that nature can do miracles and they sure can use it. We are popping pills to cope with depression and stress at alarming rates in America. The National Center for Health Statistics found that "13 percent of people 12 and older said they took an antidepressant in the last month. That number is up from 11 percent in 2005-2008." Between 19881994 and 20052008 there was a 400 percent increase of people relying on medication for their mental health. Consider the following ways nature can turn the tide on your stress. It reduces anger. It helps lower blood pressure. It calms the mind. It makes you happy. It boosts the immune system damaged by stress. 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. A study at the University of Illinois found that people have a stronger connection with others and became more supportive of neighbors when communities in the inner city had more green space in a mentally fatiguing environment. "It seemed valuable to take a look at whether green areas in Chicago would make a difference in levels of mental fatigue," researcher Frances Kuo found. The study also observed crime lessened, strife was less and there was a decrease in domestic violence.Just a 30-minute walk can lower your blood pressure. Visits to outdoor green spaces of 20-30 minutes could reduce the prevalence of depression by up to 7 percent and high blood pressure by 9 percent. Walking to a park and adding more green space to your life can reduce the prevalence of apprehension. A study led by The University of Queensland (UQ) and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions (CEED) suggested people need to be in nature if they want to combat the stresses of life. "We've known for a long time that visiting parks is good for our health , but we are now beginning to establish exactly how much time we need to spend in parks to gain these benefits," researcher Dr. Danielle Shanahan said.Author C.S. Lewis understood that nature offers a natural calming effect from the craziness of life. "Our own noise blots out the sounds and silences of the outdoor world; and talking leads almost inevitably to smoking, and then farewell to nature as fare as one of our senses is concerned. A natural environment will allow you to refocus and go to a place that is more serene. When we can center the mind, we become calmer. Nature is one of the places that immediately can bring us to a better and to a deeper sense of peace. Start to breathe slowly, in through your nose and out through your mouth during your visit to the park or when you're walking outside. When you return home, you may notice the mind and the body have grown more restful. If you can't get outside, look out a window to observe nature from there to enjoy the benefits.When in nature you will stop your inward brooding and discover there is a bigger world out there. There is a beauty that surrounds you that has been taken for granted. Maybe you dont feel enough appreciation from your spouse or feel overlooked. Nature can put things back into perspective. Observe the birds in the morning and how they sing and are content. They seem to be happy and the natural world grants us the same opportunity. Gregory Bratman, of Stanford University, did a study before and after a scenic walk, the participants assessed their emotional state and they found those who walked in nature experienced less anxiety. When participants spent 4 days in a natural setting, without technology, the surrounding natural setting allowed them to bring a "Wide range of cognitive resources to bear when asked to engage in a task that requires creativity and complex convergent problem-solving." Give Mother Nature a chance to make you sing again.Trees can help improve the immune system impacted by stress. People who suffer from chronic or long-term stress can experience more colds and other illnesses. The weakened immune system caused by stress can also lead to cancer and heart disease. Exposure to forests helps us fight diseases because they have antibacterial and antifungal qualities that are emitted into the air. "When people breathe in these chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells," Forest Therapy of the Americas reported. If you can't make it to a forest, a local park in the community will also do.Don't be afraid to get out there plant, go camping, take a walk or a hike to access more green space. Take a break from electronics and check out a local park or lake when there is little activity and allow yourself to become still. Use this as a form of meditation to fight stress. Finally, really examine what can be taken off of your plate so you can avoid any overwhelming feelings of stress. We work hard to shield themselves from nature, and its elements. Embracing it from time-to-time is necessary for our overall well-being. Bangladesh opposition leader Khaleda Zia waves to supporters outside a special court in Dhaka after pleading not guilty to two graft charges, Dec. 1, 2016. The European Union urged Bangladesh on Monday to form an independent commission to hold the next general election, scheduled for late 2018 or early 2019, in a free, fair, participatory way. The EU, in its annual report on human rights and democracy, chastised the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for allowing elections where the opposition had limited or no influence on the political process. The report drew rebuke from a government official, while an opposition party leader said it was an accurate reflection on the nation. We reject this report. The election commission of this country is independent, Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal told BenarNews, describing the EU statements as fabricated. Not so, said Mahbubur Rahman, a member of opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Partys (BNP) steering committee. The BNP and faith-based Jamaat-e-Islami were singled out in the report as being targeted by Hasinas Awami League party. The EU report reflects the real situation of this country. I agree with this report, he told BenarNews. Free and fair elections are very important for the democratic process, and a neutral and non-partisan election commission is the pre-condition to ensure free and fair elections, Mahbubur said. The EU report pointed out that Jamaat had seen its leaders executed for crimes linked to the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan and its younger leaders arrested in government crackdowns. The statement follows a global intelligence agencys report in May 2016 that Bangladesh is descending toward single-party authoritarianism as the ruling Awami League pushes charges against the opposition to solidify its own power. The Stratfor report said that Hasina has employed tactics to marginalize BNP leader Khaleda Zia, a former prime minister. The Supreme Court in 2013 banned Jamaat from participating in elections, claiming its charter was illegal. While not a major force in the parliamentary election, its organizational abilities helped BNP attract voters, according to Stratfor. BNP boycotted the 2014 elections, leading Hasinas coalition to control 280 of parliaments 300 seats. Hasina formed the International War Crimes Tribunal that has resulted in the executions of at least six opposition leaders for alleged crimes committed during the 1971 war. The government has also filed charges against Zia and other BNP leaders, along with media members, Stratfor reported. Opposition arrests Last week, a court in Comilla district issued an arrest warrant for Zia, who has been in London since July for medical reasons, over a two-year-old arson case. The warrant followed a two-week roundup of almost three dozen members of the Jamaat party. Zia and dozens of others were charged over an arson attack that killed eight people in February 2015 when a man threw a Molotov cocktail at a bus. The opposition leader also faces a sedition charge after she issued a comment questioning the official report about the number of Bangladeshis killed during the 1971 war. There was controversy over the number of the martyrs killed in the war of liberation; different books and documents refer to various figures, Zia was quoted as saying. Additionally, 33 Jamaat leaders were arrested, including the acting leader, Mokbul Ahmad, in a series of raids in six districts across the country. A Dhaka-based human rights group said more than 320 people, including opposition party members, suspected criminals and militants, have been unlawfully detained or disappeared since Hasina took power after the 2009 election. Meanwhile, professor Nizam Uddin Ahmed, a political commentator and researcher, said Bangladesh faces political challenges. As the EU always produces reports based on authentic data and facts, we can take this report as authentic, he told BenarNews. But there are some challenges to form a neutral and nonpartisan election commission. As political divisions and intolerance spiked in Bangladesh, he said, it has become difficult to form a neutral panel. It is true that an independent and neutral election commission is the pre-condition for democracy, he said. Rohingya refugees gather at a dam along the Naf River near Anjuman Para in Ukhia, Bangladesh, Oct. 16, 2017. As many as 15,000 new Rohingya refugees entered Bangladesh since Sunday, U.N. officials said Tuesday, as new satellite imagery showed tens of thousands of structures, primarily homes inhabited by ethnic Rohingya Muslims had been burned in Myanmars Rakhine state. But authorities in southeastern Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of the worlds fastest-growing refugee crisis, said many more new arrivals about 40,000 refugees had crossed over from Myanmar within the past 72 hours. An analysis of newly released satellite images revealed 288 Rohingya villages were targeted in arson attacks in Rakhine since Aug. 25, and 66 of those villages were burned after Myanmar officials claimed the militarys clearance operations in Rakhine state had ceased in early September, Human Rights Watch reported Tuesday. Some newcomers said they had escaped Rakhine amid a critical food shortage, which, they alleged, was forced upon their minority-Muslim community by the military. We had been almost starving, along with our kids, for a long time, refugee Md Islam, 45, a resident of a village in Buthidaung township told BenarNews. [W]e were almost confined in our houses for days after days. Panic gripped our life. How long could we survive in such a situation? His family ran out of food and all the local markets had been shut since the Myanmar army and Rakhine Buddhist militia targeted his village in attacks, he said. Inhuman torture is going on in Rakhine, fellow refugee Abdur Rashid told BenarNews, adding that the Myanmar army has been creating an artificial food crisis to force Rohingya to flee. Another Rohingya from Buthidaung, Md Alam, told BenarNews he and others had trekked through hills, fields and marshes for the past 10 days to come to Bangladesh for survival. Stranded On Tuesday, international aid agencies sharply revised upward their overall estimate for the number of Rohingya refugees who have fled to southeastern Bangladesh amid a cycle of violence in Rakhine that broke out on Aug. 25. About 582,000 Rohingya refugees have crossed into Bangladesh since late August, the U.N. and international humanitarian agencies reported. Around 40,000 Rohingyas have entered Bangladesh through [border points] of Ukhia in three days, Md Ali Hossain, the deputy commissioner of Coxs Bazar district, which encompasses the sub-district of Ukhia, told BenarNews. Speaking in Geneva, U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) spokesman Andrej Mahecic said the latest arrivals, numbering 10,000 to 15,000 people were stranded near Anjuman Para village in Ukhia. Many told relief workers they had walked for a week to reach Bangladesh after their villages were set on fire. As of this morning they are still squatting in the paddy fields of Anjuman Para village in Bangladesh, he said. They are waiting for permission to move away from the border, where the sound of gunfire continues to be heard every night from the Myanmar side. Malaysia calls for safe zone Also on Tuesday, Malaysias deputy prime minister told Malaysian media the government would propose that the U.N. Security Council adopt a resolution to create a U.N.-monitored safe zone so hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees could return to Myanmar unharmed. As he wrapped up a two-day visit to Bangladesh during which he toured a refugee camp in the southeast, Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Ahmad Hamidi announced some Malaysian government proposals aimed at alleviating the refugee crisis stemming from violence across the border in Rakhine state. These include proposing to the United Nations for the region to be made a security zone , Malaysias state news agency Bernama quoted Zahid as saying. Maybe U.N. Security Council members can raise this matter for it to be made a resolution so that finally when the Rohingya return, there is a U.N. monitoring team there in place, he said. Zahids statement followed similar comments made by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during a speech before the United Nations General Assembly in September, when she called for creating U.N.-supervised safe zones inside Myanmar to protect Rohingya Muslims from further violence. Malaysia, which has been cleared by Bangladesh to build a 100-bed field hospital in Coxs Bazar to treat sick or injured Rohingya refugees, also will assign a special attache to its embassy in Dhaka to help coordinate humanitarian assistance to the refugees, Zahid said. Malaysia believes that the Rohingya humanitarian crisis needs to be settled through regional cooperation, especially among ASEAN countries, he added, according to Malaysias Star newspaper. Although Myanmar is an ASEAN member, we want to make it clear that the Rohingya issue transcends geographical borders, he said, adding, We have no wish to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, but it should be understood that the Rohingya issue is a regional problem. Efforts must be scaled up Bangladesh and humanitarian agencies have been struggling to accommodate and provide basic services for the hundreds of thousands of Rohingya who fled northern Rakhine during a military crackdown following deadly attacks on 30 police posts and an army facility on Aug. 25. The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), a militant group, claimed responsibility for the attacks as well as for deadly smaller-scale raids on three border guard stations in October 2016. Myanmar authorities have rejected widespread international criticism that their security forces targeted Rohingya civilians in atrocities such as killings, rapes and the burning of villages. They have blamed ARSA insurgents for the violence. On Monday, the European Union announced it was reviewing military cooperation with Myanmar, as the bloc called on Myanmar to bring to justice the perpetrators of crimes against the Rohingya. Meanwhile, three top U.N. officials, including the heads of UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration, issued a joint statement urging the international community to raise U.S. $434 million quickly to deal with the major humanitarian emergency unfolding in southeast Bangladesh. The efforts must be scaled up and expanded to receive and protect refugees and ensure they are provided with basic shelter and acceptable living conditions, the officials said Monday. Radio Free Asia, a sister entity of BenarNews, contributed to this report. Troops salute the Philippine flag as President Rodrigo Duterte prepares to deliver remarks in the southern city of Marawi, Oct. 17, 2017. President Rodrigo Duterte declared Marawi city liberated on Tuesday, a day after troops killed Isnilon Hapilon, the Filipino leader of the Islamic State (IS) branch in Southeast Asia. But intermittent explosions reverberated in the background amid somber cheers of joy in the southern Philippine city, as about 30 militant stragglers led by Malaysian Mahmud Ahmad were trying to claw their way out, according to military officials. Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi city liberated from terrorist influence that marks the beginning of rehabilitation, Duterte said in his brief message as he paid a special visit to troops in the war-torn city, while top military and defense officials surrounded him on the stage. He promised his beloved soldiers, many of whom had returned to the frontline despite being wounded earlier, that their sacrifices would not be overlooked. Military spokesman Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla said operations in Marawi were approaching their end, but he cautioned troops to not let their guard down. Padilla said the liberation of Marawi does not signal the end of the hostilities nor the end of the fighting, noting that Mahmud was backed by up several foreign fighters who were still holding about 20 hostages, including women and children. As we speak, our troops have remained in the battle area continuing to pursue the armed elements and seeking to rescue the remaining hostages in about two hectares of space that remains [as] the battle area, Padilla said, adding that up to 80 structures had yet to be cleared. Padilla said Dutertes declaration would give way to reconstruction even as he emphasized that troops would working harder to clear the area and recover the remaining hostages. Dr. Mahmud remains one of our high-value targets in the operations still being conducted, he said. We are ready Once a professor at the University of Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, Mahmud, 39, is the alleged financier of the militants that took over the once-scenic city of 200,000 people. He had trained at al-Qaeda camps in Afghanistan in the 1990s while studying at Islamabad Islamic University. In Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, Malaysian Police Chief Mohamad Fuzi Harun said authorities in the eastern state of Sabah were on alert to prevent Mahmud or any of his supporters from crossing over by sea from the nearby southern Philippines. At the moment, from the information we received, there are five Malaysians in Marawi and the southern part of the Philippines, he told reporters. We are always on guard and if they do come back, we are ready. In Jakarta, a deputy official of Indonesias national counterterrorist agency (BNPT) said authorities in Indonesian Borneo and Indonesian islands off the southern Philippines were also closely monitoring borders in the region. [W]e are keeping cautious, especially in the border areas such as North Maluku, North Sulawesi and South East Kalimantan [provinces], BNPT Inspector-General Arief Darmawan told BenarNews on Tuesday. Some of the militants still fighting in Marawi were believed to be Indonesians, Arief said without being more specific. Most of them are people who have been living in Marawi for a long time. But we dont have details on their identities, he said. He predicted there are some Indonesians join with the terror group in Marawi. Mahmud not adept at fighting Padilla belittled Mahmuds battle capability, calling him an academic not adept in fighting like Hapilon, the overall leader of IS in the region, and Omarkhayam Maute, leader of the Maute gang. Both men were killed Monday as troops advanced into rebel-held areas, Philippine officials said. His ability to lead the fight is not there, Padilla said of Mahmud, noting that foreigners, Indonesians and Malaysians, who were still with him were part of the core group at the forefront of the fight. Hapilon, a leader of the local extremist group Abu Sayyaf, had earned a reputation for brutality, including kidnappings and beheadings. In 2001, he organized the kidnapping of 20 hostages, including three Americans, from a southern Philippine beach resort. Two of the Americans were later killed, an act that led the FBI to put Hapilon on its most-wanted list and offer $5 million for his capture. The third was freed after a year in captivity in the jungles. Last year, Hapilon emerged as the regional emir of IS. The Marawi fighting began on May 23 when the military moved to arrest Hapilon. But they were surprised by a huge rebel force, including local militants led by brothers Abdullah and Omarkhayam Maute. Abdullah was killed earlier in the battle. The United States, along with Australia, provided vital intelligence back up to Filipino forces. We congratulate our partners in the Armed Forces of the Philippines for their reported success in killing two of the leaders behind the months-long clash in Marawi: Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute, Molly Koscina, a spokeswoman for the U.S. embassy in Manila, said Tuesday in a statement. Soldiers walk in the southern Philippine city of Marawi, Oct. 17, 2017. [Jeoffrey Maitem/BenarNews] Police matter Meanwhile, Philippine military chief Gen. Eduardo Ano said the remaining enemy force could no longer be considered a serious threat but a law-enforcement matter. What remains now is mopping up operations against Maute-ISIS stragglers in a small area, Ano said, using another acronym for IS. We can now begin the next phase, which is damage assessment, which is part already of rehabilitation and reconstruction. He said the Maute brothers and Hapilon were considered as the centers of gravity for the local IS fighters. When we say center, its their strength that pulls the whole organization and their supporters. Now they are gone, the impact is a big debacle in the ISIS state that they are trying to put up in Mindanao, Ano said. They cannot find any leader immediately. In fact, what will happen, since they are leaderless, a lot of their followers will abandon their movement. We in the military will not relax and just seat. It will even inspire the armed forces and the police and other law-enforcement agencies to go after the remaining militants and finish them, he added. The toll has been staggering in the battle that has lasted nearly five months, with 822 militants and 164 soldiers slain. At least 47 civilians also have been killed. Felipe Villamor in Manila, N. Nantha in Kuala Lumpur and Tia Asmara in Jakarta contributed to this report. A Rohingya refugee carries his father as they enter Bangladesh at Anjuman Para, near the Myanmar border, Oct. 16. [Tushar Tohin/BenarNews] A health service volunteer explains services for Rohingya refugees to William Lacy Swing, chief of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), during the U.N. officials visit to the Kutupalong refugee camp in Ukhia, Coxs Bazar, Oct. 16, 2017. [Tushar Tohin/BenarNews] Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Ahmad Hamidi chats with Rohingya children during a visit to Coxs Bazar, Oct. 16, 2017. [Courtesy of the Malaysian deputy prime ministers office] Rohingya women and children wait to pick up relief supplies at the Nayapara refugee camp in Teknaf, Coxs Bazar, Oct. 13, 2017. [Abdur Rahman/BenarNews] A crowd of Rohingya refugees gathers along a dam by the Naf River near Anjuman Para in Ukhia, Bangladesh, Oct. 16, 2017. [Tushar Tohin/BenarNews] About 600,000 Rohingya refugees have fled to southeastern Bangladesh within the past seven weeks while escaping a surge of violence in Myanmars Rakhine state, the United Nations and international relief agencies said Monday in releasing sharply revised estimates. U.N. officials have called the humanitarian crisis the worlds fastest-developing refugee emergency and have described the violence pushing members of Rakhine Muslim minority to seek shelter in neighboring Bangladesh a textbook example of ethnic cleansing criticism that Myanmars government has strongly denied. With the 582,000 new refugee arrivals since Aug. 25, nearly one million Rohingya refugees are now concentrated in the southeast corner of Bangladesh. Almost 60 percent of Rakhines Muslim population has crossed into the neighboring country as a result of the violence. This week, Malaysias deputy prime minister and the director general of IOM, the U.N.s international migration agency, visited southeastern Bangladesh to get a close-up look at the crisis as thousands of more refugees came across the border. For Immediate Release, October 17, 2017 Contact: Matt Reed, High Country Conservation Advocates, (970) 349-7104, matt@hccacb.org Allison Melton, Center for Biological Diversity, (970) 309-2008, amelton@biologicaldiversity.org Shannon Hughes, WildEarth Guardians, (630) 699-7165, shughes@wildearthguardians.org Colorado Gov. Hickenlooper's Climate Plan Ignores Arch Coal's Mine Pollution DENVER Gov. John Hickenloopers plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions ignores Colorados number-one source of dangerous methane pollution the West Elk coal mine near Paonia, Colo. The governors Colorado Climate Plan is open for public comment through Nov. 3. The West Elk Mine, owned by the St. Louis-based Arch Coal, spewed more methane into the air from 2011 through 2016 than any other man-made source in Colorado, according to data from the Environmental Protection Agency. In 2016 West Elk was the states worst source of methane pollution. Hickenloopers so-called climate plan is a gift to Arch Coal that lets this huge corporate polluter off the hook, said Allison Melton, an attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity. The governor needs to put the health of Colorado residents above special interests and ensure that West Elks methane emissions are captured. Methane at the West Elk Mine is vented directly into the atmosphere. Mines can reduce methane pollution significantly by flaring the gas, putting it in a pipeline for household use or using it to generate power. But Arch Coal, which operates the mine on public land, has repeatedly refused to implement these measures. The draft Colorado Climate Plan, released to the public in early October, identifies financial subsidies to encourage methane capture or flaring, but fails to recommend any limits on coal mine pollution. Its long past time for state and federal regulators to stop giving dirty coal mines a free pass to pollute, said Matt Reed of High Country Conservation Advocates. If the Colorado Climate Plan is going to be successful, it has to set forth the steps that will halt our home-grown climate pollution, not merely mildly mitigate them at best. In 2016 West Elk Mine spewed more than 16,000 tons of the heat-trapping methane gas into Colorado air the equivalent more than 400,000 tons of carbon dioxide. Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is a greenhouse gas on steroids, trapping about 87 times more heat than carbon dioxide. The West Elk Mine has been treating our air and our climate as a sewer for far too long, said Shannon Hughes of WildEarth Guardians. Its time for that to end. Colorado has adopted rules to control methane pollution from oil and gas operations, but has done nothing to regulate coal mine emissions. Hickenloopers administration has rejected recommendations from its own inspectors to require coal mines to file permits disclosing other pollutants emitted when methane is vented. In September the Trump administration proposed approval of an expansion of the West Elk Mine into 1,700 acres of roadless wildlands in the Gunnison National Forest. If approved, the expansion would include exploratory drilling and miles of road construction to mine 17 million tons of coal within pristine forest that provides habitat for black bear, elk, beaver and lynx. US Department of the Interior Zinke! US Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is under investigation for his travel arrangementsagain. Earlier this week, the departments Office of the Inspector General opened an investigation into privately chartered flights the secretary took, costing taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars. This isnt the first time Zinke has exercised (alleged) ethical lapses when it comes to air travel. As the New York Times reported in the run-up to his confirmation, he improperly billed the government for travel to his home in Montana when he was a midlevel SEAL Team 6 officer in the late 1990s. He was punished for abusing his travel expenses, and according to the NYT: His former commanding officer in SEAL Team 6, retired Vice Adm. Albert M. Calland III, who had never before discussed the matter publicly, said in an interview that it was an easy decision to hit Mr. Zinke hard over the travel claims, which came at a time when he was supposed to help prevent such abuses. I gave him a fitness report that I thought would not allow him to get to captain, and that seemed, in that regard, to work O.K., Admiral Calland said. Even though Mr. Zinke served in a succession of No. 2 jobs in special operations after that, he never got command, the admiral said. Another retired vice admiral, Sean A. Pybus, who was Mr. Zinkes boss after he left SEAL Team 6, said that Admiral Callands decision to cite Mr. Zinke for lapses in judgment in failing to set a proper example was a red flag for boards screening officers for coveted command jobs. One of the secretarys recent privately-chartered flights, from Las Vegas to Montana aboard a private plane owned by oil and gas executives, cost $12,375. A commercial flight would have been about $300. Republican leaders of the House Natural Resources Committee, including Utah Rep. Rob Bishop, are even starting to ask questions, and have asked the Interior Department for information related to privately-chartered flights of Zinke and President Obamas two previous secretaries. This year, US Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt has also taken privately chartered flights, costing a total of $58,000. Oil and Gas As Reuters reported, oil prices were dropping this week due to a global glut of supplies. And theres a lot of new movement among oil companies in New Mexico. Oryx Midstream Services plans to build a 220-mile long crude oil pipeline from Carlsbad to Midland, Texas and Exxon-Mobil has gained access to 22,000 more acres in the Permian Basin. Earlier this year, the companywhose former CEO Rex Tillerson is now US Secretary of Stateannounced plans to invest $5.6 billion in the Permian, which includes Texas and New Mexico. But some energy executives remain unhappy with business in the state, according to a story in the Albuquerque Journal last week: Government regulations are also a challenge, especially red tape in approving drilling and right-of-way permits on federal lands. Thats particularly true in New Mexico, which has the most federally leased land in the US for oil and gas production, Flynn said. Conservative estimates say New Mexico loses about $2.3 million in revenue per day because of those delays, [New Mexico Oil and Gas Association Executive Director] Ryan Flynn said. Prior to his job at the trade group, Flynn was the New Mexico Environment Department Secretary. Speaking of Flynn, the Santa Fe New Mexican recently quoted the former secretary as supporting the states newly proposed science standards, which omit references of human-caused climate change, promote the fossil fuel industry and diminish language around evolution. The paper, like the Journal, failed to mention Flynns cabinet position, a detail that helps contextualize the administrations actions and its close ties, across agencies, with the energy industry. In other oil and gas news, Sean Spicer has been doing more than hobnobbing with Hollywood stars at the Emmys since being fired as White House press secretary. He was the keynote speaker at the Marcellus Shale Coalitions annual conference. According to DeSmogBlog, Spicer started by telling the crowd of shale industry executives: Before I begin, the one message that I want to make sure that you take away from my comments today, is that while I may not be in the White House anymore, I remain unbelievably confident that this industry has a huge friend in the Oval Office and throughout this administration. But wait! Theres more oil and gas news. A study published this week in Nature Energy, a peer-reviewed journal, shows that half of all new oil production in the United States would be unprofitable if it werent for federal subsidies. In the Permian Basin, 40 percent of development wouldnt be economically viable. Last, even though this is technically Arizona news, New Mexicans will benefit from the research, too. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) just awarded the Climate Assessment for the Southwest program at the University of Arizona $3.75 million to continue its research on climate change in the southwestern US, including New Mexico, and northern Mexico. Visit the programs website at climas.arizona.edu. Public Meetings and Comment Periods To submit public comment about proposed statewide science standards to the N.M. Public Education Department send an email to rule. feedback@state. nm. us, or fax to (505) 827-6681 before 5pm on Oct. 16. The agency will hold a public hearing regarding the standards on Oct. 16, from 9am to noon, at Mabry Hall, Jerry Apodaca Education Building, 300 Don Gaspar Avenue, Santa Fe. Until Oct. 20, the US Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on opening 26 parcels in northern New Mexico for oil and gas leasing. The draft environmental assessment is online here. Email comments to NMleasesalecomments@blm. gov with March 2018 Lease Parcels in the subject line or send them to Ross Klein, BLM New Mexico State Office, 301 Dinosaur Trail, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 87502. The annual Africa Week kicked off yesterday, Monday 16 October, on the margins of the UN General Assembly Debate on Africa's development to showcase the continent's continuous advancements and achievements with respect to social, economic, political and environmental development. bowie15 via 123RF The theme for Africa Week this year is, Supporting an Integrated, Prosperous, People-Centred and Peaceful Africa: Towards the Implementation of Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Africa Week will serve as an opportunity for dedicated substantive discussions on issues that are in line with the implementation set out in both agendas. According to the organising team, the choice of the theme is centred on a shared understanding that a prosperous African continent is one where the different national economies are seamlessly integrated and the economic and social participation of all citizens is guaranteed and promoted. Furthermore, it is expected that presentations and discussions during the week would reinforce the need for governments and partners to work closely to ensure a fertile environment for entrepreneurship to take root and flourish, and to impede and reverse illicit financial flows, as means to stimulate economic growth and with a focus on peace and security. A prosperous African continent is one where the different national economies are seamlessly integrated and the economic and social participation of all citizens is guaranteed. While Africa has defined a unique long-term vision Agenda 2063 - it remains strongly aligned to the global 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development. In addition, the two agendas are mutually reinforcing as they focus attention on inclusive and sustainable structural transformation across all dimensions of sustainability including governance, peace and security and sustainable development. By holding this annual event on the margins of the General Assembly Debate on Africas development, the discussions focus on concrete issues bringing awareness on the new and emerging challenges confronting the continent. It also serves as a strategic opportunity to mobilise international support at the global level for Africas development priorities and its inclusive transformative agenda. Participating in the dynamic set of activities this week are international development partners, the private sector, and civil society, which each add significant value in support of Africas aspirations. The top 20 shortlisted finalists for the AfricaCom 2017 Awards have been announced. The AfricaCom Awards celebrate the achievements of the best companies, solutions, products, and personalities improving connectivity and driving Africa through the fourth industrial revolution. The 2017 event marks the 20th anniversary of AfricaCom and the 10th year of the Awards. The inclusion of several new categories in this years awards lineup, also speaks to the continual progress being affected on the African continent through the deployment of digital solutions, generating some truly innovative thinking and services, says Tom Cuthell, portfolio director for KNect365, organiser of AfricaCom. Its an exciting time for technology across the world, but none more than across Africa, with many of these shortlisted contenders, leading global development in their field. Categories and shortlisted finalists: Vodafone Wholesale, Ghana - Fibre connectivity to the West African sub-region Mauritius Telecom - Accelerated FTTH Deployment Liquid Telecom - Pan-African VSAT Service MTN Nigeria - The worlds 1st CloudAIR GU@5MHz launched in MTN Nigeria Huawei Technologies - Build the Best Network in Africa Kenya P3 Score Improvement Ericsson and Safaricom - Next Generation NOC CommProve - QuantiQa NG Mahindra Comviva and Airtel Africa - iPACS Unified CRM and Convergent Billing Solution Mahindra Comviva and Orange Cameroon - VAS Retailing Solution Liquid Telecom - Listen, Measure, Understand and Improve Orange - Business Care MTN and Huawei Technologies - Customer Experience Management (CEM) Parallel Wireless - HetHet Gateway enabling ease of deployment and maintenance for ANY G cellular network ECI - LightSEC for Critical Infrastructures Ericsson - Ericsson HDS (Hyperscale Datacenter System) Huawei Technologies - ICT Transformation Through Huaweis NFV Solution WTL - Building wholesale networks in Rural Africa Orange - Sandji-Senekale Orange - Cycle M BrightWave Technologies - Telecommunication (metro broadband network) UNHCR Smart WiFi Kiosk COCA COLA/EKOCENTER - EKOCENTER RippleNami, Inc. rWAVES Ecocarrier Inc. - MRESENCE - Presence in Mixed Reality and its application in cloud-based managed services for TeleMRedicine, CollaboMRation, Alepo Technologies - BSS Transformation Parallel Wireless - Making LTE deployments as easy and as cost-effective as Wi-Fi Telkom and Huawei Technologies - Telkom (CSB) Consumer and Small Business powered by Huawei LTE Solution Orange - #Debloques Orange - TV Everywhere Telkom and Huawei Technologies - Telkom LIT_ Service UROS Ltd. - Goodspeed Roaming App ZOL (Zimbabwe) part of The Liquid Telecom Group - Fibroniks-on-the-Go Truecaller Truecaller Orange - Rural Electrification Telkom and Huawei Technologies - Telkom LIT_ Orange - USSD Store BWTECH International Ltd NetChart Polystar Kalix Orange - Orange Data Management Program PCCW Global - GlobalView Fintech Innovation Award Mahindra Comviva and Econet Wireless - EcoCash Diaspora BIMA (Milvik) Microinsurance FAMOCO - FAMOCO help Orange Cameroon to improve the efficiency of their distribution network. Panamax Inc. MobiFin Tanzania Vodacom and Huawei Technologies - Tanzania Vodacom Lipa kwa M-Pesa PCCW Global - Tap&Go IoT Product/Service of the Year eWaterpay - eWater tap Orange - Smart metering SqwidNet - IoT Network and Ecosystem Roll-out Huawei Technologies Huawei PLC-IoT for achieving Intelligent Utility Grid Huawei Technologies - Huawei IOT Solution for Insurance Innovation MTN South Africa together with Ericsson MEA - First CAT-M1 test in Africa for Internet of Things CXO of the Year this is a new award and is open to members of the public to vote. It recognises outstanding contribution in the field of telecoms and ICT within an African listed company or an organisation with operations in at least one African country. The shortlisted nominees will be announced on Monday, 23 October 2017. All winners will be announced at the AfricaCom Awards, which this year takes place on 8 November 2017, at the Waterfront LookOut, Granger Bay, Cape Town. The 2017 AfricaCom Awards are sponsored by PCCW Global (a founding sponsor), Intelsat and Orange. I know this is going to sound like a self-indulgent house ad but I must say that, since I have been working here at The Citizen, I have come to respect the newspaper's independence and the fact that it really has not been captured by anyone politically. Nor is there, that I have seen, any instruction that any particular company is out of bounds because it advertises with us. So, this week for example, we ran a large ad for the Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA) and then the next day a prominent story revealing that the authoritys registrar, Japh Chuwe, had been given an eye-watering 93% increase in his basic salary. This came at a time when the authoritys income was down 40% because municipalities are not issuing nearly as many traffic fines as they used to. The negative story about the boss man notwithstanding, I must say I have chuckled at the agencys latest advertising campaign, which has been put together by Blueprint. The print ones are put together to look like an ad for a sangoma, promising everything from enlargements to better sleep, and, in the case of the one shown here, which ran earlier in the week, No more bedwetting. It was so realistic that some people were taken in, including one or two not a million kilometres away from our newsroom The punchline, though, ties it all together: For real solutions, from real experts, on traffic fines, come to RTIA. There was a bit of a row about the radio version of the ad, which drew criticism from some for allegedly mocking traditional beliefs and culture. The RTIA responded that the ads intention was only to mock the fake practitioners who abuse traditional beliefs and culture. I agree with that. Sometimes people will argue about, and criticise, almost anything. The RTIA ad certainly stands out, makes its point in a funny way and has started people talking, which means it has generated awareness. That is good marketing, so RTIA and Blueprint get an Orchid this week. I know this sounds almost contradictory, having already noted that some people will argue about anything and I know I risk being accused of ignoring this by those who believe the fuss about the overseas Dove soap ad is a storm in a wash basin. But, without getting into the nitty-gritty, I will award Dove an Onion for not anticipating a possible outcry. It is true that many who jumped angrily onto social media to denounce the racism of the company had not bothered looking at the whole video. In it, a number of women were seen removing a top and then turning into someone else. The first shot was of a black woman removing her top and turning into a white woman. That generated the outrage despite the fact that when, in turn, the white woman removed her top, she turned into someone else, an Asian woman. The three-second clip was aired on Facebook as a teaser for a full 30-second TV commercial. The Nigerian model in the ad said people had jumped to conclusions and had made her the unwitting poster child for racism in advertising. There are two lessons to be learned here. First, be very, very, very careful when your brand deals with issues of race which may be misinterpreted. I cant understand how Dove didnt put this through a confidential process of vetting, which may have turned up the eventual objection. The second is: beware how you use social media. Very few brands in love with Facebook, particularly, realise that placing your material on the social media platform is playing marketing Russian roulette. It could seriously backfire, because you have no control over the medium. Dove knows that now. A social worker from one of the three Cullinan care facilities responsible for the deaths of at least 25 mental health patients says their lives could have been saved if senior officials had known conditions on the ground. But evidence from an exclusive Bhekisisa interview with former Gauteng health MEC Qedani Mahlangu shows she visited the organisations in August 2016. On Monday, Cullinan Care and Rehabilitation Centre social worker Daphne Ndhlovu testified as part of an ongoing arbitration process regarding the Life Esidimeni tragedy in which at least 141 mental health patients lost their lives. Ndhlovu admitted that standard procedures were not followed when the centre admitted 163 public sector patients from private healthcare provider Life Esidimeni after the Gauteng health department terminated its contract with the hospital group in March 2016 to save money. Replying in response to questions from arbitration leader and retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke, Ndhlovu says that the centre outside of Pretoria could only accommodate 150 patients but ended up with almost double that number after Life Esidimeni patients were transferred there. To make room for the influx of new patients, the Cullinan Care and Rehabilitation Centre moved some patients to two nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) operating on its grounds, the Anchor Centre and Siyabadinga. Siyabadinga, which received 73 patients from Cullinan, was never licensed to provide care to mental health patients, found a February health ombudsman report. At least 25 mental health patients housed at one of the three organisations later died, revealed the report. Now, Ndhlovu says deaths could have been avoided if senior Gauteng health officials had visited the centre. "We were given instructions from above. The people that werent even around at institutional level to see the problems, she said before lawyers and families as arbitration entered its second week. But in an exclusive October 2016 interview with Bhekisisa, Mahlangu admitted she visited all three facilities in August 2016. Mahlangu explained: During the elections, we visited [Cullinan Care and Rehabilitation Centre], and this Siyabadinga and Anchor. We observed there was no working relationship between the two NGOs. My exact words were, We are all looking after the patients on behalf of the state, you have got to use the common kitty that is provided to you Mahlangu, who is not currently on the list of witnesses set to testify at the arbitration, maintained she inspected facilities such as a shared kitchen on the property in interviews with health ombudsman Malegapuru Makgoba as evidenced in his report. Ndhlovu also confirmed suspicions of Life Esidimeni families that many patients were transferred to local NGOs or other state hospitals without documentation. Ndhlovu estimates that about 60% of the patients admitted at the Cullinan centre did not have medical records and almost a third had no identity documents. And as the centre staff were pressured to accept more patients, Ndhlovu says things got hectic and normal admissions procedures were not followed. She believes standard screening techniques would have prevented the Cullinan Care and Rehabilitation Centre from admitting patients that needed more care than the centre could provide, for instance for those with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health condition that can result in hallucinations and delusions, according to the United States nonprofit research organisation Mayo Clinic. Ndhlovu warns that Siyabadinga was even less prepared to care for extremely ill patients as it had no professional nurses. She says she voiced her concerns about the lack of professional medical staff but alleges she was threatened with being accused of insubordination if she did not follow orders. It was very painful for us to hear every second day that another patient has died. We were not giving justice to our patients but it was instructions from above, Ndhlovu says. Arbitration is expected to continue until at least October 30, according to head of the arbitration office Obakeng van Dyk. Research focusing on traditional crops that are often ignored and known as "orphan crops" shows they contain minerals and vitamins that are essential for the body and are mostly consumed by rural African people. Various agricultural research institutions in Africa are currently carrying out research on these crops mainly to improve yields and controlling and lowering disease tolerance. auntmasako via pixabay This is because there is need to urgently match Africa's booming population with adequate food systems because if people are well nourished they become healthy and productive which is good for development. As the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) puts it, "good nutrition begins with food and agriculture." The continent is the second most populous after Asia with about 2.1 billion people. One in three people suffers from some form of malnutrition according to the 2016 Global Nutrition Report. Societal costs of malnutrition have resulted in 11 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) being lost every year in Africa. Whereas the levels of stunting are generally on a decline over the past decade statistics are still unacceptably high with over 58 million of Africa's children stunted. Beyond the social cost, FAO notes that the cost to the global economy caused by malnutrition, as a result of lost productivity and direct health care costs, could account for as much as 5 percent of GDP, equivalent to $3.5 trillion per year or $500 per person. At the Graca Machel Trust we believe that good nutrition must start at an early stage, for example, the first 1,000 days from conception to birth are very critical. We work with key regional partners to increase capacity and build up the institutional establishment of national civil society nutrition networks. Strengthening these national civil society nutrition networks helps to keep nutrition advocacy in Africa on the global agenda. Focusing on orphan crops Now new research is looking at innovative ways to boost agricultural production to feed the continent's booming population by focusing on the orphan crops that have been used for many years by Africa's poor to relieve famine. Agricultural research is mainly concerned at increasing yields, adding of essential nutrients otherwise known as crop biofortification, and control and lowering of diseases. Research has particularly been targeted at traditional vegetables because there are highly nutritious. The Water Research Commission has identified three inter-related challenges in sub-Saharan Africa which is water scarcity, population growth, and food and nutritional insecurity of essential micronutrients - one of it is vitamin A. This also means agricultural production needs to increase against a backdrop of issues such as climate change (extreme weather, flooding, and droughts), soil fertility depletion, and land degradation. The majority of Africa's population live in areas with poor soil fertility, and in addition, there are problems of access to capital and agricultural inputs and farming methods used by most Africans, which affects yields. Traditional vegetables are capable of providing more than 50 percent of the recommended daily requirements of vitamins such as iron, zinc and beta-carotene and they are also drought tolerant. Some of these vegetables are Chinese cabbage, pumpkin and watermelon leaves, cowpea leaves and spider flower, which are widely eaten by mostly rural Africans in combination with thick maize meal porridge. These species often grow in the wild or as weeds and collected for consumption as vegetables by African people. There are equally nutritious with iron, zinc and vitamins A and C and are also drought resistant. The Water Research commission says: "The use of wild food forms part of the safety net that rural people use to cope with poverty, disaster and livelihood stress." And for many years researchers and policymakers have ignored these types of leafy vegetables, but during the past two decades, this has changed, particularly in countries like Zambia, Malawi and South Africa. The Agricultural Research Council of South Africa, for example, is making an effort to promote the cultivation and utilisation of these vegetables by farmers, especially women and other vulnerable groups to mitigate malnutrition, effects of climate change and create wealth for all participants along the entire value chain. Sweet potato research Researchers are also focusing on the sweet potato crop because it is the seventh most produced food crop in the world after maize, rice, wheat, potato, cassava and barley. That's according to FAO. And as a tuber crop, it is the third most important after potato and cassava. It is a staple food in Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi. It is also a common crop among poor farmers because it grows in marginal conditions with limited agricultural inputs and low labour requirements. And again, research is underway to improve sweet potato yield and make it more disease tolerant. Sweet potato roots produce more edible energy per hectare per day than wheat, rice or cassava and contain considerable amounts of carbohydrates, protein, fibre, pro-vitamin A, Vitamin C, riboflavin, thiamine and niacin. It has been proven in many countries that orange-fleshed sweet potato variety, for instance, can be used to combat and alleviate vitamin A deficiency. This explains why crop biofortification of sweet potatoes is in progress in most sub-Saharan Africa including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Zambia, Mozambique, Ghana, Madagascar and South Africa. This article was compiled by Regional Coordinator Women in Media Network Millie Phiri with the assistance of the Graca Machel Trust scholarship PHD student Sonia Naidoo and alumni Nadia Ibraimo. Counterfeiters are found in every industry; in music, film, and even the products we use on a daily basis. The industry makes millions of dollars in revenue which is accessed in unscrupulous ways. As the rise of fake news is plaguing the digital advertising landscape, so is the rise of counterfeit impressions. The online industry has grown tremendously in the past few years, and counterfeiters have discovered the potential the industry has for them to earn a quick buck. It is with this in mind that the IAB Tech Lab, together with industry players, has introduced ads.txt. A tool which is set to increase transparency in the fast-paced programmatic advertising ecosystem. Ads.txt stands for Authorised Digital Sellers and is a simple, flexible and secure method that publishers and distributors can use to publicly declare the companies they authorise to sell their digital inventory. The way this would work out is that the functionality would filter out impressions pretending to be from a premium publisher, as well as any unauthorised reselling of a publishers inventory. By creating a public record of Authorised Digital Sellers, ads.txt will create greater transparency in the inventory supply chain, and give publishers control over their inventory in the market, making it harder for bad actors to profit from selling counterfeit inventory across the ecosystem. To put it simply, the platform will provide a simple way for demand-side platforms (DSPs) to check if inventory from a particular source has been authorised for sale by the domain owner. Google is a major player in the digital advertising landscape has come out in full support of this tool in line with their product offering being DFP, Adexhange, and DBM. How to create an ads.txt file: SSPs Your ads.txt file should publicly declare the account for each exchange or supply-side platform (SSP) that is authorised to sell your inventory. Create this file as a text (.txt) file and host it at the root level of your domain (for example, https://example.com/ads.txt). Include a separate line in the file for each authorised seller. Each line in a publishers ads.txt list requires three pieces of data (plus a fourth optional field): , , , The sample file at https://example.com/ads.txt could include the following rows: yellowadexchange.com, 54251, DIRECT, AEC242 brownadexchange.com, 3325, DIRECT goldssp.com, 4451, RESELLER Google has a help centre article detailing the requirements for the fields as listed above. This article describes how to create an ads.txt file for Google publishers. For other SSPs/exchanges, visit their respective documentation on creating an ads.txt file or contact them. How DSP encode information from an ads.txt file In order for DSPs to ingest data from an ads.txt file, they will need to have a crawler that is capable of checking ads.txt files of the domains found in bid requests. The list will identify the Exchange or SSP that the domain is authorised to be sold on, and the Publisher ID on each exchange that is explicitly authorised to sell the domain. Additionally, ads.txt enables the buyer to determine if the Publisher ID that they are buying the domain from is owned and operated by the publisher, or if it is an authorised seller. Where to from here? Once implemented the key will be for agencies to get the publishers they represent to sign on to ensure that the success of the program is measurable. The program has been in its public comment stage leading to June 19 where its integrations into exchanges were being ironed out. One should mention though that its too early to tell how popular the tool will become within the ad industry. However, gauging from the responses so far it is set to bring relief to buyers and publishers alike. Sources: https://docs.openx.com/Content/demandpartners/quality-ads-txt-demand.html https://support.google.com/dfp_premium/answer/7441288?hl=en https://iabtechlab.com/how-to-ads-txt/ About the author: Bongani Mtlhavani Bongani is a campaign manager at DQ&A. With his ear constantly listening to the heartbeat of the digital media industry Bongani has worked for various media and advertising houses and has around four years in the marketing and digital media environments. Always on the lookout for new products offerings and insights from various platforms like Google, Facebook, Appnexus, Tubemogul as well as others in the digital media space helps him when recommending solutions for clients. Impala Platinum, the world's second-largest producer of the metal, has bought a minority stake for $30m in the undeveloped Waterberg prospect owned by Canada's Platinum Group Metals. Nico Muller, CEO: Implats The acquisition fits in with new CEO Nico Muller's stated intention of looking for large, shallow resources to offset the risk of operating deep-level platinum mines. "We have made it a priority to increase Implats's strategic optionality and this investment represents an important step to create the potential to develop a significant, lower-cost, lower-risk resource," Muller said in a statement. Implats is buying the 15% stake in the Waterberg prospect on the Northern Limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex for cash from Platinum Group Metals, which has just sold its only operating asset to Royal Bafokeng Platinum, and Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (Jogmec), with an agreement to take control of the project after a definitive feasibility study on it. "Waterberg represents a large-scale platinum group metal resource with an attractive risk profile given its shallow nature. This facilitates fully mechanised production with the potential for the project to have among the lowest operating costs in the PGM (platinum group metals) sector," Implats said. Implats will from now be closely involved in the definitive study of the Waterberg prospect and will then have 90 working days once the study is complete to decide whether it will take up a 50.01% stake in the project by buying a further 12.19% from Jogmec and investing $130m into developing a mine at Waterberg for a 22.18% stake in the project which Implats will manage. The Flight Centre Foundation aims to break the cycle of poverty through education, running a number of relevant programmes, including offering bursaries to children from disadvantaged backgrounds, supporting ECD centres as well as after-school initiatives in underprivileged communities. Diane Cleary, project manager for the Flight Centre Foundation, shared with Bizcommunity more on some of the successes as a result of the foundation's work, how it ensures its impact is sustainable, and how it plans to further its efforts in the near future. Share with us some of the most memorable success stories to come out of the work of the Flight Centre Foundation. Diane Cleary, project manager, Flight Centre Foundation Every time we are able to make a difference to a childs life, however small, we consider it to be a success story. Some of our bigger success stories though have included: our six children, currently in Grade 8, who are on full bursaries. With the help of the parents, the schools and the foundation, all of these children have adapted well to their new schools and are doing extremely well academically, socially and in sport. We donated an additional classroom to Philile Diepsloot, enabling 20 further young children to be able to attend an early childhood development centre. Through our own efforts, and those of sponsors, we have managed to ensure that all the children (200 in total) receive breakfast daily and lunches once a week. We have managed to secure funding from Flight Centre Foundation UK to renovate the Grade R classrooms and play area at Quobosheane Primary School in Soweto. Taking 100 children from Joe Slovo in Cape Town, an area rife with drugs, gangs and alcohol, and by offering them an afterschool programme, we are giving them the opportunity to have a better future. Why has education been chosen as the focus for the Flight Centre Foundation? We believe that the only way to make a long-term sustainable difference is to improve education. Through improved education comes improved lives that not only affect this generation, but future generations. How does the Flight Centre Foundation ensure its work is sustainable? All of our projects are long term projects and cover from the earliest stages of a childs life (ECD centre) right through to tertiary education. Our strategy is not to simply make financial contributions to our projects, but to adopt an active and holistic approach to the project. An example of this would be our whole school project where the aim is not to just improve the lives of the children at the school, but to make an impact on the greater community as well through involving them in the project. Through empowering people, we can make all of our projects sustainable. How are Flight Centre employees allowed to contribute to the Flight Centre Foundation's efforts? How is staff participation motivated? Flight Centre employees contribute through Workplace Giving (WPG) our staff pledges a certain amount to be deducted from their salaries on a monthly basis. Staff participation is motivated through regular feedback to all our staff on the work that the foundation is doing and the progress of our various projects. Each staff member also gets a CSI day, which they use to physically work on various projects and see the challenges first-hand. How is the performance of the Flight Centre Foundation measured and assessed? Through quarterly board meetings, the performance of the foundation is measured and assessed. Regular feedback from our beneficiaries also acts as a form of assessment. There are KPIs in place for the foundation that measure performance in terms of fundraising, staff involvement, and progress on the various projects that we are involved in. How important is it to align your CSR strategy with the brand and what are the benefits of doing so? Flight Centre Travel Group has a strong focus on self-development and education of its workforce, as well as offering opportunities to its staff for advancement. We believe there is strong synergy between offering our staff the opportunity to reach their full potential, and offering the young people that we assist through education to reach their full potential. How does the Flight Centre Foundation ensure its efforts are both authentic and transparent? We are very open and transparent with not only what monies we receive from our staff, but how this money is spent. We also give all our staff the opportunity, by way of a survey, every quarter, to let us know how they would like their WPG monies to be spent. Are there any plans in the pipeline to further amplify the Flight Centre Foundation's efforts? As with any non-profit, our aspirations exceed our income. We aspire to have a further two young people on bursaries annually, increase the number of special needs children to 10, be able to provide meals daily to the 200 children in the ECD centres we support, have an additional classroom so that we can accommodate a further 25 children in Diepsloot, to increase the number of young people on our afterschool programme in Cape Town from 100 to 125 next year, and to fast-track the programme for renovating the school in Soweto and uplifting the local community. To be able to do this, we need to increase our income substantially. To achieve this, we aim to encourage other corporates to come on board with us in terms of their socio-economic development spend (we can offer all the necessary documentation in terms of B-BEEE). For more on the Flight Centre Foundation, go to www.fcfoundation.org.za. The country needs to come up with viable models to bridge the R30bn per year shortfall in water services infrastructure funding. PaylessImages The Department of Water and Sanitation is currently in the process of drafting the countrys new National Water and Sanitation Master Plan, expected completion March 2018, which created the backdrop for the third Annual Water Stewardship summit, where water, infrastructure and financial sector stakeholders met for in-depth talks on funding models to improve South Africas water security. Outlining the goals of the plan, Trevor Balzer, deputy director general: strategic and emergency projects at the Department of Water Sanitation, echoed sentiments made earlier this year by his deputy minister, Pamela Tshwete, who, at the first dialogue on the Water and Sanitation Master Plan on 19 May this year, called upon big businesses to assist in funding sustainable development projects. Todays event has brought us together at a critical time in South Africas water and sanitation planning. We expect to incorporate the feedback we received today from the financial community and other stakeholders to create a plan that effectively addresses the countrys needs. The summit, organised by the Strategic Water Partners Network, the National Business Initiative and the Royal Danish Embassy, provided an often-neglected opportunity for public and private financiers to become involved in the initial planning and project conceptualisation stage of the new National Water and Sanitation Master Plan. By involving such financiers early in the process, it is hoped that the master plan can be designed in a way which is as beneficial to the country as it is attractive to investment. South Africa faces water services challenges on a number of fronts, including supply, ageing infrastructure, the need for new infrastructure, significant non-revenue water losses and the issue of revenue collection. Enhanced efficiencies Getting involved at this stage of the planning process helps us from a corporate and investment banking perspective to better conceptualise how we can leverage our strategic, operational and sustainability goals to proceed in a way which will contribute to the future master plan," said Catherine-Candice Koffman, head of infrastructure and telecommunications project finance at Nedbank CIB. The current funding situation presents us with an enormous range of opportunities, cunningly disguised as insurmountable problems, said Cornelius Ruiters, executive: infrastructure and programme management services at the Independent Development Trust (IDT), who encouraged urgent and innovative new water infrastructure funding models in South Africa, as well as a focus on enhanced efficiencies in the system. "Stringent government regulations around water services in Denmark have driven innovation in the sector, so we now have world class companies operating in this arena and there are opportunities for our government to support further academic research and innovation in the South African water sector," said the Danish ambassador, Trine Rask Thygesen, on the side lines of the summit: The government of Denmark has three main aims in supporting South Africas efforts to improve water security and bridge the infrastructure funding shortfalls: foreign policy and our long-standing partnerships with South Africa, our ongoing interest in helping improve water services, and the fact that Denmark has developed world class water infrastructure innovations. Uber drivers in the United Kingdom are just one example of how the digitisation of services, globalisation and the rise of independent contractors are changing the way we differentiate between employees', service providers' and contractors'. The so-called gig economy (also known as the sharing economy) cannot be housed in a one-size-fits-all business model that would apply to all workers.Therefore the focus should be on ensuring that people are compensated fairly and legally protected in our changing, increasingly flexible economy. Why payment and accountability becomes a complex issue The reason why its difficult to create a clear-cut payment strategy for gig workers is because there are different types of working situations. A worker could be using an international app to find work and deliver products or services and there wouldnt necessarily be a local intermediary company involved, which would make payment accountability a more complex legal issue, says Cathie Webb, director of the South African Payroll Association. The United Kingdom recently ruled that Uber drivers arent self-employed and should earn the national living wage. This decision has been appealed and negotiations are ongoing, but it highlights the way that many businesses may need to change their models and definitions regarding employee vs contract worker. Other examples of the gig economy are running smoothly. Etsy allows craftsmen to market their products to an audience that they wouldnt normally be exposed to and Fiverr.com enables professionals to share their skills in an international marketplace. These are easier gig economy scenarios because an invoice is sent to a customer and the intermediary or website takes a cut. This is like paying rent for a shop floor space, says Webb. Clarity in work contracts are needed In South Africa, the national Income Tax Act has guidelines to establish whether a person is in standard or non-standard employment, along with guidelines as to how these workers should be compensated and taxed. One of the key elements is ensuring that the employment contract is correctly formulated. Essentially, if someone is giving ones capacity to serve at the disposal of the company, that person is an employee. If the person is producing a product or providing a service for a company, then the person is a private contractor. This detail should be clearly defined in the contract between the two parties, says Webb. Sars tests There are also many other guidelines by the South African Revenue Services that can be used to test whether a person is an independent contractor or an employee. The number of hours spent on the companys premises, the amount of supervision that is required by the company, and whether the contractor employs additional people, for example, can indicate whether a worker should be submitting invoices each month or should be paying to pay as you earn (PAYE) tax. This is a complex issue and there will undoubtedly be many more conversations around the compensation and benefits that apply to gig economy workers. What needs to be determined is whether the gig economy worker is as free is we believe to manage their own output, deliverables, and earnings, concludes Webb. As part of Airbnb's vision to empower communities through home sharing and to promote people-to-people tourism that benefits local families and their communities, the online marketplace has announced a $1m investment over the next three years to promote community-led tourism projects in Africa. Chris Lehane (Image Supplied) The announcement made by Chris Lehane, Airbnb global head of public policy and public affairs, at a press conference in Johannesburg City Hall together with Mayor Herman Mashaba and Hermione Nevill, World Bank Group Senior Travel Specialist, followed the presentation of a study demonstrating how Airbnb hosts in Africa have welcomed 1.2 million guests to the continent in the past year, while earning a combined $139m in host-income. The investments will be put to work in 2018 and will focus on three main areas: Empowering townships through hosting As part of Airbnbs belief that home sharing can support greater economic and social empowerment, Airbnb ran a pilot programme earlier this year - together with local partners - to support training in hospitality and technology for residents from townships across the Western Cape. Given its success, Airbnb will expand the programme - which is especially targeted at women and young people from underserved communities - to 15 more township communities across South Africa and scale the programme to other countries in Africa in 2019. Promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism through technology Airbnbs vision is to use technology to help spread the benefits of tourism, previously kept in the hands of a few, to the many. In May 2018, Airbnb will host the Africa Travel Summit and bring together 80 thought leaders from across the continent, in Cape Town, to share best practices, exchange ideas and to co-create a vision for how technology can best be used for inclusive and sustainable tourism growth. Potential attendees - such as governments, tourism boards, development agencies, technology companies, incubators and individuals - can apply to attend the Africa Travel Summit as of today through January 31, 2018. The University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB) will serve as the Summits learning partner and organisations such as The World Bank Group (WBG), The United Nations World Travel Organisation (UNWTO) and The Cape Innovation and Technology Initiative (CiTi) will also take part in the event. Supporting locals and non-profits through Airbnb travel As part of Airbnbs vision to promote people-to-people travel that helps generate new revenue streams for more communities, Airbnb will expand the Airbnb Experiences offer across the Western Cape. This will help more locals to turn their passions into economic opportunities and showcase the best authentic experiences that guests might otherwise miss. Airbnb will particularly focus on increasing social impact experiences - the proceeds of which go directly to a non-profit organisation. Image Supplied by Airbnb Building a new economic engine Lehane said: Africa is home to some of the most welcoming communities and breathtaking landscapes on earth. By leveraging technology to boost people-to-people tourism in Africa, we can help build a new economic engine for local families and their communities, while helping more guests enjoy magical travel experiences through the eyes of locals. Airbnb travel is already delivering significant economic benefits for Africa and today's investment will help kickstart new benefits for more people across Africa. Taleb Rifai, secretary-general for UNWTO said: UNWTO welcomes this initiative by Airbnb, a UNWTO Affiliate Member, as an effective means to promote development in Africa. Hermione Nevill, senior travel specialist at the World Bank Group, said: "Tourism in Africa is expected to continue its rapid growth. It is vital to ensure this growth occurs sustainably and drives poverty reduction across the continent. It is encouraging to see travel technology platforms such as Airbnb investing in Africa, and piloting more inclusive forms of tourism growth. Little over a year ago, three friends with thriving creative careers embarked on a mission to combine their love of Africa with their passion for surfing. Thus, Mami Wata was born, a premium African brand of surf apparel and accessories with an undeniable global appeal. It hasn't taken long for the world to notice. Mami Wata is sold on New York's e-commerce business platform, Oxosi, and in the General Admission store in Los Angeles. It was also one of the South African brands showcased in the Le BHV/Marais exhibition in Paris. Locally, the surf range has been selected to be sold in the Southern Guild Concept store at the V&A Waterfront as well as the Old Biscuit Mill and Lifestyle Surf Shop. Creative brains behind the brand South Africa enjoys an established reputation in the international surfing community, having set the benchmark for modern surf brands through companies like Gotcha and Instinct in the late 70s and 80s. Today, there are a few local surf brands, but not one global African surf brand. Nothing on the level of Quiksilver, Billabong, RVCA or Vans, all of which own the surf apparel space in Africa. The look and feel of these brands have become generic and international/western, explains Nick Dutton, co-founder and CEO of Mami Wata. Nick Dutton Dutton is a published novelist and has spent the past twenty years in advertising, while co-founder Andy Davis has been a journalist, magazine editor, filmmaker, publisher and entrepreneur, and currently publishes Zigzag surf magazine. Rounding out the founding trio is Peet Pienaar, a recognised artist and designer who has produced work for the likes of New York Times, MTV, Corn me Des Garcon, Diesel, Camper, FIFA, IBM and Nandos. He is also the designer behind Bos Ice Tea, with designs, posters and artworks in 12 international museum collections. Considering the creative brains behind the brand, it's little wonder then that Mami Wata's launch video, Woza - The African Surf Film, scooped a Bronze Lion at the Cannes Festival of Creativity and Best Cinematography at the Patagonia Film Festival. It has also been selected to run at the Berlin Surf Film festival and Ombak Bali Surf Film Festival. "Were passionate about Africa, surf and design. Africas got some of the worlds best waves, yet there arent any brands telling that story. Africa is the new frontier, not just of surf exploration. The continent has fostered many indigenous surfing cultures and this is a great story to tell. We want to take our locally made and designed surf gear and apparel to the world, says Dutton. In the spirit of Entrepreneur Month, Dutton shares Mami Wata's journey so far, and what they're planning next. You all had successful careers prior to the launch of Mami Wata. What inspired the move into surf apparel and accessories? Opportunity. We love Africa, surf, design and adventure and believe theres a clear place in the world for an African surf brand that manufacturers quality apparel, accessories and equipment in Africa. Where does the name Mami Wata come from? 'Mami Wata' is West African pidgin English literally meaning 'Mama Water... 'Mother Ocean if you prefer. From Madagascar to Morocco, Liberia to Mozambique, Mami Wata is the legend of the African water spirit that appears in the shape of a mermaid. It is said that those who she takes for her lovers, return with a new spirit and become more successful and good looking. Describe the Mami Wata design aesthetic. Africa meets Peet Pienaar. Peet is the design genius behind our brand and is world famous for his edgy work. How does the local surfing apparel market compare globally? There are a few interesting smaller brands in some key markets, but largely its the same as it is here - everything looks exactly the same and none of it is African! Some of the biggest struggles and major highlights on your small business journey so far? Our biggest struggle has been launching a surf brand with board shorts and tee shirts at the start of winter. That wasnt the plan. Things take longer, especially when you havent done them before. However, that may turn out to have been the best thing to happen to us. Weve learnt a shit load in the past six months, just in time for summer. Major highlights our launch film has won some very prestigious awards globally, but I still love it when people who have been wearing the product tell us how pleased they are with it and how impressed they are with the quality. In your opinion, what are the key skills and traits entrepreneurs need in order to succeed? Perseverance, agility, belief, a sense of humour and some more perseverance. Whats next for Mami Wata? Were opening a pop-up store in the Bo Kaap in Cape Town at the start of November. The primary focus of the store will be retail, where we showcase our beautiful products and give people a chance to actually feel the brand in their hands. Come and check it out. Will have some large bananas, beautiful surf boards and fantastic apparel. There will be a store launch, so keep an eye our for it. Shop Mami Wata online and connect with the brand on Facebook and Instagram. WoodEX for Africa 2018 will take place 11-13 July at Gallagher Estate in Midrand. Hosted biennially, the event is a timber-focused trade exhibition offering a business and networking platform to connect and grow the African timber, tooling and machinery markets. Building on previous years, WoodEX for Africa 2018 will showcase timber and woodworking products and services, such as woodworking machinery, fixtures and fittings, decking, flooring, structural timber, timber preservatives and treatment, sawmilling and logging, pulp and paper manufacturing, and wood material and veneer production. Timber Talk programme At the heart of WoodEX for Africa is the events Timber Talk programme which comprises a number of short presentations by industry influencers, including system designers, contractors, manufacturers and thought leaders who address pressing industry issues and hot topics from across the timber world. WoodEX for Africas Timber Talk sessions are free to attend and no bookings are necessary. The event is particularly popular with the African trade, which makes up 60% of international trade visitors, hailing from the likes of Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. For more info, go to www.woodexforafrica.com. Disciplinary proceedings against suspended acting Eskom CEO Matshela Koko had a second false start on Monday when it emerged that the state-owned company's new chairman would not be available for most of this week. Matshela Koko, suspended CEO of Eskom Mzungulu Mthombeni SC was forced to admit to Koko's legal representatives that he had not been briefed, given a letter of appointment, terms of reference or even a charge sheet. It was unknown yesterday when the hearing, which is scheduled for this week, will proceed because Mthombeni was unable to say when he would be available. Frans Barrie SC, representing Koko, said his client was anxious to get the proceedings under way. "This is the second time. The first time the matter was simply postponed. "According to the prescripts of the Eskom disciplinary code, labour matters such as these need to be dealt with within a certain timeframe and we are long past that. "We are very, very anxious for this matter to get under way," Barrie said. Koko is accused of failing to declare a conflict of interest when he contributed to the awarding of about R1bn in contracts to a company in which his stepdaughter was a shareholder. Accenture and partners - Transunion and The Da Vinci Institute - have announced winners of the Innovation Index 2017. The awards ceremony honoured businesses of all sizes for championing innovation in their own industries. All participants were assessed based on their level of advancements in innovation from the ability to modernise their products and solutions, to how they take them to market, said Ntombi Mhangwani, Africa director for integrated marketing and communications at Accenture. We paid special attention to their concepts, product developments, process and system designs, as well as how they delivered and commercialised their offerings. We also looked at their commitment to projects across the organisation, including senior management; and ability to make use of ever evolving technology in all its forms as a way of improving value to customers and operational procedures. The 2017 Accenture Innovation Index winners are: Overall Innovation Master (turnover in excess of R35m): First National Bank (FNB) FNB is one of South Africa's "big four" banks. It is a division of First Rand Limited, a large financial services corporation, which trades on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange (JSE), under the symbol: FSR. FNB is also listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange under the symbol FNBB and is a constituent of the BSE Domestic Company Index. Overall Innovation Master (turnover less than R35m): Bramhope Group Bramhope Group is a leading supplier of personal protective equipment (PPE), maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) and corporate workwear. The company provides a wide range of health and safety-related products as well as outdoor and leisure goods. Large Enterprise (joint winners) Concept category: InterGreatMe and FNB InterGreatMes Know Your Customer (KYC) and remote client onboarding solution is an innovative identity platform that revolutionises how users manage and share their personal information. Their streamlined and user-friendly app keeps users information secure while making their life easier by removing the hassle of repeatedly filling out and submitting the same material for applications, purchases and contract applications. InterGreatMe boasts incredible usability with a simple interface for easy use, quick interaction, and unmatched time-saving. FNB Connect - FNB became the first bank in South Africa to launch a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) branded as FNB Connect that is fully integrated into their core banking systems and digital customer-facing channels. It is the first in the South African industry to break away from the traditional 24-month contract norm by launching an innovative SIM plan that is billed on a month to month basis with no fixed term commitment (Connect Flexi). Medium Enterprises Concept category: KEY360 App SSG Consultings KEY360 is a revolutionary cloud-based business and project management solution with exceptional capabilities to handle workflow, data, documents, dashboards, KPIs, business and staff optimisation together with upskilling. Small Enterprises Concept category: HearScreen TX concept The hearX Group launched a world first clinical smartphone hearing test solution, HearScreen, with the aim to provide healthy hearing for everyone, everywhere. It provides an entirely new solution for traditional barriers to the detection of disabling hearing loss by using low cost, commercially available hardware, together with a custom developed software application. Emerging Enterprises Concept category: ColonyLive ColonyLive is a software-as-a-service messaging platform created and engineered by a small team of developers and interaction specialists. The ColonyLive concept assists radio and TV stations to better engage with their audience through a world-class engagement cross-platform. The platform allows stations to accurately understand their audience and how to engage with them through its real-time analytical capability. All winners will receive a customised innovation diagnostic that identifies innovation gaps and strengths, provides a benchmark by turnover and sector, and includes strategies that may help them to improve their businesses and gain competitive advantage. The Accenture Innovation Index measures, recognises, and rewards innovation and systems of innovation in organisations of all sizes in the South African public and private sectors every year. The Index is designed to provide a national benchmark for innovation, providing businesses and policymakers with an authoritative and objective snapshot of the state of innovation within their organisations and in South Africa. Reportedly, representatives from political parties, witnesses of NCA Signing, members of Union Peace Dialogue Joint Committee (UPDJC), committee members of Ceasefire Union Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC-U), signatories of Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), diplomats, representatives from international organizations, businessmen and invited guests were present at the anniversary occasion among others. The NCA was initiated on Oct. 15, 2015 during the previous Thein Seins government tenure. A third meeting of Union Peace Conference 21st Century Panglong (UPC-21CP) is scheduled for later this year and Myanmar plans to hold another two meetings of the peace conference in 2018, according to Aung San Suuu Kyi. In order to assess or determine the peace negotiation process after two years of signing of the NCA and in which direction the political wind is blowing, let us examine the three stakeholders speeches given at this anniversary occasion. Aung San Suu Kyi Suu Kyi talked about her governments inheritance of the NCA from the previous regime in 2016 and some achievement in establishing the JMC and could be taken as a positive step in instilling a culture of negotiation to settle the dispute. She said other than that it was instrumental in decreasing the armed clashes to a certain extend benefiting the population in the areas of signatory EAOs. The UPDJC was also able to produce the Union Accords first agreement of 37 fundamental principles on federalism during the successfully launched UPC-21CP from May 24 to 29 of this year. Her speech main thrust is the unmistakably wooing of the NCA non-signatories to become part of the peace process. She reiterated he usual urging and said: When the government initiated the peace process, some groups were still under negotiation and some had not accepted the NCA yet. For those non-signatory groups, we are ready to welcome them and look forward to initiate peace negotiations. Our political dialogues were aimed to achieve fundamental principles acceptable to all. Our government welcomes all non-signatory groups to participate in the process of formulating the principles towards a Democratic Federal Union in the future. In fact, the NCA is not an end in itself, but just the first step towards national reconciliation in the country, she explained. She then explicitly stressed: I would like to reiterate today that the NCA opens the door for political dialogues which will pave the way to the Union Peace Conference. Min Aung Hlaing The Commander-in-Chief emphasized the role of the Military or Tatmadaw in Myanmars democratization process. He said: Since it assumed the State duties in 1988, the Tatmadaw government had been carrying out political, economic and social development undertakings till 2010. The Tatmadaw government held the National Convention with the involvement of the representatives of all walks of life and all strata of life of the people to adopt a Constitution suitable for a democratic state. He also try to justify the Militarys commitment to reform in an evolutionary way of democratization by saying: The Tasks which were compatible with the democracy system were implemented simultaneously. For example, Tatmadaw officers were assigned as chairmen of township and district administrative bodies, but later administrators of the General Administration Department were assigned to the job to build the administrative pillar under democratic system. Regarding the type of federal system the Tatmadaw envisaged he repeated the vaguely defined line as usual: The first basic principle guaranteed the Union based on democracy and federal system with full rights and guarantees of democracy, national equality and self-administration. His message as usual urged the non-signatory EAOs to sign the NCA. He said: All armed ethnic organizations must sign the NCA. Some organizations said it does not need to sign the NCA because there is no firing and attacks. In fact, the NCA means an agreement of ceasefire. Actually, its essence is wider and deeper. So, I firmly ask you to sign the NCA. He further stressed that the NCA was formulated in a democratic way which means it is an agreement of majority and cooperation, adding: The NCA was drawn by the government, the Tatmadaw and all armed ethnic organizations based on initial proposals of armed ethnic organizations, not by individual or single organization. He finally drive home his point by saying: No provision in this agreement limits or restricts the rights of people, but provide every possible right for them. It is therefore fair to assume that continued ignoring of this fact amounts to resisting the federal union which people aspire to, opposing democracy, having desire for armed anarchy, and disregarding the interests of the Union and its people. Mutu Say Poe The KNU leader main message was the adherence to the Panglong Agreement, signed on 12 February 1947 between General Aung San, representing an interim government of Burma Proper or Ministerial Burma, and the ethnic nationalities leaders, which emphasized mutual respect for each other, guaranteed democracy, national equality and rights of self-determination in building a federal union. He pointed out the broken promises made in the treaty by saying: All indigenous peoples (Thaingyintha) were able to achieve independence through the signing of Panglong Agreement. The Union was also established. But until today we are unable to realize the Panglong Agreement to the fullest (of its meaning), especially the paragraph 5 which guaranteed self-rule and self-administration within the region still cannot be implemented. Also Panglong Agreement paragraph 7 still cannot be implemented. He further said that failure to implement the Panglong Agreement to the fullest of its intention is the main cause of the ongoing civil war and that was why we have to be holding peace negotiation and political dialogue through the UPC-21CP. In addition, Mutu Say Poe pointed out the shortcomings in implementing the NCA as that Joint Implementation Coordinating Meeting (JICM), the highest organ in the NCA, which should be held every three months has not been regularly called; inability to from JMC at state-level although some could be established in some states, making it difficult for actual implementation on the ground; UPDJC unable to finish the Framework for Political Dialogue (FPD); and NCA signatory EAOs unable to hold national-level political dialogue as prescribed by the NCA. Meanwhile, Central Standing Committee of the KNU issued an eight-point statement which mostly echo its Chairmans speech of 15 October and also touch on a controversial issue of Rakhine conflict, which wrote: The handling of the crisis in Northern Rakhine by the government and the Tatmadaw brings the memory of what the KNU and the Karen people have experienced under the states four-cut policy through various forms of aggressive military operations that caused over 200,000 Karen people to become internally displaced persons (IDPs) and over 150,000 to become refugees. The statement further stressed: The KNU regrets witnessing the repeat of this history while efforts to achieve peace are being made, and is gravely concerned that the peace process will be derailed. Therefore, the KNU urges the government and Tatmadaw to seek politically dignified and non-violent ways to address the current crisis. Outlook Given such positioning of the stakeholders and some 70% of the ethnic fighting force still unable to join the peace process, plus the ongoing armed conflict in Kachin and Shan States, including the Rakhine crisis which the UN and international actors are forced to get involved, the whole peace process could only be taken as being stagnated, if not getting worse, regardless of how the powers that be in in Myanmar would like to think for itself. State Counselor and Commander-in-Chief seem to be on the same page regarding the signing of the NCA by the non-signatory EAOs, the Panghsang seven-party alliance or Federal Political Negotiation and Consultative Committee (FPNCC) and the four-party membership United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC). The onuses boil down to the need to change the mindset based on altruistic-thinking that would lead to flexibility and accommodation; and to instill the often urged political will that could actually usher in a new era of political reconciliation and settlement. In concrete terms, it would mean agreeing on the common cause of peaceful co-existence on ethnic equality basis; accepting all-inclusiveness of EAOs in words and deeds; declaring unilateral ceasefire nationwide by the government to show its generosity and largesse; and honoring the Panglong Agreement of 1947, which is the sole legal bond between the Bamar and the other ethnic nationalities. Failing to follow all these and interpreting the legal bond of Panglong Agreement accordingly to suit the view of the government and Military like honoring the spirit and not the agreement would only prolong the war and ethnic conflict further, which is not an outcome that would benefit any party, if decades-long civil war is to be seen as an indication. The Most Extensive and Reliable Source of Information Related to the Mexican Drugs Cartels. You will not find this level of coverage anywhere else, join us! WARNING: Posts may contain strong violent material, discretion is advised. COMMENTS: We do not publish all comments, and we do not publish comments immediately. The Central Bank has been told to set a firm deadline for rectifying the tracker mortgage scandal. Today the bank revealed the number of customers defrauded by 15 Irish banks (they were wrongly moved from tracker mortgages onto more expensive loans) is higher than thought and the redress from the banks to date has been too slow and too little. Only a quarter of tracker mortgage holders defrauded by Irish banks have received compensation. Fianna Fail's Finance spokesperson Michael McGrath (pictured) said he believed the Oireachtas would be prepared to give the Central Bank new powers in order to see the scandal addressed, if the Bank asks for them. "KBC was probably the worst when they came before (the Oireachtas Finance Committee), because they completely stonewalled us and it would appear they have been taking the same approach with the Central Bank," he said. "Ulster Bank has been incredibly slow too, in issuing redress and compensation. "There is a need for a firm deadline and if there is any question of the Central Bank needing more powers, I'm sure the Oireachtas would be prepared to move on that." The Central Bank cannot force banks to compensate home owners for tracker issues prior to 2013. The Irish Mortgage Holders Association says the tracker scandal is the single biggest consumer rip-off in the history of the state. Some of those defrauded by Irish banks have told an Oireachtas committee of the devastating medical and financial effects on their families. So far 20,000 cases have been uncovered, but it is estimated that could reach 30,000. Financial advisor and founder of the tracker mortgage campaign Padraic Kissane said he believes the numbers affected will certainly rise above 20,000. The governor of the Central Bank Philip Lane will be questioned before the Dail on Thursday. The CEO of Malaysia Airlines is taking over Ryanair's flight operations. Peter Bellew is joining Michael O'Leary's team as Chief Operations Officer. He previously worked with the airline. Malaysia Airlines has suffered a number of serious incidents in recent years, most notably the disappearance of MH370 and its passengers. Michael OLeary said: "Having worked previously in a senior role in our operations team, Peter has an unrivalled knowledge of our business model and how we maintain controlled growth, with industry leading punctuality, for the benefit of our customers and our people. "Peter will lead a significant transformation in the way we reward and interact with our pilots, improve their working environment and career development over the coming years as we grow the fleet to some 600 aircraft and expand our traffic." Mr Bellew said: "I am excited to return home to Ryanair and take up the challenge to grow the operation sustainably. "I look forward to working with all the team and all the crews I know so well to further develop our growth to 600 aircraft over the next six years." Ireland's three main airports expect to operate as normal today with some minor delays following on from yesterday's storm. However Cork, Dublin and Shannon airports are continuing to advise passengers to check with their airlines. Dublin Airport have had eight cancellations so far this morning to airports in the UK and Europe, with one flight coming in from Madrid also cancelled, but they are largely operating as normal. Cork Airport had two flights to and from London Heathrow called off and another flight from Malaga cancelled and have experienced some minor delays, but expect their schedule to run as normal today. .@CorkAirport plans to operate a normal schedule of flights today albeit with some minor delays. Please check in as normal with your airline pic.twitter.com/2b5uNtZTkG Cork Airport (@CorkAirport) October 17, 2017 Shannon Airport say their staff worked throughout the night to help airlines clear a backlog of flights delayed by Ophelia. Three transatlantic flights to Boston, New York and Providence, which experienced disruption yesterday morning, left the airport by 6pm yesterday evening. By 3am this morning all flights, including six diversions due into Dublin from Nice, Rome, Madrid, Faro, Palma and Bari, had left Shannon Airport. A Delta flight diverted to Dublin yesterday morning due to the severe weather conditions will now resume its journey from Shannon to New York JKF at 9.30am this morning. Let Me Tell You is a new bespoke podcast series from Hosts Daniel McConnell and Paul Hosford take a look back at some of the most dramatic moments in recent Irish political history from the unique perspective of one of the key players involved. Two Ireland and Ulster rugby stars are to stand trial on charges of rape, a court has ruled. Paddy Jackson, 25, and Stuart Olding, 24, appeared before Belfast Magistrates' Court on Tuesday for a preliminary investigation into the accusations against them. It was the first time the pair were required to attend court proceedings since being charged. After considering legal arguments from prosecution and defence barristers District Judge George Conner ruled there was enough evidence to return the pair for Crown Court trial. They were required to stand in the body of the court, alongside another two co-accused, while the charges against them were read. Both men are accused of raping the same woman at a property in south Belfast in June last year. Olding, of Ardenlee Street, Belfast, is charged with two counts of rape. Jackson, from Oakleigh Park, Belfast, is accused of one count of rape and one of sexual assault. Fly-half Jackson has been capped for Ireland 25 times and centre Olding has played four times. They are established stars for Ulster Rugby. The Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby have said they will not play again until court proceedings conclude. Two other men were also returned for trial on charges connected with the incident. Blane McIlroy, 25, from Royal Lodge Road, Ballydollaghan, Belfast, is accused of one count of exposure. Rory Harrison, 25, from Manse Road, Belfast, is charged with perverting the course of justice and withholding information. All men were released on their own bail of 500. The date of the trial has yet to be fixed. A retired soldier who pleaded guilty to raping his daughter over a five-year period and to regularly abusing another daughter will be sentenced next month, writes Sarah- Jane Murphy. Jerry O'Keefe (69) of Oakhill, Youghal, Cork pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to three charges of rape, five of indecent assault and one of sexual assault. These were nine sample charges out of a total of 78 covering a period from January 1980 to March 1987. Timothy O'Leary SC, prosecuting, told court that both women were waiving their right to anonymity. Sergeant John Sharkey told Mr O'Leary that the three charges of rape and two charges of indecent assault relate to his eldest daughter, Amy Barrett and took place at the family home at The Arch, Youghal, Co Cork. Sgt Sharkey said that O'Keefe regularly asked Amy, who was aged eight at the time, to sit on his lap in the siting room. He would then sexually assault her before bringing her upstairs to his bedroom where he would remove his clothes and rape her. The abuse ended in 1985 when Mrs Barrett was aged 12. Sgt Sharkey said the remaining charges related to the abuse of the younger daughter, Melissa O'Keefe, which took place at the family's new home at Catherine's Street, Youghal, Co Cork. Melissa OKeefe leaves the Central Criminal Court in Dublin today. Pic: Collins Courts O'Keefe would go into the child's bedroom late at night after returning from the pub and climb into bed beside her. He would then molest her, the court heard. The women reported the abuse to the Southern Health Board in 1999 after attending the Rape Crisis Centre in Cork. As a result O'Keefe agreed to leave the family home and no further action was taken against him. Melissa O'Keefe said she went to gardai in 1999 but withdrew the allegations after her parents confronted her. Both victims reported the matter to gardai again in October 2014. In her victim impact statement Amy Barrett described her childhood as very traumatic, and said she was a mixed bag of confusion and terror as a result of her father's crimes. She said she found making friends very difficult and attempted suicide after the birth of her first child just to get some peace. She said still suffers from panic attacks and the sexual abuse took most of her confidence away. Mrs Barrett paid tribute to the Rape Crisis Centre in Cork, who she said supported her throughout the last few years since she reported the matter to gardai. I have had feelings of guilt, shame, embarrassment and hurt for years but today I hand them back to my Dad, she said. A victim impact statement on behalf of Ms O'Keefe was read out to the court and described how she resisted calling out for her mother in case she got into trouble. I went to gardai to make a complaint in 1999 but my parents confronted me so I had to lie and say I made it all up, she said. Ms O'Keefe said she found it hard to settle in relationships as a result of the abuse. If I get a certain smell or if someone moves in a certain way I freak out. But today I finally have the voice that I didn't have when I was 16, she said. The court heard that O'Keefe, who has no previous convictions, completed three tours of the Lebanon and retired from the army in 2004. Ronan Munro SC, defending, told the court that O'Keefe was himself the victim of sexual abuse when he was a child. He said O'Keefe made some admissions to a psychiatrist and agreed to leave the family home. His client suffers from a heart condition and has poor mental health, counsel said. Judge Patrick McCarthy remanded O'Keefe in custody until November 6 when he will be sentenced. A retired surgeon has gone on trial accused of indecently assaulting six teenage boys while he was treating them as patients. Dr Michael Shine (85) denies eight charges of committing indecent assault at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and at his private clinic - both in Drogheda, Co Louth - on dates between 1964 and 1991. During his arraignment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court today, Dr Shine replied: "I absolutely deny that allegation", to each of the charges. Opening the case for the prosecution, Bernard Condon SC said that the six complainants were all teenage boys at the time that Dr Shine allegedly touched them in the genital areas while treating them for injuries such as cuts to a knee, a broken ankle, an injury to a finger and an injured toe. The first complainant, now aged 65, testified he was aged 13 when he attended with his mother at the hospital in 1964. He was suffering from a cyst on his chest which he said was quite sore. In a cubicle a nurse carried out an initial examination before telling them the doctor would be with them. He said that Dr Shine came into the cubicle and his mother left. He said he didn't know if she was asked to leave or if she left of her own accord. He said a curtain was pulled and he believes he was just wearing his underpants at this point. He said the defendant felt his chest and pressed into his stomach. Dr Shine told him it all works together before then massaging the boy's testicles, the witness said. After a minute or so of this Dr Shine again rubbed his stomach and repeated it all works together, he said. He said he understood that this meant his testicles and chest worked together. The examination was over quickly and he dressed and left with his mother. He told counsel: It was just an ordinary examination as far as I was concerned. Counsel for Dr Shine will cross-examine the witness tomorrow. In his opening Mr Condon told the jury that a second complainant was taken to the hospital with a finger injury and Dr Shine felt his testicles and penis. Another complainant will say he was in his late teens when he went to Dr Shine to treat a knee injury and Dr Shine squeezed his testicles, Mr Condon said. He told the jury that a fourth complainant was 15 when he saw Dr Shine for a broken ankle bone and the accused allegedly groped his genitals. The fifth complainant will testify that he was 16 when Dr Shine allegedly groped him, he said. Dr Shine was allegedly treating a sixth boy for hernia and undescended testicle when he massaged his genitals to the point of ejaculation, the jury heard. Mr Shine, of Wellington Road in Dublin 4 is accused of committing the indecent assaults at the hospital on unknown dates between 1964 and 1965, 1970 and 1972, 1975 and 1976 and, finally, on a unknown date between 1988 and 1991. He is also accused of indecently assaulting a male on two occasions in a clinic in Drogheda on unknown dates in 1973 and 1974 and in 1975. The trial continues before Judge Cormac Quinn and a jury of four men and eight women. It is expected to last two weeks. American author George Saunders has been handed this year's Man Booker Prize for his first full-length novel. Lincoln In The Bardo, which focuses on the night Abraham Lincoln laid his 11-year-old son to rest in 1862, was hailed as "utterly original" and praised by judges for its "witty, intelligent, and deeply moving narrative". The 58-year-old writer, who had been favourite to win, was presented with the prestigious literary award and 50,000 prize during a ceremony at the Guildhall in central London. Saunders becomes the second American author to take home the Man Booker Prize in its 49-year history, after Paul Beatty came top last year with satirical novel The Sellout. The judging panel deliberated for five hours on Tuesday - including spells of "fierce debate" - before unanimously naming Saunders as the winner. Saunders is the second US author to win the Man Booker Prize (Man Booker Prize/PA) Baroness Lola Young, chair of the judges, said: "The form and style of this utterly original novel reveals a witty, intelligent, and deeply moving narrative. "This tale of the haunting and haunted souls in the afterlife of Abraham Lincoln's young son paradoxically creates a vivid and lively evocation of the characters that populate this other world. "Lincoln In The Bardo is both rooted in and plays with history, and explores the meaning and experience of empathy." Baroness Young said it stood out for its "innovation" and "very different styling", adding: "It's an extraordinary piece of work. It was unique." Lincoln In The Bardo is the first full-length novel from acclaimed short story writer Saunders, who was born in Texas and lives in New York. The book details the evening of February 22 1862 - when a grief-fuelled Lincoln visited his son's crypt - exploring themes of death, grief and the possibilities of life, as well as the contrast between Lincoln's personal tragedy and public role. Saunders told Time magazine that he had not set out to write about the US statesman but was "captivated" after hearing about Lincoln's visit. "I thought of the book as a way of trying to instil the same reaction I'd had all those years ago," he said. First awarded in 1969, the Man Booker Prize is recognised as one of the most prestigious in the literary world, with previous winners including Salman Rushdie and Ian McEwan. It is the fourth year the awards have been open to any writer regardless of nationality, provided the book was written originally in English and was published in the UK. Commenting on the second consecutive American winner, Baroness Young said: "For us we don't look at the nationality of the writer, honestly I can say that hand on heart." She added: "We are solely concerned with the book, with what that book is telling us." Saunders beat two other US authors named on this year's shortlist. All six shortlisted authors for the 2017 Man Booker Prize for Fiction (AP) Paul Auster was nominated for 4321, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and civil rights movement, while Emily Fridlund was recognised for History Of Wolves, which explores the effects of "neglectful" parenting. British writer Fiona Mozley was shortlisted for her debut novel Elmet, along with Scottish author Ali Smith, who made the the shortlist for the fourth time with Autumn, a book "in part about Brexit". British-Pakistani author Mohsin Hamid completed the shortlist with Exit West, which explores the movement of people across the globe in search of freedom and those "caught up literally and metaphorically in crossfire". A new museum in the UK housing the last ever Concorde to be built and to fly has opened to the public for the first time. The 19m (21.3m) museum, called Aerospace Bristol, is located on the historic Filton Airfield in England and will give visitors a journey through more than a century of aviation history. The star attraction is Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last Concorde to be built and the last to fly. Visitors can explore the history of Concorde, step aboard the iconic aircraft, and be wowed by a dramatic projection show on to the supersonic jet that tells the story of Concorde and what it was like to fly at twice the speed of sound. Lloyd Burnell, executive director of Aerospace Bristol, said: "Aerospace Bristol offers something for everyone. Concorde, as always, has the power to amaze and looks just stunning in her new home. "We have created a first-class exhibition to tell the story of Bristol's aerospace achievements from 1910 to the modern day, and there are great fun interactives to keep all members of the family interested and entertained. "We hope that all those who saw Concorde on her final flight into Filton that historic day will want to be one of the first to come and pay tribute to this very special design and engineering icon and learn about the Bristol people who worked here over the years." The museum, which is housed in a 100-year-old Grade II listed building, was helped by a 4.7m (5,3m) grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Fundraising for the project is not yet complete and Aerospace Bristol has launched a public appeal for Concorde memories and donations to support the museum. A 325-pound woman in the US has been charged with killing her nine-year-old cousin by sitting on the child as punishment. Veronica Green Posey, 64, from Florida was charged with homicide and cruelty towards the child. Update 3.01pm: The Taliban have killed 71 people in attacks in Afghanistan's Ghazni and Paktia provinces, the country's deputy interior minister has said. The official, Murad Ali Murad, told a press conference in Kabul that the attacks on Tuesday were the "biggest terrorist attack this year". He said in one of the attacks, in southern Paktia province, 41 people, 21 policemen and 20 civilians, were killed when the Taliban targeted a police compound in the provincial capital of Gardez with two suicide car bombs. Scores were also wounded, 48 policemen and 110 others. The provincial police chief was among those killed in the Paktia attack. Mr Murad said in the attack in Andar district in Ghazni province, 25 policemen were killed and also five civilians. At least 15 people were wounded, including 10 policemen. Despite the staggering numbers, Mr Murad said Afghan forces are confident in their "readiness to fight terrorists and eliminate them from Afghanistan". Earlier: A Taliban attack on a police training centre in Afghanistan's eastern Paktia province has killed at least 14 people, including civilians. Health Ministry spokesman Waheed Majroo said dozens were also wounded in the attack on Tuesday in Gardez, the provincial capital. He said the city hospital reported receiving 130 wounded in the attack, which included a suicide bombing. Hamza Aqmhal, a student at the Paktia University, told The Associated Press that he heard a very powerful blast. He said it shattered glass and broke all the windows at the building he was in which he says is more than a mile from the training academy. Mr Aqmhal said he was slightly injured by the glass. A Paktia politician, Mujeeb Rahman Chamkni, said the provincial chief police, Toryalai Abdyani, and several of his staff were among those killed in the attack. He said most of the casualties were civilians who had come to the centre, which also serves a government passport department. Reports from Gardez said the attack there was still under way. AP UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has sidestepped calls to apologise for his comments about clearing bodies from a Libyan city. Mr Johnson, who sparked outrage earlier this month for saying the city of Sirte could be like Dubai if the Libyans could "clear the dead bodies away", was twice urged to say sorry during Foreign Office questions in the Commons. But he said the "best thing" the Government and MPs could do would be to "get behind" its plan to bring security to Libya, which he said would "do honour to all those who fell fighting Daesh in Libya". Mr Johnson was challenged by UK shadow foreign minister Fabian Hamilton to "directly apologise" to the families of the young men who died fighting in Sirte. Mr Hamilton said: "When challenged about his recent 'clear the dead bodies' remarks, the Foreign Secretary said that his only critics were those with 'no knowledge or understanding of Libya'." He echoed calls from Guma El-Gamaty, the head of the Libyan Taghyeer party, who said it was "insensitive" to talk about the bodies as if they were an "obstacle to British businessman enjoying beer and sunbathing". But Mr Johnson replied: "I think that by far the best thing that this Government and this House can do is get behind the plan that this Government is promoting to bring security to Libya, security to Sirte, and that would do honour to all those who fell fighting Daesh in Libya - that is the way forward for that country and that is the course that we are promoting." It came after SNP MP David Linden (Glasgow East) called on Mr Johnson to "do the right thing and apologise, or will he resign?" over the comments made during a fringe event at the Conservative Party conference. Mr Johnson replied: "We must all be aware of the reality in Libya and indeed in Sirte that there is a tragic absence of security and that the problems of that city have yet to be resolved. "But when they are resolved, and they will be addressed and they are being addressed with the help of this country, then I think that the people of Libya do indeed have fantastic economic prospects - and that is the objective of this Government." Earlier this month, Downing Street rebuked Mr Johnson's gaffe, branding his comments inappropriate, and when asked whether Mr Johnson should apologise, the Number 10 source said it was a "matter for him". A judge in Hawaii has blocked the latest version of the Trump administration travel ban just hours before it was set to take effect. US District Judge Derrick Watson on Tuesday granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the government from enforcing the policy. The Trump administration in September announced the restrictions affecting citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen - and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. Hawaii argues the updated ban is a continuation of President Donald Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States". Other courts are considering challenges to the policy. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions in the president's latest proclamation. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland have challenged the policy before US District Judge James Robart in Seattle, who struck down Mr Trump's initial ban in January. That policy led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Mr Trump revised the ban, state Attorney General Doug Chin changed the lawsuit to challenge that version. In March, Judge Watson agreed with Hawaii that it amounted to discrimination based on nationality and religion. A subsequent US Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate that 90-day ban on visitors from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and a 120-day ban on all refugees. But it said the policy did not apply to refugees and travellers with a "bona fide relationship" with a person or entity in the US. Hawaii then successfully challenged the government's definition of which family members would be allowed into the country. Judge Watson ordered the government not to enforce the ban on close relatives such as grandparents, grandchildren, uncles and aunts. The judge's order on Tuesday prevents acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson from implementing the latest travel ban. Judge Watson said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order should be extended. He found Trump's executive order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor". The judge, appointed by former President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling that found Mr Trump's previous ban exceeds the scope of his authority. The latest version "plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation," the judge wrote. The government has said the new policy was based on an objective assessment of each country's security situation and willingness to share information with the US. A British man diagnosed with schizophrenia in the UK who stabbed a refugee and cut off his penis hours after being released from hospital against the advice of psychiatrists has been convicted of murder. Jeffrey Barry, 56, attacked his neighbour Kamil Ahmad, 49, at his flat on Wells Road in Bristol, England at about 2am on July 6 last year. Bristol Crown Court heard that Barry held a long-standing grudge against Iraqi-born Kurd Mr Ahmad and had called police weeks before, claiming he was a rapist, a paedophile and a terrorist in Iraq. He murdered Mr Ahmad in a "savage and sustained" knife attack hours after being released from a psychiatric hospital. The court heard that psychiatrists had opposed Barry's release, but a mental health tribunal ruled that he should be discharged. Barry, who is being held in Broadmoor Hospital, denied murdering Mr Ahmad and instead admitted manslaughter by diminished responsibility. But a jury unanimously convicted him of murder after two hours of deliberations at the end of the two-week trial. Kamil Ahmad. Photo: Avon and Somerset Police/PA Wire. Mrs Justice May told the jury: "Notwithstanding the verdict, there are issues of illness here. "Mr Barry is in Broadmoor for a reason. He is there because he has a mental illness. "It wasn't one that was enough to reduce the offence in this case but it exists all the same. It is a chronic, enduring mental illness that requires treatment." Barry had lived at the Wells Road property, a multi-occupancy house for adults requiring support, for five years. He was racist towards Mr Ahmad, who moved in about three years after him, and claimed he had sex with a fellow resident. On May 24 last year, he told support workers he wanted to be notorious and murder a member of the public, allegedly adding: "Kamil would be top of my list." Barry also wrote notes saying that he planned to kill people living in the house, including Mr Ahmed. In a phone call to police on May 25 last year, Barry told an operator: "He has raped a vulnerable person. "He has committed two acts of theft and he has broken a television. He is a paedophile and a terrorist in Iraq." Barry relapsed after he stopped taking the drug clozapine in November 2015, due to it compromising his immune system. He was known to be drinking heavily, smoking skunk cannabis and behaving in a sexually inappropriate manner. On June 13 he was sectioned under the Mental Health Act after being filmed on CCTV performing a sex act, wearing only a police hat. He was taken to Callington Road Hospital in Bristol before being transferred to the Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke in Weston-super-Mare. A mental health tribunal ruled on June 28 that Barry was well enough to be released, after he promised not to drink or take drugs. Consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Roger Thomas said the tribunal was unaware of how long Barry had been off clozapine. They were also unaware of his recent relapse, or of concerns raised by staff at the Milestones Trust, which manages the Wells Road property. The staff reported that Barry was becomingly increasingly obsessed with Mr Ahmad and was being sexually inappropriate. Barry left the hospital on July 6 without a care plan in place, despite Dr Thomas recommending that he be detained for further assessment. Staff at the Milestones Trust were not involved in the decision and were only informed of it a few hours before his return. They attempted to get an injunction to protect Mr Ahmad but there was not enough time. Notes from Barry's home. Photo: Avon and Somerset Police/PA Wire Barry returned to Bristol at about 5.30pm on July 6 and went to two bars, where he was seen with seven drinks. At 1am on July 7, having returned to his flat, Barry called a helpline answered by community psychiatric nurse Joanne Wood. "He said something about he didn't want to go to bed and he felt like punching somebody," Ms Wood told the court. "I said it was not acceptable to hit people because you feel like it, and to be responsible for your actions. "He responded by saying that he was criminally insane and not responsible for his actions, and ended the call." Ms Wood said she spoke to colleagues before calling police on 101 to report what Barry had told her. CCTV images showed Barry knocking on Mr Ahmad's door at 1.30am and leaving, covered in blood, at 2.15am. Officers arrived after Barry called 999, saying that he had killed Mr Ahmad. During the call Barry said: "Course it's murder isn't it? I'm going to say diminished responsibility." The day after the murder, police discovered a note in Barry's room saying: "The fact is, I have acted out my entire psychiatric history. I'm very well. Sorry." Home Office pathologist Dr Amanda Jeffery examined Mr Ahmad's body and found injuries to his face, head and neck. There were 25 stab wounds to his face, including his eyes, and fatal stab wounds to his stomach, right arm and left wrist. She found Mr Ahmad's penis had been cut off after his death. In December 2013 Mr Ahmad suffered facial injuries after being allegedly attacked by Barry. No further action was taken. Mr Ahmad also reported to police feeling scared of the defendant, in April last year. A spokesman for Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust described the murder as "tragic and brutal". "We remain committed to close co-operation with all agencies in an effort to prevent such an event happening in the future," he said. "We have reviewed and strengthened our ways of working with other service providers, including the police, to improve our sharing of clinical and additional relevant information." John Hoskinson, chief executive of the Milestones Trust, said an internal review was being conducted into the case. The organisation is also working with NHS England and Bristol Safeguarding Adults Board with its investigations. "We do understand this is a very difficult time for those involved but are unable to comment further until the results of these investigations are known," Mr Hoskinson added. A Safeguarding Adults Review, looking into the circumstances of Mr Ahmad's death, has been commissioned. Detective Chief Inspector Richard Ocone, of Avon and Somerset Police, said Barry "knew exactly what he was doing" when he attacked Mr Ahmad. "The public are now much safer with him off the streets for he is an exceptionally dangerous man," he added. Those interested in more information or support in relation to mental ill health can visit Shine.ie, the national organisation dedicated to upholding the rights and addressing the needs of all those affected by mental ill health, through the promotion and provision of high-quality services and working to ensure the continual enhancement of the quality of life of the people it serves. A key potential ally in Germany's next government is insisting Chancellor Angela Merkel's party should not keep the finance ministry because that gives her too much power. Exploratory talks on a potential coalition of Mrs Merkel's conservatives, the pro-business Free Democrats and traditionally left-leaning Greens start this week. Terrorist plots are escalating to the point of violence in a matter of days after a "dramatic" jump in the scale and pace of the threat facing Britain, the head of MI5 has warned. Andrew Parker highlighted the "short life" of some attack plans as he described how the danger to the UK is now at the highest tempo seen at any point in his 34-year intelligence career. In rare public comments, he also set out how extremists can exploit "safe spaces" online, making the task of disrupting their activities more difficult. And he issued a fresh challenge to technology firms, saying they have an "ethical responsibility" to help governments confront the threat. In his first substantial remarks since Britain was hit by a flurry of attacks this year, Mr Parker detailed the "acute and enduring" challenge posed by Islamist terrorism. Twenty plots have been foiled over the past four years, including seven in the last seven months. "We've seen a dramatic up-shift in threat this year," Mr Parker said in a speech in central London. "Today there is more terrorist activity, it's coming at us more quickly and it can be harder to detect." Security services and police are operating at a scale which is "greater than ever before", with well over 500 live operations involving around 3,000 individuals. Agencies must also assess the risk posed by those returning from Syria and Iraq, and the "growing pool" of more than 20,000 people looked at as part of previous terror investigations. Mr Parker also noted that there will be some violent extremists "not yet known to us at all". He said the shift is being driven by the "murderous strategy" of Daesh (also known as Islamic State) and online propaganda, and warned that the threat is "more diverse than I've ever known". "Plots developed here in the UK but plots directed from overseas as well," he said. "Plots online. Complex scheming and also crude stabbings. Lengthy planning but also spontaneous attacks. "Extremists of all ages, gender and backgrounds united only by the toxic ideology of violent hatred that drives them. "These threats are sometimes now coming at us more quickly - whether crude but lethal attack methods, for example using a knife or a vehicle, or more sophisticated plots, when in today's world terrorists can learn all that they need online to make explosives and build a bomb." He said attacks can sometimes accelerate "from inception through planning to action in just a handful of days", adding: "This pace, together with the way extremists can exploit safe spaces online, can make threats harder to detect and give us a smaller window to intervene." Among the plots seen in recent years some have had a "very short life from first inception to intent to act", Mr Parker said. "Some of them would be measured in days, at the extreme," he added. While Daesh is "rapidly losing ground" in its heartlands in Syria and Iraq, tackling it as a movement will require "sustained international focus for years to come", the Director General of MI5 said. He made clear that counter-terror agencies "can't hope to stop everything", acknowledging that "attacks will occur sometimes". But he said the vast majority are being found and stopped and a "perfect standard of 100%" is not achievable. Striking a defiant tone, he described the response to the threat as "unrelenting". Mr Parker said: "Those that wish our country harm can expect to meet MI5 and the police. They will face the full force of the law and be brought to justice." Thousands of Rohingya are continuing to flee violence and persecution in Burma and crossing into Bangladesh, where more than half a million others are already living in squalid and overcrowded camps, according to witnesses and drone footage shot by the UN office for refugees. The UNHCR video shot Monday shows thousands of Rohingya trudging along a narrow strip of land alongside what appears to a rain-swollen river in the Palong Khali area in southern Bangladesh. Witnesses said that a new wave of refugees started crossing the border over the weekend. An Associated Press photographer saw thousands of newcomers near one border crossing Tuesday. Several said that they were stopped by Bangladeshi border guards and spent the night in muddy rice fields. Local government administrator Mohammad Mikaruzzman said Tuesday that he heard some 20,000 people have arrived since Sunday, crossing the border on foot or by boat at several points. RohingyaVillagesatellite17Oct2017_large.jpg According to the UN some 537,000 Rohingya refugees have arrived in Bangladesh since violence erupted there on August 25. The exodus has continued, with a few small breaks, over the last eight weeks. The new arrivals, almost all terrified and starving, have described scenes of incredible violence, with army troops and mobs of Buddhist locals attacking Rohingya homes. The UN has described the violence in Burma's Rakhine state as "textbook ethnic cleansing". More recent refugees have also said the Rohingya were being starved in a bid to make them leave. A woman who spoke to The Associated Press on Tuesday after her arrival said they had had no food to eat. "We came here two nights ago with lot of difficulties. It took us eight days to reach here," said Anjuma, who gave just one name. Several refugees said Bangladesh border guards were not letting them move toward the refugee camps and they were forced to spend a night out in the open in pelting rain. AP Turkey's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged European Union leaders to simply say whether they want to accept Turkey as a member or not. Turkey's decades of efforts to join the 28-member European club seem to be stalled by the government's harsh reaction to a coup attempt last year. Tens of thousands of people have been arrested or dismissed from their jobs in Turkey since the July 15 2016 coup attempt. "I would like to hear a clear declaration," Mr Erdogan said on Tuesday during a visit to Poland. "If you want to accept Turkey, just do it. If you don't want to, just tell that." Polish president Andrzej Duda said Poland backs Turkey's effort to join the EU. "Poland has supported and supports today Turkey's efforts to join the European Union," Mr Duda said, standing along Mr Erdogan. "Turkey is an especially important EU partner in the area of security." Mr Duda said they had a "very long and honest" talk about the current situation in Turkey after the "dramatic situation" of last year's coup attempt. Earlier, Mr Erdogan was greeted in Poland with military honours. During the welcoming walk before Poland's military, Mr Erdogan missed the customary bow before the troop's banner and Mr Duda grabbed his elbow to make him return to the site. Mr Erdogan's planned meeting with prime minister Beata Szydlo was cancelled, her press office said, without saying why. Mr Erdogan was meeting with parliament speakers and was also planning to attend a Polish-Turkish business forum. Poland's small opposition left-wing Together party said Mr Erdogan should not be received with state honours because his government is "violating human rights." AP US Army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl's guilty plea to charges of endangering comrades in Afghanistan has set up a sentencing hearing that could land him in prison for life. Bergdahl, who was captured and held by the Taliban for five years after leaving his remote post in Afghanistan in 2009, pleaded guilty on Monday in North Carolina to desertion and misbehaviour before the enemy, a rare charge that carries a potential life sentence. Because Bergdahl had no plea deal with prosecutors, his punishment will be decided by the judge, Army Colonel Jeffery R. Nance, at a hearing starting on October 23. Bergdahl was thoroughly questioned by Col Nance at his plea hearing at Fort Bragg, and the soldier acknowledged that his actions, and subsequent military search missions, put fellow service members in harm's way. "I left my fellow platoon mates," he told the judge. "That's very inexcusable." At sentencing, the judge is expected to weigh factors including Bergdahl's willingness to accept responsibility by pleading guilty, his time in captivity of the Taliban and its allies, and serious wounds to service members who searched for him. "Pleading guilty before a judge without any protection from a deal is a risky move," said Eric Carpenter, a former Army lawyer who teaches law at Florida International University. "The military judge can sentence Bergdahl to zero punishment, but he can also sentence Bergdahl to life in prison." The guilty plea brings the highly politicised saga closer to an end eight years after Bergdahl vanished. President Barack Obama brought him home in 2014 in a swap for five Taliban prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, saying the US does not leave its service members on the battlefield. Republicans roundly criticised Mr Obama, and Donald Trump went further while campaigning for president, repeatedly calling Bergdahl a "dirty, rotten traitor" who deserved to be executed by firing squad or thrown out of a plane without a parachute. Bergdahl, 31, has said he walked away from his remote post in 2009 with the intention of reaching other commanders and drawing attention to what he saw as problems with his unit. "At the time, I had no intention of causing search-and-recovery operations," he said in court. "I believed they would notice me missing, but I didn't believe they would have reason to search for one private." Bergdahl's responses to the judge on Monday were some of his most extensive public comments yet. He said he tried to escape from his captors 12 to 15 times, with varying degrees of success. Once, he was on his own for about a week, hoping US drones would spot him, before he was recaptured. He said he also tried to escape on his first day in captivity. "As I started running there came shouts, and I was tackled by people. That didn't go so well," said Bergdahl, who spoke in even tones and wore a blue dress uniform. Meanwhile, Bergdahl's fellow service members engaged in firefights that they could have avoided had Bergdahl not gone absent without leave, the judge said. Those firefights left a Navy Seal with a career-ending leg wound and an Army National Guard sergeant with a head wound that put him in a wheelchair. AP Latest News Clawbacks, commissions discussed at FBAA conference Over 700 brokers attend successful Gold Coast event CBA becomes an official partner of FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 Bank's sponsorship boosts its strong support of female sport in Australia Inappropriate finance, including responsible lending (14.9%) Failure to act with due skill, care and diligence (11.5%) Misrepresentation/misleading conduct (10.9%) Complaint about credit providers fee or interest rate (9.3%) Failure to follow instructions (8.4%) The most common consumer complaint against mortgage brokers relates to inappropriate finance and responsible lending, a new industry report has found.In the latest Credit Industry Ombudsman (CIO) Annual Report on Operations, around 360 complaints were received about brokers and aggregators in the 2016/17 financial year. This accounted for 6.1% of the almost 5,900 complaints brought to the CIO in total during this time period.Breaking down the complaint types for brokers and aggregators, the top five most common issues are as follows:Other interesting issues included complaints about the brokerage fee (5.0%), fraud (3.0%), unconscionable conduct (2.9%), and complaints about brokers contract terms (2.3%).While the CIO didnt go into detail about the number of member brokers on board with the industry ombudsman, it reported a growing total membership which rose from just under 23,000 in 2015/16 to just over 24,800 in 2016/17.In the past financial year, the CIO helped return around $180,000 to consumers as refunds or compensation and brought in significant improvements to the policies and procedures of financial services providers with regards to responsible lending, financial hardship, disclosure and complaints handling, said CIO ombudsman and CEO Raj Venga.As an EDR scheme approved by ASIC and recognised by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), we are required to investigate any systemic issues or serious misconduct that we identify when dealing with complaints, he said.Over the last 12 months, this important area of our work produced some valuable outcomes, both for consumers and for industry. How you can help Give A Christmas to Lower Bucks families in need 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... UB geology department expands focus on climate science Kristin Poinar speaks at TED2017 - The Future You, April 24-28, 2017, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Credit: Ryan Lash/TED With support from UBs RENEW Institute, NASA researcher Kristin Poinar will join UB as the latest addition to the geology departments growing climate change research group BUFFALO, N.Y. The University at Buffalo geology department and RENEW Institute will welcome a new hire in January: Kristin Poinar, a NASA climate scientist whose study on giant cracks in the Greenland Ice Sheet made headlines worldwide in early 2017. Though Poinar will not be in Buffalo until 2018, Western New Yorkers have an opportunity to get to know her much sooner. A TED Talk Poinar gave this spring Whats hidden under the Greenland Ice Sheet? was posted online on Oct. 17 at http://go.ted.com/kristinpoinar. TED Talks are short, powerful talks that explain influential ideas. Poinars shares how she used computer modeling to discover what happens to meltwater that trickles into deep fissures called crevasses in the Greenland Ice Sheet. She found that instead of refreezing inside these massive chasms, the water reaches bedrock and finds its way to the ocean, contributing to global sea level rise. Sea levels are rising and are going to continue to rise, says Poinar, PhD. If we are to plan, as a society, how to cope with coastal floods, saltwater encroaching into our drinking water and disruption at our ports, we need to know just how much seas will rise, and how fast that is going to happen. A growing focus on climate change research We now have four researchers working in this area, which is quite large when it comes to groups focused on glaciology. Beata Csatho, professor and interim chair of geology University at Buffalo At UB, Poinar joins a geology department that has grown its climate change research group in recent years, with a focus on glaciology, the study of glaciers and ice sheets. We now have four researchers working in this area, which is quite large when it comes to groups focused on glaciology, says Beata Csatho, PhD, professor and interim chair of the geology department. Numerical modeling is very important for understanding how ice sheets and glaciers behave, and Dr. Poinar has expertise in this area. By having her here, we will be able to do more exciting experiments. It makes us more competitive. Like Csatho and the departments other climate scientists, Poinar will be a member of UBs RENEW Institute, which tackles complex energy and environmental issues and their social and economic ramifications. The RENEW (Research and Education in eNergy, Environment and Water) Institute is funding 50 percent of her position. With Kristin joining UB, we are filling a key scientific gap in the RENEW Climate Change and Socioeconomic Impacts focus area, says Amit Goyal, PhD, Professor of Empire Innovation and director of the RENEW Institute. She joins the university at a time when both the RENEW Institute and geology department are looking to expand their expertise in climate change research. For years, the UB geology departments core climate scientists were Csatho, who uses satellite data to monitor ice sheets, and Jason Briner, PhD, who uses geologic evidence from Arctic research expeditions to study the Greenland Ice Sheets response to prehistoric climate change. The group grew in 2015 with the hire of geochemist Elizabeth Thomas, PhD, an assistant professor of geology who investigates how precipitation in two sensitive areas the Arctic and East Asia responded to climate change over the past several hundred thousand years. Poinar, a postdoctoral fellow at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, will join the department as an assistant professor of geology. The mystery below the ice With Kristin joining UB, we are filling a key scientific gap in the RENEW Climate Change and Socioeconomic Impacts focus area. Amit Goyal, Professor of Empire Innovation and director of the RENEW Institute University at Buffalo In addition to cultivating a strong in-house team, the geology department co-hosted two high-profile events this year for the broader climate science community, with plans for a third in 2018. In March, researchers from across the U.S., Canada, Japan and Scandinavia came to UB for the 47th International Arctic Workshop. Then, in September, Briner ran a workshop on the Greenland Ice Sheet that drew some of the worlds top climate scientists to Buffalo to discuss future research priorities. And, finally, Csatho is organizing a major, weeklong symposium for the International Glaciological Society that will take place at the Hotel @ the Lafayette in June 2018. Poinar attended the September workshop, and Csatho says its clear that Poinars research area is one of growing importance. Poinar uses numerical models to study how meltwater interacts with ice, including through processes that occur deep below an ice sheets surface. This whole subglacial environment is a new frontier in our field, Csatho says. Some of the processes that occur underneath the surface are very difficult to observe, so how they occur is still very much a mystery. Its a very new area of research with a lot of promise for helping us understand how ice sheets will contribute to sea level rise. In addition to climate change, the geology department also has research groups on Environment and Energy, Evolution and Ecology, and Volcanoes and Geohazards. Media Contact Information U.S. women's soccer looks to its rising stars for next World Cup 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. With coal imports declining, most major ports of the country are looking at coastal shipping and diversifying cargo to offset the impact on capacity utilisation. has received final approval from the US health regulator to manufacture Esomeprazole Magnesium delayed-release capsules, used in treatment of frequent heartburn, in the US market. In a BSE filing, said it "has received final approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) to manufacture Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-Release Capsules OTC, 20mg". The approved product is therapeutically equivalent generic version of AstraZeneca's Nexium 24HR capsules. said the product will be launched immediately. The company quoting IRI database said the approved product has an approximate annual sales of USD 300 million. This is the 127th Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA), including 23 tentative approvals, to be approved out of Unit VII formulation facility in Hyderabad, used for manufacturing oral products. Aurobindo now has a total of 335 ANDA approvals (296 final approvals including 16 from Aurolife Pharma LLC and 39 tentative approvals) from USFDA. Stock of Aurobindo Pharma was trading 1.29 per cent higher at Rs 767.40 on BSE. Pune-based information technology (IT) firm has seen its investments in non-US markets pay off in the September quarter, which the company says is part of its long-term strategy. With the recent Rs 700-crore Hypercity deal, Kishore Biyani has become king of the consolidation game in food and grocery retail and the last man standing in Indias organised retail, which has few success stories of which to boast. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has dismissed an appeal by Stayzilla, a home-stay start-up, against the insolvency process order by NCLT. A bench comprising justice S J Mukhopadhaya, chairperson, justice AIS Cheema, member (judicial) and Balvinder Singh, member (technical) has said it did not found any merit in the appeal and ordered dismissal of the same. More than a third of the duration of the countrys international incoming calls are on over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, Facebook, Skype, and Google. Probe agencies are preparing answers to questions raised by Vijay Mallya in his defence affidavit against charges of money laundering and criminal conspiracy and seeking his extradition. India, the worlds fifth-largest automobile market, plans to sell only electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030 in a bid to slash its oil bill by some $60 billion and emissions by 37 per cent. Indias third largest information technology firm sees every dollar of its four dollars coming from digital services. Bhanumurthy B M, president and chief operating officer, Wipro, tells Ayan Pramanik and Raghu Krishnan service delivery through digital technology-enabled platforms will change the business dynamics for the company. Edited excerpts: Wipro, Indias third largest software exporter, said second quarter profits grew 5.6 per cent to Rs 2,189.5 crore, beating street estimates on the back of improved efficiency and growing business from customers for its digital offerings. It does not matter who built the Taj Mahal and for what reason; it was built by the blood and sweat of Indian labourers, Uttar Pradesh (UP) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is scheduled to visit the 17th-century monument next week, told news agencies on Tuesday. US President Donald Trumps new Afghanistan policy has Pakistan in a tizzy even after two months, with the latters response ranging from recounting its contributions to the US-led war on terror to its parliament threatening to block the ground lines of communication running through its territory to choke the supply to the International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan. Trump has practically put Pakistan on notice that should it continue to harbour and nurture the Afghan Taliban, particularly its most lethal wing, the Haqqani terrorist network (HQN), there will be serious consequences. One element in the US presidents speech that really rattled Pakistan was his call to India to increase its supportive role in Afghanistan. The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday stayed the withdrawal of Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPF) from Darjeeling hills, the scene of unrest over the statehood demand, till October 27, in a relief to the West Bengal government. Hearing a plea by the state against the Centre's decision to withdraw CAPF from Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, a division bench of Justices Harish Tandon and Debangshu Basak ordered an interim stay. It asked the state government to move a regular bench of the high court when it reopens on October 23 after the Diwali holidays. Appearing for the state, Advocate General Kishore Dutta prayed for status quo on the deployment of the forces. Altogether 15 companies of CAPF are deployed in the area. He said the matter would be mentioned before the Chief Justice on the first PIL day after the court reopens. The PILs are generally heard on a Friday. He referred to the killing of a police officer a few days ago when Bimal Gurung-led Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters fired at the security forces hunting for him, to buttress the state government's claim about the need for continued deployment of CAPF. The high court had while hearing a PIL on July 14 directed the Centre to deploy four more companies of CAPF in addition to the 11 already present in the hills then. The advocate general submitted that as the deployment was made following an order of the high court which had also been endorsed by the Supreme Court the same day on another petition before it, the Centre cannot withdraw the forces unilaterally without the permission of the court. The vacation bench today directed the Centre to file an affidavit in response to the state government's plea by October 23. It asked the state government to file its reply to the Centre's affidavit by October 26. The West Bengal government had written to the Centre seeking extended deployment of CAPF till December 25, but was told that out of the 15 companies present, 10 would be withdrawn on October 15 and the rest by October 20. The state was later informed by the Centre that three companies of women CRPF personnel out of the 10 proposed to be withdrawn on October 15 would stay there until October 20, he said. Dutta said the state government was making efforts to restore normalcy in the Darjeeling hills and that the withdrawal of forces at this juncture would seriously hinder the process. Noting that the Centre's resources were limited, its counsel submitted that the forces were required for deployment in different parts of the country for other commitments including elections in some states. Bipul Kundalia, counsel for the central government, claimed that the situation in Darjeeling hills had improved compared to what it was in July when the order on the deployment of paramilitary contingents had been passed by the high court. Noting that only the Himachal Pradesh Assembly election has been announced, the court told the Centre that it should have reasonable grounds for withdrawal of the forces. When asked by the court about the Centre's assessment of the situation, Kundalia said it was for the state government to evaluate it. At least 40 scientists from 13 Indian institutions, including IIT-Bombay played an important role in the exciting August 17 observation of gravitational waves from a pair of colliding neutron starts, detected for the first by Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and Europe's Virgo, officials said here. The Indian scientists were part of the team of 1200 scientists from 100 institutions worldwide, plus 280 physicists and engineers from 20 research groups of Europe, which contributed, among other things, to LIGO-Virgo discovery paper, said Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B) in a statement late on Monday night. The Indian scientists contributed to the fundamental algorithms that are crucial to search for inpiralling binaries in noisy date from multiple detectors, in computing waveforms for these signals by solving Einstein's equations, separating astrophysical signals from numerous instruments and environmental artefacts, interpreting the joint gravitational-wave and Gamma-ray observations, tests of Einstein's theory and many other aspets of the data analysis. From IIT-B, two faculty members of the Department of Physics - Archana Pai and V Gayathri -- are members of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration with complementary expertise. Archana Pai has expertise on multi-detector algorithms and probing astrophysical parameters in the joint detection scenario. The group interpreted joint- and gamma-ray observations along with K G Arun, (CMI, Chennai) and a PhD student M. Saleem (IISER Trivandrum) within the collaboration.A Varun Bhalerao, whose expertise is in the search and study of counterparts to sources, was involved in the EM follow-up efforts: the X-ray searches with AstroSat, along with student Arvind B, a search for optical sources with the Himalayan Chandra Telescope and a radio search with GMRT. The LIGO has Indian scientists drawn from CMI Chennai, ICTS-TIFR Bangalore, IISER-Kolkata, IISER-Trivandrum, IIT-B, IIT-Gandhinagar, IIT- Hyderabad, IIT-Madras, IPR-Gandhinagar, IUCAA-Pune, RRCAT-Indore, TIFR-Mumbai and UAIR-Gandhinagar. Besides, astronomers from IISER-Pune, IIT-B, IUCAA-Pune, TIFR-Mumbai, PRL-Ahmedabad, IIT-Hyderabad, IIA-Bangalore, NCRA-TIFR Pune, ARIES-Nainital and IIST-Trivandrum also took part in the electromagnetic follow-up of this event using a variety of telescopes. Several Indian telescopes like the AstroSat, Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope and Himalayan Chandra Telescope scanned the skies for electromagnetic flashes and the sensitive CZTI instruments on AstroSat helped narrow down the location of the gamma-ray flashes. Similarly, HCT obtained optical images at locations of neutrinos detected by other telescopes at the same time as the burst and showed that they were unrelated to the gravitational-wave trigger, while GMRT played a crucial role in understanding jet physics and refining models of radio emissions from the remnant formed by the merging neutron stars. The development is significant considering it happens to be the strongest gravitational-wave signal detected so far, owing to its relatively close location of about 130 million light-years from Earth. The existence of gravitational waves was first predicted by Albert Einstein a century ago. They afford insight into an event that took place in a galaxy 120 million light years away and provide valuable information on the evolution of exploding neutron stars, as well as the origin of gold, uranium and other heavy metals on earth. It was also confirmed by a large number of telescopes around the world which studied various forms of radiation from the merger. "This is a new milestone in the success saga of advanced gravitational wave detectors, which have announced the discoveries of four black hole mergers to date. The first such detection in 2015 led to the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Physics this year," said the IIT-B statement. Neutron stars are the smallest, densest stars known to exist and are formed when massive stars explode in supernovas. Typical neutron stars are heavier than the sun, but have a diameter of just about 20 kilometers: objects so dense that a teaspoon of neutron star material weighs more than Mount Everest. Xtandi is a life-prolonging cancer drug and sells at about Rs 2.7 lakh for a months course in India thats for four tablets daily. It works for patients with stage-four prostate cancer who have exhausted their drug options and also cannot be treated with castration. The prostate is among the top 10 sites of cancer in the Indian population and prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men worldwide. Amid fresh allegations levelled against him regarding his business dealings by a television news channel, Congress President Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra, who is yet to issue an official statement, posted a message on Facebook saying he believes in himself. In 2015, Justin Trudeau made every India girl go weak in their knees, when he appeared in a white kurta-pyjama, dancing to the tunes of a Punjabi song. Since then, he has been making everyone go gaga over with his impeccable style and today is no different. On Monday, the Canadian Prime Minister celebrated Diwali with Indian community in Ottawa in an elegant black achkan, with white embroidery on it. India High Commissioner Vikas Swarup was also present at the celebration. This is not the first time Trudeau has dressed in a 'desi attire'. The implausibly good looking Prime Minister has been unleashing his inner desi man since 2012. Justin Trudeau with Indian High Commissioner Vikas Swarup. Photo: Twitter ( @Justin Trudeau) In August, while attending the India Day parade, Trudeau looked dapper in purple Indian traditional kurta and pyjama. Meanwhile in July, Trudeau wore a traditional green-coloured kurta and pyjama with a garland of flower draped around his neck, while celebrating the 10th anniversary of the BAPS (Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. Photo: Twitter (@JustinTrudeau) In June, he took part in Toronto's Pride parade by wearing socks that carried a subtler political message. The socks read, "Eid Mubarak," honouring the religious holiday that marks the end of Ramzan. In 2015, Trudeau donned a shalwar kameez at a mosque surfaced, sending all the desi ladies in a frenzy. The festival of Diwali marks the return of Hindu Lord Rama to Ayodhya city in northern India after he defeated Ravana - the powerful demon king of Lanka - to rescue his wife Sita. On Diwali, people light fireworks and illuminate their houses with different types of lights. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 19 across India. Prime Minister on Monday dared the Congress to contest the Gujarat Assembly election on the development plank while addressing a massive rally in what is likely to be his last speech at a big public rally before the Election Commissions model code of conduct kicks in. A journalist who led the Panama Papers probe into corruption in Malta was killed on Monday in a car bomb near her residence, the media reported. Daphne Caruana Galizia died on Monday when her car, a Peugeot 108, was destroyed by a powerful explosive device, reports the Guardian. A blogger whose posts often attracted more readers than the combined circulation of the country's newspapers, Caruana Galizia was recently described by the American news outlet Politico as a "one-woman WikiLeaks". Her latest revelations accused Malta's Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and two of his closest aides, connecting offshore companies linked to the three men with the sale of Maltese passports and payments from the government of Azerbaijan. No group or individual claimed responsibility for the attack, the Guardian reported. Malta's President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, called for calm. "In these moments, when the country is shocked by such a vicious attack, I call on everyone to measure their words, to not pass judgement and to show solidarity." In a statement, Muscat condemned the "barbaric attack". "Everyone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine," said Muscat, adding "Both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way." He announced in parliament later on Monday that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) officers were on their way to Malta to assist with the investigation, following his request for help from the US government. According to local media reports, Caruana Galizia filed a police report 15 days ago to say that she had been receiving death threats. The journalist posted her final blog on her Running Commentary website at 2.35 p.m. on Monday, and the explosion, which occurred near her home, was reported to police just after 3 p.m. Over the last two years, her reporting had largely focused on revelations from the Panama Papers, a cache of 11.5 million documents leaked from the internal database of the world's fourth largest offshore law firm, Mossack Fonseca. Till date 13 patients have lost their lives allegedly after being affected by and 468 patients have been admitted to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital here, a senior official said. "If we see the records, everyday four to five patients are coming. Nine patients are in critical condition. A committee of doctors was called to look into the matter and we are following their instructions. I would request all the farmers to wash their hands thoroughly after using the pesticides," Manish Shrigiriwar, Dean of (Government Medical College, Yavatmal) told media here. He added that two patients are on ventilators. Minister of State (MoS) for Home Hansraj Ahir, who visited the GMC hospital on Saturday, took stock of the treatment being administered to patients. Meanwhile, district unit of Congress has proposed to take out a protest rally to the Collector's office under the leadership of All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary in-charge of Maharashtra Mohan Prakash and Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Ashok Chavan. The party is demanding Rs. 10 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased and financial assistance to the affected families immediately. (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.) Prime Minister on Monday excoriated the Congress and the Nehru-Gandhi family, accusing it of disliking and Gujaratis who were an "eyesore" for them and lowering the standard of politics. The Rashtrapati Bhavan is a sign of slavery and not destroying it is political impotency, said Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan on Monday as he threw his hat into the heated war of words over monuments and how they fit into India's history. Delhiites can now take a call on shutting neighbourhood liquor shops if they create a nuisance in their areas by voting them out, the AAP government said today. In August last year, the government had announced that people would be empowered to shut existing neighbourhood vends if there were complaints of "nuisance". In a statement, the Delhi government said that in a first, two liquor shops were voted for closure on October 16 in Rohini. "Liquor shops, including those running legally, will face the public scrutiny if there are any problems to the residents of the area. The residents will now be free to approach their respective MLAs and district administration with their complaints against such liquor vends," the statement said. It stated that thereafter, the MLA in coordination with the administration would call a meeting of the residents, RWAs and decide on the future of the liquor shop through a voting and hearing. "Once the voting process and hearing is done, the local police and department of excise will submit a report for the closure of the particular shop," an official said. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had last year said the process to decide on shutting a shop would be initiated once 10% voters of a 'mohalla sabha' submit a written complaint. Slamming the Maharashtra State Road Transport (MSRTC) employees for going on a strike over their demand for salary hike, state Transport minister Diwakar Raote today said implementing the for these employees is not possible for the next 25 years. "MSRTC will not be in a position to implement the 7th Pay Commission for another 25 years. In his meeting with the union members, the CM has clearly said that it is not possible even for the government employees so how can we do it for them," Raote said. He added that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has offered to resolve the matter through talks and also asked the union to formulate a committee to resolve their issues. "The CM will personally see what can be done for them once the committee comes to a conclusion," he said. "The government is not in a position to accept their demands because a lot of money is being spent on farmers. They should not hold people to ransom during Diwali time just to get their demands fulfilled," he said. Employees of the MSRTC began an indefinite strike from midnight of Monday. Their main demand is implementation of 7th pay commission. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Dhananjay Munde questioned if Raote wants to resolve the issue or make matters worse by his comments. "At a time when lakhs of commuters are held ransom, Raote makes comments which raises the question whether he wants an amicable solution or wants to add oil to the fire?" he said. Munde met Fadnavis earlier in the day and urged him to hold talks with union members and come to a amicable solution at the earliest. "The MSRTC employees have been pressing for this demand for years, but the government never paid attention to them and today they had no other option but to go on a strike. Had they been heard on time, people would not have had to suffer today," the NCP leader said. More than 65 lakh passengers travel by ST buses across the state everyday. The MSRTC runs 18,000 buses, some of which go to far-flung areas not connected by rail network. The transport undertaking incurs a loss of Rs 450 crore per year. Days after the Congress party demanded a probe into the business dealings of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah's son, the BJP hit back asking the Congress to explain the dealings between fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari and Congress President Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra. With Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) becoming the first investor in the (NIIF), monetisation of infrastructure projects, especially in the highway sector, is likely to gain pace. Electricity generator Mahagenco on Tuesday said the coal stock situation is improving in Maharashtra as the companies supplying the fuel to it have overcome the monsoon calamities. Since September, due to untimely rains and shortage of coal stock with Mahagenco, the power production declined resulting in state distribution company Mahadiscom resorting to load shedding for almost 8-10 hours. "Since last 10 days, the and thereby coal stock situation our thermal plants is improving day-by-day. In comparison with first seven days of this month, average supply of 18 to 20 coal rakes, which has improved to 22 to 25 rakes per day between October 7-17, as the coal companies have nearly overcome the monsoon calamities," Mahagenco said in a statement. It said the situation improved especially after a high level joint meeting chaired by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis with officials from Mahagenco, Coal India and India Railways. "On an average we are receiving 25 rakes since the last 10 days. In addition to this we are obtaining daily about average 10,000-12,000 tonnes of coal by road transport to cope with increasing demand," it said. Through these measures, Mahagenco is in a position to increase its power generation by 800-1000 MW per day in comparison with that in previous month. "We believe there will be continual trend of such improvement in coal supply, so as to maintain adequate coal stock at its thermal plants as per guidelines of the Central Electricity Authority," Mahagenco said. Load shedding had started in Maharashtra in September due to coal shortage in thermal plants supplying power to Mahadiscom. It is that time of the year when people flock to buy gold. Dhanteras, an amalgamation of Sanskrit words dhan, that stands for wealth, and teras that refers to the 13th day of the Hindu calendar, is marked by praying to goddess Lakshmi and the purchase of gold objects. To cater to the ritual of shopping on Dhanteras, various online websites have come up with attractive offers on gold, silver and other metals for the Diwali Sale season. From the option of buying gold for Re 1 to getting massive discounts on branded jewellery, the online shopping world is full of best deals for Dhanteras celebrations. With Gujarat polls around the corner and the Congress giving neck-to-neck competition to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, on Monday, announced farm loans of up to Rs 3 lakh at zero per cent interest. Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare visited the Research & Development facility of HLLL, an undertaking of the Health Ministry at AKKULAM, Trivandrum to review the innovative and useful research being undertaken by the HLL to meet the demand of health sector in the country so as to provide better health care to the people. He was apprised of the various stages of research being undertaken and the impact of the same in securing effective, affordable and accessible health care. . . The Health Minister also attended the Padh Yatra at Sreekariyam organized by public spirited citizens with a view to emphasizing the importance of the safety and security of citizen in the country and the role of Government in securing the same. . . The first ever All India Institute of Ayurveda dedicated to the Nation by the Prime Minister on Ayurveda Day at New Delhi Government working towards establishing an Ayurveda hospital in every district The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today dedicated the All India Institute of Ayurveda, in New Delhi, to the Nation. The first ever All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) is set up along the lines of AIIMS. As an apex institute under the Ministry of AYUSH, the AIIA will bring synergy between the traditional wisdom of Ayurveda and modern diagnostic tools and technology. Minister of State for AYUSH (Independent Charge) Shri Shripad Naik was also present on this occasion. Speaking on this occasion, the Prime Minister congratulated the gathering on the celebration of Dhanvantari Jayanti as Ayurveda Divas. He complimented the Ministry of AYUSH for the establishment of the All India Institute of Ayurveda. The Prime Minister asserted that nations cannot progress unless they value and cherish their history and heritage. Those nations who leave their heritage behind, are destined to lose their identity, he added. The Prime Minister said that when India was not independent, its knowledge, and its traditions such as Yoga and Ayurveda were belittled. The Prime Minister said that the Government is working towards establishing an Ayurveda hospital in every district of the country. He said that more than 65 AYUSH hospitals have been developed in the last three years. In his welcome address, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik announced that the Government, with the active participation of the private sector will endeavour for a three-fold increase in Ayurveda facilities in next five years. The Minister said, India will celebrate her 75th Independence Day in 2022, on this occasion we are endeavouring for a three-fold increase in Ayurveda facilities in next five years." Shri Naik further added that massive investment is needed to achieve this target. So, the government is also encouraging the private sector to invest in the field of Ayurveda. He appealed to practitioners, students and followers of Ayurveda, to take benefit of programs like Skill India, Digital India, Swastha Bharat-Swaccha Bharat and Start-up India, to fulfill the dream of Ayushman Bharat. The minister informed the gathering about the steps taken by his ministry to promote Ayurveda and other alternative systems of medicine. He said that in the past two years peoples interest and faith in Ayurveda has increased manifolds. The number of Ayurveda hospitals is increasing even in the private sector. The Ministry has published an Ayurveda standard guideline to standardize medicines and treatments in this ancient therapy system. The Pharmacopeia Commission of Indian medicine is working for the standardization of medicines. Shri Naik said that to popularize the Indian systems of medicine the world over, the Ministry has opened Ayush Information Cells in 29 countries. Ayurveda chairs have also been established in a number of countries. The Ministry has signed an MOU with the National Health Organization of USA for development of Ayurveda and Yoga. On this occasion, The Prime Minister released the Ayurvedic Standard Treatment Guidelines". These guidelines were developed by the Ministry of AYUSH. The Prime Minister also gave away the Yoga Award to the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute, Pune, which was announced earlier this year on the occasion of International Day of Yoga. The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) has been set up with a total campus area of 10.015 acres with a budget of Rs.157 Crore. It has an NABH Accredited Hospital and an Academic Block. Out Patient Services are being provided in the hospital block of the AIIA and medicines are given free of cost. Currently clinical specialties running in the hospital block are Neurological & Degenerative Disease Care Unit, Rheumatology & Musculoskeletal Care Unit, Diabetes & Metabolic/Allergic Disorders Care Unit, Yoga, Panchakarma Clinic, Kriya Kalpa, Diabetic Retinopathy Clinic, Kshara Evum Anushastra Karma and Infertility Clinic. It also has pathology, biochemistry, microbiology and radiology laboratories/diagnosis facilities. The indoor patient department has provision for 200 beds. The Ministry of AYUSH has requested All State Governments, State AYUSH Directorates, all Ayurveda colleges/ teaching institutions, AYUSH/Health Universities, Associations of Ayurveda Practitioners, Ayurveda Drug Industries and all supporters/ well-wishers and stakeholders of Ayurveda in India and abroad, to observe Ayurveda Day on 17th October, 2017 year and undertake various activities such as organizing public lectures / seminars / exhibitions / radio talks etc., as a part of the Ayurveda Day celebrations. The first Ayurveda Day was celebrated last year. SE agreed on Tuesday to buy a majority stake in Bombardier Inc's CSeries jetliner program, grabbing control of a struggling competitor at the second attempt and giving the Canadian plane-and-train-maker an unexpected boost in its costly trade dispute with Boeing Co. The deal, which would come at no cost for Toulouse, France-based Airbus, would give the European planemaker a 50.01 percent interest in CSeries Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP), which manufactures and sells the jets, the said. While Bombardier will lose control of a plane program developed at a cost of $6 billion, it gives the CSeries improved economies of scale and a better sales network. The 110-to-130 seat plane has not secured a new order in 18 months and is being threatened by a possible 300 per cent duty on US imports. Bombardier said the partnership should more than double the value of the CSeries program. "Bombardier no longer has control of this jet, but then again, it's better to have a 30 percent share of a very successful program than to struggle with a highly risky program that was perhaps too big for them from the start," said aerospace analyst Richard Aboulafia. Canadian Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains, who must decide whether to approve the deal, said in a statement that "on the surface, Bombardier's new proposed partnership ... would help position the CSeries for success". STRATEGIC DECISION Chief Executive Tom Enders said the company has offered to assemble some of the narrowbody jets at its U.S. plant in Alabama for orders by American carriers. The U.S. assembly line would mean the jets would not be subject to possible US anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duties of 300 percent, Bombardier Chief Executive Alain Bellemare said on a media conference call. Bellemare called the deal with Airbus, which was first attempted unsuccessfully in 2015, a "strategic" decision that is expected to close in the second half of 2018. "We're doing this deal here not because of this Boeing petition. We are doing this deal because it is the right strategic move for Bombardier," Bellemare said, referring to Boeing's complaint that the Canadian firm received illegal subsidies and dumped CSeries planes at "absurdly low" prices. A Boeing spokesman dismissed the agreement as a "questionable deal between two state-subsidized competitors" to try to skirt a recent U.S. trade finding against the CSeries. In February, the Canadian government announced C$372.5 million ($297 million) in repayable loans for the CSeries and another Bombardier jet program. The investment does not place any more financial burdens on Ottawa, two sources close to the case said on Monday. The sources, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to media, also said the deal would have no effect on a separate dispute between Canada and Boeing over a proposed purchase of 18 Super Hornet jets. The government has frozen contacts with Boeing's military wing until the company drops its challenge against the CSeries. Bombardier said the deal would not result in job losses and would keep the head office in Montreal. Unions said the deal would benefit the program. "Ultimately, the U.S. actions have created a stronger Bombardier," said Jerry Dias, president of Unifor, which represents some of Bombardier's unionized workers in Canada. The Boeing-Bombardier dispute has snowballed into a bigger multilateral trade dispute, with British Prime Minister Theresa May asking U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene in order to save British jobs. Bombardier is the largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland, which is the poorest of the United Kingdom's four constituent parts and remains mired in political sensitivities after emerging from decades of armed sectarian conflict. BOOST FOR BELFAST On Monday, the leader of the Northern Irish party propping up Britain's minority government said the Airbus was "incredibly significant news" for Belfast. Talks for the deal between Airbus and Bombardier first started in August. Enders said the deal was different from an earlier round of talks in 2015, when he abruptly ordered an end to negotiations. He said the CSeries' has since been certified, entered service and was performing well. "It's an entirely different situation," he said. Delta Air Lines Inc, which ordered 75 CSeries planes, said after the announcement that it looked forward to introducing the planes into its fleet. Under the deal, Bombardier will own about 31 percent, while Investissement Quebec, the investment arm of the province of Quebec, will hold 19 percent. In 2015, Quebec took a 49 percent stake in the CSeries program for $1 billion, although its stake was more recently diluted to 38 percent. Quebec's largest pension fund, which holds a 30 percent stake in Bombardier's rail division, said the decision strengthened the company and improved its growth prospects. Bombardier is in the middle of a five-year turnaround plan after considering bankruptcy because of a cash-crunch as it developed multiple plane programs simultaneously, including the CSeries. The deal also provides Airbus warrants exercisable to acquire up to 100 million Class B Shares of Bombardier. Airbus will provide procurement, sales and marketing, and customer support expertise to CSALP, the said. There will be no cash contribution by any of the partners, nor will CSALP assume any financial debt, they added. Bombardier expects a $400 million loss in commercial aircraft this year, but has set a breakeven target for 2020. President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued a warning shot after Republican Senator John McCain questioned "half-baked, spurious nationalism" in America's foreign policy. Trump said in a radio interview with WMAL in Washington that "people have to be careful because at some point I fight back." The president added "I'm being very, very nice but at some point I fight back and it won't be pretty." McCain, a former Navy pilot who spent 5 years in a Vietnam prisoner of war camp and is battling brain cancer, offered a simple response to Trump: "I have faced tougher adversaries." In Philadelphia last night, the six-term Republican senator from Arizona received an award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the country. In addition to recalling his more than two decades of military service and his imprisonment during the war, McCain took a moment to go a step further than the night's other speakers, who lamented what many described as a fractured political climate. "To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems," he said, "is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history." He continued: "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil." Former Vice President Joe Biden presented McCain with the Liberty Medal. Though members of opposing parties, the two men worked together during their time in the Senate. Former President Barack Obama, who defeated McCain in his bid for the presidency in 2008, congratulated the senator on the award in a tweet last night. "I'm grateful to @SenJohnMcCain for his lifetime of service to our country. Congratulations, John, on receiving this year's Liberty Medal," Obama wrote. I'm grateful to @SenJohnMcCain for his lifetime of service to our country. Congratulations, John, on receiving this year's Liberty Medal. Barack Obama (@BarackObama) October 16, 2017 Pressed on Trump's threat today, McCain told reporters he has had tougher fights, and then smiled. Trump said in the radio interview that McCain voted against Republican efforts to dismantle Barack Obama's Affordable Care Act. He says the vote was a "shocker." McCain and Trump have long been at odds. During the campaign, Trump suggested McCain was not a war hero because he was captured in Vietnam. Donald Trump hasnt definitively killed the Iran nuclear agreement but he has lit the fuse that might blow it up eventually. Standing in the diplomatic room of the White House on October 13, he said that he could no longer certify Iranian compliance with the 2015 deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Iran, he said, is not living up to the spirit of the agreement. regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has said a mutual fund house can have only one scheme per category. The move will impact a number of fund houses, particularly the larger ones that operate as many as a dozen schemes in some categories. Anthony Serhan, managing director, research strategy, Asia-Pacific at Morningstar, says the new rule is harsh. In an interview to Samie Modak, Australia-based Serhan, an expert on investment themes and trends, says Indias mutual fund industry has a lot of potential to grow. Edited excerpts: Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Tuesday announced the implementation of 7th Pay Commission recommendations for the state government employees. Rajasthan government employees will get salary hike and revised allowances under the 7th Pay Commission. The 7th pay commission recommendations which will be implemented from October will benefit more than 12 lakh state government employees and pensioners. "I announced to implement 7th Pay Commission's recommendations while presenting the 2017-18 budget. I am glad that this is being implemented by October," the Chief Minister said in a statement. The Chief Minister also extended greetings to the state employees and the nation on the occasion of Dhanteras, while wishing for atmosphere of harmony and prosperity across the nation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Countering Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remark that the upcoming assembly elections in Gujarat was a fight between development and dynasty, Congress on Monday said the changing wave in the state has left the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) baffled. "Such statements from Prime Minister Narendra Modi are a result as Rahul Gandhi's visit to Gujarat has baffled the the Bharatiya Janta Party. These statements are an outcome of the wave in Gujarat that has changed in favour of Congress. People of Gujarat would vote based on governance of the last five years," Congress leader Sachin Pilot told ANI. Pilot further said that he accepts all the challenges of the BJP and exuded confidence Congress would win Guajrat with a majority. "I believe that such issues would surface as the elections approach, but the people of this country know the reality and the history. BJP is not analysing themselves, but blaming the Congress in spite of being in power since four years and the Prime Minister being from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), it means the BJP leaders are nervous" Addressing a rally in Gandhinagar earlier in the day, Modi launched a scathing attack on the Congress party saying that it has lowered the standard of politics. "The Congress has lied to India. It has never focused on service. The Congress has lowered standard of politics. The Congress does not have the guts to fight on the plank of development. They have always fought on communal issues. When nothing worked for Congress, they started abusing development," Modi had said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau celebrated the Hindu festival of lights -Diwali -- with the Indian Community in Ottawa on Monday. Atttired in a black Sherwani, Trudeau lit the ceremonial lamp and wished the Indian Diaspora a happy Diwali. Indian High Commissioner to Canada Vikas Swarup was also present on the occasion. "Diwali Mubarak! We're celebrating in Ottawa tonight. #HappyDiwali!," Trudeau tweeted. Last month, Canada Post and India Post had jointly issued two stamps to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Diwali, which is celebrated with great fervour and gaiety across India, marks the return Lord Ram, the King of Ayodhya in northern India, after his victory over demon king Ravana in distant Lanka, as well as the culmination of his 14-year-long exile. Lord Ram is widely regarded as the reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. Diwali is also celebrated to honour the Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth and prosperity and consort of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the Goddess Lakshmi blesses those homes that are clean and well lit. On Diwali people illuminate their houses with coloured lights and earthen lamps. Known for embracing cultural and religious diversity, Prime Minister Trudeau had also recently celebrated and greeted the Muslim population in his country on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr in June this year. He was wearing a pair of socks with text reading "Eid Mubarak," written on it, honouring the religious day that marked the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A car bomb on Monday killed the journalist who led the Panama Papers investigation here. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, died on Monday afternoon when her car, a Peugeot 108, was destroyed by a powerful explosive device which blew the vehicle into several pieces and threw the debris into a nearby field, reports The Guardian. The reporter had filed a complaint to police a fortnight ago after receiving personal threats to her safety, local media said. She was known for her work as an investigative journalist and revealing controversial sensitive information, including reports and allegations related to the Panama Papers. A blogger whose posts often attracted more readers than the combined circulation of the country's newspapers, Caruana Galizia was recently described by the Politico website as a "one-woman WikiLeaks". Her blogs were a thorn in the side of both the establishment and underworld figures that hold sway in Europe's smallest member state. Her most recent revelations pointed the finger at Malta's Prime Minister, Joseph Muscat, and two of his closest aides, connecting offshore companies linked to the three men with the sale of Maltese passports and payments from the government of Azerbaijan, reports The Guardian. No group or individual has come forward to claim responsibility for the attack. In a statement, Muscat condemned the "barbaric attack", saying he had asked police to reach out to other countries' security services for help identifying the perpetrators. "Everyone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine," said Muscat at a hastily convened press conference, "both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way". In a tweet, Muscat said, "This is a spiteful attack on a citizen and freedom of expression. I will not rest until justice is done. The country deserves justice." This is a spiteful attack on a citizen and freedom of expression. I will not rest until justice is done. The country deserves justice -JM Joseph Muscat (@JosephMuscat_JM) October 16, 2017 Muscat announced later in parliament that FBI officers were on their way to Malta to assist with the investigation, following his request for outside help from the US government. The Nationalist party leader, Adrian Delia - himself the subject of negative stories by Caruana Galizia - claimed the killing was linked to her reporting. The Panama Papers are 11.5 million leaked documents that detail financial and attorney-client information for more than 214,488 offshore entities. The documents, some dating back to the 1970s, were created by, and taken from, Panamanian law firm and corporate service provider Mossack Fonseca, and were leaked in 2015 by an anonymous source. The revelations by the Panama Papers have shaken politics of many countries. In a case related with the Panama Papers, former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had to step down in July after the Supreme Court disqualified him. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A federal court in Hawaii on Tuesday blocked President Donald Trump's revised travel ban, a day before it was set to take effect. This is in the series of legal setbacks for the president's immigration agenda. After courts rejected his earlier attempts to impose sweeping restrictions on refugees and travellers from majority-Muslims countries, Trump in September unveiled a new executive order indefinitely banning travellers from Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Chad, and North Korea. Judge Derrick Watson said the travel ban -- Trump's third version of the policy -- "plainly discriminates based on nationality", reports CNN. The CNN quoted Watson as saying in his order that "The President's executive order suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the entry of more than 150 million nationals from six specified countries would be 'detrimental to the interests of the United States". Executive Order 13769, titled Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States, commonly known as the travel ban, was an executive order issued by Trump. Immediately, there were numerous protests and legal challenges, with some calling it a "Muslim ban" due to the fact that six of the affected countries had a Muslim majority. Giving the Indo-Russian defence cooperation a major boost, Exercise INDRA-2017, the first ever Tri Services Joint Exercise between Indian and Russian Armed Forces will be conducted in the Eastern Military District of Russia from October 19 to 29. Exercise INDRA, in its previous nine avatars, has been conducted as a single service exercise alternately between the two countries. The year 2017 marks a major milestone as this Exercise has been upgraded to involve all the three Services of the Armed Forces (Army, Navy and Air Force), which further accentuates the importance of Joint Services in the present world environment. Exercise INDRA-2017 will be conducted at the 249th Combined Army Range Sergeevisky and in the Sea of Japan near Vladivostok. The Indian contingent will comprise of 350 personnel from Army, 80 from Air Force, two IL 76 aircraft and one Frigate and Corvette each from the Navy. The Russian Federation Armed Forces will be represented by approximately 1000 troops of the 5th Army, Marines and Ships of Pacific Fleet and aircraft from Eastern Military District. Addressing the Indian Contingent today, Lt Gen Satish Dua, UYSM, SM, VSM, CISC reminded them of the importance of the upcoming exercise which will provide an opportunity to the armed forces of both countries to train in counter terrorism operations in a multinational scenario in a joint tri service environment. The scope of the exercise includes professional interactions, establishment of joint command and control structures between the Indian and Russian forces and elimination of terrorist threat in a multinational environment under the United Nations mandate. Exercise INDRA-2017 will strengthen mutual confidence, inter-operability and enable sharing of best practices between both the armed forces. It will be a landmark event in the history of Indo-Russian defence cooperation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Expressing discontent over firecrackers ban in Diwali in the capital, Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy on Tuesday questioned as to why there is no ban on the use of loudspeakers to broadcast Azaan to check noise pollution. Hitting out at certain secular groups for adopting double standard and resorting to vote bank politics Tripura Governor said that if the firecrackers have been banned to check noise pollution then why there is no prohibition on Azaan being broadcasted through loudspeaker. "The so called secular crowd rundown the noise pollution caused by crackers saying that it harms the heart patient and therefore these things should be banned. They don't see the same things about the Azaan that broadcast over loudspeakers around 4.30 in the morning. Why this double standard? I feel very sad about this but the reason is vote bank politics," Roy told ANI. Earlier in the day, the Tripura Governor took to his Twitter saying that so called secular group pitch for firecrackers ban but never talk about ban on Azaan broadcast to garner vote of a particular community. "Every Diwali fights start over noise pollution from crackers. A few days in a year. But no fight about Azaan over loudspeakers at 4.30 AM! Either 'secular crowd' themselves dabbled in vote-bank politics or their patrons do and they have it in their mind when they talk of banning crackers, but they don't talk about banning the Azaan over loudspeakers," he said in a tweet. He further said that Islam doesn't enjoin that Azaan should be broadcast over loudspeakers. "There are minarets around mosques and the Muezzin is supposed to go up on minarets and shout the Azaan. He is not supposed to use loudspeakers. At the time of Prophets of Islam there was no loudspeaker. Therefore loudspeaker should not be used but still they are being used and nobody says anything about it," he added. Earlier also, Roy had raised his voice against the ban on firecrackers and said he was not happy with the prohibition. "As a Hindu, I am unhappy with the decision of the court, as Diwali is an all India festival and probably, the most important Hindu festival, and bursting crackers is a part of it," Roy had said. The Supreme Court had on October 9 imposed a blanket ban on sale of firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR in the run-up to Diwali to check the alarming pollution level. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) House of former sarpanch Ramzan Sheikh of Imam Sahib village, who was killed by terrorists yesterday, was set on fire by mobs today in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district. The family was rescued by the police. An investigation is underway. Earlier on Monday, three terrorists killed Sheikh amid a scuffle, the police said. Sheikh was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. "Three terrorists fired and killed ex sarpanch Ramzan Sheikh in Shopian. In scuffle a terrorist Shaukat also got killed," Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) S.P. Vaid tweeted. Earlier this month, another former sarpanch, Ghulam Rasool Ganie was shot dead by terrorists in Mattan area of south Kashmir's Anantnag. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Franchise owner Rohit Murthy of AKB Group is all set to re-create Haagen-Dazs magic in Goa on the auspicious occasion of "National Dessert Day" by launching its first Haagen-Dazs premium Ice Cream Lounge with spirits in Calangute, next to Domino's Pizza. After, their successful openings in Indiranagar, Phoenix Mall and Forum Mall Franchise Owner Rohit Murthy of AKB Group thought said, "With Goa being most visited tourist place and well known for its exotic beaches and its efficacious nightlife becoming a premium destination. Haagen-Dazs is all set to make in vogue to indulgence experience in Calangute." The Chief Guest were Manohar Azgaonkar - Tourism Minister of Goa, Guests of Honor Michael Lobo - Deputy speaker Goa Legislative Assembly, Chairman of NGPDA and Salil Murthy- Country Head for General Mills India. Special Invitees were: Anthony Menezes Sarpanch and Rupa Chanu Chodankar Deputy Sarpanch and Members of V. P. Calangute, Fr. Cipriano da Silva (Parish Priest of St. Alex Church) Jivba. G. Dalvi (Police Inspector Calangute) "The discerning tourists in Goa are well-travelled, knowledgeable and yearning for super premium brands. Our Foray into this dynamic market will enable us fulfill the appetite of growing section of consumers seeking a gourmet dessert experience with spirits. With this launch, we continue our journey of giving the Indian consumer an insight into opulent dessert experience of delectable ice cream flavors and spirits creations by Haagen-Dazs," said Salil Murthy, Country Head, General Mills India. For more than 50 years, Haagen-Dazs passion for crafting the perfect flavor's and creamiest textures using only the finest ingredients is what has set the Haagen-Dazs brand apart. They never wavered on the principals that made them who they are from the very beginning. Today, the Haagen-Dazs brand continues to transform the finest ingredients into extraordinary experience bite by bite. The Haagen-Dazs not only offers a variety of choices but also a combination of mouth watering flavors and authentic ingredients to aphrodisiac with the most indulgent and impeccable dessert impression. Its menu is a magnificent is an interfusion of scrumptious creations like Eiffel Tower, European Fondue, Brooklyn Bridge and indulgent flavors like the signature Belgian Chocolate, Cookies and Cream, Mango and Raspberry and Dulce de Leche. Haagen-Dazs uses only the finest and purest ingredient in its ice cream, like the chocolate is from Ivory Coast and the Macadamia nuts come from the world's best growing region. The most unbelievable thing about Haagen-Dazs is that it contains no artificial preservatives or stabilizers neither the flavors, colors or additives are artificial. Haagen- Dazs also produces one of the creamiest ice-creams by limiting the amount of air that is whipped into the product. This is what allows creamy taste to linger. The carefully controlled manufacturing process ensures the rich smooth texture for which it is famous all over the world. Haagen-Dazs known for its super premium Ice creams has announced the launch of its flagship lounge at Calangute in Goa. After winning the hearts of ice- cream connoisseurs in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad, now it is the time for the city of joy, Goa to savour Haagen-Dazs ice-creams. And, it promises to be more delectable and indulgent than ever. Goa, one of the most visited tourist places in India, known for its famous beaches and bustling nighlife is transforming into a preferred destination for premium brands. Situated at Calangute, Haagen-Dazs will make way for a tranquil setting exclusive to a lavish dessert experience. A one of a kind dessert dining place, the Haagen-Dazs lounge is tailor-made for you to sit back, relax and savor a sumptuous dessert; the lounge is truly an expression of superlative international ambience. The lounge has a distinctively contemporary decor with pleasing to the eye interiors. The Haagen-Dazs menu offers a variety of choices, a combination of tantalizing flavors and authentic ingredients to tender with the most indulgent and ultimate dessert impression. Its menu is magnificent amalgamation of scrumptious creations like Eiffel Tower, European Fondue, Brooklyn Bridge and indulgent flavours like the Belgian Chocolate, Cookies and Cream, Mango and Raspberry, Dulce de Leche. Every Haagen-Dazs ice cream variety contains only the finest ingredients. Haagen-Dazs uses only the finest and purest ingredients in its ice creams. For instance, the chocolate is from Ivory Coast, and the Macadamia nuts come from the world's best growing regions. What is left out of Haagen-Dazs are artificial preservatives or stabilizers. It contains no artificial flavours, colors or additives. Haagen- Dazs also produces one of the creamiest ice-creams by limiting the amount of air that is whipped into the product. This is what allows creamy taste to linger. The carefully controlled manufacturing process ensures the rich smooth texture for which Haagen-Dazs is famous the world over. In India, Haagen- Dazs lounges are also located at Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Canadian man who was rescued from the Haqqani Network earlier this week, said he thought his captors were joking when they told him that Donald Trump had become U.S. president. The Hill quoted Joshua Boyle as saying that one of the captors had said that Trump was elected president before he was forced to film a "proof-of-life" video. "It didn't enter my mind that he was being serious," Boyle said. Joshua Boyle, his American wife, Caitlan Coleman and their three children, were freed on Thursday in a joint operation carried out by Pakistani forces based on intelligence from American authorities. The couple was held for five years by the Haqqani Network in Afghanistan. Their three children were born during their captivity. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan, who is currently on a visit to Japan, has said that both governments have taken their discussions of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) technologies in inland water and coastal shipping forward. He also said that new developments in global LNG business were also taken up. Pradhan tweeted, "Discussed technologies of using LNG in inland water and coastal shipping and new developments in global LNG business." "Received senior delg from Mitsui OSK Lines,one of largest shipping line in LNG business with deep links with Indian LNG companies & SCI," he further tweeted. The visit is important to enhance bilateral engagements in the oil and gas sectors within the overall framework of the India-Japan Energy Dialogue. The visit is also aimed at enhancing cooperation in establishing a transparent, efficient, truly global and balanced LNG market. The LNG Producer-Consumer Conference is a global annual dialogue to promote active dialogue among LNG producers, consumers and other stakeholders with a view to deepening shared understandings of market trends and to develop a global LNG market. The conference provided the right opportunity to brief participants on the Indian gas sector and the recent policy reforms. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The biggest global event in adolescent health - The World Congress on Adolescent Health - is coming to India. Held only once every four years, the International Association for Adolescent Health's 11th World Congress on Adolescent Health, 'Investing in Adolescent Health - the Future is Now' will be held in New Delhi, India from 27-29 October 2017. The world is home to 1.2 billion adolescents, and India has the largest population of adolescents in the world - 253 million. This demographic makes India a potent host for a global conference on this theme. According to Manoj Jhalani, Additional Secretary and Mission Director, MoHFW, "The National Health Mission guidelines on adolescent health are a step forward in ensuring a healthy, young India. The government of India is deeply committed to streamlining efforts to ensure comprehensive approaches to dealing with adolescent health. Through various programmes and initiatives, different aspects of adolescent health including nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, NCDs, mental health and more, are being addressed in tandem with each other, incorporating a much-needed life-course perspective into overcoming public health challenges." "With the largest number of adolescents in the world, India is being watched by the world with hope, and we must lead the way in setting examples through our commitment to securing the health of young India. The upcoming World Congress, therefore, could not have come at a better time for India," said Vandana Gurnani, Joint Secretary, MoHFW. Dr. Ajay Khera, Deputy Commissioner, MoHFW, says, "The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is very happy to support the '11th World Congress on Adolescent Health' being held by the International Association for Adolescent Health (IAAH). We are giving the highest priority to addressing adolescent health issues, and ensuring a healthy and bright future for our adolescents. Programmes like RKSK don't just address maternal and child health needs but also talk about the risks of non-communicable diseases and drug abuse, and the necessity of addressing mental health issues." The World Congress seeks to cover topical themes through discussions in sessions such as 'Global adolescent health: Opportunities and challenges', 'Programming for adolescent health in India: RKSK and beyond', 'Toward a gendered approach to adolescent health', 'Mental health and adolescents', 'Early Adolescent Health and Development in Low and Middle-Income Countries', 'Social Media, Sexting, Addiction, Oh My! Adolescent Health in the Digital Age', and more. There will also be debates on topics including the need for parents' consent in their child's clinical care or participation in health research; the role of brain imaging in adolescent care and health promotion; and on whether to promote condoms or contraceptives among adolescents. The conference - the first-of-its kind to be held in India - will see the participation of prominent global public health experts as well as policy makers including the likes of Dr. Sunil Mehra, Executive Director, MAMTA Health Institute for Mother and Child, Mental Health expert Prof. Vikram Patel from Harvard University, David Ross from the World Health Organization, Prof. Susan Sawyer, President of the International Association for Adolescent Health, Prof. Robert Blum from Johns Hopkins University, Ms. Suzanne Petroni of International Center for Research on Women, Kate Gilmore, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and many more. Globally, adolescence is demographically dense - a period which encapsulates tremendous change in relation to critical life events such as transitions from education to employment, and formation of families and parenting. Adolescence is also the period in which individuals experience the greatest change in health and health-related behaviors across their lifetime. Well recognized as a time of risk for health, increasingly adolescence is now recognized as a period of opportunity for health, in which individuals gain the assets and resources to sustain health across the life-course. The mortality of adolescents globally stands at astaggering 1.3 million deaths per year. Unintended injuries such as road traffic accidents and drowning are the leading causes of death among adolescents, together with self-harm, interpersonal violence, communicable diseases and teenage pregnancy. Tobacco, alcohol and other substance use contribute to health concerns among adolescents (e.g. injuries) and are associated with unemployment, accidents, depression and suicide during adolescence. Yet rather than being a passing phase, these behaviors and states risk reverberating across the life-course, contributing to the future burden of disease in adults and to that of the next generation. The agenda for Sustainable Development Goals 2030 and the new Global Strategy on Women's Children's and Adolescents' Health have brought adolescence to the centre-stage. These agendas recognize the opportunities and contribution of adolescence to achieving a wide array of global health priorities including improvements in communicable diseases (e.g. HIV) and non-communicable diseases, women's health, mental health, nutrition, and more. For example, over half of new HIV cases occur in adolescents, and more than two million adolescents are living with HIV. Addressing the global HIV epidemic - and other key global health agendas, will not be achieved without attending better to adolescent health and wellbeing. The World Congress is being organized under the supportive leadership of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. MAMTA Health Institute for Mother and Child (MAMTA) is the lead organisation that is hosting the World Congress with a consortium of partners including Pathfinder International, Population Foundation of India (PFI), Population Services International (PSI), and The YP Foundation. The World Congress also has scientific support from Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI), Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) and Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI). "Adolescents need to be at the centre of future investment in health and education for sustainable development," said Dr. Sunil Mehra, Executive Director, MAMTA Health Institute for Mother and Child. Professor Susan Sawyer, President, International Association for Adolescent Health, says, "This meeting couldn't be better timed, as never before has there been such global recognition of the importance of advancing the health and wellbeing of adolescents, including in India. IAAH is delighted that the 11th World Congress on Adolescent Health is in the country with the largest number of adolescents in the world. A groundswell of professionals, global partners and young people are coming to Delhi from all over the world to share ideas, evidence and actions to advance adolescent health. The world is looking towards India and we are confident this World Congress will deliver." The World Congress is anticipating around 800 international and national delegates including adolescent health experts from across the globe, academia, representatives from MoHFW - Government of India, national and global representatives of UN organizations, youth leaders from several countries including India who have made a difference in their communities, national and international NGOs, donor organizations, policy makers and corporates. It is key to align the interests of the most important section of the population - the future agents of change - with the Government's vision of 'New India'. It is only by investing in the young people of today that we can safeguard the future as the future wealth of nations requires young people to be educated, empowered and healthy. The World Congress will be an ideal platform for networking with global public health practitioners, share learnings from global case studies and successful interventions in adolescent health and policies, and an opportunity to track global policy developments and policy effectiveness in adolescent health. There will be a strong focus on gender norms and human rights. The World Congress will also conduct Skill Development Workshops on 26th October with participants from around the world. The media is invited to attend all the sessions at the World Congress. An invitation with the detailed agenda of the World Congress will be shared soon. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd. (MCX) launched India's first gold options contract on the occasion of Dhanteras. The commodity options trading with gold was unveiled by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, here in New Delhi. "It is a great beginning and I am sure this venture will be extremely useful and successful as far as the trade and the entire industry dealing in this subject (gold) is concerned," said Jaitley. Up until now, SEBI only allows futures contracts for hedging in commodities. The launch of MCX's Gold 1 Kg futures contracts hedges all risks for those dealing in gold by giving them options for the future, according to the Finance Minister. Jaitley also said that the government has been putting in consistent effort to formalize gold trade through policy formulation. "The more it formalizes itself, the better it is for the consumers, jewellers, and for those trading in this." Chairman, Economic Advisory Council, Bibek Debroy; Finance Secretary, Ashok Lavasa; and CEO, MCX, Mrugank M. Paranjape were also present for the event. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) 'Game of Thrones' star Kit Harington has recently revealed that he wouldn't want the American fantasy drama television to go on any longer after eighth season. The 'Gunpowder actor,' who plays the role of Jon Snow said that leaving the show will be 'liberating' as he's currently unable to work on other projects because of filming commitments. "It will be liberating, just the thought of having a whole year free - you shoot for six months, but half of the projects you might want to do will have started shooting before that six months is over," Harington told Digital Spy. The 30-year-old actor said that there are a lot of things he can't do, so he is looking forward the drama series to finish as eight years is the right amount of time. "I wouldn't want it to go on any longer than it has. I have other ideas I'd like to look at producing," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) There has been a new addition in the list of power couples in Hollywood. Hollywood actors Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander have officially tied the knot in a secret ceremony, according to People magazine. The pair said 'I do' over the weekend in Ibiza, where they were spotted enjoying with friends and family after arriving from Paris last week. The couple exchanged vows at the luxurious La Granja farmstead resort surrounded by all the loved ones, according to the sources. The actors met on the set of 'The Light Between Oceans' (2016), in which Vikander played Fassbender's wife. They made their red carpet debut at the Venice Film Festival for the film's premiere last year. While talking to the Vanity Fair, earlier this year, the moment they first met, Alicia recalled how she felt "terrified and very alone" when she first arrived on set, but was immediately put at ease by Michael. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tardeo Road Transport Office (RTO) on Monday issued notice to Bombay Municipal Corporation (BMC) over red beacon atop Mumbai Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar's official car. The Central Government banned red beacons atop cars of all ministers, politicians and bureaucrats from May 1 this year to end the V.I.P. (very important person) culture prevalent in India. The government had, however, exempted five dignitaries including- President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Chief Justice of India and the Lok Sabha Speaker from the ban. The ambulances and vehicles of the fire service, police, and army are also allowed to use blue flashing beacons to cut through traffic. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) North Korea has warned that a may break out at any time as the situation on the Korean peninsula has reached the "touch-and-go point". According to media reports, North Korea's deputy UN ambassador Kim In-ryong told the UN general assembly's disarmament committee that Pyongyang has the right to possess defense nuclear weapons. He said North Korea is the only country in the world that has been subjected to "such an extreme and direct nuclear threat" from the United States since the 1970s. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Sunday asserted that his diplomatic efforts to relax tensed relations with North Korea will continue "until the first bomb drops". Tillerson averred that United States President Donald Trump has instructed him to try and reduce stress between the two nations through diplomatic efforts. North Korea had recently called on its citizens to be ready for a nation-wide struggle against "war thirsty" US President Donald Trump and his "gangster-like moves for domination and aggression." "The US gangster-like moves for domination, subjugation, aggression and war are getting even more reckless and dangerous in the wake of the frenzy of war-thirsty (US President Donald) Trump who spat out the remarks of 'total destruction of North Korea' without hesitation," state-run KCNA agency quoted a spokesman for the National Peace Committee of North Korea as saying. The tension between the two nuclear power countries has intensified as North Korea continues to develop and threaten the use of its nuclear weapons. Trump, on the other hand, has issued sanctions to completely isolate Pyongyang if it continues to test its ballistic missiles. Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said that the nation's army chief has every right to discuss or comment on the economic situation. "If everyone is free to give their opinion on the economy, then why can't the army chief talk about the economy" The Express Tribune quoted Abbasi, as saying in an interview on Aaj Television. Pakistan's Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa had last week said the army was keenly watching developments in the country's economy and shared some of the apprehensions being voiced about it. Reacting to General Bajwa's remark, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) National Assembly Member Rana Afzal Khan said the army chief should comment on the economy only at the National Security Committee and not publicly. Abbasi's remarks comes at a time of simmering controversy stirred by a recent spat between Pakistan's Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal and the chief military spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor. According to reports, Ahsan had advised Major General Ghafoor to "refrain from commenting on the economy. as it could damage Pakistan's image globally" after the latter had said in a TV interview that "if the economy is not bad, it isn't good either". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed documents and testimony from Carter Page in connection with ongoing probe into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Quoting a source, the CNN reported that the Senate intelligence committee has issued a subpoena to former Donald Trump foreign policy adviser Carter Page. The subpoena was issued after Page told the committee last week he would plead the Fifth Amendment to keep from sending the "vast array" of documents the committee requested, which he argued was "beyond the charter" of the probe. Page had said he offered to testify publicly in response to the committee's request for a closed-door interview, reports CNN. Page has been demanding the government release information about his communications that were picked up during surveillance operations. He argues that he does not want to be caught in a "perjury trap" since the government has detailed records about his communications. Page served as a foreign policy adviser to then-candidate Trump's campaign and he has drawn scrutiny for meeting with the former Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the Republican National Convention last year. Meanwhile, the Senate Committee has also requested documents and testimony from Michael Flynn Jr., the son of former White House national security adviser Michael Flynn. According to NBC News, the committee is interested in Flynn's work with his father in Flynn Intel Group, the consulting firm Flynn Sr. founded after leaving government service. Flynn Sr., a main subject in the congressional and federal probes into Russian interference, was forced to resign from the Trump administration after 24 days over misleading Vice President Mike Pence about contacts Flynn had with Russian officials, the ABC News report said. The United States intelligence community believes that the Russian government was engaged in electoral interference during the 2016 U.S. presidential election. A January 2017 assessment by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) stated that Russian leadership preferred presidential candidate Donald Trump over Hillary Clinton, and that Russian President Vladimir Putin personally ordered an "influence campaign" to harm Clinton's electoral chances and "undermine public faith in the US democratic process." Several investigations about Russian influence on the election have been underway: a counter-intelligence investigation by the FBI, hearings by the Senate Intelligence Committee and the House Intelligence Committee, and inquiries about possible links and financial ties between the Kremlin and Trump associates. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Monday said the statement made by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Sangeet Som was his personal viewpoint. Earlier in the day, Som said that the iconic Taj Mahal was built by traitors and hence, cannot be included in the Indian history. Speaking to ANI, RSS ideologue Rakesh Sinha said, "It is his (Sangeet Som) viewpoint. The facts of history and all historical data should be seen with a historical perspective. There is a need for being cautious while having discourse on history." He further said the Mughals oppressed the Hindus in many ways but contributions made by them in terms of art and architecture should not be objected by anyone. Commenting on Som's remarks, Uttar Pradesh Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi said everyone has right to have own outlook on history as India is a democratic country. "In India, there is democracy and everyone has own perception about the history of India. Everyone has the right to comment, evaluate and have own point of view about the history of India," she told ANI. Joshi further said that as far as Taj Mahal is concerned, it is the heritage of India and holds huge importance. "The Taj Mahal has importance and visited by several people from all over the world. We have provided more than Rs. 1 lakh crore for the beautification of Taj Mahal. We have also chosen Agra for construction of Metro and included it in smart cities. It is obvious that such developmental processes are taking place because we consider Taj Mahal as our heritage," she added. Som, however, drew flak from Opposition parties for his remarks that he made during an event at the Sisoli village in Meerut district. While addressing a gathering, Som said, "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from the Uttar Pradesh tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? The creator of Taj Mahal (Shahjahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out Hindus. If these people are part of our history, then it is very sad and we will change this history." He remained adamant on his remarks and said he does not oppose the monument, but the Mughals who built it. Speaking to ANI, the BJP MLA said, "I don't oppose Taj Mahal as it's a beautiful heritage. I oppose Mughals who built it and how they've been portrayed in the Indian history." He further said that Mughals were not Indian but attackers who demolished temples. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Emphasising on the importance of timely treatment for Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs), medical experts urged for concrete steps to be taken in this direction. LSDs are approximately 50 genetic rare disorders which are caused due to enzyme deficiencies leading to the build-up of toxic substances in the body's cells. "Patients suffering from LSDs lead a very difficult life and their condition is often debilitating. These are usually chronic and progressive diseases and affect various parts of the body like bones and joints, brain, heart, skeleton etc. The positive side is that treatment is available for a select LSDs and has had a very good impact on the quality of life of a patient. However, getting timely treatment is the key here and leads to better long term results", said Dr. Indrani Suresh, Director, MediScan, Chennai. Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT) is the established treatment for LSDs and works by replacing the missing enzyme in the affected cells. Unfortunately, the treatment is expensive and hence, cannot be afforded by majority of the patients. Commenting on this, Dr. Sujatha Jagadeesh, HOD, Dept. of Clinical Genetics, MediScan, Chennai said, "Due to the unaffordability, a lot of patients get delayed or no treatment. The lack of timely and appropriate treatment hampers the daily lives of patients making them unable to conduct routine activities. In this regard, measures need to be adopted to ensure that the treatment is accessible for all." Strong government measures will go a long way for providing treatment for LSD patients. The National Policy for Treatment of Rare Diseases has already been approved and has various recommendations which would make it easier for the patients to get treatment. Taking cue from this, the onus lies on the Tamil Nadu government and other individual state governments to start providing support to such patients. "It is imperative that the treatment reaches to all patients in order to ensure that they can lead normal lives. For this, the Tamil Nadu government needs to play a major role. A committee has already been formed which includes government, medical and legal experts to recommend the treatment options and rehabilitative and supportive care for patients. The High Court has also directed that treatment should be initiated for the affected children immediately in government hospitals and genetic centres. The same needs to be done on an immediate basis so that not even one patient goes without treatment in the state" said Senior Advocate, V Ramesh. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United Kingdom and the European Union (EU) on Monday agreed to accelerate the pace of Brexit negotiations over the coming months. The decision was taken at a surprise dinner held by British Premier Theresa May and EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. Brexit is the popular term for the prospective withdrawal of the UK from the EU. Anadolu quoted a joint statement as saying that "both sides agreed that these issues are being discussed in the framework agreed between the EU27 and the United Kingdom, as set out in Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union". Article 50 sets out the procedure for a member state to withdraw from the Union. "The Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission reviewed the progress made in the Article 50 negotiations so far and agreed that these efforts should accelerate over the months to come," the statement added. Earlier in the day, the British premier held a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron and the leaders discussed progress in the negotiations. The U.K. had insisted Brexit negotiations had reached a point where sufficient progress had been made to take the talks to the second stage, where the future relationship between the U.K. and the EU could be discussed, reports Anadolu. However, upon the completion of a fifth round of negotiations last week, EU officials said the progress seen was not enough, despite a praised conciliatory speech by May in Florence. Back home, May could face significant defeats over Brexit as Tory rebels agree to coalesce around amendments to give MPs a binding vote on the final deal and to delay Britain's exit from the EU if a transition period is not agreed, reports The Guardian. It further adds that "the government is urgently trying to quell a potential rebellion after the scale of cross-bench cooperation over the EU withdrawal bill intensified, with newer MPs called in for meetings with chief whip Gavin Williamson". Those involved said that the government's decision to delay the next stage of the bill by at least a week had simply provided more time for their operation, with discussions across parties intensifying on Monday. One cabinet minister added that concessions were likely. The interest in both a final vote and transition are the most significant for the prime minister as they could hamper her ability to complete the Brexit process. In a referendum on 23 June 2016, 51.9% of the participating UK electorate (the turnout was 72.2% of the electorate) voted to leave the EU. On March 29, 2017, the British government invoked Article 50 of the Treaty on the European Union. The UK is thus on course to leave the EU on March 29, 2019. The issue of citizens' rights is one of the main issues that is to be dealt with during the negotiations, along with the land borders between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, and Gibraltar and Spain. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) U.S. forces killed dozens of Daesh militants in a strike on two of its training camps in Yemen's al Bayda governorate, the Pentagon said on Monday. "ISIS used the camps to train militants to conduct terror attacks using AK-47s, machine guns, rocket-propelled grenade launchers and endurance training," Anadolu quoted Penatgon, as saying in a statement, referring to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, another name for Daesh. However, the Pentagon did not describe how the strikes were conducted. Daesh has used ungoverned spaces of Yemen to plot, direct, instigate, supply and recruit for attacks against America and its allies around the world, the statement said. "In coordination with the government of Yemen, U.S. forces are supporting ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Yemen against ISIS and al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula to degrade the groups' ability to coordinate external terror attacks and limit their ability to hold territory seized from the legitimate government of Yemen," it added. Yemen has been a hub for terrorist recruiting, training and transit for years. The Yemeni Civil War is an ongoing conflict that began in 2015 between two factions claiming to constitute the Yemeni government, along with their supporters and allies. According to the UN, from March 2015 to March 2017, 16,200 people have been killed in Yemen, including 10,000 civilians. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 39 people have been killed by wildfires in Portugal and Spain, officials from both the countries said on Monday. In Portugal, 36 people are confirmed dead, while 63 people have been injured, out of which 16 have been stated to be in serious condition. On the other hand, three people have died in Spain's Galicia, while several people are said to be missing. Portugal's Prime Minister Antonio Costa declared a public emergency on Monday. He announced that all necessary means would be provided to fight the wildfire and promised action to prevent such large-scale fires in the future. More than 600 members of the Spanish Armed Forces have been deployed to help fight the flames. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy held a minute's silence on Monday in memory of the three Galician victims, and tweeted: "The Government of Spain is with Galicia, its people and with the Xunta. Together we will beat the fire." The recent weather conditions, including low humidity and unusually high temperatures, are believed to have played a major role in the wildfire. According to reports, Portugal experienced its driest September in 87 years, said the Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), asserting that the drought conditions may be the reason that the fires are spreading. At least 62 people were killed by a wildfire in central Portugal in June, which was described at the time by officials there as "the greatest wildfire tragedy of recent years". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) While the Supreme Court ban on sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR has been drawing mixed reactions from people in general, majority of working professionals in the region have supported such prohibition, noted a quick random survey by ASSOCHAM Social Development Foundation. While there is no doubt about construction activities, road dust, vehicular pollution, waste burning and other such factors being majorly responsible for deteriorating air quality in and around the city, majority of right-minded people in Delhi-NCR feel that no source of pollution is too small to be ignored when it comes to the public health concerns, highlighted the survey conducted by ASSOCHAM as part of its Corporate Social Development initiative. The ASSOCHAM Social Development Foundation (ASDF) randomly interacted with about 2,000 people in general at entry and exit points of Delhi Metro stations across the city during the last weekend to ascertain views of common Delhiites on Supreme Court's October 9 order suspending sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR. Banning sale of firecrackers is a very welcome move as smoke from fireworks is a common trigger for many individuals with asthma, many people experience respiratory distress, bronchitis, persistent cough, burning eyes, itchy throat and other related problems, said ASSOCHAM president, Sandeep Jajodia while releasing the findings of the survey. Air pollution in Delhi-NCR is not just devastating the environment but it might also hurt brand India thereby severely hitting sectors like tourism, outdoor recreation as people tend to stay away from polluted areas to avoid dense and toxic air, said Jajodia. Sunshine and good air have become luxury for Delhiities who have been dealing with anxieties over pollution, traffic, and related stress, added the ASSOCHAM chief. Though schools along with resident welfare associations and those in healthcare/medical sector/community have been carrying out campaigns across India with a view to sensitise people about harmful effects of firecrackers which has also led to growing environmental awareness, a judicious mix of command and control measures is the key to protect public health as pollution levels have only been going up during Diwali from year-to-year, he said further. Survey highlights: Over half of the total respondents (55 per cent) said that ban on sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR must be welcomed considering the need to avoid a spike in pollution to hazardous levels even though many of these opined that effectiveness of such a ban remains to be seen. Of those supporting the ban, some also said that it is high time that authorities also take equally stringent steps to curb other factors contributing to air pollution. While about 35 per cent respondents expressed anguish, resentment and felt that apex court's ban would mar the festive mood as there has been a long tradition of lighting fireworks on the festival of lights - Diwali especially in northern parts of India. Some of them even went on to the extent of terming the ban as 'unfair.' Many of them also said that it would only lead to rise in discreet sale of firecrackers and said that instead of being selective only for Diwali, there should be a blanket ban on firecrackers for all festivals celebrated in Delhi-NCR. The remaining said that ban is not going to make much difference to air pollution levels and seemed indifferent about the ban. Many of these also said that the authorities should have been considerate about fireworks' manufacturers, traders and their families. Many even suggested that industry in India must come up with green fireworks which are made of special paper and without sulphur as after being lit they emit less smoke and leave almost no scrap. Overall, majority of respondents said they are geared up for Diwali as they have already purchased face-masks to protect themselves from toxic air pollution. Industry overview: There are about 800 licensed fireworks units in and around Sivakasi town in India's southern state of Tamil Nadu where this industry accounts for a market size of about 2,500 crore and employees about 10 lakh workers in both organised and unorganised sectors. As per experts, the fireworks industry in India has been registering degrowth of about 40 per cent annually during the course of past about five years leading to rapid decline in profit margins of manufacturers and traders (wholesale and retail) owing to prevalence of illegally imported Chinese firecrackers, rising raw material prices, dearth of labour, restrictions imposed by local administration, anti-cracker campaigns and other inter-linked factors. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a bid to stem the row over the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said the famed monument in Agra was built "by the blood and sweat of Indian labourers". An official said he will also visit the Taj. "It does not matter who built it and for what reason. It was built by the blood and sweat of Indian labourers," the Chief Minister said of the 17th century marble monument which is India's biggest tourist draw. The statement came after Uttar Pradesh BJP legislator Sangeet Som sparked national outrage by calling the Mughal-built Taj Mahal a blot on Indian culture. Adityanath said the monument of love was important for the Uttar Pradesh government, specially "from the tourism perspective" and "it is our priority to provide facilities and safety to tourists there". Adityanath is scheduled to visit the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri and other important monuments in Agra on October 26, an official told IANS. The Taj was built by Mughal emperor Shahjahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz. Considered one of the wonders of the world, it attracts millions of Indian and foreign tourists every year. Last month, the Uttar Pradesh government had omitted references to the Taj in a booklet published on the completion of six months of the Adityanath government. This drew sharp criticism, prompting Tourism Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi to say that that Taj Mahal was of great importance to the state government and to the nation. --IANS md/rn/mr/ksk/rn (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Bengal Director General of Police Surajit Kar Purkayastha on Tuesday took stock of the situation in north Bengal's Kalimpong and said locals and police were working to help restore normalcy in the district. "Today (Tuesday), I visited Kalimpong. It is heartening to see that the situation is becoming normal. The local public is also very happy. The police and locals have worked hand in hand to restore normalcy and make the situation better," Purkayastha said. "We have identified a few people trying to create disturbance. Many of them have already been arrested, the rest will also be arrested," he said. The officer, who went to Darjeeling and Mirik on Monday, visited the Kalimpong police station, where a civic volunteer was killed and a Home Guard and a Seema Sashastra Bal trooper injured in a hand grenade explosion in August. He went around the Damber Chowk area in Kalimpong and talked to a few locals there. "I have talked to a few locals. They said they are happy that the shutdown has been withdrawn. Now, tourists have started to come in," the DGP said. Purkayastha's visit to north Bengal came days after Amitava Malik, a Sub Inspector, was killed and four cops were injured during a gun battle between security forces and Bimal Gurung faction of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha in Darjeeling's Lepcha Bustee near the Sikkim border. Though police failed to get hold of GJM chief Gurung, they arrested three persons and seized a large cache of arms and ammunition from the GJM camp. --IANS mgr/ssp/tsb/dg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday asked the Congress party to explain the alleged links between party President Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra and arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. "Why is the senior leadership of the Congress silent on the Vadra matter," Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman asked, referring to media reports about the reported financial links between Vadra and the arms dealer, who fled to the UK. Bhandari, who ran a defence consultancy firm called Offset India Solutions, faces an investigation into a defence deal in which he is alleged to have received kickbacks after swinging the jet trainer deal for Swiss company Pilatus. In the latest media report exposing the Bhandari-Vadra links, TimesNow TV news channel claimed to have accessed emails to establish that the two were in close touch with each other. The channel claimed that the emails show that Bhandari bought Vadra air tickets worth Rs 8 lakh for an Emirates flight in August 2012. The Congress has not reacted to the TimesNow report. "Is the Congress leadership, by being silent, implying they knew of it?," Sitharaman asked. She said while it was for the probe agencies like the CBI to establish the links between the two, she was only asking the Congress to break its silence over the issue. "I am not establishing the link. We will have to ask the Home Ministry and the CBI about that." --IANS sar/rn (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China will hold its most important political event -- the 19th Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) -- on Wednesday where some 2,300 delegates will meet to decide the leadership of the world's second-largest economy. Chinese President Xi Jinping's re-election as the party's General Secretary -- China's top post -- and a reshuffle in the all-powerful seven-member Politburo Standing Committee and other bodies will be the key highlights of the once in five years event. "The Congress will last seven days from October 18 to 24," spokesperson for the CPC, Tuo Zhen, told the Chinese and international media at the Great Hall of the People here. A total of 2,280 delegates will attend the event. The Congress will chart the course for China's next five years in the fields of economy and foreign policy besides other domestic issues. However, this year's Congress is primarily seen as an event where Xi, who has emerged as China's most powerful leader in decades, will amass more power. In nearly an hour and a half long press conference, Tuo said the constitution of the CPC will be amended at the 19th Congress. "It is an established practice of the party to amend the party's constitution at the national congresses in response to the innovations in theory and development practice at all national congresses," Tuo said. It is speculated that Xi's philosophy will be incorporated in the constitution. So far the party's constitutions have the doctrines of greats like Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping and Jiang Zemin. Last year, Xi was awarded the title of "core" leader, an award only given to Mao, Deng and Jiang. This reflects Xi's rising power as the honorific places him at the top of the Politburo Standing Committee. By the de facto retirement rule of 68, five members of the Standing Committee are to retire. Xi, 64, and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, 61, will stay on. It is to be seen if Wang Qishan, Xi's close confidant, will be retained in the Standing Committee as he is 69. Of the 25-member wider Politburo, 11 are due to retire. Tuo announced that new election of the Central Party Committee and a reshuffle in the country's top anti-graft body, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, will take place. Wang heads the anti-corruption body. Tuo also said there will be no let up in the fight against corruption. Over a million people have been punished in a Xi's signature anti-corruption campaign which also includes top echelons in the party and the Army. The work report of the CPC's 18th Central Committee and the report of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection will be discussed, Tuo said. All the meetings will be held behind closed doors and everything will take place according to the pre-written script. China's has one of the world's least transparent political systems. Founded in 1921, the CPC has nearly 89 million members, a number which is more than the population of Germany. It is also the world's longest ruling party. It took power in 1949. The first party Congress was held at 1921 in Shanghai. --IANS gsh/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A court here on Tuesday granted bail to an Intelligence Bureau official, a Delhi Police Inspector and two alleged middlemen in a case related to transfer and postings of government officials. Special Judge Virender Kumar Goyal granted bail to IB Assistant Director Kameshwar, Delhi Police Inspector Banay Singh Meena and two alleged middlemen Rajan Kumar and Arun Tiwari, directing them to furnish personal bonds of Rs 50,000 each. A chargesheet was filed against the four by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on October 7. On August 11, the CBI had arrested the IB and Delhi Police officials, two days after registering an FIR against them. Rajan and Arun were arrested later. According to the CBI FIR, Meena, posted in the Delhi Police Security Wing, conspired with Tiwari for "ensuring undue favours related to transfers and postings of public servants" and paid him a bribe of Rs 10 lakh which was to be delivered to Rajan Kumar in "coordination" with the IB official. The CBI has conducted searches at four locations in Delhi and seized Rs 1.6 crore and rubber stamps of various ministries and fake letterheads of government officials from the residences of the accused. --IANS akk/tsb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Taking a dig at BJP legislator Sangeet Som who called the Taj Mahal a blot on Indian history because it was built by foreign rulers, Samajawadi Party MLA Azam Khan on Tuesday said all "symbols of slavery" like Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi should be demolished. "I won't respond to him (Som). But I have always been saying that all symbols of slavery in India should be demolished. It is true that Mughals conquered India. But I won't get into how they came and who brought them to India because it will create a bitter debate. Some people will mind my opinion about that because they don't like the truth," Khan said, speaking to a TV channel. "Why only the Taj Mahal? Why not the Parliament? Why not the Rashtrapati Bhavan? Why not the Qutub Minar? Why not the Red Fort in Delhi? Why not the Agra Fort? These are the signs of traitors." Without naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Khan, known for his sharp comments aimed at his political rivals, said he had already made an appeal to the "Baadshah" and to the "younger Baadshah" that they should move forward in razing down these monuments "built by traitors and we will follow them". "Let theirs be the first blow (to demolish these monuments) and mine will be the second," he said. --IANS md/sar/dg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Acting tough ahead of the November 9 assembly polls, the Himachal Pradesh High Court on Tuesday directed the state election officials to ensure that no defacement of public property by any political party takes place in the run-up to the electoral exercise. A division bench, comprising of acting Chief Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Ajay Mohan Goel, directed the Chief Electoral Officer that writing on walls and pasting of posters would not be allowed on "public spaces" and "places open to public view". They directed that display of any flag and sticker would not be permitted on commercial vehicles, except after obtaining requisite permission from the appropriate authority. The court's orders came while hearing a petition which alleged that the political parties often indulge in defacing walls and installing hoardings in violation of the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and environmental laws. The matter would come up for next hearing on October 23. A total of 49.13 lakh voters will cast their votes in Himachal Pradesh, presently ruled by the Congress, to elect a new 68-member assembly. The results will be out on December 18. --IANS vg/in/dg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and UK Prime Minister Theresa May have agreed to seek faster progress in negotiations on Britain's exit from the European Union. The two leaders discussed Brexit, among other topics, during a working dinner on Monday at the European Union (EU) headquarters in Brussels, Efe news reported. Known as Article 50 negotiations, the discussions between the EU and London on the terms of the British exit are not going well. Michel Barnier, the official representing the other 27 EU nations in the negotiations, last week used the word "deadlock" to describe the status of the talks and said that he would not recommend starting the second phase of the process, which is supposed to focus on the UK's future relationship with the bloc. Phase one of the talks was meant to address three key points: the rights of EU and UK citizens; the nature of the border separating the UK province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland; and how much London should pay to settle pending financial commitments to the bloc. "The Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission reviewed the progress made in the Article 50 negotiations so far and agreed that these efforts should accelerate over the months to come," Juncker and May said in a joint statement, adding that their dinner "took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere". The meeting took place ahead of an EU Summit set to begin on Thursday. --IANS amit (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) To cater to the rush ahead of Diwali, Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation (HRTC) on Tuesday announced it will ply additional buses within and outside the state, an official said. "Additional buses will ply from Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla and Baddi to different parts of the state on October 17 and 18," a spokesman for the HRTC told IANS here. He said 90 additional buses would be deployed at the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) in New Delhi for various destinations in the state on Tuesday, while 130 buses would ply from Chandigarh on October 18. However, on the night of Diwali on October 19 limited buses would be deployed to link the state capital with the district headquarters and neighbouring Chandigarh and New Delhi. The HRTC, with over 2,500 buses, has been crucial to the state and its economy in linking far-flung villages with urban areas. --IANS vg/in/dg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India on Tuesday reiterated its concern to the US over the latest bid to introduce stricter norms for issuance of H1-B visas, which are largely availed by Indian IT firms. The Indian concerns were conveyed during a meeting between External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and a US Congressional delegation from the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted following the meeting between Sushma Swaraj and the nine-member delegation led by the House Committee's Chairman Lamar Smith: EAM @SushmaSwaraj flagged the issue of H1B visa as a strong concern and sought bipartisan Congressional support for the same. pic.twitter.com/g2ZZSyJGX7 Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 17, 2017 US President Donald Trump has called for stricter norms for issuance of H1-B visas, largely availed of by Indian IT firms. A private member's bill was also introduced earlier this year in the US Congress by Democrat Zoe Lofgren which seeks to increase the minimum salary of an H1-B visa holder to a whopping $130,000 from the current minimum of $60,000. Sushma Swaraj also raised the issue with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson during a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly Session last month. While Trump has spoken of restricting the H1-B visa system as part of his policy of putting Americans first, so far there have been no changes to it and for this year the same levels of 65,000 for general H1-B visas and 20,000 for those with advanced US degrees have been kept. Indians get most of the H1-B visas, although there are no quotas for the facility nor is it specifically designed for Indians. In Tuesday's meeting, Sushma Swaraj lauded the positive role of the US Congress in developing India-US strategic relations. "EAM @SushmaSwaraj welcomed the strong desire of the delegation to strengthen cooperation in strategic, economic, S&T and space sectors," Kumar said in a separate tweet. A global team of scientists gathered in the Chilean capital with the goal of determining whether the 1973 death of poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda was the result of cancer or of poison administered on the orders of dictator Augusto Pinochet. The panel, which includes recognised authorities from Chile, Spain, the United States, Denmark, Canada and France, is to deliver a report to Judge Mario Carroza, who is overseeing the investigation, Efe news reported. "What each of the experts brings is our little piece of the puzzle to try to construct together in the most reliable way possible what could have happened with the death of Pablo Neruda," said Spanish forensic pathologist Aurelio Luna. The Nobel laureate, who was suffering from prostate cancer, died on September 23, 1973, 12 days after Pinochet toppled Chile's Socialist government in a bloody coup. His death was officially blamed on the cancer, but an investigation was opened in mid-2011 after a complaint was filed by Neruda's Communist Party colleagues based on charges by former chauffeur Manuel Araya that Neruda was murdered on Pinochet's orders. The poet's body was exhumed on April 8, 2013, and a previous group of Chilean and international experts concluded seven months later that Neruda had not been poisoned. Carroza, however, was not fully satisfied and he ordered additional tests. The task of participants in this week's conference in Santiago is to analyse the results of those tests and come to some kind of conclusion. The initial review following the exhumation left a "series of doubts" that necessitate further review, Luna said. Investigations of other deaths have established that "crimes" took place at the Santa Maria Clinic - where Neruda died - during the Pinochet dictatorships, Eduardo Contreras, legal counsel for the Chilean Communist Party, said Monday. The 1982 death of former President Eduardo Frei Montalva, who governed from 1964-1970, at the Santa Marta Clinic after undergoing a routine procedure has been attributed to poisoning. "Pablo Neruda died in the same clinic, on the same floor, with the same doctors and several of the same nurses," Contreras said. The Nobel Prize winner, a member of the Communist Party Central Committee, died as he was preparing to travel to Mexico on a mission to organize opposition to Pinochet, the attorney said. Supporters of the theory that Neruda was murdered have pointed to the presence in his remains of a highly aggressive, penicillin-resistant bacterium. Lawyer Rodolfo Reyes, a nephew of Neruda who is representing the family, told EFE he was confident that the scientists meeting here would conclude that the poet was poisoned. --IANS amit (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said that M.S. Subbulakshmi remained an unsurpassed phenomenon in Carnatic music and an epitome of grace, respected by one and all. "MS Amma was the face of Indian Carnatic music for several decades. She captivated the hearts of billions, not only in Tamil nadu, South India or India but in the entire world," he said while addressing a gathering at the birth centenary commemoration of Subbulakshmi here, a press release said. "Setting aside mere gimmicks and gymnastics of classical music, she delved deep into the soul of the music and brought forth the treasures from there, not only to the pundits or the elite but also to the common man," he added. Naidu said that the Nightingale of India by her voice rose to heights "where all differences vanished and she took us there with her". "Titans on the opposite sides of ideology, the likes of Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajaji, united and stood together when it came to appreciating the music that flowed in her mellifluous voice...Even Mahatma Gandhi was spellbound when he listened to her rendition of 'Vaishnava Janatho'," he said. --IANS spk/rn (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Paris, Oct 17 (IANS/MAP) Morocco and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) signed an agreement here on Tuesday to create a "National Living Human Treasures System", an essential component of the national cultural heritage. The agreement, signed by Tourism Minister Mohammed Sajid and Unesco Director-General Irina Bokova, is intended to trigger off a process of preserving traditional know-how with the involvement of Moroccan craftsmen. It also aimed to ensure the perpetuation of different trades in danger of disappearing, mainly by the implementation of a National Living Human Treasures System and development of a pedagogical approach that will attract future generations and spark their interest in Moroccan craftsmanship. The agreement, a part of implementing the provisions of the 2003 Unesco Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, sought to provide the national craft sector with a permanent mechanism that will ensure the setting up and regular updating of a national intangible cultural heritage inventory. --IANS/MAP soni/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The recent pressure on the value of the Mexican peso is, at least in part, due to the uncertainty surrounding the NAFTA renegotiations, said Finance Minister Jose Antonio Meade. "The markets consider that, in the absence of a treaty, there has be a real adjustment in the exchange rate, which pressures us in consequence," Xinhua quoted Meade as saying at a business forum on Monday. The Mexican peso opened on Monday at a high of 19.09 pesos to the USD, its highest rate in five months. Another factor making investors nervous in Mexico is the expectation of a normalization of US monetary policy. "Faced with these two elements that come from outside, what we can do is trying to exercise internal control. What we have...is the ability to steady our fiscal policy," he added. Concerning the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Meade said the Mexican government's central objective is to secure a good renegotiation, calling the differences between the US, Canada and Mexico as part of a "normal process". The fourth round of NAFTA talks is currently being held in the US, with differences beginning to become more pronounced. Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo admitted earlier on Friday that conversations were going through a difficult time. The US government is seeking to update the NAFTA, in force since 1994, with a number of demands, including a five-year expiration clause, the scrapping of a chapter on dispute resolution, and an increasing in rules of origin for the automotive and textile industries which Mexico and Canada oppose. --IANS amit (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 Kolkata bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) on Tuesday ordered liquidation proceedings against Nicco Corporation Ltd after its lenders voted against a resolution plan. Referring the case, the status report of the bench for Tuesday said it was "under liquidation process under section 14 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)". Nicco Corporation initiated insolvency resolution process under section 10 of the IBC, which was admitted by the Kolkata bench of the tribunal on May 2, 2017. "A resolution plan prepared by the corporate debtor was circulated among lenders and they have asked for some changes. Accordingly, the changes were incorporated and re-circulated among lenders. But the lenders voted against the resolution plan," a source close to the development said. The company had secured credit facilities from a total of 12 consortium banks, including State Bank of India and Allahabad Bank. But it defaulted in repaying loan and interest to the tune of Rs 300 crore to banks and financial institutions, said another informed source. The company had reported a net loss of Rs 28.60 crore in 2016-17. The cable maker, in its June quarter results of the current financial year, said temporary suspension of work had been declared for its two units at Baripada (Odisha) and Shyamnagar (West Bengal) with effect from April 23, 2015 due to "acute fund constraint and allied labour issue". The flagship company of the Nicco Group had filed a reference with the Board for Industrial & Financial Reconstruction (BIFR) which declared that company had become a sick industrial company vide its order dated August 23, 2011. --IANS bdc/him/vm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Qatari man was arrested at the Lahore airport for trying to smuggle nine falcons worth more than Rs 50 million, the Pakistani media reported on Tuesday. Punjab wildlife official Khalid Ghayas Khan told Dawn that Ahmed Hussain Ali Muhammad-ul-Saada had hidden the falcons in a large black bag. He was arrested by a vigilance police squad at the Allama Iqbal International Airport. Nearly 5,000 to 6,000 falcons are trapped and smuggled out of Pakistan every year and sold to sheikhs in the Middle East. Falcons migrate thousands of miles to escape the harsh winters of Siberia, making stops for rest before continuing their journey to warmer regions in the south. --IANS ahm/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) SoftBank's multi-billion-dollar investment into ridesharing app Uber will be finalised "very likely in the next week" Uber board member Arianna Huffington has said. Uber's board voted earlier in October to approve the Japanese tech conglomerate's cash infusion, which would add six more board seats and annul super-voting shares held by former CEO Travis Kalanick among others. Through its $93 billion Vision Fund, SoftBank plans to acquire between 14-20 per cent of the world's most valuable privately-held tech startup, Recode quoted Huffington as saying at a media conference on Monday. She confirmed reports that the proposed deal would involve both a direct investment in the company at the last private valuation and also a secondary transaction, buying out existing shareholders at a yet-to-be-determined discount, TechCrunch reported. Uber is still "waiting on what's going to transpire in terms of the price", said Huffington. She added that having SoftBank "on your cap table is very important when they're also investing in so many of our competitors around the world". Implying that there could be more acquisitions in ridesharing, she said to "expect to see some consolidation." Huffington also spoke about the difficult period Uber has faced in the past few months. The company's work environment had come under fire, leading to the departure of several key executives, including co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Travis Kalanick. She voiced optimism about Uber's new leader, Dara Khosrowshahi. Calling him "unflappable," she said that there's a renewed focus on image. His "goal is to get people to love the company and not just the product". Huffington also said that Khosrowshahi has a greater focus on cost-cutting, in order to meet the goal of taking Uber public by 2019. A Spanish judge has jailed two key members of the Catalan independence movement as the country moves closer to imposing direct rule over the region to thwart its push for freedom. Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart, who led prominent separatist groups, were being held without bail and under investigation for sedition, the BBC reported. The men were leading figures in the October 1 independence vote regarded by the Madrid government as illegal. Their detention led to protests overnight with more expected across Catalonia on Tuesday. Sanchez heads the Catalan National Assembly (ANC), a pro-independence organisation, and Cuixart is the leader of Omnium Cultural association. Both the leaders appeared before the High Court in Madrid on Monday. They were being investigated over a protest on September 20 in which a crowd blocked Civil Guard officers inside a building in Barcelona, Catalonia's regional capital. Following the referendum, Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont signed a declaration of independence but halted its implementation to allow negotiations. He called for talks to take place over the next two months. However, the Spanish government warned that Catalonia must revoke the declaration or face direct rule from Madrid. Puigdemont also angered Madrid by refusing to clarify whether or not he declared independence last week. Puigdemont, who was given until Thursday to clarify his position, hit out at the government on Twitter following news of Sanchez and Cuixart's detention. "Spain jails Catalonia's civil society leaders for organising peaceful demonstrations. Sadly, we have political prisoners again," he wrote. In a video recorded before his court appearance and released on his Twitter account after his detention, Cuixart instructed separatists to "never lose hope because the people of Catalonia have earned their future". Just hours before the ruling, the High Court freed the head of Catalonia's police force, Josep Lluis Trapero. His force, the Mossos d'Esquadra, was accused of failing to help Spain's Guardia Civil police tackle thousands of pro-independence protesters in Barcelona during the run-up to the referendum. --IANS soni/dg US President Donald Trump has said that pulling his government out of the nuclear pact with Iran is a very real possibility. "I feel strongly about what I did. I'm tired of being taken advantage of as a nation," Trump told the press on Monday during a Cabinet meeting, Efe news reported. "We'll see what phase two is. Phase two might be positive. It might be very negative. Might be a total termination. That's a very real possibility. But it also could turn out to be very positive. We'll see what happens." Trump said he was pleased that lately "the tone of the Iranian leaders was very modified". "And I was happy to see that. But I don't know if that means anything." He called the Iranians "great negotiators" because "they negotiated a phenomenal deal for themselves, but a horrible deal for the United States". Trump announced on Friday that for now he will maintain the US participation in the nuclear agreement with Iran, but will back out if it isn't modified unilaterally by the US Congress or multilaterally in negotiations involving all the signatory nations. Specifically, the President wishes to correct the "weak inspections" allowed in the accord, deal with Tehran's "ballistic rocket programme" and eliminate the "expiry dates" fixed on Iran's nuclear programme, which in some cases expire after as much as 10 to 25 years. Trump urged the US Congress to pass an amendment to the law that marks "red lines", which, if they are crossed, would immediately bring back the sanctions that were lifted on Iran's nuclear programme by the agreement signed with France, the UK, Germany, China, Russia and Iran. The Trump government will also try to reach a parallel accord with the signatory countries that deals with the expiry dates, the ballistic missile programme and the mechanisms for inspecting Iranian nuclear facilities. The Iranian authorities have said the nuclear agreement reached more than 10 years ago cannot be re-negotiated and that the pact will be respected as long there is reciprocity from the signatory nations. They also asked for European efforts to impede the latest US strategy. --IANS amit (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Venezuela's MUD opposition alliance has said it will only renew talks with President Nicolas Maduro if he agrees to a comprehensive audit of just-completed gubernatorial elections. "We demand a total audit, quantitative and qualitative ... of the entire electoral process, with trustworthy international verification," MUD spokesman Angel Oropeza said while reading from a statement, Efe news reported. The opposition has refused to recognise the results of Sunday's balloting, which gave Maduro's leftist PSUV party 17 of the 23 contested governorships. One million voters encountered obstacles when trying to cast ballots in precincts where the opposition traditionally does well, Oropeza said, adding that 350,000 others faced "violence and intimidation inside and outside polling places". Foreign election observers said earlier Monday that they deemed the process free and fair. "The mission considers that the process went off successfully and that the will of the citizens expressed peacefully at the polls has been respected," the chair of the Council of Latin American Electoral Experts, Nicanor Moscoso, said in Caracas. "We call on the public and the world to fight for a new electoral system and for the urgent scheduling of free and transparent elections," MUD's Oropeza said. --IANS amit (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told a public rally of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Gandhinagar that the Congress has special hatred for Gujarat and Gujaratis. The PMs personal Twitter handle @narendramodi also tweeted this as well as a three-minute excerpt of his speech. Congress Lok Sabha member Shashi Tharoor replied to the PM on Twitter: My son has just married a Gujarati, @narendramodi ji. We have nothing but love for your state and its people. Tharoors son Ishaan, a US-based writer on foreign affairs, married Bhumi Dave some days back in the US. Dave, a recruiter at the CNN, hails from Gujarat. On the night of December 6, 1992, a cable went out from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to Indian diplomatic missions abroad cautioning them that Pakistan might try to exploit the situation after the demolition of Babri Masjid, especially urging them to be on their guard against violence directed at Indian properties and interests. BJP chief on Tuesday will join the high-pitched 'Janaraksha Yatra' against the political violence allegedly unleashed by the CPI(M) as the two-week-long campaign will conclude, party sources said on Monday. The padyatra, flagged-off by Shah on October 3 from Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers, was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. The sources said Shah would walk with party cadres from Pattom to the Puthrikandam maidan, the venue of the valedictory of the two-week-long yatra. A host of BJP leaders, Union ministers and BJP chief ministers, including Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, have participated in the yatra at different stages. It's led by BJP state chief Kummanom Rajasekharan. The BJP has lashed out at the CPI(M) over the political violence in Kerala, alleging that their party cadres were attacked and killed by ruling CPI(M) workers. They had also alleged that instances of political violence increased whenever the LDF came to power in Kerala, ruled alternatively by Congress-led UDF and LDF. It was also alleged that the state has become a fertile ground for 'jihadis'. The ruling CPI(M) has rejected the charges and said that BJP-RSS activists attacked its workers instead. The CPI(M) has also alleged that the BJP was attempting to create tension in the state by unleashing violence. There was more focus on showing off than providing basic facilities and security to train passengers, the Shiv Sena said on Tuesday. The party's comments come two days after 26 people on the Mumbai-bound Tejas Express from Goa fell due to suspected food poisoning after eating breakfast on the premium train. The BJP ally said the railways, which has seen a slew of mishaps in the last few weeks, was playing with the lives of people. "There is more focus on showing off than providing basic facilities and security to passengers. Travelling by rail amounts to putting one's life at risk. "Every year, 20,000-25,000 lives are lost due to rain-related incidents. Questions like old infrastructure, old foot overbridges, old signalling system have been pending (resolution) for years," the Sena said in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana'. Passengers have been regularly complaining about unhygienic food served on trains. The situation now is such that they don't even bother to complain, the Marathi daily said. "Some passengers of Tejas Express had to undergo a 'poisonous exam' (a reference to food poisoning on-board the train). As always, the official concerned was suspended and an inquiry was ordered. But how was low quality food served when the train boasts of serving food at par with airlines?" it asked. Last year, the CAG had raised questions about the standard of food being served in trains. A lizard was recently found in food served in Kolkata-Delhi Purva Express. Also, some passengers fell ill after eating food in Rajdhani Express, the Sena publication said. "Peoples' lives are being played with. The previous railways minister had given an assurance about improving the catering service and providing good quality food but the Tejas incident has proved that all the assurances were false," it said. If the railways boasts of providing food to 11 lakh passengers daily, it should also take the responsibility of ensuring that food doesn't cause poisoning, the Sena said. Afghan officials say Taliban attacks in the country's south, west and east have killed at least 10 policemen. In southern Ghazni province, the insurgents stormed a security compound, using a suicide car, and killed at least seven policemen. Provincial chief police, Mohammad Zaman, says the attack in Andar district today triggered several hours of heavy fighting until the attackers were repelled. Zaman says the district compound has been destroyed. In western Farah province, police chief Abdul Maruf Fulad says the Taliban attacked a government compound in Shibkho district, killing three policemen. The Interior Ministry says a militant attack, including a suicide car bombing is underway in eastern Paktia province's capital, Gardez, where insurgents targeted a police training center. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for all three attacks. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Airbus will take a majority stake in Bombardier's marquee C-Series airliner programme, the companies announced, as the Canadian firm battled against a stiff tariff ruling in the US. The landmark agreement comes after the US administration slapped a 220 per cent countervailing duty, as well as an 80 percent anti-dumping tax, on Bombardier CS100 and CS300 aircraft imported into the US. Boeing accuses Bombardier of manufacturing its 100-150 seat planes with public subsidies and selling them at a loss to Delta Air Lines. The agreement between Airbus and Bombardier aims to allow for significant production savings on the C-Series aircraft and to make use of Airbus's international reach for sales, the two groups said in a statement. "It's a win-win deal for everyone," said the president of Airbus, Tom Enders. "I have no doubt that our partnership with Bombardier will boost sales and the value of this program enormously." The programme's production headquarters will remain in Quebec. Airbus will take approximately 50.01 percent of the shares in CSALP, the entity which manages the C-Series program, with Bombardier and Investissement Quebec holding 31 and 19 per cent respectively. "We are very happy to welcome Airbus to the C-Series program," Bombardier's CEO Alain Bellemare said. "Airbus is the perfect partner for us, Quebec, and Canada," he added. A deal between the two companies had been mooted previously but discussions stalled two years ago and the project was abandoned. The C-Series is a state-of-the-art aircraft largely built from composite materials. It complements Airbus' medium-range carrier, the A320, which can carry some 140 passengers. "The single aisle market is a key growth driver, representing 70 percent of the expected global future demand for aircraft," according to a statement from Bombardier. "Ranging from 100 to 150 seats, the C Series is highly complementary to Airbus' existing single aisle aircraft portfolio, which focuses on the higher end of the single-aisle business (150-240 seats)." The US aerospace firm Boeing, claiming its competitor received unfair state subsidies, successfully petitioned the Trump administration to impose financial penalties on Bombardier to keep it from selling its C-Series planes in the massive US market. In turn, Canada has voiced interest officially in some Australian military aircraft and called off discussions with Boeing on a possible purchase of 18 new Super Hornets. It intends to renew its fighter jets and is set to seek offers in 2019. Bombardier's C-Series is the first new design in the 100- to 150-seat category in more than 25 years, and US-based Delta Airlines has ordered 75 of them. In the complaint to the US Commerce Department that led to massive anti-dumping duties being imposed on Bombardier, Boeing accused its rival of unfairly benefiting from state subsidies that allowed it to sell C-Series aircraft at below cost to Delta Air Lines. During a conference call for the airline's third quarter results, Delta chief executive Ed Bastian said the duties imposed on the C-Series were "nonsensical," and vowed not to pay the additional tariffs. The trade row escalated to include rebukes from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who vowed to retaliate by nixing plans to buy 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from Boeing, and Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who is worried for 4,200 C-Series wing assembly jobs in Northern Ireland. Bombardier, meanwhile, has noted that the C-Series rollout would generate more than USD30 billion for US suppliers and support 22,700 American jobs. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nigeria's president demanded that police and the army "stop the madness" in central Plateau state after more than 20 people were killed a new flare-up of violence. Fulani herdsmen are suspected of killing at least 20 people last weekend with guns and explosives in the latest round of clashes in a long-running battle over grazing rights in central Nigeria. "President Muhammadu Buhari has received with deep sadness and regret of the recent killings of at least 20 people in Plateau state, during what has been described as a reprisal attack by some herdsmen," according to an official statement. "This madness has gone too far. (Buhari) has instructed the military and the police to not only bring the violence to an instant end, but to draw up a plan to ensure that there are no further attacks and reprisal attacks by one group against the other," the statement added. Nomadic Muslim Fulani herdsmen allegedly launched a series of attacks against Christian farmers, defying a curfew put in late Friday by the state's governor after a rise in tensions between the two communities. "Some unknown group attacked some villages in Barikin Ladi early on Saturday and killed a lot of people," according to the spokesperson of the Special Task Force in the state, Salisu Mustapha. "The attackers came in large group and for the first time not only shot their victims but also used explosives," he added. Plateau state falls on the dividing line between Nigeria's mainly Christian south and mostly Muslim north and has witnessed sporadic ethnic and religious tensions for decades. The largely agrarian Christian communities in the state maintain the Muslim Fulani herdsmen are engaged in a prolonged battle to gobble up land from the areas of so-called indigenous people. Fulani leaders counter their people face discrimination as "foreigners" in Plateau and are deprived of basic rights, including access to land, education and political office, despite having lived in the area for generations. Tensions frequently boil over, with more than 10,000 people killed in the state since the turn of the century, according to groups tracking the violence. (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.) BJP President Amit Shah today hit out at Kerala's CPI(M)-led LDF over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsiblity for the "killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers." Shah also took a swipe at the Congress, saying the party was "finished" in the country due to alleged corruption and "family rule." Shah was addressing a massive rally of party workers at the conclusion of the BJP's 15-day long 'Jana Raksha Yatra' here, organised to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' under the CPI(M)-led LDF rule. "I am asking Kerala chief minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsiblity for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power (in May 2016)," said Shah, who took part in the padayatra for a distance of about two km along with state president Kummanam Rajasekharan. "CM saheb, If you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology," he said. "In a short period of time, people of Kerala also will throw away CPI(M) from the state, for its politics of violence," the BJP chief said. Not sparing the Congress, the main opposition in the state, he said "the party was finished in the country due to corruption and family rule." Slamming Vijayan, Shah asked the chief minister whether the mandate given by people was to "eliminate" innocent BJP-RSS workers. Stating that attacks against BJP-RSS workers had increased whenever the marxist party came to power in Kerala, Shah said 30 party workers were killed during LDF rule between 1996-2001 and 28 workers during 2006-11. "Now when it came to power in 2016, in the short period of one-and-half years, 13 RSS-BJP activists have been killed by CPI-M workers," he said. The BJP leader assured the families of the victims of attacks, allegedly by the CPI(M), that all the accused would be brought to book and the party would always be with the families. If the marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of independence, "they are mistaken," he said. Shah made it clear that BJP's ideology and its growth in the state cannot be stopped with violence. He said the yatra was aimed at creating awareness about the "communist sponsored violence and brutality" against BJP-RSS workers in the state. Shah said it was "shameful" on the part of the chief minister to appoint a CPI-M party worker, accused in a case connected with the killing of a BJP worker, as party block secretary. This is the first time in the country that a padayatra that covered 140 km, touching 11 districts, has been taken out against political violence, he said. Not sparing the Congress leaders in Kerala, Shah said former chief minister Oommen Chandy and some of his colleagues were smeared in "solar scam. " However, he alleged that the chief minister was delaying action against the accused even though the judicial commission, set up to probe the scam, had submitted its report. Shah also said the government at the Centre led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi never discriminated states on the basis of political affiliations in sanctioning funds. While the 13th Finance Commission during UPA-1 sanctioned Rs 45,395 crore for the state, the 14th Finance Commission of Modi government sanctioned Rs 1.13 lakh crore, Shah said. Earlier, Shah walked with party workers for about two km from the Martyr's column at Palayam to Putharikandam maidan, near the famous Padmanabha swamy temple. The BJP chief waved and acknowledged greetings from thousands of BJP workers as he joined the yatra being led by state president, Kummanam Rajasekharan. Shah also paid tributes to party workers who had lost their lives in political violence in the state before addressing the public meeting. The BJP chief had flagged-off the yatra at Payyannur in Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers, on October 3. The padayatra had criss-crossed 11 districts in the state with four chief ministers, including Yogi Aditiyanath of Uttar Pradesh, senior party leaders and Union ministers taking part in the high-pitched campaign against the ruling LDF. Representatives of the NDA partners in the state-- Tushar Vellapally of BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena), Tribal leader C K Janu of Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, P C Thomas of Kerala Congress (Thomas) were among those who attended the public meeting. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union minister and Member of Parliament from Darjeeling S S Ahluwalia today warned the West Bengal government of a severe backlash if the state chose to "physically eliminate" people in a bid to douse the fire in its hills. Hitting out at state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Ahluwalia said, "Bullets, jail, violence will not solve the problems in hills". The minister of state for drinking water and sanitation said he feared that Gorkha Janmukti Morcha leader Bimal Gurung, who is in hiding, might be targeted by the state police. "I fear for his life," the MP said. "The conspiracy of physical elimination will not be tolerated in a democratic setup," Ahluwalia said, reacting to alleged police atrocities in the Darjeeling hills. A police team conducting a raid in a bid to capture Gurung was allegedly fired at by Gurung's supporters on Friday. A sub-inspector was killed and four policemen were injured. Banerjee had yesterday said, without taking names, that an MP was helping to spread violence in Darjeeling and its surrounding areas. She had said the BJP was allowing the hills to "burn for the sake of a seat". Ahluwalia accused the Bengal government of "lacking the initiative for conducting political dialogues" and said the problem (in the hills) could only be solved through mutual trust and understanding. "In my 27 years of political life no one has ever raised any question on my conduct," he said. As an MP, he was duty bound to listen to the grievances of the people of his constituency, he said, adding that talking to the constituents was not a crime. "For me, the people of Naxalbari or Siliguri are as important as the people of Darjeeling or Kurseong," Ahluwalia said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police rescued a businessman along with ransom money of Rs 28.90 lakh from Bihar's Rohtas district in the early hours today and arrested seven of his kidnappers. The arrested included the kidnap mastermind along with three country-made pistols, nine cartridges, four mobile handsets, a car and a motorcycle. The businessman was kidnapped on October 11 from Narsiganj area and his kidnappers had demanded Rs two crore ransom to free him, Shahabad Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Mohammad Rahman said. Later the kidnappers agreed to release the businessman on payment of Rs 27 lakh, which was was seized by the police along with Rs 1.9 lakh which was paid by his relatives. The DIG said the businessamn was rescued by a special team, which was constituted by the superintendent of police M S Dhillon, from Pipradih village under Rohtas police station of the district. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) For the first time since playing to an empty stadium in protest at a violent crackdown of an independence referendum in Catalonia, Barcelona's Camp Nou opens its doors when Olympiakos visit on Wednesday. On the field, Barca should have little problem sweeping aside an Olympiakos side without a point in the Champions League so far this season to consolidate their position atop Group D. However, how Barca's fans will react to a tumultuous few weeks of political tension in Catalonia is less predictable with the support split like the rest of society on wealthy northeastern region of Spain. Chants in favour of independence are common at the Camp Nou from a section of the Barca fanbase, most notably in the 17th minute to mark the fall of Catalonia in the Spanish War of Succession in 1714. Barca have also been repeatedly fined by UEFA for fans flying the Catalan 'Estelada' flag, which has become a symbol of the independence movement within Catalonia, at Champions League matches. Leading Barca players such as Gerard Pique and Andres Iniesta called for politicians on both sides of the independence debate to negotiate in the wake of the October 1 referendum. As Spanish riot police fired rubber bullets and seized ballot papers leaving 92 injured, among nearly 900 who sought medical attention that day, Barca beat Las Palmas 3-0 behind closed doors. Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu insisted he tried to have the match abandoned, but instead settled for showing their opposition by playing the match in an empty 99,000 capacity Camp Nou. Yet, players have been less keen to position themselves on the confused political fallout in the past few weeks. A standoff has ensued with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy calling on Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont to clarify if he has declared independence for Catalonia on the basis of the referendum, deemed illegal by the Spanish government. "What we like is playing and enjoying ourselves in a spectacular atmosphere like today," said Iniesta after Barca's 1-1 draw at Atletico Madrid on Saturday. Barca's first visit to the capital since the escalation of the political divide was expected to provoke a hostile welcome for the visitors. However, other than the waving of more Spanish flags than normal at Atletico matches and some jeers for Pique, the match passed off peacefully. "It was a great game, in a great atmosphere, in a great stadium," said Barca boss Ernesto Valverde. Despite a series of distractions on and off the field, including the loss of Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain and calls for Bartomeu to resign on top of the Catalonia crisis, Barca have started impressively under Valverde. A run of nine straight wins in La Liga and Champions League was ended on Saturday, but Barca are heavy favourites to get back to winning ways against one of Valverde's former clubs. Valverde won three league titles with the Greek giants, who have never won in 14 previous visits to Spain. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi today said the Centre has not rejected their demand for a central university status to Patna University and may consider the matter at an appropriate time. He was talking to reporters on the sidelines of his weekly Janata Darbar at his official residence 1, Polo Road here. "We have been making this demand for quite some time now. The central government may consider it (granting central university status to PU) at an appropriate time," Sushil Modi said. He asserted that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had already spoken on the issue at his Lok Samvad programme yesterday and there was no need for any further discussion on the matter. "There are already four central universities in Bihar - one each at Gaya, Motihari, Rajgir and Samastipur," the deputy CM said, adding that Vikramshila University, proposed near Bhagalpur, would also get a central status. "I don't think any other state can boast of these many central universities except Uttar Pradesh, which is a bigger state (than Bihar)," the deputy CM said. The chief minister had said yesterday that his duty was to raise demand for central university status to century-old Patna University (PU) "again and again" whether the Centre accepts it or not. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had side-stepped the CM's request for central status to the university during his visit here on Saturday. The PM had said he wanted PU to be ahead of central universities. In reply to a query on the new tax regime, Sushil Modi said the GST council in its recent meeting had constituted a committee to review the tax rate on goods, especially the ones that could be brought under the 18 per cent slab from 28 per cent. He also said that he had directed the Bihar Industries Association and Bihar Chamber of Commerce and Industries to hand him over a list of goods that were taxed under the 28 per cent slab at present but attracted lesser cess before GST. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The CEO of a business venture run by Sirsa-based has been arrested in connection with the violence that erupted following the conviction of the sect's head Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a rape case on August 25, the police said today. Also, a Bathinda-based woman and her son were arrested yesterday for allegedly providing shelter to the sect head's adopted daughter Honeypreet Insan when she was evading arrest, they said. CP Arora, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MSG All India Trading International Pvt limited, was arrested from Panchkula by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Haryana Police yesterday, Panchkula Police Commissioner A S Chawla said. "We have sufficient evidence against him about his role in Panchkula violence," the police officer said. Chawla said Arora would be produced before Panchkula district court today and his police remand would be sought so that he can be questioned thoroughly. According to the police, Arora had already been booked for allegedly conspiring to incite violence on August 25. Following the conviction of Ram Rahim, violence erupted in Panchkula and Sirsa districts of Haryana leaving 41 people dead and several injured. Arora was said to be close to absconding key Dera functionary Aditya Insan against whom a lookout notice was issued. MSG All Trading International Pvt Ltd deals in food and other products. Last year, the company launched 151 items of its brand, including basmati rice, tea, pulses and biscuits. The products were launched by Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. Bhatinda-based Sharanjit Kaur and her son Gurmeet Singh has been from Jangirana village in Punjab. They had gone into hiding when Haryana police had gone to their house last week along with Honeypreet, the police said. After being on the run for over a month, Honeypreet was arrested on October 3 by the Haryana Police from Zirakpur- Patiala road in Punjab for her alleged involvement in hatching a conspiracy to incite the violence in Panchkula. Haryana police have also arrested Chandigarh Police head constable Labh Singh for his suspected role in the conspiracy to free Ram Rahim Singh after his conviction on August 25. They have also arrested Dera member Gopal Bansal, a resident of Hanumangarh in Rajasthan, in connection with the Panchkula violence. A Chinese agricultural scientist, known as the "father of hybrid rice", has set a new world record in super hybrid output by achieving an annual yield of over 1,149 kgs per 0.07 hectares, a media report said today. The record was set in north China's Hebei province by Yuan Longping who has been nominated to attend the once-in-a- five-year Congress of the ruling Communist Party of China, (CPC) to be held here tomorrow. Since the beginning of 2016, Yuan's team has managed 42 hybrid rice test fields in 16 provincial regions across China, including Yunnan, Sichuan, Shaanxi, Guangdong, Chongqing and Hunan. The new world record was set in the test fields in Hebei, which achieved an annual yield of 1,149.02 kgs of rice per mu (about 0.07 hectares) of farmland, state run Xinhua agency reported. Yuan, who developed the world's first hybrid rice in 1974, has set multiple world records in hybrid rice yield in 1999, 2005 and 2011. Hybrid rice, also known as super rice in China, is produced by crossbreeding different kinds of rice About 65 per cent of Chinese depend on rice as a staple food. In 2013 Yuan had criticised Indian farmer Sumant Kumar who beat his world record by harvesting 22.4 tonnes per hector terming the achievement as "fake." It is "120 per cent fake", Yuan had said after the success story of Kumar, a farmer from Bihar's Nalanda district, was published in the international media. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Costa Rican national has pleaded guilty to the charges of selling drugs in the US which was imported from India, the Justice Department has said. Ramiro Navarro Quesada, 41, who was arrested in Madrid, early this year and subsequently extradited to the US in late August, pleaded guilty to two counts before Senior US District Judge Donetta W Ambrose in Pittsburgh. Indian-American US Attorney Shardul S Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The sentencing is scheduled for March 19, 2018. He faces a total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of USD 750,000, or both. According to court papers, Quesada used a Costa Rican website to advertise the Internet sale of Schedule II and IV controlled substances and erectile dysfunction drugs, which were exported from India and received in the US. "This case is a prime example of how the US will use all available tools at our disposal to identify and apprehend drug traffickers," said Wayne Salzgaber, Interpol Washington Acting Director. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) "There must be somebody with whom you are not at war," the Delhi High Court told the Delhi government while pulling it up over the pending salaries of sanitation employees of the city's municipal bodies. A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar also directed the striking sanitation employees not to obstruct cleaning of garbage as they caused serious diseases like dengue. "Don't bring such cases to us in courts. There must be somebody with whom you (Delhi government) are not at war. Be it the Union of India, MCDs or NDMC. If you have public interest in mind, then you will ensure that the MCDs do their job properly," the bench said. To this, Delhi government standing counsel said the government was serious about the issue. The bench was a hearing a plea seeking a direction to the authorities to ensure that the workers of East and North Delhi Municipal Corporations call off their strike, which started on October 11 and October 16 respectively, and resume work. It directed that no safai karamchari shall obstruct those workers who are willing to carry out their assigned duties. "Safai karamchari shall ensure that they seriously carry out the assigned duties of MCDs and no obstruction shall be caused," the bench said. It said the failure to remove garbage and clean the dhalaos (dumps) have major repurcussions like direct connection with breeding of disease-bearing mosquito larvae leading to serious diseases like dengue and chikungunya. "Therefore, there can be no stoppage of essential work of cleaning and removal of garbage. Doing so imperils lives of public at large," the bench said. The court listed the matter for further hearing on October 25. During the hearing, central government standing counsel Monika Arora said there were some safai karamcharis who were creating problems and refusing to discharge their duties and also stopping others from doing work. She said due to this, garbage was accumulating on roads having adverse impact on the health of the residents. The court had earlier on October 13 asked the AAP government to release within three days the arrears of sanitation workers of the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC), who are on indefinite strike since October 11. It had said the authorities should release the arrears in three days after it was told that inspite of assurances given by the government, their outstanding payment has not been made since 2003. The court was hearing a plea by one Rahul Birla, who had sought a direction to the government and the EDMC to make immediate payment of the arrears. Advocate Niraj Gupta, appearing for the petitioner, had urged the court to direct the EDMC to issue medical cashless cards to its sanitation workers. The plea has also sought direction to the authorities to immediately implement the recommendations of the 4th Finance Commission. The plea has said the workers of all the three MCDs had also gone on strike in January 2015, October 2015 and January 2016, which had worsened the sanitary conditions in the capital creating an imminent risk of outbreak of diseases. It has said the strike had resulted in accumulation of garbage for a number of days at different places, with stink emanating from garbage dumps, making the lives of the people pathetic and miserable. Scores of the EDMC sanitation workers, who are demanding payment of salaries due to them, clearance of arrears and medical cashless card, went on strike. The EDMC, one of the three civic bodies created in 2012 after the trifurcation of the erstwhile unified Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), has been cash-strapped for a long time now. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The official car of Punjabi Bagh sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Santosh Kumar was challaned today for not having pollution under control (PUC) certificate issued by the transport department, an official said today. However, Kumar alleged his car was challaned as he had arrested five officials of the transport department for having "unaccounted" money while on duty on the intervening night of October 14 and October 15. The challan was issued this morning in west Delhi's Janakpuri area when the SDM was going in his official car, owned by a private vendor. "When the car was stopped, it was found that the driver did not have a valid licence. He also failed to produce the vehicle papers on the spot following which the car was impounded," said a transport department official, who did not wish to be named. The official said that when the papers were produced later, the PUC certificate was not available and in view of this, the vehicle was challaned for Rs 1,000. The SDM said the car was challened as he had taken action against five officials of the transport department. "On the intervening night of October 14 and October 15, I found unaccounted amount of Rs 20,200 from the possession of five transport department officials. When I enquired about it, they could not give satisfactory reply. I found only two challans each of Rs 100," Kumar told PTI. He said that under Section 44 of the CrPC, a magistrate has power to arrest anyone when any offence is committed in his or her presence. "Therefore, I handed over five officials to Mundka police station after recording their statement," the SDM said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Silicon Valley-based Indian- American think-tank will hold the first annual dialogue on "integral humanism" as part of Hindutva icon Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay's birth centenary celebrations here next week. The "Integral Humanism: Indian Thought for the 21st Century Society, Economy and Politics" dialogue will be held at the US Capitol on October 23. It will be attended by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shiviraj Chauhan, senior BJP leader Ram Madhav and eminent economist Arvind Panagariya. The dialogue is organised by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) in association with the Embassy of India. Several top American lawmakers are expected to attend the inaugural annual annual dialogue. It will focus on key political and economic issues facing the world, FIIDS said in a statement. It will be an occasion to deliberate on the possible responses to the growing range of challenges from political instability, terrorism, economic disparity, unemployment and poverty and the problem of climate change, it said. Upadhyaya is best known for his doctrine of "integral humanism" which he saw as the foundation for world peace and prosperity. "This doctrine puts the human being at the center of development and looks to provide a minimum standard of living to every individual," FIIDS said. It believes in a synthesis of the material and the spiritual, the individual and the collective, and favours the use of natural resources at a rate at which it can be replenished, it added. Late last month, the Indian Embassy in Washington and its other consulates in the US, celebrated the 100th birth anniversary of Upadhyaya. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Deepika Padukone said she believes romantic relationships are complicated and it is difficult to find a partner who understands one's success and passion. The 31-year-old actor said it is not easy for a performer to maintain their number one position in the industry. "As far as romantic relationships are concerned, they are complicated because it is difficult to find someone, who understands your success, your passion for what you do, who understands that maybe you earn more money (than him). It (at the top) is a complicated place to be in," Deepika said. The actor said that with extreme success, she "overnight, (I) had wings to fly" and that is when relationships go through testing times. "Some of my personal relationships have become stronger with time but I have seen some of my friends, who have distanced themselves from me. Some of my school friends... We have become closer than before because we all make efforts to stay in touch. "A lot of people could not handle the success that came my way and sort of disconnected. I am not upset about it, that's just the way life goes. People, who are closest to you and matter, understand," she said. Deepika was speaking at the launch of veteran actor Hema Malini's biography "Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl". The "Bajirao Mastani" star said stardom and sacrifice go hand-in-hand and one needs to be dedicated to achieve their goals. "... I haven't gone to college. I just managed to finish my 11th and 12th (standards) also because by then I had become a successful model. And while I lived in Bengaluru, I still had to go to Mumbai and Delhi a lot of times for work. "Then I tried doing my first year of degree, (but) I couldn't do that. I tried distance education, I couldn't do that as well. So, I am just 12th pass and my parents had a lot of issues with it back then," she said. Hema said being on top is a "lonely place" to be in. "Of course, it is a lonely place, in many ways. Even in personal relationships. You are working hard the whole day, then you come back just to sleep and leave early morning for work. I don't know how to explain... "When it comes to your personal life, even your parents want you to settle down. My parents started looking for a guy for me. A lot of suitors came to see me. But we couldn't have a match with them. We wanted to, but they couldn't reach the position I was (in)," the actor-politician said. "That's the difficult part. The fact is that you become so (big)... It is the most uncomfortable and difficult place to be in and I have stayed there for a long time," she 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.) Eight fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly fishing in their territorial waters off Thalaimannar coast today, the police said here today. According to information reaching here, the Sri Lankan Navy also seized the boat and have taken the fishermen to Thalaimannar district naval camp, they said. The fishermen are from Thangachimadam in Rameswaram, the police said. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Information Technology Minister M Manikandan told reporters in Ramanathapuram that the state government will take up the matter of the arrest with the Centre. On October 12, five fishermen from here were arrested by the Sri Lankan navy for allegedly fishing off Neduntheevu. (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 new endowment fund has been launched in memory of South African Indian-origin anti- apartheid activist Ahmed Timol, who was murdered 46 years ago. Charitable organisation Awqaf South Africa announced the establishment of the fund in the wake of a historic high court ruling last Friday, which said that Timol, then 29, was murdered while in detention at the notorious John Vorster Square police station in central Johannesburg. Apartheid-era security police had claimed that Timol committed suicide by jumping out of the window of an upper floor of the building while being questioned. While announcing the launch of the 'Awqaf South Africa Ahmed Timol Endowment Fund', Awqaf SA Chairman, Haroon Kalla, said it was a fitting tribute to a struggle hero. "He was a fearless young man who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that others could bask in the light of constitutional freedom," Kalla said, adding that beneficiaries of the endowment fund would be young people involved in political and developmental studies. "We feel that this would be the best way to honour the memory of Ahmed Timol, and we are excited to make this announcement at such an important juncture," Kalla said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Food connoisseurs are in for a royal treat, thanks to the 'Dining with the Maharajas' festival by the Leela Ambience Convention Hotel here. The festival promises to take food lovers on a journey across the subcontinent, as they relish some of the sumptuous dishes from the royal estates of India. The first junction in the festival was Mahmoodabad, one of the largest feudal estates in the erstwhile kingdom of Awadh. Chef de Cuisine Ashwani Kumar Singh from the hotel, travelled all the way to holy city of Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh, to acquaint himself with the quintessential flavours, and recreated not just the royal cuisine of the estate, but also the popular street food. The elaborate Dastarkhwan -- the meticulously laid-out ceremonial dining spread -- comprised of flavoursome Mahmoodabad specialities such as Murgh Mussallam, Gosht Makhana Kurma, Matter Latpata, Paneer Hazrat Mahal, Laab- i- Mashooq and much more. "Laden with the finest and the most varied repertoire of the khansamas (chefs), the Dastarkhwan of the raeis (the rich) were called Khasa (special). "Richness of the cuisine of Awadh (now Lucknow) is the result of the continuous experimentation of Nawabs in their royal kitchens," Chef Ashwani said. From the diverse kebab platter, both vegetarian -- Subz kakori, Kathal ki shammi, Mewe ka samosa, and non-vegetarian -- Gole kebab, Kebab miyanpuri, Shammi kebab, to the 'live counter' serving treats from the streets -- Aloo tikki/Dahi bara, Khasta, Kharche-ka-anda, Khade masala ka keema, the dishes were hard to miss. Explaining what 'Kharche-ka-anda' was, the chef explained, "It's a deep fried egg. Crispy on the outside and is very fluffy on the inside with a soft yolk." The main course was a delight to meat lovers, who could choose from an array of meats -- mutton, fish, chicken, lamb and prawns -- in a variety of preparations like qorma, kalia or salan. Vegetarians were not disappointed either, with unique dishes like Lazeez lauki, Dhingri Shabnam Rakhaochey, Dabi arvi ka salan, and Dum aloo Lucknowi. The complementing rice and bread options were plenty. They could choose from Noor-Mahli Pulao, Zardha, Kathal Pulao, to Gilafi Kulcha, Sheermal Bhaqarkhani, Ananas ke paranthe, Nawabi Paratha, Khamiri naan and Khamiri roti. The meal was brought to a close with an assortment of sweet dishes typically popular in the region -- Seviyan Ka Muzzafar, Dhood ki burfi, Hari man bhari, Shahi tukra, Imerti rabri lacha, Kali jam, Chane ka halwa and Shahi tukra. The following stops in the food festival include the royal estates of Hyderabad, and Mewar among others. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Five members of two related families, including a three-year-old boy, were today found dead under suspicious circumstances on the city outskirts, with police suspecting it to be a case of suicide. The deceased might have taken the extreme step over their financial losses, the investigators said. Their bodies were found at two locations in Shankarpalli area on the city outskirts, a day after a missing complaint was lodged with the police by their relatives. The deceased were identified as Prabhakar Reddy (30), his wife Madhavi (26), and their three-year-old son. The other two bodies were those of Reddy's elder sister Lakshmi (42) and her 16-year-old daughter, police said. "The bodies of Lakshmi, Madhavi, and the teenage girl were found in the bushes, and those of Prabhakar Reddy and his son inside a car," said Deputy Commissioner of Police Vishwa Prasad, who ruled out any foul play in the incident. The two locations are around two kms apart, he said. "Stock broker Prabhakar Reddy, an MBA graduate, had invested heavily the funds belonging to his relatives and friends in the market, but was being pressured by some of them lately to return the money," the DCP said. Lakshmi and her husband Ravinder Reddy, along with her family members, were among those who had invested in the market through Prabhakar, the DCP said, adding that Lakshmi recently invested Rs 70 lakh through him. "Based on the preliminary investigation, financial reasons are suspected to be the cause behind their extreme step. We are investigating whether they suffered any losses. It will be known only after accessing the bank and demat accounts and their investment transactions," he said. Another senior police official supervising the probe said, "Our primary assessment is that it is a suicide case. It could be poisoning, wherein Reddy may have made them consume a drink laced with some poisonous chemicals and later abandoned the bodies at the bushes." Reports from the post-mortem and Forensic Science Laboratory are awaited, which could throw more light on the cause of their deaths. "As of now, a case under section 174 of the CrPC (suspicious death) has been registered and further probe is on," the DCP said. Earlier today, Cyberabad Police Commissioner Sandeep Shandilya said the bodies of the two women and the teenage girl were initially found in the bushes, from where "insecticide smell" was emanating. "After searching the scene by a police team, it seemed somebody dropped them (the three deceased) in a vehicle. A car was found at a distance of two kms, wherein bodies of a man and a boy were found inside the vehicle, from where also the insecticide odour was coming", he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 30-year-old self-proclaimed godman bobbitised himself in Taranagar of Churu district today, police said. Santosh Das severed his penis after a man in his neighbourhood accused him of having a illicit relationship with a woman in the area, police sources said. After initial treatment in Taranagar, Das has been referred to a Bikaner hospital. He is said to be stable now. Police said his statement was yet to be recorded. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Posters, attributed to militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen, have appeared in parts of Kashmir warning the migrant population to leave the Valley by October 25. The police, however, dismissed the posters as a "mischief" in the wake of increasing incidents of mysterious braid-chopping incidents in the state. "The non-locals mostly work here as labourers. It seems someone has played a mischief," Director General of Police S P Vaid said. With an increase in braid-chopping incidents over the past month, self-appointed vigilante groups have surfaced in parts of Kashmir who beat up people suspecting them to be the perpetrators. These groups have largely targeted the local Kashmiri people, some migrant labourers and tourists have also been caught in the crosshairs of the vigilante groups. On October 5, a septuagenarian died after a young man hit him with a stone under the impression he was the one behind the mysterious incidents. Police has set up special investigation teams at district levels to investigate the cases of braid chopping and announced a reward of Rs 6 lakh for information leading to the arrest of the culprits, but has so far failed to make any headway. Police officials claim non-cooperation of victims in their investigation as one of the reasons for the unsolved cases. In some cases, though, it has come to light that people were using these incidents as an excuse to settle scores. Vaid earlier this week said a mass hysteria was being generated by vested interests to whip up tension in the Valley. According to the police, more than 100 braid-chopping incidents have been reported, out of which 63 were related to people who were either being treated for mental illness or were under the influence of local godmen. Separatists and militant groups in the Valley have blamed security agencies for orchestrating braid-chopping incidents for creating panic among the people. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Noted Indian-American attorney Ajay Raju has been honoured with the third American Bazaar Philanthropy award in recognition of his philanthropic activities in the US. "Raju was honoured for his commitment to revive Philadelphia through the Germination Project," said Asif Ismail, publisher of The American Bazaar, an online ethnic publication about Indian-Americans. "The Germination project is a signature initiative of the Pamela and Ajay Raju Foundation that recruits talented teenagers and prepare them to be tomorrow's leaders," Ismail said in a statement. Previous recipients of the award include, Indian-American philanthropist Frank Islam and Suri Sehgal, founder of the SM Sehgal Foundation. In his remarks on the occasion, Islam underscored the need of philanthropy. Raju, he said, has done a fabulous job in regenerating the city of brotherly love. "We are living in an increasingly dangerous world and times. World peace is essential for the future of this planet. There is much deadly conflict now and threats of it around the globe which must be controlled," he said. Recognising this, he has supported both the US Institute for Peace and the Woodrow Wilson Center, which bring scholars and practitioners to develop programmes to try to find peaceful means for conflict resolution, Islam said. Navneet S Chugh, a California-based attorney, said the US has a rich tradition of charity and giving. India and Indian-Americans still have a long way to go, as he citied some of the recent figures with regard to non- profits. Last year Americans gave USD 500 billion in donations to charities. As many as 70 percent of this was given by individuals and only five per cent came from corporate sector. One third of the donations went for religious purposes, 20 per cent went to education and 10 per cent to social services. (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 country's second largest software services firm Infosys today said it will announce financial results for the second quarter on October 24. "Infosys will announce the results for its second quarter ended September 30, 2017 on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 around 3:45 pm Indian Standard Time," Infosys said in a BSE filing. In a departure from its usual practice, Infosys has delayed the announcement of results by a couple of days -- it typically announces its financial numbers at the beginning of the earnings season. Moreover, the company has opted to release results after the trading hours, against usual drill of a morning announcement. Its larger rival, Tata Consultancy Services announced its second quarter earnings last week, while others are slated to do so in the coming days. The Bengaluru-based firm had been in the eye of a storm over the past few months, with founders and erstwhile board members clashing over allegations of corporate governance lapses and irregularities in Infosys' USD 200-million Panaya acquisition. The spat -- often public -- culminated in the sudden resignation of the then CEO Vishal Sikka and exit of four board members, including ex-Chairman R Seshasayee. They blamed founder N R Narayana Murthy's "misguided campaign" for the abrupt exit of Sikka. Infosys, on August 24, then named co-founder Nandan Nilekani as its new Non-Executive Chairman, bowing to the demands of co-founders and large institutional investors. Nilekani, at the time of taking over had promised that bringing stability to Infosys would be on the top of his priority list. He had also stated that he would review the strategy and present in October the future blueprint for Infosys. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Iraqi forces took control of the two largest oil fields in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk today demolishing Kurdish hopes of creating a viable independent state. The Kurds withdrew without a fight after federal government troops and militia entered the city of Kirkuk and seized the provincial governor's office and key military bases in response to a Kurdish vote for independence last month. The fields accounted for around 250,000 barrels per day of the 650,000 bpd that the autonomous Kurdish region exported under its own auspices and their loss deals a huge blow to its already parlous finances and its dreams of economic self- sufficiency. Iraqi forces took down the red, white, green and yellow Kurdish flags that had flown over the pumping stations of the Bai Hassan and Havana oil fields and raised the national flag, an AFP photographer reported. The fields' Kurdish technicians had halted production and fled yersterday evening ahead of the entry of federal government troops and police. Police Colonel Ahmed Modhi hailed the restoration of federal control over the two fields, which the Kurds had taken over during the chaos that followed the Islamic State group's lightning advance through northern and western Iraq in 2014. "It's a national resource and it belongs to Iraq, just like the natural resources of the country as a whole," Modhi told AFP. Oil exports via a pipeline through neighbouring Turkey account for a significant share of the autonomous Kurdish government's revenues. They have always riled Baghdad which views them as a breach of the constitution that makes them a federal responsibility. The autonomous Kurdish region is already going through its worst economic crisis after Baghdad severed its air links with the outside world and neighbouring Iran closed its border to trade in oil products. "With the loss of these fields, Kurdish finances have been cut in half," French geographer and Kurdistan specialist Cyril Roussel told AFP. "It spells the end of Kurdistan's economic self- sufficiency and of the dream of independence." Roussel said that without the revenues from Kirkuk oil, the Kurds would never have set in motion the September 25 referendum that delivered a resounding 'yes' for independence but at the cost of triggering military intervention by Baghdad. "It was only after the annexation of the two Kirkuk fields in July 2014 that Kurdish president Massud Barzani started to talk of independence. Before, he spoke only of autonomy." Kirkuk lies outside the autonomous region but is one of a string of historically Kurdish-majority territory that the Kurds have long wanted to incorporate in it against the wishes of Baghdad. Kurdish forces took over many of them in 2014 when units of the Iraqi army disintegrated in the face of the jihadists' lightning advance. But since entering the city of Kirkuk yesterday, government forces have moved to retake them one by one. Today, troops and militia entered the Yazidi Kurdish town of Sinjar after peshmerga forces withdrew without a fight, the Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force said. They also entered the town of Khanaqin, on the Iranian border, and three other towns in Diyala province northeast of Baghdad, a provincial security official told AFP. Sinjar, in the northwest, is infamous as the site of one of the Islamic State group's worst atrocities, when it killed thousands of Yazidi men and abducted thousands of women and girls as sex slaves in August 2014. Tens of thousands of civilians fled into the nearby mountains in appalling conditions, helping to trigger US intervention against the jihadists. The Yazidis are Kurdish-speaking but follow their own non-Muslim faith that earned them the hatred of the Sunni Muslim extremists of IS. Kurdish forces captured Sinjar from IS in 2015 and the town's loss is a symbolic blow for the Kurdish leadership. Ten peshmerga fighters were killed as they exchanged artillery fire with the army before it entered Kirkuk yesterday but otherwise its advance has been largely bloodless. That has been helped by a sharp division within Kurdish ranks over last month's independence referendum. Peshmerga forces loyal to the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, historic rival of Barzani's Kurdistan Democratic Party, withdrew under an agreement with Baghdad, officials said. The KDP accused the PUK of "betrayal". The PUK, the party of Iraqi President Fuad Masum, had supported a UN-backed plan for negotiations with Baghdad in exchange for dropping the referendum called by Barzani. But KDP peshmerga too pulled out without a fight in the face of the federal government's advance. It was they who abandoned Sinjar and the two Kirkuk oil fields. In Kirkuk, the army's 12th Division was able to restore some of its wounded pride from the collapse of 2014, as its armoured cars entered its former K1 base in the northwest of the city yesterday. Today, as it became clear that the feared bloodshed was not going to materialise, some of the tens of thousands of Kurdish residents who had fled the city began to return to their homes, security sources said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Steel tycoon has donated $25 million to the prestigious Harvard University with an aim to increase engagement with South Asian countries, including India. The donation will establish an endowed fund for the South Asia Institute at the university. The institute spearheads Harvard's engagement with South Asian countries, including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka as well as diaspora populations from these countries, the university said in a statement. As a result of the endowment from the Mittal Foundation, Harvard's South Asia Institute would be called as South Asia Institute at Harvard University, it said. Founded in 2003, the South Asia Initiative became a University-wide interdisciplinary institute in 2010 under the leadership of its current faculty director, Indian-American Tarun Khanna, the Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at Harvard Business School. "We are so grateful for the Mittal family's support and what it will enable us to learn and share across the sciences, social sciences, and the humanities and the many people and institutions it will allow us to engage," said Khanna. "International centers like the South Asia Institute at Harvard University serve as a vital conduit between the University and the world we study," said Harvard President Drew Faust. "The generous support from the Mittal family is a testament to both the important work being done by this community of scholars and students and the continuing impact it will have in the region," Faust added. South Asia has played a dynamic and influential role in the development of our world since the very first civilisations, said 67-year-old Mittal, chairman and CEO of ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel company. "Ensuring that we fully understand its history and unique dynamics is a critical enabler in helping to shape a successful future," he added. As someone who was born in India, the long-term prosperity of India and its neighbouring countries "matters a great deal to me and my family," Mittal told Harvard Gazette in an interview. "Harvard is one of the world's greatest learning institutions, with a unique ability to facilitate dialogue and drive thinking and progress," he said. The Mittal family has long supported educational endeavours and public policy development in India as a means of positioning the country and the region for future success, the university said. Bollywood dancing diva Madhuri Dixit is all set to make her debut in a Marathi film. The 50-year-old actor, whose career in Hindi films spans over three decades, is set to feature in a slice-of-life Marathi movie that revolves around the self-realisation journey of a woman with a dash of humour attached to its narrative style. Talking about the project, Madhuri said, "It is a story of every household yet it has a silver lining. It not only gives you hope and inspiration but also encourages you to live life in the true sense. "The most fascinating factor for me to choose it is that it is going to carve a niche in everyone's heart." The yet-to-be-titled film will be directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar, who has co-written the script along with Devashree Shivadekar. On what took her a long time to take up a Marathi project, the "Dedh Ishqiya" actor said it was the right script for her. "Marathi cinema is evolving so beautifully and seeing such incredible stories being told makes me beam with pride. I have received a number of scripts over the years since doing a Marathi film was always something I was open to. "But the scripts didn't excite me as this one did. When I read this script, it stood out and with the amazing team behind it, I knew that this is what I wanted to be a part of," she said. The film is co-produced by Subhedar and Aarti Subhedar of Blue Mustang Creations, along with Vivek Rangachari and Arun Rangachari of Dar Motion Pictures. The movie is in pre-production stage and will go on floors by the year end. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Under attack by NCP chief Sharad Pawar over summonses to young netizens over their posts on social media, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today said action was taken only against those who sought to create social unrest. Maintaining that his government was not against criticism, Fadnavis said, "I have seen Sharad Pawar's statement and have sent him all the details. People keep writing against us. We are not averse to criticism." Fadnavis said summonses were issued to 11 youngsters, who had used derogatory language against Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji and B R Ambedkar in their social media posts. "These people tried to create social unrest by making fake accounts. Summonses were also issued to those who liked or forwarded the derogatory posts. There is no reason to let them go scot-free," the chief minister told reporters. Pawar had recently interacted with the youngsters who were issued summonses by the cyber cell of the police and offered them free legal aid. The NCP chief alleged that the BJP-led government was intolerant of criticism and claimed that the right to freedom of expression was being curtailed. Fadnavis also defended the suspension of a police constable in Ahmednagar district for criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a WhatsApp post, saying the government service rules did not allow them do that. "The decision (to suspend the constable) was not taken suddenly. Over a period of two months he had posted not only against the prime minister but also other leaders. The government will not tolerate any posts against it by its employees or else there will be anarchy," he said. The policeman, Ramesh Shinde, was posted as a bodyguard of Congress MLA and former minister Balasaheb Thorat. Fadnavis described the recent controversy over the empanelment of advertising agencies to publicise the government's work and policies as a "misinformation campaign". Despite the fact that the annual budget of the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations, which empanelled the agencies, is just Rs 50 crore, some in the opposition claimed that the exercise would cost Rs 300 crore, he said. Every government has been empanelling agencies for the last 20 yars after inviting tenders. Today, social media is a mainstream media in itself. First there were only newspapers, then came in TV channels and now is the time of social media, he said. Our job is to communicate with the masses using all the available media, the chief minister said. The opposition, particularly the Congress and NCP, had assailed the government over its decision. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 25-year-old man was allegedly shot dead by two motorcycle-borne persons in the Minthouse area here, the police said today. The deceased has been identified as Shravan Kumar Mishra, a native of Ambedkar Nagar district. He had come here to meet someone, they said. The assailants shot him during late last night, the police said, adding that he suffered a bullet injury in his stomach. He was rushed to the BHU trauma centre but succumbed to his injuries during treatment, they added. A case had been registered against unidentified persons, the police said, adding that investigation is on to nab the assailants. In another incident, a manager of a liquor shop was shot at and injured by two motorcycle-borne miscreants in the Phulwaria area last night, the police said. Rajnikant Tiwari was shot at by masked miscreants when he was returning home from his shop, they said. He was carrying a cash of Rs 50,000 in his bag which the miscreants snatched and fled after injuring him, the police said. He was rushed to a nearby hospital in Sigra locality where he is undergoing treatment, they said, adding that his condition is stated to be stable. Police have registered a case and a probe is on. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A mob instigated by anti-national elements and over ground workers of the Hizbul Mujahideen militant group today set on fire a house belonging to a slain PDP leader, who was gunned down by militants in the Shopian district of south Kashmir. Mohammed Ramzan Sheikh, a former sarpanch, was killed by militants last night at his house located at Humhuna of Shopian. Sheikh's family members had a scuffle with the assailants in which one of the militants identified as Showkat Ahmed was also killed. As the mourners were gathering at the residence of Sheikh, a mob mainly comprising of over ground workers of Hizbul Mujahideen and other anti-national elements attacked the house, police said. Immediately, police swung into action and rescued the family members which included Sheikh's mother, Rafiqa, wife Nusrat Begum, brother Farooq Ahmed Sheikh, his two sons and two daughters. Terming it as inhumane, Director General of Police S P Vaid said, "The family had not even condoled the death of their loved one properly before such a senseless act instigated by terrorists was perpetrated on them in less than 24 hours." "Tears of two small daughters and two sons may not have dried off their cheeks and they had to witness inhumanity once again. Its a shameless act," Vaid said. He said that an FIR has been registered against the rioters. Strict action as per law will be take against those involved in the incident, Vaid said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former President Pranab Mukherjee today lamented that Indian universities lagged far behind top educational institutes in the world and stressed the need for research and innovation. At a function here to mark the 200th birth anniversary celebrations of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the founder of the Aligarh Muslim University, Mukherjee said Indian varsities needed to focus more on research. "We have failed to give due importance to basic research and innovation in our institutions of higher learning," Mukherjee said. He said the vision of India was based on a scientific outlook that generated from an "open mind". Mukherjee added that AMU highlighted Indian nationalism and ethos. Students from different religious, ethnic and cultural backgrounds studied and worked in the university, the former president said. Hundreds of old students of AMU who attended the bicentenary celebrations pledged to make AMU a leading world class institution. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two Myanmar photographers who were detained while reporting on the Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh were allowed to fly home today, their lawyer said. Minzayar Oo and Hkun Lat were arrested in September in the border district of Cox's Bazar, where more than 582,000 Rohingya Muslims have sought refuge from army-led violence scorching through Myanmar's Rakhine state since August 25. The pair were accused of espionage and charged with "false impersonation" for using tourist visas instead of journalist visas to enter Bangladesh, according to their lawyers. The case was lambasted by rights groups and further strained ties between Myanmar and Bangladesh, which has struggled to absorb the staggering tide of weary Rohingya cramming into makeshift refugee camps on its side of the border. The Myanmar journalists, who were on assignment for Hamburg-based magazine Geo, were released on bail on September 23 but unable to leave the country until Tuesday, according to their lawyer Jyotirmoy Barua. "The boys finally managed to leave the country today," he told AFP. "They may have to come back to attend a court hearing in November," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Indian Navy's Poseidon 8I long-range reconnaissance aircraft has joined the search for the 10 Indian crew members, who went missing after their cargo ship sank in the Pacific off the Philippines last week. Navy officials said the aircraft covered an area 24,000 square nautical miles around the last known position of the cargo ship Emerald Star but was yet to sight any survivors. On Friday, the 33,205-tonne cargo ship sank off Okinawa. Sixteen Indians have been already rescued, while a search was still on for 10 other missing Indians. Indian missions in Japan, the Philippines and China were coordinating the search operation. The Navy officials said crew of the P 8I aircraft sighted an inverted lifeboat and the information was sent to the Japanese Coast Guard (JCG) to investigate. "JCG ship reported that it has already encountered/ searched the boat and didn't find any survivors or bodies," said a Navy official. The Indian Navy had sent the maritime reconnaissance aircraft to the Philippines yesterday to join the search operation for the 10 Indians. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Commission for Women (NCW) is looking into alleged marriages of minor girls in Hyderabad to senior citizens from West Asia and other countries. Telangana women's commission chairperson Tripurana Venkata Ratnam today said the NCW had formed a formal inquiry committee for this. "The committee will inquire into issues of minor Muslim girls marrying Arab sheikhs," Ratnam told reporters here. Ratnam and NCW member Alok Rawat, who is probing the matter, held meetings here with state government officials, police and others. Rawat said the Prime Minister's Office had expressed concern over the issue. "It wanted a team to immediately visit Hyderabad and find out the facts," he said. The PMO wanted it to see what "possible steps could be taken so that such incidents are minimised, if not eliminated", Rawat said. Minor girls were being married off in other parts of the country, too, he said. "Child marriages are bad irrespective of where they take place and irrespective of any religious connotations," he said. Indian nationals involved in the marriages of minor girls to senior citizens from foreign countries would be dealt with under the laws of the land, he added. Procedural aspects involving travel abroad in the case of such marriages needed to tightened and awareness increased to prevent such unions, he said. Ratnam claimed minors married to foreigners were not taken abroad as wives. "They are not taking these minority girls after marriage as wife. They are taking them as women labour," she said. The government needed to check irregularities allegedly involving 'qazis', Ratnam said, adding that the inquiry report could be prepared within a week. Replying to a query, she said a complaint had been lodged by the mother of a victim in Hyderabad. A police probe into the case revealed the alleged role of 30 middlemen and women and of a 'qazi', she added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Twenty AAP MLAs, facing the prospects of disqualification for allegedly holding office of profit, have sought a deferment of submission of their replies to the Election Commission claiming that the matter was sub- judice before the Delhi High Court, party legislators said today. They have also told the poll panel that the issues raised by the Delhi chief secretary in a submission to the commission had already been answered by them. The MLAs also sought to know who among the three election commissioners would hear their case as one of them, O P Rawat, had recused himself. Incumbent Chief Election Commissioner A K Joti is the only one who had been a part of the proceedings as newly- appointed election commissioner Sunil Arora has not heard the case so far. AAP's Kasturba Nagar MLA Madanlal said lawyers have submitted an application to the Election Commission yesterday, saying that since the matter was sub-judice before the Delhi High Court, filing of the reply should be "deferred". Another AAP MLA also confirmed the submission of application before the Election Commission, seeking deferment of the filing of reply as the matter was before the High Court. The Election Commission is currently hearing the office of profit proceeding against 20 AAP MLAs. Reacting to this, advocate Prashant Patel, who is the petitioner in the case, said that since the AAP MLAs had not filed their reply, the poll body was now free to pass a judgement in the case. "AAP MLAs have refused to file reply to Chief Secretary's submission, challenging authority of EC & its quorum. EC is now free to pass order. Chief Secretary had furnished all documents confirming profit gained by AAP MLAs. HC has no locus standi since it's a reference case from the President," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Deepika Padukone said she feels extremely fortunate to have teamed up with Sanjay Leela Bhansali for the upcoming "Padmavati", shooting for which has been an "exhausting" experience. The 31-year-old actor has previously worked with Bhansali in "Goliyon Ki Rasleela: Ram Leela" and "Bajirao Mastani". Deepika said playing Queen Padmavati has been one of the most memorable roles of her career. "I feel extremely fortunate to have worked repeatedly with someone like Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Over five years and three consecutive films, back to back, in extremely challenging, empowering and powerful roles that he is known to give women. "'Padmavati' has been an extremely exhausting experience... We shot non-stop for almost seven-eight months. I feel certain characters don't leave your system," she said. The period-drama features Shahid Kapoor as Maharawal Ratan Singh, Rajput ruler and husband of Padmavati, played by Deepika. Ranveer Singh, will be seen as Alauddin Khilji, the Delhi sultan, who falls in love with Padmavati. Deepika was speaking at the launch of veteran actor Hema Malini's biography "Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl". Hema recalled shooting for Gulzar's "Meera" on a minuscule budget, in which she played the titular Rajputi princess who is devoted to Lord Krishna. Deepika added the budgets have surely increased today but a filmmaker would still need more money to justify his vision completely. "Padmavati" releases on December 1. (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.) An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan today sentenced a woman to death for the "brutal and gruesome" murder of her husband by throwing acid on him. The Multan court sentenced Yasmeen to death on two counts while also handing her a life imprisonment sentence after finding her guilty of murdering her husband Muhammad Imran Ashraf. Judge Malik Khalid Mehmood, in his verdict, said Yasmeen had been found guilty of "the brutal and gruesome murder of her husband". "The convict sprinkled acid on Muhammad Irfan Ashraf, entailing his death," Dawn reported, quoting the verdict. A first information report had been registered against Yasmeen at Ludden Vehari Police Station in Multan on June 23, it said. Yasmeen was sentenced to death under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 and the Pakistan Penal Code. She has also been made liable to pay a fine of Rs 20,000, the report said. Police have registered a case against a woman who threw acid on his husband for contracting a second marriage. Earlier, media reports said Yasmeen was upset over her husband's second marriage and had thrown a bucket of acid on him while he was asleep. Ashraf, who sustained 35 per cent burns on his body, was immediately shifted to the District Headquarters hospital, from where he was shifted to Nishtar Hospital in Multan. Pakistan lifted its moratorium on the death penalty in 2015. Since then, a total of 465 prisoners have been executed, according to a report by Justice Project Pakistan released in July. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Philippine troops were today hunting down a Malaysian militant tipped to take over as the head of the Islamic State group in Southeast Asia, after the killing of the organisation's former leader. Mahmud Ahmad is the top remaining target for Philippine forces battling to end the nearly five-month siege of Marawi that has claimed more than 1,000 lives and left the Muslim- majority city in ruins. The military claimed a major breakthrough yesterday when it announced the death of Isnilon Hapilon, said by President Rodrigo Duterte and security analysts to be a key figure in the IS push to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate as they suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. "Mahmud remains... one of our high-value targets in the operations being conducted," military spokesman Major-General Restituto Padilla said Tuesday. He added troops were fighting in a zone comprising about 60 to 80 buildings in the ruined city. "We are focused on a ground offensive because the fighting is too close." Padilla said Mahmud Ahmad was among 20 to 30 militants, including up to eight foreign fighters, remaining in Marawi, Padilla said. They are still holding about 20 hostages. Terrorism expert Ahmad Kumar Ramakrishna from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies said if Mahmud Ahmad survived he would likely take over the leadership of IS-linked fighters in the southern Philippines. The militant is also reported to be a university lecturer in his home country who was in charge of raising finances from abroad for the jihadists and recruitment. Pro-IS gunmen occupied parts of Marawi, the Islamic capital of the mainly Catholic Philippines, on May 23 following a foiled attempt by security forces to arrest Hapilon, authorities said. The military said Monday Hapilon -- who figured on the US "most wanted terrorists" list -- was killed in a dawn offensive alongside Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers who allied with Hapilon to plot the takeover of the city. Since then more than 1,000 people have been killed and 400,000 residents displaced as insurgent were hit with a relentless US-backed bombing campaign and intense ground battles with troops. The restive south of the Philippines is home to a decades-old Muslim separatist insurgency and to extremist gangs that have declared allegiance to IS, including notorious kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf and Maute groups. On Tuesday, the military said it raised the alert level in a part of the southern Philippines as it warned against retaliatory attacks from sympathisers of the militants. The directive included tightening border security to prevent militants from moving around the archipelago. The United States, a longtime defence ally of the Philippines, vowed on Tuesday to support the military's final push in Marawi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Britains Prince William and wife Kate Middleton today revealed that their third baby is due in April. "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April 2018," Kensington Palace said in a statement. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge had been forced to make an early announcement that they were expecting another baby last month when Kate missed a series of royal engagements due to severemorningsicknessorhyperemesis gravidarum. But the royal couple, both 35, made an official announcement of the babys due date today. Kate has since been recovering from her severe morning sickness and was seen at a mental health charity event at Paddington station in London yesterday after a long gap. "The Duchess is feeling much better but she has still not fully recovered," a royal aide had said after her appearance alongside her husband and brother-in-law Prince Harry at the event held to coincide the upcoming cinema release of 'Paddington 2'. Kate had suffered from the same sickness when she was pregnant with Prince George, now 4, and Princess Charlotte, who turned two this year. Her conditionmeant she had to miss out on dropping off George at the gates when he started primary school near Kensington Palace last month. The expected child will become the fifth in line to the throne behind Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. A change to the rule of male primogeniture which meant sons took precedence over their female siblings in Britain's line of succession had come into force in March 2015. The couplesthird child and Queen Elizabeth II's sixth great-grandchild will also push Williams brother Harry further down the succession line to sixth. While Kate is yet to resume her full royal schedule, Kensington Palace has announced that the royal couple will be undertaking a tour of Scandinavia at the request of the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). Kate will be well into her pregnancy when they arrive in Norway and Sweden early next year for a tour, the exact dates for which have not been confirmed yet. Prince William will meanwhile make a solo official visit to Finland at the end of November, also at the request of the FCO. The palace had originally planned for the couple to tour all three countries in November, but Kates morning sickness meant the trip to Norway and Sweden had to be postponed. William was always committed to visit Finland this year, as 2017 marks the centenary of the country's independence. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said the Centre was committed to extending all possible help to the people of Punjab's border areas and resolve their issues on priority. He stated this after Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh sought full support from the central government for the state's development programmes for the border areas, including a proposed special package for the region. Amarinder made the request to Rajnath Singh while accompanying him on a visit to Hussainiwala in Ferozepur, where the two leaders paid floral tributes to martyrs Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru at the National Martyrs Memorial. The two discussed various issues concerning the development and progress of the border areas. Amarinder later told mediapersons that the state government was fully sensitized to the hardships faced by the residents of the border areas. He said his government was working closely and proactively with the Centre to resolve various issues related to the farming community, which had a large presence in the region. Pointing out that Punjab has a 553 km-long sensitive international border comprising the districts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur and Fazilka, Amarinder told Rajnath that his government was considering a special package to create new social and industrial infrastructure, reserve jobs in government and seats in selected educational institutions for the residents. The new industrial policy of Punjab also provides for special incentives to these areas, he added. Seeking central governments support for the regions development, Amarinder urged the Centre to provide a special one-time infrastructure development package for improving the state's border areas. He also called for acquisition of land lying beyond the border fence by the government of India, as the same could never be optimally used for agriculture due to security restrictions by the Border Security Force (BSF). Till these pieces of land are acquired, the farmers should be compensated for loss to their livelihood due to border fencing, he added. The chief minister further sought liberal compensation by the Centre for land damaged or rendered ineffective for farming due to periodic military deployment. He reiterated the states demand for similar tax incentives and promotion schemes for the region as were being given to the hilly and north-eastern regions of the country. The border roads of this area should be taken up for special development and maintenance under the National Highway Programme, the chief minister said, adding that this would provide better access to the paramilitary and armed forces in securing the border while ensuring better connectivity for the regions development. Another issue raised by the chief minister related to the Integrated Check Post (ICP) spread over 118 acres in Attari and used as a major corridor for import and export of various commodities, as well as for cross-border passenger movement, between India and Pakistan. Amarinder urged the home minister to consider the establishment of a railway linked CFS/ICD in and around the Attari Railway Station to further boost cross-border trade. Pointing out that no ICPs exist at Hussainiwala and Fazilka, the chief minister said while the CWC had confirmed that it was not commercially feasible to set up a ICP at Hussainiwala, no feasibility study had been carried out by PSWC for setting up ICPs at these centres. The chief minister also discussed with Rajnath the issue of minimum support price (MSP) support for alternate crops, urging the Centre to consider providing Deficiency Price Payment Support to farmers to help them get crop remuneration as per MSP declared by it for all crops other than wheat and paddy. This, he said, would encourage farmers to shift to cultivation of alternative crops such as maize, soyabean, oilseeds and pulses, thus destroying the non-remunerative wheat-paddy crop cycle. Amarinder said his government had already come out with a comprehensive loan waiver scheme to mitigate the economic hardships of the states distressed farmers. The Home Minister, in his address to BSF personnel, lauded their efforts in safeguarding the border areas with utmost sincerity, dedication and valour. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today inaugurated the newly constructed viewers' gallery at the Indo-Pakistan Joint Check Post at Hussaniwala here. The new gallery will be able to accommodate over 5,000 visitors. Built at the cost of Rs 16.39 crore, the foundation stone of this gallery was laid down by then home minister, P Chibambaram, on October 22, 2010. Everyday, a large number of people come to witness the retreat drill here where the BSF sentinels and Pakistani Rangers exchange hostile gestures. The visitors' gallery which was earlier in existence was not sufficient to cater to the needs of the swelling number of visitors. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh was also present at the inauguration ceremony. Earlier, Rajnath and the chief minister paid floral tributes at the 'samadhi' of freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, an official release said. Later, they drove to the JCP, where they addressed BSF jawans and visited the BSF museum where the original pistol belonging to Bhagat Singh -- which was used in killings of British police officer John P Saunders -- has been kept, they said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP President Amit Shah today hit out at Kerala's CPI(M)-led LDF over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsiblity for the "killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers." Addressing party workers at the Puthrikandam maidan here on the conclusion of the party's 15-day 'Jan Raksha' Yatra in the state, Shah alleged that the 13 workers were killed after the present government came to power in May last year. "I am asking the Kerala chief minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsiblity for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power." "CM saheb, if you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology," he said. Shah said if the Marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of independence, "they are mistaken." "I will like to tell CPI(M) that it is not possible," the BJP chief said. He also asked Vijayan whether people had given him the mandate for elimination of BJP/RSS workers in the state. Earlier, Shah walked with party workers for about two km from the Martyr's column at Palayam to Putharikandam maidan, near the famous Padmanabhaswamy temple. The BJP chief waved and acknowledged greetings from thousands of BJP workers as he joined the yatra led by state party president, Kummanam Rajasekharan. He also paid tributes to party workers who had lost their lives in political violence in the state before addressing the public meeting. Shah had flagged-off the yatra at Payyannur in Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers, on October 3. The padayatra was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. Earlier, Rajesekharan denied allegations by the ruling CPI(M) and opposition congress that the march was to create communal divisions in the society. He also said the yatra had received 'tremendous' support from all sections of the people. Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan said the yatra was to save' the people of the state. The padayatra had criss-crossed 11 districts in the state with four chief ministers, including Yogi Aditiyanath of Uttar Pradesh, senior party leaders and Union ministers taking part in the high-pitched campaign against the ruling LDF. Remarks by BJP leaders also kicked up controversies as the march progressed. Adityanath wanted Kerala to learn from UP's record in health care and Goa chief minister Manohar Parikkar alleged that Kerala was being ruled by 'rogues', triggering counter remarks from the CPI-M. Shah had skipped the march through Pinarayi, the chief minister's home town, in Kannur district, as he had to rush to Delhi for an important meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah had walked about seven km from Payyannur to Pilathara in the district during the rally. Representatives of the NDA partners in the state-- Tushar Vellapally of BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena), Tribal leader C K Janu of Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, P C Thomas of Kerala Congress (Thomas) were among those who attended the public meeting. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Suicide bombers and gunmen launched an attack on a police training centre in southeastern Afghanistan today, officials said, in the latest violence to rock the war-torn country. The Taliban claimed responsibility in a tweet for the ongoing attack at the centre in Gardiz, capital of Paktia province, which borders Pakistan. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault", the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, according to the interior ministry statement. There were no immediate reports of casualties. A local official said two car bombs blew up near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing," Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. (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 Telangana government today proposed to convene the session of the state legislature from October 27. Proposals in this regard were sent to the legislature secretary, a release from the Chief Minister's office said. The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of the legislature would meet on October 26 and decide on the duration of the session, it said. Telangana has a bicameral legislature. Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao has decided to put forth a proposal that the schedule for the legislature session be prepared for a month with at least 15 to 20 working days, it said. Rao, who held a meeting with ministers and officials on the issue, said the government is ready to conduct the session for any number of days. "From the ruling side, let us ask for one months session. However, we have no objection to conduct the session for any number of days as requested by the Opposition. "We have no objection on whatever issues the Opposition raises. We are ready to debate on any issue," the release quoted him as saying. He said that there should be debate on the measures taken by the government for protection of Telugu language and also the proposed Telangana world Telugu conference. The state government has recently made Telugu a compulsory subject from first to 12th standard. Rao also favoured passing fresh resolutions on issues like bifurcation of High Court (between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) and sending them afresh to "exert pressure" on the Centre. "In the past Telangana Assembly had passed several resolutions and sent them to the Centre but the Centre did not respond. Hence, there is a need to once again to pass resolutions on the bifurcation of the High Court, women's reservations in the Parliament," the release said. The other issues on which fresh resolutions are proposed to be passed include increasing reservations for minorities and STs, Income Tax exemption for employees of state-run Singareni Collieries and establishment of AIIMS in Telangana. "Let us pass these resolutions once again and send it to the Centre there by exert pressure," the release quoted Rao as saying. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Tourism Minister Alphons Kannanthanam said today that the Taj Mahal was "India's pride" and core of tourism circuit, after a BJP MLA questioned the monument's place in the country's heritage. "Taj Mahal is India's pride. There is no doubt, we hold pride in Taj Mahal," he told a private channel here. He also said the government had "elaborate plans" for the historical monument. Stating that BJP's stand on the issue was very clear, Kannanthanam said, "Taj is core of tourism circuit. The UP government is developing new destinations and Taj is already hugely popular." Kannanthanam's comment comes a day after Uttar Pradesh BJP MLA Sangeet Som questioned the the 17th century architectural marvel place in India's heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. Som, the party's legislator from Sardhana, also distorted history to say it was built by an emperor who had imprisoned his father and targeted Hindus. Announcing that he would visit Agra next week to review tourism schemes, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said today that the Taj Mahal was a historical monument regardless of the emperor who had built it. "It is immaterial as to who and how the Taj Mahal was built... It was made by the sweat and blood of Bharat Mata's sons," the chief minister said in Gorakhpur. Som's comments on the Taj Mahal had come after the Adityanath government reportedly omitted the 17th century monument from an official booklet on tourist destinations. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) NRIs from Telangana are upset with the TRS government due to the poor state of civic infrastructure in Hyderabad and other issues, state BJP president K Laxman claimed here today. "They (NRIs) said they are regretting the family rule and the corruption resembling Congress (in Telangana)," Laxman, who visited the United States and met with Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), told reporters. The NRIs are pained over the problems in Hyderabad, including water logging and inundation of low-lying areas even after minor rainfall, traffic woes and pollution, he claimed. BJP welcomes those NRIs who are ready to sincerely work for people, he said. "The state Legislative Assembly session, proposed to begin from October 27, should constructively discuss the problems of farmers and alleged corruption involving ruling party leaders," he said. Hitting out at AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi for reportedly opposing Uttar Pradesh government's plan to install a statue of Lord Ram at Ayodhya, Laxman asked why didn't the Hyderabad MP oppose the Telangana government spending money "in the name of religion". "Why is Owaisi not questioning the (TRS) government distributing clothes, biryani...on the occasion of festivals," Laxman said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will deliver his first major policy speech on India tomorrow, two days after Finance Minister Arun Jaitley ended his week-long visit to America during which he raised some of the key issues of concern with the American leadership. Tillerson will deliver his remarks on "Defining Our Relationship with India for the Next Century" at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a top American think tank, a statement said. His first India policy speech after becoming the top American diplomat early this year, Tillerson's remarks comes ahead of President Donald Trump Asia visit which will take him to Japan, S Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. Tillerson had a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New York last month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meeting. US President Donald Trump hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over dinner at the White House in June. After coming to the White House, Trump has committed himself to strengthening relationship with India. Last week, Jaitley met Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross during his visit to the US which concluded on Tuesday. He raised some key issues of concern to India, including the H-1B visas. Early this month, the first consignment of American crude oil reached India and the Indian companies plan to purchase crude oil worth USD 2 billion in the next one year. India has also placed a large defence order with the US worth billions of dollars. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will deliver his first policy speech tomorrow on the US' bilateral relationship with India. Tillerson will deliver his remarks on 'Defining Our Relationship with India for the Next Century' at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a top American think tank, a statement said. His first India policy speech after becoming the top American diplomat early this year, comes ahead of President Donald Trump's Asia visit which will take him to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. Tillerson had a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New York last month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meeting. President Trump also hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House in June. After assuming office, Trump has committed himself to strengthening the US relationship with India. Last week, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley met Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross during his visit to the US which concluded today. He raised some key issues of concern to India, including on H-1B visas. Early this month, the first consignment of American crude oil reached India and Indian petroleum companies plan to purchase crude oil worth USD 2 billion from the US in the next one year. India has also placed a large defence order with the US worth billions of dollars. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ahead of his trip to Asian countries next month, US President Donald Trump has said that he may visit the demilitarised zone along the South Korea border with the North. Details of his trip are still being finalised. "We'll take a look at that. I didn't hear in terms of provoking, but we will certainly," Trump said when asked if he intended to go to demilitarised zone (DMZ) and if he is afraid of provoking North Korea by going to the DMZ. Trump said next month he will be travelling to South Korea, China, Japan, Vietnam and may be Philippines. "I look forward to all of them. We haven't set the details, as of this moment," he said. Trump's Asia travel from November 3 to 14 will underscore his commitment to longstanding American alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm its leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. "The President's travel will underscore his commitment to longstanding US alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm US leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region," Sanders said releasing an updated itinerary of the Asia travel next month. This would-be Trump's maiden trip to the region as the president of the US. Trump will commence his visit to Asia beginning with Japan on November 5. Trump will meet American and Japanese service members, and participate in bilateral meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who will also host the President for a meeting with the families of Japanese citizens abducted by the North Korean regime, Sanders said. During his visit to South Korea n November 7, Trump will participate in a bilateral meeting with President Moon Jae-in and visit American and South Korean service members. He will speak at the National Assembly, where he will celebrate the enduring alliance and friendship between the United States and the Republic of Korea, and call on the international community to join together in maximizing pressure on North Korea. "On November 8, President Trump will arrive in Beijing, China for a series of bilateral, commercial, and cultural events, including meetings with President Xi Jinping," Sanders said, adding that Trump will then travel to Danang, Vietnam, on November 10. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump has said that he does not want to fire former FBI director Robert Mueller who is investigating into allegations of Russian connections by Trump campaign, but urged for a speedy end to the probe. "No, not at all," Trump told reporters at a White House conference, when asked if he was considering firing Robert Mueller. "Well, I'd like to see it end," Trump said in response to another question on investigations being carried out by Mueller, who has been appointed by the Department of Justice to look into allegations of Russian interference in last year's presidential elections and any links it had with Trump's campaign. Last week, Mueller questioned Trump's former Chief of Staff Reince Priebus. Trump said, "the whole Russia thing was an excuse for the Democrats losing the election, and it turns out to be just one excuse". Trump defeated Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential elections. "I mean, today Hillary blamed Nigel Farage. That one came out of nowhere. So that was just an excuse for the Democrats losing an election that, frankly, they have a big advantage in the Electoral College. They should always be able to win in the Electoral College, but they were unable to do it," he said. "So there has been absolutely no collusion. It's been stated that they have no collusion. They ought to get to the end of it because I think the American public is sick of it," Trump said in response to a question. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Telecom operator is gifting 'eco-friendly' crackers containing soya or tulsi plant seeds to customers visiting its stores in Delhi. "As a part of these 'Super Celebrations', we are happy to announce the Green Diwali Campaign which aims to give our customers a great experience this Diwali," India Delhi and NCR Business head Alok Verma said in a statement. "Our specially designed eco-friendly crackers contain air purifying plant seeds that will bring about a change in the pollution levels of the city leading to a safer and healthier atmosphere for everyone," Verma added. In the gift pack, the company is giving 'super crackers' which are eco-friendly water soluble papers in form of cracker that carry soya or tulsi plant seeds. "The eco-friendly crackers will be available at all our stores giving our customers the opportunity to celebrate Green Diwali and be a part of the great awareness campaign against air pollution," Verma said. Also, customers visiting Vodafone stores will be able to design personalised GIF greetings that they can send to friends and family through social media. A woman today allegedly gave pesticide-laced soft drinks to her three daughters and attempted to commit suicide by consuming it at home here. According to police, the 35-year-old woman was said to be upset with her husband who used to quarrel frequently. The woman gave pesticide-laced soft drinks to her three daughters, in the age group of nine to 16, and also consumed it at her house in Papanaickenpalayam. Neighbours rushed them to the government hospital, where they are being treated and are said to be out of danger, police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Catherine Zeta-Jones has slammed producer Harvey Weinstein over his sexual-harassment scandal. The actor said she was shocked an disgusted by Weinstein's behaviour and felt "profoundly proud" of the women who came forward, reported Page Six. "That big old dinosaur of people who think a man is able to get away with that behaviour and has been getting away with it for years is extinct, as of now," Zeta-Jones said during a Women in Hollywood lunch in Cannes, France. Weinstein's lawyers had defended him as an "old dinosaur" learning new ways when the scandal first broke out. "It's hard to think that in 2017 we are still talking about this and that it's the lead story on international . You're never too big to fail. I really believe that if this is not the tipping point, it's at least some kind of turning point," she said. The actor, however, said she has personally never experienced harassment during her career. Zeta-Jones won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 2003 for the musical "Chicago", which was distributed by Harvey and Bob Weinstein's Miramax. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The deal, which would come at no cost for Airbus, would give the European planemaker a 50.01 percent interest in CSeries Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP), which manufactures and sells the jets, the companies said. Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders said the company has offered to assemble some of the narrowbody jets at its U.S. plant in Alabama for orders by American carriers. The U.S. assembly line would mean the 110-to-130-seat jets would not be subject to possible U.S. anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duties of 300 percent, Bombardier Chief Executive Alain Bellemare said on a media conference call. "This is a strategic decision. We're doing this deal here not because of this Boeing petition. We are doing this deal because it is the right strategic move for Bombardier. And it makes good strategic sense for Airbus," Bellemare said. A Boeing spokesman immediately dismissed the agreement as a "questionable deal between two state-subsidized competitors" to try to skirt a recent U.S. trade finding against the CSeries. The Boeing-Bombardier dispute has snowballed into a bigger multilateral trade dispute, with British Prime Minister Theresa May wading into the debate and asking U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene in order save British jobs. Bombardier is the largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland, which is the poorest of the United Kingdom's four nations and remains mired in political sensitivities after emerging from decades of armed sectarian conflict. BOOST FOR BELFAST On Monday, the leader of the Northern Irish party propping up Britain's minority government said Airbus's deal with Bombardier was "incredibly significant news" for Belfast. Talks for the deal between Airbus and Bombardier first started in August. Enders said the deal was different from an earlier round of talks in 2015, when he abruptly ordered an end to negotiations. He said the CSeries' performance had now been certified and entered service and was performing well. "It's an entirely different situation," he said. Delta Air Lines Inc said after the announcement of the deal that it looked forward to introducing the CSeries jet into its fleet. Under the deal, Bombardier will own about 31 percent, while Investissement Quebec, the investment arm of the province of Quebec, will hold 19 percent once the deal closes. Quebec's largest pension fund, which holds a 30 percent stake in Bombardier's rail division, said the decision "strengthens the company, improves its prospects for growth, and makes the company more robust over the long term." The Quebec government, through its financing arm, took a 49 percent stake in the CSeries program in 2015 for $1 billion. Quebec's share, most recently worth 38 percent, slipped to 19 percent following the deal with Airbus. The deal also provides Airbus warrants exercisable to acquire up to 100 million Class B Shares of Bombardier. Airbus will provide procurement, sales and marketing, and customer support expertise to CSALP, the companies said. There will be no cash contribution by any of the partners, nor will CSALP assume any financial debt, they said. Bombardier expects a $400 million loss in commercial aircraft this year, but has set a breakeven target for 2020. (Additional reporting by Ankur Banerjee in Bengaluru and Alana Wise in Atlanta; Writing by Denny Thomas; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila and Mary Milliken) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By Huw Jones LONDON (Reuters) - Any binding Brexit transition agreement is unlikely before the first quarter of next year, too late to stop some banks in London from pressing the "relocate" button, a British financial services lobby group said on Tuesday. Britain's financial sector is concerned that, with EU divorce talks bogged down by failure to agree the UK's exit bill, time is running out for a transition deal that would be of any use to businesses. TheCityUK, which promotes Britain's financial services sector abroad, said the value of such a deal is disappearing by the day and agreement would be needed in the first quarter of next year for financial businesses to reap any benefit and avoid fragmenting markets. "If they haven't done so already, most will be ready to press 'go' on their contingency plans in the New Year," said Miles Celic, chief executive of TheCityUK. "They can still take their foot off the accelerator if a transitional deal is agreed, but without progress soon, it may be too late," Celic said. Once businesses start moving, there is no reverse gear and the risk is that jobs and investment will head to Europe, he said. A transition period of at least two years -- the preferred option for Britain's banks -- should entail as close to full European market access as possible, he added. EU leaders meet on Thursday and Friday to discuss Brexit and a draft communique showed they won't adopt guidelines on possible transitional arrangements until December. Meanwhile, some pro-Brexit lawmakers have said that Britain should not be subject to European Court of Justice rulings and that no new EU rules should be implemented during any transition period. A UK financial industry official said there is no time to negotiate a bespoke transition deal to meet such demands. "If you are going to be in the club, you can only have the set menu," he said. The Bank of England has said that a transition deal is needed by Christmas, given the time it takes to approve new licences for the continuation of cross-border banking after Brexit in March 2019. If a political deal on transition is agreed between the EU and Britain, regulators would also need to give banks assurances that they would respect it when it comes to assessing risks, TheCityUK said. The Bank of England has said it would decide by year-end whether London branches of EU banks must become subsidiaries if there is no transition deal in sight. (Reporting by Huw Jones; Editing by David Goodman) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) LONDON (Reuters) - The regional policy chief of embattled ride-hailing company Uber is leaving to join ChargePoint, a U.S. electric-vehicle charging-network maker that has attracted major financial backing from European transport companies. Christopher Burghardt told in an interview on Tuesday that he plans to join ChargePoint early next month as its lead regional executive. He will oversee the Silicon Valley company's aggressive charging-point expansion plans in Europe. Uber faced a year of mounting scandals and regulatory battles after Burghardt signed on last September as policy and communications chief across the company's 45-country Europe, Middle East and Africa region. ChargePoint supplies charging hardware and software used to connect outlets. It owns no re-charging stations of its own but works like an AirBnB or Uber to create a network of locations and schedule bookings at available charge points. "The energy and mobility spaces are coming together," Burghardt said. "ChargePoint is really one of the leading companies in electric vehicle infrastructure - where the two trends meet." The company, which operates a network of 40,000 electric charging stations, mainly in the United States, raised $125 million this year in financing, led by German car maker Daimler and industrial giant Siemens. It has raised nearly $300 million since its founding a decade ago. Demand for electric cars depends on a network of charging points, which utilities, engineering groups, automakers and start-ups are vying to provide and control before the sector takes off. They plan to work with ChargePoint to build a recharging network in Europe, where it will face competition from French utility Engie, which has acquired Dutch firm EV-Box, and German electric utility Innogy. Both rivals are moving into ChargePoint's home market in the United States. (http://reut.rs/2gLhBe7) (http://reut.rs/2xMdk4T). In May, ChargePoint announced its most significant network deal in Europe to date by signing a pact with InstaVolt to supply it with 200 ChargePoint rapid charge systems. Before joining Uber, Burghardt spent seven years in business development, sales and public policy executive roles in Europe and the Middle East for U.S. solar-panel maker First Solar - a tough period of transition for the industry when European governments wound down incentives for solar producers. (Reporting by Eric Auchard in London and Christoph Steitz in Frankfurt, editing by Larry King) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Woodside and its partner, French oil and gas major Total , have targeted Myanmar as a key source of growth. The country is rich in gas and sits next to rapidly growing markets, including Thailand and China. Woodside said in August it planned to drill wells in two exploration blocks off the coast of Myanmar in the second half of this year. It said both blocks could hold "multi-trillion cubic feet" of gas. But the Australian company cancelled a tender for seismic work 10 days ago, after drilling at Blocks A-6 and AD-7 did not hit as much gas as hoped, the sources said. "They drilled (in A-6)... and found the gas but had to stop now because the company needs to evaluate commercial viability of the project... The results from two wells are not sufficient to decode whether the project is commercially viable or not," said a senior government official in Myanmar. The official said Woodside "didn't find the gas" they had expected in Block AD-7, so decided to re-appraise the situation and decide on further action next year. Woodside said the drilling had been completed, but declined to comment on whether a seismic tender had been cancelled. The company is due to give a quarterly update on Thursday. "Woodside has completed all of its planned drilling for 2017 and is continuing planning for 2018 activities, consistent with the advice provided in Woodside's 2017 half-year report," a Woodside spokeswoman said. Woodside Chief Executive Peter Coleman had told analysts in August the company expected to know after drilling in Block A6 that month whether the field was commercial. "We've already had some initial discussions on it, but assuming a success case on the current well in Block A6, we'll be ready to be inputting development proposals in front of government as to the pathway forward," Coleman said at the time. A person involved in bidding to carry out seismic exploration work said Woodside had sent a letter in early October cancelling the tender as it had failed to receive joint venture approval, and was deferring the work to the second or third quarter of 2018. The person declined to be named as the tender process is confidential. Woodside's partners in Block A-6 off Myanmar's southwest coast are France's Total and local firm MPRL E&P. Total did not respond to requests for comment. Its partner in Block AD-7 is South Korea's Posco Daewoo Corp. Posco Daewoo said there had been no change to plans for AD-7. TROUBLED ENVIRONMENT The sources said the delays were unrelated to the violent refugee crisis of Rohingya Muslims fleeing Myanmar, for which the government has come under international criticism. Yet analysts said the political crisis may have been a factor. "The worsening Rohingya crisis is an additional factor in an overall quite problematic operating environment now," said Jan Zalewski, head of Asia at risk consultancy Verisk Maplecroft. "Aside from challenging fiscal and commercial contexts for energy majors, regulatory capacity constraints, growing resource regionalism and unclear energy and economic policies create uncertainty," he added. The terms include income tax royalties on income and production, research and development payments and profit sharing with local companies. The delay is a potential blow to Myanmar's ambitious plans to develop its nascent energy sector, which struggles to keep up with demand. Energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie says that Myanmar has one of the lowest per capita electricity consumption rates in Asia, with around half the over 50 million population having no access to electricity. Wood Mackenzie said Myanmar's difficult environment may mean more oil firms will pull out. Other companies active in Myanmar's waters are Royal Dutch Shell and China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC)<601857.SS>. "Any proposed activity at these blocks is subject to review by the authorities, and it is too early to comment," a Shell spokeswoman said. CNPC was not available for comment. "Other operators will be in a similar position to Woodside and will have to decide on reducing, delaying or dropping drilling commitments (i.e. Blocks AD-5, AD-2, A-7 and A-4)," said Adrian Pooh, senior analyst for Southeast Asia at Wood Mackenzie. (Reporting by Antoni Slodkowski and Shoon Naing in YANGON and Sonali Paul in MELBOURNE; Additional reporting by Gavin Maguire in SINGAPORE and Jane Chung in SEOUL; Writing by Henning Gloystein; Editing by Lincoln Feast, Shri Navaratnam and Neil Fullick) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) TORONTO (Reuters) - Airbus SE has agreed to take a majority stake in Bombardier Inc's CSeries jetliner program, a deal that could allow the Canadian planemaker to sidestep U.S. tariffs threatened in a trade dispute with Boeing. Here are key details of the deal that was announced late on Monday: * Airbus will get a 50.01-percent stake in the program at no initial cost. Bombardier will own about 31 percent and Investissement Quebec, the investment arm of the Quebec government, will hold a 19-percent stake in the CSeries Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP), which makes and sells the jets. * Bombardier to issue warrants to Airbus which will convert into up to 100 million Class-B shares at an exercise price of C$2.29 each. The warrants will have a five-year term from the date of issue. * Bombardier needs to pay up to $700 million for up to 3 years for any cash shortfalls in the plane program after the deal closes in late 2018. At closing, there will be no cash contribution by any of the partners and CSALP will not assume any debt. * CSALP's headquarters and primary assembly line will stay in Quebec. * Airbus has offered to assemble some jets at its U.S. plant in Alabama for orders by American carriers, Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders said. * CSALP's seven directors will include four nominated by Airbus, two by Bombardier and one by Investissement Quebec. Airbus will name the chairman. * The boards of Airbus and Bombardier, and the Quebec government's cabinet, have approved the deal. It still needs the Canadian government's approval. * The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2018. (Reporting by John Tilak and Allison Lampert; Editing by Denny Thomas and Nick Zieminski) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (Reuters) - Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors Corp <7211.T> is planning to inject more than 600 billion yen ($5.35 billion) in capital spending and research and development (R&D) over the next three years through fiscal 2019 in a bid to turn around its business after recent scandals, the Nikkei said. The new plan calls for spending 5 percent of annual sales on equipment and the same proportion on R&D, the Nikkei reported.(http://s.nikkei.com/2geSr78) Funds will be used by the company for the development of electrified vehicles and for production in China and Indonesia. Mitsubishi Motors will release the specifics of the capital injection in a new medium-term plan due Wednesday, the business daily said. (Reporting by Sumeet Gaikwad in Bengaluru; Editing by Stephen Coates) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India is set to emerge as a key market for American crude exports in coming months, as refineries in India are ramping up "test" purchases of US grades to diversify their imports. US exports recently set a weekly record with nearly 2 million barrels of crude a day sent overseas. But shipments to India have been rare, with just a few deliveries since the US lifted its ban on crude exports in late 2015. Indian refineries are starting to increase purchases as the country seeks to secure more supply from outside the Middle East. Refiners are testing both US sweet and sour crudes in their facilities, a common practice when importing crude from new sources. "A lot of these (Indian refiners) want to see what it's like if they run it," said one Houston-based oil broker. "They want to get a taste of US crude." Those refiners are taking advantage of a widespread between US oil and other global benchmarks, which has created an attractive discount on American crude grades. Foreign refiners, including those in India, have bid up those physical grades against the US crude benchmark to multi-year highs, traders and brokers said. That includes onshore grades from the Permian Basin in West Texas and the Eagle Ford further east, as well as offshore US Gulf grades including Mars Sour and Southern Green Canyon. In June, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump met and discussed energy exports to India. Since then the Modi administration has been encouraging more crude imports by waiving some shipping requirements. Indian refiners Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum Corp and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited were given a special permission by the shipping ministry to import oil from the United States until March. "They've been stepping up to be a sizeable importer; they're looking to diversify away from the Middle East," said John Kilduff, partner at energy hedge fund Again Capital LLC in New York. The executive of India's state-owned Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd said in August the company was assessing whether US crude could replace Nigerian barrels; it made its first buy of US oil in September. One supertanker carrying nearly 2 million barrels discharged in India earlier this month, according to Eikon shipping data, while two other vessels carrying a combined 3 million barrels are set to arrive in November. Prior to this, US crude rarely went to India, with only one month this year - February - showing deliveries, according to US EIA data through July. In August, IOC bought 950,000 barrels of light sweet Eagle Ford shale oil and 950,000 barrels of heavy sour Mars crude for end-October delivery from trading firm Trafigura. In October the company bought 1 million barrels each of US Southern Green Canyon (SGC) and WTI Midland crude. In October, India's Reliance Industries Ltd, the world's largest refining complex, purchased 1 million barrels of Midland and a similar-sized cargo of Eagle Ford crude for November delivery. By Caroline Humer - UnitedHealth Group Inc, the largest U.S. health insurer, said earnings will grow 13 to 16 percent in 2018 as medical costs remain low, even as it adjusts to new healthcare rules that U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to put in place. UnitedHealth, the bellwether for the industry, is the first health insurer to report and its third-quarter earnings on Tuesday beat analysts' expectations. Its shares rose more than 5 percent, pulling rival insurers such as Anthem Inc, Aetna Inc, and Cigna Corp higher as well. Trump last week signed an executive order to weaken predecessor Barack Obama's signature healthcare law, known as Obamacare. He said he would create new health insurance products and cut off about $7 billion in subsidies paid to health insurance companies for low-income patients. After largely pulling out of individual insurance exchanges this year, UnitedHealth's new Chief Executive Officer Dave Wichmann said the company only had about 30,000 customers receiving subsidies in four states and that any impact would be "extremely small." Wichmann said the company would work with the administration on the new products it had outlined. "We have a great deal of experience in the areas covered in the first order -- short-term policies, association plans and expanded use of HRAs," he said on a conference call, referring to taxfree employer-funded health reimbursement accounts. Besides the boost to growth due to medical costs remaining within a targeted range, the company also expects to increase insurance customers and grow its Optum pharmacy and data businesses. Wichmann said the outlook reflected the reinstatement of Obamacare's 3 percent tax on health insurance, putting the cost at about 75 cents in earnings per share growth. The tax was suspended in 2017 and will be back in effect after Republicans failed to repeal the Affordable Care Act. UnitedHealth said net earnings rose 26.3 percent to $2.49 billion, or $2.51 per share, in the third quarter ended Sept. 30. Excluding items, the company earned $2.66 per share, beating the average analyst estimate of $2.56 per share, according to Thomson I/B/E/S. Leerink analyst Ana Gupte said investors had been concerned that the Wall Street consensus was too high and she was now hopeful that profits could rise even further. "Usually they are a conservative company," Gupte said. The insurer said its withdrawal from individual insurance markets, combined with a health insurance tax deferral, reduced third-quarter revenue by about $1.6 billion and lowered the revenue growth rate by 4 percent. UnitedHealth shares were trading at $202.91, up $9.75, or 5 percent. (Reporting by Caroline Humer in New York and additional reporting by Divya Grover in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel and Susan Thomas) (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.) Cyber security watchdogs and researchers are issuing warnings over risks associated with a widely used system for securing Wi-Fi communications after the discovery of a flaw that could allow hackers to read information thought to be encrypted, or infect websites with malware. In the United States (US), some of the worlds most powerful companies face rising pressure to do more to fight false information and stop foreign infiltration. Government of Tamil Nadu employees received promise to a hike in their salaries last week after the state Cabinet approved the recommendations under the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC). However, the changes to this end will be implemented from October 1, 2017, which would mean losing arrears for 21 months which the state government employees were expecting. While accepting the recommendations by the 7th Pay Commission, the Tamil Nadu Cabinet under Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami did not agree to enact the changes from a retrospective date. The government employees in Tamil Nadu, however, were expecting that the pay panel recommendations will be put into effect from January 1, 2016. The step will deprive the state government employees of arrears for 21 months. Tamil Nadu government employees had been protesting against delay in implementing provisions under the 7th Pay Commission, which ended after the Madras High Court ordered a stay on their agitations. One of their demands included implementing changes under 7th Pay Commission from a retrospective date. Going by the changes that the Cabinet has approved will mean an increase of 20 per cent in the salaries of government employees and teachers . The pay hike will affect around 10 lakh state government employees and pensioners. Meanwhile, Opposition leader in Tamil Nadu and DMK working president MK Stalin had pointed out such anomalies in implementation of 7th Pay Commission recommendations. The state government employees and teachers will not get 21 months' arrears or Rs 21,000 minimum salary as announced by the Centre under the pay panel, he had said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious National Investment and Infrastructure Fund has just got its first foreign investor - Abu Dhabi Investment Authority or ADIA - which will invest USD 1 billion, almost two years after NIIF's creation in 2015. Ministry of Finance on Monday issued a press statement saying that an agreement between India and ADIA Group has been signed to mobilise long term investment into NIIF. "As a part of the agreement, ADIA will become the first institutional investor in NIIF's Master Fund and a shareholder in the National Fund's investment management Company," the press statement said. The NIIF was created in 2015 with a proposed corpus of Rs 40,000 crores. The state's contribution to the Fund shall be 49 per cent of the total commitment at any given point of time. The NIIF has been mandated to solicit equity participation from strategic partners such as overseas investors that could include sovereign/quasi-sovereign/multilateral/bilateral investors. Speaking on ADIA's USD 1 billion investment, Economic Affairs Secretary Shri Subhash Chandra Garg said: "This is a significant milestone in operationalisation of NIIF. This Agreement paves the way for creating significant economic impact through investment in commercially viable infrastructure development projects." Apart from ADIA, several other investors such as Government of UAE, Russia-based RUSNANO, Qatar Investment Authority or QIA, Russian Direct Investment Fund and Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport & Urban Development or JOIN- have signed agreements with the National Fund. In addition, DEA has signed terms for cooperation on the NIIF with the US Treasury and the UK Treasury, the Finance Ministry said. It further said that an India-UK Green Growth Equity Fund has been announced in April 2017. "The fund shall be set up under the fund of funds vertical of NIIF, and shall have anchor commitments of GBP 120 million each from Government of India (through NIIF) and Government of UK," the statement said. Alongwith foreign investors, there are six other domestic institutional investors who will also be joining the government's NIIF Master Fund. These domestic investors are - HDFC Standard Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Asset Management Company Limited, Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited, ICICI Bank Limited, Kotak Mahindra Old Mutual Life Insurance Limited and Axis Bank Limited. The government has set up a Governing Council to act as an advisory council to NIIF. The Council will be headed by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. The Government in order to augment the ease of doing businesses in the country has in recent past undertaken many initiatives which include Startup India, Make in India, Digital India and Skill India. Of all the initiatives, Start-up India is much talked about. Launched on 16 January, 2016, the scheme looks to empower the start-ups. The term 'Start-up' has been defined by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) and recently the definition has been amended considering the long gestation period for the Start-ups. In simple words, Start-Up means an entity, incorporated or registered in India any time but not prior to seven years from the launch of the scheme except in Biotechnology Startups where an entity formed prior to ten years is also considered as start up having the annual turnover not exceeding Rs 25 crore in any preceding financial year, and working towards innovation, development or improvement of products or processes or services, or if it is a scalable business model with a high potential of employment generation or wealth creation. There are some qualifications also before an entity will qualify as start-up including but not limited to that such an entity is not formed by splitting up, or reconstruction, of a business already in existence. Further, the taxation benefits are also available to start-ups after they have obtained certification from the Inter-Ministerial Board, setup for such purpose. The concept of 'Start up' was till 13 June 2017 not officially recognized under Companies Act, 2013 though any company which qualifies with criteria defined by DIPP was considered as start-up. However, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs through an amendment included officially the concept of start-up under the Companies Act, 2013. Now, under the Act, a start-up company means to be a private company incorporated under the Act and recognised as a start-up in accordance with the notification issued by the DIPP. Recently, the Act has been amended to align its provisions in line with Start-up India. These amendments include a simplified integrated process for incorporation of a company. To give effect to the same, e-forms INC-32 (commonly known as SPICe), INC-33 (e-Memorandum of Association) and INC-34 (e-Articles of Association) were brought into picture. Now all the entities, with number of promoters up to seven, are mandatorily required to get its incorporation by filing e-form SPICe. Generally, a person who wishes to be appointed as Director in any Company has to acquire his Director Identification Number (DIN) at first instance however, now after the amendment the facility of obtaining a DIN by such persons who are to be the first Directors of the Company (with promoters up to 7) is included in the Incorporation Form itself. Similarly, in the Incorporation Form, one can apply for name. Further, at the time of submission of the Incorporation Form with Ministry of Corporate Affairs, an automated pre-filled Form 49A and 49B pertaining to Permanent Account Number (PAN) Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) of the proposed company respectively is generated. Prior to this amendment in the Act and Rules, a newly incorporated company had to file separate applications with the Income tax Department for obtaining the PAN and TAN. The Amendment has also reduced the compliance obligations of start-ups. A private company which is a start-up, is now not required to include a cash flow statement during the course of preparation/presentation of its 'financial statements' which otherwise under Section 2(40) of the Act is the mandatory part of 'financial statements'. Similarly, the exemption earlier available to a One-Person company and small company that a company secretary or a director can sign the annual return is also now available to start-up companies. A start-up entity is further allowed to raise deposits from members (shareholders), with exemption from procedural compliance for five years otherwise mandatorily required under the Act. Similarly, it is the obligation under the Act for the board of directors of the company to meet at least once in 120 days -- approximately four board meetings in a year. However, for start-ups convening at least one meeting of the board of directors in each half of a calendar year with the gap between the two meeting of not less than Ninety (90) days is sufficient to meet the requirement of Section 173 (5) of the Act. The exemptions given under the recent amendment will no doubt give a relief to young entrepreneurs to work in a relaxing environment as for them otherwise even a small non compliance of the Act can lead to big penalties and punishment in future. (The author Founding Partner of law firm Singh & Associates) IndiGo sought the ministry of civil aviation's intervention in the issue of Delhi airport operator DIAL asking the low-cost carrier to shift one-third of its operations from terminal 1 to terminal 2, calling the directive "arbitrary, illegal and mala fide". In a letter written to the ministry as well as the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), IndiGo has also demanded that DIAL "reconsider and withdraw" its order asking the airlines to shift some of their flights to terminal 2 (T2). The ministry had written to the airlines in June, asking them to arrive at an amicable solution over relocating of flights, failing which it said that the airport operator was authorised to take a decision which would be "binding" on them. The letter from IndiGo follows the order from DIAL asking GoAir, IndiGo and SpiceJet to shift one-third of their operations. GoAir, however, recently announced that it was moving its entire operations to the new terminal. "The unilateral decision by DIAL to allow one airline (GoAir) to shift its entire operations from terminal 1 to terminal 2, while at the same time directing two other airlines (SpiceJet and IndiGo) to relocate in part...is arbitrary, illegal and mala fide," wrote IndiGo President and Whole Time Director, Aditya Ghosh, in the letter addressed to Civil Aviation Secretary R N Choubey and DIAL CEO I Prabhakara Rao. He said that the move results in "hostile discrimination" and causes "prejudice" and inconvenience to passengers travelling from certain airlines. When the DIAL started discussions with airlines on shifting of flights from terminal 1 (T1) to T2 in January this year, it had put forth three options -- shift one airline, relocate some flights of all three airlines, reduce flights in peak hours by 20 per cent for all three airlines at T1 and shift them to non-peak hours in T2. IndiGo also argues in its letter that since GoAir has agreed to move entirely to the new terminal, the first option offered by DIAL has been satisfied and IndiGo and SpiceJet should not be asked to shift some of their flights. "In these circumstances, there was no occasion for DIAL to assume authority and to exercise discretion in order to arbitrarily impose its option 2 of split operations on the remaining two airlines, i.e. SpiceJet and IndiGo," the letter says. Ghosh says in the letter that IndiGo was willing to shift completely to T2 if DIAL could provide additional bussing gates and adequate night parking bays but the airport operator said these were not "feasible". IndiGo, in the letter, argues that if it shifts some of its flights to T2 it would be operating out of three terminals at Indira Gandhi International Airport, which will put it at a "competitive disadvantage" and "shift the level playing field" as compared to the airlines that have all their flights from a single terminal, i.e terminal 3 (T3). The move, according to IndiGo, will discriminate between passengers and airlines and is therefore "arbitrary and illegal". In the letter, Ghosh writes that relocating flights by October 29 will not be possible for it as it has a large number of advance bookings for the month of October. It has also sought at least 120 days to implement a "mutually acceptable plan" on relocating of flights. IndiGo had last week also written to SpiceJet seeking its support in resolving the stalemate over shifting of flights, asking it to shift fully to T2. It said alternatively, DIAL should look at re-organising operations of all airlines so that each can run complete operations from one terminal. IndiGo operates 306 flights daily and serves 40,059 passengers to and from Delhi. According to estimates, SpiceJet operates 90 flights and caters to 17,000 passengers daily from Delhi. GoAir has 67 flights approximately and handles 12,060 travellers per day in and out of Delhi. The recent crackdown on betting rackets and makeshift casinos in Delhi-NCR has driven the city's gambling business to take the virtual route. The operators are increasingly using digital platforms and online apps, hosted outside the country, to hold chancegame events amid a closed, members-only community. The weeks ahead of Diwali are considered the peak season for gambling when playing cards or other luck games is considered auspicious by many, swelling the number of players manifold. Operators create exclusive clubs online where clients can place their bets in real time and the money is collected offline the following day. "We have inputs about gambling agents who are sharing links with businessmen of Delhi-NCR to play card games online and huge money is being traded each night," a senior Delhi Police official told Mail Today. "Earlier, they used to rent a farmhouse or bungalow for organising poker, card-based games, and roulette around the festival of Diwali but now these agents are using digital covers for their operations." The official admitted that it is difficult to crack down on online players as most of the websites are hosted abroad. "There are several roadblocks, which includes getting a log from the said app or site operator. Simultaneous raids at individual houses and gathering technical evidence are other impediments," the police officer said. Experts said apps like PPpoker gives an option of hosting the card game where local players can be invited through their social media page. There are other websites likes 888casino, Williams Hill and 1xbet that offer popular live casino games. These sites have gained heavy tractions lately, they point out. Confirming the spike, UP Police Special Task Force (STF) additional superintendent Triveni Singh said, "Playing chance-based games, including card and number games on the online platform, is increasing as general perception is that it is legit. It is not. We have received specific inputs and based on that we are tracking traffic going to popular gambling and betting sites. We have solid leads of some of the major operators." Explaining the modus operandi, one of the legal casino operators from Goa told MAILTODAY that agents create their own playing arena on global sites. "Gambling agents have a closed group of players and no outsider is invited. Only people with references can place the stakes. The confirmation about the invite comes at the eleventh hour and the link to the gaming arena is shared through WhatsApp or other such messaging apps," the operator explained. "Players use an allotted nickname and there is no transaction of real money. Only points and credit score codes are provided. After the end of each game, the credit score is noted and the next day an agent goes and collect the money from the players," the operator said. Police officials estimate that each year during Diwali, over Rs 1,000 crore are pumped in "illegal gambling" in the national Capital. As these games involve cash, it attracts a lot of unaccounted money. But experts say these figures are just a tip of the iceberg as underground gambling is multi-billion industry in those Indian states where betting is illegal. Gambling is prohibited in a 'common gaming house' when there is an element of commercial motive for the organisers. However, gambling in a private enclosure where there is no invitation to members of the public and no element of 'profit or gain', is not illegal. While popularity of digital gambling is rising, experts say the traditional ways remain popular as ever. "I don't see traditional ways of betting going down. Players still like to sit across the table with real players, read their expression and place their bets with adrenalin rush," said Jay Sayta, a researcher in gambling laws and founder of GLaws.in, a gaming laws web portal. "But yes, a large number of people have also moved online. With dedicated forums to host gambling games to live casinos, Indians are playing it all." Jay said it is tough for law enforcement agencies to keep a check on offline and online gambling. "Gambling is a bailable offence and hence not a deterrence. Laws related to gambling are quite old and do not cover the online part of it. While IT laws can be applied on gamble offenders, it is still tough for cops to catch the online operator, agents or players," said Sayta. Recently, cops arrested a suspended Gurugram Police head constable for allegedly running an illegal casino in the upscale South City-I colony. Cops also arrested 41 people, including city businessmen and four women. Meanwhile, All India Gaming Federation has demanded making skillbased games legal. "The casino business has huge potential as it can generate revenue for the state. Black money is involved in it as it is not legal. As soon as a state decides to legalise and regulate it, many corporates will come forward to operate it professionally," said Roland Landers, CEO AIG. "Every Meal An Adventure!" ~ Food & Travel in Asia Philemon Yang Archives "If there is anything to go by, the CPDM oligarchy or cabal in Yaounde has kicked the wrong leg this time around. The very first idea of sending people to these counties maybe a good thing but those who have been chosen to carry the water buckets to the people are not those who will deliver fire from the ground." TRAITORS NOT ELITES, MAKE NEW CHOICES FAST Without getting to define or school you people about who is an elite or the meaning of the term, permit me start this point of correction with a negative tone. I vehemently refused to abide by the idea that Anglophone Cameroonians really still have elites. If at all they exist, then they do not fall in the group of people I have seen their names with presidential signatures sent to cajole the Anglophone population. This piece is to draw the conscience of those who were handpicked without any measure or yardstick of measurement to go and play pipers tone to the people and to some of us who taught we had elites. If there is anything to go by, the CPDM oligarchy or cabal in Yaounde has kicked the wrong leg this time around. The very first idea of sending people to these counties maybe a good thing but those who have been chosen to carry the water buckets to the people are not those who will deliver fire from the ground. Yaounde should know by now that the music is no more the asimba that they used to play from up there that even my late grandmother will dance in the village without even understanding the message that lies within the lyrics. Things have changed and they too should learn to move with time. Any true leader should understand as of now that, time has not only empowered those they once taught were followers of the river to become swimmers ready to swim against the current. We want to sing our own Asiko or our Bottle dance and enjoy the lyrics as a free people. Has the Beti let regime started to address the root causes of the problem as was prescribed by the UN? If so then they are sending the wrong doctors to handle the patients. The patients you have today are not the same that were fooled and given a different drug by the Munas and Fonchas of the sixties. This is 2017, and the grandkids of those patients have come of age with many understanding that for any effective treatment to take place, real medications must be prescribed for every particular disease that is diagnosed. I will not like to delve into the list of those you have chosen to go and discuss with the people. However, I will not also turn a blind eye on the fact that those you have chosen fall amongst the prodigal sons and daughters that are still not wanted or desired by the parents. These are people who stood up boldly and claimed that there was no problem. Some simply went quiet while their people were murdered in cold blood, abducted, maimed, raped, shot at, tear gassed, beaten like snakes, called rats and dogs. How do you go and start solving a problem that you had earlier on refused its existence? Was they a need to take the stage for the wrong reason while you silently acknowledge in your hearts that there is a problem? Is it or was it so difficult for these so-called elites running to sing to the people now to see that the problem was so visible that even kids are singing it on the streets today, ready to sacrifice even what they do not have to make the world know that the people are in dying need of air? What has Yaounde given to you people to become so stone hearted to the point where your voices cannot be heard at a time when the people wanted to hear it most? How do you fool us now that you love us when we could not hear your words at the needed moment? You have just showed to us that you are ready to pick the booty after the fight. You are coming now so that your grand master will reward you for appeasing the people. After all, the sons and daughters of the poor have fought and died and it is time for the rich elites to come and reap. Permit me say you will not reap this time around. You shall return to Yaounde with your tails under your legs like ngong dogs in the rainy season just as those who were sent to Canada, Belgium, Britain and South Afrca. In addition, those who chose the people and delegated them, your ngambe has failed, as you could not distinguish between power and honor. Those you have chosen have power, but they lack honor. Power falls within the archaic Machiavelli preaching of absolutism while honor is a modern political concept that goes with power. Modern political theorists advise that leaders should possess both or at best have honor than power. Yaounde has constructed these guys to think that once they have power, honor will flow from above to the people. Far from that, they lack honor and are bare as the word bare itself. They take themselves nearer to the god of Etoudi and today think that because they are ok, everyone should join them clap to their demi god. The people of SC will not come this far only to be sent old members of a gang to come and try to convince them. Cant you learn from a short history? You think the memories of the dead have been wiped away? What the mixed patrol that was sent abroad faced is the same thing that you will face. You failed with the diaspora and think you will succeed with the people at home? No way. Garri don pass water. If truly this government wants the people to listen to them, then they know what to do. Call the real leaders of the Anglophone community, both home and abroad and listen to them. If you feel ashamed to do that, then hire neutral bodies specialized in conflict management and top negotiations to do the job for you. What is wrong in the president to take a tour of the nation and listen to the people? Will that reduce any presidential powers that he has? If he is too big to do that, then he should quickly reshuffle the gang of elites around him and bring in a new breed because these ones are only fooling him that they have power and honor meanwhile they lack both. Delay is dangerous as people get more radicalized as the days go by. The idea of a new nation has been implanted in the DNA of every child in this land. The new anthem is sung in every village, city, county, homes, pre-school kids now love to sing the Land of Glory than the O Cameroun. The Blue and White colors are more honored than the Green Red Yellow. Corpses are buried with typical nationalist style than ever before. People, both old and young now have faith in the new nation with the idea in them that no matter how the night maybe, the sun will rise one day. This is to remind you that bullet and force can never, had never and will never kill an idea. You can intimidate the people now by beatings, killing, maiming, raping and destroying satellite dishes in the entire land, but words of mouths are faster than you had ever imagined. Besides, for how long will you maintain a standing army in one part of the country? Ask yourself which one is cheaper, maintaining a standing army or calling for true and sincere dialogue to end the impasse in a peaceful way? Let me remind you that no army will ever win a war against a peaceful people. You may kill the flesh but the idea in the souls will remain even if buried. Sincerely speaking, I will prefer a delegation headed by an outspoken and honest francophone elite who during the time of our cries heard us and gave in his/her voice to the struggle. I will even prefer to welcome someone like Aboyem Achoyi, Professor Maurice Nkamto, Maitre Momo, Maitre Alice Nkom etc, than to receive an Atanga Nji Paul, an Ekema Patrick or those found on that list as elites. Achiri Atanga PhD Fellow | BY Ricki Green | CB Exclusive: In response to the recent Weinstein scandal, freelance directors assistant Dani Pearce (left) shares her views on issues of harassment within the industry. The Weinstein scandal. It would be strange not to acknowledge my personal proximity to this global headline. Im a freelance directors assistant in the commercial film industry and am now moving into full time directing. Thus, I have spent my whole career almost exclusively under the management of men in this industry. I have been trying to wrap my head around the Weinstein events since the network of silence has begun to unravel. Simply I cant stop thinking about it. It has been a reflective time in which Ive thought extensively about countless conversations, interactions and experiences that have comprised my four years in this space. It is sad to acknowledge that I relate to these women wholeheartedly. Just as I was beginning to enter the freelance world I was working with a male director who asked me about my experience as a woman and further, an aspiring female director. Its a rare and refreshing gift for a male director to openly acknowledge that my experience is not the same as theirs. On face value the conversation felt genuine and it felt kind. What I thought was an attempt to empathize, ended up being a master class on the deeply rooted gender issues within this industry. We spoke on for a few moments film this, production that until he asked me a question. Why do you think you havent had a really bad experience yet? I thought about it for a moment. What does he mean? A really bad experience? I must have looked at him with bewilderment. It took a moment for me to process what had just been asked of me. I felt naive in my lack of immediate response. I was muted by the latent assumptions that were just made. Sometimes the existence of a question is critically more important than the question itself. The fact that this director felt it was ok to ask me why I havent been bullied, belittled or preyed upon in my work place felt strange. The assumption in this accidentally loaded question was that it was bizarre that I hadnt been preyed upon and further that it will happen eventually. This simple question over a coffee became a harrowing reality check. Why are men unconsciously placing the ownership of harassment or assault on the victim in question? Why are women those responsible and accountable for the actions of the men in power around them? And why is this man (who to my knowledge is not a predator) comfortable asking me why I havent been viewed through a sexual lens in my work place? How has the industry been mangled into such a form that a director can casually and conversationally inquire as to why I havent been targeted sexually by men in power? All of this flooding my mind as this director chatted on. We talk further. A bombshell. Oh Dani the reason no one would make a pass of you is because youre a ball buster. Youd call them out on it. I couldnt believe what I was hearing. The tone wasnt even derogatory it was verging on complimentary. A male director had just openly told me that the reason I havent had a bad experience is because people perceive me to be a woman who would say something about it as though my outspoken nature had granted me some kind of rape culture hall pass. But little did this director know that in my reflection I actually have had men in power in my work place make me feel uncomfortable on countless occasions. I once worked for an executive producer who made me so afraid of being alone with him that the production assistant and I used to plan our schedules based around neither of us ever being alone with him. And in the prior context of this conversation with this director who had just asked me about my experience as a woman, I could say nothing. This director had already made it clear to me that being preyed upon would have been through my own fruition; like I was somehow in control of that experience. With that on the table, how could I possibly, openly acknowledge the wholly inappropriate ways that men in the work place have made me feel in the past? How do you openly discuss the issues you combat when the person you are talking to has already painted you as the perpetrator? My idea of a solution at the time was to speak to the producer a woman. I thought my safe house was going to be within another woman who understood my experience. Upon telling a producer in this case, the second in charge of this production company about the scheduling system that the P.A and I had to avoid solo evenings with the executive producer she told me that that sounded like a smart system. She further told me if you see the train coming you should get off the tracks. Yes a female producer had just used an analogy that suggested women in the work place should get out of the way of predators if they know they are predators. I was floored by another nod to abuse of power that in no way blamed the abuser, but again blamed the victim. The advice was painful to watch her give. I can only assume this was her hardened response to years of these experiences. Evolution shows that we adapt to survive it is no different for women in the film industry. Other women have alerted me as to the men who are suspect and their backgrounds of sexual harassment. However, Chinese whispers within the sisterhood does not stop a man from sexually assaulting someone it merely better equips us to prepare for when it happens to us. Why are we preparing to accept something that is universally demoralizing and plainly illegal? Because we have been told that it is the only way to survive in this industry that those at the top are men anyways, so speaking out is worth nothing. Thus, we perpetuate the narrative that silence is valuable and self assign the responsibility to get off the tracks. I dont believe that anyone becomes a filmmaker because its an easy livelihood this industry is competitive and complex. Most filmmakers men and women alike become filmmakers because it is their undeniable passion. This means that when you consider speaking out you are not only risking losing something that pays your rent you are also risking losing something that is your dream. If youve ever worked within or in proximity to a creative industry you will know that being a creative is generally not a choice. It lives within you, and it drives you entirely. Why do you have to consider giving up something youve worked your entire life to achieve because someone cornered you at an agency Christmas party? How do you self negotiate giving up that dream because someone put a hand on your inner-thigh in a preproduction meeting? It would be irresponsible not to acknowledge my current position. I am at a point in my career where I can and do deny work based on the ethics of those in power many women cannot. Further, I am white and middle class which affords me even more capability to speak up. I cannot even begin to image how a true experience of intersectionality would make writing even this piece that much harder. This issue is endemic of the film industry and advertising and I cannot speak on behalf of every woman but I can speak on behalf of myself; a woman who has chosen to pursue a traditionally male role in a traditionally male space. Those in power need to be more conscious of the way our predisposed approach to these issues ultimately vilifies victims and perpetuates cones of silences. If a director can openly suggest that the reason I havent been targeted (to his knowledge) is due to the unashamed use of my own voice then that is confirmation enough that womens voices are somewhat feared. That is what is going to change this industry. All social change begins with conversation silence is a vote for sexual harassment to continue being normalized. I know how multifaceted the decision to speak up is its a total beast. There is so much on the line, but if our voices speak in unison at just the right time in history after a global event like the Weinstein scandal then it will be worth so much more. You are personally responsible for being more ethical than the society you grew up in. And thus, I am personally responsible for writing this piece. | BY Ricki Green | Melbourne-based tech company FGMNT has launched a unique web tool for advertising agencies that streamlines the way they pitch, present and visualise ad campaigns. FGMNT is a sister company to award-winning production company AIRBAG, and has already established itself as a leader in AR and VR, working with companies such as BMW / Imagination, Dulux, Sensis, ME Bank and Moose Toys. FGMNT is now taking its pedigree in advertising to create useful and powerful tools which help the industry streamline processes through new technologies. The product is called Situ www.situ360.com and it gives agencies around the world the power to pre-vis creative in full 360 video, directly in the web browser. Its extremely powerful, but also simple to operate even for the most low-tech user. Says Nick Wright, CEO and co-founder, FGMNT: Having been in advertising for 12 years, we know the pain of trying to sell creative to clients completely out of context of the environment it will be consumed in. Even for the most visually minded, its not easy to imagine. Situ removes any ambiguity and puts the power of fully informed decision making into the hands of the agency and client alike. As well as the ability to create projects and instantly share them with clients around the world, Situ boasts an impressive library of pre shot and pre tagged 360 videos of advertising spaces both indoor and outdoor. The library currently hosts locations from around Melbourne and Sydney, plus sites from New York, Paris, London and Cannes to test creative on. While creating a tool that is specifically suited to the needs of an agency, the Situ team worked closely with Publicis Melbourne, consulting on user needs and testing with clients to establish what is most valuable to the industry. Says Georgina Pownall, general manager, Publicis Melbourne: Situ has shown us, well before we get to client presentation time, which creative we want to hero and hone, and its super easy its a desktop tool we use internally. The Publicis Melbourne team were invaluable during the development process, and the partnership has ensured the tools are focused on what a creative agency truly needs. The tools real value comes from its innate ability to bring the client and agency closer in their understanding of a campaigns needs, and to speed up the approval process. Situ also helps drive the creation of more effective messaging, leading to happier clients and therefore better client retention. Says Michael Slonim, managing director, VICE Australia & New Zealand: A clients imagination can sometimes be an elusive thing to capture. With Situ, we can hardwire straight into their brains, vividly showcasing our creative ideas to them. This can only mean more YESs, more quickly. | BY Ricki Green | Building on strong recent agency growth, Ogilvy Brisbane has announced two new senior hires, significantly bolstering its creative team. Andy Geppert joins as head of art and Richard Taylor as creative director. Geppert (centre) and Taylor (left) commence their new roles effective immediately, working across a number of the agencys key accounts, including Neds, University of Queensland and Queensland Government. They will guide an already strong creative team, working alongside the agencys senior leadership team comprising ECD Phil Nobay (above right), managing director Ben Lightfoot and strategy director Ewen Pettit. Nobay described the appointments of Geppert and Taylor as a huge win for the agency and its clients. Says Nobay: Weve invested heavily in smart young minds that keep us ahead of emerging trends and technologies. Now Andy and Rich will play a vital role in ensuring this diverse, integrated team puts craft and innovation at the centre of everything. Having previously held the roles of founding partner at Cummins, ECD at McCann, senior art director at Publicis and head of art at Clemenger Brisbane, Geppert brings a wealth of experience to Ogilvy Brisbane, having worked with heavyweight clients such as RACQ, Tourism Queensland, BUPA, Sanofi, Virgin, Air Asia, Bank of Queensland and Weis Ice Cream. | BY Ricki Green | The Global Awards has announced the 2017 finalists. Australia has scored 20 finalists with Ogilvy CommonHealth leading with six finalists. McCann Health has scored four finalists whilst greyhealth group / Sudler Sydney, Orchard, Saatchi & Saatchi Wellness, Showpony Advertising and Ward 6 has scored two finalists each. For the past 23 years, the international Global Awards has honored the Worlds Best Healthcare & Wellness Advertising and has served as a touchstone for celebrating creative achievement in healthcare and wellness communications beyond the barriers of language and culture. The Global Awards Grand Jury shortlisted 154 entries this year submitted from 22 countries worldwide. Entries achieving shortlist status will be judged by the 2017 Pharma (Rx) and Health & Wellness executive juries in a live session in New York City to determine trophy winners. The 2017 award-winning entries will be announced at the Global Awards ceremonies on November 16th in New York City and Sydney, Australia. This years finalists employed a wide variety of tactics to engage and educate consumers including ambient advertising, humor, social media, event marketing, experiential engagement, and technology. Entries utilizing ambient advertising achieved Finalist status. The Classic Partnership Advertisings (UAE) Footnote for The Breast for Medcare Women & Children Hospital wanted to raise awareness on the importance of health check, especially amongst local and Arab women. The campaign tackled the issue of taboo: while some health conditions may be taboo to talk about, there shouldnt be any taboo for checking. Pebbles were placed in the shoes of women who went to mosques or prayer halls, and when they returned and put on their shoes, the lumps message urged women to respond by calling Medcares Toll-Free number to schedule their free-of-cost consultation. Additional uses of ambient advertising include: FCB Health USA Gay Blood Dumpster for Gay Mens Health Crisis (GMHC) the agency constructed a large art installation in Chelsea for PRIDE, New York that featured two dumpsters packed with Gay Blood to signify how discrimination dehumanizes a community while simultaneously wasting 617,000 pints of potential donor blood every year! The Bloc USA Hearing Voices of Support Interactive Art Installation for Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America, created an immersive interactive art installation for Schizophrenia Awareness Week that featured sensor plates throughout the gallery activating light beams and triggering sound and a video projection of a person speaking, reminiscent of auditory hallucinations but with a twistthe voices were positive. Gallery visitors heard positive stories told by affected people talking about what helps them. People surveyed who experienced the event showed a shift in perception and increased empathy, with more than 80% wanting to do more to help people affected by a schizophrenia-related illness. Humor drove multiple entries to the trophy round: McCann Health Australia Poo Romance for client Metamucil utilized an ironic love story between a giant walking brand icon a Metamucil jar, and a walking poo to engage pharmacists and consumers. The creative brought to life health messages and raised talkability about a sensitive subject. Ogilvy CommonHealth Australia The Stool Expert for client Coloxyl tackled the embarrassment of constipation by introducing Stefan, a stool expert who captures that elusive spot between humor and respect, educating the consumer on the using correct terminology stools without embarrassment and with expertise. Results include 400 earned media placements yielding 350MM+ impressions. Weber Shandwicks The Debate Headache for client Excedrin conducted a social takeover on twitter. During the 2016 US Presidential Election custom head pain relief kits were delivered to top journalists with a tease that a big headache was coming. The morning of the debate, social takeover began on Twitter via a Promoted Trend with the message: The possibility of a #DebateHeadache is high, Be prepared with Excedrin. Within hours of the first tweet, media coverage appeared in consumer/lifestyle, business and marketing publications, national/local broadcastresults include 400 earned media placements yielding 350MM+ impressions, 180,000+ engagements across social platforms and more. The United States took the lead in this years Global Awards competition with 78 entries achieving finalist status. Australia saw 20 entries moving on to the trophy round, followed by the United Kingdom with 19. India moved forward with 7 entries and German agencies saw 6 entries advance. Japan advanced with 5, the United Arab Emirates and China each saw 4 entries move forward. Hong Kong, New Zealand, and Italy each saw 2 entries advance and Brazil, France, Jordan, Spain, and Sri Lanka moved forward with a single-entry. The Global Awards Grand Jury, evaluated entries to determine the 2017 finalists. International Grand Jury live judging sessions were hosted by the following agencies: Insight Australia, Loooped London, and TBWA\WorldHealth Chicago. The executive jury, headed by Global Awards co-chairpersons Robin Shapiro (Pharma Rx Jury Chairman), global president, North America of TBWA\WorldHealth and Elizabeth Elfenbein (Health & Wellness jury chairman), partner/chief creative officer, of The Bloc USA, will meet in New York City to determine the 2017 Global Award winners. To view the 2017 Global Awards finalists please click here. The Global Awards will celebrate the 2017 award-winners with celebrations in Sydney, Australia at The Rawson hosted by Bravo!/Global Awards and in New York at The New York Academy of Sciences. All winners and attendees are invited to jet to the show of their choice on Thursday, November 16, 2017. For Sydney ceremony details click here, and for New York ceremony details click here. Tickets for the award ceremony will be available for purchase this week. | BY Ricki Green | Sour Patch Kids Australia has teamed up with Online Circle Digital and Carat and is set to dominate Halloween this year with its launch of the national Sour Patch Kids Halloween campaign. Entitled Sour. Sweet. Win., the campaign brings the brands sour then sweet philosophy to life. With 25 per cent of Australians now celebrating Halloween, Sour Patch Kids is leveraging the brands playful attributes and Online Circle Digitals 3D CGI capabilities to own the occasion and make it the confectionary brand of choice. The fully integrated campaign merges digital media channels with a retail approach to engage audiences. At its heart, the campaign boasts an interactive consumer competition website promising a dream $10k trip for two to New York. To enter, users must upload a photo, decide whether they are sweet or sour through a custom-made Sour Patch Kids frame and enter their details. The competition is supported by digital advertising. Sour Patch Kids and Online Circle Digital are further capitalising on the popularity of the annual spook-fest by driving awareness through locally-produced 3D CGI YouTube Pre-Rolls in which the iconic Kids are brought to life. This activity is complemented by Facebook and Instagram advertising, an Snapchat filter as well as retail activity that engages and influences shoppers who are thinking of buying treats for Halloween. To drive product visibility, the campaign is fronted by a strong in-store presence and supported by Halloween-themed point of sale. The Sour. Sweet. Win. creative and 3D CGI was all designed and produced by Online Circle Digitals growing in-house creative services team. Says Lucio Ribeiro, MD of Online Circle Digital: Sour Patch Kids is such a great brand to work with. They make bold choices and enabled us to think outside the box to give them a campaign that captures the fun of Halloween and really makes an impact during the most competitive time of year for confectionary companies. | BY Ricki Green | The University of Melbourne has launched an integrated brand campaign via McCann Melbourne, showcasing its distinctive curriculum, the Melbourne Model. The campaign launches with a brand film, which presents the need for a model of education that equips students with world knowledge rather than just a specialist degree, so that they can adapt and be ready for every possible future. Press, social content and out of home executions will target business leaders to position graduates of the University as talent that is prepared for every future of their business. The campaign aims to drives employers to a website where they are encouraged to meet Melbourne Talent and find graduates for hire via a LinkedIn powered search tool. Says Siobhan Forbes, executive director of marketing, University of Melbourne: The campaign illustrates how Melbourne Model graduates are well placed to help workplaces globally navigate an uncertain future. As part of this campaign, were also looking forward to sharing the experience and perspectives of Melbourne alumni who are leading their industries in preparing for the future. Says Anita Deutsch-Burley, managing director at McCann Melbourne: Every University concentrates on getting students in. Our strategy was to prove that we could get them out. Theres no stronger recruitment tool for a University than proving you can get your students the best jobs in the country. The campaign is a follow up to the Universitys highly successful Made Possible By Melbourne campaign which picked up a series of awards including Cannes Lions and at D&AD. Creative: McCann Melbourne Creative Team: Charles Baylis, Joseph Sibley, Matt Lawson, Corey Thorn Senior Designer: Dave Budd Managing Director: Adrian Mills Group Account Director: Charlie McDevitt Account Director: Emma Van Den Berg Account Manager: Meg Andrews Account Executive: Leighton Howindt Head of Strategy and Media: David Phillips Strategic Planner: Chamari Kariyakaranage Senior Producer: Anne Comber Content Producer: Melina Flood Digital Director: Tony Prysten Digital Producer: Josh Ide Digital Designer: Guilherme Pocai De Almeida Social Director: Chris Baker Media Director: Jane Walshe Digital Media Account Director Shahram Ghaffurian Studio Manager: Daniel Hickey Retouching: Ross Goddard Finished Artist: Belinda Cuddon Production Company Onesal Director: Nahuel Salcedoa Monday, October 16, 2017 at 8:23PM Photos by Emily Chung Huawei launched its Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro flagship smartphones in Munich, Germany today. Huawei, which recently overtook Apple as the world's second largest smartphone maker, unveiled HUAWEI Mate 10 Series, which will open the door to new AI mobile applications. The HUAWEI Mate 10, HUAWEI Mate 10 Pro, and PORSCHE DESIGN HUAWEI Mate 10 showcase breakthrough AI devices that combine innovative hardware, the Kirin 970 chipset and EMUI 8.0. The HUAWEI Mate 10 Series feature high performance and long-lasting battery life, while integrating New Leica Dual Camera technology. Huawei seems to have hit all the high notes. Not only have they developed their own processor and AI focused blueprint, they have partnered with premium brands like Leica and Porsche Design to bring reputable solutions and design to their stable of flagship handsets. As we enter the age of intelligence, AI is no longer a virtual concept but something that intertwines with our daily life. AI can enhance user experience, provide valuable services and improve product performance, said Richard Yu, CEO, HUAWEI Consumer Business Group. The HUAWEI Mate 10 Series introduces the first mobile AI-specific Neural Network Processing Unit, launching a new era of intelligent smartphones. The HUAWEI Mate 10 and HUAWEI Mate 10 Pro are the first devices powered by the new Kirin 970 processor and deliver AI enhancements for a faster, more customized mobile experience. The Kirin 970 is built using an advanced TSMC 10nm semiconductor manufacturing process, and features an octa-core ARM Cortex CPU, a first-to-market Mali-G72 12-core GPU and the first NPU designed specifically for a mobile device. The Kirin 970 also has a new dual ISP for AI-powered intelligent photography. By combining individual and collective intelligence for on-device AI, the new HUAWEI Mate Series delivers real-time responses to users, including AI-powered Real-Time Scene and Object Recognition and an AI Accelerated Translator. Kirin 970 is an open, mobile AI computing platform for third parties to create new and imaginative AI applications and which extends HUAWEIs processing capabilities to the entire value chain. HUAWEI has again partnered with Leica to co-engineer the dual-lens camera for the HUAWEI Mate 10 and HUAWEI Mate 10 Pro. They combine 12-megapixel RGB + 20-megapixel monochrome sensors, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), dual lenses with a large aperture of f/1.6, AI-powered Bokeh Effect and AI-powered Digital Zoom. New AI-powered Real-Time Scene and Object Recognition, which automatically chooses camera settings based on the object and scene, supports an advanced AI-powered Digital Zoom function with AI Motion Detection for clearer and sharper pictures. The new HUAWEI Mate 10 will be available starting in late October in more than 15 countries and regions including Spain, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Singapore and Australia. The HUAWEI Mate 10 Pro will be available beginning in mid-November in more than two dozen countries, including Germany, France, Italy, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. The PORSCHE DESIGN HUAWEI Mate 10 will also be available starting in mid-November. Device Memory Europe Price Availability HUAWEI Mate 10 64GB + 4GB 699 Late October 2017 HUAWEI Mate 10 Pro 128GB + 6GB 799 Mid-November 2017 PORSCHE DESIGN HUAWEI Mate 10 256GB + 6GB 1395 Mid-November 2017 For more information, please visit:http://consumer.huawei.com/en/ Monday, October 16, 2017 at 9:46PM Photo by James Bareham / The Verge Renowned American tech journalist Walt Mossberg is bring his many years of experience into one book. Mossberg signed a deal with St. Martins Press to write about the ascent of tech in the past 40 years and what we can expect in the coming decade. Tim Bartlett will serve as his editor and he plans to release the book in the early fall of 2019. Mossberg says his final column with The Verge is not a bad outline for the book. Itll focus on how our important personal tech deviceslike laptops, phones, the iPod, and e-readershas affected the world at every level, in every walk of life, despite these being less than 40 years old. The book will also feature stories from the people behind these products, some will be tales Mossberg hasnt told before. He wont focus on successes but will also look into products that were flops but were considered important for the industry. He also wants to highlight the responsibility the tech companies have now. Mossberg tells The Verge, Ive been preaching privacy, security, and fairness to consumers for a long time. I think you can do that and also say these things are cool and useful. Ms Griffiths-Cook said that she was aware of processes before strip searches are completed that allow a detainee to declare any contraband they may have and to surrender, but that the commission did not have access to data on how many times items were surrendered. Aubergine dishes out a high level of dining without the posturing that often goes hand in hand with the pursuit of excellence. Perhaps it's the ease of the four-course menu. The sleek and moody split-level dining room, or the way sommelier Cyril Thevenet can take you through the extraordinary depths of the wine list without being a bore. While owner-chef Ben Willis' cooking is contemporary, it has the craft and technique of a classic kitchen. "It's because they open an electricity bill up and it's three times what it used to be, so it's a matter of I can't afford to eat well and pay electricity and rent." A consistent increase in the proportion of so-called contingent jobs was recorded in the territory and Western Australia since November 2013, while the lowest proportion was recorded in Tasmania at 22.8 per cent, followed by NSW at 25.6 per cent. 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. A number of carmakers are concerned with President Trumps proposed changes to the North American Free Trade Agreement. One of Trumps NAFTA demands is to increase the minimum percentage of parts that must be made in the U.S., Canada or Mexico to avoid tariffs, from 62.5 per cent to 85 per cent. Speaking to The Detroit News, vice president of federal affairs at the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which represents the likes of VW, BMW, FCA, Ford, GM and more, Jennifer Thomas said the proposal could actually reduce U.S. jobs rather than creating more. This is an onerous proposal that is unprecedented, especially with the domestic content requirement. We strongly believe this is going to have an adverse effect. Its going to lead to a decrease in production, a decline in jobs and an increase in cost to consumers. A lot of companies are going to forgo the NAFTA benefit and just pay the tariff, so youll see a shift in production to other locations, Thomas said. Additionally, there are concerns that Trumps demands could force Canada and Mexico to scrap the agreement, potentially affecting carmakers ability to export. There is growing concern that this is ultimately going to lead to a withdrawal because with the contentious proposal that has been put on the table, its hard to see how the three countries can come to agreement. This would really set us back and hurt our manufacturing base in the U.S. and hurt our ability to export, Thomas added. PHOTO GALLERY There are plenty of choices in the ever-crowded subcompact crossover segment, with one of the latest additions coming from Hyundai and their brand-new Kona. The Korean automaker may be late to the party, but it promises an interesting proposal thats very customizable, has a funky design, and competitive pricing. This all sounds well on paper, describing a vehicle thats aimed towards young buyers, so could Hyundai have a winner in their hands? The first reviews should answer this question briefly, but it appears that they cannot agree on whether its ride and handling are indeed good, or not so satisfactory. Nevertheless, while the dynamic part of the videos has a rather foggy flair, it seems that most agree that its not that as spacious in the rear as some of its rivals, while the boot capacity isnt on the plus side either. It does have some strong points, though, such as being available with all-wheel drive, an infotainment system thats easy to use, supportive front seats, and plenty of equipment on more expensive models. Still, be careful with the options list, because the Kona can get quite expensive, as you may end up paying at least 24,440 ($32,450) for a Premium GT, in the United Kingdom. VIDEOS Following an ugly incident involving the owner of a Lamborghini Aventador SV and a young man in San Francisco, the owner has spoken out about the saga that has spread online like wildfire. Late last week, footage surfaced on social media showing a young man running over a bright red Aventador SV in the heart of San Francisco. The vehicles owner then threw him to the ground. Speaking to Eyes On Fair Oaks, owner Mike Bowen has shared his side of the story as to what happened that day. Bowen says the drama started when the young man kicked the Lamborghini while it was sitting at a red light. Eager to confront the man and assess the damage, Bowen hoped out of the car and was lured away by the offender. The young man then reportedly threw a cup full of beer into the Lamborghini before Bowen started to stand guard beside his prized supercar in an attempt to keep it safe. According to Bowen, this is when the much-shared video started, capturing the young man running over the Lamborghini and eventually being taken to the ground. Bowen says he was interviewed by police after the incident and pressed charges. However, the mans public defender had a judge release him from custody without charge because he had no money or job. The offender hasnt spoken to the media and his motivations for taunting the driver and damaging the car remain unknown. VIDEO Mercedes-Benz will start its prolonged introduction of its EQ brand later this year in Europe. The carmaker first introduced its EQ brand at 2016s Paris Motor Show and the badge will initially hit the streets affixed to the Mercedes-Benz S560e plug-in hybrid, GLC C-Cell fuel-cell and the Project One hypercar. Interestingly, whereas the brands electric and hybrid models will have a badge reading EQ Power, electrified AMG products, like the Project One, have an EQ Power+ badge. Things wont stop there for the new nomenclature, however. The German brand will refer to its electrified models under the Mercedes-EQ name, similar to Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach. As if things werent complicated enough, the name EQ Ready is already in use for a dedicated Mercedes smartphone application. While Mercedes has already affixed the name to some vehicles, a fully-fledged Mercedes-EQ model wont launch until 2019 with a bespoke, all-electric crossover, previously revealed in concept guise. Beyond the new naming scheme, Mercedes product strategy and planning chief, Wilko Andreas Stark, revealed to Car and Driver that all-electric EQ models will adopt a distinctive design language that is very, very clean and without any lines. PHOTO GALLERY A good vacation can leave a traveler feeling care-free, but that sense of freedom can have disastrous consequences as it did for one Russian woman. Natalia Borodina was on vacation in the Dominican Republic and was filmed, half-naked, hanging out the passenger window of a moving Kia Picanto, when her head hit on a street sign and she was killed. The 35-year-old mother from the Chelyabinsk region in western Russia was traveling with one Ivanna Boirachuk, 32, from Ukraine. Boirachuk was arrested by local police on suspicion of driving under the influence, causing Borodinas death. Boirachuk captured the chilling incident on video which was then shared on social media, including on Facebook and Youtube, but before you click on either, be warned that some viewers may find the content disturbing. Borodinas bereaved friends and family reject the premise that she was an irresponsible or immoral person. She helped her poor family with everything, one friend, Elena Korolyova, told the Daily Mail. She was hoping for a better future. And anyone can make a mistake, why should we judge her by just one video? Are we all saints? In addition to her 11-year-old son, Borodina is survived by her sister and 80-year-old mother. The family is reportedly struggling to have Borodinas remains returned to Russia for burial. The transportation alone is estimated to cost some $20,000, in addition to other costs related to the burial. The HFAs benefits from being the first honor of Hollywoods award season, but its questionable how much of an honor it actually is to receive the award. The awards are routinely mocked, even by those receiving them. At last years ceremony, host James Corden joked about the lack of transparency in the selection of winners and how anyone who is well connected can receive the honor, telling the crowd, If you havent won an award tonight and youre here, you should fire your publicist. American audiences wont be able to decide for themselves if Coco is the best animated film of the year for at least another month, but Disneys marketing machine has already started its psychological campaign to convince people that no better animated film was produced this year. With the Disney Company having won the feature animation Oscar for nine out of the last ten years, they clearly understand how to create the perception that its animated films are the finest ones produced every year. The HFAs will be presented at the Beverly Hilton on Sunday, November 5, 2017. The last five HFA awards for animation have been won by Zootopia, Inside Out, How to Train Your Dragon 2, Monsters University, and Rise of the Guardians. Photo: The Canadian Press Arden Dragoni and his family lost everything when Hurricane Maria ravaged across Puerto Rico last month. Only a few walls of their wooden home still stand. Their clothes, furniture, other household goods and their old car are ruined. Dragoni, his wife Sindy, their three children and dog Max are now living at a shelter set up inside a school in this town on Puerto Rico's northern coast. He supported the family doing construction work, but his employer is out of business, leaving him and his family without a source of income. They are among the more than 5,000 people who lost their homes and are now living in temporary shelters across the U.S. territory in areas still mostly without electricity or water three weeks after the storm. The people in the shelters mostly lost their homes to floodwaters, which were particularly bad in communities such as Toa Baja, west of San Juan. Murky water surged through houses and apartments, carrying away appliances and destroying everything inside. At the Ernestina Bracero Perez School in Toa Baja, there are 73 people of all ages sleeping in the classrooms, using rainwater to shower and passing their time in the courtyard. Dragoni's family shares space with another family in one classroom of the school. The couple took their son Ian to the hospital after a blister appeared behind his ear, since contaminated water has been making some people sick, but the doctor diagnosed him with a common rash. Agustina Lugo, an elderly woman in delicate health, is another who took refuge at the school after the Sept. 20 storm flooded her home. She said she hadn't had any contact with relatives until a niece recently located her. School officials say the school cannot reopen until the displaced flood victims are able to leave. Local officials are trying to find a new shelter for them in the town. Photo: The Canadian Press The rich social interaction and highly evolved brains of some whales are linked in a kind of evolutionary feedback loop, a newly published paper suggests. The research, largely done at the University of British Columbia, sheds new light on similarities between whale and human evolution. "Similar pressures and possibilities in the environment can select for a similar outcome," said Kieran Fox, now a postdoctoral student at California's Stanford University and co-author of the new paper in Nature Ecology and Evolution. Fox and his colleagues studied brain sizes and social behaviours of a wide variety of whale species. They found that whales with the most complex forms of social interaction which includes learning from elders, social hierarchies, co-operation and play tend to live in mid-sized groups of between five and 20. In species such as orcas, individuals have extended one-on-one contact required to develop social behaviour. "Orcas are in matrilineal family clans," Fox said. "These groups stay together, very tight-knit, through their whole lives." In addition, Fox found that whales with the largest "social repertoire" also have the largest and most developed brains relative to their bodies. But which came first, the bigger brain or the richer relationships? Fox said his research suggests the two go hand in hand. Learning beneficial new skills or social behaviours eventually requires a larger, more powerful brain. And a species that evolves a more powerful brain is better able to learn or develop relationships. "That's the theory to this extremely powerful driver of brain evolution once it gets going, you get some brain tissue that supports (social skills), then these individuals are going to do really, really well, because social co-operation and learning are very powerful survival strategies." Fox calls the effect a positive feedback loop. Humans are the classic example of how the link between powerful brains and rich, adaptive cultures can create a smashing evolutionary success. Fox said his research shows how the same process may be at work in a completely different environment and species. Whales aren't the only example of this kind of evolutionary strategy. Some primates and elephants also possess it, said Fox. "A very different species in a totally different environment, diverging millions and millions of years ago, can nonetheless be selected for this very similar life strategy." Photo: Twitter A two-story, "Star Wars"-inspired Halloween yard display in Ohio should be enough to make any trick-or-treating Darth Vader proud. Nick Meyer has built a replica four-legged All Terrain Armored Transport, or AT-AT walker, nearly as tall as his Parma home. Meyer tells Cleveland.com he used wood, hard foam and plastic barrels. He says he enjoys the "Star Wars" movies but isn't a fanatic and simply thought the display would be unique. He's not the only Ohioan continuing a habit of massive Halloween yard displays. In Lorain, Ricky Rodriguez and his wife built what looks like a massive digging machine poking up through their driveway, surrounded by rock debris and skeletons. Rodriguez tells The Chronicle-Telegram that it's made of wood and took six weeks to create. Photo: PG RCMP A photo of Mercier distributed by Prince George RCMP in Nov. 2016 A young woman has been sentenced to just under 10 months in prison for her role in a violent, drug-induced crime spree across the Kootenays and South Okanagan late last year. Michelle Britany Mercier, 21, received the sentence Monday in Penticton court for a trio of vehicle thefts in Dec. 2016 that ended with her and an accomplice being gassed out of an Oliver trailer by an RCMP emergency response team. Crown prosecutor Andrew Vandersluys told the courtroom Mercier was spotted stealing merchandise from a Cranbrook Superstore on Dec 13, 2016, with Dillan Cote. At the time, she was out on bail and was barred from having contact with Cote. The pair fled as loss prevention tried to stop them Shortly after 5 a.m. the next morning, a woman in Cranbrook called police to inform them her car was stolen. The woman had picked Mercier and Cote out of the cold, and allowed them to stay at her home. At some point overnight, the pair stole her car, leaving a note saying sorry. A little over one hour after the car was reported stolen, Grand Forks RCMP was dispatched to a crash in Christina Lake, reported by OnStar. The stolen car had hit a ditch and sign, deploying both airbags. A good samaritan that stopped to help at the crash scene offered the pair a ride into Oliver, but when he stopped for gas, Mercier and Cote stole his truck and fled. That truck went off the road down a large embankment on Hwy 3 about three kilometres east of Osoyoos shortly afterwards. A mother and three children aged 6, 9 and 12 that stopped to help at the second crash scene were then carjacked by Mercier and Cote and left on the side of the highway. The mother had called police prior to Cote taking her phone and throwing it in a ditch. The car was later found abandoned at the Oliver hospital. South Okanagan RCMP learned that the fugitives were hiding out on a property in Oliver. There was concern the pair was armed, so an emergency response team was called in. After a 10 hour standoff, police lobbed a tear gas grenade into the building where the two were hiding, arresting them early Dec. 15. The Crown argued for a 217 day sentence. Cote, who had a significant previous criminal record, was sentenced to six years in July. Defence lawyer Mandy Cheema asked the judge to impose a jail-free conditional sentence, stating she had no previous criminal record. She added Mercier has removed Cote from her life and found a new partner, gesturing to 47-year-old man in an olive suit in the gallery. Would you say thats a positive influence? Judge Gregory Koturbash asked Cheema. The defence lawyer suggested the relationship works despite the age difference because he is mature, and without a criminal record. Mercier stood to read from a statement apologizing for her actions, saying she was in a dark place at the time, using cocaine and speed. Koturbash did not bite. There are drug addicts that dont commit crimes at all, he said. There are drug addicts that commit property related offences to fuel their addiction. But when drug addicts start committing acts of violence, it's particularly concerning. The fact that good samaritans were preyed upon and children were present, weighs very heavily on my decision, he said, adding she has created a chilling effect for the victims to act as good samaritans in the future. Koturbash imposed an overall sentence of 300 days, above what the Crown was seeking, in addition to 18 months probation. With credit for time served, she has 234 days left on her sentence. The court also heard that ICBC is pursuing civil action worth $27,000 against her for the three damaged cars. Photo: The Canadian Press Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, left, meets emergency personnel after a wildfire in Pontevedra. Late season wildfires that broke out over the weekend in Portugal have killed at least 35 people, including a one-month-old infant, authorities said Monday, making 2017 by far the deadliest year on record for forest blazes in the country. In neighbouring Spain, wildfires have also killed at least four people and prompted the evacuation of thousands in the northwest region of Galicia, as the remnants of winds from Hurricane Ophelia fanned the flames along Iberia's Atlantic coast. The fires returned to Portugal four months after a summer blaze claimed 64 lives in one night. The year's current total of 99 deaths is far higher than the previous annual record of 25, in 1966. A one-month-old baby was among the dead, the Civil Protection Agency said Monday. The infant's body was found near Tabua, 200 kilometres north of Lisbon. The parent's bodies reportedly were found nearby. Civil Protection Agency spokeswoman Patricia Gaspar said the death toll could rise. "We are still searching burnt areas to see if there are any more victims," Gaspar told The Associated Press. She said 56 people were injured, 16 of them seriously, and nine people were reported missing in the blazes that broke out over the weekend. More than 5,300 firefighters with more than 1,600 vehicles were still battling the fires through dense pine and eucalyptus forests Monday. Emergency services recorded 523 wildfires Sunday, the highest number in a single day this year and the highest on one day in more than a decade. "You don't see that in any other country in the world," said Civil Protection Agency spokeswoman Patricia Gaspar. "We have all our firefighters out there doing everything they can," said Home Affairs Minister Constanca Urbano de Sousa, who is in charge of emergency services and has been the target of criticism for her handling of the tragedy. Spain's prime minister focused on criminal intent, and said authorities were certain the fires were caused by arsonists. "What we are seeing here doesn't happen accidentally. This has been induced," Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said during a visit to a Galician fire department. Photo: Contributed Tolko has donated $7,000 to the Boys and Girls Club. Tolko Industries has donated $7,000 to the Okanagan Boys and Girls Clubs. A cheque was handed over to Diane Entwistle, chief executive officer of the Okanagan Boys and Girls Clubs, in Vernon last month. The clubs have been running programs and services for youth in Vernon, Kelowna and West Kelowna for a number of years. Tolkos donation will help with upgrades to the Vernon facility as well as provide basic supplies and resources needed to support the youth in the local community. Photo: Elliott Row Facebook page Don Robertson will be remembered as an avid community member, amazing father and loving husband, after losing his 18-year battle to cancer over the weekend. After moving to the Okanagan in 1992 with his wife Lori, Robertson opened Elliott Row Mens Wear in West Kelowna. Robertson later moved the shop to Penticton in 1995, where the company has thrived ever since. Robertson was heavily involved with the Penticton Vees and will never be forgotten by anyone who was lucky enough to meet him, according to Ken Huber general manager, Huber Bannister Chevrolet. "I met him in 1995 when he first opened up his business and I got to be a good customer of his," Huber said. "We spent lots of time together having a great time with his family, his wife and his two boys." Four years after moving his store to Penticton, Robertson was diagnosed with GIST (gastrointestinal stromal tumors) cancer. From 1999 to 2014 Robertson spent every second enjoying life with his family, despite undergoing multiple chemotherapy treatments, radiation and 10 surgeries. Doctor's told Robertson in 2014 his medication was no longer working, but his positivity and determination to fight never diminished. In June of 2016 he was told he had only six months to a year left to live, but Robertson still broke all odds by making it through to the summer of 2017 with joy and happiness, according to the Elliott Row Mens Wear Facebook page. "He is just a really positive guy even through his ordeal with cancer, he is just an amazing guy," Huber said. "It didn't seem to phase him, he lived with it but he never complained, he just forged on and kept a positive attitude at all times." "He was full of life, he was out there in the community all the time, no matter where he was, he was the main attraction and made everybody feel comfortable, he was a very fun guy." A funeral will be held on Oct. 23, 4 p.m., at Springfield Funeral Home in Kelowna. Photo: Contributed Boersma (front right) with the stamp club making a donation to PRH Former Penticton city councillor and prolific community volunteer Gus Boersma has died at age 81. Serving two terms on council between 1999 and 2006, Boersma was also the Mayor of Fernie and councillor in the seventies and eighties. He was the provincial president of the BC Chamber of Commerce in 85/86 and more recently, president of the Penticton and District Stamp Club. He played a large part in the clubs $30,000 donation to the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation's campaign to supply medical equipment to the Penticton Regional Hospital expansion. He was an absolute gentleman, according to Penticton MLA Dan Ashton. So well respected, coming out of Fernie as Mayor and coming to the Okanagan in Penticton he had the community at heart all the time. He was on numerous societies and always, the community was front and centre. Working with him on council was an absolute pleasure, and you couldn't meet a nicer man, Ashton added. Boersma was bestowed with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012 by MP Dan Albas, who tweeted his condolences Sunday. He leaves behind a wife, two children, four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. A funeral will be held Oct. 28, 2 p.m., at the Penticton United Church. Photo: The Canadian Press Legislation allowing ride-sharing in British Columbia is a year away after the province hired an expert today to consult on the best way forward. Transportation Minister Claire Trevena says Dan Hara, who has over two decades of experience, will consult and prepare the taxi industry for services like Uber and Lyft. Trevena says Hara will finish his work early next year and his recommendations will help the province with legislative changes anticipated for next fall. Hara has also been asked to make recommendations to modernize safety regulations, vehicle licensing and other industry regulations. Trevena says people are impatient for change, but the government wants to move sensibly. The opposition Liberals and Greens have campaigned in favour of ride sharing, with the Greens preparing to introduce a private member's bill. Green Leader Andrew Weaver says he is disappointed the NDP will not fulfill an election promise to bring in ride-hailing services by the end of this year. Photo: Contributed (LtoR) Tory MP Dan Albas, Dione Chambers, Chamber G.M., Tory MP Mel Arnold, Markus Schrott, Chamber president Local businesses are pleased to see a drop in small business tax rates, according to the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce. The federal government has announced cuts to the small business tax rate from 10.5 per cent to nine per cent over the next two years. The move follows severe criticism of the Trudeau government over proposed tax reforms. Considering the proposed tax reform changes that will be announced this Wednesday, small business owners really needed some positive news, said Dione Chambers, the chamber's general manager. A number of small business owners across the country have criticized Ottawa for planned changes that they say will hurt their businesses. However, the Vernon chamber is taking a wait and see approach. We recognize that there is support for a more comprehensive tax reform to reduce some of the complexities that business owners face, said Markus Schrott, president of the chamber. The proposed tax reform changes that will be announced on Wednesday are not consistent with the principals of simplicity and integration as they currently stand, so a longer consultation period with key stakeholders was recommended and supported by most organizations. The government is insisting that they are listening and that Wednesdays announcement will take into consideration what they have heard from small businesses owners and the chambers of commerce. Schrott said the chamber wants retroactive measures to be removed from tax reform changes because they definitely fall short on fairness for business owners that have been following the tax rules to date. Working with small business owners in the greater Vernon area, business owners have been managing their tax costs within Canadian tax laws and should not be negatively affected by retroactive measures that the government is still ironing out. The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures are holding a tax talk round table on Thursday, Oct. 19 at 10 a.m. Business owners can pre-register to attend the session by calling 250-545-2216 ext. 200 or via email. Photo: City of Penticton Five lots downtown Penticton are slated to become private parking for employees of Valley First. On Tuesday, city council will receive a rezoning application for the property at the corner of Westminster Avenue and Winnipeg Street. The site previously held a gas station until 2003, when the building was demolished. It's sat empty since. The final design of the new parking lot will feature 39 stalls, and have access coming from the rear lane. As a result, three driveways will need to be closed, and several curbs rebuilt. City staff are recommending the city installs four street trees along the frontage. The parking lot will be open to the public in the evenings and on weekends. Photo: The Canadian Press B.C. Premier John Horgan The B.C. New Democrat government has announced reviews or consultations on a number of issues since coming to power in July. On Monday, the NDP announced it had hired a consultant to review the issue of ride-sharing. Here's a look at the government's approach: Site C: The B.C. Utilities Commission is reviewing the hydroelectric dam project, fulfilling a promise Premier John Horgan made on the campaign trail. The utilities commission released a preliminary report on the $8.8-billion project's future last month, saying it wanted more information before determining whether Site C should proceed. Massey Tunnel replacement: An independent technical review will be done to determine the best option for replacing the aging Massey Tunnel in Metro Vancouver. The previous Liberal government had plans to replace it with a 10-lane bridge but Transportation Minister Claire Trevena said the plan did not have support from mayors and residents. Foreign buyers tax: Housing Minister Selina Robinson is reviewing a tax on foreign real estate buyers in Metro Vancouver and an interest-free loan program for first-time homebuyers. The government wants to know if they are effective in stabilizing the housing market and improving affordability. ICBC: Attorney General David Eby has ordered a full audit of the Crown corporation's operations. Eby said the auto insurance company is in crisis, with financial losses totalling more than $500 million last year. Aquaculture policy and licensing: A committee is examining the aquaculture industry and a report is expected at the end of November. Protesters have occupied a salmon farm near Alert Bay off Vancouver Island. They want the provincial and federal governments to revoke the facility's permits. Money laundering at casinos: A review of the province's polices aimed at preventing money laundering was announced last month after a report concluded a casino had taken in $13.5 million that police said could be proceeds of crime. Marijuana regulation: A public consultation on recreational marijuana began in September to help shape public health and safety issues as the province drafts new regulations. Human rights commission: The province has asked for input on developing a new human rights commission. The New Democrats promised to re-establish the commission after the Liberals dismantled it 15 years ago in favour of the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal. Minimum wage: A fair wages commission has been established to determine how the minimum wage could be raised to $15 per hour without hurting business. The NDP has promised a $15 minimum wage by 2021, but Labour Minister Harry Bains has said it will be up to the commission to determine the deadline. Ride-hailing: The province has hired an industry expert to consult on the best way to help prepare the taxi industry for ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. The NDP had promised to bring in ride-hailing this year, but legislation is now expected next fall. Photo: The Canadian Press A scorched truck and wheelchair outside the remains of a house in the Coffey Park area of Santa Rosa, Calif. The winds eased, some of the smoke began to clear and the forecast Monday offered a tantalizing chance of rain to firefighters trying to corral blazes that have laid waste to California wine country. The improving weather and tightening containment of the flames were tempered by the first death from the firefighting effort a driver who was killed when his truck overturned on a winding mountain road. After days of gusts that fanned the fires, lighter winds offered a chance for crews to make greater gains, and thousands more people were allowed to go home. Many of those who returned knew in advance whether their homes were standing or reduced to ash. Satellite images, aerial photos and news reports with detailed maps of entire neighbourhoods had given homeowners in populated areas a pretty clear idea of the fire's path. The return home was emotional even for those whose properties were spared. "When we came up to check on it, we were amazed it was here," said Tom Beckman, who credited his neighbour's two sheep with chomping vegetation surrounding his home and keeping the fires at bay. "All the trivial things we have to work on cleaning up, replacing the stuff in the fridge and freezer that's nothing compared to my friends who lost their homes," Beckman said. The smell of smoke remained thick in the air and spread to the San Francisco area, but skies were clearer in some places. In the historic main square of the wine and tourist town of Sonoma, a statue of the community's 19th century founder was draped with signs thanking firefighters who saved the town from disaster. "The love in the air is thicker than the smoke," read a sign on the bench that displays the statue of Gen. Mariano Vallejo, which was wearing a face mask. Although the weather was still hot and dry, the calmer winds and the possibility of rain later in the week should help crews tamp down the deadliest, most destructive cluster of blazes in California history. Most of the people reported missing have been located, and authorities said many were false reports from people far away who could not get in touch with friends or relatives. About 100 people remained unaccounted for. Sonoma County Sheriff Rob Giordano said he expects some of those will be found dead in burned-out homes. Photo: Contributed File photo of tractor at work on large dairy farm in Spallumcheen. Industrial orchards in Coldstream and factory farming in Spallumcheen are two reasons why North Okanagan residents must be proactive about health, the environment and quality of life versus development, according to an environmental group. SENS, the Sustainable Environmental Network Society, is holding an event next week to show people how to become effective lobbyists for change. We hope that everyone, who feels that there are damaging projects looming or already happening in their community, will attend this event so we can all be on the same page and work together, said Huguette Allen, SENS spokesperson and former Green Party candidate. Only by being proactive will we prevent and stop pollution from entering our lakes and rivers, preserve what's left of wilderness and ensure our children can live in healthy communities. Allen said politicians, be they local or provincial, sometimes need to be reminded of what they signed on to when they were elected. She said 100 people banding together in support of clean air or clean water works more effectively than just a few. Too often people feel afraid to speak out and feel powerless to make a change....Too often people wait until the problems become so acute as to be practically unsolvable. This SENS evening is designed to show people that there are different tools already available to help us be effective lobbyists for healthy communities that prioritize people and environmental health." The free event takes place Thursday, Oct. 26th from 7-9 p.m. at the Schubert Centre. All are invited. For more information contact: Huguette Allen, 250-547-0272 or by email. Photo: Police photo A warrant says an Atlanta woman put her two young sons in an oven and turned it on. Local media reported Monday that the warrant charging Lamora Williams with murder in the deaths of one-year-old son Ja'Karter Penn and two-year-old Ke-Yaunte Penn says she put them in the oven sometime between midnight Thursday and 11 p.m. Friday. A third boy, three-year-old Jameel Penn Jr., was found unharmed. Williams waived a court appearance Monday and was denied bail. The father of all three children, Jameel Penn, says Williams called him by video chat Friday night to tell him his children were dead. Penn says he called police after seeing his sons on the floor. Williams' sister, Tabitha Hollingsworth, says Williams should be put on suicide watch in the Fulton County jail. Photo: The Canadian Press Bombardier employees work on CSeries 300 jets at the company's plant in Mirabel, Que. European aircraft giant Airbus Group is shaking up the global airline business by buying a majority stake in Bombardier's CSeries program and assembling the plane in the U.S. to avoid import duties. The two aircraft manufacturers announced the partnership Monday evening, weeks after the United States announced 300 per cent preliminary duties on exports of the aircraft following a complaint from Airbus rival Boeing. The partnership is expected to result in significant CSeries production costs savings by leveraging Airbus's global supply chain expertise, but the company won't be paying any money for the acquired stake or absorb Bombardier's large debt. Airbus will acquire a 50.01 per cent interest in the CSeries Aircraft Limited Partnership, which manufactures and sells the plane in exchange for access to Airbus's sales, logistics, procurement and support expertise. Bombardier will own 31 per cent and the Quebec government's investment agency will hold 19 per cent, down from 49.5 per cent when it invested US$1 billion in the program. Airbus can buy out Bombardier after 7.5 years and the Quebec government in 2023. Bombardier CEO Alain Bellemare said Airbus is the perfect partner. "Combining the CSeries with Airbus's global scale creates a remarkable business, and together we will take the CSeries program to new heights," he said in a conference call. He said the partnership should more than double the value of the CSeries program by accelerating sales momentum. "It brings certainty to the future of the program so it increases the level of confidence that the aircraft is there to stay, which means that we will increase volume." Photo: The Canadian Press The United States has lit the fuse on one of Canada's most politically explosive trade issues, asking in NAFTA talks for an end to the supply management system for dairy, chicken, eggs and turkey within the next decade. With that demand, the U.S. has now adopted a highly aggressive posture on virtually all the key issues expected to arise in the current NAFTA talks: it has asked to erect trade barriers in its own politically sensitive sectors, while eliminating them north of the border. The latest demands come near the end of a week-long round where American negotiators dropped one bombshell demand after another, leading the other countries to question whether the U.S. goal is to actually reach a deal or to blow up NAFTA altogether. Two sources tell The Canadian Press the request came on Sunday evening, catching some on the Canadian side off-guard, since they hadn't expected the highly contentious issue to arise during the current round. One source says the supply-management request came with an initial phase-in period of five per cent more market access per year, leading to total duty-free, quota-free trade in supply-managed areas within 10 years. That adds dairy, poultry, and eggs to a list of irritants that includes auto parts, textiles, trade-enforcement panels, Buy American rules for public works and a proposed five-year termination clause embedded in the agreement, with the countries holding not just different positions, but sitting on opposite sides of gaping differences. "Outrageous," said Pierre Lampron, president of the Dairy Farmers of Canada, of the latest proposal. "It would be the end of supply management.... We are not surprised by the U.S. demands, they are in line with the demands they have made in other sectors." The Canadian government, meanwhile, is calling the idea a non-starter. Canada's system of protections was born from a 1960s effort to stabilize dairy prices, and was later emulated in other industries. It works by limiting imports and setting fixed prices. Critics say the tightly controlled program stifles innovation, bars Canadian companies from selling onto international markets, limits choice at the grocery store and saddles Canadian consumers with higher prices. Defenders of the current system say eliminating it would create new problems starting with the billions it would cost to buy out existing quotas. They say the status quo provides stability in rural communities, allows farms to survive without boom-bust cycles, and makes taxpayer bailouts unnecessary. Photo: The Canadian Press Federal health officials say some farm-raised Pacific oysters are being recalled due to a marine biotoxin which causes paralytic shellfish poisoning. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says the oysters were produced by two firms in Richmond, B.C. Albion Farms and Fisheries Ltd. and Union Bay Seafood Ltd. The Albion Farms oysters were sold from Oct. 9 to Oct. 16 and the Union Bay oysters were sold from Oct. 10 to Oct. 16. The CFIA says the products were sold in Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec but may have been distributed in other provinces and territories. Paralytic shellfish toxins are a group of natural toxins that sometimes accumulate in shellfish. Symptoms includes tingling and numbness of the lips, tongue, hands and feet, and difficulty swallowing. In severe situations, this can lead to difficulty walking, muscle paralysis, respiratory paralysis and death. The CFIA says there have been no reported illnesses linked to eating these oysters. The recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the location where purchased. The CFIA says it is verifying that industry is removing the recalled product from the marketplace. Additional details are available on the CFIA website. Photo: The Canadian Press Tom and Catherine Andrews live on the edge of devastation. On one side of their mid-century style home, the deadly wildfires that ravaged parts of Northern California for more than a week wiped away the houses of neighbours they have known as long as two decades. On the other side, were those like the Andrews, who were spared. On Monday as calm winds gave an advantage to firefighters trying to tame the flames, the couple balanced their good fortune against the losses suffered by many friends. "It was disbelief and just feeling like the luckiest guy on earth," Tom Andrews said. "I can't believe, I mean, total destruction 50 feet away and to have our house still standing here." For his wife, a real estate agent who sold many of the homes to friends on Wikiup Drive, there was bitter along with the sweet. "It's heartbreaking," she said. "I'm trying not to have survivor's guilt, I think they call it. But we've been here 20 years this week. We raised our kids in this house. So many of the families on this hill raised their kids." After days of wind gusts that constantly fanned the fires, lighter wind offered a chance for crews to make greater gains, and thousands more people were allowed to go home more than a week after the blazes that have killed more than 40 people began. Improving weather, the prospect of some rain later in the week and tightening containment of the flames were tempered by the first death from the firefighting effort a driver who was killed when his truck overturned on a winding mountain road. Many of those who returned knew in advance whether their homes were standing or reduced to ash. Satellite images, aerial photos and news reports with detailed maps of entire neighbourhoods had given homeowners in populated areas a pretty clear idea of the fire's path. Some had seen the flames coming as they fled. Some families in rural areas had to wait until they laid eyes on their property. The return home was emotional even for those whose properties were spared. "When we came up to check on it, we were amazed it was here," said Tom Beckman, who credited his neighbour's two sheep with chomping vegetation surrounding his home and keeping the fires at bay. "All the trivial things we have to work on cleaning up, replacing the stuff in the fridge and freezer that's nothing compared to my friends who lost their homes," Beckman said. Photo: The Canadian Press The sky over the London Eye is bathed in a dull orange sky in London, Monday. The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia slammed into Ireland with wind gusts of up to 130 km/h on Monday, killing at least three people, grounding planes, shutting schools and causing widespread power outages. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar urged people to stay indoors until the storm passed. Tens of thousands of homes were without power and the military was placed on standby. Some hurricane-force gusts were reported 30 years to the day after a weather event dubbed the "Great Storm of 1987" battered southern England. "It is a very dangerous storm," Varadkar said. "The last time there was a storm this severe, 11 lives were lost," he added, referring to Hurricane Debbie, which hit Ireland in 1961. Although Ophelia has been downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone, Ireland's National Emergency Coordination Group on Severe Weather warned that the storm is still "unprecedented, with serious life-threatening conditions." Ireland's weather service, Met Eireann, described the storm as the most powerful on record to have ever been this far east in the Atlantic. Forecasters warned of flying debris, such as tiles blown from roofs. Large waves around coastal districts tossed sand and rocks onto coastal roads, seafronts and properties. Wind warnings were in place for Northern Ireland, parts of Wales and western parts of England. Planes were grounded at several locations in the British Isles. Some 130 flights were cancelled at Dublin Airport, while flights were also grounded at Manchester Airport. Both Ryanair and Easy Jet cancelled flights at Belfast International Airport, with more cancellations expected. Several flights to British airports were also diverted because of unusual odours on board thought to be associated with the remnants of the storm. In parts of the United Kingdom and in France's Brittany region, the sky turned an eerie colour as Ophelia's winds carried a mix of sand from the Sahara and particles from forest fires in Spain and Portugal. On social media, people posted pictures of London landmarks against yellow-orange skies. Photo: Tourism Victoria A study has found Victoria is the best city in Canada to be a woman, in spite of the wage gap between men and women worsening slightly there in recent years. The study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives looks at differences between men's and women's access to economic and personal security, education, health and positions of leadership in Canada's 25 biggest cities. The CCPA says Victoria is the only city on the list where more women than men are employed, and they account for nearly half of all senior managers and elected officials. But it says the wage gap in the city is on par with the rest of the country, with women earning 73 per cent of what men do slightly worse than five years ago. In Windsor, Ont., the city ranked worst in the study, the wage gap is actually smaller than average, with women making about 75 per cent of what men earn. But only 23 per cent of elected officials and 34 per cent of senior managers in the region are women, and women are more likely to be living below the poverty line than men. "Our prime minister is setting a feminist agenda for his government. That means federal departments are starting to ask the right questions about how their policies and programs impact men and women differently," says study author Kate McInturff, a senior researcher at CCPA. The CCPA also says that sexual assault is the only violent crime that's not on the decline in Canada, and every city still struggles with high rates of sexual and domestic violence. Photo: Alberta Energy New research suggests industry and government are badly underestimating Alberta's emissions of one of the most potent greenhouse gases. The difference between official estimates and the measured results suggests the province's energy industry could have to double its planned methane emission cuts if Alberta is to meet its promised 45 per cent reduction. "A lot of eyes are going to be really wide when they see the comparison," said Carleton University's Matt Johnson, author of the study published in Environmental Science and Technology. "If we thought it was bad, it's worse." Currently, industry is only required to report how much methane is released during flaring and venting. So-called fugitive emissions from equipment such as leaky valves have only been estimated. Johnson's study is the first to use aerial flyovers of oil and gas fields to actually measure released methane, a greenhouse gas about 30 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. The planes made seven passes over a region of conventional oil and gas around Red Deer in central Alberta and four passes over the heavy oil centre of Lloydminster. The surveys were done over 10 days last fall. The planes flew over thousands of wells in both areas to reduce the odds that results were distorted by unusually high releases from a few sites, said Johnson. Researchers were able to distinguish between industrial and agricultural methane emissions by tracking trace amounts of ethane a gas released by oil and gas wells, but not by cattle. "That allows us to attribute it," Johnson said. In Lloydminster, results from the airborne tests found the type of heavy oil recovery used in that area released 3.6 times more methane than previously thought. That same heavy oil technique is widely used elsewhere in Alberta, including the Peace River, Cold Lake and Athabasca regions. If methane emissions from those other regions are equally underreported, Johnson said, Alberta could be underestimating releases of the gas by as much as 50 per cent. Photo: The Canadian Press Actress Alyssa Milano Alyssa Milano was in bed with her two young children when a friend of a friend on Facebook suggested something that struck her as a great way to elevate the Harvey Weinstein conversation. She took the idea to Twitter, posting: "If you've been sexually harassed or assaulted write 'me too' as a reply to this tweet." That was Sunday night. By Monday night, more than 53,000 people had left comments and thousands of women had declared "Me Too," sharing their stories of rape, sexual assault and harassment across social media, including some for the first time. The hashtag was tweeted nearly half a million times in 24 hours, according to Twitter. Some left it at, simply: "Me Too," without explanation, and a small contingent of men have posted: "I Have," noting shock at the groundswell and remorse for their own past misdeeds. Milano said the idea was to elevate the Harvey Weinstein conversation, placing the emphasis on victims rather than perpetrators and offering a glimpse into the number of women who continue to be victimized. The disgraced film mogul has been accused by more than three dozen women of harassment or abuse. "My hope is people will get the idea of the magnitude, of just how many people have been affected by this in the world, in our lifetimes, in this country," Milano said in a phone interview with The Associated Press on Monday. "The most important thing that it did was to shift the conversation away from the predator and to the victim." Photo: The Canadian Press Sen. John McCain receives the Liberty Medal from former vice-president Joe Biden, in Philadelphia, Monday. U.S. Sen. John McCain jabbed Monday night at unnamed pushers of isolationist politics, saying at his National Constitution Center Liberty Medal ceremony in Philadelphia that abandoning America's role as an international leader is "unpatriotic." The six-term Republican senator from Arizona made the remarks after receiving the award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the country. In addition to recalling his more than two decades of Navy service and his imprisonment in a Vietnam prisoner of war camp, McCain took a moment to go a step further than the night's other speakers, who lamented what many described as a fractured political climate. "To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems," he said, "is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history." He continued: "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil." None of the speakers, who included former Vice-President Joe Biden, mentioned any current or former government officials during their remarks. But many referenced a time when bipartisanship namely, the friendship between McCain and the Democrat Biden wasn't out of the ordinary. "We often argued sometimes passionately," McCain said of himself and the former vice-president. "But we believed in each other's patriotism and the sincerity of each other's convictions. We believed in the institution we were privileged to serve in." Photo: Wikimedia Commons A Kamloops man who recently lost his mother is fighting for his own life after a bureaucratic mix-up declared him dead. Bryan Kupiak, 65, is healthy, but says somehow his social insurance number was substituted for his mother's after she died in September. A death certificate with Kupiak's name on it was issued to his estate. He says the mix-up has cost him access to his own pension and he has also had to ensure his bank accounts, driver's licence and other important documents and services have not been compromised. Kupiak has been working with Service Canada and his member of Parliament but says the stress is intense. He has been told it could take another month or more to resolve the problem. A telephone call to an official at the old age security office, which handles pension issues, confirmed Kupiak's predicament. "He comes back on (the line) and I said, 'Tell me, Mohammed, am I dead or alive?' and he says, 'You're deceased.'" Kupiak says the hardship is especially difficult to endure because he is still grieving the loss of his 87-year-old mother. Photo: The Canadian Press Workers at the Signorello Estate winery install new irrigation pipes to replace ones burned by wildfires. As fire crews gain on wildfires burning for more than a week in Northern California's wine country, new fires broke out in other parts of the state, including northeast of Los Angeles. Fire fighters are battling a blaze that sprang up overnight in the southern Bay Area Santa Cruz mountains, prompting evacuation orders and threatening 100 homes. The fire has torched about 125 acres. At least one structure was destroyed, Rob Sherman, assistant chief of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, told KNTV news. Further south, crews with air support are racing to protect a historic observatory and communications towers from a growing brush fire on Mount Wilson northeast of Los Angeles. The blaze was initially estimated at around 5 acres (2 hectares). Officials say the observatory has been evacuated and the fire is not burning near foothill residences. A week after fleeing wildfires in Northern California, tens of thousands of people are drifting back into their neighbourhoods. Some will face the prospect of destroyed homes. All will face the possibility of lasting emotional damage. The cluster of wildfires has been burning in Northern California's wine country for more than a week. The fires, the deadliest cluster in California history, have killed at least 41 people and destroyed nearly 6,000 homes. "It's never going to be the same," said Rob Brown, a supervisor in Mendocino County, where all 8,000 evacuees were cleared to go home Monday. "You're going to have to seek a new normal." The thousands of calls coming from concerned residents in neighbouring Sonoma County "have shifted from questions about evacuation to questions about coping," Sonoma County Supervisor Shirlee Zane said. "Many people who call are sad and worried, the shock has worn off and the sadness, depression and loss is setting in." Photo: Contributed (L-R) Canada Post's Donna Henri, CMHA's Julia Payson &Karen Plessis. The Canada Post Foundation has donated $10,000 to improve youth mental health services in Greater Vernon. The grant will be used to expand the Canadian Mental Health Association's 'Super Saturday' program for youth who have a parent with a mental illness. One Saturday a month, children aged 7-12 are involved in a day-long set of activities they might not otherwise get the chance to experience, all the while building a peer support network with other youth facing similar circumstances. CMHA Vernon developed the Super Saturday program two years ago to provide youth with a safe space to share feelings and connect socially, while dealing with the stigma that families often face when impacted by mental illness or addiction issues. The donation will allow the CMHA to expand the program for youth aged 13-17. Since joining Super Saturday I have noticed that I am a bit less shy and I have gained confidence, said one participant. The funds from the Canada Post Foundation mean we can build in the success of Super Saturday to offer a program for older youth, said Julia Payson, CMHA Vernon executive director. The new Friday Night Live program provides life skills, education and recreation in order to provide a stable support network to manage their mental wellness through their teen years. The Canada Post Foundation supports organizations working to improve youth mental health throughout the country. In the past five years, the Foundation has donated more than $6 million. There is such a strong need for more youth mental health services in our community, said Donna Henri, Canada Post acting superintendent.It is wonderful to be able to help those families in need in our community. UPDATE: 11:30 a.m. High winds tore off some roofing material, which pulled electrical wires from the roof of the West Kelowna business. The wires were arcing, causing sparks and a few flames that were quickly doused. Staff evacuated the building, and firefighters got up on the roof to ensure no fire had spread. Utility crews were also on scene. ORIGINAL: 10:45 a.m. Fire crews are responding to a roof fire at Dynamic Transmissions in West Kelowna. Power lines are reported to be down and arcing on the roof of the building on Byland Road, near Daimler Drive. The extent of the fire is not yet known, but Castanet has a reporter en route to the scene. Winds are gusting strongly and are forecast to peak at up to 90 km/h in the Okanagan-Shuswap, according to Environment Canada. Send your news, photos and video to [email protected] Photo: BC Transit The route 60 bus travels between Enderby, Armstrong and Vernon. The City of Enderby is supporting a call for a review of the public transit system in the North Okanagan, said Mayor Greg McCune. Council received a letter from Armstrong Mayor Chris Pieper at its meeting Monday night that questioned the cost allocation model. In other words, the City of Armstrong is not happy with how much it is paying for the bus service. We do support the process of reviewing something that started many years ago, said McCune. It's just fairness. McCune said a review could require Enderby to possibly pay more for the daily service. Meanwhile, Pieper said the City of Armstrong had asked the North Okanagan Regional District and BC Transit to review the funding model but that hasn't happened. The only other option we had was to ask for a service review. We are open to communication with the regional district or we can go to a service review. Pieper said there were inequities between all of the users in the service. We aren't complaining about the service...it's the amount each community has to subsidize the service. Photo: Google Street View David Thompson Elementary An 11-year-old girl kept her wits about her while an unidentified man allegedly attempted to lure her into his vehicle. The incident occurred Monday afternoon in front of David Thompson Elementary in Kamloops. According to police, the girl was waiting in front of the school when a man approached her, saying he was there to pick her up. The girl asked the man what her mother's name was, which he was unable to provide. He apparently then told the girl he worked with her dad, and was asked to come and pick her up. He wasn't able to provide her father's name, either. The man walked away without making any attempt to grab the child. The girl went into the school to report the incident. Police are looking to speak with the man. He is described as Caucasian, in his twenties, with lip and eyebrow piercings. He was clean shaven, with dirty blond, shaggy hair. The suspect was wearing tight blue jeans, a dark shirt and a red, flat-brimmed hat. His vehicle was described as an older, dark burgundy Chevrolet truck. It had a matching canopy. Anyone who may recognize the man, might have witnessed the incident, or could have video surveillance is asked to contact Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000. A major international group advocating for women in tech has picked a Chicagoan as its new leader. Chicago Public Schools' former director of computer science, Brenda Darden Wilkerson, has been named president and CEO of AnitaB.org, the 20-year-old Palo Alto-based organization formerly known as the Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology. Advertisement Wilkerson knows about spreading opportunities and inclusiveness in tech: She's the woman behind the CPS mandate "Computer Science for All," which requires at least one credit of computer science training for graduation. The Kansas City, Mo., native and Northwestern grad is the third woman to head the organization. She follows Telle Whitney, who served from 2002 through this year; Whitney succeeded Anita Borg herself. Advertisement Fresh from the Grace Hopper Celebration, AnitaB.org's conference this month that drew 18,000 people to Orlando, Fla., Wilkerson talked with Blue Sky about her new role. Q: As an African-American woman, how do you approach leadership of this organization? A: I know what it's like to be the only. I know what it's like to be the only woman. I know what it's like to be the only black person. I know what it's like to be in many of these situations that women will face in tech because I've been there. I was in tech for half of my career before I came into education, so I can relate to the women's experiences, and I believe they can relate to me. Q: How did you learn about the job? A: I was recommended by Megan Smith (who was Chief Technology Officer of the United States under President Obama). I didn't know of the opportunity. I got a chance to meet her as part of the work we did with the national computer science initiatives in the Obama White House. Q: What sparked your interest in technology? A: It was quite by accident. I was not exposed at all before I got to college. I went as a pre-med student. But, in my college, there was no such thing as a pre-med major. So you have to find a major that covers all of the requirements, and I chose biomedical engineering. As luck would have it, engineers had to take two programming courses, and that was my absolute first exposure. It turned out to be something that totally changed my trajectory, and it's been my career path my whole adult life. Advertisement Q: So CPS students can thank you for the new computer science requirement? A: It's actually the freshmen and sophomores. It starts with the class of 2020 that will need to graduate with at least one credit of computer science. That was the dream. And I can't tell you how exciting that was to realize that. It was really born out of my own experiences to only come upon computer science accidentally. It was bad enough for me, but it should not be the case where there are young women and young people of color who are finding out accidentally about something that is impactful to our entire way of life. Q: Was that difficult to push through? A: I did the work alone for a year. You know Chicago. Budgets are always tight. Politics are always an issue. It seems really odd now, but at the time it was an uphill battle. People didn't believe in it, or even understand what we were talking about. It was just about putting our heads down and doing the work. Q: How early should students be exposed to tech? Advertisement A: Especially with underserved populations, we all know the data rural and underrepresented groups will decide whether STEM (science, technology engineering and math) is for them or not by fifth grade, which is why we pushed back into the elementary space and said, "Let's help little girls and little black and brown kids get this exposure before they get talked out of it. Before they get told for 13 years running, 'This is not for you.'" That's why we said we're going to start with girls in kindergarten. We're seeing the impact, where they're seeing it's not someone else's. It's theirs. Q: Are you moving to California? A: I'm going to be based in Chicago for the next two years. I have a son who is a junior in high school, so I will be traveling to Palo Alto. Q: Chicago has no shortage of women-focused business and tech groups. What does Anita B.org offer that's different? A: We are putting our finger on the pulse of the elevation of women in tech internationally. We are a global society. And I think one of our challenges is to balance the on-the-ground local connection with representing the needs of women worldwide. Advertisement Q: How do you plan to expand the community? A: One of the things I want to do is to extend our opportunity to so many more women. I think there are a lot of women who don't yet know how much we care about them and how much we are there for them, as well. I want to expand our definition of women technologists. Not that it was ever limited before, but I think it might have been limited in the minds of some women. I want to start out by listening to different groups of women and to hear what their challenges are and what their desires are. I don't want to assume we know every little thing about every woman. I think that's one of the things that we suffer from, is that we're viewed as a monolith. Q-and-As are edited for clarity and length. Cheryl V. Jackson is a freelance writer. Twitter @CherylVJackson While a new City Hall email shows Chicago aldermen floated numerous ideas to raise taxes to close a 2018 budget hole, it's two tax hikes not on the list that are far more likely to be part of Mayor Rahm Emanuel's new spending plan. One is a $1.10-a-month increase in the 911 emergency services fee on all landline and cellphones billed to city addresses. The mayor's lobbying in Springfield made that one possible, as lawmakers this year authorized Chicago to vote on the 911 increase, which could bring in about $40 million a year. Advertisement The other is an increase in city fees on Uber and Lyft rides. The Emanuel administration already has released its justifications, saying that ride-sharing services have cost the city and other local governments $40 million in lost revenue. There's currently a 52-cent fee on all trips arranged through ride-sharing apps, and one alderman has suggested the per-ride fee could rise to $1. There's also a $5 fee for pickups and drop-offs at the city's two major airports, McCormick Place and Navy Pier. Advertisement Those revenue-raising ideas were not explored in an email sent out Friday by the mayor's Office of Legislative Counsel and Government Affairs. The message included 16 "information sheets," most of which dealt with the idea of increasing various taxes, fees and fines. The chances of any of them surfacing in Emanuel's Wednesday budget speech appear slim, given the pitfalls the administration highlighted and political considerations involved. One unidentified alderman proposed licensing bicycles as a way to collect more money. The administration found that licensing the city's estimated 705,000 bicycles would bring in $3.5 million to $7 million, depending on whether the one-time registration fee was $5 or $10. Annual revenue after the first year would diminish to $500,000 to $1 million. But it would cost $836,000 to run the program during the first year and $231,000 each year after that. Other cities, like Los Angeles, dropped their bicycle licensing programs after determining the cost of running them wasn't worth it, the city noted. Meanwhile, the Emanuel administration cited even greater problems with the idea of taxing bicycle sales, which could run afoul of the state constitution and push bike sales out to suburban shops. Another idea, taxing financial transactions made at the Chicago Board Options Exchange and Chicago Mercantile Exchange, has long been pushed by the City Council's Progressive Reform Caucus. But that would require a change to state law, navigating the complexities of federal law and could trigger moves out of town by the exchanges, the city's information sheet noted. Among ideas for which no major drawbacks were listed was increasing the cost of annual residential parking passes and the amount paid for books of 15 guest passes, something the city last did long before Emanuel took office in 2011. That could add $4.8 million a year to the bottom line, if the city increased the yearly residential cost to $40 from $25 and the guest pass books to $16 from $8. Such a fee hike, however, could hamper Emanuel's appointed city clerk, Anna Valencia, in her first run for office in early 2019. The clerk's office administers the parking permit program and could end up taking the heat. Ald. Raymond Lopez, 15th, said many people feel like the permits aren't even enforced and could be upset with paying an increased cost for a supposed benefit they say they don't receive. Lopez, in fact, said the city needs to be careful about any new taxes or fees, given last week's Cook County Board repeal of the highly unpopular penny-an-ounce soda tax. The mayor, Lopez said, needs to consider "whatever is the least dangerous, because I don't think any one of us wants to have our own soda issue." Advertisement One idea addressed in the administration information sheets was increasing the city's 3 percent tax on pre-packaged soft drinks, 9 percent tax on the syrup used to mix fountain drinks and 50-cent fee on a bottle of water. A 1-percentage-point increase in the city's pop taxes coupled with a penny-per-bottle increase in the bottled water tax would bring in an extra $5.8 million a year, the city figured. Some key aldermen are scheduled to be briefed Tuesday on the mayor's new spending plan. Emanuel already has proposed changing the way amusement taxes are assessed, raising them to 9 percent from 5 percent on all nonsporting events like concerts, comedy shows and plays at venues with more than 1,500 seats. That would raise $15.8 million a year. In addition, the mayor hopes to save tens of millions of dollars a year in debt payments by taking advantage of a new bond restructuring that he's already set in motion and hopes to complete before the year is out. Still, it likely will take more than that to fill what the administration projects as a $114.2 million budget hole, especially since that doesn't include three big-ticket items Emanuel already has promised: $80 million to pick up building security costs at Chicago Public Schools, $70 million needed to hire more cops and $24 million more for police reform. Although the mayor's office was mum Monday on new tax, fee and fine increases, Emanuel spokesman Adam Collins said the mayor would highlight a property tax break signed into law by Gov. Bruce Rauner in August that will soften the blow of a series of record tax hikes at the city and CPS particularly for people living in less pricey homes and lower-income senior citizens. It would increase the homeowner's exemption to $10,000 from $7,000, and the additional exemption for seniors earning less than $65,000 a year to $8,000 from $5,000. City spokeswoman Molly Poppe also said the mayor plans to highlight putting an end to scoop-and-toss borrowing, which involves paying off old bonds with the proceeds from new ones a practice akin to taking out another mortgage on a house to pay off the old mortgage, kicking payments down the road. Emanuel was able to keep that pledge because the city already issued $440 million in scoop-and-toss debt in January an amount that will help the city make bond payments in 2018 and 2019. Advertisement hdardick@chicagotribune.com Twitter @ReporterHal RELATED [ Emanuel floats $24M in new police training, community policing money in '18 budget ] [ Emanuel's debt plan gets City Council nod despite some protests ] The Democratic candidates for governor sought to sell themselves to primary voters at a Tuesday night forum in Aurora, but much of the focus was on a guy who wasn't on the stage: veteran Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, who also heads the Illinois Democratic Party. State Sen. Daniel Biss and businessman Chris Kennedy ripped Madigan, saying he's been in office too long and wields too much power. Meanwhile, entrepreneur and philanthropist J.B. Pritzker, who has received the backing of much of the Democratic establishment, declined to say whether it's time for Madigan to go. Advertisement "He's been around an awful long time," said Pritzker, who suggested that putting in place term limits on legislative leaders is "an answer to that question." Pritzker said he and Madigan agree on some issues, but disagree on others, such as term limits and restrictions on the influence of politics when drawing legislative boundaries. "There is no chance I will be working for the speaker; the only people I will work for are the people of Illinois," Pritzker said. Advertisement Biss contended Madigan's grip has not only hurt Illinois but also prevented Democrats from pushing for progressive policies, saying it was "time for him to go." Kennedy raised concerns about Madigan owning a property tax appeals law firm while also overseeing laws relating to property taxes, which are the primary source of education funding in Illinois. "I don't think that what Speaker Madigan is doing is illegal, I just think it should be," Kennedy said. Bob Daiber, the Madison County regional schools superintendent, offered a strong defense of Madigan, saying Madigan "isn't given credit" for what he has accomplished, including holding "Illinois together in difficult times." Madigan has been speaker for all but two years since 1983, and his influence on state government and politics has long loomed large. Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner has sought to make Madigan a liability, spending tens of millions of dollars in recent years to brand him as the cause of the state's economic and financial problems. While the speaker has brushed aside the attacks, he recently launched a new website aimed at rehabbing his image. It features photos of him smiling while reading to children, casting Madigan as a Democrat "standing up for progressive change." The debate exchange on the merits of Madigan came after the candidates clashed on the growing influence of money in politics, as billionaire Pritzker defended using his personal wealth to seek office while those with fewer resources bemoaned average citizens were being shut out. Pritzker, who is self-funding his campaign, blamed Rauner for opening the floodgates by giving his campaign $50 million late last year, contending Democrats will need cash to build up infrastructure that could defeat the GOP. Biss said Democrats should focus on building support using people, not money. "We've got to decide: Do we want to have an election or do we want to have an auction?" he said. Advertisement Kennedy joked that he "thought" he came from a wealthy family before seeing the amount of money that's flowed in the race, which prompted Pritzker to shoot back, "You do." The hourlong forum was held at Aurora University and was broadcast on WGN-AM 720. It followed the release of new campaign disclosure reports that show Pritzker has spent the most money on the race. The investor and Hyatt Hotel heir spent $11.7 million from July through September, campaign finance records show. Pritzker has put $28.2 million into his bid for governor, including $7 million that came in this month after the reporting period. During the third quarter, Pritzker spent nearly $6.9 million on TV ads, $1.2 million for consulting and more than $620,000 on campaign payroll. Kennedy, an heir of the iconic Massachusetts political family, raised just more than $1 million for his Democratic bid for governor, including $250,000 from himself at the end of last month. For the quarter, Kennedy spent nearly $665,000 and began October with $1.3 million in his campaign fund. Kennedy spent nearly $234,000 on consulting, $103,000 on research and more than $178,000 on payroll. Biss, of Evanston, reported raising more than $837,000 to go with the $2.3 million he had in his campaign account at the start of July. Biss spent just more than a half-million dollars in the quarter and had $2.7 million to start October. Advertisement Daiber, the lone Downstater in the Democratic governor race, raised only $16,199, which included a $10,000 loan from himself. He spent $14,141 in the quarter and began October with $12,021. He has now lent his campaign $40,000. Activist Tio Hardiman, who got 28 percent of the vote in a losing 2014 challenge to then-Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn, gave himself $5,000 of the $5,445 he raised for the quarter and spent $1,868. He reported $3,576 to begin October. The winner of the March Democratic primary is likely to take on Rauner in the November 2018 general election. The Republican governor may be facing discontent within his own party and talk of a potential primary challenger, but his $65.6 million war chest still represents a formidable sum as he seeks a second term. Rauner spent $2.5 million in the third quarter of the year with more than $1 million on advertising. Rauner raised more than $400,000 during the time period, despite having his own deep pockets as well as those of allies he can continue to count on. In December, Rauner put $50 million of his personal wealth from his days as a private equity investor into his campaign. In May, billionaire hedge fund founder Ken Griffin gave the governor another $20 million to seed the re-election bid. mcgarcia@chicagotribune.com Advertisement rap30@aol.com Citing past clashes and protests, Florida Gov. Rick Scott on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, declared a state of emergency in advance of a speech by white nationalist Richard Spencer, which is scheduled to give at the University of Florida on Thursday. (David J. Phillip / AP) TALLAHASSEE, Fla. Citing past clashes and protests, Florida Gov. Rick Scott on Monday declared a state of emergency in advance of a speech white nationalist Richard Spencer is scheduled to give at the University of Florida. The state's Republican governor warned in an executive order Monday that a "threat of a potential emergency is imminent" in Alachua County, in north Florida. Spencer is slated to speak at the campus on Thursday and his pending appearance has already sparked protests in the university town. Advertisement Spencer participated in a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that led to deadly violence in August. Scott's executive order will allow local law-enforcement authorities to partner with state and other law-enforcement agencies to provide security for the event. The university has already said it expects to spend $500,000 on security. Advertisement The governor is also activating the Florida National Guard to help with security if it is needed. Scott said he declared the emergency after discussing Spencer's speech with Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell. "We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority," Scott said in a statement. "This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe." Richard Spencer said the emergency declaration was "flattering" but "most likely overkill." "I'm not a hurricane or an invading army, at least not literally," he said during a telephone interview Monday. However, Spencer expressed concern that the emergency declaration could be used as a pretext for blocking his speech. He noted that Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe had declared a state of emergency on the day of the Charlottesville rally before Spencer and others could speak. "That was basically a means for suppressing the rally," Spencer claimed. When he issued the declaration, McAuliffe had said via his Twitter account that he did it in order "to aid state response to violence" at the Charlottesville rally. University of Florida officials said it was the violence in Virginia that led them to reject a request from Spencer and his National Policy Institute, a white nationalist think tank, to allow him to speak in September. After they threatened to sue, school officials said they would try to accommodate Spencer if he renewed his request for a different date. Advertisement University of Florida President Kent Fuchs earlier this month asked students to stay away from the campus event. He wrote in an email that Spencer and his group seek only "to provoke a reaction." Darnell said Scott's executive order was not intended to "alarm anyone," but to make sure that her office has the "resources and equipment to help us prepare for violence or widespread property damage." Darnell said currently they are expecting both protesters and counterprotesters to show up in connection to Spencer's appearance. "We are hoping this is a nonevent," Darnell said. "We are hoping this will go very smoothly and peacefully. But in the reality of this world we have to be well prepared." AP reporter Michael Kunzelman contributed to this story from Baton Rouge, La. RELATED Richard Spencer leads another white nationalist march at Lee statue in Charlottesville Rescue boats surround a rig in Lake Pontchartrain near New Orleans, La., after the rig exploded late on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017. The explosion took place Sunday night in Lake Pontchartrain in St. Charles Parish, a Louisiana police department said. (Chris Granger / AP) Authorities have stopped searching for a man who went missing after an oil rig exploded on Sunday in a Louisiana lake. The Coast Guard suspended the search for 44-year-old Timothy Morrison just after 7 p.m. Monday, a full 24 hours after the blast in Lake Pontchartrain, off Kenner, Louisiana, just west of New Orleans. Eight people, including Morrison, were aboard the offshore platform when it exploded. Seven made it to shore and were taken to local hospitals with burns, authorities said. Advertisement "The decision to suspend a search is never an easy one," Coast Guard Cmdr. Zac Ford said in a statement. "We send our thoughts and prayers to the Morrison family and all those affected by this incident." Officials are still investigating the cause, though they said cleaning chemicals ignited on the surface of the oil rig platform. The owner of the platform, Clovelly Oil Co. Inc., hired a Houston subcontractor to clean the platform's pipes, authorities said. Advertisement The platform, located in an unincorporated part of Jefferson Parrish, is used to transfer oil from wells in the area. It burned through the night Sunday, as fire crews worked to stop any flow of oil into the rig, said East Bank Consolidated Fire Department Chief Dave Tibbetts. The fire was under control by Monday morning. Five of the injured suffered "blast-type injuries and burns," Mike Guillot, director of East Jefferson Emergency Medical Services, told reporters Sunday. By Monday morning, three remained in the hospital, one still in the intensive care unit. The other four have been discharged. Three of those injured were employees of Clovelly Oil, the company said in a statement. The others, including Morrison, worked for contractors. Morrison was a resident of Katy, Texas, west of Houston. In a statement to KHOU in Houston, Morrison's family described him as a "beloved father, husband, brother, and friend." Officials acknowledged that oil may have leaked into Lake Pontchartrain, but Jefferson Parish President Mike Yenni told reporters that residents' drinking water comes from the Mississippi River, which was untouched by the explosion. Resident Roger Fernandez, who said he lives just two blocks from the lake, ran out of his home after the blast "shook me out of my couch." A Facebook Live video he shared at about 8:30 p.m. Sunday shows a massive fire amid a sea of black. "If you heard a big explosion in North Kenner, there's an oil rig . . . that blew up. It's still popping and flaming away . . . I'm just hoping there's no one on that oil rig," Fernandez can be heard saying in the video. Advertisement Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn said there's no indication that the explosion has or will damage nearby houses. He said the blast startled residents, and some reported hearing pebbles raining on their homes. "My house actually shook," resident Andrew Love told the Times Picayune. "At first I thought it was a sonic boom or something. I had no idea what was happening." This frame grab from video released Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, and provided by Hawar News Agency, a Syrian Kurdish activist-run media group, shows fighters from the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) celebrating their victory in Raqqa, Syria. U.S.-backed Syrian forces liberated the city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants on Tuesday, a senior commander for the force said. (Handout, AP) The once-fearsome Islamic State army now staggers through its last days. U.S.-backed Kurdish fighters declared Tuesday that they had recaptured Raqqa, the self-proclaimed capital of the fast-crumbling caliphate. That is a swift and remarkable achievement for an improbable coalition of global friends, enemies and frenemies who looked past other conflicts to focus on crushing the barbarous Islamic State. Does this portend an interlude of relative calm in the Middle East? Sadly, not likely. Advertisement Three thoughts about the terrain ahead: Islamic State, the army, is in shambles. But Islamic State, the jihadist rallying cry, will likely continue to inspire terror attacks around the globe. That calls for a stronger global strategy to quash the group's online recruitment and radicalizing of young people. Advertisement Ally vs. ally: Iraq's army and Kurdish fighters, two U.S. allies, helped defeat Islamic State. Unfortunately they're now skirmishing with each other. Iraqi government forces have reclaimed control of the Kurdish northern city of Kirkuk after the Kurds voted to seek independence several weeks ago. Neighboring Turkey and Syria also oppose Kurdish independence. Absent strong U.S. diplomacy, the threat of civil war looms. Chaos = opportunity for U.S. adversaries Iran and Russia. Each used the fight against Islamic State to increase its footprint in the region while diminishing the threat from Islamic State. How will Washington and ally Israel respond to these adversaries, each determined to grow its influence in the Middle East? A look back before a look forward: Recall the panic in 2014 when Islamic State rampaged onto the world stage, intent on marking its caliphate in blood from Syria and Iraq. The militants posted videos of crucifixions and public executions. They celebrated public beheadings. They hoisted the severed heads of Syrian soldiers on poles. They captured women as sex slaves and forced brides. They seized so much territory so fast that some Iraqis feared they would march on Baghdad and split the country not quite three years after the last U.S. troops had left. President Barack Obama, who had famously dismissed Islamic State as the "junior varsity," belatedly reversed course. He vowed to "degrade and ultimately destroy" Islamic State. That demanded mostly non-American boots on the ground and a vigorous follow-through by President Donald Trump, who armed the Syrian Kurds to help recapture Raqqa. Islamic State's power grab and brutal tactics managed to unite (more or less) the U.S. and a list of its adversaries and allies. Thus did the U.S. find itself in a foxhole with Russia, Iraq, Iran, Syria and Turkey. Holding together that potentially fractious coalition has been no small feat. Iraqi troops and Iranian-backed Shiite militias, backed by U.S. airstrikes and special operations commandos, battled Islamic State militants in Mosul street by street for nearly nine months. Meanwhile, a joint Syrian Kurdish and Arab militia moved on Raqqa. Russia and Turkey also launched joint airstrikes on Islamic State strongholds in Syria. And Turkey allowed allied forces the use of its key Incirlik air base. After Raqqa, what? Iraq's Shiite-dominated government still isn't sharing power with Sunni political leaders, the key to reconciliation. That's why majority-Sunni cities like Mosul often welcomed, or didn't resist, Islamic State forces. Without reconciliation Iraq remains poised on a sectarian and ethnic fault line of long-standing feuds and resentments. That means Islamic State fighters could also regroup and launch an insurgency that would again test the military prowess of Iraqi forces. Advertisement The most immediate aim, however, is to quell the growing conflict between Iraq's government and the breakaway Kurds. Fighting in Iraq could spark a wider conflict because Turkey, Iran and Syria also oppose an independent Kurdish state in their midst. The U.S. has traditionally sought to preserve Iraq as a unified nation. If that is to happen, Washington needs to broker a deal between the Kurds and Iraq's government. One bargaining chip: Iraq's government could give the Kurds a bigger cut of the revenue generated by oil fields on Kurdish territory. Islamic State now joins al-Qaida as a once-vaunted, now-shrunken foe. But ... In 2011, we cautiously celebrated the demise if not death of al-Qaida. A team of Navy SEALs had dispatched al-Qaida mastermind Osama bin Laden, and an American drone attack killed his operations chief. The terror group never recovered. Today, as Islamic State reels, the U.S. and its allies face a more fragmented threat, a cast of terrorist converts still pledging allegiance to the caliphate that isn't, still plotting one-off attacks with cars, trucks or knives against civilians. Then, as now, killing terrorist leaders wherever they plot is vital. But eradicating the nihilistic, blood-drenched creed that helps terrorists recruit followers is an equally critical mission that, unlike the combat that is evicting Islamic State, never ends. Advertisement Join the discussion on Twitter @Trib_Ed_Board and on Facebook. Check out DIY and math rock, sentimental lyricism and musical duos this week. Friday, Oct. 20 Advertisement Ratboys The Empty Bottle Advertisement 1035 N. Western Ave. 773-276-3600 Ratboys is a local duo on a mission devoted to promoting good times and even better memories. With the release of its second full-length album "GN" earlier this year, these two Chicago musicians (Julia Steiner and David Sagan) cemented themselves as some of the best songsmiths of the DIY scene. Italian Math rock three-piece DAGS! and Jodi, the solo project of Nick Levine (formerly of emo-folk band Pinegrove) will join Ratboys. $10. 9 p.m., 21+. Tickets: emptybottle.com Saturday, Oct. 21 La Femme Bottom Lounge 1375 W. Lake St. 312-666-6775 What began as a modest partnership between Marlon Magnee and Sacha Got in Biarritz, France has grown into an alluring psychedelic group comprised of nine adroit musicians. The beguiling psychedelia of these polyphonic Parisians has percolated through France's music scene since their debut album in 2013. Now, with the 2016 release of a second album, "Mystere," the group's impression continues to be felt across the Atlantic. La Femme's captivating sound has been characterized as mysterious, hypnotic and mesmerizing, which puts no doubt in the group's ability to deliver a show to remember. $18. 7 p.m., 17+. Tickets: bottomlounge.com Sunday, Oct. 22 Advertisement Cults, Cullen Omori Lincoln Hall 2424 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-525-2501 Besides a one-off single in 2014, Manhattan indie duo Cults has stayed quite dormant for the past four years since the release of its second album "Static." It's time to rejoice, as the duovocalist Madeline Follin and multi-instrumentalist Brian Oblivionhas returned with the release of its third LP, titled "Offering," which was released earlier this month. The duo stops by Lincoln Hall with the support of local musician and ex-Smith Westerns frontman Cullen Omori, who released his debut solo album "New Misery" last year. $20-$22. 8 p.m., 21+. Tickets: lh-st.com Julien Baker Thalia Hall Advertisement 1807 S. Allport St. 312-526-3851 Eat. Watch. Do. Weekly What to eat. What to watch. What you need to live your best life ... now. > At just 22 years old, Tennessee songwriter Julien Baker has found herself at the center of near unanimous ovation for her sparse but effective compositions, and for lyrics that confront somber themes. Much of Baker's inspired lyricism comes from her struggles with addiction and her experiences as a queer woman and devout Christian. The occasional juxtaposition of these themes, along with her youth, often lead to some of the most sentimental and affecting songs out today. Baker follows up her sterling debut, "Sprained Ankle," with the release of her second album, "Turn Out the Lights," later this month. $18-$26. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: thaliahallchicago.com Wednesday, Oct. 25 Girlpool Logan Square Auditorium 2539 N. Kedzie Blvd. 773-252-6179 Advertisement When two friends, Harmony Tividad and Cleo Tucker, decided to move cross-country from LA to Philly and embed themselves in the latter's DIY scene, life would never be the same for them or the indie landscape as a whole. With the release of their debut album "Before the World Was Big" in 2015, the two accumulated support from music blogs and hipsters en masse because of their pastoral intensity and socially conscious lyrics. Their second album "Powerplant," released in May of this year, saw the duo adding percussion and broader influences to their sound, but their ingenuity and authenticity was not lost in their evolution. The future only looks brighter and brighter for these two. $16. 6:30 p.m., 21+. Tickets: emptybottle.com Efrain Dorado is a RedEye freelancer. [ Looking for more to do in Chicago? ] Author Dave Eggers recently visited the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, where officials have created an exhibit focused around his 2013 dystopian novel The Circle. (Karen Ann Cullotta/Pioneer Press ) For residents who checked out the latest public exhibit at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, they recently were treated to a surprise guest the best-selling author, whose novel "The Circle" is the focus of the exhibit. Author Dave Eggers, a former resident of Lake Forest, saw the interactive exhibit at the Arlington Heights library on Oct. 12 and also met with local readers for a discussion called "An Evening with Author Dave Eggers" at the Forest View Educational Center in the village. Advertisement Registration for the discussion filled up within days, forcing the library to host it at the center to accommodate the 350 participants, library officials said. "This is a most elaborate display, and it's really beautifully done," Eggers said. Advertisement The exhibit, which is on display near the library's Marketplace through Nov. 5, was created to reflect the theme of Eggers' 2013 dystopian novel "The Circle," which is the Arlington Heights library's 2017 community read for its "One Book, One Village" program. During his afternoon visit to the library Oct. 12, Eggers viewed the exhibit, which features a collection of digital tablets urging visitors to share their thoughts on how technology has either improved or impaired their lives. Taking a seat at a table littered with art supplies in the library's teen headquarters, Eggers said he enjoys talking to readers during local events. He made his literary debut in 2000 with the best selling memoir and 2001 Pulitzer finalist, "A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius." "These one book, community and college read programs have saved the publishing industry," Eggers said. "They've not only re-invigorated the industry, but they're bringing people together in a hyper-polarizing time in our history." Recalling his recent flight to Chicago, Eggers said he sat between two passengers, one of whom was watching FOX News while the other was watching MSNBC. "Both news outlets were talking about a recent press conference, but they had two very different versions of the same news," Eggers said. "When everyone is reading the same book, we can gather people in the community around one table, and bring them together in a unique way." While Eggers' novel "The Circle" depicts the potential dangers of today's technology being used for nefarious purposes that trample on privacy rights, the book was not intended to be an "anti-technology screed," he said. Advertisement On the contrary, Eggers said, he wanted to reflect accurately the lives and challenges facing the legions of "bright, idealistic people," including many he calls his friends, who work at Google and other major tech companies near his San Francisco home. "There's this blind faith in data today, and this zombie-like movement to follow data above everything else," Eggers said. "The fact that we're ceding a lot of our decision making today to machines and algorithms is a great tragedy." But unlike how technology is portrayed in "The Circle," Eggers said he remains optimistic that technology and social media can be used in a responsible, positive manner. "I have so much hope in all of these idealistic people who work in the industry and who have such great potential," he said. Eggers also noted how the work that he is most proud of is his nonprofit called 826 National. Founded in 2002 by Eggers and educator Ninive Calegari as 826 Valencia, the organization has launched a network of creative writing and tutoring centers that began in San Francisco before expanding to seven cities across the U.S., including Chicago. Advertisement But he said "there is no greater honor" than the chance to hear firsthand from local readers during events like the one organized recently by the Arlington Heights library. "The fact that a community is coming together to discuss one of my book's that they've read ... it's very moving to me," Eggers said. kcullotta@tribpub.com Twitter @kcullotta Students at Prospect High School are among the first teens in the U.S. to participate in a world religions studies class created by professor and scholar Diane Moore, right, and others with the Harvard Divinity School. (Karen Ann Cullotta / Pioneer Press ) When a visiting scholar from the Harvard Divinity School recently delivered a lesson to a classroom of Prospect High School students, the teens were not intimidated to share their opinions with an Ivy League educator. "It's important with religious diversity that you can't judge and take away someone's rights just because that's not the way you think," said Prospect senior Susannah Evett, 17, expressing her reaction to a case study presented by Diane Moore, a religious studies professor and scholar at Harvard. Advertisement Moore, who has been working with Prospect teacher John Camardella to pilot new resources developed by the Religious Literacy Project at Harvard Divinity School for teaching religion in class, thought Evett's takeaway was spot on. "My heart sings when I hear that," Moore replied. Advertisement Prospect is among a handful of schools in the country to pilot the new resources, which are aligned with the National Council for the Social Studies supplement on Religious Literacy. The supplement is based upon the American Academy of Religion Guidelines, which were published in 2010 and have been used by many schools as a resource. While Camardella has taught a world religion class at Prospect since 2009, his students this fall started the pilot program that introduces them to the cultural studies method of teaching religion. The Religious Literacy Project is promoting the pilot, which featured a visit from Moore earlier this month. Camardella said he was inspired to teach the world religion class at Prospect after attending a global religious studies conference in Bali, where he had the opportunity to meet the Archbishop Desmond Tutu. "I came back from that experience which was a pivotal moment in my personal and professional life determined to do a better job exposing my students to the complex nuances embedded in religion," Camardella said. After Camardella spent three years writing and revising the curriculum for the class, officials with Township High School District 214 approved his proposal, and his first world religion class began in 2009. Eight years later, the popular course has expanded to five sections each day, attracting interest from many Prospect seniors, students said. "His class has always been seen as the class to take your senior year," said Alyssa Cacini, 17, one of Camardella's students. "He has a way of teaching that includes these great discussions that are really powerful. I've learned that religion brings up so many issues, and it's very interesting." Student Tyler Perkins, 17, said the class has equipped him with the tools to learn and think about the diversity of religion, and the way religion influences people. Advertisement "It's also reminded me of how different people can be, but we are all similar in the way we are influenced by our belief in God," Perkins said. While the U.S. Constitution prohibits teacher-led devotional expression of religion in public schools, Moore said the new religious studies resources are designed to represent the academic study of religion, which the Constitution supports. "You can't elevate one belief over another, and you can't elevate a belief over a non-belief," Moore explained. "But we're teaching kids to live in an informed democracy, and these very important issues deserve discussion in a very respectful and critical way." kcullotta@tribpub.com Twitter @kcullotta The North Aurora Road underpass at the Canadian National Railroad tracks is a bottleneck for traffic between Aurora and Naperville. (Steve Lord / The Beacon-News) Aurora is looking at completing its part of the second phase engineering for the North Aurora Road widening project, which eventually is expected to cost about $30 million. The project, most of which is in the city of Naperville, would widen North Aurora Road from about Pennsbury Drive in Aurora to near Naperville's entrance to the Route 59 commuter train station. It would include five lanes under the Canadian National Railroad tracks. In addition to roadway, the project would include a multi-use path. Advertisement The area is the last section of two-lane traffic along North Aurora, as well as Indian Trail, which North Aurora runs into in Aurora, and Ogden Avenue, which it runs into in Naperville. It has become a sort of traffic bottleneck along the thoroughfare which runs through both cities. Aldermen meeting as a Committee of the Whole this week will consider a resolution authorizing use of motor fuel tax funds to pay Aurora's part of the engineering. Aurora, Naperville and Naperville Township already have agreed to in an intergovernmental agreement. Advertisement The Finance Committee already has recommended the expenditure. Aurora has budgeted $400,000 in 2017 and $310,000 in 2018 - for a total of $710,000 - to put toward the engineering. The widening project actually goes back to 2006 when the three governmental agencies first agreed to do it. The first phase of engineering was approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation in 2016. Robert Greene, city traffic engineer, recently told aldermen on the Finance Committee that the cities currently are acquiring right-of-way. They want to finish the acquisition, as well as the engineering design, so the project is ready to bid. That would make it ready for the governmental entities to start looking for money for the project. Naperville, which would pay the main cost, has already applied for grants. The entire project is expected to cost about $30 million. Greene said Aurora would likely pay for about $3 million of that. Greene said because the funding is uncertain still, the schedule for the project "is kind of unknown at this point." But officials have said it certainly would not start before 2020. "This is a difficult project, in that it has been around since 2006, and because the size and scope is so large, it has bumped up against funding," said Ald. Robert O'Connor, at large, Finance Committee chairman. "But it anyone has driven through there, you know it has to be done." Advertisement slord@tribpub.com Batavia aldermen narrowly voted Monday to send a plan to put apartments in the historic Campana Building back to committee for more review. (Mario Petitti / Chicago Tribune) Batavia aldermen narrowly voted Monday to send a plan to put apartments in the historic Campana Building back to committee for more review. Evergreen Real Estate Group has submitted a zoning application with Batavia to renovate the former Campana factory for a mixed use, mixed-income development with 80 market-rate and income-restricted apartments. Advertisement The facility currently has business tenants in the original building and in the north addition. The 131,000-square-foot building located on the border of Geneva and Batavia has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976 and received a local historic landmark designation in 2003. Advertisement The Batavia City Council Monday night voted 7 to 6 to postpone the decision because they wanted more answers to their questions. Voting in favor of tabling the issue were Aldermen Elliot Meitzler, Mark Uher, Michael Russotto, Dan Chanzit, Robert Salvati, Michael O'Brien and Martin Callahan. Voting the other way were Tony Malay, Drew McFadden, David Brown, Lucy Thelin Atac, Susan Stark and Alan Wolff. Ald. Nick Cerone was absent. They decided to discuss it Oct. 30 as Committee of the Whole. It is scheduled to return to the City Council for consideration Nov. 6. The Batavia City Council Committee of the Whole last week voted 9-to-5 to recommend the proposal to the full City Council. Ald. Callahan said he was bothered by having to review modifications given to him so close to the vote. Some of the issues have come down to safety in the intersection of Route 31 and Fabyan Parkway and the lack of sidewalks along Fabyan Parkway. "I spent my weekend talking with people about what the questions are, not people trying to change my mind," he said. He said some of the questions are a result of last week's compromise. Advertisement One modification requires the developer to put up $50,000 in escrow for a sidewalk along Fabyan Parkway to Allen Drive, which is twice as much as originally discussed. Both Kane County and Geneva Township would have to approve any sidewalk improvements. "Is it an arbitrary number or is it based in fact? We should be looking at these issues based on fact," Callahan said. Callahan said he would have liked to have had representatives from the Illinois Department of Transportation or Kane County Department of Transportation in on the discussions about the volume of traffic in the Route 31 and Fabyan Parkway intersection. Opponents have raised a variety of concerns, such as the suitability of a former factory being converted into residential units and the traffic it would generate at the Fabyan Parkway and Route 31 intersection. Preservation advocates have praised the project, while others have endorsed the concept because it would fill a need for low-income housing in the area. Chanzit suggested they delay the vote even though "in the heart of their deliberations" they did take a serious look at 22 different issues and stuck a pin in 8 of them. Advertisement "With those eight items, we did a good job of debating the issues," Chanzit said. However, Chanzit said he didn't feel comfortable delivering a yes vote Monday night with only eight aldermen on board given the number of phone calls and emails. He characterized some as being "harassing." "I have to shop at Target, stop at stop signs and see my neighbors. I would like to look them in the eye and say I voted yes because I feel I answered all of the questions I feel that I needed to be answered. There are some questions that need answers," Chanzit said. Chanzit also noted the city has approved projects without all of the financing in place. He said he would like for the cities of Batavia and Geneva to discuss reaching a solution to the safety-related issues in the Route 31 and Fabyan Parkway intersection. He said three of the most dangerous intersections in Kane County are in Ward 3, which he represents. "This is by far the most terrifying one to me. If we allow ourselves to ignore this intersection and approve this project and don't come back to address this issue we have made a monstrous mistake," Chanzit said. Advertisement Batavia Mayor Jeff Schielke said he's had discussions with Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns and transportation agencies. He said one of the problems with making intersection improvements is that straightening out the intersection would require going into the Fox River beneath the Fabyan Parkway Bridge. "Now we're into a multi-million dollar project. We will try our best to encourage Illinois and the county to come up with a solution," Schielke said. Salvati said he, too, is worried about approving a project knowing the intersection is already prone to accidents. He also questioned whether there would be a potential negative impact on the area's property values. Salvati said aldermen recently received a privately funded market study that raises those questions. "Our staff has pointed out faults in (the study). But the fact is there isn't another market survey out there that says it would increase values. So now I am left hanging," Salvati said. Malay said he's not aware of "any long-standing questions that haven't been answered. It seems like we get answers and then new ones come up as a strategy." Advertisement Malay said aldermen came up with "good compromises." He said everyone realizes the intersection "is a problem" and "will continue to be unless it gets addressed," he said. "I don't think we should wait for an intersection to get addressed," he said. Evergreen development director David Block said he can "appreciate" the desire for more information, but believes enough time has passed. "This has been a challenging community conversation. We support the community conversation but now has come the time to address these questions, finish the conversation and come to a vote," Block said. Block said the Kane County Department of Transportation has raised questions and their traffic consultants have responded. "It's a little bit ingenuous to say that KDOT has not been part of the conversation because they have," Block said. Advertisement Although the Illinois Department of Transportation has not formally responded to the proposal, they have acknowledged there are issues, he said. "They have indicated it is a problematic intersection," he said, adding the agency has indicated there are some funds for future intersection improvements. He said Evergreen has done all it can to address the issues. Block also said the developer has been in touch with agencies that must sign off on the proposal because of the historic status of the building, and he expects approval from the National Park Service in a few weeks. Block said the Illinois Housing Development Authority has approved the developer's largest component of funding which is approximately $3.6 million. However there is a secondary component that is in the approval process. "The opponents of the project who claim we don't have all of our financing in place fundamentally don't understand how this process works in terms of financing and closing on these developments," Block said. Advertisement Linda Girardi is a freelance reporter for the Beacon-News. A 31-year-old Cicero women is in custody in connection with a Sunday morning retention pond crash that left her son in critical condition, police said Monday. The six-year-old boy, who was in the water for at least a half hour before his rescue, continues to receive treatment at a Chicago hospital, police said. Advertisement Police said they think alcohol use is a factor in the crash, which involved an SUV driven by the boy's mother. The vehicle went into a retention pond on the south side of the intersection of Diehl Road and I-88 in the DuPage County part of Aurora. Police responded to the crash about 2:40 a.m. Sunday, finding a 2007 Nissan Xterra fully submerged in the pond. Advertisement Two women and two girls who had been in the SUV made it out of the sinking car and to shore: The driver, her 15-year-old and 12-year-old daughters, and her 21-year-old sister. About 3:03 a.m., the SUV and its youngest occupant, the boy, were found about 80 feet from shore in about 15 feet of water, police said. Police said the driver told them all five were on their way back home to Cicero from a party in Aurora. When the driver got off I-88 and turned left onto westbound Diehl Road, she lost control of the SUV, veering off the roadway and into the pond, according to police. A surface swimmer from the Aurora Fire Department immediately went to help find the car and boy, then two divers from the water rescue team began searching underwater, police said. The boy was rushed to an Aurora hospital in critical condition. He was later moved to a Chicago hospital, where he remains, police said. Police said charges are pending through the DuPage County State's Attorney's office. Traffic investigators from the Aurora Police Department are leading the investigation. hleone@tribpub.com Twitter @hannahmleone Marist High School students raised more than $6,000 for the Marist Brothers schools and ministries in Puerto Rico and the St. Bernard Project, a non-profit that works in areas devastated by natural disasters. The schools service club, Marist Youth, sponsored Hurricane Relief Week Oct. 2 through 6. Homerooms collected donations each morning. At lunch there was an ice cream sundae sale and Marist t-shirts from previous events were sold with profits going to the cause. The homerooms competed to raise the most money. Pictured is teacher Natalie Holder, right, and her homeroom class that raised the most money. (Marist High School photo) Alsip The Lighthouse Church: 4501 W. 127th St. Pastor Dan Willis and Linda Willis will be honored for 40 years of service at a Founders Day Weekend celebration. A free Gospel Extravaganza will be at 7 p.m. Nov. 10. The Brown Sisters, Janet Sutton and Voices of Acme, Pastor Daniel Smith and New St. Matthew Choir, the Pentecostals of Chicago Reunion choir and other guests will be featured. Throwback attire from 40 years ago is encouraged for the 5 p.m. Nov. 11 services. The celebration will continue at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. services Nov. 12. Reservations are required at reneemblissett@yahoo.com. Advertisement Chicago St. Casimir Center Chapel: 2601 W. Marquette Road An All Souls' Remembrance Service and Mass for the beatification of Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas will be at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 4. Names of the deceased will be read at 8:45 a.m. Submit names of deceased to Daina Cyvas, 2601 W. Marquette Road, Chicago. Photos of the deceased will be displayed. Refreshments will follow the service. The public is invited. Information: 773-349-8064. Advertisement Chicago Heights St. Paul Lutheran Church: 10th Street and Ashland Avenue The Sunday School will sponsor Trunks of Treats and a car show from noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 29. The event will take place rain or shine and will include food, treats for children and a bake sale. Information: 708-754-4493 or spchurchoffice@yahoo.com. Hazel Crest Hazel Crest Assembly Church: 17801 S. Cicero Ave. The annual Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner will be from noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 18. Families experiencing difficult times are invited. Homewood First Presbyterian Church of Homewood: 17929 Gottschalk Ave. A Whole Church Work Day will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 21. Work will be indoors and outdoors for all ages. A fall-themed Bake Sale sponsored by the Women's Association will follow the 10:30 a.m. service Oct. 22 in Westminster Hall. A special service to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation will be Oct. 29. "Trick or Treat" will be during afternoon hours Oct. 31 on the front porch of the church. Information: www.fpchw.org or 708-798-0490. New Lenox St. Jude Church: 241 W. Second Ave. The St. Jude New Lenox Peace & Social Justice Ministry will host Social Justice Day: A Call to Care and Compassion, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 21 at Providence Catholic High School, 1800 W. Lincoln Highway, New Lenox, Door 1. Guest speakers will discuss immigration, human trafficking, refugees and the environment. A freewill offering for admission is suggested. Registration at www.stjudes.org/justice or call Pam at 815-463-1696. Advertisement The Council of Catholic Women Harvest Luncheon & Craft Show will take place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 26. Crafters wanted. Call Pat at 815-485-3511. Oak Forest Lutheran Church of the Resurrection: 15050 Central Ave. A Reformation Festival Service to celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation will be at 11 a.m. Oct. 29. The community worship service will be on the lawn at 151st St. and Central Ave. A silent auction, live music, German potluck and children's activities will follow the service. Information: call 708-687-2170 or contact resurrectionoakforest@gmail.com. Oak Lawn First United Methodist Church of Oak Lawn: 100th St. and Central Ave. A Pumpkin Patch and fall activities are open to the public from 10 a.m. to dusk weekdays and from noon to dusk Sundays to Oct. 31. Activities include tractor rides, straw toss, games, gifts and goodies. Admission is free. There are fees for some activities. A Craft Vendor Fair will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 21 in the Fellowship Hall. A Trunk or Treat will be from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 29. Proceeds support programs and missions of the church. Information: 708-423-1170. Trinity Lutheran Church: 9700 S. Brandt. St. Martin Luther's German Service in German and English will be at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 21 and at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Oct. 22. A Reformation Service will be at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 28. The 500th Anniversary of the Reformation service will be at 10 a.m. Oct. 29. There will be no praise service. Advertisement Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > Orland Park Christ Lutheran Church: 14700 S. 94th Ave. Services to celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation will be at 5 p.m. Oct. 28 and at 8.00 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Oct. 29. Assisting Pastor Dan Gensch will speak and show pictures of his recent trip to "Luther Land." The Presbyterian Church in Orland Park: 13401 Wolf Road A free Halloween Party for children ages three to 11 years old will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 22. There will be a Halloween-themed lunch, games, crafts and a Nature's Creatures live animal show. Costumes are encouraged. No masks, weapons or costumes that limit movement. Registration is required. Call or contact Cindy at 708-448-8142 or cindypcop@comcast.net. Tinley Park Zion Lutheran Church: 17100 69th Ave. A free community dinner will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. every first Thursday of the month at Zion Lutheran Church and from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. every third Thursday of the month at Faith United Presbyterian Church, 6200 167th St., Tinley Park. The public is invited. Staff report Advertisement What's going on at your church? Let us know at least a week in advance by sending an email to southtownreligion@tribpub .com. Lockport Township High School officials are seeking community input on whether to drop the traditional class ranking system. (Susan DeMar Lafferty/Daily Southtown ) Lockport Township High School may follow a growing trend among schools nationwide and abolish its class ranking system that many officials say puts too much pressure on students. "It's a very complicated issue," said Brett Gould, LTHS assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. Advertisement And that's why school district officials are taking their time to research the issue before they drop the ages old tradition of recognizing valedictorians and salutatorians. A "grading committee" of administrators, counselors and parents, has surveyed other school districts in Illinois regarding their processes, surveyed colleges and universities as to the effect on enrollment and scholarship awards, and discussed research articles on the pros and cons of eliminating ranking and determining valedictorian and salutatorian status, according to its website lths.org. Advertisement It also invited input from parents and the community via an online survey on its lths.org website, under the "Let's Talk" link. Response has "not been overwhelming" yet, but the survey will be available through November, Gould said. Counselors and department chairs have all supported the switch to the collegiate recognition program, which acknowledges more students Cum Laude (a Grade Point Average of 3.5- 3.75), Magna Cum Laude (GPA 3.76- 3.99), and Summa Cum Laude (GPA 4.0 and above) If approved by the board of education, the new system would begin with the Class of 2022 the incoming freshmen in the fall of 2018, Gould said. Lockport is one of the schools in the area still using the class rank system, which has been abandoned by its neighboring schools including Lincoln-Way High School District 210, Joliet Township High School District 204, Consolidated High School District 230, Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202, Homewood-Flossmoor High School District 233, and Marian Catholic High School, officials said. Crete-Monee District 201-U will phase it out with the class of 2020 and Bremen High School District 230 continues the tradition for now but also is exploring use of the cum laude system, officials there said. Plainfield dropped its "vals and sals" in 1993 because the recognition all came down to a "mathematical formula and the weighted grading system" that allowed for an "inaccurate and unfair playing field," said Tom Hernandez, Plainfield's community relations director. Most colleges no longer seek out these top students, "so, really, it serves no purpose," he said. Advertisement According to school officials, students would select their classes solely based on how many points it would add to their Grade Point Average, rather than on their personal interests or career plans. Advanced Placement and honors classes are worth more points. The weighted point system is "an impediment" to taking other courses," Gould said. While it has been a "tradition" to recognize the top two, "we really want students to take classes based on their interests and future careers, not for honors, or weight," he said. As Lockport officials discuss class rank, it also opens up a whole discussion on weighted classes, since eliminating class rank minimizes the weight, he said. "We have so many rigorous courses that are not weighted," he said, citing dual credit courses, which give students both high school and college credit. Advertisement The district has not kept up to date, as it added new courses, making the current weighted system inequitable, Gould said. The grading committee also has been charged with looking at policies and practices to make sure grades promote learning, accurately reflect what students are learning, and are fairly weighted, he said. Schools have found other creative ways to acknowledge their students. Homer Junior High, the largest feeder school into Lockport Township High School, abolished its valedictorian/salutatorian system with its class of 2016, Principal Troy Mitchell said. Instead, they had a contest, in which students presented a speech to an objective panel, and were selected on content and delivery. The top two gave the graduation speeches and two others announced the awards, Mitchell said. The school's goal is to get more students involved in their graduation ceremony, he said. Advertisement Even though the junior high does not have a weighted grading system, teachers felt that students "were more concerned about getting an A and not about what they were learning," or the top two did not want to give a speech, he said. Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > As Crete-Monee High School phases out its ranking system, it began last year to adopt the collegiate honors system by recognizing students at graduation by summa, magna, and cum laude, while maintaining the valedictorian/salutatorian, said district spokeswoman Natalie Nash. Some districts only list class rank on report cards or transcripts, but no longer publicly announce the top two. Others recognized students by percentiles the top 1, 5 and 10 percent at graduation. For Plainfield High School students, if a college requests class rank, it can still be calculated and included on transcripts, Hernandez said. Each of Plainfield's four high schools recognize academic achievement by recognizing all students with GPAs above 5.0 (on a 5 point scale), Hernandez said. Some also recognize National Merit Scholars, students going into the military, or students with perfect ACT scores, he said. Advertisement slafferty@tribpub.com Twitter @SusanLaff Steve Lange, 61, of Orland Park, stands at a microphone to spell a word Sunday during the 39th Annual Orland Park Open Spelling Bee. ( Nick Swedberg/Daily Southtown ) A poet might think it fitting that a champion of a spelling bee would win with the word "approbation," which means approval or praise. Appropriately, Steve Lange, a 61-year-old pastor from Orland Park, received heaps of approbation after he won the 39th Annual Orland Park Open Spelling Bee on Sunday at the Presbyterian Church of Orland Park. Advertisement The win is a first for Lange, who is pastor of the Living Word Church in Orland Park and has competed in the long-running event in years past. His talent for spelling dates back to his younger days. "My parents were both English teachers, and they were both hot on grammar. I kind of stunk at grammar, but I was better at spelling," he said. Advertisement The bee, which is co-hosted by the Village of Orland Park, brings together the young and the not-as-young in spelling competition. Village officials serve as contest judges. This year, trustees Kathy Fenton and Carole Griffin Ruzich volunteered to be judges. Winners are based on age groups, with 12 trophies and 23 medals given out. Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > Enzo Restivo, a 10-year-old from Palos Heights, won among the youngest contestants, in the 8- to 10-year-old age range. This was Restivo's second spelling bee win. The competition starts with the youngest children and words that are easiest to spell. After several rounds with increasingly tougher words, older children and adults join the competition. James Tan, 13, of Orland Park, was the victor for his age category, which includes student from local middle and high schools. The eighth-grader from Palos South Middle School has competed in bees since the fifth grade. He said he enjoys the competition. "I guess I like to go because I'm good at spelling," James said. The spirit of the competition was inspired decades ago from "Little House on the Prairie," said the bee's longtime spellmaster, William Smith. It originated in Oak Lawn during the village's bicentennial. Now, dozens of residents throughout the area participate in the competition. "And it's been working ever since," Smith said. More than 100 bees have been held in all that time. Advertisement Nick Swedberg is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown. Kernel Sweetooth will be closing its Frankfort location next week. (Bob Bong/Daily Southtown ) Kernel Sweetooth, a snack and sweets shop, has announced that it will be closing its Frankfort location later this month after being in business there for 10 years. The shop at 11 S. White St. in the Trolley Barn building will close on Tuesday. A second Kernel Sweetooth location at 17258 S. Oak Park Ave. in Tinley Park will remain open. Advertisement Attempts to reach the owners were not successful, but the shop posted a notice Oct. 10 on its Facebook page that its lease was not being renewed. Owners Gary and Debbie Kovarik said they were looking for a new rental space in downtown Frankfort and hoped to reopen. The stores are known for their gourmet popcorn in eight flavors, hand-dipped ice cream, Hawaiian shaved ice, homemade chocolates, gourmet caramel apples, candy and other sweet treats. Advertisement The shops are open seven days a week. Fall/winter hours are from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For information, call the Tinley store at 708-444-7677. New eateries open at Chicago Ridge Mall Three new food shops have opened at Chicago Ridge Mall. Cinnabon's, a pastry shop specializing in cinnamon rolls, has returned to the shopping center at 95th Street and Ridgeland Avenue in Chicago Ridge. Other treats include cupcakes. Also now open is Doc Popcorn, which features fresh-popped kettle corn and offers free samples daily. The snack can be salty or sweet and can be purchased in refillable tins. Joining Doc Popcorn is Dippin' Dots, an ice cream shop that features tiny beads of ice cream, yogurt, sherbet and flavored ice products. Doc Popcorn and Dippin' Dots are located in the mall's center court. Advertisement New hotel opens in Joliet Home 2 Suites by Hilton is now open at 4095 Hennepin Drive in Joliet. The extended stay hotel is located off Interstate 55 next to the Louis Joliet Mall. It has 115 studio and one-bedroom suites. All of the rooms are suites and all have movable furniture and plenty of storage and desk space. Each suit also has a full kitchen with a dishwasher, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, cookware, plates, cups and utensils. There is free Wi-Fi and a 42-inch HDTV. Pets are welcome. The hotel offers a free breakfast of artisan-style sandwiches, cereals, fruit, baked goods and other items. There is a convenience store open 24 hours, a heated indoor pool, and patio with a firepit. Guests can enjoy the Oasis lounge or get in a workout while doing laundry at the Spin2Cycle fitness/laundry facility. Advertisement Magnolia Design grand opening in Orland Park Magnolia Design & Consign sells new and used furniture, quality accessories and decor at 15445 S. 94th Avenue in Orland Park. The store sells new goods or offers people the chance to sell unwanted items on consignment. It bills itself as an alternative to estate sales, garage sales and Craig's List. The store opened in September, but it staged its grand opening ribbon cutting Tuesday. Hours and information are at at 708-789-7190. Marco's Pizza coming to Oak Lawn Advertisement Marco's Pizza is now hiring for its new location coming to 10912 S. Cicero Ave. in Oak Lawn's Stony Creek Promenade North shopping center. It's the former Pie Five location. The franchised pizzeria offers pizzas, salads, subs and cheesy bread. It will offer delivery and carryout service. An opening is planned for later this month or early in November. The company was founded by Italian immigrant Pasquale Giammarco in 1978 in Oregon, Ohio. It now has more than 800 locations in more than 30 states, Puerto Rico, India and the Bahamas. It will be the second Marco's Pizza in the south suburbs. A store opened earlier at 2010 183rd St. in Homewood. Willow Springs Ace Hardware survives Things are back to normal at Willow Springs Ace Hardware after the store survived a scare when a couple of cars collided in front of the business and the carnage spilled over onto the property. Advertisement The cars collided about 3:20 a.m. Sept. 11 in front of the store at 8436 S. Archer Ave. in Willow Springs, said manager Jeff Hodina. "One of the cars hit our propane rack, then hit a skid of dirt and finally hit a pillar," Hodina said. "The guy took off." Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > Hodina said the damage could have been much worse. "The propane tanks he hit were all empty, if they had been full, who knows what might have happened." Repairs have been made and the store is back in business though things are changing at the longtime hardware store, which has been operating in the same building since 1951. Hodina said the shop was getting out of the hardware business and is liquidating its inventory. "We're downsizing to about half the space we have now," he said. "We'll concentrate on small engine repair and screen and window repairs." Advertisement He said the owner, his mom Jenny, was thinking of renting out the other half of the space. More information is at 708-839-1040. Bob Bong is a freelancer. Gov. Bruce Rauner's campaign fund recently transferred $4.45 million to the Illinois Republican Party to bankroll a new effort to focus voters' attention on House Speaker Michael Madigan. The state party unveiled its "2018 Madigan Retirement Plan," which it claimed was designed to "specifically target members of the Illinois House and Senate who empower their political boss, Mike Madigan." The party said the governor's money would supply "unprecedented support to local GOP organizations by providing innovative grassroots tools, enhanced digital and data integration, and targeted support for local Republican candidates in an effort to defeat Democrats at every level who empower their party leader, Mike Madigan." Advertisement A few things are going on here. First, "Blame Madigan" has been Rauner's main theme song since the 2014 campaign. This is a continuation of that effort. It has worked in the past, so they're betting it'll work again. Second, talking about Madigan means he can deflect attention from his own problems. Advertisement And that brings us to the third reason. The governor is being criticized loudly and harshly by members of his own party for signing HB40 into law, which legalized taxpayer-funded abortions. Shoveling some cash out the door, or at the very least holding the cash out there as a potential carrot, might help calm some tempers. Running it through the state party means there are no direct Rauner fingerprints on the money, so accepting it gives Republican candidates and organizations some deniability. Not much, but some. They can just say the new cash in their accounts is all about defeating that bad ol' Madigan. The governor's campaign operation long ago successfully injected the "Madigan Question" into just about every significant political race. Pretty much all Democratic candidates and incumbents are now asked how they plan to remain independent of the House speaker, or if they support term limiting him out of office. And they are asked that question just about everywhere they go. It's inescapable, and botching the answer can have serious consequences. But a new candidate question has emerged since Rauner signed HB40. Republicans are now being asked whether they're supporting Rauner's reelection. When Christian County Republican Party Chairman Seth McMillan recently announced he would run against Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill), he was asked where he stood on the intra-party schism. According to the Decatur Herald & Review, McMillan said he would support whoever won the primary and stated, "Right now, I support the governor's re-election." OK, so he's with the governor, which is good news for Rauner, but those questions wouldn't even have been asked before the HB40 explosion. Rep. Dan Brady (R-Bloomington) was asked during a local radio talk show last week whether he was endorsing Rauner's reelection. "Asking me, 'Would I still support the governor?' I'd have to know who's running," Brady said, later clarifying that the governor hadn't yet asked for his endorsement. As the numerous Republican legislative primaries start heating up between incumbents and others supported by the establishment and those backed by conservative activist Dan Proft and his cohorts the Rauner questions will naturally become more frequent. Advertisement Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > And if Rauner winds up facing state Rep. Jeanne Ives (R-Wheaton) or somebody else in the Republican primary, questions about where folks stand will be everywhere, constant and inescapable. And that means some Republicans are going to be put into a trick bag. Most Republicans with far-right primary opponents can't embrace the governor, for obvious reasons. And if they embrace Rauner's primary opponent they could risk losing out on the so-called "Retire Madigan" money. Attempting to remain neutral comes with its own likely risks. The Democrats barely used Rauner as an issue in targeted legislative races last year. But that likely won't be repeated next year as Rauner's polling numbers continue to slide ever downward. As I've told you before, once it became clear to the Democrats that there could be no budget deal with the governor, the plan was to drag him down to a point where he was almost as unpopular as Speaker Madigan. That would put Rauner's reelection in peril as well as harm Republican legislative incumbents and the Democrats' GOP challengers. So, Republicans will undoubtedly be put on the spot with questions next fall about whether they can remain independent of an unpopular governor with a reputation as a control freak who backs that up with a fat wallet. What goes around comes around, I suppose. Advertisement Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com. Four Leyden School District 212 high school seniors recently were singled out for their academic achievements. Three students from East Leyden Giovanni Diomede, Jake Schwartz and Amal Sharaan and one from West Leyden Marco Chaidez received letters of commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Advertisement They are among the 34,000 students nationally who received a letter of commendation from the NMSC. The students were recognized as being among the top 50,000 scorers of the more than 1.6 million students who entered the 2018 competition by taking the 2016 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship qualifying test, District 212 said in a release. Advertisement Giovanni Diomede "has been pushing himself academically since he entered high school," said his counselor Patricia Muldoon, asked to provide additional details about the student. (From left) Giovanni Diomede and Marco Chaidez. (Leyden High School District 212) "He has taken our most rigorous classes offered," Muldoon said via email. "He attests that to being one of the main reasons that he has excelled in school 'taking rigorous courses has helped me to better understand the readings and to utilize my critical thinking skills' " "As well as challenging himself academically, he has also been very active in Cub Scouts for 10 years, reaching the distinguished title of den chief since he was in seventh grade," Muldoon said. "While attending Leyden, he has participated in the scholastic bowl all four years, was [in] science Olympiad for two and volunteered his time as an ACCESS mentor for two years. His accomplishments truly make him a commended student!" Bill Mitchell , counselor for both Jake Schwartz and Amal "Emmy" Sharaan, also responding via email, noted that the designation is based on the pure PSAT score from the October 2016 test. "Both Jake and Emmy were well prepared for this rigorous academic experience, having been exposed to the rigor of honors and then AP classes across all academic subject areas," Mitchell said. "Emmy is an ACCESS (a caring community empowering student success) mentor and is involved in Tech Girls (a women in STEM club), FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), and NHS. She has lived in Rosemont since age 2, attending Rosemont School for 9 years until coming to ELHS," Michell said. "Jake is an ACCESS mentor and is involved in scholastic bowl, marching band, NHS, speech team, Principia, and Interact," Mitchell added. "He has lived in River Grove his entire life, attending River Grove School until coming to ELHS." Both are ranked within the top 10 students in their graduating class of 397 students, he noted. "They have both been absolute gems to work with, and have received many accolades, as well as the admiration of their classmates and teachers alike," he said. "They represent Leyden's absolute best and brightest." Advertisement Chaidez serves as the student representative on the board of education this year and was also West Leyden's homecoming king. Lilia Ortega, Chaidez's counselor, said he is "an exemplary young man." "Not only is he the epitome of an excellent student," Ortega said, "he is a genuine and overall a world class human being. His passion for serving others takes precedence over his own needs. It is no surprise that he is being commended for the National Merit Scholarship. He is well deserving of this honor and more." Former Lake County Coroner Dr. Thomas Rudd during a debate on Oct. 9, 2016 at the Park Place Senior Center in Waukegan. (Mark Kodiak Ukena / News-Sun) The trial of former Lake County Coroner Dr. Thomas Rudd on perjury charges, scheduled to begin next Monday, has been pushed back to Jan. 16 due to the recent indictment of the appellate prosecutor who had been assigned the case. Circuit Judge Victoria Rossetti set the new date on a motion from the new prosecutor, Charles Zalar of the state Appellate Prosecutor's Office. Defense attorney Jed Stone said he and Rudd were in agreement with the requested postponement. Advertisement Rudd's Oct. 23 trial date took a hit when Brian Towne, a special prosecutor assigned to Rudd's case, was indicted this summer on official misconduct charges in connection with his previous job as LaSalle County state's attorney. Rudd is charged with five counts of perjury based on allegations that he signed several election petition pages for the 2016 primary without having collected the signatures himself. Rudd has said his signatures on the pages were a mistake and an unintended oversight. Advertisement In two hearings on unsuccessful motions to dismiss the case, his attorneys have argued that Rudd remedied the situation by withdrawing his Democratic petition papers when notified of a complaint concerning the signatures, and running unsuccessfully as a write-in candidate in the general election. Stone has claimed the charges were motivated by resentment among law enforcement and prosecutors about positions Rudd has taken in the past regarding high-profile criminal cases in Lake County, including the self-inflicted shooting death of Fox Lake police Lt. Charles Joseph Gliniewicz. Because Rudd was a county official when the alleged perjury occurred, Lake County State's Attorney Michael Nerheim requested that the Illinois Appellate Prosecutor's Office prosecute the case to avoid any conflicts. jrnewton@tribpub.com Twitter @jimnewton5 Champions of Magic, a British group of illusionists, comes to Genesee for its first U.S. tour. ( Champions of Magic/HANDOUT ) The British are coming. British illusionists, that is. Advertisement Five Brits form Champions of Magic and have performed worldwide but when they come to the Genesee on Thursday, it will be the first time they've been in the U.S. They don't plan to do anything differently from what they do elsewhere, said one of the performers, Alex McAleer. Advertisement "We did have that concern at first," McAleer said, but being a mind reader, he's pretty sure Americans will enjoy the magic show as much as the Brits and others have. Five illusionists will take turns trying to illicit ahs of disbelief from the audience, he said. McAleer reads people's minds. Faye Presto, who has been called Britain's greatest female magician, does tricks such as sending a bottle of wine through a table. Richard Young and Sam Strange disappear and reappear amid lights and noise. Edward Hilsum does tricks such as pulling a white dove out of a red scarf. Audience members can meet and talk to the illusionists after the show and they often get asked to participate during the show. "The show as a whole is a big production with lighting and pyrotechnics," McAleer said from England a few days before he and the crew were set to fly to the U.S. McAleer said he didn't grow up thinking magic would become his life's calling. But when he was 14 years old, he said he became fascinated by the mind, "what I was thinking and what other people were thinking. I discovered spiritualism, when people pretend to talk to spirits," he said. But he prefers, he said, "to talk to the living and not the dead." McAleer honed his skills by reading and studying body language to discover what's on people's minds. He's also watched magicians live and on screen to see what they were doing, how they were doing it and how they interacted with the audience. Advertisement One of the first things he does on stage is throw out a toy monkey and whoever catches it joins him on stage. He asks the guest to think of a word or a name from the past and he'll tell them what they're thinking. He says he nearly, if not always, gets it right, and he can tell if someone is trying to trick or confuse him. Perfecting his skills involves watching people, he said. When he comes to Waukegan, he'll be walking around the theater, trying to get the vibe of the stage and the people mingling in the hallways. The rest of the acts are visual magic, he said. "The double act our grand illusionists (Young and Strange) bring in the big boxes and pyrotechnics and lights. They make each other vanish. They're very endearing. They're two lovable idiots," McAleer said. "I have an 8-year-old, and it isn't me who's his favorite magician. It's Young and Strange." Hilsum, the fifth member, said he's been working on a trick for two years called "Silver," and he won't reveal anything more than that. Advertisement The illusionists are quite mum on the details of what the audience will see. Live magic is more exciting than watching it on television or in a film or hearing about it, McAleer said. "You have to be in the room to see these things are really happening. If you saw something like that in a film, you think 'oh that's just special effects.' If you see it live on stage, you can't deny your eyes." Some of the tricks they do have endured for hundreds of years because they continue to capture the human imagination, he said. "But it's also about the personality of the performer," he said and keeping it fresh and interesting. He said a good magician needs to be ready for anything. Sometimes people think rude things when he tries to guess what they're thinking, he said. "I have to sort of roll with it. It's a good-time family show. We're excited to be bringing it to America for the first time. This is a new, exciting adventure for us." Sheryl DeVore is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun. Advertisement Champions of Magic When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday Where: Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan Tickets: $30 Information: 847-782-2366; www.geneseetheatre.com All votes in the CO-3 election won't be counted until the end of this week news By Alexander Chipman Koty On October 18, Chinas top leadership will convene at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to begin the weeklong 19th National Party Congress of the Communist Party of China. The Congress is the most important political event in China, where the Partys top representatives meet once every five years to announce changes to top leadership positions and set out the Partys and therefore Chinas direction for the next half decade. This year, around 2,300 delegates will assemble for the Congress. The delegates consist of Party representatives from Chinas national party organs, provinces, leading municipalities, the military, and state-owned enterprises (SOEs), as well as some private sector representatives and other influential figures. The stakes for the 19th National Party Congress are high: five out of seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee (PSC) the most powerful decision-making body in China are set to retire, leaving only President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang remaining. Overall, about 70 percent of posts on the PSC, the 25-member Politburo, and the 350-member Central Committee are expected to shuffle, as well as adjustments to military positions. As a new slate of leaders take the reins of key political and economic positions, China watchers are looking closely for hints of what the 19th National Party Congress will reveal about Chinas future. Business Intelligence from Dezan Shira & Associates Leadership positions At the last Congress in 2012, the Central Committee elected Xi to the posts of General Secretary of the Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, replacing his predecessor Hu Jintao. In early 2013, Xi was named President, a position that carries a limit of two five-year terms. The 19th Party Congress should mark the halfway point of Xis term as Chinas top leader. According to convention, any politician aged 68 or older at a Congress should retire, and be replaced with a younger member. If the leadership follows convention, five members of the PSC should step down at the Congress, thereby allowing Xi to promote allies in their place. In the run up to the Congress, China watchers have engaged in extensive debate and speculation over who will be promoted to the PSB. Among the notable names to watch are Wang Qishan, Chen Miner, and Hu Chunhua. Wang Qishan is a current member of the PSC and the head of Xis anti-corruption campaign. At 69 years old, Wang should retire at the Congress, according to convention. However, many observers have speculated that the top leadership could make an exception to the retirement rule to keep Wang on the PSB, either to continue leading the anti-corruption campaign or to move to an economic post. If Wang remains on the PSC, it would be a notable break of recent precedent. The fates of Chen Miner and Hu Chunhua will be watched closely largely due to their age. Born in 1960 and 1963, respectively, Chen and Hu are the only two candidates that are young enough to serve at the Congresses in 2022 and 2027, which increases the likelihood of their promotion to the PSC. This means that the two could potentially be successors to Xi and Li. Chen is considered a close associate to Xi, and was appointed to the position of Party Secretary of Chongqing earlier this year. Hu is currently the Party Secretary of the economically vital Guangdong province, and is known to keep a low profile. Xi and Li both rose to the PSC at the 17th Congress in 2007, halfway through Hu Jintaos presidency. Xi earned the position of Vice-President, while Li earned Vice-Premier, signaling their future roles as President and Premier, respectively. Reform direction Congresses are at their core internal political events concerning the Party structure, as opposed to the annual Two Sessions meetings that lay out the coming years legislative agenda. However, speeches and press events delivered at the Congress may provide clues about Chinas macro-level policy direction, mostly notably in the Work Report to be delivered by Xi. In terms of the economy, the Work Report will likely stress the Partys success in meeting growth targets and progress towards eliminating extreme poverty and becoming a moderately prosperous society. It will likely reaffirm Chinas commitments to free trade and globalization and combating pollution and climate change. Further, it should affirm the Partys efforts to push ahead with anti-corruption and SOE reform. While any of the above statements would be unsurprising, slight changes to wording or special attention to certain issues could signal policy priorities. For example, Xi might stress the importance of his Belt and Road Initiative, which would mean further investment in the program should be expected. Some commentators have speculated that Xi will place a greater emphasis on economic reform in his second term, as he will have a stronger political base from which to work. A promotion of a close ally such as Wang to an important economic position could be a signal that Xi is looking to tackle economic reform in the coming years. Further, the track records of individuals promoted to lead different ministries and leading groups could provide clues to their respective directions. RELATED: Chinas Free Trade Agreements with South Asia Looking forward The 19th National Party Congress has great implications for Chinas future. Foreign investors will look for a commitment to economic reform and attracting foreign direct investment, as well as policy developments concerning issues such as the Made in China 2025 initiative and the war on pollution. Chinese politics is notoriously opaque, however, and reading too much into individual promotions risks missing the broader picture. For example, because Li holds a PhD in economics, when he became Premier in 2012, many observers expected greater economic reform and liberalization than has actually occurred since. Ultimately, the Congress only provides broad directions for China in terms of policy, and it will be up to Xi and the new leadership to develop and implement initiatives to steer the country on its way towards to the 20th National Party Congress in 2022. 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 You are here: Home Ten Peking Opera performers from the Tianjin Youth Peking Opera Troupe visited Mauritius and performed at the local China Cultural Center on Oct 7. Artists from the Tianjin Youth Peking Opera Troupe perform at the lecture "Beauty of Chinese Peking Opera" in Mauritius, Oct 7, 2017. [Photo/Chinaculture.org] A series of exhibitions and performances on Peking Opera and a lecture, Beauty of Chinese Peking Opera, were featured. Veteran artist Lu Song introduced the music, costumes and roles in Peking Opera during the lecture. He also demonstrated some gestures used by actors in the opera, such as mounting a horse. Three classic highlights from operas were performed after the lecture. Many in the audiences also participated in the performance and tried to learn Peking Opera. Sun Gongyi, Chinese ambassador to Mauritius, Anerood Jugnauth, former Prime Minister of Mauritius, and about 200 government officials and representatives attended the event. About Chinese Culture Talk Launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Culture, Chinese Culture Talk is a series of lectures on Chinese philosophy, religion, literature, cuisine, medicine and traditional culture-related subjects. It is sponsored by the Bureau for External Cultural Relations of the Chinese Ministry of Culture. The Ministry of Culture selects three or four groups of young and middle-aged scholars to give lectures abroad every year with Chinese embassies, consulates, China Cultural Centers or local agencies around the world planning and organizing lectures or similar activities. Other ministries and social forces in China also send scholars to lecture abroad. More than 70 activities and lectures have been held in more than 30 countries, including the United States, France, Italy, Cambodia and Indonesia. The content varies from philosophy, religion, cultural heritage, literature and art, costume, cooking and Chinese medicine. You are here: Home The first China-made subway cars tailored for Boston's orange line rolled off the production line Monday in Changchun, capital of northeast China's Jilin Province. A subway train manufactured for Boston Subway's new Orange Line is seen on Monday in Changchun, Jilin province. [Photo/China Daily] The subway cars, which will be delivered to the United States in December, are among a 284-carriage order signed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles and Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) in December 2014. "With completely independent intellectual property rights, China-made subway cars have met U.S. standards in terms of control security, quality management and vehicle strength," said Yu Qingsong, deputy chief engineer of CRRC Changchun. The subway cars have adopted high anti-collision standards, which ensure passenger safety in case of trains colliding at a speed of 40 kilometers per hour, Yu said. "These 'next-generation vehicles' will be the backbone of our heavy rail fleet for many years to come," said Jerry Polcari, chief procurement officer for the MBTA. The U.S. rail transit market has strict requirements in terms of technology, localization, and law. The 2014 deal, intended for the orange and red lines of the Boston subway, was the first time a Chinese train car maker won a bid in the U.S. market. Parts of the subway cars will be produced in Springfield, Massachusetts, where a CRRC assembly factory was built in September 2015. Creating at least 150 jobs, the factory is expected to open 2018. All 38 delegations to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) had arrived in Beijing by Monday evening for the upcoming political event. Delegates of Hunan Province to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) arrive in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 16, 2017. The congress will start on Oct. 18 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) The delegations represent the Chinese mainland's 31 provincial regions, departments of the CPC Central Committee, central government organs, enterprises controlled by the central government, central financial system, the People's Liberation Army, the Armed Police, and CPC members of Taiwan origin. More than 2,200 delegates, chosen from more than 89 million CPC members across the nation, will attend the twice-a-decade congress, scheduled to open Wednesday. The delegates will deliberate an 18th CPC Central Committee report, a CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection work report and an amendment to the CPC Constitution at the congress. The congress is also expected to unveil new CPC leadership and set a blueprint for national development for the next five years and beyond. Chinese scientists on Monday announced observation of the "optical counterpart" of gravitational waves coming from the merger of two binary neutron stars using a survey telescope in Antarctica. Photo taken on Dec. 30, 2016 shows Chinese telescope AST3-2. Chinese scientists on Monday announced observation of the "optical counterpart" of gravitational waves coming from the merger of two binary neutron stars using a survey telescope in Antarctica. [Photo/Xinhua] The gravitational waves were first discovered by the U.S.-based Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors on Aug. 17. The Chinese telescope independently observed optical signals resulting from the merger the next day, among some 70 telescopes on the ground or from space across the world, according to the Chinese Center for Antarctic Astronomy. It was the first time humans have detected gravitational waves and the corresponding electromagnetic phenomena resulting from a binary neutron star merger. Data exclusively collected by the Chinese detector has led to a preliminary estimate of the ejecta parameters, according to Wang Lifan, director of the center. The merging process ejected radioactive material with more than 3,000 times the mass of the Earth at a speed of up to 30 percent the speed of light, Wang said. A merger of black holes with an extremely strong gravitational field can not generate ejecta or electromagnetic phenomena, according to Wu Xuefeng, a researcher with the Purple Mountain Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. However, the collision of binary neutron stars is accompanied by a series of electromagnetic phenomena that are crucial to research in origins of heavy elements like platinum and gold. "The crash of binary neutron stars is like a gigantic gold factory in the universe," said Jin Zhiping, an associate researcher with the observatory and a member of an international team that analyzed optical signals. The host galaxy of the incident is located about 130 million light years from the Earth. In 2015, LIGO detectors confirmed the existence of gravitational waves produced during the merger of two black holes, which were predicted by Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity 100 years ago. So far, LIGO and its partners have discovered four cases of gravitational waves coming from mergers of two black holes. The Chinese telescope is a catadioptric optical telescope with an entrance pupil diameter of 500 mm. Its unique location allows for continuous observations lasting longer than 24 hours during the austral winter. China's first X-ray astronomical satellite, a Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope named Insight, also contributed to the detection. Only two months after its launch, the satellite successfully monitored the space where the incident occurred. Chinese scientists forecast that the next achievement in observation might be gravitational waves coming from the merger of a binary neutron star and a black hole. Chinese police have handed over an American "Red Notice" fugitive to U.S. law enforcers Monday at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) said in a statement. Chinese police hand over an American "Red Notice" fugitive to U.S. law enforcers at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on October 16, 2017. [Photo/Chinanews.com] The repatriation was demanded by U.S. law enforcement authorities and was the latest result of Sino-U.S. cooperation in chasing fugitives and illicit money since the countries' first law enforcement and cybersecurity dialogue on Oct. 4. According to the MPS, the fugitive conducted multiple sexual assaults on children aged from six to 12 in the United States during July 2009 and August 2012. In June 2017, Interpol issued a "Red Notice" on the fugitive after a year of investigation by U.S. police. The investigation showed that the fugitive fled to Shanghai in May. Chinese police played their part by locating and capturing him after receiving a notice from the United States. The MPS said China and the United States will carry out further cooperation in chasing fugitives and illicit money. Who says President Donald Trump has failed to fulfill his promises? So far, he has ripped up the Tran-Pacific Partnership agreement, withdrawn from the Paris climate deal, walked out of UNESCO (I'm not sure if that was among his election promises) and remains committed to building a wall along the Mexican border. The latest addition to the list of achievements is a clear intention to abandon the nuclear deal with Iran, and provide an opportunity for the Islamic republic to restart proliferation activities, and possibly recreate direct conflict with Tehran. The deal was reached in 2015 after years of disagreement and feuding over the nuclear intentions and capabilities of Iran. The final agreement provided a robust system of verification to check its nuclear ambitions in return for economic sanctions easing. It was a major success of multilateral diplomacy, involving the U.S., China, Russia, Germany, U.K. and France. The final draft of the agreement gained unanimous support from all participants. Disregarding the opinions of the other stakeholders, Trump has refused to recertify the deal, a mandatory practice every 90 days. He did certify it twice, before saying a definite no when certification was due up for the third time since he took the office. The matter now goes to Congress, which has 60 days to decide the fate of the nuclear deal. All participants, minus the U.S., have expressed support for continuation of the deal. Iran has also expressed willingness to abide by it. The IAEA has said it is so far satisfied with Iran's behavior, which had been fulfilling all obligations under the deal. Trump was critical of several steps taken by his predecessor Barack Obama, which could be termed part of his "legacy" if allowed to continue for longer period. Obamacare and the Iran nuclear deal are two leading examples from the previous administration's domestic and foreign policies. Trump had long disliked both, and vowed to reverse them. He is still stuck in the process of trying to rewrite the health care laws, and his efforts to wriggle out of the nuclear deal may suffer the same fate if Congress shows the kind of maturity and authority one expects from American lawmakers. However, the problem with the nuclear deal is that Israel and Saudi Arabia have been against it from day one, lobbying hard with American officials and power brokers for its cancellation. Saudi King Salman has also called Trump to support his tough message to Iran. Since Congress is not free from the influence of well-connected and powerful lobbyists, opposition to Trump's efforts may not be as stubborn as in the case of Obamacare. The deal would be effectively dead for America if Congress sided with the president. So, it would be up to the remaining participants to show some true grit and stand up for the agreement, showing the kind of resolve seen among leading countries when Trump withdrew from the environmental Paris deal. Trump is trying to create new norm in unilateralism. It is time for other powers to resist this trend, because, if allowed to become a settled practice, the world system could easily crumble if other nations decided to follow suit. The international system is based on consensus among the big powers. The United States is still the biggest power but it cannot write the laws governing global politics. Unilateralism is just dangerous as the Trump notion of preemptive strikes. It is not good for America, which in the past opposed unilateral policies by others. Not long time ago, the U.S. leaders were in the forefront in opposing the annexation of Crimea by Russia through unilateral action ignoring world opinion. Hence, it is important that Trump should avoid actions which would put Iran on a war path. If he needs any reminder, he should remember the invasion of Iraq by George Bush in complete disregard of domestic and international opinion. It created a rift with European allies and dealt a blow to American prestige. Sajjad Malik is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit: http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/SajjadMalik.htm You are here: Home Flash Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree to impose a number of bans on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in compliance with the United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 2321, Russia's legal document portal published Monday. Russia imposed sanctions on 11 DPRK individuals and 10 companies involved in Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, according to the decree. It banned exports to the DPRK of 80 chemical substances and types of equipment and software that may be used to produce nuclear, chemical or biological weapons. The decree cut the number of bank accounts of DPRK's diplomatic missions in Russia and bans exports of luxury items, including expensive tapestries, carpets and porcelain kitchenware. It also recommended the suspension of scientific and technical cooperation that may contribute to nuclear and missile development with individuals and institutions representing the DPRK. Other measures were also included in the 39-page presidential decree. On Nov. 30, 2016, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted the Resolution 2321 in response to Pyongyang's fifth nuclear test on Sept. 9. In the UN document, the 15-nation council decided that the DPRK should not supply, sell or transfer coal, iron and iron ore from its territory, but excluded transactions for livelihood purposes. The council set an upper limit on the DPRK's coal exporting and banned the sale of copper, nickel, silver, zinc and statues from the DPRK. Flash The European Union (EU) on Monday adopted a total ban on EU investment in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), in a bid to ratchet up economic pressure on the Northeast Asia country over its ongoing nuclear and ballistic missile program. The total ban, taking effect immediately, is one of the EU's autonomous measures against the DPRK which was adopted by EU foreign ministers at a meeting in Luxembourg, according to a statement of the Foreign Affairs Council. The ban was previously limited to investment in the nuclear and conventional arms-related industry. The Council also slapped a total ban on the sales of refined petroleum products and crude oil to the DPRK, and slashed the amount of personal remittances transferred to the DPRK from 15,000 euros (US$17,7000) to 5,000 euros (US$5,900). Furthermore, the Council added three persons and six entities to a blacklist of those subject to an asset freeze and travel restrictions, bringing the backlist to 41 individuals and 10 entities. The EU has carried out all UN sanctions against the DPRK, in addition to its autonomous restrictive measures against Pyongyang. The UN Security Council on Sept. 11 unanimously adopted a resolution to impose fresh sanctions on the DPRK over its nuclear test on Sept. 3 in violation of the previous Security Council resolutions. The new sanctions severely restrict the DPRK's oil imports, and ban its textile exports worth US$800 million and the remittances from about 93,000 overseas DPRK laborers. Reiterating that the "dual--track approach" and the "suspension for suspension" initiative are practical methods to solve the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang has called on all relevant parties to actively support China's efforts to push for dialogue and negotiation, and play a constructive role for a peaceful solution of the issue. Pyongyang on Sept. 3 detonated a hydrogen bomb capable of being carried by an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the sixth nuclear test it has undertaken, running counter to relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the goal of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula. Flash Spanish High Court judge Carmen Lamela on Monday night ordered to send the leader of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) Jordi Sanchez and the leader of Omnium Cultural Jordi Cuixat into prison without bail while charges of sedition against them are being investigated. The sedition charges relate to events in Barcelona on Sept. 20, with the pair being accused of organizing a demonstration outside the offices of the Catalan economy ministry in Barcelona. The demonstration meant Civil Guards were unable to leave the building for hours, while their vehicles suffered some damage as they arrested Catalan Economy Secretary Josep Maria Jove for his supposed role in helping organize the Oct. 1 independence referendum in the region, which had been ruled illegal by the Spanish Constitutional Court. Omnium is a pro-Catalan independence movement which promotes Catalan culture and language. Earlier Monday, the judge rejected the appeal of the Spanish State Prosecutor to apply the same action against the chief of the Catalan regional police force (Mossos de Esquadra), Josep Lluis Trapero, who is also being investigated for sedition. Judge Lamela said that for the moment, there was not enough evidence to link Trapero to such a charge and left him and Mossos' Superintendent, Teresa Laplana, in conditional freedom, although both will have to surrender their passports and report to a judge every fortnight. Radio Free Asia 2017-10-16 Beijing is shuttering factories to ensure blue skies over major cities ahead of the 19th national congress of the ruling Chinese Communist Party on Thursday, and clearing prominent dissidents out of the capital city under the watchful eye of state security police, sources told RFA. A Guangdong resident surnamed Cui said several factories in his neighborhood had been shut down in recent days. They have closed so many factories that this has led to rises in the prices for industrial products, Cui said. The price of raw materials for construction such as concrete and steel bars for concrete reinforcement is being set very high because of the factory closures and low levels of inventory. And a lot of people are complaining that supplies of some items have been cut off altogether, he said. Prices of industrial raw materials, fertilizer and pesticides are very high already, several times higher than before. People walk past a poster featuring Chinese President Xi Jinping with a slogan reading Chinese Dream, Peoples Dream beside a road in Beijing on Oct. 16, 2017. AFP As the ruling Chinese Communist Party gears up for its five-yearly national congress, which opens in Beijing onWednesday, President Xi Jinping will unveil his plans and leadership team for the next five years in government. Chinas smog has repeatedly brought large swathes of the country to a standstill in recent years, particularly in the north, forcing airports to cancel thousands of flights, requiring schools to close, and reducing visibility on city streets. But the government typically takes drastic measures to ensure clear blue skies over politically important events, including its hosting of the G20 in the eastern city of Hangzhou last year, and Beijings hosting of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum in 2014. Lin Jiang, professor of economics at Zhongshan Universitys Lingnan College said the factory closures are likely to have negative impact on the local economy, however. Some factories are being ordered to shut down, but will this lead to job losses and factory closures? Lin said. If the workers have no work, their incomes will suffer, and [this] will have a negative impact on commercial enterprises. And, if they have taken out debt, how will they pay it back if they shut down? Forced vacations for dissenters Beijing-based environmental activist Chen Lixia said similar measures are being implemented in the Chinese capital. This will definitely have an impact on air pollution its very clear that it is having an effect, Chen said. But factories arent the only source of pollution and emissions, which also includes urban transportation. So its very hard to deal completely with the pollution problem. Pollution in Beijing was still fairly heavy, according to official readings of PM2.5 particulates, which was in the Unhealthy zone by Monday evening, according to the air quality website aqicn.com. Meanwhile, prominent rights activists have been removed from the city and forced to go on vacation under escort by the state security police, sources said. A relative of Liu Xia, widow of late Nobel peace laureate and political prisoner Liu Xiaobo, said she left town last week after undergoing a series of medical tests in a Beijing hospital following her return from house arrest in the southwestern province of Yunnan following her husbands death. Shes had all the tests now, and she has left town because they are about to begin the congress, the relative said. This is common practice. The relative said Liu is likely with her brother Liu Hui. Of course shell have somebody with her, she said. Shes not a well woman. Meanwhile, Beijing rights activist Hu Jia said he is now on vacation outside Beijing, and has been unable to contact Liu Xia. I am sad to say that I dont know much about her situation right now, Hu said. Ill Ive been able to find out is that, like me, shes no longer in Beijing. I tried to stay behind as long as I could, because my mother is sick, but today was the last day they would allow it, because the congress starts the day after tomorrow, he said. Other high-profile dissidents including outspoken political journalist Gao Yu, Bao Tong, former top aide to late ousted premier Zhao Ziyang and political activist Zha Jianguo are already under tight surveillance, some of them outside the city. Calls to Zhao Ziyangs daughter Wang Yanan rang unanswered on Monday. Reported by Wong Lok-to and Hai Nan for RFAs Cantonese Service, and by Gao Feng for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. ChinaAid Media Team Cell: +1 (432) 553-1080 | Office: +1 (432) 689-6985 | Other: +1 (888) 889-7757 Email: [email protected] For more information, click here A subway train manufactured for Boston Subway's new Orange Line is seen in Changchun, Jilin province, on Oct 16, 2017. [Photo provided to China Daily] The first batch of subway trains manufactured by China for Boston Subway's new Orange Line is expected to be shipped to the city in December, its manufacturer said on Monday. State-owned train makerCRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles Co, a subsidiary of China Railway Rolling Stock Corp, said this is the first time that a Chinese company is exporting its subway trains to the United States with complete Chinese intellectual property. The stainless-steel subway trains can be operated at 102 kilometers per hour and have a service life of 30 years. The Chinese company will manufacture 152 railcars for the city's Orange Line and 132 cars for the Red Line to replace the cars now in service, which were built by Hawker Siddeley Canada between 1979 and 1981. Jia Bo, vice-president of CRRC MA Corp, the group's subsidiary in the US, said China's rail vehicle product makers are no longer winning deals just with lower prices, but also with advanced technology standards and efficient after-sales services. The vehicle structural strength, safety control and quality management system of these trains conform to US standards. It is also the first time that all systems of the entire vehicle comply with US requirements and standards. The Chinese firm has implemented more than 120 standards required by different US government branches and civil associations, including the US Environmental Protection Agency, Americans with Disabilities Act and the Public Transportation Safety Act of Massachusetts. "These standards can ensure the safety of passengers when two six-carriage subways train collide at a speed of 40 kilometers per hour," said Hong Haifeng, a technical manager at CRRC Changchun. He said building subway cars with less weight was a key factor in the company's contract win. In terms of structural design, material selection and space optimization, the company has taken 80 measures to reduce the weight of the vehicle by 1.8 metric tons to 33 tons, which has advantages over heavy rail transit vehicles made by US companies. CRRC Changchun will also provide subway trains for Los Angeles and for Melbourne, Australia. Zhao Ying, a researcher at the Institute of Industrial Economics of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing, said in the global context, China's high-speed trains come at competitive prices. "China's bullet trains can also run in various climates, ranging from tropical to alpine, as well as across various geological conditions, which is definitely suitable for operation in big countries such as the US and Canada," he said. Teapots form group to cooperate on production, sales and imports Analysts say an independent oil refiners' alliance in Shandong will help the teapot refiners enhance bargaining power and reduce vicious competition amid an excess capacity in the sector. Several teapots in Shandong have set up a refining conglomerate recently with a planned registered capital reaching 90 billion yuan ($13.67 billion). This will combine the country's largest independent oil refineries, known as teapots, and coordinate their production, sales, crude oil imports and investment. The conglomerate will include a total of 16 companies, with eight firms having already invested 33.2 billion yuan in the joint venture. These include Shandong Dongming Petrochemical Group, China's largest teapot. It holds 22.63 percent of the shares, followed by Blue Economy Zone Industrial Fund at 22.59 percent, and Shandong Tianhong Chemical Company, a subsidiary of Wanda Petrochemical Group, at 13.29 percent. The coastal province contains more than 70 percent of China's independent oil refineries, most of which are privately owned. Li Li, an energy research director at ICIS China, a consulting company that provides energy market analysis, said the alliance aims at a better market share; the current situation, with fierce trading competition and refining capacity excess, is the direct reason of the forming of the alliance. The setting up of the joint venture is to push for further cooperation of the scattered private refiners, optimizing the purchasing of raw materials, logistics distribution, fund circulation and product quality, all of which helps create a more competent and competitive force, she said. The teapots are becoming an importance force in the industry, especially since 2015, when the central government allowed crude oil import quotas to the individual refiners. Since then, they have imported a huge amount of crude oil from overseas, including the Middle East, Latin America, Russia and the United States, exerting influence on the oil market and contributing some one quarter of China's refining capacity. "The conglomerate will act as a rival to the two State-owned major refiners in the country, namely China National Petroleum Corp and China Petroleum and Chemical Corp," Li said. "Yet, considering the continuous excess capacity in the sector, it's impossible the teapot conglomerate will shake the status of the two energy and chemical juggernauts." Zhang Liucheng, vice-president of Shandong Dongming, said the oil refinery sector in the country has been intensifying and the growing rivalries have added to the financial struggles of the industry. With a revenue of more than 88.6 billion yuan last year, Shandong Dongming is China's largest teapot. The revenues of all the teapots in Shandong exceeds 492.5 billion yuan. Recent years have seen fierce competition in China's refining sector, with growth in refining capacity continuously outpacing growth in demand. Analysts expect the glut in refined fuels could last for years, partly due to the slowing demand domestically and a surfeit of refining capacity. Wang Lu, an Asia-Pacific oil and gas analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, forecasted slower growth for the refinery sector in the next five years as refiners are gearing up to produce higher-quality fuels with less sulfur, thereby reducing pollution. Cutting overcapacity remains the biggest challenge for refiners, since additional refining capacity is under construction, she said. The imposing red and white chimneys of Kobe Steel Ltd plant dominate the harbor of Kakogawa, Hyogo, Japan. [Photo/Agencies] TOKYOMade in Japan became a byword for industrial quality under the once-vaunted keiretsu system of trust-based ties between manufacturers and suppliers. But that reputation has been eroded during recent years. Kobe Steel is just the latest in a string of corporate scandals involving data tampering and other methods of cheating to tarnish the Japan Inc quality stamp. It may be a sign that the government's push to improve corporate governance is seeing greater disclosure of wrongdoing. Yet the root cause is more likely that Japanese manufacturers are failing modern compliance standards as they grapple with a shrinking domestic market and increased global competition. As the focus has shifted to market mechanisms instead of cozy relationship-based arrangements, Japanese companies have had to compete on price and expand their client base. "Growing global competition has forced Japanese manufacturers to cut costs to be more efficient, while fulfilling a production quota, which is often difficult to achieve," said Motokazu Endo, a lawyer at Tokyo Kasumigaseki law office. The keiretsu system was the bedrock of Japan's automotive industry. As the market has become more competition based, those automakers now invest less in their suppliers and spend less time checking what those suppliers' factories are producing, according to Hitoshi Kaise, an auto industry consultant and partner at Roland Berger. Beyond that, Japan's economy has suffered decades of anemic growth, bogged down in deflation with its population shrinking and with growing competition from its Asian neighbors. "Those pressures have potentially whittled away at Japanese firms' ability to compete," said Hideaki Miyajima, a Waseda University professor and corporate governance expert. The list of manufacturer miscreants is long and growing. Nissan Motor Co has had to recall every new car it sold in Japan in the last three years after it falsified safety checks. Suzuki Motor Corp and Mitsubishi Motors Corp have faced scandals over fuel economy tests on their vehicles, and there was even wrongdoing by the now bankrupt air bag maker Takata, Toyo Tire & Rubber Co and Asahi Kasei Corp. "While focusing on targets was right in the beginning, it has gone too far, with companies that can't hit their targets resorting to deception," said Hiroshi Osada, a production quality expert and Bunkyo University professor. During the last 15 years, compliance rules have become stricter but many Japanese companies have carried on with practices common in the past. "There are many of these problems lying dormant on the factory floor," said Nobuo Gohara, a lawyer specializing in compliance, who took part in an audit of Olympus Corp after its accounting scandal in 2011. Professor Thomas Clarke, a corporate governance expert at the University of Technology in Sydney, stressed that Japan runs the risk it will "lose out as other Asian economies, including China, progressively raise their standards of quality and reliability." Even when moves are taken to strengthen external monitoring of companies, "it's not possible to conduct checks day in, day out," said Osada at Bunkyo University, who sat on an external panel that audited Toyota during its 2010 recall crisis. Companies must do more to develop a culture in which workers are able to raise concerns and say "no" to their bosses, and in which teamwork is used to catch wrongdoing by other employees. "More attention should be focused on Japan's board members, who are not active enough in engaging with scandals when they occur," said Shin Ushijima, lawyer and president of the Japan Corporate Governance Network. REUTERS Eric Thun, a professor at Oxford University, conducts a lecture about China for EMBA students. [Photo provided to China Daily] Professors from leading Western business schools are increasingly using Chinese companies for their written case studies. This is because they have garnered global attention through their unprecedented growth levels as they become dominant players in their fields. Big names, including Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, Xiaomi Corp, WeChat, and Didi Chuxing - the Chinese-equivalent of Uber - are increasingly quoted and scrutinized in leading business school journals. "I find it interesting to analyze innovative Chinese companies such as Xiaomi as they champion new business models," said Robert Burgleman, a professor of management at Stanford Graduate School of Business. "It is also interesting to research how some Chinese companies first achieve scale in their huge domestic market," he added. "And how they might build on the advantages of achieving that level of scale to gain competitive advantage in competing abroad." In a business case Burgleman co-wrote with colleagues about Xiaomi, he closely analyzed the Chinese smartphone maker's incredible journey. It was valued at more than $10 billion three years after it was set up in 2010, a valuation that was almost twice that of BlackBerry at the time. Chinese companies did not have such a strong presence on the syllabuses of Western business schools in past decades. China Europe International Business School in Shanghai led the way in 2013 with a China-focused MBA case study platform in collaboration with 13 MBA schools globally. It has now officially accepted more than 500 cases. Harvard Business School's China center in Shanghai, which opened in 2010, now extensively supports the university's top researchers in conducting China-focused research and case study development. New York University Stern School of Business in the United States has established a China Initiative to help grow China-focused research and discussions. These facilitate talks between the faculty and other academics, students, alumni and the wider local intellectual community. Jennifer Carpenter, an associate professor of finance at NYU Stern, started the initiative. She said studying China's businesses is incredibly challenging and rewarding because it requires academics to engage with facts and data through a completely different perspective. "China is often hard to understand because it's a totally different system. You cannot run China data through a US model," Carpenter said. Historically, most of the academic theories taught at business schools have been US-centric. Now, the different economic growth model and Chinese businesses' innovation strategies are prompting scholars to question their inherent assumptions and find alternative approaches, Carpenter pointed out. Her research delves deep into China's financial system's controlled process of reform and opening-up, and how that influences the country's stock market, capital market and financial regulations. "Because China is very different from the US, it prompted me to question why is the US capital market structured the way it is," Carpenter said. "Studying China also allowed me to understand the US better." Foreign students experience Tai Chi in China as a part of culture studies during the CKGSB China Start program. [Photo provided to China Daily] In the warmth and tranquility of the Swiss Alps, a group of Chinese tour operators gather for a lesson in innovation and inspiration. The group are being sponsored by TravelSky Technology, the State-owned travel information provider based in Beijing, to attend an executive education course hosted by Switzerland's IMD Business School. The venue is the Chateauform Chalet de Champery, a boutique hotel exemplary of Swiss hospitality, which has been especially chosen with the intention to inspire the tour operators. But unlike the five-star luxury hotels that are now commonplace in China, Chateauform is characterized by a certain simplicity and unique designs aimed at encouraging interaction. Guests spend most of their spare time in the lounge, as no television is available in their rooms. There, drinks are readily available but no barman is seen, so guests are prompted to serve each other. Howard Yu, a professor of strategic management and innovation at IMD, who led the lesson, said the goal is not for the Chinese tour operators to copy the model wholesale, but to adopt ways of thinking, which they can use in their businesses. "A lot of these guys in China are very busy," Yu said. "They constantly look at what their competitors are offering, because they feel they're facing the danger of falling behind. "We wanted to show them how Western pioneering companies can get ahead of the competition by developing innovative solutions to satisfy customer needs, instead of being copycats," he added. The Chateauform lesson is just one example of tailor-made China-oriented executive training programs being offered by leading business schools globally. Once a shrinking market in the years following the financial crisis, programs such as these are experiencing a revival. Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business launched an executive program known as China Start. It offers international startup companies the chance to visit leading incubators and platform businesses, such as JD.com Inc, to discuss collaboration opportunities. Leveraging on its huge alumni network, the school takes these overseas businesses on the China Start program to meet investors. Of 10,000 alumni so far, more than half are company chairs or chief executives. In 2015, the University of Oxford's Said Business School, Harvard Business School and Peking University jointly created an executive degree program to help Chinese family businesses overcome challenges, such as succession planning, structural shift and globalization. "The program is so well designed and touches the very heart of challenges we face as a family business," said Guo Feng, 34, a second-generation family business owner who participated in the program. Leela Greenberg and her CEIBS MBA 2017 classmates on the streets of Shanghai filming an episode of the online series China Business 101, which she hosted and co-produced. [Photo provided to China Daily] The country has become a popular destination for Western business school students in the past few years When Jason Klanderman arrived in Shanghai in August 2016, he noticed bicycles made by Mobike Technology Co Ltd scattered around the city. He was in China to complete a year of overseas studies as part of his global masters management program with the London Business School. Three months later, Mobike cycles were popping up in groups of hundreds and thousands all over the city. That was followed by the fast rollout of more than a dozen similar bike-sharing schemes. Klanderman was even more surprised when he started noticing Mobike cycles appearing on London's streets a year later. "Very quickly, Mobike became a popular case study across various classes, from supply-chain management, to e-commerce and marketing," he said. "Being able to see Mobike's unbelievable growth with my own eyes and then discuss my observations with our professors was so exciting," Klanderman added. The mind-boggling speed of the startup's expansion is perhaps an indicator of the vibrancy and disruptive innovation which has fueled China's economic miracle during the past three decades. A desire to understand the country's economy has made it an increasingly popular destination for business school students worldwide because of the increasing availability of courses. London Business School's global masters program in management, which started two years ago, sends students to the Shanghai-based Fudan University in their second year. So far, the program's graduates have recorded the highest rates of employment from LBS programs. More than 95 percent of graduates have found jobs within three months of graduation, and half of them chose to stay in Asia to work. Similar China-focused initiatives can be found at other academic institutions. University College London recently launched a new entrepreneurship-focused MBA program in partnership with Peking University in Beijing. And Oxford's Said Business School takes all its executive MBA students to the world's second largest economy for studies and visits to companies. Harvard Business School runs an incredibly popular China immersion program, which requires MBA students to be sent on internships with domestic firms. Leela Greenberg and her CEIBS MBA classmates participate in the National MBA Dragon Boat Race, which is held each year in Shanghai. [Photo provided to China Daily] They are instructed to conduct market research in the country with the help of translators. They then combine academic theories to propose suggestions to the companies they work with. "Because students are paired with Chinese companies that have innovation challenges, they get to work with managers who really think about innovation," said Felix Oberholzer-Gee, a professor of business administration at Harvard Business School. "Since they have already tried things, the managers are interested to see the perspective of someone not from China," he added. The Grenoble Ecole de Management in France offers a China-focused doctorate of business administration program in partnership with Tongji University, Sun Yat-sen University and Chongqing University. The program supports students in conducting in-depth research into unique Chinese business phenomenon. Examples of past students' research include analysis of how traditional medicine experiences are incorporated into modern hospitals, the rapid expansion of high-tech Chinese companies, and supply chain management practices of multinationals in the country. "When our students' research papers were published in international peer review journals, they found a keen audience among leading Western academics who were really curious about China's economic growth story," said Jeff Yan, an associate professor of management, technology and strategy at the Grenoble Ecole de Management. Data from GMAC, administrators of the GMAT business school entrance exam, showed that since 2008, German, Spanish, and Swiss citizens have sent more GMAT scores to China than some regions of North America and Europe. According to 2016 statistics from the Observatory on Borderless Higher Education, China ranked the leading host nation for universities' international branches. Examples of business schools that have branches in the country include the Hult International Business School and UBC Sauder, both of which have campuses in Shanghai. Meanwhile, the number of foreign students directly attending Chinese business schools has also grown. The Shanghai-based China Europe International Business School, which is also known as CEIBS, is now teaching its MBA degree in English. Up to 34 percent of its students are non-Chinese. The effort seems to be paying off. Students on some of the most prestigious Western programs can expect to earn 80 to 100 percent more after graduating. And CEIBS graduates earn 157 percent more on average after completing an MBA. Programs at schools based in China now occupy 14 percent of the Financial Times' top 50 MBA rankings, with Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and CEIBS the top performers. The familiarity and excitement that business school students develop for the country during their studies there often prompt them to remain after graduation. "Life and studies at CEIBS definitely helped me to acclimatize to the Chinese business environment and Chinese culture," said Leela Greenberg, 29, a graduate of the CEIBS MBA program who is from the United States. After graduation, Greenberg joined a global leadership trainee program at the Hangzhou headquarters of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. "I'm amazed by Alibaba's incredibly fast pace of globalization," she said. "This also gives me many learning opportunities and allows me to develop a career as a bridge between China and the world. "It's the best thing that CEIBS helped me to achieve," Greenberg added. RIGA - A container train, which left western China at the end of September, arrived in the Latvian capital city Riga on Monday, local media reported. The train delivering 41 containers with food supplements from China to Western Europe left the Chinese city of Urumqi, the capital city of Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region on Sept 29. This is the first container train arranged by Kazakhstan's railway company Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) on the Urumqi-Altynkol-Riga-Rotterdam route. From Riga, the cargo will be shipped to the Dutch port of Rotterdam by sea. Latvia can become a good choice for transport companies delivering cargos between Asia and Europe as the turnover of container cargos between Europe and Asia doubles each year, while the capacity of transport infrastructure remains the same, Edvins Berzins, CEO of Latvia's national rail company Latvijas Dzelzcels said, noting that the railway industry therefore must cooperate with ports and shipping companies to attract more such cargos. "The route via Brest, which currently is used by some 5,000 trains a year, has practically reached its capacity limit. Clients therefore have to look for alternative routes to deliver their cargos to their destinations in the same time and for the same price. And this is Latvia's chance," the head of the Latvian rail company said. "What we can offer is capacity and speed," he added. Commenting on the container train from Urumqi which was greeted at the Freeport of Riga on Monday, Berzins declined to say when the next such train might arrive in the Latvian capital, but indicated that work is under way to arrange the next train and launch regular container train traffic on the route. "This is hard work, affected by various circumstances, so I would rather not name the date for launching regular deliveries, but I am confident that at one point we will be able to announce the start of regular traffic," Berzins said. RABAT - Morocco and China have agreed to set up an economic zone in Morocco's northern city of Fez, offering a platform for boosting bilateral cooperation in various industries, local media reported Monday. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the Fes-Meknes Regional Investment Center and the China Industrial Cooperation Association, the financial daily L'Economiste reported. The deal aims to establish an economic zone as a platform to attract Chinese investments in the fields of automobile, aviation, agriculture, health and renewable energy, the report said. Bilateral economic cooperation between Morocco and China has been growing steadily since the establishment of a strategic partnership during the Moroccan king's visit to China in May 2016. Since then, Morocco has witnessed a wave of Chinese investment in the country, especially in the areas of infrastructure construction and industrialization. In June 2016, Morocco granted Chinese citizens visa-free entry to the North African kingdom. NEW YORK - China's ongoing economic transformation has provided great new opportunities for multinational corporations operating in the country, Rachel Duan, president and CEO of General Electric (GE) China, told Xinhua in a recent interview. "China has entered a 'new normal.' The source of its growth is shifting from the old days of export, investment-led to more consumption- and innovation-driven...We see tremendous opportunities from this," said Duan. Evolving environment Headquartered in Boston in the northeastern US state of Massachusetts, GE was one of the first multinationals to enter the Chinese market over a century ago. In terms of investment environment, "plenty has changed compared with 30 years ago when China just started to open the door," Duan noted. The first change is China itself. "The economy has been growing tremendously in the past decades, and the homegrown demand has become a large draw for the multinational wanting to come to China," the CEO said. "(The multinationals) no longer just come here to open up a market; you really want to be here for a long term, be part of the community and better serve the Chinese consumers," she added. Duan, who has been working at the GE for some 20 years, noticed that the competitors have also changed. "We no longer just compete with multinationals in China, but also the upcoming Chinese companies," she said. Over the years, the fast growth of China's capability in engineering, product development and manufacturing has forced the company to compete at a faster speed, according to Duan. A third change the GE has witnessed is the improvement of overall regulatory environment in China, which Duan regarded as the key to making the country "a really fair-trade market." "We have seen that the Chinese overall industry regulation standards have continued to raise the bar, to meet the international standards, which I think is a great trend," she said. New opportunities In recent years, rather than adopting large-scale stimulus, China has been intensifying efforts to shift the economy towards consumption, services and innovation, which has opened new doors for multinationals like the GE. As the world's leading digital industrial company, the GE has realized the fastest growth in the past 20 years, which coincides with the fast economic development in China, said Duan. She expected the group to further ride the wave of China's deepening economic reform, especially in fields like clean energy, healthcare, aviation and infrastructure. "China is already the world's No 1 energy market in terms of installation base, and what is more exciting is, it is changing from coal- dominated to clean, renewable energy and gas. That is a great opportunity," she said. Meanwhile, in face of an aging population and rising middle class, China's health care market has become increasingly attractive to the company. "People have more money to spend and are willing to spend on healthcare, and the government we anticipate will continue to invest in healthcare programs," noted Duan, who is also head of the group's healthcare division in China. In terms of aviation, the CEO pointed out that "if you look at the number of travelers, China is the second largest after the United States ... in the foreseeable future, the growth will be tremendous." From Duan's viewpoints, the Belt and Road Initiative has offered the GE tremendous opportunities to partner with Chinese companies in infrastructure projects beyond the country. Proposed by China in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative comprises the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, aiming to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia, Africa and Europe along ancient trade routes. Over the past four years, the initiative has won support from over 100 countries and international organizations, with nearly 50 cooperation agreements signed, official data showed. "The initiative is very visionary and really addresses some of the most needed infrastructure needs in the world," Duan said, adding that the company has benefited greatly by providing technology solutions to the related infrastructure projects. Statistics from the GE showed that revenue from the energy infrastructure projects in the Belt and Road markets tripled from $711 million in 2014 to $2.3 billion in 2016. Already the GE's second largest market after the United States, China will continue to be the company's major hub for the Asia Pacific, and "hopefully for the world in the near future," said Duan, the first home grown CEO of GE China. "We are very optimistic about China's growth prospects ... and we are going to continue to invest and localize our efforts in China," she added. The first batch of subway trains manufactured by China for the Boston subway's new Orange Line is expected to be shipped to the city in December, announced the manufacturer, CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles -- on Oct 16. [Photo by Ding Luyang/chinadaily.com.cn] The first batch of subway trains manufactured by China for the Boston subway's new Orange Line is expected to be shipped to the city in December, announced the manufacturer -- CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles -- on Oct 16. These trains will be the first China-made trains in the US and have been made strictly in accordance with US standards. Customers look at Apple's new iPhone 8 Plus after it goes on sale at an Apple Store in Shanghai. [Photo/Agencies] Qualcomm Inc's decision to file a patent lawsuit against Apple Inc in China is putting pressure on the US smartphone maker as it faces mounting competition from local rivals, analysts said on Monday. The move came at a critical point when Apple's 10th anniversary iPhone is set to compete head-to-head with Mate 10, the artificial-intelligence-enabled handset unveiled by Huawei Technologies Co Ltd on Monday in Germany. Jia Mo, an analyst at global consultancy Canalys, said: "Qualcomm taking the initiative to challenge Apple in the world's largest smartphone market shows that the chip giant is no longer willing to compromise its intellectual property income." Qualcomm said on Friday that it has filed a lawsuit in a Beijing intellectual property court, seeking to halt the manufacturing and sale of Apple's iPhones in China, where most iPhones are produced. "It will take a very, very long time for the Chinese court to reach a ruling. But given Qualcomm's aggressive stance, it seems to have very solid evidence to safeguard its interest," Jia said. The latest move is part of a broad and prolonged legal dispute that centers on Qualcomm's technology licensing business. Qualcomm generates most of its profits from charging fees for patents that cover the fundamentals of all modern phone systems. But Apple accused it of overcharging unnecessary fees. The lawsuit also came as Apple is to start selling its most advanced handset iPhone X on Nov 3. Customs officials in Zhengzhou, capital of Henan province, where major iPhone plants are located, said over 46,500 iPhone X had been shipped out of local factories on Saturday, heading to the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates. On Monday, its arch rival Huawei unveiled the Mate 10, which boasts a slate of upgraded AI features such as faster image recognition capabilities. Xiang Ligang, a smartphone expert and CEO of telecom industry website Cctime, said: "Though it is unlikely for iPhones to be banned in China, the lawsuit distracts Apple's attention when it is working hard to revive local consumers' appetite for iPhones." Apple's iPhone 8 has so far been greeted with less enthusiasm in China, as most fans are waiting for a better-equipped iPhone X, analysts said. Longtime residents witness change, but say country poised for even more Longtime foreign residents in the Gubei area, one of Shanghai's largest expat communities, said they have witnessed marvelous changes in the district and its local citizens the past few years, changes that might be difficult to find elsewhere. These residents are among the first group of expats to settle into their second homes in Shanghai, as the Gubei area, which is between the city center and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, was formed as the first large-scale international community of high standard in the country in mid-1990s. Michelle Teope of the Philippines said the area, as well as the country at large, has changed dramatically in the 17 years since she arrived. "The country's transformation in economic strength and cultural diversity has, in turn, changed the way I live as well as that of all the other individuals and families," she said. Teope is chairwoman of a volunteer organization formed by expats in the Gubei area and dedicated to raising money for children with congenital heart disease, so they can receive surgery. She said the most obvious change is that the local community shows more enthusiasm for charity. "We have 40 volunteers, and in the past five years we had 10 Chinese joining us for the first time," said Teope, 55. The group, Beacon of Love, has raised enough since 2002 to provide surgeries for 350 children from the Chinese mainland, each costing about 30,000 yuan ($4,550). Sachiko Ozaki shared Teope's feeling. The Japanese housewife, who moved to Shanghai 16 years ago with her husband and 2-year-old son, is a member of a group of Japanese women who hold a charity bazaar and donate the money to schools in impoverished inland regions. "The bazaar first came into being 20 years ago, but it was only in recent years that local residents started to become interested," said Ozaki, 48. "My fellows have a common feeling that Chinese are becoming more and more passionate for charity programs." Teope said how people give also has changed. "Local influential internet companies, such as Tencent and Sina, have set up charity platforms where people can publish verified information of a family in need and internet users can donate money online." Ozaki said the changes she witnessed in Shanghai in the past five years were faster than what she ever found in Tokyo, where she comes from. "Shanghai people are increasingly open-minded to internationalization. Their foreign travels are becoming more frequent and their English skills and fashion taste are getting better," she said. The expats said they looked forward to the upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China to further steer the country's development. "The Belt and Road Initiative, which I understand as a way to share wealth and distribute benefits, and China's high-speed bullet trains will bring China new developments and global influence," Teope said. On Oct 4, during Mid-Autumn Festival, Liu Fuyou cooked his family reunion dinner for the first time using a gas stove and tap water in his new apartment. Liu spent most of his life in a shabby mud-brick hut in Zhaojiawa, a remote mountainous village in Kelan county, Shanxi province. But the 71-year-old farmer and his family, along with five other poverty-stricken families, moved to new apartments on Sept 22. Their dream of leading a new life finally came true as the whole village relocated to Guanghuiyuan New Village, a resettlement site in the county. "The old houses are over. So are those bitter days," he said. Deep in the Lyuliang Mountains, poverty was rife in the village because of the rough terrain, infertile land, labor shortages and a lack of resources. There are nine people in Liu's family and they had 6.7 hectares of farmland to work. From plowing to harvest, everything had to be done by hand. "I carried 50 kilograms of potatoes on my back, which blistered my feet after a few days," he said, likening farming to war, in which they fought against rain in summer and frost and snow in autumn. Extensive cultivation on slopes, however, yielded only poor harvests. "Our family took in less than 7,000 yuan ($1,060) last year. We earned about 500 yuan growing grain. The rest came from government subsidies," said Liu, who lives with his 92-year-old mother. His five children left the village when they married. On June 21, President Xi Jinping visited the village despite the backbreaking road from the provincial capital, where he approved the local government's idea of improving the villagers' livelihoods through relocation after examining all the details about the village and its resettlement. "Are you still able to do farm work? Your children work away from the village. Do they help you out? Do you want to move out?" the president asked Liu's family. Three months after Xi's visit, six families in Zhaojiawa, including Liu's, moved to their 82-square-meter apartments of two bedrooms and a living room. Leaving the land he used to live on, Liu now has been assigned a new job as a sanitation worker with a monthly income of 1,050 yuan. Together with other income like pension insurance, basic living allowances and subsidies for returning farmland to forests, Liu's family now has a total annual income of more than 28,000 yuan, four times what they used to make. "Now we have earned enough money for expenses and no longer need to worry about food and stuff," he said. "Life is so much better than in the past. I can buy all kinds of fruit and vegetables now. Back then, we only ate potatoes all year long." He added, "The CPC has very good policies and cares about our poor people. I believe the 19th CPC National Congress will focus more on shaking off poverty and help us live a better life day by day." Liu said he wishes success for the National Congress. "I hope the National Congress will unveil more policies to alleviate poverty, create more job opportunities for young people and provide sustainable support for relocated families like us. I'm looking forward to seeing the eradication of poverty by 2020. I also wish the urban-rural gap could be narrowed and we will enjoy easier access to education and medical service." Liu began his new job after the National Day holiday, as well as his new life. Leading Group's focus is to deepen reform By Zhang Yunbi | China Daily | Updated: 2017-10-17 07:35 The Central Leading Group for Deepening Overall Reform, which turns 4 in December, has built an effective framework to tackle deep-seated problems and clear the way for greater development of China. Headed by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the group was established on Dec 30, 2013. Since then it has convened 38 meetings and approved more than 300 documents to achieve remarkable progress, observers said. The group's efforts have boosted global confidence in China's lasting, robust growth as it works toward coordinating various departments, removing institutional barriers, reinforcing policy implementation and the Party's supervision over the reform process, experts and diplomats said. China Daily surveyed the frequency of certain words and phrases in official releases of the Leading Group's 38 meetings. The word "reform" was used most often, mentioned more than 1,400 times. "Piloting", "supervision", "innovation" and "responsibility" also were among the top words used. The leading group, aimed at fixing loopholes and tapping greater potential for development, has six affiliated groups working on different areas - the economy and ecology; democracy and the legal system; culture; social areas; building up the Party; and discipline and inspection. The group's first meeting convened in January 2014. Xi has chaired each of the group's meetings and made important remarks to them, official releases show. The meetings were attended by various figures necessary to implement reforms, such as members of the Leading Group as well as key officials of relevant Party and State departments, according to the releases. The group had a packed schedule at each meeting, often with members listening to briefings presented by officials involved in specific tasks. It also analyzes and researches subjects at hand, reviews or approves documents and authorizes pilot projects. A wide spectrum of issues was addressed at almost every gathering. The most recent meeting on Aug 29 reviewed and approved six documents, ranging from agriculture-related funds, compensation for damage to ecology, supervision in village affairs to judicial system buildup. Many landmark policies introduced by the group have shaped and brought greater convenience to the everyday lives of the people. A guideline was approved at the group's 11th meeting in April, 2015, on piloting comprehensive reform at urban public hospitals. A pilot program at county-level hospitals was quickly initiated in October that year. Han Baojiang, director of the economic department of the Party School of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, noted that the Leading Group "takes action like thunder" to cover areas that directly shape the public good, such as medical services, elderly care, food safety and the environment. The reforms undertaken in recent years have addressed harder, deeper issues as the easier ones were tackled before, and "the scope and depth of the reforms are unprecedented", Han noted. The reform measures adopted have won public support as they boost equality and allow the fruits of the country's development to be better enjoyed by the public, Han said. The Party's spearheading reforms have attracted global attention as the world closely watches its potential influence on China's opening-up. Russian Ambassador to China Andrey Denisov said he tries to "follow Chinese newspapers, articles about economic reform", and the Leading Group is "effective", as it offers a "very important agenda". Gearing up paces The Leading Group's influence on reform and its guiding role can be seen by a recent comment made by Minister of Agriculture Han Changfu on Sept 29. Eighteen of the past 38 Leading Group meetings touched on reforms in rural areas, reviewed 24 reform plans regarding agriculture, issued key documents covering topics, such as property rights reform, and have established pillars supporting agricultural reforms, the minister said at a media briefing in Beijing. The agenda of all the meetings, taken as a whole, shows long-term vision and a strong sense of priorities. Analysts observed that annual tasks were laid out at the first meeting of each year, and a review of what was achieved was made at the year-end meeting. Also, the first meeting of the year convened right after each year's plenary session of the CPC Central Committee elaborated on how to effectively carry out the latest reform measures decided by the session. Zhu Lijia, a professor of public management at the Chinese Academy of Governance, said the group's implementation and supervision of reforms has been a major highlight, as "great ideas could be an empty slogan forever without effective implementation". Behind such efforts is China's strengthened awareness of the rule of law, which "allows the reform to develop in a constant, regulated and healthy manner". Zhu noted that the Leading Group introduced its working rules and priorities for its annual missions at its first two meetings before it embarked on specific tasks, showcasing a strong sense of priorities and rule-based governance. When chairing the 31st meeting on Dec 30, Xi summarized that a slew of major reform solutions were issued and realized in the past three years, major breakthroughs were made in reform measures on a range of key areas and sections, and the overall framework for deepening reform was "basically established". Rwandan Ambassador to China Charles Kayonga said "the speed" of the implementation was impressive as policymakers resolve issues through the Leading Group, and a great lesson for other countries is China's "focus on the main objectives". The diplomat highlighted the Party's progress in the area of poverty eradication and combating corruption. The leadership is "focused on resolving problems" as it achieves "mobilizing all national resources" to solve these problems and it is also cooperating with the rest of the world, Kayonga said. Speaking on the next five years, Li Tuo, a professor at the Chinese Academy of Governance, said although future reform measures are yet to be unveiled in detail, restructuring the economy will be further advanced as China has benefited from this already. People could expect more ambitious plans on boosting productivity as the top policymakers have unprecedented vision in this regard, Li said. China's further financial reforms should guard against potential risks and even attacks by international speculators, and more breakthroughs are expected in the internationalization of the renminbi, Li added. Contact the writer at zhangyunbi@chinadaily.com.cn Central Leading Group for Deepening Overall Reform The following are based on official releases regarding the group Head: Xi Jinping Deputy heads: Li Keqiang Zhang Gaoli Liu Yunshan Established: Dec 30, 2013 Duties: Study and stipulate principles, policies and plans for reform Enact nationwide reforms Overall planning and coordinating of reform measures Guide, promote and supervise implementation of reforms Special focus covered by six affiliated groups: Economy and ecology Democracy and legal system Culture Social areas Building up the Party Discipline and inspection Aspects of the meetings: Xi gives an address Briefings presented Review Approvals Giving green light to piloting plans Analyzing and researching The group has convened 38 times. What they say Andrey Denisov, Russian ambassador to China China plays a very important role in global economic development and its contribution to the progress of our economy is huge, so that's why countries all over the world are following tentatively the development of China's reforms. Charles Kayonga, Rwandan ambassador to China Focus on the main objectives, I think, is the most important thing we can learn from the Chinese experience. ... We can see what has happened in poverty eradication and combating corruption. Masood Khalid, Pakistani ambassador to China I have been here for four and a half years, and I've seen myself how China has advanced and progressed, ... so adjustments and reforms are a continuous process, and I look forward to more progress by China. Bakhtiyor Saidov, Uzbek ambassador to China Our country has paid a great deal of attention to China's development in various areas such as the economy and industry, as well as how China will implement its goals. We believe that the policies adopted by China are conducive to, and will improve, the living standards of the people. Nicholas Rosellini, UN resident coordinator in China On many fronts, China is progressing and contributing very much to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (spearheaded by the UN). China is a very constructive global player. (China Daily 10/17/2017 page1) Li Yuanmin said there is no secret to being a village Party chief trusted by the 3,905 residents of Gaimai. "All you need to do is to treat them as your family members and think from their perspective all the time," the 53-year-old said. When she was just a year old, she moved from Shandong province to the village in Yining county, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, with her parents. She grew up in Gaimai, where 90 percent of the villagers are farmers from such ethnic groups as Uygur and Hui, and she speaks the Uygur language fluently. The villagers gave her a Uygur name, Jemila, which means beauty. Li said she doesn't think she is a beauty. Instead, she said she is a tough woman with a bit of a temper when it comes to village affairs. "Unlike the former Party chiefs transferred in from other places, I am a local, so I know the local ways of handling things. Also, the villagers know that I am here to stay." In February 2012, Li became the village's Party chief and head of the village committee. The announcement was made in a room packed with local people. "They all stood up and cheered for me. It was the moment I decided to make changes and help the villagers live a better life," said Li, who previously worked as a livestock breeder. On the same night, she noticed some village officials were drinking and playing cards in the village committee office. She smashed the bottles and warned them of disciplinary action. Virtually the entire village learned about what Li did the next morning and knew changes were coming. "I didn't do that for show. I just couldn't stand village officials who get slack at work because those officials can never unite the villagers. I won't have them on my team," she said. Li then decided to encourage young people in the village, especially those who had just graduated from universities, to get involved in the management of local affairs and offer innovative ideas to help speed up poverty alleviation in the poor area. With help from Li's new team, the villagers' average annual income nearly doubled to 12,000 yuan ($1,820) in 2016 from 6,500 in 2010. She also made all the village committee's work transparent by listing their actions on a notice board. "The villagers now feel free to talk to me anytime if they are not happy about a committee decision. I am only their servant, and the power is in their hands," Li said. "The job of village Party chiefs is so important because the implementation of all central government policies depends on us. We are also the Party officials the villagers meet and talk to everyday," Li said. Although Li is in Beijing to attend the 19th CPC National Congress as a member of the Xinjiang delegation, she still keeps track of construction on a new road that villagers desperately need. "I promised the villagers that the new road will be completed by the end of this year and I cannot let them down," she said. China's achievements in technology, poverty relief, education and in the military sphere impressed foreign reporters who visited an exhibition at the Beijing Exhibition Hall on Monday. The exhibition, Five Years of Sheer Endeavor, which features 10 themed zones, was viewed by a group of reporters from Africa, Latin America and other parts of Asia who are in the Chinese capital to report on the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. "It's an impressive exhibition that shows the progress of China during the past five years in technology, economy and politics," said Rafael Quintero, a reporter at El Tiempo media in Colombia. China has become an important economy in the world, so what happens here affects the world, he said. Latin America should stay close to China and understand the country, he said, adding that it's important for journalists to tell Colombia what China is really like. Akash Ravi Samaroo, a reporter from CNC3 news, part of Guardian Media in Trinidad and Tobago, said he was impressed by government initiatives to make sure China's urbanization and development benefit all sectors of society. Gokhun Gocmen, a reporter from Turkey's Aydinlik news organization, said the past five years have been remarkable for China. "It's good to witness China's progress in the past five years, especially in education and the military," he said, adding that employment opportunities are growing day by day. China is becoming more popular on the global stage and President Xi Jinping is well-known around the world, he said. Gocmen said the Belt and Road Initiative is important not just for China, but also the world. He said he is looking forward to China's further development in the five years after the congress. Zhou Jin contributed to this story. Huang Kunming (center), executive deputy head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, leads a group of officials in a toast to welcome Chinese and foreign journalists who will be covering the 19th CPC National Congress at a reception on Monday in Beijing. Feng Yongbin / China Daily They'll cover the National Congress from fresh angles A total of 1,818 overseas journalists, including correspondents from the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions and Taiwan, have registered to cover the upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. That is 6.7 percent more than those who covered the 18th CPC National Congress five years ago, Hu Xiaohan, director of the congress's press center, said at a media reception attended by more than 500 overseas journalists on Monday. Hu said the foreign journalists come from 134 countries, about 20 percent more than in 2012. For the first time, the press center opened an official WeChat account, which provides online information for journalists about the agendas, notices and other items of interest. The center first developed a registration system for media applications, accepting those from foreign media and from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. "Everybody is waiting for what the congress is to come out with," said Kajubi Mukajanga, executive secretary of the Media Council of Tanzania. He attended a forum on the Belt and Road Initiative with media organizations from several countries earlier in the day. He said he will focus on China's stability, economic growth and poverty alleviation efforts at the congress. Many journalists are looking at China's endeavors in areas like poverty relief. Mukajanga said China's poverty alleviation is a "truly alternative way of doing things". Bipul Pokhrel, vice-president of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, said media can work with the government to enhance poverty alleviation. "Media can support the government. It's possible to create change for good. That's a great message from China to us," he said. Aly Diouf, a journalist from Senegal, said he is impressed with anti-desertification steps being taken in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region. "At every step, there are efforts - the national, provincial, municipal and district levels. Things are being done to enable people to leave poverty and live with dignity," Diouf said. "The congress allows us, as African journalists, to experience China in our own way. We Africans see there are positive things here in the Chinese (system)." Chinese dentist Zhang Qingbin examines a local resident at the sino-Congo Friendship Hospital in Brazzaville. [Photo by Wang Zhao/Xinhua] President Xi Jinping's maiden foreign trip to Africa assured people that China will unswervingly follow the path of peaceful development and cherish its traditional friendship with the continent, analysts said. Xi visited the Republic of Congo on March 30, 2013, and sent a clear message to the international community that China and Africa are a "community of shared destiny" and will forever be reliable friends. During his visit, Xi said China will train various personnel for African nations, enhance technological transfers, share more experiences, and attach more importance to Sino-African cultural exchanges. The trip helped enhance friendships with emerging African countries and signaled that Sino-African cooperation was becoming more comprehensive, analysts said. "Sino-African relations have become more practical, boosted by the visit," Dong Manyuan, deputy director of the China Institute of International Studies, said at the time. "More aid projects in Africa backed by China are about improving livelihoods." Dong added that the country is seeking to help Africa create sustainability by boosting employment and increasing incomes. "Sino-African cooperation is distinct from the aid provided by some Western nations," Xi said in 2013. "China respects the development paths and political systems that are suitable and chosen by African countries, whereas the aid offered by the West often comes with political conditions." Xi's visit to Brazzaville - the first by a Chinese head of state since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1964 - injected new impetus into bilateral trade, which was worth $5.87 billion in 2013 compared with $290 million in 2002. China is now the nation's No 1 trading partner. The two sides also signed 11 cooperation agreements on preferential loans, interest-free loans and non-reimbursable assistance, providing financing for projects in the Republic of Congo. Chinese companies operating in the African country also won contracts to build a hydropower station, power transmission and transformation facilities, roads, ports, homes, hospitals, schools, public buildings and a stadium. Cutting ribbons Xi also joined Denis Sassou Nguesso, the Congolese president, in cutting the ribbon to open the Sino-Congo Friendship Hospital. "It was a historic moment," said Martine Beatrice Ponggui, the hospital's president. "It was a great privilege for us that the two presidents came to our hospital. The scene will stay long in the memory." She said the Congolese people have every reason to believe that through cooperation with China they will gain access to better medical services. Zhou Enyin, who was technology director for China State Construction Engineering Corp at the time, was also at the ceremony. "It was my first time to experience such a grand occasion," he said. "Everyone was excited." After leaving the hospital, Xi visited Ngouabi University and attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its grand library, which was funded and constructed by China. Ngouabi University is the only public university in the Republic of Congo. The library has more than 10,000 books and CDs about China, allowing locals to learn more about Chinese culture. "Xi's presence at the ceremony indicates that education is a key issue for developing countries and that China wants to support education in our country," said Bruno Itoua, minister of higher education. BEIJING - All 38 delegations to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) had arrived in Beijing by Monday evening for the upcoming political event. The delegations represent the Chinese mainland's 31 provincial regions, departments of the CPC Central Committee, central government organs, enterprises controlled by the central government, central financial system, the People's Liberation Army, the Armed Police, and CPC members of Taiwan origin. More than 2,200 delegates, chosen from more than 89 million CPC members across the nation, will attend the twice-a-decade congress, scheduled to open Wednesday. The delegates will deliberate an 18th CPC Central Committee report, a CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection work report and an amendment to the CPC Constitution at the congress. The congress is also expected to unveil new CPC leadership and set a blueprint for national development for the next five years and beyond. Tuo Zhen, spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, holds a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Oct 17, 2017. [Photo by Deng Yongan/chinadaily.com.cn] BEIJING - Tuo Zhen, spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, is holding a press conference on Tuesday afternoon at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, briefing the media on the upcoming congress. The credentials of 2,280 delegates to the 19th CPC National Congress have been approved, Tuo told reporters. The CPC will amend its constitution at the national congress to represent new governance concepts, thoughts and strategies proposed by the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core, Tuo said. The amendment will include key theories and strategic thoughts presented by a report to be delivered at the congress, according to Tuo. A preparatory meeting of the national congress has appointed Liu Yunshan as secretary-general of the congress, Tuo said, adding that t he agenda for the congress has been set at the preparatory meeting. The five-yearly event will open at 9:00 am Wednesday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, and conclude on Oct 24, the spokesman said at the press conference. The press conference started at around 4:30 pm. China not to change policy of utilizing foreign investment: spokesman BEIJING - China's policy of foreign investment utilization will remain unchanged, a spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China said Tuesday. A total of 2,280 delegates from all walks of life will attend the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, which starts on Wednesday. The Party elected 2,287 delegates before the Congress, but seven of them did not pass the final review by the delegate credential committee. "The qualification of the 2,280 delegates is effective," Tuo Zhen, Congress spokesman, said on Tuesday. The qualified delegates are from various sectors, including the economy, education, health and justice, and are from all levels of society. For example, 33.8 percent of the delegates come from grassroots departments, 3.3-percentage points higher than the figure of the last Congress, according to Tuo. Of the delegates, 8.7 percent are workers; 3.8 percent are farmers and 12.4 percent are technicians, he said. Meanwhile, the number of female delegates and those from ethnic groups have been respectively going up, and more than 70 percent of the total delegates are younger than 55, he said. In addition, a majority of the delegates joined the Party after the country's reform and opening-up, he added. China will stick to the opening-up policy and further expand market access to foreign investors, the spokesman of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China said on Tuesday. Tuo Zhen, the spokesman, said opening up is a basic State policy. He cited President Xi Jinping, saying that China will not make changes to the basic policy, and will not make changes to the commitments to provide better services to foreign investors. The State Council, the cabinet, released documents in January and August, and local governments have introduced measures to attract more foreign capital, according to Tuo. He said there will be renewed efforts to attract foreign investors in the future as the opening up and reform continues. "The goal is to see a win-win result and common development," he said. Tuo Zhen, spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, said on Tuesday that reducing debt and stabilizing economic growth are not contradictory policies. "In the long run, deleveraging will help remove hidden risks that will affect steady and healthy economic development and strengthen medium- and long-term economic resilience," Tuo said. China has created a good and steady macroeconomic environment for deleveraging and economic growth by holding onto the fundamental principle of making progress while maintaining stability, continuing to implement active fiscal policy and prudential monetary policy, sticking to supply-side structural reforms and moderately expanding total demands, he said. "We insisted on taking multiple measures to deleverage to ensure that deleveraging will not make a negative impact on economic growth," Tuo said. "At the current stage, deleveraging has made initial progress without bringing obvious austerity effects on the economy," he added. Tuo Zhen (second from left), spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, holds a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Oct 17, 2017. [Photo by Edmond Tang/China Daily] BEIJING - Tuo Zhen, spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, held a press conference on Tuesday afternoon at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, briefing the media on the upcoming congress. Here are highlights of Tuo's remarks at the press conference. 2,280 delegates will attend Congress A total of 2,280 delegates from all walks of life will attend the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, which starts on Wednesday. The Party elected 2,287 delegates before the Congress, but seven of them did not pass the final review by the delegate credential committee. "The qualification of the 2,280 delegates is effective," Tuo said. The qualified delegates are from various sectors, including the economy, education, health and justice, and are from all levels of society. For example, 33.8 percent of the delegates come from grassroots departments, 3.3-percentage points higher than the figure of the last Congress, according to Tuo. (Read more) China will stick to opening up China will stick to the opening-up policy and further expand market access to foreign investors, Tuo said. Tuo said opening up is a basic State policy. He cited President Xi Jinping, saying that China will not make changes to the basic policy, and will not make changes to the commitments to provide better services to foreign investors. The State Council, the cabinet, released documents in January and August, and local governments have introduced measures to attract more foreign capital, according to Tuo. He said there will be renewed efforts to attract foreign investors in the future as the opening up and reform continues. "The goal is to see a win-win result and common development," he said. (Read more) The purpose of China advocating international cooperation on production capacity is not transferring backward capacity, Tuo Zhen, spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, said on Tuesday. "Backward and surplus capacity has no market. Only high-quality capacity can win the competition," he said when asked to respond to doubts over the Belt and Road Initiative. According to Tuo, China advocates international cooperation on production capacity, which is aimed at leveraging the comparative strength of all countries, serving the development needs of the countries, and building a more balanced and inclusive global industrial chain. "It is not for the purpose of transferring backward capacity," he said, noting that in a highly open international market, Chinese companies face fierce competition from local companies and international colleagues. The spokesman also said that investment cooperation by Chinese companies has positively contributed to the host countries in helping them improve industrial standards and achieve economic and social development. Between 2013 and 2016, Chinese companies invested about $560 billion overseas, paid over $100 billion of various kinds of taxes to the host countries, and created millions of jobs for the local communities. "The investment by Chinese companies has helped the destination countries transform their resources and labor advantages into strength for development," he said. "And investment by Chinese companies is welcomed by host countries." "We are confident that all parties can work together to seize the favorable opportunity and build the Belt and Road into a road of peace, prosperity, openness, innovation and civilization," Tuo added. Contact the writer at mojingxi@chinadaily.com.cn Spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China Tuo Zhen (center) answers questions from journalists at a news conference at the Great Hall of the People on Tuesday in Beijing. LIU JINHAI / XINHUA Conference: Political reforms have been historic, spokesman reports China will stick to the policy of opening-up and further expand market access to foreign investors, the spokesman of the Communist Party of China's 19th National Congress said on Tuesday. Spokesman Tuo Zhen said at a news conference for the congress that opening-up is a basic national policy and China's attitude of "opening to the world" is clear. Citing the pledge of CPC Central Committee General Secretary and Chinese President Xi Jinping to be consistent in the country's policy of protecting the legal interests of foreign investors in China, Tuo said that there will be renewed efforts to attract foreign investors in the future as opening-up and reform continues. "The goal is to see a win-win result and common development," he said. The State Council, China's Cabinet, released documents in January and August to introduce measures to attract more foreign capital. China is strengthening efforts in creating a fair and favorable business environment for all parties and in better protecting companies' "legitimate rights and interests", he said. Noting that the Made in China 2025 strategy, a blueprint for upgrading the country's manufacturing sector, treats domestic and foreign companies equally, Tuo said that a basic rule of the strategy is to ensure market-based principles a response to concerns the strategy appears partial to Chinese companies. Instead, concerns need to be directed at restrictions imposed by developed countries on their exports to China, the spokesman said. In responding to doubts about the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, Tuo said that the purpose of China's international cooperation in production capacity is not transferring backward capacity, but leveraging the comparative strength of all countries, serving the development needs of countries, and building a more balanced and inclusive global industrial chain. "Backward and surplus capacity has no market. Only high-quality capacity can win the competition," he said. Between 2013 and 2016, Chinese companies invested about $560 billion overseas, paid over $100 billion in various kinds of taxes to host countries, and created millions of jobs for local communities. "The investment by Chinese companies has helped the destination countries transform their resources and labor advantages into strength for development," he said, adding that investment by Chinese companies is welcomed by host countries. The spokesman said China has made major and historic achievements in political system reform, which have provided an important guarantee for deepening reform in other fields and created better conditions for economic and social development. China will not copy and replicate the models of other countries in political system reform, the spokesman said. When asked about credit issues, Tuo said deleveraging is not in conflict with stabilizing economic growth. "In the long run, deleveraging will help remove hidden risks that will affect steady and healthy economic development and strengthen medium- and long-term economic resilience," he said. Jiang Xueqing contributed to this story. Contact the writers at anbaijie@chinadaily.com.cn The presidium of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China holds its first meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Tuesday. CPC Central Committee General Secretary Xi Jinping was present and delivered a speech. JU PENG / XINHUA Group shows a big increase in frontline workers, ethnic minorities and women The election of delegates to the Party's 19th National Congress was carried out with strict examination of the qualifications of candidates and enforcement of discipline, according to a report that was passed on Tuesday by the presidium led by General Secretary Xi Jinping. The report, approved at the presidium's first meeting, confirmed the credentials of 2,280 delegates from the 2,287 delegates previously elected by the Communist Party of China from around the nation. Xi attended the meeting and gave an important speech. The 243-member presidential team was elected at the preparatory meeting of the congress held at the Great Hall of the People on Tuesday afternoon. Xi presided over the preparatory meeting, which was attended by 2,307 Party delegates and invited delegates. A 22-member delegate credentials committee was approved at the meeting. A presidium of the congress consisting of 243 members was also approved. Attendees also approved the organizational setup and tasks of the secretariat of the congress. The report said the CPC Central Committee, with Xi as the core, has attached great importance to the election of the delegates to the 19th National Congress. Since November, the Party's organizations have advanced election work under the rules of the Party's Constitution, it said. During the election process, the Party organizations have widely heard the voices of grassroots agencies and Party members, made political integrity the top priority, and collected opinions from disciplinary authorities, the report said. The CPC National Congress, usually held every five years, unveils new leadership and sets a blueprint for national development for the next five years and beyond. Some 99.2 percent of the country's 89 million-plus Party members and all the primary-level Party organizations took part in the election, according to the Party. The report said the delegates all meet the criteria laid down by the CPC Central Committee. With balanced composition and distribution, the proportion of delegates from the front lines of work has increased outstandingly, and the numbers of women and ethnic delegates both increased, it said. During the seven-day congress that starts on Wednesday, the delegates will hear and examine a report submitted by the 18th CPC Central Committee, examine a work report of the 18th Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, deliberate and adopt an amendment to the Party's Constitution, and elect the Party's 19th Central Committee and its 19th Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. Journalists listen to a presentation of the progress being made on Beijing's new airport, south of the city's center, on Monday. The roof and glass are being installed on the main terminal, and trial operations are to begin in October 2019. [Xing Yi/China Daily] The roof and glass at the main terminal building of Beijing's new airport are being installed, with crews attempting to seal off the building from weather by the end of this year or soon thereafter, the airport's spokesman said on Monday. "The internal decorations and installation of electromechanical equipment will begin as soon as the terminal building has been sealed," said Zhu Wenxin, the airport's spokesman. As of the end of September, more than 90 percent of the earthwork had been completed, and 95 percent of supporting projects, such as bridge foundations, were finished, he said. The new airport, whose construction began at the end of 2014, is to begin trial operations in October 2019. "Once completed, it will be Beijing's second international aviation hub, serving the capital and nearby residents along with Beijing Capital International Airport," he said. The new facility is located between Beijing's Daxing district and Langfang, Hebei province. It's 46 kilometers from Tian'anmen Square, 67 km from the capital airport and 85 km from Tianjin Binhai International Airport. It will be accessible via public transportation, including high-speed rail, intercity railway, subway and freeway. It is also designed to be passenger-friendly, with the farthest boarding gate 600 meters from the center of the terminalabout an 8 minute walk. By 2025 it's expected the airport will handle 72 million passenger trips, 620,000 departures and arrivals, and 2 million metric tons of cargo and mail annually. The long-term goal is 100 million passenger trips and 4 million metric tons of cargo and mail. Beijing Capital, the busiest airport in China, handled more than 90 million passenger trips last year, but demand exceeds the airport's design capacity. Passenger throughput was 94.4 million in 2016, though the facility was designed for 82 million, said Han Zhiliang, president of the airport, at a conference in September. Feng Zhenglin, head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, said the country aims to build a world-class multiple airport system to better serve major metropolitan centers. Airports in Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei, for example, are positioned to serve the diverse needs of the cluster, Feng said. A model of Haiyi1000 is displayed at a cross-Straits trade fair in June. Zheng Shuai/China Daily An underwater glider developed by Chinese scientists has set records for the country, working continuously for the longest time and completing the longest journey in a single mission. Haiyi1000, developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Shenyang Institute of Automation, was recently plucked out of the South China Sea after completing its underwater mission to collect ocean data on a journey of 1,884 kilometers over 91 days. The new endurance mark doubled past Chinese gliders and makes China the only country besides the United States with the ability to conduct ocean monitoring and surveillance lasting more than three months in a single mission, according to a report by China Central Television on Sunday. The successful mission of Haiyi1000 suggests that China can create a new-generation network for monitoring the ocean's environment, the report said. The glider was launched in the northeastern South China Sea by a scientific research vessel on July 14. After completing missions with 11 other gliders, it alone remained in the water to provide researchers with a real-world endurance test. During the 91 days, the glider successfully coped with treacherous conditions brought by five typhoons, proving its reliability and stability, the report said. Yu Jiancheng, a researcher at the institute, which is in Shenyang, Liaoning province, told CCTV that underwater gliders differ from traditional underwater robots in that they do not have propellers. Instead, they are equipped with devices that function similar to an air bladder in some species of fish, which helps them rise or sink and enables them to move forward with less energy consumption. Another underwater glider, Haiyi, also developed by the Shenyang Institute, reached a depth of 6,329 meters in March, breaking the previous record of 6,003 meters held by a US device, the CAS said in March. With its ability to reach 6,000 meters, Haiyi allows Chinese scientists to explore 97 percent of the maritime space, the science academy said. wangxiaodong@chinadaily.com.cn Medical bills will be paid near place of employment for injuries or sickness Overwork can lead to ill health, injuries and loss of income. The financial burden is uppermost in the minds of migrant workers regarding illness and injuries that could result in wages being cut. A vast number of people in this group move from one city to another, working under the harshest conditions at construction sites or other heavy-labor industries. As long as their medical payments cannot be reimbursed off site when going to hospital, they will be reluctant to have treatment, even when necessary. Instead, they will leave medical treatment for when they return home. Liu Hui is one example of this. The 36-year-old construction worker from East China's Anhui province broke a bone in his hand when operating a mixer machine six months ago. But facing medical bills, he decided to treat the pain after returning home during the Spring Festival in February. The new-type rural cooperative medical care he has joined will relieve his financial burdens when he gets treated then. But things are expected to change as the central government will make further endeavors to accelerate the process of off-site reimbursement of medical charges. More than 100 million migrant workers are estimated to benefit from the central government's campaign to expand off-site medical settlement, a move that helps get their medical bills reimbursed more easily when they go to hospital in nonnative places. This was part of the decisions made at a State Council executive meeting, which was presided over by Premier Li Keqiang on Oct 9, to further integrate reimbursement systems and facilitate patients nationwide. All provinces and regions had been integrated into the nation's system of off-site medical settlement by the end of September, according to a statement released after the meeting. The upgraded network covers all participants for basic medical insurance in urban areas and the new-type rural cooperative medical care for rural residents. More than 6,000 designated hospitals are connected under the program, however, thousands of others have still to be linked. Each province, autonomous region or municipality previously had an independent system for medical reimbursement, making it extremely difficult for people working in other places to enjoy their legitimate rights for reimbursement. It's good news for Liu, because the new reimbursement will get rid of his financial worries and apprehension as he will not lose any compensation he is supposed to get under the rural cooperative medical care system. "For decades, migrant workers like me had been dealing with unexpected injuries under separated medical care systems. Not just me, many of my fellow workers, will be happy to see the policy when it takes effect," Liu added. For Xiang Chunhua, a senior editor at the China Social Security magazine, the off-site settlement has eased complex procedures for medical reimbursement and will improve the healthcare for participants. Last year, problems arising in the separated reimbursement systems topped the 10 questions raised by netizens to the premier in an online survey before the annual gathering of the National People's Congress. When meeting with the media in March 2016, Li promised to solve the problem within two years. The State Council executive meeting was the latest follow-up of what the premier promised in his Government Work Report this March. Li said at the meeting that most migrant workers go to grassroots hospitals when they get sick or injured at work. They would not go to see doctor at hospitals not integrated with the national system. "We promote the direct settlement and must get the 100 million migrant workers to enjoy the benefits from the policy," the premier said. Zhai Shaoguo, deputy director of the social security department at Northwest University in Xi'an in Shaanxi province, said that China's fast urbanization has made it a practical need to reimburse medical payments in other cities as an increasingly large number of people are moving from one place to another. As urbanization proceeds, more migrant workers will enter cities. Off-site settlement will not only ensure their health and social fairness, but will also improve the competitiveness of enterprises they are working for, the premier added. huyongqi@chinadaily.com.cn Chinese police hand over a suspected child abusera United States citizento US law enforcement officials at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on Monday. Zheng Shuai/China Daily A suspected child sexual abuser from the United States who fled to China was sent back by Chinese police on Monday, the Ministry of Public Security said. According to the ministry, the police handed the suspect over to US law enforcement officials at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on Monday afternoon, where officers from the US Justice Department took him into custody to escort him back to the US to face trial. The suspect, whose name was withheld, is a US citizen and came to China on a tourist visa, the authorities said. The repatriation is the latest example of cooperation between the two countries to hunt down fugitives since the first round of dialogue on law enforcement and network security earlier this month, according to a statement provided by the Chinese authorities. Between July 2009 and August 2012, the suspect was accused of sexually assaulting girls between 6 to 12 years of age in the US. In June last year, after the FBI launched an investigation, the suspect fled. In June this year, Interpol issued a red notice calling for his apprehension. According to the ministry, the man went to Shanghai in May. The US authorities shared evidence with their Chinese counterparts and asked them to investigate. Chinese police located the suspect and arrested him in June. According to the ministry, China responded promptly to the US request, reflecting China's resolve to deny safe haven to fugitives from other countries. The ministry said China and the US will continue to enhance communication and mutual trust and deepen judicial cooperation, such as the sharing of intelligence, to fight transnational crimes. zhangyan1@chinadaily.com.cn BEIJING -- President Xi Jinping has appointed two new ambassadors, upon approval by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, according to a statement by the national legislature Monday. Zhang Ming was appointed ambassador to the European Union (EU), replacing Yang Yanyi. He Yanjun was appointed ambassador to Comoros, replacing Xiao Ming. Before she assumed control of a bankrupt State-owned dairy farm, Wang Jin worked as an accountant at a glass manufacturer in Huaibei city in the eastern province of Anhui. In addition to all the farm's debts and poor management systems, she inherited 93 employees. Although they were skeptical at first, most of the original members of staff have witnessed how the company has become one of the largest dairy producers in the province, with sales revenue of more than 600 million yuan ($91 million) last year. In the early 2000s, dozens of State-owned dairy farms in the province were sold to private businesses. Wang's older brother, who was born in Huaibei, was noted running a profitable engineering company in Beijing, so the Huaibei government asked him to take over the farm. Although he paid more than 4 million yuan to acquire the farm's fixed assets, excluding the cattle, Wang's brother had no interest in running it so he left the business entirely in her hands. The Wangs pay 150,000 yuan a year to rent the farm's 134-strong dairy herd, and yields have increased greatly compared with the days when each cow produced just 2 metric tons of milk annually as a result of poor management. On Jan 1, 2003, Wang, who was then age 31, formally become general manager of the company, called the Huaibei Xiqiang Dairy Group, which is a subsidiary of her brother's company. She has tried a number of ways to expand, including buying animals from other parts of the province and offering interest-free loans to local farmers, which means they can repay the cash with milk. By the end of last year, Xiqiang, headquartered in the city's Xiangshan district, had expanded its herd to more than 5,000, and each cow now produces more than 8 tons of milk annually. "Many people thought it was much better to work for a State-owned company than a private one, even though they were paid less than 300 yuan a month," Wang said. Some of the employees objected to having a female boss, and three quit because they didn't want to work for a private company. However, the remainder chose to wait and see how things developed. Wang quickly raised their salaries to an average of 700 yuan a month, and 78 of them are still working for Xiqiang, which has 840 employees. In Wang's first year in control, the company achieved sales revenue of more than 6.7 million yuan. "The employees considered it a great success," she said. Lacking management experience, Wang said she made many decisions based on what her conscience told her to do. She has made March her annual "Month of Product Quality" to remind the employees of an incident that occurred on March 9, 2004. "About 200 kilograms of tap water was accidentally pumped into 4,700 kilograms of fresh milk," she said. Although the workers thought the mistake would hardly affect the quality of the milk, Wang gathered them together and made them watch as she poured the milk into a sewer. "They were shocked at my response and thought it was a great pity to waste the milk", she said. Thanks to Wang's emphasis on quality, Xiqiang not only survived but thrived after a scandal in 2008, when thousands of infants fell sick after ingesting melamine-tainted infant formula made by Sanlu Group, based in Shijiazhuang, a city in Hebei province. Some companies in Anhui were closed as a result of poor product quality, while others were unable to overcome plummeting sales that resulted from panic on the markets. Just eight of the 38 dairy producers in the province survived. "As the scandal quickly swept across the country, officials from the food security authorities arrived one day and suspended production for an on-the-spot inspection," Wang recalled. The company's milk was confirmed melamine-free, and to illustrate their confidence in the product's quality, some of Huaibei's top officials drank it on television. Summerskill poses at the grill The Lancet in Beijing Oct 15, 2017. [Photo/The grill's Weibo account] The popular Beijing grill "The Lancet", which is named after the famous medical journal, received a special customer on Sunday --- William Summerskill, one of the four senior executive editors of the journal, according to the grill's weibo account. The grill invested by a group of surgeons and graduates from Tsinghua University and Peking University, caught internet attention in early October when it published an article on its WeChat account on September 21 in which it advertised discounts to scholars whose published papers received influential citation indexes such as SCI, SSCI, and CSSCI in the past five years. The article received about 100,000 views within one hour of publishing, according to China Youth Daily. The instant fame caught the attention of both general public and the medical community, including Summerskill. To have a first-hand experience of the grill, Summerskill, who is in China for a medical conference, went for a bite without any fanfare or telling anybody in advance. But as the restaurant was full and there was a long waiting line, one of his two companions, Helena Hui Wang, Asia executive editor of the journal, asked the service staff members to call the founder. Summerskill and his companions ordered 17 yangrouchuan, or lamb kebabs, according to the grill's founder. Summerskill reads the record of the scholars who received discounts for their papers' citations, at the grill The Lancet in Beijing Oct 15, 2017. [Photo/The grill's Weibo account] He also looked at the record of the scholars who received discounts for their papers' citations. He refused the founder's offer for a free meal, saying he couldn't accept that without publishing a paper in the journal. He insisted on making a full payment to show his respect to the young Chinese surgeons who have such innovative and meaningful ideas. He jokingly said that any scholar whose paper is published in The Lancet later can get a congratulation note saying "Free meal at The Lancet". A photo of the key chain with "The Lancet" embossed on it given by Summerskill to the founder.[Photo/The grill's Weibo account] Before leaving the grill, Summerskill gave a key chain with "The Lancet" embossed on it as a gift to the founder. Summerskill's visit generated heated online discussion. A netizen posted, "A 5A-level tourist attraction that a medical student must visit," along with the founder's story on weibo. The grill opened in April and the founders started the business to ease their financial burden, according to earlier reports by China Youth Daily. SHIJIAZHUANG - A total of 110 tombs dating back more than 2,000 years have been discovered in northern China's Hebei province. The tombs were used to bury the remains of children, and archeologists estimate there might be 500 to 700 more such tombs in the surrounding area. The graveyard located near the Fudi city ruins in Huanghua, Hebei, is dated between the Warring States (475-221 BC) period and the reign of Emperor Wu (156-87 BC) in the Han Dynasty. Zhang Baogang, curator of the Huanghua city museum, said the tombs were all of the urn burial type, featuring urns made of pottery. It is the largest such burial site ever found in China. Archeologists started to excavate the tombs and preserve the artifacts in August. "The earthen coffins were buried 3 meters underground. Most of the skulls were well preserved because the squashed earthenware helped squeeze out oxygen," Zhang said. He said archeologists had collected samples of the remains for lab research to determine the gender and age of the people buried. They will also carry out tests on DNA and the children's teeth. Zhang said archeologists were curious why there were so many children buried together. Many were only two to three years old, with others just a few years older. Skull and foot bones were separately arranged in two small pots, with the main body sections put in larger drum-like pots. Zhang said there were composites of sea shell found in the clay earthenware. Huanghua is located on the west coast of the Bohai Sea. People accordingly used local materials for making the urns. He said there were no other burial objects found in the tombs except some silk which decayed quickly after the tombs were opened. The earthenware also decayed with the red ones decaying faster than the black ones. Adults were only found in six of the tombs. Li Jun, an archeologist from Shanxi University, said such a large child burial suggested the children were concentrated for a specific purpose. A Chinese legend says that first emperor Qin Shi Huang sent the explorer Xu Fu to sail east and find the Peng Lai Island to seek immortality. Xu is said to have taken 5,000 children and young workers with him. The Xu Fu legend is shared in China, Korea and Japan, and there are commemorative events held every year for the legendary explorer. In Japan he is worshipped as a deity. Li said the ancient city of Fudi in Huanghua might have been a temporary settlement for Xu Fu's team. He gave three possible reasons for the child deaths -- sacrifice, pandemic plague or exhaustion from hard work. Bai Yunxiang, deputy director of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Institute of Archaeology, said this urn burial type appeared as early as the Neolithic period in China, with the custom spreading to the Korean Peninsula and Japan during the Warring States period. In Japan, there are urn burial sites dating back to the Yayoi Period (300 BC-250 AD) found in Saga prefecture on the island of Kyushu. By Feng Zhiwei in Changsha and Jiang Chenglong in Beijing | chinadaily.com.cn | Updated: 2017-10-17 19:43 Tian Rui has spent almost 25 years helping villagers in Hunan province stay healthy by providing vital primary medical care. The 47-year-old doctor began her career in 1992 after a trip to Mafu village with her boyfriend during the Chinese New Year holiday. While there, a neighbor's child, who suffered vomiting and diarrhea, died due to lack of treatment, as there was no medical clinic nearby. "My boyfriend and I decided to set up a clinic after graduation to provide timely treatment for villagers," she said. The couple spent more than 8,000 yuan ($1,209)on basic medical equipment and drugs, and set up a two-room health center in Mafu, which consists of 10 communities in Baojing county separated by hills without any interconnecting infrastructure. Tian is always on call and travels to villagers' homes as soon as possible, regardless of the weather. She has treated thousands of patients and has won their trust by making countless visits, and offering evening services and free clinics. In 2010, she was appointed director of the Angdong Hospital Project. "There was an old dilapidated house occupying less than 400 square meters, with only four available beds," she said. "We finally managed to rebuild it with financial aid from an NGO in Hong Kong and the local government." The new building was constructed on the same spot and benefits from a unique design based on local Tujia-style architecture, which saved space and brought in lots of natural light. The structure was shortlisted for an international award from the Royal Institute of British Architects last year. Tian thinks health is more important than whether people can afford it. She gives every villager a handbook with her contact details, delivers medical lectures, and provides free health checks. The dedicated doctor has received an award for her work, and was this year elected as a delegate to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, which opens on Wednesday. "I'm doing a meaningful thing, which I love, and I think my life is pretty valuable and perfect," she said. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. License for publishing multimedia online 0108263 Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 The painting is among many such works on show at the National Museum of China that focus on role models. [Photo provided to China Daily] Wang Jiayuan cannot be described as beautiful by any stretch of imagination. But he is portrayed in an ink painting as "one of the most beautiful faces of China" at an ongoing exhibition in Beijing. The 50-year-old has a heavily tanned, rough face because of years spent working as the secretary of the Party branch of Chunfeng village. The village where Wang was raised is tucked away in the remote mountains of southwestern Sichuan province. And the harsh natural environment, especially the karst landscape, saw generations of villagers live in poverty and desolation earlier. In his teens, Wang left his hometown for a better life. He later became a successful businessman. But he returned to Chunfeng in 2003, hoping to change the lives of his fellow villagers. He then led the villagers to build roads, improving their links with the outside world. He also promoted the planting of plum trees to help the villagers boost their incomes. His endeavor to reduce poverty in his village has won him many accolades such as that of a national model worker. Earlier this year, he was approached by Liu Qinghe, a professor of Chinese painting at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. The latter was inspired by Wang's work and wanted to produce a painting depicting the changes Wang had wrought in his village. The work, titled Herald of Chunfeng Village, is now on display at the National Museum of China. It shows Wang chatting with fellow villagers and plum trees blossoming on rocky karst hills in the background. "It is amazing," says Wang. "I'd never have thought that our village could be the subject of a painting and on show at a national museum." The opinions expressed here are those of the writer and don't represent views of China Daily and China Daily website. I met a student from Africa on my first year of study in China. He was majoring in architecture at the time, and after conversations with him, I saw his ardent passion for his field. Living in China for more than 5 years, he showed evidence of how quickly China developed over a short period of time. He used to tell me that he often would take a photo of anempty lot, and would visit the same place a few months later to take another shot. To his constant surprise, the area had already been occupied by towering commercial or apartment buildings. This anecdote stuck with me from that day on, as I realized how lucky I am to witness the many changes that have happened in this vast country. Chinas infrastructure growth is a leading example in the world. But apart from that, my personal observations of China involve Chinas massive contribution to the worlds renewable energy technology. Sure, I was amazed by the convenience of riding a high-speed train to another city, which I neverexperienced in my country. Nonetheless, I was more stunned by a particular view during my train travels. This was when I saw several structures of solar panels built on an enormous field as seen from the windowpane. It might be quite ridiculous or naive to express this, but only then did I realize the real wonder in Chinas efforts to improve the lives of the people and at the same time, fight climate change. As a former associate researcher at a climate change project in my country, this has filled me with awe and pushed me to learn more about Chinas carbon emission reduction struggles, as well as successes. Chinas determination to dominate energy-saving technologies is far from unattainable. In fact, it is very possible that in the years to come, China will have the ability to transform the international landscape for carbon-free societies. A report by the Institute for Energy and Economics found that Chinas foreign investments in renewable energy and supporting technologies are significantly increasing, noting that this dominance is rapidly spreading overseas. China now owns five of the worlds six largest solar-module manufacturing firms, the largest wind-turbine manufacturer, the worlds largest lithium ion manufacturer and the worlds largest electricity utility, according to IEEFAs report. Furthermore, China is actively promoting a gradual shift away from the coal industry in order to implement air clean-up and reduce production of greenhouse gases. I have witnessed Chinas struggles with pollution, which continues to taint its reputation in the world. However, one must not simply judge. With Chinas expanding economic growth, there is more reason to believe this country will be able to support more innovation and technologies to combat climate change. It is quite ironic that some people criticize China for pollution, yet they do not see that China a country with one of the biggest populations of bicycle riders. More so, bicycle users have ramped up through a shared bike system that is very convenient, encouraging more people to use bikes instead of gas-fueled cars. I, myself, have been convinced that electric bikes and cars are a surefire way to reduce pollution that other developing countries must aspire to improve. There is also news that the Chinesegovernment is planning to introduce innovative buses and cars that run on hydrogen fuel. Using this clean technology, vehicles can run on energy created when hydrogen is mixed with oxygen. As a result, the engines of such vehicles do not produce greenhouse gases. I believe China is taking real responsibility, which means it is doing more action than what has been said in papers to fight climate change. There is no denying that China has had abundant carbon emissions in the past, but as a leading nation, China is taking responsibility for saving itself and the world from despair. There is continued hope for the present generation to succeed in advancing renewables and a cleaner environment, and such hope is reflected right in front of me, while looking through the glass windows of a railway train. LI MIN/CHINA DAILY The global artificial intelligence market has experienced explosive growth in recent years, and this game-changing technology is now considered the "next big thing" after the mobile internet. AI has a long development history but recent breakthroughs have led to a new inflection point. Advances in deep learning neural network algorithms, alongside improved computer processing power, and the abundance of big data that serves as valuable training data are all contributing to the rise of the AI industry. China's AI industry has been growing in an exponential manner. According to Tencent Research Institute, the number of AI companies has increased more than tenfold over the past 10 years, from 57 AI companies in 2007 to 592 by June 2017. Remarkably, the number of newly established AI startups in 2015 was equivalent to the total number of AI start-ups from 1999 to 2012. In terms of fundraising, according to The Economist, Chinese AI companies received $2.6 billion investment from 2012 to 2016 while US peers received $17.9 billion over the same period. However, China has been catching up quickly in recent years. The Chinese government has positioned AI as a national strategic priority. China, earlier seen as a technology development laggard, aims to become a world leader in AI to drive its economic transformations with it. In the most recent government policy document outlining the New Generation AI Development Plan, the State Council, the country's Cabinet, has declared an ambitious goal of becoming a world leader in AI innovation with a market size of over 1 trillion yuan ($151.86 billion) by 2030. Policies such as Made in China 2025, the Three-year Guidance for Internet Plus AI plan, and the New Generation AI Development Plan are all top-down initiatives aiming to take the nation's AI technology forward. Furthermore, local provincial and city governments are also offering preferential policies and generous financial incentives to AI start-ups. For example, the city of Tianjin recently set up a 30 billion yuan fund to support the local AI industry. Data is the key to unlocking the potential of AI development. With 751 million internet users and 724 million smartphone users, Chinese are embracing a 24/7 connected lifestyle and adopting all kinds of new digital products and services. Their ubiquitous connectivity has led to tremendous amount of data that can be further monetized. And with the massive amount of training data sets as input, the AI algorithms are continuously self-tuning and improving. Companies are now able to leverage AI-enabled tools to develop a more comprehensive and dynamic understanding of their customers and competitors. This vibrant innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem has also fueled China's AI development. Chinese AI-based patent applications grew 186 percent between 2010 and 2014, a huge increase from the previous five-year period. Also, in the past two years, all the top-performing teams in the ImageNet Large Scale Visual Recognition Challenge, an influential AI computer vision contest, were Chinese, while half the teams were Chinese-based. Meanwhile, Internet giants such as Baidu, Alibaba and Tencent, along with rising startups like Mobvoi, iCarbonX, Megvii and SenseTime, and unicorns like Didi Chuxing and Xiaomi are all investing in or experimenting with AI technology. Baidu is one of the major leaders in AI development in China. It established the Institute of Deep Learning in 2013 and the Silicon Valley AI Lab in 2014. In 2017, Baidu announced a shift in its strategy from mobile-first to AI-first, and recruited Qi Lu, a former executive vice president at Microsoft, as its new COO. In particular, it has launched an open-source platform for autonomous driving solutions, namely Project Apollo, to transform the global research and development landscape of self-driving vehicles. Yet, China's AI industry still faces major challenges. First, China's academia is not doing much in fundamental scientific research, especially in the areas of advanced computer algorithms and computing infrastructure. So far, the majority of groundbreaking research is still being done in the West. Second, AI startups are good at launching new products and features to satisfy unmet market demand. However they primarily rely on business model innovation rather than technology innovation. Third, governments and venture capitalists tend to provide more incentives to commercial applications of technology over fundamental technology research, which takes more time and involves more risks. The success of China's ambitious goal to become a world leader in AI by 2030 will hinge on the nation's innovation capabilities and long-term strategic vision. Could China eventually achieve global leadership in AI? Like everything that is related to business and technology innovations these days, it would be imprudent to count China out. Edward Tse is founder& CEO, Gao Feng Advisory Company, a global strategy and management consulting firm based in China and author of China's Disruptors. Jackie Tang is a consultant with the firm. Photo taken on Sept. 15, 2017 shows the bird's-eye view of Mannashan Village in Bulangshan Town of Menghai County, southwest China's Yunnan Province. A total of 524 people of the Bulang ethnic group live at the village and most of them have built new houses with the help of government under a policy of poverty alleviation. [Photo/Xinhua] At the recent annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, Jim Yong Kim, president of the World Bank, said that China's accomplishment in pulling 800 million people out of poverty was a historic achievement and "one of the great stories in human history". With China as the major contributor, the ratio of people living in extreme poverty in the world has dropped to less than 10 percent from 40 percent, Kim said. The World Bank chief's words are not superficial praise but recognition of what China has succeeded in doing over the past decades. As the world's largest developing country, if China had not substantially reduced its impoverished population, the world would still have a huge number of people living in poverty, and the world's economic development, stability and the international political and economic order would have been under even greater pressure. To lift 800 million people out of poverty in a few decades demonstrates China's progress in its efforts to build a moderately well-off society. Poverty reduction based on offering financial assistance rather than targeted measures aimed at promoting self-development usually sees those who are lifted out of poverty slide back in again. Unlike in the rest of the world, to more effectively facilitate poverty alleviation, China has managed to set up a broad system of targeted support for the people still living in poverty. This includes promoting employment and helping them start their own businesses as well as offering services and support. Despite the different national conditions they face, China's experiences, as suggested by Kim, can offer lessons to other developing countries. - BEIJING YOUTH DAILY Works painted by autistic people are sold via Tencent's charitable platform, Aug 29, 2017. [Photo/IC] SINCE THE CHARITY LAW that encourages online donations came into effect in September last year, online donations have exceeded 2 billion yuan ($303.78 million). Southern Metropolis Daily comments: It is the popularization of smartphones and social media networks since 2010 that has made it possible to donate via online platforms. Before that, it was mainly wealthy entrepreneurs who donated to charitable causes. This has fundamentally changed the landscape of China's charity sector. Just as a senior official from the Ministry of Civil Affairs said at a recent news conference, online donations now account for more than 80 percent of the revenue of certain charity organizations. Another statistic shows how popular online donating is now. People have made more than a billion donations online since September 2016. That would be impossible without modern information technology. Although many online donations involve quite small amounts of money, they add up. However, with the popularity of donating online, the problem of regulation emerges. How to check the donation information released online? How to supervise the charities? The answer is another advantage of online charity programs: transparency. On Sept 4, Charity in China, an information-sharing platform for charity organizations nationwide, was launched. By Tuesday, all the 1,676 online charity programs had published their information on it. On Sept 9, when there were reports about certain accounts falsifying information in a charity activity organized by domestic internet giant Tencent, the organizers checked immediately and found 25,000, or about 1 percent of the deals, were abnormal. The abnormal accounts were frozen for further investigation. It is such strict supervision and regulatory measures that has helped online charitable giving gain the public's trust. A gavel in a court. [Photo/IC] THE SUPREME PEOPLE'S COURT for the first time used video presentations of specific scenarios in a training session for court officers at both the central and local levels. Southern Metropolis Daily commented on Monday: The top judicial organ's training session is part of efforts to fix what is wrong and improve law enforcement. Over a year ago, the Ministry of Public Security also provided similar training to police officers. The tightening of the restrictions on law enforcement personnel using their powers sends the message that the code of conduct for law enforcement personnel is not just to assist the enforcers of the law in carrying out their duties, but also about protecting citizens' legitimate rights. Unlike their counterparts who patrol the streets and track down criminals, the court officers more frequently deal with lawyers, who know well the relevant laws and regulations, and hence have higher expectations of law enforcement. Elaborating on the lines that the court officers must not cross, in particular, could help resolve many judicial disputes. That video records of the law enforcement in the courts will be kept and can be retrieved if need be, which was confirmed by a Supreme People's Court official, will help resolve complaints. Prohibiting discriminatory security checks on lawyers marks a no-less-important attempt to improve justice. It is hoped that better trained court officers will play a constructive role in enforcing the law. Customers buy milk at a supermarket in Nanjing, East China's Jiangsu province. [Photo/VCG] THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND raised its forecast for China's economic growth this year to 6.8 percent on Wednesday. This is the fourth time this year the IMF has raised its forecast for China. Late last month, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development also adjusted upwards its forecast for China's growth this year, raising it from 6.6 percent to 6.8 percent. Beijing News comments: These two organizations' adjustments regarding their forecasts for China's economic growth show their positivity toward the prospects for the world's second-largest economy. Since 2008, China has contributed more than 30 percent on average to the world's economic growth each year. It is remarkable that China has kept such high annual growth since it launched reform and opening-up in the late 1970s, and that it has been able to lift more than 800 million people out of poverty. China's opening-up has also promoted its integration with the world, and in doing so given it a larger say in addressing global challenges. It is noteworthy that China's reforms and economic restructuring over the past five years have laid a solid foundation for resolving the governance, environmental and social problems at home. The development of China's financial sector has also made it a major player in trade and investment. The renminbi is now included in the IMF's Special Drawing Rights basket of currencies, an important step toward a more stable, fairer and more representative multi-currency financial system. The internationalization of the renminbi is expected to gather speed in the foreseeable future. It is thus no wonder that the IMF and OECD have raised their expectations for China's economic performance. The Supreme People's Court and the Ministry of Justice have jointly issued a document launching a program for defense lawyers in all criminal cases to be piloted in eight provinces and municipalities, including Beijing and Shanghai. In the past, defense lawyers have only represented the suspects in about 30 percent of cases, and now the document requires legal representatives for the defense in all cases. And if the defendants don't authorize anyone to act on their behalf, a lawyer will be designated to act on their behalf. The document not only requires guaranteeing all the defendants get such assistance, it also stipulates the rights of defense lawyers, including the right to know, to petition and to conduct questioning, cross-examinations and debate. After the one-year pilot program has been completed, the new regulation is expected to be incorporated in the Lawyers Law, which is under revision, and this may completely upgrade China's criminal defense system. Guoyuan Port to be new engine of Sino-European railway Updated: 2017-10-16 chinadaily.com.cn Liangjiang New Area's Guoyuan Port is expected to become another departure station for the Sino-European railway, local media reported on Oct 13. Guoyuan Port in the southwestern city of Chongqing, regarded as the "golden gateway" to the vast inland area, lies at the head of the Yangtze River, while Shanghai lies at its tail. Liangjiang New Area this year signed a strategic framework agreement with YUXINOU (Chongqing) Logistics Co Ltd to develop Guoyuan Port into a multi-mode transport hub for Sino-Euro trains. A freight truck passes through the Chongqing Guoyuan Port after unloading its cargo. [Photo by Li Wenke/cqnews.net] Singapore's Freight Links Group and Figtree Group plan to invest 200 million yuan ($30.35 million) to build a centralized logistics system at the port by attracting freight forwarding and logistics companies to Chongqing. Xie Jing, head of the free trade department of Liangjiang New Area, said that Guoyuan Port has submitted applications to the central government to set up a multi-mode transport supervision center to improve the port's policy services. Liangjiang New Area's Guoyuan Port is expected to become another departure station on the Sino-Euro railway. [Photo by Li Wenke/cqnews.net] Guoyuan Port is the largest port in Chongqing, which is the largest city on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. The port is planning to increase throughput by promoting intermodal transport and improving trans-shipment efficiency to take advantage of China's "Mother River" and become a major international inland port. Statistics reveal that Guoyuan Port had handled 7.75 million tonnes of cargo by the end of this August with a year-on-year increase of 10 percent, becoming a new engine of turnover growth for Chongqing ports. Chongqing Cuntan Port has transferred parts of its freight throughput to Guoyuan Port, realizing an administrative mode for integrating operations. The effort will promote resource utilization and collaboration in developing local ports. This handout image obtained from the European Southern Observatory on October 16, 2017 is an artists impression showing two tiny but very dense neutron stars at the point at which they merge and explode as a kilonova. [Photo/VCG] CAMBRIDGE, Mass. - Scientists have for the first time detected gravitational waves, the ripples in space and time predicted by Albert Einstein, at the same time as light from the same cosmic event, according to research published on Monday. The waves, caused by the collision of two neutron stars some 130 million years ago, were first detected in August by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatories, known as LIGO, in Washington state and Louisiana as well as at a third detector, named Virgo, in Italy. Two seconds later, observatories across earth and in space detected a burst of light in the form of gamma rays from the same part of the southern sky, which analysis showed was likely to be from the same source. The observations found that gold, platinum and other heavy metals were blown into space by the aftermath of the merger of the stars, confirming that such cataclysmic events are likely the source of these metals. Less than two years have passed since scientists working at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the California Institute of Technology first detected gravitational waves coming off two black holes. The gravitational waves had been predicted by Einstein in 1916, as an outgrowth of his groundbreaking general theory of relativity, which depicted gravity as a distortion of space and time triggered by the presence of matter. Three US scientists who made that discovery were awarded the Nobel prize in physics earlier this month. The findings published on Monday help confirm Einstein's theory, said the researchers. "Imagine that gravitational waves are like thunder," astronomer Philip Cowperthwaite, of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, said in a statement. "We've heard this thunder before, but this is the first time we've also been able to see the lightning." The LIGO instruments work in unison and use lasers to detect remarkably small vibrations from gravitational waves as they pass through the earth. Previously, scientists could only study space by observing electromagnetic waves such as radio waves, visible light, infrared light, X-rays and gamma rays. Those waves encounter interference as they travel across the universe, but gravitational waves do not, meaning they offer a wealth of additional information. The colliding neutron stars were smaller than the black holes that LIGO previously detected. Neutron stars are relatively small, about the size of a city, the compact remains of a larger star that died. The National Science Foundation, an independent agency of the U.S. government, provided about $1.1 billion in funding for the LIGO research over 40 years. Reuters Police at the scene outside Parsons Green Tube station in London where three men have been stabbed, Oct 16, 2017. [Photo/VCG] LONDON - London Ambulance Service said Monday that a man was killed and two other men injured following a stabbing incident outside Parsons Green tube station in southwest London. The attack happened shortly after 7:35 pm BST as the last wave of commuters journeyed home from work. The three victims, all male, were treated at the scene and one has been taken to hospital. A spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Police said, "Officers are responding to an incident at Parsons Green where a number of males have suffered stab injuries." "Police were called at 1937hrs on Monday, Oct 16 to reports of a stabbing outside Parsons Green Tube Station," she said. Police and paramedics are currently at the scene on Parsons Green Lane and both the road and tube station was shut off by officers, police said. What happened at Parsons Green is not being treated as terror-related, London Ambulance Service said. The knife attack comes a month after a bomb exploded at the District Line station during the morning rush hour commute into central London. Despite the homemade bomb's failure to fully detonate on Sept 15, some 30 people were injured in the blast. Police made at least six arrests in connection to the botched bomb plot, ranging between the ages of 17 to 48. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 TOKYO - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sent a ritual offering to the notorious war-linked Yasukuni Shrine on Tuesday on the occasion of the country's annual autumn festival. Although the move will likely draw staunch criticism from neighboring countries, Japanese cross-party lawmakers and some of Abe's former cabinet ministers may visit the controversial shrine during the four-day festival. Abe himself is reportedly to refrain from visiting the notorious shrine during the festival in person in an effort to prevent further damage to Japan's relationship with China and South Korea at a time Japan and the region is facing heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Yasukuni Shrine honors 14 Class-A convicted war criminals among 2.5 million Japanese war dead from WWII and is regarded as a symbol of past Japanese militarism. Visits and ritual offerings made by proxy to the infamous shrine by Japanese leaders and officials have consistently sparked strong criticism and hurts the feelings of China and South Korea and other countries brutalized by Japan during WWII. The Japanese premier last visited the controversial shrine in December 2013, at which time he was strongly condemned by China and South Korea, as well as the United States, who said at the time it was disappointed with Abe's decision to visit the shrine in person. Chinese police hand over a suspected child abusera United States citizento US law enforcement officials at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on Oct 16, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua] A suspected child sexual abuser from the United States who fled to China was sent back by Chinese police on Monday, the Ministry of Public Security said. According to the ministry, the police handed the suspect over to US law enforcement officials at Shanghai Pudong International Airport on Monday afternoon, where officers from the US Justice Department took him into custody to escort him back to the US to face trial. The suspect, whose name was withheld, is a US citizen and came to China on a tourist visa, the authorities said. The repatriation is the latest example of cooperation between the two countries to hunt down fugitives since the first round of dialogue on law enforcement and network security earlier this month, according to a statement provided by the Chinese authorities. Between July 2009 and August 2012, the suspect was accused of sexually assaulting girls between 6 to 12 years of age in the US. In June last year, after the FBI launched an investigation, the suspect fled. In June this year, Interpol issued a red notice calling for his apprehension. The United Kingdom is an important partner in the Belt and Road Initiative, a senior Chinese official said in London on Monday. Zhu Qin, minister and deputy head of mission at China's embassy in the UK, said the Belt and Road Initiative, which seeks to create inclusive global growth through infrastructure connectivity,"has become a new highlight of the China-UK 'golden era' and will continue to be so". Zhu made the remarks at the Royal Institute of International Affairs at Chatham House, where he addressed an audience of academics, financial industry experts, and journalists. He said the two countries should reinforce policy coordination to further strengthen Belt and Road collaboration, and especially increase cooperation in financial services, infrastructure, science and technology, and people-to-people exchanges. Zhu added that the Belt and Road vision offers a timely solution to boost world development. "The Belt and Road is an initiative that focuses on the fundamental issues of development. It aims (to achieve) more inclusive globalization that benefits more people," he said."We want to integrate China's developments with the developments of other countries around the region and this is the benefit of win-win collaboration of China and abroad." Initially proposed by President Xi Jinping in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative seeks to foster economic growth by boosting trade and investment links between Europe, Asia, and Africa. The British government has keenly endorsed the initiative. Chancellor Philip Hammond said at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing in May that "Britain, lying at the western end of the Belt and Road, is a natural partner in this endeavor". The summit was attended by representatives from more than 130 countries and territories, as well as at least 80 international organizations. Last month, the City of London led the establishment of the Belt and Road Investor Alliance in Beijing, which was supported by both the Chinese and British governments. The alliance will lead the development of guidelines for Belt and Road projects, enabling the improved management of environmental risks, and making projects more attractive to investors. Many of the UK's private-sector organizations are already developing products and solutions linked to the Belt and Road vision. For example, London-based ICBC Standard Bank launched two indexes that pull data from 65 countries within the area covered by the Belt and Road Initiative, so transparent and quantifiable information is available. | Image: Kevin Frayer / Getty A Chinese house church pastor, her daughter, and her young grandson have been arrested, weeks after being accused of overstepping the countrys newly tightened religious restrictions. Chinese officials warned Xu Shizhen in August that publicly sharing her faith puts her in violation of the government policy. It wasnt her first run-in with authorities; five years before, her previous church was forcibly seized by officials and given to Chinas official Three-Self Patriotic Movement church, according to ChinaAid. After that, she started Zion Church. By singing, dancing, and preaching in the parks and public spaces of Xianning, Hubei province, Xus ministry broke the new law, which confines most faith activities to the walls of registered churches. Last month, Xu, her daughter Xu Yuqing, and her three-year-old grandson Xu Shouwang were arrested; the two women were transferred to other facilities while the boy was held at the station. Christian advocates in China report that their exact whereabouts remain unknown. Their detention came just two weeks after China toughened up its restrictions on religious activities. The new religion regulations are sweeping in scope and, if fully enforced, could mean major changes for Chinas unregistered church, not only in its worship and meeting practices, but also engagement in areas such as Christian education, media, and interaction with the global church, wrote ChinaSource president Brent Fulton. Yet the nature of these activities and, indeed, of much religious practice throughout China, makes enforcement extremely problematic. It appears enforcement, at least in Xus Xianan district of Xianning, is going to be strict. The regulationswhich include prohibitions against publishing religious materials without approval, accepting donations without approval, or renting space an unregistered churchdont even officially go into effect until February 2018. Other provinces have been coming down especially hard on religious education for children. In Zhejiang provincewhere hundreds of crosses were torn off churches over the past several yearselementary and middle school children werent allowed to attend church or Sunday school this summer. In Wenzhou, a coastal city in Zhejiang province nicknamed Chinas Jerusalem, officials warned more than 100 churches to keep their teens home from summer camps or Sunday schools. North of Zhejiang, officials in Henan province also forbid church summer camps, claiming the hot summer temperatures would be unhealthy for youth. Chinas young Christians drew international attention over the summer when two were killed by ISIS in Pakistan. Meng Li Si, 26, and Li Xinheng, 24, were teaching in a private school in Quetta when they were kidnapped and murdered. Their deaths prompted scrutiny from both China and Pakistan, where interior minister Chaundhry Nisar called for a tightening of the process that issues visas to Chinese nationals. Meng and Li were in Pakistan on business visas, two among the thousands of Chinese sent west to help build infrastructure and trade routes as part of Chinas One Belt, One Road trade push. The initiative has already been identified by Chinas Christianswho want to send out thousands of missionariesas a natural avenue for the gospel. Two-time Nobel Peace Prize Nominee Divulges China's Catastrophic Corruption Contact: ChinaAid.org, 432-689-6985, 432-553-1080, media@chinaaid.org MIDLAND, Texas, Oct. 17, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- Under the watchful eye of Chinese government minders, a tortured human rights lawyer and two-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee secretly penned an incendiary commentary detailing the ruinous nature of the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) rule during 2016. The piece was recently released in English, translated and edited by ChinaAid, the Human Rights Foundation, and Christian Solidarity Worldwide. Written by Gao Zhisheng, a human rights lawyer and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, in March, the report's 14 sections describe the CCP's suppression of political rights, including its insistence on persecuting peaceful religious groups; its strict crackdown on freedom of speech, ideas, and information; its blatant violation of the rights of Tibetan and Uyghur people; and its forced confiscation of private property, amongst other things. Of particular concern is the corruption of China's education system, which Gao says "crystalizes" the intellects of children in order to preserve devotion to the CCP. The report also denounces the CCP's failure to punish policemen who abuse their authority; the hazardous conditionsincluding human traffickingwomen, seniors, and children face due to a lack of respect for their rights; the abuse of laborers' rights; how the government's lack of environmental precautions endangers public health; and medical disasters caused by government-backed doctors. Gao then describes instances of abuse that echo his personal story: the repeated harassment, arrest, and torture of human rights lawyers; the torturous nature of the government's disciplinary system; and the intensifying persecution of dissidents and civil rights activists. In August, officials kidnapped Gao from his home in Shaanxi, and Beijing authorities confirmed on Sept. 7 that he is currently being held by secret security at an undisclosed location within their city. This continues Gao's saga of repeatedly being kidnapped and otherwise forced into police custody after his legal license was revoked in 2005 on account of his human rights work. He was tortured on multiple occasions, including during a 50-day stint in prison in 2007, which is described in his article "Dark Night, Dark Hood and Kidnapping by Dark Mafia." ChinaAid smuggled the piece out of China and translated it into English. Gao was placed under government surveillance in his home on Aug. 7, 2014, following his release from a three-year prison sentence for a falsified parole violation. He then secretly wrote a book entitled Unwavering Convictions (pictured), in which he chronicles his torture and forecasts the hopes he has for China's future. After successfully sneaking the book out of the country, ChinaAid partnered with the Taiwan Association for China Human Rights to make it available in Taiwan and Hong Kong and also secured a publication deal with The American Bar Association and the Carolina Academic Press for its English release. A copy of the translated text can be purchased at the Carolina Academic Press's website. Fu said, "The Gao report further validates the findings of the international community, which indicate that the overall situation on human rights, rule of law, and religious freedom in China has reached its worst point since the end of Chairman Mao's Cultural Revolution. Gao Zhisheng vanished again and has been under the authorities' watch for more than two months. The Chinese government should give a full account for what is happening to him and disclose his whereabouts without delay. We urge President Trump to speak to Chinese leaders about this deteriorating human rights situation and raise the case of Gao and other prisoners of conscience when he visits China in early November." ChinaAid, the Human Rights Foundation, and Christian Solidarity Worldwide, jointly released the report in hopes that it will illuminate the corrupt nature of the CCP and improve human rights and religious freedom conditions across China. Judicial Watch: State Department Reveals 2,800 Huma Abedin Government Documents on Weiner's Laptop Clinton Email Federal Court Hearing Thursday, October 19 Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5172 WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch revealed today that the U.S. Department of State Department admits it received 2,800 Huma Abedin work-related documents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that were found on her estranged husband Anthony Weiner's personal laptop. Abedin was former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's deputy chief of staff. Weiner is a disgraced former congressman and New York mayoral candidate who recently plead guilty to transferring obscene material to a minor. Abedin kept a non-State.gov email account that she used repeatedly for government business on Hillary Clinton's notorious email server(s). The revelation was produced in a May 5, 2015, lawsuit Judicial Watch filed against the State Department (Judicial Watch, Inc. v. U.S. Department of State (No. 1:15-cv-00684)). Judicial Watch sued after the State failed to respond to a March 18, 2015, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request seeking: "All emails of official State Department business received or sent by former Deputy Chief of Staff Huma Abedin from January 1, 2009 through February 1, 2013 using a non-'state.gov' email address." In accordance with a court ordered production of documents, the State Department's court filing states: "The State Department has identified approximately 2,800 work-related documents among the documents provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation." By December 31, 2017, the State Department expects to complete its review and production of the FBI records. The government suggests some of the material may be "duplicative" of other records. "This is a disturbing development. Our experience with Abedin's emails suggest these Weiner laptop documents will include classified and other sensitive materials," said Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton. "When will the Justice Department do a serious investigation of Hillary Clinton's and Huma Abedin's obvious violations of law?" Judicial Watch previously released 20 productions of documents in this case that show examples of mishandling of classified information and instances of pay to play between the Clinton State Department and the Clinton Foundation. Also, at least 627 emails were not part of the 55,000 pages of emails that Clinton turned over, and further contradict a statement by Clinton that, "as far as she knew," all of her government emails had been turned over to department. A hearing will be heard in a related case: Date: Thursday, October 19 Time: 10:30 am Location: Courtroom 19 U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia 333 Constitution Ave NW Washington, DC 20001 The State Department is processing 100,000 emails Clinton failed to disclose when she served as Secretary of State, some of which were emails sent by Abedin that were found on Weiner's laptop. Clinton attempted to delete 33,000 emails from her non-government server. The State Department was ordered to produce documents to Judicial Watch, and has been processing only 500 pages per month of emails uncovered by the FBI in its investigation into Clinton's non-government email system. MORE: www.judicialwatch.org/press-room/press-releases/judicial-watch-state-department-reveals-2800-huma-abedin-government-documents-weiners-laptop/ home World Tortured missionary begs Trump not to go to war with North Korea A Korean-American missionary has begged U.S. President Donald Trump not to go to war with North Korea as it could kill countless civilians, including the large number of underground Christians living there. In an open letter to Trump published by The Korea Herald last week, Robert Park, a former prisoner in North Korea under the Kim Jong-il regime, begged the U.S. president to ensure that no ordinary people would get hurt when he makes a decision regarding the repressive regime. "It's been brought to my attention that persons who have advised you and are within your administration profess to be Christians. Please kindly be reminded that a large number of underground Christians are within North Korea. They are the most persecuted religious group in the world, according to multiple watchdogs of religious rights internationally," Park wrote. "As I pray your team accepts upon deep reflection, it would be decidedly un-Christian to countenance indiscriminate killings of those who are among the people in the world who suffer the most," he continued. Park was brutally tortured by North Korean authorities in 2009 after he was caught illegally crossing the frozen Tumen River into North Korea on Christmas Day to protest against human rights violations. Despite the abuses he endured, he continued preaching the Gospel and even told his captors "God loves you." After his release in February 2010, Park continued speaking out against North Korea's various human rights abuses. In his letter, he noted that he has been "profoundly wounded and suffered loss on an incalculable and irretrievable scale" due to his attempts to call attention to North Korea's abuses. He warned that thousands of Christians are believed to be detained in prison camps near facilities where weapons of mass destruction are kept, and many lives will potentially be lost if the U.S. launches a strike on those sites. He contended that the North Korean crisis could be solved by "reaching out to the general populace of North Korea in sympathy and supporting their internal unseating of Kim Jong Un a one individual." He suggested that those efforts should be accompanied by the freeing of all political prisoners in the country, which he said could be achieved by negotiating with North Koreans who could assume interim administrative responsibilities after the peaceful ouster of Kim Jong Un. Park's plea came at a time when serious concerns are being raised over a potential war between the U.S. and North Korea. U.S. General James Mattis has previously warned that the Communist regime could face "total annihilation" if it continues its provocative nuclear missile testing. On Sunday, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson stated that the Trump administration plans to continue pursuing diplomacy "until the first bomb drops." Meanwhile, Pyongyang has lashed out against the U.S. because of the recent U.N. sanctions, that were intended at crippling the state's economy. Rising tensions in Iraq are sustaining oils gains as the government of OPECs No. 2 producer clashes with the semi-autonomous Kurdish region. Crude rose 0.6 percent in London after adding 2.8 percent the previous two sessions. Fighting in Kirkuk, home to Iraqs oldest producing fields, has halted output from two deposits that pump a combined 275,000 barrels a day. While thats small in the global market, the prospect of continued disruption, together with signs of tighter supplies elsewhere, is helping to keep Brent around $58 a barrel. Conflict in Iraqi Kurdistan is of course the attention of the market, said Bjarne Schieldrop, chief analyst commodities at SEB Markets Merchant Banking. The risk of disruption to pipeline flows is probably quite high, he said. Adding to the bullish sentiment, a Bloomberg survey showed that U.S. oil inventories probably fell by 3 million barrels last week, while OPEC said Sunday that efforts to curb production are starting to bear fruit. Brent for December settlement advanced 36 cents to $58.18 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange at 8:45 a.m. New York time, after gaining 65 cents on Monday. The global benchmark crude traded at a premium of $5.85 to West Texas Intermediate for the same month. WTI for November delivery was at $52.05 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, up 18 cents, after climbing 42 cents on Monday. Total volume traded was 21 percent below the 100-day average. Kurdish company KAR Group stopped pumping crude at the Avana and Bai Hassan deposits in Kirkuk after technicians failed to report for work and security guards left amid fighting, an official at the central government-run North Oil Co. said Monday. The Iraqi and Kurdish oil flow to the Turkish port of Ceyhan declined in the past 24 hours, according to a port agent report. The port has received 510,000 barrels of crude in the past day from Northern Iraq compared with a flow of 650,000 barrels in the prior 24 hours. See also: Battle for Iraqs Future Targets 90-Year-Old Kirkuk Oil Field Geopolitics is haunting the oil market again, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. said in a note, adding that both sides in the Kurdistan conflict have an incentive to keep oil flowing due to low production costs and high revenue per barrel. --With assistance from Heesu Lee To contact the reporter on this story: Angelina Rascouet in London at arascouet1@bloomberg.net. To contact the editors responsible for this story: James Herron at jherron9@bloomberg.net, Alex Devine, John Deane 2017 Bloomberg L.P. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Mattress Firm has sued Tuft & Needle, accusing the online "bed-in-a-box" company of making false claims about Mattress Firm and its products in major advertising campaigns. The Houston-based mattress retailer, which filed the federal lawsuit in Texas on Monday, alleges the Phoenix-based startup engaged in "false, unfair, and disparaging advertising" by running billboards with statements like "Mattress stores are greedy," "Don't fall for mattress store gimmicks" and "Mattress Goliath, meet David: Tuft & Needle." Some of the ads incorporated elements of Mattress Firm's trademark logo, the lawsuit states. Mattress Firm also accused Tuft & Needle of buying AdWords to direct online Google searches for "Mattress Firm" to Tuft & Needle's website, where it used language like "snake oil" and "unfair markups" to describe the "Big Mattress" industry. The company also alleges a Tuft & Needle executive made false statements about Mattress Firm's return policy in the media. Mattress Firm is seeking a jury trial to claim damages, which include Tuft & Needle's profits and legal fees, as well as a permanent injunction against the ad campaigns. Norton Rose Fulbright, a London-based law firm with a Houston office, is representing the mattress retailer. Mattress Firm CEO Ken Murphy in a statement accused Tuft & Needle of "orchestrating a multi-state smear campaign." Tuft & Needle responded in a statement that officials had not yet been served but are looking into the matter. "We would like to focus on the facts instead of conveying opinion at this time," the company said. Mattress Firm's lawsuit comes as competition heats up between traditional mattress retailers and bed-in-a-box upstarts such as Casper, Leesa and Tuft & Needle, which sell foam mattresses that are vacuum-compressed in a box and shipped directly to consumers. Incorporated in 2014, Tuft & Needle is one of the country's largest online bed-in-a-box companies. Its mattresses start at $325 for a twin, according to its website. Mattress Firm, the nation's largest with more than 3,500 stores, also has a bed-in-a-box offering, called "Dream Bed." Prices for this twin bed-in-a-box mattresses range from $320 to $420, the lawsuit says. In August, the founders of Tuft & Needle met with Mattress Firm in Houston to discuss potential business relationships between the two companies, the lawsuit states. On Aug. 28, while Mattress Firm was planning its mattress donations to Hurricane Harvey evacuees, Tuft & Needle launched its "Mattress Bet" ad campaign. The online ads incorporated elements of Mattress Firm's logo to urge consumers to share their worst mattress store experience. It also offered $100 to any dissatisfied customer who return their bed-in-a-box mattress and bought one from Mattress Firm instead. A Dickinson High School student was arrested Tuesday morning after school officials say he brought an unloaded gun to school. Another student reported the gun to an administrator, who then contacted the school liaison officer, Dickinson ISD spokeswoman Tammy Dowdy said. The Bernard and Audre Rapoport Center for Human Rights and Justice at the University of Texas at Austin is joining forces with Houston's Rothko Chapel to host the third annual "Frances Tarlton 'Sissy' Farenthold Endowed Lecture in Peace, Social Justice, and Human Rights." The event is slated for 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at Eidman Courtroom, Texas Law, 727 E. Dean Keeton St in Austin, 78705. The lecture is free and open to the public. Sissy Farenthold will be in attendance. More Information If you go WHAT: 2017 Sissy Farenthold Endowed Lecture featuring Ai-jen Poo: "Immigration and the Future of American Families" WHO: Award-winning activist and organizer Ai-jen Poo WHEN: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19, with reception to follow WHERE: Eidman Courtroom, Texas Law, 727 E. Dean Keeton St. in Austin, 78705 For more information and to register, visit: https://law.utexas.edu/humanrights/events/2017-farenthold-endowed-lecture. See More Collapse Award-winning activist and organizer Ai-jen Poo will present a lecture entitled "Immigration and the Future of American Families," focusing on the role of immigrant women in the care economy of the U.S. Poo is a labor organizer, social innovator and a leading voice in domestic workers' rights and family care advocacy. She also serves as executive director for the National Domestic Workers Alliance and co-director of Caring Across Generations. She has been organizing immigrant women workers for more than two decades, forging pathways to sustainable quality jobs for the caregiving workforce and to affordable care for the nation's aging population. In addition, Poo is the author of "The Age of Dignity: Preparing for the Elder boom in Changing America." Her accolades include recognition as one of Fortune.com's World's 50 Greatest Leaders (2015), a MacArthur Foundation "genius" fellow (2014), a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader (2013) and one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People in the World (2012). For more information and to register, visit: https://law.utexas.edu/humanrights/events/2017-farenthold-endowed-lecture. For more information about the Rothko Chapel and the full calendar of upcoming programs, workshops and events, visit rothkochapel.org or call 713-524-9839. The Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center (JCC) is a force in the community, offering many programs and activities. One of these programs is Meals on Wheels, which provides a daily hot meal to individuals who are 60 years or older, who are often nutritionally at-risk and may be disabled According to Kate Daniel, the JCC Meals on Wheels program coordinator, the program initially started as a grassroots effort in the 70s and operated out of the Seven Acres - Jewish Senior Care Services. Today, the program at the JCC is one out of nine Meals on Wheels programs in the Houston area, but is the only one that provides a Kosher option. Last month, JCC Meals on Wheels served 430 clients, some of which are daily and some weekly. The hot meal is served once a day at lunch time. "We partner with home and health care agencies and some hospitals in the Medical Center. We have social workers call us to have them placed on our routes. We have people see our cars drive by and then they call us. We are always looking for more ways to put ourselves out there, because not everyone is aware that these meals are available," Daniel said. The meal consists of an entree item, two sides, which is usually a vegetable and bread, and a piece of fruit. "The meal is one third of recommended daily allowances, all the nutrients a senior citizen would need," Daniel said. Laykie's Gourmet Cafe at the J, in the JCC facilities, makes all of the meals for the Kosher clients fresh each day. "Laykie Donin's operation is amazing. A huge staff helps her out. It is quite impressive what she is able to do daily Monday through Friday," Daniel said. The JCC serves everyone in need with a standard meal option, provided to the JCC by Valley Services in Houston, in addition to the Kosher option, so as to not limit to serving just the Jewish community. The JCC building is not open currently due to being flooded from Hurricane Harvey. The staff has temporarily set up at St. Phillips United Methodist church in their fellowship hall. "We did have quite a few volunteers drivers' homes that flooded and we had to utilize more staffers for Meals on Wheels. It has been nice in some ways but also a challenge, because we want to make sure those volunteers are taken care of but that they can also get back to their clients as soon as possible," Daniel said. According to Daniel, the Meals on Wheels program is currently looking for volunteer drivers. Once someone applies, they will attend an orientation, and learn their driving route, as well as anything specific they might need to know about their clients. "They know their clients, and they know what to expect. That is a thing that really works about our program," Daniel said. "They have more time to be invested and talk to the clients and make sure they are okay. Those volunteers can be delivering to anywhere from 8 clients to 14 a day. They are used to that person and foster a relationship. The senior citizens know that it is safe to open the door." Daniel continued, "I think people come in expecting it to be more difficult than it is, but it is a really fun experience." Kelly Hoover is one of the program's drivers, and she said that, through her job, she has many friendships with her meal clients. "I have known every single person for a long time. I could tell you anything about anybody. They all look forward to seeing the volunteers. They get involved with everyone that delivers because they are lonely, unfortunately. Most of their only contact they see is us," Hoover said. Daniel added, "It might not be that they are looking forward to the meal, it is that they are looking forward to saying hi to someone." Meals are delivered between the Southwest Freeway and Highway 288, and between the South 610 Loop and the Fort Bend County Line. Zip codes serviced include 77031, 77035, 77045, 77051, 77053, 77071, 77074, 77081, 77085, 77096 and Bellaire outside of the Loop. For more information about the JCC's Meals on Wheels program, visit www.erjcchouston.org/seniors/meals-on-wheels/ or call 713-729-3200 ext. 3279. Oct. 6 An Officer was dispatched to the 5300 block of Rutgers in reference to a vehicle that was discovered unsecured with the driver's side door lock and steering ignition column damaged. Upon further investigation it was determined that an unknown person(s) entered the vehicle without the owner's consent and attempted to steal the vehicle. A report was generated for the criminal offense of Attempted Auto Theft. At 3:44 pm, an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regard to a walk in report of fraud. At 4:48 pm, an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regards to an identity theft that had already occurred. An Officer was dispatched to the 2700 block of Carolina Way in regards to an identity theft that had already occurred. An Officer was dispatched to the 2600 block of Werlein, in reference to a failing to stop and give information - minor accident call, which had already occurred. Oct. 7 An Officer was dispatched to the 6500 block of Wakeforest in regards to an identity theft that had already occurred. At 1:56 pm, an officer was dispatched to a business located in the 4000 block of Bellaire Blvd. in regard to a report of a shoplifter. After further investigation it was discovered that one of the suspected individuals had stolen food and beverages from a grocery store in the area. This individual was subsequently arrested for theft (possession of stolen property). Oct. 8 An Officer observed a vehicle in the 3700 block University with an expired registration. During the course of the contact, the officer was able to detect an odor of marijuana emanating from within the vehicle. Upon further investigation, the driver was found to have a small amount of marijuana inside the vehicle. It was also discovered that the driver had outstanding warrants with the City of Bellaire. The subject was placed in custody for those warrants. An officer was dispatched to the 2900 block of Sunset in in regards to an identity theft that had already occurred. Oct. 9 At 1:34 am, an officer observed a vehicle strike the curb on the west side of the roadway in the 5900 block of Weslayan, causing the front passenger tire to blowout and the driver's airbag to deploy. The vehicle was stopped and the driver was found to be Driving While Intoxicated. The driver was arrested and booked into the West University Place jail. An Officer observed a vehicle traveling south bound towards his location at what appeared to be a high rate of speed. The vehicle stopped short of rear ending a patrol vehicle that was already on another scene at 5900 block of Weslayan. Upon further investigation it was discovered that the driver was intoxicated. The driver of the vehicle was subsequently arrested for the offense of Driving While Intoxicated without incident. Officers were dispatched to the 3800 Block of Rice in regards to a Burglary of Habitation that had already occurred. Oct. 10 At 11:00 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby to see the complainant in regard to Identity Theft that already occurred. At 02:15 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby to see the complainant in regard to Identity Theft that already occurred. An officer was dispatched to a residence located in the 2700 block of Arbuckle in regards to a theft of a package that already occurred. Oct. 11 An Officer was dispatched to 3500 block of Sunset in reference to a Theft that already occurred. An officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regards to Identity Theft. Officers were dispatched to the 6700 block of Buffalo Speedway in reference to a disturbance. Upon further investigation the subject was transported to the Ben Taub Neuropsychiatric Center for an Emergency Detention Order. An officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regards to Identity Theft. Oct. 12 At 8:05 am, an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regard to a walk-in report of a burglary of a motor vehicle that had already occurred. An Officer was dispatched to Harris County Jail Facility in reference to a subject who had warrants with the West University Place Police Department. Upon arrival, the Officer took care and custody of the subject where he was transported to West University Place Police Department jail without incident. An officer was dispatched to the 2800 block of Nottingham in regards to Burglary of a Motor Vehicle that had already occurred. An officer was dispatched to the 6300 block of Brompton in regards to a Burglary of a Motor Vehicle that had already occurred. At 3:24 pm, an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regard to a walk-in report of fraudulent use of identifying information. An Officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in reference to a theft that had already occurred. An officer was dispatched to the 5600 block of Kirby to speak to a business owner who wanted to do a police information report. Houston's industrial market saw a summer slowdown, according to a new report. Tenants leased nearly 4 million square feet of industrial space during the third quarter, according to NAI Partners. That's about 2.5 million fewer square feet compared to last year. Most of the leases 3.4 million square feet were for warehouse and distribution space, followed by flex and manufacturing space, according to the Houston-based commercial real estate firm. RELATED: Massive warehouse, built on spec, shows confidence in local market Rents for industrial space averaged $6.76 per square feet, an 8 cent drop from last quarter. Southwest Houston had the highest rents for industrial space at $7.27 per square feet, according to NAI. Darren O'Conor, vice president with NAI, said he was optimistic tenants will sign new industrial leases as Houston recovers from Hurricane Harvey. "The industrial real estate market like much of the metro hit the pause button for a couple of weeks even though it felt like much longer," O'Conor said in the report. "As the Houston area has since returned to business with some sense of normalcy post-Harvey, we have seen activity levels pick back up, with increased movement in virtually all industrial submarkets." Although leasing activity is down, vacancy rates remain a low 5.4 percent. In addition, both construction and sales activity are up. Investors have purchased nearly $1.2 billion worth of industrial space since January, a 122 percent increase over last year, according to Real Capital Analytics. Buyers have ranged from Wall Street investors, private equity firms, real estate investment trusts and foreign investors, according to the New York commercial real estate data firm. Developers are under construction on about 4.9 million square feet of new industrial space, up slightly from last year. Oakmont Industrial Group, an Atlanta-based developer, recently broke ground on a nearly 700,000-square-foot spec warehouse, the largest speculative industrial project in the Houston area. A squeaky door. Hanging cobwebs. Darkened rooms. Chain saws running. The ingredients are all there for a spooky, harrowing few nights at the Dayton Volunteer Fire Department's annual Haunted House. Volunteer firefighter Adam Piserelle promises some screams and goosebumps as patrons wonder through the old, now haunted, firehouse the next couple of weekends. Piserelle, owner of C's Barber Shop in Dayton, has been a member of the department for 12 years and said he really enjoys putting the event on. The barber moved to Dayton and graduated in 1996 and has set his roots here. He immediately joined the fire department when he opened up his barber business at 100 Sterling Avenue. The haunted feature has been on a brief hiatus the last three years, but leadership decided to resurrect it this year. "We're bringing it back this year because we have a new fire station where none of our equipment is exposed," he said. While the Dayton department had only one theft, surrounding departments have experienced the sting of crime while putting on similar events. "We can move all of our trucks over to the new department and utilize the entire old building for the haunted house," he said. Piserelle said some departments had expensive equipment stolen, some more than what they were raising with their haunted houses. "They were vandalized and it cost them a lot of money," he said. This year, the fire department volunteers reached out to the Dayton High School ROTC cadets and they both will work and man the haunted house. "We'll split the funds with them and so both of us will benefit from the additional resources," he said. ROTC cadets have several events in the works during the academic school year that need funding and this was a way for the fire department to help them as well as earn additional money to buy needed equipment for the fire house. Piserelle said they have anywhere from 30 or more people working the haunted house, but wouldn't give any details or spill the beans on where they would be working - or hiding - and how they were participating. The Ladies Auxiliary will be selling refreshments and snacks. There will also be a jail cell setup where patrons can pay $5 to have one of their friends at the event arrested and jailed. If they have friends they know would love to see them behind bars, Piserelle said they offer some protection. "They can buy a Get-Out-Of-Jail pass for $10 and avoid arrest," he said. He made it clear that the pass has to be bought before you get arrested. The Haunted House opens on two weekends, Oct. 20-21 and Oct. 27-28. Ages 9 and up are $7 and 8 and under are free. The Haunted House is located at the old fire department building behind Jack In The Box on Highway 90. Don't have the heart for all of the fright? Anyone wishing to help support the department is invited to drop by and purchase any of the refreshments and make a donation to the department. The fun begins at dark but be sure to get in line before then and be ready for a frightening experience. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Chinook helicopters. National Guard sleeping in one of the hangars. A giant C-130 military plane. Liberty Municipal Airport (LMA) was a key player in the recovery during Hurricane Harvey and remains a key for growth in the area. For his work and the help of his friend, Phil Robertson, manager of the Liberty Municipal Airport was honored by the military shortly before they folded the flag to leave. It has been an eventful journey for the former Kemah resident who moved to Liberty to do aircraft maintenance repairs. Before coming to Liberty, Robertson had traveled to different airports and found a customer who began keeping his plane here at LMA. "I came out here, did his work, and those T-hangars were only about 20 percent occupied," he said. It piqued his interest and asked the amount of the rent and was floored that it was $250 per month. "Anywhere close to the Gulf you're going to spend closer to $450," he said, "and they're not even as nice as these." He liked it well enough to move his operations to Liberty Municipal Airport and met City Manager Gary Broz. "I told him I was wanting to set up my business out here and Broz got excited," he said. The city manager told him that they would have customers show interest in the T-hangars, but renters wouldn't commit because the airport didn't have anyone who could do maintenance on aircraft. Robertson was a godsend to the city and the airport. Without a mechanic, the city wouldn't be able to draw any additional business. Robertson set up his business and has been happy ever since. "I couldn't complain at all," he said. Shortly after he got the business up and running, the current airport manager left the country and the manager's spot was open. Robertson asked for the job and Broz agreed he was the perfect candidate since he was already here at the airport and had so much background knowledge. Now all the hangars are full and Robertson couldn't be happier. "We don't have any drama, everyone gets along, and we just have really fine people," he said. The city just finished a drainage project, a feather in their cap as it helped LMA be selected as the airport to be used by the military during the storm. "We were about 80 percent finished when Harvey hit," Robertson said. It was a hurdle that had to be completed before TxDOT would agree to additional funding. "Now we can extend the runway from the current 3,800 feet to 5,000 feet," the manager said. He was excited because the funding would allow the changes to be made and it would not only draw in additional business, but bigger aircraft. Depending on the day and month, the field is the airport of choice for many corporate jets. Recently, Bobby Patton, co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, flew down to the airport to drive over to Dayton for a memorial service. "You just never know who's coming in here," he smiled. During the hurricane, he received a phone call from the military requesting the use of the airport for hurricane relief and recovery. "When they asked about landing a C-130 I wasn't sure about that," he said. He informed them his runway was only 3,800 feet, but that was no problem. They were more concerned about the load limit. "I told them I didn't even have a clue," he said embarrassed. He told them that they had just cut the runway for the drainage project and he noticed the asphalt on the runway itself was about 8 or 9 inches thick. "That was fine by them," he said. The runway and T-hangars were completely dry allowing them to land. "They did exactly what they were designed to do," he said. The hangars are also rated for winds up to 160 mph. The C-130 landed and the runway was more than sufficient for their needs. "If they had gotten off the runway, they might have hit some soft spots, but they didn't," Robertson said. Robertson was told the weight of the plane and payload was between 125,000 to 135,000. When the first one flew in, it was impressive. Loud. Had a wingspan of 132 feet and can fly at a speed of about 368mph. A single tank of gas will carry the turbo prop more than 2,300 miles. "It was really special seeing that big thing flying in here and landing," Robertson said excited. The plane off-loaded mostly personnel to assist during the recovery. The first night many of them spent the night in an adjacent hangar. Oddly enough, just a couple of months before the hurricane, the pumps were down due to a lightning strike and underwent repairs. "We're hoping that the city will install a new pay system that will take not only the major credit cards, but the specialty corporate card that are used by a lot of pilots for fueling," Robertson said. The airport is also slated to receive a new AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System). AWOS is a fully configurable airport weather system that provides continuous, real time information and reports on airport weather conditions. Area airports in Cleveland, Conroe and Beaumont have one, but the weather in each of those places can be drastically different than it is in Liberty. The airport is equipped with runway lighting and a beacon and is considered an 'uncontrolled' strip. "Pilots have a frequency where they can call and generally announce their aircraft identification number, their intentions, and to listen for any others to make sure they aren't in each other's way when it comes to landing," he said. Robertson said he has seen an uptick in the business at the airport and believes it will continue to grow as more growth comes to the county. Aviation is no cheap commodity. The parts alone have become expensive and Robertson said it's not like you can replace a part with just anything. "They have to be sent off and it may be fixed within a few days, but it has to be tested to make sure it meets aviation standards," he said. It might take weeks or months before the part is returned depending on how much of a backlog there is at the parts shop. "Then everything has to be certified. I received 2-3 pages of certification for a single washer that went on a plane," he said. All of it required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). "After all, there's no aviation aisle in Walmart," he laughed. Broz said the airport services both business and pleasurable adventures. "We will be investing some more money in the future on some projects to attract more business to the area," he said. A man and a woman were arrested in Porter on Sunday night after a chase that led to a car crash into the Hot Biscuit restaurant. A deputy with the Montgomery County Pct. 4 Constable's Office attempted to stop the vehicle along U.S. 59, but the driver allegedly refused to stop, the constable's office posted on Facebook. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The Coldspring/San Jacinto County Chamber of Commerce welcomes Michele Kimmons Properties, LLC with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 8. Michele Kimmons Properties, LLC, is a realtor business owned by Michele Kimmons, a native Houstonian and proud Texan. "I've been in business for almost 10 years now," she said. The business has six realtors and is growing according to Kimmons. She prides herself on having a knack for designing and upgrading properties. "We market both lands, lots, waterfront and residential," she said. While Kimmons has been a member of the Coldspring/San Jacinto County Chamber for many years, her business is now opening up in Point Blank, Texas. Michele Kimmons Properties, LLC services customers in areas as far away as Spring, Huntsville, Livingston and Kingwood. According to Kimmons, what sets her business apart from any other realtors is that her realtors place customer service above everything else. "We're a petit real estate company," she said. "We enjoy customer service and we answer our phones. You can always get a hold of us." One of the ways that Michele Kimmons Properties, LLC provides for its customers is through its concierge program. The realtors assist customers coming in from another country or are new to the area by providing them information on how they can get insurance, find local schools and other local services. "We work with them on getting all of that information," said Kimmons. Michele Kimmons Properties, LLC also gives discounts to seniors and those who have served in the military. Michele Kimmons Properties, LLC is located at 641 Hwy 156 Point Blank. For more information, call Kimmons at 936-520-6424 or email at michelekimmons@gmail.com or visit http://www.michele-sells.com/. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Harmony Science Academy in Katy is a familiar constant for fourth-grader Kailei McGowan, 9, who with her family was forced to evacuate her Richmond apartment because of flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey. From refuge with second-floor neighbors to a five-day stay at the Marshall High School shelter, to staying with friends and other temporary lodging, family members as of Oct. 7 are now Katy residents living in an apartment off the Grand Parkway. McGowan has been attending the academy for two years, but she's belonged to the Mission Bend Girl Scout Troop 150061 for four years. "Kailei is outgoing, smart and very helpful," said troop leader Ashley Kanatzar-Fuller. That helpfulness was evident at Marshall High School. "When she arrived at the shelter she and her family would be staying in, she did what any Girl Scout would do. She put on her vest and started serving others," said Mona Tolbert, Girl Scouts Of San Jacinto Council communications director. "For more than a 100 years, Girl Scouts have been some of the first to respond to their community in times of disaster. Kailei is no exception," added Tolbert. "When in the shelter, she was first scared but then wore her vest (after 24 hours) and started to help," explained Nancy Liedtke, Katy campus outreach coordinator for Harmony Science Academy. "Her mom, Ashlei (Gill) said "everything is her favorite so she was worried about her things and other people but once she was able to help, she started to smile again and it made her feel better," continued Liedtke. "Mom asked, 'Don't you want to rest and relax?,'" said Kailei talking about her stay at Marshall. Her reply: "No, I want to help. I want to do so many things." She gave out canned food, water, clothes and cleaning supplies to other survivors. "The next day I helped again until it was time to go," said Kailei. She has good memories of others who helped them. "If someone else gets in a hurricane, I'm going to help them because all the people helped us," she said. That help started after opening their first-floor apartment door, they found water as high as her toddler brother, Giovanni. They spent the night with an upstairs neighbor until rescuers with boats could come hours later. "I was scared. I had not been in this kind of boat before," said Kailei, who as a Girl Scout has gone canoeing. "Cars were underwater. It was really scary to see cars drowned." From the boat they traveled by National Guard truck. They have since revisited their former apartment in Richmond. They found the walls cut away and repairs had yet to start. "It's been a mess," said Kailei. "It's been horrible." Harmony Science Academy has had several families displaced, said Liedtke, and the school established a Harmony Harvey Relief fund to help. The school also has tried to steer children away from the details and trauma related to Hurricane Harvey, said Charmaine Diallo, who is Kailei's home room teacher and math and science teacher. Diallo said the school has offered to help students with uniforms if they lost them in the floods. During September, all students were offered free breakfasts and lunches, she said. "We've taken donations. The school has done a lot to help the students," said Diallo. While school was closed, she was among teachers who did home visits to check on students to make sure everything was OK, said Diallo, adding that some don't want to say that they need help. "I'm really proud of our students. A lot of students were affected, displaced. They're doing really well even though they were affected emotionally. They are still pulling through it pretty good," said Diallo. Kailei's mom, Ashlei Gill, sees Hurricane Harvey as a life-changing experience. She thinks people are more open now and friendly. "Thank you to all the people who helped us," said Gill. "It would have been a lot harder without them. We lost everything but it could have been harder or worse because we weren't alone." Harmony Public Schools also were negatively impacted by the hurricane. The Harmony Science Academy Braeswood, 5435 S. Braeswood Blvd., flooded. I don't know how many young women come to this blog or how many are parents of teenage or young adult women, but here are some safety tips from Kelsey's Army: T I P S 1. Trust your instincts - If something feels wrong then something probably is wrong.2. Know your surroundings - know who and what is around you.3. Always have a plan for where you would go and what you would do if a situation arises.4. Be willing to make a scene in order to be noticed.5. Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back.Remember the acronym TIPS:ake Chargenform others of your whereaboutsrepare for any situationurvival Mentality (role play situations so you will respond should they happen)For more information, go to Kelsey's Army The LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch shopping and dining complex has been sold and now is being managed by a company in Tennessee. Vista Companies president Woody Mann, Jr., who developed the 34 acres along the Grand Parkway at Cinco Ranch along with Denver-based equity partner Amstar, said in a email statement he could only confirm that LaCenterra has been sold. All other information about the deal, including the cost, is subject to a confidentiality agreement, Mann wrote. News of the sale came after the company in June announced breaking ground on the final construction phase at LaCenterra, including a new 37,000 square foot Alamo Drafthouse cinema, a six story parking garage and an additional 7,500 square feet of retail space. It is expected to open sometime in Sprint 2018, boosting LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch to 410,000 square feet - including 125,000 square feet of office space. In March, Mann told the Houston Chronicle being in an affluent area that's part of a master planned community was among the reasons for choosing the site for LaCenterra. "When you're in a master-planned community, you basically have de facto zoning. It keeps someone from coming in and competing with you on an adjacent property," Mann said. Even with an abundance of vacant commercial buildings in the Houston area, Mann said While there may be a glut of empty commercials building in the greater Houston area, Mann said more than 90 percent of the office space and about 90 percent of the retail space in LaCenterra is occupied. The Fort Bend County Appraisal District identified the owner only as LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch LLC. The shopping center's website said retail leasing duties is being done by Memphis-based Poag Shopping Centers. The company, which owns or manages several retail shopping centers in the United States, could not be reached for comment. Vista Companies still owns of manages at least three other commercial properties in the Katy area. Mann said the company is continuing to develop University Commons, a 150,000-square-foot retail project in Sugar Land at U.S. 59 and University Boulevard. Courtesy photo On Oct. 4, Katy Area Retired Educators (KARE) held their first meeting, after Hurricane Harvey, at Midway Barbeque with Aaron Alejandro as their guest speaker. Alejandro is the executive director of the Texas FFA Foundation who shared with the retirees "You may be Retired, but your Voice is Not." Midway Barbeque has agreed to host KARE meetings until the Merrell Center is restored. KARE's next meeting will be held on Nov. 1 at Midway Barbeque. For more information about the Katy Area Retired Educators go to www.localunits.org/KARE. The Houston West Chamber of Commerce (HWCOC) will host its annual Veterans Day tribute, "Salute to Veterans: Honoring Cold War Patriots" with keynote speaker, U.S. Navy Captain and NASA Astronaut Christopher J. Cassidy. The luncheon will take place Friday, Nov. 3, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Lone Star Flight Museum, at 11551 Aerospace Ave. in Houston. All veterans who register at hwcoc.org will receive complimentary entrance to the event. This year's program will highlight the Patriots of the Cold War and serve as an acknowledgement of the bravery and sacrifices of U.S. servicemen and women. The Salute to Veterans luncheon will also include a Heart of Service Award presentation, Commemorative Flyover, military memorabilia displays, keynote address, and recognition of veterans. Cassidy is an all-American hero of the highest order, serving his country both on the battlefield and in space. Cassidy completed four six-month deployments, including two tours of Afghanistan, during his ten years as a member of the U.S. Navy SEALs team. He deployed to the Afghanistan region two weeks after the Sept. 11 attacks. He was awarded his first Bronze Star for leading a nine-day operation at the Zhawar Kili cave complex and a second Bronze Star for combat leadership service in 2004 during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The Lone Star Flight Museum is an aviation museum and STEM learning center. The new $38 million state-of-the-art facility at Ellington Airport displays more than 40 historically significant aircrafts and hundreds of artifacts related to the history of flight. The 130,000-square foot facility also houses renowned flying collection of historic aircraft. For more information about Salute to Veterans, contact Angela Robles at (713) 785-4922 or angela@hwcoc.org or visit www.hwcoc.org. The Houston West Chamber of Commerce is located in the population center of Houston that is home to the Galleria Area, Uptown District, Westchase District, Spring Branch District, Memorial City, International District, CityCentre and the Energy Corridor District an area of more than 8,000 businesses that employ more than 100,000 people in industries responsible for West Houston's growth such as oil and gas, manufacturing, technology, retail, medical, engineering and service firms. Representatives of the engineering firm Costello are scheduled to deliver a report on their drainage/flood study of the Katy area at the Oct. 23 Katy City Council meeting. Katy Mayor Chuck Brawner announced the presentation at the Oct. 9 meeting after residents of three different neighborhoods in the Katy area shared their flood stories and looked for help from the city. Jane Lebo of 2810 Fortuna started the public comment period with her story about flooding south of Morton Road. She said she had met with city officials as well as a representative of Costello regarding the flooding, which she said made property values take a hit. She said flooding occurred after work began to improve Morton Road but before related detention pond improvements. A 47-year resident, she said this was the first time she flooded. "My ultimate goal is to get them to fix it," she said later in an interview, "to recognize what's wrong and fix it." One of about 40 homes that flooded south of the city in Pin Oak Village and the Falcon Point areas belongs to Alexis Carrico of 1935 Cloverfield Drive, which is near Katy Mills. "We need your help," said Carrico, "to make sure drainage issues are fixed." She said the flooding caused almost $1 million in damage to the neighborhood and she wanted the city to make homes safe and secure. "My home flooded and I do not want to do this again." In a Sept. 17 Facebook video, Brawner addressed the proposed Katy Boardwalk area and Pin Oak resident concerns about design issues of the lake at the Boardwalk. Costello has been retained to look at flood water control, the lake and the layout of the boardwalk project and come back with recommendations, said the mayor. Pin Oak Village resident James Schuck said his neighborhood didn't flood during the Tax Day floods but did after Hurricane Harvey. Between the two events, construction started on the Boardwalk lake, which he said is a major contributing factor. In the Sept. 17 Facebook video, the mayor also told viewers that Costello is conducting a needs assessment across the city to look at areas where immediate changes need to be made in how flood water is handled. Once the recommendations are in, the city will advertise for bids for construction companies to make those changes, he said. Those changes may not come too quickly for the third flood victim who spoke at the Oct. 9 meeting, John Rotsch of 6319 Magnolia, which is west of Avenue D. "You have to do something about this flooding," he told City Council. He talked of a new storm drain being blocked and said officials have to get the water out. "We're getting slaughtered with property values." After Hurricane Harvey, Costello representatives have been busy developing a needs assessment for areas of Katy that were under water, said Brawner. "We're anxious to see the report. There's still a lot of work that needs to be done." Following the Costello report, the city will keep moving forward, said the mayor. He noted that there are larger issues outside the purview of the city but that affect the city. Brawner said the people with the power and answers to deal with that, ie the Cypress Creek watershed flooding, are looking for more information and working in Congress and at the state level to cover the cost of a plan to help stop that water from coming down to Katy. Katy officials first hired Costello of Houston to do a drainage study update after the April 2016 Tax Day flooding. The first of three scheduled meetings occurred in April 2017 with a second this past June. The third was initially scheduled for July with a final report anticipated in August, but then Hurricane Harvey came. Four men are being sought by Houston police after a double shooting left one man dead and another wounded, with three of the suspects fleeing in a car taken at gunpoint from a woman whose 11-month-old niece was with her. The multiple shooting and carjacking occurred Monday in the South Side neighborhood, according to the Houston Police Department. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate In March 1952 more than 100,000 troops descended on Lampasas, Texas to restore order to the small town west of Fort Hood. For two months after the paratroopers jump out of the Texas sky, America's fighting men worked to retake the Texas town from a communist threat. TEXAS TO THE RESCUE: How Texas reacted to and benefited from World War II The military training exercise, dubbed Operation Longhorn, was the Operation Jade Helm of the 1950s, without all the sticky conspiracy theories. Lone Star soil was used to train U.S. Army and Air Force troops on what to do if those feared communists overtook a town and declared martial law, according to the Lampasas Dispatch Record. It is one of the most quirky, and obscure tales in modern Texas history. At the time, Operation Longhorn was one of the biggest military maneuvers undertaken since the end of World War II, with exercises costing $3.3 million. An aggressor force called the People's Republic, headed up by troops from the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, went up against several Army divisions from nearby Fort Hood. A fake newspaper was even published all about the invasion, along with a radio broadcast. Don't worry, everyone was in on the plan. HONOR THEM: The real meaning behind Memorial Day and its customs City officials were "arrested" and churches were shut down to simulate the invasion. A list of rules was distributed, detailing dos and don'ts for locals. Even propaganda leaflets rained from the sky at one point, urging locals to resist and to evoke the memory of the Alamo and Goliad. Thankfully they didn't or else things could have gotten out of hand. Some derisively called it a "cold war pageant" for the fear-mongering involved. A recent Texas Standard episode shared some of the radio and film reels released during the operation. Although the invasion was fake, there were very real casualties. According to the Temple Daily Telegram, one paratrooper died during an April 8, 1952 jump, with another 221 injured after high winds proved to be problematic. An Air Force pilot died in the operation when his F-51 fighter collided with another plane. LIVING ON $4 A WEEK: The story of a Texas 'Tarzan' who lived in a tree to save money after WWII Lampasas city fathers and angry ranchers refused to have another Longhorn-type event in their city. Troops had damaged some of their fields and were frankly annoying, according to reports. You don't scare a Texas man's turkeys to death and expect him to take it lying down. The next maneuver happened in Louisiana, far away from Lampasas. "Farmers and ranchers who bore the burden of the maneuver have gotten little enjoyment out of the whole thing because of worry over damage to fences, and misplaced livestock, and many have said, after hearing plans for another maneuver next year, that they would refuse to sign easements for their land to be used for maneuvers again," the local paper wrote after the fact. Joe Zimmerman, mayor of Sugar Land, has announced his bid for re-election. Zimmerman, who was elected the 10th mayor of Sugar Land in 2016, is looking forward to continuing to represent the residents of Sugar Land and serve his community for another term. As mayor, Zimmerman has seen the city experience growth in both business and residential, including the much-anticipated grand opening of the Smart Financial Centre, the annexation of Greatwood and New Territory later this year and through the historical rainfall of Hurricane Harvey. Zimmerman is a champion of education and has been instrumental in creating an alliance, during his term as mayor, between the Fort Bend County ISD board as well as other school districts. He is the director of development for Cobb Fendley & Associates, Inc., a private civil engineering consulting firm. He business background includes having served in senior management positions in a number of different industries including consulting engineering, water and wastewater operations, land acquisition/land development/homebuilding as well as an international assignment in Libya. Before becoming mayor, Joe held many city positions including four years as the at-large, position 2, city councilman and was a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission for eight years, serving six years as chairman. He currently serves on the Economic Development Committee, Inter-Governmental Relations Committee, Sugar Land Development Corporation Board, 4b Board, TIRZ 4 Board and as the COSL representative to the Houston-Galveston Area Council Transportation Policy Council. He and his wife of 41 years, Nancy, have made Sugar Land their home since 1990 and are active members of Second Baptist Church. Their daughter, Allison, her husband Chris Wallace, granddaughter Emmy, and grandson Campbell live in Houston. Friends and supporters will be hosting a re-election campaign kickoff reception on Wednesday, Oct. 25, at the Insperity Club at Constellation Field. Contributions to the Zimmerman campaign can be made at joezimmermanformayor.com. Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, has issued a statement on behalf of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and with respect to the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process. October 17, 2017, 09:43 UN Secretary-General calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to resolve Karabakh conflict STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 17, ARTSAKHPRESS: The Secretary-General welcomes the summit held on 16 October in Geneva, Switzerland, between the President of the Republic of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, and the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, organized under the auspices of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group. He is encouraged by the Presidents agreement to take measures to intensify the negotiation process and to take additional steps to reduce tensions on the Line of Contact. The Secretary-General reiterates the United Nations support for the ongoing mediation efforts of the Co-Chairs and encourages the sides to build on the positive momentum created by this summit to reach a peaceful negotiated settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, reads the statement attributable to the spokesman for the UN Secretary-General. Poland's Foreign Minister Witold Waszczykowski will visit Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan this week. October 17, 2017, 17:09 Poland's foreign minister to visit Armenia STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 17, ARTSAKHPRESS: The aim of the trip is to highlight the regions importance for Polish foreign policy, according to the foreign ministrys press office. Mr Waszczykowskis talks in the three South Caucasus countries will focus on bilateral economic cooperation, security with a view to Polands non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council that starts next year, as well as relations between the EU and Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia ahead of the Brussels summit of the Eastern Partnership to be held in November. The visit is also aimed at intensifying political contacts between Poland and the South Caucasus countries, and signalling the willingness to maintain good and friendly relations with all three countries of this important region. On Friday the Polish foreign minister will travel to Yerevan, where he is to meet with Armenias President Serzh Sargsyan and Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg on Tuesday promised more pre-trial diversion programs for suspects in drug possession cases and those with mental health issues. The increased focus on sending drug users to treatment instead of jail is one of the most noticeable and significant policy changes among eight separate action plans advanced by volunteer committees that Ogg created after she took office in January. During a press conference Tuesday, Ogg laid out in broad strokes the policy recommendations written by the committees and emphasized that she is seeking participation from experts and Houston's leaders. "We listen to the community," she said, flanked by about 30 volunteers including former HPD Chief C. O. Bradford and Thurgood Marshall School of Law professor Lydia D. Johnson. "We are evidence-based and data driven, but it is important to know how the community wants tax dollars spent to enhance public safety." Ogg released the full reports from committees on officer-involved shootings, evidence integrity, equality, immigration, bail-bond reform, mental health and diversity. Many of the reforms proposed using technology and data more efficiently to streamline the criminal justice system, such as moving to a paperless district attorney's office or using evidence-based risk assessments to determine bail amounts. Tarsha Jackson, the Harris County Director with the Texas Organizing Project, was on the bail bond committee and applauded Ogg for involving people with different backgrounds, some with conflicting interests. "It was a tug of war," Jackson said of her committee that included a bail bondsman and a representative of the Texas Criminal Justice Coalition. "We had deep debate on what the district attorney can do in regard to bail reform, about what's possible. And the final results were some good policies that she can implement." Attorney Paul Morgan, an outspoken defense lawyer who exposed the massive destruction of evidence in pending cases from a property room Precinct Four Constable's Office last year, was on the evidence integrity committee, along with a forensic evidence expert, a medical expert and others. "There's going to be new manuals and methods delivered to prosecutors on how to handle cases so that it's more evidence based, not just on a defendant's prior (convictions)," he said. Some of those changes include corroborating the statements from police by reviewing body cameras, something that has not been standard operation procedure in the past. His committee also supported the creation of a regional property room for the area's law enforcement agencies. Morgan noted his committee recommended a technological move to a paperless system that begins with digital reports from police officers that would allow the defense to review evidence remotely 24 hours a day. To download each of the action plans, visit the Harris County District Attorney's website here. This October, you don't have to head to a haunted house to get your fright in, because dozens of reportedly haunted locations are sprinkled throughout the Houston area. From restaurants to lofts and libraries, there are numerous locations where legendary ghosts are rumored to still walk the halls. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Most locals know that wild hogs are a huge problem in Texas, especially in rural areas, and they are increasingly invading even more developed suburbs. This week, a man named Joe Clowers in Union Grove, Texas killed a 416-pound wild hog that had been wreaking havoc on his property. RELATED: The ins and outs of feral hog hunting in Texas The Gregg County Game Warden's official Facebook page shared two images of the hog and Clowers. Now Playing: Wade Seago shot an 820 pound hog in his front yard Video: Time Texas is home to the largest feral hog population in the United States, with an estimated 4 million hogs statewide. It's safe to say that hogs are one of the most hated animals in Texas along with mosquitoes, fire ants, bed bugs, snakes and rats. At least you can kill and eat most everything from a hog. The same can't be said of those other vermin. RELATED: Tony the Louisiana truck stop tiger has died The wild hogs that mildly terrorize Texans are the progeny of domestic hogs and European wild hogs from way back when. Texas' feral hogs are omnivores with a nondiscriminatory palate. Since they will eat anything hunters looking to bait them into certain areas can use most anything edible. The hog was taken down with an AR-15, according to Clowers, and shared that the hog had been a constant nuisance for five years. He had preyed on the fawns in the area and Clowers added that he always stayed armed when visiting his deer feeders in case the hog in question charged him. RELATED: Feral hogs appearing in Kingwood, other suburban Houston neighborhoods "My property lays between some populated areas and I try to maintain an environment like a sanctuary or nursery for the deer to raise fawns," Clowers said. "He was the big daddy," Clowers said. "I called him the bush beast." Clowers told Chron.com that he is going to mount the hog European-style. The meat was left out too long for it to be salvaged so the departed hog will live on as a trophy in Clowers' home. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has doubled the reward for any information that leads to an arrest in the 1982 murder of a 19-year-old college. For this month only, DPS is offering $6,000 rather than the usual $3,000 reward to anyone who has details into the murder of Ruth Elizabeth Bettis, who was found dead in a pasture near Sprinkle Cutoff Road, east of Dessau Road, in Travis County on. Nov. 25, 1982, DPS stated in a news release. She had been sexually assaulted and shot to death. Ector County Sheriff's Office A Texas woman who has been convicted in federal court for filming herself while sexually assaulting a two-month-old child is on trial again. The Odessa American reports Amber Lynn Haugen is on trial for indecency with a child and aggravated sexual assault in Ector County. Haugen pleaded not guilty in the state trial. 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. Copiii cu nevoi speciale din Stefan Voda au conditii de reabilitare mai bune, datorita UE si Fundatiei Soros Moldova AKRON, Ohio - A Summit County judge has denied a former University of Akron student accused of killing his roommate's cat from entering into a diversion program. Summit County Common Pleas Court Judge Amy Corrigall Jones handed down her decision Friday to not allow 21-year-old Matthew McCullough into the program. A status hearing for the case has been scheduled at 11 a.m. Oct. 24. Defense attorney Reid Yoder argued that his client suffers from a mental illness and was suffering from it at the time the cat died, court documents say. The defense requested in May that McCullough undergo a psychological screening. A counselor, who was appointed by the court, screened McCullough and determined that he does not qualify. Yoder requested a second screening in September and found another expert. Psychologist Leslie Abromowitz screened McCullough Sept. 5 and diagnosed him with depressive disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Summit County Assistant Prosecutor Tom Kroll argued that Abromowitz' two-line report does not make any connection between the crime and McCullough's diagnosis, nor does it say whether the disorders affected him when he killed the cat, court documents say. The report also doesn't say when she saw McCullough or give any detail about his mental-health history. Entering McCullough into the diversion program would "demean the seriousness of this offense and not substantially reduce the likelihood of any future criminal activity," Kroll wrote. Ohio Revised Code says if someone is charged with a criminal offense they may be eligible for the diversion program if alcohol, drugs, mental illness, intellectual disability or human trafficking factor into the charged crime. People who complete the program can have their cases dismissed. McCullough was indicted in March and is charged with prohibitions concerning companion animals, court records say. He was indicted under Ohio's Goddard's Law which makes cruelty against animal a felony. McCullough is the first in Summit County charged with the new felony offense. It is named after Cleveland weatherman and animal rights activist Dick Goddard, according to the Summit County Prosecutor's Office. McCullough killed his cat on Valentine's Day when he threw it against the wall of the apartment he shared with his former roommate on Carroll Street, prosecutors say McCullough got upset when the cat urinated on him. Jones did not return a call seeking comment about her decision. Yoder declined to comment on the decision. If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Tuesday's crime and courts comments section. AKRON, Ohio -- The Northside Marketplace quietly opened its doors on Monday night, allowing the public a sneak peek of the wares available from Akron's entrepreneurs. The retail space, located in the Northside Lofts on Furnace Street south of N. Howard Street, is like an incubator for start-ups whose offerings range from fresh-baked goods and locally roasted coffees to all natural skin care, clothing, art, food and virtual-reality gaming. The Testa Companies created the marketplace with support from Downtown Akron Partnership and the Knight Foundation. It's designed to offer Akronites a unique place to shop while supporting local retailers. It's also meant to be an interesting space in the Northside Arts District to gather with friends. So far, about half the retail spaces are ready for business, and a central checkout area will serve the smaller startups that share spaces. Larger businesses, like Rubber City Clothing, Akron Honey Co., Dirty River Bicycle Works and Sure House Coffee serve as anchor businesses. Visitors are encouraged to use the marketplace's central gathering space, which features big-screen TVs, tables and lounging furniture. It also has a lengthy bar overlooking Cascade Valley that will soon be stocked with beer, wine and champagne. Users can download the app, Audiofetch, to tune the TVs to their mobile devices. Visit the Northside Marketplace at 21 Furnace St. Hours are Monday-Thursday from 4-8 p.m., Friday from 4-10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Parking is available on N. Main St. and Furnace St. Want more Akron news? Sign up for cleveland.com's Rubber City Daily, an email newsletter delivered at 5:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. AKRON, Ohio - Retired judge Carla Moore will receive the Akron Community Foundation's Bert A. Polsky Humanitarian Award in a ceremony at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn on Oct. 17. Moore, the 50th recipient of the award, will be joined by more than 400 business leaders and philanthropists for the ceremony, which opens with a reception at 6 p.m. A dinner will be held at 7 p.m., followed by the award program at 8 p.m. Moore's judicial career has spanned nearly 30 years. Most recently, she served on the Ninth District Court of Appeals. Previously, she presided over the Akron Municipal Court. She has also received several awards for her professional and volunteer services, including the Sir Thomas More Award from the Akron Bar Association in 2016. Moore has served on more than two dozen boards and committees, including the Akron Community Foundation, Akron Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law National Council and the Lawrence School. She has also served as a volunteer for Greenleaf Family Center's Teen Parent Program and a board member for the Law and Leadership Institute, a life-skills program for high school students in urban public school districts. Want more Akron news? Sign up for cleveland.com's Rubber City Daily, an email newsletter delivered at 5:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. Since it is now October and harvest time, I thought I should write about how school meal programs help children who are hungry. But this article has been enhanced by two serendipitous events. The first was seeing a letter to the editor by Danielle Schneider, the nutritional outreach and education program coordinator of the Cayuga/Seneca Community Action Agency, addressing the same issue. The second was a call from the Syracuse office of The Eastern Farm Workers Association asking if I would be part of a caravan taking students from professor James Ransomes advanced illustration class at Syracuse University to two Onondaga County farms so they could see the farms and the workers firsthand in order to create artwork illustrating hunger in the community. Letter: Don't let students miss breakfast Every child should start the school day properly nourished, but many children in Cayuga Coun The farm hands typically work 10 to 12 hour days, six days a week, trying to earn money to send home to their families. The ones I saw live in trailers provided by the farm owners. Ben Lee, the associations program coordinator, said these conditions are The Hamptons of farm work. The more rural workers dont live in such luxury. And, in a sad bit of irony, these workers often cant afford to buy enough food to eat, and do not have access to proper medical care. That goes for workers in Cayuga County, too. Getting back to school meals and hunger, Schneider provided some disturbing New York state statistics. More than 884,000 children do not have dependable access to enough food. Fewer than half of those eligible for free or reduced school lunch did not eat breakfast in school (did they eat breakfast at all?). In 2015, more than 1 million students who qualified for free or reduced lunch did not participate (so what did they eat, junk food?). And fewer than 30 percent who qualified took advantage of free summer feeding programs. That means more than 70 percent did not. Kids need to eat properly over the summer, too. Schneider told me, There is a lot of poverty and hunger in Cayuga County, and there is homelessness. If people are hungry at home, who do they turn to? New York state has really tried to step up to the plate, but there is a stigma to poverty, and people are often afraid or embarrassed to ask for help. Schneider also told me she would love to hear from anyone who would like more information about the programs and services her agency provides, so I said I would print her contact information in this article: Danielle Schneider, Cayuga/Seneca Community Action Agency, 89 York St., Suite 1, Auburn; (315) 255-1703 ext. 237; dschneider@cscaa.com. Please contact her. Many hungry children need our help. AUBURN When Cynthia Jedra was arrested in 2016, the Cayuga County district attorney said police were shocked to find hundreds of doses of synthetic fentanyl at her Auburn residence. There were also several glassine envelopes of heroin, more than 30 pounds of marijuana and various drug paraphernalia throughout the home. Jedra, of 35 Quill Ave. Apt. X317, was initially indicted and charged with five felonies, including criminal sale and possession of narcotics and marijuana. However, in July, the 50-year-old pleaded guilty to one count of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class B felony, in full satisfaction of the indictment. On Tuesday, Jedra appeared in Cayuga County criminal court for sentencing, and District Attorney Jon Budelmann described exactly what police found when they searched Jedra's apartment at Oak Creek Townhomes last year. According to Budelmann, Jedra was living with three of her children at the time, one of which was a minor. Her oldest son, Alexander Temple, also pleaded guilty to selling heroin out of the home. "It was a regular (drug) processing place," Budelmann said, noting that officers discovered two ounces of synthetic fentanyl and 32 1/2 pounds of marijuana at the residence. "There were literally hundreds if not thousands of doses of fentanyl, which is 50 percent stronger than heroin." That fentanyl was allegedly shipped from China directly to Jedra's home. As a result of her international dealings, Budelmann said Jedra is facing charges in federal court, as well. But according to Jedra's defense attorney, Charles Thomas, Jedra was more of a drug user than a dealer. In a pre-sentence report, Jedra claimed she was prescribed opiates for a back injury in the late 1990s. It wasn't until 2016 when her doctor abruptly stopped her prescription that Jedra said she turned to heroin, which she then sold to support her own addiction. And as far as the marijuana was concerned, Jedra said she didn't know it was there, believing it had been disposed of years ago. "The marijuana was in a box in storage," Thomas said. "It was six years old ... and it was of no use to anybody." Since her plea, Thomas said Jedra has been moved into a halfway house in Wayne County, seeking treatment for her addiction. She cried Tuesday as she apologized to Judge Mark Fandrich in court. "Looking at my face in the mirror is difficult, because I'm 50 years old and I should know better," she said. "I'm so ashamed." Fandrich ultimately sentenced Jedra to shock probation. She was given credit for time served in Cayuga County Jail and ordered to successfully complete felony drug court in Auburn. In addition, Jedra will have to pay $140 in restitution the money she received from two sales of heroin last summer. "If she screws up in drug court, we're not giving her any more chances," Budelmann said. "I hope you take advantage of the opportunity that we have given you," Fandrich added. Also in court: An Auburn man appeared in court Tuesday for violating the terms and conditions of his probation. Dequan Wilson, 25, of 18 Baker Ave. Apt. 3, was placed on five years probation in April 2016 after being convicted of third-degree criminal sale of marijuana and endangering the welfare of a child. But Budelmann said Wilson has violated three conditions of his probation: failure to pay restitution, drinking alcohol and getting into further trouble with the law. In August, Wilson was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated and third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, both misdemeanors. According to the district attorney, Wilson's blood alcohol content was .15 percent at the time. In addition, Budelmann said Wilson has only made four small payments toward his restitution and still owes nearly $500. "The greatest concern is he is out driving behind the wheel while intoxicated," he said. "He's drinking to excess ... and he is putting others at risk." Judge Fandrich entered a denial to the violation on Wilson's behalf, allowing Wilson the opportunity to seek assigned council. He then remanded Wilson to Cayuga County Jail in lieu of $750 cash or $1,500 bond. Wilson was scheduled to return to Cayuga County Court Oct. 31. He was also due back in Aurelius Town Court for the DWI charge Oct. 25. On Wednesday, the Chinese President will kick off the biggest and most-watched event in China's political calendar: The 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. This twice-a-decade meeting is akin to a closed-door election, and will see President Xi formally granted a second five-year term as the party's general secretary and a new generation of senior Chinese leaders anointed. The week-long session, which opens with a key speech by Xi, will also chart the country's future course in a world where China's reach is now extending -- and being felt -- further than ever before. At stake, analysts say, is Xi's vision and legacy. Here's why you should be paying attention. Cult of Xi The congress is being seen, in and outside of China, as a referendum on Xi's success in positioning himself as China's unquestioned political supremo, says Christopher Johnson, the Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. With what Johnson describes as "political shock and awe," Xi has taken down senior leaders in his anti-corruption drive, launched an unprecedented crackdown on free speech, and radically overhauled the People's Liberation Army, the world's largest fighting force. At the congress, Xi may cement his standing by revising the party charter to include "Xi Jinping Thought" as one of the party's guiding theories, elevating his stature to that of Chairman Mao Zedong who founded the People's Republic of China in 1949. China's previous two presidents haven't had their ideas enshrined in the constitution in this way. Some have speculated that Xi may also seek to stay in power beyond 2022, breaking a tradition followed by his two predecessors and emulating Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Wherever one looks, Xi seems to be at center vision in modern China. The only issue is whether one person can really extend their influence over such a wide area," said Kerry Brown, a professor of Chinese Politics at King's College London. Why does it matter to the rest of the world? With Xi expected to emerge from the congress stronger than ever, the world will likely see China continue to step into a global leadership vacuum as the US turns inward under President Donald Trump. In his first five years in power, Xi eschewed the cautious foreign policy that had been a hallmark of his predecessors. He's overseen the development of China's first overseas military base, backed a military buildup in the South China Sea and has unveiled a grand plan for the world economy that has China front and center. So far China has more or less stuck to global norms -- but an emboldened Xi could change this approach in ways that may put China at odds with the existing international order and the US, which badly needs China's help reining in North Korea. The first test of how this will play out comes in November, when Xi hosts Trump on his inaugural visit to Asia. It's China's 'Game of Thrones' The congress opens on October 18 at the Great Hall of the People in Tiananmen Square, in the heart of Beijing. It's attended by 2,287 delegates from around the country who represent nearly 90 million party members. They are set to elect a new leadership for the next five years, including the now seven-strong Politburo Standing Committee, whose members effectively rule China. But most, if not all, of the outcomes are predetermined after a long period of secretive bargaining between party power brokers. While there's little doubt that Xi's grip on the top job is iron clad, the Party isn't monolithic and different factions vie for power. Who is admitted to the politburo and its standing committee will show which group is in the ascendant. Recent conventions, although not a hard and fast rule, have suggested that if members are above 68, they will retire. However, there have been suggestions that Wang Qishan, Xi's right-hand man in his anti-corruption drive, may stay on even though he's 69. If Wang keeps his place in the standing committee, it will be a telling symbol of Xi's sway. "Wang led the corruption crackdown, he's clearly a trusted ally. It would be surprising if he was to entirely disappear," said Christopher Balding, a professor of economics at Peking University's Shenzhen Graduate School. Balding says he will primarily be looking to see if there's an "infusion of younger talent" into the powerful committee that sits atop the Chinese system -- a signal that Xi would look to step down at the end of the next five-year term. "If it's the older crowd, it's a sign Xi could be staying on," he said. The crunch moment will come at the end of the congress, when the Politburo Standing Committee, led by Xi, strides out onto the stage of the Great Hall of the People in a carefully choreographed performance of political pomp. Will North Korea poop the party? China's unpredictable and unruly neighbor is the one factor that could disrupt the proceedings. North Korea has a track record of provoking its only real ally during key high-profile events, firing off missiles during last year's G20 meeting in Hangzhou, during the One Belt One Road forum in May, and again during the BRICS summit in Xiamen in September. "Any kind of provocation would be considered a real affront to Xi," said Balding. However, Paul Haenle, at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Beijing, says that Pyongyang's "persistent disruptions of Xi's most important occasions in the international limelight are not deal breakers for Beijing." He says that Xi is likely to shrug off any provocation, barring the release of significant radioactive material or a test of a nuclear missile in the Pacific. "Such actions could bring chaos and therefore undermine the party's longevity and directly challenge China's interests -- Beijing's only true red line." Blue skies and granny spies Beijing, and the rest of the country, is already under extremely tight security as the congress gets underway. Passengers arriving at Beijing's railway stations face extended security checks, according to the Beijing Daily News, and China's uniformed and plainclothes police, as well as its army of granny spies (think neighborhood watch on a huge, coordinated scale) will be out in force to ensure the event goes off without a hitch. Some bars and clubs have been ordered to close for the session, and some small businesses have shut, with the extra security likely to deter customers and make commuting difficult for employees. Already-strict internet censorship has been ratcheted up, with China this year slamming shut loopholes in its sophisticated "Great Firewall." WhatsApp has suffered serious disruption in China and there's been widespread deletion of "sensitive content" on social media. But Beijing residents may be thankful for one potential upside to the congress: As during other high-profile and politically sensitive events, officials are trying to create blue skies and clean air by shutting down factories and restricting traffic. CNN's Ben Westcott in Hong Kong and Yuli Yang and Steven Jiang in Beijing contributed to this report All of our previous presidents knew how to talk to friend and foe alike and they all acted in a well-thought-out, responsible manner. Trump is a loose cannon and the Republican Party is saying and doing nothing. Were deporting people that should be given a chance at citizenship and the Justice Department is trying to drag us back to the 1950s. After the Las Vegas shooting, Mitch McConnell said the Democrats were playing politics in calling for a gun control debate. Simply stated there is and never has been anything more politically motivated than today's GOP and McConnnells remarks are more than disingenuous. After the pounding the Republicans took in 2008 they went about state by state gerrymandering every district they possibly could and they did a pretty good job if it. The politically active Supreme Court, led by Antonin Scalia, all but nullified the Voting Rights Act of 1965, making it possible for red states to pass voting laws with the intent of suppressing the vote of African and Hispanic Americans. Further this same court approved Citizen United, allowing billions in dark money to flow to conservative candidates and causes. Moving on, at the end of Obama's second term, the GOP refused to approve his nomination of Merrick Garland to fill Scalia's seat on the Supreme Court, so in actuality they stole a seat in a move that was strictly to their political advantage. Right now if Trump were a Democrat, the Republicans would have the articles of impeachment in process. Rex Tillerson apparently called Trump a moron. To coin an old truism, If the shoe fits!" Ive written to Congressman John Katko twice expressing my concern about the way the president acts and the outrageous things he says. Trump's address at the UN was the worst speech I have ever heard a U.S. president give and on a par with all the bombast coming out of North Korea. Katko never answered my questions or addressed my concerns. The GOP is following its own ideological agenda at the expense of all of us, the president is out of his mind and our local representative wont answer emails. The entire GOP, the president and our own congressman are totally out of touch with reality. What is that reality? As a nation we are in big, big trouble. Ernie DeCaro Auburn Jika Anda mencari situs web sbobet88 login yang andal dan aman untuk bermain poker online, permainan kasino, dan bentuk perjudian lainnya, Anda telah datang ke tempat yang tepat. Situs web kami menampilkan daftar lengkap permainan, opsi pembayaran, dan lainnya untuk memastikan Anda bersenang-senang saat bermain. 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Baik Anda seorang veteran atau baru memulai, adalah tempat terbaik untuk bermain. Shanghai (Gasgoo)-If GAC Mitsubishi was established five years earlier, it would have a better development. Masuko Osamu, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors expressed his pity on the GAC Mitsubishis 5th anniversary celebration. In fact, GAC Mitsubishi has a total sales volume of 81,339 units from January to September this year with a year-on-year growth of 199%, far beyond the average growth of domestic auto market. It will easily accomplish the annual sales target of 100,000 units. Two reasons may account for the CEOs regret. First, Mitsubishi later entrance into China market made it impossible to cover the complete window and bonus periods of SUV markets. SUV market has an uncertain future under the current dual-credit scheme. Besides, the late coming results in small sales volume. Currently, the annual sales volume of GAC Mitsubishi reaches 100,000 units, far behind from the first class brands. Masuko Osamu revealed that it will accelerate to introduce products into domestic market in the future five years, while keeping strengths in SUV, four-wheel drives and electric motors. Chinese market is an important pillar market for Mitsubishi Motors, and GAC Mitsubishi is the key brand for domestic market. According to Masuko Osamu, GAC Mitsubishi will announce its mid-term plan in the near future. But he also emphasizes that the steps would be controlled to avoid ever possible setbacks. Its explained that alternative energy vehicles have not been produced for the immature battery technologies, non-existed charging infrastructure and unclear national policies at that time. In the future, Mitsubishi plans to invest in EV, PHEV models in the domestic market, but sizes have not been decided yet. Using up precious cocaine earmarked for white children. If you're wondering what happened to the "black people gain drug-based superpowers and use them to commit crime" chapter of your history book, then obvious spoiler alert: It wasn't really happening. What was happening was that cocaine use among black laborers was widespread. Its recreational use was tolerated, and sometimes white employers were explicitly giving it to their workers, in both cases because they believed it would make the employees work harder. We, uh ... we used to be pretty dumb when it came to drugs. Somehow, the "let's give our workers coke" strategy backfired, as ridiculous stories began to spread. In 1914, The New York Times ran an article claiming that "most of the attacks upon white women of the South are the direct result of the 'cocaine-crazed' Negro brain" and "Negro cocaine fiends are now a known Southern menace." While "Negro Cocaine Fiends" would be a great ironic album title, there was, shockingly, no evidence of crazed black people running wild. Continue Reading Below Advertisement While widespread use of cocaine probably wasn't great for anyone's disposition, "news" reports claimed that cocaine made black men hallucinate taunts and abuse, as well as gain incredible accuracy with guns and immunity to bullet wounds which would stop or kill a sober man. Holy shit! Why wasn't cocaine being used in secret supersoldier projects? Oh, right, because it was all bullshit. But the 1914 ban was passed anyway thanks to those myths, and not out of fact-based concerns about the health risks of cocaine. (Because white people could handle their coke, goddammit!) If you want a silver lining, the ban largely put a stop to lynchings of black men based on the "We think he's high on coke, so he probably raped someone or whatever" clause. It also, uh, fueled nasty, often lethal stereotypes about impoverished minorities and drugs for decades to come, but that's something, right? Shanghai (Gasgoo)- FAW Volkswagen Tianjin factory officially started construction on May 18th last year. According to plan, the fifth FAW Volkswagen factory will be put into production next year, since the main project construction is coming to an end. Currently, FAW Volkswagen has four vehicle manufacturing plants. Once the fifth one begins production, the joint ventures annual capacity will be up to 3m units. Its known that Tianjin factory will have an annual capacity of 300,000 units after completion with annual sales revenue reaching RMB 55b and staff number exceeding 6,000. Its also predicted that nearly 40 part providers will locate in Tianjin and their total production value would reach RMB 30b to 40b when mass production is achieved. Tianjin NDRC released its project plan for Volkswagen transmission DQ400e on September 28th with a total investment of RMB 281.3m and an annual capacity of 180,000 units for two periods. Volkswagen Tianjin company, registered on July 16, 2012, is responsible for producing several transmission projects including DQ380, DQ500, DL382, DQ381 and DQ400e. In the meantime, Volkswagen Tianjin also introduces the high-technology new pure power motor project APP 290 from Germany with a total investment of RMB 1.149b. The project will be put into production in December, 2018, with an annual capacity of 120,000 units, which is an important part of Volkswagen Groups pure power motor strategy in domestic market. Virtualization News VMware Channel Chief Rauch Touts 'Triple-Digit Growth Opportunities' For Partners In NSX, vSAN Matt Brown Share this VMware channel chief Frank Rauch said the company is putting more channel muscle behind efforts to capitalize on the success of its emerging software-defined technologies. "If [partners] want to get into triple-digit-type growth opportunities, NSX, vSAN and some of the other technologies we've announced like PKS and AppDefense we afford [them] that ability," Rauch told CRN. "We're trying to open up the margin envelope by enabling them to be able to do services. We're hardening that process so it's absolutely clear and we're trying to be able to make it affordable and available." Rauch, vice president of the Americas Partner Organization, and his team have in recent months established initiatives designed to make it easier for partners to learn about, master and sell VMware's emerging technologies, like NSX software-defined networking solutions and vSAN hyper-converged infrastructure software. [Related: A Brave New World: Pat Gelsinger Leads VMware Into The Multi-Cloud Era] The margin opportunities on those products can push into the 20-point range, Rauch said. NSX and vSAN also represent VMware's future as the market for the company's traditional virtualization software declines, which makes it imperative that the company effectively arm partners for life in the software-defined trenches. "We've made a really, really big push to enable our partners in a way that we've done before, but not at the velocity we've done it, and not at the investment that we've done it," Rauch said. VMware already has a Partner Professional Services Program in place to offer partners training and sales support. However, Rauch said that when it comes to VMware's "nascent technologies" like NSX, the program wasn't enough. The result is a new program called the Last Mile, which allows partners to shadow high-level VMware practice architects as they deploy NSX for customers, Rauch said. This gives partners a more thorough view of the technology and better enables them to sell virtual network assessment, monitoring services, deployment services and ongoing support. "[Partners] always had the opportunity to go in with sales, or the systems engineer, into an account," Rauch explained. "That still exists, and more than it ever did. What Last Mile does is takes it to the next level. Now we have a formalized program in place where the partners willing to commit the right level of investment have the ability to shadow the Level 300 and Level 400 guys on actually deploying NSX." For Rauch, the "right level of investment," means getting certified in VMware's Partner Professional Services Program. "It's traditional VMware partners like you'd expect, like a WWT or Presidio, and new guys are jumping on the scene as well who are more security-oriented, or network-oriented who have not traditionally been VMware houses," Rauch said. The Last Mile initiative has been in place for a couple of months, Rauch said, and another initiative, which Rauch called a VMware "university," is just getting under way and hasn't launched officially. The university is a "brick-and-mortar" facility in VMware's home city of Palo Alto, Calif., and it is intended to offer training for both VMware partners and internal personnel. Its inaugural class will work through the course over the next few months, Rauch said. The university and the Last Mile initiative go hand in hand with a general effort on Rauch's part to make training more affordable for partners, he said. "We're looking at the total cost envelope and we continue to try to optimize it," Rauch said. "It's in our best interest to have a number of partners committed to this game, and the cost of training -- we're going to try to reduce that in any way possible." The latest channel initiatives come as VMware saw first-half revenue growth that topped 12 percent year over year. NSX is on a $1 billion annual run rate, according to Rauch, and vSAN how has 10,000 customers as its sales cycle compresses to about 90 days and 40 percent of customers who buy it buy it again within six months. Scott Miller, data center director at St. Louis-based solution provider powerhouse World Wide Technology, said VMware is making smart and valuable moves in the channel since its former parent company, EMC, was acquired by Dell about a year ago. The Last Mile program and the VMware university are being introduced on top of a new enterprise licensing agreement strategy introduced in August that allows Dell EMC Titanium and Titanium Black partners to procure VMware on Dell EMC paper while earning incentives from both companies' programs. Now, Miller said WWT is expecting as much as 50 percent year-over-year growth in its VMware business, thanks in part to what he called "a huge pickup with vSAN." "The changes they made with spiffing the sales teams to counter the channel tax and making Dell EMC an option as a [distributor] has made it easier and more profitable to team with them in the channel," Miller said. Connecticut residents can raise money for storm-battered Puerto Rico while enjoying cuisine inspired by the island next week during the CT Loves Puerto Rico initiative. More than 60 restaurants spanning southwestern Connecticut and the shoreline and up to the Hartford area are participating in the weeklong fundraiser, which will run from Saturday, Oct. 21 through Saturday, Oct. 28. Each eatery will add a Puerto Rican dish or drink to the menu, and 100 percent of the proceeds from those special items will be donated to the United for Puerto Rico fund. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate BRIDGEPORT Perhaps theyre taking their cues from the 1973 New York Mets. You know, with Tug McGraw, the Mets closer, rallying his mates with Ya Gotta Believe and Manager Yogi Berra telling the press Its aint over till its over. On Monday afternoon, Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim and New Haven Mayor Toni Harp announced they are pressing forward with a joint proposal to lure Amazon and its second national headquarters, along with 50,000 jobs, to Bridgehaven. They are offering 8 million square feet of space in one city or the other or even 8 million in each. This gets filed today, Ganim told city officials, business and community leaders and the media during a lunchtime press conference in the Margaret Morton Government Center. We are going to be the first applicant ... in the country to file with Amazon ... We want to show that not only are we comprehensive, but were nimble and were quick, and we work hard and were taking this seriously. In addition to the two mayors, Matthew Nemerson and Thomas Gill the economic development directors of New Haven and Bridgeport, respectively Matthew Fulda, executive director of the Connecticut Metropolitan Council of Governments, and Mickey Herbert, the head of the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, touted the benefits of the combined offer. The Bridgeport/New Haven selling points include closeness to New York and Boston, numerous shipping options and a diverse population near 17 universities. Ganim said those universities could offer curriculum designed to prepare Amazons planned 50,000 white-collar hires. Mondays announcement came after Jim Watson, a spokesman for the state Department of Economic and Community Development, told Hearst Connecticut Media in an email last week that Amazon told the state that splitting the headquarters between two cities would not be acceptable ... and therefore cannot be included in the states final application. Watson could not be reached by phone Monday, nor did he return an email for comment on the revised Bridgeport-New Haven plan. Harp, who was a state legislator before becoming mayor, took issue Monday with the Hartford recommendation. The state of Connecticut has consistently invested by that I mean the apparatus of the state of Connecticut in Hartford and theyve invested in other places, Harp said. And if you look at what is happening in Hartford, youve got to ask yourself why they dont invest in us. Hartford is in danger of bankruptcy. I think Hartford has had its time hundreds of millions of dollars of investment, Harp said. Now its time for our area. Were doing it on our own...We just need a little bit of help from the state. We expect that when we make that cut, well get the help.. Amazon imposed an Oct. 19 deadline for host-site applications and intends to make a decision next year on their new site. HARTFORD Wednesday will be the make-or-break day for the long-simmering negotiations over the state budget. Legislative leaders made that announcement at about 6 p.m. Tuesday, stressing that after going line-by-line through about 1,000 pages of budget language, its down to about 10 sensitive issues that they will discuss between 9:30 and 2:30 on Wednesday then announce to reporters that they either have a deal or they dont. I think the last week has been the most productive, in this building, that weve had all year long, said House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, R-Derby. The conclusion will be the conclusion. I think we all have hope that we can come to agreement on something thats best for the state. But its always the last couple of things that are the most difficult that you always put off to the end, when you can try and get through the easy stuff. Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven, said that on Tuesday, the bipartisan group of House and Senate leaders and their staffs looked at Republican and Democratic budget items that key committee chairmen were unable to resolve last week and over the weekend. We had a painstaking day when we went through a lot of that, and I think on a large number of issues we got resolution, so it was an encouraging day, Looney said. Speaker of the House Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin, said that even though Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has not been in the meetings, his feelings on various issues including public pronouncements and his veto message from earlier in the month have been taken into account. In some cases we said we understand his objection and we still move forward; in other areas we said yeah, its a fair objection, yes try to go the other way, Aresimowicz said. Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, said the groups goal is to have a decision by 2:30 p.m. Wednesday. He said that a list of about 10 items has to be hammered out. From where we started to where we are is a huge, huge, monumental movement, Fasano said. Meanwhile, Malloy on Tuesday released an actuarial study of Republican plans to change the state employee retirement plan, charging that a projected $51 million savings on overtime calculations would actually save $5 million over the two-year budget that started July 1. Other planned savings would result in lawsuits by public worker unions, Malloy told reporters in a hastily called news conference at 4 p.m. We already knew that the illegal pension scheme proposed in the Republican budget would lead to a lengthy legal battle, eventually costing Connecticut taxpayers billions of dollars, Malloy said. No one wants to lose on a billion-dollar gamble, especially when the bill would be paid by our constituents, their children and their grandchildren. Republicans had projected savings of $144 million in the first year of the biennium and nearly $178 million in the second year. Those numbers are unattainable for legal reasons, Malloy said, adding that many lawmakers who supported the recently vetoed Republican budget were unaware that the plan included taking away benefits from fully vested state employees who would be protected by contractual commitments until at least 2027. In response, Klarides criticized Malloy. The governor is now calling into question the initial actuarial analysis that state actuaries undertook to assess the Republican budget proposal that was passed in a bipartisan manner, she said. Now, in an attempt to inject himself into our negotiations, he is trying to dispute the initial findings which show that hundreds of millions can be saved by making long-term structural changes in the state employee pension plan beginning in in 2027. The analysis we got from the actuaries were his actuaries, she said of Malloy. Malloy vetoed the GOP budget earlier this month. Last month it passed the Senate 21-15, with three Democratic votes. It cleared the House 77-73, with five Democrats. Connecticut has been without a budget since July 1 and is the last state to adopt a spending plan. kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT MILFORDA West Haven woman allegedly stole a sweater from Macys just hours after she was charged in other thefts. Jazmin McGhee, 32, of West Haven, now faces charges connected to four alleged thefts. Milford Police said they first arrested her Oct. 12 at the Connecticut Post mall Macys, after she allegedly used a stolen credit card to buy $520 worth of merchandise there. Further investigation showed that McGhee had also stolen two pairs of sunglasses from the Sunglass Hut, in the amount of $810, according to a Milford Police arrest report. Police said McGhee was first released with a promise to appear, akin to a $0 bond. Several hours later MPD again responded to Macys for a shoplifter in custody, according to the report. She was charged with taking a $50 sweatshirt from the store, and was later released on a $500 bond. McGee faces one count of sixth-degree larceny and one count of criminal impersonation; two counts of fifth-degree larceny and two counts of credit card. She is scheduled for court Nov. 11. A 90-year-old Darien man was killed Sunday evening in a motor-vehicle accident on South Colony Road in Wallingford when his Audi collided with a Nissan. The operator of the 2016 Audi, Edward Carabillo, 90, of Raymond Street in Darien, was fatally injured as a result of this crash. The front seat passenger in the Audi, Natalie Einson, age 82, was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital where she is being evaluated for non-life-threatening injuries. The operator of the Nissan, Ronald Bonito, age 69, of Wallingford, suffered only minor injuries and was not transported from the scene. Lt. Anthony DeMaio said investigation, which is ongoing, showed that the Audi A3 Convertible operated by Carabillo was traveling westbound on Northfield Road just prior to the collision. The 2012 Nissan Titan, operated by Bonito, was traveling northbound on South Colony Road (Route 5) in the right most travel lane. Carabillo attempted to negotiate a left hand turn from Northfield Road, intending to travel south bound on South Colony Road. The collision occurred as Carabillos Audi entered the intersection and encountered the northbound Nissan Titan. Vehicular traffic was affected and this section of the roadway was closed for more than three hours to allow the Wallingford Police Department Traffic Division to reconstruct the collision. He is survived by a large family in Wallingford and outside the state, according to an obituary of his wife of 50 years, Nancy Carabillo, who died from an illness in 2001. Carabillo was born and raised in Connecticut, according to LexisNexis records. An Edward Carbillo from Darien was named as the last surviving brother of a Hartford family with four sons in an obituary of brother Dominick Carabillo, 94, of Windsor locks. Edward Carabillo lived on Raymond Street in Darien. He also owned a house in Westerly. R.I. a block away from Misquamicut State Beach. This investigation is continuing and any witnesses who may have seen this collision are encouraged to call Officer Anthony Baur at (203) 294-2817. ANSONIAThe suspected burglar of the Ansonia Mini-mart left two clues near the scene of the crimea van and a man. The break-in started some time before 3:26 Tuesday morning when police got a report from a resident that someone was trying to break into the store at 147 North Main Street. TUCSON Target shooting, hunting and fishing could be expanded on public lands under a federal proposal drawing attention in Arizona. United States Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke directed land managers to come up with a plan to expand recreational shooting in areas like Ironwood Forest National Monument in Tucson. Sitting at 129,000 acres, the monument is open to the public for hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding and sightseeing. It is currently not open for target shooting. The monument receives visitors daily in the form of bird watchers, students on field trips and environmentalists exploring the native vegetation. Supporters say it could mean more hunting and fishing opportunities on federal land. Opponents think it risks peoples safety and could trash some of natures most pristine areas. The potential is huge for Arizona. The federal government owns more than 38 percent of land in the state, or more than 28 million acres, according to Ballotpedia. The Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Park Service are among the agencies charged with coming up with a plan. Five Arizona residents who hunt or target shoot discussed the proposed expansion and shared their stories. THE HUNTER Jensen Thelander has been hunting since he was 10 years old, when his father gave him his first gun. Its second nature, Thelander said. The 21-year-old hunts a range of game, including coyotes, quail and elk. Theres no better way to get close with nature and be a part of nature than being outdoors hunting. He supports shooting, hunting and fishing on public lands, but said he has experienced difficulty getting access to some of public lands bordered by private property. Thelander said unless a hunter knows the landowner it is difficult to get through the property or go around it to reach public land. Hunters in Arizona and other parts of the country have to compete for game by buying hunting tags, with state officials choosing a limited number telling hunters what kind of game they can hunt and how many animals they can kill. Competition for hunting tags for big game like elk and bighorn sheep can be tough and, if there are too many hunters in one area, it makes it difficult for hunters to fulfill their allotment. Thelander and his friends, Colton Elmer and Sean Deacon, hunt around Arizona and think millennials like themselves enjoy hunting because of its rising presence on social media and new technologies like gun scopes that can see farther and clearer for more precise aim and heat sensing trail cameras that can track animals movement throughout the night. Thelander said hunting weapons and recreational weapons are different. There are different regulations for each. For example, there are military-grade guns that can be used in target shooting but not for hunting animals. Thelander and his friends said hunters need to follow a code of ethics when hunting. Taking down a majestic animal such as an elk requires a high caliber gun. A small caliber weapon could only injure the animal, causing suffering. THE ENVIRONMENTALIST Tom Hannagan, a hunter and president of Friends of Ironwood Forest, a nonprofit group that protects the recreational areas history and landscape, said expanding target shooting could interfere with hunting, scare away hikers and lead to more damage of hieroglyphics and native vegetation. Hannagan said recreational shooting hasnt been an issue due to a resource management plan by the Bureau of Land Management suggesting the national monument ban recreational shooting because of such concerns. It would be unfortunate to diminish a lot of other activities for that one activity, he said. Hannagan said the Interior Department order is puzzling because it says the point is to open public lands to more uses, but target shooting might impede that. Hunting is a stealthy sport that requires waiting for game to come by and only firing a few shots, he said. Multiple shots fired during target shooting could scare animals away from hunters. Hannagan said funding cuts for the Ironwood Forest are possible, which would mean less staff to oversee target shooting. If you have recreational shooting, its going to dissuade people from using the monument for other purposes, Hannagan said. The sound of shots firing can be frightening and could turn away potential campers and hikers, he said. Hannagan said people also have damaged native vegetation, rocks and hieroglyphics. THE INSTRUCTOR Thomas Wacker said he thinks opening up public lands for recreational shooting is a great idea as long as shooters are held accountable for shooting safely and responsibly. As a hunter and firearms instructor, Wacker said he always uses safety first when using his guns. It becomes sort of a ritual, Wacker said. He said to first treat every firearm as if it were loaded and check that the bolt where the bullets are placed is open and empty. He tests the scope on his gun to make sure it is accurate when he is shooting. And he makes sure that if anyone is with him they are behind the barrel of the gun. Wacker target practices on public lands such as Redington Pass in the Coronado National Forest. He started hunting when he was 10 years old, hunting pheasants, ducks and quail and has since added bigger game like deer. THE TARGET SHOOTER Dr. Richard Weyer, a retired dermatologist, says target shooting helps him recover from back surgery. I think recreational shooting is an excellent hobby, said Weyer, who shoots at the Southeastern Regional Park Shooting range in Tucson. Weyer supports shooting as an activity as long as shooters are following safety guidelines. Target shooting keeps his mind and body sharp. He will even change up the distance he shoots his targets at depending on how far he wants to walk to bring the paper target back to his station. He said it also helps with his hand-eye coordination and helps keep himself physically fit. He enjoys recreational shooting as well as occasionally hunting animals such as deer and antelope. THE OFFICIAL Mark Hart, spokesman for Tucsons Arizona Game and Fish Department, said the agency supports the expansion. We support the greatest amount of public access to public lands, Hart said. But the devils in the details. It will be up to those agencies to determine whether or not thats an appropriate use in those areas, Hart said. Hart said shooting ranges are the safest place to practice shooting, but there are public places where people can shoot firearms. Recreational shooting is allowed in Coronado National Forest as long as shooters follow regulations such as not shooting across or toward roads and not shooting native vegetation. A six-mile area in the national forest is closed to shooting because recreational shooters who used the area left behind trash, Hart said. He said there have been television sets left out that were used as targets as well as empty rounds and other debris. Hart said the department supports packing out what you pack in, and leaving the land in good condition. Harts biggest concern with the allowance of more recreational shooting is people leaving behind their trash and leftover bullet casings. Game and Fish has annual checkpoints to try to keep the land as clean as possible and will continue to do so if recreational shooting is expanded. Dont penalize responsible shooters for irresponsible ones, Hart said. Has Harvey Weinstein ever set foot in Wiltshire? I only ask because, if he has, how long before Chief Constable Mike Veale sends a copper to stand outside Swindon Odeon appealing for victims of the Hollywood mogul to come forward? Veale probably became terribly excited when he heard one of Weinstein's alleged assaults took place in the Beverly Wilshire hotel. No 't', admittedly, but close enough to Wiltshire to justify calling a press conference and scrambling the nonce squad. Now they've just about exhausted all lines of inquiry into lurid claims that former Prime Minister Ted Heath took part in serial Satanic sex crimes, Veale has to find them something else to do. Scotland Yard has already got in on the act, announcing it has launched an investigation into allegations that Weinstein sexually abused four women in Britain, including actress Lysette Anthony in the late Eighties. Scotland Yard has launched an investigation into allegations that Harvey Weinstein (pictured) sexually abused four women in the UK The time frame probably makes it a job for the 'historic' sex crimes mob. It'll be a relief for them to have a live one to investigate, given that so many of their previous targets have all been dead. But what is the Yard's involvement supposed to achieve? OK, so four of Weinstein's alleged assaults are said to have taken place on British soil. But the chances of him ever being brought here to stand trial are less than zero. He is an American citizen, living in America, facing accusations of sexual harassment and worse from just about every actress you've ever heard of and plenty you haven't. They include a woman who appeared in Smurfs 2. Where are they all coming from? Before the usual suspects start bouncing up and down, taking offence, don't bother. I'm not trying to make light of some of the more serious allegations. Look what happened to James Corden when he cracked a couple of harmless gags about the affair. One of the actresses involved called him a 'mother******g piglet'. Seems like a nice girl. No, this isn't about Harvey Weinstein, even though by his own admission he is a predatory slug. It's about police priorities in Britain. He's already being investigated by virtually every law enforcement agency in the United States the LAPD, the NYPD, CHiPs, the FBI, Law And Order SVU, Hill Street Blues, Cagney And Lacey, Hawaii Five-O. Weinstein is already being investigated by virtually every law enforcement agency in the United States Book him Danno! If he is eventually charged and convicted, he would serve at least 30 consecutive 100-year sentences in some kind of celebrity supermax prison. So what is Knacker of the Yard going to bring to the party? The Americans aren't going to extradite him to Britain to stand trial at the Old Bailey. Yes, the Met has a duty to take all allegations of sexual assault seriously. But they should tell Lysette Anthony and the other complainants that, unfortunately, they won't be getting their day in a British court. These women can, however, console themselves that if found guilty in America, Weinstein will spend the rest of his days behind bars, being nice to sexually frustrated Sons of Anarchy and some of the more unsavoury members of Black Lives Matter. So Regina v Harvey Weinstein can safely be left on file. No further action necessary. That's obviously not how the Yard sees it. No doubt the remnants of the Jimmy Savile Squad are already packing their swimming trunks and factor 50 sunscreen, and booking their Jolly Boys Outing to La-La Land. They will then spend several weeks, as a basis for negotiation, at the aforementioned, five-star Beverly Wilshire conducting exhaustive inquiries into the complaints against Weinstein. (I can personally recommend the hotel's in-house Wolfgang Puck steakhouse, chaps, particularly the 20oz bone-in ribeye. Go for the tempura onion rings, too, and a decent bottle of Napa Valley pinot noir, while stocks last. These California wildfires are going to play havoc with the 2017 vintage.) Think I'm exaggerating? It wasn't that long ago, Scotland Yard detectives flew all the way to Australia and back as part of the Rolf Harris investigation. There are claims he sexually abused four women in the UK, including actress Lysette Anthony (pictured) There's nothing the Old Bill likes more than a high-profile case, particularly if it involves sex and celebrity, plus the opportunity for foreign travel, running up the exes and claiming endless overtime. Timing, in policing as in comedy, is everything, though. And the announcement of the investigation into Weinstein coincides with the revelation that Scotland Yard has abandoned any pretence of tackling 'routine' crimes including burglaries, thefts and assaults. Under new guidelines, thousands of offences will no longer be investigated if they fail to meet certain criteria. Inquiries will be dropped unless the victim can positively identify the perpetrator, or there is conclusive CCTV evidence and easily obtainable forensics, and the lost property is worth more than 50. Otherwise, forget it. Actually, they've been doing something like this for 30-odd years. I've just found a piece I wrote for London's Evening Standard in 1988 about the Yard's new 'screening' process, which used similar rules to justify not investigating crimes such as burglary. The excuse, then as now, was to save money and free up more officers to investigate other offences. But often these everyday 'minor' crimes are those which concern the paying public most. There never seems to be any shortage of dosh when it comes to spending millions of pounds on pursuing innocent journalists for simply doing their job, or setting up task forces to investigate long-dead politicians and disc-jockeys falsely accused of sex crimes by chancers and fantasists. I have some sympathy for the Met, which is under constant political pressure and lumbered with the disproportionate costs of dealing with terrorism and mass demonstrations in London. But regional forces are equally guilty. Look at the small fortune Mike Veale's carrot-crunchers have wasted pursuing the ghost of Grocer Heath. Further west, a duty sergeant revealed that in Devon and Cornwall there are often times when no officers are available to answer 999 calls from the force's 523,000 residents because they are all attached to specialist units. Patrolling the streets and responding to emergencies are given low priority. Devon and Cornwall Plod may have deserved the benefit of the doubt had they not announced in the same week a crackdown on 'hate crime', to which they were devoting considerable manpower and money. Police officers these days seem to spend more time scouring the internet for 'inappropriate' comments than walking the beat. Weinstein was photographed next to President Bill Clinton in New York on October 25, 2000 Avon and Somerset has just disbanded its burglary squad, after managing to solve just 10 per cent of 70,522 break-ins reported, and failing to recover 40 million worth of stolen property. Forty million quid here, forty million there. It soon begins to add up. Burglary victims will be relieved to know Avon and Somerset yesterday announced a bold new initiative to crack down on 'gender-based hate crime', which it claims has increased by 41 per cent. Really? What this appears to mean is that instead of investigating burglaries they have decided to concentrate on advertising for people to report alleged 'hate crime'. As I have pointed out countless times, so-called 'hate crime' is a matter of opinion, not fact, in the eye of any beholder who chooses to make a vexatious complaint. The deliberately vague definition should be struck from the statute book. It should never take priority over genuine crimes. What could be more hateful than breaking into someone's home in the middle of the night and stealing their most valued possessions? No wonder so many women equate being burgled with being raped. Elsewhere, as the Mail reports exclusively today, the police have decided off their own bat effectively to decriminalise drugs crime. Hundreds of criminals caught cultivating cannabis are being let off with a caution despite supply and possession being punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Since when were the police given the power to act as judge and jury and decide which crimes they will and won't investigate? Still, at least we can sleep more easily in our beds knowing the Old Bill are cracking down on hate crime and sexually abusive Hollywood film producers. That will come as a great comfort when Scotland Yard's finest jet off to LA, leaving a trail of unsolved burglaries behind them. And at least Harvey Weinstein, unlike Jimmy Savile and Grocer Heath, is still alive. A sudden storm in the Alps shouldn't take anyone by surprise. But the EU's governing elite was utterly unprepared for the mighty thunderclap of the Austrian election on Sunday. It has ushered into power not only the youngest leader on the world stage, but one who is poised to form a government with a Far Right party one that was founded by a former Nazi which campaigned on an extreme nationalist, Eurosceptic and anti-immigration ticket. Indeed, the success of the centre-Right Christian Democrat Austrian People's Party (OVP) led by 31-year-old Sebastian Kurz is attributed in part to mimicking the Far Right Freedom Party's (FPO) stance on several issues including immigration while borrowing a Trumpism or two with a call-to-arms of 'Austrians First'. Brussels told Sebastian Kurz (pictured), who is poised to become the continent's youngest leader, that he must form a 'pro-European government' Celebrations in Vienna as news filters through about the far-right Freedom Party's faring in the polls Demonstrators hold a banner reading 'F**k Strache! - Refugees welcome' and posters reading 'Nazis out of parliament' as they protest a possible government participation of Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPO) led by Heinz-Christian Strache The leader of the right-wing Austrian Freedom Party (FPOe) Heinz-Christian Strache (centre) waves as he arrives for the FPOe's election party after the Austrian Federal Elections, in Vienna, Austria, October 15, 2017 Not for the first time in recent European history, it was a call that, allied to the promise of tougher policies on immigration, had enormous appeal to voters across the political spectrum disillusioned with the status quo, fearful of the future, and angry that their concerns were not being listened to. Initial results indicate the OVP and the FPO attracted more than 50 per cent of Austrians a staggering proportion who were voting against the European tradition of centre-party consensus. For the first time in Austria's political history, two Right-wing parties managed to increase their seats without taking votes from each other in a dramatic illustration of voters' desire for change. And the key issue? Migration. Last year, Austria's population of 8.7 million rose one per cent as tens of thousands of Iraqis, Syrians, Afghans arrived en masse via the so-called Balkans route. A coalition between the OVP and FPO will herald a new Right-wing alliance with Poland, Hungary and other Central European countries concerned about Muslim refugees. But whereas the European Commission holds the whip hand over recipients of EU subsidies in the old Communist countries, affluent Austria can't be similarly threatened. So if smug Eurocrats were shaken by the outcome of the German election last month, with the surge in support for the Far Right AfD another anti-immigration party then the events of the weekend are a seismic development. On top of Brexit, Catalonia's bid for independence, the growing discontent of Eastern European member states, and Greece's endless debt problems, Brussels now must contend with Austria's sudden transformation from model member to bad boy. And it is precisely the youth of the next Austrian Chancellor which is a factor that bewilders Brussels. Immersed in politics since the age of 17 when he joined the OVP, Sebastian Kurz ought to be the living embodiment of the European ideal, not least because he is too young to remember anything else. Decades of Euro-propaganda and the experience of growing up in the EU were supposed to have inoculated younger votes against the virus of nationalist nostalgia. Not so young Herr Kurz. The son of a teacher and a technician, Kurz was born in the Meidling district of Vienna where he still lives, and after military service attended law school but failed to graduate. Politics was his obsession and his meteoric rise through the OVP began when he became chairman of the youth wing before being made Austria's youngest departmental head at 27 in charge of integration. Three years later he was foreign minister the voice of Austria in the world. At first sight, in his smart but casual suits with his slicked-back hair and usually accompanied by his attractive girlfriend, Susanne Thier they've been together since he was 18 Roman Catholic Kurz looks to be the very model of modern Eurocrat. But his delinquency from an EU perspective was soon in evidence: he attacked Europe's open borders and plans to redistribute predominantly Muslim migrants around member states. He blamed Brussels for mishandling the British so that we ended up voting to leave the EU. And in the past year he oversaw the stationing of tanks and erection of barbed wire fences at the Brenner Pass to back up border controls to stop African and Middle Eastern migrants crossing the Alps from Italy. He also supported the Islamgesetz legislation that banned foreign funding of mosques and prohibited radical versions of the Koran, and claims to have been instrumental in the so-called burka ban. At the same time, Kurz built on his reputation as a canny political operator with a gift for eye-catching PR stunts; in the 2010 Viennese council elections he campaigned from cars branded Geilomobils geil means both 'cool' and 'horny' in German and handed out condoms on the street while talking about losing his virginity at 15. Austrian Foreign Minister and leader of the conservative Austrian Peoples Party (OeVP) Sebastian Kurz and his girlfriend Susanne Thier leave after casting their ballot in Austrian parliamentary elections on October 15, 2017 in Vienna, Austria When the election was called in May, Kurz seized his opportunity to makeover the OVP in his own image. The traditional colour black was dumped in favour of turquoise and it developed into a 'movement' centred around this leader who lived up to his nickname of Wunderwuzzi (boy who can perform miracles) with a pitch-perfect campaign that persuaded Austrians, especially the young voters, that he could deliver change. Restoring order and security were his watchwords and his manifesto called for illegal migration into Europe to be stopped, benefits cut for asylum seekers and a ban on welfare payments to non-Europeans unless they'd lived in Austria for five years. Of course, given Austria's grisly Nazi history, anything tinged with nationalism sets alarm-bells ringing. But it is not a return to the unholy past which Kurz represents, but a glimpse into an uncomfortable future as the FPO shares centre stage. During the election campaign, FPO members were spotted wearing a blue cornflower a secret symbol used by the Nazis when they were a banned party in Austria in the Thirties. Meanwhile, the party leader Heinz-Christian Strache, 48, now tipped to become vice- chancellor, stands accused in a new book called Silent Takeover, by Austrian writer Hans-Henning Scharsach of secretly masterminding a political coup by Austrian neo-Nazis, and of greeting other party members with a Hitler salute. The book claims he used to order his underlings to address him as 'Gauleiter' the term for the regional Nazi boss during Hitler's rule while one of his closest allies is accused of wanting to restore the Nazi Anschluss, the Austro-German 'union'. When he was 20, Strache was arrested for taking part in a march organised by a banned neo-Nazi movement modelled on the Hitler Youth. He has also been accused of thinly veiled anti-Semitism. Throughout his political career Strache has insisted he is not a Nazi, and that his actions have been misunderstood and misrepresented by his political opponents. The election shows how great a driver of votes is antagonism towards Muslims. Anti-Islam has a long history in Austria, from 1683 when the Turks besieged Vienna. And recently decades of migration from Turkey has changed the make-up of Vienna and other big cities with the growth of what the FPO describe as 'Muslim ghettos' populated by 'jihadists'. In a letter of congratulations, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker indirectly warned Mr Kurz about attaching himself with the Eurosceptic party founded by former Nazis In 2016, that surge of Syrian war refugees and other migrants reawakened half-forgotten nightmares of Muslim sieges. The mood-swing that saw more than half the voters back anti-immigration parties was more to do with Kurz's promise not to give in to Brussels on Muslim migration than nostalgia for Hitler. Maybe Brussels hopes to tame Kurz, but Wunderwuzzi knows his popularity could fade fast if he reneges on his electoral promises and drifts back to the centre. That is the hold the FPO now has over Austrian politics. Either they share power now or they'll increase their share of the vote even more dramatically next time because they would be the only opposition. And it is this which makes the Austrian election so destabilising for a wobbly EU where discontent with Brussels's agenda keeps bubbling to the surface. The new French President Emmanuel Macron was supposed to be the youthful face of the EU's future, but now in Kurz he has a rival almost a decade younger whose beliefs raise awkward questions about the whole direction of Europe. What is happening in Central Europe is not a literal turning back of the clock. The Brownshirts won't march through Vienna tomorrow. But what is coming is certainly not the cosy future the Euro-ideologues had anticipated. The consensus which Brussels is still trying to shore up is dead and gone, and a new Europe is emerging which the EU has not planned for. If Brussels sticks rigidly to an agenda that was never put to the voters, it risks seeing more and more politicians like Sebastian Kurz elected. His face is probably Europe's future, but it won't be a united Europe. MARK ALMOND is director of the Crisis Research Institute, Oxford. Many of us could be wearing the wrong bra size after neglecting to get properly measured, and now it turns out you're probably putting your lingerie on the wrong way too. Activist and writer Brittany Packnett felt compelled to alert her Twitter followers after reading a label on a new bra that indicated the correct way to put on underwear. Rather than fastening the hooks at the front and swivelling it round, the instructions ordered the wearer to put on the bra and then reach behind you to close it on the loosest fastening. While many people fasten their bra facing to the front and then swivel it round and pull it up over your breasts, the label said it should go on over the breasts. You then should 'gather' or tuck each one into the cups to make sure you feel comfortable and supported. Finally, the straps should be tightened every other month, according to San Francisco-based lingerie brand ThirdLove. Scroll down for video Brittany Packnett was shocked to find this label on a new bra from San Francisco-based ThirdLove, indicating she's been putting on her underwear wrong for years Brittany Packett admitted her mind was blown after discovering she's been putting her bra on all wrong Fastening a bra on the loosest hook means you can move to the tighter clasps as the bra stretches out and Courtney admitted her mind was blown by the discovery, saying: 'My whole post-pubescent life has been a lie.' At first she'd scoffed at the instructions, but then decided to try out the loosest clasp on her new bra and do the breast placement. She insisted that it wasn't any kind of ad for the brand but was genuinely impressed. 'Im going to give it a full day test, but this far, this bra is everything and I can hardly feel it,' she said. Followers were impressed by Courtney's newfound knowledge, saying they too hadn't been putting their bras on the right way A follower chimed in to add that the band should go round in a straight line and not ride up the back Ghost Owl said that swivelling from the front is a bad idea as it will wear out the material faster It's not the first time that ThirdLove has revolutionised the process of finding underwear. Last year the retailer revealed that there are seven different types of breasts, including asymmetric and bell shaped. Its experts said that while finding the right cup size is important, it's equally crucial to take into account factors such as whether your breasts are long and slender, or gravitate towards the side of your chest when picking new lingerie. A single mother left on the brink of homelessness after a divorce has turned her life around by building her own tiny 3 x 6 metre home in her grandfather's backyard - for less than $13,000. Charlotte Sapwell, 27, was out of options and had nowhere for her children to sleep following a marriage breakdown - but refused to be saddled with a $400,000 home loan. The mother-of-two from Ballarat, Victoria, worked tirelessly with her grandfather for five months to construct the budget cosy space which she and her two young sons, aged two and six, now call home. A woman left penniless and on the brink of homelessness built her own tiny home (pictured) for under $13,000 Charlotte Sapwell, 27, refused to be saddled with a $400,000 home loan so took things into her own hands The 27-year-old woman from Ballarat, Victoria built the tiny space with her own two hands 'It was originally only going to be a short term accommodation, but I am loving it more than I ever thought I could,' Charlotte told FEMAIL. 'I actually failed year nine woodwork - but now after I have built my own house you would have no idea.' Charlotte says she built 99 per cent of the 'cubby style' home herself - with the other one per cent helped by her handyman grandfather who loaned her the necessary cash. The pair sourced wood and other materials from Bunnings Warehouse and followed a strict budget of just under $13,000. And after only five months, Charlotte went from a struggling single mother who couldn't even afford rent, to a woman who owned her own home. Charlotte (pictured) says she built 99 per cent of the 'cubby style' home herself - with the other one per cent helped by her handyman grandfather who loaned her the necessary cash The pair sourced wood and other materials from Bunnings Warehouse and followed a strict budget of just under $13,000 After just five months, Charlotte went from a struggling single mother who couldn't even afford rent, to a woman who owned her own home Charlotte took a small loan from her grandfather and turned it into a cosy home for her two children 'I went from living in a massive home with my husband and kids, to a tiny rented unit to this small space, and out of all the places I've lived this is my favourite,' she said. 'It is all mine. The kids are right there all the time and we are so close. Yes it means we have virtually zero privacy from each other but I love it.' The tiny home is made out of a combined lounge room, kitchen, dining room and a main bedroom where Charlotte sleeps while her two sons sleep in a separate bedroom. A small amount of the single mother's home was funded by selling extra belongings on Gumtree, but she admits to splurging on 'luxury' linoleum flooring for the interior. Her impressively tight budget was well spent on construction, insulation, furnishings and decoration - sourced from IKEA and Kmart - and Charlotte now enjoys her newfound 'minimalist' lifestyle. The tiny home is made out of a combined lounge room, kitchen, dining room and a main bedroom where Charlotte sleeps while her two sons sleep in a separate bedroom (pictured) A small amount of the single mother's home was funded by selling extra belongings on Gumtree, but she admits to splurging on 'luxury' linoleum flooring for the interior (Pictured is Charlotte's two sons) Her impressively tight budget was well spent on construction, insulation, furnishings and decoration - sourced from IKEA and Kmart - and Charlotte now enjoys her newfound 'minimalist' lifestyle 'It is all mine. The kids are right there all the time and we are so close. Yes it means we have virtually zero privacy from each other but I love it,' Charlotte (pictured) said 'I don't know how long we will stay in this space, but I can't imagine living anywhere else but a tiny home now. I've learned to appreciate what I have and embrace minimalism,' she explained. Charlotte is now in the process of building another tiny home for her grandmother which will serve as the prototype for any future endeavours. She says her confidence has skyrocketed and hopes to one day start her own business building and selling tiny properties. 'I just want other females to know they are capable of anything,' Charlotte said. 'And I want my boys to know - it doesn't matter if you are a boy or girl, anyone can build their future.' Charlotte sourced most of her interior furnishings from IKEA and Kmart (Pictured is her kitchen) As the end of the year draws ever closer, many start planning their next holiday. And while some know exactly where they want to go, others spend weeks or even months debating where they should jet off to next. So, to make the process a little easier, Hollywood astrologer Nicolas Aujula has revealed the must-see destinations for every star sign. Here, FEMAIL looks at what Nicolas has to say and why certain destinations are more suited to Virgos over Geminis. Hollywood astrologer Nicolas Aujula has revealed the must-see destinations for every star sign ARIES: ADVENTUROUS THEY LOVE: ROAD TRIPS, CAMPING, HEADING OFF THE BEATEN TRACK, ADRENALINE PUMPING EXPERIENCES Nicolas said those with an Aries star sign are always 'on-the-go in search of action and adventure'. 'The fiery Ram is always looking for their next adrenaline rush. Fiercely independent, you love to explore off the beaten tracks and soak up the thrills of every destination you visit,' he said. 'Rather than lazing around on a beach or hotel pool, you prefer a more active holiday break, such as rock climbing around the Grand Canyon, quad biking in the Arabian desert or a road trip on the famous route 66.' Nicolas said those with an Aries star sign are always 'on-the-go in search of action and adventure' TAURUS: LUXURIOUS THEY LOVE: CHIC HOTELS, MUSIC FESTIVALS, BEAUTIFUL SETTINGS, SPAS Taureans are lovers of the 'finer things in life'. 'You simply expect only the best when it comes to travel. Comfort is essential as you like to enjoy the cultural attractions of every city you visit, before unwinding in only the best and finest hotels every destination has to offer,' Nicolas said. 'These five star hotels and award-winning restaurants which serve only the finest food and wine, is a staple of every holiday. 'You will opt for an Italian Tuscan villa, a vineyard retreat in the Napa Valley or a five star hotel overlooking St Barts beach in the Caribbean.' Taureans are lovers of the 'finer things in life' GEMINI: VERSATILITY THEY LOVE: CITY HOPPING, LEARNING NEW THINGS, MEETING LOCALS, TOURS 'Impulsive and restless, Gemini craves spontaneity and is always on the go,' Nicolas said. 'Suited to holidays which soak up the fast-lane and offer plenty of activity, you stick to the hustle and bustle of big cities like New York or Tokyo. 'You like to visit destinations that keep you stimulated till the early hours and are easily bored, so you require destinations with a big social scene to make new friends and mingle with the locals.' 'Impulsive and restless, Gemini craves spontaneity and is always on the go,' Nicolas said CANCER: COMFORT THEY LOVE: NOSTALGIC DESTINATIONS, WATER, HISTORY, SIGHTSEEING 'A lover of the past and early childhood memories by the beach, you love to explore places by the sea where you can relax and unwind,' Nicolas said. 'Locations stepped in history will allow you to explore the sights and artifacts of yesteryear. ' 'Your dream holiday is soaking in the ancients sights of Rome while you enjoy the many nearby oceans and beaches to relax and unwind. 'Rustic hotels and homely pleasures are essential to make you comfortable.' 'A lover of the past and early childhood memories by the beach, you love to explore places by the sea where you can relax and unwind,' Nicolas said LEO: HIGH CLASS THEY LOVE: CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, ARTS SCENE, OVER THE TOP EXPERIENCES, SOPHISTICATED DINING Leos are lovers of 'all things glamorous'. 'The Leo has to fly first class and stay in opulent hotels where you can be pampered like royalty,' Nicolas said. 'A lover of the sun there is nothing like lying on the beach in the glitzy cities of Los Angeles or Miami, topped by nights at the hottest clubs and restaurants where you feel like an A-lister. 'Be over the top with hot air balloon rides, a chaffered limousine and VIP access to events.' Leos are lovers of 'all things glamorous' and are suited to the likes of Miami or LA VIRGO: EXPERIENCE ORIENTATED THEY LOVE: ARCHITECTURE, MUSEUMS, TOURS, WELLBEING Virgos love a well-planned getaway. 'Tours and detailed itineraries are key to combine a mix of sightseeing, fact finding, well-being and a bit of fun,' Nicolas said. 'Walking boots are essential as you'll cover a lot of ground. 'You opt to relax and unwind, and can improve your health at the ayurvedic spas of South India as you immerse yourself in this calm and tranquil part of the country.' Virgos love a well-planned getaway with Nicolas recommending South India LIBRA: BEAUTY THEY LOVE: BOUTIQUES, SCENERY, NIGHT LIFE, FINE LIVING According to Nicolas, Librans are 'social butterflies' who 'prefer to see the world with either a partner or a group of friends'. They also love 'making new connections at local events or a citys vibrant arts and theatre scene'. 'A holiday must be beautiful from every angle from luxurious hotel suites, fine wines and artisan food, with opulent Dubai perfect to live lavishly while overseas,' Nicolas said. According to Nicolas, Librans are 'social butterflies' who 'prefer to see the world with either a partner or a group of friends' - ideally in Dubai SCORPIO: PRIVACY THEY LOVE: RETREATS, SECLUDED BEACHES, RIVERS 'With a desire for privacy and unusual life experiences, you are suited to glamping in the wilderness whilst still retaining your love of comfort, as being by watery retreats has a soothing effect on your soul,' Nicolas said. 'You opt for the islands around Indonesia where the people compliment your passionate nature, as you spend your days enjoying snorkelling in the deep waters, lazing on the beach and reconnecting with nature.' 'With a desire for privacy and unusual life experiences, you are suited to glamping in the wilderness whilst still retaining your love of comfort, as being by watery retreats has a soothing effect on your soul,' Nicolas said of Scorpios SAGITTARIUS: EXPANSIVE THEY LOVE: UNEXPLORED TERRITORY, NATIONAL PARKS, HISTORY, SPONTANEITY 'You wish to hit the road in search of new adventures to explore where others don't,' Nicolas said. 'All you need is a rucksack and a tent as setting off to far away unexplored places is your travelling dream. 'Whether it's opting for the wilds of Northern Canada, to the monasteries of the Himalayas or backpacking the old silk route, you prefer camping or home stays to immerse in the local cultures of your destination.' 'You wish to hit the road in search of new adventures to explore where others don't,' Nicolas said or Sagittarians CAPRICORN: IMMERSIVE THEY LOVE: HISTORY, COMFORT, MUSEUMS, MOUNTAINS Those with a Capricorn star sign see holidays as a 'well earned break' from their strong work ethic. 'Comfort is essential to switch off,' Nicolas said. 'You are able to find luxury at practical prices, as you typically opt for boutique living while travelling. 'You will fall in love with Vancouvers treks into the mountainous backdrop to connect with nature, while still enjoying the finer things in life with a trip to five star spas, wine tasting tours and art galleries.' Those with a Capricorn star sign see holidays as a 'well earned break' from their strong work ethic and are well suited to Vancouver AQUARIUS: OFF-BEATEN TRACK THEY LOVE: NATURAL WONDERS, TECHNOLOGY, ADVENTURES, SMALL TOWNS 'You wish to stand out from the crowd with out of the box travel, where you try unusual food and quirky living,' Nicolas said. 'You love to discover the worlds natural wonders, whether thats opting for living with a tribe in Africa, trekking the Andes or seeing the world renowned Northern Lights. 'It's new experiences off the beaten track that you seek. With a genuine humanitarian concern you'd be more than happy to volunteer while hitting the road.' 'You wish to stand out from the crowd with out of the box travel, where you try unusual food and quirky living,' Nicolas said or Aquarians, adding that Africa is a great place to go PISCES: REFLECTIVE THEY LOVE: CRUISES, BOATS, COTTAGES, WATER, ROMANCE 'Your dreamy and spiritual nature is suited to soul-travel that expands your consciousness,' Nicolas said. 'Explore the monasteries of Tibet whilst your love of being around water where you can swim, drive or just laze. 'Preferring to leave the practicalities to others, you are suited to group travelling where others take the lead.' 'Your dreamy and spiritual nature is suited to soul-travel that expands your consciousness,' Nicolas said of Piceans Her Instagram posts have attracted the attention of millions of fans who are thrilled by her 'realistic' imitations of flawless celebrity snaps. And it seems social media sensation Celeste Barber, 35, is as down-to-earth in person as she is online. Speaking about her hilarious parody account on the Today show, the unlikely star shut down Karl Stefanovic's bizarrely deep analysis of her celebrity mockery. Speaking about her hilarious parody account on the Today show, Celeste Barber (pictured) shut down Karl Stefanovic's bizarrely deep analysis of her celebrity mockery Celeste has attracted millions of fans by imitating celebrity snaps with her unique twist 'Do you have a fear that, because the moment the parody starts happening, the actual genre or the medium starts to lose its influence or power, do you ever worry about that?,' Karl queried Celeste. A moment of stunned silence followed before Celeste replied with a simple: 'Nope.' Clearly catching on that his question did not result in the intended impact, a red-faced Karl laughed it off and said: 'I just made that up... I don't know.' 'I thought, hang on, someone's had their morning coffee over here. What?' Celeste added in response. 'If it makes people laugh, I've done it and I'm happy.' 'Do you have a fear that, because the moment the parody starts happening, the actual genre or the medium starts to lose its influence or power, do you ever worry about that?' Karl queried Celeste Celeste often imitates the 'candid' snaps and modelling shots of high-profile celebrities such as Beyonce (pictured) Her Instagram posts have attracted the attention of millions of fans who are thrilled by her 'realistic' imitations of flawless celebrity snaps An amused Deborah Knight - who replaced departed Lisa Wilkinson following her shock exit this week - then quickly changed the topic to Celeste's upcoming live shows. The Sydney mother-of-two also spoke about getting recognised in public by some of her 2.5 million Instagram fans. 'I get [people who say] "Oh you're that funny chick",' Celeste said. 'And I also get: "You look heaps better like this though than in your videos".' The Sydney mother-of-two also spoke about getting recognised in public by some of her 2.5 million Instagram fans 'I get [people who say] "Oh you're that funny chick",' Celeste (pictured right) said Celeste is internationally known for her tongue-in-cheek social media posts which parody the 'candid' shots and videos of good-looking celebrities. No famous model or actor is safe from Celeste's hilarious imitations - and her latest victims include Britney Spears, Bella Thorne, Justin Bieber and the Kardashian clan. She is also set to star in a new ABC show named The Let Down where she plays a ragged parent in a mother's group. This year, Celeste was voted as one of the funniest women on the internet, taking out a WhoHaha female comedy award. A new employee at a Melbourne hotel is bringing joy to its guests, but you won't find him carrying bags or recommending restaurants. But Mr Walker can always be counted on for putting a smile on the faces of anyone who walks into the the Park Hyatt Melbourne, especially after a 'ruff' trip. The adorable blonde Labrador is the hotel's first canine ambassador, giving travellers a home away from home thanks to his constant cheerful presence. Mr Walker is the newest - and most adorable - employee at the Park Hyatt Melbourne The precious blonde Labrador is the hotel's first canine ambassador, giving travelers a home away from home with his constant cheerful presence Mr Walker is there to greet guests when they first walk in the door, lounging in the hotel lobby in his custom-made Tasmanian oak bed. Guests can request to take Mr Walker out for walks in the morning, play with him in the park, or sometimes even practice yoga on the hotel deck. Brett Sweetman, the hotel's manager, told Daily Mail Australia that Mr Walker has made the Park Hyatt a more cheerful place for both employees and guests. 'Mr Walker's presence has not only brought a new level of comfort to guests staying at the hotel, but has also made a significant impact in boosting morale among the associates here at the hotel,' he said. Mr Walker is there to greet guests when they first walk in the door, lounging in the hotel's lobby in his custom-made Tasmanian oak bed Guests can request to take Mr Walker out for morning walks and play with him in the the park International guests are already calling ahead so they can request a walk with Mr Walker 'well before they arrive' 'Mr Walker has been adjusting very well to life at the hotel, and the feedback with guests have been tremendous.' 'It it so amazing to see everyone actively creating their own experiences with Mr Walker.' Sweetman revealed that international guests are already calling ahead so they can request a walk with Mr Walker 'well before they arrive'. But there's more to Mr Walker than just that adorable face. The 18-month-old pup was actually trained by Guide Dogs Victoria to provide assistance and companionship to people with blindness or low vision. Sometimes you can even find Mr Walker on the hotel deck, enjoying yoga with the guests The 18-month-old pup was actually trained by Guide Dogs Victoria to provide assistance and companionship to people with blindness or low vision Although he did well in the program, it was decided that the guide dog life did not bring out the best of Mr Walker's larger-than-life personality and he was brought to the Park Hyatt He was raised by a volunteer family for a year before returning to the organisation to begin his guide dog training. Although he did well in the program, it was decided that the guide dog life did not bring out the best of Mr Walker's larger-than-life personality. So Mr Walker was brought to the Park Hyatt to serve as an ambassador, where he not only brings smiles but also raises awareness - as well as funds - for guide dogs. 'We are very proud to be able to count Walker as part of our family, and to be able to work together with Guide Dogs Victoria to support such an important cause,' Sweetman said. 'I am confident that Mr Walker will make everyone feel at home here at Park Hyatt Melbourne.' Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece proved herself to be royalty in more than just name when she took to the red carpet at a charity gala in New York City, cementing her status as a style queen in a stunning form-fitting animal-print design. The 21-year-old, who is currently a photography student at the Parsons School of Design, made quite the sartorial statement at the 11th Annual Golden Heart Awards benefiting God's Love We Deliver, strutting her stuff on the carpet in a mid-length leopard-patterned dress by Michael Kors. Olympia finished off her glamorous ensemble with a pair of gold shoes and a matching metallic clutch bag, as well as several dainty necklaces and some small hoop earrings. Pout on parade: Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece showed off her best poses as she hit the red carpet at a Michael Kors-sponsored charity gala in New York City on Monday night Style queen: The 21-year-old royal looked every inch the style star in her form-fitting animal-print dress, which she accessorized with a simple gold clutch and dainty jewels Metallic: Sticking with the gold theme, Olympia opted for a pair of chic heels that matched her small box-style clutch bag Make-up-wise, Olympia modeled a dramatic cat-eye, leaving the rest of her beauty look incredibly simple, with a nude base and lip to draw attention to the dark eyeliner. She did, however, show off an incredibly plump pout as she posed up a storm on the red carpet ahead of the event, failing to raise a smile as she flashed her plump lips at the camera. Olympia's beauty look was completed with a sleek top knot, her long blonde locks pulled straight back off her face and into a stylish up-do. The young royal's attendance at the star-studded event comes after she enjoyed an incredibly busy summer soaking up the sun in several different exotic locations with her friends and family. Summer 2017 saw Olympic travel to Mykonos, the Bahamas, Paris, London, and Yorkshire, where she celebrated her younger brother's birthday. Sharp: Olympia chose to keep her beauty look relatively simple, opting to stick with a low-key nude base and emphasize her impressive cat-eye Plump it up: The young royal did show off a very impressive pout on the red carpet, however Busy bee: Her attendance at the event came just hours after she returned from a weekend trip to the Hamptons with her friend Sofia, with both women documenting the fun on Instagram New York life: Olympia is currently studying photography at the Parsons School of Design The warm months also marked the royal's 21st birthday, which she celebrated with several lavish parties, including an event in the Cotswolds, and a party in her home country of Greece. She then returned to New York just in time for Fashion Week, during which she made appearances at several high profile parties, including Town & Country's event, where she was honored as a 'modern swan' alongside Sistine Stallone, and Delilah and Amelia Hamlin. Olympia also attended the Harper's Bazaar Icons party alongside her close pal Peter Brant Jr. Much like Monday night's charity event, the Town & Country party was sponsored by designer Michael Kors, a long-time friend of the twenty-something royal. Since NYFW, Olympia has maintained a relatively low profile, no doubt wanting to spend some time focused on her studies. Rising star: Earlier this year, Olympia was named as a 'modern swan' by Town & Country, alongside Sistine Stallone, and Amelia and Delilah Hamlin Firm friends: An event was held in honor of the 'modern swans', and designer Michael Kors - a long-time friend of Olympia's - co-sponsored the event, as he did for Monday's charity gala Busy as can be: Princess Olympia also attended the Harper's Bazaar Icons party during New York Fashion Week While her jet-setting summer may have come to a close, however, she still found the time to pay a visit to the Hamptons over the weekend, returning to the city shortly before the charity gala - but not before she had had the chance to post a snap from her fun-filled weekend on Instagram. In the image, Olympia can be seen perched on a wooden beach walkway with her friend Sofia - who shared a similar image on her own account - with both young women modeling casual sweatpants and sneakers, a far cry from the glamorous ensemble Olympia opted for on Monday night. And the Greek royal was not the only attendee raising the style stakes; actress Kate Hudson also put on an incredibly chic display, arriving at the event in a tight sparkly red dress, which featured a funky cross-shoulder strap. She happily posed for the cameras upon her arrival, flashing a few more smiles than Olympia as she made her way into the party. Gwyneth Paltrow, meanwhile, put on a dazzling display in a burnout-style silver number with a unique asymmetrical hemline, making her appearance at the event just days after revealing that she was one of the women targeted by now-disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. Inseparable twin sisters doubled the romance, when they married the best friends they went to school with, by sharing their amazing wedding day. Mairead and Siobhan Ryan, 33, from County Tipperary, Ireland, married their teenage sweethearts, Robert Harris and Tommy Hogan, in a lavish joint ceremony in June this year in Clonmel, Ireland. Now Mrs Hogan, Siobhan said: 'We do everything together, so it made sense to have the most special day of our lives together. Looking back, it was so special.' Meeting at Cashel school when they were all 16, the twins quickly paired up with pals Tommy and Robert and started dating. Tommy and Siobhan (L) and Mairead and Robert (R) married in a lavish joint ceremony in June this year in Clonmel, Ireland Siobhan was shocked to discover that Tommy who she has two children, Tommy, seven, and Emily, four, with - was her senior by just a day and had been born in the same hospital room as the twins. The sales assistant explained: 'We all clicked when we met, but then my mum Christine, 56, recognised Tommy and told us that we'd all been born in St Joseph's County hospital, Clonmel at the same time. It was incredible! 'Tommy and I and Mairead and Robert have been very close throughout all these years. 'We all share the same friends, so we knew that when it eventually came to us getting married, we'd have almost identical guest lists.' But not everything they have done has been quite so synchronised. Carer Mairead and media executive Robert were engaged in 2008, after the birth of their son, Bobbie, now 12. But it wasn't until 2015 that Siobhan and her now husband followed their example, after plasterer and painter Tommy got down on one knee, during a trip to Paris. Speaking about the bond they share, Siobhan said: 'Tommy and I and Mairead and Robert have been very close throughout all these years' Speaking about their close bond, they said: 'We do everything together, so it made sense to have the most special day of our lives together. Looking back, it was so special' The sisters their men at Cashel school when they were all 16 and quickly paired up with pals Tommy and Robert and started dating (left: Tommy and Siobhan when they were sixteen and right: Mairead and Robert when they were sixteen) Back home in Ireland, rather than having a long engagement, like Mairead, her sister planned to walk down the aisle in 2017. Hearing about Siobhan's wedding plans clearly spurred her twin into action leading to them planning nuptials just months apart. When they discovered this, they decided to combine their efforts and their finances, to give them the wedding of their dreams. Mairead said: 'I think the planning spurred us on to finally do it, too. We wanted an autumn wedding in 2017 and they were planning a summer one. 'But we realised that a lot of the same people would be at both, so it seemed crazy to be paying for separate venues and everything. 'Someone just sort of naturally suggested we join forces. I'm not really sure who, but it became a mutual decision to have a double wedding. 'We've always done everything together. We live 15 minutes apart and spend most of our time together. We have our birthdays together and used to dress the same, even though we aren't quite identical. 'Always very close as twins, we share a lot of the same friends and obviously the same family, so it made perfect sense.' When the sisters realised they wanted to marry soon after their respective engagements, they decided to combine their efforts and their finances, to give them the wedding of their dreams Siobhan walking down the aisle with her father during their lavish wedding Mairead walking down the aisle with her mother on their big day By combining finances, they were also able to have a much more elaborate ceremony and reception at Raheen House in Clonmel, Co Tipperary a beautiful historic hotel, dating back to the 17th century. In the build up to the big day, the twins even helped to choose each other's bridal gowns. Siobhan continued: 'We had separate days each to find them. On her day, when we went to the shop, I saw one that I thought would be perfect for Mairead. It was a strapless, beaded, white fitted gown. Then, on my day, she saw one for me - it was also white, and strapless with lace and beads but more of a princess style. They were similar, but different enough to make us feel individual and special.' And when the big day arrived, the sisters provided moral and practical support to each other throughout the preparations. Mairead (L) and Siobhan (R) with Siobhan's children Tommy and Emily. In the build up to the big day, the twins even helped to choose each other's bridal gowns Robert and Mairead with their son Bobby Siobhan was shocked to discover that Tommy who she has two children, Tommy, seven, and Emily, four, with - was her senior by just a day and had been born in the same hospital room as the twins 'She's five minutes older, so of course I had to let her go first,' Siobhan, left, joked about her twin After the wedding, the couples and their guests partied the night away with a DJ and a band Despite all hitting the dancefloor together, only the Harris newlyweds had a first dance The inseparable twin sisters do everything together so it made sense for them to marry their childhood sweethearts in a joint ceremony Mairead, now Mrs Harris, laughed: 'It was great to have each other there to deal with the nerves but, more importantly, we could help each other into our dresses.' Finally, as the grooms waited for them at the top of the aisle, the twins' other sisters Michelle, 37, Sinead, 35 and niece, Ciara, 15, joined the wedding procession as bridesmaids. But Mairead, who was given away by their mum, Christine and Siobhan, who was given away by their dad, Denis, 63, stole the show in their fabulous ivory gowns. 'She's five minutes older, so of course I had to let her go first,' Siobhan joked about her twin. Afterwards, the couples and their guests partied the night away with a DJ and a band, at the venue, although only the Harris newlyweds had a first dance. Mairead and Robert danced to 'Be My Baby' and Siobhan said it was lovely to watch them Mairead (L) and Siobhan sign the register on their wedding day Siobhan said that she and Tommy hate dancing but watched their relatives enjoy a first dance Siobhan explained: 'Tommy and I hate dancing, so we decided not to have one, but Mairead and Robert danced to 'Be My Baby' and it was lovely to watch them.' Mairead added: 'The whole day was perfect. We wouldn't have wanted it any other way. It was great doing it together and it made it something that everyone will always remember.' Following the big day, they decided to honeymoon separately to make sure there was someone to look after their children. Siobhan said: 'Mairead and Robert went to Lisbon in Portugal for a week afterwards, while we went on a mini-moon to Killarney, in Ireland, so we could look after each other's kids. 'Like our double wedding day, it worked out perfectly.' The royal family are known to enjoy a bit of time in front of the box with the Queen said to be a fan of Pointless while William and Kate are partial to Game of Thrones. And it seems that Prince George also has his favourites when it comes to TV nights, as his father Prince William revealed on Monday. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined Prince Harry and cast members from the new Paddington 2 movie at Paddington Station in London on Monday, where they met 130 children from around a dozen of the 30 organisations supported by their royal charities forum. While chatting to children at the event, Prince William revealed the Disney classic his four-year-old son has on repeat at Kensington Palace. Scroll down for video Prince William has revealed that his son Prince George's favourite film is a Disney classic Speaking to a young boy aboard the Belmond British Pullman train, Prince William revealed that his son favours a Disney classic in a video captured on the day. When asked what George's favourite film is the Duke said: 'He quite likes the Lion King he's watched that quite a few times.' The 35-year-old royal revealed that his eldest child is also a fan of the Cbeebies regular Octonauts. He later added: 'He has watched some Lego movies as well'. Speaking during his visit to Paddington Station yesterday the Duke of Cambrindge revealed that Prince George is a big fan of The Lion King Speaking to a young boy aboard the Belmond British Pullman train the prince said that his eldest child is also a fan of the Lego films However, the father-of-two revealed that he and the Duchess of Cambridge try to limit their William said: ' (We're) trying to keep him off the television is hard work - not too much TV.' However, Prince George is not the only royal to enjoy time in front of the telly with his great-grandmother known to enjoy several programmes. According to Alexander Armstrong the monarch enjoys his BBC quiz show Pointless, often sitting down to catch it ahead of the six o'clock news. In an interview with Radio Times to mark the 1000th episode, Armstrong said: A Palace insider told us that she watches it. Meanwhile German actor Tom Wlaschiha, who plays Jaqen H'ghar in Game of Thrones, said that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge has asked him for spoilers after meeting him during their visit to Germany in July. 'They said they really liked Game of Thrones and have watched every series' said Tom, 44. 'They wanted spoilers but I said I couldn't tell them. I'm surprised they have time to watch such a long running series.' A doctor has issued a warning to women using hair extensions, highlighting how wearing them can lead to hair loss and even baldness. Dr Nestor Demosthenous says traction alopecia - caused by pulling force being applied to the hair - is on the rise due to the growing popularity of extensions for women wanting thick, long tresses. Stars including Naomi Campbell, who has been very frank about her personal battle with traction alopecia, are proof that extensions can be damaging even with the best hair care. So how can you avoid unsightly bald patches - and what can you do if it's too late? Beware the hair extensions: Aesthetic doctor Dr Nestor Demosthenous reports seeing a huge uplift in enquiries about hair restoration procedures from women across the country, looking to discuss how they can resolve the effects of traction alopecia Supermodel Naomi Campbell has previously spoken about her struggle with alopecia Campbell has previously spoken about her hair loss, caused by years of wearing hair extensions and having her hair over-styled for catwalk shows and shoots. But it's not just supermodels who are desperate for luscious, healthy-looking hair - some 43 million worth of human hair is bought by British women each year, many of whom wear extensions on a daily basis. Dr Nestor, who runs the Edinburgh Hair Clinic, told MailOnline: 'Generally, wearers are unaware of the extent of the damage that hair extensions can cause. 'Force being applied to the hair, day in, day out, will cause a recession of the hair due to this chronic traction, and this can result in a sunken hairline, or bald patches throughout the scalp. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimise - and in some cases reverse - the effects of hair loss caused by extensions. However, in severe cases surgery may be your only solution 'When bald patches start to come in, naturally women will become panicked at the idea of hair loss, and will often try to cover up the loss with more extensions it is a vicious circle.' He adds: 'Traction alopecia is more serious than hair simply snapping off; instead, the constant tension in the affected area will either pull out the root of the hair completely, or it can cause the follicle to become inflamed. 'As time goes on, the damage to the follicles can cause them to atrophy and if left to continue, they will reach the stage where they no longer produce hair at all.' They might be an unlikely duo but rapper Stormzy and Prince Harry became firm friends as they cosied up at a charity event last night. The royal and the rapper posed alongside 'inspirational' nine-year-old Marni Ahmed, who suffers from a rare skin condition, at the annual WellChild Awards on Monday evening. Taking to his Instagram, the Too Big For Your Boots rapper shared the snap alongside the caption: 'Had the absolute pleasure of presenting the #WellChildAwards Inspriational 7-10 year old award to the amazing Marni Ahmed. 'This lil legend had me laughing all night and this award is a true testament to his character, absolute G. Very inspirational kid. And Prince Harry turned up to photobomb us.' Playful Prince Harry photobombed rapper Stormzy and an 'inspirational' nine-year-old Marni Ahmed at the WellChild Awards on Monday night. The rapper took to Instagram to share the snap with his followers The dapper duo donned their finery as they posed with the youngster at the charity event in London. Earlier in the evening, Prince Harry claimed to have never eaten a doner kebab when he was questioned about his eating habits by Marni Ahmed. Harry, who is a patron of the charity, was meeting the young winners of the Inspirational Child award at a pre-ceremony reception at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in central London. The event is to recognise the courage of children living with serious illness and the medical professionals who care for them. Marni, who will need intensive and painful treatment to treat his Harlequin's Ichthyosis for the rest of his life, revealed he had asked the Prince the 'very funny' question, 'have you had a Doner kebab?' The boy's mother, Gulzeab, who had travelled with her son from their home in Leeds, said the Prince replied: 'No, but my friends have.' Marni said he also asked Harry what he had for breakfast following a dare from WellChild ambassador, Gaby Roslin. 'He said, 'bacon and sausage sandwich',' Marni explained. Marni Ahmed questioned the Prince about his eating habits, prompting the revelation that Harry's has never enjoyed a doner kebab Erin and the Prince shared a joke with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia survivor Erin Cross at the welcome reception for award winners ahead of the ceremony The beaming royal looked in great spirits as he arrived to support one of his most important charities The Prince chats to Katie Ward who was born with a condition causing short stature and was later paralysed below the rib-cage following spinal surgery But not all the children were as confident with the Prince, who became Patron of WellChild in 2007. Erin Cross, seven, hid behind a chair when Harry approached, but she was soon laughing and joking after the Prince managed to coax her out. The little girl, who has been fighting leukaemia for nearly five years, gave Harry a framed drawing, and he told her: 'Love it.' Katie Ward, 10, was born with a condition causing short stature and was later paralysed below the rib-cage following spinal surgery. Harry meets Sasha Burrell, aged 13, the winner of the Inspirational Child Award aged 11-14, with her mother Claire Prince Harry takes part in a video call with winners from Northern Ireland whose flight to attend the awards was cancelled due to high winds Prince Harry delighted a young girl as he paused for a chat during a welcome ceremony for WellChild Award winners The royal was introduced to award winner Erin who presented the Prince with a picture Harry was hugely impressed by YouTuber Katies' abilities as a swimmer Erin Cross was initially feeling shy, but then presented Harry with a framed picture The keen swimmer, who has her own YouTube channel, said she was happy to meet Harry, adding: 'He said it was amazing I could swim 100 metres.' Finley Green, who is tube-fed and has a number of serious conditions, including a cyst on his brain, was playing with a balloon animal when he met the Prince. 'He said if it pops, I will get you a new one,' said the seven-year-old. His mother, Jennifer, described Harry as 'really lovely', adding: 'I think the fact he was getting on the floor and speaking to the children speaks volumes.' In a speech, Harry praised parents who do everything they can to make the most of each moment with their children who are battling serious illnesses The award-winning children with royal patron Prince Harry and ambassador Gaby Roslin Harry poses for a photograph after presenting awards to Finley Green, second left, aged seven, and Erin Cross, aged seven, with hosts Gaby Roslin and Ashley Banjo Harry praised the courage of the young people supported by WellChild, saying it inspires 'incredible' strength in those around them WellChild is the national charity for seriously ill children and their families and through its nationwide network of WellChild Nurses, home makeover projects and family support programmes, gives the youngsters the best chance to thrive at home, together with their families. Children's television presenters Dick and Dom, magician Dynamo and grime artist Stormzy were among the celebrities to present awards to the young winners. The youngest, Finley and Erin, were given their honours by Harry, who took to the stage to congratulate them, before delivering a short speech to guests. Prince Harry attends a reception at the annual WellChild Awards at The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London, which commends the courage of seriously ill children and their families Prince Harry, left, meets Finley Green, aged 7, the winner of the Inspirational Child Award aged 4-6, The Prince chats to Rhiannon, a carer for her brother and mother, who will be presented with the Most Caring Young Person award The beaming Prince joins winners on stage after presenting awards to the youngest recipients 'Many of the children and young people WellChild support have been dealt the hardest card imaginable in life, and yet their courage inspires the most incredible strength in those around them,' he said. 'I meet the parents, who are often powerless to change their children's fate, but will do everything they can to make the most of each moment. 'I see the nurses and clinical staff, who become a lifeline for these families that just want to be at home rather than in hospital. 'But what everybody has in common is the sense of grace, positivity and good humour that creates a community of support. 'Knowing that someone is on your side, understands what you are going through, and will carry you through it, is a lifeline that should not be underestimated.' Harry praises kids, parents and carers in WellChild Awards speech Good evening everyone. This is my tenth year as WellChild's patron and of course I'm honoured to be here at another awards ceremony celebrating the powerful work of this organisation; each year, I have the privilege of meeting the children you see before you and spending time with their families and carers. The winners may be different each year, but their stories are all equally moving and inspirational. Many of the children and young people WellChild support have been dealt the hardest card imaginable in life, and yet their courage inspires the most incredible strength in those around them. I meet the parents, who are often powerless to change their children's fate, but will do everything they can to make the most of each moment. I see the nurses and clinical staff, who become a lifeline for these families that just want to be at home rather than in hospital. But what everybody has in common is the sense of grace, positivity and good humour that creates a community of support. Knowing that someone is on your side, understands what you are going through, and will carry you through it, is a lifeline that should not be underestimated. These awards were created to shine a bright light on an amazingly brave group of children and young people, on their lives, and on the resolve they and their families have shown to overcome such challenges. Life for families caring for seriously ill children is exceptionally tough. And without WellChild it is even tougher. Over the years, the WellChild Awards has played a huge part in highlighting what these families need, and the support that is desperately needed to meet the ever-increasing demand. Earlier this year I went to a WellChild project in Leeds. I met Elizabeth a single, working mother of five young boys, all under the age of 10. Her youngest son Oliver is in need of constant care. I can only imagine how relentless life is for Elizabeth and yet she and her boys were a team! There for each other and there for Oliver. It was amazing to see. WellChild was also there for two days with a team of volunteers to make Elizabeth's home more suitable for Oliver, so that he could enjoy life, safe at home, playing with his brothers. The difference this made was astonishing and highlighted how important it is for children like Oliver to be at home with their families. Later that day I also met our new WellChild Nurse Helen, at Leeds General Infirmary, as well as the families Helen had been working with. They were all incredibly grateful for the chance to be supported by a WellChild Nurse on their journey from hospital to home an opportunity which I think every family around the country should have. People like Elizabeth and Helen are exactly what WellChild is all about. We must all take the time to better understand the unique challenges faced by parents across the country. We must engage with them and listen to what they need. There are so many people in this room who play such a large part in making life better for vulnerable and isolated children, young people and families. I want to thank you all for the amazing work you do. You have my utmost admiration. The spirit shown by the young people who have so deservedly won these WellChild Awards this evening humbles all of us. I hope that, like me, you have all been moved to keep supporting WellChild and help us reach more and more of the people that need it so badly. I would like to end by saying well done again to all of our winners it was a pleasure to meet you all; keep doing what you're doing as you set an example for others to follow. Thank you. Advertisement The Prince added: 'There are so many people in this room who play such a large part in making life better for vulnerable and isolated children, young people and families. 'I want to thank you all for the amazing work you do. You have my utmost admiration. 'The spirit shown by the young people who have so deservedly won these WellChild Awards this evening humbles all of us.' The annual awards celebrate the inspiring qualities of some of the country's seriously ill young people and the dedication of those who go the extra mile to keep children healthy and happy, including outstanding health, social care and education professionals. Harry is royal patron of the charity and has attended the awards every year for a decade. It's been a busy day for Harry who earlier undertook a joint engagement with his brother William and sister-in-law Kate. They trio met youngsters helped by their chosen charities and stars of the new Paddington II movie - including Downton Abbey actor Hugh Bonneville. The royal looked in great spirits as he caught up with another award winner, Marni Ahmed Harry chats to Marni Ahmed, aged nine, the winner of the Inspirational Child Award aged seven to 10 award, with his mother Gulzeab Harry chats to Marni who has Harlequin ichthyosis, a rare condition that causes his fragile skin to crack Prince Harry was clearly in great spirits as he attended the awards, his second royal engagement of the day The Prince gestures as he chats to charity representatives ahead of the ceremony The royal has been attending the awards for a decade and is patron of WellChild Prince Harry arrives at the annual WellChild awards at Royal Lancaster Hotel The royals spoke to some of the 130 children on board vintage train carriages before waving them off on a day trip to the countryside. It's also a momentous time in Harry's personal life as rumours of his impending engagement to actress Meghan Markle, 36, heat up. A source recently told Us Weekly that the pair are already engaged but will not make an announcement until the star wraps up Suits filming next month. She has reportedly told bosses that she will not be back for the forthcoming eighth season, paving the way for life as a royal wife. Earlier yesterday, the Prince was introduced to Paddington as he attended a charity event alongside cast and crew of an upcoming film about the famous bear Prince Harry greets children supported by charities in the The Charities Forum aboard Belmond British Pullman train She has kept busy with a series of engagements since returning from her annual summer break in Mallorca. And it was business as usual for Queen Letizia as she hosted an audience for medical representatives at Madrid's Zarzuela Palace on Tuesday. The Spanish queen consort, 45, channelled autumnal chic in a 69.99 Zara dress paired with suede pumps in a berry hue. Letizia was also debuting a new hair style, fashioning her noticeably shorter tresses into a smart flick. Scroll down for video Stylish entrance: Queen Letizia ensures all eyes are on her as she meets with representatives from organisations including ALIBER and AFAMMER at Zarzuela Palace in Madrid Never underdressed: The Spanish queen consort, 45, channelled autumnal chic in a green chiffon dress paired with a pair of berry suede shoes for Tuesday's engagement She was hosting representatives from the Latin American Alliance for Rare Diseases (ALIBER), a network of organisations working to tackle diseases in the region. The stylish royal also met with members of the Confederacion Nacional de Federaciones y Asocaciones de Familias y Mujeres del Medio Rural (AFAMMER). Last week, Letizia joined her husband King Felipe VI and daughters Leonor, 11 and Sofia, 10 to celebrate Spain's National Day amid ongoing political turmoil in the country. The annual military parade was held in what has been a turbulent year for Spain, marred by a string of terrorist attacks and an ongoing independence row as the autonomous north-eastern region Catalonia threatens to break away from the country. New style: The royal was also debuting a new hair style, after chopping some length of her tresses since summer - having today fashioned them into a subtle flick Important work: Letizia was hosting representatives from the Latin American Alliance for Rare Diseases (ALIBER), a network of organisations working to tackle diseases in the region Among Letizia's guests today was ALIBER president Juan Carrion, who spoke to the royal about their work across countries including Argentina, Brazil and Chile. The meeting was part of Letizia's ongoing work with the Spanish Federation of Rare Diseases (FEDER) working to promote awareness of diseases and highlighting the importance of funding and research. ALIBER was created in 2013 with the aim of helping to improve the situations of the 35 million people suffering from rare diseases in Latin America. The stylish royal poses for a photo with members of the Confederacion Nacional de Federaciones y Asocaciones de Familias y Mujeres del Medio Rural (AFAMMER) Accessorising in style: Letizia completed her look with a pair of suede heels in an autumnal berry shade - matching perfectly with the floral pattern on her dress Letizia married into the Spanish royal family in 2004, following a successful career as a journalist and newsreader, and has since made Zarzuela Palace her permanent home. She was previously married to Alonso Guerrero Perez, a writer, but the pair divorced after just a year and by 2003 Letizia had announced her engagement to Felipe, then the Prince of Asturias. King Juan Carlos abdicated in 2014 in favour of his 48-year-old son, now King Felipe VI. An expectant mother-of-two is still powerlifting - despite being over six months pregnant. Star Quinones, 32, from Orange County, California, is still able to lift weights of up to 134kg - explaining it keeps her strong both physically and mentally. She began powerlifting more than four years ago, and has been continuing to work out up to five times a week during her pregnancy. Star admits that she has had mixed reactions at the gym - and says she wouldn't recommend it for pregnant women who have never powerlifted before. Scroll down for video Star Quinones, 32, from Orange County, California, is still powerlifting, despite being over six months pregnant Powerlifting differs from weightlifting as it consists of three elements: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Star can still squat with 111kg and bench press 52kg during her regular workouts, even though she is 28 weeks pregnant. Speaking about the response she's had, she said: 'I've gotten the concerned old lady who reminds me that I shouldn't be lifting more than twenty five pounds (11 kg), to the men that stare, to the group of people that commend me for still coming in. The reactions I get vary.' 'The main benefit of powerlifting is strength. For me, it's transferred from physical to mental strength as well,' she added. The mother-of-two is still able to lift weights of up to 134kg - explaining it keeps her strong both physically and mentally 'Just like anything else, yes, there are dangers. I wouldn't recommend it to a pregnant woman who's never done it before. 'My opinion is that you should do what you've done before you were pregnant and also take your doctor's advice into consideration. 'It's definitely an ego thing to have to back down in weight but everyone loves a comeback right.' Star has two sons already and is expecting her first daughter later this year, she hopes all her children will take up lifting to keep in shape. Star has been continuing to work out up to five times a week during her pregnancy She admits that she has had mixed reactions at the gym - with some telling her that she shouldn't be lifting such heavy weights while pregnant However, she insists that powerlifting keeps her strong both physically and mentally She urges people who are new to the sport to ask for help when starting out. 'I'd say to ask the people who are seasoned to give you advice and assess you when you lift,' she said. 'The powerlifting community is one of the kindest, most helpful group of people. 'You wouldn't believe how many former powerlifters there are out there and their advice is gold.' Star says she wouldn't recommend the sport to a pregnant woman who hasn't done it before She can still squat with 111kg weights and bench press 52kg during her regular workouts While millions of women flooded to DC to defend women's rights, a hot topic in the spotlight under Donald Trump's presidency, some are rallying for the opposite cause. The Lovely Ladies For Men's Issues activist group, led by 22-year-old Vanessa Lussier, want bring awareness to men's issues - by stripping off for a sexy calendar. Vanessa said: 'It's kind of unheard of that women support men's issues. While historically men have had more authority in the society, no society is perfect. Scroll down for video Stripping for a cause? Members of The Lovely Ladies for Men's Issues (pictured left to right) Reading Wren, Vanessa Lussier and Becky Quinton pose for their calendar photoshoot 'It's kind of unheard of': Founder of the group, Vanessa Lussier, said that it's uncommon that women to support men's issues 'And now that women have basically all their rights, and you see how men are, for example, way more likely to be sentenced for a crime and much more harshly, you have to think men have issues too. So why can't we talk about that?' Vanessa along with fellow activists Reading Wren and Becky Quinton plan to get the conversation started while posing in skimpy outfits for the 'Lovely Ladies for Men's Issues 2018' calendar. But if you're worried about people only focusing on the women's scanty attire, the calendar will also feature facts about specific men's rights issues for the month. Lovely Ladies co-founder, Reading, 29, said: 'I think the sexy calendar format is a more playful way of getting people to notice some of the issues that are going on.' 'To me the most important issue really is paternal rights and what happens to men in family court.' And because these issues are so important, a portion of the profits from the project will be put towards funding a charity that, according to the girls, 'trains veterans in high-demand careers'. 'We want to empower men': The trio home to bring awareness to men's issues such as paternal rights Starting a conversation: Vanessa and other supporters will pose in skimpy outfits for the Lovely Ladies for Mens Issues calendar 2018 A crowdfunding campaign set up by the group also managed to raise $2,552 to fund the calendar, which equates to 449% of the original target. But it remains to be seen if other women will want to be involved with a group that aims to represent the women 'who are dedicated to addressing the inequalities faced by men that are largely ignored in society today.' Reading said: 'I'm married, I have kids, and I want my kids to grow up in the world that, if a relationship breaks down, they won't get screwed over just because their mother's rights come first.' The women are on a mission to raise awareness of issues such as male circumcision, which they say is akin to female genital mutilation, and paternal rights. Vanessa, who is fully aware that her efforts are likely to stoke the ire of the modern women's movement, said she is a 'non-feminist' rather than is an 'anti-feminist' because she 'doesn't want to silence anybody'. She explained: 'To me, feminism is a good idea that got taken advantage of by bad people.' Getting their attention: Reading said that she thinks the sexy calendar format is a more playful way of getting people to notice some of the issues that are going on Men matter: Vanessa Lussier said she is a 'non-feminist' rather than is an 'anti-feminist' Taken advantage of: Vanessa said the to her, feminism was a good idea that was abused by bad people 'I believe the biggest disruptors to men's rights are anybody who pushes myths and stereotypes of men, such as "toxic masculinity".' The activist and YouTuber has been championing men's rights since high school, where she said she witnessed friends become entrenched feminists, eventually becoming hostile towards men. This prompted her to investigate feminism more deeply, leading her to read about men's rights issues and beginning her affiliation with the movement that would leave people scratching their head. Vanessa continued: 'When I realized that feminists were actually pushing views that harmed men, it made me get involved to kind of even the playing field.' But if only she could even the wage gap. Her journey would then lead her to establishing the Lovely Ladies for Men's Rights group, along with Reading and a man known online as 'mad_cat'. 'Everyday you see positive reinforcement for women's sexuality,' she said. 'You can wear whatever you want and that's perfectly fine.' 'But with men it's kind of a different story, because they are not as free to express their sexuality as women might be. We are all about telling men it's okay to have sexual attraction.' Starting young: Vanessa said she has been championing men's rights since high school Hostile femnists: Vanessa said she witnessed friends become entrenched feminists, eventually becoming hostile towards men Worth it: Vanessa said that if they help just one man, it will be have been worthwhile Eye opening: The women hope to bring awareness by opening people's eyes with the calendar featuring pretty ladies It would seem that men have no problem acting on their attraction especially in light of such scandals such as Bill Cosby and Harvey Weinstein. Both Reading and Vanessa have set up various personal social media pages, including YouTube channels which include such videos as Vanessa's 'Social Justice Warrior encounters #1 - My First Feminazi'. Vanessa and Reading held a photoshoot for the upcoming calendar with friend and supporter Becky, 25, in North Carolina on September 2 and the three posed together in swimwear to spread their message of equality - a term that some women would still say they are fighting for. 'It definitely opens people's eyes, you know. They will see the calendar and they will see the pretty ladies and be like um, "Ooh. What? I am very interested in that. I want to see what's going on,"' Becky said. Vanessa added: 'I personally believe that if we just help one man out there then that's absolutely worth it.' 'And if we did somehow cause some sort of problems with the campaign, we would just continue to promote positive sexuality.' The Duchess of Cambridge is due to give birth to her third child in April, Kensington Palace has confirmed. In a statement released today via their Twitter page, the Palace revealed that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are 'delighted' to be expecting their third child in April 2018. Kensington Palace was forced to announce Kates third pregnancy on September 4 because as when she was expecting Prince George and Princess Charlotte Kate, who is now three months along, was suffering with severe morning sickness. In a short statement, the royals' office Kensington Palace said the baby, who will be fifth-in-line to the British throne, was due in April - but the exact date of the baby's expected arrival was not disclosed. In a statement released today, the Palace revealed that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, pictured at Paddington station yesterday, are 'delighted' to be expecting their third child in April next year Kate and William are already parents to Prince George, 4, and Princess Charlotte, 2. The family are pictured during the Royal Tour of Canada in September William and Kate, both 35, already have two children: Prince George, 4, and Princess Charlotte, 2. Kate will be heavily pregnant on an official visit to Norway and Sweden with her husband early next year. The Palace said the couple had been asked to undertake the Scandinavian visit on behalf of the Foreign Office and William will also make a solo trip to Finland next month. Kate made her second appearance since announcing the news yesterday and showcased a new shorter do and hint of a baby bump to coincide with her return to public duties. The Duchess of Cambridge is still not fully recovered from the acute morning sickness that has blighted her third pregnancy but found herself playing the role of Dancing Queen yesterday. Kate, 35, was twirled around Platform 1 at Paddington station in London after making a surprise appearance alongside the Duke of Cambridge, Prince Harry and cast members from the new Paddington 2 movie at an event involving children from the charities they support. Kensington Palace announced the news on their Twitter page this afternoon - noting that the happy couple are 'delighted' The Duchess of Cambridge, who is expecting her third child with Prince William, showcased her dance skills as she let Paddington Bear twirl her around during a charity visit to Paddington station in London on Monday The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, pictured with Prince George and Princess Charlotte waving to the crowd before departing by sea plane from Victoria Harbour Airport in Victoria, Canada in September, will soon be parents of three The Duchess proved she has rhythm as she boogied with the bear in front of amused onlookers. Despite wearing heels, Kate still managed to pull off the dance moves with aplomb She and an actor inside a Paddington costume danced to the sound of calypso band D-Lime, who play on the soundtrack of the first and second Paddington films. WHAT STAR SIGN WILL KATE'S THIRD BE? The two zodiac signs associated with the month of April are Aries and Taurus. People born from April 1st to April 19th are members of the Aries sign. The Aries can be identified by their innate determination and passion. For those born from April 20th to April 30th, they are born under the Taurus sign. Source: www.famousbirthdays.com Advertisement It was Kate's second public appearance since Kensington Palace officially announced on September 4 that she was pregnant with her third child and suffering from the severe morning sickness hyperemesis gravidarum. She has previously pulled out of engagements because of the HG, which can cause vomiting up to 60 times a day but decided to join her husband and brother-in-law as her condition has improved. 'She's feeling much better,' William said. An aide added: 'The Duchess is feeling much better but she has still not fully recovered.' The three royals joined actor Hugh Bonneville and other members of the cast of Paddington 2 at the station, where they met 130 children from around a dozen of the 30 organisations supported by their royal charities forum. Kate was the star of the show at Paddington station as she let the giant bear spin her around before a crowd of impressed onlookers The pregnant Duchess showed she was a good sport by enjoying a dance on the train station platform with Paddington The Duchess is getting back into the swing of things after taking a six week break while she battled hyperemesis gravidarum They spent 45 minutes chatting to children on board the Belmond British Pullman steam train, the sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, before waving them off on a journey into the English countryside. Kate, in an AW13 Orla Kiely dress, which was 348 at the time of purchase, was blooming, bending down to speak at length to children and their parents. Last week, she revealed a tiny baby bump as she made her first public appearance since announcing her pregnancy last month. We may have recently switched seasons but that doesn't mean you have to retire your summer dresses to the back of your closet just yet! Instead look to fashion forward celebs like Selena Gomez, 25, Nicole Richie, 36, and Taylor Hill, 21, who have all used resourceful layering techniques to make even the skimpiest frocks look seasonally appropriate. Here, FEMAIL breaks down five celeb-approved ways to rock summer dresses this fall. 1. WRAP DRESS + CHUNKY CARDIGAN 'It' girl: Selena Gomez, 25, made her Rouje wrap dress fall-appropriate by layering it under a chunky cream cardigan Selena Gomez is clearly a huge fan of the wrap dress, as she was spotted rocking the flattering silhouette several times over the summer. The 25-year-old wasn't ready to give up the waist-cinching garment just yet even thought the weather has gotten chillier. Instead, she simply layered her printed Rouje dress under a chunky cream colored cardigan for a stroll in Soho, New York. Follow her lead and opt for a cardigan in a classic color that will compliment all the flirty frocks already hanging in your closet. 2. SLIP DRESS + FITTED TURTLENECK Work it: Leave it to Nicole Richie, 36, to turn a slip dress into the perfect outfit for autumn Leave it to Nicole Richie to make a slinky slip dress appropriate for fall. The 36-year-old stepped out this week in a brown fringe dress by her brand House of Harlow worn over a fitted black turtleneck. Once it gets too cold out for a lightweight turtleneck, simply layer a heavier option over your slip dress, for a warmer take on this sleek pairing. 3. SILK DRESS + LONG SWEATER COAT Style star: Olivia Palermo, 31, found a way to keep wearing her pretty silk dresses all season long The Queen of transitional dressing, Olivia Palermo, found a way to keep wearing her pretty silk dresses throughout the fall. The 31-year-old fashionista simply layers a long sweater coat over her lightweight frocks. Here she layered a colorblocked topper over her floral dress by Max & Co. This stylish combo is perfect for those tricky transitional days when it's chilly in the morning but hot in the afternoon; simply remove the top layer as the day heats up. 4. PEASANT DRESS + BIKER JACKET Hot momma: Jessica Alba, 36, added warmth and an edgy touch to her summery peasant dress This fall add warmth and edge to your summery peasant dresses like Jessica Alba did recently. The 36-year-old toughened up her girly maxi dress by Rebecca Minkoff by wearing it under an embellished biker jacket by the same designer. Re-create her look and give your ultra-feminine frocks a cool upgrade by pairing them with tough masculine pieces. 5. MINI DRESS + TAILORED COAT Model behavior: Taylor Hill, 21, stayed warm in a skimpy black mini dress by wearing it under a tailored grey coat Victoria's Secret model Taylor Hill isn't afraid to keep her toned pins on display even as the temperatures continue to drop. The 21-year-old model may have recently stepped out in Milan in a skimpy black mini dress, but she kept warm by topping it with a tailored coat. If it's too cold outside to wear an itsy bitsy dress with bare legs, add a pair of textured tights into the mix for a sleek and modern look. Tiffany Trump rang in her 24th birthday on Friday, and three days later she proudly showed off her long legs in an throwback snapshot. The first daughter, who turned 24 on October 13, took to Instagram on Monday to share a photo of herself holding a bunch of pink and gold balloons, using the hashtags '#fridaythe13th' and '#birthday.' In the festive photo, Tiffany is wearing a $675 Haute Hippie white tuxedo dress that showcases her legs, and she accentuated her pins even more by posing with one leg in front of the other. Scroll down for video Tiffany Trump took to Instagram on Monday to share a throwback snapshot from her 24th birthday party Tiffany posed for a photo with friends Peter Brandt Jr., Julia Moshy, Andrew Warren, Rebecca Chernyavsky and Alex Assouline (from left to right) at the fete Artistic license: The picture appears to have been edited by Tiffany in order to add some more length to her legs The Georgetown Law student wore her long blonde hair pulled back in a sleek bun, and she topped off her short dress with a pair of black and silver pumps. Despite the October chill, Tiffany wore only a skin-tone camisole underneath her dress for her night out with her friends and family. The blurry background and slightly distorted angle suggests the image was edited before Tiffany shared it with her 907,000 Instagram followers. Although she is living in Washington, D.C. while studying law at Georgetown University, Tiffany returned home to New York City to celebrate her birthday with friends on the Upper West Side. The president's youngest daughter was pictured at Urbani Truffles in Manhattan where she enjoyed a decadent birthday meal with some of her relatives and friends. Marla Maples, Tiffany's mother, and her half-brother Donald Trump Jr. appeared to be the only members of Team Trump who attended the festivities. Tiffany Trump celebrated her 24th birthday at Urbani Truffles in Manhattan on Friday night with a small group of friends and family Tiffany was in a jovial mode throughout the party inside the small Italian restaurant. She wore her blonde hair scraped off her face and added some earrings to her look Having a blast: It was a rare outing for the birthday girl who has kept a low profile since she began law school in August Donald Trump Jr. attended with his five children. Pictured is Tristan, his daughter Kai (to his left) and Donald III Tiffany's mother Marla Maples and Donald Jr.'s wife Vanessa were also there for the occasion Tiffany was also joined by her longtime friends, including designer Andrew Warren and socialite Peter Brant Jr., the son of billionaire businessman Peter Brand and model Stephanie Seymour. Julia Moshy, Alexandre Aristote Assouline, and Rebecca Chernyavsky were also in attendance at the fete, and Andrew took to his Instagram page to share a photo of the group posed around Tiffany. 'Happy Birthday to my best @tiffanytrump! Love you so much [heart emoji] #last night celebrating 24, he captioned the image on Saturday. After seeing the photo, Marla, 53, took to the comments section, writing: 'Thx for making last night so special. Cake and balloons and love.' Donald Jr. brought with him his wife Vanessa and two of their five children. The president and first did not attend nor did Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner or Eric and Lara Trump. It was a rare night out for studious Tiffany who began classes at Georgetown Law in Washington in August. Kicking back: Tiffany sucked on a lime at one point during the dinner and enjoyed a number of different drinks The 24-year-old, clearly enjoying the night, added a gold and diamond choker to her otherwise scanty outfit Tiffany was relaxed and animated as she chatted with guests, pulling funny faces as they reveled in the food and drink on offer Never too old: Mom Marla and Tiffany's friend Andrew Warren presented the 24-year-old with a birthday cake. She is pictured lighting its candles beforehand In close company: Tiffany's long-term boyfriend Ross Mechanic was not seen at the event but she did enjoy the company of other best friend Harry Brandt As they left the Italian eatery, she and close friend Harry were seen chatting inside What now? Visibly taken aback by the story of one party guest, the birthday girl is pictured as she leaves the party Marla was dressed in a black top, beige trousers and some knee-high boots for the party Marla and Donald Jr were the only members of the family to share tributes to Tiffany on social media. She is seen right, inside the party with nephew Tristan There was no sign of her boyfriend Ross Mechanic as she exited the restaurant to get into a car with her mother and some friends after their meal. The couple has been spending less time together since Tiffany took up classes in Washington D.C. Ross, who lives in New York City, set his Instagram account to private last month - another indicator that things were no longer running as smoothly as once before. Photographs taken during the party show her surrounded by wine and champagne glasses. At one point, she appeared to suck on a lime. Only Donald Trump Jr. made reference to his sister's birthday online. He uploaded a selfie with his daughter Kai from the party on Instagram. He later shared a sweet photograph of Tiffany posing with his son Tristan. Marla celebrated with her own Instagram story which she captioned: '24 has arrived.' High spirits: Tiffany goofed around as she waited to get into her Secret Service escort after leaving the party The birthday girl and her mother were seen discussing their next move as party guests watched on Both Tiffany and her male companion wore sparkle-encrusted shoes for the occasion Four Secret Service-driven cars were on hand to take the party guests on to their next stop Ivanka was quiet on social media while new mother Lara took to Instagram to share a photograph of herself horse-riding. Their absence did not seem to dampen Tiffany's spirits on the big night. She was pictured roaring with laughter as she shared jokes with party guests, tossing her head back in amusement. Friends included aspiring designer Andrew Warren, Harry Brandt and Tiffany's long-term pal Rebecca Chernyavsky. All reveled in sharing photographs and video of the party on social media. The party ended first with the departure of Donald Trump Jr. and his brood who left in a people carrier that was escorted by Secret Service. Tiffany, her mother and their male companions were next. They had their own Secret Service detail. It appeared as though the family had taken over the small restaurant for the evening. Afterwards, it was on to 1 Oak in the Meatpacking District to carry on the celebrations. A romantic man has popped the question to his teacher girlfriend by orchestrating an elaborate proposal in front of all her students. Aiden Silverman surprised his partner Jaye Ventura in the ultimate marriage proposal, involving her school - and a picture book about a dolphin finding love. Adelaide teacher Jaye Ventura was reading 'Teaching to Love' in her classroom - unaware the book was actually about her own love story. The book was filled with subtle changes Aiden made, including the dolphin's name 'Faye' and how they met near 'timber' instead of Tinder. As her partner walked into the classroom with a musical band, the stunned teacher was lost for words when he pulled out an engagement ring - and she said 'yes'. Scroll down for video Aiden Silverman surprised his teacher girlfriend Jaye Ventura when he proposed to her in front of her students at school The book was filled with subtle changes Aiden made, including the dolphin's name 'Faye' and how they met near 'timber' instead of Tinder Speaking to Sunrise on Wednesday, the newly engaged couple, who met on the dating app, opened up about the proposal unfolded. Aiden said he had to keep the proposal under wraps - despite Jaye knowing her other half was planning something up his sleeve. 'That was the hardest part... if I'm going out late at night, I'm just doing secret squirrel business, so she knew it was engagement related,' he said. 'But she didn't know what it was or when it was. So I kept on telling her it's going to be in November sometime. So she would be more relaxed, no idea. 'And getting the school involved like that and telling her friends and no one busting... It was an amazing team effort.' Speaking to Sunrise on Wednesday, the newly engaged couple, who met on the dating app, opened up about the proposal unfolded The book was filled with subtle changes Aiden made, including the dolphin's name 'Faye' and how they met near 'timber' instead of Tinder The proposal was captured on camera, during which Jaye thought was all part of book week Jaye admitted she was surprised by the proposal despite knowing her now-fiance was eventually going to ask her to marry him. 'I had no clue,' she said. 'We had designed a ring and I'd [asked] "just tell me if it's roughly a month?" and he said "November". So I did not expect it and I didn't expect it in this way. 'The kids are in Year Two so they're eight year olds. They were hilarious. They actually thought we got married that day.' The romantic moment was captured on camera, during which Jaye thought was all part of book week. A company called Sweet Saba is earning plenty of buzz for its flashy new cocktail rings, and the reasons are clear: They're bold. They're statement-making. And they taste like booze. The confectionery company has made some sugary rings in the past, but this time they've got a little extra kick. Israeli-born artist Maayan Zilberman, who owns the company, teamed up with liqueur brand Campari on the limited-edition treats, which look like raw gemstones and taste like a Negroni. Cheers! Sweet Saba is selling Campari-flavored boozy ring pops Cocktail taste, cocktail ring! The limited-edition bling is edible but not actually alcoholic, and they cost $62 each Sweet Saba says that the rings which cost $62 each taste just like Campari, though they're not alcoholic (as the alcohol boils off in the candy-making process). They are each hand-sculpted and sit atop an adjustable silver setting. Naturally, each one is unique. Since news of the cocktail-flavored cocktail rings hit the internet, they've been in high demand. 'Filing this one under: S*** I don't need but actually absolutely do need,' wrote one Instagrammer. What's more, Sweet Saba will donated ten per cent of all proceeds to the non-profit City Harvest, which distributes excess food from restaurants to the hungry. Gorgeous: Maayan Zilberman, the candy maker and designer behind Sweet Saba, is known in the fashion and art worlds for her sweets Incredible: The sugary candy is all almost too pretty to eat (and most items cost considerably less than the $62 rings) Sugar high: She has collaborated with several designers and beauty brands Spreading the sugar around: Before this Campari collaboration, she worked with Neuwirth, Kate Spade, Urban Outfitters, Delpozo, H&M, Adam Selman, and Jimmy Choo More candy: These evil eye candies are currently available to buy, too Though this appears to be the company's first alcoholic candy, Zilberman has collaborated with several other major brands in the past. A former lingerie designer, Zilberman is all about making her candy aesthetically pleasing. 'Before I ever worked in fashion, I graduated from art school, majoring in sculpture,' she told Estee Lauder. 'I started making little candy sculptures as a side projectI never thought [they] would end up being my focus, but it felt natural to go back to a hands-on process after so many years of conceptualizing.' Besides an Estee Lauder collab, she has also worked with jeweler Irene Neuwirth, Kate Spade, Urban Outfitters, Delpozo, H&M, Adam Selman, and Jimmy Choo. Pretty: Zilberman worked in the fashion world and was a lingerie designer before moving on to candy Something special: Her candy is all hand-made and unique Sculptural sweets: Her work has even been featured in Architectural Digest Brilliant: This candy looks like pizza, but it does not taste like it Who knew? Zilberman has said her candy making process is quite similar to fashion design 'Everything I create under Sweet Saba is created the way my fashion collections were born. I start with mood boards, sketches, and flavor swatches, and I think about campaigns that would correspond to each of the candies we create for clients,' she told W. She has also been featured in Architectural Digest. In addition to collaborations, she does some non-branded work, too. Other candies recently sold on her site have been shaped like lipstick, evil eyes, crystals, sunglasses, Rolex watches, and mixtapes. At seven years old, Chloe Wilde is determined to become a mermaid, and absolutely nothing will get in her way. Certainly not the fact that she was born with half a functioning heart with only the right side pumping has endured three major life-saving operations, and spent almost a third of her life in hospital. When the charity Make-A-Wish Foundation UK flew Chloe and her family to Spain and sent her to mermaid school, it was only the four-inch scar down her chest that revealed what a fighter this extraordinary little mermaid really is. Chloe Wilde, seven, (pictured with her mother Joanne) was born with half a functioning heart - with only the right side pumping - and has endured three major life-saving operations, and spent almost a third of her life in hospital. But nothing will get in the way of her ambition to become a mermaid For a few blissful hours, Chloe and her family were able to forget about the heart problems that mean she needs a wheelchair to travel long distances, fights overwhelming lethargy and needs medication and extra fluids every two hours through a gastrostomy tube in her stomach to keep her heart beating. Every year, Make-A-Wish Foundation UK grants hundreds of sick children like Chloe what the charity calls their One True Wish. Inspired by the story of a boy in the U.S. with leukaemia, the charity was formed in 1986 above a shop in Camberley, Surrey. In its first year, four wishes were granted the first to Anthony from Liverpool, who went to meet the characters at Walt Disney World, Florida. This year, it is hoping to grant 1,000 wishes. But it has had almost twice that many requests. Wish come true: For a few blissful hours, Chloe and her family were able to forget about the heart problems that mean she needs a wheelchair to travel long distances, fights overwhelming lethargy and needs medication and extra fluids every two hours Every year, Make-A-Wish Foundation UK grants hundreds of sick children like Chloe (pictured with her mum Joanne) what the charity calls their One True Wish However, with your help, these children can get time away from the daily difficulties of living with a serious condition and make memories they can treasure, whatever their futures hold. To make dreams come true and transform desperately ill childrens lives this Christmas, the Mail is asking readers to donate old 1 coins. Round 1 coins have now ceased to be legal tender and can be exchanged for new 12-sided coins at banks and Post Offices. But we are appealing to readers instead to give them to Make-A-Wish Foundation UK. The Mail has partnered with Nationwide Building Society, which will take old 1 coins for the charity until December 20. Just hand them to the cashier at any Nationwide branch, stating that you wish to give them to the Mails Quids For Kids Make-A-Wish Foundation UK appeal. You can also make extra donations there. If you dont have any old pound coins, you can donate online, by text, or by cheque (see box, far right, for details). Chloes Make-A-Wish trip had an extraordinary impact on the whole Wilde family her mother Joanne, father Dan and 13-year-old twin sisters Aimee and Holly. As Joanne, 39, says: Seeing the girls so happy was wonderful. We were laughing, joking and relaxing. I felt the stress slip away. For Chloe, it was a dream come true. She went to mermaid school and talked to a real-life mermaid. She had a mermaids tail on and swam, and chose the mermaid name of Ariel. She looked so happy, and I will treasure those memories forever. The Wildes were a normal family expecting their third baby when their world was turned upside down at Joannes 21-week scan in 2009. Joanne, who lives with her husband Dan, 38, a CCTV manager in Thackley, West Yorkshire, recalls: We went for our scan on October 21. That date is etched on my brain. The sonographer was staring at the image of my babys heart and told me to return the next day to see a doctor. I knew it was bad news. The baby had a rare congenital heart problem, which occurs in around one in 5,000 babies. It means the left lower pumping chamber (ventricle) of the heart does not develop normally, while the mitral valve between the left ventricle and the upper chamber is closed or very small. In addition, the aorta the main vessel that carries blood to the rest of the body is smaller than normal, so the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. Joanne, a college learning support assistant, says: The cardiologist gave us three choices. We could end my pregnancy, deliver the baby at term and allow it to slip away, or we could give our child the chance of life with three operations. The first would be in the first few days, the second around six months later and the third by the age of five. If she survived, our child would eventually need a heart transplant. Without the first operation, our baby would die within days. When they told me the baby was female, I envisioned a girl with blue eyes and strawberry blonde hair and, in that second, she became real. I knew I could never choose termination. Chloe arrived by Caesarean on March 1, 2010, weighing 6 lb 11 oz. Chloes Make-A-Wish trip had an extraordinary impact on the whole Wilde family her mother Joanne, father Dan and 13-year-old twin sisters Aimee and Holly. Pictured left to right: Aimee, Chloe, Dan, Joanne and Holly I heard her cry and the emotion hit me like a physical force, says Jo. I couldnt hold her she was taken straight to intensive care. The next day, she was taken to London for surgery. I insisted that Dan drive me to the register office because I didnt want her to die without a name. Chloe was discharged after three weeks, but her condition deteriorated five months later and she started turning blue. A helicopter was sent from London with a team of medics, recalls Joanne. We were flown to Hyde Park, where police escorted our ambulance to Evelina Childrens Hospital. When we arrived, I was told to kiss Chloe goodbye before 12 hours of surgery. I shall always remember that kiss not knowing if I would see her again. Chloe and Joanne remained in hospital for a month, while Dan returned home to attempt to keep life as normal as possible for the twins. By the time she was two, Chloe had become more ill and her parents drove her to London for her third and final operation. While the operations saved her life, Chloes health is delicate and she needs a wheelchair to travel long distances because she tires easily. Family life is interrupted by frequent visits to A&E. Her weak immune system means a common cold usually requires a hospital admission. Holly and Aimee adore their little sister, but we all fear her becoming ill, says Joanne. Surgeons cannot operate on her heart any more the next stage would be a heart transplant. It was a play worker who nominated Chloe for Make-A-Wish Foundation UK. To qualify, a child must be between three and 17 and have a life-threatening medical condition. They must be referred to the charity by a friend, family member or hospital consultant and be signed off as fit enough to take part. Two volunteer wish consultants then visit the child to discuss their One True Wish. Although the wishes are chosen by the children, its about doing things together as a family. When the charity sent the wish consultants to ask Chloe about her dearest wish, she announced gleefully: I want to be a mermaid!, proudly showing off her mermaid books, Little Mermaid videos and dressing-up costumes. The charity arranged for the family to fly to Reus in Spain in June 2016, staying in a hotel with a pirate ship in the swimming pool and visiting a local water park for the day. But, most importantly, Chloe was invited to mermaid school Sirenas Mediterranean Academy where mermaid lovers flock to learn about these mythical creatures. The girls were taught mermaid swimming and given their own mermaid tails. With her blonde hair flowing in the water, Chloe posed proudly for treasured family pictures. The charity thought of everything, says Joanne. The crew on the flight announced there was a brave little girl on board and they got all the passengers to hold two hands up in the shape of a heart. It was such an incredible sight to see all those strangers rooting for Chloe it made me cry. Eating sprouts and drinking green tea could make aggressive breast cancers treatable, new research suggests. Compounds in cruciferous vegetables, such as sprouts, and the traditional herbal drink 'turn off' genes for ER-negative forms of the disease, which is notoriously unresponsive to therapy, a study found. Study author Professor Trygve Tollefsbol from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, said: 'Your mother always told you to eat your vegetables, and science now tells us she was right. 'Unfortunately, there are few options for women who develop ER-negative breast cancer.' Study author Yuanyuan Li added: 'The results of this research provide a novel approach to preventing and treating ER-negative breast cancer, which currently takes hundreds of thousands of lives worldwide.' Eating sprouts and drinking green tea could make aggressive breast cancers treatable TEST PERSONALIZES BREAST CANCER CARE AND COULD SPARE LOW-RISK PATIENTS CHEMOTHERAPY A test pinpoints breast cancer patients with a low-risk of their tumor returning, allowing them to avoid aggressive treatments, research revealed in June. The test correctly identified 15 percent of the study's participants as being of a low-risk of their cancer coming back. Such patients had a strong prognosis after their initial treatment regardless of whether they were given additional therapy to prevent their tumor returning, the research adds. Lead author Dr Laura Esserman from the University of California in San Francisco. said: 'This is an important step forward for personalizing care for women with breast cancer. 'We can now test small node-negative breast cancers, and if they are in the ultra-low risk category, we can tell women that they are highly unlikely to die of their cancers and do not need aggressive treatment, including radiation after lumpectomy.' Advertisement How the research was carried out The researchers analyzed mice with ER-negative breast cancer. They gave the mice two compounds found in common foods that work together to prevent cancer and could transform tumors into a more treatable form of cancer. Cruciferous vegetables, such as sprouts, were selected as they contain a compound, known as sulforaphane, that 'turns off' genes that influence cancer's development. Polyphenols in green tea have previously been shown to prevent and treat ER-negative breast cancer in mice that are genetically programmed to suffer from such tumors. Vegetables and green tea make breast cancer treatable Results reveal feeding mice compounds found in cruciferous vegetables and green tea converts aggressive breast cancers into more treatable tumors. Professor Tollefsbol said: 'Unfortunately, there are few options for women who develop ER-negative breast cancer. 'Because of the poor prognosis this type of cancer carries, new advances in prevention and treatment for ER-negative breast cancer have particular significance. 'Your mother always told you to eat your vegetables and science now tells us she was right.' Dr Li added: 'The results of this research provide a novel approach to preventing and treating ER-negative breast cancer, which currently takes hundreds of thousands of lives worldwide.' The findings were published in the journal Scientific Reports. Labour is backing a public inquiry into controversial vaginal mesh implants that has left thousands of women depressed, unable to have sex and on the brink of suicide due to their excruciating pain. The party is also calling for the procedure to be immediately stopped in England while the inquiry is underway. Labour's backing comes as MPs prepare to discuss the impact of mesh implants in a debate taking place in Westminster Hall at 9.30am today. More than 800 women are suing the NHS and the implants' manufacturers after complaining of crippling pain in a scandal that has been compared to thalidomide. The NHS has even been accused of sweeping such complications under the carpet in an effort to dodge media attention. After previously denying their implants were causing women's discomfort, mesh manufacturer Johnson & Johnson paid out $57 million to a sufferer from Philadelphia last month after a jury found the company to be negligent and its product defective. Pressure is mounting for a UK ban of the 'gold-standard' treatment for urinary stress incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Labour is backing a public inquiry into controversial vaginal mesh implants (pictured) WHAT ARE VAGINAL MESH IMPLANTS? Vaginal mesh implants are devices used by surgeons to treat pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence in women. Usually made from synthetic polypropylene, a type of plastic, the implants are intended to repair damaged or weakened tissue in the vagina wall. Other fabrics include polyester, human tissue and absorbable synthetic materials. Some women report severe and constant abdominal and vaginal pain after the surgery. In some, the pain is so severe they are unable to have sex. Infections, bleeding and even organ erosion has also been reported. Advertisement 'A public health scandal' Sharon Hodgson MP, Labour's Shadow Public Health Minister, said: 'Mesh implants have left women in permanent pain, unable to walk, and unable to work. This is an ongoing public health scandal and the Government need to do much more to support those affected. 'Ministers have said NICE will publish updated guidance for these products but not until January 2018. Mesh implants should be taken off the market now until we know more about the threat they pose to women's safety. 'The Government have failed to answer big questions about the extent of this public health scandal, including how many women have been affected and why a product with such terrible risks was allowed into the market in the first place. 'Labour is calling for a full inquiry to uncover the extent of the harm done by mesh implants so we can be sure that this never happens again.' Today's debate was called by Emma Hardy, MP for Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle. 'I'VE BEEN ON THE BRINK OF SUICIDE. MY KIDS KEPT ME GOING' Janette Nelson, 43, was on the brink of suicide after suffering agonising pain from a vaginal mesh implant she had fitted A mother-of-three has revealed she was on the brink of suicide after suffering agonising pain from a vaginal mesh implant she had fitted. Janette Nelson, 43, from Newtownards, Northern Ireland, said the only think that kept her going was her children, but she still battles guilt every day as she depends on them to help her wash, dress and even catheterise after the procedure left her unable to control her bladder. The former hairdresser also blames her implant for the breakdown of her relationship as her boyfriend left her when the pain was too severe for her to have sex. Unable to work, her career has also been destroyed. 'My children lost their mummy' Ms Nelson had the most common type of mesh, known as TVT, fitted in March 2012 in an attempt to cure her urinary stress incontinence. She said: Immediately once my tape was fitted I woke up with excruciating pain in my groin; its indescribable. Just one week later, Ms Nelson wet herself while out with her children and now relies on her eldest daughter to help her catheterise every day. Due to the excruciating pain of the mesh, Ms Nelson has been forced to rely on her mother and sister to help her raise her children. She said: My children lost their mummy. Ive been on the brink of suicide. My kids kept me going. I was useless as a mum but Im still their mum. Its all been about me for the past few years. Ms Nelson, 43, pictured with her daughters Bryanne (bottom), 17, and Zofie, 12 'My boyfriend left me because of it' As well as affecting her as a parent, Ms Nelson also blames the implant for the loss of her love life and career. She said: I had a boyfriend when this started but the sex was excruciating, neither of us could cope with it. My boyfriend left me because of it. I used to work as a hairdresser; always on my feet, always very confident, but now I can hardly walk and I cant control my bladder so I can't work. Its really knocked my confidence.' Advertisement NHS DODGING MEDIA ATTENTION The NHS tried to dodge media attention over the vaginal mesh implants that left hundreds of women in agony, it was revealed in April. The procedure cut into women's vaginas and left many in discomfort so severe they have been left unable to work, walk or have sex. It emerged the NHS actively sought to avoid courting headlines over the matter after minutes from an NHS meeting in October were leaked. The minutes showed an agreement to 'take the press element out of' a campaign for women experiencing complications from the devices. Seen by the Press Association, the minutes outlined the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency's (MHRA) yellow card campaign, which targets under-reporting of mesh complications. Officials said they should 'look into taking the press element out of the mesh yellow card campaign' and 'investigate whether there can be a general yellow card campaign, of which mesh is one element, to avoid media attention on mesh'. Advertisement Government rejects a ban Last month the Government released its three-year investigation into the mesh scandal and rejected calls for a widespread ban on the implants, which can shrink, twist and curl at the edges, leading to nerve damage. Vaginal mesh has been considered a high-risk device for nearly a decade in the US, with bodies accepting up to 40 per cent of women may experience side effects. Some studies, published in an array of scientific journals, have shown that pain, erosion and perforation from the surgery can affect up to 75 per cent of women. The alarming evidence prompted officials in three US states to suspend the practice and saw them call for an urgent review into its safety. Previously suspended in Scotland Mesh implants continue to be used in Scotland despite calls from the health secretary for their suspension. The mesh, introduced 20 years ago, was promoted as a quick, cheap alternative to complex surgery for incontinence. It was dubbed the 'gold-standard' treatment. Due to it not requiring specialist training to implant, outraged women have since called for tougher regulations in order to conduct such surgery. More than 10,000 women a year have the procedure. Some 7,800 have suffered lacerations and nerve damage from the mesh breaking into tiny fragments. Too much exercise can kill you, scientists have revealed. White men who work out at least seven-and-a-half hours a week are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease than those who do a moderate amount, a new study shows. Researchers in Chicago assessed exercise patterns over the course of 25 years and made the surprising discovery that very active white men are 86 percent more likely to experience a buildup of plaque in the heart arteries by middle age. But this didn't apply to black men, they discovered. Scroll down for video Researchers in Chicago assessed workouts over 25 years and found that white men who exercised at least seven-and-a-half hours a week are 86 percent more likely to experience a buildup of plaque in the arteries (file image) It was suggested high levels of exercise over time caused stress on the arteries leading to higher coronary artery calcification - CAC. However scientists warned people should not stop exercising. The team from the University of Illinois at Chicago and Kaiser Permanente looked at the physical activity trajectories of 3,175 black and white participants in the longterm CARDIA study and assessed the presence of CAC. The presence and amount of CAC, is a significant warning sign to doctors that a patient may be at risk for developing heart disease and a signal to consider early preventive care. Dr Deepika Laddu, assistant professor of physical therapy in the UIC College of Applied Health Sciences, said: 'We expected to see that higher levels of physical activity over time would be associated with lower levels of CAC.' However they found that at the top level of exercise, there was no extra risk for black men, but an 86 percent increased risk for white men. Unique to the new study is the evaluation of long-term exercise patterns, from young adulthood into middle age. The study group had eight follow-up examinations over 25 years, from 1985 through 2011, starting at age 18 to 30 and finishing at 43 to 55. Researchers split participants into three distinct groups, based on physical activity patterns. Group one was defined as exercising below the national guidelines of less than 150 minutes a week, group two as meeting the national guidelines of 150 minutes a week and group three was exercising three times above the national guidelines over 450 minutes a week. Overall, those in group three were 27 percent more likely than those in group one to develop CAC by middle age. When these findings were divided by race and gender, they found that white men were at the highest risk as they were 86 per cent more likely to have CAC. There was no higher odds of CAC for black participants who exercised at this level, and while there was a similar trend for white women it was not statistically significant. Prof Laddu added: 'Because the study results show a significantly different level of risk between black and white participants based on long-term exercise trajectories, the data provides rationale for further investigation, especially by race, into the other biological mechanisms for CAC risk in people with very high levels of physical activity,' Study co-author Dr Jamal Rana, a cardiologist at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland said: 'High levels of exercise over time may cause stress on the arteries leading to higher CAC. 'However this plaque buildup may well be of the more stable kind, and thus less likely to rupture and causes heart attack, which was not evaluated in this study.' However he added: 'It does not suggest that anyone should stop exercising.' The findings are published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Wyatt Shaw became a medical mystery when he fell into a deep sleep for eleven days after acting as the ring bearer in his uncle's wedding. The seven-year-old was behaving normally until he went to sleep the night after the wedding. His mother, Amy Shaw, struggled to wake up her son the next day, but he only regained consciousness briefly before falling back asleep. After visiting a doctor in his hometown of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, Wyatt was sent to Norton Children's Hospital in Louisville for further testing. Two weeks later on October 12, Wyatt woke up with a limited mobility and doctors still have no idea what happened in his body to cause the deep sleep. Wyatt Shaw (right), seven, fell into a deep sleep for 11 days after his uncle's wedding. Doctors performed multiple tests on him but were unable to explain why he was asleep. When he finally woke up, he had limited mobility and ability to speak When Wyatt Shaw arrived at Norton Children's Hospital on October 1, doctors weren't sure what was causing him to stay sleep. His mother first thought his tiredness was due to exhaustion from the wedding. She became worried after he couldn't stay awake and was extremely lethargic when he was conscious. Rhonda Thompson, Wyatt's grandmother, told The News Enterprise that they performed three spinal taps, three MRIs, one MRA, five EEGs and a toxin panel on the child at the doctors attempted to uncover why he was a sleep. They tested him for parasites, viruses, bacteria and infectious diseases that all could cause symptoms of fatigue. But all the results turned up negative. One of the main viruses he was tested for was encephalitis because it causes an inflammation in the brain. This extremely rare but serious viral infection can give someone flu-like symptoms and cause fatigue. Wyatt's results showed he was free of the virus after the doctors performed multiple tests. The doctors at the hospital have been working with Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and an expert in London to better understand what might have caused Wyatt to sleep for so long. 'The doctor in London said he has seen a child sleep for as long as 10 days without waking up and Wyatt slept for 11,' Thompson said. 'I said he was such a competitor that he wanted to break that 10-day record so he did.' Doctors gave him medication that is used to prevent seizures and he woke up. Seizure medication, depending on the type, targets neurotransmitters in the brain to stop them from firing off signals to other receptors. Wyatt has slowly regained his ability to walk and speak again with the help of the doctors and his mother (pictured right). Doctors said it will be a long road to recovery It is unclear if Wyatt was experiencing seizure-like symptoms because all the scans revealed normal brain waves, but the medication helped him wake up. Kleine-Levin Syndrome (KLS) is one disorder that causes someone to sleep for 12 to 24 hours a day where they only wake to eat or go to the bathroom. It is unclear what causes this disorder, but health experts say it could be caused by a disruption in the hypothalamus and thalamus when regulating sleep patterns. The hypothalamus is a structure deep inside the brain that acts as the control center for sleep and arousal. When someone is beginning to wake up, it is caused by the brain stem communicating with the hypothalamus to help the body transition into alertness. These functions can be disrupted and cause a comatose state for the person. Wyatt wasn't diagnosed with KLS, but he showed similar symptoms to patients who have had the syndrome. When he woke up, he had difficulty swallowing, an inability to walk and speak because he was asleep for so long. Doctors are unsure if Wyatt will experience this again, but he has gotten better since he woke up with improvement towards his speech and mobility. A 27-year-old father from California died on Sunday after enduring a fatal asthma attack caused by the wildfires which left him brain dead. Joshua Hoefer lost his ability to breathe when the attack came on Wednesday night while he and his girlfriend of seven years, Cierra Lopez, were packing up their belongings so they could leave their Santa Rosa home. They were planning to leave the next day, and Cierra told DailyMail.com that she now wonders if things might have turned out differently for her family had they left sooner. Joshua's story illustrates the speed with which the wildfires, which have now claimed at least 40 lives in California, can devastate entire communities. Joshua Hoefer (right) died of an asthma attack caused by the California wildfires. The attack left him brain dead last week, and he was taken off life support Sunday. Here Joshua is pictured with his girlfriend of seven years Cierra (left) and their son Nathan (center), five Cierra said that her boyfriend had struggled with asthma his entire life but that it had gotten worse within the last few weeks. Joshua's inhaler no longer worked to subdue his condition, and he had instead been using a nebulizer machine. Cierra said that even though she could smell the smoke from the wildfires in their home, they thought they had more time to flee at the time of her boyfriend's attack. Joshua's five-year-old son Nathan was in the room when his father lost consciousness. Immediately after the attack began, Joshua started using his nebulizer machine. But it did not work. He then told his girlfriend to call 911. She did, but as she was talking to first responders she witnessed her partner of seven years begin to lose consciousness. Joshua (left) was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital after rescuers responded to his girlfriend's 911 call. He is pictured here with Nathan (right) 'I was on the phone with the paramedics. I told them: "He's purple. He's gone!"' Cierra said. Still, she performed CPR to try to save him, and the first responders walked her through it. 'I laid him down. I was trying to tell our son to leave the room. I was telling our son to go get someone,' Cierra recalled, her voice shaking. It took around eight or nine minutes for the 911 responders to arrive. 'By the time the ambulance got there, I immediately looked at my phone,' Cierra said. Cierra described her boyfriend as an 'awesome father' and said that her son has struggled to understand his father's passing Cierra (left) and Joshua (right) were planning to leave their Santa Rosa home the day after Joshua experienced a fatal asthma attack She knew, looking at how much time had passed since she first called 911, that her boyfriend's chances were not good. But paramedics revived him at the scene. 'When I saw the monitor show the heart rate, I started bawling,' she said, explaining that she felt hope. Joshua was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, and Cierra went with him. A hospital staff member warned her that her boyfriend's condition was bad. She remembers them saying: 'He's on tubes right now. He has no brain function.' Joshua's condition continued to worsen for two days, at which point doctors performed an MRI. After confirming that he had no neurological function, they held a meeting with Joshua's loved ones explaining the severity of the situation to them. Cierra said that the hardest part was hearing a doctor speaking with them say: 'Everything that made Josh who he was would be gone.' Joshua's loved ones decided then to remove him from life support, and he died shortly thereafter on Sunday around 1.30pm. Cierra said that talking to her son about his father's death has been gut-wrenching. 'At first he didn't understand,' Cierra explained. 'I let him go see his father [before he was cremated]. I thought it'd be a good idea to let him say goodbye.' She added that she wants her son to treasure his father's ashes, saying: '[Nathan] was his pride and joy. He loved that little boy.' With the demand of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders soaring during the festive season, the refilling of canisters is turning out to be a potentially lethal multi-million business for unscrupulous people in Gurugram. The organised form of crime starts from gas distribution agencies when vendors come out with cylinders for sale - but the unregulated practice can put life in danger. It happens throughout the year but peaks during Diwali. Mail Today reached one of the points in the posh Palam Vihar locality in Gurugram where a tempo laden with LPG cylinders was found stationed in front of a refilling point. Both residential and commercial cylinders were found and a few were also found inside the shop. Demand of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders is soaring in the run up to the festivities 'The tempo of a local gas distributor stops here every morning and operators take out at least two kg gas from every cylinder. They transfer the gas from the filled cylinder to an empty cylinder with the help of a connector,' said Ritu Raj, a social activist in the area. Such ill practice is quite common in every locality right under the nose of the food and civil supplies department which is aware of refilling points. However, concrete legal action in this matter is yet to be taken. The LPG mafia have no safety equipment to transfer the gas from one cylinder to another. They just use a connector for the purpose. They generally sell cylinders to hotels and restaurants which are supposed to be their fixed clients. Old gas canisters are being refilled without the right equipment and sold on with a monthly turnover of trade said to be worth more than Rs 15 crore The consequences can be dangerous and life-threatening. On October 11, two children died after a fire broke out near their house in Northeast Delhi's Karwal Nagar. The fire broke out after a gas cylinder exploded in the neighbouring house belonging to one Santosh Kumar, who was allegedly filling cylinders at his home with some LPG cylinders that he was supposed to stock for the gas agency he worked at. Earlier this month two children died in a fire thought to have been started by a gas cylinder which had been refilled (picture for representation only) Santosh used to transfer LPG from bigger cylinders into smaller cylinders and sell them in the locality, it was claimed. According to a report, the total monthly turnover of the trade is more than Rs 15 crore and it is taking place in collusion with owners of gas distribution agencies. Bhagwan Singh, inspector, food and civil supplies department, said they are identifying unscrupulous operators and taking action. The hubs of such illegal business are Arjun Nagar, Bhim Nagar, Baldev Nagar, Amar Colony, Pataudi Chowk, Sikanderpur and Nathupur. Sources said many operators have illegal godowns (warehouses) in residential houses for the purpose. One big reason for the spike in the trade is the large number of migrant labourers living in Gurugram's industrial areas, who generally use small cylinders, it's claimed. Fireworks have been banned in Delhi this year to limit pollution Diwali this year has started on an unusually quiet note. Perhaps, it will also be less smoky, if not smokeless, in the days to come. A part of me, to be perfectly honest, is glad. As I grow older, I like the noise, smoulder, and smell of phosphorous less and less. But living in a democracy means that we cannot impose our own likes and dislikes on others. That is why I am against either an overzealous executive or in its absence, an interventionist judiciary. Firecracker ban The Diwali firecracker ban is actually a complex matter, with legal, scientific, social, religious, and political dimensions, all of which need to be examined before we have an adequate understanding. Considering the legal angle first, the Supreme Court's judgment was handed down in response to a writ petition filed in September 2015 on behalf of three toddlers, Arjun Gopal, Aarav Bhandari, and Zoya Rao Bhasin, by Gopal Shankaranarayanan, the lawyer-father of the first. In the first place, the original petition prayed for a comprehensive reduction of pollution in India through a variety of environment-improving measures. These included halting of seasonal crop burning, dumping of dust, malba and other pollutants, and the immediate enforcement of Bharat-V or better emission norms. School children going back to home after schools were closed due to last yea'rs smog However, not surprisingly, banning Diwali fireworks comes much easier, which is what the petition has boiled down to. In fact, the Punjab government has refused to fine stubbleburners, so not much progress to be expected on that front. Also to be noted are the many twists and turns in the case, including the Supreme Court's judgment on September 12, 2017, admitting in para 69 that there is no conclusive scientific evidence to attribute the spike in pollution at this time of the year only to firecrackers. The October 9 ruling actually reverses this earlier order. But more significant from the legal angle is how a new breed of rock-star lawyers can through PILs force the whole country to bend to their will. This is incredibly empowering to individual initiative on the one hand, but also quite dangerous to public good. 'The Diwali firecracker ban is actually a complex matter, with legal, scientific, social, religious, and political dimensions', says Makarand R Paranjape As noted legal expert and senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan observed in a recent column, 'Usually, a private interest litigation cannot be filed as a publicity interest litigant. It is not what one father wants but what all fathers should want subject to balancing of countervailing interests.' If the final outcome reflects how the judiciary proceeds in India, its base is still science, not law. But the science is confusing if not complicated to say the least. What most data shows is that to fix responsibility solely on firecrackers for Delhi's deteriorating air quality is untenable. At the same time, it would be contra-factual to argue that dangerous, unregulated, toxic and smoky firecrackers are harmless. What is the way out? It is to improve manufacturing and safety standards. We definitely need greener fireworks and safer, more regulated firecracker industry in India. Social angle This brings us to the social angle. Much of our anti-festival discourse springs from an upper-class Hindu, Western educated elite, which has internalised the modern and Abrahamic horror for 'pagan' and primitive celebrations. Hindus, arguably the longest surviving non-Abrahamics of the world, with monthly quasi-religious festivities are easy targets. Every Hindu festival, consequently, is under attack for being either superstitious or polluting. Reactive Hindus, understandably, go ballistic - we're being curbed in our own country, they rage. True, but folks, remember that Hindus are also most capable of reform; shouldn't we work harder to celebrate our festivals in more contemporary, not to speak of safer, ways? That includes being more sensitive to our environment too. No wonder the learned judges were hurt by allegations of anti-Hindu prejudice: 'We are pained to hear when people give a communal angle,' Justice AK Sikri, head of the Bench said, 'Everybody knows I am a very spiritual person but this is something different.' Politics of judgment Which brings us to the final aspect, the politics of the judgment. Somehow, everything in India boils down to politics in the end. That's what we seem really to relish, thrive, and get off on. Everything else subserves this most tribal of our instincts. And what is one indisputable, if regrettable, characteristic of our politics? It is to exercise negative power, that is power to bully, browbeat, and enforce our will on others. Having been badly oppressed over the ages, the exercise of power for most of us is actually its imposition on others. No one, whether it is the legislature, executive, or the judiciary, let alone the more humbler and lower echelons of our polity, seems exempt from this urge to dominate others. Self-righteous interference and exacting authority on the helpless, if not hapless populace, marks our ideas of the public good. Those in power seek the props of science, morality, or political correctness to legitimate their domination. But the bottom like is that like our colonial masters before us we don't consider our ordinary Indian fellow-citizens good enough to know and decide what is good for themselves. Instead, we will not only tell them, but whenever possible, enforce our will on them. India will transform only when we give up such arrogance. Let's educate ourselves to better celebrate Diwali and other festivals, but let's not curb the spirit of celebration through overzealous and interventionist judicial overreach. Run your winners is an old investment cliche. And thats not how the managers of the Mid Wynd International Investment Trust see it too. The team at Artemis that manages the trust judge an investment using criteria based largely on cashflow and valuation. It is also why recently the trust has been selling down its holding in online giant Amazon to invest in what, from the UK, might seem to be obscure Japanese manufacturers of factory automation equipment. Simon Edelsten, the trusts lead manager, points out that one of these companies, Daifuku, is worth 6billion, but admits that even some Japanese fund managers havent heard of it. Automation: The trust invests in robots, whose cost is falling rapidly - to the point that in places like China it is cheaper to buy a robot than employ a specialist welder This is part of the joy of what he does, he says, namely finding a good growth theme and looking for companies that fit it. That takes you into parts of the market that are not mainstream. It also means that the portfolio will be completely different from the benchmark index most of the time. Neatly, that brings us back to the automation theme. Edelsten has been keeping an eye on automation/robot progress for a number of years, but two things have changed recently to persuade him to invest. First, the cost of robots is falling rapidly, to the point in places, notably China, where it is cheaper to buy a robot than employ a specialist welder. This shift to building machine-only factories rather than using workers in emerging markets is significant. Mid Wynd at a Glance Ticker: MWY Value: 166million Share price: 470p Year high: 471p Low: 397p Robots are also becoming much more versatile and can handle not just heavy lifting type jobs but light touch and sensitive work, too. An automated solution means a better quality of product than a semi-automated plant believes Edelsten, even though we might not want to admit it. Japanese companies almost exclusively make the parts that give factory robots the ability for light touch work but they sell on cashflow multiples that are a fraction of US companies such as Amazon. There is a currency element and the Japanese dominance of the market means he has to keep an eye of how big a portion the automators are within the fund, but those issues aside this is a theme that can run for many years. Mid Wynd is named after a street in Dundee and is a trust based on themes. Typically there are eight to 10 ideas automation, online services, healthcare costs, emerging market consumer, bank regulation and others are among the current crop. Edelsten looks for the best value based on its methodology within these. Amazon was part of its online services theme and has been a superb performer for the trust since it was acquired when Artemis took over the management from Baillie Gifford in 2014. Up by around 150 per cent, suggests Edelsten, though thats not the point he, adds. For an online business, it is becoming capital intensive, especially following the recent acquisition of Whole Foods. The trust has been selling down its stake in Amazon because it is becoming capital intensive for an online business, especially after its acquisition of Whole Foods He points to online travel operator Priceline.com as a comparison. It sells on a cashflow multiple two-thirds that of Amazon, yet has nowhere near the capital needs. Mid Wynd is part of the Global Trust sector, arguably the Premier League of the investment trust world and inhabited by giants such as Scottish Mortgage, Alliance Trust and Foreign & Colonial. At 472p, Mid Wynd is currently worth 166million, modest compared to the multi-billion pound values attached to those rivals, but its performance has more than matched its peers. Since 2014, net asset value (NAV) each year to September has risen by 17 per cent, 27 per cent and 16 per cent while the share price has risen by 70p or 17 per cent in the past twelve months. Indeed, demand is such that Mid Wynd has issued more shares to stop the premium to asset value (1.28 per cent) becoming too large. A placing in May raised just shy of 6million and is part of a process to reduce any bumps in the event the market does have a wobble. A large premium might be affected even if net asset value isnt, he says. Mid Wynd has no debt and Edelsten sees no need for any nor, indeed, for it to be as aggressive as some of its peers, where some have been buying non-listed companies to boost performance. Thats not for Mid Wynd, says Edelsten. We want to be on the right side of the curve in the event of market turbulence. We are only a little fund and there are plenty of stocks. Bombardier's Northern Ireland workers hope that a fresh deal with Airbus could safeguard 1,000 jobs in Belfast. France headquartered Airbus has acquired a majority stake in Bombardier's C Series aircraft programme, just two weeks after after the US government proposed a 300 per cent duty on exports of the planes to the country amid an international trade dispute. The deal means CSeries jets can be built at Airbus' Alabama assembly plant, circumventing US import duties. Meanwhile the manufacture of wings for the C-Series would remain in Belfast where 1,000 people are employed on the programme. Today's deal means Bombardier CSeries jets can be built at Airbus' Alabama assembly plant DUP leader Arlene Foster said it was 'significant news' for Bombardier, which employs more than 4,000 people at its Belfast factories and is due to begin delivering a blockbuster order for up to 125 new C Series jets to Atlanta-based Delta Airlines next year. Airbus chief executive Tom Enders said planes built in the US would not be subject to duties under the US investigation. But US aerospace giant Boeing said in a statement: 'This looks like a questionable deal between two heavily state-subsidised competitors to skirt the recent findings of the US government. 'Our position remains that everyone should play by the same rules for free and fair trade to work.' Airbus obtained a 50.01 per cent stake in the C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership and hopes the deal will improve sales. Enders added: 'Not only will this partnership secure the C Series and its industrial operations in Canada, the UK and China, but we also bring new jobs to the US.' Bombardier president Alain Bellemare said: 'This partnership should more than double the value of the C Series programme and ensures our remarkable game-changing aircraft realises its full potential.' Last month, the US Department of Commerce announced it would impose an interim tariff of nearly 220 per cent on the jets - with unions warning the move could cost jobs in Belfast. A second preliminary levy of 80 per cent has been loaded on sales of Bombardier aircraft. Hope: DUP leader Arlene Foster said today's deal was 'significant news' for Bombardier Announcing the regulator's preliminary finding, US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said the subsidisation of goods by foreign governments was something that President Donald Trump's administration 'takes very seriously'. Bombardier labelled the determination 'absurd', while in its response the UK Government said the statement was 'disappointing' and pledged to defend British interests 'at the very highest levels'. Speaking about the Airbus-Bombardier deal, Clark said: 'Since Boeing initiated action against Bombardier, we have been active alongside our Canadian counterparts to work to secure the future of the C Series and safeguard jobs and manufacturing at Bombardier Shorts in Belfast, and the supply chain across the UK. 'We will continue to work closely with the companies to protect UK interests and with the Canadian government to ensure the unjustified case brought by Boeing is brought to a swift resolution. 'There is some way to go before the deal is completed and our number one priority throughout will be the workforce in Northern Ireland.' Davy Thompson, regional officer of the Unite union, welcomed the news. He said: 'Unite will continue our efforts to ensure the withdrawal of the US tariffs on the C Series but this is a welcome development - one that gives breathing space to the C Series itself and which we anticipate should safeguard the future of C Series production jobs in Belfast for the foreseeable future.' Shares in FTSE 100 education publisher Pearson jumped today after it moved its full-year profit expectations to the upper end of its previous guidance. Pearson, which recently sold media properties the Financial Times and the Economist to focus solely on education, said sales continued to fall, especially in the US, but also noted that they were stabilising thanks to growth in its digital business. The group now expects adjusted operating profit for this year to come in between 576million and 606million, up from previous expectations of 546-606million. Shares in the company were almost 8 per cent higher at 670.75p on Tuesday. Pearson, which provides school textbooks, academic courseware and electronic testing, today posted a more optimistic trading statement In a trading update for the first nine months of this year, Pearson said sales in its US higher education courseware - or the textbooks it sells through libraries at university campuses - fell 1 per cent. This is its biggest division, but the group said the decline had been partially offset by significantly lower returns of textbooks which had not been sold and good growth in digital revenues, which were up 11 per cent. Pearson, which provides everything from school textbooks to academic courseware and electronic testing, has seen sales decrease as students increasingly rent textbooks instead of buying them. It has had a difficult time of late and in February posted a dismal set of annual results, which included a 2.5billion impairment charge, pushing it to a record 2.6billion loss. But Pearson chief executive John Fallon was positive after the less-than-expected decline in US sales and said: We are confident we are on a path to return Pearson to long-term and sustainable growth. This is encouraging but there is still a long way for us to go. The group also revised its guidance on taxation, expecting a 2017 rate around 16 per cent against a previous expectation of 21 per cent. Nicholas Hyett, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: In some ways its a rather mixed set of results. On the one hand profit expectations have been narrowed reflecting a revenue performance in line with management expectations and lower costs. On the other, sales continue to fall, particularly in the US, and current headwinds are expected to continue into the medium-term. However, he added that overall, these are positive results for Pearson. The imminent launch of the 300million share buyback is welcome, and favorable outcomes in historic tax issues mean that the adjusted tax rate for 2017 is expected to be 5 percentage points lower than previously thought. More important than these one-off benefits are signs that the fall in sales seems to be stabilising. That reflects good growth in digital courseware in the US, which is important since the groups strategy pivots on becoming the long term winner in digital learning. When Laurie and Nicole Luongo first saw reports of multiple deaths at a Florida nursing home following power outages caused by Hurricane Irma, they were in no doubt. Separated by thousands of miles and long before the harrowing details fully emerged, the sisters were united in one dread certainty; it was the same nursing home that had 'killed' their mother Mary a day before her 88th birthday. And if their voices had been heard, her death - and those of the Irma victims - could have been avoided, they say. Speaking at her home in Plantation, Florida, Nicole, 44, said: 'I know that if the alarms were heard by the appropriate people then my mother would still be alive and those people would still be alive. 'She deserved much better and so did the other residents who lived there.' A total of 14 residents of the Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills have now been pronounced dead as a result of the horrific conditions they endured on September 13 when the home became a hotbox as generators and air-conditioning failed. Scroll down for video Mary Luongo, 87, died in the care of the Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills in Florida on January 30, suffering subdural hematomas due to a fall at standing height. The elderly woman had Alzheimer's and was confined to a wheelchair, suggesting someone at the Florida rehabilitation center (pictured) pulled her out of her chair, her family say The incident is not the first death at the facility, as 14 died after Hurricane Irma hit on September 15. Their deaths are a result of when the air conditioning was knocked out and the nursing home became a hotbox Temperatures rose to a blistering 109.9 degrees but staff failed to evacuate the sweltering and dehydrated residents, despite the fact the home is located directly across from the hospital to which they were ultimately sent. Federal law requires nursing homes to stay between 71 and 81 degrees and the center was cited for violating generator regulations in 2014 and 2016. Today the home is a crime scene. It has been permanently closed and its 245 members of staff laid off as Hollywood Police Department execute a wide-ranging search warrant garnering everything from video surveillance, maintenance records, staff and visitor logs to protocol and training documents. For Laurie, 64, and Nicole - who along with their nine siblings are bringing a wrongful death suit against the home - it is cold comfort that the people they hold responsible for their mother's death may finally be brought to justice. Mary Luongo was pronounced dead on January 30, one day short of her 88th birthday. The cause of death as stated by Broward County Medical Examiner was 'bilateral subdural hematomas due to a fall from a standing height.' Mary suffered from Alzheimer's and was wheelchair bound. Her family say that for her to be standing, somebody would have had to pull her to that position. But the nursing home had not reported any fall and no member of staff had sought medical help, according to the Luongos. Instead, the hematoma flooded her brain undiagnosed and unchecked. The Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills is denying liability in the Luongo's wrongful death lawsuit but admitted liability to a previous 'elopement' incident mentioned in the suit. Gabriel and Libia Giraldo were seen in the sweltering heat at the Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills after Irma being cooled by a box fan and an open window Shocking footage emerged of an elderly woman slumped naked over a hospital bed (pictured) at the center. She was seen trying to keep herself cool in the sweltering conditions The inside of the Rehabilitation Center Hollywood Hills is in a state of disrepair after it was shut down due to being the subject of a criminal investigation after Hurricane Irma Two of Mary's daughters, Laurie and Nicole (left and right) have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the hospice due to their mother's death and slammed the home after the hurricane Laurie, a former VP of the Trump Hotel Collection who now lives in Las Vegas, explained that when the coroner gave the cause of death she felt her mother was the victim of a cover-up. She said: 'At that point I was angry and I knew that the nursing home killed my mother. I was certain that my mother fell in their care and they didn't report it. They did nothing.' Had it not been for a visit from her grandson Stephen, a firefighter and trained EMT, Laurie and Nicole, a cerebral palsy advocate and author, believe the family would have simply received a call telling them that Mary had died from natural causes. She said: 'It was only through God's grace that my nephew Stephen was there. She was slumped over in her wheelchair and she couldn't move. No feeling, no nothing. He determined there was something gravely wrong.' Alerted to the situation, Laurie immediately called the home and demanded they call for an ambulance, while her brother Anthony, 63 - who works locally as a school teacher - sped to his mother's side. Laurie recalled: 'I spoke to the nurse that I've always spoken to since my mom was a resident there and I said, "My nephew's a paramedic and a firefighter and he has seen my mom. She's unresponsive, she's having medical issues and he told you she needed medical attention right away." 'Her response to me was, "Her vital signs are good." I said, "Listen to me and listen to me carefully. Call an ambulance immediately."' But when her brother arrived at the home some 20 minutes later no ambulance had been called. This wasn't the first time a mishap happened at the center, the sisters claim that it let their mother go unsupervised in 2015. She had been found two miles from the home, on the ground, alone and eating dirt Mary (left aged 16 and right aged 80) was a first generation Italian immigrant and mother of 11. Selfless, charismatic and glamorous, Mary never remarried following her divorce from her husband who died 20 years ago, they said, but she was never short of male admirers Ultimately Mary waited more than an hour for the medical care she desperately needed. The next phone call Laurie received is one she will never forget. It was from her brother who was at the hospital with their mother. She said: 'He called me to say, "There's nothing they can do. Mom has a severe bleed in her brain and they recommend she go to hospice. She's not going to make it." At first they said she had 24 hours.' That was January 24, six days before Mary's death. But blindsided and shocked, the news of her dire condition simply made no sense to her family. They prayed for a miracle. Laurie said: 'When I got to hospice the doctor that was attending to my mom, because I'm power of attorney, was explaining the hospice process and she said, "At the time of your mom's passing we'll have to notify the coroner to take her body." 'I was startled by that. I thought mom would just go to the funeral home and she explained to me that there was such an excessive amount of bleeding that my mom suffered a traumatic event and it had to be recorded.' That, Laurie said, 'At that moment I knew that nursing home killed my mother.' Something had happened and they had sought to cover it up, Laurie believes. Chillingly Laurie and Nicole said, they were certain of this because it had happened before. In 2015, the sisters explained, their mother went missing from the facility - she had been gone for more than an hour before anybody even raised the alarm. In fact, Nicole said: 'I got three calls from a Miami number which I didn't answer because I don't know a single person in Miami. 'After the third one I sent a text saying, "Who is this?" And we got a response that said, "I'm from the Hollywood Police Department. We've got a women here with a bracelet with your name on it." 'And I know that bracelet was a bracelet I brought for my mom.' Their mother had been found two miles from the home, on the ground, alone and eating dirt. What happened was detailed later in a report from the Florida Department of Children and Families. The home had not notified Laurie, though she had her mother's power of attorney and called to speak with staff each week to check on her mother's well-being. And they had only just called her brother Anthony who lives closest to the home when Nicole received the telephone call from the cops. The family later learned that another resident had been seen wheeling their mother around that day and that a member of staff had simply left the two women together at the doors of an elevator, rather than accompany them from the first to the second floor. Instead they turned and walked out the front doors that slid open without security checks or alarm. Laurie said: 'Our family thought it was so egregious that a nursing home that is tasked with the responsibilities of safety and security and healthcare for elderly people who have no voice could lose somebody. 'They had no security, no systems in place, no alarm systems and no identification. Mary Luongo (left) with daughter Laurie Luongo taken at a hotel that Laurie once worked at The Luongo sisters said that after their mother fell and experienced trauma, the nursing home did not report any fall and no member of staff had sought medical help. Instead, the hematoma flooded Mary's brain, leading to her death A lawyer said speaking of the home handling the cases of Irma and Mary: 'The parallel that I see [between this and Irma] is this pattern in which somebody is wronged and instead of facing up to what they did wrong and trying to remedy it they try to cover it up' Hollywood Police Department executed a wide-ranging search warrant garnering everything from video surveillance, maintenance records, staff and visitor logs to protocol and training documents 'After the elopement incident the nursing home promised our family that they would take measures to ensure her safety and security and were very confident that nothing would happen again.' Unable to relocate their mother and reluctant to destabilize her when familiarity is a vital part of caring for patients with Alzheimer's, the family accepted the home's reassurances. The home had looked so promising when, in October 2014, they had reluctantly acknowledged that they could no longer care for Mary as they had since her diagnosis with Alzheimer's ten years earlier aged 75. Both Nicole and Laurie acted as her caregivers for many years. Mary was a first generation Italian immigrant and mother of 11; Nicole is the youngest, Laurie the second eldest. Selfless, charismatic and glamorous, Mary never remarried following her divorce from her husband who died 20 years ago but she was never short of male admirers. Laurie said: 'She was ahead of her time.' It pained her children to admit, as her condition worsened, that they could no longer look after the woman who had devoted her life to caring for them but there was no alternative but to place her in a home. And, they felt, they had little choice but to trust staff reassurances at that home that the lapse in care and security that saw Mary go missing from Hollywood Hills was a regrettable one-off. Instead, it was a pattern of behavior that, the family's attorney Harry Shevin claims, led directly to Mary's death and to the death of the Irma victims. He continued: 'This family was told and promised that they would do right by them and give more supervision [but] we know that this was a person who had to be stood up and fell from a standing position and had a traumatic fall. 'We know that was not reported and was covered up. When the family called they said, "Her vital signs are fine, she doesn't need emergency care," when in fact her head was slumped, she had a subdural hematoma that was flooding her brain and she was completely unresponsive. 'The parallel that I see [between this and Irma] is this pattern in which somebody is wronged and instead of facing up to what they did wrong and trying to remedy it they try to cover it up. 'In Irmawith this dehydration and suffering and cooking of these elder folk, as one is getting worse and a second is getting worseinstead of taking responsibility they're trying to push it under the rug.' In total, 141 residents were evacuated from Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills after it was already too late for some (pictured) According to Shevin, the 'very same people who swept it under the rug' when Mary Luongo went missing and when she fell and hit her head, are the ones who during Irma 'instead of confronting the situation was badswept it under the rug which allowed one person, two people, three people, four people all the way up to 10, 11, 12 [and now 14] people to suffer fatal injuries just like Mary Luongo'. He added: 'Because they cared more about protecting themselves legally than doing the right thing.' Laurie said: 'What they've done is unspeakable. To me it's criminal. Somebody needs to be held accountable. I will never get over how mom died. Ever.' Nicole added: 'They took my greatest source of joy away. And one of the questions we have is, if she would have gotten help earlier would she still be alive today? Would there be something that could have been done medically to change the outcome?' The family filed their wrongful death lawsuit in June, suing also over their mother previously going missing. They knew it was too late for their mother but they hoped that the alarm they raised might ensure that those still in the home received better care. The home has admitted liability for her 'elopement' but denies liability for her death. DailyMail.com was unable to obtain comment from the home. The family are devastated that the suit will not help those who died during Irma but now they are determined to fight for justice for both their mother and those victims. Nicole said: 'I know that my mom would want justice not only for her but for people that lived there, some of them she may have even known and been friends with.' Laurie said that she and her family believe their mother's death will show that the home had a 'history of negligence and incompetence' before the toll taken during Hurricane Irma. A visiting Islamic preacher from Iran told a Sydney mosque it is okay for a husband to beat his wife as long as he doesn't leave any red marks. Sheikh Taleb al-Khozaei, a Shia cleric aligned with the Iranian theocracy, was a guest lecturer at the Hussainayet Ale Yassin Mosque at Sefton, in Sydney's west. In an Arabic language sermon, he said it was permissible for husbands to lightly beat their wives 'as a last resort' if they had been disobedient. The western Sydney mosque which organised the visit has condemned that sermon promoting domestic violence and has vowed to bar him from returning. Sheikh Taleb al-Khozaei, a Shia cleric from Iran, justified domestic violence to a Sydney mosque Citing verse 4.34 of the Koran, Sheikh al-Khozaei said husbands could abandon their wives if they had been disobedient. 'He must beat her only enough to bring her back home if she leaves,' he said in a June sermon that was live streamed. 'He must beat her in a way that doesn't turn the skin red or dark.' He then proceeded to explain how husbands could abandon their wives in the bedroom. 'The first method is through advice, the second method is by abandoning them in the bedroom by turning his back towards her at night or sleeping in another place,' he said. 'The woman has honour, therefore by abandoning her you are humiliating her by making her feel that she has made a mistake by not serving her husband's rights.' This visiting Shia cleric from Iran said husbands could beat their wives as a 'last resort' Sheikh Taleb al-Khozaei's fundamentalist sermon also described the method of beating 'as a last resort'. 'Here, beating takes place. But which type of beating? Don't get me wrong,' he said. 'Islam is not a terrorist religion. The beating that doesn't cause an affect and is not a beating for revenge.' His sermon was based on section 4.34 of the Koran which advises husbands to abandon their disobedient wives. 'Admonish them, and leave them alone in the sleeping-places and beat them,' it says. The Hussainayet Ale Yassin Mosque denounced the sermon promoting domestic violence. 'We don't condone it and in our community we don't accept hitting of any kind,' it told Daily Mail Australia in a statement on Tuesday. 'I didn't know that he was going to say something like that and after he finished his speech I did tell him that he shouldn't have said it. 'Because of that we are not inviting him back anymore. 'I also was going to take that video of off website but I had forgotten about it, thanks for the reminder.' In February, Islamic Friendship Association of Australia founder Keysar Trad told Sky News presenter Andrew Bolt husbands could lightly beat their wives after trying to reconcile with flowers or a box of chocolates. 'This verse is saying really, is playing on the psychology of the man saying violence is a last resort,' he said, before apologising a few days later. Two months later, Women of Hizb ut-Tahrir made a video describing domestic violence as a 'beautiful blessing'. Sydney primary school teacher Reem Allouche told the women's arm of hardline Islamist political group Hizb ut-Tahrir that men could hit women with sticks, during a 30-minute discussion in Sydney's west with fellow panellist Atika Latifi. Advertisement Its one of the iconic photographs in the history of rock n roll. The four members of the band Kiss, in full make-up, making snowballs as they sit in the white stuff with a cheesy Christmas scene behind them. But like so much in showbiz, all is not as it seems. For a start it was taken in October in Los Angeles, so the snow isnt real. Instead it was plastic polyurethane, a toxic compound that it is no longer made. And while Gene Simmons, Peter Criss and Paul Stanley were happily mugging for the camera, the fourth band member, lead guitarist Ace Frehley, was so drugged up he could hardly walk. Photographer Neal Preston knew he had to move fast or Frehley would be lost to the shoot, but as he went to grab a lens, he heard a thud. He rushed back only to find Space Ace face down in the poisonous material, which was slowly turning red as he coughed up blood. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO KISS 1977 This is one of the most iconic photographs in the history of rock n roll. The four members of the band Kiss, in full make-up, making snowballs as they sit in the white stuff with a cheesy Christmas scene behind them ACE FREHLEY This is what it looks like when a real rock star is passing out. I knew that Gene (Simmons) and Paul (Stanley) were both 100 percent sober. The same could not be said for Ace who barely made it through the front door without help. AXL ROSE 1990 I had taken some pictures of Axl and his then-wife Erin Everly and had heard all the stories about his good days and his bad days. But this must have been a good day because he was great. He said he was going to the Record Plant so I tagged along and got this shot of Axl at his peak. GREGG ALLMAN 1973 Cameron Crowe and I were assigned to do a story on the Allman Brothers Band. This was in a motel room in Phoenix. Gregg was unlike anyone Id ever met. He exuded an ethereal magnetism so strong it cut through the druggy haze that always seemed to envelop him. ROD STEWART 1996 I dont know what it is about Brits that they think the funniest thing in the world is seeing a man dressed as a woman. This is Rod being getting make-up for an appearance in drag. I told him he looked like an older Miss Moneypenny. Frehley was bundled into a limo before anyone could call 911. The shoot was over before it had barely begun but Preston had got the one shot he needed for Creem magazines December issue. It along with another snap of Frehley face-down in fake snow with his six-inch wedges pointing at the camera are among dozens of pictures included in Prestons new book, Exhilarated and Exhausted, documenting his lifelong career as a rock photographer including his years as the tour photographer for Led Zeppelin. Prestons new book, Exhilarated and Exhausted, documents his career as a rock photographer Ive been beyond blessed, Preston, 65, told DailyMail.com in an exclusive interview in his office right under the flight path of the Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California. I had the opportunity to do what I love. If youre a musician, what you love is making music. Im a photographer, I love making pictures. Anyone who is able to do what they love for a living is lucky beyond belief. I never planned on this. It was fluke that some pictures were shown to some people who turned out to be concert promoters and started letting me and my buddies into shows in Queens, New York, and all of a sudden Im a published photographer. He spoke in a small room lined with filing cabinets containing at least a million photos he has taken in his near-50-year career. The first of his 122 cabinets is marked Abba-Aerosmith. The last is Young as in Neil to ZZ Top. And he has photographed just about everyone in between the one exception being John Lennon. I did see him once, he said. I was driving along 57th Street in New York about 1978 and I see John and Yoko coming towards me. Theyre walking west and Im driving east. I try to race around the block so I could see them again and park. But youd have a better time racing around Belgium in a quicker amount of time. By the time I had got around the block he had gone. That is one of my great regrets as a photographer and as a fan who reached puberty the night the Beatles were on Ed Sullivan. If its possible to reach full puberty in the space of an hour that happened to me. THE TRAVELING WILBURYS 1988 'George and Tom both pulled me aside to say they will start the shoot when Bob is ready. They are walking on eggshells around him. The first shot I took, Bob is way in the background hunched over playing pinball. (l-r Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, George Harrison with Bob Dylan in the background). RAT PACK 1988 Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra were playing in Oakland and it was in the round which is never easy to shoot because youre constantly chasing the shots. There is little structure to their show and they are facing away from me when suddenly Frank gooses Dean. What I love about this is that even though you cant see their faces you can instantly make out who it is in the shot. ELTON JOHN 1979 Elton John was at the Universal Amphitheater and it was warm. All of a sudden he passed out over the keyboard. I thought he was dead. A roadie came down and dragged him offstage. Ten minutes later he came back and finished the show. BOB DYLAN & JOAN BAEZ 1982 Bob and Joan were a couple but had split by the time this picture was taken. Its at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, a really nice moment. She is the only person who could get away with tousling Dylans hair. PETER TOWNSHEND 1982 The Who were traveling and Pete shows up in a bowler hat and spats. He is listening to this Walkman that looks so dated now. The other band members are in T-shirts and jeans. I only noticed recently that Pete was giving me the finger in this shot. He has taken plenty of pictures of the other three Beatles although none of Ringo made the book. He remembers being called by a contact to go to a house in Encino, California, for some shots of Tom Petty and a few friends. Toms gonna call you and hell give you the details, she said. When Petty called, Preston asked for directions. Well, its er, its um, er here, talk to George. So he hands the phone over to a guy named George, and this guy says Hi, this is George. I ask whats the address and its a distinctly Liverpudlian accent and I suddenly realize its George Harrison and he telling me what exit to get off the 101. Im in a haze now. I remember nothing about the rest of that phone call, but I managed to write the address. When he got to the house he found Petty not only with George Harrison, but also Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Jeff Lynne. They were just forming the Traveling Wilburys. I get to the house about an hour later, knock on the door and a roadie lets me in and I walk in and George is sitting at the table and I see Roy in the kitchen mixing some tea or something and I think this is pretty wild. But while Preston was in awe of Harrison in my world, a Beatle trumps anyone, he said the musicians were more worried about Dylan. George pulls me aside and takes me in this small room, closes the door and says: Now, listen to me, Bob is in a pretty good mood. Ill let you know when the mood is just right, Ill give you a sign and then well shoot, But we wont shoot until Bob is ready. TOMMY LEE 1989 It was in Detroit. Tommy came to the front of the stage in front of 20,000 people. He looks round mischievously thinking should I or shouldnt I? Then he decides to drop his pants. They were only down for a couple of seconds, but Boom. FOO FIGHTERS 1996 The Foo Fighters were rehearsing in a garage in Seattle. Its so loud, its like a 747 taxiing through the room. From that day on, my hearing was never the same. Ive seen a million shows and theyre all loud, but that day was something else. MOTLEY CRUE 1992 Sometimes you have these grandiose ideas, great on paper but they dont really work out once you put the shoot together. Shooting Motley Crue on a glacier in Canada was one of them. It was mind-numbing cold and to make matters worse the terrain was visually boring. Then Tom Petty walks in, gives me a hug and says: Now, Bobs in an ok mood. Its all the same thing. Theyre walking on eggshells around Bob Dylan. He got the picture he wanted of the five Wilburys together, but not before another shot of four of the supergroup with Dylan way in the background, hunched over playing pinball before he would join his bandmates. Many years later, after Georges 2001 death, his widow Olivia visited Preston with a documentary about the Traveling Wilburys. She had wanted him to see that it opened with a picture the roadie had taken of Prestons shoot. Of the five Wilburys, only Jeff Lynne and Bob Dylan are still alive and so many others that Preston snapped over the years are now gone, most recently Petty himself. Other pictures in the book include many who died before their three score years and ten were completed. Theres Prince and Glenn Frey, for instance, and Linda McCartney and David Bowie and Gregg Allman and George Michael and Marvin Gaye and the list goes on and on. Frank Zappa and Keith Moon and John Entwistle and Marc Bolan and Greg Lake and Stevie Ray Vaughan and Warren Zevon and Johnny Winter and Sid Vicious and Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison and Michael Jackson and Bob Marley and Freddie Mercury. I dont want to do the tally of the dead versus the living in the book, said Preston. Unfortunately, it aint stopping any time soon. One who is very much alive is Bruce Springsteen, and the picture Preston shot of him at Wembley Stadium in London during his Born in the USA tour over the Fourth of July weekend of 1985 is one of his favorites. He wanted something different and decided it should be Springsteen facing the camera with the immense crowd behind him. I went to his dressing room during intermission and I said I know youre playing to 80,000 people but Ive mounted this camera and there is a remote cable going down underneath the stage. So, when youre up there if you can turn around and play to the back of the house we could get an amazing shot of you where I could see your face with the entire crowd of Wembley in the background. BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN 1985 When you are on the road with a band you hit the wall, creatively and you start to come up with different ways of shooting. I superclamped my Nikon to the back railing and asked Bruce Springsteen to turn around and play to the back of the house so I could see his face with the entire Wembley Stadium crowd behind him. SID VICIOUS 1978 I was never a punk guy, I just never got it even though The Ramones went to my high school. But I somehow ended up at the Sex Pistols last concert in San Francisco. Three hours after the show the band broke up. He kind of looked at me, not disinterested, but he had stuff on his mind and he said: Um, yeah, ok, I turned around and walked out of the dressing room. I was still never dreaming that he actually would do it. So, I go underneath the stage and during Hungry Heart, the fourth song of the set, I see his boots coming through the little slats in the wood and I know he is right on top of me and I count to 10 and I just press the button, 36 frames and the camera fires right on top of me. I didnt know what I had until I developed the film the next day. He was completely mugging for the camera and I couldnt have been happier. He completely nailed it. But things didnt always go right. During a stopover in Vancouver, Canada, Nikki Sixx decided it would be a good idea for Preston to take pictures of Motley Crue on a nearby glacier. It would cost tens of thousands of dollars to fly two helicopters there but Sixx thought it was worth it. The next day Tommy Lee and the bands two other members turn up early, rarin to go. Two helicopters are fueled up, pilots at the ready. But Sixx had had a hard night and is awol. The following day it was a go. As they flew, the pilot told Preston it was going to be cold. I said How cold? He said Pretty fing cold. It was something like minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit. We land about 100 yards away from each other and its so cold the band doesnt want to have to walk up to our chopper and we dont want to walk to theirs. We do the diplomatic thing and decide to meet in the middle which now means we can only shoot in two directions unless I want to get a helicopter in the shot which in retrospect wouldnt have been a bad idea. It is just mind-numbing cold. I have to take one test frame on a Polaroid. I wait and I pull the Polaroid and it cracks in two. It is so cold it just cracked like an icicle. This is the uh-oh moment. Eventually Preston got three rolls of film off. But all we could think about was saving our lives and not freezing to death. Making matters worse, the all-white of the glacier meant the pictures were virtually unusable. I dont know that they were ever used for anything. That was one expensive experiment. And Preston admits he almost killed Fleetwood Macs Stevie Nicks on an At Home shoot for People magazine. She was living in Venice, California, at the time and she had a condo on the top floor of a six-story building right on the sand in Venice Beach and we had a great shoot, she couldnt have been easier. MICHAEL JACKSON & FREDDIE MERCURY 1980 Queen were playing the LA Forum and suddenly Michael Jackson walks in. As the tour photographer I am there to get the pictures and this was just catching a moment. PETER TOWNSHEND & ROGER DALTREY 1976 Pictures are like your kids or dogs. You dont have a favorite one. But if I had to pick one it would be this one of The Who with Pete and Roger in midflight and mid-frenzy during a show in San Francisco. When people ask me what I try to capture, I say its not the motion, its the emotion, and this has both. I truly, truly, love this photo. STEVIE NICKS 1981 I knew Stevie was beautiful and talented but I didnt know how hysterically funny she is. To this day I tell her if this rock n roll thing doesnt work out you could be a stand-up comic. This was taken on the roof of her building in Venice, California. Because of the high wind my assistant is grabbing her ankle. Thats why it is not a full-length shot. BOB MARLEY 1979 Believe it or not, Bob Marley was opening for The Clash at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. I was never into reggae and wasnt there to shoot Marley, but I knocked off a couple of rolls out of boredom. It was only later that I realized what a strong image it was. But I still wanted that one last killer photograph and I said almost at the same time as she said: Why dont we go up on the roof and shoot as the sun is going down? I thought it was a fantastic idea. She had put on this white outfit with long sleeves of fabric that really caught the wind like a sail on a sailboat. The second I put the camera to my eye the wind starts kicking up. She is posing and the sleeves are going all over the place, and I realize about three frames in that the wind is going to be blowing so hard that one gust and she could be blown right off the side of the building, six stories down, which would have ruined Time Lifes insurance departments day. There was only one thing to do because we were getting great photos and the sun waits for no man and it was going down. So I made an assistant of mine lie on his stomach out of frame and I said You hold on to that white boot you do not let go. And that is what he did. She stayed in one place and we got great pictures. But that is why you dont see her boots in the pictures. There could be no full-length shot. Preston grew up in Queens, New York. He went to Forest Hills High, the same school that spawned The Ramones. He was already photographing bands and set to go to the Philadelphia College of Art when he realized the career he had chosen didnt need a degree. I marched into my mom and dads bedroom and I said: So we need a carton milk, a loaf of bread, Im not going to go to college and can I pick something up for you at the other store. I just slipped it in there and thankfully they were cool with it. One of the hazards of Prestons job has been a loss of hearing. But it hasnt been gradual exposure to loud music so much as one day in a Seattle garage with the Foo Fighters. Preston grew up in Queens, New York. He went to Forest Hills High, the same school that spawned The Ramones. He was already photographing bands and set to go to the Philadelphia College of Art when he realized the career he had chosen didnt need a degree Hilton Hotel, San Francisco 1988 Thats not a wrecked hotel room! Thats my traveling office. I was on the Amnesty International tour and I hadnt been in the room for six hours. You can see the room service trays and 50 boxes of yellow Kodak and the green Fuji boxes, film, strobes, cables, equipment cases Im sure theres a roach or two in the ashtry. But that was normal for me. His work space is lined with filing cabinets containing at least a million photos he has taken - the first of his 122 cabinets is marked Abba-Aerosmith, the last is Young as in Neil to ZZ Top As I go in, the roadie taps me on the shoulder and says: Here, youre gonna need these. Earplugs. I say, no, no, no, no. I dont need them. I never liked working with them because I can feel my shutter fire but I cant really hear it properly. He said: Trust me, youre going to need them. I tell him its really hard for me to use. He tries one more time, he says: Just take em. By now Im saying, Hey, I work with The Who, I work with Kiss, and I throw some more names around. He says: As you wish, and closes the door behind me. Within 15 seconds my teeth are rattling. Within 25 seconds Im sure theres blood coming from my eardrums. Its so loud, its like a 747 taxiing through the room. Its beyond loud. Thirty seconds in I had a migraine and 45 seconds in I was physically ill to the point of having to vomit literally. And I didnt want to vomit in front of the band or into my camera bag. I dont know how these guys played. I shot out the roll, opened the door and got out of there and went to the bathroom. From that day on, my hearing was never the same. I can never, ever, have a first date in a crowded restaurant. Last time I did that, I went out with this actress and we met in this bar and every question shes asking, Im going Huh? What? So all I can say is: Thank you Dave Grohl for that. A homeless man who told police he was 'mad at God' is going to prison for burglarizing four New York City houses of worship. Queens District Attorney Richard A. Brown announced on Monday that 24-year-old Joseph Woznik has been sentenced to 1.5 to 4.5 years after pleading guilty to burglary as a hate crime and other charges. The break-ins occurred in March and April at a Hindu temple and three churches. Homeless Joseph Woznik, who told police he was 'mad at God' following a string of burglaries, was sentenced to 1.5 to 4.5 years (pictured in his mugshot) Joseph Woznik, 23, burglarized four houses of worship in Queens, New York from March to April Woznik pried open donation boxes, ransacked church offices, broke windows and pawned a church's digital camera. One church was hit three times. At the time of the burglaries, Woznik told investigators that 'I'm mad at God.' 'I don't like church no more. I don't want to deal with religion. I'm sick and tired of hearing about religion. 'I don't break into houses, only churches. I break in to get back at God,' he added. Woznik allegedly struck an Episcopal church, a Romanian Orthodox church, a Hindu temple and a Roman Catholic church. He allegedly struck an Episcopal church, a Romanian Orthodox church, a Hindu temple and a Roman Catholic church (Pictured: Bangladesh Hindu Mandir Temple in Flushing) Rev. Paul Lai of the St. James Episcopal Church in Flushing, Queens, said his parish was struck on March 23, April 2 and again on April 10 Rev. Paul Lai of the St. James Episcopal Church in Flushing, Queens, told New York Daily News that his parish was struck on March 23, April 2 and again on April 10. 'He needs help,' Lai said. 'It's hard to say why he has such hatred against God.' Woznik made off with $1,800 the first time, a Canon digital camera the second time, and three checks swiped from the church's checkbook on his third heist. Lai explained that the cash was meant for church ministries, including programs for senior citizens. Woznik's first heist was at the Bangladesh Hindu Mandir Temple in Flushing, where an employee found three donation boxes forced open upon arriving at work on March 21, officials said. He also targeted the Blessed Virgin Mary Help of Christians Church using a hammer to pry his way inside a donation box - and swiping $20 from beneath a statue of the Virgin Mary. He was finally caught on April 11, a day after he stole a gold-plated communion tray at the St. Mary Romanian Orthodox Church in Elmhurst, police said. Following his arrest, Woznik was charged with burglary as a hate crime, grand larceny as a hate crime, possession of stolen property, criminal mischief and other counts. He also targeted the Blessed Virgin Mary Help of Christians Church (pictured), using a hammer to pry his way inside a donation box - and swiping $20 from beneath a statue of the Virgin Mary Dustin Lawson has been indicted on 36 federal charges after serial killer Todd Kohlepp told authorities he helped him get guns A man who serial killer Todd Kohlhepp told authorities helped him get guns because Kohlhepp was a convicted felon has been indicted on federal weapons charges. Dustan Lawson signed paperwork saying the 12 guns and five silencers were for himself when he bought them from 2012 to 2016, but instead gave them to a man only identified as 'T.K.,' according to allegations in a 36-count federal indictment filed last week. Prosecutors and investigators have refused to say who 'T.K.' is. But the convicted killer of seven likely made it easier on investigators, saying in a taped interview shortly after his arrest last November that 'you may want to seriously talk to Dustan Lawson and give him a heads up.' 'Those suppressors were bought legally for about three minutes,' Kohlhepp said, laughing on the video released after he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison for several killings in South Carolina spanning 13 years. Prosecutors and investigators didn't return emails and phone calls asking to confirm 'T.K.'s' identity and reporters in the courtroom for his arraignment Monday said they never mentioned who Lawson sold the guns to. But the brand and type of many of the guns seized in search warrants on Kohlhepp's homes in Spartanburg County matched the types of weapons listed in Lawson's indictment. Lorraine Lucas, whose son Brian was killed by Kohlhepp in 2002, said she attended the hearing on her own because prosecutors wouldn't talk to her about the case. 'It doesn't make sense. Everybody's asking - who is T.K. even though we all seem to know,' Lucas said. Serial killer in court: Todd Kohlhepp , 47, appeared in South Carolina court on May 26 and pleaded guilty to seven counts of murder and other counts A phone number for Lawson was disconnected, and his lawyer did not respond to email and phone messages seeking comment. Lawson's bond was set at $30,000 at Monday's hearing. He was appointed a public defender. Lawson faces up to 10 years in prison on each of the 36 charges if he is convicted. Kohlhepp was arrested after investigators checking cellphone records for a missing couple noted it was last pinged near his land. They found a woman chained inside a storage container for two months after Kohlhepp killed her boyfriend. Kohlhepp (left), told authorities Lawson (right) helped him obtain 12 guns and five silencers Kohlhepp pleaded guilty earlier this year to killing another couple in December 2015 and killing four people inside a motorcycle shop in 2002. He is serving a life sentence. Kohlhepp was barred from having guns because he was a convicted felon. He moved to South Carolina in 2001 shortly after spending 14 years in prison for kidnapping in Arizona. Authorities there said that the then 15-year-old forced a 14-year-old neighbor back to his home at gunpoint, tied her up and raped her. Lawson was mentioned by Kohlhepp during a casual conversation with an investigator after he admitted to the killings, according to authorities. Kohlhepp described the man who bought his weapons as 'a dumbass' and 'a 32-year-old lazy kid who never had a daddy. He basically lived with women all his life.' Spartanburg County sheriff's investigator Tom Clark then asked Kohlhepp who Lawson bought the guns for. 'That's an easy solution. That was all legit,' Kohlhepp said on his videotaped interview. 'So he legally bought the guns?' Clark asked. 'Yes, sir. And then I modified the hell out of them,' Kohlhepp replied. Netflix will invest nearly $8 billion into original content over the next year as it tries to build the world's biggest video subscription service. The company is sinking deeper into debt in its relentless pursuit of more viewers, leaving Netflix with little margin for error. But the big burden that Netflix is shouldering hasn't been a major concern on Wall Street so far, as CEO Reed Hastings' strategy has been paying off. The billions of dollars that Netflix has borrowed to pay for exclusive series such as House of Cards, Stranger Things, and The Crown has helped its service more than triple its global audience during the past four years - leaving it with 109 million subscribers worldwide through September. Scroll down for video Netflix will invest nearly $8 billion into original content over the next year. Stranger Things (pictured) is one of the company's most popular series The billions of dollars that Netflix has borrowed to pay for exclusive series such as Stranger Things and The Crown (pictured) has helped its service more than triple its global audience House of Cards, which stars Kevin Spacey (pictured), was also a huge money-maker for Netflix That figure includes 5.3 million subscribers added during the July-September period, according to Netflix's quarterly earnings report released Monday. The growth exceeded management forecasts and analyst projections. Netflix's stock rose 1 per cent in extended trading, putting it on track to touch new highs on Tuesday. The shares have increased by about five-fold during the past four years. If the subscribers keep coming at the current pace, Netflix may surpass its role model - HBO - within the next few years. HBO started this year with 134 million subscribers worldwide. 'We are running around 100 miles an hour doing our thing around the world,' Hastings said during a review of the third-quarter results. The big burden that Netflix is shouldering hasn't been a major concern on Wall Street so far, as CEO Reed Hastings' (pictured in March) strategy has been paying off But Netflix's subscriber growth could slow if it can't continue to win programming rights to hit TV series and movies, now that there are more competitors, including Apple , Amazon, Hulu and YouTube. If that happens, there will be more attention on Netflix's huge programming bills, and 'then we could see an investor backlash,' CFRA Research analyst Tuna Amobi says. 'But Netflix has been delivering great subscriber growth so far.' Netflix's long-term debt and other obligations totaled $21.9 billion as of September 30, up from $16.8 billion at the same time last year. That includes $17 billion for video programming, up from $14.4 billion a year ago. Most of the programming payments are due within the next five years. Netflix expects to spend $7 billion to $8 billion on programming next year, up from $6 billion this year. The Los Gatos, California, company has to borrow to pay for most of its programming expenses because it doesn't generate enough cash on its own. Netflix burned through another $465 million in the most recent quarter, which is known as 'negative cash flow' in accounting parlance. For all of this year, Netflix has warned that its negative cash flow might be as high as $2.5 billion, a trend that management expects will continue for at least the next several years as it tries to diversify its video library to appeal to divergent tastes in about 190 countries. Nonetheless, Netflix has remained profitable, under US accounting rules. The company earned $130 million on $3 billion in revenue in its latest quarter. And management appears to be trying to ease the financial drain with price increases of $1 and $2 a month for most of its 53 million subscribers in the US before the end of the year. The higher prices are likely to increase Netflix's revenue by about $650 million next year, RBC Capital Markets analyst Mark Mahaney predicted. But the price increases could backfire if it provokes an unusually high number of subscribers to cancel, something Netflix faced when it raised rates in the past. Most analysts believe that's unlikely to happen this time, and Netflix supported that thesis with its growth forecast. Management expects to add 6.3 million subscribers during the October-December period, slightly more than what analysts are anticipating, according to FactSet. Netflix has long argued its borrowing makes sense to gain a huge advantage over rivals as people increasingly watch programming on internet-connected devices Netflix has long argued its borrowing makes sense to gain a huge advantage over rivals as people increasingly watch programming on internet-connected devices. Plus, management points out that its total debt is small compared with its market value of nearly $90 billion. With such a valuable stock, Netflix theoretically could sell more shares to raise money. But that would be more difficult to do if Netflix's stock price plummets amid concerns about its debt. Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter also questions the long-term value of Netflix's programming line-up. 'What is something like Season One of 'House of Cards' worth to you if you already have watched it? It's probably only worth something to someone who hasn't been subscribing to Netflix for the past five years,' Pachter said. 'So that means Netflix has to keep reinventing itself virtually every year, and that costs money.' Advertisement A White House photographer has shared what it was like behind the scenes covering Michelle Obama. For four years, Amanda Lucidon was the only female photographer on the White House staff and she was given the job of covering the then-First Lady. Now Lucidon, 38, has shared personal reflections in a new book, 'Chasing Light'. The book is a collection of about 150 candid photographs of the first family and is filled with the lessons the photographer says she learned along the way. White House photographer Amanda Lucidon has shared what it was like behind the scenes covering Michelle Obama (Then-First Lady Michelle Obama snuggles against then-President Barack Obama before a videotaping for the 2015 World Expo) Lucidon has shared her favorite pictures of the former first lady from both public engagements and private moments (Pictured, the then-first lady snuggles up with family pets Sunny and Bo during a video taping in the Map Room of the White House in April 2014) Lucidon has shared her favorite pictures of the former first lady from both public engagements and private moments (Pictured, the then-First Lady greets Peace Corps volunteers in March 2015 in Cambodia) Now Lucidon, 38, has shared personal reflections in a new book, 'Chasing Light'. The book is a collection of about 150 candid photographs of the first family (The then-first lady throws her hands in the air as she participate in a filming for the Animal Planet Puppy Bowl on the South Lawn of the White House in October 2013) For four years, Lucidon was the only female photographer on the White House staff and she was given the job of covering the then-First Lady, 53 (Pictured, the then-First Lady speaks with Taiko drummers in March 2015 in Japan) Snapshots of Obama with her husband and daughters are interspersed with candids during trips to Cambodia and Japan where she is seen speaking with school children and dignitaries alike (Pictured, the then-First Lady is guided through the torri gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Japan) The book is filled with images of Michelle Obama, 53, both in public and private moments. Snapshots of her with her husband and daughters are interspersed with candids during trips to Cambodia and Japan where she is seen speaking with school children and dignitaries alike Lucidon traveled to 20 countries and numerous US cities with the then-First Lady's team, listening to her work and speak and growing to see her as a role model. 'She taught me so many things, but if I had to identify things that I visit in my daily life, one thing was to be fearless because fear can stop us a lot of times to reaching new heights and possibilities,' Lucidon told Good Morning America. To make sure she was always on time and never late, Lucidon adopted a mantra: The motorcade only waits for one person...and it's never you. She added: 'Working at the White House was a very transformative time for me. I found confidence. I learned about myself. I learned about pushing boundaries. I learned about embracing my own story and my own background. 'The first lady always taught us the challenges that you've encountered in your life are actually your strengths. They're not your weaknesses. They're the things that teach you resilience.' Then-First Lady thanks students for sharing their inspirational stories after a 'Let Girls Learn' event in Cambodia in March 2015 Lucidon traveled to 20 countries and numerous US cities with the then-First Lady's team, listening to her work and speak, growing to see her as a role model (Pictured, Eigen Onishi thanks the then-First Lady for her visit to Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist temple) Students welcome then-First Lady Michelle Obama and First Lady Bun Rany as they arrive at Hun Sen Prasat Bakorng high school in Siem Reap, Cambodia To make sure she was always on time and never late, Lucidon adopted a mantra: The motorcade only waits for one person...and it's never you (Pictured, Mony Pech guides the then-First Lady on a tour of Angkor Wat in Angkor, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia) Then-first Lady Michelle Obama delivers remarks regarding the 'Let Girls Learn' initiative to Peace Corps volunteers at the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Then-First Lady Michelle Obama visits Ta Phrom temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia The then-First Lady sit inside Ta Phrom temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia Lucidon also shared some of the logistics of her job, saying that she often felt like she was running trying to stay ahead of the first lady. 'Im 5'4 and the first lady is much taller, so even when shes walking, Im running, she told The Washington Post. Lucidon shared some of her favorite photos - many never-before-seen images - and the stories from behind the scenes that highlight a personal side of the first lady. 'I wanted to make sure that this book is a collection of candid images that shows you something that you didn't know,' Lucidon told Good Morning America. 'She can adapt to each of these situations and she's just really genuine and thoughtful. But also loves to have fun.' Lucidon shared some of her favorite photos - many never-before-seen images - and the stories from behind the scenes that highlight a personal side of the first lady (Pictured, Taiko drummers perform with the then-first lady at Fushimi Inari Shinto Shrine in Kyoto) Lucidon also shared some of the logistics of her job, saying that she often felt like she was running trying to stay ahead of Michelle Obama (Pictured, the then-first lady, Chief of Staff Tina Tchen and Peace Corps Director Carrie Hessler discuss the successful launch of 'Let Girls Learn' in Cambodia) 'I wanted to make sure that this book is a collection of candid images that shows you something that you didn't know,' Lucidon said (Pictured, the then-first lady concludes her tour of Angkor Wat in Cambodia) The author says she came up with the title for the book in that she saw Michelle Obama as a light who inspired others. 'Chasing Light' is available in bookstores Tuesday (Pictured, Amanda Lucidon, left, and the book 'Chasing Light', right) The author says she came up with the title for the book in that she saw Michelle Obama as a light who inspired others. 'I just hope that people chase the light inside themselves. I hope that people see the light inside themselves,' she said. 'And sometimes we need other people to bring that out in us. Mrs Obama was one of the people who brought it out in me. So I'm really grateful.' 'Chasing Light' is available in bookstores Tuesday. North Korea's deputy U.N. ambassador warned Monday that the situation on the Korean peninsula 'has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment.' Kim In Ryong told the U.N. General Assembly's disarmament committee that North Korea is the only country in the world that has been subjected to 'such an extreme and direct nuclear threat' from the United States since the 1970s and said the country has the right to possess nuclear weapons in self-defense. He pointed to large-scale military exercises every year using 'nuclear assets' and said what is more dangerous is what he called a U.S. plan to stage a 'secret operation aimed at the removal of our supreme leadership.' Hours later U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan said the United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea. Looking for something? Kim Jong-Un's government is claiming nuclear war could break out 'at any moment' Pyongyang has been rattling sabers right back at Donald Trump since the U.S. president began warning about the communist country's nuclear ambitions Really? North Korea's deputy UN ambassador now claims that the entirety of the U.S. mainland is 'within our firing range' President Donald Trump has mocked Kim Jong-Un as 'rocket man' and blasted his government for testing both missiles and nuclear bombs Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. Kim In Ryong, North Korea's deputy ambassador to the United Nations, has long complained about sanctions against his country, and now warns of imminent war 'Eventually, we don' rule out the possibility of course of direct talks,' Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. 'Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail,' he said. Kim said that this year, North Korea completed its 'state nuclear force and thus became the full-fledged nuclear power which possesses the delivery means of various ranges, including the atomic bomb, H-bomb and intercontinental ballistic rockets.' 'The entire U.S. mainland is within our firing range and if the U.S. dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe,' he warned. In this anti-Trump leaflet believed to come from North Korea, the texts in Korean read "Mad dog Trump" (top), 'Will kill 25,000,000 people in North Korea" (top R); the text on the bomb reads "Destroy North Korea completely", the two comments at right read: 'He is crazy' and 'The war will break out if we leave him' The U.S. now says it won't rule out directly talking about nukes with Kim Jong-Un's government Kim's speech follows escalating threats between North Korea and the United States, and increasingly tough U.N. sanctions. Russian President Vladimir Putin said Monday that his country is curtailing economic, scientific and other ties with North Korea in line with U.N. sanctions, and the European Union announced new sanctions on Pyongyang for developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday that diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the North Korean crisis 'will continue until the first bomb drops.' His commitment to diplomacy came despite President Donald Trump's tweets several weeks ago that his chief envoy was 'wasting his time' trying to negotiate with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, whom he derisively referred to as 'Little Rocket Man.' North Korea's deputy U.N. ambassador called his country's nuclear and missile arsenal 'a precious strategic asset that cannot be reversed or bartered for anything.' 'Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the U.S. is thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiating table under any circumstances,' Kim said. This April 2017 photo appeared to show a vehicle carrying a new intercontinental ballistic missile at a military parade in Pyongyang He told the disarmament committee that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea North Korea's official name had hoped for a nuclear-free world. Instead, Kim said, all nuclear states are accelerating the modernization of their weapons and 'reviving a nuclear arms race reminiscent of (the) Cold War era.' He noted that the nuclear weapon states, including the United States, boycotted negotiations for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons that was approved in July by 122 countries at the United Nations. 'The DPRK consistently supports the total elimination of nuclear weapons and the efforts for denuclearization of the entire world,' he said. But as long as the United States rejects the treaty and 'constantly threatens and blackmails the DPRK with nuclear weapons ... the DPRK is not in position to accede to the treaty.' Mince pies at six for 2 from Tesco have beaten the best of the high street, including expensive upmarket brands, in a Christmas taste test. A survey of festive food makes clear it is possible to eat well over the festive period without going into the red. The results come from the Good Housekeeping Institute which said stores have invested in improving the quality of their premium lines. Tesco Finest mince pies topped the Good Housekeeping Institute's guide and cost just 2 for a pack of six The Tesco Finest mince pies cost 34p each, yet outscored much more expensive artisan rivals from famous names like Selfridges, Bettys, and Gails. The judges praised the attractive, light-gold pastry topped with a festive snowflake-shaped lid, sprinkled with sugar. Sainsbury's Taste the Difference champagne is just one supermarket product proving buyers don't have to break the bank this festive season They said: We loved the mouth-watering Christmassy aroma of mincemeat and mixed spices. These pies tasted delicious, too - juicy mincemeat infused with cognac and port for a subtle alcoholic kick. The balance between sweet and tart is spot on. Waitrose chestnut smoked salmon was judged the finest on offer out of 23 put to the taste test Looking across all the main Christmas food and drink categories, Marks & Spencer and Aldi took the honours with four wins each. There were also wins for budget price premium products from Iceland and Asda. M&S was best for turkey, cranberry sauce, prosecco and brandy butter and also scored well in many other categories. In a test of frozen turkeys, the winner was the M&S British Oakham Turkey Crown with Pork, Sage & Onion Stuffing and Bacon Lattice at 27. Marks & Spencer was judged the best place on the high street to bag a turkey for the family this Christmas It was also the runner up with its M&S British Whole Turkey at 11.25 per kilo. Aldi claimed the top two positions in the prestigious Christmas pudding category with products from its premium range. First was its 7.99 Specially Selected Golden Topped Christmas Pudding and the 9.99 Specially Selected Exquisite Vintage Christmas Pudding. At just 3, this sauce was judged the best, beating 23 others in the Good Housekeeping Institutes' taste test It also sold the best meat stuffing with the Specially Selected 6 Pork & Caramelised Red Onion Baubles Wrapped in Bacon. Its vegetarian alternative to turkey, Specially Selected Vegetable Parcels made with spinach, leek and West Country cheddar, were number one. The chains Maynards Late Bottled Vintage Port 1992, which is just 9.99, won its category. Experts at Good Housekeeping carried out blind taste tests on 316 products, which is 50per cent more than last year. Aldi's Christmas pudding - priced at 7.99 - beat 32 others to rise to the top of the category in the festive taste test Its Food Testing Manager, Angela Trofymova, (correct) said: Supermarkets understand that consumers tend to trade up over Christmas and many have focused on their premium ranges. Luxury supermarket Marks & Spencer has proved that shelling out a little more where possible can take your festive dining experience to the next level, while budget supermarket Aldi shows you can get cost-effective quality without breaking the bank. Consumer director at the organisation, Caroline Bloor, said: Christmas is stressful enough without worrying whether your Christmas pudding will have the wow factor and whether your turkey will come out dry. Asda's Extra Special chunky Christmas pudding stuffing and deer in duvets are helping consumers keep prices down this year This year we tested more products than ever before so consumers can be safe in the knowledge that our recommendations really are the tastiest Christmas food and drink products British retailers have to offer. Sainsburys claimed three category wins. The best champagne under 40 was Taste the Difference NV Champagne Brut (79/100) at 18. Its premium Taste the Difference range Tuxford and Tebbutt Blue Stilton and Mulled Wine claimed top prizes. Other winners were the Waitrose 1 Chestnut Smoke Salmon; Iceland Luxury 10 Pigs in Blankets; and Bettys Soft Iced Star Christmas Cake. Free filtered drinking water is to be offered by some Pret A Manger outlets in a move to cut down on plastic bottles. The chain will offer the service at three veggie outlets in London and eight others in Manchester by the end of the month. The idea is that shoppers will refill their own bottles with filtered water, rather than buying water in a plastic bottle. The chain will also sell refillable glass bottles which customers can use and fill when they visit the stores. Bosses at the chain are considering going even further with an outright ban on plastic bottles for water and soft drinks. Pret A Manger will soon be handing out free filtered water at its veggie stores in London and Manchester Details were revealed this week in a blog by the company's chief executive, Clive Schlee, who said it is part of a wider programme to cut down on waste. The company, along with other chains, is under pressure to reduce the use of throwaway coffee cups, which cannot be recycled along with other paper waste as they have a plastic lining. Currently, its outlets are offering a 25p discount on drinks to people who bring in their own reusable cup. Mr Schlee said: 'Plastic bottles are a problem. We all feel it even before we hear the shocking statistics about millions of tonnes ending up in our oceans each year and imagine the devastating impact this has on marine wildlife. 'Pret has always tried to lead on food waste we've been donating our unsold food to the homeless every night since our first shop opened more than 30 years ago. 'We are making inroads on the problem of packaging waste by reducing where we can and making more of it recyclable. 'Plastic bottles present a real challenge and there are two schools of thought within Pret. 'The passionate environmentalists say stop selling them altogether, while the pragmatists say make it as easy as you can for customers to use fewer plastic bottles. The chain is on a mission to reduce its plastic usage and is even considering getting rid of bottled water and soft drinks altogether 'We are looking carefully at both options. I tend towards the pragmatist end myself. 'Starting today, all three Veggie Pret shops - extending to our Manchester shops by the end of the month - will be encouraging customers to fill up their bottles for free using new filtered water stations. 'These shops will also start selling two sizes of reusable glass bottles alongside our regular water bottles, so the choice is clear. 'The aim is to understand if customers will choose to refill a bottle rather than buying a new plastic one.' Mr Schlee has asked for feedback from customers on how to deal with plastic bottles. Lisa Wilkinson has been spotted for the first time since sensationally announcing her departure from Channel Nine's Today show, smiling as she left her Sydney home to meet her mother. The television reporter appeared to be in high spirits on Tuesday morning as she pulled out of her Cremorne driveway in her Audi convertible. 'My phone has gone into complete meltdown, but I'm going off to see my mum,' she told The Daily Telegraph. 'She's very worried and I'm just going to go and let her know I'm OK, in fact I'm more than OK, I'm great.' 'I've always been a very hard worker, and I've always been very proud of my work and I've loved every single job I've ever had.' Scroll down for video Lisa Wilkinson has been spotted for the first time since announcing her departure from Channel Nine's Today show, smiling ear-to-ear as she left her Sydney home to meet her mother 'I'm more than OK, I'm great,' Wilkinson (pictured) said on Tuesday morning The veteran journalist's decision has been supported by her husband Peter FitzSimons (pictured with Wilkinson and former TV presenter Steve Liebman in Mosman) He happily told the media as he left the house barefoot: 'She's having the best sleep in she's had in 10 years!' Wilkinson announced her departure from the program on Monday to take an offer from a rival network as host on Channel Ten's The Project (pictured is the 57-year-old's Cremorne home) WILKINSON'S SALARY NEGOTIATIONS - A report published in 2016 claimed Today show host Stefanovic signed a contract worth up to $9 million over three years, depending on ratings - It is also reported his co-host veteran journalist Lisa Wilkinson signed a contract worth $1.1 million a year - In 2017, Nine Network offers Wilkinson a $700,000 pay rise, bringing her proposed salary to $1.8 million - Wilkinson reportedly demanded $2 million annually and rejected the offer - It is now alleged Wilkinson will earn $2 million with Channel 10 as a host of The Project and The Project on Sunday Sources: The Australian Advertisement The veteran journalist's decision has been supported by her husband Peter FitzSimons, who was also spotted outside the couple's home as the 57-year-old enjoyed some time off. He happily told the media as he left the house barefoot: 'She's having the best sleep in she's had in 10 years!' Wilkinson announced her departure from the program on Monday to take an offer from a rival network as host on Channel Ten's The Project. Wilkinson was reportedly the glue that held the Today show together when Karl Stefanovic became 'a turn off' for female viewers, media commentator Peter Ford has claimed. Wilkinson had seen 'secret market research' that showed she was the popular morning show's biggest asset, he told Kyle and Jackie O on Tuesday morning. 'Karl had become... a bit of a turn off for women, and she was keeping it all together and was kind of carrying him,' Ford said. Wilkinson quit after Channel Nine were unable to match her salary to that of co-star Karl, who is believed to be earning close to $3 million a year. Lisa Wilkinson was reportedly the glue that held Channel Nine's Today show together when Karl Stefanovic became a 'turn off' for female viewers According to media commentator Peter Ford (pictured), Wilkinson had seen 'secret market research' that showed she was the popular morning show's biggest asset Stefanovic (pictured) addressed his co-host Lisa Wilkinson's sudden departure from the Channel Nine show on Tuesday in an odd tribute Wilkinson is seen chatting on the phone while in Mosman with her husband A report from The Australian published last year claimed Stefanovic signed a contract worth up to $9 million over three years, depending on ratings. The report also claimed Lisa's contract was only worth $1.1 million per year - just under a third of what Karl could earn. Sources at the Nine Network told The Daily Telegraph negotiations saw Lisa's salary reach up to $1.8 million, but Wilkinson reportedly demanded $2 million and rejected the $700,000 pay rise. It is now alleged Wilkinson will earn $2 million with Channel 10 as a host of The Project and The Project on Sunday, according to The Daily Telegraph. Wilkinson's new salary will make her the highest paid woman on Australian television, the publication reported. Ford said Karl's contract was drawn up when he was fielding offers from Channel 7 and before the breakdown of his marriage, when 'a lot of people turned off him'. 'She [Wilkinson] was the strength on that show, she was the magnet,' Ford said. 'She knew that, knowledge is power, and she was able to go in there with her manager and bargain very bravely having that sort of knowledge about how important she was in the big scheme of things.' Ford claimed that while Nine were willing to go close to matching Karl's salary, in the end they 'just weren't willing to pay it, now they've got a PR disaster on their hands.' He said Wilkinson would 'be lucky' to get one million out of Channel Ten, who are navigating a takeover from U.S. giant CBS after going into voluntary administration. 'Karl had become... a bit of a turn off for women, and she was keeping it all together and kind of carrying him,' Ford claimed Wilkinson reportedly quit after Channel Nine were unable to match her salary to that of co-star Karl, who is believed to be earning close to $2 million a year In a statement released on behalf of Nine CEO Hugh Marks and shared by Lisa to Twitter, the pay dispute was all but confirmed as the reason behind her departure. 'Nine today confirmed we are unable to meet the expectations of Lisa Wilkinson and her manager on a contract renewal for a further period.' the statement began. We express our gratitude to Lisa for her 10 years with the Today Show and are disappointed we find ourselves in this position. 'Nine will be going in another direction and will be considering our options in the coming weeks and months.' 'The partnership between Lisa and Karl has taken the show to the success it is today and we thank Lisa for everything she has done for the show and for Nine over the past 10 years. 'We all wish her well for the future.' Today show host Karl Stefanovic addressed his former co-host Lisa Wilkinson's sudden departure from the Channel Nine show on Tuesday in an odd tribute, crediting the veteran journalist with her ability to perform housework before coming to work. 'For 10 years Lisa has dragged herself out of bed at 3.30 in morning, fed the dogs and cats, put a load of washing on and came into work and sat on my left to inform you at home to what's happening in the world,' Stefanovic began his speech on Tuesday morning. 'For 10 years she handled those brutal, brutal hours with grace, beauty, intelligence and a wicked, wicked sense of humour.' 'For whatever reason she won't be doing that anymore and it was a surprise to us all. It's safe to safe to say that we're all a little but shocked and it will take a little while to sink in.' Today Show news presenter Sylvia Jeffreys appeared to address the salary gap in her own tribute to Wilkinson on Tuesday. 'I did speak privately with Lisa last night and I thanked her and I congratulated her because ultimate this is an exciting time for Lisa,' Jeffreys said as she held back tears. 'It is a start of a brilliant and exciting new chapter and I will be cheering her on as I always do as she takes on this next challenge.' Jeffreys credited Wilkinson as a role model for young women. 'Here is the thing, seeing is believing for young girls and for young women and what they see in Lisa is a strong, influential, fun and compassionate woman at the very, very top of her game and that is a very powerful thing,' she said. Salim Mehajer has missed his third court date in a week - with his lawyer presenting a medical certificate for injuries he sustained in a car accident. The controversial former deputy mayor was due to face Sydney's Downing Centre Local court on Tuesday morning over an alleged assault of a taxi driver in April. But the 31-year-old was involved in a car crash with a third party on Monday and rushed to Westmead Hospital. A car crash and the death of his grandmother has meant former Auburn Council deputy mayor Salim Mehajer failed to show at a series of court appearances He did not appear over the assault matter on either day. Police prosecutor Amin Assaad on Tuesday said a police officer had made at least five unsuccessful attempts to contact the doctor named on Mehajer's certificate. But he said he took the document at face value and didn't oppose an application by Mehajer's solicitor to vacate two separate hearings on assault charges. 'We can't establish contact with that doctor,' the police prosecutor said. 'The number on the medical certificate is that same number that's listed publicly. It's probably a busy morning.' Mehajer's first two-day hearing has been postponed until January 31 next year and his other one-day hearing is set down for February 19. Speaking to reporters this week, Mr Abbas said the crash was an accident. When asked about the chances of it, Mr Abbas reportedly said: 'That's ridiculous if you're insinuating anything'. The car accident follows a run of bad luck for the property developer. On October 11, Mehajer failed to show at the District Court over a dispute regarding a marble spiral staircase at his Lidcombe mansion. He told his solicitor for that matter, Penny Musgrave, he was 'in Canberra following the death of my grandmother'. Mehajer's damaged 4WD Mercedes AMG is pictured here Mehajer was placed in a stretcher and neck brace and taken to Westmead Hospital. He was discharged last night According to a written decision, District Court Judge Judith Gibson said: 'Mr Mehajer failed to appear at the hearing today despite being served with a subpoena to appear and give evidence by the plaintiff, which is itself an unusual step for a party to take....' 'There can be no doubt that the defendant is well aware of the hearing date,' Judge Gibson said. 'He provides no details to explain his failure to comply with the self-executing orders, or of the reasons why his grandmother's recent death requires him to remain in the Australian Capital Territory.' The case went forward and Mehajer was hit with a stonemason bill of nearly $670,000 plus legal costs. The Sydney identity - who captured the spotlight after his lavish wedding to former partner Aysha - had major back surgery last year. Mehajer is on the court list for both civil and alleged criminal matters on Wednesday and Thursday. He did not respond to a request for comment. New Zealanders are bracing themselves for a crisps crisis as farmers warn of a potato shortage. The imminent 'chipocalypse' as it has been dubbed by some is due to persistent wet winter weather on the islands hitting hit potato production, resulting in higher prices. The price for a kilogram of potatoes has already risen sharply in the past year from AUD $1.63 in August 2016 to $2.12 a year later, an industry body said. New Zealanders brace for a crisps crisis as farmers warn of a potato shortage (pictured) Persistent wet winter weather on the islands has taken a hit potato production resulting in a drought (pictured) Prices of potatoes are higher than usual going from a $1.63 to $2.12 in a year Rising prices captured mainstream attention when warnings begun appearing on some supermarket crisp aisles. One sign posted by a customer online, with a picture of an empty shelf, said: 'Attention customers... 'Due to a Nationwide Potato shortage, we will be having trouble stock Potato Chips. This will likely last until the New Year. Sorry for the inconvenience.' The supermarket, Pak n' Save, later said there had been an 'ordering error' and tried to play down fears of a shortage. Social media users have taken to Twitter to make light of the lack of potatoes Higher than normal prices captured mainstream attention when warnings begun appearing on some supermarket crisp aisles One person used a drink-driving Auckland Transport advertisement to reference the chip shortage But Foodstuffs, which owns New Zealand's largest supermarket chains, said farmers had made them aware that potato products such as crisps and packaged, frozen chips might soon be affected, and the shortages could last into the New Year. 'The grower community is highlighting a potential future potato shortage due to bad weather,' said Antoinette Laird, head of external relations for Foodstuffs. 'This has not impacted our business as yet, and we are working with our suppliers to minimise any potential impact.' Seasons are inverted in the northern and southern hemispheres - so it is now spring in Australasia, following a particularly bad winter. Theresa May will today demand that developers build homes on the land they own amid figures showing the ten biggest companies are sitting on more than 400,000 unused plots. The Prime Minister will chair a summit with housebuilders at Downing Street to challenge them to construct more properties. She is expected to raise the controversial practice of landbanking, which is blamed for hindering housebuilding as private companies sit on plots that have been granted planning permission. A Government source said Mrs May would be laying down a challenge to developers over the issue in a robust but constructive way. Theresa May will today demand that developers build homes on the land they own amid figures showing the ten biggest companies are sitting on more than 400,000 unused plots She will hold discussions on how to tackle the housing crisis with developers, councils and housing associations. According to recent figures, the ten biggest developers have more than 400,000 plots earmarked for development, according to ousing charity Shelter. Property developers are accused of sitting on the land while it rises in value before building on it. But the House Building Federation, which represents the industry, said housebuilders do not make money from landbanking. The Prime Minister has put housing at the centre of her strategy to win over the younger generation, who are struggling to get on to the housing ladder. At her conference speech this year, she vowed to fix the broken housing market by building more houses, ensuring councils release land and increasing investment in the Governments Help to Buy scheme. She also said she would give councils the powers to ensure developers actually build homes once theyre given planning permission to do so. Todays summit will also look at skill shortages in the construction industry and consider whether wider reforms of the planning system are needed. Companies Persimmon, Taylor Wimpey, Barratt Group, Bellway, Redrow, Bovis, Berkeley Group, Galliford Try, Crest Nicholson and Countryside had a total of 404,040 plots in their current land bank, made up of land which has planning permission for housing or is close to getting it, according to Shelter. This represents more than six years worth of housebuilding at their current build rate, the charity said. It also estimated that the companies have 481,910 plots in their strategic landbank - land held by them and other organisations in the expectation they will get planning permission. Companies Persimmon, Taylor Wimpey, Barratt Group, Bellway, Redrow, Bovis, Berkeley Group, Galliford Try, Crest Nicholson and Countryside had a total of 404,040 plots in their current land bank All the FTSE 100-listed major housebuilders have increased their land bank stock on last year, according to their latest financial reports. The last study by the Local Government Association (LGA) found there were nearly 500,000 plots in Britain which had planning permission but had not been built on. Steve Turner, of the Home Builders Federation, denied that housebuilders didnt make money from sitting on land. Housebuilders do not make money from landbanking unnecessarily. Premises that are being landbanked are at various stages in the planning process, he said. The planning process is extremely complex and in many cases it can take three to four years to get a sight to the point where builders can actually build. As the industry looks to increase output, it needs a supply of housing. Builders do not make money from sitting on land. A chief deputy United States Marshall traded sex for prime parking spots in front of his office building, a government investigation has revealed. According to a report from the Justice Department Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released on Monday, an investigation was launched after they received a tip detailing the unnamed marshal's behavior. He had been 'engaging in sexual activity with numerous different women within government space,' the report said. A chief deputy United States Marshall was gifting prime parking spots outside his office building to multiple women that he was having sexual affairs with (stock) The Justice Department Office of the Inspector General (OIG) launched an investigation after receiving a tip detailing the unnamed marshal's behavior 'The OIG also found that in connection with his personal relationships, the CDUSM allowed multiple unauthorized non-government employees whom he was dating to park their personal vehicles within and in front of government property.' It was also found that the marshal drove his dog in his government official vehicle, a direct violation to United State Marshal Services policy. To add insult to injury, officials stated that the marshal made attempts to hinder the investigation, including making a false statement to the OIG and giving unauthorized disclosures of nonpublic information. The statement added: 'The OIG substantiated the allegation that the CDUSM ... contacted some of the women identified and encouraged them not to disclose to the OIG any information concerning their sexual activity within the government space, and initially lied to the OIG about his sexual activity on government property.' For all his transgressions, the marshal will not be prosecuted. Advertisement Comedian Sean Hughes, a team captain on BBC pop quiz Never Mind The Buzzcocks, died yesterday aged 51. The Irish stand-up star, a panellist on the show for six years, had liver disease following 'years of hedonism'. Hughes was 24 when he became the youngest person to win the top prize in British comedy, the Perrier Award, at the 1990 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Yesterday fellow comedian David Baddiel called him 'one of the best comics of our generation' as others paid tribute to the star. Sean Hughes, the comedian who became the youngest to ever win the Perrier Award back in 1990, has died aged 51 Comedian Sean Hughes has died at the age of 51, his management has confirmed, after he had liver disease following 'years of hedonism' Hughes, who was a team captain on Never Mind the Buzzcocks on BBC Two (pictured with Phill Jupitus and host Mark Lemarr) Irish stand up comedian Hughes (left at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August 2013) also appeared in Coronation Street. He is pictured on the show (right) with Sue Cleaver who played Eileen Grimshaw The comedian told his 50,000 Twitter followers that he was 'in hospital' in his final social media post last week In 2015 Hughes spoke about the 'extreme hedonism' which once saw him overdose on amphetamines. He revealed that the previous year he had quit drinking after his jacket caught fire at a party, but added that his friends were 'uncomfortable' when he was sober. 'I quit drinking totally for a couple of years because I was having too many 'proper' drinks,' he said. 'I knew I was drinking too much when I had to be put out at a party. I don't mean I was asked to leave. My jacket was on fire. 'When I started drinking again, I thought my friends would be concerned, but they welcomed my return with a 'great to have you back' attitude. Apparently I'm tedious when sober. People were uncomfortable when I wasn't drinking. It made them question their own habits.' In another interview, he predicted: 'I honestly don't think I'm going to live very long. Many comedians don't. It's a very stressful existence.' A representative for Hughes confirmed he died in Whittington Hospital, North London, after being taken there during the night. His final tweet, posted on October 8, simply said: 'In hospital.' Paying tribute yesterday, comedian Sarah Millican said: 'So sad to hear of Sean Hughes death. He was the first comic I ever saw live. A very funny man. Awful news.' Jack Dee wrote: 'Very sad to hear about Sean Hughes. Started on the circuit with him back in the day. RIP.' Hughes was not one to shy away from controversy, sometimes finding himself in hot water for his jokes including calling Pope Benedict a Nazi. Hughes was born in London to Irish parents, a mother from Cork and a father from Dublin, and had two brothers, Alan and Martin. The family moved back to Dublin when he was six, and he recalled 'getting stick' for his Cockney twang. From 1996 to 2002 he was a team captain on the BBC 2 comedy quiz show Never Mind the Buzzcocks, alongside Phill Jupitus and Mark Lamarr (pictured with Michael Greco) Hughes pictured with Never Mind the Buzzcocks presenter Mark Lamarr and the other team captain Phill Jupitus Hughes, who has died today at the age of 51, once spoke about how an amphetamine overdose nearly took his life Hughes never married and had no children, explaining in 2015: 'I have lived on my own for most of my life and I am very happy. 'I don't think I am cut out to get married and have kids. I am quite selfish and like to do things my way.' As well as starring on Buzzcocks with Phill Jupitus and Mark Lamarr, Hughes was also an actor, appearing in The Last Detective, Coronation Street, Agatha Christie's Marple and Casualty, and produced two collections of prose and poetry. Roy Dotrice has died at the age of 94. Born in Guernsey, he developed a taste for acting while a PoW in the Second World War. He played Leopold Mozart in the Oscar-winning 1984 film Amadeus, and had countless television roles to his credit, most recently appearing in Game Of Thrones in 2012. His daughter Michele played Betty in Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em. Hughes (pictured at Cornbury Festival in Oxfordshire in 2011) was reportedly suffering from cirrhosis of the liver Hughes (pictured in 2007 at the Gardner Arts Centre in Brighton) was the youngest person to win the coveted Perrier Award - now known as the Edinburgh Comedy award - in 1990 Illegal immigrants caught committing even minor crimes in France such as shoplifting are to be deported, Emmanuel Macron has announced. The President said tougher measures were needed to fight lawlessness, and especially terrorism. Mr Macron made the announcement in a live TV address from the Elysee Palace in Paris on Sunday night. Emmanuel Macron has announced that illegal immigrants caught committing even the most minor crimes will be deported It followed revelations that a Tunisian man linked to Islamic State who stabbed two young women cousins to death in Marseille on October 1st had been arrested for stealing from a shop two days earlier but was then released. Ahmed Hanachi, 29, had no right to residency when he was picked up in the eastern city of Lyon. Hanachi had used seven aliases as he travelled around France and neighbouring countries, making a mockery of the EUs border security. He was meant to be placed in custody after his arrest, but there was no magistrate available to process him, and the local secure centre for immigrants was full. This allowed Hanachi to take a train to Marseille, where he murdered Laura Paumier, 21, and Maruranne Harel, 20, before himself being shot dead by a soldier in an anti-terrorism patrol. We are not taking all the steps that should be taken, said Mr Macron. Well thats going to change. The centrist Mr Macron, who was elected to office in May, said security was the most important aspect of his presidency because his face primary job was to protect our citizens. Police investigating after Nice terrorist Mohamed Lahouaiej-Bouhlel killed 86 in Nice. France remains in a state of emergency France remains under a state of emergency following a series of savage attacks carried out by Islamic State and al-Qaeda operatives. They have ranged from ones involving suicide bombers brandishing Kalashnikov assault rifles, to others involving knives and vehicles being used to carry out murders. Despite this, United Nations experts have attacked Frances tough new counter-terrorism bill, saying it puts the countrys human rights record at risk. Mr Macrons bill is designed to allow France to end its two year state of emergency by transferring certain exceptional emergency policing powers into permanent law. UN rapporteur Michel Forst said last month: The UN is watching France on this because of Frances international impact and standing. What France does is not trivial. We want France to do better so it doesnt inspire bad practice in other countries. Staring at the ceiling, willing sleep to come to no avail, is a wearing nightly trial for up to a third of British adults. I should know Im one of them. For most of my life, Ive struggled to get to sleep, going through stretches where Ive survived on just four or five hours a night, having taken almost as long as that to drift off. But what if simply watching a blue light beamed on to that ceiling Ive become so familiar with could lull me to sleep in a mere eight minutes? Staring at the ceiling, willing sleep to come to no avail, is a wearing nightly trial for up to a third of British adults A gadget called the Dodow claims to do just that. This small, plastic disc, which you place on your bedside table, projects a blue ring that gently expands to cast a large, circular glow on the ceiling, before contracting back to a pinprick of light. You synchronise your breathing with it inhaling as the ring expands, then exhaling when it contracts. You can set it to run for eight or 20 minutes, depending on how long you wish to use it before falling asleep. This approach is designed to help sleeplessness caused by stress, and the maker says that slow, yogic breathing (six full inhalations and exhalations per minute) can dampen the bodys response to stress, reducing the release of hormones such as cortisol and taking the body out of fight or flight mode into a relaxed state where sleep can take over. A gadget claims to be able to lull you to sleep in eight minutes using a blue light Having tried everything from chamomile tea to cognitive behavioural therapy in my quest for a better nights sleep, Im keen to put the Dodow to the test. Ill admit being initially sceptical who hasnt heard the warnings to avoid blue light emitted by televisions and smartphones before bed, as it confuses the bodys internal clock? But the manufacturer says the light from the Dodow is too dim to have that disruptive effect. Instead, blue light is used as the colour has been proven to have a relaxing effect. On the first night, I settle down early to watch the light on the ceiling. While I manage to relax and breathe deeply and slowly, I cant do it in time with the light and, when it automatically switches off after eight minutes, I am still wide awake. I try again over the following evenings. I decide not to worry about matching my breaths to the pulses and instead see if the hypnotic quality of the light has any effect another suggestion in the instructions. This works a little better, and I end up breathing in a similar if not precisely matched pattern to the pulses anyway. Overall, I find the lamp, though dim, is still too bright. I sleep best in total darkness and, ultimately, watching a light in an effort to doze off proves distracting. So, most nights, Id give up and turn it off. But in the two weeks I spent using it, I did twice fall asleep within eight minutes of settling down; incredibly unusual for me. In the morning, I feel refreshed and positive. So, scientifically speaking, do the Dodows claims stand up? The companys website references a lot of research into the role of nervous system activation in sleep problems, although there have been no specific studies done using the Dodow itself. Dr Neil Stanley, an independent sleep scientist, explains: You need three things to get to sleep. A bedroom thats designed for sleep dark, quiet, cool, comfortable; a relaxed body; and a quiet mind. The quiet mind is key. Some people will quite naturally practise meditation, or mindfulness, which helps achieve that. Others listen to music, and some may benefit from a light such as this to help them breathe slowly. But it seems to be a technological solution to a problem that could be remedied by learning to count your breaths. This gadget is an aid for people who dont sleep well because they dont wind down. But thats different from insomnia, which is a medical condition that should be diagnosed by a doctor. This is not a treatment for true insomnia. On the Dodow website, there are plenty of anecdotes from users who have invested 44 for one and report positive results, saying it has helped them relax and fall asleep faster. Theres no doubt that learning meditative breathing and using it to release your mind of worry can help you achieve a healthy slumber. Whether you personally need a Dodow to teach you is, of course, another matter. For more information, visit soda.shop Residents of Sydney's most notorious public housing complex are being told not to feed the local rats, as the city is plagued by a worsening rodent problem. A day after pictures emerged of a rat the size of a small cat found dead in a family's backyard, Daily Mail Australia can reveal residents in inner-city Surry Hills have been feeding the creatures. 'Please do not feed rats or pigeons or leave food or rubbish out of bins,' a sign in a Family and Community Services (FACS) office window opposite Northcott towers in Belvoir Street states. This sign appears in the window of a Family and Community Services office in Surry Hills Pictures of a monster rat show a man with a plastic bag holding the huge rodent by the tail Northcott towers, opposite the Family and Community Services office in Sydney's Surry Hills The sign telling residents not to feed rats is stuck up with other community service messages 'Housing NSW asks that residents dispose of rubbish thoughtfully and not feed the pigeons or rats.' The sign appears in a window with posters advertising interpreter services, the Salvation Army, the Surry Hills Drug Action Team and Northcott Community Sharps Bin. Kandas Jordain, who lives nearby, said the extraordinary warning was needed. 'There's an elderly woman who sits out and feeds the ibises and the pigeons and the rats,' Mr Jordain said. 'I've told her off a few times. Every time I see her with a plastic bag I confront her.' Mr Jordain said the ongoing light rail construction in Devonshire Street, coupled with rubbish left to rot outside buildings, contributed to the rising number of rats around his home. Bags of rubbish are strewn in a Surry Hills street near the continuing light rail construction Rats, including rattus norvegicus are a constant problem in large cities including Sydney The Family and Community Services office where the 'do not feed the rats' sign is posted 'I've got them running under my unit,' he said. 'When the sun goes down we'll start hearing the rats running around. 'You can hear them of a night time scurrying in and out.' The FACS office caters for residents including those who live across the road in the 14-storey Northcott towers, which have a reputation for drug abuse, high unemployment and violent crime. Earlier this week a family from Alexandria displayed a giant rat they found dead in their backyard. The family was so afraid after the discovery they would not let their young daughter play in the backyard. Pictures of the monster show a man with a plastic bag holding the animal by the tail. A resident feeds pigeons in Ward Park, near the Northcott towers, in Sydney's Surry Hills Residents in Surry Hills have been told to stop feeding local rats and pigeons (stock image) A gigantic rat has been found dead in a Sydney family's Alexandria backyard (stock image) The rodent is about the size of a small cat. The grim find follows months of concern over rat problems across Sydney. Independent City of Sydney councillor Angela Vithoulkas has called for action on the issue. She said the rat problem had possibly improved in the city since March but was 'still very active in other areas'. 'It's the price you pay for progress and development when you choose to not address other factors that come up and allow them to get this bad,' Cr Vithoulkas said. Cr Vithoulkas said she was not surprised by the size of the rodent in the Alexandria backyard, stating Sydney rats were 'well fed'. She said the 'public health issue' called for the city to set up a 'rat taskforce.' The 'please do not feed rats' sign in the window of a Family and Community Services office A four-month-old boy is undergoing surgery after allegedly being slashed in the face with a knife multiple times by his grandmother in Brisbane. The attack is being treated as a 'domestic' incident, Queensland Police Inspector Daniel Bragg said. Police were called to a house on Ridgeway Street in the quiet and leafy north-west suburb of The Gap at 6.45am on Tuesday following reports of an assault. Police outside the Brisbane home where a four-month-old baby was found with serious cuts to his face on Tuesday Inspector Bragg said both the ambulance and police officers were 'visibly distressed' by the scene The boy's mother, who was visiting the home with her baby, was woken just after 6am by the sound of her child crying in his cot. 'The mother found the child in a distressed state with injuries to his face,' Inspector Bragg said. The mother allegedly found the grandmother in the boy's room and a large knife was later located nearby, police said. Police arrived to see the baby being taken from the home by ambulance officers. Police continue to investigate an alleged domestic violence incident in Brisbane, where a child was stabbed in the face The attack is being treated as a 'domestic' incident, Queensland Police Inspector Bragg said during a press conference Both the child and his mother were taken to the Lady Cilento Children's Hospital in South Brisbane, with the boy in a critical condition. 'It was distressing to see such injuries to such a small child,' he said. Inspector Bragg said both the ambulance and police officers were 'visibly distressed' by the scene. The grandmother is assisting police with their inquiries but charges have not been laid at this stage. Watching the Commons yesterday, I was reminded of one of those touristy alleys in an Asian souk where beggars proffer leprous palms, piteously croaking baksheesh! baksheesh! as they seek alms. Except the people doing the begging in Westminster were not wall-eyed unfortunates in dusty rags. They were backbench parliamentarians urging Theresa Mays Government to spend more money. You almost never hear an MP plead with the Government to spend less money. Yet spend less it most surely needs to do, unless it goes the socialist route of increasing taxes. Amber Rudd seems less keen to give Labour members the what-for they deserve than laying into Boris Johnson, writes Quentin Letts Debt repayments continue to cost us a packet. The latest statistics about our overseas wealth have just taken an unexpected hit, according to the Office for National Statistics (which helpfully timed its news just as Mrs May was heading to Brussels). For all George Osbornes boasts when he was Chancellor, the economys roof is not yet fixed. Many Members will go along with the rhetoric of reducing the national deficit and making sure our grandchildren do not have to settle our debts, etc, etc. The prime minister is facing demands from MPs to spend more money while others believe reducing the deficit should be her top priority All that sort of thing is trotted out like operatic recitative and few people bother to listen to it any more. But when it comes to their solos in the chamber, they leap to their feet, clutch their chests and savour that earnest vibrato demand more dosh for their constituencies. It happened yesterday at Home Office Questions. Time and again we heard complaints about public services being underfunded and overstretched. Time and again ministers replied that budgets were not being cut and spending was being maintained. You expect Labour MPs to be profligate, though that does not stop them criticising the Government for not clearing the deficit fast enough. But yesterdays more money brigade included such supposed small-state Tories as Philip Davies (Shipley), who worried about the police in his area not having enough money to prevent a worrying rise in crime. The new Tory from Clacton, Giles Watling, was also huffing about police budgets in his area. They could do with some additional funding, he said, wringingly wet. 'For all George Osbornes boasts when he was Chancellor, the economys roof is not yet fixed,' says Quentin Letts, as backbenchers urge May to spend more If Tories want more state spending, they should suggest where that money should come from. Police minister Nick Hurd (son of Douglas, and with much of his fathers charm) found various ways of saying no. Mr Hurd is an accomplished dead-batter. He looks raffish lovely curls at the back of his head but seldom says anything sufficiently vivid to merit inclusion in the news pages. This is an attribute for a certain type of junior minister. More important, Mr Hurd does not commit the Government to greater spending. There is usually something less predictably safe about the Home Secretary, Amber Rudd. Foreign secretary Boris Johnson has been on the receiving end of verbal attacks from Amber Rudd in recent weeks She may sound like Norman Fowler in drag but most days she has the added quality of simmering truculence. Keep her well out of range of jojutsu staves or she could soon set about us all like Inspector Clouseaus manservant Cato Fong. But after her verbal assaults on Boris Johnson in recent weeks, Thumper Rudd seemed less keen to give Labour MPs the what-for they deserve. Yesterday she faced a parade of Labour MPs who leadenly read their questions off scripts. What plonkingly useless parliamentary performers the likes of Stephanie Peacock (Barnsley E), Holly Lynch (Halifax) and Paula Sherriff (Dewsbury) looked, bleating lines off hand-held paper texts. They cried out for a rasping put-down but Miss Rudd was disappointingly mild in response. Same when we got on to Brexit. The day had begun with Ken Clarke (Con, Rushcliffe) on Radio 4 gaseously dismissing public opinion and saying his parliamentary chums (he called them my Members, as though leading a party) had the right to ignore the EU referendum vote. In the Commons, Eurosceptic Peter Bone (Con, Wellingborough) said it obviously made sense to plan for no-deal with the unhelpful EU. Nooooo! screamed Labours Mary Creagh (Wakefield). Miss Creaghs position was diplomatic nonsense. Did ministers say so? Nah. The political class was sticking together again. Apple's head of diversity has apologized after a comment she made about how '12 white, blue-eyed, blonde men in a room' could be considered diverse. In an email to her staff, obtained by TechCrunch, Denise Young Smith said she 'regretted' her 'choice of words'. The comments were made when the executive was attending the One Young World Summit in Bogota, Colombia. 'There can be 12 white, blue-eyed, blonde men in a room and they're going to be diverse too because they're going to bring a different life experience and life perspective to the conversation,' she said at the time, according to Quartz. Apple's vice president of inclusion and diversity Denise Young Smith (pictured, November 2015) has apologized after a comment she made about how '12 white, blue-eyed, blonde men in a room' could be considered diverse Young Smith has worked at Apple since 1997 where, up until recently, she was leading the company's worldwide talent and human resources division. Earlier this year, she took on the newly-created role of vice president of inclusion and diversity. At the conference, she said she thought diversity could also mean diversity of thought. While the comments drew applause, they also drew criticism, especially from those who note the lack of diversity that seems to permeate the various strata of Silicon Valley tech companies. Like a majority of those companies, Apple is mostly made up of white male staff. Last year, 77 percent of the company's engineers were male, and 55 percent were white, according to its annual inclusion and diversity report. Women make up 23 percent of Apple's engineering staff. Just 28 percent of the company's managers are female, seven percent of its managers are Hispanic and three percent of its managers are black (Pictured, Young Smith at September 2014) Women make up 23 percent of Apple's engineering staff. Just 28 percent of the company's managers are female, seven percent of its managers are Hispanic and three percent of its managers are black. Young Smith assured staff in her email that the Steve Jobs-founded company's commitment to diversity has not wavered. 'Understanding that diversity includes women, people of color, LGBTQ people, and all underrepresented minorities is at the heart of our work to create an environment that is inclusive of everyone,' she said, adding, 'there is much work to be done.' With her youthful glow and blemish-free skin, she does not look like a woman approaching her seventies. And although you might assume Meryl Streeps porcelain skin is the result of using expensive lotions and potions, the actresss biggest beauty secret doesn t cost a penny. The 68-year-old simply refrains from touching her face to maintain her radiant skin, according to journalist Fi Glover. When she was in the Iron Lady playing Margaret Thatcher [2011], her film company decided to do something different because of that junket thing thats just so bloody tedious and everyone just goes through the motions, Miss Glover said. So the director had a dinner party at Meryl Streeps house where she cooked an extremely nice cauliflower curry. And Meryl was there with her daughter and obviously places were limited. One of Meryl Streep's beauty tips is that she does not touch her face, according to journalist Fi Glover Miss Glover, who was at the party alongside Womans Hour presenter Dame Jenni Murray, told her Fortunately podcast: Do you know what Meryl told me that evening? We were talking about beauty tips, it was a fascinating evening full of political discussion and engagement. She said that her one beauty secret was never to touch her face. She never touches her face. Repeatedly touching your face can spread bacteria and can cause infection, according to Dr Nicole Chiang. The consultant dermatologist said: I would agree with Meryl Streeps advice and I would advise people not to touch their face too much. When you touch your face you are transferring germs which can potentially cause infections on the face. And if your skin barrier function is impaired, such as with dry skin or eczema, it can allow organisms to get into the skin. If you have acne, touching your face can make the condition worse and picking your skin can cause spots. Dr Chiang also warned that rubbing the skin can result in pigmentation and wrinkles. If youre rubbing you your eyes and face, a lot of rubbing can thicken the skin and cause lines She said: If youre rubbing you your eyes and face, a lot of rubbing can thicken the skin and cause lines. This can cause inflammation of the skin and can affect its pigmentation. Other celebrities who refrain from touching their faces include supermodel and it-girl Kendall Jenner, who said she was told from an early age to keep her hands away from her skin. She said: My sisters and my mum always told me ... to never touch your face because your hands are dirty. Streep, who won an Oscar for her role in the Iron Lady, has opted to age naturally and has previously said she doesnt believe in plastic surgery because it freezes your face. She said in 2010: To each his own. I really understand the chagrin that accompanies ageing, especially for a woman, but I think people look funny when they freeze their faces. The European Unions leading figures tentatively welcomed the election of a boy wonder in Austria but warned him about forming a coalition with the far-right. Brussels told Sebastian Kurz, who is poised to become the continents youngest leader, that he must form a pro-European government. The 31-year-old, whose Austrian Peoples Party topped the polls after promising a tough line on immigration, was yesterday weighing up a coalition with the countrys far-right Freedom Party (FPO). But in a letter of congratulations, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker indirectly warned Mr Kurz about attaching himself with the Eurosceptic party founded by former Nazis. Brussels told Sebastian Kurz (pictured), who is poised to become the continents youngest leader, that he must form a pro-European government Celebrations in Vienna as news filters through about the far-right Freedom Party's faring in the polls In a letter of congratulations, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker indirectly warned Mr Kurz about attaching himself with the Eurosceptic party founded by former Nazis The Brussels chief said he looked forward to the creation of an EU-supporting government with the leader-in-waiting who is nicknamed wunderwuzzi meaning wonderkid in Austria. The Conservative leader, who has promised to usher in a new political culture, has yet to reveal what shape he wants his new government to take amid intense closed-door negotiations. But he has previously expressed his desire to join forces with the FPO, which would see Austria join Poland and Hungary as EU countries with a distinctly anti-immigrant governments. German Chancellor Angela Merkel yesterday said that she was not dramatically concerned about key differences with the youthful leader as she also offered her congratulations. However she described the Freedom Partys electoral success a big challenge for Austria amid wider concerns prompted by the recent electoral success of right-wing nationalists in Germany. The far-right partys projected 26 per cent share of the vote is close to the partys all-time record of 26.8 percent in 1999. Austrian Foreign Minister and leader of the conservative Austrian Peoples Party (OeVP) Sebastian Kurz and his girlfriend Susanne Thier leave after casting their ballot in Austrian parliamentary elections on October 15, 2017 in Vienna, Austria Addressing key differences with Mr Kurzs approach to migration, the German leader said: If he becomes Austrian chancellor, I will of course go into this more deeply. The former foreign minister has also backed key EU reforms such as shrinking the scope of the European Commission that clashes with the vision shared by French leader Emmanuel Macron. Despite this, he described himself as pro-Brussels and even described the election result as a clear victory for the European Union. With thousands of votes still to be counted, projections showed that incumbent chancellor Christian Kerns Social Democrats had slipped to second place with 27 per cent of the vote. The left-leaning party has ruled in coalition with Mr Kurzs party for the last decade but another partnership is thought unlikely. With thousands of votes still to be counted, projections showed that incumbent chancellor Christian Kerns Social Democrats had slipped to second place with 27 per cent of the vote Speaking after polls closed, Mr Kern said: Austria has witnessed a massive rightward shift. We are open to talks... but there are enormous overlaps in the programmes of the Peoples Party and the Freedom Party. Mr Kurz, who was appointed as a minister at the age of 27, has made immigration his priority after helping close the Balkan route into Europe during the 2015 migration crisis. Austria has had almost 150,000 asylum claims since 2015, making the wealthy Alpine country of 8.75 million one of Europes highest recipients of migrants per person. Dozens of oBikes have been fished out of Melbourne's Yarra River yet again, as councils announce they will start impounding bikes not parked properly. A swag of the share cycles were pulled from the river on Monday in the second major clean-up this month. An image taken from near the Morell Bridge shows the bikes staked on a boat. A swag of the share cycles were pulled from the river on Monday in the second major clean-up this month Dozens of oBikes have been fished out of Melbourne's Yarra River yet again, as councils announce they will start impounding bikes not parked properly 'I was absolutely gobsmacked,' Bradley, who took the photo, told 3AW Breakfast. Three Melbourne councils have signed an agreement with dockless bike share operator oBike in a bid to clean up the inner city, which has been littered with the distinctive yellow bicycles. Melbourne, Port Phillip and Yarra councils on Tuesday announced an agreement with Singaporean-based oBikes, which will face tight deadlines to move bikes not parked properly. Councils will also be able to confiscate and impound oBikes and slug the operators with a $50 release fee for every bike. Some people have questioned whether anyone had even seen people riding the share bikes, which cost users from $1.99 per 30 minutes. The bike photo is one of dozens that has been shared on social media since the introduction of the dockless share bikes about four months ago in Melbourne and Sydney. The bike photo is one of dozens that has been shared on social media since the introduction of the dockless share bikes about four months ago in Melbourne and Sydney Three Melbourne councils have signed an agreement with dockless bike share operator oBike in a bid to clean up the inner city, which has been littered with the distinctive yellow bicycles Instead of dumping bikes in rouge places, the dockless share bikes are meant to be left in places that other riders can easily access without the need of a bike rack, or dock, to leave the bike. Critics say the Reddy Go's red bicycles and oBike's yellow bikes are too often being dumped in public spaces or vandalised. Randwick Mayor Lindsay Shurey says the bikes are often ridden by visitors downhill to beaches and then they lie 'strewn across our suburbs' because there is a lack of secure parking. 'These problems stem from the fact there is no obligation for the hirer to return the bike to an appropriate and secure location,' Ms Shurey said in a statement on Wednesday. 'We'll be seeking an agreement with the operators that they fund and implement appropriate bike parking locations or face financial penalties.' Are they bike racks? Melbourne councils announced they will impound bikes not parked properly How did you get up there? The bike company has pleaded with users to stop vandalising the bikes But with 4000 bikes across greater Sydney, the problem isn't reserved to the city's east. One image posted to social media by oBike shows 42 of their bikes being pulled from Melbourne's Yarra River in four hours. The company has pleaded with users to stop vandalising the bikes. A City of Sydney spokeswoman says the inner-city council strongly supports the sharing scheme but is concerned about the impact dockless bikes are having on the public domain. 'The dockless bike share industry is moving rapidly and the city is committed to working with operators and agencies to balance the council's long-term transport goals and the fair use of public space,' the spokeswoman said. Council has met with bike operators and asked the state government's Transport for NSW to help companies and councils address the issue. A spokeswoman for TfNSW said while councils are responsible for footpaths, roads and bike infrastructure there was no specific provision to regulate dockless bike share. 'We are working closely with councils and bike share operators to monitor the trials underway across Sydney and we will actively address issues that may arise,' the spokeswoman said. Images of bikes knocked down on the road, tangled up with others, hung in trees and dumped in lakes have been shared on social media, with Melbourne the main offenders WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has slammed the ABC, accusing the national broadcaster of breaching their own code of practice. Assange said he should have been asked for a response to comments made about him by Hillary Clinton during an interview which aired in Australia on Monday. The WikiLeaks founder's criticism comes as Four Corners interviewer Sarah Ferguson revealed on radio she thought Hillary Clinton 'has been through enough'. Scroll down for video WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange (pictured) has slammed the ABC, accusing the national broadcaster of breaching their own code of practice Assange said he should have been asked for a response to comments made about him by Hillary Clinton (pictured) during an interview which aired in Australia on Monday In response to a retweet (pictured) by Four Corners producer Sally Neighbour, Assange said it was 'pathetic' and showed the 'extreme unprofessionality' of the ABC 'A sad day for Four Corners,' Assange told Daily Mail Australia, 'WikiLeaks has a pristine record for accuracy. Clinton stands alone in suggesting otherwise.' 'There was no push back on Clinton's ridiculous conspiracy theories or use of weasel words. The single greatest contributor to Clinton's downfall was not brought up: her strategy to elevate Donald Trump. We were not contacted to rebut.' After first attacking Clinton for calling him a 'tool of Russian intelligence' and a 'nihilistic opportunist', Assange then took aim at the taypayer-funded broadcaster. In response to a retweet by Four Corners producer Sally Neighbour, Assange said it was 'pathetic' and showed the 'extreme unprofessionality' of the ABC. The retweet, since deleted, was a link to the Four Corners interview captioned 'Assange is Putins (sic) b****. We all know it!' Assange cited the ABC's own code of practice, which states: 'Where allegations are made about a person or organisation, make reasonable efforts in the circumstances to provide a fair opportunity to respond.' After first attacking Clinton for calling him a 'tool of Russian intelligence' and a 'nihilistic opportunist', Assange then took aim at the taypayer-funded broadcaster (pictured is Four Corners producer Sally Neighbour) Describing himself as an 'Australian political refugee', Assange first hit back at Clinton's claims in the interview. He called Clinton a 'notorious liar' and her statements 'defamatory', disputing her claims about the timing of WikiLeaks releases during the election. Interviewer Sarah Ferguson appeared on radio on Monday, where she revealed she deliberately avoided asking Hillary about Bill Clinton. 'I reckon she's been through enough,' she said when asked whether the pair discussed Bill Clinton's infidelity by Jonesy and Amanda on WSFM. 'You know it's a very interesting relationship. It's a very interesting marriage, but I don't think every time she sits in a chair she needs to be asked about her husband.' Interviewer Sarah Ferguson (pictured) appeared on radio on Monday, where she revealed she deliberately avoided asking Hillary about Bill Clinton Earlier in the interview Ms Ferguson mentioned Bill's opposition to her recent book What Happened, and his desire to change her schedule at the end of her campaign. Ms Ferguson was then asked whether she raised those issues with Hillary Clinton, or whether she mentioned Bill's cheating. Former Labor leader Mark Latham said Ms Ferguson's refusal to ask Clinton about her husband is evidence of left wing bias at the broadcaster. 'This interview with the far left journalist Sarah Ferguson tells you everything you need to know about the fake news media and the massive decline in journalistic ethics,' said Mr Latham. In response to a retweet by Four Corners producer Sally Neighbour, Assange said it was 'pathetic' and showed the 'extreme unprofessionality' of the ABC (pictured) Assange cited the ABC's own code of practice, which states: 'Where allegations are made about a person or organisation, make reasonable efforts in the circumstances to provide a fair opportunity to respond' (pictured) In response to Assange's remarks on social media, Ms Neighbour called the offensive tweet 'a mistake, since undone' and offered him full right of reply. 'We're not going to reward the ABC for breaching its own code of conduct,' said Assange. 'It's a typical yellow journalism tactic to defame someone who won't give you an interview -- then to offer them a 'right of reply'.' Ms Neighbour then claimed an interview request was made on September 19, to which Assange said that request was not an opportunity for right of reply. Assange has been living in the Ecuadorian embassy in London since 2012, and has been a vocal critic of Hillary Clinton. In response to Assange's remarks on social media, Ms Neighbour called the offensive tweet 'a mistake, since undone' and offered him full right of reply (pictured) After the Four Corners interview aired Assange tweeted a link to it captioned: 'There's something wrong with Hillary Clinton'. 'It is not just her constant lying. It is not just that she throws off menacing glares and seethes thwarted entitlement'. 'Something much darker rides along with it. A cold creepiness rarely seen' he said. WikiLeaks released emails and documents from the Democratic National Committee during the 2016 US presidential election. Assange has consistently denied accusations the releases were made on behalf of the Russian government, and has said the Russians were not the source of the leaks. Ms Neighbour then claimed an interview request was made on September 19, to which Assange said that request was not an opportunity for right of reply (pictured) Clinton has claimed WikiLeaks has never released anything about Russia, but Assange claims his organisation has published hundreds of thousands of documents pertaining to that nation. An ABC spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia: 'As Sally Neighbour stated on Twitter straight away, the retweet was a mistake and quickly undone. 'The program contacted Julian Assange regarding an interview well in advance, and the offer remains open. 'Hillary Clinton has spoken a lot about issues relating to her marriage over the past decades Sarah Ferguson had a lot of fresh ground to cover in her interview, which was more relevant to the news cycle.' Searchers set traps in far north Queensland to capture the crocodile Police believe she 'wandered in there [a crocodile infested area] and gotten lost' Ms Cameron was last seen in Port Douglas near OzCare Aged Care last week Anne Cameron, 79, is believed to have gotten lost and eaten by a crocodile Human remains have been discovered inside a crocodile that is believed to have eaten an elderly grandmother. Queensland police revealed on Monday a 4.3 metre crocodile was removed from the Mowbray River near Port Douglas, in Queensland's tropical far north. 'The crocodile, which is believed to be the one involved in the death of 79-year-old Anne Cameron, was examined by a specialist in Cairns [on Monday] with human remains being located inside, police officers said. A report is being prepared for the coroner. Ms Cameron was last seen in Port Douglas near an OzCare Aged Care facility last week. Scroll down for video Human remains have been discovered inside a 4.3 metre crocodile that is believed to have eaten elderly grandmother Anne Cameron (pictured), 79, who was last seen a week ago in Queensland's far north Police believe Mrs Cameron 'wandered in there [a crocodile infested area] and gotten lost' Baited traps were set along the creek as searchers hunted for the crocodile in muddy waters near mangroves Her remains and walking stick were later found by police next to Craiglie Creek, connected to Mowbray River, less than two kilometres from the aged care facility. Baited traps were set along the creek to capture the crocodile, which searchers believed hid in the muddy waters near mangroves. Video footage showed the baited traps being set along the Mowbray River on Sunday. Queensland environment and heritage protection wildlife director Michael Joyce said they will be targeted the entire 2.3km length of Craiglie Creek. 'The traps will be baited with a portion of a pig's carcasss, and we will also continue our attempts to do direct capture methods. 'What we're trying to do is entice the crocodile with a range of methods to maximise our chances of catching the target animal.' Mr Joyce asked people to stay away from the area while the search was ongoing. Queensland environment and heritage protection wildlife director Michael Joyce said they targeted the entire 2.3km Craiglie Creek Ten wildlife officers who are 'experts in crocodile behaviour' and 10 other environment and heritage protection assisted with the search. 'We believe she's wandered in there [a crocodile infested area] and gotten lost, it's our theory that she's become disorientated and walked through that area,' he said. The Queensland Government is facing calls for stronger crocodile management measures, including culling. The Katter's Australian Party has renewed their calls for both sides of parliament to introduce more stringent management of crocodiles through their Safer Waterways Bill, which includes culling. A pile of clothing was found next to a small creek connected to Mowbray River, believed to be less than two kilometres from Mrs Cameron's aged care facility The bill would establish an authority to oversee a crocodile cull, egg harvesting and immediate removal or euthanasia for animals considered a threat. The Queensland Government is legally allowed to kill a crocodile involved in a fatal attack, but must gain federal approval. Earlier this year, Federal Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg backed the calls for a tighter culling legislation. 'In my book human life comes first and crocodiles second,' he said, the Courier Mail reports. The Queensland Government legally allowed to kill a crocodile involved in a fatal attack, but must gain federal approval 'Such action properly considered and carried out would have my full support.' One Nation party leader Pauline Hanson told Sky News the animals are 'clearly a problem'. 'We will lose tourism, we will lose lives, animals are being taken by the crocs,' she said. Together with the Katter's Australian party, both minor parties support a cull to ensure similar accidents don't occur again. 'In north Queensland we face the risk and sometimes the ultimate price because governments are weak on this issue,' party leader Bob Katter said. A disgraced primary school teacher forced her students to write letters and draw pictures for a convicted paedophile behind bars. The female teacher was sacked from the Catholic school in central New South Wales after she phoned Wellington jail, near Dubbo, asking for permission to deliver the letters to the prisoner. The teacher and the paedophile are thought to have known each other through a local church where they were fellow parishioners before he was jailed, according to 2GB's Ray Hadley. In a shocking twist, the teacher took the matter to Fair Work claiming she had been unreasonably dismissed, before reaching a settlement with the Catholic Education Office. A disgraced primary school teacher forced her students to write letters and draw pictures for a convicted paedophile behind bars (stock image) The woman took the matter to the state's Catholic Education Commission, claiming she was unfairly dismissed, according to 2GB's Ray Hadley (pictured) Some members of the church, including the teacher, continue to support the paedophile despite being convicted over his sick crimes, Hadley understands. The NSW Catholic Education Commission confirmed the teacher has been dismissed from the Catholic school sector, though it is unclear if she is now working with children in another capacity. 'CECNSW is limited in what we can say about this matter as it involves many sensitive issues, the most important being the welfare of students in the care of one of our small, regional schools,' the commission told Daily Mail Australia in a written statement. 'Our paramount concern is always the safety and well-being of our students. As such, the teacher involved in this matter was immediately stood down and an independent investigation was launched. The female teacher was immediately sacked from the Catholic school in central New South Wales after she phoned Wellington jail, near Dubbo, asking that the letters be delivered (stock) The convicted paedophile is believed to be jailed at Wellington Correctional Centre (pictured) 'The school immediately notified all necessary authorities including the NSW Ombudsman. 'Industrially, the matter has been settled to the satisfaction of both parties and the teacher is no longer working in the Catholic school sector.' The Office of the Children's Guardian couldn't confirm if the teacher's working with children check would be cancelled. 'Due to privacy laws, the Office of the Children's Guardian does not publicly discuss individual's Working with Children check,' a spokesman told 2GB. 'Generally speaking, people issued with a Working with Children check clearance are subject to continuous monitoring for a new relevant criminal offence for the five-year life of the clearance.' A man has been treated in hospital after being stabbed with a kitchen fork during an alleged domestic violence-related incident near Shoalhaven overnight. Police from Shoalhaven Local Area Command were called to a home on Roseby Park, Orient Point, about 7.30pm on Monday and found a 46-year-old man with a stab wound to his back. A 42-year-old woman will face court on Tuesday morning on charges of reckless wounding A 42-year-old woman was arrested at the scene and a kitchen fork was seized for forensic examination. The man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Shoalhaven Hospital where he is reported to be in a stable condition. The woman has been charged with reckless wounding (DV), breach AVO, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. She was refused bail to appear in Nowra Local Court on Tuesday morning. Malcolm Turnbull has dumped clean energy subsidies in a bid to cut soaring electricity prices - but consumers will have to wait until 2020 for their bills to fall by $110 a year. The prime minister and his cabinet decided late on Monday night to phase out Clean Energy Target subsidies for solar and wind renewable energy in three years' time. 'What we have today is a game changer,' Mr Turnbull told reporters on Tuesday. The Liberal Party room in Canberra has agreed to the plan, which the government says will see annual electricity prices fall by $110 to $115 a year between 2020 and 2030. Green energy subsidies for solar and wind will be unpacked from 2020 to reduce power bills Under the plan, energy companies will be required to guarantee the reliability of their supplies as they meet emissions reductions targets. Former prime minister Tony Abbott, who recently described global warming as beneficial to a London audience, hailed the severing of green subsidies. 'Progress at today's party room. The Clean Energy Target has been definitively dropped,' he tweeted. However, Greens MP Adam Bandt, who speaks for the minor left-wing party on climate change and energy, likened Liberal MPs to politically-motivated murderers. The Liberal Party room in Canberra has agreed to replace the Clean Energy Target from 2020, which would affect this Bungendore wind farm a short drive outside Canberra Former Liberal prime minister Tony Abbott hailed the scrapping of the clean energy subsidies The Greens' climate change spokesman Adam Bandt likened Liberal MPs to 'climate terrorists' 'Malcolm Turnbull has capitulated to the climate terrorists,' he tweeted in response. The federal government's new Energy Security Board recommended a new National Energy Guarantee be brought in to replace Clean Energy Target subsidies. It insists the phasing out of green subsidies would not hinder Australia's international commitments to reducing carbon emissions, including the 2015 Paris Agreement on tackling climate change. The Turnbull Government's approach is a repudiation of Labor's policy of a 20 per cent renewable energy target by 2020, which it introduced in 2009. However, the change will not require new legislation. Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg (left) and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull (right) announced the end of green energy subsidies Malcolm Turnbull will scrap solar and wind subsidies from 2020 if he is still prime minister It means the government will be technology neutral from 2020, offering no subsidies or taxes to promote renewable energy over coal or gas power. Mr Turnbull and Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg released a joint statement on Tuesday which said the scrapping of renewable energy subsidies would provide certainty to investors and therefore encourage investment. 'This is a national energy guarantee that will ensure that we have affordable power, that it is reliable, keep the lights on and we can afford to keep them on,' the prime minister said. The decision comes a day after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission released a report which said electricity prices had risen by 63 per cent since 2007. However green subsidies made up just seven per cent of overall electricity bills, with an over investment in new poles and wires by power companies by far the biggest factor in rising costs. Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency in advance of a speech white nationalist Richard Spencer is scheduled to give at the University of Florida. In an executive order issued Monday, Scott warned that a 'threat of a potential emergency is imminent' in Alachua County, in north Florida. Spencer is slated to speak at the campus on Thursday. Spencer participated in a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, that led to deadly violence in August. He and his supporters continuously chanted: 'You will not replace us' and 'Jews will not replace us'. Scott's executive order will allow local law-enforcement authorities to partner with state and other law-enforcement agencies to provide security for the event. The university has already said it expects to spend $500,000 on security. Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency in advance of a speech that white nationalist Richard Spencer (pictured, November 2016) is scheduled to give at the University of Florida on Thursday Scott's (pictured, September 2017) executive order will allow local law-enforcement authorities to partner with state and other law-enforcement agencies to provide security for the event The governor is also activating the Florida National Guard to help with security if it is needed. Scott said he declared the emergency after discussing Spencer's speech with Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell. 'We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion. However, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority,' Scott said in a statement. 'This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe.' Spencer said the emergency declaration was 'flattering' but 'most likely overkill'. 'I'm not a hurricane or an invading army, at least not literally,' he said during a telephone interview Monday. The University of Florida (pictured) has already said it expects to spend $500,000 on security However, Spencer expressed concern that the emergency declaration could be used as a pretext for blocking his speech. He noted that Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe had declared a state of emergency on the day of the Charlottesville rally before Spencer and others could speak. 'That was basically a means for suppressing the rally,' Spencer claimed. When he issued the declaration, McAuliffe had said via his Twitter account that he did it in order 'to aid state response to violence' at the Charlottesville rally. University of Florida officials said it was the violence in Virginia that led them to reject a request from Spencer and his National Policy Institute, a white nationalist think tank, to allow him to speak in September. After they threatened to sue, school officials said they would try to accommodate Spencer if he renewed his request for a different date. University of Florida President Kent Fuchs earlier this month asked students to stay away from the campus event. He wrote in an email that Spencer and his group seek only 'to provoke a reaction'. Spencer participated in a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia (pictured, in blue shirt and sunglasses clashing with police), that led to deadly violence in August Spencer (pictured, August 2017) said the emergency declaration was 'flattering' but 'most likely overkill'. 'I'm not a hurricane or an invading army, at least not literally,' he said during a telephone interview Monday 'We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority,' Scott (pictured, May 2017) said in a statement Sheriff Darnell said Scott's executive order was not intended to 'alarm anyone,' but to make sure that her office has the 'resources and equipment to help us prepare for violence or widespread property damage.' Darnell said currently they are expecting both protesters and counter-protesters to show up in connection to Spencer's appearance. 'We are hoping this is a non-event,' she said. 'We are hoping this will go very smoothly and peacefully. But in the reality of this world we have to be well prepared.' A Beatrice manufacturer was one of two companies recognized at the state level by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Exmark was named the Large Manufacturer of the Year, an award presented earlier this month. It is obviously a big honor to be selected by the state chamber for this award, said Exmark general manager Judy Altmaier. It was unexpected. This was not something you fill out an application for and self promote. It was particularly nice to be honored this month, with October being manufacturing month, officially declared by Gov. Ricketts. The award was presented during the annual Manufacturing and Distribution Executive Summit held at CenturyLink Center Omaha on Oct. 12. Garner Industries of Lincoln was also recognized as the mid-size manufacturer of the year. Exmark,which makes commercial lawn mowers and other turf care equipment, has more than 500 employees at its manufacturing facility in Beatrice. Altmaier said the companys commitment to quality, and also the community were characteristics that help the company stand out at the state level. We really are very proud of our products and the people that are involved in the manufacture, and also the design, marketing, selling and all the aspects that go into creating and presenting a product to the end user, she said. It really is all about the people, ingenuity and the passion about a product. Another thing that stands out is our dedication to the communities that we live and work in. were very strong volunteersI think our name very well known for things we do, not just by employment but by the community service we provide. The state chamber has presented the awards annually since 2008 to Nebraska manufacturers that successfully implement innovative ways of conducting business through the use of new products, processes, technologies and strategies. We take great pride in honoring Exmark Manufacturing and Garner Industries with this award, Barry Kennedy, president of the Nebraska Chamber, said in a news release. Manufacturing is our states second-largest industry and a key to Nebraskas economic growth. Both of these companies are innovation leaders in Nebraskas manufacturing sector. Kylie Morrison, 31, of Longmont, Colorado, was arrested for trying to shoot a squirrel with a pellet gun A woman who tried to shoot a pellet gun at a squirrel in Colorado was arrested on Friday. Kylie Morrison, 31, of Longmont, Colorado, had grown more and more agitated by the time police arrived at the 800 block of Coffman Street near Roosevelt Park. Morrison was upset that a person was feeding the mammal when she pulled the piece out of her purse. The woman tried to shoot the squirrel but when she pulled the trigger, there was only a clicking sound. She was taken into custody by law enforcement who determined that she didn't have a real weapon. Morrison was upset that a person was feeding the mammal (stock) at the 800 block of Coffman Street near Roosevelt Park when she pulled the piece out of her purse Morrison was arrested on disorderly conduct and will have to appear in court for the charge. In 2013, Morrison had another run in with the law when she was suspected of being high on meth while fleeing police Basically, she was just shooting air at the squirrel, police said to Fox 31. She was booked and released. In 2013, Morrison had another run in with the law when she was suspected of being high on meth while fleeing police. The at the time 26-year-old was arrested on suspicion of felony vehicular eluding, misdemeanor obstruction of a police officer, driving under the influence, and multiple traffic violations. When policed arrived on the scene to arrest the man she had been arguing with, Morrison jumped into his vehicle and sped off. The man struggled with police but was shot with a taser. Stop sticks were used to flatten the tires and stop Morrison in the van that she had drove off in. A four-year-old Australian girl with an inoperable brain tumour flies to Mexico every six weeks to receive potentially life-saving treatment. But the family of Annabelle Potts is running out of money for the therapy, and have told 9NEWS that they will only be able to return for one more treatment. 'This is what happens to families affected by underfunded paediatric cancer. We need to be separated for long periods at a time,' wrote mother Kathie Potts, as Annabelle's father Adam took her overseas for the fifth time. Parents Kathie and Adam have never given up trying to find a way save their daughter's life Annabelle Potts, 4, regularly flies to Mexico with one of her parents for life-saving treatment 'If there was a treatment available in Australia, we could all head up to Sydney Children's Hospital for a day or two and be together as a family,' she continued on the Love for Annabelle Facebook page. In a ideal world, it would also be subsidised by Medicare or our private health insurance, so we wouldn't need to pay $33,000 per treatment.' The financial burden is such that only one parent can go with Annabelle each time, and Ms Potts says that watching her daughter leave each time 'splits her heart in two'. Annabelle needs at least another six treatments, but the family can only afford one more, so they have turned to GoFundMe in a bid to raise the money. Ms Griffiths says that they have no other choice, as Australian doctors cannot help her. In Mexico however, there has been great success with the treatment, with one child eventually being completely rid of the disease. The youngster was diagnosed with the very aggressive Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma cancer Annabelle (left) with her brother William has been receiving life-saving treatment in Mexico Ms Potts also shared the heartbreaking story of another girl being treated in the same Mexican hospital as Annabelle, whose family were forced to return home and stop treatment because they ran out of money. 'She was improving in Mexico but this type of tumour comes back so quickly, so aggressively, and when she got home she died,' the distraught mother said, adding that she was 'absolutely gutted' by the news'. 'We are incredibly lucky to be supported but we do need more help,' Ms Potts said, who is 'eternally grateful' for the $257,000 that has been raised so far. 'We hate asking, but it's our daughter's life.' Annabelle was only nine months old was she was diagnosed with the highly aggressive Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma cancer, which could kill her in just six months. Her parents Kathie and Adam Griffiths, from Canberra, got her accepted into a British clinical trial of Convection Enhanced Delivery. But doctors discovered the location of her tumour made the trail too dangerous - so the family turned to experimental treatment in Mexico. The doctors discovered the location of Annabelle's tumour made the UK trail too dangerous 'Annabelle has now had her first treatment in Mexico. She is very tired, very sore and very thirsty,' Ms Griffiths posted on Annabelle's GoFundMe page in June. 'Thank you all so much for helping Annabelle get to Mexico, we have come a long way but still have a long way to go!' 'There is another Australian family here, five from the UK and Europe and about 15 from America. (Annabelle) is scared being back in hospital but there is a great community here of other kids with the same condition,' Ms Potts told Nine News. 'Annabelle has made friends with another little girl and they have been able to talk about their ''little bumps in their heads'' and trade war stories. 'It's really cute to see her smiling and having fun.' 'They said at this point they only talk in months. And the average is nine,' the mum-of-two said Ms Potts: 'If there was a treatment available in Australia...we could all be together as a family' 'Kathie and Adam's main focus now is to buy as much time as possible for Annabelle while we all pray for a miracle,' the GoFundMe page reads. The Sydney-based doctors who diagnosed the youngster in December last year deemed it inoperable and gave her nine months to live. 'I was absolutely gutted. I was in shock for about two weeks,' said Ms Griffiths. 'I couldn't eat, couldn't sleep, couldn't do anything. All I had, and all I still have, is hope.' Potts family is now clinging to the hope now that the trial in Mexico will extend their daughter's life and the kindness of strangers will be enough to help them fund it. The Sydney-based doctors who diagnosed Annabelle in December 2016 deemed it inoperable 'There is nothing they can do here except put her on steroids and that is just to prolong her life,' she told 9NEWS. 'It would give her terrible symptoms and quality of life.' Ms Potts said having their family torn apart every six weeks so Annabelle can go for treatment is 'heartbreaking', and that if they could afford it, they would move straight back to Mexico if necessary. 'You want to be able to spend as much time as possible with her, even being away from her for a week is too long,' she said. Screenwriter Scott Rosenberg claims that everyone knew about about Harvey Weinstein - despite many in Hollywood claiming not to have known about his history of sexual harassment when the scandal first broke. Rosenberg, who worked for Weinstein at Miramax Films during what he described as the 'Golden Age', penned a lengthy Facebook post on Monday weighing in on the Weinstein drama. 'Let's be perfectly clear about one thing: Everybody-f***ing-knew,' Rosenberg wrote in the post, which appears to have now been taken down. The Beautiful Girls writer clarified that while the allegations of rape had come as a shock, most were aware of a 'pattern of overly aggressive behavior that was rather dreadful'. Screenwriter Scott Rosenberg (pictured in 2010) claims that everyone knew about about Harvey Weinstein - despite many in Hollywood claiming not to have known about his history of sexual harassment when the scandal first broke 'We knew about the man's hunger; his fervor; his appetite. There was nothing secret about this voracious rapacity; like a gluttonous ogre out of the Brothers Grimm. All couched in vague promises of potential movie roles. (And, it should be noted: there were many who actually succumbed to his bulky charms. Willingly. Which surely must have only impelled him to cast his fetid net even wider),' he wrote. 'But like I said: everybody-f***ing-knew.' Rosenberg noted that the Weinstein brothers gave him his career by making his first two movies - Beautiful Girls in 1996 and Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead in 1995. 'Do you know how I am sure this is true? Because I was there. And I saw you. And I talked about it with you. You, the big producers; you, the big directors; you, the big agents; you, the big financiers,' he said. 'And you, the big rival studio chiefs; you, the big actors; you, the big actresses; you, the big models. You, the big journalists; you, the big screenwriters; you, the big rock stars; you, the big restaurateurs; you, the big politicians. The Beautiful Girls writer clarified that while the allegations of rape had come as a shock, most were aware of Weinstein's 'pattern of overly aggressive behavior that was rather dreadful' 'I saw you. All of you.God help me, I was there with you. 'Again, maybe we didnt know the degree. The magnitude of the awfulness. Not the rapes. Not the shoving against the wall. Not the potted-plant fucking. But we knew something. We knew something was bubbling under. Something odious. Something rotten.' Rosenberg admitted to staying quiet while Weinstein continued to throw lavish parties and make everyone's movies. 'And for that, I am eternally sorry. To all of the women that had to suffer this I am eternally sorry,' he said. 'Ive worked with Mira (Sorvino) and Rosanna (Arquette) and Lysette (Anthony). Ive known Rose (McGowan) and Ashley (Judd) and Claire (Forlani) for years Their courage only hangs a lantern on my shame. And I am eternally sorry to all those who suffered in silence all this time. And have chosen to remain silent today.' The immigration population in the United States jumped to a record 43million people in 2016, according to a new report. And when adding in the children of those individuals, the number jumps to over 60million people. That means that legal and illegal immigrants account for at least one in every people in the United States, according to a review of federal statistics by the Center for Immigration Studies. The number of immigrants has skyrocketed in the past 16 years, the study concluded. The immigration population in the United States jumped to over 43million people in 2016, according to a new report. And when calculating in the children those individuals had - that brings the number to over 60million people 'The enormous number of immigrants already in the country coupled with the settlement of well over a million newcomers each year has a profound impact on American society, including on workers, schools, infrastructure, hospitals and the environment,' the Center's director of research Steven Camarota said. 'The nation needs a serious debate about whether continuing this level of immigraiton namkes sense.' This rhetoric and the concerns about an explosion of immigration - especially illegal immigration - helped Donald Trump win the 2016 presidential election. His administration has promised to crack down on illegal immigration and refugees, and has shown particular interest in halting people coming from Central and South America. The report doesn't specifically go into the percentages of legal and illegal immigrants. However, according to the Washington Examiner, there are roughly 12million undocumented immigrants in the United States. The report did find though that since 2000 the immigrant population has increased by 8million people, and that a large portion of that number came from Mexico and Latin America. Mexican immigrants, specifically, were found to be the largest foreign-born population in the country in 2016 The states with the largest increases in immigration were Texas, Florida and California The report did find though that since 2000 the immigrant population has increased by 8million people, and that a large portion of that number came from Mexico and Latin America. Mexican immigrants, specifically, were found to be the largest foreign-born population in the country in 2016. Between 2010 and 2016 1.1million new immigrants arrived in the United States from Mexico. However, because of the rate of return migration and mortality the Mexican-born population did not grow during that period. The report also found that currently the proportion of immigrants living in the United states is the highest it has been in 106 years. As recently as 1980 there were 50 percent fewer immigrants. Finally, the states with the largest increases in immigration were Texas, Florida and California. Australian professors are on the brink of developing a vaccine for asthma, which could see sufferers do away with the puffer all together. Professor Wayne Thomas, from the Telethon Institute in Perth, has been working with microscopic dust mites for over 30 years. His world leading research has found that dust mites digestive enzymes are a major cause of asthma attacks among sufferers. Scroll down for video Australian professors are on the brink of developing a vaccine for asthma, which could see away with the puffer all together (Asthma sufferer Jet O'Sullivan pictured) Professor Wayne Thomas (pictured), from the Telethon Institute in Perth, has been working with microscopic dust mites for over 30 years 'We were the first in the world to use genetic engineering to look at allergens,' Professor Thomas told 7 News. 'With this new knowledge there will be no need for the use of puffers.' With funding from the Telethon Institute, the findings mean experts are one step closer to developing a vaccine against the disease. Professor Pat Holt from the Telethon Institute said: 'In the future it will lead to a vaccine that will be able to prevent the attack of the disease in the first place.' Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children. Veronica Green Posey, 64, was arrested and charged with cruelty toward a child and homicide for the death of Dericka Lindsay, 9, from Pensacola, Florida. Posey supposedly told law enforcement that she sat on the small girl 'for being out of control' A nine-year-old girl died after a woman weighing 325lbs sat on her as punishment. Veronica Green Posey, 64, was arrested and charged with cruelty toward a child and homicide for the death of Dericka Lindsay from Pensacola, Florida on Saturday. Paramedics responded to a cardiac arrest call on at 1.35 pm where they found the young girl unresponsive. Dericka was transported to Baptist Hospital but she was pronounced dead a short time later. Posey supposedly told law enforcement that she sat on the small girl 'for being out of control.' Police report state that Dericka informed adults that she couldn't breathe and when Posey stood up, she tried to do CPR on the lifeless body and called 911. Other family members Grace Joan Smith, 69, and James Edmund Smith, 62, were charged with child neglect for failing to act on the abuse. Grace was also charged with cruelty toward a child. Grace Joan Smith, 69, (left) and James Edmund Smith, 62, (right) were charged with child neglect for failing to act on the abuse. Grace was also charged with cruelty toward a child In the report, the Smiths were listed as Dericka's parents while Posey was listed as their niece. Poset was allegedly called by Grace Smith to discipline the girl. Smith told police that Posey struck Dericka with a ruler and metal pipe before the girl was able to run to an armchair. In James Smith's arrest report, Posey was then said to have sat on the girl for close to 10 minutes before Dericka voiced that she could not breathe. He would tell the deputy that the woman sat on Dericka for two more minutes and found the child unresponsive when she stood up. In James Smith's arrest report, Posey was then said to have sat on the girl for close to 10 minutes before Dericka voiced that she could not breathe. He would tell the deputy that the woman sat on Dericka for two more minutes and found the child unresponsive when she stood up The family has had history with the child welfare system, according to Mike Carroll, secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families. In a statement emailed to the News Journal, he said: 'Dericka's death is appalling and DCF will continue coordinating with the Escambia County Sheriff's Office to hold anyone responsible for her death accountable.' 'As the family has a prior interaction with the child welfare system, a thorough quality assurance review will be conducted to review all prior interactions this family has had with the child welfare system.' Posey was released after her bond was set at $125,000. Grace has a bond of $75,000 and James $50,000. They both are still at the Escambia County jail. Initial investigation revealed hundreds of 'mostly positive' responses to the idea Bill calls for pub owner's to decide if they want to allow dogs into their premises Current legislation says that animals cannot be in areas where food is handled Greens MP pushing for dogs to be allowed into pub at the publican's discretion The Greens are set to move a bill into the parliament that will allow dogs to go into pubs with their owners at the discretion of the publican. MP Jamie Parker wants to amend the 'restrictive laws' NSW Companion Animals Act, as they have in the UK and parts of Europe. 'We believe that there's a strong argument for changing these restrictive laws to allow pub proprietors to have the right to welcome dogs into their establishments,' Mr Parker told the Daily Telegraph. Greens MP Jamie Parker (right) wants to amend the 'restrictive laws' and introduce legislation so that dogs will be able to go into pubs with their owners if the publican chooses to allow it As it stands, the 2003 Food Act prohibits businesses from allowing 'live animals in areas in which food is handled' - although assistance animals and some outdoor areas are exceptions. People found with dogs inside public places can be fined up to $880 for each offence. An investigation into the issue received 'hundreds of responses, the vast majority of which were in favour' of publicans deciding if they want to allow dogs inside. 'Pub owners should be able to decide for themselves whether allowing dogs in is right for their establishment and their customers,' Mr Parker said in a statement. 'Some businesses may have a 'no pets' policy; others may welcome well-behaved dogs in public areas. 'We don't need government legislation on this, especially when dogs are already allowed into outdoor areas at the proprietors' discretion.' Mr Parker said businesses should decide for themselves if they want to have a no-pets policy Anna Kessler, who manages The Erko pub, says allowing dogs inside will 'add to the business' General manager of The Erko in Erskineville, Anne Kessler, is 'absolutely in favour' of changing the legislation around pets indoors. 'It would be something we would embrace and we believe that it would add to the business,' she said. Mr Parker will address state parliament to move a motion to amend this legislation in the coming months. A television journalist is making a startling claim about an A-list actor assaulting one of the journalist's loved ones. The Oscar-winning actor, who cannot be publicly named because the allegations have not been reported by authorities or otherwise confirmed, is being accused by the journalist of assaulting a loved-one who she has not publicly revealed. In referring to Weinstein, who has been accused of sexual assault or rape by dozens of women, the female broadcaster said on social media it was 'time the dominoes fell'. Of the actor, an insider told The Sun: 'Rumors about this actor have circulated for years. 'Lots of people are making allegations after what's happened with Weinstein. 'But no alleged victim of this particular man has spoken publicly as yet.' The broadcaster also said she is trying to encourage an investigation into the A-list actor, similar to what's occurring now with Weinstein. Scroll down for video A television journalist is making a startling claim about an A-list actor assaulting one of the journalist's loved ones. The Oscar-winning actor cannot be publicly named because the allegations have not been reported by authorities or otherwise confirmed In referring to Weinstein (above on October 4), who has been accused of sexual assault or rape by dozens of women, the female broadcaster said on social media it was 'time the dominoes fell' The Weinstein Co. fired the movie mogul on October 8 days after he was accused of sexually harassing women for decades in a report by The New York Times. Subsequent stories by the Times and The New Yorker included allegations of abuse, and more than three dozen women have publicly accused the disgraced mogul of abuse. On Monday, the Producers Guild of America voted unanimously to institute termination proceedings for Weinstein on disciplinary grounds. The PGA's National Board of Directors and Officers said that Weinstein has an opportunity to respond before a final decision is made on November 6. The decision to move forward with the expulsion process was decided on by a group comprised of 20 women and 18 men. It comes just two days after the 65-year-old Oscar winner had his membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revoked. In addition, the New York Police Department is now probing two separate allegations of sexual assault involving disgraced movie mogul . A senior law enforcement official told NBC News that these complaints were filed in the past week with NYPD officials, who previously investigated the Hollywood executive in 2015 following allegations that he groped Italian model Ambra Battilana. The incidents both occurred over 10 years ago and have been deemed credible by the department according to the senior official, who also noted that this does not mean either of these allegations will result in criminal charges being filed against Weinstein. A law enforcement source told DailyMail.com that one of these complaints was filed by Lucia Evans, who told The New Yorker that Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him in 2004 at his office. The identity of the other individual is not known at this time. There is no statute of limitations on rape, criminal sexual act or aggravated sexual abuse in the first degree in the state of New York. The state legislature signed a bill eliminating a statute of limitations for first-degree sexual offenses back in 2006, having previously had a five-year statute for all rape and sexual assault cases. Weinstein's legal problems are not just stateside either, with Scotland Yard currently investigating five allegations of sexual assault which have been made by three women across the Atlantic. The earliest of these alleged assaults dates back to the eighties. There is still no timeline for how long it might take to gather all the necessary evidence to possibly charge Weinstein with a crime. 'The NYPD is conducting a review to determine if there are any additional complaints relating to the Harvey Weinstein matter,' a spokesperson said in a statement to DailyMail.com. After a day of drinking and taking party drug GHB, a 23-year-old New Zealand woman fired a gun at one of her oldest friends, killing him. Tiffani Jade Sutcliffe was in a bedroom with her flatmate Rhys Gordon Williamson, 40, and two others, with the intention of having group sex, when she pointed the gun at him and asked if it was loaded. The shot fired almost immediately after, hitting the side of his chest and causing him to slump to the floor, Stuff reported. Before giving in to the fatal shot, fired on May 31, he managed to utter his last words: 'Of course it's loaded, you stupid s***'. Tiffani Jade Sutcliffe, 23, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to manslaughter, after a day of drinking and drug taking with her girlfriend took a turn for the worse and ended in the death of her flatmate Anthony Brett Clegg, 40, (pictured), who had recently been released from prison, arrived at the flat Sutcliffe shared with Rhys Gordon Williamson and called an unknown associate to get a shotgun and shells On Tuesday, Sutcliffe pleaded guilty to a charge of manslaughter by reckless discharge of a firearm, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Before the untimely death of the man she had known from the age of nine, Sutcliffe and her girlfriend had spent the day drinking bourbon and coke. Williamson arrived home from work at their flat on Sesson Road in Hamiliton and joined them. His friend Anthony Brett Clegg - who had recently been released from prison, also joined the group. After taking the party drug GHB, Clegg, Sutcliffe and her girlfriend retired to the bedroom with the intent of having sex. Earlier, Clegg had asked an unknown associate to bring over a sawn off shotgun and a box of shells. Williamson walked into the room holding the gun, and pointed it at Sutcliffe in a way she described as 'playing around', before she took it off him and ended his life. Sutcliffe has been taken into custody, and will be sentenced at the High Court in Hamilton on November 23. Clegg has already been sentenced to two years prison for his part in the death. An Australian man who is facing charges of drug importation and possession in Bali may avoid a trial after it was revealed he has received treatment for 'mental disturbance'. Joshua James Baker faces 15 years behind bars after being named a suspect for allegedly bringing marijuana and prescription drugs into the Indonesian country. But his lawyer Maya Arsanti has said the 32-year-old's mental health issues mean the case could not continue and he should be deported to Australia, the ABC reports. Scroll down for video Australian Joshua James Baker (pictured) is facing charges of drug importation and possession in Bali, but may avoid a trial after it was revealed he has received treatment for 'mental disturbance' A medical note from Denpasar psychiatrist Denny Thong reportedly shows Mr Baker was treated four times over the last two years and that the Australian 'required sedatives'. 'In Indonesian law, people who are mentally ill cannot proceed in the justice (system),' Ms Arsanti said. Mr Baker was apprehended by police at Ngurah Rai airport on October 8 with an alleged 28 grams of marijuana and 37 pills of diazepam, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. Charges of drug importation carry a maximum sentence of 15 years, while charges of drug possession bring a maximum jail term of 12 years. Mr Baker (pictured) is facing up to fifteen years behind bars in an Indonesian jail after being named a suspect for allegedly bringing marijuana and prescription drugs into the country Ms Arsanti said it was difficult to talk with her client due to his medical needs, telling Fairfax he 'can't be held accountable for his actions'. 'He hallucinates and has other abnormal behaviours,' Ms Arsanti said. Following his arrest, Bali police spokesman Hengky Widjaja said Mr Baker had been named as a suspect and at the time remained under doctor's observation. In Indonesia's justice system naming someone a suspect means authorities believe they have enough evidence for charges to be filed. Two days after he was arrested, Mr Baker evaded Balinese police for 10 hours by allegedly escaping from a toilet window at a hospital as officers guarding him watched television. He was finally re-apprehended by police in a hotel precinct almost 2 and a half hours away. Ms Arsanti said it was difficult to talk with her client, Mr Baker, due to his medical needs and told Fairfax he 'can't be held accountable for his actions' Mr Baker was stopped by customs in Bali as he entered the country and reportedly told police he took the drugs from Australia, believing he is not guilty because it is legal to use marijuana in Australia. Ngurah Rai Customs and Excise chief Budi Harjanto said officers became suspicious of Mr Baker after his luggage was scanned. Customs officers stated that Mr Baker had said the drugs had been brought for individual use. Police conducted tests on the Diazepam found, which Mr Baker reportedly said he used to treat his depression. Police claim 28 grams of marijuana was found in Mr Baker's bag when he arrived from Thailand Homestead National Monument of America will host artist, Todd Williams for a presentation and book signing at the Homestead Education Center on Sunday, Nov. 5, at 2 p.m. In honor of Nebraskas Sesquicentennial year, Williams will give a presentation about his journey to paint one or more Masterful Paintings of each county in Nebraska. Starting Oct.r 27, 2017, through Jan. 7, 2018, 26 of the Todd Williams paintings will be on display at the Homestead Education center. The paintings in this exhibit will highlight the counties from southeast Nebraska. This exhibit is made possible through the support of the Friends of Homestead who are sponsoring the showing of this exhibition at Homestead. Todds vision is to give recognition and awareness to the State of Nebraska and bring its beauty and history to life on canvas. Photos of his collection of paintings titled Legacy of Nebraska have been compiled into a book that helps share Todds vision. The book can be purchased through Homesteads bookstore. They will be available after the Nov. 5 program for signing books. Everyone is welcome to attend this community event. Admission is free. We are excited to host Williams at the monument. We look forward to joining him in celebration of the State of Nebraskas Sesquicentennial, stated Superintendent Mark Engler. We hope the citizens of Nebraska and beyond know they are invited to learn more about our state through Todd Williamss work. A man claiming to be a British ex-army mercenary fighting ISIS militants in Kurdish areas of Syria has boasted he has personally killed 26 times but it is 'not enough yet'. The hired gun is said to have been fighting for the Kurds for four years, but was also jailed for doing so on trips back to the UK. 'I simply love killing, and it doesn't matter who my enemy is: ISIS, Assad or Barzani (the leader of Iraqi Kurdistan),' he said, according to a Russian report. 'Give me a gun, and I'll fight.' A British ex-army mercenary (pictured) fighting ISIS militants in Kurdish areas of Syria has boasted he has personally killed 26 times but it is 'not enough yet' The hired gun was pictured but not identified by Russian media which reported he had been fighting for the Kurds for four years, but was also jailed for doing so on trips back to the UK The report, on the website outlet lenta.ru, stated: 'When asked about number of militants he had killed, he calmly replies: "26". And after a short pause he adds: "Not enough yet".' The British man was pictured at a camp an hour's drive from the capital of Iraq's Kurdistan region, named after Rustem Cudi - a German national, real name Gunther Helsten, who joined Kurdish militias in Syria and was killed while fighting ISIS. But he is leaving this base near Makhmur soon for Rojava in northern Syria to fight ISIS here for the third time, he told Russian journalists. He had 'happened to kill Russians', he admitted, but also fought along side them, and they were 'very good on the battlefield'. 'I went to fight for the Kurds for the first time in 2013,' he said. 'There was no sign of the caliphate back then.' Before that, he claimed, he served in the British army and was recruited as a mercenary by former comrades, sharpening his knife as he spoke. 'It turned out that the British mercenary had been through a serious experience -- his military unit had been surrounded, and he was among a few who survived,' reported Lenta.ru. The British mercenary was pictured at a camp an hour's drive from the capital of Iraq's Kurdistan region, named after Rustem Cudi - a German national, real name Gunther Helsten, who joined Kurdish militias in Syria and was killed while fighting ISIS 'The death of his peers only made him more bloodthirsty' but there was 'no personal hatred involved.' He was quoted as saying: 'I know that Russia is supporting Assad and the Shias. Many interests came together here. 'In such a situation, it is very hard to understand what's good and what's bad. And my thing is to fight, not to understand what's happening.' There are 'certain cycles' to his life - 'a trip to Syria, war, return home, a term in jail. And all over again,' said the Russian report. 'The Kurdistan Party and its Syrian branches are considered terrorist organisations in Britain, so the British mercenary regularly does a jail term. 'He'd be happy not to go home but he simply has no other opportunity to see his parents.' At the camp were Turkish Kurds from the Kurdistan Workers' Party or PKK along with mercenaries who came to fight ISIS The journalist who interviewed him, Sergei Malyzhenkov said he interviewed the British mercenary, in his 30s, in Iraq at the 'beginning of autumn' this year. 'This is not made up,' he insisted. 'I personally spoke to this British man at the camp.' He was convinced his mercenary's story was genuine. Malyzhenkov declined to give more details to identify the mercenary but said: 'I often travel to the Middle East for work. 'People in this situation hide their real identities a lot, and it's not always allowed to photograph them.' He added: 'In the evening, after dinner, this Brit continued sitting at a shared table and doodling in a notebook, singing to Metallica's song For Whom the Bell Tolls playing in his headphones. 'Among his drawings, I saw an image of a samurai or 'God of Death', as the Brit called him.' At the camp were Turkish Kurds from the Kurdistan Workers' Party or PKK along with mercenaries who came to fight ISIS. But one Kurd criticised the British mercenary. 'We want to change people, not to kill them,' he said. 'If all the terrorists are shot dead, others will substitute them. It is not right to come here just because of desire to kill.' The search for missing flight MH370 may resume after three private companies offer to take up the mission abandoned by the governments of Australia, Malaysia and China in January this year. A Dutch, a U.S. and a Malaysian company have all submitted separate proposals to resume the search, but no decision has been reached on whether to take them up it, a Malaysian minister said Tuesday. The Malaysian Airlines Boeing 777 disappeared enroute to Beijing on March 8 2014, and the fate of its 227 passengers and 12 crew still a mystery Back on it: A man walks past a mural of missing Malaysia Airlines MH370 plane in Shah Alam, Malaysia as it is reported that the abandoned search may be resumed The three companies are US seabed exploration firm Ocean Infinity, Dutch company Fugro - which was involved in the original hunt - and an unnamed Malaysian company, Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai told AFP. 'There are three search companies coming up with their proposals to continue the search, so we are looking into their proposals,' Liow said. 'This is only at the proposal stage... there is no timeframe.' He said the head of Malaysia's Department of Civil Aviation was negotiating with the companies and the offers would also be discussed with Australia and China. The majority of passengers on the flight were Chinese and Beijing was also involved in the search effort. Small hope: Debris from the jet has washed up on remote islands close to Africa in the Indian Ocean, including a two-metre wing part known as a flaperon His comments came after Australian media reported that the Malaysian government was poised to announce soon that it was accepting one of the offers and the search would resume. The U.S. company Ocean Infinity, which has made a 'no find, no fee' offer, was said to be the favourite. The Malaysia Airlines plane with 239 people on board disappeared in March 2014 en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, sparking a massive underwater search in the remote southern Indian Ocean. No sign of the aircraft was found in a 120,000 square kilometre (46,000 square mile) zone based on satellite analysis of the jet's likely trajectory after it diverted from its flight path. The Australian-led hunt was suspended in January, sparking criticism from families of those on board and some experts that it was called off too soon. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau said this month in its final report into the disappearance that it was 'inconceivable' for a large commercial aircraft to vanish in the modern era, but they now had a better understanding of where it might be. Only three fragments of MH370 have been found on western Indian Ocean shores, including a two-metre wing part known as a flaperon. A grandmother has been charged with attempted murder after she allegedly repeatedly slashed her four-month-old grandson in the face with a meat cleaver, leaving him fighting for his life. The 64-year-old woman from The Gap in Brisbane's inner-west, will face Brisbane Magistrate's Court on Wednesday. The boy's mother was visiting a home on Ridgeway Street in The Gap when she woke to the sound of her child crying shortly after 6am on Tuesday. A large meat cleaver (pictured) was photographed by the police before it was taken in as evidence The four-month-old baby remains in a serious condition at the Lady Cilento Hospital, where he is undergoing surgery for his injuries. Police photographed a meat cleaver on Tuesday afternoon before submitting it as evidence. Inspector Daniel Bragg said the boy's mother discovered her son in a 'distressed state' with severe injuries to his face. The boy's grandmother was found nearby, as was a knife allegedly used in the attack. '(The mother's) clearly distraught over what's occurred. She's provided police with all the assistance she could,' Inspector Bragg said. Inspector Bragg said both the ambulance and police officers were 'visibly distressed' by the scene Police outside the Brisbane home where a four-month-old baby was found with serious cuts to his face on Tuesday When emergency services were called to the scene, the child was carried into an ambulance before being rushed to hospital. 'This is the worst case scenario. We deal in trauma, we're used to trauma. But probably the most affecting job you can go to is one involving a child,' Inspector Bragg told The Courier Mail. 'The ambulance officers who attended were visibly distressed by what they were dealing with... the police officer who was first on the scene was visibly affected by what he saw.' The attack is being treated as a 'domestic' incident, Queensland Police said. Police continue to investigate an alleged domestic violence incident in Brisbane, where a child was stabbed in the face Airbus has acquired a majority stake in Bombardier's C Series aircraft programme in a deal that could allow the plane manufacturer to sidestep US tariffs and potentially save British jobs. Bombardier employs more than 4,000 people at its Belfast factories but their future was thrown into doubt after the US Department of Commerce announced it would impose an interim tariff of nearly 220% on the jets. Airbus has now obtained a 50.01% stake in the C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership in a move many in the UK hope will prove a breakthrough. Business Secretary Greg Clark hailed the move as a 'positive step forward' DUP leader Arlene Foster said it was 'significant news'. It is hoped a new deal with Airbus could help troubled firm Bombardier sidestep US tariffs Production of the aircraft will be extended to the US state of Alabama, which bosses from European firm Airbus and Canada's Bombardier believe will mean it avoids import tariffs. Airbus chief executive Tom Enders said planes built in the US would not be subject to duties under the US investigation. Mr Enders said: 'Not only will this partnership secure the C Series and its industrial operations in Canada, the UK and China, but we also bring new jobs to the US.' Speaking about the Airbus-Bombardier deal, Business Secretary Mr Clark said: 'Since Boeing initiated action against Bombardier, we have been active alongside our Canadian counterparts to work to secure the future of the C Series and safeguard jobs and manufacturing at Bombardier Shorts in Belfast, and the supply chain across the UK. 'We will continue to work closely with the companies to protect UK interests and with the Canadian government to ensure the unjustified case brought by Boeing is brought to a swift resolution. 'There is some way to go before the deal is completed and our number one priority throughout will be the workforce in Northern Ireland.' But US aerospace giant Boeing said in a statement: 'This looks like a questionable deal between two heavily state-subsidised competitors to skirt the recent findings of the US government. 'Our position remains that everyone should play by the same rules for free and fair trade to work.' Last month, the US Department of Commerce announced it would impose an interim tariff of nearly 220% on the jets with unions warning the move could cost jobs in Belfast. Business Secretary Greg Clark said his staff would continue to work on the issue A second preliminary levy of 80% has been loaded on sales of Bombardier aircraft. Announcing the regulator's preliminary finding, US secretary of commerce Wilbur Ross said the subsidisation of goods by foreign governments was something that President Donald Trump's administration 'takes very seriously'. Bombardier labelled the determination 'absurd', while in its response the UK Government said the statement was 'disappointing' and pledged to defend British interests 'at the very highest levels'. Ross Murdoch, GMB union national officer, said of today's news: 'This sounds like potentially good news for our members in Belfast. But, as always, the devil will be in the detail. 'This deal is liable to further scrutiny from the US administration that may see it as an attempt to dodge their trade tariffs. 'GMB hopes both Bombardier and Airbus have taken cast iron legal advice to ensure they don't get rid of one legal challenge only to open themselves up to another.' Filipino soldiers showed off the dead bodies of two ISIS leaders killed by armed forces in the war-torn Marawi as Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared the region liberated. Duterte declared the southern city of Marawi liberated from pro-Islamic State militants on Tuesday, although a military spokesman said 20-30 rebels were still fighting it out and were holding about 20 hostages. Soldiers posed with the dead bodies of rebel leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute on Monday after they were killed during an army offensive. Filipino soldiers poses with the dead bodies of rebel leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute on Monday after they were killed during an army offensive in the southern city of Marawi Isnilon Hapilon, Islamic State's 'emir' in Southeast Asia, and Omarkhayam Maute, one of two 'Khalifas' at the helm of the Dawla Islamiya militant alliance, were killed in a targeted operation on Monday and their bodies had been recovered and identified, authorities said Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared the southern city of Marawi liberated from pro-Islamic State militants on Tuesday Isnilon Hapilon, Islamic State's 'emir' in Southeast Asia, and Omarkhayam Maute, one of two 'Khalifas' at the helm of the Dawla Islamiya militant alliance, were killed in a targeted operation on Monday and their bodies had been recovered and identified, authorities said. The military said Monday that Hapilon - who figured on the US 'most wanted terrorists' list - was killed in a dawn offensive alongside Maute, one of two brothers who allied with Hapilon to plot the takeover of the city. Duterte had said Hapilon led an ISIS bid to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate as the jihadists suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. Speaking to soldiers a day after the killing of two the leaders of the rebel alliance, Duterte said that it was time to heal the wounded and rebuild the city on the island of Mindanao. 'I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from terrorist influence that marks the beginning of rehabilitation,' Duterte told soldiers in Marawi, a city of 200,000 people. The Philippines president spoke moments after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city. Duterte symbollicly declared a southern city 'liberated from terrorists' influence' but the military said the five-month battle against militants loyal to the Islamic State group was not yet over Philippine soldiers aboard their armored personnel carrier celebrate after President Rodrigo Duterte declared Marawi City 'liberated' Soldiers are pictured in front of a bombed-out building while others hoisted a Philippine flag atop a tank The Philippines president spoke moments after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city. Pictured above, destroyed buildings in the city Philippine soldiers walk past destroyed buldings in Bangolo district, after President Rodrigo Duterte declared Marawi 'liberated' on Tuesday 'I promise you this will never happen again,' he said as he gave troops a salute. Duterte stood on a gymnasium stage with a ruined roof near a tarpaulin bearing large photos of the dead militants. After he left, soldiers took selfies in front of a bombed-out building while others hoisted a Philippine flag atop a tank. Pro-ISIS gunmen occupied parts of Marawi, the main Islamic city in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, on May 23 following a foiled attempt by security forces to arrest Hapilon. Hundreds of foreign and local fighters led by the Maute group had laid a partial siege to the city, captured hostages, torched government buildings and patrolled the streets waving ISIS flags. The 148-day occupation by Islamic State loyalists marked the country's biggest internal security crisis in years. Experts say the government has for years underestimated the extent to which extremism has taken root in impoverished and underdeveloped Muslim areas of the Catholic-majority Philippines. Duterte stood on a gymnasium stage with a ruined roof near a tarpaulin bearing large photos of the dead militants Speaking to soldiers a day after the killing of two the leaders of the rebel alliance, Duterte said that it was time to heal the wounded and rebuild the city on the island of Mindanao Military spokesman Restituto Padilla said that although the fight was not completely over, the remaining rebels were 'stragglers' who no longer posed a threat. 'There is no way that they can get out anymore, there is no way for anyone to get in,' Padilla told news channel ANC. 'So choking them to death at this point will be very key for our troops to do since the area is very much contained and very much controlled,' he added. Military chief of staff General Eduardo Ano later said that the fighting against 20 to 30 remaining militants continued, describing clashes as 'mopping operations'. 'The small number of the remaining enemy can now be considered a law enforcement matter and does not constitute (a) serious threat to hinder (rehabilitation),' Ano said in a statement. Troops persisted in efforts to rescue about 20 hostages, Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the task force battling the militants, told AFP. Philippine military chief General Eduardo Ano (center) holds an image of Islamic militant leader Hapilon, next to Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (right) showing an image of Maute, and Western Mindanao Commanding General Carlito Galvez (left) during a press conference at a military camp in Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao Philippine military chief Gen Eduardo Ano holds pictures of dead militant leaders during a press conference at a military camp in Marawi Asked by reporters if Duterte's declaration was symbolic, Brawner said: 'Yes, because we cannot really say that (the area) is 100 percent cleared.' Padilla said Malaysian operative Mahmud Ahmad had been in Marawi City since the start of the fight and the military believed he was still there. The authorities could not be completely certain, however, but saw him as no threat. 'Dr. Mahmud is an academic, he's not a fighter,' Padilla said. 'We don't feel he is a problem.' As of Tuesday, streets of Marawi were littered with machine gun bullet casings and rubble, including a van and twisted roofing sheets piled up on sidewalks as troops hunted for Mahmud. The military said he was among six to eight foreign fighters in a battle zone comprising about 60 to 80 buildings. Some security experts say Mahmud, 39, a skilled recruiter and fundraiser who trained at an al Qaeda camp in Afghanistan, is a candidate to replace Hapilon as Islamic State's point-man in Southeast Asia. The conflict in Marawi erupted on May 23, when hundreds of foreign and local fighters led by the Maute group had laid a partial siege to the city, captured hostages, torched government buildings and patrolled the streets waving IS flags. Military spokesman Restituto Padilla said that although the fight was not completely over, the remaining rebels were 'stragglers' who no longer posed a threat Terrorism expert Ahmad Kumar Ramakrishna from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies said if Mahmud Ahmad survived he would likely take over the leadership of ISIS-linked fighters in the southern Philippines. The militant is also reported to be a university lecturer in his home country who was in charge of raising finances from abroad for the jihadists and recruitment. The restive south of the Philippines is home to extremist gangs which have declared allegiance to ISIS, including notorious kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf and the Maute group. On Tuesday the military warned against retaliatory attacks from sympathisers of the militants. The United States, a longtime defence ally of the Philippines, vowed on Tuesday to support the military's final push in Marawi. 'The US Government will continue to work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the final phases of this operation, and looks forward to cooperating in assuring the stabilisation and rehabilitation of Marawi,' US embassy press attache Molly Koscina told AFP. ISIS have been defeated in their 'capital' of Raqqa, with flags raised above the public square where the terror group once carried out its brutal beheadings. US-backed militias in Syria say the jihadists' stronghold has been liberated after a bloody four-month battle and the city is now being searched for land mines and ISIS sleeper cells. It represents a major defeat for the collapsing extremist group that had proclaimed Raqqa to be the capital of its so-called 'caliphate'. In Syria, it has been forced back into a strip of the Euphrates valley and surrounding desert. However, the spokesman for the US-led coalition fighting ISIS in the area could only confirm that about 90 per cent of Raqqa had been retaken with pockets of militants still hidden in the war-torn city. Colonel Ryan Dillon said that with the fall of the city, militants will be denied a 'well spring' that provided planning and support for terror operations in Syria and Iraq and around the world. Footage emerged today of SDF fighters raising a flag in Al-Naim (Paradise) Square, which until recently ISIS had been using to carry our horrific executions. Scroll down for video Syrian Democratic Forces launched an operation to retake the last ISIS-held pocket of the city after some 275 militants and their family members surrendered over the weekend. SDF soldiers are pictured this week in Al-Naim square where ISIS once carried out brutal executions An infamous public square where ISIS militants carried out beheadings has been captured by US-led forces with the terror group fleeing Raqqa. This picture is believed to show a man being executed in the square in 2015 Officials in Syria say they the jihadists' so-called capital has been liberated after a bloody battle to recapture Al-Naim (Paradise) Square. The square is shown this week after the area was liberated Fanatics forced residents to watch their killings after summoning them on loudspeakers. Witnesses described how the bodies of those executed would be labelled, each with his or her perceived crime, for the public to see. The square previously known for its famous ice cream shop was quickly renamed from Paradise to Hell (Jahim) Square. A senior Kurdish commander in the city said: 'The group showed off its might in this square. Now it is broken and is chased out of the heart of its alleged capital,' the commander said. SDF fighters launched an operation to retake the last ISIS-held pocket of the city after some 275 militants and their family members surrendered over the weekend. Raqqa fell to ISIS in 2014 and became the de facto capital of their self-styled caliphate. This morning, a commander said the had been liberated and that combing operations are underway to clear the city of land mines and extremist sleeper cells. Brigadier General Talal Sillo said that there are no longer clashes going on in the city. Sillo says a formal declaration will follow befitting 'the fall of the capital of terrorism.' SDF fighters cheered as they installed a flag in the town square that ISIS once used to carry out horrific executions During their reign of terror, ISIS forced hundreds of residents to watch executions in the square. SDF fighters are pictured raising flags after capturing the area A CENTURIES-OLD CITY THAT BECAME AN ISIS STRONGHOLD US-backed militias in Syria have declared victory over ISIS in its capital Raqqa, a milestone in the fight to roll back the 'caliphate' declared in 2014. Here are some facts about Raqqa: THE CITY Raqqa sits on the Euphrates river around 56 miles from the Turkish border in north central Syria. Sunni militant group ISIS overran Raqqa in January 2014, seizing control from rebel factions opposed to the rule of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The United States has said ISIS planned and sent teams from Raqqa to carry out attacks on cities including Paris, Brussels and Istanbul. Sunni militant group ISIS overran Raqqa in January 2014, seizing control from rebel factions opposed to the rule of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad (pictured) THE ANTI-ISIS OFFENSIVE The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of mostly Kurdish and Arab militias, began to advance towards Raqqa city in November 2016. After encircling the city, they launched the offensive to take it, facing tough resistance. The United States-led coalition supported the SDF with air strikes and special forces on the ground. ITS PEOPLE The battle for Raqqa has taken a severe toll on civilians. The United Nations said in March the city contained around 200,000 people, just under its pre-war population. Since late last year, fighting around and in Raqqa has displaced tens of thousands of people. Many have fled the city to camps in surrounding territory now under the control of the SDF and its strongest component, the Kurdish YPG militia. Civilians who were trapped inside the ISIS enclave in the city endured miserable conditions for months, lacking water, power, food and healthcare. As the SDF captured parts of Raqqa they were mostly been cleared of residents. Air strikes, fighting and ISIS snipers and mines have killed many hundreds of people. The United States has said ISIS planned and sent teams from Raqqa to carry out attacks on cities including Paris, Brussels and Istanbul. Militants are pictured in the city in June 2014 The coalition says it is careful to avoid civilian casualties in its bombing runs in Syria and Iraq. But the U.N. human rights office and rights group Amnesty International have raised concerns about reports of high civilian deaths. ISIS imposed its very strict interpretation of Islamic law on Raqqa's residents. The fighters have carried out public executions, lashings and violent punishments for infringements of their rule. AFTER THE FIGHTING The Raqqa campaign has stirred tension between the United States and NATO-ally Turkey. Potential Kurdish influence in the future of the mainly Arab city is sensitive both for some activists from Raqqa and for Turkey. The YPG has become the main U.S. partner in the fight against Islamic State in northern Syria. Ankara views it as a Syrian extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has waged a three-decade insurgency within Turkey, and fears growing Kurdish power along its border. The SDF's political allies have set up a Raqqa Civil Council of people from the city, which the SDF has said it will hand control to after Islamic State's defeat. This echoes the pattern in other towns and cities that the SDF captured. The U.S.-led coalition has helped train a new police force for the city. Islamic State has made enemies of all sides in the more than six-year Syrian conflict, with separate offensives now trying to clear it from its last foothold in the towns along the Euphrates river in eastern Syria near the Iraqi border. Besides the U.S.-backed SDF, the Syrian army, with Russian jets and Iran-backed militias, is also waging its own campaign against Islamic State in eastern Syria. HERITAGE A modern-day provincial transport hub and market town, Raqqa was built by the Abbasid Islamic Caliphate in the eighth century, serving as its capital at one point. It has been inhabited since antiquity and contains important archaeological and architectural sites. The United Nations has said they have been extensively looted during the war and religious buildings have been damaged. ISIS militants released a video of them bombing a large part of the Uwais al-Qarani shrine complex in March 2014. Advertisement Dozens of militants who refused to surrender had made their last stand in the city's stadium, which had become notorious as a prison and dungeons for the group. It wasn't immediately clear if the ISIS militants are still holed up inside the stadium. There were also reports this morning that Kurdish-led forces have captured the city hospital in Raqqa, which served as an ISIS headquarters. The facility was one of the militants' last holdouts in Raqqa and had doubled as a hospital and an ISIS command center. Musafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, says 22 ISIS militants were killed in the advance on the hospital. It comes as an international charity group revealed tens of thousands of people who fled Raqqa are in bad need of aid and that the 'camps are bursting at the seams.' Save the Children says some 270,000 people who fled the Raqqa fighting are still in critical need of aid. With the high levels of destruction reported in and around Raqqa, most families have nowhere to return home and are likely to stay in camps for months or years to come. Sonia Khush, Save the Children's director for Syria, described conditions in the camps where displaced from Raqqa are staying as 'miserable and families do not have enough food, water or medicine.' Witnesses described how the bodies of those executed would be labelled in the square (pictured), each with his or her perceived crime, for the public to see Khush said the 'children have suffered for years' and that they 'must not be forgotten once the fighting subsides.' Meanwhile, Syria's state news agency says government forces have captured several villages in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour from ISIS. SANA says government troops and their allies liberated the villages of Mouhassan, Bouomar and Bouleil that were once strongholds of the extremist group. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported earlier that government forces captured all areas between the eastern city of Deir el-Zour and the town of Mayadeen to the south. The Observatory also reported that government forces now control more than 90 per cent of the city of Deir el-Zour, where a major offensive is underway to capture remaining ISIS-held neighborhoods. Advertisement She was the last of the iconic supersonic passenger jets to be built and the last to fly. But now, 14 years after her final flight, the public can board Concorde Alpha Foxtrot once again today as she goes on display at a 19million new home in Bristol. The Anglo-French supersonic plane, which could cross the Atlantic in three hours, can be seen at aviation heritage museum Aerospace Bristol, which opens today. The museum promises that visitors will be 'wowed by a dramatic projection show on to the supersonic jet that tells the story of Concorde and what it was like to fly at twice the speed of sound'. Concorde Alpha Foxtrot is going on display to the public from today at a 19million new museum called Aerospace Bristol The cockpit of Concorde 216, the last aircraft of its type to be built and which made the fleet's final flight, is pictured today Visitors inspect the cabin of Concorde 216, where it is now the centrepiece in a dedicated Concorde museum that has opened Aerospace Bristol promises that visitors will be 'wowed by a dramatic projection show on to the supersonic jet' Harry Bertuca puts his hands on the controls of Concorde G-BOAF ('Alpha Foxtrot') at the new museum in Filton, Bristol The toilet and washbasin in Concorde 216, which was built at the British Aerospace site in Filton, Bristol, is pictured today Two-year-old Luke Ede looks at the wheels of the Concorde plane at Aerospace Bristol with his grandfather Richard James Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, also known as Concorde G-BOAF, is back on display having been sat on a disused runway near Bristol since her final flight. The suburb of Filton, which sees itself as Concorde's spiritual home in the UK, was where the planes were built and maintained and the site of the new museum. John Britton, who is now volunteering at the museum having been the plane's chief UK engineer from 1994, told of his emotion at seeing her back on show. He told the Guardian: 'It's brilliant. I was here when this plane took off for the first time from Filton and I was here when she landed for the final time.' A visitor walks between the four Rolls Royce engines, which used 'reheat' technology to give her the extra power for take-off The museum, in a 100-year-old Grade II-listed building, was helped by a 4.7million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund Visitors can explore the history of Concorde, step aboard the iconic aircraft, and watch a projection shown on the jet Spectators gather in November 2003 around Concorde 216 after the last-ever flight of the aircraft type, in Filton, Bristol Concorde 216 passes over thousands of spectators at the end of the last-ever flight of the aircraft type in Filton in 2003 British Airways Concorde Alpha Foxtrot takes off from London Heathrow Airport on her first verification flight on July 17, 2001 An undated photograph of the roll out of a Concorde at Filton in Bristol, where the aircraft were made Spectators gather in September 1968 for the roll out of a Concorde at Filton in Bristol, where the museum has now opened British Airways and Air France retired the fleet of Concordes due to low passenger numbers following the crash that killed 113 people in Paris in 2000, and rising maintenance costs - with the last flight on October 2003. CONCORDE BY NUMBERS Capacity 100 passengers and 2.5 tonnes of cargo Seating 100 seats, 40 in the front cabin and 60 in the rear cabin Range 4,143 miles (6,667 kms) Engines Four Rolls-Royce/SNECMA Olympus 593s Take-off speed 250mph (400kph) Cruising speed 1,350mph (2,160kph/Mach Two) up to 60,000 ft Landing speed 187mph (300kph) Length 203ft 9ins (62.1m) Wing span 83ft 8ins (25.5m) Height 37ft 1in (11.3m) Fuel 26,286 gallons (119,500 litres) Crew Two pilots, one flight engineer, six cabin First flight London Heathrow to Bahrain, BA300 on 21 January 1976 Last flight New York JFK to London Heathrow, BA2 on 24 October 2003 Mr Britton added: 'If something is not making money, it goes. I'm glad I've been able to bring my grandchildren here so they can see what was achieved.' Concorde was wrapped in protective film while works were completed around the aircraft and the end wall of her new purpose-built hangar was built. Protective film specialist firm Packexe wrapped and unwrapped the jet, and she can now be viewed with tickets costing 15 for adults, 13 seniors and 8 children. The Bristol Aero Collection Trust has developed Aerospace Bristol, which aims to take visitors through more than a century of aviation history. The museum will also focus on the role played by aircraft during the two world wars and how technology advanced during the space race. Lloyd Burnell, executive director of Aerospace Bristol, said 'Aerospace Bristol offers something for everyone. 'Concorde, as always, has the power to amaze and looks just stunning in her new home. 'We have created a first-class exhibition to tell the story of Bristol's aerospace achievements from 1910 to the modern day, and there are great fun interactives to keep all members of the family interested and entertained. 'We hope that all those who saw Concorde on her final flight into Filton that historic day will want to be one of the first to come and pay tribute to this very special design and engineering icon and learn about the Bristol people who worked here over the years.' Other exhibits in the museum include model aircraft, including a model Bristol Boxkite, a Bristol babe replica, a Bristol Scout replica and a Bristol Fighter replica. Dozens of spectators gather as they watch Concorde land at London Heathrow Airport for the last time on October 24, 2003 Concorde lands in Seattle, Washington, in November 1984. The supersonic jet flew until she was retired from service in 2003 The Queen sits on a flight home from Barbados on Concorde after a Silver Jubilee tour of Canada and the West Indies in 1977 Also on show are engines, including the Hercules, Pegasus and Olympus 593, the forward sections of a Bristol Beaufighter and a Bristol Britannia. The museum, which is housed in a 100-year-old Grade II listed building, was helped by a 4.7million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. How Concorde flew faster than sound Supersonic flight is anything faster than the speed of sound or 768mph (1,236km/h). Concorde's top speed was much faster than this at around twice the speed of sound. It could fly people from London to New York in less than 3.5 hours. Supersonic flight can create sonic booms - formed because air reacts like a fluid to supersonic objects. As objects travel through the air, the air molecules are pushed aside with great force. This forms a shock wave, like the wave created by the front, or bow, of a boat moving in water. The shock wave forms a cone of pressurised air. A sharp release of pressure after the buildup of a shock wave is heard as a sonic boom. Source: Nasa Advertisement Fundraising for the project is not yet complete and Aerospace Bristol has launched a public appeal for Concorde memories and donations to support the museum. The opening comes a week after BBC documentary told the story of how Concorde almost never got off the ground following an Anglo-French row about her spelling. The supersonic jet was jointly manufactured by Sud Aviation, in Toulouse, and the British Aircraft Corporation, London and Bristol, under a 1962 Anglo-French treaty. But the treaty was almost torn up in 1967 - in a row over how they would spell her name. As was retold in last Tuesday's BBC Four programme Concorde: A Supersonic Story, the two countries initially agreed on 'Concord' to show their harmony - before French president Charles de Gaulle added an 'e', to make the word French. But furious prime minister Harold Wilson ordered the 'e' be removed, to revert it to the English translation and the fallout threatened to derail the entire project. It was only in 1967 when Minister for Technology Tony Benn agreed to add the 'e' that the planes were finally finished in Bristol and Toulouse. Mr Benn smoothed over Mr Wilson's anger by explaining his 'e' actually represented 'Excellence, England, Europe and Entente (Cordiale)'. The documentary also uncovered how spiralling costs yet again almost prompted the UK to pull out of the deal altogether. And it told how as the two countries' engineers were working together, both sides of workers took language lessons to help them communicate. Passengers on Concorde (pictured in 1965), which stretched between six and ten inches in flight due to the airframe heating A group of some of the air hostesses in 1960 who attended to passengers on Concorde; each one from a different airline A British Aiways air stewardess serves sausages to a passenger on Concorde for the first time in May 1988 Concorde pilot Tony Brown sits at the complex controls of the famous supersonic jet in June 1986 The first flight of the supersonic prototype 'Concorde 01' is pictured with Pilot Andre Turcat in command on March 2, 1969 Britain's prototype of Concorde is shown off at her hangar at the British Aircraft Corporation works at Filton, Bristol, in 1968 Pilots and hostesses from airliners which ordered Concorde stand in front of the plane in Toulouse, France, in December 1967 Concorde chief pilot Mike Bannister (left) and veteran politician Tony Benn (right) on Breakfast With Frost in October 2003. The former Labour minister who drove forward the Concorde project described the supersonic aircraft as 'beautiful' Concorde Alpha Foxtrot is back on display having been sat on a disused runway near Bristol since her final flight (pictured) The plane was on the airstrip in Filton until recently when it was restored and put in the new museum in Bristol Broadcaster Sir David Frost became Concorde's most frequent flier for a period, when he travelled between London and New York to present his talk shows an average of 20 times a year for 20 years. Where are they now? BA Concordes you can see around the world Concorde 002 - G-BSST The Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton, Somerset Concorde 101 G-AXDN Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridgeshire Concorde 202 G-BBGD Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, Surrey Concorde 204 G-BOAC Manchester Airport Concorde 206 G-BOAA Museum of Flight, East Lothian, Scotland Concorde 208 G-BOAB London Heathrow Airport Concorde 210 G-BOAD Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, New York Concorde 212 G-BOAE Grantley Adams Airport, Barbados Concorde 214 G-BOAG Museum of Flight, Seattle Concorde 216 G-BOAF Aerospace Bristol Advertisement He famously said he was 'not driven, but flown', and his former boss Greg Dyke previously recalled that a cabin attendant on Concorde once told him: 'So sorry, Mr Frost, it's caviar again.' Concorde was also the location of the worlds longest putt by Jose Maria Olazabal, when the European Team for the 1999 Ryder Cup at Brookline travelled from London to Boston on the plane. During the flight, Olazabal was chosen to sink a 150ft putt into a cup at the far end of the cabin. His successful shot ran for 26.17 seconds and it was calculated that, with Concorde flying at 1,270mph, the ball had actually travelled 9.232 miles. Concorde had a maximum speed of 1,354mph, which is over twice the speed of sound. She first took to the skies in 1969 but travellers had to wait until 1976 until they could fly in her. There has only ever been one other supersonic commercial plane - the Soviet-built Tupolev Tu-144, aka Concordski. Concorde was retired in 2003, three years after the crash of Air France Flight 4590, in which all passengers and crew were killed. Twenty aircraft were built, including prototypes. Air France and British Airways were the only airlines to purchase and fly them. They were used mainly by wealthy passengers who could afford to pay a high price in exchange for Concorde's speed and luxury service. The original program cost estimate was 70million - but huge overruns and delays meant that the program eventually cost 1.3billion. How the supersonic jet that got you to New York in just three hours caused one of aviation's biggest disasters Seventeen years ago, the world was left horrified after 113 people were killed when a Concorde jet dramatically crashed. Both Air France and British Airways grounded their fleets for more than a year when the jet came down near Paris in July 2000, having taken off from Charles de Gaulle Airport just two minutes earlier. One of the left-hand engines had caught fire on take-off, and investigations later revealed that a 16-inch piece of metal lost by a plane that had taken off five minutes earlier had punctured one of the Concorde's tyres. Some 113 people were killed when one of the Concorde supersonic jets crashed minutes after take off from Paris in July 2000 Both Air France and British Airways grounded their fleets for more than a year after 113 people were killed in the tragedy in Paris This caused debris to be flung into the fuel tank which then started a huge fire. The Daily Mail's front page on July 26, 2000, following the disaster The Air France jet bound for New York went into a Relais Bleu hotel in Gonesse, ten miles north of Paris. Witnesses told of a 'huge fireball' followed by a dense cloud of black smoke when the plane crashed. Most of the passengers on board being German tourists travelling to New York John F Kennedy Airport where they were due to join a cruise ship bound for Equador. After the incident, the plane's fuel tanks were fitted with bullet-proof Kevlar rubber linings and tougher tyres. Concorde returned to service on September 5, 2001, after an 18million refit, but six days later came the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon that dealt a body blow to transatlantic air traffic. The planes were completely retired from service in 2003. Four decades earlier, Concorde had been jointly developed and produced by British and French engineers as part of an Anglo-French treaty. She had a take off speed of 220 knots (250mph) and a cruising speed of 1,350mph - more than twice the speed of sound. A typical London to New York crossing would take just under three-and-a-half hours, compared to the normal eight hours. A total of 20 aircraft were built in France and the United Kingdom. Six of these were prototypes and development aircraft. The remaining 14 were split between Air France and British Airways. Concorde was the most tested aircraft, having undergone 5,000 hours before she was allowed to carry passengers. She was first flown in 1969, and first entered service in 1976. She carried commercial passengers for 27 years. The aircraft's four Rolls Royce engines used 'reheat' technology, which gave her the extra power for take-off and supersonic flight. According to British Airways, Concorde's fastest transatlantic crossing took place on February 7, 1996, when she travelled from New York to London in just two hours, 52 minutes and 59 seconds. Advertisement Timeline: How the supersonic jet which became a Trans-Atlantic taxi for the stars excited the world but ultimately ended in failure March 2, 1969 - Concorde makes its maiden flight when the French-built 001 prototype takes off from Toulouse, France. British prototype 002 makes its maiden flight a month later. January 21, 1976 - British Airways begins its first regular Concorde service from London to Bahrain. Air France begins a service from Paris to Rio de Janeiro. May 24, 1976 - Concorde begins flights to Washington from London and Paris. Passengers fill a full-scale model of the Concorde jet at the British Aircraft Corporation factory at Filton, Bristol, in 1967 November 22, 1977 - After two years of legal wrangling, Concorde begins regular commercial flights to New York from London and Paris. April 20, 1979 - The 16th and last production Concorde makes its first flight. November 1, 1980 - British Airways terminates its Concorde service to Bahrain and Singapore due to lack of demand. Former prime minister Tony Blair talks with reporters aboard Concorde as he flies from Denver to New York in June 1997 March 1985 - Concorde breaks the speed record from London to Cape Town, covering the 6,000 miles in eight hours and eight minutes, three hours faster than a Boeing 747 in 1977. April 14, 1989 - British air safety officials order checks on all the British Concorde fleet after one plane loses half its rudder over the Tasman Sea but lands safely. It is the first major incident in more than 20 years of flying. March 21, 1992 - A BA Concorde loses a large section of its upper rudder during a flight from London to New York. February 7, 1996 - Concorde makes its fastest transatlantic crossing in 2 hours 52 minutes and 59 seconds, beating its own record set in 1990 by one minute 30 seconds. Sting serves champagne to Piers Morgan, who is now DailyMail.com U.S. Editor-at-Large, on a Concorde flight in 2001 July 24, 2000 - British Airways says it has detected cracks in the wings of its seven Concordes, causing one plane to be grounded, but says there is no danger to passengers. July 25, 2000 - An Air France Concorde crashes just after takeoff from Paris Charles de Gaulle airport, killing all 109 on board and four people on the ground. November 7, 2001 - Concorde returns to service with transatlantic flights resuming from London and Paris. November 27, 2002 - Part of one of Concorde's four rudders falls off during a British Airways flight from London to New York. The flight lands safely and no injury was caused. The Red Arrows and Concorde take part in a fly pass over Buckingham Palace to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee in 2002 February 19, 2003 - An Air France Concorde carrying 56 people to New York from Paris makes emergency landing in Halifax, Nova Scotia, after an engine malfunction. February 26, 2003 - British Airways says reviewing possible retirement of Concorde. October 24, 2003 - British Airways runs its last commercial flight when 100 celebrities, VIPs and reporters flew from New York to London. Air France retired its fleet in May. November 26, 2003 - Concorde returns to Bristol on its very last flight from London's Heathrow. Captain Mike Bannister and First Officer Jonathan Napier wave Union Jack flags as the last Concorde lands in London in 2003 December 14, 2004 - A judicial investigation into the 2000 crash concludes that a piece of metal left on the runway from a Continental flight caused one of the Air France Concorde's tires to burst on takeoff and send debris into an engine. March 12, 2008 - A French public prosecutor asks judges to bring manslaughter charges against U.S. carrier Continental Airlines over the 2000 crash of Concorde. December 6, 2010 - Continental is found guilty of involuntary homicide, fined 200,000 and told to pay 1million in damages to Air France. Continental mechanic John Taylor gets a 15-month suspended prison sentence. November 29, 2012 - French appeals court clears Continental of criminal blame and overturns Mr Taylor's criminal conviction. It quashes the 200,000 fine but says Continental still bears civil responsibility and upholds the 1million payment. A Cologne mayor has accused the city's police of 'giving up control' of a town square frequented by drug dealers. The critique came after a 22-year-old man was stabbed to death in a gang fight between African migrants on Ebertplatz in Cologne's central Innenstadt district. Andreas Hupke, mayor of Innenstadt, said police had been focusing on Cologne's central station, where mass sexual assaults took place on New Year's Eve 2015, leaving criminals to take over other parts of the city centre. Critique: Cologne police's focus on the area where mass sexual assaults took place on New Year's Eve 2015 (pictured), has left criminals to take over other parts of the city, a mayor said 'It can't go on like this. Ebertplatz has been a trouble spot for a long time. The most recent incidents are a horrible proof of what the police have been saying - they can't solve this problem alone,' Mr Hupke said according to The Local. Mr Hupke, a Green Party politician, added that police had 'given up control of Ebertplatz', a square infamous for drug dealing. Police report that the area is frequented in particular by young men, and many of non-German background. Local newspaper The Express reports that frequenters are 'young men from north and sub-Saharan Africa [...] some drug dealers are travelling there from asylum shelters from across the country'. Abandoned: Cologne police, pictured outside the central station, were accused of 'giving up control' of Ebertplatz - a town square frequented by drug dealers Police have referred to the square as an 'Angstraum' a term which literally translates to 'fear room'. The term is used to describe an urban space where there is a feeling of being under threat or risk of being a victim of a crime, such as dark underpasses or unsupervised carparks. The man who was stabbed to death on Eberplatz on Saturday was a 22-year-old African migrant. He was killed in a fight with at least five other young men of the same background at around 9.45pm. Police arrested three men in the vicinity of the crime scene, aged 22, 23 and 25. Three young children who vanished more than three weeks ago have been found safe and well. A six-year-old boy and his five-year-old twin sisters vanished from Cleveland, south of Brisbane, on September 24. Queensland police confirmed that a 39-year-old is currently assisting police with their inquiries. A search for a six-year-old boy and his five-year-old twin sisters has ended as they have been found safe and well by Queensland police Queensland police confirmed that a 39-year-old is currently assisting police with their inquiries (the twins are pictured) Marcin Kurek is about 175cm tall with balding blonde hair and green eyes Marcin Kurek was believed to be in the company of a 65-year-old woman (pictured) It was reported earlier that the man was in fact the children's father Marcin Kurek and he was accompanied by a 65-year-old woman. Pictures were released of the pair in a bid to locate the children. Aldo Contestabile - a friend of Mr Kurek's - told Daily Mail Australia he seemed 'happy.' 'Marcin is a beautiful person. He's been an incredible friend to me,' Mr Contestabile said. 'As far as I know he had moved to Queensland, he was happy and he loves his kids. The six-year-old boy (pictured) is around 120cm tall with a thin build, black hair and brown eyes The five-year-old girls are 100cm tall with a slim build, and also have black hair and brown eyes 'He's just a really nice person. He was very happy with his life. He loves his kids and his wife.' Police had urged anyone with information on their whereabouts to come forward. They were believed to be travelling on public transport after police recovered the silver Proton they were using in the Bayside area on Monday. A former Gurkha soldier tried to hack his wife to death with a Nepalese Kukri knife as a 999 operator listened to her screams, a court has heard. Bikash Gurung inflicted such terrible injuries on his wife Kamana that both he and a policeman who attended the scene believed she was dead. Miraculously, 37-year-old nurse Kamana survived fractures to her skull, jaw and neck and a nearly-severed finger following life-saving work by doctors. Gurung, who served 23 years in the Gurkha Regiment before becoming a security guard, admitted attempted murder and was jailed for 14 years this week. Bikash Gurung (left) has been jailed for attempting to hack his wife Kamana (right) to death The couple had been married for 20 years, following an arranged marriage, the court heard. But in the build-up to to the attack Gurung had an affair and his wife started a relationship with a man she online, the court heard. She planned to tell him she wanted a divorce on the day of the attack, the judge was told. But Gurung, 42, was controlling and constantly checked her mobile phone and other devices. He was 'pre-occupied with a loss of self respect and honour' at the thought of her divorcing him, prosecutors said. The pair clashed at their home in Swindon on December 29 last year and Gurung picked up his Kukri, a 18-inch long knife, and attacked her. Mrs Gurung dialled 999 and the recording of her conversation with the operator was played in court. She sounded calm as she gave details of Gurung hitting her earlier that day and said she was seeking advice and did not want to see him locked up. Gurung's voice could be heard in the background at times during the long call as the operator questioned her about what had happened and whether Gurung could hear her. Mrs Guring told the operator her two children, aged seven and eight, had been out at school earlier when her husband had beaten her 'black and blue' that day. The operator assured her officers were on the way to her home as they spoke. She told the operator Gurung was shocked she was calling the police but was not threatening her at that time. The court heard Gurung was scared of the 'loss of honour' he would face if his wife left him She said she was frightened of him and that he was becoming more violent as he tried to prevent her leaving him. As Mrs Gurung was telling the operator 'He has broken bones when he assaulted me before - he broke my nose' she suddenly started shrieking and screaming before falling silent. Gurung then made a second 999 call telling the operator he had killed his wife. The court heard the couple's eight-year-old son came downstairs to see the horrific scene. The first police officer on the scene was a special constable who thought Mrs Gurung was dead after seeing her lying motionless in a large pool of blood. Then another PC then arrived and saw signs of life. He started resuscitation until paramedics arrived to take over. Mrs Gurung spent two months in hospital and is still feeling the effects of her injuries now, ten months later, said . Her hands will never fully recover. A traditional kukri knife, like that pictured in this file photo, was used in the attack She later told police her husband had suddenly launched the murderous attack while she was on the phone and had shouted 'I'm going to kill you now. I won't let you live.' KUKRI: REGIMENT'S SYMBOL OF VALOUR The iconic kukri knife used by the Gurkhas can be a weapon or a tool. It is the traditional utility knife of the Nepalese people, but is mainly known as a symbolic weapon for Gurkha regiments all over the world. The kukri signifies courage and valour on the battlefield and is sometimes worn by bridegrooms during their wedding ceremony. Advertisement Gurung had rained down chopping blows on her with the knife and her hands had taken the brunt of them as she tried to defend herself. 'He was chopping at her neck - holding her head and pulling her hair,' prosecutor Rob Wellings said. 'She went down and he continued attacking her while she was on the floor.' When Gurung was questioned by police he said: 'My wife found a new boyfriend.. That's why. Is she dead? I tried to kill her.' Retired Gurkha brigadier Bruce Jackman spoke of Gurung's character in court. Brigadier Jackman said: 'He was a completely honest gurkha. That is how I always knew him. He was loyal, respectful - I had the highest regard for him. 'He did not seek to minimise his actions when I spoke to him. He regretted what he had done. His words were that it was a moment of madness.' Judge Michael Cullum ordered Gurung serve at least two thirds his sentence and a five-year extended licence period after his release. He imposed an indefinite restraining order, which bans Gurung from contacting his wife. Sarah Wilkins is available for interviews and you can meet her at the Alliance Francaise Wellington on November 8 at 9am for a talk about her artistic life between France and New Zealand. Bethany Fisher, pictured, died outside her mother's home in the horror crash A heartbroken mother rushed outside after being woken by a car crash only to find that her teenage daughter was the victim of a new driver who lost control of his car while 'showing off'. Bethany Fisher was celebrating her birthday when she was killed by Jordan O'Donnell who ignored her pleas to slow down then fled and left her to die. He was 'on the face of it showing off' behind the wheel of a high-powered saloon after offering a lift to the 19-year-old and her best friend Meg McBurnie. As he reached estimated speeds of around 60mph in residential streets of Bedlington, Northumberland, the girls in the back seat asked him to stop it. But as the 20-year-old - who had only passed his test weeks earlier - carried out a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre on a bend, he lost control, smashing into parked cars, careering out of control and hitting a fence and wall. The noise of the crash woke Bethany's mum, Isabel Easson, and she went out into the street on Victoria Terrace to seek to help - only to be confronted with the horrific scene of her daughter fatally injured and Meg lying on the ground screaming in agony. Despite the devastation he had caused, O'Donnell callously fled to his home nearby and calmly phoned police, lying that his turbo-charged Ford Mondeo ST had been stolen during a burglary at his home and requesting police attend. The noise of the crash woke Bethany's mum and she went out into the street where her daughter (pictured) was lying fatally injured O'Donnell, who admitted causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, causing death by driving while uninsured, attempting to pervert the course of justice and failing to stop after an accident, has been locked up for six years at Newcastle Crown Court. Judge Paul Sloan QC told O'Donnell, who sobbed throughout the hearing on a video-link from custody: 'Miss McBurnie was telling you to stop it, Miss Fisher was telling you to slow down but you continued to drive as before, on the face of it showing off. 'You were clearly driving at a grossly excessive speed.' The judge added: 'No sentence I'm permitted in law to pass could ever begin to ease the pain they will always suffer as a result of your actions. 'You will forever have to live with the knowledge that as a result of your dangerous driving that night, you killed Bethany Fisher.' O'Donnell was 'showing off' behind the wheel of a high-powered car after offering a lift to the 19-year-old and her best friend Meg McBurnie (pictured) The court heard Bethany had turned 19 on August 17 and the following night went out celebrating with friends. O'Donnell was out with his pals and had earlier bought 20 bottles of Stella Artois. They later went to Astons Late Bar, on Front Street, Bedlington, where Bethany and Meg also were. Meg had known O'Donnell since they were 15 and he offered to take her and Bethany to a house the girls were heading to. Bethany and Meg were in the back of the car - along with a male - and there was another man in the front passenger seat. Prosecutor Mark Giuliani said: 'The defendant was driving dangerously, sliding from side to side. O'Donnell, pictured, was locked up for six years at Newcastle Crown Court 'Meg McBurnie said it was 'completely reckless', the car was jerking from left to right and he was very fast and she even hit her head. 'She said 'I was telling him to stop it and Beth told him to slow down'.' Another motorist saw the Mondeo speed up behind her so she slowed down to let it past and she estimated it was doing at least 60mph as he overtook, on the wrong side of the carriageway, where the road bends. Neighbours came out after hearing a crash at around 1.45am on August 19, including Bethany's mum, who saw Meg lying on the ground screaming before noticing her daughter fatally injured. Mr Giuliani said: 'Miss Fisher suffered serious injuries in the back of the car. She was unconscious, with her life rapidly slipping away. The scene of the crash on Bedlington's Victoria Terrace is pictured 'This collision happened almost outside her front door. Her mum, as many other neighbours did, on hearing the noise came out. Her mother witnessed her daughter dying. Miss Easson collapsed in the road, screaming and another resident came to help her.' At 2.05am O'Donnell dialled 999 to falsely claim his home, just 50 metres from the scene of the crash, had been burgled and his car stolen. The court heard he was sounded 'calm and collected and showed no distress whatsoever'. When later arrested and told Bethany had died, O'Donnell replied: 'You're joking aren't you.' Meg, 19, was left with five fractures to her pelvis, still needs the use of a wheelchair and crutches and is expected to suffer back pain for the rest of her life. O'Donnell, of Waverley Court, Bedlington, will be banned from driving for four years following his release. An outraged airline passenger is suing United Airlines after a drunken passenger exposed his penis before urinating on him on a flight between Los Angeles and Newark. Passenger Daniel Card claims that on June 12 he boarded the flight and was sitting next to a man who was 'heavily intoxicated' before the flight and had 'fallen into a drunken stupor'. According to lawsuit filed in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Card said he could smell 'a powerful odor of alcohol' coming from the man's breath and body. Daniel Card claims he was forced to sit next to a drunken passenger after boarding a United Airlines flight in Los Angeles who exposed him self before take off and began urinating, file pic Card claimed he was forced to remain in urine soaked clothes for the rest of the flight The drunken passenger has not yet been identified according to court documents. According to Card's affidavit: ''As the flight was getting ready to take off, the passenger seated in 24E took out his penis, aimed it at Card and proceeded to urinate all over Card's leg, while Card was confined to his seat due to an imminent departure of the flight. 'Upon being soaked in the passenger's urine, Card further noticed that the odor of the urine also emitted a powerful scent of alcohol.' The court documents said Card was unable to rouse the passenger from his 'drunken stupor'. Upon being soaked in the passenger's urine, Card further noticed that the odor of the urine also emitted a powerful scent of alcohol Daniel Card's statement of claim Card complained to cabin crew who initially refused to move him to another seat to 'avoid the continued humiliation, assault and inhumane experience of sitting in urine soaked clothes on a urine soaked seat'. The lawsuit said Card was forced to endure the remainder of the cross-country flight in urine soaked clothes. While on the aircraft, Card contacted his father who rang the FBI who were at the gate to meet the aircraft when it arrived in New Jersey. The FBI questioned both Card and the man. The man told agents he had drank at least four rum and cokes at the airport bar in Los Angeles, but had no recollection about what happened in the aircraft. A spokeswoman for United Airlines said: 'We have not yet been served with this suit and due to the pending litigation involved in this matter, were unable to provide further comment.' A Royal Marine saw steam rising from his lover's head after his scorned wife poured a kettle of boiling water over her, a court heard. Monika Fourie, 34, is alleged to have seen red and doused Hannah Stokes, 24, with scalding water from a cup and a kettle, covering her head, neck and chest. Miss Stokes was left with 'terrible burns' as a result of the incident ,which happened after she began an affair with Fourie's husband Wouter, a few weeks before. Today, Mr Fourie told Plymouth Crown Court how his girlfriend screamed for help as she was attacked by his furious wife. Monika Fourie (left) arrives at Plymouth Crown Court today, where she denied causing grievous bodily harm to Hannah Stokes (right), who broke down as she gave evidence He said: 'I saw Monika grab a kettle and she had rage in her face like she wanted to hurt Hannah very badly. 'She poured hot boiling water on Hannah's head. I saw the steam. Hannah was in agony.' The attack is alleged to have unfolded after Fourie unexpectedly walked in on the pair at her home in Plymouth, Devon, as they sat in the lounge. She said she was going to make some tea - but poured water from a cup over blonde Miss Stokes, Plymouth Crown Court heard. Fourie then emptied the remaining water from the kettle over her, a jury was told. Mr Fourie said he had met Miss Stokes four months before incident, after his marriage began to go off the rails. The Royal Marine explained that he was blown up twice by an IED in Afghanistan in 2013, which caused a lot of strain on his relationship. He had he returned to the marital home just under a week before the alleged kettle attack, after going on a marine training course in America. Mr Fourie initially told his wife he had cheated on her with one night stands and then a few days later said he had met someone. Miss Stokes (right) was allegedly attacked by Fourie, after starting a relationship with her alleged attacker's husband Wouter (left, he arrives at court today) His wife moved out of their home a few days before she walked in on the two lovers. Mr Fourie said: 'I was at home with Hannah and my daughter who was upstairs watching a film. 'My wife let herself in. I looked at Hannah and we were both shocked. She used her key to open the door. I was not expecting my wife to walk in. 'She asked where my daughter was and went straight to the kettle to switch it on. 'She looked at Hannah and asked ''who are you? What is your name and do you have any kids?'' The expression in her face was like ''who is this woman in my house?'' 'Monika said ''don't worry, I will not do anything to your girlfriend.'' 'As I went upstairs I heard Hannah screaming. She was shouting ''help, help, please help.'' 'I ran downstairs and I could see Monika holding Hannah by her hair and bending down.' After the she poured the boiling water on Miss Stokes, Mr Fourie said he managed to push his wife away and she left out the back door. Fourie (pictured) is supported by friends as she arrives at Plymouth Crown Court today Her victim then grabbed her shoes before fleeing out the front of the house Mr Fourie said his wife then came back around to the house where she threw several bottles and grabbed Miss Stoke's hair, before punching her. He added: 'Monika grabbed everything she could and threw bottles towards the main door.' After separating them, Mr Fourie drove his girlfriend to hospital. He added: 'My first thought was to get Hannah to hospital as soon as possible as I did not want her to die.' Mr Fourie said his wife went back to her native Poland after the incident. He continued: 'Me and Hannah were both in shock. We were not going to press any charges if she let it go. She lost her husband. 'Monika said ''please, please make sure you do whatever you can to make sure this woman does not press any charges.'' Fourie (left), 34, is alleged to have seen red and doused Miss Stokes (right) with scalding water from a cup and a kettle, covering her head, neck and chest Mr Fourie said he collected his estranged wife and their daughter from the airport when they returned to the UK on 9 November. He said: 'I had no plans to get back together with Monika and I was continuing to see Hannah. 'Monika then told me she was pregnant. I was in shock. She showed me a test but I still did not believe her. 'She wanted me to tell Hannah so she would break up with me. I told her ''I am still not going to come back''. Mr Fourie said he and Hannah continued their relationship but split up just over a year ago. The court heard Monika and Wouter Fourie first met in a pub in Hamburg in 2004. The court heard she quickly fell in love with him and they both moved to England in 2006. She left her family in Poland behind and was described as a 'devoted wife' after their marriage in 2008. He said: 'She started to push me away. We constantly argued and she did not understand why I was always away. (With the marines) Fourie was alleged to have left love-rival Miss Stokes, (right) with 'terrible burns' 'I did not tell Hannah I was married initially. But I had decided to end my marriage as I was not happy anymore. 'I told her ''I am leaving you'' and she started blaming herself. She said she was still going to fight for me but I told her I had an affair. 'She said she could take affairs but if I was seeing someone else she could not take it. 'When I told her I had one night stands she said she had not been a good wife to me.' Giving evidence, Miss Stokes fought back tears as she told the court how she would have to live with the consequences of her affair for the rest of her life. She said: 'I saw someone full of rage. She was hunting me down. I know we both did something wrong in this situation and the reality is that I had an affair. 'But now I am out of the shock, I know I did not deserve what I got. 'I would have to be sick to exaggerate the hell I have been through. 'I have to live with this every day for the rest of my life with what she did. 'She had snapped as I was in her house. I don't want to be here. I don't want to be in the press. I don't need that.' Fourie has denied causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Miss Stokes in October 2015 - but has admitted the alternative charge of causing GBH without intent. I saw someone full of rage. She was hunting me down Hannah Stokes Prosecutor Miss Jo Martin said Miss Stokes was treated for second degree partial thickness burns down to her navel and had surgery for a perforated eardrum. There was no dispute that Fourie had poured the water over her rival causing serious injury, she told the court. But she said the issue was whether she intended to cause serious harm. The Crown said blonde haired Fourie and her South African husband, who have a daughter together, were having marital problems. And in September 2015 he began an affair with Miss Stokes - and he later told Fourie about the new relationship believing their marriage was over. The court heard Fourie took that news calmly and they discussed money and childcare. On the day of the attack, Fourie was 'eerily calm' as she walked into the house and asked her husband to introduce them. Miss Stokes was treated for second degree partial thickness burns down to her navel and had surgery for a perforated eardrum after the alleged attack, Plymouth Crown Court heard Fourie asked her rival how old she was and if she had children and asked her husband to go upstairs. Miss Martin said: 'Mrs Fourie approached Miss Stokes with a cup of tea. Miss Stokes presumed it was a cup of tea. It was not. 'It was boiling water and Monika Fourie threw it over her neck and chest area. 'She started to scream with pain and instinctively moved to the corner of the room where she felt, rightly or wrongly, that she was trapped.' The jury was told Mr Fourie came downstairs to see his wife walk over with the kettle and pour boiling water over Miss Stokes. She then poured the water over her head and chest, the court was told. Miss Stokes ran from the front of the house but Fourie chased her and pulled her hair. Miss Martin told the jury: 'Monika Fourie maintains that she has no memory of the events of that night.' The judge told that jury that Fourie was suffering from anxiety and depression and she was allowed to sit in the well of the court rather than the dock. The trial continues. A widower who knocked down and killed a pedestrian in a hit and run road crash after 'falling asleep at the wheel' wept as he was jailed. Arthur Yate, 69, had been suffering from severe fatigue due to working a week of night shifts at a supermarket to pay off 50,000 debts while doing errands in the day. But he ignored pleas from his family to cut down on his shifts and was awake for up to 24 hours when he mowed down Ian Whitworth, 80, while driving to work at Sainsbury's in Stockport, Greater Manchester. His Citroen Picasso collided with the pensioner as he walked over a pedestrian crossing after visiting his local pub and Yate sped away from the scene. Arthur Yate, left, 69, has been jailed for eight months after admitting killing pensioner Ian Whitworth, 80, right, in a hit and run crash The victim, whose wife was suffering from Alzheimer's, suffered fatal injuries and died in hospital an hour later. A court heard Yate tried to cover up his involvement in the tragedy by lying about damage to his car - and even tried to claim he thought a stone had hit the vehicle. But his car was traced due to CCTV and Mr Whitworth's DNA was found on the bodywork. Inquiries revealed Yate of Stockport had nine points on his driving licence after clocking up offences of speeding and jumping a red light. At Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester he sobbed as he admitted causing death by careless driving and failing to stop after an accident and was jailed for eight months. He was also banned from driving for 15 years and eight months. Passing sentence Judge Bernadette Baxter told him: 'This is a truly tragic case, a thoroughly decent, hardworking, devoted, family man has been taken and a thoroughly decent, hardworking, devoted, family man is facing imprisonment for his criminal carelessness. Yate, pictured with late wife Betty, sobbed as he was jailed, with the court told he had been suffering from fatigue by working supermarket night shifts to clear 50,000 debts Yate, pictured with his late wife, was tracked down by officers who saw his car on CCTV and found Mr Whitworth's DNA on his vehicle 'Nothing I can say or any sentence I impose will lessen the grief for the family, whose pain and loss is apparent nor will any sentence reflect the guilt, shame and remorse I genuinely accept you feel for your actions. 'But this sentence is about punishment and deterrence. You had previous convictions and those were warnings for you and your daughter also told you about your fatigue. Driving is a privilege, it's not a right. 'It's clear you just didn't see him, whether that was because you had nodded off or were in a world of your own because of grief and worried about your debts or fatigue, we will just never know. 'But you knew something significant and dreadful had happened, it may be you panicked or would not allow yourself to accept the enormity.' Earlier the court heard how Yate had inherited substantial business debts following the death of his disabled wife Betty in 2015 aged 67 following an infection. Prosecuting, Rob Hall said: 'The defendant was suffering significant fatigue and this could be the root cause of the collision. 'Since his wife died he didn't get restful sleep and cat napped. He was left with significant debts he was determined to pay off and worked as often as possible as a night shift shelf stacker at Sainsbury's. 'His normal hours were 10pm to 6am and would usually work three nights a week but would regularly take the equivalent of six nights - and in addition during daylight he would run errands for family and friends. 'The fatigue was noticed by his daughter who observed him drifting off into a glassy eyed state and nodding off. The court heard Yate, pictured with his late wife, had been warned by family about working too many hours 'His daughter suggested cutting back on the hours he was working at Sainsbury's especially bearing in mind his advancing years - but he didn't take that advice. 'During the week leading up to the collision he was staying at a house in Gorton but any sleep he had, had been disturbed by builders. 'The night before the collision he worked from 10pm to 6am into the Friday morning.' The court heard on the day of the crash on January 13, Yate was at a house waiting for the builders to arrive and then helped clear the property before running errands. He visited his daughter before driving to work again. The car was travelling at around 40mph in a 30mph zone in Cheadle Hulme at 10pm when it hit Mr Whitworth without braking. Yate then sped off to Sainsbury's where he falsely told work colleagues another motorist had driven into the back of him. During the shift he was said to be 'evasive' as members of staff showed him a news report about Mr Whitworth's death saying he had taken a different route to work. He later parked his car against a fence so the damage would not be noticeable. When police traced him Yate said: 'I thought I hit a stone or a stone hit the windscreen' but he later spoke of his debts after his wife's death and the worry keeping him awake. In interview he said his shift working had made him become very tired and he said he was tired when he set off on the fateful journey. He told police: 'I don't know whether I dropped off at the wheel' but added that the bang brought him back to his senses and he thought he was hit by a stone. He said he didn't think to look in the rear view mirror. Mr Whitworth's family were said to be 'devastated' by the tragedy. Yate had two offences of speeding on his licence from 2015 and 2016 and an offence failing to comply with traffic signals in November 2015. he has since surrendered his driving licence. His lawyer Adrian Farrow, said in mitigation: 'Lying behind these offences is an entirely separate family tragedy. His wife developed a business making handmade cards but a significant debt was incurred and with the interest charges it mounted up over the time. The court heard Yate, pictured with his late wife, told police he 'didn't know' if he fell asleep at the wheel but 'thought he had been hit by a stone when he came to his senses' 'When Mrs Yate died he had a debt of about 50,000 and he had to borrow money for his wife's funeral. 'He then set about clearing that debt and perhaps that together with his way of dealing with the extreme loss was to throw himself into the work he was doing. 'It's not coincidental that the date of this sad tragedy is very close to the date of Mrs Yate. No doubt that was a matter playing on his mind too. 'He was suffering cumulative fatigue borne over two years or more of him having little of no sleep and working tremendously hard. 'He finds it impossible in himself to explain why he didn't recognise the enormity of what happened. 'But the pattern and picture here is if a man driving himself as hard as he can in his life to avoid the tragedy of his own loss and in doing so he had caused the death of another man who's life has some parallels to Mr Yate himself.' The hero security guard who was shot during the Las Vegas massacre has gone into hiding after vanishing moments before he was scheduled to speak to the media. Jesus Campos is yet to be interviewed since being fired upon by Stephen Paddock on October 1 while on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel. He is thought to have saved lives by distracting the mass murderer as he was firing into a crowd at the Route 91 Harvest music festival. On Thursday, Campos was due to appear at a press conference after being given an award for his bravery, but he abruptly pulled out vanished. His disappearance came just hours after MGM Resorts International, which owns the Mandalay Bay, disputed the official timeline of the deadliest mass shooting in modern US history. The firm rejected any suggestion that hotel staff delayed calling 911 for six minutes after Paddock opened fire. On Thursday, Campos (pictured) was due to appear at a press conference after being given an award for his bravery, but he vanished Mandalay Bay security guard Jesus Campos (pictured for the first time since the Las Vegas massacre) visited a clinic on Thursday after vanishing moments before he was due before the media Campos (second from right) is shown accepting an award from the International Union of Security, Police and Fire Professionals of America on Monday The whereabouts of Campos (second from right) are unknown after he decided to ditch his interviews with the media His union representative said on Saturday that Campos was taken to a clinic shortly afterwards 'Right now I'm just concerned where my member is, and what his condition is. It's highly unusual. 'I'm hoping everything is OK with him and I'm sure MGM or the union will let [the media] know when we hear something,' David Hickey is the president of the Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America, told Fox 5 Vegas. But the man of the moment has still not appeared amid mounting evidence that he wishes to dodge the media. He canceled on Sean Hannity as well as CBS, CNN, ABC and NBC on Thursday while Hickey believed he was staying at a Vegas hotel. Campos was pictured for the first time since the massacre on October 10 as he accepted an award from his union. As music fans at the Route 91 Harvest festival fled, Campos alerted police to Paddock's whereabouts Jesus Campos is yet to be interviewed since being fired upon by Stephen Paddock (pictured) on October 1 while on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel Fox News' Sean Hannity tweeted that Campos cancelled his appearance on his show Thursday night According to the LA Times, a man was spotted in a white truck outside his home in northern Las Vegas on Sunday. The license plate was covered with a towel and, when asked, the driver said he had been hired to guard the house and stop the media getting into Campos's property. But he did not tell the paper who hired him. There are also signs reading 'No media on property' and 'No trespassing' outside Campos's home. Jaime Ruano, a neighbor of Campos's, said: 'He's a hero. And nobody knows where he is.' NBC reporter Craig Fiegener, meanwhile, has reported the presence of armed guards outside Campos's home. NEW TIMELINE This is the new timeline given out on Monday. 9:59pm: Campos approaches Paddock's room looking for an alarm going off at a door nearby - likely from the stairwell. He is shot at and injured. He immediately notifies hotel security. Stephen Schuck appears to back up this account 10:05pm: First shots fired by suspect. 10:12pm: First two officers arrive on the 31st floor. 10:15pm: The last shots are fired from the suspect for reasons unknown. 10:17pm: The first two officers arrive on the 32nd floor from the 31st. 10:18pm: Campos, who has been stricken for almost 20 minutes, tells police about Paddock's room. 10:26-10:30pm: With Paddock quiet, eight more cops arrive and they decide to evacuate the rooms on the floor. 10:55pm: Eight officers arrive in the stairwell next to the suspect's room and find the door tampered with and a camera on a room service cart outside; they decide to hold off. 11:20pm: Paddock's room is breached and police enter the room to find him dead. Advertisement ORIGINAL TIMELINE This is the original timeline of events given out by police last Wednesday. 10:05pm: Paddock fires his first shots on the crowd, as seen on CCTV. 10:12pm: First two officers arrive on the 31st floor and announce gunfire is coming from directly above them. 10:14pm: Guard Jesus Campos approaches Paddock's room and is shot, but only injured. 10:15pm: The last shots are fired from the suspect, per bodycam, due to Campos' intervention. 10:17pm: The first two officers arrive on the 32nd floor from the 31st. 10:18pm: Campos tells the cops he was shot and gives them the exact location of the suspect's room. 10:26-10:30pm: With Paddock quiet, eight additional cops arrive and they decide to evacuate the rooms on the floor. 10:55pm: Eight officers arrive in the stairwell next to the suspect's room and find the door tampered with and a camera on a room service cart outside; they decide to hold off. 11:20pm: Paddock's room is breached and police enter the room to find him dead. Advertisement It comes as confusion builds over what actually happened to him on the fateful night. Campos's disappearance came just hours after MGM Resorts International, which owns the Mandalay Bay, disputed the official timeline of the deadliest mass shooting in modern US history. The firm rejected any suggestion that hotel staff delayed calling 911 for six minutes after Paddock opened fire. The latest chronology raised a series of questions about whether officers were given information quickly enough to possibly have a chance to take out the gunman before he could carry out the bloodshed. But according to resort officials, it was no more than 40 seconds between the time Campos used his walkie talkie to call for help and Paddock opening fire on the crowd from two windows in his suite. Earlier in the investigation, police had said that Paddock shot through his door and wounded Campos after the guard distracted him from firing on the crowd out the windows. Camposs union president said the latest timeline does not dispute the assertion that the guard is still a hero, saving his coworker, possibly stopping additional shots, reported Stephanie Wash. Millions of families face a 500 hike in household bills if Britain leaves the EU without a Brexit deal, a report warns today. The Resolution Foundation said the poorest would be hit hardest by the imposition of World Trade Organisation (WTO) tariffs on imports to Britain from Europe. Currently huge amounts of goods such as food and cars are imported to Britain without any additional costs for crossing the border under single market rules. Leaving the EU means these rules must be replaced or WTO defaults will kick in. Millions of families face a 500 hike in household bills if Britain leaves the EU without a Brexit deal if tariffs impose price rises on groceries and other goods The Resolution Foundation said the average yearly household bill would rise by 260 in a 'no deal' scenario. And three million families could see price rises of more than 500. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said on Sunday British farmers would produce more food at home to limit the impact of any price increases. The Brexit department did not dispute the report's findings but insisted the Government was focused on securing a good deal with the EU. The impact on the poorest fifth of households would be 33 per cent greater than on the richest fifth, the joint report by the Resolution Foundation and Sussex University's UK Trade Policy Observatory found. REPORT: NO DEAL WOULD HIKE COSTS An analysis of a 'no deal' scenario where the UK imposes WTO 'most favoured nation' tariffs on the EU has forecast big price rises. The Resolution Foundation tariffs on dairy imports would rise by 45 per cent, meat products by 37 per cent, and clothing, footwear, drinks and tobacco by 10 per cent. These tariffs would feed through into significant price increases: Dairy up 8.1 per cent Meat up 5.8 per cent Cars and other vehicles up 5.5 per cent Advertisement It shows that walking away from deadlocked Brexit negotiations would be the 'worst possible outcome', the authors said. The analysis of a 'no deal' scenario where the UK imposes WTO 'most favoured nation' tariffs on the EU found that levies on dairy imports would rise by 45 per cent, meat products by 37 per cent, and clothing, footwear, drinks and tobacco by 10 per cent. These tariffs would feed through into significant price increases, with the average price of dairy goods rising by 8.1 per cent, meat products by 5.8 per cent and cars and other vehicles by 5.5 per cent, the report said. The hit to living standards would be greater for lower-income households as they tend to spend a greater share of their income on food and essential items of clothing which would be most affected by new tariffs. A different 'no deal' Brexit scenario, in which the UK unilaterally reduces all tariffs to zero, would reduce household spending by an average of 130 a year. Tariffs on vehicles adding five per cent to imports could be imposed if Britain leaves the EU without deal But this is unlikely to happen as it would reduce Britain's ability to strike free trade deals around the world, and expose some industries to 'sharp competitive pressures' as other countries would not be obliged to reduce their own tariffs. Stephen Clarke, economic analyst at the Resolution Foundation, said: 'The Government has said that while it wants a comprehensive trade agreement it is also preparing for a 'no deal' scenario when we leave the EU. 'Such an outcome - which could see the UK imposing tariffs on EU imports - would increase the annual shopping bills of millions of households by 500, with poorer families taking the biggest hit. 'While trade may not have been the biggest issue in the referendum, it is one that will affect the day-to-day living standards of every family in Britain. 'The Government must rightly continue to prioritise a comprehensive new trade agreement with the EU in order to avoid households having to fork out for a 'no deal' outcome through higher prices and squeezed households budgets.' Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said on Sunday British farmers would produce more food at home to limit the impact of any price increases Ilona Serwicka, research fellow at Sussex University, said: 'Our research shows that this (no deal) scenario will increase the cost of essential goods, such as food and clothes, which will impact most adversely on those households who already struggle to get food on the table and make ends meet. 'To avoid the real economic danger of a 'cliff-edge' scenario - that will see the cost of living for households up and down the country go up - the UK Government must realise that walking away from the negotiating table is the worst possible outcome.' Shadow Brexit minister Jenny Chapman said: 'This report is further evidence of how a no deal Brexit will hit family budgets and the potential dire consequences of the Government's chaotic handling of the Brexit negotiations. 'Britain crashing out of Europe without a deal is simply not a viable option. No deal risks price hikes in the shops as a result of extra charges on everyday items, such as food and drink. And yet, the only solution ministers have offered to this potential crisis is 'dig for no deal'. 'Theresa May must use this week's EU Council meeting to end the deadlock in Brexit negotiations and protect Britain from an economic cliff edge. That means agreeing strong transitional arrangements within the single market and a customs union.' A Department for Exiting the EU spokesman said: 'We want a deep and special future partnership with the European Union and we are optimistic about achieving this. 'It's in everyone's interests we get a free trade agreement that allows for the most frictionless trade in goods and services.' A Hamas prisoner in Israel has brutally attacked a prison guard with a screwdriver. CCTV footage from inside Nafha, a prison near the town of Mitzpe Ramon in southern Israel, shows an unnamed inmate attacking the guard, who also was not named. The video shows the guard turning his back from the prisoner, standing only a few feet away, to open a door. While the guard is doing this, the prisoner appears to slip a screwdriver from out of his sock and then run over to the guard and violently stab him. The guard reacts quickly, managing to protect his body. The inmate is seen running off but is said to have been restrained shortly afterwards, with the guard reported to have sustained only minor injuries. Palestine media have said that the prisoner, whose original offence was not reported, had been given an additional two years for his attack on the guard. He was said to be at the start of a two-year sentence. ahead of the incursion. It is believed that the prisoner was from Hamas - a fundamentalist Sunni-Islamic organisation that is in charge of the Gaza Strip. The organisation's militant wing is regarded as a terrorist organisation by Israel, the European Union and the United States. Palestinians have accused Israel of mishandling its prisoners and medical neglect of them. The prisoner catches the guard off balance and begins attacking him with the screwdriver he hid in his sock, pictured The guard is shocked but begins to deescalate the situation and attempts to get the screwdriver from the prisoner, pictured The prisoner, said to be from Hamas, is much bigger than the guard and seems to have the advantage in the violent battle that ensued, pictured Advertisement The bizarre 'Martian sky' phenomenon caused by Hurricane Ophelia convinced some Twitter users that the apocalypse was coming. Britain was cast in an eerie gloom yesterday as Saharan dust whipped across the Atlantic by Hurricane Ophelia shrouded the sun turning skies over the nation red. The storm is believed to have picked up dust from North Africa and debris from forest fires in Spain and Portugal as it travelled towards the UK. Skies over London were covered in a murky orange haze as the desert dust mixes with clouds, offering residents in the capital a stark contrast to the grey that usually greets them at this time of year. While there was much confusion about what was going on, many took to social media to predict the end of the world. BRISTOL: The storm is believed to have picked up dust from the Sahara and debris from forest fires in Spain and Portugal WESTMINSTER: The sky over central London is turned orange as the remains of Hurricane Ophelia whips up dust from the Sahara desert Robyn Letair tweeted a GIF of Will Smith in I Am Legend and wrote: 'When the sky is clearly signalling the beginning of the zombie apocalypse and your colleague is coughing like patient zero.' Courtney said: 'The sun is bright red and the sky is mustard yellow, this weather is the zombie apocalypse.' London Quest posted: 'Were used to everything at LQHQ even Zombie Apocalypses! But when #Ophelia turns the #London sky red, were like... #BattenDownTheHatches!' Another user remarked: 'It could be sand from the Sahara making the sky appear orange in the UK... OR It could be a sign that the zombie apocalypse is near.' Jake Francis joked: 'It's complete silence outside, zero birds and the sky is yellow. Either a storm is coming or a Zombie Apocalypse!' And Sam Hall added: 'Red sky at night, shepherd's delight. Weird, dark murky red glowing sun, dusty sky at 3pm, impending zombie apocalypse? #endoftheworld' BBC weather presenter Simon King also confirmed the red tinge was due to the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia bring tropical air and dust from the Sahara. He added that debris from Portugal and Spains forest fires were also playing a role in the reddish hue. Ophelia was also blamed for bringing a strange smell to British shores yesterday. People in Cornwall reported smelling burning candles or incense, with the whiff seemingly particularly strong in coastal areas. There were reports along the coast from Portreath to Hayle and a woman in Penzance said she could smell incense as the strong winds started to whip up around the town. LONDON: The capital's skyline is basked in an orange glow in a stark contrast to the usual grey weather Londoners are met with at this time of year LONDON: The Shard is clouded by an orange haze and the sun burns bright in the skies over central London today ISLE OF WIGHT: The sun comes through a thick haze and brings in a bad smell over Brading Downs on the Isle of Wight today A dead 'dragon' has been discovered by residents of a Chinese village who claim that the bizarre skeleton is proof that the mythical creature actually exists. The peculiarly long skeleton measures at least 60ft, has two incongruous little 'arms' jutting out in the centre and a head that looks suspiciously like a cow skull. It was found laid out in a field in Zhangjiakou City, in China's northern Hebei Province. Unlike dragons depicted in Western mythology, traditional Chinese dragons have no wings and fly by 'swimming' through the air much like how snakes slither along the ground. The anatomy of the strange skeleton thereby convinced some locals that the remains could indeed be a dragon. Footage taken by various witnesses at the scene shows dozens of villagers surrounding the suspected dragon remains. The villagers are not sure what to make of the skeleton, but a superstitious few seemed convinced that they were indeed looking at the remains of the mythical creature. Netizens on Chinese social media said the ribby skeleton appeared to have been placed there intentionally, perhaps as a prop for a movie, but so far no one has come forwards to confirm these claims. On the website, www.wukong.com, people wrote that the skeleton looked like a movie prop made with cow or sheep bones. The 'dragon' head looks remarkably like a cow skull and some people have claimed online that the many bones that make up its body look like cow and sheep bones A writer on the website also posted a picture of locals 'riding' the creature and said that the picture was proof that they knew it was a prank. They wrote: 'The villagers were riding on it and having pictures taken, they showed no respect so it was obvious that they knew what it was.' Local authorities in Zhangjiakou have also yet to release a statement about the so-called dragon remains. Regardless of the skeleton's origins, the video has been viewed more than 10 million times already so it is proving a popular hoax. A moped-riding knifeman stabbed a balaclava-clad victim to death outside a Tube station in West London. The attack took place outside Parsons Green station, where 30 people were injured in a terror attack last month. The 20-year-old was heard screaming for help as he lay injured in the road yesterday evening. He was treated by medics but died at the scene in front of his brother and sister who had rushed to be by his side, witnesses said. Two other men were taken to hospital with stab wounds after reports of a second altercation between the moped rider and a third man. The attack took place outside Parsons Green station, where 30 people were injured in a terror attack last month The attack happened near the Cote Brasserie restaurant in Parsons Green Lane shortly after 7.35pm yesterday evening The attack happened near the Cote Brasserie restaurant in Parsons Green Lane shortly after 7.35pm yesterday evening. One witness, who wished to remain anonymous, told the London Evening Standard: 'I heard a load of shouting. There were two guys being chased up the road by a guy on a moped. He was on the pavement trying to run them off. 'The guy on the moped then drove on ahead under the bridge and started shouting 'I'm going to f****** do you. The guy who was killed was shouting back. 'The victim had a face mask on, like a balaclava. Then the guy on the moped has jumped off. They've had an altercation and he's put the other guy on the floor and stabbed him. 'I thought he had just punched him. I didn't realise the man had been stabbed until I heard him shouting out 'please help me.' 'He was just shouting out and there were loads of people coming out of the station paying no interest. Everyone was just looking.' The witness added: 'He was shouting help for ages when he was lying on the floor. His brother and sister turned up and were trying to help. I heard someone say 'he's breathing again', then about ten minutes later I heard screaming, "he's dead, he's dead." Parsons Green Lane and the station were both closed by police while an investigation took place Witnesses said the driver ran down Parsons Green Lane before being stopped by a third man outside Parsons Fish Bar. Both men were reportedly stabbed in the incident. Police said two men were taken to hospital with minor injuries. The arrested man was taken to hospital and has since been discharged. He remains in custody, officers added. Officers said they did not believe the stabbings were terror-related. Holly Eddleston told the Standard she was near Parsons Green at the time of the stabbing when a policeman told her to leave the park immediately as a helicopter would soon be landing. She said: 'I was on Parsons Green walking my dog when a policeman ran up to us and said to leave the park immediately so that a helicopter could land. 'I walked towards the station, there were lots of police cars and a section cordoned off with fabric - apparently somebody being resuscitated. 'Sounds of a girl screaming and crying were piercing. 'All of the roads in Parsons have been closed, including my own. Undercover police are searching the area looking down all drains with torches and helicopters circling also. Extremely sad.' London Ambulance Service confirmed last night that one man died at the scene and two other victims were taken to hospital. An LAS spokeswoman said it received a call at 7.38pm to an incident near the station. She said: 'We sent two ambulance crews, a first responder in a car and an incident response officer to the scene. A team from London's Air Ambulance was also dispatched to the scene by car. 'We treated three patients at the scene. We have taken two patients to hospital as a priority. Sadly one patient died at the scene.' Parsons Green Lane and the station were both closed by police while an investigation took place. Anyone who witnessed the incident or is possession of mobile phone footage should contact the HMCC on their incident room number of 0208 785 8099. To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Footage from the scene appear to show a crowd of people (left) huddling round an injured victim near a dry cleaners Campaigners for missing toddler William Tyrrell have submitted a petition demanding a coronial inquest be opened into his case. William was three years old when he disappeared from his foster grandmother's house in Kendall, on New South Wales' Mid North Coast, on September 12, 2014. Advocacy group Walking for Warriors hand-delivered the petition to the NSW Coroner's Court on Tuesday, with 18,000 signatures from people in favour of an inquest. Scroll down for video William was three-years-old when he disappeared from his foster grandmother's house in Kendall, on New South Wales' Mid North Coast, on September 12, 2014 The petition called for Coroner Michael Barnes to investigate the disappearance of William 'as a matter of urgency'. Speaking outside the Coroner's Court on Tuesday, Walking for Warriors advocate Carol Walker said 'we want to have the case looked at with fresh eyes'. 'It needs to be looked at from day one, from the day William went missing. The police may have missed something, some important detail,' she told Nine News. 'Someone has to stand up. A missing child is everybody's business if we don't call for a coronial inquiry, who will? Nobody else seems to be wanting it.' The petition called for Coroner Michael Barnes to investigate the disappearance of William 'as a matter of urgency' Speaking outside the Coroner's Court on Tuesday, Walking for Warriors advocate Carol Walker (pictured) said 'we want to have the case looked at with fresh eyes' William (pictured) was three-years-old when he went missing from his foster grandmother's house in Kendall, NSW William's biological mother Karlie Tyrrell Walking for Warriors wrote to the Coroner demanding an inquest last year, but Coroner Barnes said it was too early to launch one. New South Wales Police also pushed back against the inquest saying it was too early because the initial investigation into William's disappearance was ongoing. Walking for Warriors fought against a Department of Family and Community Services injunction which made it illegal to reveal William was in foster care when he went missing. A Supreme Court of NSW judge ruled in favour of the advocacy group in August, noting William's status as a foster child could be revealed because of 'the tragic probability that (he) is no longer alive'. There is no suggestion William's foster or biological families were involved in his disappearance (William's birth mother Karlie is pictured here in a social media photograph) A $1 million reward for information leading to the recovery of William's remains There is no suggestion that William's foster carers or his biological family were involved in his disappearance. A $1 million reward for information leading to the recovery of William's remains. The petition delivered to the court on Tuesday urged Coroner Barnes to consider the inquest into murdered Queensland boy Daniel Morcombe. An inquest into Daniel's disappearance was launched in 2010, five years after he was abducted on the Sunshine Coast. The inquest was pivotal in the arrest of Brett Peter Cowan, who was found guilty of the 13-year-old's murder. Police arrive on day two to search for evidence of missing boy William Tyrrell, near Bonny Hills on the NSW mid-north coast The body of a toddler killed by her mother who was obsessed with a motorcycle-riding 'wolfman' and aliens could be buried in bushland on the NSW Central Coast. NSW Police considered searching the area after the woman's notebooks were seized by detectives and an entry dated 2001 was found which read 'Killed Snapper Point'. Snapper Point is part of the Lake Munmorah State Conservation Area south of Newcastle. Supreme Court Justice Robert Allan Hulme in Newcastle on Tuesday formally ordered the woman, 45, be released because she was not a danger to the community. Scroll down for video A 45-year-old mother (pictured) who killed her toddler was not convicted of murder because she was suffering schizophrenia at the time He accepted psychiatric evidence that the mother of six had been in a stable condition for many years being treated with a potent, but low, dose of antipsychotic medication. The woman, who can't be named for legal reasons, pleaded not guilty to murdering her daughter aged between 16 and 28 months between December 25, 2000 and December 25, 2001. The judge in August found she had killed the toddler but was not guilty of murder due to mental illness. It was revealed she'd been suffering from a form of schizophrenia at the time and didn't know what she was doing was wrong. She pleaded not guilty to murdering her daughter (pictured) aged between 16 and 28 months between December 25, 2000 and December 25, 2001 The girl's body has never been found. Justice Hulme was cautious about drawing conclusions from the Snapper Point diary entry because others had been 'nonsensical or impossible to follow'. One psychiatrist believed the entries were evidence of thought disorder. But police did consider searching the forest after the notebooks were found in 2004. However, the area was too large, and the woman claimed her daughter was alive and being looked after by an elderly couple. The girl's body has never been found. NSW Police considered searching Snapper Point because of one of the woman's diary entries which was dated 2001 Justice Hulme on Tuesday referred the woman to the Mental Health Review Tribunal to determine on-going treatment and rule if she should be banned from taking drugs and alcohol. The woman's judge-alone trial was told she talked of having to go to the top of a hill to be taken home by aliens but, if the 'wolfman' got there at the same time, she'd have to sacrifice a child by slitting its throat. That would keep the wolfman busy so she could be with the aliens. The woman, who liked to be called Rainbow, claimed to be a high priestess and would wear long flowing robes with a pentagram, a witchcraft symbol. She believed she was related to English royalty. Despite the mother's deteriorating mental health after her daughter's birth in August 1999, Department of Community Services officers failed to seek treatment for her even though they visited regularly. Three of her children had already been taken away because the woman couldn't cope, and were being looked after by her mother, who the woman believed was a member of a satanic cult and a pedophile. Psychiatrist Dr Stephen Allnutt suggested one possible motive for killing her daughter was to protect the child from her own mother. A second psychiatrist, Dr Olav Nielssen, agreed. Dr Nielsen said mentally ill mothers might abandon a child with no hope of survival or allow them to drown. Both psychiatrists believed the woman might not remember the act of killing but would be aware the girl was dead given she had to get rid of the body. Advertisement This antelope's day went from bad to worse when it was chased by wild dogs and then stalked by a crocodile - before being attacked by an angry hippo. The young animal fled into a waterhole when its herd was chased by a pack of ravenous wild dogs at Ngala Private Game Reserve in South Africa. Far from reaching safety, another predator lay in wait with a crocodile lurking just below the surface ready to launch its own attack. The frightened calf then bounded through the water - only to run towards the snapping jaws of an enraged hippo. In pursuit: A terrified antelope had to sprint for its life after the herd it was in was chased by a pack of ravenous wild dogs in South Africa But after jumping into a waterhole in Ngala Private Game Reserve, it was immediately stalked by a crocodile lurking just beneath the surface (pictured) The young antelope escaped the jaws of the crocodile only to run into the path of a furious hippo which tried repeatedly to bite the frightened animal Eventually, the antelope managed to run off - and waited in the water for the wild dogs to leave. The dramatic photographs were taken by 39-year-old safari guide Daryl Dell. He said 'The hippo lurched and attacked the waterbuck calf with aggression and tried to bite it, probably because it was in their territory. Bid for freedom: The antelope's day went from bad to worse having first had to sprint away from a deadly pack of wild dogs (pictured) The tiny animal was forced to leap into a waterhole to try to escape the ravenous dogs - but there was more danger around the corner Wrong turn: The antelope swam away from a crocodile's deadly jaws but was forced to make another swift u-turn after running into this enraged hippo After repeated attempts to bite the antelope, the hippo gave up, allowing the poor animal to run off to safety 'A raft of hippopotamus had already been agitated by the playful and cheeky nature of the dogs, who had earlier taunted the hippos, and one individual clearly had enough. 'It made its intentions clear by storming the scene and causing a commotion, which scared off the crocodile and saw the dogs slam on their brakes. 'A standoff ensued for a while with the waterbuck in the safety of the water, the wild dogs finally got bored and moved away into the woodland, allowing the waterbuck to escape.' Stand-off: Despite the danger posed by a crocodile and an angry hippo in the water, the antelope refused to move until the wild dogs had gone Evasive: The young antelope jumped into the water, not knowing that a crocodile was lurking just below the surface The wild dogs waited around in the hope that the antelope would leave the water - but they eventually got bored and wandered off Waiting game: Three antelope stand in water as they wait for a wild dogs to leave the area. The pictures were captured in Ngala Private Game Reserve, South Africa Counter-attack: The antelope made a break for freedom after being surrounded by a pack of wild dogs in the game reserve A devastated six-year-old girl has been left without her mother after she was forced out of the country in a 'unfair and absurd' visa row. Kayla I'anson has cried every day and every night since her mother, Wanna, 44, was sent back to her native Bangkok in Thailand. Kayla's father, Andrew, 54, from Sevenoaks in Kent, said the family had been left heartbroken by the Government's regulations which have split the family. The rules, introduced in 2012 and upheld by the Supreme Court this February, mean foreign spouses can only remain in Britain if their partners are earning more 18,600 a year. Andrew l'anson said his family had been been ripped apart after his wife Wanna was sent back to Thailand over a visa row. Pictured, Mr and Mrs l'anson with their daughter, Kayla Mr I'anson, who returned to the UK from Thailand in May with his wife and daughter, said:'I have a wife who cries everyday because she misses her daughter and I have a daughter who cries all day and night because she misses her mum,' he said. 'I have paid tax and put money into the country and I get treated like a third class citizen in my own country. My daughter is British. Does she not have a right to be with her mother?' The family moved back to Britain so that Kayla could go to school in England. But Mrs l'anson was only given a six-month visitor's visa which ran out last week, forcing her back to Bangkok. The couple, who had been living in Thailand for the last eight years, also failed to qualify for a spouse's visa because they do not have savings of more than 62,500. 'I understand why these rules may have been introduced but my marriage is not a sham marriage. We have been married for 10 years and have a child together who has a British passport. It just seems very unfair,' he said. Kayla has cried every day and every night since her mother was sent back to her native Bangkok in Thailand Mr I'anson said since his wife's departure he had also been forced to give up his 15,000 job as a warehouseman because the hours did not fit in with school pick-ups and drop-offs, something she would normally have done. He said he had also written to Sevenoaks MP, Sir Michael Fallon asking him to fight the 'cruel way British citizens are treated.' 'Maybe instead of making life a living hell for my family, why not give us a chance? I had a job, my wife could have her old job back and we could be a happy family. But this is not the case. We are split up and life is a living hell,' he said. British actress Andrea Riseborough, who starred in Birdman, has claimed she witnesses 'sexual inappropriacy' almost every week. Riseborough, who was doing press interviews to promote her latest movie The Death of Stalin, was asked about her views on the ongoing sex scandal involving producer Harvey Weinstein. The movie mogul is facing allegations from more than two dozen actresses including A-listers such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie and Mira Sorvino. Scroll down for video British actress Andrea Risborough, left, said she witnessed act of sexually inappropriate behavior almost every week having spoken out following the scandal involving shamed Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, right Riseborough admitted she faces 'sexual inappropriacy' almost on a weekly basis while acting Speaking to Five News, Riseborough said: 'Sexual inappropriacy in my industry? Absolutely. Almost every week. 'It makes it so just difficult sometimes to get out of bed because you have to feel like you bolster yourself. You know those bumpers in the two lanes when you go bowling? I go out there with two of them, metaphorically, every day.' She added: 'Until youre, as a woman, in that situation, the pressure that you feel and that awkwardness and the inappropriate comments. The way that makes you feel, what it does to you, eventually its psychologically very damaging.' Riseborough also appeared in Black Mirror and also played Joseph Stalin's daughter Svetlana in The Death of Stalin. Weinstein was attacked by fellow Hollywood mogul Jeffery Katzenberg, who described the shamed film boss as a 'monster'. Riseborough, pictured, made the comments while promoting her latest movie, The Death of Stalin, where she plays the evil dictator's only daughter Svetlana in the comedy Since the allegations against Weinstein surfaced earlier this month, he has been shunned by Hollywood. Katzenberg said: 'Make no mistake about it, he is a monster. The problem is there is a pack of wolves; he is not a lone actor in this. That is what we really need to find a way to deal with.' He continued: 'I am a hundred percent certain Harvey Weinstein was not alone in this.' A Ghanaian asylum seeker accused of raping a German woman while forcing her boyfriend to watch has been branded a danger to society by a psychiatric expert. The man - only identified as Eric X - is accused of raping a 23-year-old woman after spotting the couple camping in a nature reserve near Bonn, west Germany in April. Speaking during the trial in a Bonn district court, the psychiatrist who interviewed Eric X, 32, said he completely lacks empathy and is highly likely to re-offend. Accused: Alleged rapist Eric X, 32, from Ghana, pictured in court today in Bonn, Germany is a 'danger to society' according to a psychiatric expert The attack took place on April 2, shortly after midnight. The couple were already asleep when Eric X allegedly cut through the tarpaulin, threatened them with a tree saw and ordered them to hand over their valuables - six euros (5.35) and a music box. After robbing them he is said to have dragged the 23-year-old woman outside, where he raped her and forced her boyfriend, 26, to watch. German media have reported that the boyfriend's call to police was initially considered a joke. The suspect was arrested soon after in nearby Siegburg after a man recognised him from a composite picture of the sex attacker. Yesterday, psychiatric expert Dr Wolfgang Schwachula testified in court and shared his observations about the failed Ghanaian asylum seeker he examined before the start of the trial and observed throughout the court case. Defiant: Despite being asked to stay quiet by his lawyers, the defendant called the 23-year-old woman who he allegedly raped a 'prostitute' Dr Schwachula said that Eric X. is fully criminally liable despite a combined personal disorder of emotional instability and narcissism. According to the psychiatric expert, the Ghanaian migrant is not capable of empathy and abuses others for his purposes. Dr Schwachula said this makes Eric X 'highly dangerous to society', putting his risk of re-offending at between 40 to 60 per cent. Eric X., who has appeared in court with both his hands and feet chained due to his extremely aggressive behaviour, has made several accusations against the victim and the prosecution. When a DNA analyst explained to the court that the saliva sample taken from Eric X. matched with the sperm found in the genital area of the victim, the accused dismissed the evidence. Eric X. said: 'That cannot be, how does my DNA come to the woman?' An e-fit of the accused which was put out by the police. He was captured after a passer-by recognised him from the e-fit. Pictured right: The Siegaue Nature Reserve The refugee was arrested after being accused of dragging a young woman from her tent and raping her while she was on camping with her boyfriend at in the Siegaue Nature Reserve (pictured) On a separate occasion during the trial, he said out loud in court: 'If the girl claims she has been raped, she must be a prostitute. 'All who help her in the lie are filthy people.' Lawyer Gudrun Roth, who represents the 23-year-old student, said that it is 'always a slap in the face, if someone who has experienced such a thing is mocked even further.' Both of the victims, from Stuttgart, south-west Germany are currently undergoing psychological care as according to local media they are still heavily traumatised. Following his arrest it emerged that the man had been served notice by the German authorities ten days before the attack, informing him he would face deportation to Italy as his asylum application had been rejected. He arrived in Italy in January and his asylum application was immediately rejected but by then he had made the journey to Kassel in Germany. The suspect lived for a time in asylum seeker housing accommodation in the town of Sankt Augustin, near Bonn. But local media have questioned why he was not immediately deported. Eric X. has been charged with aggravated rape and predatory blackmail. A mortified student has posted a hilarious video of her father's 'horrendous' dad dancing at a trendy club night in Belfast. The dad in question is 52-year-old Marshall Sharpe, who can be seen in the video getting down with the sound of the electronic duo Bicep. He's jumping, beer in hand, with the occasional finger point that is what is likely to really drive the embarrassment of his daughter, Holly, even further. Holly, a student at Newcastle University, said she thought her dad was joking when he said he wanted to go to the night, called Shine, at Belfast's Usher Hall. But he did go and without Holly, who was at home studying that night. She said: 'I was on my Snapchat and I saw videos of an old guy dancing and was laughing - until I realised it was my dad. They [Holly's parents] didn't tell me that they went.' She added: 'To say the least I was raging and very jealous. He loves to party but doesn't go to those events very often - he's up for anything and his dancing is horrendous, but he thinks he's class' The video of Mr Sharpe has gone viral and retweeted by nearly 4,000 social media users and liked by over 14,000. Marshall Sharpe, 52, got VIP entrance to the Shine event at Belfast's Usher Hall. He took the opportunity to get down with the youth of today, pictured Dancing through the night Marshall Sharpe, pictured, showed up on his daughter's Snapshot to her surprise Marshall Sharpe dancing to electronic duo Bicep at the Shine event at Belfast's Usher Hall, pictured A thief who stole $1,000 from a war veteran has apologised and said he would 'pay him back' if he had a job. Jamie David Brown went to 94-year-old Ernest Haynes home in Pinjarra, south of Perth, earlier this month under the pretence of asking for a glass of milk. But once inside he stole Mr Haynes' wallet, with the 21-year-old pleading guilty to the theft in court on Tuesday. West Australian Jamie David Brown (pictured) who stole $1,000 from a war veteran, has apologised and said he would 'pay him back' if he had a job The 21-year-old went to home of 94-year-old Ernest Haynes (pictured) earlier this month under the pretence of asking for a glass of milk but instead took his wallet, the court heard Mr Haynes was unaware Brown had taken the wallet, which had $1,000 in it at the time from his pension. 'He came in and said "I only want a cup of milk, I have run out of milk",' he told The West Australian. 'I got a bottle and poured some for him. We talked a little bit and then he said, "I better go", and he shook my hand and away he went.' Brown was caught on Mr Hayne's neighbour's security footage arriving and leaving on a bicycle. Mr Haynes was unaware Brown had taken the wallet when he came asking for the milk (a re-enactment pictured), with it said to have $1,000 in it at the time from his pension Appearing outside court, the 21-year-old said that he knew his actions were 'disrespectful' but could not provide a reason why he took the money. He remains on bail and was ordered to stay away from Mr Haynes unless taking part in official victim-mediation. Mr Haynes did not accept the young man's apology however, instead telling 7News he was a 'mongrel'. Brown is due to be sentenced for the theft in December. A new kind of rice that can grow as tall as 2.2 meters (7ft 2in) has been introduced. The so-called 'giant rice' is expected to feed more people as scientists claimed its yield could be 50 per cent higher than ordinary rice, according to a report on China's People's Daily Online today. Experts from the China said they had spent 10 years cultivating the new grain, which was unveiled on October 16. A researcher in China poses with the new 'giant rice', which could grow up to 2.2 meters A team of researchers from the Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, have planted and harvested the 'giant rice' on an experimental field, according to the People's Daily Online report, citing Xinhua News Agency. The experimental field is located in Jinjing Township of Changsha County, central China's Hunan Province. The new type of rice is said to be 1.8 metres tall on average (5ft 10in), with the greatest ones reaching 2.2 metres. Xia Xinjie, a researching involved in the project, expected the yield of the 'giant rice' to surpass 11.5 tonnes per hectare. Mr Xia said the per-hectare yield is 50 per cent higher than the ordinary rice. Mr Xia added that experts had harvested more than 500 grains from a single 'giant rice' stalk. The Chinese scientists are said to have used a series of new technologies to cultivate the new rice, including mutation induction and hybridisation between different kinds of wild rice. A Chinese farmer harvests Xiangliangyou 900, the hybrid rice that has set the world record for its high per-hectare yield. The new rice was invented by a team led by renowned Yuan Longpin The 'giant rice' is due to greatly benefit China which is facing a shortage of farmers and a growing population. 'It is expected that 60 per cent more rice will need to be produced in 2030 compared to 1995,' Yuan Longping, a renowned agricultural scientist, told People's Daily Online, in an interview last month. Mr Yuan added: 'Currently, one hectare for rice production provides food for 27 people. By 2050, one hectare will have to support 43 people.' A soldier in Thailand was arrested after allegedly stalking his pregnant wife and shooting her dead in the middle of a supermarket after she asked for a divorce. Sirinporn Chumboonchu, 40, split from her husband, Pichet, 41, earlier this month after learning that her spouse was having an affair with a mistress. She fled their home in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, to stay with her family 400 miles northeast in the Udon Thani province. But Pichet followed her, and is accused of shooting her three times in the back in front of shoppers at a local supermarket on Friday. Pichet Chumboonchu, 41, is accused of shooting his wife Sirinporn (pictured), 40, dead in front of shoppers at a supermarket in the Udon Thani province of Thailand. Sirinporn had split from her husband earlier this month after learning that he was having an affair with a mistress She fled their home in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, to stay with her family 400 miles northeast in the Udon Thani province. Pictured above, customers rush to help the woman after she was shot at the supermarket Upon following Sirinporn to Udon Thani, Pichet found her on Friday pushing a trolley at a Makro store around 2pm. The soldier allegedly blasted his wife three times in the back because she refused to reconcile with him. She died later in hospital. Pichet was shot in the chest during the incident by his own gun, but police believe he did not attempt to kill himself and that it jammed while he was letting off rounds. Stray bullets also hit a seven-year-old boy, Kumpoon Poonitanitrat, in the foot and shop assistant Phothisawan Rudda, 32, in the chest. The shop assistant is still in a critical condition at Udon Thani Hospital. Pichet (pictured) was shot in the chest during the incident by his own gun, but police believe he did not attempt to kill himself and that it jammed while he was letting off rounds Pichet (pictured) is recovering from his own self-inflicted gun wound under police guard at the hospital Terrified witnesses described the 'panic' as Pichet opened fire with a 9mm automatic handgun in the packed store. Tung Kottanasorn said: 'Everybody screamed. Some ran away and some people laid on the floor. 'There were people running over to the woman to try to save her and do chest pumps. 'This was the scariest thing that has ever happened to me. It was like an American movie. I though there was a robbery.' Sirinporn was pronounced dead in hospital a short time after the shooting. Pichet is recovering from his own self-inflicted gun wound under police guard at the hospital. Stray bullets from the gun (pictured) also hit a seven-year-old boy, Kumpoon Poonitanitrat, in the foot and shop assistant Phothisawan Rudda, 32, in the chest Col Suchat Uthayo, Inspector of Udon Thani Provincial Police, said that the soldier had been arrested on suspicion of murder and carrying a firearm in public. He said: 'We will prosecute the husband for the deliberate killing of his wife and for carrying fire arms in public. 'He was using a 9mm automatic weapon. The cause of the argument is that the wife discovered her husband had a "small" wife. 'She did not want to reconcile with him. She wanted to stay with her family and she asked for a divorce.' An immigrant who sped off after almost killing a pedestrian with his car said he didn't stop because it wasn't the done thing in his home country of Indonesia. A judge slammed Paulus Rozali for his argument when he appeared at the Downing Centre Court in Sydney on Tuesday. Rozali ran down a 68-year-old man in Wiley Park, Sydney's southwest, causing the man to suffer bleeding to the brain, a fractured skull and fractured femur. Scroll down for video A judge slammed Paulus Rozali (pictured) for his argument when he appeared at the Downing Centre Court in Sydney on Tuesday Rozali was disqualified from driving for three years and ordered to complete 125 hours community service when he was sentenced in May. He appealed the sentence because he thought it was too severe, Seven News reported. Rozali argued he didn't stop because drivers in Indonesia would be attacked by witnesses if they ever stopped. He also said he didn't stop because it wasn't stated in the NSW driver's manual. Rozali ran down a 68-year-old man in Wiley Park, Sydney's southwest, causing the man to suffer bleeding to the brain, a fractured skull and fractured femur CCTV footage captured the moment Rozali slammed into the 68-year-old before speeding off Judge Paul Conlon slammed Rozali for his argument, saying 'it doesn't have to be'. 'It's basic common sense. When you hit someone, you stop and render assistance,' Judge Conlon said. While Judge Conlon acknowledged Rozali was remorseful, he said failing to stop and help was a serious crime. Judge Conlon said the original sentence handed down to Rozali in May was lenient, and dismissed his appeal. Rozali will be disqualified from driving until 2020. Many were young, powerless and afraid to speak out in case their careers were ruined. For nearly three decades their accusations remained bottled up, some suppressed by pay-offs. More than 30 women have now come forward with allegations of sexual harassment against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, the man once described as 'God' of the film industry. The accusations, including from some of the world's most famous actresses, range from inappropriate massages to rape. Here is a list of those who have come forward so far. Kate Beckinsale In an Instagram post the Underworld star said Weinstein made a move on her when she was just 17. 'When I arrived reception told me to go to his room. He opened the door in his bathrobe. I was incredibly naive and young and it did not cross my mind that this older, unattractive man would expect me to have any sexual interest in him. After declining alcohol and announcing that I had school in the morning I left, uneasy but unscathed. A few years later he asked me if he had tried anything with me in that first meeting.I realized he couldn't remember if he had assaulted me or not.' Teen assault: Kate Beckinsale says Weinstein tried to ply her with alcohol and met her in his bathrobe when she was just 17 Gwyneth Paltrow The star said that when she was 22, Weinstein touched her and suggested having joint massages in a hotel bedroom before she started shooting the 1996 Jane Austen adaptation Emma. She told the New York Times: 'I was a kid, I was signed up, I was petrified'. Paltrow (pictured with Weinstein in 2002) told the New York Times that when she was 22 Weinstein touched her and suggested having joint massages in the bedroom She said she told her then boyfriend Brad Pitt about the incident and he confronted the mogul. She said Weinstein then told her not to tell anyone and she feared getting fired. Gwyneth Paltrow, 45, is an American actress, singer, and food writer who made her name starring in Seven (1995) and Emma (1996). Angelina Jolie The actress told the New York Times she had to turn down advances from Weinstein in 1998 and chose never to work with him again. She said she warned other women about him. She said: 'I had a bad experience with Harvey Weinstein in my youth, and as a result, chose never to work with him again and warn others when they did.' Angelina Jolie, 42, is cited as Hollywood's highest-paid actress. She made her screen debut as a child alongside her father, Jon Voight, in Lookin' to Get Out (1982). Jolie (pictured speaking ahead of a screening of her new film In the Land of Blood and Honey) told the New York Times she had to turn down advances from Weinstein in 1998 Cara Delevingne The model wrote on her Instagram page about a meeting with Weinstein in which he 'asked her to kiss another woman.' She wrote: 'As soon as we were alone he began to brag about all the actresses he had slept with and how he had made their careers and spoke about other inappropriate things of a sexual nature. He then invited me to his room. I quickly declined and asked his assistant if my car was outside. She said it wasn't and wouldn't be for a bit and I should go to his room. Delevigne wrote on her Instagram page about a meeting with Weinstein in which he 'asked her to kiss another woman.' 'At that moment I felt very powerless and scared but didn't want to act that way hoping that I was wrong about the situation. When I arrived I was relieved to find another woman in his room and thought immediately I was safe. He asked us to kiss and she began some sort of advances upon his direction. I swiftly got up and asked him if he knew that I could sing. And I began to sing....i thought it would make the situation better....more professional....like an audition....i was so nervous. After singing I said again that I had to leave.He walked me to the door and stood in front of it and tried to kiss me on the lips. I stopped him and managed to get out of the room'. Cara Delevigne, 25, is an English fashion model and actress. She signed with Storm Model Management after leaving school in 2009. Eva Green Green's mother says Weinstein sexually harassed her during a meeting at his suite in Paris. The Bond Girl, 37, managed to escape however after being summoned to the movie mogul's hotel room, her mother Marlene Jobert said in a radio interview on Friday. 'He operated with her the exact same way he acted with all the others, under the pretext of a professional meeting, of a script that had to get to her with a nice part into the bargain,' said Jobert. 'Since his office was also in his hotel suite, she [Eva] followed him, and the exact same thing happened to her as to the others. She managed to escape, but he threatened to destroy her professionally.' Jobert added: '[It was] the usual scenario, the same pattern he used for all the other victims.' Weinstein allegedly harassed French actress Eva Green in his suite in Paris Lea Seydoux The French actress accused the mogul of jumping on her and trying to kiss her. She wrote in The Guardian: 'We were talking on the sofa when he suddenly jumped on me and tried to kiss me. I had to defend myself. He's big and fat, so I had to be forceful to resist him. He tried more than once. This was never going to be about work. He had other intentions I could see that very clearly. All throughout the evening, he flirted and stared at me as if I was a piece of meat. The French actress (pictured in Spectre) accused the mogul of jumping on her and trying to kiss her 'It was hard to say no because he's so powerful. I'm an actress and he's a producer. We are in the same industry, so its impossible to avoid him. I've seen how he operates: the way he looks for an opening. The way he tests women to see what he can get away with. That's the most disgusting thing. Everyone knew what Harvey was up to and no one did anything. It's unbelievable that he's been able to act like this for decades and still keep his career.' Lea Seydoux, 35, starred in Bond film Spectre and was nominated for the Cesar Award for Best Actress for her role as a lady-in-waiting to Marie Antoinette in the film Farewell, My Queen (2012). Minka Kelly The Friday Night Lights star said she met Weinstein at an event and soon after was asked by her agent if she would be willing to meet him at his hotel room to discuss her career. Kelly said that she agreed to the meeting but refused to go to Weinstein's room, and instead met him at the restaurant inside his hotel with an assistant. 'He bulls*** me for 5 minutes re: movies he could put me in, then asked the assistant to excuse us,' said Weinstein. 'As she walked away, he said, 'I know you were feeling what I was feeling when we met the other night' and then regaled me with offers of a lavish life filled with trips around the world on private planes etc. 'IF I would be his girlfriend.' Kelly posted a photo of a cross stitch alongside her post that read: 'Boys will be Boys.' The second 'boys' was crossed out at the bottom however, and stitched in was 'held accountable for their f***ing actions.' Kelly claimed the alleged encounter was the day-to-day b***shit of being an actress.' Minka Kelly said she met Weinstein at an event and soon after was asked by her agent if she would be willing to meet him at his hotel room to discuss her career Tara Subkoff The actress claims Weinstein sexually harassed her when she was up for a part in one of his movies in the 1990s. She told Variety: 'That night I was offered the role, and I went out to a premiere after party that was also at. 'He motioned for me to come over to him, and then grabbed me to sit me on his lap. I was so surprised and shocked I couldn't stop laughing because it was so awkward.' She said he could then feel him getting an erection. 'It was implied that if I did not comply with doing what he asked me to do that I would not get the role that I had already been informally offered,' she added. 'I laughed in his face as I was in shock and so uncomfortable. I left the party right after that.' After denying his advances, Subkoff claims she was stripped of the part. Tara Subkoff claims Weinstein sexually harassed her when she was up for a part in one of her movies in the 1990s. She is pictured in 2017 Asia Argento The Italian actress has accused Weinstein of forcibly performing oral sex on her when she was 21. She told the New Yorker: 'He terrified me, and he was big. It wouldn't stop. It was a nightmare.' She said she went on to have consensual sex with him over the years that followed. She documented the alleged attack in her 2000 film Scarlet Diva. Asia Argento is an Italian actress, singer, model, and director, best known for the role of Yelena in the action film xXx (2002). Asia Argento (left with Weinstein during 2004 Cannes Film Festival) accused Weinstein of forcibly performing oral sex on her when she was 21 Zoe Brock Model Zoe Brock was 23 when she allegedly had to lock herself in a hotel bathroom to escape Weinstein's advances. She wrote on Medium: 'Harvey left the room, but not for long. He re-emerged naked a couple of minutes later and asked if I would give him a massage. Panicking, in shock, I remember weighing up the options and wondering how much I needed to placate him to keep myself safe. Model Zoe Brock was 23 when she allegedly had to lock herself in a hotel bathroom to escape Weinstein's advances 'I told him I was uncomfortable and that I was angry that I had been tricked into this position. He pleaded with me to let him massage me and I let him put his hands on my shoulders while my mind raced. Harvey chased me, d**k, b**ls and all, and banged on the door with his fists, pleading with me to come out.' Zoe Brock is a model and actress who was born in Christchurch, New Zealand, and raised in Australia. 'Ducked and dived': Claire Forlani said she refused Weinstein on multiple occasions Claire Forlani The Meet Joe Black actress appeared in the 2000 Miramax film Boys and Girls. She says she escaped Harvey's advances five times. 'I had two Peninsula Hotel meetings in the evening with Harvey and all I remember was I ducked, dived and ultimately got out of there without getting slobbered over, well just a bit. 'Yes, massage was suggested. The three dinners with Harvey I don't really remember the time period, I was 25. 'I remember him telling me all the actresses who had slept with him and what he had done for them.' I wasn't drinking the cool aid [sic], I knew Harvey was a master manipulator. 'He also announced to me at the last dinner I had with him at Dominic's that his pilot knew to be on standby because he could never get me to sleep with him, to which I did what I always did, make light of the situation, a joke here or there and moved on.' 'I'd had a fair amount of experience. Sometimes I got angry, really angry. I wondered why I had Prey stamped on my forehead but this I kept to myself.' Louisette Geiss The actress said she was called to a late night meeting with Weinstein in 2008. He allegedly emerged in a bathrobe and told her he would green light her script if she watched him masterbate. She left the meeting. Geiss made her accusations in a press conference with high-profile attorney Gloria Allred on October 10. The star was born in Miami, Florida. She is an actress and producer, best known for Wishmaster 3: Beyond the Gates of Hell (2001). Geiss was called to a late night meeting with Weinstein in 2008. He allegedly emerged in a bathrobe Judith Godreche The French actress says Weinstein tried to massage her and pull off her sweater after asking her up to his Cannes suite to see the view in 1996, the NYT reported. Judith Godreche, 45, is a French actress and author. She has appeared in more than 30 films and will soon star in an HBO comedy about a French woman moving to Los Angeles. Judith Godreche (pictured at the premiere of Nasty Baby in 2015) says Weinstein tried to massage her and pull off her sweater after asking her up to his Cannes suite to see the view in 1996 Dawn Dunning The actress says she was called to a meeting about future film projects in 2003 aged 24. When she arrived she says Weinstein presented her with three scripts for his next three movies which he would let her star in, only if she had three-way sex with him. She fled the hotel, she told the NYT. Dunning is a former actress turned costume designer best known for her role in Alias: The Roughest Cut (2006). Tomi-Ann Roberts The aspiring actress was 24 when she met Weinstein while serving tables as a college junior in 1984. She says he told her to meet him at his home. When she arrived, she says, he was naked in the bath and told her she would give a better audition if she was nude. She says she refused and left, reports the NYT. Tomi-Ann Roberts was 24 when she met Weinstein while serving tables Katherine Kendall The Swingers actress was told Weinstein had to stop off in his apartment to pick something up after a screening in 1993. He changed into a bathrobe and told her to massage her, she said. When she resisted she said the mogul returned naked and chased her, reports the NYT. Kendall, 48, is an American actress from Tennessee. She made her name in Doug Liman's Swingers (1996). Kendall, 48, was told Weinstein had to stop off in his apartment to pick something up after a screening in 1993 Lucia Evans The actress, formerly known as Lucia Stoller claims Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him in 2004. Speaking to the New Yorker, she said that she suffered years of trauma after the incident which occurred in a 'casting meeting' in a Miramax office in Manhattan. He reportedly called her late at night after the incident. Mira Sorvino The Mighty Aphrodite actress told the New Yorker that Weinstein tried to massage her in a hotel room at the 1995 Toronto International Film Festival. He then went to her home in the middle of the night but she called a male friend to protect her, she claimed. She said turning down the mogul adversely affected her career. Sorovino, 50, is an American actress who came to prominence after winning the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as a hooker with a heart of gold in Woody Allen's Mighty Aphrodite (1995). Mira Sorvino (pictured starring in Intruders in 2014) said Weinstein tried to massage her in a hotel room Rosanna Arquette The actress also said her career suffered after she rebuffed Weinstein's advances in the early 1990s. At a hotel meeting he tried to put her hand on his erect penis, she claims in the New Yorker. Rosanna Arquette, 58, is an American actress, film director, and producer. She was nominated for an Emmy Award for her performance in the 1982 TV film The Executioner's Song. Rose McGowan The actress, who made her breakthrough in 1996 in the Weinstein-produced slasher revival movie Scream, reportedly sued Weinstein after he assaulted her in 1997 at the Sundance Film Festival. She signed a non-disclosure agreement at the close of the suit and has only referred to him obliquely in social media since. On Sunday she referred to being abused by a 'monster' and has previously referred to being raped by a studio head. Producer Harvey Weinstein (left) and actress Rose McGowan arrive to the premiere of 'Grindhouse' at the Orpheum Theatre on March 26, 2007 in Los Angeles Ashley Judd Judd says that during filming for 1997 thriller Kiss the Girls Weinstein repeatedly asked her to watch him shower. She was one of the women who spoke out to The New York Times this week, saying: 'Women have been talking about Harvey amongst ourselves for a long time, and it's simply beyond time to have the conversation publicly.' Judd says that during filming for 1997 thriller Kiss the Girls Weinstein repeatedly asked her to watch him shower Emma De Caunes French actress Emma de Caunes said that she met Weinstein in 2010. Soon after he told her he had a script he was producing based on a book with a strong female character. Weinstein offered to show her the script, and asked her up to his room at the Ritz in Paris, where he began to take a shower. He then emerged naked and with an erection, asking her to lay down with him on the bed and telling her that many had done so before, she told the New Yorker. 'I was very petrified,' said de Caunes. 'But I didn't want to show him that I was petrified, because I could feel that the more I was freaking out, the more he was excited.' French actress Emma de Caunes said that she met Weinstein in 2010 and he invited her to his room Sophie Dix The British actress was 22 when she was invited up to his room at The Savoy after being cast in The Advocate alongside Colin Firth. Weinstein tried to massage her and started pulling at her trousers before he started masturbating. Harvey Weinstein is accused of accosting Sophie Dix in a hotel room 'As soon as I was in there, I realized it was a terrible mistake. I got to the hotel room, I remember talk of a massage and I thought that was pretty gross. I think he showed me his big back and I found that pretty horrid. 'Then before I knew it, he started trying to pull my clothes off and pin me down and I just kept saying, 'No, no, no.' But he was really forceful. I remember him pulling at my trousers and stuff and looming over me and I just sort of I am a big, strong girl and I bolted ran for the bathroom and locked the door.' 'I was in there for a while, I think. He went very quiet. After a while I remember opening the door and seeing him just there facing the door, masturbating, so I quickly closed the door again and locked it. Then when I heard room service come to the door, I just ran.' She said the incident left her bed bound with depression for six months and she decided to end her movie career. 'I decided if this what being an actress is like, I don't want it.' Lauren O'Connor The former creative executive at The Weinstein Company, told executives there in the fall of 2015 that there was 'a toxic environment for women at this company' after one of her colleagues told her that Weinstein had pressured her into massaging him while he was naked, the NYT reported. A former creative executive at The Weinstein Company told executives there in the fall of 2015 that there was 'a toxic environment for women at this company' Ambra Battilana The Italian actress and model, 24, told the NYT that in March 2015 Weinstein invited her to his New York office. There, she said, he asked if her breasts were real before grabbing them and putting his hands up her skirt. She reported the alleged incident to police, but they did not press charges. According to the NYT, Weinstein later paid her off. Italian actress and model Ambra Battilana, 24, alleges that Weinstein grabbed her breasts and put his hand up her skirt Jessica Barth Weinstein reportedly pressured Jessica Barth (pictured) to give him a naked massage Weinstein reportedly pressured the actress to give him a naked massage in the Peninsula Hotel in 2011. Jessica Barth, 39, is an American stage and film actress, known for portraying Tami-Lynn McCaferty in the film Ted and its sequel. Laura Madden A former production assistant and the Weinstein company, she told the NYT that Weinstein had asked her to give him massages from 1991 onwards, while they were both in London and Dublin. 'It was so manipulative,' she told the NYT. 'You constantly question yourself - am I the one who is the problem?' Weinstein denied knowledge. Emily Nestor Nestor was a temporary employee of the Weinstein Company for just one day in 2014 when Weinstein approached her and offered to boost her career in exchange for sex, the NYT reported. Zelda Perkins Perkins was an assistant of Weinstein's based in London. Aged 25 in 1998, she reportedly confronted Weinstein after she and 'several' others were harassed and later settled out of court. She said she was subjected to inappropriate requests or comments in hotel rooms. Zelda Perkins reportedly confronted Weinstein after she and 'several' others were harassed and later settled out of court Elizabeth Karlsen Produced Karlsen told The Hollywood Reporter on Sunday that almost 30 years ago an unnamed young female executive who had worked at Miramax with Weinstein had found him naked in her bedroom one night. The exec was in a house rented by Miramax at the time to cut its overheads. Karlsen, 57, is the Oscar-nominated British producer of Carol and The Crying Game. Liza Campbell A freelance script reader, she told the UK's Sunday Times that Weinstein had summoned her to his hotel room in London before telling her to get in the bath with him. Campbell, 58, is an artist, calligrapher, columnist and writer, born in the north of Scotland and currently living in London, England. Campbell, 58, (pictured in 2004) said that Weinstein had summoned her to his hotel room in London Lauren Sivan The former Fox news host said that Weinstein trapped her in a closed restaurant and masturbated in front of her to completion in 2007. He allegedly took her to a closed restaurant beneath a club she had visited and attempted to kiss her, then when she refused he cornered her and made her watch him touch himself, according to The Huffington Post. Sivan is now a TV reporter in Los Angeles and was a local journalist in New York 10 years ago when her encounter with Weinstein allegedly occurred. Former Fox news host Lauren Sivan said that Weinstein trapped her in a closed restaurant and masturbated in front of her to completion in 2007 Jessica Hynes Hynes said she was invited to audition for Weinstein when she was 19 - in a bikini. She said she refused to wear the skimpy item - and lost the job. British actress Hynes, 44, formally known as Jessica Stevenson, is best known for her roles in the Bridget Jones movies and for co-creating and co-writing the sitcom Spaced. Jessica Hynes said she was invited to audition for Weinstein when she was 19 - in a bikini. She said she refused to wear the skimpy item - and lost the job Romola Garai British actress Romola Garai said she felt 'violated' following a meeting with Harvey Weinstein in his London hotel room when she was 18 in which he was in a bathrobe. Garai, best known for her role in Atonement, said she had already been hired for a part but was told to audition privately with the Hollywood mogul because 'you had to be personally approved by him'. 'Like every other woman in the industry, I've had an 'audition' with Harvey Weinstein,' she told The Guardian. 'So I had to go to his hotel room in the Savoy and he answered the door in his bathrobe. I was only 18. I felt violated by it'. Garai, 35, is an English actress, writer, and director. She is known for appearing in the films Amazing Grace, Atonement, and Glorious 39. British actress Romola Garai said she felt 'violated' following a meeting with Harvey Weinstein in his London hotel room when she was 18 Florence Darel French actress Florence Darel has claimed that she was harassed by the producer in 1993. Darel, 49, who first came to notice in Eric Rohmer's 'A Tale of Springtime' in 1990, told French media that Weinstein had promised to help make her big in America if she became his 'part-time' mistress. She said she first had to beat off his advances after Weinstein's company Miramax bought the 1993 fashion industry comedy 'A la mode' in which she appeared. The following year, pushed by her agent, she agreed to meet Weinstein in a Paris hotel, where he he asked her to be his mistress 'a few days a year'. Actress Florence Darel, 49, revealed on Thursday to French media that movie mogul Harvey Weinstein had promised to help make her big in America if she became his 'part-time' mistress Paula Wachowiak Paula Wachowiak, who is now 62 and lives in Buffalo, New York, has revealed that Weinstein exposed himself to her in a hotel room while filming the horror movie The Burning in 1980 Paula Wachowiak, who is now 62 and lives in Buffalo, New York, claims Weinstein exposed himself to her in a hotel room in 1980 while filming one of the first movies he produced, The Burning. Wachowiak was a 24-year-old single mother at the time who was studying at University of Buffalo. She told the Buffalo News that she had reached out to try and intern for Weinstein - who was a local concert promoter and producer - and he offered her a job working as a personal assistant to the film's accountant. Wachowiak said the accountant asked her one day to take several checks to Weinstein in his hotel room to have them signed. 'When I got into the room I realized that he was holding a hand towel around his waist,' she said. Lysette Anthony The British actress, who starred in films alongside Hugh Grant and Michael Caine, claims she was raped by Weinstein at her London home in the late 80s. Anthony said she was friends with Weinstein for years before the alleged attack, and never felt like anything 'untoward' was about to happen. Lysette Anthony (left this year, and right in 1983) claims Weinstein raped her at her home in the late Eighties But that all changed after a night at his house in Chelsea, where she says he 'grabbed' her but she managed to get away. After that he began stalking her, she claims, before calling at her house at 10am when she answered in her dressing gown. Anthony says Weinstein forced his way inside, pinned her against a coat rack and raped her before leaving. Unnamed assistant Weinstein allegedly behaved inappropriately toward a woman employed as his assistant in 1990. The case was settled out of court. Another unnamed assistant In 2015, Weinstein reportedly pressured another assistant into giving him a naked massage in the Peninsula Hotel, where he is also said to have pressured Barth. Unnamed Miramax employee At one point in the early 1990s, a young woman is alleged to have suddenly left the company after an encounter with Weinstein. She also settled out of court. Unnamed woman A woman who did not wish to be named because she feared Weinstein's connections told The New York Times that the producer had summoned her to his hotel at an unknown date and raped her. A missing woman who sparked a desperate police search after posting a cryptic Facebook post has been found alive, police confirmed. Jessica Patton, 22, vanished on Saturday October 14, prompting a police appeal for information. Just two days before she went missing, the young mother wrote on her Facebook page: 'feeling so f***ing sic of this.' Missing mother Jessica Patton, 22, vanished on Saturday October 14, sparking a police appeal for information. She has now been found alive, police have been confirmed Just two days before she went missing, the young mother wrote on her Facebook page: 'feeling so f***ing sic of this' Ms Patton posted the status just two days before she went missing, saying she was 'feeling so f***ing sick of this' She also commented: 'it gets worse and worse'. Police Service Northern Ireland had appealed for members of the public to get in touch with information. A spokesman said: 'Missing person Jessica Patton has been located. We would like to thank the public for their assistance with this.' Police Service Northern Ireland are appealing to members of the public to get in touch with information The appeal to find the missing mother was shared hundreds of times since she vanished. A friend commented: 'Somebody has to know something... come home safe Jessica Patton. Your baby boy needs you.' Another wrote: 'Can't stop thinking about her'. An aristocratic landowner and friend of the royals refused a 2million offer for a field to be turned into affordable homes - because they would ruin his view. David Smith-Ryland was approached by developer Rosconn over plans to build 50 houses on a field on his vast estate. The 56-year-old claims a figure of around 2million was suggested for the five-and-a-half acre field on his estate near Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. Mr Smith-Ryland - whose family have lived on the estate since 1837 - said he rejected the offer because he didn't want to 'block' his view of a historic stable block. The area made headlines in 2015 when his brother Robin, who shares the family estate and owns land at nearby Sherbourne Park, hosted a controversial 'lifestyle' festival that was branded a 'swingers' event'. David Smith-Ryland, 56, has refused a 2million offer for a five-and-a-half acre field at his estate in Warwickshire which a developer wants to turn into affordable homes Mr Smith-Ryland says the homes would 'spoil his view' of the historic Barford Hill Stables, pictured His father Charles Smith-Ryland is a former Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire and would host the royals at their estate. He said: 'I am not interested in applying for planning permission on the land because of the negative impact any development would have on the landscape in the area, including blocking the view of the attractive old Barford Hill Stables. 'It would have impacted upon the view of the Stables which, even though they've been developed and enlarged, they are nonetheless still attractive. 'If the field was developed, it would block the view of the old stables from Hareway Lane. 'There's a need for housing all over England but it must be appropriate and not inappropriate.' Mr Smith-Ryland and his older brother Robin, 61, own and run the family's sprawling 2,000-acres of rolling countryside straddling the River Avon. His brother hosted 500 guests in 2015 at the four-day Effrenata Lifestyle Festival. Mr Smith-Ryland's (pictured) father Sir Charles was former Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire and would host members of the Royal Family at their estate The area previously made headlines when Mr Smith-Ryland's brother Robin, pictured, hosted a controversial 'lifestyle' festival on his land at the nearby Sherbourne Park estate The event, pictured, was described as a 'swingers' festival' by locals who branded it 'disgusting' Speaking at the time, a parish councillor branded it 'disgusting' and said: 'There are people who come for a quiet life and they do not expect to have this sort of thing. It is taking over the village without our permission or consent.' Tickets reportedly cost as much as 179 and activities on offer included 'bondage al fresco', 'Roman orgies', whipping and a 'porn wall', with security guards employed around the perimeter. At the time Robin Smith-Ryland dismissed the concerns as 'not a big deal' and said no one 'could see what was going on inside the tents'. Mr Smith-Ryland rents much of his 775 acres to farmers and dog walking businesses while Robin, a colourful Old Etonian and huntsman, lives in Sherbourne Manor north of the River Avon. In an intriguing twist, Warwickshire-based developer Rosconn claims Mr Smith-Ryland approached them about the possibility of selling them the land. According to Rosconn, Mr Smith-Ryland contacted them regarding a possible sale of a field in Hareway Lane, in the picturesque village of Barford. The land sits just outside a conservation area making it attractive to potential developers for its proximity to junction 15 of the M40. A Rosconn spokesman said: 'David Smith-Ryland approached us about doing it. 'We had a call from David who asked us to explore it. We had a chat with him, but never made any formal offers. 'He decided he didn't want to do anything. It was a strange one. No valuations, no technical work was done at all.' Mr Smith-Ryland later said he halted the deal because he felt it was 'inappropriate' Mr Smith-Ryland, who lives in a farmhouse on the estate, admits an approach was made to Rosconn but said the deal was halted because it was 'inappropriate.' He added: 'They (Rosconn) said we could put it out to offers from building companies and thought I could probably get about 2 million. 'My agents were wanting to be the middle man and I told my agent I wasn't interested and they said 'look, let's get Rosconn on board and see what the offer is.' 'I think they were hoping they would persuade me. 'I'm not anti-development, I'm anti-inappropriate development.' Mr Smith-Ryland's brother Robin is no stranger to controversy in the area, particularly over a 'lifestyle' festival previously hosted on his share of the estate at Sherbourne Park. A local housing group have stressed the need for more affordable homes to be built in Warwickshire. Kim Slater, chief executive of Warwickshire Rural Community Council, said: 'The site in question would be a developer-led site and the district council is purely saying any percentage of a development needs to be affordable. 'We aren't doing anything like that in Warwick district at the moment and haven't for a while, we tend to operate most successfully in Stratford district. 'There is absolutely a need for affordable housing, any time we do a housing needs survey we are uncovering a need for affordable housing, we specifically work in rural areas so that need is quite acute. 'Particularly in the south of the county, where if you look at household income versus household prices, it's up around eight times the household income. 'Then when you get into the affordable side of the spectrum, which tends to be the cheapest 25 per cent of houses versus the lowest 25 per cent of household income, that ratio goes up to about 14 times. 'It means that housing is in effect unaffordable for the vast majority of people in rural communities. 'Even though we are producing small schemes to meet local needs, they are nowhere near meeting the overall need.' Campaigners stressed there was an urgent need to develop land into affordable housing near David Smith-Ryland's sprawling estate. Developer Rosconn said Mr Smith-Ryland contacted them about a sale and they only had 'informal' conversations Kim Slater, chief executive of Warwickshire Rural Community Council, said: 'The site in question would be a developer-led site and the district council is purely saying any percentage of a development needs to be affordable. 'There is absolutely a need for affordable housing, any time we do a housing needs survey we are uncovering a need for affordable housing, we specifically work in rural areas so that need is quite acute. 'Particularly in the south of the county, where if you look at household income versus household prices, it's up around eight times the household income. 'It means that housing is in effect unaffordable for the vast majority of people in rural communities.' Councillor Peter Phillips, who sites on Warwick District Council, said: 'Our biggest problem as a council is finding land for development. 'We have the money but the biggest problem is land. '(David Smith-Ryland's land) is private owned land, we do not own land ourselves apart from plots for small garages.' The little boy who froze with emotion when his soldier father returned home had forgotten what he looked like and even asked a stranger 'Are you my daddy?', his mother has revealed. Sean Gavagan's reaction to his father's return to Dublin, Ireland after a six-month tour of duty went viral last week as video captured the two-year-old standing stock still and dropping his head in disbelief when his dad appears. Now the toddler's mother, Maria Gavagan, 36, says part of the reason little Sean was so upset was because he wasn't sure which soldier was his father. She told MailOnline: 'He'd gone up to a few guys before and said 'are you my dad?', it was so cute, the poor little fella.' Reunited: The Gavagan familed were pictured together moments after the emotional reunion that saw Sean, aged two and wearing the orange coat, freeze when his father appeared Mystified: Sean, who turns three next month, was dressed in military uniform in proud homage to his father at his parents wedding six months ago Bog day: Sean Gavagan, who will be three next month, had not seen his father since his wedding day to mother Maria six months ago when they were reunited Happy couple: Captain Ian Gavagan and wife Maria married six months ago and did not see one another, including their two children, until the heartwarming video reunion last week 'All these soldiers were coming through and you could see him looking up and going to himself 'is that him? is that him?' 'When his dad eventually came through, his big sister just ran crying 'daddy, daddy' and I ran after her. 'It was all too much for poor little Sean - luckily his grandad Martin who is also in the army- was there on hand to comfort him.' Maria says another reason Sean was overcome was that her husband's homecoming has been postponed on a number of occasions in the preceding days. Captain Ian Gavagan, 33, had been serving a six month our of duty with UN peacekeeping forces on the Lebanese/ Syrian border. He had been granted leave in August to return to Ireland to marry Maria before returning to his military duties. 'We'd been told he was coming on Tuesday and then again on Wednesday and we'd had all these calls back and forward between Ian and the kids. 'But there were technical hitches with the airplane and it kept getting delayed. Ian Gavagan's family, pictured, prepares to meet him as he arrives home after a six-month tour in the Golan Heights, on the Israel-Syria border His family - including his new wife, Maria - were seen warmly embracing the UN peacekeeper But little Sean doesn't join in the hug as he is too overcome with emotion A man walks over to Sean, pictured, and tries to comfort him as it's all too much for him 'So by the time he actually did arrive on Thursday the 5th, we were all a little bit emotional. 'Sean has seen his dad on internet calls and of course he saw him at the wedding, but I guess it's different for a very young child like that, they forget easily.' 'Even after Ian did arrive back, Sean was very shy for a while, children take time to adjust. 'We went to Ian's mum's house for a cup of tea and I made Ian go upstairs and take off his uniform so he looked more normal. 'Eventually after a while, Sean piped up with 'dad, you're home'. It was so funny, it was like it had just dawned on him.' Unfortunately Sean and Grace's time with their newly returned was short. Sean Gavagan's reaction to his father's return after a six-month tour of duty went viral last week as video captured the two-year-old standing stock still and dropping his head in disbelief when his dad appears. Pictured: Ian and Maria Gavagan They spent that evening in their granny's house, as the newlyweds made up for lost time with a 'mini moon' in London, leaving on an early morning flight the following morning Maria who works as a clerical officer in one of Ireland's largest hospitals, Dublin's Mater hospital, says the couple missed their return flight on Monday and had to wait until Tuesday for another. Then Ian left for Benidorm last Friday for his best friend's stag party, only returning today. 'They haven't see that much of him yet,' says Maria, 'but he's on leave for the next five weeks and he will be doing all the school runs, all the meals and generally being a housewife. 'They'll love that.' Her husband is not due to go overseas agin until next year and that is likely to be for a much shorter tour. Already Sean is showing signs of following in his dad's footsteps. 'Ian's own father served in the Lebanon,' says Maria, 'so he knows what it's like to be waiting for daddy to come home. 'But already Sean is playing with guns and tanks and loving all that. so maybe he'll be the third generation to go over.' Sean holds his hands to his face to cover the tears while he is comforted by a man, possibly a colleague of his father The man convinces little Sean to stop crying and go and see his dad Captain Gavagan had flown back earlier during his deployment to marry Maria and then headed straight back out to the region Sean's heartrending appearance in the video has received thousands of views turning him into something of a celebrity in Ireland where he's been invited onto an evening chat show with his mum and dad. Although no all the attention has been favourable. 'They were some online comments about my abandoning Sean by running towards Ian when him coming out,' says Maria. 'That's just nonsense, his granddad was there with him and everything happened do fast. 'It was a great day and despite the tears, a very happy one. 'It's something that we'll be able to remind Sean about for years to come.' Captain Gavagan was one of 100 soldiers stationed at Casement Aerodrome military base who returned home last week. He had flown back earlier during his deployment to marry Maria and then headed straight back out to the region. The adorable scene starts with his daughter rushing over to him. There are hugs and kisses until the reunited family realises that little Sean is nowhere to be found in the warm embrace. Maria on her wedding day; and with Ian, who is finally back home in Ireland Looking back, the family sees Sean where they left him before running - he's in tears after getting a first glance at his returning dad. UN peackeepers have been monitoring a 1974 ceasefire between Israel and Syria on the Golan Heights. Hundreds of UN troops withdrew from the Syrian-held side of the Golan to the Israeli-occupied sector in September 2014 after Al Qaeda-linked rebels kidnapped dozens of peacekeepers. In late August 2014, rebels on the Syrian side including Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front kidnapped more than 40 Fijian UN troops and released them two weeks later. Israel seized 1,200sq km (460 square miles) of the Golan during the Six-Day War of 1967, then annexed it in 1981. Some 510sq km of the Golan remain on the Syrian side of the ceasefire line, with the peacekeepers overseeing a buffer zone stretching 70km from Lebanon in the north to Jordan in the south. Economics graduate Abdul Samad managed to reach the front door of his parents' block and buzzed for help after the attack A charity worker was stabbed by moped muggers for his iPhone and died after collapsing on his doorstep. Abdul Samad, 28, who was described as a 'role model for children', was knifed in the heart by two yobs during a struggle as they attempted to snatch his iPhone 7 outside his home. His family tragically told how they found the Westminster University economics graduate dying on their doorstep while frantically pressing the entry buzzer for help. They rushed down the stairs of their black of flats in Little Venice to see their son covered in blood after he was stabbed 'through the heart'. Yesterday his devastated brother, Abdul Ahad, told how his mother rushed outside as he lay fatally injured outside their home in Little Venice, north west London. His parents, who came to the UK from Bangladesh in the 1960s, were unable to stem the bleeding and Mr Samad died in hospital just an hour after the attack, which happened at 11.45pm on Monday. His 37-year-old brother said: 'He came to the door and buzzed and was covered in blood. The knife went through his heart. My mum and dad came down and he was lying on the floor. 'My mum then called me and said 'your brother is dying'. 'It was over a phone. It's just so senseless.' Shocking pictures from the scene of the fatal attack show a police cordon and an ambulance which rushed Mr Samad to hospital Police are questioning two teenagers aged 18 and 17 arrested on suspicion of murder. The Met Police told MailOnline this afternoon the pair remained in custody. Speaking today, a man who identified himself as Abdul's younger brother confirmed the reason for the attack was over his mobile phone. He said: 'Everything that's already been reported is true, that's how it happened. 'We've got nothing else to say, that's what happened and it's already been told. There's no benefit in saying anymore. We family don't want to say anything else.' Mr Samad, who had been due to marry his long-term girlfriend next year, was attacked on his way home from a friend's house where he had been playing computer games that evening. 'He dedicated his life to helping others': Friends and family of Abdul's described him as a kind-hearted person 'Devastated': Colleague Bradley Watson said Abdul was trying to change young people's lives One friend said: 'There were a couple of guys on mopeds who approached him, they're always riding around here, and they tried to get his iPhone 7. We think he must have fought back.' Mr Ahad said his brother had dedicated his life to helping local children. 'This is a young life gone and such a lovely life,' he told the Evening Standard. 'He was born in St Mary's Hospital and he's died there.' He worked for the community charity Covent Garden Dragon Hall Trust helping young Londoners develop their computer skills and taking them on trips to the theatre and other activities. Colleague Bradley Watson, 28, described Mr Samad as a man 'dedicated to changing young people's lives'. He told MailOnline: 'I am devastated to lose one of my colleagues to the same young people whose lives we are trying to change.' Mr Watson said: 'Abdul had so much enthusiasm and was very knowledgeable about the tech industry and was just a great person to be around.' Police at the scene in Little Venice after Mr Samad was fatally stabbed by who his family claim were two moped-riding thugs The pair had been working on a joint imitative in Islington. The Soap Box is a new recreational hub for 13-24 year olds to encourage getting people off the streets and becoming involved in the community instead. Describing Mr Samad, he said: 'He was just so down to earth, he was very caring and put himself first. He was a really approachable guy, there wasn't anything you couldn't discuss with him. 'I found out through a phone call from another colleague and I was in disbelief and shock, I just felt numb immediately and just needed to be around my colleagues.' Mr Watson said: 'It just makes me think, is it really worth it? Young people are taking things too far now, it was just a phone and it should never be worth more than a life. 'What these youngsters need is to be kept off the streets and that was exactly what Abdul was trying to achieve. 'These people need to think about the choices they are making. Not only have they taken a life but they've lost their own too.' The mother of a teenager who was helped by Abdul took to Facebook to pay respects to the 28-year-old. Gilly Bean wrote: 'When your son comes home so sad because his youth worker was tabbed and killed for his phone. There are no words. Rest in peace, Abdul Samad.' Mr Samad was taken to St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, where he was born, but died an hour later with his mother and father comforting him in his final moments Director Nicole Furre said he helped youngsters with their homework at an after-school club and they looked up to him. 'Abdul was a big part of our team,' she said. 'It has been a terrible shock and it will have a knock-on effect on those he helped. He was a very good role model. We are going to think about how we break the news to these children.' Yesterday, Scotland Yard Commissioner Cressida Dick said she was shocked by the scale of crimes involving mopeds and added that lawlessness in the capital has a 'feeling of anarchy' about it. She suggested many robbers on two wheels are simply imitating other criminals they have seen in videos posted online. 'There is an organised crime network tasking young people to steal mopeds and getting them to ride them for robberies,' said Miss Dick. 'But it is a relatively small number of people who are determinedly doing this.' Officers speak with a local resident after a 17-year-old boy and an 18-year-old man were arrested in connection with the killing A heavy police presence was still in place outside Fleming Court in Little Venice today. The man who died was reportedly stabbed for his iPhone MURDER IN THE CAPITAL: THE SECOND 'SENSELESS' ATTACK IN ONE EVENING On the same night Abdul Samad was murdered outside his home, a 20-year-old man was killed outside Parsons Green tube station in West London. Omid Saidy, from Fulham, was pronounced dead at the scene at 8.30pm on Monday, while two males, aged 20 and 16, were taken to hospital. He was thought to have confronted a drug-dealer before he was set upon. Tragic: Abdul Samad and Omid Saidy were murdered in separate attacks on Monday night Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh, from the Met, said: 'A young man has tragically lost his life for simply asking a drug dealer to move on. I urge anyone who can assist our investigation to come forward without delay.' One of the suspects, described as a black male dressed in dark clothing, fled down Harbled Road in the direction of Fulham Court. A 16-year-old white male, who was discharged from hospital after he was treated for his injuries, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Appealing for witnesses, Mr McHugh added: 'It is imperative that we speak to anyone who was in the area of Parsons Green station between 7pm and 8pm who may have witnessed the murder or the actions of the suspects immediately following the incident. 'In addition, I am keen to identify the black male who fled Parsons Green Lane immediately following the murder and am appealing for footage that members of the public may have recorded as events in the area took place.' Advertisement Mr Samad studied economics at the University of Westminster and was born in Britain after his parents arrived from Bangladesh in the 60s. Nicole Furre, director of the Dragon Hall Trust, said: 'We are just all devastated by the news. 'We're a very small team here and we're all very shocked and were just trying to process the news. 'He loved his job as a youth worker. He was fantastic with the young people who he was teaching. 'He would do the coding lessons and make apps and he really made it come alive for them all. 'All the children and young people who use the centre will be extremely sad and upset. It is all terribly sad, and such a waste. More police near to the scene where Mr Samad was killed. The victim was a dedicated charity worker who loved to work with young people in London, his family have said The family said witnesses to the charity's worker's attack saw him being approached by youths riding a moped outside his flat in St Mary's Terrace, Little Venice Deadly toll of the moped thugs Moped gangs are robbing 54 times a day across London and are even holding training sessions on how to snatch phones before they hit the streets. Up until the end of May there were 8,192 crimes involving scooters - almost as many recorded in 2016. If offences continue at the same rate, 2017 will see around 19,710 thefts in total - up 116 per cent from last year. Last Monday, a group of builders confronted six moped-riding thugs armed with sledgehammers who were trying to raid a watch shop in Westminster. That came just hours after a gang raided Mappin and Webb jewellers in a near identical robbery less than half a mile away. In July, a man was stabbed to death by two attackers on a moped close to Greenwich Maritime Museum. The same month, two teenagers on a moped doused five riders with acid while trying to steal bikes in North London. Mr Samad's death came just hours after a man was chased down and killed by an assailant riding a moped outside Parsons Green Underground Station. Advertisement 'We are making plans about how to manage the children and young people when they hear the news, because he was loved by so many of them. 'They are going to be very upset because they had a close relationship with him. 'He was great and particularly talented whenever there was an issue with a computer or technology, Abdul would know how to sort it out. 'He was really good at working with young people and enjoyed being a youth worker and working and helping them learn. And that's why its such a sad waste.' Two other men have were taken to central London hospitals to receive treatment She said staff have today been calling parents to inform them of the tragic news. Ms Furre said: 'He was great person, quiet but he was great at his job and he was really loved by children. 'It's such a massive waste. A life cut short for what? Just for a phone. It's just devastating.' A Met Police spokesman said: 'An 18-year-old male and a 17-year-old male were arrested on suspicion of murder near to the scene in the early hours of Tuesday, 17 October. 'Both have been taken to north London police stations where they remain in custody.' Mr Samad's death came just hours after a man was chased down and killed by an assailant riding a moped outside Parsons Green Underground Station. Police were called to the scene just before 8pm last night. Scotland Yard confirmed one of the men injured in the attack, believed to be aged 20, died. The next of kin has been informed. All three men were treated by the London Ambulance Service. Two other men have were taken to central London hospitals to receive treatment. Residents in surrounding streets were unable to enter their homes due to the police cordon. The woman who was drugged and raped by Roman Polanski when she was underage has spoken out to say she forgives the pedophile director. Samantha Geimer, now 54, was just 13 years old when Polanski plied her with champagne and drugs during a photoshoot in Los Angeles before attacking her. But Geimer told Good Morning Britain that she forgave Polanski 'almost as soon as it happened' and was more traumatized by the ensuing court case and press coverage. Speaking to hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid, she said: 'I forgave him many years ago, almost immediately after it had happened. Forgiveness doesn't come hard to me. Samantha Geimer, 54, told Good Morning Britain that she forgive Roman Polanski for drugging and raping her, and says she was more traumatized by the court case Geimer was just 13 when she was given champagne and half a quaalude by Polanski during a photo shoot, before he raped her as she told him to stop 'What he did, did not affect me greatly. What happened with the court and the media traumatized my whole family and changed our whole lives. 'I want the misconduct in the case investigated, to show that the judge lied and that Roman did the right thing. Sentence him to time served and dismiss the case. 'Whatever they can do to end the case before I have to explain it to my a granddaughter. It's been 40 years.' Geimer appeared in court earlier this year to try and get the case dismissed but her appeal was refused, with the judge saying he could not dismiss a case 'merely because it would be in the victim's best interest.' Polanski confessed as part of a plea deal but fled America for France, where he remains to this day, as he feared being jailed Polanski was accused of attacking Geimer during a photoshoot at the home of Jack Nicholson in 1977 while the actor was away. Geimer said she was plied with champagne, which was brought by Polanski, and half a quaalude pill before he performed oral, vaginal, and anal sex acts upon her despite her repeatedly telling her no. Polanski initially denied the claims, but later pleaded guilty as part of a deal which saw some of the charges dropped. He served 42 days in jail while a psychological evaluation was carried out, then released pending his sentencing, in the expectation that he would only be given further probation. But it is alleged that LA Deputy District Attorney David Wells, who was not directly involved in the case, approached judge Laurence J. Rittenband with images of Polanski with his arms around young girls. Wells allegedly used the images to convince Rittenband that Polanski should not be allowed to go free, despite such a meeting being in breach of ethical laws. Fearing jail time, Polanski fled first to England and then to his home country of France, which refused to extradite him to America. He has remained there since. Geimer appeared in court earlier this year when she asked a judge to throw the case out, but was told it could not be dismissed 'merely because it would be in the victim's best interest' Polanski (pictured in 1970) admitted in his autobiography that the encounter took place, but denies drugging Geimer and says the activity was consensual Geimer spoke out after dozens of Hollywood actresses came forward to accuse Harvey Weinstein of rape, sexual abuse and harassment dating back decades. Others shared stories of abuse at the hands of men both inside and outside the industry in order to try and break the silence that has surrounded the issue. America Ferrera used her Instagram to reveal she had been abused aged nine by a 'grown man' who she had to see for years afterward. Meanwhile Reese Witherspoon spoke up to say she was attacked by a director aged 16 as she was starting out in Hollywood. The Legally Blonde star spoke at an event in front of her own 18-year-old daughter Ava Phillippe on Monday night. Weinstein has denied any allegations of non-consensual sex. A Spanish Air Force pilot had died after F-18 jet crashed near and airbase in Madrid on Tuesday morning. Lieutenant Fernando Perez Serrano, 26, suddenly crashed to the ground as the F-18 fighter jet was taking off from Torrejon de Ardoz airbase around 11am local time. Mr Perez Serrano is the second Spanish Air Force pilot to die in Madrid in five days, after another fatal accident after a military display on Thursday. Crash: The Spanish Air Force F-18 fighter jet crashed to the ground during take-off at the Torrejon de Ardoz airbase near Madrid Firefighters stationed at the air base are leading the emergency response, and video posted on social media shows thick plumes of black smoke rising from the crash scene. Mr Perez Serrano joined the air force in 2009 and had logged more than 700 flight hours, Spanish media reports. The reason for the fatal crash is not yet known, but an engine failure has been listed as the likely cause. According to El Pais, mechanics had warned that the engine was making 'a strange noise' before takeoff. Tragedy: Lieutenant Fernando Perez Serrano, 26, died in the crash on Tuesday morning Members from the Emergency Services are seen at the crash site a near the Air Base in Torrejon de Ardoz, Madrid The Spanish Ministry of Defence confirmed the fatal incident in a tweet, writing: 'As a result of the accident, which happened as the plane was taking off, the pilot has died.' It added in a second message: 'The Air Force is investigating the causes of the accident, which at the moment are unknown.' Today's accident comes just five days after a Spanish Air Force Eurofighter crashed near a public park in Albacete south of Madrid as it returned from a military display. Images taken shortly after the crash shows thick plumes of black smoke rising from the scene The pilot Borja Aybar, whose wife and young baby were waiting for him at the air base he was preparing to land at nearby, died. Cristiano Ronaldo was said to keep a Gulfstream G200 he bought at Torrejon de Ardoz so he could visit Moroccan kick boxer friend Badr Hari. David Beckham also used to fly in and out of the air base, a commercial airport which operates as a joint-use facility between the Spanish Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Public Works, when he played for Real Madrid. The son of an anti-corruption journalist killed by a car bomb on Malta has described finding her body in pieces. Matthew Caruana Galizia, himself a journalist, said his mother, Daphne, had been assassinated for doing her job in investigating alleged corruption. He described the horror of seeing 'body parts all around me' among the wreckage after arriving at the scene of the 53-year-old's death, close to her home in Bidnija, on Monday. Mr Caruana Galizia has also accused Prime Minister Joseph Muscat of being 'complicit' in the grisly killing. Scroll down for video Matthew Caruana Galizia (left), himself a journalist, said his mother, Daphne (right), had been assassinated for doing her job in investigating alleged corruption Daphne Caruana Galizia's son Matthew (centre) and husband Peter (second left) walk with police officers past the wreckage of a car bomb that killed the journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia (pictured) was a veteran journalist, once described as a 'one-woman Wikileaks', who used her widely-read blog to make a series of detailed allegations of corruption in Muscat's inner circle, some based on the Panama Papers data leak Daphne Caruana Galizia was a veteran journalist, once described as a 'one-woman Wikileaks', who used her widely-read blog to make a series of detailed allegations of corruption in Muscat's inner circle, some based on the Panama Papers data leak. Her killing has triggered an outpouring of grief on the island of just 430,000 people, with thousands turning out to an overnight candlelit vigil in her memory in the fortress capital Valletta. Further 'Justice for Daphne' demonstrations were scheduled on Tuesday. The journalist was the fourth person to die in a Malta car bombing in just over a year but previous attacks were all linked to criminal feuds and did not generate anything like the shock created by Caruana's death. The blackened tarmac shows where the explosion happened and the car's path can be seen heading from the road into the field Women light candles during a candlelight vigil in Sliema in tribute to late journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Thousands of people gathered for a candlelight vigil to remember Caruana Galizia who was killed by a car bomb close to her home in Bidnija, Malta 'I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it,' Matthew Caruana wrote. 'They stared at me. "I'm sorry, there is nothing we can do", one of them said. 'I looked down and there were my mother's body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless.' Muscat described the killing as 'barbaric' and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. But that pledge was dismissed by the victim's son. 'A culture of impunity has been allowed to flourish by the government in Malta,' he wrote. Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese investigative journalist who exposed her island nation's links with the Panama Papers Forensic experts walk in a field after a powerful bomb blew up a car (foreground) and killed investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in Bidnija, Malta 'It is of little comfort for the Prime Minister of this country to say that he will "not rest" until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a government that encouraged that same impunity. 'If the institutions were already working, there would be no assassination to investigate - and my brothers and I would still have a mother.' The judge in charge of investigating the murder stepped aside from the case on Tuesday following objections from the Caruana Galizia family that she was too close to the Labour Party administration. Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera had been accused of misconduct by the blogger and had threatened her with libel proceedings. Caruana Galizia's death came four months after Muscat won a landslide victory in elections that were called early after she accused his wife of taking kickbacks from Azerbaijan's ruling family and hiding the cash in a secret Panama bank account. An ambulance is parked along the road where a car bomb exploded killing the journalist Police and forensics experts stand behind a road block after a powerful bomb blew up the car Police said she was killed as she was driving near the village of Bidnija in northern Malta An ambulance and police vehicles are parked along the road where a car bomb exploded killing investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, in the town of Mosta, Malta. The car can be seen in the field and the blackened tarmac where the explosion appeared to have happened is seen leading to the vehicle The claims, which Muscat fervently denies, were the latest in a string of scandals on the island based on information leaked from the records of Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. The so-called Panama Papers revealed how wealthy individuals around the world, including a number of politicians, used shell companies based in the Latin American state and other tax havens to hide cash. Among those exposed were Keith Schembri, Muscat's chief of staff, and Konrad Mizzi, a government minister. The premier resisted pressure to fire the pair, insisting their accounts were related to their private business and they had done nothing illegal. Wikileaks founder Julian Assange offered a 20,000 euros reward for anyone who provided information about the attack leading to the conviction of those responsible. Curtis Fallgatter (pictured) claims his client at 72 years old and 273 pounds is too fat to go to prison The attorney for a 72-year-old Florida man who was convicted in a tax dodging scheme is using obesity to try to keep his client out of prison. Curtis Fallgatter wrote in a court filing on Monday that Stephen Donaldson Sr. doesn't have an average man's life expectancy because he's 5-foot-9 and weighs 273 pounds. For that reason, the attorney wrote, it's not right to make him serve six years and four months in prison. Fallgatter wrote that the prison term could translate to 61 percent of Donaldson's remaining time on earth. The Tampa Bay Times reports Donaldson was sentenced last week in Tampa for peddling an offshore tax shelter that cost the IRS an estimated $10 million. Donaldson was sentenced last week for his part in a $10 million scheme that peddled offshore tax havens for medical professionals (pictured: Middle Florida District Court in Tampa) Donaldson was convicted with a co-conspirator, 70-year-old Duane Crithfield, who also received six years and four months in prison. Both men are being held at Pinellas County Jail, which holds detainees in federal custody. The guilt verdicts come after more than four years of litigation in the case. Prosecutors were able to successfully prove that Donaldson and Crithfield spearheaded a fraudulent tax scheme that marketed offshore 'Business Protection Plans' to medical practices. The plans were designed to shelter doctors and other medical professionals against unlikely events such as a kidnapping. Chief U.S. District Judge Stephen D. Merryday (pictured) earlier this year threw out a plea deal signed by the defendant that would have seen him in jail for only three years Buyers of the plan would pay a premium and write-off the cost as a business expense, later reclaiming about 85 per cent of the premium if the insurance was not utilized, The Bay Times reported. The scheme also helped purchasers to avoid paying a much higher marginal tax rate. Chief U.S. District Judge Stephen D. Merryday earlier this year threw out a plea deal signed by the two defendants after their attorneys began downplaying their clients' criminal conduct, leading the judge to revisit the issue. The original plea deal would have led to a three year prison sentence on only one count of helping a client make a false statement on his corporate tax return. Donaldson and Crithfield were investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation Unit and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jay G. Trezevant and Megan K. Kistler, The Bay Times noted. A Vietnamese actress has described in harrowing detail how Harvey Weinstein tried to 'teach' her how to perform a sex scene as she auditioned for a role in one of his films. Vu Thong Phuong, 32, recounted their meeting in a lengthy Facebook post last Thursday after reading the accusations of dozens of other women in Hollywood who have accused Weinstein of sexual harassment and assault. She told how in 2008, when she was 23, she had been picked by producers of The Weinstein Company film for a supporting role in the Shanghai movie with John Cusack and Gong Li when she met Weinstein in Saigon to discuss the film. After visiting a clothing store that she owned she said Weinstein bought her books and promised to promote her designs in Hollywood but told her that her lines in the film had been cut. He blamed it on political reasons, citing Vietnam's ongoing tension with Hong Kong at the time. Vu Thong Phuong, 32, (above in a recent image) said Weinstein cornered her when she was 23 in Saigon after giving her a part in his film Shanghai Phuong claims Weinstein assuaged her by promising to include her in future projects and they went their separate ways. However later that night, she said she received an 'urgent' message from one of his assistants beckoning her to his hotel suite to discuss her future in acting. She claims she was taken to the presidential suite where she sat alone, waiting in the dark as Weinstein finished a phone call in the other room. Eventually, he appeared 'smiling, with a towel around his waist' and asked: 'Are you ready to step into Hollywood?'. According to Phuong, Weinstein then told her that a film he had her in mind for would involve a 'lot' of 'hot sex scenes'. 'I can teach you, dont worry. Many stars have also been through this,' she recalled him telling her, promising that it would give her a better chance of success in the film industry. Phuong said Weinstein told her 'many' actresses had allowed him to 'teach them' how to perform sex scenes but she refused his advances. He is seen right, promoting Shanghai in 2010 At the time, Phuong was a 23 and one of Vietnam's most famous models. She is pictured with Shanghai star John Cusack Phuong, seen above during Shanghai filming with Gong Li, said she was ecstatic to have been given a part in a major Hollywood film but that her lines were cut Shanghai was not released in the US until 2015. It won critical acclaim in China but local film directors accused Weinstein of 'cheating' Phuong revealed her accusations in a lengthy Facebook post last week after reading the accounts of other women who have accused Weinstein of sexual harassment or assault The woman said she declined his advances and told him: 'Maybe Hollywood is not my place,' then left. When Shanghai was released in theaters, Phuong appeared only briefly on-screen. She never starred or appeared in another Hollywood-produced film. Phuong (above in the movie) said she cried when she saw herself on screen for just a few seconds in the final cut Phuong said she had kept their encounter a secret for nine years because she was afraid of speaking out against him but that the stories of other accusers resonated with her. Shanghai ruffled feathers in the region after its release. In 2010, a Chinese director accused Weinstein of 'cheating' to win critical acclaim by allegedly promising the Shanghai International Film Festival forum money then backing out. 'Harvey is a cheater in the eyes of many Chinese moviemakers,' director Feng Xiaogang told The Hollywood Reporter at the time. She joins a growing number of women who have accused Weinstein of sexually assaulting them or harassing them over a period of 20 years. Weinstein, who is believed to be seeking treatment for sex addiction at an unknown facility in Arizona, apologized for his behavior after the first allegations were published by The New York Times on October 5. He insisted through a spokesman that he has never forced himself on anyone or engaged in any form of non-consensual sex. Cusack has been vocal in his support of Weinstein's accusers since they began airing their allegations. He supported a boycott of Twitter after actress Rose McGowan had her account suspended last week as she commentated on the unfolding scandal. Phuong, now a mother-of-two, continues to model in Vietnam but has not appeared in another Hollywood film An 'ignorant' man has been criticised for running into a heard of dear at a London park just weeks after a woman was badly gored by a stag. Witnesses said the man appeared to be 'trying to get photos for Instagram' as he posed with a herd of up to 50 deer at Richmond Park. Despite warnings over the risks of getting close to the animals during their mating season, the man was spotted trying to herd the deer. Engineer, Duncan Eames, said that he confronted the man. Witnesses said the man appeared to be 'trying to get photos for Instagram' as he posed with a herd of up to 50 deer at Richmond Park Despite warnings over the risks of getting close to the animals during their mating season, the man was spotted trying to herd the deer 'He could quite easily have been kicked. The deer can jump quite high. If he'd been in the wrong place he could have been stampeded,' said Mr Eames 'I think it was for Instagram, he was taking a photo for social media', he told the Evening Standard. 'He berated me for telling him off. I think his exact words were: "I've met a lot of douches but you've taken douchery to a whole new level. You've ruined my Saturday. 'He could quite easily have been kicked. The deer can jump quite high. If he'd been in the wrong place he could have been stampeded.' Visitors to the park are asked to stay at least 170ft away from the deer during their rutting season. Scores of smaller, young deer can be seen running around but there are also volatile stags present who have been known to attack people during their mating season The man points at a stag bearing huge antlers. It is not uncommon during the rutting season to see males lock head-to-head with one another as they vie for females The man seems to be enjoying himself but is unaware of the potential danger he had placed himself in by frolicking with the animals during rutting season WHY YOU SHOULDN'T TRY TO PET THE DEER IN RUTTING SEASON Fallow deer during the deer rutting season at Charlecote Park, Warwickshire During the autumn, the stags fight one another as they pursue the females. A spike in the males' testosterone levels cause them to become less predictable and volatile. Rutting activity is most intense soon after dawn, though some activity occurs throughout the day. It can be common to see the males lock antlers and chase one another. Dorothy Ireland, trustee director of the British Deer Society, said climbing a tree is your best bet if you are attacked by rutting deer. She told The Guardian: 'Run and he'll chase; curl up and he'll attack you on the ground.I'm afraid the only real answer is not to be there.Deer are wild animals, and stags can become very aggressive at this time of year.' Advertisement Adam Curtis, Park Manager for Richmond Park, said: 'During the rut the male deers natural behaviour is to protect their females. We allow them to behave naturally during this time and therefore they may act unpredictably if they feel threatened.' Mr Curtis added that members of the public are urged to not disturb them during the rutting season. Two weeks ago, millliner Yuan Li, 43, was gored by a rutting deer at the park she suffered suffered six puncture wounds that required surgery in hospital. The milliner, who has made hats for and Myleene Klass, was left with a major wound on her thigh and a small blood clot on her bladder. Doctors fear her recovery could take up to 12 weeks. Miss Li had been taking pictures in the park last Friday when the stag attacked her. Advertisement An abandoned train station in Buffalo, New York, has made an international group's list of cultural treasures that need to be preserved. The Manhattan-based World Monuments Fund released its 2018 watch list of cultural heritage sites that are threatened by warfare, natural disaster, climate change or urbanization on Monday. The Watch 'calls for investment in the redevelopment of the Buffalo Central Terminal in order to give new life to this architectural landmark.' An abandoned train station in Buffalo, New York, has made an international list of cultural treasures that need to be preserved Buffalo Central Terminal opened in 1929 and operated for 50 years before closing its doors and clearing the tracks in 1979 The brick and limestone building complex is set to be renovated after being closed for almost three decades The terminal is pictured shortly after it was closed down in 1979, completely empty after five decades of operation A vintage photograph from an unspecified year shows a line of men dressed in uniforms and hats selling tickets A bison is seen grazing in front of the Buffalo Central Terminal before the area surrounding it was urbanized The facility closed in 1979 after a half-century in operation. The property featuring the old station and its 17-story Art Deco-style tower was abandoned and left to deteriorate before local preservationists stepped in. The nonprofit Central Terminal Restoration Corp. is overseeing ongoing renovation work as redevelopment projects are sought. The group's Paul Lang tells WBEN-AM that inclusion on the list puts the terminal on 'the world stage.' The list features 25 sites, including the Governor's House in Antigua that was ravaged by hurricanes this year and the Blackpool Piers in the UK. The brick and limestone building complex was built by Fellheimer and Wagner and opened in 1929. Throngs of travelers can be seen milling around in the central terminal in its earlier years as they wait for trains to depart A group of women pass through the terminal after purchasing train tickets in what appears to be 1930s clothing A train is pictured departing the station in the early years with the large brick tower looming in the background The firm specialized in railroad architecture and 'responsible for many successful designs throughout North America,' World Monuments Watch wrote in the watch list. 'At Buffalo, Fellheimer and Wagner designed dazzling interior spaces with Art Deco decoration, from stylized floral details to crystalline light fixtures and geometrically patterned terrazzo floors,' the description reads. The iconic former train station sits on the East Side of Buffalo, a city of a little over 250,000 on the shores of Lake Erie in upstate New York. The station has not been used since 1979, but there were talks earlier this year of reopening it for trains to come through A lone construction worker taking a break sits above the tracks that pass by the rundown station in 2017 The original clock is still mounted on the limestone and brick building where's its ticked away for the past 90 years The terminal is located on the East Side of Buffalo, New York, a city of about 250,000 residents in upstate New York A photo looks down on the converging railroad tracks from atop one of the platform covers at the station The abandoned building has a spooky feel to it as light filters through the windows from one end to the other The photo above shows an express train that ran between Buffalo and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in 1969 'We are honored and flattered to be included on this hugely important list from the World Monuments Fund. We want to thank the WMF for honoring us and we look forward to working with them to help move our preservation projects forward,' said Jim Hycner, chairman of the Central Terminal Restoration Corp., in a statement. 'This recognition adds to the amazing momentum the Terminal is seeing right now, including strong community support, the ULI study and backing from such leaders as Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and Howard Zemsky from Empire State Development. We could not be more excited for the Terminal's future.' According to WMF, the terminal never reached its full capacity. According to the World Monument Fund, the train station never reached its full capacity, but it is packed in the photo above A photograph from an unspecified year shows the central terminal decorated for the holidays as people travel to see family A more recent photo shows the Russian celebration of Dyngus Day that brings thousands to Buffalo each year A blurry photo shows a family in the station during its early years of operation when cameras weren't very high-quality The station is shown above on a slower day with what appears to be only a few dozen people passing through This photograph shows the New York City train called the 'Twentieth Century' as it pauses in Buffalo in the year 1934 A New York Central System train numbered 4012 can be seem steaming as it leaves the engine on a cold day in Buffalo 'Instead, beginning in the 1950s, construction of the interstate highway system and the growth of the airline industry led to a decrease in passenger traffic that was impossible to reverse,' the site says. This summer the Urban Land Institute reported that the Central Terminal could be used to increase the popularity of the Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood in which the building stands. The institute concluded that it would be premature to bring in a private developer or plan transformative projects because of the neighborhood's low market value. Instead, the panel recommended arts and cultural events throughout the year in the Central Terminal concourse to improve the former train station's image and appeal. Community investment was also suggested to improve the nearby housing market and infrastructure. The study was in response to an unsuccessful attempt to have a new Buffalo train station located at the Central Terminal. Canadian developer Harry Stinson spent more than a year planning to create an event space and a hotel in the terminal, but Central Terminal Restoration Corp. severed negotiations with him in May. The Manhattan-based World Monuments Fund released its 2018 watch list of cultural heritage sites that are threatened by warfare, natural disaster, climate change or urbanization on Monday. This summer the Urban Land Institute recommended the abandoned space be used for events like the ones shown above An original clock stands in the center of the station to help passengers keep track of time while waiting for their trains A photo of a stairwell to one of the platforms shows how the building has been left to decay in the past few decades An interior photo shows graffiti painted on the walls of the station as well as rubble from the collapsing building The beams above one of the platforms appear to be peeling at the elements ware on the complex Greenery surrounding the station has become overgrown in the absence of train traffic, as shown above The Urban Land Institute reported that the Central Terminal could be used to increase the popularity of the Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood in which the building stands The institute concluded that it would be premature to bring in a private developer or plan transformative projects because of the neighborhood's low market value Signage above doors in the terminals directs passengers to the trains and to the offices in the two vintage photographs above A photograph mimicking an optical illusion looks through cutouts in the side of the terminal A sewer cap is marked 1930, the year after the station opened for business The exterior of the building has been worn by the elements, causing oxidization of iron and copper on the facade A close-up photograph shows the rusting on a steel support beam on the side of the building The lights in the interior of the terminal are lit up in the photograph above for an unknown reason in 2017 It is just like Groundhog Day all over again. Bill Murray was out and about in Chicago last week, where the Oscar-nominated actor caught the Cubs take on the Washington Nationals in the National League Divisional Series at Wrigley Field. And as is often the case when Murray is out in public, he managed to stumble upon a couple with a big announcement to make - which he was more than happy to help them deliver. That couple was Robbie Schloss and his wife Kirsten, who along with Murray, let friends, family - and now the world - know that they are expecting this first child in April. Scroll down for videos Cameo: Bill Murray helped a couple announce that they are expecting their first child in a video filmed at a Chicago Cubs game last week (above) Bundle of joy: 'Hey, I got news for you ... youre going to be grandparents!' Murray said in a video recorded for the parents of Robbie and Kirsten Schloss (couple above) Robbie posted a video on his Instagram page which began by showing him and his wife before quickly panning to Murray. 'Hey, I got news for you ... youre going to be grandparents!' Murray says while pointing at the camera. That clip managed to make Robbie's parents cry, he later revealed when he posted the clip to social media. It was also sent off to Robbie's sister Jen, who is travelling in Hong Kong. The couple decided to ask Murray if he would lend a hand with their big announcement after they found themselves sitting right next to the actor behind home plate on Sunday. It was after the Cubs pulled out a win over the Dodgers that they decided to ask Murray if he would be willing to shoot a no-fee cameo in their home movie. Murray happily obliged, as he has done countless times in the past, and when baby Schloss arrives this April the newborn will already have a pretty amazing story to tell his friends. The actor has kept a relatively low profile recently after going on a tear back in 2014, with appearances at a bachelor party and even posing alongside a couple in their engagement photos. The 'Ghostbusters' actor happened upon soon-to-be weds Ashley Donald and Erik Rogers in Charleston, South Carolina, where he lives, and soon found himself snapping pictures with the pair. He endeared himself to the two by walking over and lifting his shirt over his head. Popular: Murray has made a number of appearances like this in the past, appearing in a couple's engagement photo shoot back in 2014 (above) Speech: He also crashed a bachelor party (above) that same year and doled out advice to the young men A few weeks prior to that, the twice-divorced actor offered some words of wisdom to a different groom and his friends at a bachelor party in Charleston. One of the groom's friends spotted Murray sitting downstairs and made a play to get the actor to join the group, Deadspin reported at the time. They asked the waiter to send the actor free drinks, but Murray declined. One of the friends then went up to Murray and asked if he would say a few words to the groom, whose name was EJ. Murray initially said no, but much to the mens' delight, the star emerged and proceeded to dispense with some marriage advice. 'You know how funerals are not for the dead, they're for the living? Bachelor parties are not for the groom, they're for the uncommitted,' he told the unmarried men. 'If you have someone that you think is The One, don't just sort of think in your ordinary mind, "Okay, let's pick a date. Let's plan this and make a party and get married,"' he said. 'Take that person and travel around the world. Buy a plane ticket for the two of you to travel all around the world, and go to places that are hard to go to and hard to get out of. And if when you come back to JFK, when you land in JFK, and you're still in love with that person, get married at the airport.' He then picked up the groom and hoisted him over his shoulder while the men cheered. The owners of a banned pitbull, which savaged an 18-month-old girl in a playpark, have denied being in charge of the dog at the time of the attack. Michael Thornton, 26, and 28-year-old Hayley Eldridge's pitbull-type canine was said to have bitten the little girls face before clamping its jaws around her head in front of several horrified children in Kent. The animal, believed to be called Max, was shot dead by police marksman after the attack on the Jenkins Dale estate in Chatham in April. Michael Thornton, 26, and 28-year-old Hayley Eldridge's pitbull-type canine was said to have bitten the little girls face before clamping its jaws around her head in front of several horrified children in Kent The animal, believed to be called Max, was shot dead by police marksman after the attack on the Jenkins Dale estate in Chatham in April The pair appeared at Maidstone Crown Court in Kent today. They both pleaded not guilty to being the owner of a dog which caused injury to 18-month-old Victoria Resetnjova while dangerously out of control in a public place on April 4. The court heard Thornton and Eldridge, from Chatham, had only owned the dog for a week and believed it to be a lawful Staffordshire bull terrier cross-breed. Prosecutor Catherine Donnelly said that at the time of the attack the dog was in the care of a 15-year-old girl. She has admitted her involvement and is due to be sentenced at Medway Youth Court on October 24. Thornton and Eldridge will not stand trial however until August 13 next year. The case is expected to last up to two weeks. Both were released on bail, with a condition not to contact prosecution witnesses, until a pre-trial review hearing on March 1. The court heard Thornton and Eldridge, from Chatham, had only owned the dog for a week and believed it to be a lawful Staffordshire bull terrier cross-breed Judge Philip Statman said there was a clear public interest in the case, having seen the nature of the injuries inflicted. Little Victoria, then aged 18 months, was playing with her 14-year-old sister Kristina when she was mauled. It was reported at the time that the dog had ripped off her scalp. She was flown to St Georges Hospital in London in a critical condition. Her parents Valentina and Sergei thanked everyone who helped the youngster. But they said the incident had ruined their lives, including those of their two children. Tests carried out on behalf of Kent Police after the dog was shot dead revealed it to be a banned breed under the Dangerous Dog Act. Plastic bags will soon be a thing of the past after a state wide ban will be enforced in Victoria. The state government promised to ban the common single use plastic bags that are used in all shops across the state, including small takeaway stores. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told The Project the state would ban the bags 'as quickly as we can'. Plastic bags will soon be a thing of the past after a state wide ban will be enforced in Victoria Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told The Project the state will ban bags 'as quickly as we can' The move comes after supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths announced their plans to ban their shopping bags in July. At the time, Woolworths said they hand out more than 3.2 billion lightweight plastic bags a year. The bag ban means customers will have to bring their own reusable bags or buy them in store. However, the bag ban won't affect small plastic bags used to carry meat, fruit or vegetables according to News Corp. Heavier plastic bags also won't be banned. 'It's obvious you can't construct a collection system that captures all of the single-use plastic bags,' Boomerang Alliance director Jeff Angel told Fairfax Media. The move comes after supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths announced their plans to ban their shopping bags in July 'We have a serious litter problem which should not be tolerated. 'You go to a landfill and there are bags blowing all over the place.' While no date has been set for the ban, it is believed the new eco-friendly policy will be phased in across the state after discussions with community and business groups. Similar bans are already in place across much of the country including South Australia, Tasmania, ACT and the Northern Territory with Queensland enforcing the ban next year. Experts believe if the entire country enforced the bag ban, plastic bag use would reduce by six billion a year. Pressure is mounting on the British authorities to strip Harvey Weinstein of his honourary CBE after the flood of sex assault allegations. Labour shadow minister Chi Onwurah has written to Britain's top civil servant to urge him to step in and take action. She has asked Jeremy Heywood to follow in the footsteps of the Oscars board, which has expelled the Hollywood producer, and boot him out of the prestigious club. Ms Onwurah, a shadow business minister, said Weinstein has 'fallen far short of the standards we expect from recipients of a CBE'. And she said his expulsion from the Academy 'can be considered directly relevant to his honour' and should encourage official to follow suit and strip him of his title. It comes after Ms Onwurah and several other Labour frontbenchers wrote an open letter to the Prime Minister imploring her to take action. Labour frontbencher Chi Onwurah has written to Britain's top civil servant, Jeremy Heywood , urging that disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein is stripped of his honourary CBE In her latest letter, Ms Onwurah enclosed a 'supporting evidence' to illustrate Weinstein's alleged behaviour. She adds: 'I am therefore writing to you to refer Mr Weinstein to the Honours Forfeiture Committee for consideration of removing his honorary CBE. 'In addition to the allegations referenced in the letter, on Saturday the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences voted to expel Mr Weinstein. One of the criterion listed by the Government for forfeiture of an honour is if the individual in question is 'censured or struck off by a professional or regulatory body for something directly relevant to their honour.' HOW CAN A CBE BE REMOVED? Protocol sees honours forfeited where the person is considered to have brought the system into disrepute. A recommendation can be made by the Honours and Appointments Secretariat to the forfeiture committee to revoke an honour if a person has been found guilty of a criminal offence, and the final decision must be approved by the Queen. High profile cases of people being stripped of their gongs include Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe, who lost his honorary knighthood in 2008 over his 'abuse of human rights' and 'abject disregard' for democracy. Pervert entertainer Rolf Harris lost his CBE in 2015 when he was jailed for nearly six years for a string of attacks on girls as young as seven. Advertisement A recommendation can be made by the Honours and Appointments Secretariat to the forfeiture committee to revoke an honour if a person is guilty of a crime. The final decision must be approved by the Queen. The Oscars board kicked Weinstein out of their club after a string of women accused the Hollywood producer of rape, sex attacks and harassment over many years. Hollywood starlets Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie joined the growing number of women who have accused the Hollywood mogul of sexual harassment and abuse. Mr Weinstein has been accused of raping several women and assaulting or harassing many others during decades of predatory behaviour. Scotland Yard is looking into five allegations of sexual assault by three women against the disgraced Hollywood movie producer in London. Mr Weinstein has been sacked from his film company, dumped by his wife and had seen his reputation ruined after bombshell allegations of his predatory sexual behaviour emerged. More than a dozen women have come forward to tell how they were assaulted or harassed by the movie mogul. He allegedly invited women back to his home or hotel rooms to talk business before stripping and asking them for a massage in a bid to bed them. His wife Georgina Chapman has announced she is leaving him after yet more shocking claims emerged in the US newspapers. Sir Richard Branson considered handing 4million over to a conman who pretended to be Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, it emerged today. The fraudster wrote to the businessman on Government headed notepaper before speaking to him and impersonating the Conservative minister. As part of the bungled scam, Branson was told a British diplomat had been kidnapped and the UK government needed businessmen to pay the ransom. Branson later managed to speak to the secretary of the actual minister, who assured him no such request had been made and the whole thing was a hoax by someone trying to make money. Sir Richard Branson was the target of a conman who pretended to be Defence Secretary Michael Fallon and asked him to donate 4million to a fund to free a kidnapped diplomat But another fraudster was successful in their separate attempt to get 1.5million after impersonating Branson in a plea for money supposedly to help the hurricane-hit British Virgin Isles. Branson wrote online: 'Six months ago my assistant received a written note on what appeared to be official government notepaper from Secretary of State for Defence Sir Michael Fallon, requesting an urgent call with me. 'I called Sir Michael on the number given. He told me it was an incredibly sensitive matter and that he wanted to be sure there was nobody else in the room whilst I talked to him. He asked that we speak in strict confidence and said that a British diplomat had been kidnapped and was being held by terrorists. The conman sounded exactly like minister Sir Michael Fallon, Mr Branson said 'He told me that British laws prevented the government from paying out ransoms, which he normally completely concurred with. But he said on this occasion there was a particular, very sensitive, reason why they had to get this diplomat back. 'So they were extremely confidentially asking a syndicate of British businesspersons to step in. 'I was asked to contribute $5million dollars of the ransom money, which he assured me the British government would find a way of paying back.' Branson said he was told to use the code word 'Davenport' when speaking to officials about the plan. Branson added: 'Although the Sir Michael I spoke to sounded exactly like Sir Michael, I was understandably cautious. 'After I had asked one of my lawyers to go to Whitehall, I rang Downing Street and asked to be put through to Sir Michael's office. His secretary assured me that Sir Michael hadn't spoken to me and that nobody had been kidnapped. It was clearly a scam.' Branson also revealed one of his friends had handed money over another conman who pretended to be him. Branson later managed to speak to Sir Michael's secretary, who revealed the call was a hoax He added: 'A very successful businessperson asked me when I would be returning the three week loan I had asked for to help the BVI communities. I had no idea what they were talking about. 'They told me that they had received an email from somebody claiming they were my assistant, to arrange a call with me. 'When the call happened the conman did an extremely accurate impression of me and spun a big lie about urgently needing a loan while I was trying to mobilise aid in the BVI. 'The business person, incredibly graciously, gave $2 million, which promptly disappeared. 'He is an incredibly generous person who gives to all sorts of causes, and it is just too sad for words that of all people it was he who had fallen for it.' Branson used the two examples to show the lengths conmen will go to and to warn others to take care. HSC students have been ordered to apologise to an Aboriginal author they verbally abused on social media after her award-winning work was featured in their exams. Ellen van Neerven's poem 'Mangoes' featured in English Paper One on Monday with students asked to 'explain how the poet conveys the delight of discovery'. After the exam, several hundred students took to Facebook's HSC Discussion Group after the exam to post vile memes relating to the work. Ellen van Neerven's (pictured) poem 'Mangoes' featured in English Paper One on Monday with students asked to 'explain how the poet conveys the delight of discovery' While some were just frustrated that they didn't understand the meaning behind Mangoes, other memes descended into racial territory - one in particular relating the author to an ape (pictured) Many students reached out to Ms van Neerven on Twitter and Facebook, calling her a host of nasty names (pictured) Chief executive of the NSW Education Standards Authority David de Carvalho criticised the students behaviour online. 'I am appalled by the abuse of the author,' Mr de Carvalho told Fairfax Media. 'This is a completely inappropriate response and I hope those involved see fit to apologise to Ms van Neerven.' Some of those abusers had made a half-hearted attempt to apologise once their actions where called out online but for the most part the memes and tweets were cruel. Some of those abusers had made a half-hearted attempt to apologise once their actions where called out online but for the most part the memes and tweets were cruel Cruel taunts were directed at the indigenous author via her Twitter account (pictured) 'F*** you and your stupid mango bulls***,' another carefully worded tweet directed at Ms van Neerven continued (pictured) Ms van Neerven's friends accosted the young abusers on Twitter (pictured) 'In all honesty there wasn't much to analyse because it reads like a four year old wrote it,' one person wrote. 'F*** you and your stupid mango bulls***,' another carefully worded tweet directed at Ms van Neerven continued. While some were just frustrated that they didn't understand the meaning behind Mangoes, other memes descended into racial territory - one in particular relating the author to an ape. Another replaced the star sign for Cancer as a mango on an astrology chart to infer her poem was a disease. Wild accusations and slurs were hurled at the author on social media this afternoon (pictured) Another replaced the star sign for Cancer as a mango on an astrology chart to infer her poem was a disease (pictured) Close friends of the author stepped in when death threats were allegedly being made towards Ms van Neerven, many of which were saved as 'screenshots' Ms van Neerven's official Wikipedia page has also been edited to mention the furore. Close friends of the author stepped in when death threats were allegedly being made towards Ms van Neerven, many of which were saved as 'screenshots.' Evelyn Araluen, a poet and PhD candidate at the University of Sydney, said she would track down where the students went to school and show their superiors what they had been writing online. 'It doesn't matter how you wanna spin it the behaviour being directed towards Ellen is enormously disrespectful. She's a person,' Ms Araluen wrote. Author Omar Sakr also joined the online discussion by tweeting at the NSW Department of Education, calling on them to investigate the serious nature of the memes. So far Ms van Neerven has not responded to any of the social media attacks. Many came to Ms van Neerven's defence on the HSC Discussion Group (pictured) The incident has now been recorded on Ms van Neerven's official Wikipedia page (pictured) A NSW Education Standards Authority spokesman said exam questions had been set by a committee of experienced English teachers. 'The authors are not advised in advance,' he said. 'They don't know because obviously... for the security and confidentiality of the exam.' The second English exam was held on Tuesday with a new set of questions and stimulus. A businessman accused of killing a 21-year-old bulimic student by selling her toxic slimming pills has today denied manslaughter. Bernard Rebelo, 30, and his partners Albert Huynh, 32, and Mary Roberts, 32, allegedly put food supplements on the market containing the fat-burning chemical dinitrophenol (DNP). At the Old Bailey in London, Rebelo pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and placing unfit food on the market. Huynh and Roberts are due to enter their pleas at a further hearing on 17 November. The pills are said to have caused the death of 21 year-old Eloise Aimee Parry, a Glasgow University student from Shrewsbury in Shropshire who suffered from bulimia. Rebelo, pictured, pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and placing unfit food on the market Huynh (left) and Roberts (right) are due to enter their pleas at a further hearing on 17 November Miss Parry died within hours of being admitted to hospital on 12 April 2015 after texting her university lecturer: I screwed up big time. An inquest in Shrewsbury concluded she died of an accidental drug overdose and the coroner John Ellery said he would be urging a review of the classification of DNP. Rebelo, Huynh and Roberts, who are being prosecuted by the London Borough of Harrow, sat in the dock for a short plea and case management hearing. They are all charged with manslaughter and placing unfit food on the market. Roberts is also charged with money laundering relating to 20,000 in her bank account. The pills are said to have caused the death of 21 year-old Eloise Aimee Parry, a Glasgow University student from Shrewsbury in Shropshire who suffered from bulimia According to the manslaughter charges they acted unlawfully by placing the product on the market, were in gross breach of their duty of care to consumers, and encouraged the product to be consumed as a slimming agent. The trial is due to take place on 30 April 2018. Huynh, of Northolt, West London; Rebelo, of Beckton, east London; and Roberts, of Southall, are all on conditional bail. Spain's top court on Tuesday officially ruled that Catalonia's disputed independence referendum was illegal because a regional law that backed it was against Spain's constitution. The Constitutional Court's decision comes just two days before Catalan President Carles Puigdemont has to officially declare if the region will secede or not. The Catalan regional parliament passed the so-called 'self-determination referendum law' in early September. Spain's Constitutional Court ruled on Tuesday that Catalonia's disputed October 1 referendum was illegal because regional law backing the referendum was against Spain's constitution. Pictured above, Catalan president Carles Puidgemont Spain's Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy (center) gave Carles Puidgemont until Thursday to announce if he was officially declaring independence Regional leaders went on to stage the October 1 referendum on whether the region should separate from Spain. They say the 'Yes' side won and that the result gave the region a mandate to declare independence. Spain's Constitutional Court had earlier suspended the law temporarily while judges assessed the Spanish government's objection to it. In its ruling Tuesday, the court said the law was against national sovereignty and the 'indissoluble unity of the Spanish nation'. The court said that the parliamentary session that approved the law also violated the country's constitution. The ruling was not surprising - Spain's government had already repeatedly insisted the vote was illegal. Tuesday's ruling came a day after a Madrid judge provisionally jailed two Catalan independence leaders, Jordi Sanchez (right), of the Catalan National Assembly, and Jordi Cuixart (left), leader of the Omnium Cultural, in a sedition probe People hold Esteladas (Pro-independence Catalan flag) and papers reading in Catalan "Freedom political prisoners" in front of the Generalitat Palace. The demonstrators protested the judicial decision to imprison Cuixart and Sanchez 'We are facing an executive power in the state that uses the judiciary branch to block the legislative,' Catalan government spokesman Jordi Turull told reporters shortly after the ruling was announced. Catalan President Carles Puigdemont made an ambiguous statement about the region's future last week, saying he has the mandate to declare independence - but would not immediately move to put it into effect to allow time for talks and mediation. Puigdemont now has until Thursday to backtrack on any steps the region has taken toward secession. If he refuses, the central government has said it would invoke constitutional authority to restrict or revoke the areas of self-governance Catalonia has now. Tuesday's ruling came a day after a Madrid judge provisionally jailed two Catalan independence leaders, Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart, in a sedition probe. Barcelona's Mayor Ada Colau, Catalan President Carles Puigdemont and Catalan Government Presidency Councillor Jordi Turull (right to left) stand in front of the regional government headquarters, the Generalitat, during a gathering to protest against the imprisonment of Cuixart and Sanchez Protesters were gathering for a fresh round of demonstrations in Barcelona Tuesday to demand their release The judge ruled they were the orchestrators of massive demonstrations September 20-21 in Barcelona that hindered a police operation against preparations for the October 1 independence referendum. Protesters were gathering for a fresh round of demonstrations in Barcelona Tuesday to demand their release. Some 500 students left classrooms in one of Barcelona's main universities to join the demonstrations. 'We urge the release of our political prisoners and call on Catalan authorities to revoke the suspension of the independence declaration and proclaim the Catalan republic,' said Aina Delgado Morell, a representative of Universitats per la Republica, a pro-independence student organization. Students would keep protests going to 'stop the repression by the Spanish state', she added. It was an institution that helped keep the British public safe for decades and helped bring murderers and rapists to justice. The BBC has decided to axe Crimewatch after 33 years on the air despite some major successes solving brutal and horrific crimes. Thousands of appeals have been aired over the years with millions of viewers tuning in with many doing their best to help the police by giving tips and information. It was first broadcast in June 1984 and went on to have a hand in solving the death of toddler James Bulger, the kidnap of Stephanie Slater and the brutal salughter of mother-and-daughter Lin and Megan Russell. Other criminals it helped bring to justice include the 'M25 rapist' Antoni Imiela and murderer Joel Smith, who shot a seven-year-old girl in 2003 to stop her talking after he killed a fellow drug dealer presumed to be her father. The BBC has decided to axe Crimewatch, now fronted by Jeremy Vine, after 33 years on the air despite some major successes solving brutal and horrific crimes The decision to axe the show has been slammed by Dr Sara Payne, who tweeted: #Crimewatch helped bring my child's killer to justice, it's one of the best ways the public can engage with police in fighting crime. I say no to the #BBC Re #Crimewatch, this public service is worth more than money or ratings! It needs investment not closure! The Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Cressida Dick, praised the success the show has had on catching criminals. She said: 'The Met has been proud to work alongside Crimewatch in mobilising the public to solve hundreds of crimes. A programme that results in victims getting justice is public service broadcasting at its best. 'We are grateful to the entire media when they run our appeals but there is no doubt that Crimewatch with its history, prime time broadcasting spot and high quality reconstructions have been a very important outlet for our appeals. 'Criminals are behind bars right now because witnesses have seen the show and come forward and I would like to thank the Crimewatch team for their professionalism in bringing the appeals to life. Here MailOnline looks at some of the more high-profile crimes over the years that Crimewatch has helped solve thanks to reconstructions, new information and CCTV footage. James Bulger James Bulger died aged two after he was abducted from New Strand Shopping Centre in Bootle, Merseyside, by Jon Venables and Robert Thompson in February 1993. The pair, both aged 10 at the time, took James on a two-and-a-half mile walk across Liverpool to the village of Walton where they tortured and killed him. The crime made the boys the youngest killers in modern English history. Jon Venables and Robert Thompson were caught after CCTV footage, pictured, was shown on Crimewatch of them leading away James Bulger Crimewatch featured CCTV images of both suspects complete with a description, which led to two people identifying Venables and Thompson The duo were subsequently arrested and found guilty of killing James in 1993 The duo - who were playing truant from school - snatched James from outside a butcher's shop in Bootle, Merseyside, in 1993, while his mother popped into a store for just a few seconds. The toddler's mutilated body was found on a railway line in Walton, Liverpool, two days later. Crimewatch broadcast grainy CCTV footage of James being led away by the boys, which saw two witnesses ring in and report they had seen Venables and Thompson with the youngster. The pair were found guilty of killing James in November 1993 and were sentenced to custody until they reached 18. The pair were freed in 2001, both aged 23, but by 2010 Venables was back in prison for violating the terms of his release by possessing child pornography. The family of James, pictured, have criticised the decision to axe Crimewatch and said it will stop criminals being brought to justice Venables, left, and Thompson, right, brutally tortured and killed the child and were later jailed in 1993, being released under new identities in 2001 Milly Dowler Milly Dowler, pictured, was featured on Crimewatch after she was found in woods after being raped and murdered aged 13 Milly Dowler, 13, was abducted and murdered by Levi Bellfield in her hometown of Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, in 2002. She was found raped and strangled in in woods six months after she disappeared on her way home from school. Her body was found in a wood in Yateley Heath, Hampshire - 25 miles from Walton-on-Thames. Crimewatch staged a reconstruction of her disappearance in 2002 but it was unable to produce any results for the investigation. Surrey Police made him their prime suspect in 2008 and he was eventually found guilty of the murder in 2011. Bellfield, 47, who now calls himself Yusuf Rahim, was given a whole-life prison sentence in June 2011 for the brutal slaughter of the teenager, but only admitted killing her four years later. Bellfield only confessed when an investigation was launched in to whether he had an accomplice, after he bragged to a fellow prison inmate about his crime. Crimewatch aired a reconstruction of Milly's disappearance, pictured, but it was unable to produce any results But he has since denied ever making that 'confession'. A book by Milly's sister Gemma released earlier this year revealed their mother battled anxiety, depression and very dark thoughts after the death and even contemplated a 'suicide pact' should Bellfield not have been found guilty. Lin and Megan Russell Mother-of-two Lin Russell was brutally killed alongside her daughter Megan, six, in a savage attack with a hammer in Chillenden, Kent, in July 1996. The pair were tied up alongside the family dog and bludgeoned to death by Michael Stone. Lin's elder daughter Josie, nine, miraculously survived the frenzied attack and has since gone on to become an artist living in Wales. Lin Russell, pictured with daughter Josie as a child, was brutally murdered in Kent in July 1996 by Michael Stone Also killed in the vicious hammer attack was her daughter Megan, right, with the pair tied up along with the family dog and bludgeoned to death Stone, pictured, was arrested after his description was matched to a Crimewatch appeal by a psychiatrist Crimewatch aired a reconstruction of the vicious killing the next year which featured a description of the attacker. A psychiatrist then got in touch with the show to report it matched that of Stone and he was subsequently arrested and jailed for 25 years, although he has always denied the crimes. He was found guilty after drug addict and convicted murderer Damian Daley gave evidence for the prosecution, telling the court how Stone had confessed to him in prison. The murderer, from Chillenden, Kent, had his original conviction quashed in 2001 but he was found guilty for a second time at retrial, and is currently serving three life sentences. Stephanie Slater/Julie Dart In January 1992, estate agent Stephanie Slater was kidnapped at knifepoint after meeting a prospective house buyer around a property in Birmingham. She was taken to a warehouse 100 miles away in Nottinghamshire and kept hostage for eight days in a cramped wooden coffin until a 175,000 ransom was paid by her employer Shipways estate agency. Crimewatch aired a piece on her kidnapping a month later that included a tape of the kidnapper's voice. Stephanie Slater, right, was kidnapped by Michael Sams, who was brought to justice after a Crimewatch appeal featured a clip of his voice that was recognised by his ex-wife Susan Oake. Also pictured is Teena Sams, then wife of Michael, comforting Ms Slater Sams, pictured, who had one leg, was jailed for life for the kidnap and the murder of Julie Dart in 1991 It was recognised as one-legged repairman Michael Sams by his ex-wife Susan Oake, who reported him for the offence. Details about Sams given to police by Ms Slater after she was released also led them to link him to the murder of prostitute Julie Dart in 1991. He had abducted her from Leeds and taken her to his workshop in Newark, Nottinghamshire, where he killed her before dumping her body in Lincolnshire where it was found a few days later. Sams went on trial and was convicted of the kidnap and murder charges in 1993 and was jailed for life. Ms Slater died at her home on the Isle of Wight last month from cancer, just days after an initial diagnosis. A close friend said Ms Slater never got over her ordeal and feared Sams would one day be released on parole. Bertram and Toni-Ann Byfield Joel Smith, pictured, was jailed for 40 years for the murders of Bertam Byfield and seven-year-old girl Toni-Ann Byfield. A court heard he was so scared by a Crimewatch appeal on his crime he called his girlfriend and said 'They have everything' Drug dealer Joel Smith is currently serving 40 years in prison after a double murder in 2003. The killer shot rival drug dealer Bertram Byfield three times in his bedsit in Kensal Green, London, before turning the gun on seven-year-old girl Toni-Ann Byfield and killing her too. The girl, who was believed to be Bertram's daughter but was later found not to be related to him, was trying to flee the scene and Smith killed her to stop her being a potential witness to his crime. Smith fled to Liverpool and after two years of police being unable to track down the killer, Crimewatch aired a fresh appeal in September 2005 including details about Smith, whom detectives had been tipped off about. They only knew his street name, 'Cocaine' or 'Caine', and that he was in the Liverpool area. But fortunately for the Met associates of Smith's turned him in after the episode went out and he was convicted of the double murder in August 2006. During his trial the court heard he 'jumped up and turned off the television' after watching Crimewatch, later telling his girlfriend on the phone 'They've got everything!' He was given a recommended minimum sentence of 40 years, one of the longest ever suggested jail terms in English legal history. Bertram, left, was a rival drug dealer to Smith and believed Toni-Ann was his daughter, although tests subsequently proved this was not the case Antoni Imiela A spate of rapes between November 2001 and November 2002 in Surrey, Kent, Berkshire, London, Hertfordshire and Birmingham led to the attacker being dubbed the 'M25 rapist' due to the motorway passing through all but one of the locations. Antoni Imiela, pictured, was dubbed the M25 rapists for his spate of sex attacks between November 2001 and November 2002 Crimewatch aired an appeal on the attacker in October 2002, a month before the final rape, and information supplied by the public led to Antoni Imiela's arrest in December. A neighbour of Imiela's flagged concerns about him after seeing the appeal which caused police to act. The German-born former plasterer had previously been sent to a borstal aged 15 for robbery and had gone to commit several more armed robberies before the rapes. Around 350 officers took about 10,000 calls from the public in response to appeals for information and more than 3,500 men were DNA-tested in the course of the entire investigation. He was sentenced to seven life sentences at Maidstone Crown Court. In 2012 he was convicted of a historic rape on Christmas Day in 1987 and told he was unlikely to ever be released. Sarah Payne Sarah Payne was eight when she was abducted and killed by convicted paedophile Roy Whiting in West Sussex in July 2000. She had been playing near her grandparents' home in West Sussex on a summer evening in July when she was preyed upon by Whiting. Crimewatch carried out two appeals later in 2000 and members of the public came forward to name Whiting as prime suspect in both. Crimewatch featured a reconstruction of Sarah's disappearance with her grandfather giving a timeline of what happened Sussex Police also appeared on the programme to give information out for the appeal Her parents, Sara and Michael, went on to campaign for the implementation of what came to be known as 'Sarah's Law', which would see parents notified if a paedophile moved into their area. Whiting was sentenced to life behind bars in January 2001, in what became one of Britain's most high profile child murder cases. His 50 year jail term was later reduced to 40 years after an appeal. It later emerged that Whiting was already on the Sex Offenders Register after abducting and sexually attacking another eight-year-old. Sarah had been with her siblings but ran ahead of them, dipping through a gap leading to a lane on the edge of the field and was never seen alive again. In the few seconds she was out of sight, she was snatched by Whiting and bundled into the back of his van. Whiting smiled and waved at Lee as he drove away. Sarah Payne, left, was murdered by Roy Whiting, right, in July 2000 and he was caught after two Crimewatch appeals saw the public name him as prime suspect The alarm was raised when Luke, Lee and Charlotte returned to their grandparents' house and Sarah wasn't there. Sarah was found dead two weeks later. Paedophile killer Roy Whiting denied stealing away Sarah Payne but damning forensic evidence and the little girl's abandoned shoe would see him jailed for 50-years. A solitary nine-inch blonde hair belonging to the eight-year-old was discovered on a red sweatshirt in the back of Whiting's white Fiat Ducato van. The chance of that hair not being Sarah's was a billion to one, forensic expert Ray Chapman said. FURY AT DECISION TO AXE CRIMEWATCH 'JUSTICE' The decision to cancel the show has caused outrage among families of the victims, with James Bulger's step-father Stuart Fergus branding it 'utter madness'. Mr Fergus, charity manager at The James Bulger Memorial Trust for families who have suffered bereavement and bullying, said: 'I'm shocked that after all those years it's come to an end. Not only was it very informative it also helped people to look after themselves and their homes. 'The whole point of the programme was for cases where they needed the public's help to catch perpetrators. 'I think there will be uproar from other families. At the end of the day the BBC do what they want, they don't care about anyone.' Father-of-three Mr Fergus from Kirkby, Merseyside, said: 'It's utter madness. 'Crimewatch is an institution - it was there to help bring justice for James. 'I remember it as a kid, as soon as you heard the starting music you knew what it was and what time it was. 'It's an informative programme not a documentary or a soap that's on three to five days a week - it's on every couple of months and has helped solve cases. 'I'm quite shocked that a programme like that is getting cancelled. It seems to be a cost-cutting exercise, they need to go back and put their thinking caps on. 'I hope at least that another network takes it on.' Advertisement ...And five cold cases the BBC show was never able to find the answers to Jill Dando Jill Dando was actually a presenter on Crimewatch at the time of her death in 1999, having joined the show in 1995. The broadcaster was shot in the head on her doorstep in Fulham and was instantly killed. Crimewatch subsequently aired a reconstruction of her death but the official investigation proved fruitless for a year. Jill Dando, left, actually presented Crimewatch up until her murder in 1999. She is pictured alongside former co-presenter Nick Ross The show also reported neighbours saw a white man, aged 30 to 40, about 5ft 10in tall with black hair leaving the scene. In 2001 Barry George, who lived near Ms Dando and had a history of stalking, was convicted of her murder, but by 2007 his conviction was quashed on appeal and a retrial found him not guilty. The case remains open and although numerous theories have been presented, including that her killers were part of a Serbian gang or professional assassins, no other suspect has ever been prosecuted. Kate Bushell was murdered in 1997 but no killer was ever brought to justice Kate Bushell The 14-year-old schoolgirl was murdered in November 1997 while walking her neighbour's dog near her home in Exeter, Devon. After she did not return home, her parents called police and her body was later found in a field with her throat cut. Crimewatch aired an appeal in January 1998 but no substantial leads came from it. Reports suggest a 'bloodstained man' was seen running from the area near where her body was found but no suspect has ever been caught. It has been suggested a forensic technician's clothes contaminated evidence with fibres found on the body and a suspect later eliminated from the investigation. Suzy Lamplugh Estate agent Suzy Lamplugh vanished in July 1986 after going to meet a client recorded in her diary as 'Mr Kipper' in Fulham. Despite Crimewatch putting out an appeal she was never found and was declared dead in 1994. Suzy Lamplugh, left, has never been found since disappearing in in July 1986, with the Met Police (Supt Nick Carter pictured right) appealing for information on Crimewatch to no avail Police believe she was most likely abducted and murdered and were even tipped-off about a potential burial site in a Worcestershire meadow in 2010. In 2002 the Metropolitan Police even named a prime suspect - John Cannan - a convicted killer who was jailed for a 1987 murder. But he has always denied the killing of Ms Lamplugh and there is no forensic evidence linking him to the crime. Jessie James Schoolboy Jessie James, 16, was killed in a drive-by shooting in Manchester in September 2006 while cycling across a park. He had been with friends at the time of the attack but they all scattered after the shots rang out and Jessie ended up riding in the direction of the shooter. Police treated his death as a case of mistaken identity having ruled him out as being part of a gang. Jessie James, pictured, was shot dead while cycling with friends in a park in Manchester in 2006, with his killers never brought to justice Crimewatch got involved in December 2006, airing an appeal to little public reaction, with officers believing a lack of witnesses is down to fear of reprisals. CCTV footage later showed two hooded youths cycling away from the park and two men, then aged 20 and 21, were arrested in August 2007 over the murder. But no charges were ever brought forward and it remains a cold case. Claudia Lawrence Police spent 1million investigating the disappearance of Claudia Lawrence in 2009 but despite Crimewatch getting involved she has never been found. The BBC programme showed CCTV footage of a white van seen in the area police wanted to trace. Claudia Lawrence, pictured, went missing in March 2009 and has not been seen since, with officers still investigating the disappearance today The 35-year-old chef went missing in York in March 2009 after speaking to her mother on the phone, giving no indication there was anything wrong. Her family have never had any answers even though it was at one point believed convicted killer Christopher Halliwell may have been involved although he is believed to have been in Swindon on the night she vanished. Police have begun scaling back the investigation into her disappearance eight years on, although her family have vowed to continue their search for the truth. A 62-year-old man accused of raping his stepdaughter after forcing her to marry him when she was 11 denied sexually assaulting her in court last week, saying that they 'made love' over the 19 years that he held her in captivity. Henri Piette was arrested in Mexico earlier this month and was extradited back to the US to face charges for child sex abuse. He is accused of keeping Rosalynn McGinnis, now 33, captive for 19 years after abducting her from her school in Poteau, Oklahoma, 1997, after breaking up with her mother. At the time McGinnis was 12 but she says she had already been abused by the man, who was engaged to her mother, for at least a year and she had been forced to 'marry' him when she was 11. In June 2016, McGinnis fled the filthy tent where she had been living in captivity with their nine children in a rural Mexican town and sought help. She identified herself as Piette's victim in an interview with People magazine in August where she described how Piette raped her repeatedly. But last Thursday, Piette said she and the children he fathered with her were 'lying' and had been 'manipulated' to speak against him. Video from KOKI Fox 23 Henri Piette (above in court on Thursday) denies raping his 11-year-old stepdaughter he forced to marry him in the 1990s, saying that the pair 'made love' instead Piette abducted Rosalynn McGinnis when she was 12 and took her from Poteau, Oklahoma, to Mexico where he forced her to live as his wife. She is pictured with him on her 13th birthday when he threw her a quinceanera Seemingly oblivious to the fact she was a child when they married, he told Fox Oklahoma 23: 'I made love to my wife. We were married.' He insisted that he never raped any of their children and described '99 percent' of the charges against him as 'lies'. 'I'm telling the truth,' Piette said, adding later that his children were involved in the Mexican mafia and 'don't like' him. McGinnis, now 33, escaped with her children in June last year. She has since told how Piette subjected her to daily sexual abuse, beatings and torture Piette is charged with lewd molestation, first degree rape of a victim under the age of 14 and child abuse by injury. Prosecutors say he deliberately tried to evade police by moving around Mexico and changing his name several times over the past 20 years. McGinnis was nine when her mother started dating Piette. He began sexually abusing her during their relationship, she said. McGinnis was 12 when Piette took her from her school in Poteau, Oklahoma, in January 1997 During her 19 years in captivity, McGinnis had nine children. She shared this photograph of them during an interview with People in August when she waived her right to anonymity to speak out against Piette When she was 11, she said she was forced to 'marry' him in the back of a van in an illegal ceremony that was performed by one of his own children, a boy who was 15 at the time. In 1997, her mother broke up with Piette because he had been beating her. He retaliated by snatching Rosalynn from school and going on the run. McGinnis said that before taking her to Mexico, they traveled through the US. She claims he introduced her to his children as their 'new mother'. In Mexico, she said she was subjected to daily sexual assault or rape and had nine children as a result. Piette was arrested earlier this month in Mexico and was extradited back to the US where he now faces charges of rape and child abuse. He is pictured in court last week She claims they lived under the radar and that no one in Mexico suspected him of wrongdoing until she confided in a woman who lived near their tent in 2016. That woman then found a missing person's poster from 1997 with Rosalynn's name on it. In June 2016, she fled their tent with eight of the nine children she had with Piette and used a pay phone in Oaxaca City to contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). They were then put in touch with the US embassy to be taken back to the US. Rosalynn's mother has never been publicly identified. It is not known if the pair have been reunited since she returned to America last year. At Piette's hearing last week, federal prosecutors dropped their charges against him to allow him to be prosecuted by the state. Inmates at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center in Chicago are suing Fox, claiming they were locked up their dorms for days so that the show Empire could film in 2015. Empire filmed the first two episodes of its second season at the juvenile hall, which focused on main character Lucious Lyon's (Terrence Howard) fall from grace. Fox tried to get the lawsuit thrown out, arguing that they were not responsible for the lockdown, but U.S. district judge Amy J. St. Eve ruled on Monday that it could proceed against the network on two points. Inmates at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center in Chicago are suing Fox, saying they were unjustly pent up in their cells and 'pods' so that the show Empire could film there in 2015 Above, the juvenile hall where the show filmed two episodes of its second season St. Eve wrote in her decision that there was enough evidence spelled out in the lawsuit for the case to move forward on the basis that Fox may have 'colluded' with the jail officials to cause the lock down and that they may have unjustly profited from it. Empire was a hit during it's first season, so it's season two premiere and second episode were highly anticipated. The network charged $750,000 for a 30-second ad in the premiere and $600,000 for the same amount of ad time in the second episode. The lawsuit was filed last year by the legal guardians of two of the inmates. Fox filmed the first two episodes of the second season at the jail, prompting three days of lockdowns so the crew could work. During these lockdowns, inmates were only allowed in their rooms or their 'pods' - dormitory-style common areas in the middle of a group of cells. They weren't allowed to go outside to the recreation yard, read in the library, pray in the chapel or even take classes in the school. Family visits were cancelled and their requests to go to the infirmary were also ignored, the lawsuit claims. Being forced to stay in their pods 'for days on end' was a restriction 'more severe than those governing many adult jails,' the lawsuit reads. The inmates involved in the class-action lawsuit initially claimed that Fox infringed on their due process rights, but St. Eve said Fox would not be held responsible for such violations. That case continues against Cook County officials however. The detention center has made headlines in the past for it's troubles. In 2015, the Chicago Tribune wrote that the center has a 'reputation for being crowded, unclean and poorly staffed'and that it was often 'blasted as a depot where children were locked up in violent, unsanitary, overcrowded conditions. Jeffrey Barry, who has paranoid schizophrenia, killed Kamil Ahmad hours after being released from psychiatric unit This is the chilling moment a killer made a 999 call saying 'I just killed Kamil...I need to be arrested.' Paranoid schizophrenic Jeffrey Barry, 56, was today found guilty of murdering his neighbour Kamil Ahmad in a 'savage and sustained' knife attack lasting more than 40 minutes. The gruesome attack in Bristol in July 2016 ended with Barry chopping off the Kurdish refugee's penis. Barry had denied murder but admitted manslaughter by diminished responsibility at Bristol Crown Court. But a jury unanimously convicted him of murder after two hours of deliberations at the end of the two-week trial. The court heard Barry held a long-standing grudge against Iraqi-born Mr Ahmad and had called police weeks before, claiming he was a rapist, a paedophile and a terrorist in Iraq. He murdered Mr Ahmad in the knife attack at a supported property for people with mental illnesses hours after being released from a psychiatric hospital. The court heard psychiatrists had opposed Barry's release, but a mental health tribunal ruled he should be discharged. In the three years before the attack, Mr Ahmad had complained to police four times that Barry had assaulted him Police today released the recording of the call Barry made within minutes of the stabbing. He calmly phoned 999 and told the operator what he had done. He accused Mr Ahmad of committing a number of crimes, adding: 'So that's why I attacked him. 'I warned the staff. I warned them. I warned the crisis team. They ignored me. He's dead now.' He went on: 'I'm covered with blood. There's blood splattered everywhere in the room. Classed as murder, innit?' The call handler could he heard asking a colleague to send an ambulance before Barry said: 'But I'm going to say diminished responsibility.' During the trial, the jury was told he had written notes stating his intention to kill people in the shared supported housing unit where the pair lived In the lead-up to the murder, Barry had been sectioned and treated at a psychiatric intensive care unit after allegedly threatening to kill Mr Ahmad. During the trial, the jury was told he had written notes stating his intention to kill people in the shared supported housing unit where the pair lived. He told support workers at the accommodation they shared in Bristol that he wanted to be a notorious murderer and Mr Ahmad was top of his hit list. Weeks before the killing at the victim's flat, Barry told police in a phone call he thought Mr Ahmad was a rapist, a paedophile and a terrorist in Iraq. He earlier told a psychiatrist he could hear the devil's voice telling him: 'Kamil must die...he is a very bad man.' He also displayed 'bizarre' over-sexualised behaviour, including masturbating naked in communal areas. Despite that he was discharged the day before the brutal knifing after promising a mental health tribunal he would not drink. Barry ended the call at 1.26am, and appeared on CCTV footage three minutes later, emerging from his flat shirtless but wearing trousers with a knife in his pocket CCTV footage on the night of the murder showed Barry leaving the flat in the early evening on July 6, 2016. He spent several hours drinking at Charlie's Bar in Wells Road and Long Bar in Old Market before returning to the flat just before midnight. Footage captured him leaving the flat at 1am, wearing just his pants, and making a telephone call in the hallway. He rang a mental health crisis helpline and told the operator he was criminally insane and was not responsible for his actions. He ended the call at 1.26am, and appeared on CCTV footage three minutes later, emerging from his flat shirtless but wearing trousers with a knife in his pocket. He then walked upstairs and knocked on Mr Ahmad's door. His victim opened the door and Barry went in before emerging 42 minutes later with blood visible all over his clothes. He then walked back down to the hall, dialled 999 and told the operator he had killed Mr Ahmad. Home Office pathologist Dr Amanda Jeffery examined Mr Ahmad's body and found injuries to his face, head and neck. There were 25 stab wounds to his face, including his eyes, and fatal stab wounds to his stomach, right arm and left wrist. Mr Ahmad's penis had been cut off after his death. Police found notes in Barry's flat including this one saying 'I'm extremely psychotic' Mr Ahmad fled persecution and imprisonment in Iraq, and as a result of his experiences there was diagnosed with severe mental health difficulties. He arrived in the UK in 2011 seeking protection. Mr Ahmad's family and friends said he had been let down by several agencies in the city, and Mr Ahmad had made repeated warnings about feeling threatened by Barry but was ignored. In the three years before the attack, Mr Ahmad had complained to police four times that Barry had assaulted him. Mr Ahmad's interpreter, Adil Jaifar, said he had worked with the victim for several years and that at weekly therapy meetings he attended with Mr Ahmad, he always talked about how threatened he felt by Barry. Ahmad's brother, Kamaran Ahmad Ali, said after the verdict: 'Kamil was a much-loved brother, uncle and cousin. If he had been protected by the authorities, he would be alive today. Why was he not protected? We must have an answer to that question.' The family's solicitor, Tony Murphy of Bhatt Murphy, described the murder as 'preventable'. 'The evidence heard at trial points to a systemic, multi-agency failure to protect a known victim of violent race hate crime from a known perpetrator,' he said. 'The family ask the authorities to be open about their failure to protect Kamil so that other lives can be protected.' After the verdict Detective Chief Inspector Richard Ocone said: 'Barry may have a history of serious mental illness but at the time he attacked Kamil he knew exactly what he was doing. 'The public are now much safer with him off the streets for he is an exceptionally dangerous man.' Alex Raikes from the campaign group Stand Against Racism and Inequality (Sari) said more help should have been available for Mr Ahmad. 'We're seeing cutbacks where we're seeing agencies losing more and more resources, more and more front-line resources, some of our most vulnerable people are even less safe,' she said. 'That means that we, as the voluntary and charitable sector, have got to step up and we've got to do more than we ever have done before to be the eyes and ears of people who are so vulnerable, and Kamil was one of those individuals.' A spokesman for Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust described the murder as 'tragic and brutal'. 'We remain committed to close co-operation with all agencies in an effort to prevent such an event happening in the future,' he said. John Hoskinson, chief executive of the Milestones Trust, said an internal review was being conducted, as well as other investigations. 'We do understand this is a very difficult time for those involved but are unable to comment further until the results of these investigations are known,' Mr Hoskinson added. Judge Mrs Justice May will sentence Barry on November 10. A video shows the moment four rescuers save a 200-pound 85-year-old tortoise from wildfires that are decimating California. A search and rescue team found the animal in need of evacuation at a remote location in Napa County on Friday. Four people, including two veterinarians Dr. Sonder and Dr. Fisher, lifted the massive tortoise onto a tarp and then transferred it into a wheelbarrow to save its life. Four rescuers lifted a massive tortoise onto a tarp and then into a wheelbarrow to save it from the California wildfires Napa County Animal Animal Services relocated the tortoise, according to Napa Valley Equine, an animal hospital. The rescuers had to use a wheelbarrow to move the tortoise because it was trapped on a property with limited road access. Firefighters have been able to partially contain wildfires that killed at least 40 people in the past week, the deadliest blazes in California's history. It took four people to save the tortoise in Napa County, California Winds have eased and searchers are combing charred ruins for more victims with hundreds still missing. Two of the three most destructive Northern California fires were more than half contained early on Monday. Over 5,700 structures were destroyed by more than a dozen wildfires that have been blazing for a week and consumed an area larger than New York City. The Atlas fire is 65 percent contained, but 74 people remain missing. Former BBC producer Alexander Parkin is in court on drug dealing charges after police found a stash of illegal substances at his flat An award-winning ex-BBC Radio 3 producer fled across rooftops when police raided his London flat which was packed with drugs, a court heard. Alexander Parkin, 42, stashed more than 13,000 worth of drugs - including crystal meth, ecstasy and GBL - and offered them for sale at his fourth fourth-floor flat in Manchester Street, Marylebone, it is claimed. Parkin and suspected drug dealers Bogdan Ceampelea, 27, and Ioana Costache, 28, were caught with 6.82 litres of GBL - known as 'liquid ecstasy' - following a search on 28 September last year, a court heard. Officers then found more than 11,000 worth of class A, B and C drugs hidden in hollowed out candles, concealed cupboards and a safe at Parkin's flat. The Oxford graduate, who won nine Sony awards for his work with the BBC, insists the narcotics were for 'personal use' and says he bought them in bulk to save money. But prosecutors claim they were 'were intended to be sold or certainly would have been sold if the opportunity arose' on London's gay 'chemsex' scene. Parkin and Costache are standing trial for possession of drugs with intent to supply at Southwark Crown Court. Mr Ceampelea, a former Transport for London worker, was due to stand trial alongside them, but he died on September 11. Ioana Costache (left) is also standing trial. Bogdan Ceampelea (right) was due to stand trial but has since died Prosecutor Karl Volz told jurors: 'There is a third man who unfortunately as you can see from the agreed facts died on the 11 September this year. 'He also was involved we say in this enterprise in relation to drugs. 'For the large part these drugs are part of what's broadly known as the chemsex drugs scene, a club scene which is closely - at least by association - related to the gay community in clubs in London.' When officers broke down Parkin's door on September 28 last year, he wriggled through a ceiling hatch and escaped with Ceampelea and Costache, jurors heard. The trio ran across rooftops and made it down to the street using scaffolding on a nearby building as police struggled to break down the heavy door with a metal battering ram and crow bars, it is said. 'There was a relatively sophisticated entry system there, in fact the door took a long time to bash down,' explained Mr Volz. 'Most normal doors wouldn't take that long for the police to bash down, there may have been some sort of reinforcement there.' Parkin and two others fled his home in this central London street when police arrived As officers tried to gain entry they heard 'numerous people moving around quickly', jurors heard. 'Police shouted open the door but to no effect,' added Mr Volz. Hours later all three suspects were arrested with 6.82 litres of GBL in a Volvo near Parkin's two-bedroom flat on Kennington Park Road, Vauxhall, south London. Jurors were told the class C drug is used legitimately as an alloy cleaner and solvent and although it was never intended for human consumption it is 'the chemsex drug of choice'. During the police raid in November, officers found 12g of crystal meth, 19 tablets and 133.3g of powdered MDMA and six litres of GBL hidden around Parkin's flat. A number of bank statements and documents in Parkin's name and five weighing scales covered in traces of white powder were also found. Mr Volz said: 'Why? For what purpose? We all have, no doubt, weighing scales in the kitchen for cooking purposes. It's to weigh out drugs for dealing, we say.' Parkin was questioned at Belgravia Police station and said the drugs were for personal use When Parkin was arrested and interviewed at Belgravia Police Station, he said: 'The drugs found today at my property belong to me and are mine for personal use. 'I take drugs daily just to make me feel normal so that I can function. I buy the drugs in bulk as it works out much cheaper - a fraction of the price.' The defendant said he used the weighing scales 'to find out exactly how much I'm buying and how much I'm using'. Parkin, who previously worked on Radio 3's World Routes programme, denies five counts of possessing drugs with intent to supply. Two of the charges relate to class A drugs, one relates to a class B drug, and the final two relate to class C drugs. Costache, of Greenwich, south-east London, also denies one count of possessing a class C drug with intent to supply. The trial continues. Judge investigated: Michigan's 39th District Court Judge Catherine Steenland, 51, is being investigated in connection to a suspected DUI hit-and-run crash that occurred on September 25 A Michigan district judge with a history of DUI is being investigated for allegedly striking a car carrying a man and his daughter, and then fleeing the scene of the accident. James Nielsen, 30, of St Claire Shores, Michigan, says he was driving north on Gratiot Avenue in Roseville with his nine-year-old, Elliana, in the backseat of his blue 2010 Chrysler 300 at around 8.20pm on September 25 when a woman in a red Dodge Charger sideswiped him. I was beeping the horn. It didn't get her attention. She looked back at me and then floored it. I followed her to the end of the street, got her license plate, called 911 and then she took off again, Nielsen told WXYZ. According to Nielsen, the female motorist in the red Dodge appeared intoxicated and was seen swerving in the road and driving erratically. Nielsen followed the Dodge to a house in Roseville, where the woman parked in the driveway and went inside. The Detroit Free Press reported that police officers who responded to the scene spoke to a man who came out of the residence and then called for a tow truck to impound the damaged vehicle. Victim speaks: James Nielsen, 30 (left), says he was driving with his young daughter in Roseville when a woman, believed to be Judge Steenland, sideswiped his Chrysler causing $7,000 worth of damage (right) Days after the collision, which Nielsen said left him with a chipped tooth, back pain and about $7,000 in damage to his car, he learned from the local police that the driver of the vehicle that struck him was 39th District Court Judge Catherine Steenland. The Roseville Police Department has since turned the case over to the Michigan State Police. A spokesperson for the MSP confirmed earlier this month that his agency received the complaint against Judge Steenland and was handling the investigation. As of Tuesday morning, she has not been charged with any crime. Nielsen told C&G Newspapers that even before he learned Steenland's name, he got an inkling that the person who had allegedly hit him was 'someone of importance' when the local police handed his complaint over to the state police. The incident took place on Gratiot Avenue in Roseville, Michigan, on the night of September 25 Nielsen had his nine-year-old daughter (left) riding in the backseat, but the girl was uninjured Steenland, 51, who has served as an elected judge in Roseville for nearly 15 years, has been on medical leave since July 21 for a back surgery, but was scheduled to return to work on Tuesday. This is not Steenland's first run-in with the law: in June 2008, she was charged with DUI after she drove into a ditch in Ogemaw County. After telling a Michigan state trooper that she only had a couple of beers and was not drunk, Steenland, then aged 41, failed four sobriety tests, including multiple attempts to recite the alphabet, reported The Macomb Daily. Lab test results later revealed that her blood alcohol content was three times the legal limit for driving in Michigan. Steenland pleaded guilty to the DUI count and was sentenced to six months of probation; she was also ordered to enter an alcohol highway safety program and pay a total of $800 in prosecution costs, fines and fees. The Michigan Supreme Court also suspended her from the bench for three months without pay. Steenland was first elected to the District Court in Roseville in 2002. She won re-election last November to another six-year term, which runs through 2023. She is the wife of Roseville City Clerk Richard Steenland. The driver of a semitrailer packed with at least 39 immigrants, 10 of whom died, pleaded guilty Monday to making the deadly smuggling run. James Matthew Bradley Jr., 61, pleaded Monday in federal court in San Antonio to one conspiracy count and a count of transporting the immigrants resulting in death. He faces up to life imprisonment when he's sentenced on Jan. 22. The Clearwater, Florida, man could have faced the death penalty had he gone to trial. Scroll for video James Matthew Bradley Jr., left, arrived at the federal courthouse for a hearing in San Antonio. Bradley, the driver of a semitrailer packed with almost three dozen immigrants, pleaded guilty on Monday Police officers at the scene after 39 immigrants were discovered in this truck at a Walmart in Texas in the July heat. Ten of those being trafficked died Authorities say at least 39 immigrants, most of them Mexicans, were packed into the sweltering trailer found by San Antonio police last July in a Walmart parking lot, although court records show that surviving immigrants estimated that between 70 and 180 to 200 people were carried in the trailer during the transport. The truck's refrigeration system wasn't working, and investigators say passengers had difficulty breathing as temperatures climbed. Temperatures in San Antonio topped at 101 degrees that day. A co-defendant, Pedro Silva Segura, 47, still faces two conspiracy counts, including one of conspiracy to transport and harbor undocumented immigrants for financial gain resulting in death. The Laredo, Texas, man also is charged with two counts of transporting undocumented immigrants resulting in serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy. He remains in custody in Laredo without bond awaiting transfer to San Antonio. No trial date has been set. Officers laying police tape at the scene of the deadly human trafficking incident in July One of the men that were inside the truck said people inside the hot trailer were crying and begging for water 'Today's admission of guilt by Mr. Bradley helps to close the door on one of the conspirators responsible for causing the tragic loss of life and wreaking havoc on those who survived this horrific incident,' said Shane Folden, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in San Antonio. Bradley initially had denied knowing anyone was inside the trailer, telling investigators that the trailer had been sold and he was transporting it for his boss from Iowa to Brownsville, Texas. But he said he had driven to Laredo, Texas, and stopped twice there before driving back to San Antonio, in the opposite direction from Brownsville. Thomas Homan, the acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said he was saddened to hear these kind of tragedies still occurred after the last big human trafficking incident in 2003 when a truck was found 120 miles southeast of San Antonio with 19 dead migrants. 'It is sad that 14 years later people are still being smuggled in tractor-trailers,' he said. 'There still isn't water, there still isn't ventilation. These criminal organizations, they're all about making money.' Big rigs emerged as a popular smuggling method in the early 1990s amid a surge in U.S. border enforcement in San Diego and El Paso, Texas, which were then the busiest corridors for illegal crossings. Before that, people paid small fees to mom-and-pop operators to get them across a largely unguarded border. As crossing became exponentially more difficult after the 2001 terror strikes in the U.S., migrants were led through more dangerous terrain and paid thousands of dollars more. Women, some carrying children, think they are less likely to be raped on a truck than in the open desert because there are more witnesses, Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, a political scientist who teaches at University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley, said. Riding in a big rig, she said, is 'the VIP treatment.' The people inside the tractor-trailer were found in the early hours in July after one of them approached a Walmart worker in the store parking lot and asked for some water. The employee gave the person the water and then called police, and when officers arrived they found the ten people dead in the back of the trailer, police Chief William McManus said. Investigators checked store surveillance video, which showed vehicles had arrived and picked up other people from the tractor-trailer, police said. McManus called the case 'a horrific tragedy'. A criminal complaint found a degree of sophistication and organizational muscle: passengers had color-coded tape to split into smaller groups; and six black SUVs awaited them at one transit point to bring them to their destinations. ICE released a statement saying the deaths are a 'stark reminder of why human smuggling networks must be pursued, caught and punished'. Anthony Scaramucci, Donald Trump's former communications chief, believes the President is a 'political genius' who won the election by using Twitter. Speaking at the Oxford Union last night, Scaramucci, 53, who was sacked by Trump after just 11 days at the White House, said his former boss won despite Hillary Clinton's bigger budget because he had better ideas. 'He is way more thoughtful, more of a person who doesn't want to bring about wars than you would think,' Mr Scaramucci said. '[Mr Trump] was outspent by Clinton by 1.7 times, she had 2.4 times more personnel than us. It's not clear to me that the money is as important as ideas,' he told students. Defence: Anthony Scaramucci, pictured, Donald Trump's former communications chief, believes the President is a 'political genius' who won the election by using Twitter. Trump fan: Speaking at the Oxford Union last night, Scaramucci, 53, who was sacked by Trump after just 11 days at the White House, said his former boss won despite Hillary Clinton's bigger budget because he had better ideas. The former spokesman defended the President's controversial use of Twitter, blaming his outbursts on staff who have not left him 'well defended'. 'I firmly believe that President Trump, without the tool of Twitter, likely would not have won,' he said. 'When the president feels he's well defended, his tweets are more focused on public policy. 'When he feels he's not well defended, you get things like Mika's face lift,' he added. He was referring to one of the President's provocative tweets in which he claimed that he once saw Mika Brzezinski, an American television presenter, 'bleeding badly from a face lift'. Mr Scaramucci also defended himself, claiming that his unusually short period of service came as no surprise. 'The moment I was declared, the knives got longer and longer,' he said. 'I didn't think I'd last more than 30 to 60 days in the role.' Despite his sacking by Donald Trump, 'The Mooch' says the President is a political genius and not a sociopath. In a reconciliatory tone, Mr Scaramucci concluded: 'We have major, major polarisation and we need major, major collaboration.' He also reached out to the gay community: 'Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness wasn't meant just for straight people, but everybody.' In the notorious telephone conversation with the New Yorker that led to Mr Scaramucci being removed from his post, he vowed to fire every single one of his employees until he discovered the source of several high profile leaks. He also said that Steve Bannon, President Trump's former chief strategist, was 'trying to suck [his] own c***,' and said that the former chief of staff, Reince Priebus, was a 'f****** paranoid schizophrenic'. The Oxford Union has hosted a vast number of high profile figures over the decades. Names to watch out for this term include rocker Jimmy Page, Monica Lewinsky and diver Tom Daley. Dashcam footage has captured the incredible moment a car drives up onto a footpath, narrowly missing a cyclist before re-entering traffic at high speed. According to ACT Police, the video was taken on September 24 at around 1.20pm on Northbourne Avenue in Canberra's city centre. It shows a black Land Rover attempt to escape the southbound traffic by driving at top speeds onto the footpath, travelling for at least five seconds outside of their designated lane. There is a white taxi near where the black car is illegally driving and they narrowly avoid a collision (pictured) A white taxi leaving a driveway narrowly avoids a collision as the other vehicle swerves onto the footpath. The Land Rover continues on its chaotic path, heading straight towards a cyclist casually riding down the pavement. Before reaching the cyclist, the car quickly veers back onto the road, merging hastily with oncoming traffic. The vehicle manages to clip two cars on its way back into the lane. Before reaching the cyclist the car quickly veers back onto the road, merging hastily into oncoming traffic (pictured) It is believed the car had been stolen from a house in Gungahlin on September 17, authorities said (pictured) It is believed the car had been stolen from a house in Gungahlin on September 17, authorities said. Police are hoping by releasing the footage someone will remember the incident and come forward with information. Anyone with information on the incident has been asked to contact ACT Policing Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, quoting reference number 6155730. Killer Anthony Shore, pictured, is due to die tomorrow night on death row in Texas having raped and murdered four victims The sister of pedophile killer Anthony Shore has admitted he should die tomorrow night on death row. Anthony Shore, who was known as the Tourniquet Killer, strangled four young girls between 1986 and 2003. His sister Laurel Scheel believes that the serial killer deserves to die. He is scheduled to die tomorrow night by lethal injection at the death house in Huntsville, Texas. Ms Scheel told the Houston Chronicle: 'He should be killed. He was a good brother, but he's not a good person.' Shore, 55, lost an appeal to the Supreme Court to put a stay on his execution. He was put onto death row in 2004 after being convicted of the rape and murder of four girls. Authorities had his DNA on file because he was a registered sex offender who molested two young female relatives. He was only caught after investigators ran the DNA gathered from the earlier cold cases against the register where they found a hit. He is known in Houston as the 'Tourniquet Killer' because his victims were tortured and strangled with handmade tourniquets. The slayings connected to Shore went unsolved for years until DNA evidence linked him to the sexual assault of two relatives who were juveniles. He subsequently confessed to the killings and was convicted in 2004 in the slaying of 21-year-old Maria del Carmen Estrada. Her body was found in 1992 in the drive-thru lane of a Dairy Queen. Shore's lawyer, Knox Nunnally, had hoped his client's death sentence could be reduced to life in prison. He has said Shore suffered from traumatic brain injury. Anthony Shore is due to die tomorrow in the death chamber in Huntsville, Texas, pictured Shore will be executed by lethal injection tomorrow evening if there is no 11th hour stay According to prosecutors: 'Shore admitted to raping and murdering 21-year-old Maria del Carmen Estrada in 1992 after DNA evidence linked him to her capital murder. Estrada was raped and her nude body was left in the drive-thru of a Spring Branch Dairy Queen. Shores other victims included fourteen-year-old Laurie Tremblay in 1986, nine-year-old Dana Rebollar in 1994, and sixteen-year-old Dana Sanchez in 1995. All were raped, tortured, and murdered by Shore.' He escaped justice for almost two decades. Harris County DA Kim Ogg said Shore is 'a true serial killer, a person deserving of the ultimate punishment'. She continued: 'His crimes were predatory, and his victims the most vulnerable in society- women and children. For his brutal acts, the Death Penalty is appropriate.' A mother claims a young child sexually abused her five-year-old son after luring him behind a shed. The mother claims her son told her another boy wanted to play a game at the Adelaide kindergarten, before performing a sex act on him, 7 News reported. 'He told me that the boy had made him pull down his pants because he wanted to play a game,' the boy's mother said. A mother claims a young child sexually abused her five-year-old son (pictured) after luring him behind a shed at kindergarten 'He told me that the boy had made him pull down his pants because he wanted to play a game,' the boy's mother (pictured) told 7 News 'I was in complete shock and disbelief thinking "is this really true?"' The young boy also claimed the other boy hit and bit him. The mother reported the incident to staff who allegedly told her son that he needed to make better friendships. While no charges were laid because the five-year-old is too young, it was reported there were other claims of the same boy assaulting other children at the kindergarten. While no charges were laid because the five-year-old is too young, it was reported there were other claims of the same boy assaulting other children at the kindergarten Two more boys were allegedly attacked last week prompting the kindergarten to send a letter to parents asking them if their children had been exposed to inappropriate behaviour. The concerned mother pulled her five-year-old son out of the kindergarten but told 7 News she was cautious of what her son had been introduced to because she also has a daughter. The education department reportedly provided a refresher course teaching child care workers how to recognise sexual behaviour in young children. Vaughan Charles Morrill, 35, was arrested and charged after ambushing Las Vegas police at his home Las Vegas police released the shocking footage of an officer firing at a man who charged at him wielding what appeared to be a hand-gun. Vaughan Charles Morrill, 35, of Missouri, was shot at five times when he rushed officers in his home after a domestic disturbance call. As the officers open the door to exit Morrill's home, they were met by the suspect who is heard saying 'Die b****!' before shots are fired. Morrill survived his injuries and was taken to the hospital where he underwent surgery. It appears Morrill had been planning his bout with police. Just 26 minutes before shots were fired, Morrill posted a Facebook status that read, 'Don't cheat ladies. I would like to say f*** the police and the US government. Goodbye and love for all the good people left' According to police, Morrill also sent a text to his brother 15 minutes before the incident saying, 'I'm going to be in a better place shortly'. Investigators said they are not ruling out a possible 'suicide by police' attempt. Body camera footage begins with the officers speaking to Morrill through an intercom system as the man threatened and harassed the cops As officer Julien Pappas, 38, exited the home he was met by Morrill who held a gun. The officer shot at Morrill five time, hitting him once Police were responding to a call by Morrill's girlfriend on the night of October 11. The girlfriend reportedly asked for protection while she went to collect her belongings from Morrill's home for fear that he would harm her. In the beginning of the video, Morrill is heard communicating with police through the an intercom outside of the home. Morrill spews profanities at the officers, calling them 'white pieces of s***' and taunts them saying, 'yeah you're really strong with that gun aren't you?' The officers concluded that Morrill wasn't home and communicated with them from another location using a cell phone. Morrill returned home about 45minutes later around 8:30pm and rammed his truck into the back of an unmarked and unoccupied police car before getting out and shooting the patrol vehicle with a handgun. Morrill posted a Facebook status just 26 minutes before shots were fired saying 'f*** the police and US government' Morrill was taken to a hospital where surgery was performed and he's reported in stable condition The suspect was wielding a BB gun which appeared to be a real hand gun As officers opened the door to exit the home, the suspect yelled 'die b***' and charged at the officers holding a gun. It was later discovered the suspect wielded a BB gun. Officer Julien Pappas fired five rounds at Morrill, striking him once. Morrill was immediately apprehended by the cops and taken to the hospital. He allegedly punched a firefighter while being transported in the ambulance. Morrill is in stable condition and Officer Julien Pappas, 38, has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of a review of the incident. Charges including two counts of assault on a protected person with a deadly weapon, battery by prisoner, tamper with vehicle damage over $5,000, domestic battery and coercion with force or threat of force. This has been the 19th officer-involved shooting in 2017, compared to last year at this time where there were six cases. Patrick Keniry has been jailed for a third time for impersonating vets and carrying out operations on animals A fantasist who repeatedly impersonated a vet has been jailed for a third time for operating on animals without a licence. Patrick Keniry, 59, has no qualifications to perform the role but used the identity of a registered vet to secure a job in Taunton, Somerset. He worked at the respected practice for two years, during which time he carried out a number of procedures and treatments on animals, including surgery. His work resulted in the death of just one cat on the operating table but, astonishingly, his bosses said they were 'relatively happy' with his work, Taunton Crown Court heard. Keniry pleaded guilty to one count of fraud and one count of practising without a veterinary licence. He was jailed for three years. It is his seventh conviction for impersonating a vet and his third jail sentence. Judge David Ticehurst described Keniry as a 'fantasist' and said he had 'caused the veterinary profession great harm, both professionally and financially'. The court heard Keniry, who came to the UK from South Africa in 1998, had committed a total of 13 offences of this nature whilst in the UK. He assumed the name of an actual registered vet to get a job at this Taunton vets practice He has been convicted five times in this country, as well as twice in South Africa for practising as an unregistered vet. He was last jailed for ten months in Swindon in 2011. He has given four different names and four different dates of birth during his various court appearances, the court heard. He underwent some training in South Africa but fled his country after syndicating photos of police brutality in the 1970s, the court was told. He applied for his latest job under the name of Michael Evans and was paid 40,000 in wages in the two years he worked there. It is the seventh time Keniry has impersonated a vet and a judge said he shows no signs he will stop doing it Starting in the summer of 2015, he had also been living rent free in a flat above the practice for the total value of 7,700. Neil Treharne, prosecuting, said: 'He applied for a job at the practice and was originally employed on a locum basis, and he seemed to do well. 'Staff said that at times he seemed a little rusty, but he said it was because he had been practising in Australia.' Keniry, of Swindon, was caught after an investigation by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons on May 2 this year. 'When it came to light that Keniry was not who he said he was, staff were surprised and shocked,' Mr Treharne added. Judge Ticehurst said: 'This was money that, if they had known you were not qualified, you would not have obtained. 'You deceived the veterinary practice and you deceived all of your clients there. 'I think that you are a fantasist who will carry out these offences as often as you can get away with it.' A Texas man was rescued from a 15-foot-deep manhole after being trapped at the bottom for about six days. Jason Courtney, 40, had no food or water and was unable to move after falling into the manhole. Courtney suffered a broken ankle after he cut across a grassy area under the South Sam Houston Parkway and fell into the hole, according to ABC13. Jason Courtney (left in the hospital, and right), 40, was rescued in Houston after being stuck in a 15-foot-deep manhole for about six days Courtney suffered a broken ankle after he cut across a grassy area under the South Sam Houston Parkway and fell into the hole (pictured) Around 3am on Monday, Courtney heard construction workers nearby and screamed for help. It took firefighters about an hour to rescue the man using a tripod, ladder and a harness Around 3am on Monday, Courtney heard construction workers nearby and screamed for help. It took firefighters about an hour to rescue the man using a tripod, ladder and a harness. He told rescuers he had been there 'for a few days'. 'We did use a ladder to get down there to him, once we got our men down there, we pulled our ladder out of there and pulled him up,' Senior Captain Josh LaCour with the Houston Fire Department told KPRC 2. Police said that Courtney was homeless and had been living under the bridge nearby. But at the time, Courtney said he was on his way to his father's house when he fell, according to ABC. Courtney said he had been screaming for help for several days after his cell phone was washed away by the water. 'I did not want to die laying in a bunch of sewage water,' said Courtney. His parents said the last time they had heard from their son was on October 6. They said they called around looking for him, but were unable to locate him. Courtney suffered a broken ankle and was taken to a local hospital where he underwent surgery on his foot. Courtney (pictured) had to undergo surgery on his foot after it was broken in the fall but he said he was thankful for the people who rescued him First responders (pictured) gave Courtney water and chips before he was taken to the hospital Public Works officials said flooding from Hurricane Harvey might have caused the cover to come off the hole. Courtney (pictured being placed on a gurney) said that the city should require the covers to be checked weekly to prevent this from happening to someone else First responders gave Courtney water before he was taken to the hospital. 'He was very fragile his head was slumped down where he was tired, they gave him chips and water,' witness David Rodriguez told KPRC 2. From his hospital bed, Courtney said he was thankful for the people who rescued him. 'I want to thank the people that found me,' said Courtney, adding that the covers need to be checked weekly to prevent this from happening to other people. Public Works officials said flooding from Hurricane Harvey might have caused the cover to come off the hole. Officials said they are working to replace missing manhole covers. Anyone who sees a missing cover should call 311. Advertisement Incredible postcards of an infamous exotic dancer who was convicted and executed by the French during World War One for being a German spy have re-emerged 100 years after her death. A series of postcards from the early 1900s show Mata Hari posing in a variety of vibrant colours for a series of postcards sold in Paris. In other photos, Hari - the stage name adopted by Margaretha Zelle - can be seen pulling different poses from her dancing routines for a photoshoot commissioned in 1906. Hari was executed by a French firing squad on October 15, 1917, condemned as a sultry Dutch double agent who supposedly caused the deaths of thousands of soldiers during World War I. A century ago, on October 15, 1917, an exotic dancer named Mata Hari was executed by a French firing squad, condemned as a sultry Dutch double agent who supposedly led tens of thousands of soldiers to their death during World War I. Hari - the stage name adopted by Margaretha Zelle - was an exotic dancer before becoming a double agent A series of postcards from the early 1900s show Mata Hari posing in a variety of vibrant colours for a series of postcards sold in Paris. In other photos, Hari can be seen pulling different poses from her dancing routines for a photoshoot commissioned in 1906 Before becoming a double agent, Hari built a dance repertoire on the sensuous temple dances she had observed in Asia and burst on to the scene in Paris in 1905. How she got to the glittering salons and theaters of Paris and Berlin before ending up in front of a firing squad was due mainly to desperation as much as boldness. Her comfortable youth was disrupted when her father went broke and her mother died. At age 18, she answered an ad placed by an aristocrat military officer seeking a wife. Soon, she was living in the Dutch East Indies, in what is now Indonesia. The couple had two children despite her husband's violence and unfaithfulness and her own fiery, flirtatious personality. After their son died, the marriage disintegrated and her ex-husband refused to pay alimony. Hari, facing being a single mother without financial support, gave up custody of her daughter and in 1903 left for Paris, where she reinvented herself. 'I am tired of struggling against life,' she wrote. The choice she saw was to 'be a decent mother or live life as it is dazzlingly offered to me here.' Lourens Oldersma, who edited a book of Mata Hari's letters published late last year, said 'she evolved from being a flirt into the woman that started living this loose, decadent life'. Before becoming a double agent, Hari built a dance repertoire on the sensuous temple dances she had observed in Asia and burst on to the scene in Paris in 1905. She had her breakthrough performance at the Paris Musee Guimet on March 13, 1905, and soon became a sensation across Europe Posing as a Javanese princess of Hindu birth, Hari took the Paris social scene by storm. She mixed in wealthy circles, with rumoured relationships with politicians, bankers and wealthy businessmen, and was viewed by many as giving a respectable and artistic face to exotic dancing. When her career was in decline, she decided to become a double agent in WWI She had her breakthrough performance at the Paris Musee Guimet on March 13, 1905, and soon became a sensation across Europe. Often pictured naked below the waist and not afraid to flaunt her body, the most popular part of her routine was said to have been the slow removal of items of clothing until she wore just a bra and jewellery. Many see this as one of the first examples of the modern-day strip tease. Posing as a Javanese princess of Hindu birth, Hari took the Paris social scene by storm. She mixed in wealthy circles, with rumoured relationships with politicians, bankers and wealthy businessmen, and was viewed by many as giving a respectable and artistic face to exotic dancing. By the time that war broke out, though, Hari's career was in decline. But the brilliant life she envisioned was expensive to maintain, especially as she got older and her popularity as an exotic dancer declined. She began veering toward being a courtesan and away from dancing, performing for the last time in 1915. When World War I broke out, Hari used her passport from a neutral country to continue traveling and took wealthy, well-connected lovers from all sides of the conflict. The promise of a steady supply of francs to support herself persuaded Hari to accept an offer to spy, first for Germany and then for France French intelligence eventually intercepted a German telegram discussing the work of an agent codenamed H-21. The details revealed Mata Hari as a double agent two-timing France. She was arrested while having breakfast in her suite at the Elysee Palace Hotel She was rumoured to have had several high-profile relationships with politicians, military personnel and other powerful men, and it was one of these relationships that would signal the beginning of the end for her. When World War I broke out, she used her passport from a neutral country to continue traveling and took wealthy, well-connected lovers from all sides of the conflict. The promise of a steady supply of francs to support herself persuaded Hari to accept an offer to spy, first for Germany and then for France. French intelligence eventually intercepted a German telegram discussing the work of an agent codenamed H-21. The details revealed Mata Hari as a double agent two-timing France. She was arrested while having breakfast in her suite at the Elysee Palace Hotel. During 16 interrogation sessions, she cracked and admitted to working for the Germans. At 41, she was shot at a military ground close to Paris at dawn on October 15, 1917. Her story is told by author Michael Carroll in his new colourisation book Retrographic. Carrol said: 'When her Russian lover, the pilot Captain Vadim Maslov, was shot down and blinded over Germany, she was told by the German authorities that the only way she would be permitted to visit him was if she spied on France. On a canal close to her childhood home, where vicious winds and icy temperatures can freeze the water for months, a statue erected in 1976 shows Mata Hari in her typical stage regalia Various identification documents of Margaretha Zelle, also known as Mata Hari, are on display at the Fries Museum in Leeuwarden, Netherlands 'Ironically, she was already employed by the French to spy on one of her admirers, the German Prince Regent Wilhelm, the son of the Kaiser Wilhelm II and an army general. Mata Hari the double agent aroused the suspicions of both sides. 'In 1915, she was briefly arrested while in England by British counter intelligence, MI5. The French laid a trap the following year by feeding her six names of agents all working for the Germans, and one of these suspected as a double working for both sides. 'When the Germans executed the double agent soon afterwards, Mata Hari was arrested and tried for espionage.' No one came to claim her body and so it was donated to the Paris school of medicine, with her head being preserved at the Museum of Anatomy. The question of who Mata Hari really was defies easy answers. One year she refused to pose naked for a painter, the next she slept with men for money. The verdict on whether the secrets she gained from her lovers' lips' doomed thousands of young Allied soldiers continues to be debated. During an inventory of the museum nearly 20 years later, however, the head had mysteriously vanished, with no indication as to where it is today. On a canal close to her childhood home, where vicious winds and icy temperatures can freeze the water for months, a statue erected in 1976 shows Mata Hari in her typical stage regalia. Dressed in little more than pearls and veils, she stands with legs apart and arms outstretched, ready to take on the world. Striking images like these are featured in British author Michael D Carroll's new book on the colourisation of historical images. The campaign in favour of gay marriage has surged in the polls, leaving the 'No' camp needing three in every four remaining votes to win the survey. New figures show 59 per cent of voters are now in favour of same-sex marriage, setting the 'Yes' campaign up for success. The Newspoll survey found only 38 per cent of those who had already cast their vote had ticked 'No', the Australian reports. A snap poll revealed the Yes campaign had grown to dominate results with 59 per cent of voters in favour of same sex marriage For a late turnaround in outcome, at least three in every four of the remaining votes will need to be against the change. While 'No' votes had gained ground recently thanks to a high number of older voters, the poll showed there were still too few to cause a significant impact. More than 67 per cent of eligible voters have returned their envelopes so far, with 10.8 million people having their say, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The special Newspoll survey found only 38 per cent of those who had already cast their vote had ticked No, the Australian reports Among the 1583 poll respondents, a majority of 56 per cent indicated they were in support of same sex marriage, which was one point less than last month. 'No' votes had gone up by three points. The older generation proved more efficient in returning their marked surveys, with 71 per cent of people aged 50-64, and 74 per cent older than 65. Among the 1583 poll respondents, a majority of 56 per cent indicated they were in support of same sex marriage While only 57 per cent of those aged 18-34 and 63 per cent aged 35-49 have so far returned their vote. Of those who were yet to cast their decisions, 19 per cent indicated they would definitely vote, and six per cent said they would probably vote. Now that 65 per cent of votes have been cast, and 38 per cent have voted No, those opposing the change have roughly 25 per cent of all possible votes. In order to break into the majority, the 'No' campaign would need to secure around 74 per cent of the remaining 35 per cent of votes not yet submitted. A funny video has emerged of a construction worker scream in pain as one of his colleagues pulls out his front tooth. The footage, shot on Monday in London, shows a man tying a string around his colleague's tooth to pull it out. The man said that he was at work when one of his front teeth was really hurting. 'Me and the team decided it would be quick and easy to pull it straight out with strong string,' the man explained. The tooth was removed successfully, but not without pain. As his friend yanked it out with one strong pull, the man screamed and doubled over in pain. But he quickly started to laugh again and he could even be heard asking his friend who was filming the ordeal to send it to him on WhatsApp, the messaging app. The man wearing the blue helmet had an aching front tooth while at work on a building site so his colleague tied a strong string around it and yanked it out in one quick pull A stable-owning model who got her mother to pose as a 91-year-old millionaire to pull off an 'audacious' 1.2million property scam has only 375 left, a court heard. Laylah De Cruz, 32, urged Dianne Moorcroft, 63, to change her name by deed poll to convince estate agents and solicitors she was the owner of a vacant 3m house in Kensington, London. Moorcroft obtained a British passport and a Dubai resident's permit in the name of the true owner, 91-year-old Margaret Gwenllian Richards, and arranged for the property sale. The crooked mother-of-two helped secure a 1.2m bridging loan against the three-bedroom property before a buyer was found, and the money was transferred to Dubai. It was later withdrawn in cash. Laylah De Cruz, 32, (pictured) who got her mother to pose as a 91-year-old millionaire to pull off an 'audacious' 1.2million property scam has only 375 left, a court has been told De Cruz, a Dubai-based stable owner and model, encouraged her mother to take part in the scam after being 'dazzled' by fraudster Karl Cronin's money, fast cars, and jewellery. He did not stand trial and remains at large. She was jailed for five years while her mother was imprisoned for five years after they were both convicted of conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation earlier this year. Laylah De Cruz (left) urged her mother Dianne Moorcroft (right) to change her name by deed poll to convince estate agents and solicitors she was the owner of a 3m house in Kensington De Cruz blew a fortune on her luxury lifestyle and claims she only has 375 to her name A confiscation hearing at Southwark Crown Court was told De Cruz only has 375 left. Moorcroft has less than 2,000 in a Nationwide account available to hand over. Prosecutor Teresa Hay said: 'The value the Crown submits of benefit should be the full 1.2million. De Cruz claimed she encouraged her mother to take part in the scam after being 'dazzled' by alleged fraudster Karl Cronin's money, fast cars, and jewellery. He did not stand trial and remains at large 'But the available amount in respect of Ms Moorcroft is simply to the value of a Nationwide Building Society account which as of this morning amounts to 1,928.55.' In respect of De Cruz, Ms Hay said the position was 'slightly different.' She blew a fortune on her luxury lifestyle and claims she only has 375 to her name. Ms Hay told the court today that neither woman 'were the architects or principle beneficiaries' of the fraud, adding 'there would be some significant interest in [Cronin] if he came back to the UK'. Confiscation proceedings in her case were adjourned until December 7 to allow De Cruz the chance to get representation and give evidence, which in the end may not be challenged by the prosecution. Moorcroft, from Blackpool, was ordered to repay 1,928.55 within 28 days or face a one-month jail term on top of the three years sentence she is currently serving. Former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci is in a new kind of hot water after his mysterious 'Scaramucci Post' tweeted a poll asking how many Jews perished in the Nazi Holocaust. The poll offered four options, ranging from 'less than one million' to 'more than 5 million.' The Holocaust, also known as the Shoah, was a genocide that claimed the lives of two-thirds of Europe's Jews 6 million in all. The 'Scaramucci Post,' an ambiguous new media project launched last month by Anthony Scaramucci, shocked the political Twitter universe on Tuesday by polling its readers about how many Jews were killed in the Nazi Holocaust Scaramucci is a former White House communications director Scaramucci himself was in the United Kingdom when the controversy was sparked Tuesday morning. He addressed the Oxford Union on Monday night, calling President Donald Trump a 'political genius' and insisting that 'he's definitely not a sociopath.' The Holocaust death survey vanished less than two hours after it appeared. Lance Laifer, a Scaramucci partner and fellog hedge fund manager, took responsibility for the shocking Holocaust poll It's unclear exactly what the Scaramucci Post is, although the investment banker and former White House official announced its launch just weeks ago. Scaramucci told a New York radio interviewer this month that his news outlet would 'be about what is right and wrong in the society right now, as opposed to what is left and right.' He added that he would occupy 'the center lane,' discussing 'how we can make the society better.' The former Trump aide kicked off his ambiguous project with partner Lance Leifer, who like Scaramucci is a hedge fund manager. Leifer has also spearheaded Wall Street efforts to raise money to fight malaria and pneumonia in the Third World. And it was Leifer who took the blame for posting the Holocaust exercise. Laifer apologized for the survey and deleted it, but not before it rocketed around the social media universe 'This poll was put up by @lancelaifer without consulting @Scaramucci who is traveling in London. The poll has been taken down,' the Scaramucci Post tweeted. 'The intent of the poll was to highlight ignorance of the basic facts of the Holocaust. I take full responsibility for it,' Leifer added in another tweet. And distancing Scaramucci himself further from the horrifying misstep, he tweeted: 'This is @lancelaifer and I apologize if anyone was offended by the Holocaust poll.' Leifer, 52, isn't a social media novice. GQ profiled him last year, crediting him for managing a Twitter account for Broadway and TV actor Taye Diggs. Diggs is known among the Twitterati for the unusual habit of following 500,000 people on the platform about as many as follow him. Leifer said he is engaged in trying 'to synthesize social media management with business plans.' Scaramucci was in the United Kingdom when the controversy erupted; he addressed the Oxford Union on Monday night CNN anchor Jake Tapper reacted harshly to the Holocaust poll The Anti-Defamation League weighed in, demanding that the Scaramucci Post delete its poll Tuesday's Holocaust poll drew swift condemnation. 'What the actual f is this, @Scaramucci?' tweeted CNN anchor Jake Tapper. MSNBC host Chris Hayes echoed him: 'What the holy hell is this?' The Anti-Defamation League blasted the Scaramucci Post for asking how many Jews died at the hands of Adolf Hitler's deadly regime. 'This question is beyond resolved @scaramuccipost. Take it down,' the organization tweeted. The ADL's CEO, Jonathan Greemblatt, said in a statement that the poll 'could play into the hands of Holocaust deniers.' Neallie Junior Saxon III, 22 months old, was struck and killed after chasing a ball into the street in Florida Sunday Authorities in Florida say a woman who accidentally struck and killed a young boy who ran into the street was later dragged from her SUV and beaten by the victim's family members. According to the Broward Sheriffs Office, 22-month-old Neallie Junior Saxon III was playing with other children in a Deerfield Beach neighborhood at 4.30pm on Sunday when he chased a ball into the street. A 2007 four-door Hyundai Santa Fe SUV going east in the 300 block of Northwest Fourth Place struck the boy, knocking him to the ground. Police say the driver was going the speed limit but possibly distracted by other children in the street. Deputies say the driver was apparently unaware of what had happened and continued on her way. When she braked at a nearby stop sign, several unidentified people, believed to be related to the mortally injured toddler, confronted her, pulled her from the SUV and proceeded to beat her. 'They beat her unmercifully,' witness Anthony Clay told Local10. Saxon was airlifted to a Fort Lauderdale hospital, where he died from his injuries. Scroll down for video Officials say the toddler was shorter than the bumper of this 2007 four-door Hyundai Santa Fe SUV, whose driver likely did not see him Investigators say the driver was going the speed limit but was possibly distracted by children in the street Broward Sheriffs spokeswoman Gina Carter said Neallie was shorter than the bumper of the SUV and the driver likely could not see him. The driver who hit and killed the boy was also hospitalized, suffering from fractures to her face and head. Caroline Chery, Neallie's grandmother, disputed the claim that her grandson was playing outside without supervision A press release from the sheriff's office said that witnesses told detectives that the kids often played outside without adult supervision, as they were on Sunday - a claim that Neallie Saxon's grandmother, Caroline Chery, vehemently disputes. 'Anybody will tell you, they don't play in the road,' she told the station. Investigators believe the ball rolled or was thrown out of the yard causing several children, among them Neallie, to chase it into the street. The children were at a nearby home celebrating the 10th birthday of Chery's other grandson. Neallie would have turned two in December. His grieving mother posted a selfie with the toddler on her Facebook page Monday, calling the 22-month-old her 'pride and joy.' 'Never would I thought I'll be sending my baby boy to Heaven,' wrote the mom-of-four. 'Be that's Guardian Angel that God has sent you to be. Russian president Vladimir Putin is launching his own version of Bitcoin to ensure his government receives tax from the profits of people using cyber currencies. The CryptoRuble will be launched in the coming weeks and will be the only cryptocurrency legal to use for Russian citizens. The decision to launch the new currency - which will use Russian designed encryption - is designed to prevent people avoiding tax. Profits on CryptoRuble transactions will be taxed at 13 per cent. Anyone who cannot explain the origins of their cyber wealth will have to pay 13 per cent on the entire amount. Vladimir Putin has authorised the creation of a Russian online currency called the CryptoRuble The Russian government wants its own cyber currency in an effort to stop tax evasion Putin authorised the new online currency after a meeting with his Communications Minister Nikolay Nikiforov. Nikiforov told Russia Today: 'I am so confident to declare that we will run CryptoRuble just for one simple reason: if we dont, our neighbors in the Eurasian Economic Community will do it in a couple of months.' He said the new Russian currency will enable the government to tackle the problem of tax evasion. He continued: 'When buying and selling a CryptoRuble, the rate will be 13 per cent from the earned difference. If the owner cannot explain the reason for the appearance of his CryptoRubles, when converting them into Russian rubles, the tax for him will be 13 percent of the total.' His colleague Oleg Fomichev said international investors will be allowed to use CryptoRubles once they are launched. He added: 'This mustnt be a private currency, but the one, which is issued by the state, controlled by the state and enable to provide circulation of digital money in light of the digital economy.' Advertisement A Malibu mega-mansion has broken a real estate record for the most expensive house in the beach city's market after it was listed for $85million. The 15,500 square foot home, designed by Scott Gillen, has been dubbed 'The New Castle,' a name well-suited for the house that boasts two lavishly-furnished properties on an idyllic Malibu bluff. The main living quarters consists of five bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms, surrounded by views of the Pacific. It also comes with a custom teak wine and cigar room, which includes 440 bottles of Napa Valley wine and a ventilation room for a cigar lounge - all handcrafted for $1 million. Mega mansion: A 15,500 square foot property dubbed The New Castle situated on an idyllic bluff , has hit the Malibu market for a whopping $85million, According to the listing, a home of this size and splendor can never be built again due to 'anti-mansionization codes' that were recently established in Malibu The lavish main living quarters consists of five bedrooms and five and half bathrooms, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Pacific The open space layout was built with 80-year-old dry aged oak floors and floor to ceiling glass walls Gillen, who has been a developer in Malibu for more than 30 years, is known for his open-space design concept. Pictured above is the open layout of the kitchen which flows into the living space The home includes palatial furniture such as a custom 12-foot Hand-Hewn teak dining table that connects to a custom kitchen designed by German company Bulthaup The open space layout contains 80-year-old dry aged oak floors and floor to ceiling glass walls. According to the listing, a home of this size and splendor can never be built again due to 'anti-mansionization codes' that were recently established in Malibu. The fully furnished house, includes palatial furniture such as a custom 12-foot Hand-Hewn teak dining table that connects to a custom kitchen designed by German company Bulthaup. The living room has a one-of-a-kind 31 foot Minotti couch, which sits on top of a plush hand made rug that was custom designed. It is also billed as the ideal home for privacy, situated at the end of a cul-de-sac on a Malibu Crest Drive, with a 400-foot-long private double gated driveway. The adjacent guest home is just as opulent, consisting of 4,000 square feet, two bedrooms, two and half bathrooms, complete with a professional gym and spa. Pictured here is just one of the five bedrooms in the main house, with floor-to-ceiling windows that look over the Pacific Ocean Gillen also created the custom-made, black Walnut matte finish tub in the giant, pristine Master Bathroom (pictured) The opulent wine room and cigar lounge cost over $1 million dollars just to assemble. The designer refers to this room as, 'a glass Rubix Cube in the center of the home where every pane lines up perfectly, allowing you to see through to your very own ocean view' The custom teak wine and cigar room (left) includes 440 bottles of handpicked Napa Valley wine and a ventilation system. Pictured right is a vast office/study space, with minimalist windows It is also billed as the ideal home for privacy, situated at the end of a cul-de-sac on a Malibu Crest Drive, with a whopping 400-foot-long private double gated driveway Outdoors, a 75-foot three-sided infinity edge pool cascades into a two-story waterfall down the side of the house that can be viewed from the screening and gaming room off the lower deck. The property, listed by Sandro Dazzan & Brittany Monforte of Coldwell Banker and Branden Williams of Hilton & Hyland,was designed with a 'green' philosophy, containing 'sustainable living features' such as lifelong anti-mold insulation to handle ocean air, a butterfly sanctuary, organic paint, and even includes a Tesla charging station. Even down to the more minor details the home proves to ooze luxury, with its hand-built, hand-painted, and hand-sanded beams. Unvarnished founder and designer Scott Gillen secured the giant plot of land for $9.7M in 2015, after the previous property, a 'Scottish-style' castle owned by Persian socialite Lilly Lawrence, burned down. Her father Reza Fallah was an adviser to the Shah of Iran who fled the 1979 Islamic revolution. Gillen, a developer who has been based in Malibu for more than 30 years, has designed homes for celebrities and boasts a portfolio of 23 properties in 13 years. Malala Yousafzai has begun life at Oxford - but has been targeted by trolls for apparently wearing 'jeans', heeled boots and a bomber jacket during her first weeks at the university. The Nobel laureate, who almost paid with her life at the hands of a Taliban gunman for speaking out in favour of women's educational rights, has been criticised for swapping her shalwar kameeze for skinny jeans. In an unverified photograph published in Pakistan, the 20-year-old activist is apparently seen complementing her jeans with ankle high boots and a bomber jacket. Abuse: Malala Yousafzai (pictured) has seen her first weeks at Oxford greeted with an internet barrage of hate for her apparent choice of western clothing donning skinny jeans, boots and a bomber jacket Student: Malala has been targeted by trolls for apparently wearing 'jeans', boots and a bomber jacket during her first weeks at university If she had hoped to slip into student life at Oxford with the anonymity granted to her fellow under graduates, her wish has been lost on critics in her native Pakistan. She became the target of abuse over the picture despite keeping her 'duppata' on her head as she has done since she arrived in Britain five years ago. Inspiration: The Nobel laureate, who almost paid with her life at the hands of a Taliban gunman for speaking out in favour of women's educational rights, has is proud to be studying at Oxford One vitriolic message posted on Twitter and re-published in the Pakistani media said: 'That was the reason the bullet directly targeted her head long time ago.' Another hateful message said: 'Look at hypocrite Malala wearing pants! Is she even a Muslim?' A third said: 'Want a nobel prize and getting admission into Oxford University? Step 1: get shot so much for women rights advocacy lol.' Studying at Oxford: If she had hoped to slip into student life at Oxford with the anonymity granted to her fellow under graduates, her wish has been lost on critics in her native Pakistan Astonishingly one social media user even doctored the image of Malala to 'solve the problem' The bitterness towards the young woman who has declared that one day she would like to lead her country as Prime Minister caused outrage among supporters. The picture of Malala wearing jeans was reported across Pakistan Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai in traditional dress at the Dadaab refugee camp, Kenya in July 2016, where she voiced concern that Kenya's plans to close it could create 'a generation lost' The bitterness towards the young woman who has declared that one day she would like to lead her country as Prime Minister, caused outrage among supporters. BBC presenter Anita Anand, who presents Radio 4's Any Answers? Told MailOnline: 'Malala can wear whatever she likes as far as I'm concerned. 'The baying criticism is coming from the most regressive quarters, and I doubt she could do anything to please them. 'I sincerely hope she never tries. All of my Pakistani friends agree with that sentiment. 'She is a heroine and a role model. Her insistence on an education has taken her to one of the finest learning establishments in the world. She refused to be deterred even though extremists tried to shoot her into line.' Another fan Arsalan Ahmed Jaraal of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, near the Pakistan border with Afghanistan, said on Twitter: 'What Malala wore in UK, is pretty common in Pakistan as well. Stop creating a fuss about it. Let others live their life, at least for once.' Malala Yousafzai has seen her first weeks at Oxford greeted with an internet barrage of hate because of her choice of donning western clothing Twitter users criticised the focus on Malala's decision to wear western-style clothing even though she kept her head covered Malala faced criticism over her choice of dress today. She gained her A-levels in Birmingham after moving there following an attempt on her life October 9th 2012 by a Taliban gunman who shot her in the head Malala Yousefzai, left, with fellow students Bethany Lucas, centre, and Beatrice Kessedjian after collecting her 'A' level exam results at Edgbaston High School for Girls in Birmingham this summer Saad Kaiser Khan tweeted: 'A nation that doesn't have enough electricity, food or water resources but it debates about what a woman should and shouldn't wear.' Malala announced her arrival at Oxford University on Twitter with the message: '5 years ago, I was shot in an attempt to stop me from speaking out for girls' education. Today, I attend my first lectures at Oxford.' She is studying a BA degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford which was also attended by former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, who was murdered by terrorists during an election rally in Rawalpindi in 2007. Malala acquired her A-levels in Birmingham after moving there following an attempt on her life October 9th 2012 by a Taliban gunman who shot her in the head. The terrorists had been angered by her radio broadcasts and BBC blogs from Pakistan as a schoolgirl advocating education for all women in Pakistan, which was forbidden by the extremists. She was transferred to the UK to continue her recovery and education after an international outpouring of support and weeks after her murder attempt, a group of fifty leading Muslim clerics in Pakistan issued a fatwa against those who tried to kill her. She has consistently appeared in public and before heads of state in her national dress of shalwar kameez and with her head covered, but her new chosen style of dress has sparked an unwarranted backlash. Windsor Castle has been fortified with even more barriers designed to prevent copycat terrorists ploughing vehicles into large crowds. Attacks this year on Westminster and London bridges, and in Finsbury Park, as well as in Barcelona and Stockholm, all involved the weaponising of cars or trucks, following similar 2016 atrocities in Nice and Berlin. Police are keen to stamp out the devastating trend in as many tourist attractions and major event sites as possible with the installation of the anti-vehicle barriers. Windsor Castle has been fortified with even more barriers designed to prevent copycat terrorists ploughing vehicles into large crowds. Two guards at Windsor Castle standing behind the new anti-vehicle barriers which were installed today Attacks this year on Westminster (left) and London bridges, and in Finsbury Park (right), as well as in Barcelona and Stockholm all involved the weaponising of cars or trucks The attacks in the UK, Spain and Sweden followed similar 2016 atrocities in Nice and Berlin (pictured) More than 1.3 million people visit Windsor Castle every year The Queen's Berkshire home has additional black barriers on the edge of the pavement and the carriageway, after a first set was installed in March after the Westminster attack. The additional security measures in Windsor were introduced to protect the 'Changing the Guard' ceremonies following a review by Thames Valley Police. The Changing the Guard ceremony - which takes place on most week days - is hugely popular with tourists and more than 1.3 million people visit the castle every year. Thames Valley Police chief constable Dave Hardcastle said in March there had been no evidence of a threat to Windsor Castle but recent events had highlighted the need for added security. He said: 'While there is no intelligence to indicate a specific threat to Windsor, recent events in Westminster clearly highlight the need for extra security measures to be introduced. The Queen's Berkshire home has additional black barriers on the edge of the pavement and the carriageway The first set was installed in March in the wake of the Westminster attack by Khalid Mahsood, who killed 50 people and injured five The additional security measures in Windsor were introduced to protect the 'Changing the Guard' ceremonies following a review by Thames Valley Police 'The Force believes that it is proportionate and necessary to put in place extra security measures to further protect and support the public and the Guard Change. This is consistent with security deployments in London. 'Preventative measures such as these have been put in place across the UK over the past 10 years at various events. 'The national threat level remains severe, which it has been since 2014, and I would urge the public to be alert to the threat of terror attacks but not alarmed, and to remain vigilant.' But they attracted criticism from locals who deemed them 'ugly' and said they restricted parking. Brigitte Macron has urged women to speak out against abusive men after French Elle dedicated their latest issue to a French actress murdered by her boyfriend, in retaliation to a rock magazine featuring him on its cover. Music publication Les Inrockuptibles splashed Bertrand Cantat, the former Noir Desir frontman who beat actress Marie Trintignant to death in a Lithuanian hotel in 2003, on its cover. The move triggered nationwide outrage, and promoted Elle to do the same with an image of Ms Trintignant. Now, the country's First Lady had waded into the debate, also fuelled by the recent allegations surrounding Hollywood film producer Harvey Weinstein, urging women 'break their silence'. Brigitte Macron has urged women to speak out against abusive men after French Elle put a murder victim on its front page Music publication Les Inrockuptibles (left) splashed Bertrand Cantat, the former Noir Desir frontman who beat actress Marie Trintignant to death on a film set 2003, on its cover. The move triggered nationwide outrage, and promoted Elle to do the same (right) with an image of Ms Trintignant under the title 'In The Name Of Marie After a one-woman play in Paris, Mrs Macron said: I'm very happy that women are speaking out. It could be a cloud with a silver lining. 'That's enough. I think that all this (harassment) must stop very quickly. Freeing up speech is the best thing that could happen. (Those who speak out) are very brave to do so. I urge them to break their silence. It's wonderful. Something is happening, really.' She had been asked about a French journalist's campaign to use the hashtag 'Squeal on the pigs' to flush out abusers. Les Inrockuptibles published the story about Cantant as he plans to release a solo album in December, having already released its first single, England. Mrs Macron was speaking out after watching a one-woman play in Paris (second from left, at the theatre) Marie Trintignant, pictured left in 2000 and right in 1990, died under the blows of Bertrand Cantat Cantat had begun fighting with Ms Trintignant in July 2003 over a text message in a hotel in Vilnius, Lithuania, where she had been shooting a film. Ms Trintignant was battered 19 times in the head, which initially left her in a coma and ultimately killed her, aged 41, leaving behind two children. He was sentenced in Lithuania to eight years in prison for murder, committed with indirect intent, but was released in 2007 after releasing half of his sentence. Under the title 'In The Name Of Marie' Elle snapped back that Ms Trintignant was, 'The face of all women victims of male violence. The face of the 123 unknown women killed by their partners last year.' The magazine added: 'Marie Trintignant, we won't forget you. It will take more than the obscene media promotion of Bertrand Cantatto extinguish the flame.' French Elle's tribute to Ms Trintignant in full On 1 August 2003, Marie Trintignant died under the blows of Bertrand Cantat. Today it is a symbol. With this singular grace, her face has become that of all the women victims of male violence. The face of the 123 unknown women killed by their partners last year. That of the 33 unknowns who, every day, denounce a rape in France. That of women harassed or assaulted - 216,000 complaints filed in 2016. To all these women as actresses against Weinstein, as to Flavie Flament against Hamilton, it takes courage. Marie Trintignant, we do not forget you. It will take more than the obscene media of Bertrand Cantat ('Les Inrockuptibles' of October 11) to extinguish your flame. 'A light here requires a shadow there,' writes Virginia Woolf. You are at once this shadow and this light, this pain and this hope that one day finally ceases this violence simply unheard of. Advertisement In response to the outcry, Les Inrockuptibles issued a lengthy statement clarifying their choice to put Cantat on the cover. Part of it said: 'Some will then ask how conceivable, without being schizophrenic, to dedicate a cover to Bertrand Cantat? 'The answer is complex. For some, it is even inaudible. In the Inrockuptibles, we do journalism. It is our job, our passion. 'And journalism sometimes requires questioning the shadows, going beyond borders and evidences, whatever they may be. Cantat was sentenced in Lithuania to eight years in prison for murder, committed with indirect intent, but was released in 2007 after releasing half of his sentence 'Journalism is not simply a moral posture that involves raising or lowering your thumb. The story of Bertrand Cantat has been part of that of the Inrockuptibles since the 1980s. 'Noir Desir was one of the groups that built the identity of this newspaper, so much so that in 1997 we entrusted him with the reins of a number of which he was guest editor. 'And that is why we felt legitimate, already in 2013, to give the floor to Bertrand Cantat for the very first time.' A mother has revealed her 'all-consuming grief' at losing her husband and daughter in the space of 13 months. Mother-of-four Stephanie Nimmo, 47, from Raynes Park in south west London, lost her husband Andy, 53, to bowel cancer in December 2015, and her daughter Daisy, 12, passed away just 13 months later following a life-long battle with Costello Syndrome. She knew Daisy would never reach childhood because of her condition but never expected her to outlive her beloved husband, Andy. 'Our bubbly family of six is suddenly down to four', she said. 'So this year my Christmas preparations will be tinged with sadness.' Stephanie Nimmo and her daughter Daisy before she sadly passed away in January 2017. Daisy was diagnosed with a rare, genetic disorder known as Costello Syndrome Stephanie has written about a book detailing her grief in a bid to inspire others to reflect on their lives. This year will be her first Christmas since Daisy died and the second Christmas since Andy's funeral. In her book, that appeared in the Daily Mirror, she wrote: 'We had always known that Daisy would not reach adulthood, we just did not expect her to outlive her daddy. 'Just 13 months after her dad died of an unexpected and cruel cancer, I was forced to give comfort to my dying daughter by telling her she could go and play in the stars with her daddy now. 'Following the death of her beloved dad and my husband, Daisy had asked me every single day where he was, and now our bubbly family of six was suddenly down to four. 'So this year my Christmas preparations will be tinged with sadness.' She added: 'I am determined to keep going, honouring their memory by living for the moment and making precious memories with my sons and daughter as they grow up without their father and sister.' Stephanie's husband Andy was 53, pictured here with Daisy, when he died after a short battle with incurable bowel cancer Stephanie has been a carer for the best part of 20 years, also looking after her two sons who have high functioning autism. (L-R) Andy, Theo, Daisy, Xanthe, Stephanie and at the front Jules MailOnline previously reported how Stephanie was a successful career woman in the marketing industry who suddenly found herself caring for a sick child after having Daisy in 2005. Daisy had Costello Syndrome, a rare genetic syndrome which increases the risk of cancerous and benign tumours, heart problems, orthopaedic issues, endocrine issues and neurological issues, and is associated with developmental delay. She played the role of full-time carer, as well as mother for the best part of 20 years, to Daisy [who needed round-the-clock care] and for her two sons Theo, 20, and Jules, 14, who both have high-functioning autism. Stephanie said she and Andy knew Daisy wasn't going to live 'forever', but admitted she thought her husband would be by her side her when the time they dreaded came, and they would face their daughter's death together. But Andy was diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer in November 2014, and died just over a year later. She said: 'The year after Andy died was so hard, I had to adjust to becoming a single parent. Andy and I had always been a team and I missed him by my side.' Stephanie spoke about coping with becoming a widow and a bereaved parent in the space of just 13 months on a recent appearance on Loose Women 'IT WAS A WAY OF PROCESSING WHAT HAD HAPPENED' Stephanie's book is out in September Stephanie has written a book, Was This In The Plan?, based on her blog of the same name documenting the family's journey - something she said she has found therapeutic as a way of dealing with grief, loss and everything in between. 'I had always promised Andy,' she said. 'He said 'we must write the book', it was a way of processing what had happened.' Stephanie is also planning to establish a 'death cafe' later this year - meetings people can attend to discuss their funerals and final wishes. Advertisement She added: 'I look back to when Andy died. It was just horrific, I was on my own. I was exhausted and emotionally drained. 'It was so tough but what I've learned is I am the same as everyone else - I am not superwoman, I am just an average woman. 'You just get out, put one foot in front of the other. It is tempting to hide under the duvets, but what good will that do?' Tragically, just over a year after losing her husband she found herself planning her daughter's funeral. She said: 'She was transferred to intensive care and put on life support. The staff did everything they could but eventually I had to make the toughest decision of my life and switch off her life support machine. As Daisy slipped away I told her to go and play in the stars with Daddy.' Now the Nimmos are readjusting to a new dynamic after going from being a family of six to four in just over a year. She said: 'Christmas will be so very different this year as we remember all our previous Christmases.' A father of two was killed in a four-wheeling accident last week, just after learning that his wife was pregnant again. Jesse Albrecht, 34, went four-wheeling with friends near Houghton Lake, Michigan on October 6, and struck a tree head on when the weather started to deteriorate. He was rushed to Midland Hospital, but died five days later after suffering severe head trauma, facial fractures and skull fractures. He is survived by his wife Lara,and their two young daughters Heidi, age four, and Elise, age one. Jesse Albrecht, 34 (top left), died on October 11 - five days after he was involved in a four-wheeling accident. He leaves behind his wife Lara and daughters Heidi, age four, and Elise, age one Albrecht was four-wheeling with friends near Houghton Lake in Michigan on October 6 when he hit a tree head on. He's pictured above on another four-wheeling excursion Had he survived, Jesse and Lara planned to let family and friends know they were expecting a third child last week. The baby was due right before Jesse would have turned 35 in April. Lara was at home when her husband was involved in the accident, and was woken up in the middle of the night by police who informed her about the crash. She said she was in denial about the seriousness of his wounds until she reached the hospital. 'As soon as we walked into the room he wasn't recognizable,' Lara told MLive.com. 'It was his hair and his body but it was so different.' Albrecht and his wife had just learned that they were expecting a third child Their third child was due before Albrecht was set to turn 35 in April Before he died last Wednesday, Lara had a doctor conduct an ultrasound so she and her husband's family members could hear the baby's heartbeat Lara plans to take over her husband's flooring business, which he started when he was 18 She stayed by her husband's side the entire time he was in the hospital, and when it became clear that he wasn't going to pull through last Wednesday, she asked the doctor if she and the family members in his room could listen to the baby's heartbeat for the first time. A GoFundMe has been set up to help Albrecht's widow with expenses 'It was a heartbreaking, beautiful moment,' Lara recalled. 'It was amazing. Everyone was like, wow, that's so amazing to be able to hear the heartbeat and have Jesse right there. It was just his body because his brain wasn't functioning at all but it was amazing.' Jesse passed away later that day. He was the owner of Albrecht Hardwood Flooring, a company he started when he was 18. Lara says she plans to take over the business. She will also continue living in the home they just bought last summer, and worked so hard to make their home. A Go Fund Me page has been set up to hep Lara and her family with some of the expenses life insurance won't pay for. As of Tuesday, it had raised more than $33,000. In addition to his wife and kids, Jesse is survived by his parents, three brothers and his grandparents. Janine Adeleke, 45, pictured ran high-class agency Carlton's Of London while failing to disclose her income in a 'quite breathtaking fraud' A benefits cheat mum-of-five who made a whopping 1.5 million from her escort agency has been jailed for the second time. Janine Adeleke, 45, ran high-class agency Carlton's Of London while failing to disclose her income in a 'quite breathtaking fraud'. She spent more than 103,000 on beauty treatments, leisure and holidays, and over 88,000 in high street stores. Adeleke, from Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, was found guilty two years ago and jailed for three years. But a retrial, which has also found her guilty, heard how her family enjoyed private medical insurance, expensive holidays, and David Lloyd gym memberships. She sent one of her children to the exclusive Roedean boarding school for girls which costs 30,000 a year. Judge Heather Norton told Canterbury Crown Court she had a 'degree of understanding and compassion' for Adeleke spending the money on her children. But she added: 'This was quite simply breathtaking dishonesty on an extraordinarily wide scale and lengthy period. 'Your evidence, which was given over days, was evasive, difficult to follow and contradictory and when you were asked a question which you were not expecting, you had difficulty in providing a sensible answer and became flustered.' Adeleke denied seven counts of cheating the taxman and money-laundering, but was convicted a second time on all charges after a jury retired for more than 10 and a half hours before returning guilty verdicts by 10-2. Although she has been given another three-year jail term, she will only be inside for a few weeks as she has already served nearly half of the original sentence. Prosecutor Allistair Walker said that for eight years, between November 2006 and October 2014, Adeleke failed to disclose her significant income - much of it coming from the 'exclusive female escort' agency. Investigators found that Adeleke had stolen 212,000 in unpaid Income Tax, National Insurance Contributions and tax credits payments by declaring that she had no income. She also fraudulently claimed over 37,000 in Income Support and other state benefits, and laundered 157,000 of illicit cash. Adeleke, from Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, was found guilty two years ago and jailed for three years. But a retrial, which has also found her guilty, heard how her family enjoyed private medical insurance, expensive holidays, and David Lloyd gym memberships They discovered that more than 1.2 million had passed through her bank accounts, enabling Adeleke to splash out at least 120,000 on private schools. Mr Walker told the jury how Adeleke had been married but separated from her husband in 2006. He added: 'There followed a traumatic and bitter separation and there can be little doubt that as a consequence the defendant was left much less comfortably off. 'While claiming benefits she came to run a successful and expensive escort agency which boasted: 'VIP Models of poise, sophistication and stunning good looks for elite gentlemen'. 'The profits she made from this she never declared.' The agency took a cut of 35 per cent from its workers, who were charging between 200 and 2000 an hour. Tim Clarke, Assistant Director of HMRC's Fraud Investigation Service, said: 'Adeleke broke the law to fund a lavish lifestyle and privately educate her children. 'She defrauded vital public services and stole benefits designed to help struggling families. 'She pleaded poverty, but this was far from the truth. 'She didn't declare her income because she didn't want to pay any tax. 'But she did want to claim state benefits, which are meant to support people on low incomes, and she certainly wasn't entitled to receive them. 'As a further deception to hide her income, when Adeleke discovered she was being investigated, she laundered 157,000 through her elderly mother's bank account.' Adeleke was led away still protesting, and now faces demands to repay the money under the Proceeds of Crime Act. A California high-school teacher has been escorted off campus for kneeling through the national anthem during a school assembly. Chemistry teacher Windy Pappas kneeled with two signs - one saying 'Black Lives Matter' and another reading 'It's OK to disagree with every sign here!!!' - during a rally to kick off homecoming week at Woodland High School on Friday. 'I felt like it was something respectful and supportive to our flag,' Pappas told the Daily Democrat. 'I didn't even think of it as a protest. I was taken off-guard by the reaction.' Scroll down for video Teacher Windy Pappas was put on paid leave after this protest at Woodland High School in California. She said she didn't expect anyone to be upset by the protest The assembly continued after Pappas' protest; she said she wasn't aware that she had upset people until later that day. After the assembly, a member of staff approached her in her classroom and walked her to her car. Pappas (pictured) has First Amendment rights, the school said, but is contractually obliged to remain neutral while at work. She returned to teaching on Tuesday Initially, Pappas didn't know whether she had been suspended without pay, only that she would not be able to return to work until after an investigation. 'It's unnerving,' she said. 'I'm a single mom and that's something I'm thinking about right now.' On Monday the school confirmed to the Sacramento Bee that she had been placed on paid leave; she returned to work on Tuesday. After Pappas' removal on Friday the school district released the following statement: 'We are aware that there was an unauthorized display during a Woodland High School rally on Friday. 'As a District, we're using this as a learning opportunity to ensure we are all aware of the free speech rights of students and employees in schools.' Woodland High principal Karrie Sequeria elaborated on that message in an email sent out to parents. 'While teachers do retain certain First Amendment rights in their capacity as an instructor, such rights are limited by Education Code and case law,' she said. 'Their personal, political or religious beliefs are not appropriately expressed at school or in the classroom. 'Instead, the appropriate and legal instructional role is one of neutral facilitator - one who facilitates student discussion and intelligent analysis of current events.' A photograph of Pappas circulated online, attracting both support and opposition. 'Woodland High School people who is this teacher?' asked local Kari Rohwer Powell, adding in her comments: 'As a teacher you are supposed to keep order at the rally not be the rally.' Kari Powell said she wanted to complain after Friday's protest. She added: 'As a teacher you are supposed to keep order at the rally not be the rally.' Stephen Chaudhry, who claimed to be an Air Force veteran, said he wanted 'to inflict pain and suffering to others who disrespect this flag' Blair McAnelly gave a more sanguine response, saying that she wasn't on a 'witch hunt' for Pappas, but that a homecoming rally 'was not the place to do it' Stephen J Chaudhary, who described himself as a 20-year Air Force veteran, commented: 'I can't put into words, how much I am disgusted about the disrespect for our flag. 'I can't and don't comment on the subject on posts, because the amount of pain and hurt it causes me. More so, I want to inflict pain and suffering to others who disrespect this flag.' Blair McAnelly was more sanguine: 'All lives of course matter and we all should lead by example of that,' she wrote. 'I personally am not on a witch hunt for this teacher, I just feel the Homecoming rally was not the place to do it.' The response from Pappas' students and high-school-aged web users was more positive. 'I respect Mrs. Pappas for being so devoted to her beliefs,' wrote a Twitter user identified only as Liz. 'THAT is a strong woman. THAT is bravery.' Kevin Chavez wrote: 'Proud to say I was a student of Mrs. Pappas, she has a right to kneel. Freedom of speech!' And a user named Joaquin wrote: 'I wanna bring Mrs pappas some candy and some flowers whats her addy we gonna protest'. Support for Pappas was strong among her students and younger members of the Woodland community, who commended her 'bravery' An ex-student of Pappas', Kevin Chavez, said that her protest was freedom of speech - though school rules prohibit teachers from making political points during school time Another user, Joaquin, said that he wanted to organize a protest outside the school - although no such protest appeared to materialize But the most impassioned response came from student Alyssa Perez, who denied claims that Pappas used up the students' class time to make the posters. 'She always respects the opinions of her students, even if they went agaisnt [sic] hers,' she wrote. 'She DID NOT waste class time on those posters, I am part of the club who made them and we did them at lunch and after school. Time when she WAS NOT teaching. 'And this was all optional, she didn't force anyone to do anything. But now we will be stuck without a teacher for I don't know how long. 'She said it was okay to disagree, and it is. What is not okay is putting ideology above the education of her students. 'She is a great teacher and I will be supporting her through this along with a lot of her other students. I wouldn't want any other chemistry teacher, nor any other chemistry class.' It remains unclear the nature of Zaydel's warrants and charges Zaydel was held in jail overnight and scheduled to stand before a judge Tuesday Zaydel issued the challenge on October 6 and said he would also clean up around the district's public schools Michigan man, 21, who said he'd surrender himself to police if they got 1,000 shares on their Facebook post kept his promise Michael Martin Zaydel (pictured), 21, was placed under arrest on Monday A Michigan man who said he would turn himself in to police and buy the department donuts if their Facebook post garnered 1,000 shares has kept his promise. Redford Township Police Department said that Michael Martin Zaydel, 21, surrendered to authorities for several outstanding warrants for his arrest on Monday, according to The New York Post. 'He walked in on his own, and not only did he bring the donuts, he brought one bagel!,' the department wrote on its Facebook Page. 'We would again like to express our gratitude for the support of all who followed this, shared it, and left us positive feedback.' A spokesperson from the Redford Township Police Department told Daily Mail Online that a warrant for Zayde'ls arrest was placed for a probation violation stemming from a drunk driving incident last year. Zaydel said he'd surrender himself to police if they got 1,000 shares on their Facebook post kept his promise Zaydel, who said that he would clean litter around the district's public schools, also brought police officers a dozen donuts The post earned more than 4,400 shares on Facebook and 260 comments by Monday evening A request for comment by Daily Mail Online to the Redford Township Police Department was not immediately returned Zaydel, who first issued the challenge more than a week ago, said he would also clean up around the district's public schools if they met the goal. By Monday, the post had garnered more than 4,400 shares and racked up hundreds of comments. 'It is amazing the support we get from the community,' the department wrote to the social media site following Zaydel's arrest. 'He may or may not be a man of his word. It is our experience everyone gets caught at some point. 'He has drawn a lot of attention to himself,' the post continues, 'and that makes it hard to hide from reality. The important thing to be seen here is the support of the community, and the desire to help.' On October 6, Zaydel, who sometimes goes by the alias Champagne Torino, wrote to the police department that 'if your next post gets a thousand shares I'll turn myself in along with a dozen doughnuts.' Zaydel was held in jail overnight and scheduled to stand before a judge Tuesday The department eagerly accepted, and reached out to the community for their support. 'Mr. Champagne Torino has issued the RTPD a challenge. As you can see below, if we can have this post SHARED 1000 times, he will turn himself in to RTPD on his existing warrants, clean up blight on public school property, and bring us a dozen donuts. Donuts!!!!' 'Help us win this challenge and clean up blght (sic) in Redford at the same time! It's as easy as a SHARE of this post,' the department added. Zaydel was held in jail overnight and is scheduled to stand before a judge at the 17th District Court on Tuesday, according to The Post. A count of leaving the scene of an accident, and an attempted assault and battery charge were also part of an original indictment but were later dropped as part of a plea, the spokesperson said. A family's 15-year quest to find a long-lost relative ended in heartbreak when they discovered he died alone sleeping rough in a tent a year ago. The inquest into the death of Cardon Banfield, 74, in October last year was told he had 'no next of kin' - despite his mum, sister and niece all still being alive. He had lost contact with his family after moving to the UK from his native Saint Vincent in the Caribbean in 1961 at the age of 19. His niece, Faith Felix, 48, vowed to track him down after her grandmother Doris started reminiscing about him in 2002. But after researching her family tree in August, she was stunned to receive an email with the tragic news he died on July 5 last year. Caron Banfield's niece Faith Felix (pictured left) and his mother Doris Banfield (right). Ms Felix wanted to regain contact with her long-lost uncle, but was devastated to find he died alone in a tent after moving to the UK from Saint Vincent in the Caribbean in 1961 Mr Banfield, who had a wife, Sylvia, and son, Richard, was discovered in a tent near a river in Worcester, where he spent his final years sleeping rough. His body was so badly decomposed that he could only be identified by his DNA. He was 'partially mummified' when he was found by a passing warden of a local cricket club and it took police three months to formally identify him. The coroner's office suspect his body was there for as long as two weeks. Now his relatives feel unable to tell his 94-year-old mother Doris, who lives in Trinidad, the awful news out of fear it will be too devastating for her to take. Ms Felix said: 'Seeing my mother and grandmother crying and talking about him as I got older, I decided to look for our family members. 'I tried Red Cross and any site that will search for missing persons including ancestry.com. 'I looked up records in the UK for deaths and any news that would link me to him. I came up empty handed all the time. 'But on August 24, while I was on vacation, I received an email from Yasni.co.uk.' A family portrait of Caron Banfield with his wife Sylvia. He lost touch with his family after coming to the UK on a banana boat from the Caribbean in 1961 Ms Felix says she 'would have given anything to see or talk to him', adding: 'I was really sad that my search ended in finding him dead, I would have given anything to see him or talk to him, for him to meet his mother and siblings to hear his story. 'We wanted to come to the UK on more than one occasion but with nowhere to go or stay and the expense of the trip, we couldn't. 'The way he died was very disturbing and sad. 'I wish they had tried harder to find his family but I don't know what information he gave or if he was ever asked. 'We have not told my grandmother [Mr Banfield's mother] anything yet, for fear of grief. I hope I can muster the will to tell her before she dies. 'But we want everyone to know, he has family and was never forgotten and will live on in the hearts of the family. 'We are planning a mass for him at church and to always remember him on the day he died through a memorial.' During the inquest into his death in October 2016, an open verdict was recorded by Worcestershire coroner Geraint William, because he was unable to find out how he died. His family had occasionally spoke fondly of him to his niece over the years. She added: 'They said he liked fishing. 'It was around 1960 where he left St Vincent for the first time for the UK on the vessel 'The Geese', a ship used to transport bananas, with his cousin Frankie Mascoll. 'The captain of the ship signed him off so he stayed in the UK. He said he was staying to make himself a better life, that was 1961. 'He got married to a Jewish lady by the name of Sylvia and they had a son named Richard.' Homeless campaigner Hugo Sugg (pictured) was contacted by the Banfield family about Caron's death. He was so moved he has vowed to fight for better services for the homeless. He is pictured laying flowers for him with his mother Lindy Denton Homelessness campaigner Hugo Sugg, 27, was devastated to learn the man found dead in the tent was Mr Banfield - having known him back in 2014 when he volunteered at the YMCA he was living in. After being made homeless at 18 himself and 'feeling ready to commit suicide every single day', he is campaigning for 'Justice for Cardon', believing he was failed by the authorities. He organised a vigil to commemorate the anniversary of when his body was found and said it was a 'pleasant shock' when the family contacted him after finding he spoke out about his death in the news. He told MailOnline: 'I was so upset when I found out how he died and the condition he was found in. 'He was so full of life and such a lovely, geniune, down to earth guy. 'When I realised what had happened the activist in me was like "This is wrong. I'm going to get justice for him" and the rest just felt so sad.' Mr Sugg, who now lives in London but is from Worcester, claims both West Merica Police and Worcester City Council say they 'had no record of Cardon Banfield'. But he says they 'must have' because he was registered on housing benefit and arrested for being drunk and disorderly in 2002. He is currently working on his second 'safeguarding duty review' into Mr Banfield's death after his first was rejected last year. He added: 'We have to remember that this family is now grieving for loss of a brother, son, uncle and husband and they deserve peace at this time. 'For the ones in authority who let Cardon down in the months running up to his discovery, including Worcester City Council. 'I hope his family's grief pricks your conscience so much that you will now come out from the shadows you've been hiding in and finally make yourself, and your organisation, accountable. 'I promise we will get justice and today I'm proud to say, this is one step closer.' MailOnline has approached Worcester City Council for comment. Howard University evacuated one of its buildings on Tuesday amid reports of an active shooter that turned out to be a false alarm. At midday, police announced they had been called to the campus in Washington DC by university officials who earlier received an anonymous report about the shooter. They evacuated the administrative building and told others on campus to stay in place as they swept the grounds. Two hours later, police finished their searches without finding a single injured person or shooter. Staff at Howard University in Washington DC received an anonymous report of a shooter at midday on Tuesday (file image) which later emerged to be a false alarm University officials issued this message at 12.44pm by which time there were still no reported injuries and no shooter had been found The alarm was raised shortly after midday when university officials received an anonymous call about a shooter in the medical college. Police who were at the scene however heard nothing at the time. They began a search inside the building nonetheless. As they searched the first building, another call was made to police to report a second shooting in the administrative building. Police evacuated it after receiving that report. Later, they received a third call reporting another shooting on a third location. All turned out to be false alarms. Police have not yet determined whether the caller intentionally made false reports or if it was a false alarm. The university is currently welcoming homecoming week, an annual tradition which sees a number of alumni returning to campus. One Washington Post employee cited a friend who works on campus who appeared to confirm the shooter's presence. One Washington Post employee said he had spoken to a friend at the university who was told of the same threat Panic spread on Tuesday afternoon as police tried to establish whether the threat was genuine On Tuesday night, the university is due to host the first 'YouTube Black fanfest' as part of its homecoming week celebrations. The event is planned to take place on campus and will feature performances from a handful of successful black internet influencers. As reports of a shooter spread on Tuesday, panicked students took to social media in confusion after not hearing from university officials as the reports unfolded. Shortly before 1pm, the university said in a tweet: 'This afternoon, we were anonymously notified of a potential shooter on campus. 'We took the call seriously and police are investigating. 'Because the safety of our students and staff are our number one priority, the Admin Bldg has been evacuated.' The head of MI5 today warned Britain is facing the biggest terror threat of his 34 year career - as he said tech giants have an 'ethical responsibility' to crack down on extremists. Andrew Parker said extremists are mounting deadly terror attacks with just a few days of planning as the UK sees a 'dramatic' jump in the scale and pace of the threat. In his annual 'state of the union' assessment of the threat facing the UK, he said extremists are exploiting 'safe spaces' online, hindering intelligence efforts to root them out. And he issued a fresh challenge to technology firms, saying they have an 'ethical responsibility' to help governments confront the threat. His stark warning comes after Britain was hit by five terror attacks this year - killing dozens and injuring hundreds more. Head of MI5 Andrew Parker pictured in London today, said Britain is facing the biggest terror threat of his 34 year career in the intelligence services In his first substantial remarks since the wave of carnage, this year, Mr Parker detailed the 'acute and enduring' challenge posed by Islamist terrorism. Twenty plots have been foiled over the past four years, including seven in the last seven months. Speaking in central London today, he said: 'We've seen a dramatic up-shift in threat this year. 'Today there is more terrorist activity, it's coming at us more quickly and it can be harder to detect.' Security services and police are operating at a scale which is 'greater than ever before', he said. Mourners leave candles in tribute to those killed after the Manchester terror attack. Britain has been hit by a wave of terror attacks this year, killing dozens and injuring hundreds more They are probing well over 500 live operations involving around 3,000 individuals, he revealed. And the top spy also warned that as Islamic State - also known as ISIS or Daesh - are on the run in Syria, British intelligence services have to assess the risk posed by those fleeing the war in the Middle East. TECH FIRMS HAVE RESPONSIBILITY TO CONFRONT TERROR, MI5 CHIEF WARNS Technology companies have an 'ethical responsibility' to help confront the unprecedented terrorist threat, the head of MI5 has said. Andrew Parker called for companies to work in partnership with governments to stop violent extremists exploiting their services. And he warned that some extremists were finding 'safe spaces' online to plot carnage. He said: 'Addressing these challenges is about partnerships and ethical responsibility. 'No company wants to provide terrorists with explosive precursors. 'Social media platforms don't want to host bomb-making videos and communications providers don't want to provide the means of terrorists' planning beyond the sight of MI5.' Mr Parker, the Director General of MI5, said 'technology is not the enemy'. But he warned an 'unintended side effect is that these advances also aid the terrorists'. He said: 'I believe there is a responsibility on the companies that offer those services to help governments be able to stop the worst excesses of human criminal behaviour.' He added: 'For all the companies, and it's a wide field, there are many large companies and many more smaller ones, I think the same principle applies. 'There must be an ethical responsibility to help with these problems.' Advertisement He said there is a 'growing pool' of more than 20,000 people looked at as part of previous terror investigations. Mr Parker also noted that there will be some violent extremists 'not yet known to us at all'. He said the shift is being driven by the 'murderous strategy' of IS and online propaganda, and warned that the threat is 'more diverse than I've ever known'. 'Plots developed here in the UK but plots directed from overseas as well,' he said. 'Complex scheming and also crude stabbings. Lengthy planning but also spontaneous attacks. 'Extremists of all ages, gender and backgrounds united only by the toxic ideology of violent hatred that drives them. 'These threats are sometimes now coming at us more quickly - whether crude but lethal attack methods, for example using a knife or a vehicle, or more sophisticated plots, when in today's world terrorists can learn all that they need online to make explosives and build a bomb.' He said attacks can sometimes accelerate 'from inception through planning to action in just a handful of days'. He added: 'This pace, together with the way extremists can exploit safe spaces online, can make threats harder to detect and give us a smaller window to intervene.' Among the plots seen in recent years some have had a 'very short life from first inception to intent to act', Mr Parker said. 'Some of them would be measured in days, at the extreme,' he added. While IS is 'rapidly losing ground' in its heartlands in Syria and Iraq, tackling it as a movement will require 'sustained international focus for years to come', the Director General of MI5 said. He made clear that counter-terror agencies 'can't hope to stop everything', acknowledging that 'attacks will occur sometimes'. But he said the vast majority are being found and stopped and a 'perfect standard of 100 per cent' is not achievable. Striking a defiant tone, he described the response to the threat as 'unrelenting'. Armed police surround terrorist Khalid Masood in parliament's New palace Yard after he ploughed his car into pedestrians in nearby Westminster Bridge before leaping out and stabbing to death PC Keith Palmer Armed police clad in black masks and carrying machine guns were deployed onto the streets of London after the London bridge terror attack - in which three terrorists drove their car into innocent bystanders enjoying an evening out before leaping out and stabbing them Mr Parker said: 'Those that wish our country harm can expect to meet MI5 and the police. They will face the full force of the law and be brought to justice.' His comments come after five terror attacks have brought murder to the streets of Britain this year in a dramatic escalation of the threat facing the country. Some 22 people - including many children - were killed when a suicide bomber blew himself up at an Ariana grande concert in Manchester in May. Less than two weeks later three jihadis struck in London Bridge, killing eight people and injuring dozens more when their white van drove into pedestrians n a busy evening. They then leapt out and stabbed passers by before being shot dead by police in just eight minutes. The heart of government was attacked in March when Khalid Masood, 52, drove his car into pedestrians in Westminster Bridge before jumping out and stabbing PC Keith Palmer by Parliament's gates. While ten people were injures and one died after a man drove his van into Finsbury Park mosque in June. Two drivers literally drove each other crazy in Indiana on Saturday when a speedway race escalated into a combined demolition derby and fistfight that only ended when one driver was tased. The footage, shot at the Anderson Speedway 35 miles from Indianapolis, shows a pair flying off the track after one clips the other on a tight turn. Furious, one of the drivers then takes his vehicle up to his opponent - then over him. Things go downhill from there. Scroll down for video Driven crazy: This is the shocking moment Jeffrey Swinford, 40, drove over competitor Shawn Cullen, 42, at Anderson Speedway on Saturday; the pair had collided three times earlier Electric action: Cullen then attacked Swinford, but was tased by this police officer as the pit crew (in green shirts) stood by helplessly - and the crowd cheered According to the Herald Bulletin, drivers Shawn Cullen, 42, of Anderson, and Jeffrey Swinford, 40, of Elwood, struck each other three times during the race. It was the last collision that spectator Rhonda Chalfant recorded, showing Swinford's black car rolling into the grass by the road after being clipped by Cullen, in his orange-and-black racer. After a few startled seconds, Swinford then races up to Cullen - directly across the path of oncoming cars and narrowly avoiding a crash. The pair appear to exchange words, at which point Swinford's car roars towards Cullen's, smashing into and mounting it, crumpling the front axle. Cullen then marches out of his car, pulls off his helmet and appears to start pummeling Swinford, as one viewer observes 'Hm, punches' and members of the crowd shout in delight. Wheely dangerous: Cullen is seen here getting out of his car, tossing off his helmet and then (right, through transparent plastic) beating up Swinford, who was in the driver's seat The pit crew just look on in confusion as a cop runs up and tases Cullen, who topples to the floor. Both men are then led off in cuffs as a tow truck drags off the vehicles. Swinford was charged with criminal recklessness, a Class A misdemeanor. He is out on $3,000 bond. Cullen was ticketed for disorderly conduct. 'We actually had a great day of racing up until then,' said Rick Dawson, owner of Anderson Speedway. 'Swinford just got mad and used his car as a weapon. We've never had anything like that happen. It's just beyond my comprehension.' He concluded by saying that 'Swinford will not race at this racetrack as long as I own it. And I plan to own it for a long time.' Ivanka Trump has settled a lawsuit after a California company claimed she ripped off trademarked designs for her coat collection. The details of the settlement were not disclosed. But high end shoe designer Aquazzura, which sued Ivanka over its trademarked $785 fringe sandals in 2016, will see the First Daughter in court in March, 2018. Unicolors Inc., a California-based 'textile converter' of imported and domestic fabrics, is sued Trump's brand - Ivanka Trump Marks LLC, Gill Leather Fashions - a manufacturer of Trump's clothing line, and TJX - the umbrella retailer that owns TJ Maxx, which sold the coat in question. In documents obtained by DailyMail.com, Unicolors claimed it owns the rights to the 'unique two-dimensional graphic design' and that the company provided samples to clients with the understanding that if purchased, the design would be reproduced as is. Ivanka Trump was sued for allegedly ripping off a California-based fabric company's designs to use for a coat in her collection sold by TJ Maxx Unicolors claimed that it owns the rights to the 'unique two-dimensional graphic design' and that provided samples to clients with the understanding that if purchased, the design would be reproduced as is But the suit alleges that Ivanka did not purchase the sample and used the design for this coat, making minor changes to Unicolors' original design The fabric manufacturer idemanded an injunction, ordering Ivanka to stop selling coat, and is suing for all profits made by stealing its design They believe, however, that the both Ivanka and Gill Leather Fashions accessed their sample and reproduced it with only minor changes for one of Ivanka's coats. According to the lawsuit: 'Defendant IVANKA TRUMP purchased, sold, marketed, advertised, manufactured, caused to be manufactured, imported and/or distributed fabric and/or garments comprised of fabric featuring a design which is identical, or substantially similar to, the Subject Design. ' It went on to explain that Ivanka's clothing is distributed by ten different retailers and is usually displayed and advertised differently than other clothing lines. 'Trump's clothing is often prominently displayed in a manner that is very easily accessible to customers and attracts their attention by displaying the 'Ivanka Trump' name on signs and other advertisements near its clothing.' It also alleged that as retailers prefer to have the 'Trump name' attached to their clothing, the 'copyright infringement' is costing Unicolors significant business. The fabric manufacturer demanded an injunction, ordering Ivanka to stop selling the coat, and is suing for all profits made by stealing its design. Ivanaka is still in the throes of a separate legal battle with shoe designer Aquazzura. Unicolors is also suing the coat's manufacturer, Gill Leather Fashions and TJX - the umbrella retailer that owns TJ Maxx Last year in June, the fashion designer's business filed a federal lawsuit against Ivanka and her licensing company. It claimed Ivanka's Hettie stiletto was identical to their Wild Thing pump, which has found a following among celebrities including Kendall Jenner and Solange Knowles. The Italian shoe company pointed out in their complaint that the color, silhouette and fringing design of Ivanka's closely matched their own. Ivanka is in the middle of a separate legal battle with high-end shoe designer Aquazzura, which claims Ivanka's Hettie stiletto (left) is identical to their Wild Thing pump (right) The company is demanded an injunction be issued against Ivanka, as well as accounting for all profits made from the shoes they believe were ripped off. Matthew Burris, the CFO of Ivanka's licensing company, released a statement after the lawsuit was filed stating: 'This is a baseless lawsuit aimed at generating publicity. 'The shoe in question is representative of a trending fashion style, is not subject to intellectual property law protection and there are similar styles made by several major brands.' Ivanka demanded that the court dismiss Aquazzura's case and pay for her legal costs. But the case will go to trial in March. In January, the First Daughter officially stepped down from her role at her eponymous fashion line. In a statement, she wrote: 'When my father takes office as the 45th President of the United States of America, I will take a formal leave of absence from The Trump Organization and my eponymous apparel and accessories brand. I will no longer be involved with the management or operations of either company.' An Ohio mother who was arrested earlier this year after she taped her toddler son to a wall and shared a Facebook Live video of the incident has agreed to a plea deal. Shayla Rudolph, 19, appeared in Franklin County Court on Monday and pleaded guilty to a single count of attempted child endangerment. She could face up to 18 months in prison when she is sentenced on December 1. Scroll down for video Mom pleads out: Shayla Rudolph, 19, appeared in court Monday (pictured) and pleaded guilty to attempted child endangerment for taping her young son to a wall in January Bad parenting: The 19-year-old (pictured above) was arrested after she bragged about taping her two-year-old son to the wall in a Facebook Live video At the time of her arrest in mid-January, Rudolph was charged with third-degree felony abduction and child endangerment. The 19-year-old Reynoldsburg resident took the plea deal on the day her trial was scheduled to get under way, reported The Columbus Dispatch. Police said Rudolph placed clear packing tape over her two-year-old son's mouth and restrained his arms against the wall with tape for about 15 minutes so she could do housework. The mother bragged that it was a good way to keep her child from running around, and later filmed another Facebook video taunting people who alerted child welfare officials about the original clip. Rudolph filmed the first video on New Year's Day and claimed it was a joke when child welfare officials visited her home on January 5, according to WSYX. The toddler could be heard crying in the first Facebook Live video, as his arms are held against a wall with clear packing tape. Police also said his mouth was taped shut. Awaiting her fate: Rudolph faces 18 months in prison, but the judge may decide to give her probation instead when she is sentenced in December Rudolph claimed the video was a joke when child welfare officials visited her home on January 5. Pictured above, Rudolph is being taken into custody Rudolph could be seen in the video telling her son: 'You have the best mommy in the whole wide world.' She faces the camera and explains her methods, saying: 'You cant clean without them running around tearing up? Tape em to the wall. 'You cant cook or none of that because they running around? Tape em to the wall.' She later tells her son: 'Don't make me put more tape up there. Now stay still. You can see the TV from right there.' The toddler, dressed in a diaper, continues crying in the background. Days after the Franklin County Children's Services appeared on Rudolph's doorstep, she posted another video, expressing indignation about the visit. In another Facebook Live video, Rudolph can be seen disciplining her son by making him stand in a corner. She says: 'They called Children Services on me, so f*** it, now he in the corner. 'Whatcha gonna do now? Call children services now, you can have his a**. I dont give a f***. This time yall can take him.' Rudolph also claimed she could punish her son however she liked, and hang him upside down, FOX reported. The 19-year-old, who has been out on bail, could potentially avoid prison if the judge decides to give her probation instead. Rajini Vaidyanathan has shared her personal story of explicit sexual advances from colleagues as the hashtag #MeToo aims to raise awareness about how widespread harassment is. The Washington correspondent says it began in a New York Italian restaurant when she was about 25 and had gone to Manhattan for the Republican Party convention. With most of her colleagues having gone home, she was left to eat dinner with a male colleague who made an advance despite being twice her age and having a girlfriend. The BBC journalist says she was subjected to overt workplace sexism at a New York dinner by a colleague twice her age who had a girlfriend 'I dropped my fork and it bounced on the plate, the spaghetti still woven around it,' she writes for the BBC, recalling his remarks. 'I'm unbelievably sexually attracted to you,' he said. 'I can't stop thinking about you.' Despite characterising his remarks as 'overt' workplace sexism, the journalist remembers trying to politely change the topic of conversation. 'I can't even remember what I said - but it was something all too polite, as I tried to change the conversation,' she writes. 'He continued talking about how beautiful I was, as I ate the pasta as fast I could. Harvey Weinstein has been accused of sexual harassment by more than 40 women in a scandal engulfing Hollywood 'I wasn't sure at the time if he'd said anything that I could reasonably complain about, but I remember feeling disgusted and uncomfortable about it. 'I now know it was utterly unacceptable, and is just another reminder of how some men in the workplace use their power to manipulate, harass and even abuse women.' The awareness push was prompted by allegations surrounding Harvey Weinstein, who faces accusations of rape and harassment of Hollywood actresses. 'The recent conversation about Harvey Weinstein has prompted countless conversations among my female friends about where the line stops in these situations, and when you should say something,' she writes. 'Do you have to be touched for it to count? What if you are friends with them? When does harassment start, and when does it end? 'The Weinstein case has shone the light on the appalling practices in Hollywood, but it is of course a very depressing reflection of what women from all walks of life, from all corners of the globe, have to experience on a daily basis.' The correspondent is calling on women to speak out about sexual harassment after she says a married colleague sent her messages about his obsession with 'pleasuring' himself Unfortunately, Vaidyanathan says her experience in New York wasn't the last time she was harassed as she was 'horrified' by explicit messages from a married man. 'A few years ago a married former colleague of mine began sending me messages containing explicit details of his sexual desires,' she says. '"I have become obsessed with pleasuring myself," he wrote. "I just can't control myself." 'I thought I needed to be polite, as there was a chance we'd work together again.' When she sent a reassuring message describing his thoughts as 'pretty normal', she says his behaviour worsened. 'His messages continued and became more creepy,' she said. 'He said he'd fantasised about sex with powerful women, and how he wanted to cheat on his wife. 'I told him to talk to someone else - not me - and to get help.' Despite her disgust, she told nobody about the exchange and may have remained silent were it not for a conversation with a female colleague. Comedian Bill Cosby has faced numerous sex abuse accusations, which Rajini Vaidyanathan believes is partly the result of alleged victims speaking out 'Months later I was chatting to another female colleague who told me that for years she had received dirty messages from the same man,' she writes. 'I let out a sigh of relief, as I realised I could finally share my story. 'Soon after I heard he'd been fired. Another colleague had filed a complaint against him.' Now she encourages people to speak out about harassment and abuse, citing the string of rape and sexual assault allegations made against comedian Bill Cosby as proof that coming forward helps others do the same. 'No matter what the degree of abuse is, knowing someone else has gone through it too makes it easier to speak out. Just look at the Bill Cosby case,' she said. 'I have interviewed a number of survivors of sexual assault on college campuses in the US, who didn't come forward because they didn't think they'd be believed. 'A lot of the time, men don't understand how to deal with it, because - to put it simply - they don't have to deal with it. 'They don't get the same comments or asides, the same blame or judgement as women face on a regular basis.' A Missouri appeals court threw out a $72million award to an Alabama woman who claimed her use of Johnson & Johnson products that contained talcum powder contributed to her ovarian cancer. The Missouri Eastern District Court ruled on Tuesday that the lawsuit filed by Jacqueline Fox, 62, of Birmingham, Alabama, lacked jurisdiction. The appeals court cited a Supreme Court ruling in June that placed limits on where injury lawsuits could be filed, saying state courts cannot hear claims against companies not based in the state where alleged injuries occurred. A Missouri appeals court threw out a $72million award given to the late Jacqueline Fox, 62, of Birmingham, Alabama (pictured, left, with her son), claiming that her lawsuit lacked jurisdiction Fox filed a lawsuit claiming Johnson & Johnson baby powder, which she used for feminine hygiene for about 25 years, contributed to her cancer. She died in 2015, about four months before her case went to trial in St Louis Circuit Court. In February 2016, a jury awarded Fox $10million in actual damages and $62million in punitive damages - the first award in the lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson. More than 1,000 others have filed similar lawsuits in St Louis against Johnson & Johnson, which is based in Brunswick, New Jersey. In four of five trials held so far, jurors awarded more than $300million combined. Only two of the 64 cases attached to Fox's case lived in Missouri. However, a Supreme Court ruling in June involving pharmaceutical company Bristol-Myers Squibb may change these awards. The ruling states a lawsuit's jurisdiction requires a stronger connection between the forum state and a plaintiff's claims. Johnson & Johnson has appealed all the awards against it and says its products are safe. A spokeswoman said after Tuesday's ruling that the company is confident its appeals will be successful. 'In the cases involving non-resident plaintiffs who sued in the state of Missouri, we consistently argued that there was no jurisdiction and we expect the existing verdicts that we are appealing to be reversed,' spokeswoman Carole Goodrich said in a statement. Jim Onder, who is representing many plaintiffs in the lawsuits, has argued that Missouri is a proper jurisdiction because Johnson & Johnson packages and labels some products in Missouri. Fox was one of 65 people who filed a lawsuit claiming that Johnson & Johnson baby powder (pictured) containing talcum powder is carcinogenic - or cancer-causing Onder told The St Louis Post-Dispatch that the Supreme Court sent the Bristol case back to California state court and he is confident the Missouri Supreme Court will do the same. Within days of the Supreme Court ruling, a mistrial was declared in a Missouri state court in another lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson that involved three plaintiffs, two from out of state. That trial has not yet been rescheduled. Talcum powder is made from talc, a soft mineral that is widely used in personal care products to absorb moisture and for other products including paint and plastics. Most research has established no link or a weak one between ovarian cancer and using baby powder for feminine hygiene, and most major health groups have said talc is harmless. However, some smaller studies have found a small link and the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies genital use of talc as 'possibly carcinogenic'. Montana is an amazing state to hunt. It has some of the longest hunting seasons in the West, healthy herds of game and access to millions of acres of public land. Hopefully, the following big game forecast will give you some valuable information for planning that next outing. SW Montana Its referred to at times as the elk factory of Montana, and its true elk numbers, in general, across southwest Montana are solid, bordering on great. From the Pintler Mountains on the west side of the region to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness to the east, southwest Montana is defined by high, rugged country and an abundance of public land. Big game thrives here, particularly elk. Though in general hunter success last year was about average, it wasnt helped by mild weather. Typically, elk hunter success during the general season improves dramatically with snow, which gets elk moving and makes them easier to track. South of Butte from Mount Haggin to the Big Hole Valley elk numbers are robust and consistent with last years numbers, said FWP Region 3 wildlife biologist Vanna Boccadori. South of Bozeman, elk numbers are also in good shape, with hunters seeing good success in many hunting districts along with an abundance of access due to large amounts of public land. In several areas, like the Madison Valley, elk numbers remain above population objectives. South of Helena elk numbers are also strong. In the area around Townsend, hunters have run into access issues as elk have tended to congregate on private land in recent years, said FWP biologist Adam Grove. He suggests that hunters work on securing access to private lands early. Overall, elk numbers in the area are well over objective. Around Helena, elk hunting is largely weather dependent, said FWP biologist Jenny Sika. If it snows during hunting season, elk hunter success increases. If not, hunters have to work harder and success drops. But in general elk numbers are good throughout the area. Several hunting districts in southwest Montana have elk shoulder seasons. These antlerless seasons are focused on private land and are typically outside of the general big game season. Hunters interested in shoulder seasons should make sure they read and understand the regulations. Each hunting district is different. And, as always, hunters must get permission to hunt private land. In general, mule deer numbers are steady across southwest Montana. In some areas, like around Townsend, mule deer numbers are still on the rebound from recent lows. But in general numbers are stable or on the upswing. White-tailed deer numbers continue to look solid across the region. However, much of the best white-tailed deer habitat is on private land river bottoms or irrigated crop land. For antelope in southwest Montana, the story is similar to deer. Numbers are stable or on the upswing. Antelope hunters this year can expect similar numbers to what theyve seen the last couple of years. North-central When it comes to deer, elk and antelope, the outlook for north-central Montana is good for the fall 2017 hunting season. Milder winters the last couple of years and, depending on the species, fewer B licenses (those are licenses for either antlerless animals or doe/fawns) have allowed several species to increase their numbers and come close to management objectives. The last few years with milder winters weve had better fawn production and recruitment, said Cory Loecker, FWP wildlife biologist in Great Falls. And weve restricted our B licenses. Recruitment refers to when a young animal survives its first year and is added to the population. Mule deer from the Rocky Mountain Front to east and south of Great Falls are at management objective or even above in a few spots. Were better than we were 20 years ago, said Brent Lonner, FWP wildlife biologist in Fairfield. But that doesnt mean we are at the high population levels we saw in the 1970s and 1980s. I dont know if well ever get back there. Lonner said those mule deer numbers from a generation ago were probably artificially high and unsustainable in the long run. The current lone exception to the mule deer upswing is around Lewistown, where numbers lag by about a year. For white-tailed deer there are good numbers most everywhere in the north-central part of the state. However, prairie whitetails are closely associated with lands enrolled in the federal Conservation Reserve Program, or CRP, which pays landowners to remove environmentally sensitive land from agricultural production and plant species that will improve environmental health and quality. Removing lands from CRP can hurt whitetails and other wildlife species. Meanwhile, antelope are staging a comeback in the region. Prairie pronghorn numbers had declined for a couple of years, but population levels have returned to average with above-average fawn production this year. That bodes well for the future. Again, the exception is the eastern part of the region, where antelope numbers are below objective. But the good news is better fawn production. As for elk, the news is good, better, best. Throughout north-central Montana, elk numbers are at or above objective. There is no lack of elk, Lonner said. The challenge is in the fall when hunters cant find them. The problem then is often a lack of access, he said. All this good news doesnt guarantee meat in the freezer for hunters this fall, but the ingredients to success are present. South-central Mule deer numbers are stronger in the prairies and foothills of south-central Montana than in the mountains. Overall numbers are nearly the same or slightly better than last year. Along the face of the Beartooth Mountains and the western slopes of the Pryors, mule deer numbers remain quite low except for northwest of Red Lodge, where numbers are approaching the long-term average. Mule deer northwest of Billings are at record numbers, while north of the Musselshell River to the Snowy Mountain foothills they are similar to last year and increasing slowly. Northeast of Harlowton biologists counted fewer mule deer this past spring. Northwest of Harlowton last years mule deer buck harvest was the highest in five years. In the Boulder River drainage and in hunting districts north of Big Timber, mule deer numbers are mostly the same as last year and slightly above the long-term average. The number of bucks and the antlered-deer harvest in those districts remains low, however. North and east of Billings, mule deer numbers and last years harvest were slightly above average and similar to last year. The number of fawns is slightly below the long-term average. White-tailed deer numbers appear to continue their rebound from the 2011 disease outbreak that drastically thinned the herds. In the Boulder River drainage and hunting districts north of Big Timber, white-tailed deer hunters should expect an experience similar to last year as numbers are stable to slightly better than in 2016. In the Stillwater, Red Lodge Creek and East Rosebud areas, white-tailed deer numbers have recovered nicely with relatively high numbers of bucks. Along the Musselshell River downstream from Shawmut and along Flatwillow Creek, white-tailed deer numbers have rebounded to levels seen before the 2011 outbreak. North and east of Billings, white-tailed deer numbers continue to increase from the most recent disease outbreak with estimated populations the second largest in 35 years. Elk numbers throughout south-central Montana remain at record highs. Access to private land where many of the elk spend the hunting season is difficult. The number of elk are below objectives only in the upper Boulder River drainage, where much of the land is accessible. Antelope densities south of the Yellowstone River southwest of Billings are below average. But between the Yellowstone and Musselshell rivers numbers are close to all-time highs. In all areas between Columbus and Harlowton, the number of antelope is stable and near the long-term average. Biologists reported seeing quite a few large antelope bucks during this summers surveys. North of the Musselshell River, antelope numbers have increased slightly from last year and are approaching the long-term average. Northwest of Roundup, antelope numbers increase some the further north one hunts. East of Billings, antelope numbers are looking better north of the Yellowstone River while herds south of the Yellowstone continue to struggle. South of the river, buck/doe rations are lower than average and hunter success has been below average for the past two years. North of the river, antelope numbers and fawns in particular are the highest since 1989 and they continued to increase this summer. Northwest In the northwest corner of Montana, the story for 2017s hunting season was really started last winter with deep snowfall across much of the region. The snowpack in some areas was exceptional, making for low survival rates in some areas for elk calves and deer fawns. For elk, calf recruitment was lower than in previous years, consequently the number of antlerless licenses was reduced for the 2017 season. However, the impact of the hard winter didnt seem to be as dramatic as initially thought. Bull and cow ratios across the region remain stable. Northwest Montana is unique white-tailed deer country. While most of the state is dominated by mule deer, thats not the case up here. White-tailed deer can be found from river bottoms and agricultural land to evergreen forests and high country. However, fawn recruitment was impacted by the winter. Thats the bad news. The good news is adult survival was strong and if we see a normal winter this year, hunters wont notice a dip in deer numbers. White-tailed deer numbers were most impacted in the North Fork of the Flathead River. Mule deer counts in the region remain at about their long-term average. Western Elk numbers in Western Montana are robust. FWP wildlife biologists counted 26,226 elk this spring, the second-highest total in 53 years of annual aerial surveys. Numbers of bull elk in the surveys were notably strong, probably reflecting the light harvest last fall. Elk survey results, past and present, for every hunting district in FWP Region 2 are available online and at Region 2 headquarters in Missoula. Dry weather and fires in the region will contribute to more elk in irrigated crops on private land. Hunters hoping to participate in shoulder seasons this fall or winter should secure permission on private land now, and purchase an elk B-license now for private lands where B-licenses are valid. White-tailed deer numbers appear to be on an upward trend, owing to the past couple years of excellent fawn production and average-or-better winter survival. It seems that most does had twins, this year and last. Biologists noticed more good bucks in the velvet over the summer. Dry weather and fires in the region will tend to concentrate deer, like elk, in irrigated crops on private land even more than usual. Fresh burns could be good places to hunt if fall rains come and if a fall green-up occurs. Opportunities to hunt mule deer are somewhat limited in Western Montana. Many districts require the hunter to have obtained a permit or B-license through the statewide application process. Hunters with buck permits or hunters hunting in districts where a special permit is not required for a buck should plan to go high in the mountains to match their stamina with the biggest bucks. An emerging opportunity for hunters in Region 2 is to hunt mule deer on private lands, where numbers generally are growing. Antelope hunting is a minority sport in Western Montana, where numbers have increased to about 400 following transplants by FWP to the Deer Lodge vicinity in the 1940s. Hunting is limited to a few hunters with permits obtained in the statewide drawing process. More information on Region 2 antelope is available online and at Region 2 headquarters in Missoula. Southeast The badlands, farmland and rolling prairie of southeast Montana is home to a vast number of animals, including rapidly rebounding populations of mule deer, near-average antelope numbers and a growing number of elk. Mule deer in the region continue to be on a strong upward trajectory from their low point in 2012. Following back-to-back severe winters in 2009-10 and 2010-11, mule deer numbers bottomed out at 61 percent of long-term average. Spring 2017 surveys indicate populations are 45 percent above long-term average. In just five years, weve gone from extremely low to extremely high deer numbers, said FWP biologist Melissa Foster. The age structure of the population continues to improve. Early in that recovery, the population was heavily skewed toward younger age classes; we had lots of yearlings, lots of 2-year-olds, but fewer mature deer. Thats perfectly natural. Its a result of the boom in production following the population decline. With fewer mouths on the landscape, almost everyone enters winter in good body condition, Foster explained. Theyre able to find winter browse and thermal cover, resources are essentially unlimited and fawn production and survival rates are extremely high. Going into the 2017 hunting season, biologists expect that there still wont be many old deer on the landscape. Deer in the 6- to 8-year-old range would have survived as fawns or been born following the severe winters when fawn production and survival rates were low. Five-year-olds this year would have been born in 2012, a year with good fawn production but low numbers of deer. Numbers of 3- and 4-year-olds will be better, and there will once again be high numbers of yearlings and 2-year-olds. We have probably hit a high point for deer numbers, Foster said. At 45 percent above the long-term average, habitat degradation is already beginning to occur. The drought this year means that deer will enter winter with fewer fat reserves than prior years. Huge numbers of mouths on the landscape means that it will be more difficult for deer to find good winter browse and thermal cover. Habitat is important and high numbers of deer can have an effect. Deer can and do have the ability to eat themselves out of house and home, said John Ensign, FWP Region 7 wildlife manager. When deer numbers are high like they are right now, they impact winter browse. As that browse component declines, so does the number of deer that the landscape can support. Its counterintuitive, said Foster. But the best thing that we can do oftentimes to improve deer numbers is to harvest more deer. Good harvests can mean better deer health through the winter and into spring because the habitat can better handle the pressure. The antlerless mule deer quota this year was increased to 11,000, which means theres plenty of opportunity for hunters to fill their freezers while helping to maintain herd health, Ensign said. Whitetail numbers have held steady in southeast Montana. Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease outbreaks have been localized in scale and small in magnitude since 2012. Local hunters will recall the last major EHD outbreak in 2011, which caused heavy mortality in whitetails throughout many parts of Region 7. We are at a good place right now with whitetail numbers, Ensign said. As deer densities increase, the risk of major EHD outbreaks increases. The disease is transmitted by a biting midge. When you get deer in close proximity, its an ideal situation for disease transmission. Its impossible to stockpile wildlife, including whitetails, he said. Whether in the form of disease, drought or harsh winters, Mother Nature always intervenes. Hunters who do their homework by scouting and visiting with private landowners should have success locating good areas to hunt whitetails. Montana antelope populations are for the most part continuing to recover and grow from previous years' winter kills and low fawn numbers in Central and Eastern Montana. Summer production surveys indicate that southeast Montana antelope numbers have increased 74 percent from the low in 2012, and are now hovering near the regionwide long-term average. The total count across the region is slightly below last year. Antelope numbers in the northeastern portion of the region are near long-term average. Populations north of Hysham and Forsyth are still somewhat depressed. Individuals who know that area and typically hunt it may still find success there, but groups looking to harvest does may do better to focus their efforts in the southeastern portion. In the western portion of the region antelope numbers have improved since 2012 but remain well below historic averages. Antelope numbers are best in the southern portion of the region. This year, just like last, FWP is offering more licenses than in the previous few years, which reflects the improving population. These are good times for elk hunters, as Montana elk populations continue to be strong across most of the state. In many hunting districts, however, access to private lands can be difficult, which can affect hunting success given landownership patterns and distribution of elk. Even if you didn't draw a special permit this year, remember that Montana offers numerous opportunities to hunt for elk with just a general hunting license. The most recent winter surveys indicated that elk in southeast Montana are continuing moderate growth and gradual expansion into unoccupied available habitat. FWP biologists observed strong calf recruitment (52 per 100 cows) and an excellent composition of bulls (40 per 100 cows). The Missouri Breaks (hunting district 700) and Custer Forest Elk Management Unit (HDs 702, 704, 705) remain the two core elk populations. Outside of these areas, elk numbers across the region are low, distribution is spotty and elk are primarily found on private land where public hunting access is limited. Bull hunting is by permit only in HDs 700, 702, 704, 705 and the far western portion of 701. In HD 703 and in the rest of 701, hunters can pursue either-sex elk with a general license. New starting in the 2016 hunting season is the 007-00 B license. This license is valid for antlerless elk throughout Region 7 except for the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge and the Custer Gallatin National Forest. An easy way for hunters to remember where they can use the 007-00 antlerless elk license is that its valid everywhere except what is green on a Bureau of Land Management ownership map (green being national forest or federal wildlife refuge areas). It is important for hunters to note that there are no elk shoulder seasons in any of the hunting districts in Region 7. Additional antlerless opportunities exist in the region via a general and/or B-license, and hunters are encouraged to review the regulations for more details on those opportunities. Hunters should be aware that the Lodgepole Complex fire burned over 225,000 acres in the western portion of HD 700 (and 45,000 acres in HD 701). Much of the area that burned in HD 700 was timbered elk habitat; however, roughly two-thirds of the elk habitat in HD 700 was not burned (the northern boundary of the fire was near Squaw Creek). Further, within the burn perimeter there is a mosaic of small pockets that were not burned, and areas where the fire did not reach the crowns of the pines. Pending additional moisture and some cool-season grass regeneration, hunters might still have success finding elk within the burn perimeter. Northeast Mule deer populations are still on a steady increase across the region but vary depending on the hunting district. Generally speaking, the mule deer are above long-term averages. Areas of note are north of Havre, where mule deer numbers are well above average, and in the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge, north of the Missouri, where mule deer numbers are below average. White-tailed deer are on the increase across the region, but still just below average. Populations in the eastern part of the region in more of the prairie/cropland habitats are doing better than populations along the Milk and Missouri rivers. Although whitetails are recovering in recent years, still expect lower deer numbers in areas along those rivers. In the northeast corner of the state, decline in CRP and habitat changes are moving deer around and they may not be in traditional areas. Elk hunting opportunities in most areas in Region 6 are limited to licenses/permits awarded through special drawings. Those hunting districts where elk hunting is allowed on a general license are mostly areas with smaller elk populations and very limited elk hunting opportunity. Regionwide, the weather conditions the past several years have been favorable for elk with milder winters and good spring precipitation, although 2017 has been hotter and drier. Elk populations in the region continue to fair well and have been increasing. Elk numbers are above average across the region. Elk shoulder seasons will occur in northeast Montana from Dec. 15-31. Hunters interested in participating in this hunting season will have had to already drawn a shoulder season license (License 696-00 or 699-00) to hunt during this shoulder season. General season elk licenses are not valid during the elk shoulder season in FWP Region 6. The Missouri Breaks shoulder season license (699-00) is not valid on the CMR Refuge. Make sure youre familiar with the regulations for the area you plan on hunting. In general, antelope populations are stable to increasing across the region, but in most cases still remain below long-term averages. Antelope licenses are distributed through the drawing system. Major reductions in licenses were seen following the winter of 2010-11, however some increase in licenses have been seen since that time. Those who have drawn licenses should have a very good opportunity to harvest an antelope. Fire danger is higher throughout the region so please be careful while hunting and camping and avoid driving or parking in taller vegetation. Please also check all local fire restrictions prior to hunting. Kula Pelima, 30, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of her son and his brother A Delaware mom has been arrested and charged with drowning her infant son and his brother in the bathroom of their home. Kula Pelima, 30, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of her three-month-old son and the baby's five-year-old half brother. Pelima called the police and confessed to drowning the two boys around 8.30am Tuesday. The mom met officers at the front door of the Wilmington home when they arrived. 'She was concerned about her immigration status,' Wilmington Police Chief Robert Tracy said about the mom's first call to police Monday at 3.45am. Pelima is a Liberian immigrant who came to the Us in 1997. She was reportedly worried about what could happen to her because her boyfriend and father of the boys was detained by authorities on an immigration issue a week prior. Investigators have been in touch with the father of the boys, who is being held in Pennsylvania by immigration officials. Pelima was arrested at the scene and is being held on $2million bond. Scroll down for video Pelima called police Tuesday to confess to killing the two boys at her home in Wilmington, Delaware Disturbing court documents obtained by WDEL describe the actions Pelima took to kill the two boys. Pelima explained to police that she took the three-month-old upstairs on Monday, October 16 and dropped him into the tub, then plugged the drain and turned on the water. She then left the infant in the tub as it filled with water to retrieve the five-year-old. Authorities said the mom told them she physically assaulted the boy before walking him to the bathroom and held his head under water until he stopped moving. This happened just a month shy of the boy's sixth birthday. Neighbor Aunjea Daniels, 25, told Delmarva Now she often saw the woman and her children outside their home. 'She seemed like a happy parent,' she said. 'She was usually uplifting. She seemed happy and her children were well-groomed. I would have never thought she would do something like this.' Two days after the old round 1 coin became obsolete on British high streets there are still payphones, ticket machines and arcade games still refusing to take the new one. A MailOnline investigation revealed equipment in Glasgow, Liverpool, Sheffield, London and Cambridge are lagging behind as they refused to accept the 12-sided coin. The new coin is the only one being accepted over the counter now after the Royal Mint discontinued is predecessor on Sunday, but it appears some cities are still stuck in the past. A MailOnline investigation revealed customers in Glasgow, Manchester, London and Cambridge were still facing frustration with some firms lagging behind on updating their equipment A phonebox on Stratford Road in Shirley, near Birmingham, which rejected the new pound coin A city map machine in Bristol which would not accept the new coin two days after the old one was made obsolete Despite the old 1 no longer being legal tender there are still some phone boxes and parking meters across Glasgow not accepting the new coins. A BT phonebox on the city centre Argyle Street did not accept the new legal tender, and customers are still unable to use them at some council run car parks. While the majority of parking metres across Glasgow city centre accept the new, 12-sided 1 coins, there are still eight per cent of Glasgow City Council machines that don't. A parking machine in Glasgow which would not accept the 12-sided coin The local authority is in the midst of a major overhaul of 1,000 old machines. A spokeswoman for the council said: 'There are old machines in almost every location of the city with the exception of City Centre, Hillhead, Dowanhill, Park Circus, Partick, Yorkhill. 'These all have new, refurbished machines. 'The removal of the old machines has already started with the remainder being removed once we have new machines up and running in the area. 'There are more than 1,000 parking meters spread across the city, the vast majority of which accept the new 1. 'We have been working since last November on a comprehensive programme of replacement or refurbishment, with less than 8 percent of our meters yet to be upgraded or replaced. 'Every local authority in the UK has been relying on one specialist supplier for alterations to existing meters and regrettably this has resulted in some delays to our programme. 'While we apologise for any inconvenience, all machines still accept silver coins and we also offer cashless payment via your mobile or smart phone on RINGGO. 'We are working with contractors to have the outstanding machines upgraded as quickly as possible and anticipate that this will be complete by the end of next week.' The brand new ticket machines at Cambridge North Railway Station did not accept the new pound coins A phonebox in Saint Andrews Street in Cambridge city centre which rejected the new pound coin A green Bugatti Veyron ride for children in The Grafton Centre in Cambridge did not accept the coins A crane claw game in the Cambridge Leisure Park spat out the new pound coin in the city The brand new ticket machines at Cambridge North Railway Station did not accept the new pound coins. The station, which is a short walk away from the city's science park, was opened on May 21 after plans to build it were approved in 2013. But both ticket machines that accepted cash near the entrance did not recognise the new pound coin. A member of staff claimed that they had developed a fault recently as she had found the new coins while emptying their cash boxes. Elsewhere in the university city, arcade games and car rides rejected the new coin as well as some payphones. A phonebox on Great Ancoats Street in Greater Manchester did not accept the new pound coin In the capital, parking and train ticket machines appear to have been upgraded to accept new coin. But one machine was unable to accept the new coins, which officially replaced the old version on Monday. A parking ticket machine near London Bridge, operated by Southwark Council, had a sticker warning motorists only the old coin is accepted - despite going out of circulation on Monday. It said: 'Please be aware this machine doesn't accept the new one pound coin. 'We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.' The machine on Weston Street spat out the new pound coin, with stuck motorists only able to pay using their mobile phone. A BT phone booth on Argyle Street, Glasgow. It did not accept the new, 12-sided pound coin Sidney Street NCP Sheffield would only accept phone payments, meaning customers could not pay with the new pound coin Manchester and Birmingham, like London, appear to be on the ball. Parking machines, supermarket trolleys and ticket machines all accepted the 12-sided coin, although a phonebox in each of the cities rejected the new 1. Sidney Street NCP Sheffield would only accept phone payments, meaning customers could not pay with the new pound coin. Our reporters also tested machines in Liverpool, all of which accepted the new coins. Why the change? What do I do if I find an old coin? Are there more changes? All your questions answered What is happening to the old 1 coin? From Monday, shops, vending machines and other businesses are under no obligation to accept the old round coin. The money will no longer be legal tender. Instead most will insist you pay with a shiny new 12-sided 1 coin. These started to be put into circulation in March. What if I find old 1 coins? You can pop into your local bank, building society or post office to trade the out-of-date coins for the new legal tender. Some might be a bit sniffy about taking your coins and only accept them if you have an account there. Those feeling prudent might prefer to deposit their cash. As many as 500 million old 1 coins are still believed to be in circulation. No cut-off date has been set for when banks will no longer accept them. Can I still spend the old coins? There are a few places that will take them, but only for a short period. Supermarket giant Tesco says it will accept them until this time next week. Budget rival Aldi and retailer Poundland have gone one better by agreeing to take the coins until the end of the month. Can I give any old coins to charity? Good causes are eager to accept the coins, even after their use-by date. An estimated 1.3 billion in coins is stored in jam jars and piggy banks, up to 400 million of which is in 1 coins. BBC Children in Need has launched a Pudseys Round Pound Countdown appeal, while Poverty Child is sending out freepost envelopes for the old coins. Other charities welcoming them include Oxfam, The Rainbow Charity and Born Free. What is the point of this change? To tackle counterfeit coins. An estimated one in 30 of the old 1 coins is a forgery. To beat fraudsters it was necessary to introduce high-tech coins that are harder to copy. Security features include a hologram-style picture on the coin where you can read a or 1 symbol depending on the angle you look at it. The coins silver-coloured inner circle and gold-coloured outer ring also make it more difficult to counterfeit. The coin also contains special security measures invisible to the naked eye. How are vending machines affected? All vending machines, parking meters, self-service checkouts and shopping trolleys should from tomorrow reject the old coins and accept the new coins. But do not hold your breath. Up to 10 per cent of ticket machines operated by rail companies have still not been fully updated to accept the new 1 coins. Are there further changes afoot? The next big change is the introduction of a plastic 20 note by 2020, which will be slightly smaller than the existing note. It will feature an image of artist JMW Turner, who replaces economist Adam Smith. A smaller plastic 10 note was introduced last month in a bid to provide a harder wearing and more difficult-to-forge currency. It has a picture of author Jane Austen on one side that replaces that of naturalist Charles Darwin. No specific date has been given for the old notes to be taken out of circulation, but it will be in spring next year. This all follows the replacement of the 5 note in September last year with a polymer-based version. The new notes feature wartime leader Sir Winston Churchill, who replaced social reformer Elizabeth Fry. The old fiver went out of circulation in May this year. Like the old pound coins they can still be traded in at a post office or bank. There are no further planned changes for coins on the horizon, but Bank of England governor Mark Carney has hinted that the 1p coin could be scrapped. No matter how old your currency, the Bank of England will always exchange out-of-date money. Advertisement Nearly half a billion old 1 coins remain in pockets, purses and piggy banks even though they cease to be legal tender today. With the Treasury saying 450 million of the coins are still in circulation, more than a third of people surveyed said at least half the pounds in their possession were the old round ones rather than their 12-sided replacements. LOOK OUT FOR THESE TREASURES Some old 1 coins are worth more than their face value: The head side of the coin has always featured the Queen, but there have been numerous tails and a few are collectable. One of the most sought after is a 2011 coin bearing Edinburghs coat of arms and an image of its castle. Only 935,000 were produced and top examples swap hands for up to 30. About 1.6 million Cardiff 1 coins featuring an image of a dragon holding a flag were made in 2011 and are worth up to 20 apiece. A London 1 coin featuring the St Georges cross was produced in 2010. More than 2.6 million were made and they are worth up to 10. Advertisement But those leftover coins can be donated to help make dreams come true for seriously ill children in the Mail's Quids For Kids campaign. We are asking readers to generously give them to Make-A-Wish Foundation UK, to help some of the 20,000 young people who are fighting cancer and other life-threatening conditions. The charity supports youngsters who endure gruelling treatment and have to spend long periods in hospital away from family and friends. Those granted a wish have starred in their own films, swum with dolphins and met their heroes. The Mail has partnered with Nationwide Building Society, which will take old 1 coins for the charity until December 20. Just hand them to the cashier at any Nationwide branch, saying you wish to give them to the Mail's Quids For Kids MakeA-Wish Foundation UK appeal. You can also make extra donations there. If you don't have any old pound coins, you can donate online, by text message, or by cheque (see below). Some 37 per cent of respondents in a weekend poll of 500 people said half or more of the coins in their wallet were the old design and a fifth said they had more old coins than new. The replacement 12-sided 1 coins are said to be the most secure ever made with a host of design features meant to stop them being copied. An army of engineers has been modifying machines to accept the new coins as part of a process that will cost more than 100 million. A spokesman for the Royal Mint said of today's cut-off date: 'The overwhelming majority of businesses tell us they are ready, and the small minority who choose to keep accepting the old coin, after it ceases to be legal tender, will have to make their own arrangements to deal with these.' President Donald Trump contended at a Tuesday press conference that foreign leaders were afraid of him winning last year because they knew he meant business. The comment came after a White House reporter confronted Greece's prime minister with his charge last year that Trump's beliefs are 'evil.' 'I will not allow our country, the United States of America, to be taken advantage of by so many other countries all over the world,' Trump said at the joint White House news conference with Greece's Alexis Tsipras. 'So, I can understand how certain countries, and the leaders of certain countries may feel.' President Donald Trump contended at a Tuesday press conference that foreign leaders were afraid of him winning last year because they knew he meant business. The comment came after a White House reporter confronted Greece's prime minister with his charge last year that Trump's beliefs are 'evil' Fox News Correspondent John Roberts teed Tsipras up with a question about a statement he made last year regarding Trump's presumptive nomination for president. 'The ideas it represents, the appeal it reaches and the threat to become even president - I hope we will not face this evil,' Tsipras said in 2016. Tsipras told Roberts on Tuesday, according to the White House translator, 'The US is a very strong power and their ability to intervene for good [is] very, very important.' His meeting with Trump today was 'productive,' the Greek leader added. 'Not a moment did I feel threatened at any time. I saw that there was a very fertile outlook here, in order to set aside any difference we may have to find the common ground.' Trump sighed and shook his head as his counterpart extolled on the countries' important traditional, historical and common objectives. 'The value of democracy and freedom was born in Greece,' he said, and American culture carries on that tradition. 'The president today of the US continues this tradition, and I think our collaboration will be very substantial, and I'm very optimistic after the meeting that we had today,' Tsipras said. Trump jumped in to add that 'a number of countries were a little bit nervous at the beginning' of his candidacy, 'and I have very good relationships with the leaders of virtually every country that I've dealt with.' 'The reason they were concerned is because I will not allow our country, the United States of America to be taken advantage of by so many other countries all over the world,' Trump proclaimed. The former businessman brought up the United States' trade deficits, the jobs that have left, and the products that are made overseas and sold back into the US. 'I'm not gonna be allowing that. So, I can understand how certain countries, and the leaders of certain countries may feel. But we're just not going to allow the United States to be taken advantage of by other countries anymore,' he asserted. 'And there's nothing we can do about that.' Roberts question had generated laughter from both the US and foreign press, as well as Tsipras. Before the Greek leader could answer him, Trump said in a teasing tone, 'I wish I knew that before my speech!' Roberts' question had generated laughter from both the US and foreign press, as well as Tsipras. Before the Greek leader could answer him, Trump said in a teasing tone, 'I wish I knew that before my speech!' Trump, in his opening remarks, had been laudatory of Tsipras and his country. 'He's a special man who's done a very special job,' Trump had said. 'Greece is a cradle of Western civilization....America looks on that glorious heritage with wonder and with awe.' Continuing, Trump said, 'You do indeed have a tremendous heritage, Mr. Prime Minister.' Trump said he was pleased that the United States would be the country of honor at next year's International Trade Fair in Greece. 'I look forward to having many productive discussions with you, and to having a very close and warm cooperation on a wide range of shared objectives,' Trump said. 'We will build upon our foundation of shared history and shared values to pursue a future of security, prosperity and peace for both your nation and ours.' Tsipras said in his remarks that the friendship between the countries is 'very strong' and based on democratic values. A 20-year-old man who died in a triple stabbing outside Parsons Green Tube station has been named by police who say he was killed after confronting a drug dealer. Omid Saidy, from Fulham, was pronounced dead at the scene at 8.30pm on Monday, while two males, aged 20 and 16, were taken to hospital. Scotland Yard said he was killed after he confronted a drug dealer and another male who was with him. Omid Saidy was stabbed to death after he chased a drug dealer and another man down the street Detectives believe Mr Saidy chased the pair and was fatally stabbed when he caught up to them. Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh, from the Met, said: 'A young man has tragically lost his life for simply asking a drug dealer to move on. I urge anyone who can assist our investigation to come forward without delay.' The victim's 20-year-old friend, who arrived on the scene on a moped, was also stabbed when he came to his aid, police said. The bike collided with a parked vehicle at the scene, but police said the incident is not a 'moped-enabled crime'. Police at Parsons Green Tube station in London after three people were stabbed in the street One of the suspects, described as a black male dressed in dark clothing, fled down Harbled Road in the direction of Fulham Court. A 16-year-old white male, who was discharged from hospital after he was treated for his injuries, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Appealing for witnesses, Mr McHugh added: 'It is imperative that we speak to anyone who was in the area of Parsons Green station between 7pm and 8pm who may have witnessed the murder or the actions of the suspects immediately following the incident. 'In addition, I am keen to identify the black male who fled Parsons Green Lane immediately following the murder and am appealing for footage that members of the public may have recorded as events in the area took place.' Meanwhile, a 16-year-old boy has been charged with murder after a 20-year-old man was stabbed to death in Forest Gate in east London on Sunday afternoon. Police said a postmortem found the victim, who has not been formally identified, died from a stab wound to the heart. The 16-year-old is due to appear at Barkingside youth court on Wednesday. A tiger kept at a Louisiana truck stop that had been the center of a controversial legal battle has died at the age of 17. Tiger Truck Stop owner Michael Sandlin says Tony the Bengal-Siberian mix was euthanized Monday because he was old, ill, and medicine hadn't helped. The Indian Tiger Welfare Society says tigers in zoos generally live 16 to 20 years. A Bengal-Siberian tiger that lived at a truck stop in Louisiana has died at the age of 17 Sandlin says the decision was hard. He says that after undergoing a necropsy to benefit tiger care, Tony will be taxidermied and displayed along with a predecessor named Sabrina, which died of cancer. A statement regarding Tony's passing says that he 'began to exhibit typical signs that death was imminent' and was euthanized to prevent suffering. The tiger had lived at the truck stop since January 2001, when he was six months old. A statement regarding Tony's passing says that he 'began to exhibit typical signs that death was imminent' and was euthanized to prevent suffering The Animal Legal Defense Fund fought to move Tony from the Baton Rouge-area truck stop to a tiger sanctuary 'Tony knew many of the regular visitors to his Grosse Tete home and was known for rubbing against the bars of his enclosure and "chuffing" to those he liked,' the statement said. The Animal Legal Defense Fund fought to move Tony from the Baton Rouge-area truck stop to a tiger sanctuary. It says it will keep fighting to uphold Louisiana's ban on private ownership of big cats. 'For more than seven years, we litigated on many fronts to free Tony, and we are devastated that despite our best efforts, he lived and died caged at a truck stop that could never provide the life he deserved,' The ALDF said in a statement. The tiger had lived at the truck stop since January 2001, when he was six months old Tony lived in a 3,200 square-foot enclosure and was the subject of a documentary called How To Not Kill A Tiger In 2014, the governor of Louisiana passed a law exempting the truck stop from the state's ban on big cats, angering animal rights activists. Tony lived in a 3,200 square-foot enclosure and was the subject of an award-winning feature documentary called How To Not Kill A Tiger. Sandlin says he plans to continue his challenge. 'We will continue to fight with vigor to uphold the constitutionality of Louisianas Big Cat Ban against the challenges to that law from the Tiger Truck Stops owner, Michael Sandlin,' the ALDF statement reads. 'A victory in this litigation will ensure that Tony will be the last tiger to suffer at the Truck Stop and there will never be a Tony II or Tony III who will have to suffer the same fate.' A federal judge in Hawaii blocked the Trump administration Tuesday from enforcing its latest travel ban, just hours before it was set to take effect. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the policy that was to be implemented starting early Wednesday. He found Trump's executive order 'suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor.' The judge, appointed by former President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling that found President Donald Trump's previous ban exceeds the scope of his authority. Ban: Federal district judge Derrick Watson, sitting in Honolulu, said that the latest Trump travel ban was in breach of the constitution in the same way as previous iteratations Demonstrations: Hawaii has long been a flashpoint over the travel ban, with the state seeing protests against it in June The latest version 'plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation,' Watson wrote. The Trump administration in September announced the restrictions affecting citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen - and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. The government has said the new policy was based on an objective assessment of each country's security situation and willingness to share information with the U.S. Hawaii argued in court documents that the updated ban is a continuation of Trump's 'promise to exclude Muslims from the United States' despite the addition of two non-majority Muslim countries. Other courts are weighing challenges to the latest travel restrictions. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions in the president's latest proclamation. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland have challenged the policy before U.S. District Judge James Robart in Seattle, who struck down Trump's initial ban in January. That policy led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Trump revised the ban, state Attorney General Doug Chin changed the lawsuit to challenge that version. In March, Watson agreed with Hawaii that it amounted to discrimination based on nationality and religion. A subsequent U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate that 90-day ban on visitors from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and a 120-day ban on all refugees. But it said the policy didn't apply to refugees and travelers with a 'bona fide relationship' with a person or entity in the U.S. Hawaii then successfully challenged the federal government's definition of which family members would be allowed into the country. Watson ordered the government not to enforce the ban on close relatives such as grandparents, grandchildren, uncles and aunts. The judge's order Tuesday prevents acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson from implementing the latest travel ban. Watson said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order should be extended. Tanvir Raffi, of Yorktown, was pulled over Saturday morning for a traffic violation A driver has been arrested in Virginia after police allegedly found more than $73,000 in untaxed cigarettes in his vehicle during a traffic stop in Delaware. Tanvir Raffi, of Yorktown, Virginia, was pulled over by Georgetown police at around 11am on Saturday over a traffic violation. They say they found a total of 5,060 packs of cigarettes during a consensual search of his Ford Explorer. Raffi was arrested on four counts of possession of untaxed tobacco products and one count of attempting to evade or defeat tax. He was arraigned and released on $6,400 unsecured bond. Virginia is a hotspot for interstate cigarette trafficking, since businesses can buy the product wholesale without paying the state sales tax. Earlier this year, a Fredericksburg man pleaded guilty to trafficking more than $7million worth of cigarettes he obtained using a gas station as a front. A 24-year-old man is on trial in Ohio for fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend after calling him the 'N-word' and posting a half-naked picture of the woman on social media. Earl Jones, who is white, was arrested in May 2016 and charged with murder in the killing of 19-year-old Kevin Neri, who was of mixed race. Jones maintains that he shot Neri in self-defense, just hours before the two were scheduled to meet for a fistfight, and that the incident was not related to the victim's race, as some activists have suggested. Love triangle: Earl Jones (left), 24, is on trial for allegedly murdering 19-year-old Kevin Neri (right), who was dating his ex-girlfriend Jones and Cyerra Prather, 21 (right), had a son together (inset), and friends testified that the ex-boyfriend was angry she was dating a mixed race man (left) But according to testimony from Neri's friends, for months Jones had been seething that his former girlfriend, 21-year-old Cyerra Prather, was dating a black man. Jones and Prather had a son together when she was 16 years old. In text message exchanges with Prather, including on the day of the fatal incident, Jones repeatedly referred to her new boyfriend as a 'n*****,' she told the court from the witness stand Monday, according to Cincinnati Enquirer. Jones and Neri also traded angry Facebook and text messages, according to testimony from the victim's friend. The apparent animosity between the old boyfriend and the new exploded on May 16, 2016, when Jones posted a photo on Facebook and Twitter depicting a scantily clad Prather. Neri's friend Jason Yazell told the court Monday that when the 19-year-old saw the image on social media, he decided to fight his rival. Self-defense claim: Jones, pictured with his son, maintains that he shot Neri in self-defense and that the incident was not racially motivated That evening, Jones was coming over to Prather's home in Colerain Township to pick up their 4-year-old on, and also to settle his dispute with Neri. Neri was talking to Prather outside her home in the 2800 block of Overdale Drive at around 8pm when, according to witnesses, Jones pulled up in his car, shot his rival three times from a .38-caliber revolver and sped away. Prather's mother, who was home at the time, tried to stanch the bleeding from Neris wounds, but he did not survive. Jones called 911 from his car and told the dispatcher that he killed Neri in self-defense. He then drove to a nearby Hamilton County Sheriff's station and turned himself in. The group Black Lives Matter has taken up Neri's cause, portraying him on social media as a victim of a racially motivated crime, reported the station WCPO. Jones posted a photo on Facebook and Twitter depicting a scantily clad Prather (left), which prompted Neri (right) to challenge him to a fistfight that ended in his killing Today marks the first anniversary of the racist murder of Kevin Neri, the group posted on its Facebook page in May 2017. But Jones's attorney, Bill Gallagher, argued that his client's text messages featuring the N-word have been taken out of context. I don't even think the prosecutor's office thinks this is about race. Its a straight case of self-defense, the attorney previously said. He noted that his client has African-American relatives and insisted that he is not racist. A 19-year-old Colorado Springs man has been accused of stabbing his young siblings to death and attacking his father. Malik Vincent Murphy, who is reportedly on medication for a severe mental illness, allegedly attacked the three with a knife at their home just after 1am on Tuesday; his sister, five, and brother, seven, died despite efforts from EMTs. Colorado Springs police Lt. Howard Black told KKTV 11 that the 'horrific' incident had affected first responders, adding: 'when you're talking about two young children, it's hard to put into words. It's very, very difficult for our staff.' Video from KKTV Malik Murphy (pictured in mugshot) was arrested early Tuesday morning for allegedly stabbing his father and siblings. The children died in hospital; the father's expected to recover The attack occurred at the family's home (pictured). Investigators are still not sure why the attack occurred. Murphy reportedly has a severe mental illness Detectives are not yet sure what happened before the attack, but say they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the killings. All three victims were transported to hospital, but only Murphy's father - who has not yet been identified by police - survived. He is expected to recover. Other family members were at home during the attacks but were not hurt, Black said. They - and family friends - are now being interviewed about the incident to try to piece together what happened. In March Malik was arrested (mugshot from that arrest pictured) for setting his parents' car alight. Charges were dropped on the condition that he had counseling Murphy was also arrested in Effingham County, Illinois, in late March after setting fire to his parents' car, WXEF reported. The car was spotted engulfed in flames on a grassy verge along the Avenue of Mid-America. It's not clear what he was doing in Illinois. When police arrived they spotted Murphy staring at the fire; his clothes matched those of the driver described by witnesses. The case was dismissed in August when Murphy's parents asked for him not to be charged, Effingham County State's Attorney Bryan Kibler said. They said that he had severe mental problems, but was taking medication and had no criminal record. Kibler said that the case was dismissed by local authorities on the condition that Murphy seek counselling, and the teen had undergone at least six sessions prior to the stabbing incident. He also said that Murphy had enrolled at Pike's Peak Community College Anyone with information on the stabbings is asked to call Colorado Springs Police Department at (719) 444-7000. Anonymous tips can be submitted to the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (719) 634-STOP (7867) or 1-800-222-8477. Italian actress Asia Argento is one of more than 50 women who have spoken out against Harvey Weinstein, claiming he raped her while they were promoting the film B. Monkey in 1997. Now it's been revealed that Argento got the role in the first place because Weinstein didn't think the director's first choice for romantic lead was 'f***able' enough. Michael Canton-Jones, the first director hired on the film, told BuzzFeed News on Monday about how he was essentially fired for arguing with Weinstein over casting. Sophie Okonedo (left) lost out the romantic lead in 1997's B. Monkey because Harvey Weinstein didn't think she was 'f***able'. Asia Argento, one of the more than 50 women to speak out against Weinstein, was recast in the role (right, in the film) Canton-Jones says he first met Weinstein in 1989, when he was making the film Scandal, which Miramax, Weinstein's company at the time, bought the distribution rights to. Cantor-Jones noted that Weinstein would only visit set on days when sex scenes were being filmed. The two didn't work together until 10 years later, when he was signed on to direct B. Monkey for Miramax. Canton-Jones said he wanted English actress Sophie Okonedo for the role, but knew he would have to get her approved with Weinstein first. So he and Okonedo flew out to California to meet with Weinstein at the Peninsula Hotel, which is 'where the trouble began.' 'Harvey kept saying to me, "Do you think she is f***able?"' Caton-Jones recalled. 'That was what the deal was all the time. I said, "She is the best actress for the job, Harvey." And we started arguing about it. It was only when I said to Harvey, "Don't screw up the casting of this film because you want to get laid," whereupon he went mental.' Michael Canton-Jones (left) was the initial director sign on to make B. Monkey. He says he was essentially fired from the film with Weinstein (right) disagreed with his casting choices Canton-Jones says he went back to his room to cool off and by the time he returned to Weinstein's room to sort things out, a reporter from Variety was calling him to get comment on a story about him allegedly walking off the film. 'I was furious after being kicked off my film, and I told them all about what happened. I told them about the harassment claims, and I said "Here is your quote: I don't cast films according to Harvey Weinstein's erection," and they just laughed,' Caton-Jones said. After that, Weinstein hired a new director, Michael Radford, to take over the project and Argento was cast in the role that they had quarreled over. 'I was the stupid one who stood up and told him to go to hell,' Caton-Jones told BuzzFeed News. 'I stood up to him and told him to go f*** himself. And I got a lot of support from a lot of people when I did that, but you know, I didn't make the film, so he won.' In an interview with the New Yorker last week, Argento revealed that Weinstein first assaulted her in France in 1997, when the two were promoting the film. She said one of Weinstein's producers said they were going to a party at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, but when they arrived at the hotel room, only Weinstein was inside. The producer soon left, leaving her and Weinstein alone. Argento said Weinstein left the room at one point and came back wearing a bathrobe and holding a bottle of lotion. 'He asks me to give a massage. I was, like, "Look, man, I am no f***ing fool,"' Argento said. 'But, looking back, I am a f***ing fool. And I am still trying to come to grips with what happened.' She reluctantly gave him a massage and he proceeded to pull her skirt up and force her legs apart to forcibly perform oral sex - despite her repeated protestations to stop. Argento said at one point she stopped saying no and feigned enjoyment, hoping he would stop. Over the next five years, Argento says she had a consensual sexual relationship with Weinstein, but one was was motivated by her fear that he would ruin her career if she denied him. Argento's story mirrors the testimonies of the scores of women who have spoken out again Weinstein. Many were at the start of their careers when they were cornered by Weinstein in a hotel room meeting. On Tuesday, Weinstein officially resigned from the Weinstein Co, after calling into a board meeting. A Rebels bikie boss was deported from Australia to his native New Zealand this week after his visa was cancelled for a third time amid a crackdown on gang activity. Aaron 'AJ' Graham, the founder of the Rebel's Tasmania chapter, was escorted through a side door onto an Air New Zealand flight from Sydney to Auckland on Tuesday, according to The Herald Sun. Graham is among 154 senior bikie members including AFL star Dustin Martin's dad Shane who have had their visas cancelled since 2014. Rebels bikie senior Aaron 'AJ' Graham (pictured), 50, was deported from Australia to his native New Zealand this week after his visa was cancelled for a third time amid a crackdown on gang activity The 50-year-old is among 154 senior bikie members including AFL star Dustin Martin's (right) dad Shane (left) who have had their visas cancelled since 2014 The 50-year-old, who has distinctive tattoos covering half his face, won a High Court appeal against his second visa cancellation on September 6. Within hours of the ruling, Immigration Minister Peter Dutton cancelled Graham's visa for a third time, the publication reported. It is understood Mr Dutton argued that Graham didn't meet character standards. Changes to migration laws in 2014 granted Mr Dutton greater power to cancel visas of foreign-born people who have been convicted of a crime and sentenced to more than 12 months in jail or those suspected of being involved in gang activity. In 2009, Graham was convicted of attacking a 19-year-old insurance fraud investigator, punching and kicking him repeatedly before poking his eye with an aerial, the Herald Sun reported. The 50-year-old was sentenced to 15 months in jail. Mr Dutton said Shane Martins (pictured) visa was cancelled for the 'safety of the Australian community' Mr Dutton has been provided with evidence from law enforcement linking bikie gangs to violent crimes, according to the publication. 'What we know of outlaw motorcycle gang members is that they are the biggest distributors of ice and amphetamines in our country,' Mr Dutton said on Tuesday. 'They import, they manufacture and they distribute it, and they are otherwise involved in serious crime, including providing muscle for the CFMEU on building sites around the country.' Mr Dutton told Parliament this week more than 3,000 criminals have been deported over three years. A toy chariot dating back 5,000 years - which archaeologists believe may be the world's oldest 'toy car' - has been discovered in Turkey. The little chair on wheels, made from earthenware, was found during an excavation of the ancient city of Sogmatar, in the south-east of the country. Sogmatar is believed to have been the home of Moses when he had run away from the Pharaoh. A toy chariot dating back 5,000 years - which archaeologists believe may be the world's oldest 'toy car' - has been discovered in Turkey The little chair on wheels, made from earthenware, was found during an excavation of the ancient city of Sogmatar, in the south-east of the country The digs have uncovered a number of tombs, including the ones the toys were found, which had provided a fascinating insight into how ancient civilizations lived Digs in the city have uncovered a number of tombs, including the child's grave the mini-chariot was found, which have provided a fascinating insight into how ancient civilizations lived. In total, 45 tombs have been opened, including three that have remained untouched since the Roman era. A 4,000-year-old baby's rattle dug up in the city of Kultepe in the central Anatolian province of Keyseri in 2014 was at that time hailed as the world's oldest toy. Sogmatar Excavation Head and Sanliurfa Museum Manager Celal Uludag said that Sogmatar was one of the most important excavations in the area. The toy carriage is believed to have been made for the children of kings or the leaders, one of the dig's leaders said Harran University Archaeology Department staff member Assistant Professor Yusuf Albayrak (C) poses for a photo with his team during the ongoing excavations in the ancient city In total, 45 tombs have been opened, including three that have remained untouched since the Roman era Kids are seen at the entrance of the excavation site He added: 'The excavation in this area continues with the permission of the ministry. In the necropolis part, in a tomb room, we found a toy carriage which belongs to the Bronze Age and believed to have been made for the children of kings or the leaders. 'This finding is very important for us as shows the aesthetic and cultural understanding of the period. 'The item will be exhibited in the biggest museum complex of Turkey, the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum. We believe that we are going to find even more important things in the excavation.' An Ohio man was sentenced to 22 years behind bars after pleading guilty Tuesday to the fatal shooting of his youngest child. Jamal Mansour, 64, murdered his daughter, Tahani Mansour, 27, as she slept, claiming his intent was due to her disrespecting 'his rules about coming home late' and refusing 'to clean up her room,' according to Cleveland.com. The nightmare incident happened the night of September 27, 2016 at the family home in Rocky River following a domestic dispute about Tahani's messy bedroom. The furious father of seven said his daughter often left 'piles of clothes all over the room and half-eaten meals left under her bed' after he ordered her to clean. Scroll down for video Jamal Mansour, 64, was sentenced to 22 years for killing his daughter, 27, in her sleep Tahani Mansour (pictured) was murdered by her father after he said she disrespected his house rules and failed to clean her messy bedroom He told authorities after the killing that he believed bringing out a weapon would teach his daughter to 'respect' his house rules He cried in court saying: 'I hope that they can forgive me ... I miss her so much. I wish I was the one that was dead' Back in 2012, Rocky River police were called to the home once before after he threatened suicide when his 'daughter was on a business trip in Las Vegas' He told authorities after the killing he believed bringing out a weapon would teach his daughter to 'respect' him. 'I hope that they can forgive me ... I miss her so much. I wish I was the one that was dead,' he cried Tuesday during his sentencing, the local newspaper reported. While Mansour does not hold a criminal history of abuse, police in Rocky River were called to the home once before after he threatened suicide because his 'daughter was on a business trip in Las Vegas.' Mansour's defense attorney, Angelo Lonardo, said his client has been an 'ideal father' and worked hard to provide for his family as he owns gas stations across Northeast Ohio. Mansour's defense attorney, Angelo Lonardo, said his client has been an 'ideal father' and worked hard to provide for his family The prosecutor said when Tahani was with her secret boyfriend, 'she had to pretend like she was with other people' for fear of her father's reaction But it seems his daughter's messiness wasn't the only thing he was unhappy about in the weeks leading up to her killing. Other issues were addressed during investigation - one in particular regarding Tahani's secret dating life. She was reportedly dating a man who did not have the same religious beliefs as the family. She was forced to keep their relationship private for fear of her father's reaction. 'She was worried about what would happen if he found out,' said Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Andrew Rogalski. 'When she was with him, she had to pretend like she was with other people.' She died while undergoing emergency brain surgery following the shooting to her face and head This booking photo provided by the Rocky River, Ohio, Division of Police shows Mansour. He who pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and felonious assault At the time of Mansour's deadly rage, he shot his daughter twice - once on the side of her face and once in the back of her head. She died while undergoing emergency brain surgery following the trauma. Mansour reportedly stayed at the home while she underwent surgery, when he admitted to police he shot her. Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge, Nancy Margaret Russo, condemned Mansour, saying: 'I bet the last thing she worried about happening to her is being killed by her own father.' During Tuesday's hearing, the crying father could be seen blowing kisses to family members across the court room and apologizing for his wrongdoing. The late Tahani had a promising career working as a pharmacist at University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center in Beachwood. The topic was bipartisanship. The speakers: former Vice President Joe Biden and Republican Ohio Gov. John Kasich. And as their conversation got going at the University of Delaware on Tuesday, both men lamented the Trump administration and the current culture in Washington. Biden said 14 heads of state from around the world have contacted him for advice, including one European leader he wouldn't identify, who said President Donald Trump reminds him of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. Biden called Trump's behavior 'absolutely bizarre.' 'Violating the norms of personal conduct generates more anxiety and fear than any policy prescription that this president has enunciated,' Biden told the University of Delaware audience Critique: Biden launched his most outspoken attack on the president on Tuesday, claiming one European leader had compared the president to Mussolini 'Violating the norms of personal conduct generates more anxiety and fear than any policy prescription that this president has enunciated,' Biden said. 'This breaking down of international and national norms is the glue that holds the liberal world order together, and holds together our system. 'That is what is being attacked and that's what's most dangerous.' Kasich stressed the importance of humility and goodness, both in government and in life outside of politics. Humility and love, Kasich said, are too often forgotten or overlooked. 'We see the failures in government, the inability to put the good of our society over the good of re-election,' he said. 'I look around at the rest of our culture. I look at Equifax, I look at Wells Fargo ... I look at these companies and say, is it about profit without value?' Kasich added that he recently banned Wells Fargo from doing business in Ohio. 'When you look at our culture,' Kasich said, 'I begin to wonder, have we lost our way?' Confession: Ryan Sharpe, 36, was arrested in connection to three shootings in Louisiana after he called police and confessed A suspected serial killer was arrested in Louisiana last week after he called a sheriff's office and claimed responsibility for a string of shootings that killed three men and wounded a fourth, according to a law enforcement official. Ryan Sharpe, 36, wasn't a suspect in the shootings until he called the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff's Office last Wednesday and identified himself as the killer, said the official, who spoke only on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing. After the call ended, the sheriff's office called Sharpe again but he didn't answer, according to the official. However, Sharpe later called them back and once again identified himself as the shooter they were seeking, the official said. The calls immediately led investigators to Sharpe's home in Clinton, where officers saw him drive away in a white four-door Nissan Altima. They tried to pull him over but he led them on a high-speed car chase that eventually ended with his arrest, authorities said. Sheriff Jeff Travis has said Sharpe confessed when investigators questioned him after his arrest, but the sheriff declined last week to say how authorities identified Sharpe as a suspect. Greg Phares, chief deputy for the sheriff's office, said Tuesday that he couldn't disclose any additional details of the investigation. The Clinton plumber has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder in connection with four shootings since July in the same area, including a Boy Scout employee who was killed last Monday near the camp where he worked. Scroll down for video Sharpe (above being arrested) is accused of killing Thomas Bass, 62, on July 8, Carroll Breeden, 66, on September 19 and Brad DeFranceschi, 48, on Monday. Buck Hornsby, 47, was wounded on September 12 Sharpe (above being arrested) confessed to police that he committed the crimes during interrogation, authorities say. A judge appointed the Baton Rouge-based public defender's office to represent Sharpe, according to chief district defender Michael Mitchell, who said he couldn't comment. East Baton Rouge Sheriff Sid Gautreaux would not comment on a motive in the drive-by shootings in East Feliciana and East Baton Rouge Parishes or say whether the suspect knew the victims. The grant jury was supposed to receive Sharpe's case on Tuesday, but The Advocate reported that it has been pushed back to November 13 after investigators learned new details on Monday that they hope would shed light on a motive. Sharpe is accused of killing Thomas Bass, 62, on July 8, Carroll Glynn Breeden, 66, on September 19 and Brad DeFranceschi, 48, on Monday. Buck Hornsby, 47, was wounded on September 12 in a shooting that took place roughly 10 miles down Louisiana Highway 63 from DeFranceschi's home. Breeden, a former Baton Rouge parks official, and Hornsby both were near a road, but Bass was shot on his property. Authorities began to pursue Sharpe last Wednesday around 2.50pm when he left his house in a white Nissan Altima, WBRZ reported. That car matched the description of the shooter's vehicle involved in the fatal incident at DeFranceschi's home on Monday. Sharpe then led police on a high speed chase across several parishes after not pulling over outside of his home in East Baton Rouge, authorities say. According to his arrest report, he was eventually stopped and found to be armed with a lever action rifle on the passenger seat. In the most recent shooting on Monday, DeFranceschi (above) was shot multiple times about 11.15am Monday in front of his house on camp property, East Feliciana Parish Sheriff Jeff Travis said. DeFranceschi was a former Navy submarine cook Travis said that Hornsby (above) was shot while exercising near the roadside of his property on La. 63 on September 12 East Feliciana Parish Sheriff Travis said investigators have physical evidence that show Sharpe was behind the shootings. They did not reveal what that is. But a bullet found near Breeden's body on Pride-Port Hudson Road matched on found in the wall of DeFranceschi's home, according to his arrest report. In the most recent shooting on Monday, DeFranceschi was shot multiple times about 11.15am Monday in front of his house on camp property, Travis said. The Avondale Scout Reservation website lists DeFranceschi as a camp ranger - someone who maintains the camp, which is located outside Clinton and about 29 miles north of Baton Rouge. 'He was the face of Avondale,' Nolan Reynerson, 34, who has worked and volunteered with Boy Scouts for much of his life, told The Advocate. A week later, Carroll Glynn Breeden (right) was killed while he sprayed weeds near the road in the front yard of his home in Pride, which is located over the parish line from Clinton At the time, police said that a vehicle drove by Breeden (right) and the shooter gunned him down Courtesy of WAFB He said DeFranceschi had worked there for 17 years and was a community cornerstone: 'He put a smile on and wore his uniform proudly and was there for every event.' Reynerson said DeFranceschi went beyond maintenance of the 1,600-acre campground, volunteering with his son's and daughter's scout troops, and used his experience as a Navy submarine cook to transform the camp food, improving the meals and opening a fruit and salad bar. 'He's become a staple in the camp,' Reynerson said. 'He did whatever was needed, whether it was fixing something at the camp, teaching kids merit badges ... he was willing.' Bass (right) was fatally shot while outside a house on Highway 63 Travis said that Hornsby was shot while exercising near the roadside of his property on La. 63 on September 12. A week later, Breeden was killed while he sprayed weeds near the road in the front yard of his home in Pride, which is located over the parish line from Clinton. At the time, police said that a vehicle drove by Breeden and gunned him down. Then, on the morning of July 8, Bass was fatally shot while outside of house on Highway 63. Travis said that Bass was found dead closer to his home, unlike the other shootings - which implies that the gunman would have had to walk onto the property. Grinning as they pose behind the stag's antlers, these are the walkers putting their lives at risk for the sake of a quick picture. During the rutting season, in early autumn, stags are known to be at their most dangerous and could charge at any moment as they fight for female attention. But despite signs warning them of the perils of doing so, these hapless punters can be seen standing inches away from the animals' faces as their friends capture the scene on camera. Wildlife photographer Ted Shillitto, 70, told of how he watched as a 'constant stream' of people walk up to the deer in Wollaton Hall Park, Nottingham, as they posed behind the animals and even stroked them. These visitors to Wollaton Hall Park in Nottingham risked their lives by getting up close and personal with some of its deer Mr Shillitto, from Nottingham, said: 'He (one man) had 'suicide squad' written on his t-shirt which I thought was appropriate. 'People don't understand how dangerous these animals are. 'Half an hour before the same deer had been hoofing up the floor, threatening another stag. 'Someone is going to get killed. I seriously wonder if they think they're with Rudolph it's seriously stupid,' he added. Mr Shillitto tried to warn one group of tourists but they carried on with their photo shoot regardless. Despite being strictly warned against doing so, wildlife photographer Ted Shillitto watched 'a constant stream' of visitors approach the deer The images of children and families larking around the wild animals come just weeks after a woman was gored in Richmond Park. Yuan Li, 43 from Leytonstone, east London, said she thought she was 'going to die' after being stabbed through the stomach and leg by a male deer's antlers after it came charging towards her. The fashion designer and milliner was hospitalised and left with puncture wounds so bad that she required treatment by a plastic surgeon. 'Having one charge you is bad enough but to stand there with your arms around their neck while touching them, in this season, when they're rutting,' Mr Shillitto added. This reckless visitor got dangerously close to a stag to get a picture with it. The creatures are currently in their mating season and are notoriously more protective In one image, a young girl can be seen standing just behind a deer with an older man, while in another a young boy crouches behind a stag. In other pictures, onlookers stand just inches from a stag's face as one woman thrusts her phone towards its face. Jerry Warnes, a member of the parks team at Wollaton Hall, told of how warning signs were clearly on display. Mr Warnes, who has worked alongside the animals for many years, said: 'It's common sense, isn't it? 'In October they start jostling for position, they will look to get the does together and fight for the right to breed with them.' The Wollaton Hall Park website reads: 'The deer are very attractive to look at but it is important to remember that deer are wild animals and must be treated with respect. During the rutting (mating) season during September and October, each stag is very protective of his own group of hinds' He added: 'It's the same as other animals you wouldn't want to pose next to a bull in a field really - and they are the same kind of animals. 'We are always going up to people and telling them not to (pose with deer).' Around 200 of the animals roam freely in Wollaton Park and have done for centuries. On its website, visitors are told: 'The deer are very attractive to look at but it is important to remember that deer are wild animals and must be treated with respect. 'During the rutting (mating) season during September and October, each stag is very protective of his own group of hinds.' Yuan Li, 43 from Leytonstone, east London said she thought she was 'going to die' after being stabbed through the stomach and leg by a male deer's antlers after it came charging towards her. She is pictured recovering from her injuries Miss Li took these photographs of her injuries as she was lying in hospital following an operation It adds: 'Any person or animal invading their space at any time may be attacked as the stags will defend their group. 'Please do not feed, touch, or photograph the deer at close proximity.' Charles Smith-Jones, technical adviser to the British Deer Society, said: 'People are fooled into feeling they might be tame and they are there to pet - they are not. 'Give them lots of space - the Royal Parks advise 50 metres (165ft) I would advise slightly more than that. 'All they've got to do is be distracted, their antlers are dangerous, they could take an eye out. Respect the animal's space is a very good message.' Three associates of the MS-13 street gang have pleaded guilty to their roles in the revenge killing of a 15-year-old girl. The pleas Tuesday are the first convictions in the related killings of Damaris Reyes Rivas, of Gaithersburg, Maryland, and 21-year-old Christian Sosa Rivas of Fairfax City. The Washington Post reports that each of the three pleaded guilty to charges that included abduction as part of deals with prosecutors in the girl's death. Scroll down for video Venus Romero Iraheta (left) allegedly screamed she would see Damaris Reyes Rivas 'in 'hell' as she stabbed her on camera during a ritualistic murder. Iraheta is one of 10 suspects accused in the murder of Rivas (right) who was killed in early January by members of the notorious street gang MS-13 Court records indicate that all three are expected to be witnesses in the upcoming trials of three other people charged directly with her killing. Jose Castillo Rivas (pictured), 18, has also been charged in Damaris' killing. An FBI agent testified during a preliminary hearing this summer that Reyes Rivas was killed because gang members believed she had lured Sosa Rivas to his death weeks earlier. The FBI agent also said that her murder was filmed and that a MS-13 female gang-member told her that she would 'see her in hell' before stabbing her to death. The disturbing account was given in at a Virginia court in July, where 17-year-old Jose Cerrato was on trial for orchestrating the murder of Reyes Rivas in a Fairfax County park. Jose Castillo Rivas, 18, has also been charged in Damaris' killing. At least 10 members of MS-13 have been arrested since the gruesome murders were discovered, including Venus Romero Iraheta, 17, who allegedly screamed at the victim as she was filmed cutting her 13-times. Authorities suspect that Rivas's death was ordered by top ranking members of the group in El Salvador, who believe she was responsible for the death of her boyfriend. Jose Martir Larios Espenal, 20, or 'Cannabis' (right) and Edgar Oswaldo Blanco Torres, 24, are charged with murder in the death of Christian Sosa Rivas Angelica Maria Blanco, right, and Keyri Sujey Portillo Gonzalez, left, were charged as co-conspirators in the killing of Sosa Rivas Authorities said that 18 members in total are suspects in both murder cases, which took place in Fairfax County in early January, according to The Washington Post. The FBI says that Cerrato was more than willing to provide video evidence of his devotion to the group by filming the murder. It remains unclear if the footage was ever sent back to leaders in El Salvador. Four unidentified members of the Mara Salvatrucha - 'MS-13' - show their tatoos Damaris' demise was centered on Cerrato's belief that she was ultimately responsible for her boyfriend's killing, luring him into the hands of MS-13 gang members, supposedly upset over the claim the he was a leading member of the group. Angelica Maria Blanco, 19, and Keyri Sujey Portillo Gonzalez, 18, were charged as co-conspirators in Sosa Rivas's murder along with Jose Martir Larios Espenal, 20, and Edgar Oswaldo Blanco Torres, 24. The body of 21-year-old Christian Sosa Rivas was later found along the Potomac River in Dumfries. FBI Special Agent Fernando Uribe described the gang's ruthless internal disciplinary tactics during his July testimony, remarking that 'If someone dies in a clique as a result of a fellow member, the person is killed in retaliation.' Uribe testified Cerrato was close friends with Sosa Rivas and schemed to get Damaris to admit on video that she played a part in luring Sosa Rivas to the location where he was attacked, according to the Post. After drawing Damaris to a location in Lake Accotink Park, she was interrogated, beaten and made to strip in order to 'feel the cold that Christian did,' Uribe testified. Uribe later said that the video footage taken by Cerrato shows 17-year-old Venus Romero Iraheta, who also had a sexual relationship with Sosa Rivas, attack Damaris, saying she would see her in hell before stabbing her in the chest 13 times with a knife, according to the Post. Another MS-13 gang member than struck Damaris in the neck with a wooden stake. Taxi drivers may soon be able to set their own fares in an industry shake-up aimed at making the industry more competitive - which could see prices skyrocket. New laws to allow cab companies to remove fare limits and even meters from cars could come into effect as soon as year's end if passed by State Parliament in Victoria. The proposed reforms have raised concerns the pricing free-for-all could see drivers refusing short fares and steep price-hikes during peak times. Taxi drivers may soon be able to set their own fares in an industry shake-up aimed at making the industry more competitive - but prices could skyrocket (pictured is a stock image) Only those hailing cabs on the streets will need to be provided with fare estimates, and app users will get estimates when they book, The Herald Sun reported. The industry deregulation is an attempt to make the industry more competitive, with ride sharing services such as Uber already using similar models. Uber has been accused of destroying the taxi industry with state governments told they need to do more to protect cab drivers who have seen licences lose value. Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said the reforms are aimed at improving service and reducing fares for passengers. New laws to allow cab companies to remove meters from cars and remove fare limits could come into effect by year's end if passed by State Parliament in Victoria (pictured is a stock image) 'For the first time, we're providing a level playing field by allowing the taxi industry to compete with new providers and giving passengers more choice,' she said. The flexible fare system follows the removal of licence fees for cab operators, and new consumer and passenger protection laws will be put in place. Poll Do you think letting cab drivers set their own fares is a good idea? Yes No Not sure Do you think letting cab drivers set their own fares is a good idea? Yes 6 votes No 65 votes Not sure 1 votes Now share your opinion Uber has been criticised in the past for 'surge pricing' when demand is high, and the reforms have raised fears of similar behaviour across the taxi industry. Ms Allan took Uber to task for their price hikes during public transit crises last year, calling them 'a practice that takes advantage of people at a certain time'. Taxi companies are expected to respond by setting new day and night rates, offering variable tariffs, and giving regular customers set fares to certain destinations. Victorian Taxi Association chief executive Georgia Nicholls said the changes will be good for the industry and consumers. She said she is glad the government is committed to 'fair and equal competition' in the industry. Melbourne taxi operators have been accused of refusing short fares from the airport in the past, with police forced to conduct regular crackdowns. Earlier this month officers from the Hume Highway Patrol fined dozens of drivers after being inundated with complaints from irate passengers. Angry cab drivers blockaded roads at the airport in August in protest again Uber drivers being able to pick up and drop off passengers inside. Former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer spent most of his Monday being interviewed by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team, Politico has learned. Spicer was queried about President Trump's decision to fire former FBI chief James Comey, as well as the president's Oval Office meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Politico's sources said. Spicer, who formerly headed communications for the Republican National Committee, followed in the footsteps of his former boss, ex-RNC Chair Reince Priebus, who had served as Trump's chief of staff. Priebus sat down with Mueller's team on Friday. Former White House Press Secretary spent most of his Monday being interviewed by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team, Politico has learned Special Counsel Robert Mueller took over the Russia probe from the FBI after FBI Director James Comey was fired. He's been speaking to former and current White House officials, most recently Sean Spicer and former Chief of Staff Reince Priebus Spicer's interview was expected since he played a role in both the White House and the campaign, moving his RNC office into Trump Tower during the general election to give the GOP nominee an assist. Politico noted that both former and current White House officials have been probed by Mueller's team on former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn, who resigned in February after it leaked that he had secretly discussed sanctions with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak and then tried to cover those conversations up. Mueller and his team, Politico wrote, are also interested in how a misleading statement for the press was crafted aboard Air Force One, on a meeting Donald Trump Jr had in June 2016 with several Russians. One of the men who arranged the meeting, music publicist Rob Goldstone, in an email to the president's eldest son, promised some dirt on Trump's political rival, Democrat Hillary Clinton. In June, FBI Director James Comey testified before Congress that he believed he was fired over the Russia probe. Politico reported that former Press Secretary Sean Spicer was interviewed by Mueller's team about Comey's firing Ex-Press Secretary Sean Spicer was also asked about President Trump's (center) May meeting in the Oval Office with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov (left) and Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak (right) Mueller is looking into Russia's meddling in the 2016 presidential election, including looking for evidence of collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. Mueller, a former FBI director himself, was appointed in May by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein on the heels of Trump's decision to fire FBI Director Comey, whose agency was handling the Russia probe. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, having done surrogate work for the Trump campaign, had already recused himself from the Russia investigation, leaving the decision to Rosenstein. In June. Comey testified before Congress that he believed his firing was due to the Russia probe, telling lawmakers that Trump had suggested the FBI head stop looking into Flynn. 'It's my judgement that I was fired because of the Russia investigation,' Comey said then. 'I was fired in some way to change, or the endeavor was to change, the way the Russia investigation was being conducted.' Spicer may be able to give Mueller's team his perspective on why Trump made that decision. Trump also baffled the political world by inviting the Russian foreign minister and Russia's ambassador to the U.S. into the Oval Office for a meeting in May, despite U.S. intelligence agencies pointing a finger at the Kremlin for meddling in the 2016 election. Trump was captured smiling and greeting Kislyak and Lavrov by a Russian photographer, while the White House communications team which included Spicer kept American journalists out. Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese investigative journalist who exposed her island nation's links with the Panama Papers At 2.35pm on Monday, a journalist called Daphne Caruana Galizia filed her latest article alleging endemic corruption in Maltas government. There are crooks everywhere you look now, read its final line. The situation is desperate. Less than half an hour later, Galizia, 53, a prominent local figure thanks to her sensational allegations about the EU nations ruling class, left her family home in the rural north of the island in a Peugeot 108 hire car. The married mother-of-three had driven just a few hundred yards towards the nearby town of Mosta when there was a sudden bang. According to an eye-witness driving in the opposite direction, her car immediately caught fire. Seconds later, a second explosion ripped through the vehicle and sent it careering into a field. It was soon engulfed in flames. Galizia didnt stand a chance. In a moving and at times graphic Facebook post, her son Matthew told yesterday how he found her dead at the scene, shortly after 3 oclock. I am never going to forget running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher, to use it, he wrote. They stared at me. Im sorry, there is nothing we can do, one of them said. I looked down and there were my mothers body parts all around me. I realised they were right. It was hopeless. The blackened tarmac shows where the explosion happened and the car's path can be seen heading from the road into the field Daphne Caruana Galizia, Malta's best-known investigative journalist, was killed on Monday when a powerful bomb blew up her car Forensic experts walk in a field after a powerful bomb blew up a car (foreground) and killed investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in Bidnija, Malta Matthew has dubbed the apparent car bombing a political assassination and he may very well be right. For so deep is the scandal currently surrounding Maltas government that its tricky to see how his mothers killing can be explained any other way. The sad truth is that this Mediterranean holiday island to which thousands of British tourists flock every year looks increasingly like a gangster state: a haven for dirty money run by dodgy politicians, a corrupt judiciary and a partisan police force, where criminals call the shots and critical journalists are not just silenced, but murdered, with apparent impunity. Farcically, the magistrate appointed to lead the investigation into Galizias killing had to be sacked almost immediately after it emerged she was a government loyalist and the subject of critical articles on Galizias blog. Then an officer in the islands supposedly independent police force, Ramon Mifsud, celebrated the murder on Facebook, declaring: Everyone gets what they deserve, cow dung! Feeling happy. (He was suspended pending an inquiry yesterday.) I was discussing the issue of alleged corruption with Daphne Caruana Galizia only a few weeks ago when I was writing an article for the Mail on the Maltese government. She compared Malta to Sicily or Russia, where organised criminals hold great sway and hostile voices can be brutally silenced. At the time, I wondered if she was exaggerating. Now, tragically, she has been proved right, joining the likes of Irelands Veronica Guerin and the Russian Anna Politkovskaya in the annals of courageous female journalists who appear to have been murdered for seeking to speak the truth. Id contacted her to find out more about Maltas Labour Prime Minister, Joseph Muscat, 43, and his growing friendship with political soul-mate, Tony Blair. Britains former Prime Minister and his wife, Cherie, had recently interrupted their summer holiday to pay a visit to Malta lasting less than 24 hours, in which they dined with the politician and his glamorous wife Michelle. An ambulance is parked along the road where a car bomb exploded killing the journalist Police and forensics experts stand behind a road block after a powerful bomb blew up the car Police said she was killed as she was driving near the village of Bidnija in northern Malta In the UK, the trip sparked speculation that Blair was on manoeuvres to thwart Brexit since he and Muscat (who are both avowed Remainers) had just mounted a seemingly co-ordinated PR offensive in which they publicly speculated that Britains departure from the EU might not happen. Daphne Galizia, a Maltese native, took a different view. She told me the real significance of the duos meeting (chronicled via a cheesy photo on Twitter) lay in both mens curious links to the dictatorship of Azerbaijan. Blair, who has devoted much of his post-Number 10 career to enriching himself via consultancy work for corrupt and repressive autocrats, made a lucrative visit to the former Soviet satellite in 2009, shortly after leaving office. There he met the countrys leader Ilham Aliyev, a kleptocrat notorious for human rights abuses whose regime has rigged elections, jailed opponents, closed opposition news outlets, and threatened dissidents with torture and rape. In a major PR coup for the despot, Blair was paid a reported 90,000 to speak there. Later, in 2014, he signed a lucrative deal to lobby on behalf of private oil companies wishing to build a 2,000-mile gas pipeline between Azer-baijan and Southern Europe in a deal vigorously backed by the Aliyev regime, whose members stood to enrich themselves. Muscat boasts equally murky ties to the dictatorship, almost all of which had been single-handedly brought to public attention thanks to dogged and at times very brave reporting by Galizia. Central to this scandal is last years so-called Panama Papers affair, in which 11 million files were leaked from a law firm, Mossack Fonseca, which specialises in helping very rich people hide assets from tax authorities. The documents revealed that two of Muscats allies, then energy minister Konrad Mizzi and chief-of-staff Keith Schembri, each used the firm to set up two mysterious corporate entities in the central American tax haven. Then, in April, Galizia alleged on her internet blog that Muscats wife Michelle was secretly a shareholder in a third company similar to the first two named in the Panama Papers. Galizia claimed that all three firms had been established to launder money corruptly channelled from Azerbaijan. An ambulance and police vehicles are parked along the road where a car bomb exploded killing investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, in the town of Mosta, Malta. The car can be seen in the field and the blackened tarmac where the explosion appeared to have happened is seen leading to the vehicle Graffiti on the wall next to a main road. It reads, 'We will not be silenced. RIP Daphne' According to her blog whose claims, it should be stressed, have always been (and continue to be) vigorously denied Prime Minister Muscat and his allies had received the cash by way of kickbacks from Azerbaijans leader Ilham Aliyev and his associates. They were paid, she alleged, for giving Azerbaijans state energy companies lucrative concessions in Malta, including an 18-year deal (signed in 2014) to supply Maltas gas, and a second agreement to build a power station. These allegations led to the launch of five investigations by Maltese magistrates, all of which are ongoing (one is digging into the financial affairs of Muscat and his wife). They also prompted Muscat to hold a snap election in June, which he won narrowly thanks partly to a videotaped endorsement from Tony Blair. In the months that followed, Galizia was deluged with dozens of libel claims by senior figures in Maltas Labour Party. But she ploughed on. The question now, of course, is if she was murdered, who is to blame? Yesterday Muscat said he was appalled at the barbaric attack on a person and on freedom of expression in this country and vowed to find the perpetrators. But opponents arent holding their breath. Simon Busuttil, a former leader of Maltas opposition, and close friend of Galizia, said her supporters had lost all trust in the ability of authorities to catch her killer. He told me last night: Over a very long time, I have been saying, and Daphne has said, that the rule of law is being systematically undermined in this country. In return, we have been ridiculed, laughed at, criticised and ignored by the government. I am devastated that it has taken a political assassination, for us to be proven right. For this was, tragically, a murder foretold. Roughly 80 pounds of marijuana were seized during a traffic stop on I-90 near Billings recently, according to charging documents. Anthony Toshio Fujimoto, 33, was pulled over for speeding and lane change violations on the interstate on Thursday. The trooper who pulled him over noticed multiple air fresheners in the car and a strong smell from a masking agent. Fujimoto appeared nervous and stayed nervous even after the trooper said hed only get warnings, not citations, charges state. Fujimoto had large bundles of money that the trooper saw while he was getting his insurance card. After the Montana Highway Patrol trooper did a background check and learned Fujimoto was the subject of a federal investigation from 2016 involving 113 pounds of marijuana, he applied for a search warrant. The search yielded approximately 80, 1-pound vacuum-sealed packages of marijuana. Fujimoto was carrying $2,119 in cash, which he said came from casino winnings. In an interview with Division of Criminal Investigation agents, Fujimoto said an acquaintance had promised him $5,000 to drive an unknown item from Seattle to Chicago. DCI investigators seized the cash and a Lexus Fujimoto had been driving as evidence in the case. Fujimoto appeared on Monday in Yellowstone County Justice Court on one charge of criminal possession with intent to distribute, a felony. He was taken into custody on Thursday on a bond of $585. The ex-husband of a 37-year-old who went missing last month has been arrested and charged with her murder, bringing police one step closer to working out what happened to the Army veteran. Dalen Ware was arrested on Friday from his home in Phoenix, Arizona and charged with murder, six weeks after his ex-wife Julia Jacobson went missing. Police determined Jacobson had been murdered based on forensic analysis of her car, according to KFMB. It is believed that Boogie was killed along with his owner. Dalen Ware (left) was arrested on Friday from his home in Phoenix, Arizona and charged with murder, more than a month after his ex-wife Julia Jacobson (right, with her dog Boogie) went missing Julia Jacobson, an Army veteran, went missing over Labor Day weekend. Based on unspecified forensic evidence found in her car, police believe she was killed Jacobson was last seen with her wheaten terrier Boogie in Ontario, California, over Labor Day weekend, and then reported missing on September 2. Her remains still haven't been found - and police have not said what evidence was found in the car that leads them to believe she was killed. They also have not released a possible motive for Ware. Family said they have suspected Ware was involved since she disappeared. The couple have been divorced for about a year, and according to court documents, Ware had a history of domestic violence. Jacobson was an Army veteran who worked for a 7-Eleven corporate after serving two tours of duty in Iraq before going missing Jacobson was last seen with her wheaten terrier Boogie in Ontario, California, over Labor Day weekend, and then reported missing on September 2 Jacobson was an Army veteran who worked for a 7-Eleven corporate after serving two tours of duty in Iraq before going missing. A friend told KFMB that Jacobson texted them on September 2 around 9.30pm to say she was near Palm Springs and planned to travel to Big Bear lake. Her car was later found abandoned with the keys inside not far from her home in San Diego, more than 100 miles south from where she told her friend she would be. After her disappearance, Jacobson's friends made a 'Help Find Julia' Facebook page to share photos and videos of she and Boogie together. On the page friends wrote that the loss is 'beyond words.' 'Even though Julia's physical presence may be gone and taken from us too soon, her capacity for love, inspirational spirit and laughter will live forever in the hearts and minds of all those that knew and loved her,' a statement on the page said. The hero Mandalay Bay security guard who vanished hours before he was due to give interviews with major TV networks will now break his silence on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Jesus Campos, who was shot and wounded in the Las Vegas massacre, disappeared from the public eye last week ahead of several TV interviews, including with Fox News' Sean Hannity. But DeGeneres has now confirmed that the security guard sat down with her for a pre-taped interview that is set to air on Wednesday. 'Tomorrow, the first people to encounter the Las Vegas shooter are here - security guard Jesus Campos and building engineer Stephen Schuck,' DeGeneres tweeted late Tuesday night. Mandalay Bay security guard (center) will break his silence in an interview with Ellen DeGeneres and building engineer Stephen Schuck on Wednesday Mandalay Bay security guard Jesus Campos (pictured for the first time since the Las Vegas massacre) vanished hours before he was scheduled to give a series of TV interviews last week It comes after police spoke out saying Campos was a victim and he was not a missing person after questions were raised about his disappearance. Campos was shot and wounded by Stephen Paddock when he went to investigate the gunshots coming from the 32nd floor suite in the Mandalay Bay hotel. Campos spoke with police after the ordeal but hasn't yet spoken publicly about the October 1 massacre. Questions have been raised about his whereabouts but police told Fox News on Tuesday that he was not considered a missing person. 'He is a victim in this and we don't discuss victims,' Las Vegas Police officer Larry Hadfield said. A spokeswoman for MGM Resorts International, the casino company that owns the Mandalay Bay hotel, said Campos was safe but that he wanted people to respect his privacy. They added that Campos will tell his story when he is ready. Fox News' Sean Hannity tweeted that Campos cancelled his appearance on his show Thursday night. It has since been revealed that Campos went to a medical clinic instead The security guard was shot and wounded by Stephen Paddock when he went to investigate the gunshots coming from the 32nd floor suite in the Mandalay Bay hotel It comes after a representative for Campos' union said he had prepared last Thursday for TV appearances but went to a health clinic instead. Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America leader David Hickey said Tuesday he last heard about Jesus Campos' whereabouts from a union member who messaged that he was with Campos at the clinic. Hickey says the same union member sent messages on Friday saying he was with Campos but not saying where. Campos canceled on Fox News' Sean Hannity as well as CBS, CNN, ABC and NBC. He was pictured for the first time since the massacre on October 10 as he accepted an award from his union. Stephen Paddock shot the security guard before opening fire on concert-goers from his 32nd floor suite in the Mandalay Bay hotel As music fans at the Route 91 Harvest festival fled, Campos alerted police to Paddock's whereabouts ORIGINAL TIMELINE This is the original timeline of events given out by police last Wednesday. 10:05pm: Paddock fires his first shots on the crowd, as seen on CCTV. 10:12pm: First two officers arrive on the 31st floor and announce gunfire is coming from directly above them. 10:14pm: Guard Jesus Campos approaches Paddock's room and is shot, but only injured. 10:15pm: The last shots are fired from the suspect, per bodycam, due to Campos' intervention. 10:17pm: The first two officers arrive on the 32nd floor from the 31st. 10:18pm: Campos tells the cops he was shot and gives them the exact location of the suspect's room. 10:26-10:30pm: With Paddock quiet, eight additional cops arrive and they decide to evacuate the rooms on the floor. 10:55pm: Eight officers arrive in the stairwell next to the suspect's room and find the door tampered with and a camera on a room service cart outside; they decide to hold off. 11:20pm: Paddock's room is breached and police enter the room to find him dead. Advertisement NEW TIMELINE This is the new timeline given out on Monday. 9:59pm: Campos approaches Paddock's room looking for an alarm going off at a door nearby - likely from the stairwell. He is shot at and injured. He immediately notifies hotel security. Stephen Schuck appears to back up this account 10:05pm: First shots fired by suspect. 10:12pm: First two officers arrive on the 31st floor. 10:15pm: The last shots are fired from the suspect for reasons unknown. 10:17pm: The first two officers arrive on the 32nd floor from the 31st. 10:18pm: Campos, who has been stricken for almost 20 minutes, tells police about Paddock's room. 10:26-10:30pm: With Paddock quiet, eight more cops arrive and they decide to evacuate the rooms on the floor. 10:55pm: Eight officers arrive in the stairwell next to the suspect's room and find the door tampered with and a camera on a room service cart outside; they decide to hold off. 11:20pm: Paddock's room is breached and police enter the room to find him dead. Advertisement His disappearance came just hours after MGM Resorts International disputed the official timeline of the shooting. They rejected any suggestion that hotel staff delayed calling 911 for six minutes after Paddock opened fire. The latest chronology raised a series of questions about whether officers were given information quickly enough to possibly have a chance to take out the gunman before he could carry out the bloodshed. But according to resort officials, it was no more than 40 seconds between the time Campos used his walkie talkie to call for help and Paddock opening fire on the crowd from two windows in his suite. Earlier in the investigation, police had said that Paddock shot through his door and wounded Campos after the guard distracted him from firing on the crowd out the windows. Theresa May has promised to back grammar school expansion for the first time since she lost her majority in the General Election Theresa May has vowed for the first time since the election to allow the expansion of grammar schools. The Prime Minister said creating extra places in selective schools would give parents more choice and boost social mobility. Her comments will pave the way for more grammar schools to set up sister campuses or annexes in their neighbourhoods. 'We know that grammar schools are hugely popular with parents because of the academically stretching education they provide,' Mrs May said. 'They make a huge difference for all children that attend them, with the attainment gap from rich and poor pupils reduced to almost zero.' She added at a reception for the Friends of Grammar Schools campaign group in Westminster last night: 'The Government will continue to support the expansion of good and outstanding selective schools, where additional school places are needed.' The creation of entirely new grammar schools was banned by Labour in 1998. Before the general election in June, Mrs May wanted to change the law to allow a raft of new grammars to be built in the poorest areas. The plan was shelved when she lost her majority. However allowing existing schools to create annexes as long as they are in the same area is still legal as it counts as a simple 'expansion'. Mrs May added: 'We know too that many grammar schools play an important role in raising the achievement of children in other schools. 'There are now more good or outstanding schools than ever before in our country. But we want to ensure that every child has a good school place. 'With 99 per cent of selective schools rated as good or outstanding by Ofsted, grammar schools are an important part of that offer to parents.' Mrs May's comments were met with delight by supporters of grammar schools last night. Andrew Lewer, MP for Northampton South, said: 'We've heard the Prime Minister make some very positive statements about grammar schools, which I welcome, because I do think their expansion and the role they have to play can be very positive in the future.' The controversial decision to expand Weald of Kent grammar school in Tonbridge (pictured) was made in 2015. It was effectively the first 'new' grammar school to be approved in 50 years The comments come after the Weald of Kent grammar school in Tonbridge was given permission in 2015 to open an annexe school in Sevenoaks. The first 'new' grammar school to be approved in 50 years was met with fanfare by parents, but Left-wing campaigners said it would damage local comprehensive schools. Grammars have fallen out of favour with many on the Left over claims that they are full of middle-class children whose parents pay to tutor them for entrance exams. However many now have admissions policies which favour those from disadvantaged backgrounds such as quotas or lower pass marks for such pupils. The Government says that once disadvantaged pupils have gained access to a grammar, they soon catch up with their peers. Schools minister Nick Gibb (pictured) addressed grammar school headteachers last night There are currently only 163 grammar schools in England but many get some of the country's best exam results. Nick Gibb, the schools minister, told grammar school headteachers at the event last night: 'We are in a different position to this time last year, but your continued engagement is much appreciated. 'The Prime Minister has made it clear that she wants this country to be a great meritocracy. 'The selective sector has an important role to play, and for those students from disadvantaged backgrounds who already attend grammar schools, there is no doubt of the benefit for those children. 'The attainment gap between disadvantaged students and their classmates in selective schools is 1.7 per cent compared to around 8 per cent in all schools.' He urged the schools to implement more proactive measures to admit poorer pupils so that more could benefit from this success. David Davis (pictured at yesterday's Cabinet meeting) says Brussels is stalling on Brexit talks to chisel more money out of the UK, Brussels is stalling on Brexit talks in a cynical bid to chisel more money out of the UK, David Davis warned yesterday. The Brexit Secretary told MPs that a deal was close on securing the rights of 3.2million EU citizens in the UK and 1.2million Britons living in Europe. But he said that Brussels was refusing to discuss trade relations in an attempt to secure a divorce payment of up to 90billion. He said: The simple truth is that we are in a negotiation and they are using time pressure to see whether they can get more money out of us that is what is going on, as is obvious to anybody. That will take some time, but I am sure we will get there in time to get a decent outcome for everybody. Downing Street yesterday confirmed it would not set out the total it was willing to pay until talks with the EU on trade had concluded. Mr Davis, who has held five rounds of talks with EU counterpart Michel Barnier, said that the two sides were reaching the limits of what we can achieve without considering our future relationship. The growing acrimony comes ahead of a crunch summit in Brussels tomorrow. But Mr Barnier denied he was stringing out talks, saying the claim was a bit odd from a government that had held a snap election after triggering Article 50. He said: We are ready and willing to even speed up the negotiation. We dont have any intention of holding up any process whatsoever. The Brexit Secretary told MPs that a deal was close on securing the rights of 3.2million EU citizens in the UK and 1.2million Britons living in Europe Last month Theresa May offered to hand over 20billion but the EU is holding out for as much as 100billion euros (90billion). A key ally of Angela Merkel appeared to confirm money was the main sticking point. Michael Fuchs, deputy chairman of the German Chancellors political group, said Mrs Mays offer was not enough. And he blamed the Foreign Secretary for blocking a more generous offer. Mr Fuchs said: I know there are internal problems whatever she is offering, Boris Johnson is saying its too much. I dont know what his influence is it seems to be pretty strong because otherwise she would come up with other proposals I guess and the problem is she has internal trouble in the Tories. Mr Johnson had previously suggested those demanding Britain pays a big divorce bill could go whistle. In the Commons yesterday he said it was time for the EU to get serious. Downing Street said Mrs May shared Mr Daviss view that Brussels was stringing out talks to extract more money. Sources said the Prime Minister would not make a new offer to EU leaders over dinner in Brussels tomorrow night. Boris Johnson said in the Commons yesterday that it was time for the EU to get serious over Brexit EU officials confirmed Britains refusal to commit to paying off a share of the blocs liabilities was the most difficult issue preventing progress. Finnish deputy minister Samuli Virtanen said it was difficult to understand what Britain wanted from negotiations, while Danish foreign minister Anders Samuelsen said EU leaders were waiting for more precise definitions from the UK. But Belgian deputy prime minister Didier Reynders acknowledged that the EUs hard-line approach driven by Mrs Merkel and French president Emmanuel Macron had posed difficulties. Meanwhile, a letter signed by 18 Tory MPs accused Jeremy Corbyn of betraying the national interest over Brexit. Labour has pledged to vote down any deal that does not maintain the same benefits for the UK as EU membership. The EUs financial stability could be threatened if Britain leaves the EU without a deal, the Bank of England Governor said yesterday. He told the Treasury select committee that the EU would be short of financial services because it would lose access to the City of London, and EU-based banks had done less than their UK counterparts to prepare for Britain leaving with no deal. Mr Carney previously criticised for his negative attitude to Brexit also admitted the potential trade deals could lead to a jump forward. Foreign nurses will be allowed to sit easier English language tests because failure rates are so high. The existing test has been blamed for a sharp drop in recruitment, which has led to concerns about a major nursing shortfall across the NHS. A hospital in Kent said last month that more than 90 per cent of Filipino nurses had failed the existing test, which require candidates to understand complex articles. And in the nine months after the test was extended to EU nurses recruitment fell by 96 per cent. Overseas medical staff will be able to take a less academic English test after the current one was blamed for a drop in recruitment Under new rules issued by the nursing watchdog, overseas health staff will be allowed to take a less academic exam which is simpler to pass. The move, which will come into force next month, applies to nurses from both within the EU and from the rest of the world. The announcement follows warnings that the current exams are so strict they have led to a huge drop in the number of foreign nurses coming to the UK. The NHS has become increasingly reliant on overseas nurses in recent years, after the number of nurse training posts in the UK was slashed. Figures last week showed the number of nurses in the NHS has fallen by 1,000 in 12 months, the first drop in four years. Experts blamed the decline on a sudden shortfall in overseas nurses, brought about by the difficult language tests. Many hospitals have undertaken big recruitment drives in Spain, Portugal, Italy and the Philippines, hiring teams of up to 200 foreign nurses at a time. But before nurses can join the official register which allows them to work in the UK they must score seven out of nine in a four-part exam. This consists of speaking, listening, reading and writing components. Nurses are required to understand and explain complicated scientific articles as part of the tests. The exams are so difficult that some Australian nurses have failed them despite English being their mother tongue. Current tests require nurses to sit speaking, listening, reading and writing components and they are required to explain complicated scientific articles Todays announcement by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) follows a stocktake of the system. The regulator was lobbied by hospital bosses and recruitment firms, who described the current tests as overly tough and an own goal. From November 1, nurses from the EU or elsewhere in the world will be allowed to take the Occupational English Test, rather than the academic version of the International English Language Test System (IELTS). The Occupational English Test is said to be easier for nurses to pass because it tests their knowledge of medical terms, with which they will be very familiar. By contrast, the current IELTS exam requires them to have a much broader understanding of complex scientific terms. The new rules will also mean that nurses from English-speaking countries, including Canada and Australia, will no longer be required to sit the exams. Instead, they will be allowed to prove they have worked for at least a year in an English-speaking country and previously passed an English language test. The Royal College of Nursing said it would firmly oppose any relaxation in standards just to plug workforce gaps. A spokesman for the NMC insisted the tests were not being made easier nor watered down in any way. The Royal College of Nursing has said it firmly opposes any relaxation in standards designed to plug workforce gaps Jackie Smith, its chief executive, said: Nurses and midwives trained outside the UK make up around 15 per cent of our register. They are vital to the delivery of health and care services across the UK. By accepting alternative forms of evidence we are increasing the options available for nurses and midwives to demonstrate they have the necessary command of English to practise safely and effectively, without compromising patient safety. The existing tests were brought in for EU nurses in January 2016. Before that they did not have to sit any exams. This was due to European Commission rules which stated that such tests would impede freedom of movement of EU workers. The NMC argued that the lack of tests was putting patients at risk because nurses were being allowed on wards with inadequate English. But in June, the NMCs figures showed the number of EU nurses registering had fallen from 1,306 in July 2016 to only 46 in April this year. The tests have been in place for nurses from outside of the EU for the last 11 years, but managers claim they have become progressively tougher in the last few years. Last month the Medway Maritime Hospital in Kent revealed that 90 per cent of a group of 200 Filipino nurses had failed the exams despite their English being very good. The intake of student nurses fell by 20 per cent in three years, from 20,829 in 2009/10 to 17,219 in 2012/13, but the Government has reversed the trend and there are now just under 20,000 places. A spokesman for the Royal College of Nursing said: The NHS is struggling to recruit overseas nurses but we would firmly oppose any change just to plug workforce gaps. It must be robust and command the confidence of the public. It appears many Apple fans are buying the older iPhone 7 models instead of the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus. Apple's iPhone 7 models are outselling the recently launched phones head of the early November debut of the premium iPhone X, This is according to broker KeyBanc Capital Markets, who says a 'lack of significant enhancements' in the new models' may be to blame. Traditionally, new editions of the iPhone have sold quickly as fans queue for the latest upgrade. The surveys would add to signs that the iPhone 8 is not proving as popular as its predecessors. Scroll down for video Apple's older iPhone 7 models (pictured with Apple AirPods) are outselling the recently launched iPhone 8 ahead of the early November debut of the premium iPhone X, broker KeyBanc Capital Markets said, citing carrier store surveys iPHONE 8 SALES Traditionally, new editions of the iPhone have sold quickly as fans queue for the latest upgrade and the surveys would add to signs that the iPhone 8 is not proving as popular as its predecessors. Apple last month introduced the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, which resemble the iPhone 7 line but have a glass back for wireless charging. 'Many respondents indicated that a meaningful portion of customers are buying iPhone 7 in lieu of the new iPhone 8, given the lack of significant enhancements in the new phone,' KeyBanc analyst John Vinh wrote in a client note. While iPhone 8 starts from $699 (699), iPhone 7 is retailing from $549 (549) after a price cut. Advertisement Apple last month introduced the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, which resemble the iPhone 7 line but have a glass back for wireless charging. 'Many respondents indicated that a meaningful portion of customers are buying iPhone 7 in lieu of the new iPhone 8, given the lack of significant enhancements in the new phone,' KeyBanc analyst John Vinh wrote in a client note. While iPhone 8 starts from $699 (699), iPhone 7 is retailing from $549 (549) after a price cut. 'Feedback from stores indicate customers are waiting to purchase the iPhone X or to compare the iPhone X before buying the iPhone 8,' wrote Mr Vinh, who is rated four out of five stars by Thomson Reuters StarMine for his recommendation accuracy on the Apple stock. Apple's much-anticipated iPhone X, a glass and stainless steel device with an edge-to-edge display, will start shipping from 3 November. The 10th-anniversary iPhone is priced from $999 (999) - Apple's most expensive mobile till date. Another reason for the slow uptick of the iPhone 8 could be the modest promotion by US carriers, Mr Vinh said. 'While carriers continue to offer promotions for the new iPhone 8, they have been much more modest compared to the iPhone 7 launch last year,' he wrote. Many respondents indicated that a meaningful portion of customers are buying iPhone 7 in lieu of the new iPhone 8 (pictured) , according to experts KeyBanc did surveys in the United States and United Kingdom. It has not been the only problem Apple has been struggling with since the release of the new device. There were reports of the iPhone 8 popping open earlier this month due to a swollen battery. The report came from China - the world's biggest smartphone market where the U.S. firm is seeking to revive faltering sales. The incident comes as Apple investigates similar cases reported in Taiwan and Japan of batteries in its latest iPhone 8 Plus becoming bloated, causing the device's casing to open. On its website on Thursday, China's state-backed ThePaper.cn cited an iPhone buyer surnamed Liu as saying his newly purchased iPhone 8 Plus arrived cracked open on 5 October. There was no sign of scorching or an explosion. Apple was not immediately available for comment. With golden leaves crunching underfoot and the rustle of birds and animals searching the undergrowth for food to add to winter stores, this is a rewarding time of year to be out in the British countryside. But, as many people report bumper crops of acorns on this years oak trees, the pressing question for nature-lovers is this: will 2017 be a mast year? The word mast is used for the fruit of oak, beech, chestnut and other woodland trees. And for reasons scientists still dont fully understand, our oaks do not produce uniform numbers of nuts each year. Sometimes there are next to none, in others only meagre crops. But at irregular intervals about every five to ten years, almost all oaks across the country join in a co-ordinated acorn boom. In a mast year, far more acorns fall than wildlife can possibly consume. This gives the trees a better chance of creating oak saplings the following spring. Its Mother Natures way of rigging the odds. Britain experiences a period every five to ten years where vast quantities of acorns are produced We already know that in the Appalachian mountains of the United States, oaks are enjoying what looks like an epic mast year. But oak species vary around the world, as, of course, does the climate. It is too early to say for certain that Britain can look forward to a similar rich harvest, though the signs are good. The last British mast was in 2013, so we may well be due for one. Dr Kate Lewthwaite, at the Woodland Trust, advises caution though, as its collectors data is not yet complete: Many of them prefer using pen and paper and dont like to send in their figures by email. Her team always likes to hear from the public, so this is a marvellous excuse for families to go out and collect valuable data. To find oaks, dont just look for the classic lone tree standing in a field. Oaks are common in hedgerows too, and in woodland, where, because they live much longer than all other trees (except the yew), they dominate. Oaks can live for a millennium. According to an old saying, they take 300 years to grow, 300 years to stand still and 300 years to die. Their peak acorn-producing years are between the ages of about 40 and 150. Its a long retirement. This longevity affects their shape. Oaks can have a massive girth at the base, spreading out like an elephants foot to take all the extra weight of centuries. They are also easy to spot because of their distinctive leaves and, of course, their acorns. Defining what constitutes an exceptional crop is not an exact science. Its all down to memory, familiarity and common sense. The Woodland Trust asks volunteers to make an assessment by eye and produce a numerical grade: 1= no fruit, 2= meagre, 3= moderate, 4= good crop, 5= exceptional crop. Dr Lewthwaite says: The differences can be quite subtle. Most years score between 2 and 3. In 2013 the scores got close to 4. Though no one is sure how the trees work together, scientists generally agree that the most likely cause of mast years is predator satiation. Acorns and beechnuts are vital food sources for animals and birds including mice, deer, jays, wild boar and squirrels. It is possible the trees are, in effect, holding back food from these ravenous hordes, keeping their populations low before deluging them with more nuts than they can possibly eat, so as to ensure more acorns survive to become saplings. After a mast year, there is often a population explosion of quick-breeding animals such as mice After a mast year, there is often a population explosion of quick-breeding animals such as mice. Just yesterday there were reports that this years bountiful supply of acorns could increase the incidence of tick-spread Lyme disease. Mice harbour this, and the more mice that survive the winter, the more ticks they infect in the spring and those ticks can go on to bite humans. Up to 3,000 people a year are now infected with the disease. Some animals dont just eat the trees nuts but help them to spread and propagate. The squirrel (greys in particular) bustles around the forest floor at this time of year, scoffing as many acorns as it can and storing what it doesnt immediately need in a collection of larders. Squirrels have an extraordinary memory for where they stored acorns, but inevitably some will be left or not needed, and eventually take root. An even more prolific acorn-gatherer is the jay. This colourful member of the crow family stores about three acorns (sometimes more) in its gullet and one in its beak, then hides them under leaves, in cracks in tree bark and in any other handy cubbyhole. An adult jay can collect up to 5,000 acorns in a season and despite its formidable retrieval instincts, many of those will grow into oak trees. Not all animals are so helpful. Wild boar roamed Britains woods until the last one was killed in the 17th century. Now escapees from farms have made a return to some southern woods and are guzzling acorns and beechnuts. Since Saxon times there has been a tradition of pannage, letting pigs loose in the forest so they can feast on acorns and beechnuts. This still happens each year in the New Forest in Hampshire. A happy side-effect of the tradition is it prevents the New Forest ponies poisoning themselves by eating too many acorns. The pigs are impervious to the acorns toxicity. Trees expend a great amount of energy producing nuts for a mast year. They couldnt do this every year without risking disease or stunting their growth. Experts say you can tell which years were mast years by examining the trunk of a felled tree to see where the rings are closest together a sign all the trees energy went into its fruit that year. It is a puzzle but Dr Lewthwaite says: I like mysteries in nature, and trees have had millions of years to evolve. Im sure they know what theyre doing It wouldnt be wise for trees to over-supply acorn feeders continually. A voracious deer herd, for example, can strip a forest bare, not just gorging on nuts but eating bark, which can kill the tree. So the trees must co-operate, withholding nuts for years before simultaneously coming into fruit. So how do trees of the same species growing hundreds of miles apart come to have the same mast years? It must, scientists believe, be related to temperature or rainfall in the spring. The right combination of warmth, wind and moisture should produce the perfect conditions for the beech or oak trees flowers to bloom and their pollen to spread (although a late frost may ruin it all). Yet a string of what appear to be identical springs can produce just one that is magically followed by an unexpected mast autumn. It is a puzzle but Dr Lewthwaite says: I like mysteries in nature, and trees have had millions of years to evolve. Im sure they know what theyre doing. In the hope of making drone deliveries even more accurate, Project Wing has started making deliveries directly to people's houses in southeastern Australia. The firm announced that it will deliver food from Mexican food chain, Guzman y Gomez, and medicines from Chemist Warehouse pharmacies to customers in rural areas on the border of the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales. Project Wing, which is run by Google parent Alphabet's innovation lab, X, hopes the trials will help to fine-tune how its drones move goods from where they're located to where they're needed. Scroll down for video In the hope of making drone deliveries even more accurate, Alphabet's Project Wing has started making deliveries directly to people's houses in southeastern Australia PROJECT WING'S DRONES Project Wing's aircraft has a wingspan of approximately 1.5m (4.9ft) and have four electrically-driven propellers. The total weight, including the package to be delivered, is approximately 6kg. The aircraft itself accounts for the bulk of that at 5kg. The hybrid 'tail sitter' design has wings for fast forward flight, and rotors for hovering for delivery and vertical take-off and landing. Dual mode operation gives the self-flying vehicle some of the benefits of both planes and helicopters. It can take off or land without a runway, and can hold its position hovering in one spot to gently drop packages. Packages are stored in the drone's 'belly' then dropped on a string before being gently lowered to the ground. At the end of the tether, there's a little bundle of electronics the team call the 'egg,' which detects that the package has hit the ground, detaches from the delivery, and is pulled back up into the body of the vehicle. Advertisement Project Wing first started testing burrito-deliveries in Virginia last year, and has now moved its testing site to southeastern Australia. In a blog announcing the update, James Ryan Burgess, co-lead of Project Wing, said: 'Last year at Virginia Tech, our first deliveries with members of the public were in an open field, not to a specific address or location. 'Now, with each delivery, we encounter a new yard space with its own layout of trees, sheds, fences, and power lines. 'That means that in addition to learning what people want delivered, we also have to learn how to best deliver items to people.' The drones can now deliver products almost anywhere, whether it's backyards, public parks, or farmlands. But Project Wing says that the main issue is reliably identifying safe and convenient delivery locations. Mr Burgess said: 'We have to incorporate customer preferences e.g. many of our testers would like packages delivered to backyards so they're not visible from the road, or near kitchens so food items can be unpacked quickly. 'And we have to be ready to accommodate changing conditions at the delivery location. Project Wing's drones can now deliver products almost anywhere, whether it's backyards, public parks, or farmlands 'While our unmanned traffic management (UTM) platform lets us pre-plan a flight route, the sensors on our aircraft are responsible for identifying obstacles that might appear during a flight or delivery, like a car parked in an unexpected spot, or outdoor furniture that's been moved. 'The more test deliveries we do, exposing the sensors on our aircraft to new delivery locations, the smarter our aircraft's algorithms will one day become at picking a safe spot for deliveries.' By partnering with Guzman y Gomez and Chemist Warehouse, Project Wing hopes that it will learn the easiest way to channel orders and deliver goods. By partnering with Guzman y Gomez (pictured) and Chemist Warehouse, Project Wing hopes that it will learn the easiest way to channel orders and deliver goods James Ryan Burgess, co-lead of Project Wing, said: 'In the case of Guzman y Gomez, who is our first delivery partner for this trial, we'll need to make sure our technology fits in smoothly into their kitchen operations' Mr Burgess said: 'In the case of Guzman y Gomez, who is our first delivery partner for this trial, we'll need to make sure our technology fits in smoothly into their kitchen operations, as their staff have to juggle many orders at once to ensure that every customer is served fresh, hot food in a timely fashion. 'We want to learn how much notice to give them for a drone's arrival so that they can cook, pack, and load it in one well-timed workflow.' The trial will be completed in southeastern Australia over the next few months, and it is unclear if Project Wing plans to trial the system elsewhere in the future. Google and Apple have promised to update the software that caused severe flaws in Wi-Fi home technology networks, leading to one of the biggest security scares of the year. Computer security experts were on high alert yesterday after it emerged encryption algorithms designed to protect people's privacy online have been cracked. The incident, described as 'unprecedented', led technology companies to rapidly issue updates - although it seems many could have known about it for weeks. Scroll down for video Google and Apple have promised to update the software that caused severe flaws in Wi-Fi home technology networks (stock image) SOFTWARE UPDATES The incident led technology companies to rapidly issue updates - although it seems many could have known about it for weeks. Apple said it was currently testing updates to iOS and MacOS which would be released in a few weeks time. Microsoft said it had already fixed the problem for users on Windows 7,8 and 10, writes the Telegraph. Google said it would release a fix on 6 November. However, Android users could be waiting months before they are safe as manufacturers have to release their own updates. The updates should limit the security risk but internet users have still been urged to patch their routers. BT, Sky and Virgin have not issued guidance on how to update routers. Advertisement News of the vulnerability, known as Krack, or Key Reinstallation Attacks, emerged after experts from the Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, Belgium, announced they would be releasing their findings to the public. They found cyber criminals within physical range of any WPA2 protected wireless router - which includes almost all home users - can spy on your every move online. It could also provide them easy access to data from smart devices, including baby monitors and internet connected security cameras. Apple said it was currently testing updates to iOS and MacOS which would be released in a few weeks time. Microsoft said it had already fixed the problem for users on Windows 7,8 and 10, writes the Telegraph. Google said it would release a fix on 6 November. However, Android users could be waiting months before they are safe as manufacturers have to release their own updates. The updates should limit the security risk but internet users have still been urged to patch their routers. BT, Sky and Virgin have not issued guidance on how to update routers. Details of the exploit were published to the researchers' website shortly before this article was published. Krack uses a flaw in the Wi-fi Protected Access II protocol (WPA2), developed 13 years ago, which renders it useless. Depending on the network configuration, it is also possible hackers could inject and manipulate data. Cyber criminals within physical range of any WPA2 protected wireless router can spy on our every move online. It could also provide them easy access to data from our smart devices, including baby monitors and internet connected security cameras (stock image) WHAT CAN USERS DO? Until ISPs and router manufacturers issue firmware update, users may continue to be vulnerable to the exploit. However, there are some ways people can protect their data. Traffic between HTTPS servers should remain secure, so it is best to check the URL for any page you are going to input sensitive data into. Unprotected sites begin with HTTP:// rather than HTTPS:// Anyone with smart devices should visit the manufacturer's website to check for the latest security updates. Be aware that any data sent in plain text across your home network, for example some email clients use plain text, may be visible. Advertisement For example, an attacker might be able to inject ransomware or other malware into websites. In a written statement, the researchers said: 'We discovered serious weaknesses in WPA2, a protocol that secures all modern protected WiFi networks. 'An attacker within range of a victim can exploit these weaknesses using key reinstallation attacks. 'Attackers can use this novel attack technique to read information that was previously assumed to be safely encrypted. 'This can be abused to steal sensitive information such as credit card numbers, passwords, chat messages, emails, photos, and so on.' Krack is believed to target a process called a handshake, an automated negotiation that happens between devices on a network. Handshaking establishes rules for communication between a 'foreign' device and the router, whether that's a printer, server or smartphone. By agreeing to the rules established during the handshake, the foreign device is then able to establish a connection with the home network. WPA2 uses a four-way handshake to establish a key for encrypting traffic, to protect it from prying eyes. During the third stage, researchers discovered the key can be resent multiple times. Key generation, while seemingly random, is actually governed by a mathematical formula. Through this third stage, they are believed to have been able to crack the underlying formal used to generate keys through trial and error. The full findings of the KU Leuven team will be presented on November 1 at the ACM Conference on Computer and Communications Security in Dallas. Advertisement The eerie red sun that appeared across the UK yesterday could return tomorrow. The ghostly phenomenon cast Britain in an eerie Martian gloom as Saharan dust was picked up by Hurricane Ophelia and brought to the UK, shrouding the sun and turning skies red. Remnants of North African sand are still lingering in places today. A Met Office meteorologist now claims the red sun will return as dust blows across the continent for the second time from wildfires burning in Spain and Portugal. Scroll down for video The strange red sun (pictured, from Bristol) could come back again tomorrow, a Met Office meteorologist has said as dust blows across the continent for the second timel WHY WILL IT RETURN? Met Office meteorologists have said there is a chance that wildfires are still burning in Iberia. If the wind is blowing in the right direction, there is a possibility we may see the red sun again tomorrow. Visible light can be split up into a spectrum of colours, ranging from blue to red. Clean air scatters blue light more than red wavelengths, explaining why the midday sky normally appears blue. But when there is dust in the air the blue light is scattered, making the sky appear red. Advertisement The reason we see a red sun is because visible light can be split up into a spectrum of colours, ranging from blue to red. Clean air scatters blue light more than red wavelengths, explaining why the midday sky normally appears blue. But when there is dust in the air the blue light is scattered, making the sky appear red. 'Given the flow of air it could come back tomorrow', a Met Office meteorologist Emma Sharples told MailOnline. 'There are still particles in the atmosphere so it depends on how much the fires in Spain and Portugal are alight', she said. Ms Sharples said she had seen people posting on social media that they could still see a red tinge to the sun today. 'We don't know how many of those particles are in the atmosphere - today we were expecting for there to be not be much of an effect but there still is', she said. 'If we get anything tomorrow it probably won't be as strong as yesterday', she said. Ms Sharples said particles are at 10000 feet so they are not having any effect on air quality. Tomorrow is the last day it will be possible to see the strange phenomenon. 'As we go into Thursday and Friday we have a more Atlantic dominated set of weather conditions which will bring in new air', she said. Yesterday, BBC weather presenter Simon King confirmed the red tinge was due to the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia bring tropical air and dust from the Sahara. He added that debris from Portugal and Spain's forest fires were also playing a role in the reddish hue. WESTMINSTER: The sky over central London is turned orange as the remains of Hurricane Ophelia whips up dust from the Sahara desert LONDON: The Shard is clouded by an orange haze and the sun burns bright in the skies over central London today LONDON: The capital's skyline is basked in an orange glow in a stark contrast to the usual grey weather Londoners are met with at this time of year LONDON: Another image of the reddish hue caused by Ophelia over the capital's high-rise skyline earlier today BATTERSEA: The famous power station in south-west London under the reddish tint from Opheilia ISLE OF WIGHT: The sun comes through a thick haze and brings in a bad smell over Brading Downs on the Isle of Wight today BRANDS HATCH: The sky at Brands Hatch racecourse, near Fawkham, Kent, where there was an event today LONDON: Another image from the capital shows Blackfriars Road near St. George's Circus, to the south of the City A number of people shared photos and video online of the phenomenon. Sharon Derrick shared a video of the sun over Bristol and said: 'Bristol looks like the film The Red Planet... the weather is bizarre.' Simon Gallowway, of Bristol, tweeted: 'Weird Sun over Bristol right now. Looking like something from Star Wars.' And Emma Cope said: 'Urmm I don't want to alarm anyone but the sun is pink! Is this the end of the world?' WHAT IS THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE RED SUN AND HURRICANES? While it may seem eerie, the Met Office told MailOnline that the sight of a red sun before a storm is normal. Helen Chivers, a meteorologist at the Met Office explained that the distinctive colour is a result of the fact that Ophelia originated as a hurricane in the Azores, before it moved northwards over the Sahara. She said: 'The red sun and golden sky are partly due to Storm Ophelia. 'You'll have noticed how warm it's been over the last few days, and this is because Ophelia has pulled warm air up from Africa. 'The southerly winds that come with Ophelia have come up from Africa, picking up dust particles on their travels. This graphic map shows how dust is being whipped up from the Sahara and blown across southern Europe and over Britain SOUTH LANARKSHIRE: Hazy cloud around a very watery sun in South Lanarkshire today TAUNTON, SOMERSET: A red sun spotted in the sky over Taunton, which was caused by Storm Ophelia 'The winds have also picked up smoke from wildfires over southern Portugal. 'All of that has come over the UK, and what we're seeing is the effect of the sunlight being scattered by the dust and smoke particles from Sahara wildfires.' This week, the UK has had unseasonably warm weather, with temperatures across the country reaching over 20 degrees. This is eight degrees higher than the average temperature of 12 degrees in the UK in October. The forest fires Ms Chivers is referring to have swept across central Portugal and west central Spain, where they have caused massive devastation, killing at least nine people, and filling the air with ash and smoke. Ms Chivers explained that while today's skies may seem eerie, the phenomenon is very similar to that of orange skies we often see around sunset. She added: 'It's a bit like how you see red sunsets. 'Sun's light comes towards us and hits the dust particles. KIRKBY STEPHEN, CUMBRIA: An eerie sight across the UK today as an unusual red sun turned the sky orange LYMINGTON, HAMPSHIRE: Dust from the Sahara has been thrown into the air causing a red sun over parts of Britain today 'The blue part of light from the sun is then scattered, and all we're seeing is the red part of the spectrum.' Visible light can be split up into a spectrum of colours, ranging from blue to red. Clean air scatters blue light more than red wavelengths, explaining why the midday sky normally appears blue. But when there is dust in the air as there is today the blue light is scattered, making the sky appear red. Thankfully, the unsettling skies won't last long, according to Ms Chivers. She said: 'It won't last long in any one place. 'It's combined with the weather front, which runs from west to east in the UK. 'The Met Office is based in Devon, and we saw the red sun and golden skies at about 10 this morning. 'The weather system of dust and smoke will probably only last a few hours.' Advertisement BIRMINGHAM: This caused the sun to appear red and created an atmospheric orange glow across parts of Britain today FROM THE AIR: This picture was taken by a passenger coming into land at Heathrow Airport this evening, having travelled from Warsaw LONDON: A London Underground train passes through the west of the capital under the red sky BOURNEMOUTH: Storm Ophelia has caused air and dust to be pulled up from southern Europe and Africa WOLVERHAMPTON: The sun shines bright over the West Midlands, after dust from Sahara caused to have an orange glow Ophelia was also blamed for bringing a strange smell to British shores today. People in Cornwall reported smelling burning candles or incense, with the whiff seemingly particularly strong in coastal areas. There were reports along the coast from Portreath to Hayle and a woman in Penzance said she could smell incense as the strong winds started to whip up around the town. SUSSEX: This afternoon sky glimmers over an estate in Stone Cross,Pevensey, East Sussex WESTMINSTER: The bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square stands out against the musky orange sky KENT: Dust from the Sahara has been thrown into the air causing a red sun. Andy Dell, of Minster on Sea, Kent, took this well-time picture of a crane appearing to hold the sun ISLE OF WIGHT: Pictured is the sun coming through a thick haze and bad smell over Brading Downs on the Isle of Wight Lisa Anne Marie Nicholls, from Wadebridge, said: 'There's loads of people saying there is a burning smell outside. Reports as far as Devon to the Lizard. Weird' Tricia Harper gave the following explanation: 'This is tropical air that has a different odour than we're used. 'Trees in the tropics produce oxygen just like our trees in the UK. The smell is typical of tropical air and is a result of high humidity and the oxygen produced by trees based in the tropics. 'If you have ever been to the tropics you will have noticed this smell constantly in the air. I love it.' LONDON: A tourist looks up at the sky from the top deck of a London sightseeing bus in Westminster, as the sun's glow turns the sky orange ABERDOVEY: A red sun in the sky above Aberdovey (Aberdyfi) on the Welsh Coast as the tail of Hurricane Ophelia approaches CUMBRIA: An eerie sight across the UK today as an unusual red sun turned the sky orange thanks to ex hurricane Ophelia drawing Saharan dust and smoke from wildfires from Iberia WILTSHIRE: The Hurricane Ophelia brought a red sun at noon over the bell tower spire, Malmesbury. The storm is believed to have picked up dust from the Sahara and debris from forest fires in Spain and Portugal as it travelled towards the UK BRISTOL: A view of the blood red sun in Bristol, believed to be caused by sand in the atmosphere being carried by the tail end of Hurricane Ophelia The jury trial for a Casper resident charged with sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl began Monday. Miguel Martinez faces one count of first-degree sexual abuse of a minor and one count of second-degree sexual abuse of a minor. If found guilty, Martinez could face up to 70 years in prison. Martinez's public defender, Tracy Hucke, said at a previous hearing that her client identifies as a woman and uses the name Michelle. The 10-year-old's mother reported to Casper police in March that her daughter said Martinez sexually assaulted her in a bathroom. The girl told police that Martinez, who is a family friend, invited her into the bathroom, touched her breasts and genitalia before penetrating her. Nurses at the Wyoming Medical Center completed a sexual assault exam and found redness and abrasions on the girl's genitalia. Martinez denied molesting the child to arresting officers and pleaded not guilty to the charges in May at an arraignment in Natrona County District Court. The trial is scheduled to last four days. Hidden in Peru's northern highlands are the grisly remains of an ancient people who suffered from ritual and brutal violence. Researchers made the discovery after digging up 104 remains of Andeans in a mysterious ceremonial complex called Pacopampa. Seven of the individuals - likely to be from the lower castes of society - showed signs of 'severe' trauma caused before their death. Researchers say the discovery could provide a fresh insight into what lay behind the development of violent ceremonial mutilation in ancient Andean civilisation. Researchers made the discovery after digging up 104 remains of Andeans in a mysterious ceremonial complex called Pacopampa. Seven of the individuals (pictured) - likely to be from the lower castes of society - showed signs of 'severe' trauma caused before their death WHY DID THEY HAVE INJURIES? The injuries on the seven individuals were largely on their head and face, suggesting that the trauma was intentional. Researchers are yet to determine the reason for such violence, but they have a number of theories. One is that there may have been too much demand for limited food resources. 'Signs of violence are possible evidence of increasing social tensions caused by this,' the researchers said. The researchers write the violence may be the result of 'rituals associated with food and water productions,' the researchers wrote. 'The controlled practice of violence seems to have an affinity with the cult of predatory animals.' Advertisement The remains, which are of both upper and lower class individuals, date from the Middle to Late Formative Periods, between 1200 and 500 BC, according to a report in Newsweek. 'Pacopampa was home to a complex society founded on ritual activity in a ceremonial center, the researchers from the National University of San Marcos in Peru write in their report in the journal Plos one. 'This is indicated by the presence of ritual violence in a society that built impressively large, ceremonial architecture and developed social stratification without any political control of surplus agricultural goods.' The injuries on the seven individuals were largely on their head and face, suggesting that the trauma was intentional. 'The equal distribution of trauma between the sexes supports the idea that trauma was not caused by warfare but rather by rituals, as males were preferentially selected for warfare,' the researchers write. The injuries were so severe, that scientists suggest they would have caused lifelong health problems. The injuries on the seven individuals were largely on their head and face, suggesting that the trauma was intentional. 'The equal distribution of trauma between t Multiple fractures in the right and left parietal bones in an adult female are shown a-b. Other fractures to the head are shown d-g They also believe they were likely experienced before death, as there were signs of healing. Researchers are yet to determine the reason for such violence, but they have a number of theories. One is that there may have been too much demand for limited food resources. 'Signs of violence are possible evidence of increasing social tensions caused by this,' the researchers said. Pacopampa was home to a complex society founded on ritual activity in a ceremonial center The difficulty with this theory is that the bodies studied were well-fed. The researchers write the violence may be the result of 'rituals associated with food and water productions,' the researchers wrote. 'The controlled practice of violence seems to have an affinity with the cult of predatory animals.' They suggest the elite may have hurt others to embody powerful predators. Researchers are now piecing evidence to reconstruct the long history of ritualistic violence in Peru. It follows a discovery in 2015, in which gruesome death rituals performed 1,200 years ago were uncovered in dozens of tombs in the nearby Cotahuasi Valley. Each tomb was filled with bones of up to 60 mummies, with infants kept in small containers, and others repeatedly ripped to pieces while decomposing. Archaeologists opened up seven of the tombs, recovering 171 broken mummies from the ancient ceremonial site known as Tenahaha. Gruesome death rituals performed 1,200 years ago have been uncovered in dozens of tombs in Peru's Cotahuasi Valley. Pictured is the burial of a young woman found in the middle of one of the tombs. Analysis of her skeletal remains reveal that she suffered dental problems, including the loss of teeth 'When we think of the dead, we bury the relative and that's it,' Justin Jennings, a curator at Toronto's Royal Ontario Museum told DailyMail.com. 'But back then, in the Andes, you continued to interact with those folks. People were moving bodies around all the time.' The mummies in the tombs ranged in age from several days old to the elderly. But over the years rats had eaten away many of the remains, leaving only fragments. In one tomb, researchers discovered 400 isolated human body parts, including teeth, hands and feet. The few mummies that remained intact were bound by rope and placed in a foetal position. The mummies in the tombs found in 2015 ranged in age from several days old to the elderly. But over the years rats had eaten away at many of the remains. This image shows three vessels found by the feet of an individual. Pictured is the partial skull of an individual found in one of the seven opened tombs in 2015. The dead, numbering in the low thousands, towered over the living from in their tombs high on the hills around the valley 'On occasion, there were mummies that were placed as offerings around the outside of the tombs,' said Jennings. 'They were broken apart but then placed back together in an anatomically correct position.' Scientists are still trying to understand why some of the mummies and artefacts were broken up in this way. One theory is that the movement of the mummies may have helped create a sense of equality among the community. Pictured is a dismembered mummy. A tupu, which was an artifact that could have been used to fasten clothing, fell through this mummy's rib cage when it was moved The Roman Empires rise to dominance in Egypt may have been helped by a series of huge volcanic eruptions. That's according to a new study that claims these eruptions reduced rainfall in the country and led to civil unrest. The unrest may have led to the destruction of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, ruled Egypt and North Africa in the final three centuries BC, paving the way for Cleopatra and the Roman Empire. Scroll down for video The Roman Empires rise to dominance in Egypt may have been helped by a series of huge volcanic eruptions. That's according to a new study that claims these eruptions reduced rainfall in the country and led to civil unrest WHY DO VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS REDUCE FLOODING? Volcanic eruptions caused reduced flooding by releasing sulphurous gases into the stratosphere, according to the researchers. These gases react to form aerosols that remain in the atmosphere for up to two years, reflecting incoming solar radiation back to space. The reduction in surface temperatures can lead to reduced evaporation over waterbodies, and so less rainfall. Advertisement Researchers from Yale University examined the climate and societal impacts in Egypt of a sequence of volcanic eruptions spanning the past 2,500 years. The team focused on the Ptolemaic dynasty of ancient Egypt (305-30 BC) the state famed for one of its rulers, Cleopatra. Their analysis involved a vast range of evidence, including annual measurements of Nile summer flood heights from 622-1902 and descriptions of flood quality from ancient writings. The findings revealed how large volcanic eruptions impacted on Nile river flow, reducing the height of the agriculturally-critical summer flood. Their analysis involved a vast range of evidence, including annual measurements of Nile summer flood heights from 622-1902 and descriptions of flood quality from ancient writings (pictured) Dr Joseph Manning, lead author of the study, said: 'Ancient Egyptians depended almost exclusively on Nile summer flooding brought by the summer monsoon in east Africa to grow their crops. 'In years influenced by volcanic eruptions, Nile flooding was generally diminished, leading to social stress that could trigger unrest and have other political and economic consequences.' Volcanic eruptions caused reduced flooding by releasing sulphurous gases into the stratosphere, according to the researchers. The analysis suggests that a series of enormous volcanic eruptions caused reduced flooding of the Nile, leading to social stress that triggered unrest (stock image) The Ptolemaic era is one of ancient Egypt's most well-documented periods, meaning that the dates of major political events are well known. Pictured is an ancient wall relief of Cleopatra III, Cleopatra II and Ptolemy VIII in front of eagle-headed god Horus, Kom Ombo KEY FINDINGS Researchers examined the climate and societal impacts in Egypt of a sequence of volcanic eruptions spanning the past 2,500 years. The team focused on the Ptolemaic dynasty of ancient Egypt (305-30 BC) the state famed for one of its rulers, Cleopatra. Their analysis involved a vast range of evidence, including annual measurements of Nile summer flood heights from 622-1902 and descriptions of flood quality from ancient writings. The findings revealed how large volcanic eruptions impacted on Nile river flow, reducing the height of the agriculturally-critical summer flood. The Ptolemaic era is one of ancient Egypt's most well-documented periods, meaning that the dates of major political events are well known. The researchers were able to show that many of these events coincided with major volcanic eruptions. Advertisement These gases react to form aerosols that remain in the atmosphere for up to two years, reflecting incoming solar radiation back to space. The reduction in surface temperatures can lead to reduced evaporation over waterbodies, and so less rainfall. The Ptolemaic era is one of ancient Egypt's most well-documented periods, meaning that the dates of major political events are well known. The researchers were able to show that many of these events coincided with major volcanic eruptions. Dr Manning said: 'Egypt and the Nile are very sensitive instruments for climate change, and Egypt provides a unique historical laboratory in which to study social vulnerability and response to abrupt volcanic shocks. 'Nile flood suppression from historical eruptions has been little studied, despite well documented Nile failures with severe social impacts coinciding with eruptions in 939, in 1783-1784 in Iceland, and 1912 in Alaska. 'With volcanic eruption dates fixed precisely in time, we can see society in motion around them. Volcanic eruptions caused reduced flooding of the Nile (pictured) by releasing sulphurous gases into the stratosphere, according to the researchers PTOLEMAIC DYNASTY The Ptolemaic dynasty controlled Egypt for almost three centuries (305 30 BCE), eventually falling to the Romans. But while they ruled Egypt, they never became Egyptian. Instead, they isolated themselves in the capital city of Alexandria, a city envisioned by Alexander the Great. The city was Greek both in language and practice. There were no marriages with outsiders; brother married sister or uncle married niece. In the end, even Cleopatra VII remained Macedonian. Except for the first two Ptolemaic pharaohs, Ptolemy I and his son Ptolemy II, most of the family was fairly inept and, in the end, only maintained authority with the assistance of Rome. Advertisement 'This is the first time for ancient history that we can begin to talk about a dynamic understanding of society.' The researchers believe their findings could be applied to what is happening today with climate change. Dr Manning added: 'The study is of particular importance for the current debate about climate change. 'There hasn't been a large eruption affecting the global climate system since Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991. 'We are living in a period where we are fairly quiescent in terms of large volcanic eruptions that are affecting climate. 'A lot of volcanoes erupt each year but they are not affecting the climate system on the scale of some past eruptions. 'Sooner or later we will experience a large volcanic eruption, and perhaps a cluster of them, that will act to exacerbate drought in sensitive parts of the world.' Engraved burial costumes from Viking boat graves that supposedly provided evidence of contact between Nordic tribes and ancient Islam contain 'no Arabic at all', according to an expert who has slammed the initial research. The Viking textile found in 9th and 10th century graves did not include the word 'Allah' as was widely reported, according to a professor of Medieval Islamic art and archaeology. Dr Stephennie Mulder of the University of Texas in Austin claimed the error stems from a 'serious problem of dating', claiming Kufic script did not occur until 500 years after the Vikings. Scroll down for video Burial costumes from Viking boat graves that appeared to provide evidence of contact between Nordic tribes and ancient Islam contain 'no Arabic at all', claims an expert who has slammed the initial research THE CONTROVERSY The viking textile found in 9th and 10th century graves did not include the word 'Allah' as was widely reported, according to a professor of Medieval Islamic art and archaeology. Dr Stephennie Mulder of the University of Texas in Austin claimed the error stems from a 'serious problem of dating', claiming Kufic script did not occur until 500 years after the Vikings. Dr Mulder claimed that it was a style called square Kufic' that is 'common in Iran, C. Asia on architecture after 15th century'. 'Let's assume there are 10th century Central Asian textiles with square Kufic. Even so, it turns out Larsson's drawing doesn't say 'Allah',' she wrote. 'Instead the drawing says 'lllah', which basically makes no sense in Arabic.' Advertisement Dr Mulder says the claims, which were circulated around the world, are founded on 'conjecture' and 'supposition' instead of proof. Kufic characters were commonly found during the Viking Age in mosaics on burial monuments and mausoleums, primarily in Central Asia. The claims she refers to were made by archaeologist Annika Larsson of Uppsala University who made the discovery after working to recreate textile patterns found in Viking woven bands. They claimed that the objects, used as inspiration for a Viking Couture exhibit at Enkoping Museum, contained Kufic characters, rather than traditional Viking patterns as had been assumed. As well as Allah, Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, was also mentioned in the text, they claimed. However, Dr Mulder took to Twitter to criticise their findings, claiming that it was a style called square Kufic' that is 'common in Iran, C. Asia on architecture after 15th century'. 'Let's assume there are 10th century Central Asian textiles with square Kufic. Even so, it turns out Larsson's drawing doesn't say 'Allah',' she wrote. 'Instead the drawing says 'lllah', which basically makes no sense in Arabic.' The viking textile found in 9th and 10th century graves did not include the word 'Allah' as was widely reported, according to a professor of Medieval Islamic art and archaeology Researchers from Uppsala University in Sweden working to recreate textile patterns found in Viking woven bands made the discovery. They found that the objects, being used as the inspiration for a Viking Couture exhibit at Enkoping Museum, contained Kufic characters Similar text was found on the woven bands, which were part of grave costumes uncovered inside both chamber graves, in sites such as Birka in Malardalen, and in boatgraves in the Gamla Uppsala area. Responding to the criticism, Ms Larsson told The Independent that the finds were 'no doubt from the Viking age'. 'They are found in several of the Birka graves and Viking Age boatgraves north of Gamla Uppsala. The geometrical Kufi is also to be found in similar textile ribbons from Spain', she said. 'Even if the characters should be interpreted as 'Illah' it is still Kufic, and as I have understood from the Arabic experts it still refers to 'Allah'.' MailOnline has contacted Ms Larsson for comment. Dr Mulder of the University of Texas in Austin claimed the error stems from a 'serious problem of dating', claiming Kufic script did not occur until 500 years after the Vikings Dr Mulder took to Twitter to criticise their findings, claiming that it was a style called square Kufic' that is 'common in Iran, C. Asia on architecture after 15th century' Kufic (left) is the oldest calligraphic form of the various Arabic scripts, developed around the end of the 7th Century in Kufa, Iraq, from which it takes its name. The geometric example (right) reads baraka Muhammad, or blessed be Muhammad Ms Larsson said when her research was first released: 'It is a staggering thought that the bands, just like the costumes, was made west of the Muslim heartland. 'That we so often maintain that Eastern objects in Viking Age graves could only be the result of plundering and eastward trade doesn't hold up as an explanatory model. 'The inscriptions appear in typical Viking Age clothing that have their counterparts in preserved images of Valkyries. 'Presumably, Viking Age burial customs were influenced by Islam and the idea of an eternal life in Paradise after death.' In her earlier research, Ms Larsson looked at the widespread occurrence of Eastern silk in Scandinavia's Viking Age graves. 'Let's assume there are 10th century Central Asian textiles with square Kufic. Even so, it turns out Larsson's drawing doesn't say 'Allah',' she wrote 'Instead the drawing says 'lllah', which basically makes no sense in Arabic. MailOnline has contacted Ms Larsson for comment VIKING AND ISLAMIC TRADE The Scandinavians are known to have traded glass objects from Egypt and Mesopotamia up to 3,400 years ago. It is also possible that the Vikings fetched glass goods directly from the region, rather than waiting for them to make their way north via trade networks. Ancient texts mention trades taking place between the Vikings and members of the Islamic civilisation, which stretched from the Mediterranean to West Asia. Viking expeditions are said to have extended from Western Europe to Central Asia. It is from here that sources indicate the extent to which the Vikings had contact with the Muslim World during ancient times. Though the Vikings had sacked several cities in Western and Eastern Europe, historians outline that it was in Muslim ruled lands, that the Vikings found 'emporiums beyond their wildest dreams', according to Muslim Heritage. Historians in Baghdad and other regions of the Muslim world gave the Vikings a reputation of being 'merchant warriors whose primary focus was on trades.' However, writers in Al-Andalus in Muslim Spain were of a different opinion, due to frequent attacks reportedly perpetrated by the Vikings in the region. Advertisement In the Valsgarde boat graves, just north of the key early Iron Age site Gamla Uppsala, silk is found in the clothing of those buried far more often than wool and linen. Analyses of materials, weaving techniques and design suggest ancient Persian and Central Asian origins. 'Grave goods such as beautiful clothing, finely sewn in exotic fabrics, hardly reflect the deceased's everyday life, just as little as the formal attire of our era reflects our own daily lives,' Ms Larsson said. 'The rich material of grave goods should rather be seen as tangible expressions of underlying values. Kufic characters were found during the Viking Age in mosaics on burial monuments and mausoleums in Central Asia. Similar text has allegedly been found on grave costumes uncovered inside chamber graves at sites such as Birka as well as in boatgraves in the Gamla Uppsala area 'In the Quran, it is written that the inhabitants of Paradise will wear garments of silk, which along with the text band's inscriptions may explain the widespread occurrence of silk in Viking Age graves. 'The findings are equally prevalent in both men's and women's graves.' This is not the first time that a Viking artefact has claimed to have links to Islam. A ring, made over 1,000 years ago, confirmed contact between the Vikings and the ancient Muslim world. Unearthed in Sweden in 2015, it is said to bear an ancient Arabic inscription that reads 'for Allah' or 'to Allah'. England's native ladybirds have been decimated by a 'cannibal killer' from East Asia, a new study warned. The notorious Harlequin, imported to help European farmers control pests, has been declared the fastest invading species. It arrived in Britain in 2004 - either by being blown over or in fruit and vegetables from Europe- and it has spread at a greater rate than grey squirrels, American mink, ring-necked parakeets and muntjac deer. England's native ladybirds have been decimated by a 'cannibal killer' from East Asia, a new study warned. The notorious Harlequin (pictured), imported to help European farmers control pests, has been declared the fastest invading species HARLEQUIN LADYBIRDS The notorious Harlequin, imported to help European farmers control pests, has been declared the fastest invading species. It arrived in Britain in 2004 either by being blown over or in fruit and vegetables from Europe and it has spread at a greater rate than grey squirrels, American mink, ring-necked parakeets and muntjac deer. Over an 11 year period in which the Harlequin invaded England it accounted for up to 70 per cent of all the ladybirds recorded. It is known to feed on 2-spot ladybirds, and it is feared this predation is an important driver of the changes observed. Advertisement The voracious Harlequin preys on other ladybirds and fears it would colonise the country have proved correct. An Insect Conservation and Diversity study shows a dramatic fall in the numbers of a the 2-spot species, which is native to the UK, on lime trees. Over an 11-year period in which the Harlequin invaded England it accounted for up to 70 per cent of all the ladybirds recorded. It is known to feed on 2-spot ladybirds, and it is feared this predation is an important driver of the changes observed. Co author Dr Peter Brown, of Anglia Ruskin University, said: 'This long term field study shows just how numerous Harlequin ladybirds have become. 'The 2-spot used to be one of our most abundant ladybird species but is now quite tricky to find. 'The study shows clear changes in the ladybird community as a result of the Harlequin's dominance.' Harlequins arrived mainly by spread from mainland Europe, and it is now common throughout England and Wales. Dr Brown and colleagues analysed four sites - two lime tree, one pine tree and a nettle - in East Anglia between 2006 and 2016 following the invasion and found, overall, it represented 41.5 percent of all ladybirds sampled. The proportion of native ladybirds fell from 99.8 percent - 520 of 521 ladybirds at three sites - in 2006 to 30.7 percent or 383 of 1,248 at four sites in 2016. The Harlequin dominated in the lime trees but not in the pine trees or nettles. It was over three times more abundant than the second most common species, the seven spot ladybird. Dr Brown said: 'There are very few published long-term studies of ladybird communities in Europe, and even fewer that have encompassed the early invasion phase of a non-native species. 'Our study shows a clear change in the ladybird community on lime trees over an 11-year period in which the Harlequin invaded England.' Over an 11 year period in which the Harlequin (pictured) invaded England it accounted for up to 70 per cent of all the ladybirds recorded. It is known to feed on 2-spot ladybirds. Harlequins can be black with red spots or orange with black spots He added: 'It remains to be seen whether native species such as the 2-spot will continue to decline to extinction at these sites, and whether the invasive Harlequin will continue to increase. 'At the least, the Harlequin is now one of the dominant species on deciduous trees in southern Britain, and there is no indication this situation will change in the short-medium term.' Dr Brown urged research on the possible negative effects of the Harlequin on other insect groups, some of which may be rather subtle, such as competition for food. The Harlequin has also been blamed for stings, bites and allergic reactions by preying on humans as they infest homes. The ladybirds are increasingly finding their way into people's houses and have even caused severe allergic reactions in some of their victims. The insect is also known for staining curtains and surfaces with a foul-smelling yellow chemical. Scientists fear the Harlequin could wipe out British ladybirds altogether after spreading rapidly. They also spread a sexually transmitted fungal disease. Just over 10 years ago, an explosive natural phenomenon sent many residents of the Indonesian island Java fleeing their homes. Mud first began erupting from several sites on May 29, 2006, spewing from the ground in jets of hot rocks and gas and, by September of that year, it was spilling enough to fill 72 Olympic-sized swimming pools every day. The ongoing eruption has baffled experts and locals alike since it first emerged, but now, scientists say they may have finally uncovered the source of the mudflows. Scroll down for video Mud first began erupting from several sites on May 29, 2006, spewing from the ground in jets of hot rocks and gas and, by September of that year, it was spilling enough to fill 72 Olympic-sized swimming pools every day WHAT IS 'LUSI'? Lusi is an ongoing mud eruption occurring across several sites on the Indonesian island, Java. The phenomenon first began on May 29, 2006, two days after a magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck the island. The eruption is spewing from the ground in jets of hot rocks and gas. By September 2006, it was spilling enough to fill 72 Olympic-sized swimming pools every day. Since it began, the mud has buried some villages as much as 40 feet deep (130 feet), and forced nearly 60,000 people to leave. Now, it still continues to spew mud periodically, though not as much as before. It currently leaks roughly 80,000 cubic meters (3 million cubic feet) of mud each day or, enough to fill 32 Olympic-sized pools. Advertisement In a new study, researchers have found evidence to suggest the eruption, dubbed Lusi, is connected deep underground to the magma chambers of the nearby Arjuno-Welirang volcanic complex. A team led by researchers at the University of Oslo used geophysics to map the area beneath the eruption, known as Lusi. Since it began, the mud has buried some villages as much as 40 feet deep (130 feet), and forced nearly 60,000 people to leave. It continues to spew mud periodically, and now leaks roughly 80,000 cubic meters (3 million cubic feet) of mud each day or, enough to fill 32 Olympic-sized pools. We clearly show the evidence that the two systems are connected at depth, said lead author Adriano Mazzini, a geoscientist at CEED University of Oslo. What our new study shows is that the whole system was already existing there everything was charged and ready to be triggered. The study found Lusi is connected to the Arjuno-Welirang complex by a system of faults 6 kilometers (4 miles) underground. And, the magma from the volcano has been baking the sediments beneath Lusi, causing pressure to build beneath the surface until it erupts. Its just a matter of reactivating or opening these faults and whatever overpressure you have gathered in the subsurface will inevitably want to escape and come to the surface, and you have a manifestation on the surface, and that is Lusi, Mazzini said. After years studying the site, the authors installed a network of 31 seismometers in the region two years ago, to create 3D images of the subsurface network. With 10 months of data, the researchers were able to map out the area below Lusi and the nearby volcanoes. This revealed a tunnel protruding from the northernmost magma chamber into Lusis sedimentary basin. In a new study, researchers have found evidence to suggest the eruption, dubbed Lusi, is connected deep underground to the magma chambers of the nearby Arjuno-Welirang volcanic complex The reactions caused by the magma and hydrothermal fluids interacting with the sediments create gas trapped beneath the surface, which builds to extremely high pressures. Then all it takes is a disturbance, such as an earthquake, to cause an eruption. The researchers suspect a magnitude 6.3 earthquake that struck the island just two days before the first mud eruption set off the strange phenomenon. This earthquake likely reactivated the fault system, they say. While its not yet clear how long Lusi will continue to erupt, the experts say it doesnt look like it will cease anytime soon. Advertisement The advent of social media has heaped pressure on holidaymakers to take better pictures. So one five-star venue in the Maldives has offered - in what's possibly a world first - some help, in the form of Instagram 'butlers'. These are knowledgeable team members who will show guests the very best places to take photographs and guide them around 'Instagram Trails', itineraries that take in some of the prime spots for envy-inducing image creation, from restaurants to dreamy atolls. The hotel in question is the five-star Conrad Hilton Resort on the island of Rangali. And the results, as MailOnline Travel reveals, are rather effective. Perfect: With help from the 'Instagram Butler', one guest at the Conrad Hilton Rangali adds wow-factor to her holiday image She's in the swing of things: Another shot taken using the butler service shows a woman relaxing on a beach, while gazing at crystal clear waters For photographers hoping to capture the magical golden hour, a term used to describe the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, the Instagram Butler will teach guests how to perfect that dream shot, with factors such as the optimum time of day and the best position to pinpoint their phones or cameras taken into consideration. Guests can also take a yoga class directed by the resorts resident scholar, where they'll be taught the best poses to capture on camera. The butlers also reveal how to take great shots in the hotel's world-first all-glass undersea restaurant, Ithaa. Other photographic activities include watching and capturing shooting stars, shooting food with celebrity chef Jereme Leung and framing atolls on an island-hopping tour. A fetching snap of the hotel's world-first all-glass undersea restaurant, Ithaa. Take a bow, Instagram butlers Now that's how to make a splash: The photo initiative steers guests into the most photogenic spots on the luxury island, including nearby atolls To prove how effective the service is, the hotel has released photographs taken by guests who used it. One, Alison Wright, snapped a woman balancing along a palm tree's trunk, just a few feet above the waves. Another Instagram Butler-generated shot is of a bikini-clad beauty relaxing on an Undholi - a traditional Maldivian swing - whilst gazing out over the Indian Ocean, which stretches before her. A third snap shows the silhouette of a woman leaping into the skyline of a bright-orange sunset, while another captures a dramatic yoga pose. There's also a fetching snap of restaurant Ithaa. Together, the photographs offer proof that a little direction goes a long way. Guests can take a yoga class directed by the resorts resident scholar, where they'll be taught the best poses to capture on camera Immaculate timing: This snap, released by the hotel to show off its innovative Instagram service, shows the silhouette of a woman leaping into the skyline of a bright-orange sunset Destination point: The resort allows guests to navigate aquatic gardens and even swim with whale sharks Beautiful: One of the spacious Conrad Hilton Resort Water Villas featuring contemporary island-inspired decor and open designs He's the air conditioning mechanic currently competing for Sophie Monk's heart on The Bachelorette. But Woman's Day have sensationally claimed that Blake Colman, 29, may secretly be dating Bachelor reject Tara Pavolvic, 27, alleging that the reality stars met up for coffee in Coffs Harbour. 'They tried to go incognito when they met', the magazine quotes a friend as saying. Reality show romance? Woman's Day have questioned whether The Bachelorette's Blake Colman and The Bachelor's Tara Pavlovic may be an item, after they reportedly caught up in Coffs Harbour Tara is based in Queensland, but took to Instagram last week snapping a selfie at the Big Banana Fun Park in Coffs Harbour. The bubbly blonde appeared with a stuffed toy sloth, captioning: 'Coffee and selfies with this absolute legend @dereckthesloth. So nice running in to you at Coffs man! Have to have bevvies soon'. Whilst Blake was nowhere to be seen in Tara's picture, Woman's Day alleges that the toy sloth actually belongs to Blake, as he snapped pictures with it on The Bachelorette. The secret of the sloth! It's believed Tara was snuggling with Blake's stuffed toy sloth (he is pictured with the toy during filming of The Bachelorette) Indeed, the West Australian tradie appears cradling the toy sloth in a picture, as he sits side-by-side with fellow competitor Sam Cochrane, who was booted from the show last week. Meanwhile, Blake is still in the running for romance with Sophie, although a source exclusively told Daily Mail Australia that he ends up placing fourth. The smooth-talker has been billed as the 'villain' on this season of the show, frequently clashing with rival Jarrod Woodgate, which may trouble stunning Sophie. Off the market? Has air conditioning mechanic Blake snapped up the beautiful blonde? It has also been revealed that the personality was spotted on dating app Bumble shortly before his reported coffee catch-up with Tara. Meanwhile, Tara is healing her own heartbreak after placing third on the most recent season The Bachelor. The blonde was left heartbroken after being dumped by Matty J. She is one of the most talked about contestants on this year's Strictly Come Dancing. And Debbie McGee, 58 - who has wowed the judges and the British public alike with her amazing dance moves - confessed she is hugely flattered by speculation she might be having a secret fling with her dance partner Giovanni Pernice, 27. Speaking exclusively to Bella magazine, she laughed off the rumors, admitting it was a huge confidence booster 'for a woman of my age'. Scroll down for video Nothing going on: Debbie McGee, 58 , laughed off rumors of a romantic affair between her and dance partner Giovanni Pernice, 27 When quizzed about speculation there could be a romance growing between them, Debbie shut down the rumors, laughing: 'I absolutely adore him and I have no doubt that he adores me. 'We have a great working dance partnership and we really love each other as human beings, so I can see why people want to say theres something going on.' She stated that the two are only invested in the dancing and are keeping their relationship utterly professional, explaining, 'We have great chemistry and love dancing together. But theres nothing going on.' Keeping it professional: Debbie laughed, 'We have great chemistry and love dancing together. But theres nothing going on' Beaming! Debbie, whose magician husband Paul Daniels passed away last year, told the magazine that she is very 'flattered' that people could think that Giovanni - who is 30 years her junior - would fancy her The widow, whose magician husband Paul Daniels passed away last year, told the magazine that she is very 'flattered' that people could think that Giovanni - who is 30 years her junior - would fancy her. Tell all chat: Debbie sat down with Bella magazine to talk all things Strictly 'For a woman of my age, it makes me feel fantastic. To be nearly 60 and have people think Id be having an affair with such a good-looking Italian is good for ones confidence.' The star expressed that she doesn't go 'looking for love', but she believes that 'whats going to be, is going to be'. Debbie also revealed that the Strictly experience is different from when she watched her late husband Paul take part in 2010, admitting things were different behind the scenes. 'I didnt really understand when they call it the Strictly family, what that was all about. 'Everyone uses the word joy and thats the perfect word for it. Its just a joy to go to work everyday. Its just a joy to go to work everyday', she said. Her fitness levels are impressive and the radio personality explained that she has always lead a busy lifestyle and has never been a 'couch potato'. Time of her life: Debbie revealed she loves being on Strictly and that it is a 'joy to go to work everyday' 'Ive never been excessive about exercise, but Ive always done something yoga, Pilates so my body is pretty fit and my muscle memory is strong', she said. Asked if she was expecting such a great public reaction, Debbie revealed she was thrilled the public have her back, adding that it's a 'lovely warm feeling'. Former head judge Len Goodman has said that he would love to see Debbie crowned this year's Strictly champion. Remaining humble, Debbie said: 'Even if I dont win, Im just living my dream.' It's already one of the most disturbing horror films ever made. But perhaps the most gruesome scene was left on the cutting room floor. On the most recent Throwing Shade podcast, actor Timothy Simons, 39, revealed he had auditioned for the role of killer clown Pennywise as he revealed that his audition scene was quite morbid. Scroll down for video Hard to top: Actor Timothy Simons, 39, revealed he had auditioned for the role of killer clown Pennywise and that his audition scene was even more gruesome than anything else in the film Simons, who plays Jonah Ryan on Veep, described the scene: 'It was [Pennywise] way back at the beginning of Derry convincing the woman to give him her baby to eat.' 'And it was scary.' 'The thing that was scariest about it was that it was very direct. It was, "If you dont do this, these are the things that Im going to do,"' said the Inherent Vice star. 'And they were all terrible.' 'I was kind of sad that it got cut,' admitted the Christine actor. Disturbing: Simons described the scene: 'It was [Pennywise] way back at the beginning of Derry convincing the woman to give him her baby to eat' Grossed out: Given the film has already grossed over $630 million worldwide, a sequel is all but guaranteed All new horror: The new film is a remake of the 1990 TV miniseries, starring Tim Curry as Pennywise Swedish actor Bill Skarsgard, 27, ultimately played the role of Pennywise to much critical acclaim. And though the terrifying baby-eating moment didn't make the final cut of the film, a version of the scene from the script can be found on Reddit. Given the film has already grossed over $630 million worldwide, a sequel is all but guaranteed, meaning the horrifying scene could still make it to screens when the new film is released in 2019. How Swede it is: Swedish actor Bill Skarsgard, 27, ultimately played the role of Pennywise to much critical acclaim And filmmaker and star may already be plotting new material for the second film, if director Andy Muschietti's Instagram account is anything to go by. On Sunday, the 44 year old Argentine filmmaker posted a snap of he and Skarsgard hanging out in what looked like a hotel room. The Atomic Blonde actor is giving his best creepy clown smile for the camera. Orlando Bloom is nearly inseparable from his beloved pooch Mighty, and the handsome Englishman was spotted walking the dog in Prague on Monday. The 40-year-old SAG Award winner certainly had his hands full for the cobble-stone stroll while clad in Nike Air Jordan sneakers, jeans, and a white top reading 'Sporting Club.' The Unlocked actor's street sighting came three days after he shared a video of his grueling shirtless workout with 'King of Pull-ups' Jan Kare. Scroll down for video Poodle: Orlando Bloom is nearly inseparable from his beloved pooch Mighty, and the handsome Englishman was spotted walking the dog in Prague on Monday Hands full: The 40-year-old SAG Award winner took the cobble-stone stroll while clad in Nike Air Jordan sneakers, jeans, and a white top reading 'Sporting Club' '100 pull-ups, 100 leg raises, 200 push-ups, 400 squats,' sweaty Orly - who boasts 2.1M social media followers - announced, all puffed out. 'Anyway it was a great workout, you can tell' Since last Tuesday, Bloom has been hard at work on the Czech set of Amazon's fantastical 2019 series Carnival Row, in which he plays Rycroft Philostrate. Suicide Squad's Cara Delevingne and The Expanse's Jared Harris also star in the Victorian-style show produced by Guillermo del Toro. Intense training: The Unlocked actor's street sighting came three days after he shared a video of his grueling shirtless workout with 'King of Pull-ups' Jan Kare (R) All puffed out, sweaty Orly announced: '100 pull-ups, 100 leg raises, 200 push-ups, 400 squats. Anyway it was a great workout, you can tell' Guillermo del Toro producing: Since last Tuesday, Bloom has been hard at work on the Czech set of Amazon's fantastical 2019 series Carnival Row, in which he plays Rycroft Philostrate The Lord of the Rings alum ended his year-long relationship with pop diva Katy Perry in February, but she still contributed her song Roulette to his recent film S.M.A.R.T. Chase. 'I'm a bit younger in heart! I'm a bit more mature...single!' the 13-time Grammy nominee - turning 33 in two weeks - revealed to ET on Sunday. 'You know, when you're single, you got a lot of time to yourself and a lot of energy, and I'm just finding a delicate balance.' Meanwhile, the Pirates of the Caribbean star's ex-wife Miranda Kerr admitted she fell into a 'really intense depression' during their 2013 divorce. Witness Tour: The Lord of the Rings alum ended his year-long relationship with pop diva Katy Perry (pictured Thursday) in February, but she still contributed her song Roulette to his recent film S.M.A.R.T. Chase The 32-year-old Grammy nominee announced to ET on Sunday: 'Single! You know, when you're single, you got a lot of time to yourself and a lot of energy' Exes on parade! Meanwhile, the Pirates of the Caribbean star's ex-wife Miranda Kerr admitted she fell into a 'really intense depression' during their 2013 divorce (pictured in 2013) The Australian 34-year-old told Refinery29 on Monday: 'I wanted to keep the family together, but I knew that it was for the best to not be together...I was so overwhelmed with this intensity of emotions that I was feeling. It felt like I was in a dark hole and I didn't know how to get out' Mexican wrestler hoodie: The KORA Organics co-founder - who wed Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel in May - shares custody of six-year-old son Flynn (L) with Orlando 'After Orlando and I separated, like a few months later, I fell into this really intense depression where I didn't even know where it came from,' the Australian 34-year-old said during Refinery29's UnStyled podcast on Monday. 'I wanted to keep the family together, but I knew that it was for the best to not be together, so I couldn't even put my finger on it, because I knew it was the right choice. I was so overwhelmed with this intensity of emotions that I was feeling. It felt like I was in a dark hole and I didn't know how to get out.' The KORA Organics co-founder - who wed Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel in May - shares custody of six-year-old son Flynn with Orlando. The Handsoff Campaign activist will soon head to Italy where his childhood sexual abuse drama Romans will screen at the Rome Film Festival's Alice nella Citta running October 26 to November 5. A Billings City Council subcommittee is arranging opportunities for public input for selecting the new city administrator. The council will meet mostly behind closed doors Oct. 30 with The Mercer Group Inc. of Santa Fe, New Mexico, the executive search firm assisting with finding the successor to Tina Volek, who retired Sept. 30 after 12 years as city administrator. To date, about three dozen people have applied for the job. We are going to lose some good candidates, Councilman Dick Clark said, if their names are out there. Under the present schedule as discussed by Council members Clark, Larry Brewster and Angela Cimmino as well as Mayor Tom Hanel, the council will announce publicly the names of about five finalists. Brooks and Dahl recommend that council deliberations over the merits of those finalists be done in public. The Mercer Group will advise the finalists that their names and current positions will be made public on Oct. 30. The out-of-town finalists will journey to Billings for a two-day vetting process Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 that is mostly open to the public. A public forum will be held during the evening of Nov. 29 or Nov. 30, depending on the finalists schedules. The council will interview each of the finalists in open session. Department heads and the media will also have time with each of them. The council will hold a special meeting Dec. 1 to begin their deliberations on the finalists. Its possible the council could go into closed session that evening if some new information or sensitive material surfaces concerning one or more of the finalists. The Dec. 1 meeting will include a public comment period before the council makes its selection. Tom Zurbuchen, a member of a citizens committee thats also advising the council, said he wants the group to have the opportunity to also interview the finalists. We dont have a say, he said, but the public needs to know whats going on. Without interviewing, we have no way to tell the public what were seeing. But the citizens group has already fulfilled that role, Brewster said, by helping the council tell The Mercer Group about which qualities the council is looking for in the new administrator. The City Council is a public committee too. The Dec. 1 outcome will be one of the most important decisions the council will be called on to make, Brewster acknowledged. The city administrator impacts a lot more than just (the council), Brewster said. They have a broad reach. Advertisement VS Angels Jasmine Tookes, Jourdan Dunn and Lais Ribeiro all dazzled at Michael Kors' God's Love We Deliver Golden Heart Awards in New York Monday. The runway stunners all looked marvellous in metallic at the 11th annual gala supporting HIV/AIDS charity God's Love We Deliver. Jasmine, 26, dazzled in a gold crushed-lame blouse and pleated trousers, both from the Fall 2017 Michael Kors Collection, while British beauty Jourdan, 27, took the plunge in a low cut gold number and Lais, 27, showcased her sartorial flair in a striking black dress. Scroll down for video Heaven sent! Victoria's Secret Angels Jasmine Tookes (L) Jourdan Dunn (M) and Lais Ribeiro (R) all dazzled at Golden Heart Awards in New York on Monday dressed in Michael Kors' Collection Californian beauty Jasmine rounded out her look with black Jacqueline leather sandals from Michael Kors Collection, simple earrings and geometric rings. The smiling star also smoothed her hair back to showcase her high cheekbones and picture perfect pout. Brazilian Lais sparkled in a black-and-silver rose medallion jacquard trumpet dress from the Transeason 2017 Michael Kors Collection, which hugged her world class figure before flaring out with drama. Slim pickings! Californian beauty Jasmine rounded out her look with black Jacqueline leather sandals from Michael Kors Collection, simple earrings and geometric rings 14 carat beauty! Jasmine dazzled in a gold jumpsuit belted to feature her slim middle She's got flare! Lais, 27, sparkled in a black-and-silver rose medallion jacquard trumpet dress from the Transeason 2017 Michael Kors Collection, which hugged her world class figure before flaring out with drama The Brazilian beauty styled her hair in loose waves while accenting her already striking features with fluttering lashes and a well-rounded glow. The mother-of-one added a bit of sparkle with diamond jewelry on her ears and hands while wearing a pair of black Jacqueline patent leather sandals from Michael Kors Collection and holding a black Elsie calf hair clutch from MICHAEL Michael Kors. Fellow beauty Jourdan Dunn looked fierce in a gold cheetah print frock from Michael Kors which dipped low to reveal her bust. You glow girl! The mother-of-one added a bit of sparkle with diamond jewelry and a black Elsie calf hair clutch from MICHAEL Michael Kors Sealed with a kiss! She blew a kiss while striking a pose for the crowd Dazzling diva: Gwyneth Paltrow kept the metallic trend doing in a silver Kors frock which showed off hints of skin with swathes of nude mesh nestled amidst silver The 5 ft 11in fashionista kept her hair straight and shiny with a sharp centre part. Gwyneth Paltrow kept the metallic trend doing in a silver frock which showed off hints of skin with swathes of nude mesh nestled amidst silver. The Academy Award winner matched her look with silver heels while styling her hair in romantic waves. Making waves! The Academy Award winner matched her look with silver heels while styling her hair in romantic waves Friends in high places! At the event she shared a laugh with the designer of her dress Michael Kors, who looked sharp in a suit Leave-ing the way! Kors cozied up to Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour, who wore her signature shades along with a dark gown beaded with winsome white fronds At the event she shared a laugh with designer Michael Kors, who looked sharp in a suit. Kors, who God's Love We Deliver named their headquarters building in honor of, cozied up to Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour at the gala. The Ice Queen wore her signature shades along with a dark gown beaded with winsome white fronds. Honored! God's Love We Deliver named their headquarters building in honor of Michael Kors The cat's meow! IMG beauty Hilary Rhoda was also there, sporting a striking burgundy dress with leopard pattern while revealed her endless stems with a thigh high slit Face time! The face of Estee Lauder slicked her locks back into a high ponytail while lining her eyes with kohl All set! Serayah McNeill turned heads in a stylish blue bandau and matching pants IMG beauty Hilary Rhoda was also there, sporting a striking burgundy dress with leopard pattern by the designer while revealed her endless stems with a thigh high slit. She slicked her locks back into a high ponytail while lining her eyes with kohl. The face of Estee Lauder rounded out her look with strappy black stilettos and a matching clutch. Three wishes! The actress styled her hair in an I Dream Of Jeanie-like braid down her back Purr-fect! The Empire beauty paired the look with a fierce cat eye and silver statement earrings Serayah McNeill turned heads in a stylish blue bandau and matching pants with hearty black belt at center. The Empire beauty paired the look with a fierce cat eye, silver statement earrings and an I Dream Of Jeanie-like braid cascading down her back. Kate Hudson, who was one of the event's co-chairs, sizzled in a shimmering red dress with an assymetrical strap sweeping across her bust. Red hot! Kate Hudson, who was one of the event's co-chairs, sizzled in a shimmering custom red dress with an asymmetrical strap sweeping across her bust Flash! The daughter of Goldie Hawn also paused for a photo with Michael Kors Top of the crops! The short tressed beauty amped up the glamour with a subdued smokey eye while accessorizing with a crimson envelope clutch and pointy, nude pumps The short tressed beauty amped up the glamour with a subdued smokey eye while accessorizing with a crimson envelope clutch and pointy, nude pumps. Ashley Graham showed off her ample curves in a monochrome skirt paired with a clingy black tank. The 29-year-old beauty belted her ensemble in the middle to accentuate her hourglass curves. Tanks a lot! Ashley Graham showed off her ample curves in a monochrome skirt paired with a clingy black tank Va-va-voom! The 29-year-old beauty belted her ensemble in the middle to accentuate her hourglass curves Flower power! Maggie Gyllenhaal donned a blue Michael Kors jacket along with a floor length halter dress in a yellow shade of the same textile Maggie Gyllenhaal donned a blue floral jacket along with a floor length halter dress in a yellow shade of the same textile. The Deuce star carried a boxy clutch while wearing brick red lips and a textured bob. Joan Smalls looked sharp in a white jacket and floral slacks, while piling on the sex appear with a bra-free blue blouse unbuttoned to reveal maximum amounts of chest. In the clutch! The Deuce star carried a boxy clutch while wearing brick red lips and a textured bob Well suited! Joan Smalls looked sharp in a white jacket, floral slacks and bra-free blouse Missed a button? Joan oozed sex appeal while unbuttoning her blouse to reveal maximum amounts of chest She paired the look with smoky silver eyeshadow, brown lipstick and white heels. Romee Strijd made pulses race in a plunging black dress which revealed swathes of her smooth chest and belted in the center. The Dutch darling tied her golden tresses back into a messy chic pony. Well heeled! She paired the look with smoky silver eyeshadow, brown lipstick and white heels Breathtaking! Romee Strijd made pulses race in a plunging black dress which revealed swathes of her smooth chest and belted in the center Pony up! The Swedish stunner tied her golden tresses back into a messy chic pony Model Amber Valleta also took the plunge in black sequins and fringe by Michael Kors. She kept her makeup natural while framing her face with a loose updo, joined at the event by beau Teddy Charles. Gabrielle Union was sharp in a double breasted khaki suit paired with textured tresses and a croc-skin handbag. Well-fitted! Romee's dress hugged her world-class body like a glove Heel's to you! She accessorized with a studded purse and strappy stilettos heels Drama-rama! Model Amber Valleta also took the plunge in black sequins and fringe by Michael Kors Date night! She kept her makeup natural while framing her face with a loose updo, joined at the event by beau Teddy Charles Double or something! Gabrielle Union was sharp in a double breasted khaki suit paired with textured tresses and a croc-skin handbag Hart-breaker! Sports Illustrated beauty Jessica Hart showed off her statuesque figure in patterned pants and a white blouse She added a dash of sparkle with gold heels. Sports Illustrated beauty Jessica Hart showed off her statuesque figure in patterned pants and a white blouse. The Aussie accented her cleavage with a collection of necklaces sweeping her decolletage. Goldilocks! Jessica wore her blonde tresses in cascading curls while choosing to go bra free Go low! The Aussie accented her cleavage with a collection of necklaces sweeping her decolletage Fringe appeal! Alexandra Richards wowed in a drapey red and black dress with fringe-adorned sleeves She's a natural! The daughter of Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richard styled her blonde locks in loose waves while keeping her makeup at a minimum Alexandra Richards wowed in a drapey red and black dress with fringe-adorned sleeves. The daughter of Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richard styled her blonde locks in loose waves while keeping her makeup at a minimum. Lola Kirke sported a shimmering silver down which offered hints of skin with semi-sheer fabric. Sheer wonder! Lola Kirke sported a shimmering silver down which offered hints of skin with semi-sheer fabric Side swept! The Mozart In The Jungle actress styled her light brown locks to the side while painting her lips in a berry hue Bows and arrows! Rising talent Emily Robinson looked elegant in strapless plaid monochrome belted with a femme bow The Mozart In The Jungle actress styled her light brown locks to the side while painting her lips in a berry hue. Rising talent Emily Robinson looked elegant in strapless plaid monochrome belted with a femme bow. She adorned her look with embellished heels, a sparkling clutch and drop earrings. Royal flush! Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Denmark graced the event in a slinky lace dress Well accessorized! She added cat-eyed liner, a chic top-knot, gold clutch and matching shoes for extra glamour Boy in blue! Andrew Rannells of Girls fame looked sharp in a blue suit and textured tie Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Denmark graced the event in a slinky lace dress. She added cat-eyed liner, a chic top-knot, gold clutch and matching shoes for extra glamour. Andrew Rannells of Girls fame looked sharp in a blue suit and textured tie. Super style! Superwoman Lynda Carter was ultra chic in a black suit with flared trousers Lacy lady! Heiress Ariana Rockefeller looked chic in a black silk dress which featured lacy sleeves and sheer skirt Heiress Ariana Rockefeller looked chic in a black silk dress which featured lacy sleeves and sheer skirt. Superwoman Lynda Carter was ultra chic in a black suit with flared trousers. She styled the look with a sky-high ponytail and chandelier earrings. Yummy! Food Network star Sandra Lee was lovely in a longsleeve dress with long skirt and empire waist which she polished up with heeled mules Sunshine day! She looked fabulous in her bright yellow ensemble Bloomin' beautiful! Maggie Gyllenhaal showed off her sartorial flair in a sensational black and yellow floral dress Regal: Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Denmark showed off her sexy side in a skin-tight animal print dress Striking: Emily Robinson looked absolutely striking in her ankle-grazing dress She swept her shiny brunette tresses to one side while holding a quilted clutch under her arm. Food Network star Sandra Lee was lovely in a longsleeve dress with long skirt and empire waist which she polished up with heeled mules. Harley Viera Newton donned a sunny yellow dress with white lace collar. High society: Above Vogue EIC Anna Wintour poses with Blaine Trump, who was married to President Trump's youngest brother Robert until 2007 Giving and glam! Jasmine Tookes and Romee Strijd sat together at the 11th Annual Golden Heart Awards benefiting God's Love We Deliver The English beauty teamed the mod look with nude heels, a boxy bag and wavy golden locks. During the celebration actor, entrepreneur and philanthropist Gwyneth Paltrow received the Michael Kors Award for Outstanding Community Service. The non-profit God's Love We Deliver's mission is 'to improve the health and well-being of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other serious illnesses by alleviating hunger and malnutrition.' The organization has served over 20million meals during it's 32-year run. Helping hand: The non-profit God's Love We Deliver's mission is 'to improve the health and well-being of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other serious illnesses by alleviating hunger and malnutrition' Back in town after touring Europe, John Legend is taking in some family time. The Oscar-winning music star was glimpsed out in Los Angeles on Monday with his wife Chrissy Teigen and their one-year-old daughter Luna. Chrissy, 31, showed off her supermodel legs in a frayed pair of denim shorts. Scroll down for video Party of three! John Legend was glimpsed out in Los Angeles on Monday with his wife Chrissy Teigen and their one-year-old daughter Luna Her faded bottoms matched the denim jacket she wore with the cuffs folded up, and she swept back and braided her hair. Chrissy matched her black V-neck top with a chic black pair of butterfly sunglasses and was seen holding her toddler as she walked beside John. Meanwhile, John, 38, showed off his toned arms in a black T-shirt. So stylish! Chrissy, 31, showed off her supermodel legs in a frayed pair of denim shorts Double denim: Her faded bottoms matched the denim jacket she wore with the cuffs folded up, and she swept back and braided her hair Out on the town! Chrissy matched her black V-neck top with a chic black pair of butterfly sunglasses and was seen holding her toddler Pumpkin patch time: The family of three had some fun at a local patch Hay of a time! Luna looked thrilled to be playing on the bales The La La Land scene-stealer had pulled on a pair of charcoal trousers with tears over the knee, plus some black-laced white sneakers. He accessorized with aviator sunglasses and a sleek watch. It wasn't just Chrissy on baby duty - she was seen that day seeming to hand little Luna over to John as they stood in a car park. So handsome! Meanwhile, John, 38, showed off his toned arms in a black T-shirt Simply stylish! The La La Land scene-stealer had pulled on a pair of charcoal trousers with tears over the knee, plus some black-laced white sneakers That day, Chrissy couldn't help but share a shirtless photo of her hunky husband to celebrate his swinging back stateside. 'Daddy's home!!' the model gushed in the photo, which was posted to her Snapchat account. Doting dad John had a huge smile on his face as he affectionately carried his little girl Luna, who was also wrapped up in a towel. The hand-off: It wasn't just Chrissy on baby duty - she was seen that day seeming to hand little Luna over to John as they stood in a car park Four years on: The couple have been married since 2013 John was clearly elated to be reunited with his girls, and hours earlier took to Instagram to share a heart-melting video of himself singing his song Coming Home to Chrissy and Luna. 'Hi @chrissyteigen. Hi Luna,' he captioned the video. Though John has been busy travelling the world as part of his Darkness and Light World Tour, he was joined by Chrissy and Luna at some parts of his travels. 'Daddy's home!!': Proud wife Chrissy Teigen couldn't help but share a shirtless photo of her hunky husband John Legend as he held their daughter Luna on Monday For his girls: John was clearly elated to be reunited with his girls, and hours earlier took to Instagram to share a heart-melting video of himself singing his song Coming Home to Chrissy and Luna Back on the road: John will resume his tour next month on November 4 at Johannesburg, South Africa (pictured in London in 2017) John's wife, meanwhile, has been hard at work promoting her new clothing collaboration with Revolve, Chrissy Teigen x Revolve collection. Last week, she attended a launch part for her new collection, where she spoke about dressing for her husband. 'I kind of know what sets him off...' she told E! news. 'I know if we're going on a little date he'll want to touch my back so I'll wear something backless or I'll wear something leggy.' 'He's very much into skin but in a discrete way he's not like, "Ooooh those boobies!"... Thank God, he's not an ass guy! Like he's never like, "Damn that a**!"' John will resume his tour next month on November 4 at Johannesburg, South Africa. Hard at work: Last week, she attended a launch part for her new collection, where she spoke about dressing for her husband Women in media are leading the chorus of women praising outgoing Today host Lisa Wilkinson for refusing to accept pay inequity. ABC's 7:30 host Leigh Sales led the charge on Twitter on Monday, paying tribute to Lisa's 'highly competent and warm presence' and telling Nine: 'huge loss for them.' The Project co-host Carrie Bickmore, shared her excitement at Lisa joining the show, while Sally Obermeder and even NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian also weighed-in. 'Thank you for taking a stand'; Women in media are leading the chorus of women praising outgoing Today host Lisa Wilkinson for refusing to accept pay inequity with Karl Stefanovic Women In Media Australia founder Tracy Spicer, didn't hold back, writing: 'On behalf of Women In Media, THANK YOU @Lisa_Wilkinson for taking a stand over equal pay.' The Channel Ten and Sky News veteran described Lisa, 57, as a 'role model' for all women in media. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian was unrelenting with her opposition to the way Channel Nine dealt with the ordeal. 'If the reason is about equal pay I say good on her... That would be akin to me getting a pay cut because my predecessors weren't female,' she wrote. 'Huge loss for them': ABC's 7:30 host Leigh Sales led the charge on Twitter on Monday, paying tribute to Lisa's 'highly competent and warm prescence' and telling Nine: 'huge loss for them' 'Class act': Upon hearing Monday's news confirming Lisa had quit the Today show - effective immediately - to join Ten's The Project, Sally Obermeder described Lisa as a 'class act' She added: 'I completely appreciate her position if that's the reason and I congratulate her taking that step.' Former Sunrise star Melissa Doyle, who was 'axed' from her hosting gig in 2014, made a tongue-in-cheek reference her breakfast TV rivalry with Lisa. 'Hey we can do dinner now @Lisa_Wilkinson Congratulations! Enjoy sleeping in x,' she wrote, excited that the pair could rekindle their friendship. 'Good on her': Even NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian weighed-in, claiming Lisa not getting equal pay wo 'akin to me getting a pay cut because my predecessors weren't female Upon hearing Monday's news confirming Lisa had quit the Today show - effective immediately - to join Ten's The Project, Sally Obermeder took to Instagram. '@Lisa_Wilkinson you are a class act through and through,' she wrote, 'congratulations on all that you have achieved. You should be so proud.' 'Thank you!' Tracy Spicer, who founded Women In Media Australia, didn't hold back, writing: 'On behalf of Women In Media, THANK YOU @Lisa_Wilkinson for taking a stand over equal pay' ABC's Virginia Trioli, who's no stranger to her own 'pay gap,' controversy, made sure to remind the ten-year Today show veteran to soak-up her time off. She wrote: 'Thinking of my colleague @Lisa_Wilkinson snoozing past 3am today and basking in the decision of a smart, bold and empowered decision. Go girl!' Fashion forward! Lisa's bold move also made a splash in the world of fashion, with renowned artist Megan Hess, who works for the likes of Prada and Dior, sharing her support 'Proud and lucky': 'How proud and lucky as women we are to have you @lisa_wilkinson,' she wrote on Instagram Lisa's bold move also made a splash in the world of fashion, with renowned artist Megan Hess, who works for the likes of Prada and Dior, sharing her support. 'How proud and lucky as women we are to have you @lisa_wilkinson,' she wrote on Instagram. 'Standing up for equality helps us all and shows just how strong and authentic you are.' Snooze! ABC's Virginia Trioli wrote: 'Thinking of my colleague @Lisa_Wilkinson snoozing past 3am today and basking in the decision of a smart, bold and empowered decision She concluded: 'You do everything with dignity and have helped many other women feel courageous enough to do the same.' Meanwhile, The Project co-host Carrie Bickmore seemingly shut down chatter that Lisa's appointment could threaten her own employment. She took to Twitter to share her joy about getting such a talented new cast mate, writing: 'Welcome to my lovely friend @lisa_wilkinson (fist bump emoji).' Excited! The Project co-host Carrie Bickmore seemingly shut-down chatter that Lisa's appointment on the show could threaten her own employment Fist bump! Carrie took to Twitter to share her joy about getting such a talented new cast mate, writing: 'Welcome to my lovely friend @lisa_wilkinson' Her powerful stance wasn't lost on the world of reality TV either, with Married At First Sight star Clare Verrall posting a passionate message on Instagram. 'Well done for fighting for pay parity with your male co-host. Channel 9 is renowned & totally accepted for its 'boys club' culture,' she wrote. 'Maybe this will make them wake up & make a change to their culture.' Carrie Ann Inaba is an open book. The 49-year-old TV personality on Monday, appearing on CBS's The Talk, opened up about how dealing with chronic fatigue has dampened her desire to have sex. The Dancing with the Stars judge was sitting in on the panel of the CBS program this week alongside panelists Sharon Osbourne, Sheryl Underwood, Sara Gilbert and Julie Chen, as well as radio personality Ellen K in the appearance. Scroll below for video Opening up: Carrie Ann Inaba, 49, discussed on The Talk Monday how her issue with chronic fatigue has tempered her sex life at times Ellen K brought up a recent news bit about Pink's recent comments to The Guardian about how she'll 'go through times when [she hasn't] had sex in a year.' Ellen K then asked the panel, 'Do you go through dry spells in your relationship?' Inaba, a Honolulu, Hawaii native, said that she's 'been through periods where its gone a little dry because of my energy,' citing her 'struggle with some health stuff ... like, chronic fatigue.' Inaba said that her physical weariness can overshadow her mental desires, saying that 'when it comes in, thats the furthest thing you ever want. Light-hearted: Inaba, flanked by Sharon Osbourne (L) and Julie Chen (R), has been revealing about her personal life in her appearances on the CBS chat show Chemistry: The chatter was lively on Monday's panel, which inlcuded (L-R) Sheryl Underwood, Sara Gilbert, Sharon Osbourne, Ellen K, Osbourne, Inaba and Chen 'I just cant do it I want to, but I cant,' Inaba said. 'So, sometimes its not even about want: You want, but you cant.' Inaba noted that the condition has caused her to search for intimacy elsewhere in her relationships. 'I found it to be a blessing because I found other ways to keep the relationship strong,' she said, noting that just because she's not in the mood to make love doesn't mean she ignores her partner. Exhausted: Inaba said that she's been too tired for sexual activity even when she desires it, noting, 'I just cant do it I want to, but I cant' Alternatives: Inaba said that the sex void can be filled with other intimate activities 'Your'e just like ... "Let's talk, let's read a book together, let's talk about intimate things, let's find other ways to bond,"' Inaba said. Elsewhere on the panel, the ladies had different takes on the issue of dry spells in relationships when it comes to sexual desires. 'Everybody does' have them, Osbourne said, while Gilbert noted that 'some people are OK having a sexless marriage. Game-plan: Chen said that she and her husband Leslie Moonves plan to never be apart for more than four days 'That would never work for me personally,' said Gilbert, 42, who's been married to musician Linda Perry for more than three years. Chen, who's been wed to CBS head Leslie Moonves since 2004, said that she and her husband have a 'four-day rule' so they're never physically separated for too long, adding, 'Thank God I never had a dry spell.' Lynda Carter donned a black double-breasted blazer and leggy skirt for the God's Love We Deliver 11th Annual Golden Heart Awards in Manhattan on Monday. The original Wonder Woman - who played Diana Prince in the ABC/CBS series (1975-79) - easily defied her 66 years at the philanthropy event honoring Gwyneth Paltrow. Joining the Supergirl actress at Spring Studios was her pink-clad gal pal Blaine Trump, who divorced President Donald Trump's younger brother Robert in 2008. Scroll down for video Evergreen: Lynda Carter donned a black double-breasted blazer and leggy skirt for the God's Love We Deliver 11th Annual Golden Heart Awards in Manhattan on Monday While visiting the Big Apple, Lynda (born Linda) had a VIP meet-and-greet with the cast of Hamilton after catching a showing of the Broadway hit musical. Carter - who boasts 863K social media followers - wrote on Sunday: 'Thank you @hamiltonmusical for that unbelievable performance! In awe of your talent!' On Saturday, the Maryland-based mother-of-two and her 27-year-old daughter Jessica (with second husband Robert A. Altman) performed her cabaret act at Jazz at Lincoln Center's Appel Room. Fans of the DC Comics Amazon warrior can expect the Miss World America 1972 to appear in Patty Jenkins' 2019 sequel alongside Gal Gadot. Played Diana Prince in the ABC/CBS series (1975-79): The original Wonder Woman easily defied her 66 years at the philanthropy event honoring Gwyneth Paltrow Socialite: Joining the Supergirl actress at Spring Studios was her pink-clad gal pal Blaine Trump, who divorced President Donald Trump's younger brother Robert in 2008 'In awe of your talent!' While visiting the Big Apple, Lynda (born Linda) had a VIP meet-and-greet with the cast of Hamilton after catching a showing of the Broadway musical on Sunday 'Thank you to everyone who came!' On Saturday, the Maryland-based mother-of-two and her 27-year-old daughter Jessica (with second husband Robert A. Altman) performed her cabaret act at Jazz at Lincoln Center's Appel Room 'Oh we tried, tried, tried,' the 46-year-old Emmy nominee tweeted about including Lynda on June 4. 'And we won't stop trying.' Carter will likely return as Durlan refugee-turned-President Olivia Marsdin in the third season of Supergirl, which airs Mondays on The CW. And the ASU alum will also play Governor Jessman in Jay Chandrasekhar's sequel Super Troopers 2 - hitting US theaters April 20 - alongside Rob Lowe, Brian Cox, and Emmanuelle Chriqui. Pictured May 25: Fans of the DC Comics Amazon warrior can expect the Miss World America 1972 to appear in Patty Jenkins' (L) 2019 sequel alongside Gal Gadot (M) The 46-year-old Emmy nominee tweeted about including Lynda on June 4: 'Oh we tried, tried, tried. And we won't stop trying' The Hipster gods of pop were never kind to George Michael. However hard he tried, he was always the uncoolest star in showbiz. His career split into three acts: the bopping pretty-boy with a dyed perm, the screamingly conceited prima donna and the embarrassing pot-head. George was self-aware enough to understand that his image problems obscured his music. He wrote a stream of hits that 'burst out of the radio', he said, but all the public saw were bangle earrings and tight shorts. George Michael: Freedom, the new Channel 4 documentary hit our screens last night, coming up for a year after the singer's unexpected death Michael's (pictured centre) career split into three acts: the bopping pretty-boy with a dyed perm, the screamingly conceited prima donna and the embarrassing pot-head, writes Christopher Stevens The shock effect of George Michael: Freedom (C4), the autobiographical film he was still making when he died last December, erupted from the cumulative impact of all those hits. Every song was instantly recognisable, and there seemed to be dozens he made Madonna and Prince look like part-timers. It was amazing to realise, too, how many superstars shared the mic with him for duets: Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Paul McCartney, Tony Bennett and more. The queue of famous fans lining up to praise him in the updated parts of the documentary was just as dazzling. Some were self-serving, such as comedians James Corden (who had a little weep for the camera) and Ricky Gervais, all platitudes and fake grin. A long line of stars spoke fondly of the pop legend and the influence he had on the music industry, including Sir Elton John (pictured) Ex-Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher (pictured) was another to praise the Wham! singer's legacy Others had real insights to offer, such as Elton's shrewd observation that the intro to the 1990 single Praying For Time sounded like John Lennon at his best. Record producer Mark Ronson eloquently described George's theme song, Freedom, as 'a funk groove masterpiece it's the Mona Lisa'. Supermodel Kate Moss, artist Tracey Emin and designer Jean Paul Gaultier all elbowed their way into the tributes. It would have been a sickening love-in, were it not that George died far too young, at 53, after his brilliant career had long since sputtered out. The documentary was filmed before his death, but it came too soon for him to be able to record a voiceover for it - so a soundalike actor did the job instead His death on Christmas Day last year came before he was able to tape the voiceover for the documentary. A soundalike actor did the job. But no one could have matched his voice on the songs: as a well-chosen selection of clips and live recordings showed, George excelled at everything from soft soul to all-out rock. Because this was a self-portrait, it skirted around George's chronic drugs problems, and made no mention of the circumstances surrounding his death. But it also neglected to mention that he was an endlessly generous man, who gave away millions without asking for recognition. No one could accuse Anne Robinson of failing to demand recognition. She was showing off her Cotswold home in Abortion On Trial (BBC2) as eight women gathered round her kitchen table to discuss their experiences. Anne Robinson (pictured) presented BBC2 documentary Abortion On Trial to mark the 50th anniversary of the abortion act in the UK Eight women from around the country (pictured) gathered round the table with the Weakest Link presenter to discuss their experiences. Christopher Stevens has slammed it as 'tasteless' It marked the 50th anniversary of the 1967 Abortion Act, making it legal for doctors to perform terminations. The women's tales were heartbreaking none more so than the 47-year-old who ended two pregnancies and still mourned the unborn sons she named Jude and Paul. Now she wanted all abortions banned. Anne seemed more interested in stirring conflict than in listening to grief-stricken testimonies. One woman walked out, after the presenter urged her to confront an opponent. A token man joined in, apparently picked for his incendiary views rather than his brains. Ex-soldier Lee said women should not have the right to an abortion without the father's consent. Anne ran rings round him, tricking him into saying judges should have the power to order an abortion, even if a woman didn't want it. It was cheap and tasteless. This emotive subject deserves far better. DOCUMENTARY OF THE MONTH The U.S. war in Vietnam looms behind outstanding TV such as Mad Men, and countless great movies. But the history is hazy. The superb 10-part The Vietnam War (BBC4) puts that right. Well worth the effort. Scout Willis, 26, and Tallulah Willis, 23, are frequently spotted together, in places as varied as New York and Germany. And on Monday, the tight knit sisters were together again, this time to do some shopping in Beverly Hills. The fashion-savvy daughters of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore looked effortlessly cool as they stepped out in the Los Angeles heat with a friend. Style twins: Scout Willis, 26, and Tallulah Willis, 23, are frequently spotted together, in places as varied as New York and Germany. On Monday they were spotted in Los Angeles Tallulah wore a pink dress patterned with small flowers. The hem sat just above the youngest Willis sister's knee, showing off her slim pins. The 23 year old wore white leather clogs on her feet and carried a red suede handbag. She wore her blonde locks tied back in a loose bun and covered her eyes with rose tinted sunglasses. Pretty in pink! Tallulah wore a pink dress patterned with small flowers. The hem sat just above the youngest Willis sister's knee, showing off her slim pins Her older sister, meanwhile, rocked a pair of high-waisted black jeans with red heels and a striped, low cut top. Over her shoulders was slung a brown suede jacket with red leather lapels and green shoulder patches. She carried a brown leather handbag decorated with vintage Playboy magazine covers. Her brunette locks hung loose and were parted down the center. Big sister: Her older sister, Scout, meanwhile, rocked a pair of high-waisted black jeans with red heels and a striped, low cut top Recently, the sisters posted snaps of another family outing to Instagram. Last week, Scout and Tallulah traveled to Germany to visit their grandmother - and the birthplace of their actor father, Bruce Willis. The post was captioned in part: 'BLESSINGS!!!!!Today I had the absolute privilege of having the most wild misadventures with @buuski and our glorious matriarch Marlene Willis.' The American comedian butted heads with the Sunrise presenter in August in a combative interview that has since gone viral. Now, Kathy Griffin has announced she believes Samantha Armytage was 'a little bit unwell' during their original showdown and the two should duke it out. The 56-year-old told KIIS FM's Kyle And Jackie O on Tuesday: 'I'm happy to challenge her to a cage match - two dogs enter, one dog leaves.' Scroll down for video 'Two dogs enter, one dog leaves!': American comedian Kathy Griffin challenges journalist Samantha Armytage to a CAGE FIGHT after THAT viral combative Sunrise interview Combative: When questioned by Sunrise host Sam (pictured) about her controversial Trump photo in August, Kathy fired back: 'Youre full of crap. Stop this. You know this' Sam hit back at the funny woman earlier this month, describing her as 'unwell' and once again slammed her for a controversial stunt that involved a fake picture of a decapitated Donald Trump. Kathy was well aware of the latest comments made by the Australian personality, venting her frustrations with the Sydney radio duo. 'She has been doing interviews where she said that she thinks I'm unwell. She feels that my answer when I told her she was full of crap made me quote "unwell," which makes me feel bad, because I heard she has scurvy,' she joked. 'So she was like "don't you think you've went too far?" and I'm like, "Really? After the President is Tweeting there could be a nuclear holocaust tomorrow?" So I just go, you're full of crap,' Kathy added. 'She thinks I'm unwell... which makes me feel bad, because I heard she has scurvy': Kathy threw shade at Sam (PICTURED) after she vented her frustrations at being labelled 'unwell' in numerous interviews by the TV host Butting heads AGAIN? Kathy suggested the cage match would be a fight to the death as she stated she was 'scrappy' and would 'float like a butterfly, sting like a bee' Kathy cheekily suggested that after Sam has been doing all these interview, she 'put her on the map.' 'I'm happy to challenge her to a cage match - two dogs enter, one dog leaves,' she said confidentially. When asked by host Jackie 'O' Henderson if she thought she's win, Kathy suggested: 'I'm little, but I'm scrappy... I'm a float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.' Daily Mail Australia have reached out to Samantha Armytage for comment. 'I just thought she was a little bit unwell': Samantha Armytage hits back at Kathy Griffin after her combative Sunrise interview with the comedian went viral 'I wasn't applying politics that day I just thought she was a little bit unwell - kooky is one word for it,' Samantha told Mark Latham's Outsiders earlier this month. In August, Kathy was promoting her forthcoming comedy show on Sunrise when Samantha questioned her about Donald Trump. When questioned by the Sunrise host about the famed fake severed head photo, Kathy fired back: 'Youre full of crap. Stop this. You know this. 'Personally I didn't feel that the beheading joke was very funny': Samantha told Outsiders she had felt it was her duty as a journalist to call Kathy out on the photo She added: 'Stop acting like my little picture is more important than talking about the actual atrocities that the President of the United States is committing.' Speaking about the now viral interview, Samantha told Outsiders she had felt it was her duty as a journalist to call Kathy out on the photo. 'Personally I didn't feel that the beheading joke was very funny - Trump or not Trump, I think she thought she could get away with it because everyone hates Donald Trump,' she said. Wasn't biased: Despite her personal opinion, Samantha said it had nothing to do with her line of questioning But despite her personal opinion, Samantha said it had nothing to do with her line of questioning. 'Well she is a ''comedian'',' the Sunrise host said, using air quotes around Kathy's job description. 'I wasn't applying politics that day I just thought she was a little bit unwell - kooky is one word for it.' Kathy Griffin is currently in Australia as part of her Laugh Your Head Off tour, where she will perform one performance only at the Sydney Opera House on Saturday October 21. He's the host of Channel Ten's popular Bachelor franchise. And judging by his latest social media post, Osher Gunsberg is ecstatic that former Today personality Lisa Wilkinson will soon be joining him on the network. Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, the 43-year-old shared a glowing tribute to the popular former morning show host. 'You are an absolute boss. End of story': On Tuesday, Osher Gunsberg (pictured) shared a glowing tribute to Lisa Wilkinson following her shock departure from Today Sharing a photo of Lisa and tagging her in the caption, Osher was succinct in his praise for the journalist. 'You are an absolute boss. End of story,' he gushed alongside the image. Lisa sensationally quit the Today show after a decade, announcing the shock move on Twitter on Monday evening. Her resignation comes after Channel Nine refused to match the salary of her co-host Karl Stefanovic who is reportedly earning around $3 million per year. Nothing but compliments! Osher praised Lisa Wilkinson (pictured) in his Instagram post Shock move! Lisa sensationally quit the Today show after a decade after Channel Nine reportedly refused to match her salary with co-host Karl Stefanovic's (left) Shortly after announcing she would be leaving her high-profile post on Today, Lisa followed up by revealing she had scored a new gig front The Project on Network Ten. Spotted leaving her Cremorne home on Tuesday morning, Lisa broke her silence about her career upheaval, telling reporters she was in good spirits. 'My phone has gone into complete meltdown, but I'm going off to see my mum,' she told The Daily Telegraph. 'She's very worried and I'm just going to go and let her know I'm OK, in fact I'm more than OK, I'm great.' 'I've always been a very hard worker, and I've always been very proud of my work and I've loved every single job I've ever had.' 'I'm more than OK, I'm great': Spotted outside her Cremorne home on Tuesday, Lisa told The Daily Telegraph she was in high spirits Osher has also recently resigned a job in a dramatic fashion, leaving behind his Brisbane's Hit105 radio gig in order to take on hosting duties of new reality spin-off Bachelor in Paradise. Hosting the radio show alongside Stav Davidson, Abby Coleman and Matt Acton earlier this month, Osher played an emotional song for the trio to declare he was leaving. 'I'm leaving Brisbane, I got too busy making TV,' Osher sang while strumming a guitar. 'I tried to make it, my schedule couldn't take it, plus they offered me some more money.' Lisa Wilkinson will join Network Ten's The Project after an alleged pay dispute saw the journalist abruptly depart Channel Nine's Today show. And now The Project's Carrie Bickmore has become the first of Lisa's new colleagues to openly welcome the media personality to panel. Taking to Instagram, the 36-year-old TV host said: 'Can't wait to see your beaming face on @theprojecttv soon.' Scroll down for video 'Can't wait to see your beaming face soon!' The Project's Carrie Bickmore welcomes Lisa Wilkinson to the panel after the TV journalist jumps ship from Nine's Today to join rival Network Ten Lisa will join the likes of hosts Carrie, Waleed Aly and Peter Helliar on the popular current affairs show in January 2018. Carrie uploaded a candid selfie with Lisa and Waleed in high spirits as she praised Lisa for how she dealt with her abrupt departure from Nine. 'All class Lisa @lisa_wilkinson. Congrats on an incredible stint at Today babe. Hope you enjoyed your sleep in,' she said. The mother-of-two also gushed about her new co-host's positive qualities, using the hashtags 'smart', 'funny' and 'genuine'. New role! Lisa will join the likes of hosts Carrie, Waleed Aly and Peter Helliar on the popular current affairs show in January 2018 While fans are wondering whether Lisa might 'replace' one of the current hosts, a spokesperson at Channel Ten told Daily Mail Australia on Tuesday that this is not the case. 'Lisa will join the hosting team of The Project. Her role at Ten will include hosting The Sunday Project,' a statement read. 'She is NOT replacing Carrie, Waleed or Pete. To suggest she is would be total nonsense. New gig: While fans are wondering whether Lisa might 'replace' one of the current hosts, a spokesperson at Channel Ten told Daily Mail Australia on Tuesday that this is not the case The statement continued: 'Further collaborations between Ten and Lisa will be announced in the coming months.' Lisa made the announcement she was leaving Today via Twitter on Monday night, revealing her decade of service on the show had come to an abrupt end. False: 'She is NOT replacing Carrie, Waleed or Pete. To suggest she is would be total nonsense,' a Ten spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia 'Absolutely thrilled': Lisa revealed she was 'thrilled' to be jumping ship to rivals Network Ten, where she will join The Project in 2018 An official statement from the Nine Network said it was 'unable to meet the expectations' of Lisa after it was alleged she demanded equal pay with co-host Karl Stefanovic. 'I have some sad news. I'm sad to say that today was my last day on the Today show,' she wrote of her shock announcement on Monday. The mother-of-three also revealed she was 'absolutely thrilled' to be jumping ship to rivals Network Ten. Changing face of Today: Lisa appears to have been temporarily replaced by Deborah Knight in the interim of an official and more permanent replacement Lisa appears to have been temporarily replaced by Deborah Knight in the interim of an official and more permanent replacement. Georgia Gardner and Chris Bath are both hotly tipped to take over the Today co-host hot seat. Meanwhile, former co-host Karl Stefanovic made a bizarre tribute to his long-standing colleague by focusing on Lisa's ability to complete chores before work rather than her lengthy career achievements. 'For 10 years Lisa has dragged herself out of bed at 3.30 in morning, fed the dogs and cats, put a load of washing on and came into work and sat on my left to inform you at home to what's happening in the world,' Karl said on Tuesday morning. 'For 10 years Lisa has dragged herself out of bed at 3.30 in morning, fed the dogs and cats, put a load of washing on': Former co-host Karl Stefanovic bizarrely led his tribute to Lisa by recognising his former co-host's ability to do chores before work and not her career highlights Tuesday morning, Tiffany Miller O'Brien drove down to Good Earth Market Co-op in downtown Billings and began pulling her custom-made clothing from the store. She was able to keep her composure nearly the whole time. But back in the car, loaded with merchandise, and sitting with her young daughter, she broke down. "It was emotional," she said. "It was an ugly cry." Like many of the co-op's loyal customers and vendors, O'Brien got word Monday night that Good Earth would likely close at the end of the month. It broke O'Brien's heart. "My girls have grown up there," she said. The co-op first opened in June 1994 as a tiny store in a downtown residential neighborhood. At the time, it was one of the area's only options for organic and locally produced groceries. Since that time, it's expanded to its current location at 3024 Second Ave. N. and includes a large grocery store, specialty items, local goods and wares, a deli and juice bar, and a lunch spot. Monday night, the co-op's board of directors held a special meeting to discuss the issue. The board decided to begin the process of closing, which will require a two-thirds vote from all members to dissolve the cooperative. That meeting will be held at Good Earth Market at 6 p.m. on Oct. 26. "We've had challenges for years," said Kevin Dowling, the board's vice president. "We've been losing customers." Sales at the Good Earth Market have been in decline as more natural and organic grocer competition has moved into Billings. Dowling noted that in the last few years, major retailers like Costco and Wal-Mart have started selling many of the products Good Earth had carried for years. And then specialty stores like Lucky's and Natural Grocers came to town, making a deeper dent in the co-op's sales and peeling off customers. "We don't really have the same marketing budget," Dowling ruefully said. Last year, in an effort to boost revenue and increase membership, the co-op remodeled and updated its deli. It debuted in February. The upgrade included a new menu with more lunch, snack and drink options. The $100,000 upgrade came by way of a grant from the National Co-op Grocers, an industry trade group. Dowling believes Billings is a town that could support a cooperative grocery store and produce market. "Under the right circumstances a co-op could make a go," he said. As he grappled on Tuesday with the realities that have brought about the potential closure of Good Earth Market, he acknowledged he didn't know what those circumstances would be. Should the membership vote to dissolve the co-op, Good Earth would then begin the process of shutting it down and paying off its debts. If they find they can't pay all the outstanding debts, the board of directors would then look at bankruptcy options. Good Earth leases the building on Second Avenue North. Dowling said they would have to look at the contract to see how the lease would be terminated. For Dowling it's not just the loss of the store, but the dissolution of the community that gathered around it. The co-op faithful were part of a tight-knit group that kept close. It was the loss of that community that O'Brien was struggling with on Tuesday. "It's kind of scary and sad," she said. "They've been around for so long." O'Brien has been selling her custom-printed shirts and clothing at Good Earth for more than six years. She was there nearly every day with her two daughters. She sees the loss of the co-op as a genuine blow to downtown Billings. She hears so much about the desire to buy local and to support independent retailers she almost believed it. "And then this happens," she said. Shannon Beador seemed happier than ever last year after patching up her marriage woes and renewing her wedding vows with husband David on her Bravo reality show. The 53-year-old reality star on Monday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Orange County however broke down in tears as she admitted her marriage has once again fallen apart so badly they now live as 'roommates.' Shannon revealed the constant fights make her 'sad' and 'lonely' and also constantly make her remember David's affair that almost ended their marriage. Marriage woes: Shannon Beador confided in Tamra Judge that her marriage was falling apart on Monday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Orange County 'A lot of the time I get sad,' she said to camera, tears running down her face. 'I'm just devastated of the state that we're in right now. I just thought we were in a place that we could never go back. 'And now, we're just roommates.' Ironically, Shannon's confession came after she had tried to defend David against claims that he grilled Peggy Sulahian's husband Diko over whether or not Peggy had cancer. Cancer talk: Peggy Sulahian confronted Shannon for ignoring her after her husband David was asking about her cancer Dinner drama: Shannon took offense when Peggy asked if her husband had ever lied to her Psychic meeting: Megan King Edmonds invited the ladies over to meet her psychic Mystic Michaela It sparked a screaming match at a party, especially after Peggy asked Shannon: 'Do you trust your husband? Has he ever lied to you about anything else?' 'Today, do I trust my husband? Yes I do! Yes I do!' Shannon said, finally leaving the table in tears and then leaving Peggy walking away from the party in tears after they had a one-on-one about it, with Shannon highly agitated as she screamed 'I'm calm! I'm calm!' Shannon's closest friend in the group, Tamra Judge, called Shannon to visit her at her home the next day where she told her she was 'concerned' about her, insisting 'It just breaks my heart to see you like this.' Major revelation: Shannon admitted that she's been 'sad' and 'lonely' in her marriage Shannon then admitted that she was 'humiliated' at her party outburst and saw it as a 'turning point,' making her realize that the devastation she felt over her marriage could not ruin the rest of her life. 'I can't have a relationship be the focus of my happiness,' she tearfully told Tamra. 'And I kind of have lost track of myself through this. Either the relationship is going to improve, or the relationship isn't. But I can't let it affect my happiness.' She then told her: 'I've been having some issues with David and I'm not looking for pity, I'm not trying to throw a pity party for myself, and I'm not trying to play the victim. I'm just sad. Getting emotional: The mother of three wiped away tears while telling Tamra about her marriage 'Things are so detached right now, it makes me think about the affair more. 'I know last year I was saying ''I'm over it!'' because I was in such a good place with David. I just feel sad and lonely.' Sympathetic ear: Tamra listened sympathetically as Shannon confided in her Tamra started the chat with some good news for her, having had an invite from her estranged daughter Sydney, 18, who she had not seen in three years, to her graduation. 'I've always known that she's gonna come back one day,' she said through tears of her own. 'I gave it up to God I knew that He was going to do it on His time. 'To see her grow up and take the next step in her life means the world to me.' Good news: The conversation started with the good news that Tamra had been invited to her estranged daughter Sydney's graduation Shannon told her friend: 'God has a plan for all of us. Sometimes you have to go through a lot of pain to get to the plan.' Tamra then insisted that was exactly the case with Shannon's own situation, telling her: 'I know you're going through a lot of s***. But Sometimes you got to go through the s*** to get to the other side. And when you get through this s***, it's going to be golden, I promise you.' The episode also saw Lydia McLaughlin planning a trip for the girls to Iceland for a review for her new magazine even though the publication is 'geared to men' and wanting to invite them all despite their feuds. Girls trip: Lydia McLaughlin invited all the ladies to a trip to Iceland 'Call me optimistic or call me crazy, but I have high hopes that Iceland is an opportunity for all of us just to be girls and be friends,' she said to camera. 'And maybe we'll actually have a fun time all together.' Tamra's face fell when Vicki and Kelly were invited by phone, saying later: 'The last time I saw Vicki didn't go well. But now I'm going to Iceland with Vicki Yay. woo hoo,' she added with obvious sarcasm. Vicki's face also fell, telling Kelly who was excited about the trip that she was 'crabby' because of 'the company we're going with.' Together again: Vicki Gunvalson and Kelly Dodd skipped the psychic and spent time together After surgery: Kelly showed Vicki her breasts after having reduction surgery Peggy was shown packing and asking husband Diko to fit in her suitcase so she could take him with her. 'I'm very nervous I've never traveled without my family and I've never been on a girls' trip in my life,' she said. 'I think it's going to be a great experience to go to Iceland, but without Diko it's going to be a problem. Packing up: Peggy tried to pack up her husband Diko for the trip to Iceland 'Twenty-two years I've had Diko by my side, holding my luggage who's going to carry my luggages?', Peggy said. As she packed she told her family: 'I'm excited to go, but I'm not excited to be with Shannon. Shannon doesn't like me. 'I know Shannon has issues with me she has issues with everyone but I wanna have fun.' The women were shown arriving at the airport and getting on the plane managing to spill champagne even before takeoff with Meghan King Edmonds bringing her baby daughter Aspen with her because she is breastfeeding. On arrival: Meghan brought her baby daughter Aspen on the trip 'Girls trip has come to a whole new level!' Vicki Gunvalson joked. Lydia's husband, meanwhile, thought his wife was missing the point of the trip, telling her as she packed: 'You're there to work. You're there to write me a magazine article, not to party.' Earlier ,Vicki had seen her cardiologist and got alarming news when her doctor told her: 'Some of the results are back and I don't like it. Your EKG's abnormal and you do have an extra heart sound. It seems like you have a block and we have to figure out what's causing it.' Alarming news: Vicki was told she had an extra heart sound and maybe enlarged chambers 'The whole, ''Your mother's dead'' phonecall was the worst day of my life,' said Vicki, who was also told her heart could have enlarged chambers. 'If I can prevent that from happening to Michael and Briana, I'm going to do it. If I'm not here I know it will leave a very, very big void, and I need to stay healthy for them,' she said of her two children. 'Life is short. I want to be happy,' she added. Auto racing's most famed family is about to expand by one. Dale Earnhardt Jr. took to Instagram on Monday to share the news of their expanding clan, accompanied by an adorable shot of pink baby Converse sneakers. 'Excited to share the wonderful news that Amy and I are expecting our first child,' the 42-year-old race car driver said. 'A little girl!!!! We are both thrilled and cant wait to meet her.' Scroll below for video Happy time: Dale Earnhardt Jr., 42, announced on Monday that he and his wife Amy, 35, are expecting a baby girl The NASCAR motorist and the 35-year-old stunner tied the knot in his native North Carolina on New Years Eve 2016 at Lexington's Childress Vineyards, which belongs to Earnhardt's racing colleague Richard Childress. Amy tweeted on New Year's Day she and Dale 'are beginning 2017 as Mr. & Mrs.! 'Thank you for loving me and making me your wife,' she wrote. 'My heart is truly filled with love and joy.' The two-time Daytona 500 winner and Amy first met in 2009 when he hired her to help design his Mooresville, North Carolina home, at which time the duo began dating. Romantic: Amy shared this stunning wedding shot the couple posed for at their nuptials Glam: The duo posed last December at a NASCAR event in Las Vegas They subsequently got engaged in June of 2015 at Illesheim, Germany's Lutheran Church. Amy, in a 2015 podcast on Dale's website, described the romantic proposal she received from the famed driver. 'Im standing at the altar: I turned around and Dales just staring at me with this really odd look on his face,' she recalled. 'I had never seen the expression he had. And he says, "Amy?" Im like, "Yes." Then he starts telling me how much he loves me and everything. In his element: Dale Jr. was snapped on Sunday as he participated in the NASCAR Cup Series auto race in Talladega, Alabama Fan favorite: The star driver signed autographs for fans at the event 'He goes through his speech and gets down on one knee.' Amy said she was in 'complete shock' as he popped the question, and 'for the next three hours, [she] was shaking' and 'just couldnt get it together.' Dale subsequently told The Sporting News, 'She was blown away. She certainly didnt have an idea that that was going to happen, I dont think.' Happy: Amy beamed toward her husband during a NASCAR event in Daytona Beach, Florida in July Earlier this year, the couple announced they would be taking their talents to the tube for a DIY Network series about home re-modelings. Dale said in a statement, 'Amy and I are excited to take on our first home renovation project together,' calling his wife 'a fantastic designer' who 'has creative ideas and a strong work ethic. 'We love DIY projects around the house, and so I expect this to be challenging but fun.' Amy took to Twitter, writing, 'Cant wait to flex those design muscles & make this house shine!' They are nearing the end of popular renovation show The Block and are hotly tipped to win the series. And Elyse Knowles and her beau Josh Barker took a well-deserved break on Monday at a Melbourne beach. The 25-year-old model showed off her stunning figure in a bikini during the outing. From Blockhead to bikini babe! Elyse Knowles shows off her incredible figure in a skimpy swimsuit as she hits the beach with beau Josh ahead of renovation show's auction finale Looking hot, hot, hot: The slender beauty flaunted her tanned and toned physique in a tiger print bikini top teamed with orange bottoms, while Josh donned a pair of board shorts Josh and Elyse were seen soaking up the sun while their beloved pet pooch ran around the sand. Elyse soon got up and went for a walk, throwing a stick for her dog to fetch in the ocean. The slender beauty flaunted her tanned and toned physique in a tiger print bikini top teamed with orange bottoms, while Josh donned a pair of board shorts. Puppy love: Josh and Elyse were seen soaking up the sun while their beloved pet pooch ran around the sand Later the pair slipped on near-matching white tops as they headed home. Elyse also donned a ripped denim skirt that showcased her slender pins. The couple certainly have a busy few weeks ahead of them thanks to their property portfolio. Ahead of the Block finale, Elyse and Josh recently put their very own bungalow on the market for $1.45m. Not an inch to pinch: Elyse looked flawless in her mismatched bikini as she spent quality time with her partner and pooch Quick adjustment: Elyse adjusted her bikini top as she jogged around the sand Feeling sleepy: Meanwhile Josh appeared to be enjoying a well-deserved nap Dog's day out: The couple's pet pooch was clearly having a ball as dog and owner played stick Simple accessories: The model shielded her face from the sun with designer sunnies and a baseball cap Muscular: Elyse also showed off her toned arms in her two-piece bikini According to Domain, the loved-up duo are set to sell their renovated Coburg bungalow in Victoria in November via auction. With two auctions scheduled for Josh and Elyse over the next five weeks, they revealed while they're nervous about both outcomes, it's their Coburg property which is front of mind. 'It's probably more stressful going through that auction than it is The Block because it's our own money and our own blood, sweat and tears over 18 months to 2 years,' Josh explained. Time to tan: The statuesque reality star was working up a tan during the hot Melbourne day Beach bums: The couple looked completely relaxed ahead of the upcoming Block finale Elyse added: 'We lived in the old shack, showered outside, we cooked on the barbecue. 'Every wall was a different wall paper, the bathrooms were every colour under the sun it was a very interesting time.' As both properties are expected to go to new owners, Josh and Elyse are keen to get their hands on a third renovation property soon. Much to talk about: The loved-up pair were seen chatting away as they laid out on the beach Spot of reading: They also caught up on some light reading Loved up: The genetically-blessed duo have been dating for over five years Josh said they were ready to capitalise on the skills and experience they've gained on The Block and have their sights set on a suburb in Melbourne's leafy east. This past weekend, potential buyers and investors inspected the Regent Street, Elsternwick homes as seen on The Block. As the Blockheads eagerly await the auction date set for Saturday 28th October, experts suggested buyers should be prepared to spend up to $3 million on the renovated abodes. Home time: Elyse and Josh walked arm in arm as they left the beach Matchy matchy: The pair wore similar printed T-shirts for the walk home and Elyse showed off her slender legs in a ripped denim skirt Meanwhile, Elyse and Josh recently revealed who their biggest rivals were ahead of the show's auction. 'Jason and Sarah,' Josh told OK! magazine. She has honed a shapely physique through years of dedicated practice on the dance floor. And busty Jenna Dewan flaunted her fabulous form to the maximum after stepping out in an eye-popping vest as she went shopping in Los Angeles on Monday. But Mrs Channing Tatum had brought along a handy little helper as she stocked up on party supplies, their adorable four-year-old daughter Everly. Looking spree-mendous: Jenna Dewan went shopping with daughter Everly in LA on Monday The 36-year-old actress was looking in fine form indeed as she pranced around in her revealing white top, which she twinned with black jeans and trendy leather shoes. And it seems the Slightly Single in LA favourite was making some preparations ahead of Halloween, as she was stocking up at a party supplies shop. One reason Jenna has such a fabulous physique is her work as a dancer, and she returned to her roots when she grooved with old boss Janet Jackson on stage in Hollywood last week. She began her career as a backup dancer for the Pleasure Principle star and later worked as a sidekick for the likes of Pink, Missy Elliott, and Christina Aguilera. Simply the bust: The beauty showcased her perky chest by wearing a tight top Legging it: She showcased her stunning stalks in a pair of very tight jeans Vest-ed interest: The chesty actress and dancer was certainly turning heads Mummy's little helper: Her little girl looked like she was relishing every moment of their outing Sharing a snap from her big moment at the Hollywood Bowl on Instagram, she said: 'Last night was such an incredible moment. 'Janet asked her "kids" to come back and perform rhythm nation at the Hollywood Bowl. ;I dreamt of dancing with her since I was a kid and literally pinched myself every night of the All for You tour. And here I am pinching myself again last night. 'She created a legacy for her dancers and she personally began my career! It all begins with Jan. Thank you for this my love!!!' Shady lady: She completed her look with a trendy pair of tinted sunglasses Party on dude: She was stocking up on supplies in the run-up to Halloween Bag lady: She certainly added a touch of glamour to her brown paper carriers They both know what it feels like to be shafted from the network they've worked so hard for. And now that they're no longer rivals, 'axed' Sunrise host Melissa Doyle and Today show defector Lisa Wilkinson can finally rekindle their friendship. Melissa, who was also subsequently dropped from her new role hosting the network's afternoon news, put the call out via Twitter on Tuesday. 'We can go to dinner now!' Axed Sunrise host Melissa Doyle invites Lisa Wilkinson to rekindle their friendship now that they're no longer embroiled in a breakfast TV rivalry 'Hey we can do dinner now @Lisa_Wilkinson Congratulations! Enjoy sleeping in x,' she wrote after Lisa announced her shock resignation from Today on Monday. Reported to be angry over Nine's refusal to pay her the same as co-host Karl Stefanovic, Lisa packed-up and move to Ten's The Project. Melissa sadly wasn't afforded the same demand, after reports emerged that her surprise 'promotion' from Sunrise host to afternoon news was non-negotiable. She broke down upon announcing her exit from Sunrise live on-air back in 2013, with viewers understanding her tears were more sentimental than sullen. Let's do dinner! 'Hey we can do dinner now @Lisa_Wilkinson Congratulations! Enjoy sleeping in x,' she wrote, after Lisa announced her shock resignation from Today on Monday But following the departure, Fairfax claimed Channel Seven executives had been 'plotting' her axing for weeks. According to the publication, Melissa was allegedly told to step down from Sunrise, take a reduced salary and claim she got 'promoted' to news presenting. But the network denies claims saying her 'new agreement with the network was done months before the announcement'. 'Mel was offered a prime time news gig because her talents in reporting live on big news events here, around the world in the past year alone (Bali anniversary, Obama inauguration, new Pope, floods) were recognised,' a spokesperson stated. 'But it was her choice to take the gig. She could have happily stayed with Sunrise. She decided it was time and the announcement was made on her terms. 'Mel's new agreement with the network was done months before the announcement [a fortnight ago]. She talked at length about this to all journalists shortly after the announcement, even going into specifics about how the negotiation played out.' Non-negotiable! Melissa sadly wasn't afforded the same demand as Lisa in 2013 when she was 'axed' from Sunrise According to the publication, Seven's reasoning was down to 'research' that claimed she wasn't as popular as co-host David Koch, or - at the time - Lisa and Karl Stefanovic. Three years later, Melissa was dumped again, this time from her Seven weekend news hosting gig. Lisa technically left the Today show on her own terms, although reports have claimed she was frustrated that the network refused to give her pay parity with Karl. She recently claimed celebrity life is far from glamorous. But Margot Robbie certainly looked glam as she attended Elle Magazine's 24th Annual Women in Hollywood celebration on Monday in Los Angeles. The 27-year-old stunned in a long black dress that flaunted her tiny waist thanks to strategically placed cut-outs at the sides. A beauty in black! Margot Robbie showcases her cleavage and tiny waist in racy cut-out dress as she attends Women in Hollywood bash in Los Angeles on Monday night Flashing the flesh: The Australian star's dress was backless and hugged her slender frame with spaghetti straps that extended around her body The Wolf Of Wall Street star smiled as she walked the red carpet at the event, which celebrates and recognises the contributions female Hollywood stars are making to the film industry. Margot's shoulder-length blonde locks fell effortlessly around her shoulders and she wore minimal makeup on her flawless complexion. The Australian star's frock was backless and hugged her slender frame with spaghetti straps that extended around her body. Margot accessorised with a shiny silver bangle on her right wrist and a pair of jet black stiletto heels on her feet. She turned to her side to let photographers get her best angle as she stood in front of the white promotional Loreal Paris background. Natural beauty: Margot's shoulder-length blonde locks fell effortlessly around her shoulders and she wore minimal makeup on her flawless complexion Margot recently spoke out against the common misconception that celebrity life is 'glamorous', saying that she 'wish it were true.' Meanwhile, it was also revealed on Monday that Margot secretly wed her husband and former roommate Tom Ackerley last year in a private ceremony in Byron Bay. The couple began dating after meeting each other on the set of Suite Francaise in 2015. With auction day just around the corner, The Block contestants were pulling out all stops to put the finishing touches on their renovations. And on Tuesday night, a $5000 cash prize was an added incentive for one lucky team to fix up the defects in their houses before handing over the keys. The show's youngest couple, Josh and Elyse, managed to win the cash thanks to their immaculate finishes but it wasn't long before their envious competitors accused them of cheating. Scroll down for video Unfair advantage? The Block's Elyse (left) and Josh (right) won $5000 on Tuesday's episode but were soon accused of cheating by their rivals The couple had enjoyed help from Elyse's mum throughout the competition, who had brought over food for the duo as well as assisting with chores like vacuuming and doing loads of washing. This didn't bode well with some of the teams, and they were quick to call out Josh and Elyse behind their backs. 'I think it's cheating. I think the fact Elyse has her mum there cooking, cleaning, washing... unless she's getting paid, which I highly doubt it,' Georgia complained. 'If they want to play fair like they're always talking about, that's definitely not playing fair.' 'I think it's cheating': Rival Georgia (pictured) slammed the couple for letting Elyse's mum come to The Block to help out with cooking and cleaning which she saw as unfair Sarah, who along with husband Jason were forced to tackle a lengthy list of more than 100 defects, echoed the sentiment. After Josh and Elyse nabbed the win for the week - as well as the cash prize - Sarah threw some shade at the young duo. Speaking to the camera, she said: 'We know that Josh and Elyse have a big network and they do have a lot of extra help so that does sort of weigh in their favour.' 'They do have a lot of extra help so that does sort of weigh in their favour': Sarah (pictured) also thought the assistance afforded to Josh and Elyse was unfair 'Unfortunately we don't have our mums over here cleaning our houses and making it look in tip-top shape': Ronnie (left) joined the chorus of contestants taking a swipe at the couple Also not particularly pleased was Ronnie, who is competing alongside his wife Georgia. 'Unfortunately we don't have our mums over here cleaning our houses and making it look in tip-top shape but that's alright, we'll get there,' he said. However, Josh and Elyse credited themselves as putting some elbow grease in as the reason behind the win. 'Hard work pays off. Hard work never killed anyone. It nearly killed us last night, we didn't sleep but the house looks pretty good,' Josh explained. It's one of the nation's most successful TV networks which has battled its fair share of controversies. And Lisa Wilkinson's shock departure from Today is only the latest in a long string of scandals involving female Channel Nine journalists, some of whom were lectured about their 'f***ability' or joked about getting 'boned' by senior male staff. In light of the network's latest episode, Daily Mail Australia looks at other female staff who have had less than stellar experiences at Nine. Scroll down for video From lectures on 'f***ability' to getting 'boned': How Channel Nine has treated female journalists as Lisa Wilkinson quits Today over pay disparity with Karl Stefanovic Jessica Rowe Jessica joined Channel Nine in 2006, lasting just a year as co-host of Today alongside Karl Stefanovic. During her short tenure at the reporter was met with a barrage of criticism from the public and within the network. In a sworn affidavit, Nine's former head of news Mark Llewellyn claimed then Channel Nine chief executive Eddie McGuire had joked about 'boning' Jessica in a meeting with other executives, The Sydney Morning Herald reported. 'That year was a terrible time in my life': Jessica revealed she still feels 'so terribly upset' by Eddie's comments A mental health advocate and popular host of Studio 10, in 2016 Jessica revealed she still feels 'so terribly upset' by Eddie's comments. 'That year was a terrible time in my life and it was not helped by public abuse, abuse from within the network that I worked at and abuse from someone who was in charge of that particular network,' she told Studio 10's audience. 'It was horrific and it pre-empted then a very dark period in my life ... A whole lot of factors contributed to be a perfect storm during that and it just makes me terribly sad.' Controversial: Nine's former head of news Mark Llewellyn claimed then Channel Nine chief executive Eddie Murphy had joked about 'boning' Jessica Only lasted a year: Mia had found the environment 'toxic', with 'almost immediate resistance to her suggestions about softening the blokey culture' Mia Freedman Mia Freedman was brought on as creative services director in 2006, lasting just 12 months before quitting the network. News Corp reported at the time that Mia, who had been brought on to provide more female content at Nine, found the environment 'toxic', with 'almost immediate resistance to her suggestions about softening the blokey culture'. In a 2015 interview with Show + Tell, Mia described her time at Nine as 'the worst professional experience of my life'. She had struggled to settle into the network due to her role not being clearly defined, with her only instructions to make Nine more appealing to women. Settled: In 2008 former Los Angeles correspondent Christine Spiteri was awarded a six-figure settled after bring a sex discrimination case against Channel Nine Christine Spiteri In 2008 former Los Angeles correspondent Christine Spiteri was awarded a six-figure settled after bring a sex discrimination case against Channel Nine. The reporter alleged various attempts had been made to move her from the role before she was sacked in 2007. Among evidence Christine presented in court was being lectured about her sex appeal, Fairfax Media reported at the time. She alleged Nine's news director John Westacott told her and other female reporters: 'To make it in this industry, you gotta have f***ability. To make it in this game, women have to be f***able.' Talks broke down: In a episode which has echoes of Lisa Wilkinson's departure a decade later, Jana abruptly left the network in 2006 Jana Wendt One of Channel Nine's most successful reporters Jana Wendt fronted everything from A Current Affair to 60 Minutes. But in a episode which has echoes of Lisa Wilkinson's departure a decade later, Jana abruptly left the network in 2006. Reports at the time said the veteran journalist had been 'in discussions' for a new role before talks broke down, The Sydney Morning Herald claimed. She was allegedly 'paid out' by the network, who were believed to be giving her a yearly contract worth 'hundreds of thousands' at the time. Said she wasn't 'drop dead gorgeous': Nine news and current affairs boss Peter Meakin had criticised her looks while she was working at the network Ellen Fanning Like Jana, Ellen Fanning was a star reporter at Channel Nine who also hosted their current affairs program Sunday and reported on A Current Affair. A 1999 Fairfax Media profile on Ellen revealed how then Nine news and current affairs boss Peter Meakin had criticised her looks while she was working at the network. Describing her as not being 'drop dead gorgeous, which is a minus to some people in TV', Ellen hit back, sending her boss a 'paper bag with eye-holes cut out'. Quit: Lisa Wilkinson sensationally walked away from Today, with multiple reports suggesting it was because Nine refused to pay her the same as her male co-host, Karl Stefanovic Lisa Wilkinson On Monday, Lisa Wilkinson sensationally walked away from Today, with multiple reports suggesting it was because Nine refused to pay her the same as her male co-host, Karl Stefanovic. The Daily Telegraph reports that Lisa was only being paid $1.2 million while Karl was making between $2 to $3 million. Channel Nine said in a statement: 'Nine today confirmed we have been unable to meet the expectations of Lisa Wilkinson and her manager on a contract renewal for a further period.' She announced she was pregnant on Father's Day earlier this year. And Zoe Marshall was showing off her burgeoning baby bump on Sunday, as she attended a friend's wedding in the Hunter region with husband Benji Marshall. The 33-year-old uploaded a picture to Instagram pictured next to her man dressed in a light-pink figure hugging dress, as she gently clutched her stomach. Scroll down for video 'Lovin' the love': Zoe Marshall was showing off her budding baby bump on Sunday, as she attended a friend's wedding in the Hunter region with husband Benji Marshall 'Lovin' the love,' she captioned. Zoe placed her arm around Benji's shoulder, as the two smiled candidly for the camera. Benji looked dapper in the foreground of the grassy acreage, wearing a full suit and a pair of matching sunglasses. The couple were attending the wedding for their friends at the lavish Wallalong House in New South Wales Hunter region. A special day: The couple were attending the wedding for their friends at the lavish Wallalong House in New South Wales Hunter region What a surprise! Zoe announced her pregnancy on Father's Day earlier this year The NRL WAG hasn't been able to contain her excitement recently, being snapped multiple times in recent days nursing her bulging stomach. She also took to Instagram on Monday to showcase her baby bump as she rocked a green bikini aboard a boat while sailing around Hamilton Island. The 33-year-old was enjoying a lavish babymoon at the resort with Benji as she completes her first trimester. Baby beautiful: Zoe Marshall took to Instagram on Monday to showcase her baby bump as she rocked a green bikini aboard a boat while sailing around Hamilton Island With her arms outstretched above her head, Zoe cut a relaxed figure as she sat aboard the boat and enjoyed the sunshine. The journalist's golden tan was on full display and she looked the picture of content. In another picture, Zoe is seen posing alongside Benji who was wearing matching green shorts. Zoe captioned the post, 'No words. Feeling very grateful.' He was reportedly rushed to hospital this month following a motorbike accident. But Gerard Butler, 47, looked fit and healthy at the world premiere of his new film, Geostorm at Hollywood's TCL Chinese Theatre on Monday. Butler was joined on the red carpet by his co-star in the film, Abbie Cornish, 35, with the pair putting on a cosy display as they prepared to watch the movie. Scroll down for video Loving life: Gerard Butler, 47, looked fit and healthy at the world premiere of his new film, Geostorm at Hollywood's TCL Chinese Theatre on Monday (pictured with Jim Sturgess) The 300 star looked dashing in his olive green suit and matching tie whilst his beard was groomed and his locks were slicked back. Abbie and Butler looked to be good pals sharing some jokes on the red carpet and posing for snaps. The Sucker Punch starlet oozed classic Hollywood glamour in her floor length blue high neck dress with floral patterns. The blonde bombshell wore her straight tresses untied and with a side part. Two's company: Butler was joined on the red carpet by his co-star in the film, Abbie Cornish, 35, with the pair putting on a cosy display as they prepared to watch the movie Dapper: The 300 star looked dashing in his olive green suit and matching tie whilst his beard was groomed and his locks were slicked back Gerard and Abbie pair star alongside each other in Geostorm - which tells the tale of malfunctioning weather satellites that cause the Earth to suffer cataclysmic weather events. Also at the premiere was The Bachelor's Corinne Olympios, who wore a green plaid mini dress with a broad studded belt. Black stilettos boosted her 5'1" frame. The Florida born model wore her wavy, long blonde locks untied and tumbling down to her slender waist. Slinging the blues: Sucker Punch starlet Abbie Cornish, 35, oozed classic Hollywood glamour in her floor length blue high neck dress with floral patterns Apocalypse now: The movie is about malfunctioning weather satellites that cause the Earth to suffer cataclysmic weather events On point: Gerard seemed in excellent spirits following his alleged motorbike incident as he posed up a storm on the red carpet Double trouble: Gerard couldn't contain his excitement as he larked around with Jim on the red carpet, playfully grabbing hold of one another Proud: Gerard looked delighted as he shared a hug with Director Dean Devlin at the premiere Hug it out: The pair shared a bear hug as they entered the theatre together Gerard's outing came after he was reportedly rushed to hospital following a motorbike accident. The movie star was allegedly run off the road by a car while riding his motorbike in Los Angeles and had to be treated for his injuries, with an onlooker calling 911 and paramedics heading to the scene, according to TMZ. However, the star reassured fans that he was fine with an Instagram post after the news broke. Straight out of paradise: Also making a bold statement was The Bachelor's Corinne Olympios, who wore a green plaid mini dress with a broad studded belt Blonde bombshell: The Florida born model wore her wavy, long blonde locks untied and tumbling down to her slender waist The P.S. I love You star shared a photo of himself standing in front of a private jet on Monday morning. He posed with his arms out in the snap, captioning it: 'See you later New York. I love you this much!!' Geostorm will be released by Warner Bros in theaters October 13 Shocking: Gerard's outing came after he was reportedly rushed to hospital following a motorbike accident. The movie star was allegedly run off the road by a car in Los Angeles More than 700 students from schools in and around Billings poured into the MetraPark on Monday to learn about local farming and ranching practices, watch stream erosion simulations and even meet the 2017 American Honey Queen. The three-day learning event, Ag in the Classroom, is hosted each year in Billings as part of the Northern International Livestock Expo taking place this week. Students were delivered by the busload to the 4-H Building, where they rotated stations hosted by experts on range lands, beef production and beekeeping. Bees pollinate one-third of the foods we eat, Honey Queen Maia Jaycox explained to about three dozen fourth-graders seated at her station. As evidence, she gestured to a table packed with bee-related consumables ranging from root beer to almonds, along with plastic sticks filled with 1 teaspoon of honey each a quantity that requires 12 bees to produce, she said. Several students posed several questions to Jaycox, including the unavoidable, Have you ever been stung? She has. A sophomore at Iowa State University, Jaycox noted she was originally afraid of bees, but in part due to her mothers dream of becoming a beekeeper, she began raising her own hives five years ago. She now owns 10 hives, and has taken a semester off to crisscross the country highlighting the importance that honeybees play in the agricultural economy. "I just always thought they were fascinating," Jaycox said, speaking shortly before the first students arrived at the temporary classroom. Before filing out to the next station, students gathered around a cross-section of a beehive to watch the workers in action and catch a glimpse of the queen bee. Nine-year-old Cruz Makin, also of Big Sky, said hes seen beehives before, but was impressed by the queen, substantially larger than the other female bees and emblazoned with a yellow marker to help students identify her. Makin said he was also struck by all the jobs that bees have, from foraging for nectar to building honeycomb and producing propolis, a thick substance used to fill in any gaps or cracks in the hive. For Peighton Moses and Sydney Patterson, both 9-year-old students at Big Sky Elementary School, Jaycoxs display was the first time they had seen bees in their hive. Patterson marveled broad range of foods that bees help support. I learned that honey helps make candy corn and they help make almonds, she said. Its pretty cool, added Moses. At another stop on the tour, Bozeman-based Montana State University Extension Range Management Specialist Jeff Mosley walked students through the various resources that range land helps to provide, from wildlife and native grasses to clean air and water. Does anyone here like to breathe? Mosley asked rhetorically. Two dozen hands shot up. So next time you take a breath, I want you to think about where that oxygen comes from. Through Wednesday, Ag-in-the-Classroom will host more than 1,700 students from more than 30 schools throughout the greater Billings area. Most of those are "city kids," said 4-H program assistant Melody Harris, and they typically come into the educational session with little to no understanding of where food comes from, or the importance of range lands and farming to the region's economy. "Hopefully some of them will decide to carry on that tradition, will be interested in beekeeping, or range land, or helping out with the cattle women, or even becoming farmers themselves," Harris said. "Hopefully they will help to carry on the importance of agriculture in our state." She's one of Australian television's most loved and respected news presenters. But Lee Lin Chin has ruled herself out of the running for Lisa Wilkinson's chair on the Today show, saying Nine Network 'can't afford' her. The SBS newsreader took to Twitter on Tuesday to weigh in on Lisa's departure from Nine, after it was alleged she quit over a pay gap to co-host Karl Stefanovic. Scroll down for videos 'They sure as h*** can't afford me': SBS presenter Lee Lin Chin weighs in on Lisa Wilkinson's departure from Nine 'Don't worry, I won't be joining @TheTodayShow,' she wrote in her tweet. 'If they can't afford Lisa, then they sure as hell can't afford me.' The veteran journalist is the latest woman in the media to join a chorus of support for Lisa, 57, after her contract negotiations broke down with Network Nine on Monday. Lisa will join Network Ten's The Project in 2018 alongside Carrie Bickmore, Waleed Aly and Peter Helliar. ABC's 7:30 host Leigh Sales led the charge on Twitter on Monday, paying tribute to Lisa's 'highly competent and warm presence' and telling Nine: 'huge loss for them.' Pay dispute: The SBS newsreader took to Twitter on Tuesday to weigh in on Lisa's departure from Nine, after it was alleged she quit over a pay gap to co-host Karl Stefanovic 'Don't worry, I won't be joining @TheTodayShow': The SBS newsreader took to Twitter on Tuesday to weigh in on Lisa's departure from Nine Support: Lee Lin Chin is the latest woman in the media to join a chorus of support for Lisa, 57, after her contract negotiations broke down with Network Nine on Monday The Project co-host Carrie, shared her excitement at Lisa joining the show, while Sally Obermeder and even NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian weighed-in. Women In Media Australia founder Tracy Spicer didn't hold back, writing: 'On behalf of Women In Media, THANK YOU @Lisa_Wilkinson for taking a stand over equal pay.' The Channel Ten and Sky News veteran described Lisa as a 'role model' for all women in media. The NSW Premier was unrelenting with her opposition to the way Channel Nine dealt with the ordeal. 'If the reason is about equal pay I say good on her... That would be akin to me getting a pay cut because my predecessors weren't female,' she wrote. New era: Lisa will join Network Ten's The Project in 2018 alongside Carrie Bickmore, Waleed Aly and Peter Helliar 'Huge loss for them': ABC's 7:30 host Leigh Sales led the charge on Twitter on Monday, paying tribute to Lisa's 'highly competent and warm prescence' and telling Nine: 'huge loss for them' 'Class act': Upon hearing Monday's news confirming Lisa had quit the Today show - effective immediately - to join Ten's The Project, Sally Obermeder described Lisa as a 'class act' She added: 'I completely appreciate her position if that's the reason and I congratulate her taking that step.' Former Sunrise star Melissa Doyle, who was 'axed' from her hosting gig in 2014, made a tongue-in-cheek reference her breakfast TV rivalry with Lisa. 'Hey we can do dinner now @Lisa_Wilkinson Congratulations! Enjoy sleeping in x,' she wrote, excited that the pair could rekindle their friendship. Upon hearing Monday's news confirming Lisa had quit the Today show effective immediately, Sally Obermeder took to Instagram. '@Lisa_Wilkinson you are a class act through and through,' she wrote, 'congratulations on all that you have achieved. You should be so proud.' 'Good on her': Even NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian weighed-in, claiming Lisa not getting equal pay wo 'akin to me getting a pay cut because my predecessors weren't female 'Thank you!' Tracy Spicer, who founded Women In Media Australia, didn't hold back, writing: 'On behalf of Women In Media, THANK YOU @Lisa_Wilkinson for taking a stand over equal pay' Excited! The Project co-host Carrie Bickmore seemingly shut-down chatter that Lisa's appointment on the show could threaten her own employment Fist bump! Carrie took to Twitter to share her joy about getting such a talented new cast mate, writing: 'Welcome to my lovely friend @lisa_wilkinson' Model Amber Valletta smoldered in sequins during Monday's Golden Heart Awards in New York City. The 43-year-old beauty took the plunge in a glittering black gown that featured plenty of fringe and even more cleavage, courtesy of designer Micheal Kors. The blonde beauty graced the 11th annual gala supporting HIV/AIDS charity God's Love We besides her dapper beau Teddy Charles. Dazzling diva! Model Amber Valletta smoldered in sequins at Monday's Golden Heart Awards in New York City The Phoenix, Arizona native stood out in her multi-textured frock, which was belted in the middle to highlight her hourglass form. Amber, who was a regular on MTV's House Of Style in in the 90s, kept her makeup natural while framing her face with a loose updo. The IMG talent accessorized with sparkling heels, a boxy clutch, and handsome arm candy. Kors truly! The 43-year-old beauty took the plunge in a glittering black gown that featured plenty of fringe and even more cleavage, courtesy of designer Micheal Kors Well accessorized! The mother-of-one's hairstylist beau Teddy Charles joined her on the red carpet, where he looked dapper in a simple suit and buckled dress shoes The mother-of-one's hairstylist beau Teddy Charles joined her on the red carpet, where he looked dapper in a simple suit and buckled dress shoes. He added a unique touch with a knit tie while tying his long tresses back sleekly. Amber and Teddy have been linked since 2014. The model has been married twice before; first to Frenchman Herve Le Bihan from 1994 to 1996 and later to Olympic volleyball player Chip McCaw from 2003 until 2015. Honored guest: During the celebration actor, entrepreneur and philanthropist Gwyneth Paltrow received the Michael Kors Award for Outstanding Community Service During the celebration actor, entrepreneur and philanthropist Gwyneth Paltrow received the Michael Kors Award for Outstanding Community Service. The non-profit God's Love We Deliver's mission is 'to improve the health and well-being of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other serious illnesses by alleviating hunger and malnutrition.' The organization has served over 20million meals during it's 32-year run. They're the adorable Hollywood power couple who have been dating since 2015. But a recent romantic European getaway wasn't enough for Adam DeVine to seal the deal with girlfriend Chloe Bridges, he has revealed. The 33-year-old said on Tuesday that he believed Chloe expected him to propose during their trip in August, but he didn't pick up on the clues. 'I'm too dumb to pick up on any clues': Adam DeVine reveals girlfriend Chloe Bridges had 'grandiose' ideas of a proposal while holidaying in Europe 'I think we had been dating long enough that maybe she thought I was going to propose. I haven't thought about that,' he told Hit 105's Stav, Abby and Matt with Osher. 'I didn't realise I [was] taking her to the most romantic places in the world. I'm taking her to Venice, Paris, and we had honeymoon suites because they're the nicest rooms. 'So I think she was having some grandiose ideas, meanwhile I'm too dumb to pick up on any clues.' Host Osher Gunsberg suggested Adam should propose to Chloe when they visit Australia next year. But the Workaholics star said he is likely to wait a bit longer before popping the question. 'She was having some grandiose ideas': The 33-year-old said on Tuesday that he believed Chloe expected him to propose during their trip in August, but he didn't pick up on the clues Wedding bells? Host Osher Gunsberg suggested Adam should propose to Chloe when they visit Australia next year 'When the time is right': The Workaholics star said he may wait 'four to six' years before he pops the question 'Yeah, I think she is [coming to Australia], but don't put that kind of pressure on me,' he told Osher. 'Maybe I get a pink diamond, I hold onto it for four to six years and when the time is right, I pop the question.' The love birds are set to come Down Under when Adam tours his comedy show Weird Life in 2018. It will be the first comedy show for the star to bring to Australia, with him set to perform in Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Loved up: The love birds are set to come Down Under when Adam tours his comedy show Weird Life in 2018 She is one of the longest-serving Victoria's Angels, having first modeled for the lingerie giant in 2005. And Alessandra Ambrosio proved just why she is one of their front-runners, as she attended ELLE's 24th Annual Women in Hollywood Celebration presented by L'Oreal Paris at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills on Monday. The Brazilian supermodel, 36, showed off her supermodel statistics in a glitzy semi-transparent jumpsuit as she attended the star-studded event. Scroll down for video Oh Ambrosio! Alessandra Ambrosio proved just why she is one of their front-runners, as she attended ELLE's 24th Annual Women in Hollywood Celebration presented by L'Oreal Paris at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills on Monday Channeling her inner Goth, Alessandra slipped into the glitzy jumpsuit, which featured an array of racy sheer panels. The glitter-embellished piece showed off her endless slender pins and enviable waist, offering a glimpse of her killer stilettos under the flared trouser legs. Wearing her hair in a top knot, she showed off her chiseled bone structure underneath minimal make-up, accessorising with a pair of diamond earrings. Top of the knots! The Brazilian supermodel, 36, showed off her supermodel statistics in a glitzy semi-transparent jumpsuit as she attended the star-studded event All that glitters! The glitter-embellished piece showed off her endless slender pins and enviable waist, offering a glimpse of her killer stilettos under the flared trouser legs And it was certainly a star-studded event, with the brunette beauty posing alongside legendary model Cindy Crawford, who looked timeless aged 51 in a monochrome ensemble. The celebration of Hollywood's women coming together came at a particularly apt time, just a week after an influx of abuse and harassment allegations rocked the film industry. More than 30 actresses have come forward over the last two weeks to accuse movie mogul Harvey Weinstein, 65, of sexual harassment and abuse - with four making claims of rape. Empowering women: The celebration of Hollywood's women coming together came at a particularly apt time, just a week after an influx of abuse and harassment allegations against director Harvey Weinstein rocked the film industry Those speaking out about his behaviour include Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Rose McGowan, Cara Delevingne, Kate Beckinsale and Myleene Klass. Stars at the ELLE empowerment event took to the stage to share their own stories of abuse of power. Meanwhile earlier in the day Alessandra was seen keeping her model figure in shape as she went for a workout in sunny Brentwood. Rocking a loose jumpsuit with cut-out panels, the mother-of-two later treated herself to a coffee alongside a pal. The pretty brunette recently opened up about how becoming a mother has changed her physique. Speaking to Net-A-Porter last year, she explained: 'I used to be 100% comfortable on lingerie shoots - then I had a child. 'Somehow it felt a bit weirder to be in lingerie once I was a mum. Model behaviour! It was certainly a star-studded event, with the brunette beauty posing alongside legendary model Cindy Crawford, who looked timeless aged 51 Keeping fit! Earlier in the day Alessandra was seen keeping her model figure in shape as she went for a workout in sunny Brentwood 'Your body will never go back to exactly what it was before pregnancy, whatever people tell you. It can't.' However she went on to admit that having children has only made her more confident with her appearance, as it gave her body a higher purpose in life. 'But I think I have a better body now than before I had kids... it just looks more formed now and I feel better about it than I did.' Chinwag: Rocking a loose jumpsuit with cut-out panels, the mother-of-two later treated herself to a coffee alongside a pal Yummy mummy! The pretty brunette recently opened up about how becoming a mother has changed her physique Alessandra is mother to two children - Anja, nine, and Noah, five - with her fiance Jamie Mazur. The pair have been engaged since 2008, but the model recently admitted the pair were in no rush to tie the knot. 'When I do the wedding it's going to be very special, so I want to take time for that,' the brunette bombshell told Extra. For now, she is focusing on being a mother to her two children - who she recently revealed have given her a new perspective on both life, and the modelling industry. She's the former beauty pageant titleholder that's forged a successful career as a runway and editorial model. And Jesinta Franklin (nee Campbell) showed off her enviable figure to Instagram on Tuesday. The 26-year-old highlighted her cleavage and washboard stomach in Calvin Klein undergarments. Scroll down for video In her Calvins! Jesinta Franklin (nee Campbell), 26, flaunted her cleavage and washboard stomach, in luxury underwear, in snaps shared to Instagram on Tuesday Jesinta drew attention to her ample bust in a plunging grey crop top with striped detailing. Lounging on carpeted ground, the David Jones ambassador also revealed her washboard stomach in coordinating briefs and her husband Lance 'Buddy' Armstrong's lightwash jeans. Jesinta had her locks swept into an effortless topknot and appeared to sport a minimal makeup palette. Svelte: The David Jones ambassador revealed her washboard stomach in coordinating briefs and her husband Lance 'Buddy' Armstrong's lightwash jeans Repping the brand: Another image shared to the starlet's Instagram story, saw Jesinta zooming in on her taut torso. An ambassador for various high-fashion brands, the beauty ensured the camera focused in on Calvin Klein's branding Another image shared to the starlet's Instagram story, saw Jesinta zooming in on her taut torso. An ambassador for various high-fashion brands, the beauty ensured the camera focused in on Calvin Klein's branding. Her toned body scoring her modelling gigs, Jesinta revealed to the Sydney Morning Herald earlier this month, that she still indulges from time to time. Indulgence: Her toned body scoring her modelling gigs, Jesinta revealed to the Sydney Morning Herald earlier this month, that she still indulges from time to time All about balance: 'I do drink, everyone deserves a cheat day,' she said while at the Spring Champion Stakes Day at Sydney's Royal Randwick 'I do drink, everyone deserves a cheat day,' she confessed to the publication at the Spring Champion Stakes Day at Sydney's Royal Randwick. Jesinta added: 'This is the one time when I can have a drink at work.' In addition to her splash of bubbly, the personality also enjoyed Cadbury chocolate, having become the face of Cadbury Dark Milk in a three-month contract. Sweet deal: In addition to her splash of bubbly, Jesinta also enjoyed Cadbury chocolate, having become the face of Cadbury Dark Milk in a three-month contract The brunette wed Lance, 30, in an intimate secret ceremony in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, in November last year. Jesinta stunned in a tulle dress by Vera Wang, while Lance looked dapper in a tailored Hugo Boss suit. Shortly following the wedding, the fitness enthusiast changed her surname to Franklin on her social media pages. It's the latest Marvel film that signals a change in direction for the Thor franchise. And Chris Hemsworth has revealed that co-star Mark Ruffalo had doubts about the comedic shake-up while filming the most recent installment, Thor: Ragnarok. Speaking to 2Day FM's Em Rusciano on Tuesday, the 34-year-old said he had to reassure Mark on several occasions that the franchise needed to be 'reborn'. Scroll down for video 'Are we f****ing things up?': Chris Hemsworth reveals Mark Ruffalo had doubts during filming for Thor: Ragnarok 'The exact line Mark would say is "are we f***ing things up? Are we wrecking this?",' the Thor actor told the radio show host. 'And I'm like "Yes! It needs to be broken and rebuilt, and reborn."' Mark - who plays the Hulk in the film - admitted to being skeptical when Em asked if he was worried they were 'doing the right thing'. 'There were many moments we looked at each other,' the 49-year-old said. He then joked to Chris: 'You never for a moment had a moment of doubt as I was going down the tubes going "is Joaquin [Phoenix] replacing me?"' Reassuring: Speaking to 2Day FM 's Em Rusciano on Tuesday, the 34-year-old said he had to reassure Mark on several occasions that the franchise needed to be 'reborn' 'There were many moments we looked at each other': Mark - who plays the Hulk in the film - admitted to being skeptical when Em asked if he was worried they were 'doing the right thing' In another interview Fitzy and Wippa, the co-stars were asked to weigh in on actor Russell Crowe's claims that one fighting scene inside a coliseum in Thor: Ragnarok had 'already been done' in 2000 film Gladiator. 'Really Russell?' Chris joked, drawing laughter from Mark. 'Were you fighting a big green monster?' Chris joked that Russell was just trying to 'slide his way into a little Marvel role.' 'He can come and do the next one with us': The co-stars were asked to weigh in on actor Russell Crowe's claims that one fighting scene inside a coliseum in Thor: Ragnarok had 'already been done' in 2000 film Gladiator 'He can come and do the next one with us,' Mark said. 'He can try,' Chris replied, before saying that he wanted to see Hulk versus Russell's character in Gladiator Maximus. The pair insisted they were 'joking' after taking a swipe at the famous actor. The film will be the third sequel in the Thor saga, which has been a box-office smash hit since the first hit cinemas in 2011. Thor: Ragnarok also stars Australian star Cate Blanchett and British hunk Idris Elba. The movie will be released in Australia on Thursday October 26. 'He can try': The pair joked further by implying the 53-year-old was not up to their standard He shut down claims he was leaving The Only Way Is Essex last week, insisting he was 'happy and grateful' to be on the show. And true to his word, Tommy Mallett appeared to be in great spirits as he filmed scenes for the ITVBe series on Monday. The 25-year-old grinned as he chatted away to girlfriend Georgia Kousoulou during lunch at a health food cafe in Brentwood, Essex, with their co-stars. Scroll down for video He's going nowhere: Tommy Mallett appeared to be in great spirits as he filmed scenes for the ITVBe series on Monday - after shutting down claims he was quitting Scrubbing up well for the day of filming, Tommy rocked a stylish khaki bomber jacket with jeans and matching trainers. Meanwhile, his long-term love Georgia kept things casual in a black T-shirt that bore the slogan 'sassy' layered under a chic leather jacket. Showcasing her lean legs, she added a pair of skintight grey ripped jeans and added height with black ankle boots with a track sole. Styling her ombre-hued hair in a glossy ponytail, she framed her features with matte pink lipstick and lashings of mascara. Chic: His girlfriend Georgia Kousoulou kept things casual in a black T-shirt that bore the slogan 'sassy' layered under a chic leather jacket Content: The 25-year-old grinned as he chatted away to Georgia during lunch at a health food cafe in Brentwood, Essex, with their co-stars Scrubbing up well: Tommy rocked a stylish khaki bomber jacket with jeans and matching trainers Their outing comes after Tommy, who joined TOWIE four years ago, was hit with claims he had quit the hit ITVBe reality show in a bid to escape the 'ag' and focus on his professional life. The star took to Twitter to deny the reports, saying: 'Just been alerted to today's press. 'I'm currently back filming @OnlyWayIsEssex and am happy / grateful to be doing so right now.' Looking good: Showcasing her lean legs, she added a pair of skintight grey ripped jeans and added height with black ankle boots with a track sole Mane attraction: Styling her ombre-hued hair in a glossy ponytail, she framed her features with matte pink lipstick and lashings of mascara Rumour has it: Their outing comes after Tommy, who joined TOWIE four years ago, was hit with claims he had quit the hit ITVBe reality show in a bid to escape the 'ag' and focus on his professional life His fans were quick to chime in, expressing their delight by posting, 'phew was starting to panic a bit there' and 'So you are not leaving thank goodness you and Georgia are the best x'. Speculation arose he was leaving when the 25-year-old reality star told theDaily Star Sunday: 'I owe a lot to the show and I will always be part of it but its time to concentrate on my businesses. 'Im working two jobs and Im in big important meetings one day and on Towie the next getting ag, swearing and calling someone something too rude to print!' Just hanging out: Georgia was joined by former Love Island star and TOWIE newbie Jon Clark Having a chomp: Chloe Lewis seemed to be enjoying the health food as she tucked into a big mouthful Not impressed? Jon pulled a face of disgust as he tucked into a healthy sandwich Going in for another round: That didn't stop the reality star going back for a second bite The hunky star has recently branched out from the world of reality and is now a fully fledged trainer designer. It was reported that Tommy's girlfriend of three years Georgia wouldn't be following her beau out of the door and will remain on the show. She told the website: 'I joined the show on my own so I will definitely stay. I love filming and I love getting involved.' MailOnline has contacted representatives for Tommy, Georgia and TOWIE for comment. Dapper look: Clark cut a stylish figure in a smart camel coat layered over a black top and jeans Having a whale of a time: He appeared to be in good spirits as he hung out outside in between takes Fisticuffs: Liam 'Gatsby' Blackwell larked around with Tommy as he played photographer with his phone Just throwing some shapes: Tommy gave Gatsby a warm greeting on the day of filming Come here, you! Ever the ladies man, Gatsby leaned in to give Chloe Lewis a kiss on the cheek Nothing to see here: The cast seemed busy on their phones as they relaxed in between filming Instagram-worthy: Tommy, Jon and Liam pulled their best suave looks as the posed for a snap Two's company: Tommy was later seen chatting to Pete Wicks All good: The boys seemed in high spirits as the pair grinned and chatted away Forgiven: The pair have squared up in the past over Megan McKenna but all seemed well between them as they shook hands and chatted together Listen up: Pete seemed deep in thought as Tommy chatted away with him The star has had a rocky time of late on the show after clashing with Megan McKenna and tweeted about his fury to his 313,000 followers last month. He wrote: 'After watching that scene...The only way is Essex can go f**k themselves... That's all I'm saying.' He later wrote: 'Big up Towie.... Little snakes (sic)' He and girlfriend Georgia had come under fire after she made Megan cry by claiming she had 'no friends', and the abuse he received after his remarks has led to him launching a foul-mouthed rant. After he erased his tweet, he quickly followed it up by sharing the quote: 'People are blind to reality and only see what they want to see.' In his jeans: Bobby Norris later arrived in double denim - beaming widely as he showed off his recently enhanced nose Following suit: James 'Arg' Argent later arrived on his motorbike, in a casual black ensemble but with a bright blue helmet on his head Bromance: The pair were seen greeting each other with a high-five as they reunited for filming Boys will be boys: Dan Edgar joined the fray next in a grey hooded jumper, layered beneath a white denim jacket Casual: Teaming his look with skinny jeans and white trainers, Dan was casual and comfortable as he stepped out to his next stint of filming Catching up: Bobby appeared engrossed in conversation as he enjoyed a cup of tea in his Essex stomping ground His sudden death in November 1997 shocked the world. But many close to Michael Hutchence had been concerned about his well being in the months prior to his reported suicide. During The Last Rockstar, a documentary aired on Tuesday night, Michael's close friend Nick Egan claimed the INXS frontman was 'desperate and confused' in the lead up to his death. Scroll down for video 'Desperate and confused': In an interview on The Last Rockstar, Michael Hutchence' close friend Nick Egan revealed the rocker seemed conflicted about his relationship with Paula Yates Nick, a close companion who had designed a number of album covers for INXS, met up with Michael in California prior to his death. The rocker had been spending time in the United States with partner Paula Yates, their baby daughter Tiger Lily, and Paula's children from her marriage to Bob Geldof. However, Nick did not find Michael to be the upbeat spirit he was used to. ''I found out he was on Prozac': Nick met up with Michael in Los Angeles shortly before his death 'For the first time ever he was desperate and confused, and speaking in tongues almost,' Nick revealed in the documentary. Michael also appeared to be conflicted about marrying lover Paula Yates. 'He was going 'I can't marry her, I cant marry her' to the next minute going 'We're going to get married when we get down to Australia'', Nick revealed. Turbulent: Michael and Paula with baby Tiger Lily shortly before his death in November 1997 He also added: 'I found out he was on Prozac... and I said 'You cant drink with it and you certainly cant do cocaine with it'. Echoing similar sentiments in the documentary was fellow friend Peta Wilson, who noticed a change when she saw him before his death. 'The light was going out': Pal Peta Wilson saw Michael for the first time in years shortly before his death (pictured) 'I was really shocked because I hadn't seen him for a couple of years. The light was going out,' Peta claimed. 'He seemed isolated and alone even within company', she added. They are the Insta-famous couple known for their glamorous lifestyle and globe-trotting work schedule. And so it was to be expected that glamour model Pia Muehlenbeck and Kane Vato would become engaged in the most opulent of circumstances. In a new video uploaded to the pair's shared YouTube channel, Kane is seen feverishly preparing to pop the question while Pia modelled in a photo-shoot at iconic French palace of Versailles. The video begins with Kane and his photographer friend Sam Evans discussing their plans for the big day as they enjoy an overnight cruise. 'So it's currently seven ish o'clock in the morning, it's still pitch black outside as you can see and I'm here with Sam. We've woken up super early because we are going to try and brainstorm what to do today for Pia's big day,' he told the camera. Kane revealed that he planned to tell everyone on the cruise about his engagement plans, noting that he would have to make sure Pia was kept out of the loop. Fairy-tale engagement: Pia Muehlenbeck's fiance Kane Vato proposed to her during a photo shoot at Versailles in tear-jerking engagement video uploaded this week Sam then explained that he felt 'honoured' to be involved in the couple's milestone, having been given the job of photographing the moment Kane drops the knee. 'It's handy having friends that are photographers because it's normal for them all to be carrying a big camera around,' Kane mused. Later in the day, Kane and his entourage arrived at the famed palace of Versailles, with Pia none the wiser. Secret mission: During the video, Kane revealed that he planned to tell everyone on the cruise about his engagement plans, noting that he would have to make sure Pia was kept out of the loop 'For some reason there is a strike': His plans were somewhat derailed, however, when they were told they couldn't take photos in the palace due to a public strike His plans were somewhat derailed, however, when they were told they couldn't take photos in the palace due to a public strike. 'For some reason there is a strike. A public service worker's strike happening today and 5.4 million French people are not working and as a result the palace- even though we booked tickets- is not going to let us in,' moaned Kane as Pia grimaced on. Luckily, the group found a lavish staircase for the photo-shoot and surprise engagement- which left Pia in tears of happiness. She said yes! Luckily, the group found a lavish staircase for the photo-shoot and surprise engagement- which left Pia in tears of happiness She's been in Cannes promoting her new film, Cocaine Godmother. And Catherine Zeta-Jones perfectly fused Hollywood glamour with French sophistication as she attended a press conference for her new film in Cannes on Tuesday. Turning heads as she arrived at MIPCOM, the 48-year-old actress was a vision of beauty as she headed into the trade show. Scroll down for video Chic: Catherine Zeta-Jones perfectly fused Hollywood glamour with French sophistication as she attended a press conference for her new film in Cannes on Tuesday Showing off her sensational figure, the brunette bombshell dazzled in a navy bardot dress that clung to her hourglass curves and offered a look at her lean legs. Boosting her frame with a pair of nude patent heels, Catherine kept her accessories simple with a small black clutch bag and oversized shades. The Oscar-winning actress highlighted her flawless features with a neutral make-up palette whilst her glossy locks were styled in loose waves to frame her pretty face. Blue-tiful! Turning heads as she arrived at MIPCOM, the 48-year-old actress was a vision of beauty as she headed into the trade show Leggy lady! Showing off her sensational figure, the brunette bombshell dazzled in a navy bardot dress that clung to her hourglass curves and offered a look at her lean legs Catherine looked a far cry from her next movie role which will see her undergo a make-under to play Griselda Blanco. Blanco was a known drug lord thought to behind an estimate 3,400lbs of cocaine smuggling a month and several murders, including one at the age of just 11, despite only being convicted of three killings. She had moved to the United States from Colombia and ran a drug distribution network - moving from New York to Miami to California, before being deported back to Colombia and being gunned down in 2012. Directed by Pan's Labyrinth cinematographer Guillermo Navarro, Cocaine Godmother is slated for release at some point during 2018, according to IMDb. It's facing down rather stiff competition in the form of yet another forthcoming TV biopic of Griselda, which will star Jennifer Lopez and is being put together by HBO. All about the accessories: Boosting her frame with a pair of nude patent heels, Catherine kept her accessories simple with a small black clutch bag and oversized shades Meanwhile, Catherine, who has been married to actor Michael Douglas for 17 years, recently gave her views on the Harvey Weinstein sexual assault scandal. Talking to the Hollywood Reporter earlier in the day, Catherine said she was not among the actresses allegedly harassed by Weinstein, saying 'No and I'm blessed because it happens to so many women all the time. 'It's hard to think that in 2017 we are still talking about this and that it's the lead story on the international news, but it is right that it is there. It should be the lead story,' she said. Glam: The actress looked sensational as she made her way into MIPCOM to discuss the film 'I hope that the fall from grace that this man has had you're never too big to fail is a lesson to all those who have questioned if this behavior is acceptable.... 'I think the attention is due and I really believe that if this is not the tipping point, it's at least some kind of turning point. The Oscar winner added: 'That big old dinosaur of people who think a man is able to get away with that behavior and has been getting away with it for years, is extinct as of now.' Youthful: The Oscar-winning actress highlighted her flawless features with a neutral make-up palette whilst her glossy locks were styled in loose waves to frame her pretty face Happy: Actor David Mitchell posed in the dazzling sun for the trade showcase in the French Riviera Bright: The Peep Show star kept in a casual in an open blue checked shirt for the event Smart: TV chef Gordon Ramsey was also spotted at the event. The small screen star will star in an ITV documentary on Thursday as part of the channel's Crime and Punishment season He's the Australian Hollywood mega star who is back home to promote his latest film Thor: Ragnarok. And Chris Hemsworth appears to be in a cheeky mood, as he crashed an interview involving the film's director Taika Waititi, 42. Taika was giving an interview on the red carpet at the film's Sydney premiere on Sunday, when the 34-year-old began mocking him behind his back. Scroll down for video The Thor actor then pushed past the Kiwi director and confessed to stealing his lines about the film, Newshub reported. 'Okay here we go - don't stand next to me,' Taika joked with Chris, as the pair laughed. He then took the opportunity to return the favour and interrupt Chris's interview by asking the reporter what his questions are. Taika then made sure Chris was out of the shot, only for his co-star Mark Ruffalo to walk by and begin pushing the director. 'They're bullies, Americans are bullies ... I am the boss.' Taika said. Teasing the boss: A cheeky Chris Hemsworth drops in on Thor: Ragnarok director Taika Waititi as he tries to give an interview Cheeky: Taika was giving an interview on the red carpet at the film's Sydney premiere on Sunday, when the 34-year-old began mocking him behind his back Taika told Newshub that Thor: Ragnarok will include jokes only Kiwis and Australians will understand, as more comedy works its way into the franchise. The creative freedom allowed to Taika surprised both the director and Mark, he explained. 'There was a day when Ruffalo came up to me and goes "How come we haven't been fired yet? Why are they letting us do this?",' he said. Speaking to 2Day FM's Em Rusciano on Tuesday, Chris revealed he had to reassure Mark on several occasions that the franchise needed to be 'reborn'. Ganging up: Taika then made sure Chris was out of the shot, only for his co-star Mark Ruffalo to walk by and begin pushing the director 'Are we f****ing things up?': Chris revealed he had to reassure Mark on several occasions that the franchise needed to be 'reborn' 'The exact line Mark would say is "are we f***ing things up? Are we wrecking this?",' the Thor actor told the radio show host. 'And I'm like "Yes! It needs to be broken and rebuilt, and reborn."' Mark - who plays the Hulk in the film - admitted to being skeptical when Em asked if he was worried they were 'doing the right thing'. 'There were many moments we looked at each other,' the 49-year-old said. He then joked to Chris: 'You never for a moment had a moment of doubt as I was going down the tubes going "is Joaquin [Phoenix] replacing me?"' Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Aliona Kavanagh is taking legal action against Johnny Ball, after he accused her of faking an injury during their time on the show. Speaking to The Sun on Sunday last week, the TV personality, 79, claimed the dancer pretended to fracture her ankle so she could go on holiday, and that his new partner choreographed far more difficult routines, as part of a 'fix' to have him eliminated. Aliona, nee Vilani, has since taken to Twitter to 'strongly deny' the allegations, and confirm she is taking 'legal action' against her former partner. Scroll down for video At war: Former Strictly professional Aliona Kavanagh is taking legal action against Johnny Ball, after he accused her of faking an injury during their time on the show The 33-year-old dancer wrote to her followers on Tuesday: 'I am aware that Johnny Ball has made allegations regarding my fractured ankle during 2012 SCD, which I strongly deny. 'I have instructed solicitors and am taking legal advice in relation to his allegations. It's therefore not appropriate to comment further at this time.' Aliona and Johnny were partnered together on the tenth series of the show in 2012, but the professional was forced to pull out after fracturing her ankle. New claims: The TV personality, 79, claimed the dancer (above) pretended to fracture her ankle so she could go on holiday during his time on the show Not happy: Aliona, nee Vilani, took to Twitter on Tuesday to 'strongly deny' the allegations, and confirm she is taking 'legal action' against her former partner However, the father of It Takes Two host Zoe Ball claimed last week that Aliona had faked the injury, in order to go on holiday. He told The Sun on Sunday: 'Aliona fell on a flat floor in flat shoes and said she had broken her leg. 'The next day she flew to the South of France for a pre-arranged weekend with her boyfriend.' Off to a bad start: Johnny was partned with Aliona on the 2012 series (above), but she pulled out ahead of week one due to her fractured ankle Spilling all: However, the father of It Takes Two host Zoe Ball (above) claimed last week that Aliona had faked the injury, and gone on holiday with her boyfriend the following day The mathematician went on to claim that his new partner Iveta Lukosiute made their two routines - a Cha Cha and a Foxtrot - too difficult, therefore increasing his chances of being eliminated. Having left the competition in week two, he added of his replacement partner: 'When I was knocked out she said, "That's funny, my contract ends on Tuesday."' His claims of a fix awkwardly come while his daughter Zoe, who competed on the show herself in 2005, hosts Strictly's week day spin-off It Takes Two. MailOnline has contacted representatives of both Aliona and Johnny for comment. Replacement :The mathematician went on to claim that his new partner Iveta Lukosiute (above), made their two routines too difficult, as part of a 'fix' to have him eliminated Winner winner! Aliona enjoyed a successful run on Strictly Come Dancing - having won with McFly's Harry Judd in 2011 (L) and The Wanted's Jay McGuinness in 2015 (R) Happy: However the Russian-Kazakh dancer hung up her Strictly shoes after her second victory in 2015, in order to spend more time with husband Vincent Kavanagh Aliona enjoyed a successful run on Strictly Come Dancing, prior to her departure in 2015. She won with McFly's Harry Judd in 2011, as well as The Wanted's Jay McGuinness in her last year - making her the first professional dancer to have lifted the glitter ball trophy twice. She also partnered Rav Wilding, Gregg Wallace, and Tony Jacklin, and was named the runner-up with Countryfile host Matt Baker in 2010. However the Russian-Kazakh dancer hung up her Strictly shoes after her second victory in 2015, in order to spend more time with husband Vincent Kavanagh. Aliona married the Irish sales director in 2014, and the pair welcomed their first child, a daughter Bella, in July this year. Advertisement Their controversial romance has raised eyebrows since they went public last month. But Scott Disick, 34, proved he wasn't concerned by critics as he wore a bold hoodie displaying the words 'f**k em all' whilst enjoying a romantic getaway with Sofia Richie, 19. Clearly swept up by the romantic aura of the city, the pair were all over each other as they shared a passionate kiss before strolling out to see the sights hand in hand. Scroll down for video Pucker up: Sofia Richie, 19, was enjoying a romantic getaway with the self confessed 'sex addict' as they packed on the PDA in Venice, Italy on Tuesday Sofia ignored her famous father Lionel Richie's advice as she soaked up the sights with her self-confessed 'sex addict' beau on the Euopean getaway. Sofia had been in Venice for an appearance at Milan's Vittorio Emanuele store to launch the new Adidas Originals Iniki Runner colorway. Yet she was able to mix business with pleasure as she brought father-of-three Scott along for the trip. Hitting out: Scott proved he wasn't concerned by critics as he wore a bold hoodie displaying the words 'f**k em all' whilst enjoying a romantic getaway with Sofia Savvy Sofia: The blonde bombshell was able to mix business with pleasure as she brought father-of-three Scott along for the trip Leggy lady! The youngest daughter of Lionel Richie oozed glamour on the outing, slipping into a pair of leather look trousers with an oversized polo neck jumper Blonde bombshell: Boosting her frame with a pair of barely-there heels, the model accessorised with a small Prada handbag, whilst her golden locks were swept back into a bun Hold me close! The enamoured duo could not stop locking lips during their outing Kicking back: As they soaked up the culture of the city, the happy couple giggled and cavorted on the water Sight PVC-ing! While Scott was dressed down in a hoodie, Sofia was looking elegant in her stylish ensemble Row row row your boat: The happy duo were engrossed in their company as they chatted on the boat Naut-y but nice: The duo appeared relaxed in each other's company as they glided down the canal Having a laugh: The couple giggled at something on her during their romantic boat ride The youngest daughter of Lionel Richie oozed glamour on the outing, slipping into a pair of leather look trousers with an oversized polo neck jumper. Boosting her frame with a pair of barely-there heels, the model accessorised with a small Prada handbag, whilst her golden locks were swept back into a bun. Meanwhile, Scott opted for a casual look as he teamed his hoodie with bleached jeans and chunky white trainers. Pucker up: Sofia and Scott were all over each other as they holidayed in the romantic city Pucker up: The pair couldn't keep their hands off each other as they enjoyed a kiss Loving life: The pair were all smiles and seemed in good spirits as they enjoyed lunch together Playing around: The pair seemed in excellent spirits as they larked around on the outing Not holding back on their romantic day however, the pair were then seen enjoying ice-creams together, before they whiled away their afternoon on one of the city's famous gondolas. Scott was seen sweetly helping the budding model board the boat, by placing a tender hand on her back, before the pair cosied up for the ride around the canals - indulging in a few more kisses as they soaked up the sights. Earlier this month TMZ reported that Scott's ex Kourtney Kardashian had 'no problems' with him dating someone else, 'because if he's happy she's happy,' a source claimed. Treat yourself: Not holding back on their romantic day however, the pair were then seen enjoying ice-creams together Yummy: Sofia happily munched on the dessert, while Scott puffed on a cigarette beside her That's amore: They proceeded to while away their afternoon on one of the city's famous gondolas - with Scott sweetly helping the young model onto the boat Pucker up: The pair cosied up for the ride around the canals - indulging in a few more kisses as they soaked up the sights Cosy: The couple proved to be very close as they cosied up on the boat According to the site, Kourtney, who shares children Mason, 7, Penelope, 5, and 2-year-old Reign with her long term ex, isn't bothered about his relationship with Sofia 'because she thinks it's genuine and feels good that he's moving on'. The same can't be said for Sofia's father Lionel, however, with the legendary musician, 68, admitting he was 'in shock' over his youngest child's choice of 'sex addict' boyfriend. Lionel told US Weekly: 'I'm scared to death, are you kidding me? Have I been in shock?! I'm the dad, come on.' Moving on: Earlier this month TMZ reported that Scott's ex Kourtney Kardashian had 'no problems' with him dating someone else, 'because if he's happy she's happy,' a source claimed 'Scared to death': The same can't be said for Sofia's father Lionel, however, with the legendary musician, 68, admitting he was 'in shock' over his youngest child's choice of 'sex addict' boyfriend Peas in a pod: Both Sofia and Scott later shared images to their Instagram pages of them smoking aboard the gondola She has reportedly parted ways with her boyfriend Ryan Thomas as he prepares to move to Australia. But Lucy Mecklenburgh was living her own tropical dream as she shared a picture from the Juice Hideaway in Marbella on Instagram on Tuesday. Posing up a storm at the poolside, the 26-year-old fitness guru drew attention to her ample cleavage in a keyhole bikini, as she showed her actor beau what he could be missing. Scroll down for video Ryan, who? Lucy Mecklenburgh flaunted her ample assets and sensational figure in TINY keyhole bikini in an Instagram picture on Tuesday from the Juice Hideaway in Marbella Though staying at a fitness retreat, former The Only Way Is Essex star Lucy looked gym-honed her matching black two-piece. Thanks to her stay in the sun-drenched retreat, the reality star flaunted a gorgeous, glowing tan. The Essex born beauty looked healthy and happy as she shared with her fans that she was feeling 'refreshed and full of energy'. Shock split: The former TOWIE beauty, 26, is said to have broken up from her boyfriend Ryan Thomas (pictured together in July) She captioned the shot: 'Feeling refreshed, full of energy and educated after my raw food retreat! Excited for new ventures.' Before jetting off, Lucy seemingly hinted at trouble in paradise with her boyfriend Ryan. Coronation Street star Ryan confirmed that he is going to be making a move to Australia, after landing a job on the soap Neighbours. Gym bunny: Lucy is channeling her heartache into what she knows best - fitness And appearing to take a swipe at him after the news broke, Lucy shared a photograph of a toad on Instagram with the caption: 'I seem to attract frogs.' Meanwhile Ryan appeared to be teasing a reunion between the pair when he shared a selfie of himself, saying: 'I'll give you one more chance.' MailOnline has previously approached Lucy Mecklenburgh and Ryan Thomas' representatives for comment. Sparks flew when they met on Bear Grylls' Celebrity Island where they were in the midst of water shortages, extreme hunger and tropical storms. Intense work out: The Essex born beauty looked healthy and happy as she shared with her fans that she was feeling 'refreshed and full of energy' Love is survival: Sparks flew when she met Ryan on Bear Grylls' Celebrity Island where they were in the midst of water shortages, extreme hunger and tropical storms After developing a strong bond on the survival show, the pair continued their romance on home turf. It had appeared to be going strong, with Lucy even being introduced to Ryan's eight-year-old daughter Scarlet whom he shares with former flame Tina O'Brien. The actor found success with Coronation Street's Jason Grimshaw for 16 years before leaving the show to seek other opportunities. Ryan said: 'I grew up watching Neighbours so to get the chance to join the cast is amazing. I was on holiday with my daughter when I got the phone call.' Her father Sir Mick Jagger will play a series of live shows in France with The Rolling Stones later this week. And ever the supportive daughter, Georgia May Jagger jetted into Paris on Tuesday in preparation for the 74-year-old legendary rocker's gig. The 25-year-old model looked typically chic in a silky green camisole as she strolled around the Champs Elysees, soaking up the culture with a male companion. Supportive daughter: Georgia May Jagger jetted into Paris on Tuesday in preparation for her 74-year-old legendary rocker dad Sir Mick's gig The former face of Chanel nailed the off-duty model look with her green top, which she teamed with skintight black jeans. She injected a dose of grunge to the look with a pair of tan lace-up biker boots and finished off the look with a silver chain necklace. Styling her golden locks in tousled waves, the Rimmel star - whose mother if former supermodel Jerry Hall appeared to go make-up free. The blonde beauty seemed to be in great spirits as she chatted away happily with her male pal - who looked grungy in a slogan T-shirt and brown trousers. Georgia has been a permanent fixture on Sir Mick's Rollins Stones tour, as the band's European tour draws to a close. Having fun? The 25-year-old model looked typically chic in a silky green camisole as she strolled around the Champs Elysees, soaking up the culture with a male companion Looking good: The former face of Chanel nailed the off-duty model look with her green top, which she teamed with skintight black jeans She supported her dad on the Amsterdam leg of the tour in early October, visiting the city with her older sister Elizabeth, Cara Delevingne and Theodora Richards - the daughter of Rolling Stones guitarist Keith. It seems the model has had a change of heart about her dad's famously energetic hip-thrusting moves onstage - which she had mocked in a previous interview. Its pretty funny when dad gets on the dance floor because he has got such a, like, I dont know how to describe his moves but lets just say he doesnt go unnoticed, you know what I mean? she said at a beauty event in Australia. She also joked: 'People say all the time, Your dad is so cool. But Im like, But theyre my parents and they cringe me out all the time. Stunning:Styling her golden locks in tousled waves, the Rimmel star - whose mother if former supermodel Jerry Hall appeared to go make-up free Double trouble: The blonde beauty seemed to be in great spirits as she chatted away happily with her male pal - who looked grungy in a slogan T-shirt and brown trousers And it has been a full-on family affair for Mick's concerts, as Georgia's half-brother Lucas was seen by his father's side in Amsterdam before his gig. The 18-year-old -Sir Micks son with Brazilian model and TV presenter Luciana Gimenez - supported his father following the legendary bands performance on Monday afternoon. Sir Mick will be back onstage on October 19, when his band play the first of three final shows at U Arena in the Parisian suburb of Nanterre. Proud: Georgia has been a permanent fixture on Sir Mick's Rollins Stones tour, as the band's European tour draws to a close Famous offspring: She is the daughter of Sir Mick and 61-year-old former supermodel Jerry Hall. Pictured together in 2014 Seeing double: Like her mother, Georgia has carved out a career in modelling - working with brands like Chanel, Mugler and Versace Meanwhile, Georgia has been getting used to having a new Jagger to contend with, after her rocker dad welcomed his eighth child in December. Ballet dancer Melanie Hamrick, 30, welcomed a son Deveraux Octavian Basil Jagger - - Octavian means 'born eighth' in Latin - with the Rollings Stones legend. Sir Mick has a daughter, Karis Hunt Jagger, 46, from his relationship with Marsha Hunt and a daughter Jade Jagger, now 45, with his ex-wife Bianca. Cheeky: It seems the model has had a change of heart about her dad's famously energetic hip-thrusting moves onstage - which she had mocked in a previous interview. Ever growing family: Meanwhile, Georgia has been getting used to having a new Jagger to contend with, after her rocker dad welcomed his eighth child in December He had four children with his ex-partner Jerry Hall - Elizabeth, 32, James, 31, Georgia and Gabriel, 18. Also joining Georgia at the event was her stunning pal Suki, who went for a chic hoodie and the same leg-flaunting skirt at Georgia. The model and actress wore her locks in tousled beachy waves and kept it comfortable in a pair of white trainers. She revealed in a shocking social media post last Thursday that shamed movie mogul Harvey Weinstein propositioned her when she was just 17. And in the wake of her allegations Kate Beckinsale shared an emotional poem and teary-eyed selfie to her Instagram on Tuesday, warning about 'truthful liars and false friends.' The actress, 44, looked wide-eyed in the candid black and white shot, which showed her with what appeared to be tears running down her face, smearing her mascara, with her hair wrapped in a towel. Scroll down for video Emotional: Days after revealing shamed movie mogul Harvey Weinstein came on to her when she was a teenager Kate Beckinsale shared an emotional poem and teary-eyed selfie to her Instagram on Tuesday, warning about 'truthful liars and false friends' Claim: Harvey Weinstein and Kate are pictured at the afterparty following the UK premiere of The Aviator in 2004 Accompanying the unusual photo was the poem let it go-the by E.E. Cummings which talks of releasing negative people and emotions from your life. It reads: 'let it go the smashed word broken' open vow or the oath cracked lengthwise let it go it was sworn to go. 'let them go the truthful liars and the false fair friends and the boths and neithers you must let them go they were born to go 'let all go the big small middling tall bigger really the biggest and all things let all go dear Iconic; Accompanying the unusual photo was the poem let it go-the by E.E. Cummings which talks of releasing negative people and emotions from your life Allegation: This comes after the Underworld star revealed in an Instagram post that Weinstein targeted when she was just a 17-year-old ingenue with school the next day 'so comes love.' This comes after the Underworld star revealed in an Instagram post that Weinstein targeted when she was just a 17-year-old ingenue with school the next day. Like many of his alleged victims, Kate said Weinstein tried to assault her during a hotel room meeting early on in her career. 'I was called to meet Harvey Weinstein at the Savoy Hotel when I was 17. I assumed it would be in a conference room which was very common. When I arrived, reception told me to go to his room,' she wrote. 'He opened the door in his bathrobe. I was incredibly naive and young and it did not cross my mind that this older, unattractive man would expect me to have any sexual interest in him. After declining alcohol and announcing that I had school in the morning I left, uneasy but unscathed.' Awards show: Kate appeared in one Miramax film, 2001's Serendipity. Weinstein and his brother Bob founded Miramax (named after their parents Miriam and Max) in 1979 (pictured at the The London Evening Standard British Film Awards in December 2016) A few years later, the British actress says Weinstein recalled their first meeting and asked if he had 'tried anything'. 'I realized he couldn't remember if he had assaulted me or not,' Beckinsale said. Kate, whose parents were both actors as well, says turning Weinstein down negatively impacted her career. 'I had what I thought were boundaries - I said no to him professionally many times over the years - some of which ended up with him screaming at me calling me a c*** and making threats, some of which made him laughingly tell people oh "Kate lives to say no to me." 'It speaks to the status quo in this business that I was aware that standing up for myself and saying no to things, while it did allow me to feel uncompromised in myself, undoubtedly harmed my career and was never something I felt supported by anyone other than my family,' she said. Impact; Kate, whose parents were both actors as well, says turning Weinstein down negatively impacted her career Kate also told the story of how Weinstein allegedly threatened a male friend of hers, after he warned another young actress about the producer's predatory behavior. 'I had a male friend who, based on my experience, warned a young actress who said she was going to dinner with Harvey to be careful. He received a phone call the next day saying he would never work in another Miramax film; the girl was already sleeping with Harvey and had told him that my friend had warned her of,' Beckinsale says. The mother-of-one thanked the women who have come forward and hopes that the scandal can be a lesson for Hollywood. 'I would like to applaud the women who have come forward , and to pledge that we can from this create a new paradigm where producers, managers, executives and assistants and everyone who has in the past shrugged and said "well, that's just Harvey /Mr X/insert name here " will realize that we in numbers can affect real change. 'For every moment like this there have been thousands where a vulnerable person has confided outrageous unprofessional behavior and found they have no recourse, due to an atmosphere of fear that it seems almost everyone has been living in. Backlash: Kate made the revelation in an Instagram post, including what appears to be a picture of her from that age 'Let's stop allowing our young women to be sexual cannon fodder,and let's remember that Harvey is an emblem of a system that is sick, and that we have work to do,' she said. Kate's story confirms just how bold Weinstein was in his sexual quests, since he targeted people who even grew up in the industry. The women who have spoken out against him have told strikingly similar stories about being approached at the cusp of their careers. Most of the stories involve hotel room meetings, with Weinstein forcing himself on young actresses once being left alone by an assistant. Chat: The mother-of-one thanked the women who have come forward and hopes that the scandal can be a lesson for Hollywood (pictured in 2004) She rose to fame in America in 2001, when she played the romantic lead in the blockbuster hit Pearl Harbor. She's now perhaps best known for her role in the Underworld film franchise. Beckinsale was in a relationship with fellow British actor Michael Sheen from 1993 to 2003, and the two have a teenage daughter together. She was married to film producer Len Wiseman from 2004 to 2016. She is known to be vocal on social media, and often documents her everyday life on Instagram. But Paris Jackson used the platform to inspire body confidence in her followers on Tuesday, as she shared a natural, skin-baring snap with fans. The 19-year-old Chanel muse stripped to nothing but her Calvin Klein briefs, to display most of her figure in the photo - which she accompanied with the empowering caption: 'Comfortable in my rolls.' Scroll down for video Comfortable in her own skin: Paris Jackson posed in nothing but Calvin Klein briefs in her latest Instagram snap, in inspiring post about body confidence The daughter of the late Michael Jackson posed in nothing but the casual underwear for the photo - displaying plenty of skin and her famous tattoos with fans. With her face out of shot, Paris positioned her arms across her chest, to keep the image modest but still give a glimpse of her braless frame underneath. Leaving her hair in loose waves and adding a selection of her trademark tribal jewellery, the star ensured her body took centre stage in the snap - shared to inspire body confidence in her followers. Confidence is key: Making a powerful statement about natural appearance, she accompanied it with the caption: 'Comfortable in my rolls. f*** wit me' Making a powerful statement about natural appearance, she accompanied it with the caption: 'Comfortable in my rolls. f*** wit me.' Paris has previously spoken about the importance of embracing your natural appearance, and instead focusing on your attitude towards others. She told i-D earlier this year: 'Beauty is not measured by numbers, or symmetry, or shapes, or sizes, or colours, or anything like that. Inspiring: Paris has previously spoken about natural beauty, revealing that true beauty is not measured by 'shapes, sizes, or colours' but 'the soul, the character and the integrity' 'Beauty, true beauty, should be measured by the soul, the character, integrity, intentions and mindset of a person, what comes out of their mouth. How they behave. Their heart.' Paris has been carving a career as a model in recent months, having signed a contract with IMG Models in March, following a stunning shoot for Chanel in Paris. However proving multiple strings to her bow, she also turned her hand to acting earlier this month - having starred in the music video for her pal Nahko's first single Dragonfly. The starlet is also set to make her feature-film debut in 2018 in the action film Gringo, alongside Charlize Theron, Amanda Seyfried, David Oyelowo and Thandie Newton. He's the Irish television presenter, whose talk show is currently in its 22nd season. And in Wednesday's The Daily Telegraph, Graham Norton revealed his most noteworthy interviews to date, with a Top Gun star topping the list. 'Tom Cruise is incredible,' the 54-year-old gushed, while actor and retired boxer Mickey Rourke was described as 'exhausting.' Scroll down for videos Hollywood insider: Irish television presenter Graham Norton, 54, revealed a few of his most noteworthy celebrity interviews, in Wednesday's The Daily Telegraph 'Someone like Tom Cruise is incredible. He comes in and gets introduced to everyone, as happens with every guest, and he remembers everyone's name. 'And on the way out he remembers everyone's name and what they do. Clearly, that is some sort of mental trick, but it's a very impressive one,' Graham went on to say of the 55-year-old. Other stars to have made the journalist's list of great interviewees include actors Will Smith and Tom Hanks. Impressed: 'Someone like Tom Cruise is incredible. He comes in and gets introduced to everyone, as happens with every guest, and he remembers everyone's name,' Graham said of the 55-year-old Top Gun actor Holding a room: 'And on the way out he remembers everyone's name and what they do. Clearly, that is some sort of mental trick, but it's a very impressive one,' he went on to say However not all guests are a walk in the park, with Graham describing Mickey Rourke, 65, as tiresome. 'He was just exhausting because he wanted to smoke all the time. I'd turn away for a second, turn back, and he'd have lit another cigarette. It was so boring.' Graham, a five-time BAFTA TV award winner, has interviewed a plethora of stars in his illustrious career. Favoured: Other stars to have made the journalist's list of great interviewees include actors Will Smith (pictured), 49, and Tom Hanks Not his favourite: However not all guests are a walk in the park, with Graham describing Mickey Rourke, 65, as tiresome And as one of the UK's highest paid television personalities, it came as no surprise to hear of Graham listing his six bedroom plush seaside pad for a cool 2.3 million ($3.8 million AUD), last month. Graham's stunning mansion in Cooden, Bexhill, features a master bedroom opening onto a balcony overlooking the English Channel. The bedroom has a luxury en suite, with a double sink basin and freestanding bath that looks over the property's private beach. Tiresome: 'He was just exhausting because he wanted to smoke all the time. I'd turn away for a second, turn back, and he'd have lit another cigarette' They were recently introduced as sexy singletons set to cause a stir on The Only Way Is Essex. But Ruby Lacey and Maddie Hooper will have significantly less screen time on TOWIE after bosses discovered the pair already had boyfriends, according to The Sun. An insider told the publication: 'Their roles have now been so severely reduced that they will just play the part as extras in nightclub and party scenes.' Scroll down for video Revealed: Ruby Lacey and Maddie Hooper (pictured in Marbella earlier this year) will have significantly reduced roles in TOWIE after bosses discovered the pair already had boyfriends, according to The Sun Georgia Kousoulou - who is hailed as one of the most popular beauties on TOWIE - brought the stunning pair into the TV circle. With their string of sexy ensembles, it is no surprise they hit the ground running when they flew out to Marbella to film their first scenes over the summer. However, it seems the glamorous pair will now take a back seat on TOWIE after bosses were said to have discovered they had boyfriends. Ruby's secret romance came to light when she reportedly refused to let a storyline of her kissing TOWIE hunk Jordan Brook come to fruition on the screen. Friends in high places: Georgia Kousoulou brought the stunning pair into the star-studded TOWIE circle as her close friends The insider added: 'Bosses had high hopes for Ruby and Maddie and thought they would bring some drama to the show. 'It was understood they were both single when filming started but producers soon realised that they had boyfriends.' MailOnline have contacted TOWIE representatives for comment. Different direction: It seems the glamorous pair will now take a back seat in TOWIE after bosses were said to have discovered they weren't single (pictured together in August 2017, Essex) Before being propelled into the limelight, Ruby worked as a hairdresser Beauty Works extensionist while Maddie had pursued a career as a lash technician. Their friendship with Georgia goes way back and the trio have enjoyed a series of sun-drenched holidays to TOWIE hotspots Marbella and Mallorca. They also enjoyed nights out with Chloe Lewis, Amber Dowding, Lydia Bright, and Yazmin Oukhello. She has been teasing her new relationship on social media for the past few weeks. But Daily Mail Australia can exclusively reveal the identity of Bachelor reject Cobie Frost's new mystery man as being Chris Whearty, the former husband of My Kitchen Rules star Della Muscat. Chris, who split from Della late last year, has become a familiar face on Cobie's Instagram page of late- often posing shirtless while cuddling up to his new squeeze with zest. Scroll down for video From one reality star to another: Daily Mail Australia can exclusively reveal the identity of Bachelor reject Cobie Frost's new mystery man as being Chris Whearty, the former husband of My Kitchen Rules star Della Muscat Cobie has also posed in scant attire while draped around Chris' shoulders for several steamy Instagram snaps. The racy photos are usually accompanied with gushing captions penned by Cobie, who famously became known as the token 'stage five clinger' on The Bachelor earlier this year. While it appears the pair have only been dating for a short time, Cobie has already professed her love for the Queensland father and has even sparked engagement rumours by wearing a diamond sparkler on her wedding finger. TMI? Chris, who split from Della late last year, has become a familiar face on Cobie's Instagram page of late- often posing shirtless while cuddling up to his new squeeze with zest They're not shy! Cobie has also posed in scant attire while draped around Chris' shoulders for several steamy Instagram snaps It comes just months after MKR star Della spoke to New Idea about her heart-breaking separation from Chris over Christmas last year. 'Over Christmas and New Year, we decided that we would separate. It all happened in the midst of MKR... I've had a lot going on!' she admitted. 'I think deciding to separate is a really brave decision to make, and I'm really proud of Chris and me because I think it's easy to stay in a marriage that isn't right and have that security and comfort,' Della added. 'I think deciding to separate is a really brave decision to make': It comes just months after MKR star Della spoke to New Idea about her heart-breaking separation from Chris over Christmas last year Della has also taken to her blog to reflect upon the painful split, writing: '(Separation) is the most harrowing thing Ive ever gone through.' She later added: 'I think the key thing with separation is that you have to keep it away from the kids.' 'What people don't realise is there's a lot of hurt and healing that the married couple has to do, so it is really hard to put your mummy face on.' A Crow tribal hunter has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review his treaty rights case. Clayvin Herrera was found guilty by a Wyoming jury in Sheridan Circuit Court in April 2016 of illegally killing an elk out of season in the Bighorn National Forest in January 2014. He was fined and ordered to pay costs of $8,080, received a suspended jail sentence and had his hunting privileges suspended for three years. Herreras attorney, Kyle Gray of Billings, had argued that her clients hunting rights were guaranteed by the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie, which allowed the Crow Tribe to hunt on unoccupied federal lands. The court refused to hear that argument, saying the issue had already been settled in a previous case. Since then, Herreras attorneys have pushed the case up the ladder of appeals, most recently rejected by the Wyoming Supreme Court on June 16. On Oct. 5, Herreras legal team petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to hear the case. The odds are not in Herreras favor. The high court hears only about 1 percent of the cases submitted for review, according to professor Robert J. Miller, an Indian law expert at the Sandra Day OConner School of Law at Arizona State University. He also said there is no particular timeline for when the court might decide. It could take months to say yes or no, he said. Tribal rights The central theme of Herreras argument is that a more recent high court decision concerning tribal treaty rights and state rights the 1999 Minnesota v. Mille Lacs Band (of Chippewa Indians) has created a conflict in the courts. The (Wyoming courts) decision ignores this (U.S. Supreme) Courts precedents, badly misconstrues the Tribes 1868 Treaty, and creates a clear split with federal and state courts, all while imperiling the ability of Tribe members to provide for their families as they and other Native Americans, pursuant to similar treaties have done for over a century, Herreras attorneys argued in their writ to the U.S. Supreme Court. Only this Court can correct this injustice, resolve the unsettled case law, and reaffirm the federal treaty-based rights that the Tribe and other Native Americans have long enjoyed. Miller said the 1999 Mille Lacs ruling by the high court kind of shocked everyone in the Indian law world, sort of revising the much-earlier 1896 case known as Ward v. Race Horse. Wyoming history Ward v. Race Horse is an interesting case in Wyoming for a couple of reasons. The case arose after a shootout between Bannock Indians from Idaho and whites living in the Jackson Hole area. The Bannocks were on their way to visit Shoshone relatives on Wyomings Wind River Reservation when they stopped to shoot some elk to eat, according to an article by Lori Van Pelt on the WyoHistory.org website. That prompted the shootout in which one Bannock was killed, another was injured and a child went missing. Weeks later, Wyoming enacted a new law regulating hunting in the state, aimed at restricting Indian rights granted in their treaties. Wyoming and federal Indian officials challenged the law and won, but the case was appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. Arguing for the state was Willis Van Deventer, the same attorney who represented the vigilante group of well-to-do ranchers and hired gunmen who invaded Johnson County in 1892. None of the vigilantes were convicted. Yet that group was bent on killing several individuals on a list who the ranchers claimed were responsible for rampant cattle rustling. When Johnson County locals rallied, a shootout started and eventually the U.S. Army intervened. Van Pelt writes that Van Deventers interest in taking the Ward v. Race Horse case was political. He indicated in a letter to Sen. (Francis) Warren that his interest in the case was political because he hoped a positive outcome would help the administration of Gov. W.A. Richards and the efforts of Republicans throughout the state in that election year of 1896, she wrote. Van Deventer went on to win the case before the high court in a 7-1 decision, and Warren later assisted Van Deventer to gain a Washington, D.C., appointment, a judgeship in the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals and in 1910 an appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court, Wyomings first and only resident to ever serve on the court. Confusing rulings Miller said the 1999 Mille Lacs ruling in part overruled Ward v. Race Horse without explicitly saying so, although Wyoming attorneys successfully argued in Herreras case that wasnt so. In essence, Miller said, the high court said over 100 years the law had changed significantly and, while states can regulate wildlife for conservation purposes, that doesnt restrict tribal treaty rights. With so much turnover in the Supreme Court since that 1999 ruling, Miller said the justices may want to review Herreras case. The issues raised go to the heart of many states arguments about states right versus tribal rights, Miller said. But even if the Supreme Court were to hear the case, he said it only reverses about 40 percent of the cases it takes. Herreras attorneys argued that, If the Tribes federal treaty rights are to be the supreme Law of the Land no more, and a state can criminally prosecute and convict a Tribe member for engaging in what the plain language of the treaty expressly protects, all based on reasoning that other courts have repudiated, then at least this Court should be the one to make that determination. In all events, the need for this Courts review is plain. Herreras attorneys also state that by not reviewing this case, the Supreme Court leaves its Ninth and Eighth Circuit Courts in disagreement. While the Ninth Circuit court has upheld tribal hunting rights on unoccupied federal lands, the Eighth Circuit Court has said that those tribal rights were revoked when states were created. That the two circuits with the vast majority of national forestland disagree on this issue is reason enough to review the Herrera case, his attorneys argued. The writ later argued, This case therefore cries out for this Courts review, and this is an ideal vehicle to resolve the exceptionally important federal question it presents. In short, this Court need only answer the clean legal question of whether the 1868 Treaty has been abrogated or not. She has often spoken about the close relationship she shares with ex Tom Sturridge, who she co-parents daughter Marlowe with. And Sienna Miller, 35, looked in good spirits as she joined ex Tom, 31 and their 5-year-old daughter for a family day out in New York. The British acting duo, who split in 2015 following a three year engagement, put on a united front just days after Sienna spoke out about the Harvey Weinstein abuse allegations. Scroll down for video Close: Sienna Miller, 35, looked in good spirits as she joined ex Tom, 31 and their 5-year-old daughter for a family day out in New York Cutting a relaxed figure, Sienna slipped into a khaki trench coat, pink sweater and jeans, juggling her little girl's book and toys. Marlowe looked to be having a fabulous time, dressed in a sweet floral dress as she balanced on her casually-clad father's shoulders. Sienna spoke out about their close relationship earlier this year, calling Tom her 'best friend'. Speaking to Harper's Bazaar, the Alfie star admitted they often stay at each other's houses in an effort to provide a close-knit environment for their daughter. Family fun: The British acting duo, who split in 2015 following a three year engagement, put on a united front just days after Sienna spoke out about the Harvey Weinstein abuse allegations 'Everybody will stay over or well all go on holiday and thats because we genuinely want to be around each other. Its great for our daughter that she has two parents who love each other and are friends.' 'Hes definitely my best friend in the entire world,' she added sweetly. The screen star's appearance came as she broke her silence on the Harvey Weinstein sex abuse scandal after more than 30 women in the film business accused the disgraced movie mogul, 65, of rape, groping and sexual harassment. Sienna publicly spoke out about the Weinstein scandal for the first time on Friday morning, taking to her Instagram account to voice her solidarity with the women affected. She wrote: 'Having worked many times with the Weinstein Company, I feel compelled to comment on the horrendous allegations that have come to light over the past few days. 'I was fortunate to never have been subjected to sexual harassment or advances by Harvey Weinstein, but I stand in absolute solidarity with those who were. 'Horrendous': On Friday she broke her silence on the Harvey Weinstein sex abuse scandal Emma Thompson put it perfectly when she said, "What we need to start talking about is the crisis in masculinity, extreme masculinity, which is this sort of behavior, and the fact that it is not only ok, but is also represented by the most powerful man in the world right now".' Sienna most notably worked alongside the shamed producer on Factory Girl in 2006 when she took on the role of actress and socialite Edie Sedgwick. Earlier this week it was claimed, Weinstein threatened to sabotage the careers of several A-list stars, including Sienna, if they didn't wear his wife Georgina Chapman's designs on the red carpet. The British-born mother-of-two, 41, set up Marchesa in 2004 and before the scandal over rape and sexual harassment allegations broke, she faced accusations that the label was only successful thanks to her husband's Hollywood connections. Speaking out: Sienna spoke about the Weinstein scandal for the first time on Friday, taking to Instagram to voice her solidarity with the women affected (pictured in December 2009) A publicist recalled that Sienna was told Harvey 'would be very upset if she didn't wear Marchesa' when invited to sit at his table at the Golden Globes in 2007 after starring in the Weinstein-produced Factory Girl. More than 30 women have now come forward with allegations of sexual harassment against Hollywood mogul Weinstein, the man once described as 'God' of the film industry. The accusations, including from some of the world's most famous actresses, range from inappropriate massages to rape over a three-decade period. Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Cara Delevingne, Kate Beckinsale, Lea Seydoux, Rose McGowan, Ashley Judd and Rosanna Arquette are among the high-profile names to have come forward. Back in the day: Sienna notably worked alongside the shamed producer on Factory Girl when she took on the role of actress and socialite Edie Sedgwick (pictured in March 2006) Shamed: It's been claimed Weinstein threatened to sabotage the careers of several A-list stars, including Sienna, if they didn't wear his wife Georgina Chapman's Marchesa designs Weinstein is currently believed to be heading to The Meadows, a treatment facility in Arizona with a focused 45-day inpatient program for sex addiction and behavioral issues. The movie mogul was fired by the board of his production company, The Weinstein Company, on Sunday. His wife of 10 years, English fashion designer Georgina Chapman, 41, announced she was leaving him on Monday, deeming his actions 'unforgivable'. On Tuesday, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) suspended his membership from the organization, while a DailyMail.com exclusive revealed the FBI had opened an investigation into the producer. Blac Chyna didn't have Tyga's phone number until they started planning their son's birthday party. The former couple were spotted in the same company last weekend for their boy King Cairo's fifth birthday at the Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park in California, which they are said to have spent two months planning with the help of the youngster's nanny. According to gossip website TMZ, the pair are now willing to put their differences aside in public for the sake of their son, partly thanks to Cairo's babysitter acting as a peacemaker in the party negotiations. Back in contact: Blac Chyna didn't have Tyga's phone number until they started planning their son's birthday party, which took place at Six Flags Magic Mountain on Saturday They are said to have decided to try to get along more for the sake of their son and because him starting kindergarten will mean they will need to chat about his schooling on a regular basis. In March, Chyna appeared to slam Tyga - whose real name is Michael Stevenson - for not paying child support for their son, launching a furious tirade on Snapchat. She posted: "It's funny now to me!!! But when Tyga and side n***a kicked me out!!! And they wanted to see me fail! lol And 2 grind from the dirt!!!!!! No child support! N***a is like hoes! "So imma treat u like that! Not paying Jenny ! Wow. Stop running to ur money! Telling my business about King! I bet any money ! I got more money then ur account Tyga, Michael !!! Peace talks: The former couple were spotted in the same company last weekend for their boy King Cairo's fifth birthday at the Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park in California, which they are said to have spent two months planning with the help of the youngster's nanny For the King: The pair are now willing to put their differences aside in public for the sake of their son "So go tell Kylie [Jenner] and Rob [Kardashian]! About our son Account! Cause that's the only reason I'm contacting your f**a**! But u wanna make it like I want u lol! Tyga ur a b****! And u can go get ur mom, or ur b****! Lol!!! Or ur n***a u f***in or Terrell or heather! (sic)" At the time, Tyga was dating Kylie Jenner, the half-sister of Rob Kardashian, who Chyna has 11-month-old daughter Dream with. Dream was part of her half-brother's party on Saturday. Having split from Tyga in 2014, Chyna had been with her Rob & Chyna co-star off and on since early 2015, and she gave birth to Dream last November. Stuff to talk about: They are said to have decided to try to get along more for the sake of their son and because him starting kindergarten will mean they will need to chat about his schooling on a regular basis Rob and Chyna split in December - Rob posting a Snapchat video of himself wandering miserably through their empty house - but reunited soon after. This July saw their latest and most dramatic breakup, with Rob posting explicit photos of Chyna to Instagram during a rant that got his account removed. In short order, Chyna lawyered up with Gloria Allred's daughter Lisa Bloom and won a restraining order against her rotund used-to-be. Meanwhile, Rob chose for his attorney Robert Shapiro - who with Rob's father had been a member of O.J. Simpson's defense team during O.J.'s murder trial. Family: Dream was part of her half brother's party on Saturday At age 48, Catherine Zeta-Jones is still every inch a Hollywood sex symbol thanks to her dancer's figure. But the wife of Michael Douglas put her curves on the line as she bulked up to play ruthless Colombia drug lord Griselda Blanco in the Lifetime original movie, Cocaine Godmother. 'I gained weight, I was hunched over. If I had balls, Id have grabbed them from time to time. I wanted to let it all hang out,' the mother of two told Deadline. Committed: At age 48, Catherine Zeta-Jones is still every inch a Hollywood sex symbol thanks to her dancer's figure. But the wife of Michael Douglas put her curves on the line as she bulked up to play ruthless Colombia drug lord Griselda Blanco. Seen on Monday in France The woman she is depticting: The star is playing Blanco in the Lifetime original movie, Cocaine Godmother The Oscar winner added: 'She thought she was beautiful. She was the movie star starring in her own movie. She didnt give a s***.' And the Chicago actress said she was happy to play someone who was so tough. 'As women we get knocked down for being ambitious. I often wish we could take a little bit of that true ambition and be proud of it,' said the Zorro star. With the weight on: Here the Hollywood icon is seen with some extra pounds on her tiny frame as she filmed her Griselda movie in June in Canada Booked: If the name Griselda sounds familiar that's because she was a part of the popular HBO docu-series Cocaine Cowboys that documented the rise of the drug in Florida in the 1970s 'I wouldnt be talking to you today if I didnt have an inherent ambition. You make your own luck. Yes, there are people who help along the way, but weird enough, the harder I work, the luckier I get Take credit for yourself. 'The humble crap is good, but it gets boring.' If the name Griselda sounds familiar that's because she was a part of the popular HBO docu-series Cocaine Cowboys that documented the rise of the drug in Florida in the 1970s. An incredible body: Catherine has been looking drop-dead gorgeous all week while in Cannes Ravishing: She is seen here on Monday at the MipCom cocktail event Blanco was depicted as a violent, vain drug lord who killed anyone who stood in her way. It is believed she ordered the murders of 200 people in her lifetime. Blanco first dipped her toe into drug dealing when she was living in Queens, New York. She then moved to where the action really was, Miami, and staffed up. Her family: Catherine with Michael Douglas, Dylan and Carys in 2015 in Jerusalem When her second husband died she was given the nickname The Black Widow. She amassed an incredible amount of wealth but when her enemies closed in, she moved to California. When she was deported to Colombia in 2012 she was quickly killed. Catherine did not want to 'homogenize her or find a sympathetic quality' for the criminal. 'I dont think she had one. I applaud Lifetime and A+E. It would have been easy to rose-tint this story,' said Zeta-Jones. The next generation: Zeta-Jones has said her daughter Carys wants to get into acting; here she is seen in September at a fashion show in NYC But the cover girl found there to be 'something fantastic about how she was the boss in a dangerous mans world,' said the star. 'You gotta give it to her. I remember saying as bad as she is, Im going to make people kind of like her,' said the Welsh star. This is not Catherine's first step back into acting. Earlier this year she played Olivia de Havilland in FXs Feud about the decades long tension between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. 'I'm happy, lucky and blessed to be back,' she said. Early years: The Welsh princess with Douglas in 1999 after they first met 'I definitely would love to do more.' She then added: 'Years ago, there was a stigma. I was stuck in the showgirl theater box. Eventually I made it into television in Britain and then made it to film. If you got to do film, you dont go to TV. That has changed. 'Actors are able to do human stories, they dont have to be robots for a $200M movie. This is why we do it, to have those international human stories that any culture can understand.' Cocaine Godmother premieres in 2018 on Lifetime. Zeta-Jones stunned on Monday night in Cannes with a black lace dress, looking better than most actresses half her age. The New York resident also has a home line called Casa Zeta Jones that sells on QVC. Joy-Anna Duggar was shown having her very first kiss as she allowed the reality TV cameras to capture her wedding to Austin Forsyth. A two-hour special of Counting On showed the intimate moments of Joy and Austins special day in May which ended with Joy's brother Joe getting down on one knee and proposing to Kendra Caldwell at the reception, setting in motion the next Duggar wedding while the current one was still happening. Joy, 19, Austin, 23, had only been officially courting for three months before getting married, and because of their families deeply religious beliefs had been forbidden to even kiss beforehand. Smackdown: Joy-Anna Duggar was shown having her very first kiss as she allowed the reality TV cameras to capture her wedding to Austin Forsyth Thunder stealer: It ended with Joy's brother Joe getting down on one knee and proposing to Kendra Caldwell at the reception, setting in motion the next Duggar wedding while the current one was still happening Their ceremony, which saw Austin burst into tears as soon as his bride-to-be started walking down the aisle, seemed to clearly lead to the first kiss, with Austin asking Joy in a whisper moments before: Are you ready? For what? Joy playful replied, before whispering back with a smile: Yes! But the pastor leading the ceremony also wanted to have fun, and kept them waiting at the moment they expected him to give permission for their kiss. Happiness: A two-hour special of Counting On showed the intimate moments of Joy and Austins special day in May Moment of truth: Joy, 19, Austin, 23, ended the ceremony with their first kiss Interesting: They had only been officially courting for three months before getting married, and because of their families deeply religious beliefs had been forbidden to kiss beforehand After clearing his voice, with the young couple both doing the same, he asked: Oh, am I missing something? Austin, you know you may kiss your bride, he finally said with a large smile, with the congregation whooping as Austin tenderly cupped his brides face and kissed her slowly. Austin and Is first kiss was amazing, recalled Joy, who is already expecting their first child, later. He did a good job he put his hand up to my face just in case he missed and nobody could see. It felt very natural. Throughout our relationship its been Ok, this is the next step, this is what we need to do next, and that was the way it was with our first kiss. It was amazing. Perfect. Proud: Her father Jim Bob walked her down the aisle as she told him: 'I hope I dont pass out' Protector: Austin told the pastor 'If I fall, catch me' Beaming: Joy was all smiles during the ceremony Bling bling: The exchanging of the vows were especially emotional Austin, meanwhile, said: Kissing Joy for the first time was amazing It was like sealing the deal. We exchange rings, we share vows, but this was the first thing that her and I had physically done, and the fact that all of our friends and family got to see it. It was pretty cool. They then repeatedly kissed throughout the rest of the night, including after they fed each other wedding cake and also climbing into a balloon-filled car. Austin also teased his new brother-in-law Joe as he hugged Kendra after their engagement, filming them on his phone and leaning in to say: No kissing! Touching: Austin began crying at the altar What a gent! He wiped away Joy's tears during the ceremony Aww: It was 10-year-old Jenny Duggar who had the hardest time, and had to be comforted though her tears by Joy before the ceremony Excited: They read their own vows, and also got the pastor to witness them signing them, with Joy unable to hide her joy at realizing she could sign it as Joy Forsyth The couple decided to have a first look where they saw each other in their wedding attire before the actual ceremony, with Austin admitting it was because I would have lost it if I saw her walking down the aisle. Youre so beautiful the prettiest bride ever, he whispered to Joy, who said later of that moment: Seeing Austins reaction made it even more special for me. While Joy had remained calm during the wedding day preparations, Austin had grown increasingly nervous, admitting:' When I got in my suit it felt like the temperature in the building went up 100 degrees. I was getting more nervous but it was a good nervous. But in the final moments before the ceremony, they switched roles with Austin insisting he felt peace while Joy said: I was breathing hard, trying not to cry. All these emotions going through me, my whole life is changing. This is our fifth child to get married': Jim Bob said later with wife Michelle by his side Still, Austin told the pastor If I fall, catch me, and Joy told dad Jim Bob: I hope I dont pass out. Despite their first look, Austin burst into tears as soon as he saw Joy walking down the aisle, recalling later: It was just an overwhelming emotional time but it was the most incredible thing pretty much ever. Austins face was just priceless, Joys sister Jessa Seewald recalled, while Joy said of her new husbands tears: I wasnt surprised that he did, because hes pretty emotional. They read their own vows, and also got the pastor to witness them signing them, with Joy unable to hide her joy at realizing she could sign it as Joy Forsyth. Prepared: Of the kiss Joy said: 'He did a good job he put his hand up to my face just in case he missed and nobody could see.' Not comfortable yet? Joy tried to kiss him during the confessional but Austin resisted Sweet smooch: He finally gave in Both sets of parents also joined them to form a circle and say prayers during the ceremony, with Joys mother Michelle Duggar saying God we thank you for Austin and the man that he is and Jim Bob saying: Father, I pray youll use Austin and Joy together to win more people for your Kingdoms sake than they could apart. After the kiss, they quickly started to rush off before the pastor stopped them to proudly announce: Im honored to present to you for the very first time, Mr and Mrs Austin Martin Forsyth. Joy had spent the build-up to the ceremony trying to avoid her fathers gaze, saying he always manages to make her cry. This is our fifth child to get married,' Jim Bob said later with wife Michelle by his side. I dont think it gets easier, but shes marrying Austin whos just a great guy. Hes a hard worker, hell be a spiritual encourager to her. Theyre the perfect match and were so excited of both of them and this is a great celebration. Can't get enough: They kissed throughout the reception ceremony Yum: Austin hand-fed his blushing bride cake Hey that's more than just the cake: The new husband sucked on his new wife's fingers Jessa meanwhile said: Seeing Joy in her wedding dress its crazy. It makes me wanna smile and be happy, but at the same time makes me wanna cry because my baby sister's all grown up. But it was 10-year-old Jenny Duggar who had the hardest time, and had to be comforted though her tears by Joy before the ceremony. I did the same at all my sisters weddings, Joy admitted. Realizing that life is changing and people grow up and get married. Its hard when youre younger. After cutting the cake, Joy pretended to do a traditional bouquet throw to the single women but instead walked her flowers straight to Kendra as Joe appeared on one knee, nervous asking as he held out a ring: Kendra, will you marry me? Joe! I would love to marry you, she told him, admitting later that she did not actually hear his question above the excited reaction from family and friends around them. Big moment: After cutting the cake, Joy pretended to do a traditional bouquet throw to the single women but instead walked her flowers straight to Kendra as Joe appeared on one knee, nervous asking as he held out a ring: Kendra, will you marry me? 'No kissing': Despite the big moment Austin reminded the two not to share a smooch Acceptance: Kendra told him Joe! I would love to marry you I didnt hear anything but I assumed of course that because he was on one knee he was asking me to marry him, she said, with Joe also admitting: And I didnt hear her when she said yes. Rather than thinking that they stole some of her wedding thunder, Joy insisted of the engagement: I thought it was the greatest idea. I thought it was a great idea too, Austin agreed. Were all one big happy family. The special ended with a trailer for the next wedding special, showing Joe and Kendras big day when they finally married in September. It had earlier shown going through their courtship, including the moment Joe asked Kendras dad, pastor Paul Caldwell, for his blessings for him to propose. And I didnt hear her when she said yes: They both admitted that they didn't hear each other Happy times: Jessa said: 'Were really excited having one of the brothers getting engaged, its been a long, long time its been just girls, one right after the other for so long. Well, thats a big step, replied after a lengthy pause, before telling him: Weve talked for many, many hours and I really feel like the Lords leading in this direction. But I do want to remind you that youre taking one of my most precious gifts, he said with a smile, before telling him: You have my life and my blessing to go further. We really appreciate your faithfulness and good attitude and just the way youve honored my wife and I choices through this whole process. We look forward to hat God is going to do with you two, he said, leading him in prayer. Joe admitted he had a sigh of relief admitting: Anytime a guy goes to ask the father of the bride he wants to marry if he can marry her theres always butterflies in the stomach. You may have to pick her up off the floor. One last kiss: The newky-married couple smooched one last time for their friends and family before heading off to Switzerland for their honeymoon He said later: Were very happy for Joe and Kendra and excited. A little bit taken aback that it happened so quick and so early, but we want them to get on with their life and have a happy and blessed life. Were excited about it for them. Earlier, Kendra had admitted: Joe noticed me first and I didnt really notice him for a while, even when I knew he was interested. When we started talking that was when I was first, Wow, I really like him. Its incredible thinking theres another Duggar wedding just around the corner theyre coming pretty fast, said his sister Jinger Vuolo said. Every three months. Almost there: There was footage shown from the final rehearsals But Jessa stressed: Were really excited having one of the brothers getting engaged, its been a long, long time its been just girls, one right after the other for so long. Joy and Austin, meanwhile, headed off to Switzerland for their honeymoon and also admitted that once back in the States they would have to spend the first days of married life living in a RV after the house Austin was hoping to slip and have ready for them was at least a month off of completion. I was starting to worry that we wouldnt get everything done in time and where we were going to stay, Austin said. So we went to plan B so the family is going to let us use an RV. Thats where we are going stay until we finish the house. He was shown giving a tour of the small living quarters including the master bedroom in the back, which Joy had already started to decorate and make homely. Looking at the bed, Austin smiled: She get left and I get right shes always right. 'More overwhelming than I expected it to be': Joy had been seen with her family going for her final dress fitting Joy, meanwhile, smiled at the prospect of their first home, saying: I think two people can make a home anywhere, as long as theyve got love. Joy had been seen with her family going for her final dress fitting, having admitted that she found picking her dress more overwhelming than I expected it to be because there were so many options and I am so indecisive. I can get nervous if I think about it too much. Seeing her in the finished item, sister Jessa Seewald gushed: Seeing Joy in her finished dress was absolutely amazing. Shes a stunning bride and every single detail was just perfect for her. Im really excited, Im really thrilled with how it turned out, Joy said. I hope he thinks Im pretty when he sees me in my dress. Well have to wait and see, he might think its pretty ugly. Not. Austin will probably cry when he sees me. 'Im going to start crying, because I love that knucklehead right there': During the rehearsal dinner, Austins best man Bobby Ballinger got emotional They were also seen on their rehearsal, with Joy saying: Its crazy to think that this is my last day as a Duggar but Im really excited to see where the Lords going to lead me. Joy also talked excitedly with her husband-to-be about how they would get to kiss for the first time, with Austin replying: Too bad we have to wait until tomorrow. Bummer, Joy smiled shyly. New beginnings: They were gifted something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue including new hard hats with Mr and Mrs on for construction of their home During the rehearsal dinner, Austins best man Bobby Ballinger, who has known him since the were both 9, got emotional as he told everyone: Im going to start crying, because I love that knucklehead right there. Hes going to be a good man to you Joy. But he also joked: I think that God does have a plan, because my beautiful bride is his sister and Austin think I met you for her. They were gifted something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue with an old camping stove, new hard hats with Mr and Mrs on for construction of their home, a box of borrowed kitchen items, and a box of random blue items. Its always hard when another sister moves out, Jana admitted. Its not the same. She originally caused their year-long romance to dramatically come to an end in 2012. Now proving that their fallout is truly water under the bridge, it has been reported that Rosie Fortescue will act as bridesmaid for Millie Mackintosh's impending nuptials to Hugo Taylor. According to The Sun Online , the big day - which will be Millie's second marriage - is set to take place in June 2018 in a plush venue nestled in the Surrey countryside. Scroll down for video Looking forever: Now proving that their fallout is truly water under the bridge, it has been reported that Rosie Fortescue will act as bridesmaid for Millie Mackintosh's impending nuptials to Hugo Taylor The reality star-turned-designer will also have BFF Caggie Dunlop and TV presenter Zara Martin by her side as she walks up the aisle. However an eyebrow has definitely been raised over her choice to have Made in Chelsea star Rosie with her, after she kissed Millie's fiance Hugo in 2012 - which caused them to split. Fans of the E4 show will remember the memorable moment fashionista Millie threw a drink in Hugo's face after she found out he had been seeing her BFF in secret during the second series. Speaking to the publication, a source said about their nuptials: 'Its Millies dream wedding and she cant wait for the big day. Made up: However an eyebrow has definitely been raised over her choice to have Made in Chelsea star Rosie with her, after she kissed Millie's fiance Hugo in 2012 - which caused them to split Memorable: Fans of the E4 show will remember the memorable moment fashionista Millie threw a drink in Hugo's face after she found out he had been seeing her BFF in secret during the second series (Pictured last month with Love Island's Montana Brown) 'Shes been planning the day practically since the day Hugo proposed, and everyones really excited for her. Its going to be a beautiful wedding.' MailOnline have contacted Millie's rep for comment. The couple confirmed their engagement to MailOnline in July a year after rekindling their romance, as speculation surrounded Millie sporting a new rock on her engagement finger in Greece. The news came 14 months after former Made In Chelsea star Millie's divorce was finalised with Professor Green, 33. They previously dated back in 2011 when they met on E4 reality show, Made In Chelsea. But the union was not to last and ended rather dramatically when Millie discovered Hugo had cheated on her with her friend, Rosie Fortescue. Friendship: The reality star-turned-designer will also have BFF Caggie Dunlop and TV presenter Zara Martin (Pictured above) by her side as she walks up the aisle 'Dream': Speaking to the publication, a source said about their nuptials: 'Its Millies dream wedding and she cant wait for the big day' Loved-up: The couple confirmed their engagement to MailOnline in July a year after rekindling their romance, as speculation surrounded Millie sporting a new rock on her engagement finger in Greece At the time, Millie claimed she would always love Hugo, saying in an interview: 'I loved him - those feelings dont disappear but I just always have to remind myself why were not together.' 'I do think that, for the rest of my life, every time I see him, Ill get that feeling in my stomach. I dont think I could ever not get that butterfly feeling. Millie and Professor Green, real name Stephen Manderson, announced their split in February 2016 after just over four years together. In a statement released at the time, they said: 'It is a mutual decision, we still care deeply about each other and would like it to be known that it is on amicable terms and we wish each other well. In the past: Millie and Professor Green, real name Stephen Manderson, announced their split in February 2016 after just over four years together (Pictured in 2013) 'Sensitive': In the wake of the engagement news, thoughts seemed to turn to Millie's ex, when it was claimed that the marriage news was being treated as 'sensitive' Their two-and-a-half-year marriage was dissolved in just 30 seconds in May 2016. They were granted a decree nisi at Central London Family Court, with Millie citing 'unreasonable behaviour' as the reason for their split. In the wake of the engagement news, thoughts seemed to turn to Millie's ex, when it was claimed that the marriage news was being treated as 'sensitive'. Millie and Stephen started dating in November 2011 after the rapper saw her on the cover of men's magazine FHM. The rapper contacted Millie through her agent and they had their first date at the Groucho Club in Soho. Moving on: The rapper has since moved on with model Fae Williams They went public at the BRIT Awards in February 2012, with Stephen proposing on holiday in Paris just over a year later in 2013. The couple tied the knot in a lavish ceremony at Babington House in Frome, Somerset, in September 2013. Earlier this year, Pro Green lashed out at Millie in his new track Eye On The Door, rapping about their lack of sex life, drug use and hinting that cheating was to blame for their split. But in spite of his very public bashing of his ex-wife, the musician admitted that splitting from Millie felt like experiencing a death. Reunited: Meanwhile, the socialite also admitted her relationship with Hugo is completely different to when they dated during their Made In Chelsea years He told the i newspaper in July: 'Of course whether youre happy somethings finished or not, it doesnt change the fact that it does still feel like theres been a death. 'An energy thats always been in your presence is suddenly no longer there and youre an idiot if you think thats not going to affect you.' The rapper has since moved on with model Fae Williams. Meanwhile, the socialite also admitted her relationship with Hugo is completely different to when they dated during their Made In Chelsea years. 'Different': She told Red: 'I'm really happy and we have fun. Our relationship is a totally different thing now' She told Red: 'I'm really happy and we have fun. Our relationship is a totally different thing now. We've known each other for ten years and dated when we were much younger [but] it was a different thing, a whirlwind. 'It was definitely weird dating someone when there was a camera there, but only there for half of what was going on.' And Millie even hinted that she is eyeing a family with Hugo in the future, adding: 'I'd definitely like two kids, but I'm happy to be the baby-sitter for now. 'I'm a godmother and have three pregnant friends. I'm enjoying seeing them go through it.' Mrs Brown's Boys creator Brendan O'Carroll has revealed he was hospitalised amid fears he was suffering a heart attack during filming. While shooting the Christmas special of the BBC comedy, the 62-year-old, who plays the titular character on the show, was rushed to a Glasgow hospital amid fears he was in the grips of a heart attack following a bug. The Mirror report that the Figlas born comic 'though he was a goner' in the midst of the scare before the ambulance informed it was was nothing to do with his heart, and was in fact a 12 hour vomiting bug. Scroll down for video Troubles: Mrs Brown's Boys creator Brendan O'Carroll has revealed he was hospitalised amid fears he was suffering a heart attack during filming Brendan discussed the daunting moment he believed he was suffering a heart attack, during which he asked his wife-of-12 years Jennifer Gibney to dial an ambulance when he was first hit with the symptoms. He said: 'I thought I was having a heart attack. I had this bug and at about 2am I had to wake Jenny up. We were filming the Christmas special up in Glasgow. 'I said to her: "You should call an ambulance". We called the ambulance as we wanted to meet them on the street. When Jenny and I were in the lift we were still on 999. They told her to put her hand on my tonsil, to count my heart beat. 'It was all going on. I had the fright of my life and I thought I was a goner. When I got in the ambulance they said Well it is not your heart and I vomited it out for 12 hours. I had a very violent bug.' Heart attack: While shooting the Christmas special of the BBC comedy, the 62-year-old, who plays the titular character on the show, was rushed to a Glasgow hospital amid fears he was in the grips of a heart attack following a bug Helping hand: Brendan discussed the daunting moment he believed he was suffering a heart attack, during which he asked his wife-of-12 years Jennifer Gibney (pictured together in 2012) to dial an ambulance when he was first hit with the symptoms News of his woes come shortly after his long-time co-star Rory Cowan made the shock decision to quit the show but refused to give the reasons why. The actor, who performed for the last time at Londons O2 on Sunday night, told the Irish Daily Mail that he has been unhappy for some time. He said: 'I hadnt been happy working for the Mrs Browns Boys company for the last 18 months to two years. I feel that 26 years is enough so I decided to go. I told Brendan on June 16 about my decision to leave. Thats when I handed in my notice. 'I was supposed to leave at the end of that week, but Brendan said that would be impossible and asked if Id stay on until the end of the London O2 gigs. So I agreed to that.' On stage star: Mrs Browns Boys started off as a stage show before being picked up by the BBC and becoming a TV smash hit Mrs Browns Boys started off as a stage show before being picked up by the BBC and becoming a TV smash hit. It first aired on the channel in 2011 to huge acclaim and a movie, called Mrs. Brown's Boys D'Movie, was released three years later. Rory said he went for dinner with friends in London after the show but said there had been no backstage party at the O2 because he 'left the way I wanted to go'. He is renowned for undergoing drastic physical transformations for roles. And Christian Bale was barely recognizable when he was spotted on the set of his forthcoming Dick Cheney biopic Backseat alongside co-star Amy Adams in Los Angeles on Monday. The actor, 43, is playing the former Vice President in the upcoming film, which is written and directed by Adam McKay. Christian, is that you? Christian Bale was barely recognizable when he was spotted on the set of his forthcoming Dick Cheney biopic Backseat in Los Angeles on Monday Amazing: Amy Adams, 43, who is playing Cheney's wife Lynne was equally unrecognizable as she filmed scenes for the forthcoming movie Amy, 43, who is playing Cheney's wife Lynne was equally unrecognizable as she filmed alongside him. The pair had previous been spotted in character as the couple's younger selves; but on Monday they both underwent a jaw-dropping make-over to play the power couple in their sixties, when Cheney served under George W Bush. Bale had the look down from his expensive suit and tie to his wire-rimmed glasses; from his much fuller frame to his receding white hair. The dedicated actor has piled on the pounds and undergone an image transformation to take on the role. Amy wore a wine-colored skirt suit, her pale make-up and thinned lips making her an almost perfect match for the now 76-year-old. Spitting image: While she is best known for being the spouse of the former Vice President, Lynne -nee Vincent - is herself an accomplished author and academic (pictured in 2004) Snap: Amy wore a wine-colored skirt suit, her pale make-up and thinned lips making her an almost perfect match for the now 76-year-old While she is best known for being the spouse of the former Vice President, Lynne -nee Vincent - is herself an accomplished author, academic and executive. The film will chronicle Dick's rise to becoming arguably the most powerful Vice President in history, and will examine the effect his policies had on the world. In later years, the politician became the CEO of Halliburton but was most notably known for being in the center of foreign policy which pursued both Afghanistan and Iraq wars. It seems unlikely he shall be cast in a favorable light, as the film is written and directed by Democrat and Bernie Sanders supporter Adam McKay. Notable stars already signed on to the film include Steve Carrell as former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsefeld and Bill Pullman as Gerald Ford's second in command, Nelson Rockefeller. In character: Bale, no stranger to image transformations for roles, had the look down from his expensive suit and tie to his wire-rimmed glasses Sam Rockwell is set to portray the 43rd President, George W. Bush, and Lisa Gay Hamilton will play former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice. Tyler Perry meanwhile has been cast as her predecessor, Colin Powell. No stranger to undergoing an image overhaul, Bale previously demonstrated his commitment to transforming for roles when he tanned and beefed up for American Psycho in 2000 and shed 70lbs for The Machinist in 2004. In 2013, Bale told People that gaining weight for American Hustle was not difficult: 'It's easy to start with ... you're just sitting on your butt and you're eating lots of doughnuts and eating bread and everything like that. 'But you do it for two months and your body starts to rebel against you, it's just saying, "No, please," and your back is aching and there's also some problems with that. 'And then you've got to lose the weight at the end of it, you know? I wish it was simple.' Amy and Christian last graced the silver screen together in the 2013 crime drama American Hustle alongside Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Jeremy Renner. Dedicated to their art: Amy (left in July) and Christian (right in April) have both transformed themselves for their latest, high-profile roles The Great British Bake Off's innuendo-laden commentary has become part of the charm of the show. And on Tuesday's edition of the Channel 4 show, the smut was being flung across the famous tent thanks to a challenge involving regional pasty the Bedfordshire Clanger. The snack - which is a bit like a longer version of the traditional Cornish Pasty - dates back to at least the 19th century and features a suet crust dumpling with a savoury filling at one end and a sweet filling at the other. Scroll down for video Oops! Great British Bake Off contestant Kate suffered an unfortunate baking incident in front of judges Paul and Prue on Tuesday night, during an innuendo-laden episode of GBBO The name of the snack and it's shape led to a string of innuendo from the bakers. Steven left viewers with their mouths agape when he announced 'I've got a huge clanger'. Elsewhere, the phrase 'no-one likes a stodgy clanger' was uttered by judge Prue Leith. Screams erupted around the tent from the contestants concerned about their 'leaking clangers'. Big mistake... Kate was disappointed to see her loaf land on the floor after getting it out of the oven And what about the food? Steven left viewers with their mouths agape when he announced 'I've got a huge clanger' Drama: Kate had a disaster when she was extracting her's from the oven to present to the judges Prue and Paul Hollywood only for it to fall on the floor Five second rule? 'I've literally dropped a clanger,' she gasped as others looked on in shock And Kate had a disaster when she was extracting her's from the oven to present to the judges Prue and Paul Hollywood only for it to fall on the floor. 'I've literally dropped a clanger,' she gasped. Noel Fielding, co-host of the show with Sandi Toksvig, joked 'don't look back in clanger'. Viewers took to Twitter to remark on the cheeky chat on screen. Cheeky: Later in the show, Steven dropped another innuendo when he stated 'no one wants a hot nut in their face' Gags a'plenty: Noel Fielding, co-host of the show with Sandi Toksvig, joked 'don't look back in clanger' 'I've got a huge Clanger! Some #BakeOffInnuendo there! #GBBO #ooherrr,' one person tweeted. Reacting to Kate's situation, someone else posted: 'She's dropped it? She'll have a filthy clanger! #GBBO.' 'Oh dear.... lots of leaks and a floor clanger... it's all too much!! #gbbo,' another joked. 'Don't you just hate it when your clangers are leaking? #GBBO,' joined in one smutty viewer. Naughty: Tuesday's edition of the Channel 4 show, the smut was being flung across the famous tent thanks to a challenge involving regional pasty the Bedfordshire Clanger Rude: The Great British Bake Off's innuendo-laden commentary has become part of the charm of the show 'Ive got a massive clanger. Hold on there, Steve! Bloody hell. This is a family show. #GBBO #Filth,' someone else protested. 'I've got a huge clanger - bet you do daddy,' another person commented. Later in the show, Steven dropped another innuendo when he stated 'no one wants a hot nut in their face'. He's been open about his demons after battling alcoholism for much of his adult life. And Ben Affleck was seen heading for another session at the Rehab Recovery Center in Los Angeles on Tuesday after a turbulent few days, which had seen him issue a public apology after becoming embroiled in a groping scandal. The actor, 45, appeared to be in good spirits as he stepped out of a chauffeured luxury SUV, smiling as he made his way inside the building. Back to it: Ben Affleck was seen heading for another session at the Rehab Recovery Center in Los Angeles on Tuesday after a turbulent few days The father-of-three dressed comfortably in grey sneakers and jeans, a blue leather bomber jacket and a blue Tutankhamen graphic tee. The Oscar-winning star was sporting heavy salt and pepper stubble and wore his short hair unkempt. Affleck has been frequently visiting the center over the past few weeks as he continues to battle his demons after completing a stint in rehab for alcohol addiction in March. He wrote on Facebook at the time: 'I have completed treatment for alcohol addiction; something I've dealt with in the past and will continue to confront. I want to live life to the fullest and be the best father I can be. Battling demons: The actor, 45, appeared to be in good spirits as he stepped out of a chauffeured luxury SUV, smiling as he made his way inside the building Regular visitor: The father-of-three dressed comfortably in grey sneakers and jeans, a blue leather bomber jacket and a blue Tutankhamen graphic tee It's been a trying few days for the actor after he issued a public apology for groping former One Tree Hill star and MTV correspondent Hilarie Burton during an MTV TRL appearance in 2003. Hilarie made her allegations last Tuesday, just hours after Ben took to Twitter to condemn disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein for his alleged sexual assault and harassment scandal. Former Weinstein protegee Ben said he was 'saddened and angry' over the 'sickening' claims. His statement was slammed by a number of people - including Weinstein accuser actress Rose McGowan, who called Ben a liar. Ben was quick to reply, tweeting: 'I acted inappropriately toward Ms. Burton and I sincerely apologize.' The same day make-up artist Annamarie Tendler took to Twitter to claim that Ben 'grabbed her a**' at a Golden Globes party in 2014 and demanded an apology. Happy and relaxed: The Oscar-winning star was sporting heavy salt and pepper stubble and wore his short hair unkempt A source told E! on Thursday that his estranged wife Jennifer Garner 'is very annoyed' with Ben because of the unwanted attention it has brought to their three children. The former couple - who split in 2015 after almost 10 years together - raise daughters Violet, 11, and Seraphina, eight, and son Samuel, five. Ben has not been seen with his girlfriend, Emmy-winning SNL producer Lindsay Shookus, 37, since the scandal erupted. More than 30 women have now come forward with allegations of sexual harassment against Hollywood producer Weinstein, the man once described as 'God' of the film industry. The accusations, including from some of the world's most famous actresses, range from inappropriate massages to rape over a three-decade period. Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Cara Delevingne, Kate Beckinsale, Lea Seydoux, Rose McGowan, Ashley Judd and Rosanna Arquette are among the high-profile names to have come forward. She was rarely seen out of her swimsuit during her stint on Love Island this summer, giving viewers body envy thanks to her perfectly sculpted derriere. And Montana Brown was showing off her best asset in her latest Instagram snap on Tuesday, posting a racy belfie from her exotic Maldives holiday. The reality star, 22, was seen posing in the shallows, wearing a skimpy black swimsuit with a thong cut. Scroll down for video Cheeky: Montana Brown was showing off her best asset in her latest Instagram snap on Tuesday, posting a racy belfie from her exotic Maldives holiday The barely-there one-piece, which also showcased a liberal amount of sideboob, highlighted her perfectly toned rear. The playful beauty captioned her post: 'Tropic like it's hot... Get me back to the Maldives. Another sizzling snapshot showed off her long legs, with the star joking in the caption, 'Roses are red, Violets are blue I'm in the Maldives, I bet you wish you were too'. Looking good: The barely-there one-piece, which also showcased a liberal amount of sideboob, highlighted her perfectly toned rear Her posts were met with mass praise from her fans, who enthused, 'looking amazing', 'girl crushing right now' and 'booty envy' Montana was joined by her pal Georgia Harrison as she soaked up the sun, showing off her sizzling figure in a range of skimpy swimwear on Instagram. The reality star set pulses racing in a neon yellow one-piece as she shot the camera a sultry glance before going on to have some fun with Georgia. Sizzling: Over the weekend, Montana set pulses racing in a neon yellow one-piece Montana, who was primped and preened to perfection, sent temperatures soaring in the sensational swimwear as she relaxed. She cheekily captioned the snap: 'When bae thinks he is winning the argument.... then you win Tag your bae ladies and gents lashes by the lovely @darlingbeauty.' The brunette was then joined by her blonde bombshell pal and the twosome looked in their element as they danced up a storm. Montana switched things up in a minuscule white bikini, which displayed her enviable abs, and accessorised with a stylish choker. Gorgeous girls: The Love Island star was then joined by pal Georgia Harrison and the twosome looked in their element as they danced up a storm Sensational: Montana switched things up in a minuscule white bikini, which displayed her enviable abs, and accessorised with a stylish choker Georgia, who held onto the camera, wore a similar bikini and opted for a purple cover-up below. Montana seems to be relishing her time abroad as she showcased her incredible bikini body last week. Montana, who has recently become ambassador for Pretty Little Thing and has become an MTV news presenter, was no doubt relishing her time off. Blonde bombshell! Georgia, who held onto the camera, wore a similar bikini and opted for a purple cover-up below Beach babe: Montana seems to be relishing her time abroad as she showcased her incredible bikini body last week Ouch! Meanwhile back in the UK, her ex-boyfriend Alex Beattie got a hair transplant after admitting he had been 'extremely insecure' about his hairline for 'years' Meanwhile back in the UK, her ex-boyfriend Alex Beattie revealed he got a hair transplant after admitting he had been 'extremely insecure' about his hairline for years. The personal trainer revealed his bloodied hairline after the surgery, which was later bandaged up and left him with a 'swollen head'. Alex's decision comes after his ex Montana - who he dated for several weeks after they met in the Love Island villa in June - condemned the need for surgery. She is a firm believer of being 'happy in your own skin' and has slammed those who turn to cosmetic surgery to alter their image. Oh dear: The personal trainer revealed his bloodied hairline after the surgery, which was later bandaged up and left him with a 'swollen head' Clash of opinion: Alex's decision comes after his ex Montana - who he dated for several weeks after they met in the Love Island villa in June - condemned the need for surgery Different views: She is a firm believer of being 'happy in your own skin' and has slammed those who turn to cosmetic surgery to alter their image Escape: Montana, who has recently become ambassador for Pretty Little Thing and has become an MTV news presenter, was no doubt relishing her time off Bucking the trend that has seen a slew of reality stars go under the knife, the reality star has exclusively told MailOnline that she thinks turning to surgery is 'just not good' and sets a bad example for younger fans. She said: 'I just think it's not good - especially as quite a lot of us have quite a young following, so people who are under 18. People look up to you and want to copy what you do. 'As soon as you start promoting that, it kind of encourages young people to want to do that and the first thing shouldn't be to change yourself. You should be happy in your own skin without having to get surgery.' The starlet insisted that everybody has 'pros and cons' when it comes to themselves and it is better to realise and accept that. She continued: 'I've got small boobs but a big bum. Some people may have really nice hair, but they might hate their legs. Everyone has got their negatives. BISMARCK, N.D. North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread said Tuesday that he will deny any additional rate increases to individual health insurance premiums next year under the Obama health care law. Godfread said last week that President Donald Trump's decision to halt payments to insurers under the law could potentially raise health insurance costs as much as an additional 10 percent for up to 42,000 North Dakotans. He said Tuesday he won't allow that. In a letter to Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, Medica and Sanford Health Plan, Godfread said "this is an issue that is between insurance carriers and the federal government" and that "it is my duty to look out for those consumers who have had to absorb multiple rounds of increases to their health insurance premiums without receiving any assistance from the federal government." Godfread said in a statement that 2018 health insurance rates previously approved by his department will increase anywhere from roughly 8-22 percent for the 42,000 North Dakotans enrolled in Affordable Care Act-compliant individual plans. Medica said Godfread's move cements its earlier decision to withdraw its individual health plans from the federal marketplace in North Dakota due to uncertainty over the cost-sharing reductions. "We will remain in the North Dakota market but we will not be participating on the federal marketplace in North Dakota," Medica vice president Geoff Bartsh said. Sanford Health Plan President Kirk Zimmer said in a statement that the carrier is still weighing all of its options in deciding whether to continue participating in the federal marketplace in North Dakota. "We have to balance our decision on what's best for all our members," Zimmer said. "There are a lot of ideas being floated that may impact how we move ahead." Blue Cross Blue Shield said it will stay in the federal marketplace, and absorb the loss of the federal payments. Spokeswoman Andrea Dinneen said the company understands that "additional (rate) increases at this point would cause disruption for consumers in North Dakota." Blue Cross also encouraged Congress to work toward a bipartisan solution to fund the payments "and ensure market stability." Key senators reached a deal Tuesday on resuming the payments that Trump has blocked. The president spoke favorably about the bipartisan compromise but it's still likely to face opposition in Congress. She's been waking up at 3am every weekday for the past decade until Tuesday. And Lisa Wilkinson's husband Peter FitzSimons has revealed how they spent their joyful first evening after she sensationally quit Today on Monday. Speaking to Nova's Fitzy and Wippa on Wednesday, Peter revealed the pair were 'up talking til midnight', describing the experience as 'fantastic'. 'We were talking until midnight and it was just fantastic': Peter FitzSimons reveals joyful first evening with wife Lisa Wilkinson after she quit Today over wage disparity On Monday evening, Lisa shocked everyone when she confirmed her departure from Today after contract negotiations broke down. The veteran reporter had reportedly been asking for the same amount of money as her male co-host, Karl Stefanovic. Speaking to Nova breakfast hosts Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald and Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli, Peter explained the couple had celebrated Lisa's career change by spending time together as a family. Swift departure: Lisa shocked everyone when she confirmed her departure from Today after contract negotiations broke down 'We had dinner last night with the kids': Peter explained the couple had celebrated Lisa's career change by spending time together as a family 'We had dinner last night with the kids and it was interesting,' Peter said. 'I'd forgotten - and I bet your wives have forgotten - the pleasure of being with your partner when somebody doesn't have to get up at 3am. 'We were talking til midnight and it was just fantastic.' Peter told Fitzy and Wippa Lisa was much more relaxed knowing she didn't have to go to the fast-paced job early in the morning. Less on her mind: Peter told Fitzy and Wippa Lisa was much more relaxed knowing she didn't have to go to the fast-paced job early in the morning 'Your wives would be exactly the same in that every weeknight you go, ''well it's lovely to be with you, but I tell you what I've got something on my mind, because tomorrow I am interviewing someone or doing something'',' he explained. The Fairfax Media columnist said the couple had more plans for the week and might be going to the movies on Wednesday night. 'It has obviously been a very intense couple of days is all I will say,' Peter added. It has been said that he brushes his teeth up to five times a day. But Matthew McConaughey's pearly whites weren't exactly in top form on his latest outing. The 47-year-old actor was spotted arriving for a departing flight out of LAX Airport in Los Angeles on Wednesday. Not all-white, all-white, all-white! Matthew McConaughey was spotted arriving for a departing flight out of LAX Airport in Los Angeles on Wednesday as one of his front teeth were discolored Perhaps he had lost a tooth cap as it was there where he smiled revealing that one of his front teeth was actually discolored. Matthew seemed to be in good spirits as always as he grinned from ear-to-ear while exiting an elevator. He was dressed for comfort in a navy blue double-breasted coat, baggy grey trousers, and beat-up brown leather shoes. Keeping cool: The 47-year-old actor seemed to be in good spirits as always as he grinned from ear-to-ear while exiting an elevator The Oscar-winner accessorized with a grey backpack strapped to his shoulder along with black sunglasses. His long brown locks were set and tucked behind his ear as he showed off his pearly whites with the exception of one. It has been previously claimed that McConaughey takes three showers a day and brushes his teeth five times a day. 'It's a wrap!' The bongo-beating Texan had gained a bit of weight to play blue-collar factory worker Richard Wershe Sr. in Yann Demange's (M) drug-trafficking drama White Boy Rick McConaughey has also gained a bit of weight to play blue-collar factory worker Richard Wershe Sr. in French filmmaker Yann Demange's drug-trafficking drama White Boy Rick. The FBI flick - also starring Jennifer Jason Leigh, Bruce Dern, and Piper Laurie - hits US theaters January 26 and UK theaters February 2. Matthew previously demonstrated his commitment to shape-shifting when he dropped 47lbs for Dallas Buyers Club in 2013, and packed on 45lbs with 'beer and cheeseburgers' for last year's Gold. They bid an emotion farewell on Sunday after being eliminated from this year's Strictly Come Dancing. But breakfast host Charlotte Hawkins and her dance partner Brendan Cole were reunited on Tuesday night as they attended the Best Heroes awards in London. The pair seemed to be in good spirits as they posed for photos together, with Charlotte rocking a fabulous metallic halterneck dress. Scroll down for video Back together: Strictly duo Charlotte Hawkins and Brendan Cole reunited on Tuesday night for the Best Heroes awards Brendan looked dapper in a black suit for the evening, which celebrates inspirational and courageous people. The pair had appeared on Charlotte's Good Morning Britain earlier in the day, with Brendan addressing circling rumours around his future on the show. After appearing to engage in a spat with head judge Shirley Ballas live on the show, fans began to wonder if the OG Strictly pro would no longer appear after this series. A source told The Sun: 'He loves being a part of the show, but his lack of promotion and clashes with judges this year have led top bosses to wonder how long hell stick around for. 'They dont want him to leave. Deep down, Brendan doesnt want to either but options are being weighed up.' Dynamic duo: Charlotte and Brendan posed together at the awards event, after Brendan appeared on Good Morning Britain to address rumours that he may be departing Strictly Night out: Former Strictly pros Ola and James Jordan also appeared at the awards together, with Ola rocking a stylish cream lace minidress Glamorous: Saira Khan (L) rocked a classy black ensemble, while Lizzie Cundy (R) went for a more angelic look in an ivory gown Loved-up: Former Love Islanders Marcel Somerville and Gabby Allen appeared every inch the happy couple at the awards which celebrated inspirational and courageous people But Brendan appeared to silence the rumours, saying: 'Every year I have this argument with myself in my head. 'I love the show, I love being on it. I said at the time I'm going to miss this as I'm going to miss going into the studio with Charlotte. 'I said this is one of the best series I've ever had. It depends if the BBC wants me . Every year it's the same thing... if I'm ready and available and I want to do it and I'm inspired to do it, I will.' Big night out! Loose Women stars Carol McGiffin (R) and Lisa Maxwell (L) enjoyed a drink upon their arrival Couples snap: Vanessa Feltz brought her long-term partner Ben Ofoedu to the evening, rocking a fabulous deep blue dress Host with the most: Eamonn Holmes was the presenter for the evening Glamour girl: Anthea Turner rocked a sensational black look with mesh detailing Girls about town: Former Strictly star Chizzy Akudolu (L) chose a relaxed long length kimono over her dress, while Gogglebox star Sandi Bogle went all-out glam in a gold gown Stand-out: Italian chef Aldo Zilli rocked an eccentric royal blue blazer as he attended the event with his wife Nikki Also in attendance at the awards in London's St. Ermins Hotel were former Strictly pros James and Ola Jordan, as well as Love Island couple Marcel Somerville and Gabby Allen. X Factor hopefuls Talia Dean, Matt Linnen and Kevin Davy White also posed together on the red carpet, along with actress Chizzy Akudolu and Gogglebox star Sandi Bogle. The celebrities in attendance enjoyed cocktails at the event and a performance by magician and Britain's Got Talent champion Richard Jones. Hopefuls: X Factor contestants Kevin Davy White, Talia Dean and Matt Linnen (L-R) posed together ahead of this weekend's Judges Houses Entertainer: BGT winner Richard Jones provided entertainment for the evening with a magic performance United: The celebrities came together to celebrate inspirational people (L-R James Jordan, Ola Jordan, Anthea Turner, Lizzie Cundy, Angie Best, Callum Best) Glam exit: Marcel left the event hand in hand with his lady Gabby Ciggie break: Lizzie had a quick smoke as she left the show Check me out! Talia Dean posed for the cameras upon her exit Goofball: Sandi made a funny face for the cameras as she left in her car Dance kick! Chizzy posed with a male companion outside the venue Hometime: James reached for his wifes hand as they left the awards event together Advertisement She's the carefree glamour model known for her risque outfits and raunchy selfies. But Imogen Anthony's been shooting racy pictures of herself in a new location of late - the $5,000 a week three-level Sydney waterfront home she shares with boyfriend, Kyle Sandilands. From languishing nude in the bathtub, to playing with one of the couple's dogs in the spacious lounge room and posing with a cocktail against a backdrop of uninterrupted ocean views, the 26-year-old looks to be enjoying her love nest. A Hollywood-style ensuite and spa, three levels, games and music rooms and 'spellbinding views' from its clifftop position: Inside Kyle Sandilands and Imogen Anthony's $5,000 a week Sydney mansion 'Exquisitely private': The polarising pair have reportedly settled into this 'exquisitely private,' $5,000 a week waterfront pad in Mosman's 'usually quiet' Burran Avenue The couple count millionaire horse breeder John Messara among their neighbours in the flash Mosman suburb. The current weekly rent hasnt been confirmed, but according to Core Logic the last three rental contracts were for $5,000 per week. Prior to that, it was rented for between $3,000 and $4,500, after it sold for $9,875,000 in 2008. And what better place for Kyle, his scantily-clad, model girlfriend and their collection of luxury cars to call home than this five-bedroom, four-bathroom abode - steeped in controversial history. The tri-level property was owned by disgraced HIH founder Ray Williams, according to Fairfax. They added: 'The property featured in the corporate collapse of the insurance giant when it was revealed Williams' associate Brad Cooper agreed to pay $5.6 million for the Mosman home.' The publication also noted that the current owner was listed as Shelley Kathleen Wilson, the wife of 'secretive' professional gambler Zeljko Ranogajec. Kyle and Imogen enjoy a 'Hollywood Style,' Master Suite at the property. Suite life! So what makes it so Hollywood? How about the all-black marbled ensuite and adjoining spa, featuring his and her basins, allowing Kyle to get up early for radio and perform his feasibly extensive morning routine without disturbing Imogen Bathing beauty: Kyle and Imogen enjoy a 'Hollywood Style,' Master Suite at the property Plenty of choice! Although she could choose one of the other four bedrooms, which all feature remarkably spacious wardrobes and noise dampening carpets Throw in an extra kitchen! The abode also offers separate dining rooms for formal and casual gatherings, and a fully stocked games room with its own kitchen So what makes it so Hollywood? How about the all-black marbled ensuite and adjoining spa, featuring his and her basins. Now Kyle can get up for his 6am radio start and perform his feasibly extensive morning routine without disturbing sleeping Imogen. Although she could choose one of the other four bedrooms, which all feature remarkably spacious wardrobes and noise dampening carpets. Breathtaking! According to its Domain profile, the pad is an 'exquisitely private waterfront home,' that enjoys 'spellbinding views spanning the full breadth of Middle Harbour' The ideal shooting location? Imogen has shared plenty of snaps of herself in the spacious home How private? Every room in the abode features stunning water views, and although private, doesn't appear to boast potential issues for any extra-savvy, boat-owning paparazzi, who may well be able to see right in The abode also offers separate dining rooms for formal and casual gatherings, and a fully stocked games room with its own kitchen. According to Domain, the pad is an 'exquisitely private waterfront home,' that enjoys 'spellbinding views spanning the full breadth of Middle Harbour.' Plent of room for horsing around! One of the neighbours, according to the publication, is millionaire horse breeder John Messara, although there's no indication it's him who made the alleged complaint Steeped in history: The tri-level property was owned by disgraced HIH founder Ray Williams Heavily featured! They added: 'The property featured in the corporate collapse of the insurance giant when it was revealed Williams' associate Brad Cooper agreed to pay $5.6 million for the Mosman home' The listing concluded: 'Enjoy the crashing waves on the rocks beneath its high majestic, unbeatable cliff top position.' Every room in the abode features stunning water views, and although private, doesn't appear to boast potential issues for any extra-savvy, boat-owning paparazzi, who may well be able to see right in. Judging by Kyle's unfiltered discussions of the couple's private affairs on national radio, any takers may well be in for quite the interesting show. Philippine military chief General Eduardo Ano (C) holds an image of Isnilon Hapilon, next to Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (R) showing an image of Omarkhayam Maute in Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao on October 16, 2017 The reported death of Islamic State's top leader in Southeast Asia is a major blow to the jihadists but analysts warn it remains a potent threat, with battle-hardened fighters set to return from the Middle East. IS's regional head Isnilon Hapilon was said to have been killed early Monday in the southern Philippines during a military offensive to end the months-long siege of the city of Marawi, which has cost hundreds of lives. The military said the leader -- who was on the US "most wanted terrorists" list -- died in a dawn offensive alongside Omarkhayam Maute, who allied with Hapilon to plot the takeover of the city. IS-supporting gunmen had overrun the predominantly Catholic country's main Muslim city in May following a foiled attempt by security forces to arrest Hapilon. Hapilon, a key figure in Philippine kidnap-for-ransom outfit Abu Sayyaf, emerged as leader of IS in Southeast Asia in 2016 when a video appeared showing militants from the group urging extremists to unite under his leadership. Omarkhayam Maute was a leader of the Maute group, a ragtag outfit that emerged from a decades-old Muslim separatist rebellion on the southern island of Mindanao. His group also pledged allegiance to IS and joined forces with Hapilon to overrun Marawi. Hapilon and Maute were the final two extremist leaders holding out against a military offensive to oust the militants from Marawi. Last month Abdullah Maute -- another key leader of the Maute group and Omarkhayam's brother -- was killed in fighting. Hapilon was key to IS's efforts to establish a base in Southeast Asia as the jihadists increasingly lose ground in the Middle East. His reported killing is undoubtedly a blow for the jihadists, analysts said. - 'Symbolic blow' - His death is "a significant operational and symbolic blow to ISIS-linked groups in Mindanao and to ISIS Central in Syria as well", said Kumar Ramakrishna, a terrorism expert from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, using another name for the group. But he cautioned that it was far from the end of IS in the strife-torn southern Philippines or Southeast Asia. "Just because the Marawi siege is coming to an end does not mean the threat is over. ISIS-linked militants there will regroup... and lay low for a while, while rebuilding their strength," he said. He said a Malaysian militant involved in the Marawi siege, Mahmud Ahmad -- would if he is still alive likely rise up to lead the IS-linked fighters in the southern Philippines and stay in contact with the jihadists in the Middle East. Mahmud Ahmad is reported to be a university lecturer in his home country who was in charge of raising finances from abroad for the jihadists and recruitment. It is not clear how many IS-supporting militants there are in Southeast Asia, a region of more than 600 million people, but many local militant outfits have pledged allegiance to the group. Hundreds of militants are believed to have flocked to the Middle East to fight with IS -- particularly from Indonesia, which has the world's biggest Muslim population, and the Philippines. Sidney Jones, head of Jakarta-based security think-tank the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, warned authorities now faced a growing threat of battle-hardened fighters returning to Southeast Asia as the noose closes on IS in the Middle East, with their former stronghold of Raqa close to being captured. Authorities have been particularly concerned about a Southeast Asian unit of IS fighters in Syria, Khatibah Nusantara. "I think the attention is going to shift back again to the return of fighters from Syria and Iraq," she said. A Palestinian youth celebrates in Gaza after rival factions Hamas and Fatah reached a deal on ending a decade-long split on October 12, 2017 The Palestinian Authority's top official for border crossings visited the Gaza Strip on Monday, after Hamas agreed to hand over control of the borders under a landmark reconciliation deal. The two sides signed a reconciliation agreement in Egypt last week aimed at handing control of the Gaza Strip back to the PA a decade after Fatah and Hamas fought a near civil war. Nazmi Muhanna told journalists that he had been sent by president Mahmud Abbas to implement the "first step" in the reconciliation agreement, "the taking over of the crossings." He said he was hopeful that in talks with Hamas they would agree on handing over the borders quickly. Hamas has controlled Gaza since seizing it in a 2007 near civil war with Abbas's Fatah. The Palestinian Authority's top official for border crossings, Nazmi Muhanna, arrives at the Erez border crossing in the northern Gaza Strip on October 16, 2017 The conflict followed an electoral dispute after parliamentary polls won by the Islamist movement. The border crossings are seen as a key test case as to whether the reconciliation agreement will succeed. They are meant to be handed over to the PA by the beginning of November ahead of the full transfer of power in December. Multiple previous reconciliation attempts have failed. Gaza borders both Egypt and Israel, but they have been largely sealed off by the two countries in recent years, citing security concerns around Hamas. Federica Mogherini said Monday that she would urge US lawmakers not to pull out of the nuclear deal with Iran during a visit in early November The EU is to dispatch its chief diplomat Federica Mogherini to Washington next month to fight for the Iran nuclear deal after US President Donald Trump threatened to tear it up. EU foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg on Monday joined a chorus of international support for the landmark 2015 accord, warning that Trump's hardline stance jeopardised efforts to find a peaceful solution to the nuclear crisis with North Korea. Trump caused alarm across the Atlantic with a belligerent speech on Friday in which he stopped short of pulling out of the agreement but warned he could do so at any time, restating his belief that the deal was letting Iran off the hook. He left it to the US Congress to decide whether to reimpose sanctions that were lifted in return for Tehran abandoning its nuclear ambitions. President Donald Trump said the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran is no longer in the US national interest Mogherini, the EU's foreign policy head, said she would "be in Washington in early November" to urge US lawmakers not to pull out of the deal, known officially as the JCPOA, which was negotiated with Iran over 12 painstaking years by the US, Britain, France, China, Germany and Russia. Ditching the deal when Tehran has repeatedly been certified as keeping up its end of the bargain by UN inspectors would send a signal to North Korea that negotiating with the international community is a waste of time, EU ministers fear. "Clearly the ministers are concerned about the fact that messages on the JCPOA might affect negatively the possibility of opening negotiations or opening even the space for negotiations with the DPRK," Mogherini told reporters after the bloc's 28 foreign ministers held talks in Luxembourg. - 'Military confrontation' - German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said Trump's hardline stance risked dragging the world back to a "military confrontation" with Iran. "The threatened termination of the deal with Iran of course undermines the credibility of such international treaties," he said. The Luxembourg meeting will sign off on a new package of EU sanctions aimed at punishing Pyongyang for its recent nuclear and ballistic missile tests and drying up revenue streams it needs for its weapons programmes. The EU hopes economic pressure will help bring the North to the bargaining table, but Mogherini said that weakening the Iran deal would make it harder to persuade the North to talk. "Obviously any step that fragilises the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture elsewhere makes our work more difficult on DPRK," she said, referring to the North's official name of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The warnings from Europe come after US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson argued that Trump's stance sent a message to North Korea that Washington would insist on a "very demanding agreement" with Pyongyang. The leaders of France, Britain and Germany gave a rebuke to Trump in a joint statement on Friday which said the deal remained "in our shared national security interest". Russia and China also voiced their support for the agreement. The UN's atomic agency has repeatedly certified that Iran is sticking to its technical requirements under the accord, but Trump has insisted that the "fanatical regime" in Tehran is not living up to the "spirit" of the deal. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian warned that any rupture would be "extremely damaging". - Intense lobbying - EU officials have already been lobbying members of Congress not to turn their backs on the accord, which was endorsed unanimously by the UN Security Council, and Mogherini, touted as a Nobel Peace Prize candidate for her work on the deal, had already delivered an angry retort to Trump on Friday. The Iranian nuclear agreement "It is clearly not in the hands of any president of any country in the world to terminate an agreement of this sort. The president of the United States has many powers (but) not this one," she said. Diplomats say that European powers share some of Trump's concerns about Iran's activities not covered by the nuclear deal -- notably its ballistic missile programme and involvement in numerous Middle East conflicts, including the war in Syria. But they say these should be dealt with in other forums and warn it would be a calamitous mistake to sacrifice the achievement of the nuclear deal. A man puts his hand on the forehead of a man allegedly shot by police on the sidelines of Monday's protest in Kisumu A young man was shot dead in western Kenya on Monday as hundreds of opposition supporters again took to the streets demanding reforms ahead of a presidential election, witnesses told AFP. Police teargassed a large crowd of protesters in the opposition stronghold of Kisumu, who set tyres alight, blocked roads and pelted policemen with rocks as they kicked off daily protests just 10 days ahead of the election. One protester, Michael Odiambo, 21, said he had seen police gun down a young man, whose body was also seen by an AFP photographer. "He was running to hide himself from police. A policeman just pointed a gun at him and shot him from a distance. He was shot in the neck," he said. The boy's mother Caroline Okello said her son, Michael, was only 18 and was not involved in the protest. "He had gone to buy ice cream when he was hit by a bullet," she said. Some witnesses said they believed he was selling ice cream, rather than buying it. President Uhuru Kenyatta said police had allowed protesters to rally in the centre of Kisumu, despite this being banned last week. "And when they realized police are not intervening, they started throwing stones at the police. What do you expect of that. Aren't police allowed to also protect themselves?" On Friday two protesters were shot dead by police in the town of Bondo, the rural home of opposition leader Raila Odinga some 50 kilometres (30 miles) from Kisumu. In Nairobi, a small crowd of protesters was swiftly dispersed. A local human rights group said 37 people died in the immediate aftermath of the August 8 election that was later annulled by the Supreme Court which ordered a re-run. A joint report by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International released Monday said it had confirmed 33 deaths at the hands of police. Kenya's police chief Joseph Boinnet said this report was "totally misleading and based on falsehoods", adding police were only aware of 12 deaths which they were investigating. The latest protests come as Kenya is mired in confusion over a presidential election that is due to take place on October 26. Odinga last week announced his withdrawal from the race, arguing that this legally forces the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to begin the whole election from scratch. He is hoping to win more time for reforms, after the Supreme Court annulled the first election for irregularities in the counting process and mismanagement by the IEBC. But the IEBC appears to be pushing forward with plans for the vote, saying only that Odinga had yet to submit the required form to officially pull out of the race. Odinga is hoping to maintain pressure from the street, increasing protests from three times a week to every day. Israel faced heavy criticism of settlement construction from US president Barack Obama's administration, but that has not been the case with his successor Donald Trump Israeli authorities on Monday approved permits for 31 settler homes in Hebron in the occupied West Bank, the first such approvals for the flashpoint city since 2002, the Peace Now NGO said. An Israeli committee approved construction permits for the 31 units, Anat Ben Nun of Peace Now told AFP. Several hundred Israeli settlers live in the heart of Hebron under heavy military guard among some 200,000 Palestinians. The approvals are among some 4,000 settler home plans to be advanced as part of a push to greatly boost settlement growth, an Israeli official has said. Peace Now, which closely monitors settlement construction, said a planning council meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday is expected to have more than 2,000 units on the agenda. Settlement building in the occupied West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem is considered illegal under international law. It is also seen as a major obstacle to peace as the settlements are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition government leans heavily on settlers and their supporters to maintain its thin parliamentary majority. Israel faced heavy criticism of settlement construction from US president Barack Obama's administration, but that has not been the case with his successor Donald Trump. The Supreme Court is set to rule on whether US law enforcement should be allowed to demand evidence stored overseas The US Supreme Court announced Monday it will hear a landmark privacy case which sees the Trump administration up against computing giant Microsoft. It will examine whether US law enforcement should be allowed to access evidence held on servers overseas during an investigation. It comes after Microsoft refused to hand over emails during a US drug trafficking investigation on the basis the police's warrant did not extend to Ireland, where the messages were stored. US authorities strongly criticized Microsoft's refusal, arguing "hundreds if not thousands of investigations... will be hampered." The legal battle, launched in 2013, has already endured two rounds -- with a judge initially ordering Microsoft to hand over all related emails in 2014. Microsoft released all of the information stored in the United States, but refused to do the same for emails hosted in Ireland. It then got its revenge in July 2016 -- as federal appeals court judges in New York acknowledged allowing US law enforcement to demand evidence stored abroad would open the door for foreign governments to demand data held in the US. The Supreme Court hearing is set to begin in early 2018, with a ruling expected by the end of June. GLACIER NATIONAL PARK The race to shore up the charred rock walls, chimneys and gables of Sperry Chalets dormitory before winter is done. The iconic dormitory building was gutted in a fire on Aug. 31. A 10-person national park crew faced freezing temperatures, rain and snow over a two-week stint to brace the walls, sandwich the gables with plywood, and surround the chimney with collars of wood in an effort to protect the more than century-old structure from wind and snow. The crew was flown off the 6,500-foot elevation site Monday. The stabilization work that was completed on the structure may not have been possible without the financial help of more than 700 donors from nearly every state and from countries as far away as Australia and the Ukraine. The fundraising effort to stabilize the chalet was spearheaded by the Glacier National Park Conservancy. Donors offered as little as $10 to as much as several thousand dollars to help pay for the stabilization work. The conservancy was ready to help from day one, said Glacier National Parks spokesperson Lauren Alley. We were up against winter and we needed to be able to put people up there quickly. The generous donors helped make that happen. Every year, the conservancy works directly with Glacier Park officials to raise funds for as many as 50 different projects outside of what the park budget would allow. The conservancys marketing director, Amy Dempster, said finding the funding for the stabilization work on the chalet was outside that annual process. From the very beginning, it was really clear how many people wanted to jump right in and help with the project right away, Dempster said. The conservancy set out to raise $106,200 to help pay for the engineering and materials as well as the helicopter costs for transport. As of Monday, the Sperry Action Fund had $111,200. The National Park Service chipped in another $18,500 to help pay for the effort. Whatever money is raised beyond the conservancys initial goal will be set aside to pay for work specific to the Sperry Chalet next year. While its too early to know for sure what those projects will include, Dempster said she knows for certain the trail leading to the chalet that needs a significant amount of work. The decision on how that money will be spent next year will happen after the park makes its annual requests for grants. No one knows for sure what the future holds for what remains of the Sperry Chalet dormitory. As far as I know right now, they did get everything done that they had hoped to accomplish as far as stabilizing the structure, Alley said. The chalet is located in a pretty vulnerable location. We had a large avalanche that did some damage a couple of years ago. "There is always the possibility of unexpected events to occur. Once spring comes, engineers and others will take a hard look at the remaining structure to determine its future. Alley said the park service knows that people have an attachment to the chalet, including even those who havent yet been able to travel there. For a lot of people, it does continue to feel like theyve lost a close friend or a family member, Alley said. We know that its really important to people. As soon as possible next year, well do a deeper assessment of whats left there before making a decision on how to move forward. If people had not stepped forward to pay for the heavy beams, plywood and the cost of getting it all to the site, the chance to rebuild the structure may have been lost forever. Dempster said she saw photographs Monday of the crew preparing to leave. The snow looked really deep, Dempster said. If they hadnt been able to get in there quickly and get the work accomplished, there might not have been another opportunity to save it. People march as they participate in the '#NoMuslimBanEver' rally in downtown Los Angeles, California on October 15, 2017 Rights groups seeking the suspension of President Donald Trump's latest version of a controversial travel ban took their case before a federal judge on Monday. Continuing a long-running legal battle, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and others sought an injunction against the ban they argue discriminates against Muslims. "We need a strong ruling on the merits that says discrimination against Muslims is un-American," argued the ACLU of Maryland, the state neighboring Washington where the hearing took place. In defense of Trump's ban, Department of Justice attorneys cited national security and said immigration matters fall largely under presidential authority. Trump issued a new executive order last month to replace an expiring 90-day temporary ban on travelers from the Muslim-majority nations of Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Iran, Somalia and Libya. After a series of court challenges and appeals to that order, his September decree removed Sudan but added Chad and North Korea. Citizens of those countries are forbidden from entering the US for national security reasons. It also banned Venezuelan officials from certain key ministries and government agencies, along with their families. ACLU executive director Anthony Romero has said the new ban "is still a Muslim ban at its core." US District Judge Theodore Chuang, who heard Monday's arguments, suspended a previous version of the executive decree on March 16, taking into account Trump's history of anti-Muslim rhetoric. Chuang did not say when he would render his decision but is expected to issue it quickly. Lawyers say a fresh suspension of the order could be more difficult to obtain, as Muslims appear less directly targeted due to the inclusion of North Korea and Venezuela. The restrictions laid out in the new decree are set to go into effect in full on Wednesday. Florida has declared a state of emergency ahead of a speech by white nationalist leader Richard Spencer Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency Monday in northern Florida ahead of a speech by white supremacist leader Richard Spencer, who was involved in a march in August that ended in violent clashes. Spencer, a leader of the so-called "alt-right" movement, is due to give a speech Thursday at the University of Florida in Gainesville, a town of some 130,000. Saying there was an "imminent" threat of a potential emergency as a result, Scott explained that the emergency declaration will ensure that security forces have all the necessary resources at their disposition. "We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority," Scott said, adding that local authorities had requested the extra help. "This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe." Spencer was involved in and spoke at a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia in August that triggered a weekend of clashes. A 32-year-old woman was killed when a car plowed into counter-protesters, and two police officers died in a helicopter crash as they were responding to the violence. The University of Florida agreed to host Spencer in the name of free speech, but indicated he was not invited to give the talk. The 39-year-old white supremacist's group paid $10,564 to rent the space, which will go toward some $500,000 the school is expected to pay to boost campus security. A group of students early Monday protested Spencer's planned appearance, asking the school to scrap his talk. "We encourage you to speak up with your voices in support of our proudly diverse community and the values of this institution," said Chief Linda Stump-Kurnick, assistant vice president of public and environmental safety at the school. "We also encourage you to avoid the event. Don't let the University of Florida be defined by Richard Spencer." According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, which monitors US hate groups, Spencer "advocates for an Aryan homeland for the supposedly dispossessed white race and calls for 'peaceful ethnic cleansing' to halt the 'deconstruction' of European culture." A blackboard stands at the entrance to the India Club restaurant in London on October 16, 2017 Plans to renovate a historic and beloved Indian restaurant in central London are causing a stir, pitting the developers against high profile defenders, including intellectuals, Anglo-Indian businessmen and lawmakers from both countries. The India Club, a restaurant and bar on the Strand near London's West End, is trying to use its storied history to block proposals by owners Marston Properties to turn the seven storey building into an upmarket boutique hotel. "This is a very historic place, we haven't changed anything," Yadgar Marker, the club's current director, told AFP during a recent lunchtime dosa -- an Indian pancake -- and various curry dishes flew out the kitchen. "Even these tabletops are from the early '50s... It's like a museum," he said. The club was set up in its current location by Krishna Menon, India's first High Commissioner to Britain, in the early 1950s, and counted Jawaharlal Nehru, the country's inaugural prime minister, among its founding members, Marker said. People eat lunch inside the India Club restaurant in London on October 16, 2017 It has served as a meeting place for writers, intellectuals and politicians, Marker wrote earlier this month to Westminster Council, the local authority in charge of planning decisions. Marston Properties submitted its application on September 8 to Westminster Council to partially demolish and extend the building. It currently houses a bakery and convenience store on the ground floor and the India Club and Hotel Strand Continental on the upper levels. - Heritage status? - Marker, who has run the club and hotel for the last 20 years, said he was "quite surprised" to learn of the plans in an email from the company. With their seven-year lease set to expire in 2019, he fears it will mean the end of the club. The club has applied for the building to receive protected status from Historic England, which recommends which sites of cultural value the British government should designate. A 'save India Club' poster is pictured inside the India Club restaurant in London on October 16, 2017 A spokesman for the public body confirmed it had visited the club earlier this month, and would make a decision on whether to recommend listing it by January 19, 2018. Simon Marshall of Marston Properties told AFP it was cooperating with Historic England "to establish the true heritage links of this building." He said the company had commissioned its own independent historical research into the club. "The extent of (the) heritage links... are not in fact particularly clear," he added. Marshall stressed no final decision had been made to redevelop building. - Cultural 'cleansing' of London - Loyal longtime customers have been voicing their support. A petition launched by the club had garnered over 14,000 signatures by Monday. "It means the world to generations of Indians," said Kalyan Thapa, a patron since the 1960s, as he ate with friends there on Monday. A staff member exits the kitchen inside the India Club restaurant in London on October 16, 2017 "You can't knock it down and erase history." High profile fans including sculptor Anish Kapoor, writer Will Self and Indian lawmaker Shashi Tharoor, have also leapt to its defence, writing letters of support that Marker has sent on to Westminster Council. "I think the loss of the club would constitute another step-up in the social, ethnic and cultural 'cleansing' of central London's commercial environment," Self told AFP. "Already, smaller and more diverse businesses are being lost from the West End in droves, it creates an arid, aseptic environment in which every cubic foot of space feels commoditised." National Gallery of Art senior conservator of paintings Michael Swicklik, in front of "Young Girl Reading" by Jean-Honore Fragonard For decades, she was thought to have started out as a man. But a sketch uncovered at an obscure Parisian auction in 2012 triggered groundbreaking research that revealed the original painting beneath Jean-Honore Fragonard's "Young Girl Reading" to be a woman gazing outward. "The drawing pointed out this likely inaccuracy," said Michael Swicklik, senior conservator at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, adjusting his magnifying glasses to examine the luminous 250-year-old portrait of a girl in a bright lemon dress absorbed in her book. Swicklik was part of a trio of experts who used techniques akin to those NASA deployed on its Mars rovers to dispel any doubt the work belonged to a boldly experimental series by a young Fragonard, just coming into his own two decades before the French Revolution. There is no significant record from the period of the artist's legendary "Fantasy Figures," created around 1769, which Paris Louvre senior curator Guillaume Faroult described to AFP as "one of the absolute masterpieces in the history of painting." Even less was known about "Young Girl Reading," whose profile view had relegated her to the periphery of the series. "Young Girl Reading" by Jean-Honore Fragonard is seen at the National Gallery of Art's painting conservation studio, where conservators examine and touch up other priceless works When the painting was restored in 1985, experts erroneously concluded a man lay beneath based on x-ray imaging. But today, researchers have many more tools at their disposal, and the National Gallery's team was able to confirm suspicions aroused by the newly discovered sketch of the series. "That we could actually then re-examine the painting through these new techniques and prove that it was inaccurate and how inaccurate it was, and actually simulate what it looked like, was very exciting for a conservator," Swicklik said, gesturing at the unframed painting in the museum's conservation studio as colleagues around him worked on other gems. - Shrouded in mystery - The fantasy figures portray members of Fragonard's social circle dressed in extravagant masquerade style and looking out in engaging, theatrical poses. Fragonard, known for highly decorative, veiled eroticism in works like "The Swing," highlighted more minute details here in the women than the men, using the back of his paintbrush to evoke collar creases. National Gallery of Art senior conservator of paintings Michael Swicklik speaks about "Young Girl Reading" The girl's profile view had relegated her to the margins of the series, despite the similar dress, light source and frenetic brushstrokes applied "alla prima" (wet on wet paint) with virtuosic ease and agility. But the sketched vignette matching the portrait showed the subject facing the viewer. "It was not a painting about which we imagined making further discoveries," said Yuriko Jackall, the museum's 18th century French painting expert who enlisted the help of Swicklik and senior imaging scientist John Delaney. Fragonard "seems to have made one composition and left it alone for a while, and then come back to it several months or maybe a few years later," explained Jackall. "Why did Fragonard make a change like this? Was this because the model rejected the painting and so the painting remained unsold? Was it that the initial painting was almost like a figure study? We are not totally sure." - Going in blind - National Gallery of Art assistant curator of French paintings Yuriko Jackall, next to an x-radiograph of "Young Girl Reading" Working like a team of detectives, Delaney, Jackall and Swicklik studied a tiny cross-section taken from the painting in the 1980s -- the traditional way of observing paint layers -- along with three different types of scientific imaging, without ever touching the work. "You start off this research not knowing what you're looking for," said Delaney as he demonstrated a scan of the canvas mounted on a mobile easel at the museum's chemical imaging lab. "But you collect many different kinds of information -- the canvas weave, the pigment types, the style of the painting, and then you start to see strange things." National Gallery of Art senior imaging scientist John Delaney shows XRF imaging spectroscopy of "Young Girl Reading" at the museum's chemical imaging lab Delaney and co-researchers developed a pair of custom-built tools: a high sensitivity near infrared hyper spectral imaging camera and an x-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging sensor. They also used techniques known as diffuse reflectance imaging spectroscopy (RIS) and reflectance transformation imaging (RTI), along with high-resolution color photography. Combined with four sets of carefully calibrated lights, the technologies produced more than 750 highly detailed images of the painting in very narrow wavelength ranges that helped create a realistic simulation of the original composition. During XRF imaging spectroscopy, mercury analysis clearly revealed the outlined "ghost" of the underlying woman, along with her plumed headdress adorned with pearls. - The sketch is key - Delaney shows a picture of "Young Girl Reading" and a simulation of the underlying painting based on technology that split up the image into spectral bands of just a few nanometers wide At the heart of the research was a faded sheet of paper on which the artist had sketched out 18 distinct thumbnail-sized portraits that corresponded to paintings associated with the fantasy figures. In addition to unlocking the mystery of "Young Girl Reading," the sketches also dispelled some long-held assumptions. Beneath all but the girl's underlying composition, Fragonard made inscriptions that for the first time associated the portraits with names, though it is still unclear whether they identify patrons or the sitters themselves. The annotations named previously unidentified portraits for some, revealed mistaken identities for others and left out paintings long considered part of the series. What had been celebrated as an iconic image of Enlightenment philosopher Denis Diderot -- a ruthless art critic -- is now associated instead with writer Ange Gabriel Meusnier de Querlon. These and other related findings raise more questions than they answer. Four of the 18 works sketched out are still unknown. Yet more discoveries possibly await after Jackall curated the first known exhibition entirely devoted to the fantasy figures, running until December 3 at the National Gallery. Tortured, sold as a slave three times and haunted with guilt after watching his cousin drown, Bangladeshi teenager Khaled Hossain fears he will never recover from the trauma of his failed attempt to reach Europe Tortured, sold as a slave three times and haunted with guilt after watching his cousin drown, Bangladeshi teenager Khaled Hossain fears he will never recover from the trauma of his failed attempt to reach Europe. Even as hundreds of thousands surge into Bangladesh fleeing violence in Myanmar hoping for a better life, there is an exodus of those who feel the country is at breaking point and salvation lies elsewhere. Experts warn the Rohingya refugee crisis and the strain on resources will push more disaffected Bangladeshis to attempt risky journeys in a bid to make their fortunes elsewhere. Like Hossain, tens of thousands are travelling from the South Asian nation to Libya to make the perilous boat trip to Italy. Experts warn the Rohingya refugee crisis and the strain on resources will push more disaffected Bangladeshis to attempt risky journeys in a bid to make their fortunes elsewhere "I was excited that within hours we would be in Italy. All my family's financial troubles will be over. I thought I could now prove myself worthy to my paralysed father," the 18-year-old told AFP. Instead many are sold as slaves before they even reach port, and those that do secure a boat -- like Hossain's young cousin -- may not survive the journey. "I am consumed by guilt," said Hossain, who has returned, broken, to Bangladesh. "I will have to live with his death for the rest of my life," he added. - Crushed to death - More than 100 people were squeezed into the tiny boat he and his cousin Farid took from Libya to Italy, many were Africans, but there were dozens from Hossain's hometown of Beanibazar as well as elsewhere across the country. Teenager Khaled Hossain was plucked from the sea after his boat to Italy sank. But his 'rescuers' were Libyan people traffickers who demanded his father, severely debilitated after a stroke, pay $12,000 in total to secure his release Three hours after the 30-foot (10-metre) plastic vessel had set off from Libya, it broke down and started to sink. There was "panic", Hossain recounted. One Bangladeshi youth was crushed to death in the rush and other passengers jumped into the sea, never to be seen again. Several emptied cans of petrol on the boat floor so they could use the containers to float in the water. "Our feet burned when they dipped in the petrol," he explained, adding that Farid jumped into the sea to escape the burning. The teenager saw a ship on the horizon and attempted to swim for help, but did not survive. "I saw his lifeless body floating," Hossain recalled. Migration expert Jalal Uddin Sikder told AFP that if authorities "failed to find a solution" to the Rohingya refugee crisis, then the situation would "fuel" the exodus out if Bangladesh More than 2,700 people have died attempting to cross the Mediterranean so far this year, according to the UN, with Bangladeshis top of the list of people rescued. Hossain was plucked from the sea by a Libyan gang and spent three months in the war-torn nation working as a slave on construction sites. He says he was sold at least three times. His father, severely debilitated after a stroke, paid $12,000 in total to secure his release. Hossain recalled: "We were tortured. Many were raped and sodomised at gunpoint." - 'Deaths don't matter' - Bangladesh's population has soared in recent years and despite reasonable growth over the past decade, opportunities for work are limited. The number of Bangladeshis on the Libya-to-Italy route has risen from a few dozen in 2014 to about 11,000 from June 2016 to March this year, according to official figures, though some estimates put the figure as high as 30,000. In Beanibazar alone, an estimated 1,000 young men have made the $10,000 journey in the past year, council chairman Ataur Rahman Khan told AFP. "Young men are desperate to go to Italy via Libya. Fathers are borrowing money and mothers are selling heirlooms to pay the traffickers," Khan said. The situation may worsen as the arrival of more than half a million Rohingya refugees who have fled an army crackdown in Myanmar's troubled Rakhine state since puts an immense strain on Bangladesh's resources. Authorities have allocated a huge swathe of land in the country's southeast in an effort to confine some 800,000 Rohingya into a settlement set to be the world's largest refugee camp. Migration expert Jalal Uddin Sikder told AFP that if authorities "failed to find a solution" to the refugee crisis, then the situation would "fuel" the exodus out if Bangladesh. Sikder added traffickers use rare success stories of migrants who have reached Europe to lure tens of thousands of others to follow suit. He explained: "They sell stories of success to jobless youths, causing enormous peer pressure in families. One or two deaths at sea or reports of kidnappings just don't matter anymore." This 1991 file picture shows Jalaluddin Haqqani, centre, the founder of the Haqqani network who rose to prominence as an Afghan mujahideen commander fighting the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s The rescue of an abducted US-Canadian family in Pakistan last week has spotlighted their captors the Haqqani network, former CIA assets now considered one of the most dangerous factions fighting US-led NATO forces in Afghanistan. Led by Sirajuddin Haqqani, who doubles as the Afghan Taliban's deputy leader, the extremist group has been blamed for spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since after the US invasion. Long suspected of links to Pakistan's shadowy military establishment, the network was described by US Admiral Mike Mullen in 2011 as a "veritable arm" of Pakistani intelligence. "When you hear US officials, including in private settings, talking about what worries them the most, they always talk about the Haqqanis," said analyst Michael Kugelman, of the Wilson Center in Washington. - Who are they? - The group was founded by Jalaluddin Haqqani, an Afghan mujahideen commander fighting the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s with the help of the US and Pakistan. Jalaluddin gained notoriety for his organisation and bravery, garnering attention from the CIA and a personal visit from US congressman Charlie Wilson. A fluent Arabic speaker, Jalaluddin also fostered close ties with Arab jihadists including Osama Bin Laden who flocked to the region during the war. Later, Jalaluddin became a minister in the Taliban regime. Jalaluddin Haqqani, seen here in a 1991 file picture, fostered close ties with Arab jihadists, including Osama Bin Laden, and later became a minister in the Taliban regime Now designated a terrorist group by the US, the Haqqanis are known for their heavy use of suicide bombers. They were blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of Kabul in May that killed around 150 people -- though Sirajuddin later denied the accusation in a rare audio message. The network has also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. That includes recently released Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. - Where are they now? - Following the US invasion of Afghanistan, Taliban fighters flooded across the border into Pakistan, where they regrouped before launching an insurgency against the Americans. That included the Haqqanis, who coordinated attacks on NATO from across the border in their stronghold of Miran Shah, the biggest town in North Waziristan, one of Pakistan's semi-autonomous border tribal areas. Freed Canadian hostage, seen on CBC News, accused his kidnappers of murdering his baby daughter and raping his wife during his family's years-long captivity by the Haqqani network. The US has launched repeated drone attacks targeting the group -- including one late Monday -- while Pakistan's military has conducted successive clearing operations, though sceptical Afghan officials have noted they always seemed to miss the Haqqanis. Pakistan intensified a military operation in the area in 2014, however, and some militant sources say the pressure has forced many of the Haqqanis underground or over the border into their Afghan strongholds, claims that AFP could not confirm. - Why are they linked to Pakistan? - Pakistan sees its arch-nemesis to the east, India, as an existential threat, and has long sought influence over Kabul as a bulwark against Delhi. The Haqqanis have frequently been accused of targeting Indian installations in Afghanistan, spurring speculation they were overseen by Pakistani intelligence agencies. "For Pakistan the calculus comes down to India," said Kugelman. "It views the Haqqanis and also more broadly the Afghan Taliban as a useful asset to help push back against the presence of India in Afghanistan." Politicians and retired military officials in Islamabad acknowledge privately that having open channels with the Haqqanis is vital. Some stressed the nature of the connection. "There's a difference between contact and supporting them or being part of them," Mehmood Shah, a retired brigadier who worked in Pakistan's tribal areas, told AFP. - What does the US want Pakistan to do? - Washington has long pressured Pakistan to crack down on militant groups, with the Haqqanis a top priority. US President Donald Trump turned up the heat this summer when he accused Pakistan of playing a double game in Afghanistan and upbraided Islamabad for sheltering "agents of chaos". Islamabad has repeatedly denied the claims and accused Washington of ignoring the thousands of Pakistani lives lost in its struggle with militancy. The recovery of Boyle, Coleman, and their children came weeks later, with Pakistan using its role in securing their freedom to urge the US to trust it is doing its best. But, Pakistan's desire for strategic depth aside, a crackdown on the Haqqanis might not be easy in a tribal society where social relations matter, warned Pakistani political analyst Imtiaz Gul. "You can't simply pluck out somebody because they've gone politically incorrect," he said. African national flags fluttering in the wind in Mogadishu, Somalia Though its motto is "one Africa, one voice", the reality of "Africa's parliament" could not be more different. Since its creation in 2004, the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has struggled to make its voice heard, prompting its deputies to ask themselves at a recent gathering: "What are we for?" "Every time we're here, we obsess over the same things. If we are not making laws, then what's the point of being here?" Corneille Padonou of Benin said to his fellow parliamentarians. "This forum is not a parliament, it is just a discussion platform that does not have any legislative powers. This institution is still wobbly," said Floyd Shivambu, a parliamentarian from South Africa. "As it is, it is a waste of resources." The PAP, which is headquartered in South Africa, currently has 229 parliamentarians from 51 countries appointed from among those nation's own parliaments. On paper, the assembly is the legislative branch of the African Union (AU). But in reality it merely has consultative powers. "Its role is essentially limited to making recommendations," said the parliament's Chadian deputy secretary general Gali Massa Harou. The Malabo Protocol issued in 2014 was intended to be a game changer, giving the PAP sweeping legislative powers -- but the document was never adopted after receiving formal support from just five countries of the required 28. - 'What women want, God wants' - "We really don't understand -- everyone here is happy for this (agreement) to be ratified" but nothing is happening, said Algerian delegate Mohamed Tayeb Laskri during the PAP's most recent sitting in October. "At this rate, it's going to take us 20 years to sign the agreement," warned Laskri's Tanzanian colleague David Silinde to applause from his fellow parliamentarians. Without any real power, the PAP has effectively become a smoking room for friends, according to Egyptian member Moustafa El Gindy. The headquarters are in Midrand, an industrial town half way between Pretoria and Johannesburg, temporarily located beside a convention centre. Even sat navs struggle to find it. With an annual budget of $22 million (18.6 million euros), the PAP meets twice a year for sessions that require 60 interpreters. Parliamentarians' home countries cover the costs of flights, accommodation and food. On the issue of getting the parliament's law-making powers rubber stamped, one representative from Mali came up with a novel idea during the October session. "If we had female deputies going to each of the countries, then we'd come back with agreements," said a visibly pumped-up Mamedi Sidibe. "What women want, God wants." President of the Pan African Parliament Cameroonian Roger Nkodo Dang delivering a speechin France in 2015 Wearing a black and gold robe, the parliament speaker, Cameroon's Roger Nkodo Dang, made an impassioned plea to the assembled delegates. "Don't blame anyone like this. I don't think women would have different results." "It's down to you, Mr Speaker, to take action to find a solution," retorted another member. That prompted a tart reply from the speaker who suggested "that it would be nice if you went to (lobby) in your own country". But the parliament faces an uphill struggle to secure the greater recognition and powers it craves. - No reason to be afraid - "(Countries) are fearful of losing their sovereignty and suffering interference from overseas," said Egyptian parliament member Moustafa El Gindy, adding that the AU is three-quarters funded by international donors, including the European Union. But the parliament's speaker insists that the AU member states have no reason to be afraid. "There are a lot of policies that the PAP can legislate on (like terrorism and climate change) without infringing on the areas reserved for the states themselves," he told AFP. But without the power to take concrete action, the parliament is doomed to continue as a talking shop. One parliamentarian called for an end to economic migration, another praised the recent move by the United States to lift sanctions on Sudan, while the speaker accused the International Criminal Court for only prosecuting blacks. As a result of its toothlessness, the parliament has suffered from a lack of recognition and struggled to raise awareness, both among the people of Africa and further afield. Member countries even refuse to recognise the Pan-African passports issued to the parliamentarians -- a major gripe on the floor of the chamber. Nkodo Dang, the speaker, is also highly critical of the AU leadership in Addis Ababa itself, saying only one AU commission chief, Jean Ping, "took the time to speak to the parliament". The insurgents have withstood a relentless US-backed bombing campaign and intense ground battles with troops that have left large parts of Marawi in ruins. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday symbolically declared a southern city "liberated from terrorists' influence" but the military said the five-month battle against militants loyal to the Islamic State group was not yet over. Duterte led rain-soaked troops in celebration in Marawi a day after the military claimed a major breakthrough as it announced the death of the head of the Islamic State group in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, in a gunbattle in the city. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated from the terrorists' influence that marks the beginning of the rehabilitation," Duterte said, speaking moments after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city. Military spokesmen later clarified that the fighting against 20 to 30 remaining militants continued along with efforts to rescue about 20 hostages. "We are going to get them very soon. We're making sure no hostages and fighters are left," Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the task force battling the militants, told AFP. Asked by reporters if Duterte's declaration was symbolic, Brawner said: "Yes, because we cannot really say that (the area) is 100 percent cleared because even when they declared the end of World War II, there were still stragglers". Another military spokesman, Major-General Restituto Padilla, said Duterte's declaration was issued as a "go signal" for the start of Marawi's rehabilitation. Pro-IS gunmen occupied parts of Marawi, the Islamic capital of the mainly Catholic Philippines, on May 23 following a foiled attempt by security forces to arrest Hapilon, authorities said. Insurgents endured a relentless US-backed bombing campaign and intense ground battles with troops in the nation's longest urban conflict. The military said Monday Hapilon -- who figured on the US "most wanted terrorists" list -- was killed in a dawn offensive alongside Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers who allied with Hapilon to plot the takeover of the city. Duterte had said Hapilon led an IS bid to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate as the jihadists suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. - Malaysian financier - Philippine troops were hunting down on Tuesday a Malaysian militant tipped to take over IS in the region following Hapilon's death. Mahmud Ahmad is the top remaining target for Philippine forces as the military said he was among six to eight foreign fighters in a battle zone comprising about 60 to 80 buildings. "Mahmud remains... one of our high-value targets in the operations being conducted," Padilla said. Terrorism expert Ahmad Kumar Ramakrishna from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies said if Mahmud Ahmad survived he would likely take over the leadership of IS-linked fighters in the southern Philippines. The militant is also reported to be a university lecturer in his home country who was in charge of raising finances from abroad for the jihadists and recruitment. The restive south of the Philippines is home to a decades-old Muslim separatist insurgency and to extremist gangs that have declared allegiance to IS, including notorious kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf and Maute group. On Tuesday, the military said it raised the alert level in a part of the southern Philippines as it warned against retaliatory attacks from sympathisers of the militants. The United States, a longtime defence ally of the Philippines, vowed on Tuesday to support the military's final push in Marawi. "The US Government will continue to work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the final phases of this operation, and looks forward to cooperating in assuring the stabilisation and rehabilitation of Marawi," US embassy press attache Molly Koscina told AFP. An anti-government protester gestures before riot police firing a water cannon in Seoul in November 2015 A former Seoul police chief and three other officers were charged Tuesday over the death of a protester hit by a water cannon during an anti-government protest two years ago. Baek Nam-Ki, a 69-year-old farmer, was knocked over by the jet of water during a huge protest against Seoul's labour policies in November 2015, and fell into a coma. He died 10 months later. His plight sparked widespread outrage, with police coming under fire for what critics described as excessive force during public rallies. Goo Eun-Soo, the city's police chief at the time, another official and the two officers manning the water cannon were charged with negligent homicide, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office said. Police allegedly trained the jet squarely at the victim's head, despite a ban on directing it above the chest. Prosecutors also revealed that a device controlling the water pressure was malfunctioning, enabling it to be used at pressures exceeding the legal limit. Police have denied responsibility for Baek's death, saying they followed all applicable rules. The case was reopened after new president Moon Jae-In took office in May. Alleged excesses under the government of ousted president Park Geun-Hye have been coming to light. Nicole Harrison, assistant curator of the Whitney Western Art Museum, will present a lecture on Will James, famed cowboy author and artist, for the next meeting of the Pahaska Corral of Westerners. The meeting occurs on Oct. 23 at the Governors Room in the Irma Hotel in Cody, Wyoming, beginning with a no-host dinner starting at 6 p.m. and followed by the presentation around 7 p.m. Both the dinner and the presentation are open to the public. Guests are welcome to attend only the presentation. The life of Will James is one of mystery and mayhem, yet his creative works tell the story of a life he was meant to live. Born Joseph Ernest Nephtali Dufault in 1892 in the Quebec parish of Saint-Nazaire-dActon, the boy grew up yearning to be a cowboy. Dufault traveled to western Canada in 1907 to fulfill his dream. By 1910 he had crossed the Canadian-U.S. border into Montana and changed his name to Will James. During his travels James managed to steal cattle, survive jail and a hospital stay, and attend art school. Pining for the Old West, James illustrated the American cowboy before the effects of barbed wire and the automotive revolution took place. His drawings and paintings not only served as illustrations for the books and short stories he wrote, but also helped shape and extend the historical, cultural and mythological perceptions of the cowboy-hero in American culture. Afghan schoolgirls receive pens and bags from the United Nations Children's Fund -- but many girls miss out on an education Two-thirds of Afghan girls do not attend school due to growing insecurity and poverty, Human Rights Watch said Tuesday, underlining the challenges of educating women in the patriarchal country 16 years after the Taliban were ousted. While millions more girls are receiving an education than during the Taliban's repressive 1996-2001 regime, progress has stalled in recent years, the rights group warned, with the proportion of female students falling in parts of the country. About 85 percent of the 3.5 million children out of school are girls, the New York-based organisation said in a report based on research in four provinces and government data. "Sixteen years after the US-led military intervention in Afghanistan ousted the Taliban, an estimated two-thirds of Afghan girls do not attend school," it said. But the rights group warned the real situation was likely much worse because Afghanistan does not record children as being out of school until they have failed for three years to attend class. "Overstated high numbers (for female attendance) have helped give the impression that there is a continued positive trajectory, when in fact numbers are actually decreasing in some parts of the country," the report said. Despite the hundreds of millions of dollars spent in the past 16 years on female education, Human Rights Watch said even the most optimistic statistics showed only "slightly more than half of girls are in school". An education ministry official told Human Rights Watch in April that 39 percent of the 9.3 million students in school were girls but the group noted that Afghan government data was notoriously unreliable. Describing the gains as "partial and fragile", it said millions of girls had never been to school and many more had only attended briefly. "The Afghan government and donors made bold promises in 2001 to get all girls into education, but insecurity, poverty and displacement are now driving many girls out of school," said Liesl Gerntholtz, women's rights director at Human Rights Watch. Government statistics indicate that in some provinces, the percentage of students who are girls is as low as 15 percent, the report said. Among the many barriers to female education are a lack of schools, female teachers and basic facilities such as toilets. On top of that conflict has driven thousands of families from their homes and many school-age girls are forced to work to support loved ones. In areas controlled by the Taliban girls receive limited or no education at all, while in contested zones girls trying to attend class face heightened security threats. "The conflict has been accompanied by lawlessness, as militias and criminal gangs have proliferated, and girls face threats including sexual harassment, kidnapping, and acid attacks, as well as targeted attacks and threats against girls education," the report said. Map of Afghanistan showing Gardez, site of a suicide bombing and gun attack Tuesday Suicide bombers and gunmen launched an attack on a police training centre in southeastern Afghanistan on Tuesday in the latest violence to rock the war-torn country. The Taliban claimed responsibility in a tweet for the continuing attack in the centre in Gardez, capital of Paktia province which borders Pakistan. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault," the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. There was no immediate information about casualties. A local official said two car bombs blew up near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing," Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. That includes recently released Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. Late Monday a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least five Haqqani militants, officials have said. The latest attacks comes as four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China reportedly are being held in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. Former Ocean Bank general director Nguyen Xuan Son on trial in Vietnam in September before his death sentence for graft: now a former legislator has been given a life sentence A former Vietnamese lawmaker has been sentenced to life in prison for fraud after she pocketed $16 million in down-payments from would-be homeowners when she was a real estate developer, a court clerk said Tuesday. Chau Thi Thu Nga is the latest to be punished as part of a government anti-corruption sweep targeting current and former officials, bankers and executives in the communist state. As chairwoman of the private Housing Group company, Nga sold hundreds of apartments to prospective homeowners starting from 2009, though the project was not licensed and the properties were never built. The 52-year-old, who later became a parliamentarian, was convicted of selling the apartments "on paper only", according to the verdict reported by state-controlled VNExpress. She was found guilty on Monday and sentenced to life in prison, a court clerk confirmed to AFP Tuesday. Nine accomplices were also convicted and given penalties ranging from a three years' suspended sentence to seven years in jail. The court ordered Nga to repay the victims she scammed. Nga was a member of Vietnam's rubber-stamp parliament from 2011 until her arrest in 2015, when she was stripped of her post. Vietnam is one of the most corrupt countries in Southeast Asia, though its ranking on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index improved last year for the first time since 2012. The current leadership has targeted high-flying executives and officials in an attempt to clean up business and party ranks and polish the country's image. Last month, 51 bankers and businessmen were convicted in a massive fraud case involving Ocean Bank, including former general director Nguyen Xuan Son who was sentenced to death for causing losses worth millions of dollars. Several other senior officials from state oil giant PetroVietnam are being investigated in connection with the case. The communist nation brazenly cast its net overseas in August when Vietnamese security agents allegedly kidnapped Trinh Xuan Thanh, a former state oil executive, from a Berlin park. Hanoi says he returned to the country and handed himself over to police voluntarily, but the case has sparked a diplomatic row with Berlin, which expelled Vietnamese diplomats. Analysts say the current purge is as much about eliminating political enemies as it is about tackling corruption. Air Force Works To Meet Increased Demand For Remotely Piloted Aircraft The death toll from a US drone attack on a compound used by the Taliban-allied Haqqani network has risen to 26, officials said Tuesday, less than a week after a US-Canadian family held captive by the militants was rescued. The barrage on Monday targeted a meeting of Haqqani fighters in Pakistan's remote tribal Kurram district along the Afghan border in the deadliest attack on the group this year. "First drone strike killed five fighters from Haqqani network and minutes apart a second drone then fired two more missiles after militants arrived to retrieve dead bodies from the rubble," a senior government official in Kurram told AFP Tuesday. "So far 26 dead bodies have been retrieved and drones are still flying in the sky," the official said. Pakistan has routinely denied drone strikes on its soil in the past. The US has increased pressure on Pakistan in recent months to crack down on the outfit. A second government official in Kurram confirmed the drone strikes and the new death toll. Both officials said the strikes took place on the border with Afghanistan, with part of the compound sited in Afghan territory. The military however denied a drone strike took place in Pakistani territory. "There has been no air violation along Pak-Afg border in that area nor any drone strike in Kurram Agency, as being misreported by (a) few," the military spokesman said in a statement. But "military operations" were being conducted close to Kurram on the Afghan side, the statement added. The Haqqanis are one of the strongest factions in the Afghan Taliban insurgency and have earned a fearsome reputation for their vicious attacks on NATO troops and Afghan installations over the years. The group has long been suspected of having ties to Pakistan's shadowy security establishment, souring relations with Washington. Islamabad has repeatedly denied the accusations of turning a blind eye to militancy, lambasting the United States for ignoring the thousands who have been killed on its soil and the billions spent fighting extremists. Canadian hostage Joshua Boyle and his American wife and three children were freed on October 11 in Pakistan after five years of captivity at the hands of the Haqqani network. A woman looks at sarees in a store in the Indian city of Hyderabad This close to India's glittering festive season, the cash register at Neha Tandon's clothes store should be working overtime as revellers snap up elegant sarees for Diwali celebrations and lavish wedding parties. But the traditional spending sprees have not transpired this festival season, the first since a sudden recall of India's high-value banknotes sent shockwaves through Asia's third-largest economy. "Demonetisation" caused months of crippling cash shortages that hit businesses hard and economists concede it contributed to dragging on India's growth, which hit a three-year low of 5.7 percent in the first quarter of the financial year. Retailers say consumers remain scared of parting with their cash and blame that upheaval, and subsequent economic reforms from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for their festive sales woes. "Since demonetisation, there has been less cash around. But even that aside, the Modi government is so volatile people are afraid to spend," said Tandon at her boutique in Delhi, where just one woman was browsing the racks of sarees less than a week from Diwali. The Confederation of All India Traders, the body representing 60 million retailers, says pre-festival sales are down 40 percent compared to last year's $4 billion Diwali bonanza. Since then, Modi has overhauled India's tax system and cracked down on corruption, flagship reforms many argued were necessary but slowed the economy. The timing could not be worse for traders, who rely on consumers spending big on clothes, jewellery and gifts to lavish on friends and family ahead of Diwali, the biggest celebration of the year for India's one billion Hindus dubbed the "festival of lights". "I've never seen it this bad. We've been here 40 years and trust me, this is not normal," Tandon said. - Scared to spend - Some flashier shopping malls reported stronger sales over the weekend, but smaller outlets say the damage has been done. Market stores in Delhi ahead of the Diwali festival season complain sales are down since a sudden recall of India's high-value banknotes sent shockwaves through Asia's third-largest economy Praveen Khandelwal, the general secretary of the traders confederation, said there was no hope of a last-minute rebound with some marketplaces "absolutely deserted". "Usually at this time, it's impossible to move in the markets. But this year it's certainly not like that. This is the worst Diwali in a decade for traders," he told AFP. Luxury items have borne the brunt of the austerity this season, with sales of wristwatches, formal wear and jewellery plunging. But the penny pinching is also being felt in other industries usually booming during the festive season. In a normal year Bengali Sweet Center, a traditional confectioner, might prepare up to 5,000 boxes of Indian sweets for corporate clients preparing gifts. This year, those orders have nosedived to just 60 boxes, said owner Sriyansh Jain. Fireworks vendors, who sell more during Diwali than any other time, are also facing a dismal year with crackers banned in Delhi to curb the capital's horrendous air pollution. The depressing holiday sales cap off a tough year for retailers, who have been buffered in the wake of Modi's economic reforms and attribute the disruption with the glum consumer climate. The cancellation of more than 80 percent of India's rupee banknotes, a move designed to undercut the black market, wiped out cash reserves and threw businesses into chaos. Eight months later Modi followed up with the biggest tax overhaul in a generation -- replacing more than a dozen state and national levies with four different rates of between five and 28 per cent. Retailers complained they were not ready for the massive shake up, with some sectors striking as others scrambled to work out what to charge under the new tax regime. Economists had long argued such steps were vital if the country of 1.25 billion people is to continue creating jobs for its ever-growing population. These two policies were singled out last month when the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development downgraded India's growth forecast for the year to 6.7 percent, down 0.6 point from their June outlook. The Modi government has promised the short-term pain would bear fruit down the line. But such overtures offer little comfort for retailers staring down the barrel of a record-bad year. "The mood is really down. People are more cautious about spending," said fashion retailer Sunit Nanda, nervously looking around his quiet shop in Delhi. "But these next few days are critical for our business, so I hope things pick up." A wounded Afghan man receives treatment at a hospital after a suicide attack in Gardez, capital of Paktia province, on October 17, 2017 Two separate suicide and gun attacks on police and soldiers in Afghanistan left at least 71 dead and nearly 170 wounded Tuesday in the latest devastating assaults on beleaguered security forces. The Taliban claimed the more deadly of the two assaults, a coordinated attack on police in the southeast city of Gardez in Paktia province. That assault killed 41 people and injured 158, according to the interior ministry, and left hospital officials calling for blood donations. There were desperate scenes as relatives queued for news of loved ones after the hours-long battle. A separate ambush blamed on the Taliban in the neighbouring province of Ghazni killed 25 security officials and five civilians with 10 wounded, the interior ministry said. Afghanistan's army and police, on the front line against the Taliban since foreign combat forces pulled back in December 2014, have suffered shocking casualties over the past year. Their ranks are beset by corruption and desertion. "The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood," said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, who put the number of wounded there at more than 200. Map of Afghanistan showing Gardez, site of a suicide bombing and gun attack Tuesday Doctors and nurses rushed to attend to the wounded women, children and police filling the corridors where some bodies also lay. Outside, university students formed a queue to donate blood, an AFP photographer said. The attack, claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, began when two suicide bombers driving an explosives-laden truck and a Humvee blew them up near the training centre, which is close to the Paktia police headquarters. The blasts flattened a building and enabled gunmen to force their way inside the compound, according to officials and the interior ministry. "Most of the victims are civilians who had come to the police headquarters to get their passports and national IDs," a statement from the Paktia governor's office said. A university student who was in class at the time said he heard "a big boom" which shook the building and shattered windows. "As we were trying to find our way (out of the building) I heard a second blast and then the dust and dirt covered us in the class. Several of my classmates were wounded by broken glass," Noor Ahmad told AFP. The battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces lasted around five hours before it ended with all five militants killed, officials said. Photos posted on Twitter showed two large plumes of smoke rising above the city. The second attack, in Ghazni some 100 kilometres (62 miles) west of Gardez, followed a similar pattern involving insurgents detonating an explosives-laden Humvee near a police headquarters then storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governor's spokesman, told AFP. "Dozens of Taliban" were killed in the attack, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman said. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attacks and praised the "bravery and sacrifice" of security forces. - Drone strike - The attacks are the latest in a series of assaults on security installations, including one on a military hospital in Kabul in March which may have killed up to 100 people, and a devastating attack on a base in Mazar-i-Sharif which left 144 people dead. They came one day after four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. Afghan security personnel walk at the site of a suicide attack at a police training centre in Gardez, capital of Paktia province, on October 17, 2017 Paktia province borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. Tuesday's attack in Gardez began hours after a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. A senior commander in the Afghan Taliban told AFP on condition of anonymity the attack was in retaliation for the US aerial assault, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. On Monday the US also carried out strikes in the Jaji Maidan district of Paktia "under counter-terror authorities", said US Forces spokesman Navy Captain Tom Gresback. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. The extremist group is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. str-emh-sjd-amj/st/ds/sm A technician oversees pumping at Iraq's Bai Hassan oil field, one of the two largest in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk Iraqi forces took control of the two largest oil fields in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk on Tuesday dealing a heavy blow to the finances of the autonomous Kurdish government. The Kurds withdrew without a fight after federal government troops and militia seized the provincial governor's office and key military bases and oil fields as tensions boiled over following a Kurdish vote for independence last month. "Federal police units took control of the Bai Hassan and Havana oil fields," north of the city of Kirkuk, a statement said. Kurdish technicians had halted operations at the two fields and left the wells on Monday, an oil ministry official in Baghdad said. The fields accounted for around 250,000 barrels per day of the 650,000 bpd that the autonomous Kurdish region exported under its own auspices, outside the purview of Baghdad, and their loss is a major blow to its revenues. The regional government took over the two fields in 2014 when federal troops withdrew in the face of the jihadists' lightning advance through areas north and west of Baghdad. The autonomous Kurdish region is already going through its worst economic crisis after Baghdad severed its air links to the outside world and neighbouring Iran closed its border to trade in oil products. Kirkuk lies outside the autonomous region but forms part of a swathe of historically Kurdish-majority territory that the Kurds want to incorporate in it against the wishes of Baghdad. Thai law enforcers stand behind packages of "ice", or crystal meth, and ketamine during a press conference in May Thai police said Tuesday they had seized half a tonne of crystal methamphetamine worth $30 million, their largest-ever seizure, as surging production in the Golden Triangle floods Southeast Asia. Police said the seizure was made on Monday in the northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima when a pick-up truck tried to evade a checkpoint before dawn. A man who was arrested said he was paid nearly $6,000 to courier the drugs from Laos to a staging point in central Thailand, where he was due to receive a call from the "kingpin" behind the deal. Crystal methamphetamine -- or ice -- is of high purity and sells for around $60-80 a gramme in Thailand. It is being churned out in unprecedented volume by Myanmar-based drug labs operated by the Wa -- a self-governing ethnic group behind the drug trade in the Golden Triangle which covers Myanmar's Shan State, Laos and northern Thailand. Drugs are smuggled south into Thailand, mostly destined for Malaysia or even Australia -- the world's largest per capita consumer of crystal meth -- where the price surges. "This is the largest 'ice' seizure ever (in Thailand) with a domestic value of one billion baht ($30 million)," national police chief Chaktip Chaijinda told reporters. "If it reaches a foreign country it could fetch 10 times that amount." The drugs were produced by "the North or South Wa groups and then trafficked through Laos to Thailand, destined for Malaysia," he added. The Wa churn out ice, heroin and highly-addictive caffeine-laced methamphetamine pills to fund their powerful militia. Narcotics police have made numerous high-profile seizures in a crackdown on the main Wa drug route through northern Thailand. "So the traffickers have changed to the northeastern route" through Laos, the police chief added. Myanmar's central government, which is trying to forge a fragile peace with myriad ethnic militias, has little ability or appetite to confront the Wa. Rojda Felat, a Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commander, waves her group's flag at the iconic Al-Naim square in Raqa on October 17, 2017 US-backed forces took full control of Raqa from the Islamic State group on Tuesday, defeating the last jihadist holdouts in the de facto Syrian capital of their now-shattered "caliphate". The victory caps a battle of more than four months, hammering another nail in the coffin of the jihadist group's experiment in statehood, which has collapsed in the face of offensives in Syria and Iraq. Inside Raqa, overjoyed fighters from the Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Forces celebrated and raised their yellow flag in the city's Al-Naim traffic circle, which became known as "Hell Roundabout" after jihadists used it for gruesome public executions. Raqa had become a byword for atrocities carried out by the jihadists and it was from the city that IS organised devastating overseas attacks like the Paris massacres in 2015 or August's attacks in Barcelona. "Hell Roundabout is now Al-Naim Roundabout again," the fighters in Raqa cheered, surrounded by crushed buildings and charred cars damaged in the fierce battle for the city. Rojda Felat, the SDF's commander for its Raqa operation, flashed a wide grin as she waved a huge yellow flag emblazoned with the militia's name, her rifle hanging from her shoulder. The battle for Raqa "God willing, joy will return to the whole city," said fighter Sevger Himo, his eyes gleaming. The defeat of IS in Raqa was a victory "the whole world was waiting for," said Omar Alloush, a member of the Raqa Civil Council formed to run the city after its liberation. Raqa has been devastated by fighting and emptied of civilians, with the last few thousand departing under a deal implemented over the weekend. For Umm Abdullah, a Raqa native who fled the city three years ago, news of its capture was overwhelming. "I can't describe my happiness," the 44-year-old told AFP in the town of Kobane, 100 kilometres (70 miles) north of Raqa. Celebratory gunfire could be heard across Kobane late into the evening. - 'Thank God, thank God' - "When my sister told me it had been freed, she started to cry, and then I started to cry. Thank God, thank God." SDF forces broke into Raqa in June after months of fighting to surround the city. On Tuesday they flushed the last few hundred IS fighters from their remaining positions in the main hospital and the municipal stadium. Members of the Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate at the frontline in the Islamic State (IS) group's crumbling stronghold of Raqa on October 16, 2017 "Everything is finished in Raqa, our forces have taken full control of Raqa," the alliance's spokesman Talal Sello told AFP. He said the SDF was combing the city for any remaining jihadists who had not surrendered or been killed. "The military operations in Raqa have finished, but there are clearing operations now under way to uncover any sleeper cells there might be and remove mines," he said. The announcement came just days after the SDF launched the final phase of its operation to retake the city. There had been fears that the force, backed by the US-led coalition battling IS in Syria and Iraq, could get bogged down in a protracted battle for the last 10 percent of the city. But on Tuesday they captured the hospital and stadium in quick succession, effectively ending IS's more than three-year presence in the city. A member of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) talks on the radio near Raqa's stadium as they clear the last positions on the frontline on October 16, 2017 in the Islamic State group's crumbling stronghold Sello said an official statement announcing "the liberation of the city" would be made soon. The US-led coalition backing the operation made no statement on the city's capture, but announced that IS had lost 87 percent of the territory it seized in 2014 and hundreds of its fighters had surrendered. "In the last few days, about 350 fighters surrendered to the SDF in Raqa, with several confirmed foreign fighters taken into custody after SDF screening," Baghdad-based coalition spokesman Colonel Ryan Dillon told reporters in a video call. "ISIS is losing in every way," he added in a tweet, using an alternative acronym for the group. "We've devastated their networks and eliminated leaders at all levels." The breakthrough in the Raqa operation, which was launched on June 6, came after a deal was struck allowing the evacuation in recent days of civilians who had been held as human shields. - IS confined to 'dwarf territory' - The battle for the city was fierce, with the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor saying Tuesday at least 3,250 people had been killed, including 1,130 civilians, with hundreds more still missing. Raqa's capture leaves IS in control of little more than a "dwarf territory" in neighbouring Deir Ezzor province, said Nicholas Heras, a fellow at the Centre for a New American Security think tank. "IS will be mainly boxed into a strip of territory running along the Middle Euphrates River Valley in the province of Deir Ezzor," he told AFP. "This will be the centre of gravity for IS in Syria." As well as the SDF campaign, the jihadists are facing a separate Russian-backed Syrian regime campaign that has retaken swathes of territory in the province, further rolling back a "caliphate" that three years ago was roughly the size of Britain. The Britain-based Observatory said regime forces had brought the entire area between Deir Ezzor city and Mayadeen, which was retaken on Saturday, under their control following a major military offensive. "These are not desert areas, they are villages along the Euphrates that were IS strongholds," the monitor said. "The Islamic State group is collapsing under pressure from the regime in Deir Ezzor province," it said. IS also controls territory in neighbouring regions on the Iraqi side of the border, where the jihadists are facing another US-backed offensive by Iraqi pro-government forces. Rohingya refugees walking into Bangladesh from Myanmar Some 582,000 Rohingya refugees have now fled Myanmar for Bangladesh since late August, the United Nations said Tuesday, warning that thousands more were still stranded at the border. The UN said between 10,000 and 15,000 new refugees have arrived at the border in the last 48 hours alone, fleeing violence in Myanmar, where Rohingya villages are being burned to the ground. It expressed deep concern about newly arrived refugees including children and elderly people dehydrated and hungry from the long journey who are stranded near the border. One Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) official told AFP on condition of anonymity that the new arrivals were being held in an area of no man's land, although it was not immediately clear why. Spokesman Andrej Mahecic said the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) was advocating with the Bangladesh authorities "to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly difficult conditions back home". He said UNHCR staff had spoken with people who described walking for a week to reach the Bangladesh border. Most are still squatting in paddy fields in Bangladesh, and were waiting for permission to move away from the border, he said. "Every minute counts given the fragile condition they're arriving in," said Mahecic. Mahecic said many had chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmar's Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed. "They finally fled when their villages were set on fire," he said. Many of the new arrivals were from Rakhine's Buthidaung district, which lies relatively far from the border with Bangladesh. "The military killed my brother. We walked all the way to this land to save our lives," said Mohammad Shoeb, who arrived at the border with his family on Monday evening. The UN said a jump of 45,000 in its estimated number of newly arrived refugees to 582,000 was due partly to improved access to some areas where many had previously gone uncounted. That figure does not include the thousands currently in no man's land. The Rohingya are fleeing violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state, where the UN has accused troops of waging an ethnic cleansing campaign against them. The numbers have soared since August 25, when militant attacks on Myanmar's security forces in Rakhine sparked a major military backlash. Hundreds more have drowned making the perilous journey. On Monday authorities said they had found the bodies of 10 Rohingya whose boat sank in the estuary of the Naf river that divides the two countries. The UNHCR said it was working with the Bangladesh government to complete a new transit centre in Kutupalong, the largest of the refugee camps housing the Rohingya. Bangladesh has announced plans to build a refugee camp that could accommodate around 800,000 Rohingya in Kutupalong. The camp would be the largest in the world and has raised concerns about the risks of heavily concentrating such a large number of vulnerable people, such as the spread of disease. Authorities are asking for the public's help in locating two inmates who did not return to the Casper Re-Entry Center on Friday. Joseph Hemme, 26, left the privately owned corrections facility at 6 a.m. Friday for work. He was expected to return by 7 p.m. that day but did not. Hemme is 6 feet, 2 inches tall, weighs about 170 pounds and has black hair and brown eyes. Hemme was sentenced to between five and eight years of incarceration in February in Albany County on charges of burglary and buying and concealing stolen property. Andrew Melikian, 24, also failed to return to the Re-Entry Center after leaving to look for employment Friday. Melikian is 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighs about 180 pounds. He has blue eyes and is bald. Melikian was sentenced to between three and a half and six years of incarceration in Natrona County for a felony charge of aiding and abetting in a robbery. The Casper Re-Entry Center provides rehabilitation and substance abuse treatment to inmates before they are released. The privately owned company contracts with the Wyoming Department of Corrections. Inmates at the facility often hold jobs outside the facility. Anyone with information is asked to call the Natrona County Sheriff's Office at 307-235-9282. South African President Jacob Zuma (seen here) in his second cabinet reshuffle this year, dropped Higher Education minister Blade Nzimande South African President Jacob Zuma sacked a vocal critic from his cabinet on Tuesday, a move set to deepen tensions before the ANC chooses a new party leader in December. In his second reshuffle this year, Zuma dropped higher education minister Blade Nzimande, a veteran member of the South African Communist Party, which is a key political ally within the ruling ANC alliance. The SACP hit back at the "authoritarianism" of Zuma, who the SACP has repeatedly called to resign over corruption scandals. "This is an act of provocation," the party's deputy secretary general Solly Mapaila told reporters. "President Zuma should step down instead of making these factional decisions," he said, describing him as "delusionary" and a "runaway president". The African National Congress relies heavily on the SACP and the COSATU trade union federation to drum up support in elections. The "tripartite alliance" led the fight to end white-minority rule in South Africa. Both the SACP and COSATU have endorsed Cyril Ramaphosa to be the ANC's new head when Zuma steps down in December. Zuma, who will stay national president until the 2019 general elections, is backing his ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma to succeed him. ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe said it was a "pity" that Nzimande had been fired and that the cabinet shakeup "obviously will impact negatively on alliance relations which are at their lowest." The SACP said that the reshuffle would place the alliance on the "brink of disintegration". Zuma also moved state security minister David Mahlobo to the energy portfolio, reviving debate over controversial and costly plans for nuclear energy. South Africa wants to build eight new reactors to end its reliance on coal to produce electricity. But the procurement process and the price tag of about one trillion rand ($73 billion) have drawn sharp opposition. It is reported that former finance minister Pravin Gordhan, seen as a bulwark against corruption, was ousted from the government in March because he opposed the nuclear plans. An Iraqi army vehicle stands at the Bai Hassan oil field west of Kirkuk on October 17, 2017 as Iraqi forces seized major oil fields in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk from Kurdish forces Iraqi forces Wednesday appeared poised to take full control of the oil fields in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk, dashing Kurdish hopes of creating a viable independent state. Kurdish peshmerga forces withdrew without a fight after federal government troops and militia entered the city of Kirkuk and seized the provincial governor's office and key military bases in response to a Kurdish vote for independence last month. The oil fields taken Tuesday accounted for more than 400,000 of the 650,000 barrels per day that the autonomous Kurdish region used to export in defiance of Baghdad. Their loss deals a huge blow to its already dire finances and its dreams of economic self-sufficiency. On Tuesday morning, Iraqi forces took down the Kurdish flags that had flown over the pumping stations of the Bai Hassan and Havana oil fields and raised the national flag, an AFP photographer said. Kirkuk Kurdish technicians had halted production and fled on Monday evening as pro-government forces approached. The last Kirkuk oil field still in Kurdish hands is the smaller Khurmala field, south of Arbil, which produces around 10,000 barrels per day. Oil exports through Turkey -- both from Kirkuk and from within the Kurdish autonomous region -- make up a major portion of the autonomous Kurdish government's revenues. Baghdad views them as a breach of the constitution, under which they are a federal responsibility. - 'End of the dream' - The autonomous Kurdish region is suffering a crushing economic crisis after Baghdad severed its air links with the outside world and neighbouring Iran closed its border to petrochemical exports. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said Tuesday the independence poll was now "a thing of the past". "Central authority must be imposed everywhere in Iraq," he told a press conference. "I want to be fair with all citizens." Iraqi President Fuad Masum blamed the independence poll for triggering Baghdad's operation. "Holding a referendum on the Kurdistan region's independence from Iraq stirred grave disagreements between the central government and the government of Kurdistan," Masum, himself Kurdish, said in a televised address Tuesday. Iraqi government forces remove a Kurdish flag from the Bai Hassan oil field west of Kirkuk after seizing the installation from Kurdish forces on October 17, 2017 in a blow to Kurdish hopes for independence That "led to federal security forces retaking direct control of Kirkuk," he said. Global crude prices rose further early Wednesday on investor fears of output disruptions. French geographer and Kurdistan specialist Cyril Roussel said the loss of the oil fields had slashed Kurdish finances by half. "It spells the end of Kurdistan's economic self-sufficiency and of the dream of independence," he said. He said that without the revenues from Kirkuk oil, the autonomous region would never have embarked on the September 25 poll in which Kurds overwhelmingly backed independence. "It was only after the annexation of the two Kirkuk fields in July 2014 that Kurdish president Massud Barzani started to talk of independence. Before, he spoke only of autonomy," Roussel said. Kirkuk lies outside the autonomous region but is one of a string of historically Kurdish-majority territories that the Kurds aim to control, against the wishes of Baghdad. Kurdish forces seized many such areas in 2014 when Iraqi army units disintegrated in the face of the jihadists' lightning advance. - Yazidi massacre town falls - But since entering Kirkuk city on Monday, government forces have advanced on those areas one by one. Market trader Hassan Mohammed, from Sulaimaniyah, said he had "never felt so full of despair". "The history of the Kurds in Iraq is full of setbacks, Kirkuk is a new one, a huge one," the 52-year-old said. On Tuesday, troops and militia entered the Yazidi Kurdish town of Sinjar after peshmerga forces withdrew without a fight, the Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force said. Sinjar was the site of one of the Islamic State group's worst atrocities in August 2014, when it killed thousands of Yazidi men and abducted thousands of women and girls as sex slaves, helping trigger the US intervention against the jihadists. Abadi on Tuesday evening said Iraqi troops had retaken control of a major dam north of the second city Mosul, and of the Makhmur area, which the Kurds claim as part of their autonomous region. - 'Betrayal' - Kurdish forces captured Sinjar from IS in 2015 and the town's loss is a symbolic blow for Barzani. Ten peshmerga fighters were killed as they exchanged artillery fire with the army before it entered Kirkuk on Monday, but otherwise the Iraqi advance has been largely bloodless. That was helped by a sharp division within Kurdish ranks over last month's independence poll. Peshmerga forces loyal to the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, historic rival of Barzani's Kurdistan Democratic Party, withdrew under an agreement with Baghdad, officials said. The KDP accused the PUK of "betrayal". But KDP forces also withdrew without a fight, abandoning Sinjar and the two Kirkuk oil fields. On Tuesday, as it became clear that the feared bloodshed was not going to materialise, hundreds of families from among the tens of thousands of Kurdish residents who had fled Kirkuk city began to return to their homes, security sources said. Fighters of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces clear the last Islamic State group positions in its erstwile bastion Raqa on October 16, 2017 A US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters, the Syrian Democratic Forces, said it had fully captured the Islamic State group's former Syrian stronghold Raqa on Tuesday. Here are five facts about the northern city: Ancient capital In an area inhabited since antiquity, Raqa enjoyed a golden age under the early Islamic empire of the Abbasids. In 796, the powerful caliph Harun al-Rashid transferred his capital there from Baghdad. He ordered major works and Raqa was soon dotted with grand palaces and mosques. Although the caliph's court returned to Baghdad in 809, Raqa remained a major administrative centre for the western part of the empire. But in 1258, the city was largely destroyed by the Mongol invasion. Strategic location Raqa's location at the intersection of several major roads and the Euphrates River has long made it a key strategic prize. Syrian civilians flee the centre of Raqa on October 12, 2017 as the battle for the onetime Islamic State group bastion enters its final stages It sits 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of the Turkish border and about halfway between Syria's second city Aleppo and the Iraqi frontier. Before the Syrian civil war, Raqa prospered from agriculture in the fertile valley and benefited from nearby hydroelectric dams generating power for much of the country. First major city to fall Two years after Syria's war broke out in 2011, Raqa was the first provincial capital to fall to rebels, including jihadists of the Al-Nusra Front, Al-Qaeda's Syrian affiliate at the time. But tensions erupted into clashes between Al-Nusra and jihadists from what was to become the Islamic State group. On January 6, 2014, fierce fighting between the rival groups ended with the predecessor of IS seizing control of the city. Five months later, Iraq's second city Mosul fell to the jihadists and on June 29, the group declared a "caliphate" across swathes of both countries. It rebranded itself the Islamic State (IS) and declared its Iraqi chief, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, "caliph" of Muslims everywhere. IS bastion, gruesome theatre Raqa, home to an estimated 300,000 civilians, became a key IS base for operations in Syria and beyond. Fighters of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces stand watch over the front line in Raqa on October 16, 2017, penultimate day of the battle for the onetime Islamic State group bastion IS took over all levels of civil administration, rewriting school curricula, establishing Islamic courts and creating police units to implement Islamic law. Raqa was also the scene of some of the jihadists' worst atrocities, including gruesome executions, public displays of corpses and sex slavery. Coalition target Raqa has long been coveted by multiple parties to the Syrian conflict, including the government, Russia, Turkey and the US-led coalition set up in 2014 to tackle IS. On November 5, 2016, the US-backed SDF launched a major offensive dubbed "Wrath of the Euphrates" to seize the city. A US-led coalition backed them with air strikes, equipment and special forces advisers. As the SDF closed in on the city, thousands of Raqa residents were smuggled out to territory captured by the US-backed force. After taking swathes of the surrounding province, including the key town of Tabqa and the adjacent dam, the SDF sealed off the approaches to Raqa from the north, east and west. In early July, SDF forces penetrated the heavily fortified heart of the city for the first time but continued to face tough resistance from the jihadists. On September 1, the SDF successfully captured the entire historic district, bringing it closer than ever to the jihadist bastion's well-defended and densely populated heart. By late September, they had taken control of 90 percent of the city, cornering IS fighters in Raqa's stadium, a few surrounding buildings and a major hospital. On October 17, an SDF spokesman told AFP that the group's fighters had "taken full control of Raqa" from IS. burs-wai/mjg/del/kir Children were among those held by the UN-backed GNA during recent clashes in Sabratha More than 20,000 migrants, including pregnant women and babies, are being held either in detention centres or by traffickers in Libya's people-smuggling hub Sabratha, the UN said Tuesday, warning of abuse "on a shocking scale". The UN refugee agency said Libyan authorities were holding more than 14,500 migrants who had previously been kept captive by smugglers in and around Sabratha, to the west of Tripoli. The migrants were discovered in farms, houses and warehouses in and around the coastal city after a force allied with Libya's UN-backed unity government drove out a rival militia earlier this month. They have been taken to a hangar in the city and are gradually being transferred to official detention centres where aid organisations are providing assistance, UNHCR spokesman Andrej Mahecic said. Authorities also estimate that another 6,000 people are still being held by smugglers, bringing the total number held to around 20,500, Mahecic told reporters in Geneva. Following the ouster and killing of long-time dictator Moamer Kadhafi in a NATO-backed 2011 revolution, Sabratha became a major hub for migrants seeking a chance to head to Europe. Taking advantage of a security vacuum, some local smugglers took control of whole sections of the city and even built their own landing piers, equipped to launch dozens of migrant boats a day. - Sexual abuse, forced labour - Mahecic said UNHCR staff working on the ground with those previously held by the people smugglers had described a "picture of human suffering and abuse on a shocking scale." Some of the migrants suffered sexual abuse and forced labour while in detention "Amongst the refugees and migrants who suffered abuse at the hands of smugglers, there are pregnant women and new-born babies," he said, adding that hundreds of people were found without clothes or shoes while hundreds said they had not eaten for days when they were found. Many of them require urgent medical care, Mahecic said, adding that some had suffered bullet wounds while most said they had been subject to abuse, including sexual violence and forced labour. UNHCR also warned there was "a worrying number of unaccompanied and separated children, many under the age of six." The agency said the official detention centres and assembly points were overflowing, and often lacked water tanks and sanitation facilities. Many people, including children, are being forced to sleep out in the open. While smugglers had committed the worst abuse against the migrants, the UN has previously warned of "extremely bad" conditions in Libyan detention centres. Until recently, Libya has been a major launching off point for migrants, most of them from African countries, trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. But the number of attempted crossings has dropped off dramatically, since Libya's coastguard received European Union funding and training to stop smugglers taking migrants to the water. A Syrian woman looks back as civilians gather on the western front after fleeing the centre of Raqa on October 12, 2017 The city of Raqa has been taken from the Islamic State group but the humanitarian crisis in the region is still escalating, Save the Children said Tuesday. "The military offensive in Raqa may be coming to an end, but the humanitarian crisis is greater than ever," the aid group's Syria director Sonia Khush said in a statement. The Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-Arab alliance that has been fighting to capture Raqa since June, announced Tuesday that they had fully captured the city. The military development leaves the jihadists' self-styled "caliphate" in tatters but Save the Children warned that "some 270,000 people who have fled the Raqa fighting are still in critical need of aid, and camps are bursting at the seams." It said that most Raqa families had no homes to go back to and that thousands of civilians were still being displaced in the eastern Deir Ezzor province, where fighting was still raging on Tuesday. The aid group said that the reconstruction effort would require massive investment and that funding would also be needed to bring children back to school. "Many are plagued by nightmares from witnessing horrific violence and will need extensive psychological support," the aid group said. After IS captured Raqa in 2014, the city become synonymous with the jihadist group's worst abuses. The SDF on Monday retook an infamous roundabout where IS used to carry out public beheadings and crucifixions. Kurz has vowed 'zero tolerance' on anti-Semitism Austria's election winner Sebastian Kurz, who may form a coalition with the far-right, vowed "zero tolerance" on anti-Semitism in any future government, in an interview published in Israel on Tuesday. "The battle against anti-Semitism and our policy of zero tolerance against all anti-Semitic tendencies is very important to me," Kurz told the right-wing Israel Hayom newspaper. "It is a clear pre-condition for the formation of any coalition under my leadership," the 31-year-old conservative told the paper, which is a firm backer of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Kurz's People's Party (OeVP) won 31.5 percent of the vote on Sunday, near-complete results show, and his most likely coalition partner is seen as the populist Freedom Party (FPOe), third on 26.0 percent. When the FPOe last entered government, in 2000 under former head Joerg Haider, who praised Hitler's "orderly" employment policies and praised SS veterans, Israel suspended relations. They were normalised in 2003 under prime minister Ariel Sharon and the FPOe's party head since 2005, Heinz-Christian Strache, has moved to soften its image and improve relations with the Jewish state. Strache, 48, has visited Israel several times, the last time in April 2016 when he met members of Netanyahu's government and laid a wreath at the Holocaust memorial Yad Vashem. Israel's foreign ministry stressed at the time that it was a "strictly private visit" that included no official meetings. - Anti-Semitic influence? - Before the election Strache wrote to Netanyahu that Israel "possesses the right to build wherever is required in the Land of Israel" and that Austria's embassy should be moved to Jerusalem. Kurz said in the interview that "it is not the time to talk about such a sensitive question" as moving Austria's representation to the disputed city from Tel Aviv. The FPOe was created by ex-Nazis in the 1950s and campaigners say that incidents of anti-Semitism and racism by party officials continue. Austria's Jewish Community (IKG) organisation warned Kurz on Tuesday that a coalition with the FPOe could see people with "anti-Semitic, racist and eurosceptic beliefs" influence the government. "The FPOe behaved itself during the election campaign. But what the FPOe says and what the FPOe does are two different things," IKG chief Oskar Deutsch said. Netanyahu congratulated Kurz in a telephone call on Monday night while calling for the fight against anti-Semitism to continue. An Israeli official speaking on condition of anonymity said Tuesday it was "premature to take any position while the Austrian coalition is not yet formed". Kurz was due to meet on Tuesday afternoon Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen. He is expected to give Kurz a mandate later in the week to form a government. Rojda Felat, a commander of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commander, waves the alliance's flag in Raqa's Al-Naim square on October 17, 2017 as it proclaims victory in the battle for the onetime Islamic State group bastion The Islamic State group seized swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014, but its self-declared caliphate has now been crushed and it has lost its de facto Syrian capital Raqa. Here are some of the major defeats IS has suffered as it faced offensives on multiple fronts in its ferocious battle for survival. Syria KOBANE: The Kurdish town in northern Syria became an early symbol of the fight against IS when the jihadists were driven out by US-backed Kurdish forces in January 2015 after a battle of more than four months. PALMYRA: This ancient desert city was seized by IS in May 2015 when the jihadists blew up UNESCO-listed Roman-era temples and looted ancient relics. Syrian regime forces backed by allied militia and Russian warplanes ousted them in March 2016, but the extremists won back control by the end of that year before being expelled a second time in March 2017. MANBIJ: IS seized this strategic town near the border with Turkey in 2014 and used it as a hub for moving jihadists and supplies to and from Europe. It was recaptured in August 2016 after a two-month battle led by a coalition of Arab and Kurdish fighters backed by US air strikes. DABIQ: Syrian rebels supported by Turkish warplanes and artillery captured Dabiq in October 2016. Under IS control since August 2014, the fight for the city was significant because of a prophecy that Christian and Muslim forces will battle there at the end of time. An Islamic State (IS) group flag is taken down in Syria's ancient city of Palmyra on March 27, 2016, after government troops and allied militia recaptured it from the jihadists RAQA: A US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters launched an operation to capture Raqa in November 2016. The battle for Raqa saw months of brutal urban warfare that levelled parts of the city as jets from a US-led coalition pounded the jihadists' dwindling foothold. On October 17, 2017, the US-backed force announced it had "taken full control of Raqa" after storming the final few IS holdouts. DEIR EZZOR: In early September 2017, Russian-backed Syrian forces broke a three-year IS siege of a government enclave in this eastern city before ousting the jihadists from much of the rest of it. Regime forces have simultaneously pushed down the Euphrates valley towards the Iraqi border. On October 14, they captured the IS-held town of Mayadeen, some 45 kilometres (30 miles) downstream. HAMA/HOMS: Government forces supported by Russian jets also pushed IS out of its last toehold in Hama province in early October. But the group still has a presence in neighbouring Homs province, where it has looked to stage a counterattack. Iraq Iraqi federal police wave the national flag as they celebrate in the Old City of Mosul on July 9, 2017 after the government announced the "liberation" of the second city from the Islamic State group TIKRIT: The hometown of executed dictator Saddam Hussein, north of Baghdad, fell to IS in June 2014. It was retaken in March 2015 by Iraqi troops, police and Shiite-dominated paramilitary forces. SINJAR: Iraqi Kurdish forces backed by US-led coalition air strikes captured this northwestern town in November 2015, a year after the jihadists overran it killing or abducting into sex slavery thousands of its Yazidi Kurdish residents. RAMADI/FALLUJAH: The capital of Anbar, Iraq's largest province, Ramadi was declared fully recaptured in February 2016. Neighbouring Fallujah, the first Iraqi city seized by jihadists in January 2014, was retaken in June 2016. QAYYARAH: Iraqi forces backed by coalition aircraft retook Qayyarah in August 2016, providing Baghdad with a platform to move on Mosul, the country's second city 60 kilometres (40 miles) away. MOSUL: Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared victory in Mosul on July 9 this year after a nine-month offensive that a senior US commander called "the most significant urban combat to take place since World War II". TAL AFAR: The last major IS urban stronghold in northern Iraq was declared "liberated" on August 31. HAWIJA: Iraqi forces backed by paramilitaries and US air power claimed the recapture of this besieged IS enclave on October 5 after a two-week offensive. Iraqi paramilitaries of the Hashed al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation) force pose with the national flag in the historic citadel in Tal Afar after retaking the northern town from the Islamic State group on August 27, 2017 EUPHRATES VALLEY: Iraqi forces have also pushed up the Euphrates river to dislodge IS from a stretch adjoining the Syrian border in what the US has billed as the "final large fight" against the jihadists in the country. After the recapture of the town of Anna, some 2,000 IS fighters are believed to be cornered in an area including the towns of Rawa and Al-Qaim. acm-burs/br/del/kir Activists and jeepney drivers hold banners during a jeepney transport strike held in Manila on October 16 Firebrand Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte threatened Tuesday to scrap by next year the "jeepneys" that have become a national symbol, as he became embroiled in a showdown with the mass transport industry. The flamboyantly-decorated but smoke-belching vehicles were originally converted from surplus World War II US army jeeps but now largely use reconditioned diesel engines from Japan. Citing pollution and health concerns, Duterte said Tuesday the old jeepneys would have to be switched for modern and less-polluting versions by 2018. His threat came after a two-day strike by jeepney operators led by the transport group PISTON, which had previously rejected the modernisation scheme. "You know, you are poisoning the people... one third of Filipinos are poor and they will die from lung cancer because you do not want to fix your used engines," Duterte said in a speech to military men, referring to the jeepney operators. "This is what I will do: either you must modernise next year those jeeps of yours, you must sell them to the junkyard. Next year I do not want to see any single PUJ (public utility jeepney.) All those still operating will be towed off the streets," he added. For decades the colourfully decorated jeepney has served as the main form of public transport and a symbol of Filipino creativity. The government wants them replaced with less polluting vehicles, either with better engines or electrical power and with modern safety measures. PISTON president George Mateo said Duterte's threat was unrealistic as it would take more time to replace the 240,000 jeepneys across the archipelago. While the government had offered programmes to help the jeepney owners replace their old vehicles with new ones, Mateo said the new versions were too expensive and the ownership schemes would displace small operators. He charged that it was Duterte who had previously challenged them to stage a transport strike, resulting in their protest on Monday and Tuesday which forced the government to call off school classes and shut government offices. "He is arrogant, anti-poor," said Mateo. Despite threats to arrest jeepney operators, Mateo warned of an bigger transport strike if Duterte pushed through with his plan. "We have no choice but to fight back." An Indian visitor gives a finger impression to withdraw money from his bank account with his Aadhaar card India ordered an investigation Tuesday into whether the death of a young girl was caused by a government error that saw her family denied food rations. The girl's mother and social welfare activists said the 11-year-old from Jharkhand state died of starvation last month after officials refused to give the family food because their personal documentation was not in order. More than 360 million Indians -- nearly one-third of its 1.25 billion people -- live below the poverty line and are entitled to access food rations under government schemes. Jharkhand chief minister Raghubar Das said he was deeply pained by the girl's death and ordered an immediate enquiry into the incident. "Strict action will be taken if anyone is found guilty," he posted on social media, as public outrage grew over the tragedy. The family held a ration card for low-income families and a unique ID connected to a government biometric programme, according to the girl's mother Koyli Devi. But she said officials insisted the two IDs needed to be linked before she could receive the handouts, citing a government order to that effect. Activists have accused the government officials of breaching a Supreme Court ruling that all low-income Indians were entitled to rations with or without the government biometric "Aadhaar" card. "The government is trying to shift blame, but the fact is the family was forced to eat leaves as they had no food at all for days," said Balram, a local activist who goes by one name. "The autopsy (done on the girl) also shows she died of starvation. The mother is severely malnourished herself and is hospitalised," he told AFP. Devi, the girl's illiterate mother, said nobody in her family had eaten for days and the young girl simply could not go on. "She used to get a free midday meal in school, but since it was also closed for (the Durga Puja) festival, she missed out on that too," Devi told local broadcaster NDTV. Launched in 2009, the Aadhaar programme aimed to provide identity cards to millions of poor people and enable them to access benefits directly without intermediaries taking an unlawful cut. But opponents said the government's push to make the card compulsory threatens to violate citizens' right to privacy and the scheme has been challenged in India's highest court. A general view taken on July 6, 2017 shows the Jewish settlement of Kokhav Yaakov, north of Ramallah, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Israeli authorities on Tuesday advanced plans for 1,292 settler homes in the occupied West Bank, in a new push by the government for such approvals, settlement watchdog Peace Now told AFP. "They are all over the West Bank," spokeswoman Hagit Ofran said, without immediately providing a breakdown. She said further approvals were expected to come on Wednesday. They are part of nearly 4,000 settler home plans to be advanced in the West Bank under a push to greatly boost settlement growth, an Israeli official has said. On Monday, an Israeli committee approved permits for 31 settler homes in Hebron, the first such green light for the flashpoint West Bank city since 2002. Several hundred Israeli settlers live in the heart of Hebron under heavy military guard among some 200,000 Palestinians. The Hebron units are to be built on Shuhada Street, formerly an important market street leading to a holy site where the biblical Abraham is believed to have been buried. The street is now largely closed off to Palestinians. Settlement building in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem is considered illegal under international law. It is also seen as a major obstacle to peace as the settlements are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state. How many of us remember Stanley K. Hathaway? Or Thomas S. Kleppe? How many folks are concerned about where David Bernhardt may be? Not exactly household names? Hathaway and Kleppe were both secretaries of the Interior, and both came from states neighboring Montana (Hathaway from Wyoming, Kleppe from North Dakota). Both served in the mid-1970s, and now mostly reside on lists of Interior secretaries. As for Bernhardt, he is currently deputy secretary of the Interior. We bring their names up not as some extreme trivia question, but as the best demonstration that citizens don't hang on every move nor every leader within the Department of The Interior. While anyone working for the Department of The Interior deserves our thanks, especially in a place with plenty of public lands like Montana, the leaders who serve or who have served aren't exactly a top concern or even top of mind. Yet Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke believes that it is essential that Interior employees and the public know exactly when he is in the office. In a rather unbelievable story published in The Washington Post, Zinke has ordered that the Department of the Interior Secretary flag (yes, there is such a thing) be flown above the Interior's office building when he is there, and taken down when he leaves. The gesture gets repeated daily, and is a custom apparently borrowed from the military. When Zinke is not on site in D.C., a flag is flown whenever the deputy secretary is in the building. The Washington Post reports that many of the cabinet-level secretaries have their own flags, although they haven't been used in decades. Apparently the pretentious gesture does little more than add to wasteful government spending by buying useless flags. In addition, it also serves as a snooty reminder of just how much Zinke apparently thinks of himself that he needs a flag to announce his arrival. Spokeswoman Heather Swift had the chutzpah to claim that flying the flag when Zinke was in the building was a matter of accountability you know, people can actually tell when he's at the office. Yet was that really the issue with voters? Do voters really believe that cabinet secretaries don't show up at the office? We think more citizens are concerned about what Zinke does once he's at the office, not where is he actually at. Wasting what is probably a nominal amount on a flag that no one recognizes is problematic: That's the entire purpose of a flag everyone has to understand the symbol. Beyond that, government officials have to go to the work of raising and lowering a flag when Zinke is around. If that's not a waste of government time, we don't know what is. For an administration that pledged to redouble efforts on matters important to the American people, Zinke would do well to remember the people aren't clamoring for more flags. The gesture isn't symbolic, as Zinke's staff would have you believe, it's exactly what's wrong with government. No one is worried about when Zinke is in "garrison" as his staff puts it. The Trump Administration has touted that it is draining the swamp and returning America back to the citizens. But having the heraldry of a flag announcing that Zinke is in the building is an elitism that seems more fit for royalty and demonstrates that Zinke believes a certain amount of genuflection is order. The Washington Post reports that Zinke also has commissioned commemorative coins with his name on them to give to staff and visitors. Zinkes predecessors and some other Cabinet secretaries have coins bearing agency seals, but not personalized ones. These actions are pompous and a betrayal of his Montana roots. Montana is the kind of place where most of us know our senators and governor by their first name. We live in a state that values face-to-face conversation that doesn't have to happen through intermediaries and underlings. We also believe a nod, handshake or the quick honk of a horn is enough of a greeting. We don't need flags. Beyond the sheer arrogance it takes to announce your presence with flags, Zinke's actions are not historic and they're not a move toward transparency. Instead, they represent militarization of civilian government. The tradition of flying flags has its American roots in the military when commanders were on site. While Zinke's service in the military is admirable, secretary of Interior is not a military post. We're not a government run by the military. This is a civilian government still. While we don't doubt Zinke's long military career may help him in leadership, it was not a prerequisite. Secretary Zinke, running a flag up a flagpole may earn you a salute from your staff, but it won't earn you respect. Survivors of Somalia's worst-ever bombing were taken to Turkey for treatment Somalia's allies sent planes carrying medical supplies and doctors Tuesday, while the diaspora rallied to donate blood to help the country cope with the crushing aftermath of its worst ever bombing. At least 276 people were killed and 300 injured on Saturday when a truck packed with explosives blew up in a busy commercial district, according to the government, however medical sources suggest the death toll could be over 300. The disaster quickly overwhelmed the fragile health system of a country which has experienced nearly three decades of civil war and anarchy and is heavily dependent on foreign aid. Planes from the United States, Kenya and Qatar landed in Mogadishu on Tuesday. "We have received today three aircrafts carrying medical supplies from the USA, Qatar and Kenya and apart from the one from USA government, the other two will carry back wounded people, about 35 victims," Mogadishu mayor Tabid Abdi Mohamed told reporters. On Monday Turkey -- a leading donor and investor in Somalia -- ferried 35 wounded people to Ankara after its health minister, Ahmet Demircan, accompanied a plane carrying supplies, medics and disaster experts to the country. Djibouti's Health Minister Djama Elmi Okieh accompanied a team of specialist doctors and paramedics in a military aircraft to assist the wounded, according to state media. On Tuesday Kenyan Foreign Minister Amina Mohamed announced that the country would evacuate 31 injured Somalis for specialised treatment in Nairobi, and send 11 tonnes of medicine to the neighbouring country. In addition the Kenyan Red Cross launched a fundraising drive for victims of the attack. "This is a very good sign, for the fact that we are getting medical assistance because we cannot handle such a massive disaster," said Dr Abdukadir Haji Adem who runs Mogadishu's only free ambulance service AMIN. - Blood drive in 'Little Mogadishu' - According to his count the death toll stood at 302. Death tolls are notoriously difficult to establish in Mogadishu, with families often quickly taking victims away to be buried. At least 276 people were killed in Somalia's worst-ever bomb attack "When the tragedy happened, the telephone network was down and our coordination was very bad because we don't have walkie talkies, our equipment is insufficient to deal with a terrible incident like the one," he said. A GoFundMe page started by a Somali living in Sweden has raised 15,000 euros ($17,000) for the ambulance service -- which operates a fleet of 10 second-hand vehicles -- in only two days. Somalia's years of conflict, which began when Siad Barre's military regime collapsed in 1991, has created a diaspora of about two million people. The largest population of Somalis abroad is in Kenya, where hundreds lined up Wednesday in Nairobi's Eastleigh neighbourhood -- often dubbed Little Mogadishu -- to donate blood to be airlifted to their countrymen. "Quite a number of the casualties what they need at the moment is blood ... the turnout is massive, we have a lot of donors, we are really overwhelmed," said Abdi Nasir Dahir of Kenya's national blood transfusion services. The blast occurred in Hodan, destroying some 20 buildings in a bustling commercial district, leaving scores of victims burned beyond recognition. Several experts told AFP the truck was probably carrying at least 500 kilos (1,100 pounds) of explosives. - No claim from Shabaab - There has been no immediate claim of responsibility, but the Shabaab, a militant group aligned with Al-Qaeda, carries out regular suicide bombings in Mogadishu in its bid to overthrow Somalia's internationally-backed government. The group has a history of not claiming attacks whose scale provokes massive public outrage. Already more than 100 unidentified people have been buried who were burned beyond recognition. While the rapid burial is partly due to Islamic culture, the Somali government also has no proper morgue nor the capability to carry out forensic tests to identify the victims. "The government exhausted every effort to identify these dead bodies ... but it became so difficult that it decided to bury them all together," said local government official Muhidin Ali. The devastating attack is a blow to Somalia's fledgling government, coming eight months after President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed was elected to great fanfare in a limited voting process that was nevertheless seen as the most democratic yet in the notorious failed state. A boy injured in the Mogadishu bombing is among the injured people taken to Turkey for treatment He came into office declaring war on Shabaab, which has carried out regular attacks on Mogadishu since African Union and Somali troops drove them out of the capital in 2011. According to the Nairobi-based Sahan thinktank, at least 723 people were killed and over 1,000 injured in bomb attacks in 2016 in Somalia. Qatar National Bank, the emirate's largest lender, reported a healthy increase in the net profits for the both third quarter and the first nine months of the year. diplomatic crisis to hit the region in years The threat to Qatari banks' funding and liquidity, triggered by withdrawals of foreign deposits amid a Saudi-led boycott of Doha, appears to be fading, Fitch Ratings said on Tuesday. Qatari banks' overall funding increased slightly in August, according to a report released by Fitch, the first upward movement since the boycott began in June, sparked by accusations of Doha's ties to radical groups. Funding by the Qatar Central Bank, which rose sharply in June, slowed in August, suggesting that banks no longer needed the support, the London-based agency said. The cash outflow has been replaced largely by Qatari public-sector deposits, inflows from international asset managers, debt and issuance of Islamic sukuk bonds to international investors, Fitch said. Fitch warned however that "as long as the boycott continues, risks to funding remain, and higher funding costs are weighing on bank (profit) margins". In June, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain severed diplomatic ties with Qatar and imposed economic sanctions on Doha, accusing it of sponsoring Islamist extremists. Doha denies the charges. Last month, Moody's Investors Service estimated that around $30 billion were withdrawn from Qatar's banking system in June and July. Moody's estimated that Qatar used $38.5 billion -- equivalent to 23 percent of its GDP -- to support the economy in the first two months of sanctions. Qatar National Bank, the emirate's largest lender, last week reported a healthy increase in the net profits for the both third quarter and the first nine months of the year. A general view taken on July 6, 2017 shows the Jewish settlement of Kokhav Yaakov, north of Ramallah, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Israeli authorities advanced plans Tuesday for 1,292 settler homes in a new push by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank, an NGO said. The approvals came after government officials pledged a major boost in settlement home approvals this year, with US President Donald Trump so far much less critical of such plans than his predecessor Barack Obama. Settlement watchdog Peace Now reported the approvals by a committee overseeing settlement construction in the West Bank. A list provided by the NGO showed homes to be built in several locations across the territory, including 146 in Nokdim, a southern West Bank settlement near Bethlehem where Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman lives. Hagit Ofran of Peace Now said further approvals were likely on Wednesday, with more than 2,000 units expected to be on the agenda over the course of the two-day meeting. Separately on Monday, an Israeli committee approved permits for 31 settler homes in Hebron, the first such green light for the flashpoint West Bank city since 2002. Several hundred Israeli settlers live in the heart of Hebron under heavy military guard, among some 200,000 Palestinians. The Hebron units are to be built on Shuhada Street, formerly an important market road leading to a flashpoint holy site where the biblical Abraham is believed to have been buried. The street is now largely closed off to Palestinians. Palestinian presidential spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina condemned the latest spate of settlement activity. "Netanyahu defies the world, and especially President Trumps administration, with his insistence on continuing settlements on the land of the state of Palestine," he said in a statement published by official news agency WAFA. - Two-state solution threatened - Trump is seeking to restart peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians, which have been frozen since a US-led initiative collapsed in 2014. Settlement building in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem is considered illegal under international law. It is also seen as a major obstacle to peace as the settlements are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state. Netanyahu's right-wing coalition government leans heavily on settlers and their supporters to maintain its thin parliamentary majority. Israel took heavy criticism on settlement construction from Obama's administration, but that has not been the case with Trump. Israeli officials say a total of around 12,000 housing units will be given various stages of approval this year, four times the amount in 2016. Last month, US ambassador to Israel David Friedman, himself a supporter of settlements, enraged Palestinians when he told an Israeli TV interviewer that Israel is "only occupying two percent of the West Bank". The Yesha Council, which represents settlers across the West Bank, welcomed the ambassador's comments. More than 60 percent of the West Bank is under near complete Israeli control, the UN says, while a further portion of the territory is under Israeli security control. The portion of the West Bank that is in theory under both Palestinian civilian and security control still sees raids by Israeli soldiers. About 430,000 Israeli settlers live among 2.6 million Palestinians in the West Bank, occupied by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War. The Palestinians have grown increasingly concerned by Trump and his team -- including Friedman -- who have yet to publicly commit to the idea of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, the so-called "two-state solution." Prominent members of Netanyahu's coalition openly oppose the idea of a Palestinian state and advocate annexing most of the West Bank. Netanyahu recently said he plans no uprooting of settlements, blaming Palestinian "incitement" and attacks against Israelis, among other issues, for the lack of progress in peace efforts. Tanzanian opposition politician Tundu Lissu was reportedly shot in the stomach and leg, at his home after returning from a parliamentary session Tanzanian opposition figure Tundu Lissu, who was shot and critically injured at his home last month, is now out of intensive care, his party CHADEMA said Tuesday. Lissu, who was attacked on September 7, left the unit at a hospital in Nairobi last week, after having undergone 17 operations, CHADEMA chief Freeman Mbowe told media in Dar es Salaam. He can now eat and sit without help and no longer requires respiratory support, Mbowe said. When Lissu eventually leaves hospital, he will receive further treatment outside Nairobi, Mbowe added, refusing to give details for what he said were security reasons. Lissu, 49, was shot in the stomach and leg, according to local media reports, at his home in Tanzania's administrative capital Dodoma after returning from a parliamentary session. According to party leaders, Lissu had previously complained of being "tailed" by a car and repeatedly said he feared assassination. The opposition figure has had a series of run-ins with the government of President John Magufuli and had been arrested at least six times this year, accused of insulting the president and disturbing public order, among other charges. Tanzanian police say they have opened an investigation, but Mbowe on Tuesday repeated calls for an international inquiry, describing the local force as being controlled by Magufuli's Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party. Members of forces loyal to Libyan military strongman Khalifa Haftar fire mortar shells during clashes with militants in Benghazi on July 19, 2017 Talks between representatives of rival authorities in strife-torn Libya have hit a new snag after a parliamentary delegation suspended its participation in the UN-backed discussions hosted by Tunisia. Years of political turmoil since the 2011 overthrow of long-time dictator Moamer Kadhafi have left Libya divided between rival governments and beset by violence as militia forces battle for power. The UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA), based in Tripoli since March 2016, has struggled to impose its authority across the country, particularly in the far east, dominated by military strongman Khalifa Haftar who supports a rival parliament. On Monday night, the head of the delegation representing the parliament based in the east, Abdessalem Nssya, accused the rival authorities of backtracking on several points. Nssya said his team was suspending its participation in the talks which have been under way in Tunis since September 26, after UN envoy Ghassan Salame presented a plan to end the chaos in Libya. Representatives of the rival Libyan authorities have already held two rounds of talks in Tunisia aimed at amending a UN-backed political agreement struck in 2015. The deal had led to the creation of the GNA, a unity government headed by Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj. During the first round of talks in September, rival Libyan politicians had agreed to set up a three-member Presidency Council and a new government. Disagreement centres on an article of the 2015 deal which gives the GNA the power to name the head of the armed forces. A second round of talks was held this week and reached a "pivotal" point "when both sides came close to a clearer understanding of the selection-mechanism for the Presidency Council", the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said in a statement. UNSMIL said the meeting was later adjourned to allow for "internal consultations" to take place on Tuesday, noting that "much work remains ahead" but without specifying when the talks will resume. Salame presented a roadmap to the United Nations on September 20, proposing that a new constitution be put before a referendum, paving the way for elections in Libya. Migrants were discovered in a truck parked in this Walmart parking lot in San Antonio, a city that is a two-hour drive from the US-Mexico border An American who drove an unventilated truck packed with undocumented migrants across the US-Mexico border, resulting in 10 deaths, has pleaded guilty to human smuggling charges. James Matthew Bradley, 61, acknowledged Monday he had conspired to transport and had in fact transported "aliens resulting in death," -- admitting to his role in the July drama in which as many as 200 Mexican and Guatemalan migrants were crammed into a sweltering tractor trailer, prosecutors announced. Bradley faces up to life in prison, after prosecutors said they would not seek the death penalty. His sentencing has been scheduled for January 22. Police, responding to an emergency call by an employee at a San Antonio Walmart -- not far from the border with Mexico -- discovered 39 undocumented migrants in or near the truck parked in the store's lot. The trailer's air conditioning was broken and ventilation holes were clogged. The migrants told police that they took turns breathing out of one usable ventilation hole, and some people passed out from the heat. Of the 10 who perished, eight died inside the truck and two at area hospitals. Bradley was arrested at the scene. "This case is a glaring reminder that alien smugglers are driven by greed and have little regard for the health and well-being of their human cargo," Homeland Security Investigations agent Shane Folden said in a statement. A federal grand jury in September indicted alleged co-conspirator Pedro Silva Segura, 47, on smuggling and conspiracy charges. He was identified as an undocumented immigrant living in the Texas border city of Laredo. In court documents filed earlier in the case, migrants interviewed by police recounted a harrowing journey. They described banging on the walls to get Bradley's attention as they struggled to breathe while some succumbed to the heat and passed out. "The driver never stopped," according to one of the migrants interviewed, identified only as J.M.M-J. "People had a hole in the trailer wall to provide some ventilation and they started taking turns breathing from the hole." The migrants' interviews offered a window into human smuggling supported by violent Mexican cartels, in which migrants paid thousands of dollars to make the journey to the United States. J.M.M-J said he was a Mexican national and part of a group of 29 people who were smuggled into the United States, joining another 70 migrants already in the truck's trailer at a rendezvous point. According to the migrant's recollection, his smuggler said "people linked to the Zetas" cartel were offering protection for the journey through Mexico to the US border, and that once arriving in the country, he was to pay $5,500. Fighters from the armed wing of Palestinian movement Hamas march in the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis on July 20, 2017 Israel's government decided Tuesday not to negotiate with a Palestinian unity government that includes Hamas if the Islamist movement does not disarm, recognise the country and give up violence. The decision by the security cabinet, announced in a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, comes after rival Palestinian movements Fatah and Hamas signed a landmark unity deal last week aimed at ending their decade-long split. The statement said negotiations would not be held until a range of conditions were met -- and it seemed unlikely that all demands could be reached. "The government of Israel will not carry out political negotiations with a Palestinian government that relies on Hamas, a terror organisation which calls for the destruction of Israel, until it fulfils the following conditions," the statement said. Beyond the initial three demands, it also said Hamas must no longer be supported by Iran, which provides it with military assistance. In addition, it said the remains of two missing Israeli soldiers must be returned from the Gaza Strip to Israel. Three Israeli civilians believed held in Gaza, all said to be mentally unstable, must also be returned, it said. In Gaza, Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum told AFP that the organisation would ignore such "blatant Zionist interventions in Palestinian issues." "The response must be to continue to strengthen the internal Palestinian front, and complete the reconciliation in every file under what was agreed in the Cairo agreement," he added. Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah, based in the occupied West Bank, and Hamas, which runs the Gaza Strip, signed the unity agreement in Cairo on Thursday. Abbas spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina also dismissed the Israeli declaration. "Israeli remarks will not change the official Palestinian position to move forward with reconciliation efforts and achieve the hopes and aspirations of our people," he said in a statement to official news agency WAFA. "The international community, including the American administration, has welcomed the return of the Palestinian national authority to the Gaza Strip," he added. The Abbas-led Palestine Liberation Organisation has recognised Israel, unlike Hamas. - Gaza humanitarian crisis - The Palestinian Authority, currently dominated by Fatah, is due to resume control of the Gaza Strip by December 1 under the deal. However, previous such attempts at reconciliation have repeatedly failed. A major sticking point is expected to be Hamas's refusal to disarm its 25,000-strong armed wing. Hamas is considered a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union, but diplomats say it would be possible to form a unity government that they could deal with that does not officially include the Islamist movement. A previous attempt at a unity government in 2014 was made up of technocrats deemed acceptable by the international community, though that bid fell apart. Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since 2008, and the Gaza Strip has been under an Israeli blockade for around a decade. Egypt has also kept its border with Gaza largely closed in recent years. Hamas seized Gaza in 2007 in a near civil war with Fatah that followed an electoral dispute after polls won by the Islamist movement. After Hamas's victory, it faced demands from the international community that it renounce violence and recognise Israel, which it refused to do. Hamas has faced increasing isolation and deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip in recent months, including a severe electricity shortage. Abbas has imposed a series of sanctions on the Gaza Strip to pressure Hamas, including cutting electricity payments, which has worsened the shortages. Hamas has reached out to Cairo for help, hoping to have the Rafah border with Egypt opened. In return, Cairo has pressed Hamas to move forward on reconciliation with Fatah. With previous failed reconciliation attempts in mind, many analysts are treating the latest bid with caution, waiting to see if actual change will occur on the ground. Admiral Harry Harris, head of the US Pacific Command, warns that US diplomatic pressure on North Korea is backed by "credible" military power The top US commander in the Pacific warned Tuesday he must "imagine the unimaginable" in responding to the threat posed by the North Korea's nuclear weapons programme. Admiral Harry Harris, head of the US Pacific Command, made clear that while diplomacy remains the preferred option in pressing Pyongyang to abandon its atomic weapons programme, that approach is backed by "credible" military power. "Many people have talked about military options being unimaginable regarding North Korea," Harris said at an annual forum in Singapore. "Folks, I must imagine the unimaginable. And what is unimaginable to me are North Korean nuclear-tipped missiles delivered in Los Angeles, in Honolulu, in Seoul, in Tokyo, in Sydney, in Singapore," he said. US President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis "do not come to me and ask for diplomatic or economic solutions," he added, speaking at an event organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies. "They come to me and ask for hard power options and that's what I provide them." Tensions over North Korea's weapons programme have soared in recent months, with Pyongyang launching a flurry of missiles and conducting its sixth and most powerful nuclear test. Trump has engaged in an escalating war of words with the North's leader Kim Jong-Un, trading personal insults and threatening to "totally destroy" the country if it threatens the United States. But US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday that Trump wanted to avoid war, even though the president said on Twitter that Tillerson was "wasting his time" with diplomacy. Harris declined to comment when asked if the US military options included a preemptive strike. But he called Kim a "reckless dictator" and warned that "combining nuclear warheads with ballistic missiles in the hands of a volatile leader ... is a recipe for disaster." North Korea on Monday told the United Nations that it will never negotiate the dismantling of its nuclear weapons unless the United States reverses its "hostile" policy. The US and South Korea on Monday began a 10-day joint naval exercise in a fresh show of force against the North, with a US aircraft carrier and two US destroyers taking part. President of the Republic of South Sudan, Salva Kiir South Sudan's government has shown little interest in a new regional peace initiative that the United States has described as a final chance to end the war, the UN peacekeeping chief said Tuesday. The UN Security Council has thrown its weight behind the drive by the regional IGAD group to kick-start the peace process through its "revitalization forum" of a 2015 deal that has failed to take hold. "With regard to the revitalization forum announced by IGAD, the government has only given a lukewarm response," Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN under-secretary-general for peacekeeping, told the Security Council. Led by Ethiopia, foreign ministers of the seven-nation Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) met with President Salva Kiir this month and exiled rebel leader Riek Machar in South Africa. Kiir "reportedly committed to support the forum while asking a series of clarifications on its objectives that IGAD agreed to address in writing," said Lacroix. Machar and other opposition leaders have "declared cautious support to the process," he added. US Ambassador Nikki Haley is expected to travel to South Sudan this month to press for progress in ending the war that has killed thousands and driven nearly four million people from their homes. Haley, who will be the highest-ranking administration official to visit Africa, last month said the regional initiative is "the last chance at salvaging the peace agreement." The United States is South Sudan's biggest aid provider and a key supporter of its 2011 independence from Sudan. South Sudan descended into war in December 2013 when Kiir accused Machar, his former deputy, of plotting a coup. Lacroix said recent fighting in northern Jonglei and Upper Nile as well as in the Equatoria states were "cause for grave concern." The peacekeeping chief said the coming start of the dry season could lead to more fighting. The United Nations has 17,000 peacekeepers in South Sudan, tasked with protecting civilians. More than 200,000 people are sheltering at UN bases. An Iraqi boy drags a Kurdish flag as Iraqi forces advance towards the centre of Kirkuk during an operation against Kurdish fighters on October 16, 2017. Iraq's lightning seizure of oil-rich Kirkuk has pitched the country's main Kurdish factions against each other as Baghdad exploits deep divisions over an independence vote. Iraqi forces on Tuesday took control of five out of six oil fields in the disputed province, dealing a body blow to Kurdish finances and hopes of establishing a state after the controversial referendum last month. The advances were the latest in a fast-paced operation over the past few days that has seen central authorities reclaim the key territory as Kurdish forces retreated with little resistance. Behind the sudden Kurdish withdrawal was the historic rivalry between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (PDK) of regional president Massud Barzani and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). The adversaries -- which fought a civil war in the 1990s -- had locked horns over the September 25 poll which saw voters overwhelmingly back splitting from Iraq. Barzani, who has dominated the autonomous Kurdish region since the US-led 2003 invasion, was the driving force behind the ballot, pushing ahead with it despite Baghdad's fury and condemnation from the US, Turkey and Iran. Meanwhile the PUK, the party of Iraq's figurehead President Fuad Masum, supported a UN-backed plan for negotiations with Baghdad in exchange for ditching the referendum. - 'Betrayal' - In the wake of the referendum, as tensions have soared between the central government and the Kurds, the PDK-PUK feud has also burst to the surface. When Iraqi forces moved to retake Kirkuk, grabbed by the Kurds in 2014 as the Islamic State group rampaged across the country, fighters loyal to the PUK withdrew. "Some of our leaders cooperated in the redeployment of the government forces to Kirkuk," a senior party boss in the city told AFP. "They facilitated their entry without clashes." Iraqi government forces enter the Bai Hassan oil field, west of the multi-ethnic northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk, on October 17, 2017. The decision, he explained, came as Kurdish authorities refused to arm PUK fighters around Kirkuk despite Baghdad's repeated threats that it would move on the city. Another official on the front south of Kirkuk insisted that Kurdish forces only pulled back after "a dozen" of their fighters were killed. The loss of Kirkuk sparked angry recriminations from the PDK-aligned Kurdish peshmerga commanders. They accused their rivals of "betrayal and aiding a conspiracy" for allegedly siding with the central government. - 'Barzani's throne' - Many see the damaging intra-Kurdish spat as the result of pent-up resentment over Barzani's handling of the region. Critics saw the referendum gambit as a way to shore up his grip over Kurdistan and its lucrative oil revenues in the face of bitter opposition. "While we were occupied with protecting the Kurdish people, Massud Barzani was hustling to steal petrol and reinforce his influence," said Lahour Sheikh Zengi, the head of counter-terrorism in the PUK stronghold of Sulaimaniyah. "From now on we are not going to sacrifice our sons for the sake of Barzani's throne." PUK lawmaker Ala Talabani said that "no one knows" what had happened to the money from oil wells that Barzani has controlled since 2014. The Kurdish leader's recent moves have fuelled suspicions that he is looking to further extend his rule. A boy rides a bicycle flying the Iraqi national flag past a wall mural depicting the Kurdish flag close to Kirkuk. Barzani, who has lingered in power for years without a clear mandate after parliament extended his tenure in 2013, had bowed to pressure and decided not to run in elections next month. But the crisis over the referendum has thrown that ballot into doubt and Barzani has set up a new "leadership" body -- headed by himself. While the political future of Kurdistan is mired in uncertainty, one thing does seem increasingly clear. The internecine squabbles appear to have buried for now any hope of Kurdish independence. The regional government's coffers will be gutted without the oil revenue it once received from Kirkuk. "With the loss of these fields, Kurdish finances have been cut in half," French geographer and regional specialist Cyril Roussel told AFP. "It spells the end of Kurdistan's economic self-sufficiency and of the dream of independence." Without congressional action, companies offering health insurance on the Affordable Care Act exchange in North Dakota will absorb the loss of cost-sharing reductions rather than passing the cost to consumers. North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread announced he will hold insurance companies to previously filed rates for the ACA, also known as Obamacare, exchange. This is an issue that is between insurance carriers and the federal government, said Godfread, adding that, last summer, he asked insurance companies to develop two sets of numbers rates that assumed CSR renewal and rates that did not. Following President Donald Trumps announcement last week that his administration would no longer pay cost-sharing reductions, Godfread said he reopened the rate filings for companies. Those filings included an 8 to 10 percent increase request across the board. Godfread said "due diligence" is what prompted him to reopen the filings despite ultimately deciding to deny increases for this year. Godfread said he acted in order to protect the 22,000 North Dakotans who dont buy coverage on the health care exchange from an increase, along with the 5,000 to 10,000 who buy on the exchange but do not receive premium subsidies. Those eligible to receive premium subsidies were not affected by Trump's announcement and will continue to receive aid. The presidents announcement shifts the decision to Congress, which could choose to fund the cost-sharing reductions. Lawmakers in both parties had urged the administration to continue the payments. Despite Republicans' opposition to the payments, many realize ending them suddenly throws the market into chaos. Congress likely will come forward, making the issue moot, according to Godfread, who opted to leave the uncertainty with the insurance companies rather than consumers. Trump had been maintaining CSR payments on a month-to-month basis. Democrats are likely to attempt funding them through a spending bill aiming to keep the government operating after Dec. 8. Trump's move complicates the finalizing of the spending bill, which Republican senators were aiming to use as a platform for tax reform. Depending upon the plan, health insurance rates will still increase by an average range of 2.3 percent to 11.8 percent for about 30,000 North Dakotans enrolled in a small group plan, according to rates previously approved by Godfread's office. Rates for about 42,000 North Dakotans enrolled in individual plans will increase by an average range of 7.9 percent to 22.6 percent. About 84 percent of North Dakotans are covered by health insurance plans offered through employers. With hours remaining in the latest round of talks, the Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier and Europe's Airbus on Monday announced a partnership to begin US-based production of a passenger jet series at the center of a trade dispute with Washington A fourth round of talks to revamp a landmark North American free trade pact was due to close Tuesday, as delegates reacted to tough bargaining positions from Washington but vowed to continue the negotiations. With hours remaining in the latest round, the Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier and Europe's Airbus on Monday also announced a partnership to begin US-based production of a passenger jet series at the center of a trade dispute with Washington. President Donald Trump has persisted in threatening to scrap the 23-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement, even as negotiators claim they have inched towards common ground on issues including telecoms, digital trade and competition policy. This week's talks were extended by 48 hours to a full week to allow additional bargaining time for delegations from the United States, Mexico and Canada. All three sides are reportedly considering doing likewise for remaining talks this year -- or even extending them into early 2018, despite looming Mexican elections and the expiry of fast-track authority for US negotiators in the middle of next year. The talks have proceeded at a brisk pace, with rounds so far scheduled only about two weeks apart to cram in discussions of hot-button issues. Canadian officials have rejected US calls for greater access to Canada's protected dairy market. Sources close to the Canadian and Mexican delegations told AFP that while US demands were tough, both countries were committed to continuing with the talks. "We disagree with some of the proposals presented by the United States but we're not rejecting anything outright and we're still committed to the NAFTA negotiations," a source close to the Canadian delegation said. - 'Are these positions serious?' - But analysts say the US bargaining position has a number of elements its partners may find tough to swallow, including rules on access to government procurement and a possible five-year "sunset clause" on the agreement -- which could require the three countries to re-authorize the agreement rather than allow it to exist in perpetuity. Washington has also called for an end to certain forms of trade dispute arbitration and for US content requirements for auto manufacturing, which the auto industry itself opposes. Scott Miller, a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said US officials were advancing some positions -- particular fresh content requirements for auto manufacturing -- that were likely to be non-starters for US industry and lawmakers. "Why would any administration table provisions that actually subtract from their vote totals?" he asked. This could suggest Washington does not intend to arrive at a bargain acceptable to Congress anyhow, he added. "My questions are -- are these positions serious and if so, please name the constituents in American politics who think they're a good idea," he told AFP. "Or are they simply a way to create a narrative to defend withdrawing from NAFTA?" "I haven't been able to find as straight answer to that question," said Miller. Trump was propelled into the White House on a nationalist economic agenda and vowed to upend decades of prevailing trade policy, but stopped short of threats to do away with NAFTA. But the NAFTA talks have ruffled feathers among market participants and industry players across the North American region, reanimating long-standing criticism from labor and left-wing activists and while unnerving the powerful US Chamber of Commerce. US Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein (C) announces indictments to stop fentanyl and other opiate substances from entering the United States on October 17, 2017 The US Justice Department announced Tuesday the indictment of two Chinese producers of fentanyl, the synthetic opioid that causes a rising share of the country's 60,000-plus annual overdose deaths. But questions remained over whether the Trump administration will go after the US makers and distributors of legal opioids that have fuelled the nation's addiction crisis. Early Tuesday President Donald Trump's nominee to head the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Congressman Tom Marino, withdrew after news reports tied him to legislation that protected prescription drug distributors from prosecution for indiscriminately dumping hundreds of millions of tablets of highly addictive opioids like Oxycodone into the US market. "Rep. Tom Marino has informed me that he is withdrawing his name from consideration as drug czar. Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman!" Trump tweeted. Legal and illegal synthetic opioids were behind most of the 64,000 drug overdose deaths across the country in 2016, a record level expected to further rise this year. US Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein said Tuesday that 20,000 of those deaths resulted from fentanyl that is cheap to manufacture and is up to 50 times more potent than heroin. With the supply of prescription opioids on the market cut back in the past two years, addicts have turned to the cheapest alternative, fentanyl or heroin cut with fentanyl. Two Chinese, Zhang Jian and Yan Xiaobing, were indicted for supplying two separate distribution networks with fentanyl, one of them also operating in Canada. They said Yan operated at least two chemical plants in China able to produce fentanyl by the tonne. Yan could allegedly alter the chemical makeup of the fentanyl to evade US laws, and had at least 100 distributors working for him. US officials alleged Zhang had four fentanyl-producing laboratories and sold the drug over the Internet, paid for by crypto-currencies and shipped by international parcel services. Zhang and Yan "represent one of the most significant drug threats facing the country -- overseas organized crime group capable of producing nearly any synthetic drug imaginable," said DEA Acting Administrator Robert Patterson. US officials would not say if the two traffickers had been arrested or their plants shut by the Chinese authorities. Tuesday's announcement came days after The Washington Post and 60 Minutes reported on how intensive lobbying in Congress by producers of prescription opioids and the support of a few legislators including Marino led to a 2016 law that weakened DEA efforts to crack down on them and prevent their drugs from hitting the streets. Patterson insisted that the DEA has not let up on policing the industry and has the tools to do so, but would not say if the agency was investigating any of the major prescription opioid distributors. Tunisian rescuers pulled more bodies from the sea Tuesday a week after a migrant boat sank following a crash with a navy vessel, the defence ministry said, raising the death toll to 44. Nine corpses were found trapped inside the migrant boat that went down in the Mediterranean sea on October 8 after the collision off the coast of the Kerkennah islands, the ministry said. The defence ministry said search operations were ongoing. Tunisian women, who lost their children in the Mediterranean Sea as they attempted to cross into Europe by boat, demonstrate in Tunis on October 12, 2017 At the time of the collision, the ministry said eight migrants drowned and 38 others were rescued, while NGOs and survivors spoke of dozens still missing. An NGO, the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), estimates the boat carried between 80 and 100 migrants. One of the migrants rescued after the tragedy told AFP that 90 people had been on board, hoping to make their way to Italy. Others who survived the tragedy claimed that their boat had been deliberately struck by the navy vessel. Military prosecutors are investigating the claims. According to the International Organization for Migration, there has been a rise in the number of migrants trying to make the perilous sea crossing from Tunisia to Europe since summer. Small vessels have been heading for the Italian islands of Sicily and Lampedusa. Flavio di Giacomo, an Italian spokesman for the IOM, told AFP earlier this month that 1,400 Tunisians had arrived in Lampedusa and western Sicily in September alone. This is compared to 1,200 registered in Italy for all of 2016. A report by the FTDES last year said that half of Tunisian youths from low-income areas were thinking of leaving the country, and one in three was prepared to do so clandestinely. It blamed the situation on increasing poverty and unemployment in the North African country. Avi Gabbay, pictured in July 2017, said the concept of having to pull out of settlements in the Israeli-occupied West Bank as part of a peace treaty had become outdated The head of Israel's main opposition Labour party drew fire from the left and right on Tuesday after saying that Israeli settlements could be retained in a future peace with the Palestinians. In an interview Monday night with Israeli commercial TV Channel Two, Avi Gabbay said the concept of having to pull out of settlements in the Israeli-occupied West Bank as part of a peace treaty had become outdated. "If you make peace why do you need to evict (settlers)? I think that the terminology in which we are accustomed to speak here, by which if you make a peace treaty you evict people are not necessarily right," he said in Hebrew. "If you make a peace agreement you can find solutions that don't oblige you to dismantle (settlements)," he said. "You're making peace!" Gabbay, 50, was elected in July to head Labour, which has historically supported an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. On Tuesday he elaborated somewhat on his previous day's comments. "I am in favour of reaching a diplomatic solution which is based on two states for two peoples, where their state is demilitarised," he told Channel Two. Palestinians publicly demand an end to Israel's military occupation and its settlements, which are illegal under international law and seen by a large part of the international community as a main obstacle to peace. Hagit Ofran, of Israeli settlement watchdog Peace Now, said Gabbay was deceiving the public by proposing an outcome which would be unattainable in practice. "It is clear to everybody there will be no agreement without some vacating of settlements," she told AFP. "He should not be selling illusions to people." Much of the Israeli public believes that should a peace deal ever happen, the large groupings of settlements, where the majority of settlers live, will be annexed to the Jewish state and the Palestinians could be compensated with uninhabited Israeli land elsewhere. In his remarks on Tuesday Gabbay appeared to imply that the smaller, remote settlements could be given up, speaking of a future where specifically the settlement blocs "remain under our full sovereignty." "We need to prevent as far as possible eviction of Jews from their homes as we also need to avoid evicting Palestinians from their homes," he said. Political scientist Avraham Diskin, of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, said Gabbay was tapping into a consensus which had shifted since Labour's heyday decades ago. "He simply said something pragmatic which suits the reality and which the majority of the voters believe," he told AFP in Hebrew. "Perhaps he doesn't believe it himself but he wants to be elected, he wants to be prime minister, so he said what everybody thinks." Environment Minister Zeev Elkin, of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right wing Likud party, also believed Gabbay's comments were tactical rather than indicating a sea-change in Labour policy. "He is trying to dress the left in the clothes of the right," Elkin said. The Syrian Kurds of People's Protection Units (YPG) were key to the US-backed capture of Raqa from the Islamic State group, but Washington opposes the Iraqi Kurds quest for independence The fall of the Islamic State group's last bastion in Syria was a victory for Washington's military plan, but comes as the US political strategy for the region seems to stumble. Even as US-backed Kurdish fighters raised their flags over the shattered heart of Raqa, their brethren in Iraq were in retreat, abandoning oil-rich territory to Iraqi forces. The power shift shows that, while US leadership has kept a coalition together long enough to defeat the jihadists, the region's political future is far from secure. And experts warn that Washington's bitter foe Iran is poised to take advantage while US friends like the Iraqi Kurds retreat under pressure from Baghdad and Ankara. The Iraqi city Kirkuk and its rich oil fields are now in the hands of Baghdad government forces backed by Shiite militias, which lean towards Tehran for guidance. President Donald Trump says Washington will not "take sides," but it already appears too late for the Iraqi Kurds, once America's most reliable friends in the region. Just over two weeks after Iraqi Kurdistan voted massively for full independence, they have lost the territory they won during the US-backed fight against the Islamic State group. - 'It's over' - And, without Kirkuk's oil, their statelet has no economic lifeline and will live on precariously in some kind of tense accommodation with its more powerful neighbors. "It's over," sighs former US policy adviser David Pollock, a fellow of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy who visited Kurdish leaders in Arbil late last month. For Pollock the "medium term outcome is still up for grabs" but Iran has made "deliberate moves" and will gain influence as the Kurds fade back and Baghdad stands up. Turkey and Iran have not made good on threats to close Kurdistan's borders, so it may survive as an Iraqi region within three provinces allotted it in the constitution. "That's basically the deal. You've got to give up everything you got in the past three years, but we'll leave you alone. We'll let you live," Pollock told AFP. Washington opposed the Kurdish region's independence referendum, pleading with Massud Barzani's regional government until the last minute to call it off. "They were a bit late," said Linda Robinson, a senior military and foreign policy expert at the Rand Corporation with extensive field experience in the region. For Robinson, it should have been clear much earlier to US officials that Barzani was bent on a referendum that Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi could never accept. Facing a re-election fight next year, Abadi could not afford to face fellow Shiite opponents -- some of whom are hostile to Washington -- as the man who lost Kirkuk. Now, Robinson and others argue, the United States must be "much more active" in trying to recover the situation by pushing for negotiations between Arbil and Baghdad. - Ruined city - But the political maneuvering may have shaken regional confidence in America as an ally. Despite having relied on Kurdish fighters in the early stages of the battle against IS in Iraq, America decided that Baghdad was a better long term bet. In the three years since Mosul fell to the jihadists the once ramshackle Iraqi forces have been rebuilt with US and Iranian support and now they are in the ascendant. But in Syria Washington relies on another group of Kurds, the YPG militia of the Democratic Union Party (PYD), which formed the backbone of the US-backed push on Raqa. This unit, now part of the US-armed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), is born from the same leftist movement as the PKK Kurdish separatists fighting in Turkey. The IS group has been driven out of Raqa, but Kurdish SDF elements may not stay long in the mainly-Arab ruined city, and US ally Turkey opposes allowing them autonomy. Iraqi government forces equipped with US weapons and vehicles have taken control of the rich oil fields around the Kurdish-claimed city of Kirkuk US planners hope a local council can maintain security in Raqa until a negotiated end to the Syrian civil war, but Bashar al-Assad's Iran-backed regime is gaining ground. "The US used the Kurds against Daesh and left them on their own in Iraq. Maybe that will happen in Syria too," Pollock said, using the Arabic acronym for the IS group. In Iraq, at least, Washington has the Iraqi government to fall back on to provide stability. "We don't really have that option in Syria," Pollock warned. President Xi Jinping's opening speech was delivered to some 2,300 delegates assembled in the Great Hall of the People President Xi Jinping declared China has embarked on a "new era" of challenges and opportunities on Wednesday as he opened a Communist Party congress expected to enhance his already formidable power. Xi told some 2,300 delegates at the imposing Great Hall of the People that the party must "resolutely oppose" any actions that undermine its leadership as it steers a course through a high-stakes period in its development. "The situation both domestic and abroad is undergoing profound and complex changes," said Xi, who is expected to secure a second five-year term as general secretary and stack leadership positions with loyalists during the twice-a-decade congress. "China's development is still in a stage of important strategic opportunities. The prospects are bright, but the challenges are also severe," he said in a marathon speech that exceeded three hours and was met by waves of applause. "Socialism with Chinese characteristics has entered a new era," he said, envisioning a "great modern socialist country" by mid-century. Speaking in front of a massive hammer and sickle, Xi touted his nationalistic "China dream" slogan, vowed to open the economy, promised to win the fight against poverty, and pointedly warned he would continue his "zero tolerance" campaign against corruption. No caption Considered China's most powerful leader since Deng Xiaoping or even Mao Zedong, Xi could use the congress to lay the foundation to stay atop the 89-million-strong party even longer than the normal 10 years, according to analysts. That would break the unwritten two-term limit accepted by his immediate predecessors Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao -- who were by Xi's side at the congress -- and end the era of "collective leadership" aimed at preventing the emergence of another Mao. Another signal of Xi's rise to the pantheon of Chinese leadership would be if his name is added to the party constitution, an honour that has only been bestowed upon modern China's founder, Mao, and the father of economic reforms, Deng. "I want to sum up Xi's speech in one sentence: It is the political declaration of the Xi era," Chinese politics scholar Chen Daoyin told AFP. "It is different from Mao's era and Deng's reform and opening era... Now we have entered an era of becoming strong." - 'Tigers and flies' - Xi's rise has been marked by a relentless crackdown on dissent, with authorities even refusing to free Nobel peace prize laureate Liu Xiaobo as he lay dying of cancer in July. Potential rivals have also been swept aside under Xi's vast anti-corruption drive, which punished 1.3 million Communist Party officials over five years. Xi said the campaign has been "unswervingly fighting against 'tigers', 'beating flies', 'hunting foxes'" -- terms used for lower- and higher-ranking officials and fugitives. A man walks past decorations for the Communist Party's 19th Congress in Tiananmen Square, on the eve of its opening On other fronts, Xi touted efforts to complete the army's modernisation by 2035 and build artificial islands in the disputed South China Sea. In a stern warning to self-ruled Taiwan, he said China has the "ability to defeat separatist attempts for Taiwan independence in any form". Xi, who has championed globalisation in the face of President Donald Trump's "America First" policies, vowed to further open up China's economy. Foreign companies complain that Xi's words have not been backed by deeds, as the state retains control over the economy. Trump, who will visit Beijing next month, has launched a trade investigation into China's intellectual property practises. "China will not close its doors to the world, we will only become more and more open," Xi said. - Any heir apparent? - Authorities stepped up policing for the week-long congress, with red armband-wearing "security volunteers" fanning out across the capital, karaoke bars closing and knife sales restricted. Chinese tech companies restricted social media users from changing their profile pictures and names, while positive messages dominated Twitter-like Weibo and photos circulated of children watching the speech in classrooms. The conclave, which will mostly meet behind closed doors and end next Tuesday, will select new top party members, including for the Politburo Standing Committee, China's all-powerful ruling body. Chinese soldiers march outside the Great Hall of the People on the eve of the opening of the 19th Communist Party Congress Xi and Premier Li Keqiang are expected to remain on the committee while the five other current members are supposed to step down under an informal retirement age set at 68. But analysts say Xi's 69-year-old right-hand man and anti-graft chief, Wang Qishan, could stay on, creating a precedent for Xi himself to remain in charge beyond retirement age in 2022. But a Xi heir apparent could emerge from the congress. One former potential successor who was outside Xi's circle, Sun Zhengcai, was ousted from the party last month due to graft allegations. Chen Miner, a former Xi aide who succeeded Sun as political chief in the city of Chongqing, is now well positioned for promotion. The Bahrain Defence Force will purchase 16 upgraded F-16 fighter jets Bahrain on Tuesday announced it had signed a $3.8 billion deal with Lockheed Martin for 16 upgraded F-16 fighter jets. The Bahrain Defence Force signed the agreement with the US company during a defence exhibition in the Gulf kingdom, home to the US Fifth Fleet, the state-run BNA news agency reported. US President Donald Trump has eased restrictions on arms sales to countries including Bahrain. Bahrain has been rocked by unrest since 2011, when protesters hit the streets to demand a constitutional monarchy and an elected government. The tiny Gulf archipelago has a majority Shiite population and has been ruled for more than two centuries by the Sunni Al-Khalifa dynasty. Bahraini authorities have come under harsh criticism for their crackdown on political dissent. Hundreds of protesters have been arrested since 2011 and a string of high-profile activists and clerics have been jailed or stripped of citizenship. The government has accused Iran of inciting unrest. Republican Senator Lamar Alexander helped strike a bipartisan deal that would fund for two years federal reimbursements to insurance companies that are vital to sustain the Affordable Care Act US senators announced Tuesday they had reached a bipartisan deal to continue a program that helps low-income Americans purchase health insurance, days after President Donald Trump cut such subsidies. Since taking office in January, Trump has sought to end the health reforms that took effect under former president Barack Obama allowing millions of uninsured people to get medical insurance. Repealing the Affordable Care Act -- commonly known as Obamacare -- was one of Trump's most strident campaign promises. He described Obamacare as a "total disaster" but his Republican Party has failed in efforts to repeal the reforms. Trump has, however, cut some government budgetary support for Obamacare, and last week announced the administration would halt payments to insurers that are designed to help millions of lower-income Americans afford coverage. He called those payments "a subsidy to the insurance companies" but said the White House would work with Congress for an interim solution before coming up with a longer-term plan. On Tuesday he signaled he would support the bipartisan agreement as "a short-term deal." Reached by Republican Lamar Alexander and Democrat Patty Murray, it would fund for two years the federal reimbursements to insurance companies that are vital to sustain the Affordable Care Act. The senators "have just announced they have an agreement," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters. Trump had backed legislation that would dismantle much of Obamacare in favor of a program that provides block grants to states to allow them greater flexibility in how to manage insurance coverage and costs. Some Republicans balked at supporting the bill and it never received a vote. Trump has stressed that he believes Congress will eventually pass some form of block grant legislation next year. In the meantime, Tuesday's agreement will "get us over this intermediate hump," he said. Alexander, who chairs the Senate Health Committee, said Republicans were rallying around the deal because they wanted to avoid "chaos" in the insurance markets. "The president likes this idea. So there is an emerging, encouraging consensus, and we'll see how far it goes," he told reporters. Democrats had blasted the order Trump made last week as a cruel and intentional "sabotage" of Obamacare. But the opposition party's top senator expressed support for the agreement reached Tuesday. "We've achieved stability if this agreement becomes law," said Senator Chuck Schumer, who described it as "a very good step forward." A US federal judge has blocked the latest ersion of President Donald Trump's controversial executive order on immigration, hours before it was due to go into full effect A US federal judge on Tuesday barred the White House from implementing yet another version of President Donald Trump's controversial executive order on immigration, hours before it was due to go into full effect. The decision by US District Judge Derrick Watson in Hawaii -- which the White House signaled it would appeal -- marks the latest blow to Trump's long-running efforts to restrict entry of travelers from targeted countries into the United States. Watson said the third rendition of the travel ban -- covering people from six mainly Muslim countries, as well as North Korea and some officials from Venezuela -- could not be justified under law. In his decision, Watson wrote the ban "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the entry of more than 150 million nationals from six specific countries would be 'detrimental to the interests of the United States.'" The ruling means the Trump administration could again ask the Supreme Court to decide whether his immigration orders are legal. - Legal saga - The newest order was announced last month to replace an expiring 90-day temporary ban on travelers from the Muslim-majority nations of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. The September decree removed Sudan from the list, but added Chad and North Korea for full bans and Venezuela for a ban limited to certain classes of officials. The White House justified the measure as needed to protect US national security -- but critics said it appeared virtually the same as the original order of January 27. Courts shot that version down saying it targeted Muslims, violating the US constitutional protections for religious freedom. A second version was only slightly adjusted and was quickly tied up in similar legal wrangling. In June, the Supreme Court accepted to review the case but let the 90-day ban go mostly into effect in the meantime. When the ban expired, the court said there was nothing to rule on. Trump went forward with a new version with no expiry date, tacking on North Korea and Venezuela to the list of targeted countries and implying the updated measure did not simply target Muslim countries. But Watson -- who also issued freezes on the first two attempts -- said the order does not improve US security, since individuals who pose risks can already be denied entry under existing law. The order "plainly discriminates based on nationality" in a manner antithetical to US laws "and the founding principles of this nation," he wrote. Watson placed a freeze on the ban on travelers from the six countries, but allowed it to be implemented on North Korea -- which sent only a handful of people to the United States last year -- and Venezuela, where US sanctions have also already made travel to the United States difficult for many officials. - 'Dangerously flawed' - The White House quickly rejected his argument, calling it "dangerously flawed" and promising to fight the action. "The entry restrictions in the proclamation apply to countries based on their inability or unwillingness to share critical information necessary to safely vet applications, as well as a threat assessment related to terrorism, instability and other grave national security concerns," it said. "We are therefore confident that the judiciary will ultimately uphold the president's lawful and necessary action and swiftly restore its vital protections for the safety of the American people." One of the most controversial changes in the latest version of the White House order was the addition of Chad, whose forces are working with US troops in the battle against Boko Haram extremists. But the administration appeared to be preparing to back away from this widely-criticized position. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert announced that in recent weeks the Chad government had shown a "clear willingness to work closely with us on these issues." She did not give any timeline, but said the US "is committed to working with Chad to address the deficiencies, toward the goal of improving vetting capabilities and lifting visa restrictions." Hundreds of Islamic State jihadists surrendered as the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces finished the push to recapture Raqa About 400 Islamic State members -- including foreign fighters -- have in recent weeks surrendered to US-backed forces in the jihadists' former Syrian stronghold Raqa, a US military official said Tuesday. Colonel Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the US-led coalition helping train and equip local forces in Syria and Iraq, said the bulk of those jihadists had surrendered over the past week, as operations to seize the city reached their final moments. The fighters had surrendered to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighter. "In the last few days, about 350 fighters surrendered to the SDF in Raqa, with several confirmed foreign fighters taken into custody after SDF screening," Baghdad-based Dillon told reporters in a video call. In recent weeks, an average of about four IS fighters had been surrendering each week, he added. The SDF announced they had fully captured Raqa after more than four months of fighting. "We have seen also that prior to these battles, once the area is isolated and before offensive operations begin, many of the leaders will often high-tail and leave," Dillon said. When asked what the US military footprint would be in Raqa going forward, Dillon said there remained considerable work to do in the city. "We must clear the remnants of all the explosives that have been left in Raqa throughout this battle," he said. A Raqa security force commander and two colleagues were killed Monday as they walked through the city and triggered a bomb, Dillon said. Elsewhere, the anti-IS coalition remains engaged in northern Iraq, particularly in the Anbar region, where allied aircraft have conducted more than 30 strikes in the past week. IS still holds two towns in this area near the Syrian border -- Al-Qaim and Rawa. In the strategic Iraqi city of Tal Afar, seized by Baghdad in August, IS abandoned large weapons caches including 550 homemade bombs, Dillon said. Jay Clemens will speak at the Badlands Conservation Alliance's annual meeting at 5 p.m. Sunday at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 818 Divide Ave. in Bismarck. Clemens, who owns private ranchland within the viewshed of the Elkhorn Ranch Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, is committed to long-term protection of his prime Badlands acreage, the Elkhorn Ranch and the larger Little Missouri Scenic River Valley. Clemens, who grew up in Mandan and holds a juris doctor from Harvard Law School, was instrumental in building the in-house legal function at eBay. Having recently retired as senior vice president at Lenora Group, he continues to devote a great deal of his time to service, including board positions for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation located in Dickinson and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. US author George Saunders poses with his book 'Lincoln in the Bardo' at the Royal Festival Hall in London on October 16, 2017 US author George Saunders became on Tuesday only the second American writer to win Britain's renowned Man Booker Prize, which was awarded for his first full-length novel "Lincoln in the Bardo". Judges for the prestigious English-language literary award praised as "utterly original" the book that chronicles the death of Abraham Lincoln's 11-year-old son Willie using the accounts of hundreds of narrators. "The form and style of this utterly original novel reveals a witty, intelligent, and deeply moving narrative," said Lola Young, chair of the judging panel, in announcing the prize at a ceremony in London. Saunders, 58, described the award as a "great honour, which I hope to live up to with the rest of my work, for the rest of my life." In a brief, politically-tinged acceptance speech, he made several thinly-veiled references to the controversial policies of US President Donald Trump. "We live in a strange time," he told the audience. "In the US now we're hearing a lot about the need to protect culture. Well, this tonight is culture." This year's Man Booker Prize shortlist pitted three US and three British writers against one another. The award, launched in 1969, was only open to writers from Commonwealth states until it began permitting authors from other English-speaking countries in 2014. Last year Paul Beatty became the first American to win the award for his novel "The Sellout". Saunders was the British bookmakers' favourite ahead of the announcement on Tuesday. In a lengthy and varied writing career, he has penned award-winning short story collections, essays, illustrated fables and a bestselling children's book, as well as many pieces of journalism. In 2006, he was awarded both a Guggenheim Fellowship and a MacArthur Fellowship, while in 2009 he received an Academy Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. The stone, which was unearthed in March, is the largest discovered in Sierra Leone in almost a half-century and is between the 10th and 15th largest ever found worldwide, experts say Sierra Leone said Tuesday it plans to auction off a massive 709-carat diamond at a December sale in New York, aiming to make a clean break with the "blood diamonds" of its past. The stone, which was unearthed in March, is the largest discovered in Sierra Leone in almost a half-century and is between the 10th and 15th largest ever found worldwide, experts say. Sierra Leone authorities told reporters that the massive gem will go up for sale on December 4 at Rapaport Auctions, which specialises in the diamond trade. The government has pledged to be transparent in the stone's sale, mindful of the history of cross-border diamond trafficking that fuelled Sierra Leone's civil war from 1991-2002. Such "blood diamonds" were often found by enslaved members of the population, who were killed or maimed by rebel groups if they refused to dig. The 709-carat behemoth was discovered by Emmanuel Momoh, an Evangelical pastor who is also one of hundreds of so-called artisanal miners in Kono, Sierra Leone's key mining district. Momoh said he hoped the sale would "improve the lives of the people by providing water, electricity, schools, health facilities, roads and bridges" in the Kono region. The state expects to collect 15 percent of the sale's proceeds and a 30-percent income tax. Sierra Leone had initially looked to sell the diamond at home but the best offer the country received was $7.7 million (6.5 million euros) in April, which the government deemed insufficient. It then decided to sell abroad. The rough stone was shown in Israel on Monday and Tuesday and will be on display in the Belgian city of Antwerp -- one of the world capitals for diamond trading -- from October 30 to November 10. The diamond -- known under its official name as the "diamond of peace" -- will then be shown at the United Nations in New York, authorities said. "We are grateful to the pastor for transferring the diamond to the government rather than smuggling it abroad," presidency spokesman Abdulai Bayratay said. Conflicts and controversy surrounding "blood diamonds" led the international community to enact a process known as "Kimberley" in 2003, which certifies diamonds as "conflict-free". President Trump's travel ban A federal judge on Tuesday barred the White House from implementing the most recent version of President Donald Trump's controversial travel ban, the latest in a long string of legal setbacks for the measure. Here are key dates this year in the long-running legal wrangling and subsequent revisions that have marked the battle over the ban: -- January 27: Just one week after his inauguration, Trump unveils his original executive order on immigration with no prior warning, sowing travel chaos and igniting worldwide outrage. Legal challenges are quickly filed against the ban, which denies entry to all refugees for 120 days, and travelers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days. Refugees from Syria are blocked indefinitely. -- February 3: A federal judge in Seattle suspends the ban nationwide after two US states ask for it to be overturned on grounds of religious discrimination and that it had caused "irreparable harm." Trump mocks the decision. -- February 9: A San Francisco federal appeals court refuses to reinstate Trump's controversial order, meaning the lower court's stay remains in place. The president denounces it as a "disgraceful decision." -- February 16: Trump says he will announce a "new and very comprehensive" executive order on immigration the following week in a bid to work around hurdles blocking the initial decree, rulings the government opts not to appeal before the Supreme Court. -- March 6: The president signs a scaled-back version of the travel ban, exempting Iraqis and permanent US residents. -- March 16: A federal judge in Hawaii freezes the second version of the ban, while a US judge in Maryland issues a separate block on the core provision of travel from the Muslim world, saying it amounts to discrimination. The Trump administration vows to challenge the rulings. -- May 25: An appeals court in Virginia upholds a lower court's decision to block the measure, dealing the president a fresh setback. -- June 2: The Trump administration asks the Supreme Court to take on the case. -- June 12: In a new defeat for Team Trump, an appeals court in San Francisco rules against the ban, saying the president exceeded his authority to make immigration-related national security judgments without justification. -- June 26: The Supreme Court agrees to examine the travel ban case in full in October, and in the meantime rules that it can be immediately enforced for travellers from the targeted countries "who lack any bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States." -- June 29: The partial travel ban takes effect following the Supreme Court ruling. -- July 14: A federal judge weakens the terms of the travel ban, ruling that grandparents and some other relatives of people in the US should be exempt from the ban. The Trump administration appeals to the Supreme Court, which backs the lower court's ruling. -- September 11: The Supreme Court stays a ruling by an appeals court that would have allowed thousands of refugees already in the pipeline to come to the United States despite the ban. -- September 24: Trump issues a new open-ended travel ban in which North Korea, Venezuela and Chad were added to the list of affected countries while Sudan was removed. The new ban includes non-Muslim-majority countries, but rights groups say it is still "anti-Muslim." -- October 16: A federal judge blocks the White House from implementing the latest version of the travel ban. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer (C), Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland (L), and Mexican Finance Minister Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal addressed the media at the end of the fourth round of talks on renegotiating NAFTA Canada, the United States and Mexico on Tuesday pushed into 2018 the current talks to overhaul the North American Free Trade Agreement, saying significant disagreements remained among the three sides. At a press conference in Washington, representatives of the three governments exchanged mutual accusations of intransigence -- leaving the success of the talks, and the future of the 23-year-old trade pact, in doubt. President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to scrap the landmark regional trade pact, describing it as a "disaster" that resulted in the export of US jobs. After four rounds of talks squeezed into a two month period, negotiators will now allow a month-long cooling-off period before returning to the bargaining table in Mexico on November 17. But the apparent deadlock in the talks underscored how a keystone of regional trade -- US trade with Mexico has tripled since 1993 to $1.2 trillion -- was now in jeopardy. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland accused the United States on Tuesday of "a winner-take-all" mindset that sought to undermine the agreement and she took aim at US proposals on rules of origin for duty-free trade in autos and for rules on access to markets for government procurement contracts. "We've also seen a series of unconventional proposals in critical areas of the negotiations that make our work much more challenging," Freeland told a joint press conference in Washington. Likewise, Mexican Finance Minister Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal suggested Mexico had stretched as far as it could in making concessions. "We must all understand that we have limits," he said. "We must ensure that the decisions that we make today do not come back to haunt us tomorrow." US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer accused Mexico and Canada of being unwilling to relinquish unfair advantages that he said broadened the $500 billion US global trade deficit. "Frankly, I am surprised and disappointed by the resistance to change from our negotiating partners," Lighthizer said. "As difficult has this been, we have seen no indication that our partners are willing to make any changes that will result in a rebalancing and a reduction in these huge trade deficits." "Countries are reluctant to give up unfair advantage," said Lighthizer. "But the president has been clear that if we are going to have an agreement going forward it must be fair to American businesses and workers that employ our people at home." - Headed for a breakdown? - The US currently has a trade deficit with Mexico of greater than $60 billion but according to Freeland, the Canadian foreign minister, the US currently enjoys a small surplus with Canada of about $8 billion out of more than $630 billion in annual trade. Yet at a separate news conference on Tuesday, she said the United States had proposed limiting its NAFTA partners' access to US government procurement contracts. "The United States has put forward a proposal that according to our calculations would give Canada and Mexico less access to the US government procurement market than Bahrain currently enjoys," she said. Begun at the behest of the Trump administration, the new negotiations have set nerves on edge among market participants, with several US proposals likely to face stiff opposition from US industry and lawmakers. US industry has reacted harshly to the trade talks. The US Chamber of Commerce has said the US bargaining position encourages other countries to strike trade bargains that bypass the United States and threatens to reduce US access to export crucial markets. Scott Miller, a trade expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a member of an advisory committee for the State Department, told AFP the talks appeared headed for collapse because certain US proposals were non-starters for US industry and for lawmakers. These included requiring US-made content in autos and auto parts that cross the Mexican and Canadian borders duty-free as well as weakening or undoing dispute settlement provisions. "Either trading partners reject them and the talks break down, or Congress rejects them and NAFTA 2.0 doesn't happen," Miller said. "This is an opportunity, if the Congress will only take it, to involve themselves in what's going and put these negotiations on a path that isn't headed for a breakdown." UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold, welcomed by Moise Kapenda Tshombe, leader of the Katanga province of Belgian Congo, now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in 1960 A new UN report on the mysterious 1961 plane crash that killed UN secretary-general Dag Hammarskjold in central Africa has concluded it appears "plausible" the aircraft came under attack. Sweden has called "an open wound" the unsolved questions over Hammarskjold's death, which came during the Cold War between Western nations and the Soviet bloc. The latest findings take into account newly-released information from the archives of Belgium, Britain, Canada, Germany and the United States. Hammarskjold, a Swedish diplomat who had been the UN's second secretary-general since 1953, was on his way to negotiate a ceasefire for mining-rich Katanga province in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo when he died along with 15 other people. His plane crashed on September 17 or 18 of 1961 near Ndola, in northern Rhodesia, now known as Zambia. Early inquiries said pilot error was to blame but an independent commission in 2013 noted the possibility of "hostile action" and called for further investigation. The new report by a former chief justice of Tanzania, Mohamed Chande Othman, was presented to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in August after reviewing the secret files. "Based on the totality of the information we have at hand, it appears plausible that external attack or threat may have been a cause of the crash," said an executive summary seen by AFP on Tuesday. The plane registered as SE-BDY may have been downed "by way of direct attack causing SE-BDY to crash, or by causing a momentary distraction of the pilots," it added. Othman said there was a "significant amount of evidence from eyewitnesses that they observed more than one aircraft in the air, that the other aircraft may have been a jet, that SE-BDY was on fire before it crashed, and/or that SE-BDY was fired upon or otherwise actively engaged by another aircraft." Such evidence "is not easily dismissed," he said. - Katangan rebels and their jets - The judge zeroed in on new information concerning aircraft operated by Katangan rebels, who opposed Congo's independence from Belgium, suggesting they had more air power than previously thought. Previous inquiries had dismissed the theory that Katangan forces may have shot down the plane because it was believed that they had only one jet -- a French-made Fouga -- at the time. New information provided by the United States and other sources showed that three Fouga aircraft were purchased from France and delivered to Katanga in 1961 "against objections of the US government." Other planes, including one from West Germany, were available for use in Katanga and several airfields were employed by Katangan forces in the region, according to the new information. Documents received from Britain and the United States appear to establish for the first time that both countries had agents in and around Congo at the time of the crash. This showed that further information on the cause of the crash may be found in the intelligence, security and defense archives of member-states, said the report. Othman said he was unable to verify a claim by a Belgian pilot, "Beukels," who told French diplomat Claude de Kemoularia in 1967 that he shot down or forced the plane to crash. Requests for information were also sent to South Africa, which is said to have documents on "Operation Celeste," a purported plot to kill Hammarskjold, but access to those has not yet been granted. Russia and France have also been asked to provide documents. Othman recommended that governments appoint a senior official to scour their archives, with particular attention paid to radio intercepts and related records. The report is expected to be presented to the UN General Assembly which in 2014 adopted a resolution that called for a full investigation to shed light once and for all on Hammarskjold's death. MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) - Maryan Abdullahi's father had been preparing to fly to Somalia's capital on Sunday to attend the happiest moment in his daughter's life: her graduation day. Instead, he will bury her. On Saturday, the 22-year-old Abdullahi was making final preparations for graduation after years of medical studies when a massive truck bomb detonated in the middle of a Mogadishu street where she was travelling in a car with friends. Somali children assist other civilians and security forces in their rescue efforts by carrying away unidentified charred human remains in a cardboard box, to clear the scene of Saturday's blast, in Mogadishu, Somalia, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017. The death toll from the huge truck bomb blast in Somalia's capital rose to over 50 Sunday, with more than 60 others injured, as hospitals struggled to cope with the high number of casualties, security and medical sources said. (AP Photo/Farah Abdi Warsameh) They were killed in what has been called the single deadliest attack in Somalia's history. At least 231 people are dead, a Somali senator said Sunday, citing doctors at hospitals he had visited, and 275 others were injured. "A sad day. Her family was so proud of her and were counting the hours before her graduation," said Amino Ahmed, Abdullahi's classmate, with tears in her reddened eyes. "The life of a rising star was sadly cut short." As stories of the victims emerged, bewildered family members were still picking their way through the rubble Sunday. Ambulance sirens wailed, and overwhelmed hospitals pleaded for blood donations. Mogadishu, a city long accustomed to deadly bombings by the Somalia-based al-Shabab Islamic extremist group, was stunned by the force of Saturday's blast. As the huge plume of smoke began to rise, residents said the explosion was the most powerful they'd heard in years. "With a heavy heart I would say this is the worst attack I have ever witnessed," said Masoud Mohamed, who lost family members in the blast. Parts of the busy Hodan district were flattened, with concrete buildings mangled. Cars burned. Bodies were rushed away by shaken survivors, with bloodied sandals left behind. Children carried away charred remains in cardboard boxes. Three brothers working at a nearby shopping center were among the dead, witnesses said. The explosion also killed a couple who were returning from a hospital after having their first child, said Dahir Amin Jesow, a Somali lawmaker. "It's a dark day for us," he said. Dozens of weeping women stood outside hospitals, while Mogadishu's mayor sent a desperate plea to residents to donate blood for the many wounded. ___ Associated Press video journalist Mohamed Sheikh Nor in Mogadishu contributed to this report. Somali security forces and others gather and search for bodies near destroyed buildings at the scene of Saturday's blast, in Mogadishu, Somalia Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017. The death toll from the huge truck bomb blast in Somalia's capital rose to over 50 Sunday, with more than 60 others injured, as hospitals struggled to cope with the high number of casualties, security and medical sources said. (AP Photo/Farah Abdi Warsameh) Somalis help a civilian wounded in Saturday's blast, at Medina hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017. The death toll from the huge truck bomb blast in Somalia's capital rose to over 50 Sunday, with more than 60 others injured, as hospitals struggled to cope with the high number of casualties, security and medical sources said. (AP Photo/Farah Abdi Warsameh) Somalis help a civilian wounded in Saturday's blast, at Medina hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017. The death toll from the huge truck bomb blast in Somalia's capital rose to over 50 Sunday, with more than 60 others injured, as hospitals struggled to cope with the high number of casualties, security and medical sources said. (AP Photo/Farah Abdi Warsameh) KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - A Taliban spokesman has rejected as "false and propaganda" the allegations of rescued Canadian hostage Joshua Boyle that his child was murdered and his wife raped during his captivity in Afghanistan. Zabihuallah Mujahid in a statement Sunday said the accusations against the Taliban are "baseless and false." "No one has either intentionally murdered the child of this couple and neither has anyone violated or defiled them," said the statement. Mujahid said that during his captivity, Boyle was never separated from his wife, who had a miscarriage. He added that Boyle was now in the hands of "the enemy" and can be pressured into saying anything. Boyle and his wife, Caitlan Coleman, and their three children were rescued Wednesday, five years after being abducted while on a backpacking trip in Afghanistan. JERUSALEM (AP) - Israel's prime minister says he intends to establish a parliamentary committee to investigate the funding Israeli NGOs receive from foreign governments. Benjamin Netanyahu told a gathering of Christian journalists in Jerusalem that the committee will probe "organizations that operate against" Israeli soldiers. Such committees mostly serve as a way to shed light on a pressing public issue and tend not to have much bite. Israel already has a law, passed last year, which increases the regulation of many Israeli human rights organizations who receive foreign funding. But Netanyahu's announcement Sunday highlights the hostility against those groups from Israeli hard-liners. It comes after Israel convicted an Israeli soldier this year for shooting to death a wounded Palestinian attacker. That incident was caught on video by a human rights group. LONDON (AP) - For months, the outlook for the eurozone economy has brightened thanks to a series of electoral defeats for populist parties in key states like France. Now, following votes in Germany and Austria and the uncertainty over the Spanish region of Catalonia, concerns are growing again about the potential impact of euroskeptic politics. The euro has edged lower in recent weeks despite data showing that the eurozone economy is enjoying one of its strongest periods of growth since the global financial crisis exploded a decade ago. On Monday, it was down 0.3 percent at $1.1785, having been above $1.20 at the end of August for the first time in two years. One of the reasons relates to the electoral success of populist forces, first in Germany in late-September when the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany received almost 13 percent of the vote and won representation into the country's parliament for the first time. Though the center-right Christian Democrats came out on top, the authority of Chancellor Angela Merkel was somewhat undermined by AfD's relative success and she has still to forge a new coalition. Hans-Christian Strache, leader of the strongly eurosceptic Austrian Freedom Party, waves to his supporters in Vienna, Austria, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, after the closing of the polling stations for the Austrian national elections. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak) The populist tide was further evidenced in Sunday's Austrian election, which saw the right-wing Freedom Party come second with around 27 percent of the vote - enough to possibly become part of a government led by the People's Party and its 31-year-old leader, Sebastian Kurz. The impact of a coalition involving a party that has sought to downplay the country's Nazi past could hinder efforts to further integrate the economies of the 19 countries that use the euro, as advocated for by new French President Emmanuel Macron. "Even though Austria is highly integrated and depends on the eurozone's structure and openness, a new Austrian government will make the eurozone's life harder, trying to push through self-interests," ING economist Inga Fechner said. Also of potential concern to the unity of the eurozone is the uncertainty surrounding Catalonia following its disputed independence referendum earlier this month. On Monday, there was still a lack of clarity as to whether the region's leader, Carles Puigdemont, has declared independence following the vote that Madrid has deemed illegal. The Spanish government of Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has repeatedly said it's not willing to negotiate with Puigdemont if independence is on the table, or accept any form of international mediation. The government has threatened to activate Article 155 of Spain's Constitution, which could see Madrid take temporary control of some parts of Catalonia's self-government. All these signs of populism come at a time when the European economy is enjoying one of its most sustained upswings for a decade. A run of economic indicators have shown that the recovery, especially among those countries that use the euro currency, has been gaining momentum through 2017. The recovery, which has also seen unemployment come off highs, has prompted speculation that the European Central Bank will start to ease back on some of its emergency stimulus measures in the coming months. Many economists ascribe the improving economic backdrop to the defeat of populist politicians earlier this year, notably in France where National Front leader Marine Le Pen lost overwhelmingly in the presidential runoff against Macron. Her defeat come a few weeks after Geert Wilders' anti-Islam Freedom Party fared worse than anticipated in Dutch elections. At the start of this year, the rise of populism was considered by many economists as the gravest cloud hanging over Europe's economic future, especially as worries over Greece had abated. The Brexit vote in Britain in the summer of 2016 had shown how vulnerable the region could be to populist movements. The great fear for those overseeing the euro currency is that a party may come into government seeking to get out of the single currency and revert to the country's original currency. What's occurred in the past few weeks is evidence that those populist forces are not done yet. Simon Derrick, chief currency strategist at BNY Mellon, said "it would make sense for the euro to weaken if concerns about populism in the eurozone re-emerged." The next potential worry is Italy, where elections have to be held by May 2018. The country has for years grown more slowly than other developed economies and there are concerns that a party seeking to blame the country's problems on the euro could make headway in the elections, potentially triggering more volatility for a currency that's spent years dodging crises. In August, former premier Silvio Berlusconi floated the idea of a parallel currency being introduced in Italy. WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump will ask U.S. allies to pressure North Korea on its nuclear program in an upcoming trip to the Asia-Pacific region. He'll also meet with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Trump has praised Duterte for his deadly war on drugs that has left thousands dead, according to a leaked transcript of an April phone call. The White House says Trump will travel in November to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines from Nov. 3 to Nov. 14. Trump will also stop in Hawaii. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump walk on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Friday, Oct. 13, 2017, upon arrival from a visit to the United States Secret Service James J. Rowley Training Center in Beltsville, Md. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) In South Korea, Trump will meet with President Moon Jae-in (jah-yihn) and "call on the international community to join together in maximizing pressure on North Korea." In Japan, Trump will meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (shin-zoh AH'-bay) and participate in a meeting with families of "Japanese citizens abducted by the North Korean regime." Trump will also meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Vietnam President Tran Dai Quang and attend two trade summits. The White House says the travel will "underscore his commitment to longstanding United States alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region." Weeks after her disappearance, the ex-husband of a missing San Diego woman with Bismarck ties has been arrested in connection to her murder. Phoenix (Ariz.) Police and an FBI task force arrested 39-year-old Dalen Ware on Friday at his Laveen, Ariz., home, Ontario (Calif.) Police reported. He will be transported to the San Bernardino County West Valley Detention Center and charged with Julia Jacobson's murder. Jacobson, 37, and her Wheaton terrier, Boogie, have been missing since Sept. 2. Their remains have not been found. Based on a forensic analysis of her car discovered abandoned near her home in Normal Heights, San Diego, detectives have reason to believe she has been murdered, police reported. Ontario Police Det. Melissa Ramirez declined to say what evidence was found in Jacobson's car, but said there was "overwhelming evidence that is indicative of the fact that she didn't choose to be missing." Investigators are willing to go "anywhere and everywhere" in the search for Jacobson and her dog, said Ramirez, adding that police are trying to recreate and trace Ware's actions. They have also posted his photo in hopes of triggering anyone's memory of seeing him and Jacobson together. "It's very much ongoing," Ramirez said. Jacobson's Bismarck family is mourning her loss. "The loss of Julia is beyond words," her family said in a statement. "There will be no more birthday parties, backyard gatherings, holiday celebrations or other family activities to share. The laughter, hugs, guidance and our sense of security are forever gone, and our familys hearts will be forever broken." Jacobson was a U.S. Army veteran who deployed twice to Iraq. At the time of her disappearance, she worked as a corporate real estate broker for 7-Eleven. Funeral arrangements are pending for services in Bismarck and San Diego. Anyone with information related to Jacobson's disappearance may call Ontario Police at 909-986-6711. BALTIMORE (AP) - A Baltimore police officer has fatally shot an armed robbery suspect at a convenience store. The Baltimore Sun reports that the shooting happened just before 3 a.m. Monday at a 7-Eleven store in northeast Baltimore. Police said an officer was checking in on the store when he came upon a robbery in progress. WBAL New Radio reports that a police spokeswoman says the officer shot the suspect in the store's parking lot. She said the suspect had a sawed-off shotgun. He later died at a hospital. Police said the officer is a 17-year veteran of the police department. The spokeswoman said the officer was wearing a body camera. That video will be reviewed. The officer, store employees and witnesses were not injured. ___ Information from: WBAL-TV, http://www.wbaltv.com ATLANTA (AP) - Georgia's highest court ruled Monday the prosecution of a white former Atlanta-area police officer who fatally shot an unarmed, naked, mentally ill black veteran may go forward. The Georgia Supreme Court rejected arguments by Robert Olsen's attorneys that the charges against him should be dismissed because the principle of grand jury secrecy had been violated by the presence of extra, unnecessary people during the grand jury proceedings. Olsen, a DeKalb County police officer at the time, shot Anthony Hill on March 9, 2015, while responding to a call about a naked man behaving erratically outside a suburban Atlanta apartment complex. A grand jury indicted Olsen in January 2016 on charges of felony murder, aggravated assault, violation of oath of office and making a false statement. Olsen's attorneys in June 2016 filed a motion to dismiss the case, saying "unauthorized" people had been present in the grand jury room. During a hearing on the motion in September 2016, attorney Don Samuel said those included multiple people from the district attorney's office, an expert witness and a court reporter who didn't transcribe anything but a statement by the officer. The presence of all those people, especially people from the district attorney's office, could have discouraged grand jurors from asking questions, Samuel said, though he made it clear that he did not believe anyone was purposely intimidating grand jurors. DeKalb County Superior Court Judge J.P. Boulee ruled in October 2016 there aren't grounds under Georgia law to dismiss the indictment, but he allowed Olsen to appeal that decision to the high court. "No unlawful conduct is shown in this case, and no prejudice is demonstrated by the manner in which the prosecutor conducted the evidentiary stage of the grand jury proceedings," Georgia Supreme Court Justice Robert Benham wrote in the unanimous opinion Monday. Benham wrote that unlike in federal grand jury proceedings where clear rules specify who may be present while evidence is presented, there are no such limitations under Georgia law or procedural rules. While the preservation of grand jury secrecy is well-recognized in Georgia, Benham wrote, the court didn't believe the need for grand jury secrecy was compromised in this case. But Benham was careful to note that the opinion does not mean prosecutors may allow spectators - including journalists or school classes - to watch grand jury proceedings. Prosecutors should "take care to conduct grand jury proceedings in a manner that does not discourage witnesses from testifying fully and frankly, that protects against the risk that the accused might flee to avoid prosecution, and that ensures persons who are ultimately not indicted are not the subject of public ridicule," the opinion said. WASHINGTON (AP) - The Supreme Court is taking up an appeal by 11 states that argue American Express violated antitrust laws by barring merchants from asking customers to use other credit cards that charge lower fees. The justices said Monday they would review a ruling by the federal appeals court in New York that sided with American Express. The case stems from a lawsuit filed by states and the Obama administration in 2010 against American Express, Mastercard and Visa. The lawsuit said that letting merchants steer customers to cards with lower fees for merchants or to other preferred cards would benefit consumers and increase incentives for networks to reduce card fees. Visa and MasterCard entered into consent judgments in 2011 and stopped their anti-steering rules for merchants while American Express proceeded to trial. A trial judge ruled against American Express in 2015, but the appeals court reversed that ruling last year. The Trump administration said it agreed with the states, but still urged the Supreme Court to reject the case. The administration said the justices should let the issue percolate in the lower courts. The 11 states that joined the appeal are Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, Ohio, Rhode Island, Utah and Vermont. Other states that were part of the original lawsuit are Arizona, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Tennessee and Texas. The court will hear argument in Ohio v. American Express, 16-1454, during the winter. SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (AP) - Authorities say a Southern California man has been rescued after falling into a sinkhole. The San Bernardino Sun reports the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department says neighbors, sheriff's deputies and firefighters rescued 75-year-old Dennis Love on Sunday after the ground became unstable around the faulty septic system that authorities say caused the sinkhole. The sheriff's department says in a statement said that dirt, rocks and debris fell onto Love in sinkhole in the small town of Apple Valley. At one point, an emergency medical technician fell into the hole and was pulled to safety by a sheriff's deputy. Authorities say Love called for help when he fell into the hole. Two neighbors were unable to pull him out but did manage to help him keep his head above water. ___ Information from: The Sun, http://www.sbsun.com ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Turkey's state-run news agency says a U.S. delegation is in Ankara for talks aimed at resolving a spat that resulted in the two countries suspending the issuance of travel visas to the other's citizens. Anadolu Agency said a delegation led by U.S. State Department senior official Jonathan Cohen arrived in the Turkish capital Monday. Officials said the sides would also discuss developments in Syria and Iraq. Strained ties between the two NATO allies deepened last week after Turkish authorities detained a Turkish employee of the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul on charges of espionage and alleged ties to U.S.-based cleric whom Turkey blames for last year's failed coup. The U.S. halted most visa services for Turkish citizens at U.S. missions. Turkey retaliated by halting visa services in the U.S. for Americans. "The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine Who Outwitted America's Enemies" (Dey Street Books), by Jason Fagone Her story is so surprising it's not only hard to understand why most Americans have never heard of her, but it's somewhat of a challenge to believe it at all. In "The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine Who Outwitted America's Enemies," journalist Jason Fagone recreates a world and a cast of characters so utterly fascinating they will inhabit the psyches of its readers long after the book has been read. Elizebeth Smith, a Quaker girl from a small town in Indiana, first fought against societal norms by earning a college degree against her father's will. When she was 23, she railed against a presumed lifetime of teaching, followed by marriage and children and headed to Chicago. Through happenstance, she met George Fabyan, a wealthy and eccentric businessman who owned a compound named Riverbank. There, scientists, inventors and intellectuals holed up to study and learn, experiment and discover - all funded by Fabyan's inherited fortune. Fabyan hired Smith as his assistant. "Will you come to Riverbank and spend the night with me," he asked upon first meeting her. Stunned and confused, yet intrigued, Smith agreed. It was 1916. And so it begins. During her four years at Riverbank, Smith met and married William Friedman. Initially, they were assigned to seeking encoded messages that Francis Bacon supposedly embedded in the works of William Shakespeare. Their work quickly expanded when they learned they had unprecedented and unmatched codebreaking skills. Fagone chronicles the couple's lives and accomplishments against the backdrop of the birth and growth of the modern intelligence community. His research is exhaustive and his storytelling, spellbinding. Much like Margot Lee Shetterly's "Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race" or "The Girls of Atomic City: The Untold Story of the Women Who Helped Win World War II" by Denise Kiernan, Fagone sheds light on a too-long-overlooked story of a remarkable woman and her accomplishments. ___ Online: https://www.jasonfagone.com/ WASHINGTON (AP) - The Supreme Court is intervening in a digital-age privacy dispute between the Trump administration and Microsoft over emails stored abroad. The justices say Monday they will hear the administration's appeal of a lower court ruling in favor of Microsoft. The court held the emails sought in a drug trafficking investigation were beyond the reach of a search warrant because they were kept on a Microsoft server in Ireland. The case is among several legal clashes that Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft and other technology companies have had with the government over questions of digital privacy and authorities' need for information to combat crime and extremism. Privacy law experts say the companies have been more willing to push back against the government since the leak of classified information detailing America's surveillance programs. The case also highlights the difficulty that judges face in trying to square decades-old laws with new technological developments. In 2013, federal investigators obtained a warrant under a 1986 law for emails from an account they believe was being used in illegal drug transactions as well as identifying information about the user of the email account. Microsoft turned over the information, but went to court to defend its decision not to hand over the emails from Ireland. The federal appeals court in New York agreed with the company. The administration said in its Supreme Court appeal said the decision is damaging "hundreds if not thousands of investigations of crimes - ranging from terrorism, to child pornography, to fraud." Wherever the emails reside, Microsoft can retrieve them "domestically with the click of a computer mouse," Justice Department lawyer Jeffrey Wall told the court. Microsoft had urged the court to stay out of the case and instead allow Congress to make needed changes to bring the 1986 Stored Communications Act up to date. Bipartisan bills have been introduced in both the Senate and House of Representatives. Microsoft said the high court's intervention would "short-circuit" the congressional effort. "The current laws were written for the era of the floppy disk, not the world of the cloud. We believe that rather than arguing over an old law in court, it is time for Congress to act by passing new legislation," Microsoft president and chief legal officer Brad Smith wrote on the company's blog after the court acted. Privacy scholars also have worried that the court may have trouble resolving difficult issues in a nuanced way. Data companies have built servers around the world to keep up with customers' demands for speed and access. Among the issues the court may confront is whether the same rules apply to the emails of an American citizen and a foreigner. Another is whether it matters where the person is living. The Stored Communications Act became law long before the advent of cloud computing. Judge Gerard Lynch, on the New York panel that sided with Microsoft, called for "congressional action to revise a badly outdated statute." The case, U.S. v. Microsoft, 17-2, will be argued early next year. LONDON (AP) - The latest on how the weakened remnants of Hurricane Ophelia are affecting Ireland and the U.K. (all times local): 12:40 a.m. Several flights to British airports have been diverted because of unusual odors on board thought to be associated with the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia. The sky over the London Eye is bathed in a dull orange sky in London, Monday, Oct. 16, 2017. The unusual hue of the sky was thought to be due to the remnants of the Hurricane Orphelia dragging in tropical air and dust from the Sahara. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein) EasyJet says four of its Monday flights were affected by the unusual "atmospheric conditions," which resulted from the storm pulling in warm tropical air and dust from the Sahara. Officials say two of the planes were diverted and two requested expedited landings as a precaution. British Airways says it had some similar reports of smells on board its planes but had operated its flights normally. Officials at Liverpool John Lennon Airport say that the conditions are causing some flights to be redirected. ___ 5:20 p.m. Ireland's government says schools and colleges will remain closed for a second day as a third death was attributed to the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia. The storm, now categorized as a post-tropical cyclone, caused widespread at least two deaths, damage, disruption after it slammed into the republic on Monday. Irish Education Minister Richard Bruton announced on Twitter that officials "decided that all schools will remain closed tomorrow." The storm's path has it moving into parts of the UK. Northern Ireland's Education Authority has also said schools will remain closed on Tuesday. Workers sealed off the Peace Bridge in the city of Londonderry with tape and sandbags, closing it as a precaution. ___ 4:30 p.m. Planes have been grounded at several locations in the British Isles as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia swept into the region from the Atlantic Ocean. Some 130 flights were cancelled at Dublin Airport, while flights were also grounded at Manchester Airport. B Both Ryanair and Easy Jet cancelled flights at Belfast International Airport and planned to suspend more. Authorities are warning anyone with travel plans to contact their airline. Ireland's weather service, Met Eireann, issued a status red weather warning for all of the Irish Republic. It described the storm as the most powerful on record to have ever been this far east in the Atlantic. ___ 4:20 p.m. A nonprofit group that provides lifesaving services around the British Isles is warning people to stay away from seas and beaches as Post-Tropical Cyclone Ophelia passes over the British Isles. Royal National Lifeboat Institution lifesaving manager, Matt Crofts, says coastal waters are "particularly dangerous and unpredictable, with large waves and swells being a major risk." Crofts says that as tempting as it is to watch crashing surf, the risk of massive waves that "can easily knock you off your feet" is not worth it. He says: "The sea is far more powerful than you think and your chances of survival are slim if you are dragged into the swell." ___ 4:10 p.m. Ireland's prime minister is urging people to stay indoors as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia batter the Irish Republic. Prime Minister Leo Varadkar warned Monday: "It is a very dangerous storm. The last time there was a storm this severe 11 lives were lost." Varadkar asked people to stay inside until the storm passes and to check in with neighbors and friends. The military was put on standby as schools closed, court hearings were postponed and hospital outpatient appointments cancelled. ___ 3:55 p.m. The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia have killed at least two people after slamming into the British Isles. Both of the deaths were in Ireland, where tens of thousands of homes are without power and the military was put on standby Monday. While meteorologists have downgraded Ophelia to a post-tropical cyclone, Ireland's National Emergency Coordination Group on Severe Weather called the storm "unprecedented with serious life- threatening conditions." Prime Minister Leo Varadkar urged people to "stay indoors until the storm passes." Wind warnings also are in place in Northern Ireland, parts of Wales as well as western parts of England. ___ 3:10 p.m. The weakened remnants of Hurricane Ophelia - now known as Post-Tropical Cyclone Ophelia - have caused at least one death in Ireland. Authorities said the first known victim was a woman who was driving near the Irish village of Aglish on Monday when a tree fell on her car. Gusts of up to 80 mph were reported 30 years to the day after a weather event dubbed the "Great Storm of 1987" battered southern England and killed 18 people. Authorities in Ireland had ordered schools, courts and government buildings to remain closed before the storm's arrival. Bridges were shut down as a precaution in both Ireland and Britain. Some flights were canceled. Aviation officials heading to airports. ___ 10:55 a.m. Authorities in Ireland have closed schools, courts and government buildings amid concerns about potential damage from the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. The weather service issued a "status red" warning, saying "violent and destructive" wind is forecast nationwide, and "heavy rain and storm surges along some coasts will lead to flooding." Britain's Met Office also warned of very windy weather in parts of Northern Ireland, Scotland and northern England. The agency is warning of potential power cuts, and disruption to transport and mobile phone signals. A woman stands as waves crash against the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall southwestern England, as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit parts of Britain and Ireland. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Ben Birchall/PA via AP) Waves break on Longships lighthouse off the coast of Lands End, southwestern England, as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit parts of Britain and Ireland. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Liam McBurney/PA via AP) A man take selfie in the high wind at Lahinch on the west coast of Ireland Monday Oct. 16, 2017, as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit Ireland and parts of Britain. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Niall Carson/PA via AP) A woman stands as waves crash against the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall southwestern England, as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit parts of Britain and Ireland. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Ben Birchall/PA via AP) Waves break on the sea wall at Penzanze, southwestern England, as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit parts of Britain and Ireland. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Ben Birchall/PA via AP) A couple watch waves break on the sea wall at Penzanze, southwestern England as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit parts of Britain and Ireland. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Ben Birchall/PA via AP) An overhead road sign on the M2 motorway near Belfast, Northern Ireland warns drivers of, "Strong Winds Forecast Today", as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit Ireland and parts of Britain. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Liam McBurney/PA via AP) A woman stands as waves crash against the sea wall at Penzanze, Cornwall southwestern England, as the remnants of Hurricane Ophelia begins to hit parts of Britain and Ireland. Ireland's meteorological service is predicting wind gusts of 120 kph to 150 kph (75 mph to 93 mph), sparking fears of travel chaos. Some flights have been cancelled, and aviation officials are warning travelers to check the latest information before going to the airport Monday. (Ben Birchall/PA via AP) MOSCOW (AP) - A gay Russian man accused authorities in Chechnya on Monday of jailing and beating him as part of a broad crackdown on LGBT people. Maxim Lapunov said during a news conference Monday that unidentified people detained him on a street in the Russian region's provincial capital in March and drove him to a detention facility. Guards beat him with sticks during the nearly two weeks he was kept in custody, and forced Lapunov and his partner, who also was detained and beaten, to fight each other, Lapunov said. Maxim Lapunov, a Russian man who is accusing authorities in Chechnya of brutally beating him as part of a broad crackdown on gay people in the Russian Region, speaks during a press conference in Moscow, Russia, Monday, Oct. 16, 2017. Lapunov said unidentified people detained him on the street in Chechnya's provincial capital, Grozny, and drove him to a detention facility. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin) "Day after day, they were telling me how precisely they want to kill me," he said. Lapunov is the first person to file a complaint with Russian authorities over a wave of arrests of gay people earlier this year that human rights defenders and media outlets say have taken place under Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov. Lapunov said other people in the same detention facility were tortured and beaten for being gay. He was let go after he signed a statement acknowledging he was gay and was told he would be killed if he talked about his time in detention, he said. "When I would fall, they would give me a break and then force me to stand up and continue for several more rounds," he said of the beatings he received. "When I was leaving Chechnya I could barely walk," he said. Human rights group say more than 100 gay men were arrested and subjected to beatings and torture, and some of them were killed. "I want justice, I hope it will come," Lapunov said. "I don't want to feel unprotected in my own country, so that anyone from Chechnya could come after me and kill me at any moment." Igor Kalyapin, the head of the Committee against Torture, a Russian NGO that provided legal assistance to Lapunov, said the Russian investigative agency has dragged its feet on launching a probe based on his testimony even though Russia's human rights commissioner followed the case. "I keep having nightmares about what I went through there," Lapunov said. "Those cries, moans and prays for mercy have left an imprint." PHOENIX (AP) - Authorities in Mexico have arrested the final of seven defendants accused in the killing of a U.S. Border Patrol agent whose death exposed a bungled federal gun operation, the U.S. Attorney's Office said. Jesus Rosario Favela-Astorga was arrested Saturday without incident and faces first-degree murder and other charges in the December 2010 killing of 40-year-old Brian Terry in Arizona. The 37-year-old is the last of the defendants in the case, including five men who have either pleaded guilty or been found guilty in federal court in Tucson. Another suspect, Heraclio Osorio-Arellanes, was arrested in Mexico in April, but a judge has yet to approve his extradition to the U.S. Favela-Astorga was a member of a crew that planned on robbing marijuana smugglers when it encountered Terry and other agents who were on a stakeout in the southern Arizona desert, authorities said. The killing unveiled the Fast and Furious operation, in which federal agents allowed criminals to buy guns with the intention of tracking them to criminal organizations. But the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lost most of the guns, including two that were found at scene of Terry's death. The operation set off political backlash against the Obama administration and led the agent's family to sue. Terry was in an elite Border Patrol unit staking out the southern Arizona desert for "rip-off" crew members who rob drug smugglers. The four-man team encountered a group and identified themselves as police in trying to arrest them. But authorities say the men refused to stop, prompting an agent to fire non-lethal bean bags at them. They responded by firing from AK-47-type assault rifles. Terry was struck in the back and died shortly afterward. Among those already serving time are Manual Osorio-Arellanes, who pleaded guilty to murder and was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2014, and Jesus Leonel Sanchez-Meza and Ivan Soto-Barraza, who were found guilty of murder and other charges in 2015. A man who was not present during the shooting but is charged with assembling the rip-off crew, Rosario Rafael Burboa-Alvarez, also pleaded guilty to murder. Rito Osorio-Arellanes, who was not at the shooting, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery. Nine defendants have been indicted in North Dakota in connection to an international fentanyl trafficking operation, according to an announcement from U.S. attorneys on Tuesday. Chief among them is 38-year-old Jian Zhang, of China, charged last month with five federal offenses, including drug conspiracy charges and money laundering. He faces up to life in prison and more than $12 million in fines, if convicted. He allegedly ran a fentanyl manufacturing organization with at least four Chinese labs, advertising and selling fentanyl online. Zhang and 40-year-old Xiaobing Yan, who was indicted in Mississippi federal court Tuesday, are considered significant global drug-trafficking threats, the Department of Justice reported. Zhang's charges relate to four people's deaths in New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota and Oregon in 2014 and 2015, and serious bodily injuries to five others, the DOJ said. Yan reportedly operated chemical plants and websites to distribute fentanyl. Zhang's eight North Dakota co-defendants are each charged with drug trafficking conspiracy. They are Jason Joey Berry, 34; Xuan Cahn Nguyen, 38; Marie Um, 37; Vannek Um, 39; and Linda Van, 25, all of Quebec; Anthony Santos Gomes, 33; Elizabeth Ton, 26, both of Florida; and Darius Ghahary, 48, of New Jersey. Nine other North Dakota co-defendants have been sentenced or await trial. Three Oregon co-defendants also have been sentenced or await sentencing. Tuesday's announcement was a result of Operation Denial, a task force investigation into international trafficking of fentanyl and other drugs, started almost three years ago in North Dakota after an 18-year-old's overdose death in Grand Forks. Milwaukee Brewers minor leaguer Julio Mendez has made what the team calls a "remarkable recovery" from a serious injury after being hit in the chest by a pitch. Mendez was on life support for more than three weeks after getting hit in a Rookie League game on Aug. 26 in Tempe, Arizona. General manager David Stearns said Monday that Mendez has taken significant steps over the last few weeks to the point where he is performing many daily activities with little assistance. Stearns says Mendez still has a long way to go with rehab, though his progress has been very encouraging. Mendez is recovering in a hospital in his home country of Venezuela. He was moved about three weeks ago at his family's request. ___ More AP baseball: apnews.com/tag/MLBbaseball MEXICO CITY (AP) - Mexican authorities are searching for an industrial measuring device containing radioactive material that was stolen from a pickup in the western Pacific coast state of Nayarit. The equipment contains IR 192, and is of a kind often used in construction and manufacturing. The Interior Department said the device was stolen from the truck in the Nayarit state capital. Authorities said Monday that the material poses serious health risks if tampered with. Citizens are warned not to touch or go near the equipment, and a security perimeter of 15 feet (5 meters) is recommended. There have been several such thefts in Mexico in recent years, but the radioactive materials have been recovered. WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley says that President Donald Trump is strengthening his ability to resolve the North Korea nuclear crisis by threatening to abandon the nuclear deal with Iran. Haley is defending Trump's decision not to certify Iran's compliance with the deal. Trump's critics argue he's undermining U.S. credibility and options for diplomacy because North Korea will determine the U.S. doesn't honor its commitments. But Haley says that argument is "just wrong." She says it's the opposite. Haley says failing to fix the 2015 deal with Iran would send the message that the United States "can be bought by a bad deal" that doesn't actually eliminate the nuclear threat. Haley is speaking to an annual dinner of the conservative Heritage Foundation. BEIJING (AP) - Having bested his rivals, Chinese President Xi Jinping is primed to consolidate his already considerable power as the ruling Communist Party begins its twice-a-decade national congress on Wednesday. From meetings largely cloaked in secrecy, powerful players will emerge publicly in new roles, and Xi will address the nation to lay out his political and economic vision for the world's second-largest economy over the next five years. Villages will broadcast news of the congress over loudspeakers, a security crackdown has been extended and monitoring of dissidents strengthened. Xi, who is expected to get a second five-year term as party leader at the gathering, will kick off events with an address indicating whether his personal political theory will be entered into the party constitution alongside those of predecessors such as Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. The honor was bestowed much later in office for most other leaders. A visitor poses near a photo of Chinese President Xi Jinping at an exhibition highlighting China's achievements under five years of Xi's leadership at the Beijing Exhibition Hall in Beijing, China, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. Having bested his rivals, Chinese President Xi Jinping is primed to consolidate his already considerable power as the ruling Communist Party begins its twice-a-decade national congress on Wednesday.(AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) Such a proclamation, at this time, would broadcast that Xi, already China's most powerful leader in decades, will continue to dominate Chinese politics for the next five years - and possibly more - with virtually no domestic opposition. Party congress spokesman Tuo Zhen on Tuesday said the party would continue structural reforms but ruled out any adoption of a multiparty democratic system. "Political structural reform is not something that can be achieved overnight. China will not blindly copy or replicate the models of other countries," Tuo told reporters at a news conference to discuss the congress' agenda. Xi, in his speech, is also expected to recommit the party to achieving the goals of a "moderately well-off society" by 2021 - the 100th anniversary of the party's founding - and even greater national power and prosperity by 2049 - the centenary of the founding of the Communist state. Those achievements will depend on continued economic growth and the lifting of millions out of poverty, alongside the continued rapid expansion of Chinese military and political power, including its growing ability to dominate the Asia-Pacific region. The meeting's immediate results, however, will be personnel appointments, rumors about which have swirled for months. China is run by the party's Politburo Standing Committee, currently a seven-member body led by Xi, with Premier Li Keqiang his No. 2. Its size and composition have varied greatly over the years, although membership is generally restricted to the heads of state and party, the premier, the leader of the rubber-stamp parliament and officials in charge of propaganda, party discipline and other key sectors. While Xi and Li are expected to stay, the fates of others are determined by loosely defined precedents governing retirement age. Four are expected to depart, while the status of party discipline boss and close Xi ally Wang Qishan appears to be in flux. If Xi changes the rules or ignores precedents, such as that of the informal retirement age, he could risk a backlash inside the party from those who see respecting such norms as essential for a peaceful transfer of power. Observers will also be looking for a potential successor to Xi after his traditional second five-year term as party leader. While the nation's presidency is limited to two five-year terms, the office of party general secretary is bound by no such restrictions. Xi, 64, could step aside for a younger leader while maintaining ultimate control from behind the scenes. Whatever the outcome, most analysts say Xi has largely completed the task of sidelining his competitors in other cliques, including those surrounding his immediate predecessor, Hu Jintao, and former leader Jiang Zemin. "Xi has been extremely successful in purging political rivals," said Feng Chongyi, an expert on Chinese politics at Sydney's University of Technology. "There will be only one faction left after the 19th congress." The 2,287 carefully hand-picked delegates to the congress are drawn from 40 constituencies, including the 31 provincial-level administrative districts, the government, the military, state industries and grass-roots organizations representing most of the party's 89 million members. In a secret process, they will select a roughly 200-member Central Committee, along with more than 150 alternates, from a pool of around 400 candidates. The committee will then pick a 25-member Politburo and the elite Politburo Standing Committee, led by the general secretary. The makeup of the top body will only be known at the close of the weeklong meeting when its members reveal themselves on stage in front of journalists, according to past practice. This year's congress is expected to usher in many new faces. Cheng Li, who studies Chinese politics at the Brookings Institution think tank in Washington, puts the turnover rate in the Central Committee at 70 percent, the highest since the peak of Mao's chaotic Cultural Revolution in 1969. However, women continue to be underrepresented in the top bodies, pointing to the abiding highly masculine tone of Chinese politics. No woman has ever served on the Politburo Standing Committee and only two currently are on the Politburo. Just 10 are on the Central Committee, comprising 4.9 percent of members. Extraordinary security measures are being imposed for the congress, and not just near the gathering. Already heavily restricted, access to foreign websites, social media platforms and messaging programs such as WhatsApp has been tightened and dissidents placed under increased scrutiny. In Beijing, thousands of deputized citizens patrol the streets, and knife, fireworks and chemical sales have been suspended. In the restive far-northwestern region of Xinjiang, police have demanded that owners of any knives longer than 10 centimeters (4 inches) have them embossed with a QR code for identification. And while many Chinese may seem blase, news about the congress is impossible to avoid. Villages are revving up decades-old public address systems to broadcast developments. They aim to cut through "noise from the internet that left some beneficial policies misunderstood," the official Xinhua News Agency reported. The speaker systems, Xinhua says, can "bring the CPC and Chinese people together better." ___ This story has been corrected to fix spelling of spokesman's name to Tuo Zhen instead of Guo Zheng. FILE - In this Sept. 30, 2017 file photo, Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, Politburo Standing Committee member Wang Qishan, center, and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang attend a ceremony marking Martyrs' Day at Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Having bested his rivals, Chinese President Xi is primed to consolidate his already considerable power as the country's ruling Communist Party begins its twice-a-decade national congress on Wednesday, Oct. 18. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File) In this Oct. 16, 2017 photo, residents pass by a board with the words "Welcome the 19th Congress" on the streets of Beijing, China. Extraordinary security measures are being imposed ahead of the party congress, in addition to the typical security forces, thousands of deputized citizens patrol the streets, and knife, fireworks and chemical sales have been suspended. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) Tuo Zhen, right, spokesperson for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China speaks during a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. Communists party leaders from across the country have gathered in the Chinese capital for the five yearly Party Congress where Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to get a second term as party leader. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) In this Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017, photo, women from a neighborhood dance group practice near a banner for the upcoming Communist Party congress in Beijing. As China's ruling Communist Party kicks off its twice-a-decade national congress on Wednesday, buildings, bridges and construction sites around Beijing have been festooned with banners heralding the party's merits and its goal of realizing the "Chinese Dream" of greater prosperity. The banner reads "Welcome the victorious opening of the 19th Party Congress with excellent achievements." (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) In this Oct. 12, 2017 photo, construction workers pass by a billboard reading "Welcome the 19th Party Congress" at a construction site in Beijing. Having bested his rivals, Chinese President Xi Jinping is primed to consolidate his already considerable power as the country's ruling Communist Party begins its twice-a-decade national congress on Wednesday, Oct. 18. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) In this Oct. 16, 2017 photo, a security guard with a shield and restraining pole keeps watch along the streets of Beijing, China. Extraordinary security measures are being imposed ahead of the party congress, in addition to the typical security forces, thousands of deputized citizens patrol the streets, and knife, fireworks and chemical sales have been suspended. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) In this Oct. 15, 2017 photo, Chinese paramilitary policemen guard a traffic junction in Beijing, China. Extraordinary security measures are being imposed ahead of the party congress, in addition to the typical security forces, thousands of deputized citizens patrol the streets, and knife, fireworks and chemical sales have been suspended. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) MARAWI, Philippines (AP) - The Latest on the militant siege in the southern Philippine city of Marawi (all times local): 2:20 p.m. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has declared the southern city of Marawi liberated though the military continues to battle a dwindling band of Muslim militants. In this photo released by the 4th Civil Relations Group, Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine military chief Gen. Eduardo Ano holds pictures of dead militant leaders during a press conference at a military camp in Marawi, southern Philippines on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017. The last two surviving leaders of a deadly siege in the southern Philippines, including a top Asian terror suspect, were killed Monday in a push by thousands of troops to retake the last pocket of Marawi city still held by pro-Islamic State militants, top security officials said. Officials said that Isnilon Hapilon, who is listed among the FBI's most-wanted terror suspects, and Omarkhayam Maute were killed in a gunbattle and their bodies were found Monday in Marawi. (4th Civil Relations Group, Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines via AP) Duterte spoke Tuesday in Marawi before an audience of troops at a ruined school campus more than a kilometer from the area where fighting continues. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi city liberated from the terrorist influence," he said to cheers. Military chief Gen. Eduardo Ano told AP that Duterte's statement means the threat from the militants, who've been fighting in Marawi since May 23, is substantially over. "They're leaderless and they have no more organization," he said. "There are still skirmishes." ___ Noon Sporadic gunfire and explosions can be heard in the southern Philippine city of Marawi as soldiers fight the remaining Islamic militants to gain control of the last pocket of the city. The military, which killed two key militant leaders on Monday, hopes it is the final phase of defeating a dwindling band of fighters who have occupied Marawi for five months. Military spokesman Restituto Padilla said Tuesday there were 20 to 30 militants left, including about six to eight foreign fighters. The lakeside city has been devastated by fighting that began May 23. Philippine flags hung from pockmarked buildings and houses, their roofs either blasted away or riddled with gunshot holes. Soldiers stood guard in front of some buildings and at intersections where battle debris has been shoveled to the side. KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - The Taliban unleashed a wave of attacks across Afghanistan on Tuesday, targeting police compounds and government facilities with suicide bombers in the country's south, east and west, and killing at least 74 people, officials said. Among those killed in one of the attacks was a provincial police chief. Scores were also wounded, both policemen and civilians. Afghanistan's deputy interior minister, Murad Ali Murad, called the onslaught the "biggest terrorist attack this year." Afghan National Amy commandos open fire during a military exercise in Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Massoud Hossaini) Murad told a press conference in Kabul that attacks in Ghazni and Paktia provinces killed 71 people. In southern Paktia province, 41 people - 21 policemen and 20 civilians - were killed when the Taliban targeted a police compound in the provincial capital of Gardez with two suicide car bombs. Among the wounded were 48 policemen and 110 civilians. The provincial police chief, Toryalai Abdyani, was killed in the Paktia attack, Murad said. The Interior Ministry said in a statement earlier Tuesday that after the two cars blew up in Gardez, five attackers with suicide belts tried to storm the compound but were killed by Afghan security forces. Health Ministry spokesman Waheed Majroo said the Gardez city hospital reported receiving at least 130 wounded in the attack. Hamza Aqmhal, a student at the Paktia University, told The Associated Press that he heard a very powerful blast that shattered glass and broke all the windows at the building he was in. The university is about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from the training academy, said Aqmhal, who was slightly injured by the glass. A lawmaker from Paktia, Mujeeb Rahman Chamkani, said that along with the provincial police chief, several of his staff were killed. Most of the casualties were civilians who had come to the center, which also serves a government passport department, Chamkani said. In southern Ghazni province, the insurgents stormed a security compound in Andar district, using a suicide car bomb and killing 25 police and five civilians, Murad said. At least 15 people were wounded, including 10 policemen, he added. Arif Noori, spokesman for the provincial governor in Ghazni, said the Taliban attack there lasted nine hours. By the time the attackers were repelled, there were 13 bodies of Taliban fighters on the ground, Noori added. And in western Farah province, police chief Abdul Maruf Fulad says the Taliban attacked a government compound in Shibkho district, killing three policemen. The Taliban claimed responsibility for all three attacks. Despite the staggering numbers, Murad said Afghan forces are confident in their "readiness to fight terrorists and eliminate them from Afghanistan." He said the Taliban have suffered heavy defeats over the past six months at the hands of Afghan forces and were seeking revenge. Later on Tuesday, an Afghan official said drone strikes killed 35 Taliban fighters in the country's east, near the border with Pakistan. Abdullah Asrat, spokesman for the governor of Paktia province, said drones fired missiles at four locations in Anzarki Kandaw, killing the insurgents and wounding 15 others. He said a commander of the Pakistani Taliban, Abu Bakr, and other senior insurgents were among the dead. He did not provide further details. Chamkani, the lawmaker from Paktia, said the drones struck as the Taliban were collecting the bodies of 20 militants killed in a strike Monday on a militant base near the border. Pakistani intelligence officials say Monday's drone strike hit a militant compound on the Pakistani side of the border, but Pakistan's army later denied any such strike on its territory. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the two accounts. KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - The Latest on developments in Afghanistan where the Taliban have staged several attacks targeting police across the country (all times local): 9:30 p.m. An Afghan official says drone strikes have killed 35 Taliban fighters in the country's east, near the border with Pakistan. Afghan National Amy soldiers watch during a military exercise in Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Massoud Hossaini) Abdullah Asrat, spokesman for the governor of Paktia province, says drones fired missiles at four locations in Anzarki Kandaw on Tuesday, killing the insurgents and wounding 15 others. Asrat says a commander of the Pakistani Taliban, Abu Bakr, and other senior insurgents were among the dead. He did not provide further details. Mujeeb Rahman Chamkani, a lawmaker from Paktia, says the drones struck as the Taliban were collecting the bodies of 20 militants killed in a strike Monday on a militant base near the border. Pakistani intelligence officials say the drone strike hit a militant compound on the Pakistani side of the border, but Pakistan later denied any such strike on its territory. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the two accounts. ___ 6:10 p.m. Afghanistan's deputy interior minister says the Taliban have killed 71 people in attacks in Ghazni and Paktia province. The official, Murad Ali Murad, told a press conference in Kabul that the attacks on Tuesday were the "biggest terrorist attack this year." He says in one of the attacks, in southern Paktia province, 41 people - 21 policemen and 20 civilians - were killed when the Taliban targeted a police compound in the provincial capital of Gardez with two suicide car bombs. Scores were also wounded - 48 policemen and 110. The provincial police chief was among those killed in the Paktia attack. Murad says that in the attack in Andar district in Ghazni province, 25 policemen were killed and also five civilians. At least 15 people were wounded, including 10 policemen. Despite the staggering numbers, Murad said Afghan forces are confident in their "readiness to fight terrorists and eliminate them from Afghanistan. ___ 5:30 p.m. An Afghan official has raised the death toll from a Taliban attack in the country's south, saying 15 policemen and five civilians were killed in Ghazni province. The insurgents stormed a security compound in Andar district, using a suicide car on Tuesday. Arif Noori, spokesman for the provincial, says the attack lasted nine hours and also left 24 policemen and 20 civilians wounded. Noori says that by the time the attack was repelled, there were 13 bodies of Taliban fighters on the ground. It was one in a wave of attacks by the Taliban that targeted police across Afghanistan on Tuesday. ___ 3:15 p.m. Afghanistan's Ministry of Interior says a Taliban attack on a police compound in eastern Paktia province that began earlier in the day is over. The statement says Tuesday's attack began with two suicide car bombings. The vehicles were packed with explosives when the Taliban targeted the facility in Gardez, the Paktia provincial capital. It says that after the two cars blew up, five attackers with suicide belts tried to storm the compound. Afghan security forces "killed all five terrorist." The statement also says the attack killed the provincial chief of police, Toryalai Abdyani, and killed and wounded a number of others. It says detailed casualty figures would be released later. ___ 1:45 p.m. An Afghan health official says a Taliban attack on a police training center in the country's eastern Paktia province has killed at least 14 people, including civilians. Health Ministry spokesman Waheed Majroo says that dozens were also wounded in the attack on Tuesday in Gardez, the provincial capital. He says the city hospital reported receiving 130 wounded in the attack, which included a suicide bombing. Hamza Aqmhal, a student at the Paktia University, told The Associated Press that he heard a very powerful blast. He says it shattered glass and broke all the windows at the building he was in. He says the university is about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from the training academy. Aqmhal says he was slightly injured by the glass. A lawmaker from Paktia, Mujeeb Rahman Chamkni, says the provincial chief police, Toryalai Abdyani, and several of his staff were among those killed in the attack. He says most of the casualties are civilians who had come to the center, which also serves a government passport department. Reports from Gardez say the attack there is still underway. ___ 11 a.m. Afghan officials say Taliban attacks in the country's south, west and east have killed at least 10 policemen. In southern Ghazni province, the insurgents stormed a security compound, using a suicide car, and killed at least seven policemen. Provincial chief police, Mohammad Zaman, says the attack in Andar district early on Tuesday morning triggered several hours of heavy fighting until the attackers were repelled. Zaman says the district compound has been destroyed. In western Farah province, police chief Abdul Maruf Fulad says the Taliban attacked a government compound in Shibkho district, killing three policemen. The Interior Ministry says a militant attack, including a suicide car bombing is underway in eastern Paktia province's capital, Gardez, where insurgents targeted a police training center. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for all three attacks. WARSAW, Poland (AP) - Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged European Union leaders on Tuesday to simply say whether they want to accept Turkey as a member or not. "I would like to hear a clear declaration," Erdogan said on a visit to Poland. "If you want to accept Turkey, just do it. If you don't want to, just tell that." Turkey's decades of efforts to join the 28-member European club appear to be stalled by the government's harsh reaction to a coup attempt last year. Tens of thousands of people have been arrested or dismissed from their jobs in Turkey since the July 15, 2016, coup attempt. Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, and his Polish host, President Andrzej Duda are walking before the guard of honor during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Polish President Andrzej Duda said Poland backs Turkey's effort to join the EU. "Poland has supported and supports today Turkey's efforts to join the European Union," Duda said as she stood alongside Erdogan. "Turkey is an especially important EU partner in the area of security." Duda said they had a "very long and honest" talk about the current situation in Turkey, but didn't provide details. Erdogan was greeted in Poland with military honors earlier Tuesday. In an embarrassing diplomatic slipup, Erdogan missed a customary bow before a banner as he walked before Poland's troops, and Duda had to grab his elbow to make him return to the site. Erdogan's planned meeting with Prime Minister Beata Szydlo was canceled. Her spokesman Rafal Bochenek told The Associated Press it was because Erdogan needed to be briefed about a mine collapse in southeast Turkey on Tuesday that killed at least six miners. Earlier, Erdogan attended a Polish-Turkish business forum and urged businessmen to intensify ties between the two nations. Poland's small opposition left-wing Together party said Erdogan shouldn't be received with state honors because his government is "violating human rights." Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, and his Polish host, President Andrzej Duda shake hands during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, 2nd left, and his Polish host, President Andrzej Duda, left, are walking before the guard of honor during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, and his Polish host President Andrzej Duda, left, are walking before the guard of honor during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Polish host, President Andrzej Duda are walking before the guard of honor during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, and his Polish host, President Andrzej Duda are walking before the guard of honor during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, 2nd left, and his Polish host, President Andrzej Dudaleft, are walking before the guard of honor during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Visiting Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, rear left, and his Polish host, President Andrzej Duda listen to a military band during the welcoming ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, and his host, Poland's President Andrzej Duda, right, shake hands after delivering statements to the media following talks that included Poland's support for Turkey's EU membership efforts at the presidential palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, and his host, Poland's President Andrzej Duda, right, applaud before delivering statements to the media following talks that included Poland's support for Turkey's EU membership efforts at the presidential palace in Warsaw, Poland, on Tuesday, 17 Oct. 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, and his host, Poland's President Andrzej Duda, right, shake hands after delivering statements to the media following talks that included Poland's support for Turkey's EU membership efforts at the presidential palace in Warsaw, Poland, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski) BERLIN (AP) - A key potential ally in Germany's next government insisted Tuesday that Chancellor Angela Merkel's party shouldn't keep the finance ministry because that gives her too much power. Exploratory talks on a potential coalition of Merkel's conservatives, the pro-business Free Democrats and traditionally left-leaning Greens start on Wednesday. Merkel's current partners, the center-left Social Democrats, vowed to go into opposition after last month's election. Outgoing Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble, a member of Merkel's Christian Democratic Union, has been a powerful figure for the past eight years in domestic politics and in the eurozone's efforts to overcome the debt crisis that started in Greece. He is leaving to become parliamentary speaker. German Chancellor and chairwoman of the German Christian Democratic Party (CDU), Angela Merkel, attends a press conference at the party's headquarter in Berlin, Germany, Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 one day after the elections in the German state of Lower Saxony. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn) The Free Democrats' leader, Christian Lindner, told Tuesday's edition of the daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung that "anything would be better than keeping the chancellery and the finance ministry in the CDU's hands ... that has not stood the test." Merkel's chief of staff, Peter Altmaier, is expected to run the finance ministry on a caretaker basis from Schaeuble's departure until a new government is in place. Lindner said that underlines his argument that the ministry and the chancellery are too close. Lindner's party is widely believed to want the finance ministry though it hasn't explicitly demanded it. The Free Democrats have voiced opposition to a central eurozone budget and repeatedly raised the idea of Greece leaving the euro. In Tuesday's interview, Lindner reiterated his party's call for "an insolvency law for states" and the possibility of a country choosing to leave the shared currency. He also questioned the idea, advocated by Schaeuble, of transforming the existing eurozone rescue fund into a European Monetary Fund. "What I fear about a European Monetary Fund is that the representatives of stability policies would be in the minority and a pumping station for financial transfers will be created," he said. Workers prepare seats for members of the German federal parliament, Bundestag, in Berlin, Germany, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. The new German parliament will meet on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017 for the first time after the federal elections last month. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn) BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) - Russia increased pressure on Serbia on Tuesday to grant diplomatic status to the Russian staff of a controversial facility that U.S. officials believe could become Kremlin's spy base in the Balkans. Moscow has repeatedly denied reports that the so-called "Russian-Serbian Humanitarian Center" in the southern city of Nis was a base for Russia to eavesdrop on the West in the Balkans - a tense region where Russia is vying for influence. Moscow says the center is only for humanitarian missions. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's office said that during a meeting on Tuesday, Russian Ambassador to Serbia Alexander Chepurin urged him to resolve the status of the center "as soon as possible" because of "the volume of its work." FILE - This Thursday, Sept. 29, 2016 file photo, shows rubber boats with stickers in Russian that read: "From Russia to Serbian people" in a warehouse in a "Russian-Serbian Humanitarian Center" near an airport in the town of Nis, Serbia. Russia on Tuesday Oct. 17, 2017 pressured Serbia to grant diplomatic status to the Russian staff of a controversial facility near Nis, that U.S. officials believe could become Kremlin's spy base in the Balkans. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's office said Tuesday that Russian Ambassador Alexander Chepurin urged him to hold a meeting "as soon as possible" to resolve the status of the center. Moscow has repeatedly denied reports the alleged disaster relief center in the southern city of Nis could become a spy center. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic/File) Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic has said that "neither Moscow nor Washington" will influence her government's decision on the center's status. "The center in Nis is very important for our country because that's where the aid starts in emergency situations," she said. The U.S. has expressed concern about the center, which Russia and Serbia jointly opened in 2011. Its location is close to Serbia's border with NATO member Bulgaria and Kosovo, which houses a large American military base and the Western alliance's peacekeeping troops. The Russian Ministry for Emergency Situations is a partner in the center. The semi-military outfit's activities do include disaster relief, but the agency also carries out jobs for Russia's security services. Serbia has been boosting military, economic and other ties with its traditional Slavic ally Russia, while formally seeking European Union membership. The U.S. deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, Hoyt Brian Yee, told a recent Senate hearing on the Balkans that the existence of the base does not worry the Americans "for what it is now, but what it might become if it receives what Russia has been asking from Serbia, what is some kind of special status, a protected diplomatic status or immunity." FARGO A teenager who died in a North Dakota State University residence hall last month died of natural causes, according to the findings of an autopsy. Devin Delaney, 17, died from a malfunctioning beating of his heart that was likely brought on by a viral infection, said Darin Haverland, deputy coroner with the Cass County Coroners Office. Haverland said on Monday, Oct. 16, that the autopsy was done by a forensic pathologist at the University of North Dakota. He said Delaney may not have been aware of the problem, other than experiencing symptoms of a cold. Delaneys father, Tom Delaney, earlier released similar information, stating that he wanted to ease any fears on campus and to reassure the friends his son was visiting when he died. "I'm comforted by the fact that he just passed in his sleep, peacefully," Tom Delaney said. The father said the autopsy showed no illicit or prescription drugs in his son's system and only a negligible amount of alcohol. Devin Delaney, a senior at Burnsville High School, was found dead Sunday, Sept. 17, in NDSU's Sevrinson Hall, where he had been staying with a friend for the weekend. Tom Delaney said he knows his son and friends were drinking some the night before, but there's no indication they overdid it and no evidence it was a factor in his death. "There wasn't any physical action or drinking too much, that's all eliminated as even being related," Delaney said. JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Declassified files have revealed new details of U.S. government knowledge and support of an Indonesian army extermination campaign that killed several hundred thousand civilians during anti-communist hysteria in the mid-1960s. The thousands of files from the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta covering 1963-66 were made public Tuesday after a declassification review that began under the Obama administration. The Associated Press reviewed key documents in the collection in advance of their release. The files fill out the picture of a devastating reign of terror by the Indonesian army and Muslim groups that has been sketched by historians and in a U.S. State Department volume that was declassified in 2001 despite a last-minute CIA effort to block its distribution. FILE - In this Oct. 30, 1965, file photo, members of the Youth Wing of the Indonesian Communist Party (Pemuda Rakjat) are watched by soldiers as they are taken to prison in Jakarta following a crackdown on communists after an abortive coup against President Sukarno's government earlier in the month. Declassified files have revealed new details of American government knowledge and support of an Indonesian army extermination campaign that killed several hundred thousand civilians during anti-communist hysteria in the mid-1960s. (AP Photo/File) In 1965, Indonesia had the world's third-largest communist party after China and the Soviet Union, with several million members, and the country's president, the charismatic Sukarno, was vociferously socialist and anti-American. U.S. officials despaired of Indonesia's apparently unstoppable drift into the communist fold and were ecstatic when conservative generals imposed martial law in Jakarta, seized state radio and set out to annihilate the country's communist party on the pretext that it had tried to overthrow the government. Within months, the army would prevail in its power struggle with Sukarno, shifting Indonesia's political orientation to the U.S. and opening its huge market to American companies. The newly released files underline the U.S. Embassy's and State Department's early, detailed and ongoing knowledge of the killings and eagerness to avoid doing anything that would hinder the Indonesian army. Historians had already established that the U.S. provided lists of senior communist party officials, radio equipment and money as part of active support for the army. The documents also show that U.S. officials had credible information that contradicted the Indonesian army's lurid story that the kidnapping and killing of seven generals in an abortive coup by junior officers on Sept. 30, 1965, which paved the way for the bloodbath, was ordered by the Indonesian communist party and Beijing. The documents specifically mention mass killings ordered by Suharto, a general who within months would seize total power and rule Indonesia for more than three decades, and the pivotal role in carrying out the massacres by groups that today remain Indonesia's biggest mainstream Muslim organizations: Nahdlatul Ulama, its youth wing Ansor and Muhammadiyah. A Dec. 21, 1965, cable from the embassy's first secretary, Mary Vance Trent, to the State Department referred to events as a "fantastic switch which has occurred over 10 short weeks." It also included an estimate that 100,000 people had been slaughtered. In Bali alone, some 10,000 people had been killed by mid-December, including the parents and distant relatives of the island's pro-communist governor, and the slaughter was continuing, the cable said. Two months later, another embassy cable cited estimates that the killings in Bali had swelled to 80,000. A cable that was part of the 2001 State Department volume showed that by April 1966, the embassy was staggered by the scale of the murders and acknowledged, "We frankly do not know whether the real figure is closer to 100,000 or 1,000,000." Even the Indonesian government had only a "vague idea" of the true number, the cable said. The release of the documents coincides with an upsurge in anti-communist rhetoric in Indonesia, where communism remains a frequently invoked boogeyman for conservatives despite the collapse of the Soviet Union nearly three decades ago and China's embrace of global capitalism. Discussion of the 1965-66 period that departs from the Suharto era's partly fictional account of a heroic national uprising against communism is still discouraged. A landmark symposium last year that brought together aging survivors of the bloodbath and government ministers sparked a furious backlash. And last month, an anti-communist mob led by retired generals attacked a building in central Jakarta where activists had planned to discuss the killings. "The mass killings of 1965-66 are among the world's worst crimes against humanity, and our country's darkest secret," said Veronica Koman, an Indonesian human rights lawyer. "The 1965-66 survivors are all very old now, and I'm afraid that they will not see justice before they die. Hopefully with these cables coming to light, the truth can emerge and perpetrators can be held accountable." U.S. Senator Tom Udall, who in 2015 introduced a resolution in the Senate urging Indonesia's government to create a truth and reconciliation commission, said the U.S. must also confront its role in these "terrible acts." Indonesia's Muslim mass organizations are among those reluctant to face scrutiny for their role, which in the fevered atmosphere of 1965 was characterized by Islamic leaders as a holy war against atheists. Under the direction of the army, the Muslim organizations Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah were enthusiastic participants in mass murder, carrying out indiscriminate killings as well as organized executions, according to the documents. They also mention the army's recruiting of Catholics to help with its extermination campaign in central Java. A December 1965 cable from the U.S. Consulate in Medan, Indonesia, reported that preachers in Muhammadiyah mosques were telling congregations that all who joined the communist party must be killed, saying they are the "lowest order of infidel, the shedding of whose blood is comparable to killing chicken." A detailed four-page report covering mid- to late November 1965 by the U.S. Embassy's political affairs officer, Edward E. Masters, discussed the spread of mass executions to several provinces and the role of youth groups in helping to solve the "main problem" of where to house and what to feed PKI prisoners. PKI is the Indonesian acronym for the country's communist party. "Many provinces appear to be successfully meeting this problem by executing their PKI prisoners, or killing them before they are captured, a task in which Moslem youth groups are providing assistance," the report said. A cable from earlier in the month mentions an estimated 62,000 prisoners in the province of Central Java alone. Ansor, the youth arm of Nahdlatul Ulama, was responsible for "brutal attacks" on communists, according to a Dec. 10, 1965, cable, but also caused problems by doing the same to non-communists involved in personal feuds with its members. Possibly the earliest mention of systematic bloodshed in cables to Washington is a mid-October 1965 record of conversations between the embassy's second secretary and Bujung Nasution, a special assistant to Indonesia's attorney general involved with intelligence matters. Like other intermediaries of the Indonesian army and its allies sent to approach the embassy, Nasution was apparently trying to assess whether the U.S. would object to the extermination campaign. According to Nasution, the army had already executed many cadres, but this information, he said, must be closely held because the army needed more time to break the communists. The memo described Nasution as alarmed that reports of atrocities had been leaked to the Malaysian press. It said he warned that it was critical that Sukarno did not learn of the extent of the army's repression, especially from the foreign media. In response, the second secretary, Robert G. Rich, reassured Nasution. The U.S. government was fully aware of the sensitive nature of the current events, said Rich, and was "making every effort to avoid stimulating press speculation." In this Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, photo, visitors look at an old well where six Indonesian Army generals and a junior officer were buried in an abortive coup in 1965 that the military blamed on Indonesia's Communist Party and subsequently led to the anti-communist purge in 1965-1966, at Pancasila Sakti Monument in Jakarta, Indonesia. Declassified files have revealed new details of American government knowledge and support of an Indonesian army extermination campaign that killed several hundred thousand civilians during anti-communist hysteria in the mid-1960s. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) In this Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, photo, visitors take photos taken near the statues of the seven Army officers who were killed in an abortive coup in 1965 that the military blamed on Indonesia's Communist Party and subsequently led to the anti-communist purge in 1965-1966, at Pancasila Sakti Monument in Jakarta, Indonesia. Declassified files have revealed new details of American government knowledge and support of an Indonesian army extermination campaign that killed several hundred thousand civilians during anti-communist hysteria in the mid-1960s. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) FILE - In this Sept. 3, 2016 file photo, Asrori, left, and Sukar, eye witnesses to the aftermath of an execution of local communist party members in 1965, clean up dry leaves around the monument erected at the site of a mass grave in Plumbon village, Central Java, Indonesia. Declassified files have revealed new details of American government knowledge and support of an Indonesian army extermination campaign that killed several hundred thousand civilians during anti-communist hysteria in the mid-1960s. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara, File) In this Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, photo, visitors look at a diorama depicting the torture and killing of six army generals and a junior officer in an abortive coup in 1965 that the military blamed on Indonesia's Communist Party and subsequently led to the anti-communist purge in 1965-1966, at Pancasila Sakti Monument in Jakarta, Indonesia. Declassified files have revealed new details of American government knowledge and support of an Indonesian army extermination campaign that killed several hundred thousand civilians during anti-communist hysteria in the mid-1960s. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) NAPA, Calif. (AP) - The Latest on California wildfires (all times local): 5:30 p.m. Schools in Napa County will remain closed until Monday, officials said. In this Friday, Oct. 13, 2017, photo provided by Will Bucquoy shows a newborn baby antelope enjoying the special attention by a giraffe at Safari West in Santa Rosa, Calif. The days-old endangered baby antelope born amid the Northern California wildfires has died. Aphrodite Caserta, spokeswoman for Sonoma County's Safari West, said Tuesday, Oct. 17, the cause of the animal's death is unknown. (Will Bucquoy via AP) The Napa Valley Unified School District had planned to open school Wednesday. But the district's superintendent said Tuesday that air quality in the area worsened overnight. Napa Valley Community College is also remaining closed the rest of the week. ___ 5:10 p.m. The California Psychological Association has sent out an "urgent request" by email to a distribution list of about 13,000 licensed psychologists seeking volunteers to help wildfire evacuees cope with emotional trauma. Jo Linder-Crow, the association's chief executive, said Tuesday the email was sent out a day earlier to licensed mental health providers across California. The email warned of "a tremendous acute and longterm impact" caused by the deadly wildfires and called for volunteers to help out at shelters. As firefighters gained more control Tuesday of the massive wildfires in Northern California, officials and trauma experts worried about the emotional toll taken by the grueling week of major blazes. At least 41 people were killed, more than 6,000 homes were destroyed, and tens of thousands of people remain under evacuation orders. ___ 3:25 p.m. Authorities have identified the firefighter who was killed when the water transport truck he was driving rolled over near one of the wildfires that has devastated parts of Northern California. The Napa County's sheriff-coroner office said Tuesday that 38-year-old Garrett Paiz of Missouri died in the crash early Monday. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection identified him as a privately contracted water-tender driver. Paiz was the first firefighting worker to die because of the wildfires that have killed at least 41 and destroyed thousands of homes. He is also a volunteer firefighter, but he was not working in that capacity at the time of his death. California Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash that happened in the tiny Napa Valley community of Oakville. ___ 3:05 p.m. About 60 people remain unaccounted for in Napa and Sonoma counties, down from roughly 100 on Monday. Sonoma County Sheriff Rob Giordano said Tuesday 53 people remain as reported missing more than a week after deadly wildfires started in Northern California's wine country. The city of Santa Rosa is investigating 26 of those reports. The county received nearly 2,000 reports of people missing, but most of the people have been located. Sonoma County also referred three dozen names of missing to other counties. He said the number of dead remains at 22. Napa County reported eight people on its unaccounted list. It was unclear how many people are actually missing because reports have included duplicate names or names of people who were safe but unable to call relatives. Some people reported as missing also never knew someone had been looking for them. ___ 2 p.m. Parts of southbound Highway 101 were closed Tuesday as firefighters battle brush fires in Northern California's Marin County. The San Francisco Chronicle writes that reports of fire came in to the California Highway Patrol shortly before noon. Traffic was being diverted off the freeway near the Robin Williams Tunnel, just north of San Francisco. The San Francisco Bay Area is on edge given weeklong fires in wine country and a new fire that cropped up Monday night in the Santa Cruz mountains. ___ 12:35 p.m. A days-old endangered baby antelope born amid destructive Northern California wildfires has died. Aphrodite Caserta, spokeswoman for Sonoma County's Safari West, said Tuesday the cause of the animal's death is unknown. The species is found in swamps and grasslands in South Sudan and Ethiopia. The baby was born Friday as thick smoke clogged parts of wine country during deadly fires that began Oct. 8. Staff at the 400-acre private wildlife preserve named him Tubbs after the wildfire that had threatened the preserve. Caserta said Tubbs looked strong and seemed to thrive but began to falter. She called the birth "a much needed ray of light in a time of darkness." ___ 12:10 p.m. Police have arrested a woman who they say stole credit cards and checkbooks from evacuees of the Northern California wildfires. The San Francisco Chronicle reported that 31-year-old Katie Lehnhard of Petaluma was identified as a suspect after a fire victim reported to police that fraudulent charges had been made against her bank account. Police say they conducted a search and found a stash of personal identification information belonging to Santa Rosa fire victims staying in a shelter. Lynne Stark-Slater, chief deputy public defender for Sonoma County, said she does not know if Lehnhard has a lawyer. Stark-Slater said she also is not certain if Lehnhard has been charged, as the Superior Court in Sonoma County has closed temporarily due to fires. Tens of thousands of people were forced from their homes during the wildfires in wine country. Police advised residents to make sure their vehicles are locked and to contact the U.S. Postal Service to redirect mail if they have lost their home. ___ 10:30 a.m. Smoke is descending into the coastal beach town of Santa Cruz from a fire that broke out late Monday, destroying four structures and injuring five firefighters. Rob Sherman, division chief at the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, says the fire in the Santa Cruz mountains has grown from 125 acres to 150 acres and was 5 percent contained. About 150 homes have been evacuated and dozens of people are at two evacuation centers. The state fire agency had previously said the cause was a house fire, but spokeswoman Angela Bernheisel says it's unclear if the structure was a house. Smoke is visible almost 20 miles (32 kilometers) away at the forested University of California at Santa Cruz campus. Officials issued a notice to students that if the situation becomes threatening they will issue an emergency alert. ___ 9:45 a.m. Santa Rosa's Sutter Hospital has re-opened after evacuating nearly 80 patients a week ago within a frantic six hours as one of the wine country wildfires crept closer to the facility. It was one of two hospitals to evacuate patients Oct. 9. The other facility was Kaiser Permanente's Santa Rosa Medical Center, which evacuated 130 patients. Firefighters have been using water from the hospital's private water main, a system put in place during the 2014 construction of the facility for use in disasters. The six underground water tanks were designed with earthquakes in mind, but the 500,000 gallons of water has helped fight fires this last week. The facility re-opened Tuesday morning. ___ 9:05 a.m. Authorities say five firefighters have sustained minor injuries while battling a blaze that sprang up late Monday in the Santa Cruz mountains. Rob Sherman, division chief of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, says a firefighter slipped several dozen feet down a ravine and has face lacerations and possible wrist fracture. An inmate firefighter was treated for smoke inhalation, and three other firefighters slipped in steep terrain. Sherman says the rugged terrain has been a challenge. The fire is holding at 125 acres and evacuations of 150 homes are ongoing. The vegetation blaze was sparked by a house fire. ___ 8:25 p.m. Authorities say roughly 34,000 people remain evacuated from wildfires in Northern California that broke out a week ago. The number is much lower than a high of nearly 100,000 on Saturday in Sonoma, Napa and other counties. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection says the death toll remains at 41 with more than 5,700 homes and structures destroyed. Elsewhere, about 150 households have been evacuated after a wildfire broke out in the Santa Cruz mountains in the southern San Francisco Bay Area. ___ 7:30 a.m. Two firefighters have been injured battling a blaze in California's Santa Cruz mountains. One firefighter was rescued after falling down a steep ravine and is being transported to a hospital. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokeswoman Angela Bernheisel says the firefighter has a possible wrist fracture. Another firefighter was treated earlier for smoke inhalation. Authorities say the fire is holding at 125 acres and evacuations of 150 homes are ongoing. The vegetation blaze was sparked by a house fire. In the state's wine country to the north, firefighters are getting a handle on a number of wildfires that broke out about a week ago, killing at least 40 people and destroying thousands of buildings and homes. ___ Corrects name of state fire agency to California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection ___ 6:45 a.m. Helicopters are making water drops as crews working in steep terrain battle an out-of-control fire burning near a historic observatory and communications towers on Mount Wilson northeast of Los Angeles. Robert Diaz of the Los Angeles County Fire Department says more than 25 acres of dry brush have been charred since the blaze broke out shortly before 4 a.m. Tuesday near the 5,710 foot (1,740 meter) peak. There is no containment. A huge plume of smoke is visible across the Los Angeles basin and surrounding valleys. Officials say the observatory has been evacuated and the fire is not burning near foothill residences. Firefighters hope to make progress surrounding the fire while winds remain calm amid cooler morning temperatures. Mount Wilson, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) northeast of downtown Los Angeles, houses critical broadcast and communications antennas for the region. ___ 6:15 a.m. Northern California firefighters are battling a fire that sprang up overnight in the southern Bay Area Santa Cruz mountains, prompting evacuation orders. Rob Sherman, division chief of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, tells KNTV news that at least one structure is destroyed and about 100 homes threatened. Sherman said that a house fire is believed to have sparked the quick-spreading blaze. Firefighters plan to attack the flames from air once the sun rises. A cluster of wildfires have been burning in northern California for a week. The fires, the deadliest cluster in California history, have killed at least 41 people and destroyed nearly 6,000 homes. ___ 3 a.m. A week after fleeing wildfires, tens of thousands of Californians are drifting back into their neighborhoods. Some will face the prospect of destroyed homes. All will face possible lasting emotional damage. Mendocino County Supervisor Rob Brown said Monday that "it's never going to be the same" for the 8,000 evacuees from his county allowed to return home. Brown said they'll have to seek a new normal after the destruction, displacement and devastation of the fires that destroyed nearly 6,000 homes and killed 41 people. Officials in neighboring Sonoma County, which had the most death and destruction, said they have increasingly been getting calls from people worried about mentally coping with what's happened. Fire crews are driven up a fire road en route to battling a wildfire Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, near Boulder Creek, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) A fire burns atop Mount Wilson, seen from Pasadena, Calif., northeast of Los Angeles on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. The fire erupted in the early morning on the 5,713-foot (1,741-meter) peak, near the region's TV and radio broadcast towers and the historic Mount Wilson Observatory. (AP Photo/John Antczak) The Santa Cruz Mountains are covered in smoke from a wildfire Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, near Boulder Creek, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) Crews chop down branches and trees as they battle a wildfire Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, near Boulder Creek, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) CANTON, Ohio (AP) - A police interview in which a Chinese woman acknowledged killing her 5-year-old daughter should be excluded from her murder trial because an interpreter wasn't present, her defense attorney argued. Twenty-nine-year-old Mingming Chen, of Jackson Township, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity in the death of Ashley Zhao, whose body was found hidden in their family's North Canton restaurant after she was reported missing in January. Prosecutors noted in court on Monday that Chen hadn't requested the interpreter to return when she acknowledged killing Ashley, The Repository reported . Chen cried when segments of the police interview were played in court. Mingming Chen, right, attends a hearing where her defense attorney argued that a police interview in which Chen acknowledged killing her 5-year-old daughter should be excluded from the Chinese woman's murder trial because a translator wasn't present, on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, in Stark County Common Pleas Court in Canton, Ohio. Chen, of Jackson Township, Ohio, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, in the death of Ashley Zhao, whose body was found hidden in the family's North Canton, Ohio, restaurant on Jan. 10, 2017, a day after she was reported missing. Chen cried as portions of a police interview were played Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, on a projection screen in the courtroom. (Michael Balash/The Canton Repository via AP) Chen waived her constitutional rights concerning police questioning and agreed to be questioned without an attorney during the interview. She understood the notice of constitutional rights when it was read to her in Mandarin Chinese, according to FBI language specialist Lynn Tai. Chen's attorney, Richard Drucker, argued she waived her right to an attorney during the interview with the understanding an interpreter would be present. The interpreter left for an unexplained reason, and Chen was left with the detective, Drucker said. Drucker also argued that police never told Chen she was free to leave during the interview. A judge will decide whether to allow the interview as evidence. Authorities allege that Chen repeatedly punched her daughter and that Chen's husband, Liang Zhao, tried to revive the girl before helping to hide her body. Zhao pleaded guilty to charges including obstructing justice and corpse abuse. ___ Information from: The Repository, http://www.cantonrep.com Mingming Chen attends a hearing where her defense attorney argued a police interview in which Chen acknowledged killing her 5-year-old daughter should be excluded from the Chinese woman's murder trial because a translator wasn't present, on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, in Stark County Common Pleas Court in Canton, Ohio. Chen, of Jackson Township, Ohio, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, in the death of Ashley Zhao, whose body was found hidden in the family's North Canton, Ohio, restaurant on Jan. 10, 2017, a day after she was reported missing. Chen cried as portions of a police interview were played Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, on a projection screen in the courtroom. (Michael Balash/The Canton Repository via AP) BRUSSELS (AP) - The European Union's Brexit negotiator urged the British government Tuesday to keep up the momentum in negotiations on leaving the bloc if it wants the talks to advance to a new phase in December. "It's very important to maintain this constructive dynamic in the coming two months," Michel Barnier told reporters in Luxembourg. Barnier held dinner talks Monday with British Prime Minister Theresa May and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker as London seeks to broaden the Brexit negotiations, around a year before the highly technical and complex talks must be completed to leave time for parliaments to endorse any agreement. Pro-EU supporters hold European Union flags with a Union flag across the street from the Houses of Parliament in London, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) The EU says it will only discuss future relations with Britain once "sufficient progress" has been made on the divorce bill, the rights of citizens hit by Brexit and the status of the Northern Ireland-Ireland border. May believes these issues are deeply linked to future EU-U.K. relations, and that it all should be discussed as a package. EU leaders are unlikely to broaden the talks at their two-day summit starting Thursday but might do so when they meet again in Brussels in December. May and Juncker said in a statement late Monday that the Brexit talks "should accelerate over the months to come." But it's unclear exactly what that means. Barnier is mindful that time is fast running out for a deal to be sealed before Britain leaves on March 29, 2019 and has already offered to speed things up. Britain too wants to move on, but the size of the divorce bill - estimated at anywhere between 60 and 100 billion euros ($70-120 billion) - remains the biggest hurdle. "I am ready to accelerate," Barnier said again Tuesday, but he added that "it takes two to accelerate." Asked what "accelerate" means, Britain's minister of state at the Department for Exiting the EU, Joyce Anelay said: "You put your foot on the gas in a car. You know you go faster. That's what it means." In a draft statement prepared for this week's summit, the EU leaders say that in December they "will reassess the state of progress in the negotiations with a view to determining whether sufficient progress has been achieved." If things go well, they will "adopt additional guidelines in relation to the framework for the future relationship and on possible transitional arrangements," according to the draft, seen by The Associated Press and which could be modified before, or at, the summit. Pro-EU supporters hold European Union flags across the street from the Houses of Parliament in London, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) ALLENTOWN, Pa. (AP) - Police say a Pennsylvania man broke into a market so he could get money to pay his court fines for marijuana possession. Allentown police arrested Edwin Cuadrado in the attempted burglary at Heresh's Market early Monday. Police say the 20-year-old was wearing a black coat, head covering and gloves - despite temperatures in the 60s - when he threw a heavy object at the market's door. Police say Cuadrado acknowledged smashing a window so he could try to open the store's door, telling investigators he owed money for his previous drug conviction. Cuadrado remained jailed Tuesday on burglary, criminal trespass and criminal mischief charges. He has applied for a public defender but isn't yet represented by that office. ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Officials say a European Union-funded project that provides cash assistance to the most vulnerable refugee families in Turkey has reached 1 million beneficiaries a year after its launch. The program provides debit cards to the most disadvantaged families, allowing them to buy food and meet other needs. Billed as the EU's largest humanitarian project, it was launched following an agreement between Turkey and the EU in which the bloc pledged 3 billion euros to help Syrian migrants in Turkey in return for Turkish assistance in curbing illegal migration to Europe. Christof Stylianides, the EU commissioner for humanitarian aid, said Tuesday: "We have made a difference for a staggering 1 million people already." He was in Turkey to mark the milestone. Turkey hosts more than 3 million mostly-Syrian refugees. BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) - The rector of a university founded by financier and philanthropist George Soros is urging Hungary to sign an agreement with New York state guaranteeing the school's continued operations in Budapest. Central European University's Michael Ignatieff said Tuesday that the institution had complied with changes to Hungary's law on higher education but was being held in "legal limbo." Ignatieff said "it's as if we're being slowly strangled" by the government's inaction. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban considers Soros a key ideological foe and the government is in the midst of a renewed campaign against Soros' support for immigration. The need for an agreement with New York state, where CEU is accredited but has no campus yet, is part of the government's new rules. DOVER, Del. (AP) - Sixteen inmates have been charged with first-degree murder and assault, and face life in prison if convicted in the death of a corrections officer during February's riot at Delaware's maximum-security lockup. The indictment announced Tuesday also charges 18 inmates in all with kidnapping, riot and conspiracy in the uprising, during which three guards and a female counselor were taken hostage in a standoff that lasted nearly 20 hours. "This was an extremely important and time-consuming investigation that involved unique challenges." Attorney General Matt Denn said in a statement announcing Monday's indictment by a New Castle County grand jury. "I appreciate the police and prosecutors' focus on ensuring that justice is done for the victims in this case and their families." FILE - In this Feb. 1, 2017 file photo, the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center near Smyrna, Del., remains on lockdown following a riot. Delaware has charged 18 inmates in the deadly riot and hostage-taking at the state's maximum-security prison, most of them on murder charges, according to an indictment that was made public Tuesday, Oct. 17. The riot resulted in the murder of Lieutenant Steven Floyd, injuries to Correctional Officers Winslow Smith and Joshua Wilkinson, and the kidnapping of counselor Patricia May. (Suchat Pederson /The Wilmington News-Journal via AP, File) Police and prosecutors will have no further comment because the investigation continues and court rules bar prosecutors from discussing criminal matters ahead of trial, the Delaware Department of Justice statement said. The indictment itself revealed no details: It does not explain specifically what these 18 men allegedly did, nor show how authorities identified them as the responsible inmates. Outrage over the death of Lt. Steven Floyd prompted state House lawmakers to vote this year to reinstate Delaware's death penalty, but the effort died in the Senate, so the most severe punishment they can get is life without parole. All of those charged are currently in Delaware prisons. Eleven are already doing time for murder or manslaughter. Four already are serving life sentences. Carl Kanefsky, a DOJ spokesman, said arraignments were being conducted and bail conditions were being set on Tuesday morning. The facility was placed on lockdown as the newly indicted inmates traveled to court, said a Department of Corrections spokeswoman, Jayme Gravell. Brendan O'Neill, Delaware's chief public defense attorney, said in a statement that his office has started the process of providing lawyers for the inmates and that each defendant is presumed innocent of the new charges. The uprising began on Feb. 1 as inmates using homemade weapons seized a housing unit and took four hostages at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center. Authorities said Floyd was forced into a closet and killed by his captors. His death was later ruled homicide by trauma. Two other correctional officers, Winslow Smith and Joshua Wilkinson, were released after being tormented and beaten by inmates. Authorities finally rescued the female counselor, Patricia May, after using a backhoe to breach a wall. Two weeks before that, some inmates in the same building refused to return to their cells after recreation time until they were allowed to speak with a supervisor about housing conditions. Some correctional officers - including Floyd - told supervisors that the instigators of that Jan. 15 incident should be moved to another building for security reasons. The request was dismissed by higher-ranking officials. The dismissal of the security warnings was indicative of an overcrowded, understaffed facility plagued by mismanagement, a lack of communication, a culture of negativity, and adversarial relationships between prison staff and administrators, according to the independent review ordered by Gov. John Carney and released in September. Stephen Hampton, a Dover attorney who's been in touch with 200 inmates since the riot, said prisoners were beaten and abused after the uprising. He questioned whether any confessions or statements could be admissible in court. Gravell rejected Hampton's claims: "Our officers are highly trained and will absolutely respect the constitutional rights of the inmates," she said. Meanwhile, a lawsuit filed by Floyd's family and other prison employees is pending, alleging that state officials ignored staffing and security issues. One of their attorneys, Thomas S. Neuberger, said in a statement his clients are pleased with the charges, noting that some defendants are convicted murderers. But he said the survivors are unable to continue their careers, enduring post-traumatic stress disorder, the effects of concussions and other conditions. "(T)hey are worse off today than in February," the attorney said. "Their lives will forever be changed." The 16 inmates facing three murder counts each in Floyd's death (intentional murder, felony murder, and recklessly causing death of a correctional officer), as well as assault, kidnapping, riot and conspiracy charges are Jarreau Ayers, 36; Abednego Baynes, 25; Kevin Berry, 27; John Bramble, 28; Abdul-Haqq El-Qadeer, aka Louis Sierra, 31; Deric Forney, 28; Kelly Gibbs, 29; Robert Hernandez, 36; Janiis Mathis, 25; Lawrence Michaels, 31; Obadiah Miller, 25; Jonatan Rodriguez, 25; Alejandro Rodriguez-Ortiz, 27; Roman Shankaras, 30; Corey Smith, 32; and Dwayne Staats, 35. Two others face kidnapping, riot and conspiracy counts: Pedro Chairez, 42; and Royal Downs, 52. BERLIN (AP) - German air safety officials say they've asked bankrupt carrier Air Berlin to explain why one of its pilots aborted his landing at Duesseldorf Airport at the last moment to make a low pass around the control tower. An Air Berlin flight was returning to Germany from Miami early Monday when the unidentified pilot performed the pass. Several witnesses captured the Airbus A330 on video. A Federal Aviation Office spokesman said Tuesday that it is not unusual for pilots to abort landings when necessary. But Stefan Commessmann told The Associated Press that the Air Berlin pilot's action "differs from the usual maneuver and the reason for it needs to be clarified." Air Berlin didn't respond to calls. The airline ceases operating at the end of October. ___ Video from tower: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-bZaghb1CU BAGHDAD (AP) - U.S.-backed forces in northern Syria say they have captured Raqqa, once the seat of power for the Islamic State group, on Tuesday after a grueling four-month battle that left the city in ruins. Here are five things to know about Raqqa, and what comes next in the war on IS: CAPITAL OF THE 'CALIPHATE' FILE - In this undated file photo posted on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2014 by the Raqqa Media Center of the Islamic State group, a militant extremist group, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, fighters from the Islamic State group pray at the Tabqa air base after capturing it from the Syrian government in Raqqa, Syria. (Raqqa Media Center of the Islamic State group via AP, File) Raqqa, on the banks of the Euphrates River and with a population of about of 200,000, was the first city to fall into the hands of Islamic State militants. Free Syrian Army rebels and al-Qaida fighters seized the city in 2013, bringing with them Sunni jihadis from the Islamic State of Syria and Iraq, known then mostly as ISIS. The jihadis, in turn, expelled al-Qaida and the moderate opposition fighters from the city in January 2014 and set about transforming Raqqa into the de facto political capital of their soon-to-be declared "caliphate." IS razed Raqqa's main Shiite mosque and converted churches into Islamic centers. Christians and other minorities were persecuted; most fled the city and the rest were compelled to pay a special tax. But those who could stay lived in relative security, as the bulk of the fighting over Syria was waged in the country's western cities. ___ TERROR-PLANNING HUB Self-proclaimed IS caliph and the head of the militant group, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, called on doctors and engineers to travel to Raqqa to help build his "caliphate" and realize the dream of global jihad. Foreign fighters flocked to the city from around the world. Schools were closed, and children were sent to mosques for indoctrination into jihad and camps for military training. Foreign journalists and aid workers were held in the city's prisons and beheaded in videos that brought the IS militants the global attention they craved. Planning for some of the major attacks in Europe in recent years, including the 2015 Paris attacks, which killed 130 people, and the 2016 suicide attacks on the Brussels airport and subway, which killed 32, was traced back to Raqqa. ___ VICTORY AT A DEVASTATING COST In June 2016, a Kurdish-led group called the Syrian Democratic Forces launched operations to capture the city. Backed by U.S. airstrikes and artillery fire, it took the SDF four months of street fighting to recapture Raqqa. As the battle dragged on, the U.S.-led coalition intensified its bombardment. According to Airwars, a group that monitors the human cost of the U.S. and Russian air campaigns in Syria and Iraq, the coalition dropped more shells and bombs on Raqqa in August 2017 than it did on all of Afghanistan in the same month. In September, the New York-based monitoring group Physicians for Human Rights said that there was only one hospital left operating in the city, which was treating wounds with just salt and water. Rescuers had stopped digging for survivors of the airstrikes for fear of being struck themselves. Airwars and the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights say more than 1,000 civilians were killed just by coalition airstrikes since SDF forces first entered the city in June. The Pentagon says some 1,100 SDF fighters have been killed and nearly 4,000 wounded in the twin offensives on Raqqa and the nearby city of Deir el-Zour. Today, Raqqa lies in ruins. Whole neighborhoods have been turned to rubble, and most of the population has been displaced to overcrowded camps and towns. ___ LINGERING TENSIONS Now that the Kurdish-led SDF has Raqqa, the question is what to do with it. The group has appointed a civilian administration of locals to rebuild the city, but bigger questions loom. The SDF is a multi-ethnic force, but its Kurdish leadership harbors ambitions of autonomous rule over a Kurdish region in Syria that now includes the Arab-majority Raqqa. The ruling Kurdish Democratic Union Party, or PYD, no doubt with an eye on the Kurdish independence referendum held in Iraq on Sept. 25, understands it may never have a better opportunity to attain self-rule. Syrian Arabs by-and-large prefer a unified country, and Kurdish domination over Raqqa threatens to engender resentment. At a summer graduation for the city's reconstructed police corps, The Associated Press spoke to SDF-trained cadets who struggled to make sentences in Arabic. A backlash among Raqqa's Sunni Arab population against the Kurds is a real concern. ___ WHAT'S NEXT: CHASING IS IN EAST SYRIA The war on IS has already shifted to Syria's eastern Deir el-Zour province, which holds much of the country's oil and gas resources, plus a valuable crossing with Iraq. The jihadis still hold about 130 kilometers (81 miles) of the Euphrates River Valley inside Syria, including several key strongholds. Unlike in Raqqa, there are two parties chasing IS in Deir el-Zour. Iranian- and Russian-backed Syrian government forces are gaining ground on the southeast banks of the river, while the U.S.-backed SDF are advancing on the northwest. The stakes are high and the two sides have exchanged accusations of firing on one another. The United States does not want Iran to secure a corridor across Iraq and Syria all the way to the Mediterranean. IS is fighting a losing battle, and its days in northern and eastern Syria are numbered, though it will likely survive for some time as an insurgent group. The question now is who will pick up the pieces of its terrible rule. FILE - In this undated file photo posted by the Raqqa Media Center in Islamic State group-held territory, on Monday, June 30, 2014, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, fighters from the Islamic State group ride tanks during a parade in Raqqa, Syria. (AP Photo/Raqqa Media Center, File) FILE - In this file photo taken on Feb. 17, 2016, a volunteer fighter with the Syrian Government forces sits atop a tank in the province of Raqqa, Syria. (Alexander Kots/Komsomolskaya Pravda via AP, File) FILE - In this July 28, 2017 file photo, a Kurdish man mourns as he sits next to the grave of his friend who was killed while fighting against Islamic State militants in Raqqa, at a cemetery in Kobani, Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - In this still file image taken from drone footage posted online Monday, March. 27, 2017 by the Aamaq News Agency, a media arm of the Islamic State group, shows the Tabqa Dam, in Raqqa, Syria. (Aamaq News Agency via AP, File) FILE - In this Monday, July 24, 2017 file photo, a Syrian family who fled the battle between U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Islamic State militants from Raqqa city, arrive at a refugee camp, in Ain Issa town, northeast Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - This undated file photo posted on Aug. 27, 2014 by the Raqqa Media Center of the Islamic State group, a Syrian opposition group, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, shows a fighter from the Islamic State group, armed with a knife and an automatic weapon, next to captured Syrian army soldiers and officers, following the battle for the Tabqa air base in Raqqa, Syria. (AP Photo/Raqqa Media Center of the Islamic State group, File) FILE - In this July 17, 2017 file photo, Smoke rises from a coalition airstrike which attacked an Islamic State position, on the front line on the western side of Raqqa, northeast Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - In this file photo posted online on March 22, 2015, by the Islamic State group, shows the ruins of historic Qasr al-Banat, or Girls' Palace, in modern day Raqqa city in northern Syria. (Islamic State media via AP, File) FILE - In this Friday, July 28, 2017 file photo, Kurdish citizens pray over their relative's grave who was killed while fighting against Islamic State militants in Raqqa, at a cemetery in Kobani, Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - in this Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2014 file image posted by the Raqqa Media Center, which monitors events in territory controlled by Islamic State militants with the permission of the extremist group, shows militants with a captured pilot, Mu'ath Al-Kaseasbeh, wearing a white shirt, in Raqqa, Syria. (Raqqa Media Center via AP, File) South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem enjoyed a large reelection margin as she continued to angle for national prominence from her small state. The large win seemed to be proof of the popularity of her hands-off approach to pandemic restrictions, but as she enters her second term, she will face challenges. Noem is looking to enact a historic tax cut and fend off attempts to soften the states abortion ban. But she will be working with Republicans in a Legislature that has not always been on board with the governor. Higher spending across the board drove Johnson & Johnson's third-quarter profit down 12 percent, despite a big sales jump fueled by recent acquisitions, hot new cancer drugs and strong sales of other key medicines. However, the health care giant easily topped Wall Street expectations. With momentum in product sales across all three business segments, the Band-Aid maker boosted its financial forecast for the third time this year. Shares rose 2.2 percent, or $3.03, to $139.14 in late-morning trading. FILE - In this July 16, 2012 file photo, Johnson & Johnson products are displayed in Orlando, Fla. Johnson & Johnson reports earnings, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/John Raoux, File) "This was a strong quarter for Johnson & Johnson," Edward Jones analyst Ashtyn Evans wrote Tuesday to investors, adding that its strong balance sheet should enable more product acquisitions. J&J's biggest ever, $30 billion to buy Swiss biopharmaceutical company Actelion in June, added $670 million to the quarter's sales of Actelion's drugs for dangerously high blood pressure in the lungs. That also gave J&J a sixth disease focus area, along with drugs for cancer, infectious diseases and immune, neurological and cardiovascular disorders. Sales of prescription medicines soared 15.4 percent to $9.7 billion, boosted by blood cancer drug Imbruvica, Darzalex for multiple myeloma, blood thinner Xarelto and immune disorder drug Stelara. Revenue from some older drugs declined amid pressure for lower prices and increased competition. But J&J said it's scrapped two experimental drugs it recently touted as future blockbusters. As expected, J&J threw in the towel on rheumatoid arthritis drug sirukumab due to disappointing testing results, including nearly three dozen patient deaths, and dim prospects versus already-approved rivals. J&J also stopped its late-stage patient study of talacotuzumab in leukemia, due to a poor risk-benefit balance. Sales of consumer health products such as Tylenol and Neutrogena skin care rose 2.9 percent, to $3.4 billion, and sales of Acuvue contact lenses and other medical devices jumped 7.1 percent, to $6.6 billion. Device sales were boosted $291 million by this year's acquisition of Abbott Medical Optics, which sells products for Lasik and eye cataract surgery. J&J said the hurricanes that recently hit U.S. coastal areas and Puerto Rico, where it has six factories, forced surgery cancellations for days, reducing revenue minimally, but haven't disrupted product supplies. However, the Puerto Rico factories are only partially running, on generators. The New Brunswick, New Jersey, company reported total sales of $19.7 billion, up from $17.8 billion in 2016's third quarter. That exceeded analyst forecasts for $19.28 billion. J&J reported net income of $3.76 billion, or $1.37 per share, down from $4.27 billion, or $1.53 per share, a year earlier. Adjusted for one-time costs, the company posted earnings of $1.90 per share, topping analysts' forecasts for $1.80 per share. Johnson & Johnson now expects full-year earnings ranging from $7.25 to $7.30 per share, on revenue of $76.1 billion to $76.5 billion. In August, it forecast full-year earnings of $7.12 to $7.22 per share and revenue of $75.8 billion to $76.1 billion. Wall Street has been projecting full-year earnings of $7.18 per share, according to a poll by FactSet. ___ Follow Linda A. Johnson at https://twitter.com/LindaJ_onPharma NASHUA, N.H. (AP) - A refugee from Myanmar jailed in New Hampshire on sexual assault charges doesn't speak English and hasn't been able to communicate with lawyers or corrections staff, his attorney said. Mohammod Rafique and his family fled persecution in their native country, and his experiences have left him extremely fearful of law enforcement, attorney Amanda Henderson said, according to the Telegraph of Nashua . A hearing last week had to be continued after the 27-year-old Rafique collapsed in the courtroom. Rafique has been jailed in Nashua since Sept. 19 on three counts of felonious sexual assault and three counts of attempted felonious sexual assault. Authorities say he grabbed, tried to kiss and improperly touched four girls, ages 7 to 12. There was no record of whether he entered a plea. Henderson asked a judge to change his $15,000 cash bail, but a prosecutor disagreed, saying he was a flight risk. A judge on Monday ordered the jail to get an interpreter for Rafique to help him seek medical treatment, but the bail motion was denied. "He has constant nightmares . suffers debilitating anxiety," Henderson said. "Just thinking about returning to jail caused him so much anxiety and fear that he became unconscious." Rafique's family went to Thailand with other members of the Rohingya community in hopes of starting a new life. Rafique was captured and held for a year before he eventually resettled in the U.S. ___ Information from: The Telegraph, http://www.nashuatelegraph.com HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) - A stick was used to tightly twist a cord from a window blind around the neck of a 21-year-old woman found strangled and dumped in the drive-thru lane of a Houston Dairy Queen in 1992. Maria del Carmen Estrada's slaying went unsolved for more than a decade until a tiny particle collected from beneath her fingernail matched the DNA of convicted sex offender Anthony Allen Shore. Shore, 55, whose signature killing method prompted him to be dubbed Houston's "Tourniquet Killer," was set for lethal injection Wednesday evening for her murder. This photo provided by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice shows Anthony Shore. The convicted sex offender who became known as Houston's "Tourniquet Killer" because of the way he strangled his multiple victims is set for execution Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017. Shore faces lethal injection for the 1992 slaying of a 21-year-old woman who is one of four females, including a 9-year-old, Shore has confessed to killing. (Texas Department of Criminal Justice via AP) He'd be the seventh Texas inmate executed this year. He'd also be the 21st prisoner put to death nationally, one more than the total number carried out in the U.S. in 2016. When police arrested Shore, who was on probation for his 1998 conviction for sexually assaulting two relatives, he confessed to killing Estrada and three others, including a 9-year-old and two teenage girls. All were Hispanic. Three had been sexually assaulted. "There were voices in my head that I was going to have her, regardless, to possess her in some way," Shore, a former tow truck driver, phone company repairman and part-time musician, told detectives about Estrada. She was walking to work about 6:30 a.m. on April 16, 1992, when he offered her a ride that she accepted. It wasn't until five years after Shore's DNA went into a state database following his 1998 sexual assault conviction that the match to Estrada's death was made. At his trial in 2004, with the confession and DNA results in evidence, a jury convicted him of capital murder. The next day, Shore's lawyers told jurors that against their judgment and advice, their client wanted it known he wanted the death penalty. Jurors then heard four days of prosecution evidence about the three other slayings and heard from three women who testified he raped them. The trial judge ultimately asked Shore directly if his lawyers' statements about him wanting the death penalty were accurate. Shore replied: "This is very accurate." His Harris County jury decided he should die. In appeals, lawyers appointed for Shore argued he suffered from brain damage early in life that his trial attorneys didn't discover and the brain injury affected his decision about wanting the death penalty. A federal appeals court earlier this year turned down his appeal and two weeks ago the U.S. Supreme Court refused to review his case. The six-member Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles unanimously rejected a clemency petition Monday. "I would describe Anthony's demeanor as that of any condemned man, that even though his life is severely altered by being in prison, especially on death row, he would rather have that than death," Knox Nunnally, one of Shore's attorneys, said. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg has described Shore as a "true serial killer" who terrorized young Hispanic females in the Houston area for years. Besides Estrada, Shore confessed to the slayings of Laurie Tremblay, 15, found beside a trash bin outside a Houston restaurant in 1986; Diana Rebollar, 9, abducted while walking to a neighborhood grocery store in 1994; and Dana Sanchez, 16, who disappeared in 1995 while hitchhiking to her boyfriend's home in Houston. ___ Sign up for the AP's weekly newsletter showcasing our best reporting from the Midwest and Texas: -http://apne.ws/2u1RMfv BEIRUT (AP) - A timeline of events in the northern Syrian city of Raqqa, captured by U.S.-backed Syrian forces from the Islamic State group on Tuesday: 2011 March - Protests break out in different parts of Syria demanding democratic reforms following Arab Spring protests in Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen, Libya and Bahrain that removed some Arab leaders who had been in power for decades. FILE - In this undated file image, posted on June 30, 2014, by the Raqqa Media Center of the Islamic State group, a Syrian opposition group, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, fighters from the Islamic State group parade in Raqqa, north Syria. (Raqqa Media Center via AP, File) November - President Bashar Assad, who at the time was facing the most serious threat to his family's four-decade rule of Syria, heads to Raqqa where he attends Eid al-Adha prayers at the Al-Nour Mosque, meeting with local tribesmen in an attempt to show confidence and popularity. His visit was the first by a Syrian president to the city in decades. 2012 March - The largest anti-government protests in the city to date are held on the anniversary of the uprising in Syria. The protests are met with a heavy government crackdown that left over a dozen killed, sowing the seeds of the first armed group to emanate from the city. The insurgents retreat to the countryside of Raqqa amid clashes with government forces. 2013 February - Armed groups, including al-Qaida's branch in Syria, seize control of the two major water dams in the Raqqa province. This strengthens their position, facilitating their attack on the city a month later. Without much fighting, Raqqa becomes the first city to fall to insurgent groups in what has become an armed rebellion against the central government. 2014 January - Raqqa becomes the first city in Syria under full control of IS after the extremist group forces all other insurgents from the city. Its fall to IS was preceded with a campaign of attacks from the countryside, arrests of activists and kidnapping of foreigners, including Italian Priest Father Paolo, who remains missing. June - IS captures Mosul, Iraqi's second-largest city, and pushes south as Iraqi military forces crumble, eventually capturing Saddam Hussein's hometown of Tikrit and reaching the outskirts of Baghdad. June 29 - The militant group renames itself the Islamic State and declares the establishment of a "caliphate" in territories under its control in Iraq and Syria. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is declared the caliph. The group targets churches and Muslim shrines, and asks Christians to either convert or pay taxes. Sept. 22 - The U.S.-led coalition begins an aerial campaign against IS in Syria. August - IS releases a video showing a fighter beheading James Foley on the outskirts of Raqqa. The American journalist was kidnapped in Syria in 2012. 2015 January - 1st Lt. Muath Al-Kaseasbeh, 26, a captured Jordanian pilot, is burned alive by an IS fighter in Raqqa. The militant group filmed the burning in a chilling message to its opponents. Al-Kaseasbeh was captured a month earlier when his Jordanian F-16 crashed near Raqqa. 2016 Nov. 5 - The US-backed and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces launch the first of five phases to expel IS from Raqqa, calling it operation Euphrates Wrath. The operation aims to encircle Raqqa city before retaking it. 2017 May 10 - The strategic Tabqa dam falls to the U.S.-backed SDF, after weeks of fighting around it and following a major airlift operation that brought SDF fighters and their U.S. advisers to the area. The fall of the dam facilitated the subsequent attack on the heavily fortified city of Raqqa, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. June 6 - SDF fighters begin an attack on the city from three sides under the cover of airstrikes by the U.S.-led coalition. June 13 - IS chief spokesman Abu al-Hassan al-Muhajer releases an audio, calling on the group's fighters to defend their positions in Iraq and Syria. June 16 - Russia announces it may have killed IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in an airstrike targeting a meeting of IS leaders just outside Raqqa, but U.S. officials say there is no definitive proof of his death. Sept. 20 - SDF fighters say the battle to fully control Raqqa is in its final stages, with nearly 85 percent of the city under their control. Oct. 15 - SDF fighters launch final operation to retake the last IS-held pocket of the city after some 275 militants and their family members surrender. Oct. 16 - Raqqa's infamous public square, where IS used to perform beheadings, is captured by the SDF. Oct. 17 - SDF takes full control of the city of Raqqa after capturing its main hospital and local stadium, the last remaining IS holdouts, in a critical blow to the Islamic State group's self-declared caliphate. FILE - In this July 27, 2017 file photo, A U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces fighter runs in front of a damaged building as he crosses a street on the front line, in Raqqa, Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - In this July 27, 2017 file photo, black smoke rises from Raqqa city where U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces fighters battle against the Islamic State militants, in Raqqa, northeast Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - In this July 27, 2017 file photo, A U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces sniper, lies on the ground as he checks his sniper rifles, on the front line, in Raqqa city, northeast Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - In this July 22, 2017 file photo, U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters dance before a battle against Islamic state group militants, in Raqqa, northeast Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) FILE - In this July 19, 2017 file photo, a general view of a refugee camp where Syrian displaced people who fled with their families the battle between U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces and the Islamic State militants from Raqqa and other cities gather, in Ain Issa town, northeast Syria. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla, File) SIMPSONVILLE, S.C. (AP) - A deputy in South Carolina fatally shot a man who came out from a building with a woman and a gun and said he was holding her hostage, authorities said. Greenville County deputies came to a home near Simpsonville around 4:45 p.m. Monday to check on an alarm call and found a man standing outside a building in the home's backyard, sheriff's Sgt. Ryan Flood said. "The deputies challenged him. The man then ran back inside that building and yelled that he had a hostage," Flood said at a news conference. The man was shot and killed by at least one officer when he came back out of the building holding a gun with a woman beside him, Flood said. James Michael Chappell, 32, died at the scene, the Greenville County Coroner's Office said. The woman and the officers were not hurt, Flood said. Flood would not say if there were any attempts to negotiate with Chappell. "(Deputies) did challenge him," Flood said. "As far as how long that took place, it is under investigation." Chappell was white. The race of the deputy wasn't available Tuesday morning. The State Law Enforcement Division is investigating as is standard in most shootings involving police officers in South Carolina. BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) - A Connecticut barber who was fatally shot in his shop while trying to subdue a gunman is being called a hero for protecting customers, including a young boy whose hair he had just cut. Deon Rodney was working at the Just Right Cutz barbershop in Bridgeport on Saturday evening when the gunman chased another man into the shop. Justin Riley, owner of the barbershop, told the Connecticut Post that Rodney punched and tackled the gunman and the weapon went off during the struggle. Riley said the 32-year-old Rodney had a son about the boy's age and had an intense dislike for bullies. "He saved everyone in the barbershop," Riley said. "There were five customers in the barbershop at the time, including this little boy. Deon had finished his haircut and the boy was getting ready to go outside when the gunman came in. He just punched and tackled the gunman to the ground. They had a scuffle and he got shot." Rodney died at a hospital several hours after being shot in the abdomen. He was the city's 22nd homicide victim of the year. "He not only wanted to protect the man seeking refuge in the barbershop, but his customers as well," said Capt. Roderick Porter, of Bridgeport police. "It's really tragic." The shooter remains at large. Police said they are following some good leads and hope to make an arrest soon. The suspect was described as a man dressed in black who was wearing a black ski mask. Authorities are withholding the name of the man who was chased into the barbershop by the gunman. It's not clear why he was targeted. People placed lit candles in glass jars in front of the barbershop after the shooting and spelled out "Deon" with smaller, round candles to pay tribute to Rodney. Riley said he wanted to turn over the barbershop to Rodney someday. "He's dead because of these people running around with guns," he said. "It's just gotten crazy in this city." ___ Information from: Connecticut Post, http://www.connpost.com WASHINGTON (AP) - Two Chinese nationals have been indicted on charges they manufactured tons of fentanyl and other powerful narcotics that were then peddled in the United States, killing at least four people and seriously injuring five others, Justice Department officials announced Tuesday. Authorities said the men controlled one of the most prolific international drug-trafficking organizations, but with no extradition treaty with China, the chances are slim they will ever be brought to the U.S. to face the charges. The men, who are not in custody, are accused of separately running chemical labs in China that produced the drug and other illegal opioids for sale online to Americans who were often unaware of its potency and susceptible to overdose. At least 21 other people were also indicted on charges they trafficked the drugs across the U.S. and Canada, often through the U.S. mail. Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Administrator Robert Patterson, center, accompanied by Royal Canadian Mounted Police Assistant Commissioner Joanne Grace Crampton, left, and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, right, speaks at a news conference at the Justice Department in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, to announce the indictments of two Chinese fentanyl trackers in the fight against opiate substances from entering the United States. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) The announcement comes as the Trump administration suffered a setback in its efforts to call attention to the nation's drug crisis. Its nominee to be the nation's drug czar withdrew Tuesday from consideration following reports that he played a key role in weakening the federal government's authority to stop companies from distributing opioids. It also comes amid growing pressure on President Donald Trump to fulfill his pledge to declare the nation's opioid epidemic a "national emergency," as a commission he's convened on the subject has urged him to do. An initial report from the commission in July noted that the approximate 142 deaths each day from drug overdoses mean the death toll is "equal to September 11th every three weeks." A sign of White House interest in the issue, presidential counselor Kellyanne Conway quietly attended Tuesday's news conference at the Justice Department. Robert W. Patterson, acting administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, said the Chinese case represents "one of the most significant drug threats facing the country" because they were able to produce a wide array of synthetic drugs and hide their tracks with web-based sales, international shipments and digital currencies like bitcoin. The Chinese men indicted were Xiaobang Yan, 40, and Jian Zhang, 38, who worked separately but similarly, authorities said. Yan, who operated at least two chemical plants in China that were capable of producing tons of fentanyl, would monitor drug legislation and law enforcement actions in the U.S., changing the chemical structure of his drugs to avoid prosecution, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein said. A 2013 traffic stop in Mississippi unearthed a domestic drug ring linked to Yan. Zhang, along with five Canadians, two people from Florida and New Jersey man, were indicted in North Dakota for conspiracy to import the drugs from Canada and China. Prosecutors say Zhang ran at least four labs and sold the drug to American customers online. Investigators became aware of him after police officers responded to a deadly overdose in Grand Forks, North Dakota and traced the supply chain, officials said. Rosenstein, who discussed the problem with Chinese officials last week during a high-level dialogue on law enforcement and cybersecurity, would not say whether the labs have been shut down. He said he was hopeful Chinese authorities would hold the men accountable. Federal authorities are increasingly warning of the dangers of fentanyl, which can be lethal even in small amounts and is often laced with other dangerous drugs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that more than 20,000 Americans were killed by the drug and its analogues in 2016, and the number is rising, Rosenstein said. TULSA, Okla. (AP) - The former mayor of Tulsa, Oklahoma, is suing an insurance company and broker because she says the $4 million she received for a lost blue diamond ring isn't enough. The Tulsa World reports that Kathy Taylor's federal lawsuit filed in Tulsa seeks more than $75,000. It alleges AIG Property Casualty Co. paid $4 million for loss of the ring her husband gave her, but hasn't covered the ring's full value. The insurance broker, Integro USA Inc., filed a motion to dismiss the case in which it says Taylor and her husband rejected a policy that would have covered any increase in the ring's value. Neither Taylor nor attorneys for the companies returned the newspaper's phone calls seeking comment. Taylor lost the 5-carat blue diamond ring in California wine country, according to the lawsuit. "While attending a cooking class, (Taylor) went to wash her hands," her petition states. She removed her ring and did not realize that she had forgotten to put it back on her finger, it says. Taylor sent an email to the Meadowood Napa Valley resort staff on Nov. 6 that says she believes someone took the ring after she removed it from her finger during the cooking class. "When I returned to my room and began getting ready for croquet and went to put on my jewelry - I immediately realized I had left the ring," the email says. Integro alleges in its motion to dismiss the lawsuit that Taylor's negligence claim "cherry-picks from and ignores the indisputable documents received or authored" by Taylor that undercut her claim. ___ Information from: Tulsa World, http://www.tulsaworld.com KIEV, Ukraine (AP) - Several thousand government protesters rallied outside Ukraine's parliament Tuesday and some urged President Petro Poroshenko to step down. Former Georgian president Mikhail Saakashvili, who leads a Ukrainian opposition party, said at the rally that Poroshenko was responsible for "poverty and humiliation." "I'm calling on the people of Kiev to join us and demand just one thing: that Poroshenko think about his resignation," Saakashvili said. A protester wearing President Petro Poroshenko's mask, with the writing 'Impeachment' on his breast, attends a rally outside the Ukrainian parliament in Kiev, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017.(AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky) Protest organizers are demanding changes to Ukraine's election laws to encourage competition. They also want an anti-corruption high court established and say lawmakers should be stripped of immunity from criminal prosecution. The crowd of protesters that numbered more than 3,000 in the morning dwindled to a few hundred in the late afternoon. Some of those remaining set up tents in front of the parliament building and vowed to continue protesting until the demands are met. Saakashvili poses a political challenge to Poroshenko, who appointed him as governor of Ukraine's Odessa region after Saakashvili was termed out of office in Georgia. They since have had a falling out. The president revoked Saakashvili's citizenship in July. Saakashvili forced his way across Ukraine's border with Poland last month. Saakashvili has teamed up with former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and other opposition groups, raising the heat on Poroshenko. Protesters shout slogans during a rally outside the Ukrainian parliament in Kiev, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. At the protest former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili called on Ukraine's President Poroshenko to resign.(AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky) Former Georgian President and former Ukraine official, Mikheil Saakashvili speaks to his supporters during a rally outside the Ukrainian parliament in Kiev, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. Saakashvili called on the Ukraine's President Poroshenko to resign.(AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky) Supporters listen to former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili during a rally outside the Ukrainian parliament in Kiev, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. Saakashvili called on Ukraine's President Poroshenko to resign.(AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky) WASHINGTON (AP) - The imminent fall of the Islamic State's de facto capital leaves America a multitude of tasks to restore stability in the Middle East, starting with pockets of remaining IS resistance in Syria and Iraq. Then there are the more deeply rooted problems, not fixable by guns or bombs, that allowed extremism to rise and flourish: Syria's civil war and Iraq's intractable political, religious and ethnic disputes, which turned violent again this week. The challenge is more than the U.S. can handle alone. It likely will keep some troops in Iraq for years to come to train and advise the army, police and other members of security forces that imploded when IS fighters swept across the Syrian border and captured Mosul in June 2014. This frame grab from video released Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 and provided by Hawar News Agency, a Syrian Kurdish activist-run media group, shows fighters from the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) celebrating their victory in Raqqa, Syria. U.S.-backed Syrian forces liberated the city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants on Tuesday, a senior commander for the force said, adding that clearing operations were underway to remove land mines left behind and search for the extremist group's sleeper cells. (Hawar News Agency via AP) The militants also have footholds in Afghanistan and beyond. On Monday, the Pentagon said it used drone aircraft to strike two IS training camps in Yemen, killing dozens. Syria has been fertile ground for IS, which capitalized on the civil war to expel al-Qaida and more moderate opposition fighters from Raqqa almost four years ago, making the city the capital of its self-declared "caliphate." The Obama administration sought to stay out of the civil war even as it claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. The Trump administration has largely stayed on the sidelines of attempts, now led by Russia and Iran, to organize local cease-fires and create so-called "de-escalation zones," with the exception of one such area near the Israeli and Jordanian borders. But it has been generally supportive of U.N.-led efforts to resurrect stalled political talks aimed at forging a transitional administration. On the ground in Syria, the administration has redefined America's priorities to focus primarily on securing military gains and providing immediate reconstruction assistance to restore critical infrastructure and temporary governance. Heather Nauert, the State Department spokesperson, said that once Raqqa is fully liberated the U.S. and its coalition partners will focus on helping to remove dangers posed by unexploded bombs in the area. "Eventually, we would get to the point where we would start to remove some of the rubble, get to the point where we would get the electricity going once again, providing clean water -- the same types of things that the U.S. and coalition partners were able to do in Mosul," she said. The collapse of IS defenses in Raqqa, after four months of fighting, does not necessarily equate to the collapse of the militant group. The U.S. military on Tuesday estimated 6,500 IS fighters remain in eastern Syria and western Iraq, many concentrated along the Euphrates River valley straddling the border. Even if they no longer control significant territory, they pose an insurgent threat in both countries and an ideological threat globally. Col. Ryan S. Dillon, a spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition fighting IS in Syria and Iraq, told reporters at the Pentagon that Raqqa is about 90 percent freed, but more fighting will be required to fully liberate the city. As evidence of remaining risks, he said the Syrian commander of a so-called Raqqa Internal Security Force, whose task will be to keep order in the city once the last IS fighters have been ousted, was killed Monday by an improvised bomb. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said last week that IS is "close to being crushed." He also cautioned against assuming an easy end game, likening the problem to squeezing a tightly packed snowball. "You can compact them and compact them, and eventually it shatters," meaning IS remnants "can show up in other places." He was speaking about four soldiers killed this month in the African nation of Niger, possibly by an IS affiliate. Planning for some of the major attacks in Europe in recent years was traced back to Raqqa. These include the 2015 Paris attacks, which killed 130 people, and the 2016 suicide attacks on the Brussels airport and subway, which killed 32. The breadth of the problem was underlined by Britain's chief of domestic intelligence, who said in London that the Islamist extremist threat facing his country has accelerated at an alarming pace and is worse now than at any time in his 34-year career. MI5 Director General Andrew Parker said the risk is further heightened by the possible return to Britain of people who had joined IS in Syria and Iraq. "That threat is multi-dimensional, evolving rapidly, and operating at a scale and pace we've not seen before," he said. In Iraq, optimism created by a series of relatively swift victories by Iraqi security forces was punctured by renewed conflict between the central government in Baghdad and the semi-autonomous Kurdish regional government, whose peshmerga militia fighters had taken control of the disputed city of Kirkuk after IS took Mosul in 2014. The Kurds had included disputed areas, including Kirkuk, in a non-binding referendum last month in which more than 90 percent of voters favored independence. The Iraqi government, as well as Turkey and Iran, which border the land-locked Kurdish region, rejected the vote. Baghdad has spent the last three years demanding the Kurds return Kirkuk to federal control, and appeared to be on the verge of taking military action after the referendum. Sporadic clashes broke out as Iraqi forces moved toward Kirkuk on Monday, but within hours Kurdish forces had withdrawn from the city's airport, an important military base and nearby oil fields. ___ AP Diplomatic writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report. In this picture taken on Monday Oct. 16, 2017 and provided by The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish forces outlet that is consistent with independent AP reporting, shows Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters, flash victory signs at the front line where they battle against the Islamic State militants, in Raqqa, Syria. The U.S-backed Syrian forces battling the Islamic State group in Syria say Raqqa's national hospital, one of the militants' last holdouts in city has been captured. (Syrian Democratic Forces, via AP) WARSAW, Poland (AP) - A Polish film company said Tuesday that Oscar-winning director Roman Polanski has traveled to Poland to appear in a documentary about his early life during the Holocaust and after the war in Poland. The KRK Film company said that Polanski was in Krakow to see the site of the former ghetto where he was held as a child by the German Nazis. His mother was taken from there to her death at Auschwitz, and later his father made him flee the ghetto. The 84-year-old director also visited the village of Wysoka, where he was in hiding after fleeing the Krakow ghetto. New York photographer Ryszard Horowitz, a friend of Polanski's since they met as boys in the ghetto, accompanied him. It wasn't clear when the documentary would be released. FILE - In this May 27, 2017 photo, director Roman Polanski appears at the photo call for the film, "Based On A True Story," at the 70th international film festival, Cannes, southern France. A film company said Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, Oscar-winning director Roman Polanski is in Poland to appear in a documentary about his early life. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File) It was Polanski's first visit to Poland since the country's Supreme Court refused last year to have him extradited to the U.S. to be sentenced in a 1977 unlawful sex case involving a 13-year-old victim. Since he fled the U.S., Polanski mostly has lived in Paris, where he was born. The director fled in 1978 on the eve of sentencing when the now-deceased judge in the case suggested in private remarks that he would renege on a plea bargain and sentencing agreement. His travels have since been restricted to France as well as to Poland and Switzerland, where authorities have rejected U.S. requests for his extradition. Polanski won an Academy Award for best director for his 2002 film "The Pianist" and was nominated for 1974's "Chinatown" and 1979's "Tess." WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he is likely to make his selection for the next Federal Reserve chairman from five candidates, a group that includes current Chair Janet Yellen. "I would say within those five, you'll probably get the answer," he said when asked by a reporter if he is considering other candidates. Before Trump met with reporters in the Rose Garden, a White House official speaking on condition of anonymity said that the five finalists are Yellen, current Fed board member Jerome Powell, National Economic Council director Gary Cohn, former Fed board member Kevin Warsh and Stanford University economist John Taylor. Trump is expected to announce his decision before he leaves Nov. 3 for a trip to Asia. "Honestly, I like them all," Trump said when asked if he had a favorite. "I do. I have a great respect for all of them. But I will make a decision over the next very short period of time." The president is scheduled to interview Yellen on Thursday. After that meeting, he will have met and discussed the job with all five candidates. Yellen's four-year term as chairman ends on Feb. 3. Trump criticized Yellen on the campaign trail last year, saying she was too political and was keeping interest rates low to favor Democrats. But since taking office, Trump has been complimentary, saying he and Yellen both favor low interest rates and that she has done a good job at the central bank. The president met Warsh, who served on the Fed board during the 2008 financial crisis, and Powell, the only Republican currently on the board, late last month. Trump interviewed Taylor, the author of a key rule on monetary policy, last week. Cohn, who spent 26 years at Goldman Sachs before joining the Trump administration this year, had at one time been considered a front-runner for the Fed job. But his prospects appear to have dimmed after he made comments critical of Trump's response to racially motivated protests in Charlottesville, Virginia, in August. ___ AP White House reporter Darlene Superville contributed to this report. ROME (AP) - Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese journalist killed by a bomb that blew up her car, was fearless and formidable, colleagues and admirers recall. She spared no vested interest, including the dominant political parties, from her investigations of corruption in her native island nation. Her reporting including examinations of leaked documents in the Panama Papers scandal. Caruana Galizia, 53, died Monday as she drove near her home on Malta. Two weeks before, she told police she'd received threats. This undated photo shows Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese investigative journalist who exposed her island nation's links with the so-called Panama Papers. The Maltese reporter who was killed on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 by a car bombing in Malta spared no vested interest in her crusade to root out corruption. (The Malta Independent via AP) Journalism colleagues said Tuesday that the veteran reporter's resolve to root out wrongdoing only sharpened after someone put flaming tires outside her house more than a decade ago in an apparent attempt to burn it down. "Now what was many times foretold, threatened, wished for by people who despised her has finally happened," read an editorial in The Malta Independent, a daily newspaper for which Caruana Galizia wrote twice weekly. In Malta, politics is a passion akin to soccer in other countries. Many residents grow up fiercely loyal to one of the two main political parties, the socialist Labor and conservative Nationalist parties. Caruana Galizia relentlessly investigated Joseph Muscat, a politician who is now Labor's prime minister. More recently, she set her sights on the new Nationalist party and opposition leader, Adrian Delia. In deference to her death, Delia dropped libel lawsuits he had pending against Caruana Galizia. Not infrequently after she unearthed shady doings by politicians, readers worried about her safety. Some suggested crowd-funding measures for her security, "Daphne, please, please be careful and protect yourself and your family," a follower of "Running Commentary," the blog Caruana Galizia launched in 2008, pleaded after she posted a piece about a government minister from Azerbaijan. Her article alleged the minister had several accounts at a Malta bank under the names of various companies. The same blog post identified the bank's owner as an Iranian with no banking experience before he applied for a banking license. Caruana Galizia reported that a camera had captured the man rushing out of the bank one night carrying bags she presumed were full of compromising documents. Caruana Galizia studied at Catholic schools before she started working as a journalist in 1987. Besides writing for The Malta Independent, she was a columnist for The Sunday Times in the early 1990s. She also edited a Taste and Flair, a food and lifestyles magazine. She showed solidarity with other journalists under threat. Sicilian reporter Paolo Borrometi, threatened by the Italian island's Mafia, said that in 2014 she wrote to him saying: "Paolo, go on, our countries need free journalism." As for the police and magistrates probe of her own slaying, "Daphne herself would probably not expect too much from them," the Independent's editorial said. Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband, Peter Caruana Galizia, and three sons, Andrew, Paul and Matthew. Her youngest also is an investigative journalist who worked with the consortium of journalists awarded the Pulitzer Prize for the Panama Papers leaks. ___ D'Emilio reported from Rome. ___ Frances D'Emilio is on twitter at www.twitter.com Candles, notes and paper cuttings lie next to the Love Monument in St. Julian, Malta, Tuesday Oct. 17, 2017 the day after the killing of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers, was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) People take part in a vigil in Castile square, outside the office of the prime minister in Malta to commemorate journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers, was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) Police officers patrol during a vigil to commemorate journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia,in Castile square, outside the office of the prime minister in Malta, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers, was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) Candles, notes and paper cuttings lie next to the Love Monument in St. Julian, Malta, Tuesday Oct. 17, 2017 the day after the killing of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) A woman reads the headlines of a newspaper as candles, notes and paper cuttings are put next to the Love Monument in St. Julian, Malta, Tuesday Oct. 17, 2017 the day after the killing of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) This photo taken on April 4, 2016 shows Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Maltese investigative journalist who exposed her island nation's links with the so-called Panama Papers. Galizia was killed on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, when a bomb destroyed her car as she was driving near her home in Mosta, a town outside Valletta, Malta's capital. (AP Photo/Jon Borg) This undated photo made available Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 shows Daphne Caruana Galizia, right, a Maltese investigative journalist who exposed her island nation's links with the so-called Panama Papers. Galizia was killed on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, when a bomb destroyed her car as she was driving near her home in Mosta, a town outside Valletta, Malta's capital, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. (The Malta Independent via AP) Two women hug each other during a protest in front of Valletta's Law Courts, Malta, Tuesday Oct. 17, 2017. Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) A woman holds a container with a candle and a photo of the slain journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, during a demonstration in front of Valletta's Law Court, Malta, Tuesday Oct. 17, 2017. The Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) Demonstrators show the victory sign as the gather in front of Valletta's Law Courts, Malta, Tuesday Oct. 17, 2017 the day after the killing of the journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car. (AP Photo/ Rene Rossignaud) HONOLULU (AP) - The Latest on a judge in Hawaii blocking the latest version of President Donald Trump's travel ban (all times local): 10:40 a.m. The White House is blasting a federal judge's decision to block the Trump administration from enforcing the latest version its travel ban, calling the order "dangerously flawed." FILE - In this June 30, 2017 file photo, Hawaii Attorney General Douglas Chin speaks at a news conference in Honolulu about President Donald Donald Trump's travel ban. On Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 a federal judge in Hawaii blocked the Trump administration from enforcing its latest travel ban, just hours before it was set to take effect. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the policy from taking effect Wednesday. (AP Photo/Caleb Jones, File) White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders says the Hawaii decision "undercuts the president's efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States." In a separate statement, Justice Department spokesman Ian Prior says it will appeal the ruling "in an expeditious manner." The restrictions had been set to go into effect early Wednesday. They were to apply to citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen - and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. Sanders says the restrictions are "vital" to ensuring foreign nations comply with U.S. security standards. ___ 9:50 a.m. Hawaii's attorney general says the state is ready to defend against what he calls a discriminatory travel ban by the Trump administration. Douglas Chin is responding to a U.S. judge's ruling Tuesday that blocks the federal government from enforcing the policy. Chin has been challenging President Donald Trump's travel bans since February. The state says the updated ban is a continuation of Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States." He says it's the third time Hawaii has gone to court to stop Trump from enforcing a ban that discriminates against people based on their nation of origin or religion. The Trump administration's most recent restrictions affect citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen - and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. It was supposed to take effect early Wednesday. ___ 9 a.m. A judge in Hawaii has blocked the latest version of the Trump administration travel ban just hours before it was set to take effect. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson on Tuesday granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the federal government from enforcing the policy. It was supposed to take effect at midnight EDT Wednesday. The Trump administration's most recent restrictions, which affect citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen - and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. Hawaii argues the updated ban is a continuation of President Donald Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States." Other courts are weighing challenges to the policy. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions in the president's latest proclamation. CHICAGO (AP) - A former Chicago police detective who was ordered by a judge to testify in a decades-old homicide investigation is refusing to answer questions. The case involves allegations Reynaldo Guevara beat two men into confessing to a 1998 double murder they say they didn't commit. Guevara on Tuesday invoked his constitutional right against self-incrimination in response to two questions from the judge. He also said he didn't remember anything about the investigation or if he testified against the two men. The judge ordered Guevara to testify after prosecutors granted him immunity. Guevara's decision to take the 5th Amendment could end with the judge holding him in contempt and ordering him taken into custody. The judge said he'd hear from other witnesses and then call Guevara to the stand again Oct. 30. HONOLULU (AP) - A federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trump's latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor." It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by the president to be thwarted, in whole or in part, by the courts. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson issued the ruling after the ban on a set of mostly Muslim countries was challenged by the state of Hawaii, which warned that the restrictions would separate families and undermine the recruiting of diverse college students. FILE- In this June 30, 2017, file photo, critics of President Donald Trump's travel ban hold signs during a news conference in Honolulu. On Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 a federal judge in Hawaii blocked the Trump administration from enforcing its latest travel ban, just hours before it was set to take effect. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the policy from taking effect Wednesday. (AP Photo/Caleb Jones, File) White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the ruling "dangerously flawed" and said it "undercuts the president's efforts to keep the American people safe." The Justice Department said it will quickly appeal. At issue was a ban, announced in September and set to go into effect early Wednesday, on travelers from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, along with some Venezuelan government officials and their families. The Trump administration said the ban was based on an assessment of each country's security situation and willingness to share information with the U.S. Watson, appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling against Trump's previous ban. The latest version "plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation," Watson wrote. The judge's ruling applies only to the six Muslim-majority countries on the list. It does not affect the restrictions against North Korea or Venezuela, because Hawaii did not ask for that. "This is the third time Hawaii has gone to court to stop President Trump from issuing a travel ban that discriminates against people based on their nation of origin or religion," Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said in a statement. "Today is another victory for the rule of law." Hawaii argued the updated ban was a continuation of Trump's campaign call for a ban on Muslims, despite the addition of two countries without a Muslim majority. Watson noted that Hawaii had argued Trump did not back down from that call, listing in the ruling a series of June tweets "in which (Trump) complained about how the Justice Department had submitted a 'watered down, politically correct version' to the Supreme Court." Other courts that weighed the travel ban have cited Trump's comments about banning Muslims, including the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Virginia and a federal judge in Maryland. Watson also referred to a Trump campaign statement in his previous ruling. His Tuesday ruling said the new ban, like its predecessor, fails to show that nationality alone makes a person a greater security risk to the U.S. "The categorical restrictions on entire populations of men, women and children, based upon nationality, are a poor fit for the issues regarding the sharing of 'public-safety and terrorism-related information' that the president identifies," Watson wrote. He said the ban is inconsistent in the way some countries are included or left out. For example, Iraq failed to meet the security benchmark but was omitted from the ban. Somalia met the information-sharing benchmark but was included. "Judge Watson's ruling makes clear that we are a nation of laws, no matter what this administration may try to do," Hawaii's U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said in a statement. "There is a place here for peaceful immigrants from every corner of the world: Spain, Syria, Sudan, or Singapore. There is no place here for discrimination or xenophobia." Watson found fault with what sorts of visitors are barred. For instance, all tourists and business travelers from Libya are excluded from the U.S., but student visitors were allowed. The judge said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order blocking the ban should be extended. It comes as other courts weigh challenges to the ban. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland are challenging the order in front of the same federal judge in Seattle who struck down Trump's initial ban in January. That ban - aimed mostly at Muslim-majority countries - led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Trump revised the ban, Hawaii challenged that version, too, and Watson agreed it discriminated on the basis of nationality and religion. A subsequent U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate restrictions against Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and against all refugees. Hawaii then successfully challenged the government's definition of which relatives of people already living in the U.S. would be allowed into the country, and Watson ordered the list expanded. FILE - This Dec. 2015 file photo shows U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson in Honolulu. Watson on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, blocked the Trump administration from enforcing its latest travel ban, just hours before it was set to take effect. (George Lee /The Star-Advertiser via AP, File) FILE - In this June 30, 2017 file photo, Hawaii Attorney General Douglas Chin speaks at a news conference in Honolulu about President Donald Donald Trump's travel ban. On Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 a federal judge in Hawaii blocked the Trump administration from enforcing its latest travel ban, just hours before it was set to take effect. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the policy from taking effect Wednesday. (AP Photo/Caleb Jones, File) Hawaii Attorney General Douglas Chin speaks to the Associated Press about Hawaii's lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump's travel ban, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, in Honolulu. A federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trump's latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor." It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by the president to be thwarted, in whole or in part, by the courts. (AP Photo/Caleb Jones) Hawaii Attorney General Douglas Chin speaks to the Associated Press about Hawaii's lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump's travel ban, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, in Honolulu. A federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trump's latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor." It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by the president to be thwarted, in whole or in part, by the courts. (AP Photo/Caleb Jones) RENO, Nev. (AP) - A 26-year-old gunman convicted of killing two rival gang members in Sparks seven years ago has been sentenced to two life terms in prison without the possibility of parole. A Washoe County District Court jury convicted Luis Menendez-Cordero of the 2010 double-murder last week. A judge sentenced him on Tuesday. Authorities say Menendez-Cordero was a member of the Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS 13 gang. They say that following the shooting, fellow gang members helped him flee to California and then to El Salvador. He was arrested there in 2015 and extradited back to Nevada to face charges in the deaths of 19-year-old Kevin Melendez and 21-year-old Moises Vasquez Sanchez at a party in Sparks. WASHINGTON (AP) - Talks to rewrite the North American Free Trade Agreement have stalled over tough American demands, dashing hopes that a deal can be reached this year. A fourth round of negotiations between the U.S., Mexico and Canada ended in mutual exasperation Tuesday. Talks will continue next month in Mexico City and will spill over into next year. The negotiators had originally hoped to reach an agreement this year - before Mexico's presidential election and U.S. midterms turn up the political pressure in 2018. United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, center, with Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland, left, and Mexico's Secretary of Economy Ildefonso Guajardo Villarrea, right, speaks during the conclusion of the fourth round of negotiations for a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) President Donald Trump, who called NAFTA a job-killing "disaster" on the campaign trail, has threatened to withdraw from the 23-year-old pact if he can't get what he wants. Canada and Mexico are balking at America's demand that a revamped deal do something to reduce America's trade deficits. "We have seen no indication that our partners are willing to make any changes that will result in a rebalancing and a reduction in these huge trade deficits," U.S. Trade Rep. Robert Lighthizer said. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland countered that America's "unconventional" proposals would "turn back the clock" and warned against a "winner-take-all mindset." NAFTA ripped down most trade barriers between the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Trade surged within the NAFTA bloc, benefiting American farmers who export corn and other products. But many U.S. manufacturers moved production south of the border to take advantage of Mexico's low labor costs, then shipped goods back to the United States. The influx of imports swelled America's trade deficit with Mexico, which came to $62 billion last year. (The United States logged an $8 billion trade surplus with Canada in 2016). To cut the trade deficit with Mexico, the United States is demanding that more auto production be made in America before qualifying for NAFTA benefits. But companies have built complicated supply chains that straddle NAFTA borders, taking advantage of each country's strengths - such as cheap labor in Mexico and skilled workers and proximity to customers in the United States and Canada. Changing the rules, they say, would disrupt their operations. "These proposed rules would increase the cost of manufacturing and raise prices for consumers," said Ann Wilson, senior vice president for government affairs at the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association, which represents auto suppliers. "It would just make North America less competitive, and it would impose an indirect barrier to trade," said trade lawyer Miguel Noyola, a principal at Baker & McKenzie LLP. Lighthizer is also targeting a NAFTA provision that now allows companies to appeal to private tribunals when they object to decisions by the government of the country where they're investing - perhaps a costly environmental regulation. Those tribunals mean companies don't have to worry as much about the political risks - and account for the potential cost - when they invest in less-developed countries. Effectively, Lighthizer argues, they put "a thumb on the scale" in Mexico's favor. The U.S. wants to limit companies' ability to appeal government decisions under NAFTA. The U.S. is also proposing that the new NAFTA expire unless the countries agreed every few years to extend it. Critics say the so-called sunset clause would create too much uncertainty for businesses. "Who would want to make an investment if they don't know what is going to happen in five years?" says former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico James Jones, now chairman of Monarch Global Strategies. United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, left, with Mexico's Secretary of Economy Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal, right, speaks during the conclusion of the fourth round of negotiations for a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) Mexico's Secretary of Economy Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal, speaks during the conclusion of the fourth round of negotiations for a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland, speaks during the conclusion of the fourth round of negotiations for a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump's nominee to be the CIA's independent watchdog told Congress on Tuesday that he's never read the Senate's so-called torture report, an exhaustive, classified report of the agency's treatment of terror suspects after 9/11. Christopher Sharpley, who has been deputy inspector general at the CIA since July 2012, told the Senate intelligence committee that the classified disc containing the 7,000-page report was lost for a time and later found, but that he never took time to read the full document. The Senate intelligence committee spent years investigating the CIA's detention and harsh interrogation techniques on suspected terrorists captured by the United States after the Sept. 11, 2001, attack. The techniques authorized by the Bush administration included waterboarding. Interrogations were conducted in clandestine prisons around the world that were not in the jurisdiction of U.S. courts or the military justice system. Christopher R. Sharpley appears before the Senate Intelligence Committee to be confirmed as the CIA inspector general, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Democrats scolded Sharpley during his confirmation hearing, saying he should have read and learned from the report because the inspector general's job involves oversight of covert CIA activities. Committee members also quizzed him about his commitment to protecting whistleblowers who report waste, fraud and abuse at the agency and how they need to be protected from retaliation. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., read from a February document on the official letterhead of the Office of the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community that describes flaws in the way that retaliation cases are investigated. The document was disclosed by the Project on Government Oversight, which reported on Monday that Sharpley is named in three open whistleblower retaliation cases. Sharpley defended his record, saying he has never retaliated against anyone in the inspector general's office or at any other federal agency. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, commended him for being a productive inspector general, saying his office has conducted more than 100 audits and inspection reports and issued more than 340 recommendations in the past year to help improve the agency's efficiency and effectiveness. She also cited his work on countering insider threats from employees who have disclosed "devastating amounts" of classified information. Sharpley said his office has issued more than two dozen reports and made 64 recommendations addressing insider threats. The CIA has "done a lot on insider threats, but a lot more work needs to be done," he said. Democrats on the committee spent most of their time during the confirmation hearing questioning him about the torture report. "The point of distributing it to the departments was in the hope that they would read it - not look at it as some poison document - and learn from it," said Feinstein, who was chairman of the committee when it was released. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., noted that the inspector's job involves overseeing covert activities. "It seems to me that it's awfully hard to learn the potential lessons of that report, if it wasn't consumed and read and processed in your office," Heinrich said. Heinrich acknowledged that Sharpley did read summaries of the report, but said there were chapters in the much longer, classified version that dealt specifically with the operations of the inspector general's office, which could be instructive to the person leading that office. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said he would oppose his confirmation over the issue. The committee is expected to vote next week. Sharpley said the CIA received the report in December 2014 and it was uploaded to the inspector general's classified system. Shortly thereafter, the CIA was told to delete it from the agency's system because of an ongoing Freedom of Information Act court case. The CIA was instructed to put the report on a disc and place it in a classified safe. Several months later, Sharpley said he asked for the disc, but nobody could find it. He initiated an investigation and an information technology employee said it had been shredded. Another several months later, a retiring employee sifting through his materials found the disc in a classified safe. Sharpley said the employee who said he had shredded it was re-interviewed. This time, the individual, who had by then left the CIA, said he didn't actually remember shredding that specific disc, but that he had a stack of media on his desk and thought he had shredded it. "It's embarrassing and I have apologized," Sharpley said. He said this occurred around the same time that the courts ruled that the report was a congressional document and Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., had requested copies that had been distributed to intelligence and other executive branch agencies be returned to the committee. Democrats criticized Burr for that request, accusing him of trying to bury the document. "I made an independent judgment to return the disc," Sharpley said, adding that his decision was not a reflection on the quality of the report or its importance to history. "I did not have an opportunity to read the report," Sharpley said, although he acknowledged that he could have read it before he returned it to the committee, but chose not to do so. SAO PAULO (AP) - The Senate rejected a decision of Brazil's top court and returned a suspended lawmaker to his post Tuesday, in what critics said was the latest self-protection move by politicians accused of corruption. Former presidential candidate Aecio Neves was returned to the Senate by a 44-to-26 vote. He had been suspended by Brazil's Supreme Court, which ordered him put under house arrest. The conservative politician, who is a key ally of embattled President Michel Temer, was accused of obstruction of justice in a corruption case. Politicians have a special jurisdiction in Brazil's top court and cannot be prosecuted by low courts, but lawmakers argue the judiciary cannot prevail over the legislature. In this July 4, 2017 photo, Senator Aecio Neves, of the Brazilian Social Democracy Party, makes his defense statement at the Senate in Brasilia, Brazil. On Tuesday, Oct. 17, the Senate rejected a decision by the country's top court and returned Neves to office after he was accused of obstruction of justice in a corruption case. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres) The vote is likely to escalate tensions between anti-corruption judges and scandal-tainted politicians, many of whom have been caught up in the sprawling "Car Wash" corruption case. Neves, who narrowly lost the presidency in 2014, is chairman of the Brazilian Social Democracy Party, one of the biggest in Congress. He took a leave from the party position after the series of charges appeared. Temer needs the help of Neves' party to survive a vote in Congress that could suspend him from office and put him on trial for corruption. "Voting with Aecio is voting for democracy" since politicians should have the last word on which colleagues are arrested, said Sen. Romero Juca, a leader of Temer's administration in the upper house. Brazilians see Juca as a symbol of impunity for politicians. In secret recordings, he is heard saying politicians need "a great national deal" to put Temer in office in the place of President Dilma Rousseff and block the Car Wash investigations. Since Rousseff was impeached and replaced by Temer, Brazil's government has cut funding for federal police and prosecutors have complained about difficulties in investigating politicians. Lawmakers meet for a Senate session to decide whether or not to remove suspended Senator Aecio Neves in Brasilia, Brazil, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. The Senate rejected the decision by the country's top court and returned Neves to office after he was accused of obstruction of justice in a corruption case. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres) Brazil's Senate President Eunicio Oliveira, left, talks with Senator Romero Juca during a session to decide whether or not to remove suspended lawmaker Aecio Neves in Brasilia, Brazil, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. The Senate rejected the decision by the country's top court and returned Neves to office after he was accused of obstruction of justice in a corruption case. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres) ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - A Georgia man drowned at SeaWorld Orlando's Aquatica water park this past summer. The Orlando Sentinel reports that the Florida theme park disclosed 58-year-old Michael Stone's July 16 death in a state report made public Monday. Stone had been a resident at Je'DaDe Personal Care Home in Savannah, Georgia. He and 13 other residents were in Florida for a three-day trip when they went to Aquatica. An Orange County Sheriff's Office report says Stone had been wearing a life vest in a 3-feet deep (0.91-meters deep), river-style attraction just before he was found unresponsive and pulled from the water. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A medical examiner determined that Stone drowned. Officials say Stone had suffered from high blood pressure, diabetes and a history of strokes and seizures. ___ Information from: Orlando Sentinel, http://www.orlandosentinel.com/ Millions of families would be hit by price rises of more than 500 a year with the poorest taking the biggest hit if Brexit happens without the UK reaching a withdrawal deal with the European Union, a report warns. The average yearly household bill would rise by 260 in a no deal scenario in which Britain imposes the same tariffs on the EU as it does for other World Trade Organisation (WTO) countries. But three million families could see price rises of more than 500 while the proportionate impact on the poorest fifth of households would be 33% greater than on the richest fifth, the joint report by the Resolution Foundation and Sussex Universitys UK Trade Policy Observatory found. The trade-offs of trade: What different Brexits mean for prices and living standards - We'll livestream our sold-out event tomorrow at 930am Resolution Foundation (@resfoundation) October 16, 2017 It shows that walking away from deadlocked Brexit negotiations would be the worst possible outcome, the authors said. The analysis of a no deal scenario where the UK imposes WTO most favoured nation tariffs on the EU found that levies on dairy imports would rise by 45%, meat products by 37%, and clothing, footwear, drinks and tobacco by 10%. These tariffs would feed through into significant price increases, with the average price of dairy goods rising by 8.1%, meat products by 5.8% and cars and other vehicles by 5.5%, the report said. The hit to living standards would be greater for lower-income households as they tend to spend a greater share of their income on food and essential items of clothing which would be most affected by new tariffs. Chris Grayling says a no deal Brexit will mainly be bad for the EU and "Britain will succeed whatever happens" #marr pic.twitter.com/ohB6ycHr5v The Andrew Marr Show (@MarrShow) October 15, 2017 A different no deal Brexit scenario, in which the UK unilaterally reduces all tariffs to zero, would reduce household spending by an average of 130 a year. But this is unlikely to happen as it would reduce Britains ability to strike free trade deals around the world, and expose some industries to sharp competitive pressures as other countries would not be obliged to reduce their own tariffs. Stephen Clarke, economic analyst at the Resolution Foundation, said: The Government has said that while it wants a comprehensive trade agreement it is also preparing for a no deal scenario when we leave the EU. Such an outcome - which could see the UK imposing tariffs on EU imports - would increase the annual shopping bills of millions of households by 500, with poorer families taking the biggest hit. PA Graphics While trade may not have been the biggest issue in the referendum, it is one that will affect the day-to-day living standards of every family in Britain. The Government must rightly continue to prioritise a comprehensive new trade agreement with the EU in order to avoid households having to fork out for a no deal outcome through higher prices and squeezed households budgets. Ilona Serwicka, research fellow at Sussex University, said: Our research shows that this (no deal) scenario will increase the cost of essential goods, such as food and clothes, which will impact most adversely on those households who already struggle to get food on the table and make ends meet. To avoid the real economic danger of a cliff-edge scenario - that will see the cost of living for households up and down the country go up - the UK Government must realise that walking away from the negotiating table is the worst possible outcome. READ: @Keir_Starmer's letter to David Davis calling for an additional emergency round of talks with EU negotiators to end #Brexit deadlock pic.twitter.com/WHWsddzNFC Shadow Brexit Team (@ShadowBrexit) October 12, 2017 Shadow Brexit minister Jenny Chapman said: This report is further evidence of how a no deal Brexit will hit family budgets and the potential dire consequences of the Governments chaotic handling of the Brexit negotiations. Britain crashing out of Europe without a deal is simply not a viable option. No deal risks price hikes in the shops as a result of extra charges on everyday items, such as food and drink. And yet, the only solution ministers have offered to this potential crisis is dig for no deal. Theresa May must use this weeks EU Council meeting to end the deadlock in Brexit negotiations and protect Britain from an economic cliff edge. That means agreeing strong transitional arrangements within the single market and a customs union. Theresa May and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker have agreed to accelerate efforts to find a Brexit deal but offered little sign of tangible progress. Following a working dinner in Brussels on Monday, the Prime Minister and Mr Juncker said in a joint statement that their meeting had been constructive and friendly. However there was no indication the Commissioners side was ready to revise its view that the talks still had not made sufficient progress for them to move forward to the second phase - including a free trade deal. Following a working dinner in Brussels on Monday, the Prime Minister and Mr Juncker said their meeting had been "constructive and friendly" The meeting came after the EUs chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, warned last week that the discussions remained deadlocked with Britains divorce bill a key stumbling block. He made clear he could not recommend to other EU leaders that they were ready to move on to phase two when they meet in the Belgian capital on Thursday. Amid continued frustration at the lack of progress, British officials will now be looking to the EUs December summit as the next opportunity to move forward. Senior EU figures however warned that the UK would have to be clearer about how much it is willing to pay to settle its financial commitments. Elmar Brok, a senior German MEP in Chancellor Angela Merkels CDU, said while Mrs Mays assurance in her Florence speech that the UK would honour its obligations was welcome, it did not go far enough. Consultations UE27. Echanges constructifs @LaChambreBE & @SenaatSenat de #Belgique. Parlements nationaux ont 1 role cle ds cette negociation pic.twitter.com/l6YiQ1tWg5 Michel Barnier (@MichelBarnier) October 16, 2017 It must be clear what it means in practical terms. That is a nice speech but not a proposal for negotiations, he told BBC2s Newsnight. He said that while it should be possible to make progress in December, negotiations were being hampered by the continued infighting among senior British ministers. I have more the feeling that the fight in the Tory Party about the leadership is stopping us coming to such a result more than anything else, he said. In their statement, Mrs May and Mr Juncker said they had had a broad, constructive exchange on a range of issues - including the need to preserve the Iran nuclear deal following US President Donald Trumps latest threat to withdraw. The Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission reviewed the progress made in the Article 50 negotiations so far and agreed that these efforts should accelerate over the months to come, they said. Mays British Dream is a failed attempt to cover up her Brexit nightmare. Tom Brake (@thomasbrake) October 16, 2017 The working dinner took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere. It was in marked contrast to a previous private dinner at Number 10 in April when Mr Junckers chief of staff, Martin Selmayr, was blamed for leaking details, including a warning by the Commission President that he left 10 times more sceptical than when he arrived. Among MPs at Westminster campaigning for a soft Brexit, however, there was frustration at the lack of apparent progress despite the warm words. Liberal Democrat Brexit spokesman Tom Brake said: With just 18 months of Brexit talks left, this statement barely even registers on the Richter scale. Labour former shadow chancellor Chris Leslie, member of the Open Britain group, said: The blandness of their joint statement begs the question of what Theresa May actually did talk about in her meeting with Jean-Claude Juncker. Adam Lallana remains on track for a return to the Liverpool side next month. The attacking midfielder is yet to play for the Reds this season after suffering a thigh injury in a pre-season clash with Atletico Madrid. Lallana spent time in Qatar last week as part of his recovery programme but returned to Melwood on Monday. Adam Lallana is nearing a return And now Jurgen Klopp has discussed a potential return date for @officialAL20. Full story: https://t.co/AgpwVkMnec pic.twitter.com/d6w2wKwRyq Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 16, 2017 Boss Jurgen Klopp told liverpoolfc.com: Its absolutely good news. I cannot say now, but maybe after the next international break he could be back. It would be fantastic for us, of course. Everybody knows what kind of a quality player he is. Klopp saw his attacking options limited further last week by the loss of Sadio Mane to a hamstring injury. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are to make an official visit to Norway and Sweden next year. Kate, who is expecting her third child, will be well into her pregnancy when she makes the trip early in 2018. Kensington Palace said the couple had been asked to undertake the Scandinavian visit on behalf of the Foreign Office. William and Kate to visit Norway and Sweden in 2018 The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will undertake an official visit to Norway and Sweden at the request of the FCO in early 2018. pic.twitter.com/Kl7rlZW5nO The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) October 17, 2017 The royal household also announced that William is to make a solo official visit to Finland next month. He will travel to the country, without Kate, on Wednesday November 29 and Thursday 30, also at the request of the Foreign Office. The Duchess is suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum a severe form of morning sickness but made a surprise appearance at a royal engagement on Monday. She took a twirl with Paddington Bear as they danced on the platform of Paddington Station, watched by William and Prince Harry, at a charity event. A second referendum that reverses Brexit would have a positive and significant impact on the UK economy, which is on track to be crippled by its EU divorce, an influential think tank has claimed. The latest UK economic survey by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is currently projecting economic growth of just 1% in 2018, saying that the uncertainty of Brexit negotiations is likely to leave the UK without a free-trade agreement with the EU by its official exit date in 2019. It warned that Britains economic prospects could be further hit by a disorderly Brexit if negotiations between the EU and UK are cut short, triggering a sharp reaction by financial markets, sending the exchange rate to new lows and leading to a downgrade in the UKs sovereign rating. Business investment would seize up, and heightened price pressures would choke off private consumption. The current account deficit could be harder to finance, although its size would likely be reduced, the report warned. There are also risks that Scotland and Northern Ireland could vote to stay in the EU, which would have a major impact on the national economy. There are risks that Scotland and Northern Ireland could seek independence to maintain EU membership (PA) But the Paris-based OECD has suggested the UK could dodge those risks through a Brexit reversal. In case Brexit gets reversed by political decision (change of majority, new referendum, etc), the positive impact on growth would be significant, the report said. The OECD admitted that Brexit negotiations were difficult to forecast, and could prove more favourable than assumed in its report boosting trade, investment and growth but stressed that this would require an ambitious EU-UK agreement and a transition period to allow for adjustment to the new agreement. Meantime, however, uncertainty could hamper domestic and foreign investment more than projected and hurt consumption even more were the exchange rate to depreciate further, it added. Brexit has compounded the challenge of reviving labour productivity growth, which the OECD said had come to a standstill and made no meaningful contribution to UK output since 2007. The report highlighted that labour productivity was also weakest outside of Greater London and the South East of England. This kind of disparity between regions and workers may lead to, or be the result of, important differences among people in terms of income and wealth, jobs and earnings, and education and skills. Well-being inequalities may have been one of the causes of Brexit, as less-educated workers in remote regions might have perceived to benefit less from the European project, it added. The report put forward a number of recommendations to address productivity and job quality of low-skilled workers, including investment in transport links within and between cities, continue devolution measures, additional training, restricting self-employment to independent entrepreneurs, and granting zero-hours contract workers increased job security after three months. The OECD says UK labour productivity growth has come to a "standstill" (PA) Responding to the OECD report, a spokesman for the Treasury said: Increasing productivity is a key priority for this Government, so that we can build on our record employment levels and improve peoples quality of life. Today, the OECD has recognised the importance of our 23 billion National Productivity Investment Fund which will improve our countrys infrastructure, increase research and development and build more houses. In addition, our reforms to technical education and our ambitious Industrial Strategy will also help to deliver an economy that works for everyone. Zlatan Ibrahimovic sent his congratulations to former side Malmo after they secured the Swedish league title on Monday evening. Malmo came from behind to earn a 3-1 win at Norrkoping to move 10 points clear of second-placed AIK with three matches remaining and hand Magnus Pehrssons side their record 23rd Allsvenskan crown. The Manchester United striker started his career at the club before he moved to Ajax in July 2001 for a fee of around 5million and he posted on social media to celebrate their recent success. Zlatan Ibrahimovic in a press conference for Manchester United Ibrahimovic has forged a highly successful career in Europe since leaving his hometown club, where he has won 11 domestic league titles in Holland, Italy, Spain and France. He joined the Red Devils last season and scored 28 goals in 46 appearances in all competitions as Jose Mourinhos side won the Community Shield, EFL Cup and Europa League in his first campaign in charge. Swedens record top goalscorer extended his contract at Old Trafford for a further 12 months, but he is currently sidelined with a serious knee injury picked up in April and is hoping for a return to action in the new year. The City watchdog has bowed to pressure from MPs for independent legal scrutiny of a controversial report into mistreatment of small businesses at Royal Bank of Scotland. Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) chief executive Andrew Bailey has agreed to a proposal from the Treasury Select Committee to appoint a legal adviser to compare the regulators soon-to-be published summary with the underlying report into the scandal at RBSs controversial restructuring unit. The move comes after the committee headed by new chairwoman Nicky Morgan last week wrote to Mr Bailey threatening to use its formal powers to demand publication of the leaked report if its request was denied or if it was not happy with the findings. Andrew Bailey has so far refused to publish the leaked RBS report in full (PA) In response, Mr Bailey agreed to give the summary and full report to the legal adviser set to be Andrew Green QC to assess whether it is a fair and balanced summary. But he stressed in a letter to Ms Morgan that this would be an exceptional case and does not establish a precedent. Following a review by the committees adviser and the FCAs own legal adviser, the regulator will publish a final account. Ms Morgan said: The advisers will now start their work and report to the committee before Mr Baileys appearance at the end of the month. If the advisers report does not provide the committee with the assurances it needs, it will decide whether any further steps are required. There is no good reason for the committees review to delay the FCA from publishing its summary as soon as possible. Nicky Morgan threatened to use the committees powers to demand full publication of the report (PA) The FCA has so far refused the committees demands to publish the report in full, claiming it would reveal confidential information about individuals, and has instead offered a detailed summary. The committee intervened in the saga last month, calling for publication of the report into misconduct at the banks Global Restructuring Group (GRG) following a leak to the BBC in August. Mr Bailey pushed back, saying that publishing the skilled persons or Section 166 review which collects insight about a firms activities from third parties would mean revealing confidential information about the individuals who contributed to it. But in his latest letter to Ms Morgan, he said the report and confidential information can be seen by legal advisers using a so-called self-help gateway. He also insisted the legal adviser takes into account the justification and reasonableness for why some information from the full report cannot be included in the summary. The committees calls for publication have echoed those by the SME Alliance and lawyers suing RBS on behalf of businesses affected by the scandal which allegedly saw RBSs turnaround unit intentionally push businesses towards failure in hopes of picking up their assets on the cheap. The study was commissioned by the regulator almost four years ago as part of its inquiry into the GRG, and while the FCA pledged last November to publish a full account from the skilled persons report, it has so far refused to make it public. The FCA also has yet to decide whether the case requires a formal investigation. It is unthinkable that the UK will walk away from talks with Brussels without a deal at least covering security co-operation, Home Secretary Amber Rudd has said appearing to contradict Brexit Secretary David Davis. Mr Davis told MPs although the Government was straining every sinew to secure a comprehensive deal covering the future relationship with the European Union after Brexit in March 2019 it was vital that in a negotiation you have to have the right to walk away. But Ms Rudd insisted there would be agreement on the vital issue of security co-operation, stressing that it was in the interests of both the UK and the remaining 27 EU members to reach a deal. Amber Rudd Prime Minister Theresa May put forward plans for a treaty on security co-operation in her Florence speech on Brexit. Asked about speculation the UK could walk away without a Brexit deal of any form Ms Rudd told the Home Affairs Select Committee: I think it is unthinkable that there would be no deal. Amber Rudd just told Home Affairs Cttee that no deal on #Brexit would be "unthinkable" - direct contradiction to David Davis threats today. Stephen Doughty MP (@SDoughtyMP) October 17, 2017 It is so much in their interest as well as in ours; in their communities, in their families, in their tourists interests to have something in place. We will make sure there is something between them and us to maintain our security. Ms Rudd was a high-profile campaigner for the Remain cause during the Brexit referendum and her comments are likely to cause concern among arch-Eurosceptics on the Tory benches who believe the UK should retain the option of cutting ties with Brussels without any form of deal. Mr Davis, who is leading the UKs negotiations with the EU, accused Brussels of attempting to squeeze more taxpayers cash out of the Government by using the pressure of time as the clock ticks down to the Brexit date. Watch David Davis speaking about the substantial progress made during the negotiations so far pic.twitter.com/vfppyrsf9H Department for Exiting the EU (@DExEUgov) October 17, 2017 Theyre using time pressure to see if they can get more money out of us, and bluntly, thats whats going on, he told the Commons. Asked about the prospect of leaving without an agreement, he said the UK had to be prepared because its a negotiation with many people and could go wrong but also you always have to have the right to walk away if you dont, you get a terrible deal. Downing Street attempted to play down any difference between Ms Rudd and her Cabinet colleague. A Number 10 spokeswoman said: I think if you look at her words in full, shes referring to the fact that a deal is in the best interests of both sides and thats something the Prime Minister absolutely agrees with. Thousands of people remain without power and water following Storm Ophelia, with a huge recovery operation under way across Ireland. Storm Ophelia, strongest gusts in Ireland Three people died when the ex-hurricane, the strongest storm to hit Ireland in almost 60 years, battered the country on Monday. A major clean-up and repair operation has begun with engineers working to restore downed power lines and crews clearing away fallen trees. Just outside Kilcock with local @ESBNetworks crews restoring power to households. Fallen power lines are dangerous: stay back & stay safe. pic.twitter.com/LUJMjQTX5P Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) October 17, 2017 Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, who visited engineers working to restore power in some of the worst-hit areas, said it could be eight days before some people get power switched back on. It is anticipated that the vast majority of people will have power restored in the next three to four days, he said. Some may be without power for eight days. Thousands of @ESBNetworks staff are working round the clock to restore power: more than 200k homes&businesses already reconnected #Opheila pic.twitter.com/fUJDxAWrpd Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) October 17, 2017 Father-of-two Fintan Goss, 33, was killed in Ravensdale, Dundalk, when a car he was in was struck by a tree 10 minutes from home on Monday. Louth county councillor John McGahon described Mr Goss, who he said became a father for the second time in recent weeks, and his family as extremely well-regarded in the community. In Cahir, Co Tipperary, 31-year-old Michael Pyke was killed in a chainsaw accident when he was trying to clear a tree downed by the wind. Earlier, former oncology nurse Clare ONeill, who was just short of her 59th birthday, died when a tree fell on her car in strong winds near Aglish village in Co Waterford. Clare O'Neill, who has been named as one of the victims of Storm Ophelia Tributes were paid to Ms ONeill, who worked as a nurse at Cork ARC Cancer Support House for more than a decade. Ellen Joyce, director of services at the charity, said: We are all deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our friend and colleague Clare ONeill. She was a wonderful nurse and a special person who will be missed by the Cork ARC Cancer Support House team, our volunteers and all the people and patients she worked with here and in Youghal. Our thoughts are with her family at this most difficult time. Our crews have restored power to 55% of affected customers and are continuing to work on remaining faults. Thank you for your patience pic.twitter.com/eXIQiGG3fB ESB Networks (@ESBNetworks) October 17, 2017 Mr Varadkar said there had been two incidents where emergency workers had almost died due to downed power lines. Around 170,000 customers were still without power on Tuesday afternoon, with the worst damage in the southern part of the Republic. We are helping @ESBNetworks to check hundreds of kilometres of power lines across the country.@defenceforces @EngineerIreland pic.twitter.com/1ZbewdEzda Irish Air Corps (@IrishAirCorps) October 17, 2017 People in the worst affected areas, from Wexford to Skibbereen in Co Cork, have been asked to conserve their water supply as far as possible while repair work continues as reservoirs are refilled. Soldiers have been deployed in the Republic, along with two military vehicles and two helicopters to help assess damage as thousands of ESB staff work to fix fallen and broken cables. Crews from Northern Ireland will join efforts this evening while others from Scotland and France are expected to be drafted in to help from Wednesday. THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK Native American tribes in North Dakota and around the country will benefit as Theodore Roosevelt National Park reduces the size of its bison herd this week. Staff at the South Unit of the park are conducting a bison roundup to cull the size of the herd from 500 to about 380 animals. A majority of the animals will go to supplement herds of various tribes through the InterTribal Buffalo Council, which represents about 60 tribes across 19 states, said Patrick Toomey, range technician for the Rapid City, S.D.-based organization. We have a constant need for animals because our tribal herds are being used, theyre being utilized the way they traditionally have been, for food source, for ceremonial purposes, Toomey said. The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe will receive 30 to 40 bison, Toomey said. The Three Affiliated Tribes are expected to receive five to 10 animals to establish a new bison herd in Twin Buttes, said Tribal Business Council member Cory Spotted Bear. The new herd in the Twin Buttes segment will be in addition to a bison herd in the Mandaree area. Its a livelihood, Spotted Bear said. Its a symbol of bringing local opportunity back to the community of Twin Buttes. Other bison will be transported around the country, Toomey said. The partnership with the National Park Service requires the animals to be kept alive for at least a year, he said. Because Theodore Roosevelt National Park is fenced, officials have to prevent the bison herds from getting too large to ensure theres enough available forage for the grazing animals, said Blake McCann, wildlife biologist. The target is to keep the herd at about 300 to 500 at the South Unit and less than 300 at the North Unit, he said. The park held a roundup at the North Unit last year and expects to take next year off, said Eileen Andes, chief of interpretation and public affairs. This week, park officials are using two helicopters to guide bison toward a corral system at the edge of the park. They actually bring them fairly slowly toward the facility so the animals are walking fast, but we dont want to get them too excited and too agitated, Andes said. The bison remain in a fenced-off pasture until they are guided through a series of gates and pens. Each animal is led into a hydraulic squeeze chute, where a veterinarian takes blood samples to verify the bison are disease-free. Park Service staff also collect hair samples from the tail for genetic testing that is part of an ongoing research project. McCann also determines the age of the animals by looking at their teeth. The yearling and 2-year-olds are candidates for being removed from the herd, McCann said. Decisions about managing the bison herd are based on research. When we manage our bison herd, we use science. Our decisions arent made arbitrarily, Andes said. About 25 people participated Monday, with each person assigned to a different task to keep the bison moving through efficiently. We want to keep things as quiet and low-key as absolutely possible because its for our safety and also the safety of the animals, Andes said. Bill Clinton has warned that some Brexit voters may only now be realising the impact of their decision. The former US president said the choice between community and tribe will determine how the world meets the threat posed by climate change, inequality and other great challenges. After being honoured by Dublin City University for his work on peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, Mr Clinton said he used the example of the Good Friday Agreement shamelessly around the world. Bill Clinton @DublinCityUni ahead of receiving honorary doctorate for role in peace & reconciliation in NI pic.twitter.com/wpk2wLuO0q Ed Carty (@EdCartyPA) October 17, 2017 But he warned that the Brexit vote was about people thinking differences are more important that what they have in common. Now, there are lots of people who think they are less human, he said. (Niall Carson/PA) Now given the economic inequalities and the rapid pace of social change and all the upheaval thats going on . people are reassessing whether what we have in common is more important than our differences. A lot of people begged to differ. Thats really what the Brexit vote is all about. Mr Clinton was awarded an honorary doctorate of philosophy, DCUs highest honour. Academic procession into Helix in DCU for ceremony. Sr Stan, social justice campaigner & Martin Naughton, Glen Dimplex founder also honoured pic.twitter.com/7KjdhqIk2X Ed Carty (@EdCartyPA) October 17, 2017 Alongside him were Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, a lifelong social justice campaigner who founded Focus Ireland, the countrys biggest homeless charity, and the Immigrant Council of Ireland. Also honoured at the event in the Helix was Martin Naughton, founder of manufacturing giant Glen Dimplex. Mr Clinton reflected on his own legacy with the Good Friday Agreement, signed in Belfast in 1998, mid-way through his two terms in the White House. Opening of citation for Bill Clinton pic.twitter.com/7XcixVscut Ed Carty (@EdCartyPA) October 17, 2017 Ultimately the accord was brokered after he took a more hands-on approach to US diplomacy on the island of Ireland at the height of the Troubles. Mr Clinton travelled direct to Northern Ireland for private meetings with politicians after the ceremony his intervention in the political stalemate delayed by a day because of Storm Ophelia. Bill Clinton leaves the Culloden hotel after meeting DUP leader Arlene Foster. pic.twitter.com/rBaYY3VM4S David Young (@DavidYoungPA) October 17, 2017 Michelle O Neill & I Had A Good Meeting With President Clinton. pic.twitter.com/MNjozlfL7n Gerry Adams (@GerryAdamsSF) October 17, 2017 In a lengthy address to hundreds of invited guests and students in the Helix in DCU, Mr Clinton warned about inequalities and divisions. The world is now in a conflict whether we should stop our mingling with others at the tribal level or whether communities are better; whether diverse groups make better decisions and create wealth and life and opportunity or homogenous ones do as they dont push us so hard and we feel more secure, he said. We cant get away from each other so we should look at our neighbours without regard to their race, religion, their orientation or whatever. Mr Clinton raised concerns about the rise of nationalist parties in Germany, France, the Netherlands and Austria and also the impact of Brexit. Mr Clinton added: All partnerships that are community-based are held together not because everybody agrees with everybody else, not because we dont still have our particular identities, but because co-operation is better than conflict or isolation in any environment in which you must be in touch with others. Its a simple proposition. But we are re-litigating it now. Bookies have made Alice the favourite name for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges third child. Queen Victoria named her second daughter Alice and hot on its heels with punters are better known names with royal connections Arthur, Elizabeth and even Albert. Coral spokesman Harry Aitkenhead said: With the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge announcing today that their third child is due in April the public will no doubt be wondering what names the pair have in mind. he Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Alice remains the favourite for punters although weve seen support recently for Albert which is now into 16-1. William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams said his firm were offering odds of 33-1 the royal baby born would be born on one of the biggest days in the 2018 horse racing calendar April 14, Grand National day. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in April 2018. pic.twitter.com/jOzB1TJMof The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) October 17, 2017 He said: We now know that the child is expected in April and it would be a real twist to the biggest day of our year. One thing that is all but certain is that Harry will be engaged by the time he becomes an uncle for a third time. William Hill make Alice the favourite name with odds of 10-1 followed by Arthur and Victoria both 12-1, Elizabeth and Fred 14-1 and among a list of names at 16-1 are Grace, James and Alexandra. Coral also have Alice as their lead name at 7-1, followed by Victoria 10-1, Arthur 12-1 and a number of names at 16-1 including Albert, Alexandra, Diana and Elizabeth. Former US president Bill Clinton has met with Northern Irelands political leaders during a visit to Belfast. Mr Clinton had separate engagements with Democratic Unionist leader Arlene Foster and Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams and the republican partys Stormont leader Michelle ONeill. Former US president @BillClinton arrives in Belfast for private engagements, including a meeting with @DUPleader pic.twitter.com/Hdw0FQdoXJ David Young (@DavidYoungPA) October 17, 2017 The private discussions came as the two parties remain at loggerheads in negotiations to restore powersharing in Northern Ireland. Bill Clinton The DUP stressed that the behind-closed-doors engagement with Mrs Foster at the Culloden Hotel on the outskirts of Belfast did not focus on the ongoing impasse. However, Sinn Fein said the situation at Stormont was on the agenda in its talks with the former president. Michelle O Neill & I Had A Good Meeting With President Clinton. pic.twitter.com/MNjozlfL7n Gerry Adams (@GerryAdamsSF) October 17, 2017 It is understood Mr Clinton is reluctant to be seen as directly intervening in the process. After his meeting with Mrs Foster, Mr Clinton also made a more public announcement about a new educational initiative in her home constituency of Fermanagh. Bill Clinton leaves the Culloden hotel after meeting DUP leader Arlene Foster. pic.twitter.com/rBaYY3VM4S David Young (@DavidYoungPA) October 17, 2017 An academic link-up with universities on both sides of the Atlantic will see the re-generation of a peace building centre already named in Mr Clintons honour in Enniskillen. At the start of his comments, the former president told the DUP leader he did not like describing her as former first minister and expressed hope the institutions would be back up and running soon. We are going to get this going again I think, he said. After meeting with Mr Clinton elsewhere in Belfast, Mrs ONeill: We had a wide ranging discussion on a number of issues including the current difficulties facing the political process, efforts to restore the political institutions on the basis of rights and equality and the implications of Brexit. SF Leadership meet President Clinton https://t.co/5LwUZLVciO @moneillsf Welcome for revamp of Clinton Centre and interest in peace process pic.twitter.com/jPHvZq9s54 Sinn Fein (@sinnfeinireland) October 17, 2017 Dublin City University, Ulster University and University of Massachusetts (UMass) have come together in a joint initiative to regenerate the Clinton Centre. The building is built on the site of the IRAs notorious 1987 Remembrance Day bombing. A permanent memorial to the 12 victims of the attack will be incorporated into the new-look centre. I think it is altogether fitting that there is going to be a monument to what happened at Enniskillen, said Mr Clinton. Welcoming President Bill Clinton & initiative to remodel Clinton Centre. A permanent memorial to innocent victims will be fitting tribute. pic.twitter.com/5oJBU2KnGR Arlene Foster DBE PC #ProudofNI. (@ArleneFosterUK) October 17, 2017 I think it is also important that this small community where a very big bad thing happened will able to launch good things for the future and I am thrilled. Mrs Foster welcomed the initiative. It is a sad reality that Enniskillen is known to many across the world as a result of the 1987 bomb in the town, she said. I have worked with many of the survivors of that bomb. A permanent memorial for the victims being incorporated into the remodelled Clinton Centre will be a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives and those who still live with the scars. MONTEVIDEO, Oct 15 (Reuters) - International Cannabis Corporation will produce Uruguay's first batch of medical cannabis oil for export in December, the company's chief executive said Sunday. The Montevideo-headquartered company plans to ship the oil to Canada and Mexico, but is also open to selling it on the domestic market, Alejandro Antalich added. "The goal is to export it. But if the Public Health Minister thinks it can be commercialized in the local market the idea would be to do that," Antalich told Reuters by phone. Exporting cannabis oil would mark a new first for Uruguay, a small South American nation that in 2013 became the first country in the world to legalize marijuana from its cultivation to distribution. Under Uruguayan law, medical marijuana can be exported but recreational marijuana can only be sold domestically. Next month, ICC will start construction of a marijuana laboratory in a new industrial park on the outskirts of Montevideo, Antalich said. The new lab should be finished in April and the company will use a transitory lab to produce cannabis oil from its first harvest next month, Antalich added. ICC grows medical marijuana on some 233 hectares (576 acres) in Uruguay and plans to invest $10 million in production through 2018. The company also sells recreational marijuana in Uruguay. (Reporting By Eloisa Capurro, Writing By Mitra Taj; Editing by Michael Perry) By Lisandra Paraguassu BRASILIA, Oct 16 (Reuters) - France will propose changing the European Commission's mandate to negotiate a trade deal with South America's Mercosur bloc to include food safety provisions, its envoy to Brazil said on Monday. French ambassador Michel Miraillet said there was heightened concern in the European Union over food safety after a series of recent scandals, including the bribing of inspectors by meatpackers in Brazil to overlook sanitary practices. Miraillet said France expected "four or five" EU countries to back its plan to propose updating the Commission's negotiating authority. "We don't know what will happen, but this is one proposal that will be made. The mandate dates from 1999 and needs to be modified," the diplomat told Brazilian reporters. The government of President Emmanuel Macron is under pressure from French farmers to avoid competition from cheaper Mercosur products, especially meat and ethanol. At a gathering of farmers and food producers last week, Macron said he was in no hurry to conclude by the end of the year trade negotiations that have dragged on for 18 years. Brazil's foreign ministry declined to comment on the ambassador's comments. A European diplomat, who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, said France's planned request was a delaying tactic. A Brazilian diplomat, who also requested anonymity, said the French proposal was an attempt to "intimidate" Mercosur, whose members are seeking greater market access for food exports to the EU. Mercosur members Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay want the EU to improve an offer to open its markets to South American beef and ethanol if it wants to seal a trade deal by year-end. Europe has offered to allow 70,000 tonnes of beef and 600,000 tonnes of ethanol to enter the EU with reduced import duties, which Brazilian and Argentinian negotiators described as "disappointing." The European Commission, which negotiates on behalf of all EU countries, has to balance the interests of members pushing for a trade deal and those such as France and Ireland that are concerned about a glut of agricultural imports from Mercosur. (Reporting by Lisandra Paraguassu; Writing by Anthony Boadle; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Rosalba O'Brien) By Kiyoshi Takenaka and Ami Miyazaki NANMOKU, Japan, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Chikara Imai, 73, is quick to dismiss the new parties in Sunday's national election in Japan, saying old ties with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's Liberal Democratic Party is what the country's most elderly village needs for survival. Nanmoku, 107 km (67 miles) northwest of Tokyo, is at the forefront of Japan's battle against an ageing and shrinking population. Its population has halved over the past 20 years to 1,963, and with a median age of 70.6, Nanmoku is now Japan's oldest municipality. Nanmoku and places like it across Japan are a key support base for the LDP, which has been in power for most of the past six decades. "Rural Japan is no Tokyo. Those people may say something ideal in Tokyo, something like 'Let's change Japan'. But here, it won't strike home," Imai said. Sunday's lower house election pits Abe's LDP-led coalition against two brand new parties: the Party of Hope headed by popular Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike; and the centre-left Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, which emerged from a breakup of the traditional opposition Democratic Party. But Koike's "reformist, conservative" challenge doesn't resonate much in Nanmoku. Most municipalities are shrinking in Japan, so far the only important developed country with a declining population. They look to Tokyo for a lifeline. "For back country dwellers, strong ties with the central government come in handy when we need to ask for help in such times as a natural disaster. This village has no option but to support them," the 73-year-old Imai said. Gunma prefecture, where Nanmoku is located, has long been an LDP stronghold and has produced four prime ministers, including Keizo Obuchi, premier from 1998-2000. DEVIL'S TONGUE On Sunday, the Nanmoku municipality will provide transportation to elderly villagers who would otherwise have difficulty getting to the polls. Mountains account for 90 percent of Nanmoku's total land area, leaving little space for farming and housing. Some of the houses, built along a river running through the village, look abandoned. Few customers come by the several general shops that remain open. The village's sole remaining elementary school has just 24 students this year, down from a high of 1,632 in 1959, when Nanmoku operated three grade schools. Farms that used to grow devil's tongue, a starchy potato-like plant, have yielded to large-scale operations in other municipalities blessed with ample farm land. "Until this day, we have not found a substitute (industry)," Nanmoku Mayor Saijo Hasegawa told Reuters. With independent revenue sources covering less than 20 percent of the village's budget, Hasegawa sees a continuity in government support for Nanmoku as essential, and is wary of a change in government. "There's no such thing as one-year plan to fight population decline. It takes 20, 30 years for any measures to take effect," Hasegawa said. "In a change of government, politicians tend to deny everything about the former government, which is scary." Japan's demographic challenge is one of the biggest facing the new government after Sunday's elections. People aged 65 or older account for 27.2 percent of the total population, the highest on record, while the population is forecast to fall by nearly a third by 2065 when almost 40 percent will be 65 or older. Japans government has earmarked a record 32.5 trillion yen ($29 billion) this fiscal year to pay for social security services, the bulk of which is spent on the elderly. Social security outlays account for roughly a third of this year's national budget. RECRUITING CITY-DWELLERS As part of a drive to tackle Japan's demographic time-bomb, the government in 2009 started a programme to financially help local municipalities recruit urbanites to work in agriculture and other sectors for eventual settlement. Yohka Tanaka, who grew up in Tokyo and went to college in the United States, moved to Nanmoku two years ago through the programme. He is now working on natural farming, which uses no pesticides or fertilisers. Tanaka, 26, aims to prove the viability of such farming so environmentally-conscious young people will follow in his foot steps. "This place is perfect for natural farming ... As long as I stick around, the village won't disappear." For Shigeyuki Kaneta, a comparatively young resident at 46 who owns a confectionary shop, escalating tensions over North Korea does raise that distinct possibility. North Korea has launched two ballistic missiles that flew over Japan in recent months. "It's a dangerous world," said Kaneta, who believes the LDP is better equipped to handle security matters. "Strange objects are flying around. If they fell (on Japanese soil), we wouldn't (just) be discussing population decline." ($1 = 111.79 yen) (Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka; Editing by Bill Tarrant) MADRID, Oct 17 (Reuters) - The detention of Catalan activists on Monday, the first imprisonment of senior secessionist figures since the region's Oct. 1 banned referendum on independence, was a judicial, not a political, matter, Spain's justice minister said on Tuesday. On Monday, the court ordered that the heads of the pro-independence groups Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium be held without bail pending an investigation for alleged sedition. "These are not political prisoners because yesterday's prison ruling was due to a crime (that was committed)," Justice Minister Rafael Catala said at an event in Madrid. (Reporting by Raquel Castillo; Writing by Paul Day; Editing by Isla Binnie) By Neil Jerome Morales and Manolo Serapio Jr MANILA, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared the southern city of Marawi liberated from pro-Islamic State militants on Tuesday, although the military said 20-30 rebels were holding about 20 hostages and still fighting it out. In a rousing address to soldiers a day after the killing of two commanders of the rebel alliance, Duterte said he would never again allow militants to stockpile so many weapons, but Marawi was now free and it was time to heal wounds and rebuild. "I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from terrorist influence, that marks the beginning of rehabilitation," Duterte, wearing a camouflage cap and dark sunglasses, said during his unannounced visit. Isnilon Hapilon, who was wanted by the United States and was Islamic State's Southeast Asian "emir", and Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers central to the alliance, were killed in a targeted operation on Monday. Their bodies were recovered and identified, authorities said. The 148-day occupation marked the Roman Catholic-majority Philippines' biggest security crisis in years and triggered concerns that with its mountains, jungles and porous borders, the island of Mindanao could become a magnet for Islamic State fighters driven out of Iraq and Syria. More than 1,000 people, mostly rebels, were killed in the battle and the heart of the city of 200,000 has been levelled by air strikes. Duterte said the liberation was not a cause for celebration and later apologised to the people of Marawi for the destruction. "We had to do it," he said. "There was no alternative." Armed forces chief Eduardo Ano said the remaining gunmen were now a "law enforcement matter", while military spokesman Restituto Padilla described them as "stragglers". "There is no way that they can get out anymore, there is no way for anyone to get in," Padilla told news channel ANC. NOT A FIGHTER, NOT A PROBLEM Padilla said the military believed Malaysian operative Mahmud Ahmad was in Marawi, but it could not be certain. He said Mahmud was no threat. "Dr. Mahmud is an academic, he's not a fighter," Padilla said. "We don't feel he is a problem." But some security experts say otherwise and believe Mahmud, 39, a recruiter and fundraiser who trained at an al Qaeda camp in Afghanistan, could replace Hapilon as Islamic State's point-man in Southeast Asia. Another leader, Abdullah Maute, has yet to be accounted for. Intelligence indicated he died in an August air strike, though no body was found. Defence officials say the core leadership was key to recruiting young fighters and arranging for extremists from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and beyond to join the push to carve out an East Asian "Wilaya", or Islamic State province. Hapilon had teamed up with the moneyed Maute clan in their stronghold of Lanao del Sur, one of the Philippines' poorest provinces, and brought with him fighters from his radical faction of Abu Sayyaf, a group better known for banditry. Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who estimated Marawi operations to have cost 5 billion pesos ($97.5 million), said reconstruction could start in January. "There are still stragglers and the structures are still unsafe because of unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive devices," he said on radio. The Marawi occupation set alarm bells ringing in the Philippines, with militants surprising security forces with their combat prowess, the volume of arms and ammunition they stockpiled and their ability to withstand intensive air strikes aided by U.S. surveillance drones and technical support. ($1 = 51 pesos) (Additional reporting by Manuel Mogato; Writing by Martin Petty; Editing by Nick Macfie) By Salvador Rodriguez and Julia Love SAN FRANCISCO/MEXICO CITY, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Amazon, Facebook and other U.S. tech companies are expanding operations south of the border as Mexico works to capitalize on the Trump administrations anti-immigration stance. Since the beginning of the year, Amazon.com Inc has opened a new engineering office in Mexico City, while Facebook Inc has partnered with local groups to develop technical talent in the region. Oracle Corp plans to expand its offices in the Pacific coast state of Jalisco, local officials said, possibly bringing hundreds of jobs. In Guadalajara, Jalisco's capital, a new group devoted to recruiting startups expects to have 10 new companies in the region by year-end, with another 60 in the pipeline. And the landlord of choice for many startups, the shared-office juggernaut WeWork, said it has opened five locations and now serves 6,000 workers after debuting in Mexico City last September. U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to reduce immigration to the United States, including new constraints on H-1B visas for skilled workers - which many tech companies rely on for attracting foreign talent - have prompted countries ranging from China to Canada to step up recruiting tech workers and startup companies that might once have found a home in the United States. For Mexico, there is an added urgency: more than 600,000 immigrants of Mexican origin are currently covered by the U.S. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which offers protection from deportation for illegal immigrants brought to the United States as children. Those individuals, known as "Dreamers," may soon have to look for work abroad as a result of the Trump administration's September decision to let DACA expire. "This may be a good soft landing for people who are incredibly well prepared and may be able to take advantage of building their American Dream back in Mexico," said Bismarck Lepe, chief executive of Wizeline, a San Francisco tech firm with 260 employees in Mexico City and Guadalajara. Wizeline has invited Dreamers, who could now face deportation, to apply for jobs that would allow them to work in Mexico for a year before obtaining the necessary visa to return to the United States. Wizeline plans to use the L1 and TN visas, the latter of which is a visa covered by the North American Free Trade Agreement that allows citizens of Canada and Mexico to work in the United States for business purposes. To be sure, it is not yet clear if the benefit to Mexico's tech industry will be deep or long-lasting. The fate of the Dreamers remains uncertain as Congress could still pass legislation continuing the program. Mexican government statistics have not so far shown an uptick in temporary residence cards granted to foreign workers, suggesting that most prospective U.S. H-1B visa applicants are not yet looking south. (Follow Trumps impact on tech, energy, environment, healthcare, immigration and the economy at The Trump Effect https://www.reuters.com/trump-effect) SIMPLE PITCH Nonetheless, Mexico's tech sector has been adding jobs at a healthy rate in recent years, and all signs point to continued strength. Software job growth this year in Mexico's three largest metropolitan areas - Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey - hit 8.8 percent, 7 percent and 10 percent, respectively, according to data compiled by LinkedIn. That is up from respective annual growth of 6.8 percent, 4.6 percent and 6.8 percent in 2016, LinkedIn told Reuters. "Where there is a strong engineering presence and opportunity, at some point it makes more sense to go to the market itself and establish an office there," said Steve McPherson, senior manager of software development for Amazon.com. The company has not disclosed the size of its technical team in Mexico, but McPherson said it is hiring aggressively. Facebook, meanwhile, has launched three programs this year in the Mexican capital, including a partnership with Dev.F, a local coding academy. These programs are the groundwork for a potential tech expansion into Mexico by the world's largest social media network, said Dev.F co-founder Manuel "Eme" Morato. Facebook now has close to 100 employees in Mexico. In Guadalajara, local nonprofit StartupGDL launched a program earlier this year to attract young, high-growth potential tech startups to the region. The pitch is simple: universities in Jalisco graduate between 7,000 and 8,000 engineers each year. The cost of living and wages are low by comparison to Silicon Valley. Guadalajara offers direct flights to the Bay Area and is only two hours ahead of California. And immigration into Mexico is easy for tech workers. Thus far in 2017, five foreign companies have opened offices in Guadalajara, according to StartupGDL, and the organization expects three to five more by year-end. "I look for people who are mission-focused, and I saw a lot of that down there," said Pat Calhoun, chief executive of Espressive, a Santa Clara, California, tech firm that opened an office in Guadalajara in March. Pablo Lemus, mayor of Zapopan, a city in Jalisco that is home to companies including Oracle and the electronics manufacturer Flex, estimates that 40 to 50 startups may open offices in the city this year and next. DREAMER OPPORTUNITY Some companies are focused specifically on recruiting Dreamers. "They are highly capable people, bilingual in most cases, who have a very valiant experience," said Luis Aguirre, vice president of government relations for contract electronics manufacturer Sanmina Corp, which has a large presence in Jalisco. "We will be gaining a great pool of talent." Zapopan has begun a campaign to attract Dreamers, placing brochures in Mexican consulates in the United States, said Lemus, the mayor. Employment in the tech sector in Jalisco has climbed steadily in recent years and is projected to reach 115,000 jobs in 2017, up from 105,000 in 2015, said Jaime Reyes, the states secretary of innovation, science and technology. The state is set to capitalize even further as Trump's immigration crackdown takes effect, Jalisco Governor Aristoteles Sandoval told Reuters, even though some tech companies are keeping quiet about their plans in the delicate U.S. political climate. Firms outside the United States are trying to capitalize on the Trump administration's changes to the H-1B visa program, which has become a much slower and more cumbersome route to obtaining a U.S. work permit. This year, applications for H-1B visas declined for the first time in five years. Satyen Timbadia, an Indian who owns a midsize IT outsourcing company in Mexico, said the H-1B restrictions influenced his decision to expand a planned engineering and design center in Guadalajara, which will accommodate 250 to 300 workers. "Trump has done only one thing - make life easier for us," said Timbadia, CEO of Daksha Consulting. At Wizeline, one of the key benefits of operating in Mexico has been the ability to attract and relocate foreign workers. Since opening offices there in 2014, the company has brought in workers from France, India and China, and other countries. In August, Wizeline relocated Egyptian software engineer Kareem Salah, 22. Salah was able to move to Mexico from Egypt within a month of graduating from college in Cairo and getting a job offer from Wizeline. "It was extremely easy," Salah said. (Reporting by Salvador Rodriguez in San Francisco and Julia Love in Mexico City; Editing by Jonathan Weber, Frank Jack Daniel and Bill Rigby) By John Ruwitch and Anita Li WUHAN, China, Oct 17 (Reuters) - In the mid 1980s, as a wave of economic reforms swept China, Qi Jing's parents fled the poverty of their farming village to seek opportunity in the bustling city of Wuhan. Her father found a job as a glass cutter, and later as a security guard, while her mother took care of their home. Thirty years later, in a country transformed, Qi headed in the reverse direction in search of her own future. Soft-spoken and rail thin, Qi grew up a city girl whose only inkling of the hardship her parents and grandparents knew came during annual trips back to their village in Henan province. In college, Qi majored in English and grew to love romantic British literature. One of her favourite books was Jane Austen's "Emma". She was attracted by the main character, a woman of strength and individuality. She wanted to study sociology in graduate school, but failed to make it into the school of her choice. Instead, she applied for a programme to turn fresh graduates into rural officials. She had been a red-scarf-wearing Young Pioneer as a child - like almost all her classmates - and then a member of the Communist Youth League in her teens. When a college professor suggested she take the next step and join the Communist Party it seemed like the logical thing to do. As did going to work for the party. "I've all along been in touch with what my advantages are, where my abilities lie," she said. "And in going through certain experiences," she added, "I've discovered what kind of profession I'm suited to. This is how my dream has become more and more clear." Qi moved from Wuhan, in central China, to a nearby village to be the assistant to the local party boss. It was an eye-opening experience, with a heavy work load and problems far more complex than she'd imagined. Two years later she moved to Putuan, a rural township further afield, to run the local branch of the Communist Youth League, the organization in charge of cultivating future party members. "I really wanted to explore the flashpoints of humanity. In college it was all theoretical." The villagers posed complicated challenges, but sometimes so did her superiors in the system in which she worked. She felt she had a more open mind, and more creative ideas than some older officials up the chain of command. Last year, she helped the township organise its first lotus flower festival to attract tourists. She contacted a photo studio and spent her own money and a weekend having photos of herself taken in traditional robes, hair extensions flowing, among the lotus fields. She posted the photos on the messaging app WeChat. Local media picked up the story, dubbing her the "goddess party secretary" - and the pictures went viral. But five years into her new life in the countryside and approaching the age of 30, Qi feels like she's nearing a crossroads. She would like to find a boyfriend and get married, but her attempts to date rural boys haven't panned out. A long-distance relationship with someone in Wuhan, an hour away, doesn't seem practical. "I used to be fairly optimistic, but now I'm neutral," she said. "At a certain age, one's opportunities get fewer and fewer, especially for women when it comes to your work and family choices. You must face them all." (Editing by Philip McClellan) By Ruma Paul DHAKA, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Bangladesh allowed two journalists from Myanmar detained while reporting about fleeing Rohingya Muslims to fly home on Tuesday and was dropping charges against them, their lawyer said. Minzayar Oo and Hkun Lat were picked up from the Cox Bazar's region in early September because they were working as journalists on tourist visas, police said. They were released on bail after calls from Germany's GEO magazine, which had assigned Minzayar Oo to cover the influx of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, as well as rights groups. "Its so good to be free again," Minzayar Oo, one of Myanmar's most prominent photographers, told Reuters soon after his plane landed in the Thai capital of Bangkok. Bangladesh authorities had begun the process to drop the charges against the pair, their lawyer, Jyotirmoy Barua, said. Minzayar Oo has worked for various media outlets, covering Myanmar's emergence from military rule. He had previously worked as a contractor with Reuters. Hkun Lat is also a well-known photographer in Myanmar and has won prizes for his coverage of conflict in frontier regions. About 582,000 refugees from Myanmar have poured into Bangladesh since Aug. 25, when attacks by Rohingya militants on security posts triggered an army crackdown in response. (Additional reporting by Andrew Marshall in BANGKOK; Editing by Sanjeev Miglani and Clarence Fernandez) ANKARA, Oct 17 (Reuters) - A bomb blast wrecked a bus carrying police officers on Tuesday in the southern Turkish province of Mersin, injuring 18 people in an attack that security sources blamed on Kurdish militants. Seventeen of those hurt were police officers, Deputy Prime Minister and government spokesman Bekir Bozdag told parliament, branding it a terrorist attack. "Turkey's battle against terror will continue under any circumstances in a strong and determined way," Bozdag said. Security sources said militants of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) were believed to have carried out the attack. They also said that none of those wounded were in a critical condition. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the bombing. Local mayor Burhanettin Kocamaz told broadcaster Haberturk the attack took place on a street where the local governor's office was located and had hit the police vehicle as it passed. Images from NTV showed smoke billowing from the area, in Mersin's Yenisehir district. Ambulances, police and fire trucks were sent to the site of the attack, security sources said. Turkey is battling a three-decade insurgency in its mainly Kurdish southeast. The PKK frequently carries out bomb attacks on security forces in the southeast and elsewhere. The PKK is considered a terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union as well as by Turkey. More than 40,000 people, most of them Kurds, have died since it first took up arms against the state in 1984. (Reporting by Ali Kucukgocmen, Tuvan Gumrukcu, Daren Butler; Editing by David Dolan and Gareth Jones) LONDON, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Britain said on Tuesday it had summoned the Chinese ambassador in recent days to express its concern that a British rights activist was denied entry to Hong Kong last week. "We are very concerned that Ben Rogers, a UK national, was denied entry into Hong Kong on 11 October in absolute disregard of the 'one country, two systems' principle," Foreign Office minister Mark Field said in parliament. "Foreign Office director-general for economic and global issues summoned the Chinese ambassador on this issue over the past few days." (Reporting by William James; editing by Stephen Addison) By Nellie Peyton DAKAR, Oct 17 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Sierra Leone will auction one of the world's largest diamonds to fund development projects in the impoverished community where it was found, the group managing the sale said on Tuesday. The 709-carat gem, named the "peace diamond", was found in the eastern Kono region in March by a Christian pastor who handed it over to the West African country's government to sell. The Rapaport Group, an international diamond trading network, will auction the gem for free in hopes that it will set an example for other diamond sales to benefit the countries from which they come, said chairman Martin Rapaport. "This diamond is going to help the poorest people in the world. It stimulates the industry to think about what they're selling," Rapaport told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. A first auction for the egg-sized stone fell flat in May when Sierra Leone rejected the highest bid of $7.8 million. It hopes to earn more at a new auction in New York on Dec. 4. More than 50 percent of the proceeds will directly fund clean water, electricity, schools, medical facilities, roads, and more in Sierra Leone, particularly in the village of Koryardu where the diamond was found, the Rapaport Group said in a statement. A government spokesman was not immediately available for comment. Diamonds fuelled a decade-long civil war in Sierra Leone, ending in 2002, in which rebels forced civilians to mine the stones and bought weapons with the proceeds, leading to the term 'blood diamonds'. The United Nations lifted a ban on diamond exports from Sierra Leone in 2003, but the multi-million dollar sector is still plagued by smuggling. (Reporting By Nellie Peyton; Editing by Ros Russell; Please credit Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, womens rights, trafficking, property rights, and climate change. Visit www.trust.org) BEIRUT, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Iran is ready to do business with U.S. oil and gas companies, oil minister Bijan Zanganeh said on Tuesday, according to SHANA, the news site of the Iranian oil ministry. "American companies can come to Iran and benefit so Mr. Trump won't be upset," Zanganeh said, referring to U.S. President Donald Trump, according to SHANA. "They've (the United States) put up obstacles for American companies to come to Iran," he said. "We don't have any restrictions for working or negotiating with American companies with the intention of developing the oil and gas resources of Iran. If they want, we are ready to negotiate with them tomorrow." Trump struck a blow against the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement last Friday in defiance of other world powers, choosing not to certify that Tehran is complying with the deal and warning he might ultimately terminate it. Trump announced the major shift in U.S. policy in a speech in which he detailed a more aggressive approach to Iran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its support for extremist groups in the Middle East. His Iran strategy angered Tehran and put Washington at odds with other signatories of the accord - Britain, France, Germany, Russia, China and the European Union - some of which have benefited economically from renewed trade with Iran. (Reporting by Babak Dehghanpisheh; Editing by Adrian Croft) By Dan Levine and Yeganeh Torbati SAN FRANCISCO/WASHINGTON, Oct 17 (Reuters) - A U.S. judge on Tuesday blocked President Donald Trump's latest bid to impose restrictions on citizens from several countries entering the United States, which would have taken effect this week. The open-ended ban, announced last month, targeted people from Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Chad and North Korea, as well as certain government officials from Venezuela. It was the third version of a policy that had previously targeted some Muslim-majority countries but had been restricted by the courts. Tuesday's ruling sets up another high stakes battle over Trump's executive authority which legal experts expect will ultimately land in the U.S. Supreme Court. Trump's first travel ban in January caused chaos and protests at U.S. airports before judges halted it. The state of Hawaii sued to block Trump's latest travel restrictions, arguing that federal immigration law did not give him the authority to impose them on six of those countries. Hawaii did not challenge entry restrictions relating to North Korea and Venezuela. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson in Honolulu said Hawaii was likely to succeed in proving that Trump's latest travel ban violates federal immigration law. The policy "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the entry of more than 150 million nationals from six specified countries would be 'detrimental to the interests of the United States,'" Watson wrote. The White House in a statement said the ruling was "dangerously flawed" and that it was confident the courts would ultimately uphold Trump's policy. "These restrictions are vital to ensuring that foreign nations comply with the minimum security standards required for the integrity of our immigration system and the security of our nation," the statement said. The Justice Department called Watson's ruling "incorrect" and said it would appeal "in an expeditious manner." Following the ruling, the U.S. State Department instructed embassies and consulates around the world to "resume regular processing of visas" for citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, a department official said on condition of anonymity. The department will carry out the proclamation for North Korea and Venezuela "with the objective of maximizing national security," the official said, because the order did not apply to restrictions on those countries. As a candidate, Trump had promised "a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States." In announcing the newest travel restrictions, the White House had portrayed them as necessary consequences for countries that did not meet new requirements for vetting of immigrants and issuing of visas. Those requirements were shared in July with foreign governments, which had 50 days to make improvements if needed, the White House said. A number of countries made improvements by enhancing the security of travel documents or the reporting of passports that were lost or stolen. Others did not, sparking the restrictions. Immigrant advocacy groups cheered the Hawaii ruling. "We're glad, but not surprised, that President Trump's illegal and unconstitutional Muslim ban has been blocked once again," Omar Jadwat, director of the American Civil Liberties Union Immigrants Rights Project, said in a statement. The ACLU and other groups have filed separate challenges to Trump's policy in a Maryland federal court. A ruling is still pending. In the Hawaii case, the judge said that the ban's national security rationale was undermined by not knowing how the president settled on the countries designated by the ban. The judge also said the proclamation likely runs afoul of a prohibition in immigration law on nationality-based discrimination in issuing visas. Watson had blocked Trump's second travel ban in March. In a statement on Tuesday, Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said: "Today is another victory for the rule of law." Kiyanoush Razaghi, an immigration attorney with the Catholic Legal Immigration Network who has many Iranian clients, said Iranians still have problems when applying for U.S. visas, including particularly lengthy wait times for security checks. Razaghi said he has told his clients: "You can celebrate, there is no travel ban right now, but be careful because that doesn't mean you are going to get a visa in a reasonable amount of time." (Additional reporting by Andrew Chung in New York and Mica Rosenberg, Lawrence Hurley and Roberta Rampton in Washington; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Tom Brown, Grant McCool) A Chief purohita of a provincial body due to be dissolved shortly had celebrated his birthday on a grand scale at his office recently. After cutting the birthday cake, the provincial politico had fed pieces of cake to the members of his staff. He had even sent pieces of the birthday cake to the employees who could not attend the party. The politico had held this birthday party at public expense as this could be the last birthday that he would be able to celebrate in office, informed sources said. A top British official, who was in Sri Lanka in view of Galle Dialogue at the invitation of Sri Lanka Navy, speaks, about the global importance of Sri Lankas strategic positioning and the expansion of Chinas trading activities. Judge Advocate General UK Jeff Blackett said Chinas expansion from a trade perspective should be welcomed. The First Galle Dialogue was held in 2010 under the leadership of then Navy Commander Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe and at the direction of former Defence Secretary Gothabaya Rajapaksa as a post conflict reach out to the world with confidence and competence. Excerpts: Q How do you view Sri Lankas strategic positioning in the Indian Ocean? It is clearly very important, particularly with the expansion of China and Chinese trade routes. If you look at the map of trade and track where overarching ships move, a huge number of world trades takes place through the south of Sri Lanka. That puts Colombo into a strategically very important place. It is not only about trade. There are a lot of crimes in the sea- drug smuggling, peoples smuggling and arms smuggling heading towards East Africa. Again, all these put Colombo in the axis. The other things are also important. The 99-year lease of the Hambantota Port demonstrates how significantly China thinks about Sri Lanka. The West should take note of that. We should pay attention to it. Q When you say the West should take note of that, what do you mean? We have to engage more closely. One of the issues we discussed in the conference (Galle Dialogue) is combatting crimes through cooperation. Cooperation means we have to get on with each other. One way of doing it is using the points around the globe. I think Sri Lanka is a place where you need to have cooperation. From a British perspective, it is sensible that we enhance our political presence here. Q Actually, how can Sri Lanka manage its relations to get the maximum benefit out of this situation? Sri Lanka can do so by telling the world that it is a hub. As a hub, it can tell that the world needs to be here to conduct trade, to protect trade, to combat crimes, and to talk to other colleagues here. Really, Colombo is a diplomatic hub for everybody to meet. Q How does the West view Chinese investments in the development of ports in Sri Lanka? I am not representing the British government in this instance. But, certainly, I would not criticise China for what they are doing. China is trying to reach out. They are trying to develop their economy. They are trying to do it through trade. I wont criticise that. The more they influence here, the less influence we may have here. This will make it more difficult for us to trade because trade is dominated by China. If there is expansion from a trade point of view, that should be welcome. The competition between us and China should be through trade, not through violence. Q This has placed Sri Lanka in the spotlight with China, India and the United States harbouring their interests. How can Sri Lanka stand up to the situation in your view? It is a hub. If you take, for example, air travel, Dubai has positioned itself as a hub. Now, if you want to fly anywhere, you will have to fly to Dubai. I think, as far as trade and fighting crimes are concerned, Colombo can position itself as a hub or a host. Q How do you define the role meant for Sri Lanka Navy in this instance? I think Sri Lanka Navy is going to have transition from fighting war to something else. The war fighting Navy it was during the recent troubles where they had to have a naval force which was to counter the threat. Theyre going to have transition to being something else. Now, what are they going to be? They still need to protect their own waters, they still need to protect their own fishing fleet, and they still need to protect the Exclusive Economic Zone. They still need to do all those things, they still need to provide protection within their territorial waters targeting crimes. Q What do you think of Sri Lanka Navys experience in countering terrorism? Sri Lanka Navy has a lot of experience in countering the scourge of threats which other Navies are finding elsewhere in the world- suicide attacks, attacks by large numbers of small vessels. They got practical experience in that. That is something they can help with the other Navies to develop their counter-terrorist activities. Q What is your impression about Sri Lanka Navy in dealing with terrorism? I visited Trincomalee. I have seen the Navy. When I was up there, I was briefed about all the naval engagements during recent troubles. Sri Lanka Navy suffered serious casualties. I think they learnt from their experience. By the end of troubles, they have become a very professional naval force. Q What is the kind of contribution it can make in combatting crimes such as piracy? Piracy is very difficult to combat, as you know. Piracy is a different issue from terrorism. Terrorists are likely to attack you for a political point. But, pirates are trying to capture for economic advantage. Two different roads are required to counter them because it is not something explored by me being here. I do not know how strong Sri Lanka Navy is in countering piracy. But, I know they can certainly provide great assistance and advice in countering terrorism. Q You mentioned that you went to Trincomalee. How significant is the habour there? I observed the flour mill and the petroleum tanks. It is a wonderful deep harbour. It is up in the north east. Trade routes come down to the south. I am not quite sure how significant it is for trade. There is certainly going to be a lot of growth to be generated. I met the Governor there. I was told the flour mill contributed US $ 1.1 billion to the economy. It is a significant benefit to the economy. There are so many interests around it. It is the second biggest deep sea harbour in the world. I think it is important that Sri Lanka itself investigates the allegations quickly. If there is evidence against people, then they must be brought to account If you do not have some form of reconciliation and accountability, there will be people having grudges forever. Q In a war situation, it is argued that human rights violations are unavoidable. Sri Lanka is facing these allegations. What is your view? First, I will talk about the UK experience. In the UK, we had long conflicts with Afghanistan and Iraq. There were serious allegations of abuse by the British troops during the conflict. We have had a couple of cases. One is the case in which a young Iraqi boy was taken into custody by the British troops. Three days late, he was dead. It was absolutely clear that the British soldiers killed him. It was impossible to prove. Nobody was brought to book. That generated the significant amount of concern in the UK. A lot of other allegations were made. The International Criminal Court (ICC), to which the UK is a signatory, received complaints as well. If the state is unwilling to deal with its own people, then the ICC can step in. It is important that we, in Britain, dealt with our own people. We set up something called Iraqi Historic Allegation Team (IHAT). They received over 200 complaints which they investigated. Equally, we have set up another organisation to investigate allegations in Afghanistan. We are coming to end of IHAT period. A large number of allegations have proved to be false. There are some allegations of abuses that need to be dealt with. In any country, there is going to be claims and counter-claims of abuse. In any conflict, there will be abuses. It is inevitable. People, being in operation for a long time and desensitised, may be killing unlawfully. The services themselves need to investigate what happened. It gives public the confidence. That is very much the British perspective. How do I see that in Sri Lanka? There have been allegations of issues in the battlefield- abuses, disappearances of people, torture etc. I think it is important that Sri Lanka itself investigates these allegations quickly. If there is evidence against people, then they must be brought to account. If you do not have some form of reconciliation and accountability, there will be people having grudges forever. Reconciliation and accountability is somehow important. There will be many false allegations. Q Is it natural that false allegations come out? Yes, of course. It is better to have a mechanism to get rid of those allegations quickly. In a message of greetings to the19th National Congress of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), General Secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (CPSL) DEW Gunasekara said that despite the collapse of socialism in Europe and the advent of neo-liberalism, China has steered its new economic strategy aggressively and undeterred by negative developments globally and geo-politically. The vision of Deng Xiaoping paved the way for Chinas vast and fast strides in development, reaching its turning point in 2010 when it became the second largest economy in the world, he added. When the 21st Congress of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka met in Colombo, during the period September 29th to October 1st through a Special Resolution moved by the General Secretary, Comrade DEW Gunasekara decided to convey the following message of revolutionary greetings to the National Congress of the Communist Party of China and through it to its core leader Comrade Xi Jinping, the General Secretary and to the Central Committee. Gunasekara, who is also a former Cabinet minister, and Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee said, The relations between the Communist Party of China and the Communist Party of Sri Lanka can be traced back to the pre-revolutionary days of China when the founding leaders of our two Parties had established contacts and communications, he said. The relations between the Communist Party of China and the Communist Party of Sri Lanka can be traced back to the pre-revolutionary days of China when the founding leaders of our two Parties had established contacts and communications Soon after the revolution in 1949, the relations between our two parties were consolidated by a series of meetings between our two leaderships. It is with great pride that we recall the days when our Party carried on a consistent and uninterrupted campaign for the recognition of new China and also the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two Countries. The Rubber-Rice Agreement between Sri Lanka and China in 1952 was initiated with the fullest backing of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, both within Parliament and outside. The anti-Chinese trends that emerged at the instance of Imperialist pressures were frustrated by the ideological offensive of the Sri Lankan Communists, he pointed out. With the new economic strategy of reforms and the openings in 1978, saw China enter a new phase of accelerated development. The exchange of views between our two Parties at the highest level of our leaderships reinforced and strengthened the relations between our two countries and our two Parties. Lifting 800 million people out of poverty within the shortest period of time has amazed the International community and thereby China has earned the love and admiration of the peoples, the world over. Strictly adhering to principles of Marxism and upholding its long-term perspective of Socialism, the Communist Party of China has infused courage and confidence in the working people, the world over. Its policy of peace and development as applied to its bold initiative of Belt andRoad has created confidence in the developing economies, Gunasekara stressed. The co-operation extended by China towards the spheres of socio-economic-cultural development of Sri Lanka has strengthened our feelings of fraternity and solidarity. The traditional relations between our two peoples over several centuries have now been consolidated on a sounder basis of mutual understanding. The 21st National Congress of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka expresses its determination and wishes for further consolidation of fraternal relations between our two Parties, he said. It is the fervent wish of the 21st National Congress of our Party that the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China will bring more victories to the Chinese People. The 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China is being convened at a time when the world community is facing unprecedented formidable global challenges. The Communist Party of China accomplishing its internationalist duty and role has already taken meaningful steps as solutions to those global challenges. China as a decisive factor in the world development through the deliberations and decisions at the 19th National Congress shall show the way forward guiding the destinies of the posterity. It is the wish of the Sri Lankan Communists that the 19th National Congress will be another landmark Congress in the history of the Communist Party of China, Gunasekara concluded. Labours Jeremy Corbyn-backing youth wing has voted to quit Nato - branding it an imperialist institution presided over by fascist Donald Trump. Labour Youth passed a motion which tore into the military alliance, which it blamed for waging wars of aggression and fuelling racism. It comes just weeks after Mr Corbyn hinted he would be unwilling to send tanks and troops in to help our Nato allies in a war, might just give diplomatic solidarity instead. Nato was set up in the aftermath of the Second World War and has been credited with helping to foster peace and security in the West. UK, (Daily Mail), 16 October 2017 At a minimum, one may see the Wests disconnect from economics reflected in Che Guevaras immortalized visage, which adorns everything from college dorm rooms to a new stamp issued by the Republic of Ireland. (You can see a picture of the honor here.) The most familiar image of Guevara, who was born in Argentina to a father of part-Irish ancestry, entered the public canon through the hand of Irish artist Jim Fitzpatrick. The Irish post office chose to fete Guevara, it said, because he represents the quintessential left-wing revolutionary. What has not penetrated the West are the revolutionarys crimes, from sham trials and executions to his pervasive racism (although Irish senator Neale Richmond did protest that Guevara is a barbaric interrogator, jailer and executioner of hundreds of supposed class enemies). Among them is his economic record during his years in Cuban government, before he made the fateful decision to spread the revolution in Bolivia. Ed West reviews some of this record in a new essay for Religion & Liberty Transatlantic: Aside from his armed struggle, this bourgeois Argentine brought ruin upon ordinary Cubans, implementing economic policies that had already proved destructive in other countries and installing a dreadfully oppressive regime. As Cubas Finance Minister and President of the National Bank, Che was in a position to implement his own socialist economic program. Guevara thought capitalist self-interest was evil, but his plan to use moral incentives to encourage workers led to widespread absenteeism and a fall in productivity. He expressed no interest in economics, other than the Marxism he believed to be scientific but which was, paradoxically, a faith. One reporter commented that in a sense he was, like some early saint, taking refuge in the desert. Only there could the purity of the faith be safeguarded from the unregenerate revisionism of human nature. Guevara spearheaded an effort to diversify the Cuban economy from its competitive advantage, sugar production, to a form of autarky that floundered badly. Che later admitted, we committed in our conception of the development of industry and agriculture we evolved a plan based on the hope of becoming self-sufficient in a whole series of consumer products and of medium industry which, however, could easily have been obtained in friendly countries. Guevara saw Cubas reliance on the sugar industry as an imperialist design. Even after Castro was forced to return to sugar as a staple, the yields did not meet expectations. As a result of policies Che pioneered and Castro modified, Cubans saw much of Latin America surpass their living standards. In 1959, when Castro took power, GDP per capita for Cuba was some $2,067 a year, writes Tim Worstall in Forbes. By 1999, 40 years later, Cuba had advanced hardly at all, to $2,307. This is to say nothing of the far worse forms of state repression. Thirty years ago, R.J. Rummel calculated the number of Cubans executed by Castro at 35,000 to 141,000. Even today, West writes at for Religion & Liberty Transatlantic, Freedom House still rates Cubas political rights and civil liberties among the worst on earth. A mystic who placed his faith in a false religion, Guevara believed Cuba would imbue human nature with a communist consciousness, creating a new world where what we call material disincentives will be unnecessary, [and] that every worker will feel the urgent need to support the revolution and will thus experience work as a pleasure. No one has yet succeeded in this task, and the human beings subjected to Marxisms grip experienced more severe disincentives. Marxisms primary problem is not economics but anthropology. If we then inquire as to the source of this mistaken concept of the nature of the person we must reply that its first cause is atheism, wrote Pope John Paul II in Centesimus Annus. Not only is it wrong from the ethical point of view to disregard human nature, which is made for freedom, but in practice it is impossible to do so. Where society is so organized as to reduce arbitrarily or even suppress the sphere in which freedom is legitimately exercised, the result is that the life of society becomes progressively disorganized and goes into decline. Yet Che continues his march as a modern idol. West writes, Che sells because he is, more than anything, a rebel figure, but he is also a pseudo-religious one for a secular age, a fake saint. His essay is a warning that societies losing their grounding in the Western patrimony, and inclining toward atheism, often lionize the authors of societal decline before following their downward-sloping footsteps. You can read Ed Wests full essay here. Agency of the Year Leo Burnett Sri Lanka: (Left to Right) Kumudini Gomes Head of People & Culture, Rochelle Jayawardene, Murtaza Tajbhoy Chief Strategy Officer, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka, Selonica Perumal Director, Publicis Sri Lanka,Ranil de Silva Managing Director, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka, Stuart Deckker, Rinesh Jayarathne, Lalindra Nanayakkara Executive Creative Director,Arosha Perera Chief Executive Officer, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka, Roshan Fernando, Ikram Mohideen, Athula Kathriarachchi Senior Creative Director, Lakmina Ranasinghe Leo Burnett Sri Lanka, the local office of the global advertising network Leo Burnett Worldwide was recently named the Agency of the Year at this years Effie Awards Programme. Leo Burnett Sri Lanka added credentials to its standing as Sri Lankas leading creative agency by securing the coveted Agency of the Year effectiveness in creative communications, which is revered as a top industry accolade. The award was received by Ranil de Silva and the agency team, in the presence of a distinguished gathering of guests and professionals from across the local marketing communications industry. The Effie Awards Programme is renowned by advertisers and agencies alike, as one of the most eminent and prestigious awards shows in the local and global industry. The Effies recognizes any and all forms of marketing communications, that contribute to a brands success. Launched by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) in 2008 in collaboration with the Global Effies, the Effie Awards has become a highlight in the marketing communications industry to celebrate creative excellence which is effective and delivers tangible results for a brand. This year, five of the agencys campaigns which stood out creatively and were successful delivering tangible results were shortlisted by the jury comprising a cross section of industries and was chaired by Imal Fonseka, Group CEO of Fairway Holdings. The campaigns shortlisted were UNICEFs communication titled Uniting the Country to end Child Abuse, White Cane Day Innovation for the Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society. The corporate campaign for Commercial Bank titled Bank for Your Success, the national activation conducted for Womens day by Velvet titled Liyaka Mahima and the internationally recognized initiative to manage the garbage issue at Siripada which was termed Merit Bin. Uniting the Country to end Child Abuse was awarded as a finalist in the Non-Profit category,f or the manner in which it rallied the Sri Lankan public to come together to end child abuse across the country. The White Cane Day innovation on TV was awarded as a finalist in three categories - Media Idea, Non-Profit and Small Budget, for being a poignant reminder to the public to register as eye donors. This campaign helped the society to emerge as the Most Effective Brand of the Year at the Effies. The Bank for Your Success campaign helped strengthen the corporate image of the bank and was selected as a finalist in two categories; Finance and Corporate Reputation. The Velvet Liyaka Mahima campaign was named a finalist in the new Seasonal Marketing category. The Merit Binwas created on behalf of the Ratnapura Provincial Council to find a sustainable and effective solution to address the issue of garbage at Sri Pada. The campaign was submitted in the Non-Profit category at the awards show and was awarded a Bronze Effie. Commenting on the agencys success at the Effie Awards, Ranil de Silva Managing Director, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka said: This recognition is a very gratifying reward as it reinforces our creative standing as the countrys leading agency with the honour of being results driven. It also proves a very strong belief of ours that outstanding creative work delivers invaluable results to its brands. My team and I are honoured to have been named the Agency of the Year at this years Effie Awards Programme. This award truly belongs to our Chief Strategy Officer Murtaza Tajbhoy and his Brand Panning team who have tirelessly worked to ensure the efficacy of our communications. At Leo Burnett, our work is rooted in our Human Kind philosophy, a belief that creativity has the power to change human behaviour and to inspire positive action. I would like to thank the jury for bestowing this prestigious accolade, which is an invaluable addition to our awards portfolio. The Effie Awards show strives to cultivate a culture of accountability amongst the advertising fraternity by recognizing communication campaigns that have delivered tangible results. The Effies recognize that the most important objective of all communication initiatives is to build a brands equity, which ultimately contributes to a consistent stream of revenue. Since 1968 clients and agencies around the world believe that an Effie is a global symbol of achievement. Today the award show honours all forms of effective marketing communications that are produced by companies and individuals as the Effies has a long-standing history of recognizing industry movers and shakers who are delivering creative excellence and strong results for the brands under their purview. The Effies are conducted in all six continents and in over 40 countries. This year, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka celebrates its 18th anniversary. Recently the agency was ranked to be amongst the top 50 agencies in Asia by the industrys respected magazine Campaign Brief. Over the years, the agency has built many powerful brands and meaningful partnerships with its clients, whilst delivering gratifying results and gaining industry recognition in Sri Lanka, the region and globally. The company handles a diverse portfolio of clients and is one of the worlds largest agency networks and a member of the Publicis Groupe, the worlds third largest communications company. SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Is this message correct? W: Yes Text message 8 (Serial number 3842)Samuel to Aloysius- Date : November 17, 2016 Reminder a meeting with RK at 7.30 pm SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Now it appears that Arjun Aloysius had met RK or Ravi Karunanayake whoever that may be, on several times in November 2016, is that correct? W: Yes SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you know what those meetings were about? W: No Text message 9 (Serial number 3769)Samuel to Aloysius- Date : November 22, 2016 Reminder: I do have it on my notes for today RK/ TO DO LIST SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you have any idea what this list was? W: No SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you know who constructed the RK list? W: No SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, it was not by you? W: No SSC Dr Avanti Perera: If that list was not prepared by you, then it appears that this already existed before you came into employment at PTL, is that correct? W: That I cannot comment Text message 10 (Serial number 3766)Samuel to Aloysius- Date : November 22, 2016 We have the A Mahendran to do list SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you know who this A Mahendran was? W: Anjali Mahendran (daughter of Arjuna Mahendran and the wife of Aloysius) SSC Dr Avanti Perera: You are very sure about that, right? W: Yes SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, in this case you are very familiar with the abbreviation as opposed to RK, right? W: I know Anjali Mahendran SSC Dr Avanti Perera: But this says A Mahendran? W: I call her A Mahendran SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So you call her face to face A Mahendran was it? W: No. I meant when I note it down SSC Dr Avanti Perera: And would that be the only person that you would write in abbreviation as A Mahendran? W: Yes SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, since you are very familiar with this Anjali Mahendran, what is this to do list to Anjali Mahendran? At this point Presidents Counsel Anuja Premaratne objected to the question and said that was something relating to his clients wife. The Commission also emphasized that it has nothing to do with the matters relating to Aloysius and his wife. SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you know the name of Anjali Mahendrans father? W: Arjuna Mahendran SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, could it not be him? W: I dont know because I dont do any correspondence for Arjuna Mahendran SSC Dr Avanti Perera: That is so, but this appears to be a file you are reminding Arjun Aloysius about? Anyway we will come to that. Text message 11 (Serial number 3754)Samuel to Aloysius- Date : November 22, 2016 Chairman, awaiting an update on today to do list for Arjuna M and RK SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Now, this text message says Arjuna M, In this case who would be Arjuna M? W: I dont know SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Didnt you just say that you are aware of the father of Anjali Mahendran is Arjuna Mahendran? W: Yes SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, would this not be reference to Arjun Mahendran? W: This just says Arjuna M so I cannot admit that it was Arjuna Mahendran SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, when it was A Mahendran you are familiar that it was Anjali Mahendran but when it was Arjuna M you do not know who that was, is that your position? W: Yes Text message 12 Samuel to Aloysius- Date : November 22, 2016 Legal letter to be delivered to Hon. PMs office SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Again is that your position that you dont know who Hon. PM is? W: No SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you what Hon. Stands for in the abbreviation? W: Not clearly Justice Jayawardena: Now, you have worked with Aloysius for the last few years, right? Other than the time period you were in hospital, you would have worked with Aloysius, right? W: Yes Justice Jayawardena: You would have been talking with him on what things to done for him as well, right? W: Yes Justice Jayawardena: And you would have also told him that you were summoned to give evidence as well, right? W: Yes Justice Jayawardena: And he knew that you were coming to give evidence and we were told that you were here through PTL, right? W: Yes Text message 13 (Serial number 3139) Samuel to Aloysius- Date : January 3, 2017 Meeting at 10 p.m. with RK/new to do list file and AM to do list file will be sent home SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Is this Aloysius home you are referring to? W: Yes SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Would that be around Flower Road? W: Yes Text message 13 (Serial number 3125) Samuel to Aloysius- Date : January 3, 2017 Im just leaving office and going to your flower road residence to deliver both AM and RK files and try to catch Dilshad at the Ministry SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Who is Dilshad at the Ministry whom you were trying to catch? W: Friend of mine and he was in the Ministry of Finance SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you know what the designation of him is? W: He was an assistant SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Whose? W: Not sure. But he was at the Finance Ministry SSC Dr Avanti Perera: And the Finance Minister at that time was Ravi Karunanayake, right? W: Yes Text message 14 (Serial number 3082) Aloysius to Samuel- Date : January 4, 2017 Did you by any chance managed to locate the old RK file SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, it appears to be an old file, right? W: It appears to be. But I have not been exposed to these files. Text message 15 (Serial number 3123) Samuel to Aloysius- Date : January 4, 2017 Just saw you at Ministry dashing into the elevator have a great meeting SSC Dr Avanti Perera: So, would that be again at the Ministry of Finance? Witness was silent SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Because you referred Dilshad at the Ministry. W: Could be the Finance Ministry SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Now you say just saw you, would that be Aloysius? W: Im not sure SSC Dr Avanti Perera: You say Have a great meeting, so do you know what that meeting was about? W: No Text message 16 (Serial number 3111) Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January Good luck with the RK meeting and I hope Mr. Arjuna has a good meeting in this eveningI saw Governor Coomaraswami at the Ministry waiting for the meeting with RK then I saw Arjuna getting into lift. SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Who is this Arjuna? W: I dont know SSC Dr Avanti Perera: You say good meeting SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Now who is this Lasantha (his name transpired earlier and was a Personal Assistant at the Finance Ministry)? W: I dont know Justice Jayawardena: Now, all these texts are from your phone, right? W: Yes Justice Jayawardena: You have no doubt about that, right? W: I cannot recall them exactly Justice Jayawardena: These are extracted from your phone, so at the time you sent these messages you knew what you were talking about, right? W: Yes Text message 17 (Serial number) Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January As per Dilshad there is no London trip scheduled anywhere SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Whose schedule are you referring? Witness was silent SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Could that be the Minister of Finance? W: Not sure At this moment Justice Jayawardena asked Additional Solicitor General Yasantha Kodagoda to put the relevant text messages to the witness as he had admitted that he had sent them. Now witness admits that he had originated the text messages and sent them to Aloysius, so are we to now blindly accept the fact that he had sent them without knowing the meaning of the content, ASG Kodagoda asked. Justice Jayawardena: It is very clear to us exactly who he was talking about. ASG Kodagoda: And he is lying under oath. Justice Jayawardena: We will take the appropriate steps on that. ASG Kodagoda: If the commission is so aware of the fact that he is misleading the Commission, then it would be fine. Justice Jayawardena: It is very clear. ASG Kodagoda: That, he is lying. Justice Jayawardena: That we cannot say now, because that would accuse us for prejudging, but his evidence is very clear. Justice Jayawardena then questioned the witness again and asked whether he knew at the time he was sending these messages about the content and the people he was referring to. The witness answer was affirmative. The witness also said that he cannot recall them at the moment. Text message 18 (Serial number 3130) Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January Meeting with Saman Indika Kumara at 5.30 p.m. SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you know who Saman Indika Kumara was? (former EPF dealer who was interdicted later) W: No Justice Jayawardena: Now, Saman Kumaras name transpired eight or nine times in these text messages, surely you would know who he was? W: No Justice Jayawardena: Havent you read the news papers recently? W: Not really Justice Jayawardena: You dont read newspapers? W: No Justice Jayawardena: Are you aware that Saman Kumara was working at EPF? W: No Justice Jayawardena: Be aware that you are giving evidence under oath and be cautious of the fact that if you lied under oath and if we found that we will take appropriate actions. W: Im not lying Text message 19 Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January Saman is already in the office to meet with you at 3.30 p.m Justice K.T. Chitrasiri: But anyway this text message shows that a person called Saman Kumara had come to visit Aloysius but you dont know him? W: Yes Text message 20 Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January Reminder: 5.30 P.M. a meeting with AM and Lasantha at flower road residency Text message 21 Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January 6 A meeting with Saman Kumara At this moment after perusing the extraction further, Justice Jayawardena asked the witness: Who is this Ravi Karunamurthi? W: Dont know Justice Jayawardena: He also had met Arjun Aloysius many times, was he a primary dealer? W: I dont know Justice Jayawardena: Who is Chanuka Ratwatte, who had met with Aloysius many times? Was he the man who owns the Entrust (Primary Dealer) W: I dont know SSC Dr Avanti Perera: In summary, on several times in January 2017, former EPF dealer Saman Kumara had been scheduled to meet Aloysius, right? Witness didnt answer. Text message 21 Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January 6 Update- Saman Kumara stated you need him to speak with chairman of lotteries board asked if you would be making the meeting or . Justice K.T. Chitrasiri: Now this says that Saman Kumara stated, so stated to whom? He spoke to you, right? W: Yes Justice Jayawardena: Who was Saman Kumara? W: I dont know (Justices smiled in a sarcastic manner) Text message 22 Samuel to Aloysius 2017 January Important meeting with Naveen SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Do you know who Naveen is? W: No SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Have you ever heard of a person called Naveen Anuradha (NSB dealer)? W: No E-mail correspondence - Samuel to Aloysius 2017 March 29 Subject: Meeting boss/RK/reminder/proposed auction for the week SSC Dr Avanti Perera: What is this proposed auction? W: I dont know SSC Dr Avanti Perera was of the view that there was a Treasury-bill auction on March 29 and a treasury-bond auction on April 4, 2017. SSC Dr Avanti Perera: Finally, do you not say that Aloysius had meetings and exchanges of documents relating to business transactions of PTL with the person by the name of RK, Hon PM, AM, broader reference to those names would be Ravi Karunanayake, Prime Minster and Arjuna Mahendran also appears in these text messages including dealers like Saman Indika Kumara, right? W: I cant admit that because I dont know the PTLs trading deals SSC Dr Avanti Perera: But you arranged these meetings W: That was my job Justice Jayawardena: You wrote these text messages on instructions of Aloysius and other people regarding the meetings and other activities of Arjun Aloysius, where he meets RK, AM, PM, right? W: Yes J: So, There is no reason to believe such things did not happen, right? W: Yes J: At any point did Aloysius dispute that these meetings were rubbish? W: No J: Who maintained the RK and AM files? W: I dont know J: Definitely that is within the knowledge of Arjun Aloysius, right? W: Yes probably J: Therefore, Arjun Aloysius maintained files under RK and AM At this point Dr Avanti Perera pointing another text message showed to the Commission to verify the fact that the witness was lying. Samuel to Aloysius Saman Kumara could not contacted so a message copied to Amals phone too SSC Dr Avanti Perera told the Commission at this point that Amal is the brother of Saman Kumara. After the questioning of the Attorney Generals Department concluded, Counsel Chanaka de Silva who appeared on behalf of Arjuna Mahendran drew the attention of the Commission to text messages in the extracted report reflecting about a meeting that had been taken place with Arjun Aloysius and current Governor Coomaraswami as well. Counsel Jeewantha Jayatilleke, who was appearing on behalf of Steve Samuel, then moved to explain the current situation of the witness as Samuels mother had been admitted to Durdens Hospital over a minor stroke. At this moment, when he was questioned by his counsel about his mother, Steve Samuel broke down into sobs while sitting in the witness dock. Samuel said that he is the only person who is there to take care of his family as his brother is handicapped. Samuel pleaded that he was unaware about the names that transpired in the text messages as he had only done what he was asked to do. He also said that he had not maintained any of files on behalf of PTL hence there was no file in the custody of him at the moment. After the conclusion of the evidence of Steve Samuel, while he was getting off from the witness dock, Justice Prasanna Jayawardena in a sarcastic manner quipped to Samuels Counsel Bring him (Samuel) here one day to educate us also on how to forget things, its a remarkable talent (ByShehan Chamika Silva) "Clouds of a bloodless war are hovering over the world. The world is terrified by this... India has a big role to play in this." When Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke these words at the Digital India Week in February 2017, it seems he did so with the knowledge that the "cyber games" are being played in his own backyard. Flash forward to this week, and things have deteriorated to hit a terrifying low with North Korea's deputy ambassador to the United Nations brazenly warning the United States (US) to back off or face a nuclear war that could "break out any moment". Face of this new threat If it breaks out, this nuclear war, however, may well turn out to be far devastating than anything that the world has seen in the past, including the tragedies in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As experts have warned in the recent weeks, Pyongyang today holds the power to carry out a terrifying nuclear attack that would not target a city and a population of hundreds of thousands, but rather wipe out over 90 per cent of the population of the United States in a matter of months. But the execution of any such attack would depend more on Pyongyang's cyber warfare prowess than the brawn of Kim Jong-Un and his quest for amassing massive nuclear warheads. As a MailOnline report explains, future attacks by North Korea may look to cripple the power grids that keep the United States alive by using a nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP) bomb and targeted cyber attacks. The face of North Korea's digital threat As evidenced by the attempted cyber robbery of $1 billion from the New York Federal Reserve in 2016 to the more recent WannaCry ransomware cyber attack that infected more than 300,000 computers in 150 countries, the North Korean threat in digital warfare has grown by leaps and bounds. And according to a report published by Reuters, the responsibility of these attacks lie at the door of a special cell Unit 180 of North Korea's main spy agency. Unit 180 is widely believed to have carried out other daring and successful cyber attacks too in the recent past, leaving officials, internet security experts worried. But from the Indian point of view, what makes this chilling news of the growing powers of Unit 180, and the world silently moving ever closer to a nuclear war, is the realisation that India may very well be at the centre of where all the trouble is brewing. India playing a crucial role? As a New York Times report explains, since 2011 when Kim Jong-Un took over power from his father and former Supreme Leader of North Korea, Kim Jong-il, there has been an increased focus on enhancing Pyongyang's cyber warfare capabilities, and in a short span of time, these attempts have led to North Korea producing some of the world's most deadly hackers. But due to the lack of infrastructure in North Korea, these hackers much like the brains behind Pyongyang's nuclear programme are not developed in North Korea but are identified at an early age for special training and sent to Chinas top computer science programmes. However, that's just the tip of the iceberg, as these hackers then continue to operate from abroad, working from countries with relaxed cybersecurity laws and better internet infrastructure. And all of this is done without leaving any trace of Pyongyang complicity in the attacks. A recent analysis by the cybersecurity firm Recorded Future has found heavy North Korean internet activity in India and has evidence to support that nearly one-fifth of Pyongyangs cyberattacks now originate from India and carried out by hackers physically stationed in the country. These allegations gain more power when put into context with India's historical ties with North Korea. India has in the past trained many North Korean students at its elite institutions who have gone on to join North Korea's nuclear weapons programme. Although in both the cases, India is not directly responsible for aiding North Korea, however, it cannot shrug off its responsibility in indirectly furthering Kim Jong-Un's agenda. India currently has one of the most relaxed cyber laws around the world, and with little funding going towards improving the cyber security apparatus, India and its servers are becoming easy targets for hackers and cyber criminals to route their attacks through. Seventy years of democracy notwithstanding, Indians don't value the system much. Or so it seems according to a Pew Research Centre survey, which says over 55 per cent of its citizens are okay with an "autocracy", that is an undemocratic, authoritarian "rule of one person with absolute power", while more than half of its people, about 53 per cent, "want military rule in their country". Another finding from the Pew survey says over 85 per cent trust the current national government of Narendra Modi. The report said: "In India, where the economy has grown on average by 6.9 per cent since 2012, 85 per cent (of people) trust their national government." The report, based on a survey of 38 countries on the issues of governance and trust, also added that 46 per cent of Indians "somewhat" trusted the government to do what was right. The PTI report on the Pew Research survey says: "The sample size for the face-to-face survey conducted in India was 2,464. Carried out in eight languages, it involved adult population from Delhi and 15 of the 17 most populous states. The fieldwork was done between February 21 and March 10." That one-fourth of Indians want a "strong leader", at least according to the Pew survey, isn't a trend in keeping with the global political fad. While the Pew report adds that nearly half of Russians (over 48 per cent), currently under the Vladimir Putin regime, back governance by a strong leader, that's more than double the global median, which is at 26 per cent, with most of the major European countries voting in favour of stronger democracy and not strong rulers. Another trend that captures the current technocratic push of governments across the world, but particularly those in Asia, clubs India with two other countries that support a technocracy. "Asian-Pacific publics generally back rule by experts, particularly people in Vietnam (67 per cent), India (65 per cent) and the Philippines (62 per cent)," the report said. This is in stark contrast with countries such as Australia in which citizens aren't overwhelmingly in support of technocracies and plutocracies of the elite and the experts. Fifty-seven per cent of Australians are wary of such tendencies in governance, the report. The Pew survey also throws up interesting and glaring ironies in terms of what the respondents, particularly Indians, think about their country. The contradictions are way too stark in case of India because 53 per cent among the Indians (and 52 per cent among South Africans) consider their country as a regional democratic stronghold, while also supporting autocracy and/or military rule. Only 10 per cent of Europeans back military dictatorship, in contrast. "But in these societies, older people (those aged 50 and older) are the least supportive of the army running the country, and they are the ones who either personally experienced the struggle to establish democratic rule or are the immediate descendants of those democratic pioneers," the report added. The Pew survey says over 85 per cent trust the current national government of Narendra Modi. Though, ultimately, democracy was favoured by most as the best way to govern nations, the support for "strong leaders" and their "autocratic" governments is certainly a cause for concern, particularly among Indians. At a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "strong" leadership is proving to be rather shaky on several key fronts - particularly the economy and socio-political fabric of the country - this tendency could be a pointer towards the future of India's immediate and distant future. We need to ask ourselves if favouring a military rule, or autocracy, and trusting the government despite many indicators that there are many reasons to worry and distressingly so, are signs that the matrix of Indian collective conscious is itself undergoing some sort of transformation? After all, pro-regime commentators are openly declaring that "Modinomics will cull the weak and the unviable, leaving India stronger." Moreover, the trend favouring military rule also coincides with the increased politicisation of the Army, and the constant embedding of the military in various political contexts. While the ultra-nationalism narrative makes the most of peddling militaristic viewpoints without actually supporting individual soldiers and whistleblowers within the Army establishment, conflating foreign policy issues and questions of national security and counter-terrorism with the telegenic jingoism of the present ruling dispensation has led to a "middle-class militarisation" of everyday life, consumed via TV debates and political speeches. The Pew Report clearly shows that people with less education (or more misinformation) tilt towards military rule. Is this desire for a strong leadership at the expense of the democratic sentiment, welfare for all, affirmative action for the historically marginalised, food and wage security for the poorer sections, policies that would reduce the income inequality and not widen it further? Is this (hardly latent) desire for autocracy further evident in Indians accepting and normalising erstwhile "fringe Hindutva" figures such as Yogi Adityanath in crucial legislative and governance positions, such as donning the mantle of Uttar Pradesh chief minister? An interesting finding from the Pew report was that those satisfied with the economic performances of their government and their country, were more likely to support democracy. Given the GDP nosediving from 7.9 per cent to 5.7 per cent in just one year, is this fascination with autocracy along expected lines? After all, "vikas" or the development plank, lies almost abandoned and hardline Hindutva seems to be the weapon of choice in the upcoming Assembly elections and the coterminous politicking in states such as Kerala and West Bengal. Fatah: A Sea of Blood Will Create the State of Palestine | Main | The Journalists Bin Laden Could Count On October 16, 2017 Wheres the Coverage? Egyptian Army Destroys Sinai Homes In a widely underreported move, the Egyptian Army began demolishing the homes of civilians in the city of Rafah on Oct. 4, 2017. The move, an Al-Monitor report noted, was part of the third stage of building a border buffer zone with the Gaza Strip (Egypts army destroys Sinai homes to expand Gaza buffer,? Oct. 11, 2017).? The buffer line, the dispatch stated, is part of an attempt to destroy tunnels used by terrorist groups, such as Hamas, to smuggle operatives and materials between Gaza and the Sinai Peninsula. The process has been ongoing since October 2014. In its third phase, as with the preceding two, an area of 500 meters was added. Al-Monitor claimed to have received a copy of the press statement of the governor of northern Sinai, Abdel Fattah Harhoor. Among other things, it said that the third phase of the buffer zones development was essential to protecting Egypts national security and countering terrorism,? Al-Monitor said. Those residents who have been displaced as a result of its construction are facing difficulties in finding alternative housing,? the paper reported. The publication added: Hundreds have resorted to building huts from the remains of houses and palm trees in desert areas in the surroundings of Sheikh Zuweid, Rafah and el-Arish. But their presence in these areas puts their lives at risk because there has been constant military combing and launching of random missiles between the army and the Egyptian branch of the Islamic State, Wilayat Sinai, since 2013.? During the first phase of the buffer zones construction, displaced residents were offered compensation by the Egyptian government. At present, its unknown if compensation of any form will be offered to those forcibly relocated during the ongoing third phase. Egypts decision to construct the buffer zone has been widely ignored by many major Western news outlets. A Lexis-Nexis search of major U.S. news outlets, such as The Washington Post, USA Today and The Baltimore Sun, among others, shows no mention of the recent phase and its accompanying displacement of Egyptian residents due to security concerns. By contrast, as CAMERA has highlighted, Israeli security measures, such as the security barrier, are both well covered and frequently misreported (see here for examples and CAMERA-prompted corrections). Posted by SD at October 16, 2017 09:27 AM Guidelines for posting This is a moderated blog. We will not post comments that include racism, bigotry, threats, or factually inaccurate material. Post a comment OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- With one truck already past its 20-year life expectancy, Ocean Springs firefighters will soon get a new $425,000 firefighting pumper truck. Aldermen included the $425,000 expenditure in the 2018 fiscal year budget, but the truck will come at no cost to taxpayers. Instead, the City will follow the same blueprint as seven years ago -- the last time the fire department obtained a new truck -- and borrow the money from the bank on a 10-year note and pay the annual debt service with funds received from a yearly insurance rebate received from the state, according to City Clerk Shelly Ferguson. The new truck will be a pumper -- or "engine" -- said assistant chief David Wicker, replacing a 21-year-old truck. The last time the OSFD purchased a new truck was in 2010 -- also a pumper, meaning the department will have two pumper trucks less than 10 year old. "They are rated for 20 years," Wicker said, "but we don't like to keep them that long because they are at the very end of their life expectancy. The maintenance begins to get pretty high." Each pumper is capable of carrying up to 1,000 gallons of water and their primary function is -- as their name implies -- pumping water to a fire. Ocean Springs also has one ladder truck, but those only carry a small amount of water, Wicker said. He explained that the central fire station on U.S. 90 (near Wal-Mart) will have the new pumper, the pumper purchased in 2010 is located at the Beaugez station on Government Street not far from Greyhound Stadium, and the ladder truck is based at the Murray station on U.S. 90, west of the Winn Dixie shopping center. Two older pumper trucks are kept in reserve in the event one of the newer ones breaks down. They are both at the end of their life expectancy, as well, Wicker said. Wicker also said they are waiting on Chief Jeffery Ponson to decide on a manufacturer and then the order will be placed. PASCAGOULA, Miss. -- An overnight stabbing at a Pascagoula residence has the Pascagoula Police Department urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward, according to Capt. Doug Adams. Per Adams, at 11:11 p.m. Monday night, police received a call stating a person had been stabbed multiple times at a home located on 3115 Louise St. When officers arrived to the scene, the victim was identified as 26-year-old Michael "Richie" Murphy and an unnamed resident from Pascagoula had been assaulted. According to Adams, Murphy sustained stab wounds to his right and left chest area, the back of his neck, arm, leg, and finger. Murphy was later transported to Singing River Hospital where his injuries were deemed non life-threatening. Investigators are still investigating the incident to determine what caused the assault. Police are asking if any has information regarding to stabbing and assault to please contact the Pascagoula Police Department 228-762-2211 or Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898. With the diversity of our population, climate and food heritage, there are myriad variations on a single recipe. Who first cooked with a specific ingredient? Was the dish based on climatic conditions of the surrounding country, or was it a variation of a European recipe brought to this country by immigrants? All of these questions led me to do some research into some of our best-loved dishes. And I am sure there are many, many versions. What do you bring to a potluck supper, or even an informal family gathering a casserole dish, or maybe a potato salad? Was potato salad one of the prime dishes of early American cuisine? No, it was not, but it became popular in the late 1800s. As men rushed to the Rockies and beyond in search of gold, enterprising Mormons struck it rich by growing potatoes on the new Western lands. These tubers fetched high boomtown prices and provided substantial food. The potato was often referred to as the Irish or white potato, in order to distinguish it from the sweet potato or yam. The potato is indigenous to the Americas. It was first grown in the high valleys of Peru, Bolivia and Chile and eventually began to be cultivated in the mountains of Colorado. Years before, the potato (as a New World plant) was brought to Europe by Columbus. At that time, it was of very little interest to the Europeans. However, by way of Portugal, England and the American colonies, the potato became popular as a vegetable by the mid-1800s, when the westward push began. As an energy-rich source of nourishment and a nearly nonperishable food, potatoes moved across America with the covered wagons. The Mormons began their westward trek in 1846. The enormous wagon train was led by Brigham Young from Nauvoo, Illinois, across Iowa, the vast plains and Great Salt Lake in search of religious freedom. This exodus was massive. It consisted of 3,000 wagons, 30,000 heads of cattle and 15,000 people. Only 11,000 actually reached Utah. These pioneers called their new home Deseret, the Mormon word for honeybee. That was a very good choice, as these people were very industrious and given to hard work. Whenever the women gathered for quilting bees or other community work, one or more of them would bring covered dishes. A special favorite of these pioneering days was a sweet-sour potato salad made with an old-fashioned boiled dressing. At the time, dressings for salads were homemade, as commercial mayonnaise was not available. The name of the dish, Quilters Potato Salad, has endured through the years. It is still a great favorite in Utah and surrounding areas. QUILTERS POTATO SALAD cup sugar 2 teaspoons salt teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoons dry mustard 4 large eggs, lightly beaten 1/3 cup melted butter 1 cup cider vinegar 1 cup heavy cream, whipped 3 pounds new potatoes, boiled, peeled and cut into -inch cubes 4 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and coarsely chopped 4 green onions, trimmed and coarsely chopped 1/3 cup coarsely chopped red pepper Dressing: In the top of a double boiler, combine the sugar, salt, pepper and mustard. Mix in the eggs, then the melted butter, and vinegar. Set the top of the double boiler over simmering water and cook, stirring constantly, for 10 to 12 minutes until mixture is the consistency of mayonnaise. Quickly chill the dressing by setting in an ice bath. When cooked, fold in the whipped cream, and set the dressing aside. Salad: Place the potatoes, eggs, green onions and red pepper in a large bowl. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad mixture and toss well to mix. Cover the salad and chill several hours before serving. Serves 8. Beef steaks accompanied by the Quilters Potato Salad was a special family dinner. Although cows were part of the farm scene, beef did not become a commercial item until the 1870s. Until that time, beef had to be walked to market. Cowboys often drove as many as 3,000 head of cattle from Texas rangelands along the Chisholm Trail to Abilene, Kansas, nearly 1,000 miles away. After months on the trail, their meat was shoe-leather tough. Not the most pleasant eating. Americas early beef cattle were mostly rangy Longhorns, introduced into Texas by Spaniards years earlier. When these Spanish ranchers fled south after Texas independence, they left the Longhorns. As the Americans settled Texas, they bred the Longhorns with other species, such as Herefords. The growth of the railroads put an end to the cattle drives. The invention of the refrigerated railway car by a Detroit butcher, refined by meatpacker Gustavus Swift, revolutionized the meat packing industry. By 1877, Swift had a fleet of 10 refrigerated rail cars. This meant that cattle could be slaughtered locally and shipped across country, wherever there were rail hubs. Adding to the refinement of Texas Longhorns was cross-breeding with meatier imported British cattle. Although we think of early cattle raising consisting of Texas cattle, in the latter part of the 1800s, South Dakota became known for its cattle raising. In 1876, when the gold fever was at its height in South Dakota, there were no cattle on the lush prairies. Only a few remaining buffalo and a few oxen abandoned by settlers moving west roamed the vast grazing lands. Two years later, when the value of grazing land became apparent, there were 100,000 head of cattle in South Dakota. Five years later, the number had risen to 800,000. The new cattle industry appealed to European investors, as there was money in food. The Scots acquired large land holdings and hired hundreds of cowhands. In the late 1800s, a Scottish accent was all that was needed as collateral for a mortgage to start a cattle ranch. By the 1900s, the United States had become a meat-and-potatoes nation. Some people liked mashed potatoes with their steaks; other opted for French fries, baked Idaho potatoes or even potato salad. RICHMOND Democrat Ralph Northam had amassed a sizable fundraising advantage over Republican Ed Gillespie entering October, more than doubling his GOP rival in cash on hand after taking in $7.1 million in September, according campaign finance reports filed this week. As of Sept. 30, Northam, Virginia's current lieutenant governor, had $5.6 million in the bank, compared with a little less than $2.5 million for Gillespie. The former Republican National Committee chairman took in nearly $4.4 million in September. Libertarian Cliff Hyra pulled in $9,053 for the month, ending with $4,280 on hand, according to reports compiled by the Virginia Public Access Project. The reports had to be filed with the state by midnight Monday. With most polls showing Northam slightly ahead in a relatively close race, money could be an important factor in late October and early November when both campaigns are looking to flood the TV airwaves with ads in what is expected to be a low-turnout election. Northam's largest cash donations for the period were $1 million from the Democratic Governors Association, $450,000 from anti-gun violence group Everytown for Gun Safety, $300,000 from the Laborers' Political League Education Fund and $225,000 from the United Food and Commercial Workers. Northam also reported $2.1 million in in-kind contributions, including $873,826 from the Virginia League of Conservation Voters and $704,244 from the Nextgen Climate Action Committee, the clean energy organization spearheaded by billionaire Tom Steyer. Gillespie's top donations for the period were $1 million from the Republican Governors Association, $100,000 from Roanoke businessman Nicholas F. Taubman, $100,000 from Houston Texans owner Robert C. McNair and $100,000 from Northern Virginia homebuilder Dwight C. Schar, a part owner of the Washington Redskins. Former President George W. Bush held fundraisers with Gillespie on Monday in Richmond and in Northern Virginia. Two new polls released Tuesday showed the race tightening with three weeks to go before the Nov. 7 election. A Monmouth University poll found the race virtually neck-and-neck and, showing Gillespie slightly ahead for the first time in the general election. The survey found Gillespie with 48 percent to Northam's 47 percent with Hyra polling at 3 percent. In September, the same poll showed Northam ahead of Gillespie 49 percent to 44 percent. "This has never been more than a five point race in Monmouth's polling, and that means either candidate has a very real shot at winning this thing," Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, said in a news release. New poll results released Tuesday by the Wason Center for Public Policy at Christopher Newport University showed a tight race, with Northam holding a 48 percent to 44 percent lead over Gillespie and Hyra polling at 3 percent. The margin of error was plus or minus 4.2 percentage points. Though Northam took in several big checks from Democratic-aligned interest groups, he far outpaced Gillespie in small-dollar donations. Northam received 6,860 contributions of $100 or less, compared to 2,739 for Gillespie. Quentin Kidd, a political science professor and the director of CNU's Wason Center, said enthusiasm and/or anxiety among Democratic donors has already brought in big money for other Democrats running in special elections since President Donald Trump's victory last year. That trend seems to be continuing with Northam, Kidd said, and money could play a bigger role in a close race with many voters seemingly tuned out. "That gives Northam an advantage because we know that voters haven't been paying attention to this race," Kidd said. "We know that they're overwhelmed by politics right now. So it costs more to reach out to voters now than it might have in the last governor's race." Northam spokesman David Turner said the campaign finance reports show Gillespie has "both funding issues and enthusiasm issues." The latter, Turner said, were on display over the weekend when Gillespie rallied with Vice President Mike Pence in an Abingdon exhibition hall that was half full. "I think it signifies the broad cross-section of support that Dr. Northam has across Virginia," Turner said of the money disparity. "And I think it also highlights Ed Gillespie's lack of momentum and lackluster campaign. He's been unable to rouse the support of his base." On a press call with reporters, Gillespie said Northam may be reaping the benefits of "union money" because he has "abandoned strong support for our right-to-work laws." "We have the resources we need to get our message out and to make sure that voters know the clear choice in this election," said Gillespie, adding that he always expected to be outraised while running against someone who already holds a statewide elected office. In the race for lieutenant governor, Democrat Justin Fairfax, a former federal prosecutor, had a sizable cash advantage over Republican Jill Vogel, a state senator from Fauquier County. Fairfax had $568,304 on hand after raising $608,846 in September. Vogel had $168,493 after raising $286,785 for the month. Attorney General Mark Herring, a Democrat who is seeking re-election, also had a wide cash lead over Republican challenger John Adams, with $2.5 million on hand compared with $250,000 for Adams. Adams is having to rely heavily on money from the Republican Attorney Generals Association, taking $900,000 from the group in September, more than half of his $1.6 million total for the month. The campaign of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ralph Northam printed some fliers that excluded a picture of ticket mate Justin Fairfax to accommodate a union that has endorsed Northam but not Fairfax. The fliers appear similar to others that include all three Democrats on the statewide ballot Nov. 7: Northam; Fairfax, the partys nominee for lieutenant governor; and Attorney General Mark R. Herring. The fliers are handed out by canvassers knocking on doors. In the Fairfax-free flier, created for the Democratic friendly Laborers International Union of North America, all references to Fairfax including his picture are gone. Those fliers have been used in Northern Virginia. The union requested a flier that did not include Fairfax, said Brian Petruska, general counsel with the LIUNA Mid-Atlantic Region Organizing Coalition, because Fairfax did not complete their questionnaire and wasnt supporting us on the issues, he said. Among those issues: Two controversial natural gas pipelines, the EQT Midstream Partners Mountain Valley Pipeline and the Dominion Energy-led Atlantic Coast Pipeline, which are proposed to cross Virginia. Fairfax is among the environmentalist Democratic base in Virginia thats opposed to the pipelines. Northam does not oppose the pipelines. The union also has endorsed Herring, according to Herring spokesman Adam Zuckerman. Northam campaign spokesman David Turner downplayed the flier. Out of over 3 million pieces of literature printed for the campaign, this literature constituted less than roughly 0.5% of the literature printed, and was only for LIUNA to carry on their canvasses, he said in a statement. These doors have also received the regular literature. This means roughly 1.5 million households in Virginia have received the regular literature. You can be rest assured, voters will know who Justin Fairfax is, what he stands for, and why he is the best choice for Lt. Governor in November. Jill Holtzman Vogel, the Republican candidate for lieutenant governor and a state senator from Fauquier County, has attacked Fairfax for not joining his ticket mates in support of the natural gas pipelines, comparing him to Bernie Sanders. Josh Stanfield, a liberal activist with the group Activate Virginia that is working to elect Democratic candidates, was not impressed with the unions request of the Northam campaign for a Fairfax-free flier. Its painfully ironic that, when confronted with the most anti-labor GOP in modern history, any union would jeopardize the Democratic ticket for Dominions pipeline, Stanfield said by email. RICHMOND The Jefferson Davis statue in Richmond was vandalized either late Monday or early Tuesday. The word "racist" was painted in red on the base of the statue, which is at the intersection of N. Davis and Monument avenues. Richmond's Monument Avenue, a National Historic Landmark District, also features statues of Confederate leaders Robert E. Lee, J.E.B Stuart, Stonewall Jackson and Matthew Fontaine Maury. The vandalism comes as places across the nation, including Richmond, decide whether to remove or add context to Confederate monuments in the wake of the violence in Charlottesville earlier this year. The vandalism is the just latest to hit a city monument in recent years. In August, the J.E.B. Stuart statue was splattered with pine tar. Last year, three statues on Monument Avenue were tagged with spray paint after the election of President Donald Trump. The message Your vote was a hate crime was scrawled on monuments to Davis and oceanographer Maury. The statue of Lee was vandalized with an expletive directed at Trump and the letters KKK. Also last year, red paint was splattered on the statue Christopher Columbus in Byrd Park. The statue was defaced with spray paint in 2015. In July 2015, Joseph Weindl, 39, of Richmond, was sentenced to 100 hours of community service for defacing the Davis statue. The incident involving Weindl came shortly after someone had spray-painted Black Lives Matter on the base of the statue. Also in 2015, the Confederate Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Libby Hill Park was defaced with spray paint. In 2014, the Stuart statue was painted with a cryptic anti-work message, accompanied by what appeared to be a Soviet hammer and sickle. In 2012, the Lee statue was defaced with five-O. In July, Mayor Levar Stoney established the Monument Avenue Commission to study ways to add historical context to the monuments. The commission canceled a public hearing in September "in the interests of public safety" after a Charlottesville rally of white supremacists resulted in three deaths. The committee will hold an organizational meeting Nov. 14 to discuss future public engagement. Haute Hawkins: how Stranger Things won fashion With the second series of Stranger Things starting later this month on Netflix, households everywhere are preparing to settle down to the eighties-set supernatural thriller. The fashionable will join them: brands are embracing Stranger Things as cult TV. From the 20 October, Topshop and Topman will collaborate with Netflix to produce a range of clothing themed around the show sort of merchandise for the series. In-jokes are rife. One T-shirt features the Upside Down the alternate dimension featured in the show while a backpack has patches for Hawkins Middle School AV Club, attended by the characters in the show.There will be Stranger Things takeover in the brands stores in London, Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester in the run-up to Halloween. This includes immersive slightly terrifying sets. In the Oxford Circus store, there will be the Hawkins lab, the wooded den created by the main character Will and, of course, the Upside Down. An area will be set up to watch episodes the night before its debuted on Netflix. Were always thinking about how we can create an experience, says Sheena Sauvaire, director of marketing and communications at Topshop. Stranger Things has cultural relevance and its very much a part of the zeitgeist.High fashion is on board too. 13-year-old Millie Bobby Brown, who plays Eleven in the show, starred in the advertising campaign for Calvin Klein this year and sat front row at the brands show in September. Nicolas Ghesquiere, the creative director of Louis Vuitton, is also watching the series. For the catwalk show earlier this month, T-shirts for Stranger Things were included amongst the four-figure luxury outfits.The first series was a hit for Netflix. It was watched by 14.07m adults aged 18-49 in the first 35 days after it was released. While it was hugely popular, the series retained a crucial cool factor. This is perhaps down to the eighties setting, the movie buff references and the character of Barb. While her demise was relatively swift, she lived on in fashion-friendly memes thanks to her oversized glasses and cardigans, both items key to Guccis cult geek chic aesthetic. Barb is of course included in the Topshop range. She features on a T-shirt, with the slogan never forget. Read more at:dusky pink bridesmaid dresses | grey bridesmaid dresses The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday refused to revive a $4.5 million jury award under Title IX for a Texas student who was sexually abused over several years by a school administrator. The justices declined without comment to take up the appeal of Adrian Salazar, whose 2015 jury award was overturned by a federal appeals court earlier this year. Court papers say Salazar was sexually abused in 3rd through 6th grades by Michael Alcoser, who was the vice principal and later principal of the elementary school the student attended in the South San Antonio Independent School District. Alcoser gave Salazar gifts and bought his lunch, which the two shared behind closed doors at Carrillo Elementary school, court papers say. Alcoser molested the student during those sessions, as well as at a summer computer camp. When Salazar entered middle school for 6th grade, Alcoser persuaded the boys parents to drive him to the elementary school so Alcoser, who was by then principal, could tutor the boy. The abuse was discovered by Salazars family when the boy reached 7th grade. The school district fired Alcoser and cooperated with a police investigation. In 2011, Alcoser pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated sexual assault of a child and was found guilty by a jury of two counts of indecency with a child for his abuse of Salazar, and he was sentenced to 18 years in prison, court papers say. Salazar sued the school district under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits sex discrimination in federally funded schools. Salazars suit contended that the district should be held liable under the U.S. Supreme Courts 1998 decision in Gebser v. Lago Vista Independent School District , which held that schools could be liable for sex harassment or abuse under Title IX if an official of the school district who at a minimum has authority to institute corrective measures has actual notice of the misconduct and was deliberately indifferent to it. The jury in Salazars case found that Alcoser was such an official, and it awarded Salazar $4.5 million in damages. The trial judge rejected the school districts request to toss out the verdict, saying that under the circumstances of this case, it is not at all unreasonable to impose Title IX liability upon the school district for the sexual harassment endured by Salazar. In June, however, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, in New Orleans, unanimously threw out the jury verdict . U.S. Circuit Judge Priscilla R. Owen wrote for the panel that language in the Supreme Courts Gebser decision did not support the notion of the wrongdoer being the official who is in a position to take corrective action in an abuse case. It is unreasonable to construe [Title IX] to mean that an employee of a school district who committed sexual abuse in violation of the prohibitions of Title IX would be an appropriate person or persons concerning that sexual abuse, Owen wrote. The abuse that Salazar suffered is heart-wrenching, and Alcosers conduct and breach of trust is despicable, Owen added. But requiring a recipient of Title IX funds to respond in damages when its employee sexually abuses a student and the only employee or representative of the recipient who has actual knowledge of the abuse is the offender does not comport with Title IXs express provisions or implied remedies. In their appeal to the Supreme Court in Salazar v. South San Antonio Independent School District (Case No. 17-386), lawyers for Salazar argued that the 5th Circuits interpretation means that there is effectively no remedy for the abuse of students when the abuse is carried out by the highest school officials on a campus. When the eyes and ears of the school district at a given campus for Title IX enforcement and compliance is also the person violating a students rights, congressional intent is thwarted by interpreting the law in the way the 5th Circuit did here. The school district did not file a response to the appeal, and the Supreme Court did not request one. Bharti Airtel is selling iPhone 7 32GB at a down payment of Rs 7,777 and 24 monthly instalments of Rs 2,499 each through its online store. (File Photo) New Delhi: Bharti Airtel is selling iPhone 7 32GB at a down payment of Rs 7,777 and 24 monthly instalments of Rs 2,499 each through its online store, which went live on Monday. The company will sell other devices as well through its online store and the handsets will come bundled with monthly mobile service plans. "Airtel's online store went live today with Apple's iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus variants and the company plans to add devices from all leading brands to the store's offerings in the near future... The iPhone 7 (32 GB) is available at a down payment of just Rs 7,777 and 24 monthly instalments of Rs 2,499," Airtel said in a statement. The monthly instalments have a built-in high-end postpaid plan which offers 30 GB data, unlimited calling (local, STD, national roaming), and Airtel secure package that covers the device against any physical damage and offers cyber protection, it said. The online store of Airtel will have tough competition from e-commerce firms which are selling similar products at a very lower price. The online store is part of company's Project Next in which it has plans to invest up to Rs 2,000 crore to enhance reach and interaction with consumers. "Not only are we making it easier for millions of customers to upgrade to devices they always wanted, we are also making the entire process seamless and simple through digital technologies," Bharti Airtel Global CIO and Director Engineering Harmeen Mehta said. Airtel has partnered with Apple Inc, HDFC Bank, Clix Capital, Seynse Technologies, Brightstar Telecommunications and Vulcan Express for schemes available at the online store. Debt-reeling national airline Air India will not be sold as a single unit, according to sources familiar with the development. (File Photo) Mumbai: Debt-reeling national airline Air India will not be sold as a single unit, according to sources familiar with the development. Earlier in the year, the Union Cabinet gave in-principle nod to the disinvestment of the national carrier that has a debt of over Rs 50,000 crore. A group of minister are working out the modalities of the process. According to a report in Moneycontrol, each business of AI will be put out for sale as an independent unit, free from the overall debt. Ever since the announcement of its disinvestment, key players like IndiGo, Tata Sons, Bird Group have expressed their interest in buying the public carrier. The date for finalising the divestment process has not been fixed, said the sources. Earlier it was also reported that Air India would be sold to domestic buyers with individual, profit generating, business arms only. The government has already invited bids for appointment of legal and financial advisors to expedite the process. The group of ministers looking at the modalities are looking into various aspects like the treatment of unsustainable debts of the national carrier, hiving off certain assets to a shell company and de-merger and strategic disinvestment of three profit-making subsidiaries, among others. AIs five subsidiaries include Air India Express Limited (AIEL), Air India Air Transport Service Limited (AIATSL), Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL), Airline Allied Service Ltd (AASL) and Hotel Corporation of India (HCI). It also has a joint-venture with Singapore Air Transport Services (SATS) called AISATS. Bank scrip shed 0.65 per cent to close at Rs 189.90 on the BSE, as against a 0.62 per cent rise on the benchmark. (Representational Image) Mumbai: Small sized private sector lender DCB Bank on Monday reported 21 per cent rise in its September quarter net at Rs 59 crore on core income growth, but reported a spurt in retail bad loans. The city-based bank's core net interest income rose 30 per cent to Rs 248 crore on the back of a 20 per cent credit growth, but the non-interest income was flat at Rs 65 crore. Chief executive and managing director Murali Natrajan attributed the muted growth in non-interest income to a high base, where the bank had earned a healthy income on treasury operations last year. Its gross non-performing assets ratio moved up to 1.80 per cent from the 1.75 per cent last year and as a result fresh slippages came in at Rs 77.5 crore and were driven by the retail loans, including mortgages and commercial vehicles, Natrajan said. He said the overall environment has resulted in difficulties being faced by various segments, which is resulting in the difficulties on the asset quality front. But he said there has been no contribution from the corporate segment to the slippages. Its net interest margin rose sharply to 4.22 per cent from the year-ago period's 3.96 per cent. The overall capital adequacy ratio was at 14.65 per cent with the core tier-I at 12.90 per cent. Natrajan said the current level of capital will help the bank for 18 months. The bank scrip shed 0.65 per cent to close at Rs 189.90 on the BSE, as against a 0.62 per cent rise on the benchmark. India's e-commece sector is expected to rise to become a $40 billion market in next few decades. (Representational image/Photo: PTI) Mumbai: India's e-commerce industry got over $2 billion worth of investments in past three months to September this year, according to a report in The Financial Express. At present, the value of India's ecommerce market stands somewhere around $20-22 billion. Of late, private equity and venture capital companies are pumping in more funds into the segment. The investments in e-commerce segment saw an increase of 17 per cent during July-September period, data collated by Jefferies reveal. "Indeed, 2017 has seen a resurgence in inflows into e-retailing as investors believe consolidation and a focus on costs will make ventures more viable," the FE report reads. The industry has heaved a sigh of relief with these fresh investments with as much as 7 billion, which is over twice the funds that had come in in 2016, foreign funds have until now flown into the segment. The Us based e-commerce giant Amazon keeps injecting funds into its India arm. So far, Amazon India has got more than $5 billion investments from its US based parent. Other prominent foreign player in the segment is SoftBank which funds Flipkar, Ola and digital wallet Paytm. The Japanese investor has so far committed over $4 billion to businesses in India in 2017 alone. The Masayoshi Son-led conglomerate has invested close to $6 billion in the last three years, the FE report adds. Mumbai: Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, IRCTC, has received a windfall from the Finance Ministry that will help the entity overcome a portion of financial trouble it suddenly finds itself in after the government last year scrapped service charge on tickets booked on company's website. Railway's catering and tourism arm has seen its revenue come down substantially over past one year after the government ended service charge on online ticket bookings. The decision to withdraw service charge on online tickets was taken in the aftermath of demonetisation of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes. As per an estimate, IRCTC is bearing an annual loss of Rs 600 crore per year due to last year's decision. The Rs 80 crore that the Finance Ministry is doling out as a reimbursement is only the actual cost of online ticketing operations and not the margins made by the firm, a report in The Financial Express said citing its sources. The reimbursement is seen as a green signal from the Ministry for a possible issuance of an Initial Public Offering or IPO which, according to earlier reports, IRCTC was planning to come up with. In the earlier model, of the Rs 600 crore IRCTC used to collect as service charges annually, 50% used to go to the railways and the balance was retained by IRCTC. However, since processes are now mostly computerised, cost of operations has reduced, FE quoted an unidentified railway ministry official as saying. However, it is not immediately clear if the ministry will bear the cost of online ticketing services for every year, the report adds. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will soon take a call on methodology for allocation of coal blocks for commercial mining. (Photo: PTI) New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will soon take a call on methodology for allocation of coal blocks for commercial mining, a top official has said. The comments come amid some of the power producers facing low coal stocks at their plants. "The CCEA note (on methodology of commercial coal mining) is ready. I think in the next one week or 10 days it should come in the Cabinet," Coal Secretary Susheel Kumar told PTI. A discussion paper on the modalities for allocation of coal mines through auction route was earlier placed in the public domain for seeking comments of stakeholders. "We have already received comments of stakeholders," Kumar asserted. The government, he said, plans to put under the hammer around 5-6 coal blocks for commercial mining by private players. "Five to six mines will be auctioned under commercial mining," the Secretary said. Coal Minister Piyush Goyal had said earlier this year that enabling provisions have been made in the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 for allocation of coal mines by way of auction and allotment for the sale of coal. Commercial mines are alloted without specifying the end use and allow private entities to sell the fuel to buyers across sectors such as power, cement and steel. India is in the process of throwing open commercial coal mining to private firms for the first time in four decades, with the aim of shifting the world's third-biggest coal importer towards energy self-sufficiency. The government had earlier said that opening up of commercial coal mining to private companies will bring in competition in the coal sector and will reduce power tariff. The government had said it wants to convey to potential investors that sustainable and efficient mining, not revenue maximisation, is the idea behind commercial coal auction. It might take as long as December to get Rs 200 notes in ATMs. Photo:Twitter| @ANI Mumbai: Although the newly-rolled out Rs 200 notes are available at select bank branches, it might take as long as December to get these in ATMs, state media reports. The Reserve Bank of India in August issued Rs 200 notes in a bid to address the low-denomination crunch in the system. The notes have been available at certain bank branches so far. According to media reports, ATM makers say they have not yet received instructions from banks to recalibrate the cassettes to fit in the new Rs 200 notes. Banks seem to believe that with the effects of note ban dwindling away, there is no sense of urgency currently. Canara Bank chairman Rakesh Sharma said that although recalibration is seen as an easy exercise in public imagination, it is not. ATM operators have blamed banks for their lack of interest getting the machines updated. To dispense the Rs 200 notes, the ATM machines require recalibration them, which entails re-configuring the cassette. The RBI had however said that more Rs 200 notes will be available in the system shortly. "The production of these (Rs 200) notes is being ramped up by the currency printing presses and over time, as more notes are printed, it will be distributed across the country through the banking channels and will be available for public in adequate quantity," the central bank had said in a statement. The RBI on Tuesday asked banks to "immediately" pay interest due on the gold deposited by individuals and institution under the Gold Monetization Scheme (GMS) launched in 2015. Mumbai: The Reserve Bank on Tuesday asked banks to "immediately" pay interest due on the gold deposited by individuals and institution under the Gold Monetization Scheme (GMS) launched in 2015. The government had launched the scheme to curb imports of gold, which has a bearing on current account deficit. Gold can be deposited under the GMS with a designated bank in the account of the Central government for a medium-term period of 5-7 years or a long-term period of 12-15 years. In a notification, the RBI said reimbursement of payments made by banks, relating to Medium and Long-Term Government Deposit (MLTGD), will be made by its Central Account Section (CAS), Nagpur. "Accordingly, banks are advised to pay immediately the interest amount already due to the depositors and to take note that, in future, payment of interest to the depositors is to be made on the due dates," said the notification. After making payments, the banks may raise the claim to the government through RBI, the notification added. The rate of interest on gold deposit is decided by government and notified by Reserve Bank of India from time to time. The annual rate of interest on medium-term deposit is 2.25 percent and on long-term deposit, it is 2.50 percent. For new teachers in about a quarter of large schools districts across the United States, renting a one-bedroom apartment is simply unaffordable, finds a recent analysis. The National Council on Teacher Quality looked at teacher salary data for 124 large districts, and compared those to the median costs for apartment rental and homeownership in those areas. The group pulled rental costs from the real estate website Zillow and home prices from the Census Bureaus American Community Survey. New York City, San Francisco, and Washington are (not surprisingly) the least affordable places for new teachers, the analysis shows. In New York, for instance, teachers make an average of $51,650 with a bachelors degree at the beginning of their careers. But renting a one-bedroom there costs $2,351 on average per month. That means teachers would need to spend more than 30 percent of their income on rent (an oft-cited threshold for affordability). (The below chart from NCTQ asks: Is the median one-bedroom rent 30 percent or less of a teachers salary? For the full interactive chart, head here .) Teachers in other large citiesBoston, Chicago, Denver, Miami, Nashville, and Seattlewould struggle to pay rent for a one-bedroom as well. Buying a home is even tougher for teachers, the analysis indicates, in particular in the West and the Northeast. The data show: To save enough for a 20 percent down payment on a median-priced home, teachers need to work for 10 years on average. Thats not so different from other professions. (The median age for a first-time buyer is 32 years old.) In five districts, teachers would need to save for more than 20 years to reach a 20 percent down payment. Those districts are in San Juan Capistrano, Calif.; Fairfax County, Va.; Hawaii (the state has a single district); Oakland, Calif.; and San Francisco. Teachers in Detroit and San Antonio only need about three years to save for a down payment. In fact, teachers in several other Texas districtsArlington, Brownsville, Dallas, Ft. Worth, and Pasadenacan save for a down payment in fewer than five years. Monthly mortgage payments are a barrier in the majority of districts. In only a small fraction of the districts (20 percent) can a teacher with five years of experience comfortably afford the monthly costs associated with buying a median-priced home, the report states, and that assumes the teacher has acquired a masters degree and the boost in salary that generally comes with it, Most of the analysis assumes teachers live alone, and that they can save 10 percent of their salary per year toward a down payment. And while the analysis uses Zillow to estimate rental costs, the website itself admits those estimates are just a starting point (and as the report points out, they differ widely from those cited by the Census). Previous reports have shown real estate to be out of many teachers reach also, and pointed theyve also to Californias Bay Area and Hawaii as being particularly difficult places. As weve written, some cities have been experimenting with ways to make housing more affordable for teachers , including by giving them discounts on homes and creating teachers villages . See also: &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href='#'&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;img alt='Can teachers afford housing? ' src='https:&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;public.tableau.com&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;static&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;images&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;CP&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;CPGXG7Z7W&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;1_rss.png style='border: none /&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href='#'&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;img alt='Can teachers afford housing? ' src='https:&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;public.tableau.com&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;static&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;images&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;CP&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;CPGXG7Z7W&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#47;1_rss.png style='border: none /&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; For more news and information on the teaching profession: And sign up here to get alerts in your email inbox when stories are published on Teacher Beat. New Delhi: India has attracted investment commitments of around USD 10 billion in the food processing sector ahead of the mega 'World Food' event to be held here in November, Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal said on Monday. More investment is likely to be committed by the end of the event, said the Minister of Food Processing. The World Food India event will see participation of 30 countries and over 50 global CEOs, along with CEOs of leading domestic food processing firms and 27 states, she added. "We had kept a target of USD 10 billion investment. I am happy to share, we have already achieved the target. More investment is likely to flow as we still have 2-3 weeks for the event," Badal said at the curtain raiser of the 3-day event from November 3. She declined to share the name of the companies which have committed to make the investment. "We will give names in the World Food India. I have to take permission from companies which are investing on whether to announce it now or not. They will be announcing during the event," she added. Metro Cash and Carry India Managing Director and Mediratta said the company plans to double the number of stores from 24, by 2020. ITC Ltd Executive Director Nakul Anand, Nestle India Senior Vice President Sanjay Khajuria, Walmart Senior Vice President Rajneesh Kumar, Kellogg India (rpt) Kellogg India Managing Director Mohit Anand talked about the opportunities that India offers but did not state any investment plans. Foreign investors are excited to work in India, Badal said, adding that "this is because ease of doing business in India is seeming like a reality to people who had to face multiple taxes, multiple rules and regulations across states". Introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST) -- a single nation and single tax -- has actually made India the world market where everyone wants to come and invest, she said. Asserting that India has a market to offer which nobody can afford to miss, the minister said: "We have today a USD 600 billion retail sector, of which 70 per cent is food retail and it will treble by 2020. Expenditure on food will also double next six years. There is huge market." A lot of policy decisions have been taken in the last three years to boost the food processing sector so that food wastage is curbed and farmers' incomes improve, she added. The government is also actively considering a proposal to allow foreign direct investment (FDI) in non-food items, along with food products, under the multi-brand retail policy, she said expressing hope of getting it cleared. Japan, Denmark and Germany are participating as 'partner countries' in the event, while Italy and The Netherlands are the focus nations. Speaking about Japan's participation, its ambassador to India Kenji Hiramatsu said Japanese firms are already present here in areas like instant noodle among others. More companies are looking at the Indian market for investment purpose and over 60 firms will be participating in the forthcoming event, he said. "I hope that the companies coming will have more investment opportunities as you know India and Japan has been enjoying very good bilateral relations," he added. Ambassador of Netherlands to India Alphonsus Stoelinga said the country wants to support India in helping farmers achieve high efficiency in agriculture. Ambassadors of Denmark and Italy as well as celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor were present at the event, also attended by MoS, food processing, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti. Washington: Steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal has donated USD 25 million to the prestigious Harvard University with an aim to increase engagement with South Asian countries, including India. The donation will establish an endowed fund for the South Asia Institute at the university. The institute spearheads Harvard's engagement with South Asian countries, including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka as well as diaspora populations from these countries, the university said in a statement. As a result of the endowment from the Mittal Foundation, Harvard's South Asia Institute would be called as Lakshmi Mittal South Asia Institute at Harvard University, it said. Founded in 2003, the South Asia Initiative became a University-wide interdisciplinary institute in 2010 under the leadership of its current faculty director, Indian-American Tarun Khanna, the Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at Harvard Business School. "We are so grateful for the Mittal family's support and what it will enable us to learn and share across the sciences, social sciences, and the humanities and the many people and institutions it will allow us to engage," said Khanna. "International centers like the South Asia Institute at Harvard University serve as a vital conduit between the University and the world we study," said Harvard President Drew Faust. "The generous support from the Mittal family is a testament to both the important work being done by this community of scholars and students and the continuing impact it will have in the region," Faust added. South Asia has played a dynamic and influential role in the development of our world since the very first civilisations, said 67-year-old Mittal, chairman and CEO of ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel company. "Ensuring that we fully understand its history and unique dynamics is a critical enabler in helping to shape a successful future," he added. As someone who was born in India, the long-term prosperity of India and its neighbouring countries "matters a great deal to me and my family," Mittal told Harvard Gazette in an interview. "Harvard is one of the world's greatest learning institutions, with a unique ability to facilitate dialogue and drive thinking and progress," he said. The Mittal family has long supported educational endeavours and public policy development in India as a means of positioning the country and the region for future success, the university said. Hema Malini and Sunny Deol have hardly ever been spotted at same platform. Mumbai: Veteran actor Hema Malini said on Monday that she shared a "beautiful" relationship with Sunny Deol, Dharmendra's son from his first wife. The 69-year-old actor says there has always been curiosity regarding her equation with Sunny, which has been extremely wonderful and cordial. "Everyone wonders what kind of a relationship we (Sunny and I) are having. It is very beautiful and cordial. Whenever it is necessary, he (Sunny) is always there, along with Dharamji, especially when this accident happened," Malini said. The actor-parliamentarian met with a road accident near Dausa in Rajasthan in 2015 on her way from Agra to Jaipur, when her Mercedes allegedly rammed into an Alto. Malini reportedly fractured her nose and suffered injuries on her forehead. "He (Sunny) was the first person to come and see me at home and he saw that the right doctor is there for the stitches that were done on my face. I was really taken aback to see him showing so much interest. That shows what kind of a relationship we are having," Malini added. She was talking at the launch of her biography, 'Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl', written by Ram Kamal Mukherjee. The biography was launched by actor Deepika Padukone in the presence of Malini's family, including daughters Esha and Ahana Deol with their respective husbands, and industry colleagues Ramesh Sippy, Juhi Chawla and Subhash Ghai. With the rains showing no signs of letting up, there has been an outbreak of vector-borne and water-borne diseases across the city. There have been 4,990 cases of dengue and 116 cases of chikungunya since January in Bengaluru alone. Experts blame it on the lack of awareness among people and the general apathy of the BBMP when it comes to keeping the city clean. The problem needs to be dealt with on a war footing. Joyeeta Chakravorty and Chandrashekar G report. First the deluge and then the disease. Having received a record rainfall, the highest in 115 years this monsoon, which has left its roads and homes flooded and even washed away a few people , Bengaluru is now witnessing the inevitable outbreak of disease. With rain water refusing to run off in some localities with their blocked drains and large potholes, there is a bigger than usual influx of mosquitoes and a spike in vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya. People are also coming down with gastroenteritis, typhoid and jaundice, leaving doctors and hospitals working overtime to deal with the rush of patients coming to them. In my 25 years of practice, I havent seen so many viral fever cases. It is difficult to tell whether they are climate related or not, but if you look around you can see there is water stagnation everywhere and mosquito control is extremely poor. It is a vicious cycle as neither the public nor the BBMP seems to care. There is a lack of awareness among the people and apathy in the BBMP, regrets Dr Manjunath K.N., consultant, internal medicine and geriatrics, Vikram Hospital. Then there is chikungunyaa and viral arthritis. And of the five to six dengue patients coming to us every day, some 60 per cent require hospitalisation, he reveals. There is a typhoid outbreak and it is primarily water-borne. There have also been a few cases of jaundice due to Hepatitis A, which too is water-borne, says Dr Rakshay Shetty, head, paediatric intensive care services, Rainbow Hospital. We see at least four to five dengue admissions a day as well. A majority are from nearby districts and states," the doctor discloses, strongly recommending that people ensure hand hygiene and drink clean water to keep safe. Often food like chutney, which may be prepared with unclean water, transmit these diseases. It can spread from hand to hand and so hand hygiene is very important, he stresses. The sudden erratic rainfall has led to a spurt in both water-borne and vector-borne diseases, besides allergies, agrees Dr John Ebenezer, Medical Superintendent, CV Raman Nagar General hospital, which is seeing a spike in the gastroenteritis and food poisoning cases coming to it, besides some 10 to 15 dengue cases and around 10 cases of chikungunya every day. And if you are someone who enjoys getting the wet in the rain, dont. Doctors strongly advise against it, warning that the rain water could be contaminated with bacteria and viruses filling the air. Says Dr Raghu, senior consultant, Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital. The monsoon makes the air humid and the cools the city. But you also find bacteria and viruses becoming more widespread this season, leading to increase in cases of conjunctivitis, sty, dry eyes and other ocular diseases. So getting wet in the rain is a strict no. There is definite cause for concern as going by the state health departments records the city has seen 4990 positive cases of dengue and 116 of chikungunya since January. Worryingly, as many as 921 positive cases of swine flu or H1N1 too have been reported in BBMP limits in this period, making the need for precautions this monsoon all the more important to keep these diseases at bay. Bengaluru flooded? Blame it on lake encroachments Bengaluru should not in the normal course be seeing any flooding in rain as it is located at an elevation, much above the sea level, points out urban expert R. K. Misra, blaming the encroachments of its lakes and rajakaluves, for much of its troubles. Between 1980 and 2016 most of the lakes were taken over and trees were felled indiscriminately, turning the city into a concrete jungle. As a result in 2017, nature reclaimed the lakes and the houses are floating on them. We thought we were smarter and could fool nature, but didnt realise it could strike back with a vengeance, he says. This is a warning by nature. At least now the government and the babus need to wake up. Any delay or ignoring of this warning could cost us dear in future. The greed, corruption and shortsightedness of the government and urban planners have put Bengaluru in this sad situation, Mr. Misra deplores, strongly suggests that the citys remaining tank beds, lakes and valleys should be made a strictly no development zone. They should be secured and maintained. The laws should be so stern that no official should be able to bow to pressure and allow development in these parts. This is the only way to prevent the flooding in rain, he emphasises. In his view no construction should be allowed in low lying areas like Koramangala, BTM layout, Kurubarahalli, Nandini layout, Mahalakshmi layout, and Sudhamanagar, which are prone to flooding. Recalling that once the citys lakes were interconnected with rajakaluves,he regrets that rampant encroachment has destroyed this system, leaving the city vulnerable to flooding. While the government promised to spend Rs 800 crore on remodelling the Storm Water Drain network, it took about 15 months just to finalise the tender. And even when the work is taken up , it is often during the rainy season, which makes the situation worse, he adds with regret. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau walks past the honour guard during a welcoming ceremony at the Palacio Nacional in Mexico City. (Photo: AP) It seems Indians have turned Puritans when it comes to the usage of words. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently took to Twitter to wish people who are celebrating a Happy Diwali. Trudeau posted a photo of him, wearing a beautifully embroidered black kurta, lighting a ceremonial lamp during celebrations in the city of Ottawa, as Indian High Commissioner Vikas Swarup and members of the diaspora looked on. While the photo captured a beautiful moment of solidarity and fellow feeling, his choice of greeting did not go down too well with certain people, who took no time to rant on the microblogging site Twitter. It's not "Diwali Mubarak", it's "Diwali Ki Badhai" ... Correct it .. Bhavesh K Pandey (@bhaveshkpandey) October 17, 2017 Trudeau was instantly criticised for using the word Mubarak in his tweet with those opposed saying that the word has its origins in Arabic. He was asked to correct his mistake: Word to the wise : It's "Shubh-Deepavali", (Auspicious Deepavali), and NOT "Diwali Mubarak". "Mubarak" is Arabic, not Indian. @CanadainIndia Truthsayer (@a_truthsayer) October 17, 2017 Thank you, Mr.PM. Its good to hear from a global icon. But it's either 'subh deewali' (Hindhi) or deepavali Vazhthukal(Tamil). Abinayah Raguraam (@AbinayahR) October 17, 2017 But there were those who came out in support for the Canadian PM: You are awesome. Not sure why ppl getting offended by "Mubarak" Respect the sentiments behind, Mubarak just an Arabic word for blessing Shaan (@Shanyousaf6) October 17, 2017 But almost everyone appreciated Trudeau's gesture: Thanks PM Trudeau and Diwali Mubarak to you too!!! Shiraz Khan (@itzShiraz) October 17, 2017 Aww... It feels so good when ppl other than your countrymen understand the importance of Diwali.. Diwali Mubarak.. Vaishnavi Gaur (@vaishnavigaur1) October 17, 2017 This is not the first time that Trudeau is wishing Indians across the world on their festival. The Canadian PM has been known to routinely take to social media to celebrate different cultures and faiths. Earlier this year, he wished everyone on Eid Al-Fitur and also offered Vaisakhi greetings and Pongal greetings as well. And if social media images are something to go by, the dashing PM may have a panache for kurtas. The coffee contains no caffeine so it's good for those who would like to drink coffee at night or pregnant women. says Shimotai, who used to be a coffee shop owner in Aomori Prefect. (Photo: AFP) Love your daily cup of coffee? Well then this news is all geared up to tingle your taste buds. A Japanese man, who was inspired to create garlic coffee following a cooking blunder some 30 years ago is ready to commercialize it. The drink apparently tastes and looks like regular coffee but is made from locally grown garlic, according to its inventor who hails from northeast Japan. According to an article published in Asia One, Yokitomo Shimotai, told Kyodo News that the drink was probably the first of its kind in the world. He went on to add that it contains no caffeine so it's good for those who would like to drink coffee at night or pregnant women. Shimotai, who used to be a coffee shop owner in Aomori Prefecture, launched the drink early this year in January. The cooking mistake happened when he burnt a piece of steak with some garlic while cooking and serving customers at the same time, Kyodo News reported. He proceeded to mash the burnt garlic with a spoon and mixed it with hot water. When he downed the mixture, he was surprised at its bitter "coffee-like taste", the report continued. Post retirement, Shimotai invested his full time to the drink and after five years of trial and error, he finally settled on a brew he was satisfied with. He later acquired a patent on this method in 2015 and started a workshop in Iwate Prefecture. The packet containing a cup of garlic drip coffee will set you back at least 324 yen (S$3.90) and is currently on sale at only two souvenir shops in Aomori Prefecture or via phone orders. It is pretty interesting what people do to make a point? Sometimes, it does take a little fantasy play to really show the world what you mean. Bengalurus road and traffic situation have become fodder for online trolls given its abysmal condition. This is common knowledge for citizens, but often times, we stand with hands behind our back, not knowing what to do. Prominent city artist Baadal Nanjundaswamys recent take on potholes has become a viral hit this time. In collaboration with actress Sonu Gowda, they created an illusion of a mermaid emerging out of huge pothole near Cubbon Park area, showing us that there really is so much more that one can do. We speak to the performance artists at length about creating the necessary impact. Baadal Nanjundaswamy, a city-based artist says, Highlighting the pothole issue was my only intention. Everyday people get hurt due to the plight of the roads but it does not become news unless someone loses their life. I wasnt expecting such a reaction from this event, as long as the necessary effort is made to fix it. Everyone is aware of the situation in Bengaluru and this performance art caught everyones attention. Only the impact it creates is important. Sonu and Baadal were friends and Sonu was deeply vested in making a difference as well. So when Baadal suggested the idea to her, she was onboard. She adds, This was crucial because people are hurt and affected by this. This was a unique way of creating awareness and voicing a protest. The government had to be alerted. When we were working, we didnt expect it to go viral to this extent. Our only intention was to bring the authoritys attention to the situation at hand, and subsequent action was taken to cover the pothole, which is great! We have also had requests from people to come and do our work again at other spots in the city that prove to be dangerous. As citizens, Baadal and Sonu have shown us an innovative way to register a protest which is what makes the difference as Anil Shetty, an author and politician says, I think its very important that we highlight the issue. Baadal is a friend and has always used his art to make his point. Its also important to understand that many a times, humour is important to send across a message. The old way of shouting slogans is not very appealing. The new idea was of registering a protest in a creative manner. As an artist, he made it the best way possible to raise awareness as that is what is important right now, since the pothole issue is common knowledge. This is the time for us to stand up and offer our services to the cause like he has shown with his art. Yechury led a march to the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, countering the latter's two-week long Janraksha Yatra New Delhi: CPI (M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, on Tuesday accused the RSS-BJP of triggering violence in Kerala. He further stated that if it continued to do so, the saffron party would not win even a single seat in the state. Yechury made the statement after leading a march to the BJP headquarters here, countering the latter's two-week long Janraksha Yatra, or people's protection rally, in Kerala, which concludes on Tuesday. "We warn the BJP that if they continue to create violence in Kerala, they will not have even one elected MLA from the state," Yechury said, addressing his party workers in front of the BJP office. The Left party's march was in protest against the alleged acts of violence by the RSS-BJP in Kerala, while the BJP's rallies highlighted what it described as violence by the Left. Yechury was joined by other party leaders and workers at the rally. "The BJP-RSS is trying to build up their political and social base through violence and terror," Yechury claimed. The CPI(M) leader took a dig at BJP president Amit Shah, and said that he "ran away from Kerala and came back to Delhi, as he had to save his son who is been accused of corruption". Yechury was referring to a recent report in a news portal which alleged that a firm owned by Shah's son Jay, saw a huge rise in its turnover after the BJP came to power in 2014. The BJP rejected the accusations as "false, derogatory and defamatory". Challenging the ruling party at the Centre, Yechury further stated that the "red flag" -- a reference to the Left's symbol cannot be removed from India. "If the BJP thinks it can remove the red flag from the country, then they are mistaken, as the flag has removed fascist forces from the world," he said. Earlier the Left party leader had said its workers were capable of giving a "suitable answer" if saffron outfits did not stop political violence. Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, joined the Jana Raksha Yatra in Kannur over the killing of BJP and RSS workers in the state. (Photo: Yogi Adityanath | Twitter) Kannur: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, joined the Jana Raksha Yatra in Kannur over the killing of BJP and RSS workers in the state. Talking to his supporters, Yogi said, "This yatra is a mirror for communist governments in Kerala, West Bengal and Tripura. They should put an end to political killings". "There is no place for violence in a democracy, but political killings are continuing here," he said. Also read: CM directly responsible for all political murders in Kerala: Amit Shah On Tuesday, BJP chief Amit Shah set off on a 15-day foot march to protest the CPI-M's alleged violence against workers of his party, which is trying to emerge as the main challenger to the Left in Kerala. On the first day of his three-day stay in Kannur, Shah launched 'Jan Raksha Yatra' (people's protection march) from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's home town in Kannur district. Addressing a rally in the CPI(M) bastion, also the home town of Kerala Chief Minister, Shah said Vijayan was responsible for the violence in the state. The BJP chief met the family members of RSS-BJP workers killed in the political violence in the state and also inaugurated an exhibition organised in their memory. Seeking to corner the ruling alliance and boost the BJP's standing among the masses, the party has asked its senior leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanth and several Union ministers, to join the exercise. With the Congress, the main opposition party in the state, and the Left, maintaining a coordination against the BJP in politics at the national level, the saffron party believes that it can occupy the opposition space in Kerala and build on its gains to become a major force by the next Lok Sabha polls. (With inputs from PTI) Adityanath will be in Agra on October 25 and will visit Taj Mahal and other monuments in the city. (Photo: File) Lucknow: In an attempt to control the damage caused to the BJP by MLA Sangeet Soms hate speech, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said the Taj Mahal was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers. Som had on Sunday described the iconic monument as "a blot on Indian culture". Read: Taj Mahal built by traitors, can't be part of Indian history, says BJP MLA "It does not matter who built the Taj Mahal and for what reason. It was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers," said Adityanath, who will visit Agra on October 25 and take a tour to Taj Mahal and other monuments in the city. #WATCH UP CM Adityanath reacts on Taj Mahal issue, says "It doesn't matter who built it, it was built by blood & sweat of Indian labourers". pic.twitter.com/Kxqtvz7mum ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 17, 2017 Adding that the Taj Mahal is important, Adityanath focused on the tourism perspective of the monument and said "it is our priority to provide facilities and safety to tourists there." Courting a controversy, Som had termed Mughal emperors, Babur, Akbar and Aurangzeb, as "traitors" and said that their names would be removed from the pages of history. He was addressing a gathering at Sisoli village after inaugurating a statue of 8th century king Anangpal Singh Tomar. "Many people were pained to see that the Taj Mahal was removed from the list of places (tourist destinations). What type of history? Is this history that the person who built the Taj Mahal imprisoned his father? Do you call it a history when the one who built the Taj targeted many Hindus in Uttar Pradesh and Hindustan?" he had said. Read: Yogi Adityanath govt removes Taj Mahal from UP's tourism booklet Som's comments came days after a section of media reported that a booklet brought out by the tourism department of the Uttar Pradesh government left out the Taj Mahal from its list of major tourist destinations. So, a confession: To Kill a Mockingbird is not my favorite book to teach. Dont get me wrongI have a lot of affection for the book. I read it as a 9th-grader (though, even then, its magic didnt make sense). Ive taught it for four years now, largely using Facing Historys brilliant Teaching Mockingbird Curriculum . I have a powerful experience whenever I teach the book. Still, Im just making clear that Im not a die-hard TKAM fan. I think the first few chapters can feel really slow for kids (I know, Lee is world-building, but its hard to see that at 14 and it feels long). I think Atticus Finch, as brilliant a character as he is, falls into some dangerous white savior tropes (something that both the Facing History curriculum and this fantastic lesson from Teaching Tolerance that Im literally using this week help try and combat) that need to be discussed and dissected. Yet, here I am with a full-throated defense of continuing to teach the novel in classrooms if it is the text a teacher wants to use. Recently, a Mississippi school district pulled To Kill a Mockingbird from its 8th-grade reading list because the use of the N-word made students feel uncomfortable, and so the district planned to find another book. Interestingly, with all the outcry its easy to forget that To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the most frequently challenged books in educational settings. Ive seen folks complain about everything from the N-word to the idea that the injustices make kids feel sad. Its easy to forget that the story of Tom Robinson and the injustice he faces often hits people right in the gut, makes them feel... not-good in some capacity, and the general reaction many have to that feeling is to try and squash the source. I understand the discomfort; as someone who reads the book aloud to students, I feel uncomfortable every time I say the N-word while reading. And I should feel uncomfortable. The word is heinous and designed to cause discomfort. The thing is, if I dont name that struggle with my students, they lose the opportunity to learn about the gravity of that word, where it comes from, and why it shouldnt be used. Heres the thing: education isnt here to make you feel comfortable. A good education should, inherently, cause us discomfort. Part of the enlightening experience built into the definition of the word education itself is shining light into the darkness of our own ignorance. When has that ever felt good? Dont get me wrong, I think creating a safe space for students is paramount (which Ive written about here and here ). Theres a big difference between a safe space and a bubble, though. A safe space creates a world in which students feel comfortable being themselves and having difficult conversations in a way that will validate and challenge each other in healthy ways. A bubble hides kids from the worlds real problems and allows them to believe that what they assume about the world is correct. The worldview of most adolescents, however, is very often not correct. The worldview of many adults is not correct. Heck, the world is not currently correct. Oppressive systems still ensure the disenfranchisement and unequal treatment of people not just based on race, as portrayed in To Kill a Mockingbird, but for other reasons, such as gender and sexuality (to name a few). We are still in a society that is incredibly divided and focused on power in a way that causes us to be far from kind to each other. Books like To Kill a Mockingbird make us uncomfortable because it shows things that not only upset us, but it shows us things about ourselves that may upset us. The novel shows us the danger and nuance of believing in nice people. Walter Cunningham, who we have believed to be a kind friend of the Finch family, is the same man who plans to lynch Tom (and the same man who is convinced to call it off). The Maycomb ladies are educated and full of decorous habits, yet build their self-worth on colonialistic missions and continual judgements. Lees novel makes us question the difference between nice and right, and in doing so holds up a mirror to own actions in a way that, yes, can make us feel uncomfortable. And thats the point. Change isnt comfortable. Change will only happen when we face the discomfort head on and actually discuss it with our students and, perhaps more importantly, with each other. Failing to do so makes us complacent in the racism that started long before To Kill a Mockingbird and has continued long after. The Sun Herald put it well in their editorial critique of the districts decision : Acting as if race is no longer a factor in our society is part of the problem. Acting as if it is too difficult or offensive to talk about is part of the problem. We have not, in fact, overcome racism. The racists in our society must be confronted. They must not be allowed to assume our silence is acquiescence. In the book, the Finch children, Scout and Jem, grow when they confront evil. They discover prejudice and overcome it. And that is because their father, Atticus, treats them maturely and guides them in the right direction. The Biloxi school system should follow his example." When I consider what I would like my legacy as an educator to be, its a big question. Yes, Id like to be remembered as kind and loving (even when upset with my kiddos). More importantly, though, Id like to be remembered as a teacher who made students think. Id like to hope that, when the time comes, I more-often-than-not choose to be courageous enough to challenge my students (and myself) to be, do, and act better. I think most teachers want to enhance their students critical thinking skills. And that doesnt happen by focusing on comfort. It happens by focusing on the challenge, on shining a light onto those exact places of discomfort and fear so we can name them and talk about them. As runner and creator of Black Girls Run Ashley Hicks once said , the blessing is outside of your comfort zone. This is where we need to meet students to challenge and change them. We dont meet them there out of frustration or condescension, but out of a deep love and care for their growth. We meet them there because we know that the only real change in life will make them uncomfortable and because instead of sending them in alone, we want to make sure weve provided them with the tools and skills to face that challenge head-on. So, lets love our kids. Lets love them enough to teach them how to handle discomfort. Lets love them enough to teach them the oft-quoted (and perhaps hackneyed) idea that, as Atticus Finch teaches Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird, they never really understand a person until [they] consider things from his point of view [...] until [they] climb into his skin and walk around in it. The novel gives us the chance to show them this skill, and walk alongside them as well. Perhaps, that is ultimately one of the most important parts of our work: challenge our students and walk alongside them in that discomfort as we grow with them. Photo by author. Find Christina online: BJP Chief Amit Shah asked Kerala Chief Minister Vijayan whether people had given him the mandate for elimination of BJP/RSS workers in the state. (Photo: PTI | File) Thiruvananthapuram: BJP President Amit Shah on Tuesday hit out at Kerala's CPI(M)-led LDF over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsibility for the "killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers." Addressing party workers at the Puthrikandam maidan in Thiruvananthapuram on the conclusion of the party's 15-day 'Jan Raksha' Yatra in the state, Shah alleged that the 13 workers were killed after the present government came to power in May, 2016. "I am asking the Kerala chief minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsibility for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power." "CM saheb, if you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology," he said. Shah said if the Marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of independence, "they are mistaken." "I will like to tell CPI(M) that it is not possible," the BJP chief said. He also asked Vijayan whether people had given him the mandate for elimination of BJP/RSS workers in the state. Earlier, Shah walked with party workers for about 2 km from the Martyr's column at Palayam to Putharikandam maidan, near the famous Padmanabhaswamy temple. The BJP chief waved and acknowledged greetings from thousands of BJP workers as he joined the yatra led by state party president, Kummanam Rajasekharan. He also paid tributes to party workers who had lost their lives in political violence in the state before addressing the public meeting. Shah had flagged-off the yatra at Payyannur in Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers, on October 3. The padayatra was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. Earlier, Rajesekharan denied allegations by the ruling CPI(M) and opposition congress that the march was to create communal divisions in the society. He also said the yatra had received 'tremendous' support from all sections of the people. Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan said the yatra was to save' the people of the state. The padayatra had criss-crossed 11 districts in the state with four chief ministers, including Yogi Aditiyanath of Uttar Pradesh, senior party leaders and Union ministers taking part in the high-pitched campaign against the ruling LDF. Remarks by BJP leaders also kicked up controversies as the march progressed. Adityanath wanted Kerala to learn from UP's record in health care and Goa chief minister Manohar Parikkar alleged that Kerala was being ruled by 'rogues', triggering counter remarks from the CPI-M. Shah had skipped the march through Pinarayi, the chief minister's home town, in Kannur district, as he had to rush to Delhi for an important meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah had walked about seven km from Payyannur to Pilathara in the district during the rally. Representatives of the NDA partners in the state - Tushar Vellapally of BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena), Tribal leader C K Janu of Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, P C Thomas of Kerala Congress (Thomas) were among those who attended the public meeting. According to the NGOs Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Election Watch BJP's declared asset has increased in 2015-16 from 2004-05. (Photo: File | PTI) Kolkata: The value of declared assets of BJP has increased to Rs 893.88 crore in 2015-16 from Rs 122.93 crore in 2004-05 while that of Congress, it has risen to Rs 758.79 crore from Rs 167.35 crore, according to the NGOs Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Election Watch. The value of assets of Trinamool Congress has seen a jump to Rs 44.99 crore during this 11-year from Rs 0.25 crore period, according to the figures released by ADR and Election Watch at a press conference, quoting declarations by the parties before the Election Commission. The total value of assets of CPI(M) has increased during the period by 383.47 per cent to Rs 437.78 crore from Rs 90.55 crore, ADR national coordinator Anil Verma said. The increase in value of assets of CPI has been the lowest - to Rs 10.18 crore from Rs 5.56 crore, he said. The value of assets of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has gone up to Rs 559.01 crore from Rs 43.09 crore and that of Nationalist Congress Party to Rs 14.54 crore from Rs 1.6 crore, Verma said. Verma said that declarations under 'other assets' are not easily verifiable. "While details are specific under fixed assets, loans and advances, FDR/deposits, TDS and investments, details are not available about assets under the heading 'other assets'. "The increase in assets of the seven national parties from 2004-05 to 2015-16 has had the highest rise under 'other assets' among all asset heads -- to Rs 1605.114 crore from Rs 108.655 crore," Verma said. "BJP has the highest capital at present after declaring Rs 868.889 crore, followed by Rs 557.38 crore of BSP and Rs 432.64 crore of CPI(M)," Verma said. Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R). Chinese media said, 'India has repeatedly expressed its concern over the project since the project is located in disputed Kashmir, but it won't affect cooperation between China and Pakistan, because the ties are unshakable and will not target India.' (Photo: File | PTI) New Delhi/Beijing: China plans to complete ahead of schedule a USD two billion hydropower project in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to ease energy crisis in Pakistan. Karot Hydropower Project is being built on Jhelum river on "Build-Own-Operate-Transfer" basis for 30 years. It will be owned by the Chinese company for 30 years, after which ownership will be turned over to the government of Pakistan. Karot Power Company Limited, a subsidiary of China Three Gorges South Asia Investment, owns the Karot Power Station, state-run Global Times reported on Tuesday. The company said in a statement that the project will help ease Pakistan's power shortage and generate local employment. The report has not mentioned the new timeline for the project. Karot Power Station has a capacity of 720 megawatts and China Three Gorges South Asia Investment also has other power projects in Pakistan, including hydro, wind and solar power, which would largely solve Pakistan's problem, it said. "India has repeatedly expressed its concern over the project since the project is located in disputed Kashmir, but it won't affect cooperation between China and Pakistan, because the ties are unshakable and will not target India," the daily quoted Hu Zhiyong, a research fellow at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of International Relations. "With China's support and assistance, Pakistan's power shortage will very likely be solved by 2025, which means a main obstacle to Pakistan's economic development will be removed," Hu said. The attack comes at a time when the saffron party is currently taking out a 'Janaraksha Yatra', protesting against attacks on its workers, allegedly by the CPI(M) workers in Kerala. (Representational Image | PTI) Agartala: National general secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Ram Madhav, on Monday, hit out at the Communist Party of India (Marxist), saying its cadres have gone berserk and converted Kerala into "killing fields". "Marxist party cadres have gone berserk. They have the clandestine support of the state government, converting Kerala into killing fields," said Madhav. Terming the CPI(M)'s ideology as violent, Madhav said the communists in their history have done violent things all over the world. "Communists in their history have done this all over the world. Communists' ideology itself is very violent. They have done this in Bengal earlier and they are doing this in Kerala and Tripura. Yesterday, one of our supporters was killed in Kerala. We have to fight against fascist violent forces of Communism and Marxism," Madhav asserted. The BJP leader also said that his party would propagate the "misdeeds" of the Left government through social media. Madhav's statement came a day after a RSS activist was allegedly attacked by CPM(I) workers in Kerala's Kannur. The local BJP unit had alleged the attack was the handiwork of CPI(M) workers. The attack comes at a time when the saffron party is currently taking out a 'Janaraksha Yatra', protesting against attacks on its workers, allegedly by the CPI(M) workers in Kerala. The march, which was flagged off by BJP chief Amit Shah at Kannur, will conclude at state capital Thiruvananthapuram on October 17. Chennai: President Ram Nath Kovind remembered former president Abdul Kalam on his birth anniversary (October 15) by inaugurating a series of functions at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan, but the state government here on Sunday failed to celebrate the iconic Kalam's anniversary as Youth Renaissance Day. Interestingly, it was late chief minister J Jayalalithaa who announced and passed government orders for the birth anniversary of the 'Missile Man' to be celebrated as the Youth Renaissance Day, but within two years the state has failed to remember the humble Kalam hailed as the people's president. Late AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa had described Kalam as a 'Nuclear Hero' who rose from humble origins. "In 2015, former chief minister J. Jayalalithaa announced that the state would observe Dr. Kalam's birthday as an annual Youth Renaissance Day. She also announced an award commemorating Dr Kalam and the award is to be given to a youth promoting science and humanities. While such state awards are usually given during Independence Day, the state has a tradition of celebrating birth anniversaries of iconic leaders, but this year no such significance was given to Kalam", confirmed a TN official. "As a saving grace at least a competition or science exhibition could have been conducted by the school education department," observed the official. However private schools and organisations in the state remembered Dr. Kalam by offering floral tributes to the iconic teacher and his hometown Rameshwaram celebrated the occasion in a grand manner, including at his memorial. Hyderabad: The Hyderabad High Court directed the state forest department not to evict Guttikoya tribals in the Thadvai forests of Jayashankar-Bhupalpally district. A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Ramesh Ranganathan and Justice M. Ganga Rao was dealing with a PIL by the Civil Liberties Committee (CLC) challenging the alleged illegal demolition of houses, a school and removal of a borewell apart from damaging the crops belonging to the tribals. The CLC, represented by its joint secretary Dr Gunti Ravinder, told the court that about 200 forest personnel on September 16 and razed all 36 houses and a school in Jalagalancha using two JCBs, tractors and bulldozers. Mr V. Raghunath, counsel for the petitioner, said the tribals were living in the village for 18 years and had Aadhaar, ration and voter identity cards. He said that when the residents, including women, protested the highhandedness of the forest personnel, they were bound to tress and flogged. Several villagers sustained injuries, he said. He urged the court to protect the rights of tribals besides issuing a direction to registere criminal cases against the forest personnel. Admitting the petition, the bench directed the authorities not to remove the tribals and immediately provide them drinking water. It issued notices directing the respondents to file counter affidavits within three weeks. TS request to lift NGT stay put off The TS government asked the Hyderabad High Court to take up hearing of its plea to vacate a stay granted by the National Green Tribunal at Delhi on the construction of the Kaleswaram lift irrigation scheme. Advocate-General D. Prakash Reddy told a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Ramesh Ranganathan and Justice G. Ganga Rao that the NGT had issued the interim stay in a hurried manner, asking the government to stop work till it obtained environmental clearances. He said that the government had told the NGT that the work underway at the project related to the drinking water component, and there was no need for environmental clearances for the work. The bench asked how it could stay the NGT order without seeing it. Mr Prakash Reddy said they couldnt get the order copy due to the holidays. At this, the bench said it would hear the case after the lunch session if the government could produce the order. As the government was unable to get the copy, the bench said it would hear the case later. After verification by relatives, the bodies were identified as those of Prabhakar Reddy (30), his wife Madhavi (26), and their son. The other two bodies were those of Reddy's elder sister Lakshmi (42) and her teenage daughter, an official who is part of the investigation said. (Photo: File/Representational) Hyderabad: Five persons - a married couple, their son and two relatives - were found dead under suspicious circumstances on the city's outskirts on Tuesday even as police suspect they might have committed suicide. "Three bodies - two of women and one of a teenage girl - were found in bushes in Shankarpalli area, while bodies of a man, and a boy, aged around 10, were found in a car some 2 km away," said Cyberabad Police Commissioner Sandeep Shandilya. The commissioner, along with other senior police officials, visited the scene upon getting the information. "A police team went to the spot and noticed insecticide smell emanating from the bushes," said Shandilya. "It seemed somebody dropped them (the three deceased) there. A car was found at a distance of 2 km from the bushes, where bodies of a man and a boy were found inside the vehicle," Shandilya said. Insecticide odour was also emanating from the insides of the car, he said. On Monday evening, a complaint about five members of two related families going missing was lodged with the Ameenpur Police Station in neighbouring Sanga Reddy district. After verification by relatives, the bodies were identified as those of Prabhakar Reddy (30), his wife Madhavi (26), and their son. The other two bodies were those of Reddy's elder sister Lakshmi (42) and her teenage daughter, an official who is part of the investigation said. "We are verifying how the incident happened...prima facie it appears suicide. However, whether they all consumed insecticide and died will be known only after the postmortem," the official said. A relative of the deceased told the media the five had on Monday gone to see a waterfall. Reddy's phone remained switched off since Monday evening after which a missing complaint was lodged. "We don't have any financial problems...we are unable to understand how it all happened...we don't have any enemies," he said. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday denied reports about gifting gold biscuits to every legislator for the diamond jubilee of the Vidhana Soudha. (Photo: File) Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday denied the reports about gifting gold biscuits to every legislator for the diamond jubilee of the Vidhana Soudha. "There are no gold biscuit or any other thing; there are no mementos" said Siddaramaiah in reference to the distribution of gold biscuits to MLAs and MLCs in the state. Ahead of the Assembly polls in 2018, the Legislature Secretariat is planning to celebrate the diamond jubilee of Vidhana Soudha on a grand scale. As part of the celebrations, it has proposed to gift gold biscuits, each costing about Rs 50,000 to legislators. The two-day fete will be celebrated on October 25 and 26. The celebration will further include a show on 3D mapping of the Vidhana Soudha. The Legislature Secretariat had also decided to present mementoes befitting the occasion, not only to the legislators but to its officers too. Meanwhile, the Secretariat has submitted a request for a grant of Rs 26 crore for the celebrations. Warangal: A man and a woman died in a fire that broke out at the Rohini super speciality hospital in Hanamkonda on Monday evening. There was chaos inside the hospital after the fire broke out. The hospital staff moved all patients outside the hospital building. There were 199 patients in the hospital at the time, including 50 in the intensive care unit. They were shifted to other nearby private hospitals in ambulances. Police and fire-fighters had to break the window panes to get into the hospital to rescue patients. Dr Vijaya Chander Reddy, a member of the hospital management, said due to the fire safety measures inside the hospital, they were able to ensure that the fire did not spread to other rooms. We called up other nearby hospitals and requested them to accommodate some of the patients. We shifted them in ambulances. We were able to save all the patients except one, he said. Deputy chief minister Kadiam Srihari inspected the operation theatre where the fire broke out. He enquired about the safety of the patients and directed the police to conduct a thorough enquiry into the incident. Once the enquiry is complete we will be able to find out what caused the fire and who is responsible, he said. Two of the rescued crew members of the Emerald Star in a Xiamen hospital. Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured 11 crew members who were rescued. (Photo: MEA | Twitter) New Delhi: The government is using aircraft and vessels to search for 10 Indian crew members, who went missing after their cargo ship sank in the Pacific off the Philippines last week, the external affairs ministry said, on Monday. They also said that five Indian crew members of Emerald Star are in Irene, the Philippines, and countrys mission is bringing them to Manila before repatriation to India. Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of Emerald Star in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen. Search for missing 10 crew members still ongoing using aircraft and vessels. We will keep posting regular updates on further developments, ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of 'Emerald Star' in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen pic.twitter.com/tKXWwKzfng Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 16, 2017 Search for missing 10 crew members still ongoing using aircraft and vessels. We will keep posting regular updates on further developments. Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 16, 2017 On Friday, the 33,205-tonne cargo ship Emerald Star with 26 Indian nationals on board sank off Okinawa. While 16 Indians were rescued, a search for the missing crew members was launched by Indian missions in the Philippines, Japan and China to locate them. Travel Ban 3.0 Blocked by Federal Judge in Hawaii The latest iteration of President Trump's Executive Order banning foreign immigrants and visitors from Muslim majority nations has been blocked by a federal judge in Hawaii. No, you're not suffering from deja vu. Judge Derrick Watson, the same judge that blocked the second travel ban, temporarily blocked travel ban 3.0 from going into effect. This newest iteration of the executive order travel restrictions was set to go into effect on October 18, 2017. Preliminary Injunction Granted Judge Watson issued a temporary injunction preventing the travel ban from being enforced nationwide, not just in Hawaii. Judge Watson explained that the executive order "plainly discriminates based on nationality" in violation of federal law. Additionally, he noted that the newest executive order suffers from the same problems as the previous one: namely, not being based upon sufficient findings nor evidence. In granting the temporary order blocking the travel ban, a preliminary injunction was ordered. A preliminary injunction is a legal device that a party to a lawsuit can request a court order to prevent immediate, irreparable harm from occurring, before the lawsuit has a chance to be fully heard by a judge or jury. In order to grant a preliminary injunction, however, a judge must be all but certain that the requesting party will win their case. To reach that level of certainty, courts will accept evidence from both sides, and thoroughly research and analyze the legal issues involved. Preliminary injunctions are rarely granted as the burden on the party requesting them is exceedingly difficult to meet. Supreme Interest Interestingly, the Supreme Court recently dismissed the challenge to travel ban 2.0 on the grounds that it had expired by its own operation. Additionally, the challenges to the prior travel bans were set to be heard before the High Court, but were taken off calendar, presumably due to the timing issues of the three bans. While it is all but certain that the federal appellate court will be asked to review Judge Watson's order, it is likely too late in the year for SCOTUS to get involved. However, depending on how the Supreme Court handles the first travel ban case which is still on the docket, the travel ban 3.0 case could be severely impacted. The Department of Justice has already announced plans to appeal. Related Resources: The fishermen are from Thangachimadam in Rameswaram, the police said. (Representational Image | PTI) Rameswaram: Eight fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly fishing in their territorial waters off Thalaimannar coast on Tuesday, the police said, on Tuesday. According to information, the Sri Lankan Navy also seized the boat and have taken the fishermen to Thalaimannar district naval camp, they said. The fishermen are from Thangachimadam in Rameswaram, the police said. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Information Technology Minister M Manikandan said that the state government will take up the matter of the arrest with the Centre. On October 12, five fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan navy for allegedly fishing off Neduntheevu. Swaraj directed the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to grant a visa to a Pakistani girl suffering from eye cancer. (Photo: PTI | File) New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is known to address the grievances of Indians abroad, who inform her about their problems through Twitter. This time, she has come to the rescue of a five-year-old Pakistani girl, suffering from eye cancer, and three others. Swaraj has directed the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to immediately grant a medical visa to Anamta Farrukh, for her treatment in India. The child's parents had sought Swaraj's help. "There is a request for medical visa for 5 year old child who is suffering from eye cancer for her treatment in India. I have asked @IndiainPakistan to issue medical visa for treatment of the child in India immediately," she said on Twitter on Monday. There is a request for medical visa for 5 year old child Anamta Farrukh who is suffering from eye cancer for her treatment in India. /1 Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) October 16, 2017 I have asked @IndiainPakistan to issue medical visa for treatment of the child in India immediately. /2 Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) October 16, 2017 She further stated that another Pakistani child, requiring bone marrow transplant was also being given visa for treatment in India. "We are giving medical visa for the bone marrow transplant surgery of your son in India. I pray for his early recovery here," Swaraj said to the father of the boy, identified as Shehriyar. We are giving medical visa for the bone marrow transplant surgery of your son in India. I pray for his early recovery here. https://t.co/Q5o2PW9qsD Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) October 16, 2017 Apart from these two children, the External Affairs Minister also announced that two Pakistani men were also being given medical visas for liver transplant. "We have approved medical visa for the liver transplant of your father Syed Baseer Imam Zaidi and pray for his long life," she said. We have approved medical visa for the liver transplant of your father Syed Baseer Imam Zaidi and pray for his long life. https://t.co/P9uyPTkXRK Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) October 16, 2017 Zaidi's son Syed Adnan had requested Swaraj to facilitate the visa approval for his father. "I have asked Indian High Commission in Pakistan to issue visa for the liver transplant surgery of your father in India," she responded to the plea of another Pakistani national on Twitter. Swaraj has been taking a sympathetic approach in granting medical visas to Pakistani nationals, notwithstanding strain in ties between India and Pakistan over a host of issues, including cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Bengaluru: With clogged drains causing flooding across the city recently, the BBMP has taken certain precautionary measures to keep the city clean and free of pollution during the Deepavali festivities. In an official communication issued on Monday, BBMP Commissioner N. Manjunath Prasad directed the officials to ensure that the city is free of cracker waste. He requested citizens to keep their surroundings and streets free of litter. Mr Prasad asked the public not to clog drains by dumping burnt crackers waste and puja items. It is noticed that street vendors and establishments set up shops on pavements for the festival and later dump the waste into the drains, which clog the drains and obstruct the flow of rain water causing floods. Rather, they should collect the waste and hand it over to the BBMPs garbage collection vehicle, the next day, he said. The BBMP is prepared to handle emergencies that might occur while bursting crackers. The public who sustain burns or any other form of injuries during a firecracker incident can rush to the nearest BBMP health centres or hospitals. The staff at health centres are directed to keep them open from 9 am to 4 pm on festive days. Hospitals can provide first-aid to victims and shift them to other hospitals, depending on severity, he said. The public should avoid bursting of high-intensity crackers that cause noise and air pollution, causing breathing problems and lung infections among children and elderly people. Citizens can register complaints on 080-22660000/22221188. Hyderabad: The Hyderabad High Court has upheld the detention of N. Sridhar Goud, a close associate of slain gangster Nayeemuddin, under the Preventive Detention Act, 1986 by the Rachakonda police. A division bench comprising Justice P.V. Sanjay Kumar and Justice Shameem Akhter was dismissing a habeas corpus petition filed by Gouds wife. His counsel contended that the order of detention was passed in a mechanical manner without application of mind on vague, irrelevant and non-existent grounds describing eight incidents between January 21 and August 18, 2016. The complaints were based on confessions of co-accused and Goud had no role played in the incidents, the counsel said. The Rachakonda police commissioner submitted that he was a goonda and had been habitually committing grave and gruesome unlawful activities like kidnapping, extortions, murders, attempts to murders, criminal trespass, land grabbing, etc., affecting public order. This created fear and a feeling of insecurity among the people, the police officer told the court. Justice Sanjay Kumar and Justice Akhter said that it was evident from Gouds record that he and the other accused habitually, continuously committing offences punishable under the Indian Penal Code and other laws. His activities had a prejudicial effect on society as a whole, as well as public order, the court said. Kochi: The unidentified bodies in Kochi tell a gruesome tale. In the last six years, 395 unidentified bodies were found in Kochi, according to the statistics with the General Hospital, Ernakulam. On an average, the hospital receives 60 bodies a year and five a month. During this period Kerala, witnessed 2,224 murders across the state as per the crime statistics with the police department. The hospital hands over the bodies to private medical colleges in the state. Through this, Rs 1.49 crore was credited to the hospital account. The hospital gives embalmed bodies for Rs 40,000 each, non-embalmed for ` 20,000 and skeleton for Rs 10,000. The data was collected by Raju Vazhakkala, an RTI activist, from Ms Shobha John, deputy superintendent with the General Hospital. "The data is alarming and the cops should launch a probe into the huge number of unidentified deaths in the city limits," Raju told DC. The hospital utilises the money as per the government orders and strictly for the expenses related to the functioning of mortuary. The unidentified bodies are kept in the government mortuary for three days and then handed over to the hospitals without post-mortem. The hospital considers the requests of the private and other hospitals in the state before handing them over, the RTI reply reveals. The college management said that some 20 students had to go for a programme in Cantonment in which most colleges are participating. (Representational Image) Hyderabad: College students being utilised for voter verification drive in Secunderbad Cantonment is not going down well with family members. Its understandable if students come forward to participate in such drives, but what is the point in pressuring them to go to each house in a ward and take details, asked Abdul Rasheed, a B.Tech student from Secunderabad. He said that his younger brother, who is pursuing undergraduation, was taken to Cantonment workshop along with 15 of his classmates. The college management said that some 20 students had to go for a programme in Cantonment in which most colleges are participating. Once they reached Cantonment workshop, authorities gave them a list of papers and asked them to visit each house and take voter details of all members, Mr Abdul Rasheed said. Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Monday made a strong plea for tapping from the abundant solar power as that would meet all the energy needs of the nation and its people while enhancing sustainability, reducing pollution and lowering the cost of mitigating climate change. We are blessed with abundant solar energy. It is high time we tap the solar energy. We should develop affordable, inexhaustible and clean solar energy technologies to have huge long-term benefits, Governor Purohit said at a function where Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu commissioned the solar power plant at the Raj Bhavan and released his predecessor Ch Vidyasagar Raos book, Those Eventful Days.... The book, interestingly, is published by the Raj Bhavan. Governor Purohit said the Rig Veda (3.2.3) talked about the multiple technologies developed from solar energy for long term benefits. Such is the richness of our Vedas. They not only enlighten one on spiritual means but also on science. I am told that the total solar energy absorbed by earths atmosphere oceans and land masses is approximately 38,50,000 (EJ) Exajoules per year. It would be interesting to note that the amount of solar energy reaching the surface of the planet is so vast that in one year it is about twice as much as will ever be obtained from all the earths non-renewable resources such as coal, oil, natural gas and uranium, he said. Even as India was now all set to be the world's third-biggest solar market by next year, after China and the US, and the nations mission was to produce 40 per cent of its power from non-fossil fuels by 2030, Prime Minister Narendra Modis initiative to connect all un-electrified rural and urban households with power connection under The Saubhagya Yojana should be hailed, the Governor said, pointing out that the PM had set a target of producing 175 gigawatt clean energy by 2022 through solar, wind and Hydro projects. The Governor complimented his predecessor Ch Vidyasagar Rao for his initiatives to install 400 kWp solar power plant in Raj Bhavan at a cost of `4.45 crores, which would meet 80 per cent of the Bhavans energy needs and save nearly `45 lakhs annually. Have you ever wondered where does gold come from? Well, a cosmic cooking pot could probably be the answer. When scientists detected for the first time light tied to a gravitational-wave event, this was discovered. Thanks to two merging neutron stars located about 130 million light-years from the Earth in the constellation named Hydra. "For the first time ever, we measured spacetime ripples (gravitational waves) and light from the same source in the universe," Karan Jani, an Indian-born astrophysicist and part of the LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) team that made this discovery, told IANS. Crashing neutron stars may be the universe's dominant source for many of the heaviest elements, including platinum and gold. "The collision provides us clues on how heavy elements like gold and platinum are produced in our cosmos," Jani said. "Each element of gold that we love to show off in our jewellery, has reached our Earth after traveling from such collision of neutron stars from millions of light years from galaxies far far away. Yes, all of us carrying the pride of wearing gold are carrying relics from such cosmic events," he added. On August 17, LIGO in the US, working with the Virgo Interferometer in Italy, detected gravitational waves passing the Earth. This event following the neutron star merger was named GW170817. About two seconds later, two space observatories, NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope and European Space Agency's INTErnational Gamma Ray Astrophysics Laboratory (INTEGRAL), detected a short gamma-ray burst from the same area of the sky. Several scientific papers describing and interpreting these observations have now been published in the journal Science, Nature, Physical Review Letters and The Astrophysical Journal. Neutron stars are one of the smallest stars in the universe and form when a star much more massive than the Sun runs out of nuclear fuel and collapses to form an extremely dense and small object. It is heavier than the Sun but its diameter is the size of an average city like Kolkata. Such is the density of these bodies that a spoon of neutron star material can be as heavy as Mount Everest. "The process (merger of neutron stars) leaves signatures in both gravitational and electromagnetic waves whose detection and exploration can potentially revolutionise our understanding of the universe," said Dibyendu Nandi, head, Center of Excellence in Space Sciences India (CESSI) at IISER Kolkata. "The very high energy released in this process sustains exotic phenomena that may have produced a major fraction of the gold in the universe," he said. As many 40 scientists from 13 Indian institutions are part of the LIGO-Virgo discovery paper, according to Tarun Souradeep, LIGO India spokesperson. This discovery is also extremely significant given that this is the first time that both gravitational and electromagnetic waves from a cosmic event were detected together, said Nandi. "We now get to see both sides of the coin," Nandi told IANS. The neutron stars merged in a galaxy called NGC 4993. "This detection is significant in three remarkable ways - first, it allows us to independently test Einstein's General Theory of Relativity as we recorded two different forms of radiation - gravitational waves and light - originating from the same astrophysical source," Jani said. "Secondly we were able to constrain the expansion of our universe and subsequently measure the age of our universe, and thirdly the collision provides us clues on how heavy elements like gold and platinum are produced in our cosmos," he added. Indian scientists contributed to the fundamental algorithms crucial to search for inspiraling binaries in noisy data from multiple detectors, computing waveforms for these signals by solving Einstein's equations, tests of Einstein's theory and many other aspects of the data analysis, said Souradeep. In addition, several Indian telescopes such as AstroSat, Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) and the Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) participated in the search for electromagnetic flashes. The sensitive CZTI instrument on AstroSat helped narrow down the location of the gamma-ray flashes. HCT obtained optical images at locations of neutrinos detected by other telescopes at the same time as the burst, and showed that they were unrelated to the gravitational-wave trigger. The sensitive CZTI instrument on AstroSat helped narrow down the location of the gamma-ray flashes. HCT obtained optical images at locations of neutrinos detected by other telescopes at the same time as the burst, and showed that they were unrelated to the gravitational-wave trigger. The Indian team in LIGO includes scientists from CMI Chennai, ICTS-TIFR Bangalore, IISER Kolkata, IISER Trivandrum, IIT Bombay, IIT Gandhinagar, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Madras, IPR Gandhinagar, IUCAA Pune, RRCAT Indore, TIFR Mumbai and UAIR Gandhinagar. Astronomers from IISER Pune, IIT Bombay, IUCAA Pune, TIFR Mumbai, PRL Ahmedabad, IIT Hyderabad, IIA Bangalore, NCRA-TIFR Pune, ARIES Nainital and IIST Trivandrum participated in the electromagnetic follow-up of this event using a variety of telescopes. Previous detections of gravitational waves have all involved the merger of two black holes, a feat that won the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics earlier in October. Dr. Karan Jani is a Vadodara-born astrophysicist and part of the LIGO team that made this discovery. For his research on gravitational waves, Forbes listed Jani as one of the 30 scientists under 30 that are changing the world and was a recipient of the 2016 Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics. He was also invited to meet the Hon. PM of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on the role of expanding LIGO research in India. Pioneers of the LIGO experiment were awarded the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics. Dr Jani says: What a time to be alive and be doing science! For the first time ever, we measured spacetime ripples (aka gravitational waves) and light from the same source in the universe! Our understanding of light and gravity fundamentally changed a century ago thanks to Albert Einsteins Theory of Relativity, and the fact that today we see events in the universe where both these concepts are so elegantly intertwined would have brought smile on Einsteins face. Along with the gravitational detectors LIGO (US) and Virgo (Europe), some 70 observatories and telescope around the world (and space) allowed us to measure the collision two neutron stars. These stars are about the mass of our Sun, but has a radius of just about 15 km, making them the most extreme matter objects in the universe. "This detection is significant in three remarkable ways - first, it allows us to independently test Einstein's General Theory of Relativity as we are recorded two different form of radiation - gravitational waves and light - originating from the same astrophysical source, secondly we were able to constrain the expansion of our universe and subsequently measure the Age of our Universe, and thirdly the collision provides us clues on how heavy elements like gold and platinum are produced in our cosmos. Each element of gold that we love to show off in our jewellery, has reached our earth after traveling from such collision of neutron stars from millions of light years from galaxies far far away. Yes, all of us carrying the pride of wearing gold are carrying relics from such cosmic events!" "This discovery opens up the long-awaited era of multimessenger astronomy. As a scientist, It is very reassuring to see that India is investing in a field that is just beginning. In future, with LIGO-India we will be able to more precisely constrain the sky-location of such events as well as the extreme matter physics of such neutron stars. Building such mega-science projects allows Indian universities to participate in cutting-edge research, which ultimately trickles down all the way to impacting undergraduate education. Imagine first-year college students from local colleges and state universities analyzing spacetime rhythms from events that occurred even before life started on this planet! In combination of other grand science projects, including India's very own space observatory ASTROSAT as well funding one of world's biggest telescope (Thirty Metre Telescope), I can proudly say there has never been a better time to do space related science in India." with inputs from IANS Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. In another controversy related to the social media giant, Facebook has been accused of exposing a porn stars secret identity to the people she dealt with in her professional life. The victim is from California. The sex worker discovered that the People You May Know section on her Facebook timeline was suggesting people from her professional life. They were people who were contacts on her professional Facebook account. The worst nightmare of sex workers is to have your real name out there and Facebook connecting people like this is the harbinger of that nightmare, she said in an interview to Gizmodo. With all the precautions we take and the different phone numbers we use, why the f*** are they showing up? Now it wouldnt need you to be a rocket scientist to decipher the possibilities for this error that Facebook committed. Facebook tracks locations of its users in every session and it could have been possible that Facebooks clever algorithms became clever enough to understand that the location of the sex worker and her client were together for a considerable amount of time, and took them to be actual friends. It could also have been possible the algorithms somehow managed to match her personal account with her professional account and started suggesting mutual friends. The same case could have happened for her clients accounts and they could have led her to blackmail the sex worker. So there you have it if you have a secret identity and are looking to separate your personal and professional life on Facebook, it might be possible that the computer Gods will be able to find you out and expose them to the world. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. The degree of sophistication in terms of tools and the skilled manpower of the hackers behind these groups suggest that some of them are state-sponsored actors. From spying, stealing, and leaking state, military, and trade secrets, cybersecurity researchers at Kaspersky Lab discovered that cybercriminals operating in the region now aim for monetary gain as they infect banks in APAC countries. The global cybersecurity company said active Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups have successfully breached financial institutions in Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia, Philippines, China (Hong Kong), Bangladesh, and Vietnam. This year, we have monitored the tectonic shift in APT actors behaviour. These groups who are initially data-hungry are now going beyond traditional cyberespionage. They added money-stealing on their attack menu as they hunt for vulnerable banks in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region which they can infect mostly through the rising epidemic, says Yury Namestnikov, Head of Research Center, Russia at Kaspersky Labs Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT). In 2017, Kaspersky Lab has been able to monitor active APT actors in the region, namely the infamous Lazarus group and Cobaltgoblin other groups that use Carbanak-style attacks. Lazarus is the cyber gang believed to be behind massive breaches including the Sony Pictures hack in 2014 and the multi-million cyber robbery against the Central Bank of Bangladesh last year. They are known for hacking C&C servers of banks and governments as launchpads for their malicious campaigns. Carbanak made headlines in 2014 for the $1-billion bank heists in Russia, Ukraine, Germany, and China dubbed as The Great Bank Robbery. The group infiltrated their victims networks through spear phishing emails or infected Word documents exploiting known vulnerabilities. With remote and covert access to the system, they gained control of the banks ATMs or websites and collected a significant amount of money. The degree of sophistication in terms of tools and the skilled manpower of the hackers behind these groups suggest that some of them are state-sponsored actors. Actors are switching towards using legitimate software instead of deploying unique malicious programs, which can allow them to perform the attack stealthy. Also, they penetrated networks by supply chain attacks: in last three months, there were four huge incidents of these similar patterns. In terms of monetisation, it could be attacks against ATM infrastructure, SWIFT servers or databases with transactions and debit/credit cards information. They are undoubtedly investing time, money, and effort so they can have good Return on Investment (ROI). So far, we can assume that cybercriminals are earning good ROI when attacking financial institutions in the region, adds Namestnikov. The exact monetary losses from financial institutions attacks in APAC are unconfirmed as of this time but Kaspersky Lab researchers report having been able to foil breaches before financial firms could lose their money. In order to protect enterprises from sophisticated financial threats, the global cybersecurity company suggests the use of a highly sophisticated solution that enables businesses to detect targeted attacks and other malicious actions through careful monitoring of network activity, web, and email like the Kaspersky Anti Targeted Attack Platform. Kaspersky Lab also highlights the importance of threat intelligence to keep financial institutions knowledgeable on the latest trends of threats against banks. The global cybersecurity company has a portfolio of Threat Intelligence services designed to mitigate massive attacks by providing enterprises with insights on the latest, constantly emerging threats currently targeting businesses around the world. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. The Karen National Union (KNU) said that more than 20,000 local residents have been forced to flee after two consecutive days of airstrikes by the... The plans can be purchased from the company website under the Vodafone Red 499 Unlimited plan. Telecom giant Vodafone recently rolled out a new Rs 399 plan to counter Airtel and Reliance Jios Diwali special offers. The plan offers 90GB of data and unlimited calling for just Rs 399. Ever since the news came out, theres been a lot of buzz around the plan being a hoax and claims that Vodafone has no such offers planned for its subscribers. This made us reach out to Vodafone to confirm the existence of this new plan. Heres what Vodafone replied to Deccan Chronicle in an email: Vodafone is offering a monthly Rs 499 rental (excluding tax) postpaid plan to its prepaid customers who are looking to move to postpaid, at a monthly discount of Rs 100 per month for 6 months. In this plan the customer will get unlimited Local & STD calls along with 5GB data. For 4G handset users additional 60GB data (10 GB per month for 6 months) can be availed through My Vodafone App. So total data in 6 months is 90GB for 4G handset users. This plan is valid only for our customers who convert from Vodafone prepaid to Vodafone postpaid in Delhi Circle only and is valid till 31st Oct17. ALSO READ: Vodafone counters Airtel, Jio; offers exciting Diwali offers Therefore, the Rs 399 plan with unlimited calling and 90GB of data is not a monthly plan, but a Rs 499 plan with a discount of Rs 100 per month and 90GB of data spread across six months at 10GB per month. However, this offer is only valid for those customers who migrate from prepaid to postpaid accounts. The plans can be purchased from the company website under the Vodafone Red 499 Unlimited plan. Click here for more information or to switch your existing plan. Other offers under the Red plans go up to Rs 2,999 which offers unlimited calling and a whopping 420GB for six months. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Companies of all stripes now are ramping up efforts to find and fix bugs in their software amid a wave of damaging hacking attacks. (Photo: AFP) Microsoft Corps secret internal database for tracking bugs in its own software was broken into by a highly sophisticated hacking group more than four years ago, according to five former employees, in only the second known breach of such a corporate database. The company did not disclose the extent of the attack to the public or its customers after its discovery in 2013, but the five former employees described it to Reuters in separate interviews. Microsoft declined to discuss the incident. The database contained descriptions of critical and unfixed vulnerabilities in some of the most widely used software in the world, including the Windows operating system. Spies for governments around the globe and other hackers covet such information because it shows them how to create tools for electronic break-ins. The Microsoft flaws were fixed likely within months of the hack, according to the former employees. Yet speaking out for the first time, these former employees, as well as US officials informed of the breach by Reuters, said it alarmed them because the hackers could have used the data at the time to mount attacks elsewhere, spreading their reach into government and corporate networks. Bad guys with inside access to that information would literally have a skeleton key for hundreds of millions of computers around the world, said Eric Rosenbach, who was US deputy assistant secretary of defence for cyber at the time. Companies of all stripes now are ramping up efforts to find and fix bugs in their software amid a wave of damaging hacking attacks. Many firms, including Microsoft, pay security researchers and hackers bounties for information about flaws increasing the flow of bug data and rendering efforts to secure the material more urgent than ever. In an email responding to questions from Reuters, Microsoft said: Our security teams actively monitor cyber threats to help us prioritise and take appropriate action to keep customers protected. Sometime after learning of the attack, Microsoft went back and looked at breaches of other organizations around then, the five ex-employees said. It found no evidence that the stolen information had been used in those breaches. Two current employees said the company stands by that assessment. Three of the former employees assert the study had too little data to be conclusive. Microsoft tightened up security after the breach, the former employees said, walling the database off from the corporate network and requiring two authentications for access. The dangers posed by information on such software vulnerabilities became a matter of broad public debate this year, after a National Security Agency stockpile of hacking tools was stolen, published and then used in the destructive WannaCry attacks against UK hospitals and other facilities. After WannaCry, Microsoft President Brad Smith compared the NSAs loss to the the US military having some of its Tomahawk missiles stolen, and cited the damage to civilians that comes from hoarding these vulnerabilities. Only one breach of a big database from a software company has been disclosed. In 2015, the nonprofit Mozilla Foundation which develops the Firefox web browser said an attacker had gotten access to a database that included 10 severe and unpatched flaws. One of those flaws was then leveraged in an attack on Firefox users, Mozilla disclosed at the time. In contrast to Microsofts approach, Mozilla provided extensive details of the breach and urged its customers to take action. Mozilla Chief Business and Legal Officer Denelle Dixon said the foundation told the public about what it knew in 2015 not only inform and help protect our users, but also to help ourselves and other companies learn, and finally because openness and transparency are core to our mission. The Microsoft matter should remind companies to treat accurate bug reports as the keys to the kingdom, said Mark Weatherford, who was deputy undersecretary for cybersecurity at the US Department of Homeland Security when Microsoft learned of the breach. Like the Pentagons Rosenbach, Weatherford said he had not known of the Microsoft attack. Weatherford noted that most companies have strict security procedures around intellectual property and other sensitive corporate information. Your bug repository should be equally important, he said. ALARM SPREADS AFTER INTERNAL PROBE Microsoft discovered the database breach in early 2013 after a highly skilled hacking group broke into computers at a number of major tech companies, including Apple Inc, Facebook Inc and Twitter Inc. The group, variously called Morpho, Butterfly and Wild Neutron by security researchers elsewhere, exploited a flaw in the Java programming language to penetrate employees Apple Macintosh computers and then move to company networks. The group remains active as one of the most proficient and mysterious hacking groups known to be in operation, according to security researchers. Experts cant agree on whether it is backed by a national government, let alone which one. More than a week after stories about the breaches first appeared in 2013, Microsoft published a brief statement that portrayed its own break-in as limited and made no reference to the bug database. As reported by Facebook and Apple, Microsoft can confirm that we also recently experienced a similar security intrusion, the company said on February 22, 2013. We found a small number of computers, including some in our Mac business unit, that were infected by malicious software using techniques similar to those documented by other organizations. We have no evidence of customer data being affected, and our investigation is ongoing. Inside the company, alarm spread as officials realised the database for tracking patches had been compromised, according to the five former security employees. They said the database was poorly protected, with access possible via little more than a password. Concerns that hackers were using stolen bugs to conduct new attacks prompted Microsoft to compare the timing of those breaches with when the flaws had entered the database and when they were patched, according to the five former employees. These people said the study concluded that even though the bugs in the database were used in ensuing hacking attacks, the perpetrators could have gotten the information elsewhere. That finding helped justify Microsofts decision not to disclose the breach, the former employees said, and in many cases patches already had been released to its customers. Three of the five former employees Reuters spoke with said the study could not rule out stolen bugs having been used in follow-on attacks. They absolutely discovered that bugs had been taken, said one. Whether or not those bugs were in use, I dont think they did a very thorough job of discovering. Thats partly because Microsoft relied on automated reports from software crashes to tell when attacks started showing up. The problem with this approach, some security experts say, is that most sophisticated attacks do not cause crashes, and the most targeted machines such as those with sensitive government information are the least likely to allow automated reporting. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Tensions have soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between US President Donald Trump and N Korean leader Kim Jong Un. (Photo: AFP) Tokyo/United States: The United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, deputy secretary of state John J Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang while it continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks, Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst should diplomacy fail, he said. Tensions have soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Leaflets apparently from North Korea calling Trump a mad dog and depicting gruesome images of him have turned up across central Seoul in recent days, adding an unusually personal element to North Korean propaganda. The situation on the Korean peninsula where the attention of the whole world is focused has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment, North Koreas Deputy UN ambassador Kim In Ryong told a UN General Assembly committee on Monday. As long as one does not take part in the US military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country, according to Kims prepared remarks for the discussion on nuclear weapons. Kim did not read that section out loud. The UN Security Council has unanimously ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since 2006. The most recent UN sanctions banned exports of coal, iron ore and seafood, aimed at cutting off one-third of North Koreas total annual exports of $3 billion. Experts say North Korea has been scrambling to find alternative sources of hard currency to keep its economy afloat and to advance its weapons programme further. North Koreas Lazarus hacking group was likely responsible for a recent cyber heist in Taiwan, cyber-security firm BAE Systems Plc said on Monday. Taiwans Central News Agency reported last week that while hackers sought to steal some $60 million from the Far Eastern Bank, all but $500,000 had been recovered by the bank. BAE Systems and other cyber firms have previously linked Lazarus to last years $81 million cyber heist at Bangladeshs central bank. North Korea had also recently allowed citizens as young as 12 to bet on local horse races for the first time, state news agency KCNA reported. Punters had previously risked three years hard labour for gambling in the reclusive and tightly controlled state, but the growing importance of private markets meant more people had money to spend on leisure, experts said. You may have ridiculed Kim Jong Un for constructing lavish facilities while struggling to feed the people, but those things are to make foreign currency, not from foreigners but from the well-offs inside North Korea because you have to pay in U.S. dollars or Chinese renminbi there, said Lee Sang-keun, a researcher at the Institute of Unification Studies of Ewha Womans University in Seoul. Many North Koreans make lots of money from the market, dine at hamburger restaurants and go shopping, all of which help fatten regime coffers. Thats part of the reason why the regime still has some financial latitude despite international sanctions. World Bank said it would continue to support the country to implement its broad economic reforms. (Representational Image) Washington: Pakistan needs around $ 17 billion to cover rising current account deficit and debt payments in the year 2018, the World Bank has said reiterating that it would continue to support the country to implement its broad economic reforms. "Pakistan is facing headwinds in the external sector and a rising fiscal deficit that could put macro-economic management at risk," the Bank said, after it concluded talks with a visiting Pakistani delegation on the sidelines of the annual meeting of International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. "This has resulted in increased external financing needs of 5-6 per cent of GDP in financial year 2018, or around $ 17 billion, to cover rising current account deficit and debt payments," the bank said. The Pakistan delegation included Shahid Mahmood, Secretary, Finance Division, Tariq Bajwa, Governor the State Bank of Pakistan, and Arif Ahmed Khan, Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division. They met with a World Bank team led by Annette Dixon, Vice President, South Asia Region. On the macro-economic outlook, the discussions acknowledged that Pakistan has done well in stabilising its economy over the past four years, and in achieving 10-year high growth of 5.3 per cent in financial year 2017, a statement said. Following the talks, the Bank said, "it would continue to support" Pakistan to implement broad economic reforms and address current risks towards achieving its development aspirations. Akshay Ruparelia has already sold 100 million pounds worth of properties since he set up his business. (Photo: Akshay Ruparelia | Facebook) London: An Indian-origin teenager has become one of Britain's youngest millionaires after his online estate agency business got valued at 12 million pounds in just over a year. Akshay Ruparelia, at just 19 years of age, juggled his school work with negotiating property deals for his no-frills business that offers to sell properties for a fraction of the cost charged by established high street estate agents. This week "doorsteps.co.uk" became the 18th biggest estate agency in the UK just 16 months after the website went live. Ruparelia claims to have already sold 100 million pounds worth of properties since he set up his business. "I got the website up and running and after a couple of weeks a man in Sussex asked me to sell his home and a separate chunk of land he owned beside it. "I had to pay my sister's boyfriend 40 pounds to drive me to Sussex to take photographs of the house, as I hadn't passed my driving test and didn't have a car," he recalls. The north London-based schoolboy was able to sell the property and land within three weeks, which set the ball rolling. He started his company with 7,000 pounds, borrowed from relatives and now employs 12 people. In the initial stages of his business, he hired a call centre to answer calls coming in to his work while he was at school and would return the calls after his classes. His model is based on hiring an ever-expanding network of self-employed mothers across the UK, who show clients around the properties he has been asked to sell. The teenage tycoon believes his model is set to turn the property selling market away from agents in flashy suits. "Quite rightly people trust mums. Every mum who works for me will be honest and tell the truth. It is important. For the majority of people selling their home is the biggest financial transaction of their lives," he told the 'Daily Mirror'. Ruparelia attributes the idea to set up a small business to reading the biography of no-frills airline Ryanair founder Michael O Leary. "Mr O Leary began by selling flights for just 4.99 pounds. His point was that if you can offer customers something at a price they can't believe and you deliver what you say you will, you hook people in and your business will work," he said. The schoolboy is now well on his way to support his two deaf parents, who he says are very proud of him. His father, 57-year-old Kaushik, is a care worker and mother, 51-year-old Renuka, is a teaching assistant for deaf children and a support worker for deaf children with Camden Council in London. Ruparelia has got an offer to study economics and mathematics at Oxford University but has decided to put that on hold to grow his business. He began by paying himself 500 pounds a month from the profits, which he has increased to 1,000 pounds a month and is saving up to buy his first car. The wreckage of the car of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia lies next to a road in the town of Mosta, Malta, Monday, Oct. 16, 2017. (Photo: AP) Valletta: Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nations links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car, the prime minister said. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Maltas main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicles wreckage spiraling over a wall and into a field, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. Caruana Galizias death resulted from a barbaric attack that also amounted to an assault on freedom of expression, Muscat said. He said the journalist was one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level as he denounced her slaying. One of the topics she examined was the Maltese content in the Panama Papers leaked in 2016. She wrote that Muscats wife, the countrys energy minister and the governments chief-of-staff had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. Muscat and his wife, Michelle, denied they had companies in Panama. Caruana Galizia filed a police report two weeks ago saying she was receiving threats, law enforcement officials told Malta news outlets on Monday. The slain journalist had written a twice-weekly column for The Malta Independent since 1996 and wrote a blog, Running Commentary. A half hour before she was killed, she posted to her website an item about a libel claim the prime ministers chief of staff had brought against a former opposition over comments the latter made about corruption. Caruana Galizia herself had been sued for libel over blog entries. Opposition leader Adrian Delia sued her over stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London. Economy Minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote that he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. Monday evenings Parliament session was scrapped, except for briefings about the bombing given by Muscat and Delia, who called the reporters slaying a political murder. Muscat said he has asked the US government and the FBI for help investigating the car bombing. Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband and three sons. One son, Matthew, was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal. The leak exposed the identities of rich and powerful people around the world who allegedly had offshore holdings in Panama. Caruana Galizias family has asked the Courts of Malta to replace the magistrate assigned to conduct the inquiry into the journalists death. The family said the magistrate, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, in her personal capacity, had launched judicial procedures against (Caruana Galizia) regarding comments she had written. Caruana Galizia for many years was a harsh critic of Maltas Labor party and government. More recently she had expanded her criticism to include the opposition Nationalist Party. Her slaying drew swift denunciations in the tiny EU nation. Daphne played a vitally important role in unearthing serious allegations of money laundering and corruption in Malta, including those involving senior figures in the Maltese government, said Sven Giegold, a Greens member in the European Parliament. Italian newsweekly LEspresso, which has also written about alleged corruption linked to Malta, said the reporters murder demonstrated that a well-documented expose is perceived as a danger by the powerful and by organized crime. European Parliament President Antonio Tajani in a tweet called the development a tragic example of a journalist who sacrificed her life to search for the truth. The victims of the ongoing Gardez attack, which was claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, include women, students and police. (Representational Image | AFP) Kabul: The death toll in an ongoing suicide and gun attack on a police training centre in a southeast Afghan city has risen to 32 with more than 200 wounded, a hospital official said Tuesday. The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood, said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province. A separate attack in a neighbouring province on Tuesday left 15 security forces dead and 12 wounded, as militants step up their offensives following a ratcheting up in US airstrikes in a war-weary country marking 16 years of conflict this month. The victims of the ongoing Gardez attack, which was claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, include women, students and police, officials told AFP. At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault, the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces is underway inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. Fighting has been going on for more than four hours. A local official said two car bombs went off near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing, Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistans militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The attack came hours after a US drone strike in Pakistans Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. Local officials told AFP that drones were still flying above Kurram after the attack, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. Ghazni attack The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. Militants also targeted security forces in Ghazni on Tuesday, some 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Gardez, officials there said. That attack, which has ended, followed the same pattern, with terrorists detonating an explosives-laden Humvee vehicle near a police headquarters and attackers storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governors spokesman, told AFP. Fifteen security forces were killed and 12 wounded, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman told AFP, adding dozens of Taliban also died. The latest attacks come as four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held Monday in Oman with the aim of ending the Talibans 16-year insurgency. The Punjab Home Department has also called for the extension of detention of Saeed and Saeed's four close aides. (Photo: AP) Lahore: Pakistan's Punjab government, on Tuesday sought the extension of detention of Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed under public safety law, two days after withdrawing its application to prolong his house arrest under the anti-terrorism law. Saeed, the Jamat-ud-Dawah chief who has been under house arrest since January, was presented before a three-member provincial judicial review board amid high security. The Punjab Judicial Review Board comprising Justice Yawar Ali, Justice Abdul Sami and Justice Alia Neelam heard arguments of a law officer of the Punjab Home Department for the extension of detention of Saeed and his four close aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain. Their detention period is scheduled to expire on October 24. Under the law, the government can detain a person for up to three months under different charges. The government can extend the detention only after the approval from the judicial review board. The Lahore police beefed up the security around the Lahore High Court building where Saeed and others were presented before the board. After hearing the law officer, the board issued notices to Advocate General Punjab, and the foreign and interior secretaries to appear before it on October 19 to explain why the government wants extension to Saeed's house arrest. The board, after hearing the law officer, issued notices to Advocate General Punjab. Last week, the Punjab Home Department had withdrawn its request from federal board to seek the extension to detention of Saeed and others under "anti-terrorism act". Explaining as to why the government withdrew its application seeking extension to detention of Saeed and others, the Punjab government said since it has extended the detention of Saeed and four others for October 24 under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance 1960, it does not require to have their house arrest extended under the anti- terrorism law. On January 31, Saeed and four others were detained by the Punjab government for 90 days under preventative detention under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997. However, the last two extensions were made on the 'public safety law'. The Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) has already been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014. The JuD chief carries a reward of USD 10 million announced by the US for his role in terror activities. Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani tonight targeted Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi after a media report claimed that absconding arms agent Sanjay Bhandari had "booked tickets" for his brother- in-law Robert Vadra. "Eagerly awaiting Rahul Ji's poetic explanation for #VadraTicketGate," Irani tweeted. The minister's tweet came after Times Now channel claimed that "the absconding arms dealer Bhandari (had) booked business-class tickets for Vadra in 2012." Vadra's reaction to the report was not available. Times Now said Vadra and his lawyers had earlier denied having any links with the absconding arms dealer. Irani's swipe at Gandhi, asking for his "poetic explanation", came two days after the Congress leader targeted the government over the Global Hunger Index by citing a poem in a tweet. Irani had hit back then in a similar fashion. Gandhi had tweeted a news report on the Global Hunger Index along with a Hindi couplet by poet Dushyant Kumar which read: "bhookh hai to sabrkar, roti nahi to kya hua, aajkaldillimein hai zer-e-behas yeh mudda (if you are hungry, be patient, what if bread is not available, the issue is being discussed in Delhi." Hitting back, Irani had tweeted: "Ae satta ki bhookh, sabrkar, aankdesathnahi to kya, khudgarzon ko jamakar, mulk ki badnami ka shortohmacha hi lenge (hey hunger for power, be patient, what if you don't have the numbers, you can collect selfish people, noise can be made to malign the country)." In another tweet, the Information and Broadcasting Minister had said, "Not surprising that in his keenness to run down Hon PM, Rahul Gandhi maligns the Nation." Along with this tweet, Irani posted a statement by Health Minister J P Nadda which read: "Facts vs Fiction on Global Hunger Index to enlighten people who are keen to run down our country by twisting facts." BJP corporator N R Ramesh on Monday filed a complaint with the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) against Chief Minister Siddramaiah in the Bhoopasandra denotification case. The BJP leader alleged that on the instructions of the chief minister, Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) misled the courts and illegally denotified six acres and 26 guntas of land in Bhoopsandra (RMV II Stage). Last week, BJP MLC and former minister B J Puttaswamy had alleged that the lands denotified 6.26 acres in survey numbers 20 and 21 in at Bhoopasandra in Bengaluru north taluk benefited one Keerthi Raj Shetty, a close confidant of Siddramaiah. The complaint filed with the ACB stated that BDA had acquired the land in 1978 to form RMV II Stage layout. The owner of the portion of a land, one Syed Bashid, had challenged the acquisition and both the High Court of Karnataka and the Supreme Court upheld the notifications. Further, the BDA had even carved out sites on the land and allotted it to 42 people. It was in 2016 that the owner of another portion of the land, Jayalakshmi moved the high court, challenging acquisition of the land. The single judge bench of the high court passed an order for denoitification in respect to the entire 6.26 acres of land. The complaint stated that the BDA concealed the previous orders passed by the high court and the Supreme Court. Though the BDA filed an appeal challenging the single judge bench order in 2016, it was subsequently withdrawn. The complaint stated that it was on the instructions of the chief minister that the BDA withdrew its appeal. An order of denotification was then passed in respect of the entire 6.26 acres of land. The complaint stated that the denotification order under these circumstances resulted in a loss of Rs 300 crore to the state exchequer besides injustice to the land allottees. "We have filed the complaint with all supporting documents. I am ready to hang if it is proved that the allegations are false. Let the chief minister resign if the documents are speaking the truth,'' Puttaswamy said after filing the complaint. The dictionary is intended to keep an up-to-date register of the languages, as well as to make a usable resources for vocational training schools, ethnic language and literature education, and for web searches and future publications, an organizing committee representative said. The Ministry of Education has shown interest in our dictionary and asked us how they can assist us. The government doesnt have any experts on ethnic affairs so they have started relying on us more. This book will become a historic volume that will last for a long time, said Naw Pann Thinzar Myo, Kayin (Karen) Ethnic Affairs Minister for Yangon Region and chairperson of the dictionarys organising committee. The committee includes a representative from the Karen Literature and Culture Committees of Ayeyarwady, Bago, Tanintharyi, and Yangon regions and Mon State, while the chief ministers of Ayeyarwady Region and Kayin State and the Ethnic Affairs Ministers of Ayeyarwady, Bago, and Tanintharyi regions and Mon State are also serving as patrons. The committee also includes two representatives eacg from the Sgaw Karen and Pwo Karen Baptist Convention, a representative from the Kayin States Eastern Pwo, as well as Kayin State (Eastern Pwo) representatives, donors and linguistic experts. Our literature and culture will be more developed and successful if the Kayin [Karen] people from states and regions work together, said Gar Moe Myat Myat Thu, Ayeyarwady Region's Kayin Ethnic Affairs Minister. The Yangon Region government has donated K5 million to support the committees efforts. Other notable donations included K4 million from Kayin businessman Saw Palar Tu and three million kyat from Kayin State Border Guard Force commander Col Saw Chit Thu. Smaller donations have also been collected from the Kayin business community in Yangon. Although religious organisations have compiled English-Sgaw Kayin dictionaries and Western Pwo Kayin dictionaries in the past, the endeavor marks the first time a joint dictionary for English, Myanmar, Sgaw Kayin, Western Pwo Kayin, and Easter Pwo Kayin languages is being developed. The project is expected to take two years, the organising committee said. The High Court of Karnataka on Monday directed the state government not to approve the Bangalore Development Authority's Revised Master Plan (RMP) 2031 without the consent of the court. According to the petitioner Namma Bengaluru Foundation (NBF) and Citizens Action Forum, the Bangalore Metropolitan Planning Committee (BMPC) is the constitutional body instituted for creating and implementing the master plans. However, the BDA is formulating the master plans and sending them to the state government for approval bypassing the approval of the BMPC. The divisional bench of acting chief justice H G Ramesh and P S Dinesh Kumar, while hearing a PIL filed by the NBF, directed the BDA to follow the process as mandated in the constitution. The BMPC has been constituted to be the nodal authority for all the development and planning in Bangalore metropolitan area. However, the BDA is undertaking the planning and development of areas and submitting it to the state government bypassing the BMPC. The state government has also not involved the BMPC in the decision making. The next hearing of the petition will be on October 31. A single-storey building situated near a rajakaluve (large stormwater drain) in Yeshwantpur was tilting dangerously, leaving its occupants scared on Monday night. The building, situated in B Krishnamurthy Nagar near LN Colony, has been demolished by the Palike authorities after evacuating its occupants. Residents in the neighbouring buildings were also anxious that the tilting structure may come down anytime, endangering their buildings. There was one family of four residing on the first floor. The ground floor had a flour mill and a ration shop. Owner of the building Chikkaramanna had rented out the building to one Chinnaswamy and his family. Alert resident Chinnaswamys daughter Priyanka had gone to a photocopy shop and was returning home at around 9.30 pm when she heard a rattling sound from the building. She alerted her family members, who ran down to the ground for safety. The family and the neighbours kept gazing at the building in the fear that it would come crashing down. The police and the Fire and Emergency services then arrived at the spot. They cleared the building so that the civic authorities can demolish it. Officials feel that the recent heavy rains increased the water flow in the rajakaluve, which in turn weakened the foundation of the building, causing it to tilt. Ward number 37 corporator GK Venkatesh said the building was 40 years old and the foundation was not laid using pillars. It was laid using red soil and granite stones, he said. The task force was called in and the building was demolished brick by brick, without causing any harm to nearby structures, Venkatesh said. Inmates of the central prison in Parappana Agrahara here staged a protest inside the jail on Tuesday. They are demanding parole facility, food from outside and allowing visitations from their family. Several inmates refused to have breakfast, gathered at the ground and refused to take up work that they are assigned. ADGP (Prisons) N S Megharikh and jail superintendent Somashekhar visited the prison and spoke to the agitating inmates. After taking over, Megharikh imposed several restrictions following allegations of irregularities and favouritism to high-profile inmates. Daphne Caruana Galizia, a prominent Maltese journalist and blogger who made repeated and detailed corruption allegations against Prime Minister Joseph Muscat's inner circle, was killed by a car bomb on Monday. Muscat condemned the killing as a "barbaric" act and ordered security services to devote maximum resources to bringing those responsible to justice. "What happened today is unacceptable on various levels. Today is a black day for our democracy and our freedom of speech," he told reporters. Daphne, 53, died mid-afternoon, close to her home in Bidnija in the north of the island. The force of the blast reduced her car to pieces and catapulted the journalist's body into a nearby field, witnesses said. She leaves a husband and three sons. Thousands of people, holding candles and waving placards, poured into the streets in the island's northeast resort town Sliema for a candlelight vigil to pay tribute to the reporter. People left candles, flowers and messages of support at makeshift shrines in the street. "When the people fear their government there is tyranny when the government fears the people there is LIBERTY," read one sign left on the pavement with flowers and candles. A local television station reported that Daphne had filed a police complaint earlier this month about threats she had received. "I will not rest until justice is done," said Muscat. "Everyone knows Ms Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way," he added. In the final entry on her blog, posted within an hour of her death, Daphne reiterated an allegation that Muscat's chief of staff, Keith Schembri, was a "crook" who used his government influence to enrich himself. "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate," she signed off. Daphne's death comes four months after Muscat's Labour Party won a resounding victory in a general election he called early as a result of scandals to which her allegations were central. Panama Papers Muscat, premier since 2013, went to the polls a year early after his wife, Michelle, was accused of being the beneficial owner of a secret Panama bank account. Daphne had alleged the account was used to stash kickbacks from Azerbaijan's ruling family linked to an Azeri bank gaining a licence to operate in Malta. Muscat called the claims the "biggest lie in Maltese political history," asked a magistrate to investigate and has vowed to quit if any link is established between him and hidden offshore accounts. The premier has not applied that principle to two of his closest allies. Chief of staff Schembri and government minister Konrad Mizzi were both revealed last year to be owners of undeclared shell companies established through Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. Muscat has stood by both of them. Former Chief Election Commissioner T S Krishnamurthy today favoured doing away with voter ID card and said Aadhaar can be the sole identity proof for voting. At present, the Election Commission allows a number of documents, including passport, as identity proof in the absence of voter ID card. "Today, we are having too many cards leading to so many complications. Don't introduce too many complications in the system. Time has come we should think of only one card, whatever be the card," Krishnamurthy said. "ID proof may be Aadhaar card when you are using it for all other purposes. It can be used for election also," he said. "Aadhaar itself can be made as an election ID card. Why do you want to have election ID card as well as Aadhaar? If all voters are covered by Aadhaar, then you should eliminate voter ID card and make Aadhaar the only ID for electoral purposes," Krishnamurthy told PTI. He said till the entire country is covered by Aadhaar, both the cards should be allowed as ID proof for voting. "You can set a particular cut-off date, may be 2019 or 2020 or whatever, everybody should have Aadhaar card (for voting)", the former CEC said. He also said there was no need for the Election Commission to "delink" Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat Assembly polls, and termed it an "avoidable controversy". Krishnamurthy argued that Himachal Pradesh election could have been postponed by a few days to club it with that in Gujarat. "I don't know why they should be delinked because it was an avoidable controversy, I thought. There was no need to delink them," the former CEC said. "When the convention (holding elections to Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat simultaneously) has been so, it could have been easily followed, or even if there was difficulty, the Himachal elections could have been postponed by four or five days," he said. The EC had on October 12 announced that the Assembly elections in Himachal Pradesh would be held in a single phase on November 9 and the results would be declared on December 18. The poll panel did not announce the dates for Assembly elections in Gujarat, but Chief Election Commissioner A K Joti had said that the elections will be held before December 18. On BJP MP Varun Gandhi reportedly terming the poll panel a "toothless tiger", Krishnamurthy said, "There is no power (with the poll panel) to deregister (derecognise parties), but whether it makes it (EC) toothless animal, I don't know." Gandhi had reportedly said the Election Commission was a "toothless tiger" as it had never derecognised any political party for not submitting poll expenditure details within the stipulated time. "Yes, there is no power (to derecognise parties), and that power should be available. Law can be amended to say that if you (EC) have power to register, you can deregister a party under certain circumstances," Krishnamurthy added. Announcing that he would be visiting Agra next week to review tourism schemes, the chief minister said the Taj Mahal was a historical monument regardless of the emperor who had built it. Adityanath's comments come a day after his colleague, BJP MLA Sangeet Som, questioned the Taj Mahal's place in India's heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. "It is immaterial as to who and how the Taj Mahal was built... It was made by the sweat and blood of Bharat Mata's sons," the chief minister said in Gorakhpur. "It is famous the world over for its architecture... it is a historical monument and its protection and further development for tourism is the responsibility of the government," he added. Announcing that he would visit Agra on October 26 and there was a Rs 370 crore work plan for the city, Adityanath said it was the duty of the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure that proper security and facilities were extended to tourists. "Our government is working for tourism development for the Kalinjer Fort (in Banda) and working for the Rani Laxmibai's Fort in Jhansi as well as the Chunar Fort (in Mirzapur) and has prepared schemes for their development," he said. In Lucknow, Principal Secretary (Information) Awanish Awasthi told mediapersons that the chief minister would also visit the Agra Fort and review other schemes as well for the city. Som's comments on the Taj Mahal had come after the Adityanath government reportedly omitted the 17th century monument from an official booklet on tourist destinations. "Many people are pained to see that the Taj Mahal was removed from the list of places (tourist destinations). What type of history?" he had asked during a public meeting in Meerut on Monday. His comments prompted an angry response from All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen leader and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi who asked if the government would tell tourists not to visit the monument. The BJP stepped into the row with party spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao describing Muslim rule in India as "barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance" while asserting that its members could hold any opinion they want on specific monuments. Following reports about the Taj Mahal being left out of the booklet, the state government had issued a press release stating, "Tourism projects worth Rs 370 crore are proposed, under which schemes worth Rs 156 crore for development of parks and various facilities are meant for the Taj Mahal and its surrounding areas in Agra." The Taj Mahal was made by the blood and sweat of "Bharat Mata's sons" and its protection was the responsibility of the Uttar Pradesh government, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said today. We know that agriculture is the engine of Myanmars future, he said. The agriculture, fisheries and livestock sectors account for about 30% of gross domestic product (GDP), and about 70% of the population depends on them for their livelihoods, Coppel highlighted. Over the past five years, the multidisciplinary program MyFarm has been running in Myanmar. In Nay Pyi Taw teams from the five different projects presented their work and results for improving research and development of the countrys fisheries, the diversification and intensification of rice-based systems in lower Myanmar or increasing productivity of legume-based farming systems in the central dry zone. Among other things they displayed how more than 7000 households are now using small-scale aquaculture technologies and that smallholders experienced an increase of up to 10% in production and income. Furthermore, 120 Village Seed Banks were established to produce and deliver over 40 tonnes of pulse seed in 57 township areas. Australia, through the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, will continue its support for the agriculture, fisheries and livestock sectors through further investment and new research collaborations throughout 2017. For example, market analyses are planned so that the most impoverished food producers should get a better connection to the market and immigrate into the food chain of production. Still, poverty is in Myanmar is twice as high in rural than in urban areas. Farmers often do not generate sufficient income from their products to support the basic needs of their children, including good nutrition, decent shelter and quality education, ambassador Coppel said. Because 85% of Myanmars poor people live in rural communities, the potential pro-growth in the agriculture, fisheries and livestock sectors is substantial for Myanmar, he clarified. Besides different Australian Universities, the Yezin Agricultural University (YAU) in Myanmar has been involved in the projects of MyFarm. The YAU is Myanmars only university in agriculture. A challenge as its rector Myo Kywe told Mizzima is, We have to expand in the future. Take for example the growing of coffee in the northern part of Myanmar. We should have a university nearby to do the research work. Regarding the program MyFarm, he said: The research into extension systems has highlighted how we can deliver the promise of technical research more effectively to farmers. After five years the program MyFarm comes to close this year. Its geographic focus has been the Ayeyarwady Delta and the Central Dry Zone. Under the new strategy, Myanmar and Australia are considering expanding to a third area. Likely Shan state, because of its poverty, low productivity and lack of access to markets coincide. The Congress on Tuesday strongly defended its president Sonia Gandhis son-in-law Robert Vadra, while upping the ante against BJP national president Amit Shahs son Jay Shah, whose business reportedly saw a massive revenue growth after the BJP came to power. Fresh allegations have emerged against Vadra following a TV news report that absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari booked business-class tickets for Vadra in 2012. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in power for 41 months. The BJP is in power in Haryana and Rajasthan as well, the states where Vadra is facing allegations. In these 41 months of witch-hunting, they (BJP) have not been able to point out any violation or wrongdoing on Vadras part, senior Congress leader and the partys media incharge Randeep Singh Surjewala told reporters here. Surjewala demanded that a commission of inquiry comprising two sitting Supreme Court judges be instituted to look into Jay Shahs business dealings. How did the business of Temple Enterprise Private Limited, a company owned by Amit Shahs wife, daughter-in-law and son Jay Shah, increase 16,000 times in one year? What is the magic wand by which a company, earning a surplus of a mere Rs 18.8 lakh between 2004 and 2014 and making loss in 2012-13 and 2013-14, increases its turnover within a year of BJP coming to power, was one of the 10 questions Surjewala posed. This is a moment of reckoning for Modi and a litmus test for his credibility, neutrality and integrity. Modi and BJP must ask Amit Shah to resign pending the completion of a fair probe that even the RSS, the partys parent organisation, has sought, Surjewala said. Two separate suicide and gun attacks on government forces in Afghanistan left nearly 50 dead and more than 200 wounded, officials said today, the latest devastating assault on beleaguered security forces. The Taliban claimed the most deadly of the two assaults, a coordinated attack on police in the southeast Afghan city of Gardez that left hospital officials calling for blood donations and desperate scenes as relatives queued for news of their loved ones after the hours-long gun battle. A separate ambush blamed on the Taliban in the neighbouring province of Ghazni on Tuesday killed 15 security officials with 12 wounded on a bloody day for government forces. The assaults are a fresh blow as militants step up their offensives across Afghanistan, with security forces already beset by corruption, desertions and suffering shocking casualties over the past year. "The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood," said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez. Doctors and nurses rushed to attend to the wounded women, children and police filling the corridors where some bodies also lay. Outside, university students formed a queue to donate blood, an AFP photographer said. The attack, claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, began when two suicide car bombs blew up near the training centre, which is close to the Paktia police headquarters, making way for the gunmen to start their assault, the interior ministry and local police said. "Most of the victims are civilians who had come to the police headquarters to get their passports and national IDs," according to a statement from the Paktia governor's office. A student at a nearby university who was in class at the time of the attack said he heard "a big boom" which caused the building to shake and windows shatter. "As we were trying to find our way (out of the building) I heard a second blast and then the dust and dirt covered us in the class. Several of my classmates were wounded by broken glass," Noor Ahmad told AFP. The battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces lasted around five hours before it ended with all five militants killed, officials said. Photos posted on Twitter showed two large plumes of smoke rising above the city. The second attack, in Ghazni some 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Gardez, involved insurgents detonating an explosives-laden Humvee vehicle near a police headquarters and attackers storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governor's spokesman, told AFP. "Dozens of Taliban" were killed in the attack, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman said. The attacks are the latest in a series of assaults by militants targeting Afghan security installations, including one on a military hospital in Kabul in March which may have killed up to 100 people, and a devastating attack on a base in Mazar-i-Sharif which left 144 people dead. They came one day after four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. Paktia province borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. Tuesday's attack in Gardez came hours after a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. Local officials told AFP that drones were still flying above Kurram after the attack, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. The son of Malta's best-known investigative journalist said on Tuesday his mother was killed by a car bomb because of her work exposing political corruption. Daphne Caruana Galizia, who wrote about graft across Malta's political divides on her blog, was murdered on Monday soon after she left her home in the north of the island. "My mother was assassinated because she stood between the rule of law and those who sought to violate it, like many strong journalists," Matthew Caruana Galizia said on Facebook. "She was also targeted because she was the only person doing so," he added. He described rushing to the scene after hearing the news, only to find the burning car and her remains. The explosion, which blasted the car off the road into a field near the village of Bidnija, stunned the small Mediterranean island. Authorities said it was the first murder of a journalist there. Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and opposition leader Adrian Delia - who had both been criticised on her blog - both condemned the killing. Around 3,000 people held a silent, candle-lit vigil on Monday night in Sliema, just outside the capital Valletta. "Today, this is undoubtedly a dark and sad, sad, sad, sad day for Malta," said family friend Luke Frendo. "I think Daphne was not only a journalist and an absolutely fearless human being but a fourth pillar of our democracy," Frendo told Reuters Television. Maltese authorities were awaiting the arrival of Dutch forensic experts and American FBI agents on Tuesday to help the investigations. A tent was erected over her burnt-out car and sheets placed over her remains. "Everyone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way," said Prime Minister Muscat, who had been suing her over some of her allegations. Opposition leader Adrian Delia called her killing an attack on democracy and freedom of expression and demanded an independent inquiry. "We will not accept an investigation by the Commissioner of Police, the Army commander or the duty magistrate, all of whom were criticised by Caruana Galizia," he said on Monday. Half an hour before the explosion tore into her car, Galizia wrote on her blog: "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate." Monuments such as the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Parliament House and the Red Fort should be demolished as they too are "symbols of slavery" just as the Taj Mahal, Samajwadi Party general secretary Azam Khan has said. The SP MLA's remarks last night came in response to BJP MLA Sangeet Som's comments questioning the Taj Mahal's place in India's heritage. Som had said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. "I have always held the view that all symbols of slavery should be erased. Why only Taj Mahal? Why not Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutub Minar and Red Fort? These are all symbols of slavery," Khan told the media. The former UP minister said that if the BJP and Som are adamant about not accepting that the Taj Mahal is a legacy of India, then the BJP MLA along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should come forward to demolish the monument. He also lashed out at BJP leaders for not following up on their words with actions. An Army jawan was beaten up by a mob today in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara town on suspicion of being a braid chopper. The injured jawan was rescued by Army personnel and policemen, officials said. He was taken to a military hospital for treatment. The jawan, who could not be identified, was beaten by people on the allegation of being a braid chopper, they said. A video of the incident was being widely circulated on social networking sites. Army officials did not respond to calls seeking an official version of the incident. Protests also broke out in several parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, against the unabated braid chopping attacks with at least half a dozen such alleged incidents reported in the past 24 hours. As a member of one of Myanmars minority ethnic groups, I bring a unique perspective to a narrative otherwise dominated by Burman voices. I am ethnically Mon and was raised in Mon State. What I offer here are my own observation based on what I consider an objective assessment of the human conflict and humanitarian crisis that has befallen the country. I argue that this clash of racial and cultural values can only be addressed thorough personal liberty, security and human dignity for all people, regardless of race and gender. At issue is racial discrimination, which many observers have asserted has progressed to the point of ethnic cleansing. Western media have reported that organizations like the United Nations have called the situation in Rakhine a textbook example of ethnic cleansing, in violation of international norms of human rights. Amnesty International has called the situation genocide, a charge that the Myanmar government vehemently denies. The international media have been consistent in covering the enormous outflow of refugees into Bangladesh. The cover story on the October 2 edition of TIME Magazine entitled Myanmars Shame by Elizabeth Dias is one such example, featuring a cover picture of refugees desperately crossing the border. The Myanmar local press, especially Online TV, Radio and Social media has focused much more on the victims of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), especially those of other minority ethnic groups. A clash of racial identity and values: The situation has been made even more murky by conflicting accounts in local, national and international media. Even the terminology is different. International media refer to the Muslim population as Rohingya (as do those people), while the Tatmadaw and the Myanmar press call them Bengali or Muslims in Rhakine state. What is abundantly clear, though, is that the loss of lives, displacement of communities and destruction of property is enormous and beyond the scope of local or national humanitarian capabilities. I believe that Myanmars political writers and reporters have a responsibility to further investigation both ARSA and the Tatmadaw (Myanmar military) if justice and security is to be established for people of all races and religions. That half a million people were displaced in one week is not a question of political or racial values, but basic human security and welfare. Not only in Rhakine but throughout the country, Myanmar is a long way from meeting the standards laid out under the International Bill of Human Rights. The rights and freedoms that Myanmars peoples demand will not be realized unless a concerted effort is made to address the economic, social and cultural realities of Myanmars diverse communities. In fact, the question of social and cultural rights has never been addressed by the political establishment, but has been used instead as a wedge to maintain power. Historical context: The current crisis erupted when, on August 25, ARSA members attacked local police stations in the Maungdaw district of Rhakine state, killing at least eleven people. The news shocked the nation and the world. It is clear that the Tatmadaw and the NLD government failed to act on intelligence that it allegedly had about the attack. Government security force responded with a heavy hand and killed more than three hundred people it claimed were ARSA militants. However the Tatmadaw responded with only an overwhelming military action, at the expense of dealing with the underlying communal tensions and humanitarian crisis. Many Burman people unconditionally applauded the action taken by the Tatmadaw and police to defend local people but were seemingly indifferent to the widespread allegations of abuse. The declaration of a security zone by the Tatmadaw denied reporters access to the crisis area and reduced much of the reporting from inside Myanmar to rumors. Cyclical violence has been a part of Myanmar and Rhakine society for over two hundred years. The Arakan (Rakhine) Mrohaung dynasty, which would be the last, was destroyed by royal Burmese soldiers in 1785. Not long after, the British invaded and after the first Anglo-Burmese war from 1824 to 1826, occupied Rhakine. Following the collapse of the Mrohaung dynasty, many Arakan people fled to India and into the Burmese heartland, but many other immigrants, especially from India, arrived to work in agricultural labor. The movement of peoples and the stoking of tensions between them was an integral part of the British colonial model, then operated by the East India Company (EIC). The EIC had vast commercial interest in colonial Burma and was happy to exploit local tensions for profit. This clash of racial and cultural identity with political values among Myanmars races, major and minor, has been present since before independence. But the years of military rule between 1962 and 2010 only served to inflame tensions. For a long time, assimilation and Burmanization were the vigorously pursued policies of the Burman-dominated military regimes, not just in Rhakine, but throughout the country. For example, to be registered or enrolled in a hospital or school, children must have Burmese names. The government also tried to destroy ethnic languages by preventing their use in schools. Addressing racial harmony: With the advent of a semi-democratic government in Myanmar, we are in a critical moment. While many hoped that democracy would bring freedom and development for the country, those goals seem challenged by the communal acrimony affecting Myanmars peoples, indigenous and immigrant alike (especially in Chin, Rhakine and Shan States). Social security, personal safety and human welfare must be placed ahead of political and racial identity in any society for people to live without fear regardless of race, religion and ethnicity. The military-dominated social, cultural and political establishment must be reexamined through the lenses of social justice, personal liberty and universal application of the rule of law. A participatory and responsive peace should be the central agenda of the NLD government and ethnic leaders, even in spite of the agenda established by the military-dictated 2008 constitution. Stakeholders to the peace process must widen its scope to include racial and communal tensions that otherwise only see an outlet in violence. The fifty million people of Myanmar share the same water, land, climate and environment, so we all need to share the common burden of responsibility for our own cultural and national heritage. The only way that humans can co-exist in peace, is for all minority cultures to be protected and celebrated, and all people given real avenues for political participation. That is the only way for a nation of diverse races, religions and cultural practices to exist without discrimination based on race, gender and faith. Human rights is a reasonable framework for the world, but it can sometimes ignore the complexities of human society. Where we must be clear though, is in rejecting racial violence anywhere and towards anyone on earth. It is a moral and political responsibility of everyone in power and privilege. Myanmars history is filled with ugly chapters. Let us not let the same be our future. Andhra Pradesh, one of India's biggest cotton-growing states has formed a panel to investigate how 15 percent of the state's cotton acreage has been planted with a non-approved genetically modified strain developed by Monsanto and may bring criminal charges. The three-member panel will investigate the usage of Monsanto's Bollgard II Roundup Ready Flex (RRF) in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and alert the federal government about any violation of the country's environmental protection laws, according to a copy of the state government order dated Oct. 17 and reviewed by Reuters. The order on Tuesday followed a similar order on Oct. 5 that was to inspect fields growing Bollgard II but that order was withdrawn on Friday with no explanation. The new committee, composed of agricultural experts, has been asked to submit a report within 15 days, according to the order. The new directive asks the "investigating committee to look into the illegalities and risks of such seed sales and cultivation." The committee may also bring criminal charges under India's 1989 Environment Protection Act, the order said. India's federal government has not commented on the issue since Andhra Pradesh handed down the Oct. 5 order. Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan did not respond to a request seeking comment on the new order sent on Tuesday. A spokesman for Monsanto India referred to its earlier statement following the Oct. 5 order. In that statement, the company said the matter was of "grave concern" and that seed companies illegally attempted to "incorporate unauthorised and unapproved herbicide-tolerant technologies into their seeds" for profit. Monsanto last year withdrew its application seeking approval for Bollgard II RRF following a dispute with the government that cut the royalty the company received for licensing out the technology to local seed firms. The withdrawal was seen as a major escalation in a long-running dispute between the Indian government and Monsanto, which is also locked in a legal battle with some local seed companies over intellectual property rights. The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday ordered an interim stay on the Centres plans to withdraw central paramilitary forces (CPFs) from trouble-torn Darjeeling till October 27. The West Bengal government had moved the high court on Tuesday, seeking a stay on the central notification of withdrawing CPF companies. On October 15, the Union home ministry had informed the West Bengal government that it intended to withdraw 10 of the 15 companies of paramilitary forces from the hills. The figure was later revised to seven after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee vehemently opposed the move and called up Home Minister Rajnath Singh. When the bench of Justice Harish Tandon and Justice Debanshu Basak asked for the reasons behind withdrawal of the troops from the state, the Centres legal team, headed by Vipul Kundalia, said the forces were needed for maintaining security in the states where Assembly elections will be held soon. Advocate General Kishore Dutta, representing West Bengal, argued that at the moment only one Assembly election in Himachal Pradesh is due as per the Election Commissions announcement. The court then told the Centre that it should have a strong rationale and justify the grounds for withdrawal. It also said that there must be good reasons for deployment and withdrawal of central forces and ordered an interim stay on the withdrawal till October 27. The high court on July 14 had directed the Centre to provide four additional companies of CPFs within 48 hours in Darjeeling to quell the violence in the hills. The troops were in addition to the 11 companies of CPFs already deployed in Darjeeling. The court had also directed the state government to provide additional forces from its own resources in order to bring back normalcy in the hills, where an indefinite shutdown demanding a separate state of Gorkhaland is going on. A fuming Mamata Banerjee, after the third round of talks between the Bengal government and hill parties, said on Monday, "We were shocked to learn about the sudden withdrawal of CPFs from Darjeeling. It came at a time when peace was gradually being restored in the area. This withdrawal is unfortunate and unilateral. It also defies all norms, practices and spirit of the federal structure. It is the BJPs decision and the Centres conspiracy against the state and people of Darjeeling." She had also shot strongly worded protest letters to the prime minister and the Union home minister to reconsider the withdrawal of CPFs from Darjeeling hills. Jharkhand CM ordered an investigation Tuesday into whether the death of a young girl was caused by a government error that saw her family denied food rations. The girl's mother and social welfare activists said the 11-year-old from Jharkhand state died of starvation last month after officials refused to give the family food because their personal documentation was not in order. More than 360 million Indians -- nearly one-third of its 1.25 billion people -- live below the poverty line and are entitled to access food rations under government schemes. Jharkhand chief minister Raghubar Das said he was deeply pained by the girl's death and ordered an immediate enquiry into the incident. "Strict action will be taken if anyone is found guilty," he posted on social media, as public outrage grew over the tragedy. The family held a ration card for low-income families and a unique ID connected to a government biometric programme, according to the girl's mother Koyli Devi. But she said officials insisted the two IDs needed to be linked before she could receive the handouts, citing a government order to that effect. Activists have accused the government officials of breaching a Supreme Court ruling that all low-income Indians were entitled to rations with or without the government biometric "Aadhaar" card. "The government is trying to shift blame, but the fact is the family was forced to eat leaves as they had no food at all for days," said Balram, a local activist who goes by one name. "The autopsy (done on the girl) also shows she died of starvation. The mother is severely malnourished herself and is hospitalised," he told AFP. Devi, the girl's illiterate mother, said nobody in her family had eaten for days and the young girl simply could not go on. "She used to get a free midday meal in school, but since it was also closed for (the Durga Puja) festival, she missed out on that too," Devi told local broadcaster NDTV. Launched in 2009, the Aadhaar programme aimed to provide identity cards to millions of poor people and enable them to access benefits directly without intermediaries taking an unlawful cut. But opponents said the government's push to make the card compulsory threatens to violate citizens' right to privacy and the scheme has been challenged in India's highest court. In an apparent snub to BJP legislator Sangeet Som, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that "nations cannot develop if they dont take pride in their history and heritage". The prime minister was speaking at the inauguration of the All India Institute of Ayurveda here. On Monday, Som said the Taj Mahal was built by "traitors" and was a "blot" on Indian culture. The party has since distanced itself from the remarks. "Who built the Taj Mahal is not important...what is important is that it has the sweat and blood of Indian labourers," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath told reporters in Kushinagar district. Adityanath, who had earlier said that Taj Mahal could not be termed as India's "cultural heritage", made a u-turn following criticism, and said that he would be visiting the monument during his visit to Agra on October 26. He said that Taj Mahal attracted tourists from all over the world and that it was the responsibility of the government to maintain this symbol of heritage. A source said that Adityanath has sought an explanation from Som. The BJP leadership is wary of leaders like Som and their self-aggrandising statements since they have the potential of doing more harm to the party's interest in the run-up to the next round of elections to states such as Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat. The Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry have launched an online campaign to spread a message that a woman can move mountains for another woman. The online campaign, #IamThatWoman, is an effort to end gender bias in women against women, the ministry said on Tuesday. "When a woman has the support of her womanhood, she can be unstoppable. Join the '#IamThatWoman' campaign and spread the message that a woman can move mountains for another woman, WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi said in a statement. Through this campaign, the Ministry aims at shedding light on the enormous contributions made by women for women, she said. A mother-in-law can be her daughter-in-law's best companion. It is the time we did away with the 'in-law' in 'daughter-in-law'. A woman manager can easily empathise with her female juniors and help her climb the ladder of success. Likewise, a landlady's affection towards a female tenant makes a world of difference in making the young girl feel at home, away from home, she added. The union minister also appealed to the people to shun stereotypes associated with the women harming other women. The online campaign will be carried out through various social media platforms. Twitter and Facebook users have been encouraged to tag and share stories of women helping women with a photograph and post online with the hashtag #IamThatWoman, the Ministry said. The Madras High Court has declined to entertain a plea by a former AIADMK minister for a direction to police to permit him to stage a protest on October 23 in front of the Vellore Collectorate seeking CBI probe into the death of former chief minister Jayalalithaa. Justice M S Ramesh in a recent order said the state government had already set up an inquiry commission to probe the death. The judge also pointed out that government had appointed retired high court judge Justice A Arumugasamy to head the inquiry panel and declined to entertain the plea by former minister Pandurangan, who claimed that he was a supporter of the 'Deepa' faction in the party. Alleging that there were several doubts with regard to the death of Jayalalithaa, the petitioner submitted that he would like to stage a protest on behalf of his party before the Vellore Collectorate on October 23. He had given a representation to police earlier in this regard but permission was declined citing the grievance day meeting at the Collectorate that day. The petitioner sought a direction to police to permit him to stage the protest in front of the Collectorate that day. Jayalalithaa died on December 5 last year after 75 days of treatment at the corporate Apollo Hospitals here. The expulsion of fourteen girl students from the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI)for their refusal to vacate an old hostel and shift to a new accommodation triggered protests on the premiere institute's campus today. The students alleged that building a separate accommodation for girls was an act of moral policing. Refuting the allegations, SRFTI director Debamitra Mitra said the authorities had taken this decision to build a separate ladies hostel, upgrade curriculum and infrastructure at the institute after receiving an approval from the Union Information & Broadcasting Ministry in 2013. "Earlier, the boys and the girls had separate accommodation in the same block of an old hostel building. After receiving the I&B ministry's approval in 2013, we undertook the construction of a new building for the girls," she told reporters today. Mitra said the objective behind segregation was to ensure the safety of students. "We wanted to segregate the students by the end of this academic session. The decision was ratified in the general council meeting in last July. While the boys remained in the old hostel building, all but 14 girls shifted to the newly constructed girls' hostel," she said. The director also said that she won't tolerate discipline on the institute's campus. "We tried to reason it out with the girls. Last week, we gave them 48 hours to vacate the old hostel. We told them if they didn't listen, they would be debarred from pursuing academics. But they refused to relent," she said. The agitating students, including the 14 girls, however, alleged that the management was trying to curb their freedom. One of the students said on condition of anonymity that the authorities had even called in police to stop their protests. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh has junked plans to contest the November 9 elections from Theog and zeroed in on Arki assembly seat, a Congress stronghold that was wrested by the BJP. The change in seat was discussed at a meeting Singh held with the central leadership of the party to screen the list of probables for the elections. The filing of nominations for the assembly poll began on Monday and the last date for filing election papers is October 23. Singh, a member of the Himachal assembly from Shimla Rural, is leaving the seat for his son Vikramaditya, who is the president of the state unit of the Youth Congress. Earlier, the chief minister had announced plans to contest from Theog, a seat held by senior minister Vidya Stokes who has pulled out of electoral politics citing her advanced age. Stokes would turn 89 this December. The Arki assembly seat was represented by Congress leader Dharampal Thakur for three consecutive terms since 1993. Thakur contested as an independent in 2007 after Congress refused him a ticket but lost to Govind Ram Sharma of the BJP. Sharma won the seat in 2012 but with a reduced margin pushing Congress to the second position. Congress had won 36 seats in the 2012 assembly elections dislodging the BJP which could manage only 26 seats. Like the Congress, the BJP in Himachal is also is divided into factions which at times test the central leadership's skills to keep the house in order. a Only on Monday, Virbhadra forced the Congress' central leadership to roll back its decision to make arch-rival and party's state unit president Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu as the chairman of the campaign committee for the elections. Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi today took a dig at the BJP and the government over the latter extending legal help to party chief Amit Shah's son in a defamation case he has filed against a news website over a report about his financial dealings. "State legal help for Shah-Zada! Why this, why this Kolaveri Da?," he tweeted. He also tagged a news report entitled "Jay Amit Shah Attempts to Gag 'The Wire'", the news portal which had carried a report on a firm linked to the BJP chief's son seeing a huge jump in turnover after the saffron party came to power at the Centre in 2014. Jay Shah has filed a criminal defamation case in a metropolitan court in Ahmedabad against the portal, its journalists and the company that runs it. Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has been granted government permission to represent him in the case. Gandhi and the Congress have mounted an all-out attack against Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Jay Shah's financial dealings. They have repeatedly questioned the prime minister's "silence" on the issue. The Congress also demanded Shah's sacking and a probe by two Supreme Court judges into the entire episode. Fourteen people were detained today for bursting firecrackers outside the Supreme Court to protest the temporary ban on the sale of firecrackers by the apex court. The police were informed about the protest outside 'D' gate of the Supreme Court. The members, who claimed to be from an outfit Azad Hind Fauj, burst firecrackers outside the apex court. As many as 14 persons, including three women, were detained and taken to Tilak Marg police station, said a senior police officer. They were led by a man named Satpal Malhotra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who prefers to spend Deepavali with troops on the border, is likely to spend time with the army and Indian-Tibetan Border Police soldiers at the China border in Uttarakhand for this year's festival of lights. He may also visit the Kedarnath shrine on October 20, where he would inaugurate a protection wall that is to block any 2013-like floods from hitting the shrine, officials said. Last Deepavali, Modi had spent time with soldiers in a remote village near the China border in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. After assuming office in 2014, Modi had celebrated his first Deepavali with soldiers in Siachen. He also made it a point to be in Srinagar before his visit to Siachen to show solidarity with the flood victims in Jammu and Kashmir. In 2015, he had gone to meet soliders at the India-Pakistan border in Punjab. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will spend Deepavali with soldiers in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it was officially announced. It will be her maiden visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Command after taking charge last month. She will celebrate the festival with troops and interact with their families and also visit the operational area of the Command and Air Force Station Car Nicobar. Tillerson had a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New York last month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meeting. US President Donald Trump hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over dinner at the White House in June. After coming to the White House, Trump has committed himself to strengthening relationship with India. Last week, Jaitley met Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross during his visit to the US which concluded on Tuesday. He raised some key issues of concern to India, including the H-1B visas. Early this month, the first consignment of American crude oil reached India and the Indian companies plan to purchase crude oil worth USD 2 billion in the next one year. India has also placed a large defence order with the US worth billions of dollars. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will deliver his first major policy speech on India tomorrow, two days after Finance Minister Arun Jaitley ended his week-long visit to America during which he raised some of the key issues of concern with the American leadership.Tillerson will deliver his remarks on "Defining Our Relationship with India for the Next Century" at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a top American think tank, a statement said.His first India policy speech after becoming the top American diplomat early this year, Tillerson's remarks comes ahead of President Donald Trump Asia visit which will take him to Japan, S Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. The son of murdered Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Joseph Muscat of being complicit in his mother's death as the shockwaves from a grisly car bomb killing reverberated across Europe. Matthew Caruana Galizia, also an investigative journalist, described the pain of finding his mother's body blown to pieces and said he believed she had been assassinated for her whistleblowing activity. In an emotional post on his Facebook page, the son accused Muscat of filling his office with crooks and creating a culture of impunity that had turned Malta into a "mafia island". The centre-left premier denies any wrongdoing. But the case looks set to increase scrutiny of Malta by its partners in the European Union. Some members of the bloc have already expressed concern over the island's light-touch regulation of financial services and company registrations, and a controversial scheme that offers an EU passport to wealthy investors. The European Commission said it was horrified by what it termed a likely "targeted attack". "This is a horrible event, a major thing that needs to be investigated, and clarified," commission spokesman Margaritis Schinas said. Press freedom group Reporters without Borders described the murder as being like something out of Vladimir Putin's Russia and a rare incident of its kind for an EU state. Caruana Galizia, a veteran journalist who had been called a "one-woman Wikileaks", had lately used her widely read blog to make a series of detailed allegations of corruption in Muscat's inner circle, some based on the Panama Papers data leak. Her killing has triggered grief and anger on the island of 430,000 people, with thousands attending an overnight vigil that was followed Tuesday with a "Justice for Daphne" demonstration outside the main law courts in the fortress capital Valletta. "The state did not defend Daphne," said Andrew Borg Cardona, a prominent lawyer who works with the journalist's husband. Michael Briguglio, a former leader of the island's Greens party, said: "This is a political murder because it clearly has a political context and the state did not protect a journalist who was in danger." "I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it," Matthew Caruana wrote on Facebook. "They stared at me. 'I'm sorry, there is nothing we can do", one of them said. "I looked down and there were my mother's body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless." Muscat has described the killing as "barbaric" and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice with the help of FBI investigators. That pledge from the Labour Party prime minister was dismissed by the victim's son. "It is of little comfort for the prime minister of this country to say that he will 'not rest' until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a government that encouraged that same impunity," he wrote. "First he filled his office with crooks, then he filled the police with crooks and imbeciles, then he filled the courts with crooks and incompetents." The judge in charge of investigating the murder stepped aside from the case Tuesday following objections from the Caruana Galizia family. Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera had been accused of misconduct by the blogger and had threatened her with libel proceedings. Caruana Galizia's death came four months after Muscat won a landslide victory in elections that were called early after she accused his wife of taking kickbacks from Azerbaijan's ruling family and hiding the cash in a secret Panama bank account. The claims, which Muscat denies, were the latest in a string of scandals based on information leaked from the records of the Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. The so-called Panama Papers revealed how wealthy individuals around the world, including several lawmakers, used shell companies in tax havens to hide cash. Keith Schembri, Muscat's chief of staff, and Konrad Mizzi, a government minister, were both forced to admit having undeclared accounts. But the premier resisted pressure to dismiss them, insisting they had done nothing illegal. Indian Air Force plans to land several of its fighter and transport aircraft on the Agra-Lucknow express-way next week to train the pilots on emergency landing. Allhabad-based Central Air Command intends to land multiple aircraft including Mirage and Jaguar fighters on the highway on October 24, defence ministry sources said. This would be the third highway landing for IAF in the last two years. Previously Yamuna Express way, which connects Delhi to Agra, and Lucknow-Agra express way were used by the force for some of its combat jets to touch down. After discussions with several state governments, IAF identified 22 road segments where light weight fighters and transport aircraft can land. The first such landing took place on the Yamuna Express way in May 2015 when an IAF's Mirage test landed after taking off from Gwalior. Some of India's neighbours use highways as landing strips. While Myanmar has vast experience in this area, Pakistan Air Force used a piece of the highway between Lahore and Islamabad for its J-17 jet's touch down and take-off . During the 1971 Bangladesh war, PAF planned using the roads of Dhaka as temporary runway. But it could not implement the plans due to the presence of electrical wires on both sides of the road, obstructing the aircraft. A fighter aircraft's touch down and take off from a public road is a challenging task because of narrow margin of error for fighter jet operation and poor load bearing capacity of most of the Indian roads. But the IAF wants to prepare its pilots with more emergency landing skills because air bases are one of the first targets of an enemy attack in case of war. In such a situation, highways can be used as a back-up runway. Congress has been treading a cautious line on issues that can help BJP push the communal card at a time when it was making some headway in cornering the government on the slow down in the economy. Congress leaders have refrained from joining the issue with the BJP on the recent Supreme Court order to ban the sale of crackers in the national capital. The main opposition's response to the Taj Mahal controversy stoked by Uttar Pradesh BJP legislator Sangeet Som too was muted. West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi responded vociferously to Som's questioning of the Taj's place in India's heritage, the Congress merely asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make his stand clear on the baseless remarks. Congress leaders believe that issues such as the Taj Mahal controversy and attempts to fan a debate on the SC-directed ban on the sale of crackers were part of the BJP agenda to stoke a communal debate ahead of the Gujarat elections. We may respond to the SC order, but soon the narrative will go to why Hindu festivals are targeted. We do not want to get into these issues, a senior Congress leader said. He said the Congress had succeeded in highlighting the slowdown in the economy, the faulty implementation of the Goods and Services Tax and the ill-effects of demonetisation. Similarly, the Congress believed the attempt to manufacture a controversy surrounding Robert Vadra was aimed at diverting the focus from BJP President Amit Shah's son Jay Shah's businesses. Congress leaders argued that the BJP and the Modi government were unable to counter the questions they had flagged on increasing unemployment, the decline in growth, and was desperate to turn the debate communal. Communalism benefits them, it is their strong point, why should we help the BJP further their agenda, the Congress leader asked. For two successive years, there has been a dip in sale of crackers in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. As the border town, about 40 km from the city, supplies crackers at wholesale prices, customers from Bengaluru used to throng the town. In 2016, there was a decline in sales owing to tension between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over the Cauvery water sharing dispute. Fear of attacks by protesters had kept customers away. This year, sales were affected due to multiple reasons excessive rain in Bengaluru, GST and e-commerce, in addition to the growing awareness against bursting crackers. There are 37 shops right next to the Attibele toll plaza on the service road. Around six to eight youngsters rush to the cars and offer customers 80 to 90% discount. Despite this, the sales are low. Vijay Sagar Gowda, owner of MNR Firecracker Agency in Attibele, just 100 metres from the Hosur border said, People from Bengaluru come to Hosur to buy crackers since they are 20 to 30% cheaper here. For the past three years, the cracker business has slumped. Last year, due to the Cauvery issue, Karnataka-registered vehicles were stopped from entering Tamil Nadu and this time, due to heavy rain, there is a dip in sales. The sight of many empty cracker shops on the service road on the Tamil Nadu side with to let boards, speaks for the poor business. News / Local by Staff Reporter Read full interview below: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Transport bottled water umbrellas - between now and close of registration you will be exposed to the elements wifi hotspots at registration centres in order to incentivize youths to be at registration points; cost of putting up and maintaining a website, Twitter and Facebook so you reach more people Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: ilizwi263: Mantate: A young Bulawayo woman, Mantate Mlotshwa has taken to the street to encourage other young people in City of Kings and Queens to register to vote. In an interview with iLizwi263 Mantate said the campain in like a pyramid scheme, where one person brings five friends to register and then each of those five encourage five colleagues of their own.How old are you?I'm 22You are so young, so one would have to ask: Why does all that you do matter to you? You could be thinking of less stressful thingsFrom a young age I have always had peers looking up to me, or asking me for help in one way or another. Sometimes it's the older people always telling me I set an example for their children. This combination constantly reminds me that I have something that not every young person has, a gifting and access to opportunities which when I explore I am able to impact positively on those that look up to me. So it matters so much to me how I use the talents and skills I have to inspire more youths and to drive change.But why does it matter to you if Thabani or Tarisai register to vote?Thabani or Tarisai may not have had the opportunity to discover the value of their vote. It matters to me that they do, hence the drive to create a platform that allows Thabani or Tarisai to participate in voter registration.More than that, the youth form a significant percentage of eligible voters in Zimbabwe, the more youths that register to vote, the greater the possibility of compounding and quantifying the youth voice in elections.For the benefit of those who haven't heard about the initiative you are driving, please tell us about itThe #5x5Zim Campaign is a simple, but exciting initiative that we launched in Bulawayo three weeks ago. The power of 5 concept, upon which the campaign is built, was designed by a South African youth leader called Nangamso Kwinana, at the 2017 Generation Democracy Youth Leaders conference. It calls for every young person in Zimbabwe to commit to encouraging and ensuring that 5 other young people get registered to vote with their guidance. The 5 then also get 5 more youths each and it becomes a web of registered youths.Our second approach to the campaign has been identifying organizations, churches, universities and colleges that already have young people under them. We them partner these institutions and help them to mobilize and administrate the registration of their youths to ensure that all their youths register. The campaign aims to educate youths on the BVR, provide information on the process and centres as per phase as well as navigate discussion on the value of the youth voteIs your movement affiliated to any political party or candidate for 2018 polls?Fortunately no. The call to register to vote is an apolitical appeal and to present an initiative that gives one access to youths of all affiliations means that the goal of a maximum youth voter registration is achieved as all resistance or tension normally associated with affiliation is ironed out, and no youths are left behind.So you would be happy to escort two people, one in an MDC T-shirt and the other in a Zanu PF java print shirt?No, not in that way. It's more like church. While we may have a Zanu PF and MDC youth coming to the same church, they do not bring their slogans to church nor wear their T-shirts to the church outing, because they might just end up biting each other. The power is in being able to make young people understand that the #5x5Zim Campaign is a platform that calls for every young person, despite affiliation, to register to vote. This means that while they may have differences, they both need to be brought to the reality that they need to be registered to vote, and allow their vote to speak of their preferred affiliation.How many of your peers have registered as first time voters as a direct result of your encouragement?Excitement in the first group we mobilized was toned down by the slow and discouraging registration process encountered in Famona, the currently existing registration centre for Bulawayo. But 20 have so far registered. As more registration centres are opened, we hopie to get more youths going to register this week.Whose resources are you using for transport, food and other expenses?The campaign is basically a zero budget start up, progressively we might have supporting individuals or institutions resourcing it but for now it's working at zero dollars.The first group for instance, we agreed on a day that people were flexible with and people paid their transport into town. Then the group walked together to Famona. If walking as a group, it's a bit more fun and less exhausting- Famona is a walkable distance from the CBD. When people got there and hours later, the process was still slow, they simply walked away.This was a major setback, but it also taught my team a lesson to how a big group in one centre can be a challenge, hence a need for us to try and rethink and go with smaller numbers per day and centre, to ensure all youths on that day register.For now, no one.Is this initiative going nationwide or you will only focus on Bulawayo youths?It's definitely aiming at nationwide reach. We have young people in Harare, Victoria Falls, Gweru and Beitbridge so far. We are working on building the capacity of these to coordinate the initiative in their towns so that they reach young people outside Bulawayo. Hopefully, more towns will gain interest and join the campaign.In order to accelerate growth of the initiative, what assistance would you like from government, citizens, private sector and NGOs?Fundamentally, we would like these institutions to avail themselves so that we know the type of youth structure they have and how best we can help them mobilize them for registration. This includes them recognizing the need to resource the process for their respective youth groups in terms of probably providing transport for the youths, affidavits and anything else that might prove necessary for the success of the partnership. For organization or movements with established youth-targeted registration goals, it would be great to access mentorship and training for the youth coordinators of the #5x5Zim Campaign so that we can do more in more towns across Zimbabwe.Have you considered making a televised or radio broadcast appeal for assistance with:Actually those have been in mind and a part of our objectives in terms of resource mobilization. Thank you for the idea of a radio and television appeal because that will definitely go a long way.I managed to sit down with is Samukeliso Khumalo , the Director of Women's Institute for Leadership Development WILD Trust on Wednesday the 4th of October and she was very excited about the campaign. So we are happy to say that as an established organization, they have agreed to partner with us, so that through the synergy we are able to access resources as per your indication above that they are crucial to the success of the campaign.We will definitely tap into radio, television and newspaper platforms to reach out to more organizations and companies that can help resource the campaign.In your opinion, whose job should it be to encourage voter registration: State, NGOs, politicians or ordinary people such as yourself?I strongly believe that everyone, in their space and radar of influence, has an obligation to encourage people to register to vote. The basis of my view is that if we wait for one specific stakeholder to do it, they will only but reach out to a fraction of the population that's targeted. Look at ZEC for instance, while their aim is to get approximately 8 million Zimbabweans registered, they evidently cannot encourage and ensure that 8 million register without the help of such initiatives as our #5x5Zim Campaign.Do you have political aspirations?Yes I do. Under the current constitutional regulations for presidential candidates, I want to run for President in 2043. Should there be a reduction in the minimum age requirement for one to run for the presidential office, I will definitely run earlier.What do you personally want out of the 2018 election?I want the youth vote to speak truth into power.What final words do you have for Zimbabwean youths, and even older citizens?Change is a practical process. It starts in the decisions we make to act based on principles and values that define us, as an individual and then as a community. While we cry everyday for change, we forget that change begins with each individual, the choice they make to take responsibility and participate in developmental processes. When you choose integrity in your dealings as an individual, you reflect on your belief that the nation can only be sustained by integrity at all leadership levels. When you vote, you are claiming ownership of your country and claiming right to call to account those that you elect to lead you. My hope and aspiration is that every Zimbabwean, young and old, would take it upon themselves to find their role in the journey Zimbabwe is taking, and encourage others to do same. If we all unite in definitions the nation we envision, then inevitably, we will find ourselves working towards it. Private sector lender Axis Bank on Tuesday reported a nearly 36% increase in net profit at Rs 432 crore in the second quarter ended September, despite rise in bad loans. The bank had posted a net profit of Rs 319 crore for the July-September period of 2016-17. Total income increased to Rs 13,821 crore in the period under review from Rs 13,698.7 crore for the quarter ended September 30, 2016, Axis Bank said in a statement. During the quarter, gross non-performing assets (NPAs) of the bank rose to 5.9% compared with 4.17% in the same period a year ago. At the same time, the net NPA also inched up to 3.12% against 2.02% in the same quarter of the previous fiscal. As a result, the gross NPA shot up in absolute terms to Rs 27,402 crore at the end of September as compared to 16,379 crore at the end of the second quarter of the previous year. Gross NPA additions for the second quarter stood at Rs 8,936 crore, of which corporate slippages stood at Rs 8,110 crore, it said. The net interest income (NII) remained almost flat at Rs 4,540 crore as against Rs 4,514 crore in the second quarter of the last financial year. Net interest margin for stood at 3.45%. The bank further said that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has pointed out certain reclassifications in the banks asset classification and provisioning as on March 31, subsequent to the annual Risk Based Supervision (RBS) exercise conducted for fiscal 2017. The bank has duly recorded the impact of such reclassifications in the results for the quarter ended 30th September 2017, it said. The bank has a total loan outstanding of Rs 7,041 crore against the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) accounts mentioned in the two lists referred by RBI. The High Court of Karnataka on Tuesday again directed the state government to consider the application of a petitioner for Rajyotsava Award. Justice A S Bopanna was hearing a petition filed by B V Satyanarayana Rao, a Kannada poet and writer. The petitioner is a former engineer and has written and published over 96 books in Kannada and Sanskrit. The petitioner contended that the selection committee had overlooked his candidature for the award in 2015 in spite of him being eligible for the award. He also cited the High Courts 2014 order asking the authorities to consider his case. The petitioner had claimed that there are no guidelines followed by the government for selecting the awardees and had previously requested the court to issue directions in this regard. From legendary to amateur cartoonists, view the best of Telugu cartoons at the Indian Cartoon Gallery off MG Road from October 28 to November 18 near Kids Kemp. The Indian Institute of Cartoonists and a group of Telugu cartoonists called Heartoonists will organise Telugu Cartoonotsavam to celebrate artists from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The exhibition will have one work each from 120 senior and amateur cartoonists and will be a mix of political, general and social themes. The works of five late legends such as Bapu will also be displayed. Works of Ragati Pandari, a popular cartoonist and the first woman cartoonist in Telugu, will also be up for viewing. Many Telugu cartoonists such as Sekhar and Satyamurthy have had exhibitions with IIC in Bengaluru. Then the senior Telugu cartoonist Surendranath who lives in Bengaluru suggested having a collective exhibition of all cartoonists of the language and region, said V G Narendra, managing trustee of IIC. The Heartoonists group was formed last year with cartoonists from both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. We consider Talisetti Ramarao the father of Telugu cartoons. After him, Bapu is an influential figure in modern Telugu cartoons. His work is very popular and many try to imitate his style, said Hari Krishna, a member and organiser. Some of the cartoonists whose works will be displayed include Shankar Pamarthy, Surendra and Jayadev Babu. The artists plan to conduct workshops for younger, amateur cartoonists to interact and learn from seniors in the field. Eight senior artists will give tips on making the best use of photoshop, digital cartooning, and creating perspective. Members of the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) visited the Central Prisons at Parappana Agrahara on Tuesday to take stock of cases related to human rights violations. Though senior officials from the prison and the KSHRC termed the visit a regular one, sources in the prison said that the purpose of the visit was to gather details of the prisoners assaulted during the recent fracas while D Roopa was the DIG Prisons. KSHRC officials, including the acting chairperson, Meera C Saksena, arrived at the prison around noon and stayed there for a couple of hours. An hour prior to their visit, ADGP (Prisons) N S Megharikh visited the prisons and held a meeting with his subordinates, before he interacted with the prisoners. Somshekhar, chief jail superintendent, said: It was a casual visit by the KSHRC officials who interacted with our inmates and listened to their grievances. The inmates mainly complained about their release, remissions and paroles, which they had previously shared with the jail officials. Sources in the prisons said that as soon as the news of KSHRCs visit spread, prisoners began protesting over tightening of rules related to their parole, release, remissions, consumption of outside food, family visits, etc. The protest and the KSHRCs visit come after the Prisons departments restrictions curtailing the rights of prison inmates, especially after the new prison chief, Megharikh, took over. Megharikh has imposed restrictions over facilities, following allegations over irregularities and favouritism to high-profile inmates. It might be recalled that the KSHRC had taken up a suo motu case on the alleged assault on the inmates on earlier occasions. It had recommended measures to improve the conditions of prison. The KSHRC officials have urged the prison staff to follow prison rules while recommending inmates for premature release and parole. They also recommended measures to re-introduce tele-medicine at the prison hospital and recruitment of additional medical staff as doctors were short-staffed. It has also recommended the recruitment of paramedical staff to take care of the ailing inmates. Sleuths of the Air Intelligence Unit of Customs at Kempegowda International Airport thwarted gold smuggling attempts in three separate instances and seized the yellow metal weighing 7.5 kg worth Rs 2.3 crore. In the first case, 6.5 kg of gold was seized from two Jordanians. The two were identified as Abdel Rahman J A Rizik Al Dardasawi (38) and Saleh Talal Yousef Herzallah (38), both cloth and shoe traders from Jordan. Additional Commissioner of Customs, Harsha Vardhan Umre said Dardasawi had arrived from Dubai by Emirates flight EK-0564. The sleuths checked his baggage and found gold concealed in three packets wrapped with brown tape in specially made pockets in his trousers. Meanwhile, officials went through the flight manifesto and zeroed in on another passenger, Saleh Talal Yousef Herzallah with a similar travel itinerary as that of Dardasawis. Another team was sent to Hotel Crown where Herzallah was just checking in. He was searched and 3.250 grams of gold was seized from him. Interrogation revealed that they were not known to each other, but had been engaged by a mutual friend in Jordan to meet a person who would hand over a packet of gold to them to be delivered in India. They were assured of free flight tickets to and from Amman to Bengaluru. Two other cases In another instance, a construction worker from Malaysia, identified as Muniasamy Ponnaiah, was detained by customs who seized cut gold pieces worth Rs 4.5 lakh from him. He arrived by Air Asia Flight No. AK-053 around 10.45 pm from Kuala Lumpur on Monday. In another case, sleuths seized one kilogram of gold from underneath a passengers seat on an Indigo Flight No. 6E-096 from Dubai which landed in Bengaluru at 4.30 pm. Gold was concealed in a tubing under the seat of a passenger identified as K Naushad, a native of Kozhikode. A team of law officers, advocates and animal rights activists was attacked by a mob of over 100 when it was on an inspection of illegal slaughterhouses. They were attacked despite being accompanied by 35 policemen in a vehicle. Advocates H V Harish and D P Prasanna, public prosecutor S Rachiah, and two volunteers Kavitha Jain and Joshine Anthony were attacked by the mob. S Rachiah said DH it was a miracle that he and other members of the court-appointed team survived the savage attack. The mob was about to torch the vehicle in which we were sitting. he added. He said that they were visiting the slaughterhouses for inspection following the high courts directions. At three places, we did not face any problem. But when the team reached a two-wheeler garage at DB Halli near Yelahanka New Town, they faced a hostile crowd. Plaint registered A complaint has been registered at the Yelahanka New Town police station. Additional Commissioner of Police (East) Seemant Kumar Singh, said, Following the high court directions, law officers, NGOs and police went to inspect the illegal slaughterhouses in the Yelahanka New Town police station limits. Locals protested against the inspection and damaged the two police vehicles but nobody was injured in the incident. The Gau Gyan foundation had registered a complaint. The Congress on Tuesday strongly defended its president Sonia Gandhis son-in-law Robert Vadra, while demanding an enquiry by two sitting Supreme Court judges into the business dealings of BJP national president Amit Shahs son Jay Shah. Fresh charges have emerged against Vadra following a TV news report that absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari booked business-class tickets for Vadra in 2012. On the other hand, Jay Shahs business reportedly saw massive revenue growth a year after the BJP came to power. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in power for 41 months. The BJP is in power in Haryana and Rajasthan as well, the states where Vadra is facing allegations. In these 41 months of witch hunting, they (BJP leaders) have not been able to point out any violation or wrongdoing on Vadras part, AICC spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala told reporters here. Surjewala posed 10 questions on Jay Shahs business dealings. How did the business of Temple Enterprise Pvt Ltd, a company owned by Amit Shahs wife, daughter-in-law and son Jay Shah, increase 16,000 times in one year? What is the magic wand by which a company earning a surplus of mere Rs 18.8 lakh between 2004 and 2014 and making a loss in 2012-13 and 2013-14 increases its turnover within a year of BJP coming to power? was one of the questions. Modi has always claimed zero tolerance towards corruption. He said he wont eat and won't let others also eat (bribe). But this is a litmus test for Modi. Amit Shah must resign pending the completion of a fair probe. Even the RSS, which is BJPs parent organisation, has sought a probe, Surjewala said. No entry for two news channels Surjewalas press conference at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office here was mired in controversy as two news channels Times Now and Republic TV were not allowed to cover it. Surjewala defended the decision to keep them out. Journalism should be the mirror of truth and not the mirror of the ruling party, he said. When media persons asked if this was allowed in a democracy, KPCC working president Dinesh Gundu Rao said: In a democracy, we have the right to take a decision. People living close to the ill-fated building in Ejipura recall the horrific Monday morning that shook them to the core. Many of them saw the building collapse like a pack of cards and the aftermath remains tumultuous. While many of them have vacated their homes as a precaution, several others cannot access theirs as the rubble remains uncleared. On Tuesday, Sathi collected his belongings from the building next door. The entrance to his house has been blocked by the rubble. My family lived here but after the blast, I am unable to enter my house. Im planning to just take my belongings and keep them elsewhere, he said. Sathi, who lays tiles for a living, is all shaken up and is unable to respond to questions. Pushpa, another resident, said she saw Kalavathi, an old woman, falling from the first floor. Kalavathi later died. I knew Kala who lived with her daughter. I had come to fetch water, and all of a sudden, there was a big noise and the entire building crashed. We are still trying to recover from what has happened, she added. In Kalavathis house, a kitchen filled with utensils stares at the road that leads to the building. A photograph of an unknown family member hangs on its wall, as a mute witness of the tragedy. Mahendra, a security guard, lived right next to the ill-fated building until Monday. But he spent the night at a choultry belonging to the Kodanda Rama temple. The windows and bathroom doors have been ripped apart in the blast. The bathroom door just broke and fell on my son who was sleeping in the room. How can we live in a house where the doors and windows are broken? The landlord is not allowing us to enter the house and we are forced to sleep at the choultry, he said. Around 20 people spent the Monday night at the choultry, he added. For Balatharaj, it was a miraculous escape as she escaped the electricity pole that crashed on the compound wall just a few metres from where she had stood. I was drawing rangoli outside my house when I heard the blast and the building collapsed, she said. Srinivass family which also lives next door is trying to cope with the tragedy. His wife Deepa says she was right in front of the building at the time of the blast. We all were in a panic. Our children started crying after hearing the blast. The walls of our homes have cracked. Our Blacky (German Shepherd) is still disturbed and is not eating properly, Deepa said. BJP leader B J Puttaswamy on Tuesday threatened to stage a protest in front of the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) office if it fails to file an FIR against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with the denotification of BDA land near Hebbal. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Tuesday, MLC Puttaswamy said that if ACB fails to file the FIRs against Siddaramaiah, then the party would drag the agency to court. The denotification pertains to 6.26 acres of prime land at Bhoopasandra near Hebbal, he added. Puttaswamy also demanded that the government should constitute a legal team headed by former Lokayukta Santhosh Hegde to scrutinise the charges. He said that he had submitted documents pertaining to both cases to the Chief Ministers Office. He demanded that Siddaramaiah should step down if the illegalities were proven by the legal team. In case the documents failed to substantiate the charges levelled by him, Puttaswamy said he would hang himself. News / National by Staff reporter The ferocious fightback in last Wednesday's explosive Zanu-PF politburo meeting by under-fire Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his backers shows that the former liberation movement's deadly succession wars are far from over, both analysts and party insiders say.Speaking to the Daily News On Sunday yesterday, the analysts also warned that life for ordinary Zimbabweans was set to get even tougher, with the attention of Zanu-PF bigwigs focused solely on their political survival in the twilight of President Robert Mugabe's tenure in power.Senior party officials who were canvassed for their opinion said despite taking huge blows from his enemies over the past few months, including seeing his influence being severely weakened in last week's Cabinet reshuffle, it was "way premature" to write off Mnangagwa's chances of succeeding Mugabe.This comes after Mnangagwa and his allies came out guns blazing against Higher Education minister Jonathan Moyo at last Wednesday's tense politburo meeting in Harare - taking many people by surprise, including, by most accounts, powerful First Lady Grace Mugabe and other alleged G40 kingpins.The analysts who spoke to the Daily News On Sunday said reports that Mnangagwa had reminded Mugabe in the meeting that it was only he and securocrats who had saved the nonagenarian from losing power - after the 93-year-old's stunning defeat by opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai in the hotly-disputed 2008 polls - could also prove significant going forward."Mnangagwa's fierce fightback can have a mobilising effect, as his previous silence and rolling with the punches was beginning to make some doubt the fight in him."Until now, the perception was that he was on the receiving and losing end, and some fence-sitters were beginning to desert him, thinking that his was a sinking ship."This fightback should thus work to steady his ship a bit. But whether his political ship doesn't sink or not will depend on what he does next," political analyst McDonald Lewanika said."Of course, he has to his advantage history and knowledge of Mugabe's pressure points. If one notices, when Mnangagwa has taken to fighting himself, his punches almost always hit the mark."If he reverts back to his previous posture (of sitting back), it will not inspire his followers and some of them will begin to make their political calculations based on projections of his loss - which will be to his detriment."He has now called out the G40, and with Jonathan Moyo never being known to run away from a political fight, it is game on again and one waits eagerly to see how the return fixture will play out," Lewanika added.Another political analyst Maxwell Saungweme, told the Daily News On Sunday that it also now appeared as if Mugabe still trusts Mnangagwa."He trusts him as they come a long way. Putting former Central Intelligence Organisation boss (Happyton) Bonyongwe at the Justice ministry strengthens rather than weakens Mnangagwa - contrary to some public perceptions."It effectively enables him (Mnangagwa) to concentrate on power grab without the extra responsibility of running a ministry."At the same time, it also puts the G40 in a fix as they can now be sued without fear of conflict of interest. Mugabe could also come down on Moyo and the G4O soon, as he can't afford to ignore Mnangagwa's politburo presentation," Saungweme said.He added that the indications were also that Mnangagwa was still popular in Zanu-PF and that he could win the top prize at the party's mooted elective congress."This is why the G40 wanted Mugabe to fire him and avoid congress and Mugabe refused. To me it's game on," Saungweme said.United Kingdom-based academic Alex Magaisa said the fact that Mugabe did not fire Mnangagwa when he whittled his powers in the Cabinet reshuffle would work to embolden the VP's supporters."Keeping Mnangagwa in government is Mugabe's strategy of containment. Mnangagwa will continue serving Mugabe as long as he is inside."Mugabe timed his reshuffle in such a way as to pre-empt Mnangagwa's fightback which was due to come in the politburo meeting. By the time Mnangagwa struck, the deed had already been done," he said.Earlier this year, when there was frenzied speculation within Zanu-PF that Mnangagwa's mooted presidential aspirations were dead in the water, after Mugabe's birthday interview with State broadcaster, the ZBC, in which he said there was no one fit to succeed him, former ruling party spokesperson and Cabinet minister Rugare Gumbo also said the Midlands godfather could not be written off.Gumbo - who worked with both Mugabe and Mnangagwa for many decades, before and after Zimbabwe's independence from Britain in 1980 - said it was "folly" to assume that Mugabe had shut the door on his deputy succeeding him.He also said it could not be ruled out that Mnangagwa himself was "playing a game of hide-and-seek" with the nonagenarian - adding that the two men had a strong bond and long-standing relationship which was "only fully understood by them"."Mugabe has always been a slippery character because, of all things, he always wanted power the most. While many other liberation movements had a succession plan, Mugabe long decided against coming up with one."Still, I wouldn't say Mnangagwa has been blocked out. However, what I know is that Mugabe and Mnangagwa vakateyanirana mariva (the have set traps for each other). They are playing each other and only time will tell who will win," he said.Zanu-PF is currently divided in the middle, with the G40 faction involved in a life-and-death tussle with Mnangagwa's backers, Team Lacoste.Mugabe has consistently refused to name a successor, arguing that it is Zanu-PF that must decide this issue through a congress when the time comes.Of late, the name of reclusive Defence minister Sydney Sekeramayi has also been thrown into the succession ring, although the veteran politician - who has served in Mugabe's Cabinet since independence in 1980 - has refused to be drawn into the debacle.The party's infighting took an ominous turn in August when Mnangagwa fell sick during an interface rally in Gwanda, which his backers said was a poison attack by his G40 enemies.Mnangagwa was later airlifted to South Africa where he had emergency surgery. He subsequently issued a statement denying that his illness was caused by ice cream from the First Family's Gushungo Dairies, although, he has consistently suggested that he was poisoned.Recently, Mnangagwa again suggested to hordes of his supporters who had converged at Mupandawana Growth Point in Gutu, for the late Masvingo Provincial Affairs minister Shuvai Mahofa's memorial service, that he was poisoned in the same way Mahofa was in 2015.Days after that Masvingo address, his colleague Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko, who was acting president at the time, issued a scathing statement in which he attacked him for allegedly trying to divide the country and to undermine Mugabe.Last Monday, Mugabe then moved to fire and demote several ministers perceived to be sympathetic to him, in a reshuffle which analysts said appeared to be largely motivated by the desire to contain the Midlands godfather's control and influence of key government ministries. The state government trifurcated Bangalore University (BU) by a notification last July and laid the ground for it with a gazette notification in 2015 but it has not yet released any funds for the development of the new varsities. Bengaluru North University (BNU), which will get a new campus at Amaravathi, Chikkaballapur district, is now functioning on a seed amount of just Rs 3 crore which it received from the parent BU. The government has decided that BU will provide Rs 15 crore to BNU but the transfer process has not begun yet. Vice-Chancellor of BNU, Prof T D Kemparaju, said: We have submitted a proposal of Rs 185 crore to the government for the 2018-19 academic year. It may come up for discussion in the winter session of the legislature and it has been indicated to us that it may be announced in the state budget in February. The Kori committee which looked into the trifurcation of BU had recommended that the new universities be given Rs 150 crore, to begin with, the V-C said. The university had also submitted a proposal for Rs 350 crore that will be required over five years. Earlier, it was reported that Bengaluru Central University also did not receive funds from the government and was functioning on seed money from the BU. Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, BNU V-C detailed the plans for the new varsity which has jurisdiction over the districts of Kolar, Chikkaballapur, and several Assembly constituencies in Bengaluru Urban and Rural districts. We got to know through the media that there are some villages in Chikkaballapur and Kolar where there is not a single degree holder. Karnataka is known as the hub of IT and higher education but its shocking that there are such villages even today, Kemparaju said. The university intends to conduct a demographic and economic survey in identified areas with help from its Master of Social Work (MSW) students to understand the reason for the trend. We are in touch with the district administration. We want to identify and adopt such villages. We will help students here to pursue higher education, he added. In the 2018-19 academic year, the university will start eight postgraduate courses MA in English, Journalism and Mass Communication and Political Science, MSc in Mathematics, Fashion and Apparel Technology, among others. Three bachelors degree programmes in Hospitality and Event Management, BBA in Civil Aviation and BSc in Electronic Media. We are not starting any traditional BSc courses in the 2018-19 year for lack of labs. In 2019-20, we propose to start courses in Physics and the following year in Chemistry, the V-C said. DH News Service State-owned telecom company Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has offered 50% additional talk time under BSNL Laxmi promotional offer for prepaid mobile customers on Pan India basis. Under this offer, 50% extra talk time on top-up of Rs 290/390/590 is given (i.e. Talk value of Rs 435 will be will be given on the Top-up of Rs 290, Rs 585 on Topup of Rs 390 & Rs 885 on Top up of Rs 590). The validity of this offer is from October 16 to 21. R Mani, CGMT Karnataka Circle, BSNL, said This offer is being given to our loyal prepaid mobile customers, so that they can share their happiness among their friends and relatives during the auspicious occasion of Diwali. Detailed information in this regard may be seen in our website www.bsnl.co.in. DH News Service By Caitlin Dickerson 16 October 2017CHARCO ABAJO, Utuado, P.R. (The New York Times) When Hurricane Maria swept away the bridge that led in and out of Charco Abajo, a remote village in the mountainous inland of Puerto Rico, Carlos Ocasio and Pablo Perez Medina decided that they could not wait for help to arrive. When the wind and rain calmed, the welder and the retired handyman climbed off the edge of the bridge and jumped down onto a pile of debris. They crossed the Vivi River, whose waters had risen to their chests, and walked several miles to a hardware store, where they bought a cable, a metal harness and wheels. They built a pulley that now spans the gap where the bridge once was, and attached a shopping cart, after removing its legs and wheels, which they have been using to transfer food, water and supplies across the divide. Though aid groups began to arrive a week later, the two men, both 60 years old, raised a sign to describe how it felt in Charco Abajo immediately after the storm. It reads Campamento de los Olvidados, Spanish for Camp of the Forgotten. Nearly a month after Maria devastated this island commonwealth, life remains a struggle. Even as some assistance has arrived, residents have learned to improvise without power or running water, especially those who live in remote areas, who waited the longest for help from emergency responders and for whom recovery is the farthest off.The winding roads that once paved a lush, tree-lined route from San Juan, the capital, to Utuado now appear post-apocalyptic. Leafless, branchless trees, denuded by Marias winds, are tangled around one another and spill out into the highway. Rock formations, once covered with vegetation, have been stripped bare. Permanently windblown palm trees look like half-shaven heads. And houses that were once tucked neatly into the hills are now roofless, irreparably damaged wrecks sliding down the sides of them. All that remains of the many wooden, one-room houses that once dotted the hills here are tall and narrow three-sided concrete structures that were built to protect bathroom plumbing, and which are now surrounded by piles of rubble.Examples of the creativity of people living in the mountains are on display across the countryside. All day and night, people who live in the mountains cluster along roadways to bathe and do laundry in places where locals have redirected water from higher up that spews out of PVC pipes. They fill empty bottles and buckets, which they use to clean their homes and flush toilets.But for some, the situation is more fragile than it is for others.More than 100 bridges in Puerto Rico were damaged by Maria and 18 have been closed indefinitely, according to Ivonne Rosario, a spokeswoman for Puerto Ricos transportation department. An unknown number collapsed during the storm, leaving entire communities like Charco Abajo stranded. [more] News / National by Staff reporter War Veterans loyal to Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa have said there is no need for a December special congress for Zanu-PF, and said President Robert Mugabe must rein-in his wife.This comes as Zanu-PF will now hold an extra-ordinary congress instead of the usual congress to give Mugabe a fresh five-year mandate as party leader, strengthening his hand as rivals plot to succeed him and to consider constitutional amendments to create a vice president post for First Lady Grace Mugabe.In an unsolicited interview with the Daily News, Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) secretary-general Victor Matemadanda, whose executive has already endorsed Mnangagwa, said war veterans should stand up against the first family."We should stand up and say this nonsense should stop, this is not going to be allowed. We cannot tolerate any of the nonsense anymore. Mugabe has failed to control his wife."Every chaotic thing comes from the first family. When Grace says she is not safe, she should remember that she was not part of our agenda when we went to war, we cannot continue to have such stupid things," fumed Matemadanda."If the congress is going to endorse Mugabe, then why then should we go for a congress? What we want as the military wing of Zanu is for Zanu-PF to come up with a successor to Mugabe."We have said before that Mugabe is a foil of the G40 faction's candidate (Defence minister Sydney) Sekeramayi and we will make sure that they will not have it their way."Sekeramayi has emerged as a dark horse of some sorts, with his name being thrown into the succession ring.Asked how they could influence the congress considering that they are now out of Zanu-PF structures, Matemadanda said: "I am outside Zanu G40 not the real Zanu-PF. For as long as I am a war veteran, I qualify to be a member of the real Zanu-PF. We will remain with the-PF Zanu they can take the Zanu. Mugabe never held a gun, those who held guns will take the-PF."He said while Mugabe and the G40 faction can claim Zanu, they have no control over the Patriotic Front (PF) which is the military element of the ruling party."There is an element for the nationalists, the other element is for war veterans, those who went to war. It is an organisation that realised that they had to fight for independence and left the country for foreign lands and joined either Zipra or Zanla."How can anyone now say the war veterans have no say, when they are using our brand."If you are talking about-PF, you are talking about war veterans. It is not going to be easy anymore, we had a congress recently and what has changed now?"Since we had a congress recently and Mugabe was elected president under the Zanu-PF constitution, that person automatically becomes the president for the next elections," he said.Meanwhile, the ZNLWVA Matabeleland region provincial executives yesterday also vowed to oppose the congress.Addressing journalists at the ZNLWVA Entumbane offices, provincial executives from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and South accused G40 of trying to smuggle an amendment to the Zanu-PF constitution to allow for a woman in the presidiumThey alleged it was a plot to make Grace one of Mugabe's deputies."As war veterans, we don't have any issues against the holding of an extra-ordinary Zanu-PF congress as long as its agenda is clear, without any sinister motives," said Cephas Ncube, the ZNLWVA Bulawayo provincial chairperson.Section Ncube and Sonny Mnguni represented Matabeleland South and North respectively.The press conference came just after a meeting to deliberate on the holding of an extra-ordinary Zanu-PF congress."We are aware the G40 animal has a sinister motive; it is pushing a sinister agenda where they want to push for changes in the presidium. That we will not allow, we are going to defend the revolution," he said.The former liberators, who are aligned to the Christopher Mutsvangwa-led faction, said the G40 faction was misleading Mugabe."The G40 is lying to Mugabe, they have endeared themselves to Mugabe through lies yet under the cover of darkness have a sinister agenda to oust him, and others. We are watching them closely."They want Mugabe gone yesterday. We know they already have their candidate but as war veterans, we are saying we are ready to defend the revolution."We are also not against a women's quota but at the same time we are saying this is not a genuine call, but a sinister call to allow for an amendment to the party constitution so that someone or some other people get positions," Ncube said.He, however, expressed reservation at the move to continue amending the party constitution to suit other people's needs."The constitution was amended recently, and we cannot be having a constitution willy-nilly amendment to suit G40's evil intents. We are aware this is a G40 plot, and we are saying no to that. We are stepping in to stop the G40 in its tracks." 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. Linde LienHwa making new gas production investments in Taiwan Linde LienHwa, a joint venture between the Germany-based Linde Group and Taiwan-based LienHwa Industrial, is a manufacturer of bulk and electronic specialty gases used during the manufacturing of semiconductors, displays, solar panels, LEDs and others. The company has been operating in Taiwan's gas manufacturing and supply industry for over 30 years and has already grown to become a major gas supplier for many electronics players in both Taiwan and China. In September 2017, Linde LienHwa announced investments in production of electronic special gases at two Taiwan facilities - octafluorobutane (C4F8) purification and filling facility in Taichung, and hexachlorodisilane (HCDS) transfill facility in Taoyuan - to enhance its portfolio to meet growing demand from its Taiwan-based and international clients. Linde LienHwa currently has capacity of over 100 tons of C4F8 per year for use in advanced semiconductor etching processes as well as cleaning production chambers in predominantly older-sized semiconductor tools. Since the transfill process involves repackaging material into specialized stainless steel vessels while improving the purity and validating the quality, Linde LienHwa's investment in transfilling facility for HCDS is sized to serve both Taiwan and customers throughout Asia. HCDS is used for depositing silicon compounds at very low process temperatures, which is important for making nanoscale electrical insulators in memory and logic processor chips. During an interview by Digitimes, Linde Electronics' head of Global Electronics Andreas Weisheit and head of Market Development Paul Stockman pointed out that the company is currently operating in many different value channels. It makes many of the materials in-house. For some materials, the company purchases them from outside suppliers and purifies them for its clients. It also sources some materials from third-party players and conducts analysis and repackaging-into-container services for semiconductor and electronics clients. The company has three modes of delivery. Most of its products are produced, purified, and packaged off-site into various sized containers. These range from small-sized gas lecture bottles, to larger gas cylinders, to tube and ISO containers the length of a shipping container. The materials for the containers are primarily made from stainless steel or aluminum, but can use specialized materials like nickel and alloys to contain more reactive chemicals. Some of its products are used in such high volumes that its customers use bulk storage tanks located on their sites instead. Linde LienHwa produces these materials - for example oxygen, argon, and carbon dioxide - in ultra-high purity plants off-site, and transports them in bulk trucks to keep customer tanks topped-up. Remote monitoring allows the company to optimize deliveries to ensure customers always have adequate supply. Lastly, nitrogen is used in such high volumes at modern electronic manufacturing plants that it is most economical to produce it on-site, either as a dedicated plant or as part of the network of plants in a science park connected by a common pipeline. Here, production of gaseous nitrogen is continuous, and supply is backed-up by storing reserve amounts as liquid. Linde LienHwa and its customers monitor the purity jointly in real time. These on-site nitrogen plants are another way in which Linde LienHwa invests with its customers. Because of the size, cost, and complexity of the plants, planning and construction occur at the same time its customers build their facilities. This early investment allows customers to have ultra-high purity nitrogen available as soon as the extensive pipework for their plants are put in place. The company has been increasing its investments in Taiwan. Linde LienHwa moved its global electronics R&D center from the US to Taiwan in 2016. The company expects the R&D center to further enhance the company's development and to provide better quality support to clients. Earlier in 2017, the company also moved its headquarters of Global Electronics from Singapore to Taiwan and re-assigned executives to Taiwan to provide better services for their clients in Taiwan and China. Linde LienHwa said it is not looking to be only a gas material supplier to its clients, but also a trusted partner. With many of its semiconductor clients aggressively advancing into 10nm, 7nm, 5nm, and even 3nm manufacturing processes, and clients from other industries planning to develop new applications, the company has been working closely with all its clients to assist them to achieve their goals. Linde LienHwa's new electronics R&D center in Taichung, Taiwan. Photo: Company Subscriber content preview By KEVIN McGILL Associated Press KENNER, La. Authorities searched by air and water Monday for a contractor who disappeared when an oil and gas platform exploded on a lake near New Orleans. Seven people were injured, including three who were in critical condition, authorities said. The Coast Guard reported that a fire aboard the structure was out by midday and there were no signs of pollution visible from the air. A Coast Guard helicopter, along with Coast Guard vessels and boats from local agencies, continued looking for the missing worker. . . . Subscriber content preview PORTLAND (AP) Portland fire officials say workers installing roofing material unintentionally started a fire on the roof of a vacant high-rise building Sunday morning. Portland Fire and Rescue said investigators found that flames from a propane torch came in contact with primer and ignited a fire that spread to highly flammable foam insulation. . . . News / National by Staff reporter Morgan Tsvangirai, the Movement for Democratic Change leader, has lifted the suspension party deputy treasurer Charlton Hwende who had been sanctioned for apparently condoning violence in the opposition movement.Hwende was suspended over his alleged links to the bloody intra-party clashes in Bulawayo. Tabitha Khumalo and Hwende, who are both members of the party's standing committee, were suspended alongside three youth members believed to be involved in the skirmishes, where Tsvangirai's deputy Thokozani Khupe, chairperson, Lovemore Moyo and deputy organising secretary, Abednico Bhebhe were assaulted.Bhebhe, Khupe and Moyo were assaulted by youths sent from Harare after they snubbed the MDC Alliance launch in the capital on August 5.Tabitha Khumalo's suspension was lifted on 25 August 2017.Hwende confirmed the development Monday through social media."Today I received a letter from President Morgan Tsvangirai informing me that my suspension as the MDC T National Deputy Treasurer General has been lifted and I should resume my duties immediately. I would like to first and foremost thank the President and all the organs of the Party and general Party membership and pledge to double my efforts and ensure that in 2018 we deliver change," said Hwende.Hwende suspended in August after MDC-T deputy leader Thokozani Khupe was attacked by activists at the party's Bulawayo offices, which left her nursing some injuries.Ms Khupe, Mr Bhebhe and Mr Moyo were attacked after they allegedly convened a meeting at the party's provincial offices in Bulawayo a day after the Alliance launch.The trio are against the formation of an MDC Alliance in Matabeleland provinces as they believe the MDC-T can go solo in the region.To save face, Mr Tsvangirai swiftly moved to suspend the party's national deputy spokesperson Ms Thabitha Khumalo and the deputy treasurer-general Mr Charlton Hwende and three members of the youth wing pending investigations.The MDC-T suspended Bhebhe to quell a potential rebellion from Matabeleland structures against party leader Mr Morgan Tsvangirai.Bhebhe was found guilty of making reckless statements to the Press. While Donegal largely escaped serious damage yesterday, many parts of the country are counting the cost today after Hurricane Ophelia battered the country on Monday. The county's Major Emergency Team, involving emergency services and council staff, is orchestrating the response and clean-up after the deadly storm. Dozens of roads are blocked or partially blocked in Offaly as staff deal with loose power cables, fallen trees and debris from damaged property. Power Nationwide, up to 240,000 people are still without electricity as a result of Ophelia. ESB crews were working last night as the storm passed and power has been restored to many homes, bringing down the numbers affected from a peak of 360,000. Crews will be out today and in the coming days to restore power, a process that is somewhat complicated by structural damage and debris. ESB Networks have warned that it may be eight days before everyone has seen their power restored. Follow live outage updates on www.esb.ie. Water Meanwhile, the Operational Planning and Emergency Manager at Irish Water, Katherine Walshe, said around 92 schemes are at risk, serving 360,000 people, if power is not restored in some areas before lunchtime. "This impacts customers where storage isn't available in the reservoirs or where the water quality cannot be guaranteed," she said. This issue is predominantly affecting the south of the country, although there are reported water outages locally throughout the country. Burst water mains also pose a flooding risk in local areas. The majority of problems for Irish Water are in counties Cork, Kerry, Wexford, Waterford, Galway, Leitrim, Westmeath and Cavan. Find out more on www.water.ie. The Human Cost Hurricane Ophelia took a considerable human cost, claiming three lives and endangering hundreds more. A woman died in Waterford after a tree fell on her car, while a man was killed in a similar incident in Dundalk. A third man passed away in Tipperary in an incident with a chainsaw as he attempted to clear a tree from a road. There were numerous stories of near misses with trees falling on occupied cars around the country. The HSE has warned that A&E departments will be busier than normal today as hospitals resume full duties, including outpatient procedures, which were cancelled yesterday. Transport On the transport front, most services, including Irish Rail and Bus Eireann, have resumed, but they are warning of running delays caused by fallen trees and lines on routes. They have urged people to check with their provider before travelling and to expect delays as the clean-up continues. A number of Irish Rail services, mostly between Galway, Limerick and Dublin, are running at reduced capacity. The Luas remains out of action until 12pm today when a meeting will be held to discuss its return to service. Hundreds of flights were cancelled yesterday but Dublin Airport is now running a full service, although passengers are advised to check with their airline before travelling to the terminal. Risk of Flooding The timing of the storm on Monday coincided with low tides in most areas, reducing the risk of serious flooding. There is issues with flooding locally due to burst water mains and pipes, but coastal flooding has not become a problem as a result of Hurricane Ophelia. Flooding alerts in places like Limerick were cancelled as Ophelia passed over quickly without significant sea issues. Spot flooding has been reported in some areas, predominantly along the South West coast, and caution is advised in those areas with sitting water on some roads and walking routes. Schools & Colleges The Department of Education took the decision on Monday evening to keep schools closed again on Tuesday. This decision caused widespread disruption to parents who were due back at work, but the Department justified the call by suggesting it gives schools a chance to assess the damage/power/water situation before taking in hundreds of children. It is expected that 90% of schools will re-open on Wednesday but parents are urged to check with their child's school before travelling. Structural damage has been caused to some school buildings, mostly in the South West, posing a potential health and safety risk to pupils and staff. Most third level colleges opened on Tuesday and are now set to remain open in the long-term without disruption. Storm Brian The Irish Times reported on Tuesday morning that Ireland may yet suffer more stormy conditions at the weekend. Weather charts show that Storm Brian is tracking towards Ireland and the UK, bringing with it winds of up to 140km/h. You can keep up to date with all weather updates and warning on www.met.ie. Although the experts are advising that we're not quite out of the woods just yet, it seems that for most parts of Donegal the worst is over from Storm Ophelia, and in truth, it wasn't anything as bad as we might have expected in a county where we are not unfamiliar with strong winds. But, there could be a sting in the tail in the early hours of tomorrow morning - circa 5am - and Donegal County Council have pointed out that there remains a possibility of flooding in coastal areas, especially in the south and southwest of the county. High tides are predicted around 5am with higher than normal sea swells expected. Donegal County Council have advised people to exercise extreme caution when travelling on roads in the aftermath of Storm Ophelia. According to ESB Networks circa 100 homes remain without power in Donegal, with outages in Malin, Rosgeir and Kincasslagh. There are reports county-wide of trees down, but other than a closure warning on the Harry Blaney Bridge however, all roads are open, and the Blaney Bridge will be re-opened tomorrow morning. The national picture is much different with three people having lost their lives in incidents directly linked to Storm Ophelia. In a tweet just after 9pm tonight, ESB Networks said 330,000 customers remain without power tonight. Met Eireann tweeted their latest forecast until 9am Tuesday - https://twitter.com//status/920026568092725249 The National Emergency Coordination Group have updated their public safety advice as Ophelia continues to move north. They say Ireland is "open for business" tomorrow. 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. News / National by Staff reporter South African Kwaito star Sipho "Brickz" Ndlovu has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in the Roodepoort Magistrate's Court, west of Johannesburg, on Tuesday.The celebrity was found guilty of raping his 17-year-old niece at his home in Johannesburg in November 2013.The woman who is now 22, said in a statement that she was not coping well after the rape. She was allegedly suicidal.His R50 000 bail was revoked after the conviction. PATIENTS in Co Louth are being warned of backlogs at local GP surgeries and Emergency Departments following Ophelia. It is expected there will be continued disruption to services, however, normal services will resume over the coming days. Health officials are urging members of the public to only attend their GP or Emergency Departments if it's urgent. It is expected family doctors and hospitals will be very busy today. Patients are being told to expect some delays in their appointments and discharges from hospitals over the next few days. Minister for Health Simon Harris said: The message...is if you have an appointment turn up as planned, unless you hear otherwise. In the event of a cancellation, people will be contacted. People can expect some delays in their appointments and discharges from hospitals over the next few days. He added: The main focus of our community services tomorrow and in the coming days will be dealing with the most vulnerable patients. DUNDALK woman Anne Campbell has played many roles during her life: daughter, sister, friend, journalist, wife and mother. For the past few weeks, Anne has been getting stuck into her latest role as Sinn Fein Louth County Councillor for Dundalk South. I like helping people; my new job means I'm able to ask questions on behalf of constituents and highlight important issues such as housing, said Anne. The 40-year-old from the Dublin Road lives with her husband, Laurence, and their two children, Cillian, aged nine, and Connla, aged seven. Originally from Coalisland, Co Tyrone, Anne moved with her family to Ravensdale when she was just ten years old. She is the eldest of six children. Her mother, Mary, was a secondary school teacher and her father, Pat, worked in engineering. The couple later set up a mushroom business in Jonesborough, Co Armagh. From the age of 12, Anne helped out by working for the family business during school holidays. I attended St Louis Secondary School and had an a great experience there. I really enjoyed English and history and had super teachers, she said. My parents were never involved in politics but it was always discussed around the dinner table. They allowed a great expression of views. When Anne left secondary school she went to Paris where she worked as an au pair for a year. She returned to Dundalk in 1996 and was told by her mother that she had to get a job. There was a strong work ethic instilled in us; we weren't allowed to lie around during the summer, she said. I saw an ad in the paper for a job as a waitress in The Hotel Imperial and decided to apply for it. I was on my way to hand in my CV when I decided to call into The Dundalk Democrat. I didn't know anyone there but I met with the then editor Peter Kavanagh and he asked me if I was any good at English in school. Anne added: The following week I started working as a news reporter for The Dundalk Democrat. I loved it but it was only for the summer months. After Anne's stint in The Dundalk Democrat she decided to move to Belfast where she worked in the civil service and British Telecom for three years. In 1999 Anne decided to study journalism at the Belfast Institute. She was half way through the course when she received a call from The Dundalk Democrat. I was offered a full-time position as a news reporter and accepted it. I worked for the paper until 2004, she said. After The Dundalk Democrat, Anne took up a position as a news reporter for the Irish Star on Sunday for a year. She left the Irish Star on Sunday to take on the challenge of being a news editor at a start-up newspaper, The Daily Ireland. The paper, which covered stories from an Irish Republican viewpoint, existed from January 2005 to September 2006. The Daily Ireland's Managing Director was Northern Ireland's current Minister of Finance Mairtin O Muilleoir. It was a super team. Some of them went on to do incredible things and are still active in journalism, said Anne. After The Daily Ireland folded Anne landed a job in the Irish Daily Star and commuted daily to Dublin from her home in Louth. In 2006, an opportunity arose at The Argus to become a staff reporter so Anne jumped at the chance to work locally. I spent 11 years at The Argus and had a great time there. It was an amazing place to work; I've made lifelong friends, she said. Anne decided to make the switch to local politics when Louth County Councillors Kevin Meenan and Jennifer Green stepped down. When I heard the news, the thought crossed my mind. I talked to a couple of friends in the party and had a meeting with the higher-ups in Sinn Fein, she said. After that meeting, I decided to join the party and handed in my notice at The Argus on August 9. I finished up on September 15 and a few days later had my first meeting as a county councillor. Anne will now hold her seat until May 2019 when she will have to run for election. She is planning to work hard to improve the housing crisis situation in Co Louth. Former US president Bill Clinton is being conferred with an honorary doctorate at Dublin City University for his contribution to peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland. Sr Stanislaus Kennedy and the founder of Glen Diplex, Martin Naughton, are also being honoured at this morning's ceremony. During Mr Clinton's eight years in the White House up to 2001, the IRA declared a ceasefire and the Good Friday Agreement was signed in Belfast. He and his wife, Hillary, are deeply committed to the peace process. Ireland's still unfinished story of reconciliation is arguably his most successful foreign policy involvement. He shares the stage with Sr Stan, who has challenged social inequality, particularly the area of homelessness, throughout her life. Mr Naughton and his wife Carmel have a track record of donating to good causes, as well as building one of the world's largest manufacturing companies. The remnants of former hurricane Ophelia slammed into Ireland on Monday, claiming three lives, leaving nearly 400,000 without power and further cementing the 2017 hurricane seasons place in history. This time, scientists warn, the storms far reach into the eastern Atlantic illustrates how rising global temperatures could potentially expand the range of dangerous storms across the globe. Before being downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone, Ophelia was a Category 3 hurricane on Saturday and Sunday. It went farther east than any other previously recorded Category 3 hurricane in the Atlantic Basin and broke a record set in 1980. As sea surface temperatures continue to warm, the region of the Atlantic Ocean that can support the genesis and strengthening of tropical storms and hurricanes is expanding eastward, said Michael Mann, a distinguished professor of atmospheric science and the director of the Earth System Science Center at Penn State University. Hurricanes are not only reaching much farther to the east, but theyre forming farther east as well, Mann noted. Hurricane Irma, which devastated parts of the Caribbean and the southeastern United States last month, was the strongest hurricane to ever form as far east in the Atlantic as it did, he said. These are precisely the sort of things we expect to happen as we continue to warm the planet. We should not be surprised that they are happening.Michael Mann, Earth System Science Center at Penn State University In my view, these are not coincidences, Mann said. These are precisely the sort of things we expect to happen as we continue to warm the planet. We should not be surprised that they are happening. Kevin Trenberth, a distinguished senior scientist in the Climate Analysis Section at the National Center for Atmospheric Research, said its not unprecedented for an Atlantic storm to affect Europe it happens every 3 or 4 years or so, he said but added that there is an unusual aspect to this. The storms eastward reach also coincides with another record, Trenberth said. [S]torms forming farther to the east and becoming strong is a sign of warmer oceans, and this year has seen the highest upper ocean heat content on record in the tropical Atlantic. The rainy, windy conditions caused by Ophelia closed all schools in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland on Monday, as well as some schools in Wales. Flights in and out of the region were canceled until further notice, and authorities urged everyone to stay indoors. This year, Australia continued its descent in the Global Innovation Index, dropping four places*. Now ranked 23rd, the nations innovation performance lags behind that of neighbour (and Rugby rival) New Zealand. This is concerning given the Federal Governments $1.1 billion National Innovation and Science Agenda, launched nearly two years ago, was intended to transform Australia into an innovation leader. As part of this weeks exclusive Lets Talk feature, focusing on Innovation, Dynamic Business put the following question to more than a dozen entrepreneurs and industry experts: What could the Federal Government do to better support innovation? There were calls, amongst this weeks line-up, for the Federal Government to pay the R&D tax incentive quarterly, reserve tenders for startups and SMEs, raises awareness of the support available to entrepreneurs and improve ease of access to international talent. Commentators also recommended the Government subsidise flexible arrangements that support womens workforce participation, take inspiration from the governments in Sweden and New Zealand, increase support for accelerators and incubators, have a continuity plan for initiatives to ensure they survive a change of administration, and tackle innovation at the educational level by, for instance, connecting startups to students and graduates. Read on for a wish list of innovation recommendations for Federal Government: What could the Federal Government do to better support innovation? Mark Fletcher, CEO, Cohort Go: The R&D tax incentive has been a major support for tech startups and a very positive regulation by the Federal Government. Unfortunately, the way in which it is administered can be a roadblock to innovation. Considering the refund is applied on an annual basis and it can take 16 to 18 months for the funds to come back, this can have a negative impact on a startups capital position and cash flow. With capital being a major issue for early-stage ventures, this can really reduce their ability to invest in product development. Increasing the R&D tax incentive to a quarterly cycle would be hugely beneficial in helping smaller businesses to innovate. Another area in which all governments could show more support for innovation is through their tender process. By having a designated percentage of government tenders strictly for SMEs and startups, the federal government could significantly boost national innovation and help raise the acceptance of startups as a valuable part of the eco-system. Helen Awali, CEO, Bookmarc & Heads Over Heels Portfolio CEO: Innovation leads to futureproofing our jobs, industry and livelihoods, hence it is critical for economic growth. The Federal Government can support innovation by creating campaigns to raise awareness of the resources and support available to entrepreneurs seeking to enter the tough world of startups. In addition, they should consider running innovation camps for businesses who are internet of things as not everyone is in fintech. Alex Gruszka, COO, StartupAUS: The most important move the Federal Government could make is to define innovation and set concrete goals for our innovation strategy. The National Innovation and Science Agenda did that in 2015 and was a massive step forward; however, since then the message has become diffuse, broad and largely lost. Tech startups the world over are showing they have incredible potential for growth, able to produce unprecendented wealth and jobs for the economies in which they are founded. Better support of innovation should mean narrow targeted policies that support these companies in their infancy and as they grow. Paying the R&D Tax Incentive quarterly, allowing better access to international talent via the 457 Visa replacement or Entrepreneur Visa, providing a modern regulatory framework around copyright and employee share schemes, and expanding the digital curriculum are all examples of positive policies to achieve that goal. Sarah Moran, CEO & Co-founder, Girl Geek Academy: Support in marketing innovation to a mainstream audience would be a really powerful step in helping to grow the startup industry. Treasurer Scott Morrison recently said that the sector needs to better communicate the benefits of new technology to the general population if we expect to see it thrive. And I agree. But generally, startups are working hard with limited budgets and limited experience in media and marketing strategies so support in this space in helping tell the innovation story would hugely benefit the industry. The stories that need telling are not only around the products themselves and generating more customers, but also about the industry as a whole the jobs its creating, the culture, and the potential for international scale. Its critical that universities and Federal Government help startups to generate these stories and get them in front of the students and graduates who startups want to hire, and the investors and businesses who want to support this important growth sector. Tanya Titman, Founder, Acceler8: Government should support innovative solutions that deliver more flexible work environments, which in turn drives and enables growth and innovation across all industry. Government should look outside the grant prism and reward small business that are working to establish innovative solutions within their own workplaces. For example, my accounting practice invested in an onsite childcare facility for staff to help more women re-enter the workforce. This innovative solution has not received any government funding and staff using the service do not qualify for any government rebates, despite spending a decade trying to bring this issue to the attention of state and federal government through grant applications and submissions to the productivity commission. To deliver this flexible work environment, my small business continues to subsidise the costs associated with this childcare centre to ensure staff can access the service at no extra expense to them. Sean McCreanor, Co-Founder, Assignar: The construction industry is ripe for innovation its an industry where productivity has been stagnant for a while and widespread use of construction technology is going to be essential to manage infrastructure projects. The Federal Government is one of the industrys main stakeholders and benefits from productivity improvements that decrease project time and costs. While the government announced $75 billion in infrastructure funding and financing from 2017-18 to 2026-27, theres an opportunity for the government to incentivise construction contractors to improve their productivity through technologies that strengthen field communication, manage multiple project components, collect reliable data and monitor safety and compliance. Jonas Lembke, Executive Creative Director, Atomic 212 Group: Heralding from the country that brought us Spotify, Skype and Minecraft, I believe the Federal Government could look to my fellow Swedes for a bit of inspiration when it comes to fostering innovation. The focus on generating intangible value, as opposed to governments initiatives predominantly directed towards growing tangible assets, is certainly more in tune with both the times we live in and the limitations of mother earth. Now, we dont have to replicate their entire social system, but we can take a few pointers from the way intangible qualities, such as education and connectivity, are a priority for their government in terms of creating a sustainable economy. Ultimately, Australia could benefit from looking at its infrastructure as well as the focus and nature of its education system, beyond traditional university structures. Rob Newman, CEO at Nearmap: In recent years, weve seen a lot of new government initiatives, aimed at boosting startups and innovation, roll out. While this is all positive, its important that regardless of government changes, there is consistent and sustained support for Australian businesses. Unfortunately, all too often a new administration will cancel old programs, rename others and introduce new ones. This lack of consistency is hindering the innovation and startup industry. Sometimes the best policy is in fact not to change policy. Australias innovation, tech and startup communities need policy consistency that continues across changes in leadership and changes in government. This is more important than simply releasing a new program every so often, and will ensure more employment opportunities for future generations of innovators. Sean Senvirtne, Founder & CEO, MyDeal.com.au: Innovation is underpinned by allowing the free market economy to prosper through promoting competition and incentivising investment. Lower business taxes, lower payroll tax, cheap and reliable energy and a flexible industrial relations system are all hallmarks of fostering innovation and growth. Reforms in these areas can give companies the freedom to be more agile, competitive and innovative. Brett Shanley, CEO & Founder, Study Loans: In order for the Federal Government to truly support innovation they need to adopt a grassroots approach. This means tackling innovation at an educational level, so theres greater encouragement for those looking to pursue alternative career paths. The governments recent funding cuts to VET courses like computer coding and the creative arts, shows a lack of encouragement in the very fields that bring about revolutionary thinking. But the government cannot be the sole provider of funding for education. To solve this problem, and better support innovation in Australia, we need to move towards a blended funding model for education of part government, part private and part corporate. Mark Gustowski, CEO, QUT Creative Enterprise Australia: The startup and investment community needs support through skills development, program development (e.g. more support for accelerators, incubators) and international channel development. Supporting further opportunities to trigger angel investment will also bring Australia closer to international precedence helping investors to see Australian startups as a more attractive alternative. At the moment, there is a funding gap across the Australian landscape for early stage and seed startups. These businesses often have to be more efficient with capital as being early stage ventures, often theyre having they need to finance themselves when starting out. Supporting angel investors financially will help to bridge that gap. Jennifer Maritz, CEO, Nvoi: The workforce is undoubtedly undergoing significant changes. We are seeing more jobs shift to a more contract basis allowing individuals to have better control of their work and lifestyle. The government needs to accommodate and support this contingent workforce. They should be considering ways to partner with a range of user groups to encourage or develop teaching methods that focus on developing skills required for the growing contingent workforce to foster innovation. They should also encourage employers to create contract roles where they can test these skills and hone their ability to deliver innovation. Mick Spencer, CEO, ONTHEGO: A key criteria on Government tenders and sourcing arrangements could be around innovation and the ability to provide an innovative solution. This would drive many companies to innovate to win Government business. Innovative companies are specialist resource intensive organisations so an allowance of special visas in key innovation categories could help drive innovation further (for example, we were very lucky to secure a Digital Marketing specialist who was living locally on a partner visa from Europe. Europe is widely acknowledged as being years ahead of Australia in ecommerce and he was able to drive our e-commerce innovations forward more rapidly than would have be otherwise possible). Innovative companies shouldnt be looking for a handout from the Australian Government, rather a marketplace where our innovations can be deployed back into drive the Government forward. This would provide an avenue for Aussie companies to return the support they have gained through grants and concessions back into the organisation that has help sponsored them. An idea would be an allocation/quota of government funds that set aside every year towards purchasing Australian innovations and deploying them into Government. Andrew Barnes Co-founder & CEO, GO1: There are two necessary conditions for successful and sustainable innovation: the first is the ability to think creatively and the second is the grit and skills required to execute on the idea. Continuing to ensure our education system values problem-solving abilities helps support the first. Then secondly, we should leverage the Australian culture of supporting mates to create ecosystems that can then help bring these ideas to fruition. David Jones, GM, Business Growth & Innovation, Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency (WREDA): Government at all levels should play an active role in nurturing and growing the ideas of entrepreneurs and innovators. New Zealands capital city, Wellington has become a hotbed of innovation with the Weta Group of companies making acclaimed movies, online accounting giant Xero taking on the world, and a thriving mixed reality sector which includes hologram specialists Point Zero who recently opened a branch in Brisbane. In Wellington, we focused on growing, developing and creating publicly supported programs that allow people to grow ideas into businesses. WREDA is the Regional Business Partner (RBP) tasked with making Wellington businesses innovate and grow through easy access to early stage business support. It helps businesses accelerate R&D programmes by evaluating innovation potential, accessing expert assistance, facilitating access to innovation development programmes and services, and guiding them through the grants process. WREDA subsidiary Creative HQ runs a range of accelerator programmes including the R9 Accelerator which fosters innovation within New Zealands government to make it easier for them to interact with businesses. Its one of the first programmes of its kind in the world and was a finalist in the NZ Innovation Awards 2016. The combined efforts of all levels of government has made Wellington home to New Zealands highest concentration of web-based and digital technology companies, and the South Pacifics leading Innovation hub. * https://www.globalinnovationindex.org About Lets Talk This exciting new, weekly initiative provides entrepreneurs and industry experts with a forum to share rapid-fire views on a range of issues that matter to start-ups and SMEs. Every Wednesday, we pose a themed question to a line-up of knowledgable industry figures, with a view to picking their brains for valuable insights to share with you, our readers. Serious weaknesses in the security protocol used for all modern protected Wi-Fi networks, both personal and enterprise, have been exposed by a Belgian researcher who warns cyber attackers can gain access to and manipulate sensitive data or even inject malware into a network. According to Mathy Vanhoef, a doctoral researcher in computer security from Leuven, Belgium, cyber attackers in close range of a victim can use what he refers to as a key reinstallation attack, also known as KRACK, to exploit serious weaknesses in WPA2. Attackers can use this novel attack technique to read information that was previously assumed to be safely encrypted, he explained in an online post. This can be abused to steal sensitive information such as credit card numbers, passwords, chat messages, emails, photos, and so on. Depending on the network configuration, it is also possible to inject and manipulate data. For example, an attacker might be able to inject ransomware or other malware into websites. The weaknesses are in the Wi-Fi standard itself, and not in individual products or implementations. Therefore, any correct implementation of WPA2 is likely affected. Vanhoef said Android, Linux, Apple, Windows, OpenBSD, MediaTek and Linksys products, amongst others, are all affected by some variant of the attacks. To prevent KRACKS, he said users must update affected products as soon as security updates become available. In a statement on the KRACK Wi-Fi exploit, McAfees Chief Technology Officer for APAC, Ian Yip said the risk was reduced somewhat by the fact that an attacker must be in the proximity of a victims wireless device or network. For example, an attacker cannot use this exploit to compromise a wireless network or device from an indeterminate location halfway across the world, he said. However, this is significant in that there is no readily available alternative, uncompromised protocol to use on a local wireless network until patches are deployed. We should note that while the exploit compromises wireless networks, point-to-point encryption between devices and websites or applications should still be secure. In the meantime, use physically connected wired access points where available. In the event you have to use a wireless network, behave as you would when using a public internet connection. Risks can be further mitigated by ensuring you access all websites over HTTPS where available, and use VPNs at all times. A Microsoft spokesperson told The Verge that the company had released a security update on 10 October to protect its customers from the exploit. Meanwhile, the same article noted Google would release a fix for its Pixel and other devices within the comings weeks. News / National by Staff reporter There is once again growing uneasiness in the market as the country has been hit by another shortage of cooking oil, which retailers blame on oil manufacturing companies - who are said to be selectively supplying a few "favoured" outlets.At the same time, the Oil Expressers Association of Zimbabwe (OEAZ) - a grouping of seven producers who supply 95 percent of the country's edible oils - has in return accused retailers of unjustifiably increasing the price of cooking oil to consumers.Consumers first experienced the shortage of cooking oil last month when they swamped shops after bond notes sharply lost their value against the United States dollar on the parallel market.Then, this coincided with the attendant shortages of fuel and drugs - which all evoked bad memories of the 2008 hyperinflationary era.Speaking to the Daily News yesterday, Confederation of Retailers president, Denford Mutashu, said retailers were not going to reduce their prices as the current crisis was not of their making."There are many retailers failing to get cooking oil. It's not being accessed by all retailers, but a few selected, chosen ones. Why are they (manufacturers) not making it open?"Let's not blame retailers. We have been supporting them (suppliers) well, but if they keep blaming us it is out of order. It's critical to look at things in their right perspective," Mutashu said."If there are retailers taking advantage, it simply means that there is no sufficient supply. That's the challenge we have in the country."We have a section that is failing to supply cooking oil in abundance, and which is trying to vindicate itself by blaming price increases on wholesalers and retailers. This business of shifting blame must stop," Mutashu added.Shortages of foreign currency have previously been cited by both retailers and the OEAZ, as a critical factor that is affecting production and supply.According to the OEAZ, at least $5 million is required weekly to import soya beans, crude edible oils and other raw materials to meet the national demand for cooking oil and other related products.But up to July 31, OEAZ members had only been receiving $2,2 million per week - or $8,8 million per month.Between August and September, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) slashed further its allocation to the industry per week to $1,5 million - worsening the national shortfall.The cooking oil shortages have been worsened by Statutory Instrument 64, which was imposed by the government last year, and which bans the importation of many basic consumer goods - including cooking oil, which was being supplied mainly by South African companies.Meanwhile, OEAZ has raised concerns over the retail price inconsistencies in the market, warning both wholesalers and retailers to exercise restraint."While it is understood that crude cooking oil and soya beans are globally priced commodities and subject to regional price changes, the OEAZ has noted with concern the inconsistent pricing that is obtaining in the distribution channel."We urge all members, as well as the distribution channel (wholesalers and retailers) to exercise restraint over price increases," it said over the weekend.Giving an update on the status of edible oil supplies, OEAZ admitted that the current situation was not ideal, and that it was making a consented effort to work with the ministry of Industry and Commerce, as well as the RBZ to improve the situation."The seven OEAZ members have a total installed capacity of 15 000 mt of edible oil per month, and can avert any product shortage, real or perceived, within 14 days, provided they access adequate foreign currency or credit line support for raw material procurement."The OEAZ will continue working with relevant authorities and stakeholders towards the development and strengthening of the soya value chain as part of the medium-to-long term solution to raw material supply challenges."This would contribute towards increasing agriculture production of soya beans, thereby reducing pressure on foreign currency demand to import this raw material in the coming years," it added."The ultimate goal of the OEAZ is to be export-competitive through the localisation of oil-seed production, re-tooling and economies of scale to supply valued-added products at affordable prices to consumers.," OEAZ said.Many companies, including those on the authorities' priority list which import raw materials, have almost given up on the RBZ route as approvals of their foreign currency applications are taking long to bear fruit.Zimbabwe is currently in the grip of a serious economic crisis which has resulted in severe cash shortages and the complete disappearance of US dollars from the formal market. News / National by Staff reporter PRESIDENT Robert and wife Grace were Monday set to leave the country headed for different destinations in another serious drain on an already overburdened fiscus.According to NewZimbabwe.com, Grace will represent her 93-year-old husband at a function where he will be honoured with some accolade in Russia."The First Lady will travel to Russia and represent the President at the World Federation of Democratic Youth (WFDY) set for Moscow. She will receive an award on his behalf and join youths from across the world," sources said.The 19th World Federation for Democratic Youths (WFDY) festival to be held in Sochi, Russia will according to State media recognise Mugabe as one of the four world leaders "who have spearheaded the fight against imperialism".Two weeks ago, WFDY president Nikolas Papadimitriou was in Harare accompanied by DRC youth league leader, Patrick Nkanga and two SWAPO (Namibia) youth leaders Naftau Kambunga and Ephraim Nekongo."The other leaders are Fidel Castro Ruz of Cuba, Chez Guevara of Argentina and the late Abdel Aziz of Western Saharawi," ZBC reported early this month.Zanu PF politburo secretary for youth Kudzai Chipanga is already in Russia for the event which kicked off at the weekend.The World Festival for Youths and Students is the biggest gathering of students convened by WFDY since 1947 when Africa was fighting colonialism and Europe was fighting fascism. News / National by Staff reporter A Harare magistrate yesterday dismissed an application for discharge filed by an exhibit officer based at CID Vehicle Theft Squad who reportedly swallowed $10 bribe money.Grace Tsingano, 35, is answering to criminal abuse of office charges before Harare magistrate Josephine Sande.She had applied for discharge at the close of the State case arguing that no prima facie case had been established against her.However, Sande ruled that the State had managed to prove through a statement from Zimbabwe's biggest mobile telecoms company, Econet, that Tsingano had received part of the bribe money through e-wallet payment system EcoCash.She said State witnesses had all testified that they saw Tsingano receiving the "trap bribe money" balance from a distance, hence there was need to put her to defence.Her defence case commences today. The complainant is the State represented by assistant inspector Stewart Rakabonga of Police General Headquarters Harare (PGHQ).Tsingano was responsible for booking exhibits and undertaking restoration - a process of regularising car engine or chassis number with the one that appears on the registration book.On March 7, Tsingano was at work when Mutama brought his Mazda 626 for change of ownership. It was discovered that the car's chassis number was not legible.The court heard that Mutama was ordered to fill a restoration form before being referred to Tsingano's office and submitted the papers. It was alleged that Tsingano went through Mutama's forms and advised him that she would impound his car and forfeit it to the State.She reportedly demanded $20 from Mutama for his car not to be impounded and he asked for her phone number to transfer the money via EcoCash.That same day Mutama advised PGHQ Internal Investigations department about the issue and a trap was set up on March 8.Mutama then contacted Tsingano who agreed to receive $11 through EcoCash and agreed that the balance of $10 would be settled after successfully changing ownership of the car.On March 8, Mutama returned to Tsingano in the company of "trap details" and handed over the $10 in two $5 denominations to the cop.After receiving the trap money, the detectives followed Tsingano to her office and a scuffle ensued as she resisted arrest.The court heard that Tsingano chewed the money and bolted out of the office.The trap money was never recovered but Tsingano was eventually arrested.Matimbe added that while in the boss' office, Tsingano was asked to surrender her phone since there were allegations that she had received the bribe via EcoCash."She stood up and bolted out of the office while other detectives pursued her. When she was caught, Tsingano squeezed the phone tightly, shattering the screen and nothing could be extracted from it," Matimbe added.The court heard that Tsingano had to be dragged back to office before being formally advised about her arrest. 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High school senior Christopher Ediger earned more than grades on a report card as he progressed through Colorados Aurora school district. He was the first student in the district to earn all five of its digital summit badges, representing his talents in areas such as collaboration, invention, and critical thinking. But earning those badges wasnt just something to show off on his college resume. They unlocked opportunities directly related to the working world: a hands-on tour of a mobile television company, a writing class at the American Museum of Western Art, and a three-week internship at a Denver architecture firm. The badges helped me understand that these are sought-after skills Im learning, Ediger said. Auroras digital badging program , which runs across P-12, also offers recognition for more granular skills, like analysis and organization. The effort offers one way that schools, employers, and groups working with students may need to adapt their approach to preparing students for the evolving work world. This future workplace is likely to be one that comes with rapidly changing technology and skill needs, according to a Pew Research Center study released earlier this year on the future of jobs and job training. The report cites a need for new ways to document employees evolving skills and their professional learning, pointing to the idea of credentialing as one way to accomplish it. The idea is that students, and employees, cant expect to earn a degree and be done with learning, said Justin Reich, the director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technologys Teaching Systems Lab, who was interviewed about the future of work for the Pew study. (Reich also writes an opinion blog hosted on edweek.org.) Were in an era of rapid technological and social change, Reich said. As a result, what people are being asked to do to be successful in the labor market is changing. There are many more expectations of learning skills throughout our lifetimes. What that will look like for K-12, higher education, and employers is varied. But the idea of credentialing is taking hold in some form in all those arenas. At the 40,000-student Aurora district, the digital badging program arose from within its college- and career-success department as a way to make students aware of skillslike collaboration and information literacythat businesses want from employees, while staying rooted in the Colorado Academic Standards. Building those badges and their requirements started with discussions with local employers, said Charles Dukes, the director of the college- and career-success department. The district consults with Colorado businesses, which they call endorsers, to make sure that the skills needed to earn a badge also matter in the workplace. We had to talk with companies to find out what the value of these badges would be, Dukes said. One industry might need more collaboration, and another might emphasize critical thinking. Students collect their badges in a digital backpack hosted on the credentialing platform Credly. Clicking on each badge allows a viewer to see artifacts that demonstrate a students proficiency in a specific areathat could be a video, an essay, or a blog entry, for example. Some wonder, however, if schools, with their more traditional, slow-to-innovate models, are best-suited to take on that type of endeavor to prepare students for an innovative workplace. The notion of moving from curricula to active learning is discussed a lot, but it really hasnt been accepted in K-12, said Jim Hendler, the director of the Rensselaer Institute for Data Exploration and Applications, who studies artificial intelligence and robots. A lot of things happening in after-school clubs seem more relevant to kids futures than what they do in the classroom. A pilot project in Chicago is highlighting how credentialing can be used outside of school walls to help students gain workforce skills. The initiative is based on work by the nonprofit organization LRNG , which created an open-badging and learning-platform program that fashioned digital credentials of all sorts and grouped them with learning experiences into playlists allowing users to progress through learning and earn employment opportunities. Right now, the way school is set up, the only learning that counts is what happens in school and the credentials that gives, said Connie Yowell, the CEO for LRNG. To keep up with shifts in the world of work, we have to be flexible and allow learning to happen in a variety of places, and for it to count. LRNG badges were used this summer in Chicago in the citys One Summer youth-employment program, aimed at low-income people ages 14 to 24. About 31,000 youths participated, working in jobs across the city, said Tracy Frizzell, the executive director of the Chicago-based Economic Awareness Council, which helped coordinate the program. As part of the Chicago project, LRNG created badges to help jobholderssome of whom were new to the workforcenavigate the process. Youth employees could earn badges for completing online playlists that showed them how to fill out paperwork, including tax forms and time sheets, or set up direct deposit for paychecks. This was a massive population of people who needed some critical basic information, Frizzell said. This was the best way to get this out in a large-scale manner in an effective way. Supervisors could check badges and see which employees had done their training. As an incentive to do the work to earn the badges, their recognition unlocked opportunities, such as a prime interview slot at a job fair, Frizzell said. But what gives value to a credential? Some districts have created worth around badges in different ways. The 4,100-student Kettle Moraine district in Wales, Wis., encourages teachers to earn professional-development microcredentials. District teachers can earn hundreds of dollars on top of their base pay for earning the badges. Other districts are doing similar work around microcredentials for professional trainingin fact, the advocacy organization Digital Promise has built a platform containing more than 200 such offerings that districts across the country can access. MITs Reich is not so sure, though, that employers will value the badges on a widespread basis. Who wants to have that kind of fine-grained information? Potential employers looking through a stack of 100 resumes are unlikely to look at those kinds of details, he said. But, he added, badges earned could be a factor when the decision is between a handful of applicants. Indeed, the Pew report on the future of work asks: Will employers be accepting of applicants who rely on new types of credentialing systems, or will they be viewed as less qualified than those who have attended traditional four-year and graduate programs? For technology giant IBM, badges are gaining traction as a viable way for applicants to show their experience and talents, said David Leaser, a senior program executive for innovation and growth initiatives there. The company is beginning to embrace credentialing as an alternative to a traditional degree. Were no longer focused on degrees; were focused on skills, Leaser said, noting that about 15 percent of IBMs U.S. hires dont have a bachelors degree. In part, that acceptance comes from IBMs own experience issuing credentials. IBM began a digital badging program in 2015 after realizing that its products were evolving more quickly than its standard training programs for users. "[Cloud-based technologies] had disrupted everything and changed the pace of technology to that point that the pace of change was outstripping the pace of learning, he said. Initially, IBM launched its training platform, now known as Cognitive Class , without badges, focusing instead on online courses. But the dropout rate was high, Leaser said. To encourage people to finish the courses and pass the associated exams, IBM introduced digital badges. After 60 days, the number of people using the site increased by 125 percent and the number completing exams to get a badge increased by 694 percent, he said. It was startling, he said. The badges, hosted on the Acclaim open badge platform, come with data that highlights the skills people have mastered, provides an overview of the course taken and date earned, and can be carried from job to job. One of the most important aspects of badges Leaser sees is the ability to provide a common language between industry and educational institutions. An IBM badge, earned by taking an online course, can now count toward college credit as well as for job skills. Now, we have a verifiable achievement that can be inspected, he said. Its providing this glue between industry and education institutions. Higher education is taking note. In the Colorado Community College System, officials are working with local manufacturing businesses to establish microcredentials that will be valuable to employers and also allow those already in the industry to earn them. We talked to the workforce first and then did a backwards design to build this into our program, said Katie Woodmansee, an instructional designer for the community college system. Advanced manufacturing companies like aerospace titan Boeing, for example, have many jobs that go unfilled because of lack of skills, she said. With Credly, students and job seekers can display their badges and link to them on resumes or applications. The community college system now has 80 badges available. Theres still work to do in terms of education and outreach, Woodmansee said. Some companies still dont know what it is. But the idea fits perfectly into what the future workplace is likely to look like. You dont necessarily need to go back to school for an entire degree to keep up, she said. But we have to build a robust rigor for the badges and make sure companies understand what theyre for. Jason Burchard, the visual- and design-arts instructor who worked with Aurora district senior Ediger on his badges, said he sees the value of badges increasing, as students begin to understand their benefits and employers see the rigor involved in earning them. Employers keep coming back to us and saying the students who earn these badges are really strong, he said. Thats giving it more traction outside the district. News / National by Stephen Jakes MDC-T President Morgan Tsvangirai has lifted the suspensions of two Standing Committee members, Organizing Secretary Abednigo Bhebhe and Deputy Treasurer General Mr. Charlton Hwende.Early on reports claimed that on Hwende had his suspension lifted.Tsvangirai's spokesperson Luke Tamborinyoka said the action by his master to rescind the suspensions will allow the party to focus on the key business of redirecting all energies towards voter registration and winning the elections next year."The two senior leaders were suspended following disturbances that took place at the party's Bulawayo provincial office in August 2017. Meanwhile, Vice President Thokozani Khupe yesterday paid a courtesy call on her boss, Tsvangirai, who returned home last Friday," he said. When an old dike needs to be reinforced, Dutch engineers make it higher and wider. But in the small town of Nieuw-Beijerland, they ran into a problem. There are small historic houses on top of the dike. So they pressed 17-metre metal sheets into the core of the dike and made some modifications to the buildings. Its part of the investment programme of Waterschap Hollandse Delta, the water authority at work to reinforce 66 km of primary dikes between the river Haringvlient and the river Meuse, in the south-west of the Province of Zuid-Holland. This and other investments in water and wastewater facilities are backed by a EUR 120 million loan granted in July 2016 by the European Investment Bank. The ground floor of the Het Wapen restaurant floods when the water rises, but its foundations are integrated into the dike and so is part of the water defence system that protects the whole town. Thats a sacrifice the owner Jan van den Berg made happily. Now that the dike has been reinforced, I feel safer, says van den Berg. Vital dikes Primary dikes are vital because they protect the land from overflows of rivers, canals and sea. They are periodically tested against the current flood safety standards. Dike stretches that do not meet these standards, are upgraded or reinforced, explains Aimilia Pistrika, an EIB engineer following the Waterschap Hollandse Deltas project. The dike reinforcement in Nieuw-Beijerland, which is in the Rotterdam metropolitan area and is one of the lowest points in the Netherlands, stabilises its structure against the pressure of the water and prevents water seeping through underneath. To avoid widening the base with earthworks, metal sheets are placed in the dikes core along its length. Steel is, of course, flexible, light and recyclable. Such solutions and safety standards were desperately lacking on 1 February 1953 when 1,800 Dutch people lost their lives in disastrous floods. The country thus embarked on a vast continuous Delta Plan to improve its flood defences. Meanwhile climate change has led to rising sea levels and more extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall. Nieuw-Beijerland lies in the heart of a delta region where the North Sea and the rivers Meuse, Rhine, and Waal converge. With rising sea levels to the west and increased river discharges from the east, the risk of flooding is very high. If the sea comes in and the river cannot go out, were in trouble, says Roeland van Woerkom, programme manager for flood protection at Waterboard Hollandse Delta. Every six years the water authority reassesses the dikes of the region against the flood protection standards and, if necessary, upgrades the dikes. The risk is always there, so we must be on top of safety and maintenance all the time to protect our people, says van Woerkom. Let the water come Water security is indeed about learning to cope with an acceptable level of risk. Climate change has increased this risk and generated more uncertainty than water managers have traditionally had to deal with. Waterschap Hollandse Delta is one of the largest water authorities in the Netherlands, covering some 1,000 square kilometres where 870,000 people live. The Dutch water authorities are the oldest administrative bodies in the country, dating back to the 13th century, but also the most modern. From a peak of 3,500, they have been merged to 22 nationwide. Since the planning in 2007, Waterschap Hollandse Delta has already reinforced nearly all of the planned 66 km of primary dikes. These works, including maintaining and improving canals, ditches, sluices and locks, represent 70% of the investments - EUR 180 million - covered by the EIB loan. We informed the residents about possible solutions for the reinforcement of the dike and discussed with them how they could keep the inconvenience to a minimum, says van Woerkom. The rest of the investment - about EUR 90 million - concerns some renovation and maintenance works at Sluisjesdijk sludge treatment plant and Dokhaven wastewater plant, including pipelines and pumping stations to safeguard fresh water on Voorne and Goeree-Overflakkee islands. All these works are part of the National Delta programme under which Dutch cities are preparing for the future. For Nieuw-Beijerland, climate change is an opportunity to make the town safer and more resilient to floods. The residents can rely on the reinforced dikes at least until 2050. News / National by Ndou Paul Movement for Democratic Change Vice President Thokozani Khupe yesterday paid a courtesy call on her boss, Morgan Tsvangirai, who returned home last Friday.Tsvangirai's arrival time was a closely guarded secret, as the MDC-T did not want journalists to swarm the airport to see his state of health.The former Premier was airlifted to South Africa after he fell sick at a strategic workshop in Kadoma last month.He has been recuperating in the neighbouring country after his release from hospital.Tsvangirai is seriously ill and may not be able to lead his Movement for Democratic Change party at next year's elections.This was said in a post written by veteran MDC MP Eddie Cross on Monday. Opinion / Columnist "Heal Zimbabwe Trust (HZT) through its resident human rights monitors in all the country's 10 provinces is monitoring the environment during the voter registration exercise. This is being done with the objective of monitoring the environment and report on any cases of human rights violations during the process as well as making referrals where possible for redress. In 2016, HZT established an early warning and early response system for easy detection and response to cases of human rights violations," reported the Trust.This is just madness, the very fact that HZT expects human rights violation during the voter registration exercise is proof we have a serious sick society that needs healing. What HZT is doing and has been doing with its "13 Million Voices for Peace" campaigns is not healing the nation but more like giving a placebo pain killer to someone with a broken leg! It is not working!"Gokwe Nembudziya ward 24 On 09 October 2017, ZANU PF ward chairperson Christopher Matsike announced to people who were registering to vote at Ukomo Primary school that they should submit serial numbers of the registration slips to him," reported HZT. The report listed 15 more similar incidences. There is no doubt that this is just the ears of the hippo the rest of the beast is hidden in the muddy water. What will it take for HZT to finally admit that "early warning and early response system" is not only a waste of time and money but worse still it is giving our people false hope of free, fair and credible elections only to see their hopes dashed again and again.What we need is to acknowledge that our state institutions have been captured by President Mugabe and his Zanu PF cronies for the sole purpose of establishing and retaining the de facto one-party, Zanu PF, dictatorship. The whole electoral process has been reorganised to deliver President Mugabe's no-regime-change mantra at the expense of the individual right to free, fair and credible elections.Other than report that Zanu PF Gokwe Nembudziya ward 24 chairperson, Christopher Matsike, asked villagers to give him the serial numbers of their voter registration slips; there is little else HZT can do. What we need is to implement the democratic reforms designed to free the state institutions like the Police to arrest and charge Matsike for threatening to undermine the individual right of the villagers to free, fair and credible elections.SADC leaders advised Tsvangirai and his MDC friends and the people of Zimbabwe at large not to contest the July 2013 elections without implementing the reforms first."If you go into elections next month, you are going to lose; the elections are done," SADC leaders warned.Sadly, MDC leaders did not listen and dragged the nation into a totally meaningless electoral process with the disastrous consequences we can see today as Zanu PF blatantly rig the vote, consolidated its dictatorial strangle on the state institutions and the opportunity to implement the democratic reforms was lost.The country has a chance to revisit the reforms if we demand their implementation before the elections. By contesting the elections again with no reforms MDC and the rest in the opposition camp are undermining the clarion call for "No reform, no elections!" And organisation like HZT have no business encouraging ordinary people to take part in these flawed and illegal elections on the false promise that the Trust's activities are a substitute to what statutory bodies like the Police should do. Heal Zimbabwe Trust is not Republic of Zimbabwe Police and will never be, so stop masquerading as one! The US president has spoken. In a hostile statement reminiscent of George W. Bushs Axis of Evil speech president Trump has refused to certify the Iran nuclear deal, the JCPOA. The deal will now go to Congress who have until December 14th to decide whether or not to re-impose sanctions, lifted after the JCPOAs implementation. This may not happen immediately as the president proposed certain US-defined triggers, most of which are outside the provisions of the deal. Consequently, the US will not exit the deal, at least not now, but will increase its pressure on Iran, including by sanctioning the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Core (IRGC), Irans powerful military and security organisation. In addition to rebuking to Iran, the presidents speech could also be interpreted as a way to pressure the deals other signatories (China, France, Germany, Russia, the UK and the EU) to renegotiating and fixing what president Trump perceived was wrong with the deal. The leaders of the three European signatories, France, Germany and the UK, who have had longstanding negotiations with Iran, were quick to respond. Together Macron, May and Merkel stated: We stand committed to the JCPOA and its full implementation by all sides. Preserving the JCPOA is in our shared national security interest. They called on the US to consider the implications to the security of the US and its allies before re-imposing sanctions. While the Europeans have objected to any renegotiation of the deal, the leaders expressed willingness to address, together with the US, issues outside the JCPOA, such as Irans ballistic missile program and its regional activities. Even if sanctions are not immediately introduced and the JCPOA doesnt unravel straight away, two key players, the EU and the US, are on the opposing sides of the dispute. The uncertainty surrounding the JCPOA has damaged transatlantic relations and harmed collective security. It has also badly undermined the efficacy and credibility of nuclear diplomacy and nuclear multilateralism. If Iran is complying with the terms of the nuclear agreement but the US decides not to confirm it, why should North Korea sign up to a similar diplomatic agreement constraining its own nuclear capabilities, knowing that the US might renege at any time? When the possibility of a nuclear war is no longer distant and unimaginable, ending an accord which enhances non-proliferation is not a trivial loss to global security. Moreover focusing on the sunset clauses of the deal and claiming that Iran will restart its nuclear program after these expire, distorts what the JCPOA was realistically able to achieve. Iran is a non-nuclear state under the terms of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and will continue to be so after the JCPOA ends. If this is not enough, the focus of the criticism should be the NPT, not the JCPOA. The JCPOA is a unique and valuable multilateral accord which was supported by all five of the permanent Security Council members. There were disagreements during the negotiations but in the end consensus prevailed. Although Iran was following the rules of the agreement, as confirmed by the IAEA, the consensus has now been broken by the USs unilateral decision. Collective security is another loser with this decision. The US and its European partners are bound together in a security alliance where an attack on one is an attack on all. Unilateral actions by the US are undermining shared security efforts. According to Nikki Haley, the US ambassador to the United Nations, the JCPOA is about US national security, this is not about European security. This distinction between the US and European security undermines the transatlantic link, the backbone of the NATO alliance, as well as to the EUs foreign and security policy. The Iran deal could also be deemed a (fragile) confidence-building measure, which not only prevents Iran from accessing nuclear weapons, but also presents the opportunity to overcome decades of hostility between the US and Iran. While the current US administration claims that the agreement has not improved the US-Iran relations, there were, during the negotiations, unique moments of close contact: a phone call between presidents Obama and Rouhani, a stroll in Geneva by the foreign ministers Zarif and Kerry. This should not be forgotten when judging the overall impact of the JCPOA. Under the current administration however, any improvement in relations has been lost. Destroying the JCPOA would not only further damage bilateral and transatlantic relations but also to international and collective security. It would also undermine further efforts on nuclear diplomacy. In the end, the deal was intended to prevent a state from acquiring nuclear weapons. At a time of great insecurity and growing nuclear crises, JCPOA should not be dismissed for what it was not designed to do but preserved and fought for what it can. The opinions articulated above represent the views of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Leadership Network or any of its members. The ELNs aim is to encourage debates that will help develop Europes capacity to address the pressing foreign, defence, and security challenges of our time. After a months-long review process, the White House finally published its new strategy on Iran last Friday. Shortly afterwards, US president Donald Trump delivered a speech where he, as expected, claimed that Tehran had violated both the letter and the spirit of the multilateral agreement over its nuclear programme, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA). While he formally stuck to the JCPoA, he urged Congress to fix the flaws of it as he sees them. Otherwise he would withdraw from it in due course, using his executive powers. From a broader perspective, the US administrations new Iran policy is designed to comprehensively counter Irans influence in the Middle East, a goal that is widely shared among decision-makers in Washington. Trumps announcements thus raise some crucial questions that Europeans will have to address and that go far beyond the atomic dossier. Which Iran-policy do EU member states, not least France, Great Britain and Germany, wish to pursue and how are they going to deal with a US-policy that is based on confrontation vis-a-vis Tehran? The nuclear deal with Iran and the wars in Syria and Yemen are enmeshed with domestic power struggles in and around the Persian Gulf. Moreover, the emergence of these and other battle fields where Iran and Arab Gulf states, chief among them Saudi-Arabia, fight for regional dominance have increasingly blurred the lines between counter-terrorism, the oppression of political opponents, and more traditional interstate rivalry. For instance, the Houthis in Yemen have fired rockets both onto Saudi territory and towards US warships thus posing a military threat to Riyadh as well as to the American navy. However, whether they should be labelled terrorists or instead ought to be seen as a party to a domestic power struggle is a political judgment. The outline of Trumps Iran-policy indicates that the United States will most likely be drawn closer into these battles. Earlier in 2017, the Trump administration signalled its willingness to step-up its support for the Saudi-led military campaign against the Houthis in Yemen. Unlike Obama, President Trump adopted the viewpoint that Yemen is a key location to confront Iran and its proxies. (1) At the same time, Trump has so far not demonstrated much interest in diplomatically contributing to ending the war in Yemen. Other conflicts in the Persian Gulf, which have almost been forgotten today, might also be rekindled. In 2011, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates sent military and police forces to Bahrain to contain and defeat an uprising of mostly Shiite opposition groups against the Sunni monarchy. As the Shia population is the majority, the small Gulf state is a prime arena for Saudi-Iranian contest via proxies. Six years ago, Washington refrained from direct political or even military interventions in Bahrain. It is quite possible that Trump would intervene much more forcefully in support of Riyadh should tensions flare up again. The EU and its member states will therefore have to know how position themselves to address further regional conflicts in the Middle East. Americas new Iran policy also raises the issue of where to focus the common fight against terrorism. In September 2014 Obama initiated a global coalition against the Islamic State which also includes all of the six countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, and which Trump continues to rely upon. The new Iran strategy is based on the explicit assumption that Washington has for the past 15 years focussed too much on Sunni extremist organizations and needs to more aggressively target Iranian Shia proxies. This is very much aligned with Saudi Arabias perspective. Riyadh has long advocated broadening the scope of the fight against terrorism. In December 2015 it launched its own initiative with this in mind, namely the Islamic Military Alliance. Whilst also tackling IS, it was meant to target any group or militia that threatens the alliances members. The EU and its member countries need to be clear that they do not wish to be drawn into the proxy battles between Saudi Arabia and Iran and will have to stay focused on tackling Al-Qaida and IS. These are the most central and immediate terrorism threats to both Europe and the United States. EUs strong interest in keeping the JCPoA afloat will increase pressure on the Europeans to align more closely with the US on the non-nuclear policy aspects. Most immediately, as Trump already stated, Washington will pressure allies to strengthen economic sanctions that are outside the scope of the nuclear agreement. The US Congress has followed this path and American policymakers have announced that they want to further increase economic pressure on Tehran. The EU must now decide to what extent it is willing and able to follow suit. There is consensus within the EU that channels of dialogue must be kept open, including with Iran, to deal with the war in Syria. A US-policy that is exclusively based on isolating Iran will not be supported by most European allies. So far it is not yet clear how the Trump Administrations Iran-strategy will be translated into concrete policy and changes in military posture. For France, Great Britain, Germany and other interested EU states, the announcement of the strategy is a turning point which will force them to address regional implications which go beyond the nuclear agreement. (1) Obama however sent Special Forces and armed drones to fight Al-Qaida and supported the Saudis with weapons, logistics and intelligence. The opinions articulated above represent the views of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Leadership Network or any of its members. The ELNs aim is to encourage debates that will help develop Europes capacity to address the pressing foreign, defence, and security challenges of our time. Kuma's, Which Used To Proclaim 'No Vegan Options,' Now Serving Impossible 'Bleeding' Burger By Stephen Gossett in Food on Oct 16, 2017 9:33PM The iconic burger joint that once boldly advertised "THERE ARE NO VEGAN OPTIONS ON KUMA'S MENU" right on its list of dishes has done the impossible... by going Impossible. Yes, Kuma's Corner, long-running purveyors of metal-themed meat comas, officially has a vegan-entree option for the first time. All Kuma's locations now serve the Impossible Burger, the in-vogue (no complaints there) patty that aims to mimic the appearance and flavor of beef, right down to its juicy "bleed." The Impossible Burger at Kuma's is served on a vegan pretzel bun with vegan cheese and mayo also available. Kuma's Corner posted the announcement on Monday on Facebook: "Kuma's has been creating burgers for and with bands for over 10 years now. We set out to pay homage to the world of metal music to the best of our abilities. Under many circumstances, members of these bands are vegetarian and vegan. So, to properly honor everyone involved, Kumas will offer our first vegan-friendly burger option..." The Impossible Burgerwhich has also popped up at Umami Burger and M Burger this yeargets its signature "bleed" from heme, a plant-extracted compound. Other ingredients include wheat protein, coconut oil and potato protein, according to the Impossible Burger website. (Earlier this year Epic Burger started serving the Beyond Burger, which uses pea protein and beet juice to get its "bleed.") The Impossible Burger made its Kuma's debut today at all four Chicago-area locations. An employee at the original location, in Avondale, told Chicagoist that, yes, the menus have been updated. Despite a small handful of predictably reactionary posts on Kuma's Facebook announcement, this is of course excellent news. No reason to not provide an option if possible, especially one that we've seen garner kudos for hitting the meat-esque mark pretty well. And even approached from the narrowest terms, there's no denying that plenty of metal folks are indeed vegan. Cue the Cattle Decapitation! Starting today, Kuma's added the Converge, in honor of the Massachusetts metalcore titans who have a new record due out on November 3. It features cherry tomato jam, avocado mash, vegan cheddar, vegan roasted garlic mayo, baby arugula and red onion piled onyou guessed itthe Impossible Burger. [H/T Eater Chicago] tickooo said: Folks, need help. I am 40, hold a Bachelor of Engineering (4 year) from India and around 14 years of experience. My wife is 38, also holds a bachleors and has around 8 years of experience from India as well. I have Australian PR but leaning towards Canada because of its proximity to the US. In the express entry I am not getting enough points because of age and just the bachelors degree. Is express entry still acheivable for me? How can I increase my numbers and get the express entry. Would appreciate some guidance. Please advise. Click to expand... Since I could not send any private message to you, I am posting my query here.Dear tickoooI saw your post on Canada Forum and was intrigued to know why are you interested to move from Australia to Canada. I have stayed in USA and Australia and like the Australian lifestyle and culture more than the American one.My reason to know is that, Having already applied for Australian PR, I am now considering applying to Canada also because the Australian PR is getting delayed and my IELTS Score is expiring soon so I want to have a backup in Canada without having to take IELTS again.At the same time, the more I research on Canada, I feel that the Canadian Economy is doing much better than the Australian Economy (regardless of the fact that it depends hugely on US Economy). So, I am thinking, if I can tolerate the Canadian cold winters, then Canada can also be a good option for the long term.I can understand you might feel uncomfortable in sharing your personal decisions with me but I really want to know few basic reasons why you prefer Canada over Australia.Thanks in Advance.AnkitAre you living in USA currently?Wherever you are living, have you earned some assets? Hi I have a friend who has overstayed residence visa for a year for some reasons. Now he wants to go back to his home country but he has no money to pay the fines, now my question is if i provide him with a plane ticket to his country and he surrenders to immigration will he be jailed if he dont pay the fines or will they let him go to his country since he has ticket..please help need advice Thanks Hey Ram1957 I been coming to the Philippines for 12 years now. I was married to a filipino. Every time we were going to visit her family she would tell me we need to bring something because they expect us to. I understand going to a party and a gathering to bring something like food. Also the first time I ever came to the Philippines I was told I need to bring gifts for them. So I assumed that was the way they expected it. 4 years ago I came there to see my GF. Her brother and his GF ask if I wanted to go to the movies. I told them sure I could go. We had to travel from Tagum to Davao. We met them at the theater in Davao and my GF and I got in line to get our tickets. Her brother and GF stood over by the wall. I said aren't they going to come over and get their tickets. She said I was suppose to buy the tickets for them. I said why am I suppose to by the tickets when they ask me if I wanted to go to the movies. My GF said I needed to by them. So I bought 4 movie tickets. I have never heard of that happening in my country. That to me was completely wrong of them to expect me to buy tickets without even asking me if i could. art Gary D said: It's been 30 days for some years now. Can be upped to 59 days at the airport on arrival. Can be slightly cheaper to get from home before you leave. Also if you can't get the extension at the airport on arrival, office closed etc. saves you possibly a day going out of your way in the Philippines. Click to expand... Agree Gary and Dave. If we stay more than the now 30 day free visa I extend at the airport when we land, done this twice now and about PHP 2.5k from my ailing memory. We generally arrive early evening and their office has always been open.Just a suggestion though, as we always arrive back with 10 to 15k in pesos from the previous trip for taxi, incidentals etc until we get to our BDO branch, the first time I extended my visa at the airport we only had 500 peso notes and they had no change (interesting for a government department dealing with revenue) and definitely got the feeling that I was supposed to say keep the change,,,,, some 400 odd pesos, on principle I sat and waited for my change, eventually Bengie went out of their office and broke a note so we could give the correct money after 20 minutes of waiting, and no they don't accept credit or debit cards, take pesos with some small denominations so you can expedite the process. Second time we were wiser and in and out in 5 minutes.Have to add here that on a couple of other occasions I have overstayed my 30 day visa by 2 days and was not pulled up, lucky maybe.Cheers, Steve. As per most states when you exchange your out of state or out of country driving licence for a licence for the state you now live in, you must take a driving test, undertake some form of written test and pay for the privilege.Read the part regarding "drivers from other countries" While European citizens wanting to move to the UK to work are concerned about their future after Brexit, new research suggest that lower skilled workers will not actually be needed.Much has been made from business in certain sectors such as hospitality, tourism and logistics, that they are going to suffer a shortage of staff if workers are not able to come from European Union countries, particularly from Eastern European countries.However, a new report from think tank Migration Watch UK suggests that the need for ever more EU workers in the UK has been greatly exaggerated. Business demands for a continuing free for all are often, in effect, calls for an ever growing quantity of cheap migrant labour from the EU, it says.The research paper finds no evidence that continued large flows are needed to maintain the stock of migrants in lower skilled work. Indeed, there appears to be little movement out of lower skilled sectors even for people who first arrived as long ago as 2010.In any case, the report argues that even zero net migration would allow the existing stock of workers to be maintained at its current level since those replacing any workers who did leave would not add to net migration. In effect this would amount to a one in, one out scenario.The significance of EU workers to particular sectors depends not only on their number but also on their proportion in the sector. This is often low. Where the proportion is high, the actual numbers involved can be quite small, it points out.The recent record employment rates for UK born workers result from growth in part time work and self-employment while there are still more than 1.5 million unemployed in the UK and over a million part time workers who want but cannot find a full time job, it also points out.It adds that some industry claims may simply reflect a desire by employers to continue to provide low pay, poor conditions and little flexibility. Indeed many employers are being subsidised by the taxpayer to employ migrants from the EU.It says that the working age benefit bill for EU migrants in the UK in 2014/2015 was 4.4 billion, that is 12 million a day. It could now have risen further as the number of lower paid EU migrants has risen substantially since free movement was fully extended to Romania and Bulgaria.The Government must insist that claims that we need an endless flow of workers from the EU to fill lower skilled jobs are gone over with a fine toothcomb, said Lord Green of Deddington, chairman of Migration Watch UK.Highly skilled workers are, of course, valuable but some employers have been making huge profits from cheap labour, leaving the rest of society to cope with the consequences for housing, public services and the cost of in-work benefits. Brexit must put a stop to this, he added. Take A Look Inside The Plans To Lure Amazon HQ2 To The Michael Reese Hospital Site By Stephen Gossett in News on Oct 17, 2017 4:10PM The long-vacant Michael Reese Hospital site has been bandied about as a potential landing spot for Amazon's uber-coveted second headquarters. Now, developers have officially unveiled visuals of plans for the sprawling multi-acre site and publicly made known their desire to bring HQ2 to the Bronzeville space. A development team that includes Farpoint Development and Draper & Kramer is negotiating to buy the site for $144 million, the city announced in June. The team announced plans for tech-focused commercial space, retail, housing, a hotel and a logistics center to help with McCormick Place traffic. Now we have renderings to pair with the vision. Some 140 acres are up for transformation. The concept could also be remolded to better fit Amazon's requirements if necessary. "The most important thing is to get Amazon to Chicago, which would be a boom for everyone," Scott Goodman, of Farpoint, told the Tribune. So what do you think, Mr. Bezos? The Reese site has been a magnet for big-idea projections more or less since 2009, when the city of Chicago bought the property with ultimately stymied visions of Olympic rings dancing in its head. (Bronzeville activists worked to shift attention from the city's the failed Olympic bid to advocate against a lack of affordable housing.) But Amazon or no, it's an interesting glimpse at what the powers that be have in mind. That Michael Reese hospital site has had many imaginary lives: the Obama Library, an Olympic Village, the Lucas museum, now an Amazon HQ https://t.co/MLxCVlFiej Emily Badger (@emilymbadger) October 16, 2017 Chicago officially filed its bid for Amazon's HQ2 on Monday but didn't disclose any incentives it might have put on the table or cite any location candidates. Other likely contenders include the in-revamp Old Main Post Office and the old Finkl Steel site, now rebranded by developers as Lincoln Yards. Almost two months after Hurricane Harvey hit the Texas coast, residents still are registering for federal disaster assistance and they should hurry, Federal Emgergency Management Agency officials warn, because theres an Oct. 24 deadline. The road to recovery is going to be long and hard for the state of Texas, said Pamela Saulsby, a FEMA representative. The devastation was so widespread. From Saturday to Sunday alone, the agency received more than 500 new registrations, bringing the total in Texas to 873,977. On some days last week, new registrations numbered more than 1,000. Saulsby said housing is FEMAs top priority, though the agency also is helping with medical, dental and funeral expenses caused by Harvey, which hit the Port Aransas and Rockport area on Aug. 25 and then hovered over Houston and East Texas, dumping record amounts of rainfall. Altogether, FEMA officials have approved more than $1.1 billion to assist people in Texas, Saulsby said. Because it was an unprecedented storm, it requires an unprecedented response, she said. And that means looking at housing solutions in creative ways. The statewide tally for help with adequate housing reached $924.9 million as of Sunday, either in vouchers for hotel rooms or other temporary housing solutions, or with grants to repair or replace homes. Last week, Saulsby said, 57,828 people displaced by Harvey were staying in FEMA-supported hotel rooms. FEMA funding for those rooms also expires on Oct. 24. In anticipation of the states needs, 1,178 manufactured housing units a combination of travel trailers and mobile homes were counted in the Texas General Land Office inventory Monday morning, and that number could grow depending on need, she said, although only 30 such units have been assigned to Texas families so far. How long it takes residents to receive the aid is decided case by case, with some requests taking time to process and others handled more immediately, Saulsby said. FEMA doesnt want people impacted by the storm to forget that it is a tool and it has resources to help people recover, she said. But it all begins with registration. FEMA registrations and funding by county FEMA has approved tens of millions of dollars to residents affected by Hurricane Harvey, which hit the Texas coast on Aug. 25 before turning into a tropical storm. It produced record-breaking rainfall in the Houston area and East Texas. As registrations and requests for funding continue to pile on in affected Texas counties, FEMA has set an Oct. 24 deadline for registering through the agency. Check out the amounts approved by FEMA through Oct. 14 for each county on this map. Harris County, which was hit with up to 61 inches of rain, racked up hundreds of millions of dollars of federal funding the most of all disaster-affected Texas counties. While Bexar County did not qualify as a disaster area, many of its neighbors were, including DeWitt, Gonzales and Bastrop counties. The state received a grant from FEMA to contract out free crisis counseling, which is available at several of its disaster recovery centers and at shelters in and around Harris county. The agencys nine centers had seen 113,961 visits total, with a surge of 1,168 new visits Saturday and Sunday. These are resources that are available to people that have been impacted. We dont want the deadline to come and go and people to not take advantage of opportunities for vouchers or grants, which dont require pay back, or even loans through the Small Business Administration, Saulsby said. Any and all of these things can help an individual rebuild their lives back after such a devastating hurricane. sfosterfrau@express-news.net; Twitter: @SilviaElenaFF This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The semitruck driver who transported dozens of immigrants in his sweltering trailer this summer from Laredo to San Antonio where police arrested him in a Walmart parking lot and later charged him in the deaths of 10 of the immigrants pleaded guilty Monday to smuggling. James Matthew Bradley, 61, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to transport aliens resulting in death and one count of transporting aliens resulting in death. He faces up to life in prison when hes sentenced by a federal judge in January. On July 23, police responding to a call found the trailer in the parking lot of the Walmart on the South Side. Eight of the 39 undocumented immigrants at the scene were dead, and two later succumbed to heat-related injuries. The dead were from Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico. Police found Bradley in the cab, along with a Derringer gun, ammunition and $5,643 in cash, prosecutors revealed Monday. Immigrants interviewed by investigators said that anywhere from 70 to 200 people were crowded into the overheated trailer, with only one small vent for air, according to previous court documents. In a recording of Bradleys plea hearing, prosecutor Christina Playton said immigrants in the trailer told investigators there had been 70 to 100 people in the trailer. And when Bradley pulled the rig into the parking lot, the truck was being followed by seven vehicles, including vans and SUVs, Playton said. When Bradley stopped, a man from one of the vehicles opened the rear trailer door and the aliens began to jump out of the vehicle trailer, Playton said at the hearing. Some of the aliens entered the waiting vehicles and were driven away. Others ran away from the truck into the bushes. Others staggered around and eventually fell to the ground. The recording also revealed that Bradleys assistant federal public defender, Alfredo Villarreal, said Bradley provided information about the smuggling ring to investigators during at least six interviews, a reason his plea deal was sealed. His information led to charges against one alleged smuggler who remains in custody, records show. As part of the plea deal, Bradley agreed to forfeit the Peterbilt truck and the trailer, the cash and the gun and ammo, Playton said, according to the recording. Todays admission of guilt by Mr. Bradley helps to close the door on one of the conspirators responsible for causing the tragic loss of life and wreaking havoc on those who survived this horrific incident, said Shane M. Folden, the special agent in charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcements Homeland Security Investigations in San Antonio. This case is a glaring reminder that alien smugglers are driven by greed and have little regard for the health and well-being of their human cargo, which can prove to be a deadly combination. Bradley was one of two people charged in the case. Pedro Silva Segura, 46, was arrested in Laredo the day after the trailer was discovered on charges that he harbored immigrants in a safe house in that city. But it wasnt until last month that he was indicted in the same case as Bradley in San Antonio. Silva could face the death penalty if convicted of conspiracy to transport and harbor undocumented immigrants for financial gain resulting in death and up to 20 years in prison if convicted of transporting and harboring undocumented aliens for financial gain resulting in serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy. Prosecutors in Laredo have dismissed the charges there, and Silva is awaiting transfer to San Antonio, where hell face harsher potential penalties. Federal officials meanwhile have shut down the Iowa trucking company that hired Bradley. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued an out-of-service order last week to Pyle Transportation after a review found that the companys safety rating was so unsatisfactory that it was unfit to remain in business. Pyle Transportation owner Brian Pyle has denied knowledge of the alleged smuggling conspiracy. He has said he sold the trailer and hired Bradley, who had worked previously for the company, as a contractor to drive it to Brownsville to deliver it to the buyer. Federal regulators launched a compliance review into the company, which had been operating with a conditional safety rating because of prior violations, after the human trafficking case. Earlier this month, authorities identified the 10th victim as Flabio Cambo, 32, of Ecuador. Cambo, whose family in Ecuador had reported him missing, was carrying documents identifying him as being from Mexico, said Ruth Maria Duenas de Garcia, Ecuadors consul general in Houston. Authorities were able to compare photos of Cambo with the unidentified victim and confirm that it was him, Duenas said. An earlier version of this story said the Bradley plea hearing was closed. His plea was issued in open court. jbuch@express-news.net | Twitter: @jlbuch The Associated Press contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The hurried pace of travelers slows when they see Claudia and Jason Fisch strolling through the San Antonio International Airport with Cha Cha. Most passers-by who spy the friendly tail-wagging pooch stop for a few minutes, setting aside worries about connecting flights, power-hungry cellphones and the woes of everyday life. On a recent afternoon, 1-year-old Kennedy Haire toddled across the glossy, buffed floor for a closer glimpse of the 9-year-old beagle mix. Her parents, Tommy and Shajuanne Haire, watched near ticket kiosks, as Jason Fisch asked if Kennedy would like to pet Cha Cha. Her 7-year-old sister, Chase-Madison, joined her as they ran their hands through the dogs fur. Just to have the experience with the dog is relaxing, Tommy Haire said as his wife knelt beside their daughters. And that theyre able to relate to everyone, thats amazing. Their grandmother, Cynthia Hickman, agreed. Its just adorable, she said before she headed for a flight home to Chicago. Its a nice little icebreaker. The Fisches and Cha Cha are members of the Pups and Planes program, sponsored by the San Antonio International Airport Ambassador Program. The ambassadors answer questions, pass out information brochures and ease the stress of those anxious about flying. According to USA Today, the first airport therapy dog program started at Mineta San Jose International Airport in 2001, with a volunteer and her certified therapy dog, Orion. By 2013, more than 20 cities, including San Antonio, had adopted the program. The initiative started here with 12 dogs of different breeds, including a pug and a Doberman pinscher. Currently, they have 10 dogs that have undergone four hours of training and work a minimum of two hours a week. The ambassador program started in 2000 with 12 volunteers; now there are 180 ambassadors. They work a minimum of four hours per week, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Last year, the ambassadors volunteered more than 32,000 hours to assist more than 300,000 travelers coming through the airport. The volunteers range in age from 20 to 90 and their Western garb makes it easy for them stand out: white-collared shirt or blouse, khaki pants, denim vest and a white cowboy hat. The pups all wear blue neckerchiefs with the programs name in white letters. Many ambassadors have other jobs; theyre active-duty members of the military, librarians, nurses or students. Benjamin Bott, a UPS pilot, adopted Helo, a Belgian Malinois, four years ago. He volunteered for the program after he saw how mellow Helo was around people. We get to meet people from all walks of life, Bott, 55, said. Jennifer Young, a Navy reservist, and Whiskers, a mixed breed, have been with the Pups and Planes program since it began. The duo is used to folks snapping their photos on cellphones when the dog, sporting a small cowboy hat, slaps her paw against Youngs palm for a high-five. Young adopted Whiskers from the Animal Defense League of Texas when she was a puppy. Whiskers presence has soothed anxious passengers, including helping several children relax during a six-hour layover. Thats what its all about, Young, 52, said as a young girl hugged Whiskers near a baggage claim carousel. Shes very calming. Clay White, a senior customer experience analyst with the airport, said the ambassadors work is a testament to how the airport helps the traveling public. White said there are plans to offer students attending high school and college a chance to earn volunteer hours and give them experience in aviation and the travel industry. Special activities coordinator/ambassador program coordinator Christina Foley said the team has a therapeutic effect on passengers. The handlers, pups and fellow ambassadors have seen their share of intimate moments within the terminal walls. Foley said more than one volunteer has had to dab tears from their eyes after witnessing emotional reunions, bittersweet farewells and surprise marriage proposals. Jason Fisch, 43, said the dogs have been trained for a range of scenarios to help people experiencing the highs and lows of life. He said Cha Cha, a Paws for Service therapy dog, has had extensive training on how to bring peoples stress levels down. Shes my sweetheart, Claudia Fisch, 43, said. She tells us when shes through for the day: Shell put her paws up on his (Jasons) legs and we know its time to go. vtdavis@express-news.net This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A woman charged in a horrific abuse case involving children who were bound at the ankles and wrists with dog chains and left in a Northeast San Antonio backyard in 2016 has been sentenced to 50 years in prison. As part of a plea agreement reached before Visiting Judge Laura Parker in Felony Impact Court on Friday, Porucha Phillips pleaded guilty to two counts of injury to a child/severe bodily injury, according to Bexar County court records. Phillips was sentenced to 50 years on each charge, and the sentences will be served at the same time. Reports released at the time indicate Bexar County sheriffs deputies responded to a call from a neighbor in the 8100 block of Chipping in the Camelot II subdivision who reported hearing a child cry for several hours on April 28, 2016. When authorities arrived, they found a boy, 4, and a girl, 3, tied by the ankles and wrists, with numerous injuries. Officials said that the children had been left outside in the rain, possibly for several days and were surrounded by their own feces. Once deputies freed the children, they found six other children between the ages of 10 months to 11 years old inside the home by themselves without an adult present. Authorities determined at least three of the children left unattended inside belonged to Phillips and Deandre Dorch. The pair had been watching the other two children tied outside for their friend, Cheryl Reed, whom the pair knew from California, where each lived before coming to San Antonio. While authorities were tending to the children at the scene, Phillips and Dorch showed up at the home. Phillips was arrested, and Dorch turned himself in days later. Reed, who told authorities she left her children in the care of Phillips, was arrested about a week later. In a news release posted Monday on his county website, Bexar County District Attorney Nicholas Nico LaHood said Phillips actions toward the children are beyond my understanding. In the law, we call it a depraved heart and unfortunately, there are others out there that have the same seared conscience, said LaHood. Let me be clear, anyone that abuses those who cannot defend themselves -- our communities' most vulnerable (children, elderly and disabled) will be dealt with swiftly and harshly. The children continue to be in the custody of Child Protective Services, the release stated. Injury to a child/serious bodily injury is a first-degree felony punishable by five to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Phillips will have to serve at least 25 years in prison before she is eligible for parole. Dorch and Reed, awaiting trial on similar charges as Phillips, were also charged with child abandonment, a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in prison. This report contains material from Express-News archives. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate BROWNSVILLE A little more than a year ago, scientists hailed the discovery of gravitational waves, the ripples in space-time triggered by cosmic events. On Monday, scientists announced another first, this time witnessing light from the collision of two neutron stars. Thousands of astronomers from across the globe were involved, including a group of budding scientists in deep South Texas. On Aug. 17, gravitational waves caused by the explosion of the colliding stars, known as a kilonova, tripped sensors at the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, or LIGO, and the Europe-based Virgo. Within minutes, telescopes around the world were scouring the heavens. Students at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valleys Center for Gravitational Wave Astronomy program, known as CGWA, helped crunch the data to confirm the gravitational waves, while the universitys Transient Optical Robotic Observatory of the South, or TOROS, participated in the optical confirmation of the gamma-ray burst. I hope the work of our faculty members and our students inspires young students ... to become aware of the kind of work we are doing, to become aware of the global impact of the research done at UTRGV, said Soma Mukherjee, chair of the universitys physics department. As scientists reveled in the discovery, astronomers and physicists at UTRGV gathered to recognize the schools role in training world-class physicists in a region of the country that struggles with educational disparities and poverty rates above 30 percent. And yet the university is making a name for itself in the science community, as a proving grounds for aspiring scientists raised on the border. Neutron stars are formed from a massive stellar explosion, or a supernova. The resulting small, dense neutron stars can have a radius of just a few miles but about twice as much matter as our sun. The stars gravity crushes atoms to make neutrons. When its density reaches critical mass, the star will eventually collapse to form a black hole. The explosion that scientists observed the kilonova occurs when two neutron stars merge. The violent burst was 1,000 times brighter than a supernova, casting off super dense matter such as gold and platinum. It is thought that gold, uranium and other dense material under our feet was formed from kilonovas billions of years ago. The collision near a galaxy 130 million light-years away caused a wave through the cosmic fabric of space-time, producing a loud chirp lasting for about 100 seconds. The cosmic radiation from the explosion was the first ever detected by scientists. Moises Castillo learned about the CGWA while flipping through a magazine at the Brownsville Public Library a decade ago. He happened upon an image of a simulated black hole that the program had provided the magazine. I said, Thats the place I want to go, said Castillo, now a masters degree student in the UTRGV physics program. Luckily, its so close to home. When Mario Diaz, an Argentine physicist, endeavored to create the CGWA in 2003 at the University of Texas at Brownsville, recent discoveries were still based largely on Albert Einsteins prediction a century ago that black holes caused gravitational waves through space-time. After more than $30 million in funding from the National Science Foundation, NASA and Defense Department, the program, now the product of two merged universities, is mentioned in the same breath as Caltech and MIT. The physics department has the largest group of gravitational-wave researchers in Texas and is one of the largest in the U.S., according to the university. Last year, its researchers contributed to the first detection of gravitational waves. The university hopes to continue making waves with its Spacecraft Tracking and Astronomical Research into Giga-hertz Astrophysical Transient Emission complex, or STARGATE. The program will give students and faculty the chance to be directly involved in the spacecraft design, testing, launch and orbital operations when SpaceX, a commercial launch provider, begins launching rockets next year from nearby Boca Chica Beach. You will find many people who will tell you that because you come from an impoverished background you are ill-prepared. said Diaz, who directs CGWA. This is a triumph for our Center for Gravitational Wave Astronomy. If not for Diaz, Karla Ramirez, who grew up in Matamoros, Mexico, across the border from Brownsville, might not have set her sights on the stars. She received her bachelors degree and masters degree in physics from UTRGV and is pursing her Ph.D. A decade ago, she gave little thought to leaving her home on the border. Now she dreams of possible opportunities, perhaps one day even working at LIGO in Livingston, Louisiana. I can see the impact this has had on my daughter, Ramirez said. She is 7 years old, and she is always saying, Mom, Im going to study at your school, Im going to do what you are doing. Anelsen@express-news.net |@amnelsen This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate AUSTIN The state is planning to contract with a private organization to manage foster care in Bexar County, a move advocates say will better serve kids but that critics warn will outsource decisions Child Protective Services should be making. Bexar County is set to be the third area statewide to get the new community-based care model, approved by the Legislature this year as a way to reform the embattled foster care system. In the new approach, state workers will continue investigating claims of abuse and neglect. But once children are removed from dangerous situations and put into foster care, the vendor would eventually take over, coordinating kids services, caseworker visits and court-related duties. Though the system would still rely on the dozens of organizations that currently care for the roughly 3,000 Bexar County kids in foster care, the vendor would manage those contracts instead of the state. Once the state opens the bidding process in November, both nonprofits and local governments can compete to be the vendor. More Information By the numbers There were 3,058 children in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services conservatorship in Bexar County on Aug. 31, 2016, according to Child Protective Services. As of July 2017, the percent of children placed out of the county was 40 percent, and 17.6 were placed out of the region, state data indicates. Twenty-five percent of children in foster care in Bexar County are between ages 0 and 2. The next largest demographic is teens between the ages of 14 and 17, who make up 20 percent of those in foster care in the county, the state data said. Almost 70 percent are Hispanic, while 18 percent are Anglo, according to the state. See More Collapse At least one San Antonio provider, The Childrens Shelter, plans to apply, according to CEO and President Annette Rodriguez. The organization already works with the state and serves roughly 5,000 children and families each year, including foster children, through its emergency shelters and foster family programs. The county does not plan to bid, said Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, who is optimistic about the new model. It gives us the opportunity to be better than what weve seen. We bounce kids around way too much in foster care, said Wolff, who has met children who switched foster homes as many as 30 times. Community care is one of several reforms lawmakers pursued this year to fix the Texas foster care system, which a federal judge ruled unconstitutional in 2015, saying it leaves abused and neglected children more damaged than when they came into state care. In April this year, a 15-year-old who fled a CPS office in the Houston-area was struck by a van and killed. Proponents of the new model say foster care is better managed at the local level and will help reduce the time children spend in the system, the number of homes they shuffle among and the chance that they are moved far away. Nearly 20 percent of foster kids from Bexar County were living outside the area in July, state records show, meaning they had to leave behind their families, schools and friends. The system run out of Austin has had years and years to do well, and it hasnt, said Rep. James Frank, R-Wichita Falls, who championed the community care model. I personally am more confident having decisions made closer to kids. But critics say the approach wrongly shifts important decision-making from the state to a private entity, such as whether to recommend a termination of parental rights in court. Eventually, the vendor would take over case management from the state and in that role develop permanency plans for kids that could include adoption or reunification with families. While the state maintains oversight and has veto power, critics say its unlikely that CPS would ever use it without knowing day-to-day details of the childs situation. Governmental decisions should be made by the government, said F. Scott McCown, director of the Childrens Rights Clinic at the University of Texas School of Law. Placing in the hands of nonprofit corporations the ability to prosecute a case for termination of parental rights in the name of the state, I dont think its constitutional and I dont think its good public policy. McCown said states such as Florida and Kansas, with similar models outsourcing foster care to private organizations, havent been successful. They dont do as well as Texas does now, and so I dont know why we are adopting their system, he said. It remains to be seen how community care will work here over the long term. Bexar County was picked as one of the first to try out the approach because of its size, community buy-in and strength of foster care providers in the area, among other factors, officials said. Thats whats going to make it successful, said Sen. Carlos Uresti, D-San Antonio. We all work together. Currently, the state contracts with more than three dozen organizations in the San Antonio area, including the Childrens Shelter, to provide foster homes. Fresh accusations that a San Antonio-area man sexually assaulted five foster children put in his care by a third-party contractor raised concerns last week about vetting. A reliance on subcontractors to provide foster care wouldnt change in the new model, but instead of the state overseeing the dozens of contracts, the new vendor would. While its not clear how much the vendor will get paid, compensation is driven by performance measures set in the final contract. Once a contractor is picked, the rollout is expected to take several years. Rodriguez of The Childrens Shelter said that if her organization is picked, it would set goals to improve kids care. For example, she said, the organization would aim to get children into a permanent home faster, reducing the average length of stay in foster care from 18 to 12 months. What excites us about the new approach is that it really allows communities to leverage their strengths and create a model unique to its community, Rodriguez said. My goal and my hope is children will leave the foster care system under this new model feeling like we added value to their lives. amorris@express-news.net About a year ago, leaders planning the citys yearlong Tricentennial celebration identified a handful of high potential corporate partners from whom they had been unable to solicit donations. All were local business heavyweights. At least one of them philanthropist Harvey Najim has remained elusive to Tricentennial fundraisers despite his long history of generosity to good causes. The problem, at least in Najims case, has been a failure to communicate the good causes that Tricentennial would serve. I havent made a final decision, Najim told me Monday. Ive got to be honest with you, I dont know enough. And I guess thats my problem. I really dont know whats going on. I think most peoples perception of it is, its going to be a lot of celebrations and parties and functions. Thats exactly the perception that Mayor Ron Nirenberg, who has personally jumped into the fundraising fray, would like to dispel. It is not a party, the mayor said. To celebrate the citys 300th anniversary, Tricentennial will include programs and events focusing on history, education, art, culture, philanthropy and community service. Nirenberg acknowledged communication failures had marred past fundraising attempts. Much of those efforts occurred under a previous administration; Nirenberg became mayor in June. As of Friday, SA300, the nonprofit planning the Tricentennial, had secured $5.96 million, amounting to 58 percent of its $10.3 million goal. I know there have been mixed results, and in many measures we havent reached our goals, Nirenberg told me. Our meetings with some of the philanthropic community have indicated that the efforts were disorganized. So thats been the effort, to ensure that were sending the right message about what the Tricentennial is and what it is not. I asked the mayor to describe a more organized fundraising pitch. You want to make sure that you have a timeline and description of the Tricentennial and when things would be occurring, he said. Also, a description of the particular works that will be created, scheduled and essentially a set of options funders would find meaningful for their missions. Hopefully, you will have done that homework before you enter the room and have those conversations. In Najims case, apparently, that did not occur. In September 2016, Asia Ciaravino, former chief operating officer of SA300, included Najims name in an email to the Tricentennial Fundraising Committee. (Ciaravino resigned in May.) She wrote that SA300 had a master corporate list of 521 people and had contacted 88 potential corporate sponsors. Listed below are some of the high potential corporate partners that we have not been able to get traction with and would appreciate your support in meeting with each of them, Ciaravino wrote. Alongside Najims name was a note: When we contacted them, he said they were not interested at this time. Najim told me he had met about a year ago with Ciaravino and Edward Benavides, CEO of SA300. I havent been to a presentation on (Tricentennial), he said. I try to support things that help children, that ensure children are happy, healthy, ready and protected. To be honest with you, if I were to give any money, it would take away from the money I would use to help children. Najim is deeply committed to the cause of helping children. Last year, for instance, the Childrens Hospital of San Antonio unveiled the Harvey E. Najim Blood and Marrow Transplant Center after the philanthropist donated $1.5 million to start a bone marrow transplant program there. Whether Tricentennial would align with Najims core mission whether its education component, for instance, might represent a cause worthy of his passion for children apparently never was broached with him. Going forward, Nirenberg wants to ensure these connections are made. In terms of matching the donor with the right initiative, we want to make sure the gift is meaningful and connects with their mission, he said. Its critically important, the mayor added, for fundraisers to highlight elements of the Tricentennial that are reflective of all of the aspirations that we all have for the city. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The judges and priests marched down the central aisle of the San Fernando Cathedral hall, passing by Catholic statues and candles as they hoisted bright red banners bearing legal and religious symbols. The opening of the 65th Red Mass in San Antonio, an annual event, marked the start of the judicial and academic year, calling upon God to grant light and inspiration to lawyers and judges in their pleas and adjudications. Most in attendance Thursday sported some form of red attire a dress, tie or collared shirt. Some wore scarlet robes or red vestments, symbolizing the Holy Spirit in Catholicism. The first Red Masses in the U.S. represented an effort by the countrys burgeoning Catholic lawyer population to stake a place in mainstream American society, said Michael Ariens, a professor at St. Marys University School of Law. The U.S. was at first largely prejudiced against Catholics, Ariens explained. This was one way for a population to say, We are Americans, and were part of the United States, he said. The Red Mass tradition in San Antonio dates back to the post-World War II era. Since then, it has changed in at least one notable way, according to Ariens colleague at the law school, Vincent Johnson, who recalled what Red Mass looked like when he arrived in 1982. There used to be a reserved spouses section off the main aisle of the church, Johnson said. Of course, it was populated only by women, because all members of the faculty who were married were men. In attendance Thursday was Sandee Bryan Marion, chief justice of the Fourth Court of Appeals in Bexar County. She was accompanied by a few of the six other justices in her court, which in 2005 became the nations first all-female appellate bench, a distinction it reclaimed last year. The start of San Antonios legal history predates the citys first Red Mass by more than 200 years, well before the first female attorney began practicing law in the Alamo City. In the early 18th century, in fact, the position of an attorney barely existed at all. At the time, the six regidores, or town councilmen, would appoint one-year positions called alcaldes. The alcaldes, according to Law and Liberty: A History of the Legal Profession in San Antonio, served as San Antonios first judges, among other administrative roles. But they ceded authority on the biggest cases to the citys military commander, who retained ultimate authority over the town, wrote author Jay Brandon. When people had disputes, they went to the alcalde, Ariens said. It might be, I believe his goats were grazing on my land, or I believe he planted squash on my lands. As the judicial system began to take form, the town government remained lax about enforcing Spanish laws strict attorney qualifications. The law, according to Brandon, required would-be lawyers to meet conditions beyond the qualifications of anyone living in San Antonio. So the town government would simply appoint the escribanos, an early type of lawyer, thus establishing a long Bexar County tradition of getting things done without being persnickety about the rules, Brandon wrote. Ariens said the losing sides typically respected judicial decisions but not always. It was difficult to create a sense of order when none of the accoutrements of order existed for the people here, he said. There were no police, no real army. In the first half of the 19th century, a couple key events shaped how Texan law would begin to adopt American legal traditions. First, a period of rapid Anglo-American colonization leading up to the Texas Revolution meant that by the mid-1830s, the newcomers vastly outnumbered native-born Texans. These white migrants didnt adhere to the strict attorney requirements under Mexican rule at the time, according to Brandon, with many incoming lawyers simply setting up shop in San Antonio and elsewhere. Then, in the aftermath of the Texas Revolution in 1835 and 1836, Brandon wrote, many leaders of the movement who were lawyers themselves turned their focus to enacting a more stable and defined legal system. The ensuing system was based in part on Louisianas probate law and American criminal law. During Texas 10-year run as a republic, the state laws became a distinctive blend of the two systems that produced it, Brandon wrote. For instance, according to Ariens, the prevailing system in the U.S. separated the less formal courts of equity, where judges could use their own discretion to determine what was fair or just, and courts of law, which went by the book. Texas combined the two. What Texas did was way ahead of everyone else, Ariens said. It allowed the same judge who was judge under the common law to look at the equity of the case, as well as the legal nature. The small size of Bexar Countys legal community in the 1800s meant just about every attorney knew one another. Under Texas court system, made up of a single chief justice and several district judges, lawyers often accompanied judges as they traveled between counties, sharing stories and sleeping around the campfire together, according to Law and Liberty. The lawyers of Bexar County all knew one another, got along well, and saw more of each other than they did of their families, Brandon wrote. The effort to formalize legal practice in Texas took one of its biggest steps when the states bar association formed in 1882. According to the Texas State Historical Association, Thomas Devine, a former San Antonio city attorney, served as the first president. The education of most attorneys in the 19th century consisted of apprenticeships, Ariens said, in lieu of a formal school system. But the requirements to become a lawyer tightened at the start of the 20th century with the institution of a written test. In 1896 and 1897, according to the historical association, 900 attorneys received licenses. By 1903, just 90 people took the exam, with 74 passing. By the time you hit roughly 1920, the bar exam had become more rigorous, Ariens said. And by becoming more rigorous, that created an incentive for people to use law schools instead of apprenticeships. Law schools became more stringent with their law degree requirements, too. The University of Texas at first required only two years of school to get a degree, Ariens said. According to the law schools website, that increased to three years in 1903. In 1934, St. Marys University gained control of the San Antonio School of Law, which had been founded seven years earlier by the citys bar association. The school gained accreditation from the American Bar Association in 1948. After World War II, the legal profession in San Antonio and Texas in general continued to become more progressive. The apprenticeship system had all but disappeared by then, Ariens said. In a key 1950 Supreme Court case, Sweatt vs. Painter, the court ruled that the separate but equal doctrine could not be applied at the University of Texas law school. Four years later, San Antonio attorney Carlos Cadena and two other lawyers successfully argued in a case, Hernandez v. Texas, that Jackson County juries could not exclude Mexican-Americans, who were protected under the 14th Amendment. Now, nearly three centuries after San Antonios makeshift legal system was introduced, anyone who wants to practice law in Texas must be a member of the State Bar of Texas and licensed by the Texas Supreme Court. Women still make up only 35 percent of state bar membership, according to 2016-17 data from the state bar. But that figure has grown from 14 percent in 1986, according to the Texas State Historical Association. The federal census listed three female attorneys in Texas in 1910. In 1998, Susan Reed was elected criminal district attorney of Bexar County, the first woman to fill the role. She held the office until losing to Nico LaHood, the current district attorney, in 2014. State bar data also indicate that only 9 percent and 5 percent of Texas attorneys are Hispanic or Latino and African-American, respectively. Those numbers have also trended upward in the last decade. Meanwhile, the incoming class of J.D. students at St. Marys law school is 48.5 percent female, and more than 60 percent are minorities. Ariens pointed to another recent trend in the legal profession: greater field specialization among attorneys. What specialization has done is created a more complicated legal system, which was made necessary in a more complicated society, Ariens said. But it causes problems in the sense that lawyers who specialize can fail to see the broader context. Pipeworks Is Aiming To Open A Brewpub In Logan Square In 2019 By Stephen Gossett in Food on Oct 17, 2017 5:11PM Pipeworks Brewing Company / Facebook Northwest Side beer geeks, rejoice. Pipeworks Brewing has made public plans to build a new brewpub in Logan Square. The company reportedly has agreed to purchase the site at at 2614 N. California Avenue. That's just north of the celebrated Mexican street-food spot Mi Tocaya AntojerAa and a short distance from the mini restaurant district on California between Logan and Fullerton, which includes Buona Terra and Quiote. The proposal still needs to get the thumbs up from the community, but co-founder Gerrit Lewis told the Tribune that the brewpub would likely open its doors early in 2019 if everything they get the necessary approval. Details are scant so far but Lewis did say plans call for a 10-barrel brewing setup that would hopefully allow for even greater experimentation. Pipeworks has focused on progressive brews ever since it debuted in 2012 with often-niche-y special editions. They eventually built a core that includes Ninja Vs. Unicorn, one of the city's preeminent Double IPAs, and won "Best New Brewery" honors from Ratebeer.com in 2013. A meeting to discuss the plan is slated for October 23 at 7 p.m., at Seventh Day Adventist Church (2840 W. Logan Blvd). Tribune beer writer Josh Noel shared a rendering, and, as pointed out DNA Info, Lewis posted one on his Facebook as well. NEW: A @PipeworksBrewin brewpub?! It still faces a few hurdles, but possibly yes, in Logan Square. https://t.co/7w5vj1IqPm pic.twitter.com/2nyJnSQFdh Josh Noel (@hopnotes) October 17, 2017 Facebook We bought in some Merinos and they looked as though they were six or seven months old but they were obviously very close to 12 because all of a sudden we found a couple that had lost a lambs tooth, so we had to sell them as hoggets and then bail out of the rest of them instantly. He, wife Kelly and children Charlie, 3, and Olivia, 18 months, along with Peter and the brothers nephew Zach Sinclair who works on their farm, also toured the Australian Wool Testing Authority and the Western Wool Centre (WWC) at Bibra Lake to see part of the familys Happy Valley wool clip sold. Warrenton, VA (20186) Today Rain. High 41F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a half an inch.. Tonight Cloudy with occasional rain...mainly this evening. Low 34F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. An investigative journalist whose stories tied top politicians in Malta to allegations of corruption uncovered by the Panama Papers died in a car bomb Monday afternoon. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed when her car exploded while she was driving near her home in Bidnija. She had recently accused Maltas prime minister and two top aides of using offshore companies connected to the sale of Maltese passports and payments from the government of Azerbaijan. Two weeks ago Caruana Galizia reportedly filed a police report alleging she had received death threats. Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and his wife have denied using offshore companies and bank accounts to hide payments from Azerbaijans ruling family. The Maltese government said FBI agents were traveling there to assist in the murder investigation. Caruana Galizia had spent the past year investigating disclosures in the Panama Papers that allegedly showed high-level corruption in Malta. She reported that the prime ministers wife received $1 million from Azerbaijans ruling family through an anonymous offshore company formed by the Panama-based law firm, Mossack Fonseca. Her stories appeared on her influential Running Commentary blog. She had also been a regular columnist for the Malta Independent for two decades. The Panama Papers are more than eleven million documents from Mossack Fonseca spanning 40 years that identify the real owners of secret offshore companies. The documents were leaked to the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung and catalogued by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). In May last year, the ICIJ launched a searchable database that used the Panama Papers to index nearly 500,000 offshore companies and the people behind them. One of Caruana Galizias three sons, Matthew, was a member of the ICIJ team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers. Caruana Galizia is also survived by her husband. Prime Minister Muscat has been in office since 2013. He won re-election four months ago. He had called an early vote to save his government after Caruana Galizia published her stories about the alleged corruption. _________ Richard L. Cassin is the publisher and editor of the FCPA Blog. Alek Wek is still learning about the fashion industry. Alek Wek The 40-year-old model - who embarked on a career in the industry aged 18 years old - has admitted she is "always discovering" new things about herself, and she has revealed she still has the same zest for her job as she did over 20 years ago. Speaking to Elle magazine, the catwalk icon said: "I get to learn every time I do a story; I'm always discovering what works and that keeps me active. "There's a feeling you have when you're young and you can't wait to grow up; I've still got that feeling. I've matured a bit, but I still have that joy of youth." Alek has credited social media for propelling the fashion industry further and helping the industry to "move fast". The South Sudanese-British star explained: "Today, it's all about 'new faces'. You guys have to work so damn hard. Before, we looked forward to seeing the same people. We grew up together. Now, with social media, things move fast. But the industry is also coming back to those authentic values; people want photography shoots with substance, and social media also gives you a platform to hold designers if they're not representing a diverse group of people. "To me beauty is universal. It doesn't matter what colour someone is, because we all cry the same, we all bleed the same, we celebrate family and friendships in the same way." But the style muse thinks it is a "lot harder" nowadays to "sweep bad behaviour under the rug" in the business. She added: "It's a lot harder to sweep bad behaviour under the rug." Alek also finds it interesting to observe budding models, who "climb over" other models, forge their career, as she has hinted they will not have longevity with their career. She explained: "If a brand is doing something because it's tokenistic or a gimmick, it always comes out. If models try to have instant gratification and climb over others, I say 'Well time tells'." Prince George loves watching television. Prince George The four-year-old royal, who is the son of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, relishes spending time in front of the TV screen at home, where he watches the kid's series 'The Octonauts', as well as 'The Lion King' and the 'Lego' movies. During a conversation with a young boy - which has been posted on Twitter - the Duke was asked about his son's hobbies, and he replies: "He quite likes 'The Lion King'. We've watched that a few times." The Duke revealed that he and his wife are careful to ensure the young Prince doesn't spend too much time in front of the TV, though. But he added: "He's watched 'Octonauts'. Trying to keep him off the television is hard work." Meanwhile, it was recently claimed that Prince George and his younger sister, two-year-old Princess Charlotte, have already started to influence fashion trends in the UK and abroad. The Prince wore a blue jumper during the royals' tour of Canada in 2016, prompting a 200 percent spike in searches for the term 'blue jumper', and his sister is having a similar impact with her own attire. An eBay spokesman said: "Her yellow cardigan worn in her birthday picture sparked the biggest percentage increase in searches for an item of clothing worn by any royal." Murray Lambell, vice-president of trading at eBay, said that although Duchess Catherine is widely known for her stylish attire, it is the youngest generation of royals who are now proving to be most influential. He explained: "It's the youngest generation of royals who really generate the must-have fashion items - and are driving a new generation of shopping behaviour on eBay." The roof and glass at the main terminal building of Beijing's new airport are being installed, with crews attempting to seal off the building from weather by the end of this year or soon thereafter, the airport's spokesman said on Monday. Journalists listen to a presentation of the progress being made on Beijing's new airport, south of the city's center, on Monday. The roof and glass are being installed on the main terminal, and trial operations are to begin in October 2019. [Photo/China Daily] "The internal decorations and installation of electromechanical equipment will begin as soon as the terminal building has been sealed," said Zhu Wenxin, the airport's spokesman. As of the end of September, more than 90 percent of the earthwork had been completed, and 95 percent of supporting projects, such as bridge foundations, were finished, he said. The new airport, whose construction began at the end of 2014, is to begin trial operations in October 2019. "Once completed, it will be Beijing's second international aviation hub, serving the capital and nearby residents along with Beijing Capital International Airport," he said. The new facility is located between Beijing's Daxing district and Langfang, Hebei province. It's 46 kilometers from Tian'anmen Square, 67 km from the capital airport and 85 km from Tianjin Binhai International Airport. It will be accessible via public transportation, including high-speed rail, intercity railway, subway and freeway. It is also designed to be passenger-friendly, with the farthest boarding gate 600 meters from the center of the terminalabout an 8 minute walk. By 2025 it's expected the airport will handle 72 million passenger trips, 620,000 departures and arrivals, and 2 million metric tons of cargo and mail annually. The long-term goal is 100 million passenger trips and 4 million metric tons of cargo and mail. Beijing Capital, the busiest airport in China, handled more than 90 million passenger trips last year, but demand exceeds the airport's design capacity. Passenger throughput was 94.4 million in 2016, though the facility was designed for 82 million, said Han Zhiliang, president of the airport, at a conference in September. Feng Zhenglin, head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, said the country aims to build a world-class multiple airport system to better serve major metropolitan centers. Airports in Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei, for example, are positioned to serve the diverse needs of the cluster, Feng said. Representatives from the Garment Manufacturers Association of Cambodia (GMAC) recently urged the government to push for the fabric-forward rule during negotiations for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). During a meeting with government officials, they were particularly eager about how the agreement will handle the rules of origin.The RCEP is a regional economic agreement being negotiated between the 10 ASEAN nations and their six free trade agreement partners Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.ASEAN needs a unanimous position on the rules of origin, the most contentious part in any free trade agreement, before discussing with the other countries, according to GMAC secretary general Kaing Monika.Based on the principle of mutual understanding we have at the ASEAN Federation of Textile Industries, ASEAN would agree on the fabric-forward rule, which is a compromise between yarn-forward, which is too strict, and single-transformation, which it too laid back, a leading Cambodian newspaper quoted Monika as saying.Fabric-forward rule means that the fabric for used manufacturing apparel or other textile products must originate in an ASEAN country. As Cambodia imports most of its textiles from prospective RCEP members, so the country would benefit from the adoption of the fabric-forward rule, he added. (DS) Fibre2Fashion News Desk India HON PM BAINIMARAMA AT THE OPENING OF THE PRE-COP MEETING IN NADI Excellencies, Distinguished delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, Bula vinaka and a very good morning to you all, This is a historic day for Fiji as we begin the process of accepting the baton from Morocco and beginning our term as President of COP23. President Mezouar, I want to begin by congratulating you on your own Presidency of COP22 and for the support you have given me and Fiji from the very moment we took on this responsibility. We remember with gratitude your strong endorsement of Fijis Presidency; your constant reminder that this is a year in which we must accelerate progress in the negotiations to safeguard the interests of the most vulnerable; and also the unwavering confidence you have expressed in our leadership as the first small island state to be honoured with the Presidency of the COP. My thanks go to you and your excellent team. And I especially congratulate you for delivering a great speech in English and also your use of the iTaukei language. Vinaka vakalevu. Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, we also had the privilege of watching a video message yesterday from a leader grappling with the latest catastrophe fuelled by climate change the wildfires in California. Governor Jerry Brown communicated determination and resolve in the face of the terrible toll these fires are inflicting on his own people. He spoke passionately of the absolute necessity of co-operating with other political leaders around the world in the Under 2 Coalition to tackle the underlying causes of climate change. This is what politics will look like. And we need more of it. Leaders inspiring other leaders to use their power to mobilise people and resources to protect the interests of their own citizens and humanity as a whole. Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen. We can no longer ignore this crisis. Whether it is fires in California, Portugal and Spain. Flooding in Nigeria, India and Bangladesh. The dramatic Arctic melt. Ice breaking off the continent of Antarctica. The recent hurricanes that devastated the Caribbean and the southern United States. Or the hurricane that has just struck Ireland and Scotland the tenth hurricane of the Atlantic season this year. Its hard to find any part of the world that is unaffected by these events. And we in the Pacific need no lessons on this threat after Fiji was struck last year by the strongest cyclone ever to make landfall in the southern hemisphere. And Vanuatu was devastated by a similar event the year before. Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, future generations will rightly judge us on what we did about all of this. We must rise to the challenge. We must commit ourselves to solving this problem. Fortunately there is not only hope that we can find and implement solutions to climate change but there is opportunity to create better lives for our citizens once we make the hard decisions that need to be made. We can bring clean power to people who need it. We can introduce better and more affordable energy systems. And we can feed our people with better stewardship of our land, water and forests. We can use our resources much more efficiently through a combination of political will, ingenuity and finance. But finance that is well spent - investment for a better future. Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, people ask me what I want to bring to these negotiations, which after all, have been going on for many years. And I say it is to bring a sense of urgency to the process. I recognise that my fellow leaders among the island states made a major contribution to the creation of the mother agreement in Rio De Janeiro in 1992. In subsequent agreements in Kyoto in 1997, and in Paris in 2015. I honour their work. Leaders like the late Tony deBrum Mr 1.5 to stay alive. Their contribution will never be forgotten. And frankly, it would have been in everyones interests had we done what they argued for earlier. They have had a long history of being right. And they will tell you now that we need to exercise more collective power to solve this problem before its too late. We received the same message from our own people on the tapa scroll delivered so spectacularly by Drua on Denarau Beach yesterday evening. Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I can tell my own people that we are embarking on a series of projects here in Fiji that will improve their everyday lives and help them to adapt to the effects of climate change. Communities will now have clean power where they previously had diesel generated power or no power. Our capital city - Suva will now have a more resilient water and waste management system. And creating our own Green Bond will provide better access to climate adaptation finance in Fiji. All this is happening. And all of this can be replicated in other countries, other vulnerable countries. But nations cannot protect themselves individually without all the parties to this agreement doing what they have already agreed to do and more. This is why the international negotiations are so vital to the interests of our people and the same is true for the people you all represent. As you know, Fijis task as President of these negotiations is to progress the implementation guidelines of the Paris Agreement to bring the vision of the Paris Agreement to life. And to design the Facilitative Dialogue which many of you are already calling the Talanoa Dialogue. I must say that ever since Fiji introduced the Talanoa concept in Bonn back in May, it seems to have captured the imaginations of a great many of you. The spirit behind it seems to fit the needs of this process at this time. To share our stories in an atmosphere of respect, without finger-pointing. Not merely focusing on what people havent done but what they could and should do to lift ambition and reduce the risk to us all. And thats the point of talanoa. Its about delivering outcomes for the common good. And if Frank can be frank for a moment, Ive always had a bit of trouble with the word facilitative. Its a tongue-twister that really doesnt resonate with my own people, thats for sure. So Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen: urgency, political will, co-operation, ambition and an absolute dedication to meet the 1.5 degree target is what we need and what we must take to Bonn. Its not enough to scare people. We cant resign ourselves to our fate. We have to inspire in our people the absolute certainty that life will get better if we solve this problem. Its a future we dont have to be afraid of if we have the courage to act. I want to close by saying vinaka vakalevu to all those who have worked so hard to bring us all together the COP23 Secretariat, the wider Presidency support team and the many people from the various arms of the Fijian Government, private enterprise and supporting agencies who have contributed to this event. And so with less than three weeks to COP, lets get to work to make this vision real. Because the work that we will do together matters. It will shape a world of decisions that will take us in a new and better direction. Vinaka vakalevu. Thank you. BALA CYNWYD, PA / ACCESSWIRE / October 16, 2017 / Law office of Brodsky & Smith, LLC announces that it is investigating potential claims against the Board of Directors of Ruby Tuesday, Inc. ('Ruby Tuesday' or 'the Company') (NYSE: RT - News) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of federal and state law in connection with the sale of the Company to a fund managed by NRD Capital ('NRD'). Click here to learn more http://www.brodskysmith.com/cases/ruby-tuesday-inc-nyse-rt/, or call: 877-534-2590. There is no cost or obligation to you. Under the terms of the transaction, Ruby Tuesday shareholders will receive only $2.40 in cash for each share of Ruby Tuesday stock they own. The investigation concerns whether the Board of Ruby Tuesday breached their fiduciary duties to shareholders and whether NRD is underpaying for the Company. The transaction may undervalue the Company and would result in a substantial loss for many Ruby Tuesday shareholders. For example, shares of Ruby Tuesday stock have traded at $8.34 per share and an analyst has set an $5.00 per share price target for Ruby Tuesday stock. If you own shares of Ruby Tuesday stock and wish to discuss the legal ramifications of the investigation, or have any questions, you may e-mail or call the law office of Brodsky & Smith, LLC who will, without obligation or cost to you, attempt to answer your questions. You may contact Jason L. Brodsky, Esquire or Evan J. Smith, Esquire at Brodsky & Smith, LLC, Two Bala Plaza, Suite 510, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004, by visiting http://www.brodskysmith.com/cases/ruby-tuesday-inc-nyse-rt/, or calling toll free 877-LEGAL-90. Brodsky & Smith, LLC is a litigation law firm with extensive expertise representing shareholders throughout the nation in securities and class action lawsuits. The attorneys at Brodsky & Smith have been appointed by numerous courts throughout the country to serve as lead counsel in class actions and have successfully recovered millions of dollars for our clients and shareholders. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. SOURCE: Brodsky & Smith, LLC BEIJING, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 13, 2017, The 8thU.S.-ChinaEnergyEfficiencyForum was held in Denver, Colorado, US. At the forum, Foton Motor and Cummins signed a Memorandum of Green Power and Smart Truck Cooperation Development Project, which indicates that Foton Motor and Cummins will launch an in-depth cooperation in tackling global climate change under the consensus of boosting energy-saving, low-carbon and green development, and alsomarks the launching of the second stage of the"China Super Truck" program. This new cooperation aims at performing in-depth cooperations in green energy sources, that is, based on the advantages of the both sides in technologies and resources, using new energy-saving technologies to complete the optimization of the powertrain system and vehicle integration, reducing fuel consumption and enhancing transport efficiency, creating globally-leading green smart trucks to comply with the trend of green environmental protection and practice the requirements of US-China clean energy cooperation. Since 2008 when Foton Motor and Cummins established the joint venture, engines produced by Foton Cummins have covered light-duty and heavy-duty engine series, with emission standards meeting the requirements in the globally strictest emission-related laws and regulations, Foton Cummins engines can meet Euro IV, Euro V and Euro VI emission standards. ISG super powertrain is Cummins' exclusive powertrain for Super Truck. Its outstanding intelligent technology and high-efficiency fuel-saving advantages contribute to it being a global mainstream primary powertrain for high-end heavy-duty truck. FOTON AUMAN EST and EST-A heavy duty truck which are equipped with ISG super powertrain, can reduce fuel consumption and carbon emission and enhance transport efficiency sharply. FOTON AUMAN EST series will be launched in Russia, Peru, Thailand, etc. this year, which has been researched and developed for 4 years with European standards, based on research and development advantages of Beijing Foton Daimler Automotive Co., Ltd.(BFDA), matched with Cummins ISG exclusive powertrain, and integrated globally top-level commercial vehicle core supply chains including Cummins, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Wabco, Continental, etc. Leading the trend oftheChinese truck with scientific and technological breakthroughs, FOTON AUMAN EST series has become China's real first-generation Super Truck. In addition, Foton Motor allied with globally top-level supply chain systems to establish "China Intelligent Connected Super Truck Alliance", aiming at generating the construction and development of smart traffic and smart cities on a global scale, through intelligent interconnection automobile products. The signature of Memorandum on Strategic Cooperation of green power and Smart Truck indicates that the second stage of "China Super Truck" program is launched formally. Its target is to reduce fuel consumption up to 15-20%, decrease carbon emission up to 20% and enhance transport efficiency up to 50%. Foton Motor, as the backbone force of China automobile industry, with the characteristic of "green, high efficiency, safety and intelligence", will cooperate with Cummins to provide green super powertrain and intelligent Super Truck for the global commercial vehicle market, as well as showing the strong power of "China Intelligent Manufacturing" in the world. Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/583818/Energy_Effeciency_Signing.jpg Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/583816/FOTON_Cummins_energy_efficiency_cooperations.jpg Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/583817/FOTON_Cummins_energy_efficiency_cooperations.jpg BEIJING, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Beijing Capital Airlines will launch anonstop service between London and Qingdao on November 17, 2017, following the announcement of its Sydney-Qingdao nonstop service commencing on October 30th. The new Airbus A330 twin-aisle wide-body aircraft is scheduled to operate on the route, twice a week on Monday and Friday. Flight No. Schedule Terminal Dep. Time Arr. Time Terminal JD432 Monday, Friday London Heathrow 22:00 17:30+1 Qingdao JD431 Monday, Friday Qingdao 15:05 19:50 London Heathrow Often called the Switzerland of the Orient, Qingdao is located at the southern end of theShandongpeninsula. The city is an important transportation hub along China's eastern coast and a main port of entry for travelers arriving from abroad as well as a key exit point for travel outside of the country. At present, passengers flying from Qingdao to London need to transfer in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Hong Kong. Now, with the London-Qingdao service, the first nonstop service between the two cities, passengers can save significant time in transit, eliminating the need to switch aircraft while on route as well as avoid what can often amount to many hours of wait time at the intermediary airport. With only 12 flying hours, the nonstop service provides a convenient air bridge for passengers from Qingdao and surrounding areas to London. The launch of the London-Qingdao nonstop service is part of Beijing Capital Airlines' roadmap for ongoing global expansion as well as the accelerating of the establishment of its global network. The new route is Beijing Capital Airlines' first nonstop service to London, closing a gap that the airline needed to fill in terms of the UK market while growing the network and providing passengers with the convenience of a more diversified set of travel choices. Going forward, Beijing Capital Airlines plans to launch more travel products, offer a wider range of quality services and enable a more accommodating and comfortable travel experience for passengers travelling to London. New Mazda CX-5 Hofu Plant, Nishinoura District Corporate Communications Division Mazda Motor Corporation, Japan +81-3-3508-5056 [Tokyo] +81-82-282-5253 [Hiroshima] mailto: media@mazda.co.jp HIROSHIMA, Japan, Oct 17, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Mazda Motor Corporation today started production of the new Mazda CX-5 crossover at its Hofu Plant No. 2 in Yamaguchi Prefecture to enable the company to meet the growing global demand for crossovers flexibly and rapidly. Until now the CX-5 has been produced at the company's Hiroshima Plant and at plants in China and Malaysia.In his remarks upon the start of CX-5 production at the Hofu Plant, Hidenori Kawakami, Executive Officer assisting the officer in charge of global production and plant General Manager, said, "I'm pleased that production of the CX-5 has begun at Hofu Plant. We are keenly aware of our position as one of the parent factories in Mazda's global manufacturing network and working to raise Mazda' brand value, we carefully craft each car with attention to detail, pride and commitment in an effort to please our customers. I hope that all of the Mazda vehicles, including the CX-5, that are made with care here at the Hofu Plant, will further enrich the lives of customers around the world. Through the manufacture of automobiles, we will continue to contribute to Japan' monotsukuri and to regional development."Mazda is working to meet a global sales volume target of 1.65 million units by the end of its three-year business plan, Structural Reform Stage 2, which was launched last fiscal year. In recent years global demand for crossovers has surged. In order to meet this demand expeditiously, the company has made its production system more flexible. In December 2016 the Hofu Plant joined the Hiroshima plant in producing the CX-3, a compact crossover SUV. And in August of this year, the system for production of crossovers at the Hiroshima Plant's body factory was enhanced.http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Mazda101717CX5.jpgNew Mazda CX-5http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_MazdaHofuPlant.jpgHofu Plant, Nishinoura DistrictMoving forward Mazda hopes to help create a future in which people, the earth and society can coexist with cars, to enrich people's lives through a car ownership experience that celebrates driving, and to become a brand with which customers feel a strong emotional connection.About MazdaMazda Motor Corporation (TSE: 7261) started manufacturing tools in 1929 and soon branched out into production of trucks for commercial use. In the early 1960s, Mazda launched its first passenger car models and began developing rotary engines. Still headquartered in Hiroshima in western Japan, Mazda today ranks as one of Japan's leading automakers, and exports cars to the United States and Europe for over 30 years. For more information, please visit www.mazda.comSource: MazdaContact:Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. (April 2017 September 2017) Sustained +7.0%* growth in the first half 2017/18 objectives confirmed Regulatory News: Remy Cointreau (Paris:RCO) generated sales of 544.4 million in the first half of its 2017/18 financial year, with reported growth of 6.0%. In organic terms (at constant exchange rates and scope), sales climbed 7.0%, including sustained momentum in the second quarter (+6.2%). The robust growth in the first half of the year was driven by the Group Brands (+9.6% in organic terms), in particular by the House of Remy Martin (+15.4%). The decline in Liqueurs Spirits sales resulted from the deconsolidation of Passoa, and conceals the strong growth of the division's remaining brands (+5%). The sales of Partner Brands continued to be affected by the end of the distribution agreement for the champagne brands. In the first half, organic growth increased in all regions, with Asia Pacific delivering remarkable growth, driven by strong momentum in Greater China and Singapore, as well as improved trends in Japan. The Americas region benefited from solid second-quarter growth in the United States, amid a favorable environment for cognac upscaling. Growth in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region was underpinned by positive performance in Russia, Central Europe and Africa. Sales breakdown by division: 6 months 6 months Change ( million) at 30/09/2017 at 30/09/2016 Reported Organic (*) House of Remy Martin 367.0 322.5 13.8% 15.4% Liqueurs Spirits 129.2 134.8 -4.2% -4.5% Subtotal: Group Brands 496.1 457.3 8.5% 9.6% Partner Brands 48.2 56.0 -13.9% -14.3% Total 544.4 513.4 6.0% 7.0% (*) Organic growth is calculated assuming constant exchange rates and consolidation scope. House of Remy Martin The House of Remy Martin achieved an excellent performance in the first half, with organic growth of 15.4%, through increased sales in all regions. In Asia Pacific, Greater China confirmed strong momentum, while Singapore is making robust headway, and Japan returned to positive growth. The Americas are benefiting from solid demand for high-end cognac, and the EMEA region is driven by a new phase of expansion in Africa, as well as sustained growth in Russia. Travel Retail started the year strong, notably thanks to clear improvement in high-end cognac trends. Creativity within the House of Remy Martin continued in the first half of the year. Following the launch of its limited edition XO Cannes 2017, available exclusively in Travel Retail, Remy Martin launched the second edition of Carte Blanche Baptiste Loiseau, an exclusive series of 9,650 bottles. Meanwhile, LOUIS XIII launched the limited edition The Legacy, 500 crystal magnum decanters signed by four generations of cellar masters. Liqueurs & Spirits The decline in Liqueurs Spirits (-4.5% in organic terms) is attributed to the deconsolidation of Passoa sales from December 1, 2016. This development overshadowed strong growth by the division's remaining brands (+5%) in the first half. The House of Cointreau has continued its progression since the beginning of the year, thanks to good performance in its number-one market, the United States, as well as brisk development in newer markets, such as Greater China and Russia. The House of Metaxa experienced remarkable growth, driven by the success of "12 Stars" in its main markets (Central Europe, Russia and Germany), and acceleration in Travel Retail trends, thanks to the return of Russian travelers. Mount Gay benefited from positive trends in its long-standing markets, notably Barbados and the UK, while St-Remy capitalized on solid business in Canada and expansion in Russia. The Progressive Hebridean Distillers (Bruichladdich/Port Charlotte/Octomore/The Botanist) pursued remarkable growth, boosted by the exceptional strength of The Botanist gin. Partner Brands Lower sales (-14.3% in organic terms) resulted primarily from the evolution in the partner brands' portfolio: on one hand, the end of the distribution agreement for champagne brands (Piper-Heidsieck and Charles Heidsieck), and on the other hand, the consolidation of Passoa revenues, now distributed by the Remy Cointreau network on behalf of the Passoa joint venture. 2017/18 Outlook With first-half sales fully in line with the Group's forecasts, Remy Cointreau confirms its guidance of growth in Current Operating Profit over the financial year 2017/18, assuming constant exchange rates and consolidation scope. Appendices: Sales and organic growth by business and by quarter Sales in first-quarter 2017-18 (April to June 2017) million Reported 17-18 Currency 17-18 Scope 17-18 Organic 17-18 (*) Reported 16-17 Change: Reported Change: Organic (*) A B C A/C-1 B/C-1 House of Remy Martin 156.6 2.3 0.0 154.3 130.0 20.5% 18.7% Liqueurs Spirits 58.6 0.4 1.2 57.0 58.1 0.9% -1.9% Subtotal: Group Brands 215.2 2.7 1.2 211.3 188.1 14.4% 12.3% Partner Brands 25.0 0.1 0.0 24.9 30.5 -18.0% -18.5% Total 240.2 2.9 1.2 236.1 218.6 9.9% 8.0% Sales in second-quarter 2017-18 (July to September 2017) million Reported 17-18 Currency 17-18 Scope 17-18 Organic 17-18 (*) Reported 16-17 Change: Reported Change: Organic (*) A B C A/C-1 B/C-1 House of Remy Martin 210.3 -7.7 0.0 218.0 192.5 9.2% 13.2% Liqueurs Spirits 70.6 -1.6 0.3 71.8 76.7 -8.0% -6.4% Subtotal: Group Brands 280.9 -9.2 0.3 289.8 269.3 4.3% 7.6% Partner Brands 23.2 0.1 0.0 23.2 25.5 -8.9% -9.2% Total 304.1 -9.2 0.3 313.0 294.8 3.2% 6.2% Sales in first-half 2017-18 (April to September 2017) million Reported 17-18 Currency 17-18 Scope 17-18 Organic 17-18 (*) Reported 16-17 Change: Reported Change: Organic (*) A B C A/C-1 B/C-1 House of Remy Martin 367.0 -5.4 0.0 372.3 322.5 13.8% 15.4% Liqueurs Spirits 129.2 -1.1 1.5 128.8 134.8 -4.2% -4.5% Subtotal: Group Brands 496.1 -6.5 1.5 501.1 457.3 8.5% 9.6% Partner Brands 48.2 0.2 0.0 48.0 56.0 -13.9% -14.3% Total 544.4 -6.3 1.5 549.1 513.4 6.0% 7.0% (*) Organic growth is calculated assuming constant exchange rates and consolidation scope. Definitions of alternative performance indicators Remy Cointreau's management process is based on the following alternative performance indicators, chosen for planning and reporting. The Group management considers that these indicators provide financial statement users with useful additional information for understanding the Group's performance. These alternative performance indicators should be considered as supplementing those included in the consolidated financial statements and the resulting movements. Organic sales growth Organic growth is calculated excluding the impacts of variations in exchange rates as well as acquisitions and disposals. The impact of exchange rates is calculated by converting sales for the current financial year into the exchange rate of the previous financial year. For acquisitions in the current financial year, the sales of the acquired entity are not included in organic growth calculations. For acquisitions in the previous financial year, the sales of the acquired entity are included in the previous financial year but are included in organic growth calculations for the current year only starting from the anniversary date of the acquisition. For significant disposals, we use data following the application of IFRS 5, which systematically reclassifies the sales of the sold entity in "Net profit from activities sold or to be sold" for the current and previous financial year. This indicator serves to focus on Group performance common to both financial years, which local management is more directly capable of influencing. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171016005972/en/ Contacts: Remy Cointreau Laetitia Delaye, +33 (0)1 44 13 45 25 STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- DigitalRoute, the leading provider of Data Integration and management solutions globally, has announced that its MediationZone product is being deployed by Real Move, the mobile subsidiary of Thailand's leading multi-play operator True Corporation, to enable the launch of enhanced bundled service offers across its fixed, mobile, Internet, digital and satellite networks. The new deployment, one in a series of recent customer wins, underlines DigitalRoute's rapid growth in the Asia Pacific region. In this latest deployment, DigitalRoute is delivering a convergent offline and real-time processing with Billing Mediation solution, which enables the operator to take a strategic approach to maximizing the value of its multi-play offering. Real Move, the only one in its domestic market to offer multi-play services, required a solution that would further enhance its ability to differentiate itself from its competitors by packaging different services delivered over its various networks at much larger volumes and able to support faster times to market. It selected DigitalRoute technology due to its flexibility, performance, lower total cost of ownership and short time-to-market. The first phase of implementation, supporting a new 4G network, was completed by the joint team in a record time of only four months. The entire project was completed by the Autumn. DigitalRoute's solution delivers a single, central data integration and management component for Real Move and other operators that need to synchronize usage flows and then monetize the data coming from multiple incoming sources. It acts as hub wherein the data is pre-processed before converged records are sent downstream to billing and other applications. Used by over 350 telcos and other enterprises worldwide, including deployments through our partners, MediationZone Convergent Mediation provides a proven approach to solving any convergent market offering. RealMove's enhanced capability for its multi-play packages is seen as an important advance: "We know that service bundling meets inherent customer demand and that convergent big data capable mediation is central to meeting it. As such, DigitalRoute technology is a key strategic asset in our future success," said the IT Director Khun Pichit Thanyodom at Real Move. DigitalRoute CEO Andreas Zartmann notes: "Our reputation as the global market leader in convergent mediation has been proven over 16 plus years. We are delighted not only that telcos continue to turn to us to support innovation in this area but, as networks become more complex and diverse, to also count on us for solutions to other challenges like OSS Mediation and Policy Control." Zartmann added: "I am also delighted to welcome Real Move to our family of customers. This cements the fact that over the past twelve months, usage of our technology to address multiple Use Cases in Asia is continuing to rapidly gain pace among market leaders and innovators." About DigitalRoute DigitalRoute has been providing new approaches to data integration and management since 1999. Its technology offers high throughput and provides a unique degree of user configurability, processing all usage and statistical data extracted from the networks, including both billable and non-billable events. This means customers gain greater cost efficiencies, improved times-to-market for new service offerings, the ability to monetize any data, and the means to enhance end-customer satisfaction. DigitalRoute makes network events available to the right systems in the right formats in the most appropriate volumes at the required times, without losing a single bit. This is the foundation from which multiple, mission-critical use-cases can be addressed in the areas of Billing Mediation, OSS Mediation, Real-Time Control and Enterprise Data Processing. Over 350 leading companies worldwide use DigitalRoute technology to meet their data management needs, including a number of OEM partners who use our platform as a central part of their own offerings. DigitalRoute is built on the core values of Expertise, Open-Mindedness and Commitment. With close to 200 employees, the company is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden with regional offices in Gothenburg, Atlanta and Kuala Lumpur. DigitalRoute is a venture-backed, privately-held company. https://www.facebook.com/DigitalRoute https://twitter.com/digital_route https://www.linkedin.com/company/36031?trk=tyah DigitalRoute and MediationZone are registered trademarks of Digital Route AB. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. For more information or interviews with Andreas Zartmann contact: Sancha Brody Media & Analyst Relations Email: Email Contact Phone: +44 (0)7376 366855 Regulatory News: Following the acquisition of Eurosic's blocks of securities on August 29, 2017, Gecina (Paris:GFC) was holding close to 85% of the capital of Eurosic on a diluted basis. The release of the results of the simplified alternative public tender and exchange offer filed by Gecina on September 19, 2017 (the "Offer") indicates that Gecina's holding reach 99.75% as of today. This achievement favors the finalization of the acquisition of Eurosic through the implementation of the squeeze-out and delisting by the end of October. These last steps will promote the integration process of Eurosic. Gecina and Eurosic announce that on October 17, 2017, the French Market Authority (Autorite des marches financiers (AMF) published a notice releasing the final results of the Offer and stated that 8,957,495 shares and 364,852 obligations subordonnees remboursables en actions (OSRA) were tendered in the Offer, representing in total 14.40%1 of the diluted capital of Eurosic. Among the 9,322,347 shares and OSRA tendered in the Offer, 81.30% were tendered in the exchange offer, the remaining balance in the cash offer. As a result, Gecina now holds 47,079,603 shares, that is 99.67%2 of the share capital of Eurosic, and 17,491,754 OSRA Eurosic, representing in total 99.75% of the diluted capital1 As previously announced, Gecina will implement a squeeze-out and delisting to allow for the transfer of shares and OSRA of Eurosic not already owned by Gecina in exchange for a compensation equal to the price offered in the Offer. In this regard, a request was made to Euronext Paris to suspend the trading of the shares and OSRA of Eurosic after market closing on October 16, 2017. The information document prepared by Gecina relating to the simplified alternative public tender and exchange offer which was granted the AMF visa n17-502 on September 19, 2017, as well as information regarding the characteristics, in particular the legal, financial and accounting characteristics, of Gecina are available on the website of the AMF (www.amf-france.org) and on the website of Gecina (www.gecina.fr). These documents are also available free of charge at: Gecina 14-16, rue des Capucines 75002 Paris France Deutsche Bank AG, Succursale de Paris 23-25, avenue Franklin Roosevelt 75008 Paris France Natixis 47 quai d'Austerlitz 75013 Paris France The document in response prepared by Eurosic which was granted the AMF visa n17-503 on September 19, 2017, as well as information regarding the characteristics, in particular the legal, financial and accounting characteristics, of Eurosic are available on the website of the AMF (www.amf-france.org) and on the website of Eurosic (www.eurosic.fr). These documents are also available free of charge at: Eurosic 1, rue de Euler 75008 Paris Gecina, living the city in a different way Gecina owns, manages and develops property holdings worth 19.5 billion euros at end-August 2017, with nearly 92% located in the Paris Region. The Group is building its business around France's leading office portfolio and a diversification division with residential assets and student residences. Gecina has put sustainable innovation at the heart of its strategy to create value, anticipate its customers' expectations and invest while respecting the environment, thanks to the dedication and expertise of its staff. Gecina is a French real estate investment trust (SIIC) listed on Euronext Paris, and is part of the SBF 120, Euronext 100, FTSE4Good, DJSI Europe and World, Stoxx Global ESG Leaders and Vigeo indices. In line with its community commitments, Gecina has created a company foundation, which is focused on protecting the environment and supporting all forms of disability. www.gecina.fr Disclaimers This press release has been prepared for information purposes only. It does not constitute an offer to purchase, to sell, or exchange, or the solicitation of an offer to purchase, to sell or exchange, securities of Eurosic or Gecina. The transmission, publication and distribution of this press release may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. Any person having the press release at its disposal and located in such jurisdictions shall take notice of and conform to the legal restrictions in effect. The press release does not constitute an offer to sell or purchase, or a solicitation of any offer to purchase or to subscribe for, any securities of Eurosic or Gecina in the Unites States of America. Securities may not be offered, subscribed or sold in the United States of America absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements thereof. The securities of Eurosic and Gecina have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act and Eurosic or Gecina does not intend to make a public offer of its securities in the Unites States of America. Each of Eurosic, Gecina, their respective shareholders, counsels or representatives will not bear any liability for any use by any person of this press release and the information it contains, or more generally in relation with this press release. 1 Eurosic share capital post dilution from OSRAs and excluding treasury shares 2 Eurosic share capital excluding treasury shares View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005725/en/ Contacts: GECINA Financial communications Samuel Henry-Diesbach, Tel: +33 (0)1 40 40 52 22 samuelhenry-diesbach@gecina.fr or Virginie Sterling, Tel: +33 (0)1 40 40 62 48 virginiesterling@gecina.fr or Press relations Brigitte Cachon, Tel: +33 (0)1 40 40 62 45 brigittecachon@gecina.fr or Theresa Vu, Tel: +33 (0)1 44 82 46 13 theresa.vu@consultants.publicis.fr CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. dollar climbed against its most major opponents in pre-European deals on Tuesday, as U.S. Treasury yields rose in the wake of reports that President Donald Trump was favoring Stanford economist John Taylor, considered to be relatively hawkish than current Chair Janet Yellen, to lead the Federal Reserve. Trump interviewed Taylor last week. Taylor is known as a proponent of Taylor rule, which favors that the Fed funds rate should be much higher than the current target of 1.0 - 1.25 percent. Trump plans to interview Janet Yellen on Thursday about staying on as Fed chair. Yellen's term ends in February. Traders are looking forward to the release of industrial production, along with homebuilder confidence and import and export prices due today for more direction. The greenback advanced to weekly highs of 0.9792 against the franc and 1.1755 against the euro, from its early lows of 0.9748 and 1.1800, respectively. The next possible resistance for the greenback is seen around 0.99 against the franc and 1.14 against the euro. The greenback hit 4-day highs of 0.7833 against the aussie and 0.7156 against the kiwi, off its early low of 0.7858 and more than a 2-week low of 0.7207, respectively. Continuation of the greenback's uptrend may see it challenging resistance around 0.77 against the aussie and 0.70 against the kiwi. The greenback rose to 1.2552 against the loonie, from a low of 1.2513 hit at 6:00 pm ET. If the greenback rises further, 1.27 is likely seen as its next resistance level. The greenback rose back to 112.26 against the yen, heading to pierce to its early 4-day high of 112.30. The greenback is seen finding resistance around the 113.00 region. On the flip side, the greenback declined to 1.3268 against the pound, compared to 1.3250 hit late new York Monday. The greenback is poised to challenge support around the 1.34 area. Looking ahead, U.K. producer and consumer price indices and Eurozone final CPI for September as well as German ZEW economic sentiment index for October are set for release in the European session. U.S. import and export prices and industrial production for September, along with NAHB housing market index for October are due in the New York session. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de LONDON, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- London based fin-tech start-up, Nebeus has raised over $100k USD in three hours on day one of its pre-ICO. Nebeus.com - a crypto-currency platform enabling customers to buy, sell, store, remit, lend and borrow crypto-currency funds - launched its pre-ICO campaign to fund its ambitious plans. Its aim is to build a digital bank for the crypto-economy; creating an ecosystem based on blockchain, and allowing creation of products and services by third parties. Nebeus wants to develop a bridge between the crypto-currency world and existing banking infrastructure, by providing customers with bank cards linked to their Bitcoin accounts. Customers can open IBAN accounts for their crypto-currency operations, as well as purchase crypto-currencies by debit card and wire transfer in more then 10 different currencies. Also in development is a set of tools - including a smart-contracts library, SDK and API - which will allow companies of all types to venture into the world of cryptocurrencies; from pension fund providers, to factoring companies. And what about those already operating in the crypto-currency world? They, too, will be provided a bridge to the current banking infrastructure - be it an IBAN account for a mining company, exchange for alt-coins, or bitcoin-linked Debit card. Co-founder and Managing Director, Konstantin Zaripov says: "We're extremely excited to receive such a positive response from the investor community; it's very encouraging to know that so many share our belief, that the time for the first crypto-bank is now." The Nebeus Platform has gone from strength to strength since its beginnings in 2014, with the team striving to deliver a convenient, low-cost and highly efficient service that meet the demands and challenges of the ever-evolving crypto-currency market. Nebeus' ultimate vision is to continue building its financial eco-system, where those who add value are rewarded, and those who consume services and products can do so in a competitive and secure environment, built on blockchain technology. Follow the Nebeus ICO: w http://i.nebeus.com/ico/en/ Find out more >> Download the Whitepaper: http://www.nebeus.com/ico/whitepaper Media Contact: Oliver Johnson pr@nebeus.com +44(0)203-948-6052 VANCOUVER, BC--(Marketwired - October 17, 2017) - GoldQuest Mining Corp. (TSX VENTURE: GQC) (FRANKFURT: M1W) (BERLIN: M1W) ("GoldQuest" or the "Company") is pleased to report assay results from the latest 8-drill hole batch from its Cachimbo Discovery, a Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide (VMS) deposit located within the Company's 100% owned Tireo Concessions in the Dominican Republic. Cachimbo remains open in all directions. The Company's 50 km long land package also hosts the multi-million-ounce gold/copper Romero Project, 22 kms to the north-west, along with multiple targets areas identified by the Company. Highlights included the vertical hole, TIR-17-44 which intersected 21.0 m @ 7.86 g/t gold, 39.6 g/t silver, 0.17 % copper, 0.26 % lead and 1.81 % zinc. (10 g/t AuEq. *) within a wider mineralized envelope of 59.5 m @ 4.4 g/t AuEq. The richest horizon was found in a silica-barite matrix, associated with the upper parts of a VMS system from 11 metres below surface. The hole was collared approximately 300 m SE of the Cachimbo discovery hole TIR-16-09, which intersected 5 metres grading 14 g/t gold, 74 g/t silver, 12% zinc and 1% copper (see release dated January 10, 2017). "Our Cachimbo discovery continues to grow, as we seek the core of the VMS system," commented Bill Fisher, GoldQuest's CEO and Executive Chairman. "It is notable that the highest gold grades were found in a silica-barite horizon, the same horizon where the Company's geologists found up to 167 g/t gold at surface." The results are tabled below. Assays from the remaining seven intersections reported today lie within strata-bound poly-metallic massive and semi-massive sulphide horizons of the VMS system, reminiscent of the lesser mineralized halo surrounding the Company's Romero discovery. They were found within an anomalous gold halo between 150 and 240 metres in thickness, attesting to the size potential of the mineralization. Step out drilling is ongoing, seeking a potential copper-gold rich feeder system, analogous to the core of the Company's Romero deposit, which has not yet been recognized at Cachimbo. A plan map and cross-sections showing the Cachimbo drilling can be found at the following links. Plan Map: http://goldquestcorp.com/images/PlanView_Loma_El_Cachimbo.pdf Section B-B': http://goldquestcorp.com/images/Long_Section_Loma_El_Cachimbo_B-B.pdf Table 1. Tireo Drilling Intersections ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From To Length Au Ag Au Hole (m) (m) (m) g/t g/t Cu% Pb% Zn% Eq.* ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-37 125.12 178.31 53.19 0.52 3.17 0.02 0.02 0.17 0.73 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-38 99.50 121.14 21.64 0.26 2.72 0.02 0.01 0.10 0.40 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-39 138.52 156.15 17.63 0.47 1.19 0.02 0.01 0.03 0.54 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-40 256.00 282.02 26.02 0.40 1.12 0.01 0.01 0.03 0.45 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-41 82.30 95.11 12.81 1.59 8.18 0.01 0.06 0.22 1.92 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- and 137.76 154.79 17.03 1.17 6.96 0.02 0.04 0.08 1.37 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-42 72.70 90.50 17.80 1.93 18.92 0.06 0.11 0.68 2.87 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- and 109.61 135.09 25.48 1.01 6.55 0.02 0.05 0.09 1.22 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- and 136.80 147.28 10.48 0.95 0.88 0.01 0.04 0.08 1.07 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-43 74.75 79.63 4.88 0.60 4.75 0.04 0.05 0.30 0.98 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- and 85.38 116.00 30.62 0.73 4.21 0.01 0.04 0.08 0.89 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-44 11.04 70.50 59.46 3.27 18.94 0.07 0.40 0.73 4.44 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Incl. 11.04 54.84 43.80 4.25 22.66 0.09 0.38 0.96 5.67 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Incl. 11.04 32.00 20.96 7.86 39.60 0.17 0.26 1.81 10.21 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Incl. 11.04 23.12 12.08 12.59 62.62 0.26 0.12 1.69 15.19 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- *The Gold Equivalent (AuEq.) has been calculated using the following prices for metals (in USD): Gold $1300/oz; Silver $16/oz.; Copper $2.90/lb; Zinc $1.50/lb.; Lead $1.15/lb. Interval grades are calculated using uncapped assays. Gold values did not exceed 25.9 g/t Intervals may not represent true widths. There is insufficient drilling to determine the exact orientation of the mineralized zones at this time. Table 2. Collar locations and hole directions for Tireo holes --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hole Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Depth --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-37 266399.00 2097246.00 1207.40 -90 245.36 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-38 266314.22 2097333.63 1174.40 -90 199.64 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-39 266314.22 2097333.63 1174.40 225 -80 213.36 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-40 266375.00 2097371.00 1198.50 -90 291.08 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-41 266516.00 2097255.00 1141.49 -90 345.03 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-42 266516.00 2097255.00 1141.49 180 -75 309.37 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-43 266516.00 2097255.00 1141.49 225 -65 272.80 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- TIR-17-44 266578.00 2097162.00 1067.44 -90 262.13 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- QA/QC As part of the Company's Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures (QA/QC) the Company reviews results from Certified Standard Reference materials (CRSM or Standards), which are inserted at a rate of five per 100 samples. Within the results disclosed herein there were no samples with results outside of the recommended tolerances for the standards. In GoldQuest's drill programs, composite intervals were chosen using a combination of geological criteria and mineralization, averaging around two metres core length. The drill core is cut in half with one half of the core sample shipped to ACME Labs by GoldQuest technicians. The remaining half of the core is kept at the Company core shack for future assay verification, or any other further investigation. Assays within intervals below the 0.005 g/t detection limit for Au were given a zero value. All drill samples were prepared and screened by Bureau Veritas Ltd in Maimon Dominican Republic; metallic fire assay and multi-element ICP-MS were assayed by Bureau Veritas Ltd, Vancouver. Gold values are determined by standard fire assay with an AA finish, or, if over 10.0 g/t Au, were re-assayed and completed with a gravimetric finish. Copper and zinc values exceeding 0.2% were re-assayed with a 4-acid digestion and AAS finish. When zinc values exceeded 10% a classic titration was carried out for zinc. QA/QC included the insertion and continual monitoring of numerous standards, blanks and duplicates into the sample stream, at random intervals within each batch. The comprehensive GoldQuest Quality Assurance and Quality Control protocols can be viewed on GoldQuest's website at: http://www.goldquestcorp.com/index.php/corporate/corporate-governance. The information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. William Fisher, P. Geo., CEO and Executive Chairman of GoldQuest and a Qualified Person for the technical information in this press release under NI 43-101 standards. About GoldQuest GoldQuest is a Canadian based mineral exploration and development company with projects in the Dominican Republic. GoldQuest is traded on the TSX-V under the symbol GQC and in Frankfurt/Berlin with symbol M1W. The Company is well funded to carry out the exploration programs reported on in this release and to advance the development of its Romero gold/copper discovery, also located in the Tireo Formation of the Dominican Republic. Forward-looking statements: Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking information that involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the 2015 drill program, the results of the drill program and the interpretation of the results of the drill program, further drilling, the timing of drilling and assay results, mineral resource estimates, the merits of the Company's mineral properties, future drill programs and studies, and the Company's plans and exploration programs for its mineral properties, including the timing of such plans and programs. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "has proven", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "potential", "likelihood", "appears", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "at least", "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", "should", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks related to uncertainties inherent in drill results and the estimation of mineral resources; commodity prices; changes in general economic conditions; market sentiment; currency exchange rates; the Company's ability to continue as a going concern; the Company's ability to raise funds through equity financings; risks inherent in mineral exploration; risks related to operations in foreign countries; future prices of metals; failure of equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labor disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals; government regulation of mining operations; environmental risks; title disputes or claims; limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of litigation. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could affect the Company and may cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, do not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. All statements are made as of the date of this news release and the Company is under no obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statements except as required under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that the Company believes to be reasonable, including expectations regarding mineral exploration and development costs; expected trends in mineral prices and currency exchange rates; the accuracy of the Company's current mineral resource estimates; that the Company's activities will be in accordance with the Company's public statements and stated goals; that there will be no material adverse change affecting the Company or its properties; that all required approvals will be obtained and that there will be no significant disruptions affecting the Company or its properties. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. CONTACT INFORMATION GoldQuest Corp. Bill Fisher Executive Chairman and CEO - Toronto +1-647-271-4505 BFisher@GoldQuestCorp.com Red Cloud KS Chad Williams/Sebastian de Kloet Investor Relations 1-877-919-5979 CWilliams@redcloudKS.com Net Revenues of $9.2 Billion and Earnings per Diluted Share of $0.93 Continued Strength in Investment Banking and Solid Results in Sales and Trading Wealth Management Pre-Tax Margin of 26.5%;1,2 Record Fee-Based Assets of $1.0 Trillion Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) today reported net revenues of $9.2 billion for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 compared with $8.9 billion a year ago. For the current quarter, net income applicable to Morgan Stanley was $1.8 billion, or $0.93 per diluted share,3 compared with net income of $1.6 billion, or $0.81 per diluted share,3 for the same period a year ago. Compensation expense of $4.2 billion increased from $4.1 billion a year ago driven by higher revenues, while maintaining a disciplined compensation expense approach. Non-compensation expenses of $2.5 billion increased from $2.4 billion a year ago principally on higher volume driven expenses. The Firm's expense efficiency ratio for the current quarter was 73%.4 The effective tax rate for the current quarter of 28.1% reflects the impact of a recurring-type of discrete tax benefit of $11 million related to employee share-based payments and other net discrete tax benefits of $83 million primarily resulting from the remeasurement of certain deferred taxes. The annualized return on average common equity was 9.6 percent in the current quarter and 9.8 percent for the first nine months of 2017.5 James P. Gorman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Our third quarter results reflected the stability our Wealth Management, Investment Banking and Investment Management businesses bring when our Sales and Trading business faces a subdued environment. Our balanced business model and the consistent performance of our franchise enabled us to deliver solid returns for our shareholders." Summary of Segment Results (dollars in millions) Net Revenues Pre-Tax Income6 3Q 2017 3Q 2016 3Q 2017 3Q 2016 Institutional Securities $4,376 $4,553 $1,236 $1,383 Wealth Management $4,220 $3,881 $1,119 $901 Investment Management $675 $552 $131 $97 Firm $9,197 $8,909 $2,482 $2,381 Business Highlights Institutional Securities net revenues were $4.4 billion reflecting strong advisory results and solid performance in underwriting and sales and trading. Wealth Management net revenues were $4.2 billion and pre-tax margin was 26.5%. 2 Fee-based asset flows for the quarter were $15.8 billion. Fee-based asset flows for the quarter were $15.8 billion. Investment Management net revenues were $675 million with assets under management of $447 billion. Institutional Securities Institutional Securities reported pre-tax income from continuing operations of $1.2 billion compared with pre-tax income of $1.4 billion a year ago. Net revenues for the current quarter were $4.4 billion compared with $4.6 billion a year ago. Investment Banking revenues of $1.3 billion increased from $1.1 billion a year ago: Advisory revenues of $555 million increased from $504 million a year ago on higher levels of completed M&A activity. Equity underwriting revenues of $273 million increased from $236 million in the prior year quarter driven by higher revenues on follow-on offerings and IPOs. Fixed income underwriting revenues of $442 million increased from $364 million in the prior year quarter reflecting higher non-investment grade bond and loan fees. Sales and Trading net revenues of $2.9 billion compared with $3.2 billion a year ago: Equity sales and trading net revenues of $1.9 billion were essentially unchanged from a year ago reflecting higher results in our financing business offset by lower results in the execution services business driven by declines in derivatives. Fixed Income sales and trading net revenues of $1.2 billion decreased from $1.5 billion a year ago primarily driven by lower results in credit products and rates reflecting lower volatility and subdued activity in the current quarter. Other sales and trading net losses of $147 million compared with net losses of $192 million in the period a year ago primarily reflecting lower losses associated with corporate loan hedging activity. Other revenues of $143 million decreased from $243 million a year ago primarily reflecting lower gains associated with held for sale corporate loans. Compensation expense of $1.5 billion decreased from $1.7 billion a year ago on lower revenues. Non-compensation expenses of $1.6 billion for the current quarter increased from $1.5 billion a year ago, reflecting higher volume driven expenses and litigation costs. Morgan Stanley's average trading Value-at-Risk (VaR) measured at the 95% confidence level was $43 million compared with $51 million from the second quarter of 2017 and $42 million in the third quarter of the prior year.7 Wealth Management Wealth Management reported pre-tax income from continuing operations of $1.1 billion compared with $901 million in the third quarter of last year. The quarter's pre-tax margin was 26.5%.2 Net revenues for the current quarter were $4.2 billion compared with $3.9 billion a year ago. Asset management fee revenues of $2.4 billion increased from $2.1 billion a year ago reflecting higher asset levels and positive flows. Transactional revenues 8 of $739 million decreased from $791 million a year ago driven by lower fixed income trading revenues and a decrease in commission and fees. of $739 million decreased from $791 million a year ago driven by lower fixed income trading revenues and a decrease in commission and fees. Net interest income of $1.0 billion increased from $885 million a year ago driven by growth in bank lending and higher interest rates. Wealth Management client liabilities were $78 billion at quarter end compared with $70 billion in the prior year quarter. 9 Compensation expense for the current quarter of $2.3 billion increased from $2.2 billion a year ago primarily driven by higher revenues. Non-compensation expenses of $775 million were essentially unchanged from a year ago. Total client assets were $2.3 trillion and client assets in fee-based accounts were $1.0 trillion at the end of the quarter. Fee-based asset flows for the quarter were $15.8 billion. Wealth Management representatives of 15,759 produced average annualized revenue per representative of $1.1 million in the current quarter.10 Investment Management Investment Management reported pre-tax income from continuing operations of $131 million compared with $97 million in the third quarter of last year. Net revenues of $675 million increased from $552 million in the prior year. Asset management fee revenues of $568 million increased from $508 million in the prior year quarter on higher levels of assets under management. Investment revenues of $114 million increased from $51 million in the prior year quarter reflecting higher investment gains and carried interest in Infrastructure investments. Compensation expense for the current quarter of $311 million increased from $237 million a year ago driven by higher deferred compensation associated with increased revenues. Non-compensation expenses of $233 million increased from $218 million a year ago on higher brokerage and clearing expenses. Assets under management or supervision at September 30, 2017 were $447 billion compared with $417 billion a year ago. Capital As of September 30, 2017, the Firm's Common Equity Tier 1 and Tier 1 risk-based capital ratios under Standardized Approach transitional provisions were approximately 16.9% and 19.2%, respectively.11 As of September 30, 2017, the Firm estimates its pro forma fully phased-in Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio under the Standardized Approach and pro forma fully phased-in Supplementary Leverage Ratio to be approximately 16.3% and 6.5%, respectively.11,12,13 At September 30, 2017, book value and tangible book value per common share were $38.87 and $33.86,14 respectively, based on approximately 1.8 billion shares outstanding. Other Matters During the quarter ended September 30, 2017, the Firm repurchased approximately $1.25 billion of its common stock or approximately 27 million shares. The Board of Directors declared a $0.25 quarterly dividend per share, payable on November 15, 2017 to common shareholders of record on October 31, 2017. Morgan Stanley is a leading global financial services firm providing a wide range of investment banking, securities, wealth management and investment management services. With offices in more than 42 countries, the Firm's employees serve clients worldwide including corporations, governments, institutions and individuals. For further information about Morgan Stanley, please visit www.morganstanley.com. A financial summary follows. Financial, statistical and business-related information, as well as information regarding business and segment trends, is included in the Financial Supplement. Both the earnings release and the Financial Supplement are available online in the Investor Relations section at www.morganstanley.com. NOTICE: The information provided herein may include certain non-GAAP financial measures. The definition of such measures or reconciliation of such metrics to the comparable U.S. GAAP figures are included in this earnings release and the Financial Supplement, both of which are available on www.morganstanley.com. This earnings release contains forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and which reflect management's current estimates, projections, expectations or beliefs and which are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. For a discussion of additional risks and uncertainties that may affect the future results of the Firm, please see "Forward-Looking Statements" immediately preceding Part I, Item 1, "Competition" and "Supervision and Regulation" in Part I, Item 1, "Risk Factors" in Part I, Item 1A, "Legal Proceedings" in Part I, Item 3, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Part II, Item 7 and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk" in Part II, Item 7A in the Firm's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 and other items throughout the Form 10-K, the Firm's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and the Firm's Current Reports on Form 8-K, including any amendments thereto. 1 The Firm prepares its Consolidated Financial Statements using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP). From time to time, Morgan Stanley may disclose certain "non-GAAP financial measures" in the course of its earnings releases, earnings conference calls, financial presentations and otherwise. The Securities and Exchange Commission defines a "non-GAAP financial measure" as a numerical measure of historical or future financial performance, financial positions, or cash flows that is subject to adjustments that effectively exclude, or include amounts from the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Non-GAAP financial measures disclosed by Morgan Stanley are provided as additional information to investors and analysts in order to provide them with greater transparency about, or an alternative method for assessing, our financial condition, operating results, or prospective regulatory capital requirements. These measures are not in accordance with, or a substitute for, U.S. GAAP and may be different from or inconsistent with non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. Whenever we refer to a non-GAAP financial measure, we will also generally define it or present the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, along with a reconciliation of the differences between the non-GAAP financial measure we reference and such comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure. 2 Pre-tax margin is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Firm considers useful for investors and analysts to assess operating performance. Pre-tax margin represents income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes divided by net revenues. 3 Includes preferred dividends and other adjustments related to the calculation of earnings per share for the third quarter of 2017 and 2016 of approximately $93 million and $79 million, respectively. 4 The Firm Expense Efficiency Ratio is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Firm considers useful for investors and analysts to assess operating performance. The Firm Expense Efficiency Ratio represents total non-interest expenses as a percentage of net revenues. 5 Annualized return on average common equity is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Firm considers useful for investors and analysts to allow better comparability of period-to-period operating performance. The calculation of return on average common equity uses annualized net income applicable to Morgan Stanley less preferred dividends for the current quarter and first nine months of 2017 as a percentage of average common equity for each respective period. 6 Pre-tax income represents income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes. 7 VaR represents the loss amount that one would not expect to exceed, on average, more than five times every one hundred trading days in the Firm's trading positions if the portfolio were held constant for a one-day period. Further discussion of the calculation of VaR and the limitations of the Firm's VaR methodology is disclosed in Part II, Item 7A "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk" included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 ("2016 Form 10-K"). Refer to page 7 of Morgan Stanley's Financial Supplement accompanying this release for the VaR disclosure. 8 Transactional revenues include investment banking, trading, and commissions and fee revenues. 9 Wealth Management client liabilities reflect U.S. Bank Subsidiaries' lending and broker dealer margin activity. 10 Annualized revenue per Wealth Management representative is defined as annualized revenue divided by average representative headcount. 11 The Firm's binding risk-based capital ratios for regulatory purposes are the lower of the capital ratios computed under the (i) standardized approaches for calculating credit risk risk-weighted assets (RWAs) and market risk RWAs (the "Standardized Approach"); and (ii) applicable advanced approaches for calculating credit risk, market risk and operational risk RWAs (the "Advanced Approach"). At September 30, 2017, the binding ratio is based on the Standardized Approach transitional rules. For prior periods, the binding ratio was based on the Advanced Approach transitional rules. For information on the calculation of regulatory capital and ratios for prior periods, please refer to Part II, Item 7 "Liquidity and Capital Resources Regulatory Requirements" in the Firm's 2016 10-K and Part I, Item 2 "Liquidity and Capital Resources Regulatory Requirements" in the Firm's 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017. 12 The pro forma fully phased-in Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio and pro forma fully phased-in Supplementary Leverage Ratio are non-GAAP financial measures that the Firm considers to be useful measures for investors and analysts to evaluate compliance with new regulatory capital requirements that have not yet become effective. 13 The Firm is required to disclose information related to its supplementary leverage ratio, which through the end of 2017 will include the effects of transitional provisions. The supplementary leverage ratio will become effective as a capital standard on January 1, 2018. Specifically, beginning on January 1, 2018, the Firm must maintain a Tier 1 supplementary leverage capital buffer of at least 2% in addition to the 3% minimum supplementary leverage ratio (for a total of at least 5%), in order to avoid limitations on capital distributions, including dividends and stock repurchases, and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers. The Firm's pro forma Supplementary Leverage Ratio estimate utilizes a fully phased-in Tier 1 capital numerator of approximately $70.2 billion and a fully phased-in supplementary leverage exposure denominator of approximately $1.09 trillion. The Firm's estimates are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from estimates based on these regulations. Further, these expectations should not be taken as projections of what the Firm's supplementary leverage ratios or earnings, assets or exposures will actually be at future dates. See "Risk Factors" in Part I, Item 1A in the 2016 Form 10-K for a discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect the future results of the Firm. 14 Tangible common equity and tangible book value per common share are non-GAAP financial measures that the Firm considers to be useful measures of capital adequacy for investors and analysts. Tangible common equity equals common equity less goodwill and intangible assets net of allowable mortgage servicing rights deduction. Tangible book value per common share equals tangible common equity divided by period end common shares outstanding. Morgan Stanley Consolidated Financial Summary (unaudited, dollars in millions, except for per share data) Quarter Ended Percentage Change From: Nine Months Ended Percentage Sept 30, 2017 June 30, 2017 Sept 30, 2016 June 30, 2017 Sept 30, 2016 Sept 30, 2017 Sept 30, 2016 Change Net revenues Institutional Securities 4,376 4,762 4,553 (8 (4 14,290 12,845 11 Wealth Management 4,220 4,151 3,881 2 9 12,429 11,360 9 Investment Management 675 665 552 2 22 1,949 1,612 21 Intersegment Eliminations (74 (75 (77 1 4 (223 (207 (8 Net revenues 9,197 9,503 8,909 (3 3 28,445 25,610 11 Income (loss) from continuing operations before tax Institutional Securities 1,236 1,443 1,383 (14 (11 4,409 3,797 16 Wealth Management 1,119 1,057 901 6 24 3,149 2,546 24 Investment Management 131 142 97 (8 35 376 259 45 Intersegment Eliminations (4 0 0 (2 0 Income (loss) from continuing operations before tax 2,482 2,642 2,381 (6 4 7,932 6,602 20 Net Income (loss) applicable to Morgan Stanley Institutional Securities 973 992 966 (2 1 3,179 2,545 25 Wealth Management 698 665 564 5 24 2,010 1,573 28 Investment Management 114 100 67 14 70 281 195 44 Intersegment Eliminations (4 0 0 (2 0 Net Income (loss) applicable to Morgan Stanley 1,781 1,757 1,597 1 12 5,468 4,313 27 Earnings (loss) applicable to Morgan Stanley common shareholders 1,688 1,587 1,518 6 11 5,115 3,999 28 Financial Metrics: Earnings per basic share 0.95 0.89 0.83 7 14 2.86 2.15 33 Earnings per diluted share 0.93 0.87 0.81 7 15 2.79 2.11 32 Return on average common equity 9.6 9.1 8.7 9.8 7.7 Return on average common equity excluding DVA 9.5 9.0 8.7 9.7 7.7 Book value per common share 38.87 38.22 37.11 38.87 37.11 Tangible book value per common share 33.86 33.24 32.13 33.86 32.13 Notes: Refer to End Notes, Definition of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Measures and Definition of Performance Metrics on pages 13 15 from the Financial Supplement for additional information related to the calculation of the financial metrics. 7 Morgan Stanley Consolidated Income Statement Information (unaudited, dollars in millions) Quarter Ended Percentage Change From: Nine Months Ended Percentage Sept 30, 2017 June 30, 2017 Sept 30, 2016 June 30, 2017 Sept 30, 2016 Sept 30, 2017 Sept 30, 2016 Change Revenues: Investment banking 1,380 1,530 1,225 (10 13 4,455 3,556 25 Trading 2,704 2,931 2,609 (8 4 8,870 7,420 20 Investments 167 163 87 2 92 495 179 177 Commissions and fees 937 1,027 991 (9 (5 2,997 3,066 (2 Asset management, distribution and admin. fees 3,026 2,902 2,686 4 13 8,695 7,943 9 Other 200 199 308 1 (35 628 631 Total non-interest revenues 8,414 8,752 7,906 (4 6 26,140 22,795 15 Interest income 2,340 2,106 1,734 11 35 6,411 5,148 25 Interest expense 1,557 1,355 731 15 113 4,106 2,333 76 Net interest 783 751 1,003 4 (22 2,305 2,815 (18 Net revenues 9,197 9,503 8,909 (3 3 28,445 25,610 11 Non-interest expenses: Compensation and benefits 4,169 4,252 4,097 (2 2 12,887 11,795 9 Non-compensation expenses: Occupancy and equipment 330 333 339 (1 (3 990 997 (1 Brokerage, clearing and exchange fees 522 525 491 (1 6 1,556 1,440 8 Information processing and communications 459 433 456 6 1 1,320 1,327 (1 Marketing and business development 128 155 130 (17 (2 419 418 Professional services 534 561 489 (5 9 1,622 1,550 5 Other 573 602 526 (5 9 1,719 1,481 16 Total non-compensation expenses 2,546 2,609 2,431 (2 5 7,626 7,213 6 Total non-interest expenses 6,715 6,861 6,528 (2 3 20,513 19,008 8 Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes 2,482 2,642 2,381 (6 4 7,932 6,602 20 Income tax provision (benefit) from continuing operations 697 846 749 (18 (7 2,358 2,160 9 Income (loss) from continuing operations 1,785 1,796 1,632 (1 9 5,574 4,442 25 Gain (loss) from discontinued operations after tax 6 (5 8 (25 (21 1 Net income (loss) 1,791 1,791 1,640 9 5,553 4,443 25 Net income applicable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests 10 34 43 (71 (77 85 130 (35 Net income (loss) applicable to Morgan Stanley 1,781 1,757 1,597 1 12 5,468 4,313 27 Preferred stock dividend Other 93 170 79 (45 18 353 314 12 Earnings (loss) applicable to Morgan Stanley common shareholders 1,688 1,587 1,518 6 11 5,115 3,999 28 Pre-tax profit margin 27 28 27 28 26 Compensation and benefits as a of net revenues 45 45 46 45 46 Non-compensation expenses as a of net revenues 28 27 27 27 28 Firm expense efficiency ratio 73 72 73 72 74 Effective tax rate from continuing operations 28.1 32.0 31.5 29.7 32.7 Notes: Refer to End Notes, Definition of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Measures and Definition of Performance Metrics on pages 13 15 from the Financial Supplement for additional information. 8 View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005917/en/ Contacts: Morgan Stanley Media Relations: Michele Davis, 212-761-9621 Investor Relations: Sharon Yeshaya, 212-761-1632 HONG KONG, CHINA -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan is ready for a red-carpet entry to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. Visitors can get up close with the first youngest Indian Bollywood superstar in 2018 at the famed attraction at The Peak. Varun Dhawan made his acting debut in the 2012 romantic comedy Student of the Year and received nomination of Best Male Debut on The Filmfare Awards. Starring in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and ABCD 2, he began to create and garner more attention. In 2015, Varun won his first IIFA (International Indian Film Academy) Awards for Best Performance in a Comic Role for his performance as Seenu in Main Tera Hero and has been nominated for Best Actor for his role in Badlapur in 2016. Recently, Varun Dhawan was invited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be part of Swachh Bharat Mission, a campaign by the Indian Government on urban sanitation, and on promotion tour for his latest movie, Judwaa 2. Varun's figure will be the world-first figure in Madame Tussauds history. "It was a great experience to work with Madame Tussauds. I am so excited to get my wax figure in Hong Kong!" commented Varun. A group of skilled Madame Tussauds sculpting team specially travelled to Mumbai to meet Varun and conduct a detailed sitting process. More than 200 measurements were taken, the team also matched the hair and eye colour of the actor. Varun also worked closely with the team and kept sharing his ideas on the pose of the figure. Jenny You, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong said, "Varun Dhawan is one of the most requested figures and we are delighted to be partnering with this Bollywood great actor. Hong Kong is a multicultural metropolis which makes us a unique brand. Visitors can meet both Hollywood, Asian and also Bollywood stars here at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. The worldwide popularity of Bollywood films makes people in Hong Kong increasingly embrace Bollywood culture. Besides, India is the fourth largest ethnic group in Hong Kong. As the first youngest Indian Bollywood actor to be waxed, we are confident that Varun's figure will bring visitors an all-new experience." "IIFA is proud to have started a great relationship with Madame Tussauds with the first waxwork being announced in 2000 at the premiere edition of IIFA in London. This relationship has helped strengthen and seen the growth in outreach and popularity of the Bollywood figures at this leading global attraction as has the popularity of Indian films grown internationally. To see it progress so much over the years to lead into the new generation of stars in India today like Varun being honoured with a waxwork is wonderful and we look forward to working together to bring many more top celebrities of Indian cinema to Madame Tussauds around the world," Andre Timmins, Director of IIFA, commented. Varun Dhawan will be the 4th Indian figure to join Madame Tussauds Hong Kong with Mahatma Gandhi, Narendra Modi and Amitabh Bachchan, currently on display. Varun will unveil his figure in Hong Kong in the first quarter of next year. Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3175139 Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3175142 Bernadette Chow Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2849 2763/ 6434 2756 Email: Email Contact CLEVELAND, OH -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Shaker, the market leader in engaging, realistic job previews and custom simulations for pre-employment testing, today announced the addition of Isaac Thompson, Ph.D. in the role of principal data scientist. Thompson joins the company as part of Shaker's ongoing commitment to revolutionizing assessments through the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to selection science. Eric Sydell, vice president, Research and Innovation for Shaker shared, "We are thrilled to welcome one of the field's preeminent data scientists to our team. Not only is Isaac a pioneering machine learning researcher, he is an experienced industrial-organizational psychologist, giving him a very rare set of cross-functional abilities. We are excited to add Isaac's machine learning perspective to our advanced research work and product set." Thompson's interest in analytics started at a young age, working for his father's trade data startup. He holds a Ph.D. in industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology from North Carolina State University, plus master's and bachelor's degrees from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. His areas of passion and research include measurement, machine learning, deep learning, big data, Bayesian statistics and open source. Throughout his studies, Thompson held a number of positions, most recently working as a data scientist and organizational researcher. In his role at Shaker, Thompson will help the company discover new assessment and evaluation methods. Thompson commented, "I am honored and humbled to join Shaker. The company's leading-edge technology offers the perfect platform to push the boundaries of what is possible in employee selection. Partnering with a large crew of brilliant Ph.D. I-O psychologists and visionary leadership, together we are shaping the future of employee assessment." ABOUT SHAKER Shaker's Virtual Job Tryout (VJT) technology enables recruiters to combine the best of predictive analytics and human judgment. Recruiters identify best-fit candidates with more precision, increase new-hire retention and improve quality of hire. VJT technology delivers pre-employment assessments as day-in-the-life experiences that educate and engage while obtaining a work sample that predicts job fit and competencies critical for success. VJT technology is available in Standard and Enterprise (custom) configurations. It has been deployed in most industries for entry-level to mid-management positions. More information can be found at shakercg.com. Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3174880 IKEA, the world's leading home furnishings retailer, today announced that its second Dallas-Fort Worth-area store will open at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, December 13, 2017 in Grand Prairie, TX, expanding the IKEA U.S. presence. The 290,000 square-foot future IKEA Grand Prairie will be the fourth store in Texas, and 47th in the U.S. Collin County's IKEA Frisco opened in 2005 as the first DFW IKEA store. Other Texas IKEA stores are in Houston and Round Rock, with a San Antonio-area store planned to open summer 2019 in Live Oak, and a Fort Worth store to open as the third DFW-area location, also in summer 2019. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005328/en/ IKEA Grand Prairie to Open on December 13, 2017 (Photo: Business Wire) "We are thrilled by the excellent construction progress made to date, and believe we can complete the remaining milestones and interior build-up by the end of November. Besides furnishing our store, we also are focused on continuing recruitment and training of all the coworkers joining the IKEA family," noted Matt Hunsicker, manager of the future store. "We look forward to introducing more DFW customers to a whole new way of shopping for the home or just to bringing the IKEA experience closer to them." IKEA Grand Prairie will feature nearly 10,000 exclusively designed items, 50 inspirational room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children's play area, and a restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as salmon plates, meatballs with lingonberries, Swedish pastries and American dishes. The single-level store will reflect the unique architectural design for which IKEA is known worldwide and will include one of the largest retail solar rooftops in Texas. In addition to the more than 500 jobs created from construction, approximately 250 coworkers will have joined the IKEA family when the new store opens. Diverse positions at this employer of choice are still available. Interested candidates should visit IKEA-USA.com to apply. Customers can begin lining-up at the store on Monday, December 11, 2017 - 48 hours in advance of the doors' opening on December 13 and soon can learn of more grand opening plans and promotions at IKEA-USA.com/Grand Prairie. About IKEA Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function, at affordable prices. IKEA incorporates responsible social practices and sustainability into its business model, and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. There are currently more than 400 IKEA stores in 49 countries, including 45 in the U.S. IKEA has been ranked among "Best Companies to Work For" and, as further investment in its coworkers, has raised its own minimum wage twice in two years. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005328/en/ Contacts: IKEA Latisha Bracy, Expansion Public Affairs (610) 834-0180, x. 5615 BRUSSELS, Belgium and REDWOOD CITY, California, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- SaaS executive with 12 years' experience in leadership roles steps up into global position Selligent, a provider of relationship marketing SaaS solutions based on consumer insights, today announced the promotion of Roy Jugessurto Senior Vice President, Global Sales. In his previous role as VP, Sales Northern Europe, Roy delivered consistent double-digit revenue growth across the region and oversaw many of Selligent's biggest deals, including Ocado, Bol.com and AutoTrader. John Hernandez, CEO of Selligent comments: "Roy's track record and expertise in creating and nurturing high performance sales teams is second to none. The Board and I have every confidence in Roy's ability to apply his deep experience on a global scale and to take a key role in driving our next phase of global hyper-growth." Roy Jugessur, Senior Vice President, Global Sales of Selligent comments: "I look forward to leading Selligent's global sales efforts. Selligent has the right strategy to deliver for clients now and in the future, providingthe most integrated solution on the market." Since joining the business three years ago, Jugessur has displayed a passion for building and developing high performance teams and has underlined his proven ability to create, articulate and execute Selligent's marketplace vision. Jugessur has spent the last 12 years in the SaaS space - primarily in leadership roles, and most notably serving as part of the European Executive Management Team for Experian CheetahMail, growing its revenues from $3m-$35m in just over 3.5 years, before leading Experian Marketing Services' Strategic Digital initiative. About Selligent Selligent's omnichannel marketing platform empowers marketers to engage with consumers using relevant insights. Our technology was built to support our Consumer-First Marketing philosophy, which makes consumer needs the trigger for all brand actions. With Selligent, B2C brands can bridge the gap between big data and real-time campaign execution, creating valuable interactions across channels that become more relevant over time. Built around a universal consumer profile that paints a complete picture of each consumer by incorporating all of her brand interactions, Selligent's natively integrated platform meets the needs of relationship marketers better than any solution on the market. Today's entitled consumers expect relevant and valued messages in the moments that matter, and Selligent's solutions make that possible. More than 700 brands across retail, travel, automotive, publishing, and financial services rely on Selligent's proven platform, including InterContinental Hotels Group and ING. With 10 offices across the United States and Europe and more than 50 agency partners and resellers, Selligent serves over 30 countries with local, personalized service. Learn more athttp://www.selligent.comand connect with the team atTwitter,LinkedIn, and ourblog. Results Support the Continuity of Good Near-Surface Mineralisation in the Central Core and Support Extension of Higher Grades to the North of Current Central Core Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 17, 2017) - Los Andes Copper Ltd. (TSXV: LA) ("Los Andes", or the "Company") is very pleased to present the consolidated results for the 2017 campaign. These results further support the new geological model, with significant intersections in the early diorite porphyry and hydrothermal breccias. The drilling also extends the mineralisation to the north of the central core, and shows continuity of higher grade supergene mineralisation. Some of the key intervals from this campaign are: Hole Number Length (m) Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-01A 302.1 71.9 374.0 0.55 115 1.4 0.59 including 134.0 226.0 360.0 0.60 150 1.5 0.65 V2017-04 90.0 92.0 182.0 0.51 127 1.6 0.56 V2017-05 90.0 170.0 260.0 0.49 231 1.0 0.56 V2017-05 80.0 798.0 878.0 0.53 285 1.9 0.63 V2017-06 440.0 64.0 504.0 0.51 164 1.1 0.56 including 56.0 76.0 132.0 0.81 72 1.6 0.85 V2017-07 102.0 44.0 146.0 0.62 157 1.5 0.66 V2017-09B 77.6 64.4 142.0 0.52 153 1.3 0.57 V2017-10 506.0 486.0 992.0 0.57 357 1.1 0.67 including 76.0 514.0 590.0 0.69 522 1.5 0.84 including 88.0 684.0 772.0 0.70 278 1.4 0.78 including 60.0 924.0 984.0 0.73 341 1.5 0.83 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. The 2017 drill campaign has: Continued to validate the new geological model Confirming the importance of the early diorite porphyry and hydrothermal breccias in controlling the higher grade mineralisation of the deposit. Confirmed near surface higher grade supergene enriched mineralisation Area of 400 by 400 metres where all the drill holes have average supergene grades of greater than 0.5% Cu. Includes the following drill holes from the 2015/2017 drill campaigns: V2015-03 - 17.9 m @ 0.78% Cu from 44.1 m down-hole V2015-05 - 78 m @ 0.56% Cu from 68 m down-hole V2015-08 - 92 m @ 0.71% Cu from 92 m down-hole V2017-06 - 92 m @ 0.66% Cu from 46 m down-hole V2017-07 - 98 m @ 0.61% Cu from 44 m down-hole V2017-09B - 77 m @ 0.52% Cu from 64.4 m down-hole Demonstrated that the early diorite porphyry and hydrothermal breccias extend a further 250 metres to the north, than previously shown. In the northern part of the project, which was previously classified as barren, includes the following drill holes: V2017-10 - 506 m @ 0.57 % Cu from 486 m down-hole, V2017-05 - 90 m @ 0.49 % Cu from 170 m down-hole, Historical drill hole V-39 - 40.5 m @ 0.55 % Cu from a down-hole depth of 399 m to the end of the drill hole) Showed high grade mineralisation over a vertical distance of 825 meters, within the early diorite porphyry and hydrothermal breccias. This mineralisation remains open to the north. Extended the high grade primary mineralisation identified during the 2015/2016 drilling campaign The drill hole V2015-05 intersected 52 m @ 0.81 % Cu from a down-hole depth of 544 m. The drill hole V2017-02 was drilled underneath V2015-05 and intersected 88 m @ 0.60 % Cu from a down-hole depth of 680 m. This demonstrated the vertical continuity of this well mineralised primary mineralisation over 250 metres vertically. The drill hole V2015-08 intersected 502 m @ 0.63 % Cu from a downhole depth of 130 m showing high grade continuity from near surface to depth. Cautionary Statement: All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Background Historical drilling was carried out on the Vizcachitas project in three exploration campaigns during 1993, 1996/1997 and 2007/2008. However, the higher grade central core had only been drilled in the 1990's campaigns and with generally shallower drill holes, therefore not properly reflecting the potential of this core area. During 2014, a complete review of the historical information was performed to better understand the project, including re-logging all of the 146 drill holes located within the property. The re-logging was led by Gonzalo Saldias, a Chilean geologist and one of the most recognized experts in Chilean porphyry systems. This detailed review showed that the historical logging and geological model had not properly identified the importance of the higher grade early diorite porphyry and hydrothermal breccias. The re-logging showed that these higher grade geological units extend over a distance of 1,400 metres north-south and 700 metres east-west. The mapping showed that these breccias have grades increasing with depth and demonstrates the potential for higher grades below the historical drilling. In 2015, Los Andes began a drill program to support a new geological model and to demonstrate the extent of the central core mineralisation. A first stage of this exploration campaign was completed in 2015/2016, with eight diamond drill holes totaling 3,610 metres. During 2017, Los Andes carried out a second stage of this campaign with eleven drill holes totaling 8,262 metres. Location of Drill Holes: Hole Easting Northing Elevation (metres) Azimut (degrees) Inclination (degrees) Final depth (metres) V2017-01 365,778 6,413,544 2,003 110 -60 (69.90) Abandoned V2017-01A 365,786 6,413,534 2,003 105 -60 851.25 V2017-02 366,278 6,413,255 2,090 290 -65 1,030.60 V2017-03 365,936 6,413,856 2,049 290 -80 (62.00) Abandoned V2017-04 366.200 6,413,056 1,978 110 -70 653.00 V2015-08 Ex 365.159 6,413,542 2,154 290 -75 1,001.00 V2017-05 365,996 6,413,879 2,080 270 -80 931.90 V2017-06 366,037 6,413,538 2,073 110 -65 857.00 V2017-07 366,099 6,413,337 2,046 110 -60 721.10 V2017-08 365,996 6,413,879 2,080 15 -70 400.25 V2017-09 365,785 6,413,377 1,993 120 -70 (85.50) Abandoned V2017-09B 365,785 6,413,382 1,993 120 -75 804.20 V2017-10 365,682 6,413,878 2,040 65 -75 1,001.00 V2017-11 365,745 6,413,745 2,024 85 -75 735.90 All coordinates are in UTM WGS84 A drill hole location plan and representative sections are available on our website: www.losandescopper.com Summary of Drill Holes Drill Hole V2017-01A This hole was drilled on the south-western part of the central core with a south-eastern direction. The drill hole is 150 metres north of the drill holes V2015-03 and V2015-05. The drill hole is also 100 metres south of the drill hole V2015-08. The top of bedrock was intersected at 71.9 metres in diorite porphyry with disseminated chalcopyrite, which continued to a depth of 238 metres. Within this sequence, there is secondary enrichment from 134 to 162 metres where the average grade is 0.61 % Cu, 42 ppm Mo and 1.6 g/t Ag. At a depth of 238 metres, the rock type changes to medium grained diorite and continues to a depth of 513.15 metres. Within this sequence, there is a well mineralised interval running from 226 to 360 metres with 0.60 % Cu, 150 ppm and 1.5 g/t Ag. From a depth of 513.15 metres to the end (at depth of 851.25 metres), the hole is primarily in igneous breccias and hydrothermal breccias. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-01A: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-01A 71.9 374.0 302.1 0.55 115 1.4 0.59 including 134.0 162.0 28.0 0.61 42 1.6 0.63 including 226.0 360.0 134.0 0.60 150 1.5 0.65 V2017-01A 702.0 720.0 18.0 0.41 367 1.0 0.51 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-02 Drill hole V2017-02 is located on the same section as drill hole V2015-05 and V2015-03, and is 100 metres to the south of section for V2017-01A. The hole was drilled in a north-western direction at an inclination of -65 degrees so that it is approximately 200 metres below drill hole V2015-05 on the section. The hole was drilled to test the vertical extent of the mineralisation identified in V2015-05 and the north-south strike length of the early diorite porphyry intersected in V2015-08. The top of bedrock was intersected at a depth of 63 metres in a hydrothermal breccia with a high pyrite to chalcopyrite ratio. At a depth of 138 metres, there is a well mineralised andesite with 22 m @ 0.53 % Cu, 103 ppm Mo and 1.0 g/t Ag (0.57 % CuEq). From depth of 205 metres, there is a long sequence of andesites and hydrothermal breccias down to a depth of 428 metres. This interval demonstrates the vertical extent of a similar sequence of rock types intersected in the drill hole V2015-05. At a depth of 683 metres, the hole intersected the early diorite porphyry as proposed by the new geological model. Assays for this interval indicate 88 m @ 0.60 % Cu, 389 ppm Mo, 1.5 g/t Ag (0.72 % CuEq). The drill hole then continued in a sequence of later stage tonalities, granodiorites and diorites to a final depth of 1030.6 metres. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-02: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-02 138.0 160.0 22.0 0.53 103 1.0 0.57 V2017-02 222.0 276.0 54.0 0.55 126 1.7 0.60 including 222.0 242.0 20.0 0.72 86 2.2 0.77 V2017-02 310.0 326.0 16.0 0.50 264 1.4 0.58 V2017-02 402.0 428.0 26.0 0.50 136 1.4 0.55 V2017-02 680.0 768.0 88.0 0.60 389 1.5 0.72 including 724.0 768.0 44.0 0.66 449 1.6 0.79 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-04 This hole was drilled 200 metres to the south of drill hole V2017-02 in a south-eastern direction. The hole was planned to test the vertical extension of the hydrothermal breccias identified in the drill holes to the east. The top of bed rock was intersected at a depth of 77 metres. There is a sequence of andesites with hydrothermal and igneous breccias down to a depth of 329 metres. From a down-hole depth of 92 metres, the hole intersected 90 m @ 0.51 % Cu, 127 ppm Mo and 1.6 g/t Ag (0.56 % CuEq) and from a down-hole depth of 142 metres, the drill hole intersected 30 m @ 0.60 % Cu, 121 ppm Mo and 1.8 g/t Ag (0.65 % CuEq). From a depth of 329 metres, this hole intersected a long sequence of intermineral lower grade granodiorite until the end of the hole at a depth of 653 metres. The hole did not intersect the andesite host rock as expected, demonstrating that the intrusive system is open to the east at this point. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-04: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-04 92.0 182.0 90.0 0.51 127 1.6 0.56 including 142.0 172.0 30.0 0.60 121 1.8 0.65 V2017-04 198.0 216.0 18.0 0.48 75 1.7 0.52 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2015-08Ex The hole V2015-08 was drilled to a depth of 725.5 metres during the 2015/2016 drill campaign but was stopped at this depth due to budget restrictions. The casing was left in the hole so during this campaign we were able to re-enter the hole and extend it. The hydrothermal breccia that was intersected in 2016 at a depth of 712 metres continues through to a depth of 745 metres. From a depth of 745 metres to the end of the drill hole at a depth of 1,001 metres, the drill hole intersected a long sequence of the target early diorite porphyry. This included, from a down-hole depth of 804 metres, 26 m @ 0.50 % Cu, 441 ppm Mo and 1.1 g/t Ag (0.62 % CuEq) and, from a down-hole depth of 946 metres, 28 m @ 0.53 % Cu, 361 ppm Mo and 1.0 g/t Ag (0.64 % CuEq). Key intersections from drill hole V2015-08Ex: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2015-08Ex 804.0 830.0 26.0 0.50 441 1.1 0.62 V2015-08Ex 910.0 940.0 30.0 0.45 423 1.0 0.56 V2015-08Ex 946.0 974.0 28.0 0.53 361 1.0 0.64 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-05 The hole V2017-05 was drilled in the northern part of the project in a westerly direction. The aim of the hole was to drill from the unmineralised diatreme out towards the early diorite porphyry that had been intersected in drill hole V-39 back in the 1990s. The re-interpretation of the drill hole V-39 with the well mineralised intersection of the early diorite porphyry was key to identifying the extension to the north of higher grade mineralization. From a depth of 60 metres, there is a sequence of unmineralised diatreme and post mineral dacite dykes to a down-hole depth of 169 metres. From a down-hole depth of 170 metres, the drill hole intersected the early diorite porphyry with 28 me @ 0.55 % Cu, 234 ppm Mo and 0.9 g/t Ag (0.62 % CuEq). From a depth of 198 metres, a sequence of early diorite porphyry, fine diorite and medium grain diorites extends to a downhole depth of 377 metres. Within this sequence, the hole intersected 48 m @ 0.55 % Cu, 248 ppm Mo and 1.1 g/t Ag (0.63 % CuEq) from a down-hole depth of 212 m and 18 m @ 0.53 % Cu, 151 ppm Mo and 1.2 g/t Ag (0.58 % CuEq) from a downhole depth of 286 m. From a depth of 377 metres to depth of 658 metres, the drill hole intersected a hydrothermal breccia and then, from 658 metres to 904 metres, the hole intersected medium grained dirorites and igneous breccias. From 904 metres to the end of the hole at 931.9 metres, there is an intermineral tonalite intrusive. This sequence includes 80 m @ 0.53 % Cu, 285 ppm Mo and 1.9 g/t Ag (0.63 % CuEq) from a down-hole depth of 798 m. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-05: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-05 170.0 260.0 90.0 0.49 231 1.0 0.56 including 170.0 198.0 28.0 0.55 234 0.9 0.62 including 212.0 260.0 48.0 0.55 248 1.1 0.63 V2017-05 286.0 304.0 18.0 0.53 151 1.2 0.58 V2017-05 368.0 390.0 22.0 0.53 179 1.4 0.59 V2017-05 660.0 704.0 44.0 0.49 192 1.1 0.55 V2017-05 798.0 878.0 80.0 0.53 285 1.9 0.63 including 840.0 876.0 36.0 0.59 183 2.1 0.66 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-06 This hole was drilled in a south-easterly direction underneath V2015-08 which was drilled in a north-easterly direction. The aim of this hole was to confirm the good mineralisation identified in V2015-08, and then to test the eastward extension of this mineralisation. The top of bedrock was intersected at a depth of 15 metres. There is a sequence of andesite and hydrothermal breccias to a depth of 802 metres. From a down-hole depth of 64 metres, there are 440 m @ 0.51 % Cu, 164 ppm Mo and 1.1 g/t Ag (0.56 % CuEq) in andesites. This interval includes 56 m @ 0.81 % Cu, 72 ppm Mo and 1.6 g/t Ag (0.85 % CuEq) from a down-hole depth of 76m. At a depth of 802 metres, the hole intersected an intermineral tonalite intrusive. The hole was stopped at a depth of 857 metres. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-06: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-06 64.0 504.0 440.0 0.51 164 1.1 0.56 including 76.0 132.0 56.0 0.81 72 1.6 0.85 including 182.0 204.0 22.0 0.63 129 1.5 0.68 including 238.0 258.0 20.0 0.59 280 1.4 0.68 including 376.0 406.0 30.0 0.64 292 1.5 0.73 including 456.0 492.0 36.0 0.62 265 1.4 0.70 V2017-06 588.0 654.0 66.0 0.53 294 1.1 0.61 including 606.0 634.0 28.0 0.61 219 1.3 0.68 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-07 This hole was drilled in a south-easterly direction underneath drill holes V2015-05 and V2017-02, which were drilled in a north-easterly direction. The aim of this drill hole was to confirm the good mineralisation identified in these other holes and then to test the eastward extension of this mineralisation. The top of bedrock was intersected at a depth of 33 metre and the hole continued through andesite and hydrothermal breccias to final depth of 721 metres. From a down-hole depth of 44 metres, the drill hole intersected 102 m @ 0.62 % Cu, 157 ppm Mo and 1.5 g/t Ag (0.66 % CuEq) in andesites. Mineralisation continues to a down-hole depth of 344 metres averaging 0.48 % Cu, 135 ppm Mo and 1.2 g/t Ag (0.53 % CuEq) over 300 m. The mineralisation below this depth decreases as the drill hole intersected andesites and a post mineral dacite dyke. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-07: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-07 44.0 146.0 102.0 0.62 157 1.5 0.66 V2017-07 284.0 312.0 28.0 0.50 232 1.3 0.57 V2017-07 394.0 412.0 18.0 0.49 105 1.4 0.53 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-08 This hole was drilled in a northerly direction from the same platform as V2017-05. The aim of the hole was to test the covered area between the two outcropping un-mineralised diatreme breccias. The hole was speculative in that there are no nearby drill holes and no outcrop. If the drill hole had showed that there was mineralised material between these two outcrops, this would have opened up a large area to the west. In the end, the hole encountered only diatreme indicating that the two outcrops are connected at depth. Drill Hole V2017-09B This hole was drilled in a south-east direction from the same platform as the drill hole V2015-02. The hole was designed to test the southern extension of the mineralisation identified in V2015-03 and V2015-05. The top of bedrock was intersected at a depth of 64.4 metres, where a sequence of andesites and hornfels continued to a depth of 570.9 metres. The drill hole then entered a tonalite until the end at a down-hole depth of 804.2 metres. From the top of bedrock, there are 77.6 m @ 0.52 % Cu, 153 ppm Mo and 1.3 g/t Ag (0.57 % CuEq) from a down-hole depth of 64.4 m. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-09B: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-09B 64.4 142.0 77.6 0.52 153 1.3 0.57 including 108.0 130.0 22.0 0.60 248 1.4 0.68 V2017-09B 228.0 278.0 50.0 0.47 265 1.3 0.55 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-10 This hole was drilled in a north-east direction to check the northern extension of the mineralisation that had been identified in V2017-05. The top of bedrock was intersected at a depth of 50.5 metres. The hole cut a sequence of fine and medium grained diorites and occasional hydrothermal breccias to a depth of 486 metres. From a depth of 486 metres, the hole entered a long sequence of hydrothermal breccias, with 506 m @ 0.57 % Cu, 357 ppm Mo and 1.1 g/t Ag (0.67 % CuEq). Within this run there are some higher grade sections with 30 m @ 0.95 % Cu, 337 ppm Mo and 1.6 g/t Ag (1.05 % CuEq) from 558 m down-hole and 88 m @ 0.70 % Cu, 278 ppm Mo and 1.4 g/t Ag (0.78 % CuEq) from 684 m down-hole. Grades improve with depth as the chalcopyrite-pyrite ratio increases and, from a depth of 920 metres, bornite was identified in hole with up to 20 percent of the sulphides being bornite. This mineralisation shows the potential for the grade to increase with depth. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-10: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-10 486.0 992.0 506.0 0.57 357 1.1 0.67 including 514.0 590.0 76.0 0.69 522 1.5 0.84 inc. within 558.0 588.0 30.0 0.95 337 1.6 1.05 including 622.0 644.0 22.0 0.64 790 1.6 0.85 including 684.0 772.0 88.0 0.70 278 1.4 0.78 inc. within 688.0 726.0 38.0 0.80 338 1.5 0.90 including 882.0 902.0 20.0 0.65 766 0.8 0.85 including 924.0 984.0 60.0 0.73 341 1.5 0.83 inc. within 924.0 946.0 22.0 0.94 392 1.5 1.05 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. Drill Hole V2017-11 This hole was drilled 150 metres to the south of V2017-10, to find the southern extension of the mineralisation identified in drill holes V2017-05 and V2017-10. This hole was also intended to check the northern extensions of the mineralisation identified in V2015-01 and V2015-08. The top of bedrock was intersected at a depth of 86 metres in a fine grained diorite which continued to a depth of 632 metres. Within this run, there are some higher grade sections with 26 m @ 0.55 % Cu, 253 ppm Mo and 1.2 g/t Ag (0.63 % CuEq) from 488 m down-hole. From a depth of 600 metres, bornite mineralisation was identified with up to 10 percent of the sulphides being bornite. The bornite mineralisation, as in hole V2017-10, demonstrates the potential for increasing grades with depth. From a depth of 632 metres, the drill hole entered a post mineral dacite dyke and diatreme. Key intersections from drill hole V2017-11: Hole Number Depth From (m) Depth To (m) Length (m) Cu % Mo ppm Ag g/t CuEq % V2017-11 440.0 458.0 18.0 0.46 307 0.9 0.55 V2017-11 488.0 514.0 26.0 0.55 253 1.2 0.63 V2017-11 554.0 576.0 22.0 0.48 307 1.1 0.57 * Copper equivalent grade has been calculated using the following expression: Cu Eq (%) = CuT (%) + 2.5 x Mo (%) + 110.55 x Ag (%), using the metal prices: $ 2.2 / lb. Cu, $5.5 / lb. Mo and $15.2 / Oz (same reference prices as in reporting of 2015/2016 results). All thicknesses from intersections from drill holes are down-hole drilled thicknesses. True widths cannot be determined from the information available. QA/QC Quality assurance and quality control procedures include the systematic insertion of duplicate and standard samples in to the sample stream. Drill core samples were sawn in half, labelled, placed in sealed bags and were shipped directly to the preparatory laboratory of ALS Minerals in Coquimbo, Chile. All geochemical analyses were performed by ALS Minerals in Lima Peru. All samples were assayed using the method ME-MS61, a four-acid digestion with an ICP-MS finish. Copper samples with grades above 0.6 % Cu were reanalysed using ALS method Cu-OG62, a four-acid digestion with an AAS finish. Mr. Amberg MSc CGeol FGS is the Qualified Person responsible for the preparation of this news release. Team Credentials Mr. Amberg MSc CGeol FGS is a geologist who is a graduate of the Royal School of Mines, London, has an MSc. from University College and is also a Chartered Geologist with the Geological Society of London. He has close to 30 years of diverse experience having worked in Asia, Africa and South America for both multinational and junior companies. He began his career in 1986 working with Anglo American in South Africa before moving on to an exploration position with Severin-Southern Sphere. In 1990 Mr. Amberg moved to Chile where he first worked with Bema Gold on the Refugio project before taking up a position with Rio Tinto. At Rio Tinto he was involved in exploration programs in the Atacama and Magallanes Regions and managed the Barreal Seco (now part of Las Cenizas) exploration program. In 1996 he joined Kazakhstan Minerals Corporation in Kazakhstan, setting up and managing offices for the drilling and resource estimation for JORC compliant feasibility studies on three large projects that are now operating mines. He became General Director for two joint ventures in KazMinCo where he managed all technical and local issues. In 2001 he returned to Chile where he started a geological consulting firm specialising in project evaluation and NI 43-101 technical reports. Mr. Amberg's clients included Rio Tinto, Barrick, Codelco, Anglo American, Pan Pacific Copper and various junior mining companies. He joined Los Andes Copper in 2012 as Chief Geologist and is now also the President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Amberg MSc CGeol FGS is a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Gonzalo Saldias is a geologist who is a graduate of Universidad Catolica del Norte, Chile. He has over 35 years of experience working within Chile and internationally; mainly on copper porphyry, epithermal gold silver and iron-oxide copper gold systems. For the last seven years, he worked for Antofagasta Minerals evaluating copper porphyry projects within Chile, assessing their geological and economical potential. Prior to that he had worked for ten years with Placer Dome Latin America, generating and evaluating exploration projects within the region. Prior to Placer Dome, he worked for Codelco as head of exploration geology for the El Salvador Division, developing the prospective areas near to the mine. He also worked for Northern Resources, Homestake, Utah, Anaconda and as an independent consultant. For more information please contact: Antony J. Amberg, President & CEO Tel: +56 2 2954-0450 Aurora Davidson, CFO Tel: 604-697-6207 E-Mail: info@losandescopper.com or visit our website at: www.losandescopper.com Certain of the information and statements contained herein that are not historical facts, constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the Securities Act (British Columbia), Securities Act (Ontario) and the Securities Act (Alberta) ("Forward-Looking Information"). Forward-Looking Information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect" and "intend"; statements that an event or result is "due" on or "may", "will", "should", "could", or might" occur or be achieved; and, other similar expressions. More specifically, Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such Forward-Looking Information; including, without limitation, the achievement and maintenance of planned production rates, the evolving legal and political policies of Chile, the volatility in the Chilean economy, military unrest or terrorist actions, metal and energy price fluctuations, favourable governmental relations, the availability of financing for activities when required and on acceptable terms, the estimation of mineral resources and reserves, current and future environmental and regulatory requirements, the availability and timely receipt of permits, approvals and licenses, industrial or environmental accidents, equipment breakdowns, availability of and competition for future acquisition opportunities, availability and cost of insurance, labour disputes, land claims, the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates, currency fluctuations, expectations and beliefs of management and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Management's Discussion and Analysis in the Company's financial statements. Such Forward-Looking Information is based upon the Company's assumptions regarding global and Chilean economic, political and market conditions and the price of metals and energy, and the Company's production. Among the factors that have a direct bearing on the Company's future results of operations and financial conditions are changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, a change in government policies, competition, currency fluctuations and restrictions and technological changes, among other things. Should one or more of any of the aforementioned risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from any conclusions, forecasts or projections described in the Forward-Looking Information. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise Forward-Looking Information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. 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. LONDON, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Gillette recently designed and engineered TREO' - the world's first ever assisted shaving razor - to offer a comfortable and dignified shaving experience for the millions of men and women of all ages who, for whatever reason, are unable to shave themselves. Now, the brand is announcing the next step in TREO's learning journey: starting today and while supplies last, UK and U.S. consumers are invited to request a product sample to trial via a new website: http://www.gillettetreo.co.uk. In addition, during what will be a three-month pilot phase, a number of professional care homes and institutions in both markets are also partnering with the brand to trial Gillette TREO' samples amongst their professional caregivers and care recipients. From these thousands of at-home and institutional shaving experiences, Gillette's scientists and researchers plan to collect first-hand feedback to refine the TREO' product experience - at launch and beyond. For the millions needing assistance with day-to-day living, personal care is an important part of maintaining normalcy, confidence, and dignity. However, as part of this, the shaving process can often be a daunting, messy, and difficult task. Indeed, it's a little-reported problem that impacts a significant number of the UK population: nearly 1.4 million people aged over 65 in England and Wales provide unpaid care for a partner, family, or others[1]. And, notably, over 75% of UK carers shave loved ones and patients every 3-5 days with over 60% admitting to using disposables[2]. In fact, Google estimates that tens of thousands of conversations happen about the demands of everyday caregiving[3]. Inspired by real world conversations just like these, Gillette began its journey of developing and researching a product to address this very emotional consumer need. "Our UK research found that when asked how care and support services helped them, the most common answer amongst people over 65 was personal care (68%)[4], which helps them to maintain a sense of normalcy and to support lost functions like the ability to shave oneself," said Melissa Monich, Vice President of Research & Development, Global Grooming at P&G. "We were struck by how important these day-to-day activities are in supporting the dignity, pride and morale of those who need assistance. This made us even more compelled to use our expertise to develop a more comfortable and safer experience - and that is what continues to inspire us on this TREO' journey." WHAT MAKES GILLETTE TREO' DIFFERENT During the course of this journey, Gillette discovered a surprising fact - based on U.S. patent filings, over 4,000 razors have been created for the purpose of shaving yourself, but zero have been specifically engineered for shaving another individual. The team set out to change this. Tapping into rich consumer insights and working closely with caregivers and industry professionals, early prototypes were evolved to get to the Gillette TREO', a razor uniquely designed for assisted shaving. The Gillette TREO' is a dramatic departure from a standard razor, driven by the very different needs of not one, but two, consumers - the caregiver and the individual getting the shave. "When researching the project, the first step was to visit a care facility to see how the assisted shaving experience is different when compared to how we shave ourselves," said Matthew Hodgson, TREO's lead designer at Gillette. "Very quickly, we noticed big differences and big difficulties. For example, we realized the ergonomics of the handle and direction of the blade completely change when turned to shave another person, and thus a complete redesign would need to be engineered." The team then designed a new solution with a range of features designed to address the biggest differences: THE BLADE - Designed to make the shave safe and help prevent clogging. - Designed to make the shave safe and help prevent clogging. THE HANDLE - Unlike traditional razors, the Gillette TREO's special handle operates like a paintbrush, with a unique divot for control and comfort for care-givers and those being cared for. - Unlike traditional razors, the Gillette TREO's special handle operates like a paintbrush, with a unique divot for control and comfort for care-givers and those being cared for. THE SHAVE GEL - Built into the handle, the special gel hydrates the hair and lubricates the skin for a comfortable, mess-free shave. The Gillette TREO assisted shaving razor has been engineered to provide control, safety and comfort. Since its founder King C. Gillette changed the way men shave forever, innovation has been an important part of Gillette's heritage. Through the years, Gillette has worked to improve the shaving experience and stay focused on the needs of all consumers. It is this rich history of innovation that has made Gillette a brand that has stood the test of time for well over a century - one that is trusted by over 750 million consumers around the world. To trial a sample of Gillette TREO' on a loved one or within a care setting, please request a sample at http://www.gillettetreo.co.uk . To learn more about the story of Gillette TREO', view the 'Handle with Care' video at http://www.YouTube.com/Gillette - winner of seven Cannes Lions awards. Notes to Editors [1] Age UK "Later Life in the United Kingdom" Fact Sheet August 2017: Community Care Statistics: Social Services Activity, England 2012-2013, table P2f 1c, NHS Information Centre 2013 [2]P&G data on file [3] https://www.google.com/search?q=demands+of+everyday+caregiving [4] Age UK "Later Life in the United Kingdom" Fact Sheet August 2017: Personal Social Services Adult Social Care Survey, England - Provisional 2010-11. NHS Information Centre, 2011 About Procter & Gamble P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always Ambi Pur Ariel Bounty Charmin Crest Dawn Downy Fairy Febreze Gain Gillette Head & Shoulders Lenor Olay Oral-B Pampers Pantene SK-II Tide Vicks and Whisper The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visithttp://www.pg.comfor the latest news and information about P&G and its brands. For further information please contact: [UK] Juliet Lewis -Juliet.Lewis@ketchum.com [UK] Emma Sharpe -Emma.Sharpe@ketchum.com [US] Haiwen Lu -Haiwen.Lu@ketchum.com ATLANTA, GA -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Findit, Inc. (OTC PINK: FDIT), a Nevada Corporation which owns Findit.com, rolled out several key features the past 2 weeks. The updates were done in the App and on Findit.com. The App is now available in the Apple App Store (AAPL) and the Google Play Store. With the recent launch of the App, Findit has a list of features the team is developing that will improve its members experience that could result in an increase in their visibility and interactions on Findit, outside search engines that include Google, Yahoo and Bing, along with social and bookmarking sites that include Facebook, Google + and Twitter. One of the new features to Findit Right Now App is the inclusion of members that are following you. Members on Findit can now see who is following them and who is following other members. People are used to seeing this feature on Twitter and in Facebook and Findit knew it had to add it to provide our members and visitors more ways to find each other and connect. Peter Tosto stated, "We always knew we needed to have this feature. But we accelerated the process when we saw a review in Google Play Store from a member who downloaded the App and was discouraged it was not available. The feature is now on the App and has been on the website. This ought to result in people spending more time on the App as people tend to click to see who is following who and then add them as followers as well." Followers Adding Followers into the navigation of the App now provides members the ability to click on Followers screen name and check out what they are posting. This will increase interactions between members. This feature is similar to users, like ourselves, of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, when the profiles are not set to private. Snapchat does not allow you to view who is following someone else. Findit believes that by having an open platform and allowing people to view and interact with one another easier, people can connect much quicker than on several other Apps. We do have blocking available if a member does not want to see someone's posts. The followers addition will help to get members and non-members clicking around Findit and seeing more member content from the members About page and scrolling through their Right Now feed. Overall we expect this to increase the amount of time visitors spend on Findit as they peruse Findit posts. Like Feature The popular Like feature was added as well. The 'Like' is an important feature that members of social sites expect to have available. A 'Like' is often a way to monitor the popularity of your posts. Members on Facebook and Instagram have been known to delete a post if it does not accumulate a certain number of likes over a certain period of time. Facebook recently added emojis to their Like feature to give members more moods to choose from, when they want to express a feeling. The Like feature in Findit is the symbol of someone giving a peace sign with their fingers. We will be looking to add other emoji icons in the future to provide members variations of ways to express themselves under posts. To Like a post or leave a comment you do need to be signed in. You do not need to be signed into Findit to share content to other social sites that include but are not limited to: Facebook, Google +, Twitter, LinkedIN and Pinterest. Display All Right Now Posts Findit is now displaying all Right Now posts in the Global feed. Prior to this update, Findit only displayed Right Now posts that included pictures. By displaying all posts, Findit anticipates more page views on the website and more clicks to posts in the App. This is a very important update for members to be ensure their posts are included in the main Global Right Now feed. By doing this, Findit can appeal to members on other social sites that do quick updates that are limited to a particular number of characters. Many of these posts are relevant but may not include an image or video or a back link; all of which can be included in each Findit post. With the inclusion of all Right Now posts in the Global feed that do include images, members that are not including images will still be able to have their posts placed in front of members that scroll through the Global feed. This will increase views to these posts that otherwise would go unnoticed. Findit recognized a need for this by simply seeing screenshots of President Trump's Tweets on the evening news. We would love to have the POTUS and other Politicians, Celebrities, Athletes and individuals that have a message they want to be seen, shared and indexed post it through Findit, and provide the same exposure to a post with 140 characters but giving them the ability to create a post with six thousand characters, a link, a video, a picture gallery, a news release and an audio file. Members of Findit can control their message by including the complete story along with images and video that do not give news outlets the ability to create a fake narrative of what took place, i.e only selecting part of a message or tweet to create a news story without the full picture. Clark St. Amant stated "These updates provide benefits to our members and our visitors that are seeking more visibility, improved indexing in search engines, more sharing to social and overall more control and visibility of the content they want found. Adding the like feature along with showing posts that do not have pictures but could include a video, a link, an audio file or only text was important that we make all content posted in Findit available to view by all visitors." Flagging Findit has put in place flagging for members who see objectionable content that want to block a members feed and/or report content that members may view as inappropriate. Findit will continue to add new features and keep our members, visitors and shareholders informed as new features go live. Findit's overall objective for our members is to improve their overall experience on Findit by increasing their search results and achieving more engagement through sharing, liking, and comments as a result of posting on Findit and sharing to all their other social sites. Raymond Firth stated, "Our focus is to continue to develop Findit into the social media content management platform we have envisioned since day one; one that will give Findit members the ability to post any content that they want indexed in Findit along with being crawled by Google, Yahoo and Bing to be indexed in those search engines as well. We will also strive to make it easier for people and organizations to manage their social media content from Findit, by doing their posts in Findit first and then sharing those posts to their social media sites where they want their posts to be seen and shared from. Doing this will help us to increase our revenue stream through our paid for services that will improve a member on Findit's overall objectives to increase and improve overall indexing and garner more shares, likes and comments." Findit Paid For Services: Findit is a free platform that anyone can use that offers paid for services. These paid for services as the Findit brand grows are very useful to current members utilizing them. They include Findit URLs, submitting to Findit search web pages you want indexed, promoting posts in Findit to Findit's social accounts on Twitter, Facebook, Google + and other bookmarking and social sites and Findit's news and press release distribution services. Download the Findit App for IOS devices here Apple App Store Download the Findit App for Android at Google Play Store Findit, Inc. Findit, Inc. owns Findit.com which is a Social Media Content Management Platform that provides an interactive search engine for all content posted in Findit to appear in Findit search. The site is an open platform that provides access to Google, Yahoo, Bing and other search engines access to its content posted to Findit so it can be indexed in these search engines as well. Findit provides Members the ability to post, share and manage their content. Once they have posted in Findit we ensure the content gets indexed in Findit Search results. Findit provides an option for anyone to submit URLs that they want indexed in Findit search result along with posting status updates through Findit Right Now. Status Updates posted in Findit can be crawled by outside search engines which can result in additional organic indexing. All posts on Findit can be shared to other social and bookmarking sites by members and non-members. Findit provides Real Estate Agents the ability to create their own Findit Site where they can pull in their listing and others through their IDX account. Findit offers News and Press Release Distribution. Findit, Inc. is focused on the development of monetized internet based web products that can provide an increase brand awareness of our members. Findit, Inc. trades under the stock symbol FDIT on the OTC Pinksheets. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), including statements regarding potential sales, the success of the company's business, as well as statements that include the word "believe" or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Findit, Inc. to differ materially from those implied or expressed by such forward-looking statements. This press release speaks as of the date first set forth above, and Findit, Inc. assumes no responsibility to update the information included herein for events occurring after the date hereof. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated due to factors such as the lack of capital, timely development of products, inability to deliver products when ordered, inability of potential customers to pay for ordered products, and political and economic risks inherent in international trade. Findit, Inc. info@findit.com 404 443 3224 Flash Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sent a ritual offering to the notorious war-linked Yasukuni Shrine on Tuesday on the occasion of its annual autumn festival. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. [File photo/Xinhua] Abe himself is reportedly to refrain from visiting the notorious shrine during the festival in person in an effort to prevent further damage to Japan's relationship with China and South Korea at a time Japan and the region is facing heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Abe once again sent a "masakaki" tree as an offering under the name of the prime minister. The potted tree is used here in ceremonies involving Shintoism. The prime minister left Tokyo for Japan's north on Tuesday morning to deliver campaign speeches in Akita and Yamagata prefectures ahead of the lower house election on Sunday. A number of senior politicians also made ritual offerings to the shrine, including Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Katsunobu Kato, House of Councillors President Chuichi Date and Toshiei Mizuochi, senior vice education minister. Yasukuni Shrine honors 14 Class-A convicted war criminals among 2.5 million Japanese war dead from WWII and is regarded as a symbol of past Japanese militarism. Visits and ritual offerings made by proxy to the infamous shrine by Japanese leaders and officials have consistently sparked strong criticism and hurts the feelings of China and South Korea and other countries brutalized by Japan during WWII. Abe has sent a ritual offering to Yasukuni during its spring and autumn festivals every year since he launched his current administration in 2012. The Japanese prime minister last visited the controversial shrine in person in Dec. 2013, at which time he was strongly condemned by China and South Korea, as well as the United States, who said at the time it was disappointed with Abe's decision. GE Additive (NYSE: GE), Concept Laser and Arcam AB (STO: ARCM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GKN (LSE:GKN) to collaborate on Additive Manufacturing (AM). The agreement includes the provision of additive machines and services to GKN, allowing them to be a GE Additive Production Partner. GKN also becomes a non-exclusive preferred AM powder supplier to GE Additive and its affiliated companies. "GE Additive and GKN both understand the transformative power that additive manufacturing will have in the aerospace and automotive industries," said Vice President and General Manager of GE Additive, Mohammad Ehteshami. "Additive machines from Concept Laser and Arcam will bring tremendous value to this GKN relationship and we look forward to collaborating more closely in the future." As part of the agreement some of the activities include: GE Additive and its affiliated companies will become non-exclusive preferred suppliers of AM machines to GKN and its affiliates. GKN will become a GE Additive development and production partner for a range of powder bed and free form deposition technologies. GKN will collaborate with GE Additive on part development projects on powder bed machines to enable new market opportunities. GKN will become a non-exclusive preferred supplier of powder to GE Additive and GE's industrial businesses. GE Additive's Engineering Consulting Team (known as "AddWorks") will assist GKN and its affiliates with the acceleration and industrialisation of AM machines. Jos Sclater, Head of Strategy at GKN, said: "We look forward to working with GE Additive on this revolutionary technology. GKN has a strong history of producing and certifying AM parts and powder, and by working together, GKN and GE can accelerate future developments in additive manufacturing and meet the growing demand we're seeing across a range of industries." Additive manufacturing (also called 3D printing) involves taking digital designs from computer aided design (CAD) software, and building them on an additive machine, layer by layer from metal powder. Additive components are typically lighter, more durable and more efficient than traditional casting and forged parts because they can be made as one piece, requiring less welds, joints and assembly. Because additive parts are essentially "grown" from the ground up, they generate far less waste material. Freed of traditional manufacturing restrictions, additive manufacturing dramatically expands the design possibilities for engineers. For many years, GE has been a leading end user and innovator in the additive manufacturing space. In addition to the $1.4 billion investment in Concept Laser and Arcam, GE has also invested approximately $1.5 billion in manufacturing and additive technologies over the past 10 years, developed additive applications across six GE businesses, created new services applications across the company, and earned 346 patents in material science. In 2016, the company established GE Additive to become a leading supplier of additive technology, materials and services for industries and businesses worldwide. GKN is a global engineering group, operating from more than 150 manufacturing locations in over 30 countries. GKN has been a global leader in AM for decades, with aerospace components produced, certified and flying on seven major platforms today, as well as a world-leader in AM automotive parts and a specialist powder producer. About GKN GKN plc is a global engineering group. It has three divisions; GKN Aerospace, GKN Driveline and GKN Powder Metallurgy, which operate in the aerospace and automotive markets. Over 58,000 people work in GKN companies and joint ventures in more than 30 countries. GKN is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: GKN) and recorded sales of 9.4 billion in the year to 31 December 2016. Please visit the GKN Additive website for more information. About GE Additive GE Additive is part of GE (NYSE: GE) the world's Digital Industrial Company, transforming industry with software-defined machines and solutions that are connected, responsive and predictive. GE Additive includes additive machine providers Concept Laser and ArcamEBM; along with additive material provider AP&C and additive service provider to the medical industry, DTI. As a notable user of additive technologies GE recognize the value and potential it brings to modern design and manufacturing. GE is organized around a global exchange of knowledge, the "GE Store," through which each business shares and accesses the same technology, resources and intellect. GE delivers better outcomes for customers by speaking the language of industry. www.geadditive.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006012/en/ Contacts: GE Additive Rick Kennedy, +1 (513) 607-0609 rick.l.kennedy@ge.com OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- CannaRoyalty Corp. (CSE: CRZ)(CSE: CRZ.CN)(CNSX: CRZ)(OTCQX: CNNRF) ("CannaRoyalty" or the "Company"), an active investor and operator in the legal cannabis industry, commented on Canadian Securities Administrators ("CSA") Staff Notice 51-352, Issuers with U.S. Marijuana-Related Activities (the "Notice"). "With this Notice, the CSA has removed uncertainty for investors and paved a concrete path forward for companies like CannaRoyalty," said Marc Lustig, CEO of CannaRoyalty. "CannaRoyalty has continuously provided an extensive level of disclosure and we are appreciative of the CSA's endorsement of the disclosure-forward approach the Company has taken since its public launch. We commend the CSA for its balanced and transparent approach to this topic and we expect this guidance to eliminate any persisting rumours regarding the Canadian regulators' view of issuers with U.S. cannabis assets." The Notice also reinforces individual exchanges' right to determine the eligibility of individual issuers to list based on those exchanges' listing requirements. The Canadian Securities Exchange has repeatedly expressed support for issuers with U.S. cannabis assets and reinforced its support in response to the Notice. About CannaRoyalty CannaRoyalty is a fully integrated, active investor and operator in the legal cannabis sector. Our focus is building and supporting a diversified portfolio of growth-ready assets in high-value segments of the cannabis sector, including research, consumer brands, devices and intellectual property. Our management team combines a hands-on understanding of the cannabis industry with seasoned financial know-how, assembling a platform of holdings via royalty agreements, equity interests, secured convertible debt, licensing agreements and its own branded portfolio. Forward Looking Statements Statements in this news release that are forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed here and elsewhere in CannaRoyalty's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. When used in this news release, words such as "will, could, plan, estimate, expect, intend, may, potential, believe, should," and similar expressions, are forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements including the Company's expectations with respect to pursuing new opportunities and its future growth and other statements of fact. Although CannaRoyalty has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there can be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, including, but not limited to: dependence on obtaining regulatory approvals; investing in target companies or projects which have limited or no operating history and are engaged in activities currently considered illegal under US Federal Laws; changes in laws; limited operating history; reliance on management; requirements for additional financing; competition; hindering market growth and state adoption due to inconsistent public opinion and perception of the medical-use and adult-use marijuana industry and; regulatory or political change. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate or that management's expectations or estimates of future developments, circumstances or results will materialize. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the results or events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. CannaRoyalty disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise such information, except as required by applicable law, and CannaRoyalty does not assume any liability for disclosure relating to any other company mentioned herein. Contacts: CannaRoyalty Corp. Marc Lustig CEO 1-844-556-5070 info@cannaroyalty.com www.cannaroyalty.com LodeRock Advisors Inc. Jonathan Ross 416-283-0178 jon.ross@loderockadvisors.com TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Pasinex Resources Limited (CSE: PSE)(CSE: PSE.CN)(CSNX: PSE)(FRANKFURT: PNX) (The "Company" or "Pasinex") today provides an update on the progress on the preparation of an independent Mineral Resource Estimate for the high-grade Pinargozu zinc mine in Turkey. Pasinex also announces approval for the adoption of an advance notice by-law (the "By-law"). President and CEO of Pasinex Resources, Mr. Steve Williams, commented: "We are now expecting to publish the results of the NI 43-101 resource estimate for Pinargozu in November 2017. We're working expeditiously with CSA Global to ensure our updated timeline is met." Wireframing of Mineral Resource volumes is almost complete. In June and September, CSA Global's Qualified Person (QP) and resource geologist visited the mine site and undertook underground inspections and review of drilling, core-handling and sample preparation. Due to the porous nature of the high-grade non-sulphide zinc mineralization, CSA Global advised extraction of three 25 to 30 tonne bulk samples to better determine appropriate bulk-density assignation in the Mineral Resource model. An additional 100 bulk-density measurements on drill-core have been requested and will be determined by an an accredited independent laboratory in Turkey. These measurements will be added to the database of results from 70 grab samples already taken from underground. These workstreams will provide a more reliable bulk density for the volume and therefore a more robust estimated tonnage as part of the Mineral Resource study. All quality assurance and quality control protocols and results have been reviewed and approved by CSA Global. Pasinex management is confident that the stope bulk density measurements will be completed within the next few weeks to allow publication of Pinargozu's first maiden resource by the end of November at the latest. Pasinex is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has approved the adoption of an advance notice by-law (the "By-law") on August 8, 2017, which requires advance notice to the Corporation in circumstances where nominations of persons for election as a director of the Corporation are made by shareholders other than pursuant to: (i) a requisition of a meeting made pursuant to the provisions of the British Columbia Business Corporations Act (the "Act"); or (ii) a shareholder proposal made pursuant to the provisions of the Act. Among other things, the By-law fixes a deadline by which shareholders must submit a notice of director nominations to the Corporation prior to any annual or special meeting of shareholders where directors are to be elected and sets forth the information that a shareholder must include in the notice for it to be valid. In the case of an annual meeting of shareholders, notice to the Corporation must be made not less than 30 nor more than 65 days prior to the date of the annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event that the annual meeting is to be held on a date that is less than 50 days after the date on which the first public announcement of the date of the annual meeting was made, notice may be made not later than the close of business on the 10th day following such public announcement. The By-law is effective immediately. At the next meeting of shareholders, shareholders will be asked to confirm and ratify the By-law. About Pasinex Pasinex Resources Limited (CSE: PSE)(CSE: PSE.CN)(CNSX: PSE)(FRANKFURT: PNX), a metals company, is a 50% owner of the high grade Pinargozu Zinc Mine which is in production. Under its DSO Program, Horzum AS is shipping directly to zinc smelters / refiners from its mine site in Turkey. The Company has a strong technical management team with many years of experience in mineral exploration and mining project development. The mission of Pasinex is to build a mid-tier zinc company based on assembling a large land position within a productive CRD district in Turkey. The Pinargozu Mine is included in Horzum Arama Isletme AS (Horzum AS), which is a 50-50 corporate joint venture between Pasinex and Turkish mining house Akmetal Madencilik San ve Tic. AS (Akmetal AS). Akmetal AS is one of Turkey's largest family-owned conglomerates with the nearby past-producing Horzum Zinc Mine. Visit our web site at: www.pasinex.com On Behalf of the Board of Directors PASINEX RESOURCES LTD. Steve Williams The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause the actual results of the Company to be materially different from the historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although Pasinex Resources Ltd. believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, continued availability of capital and financing, exploration results, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. Contacts: Pasinex Resources Limited Steve Williams President/CEO 416.861.9659 info@pasinex.com CHF Investor Relations Cathy Hume 416.868.1079 ext. 231 cathy@chfir.com TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- ARHT Media Inc. ("ARHT" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: ART), creators of digital human holograms called HumaGrams, joined the 2017 FinTech Forum this week highlighting its telepresence technology to a sold-out crowd. Spearheaded by Finance Montreal, the FinTech Forum has a mandate to identify and develop business opportunities for the global financial services and information technology industries. Using the Company's patented Holographic Telepresence technology, ARHT successfully beamed in XPRIZE Founder, Dr. Peter Diamandis, from Toronto to the Palais des Congres in Montreal to participate in a Q&A session titled Exponential Innovation: Fundamental Changes Enabled By New Technologies. Named by Fortune Magazine as one of the World's 50 Greatest Leaders, Dr. Diamandis impressed a crowd of thousands by appearing as a 3D HumaGram. "At ARHT, we strive to align ourselves with organizations that promote innovation and development especially when that is strongly associated with technology," said Paul Duffy, CEO of ARHT. "Working with FinTech was an excellent collaboration where topics of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity were discussed and debated at length." This year over 1,500 attendees participated in the two-day event. "Because of ARHT's technology, I didn't have to miss this important conference and was able to still engage with experts across multiple fields and discuss the disruptive potential of financial technologies," said Dr. Diamandis. "By beaming me into the conference as a 3D HumaGram, we were able to further highlight the pace at which technology is moving and how it is effectively eliminating barriers of time and space." ARHT continues to release market-driven enhancements to their technology stack, thus broadening recurring revenue opportunities beyond major events and conferences. "Our new patent-pending screen design also allows for the display to operate in more venues with different lighting conditions, bringing ARHT closer to mass commercialization of our technology," said Duffy. "It was an honour to work with Dr. Diamandis and the impressive group behind FinTech. This was a perfect opportunity to deploy the latest iteration of our holographic display." About ARHT Media ARHT's patented Augmented Reality Holographic Telepresence technology is the world's first complete end-to-end solution for the creation, transmission, and delivery of lifelike digital human holograms, known as HumaGrams. The company's technology is protected by U.S. Patent No. 9,581,962. Connect with ARHT on Social Media: Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ARHTmedia Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ARHTmediainc LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/arht-media-inc- For more information, please visit http://www.arhtmedia.com/ or contact the investor relations group at info@arhtmedia.com. ARHT Media trades under the symbol "ART" on the Toronto Venture Stock Exchange. About Dr. Peter Diamandis In 2014 Fortune Magazine named Peter Diamandis as one of the World's 50 Greatest Leaders. Diamandis is the Founder & Executive Chairman of the XPRIZE Foundation, which leads the world in designing and operating large-scale incentive competitions. He is also the Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of Singularity University, a graduate-level Silicon Valley institution that counsels the world's leaders on exponentially growing technologies. This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the Company's technology; the potential uses for the Company's technology; the future planned events using the Company's technology; the applications and prospects of the Company's new technologies; the future success of the Company; the ability of the Company to monetize the HumaGram technology; the development of the Company's technology; the hiring of a new Director of Operations; the granting of stock options; and how the Company's technology will impact the speaking marketplace. 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 the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic and competitive uncertainties; regulatory risks; risks inherent in technology operations; and other risks of the technology industry. Although the Company 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. The Company 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: ARHT Media Public Relations Kam Gill +1 416 861 5875 kam@arhtmedia.com ARHT Media Press Contact Salman Amin samin@arhtmedia.com www.arhtmedia.com Customers in Europe with Complex Data Integration, Management and Compliance Needs Can Now Access Full Scope of Solutions via Liaison ALLOY' Platform ATLANTA, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --Liaison Technologies, a recognized leader in cloud-based integration and data management solutions, today announced that the company extends availability of its industry leading ALLOY' Platform into the European market. Responding to growing demand, Liaison now offers the same advanced capabilities available in the United States to customers in Europe via its local delivery organization and a data center in London. Liaison currently serves U.S.-based enterprise customers with its full complement of services utilizing the award-winning Liaison ALLOY'Platform. By extending these capabilities in Europe, the company expects to add even more global enterprises to its customer base. Liaison can now deliver more versatile solutions in the region, expanding use cases beyond business-to-business integration deployments. Liaison continues to see an increasing need for advanced data integration and management solutions in Europe. Demand in the region focuses on holistic solutions that enable companies to harness the power of their data for innovation. Scarcity of skills available in the market leads customers worldwide to look for outsourced data management solutions so that their internal IT teams and data science experts can focus on more strategic tasks. Extending the ALLOY Platform with its managed services approach into Europe addresses exactly these market dynamics. "The Liaison ALLOY Platform tackles all patterns of integration and meets the most stringent compliance standards," said Juhani Sormanen, Liaison's Executive Vice President in Europe. "We've experienced rapid growth in the U.S. as more businesses discover the benefits of consolidating, cleansing and enriching data from multiple sources and leveraging our managed services team to handle both integration and data management domains. Now companies operating in Europe can also take advantage of Liaison's technology and expertise to drive new business insights and move toward a data-inspired future." Designed from the ground up to reduce the complexity in data integration, eliminate data silos and meet multiple compliance standards on a single platform, Liaison's ALLOY Platform lets organizations unlock data value and gain insight to drive innovation and operational efficiency. Learn more at www.liaison.com. About Liaison Technologies Liaison Technologies provides integration and data management solutions to help customers unlock the power of a data-centric approach to their business. Liaison's cloud-based approach breaks down the barriers between data silos to tap into the valuable information needed to make better decisions, faster. Tailored to solve complex data problems today while building a robust foundation for tomorrow's unforeseen challenges, Liaison fosters a seamless flow of information securely and at scale. Founded in 2000, Liaison serves more than 7,000 customers in 46 countries, with offices in the United States, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, the United Kingdom and Singapore. For more information, visit www.liaison.com and connect with Liaison on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. MEDIA CONTACT: Amy Dardinger SSPR (847) 415-9321 adardinger@sspr.com Logo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/584507/Liaison_logo_Logo.jpg Berlin/Bonn (ots) - - Querverweis: Ein Dokument liegt in der digitalen Pressemappe zum Download vor und ist unter http://www.presseportal.de/dokumente abrufbar - - Querverweis: Bildmaterial ist abrufbar unter http://www.presseportal.de/bilder - The 12th meeting of ASEM Customs Directors-General took place in Berlin on 16-17 October 2017. The meeting brought together the Customs Directors-General from the European and Asian member states of ASEM along with representatives from the European Commission. The World Customs Organization also attended as an observer. Today the delegations adopted the Berlin Declaration, a joint statement that sets out future targets and actions for customs cooperation among ASEM members. The meeting of ASEM Customs Directors-General was held in the historic Erzberger Hall at the Federal Ministry of Finance and chaired by Uwe Schroder, Director of Germany's Central Customs Authority. Parliamentary State Secretary Michael Meister opened the meeting. Representatives from 45 European and Asian member states engaged in joint discussions with the European Commission and the World Customs Organization, focusing in particular on specific measures to facilitate trade, safeguard supply chains, combat piracy and counterfeiting, and promote environmental and consumer protection. Commenting on the meeting, Mr Schroder stated: "The meetings of ASEM Customs Directors-General are of great importance. Customs authorities in both Asia and Europe face the same challenges in connection with processes of globalisation: How can we facilitate and expedite the movement of goods while simultaneously ensuring safety and security for businesses and private citizens? We held in-depth discussions on these issues, and the Berlin Declaration now gives us plenty of homework to do in the coming two years." The talks resulted in the Berlin Declaration, which outlines the targets and priorities of European-Asian cooperation and, in particular, sets out a specific plan of action for 2018 and 2019. Key actions for the coming two years will focus on a customs trade facilitation action plan, paperless cargo processes, cross-border e-commerce trade lanes, border enforcement in connection with international postal items. The opening speeches of the Parliamentary State Secretary Dr. Meister and of the Director General of Germany's Central Customs Authority will are available in video format on www.zoll.de . Further information: The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) is an international forum established in 1996 to foster dialogue and cooperation. Today ASEM encompasses 53 members. ASEM focuses on a variety of policy fields. In the area of customs, participating countries work on the alignment, streamlining and harmonisation of customs procedures. They also coordinate strategies to combat illegal activity, including terrorist activity. ASEM Customs Directors-General gather for joint talks every two years, and the meetings rotate between Asia and Europe. The previous meeting took place in Goa, India, in autumn 2015. The Goa Declaration specified a number of European-Asian projects to be carried out in 2016 and 2017 as part of the ASEM action plan on customs matters. In 2015, Germany offered to host the 12th meeting of ASEM Countries in October 2017. OTS: Generalzolldirektion newsroom: http://www.presseportal.de/nr/120080 newsroom via RSS: http://www.presseportal.de/rss/pm_120080.rss2 Pressekontakt: Generalzolldirektion Pressestelle Stefan Kirsch Telefon: 0228 303 11611 Pressestelle.GZD@zoll.bund.de Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de SHELTON, CT -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- OneWayLimo.com (OWL), a luxury transportation brokerage company servicing all major cities on the East Coast, will be exhibiting next month at the Limousine, Charter and Tour Magazine (LCT)/National Limousine Association (NLA) trade show and conference, taking place November 5-7, 2017 at Harrah's Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The company will be in Booth #38, and is looking to further expand their affiliate partnerships. "We have had a great year expanding our service to limousine operators from Maine to Florida and we are looking forward to participating at the LCT/NLA Show East to further grow our affiliate partners," said Joe Salemme, President and Founder of OneWayLimo. "Our goal is to put 'butts in seats' through our Empty Leg System technology which is capable of filling the empty legs of our affiliate partners. We are aligning ourselves to be the technical solution that allows livery companies to claim rides in real time, fill their empty legs and increase revenue." OneWayLimo is the first-mover to create a secondary market in the lucrative luxury limo space. The livery black car industry in the US is a $2B plus business and growing. However, today almost 90% of all bookings for a luxury limo to the airport or to a major destination results in the car being empty on one leg of the journey. Unlike car rentals, national Limousine companies don't exist and margins regionally have been declining due to ridesharing popularity. The OneWayLimo Advantage - The Empty Leg System technology is capable of filling the empty legs of affiliate partners. OneWayLimo currently has hundreds of affiliates in their network and continues to grow up and down the East Coast. Increase Revenue for Affiliates - OWL provides the infrastructure and tools for affiliates to claim fares, fill empty legs, and increase revenue, making it simple, convenient and profitable Passenger Safety is a top priority: OneWayLimo network consists of professional, licensed and insured drivers that provide top-notch transportation services to airports, weddings, special events or just a night out on the town. The Solution - To take advantage of the excess capacity and create a secondary market in the black car industry the same way that Expedia, Kayak, and Priceline did by creating a secondary market for unused hotel rooms and airline seats. About ONEWAYLIMO - Founded in 2014, OneWayLimo, based in Shelton, CT, is a luxury transportation brokerage company servicing all major cities on the East Coast. OneWayLimo offers an online solution for consumers to access a network of professional, licensed and insured drivers for black car transportation. Their commitment to the customers is to provide the lowest cost while maintaining the highest standards in customer service. For more information, visit www.onewaylimo.com. For more information, contact: Amy Riemer Media Relations 978-475-4441 (office) or 978-502-4895 (cell) Email Contact ESCONDIDO, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 --MARIJUANA COMPANY OF AMERICA INC. ("MCOA" or the "Company") (OTC: MCOA), an innovative hemp and cannabis corporation with diverse operations and joint ventures in the legal hemp and cannabis industry, announced today that it has engaged the corporate communications expertise of NetworkNewsWire ("NNW"). MCOA's Chief Executive Officer, Donald Steinberg, commented: "We are pleased to utilize NetworkNewsWire's messaging and branding strategies to communicate to the investment community Marijuana Company of America's position in the cannabis industry. We are at a crossroads of global legalization of our industry. The world has a massive need for cannabis and hemp products and services. This process of countries shifting to a legal cannabis and hemp structure is something that will occur only once in the history of a country, and we are proud to be a frontrunner in the industry." NNW is a multifaceted financial news and publishing company that delivers a new generation of social communication solutions, news aggregation and syndication, and enhanced news release services. NNW's strategies help public and private organizations find their voice and build market visibility. As part of the Client-Partner relationship with MCOA, NNW will leverage its investor-based distribution network of over 5,000 key syndication outlets, various newsletters, social media channels, blogs, and other outreach tools to generate greater brand awareness for the Company. "Marijuana Company of America is uniquely positioned to capture market share with its strategic approach to the cannabis and hemp industry through networking architecture," observed Sherri Franklin, director of Content Marketing for NNW. "We look forward to assisting the company with a corporate communications campaign that effectively keeps shareholders and the investment community up-to-date on its cannabis and hemp innovations." About NetworkNewsWire NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) NetworkNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. NNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today's market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge. For more information, please visit https://www.NetworkNewsWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the NetworkNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by NNW, wherever published or re-published: http://NNW.fm/Disclaimer About Marijuana Company of America, Inc. MCOA is a corporation which participates in: (1) product research and development of legal hemp-based consumer products containing CBD under the brand name "hempSMART", that targets general health and well-being; (2) an affiliate marketing program to promote and sell its legal hemp-based consumer products; (3) leasing of real property to separate business entities engaged in the growth and sale of cannabis in those states and jurisdictions where cannabis has been legalized and properly regulated for medicinal and recreations use; and, (4) the expansion of its business into ancillary areas of the legalized cannabis and hemp industry, as the legalized markets and opportunities in this segment mature and develop. For more information, visit http://MarijuanaCompanyofAmerica.com Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" which are not purely historical and may include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, the development, costs and results of new business opportunities and words such as "anticipate", "seek", intend", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "project", "plan", or similar phrases may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Such factors include, among others, the inherent uncertainties associated with new projects, the future U.S. and global economies, the impact of competition, and the Company's reliance on existing regulations regarding the use and development of cannabis-based products. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that any beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate. Investors should consult all of the information set forth herein and should also refer to the risk factors disclosure outlined in our annual report on Form 10-12G, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other periodic reports filed from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. For more information, please visit www.sec.gov. For more information, please visit the Company's websites at: MarijuanaCompanyofAmerica.com hempSMART.com NetworkNewsWire/ MCOA NNW Contact: NetworkNewsWire (NNW) New York, New York www.NetworkNewsWire.com 212.418.1217 Office Email Contact PORTLAND, OR -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Cherubim Interests, Inc. (OTC PINK: CHIT) ("the Company"), an expansion-stage alternative construction and real estate development company, announces that it has acquired its Flagship location to deploy its BudCube Cultivation Systems technology and hybrid business concept. The property, located in Lowell, Oregon, will serve as the company's flagship leasing center, comprising of more than twenty acres zoned F2 or Impacted Forest Land. F2 zoned property is primarily resource land to be used for forestry, agriculture and related activities. The property is also located across the street from Fall Creek Farm and Nursery, the world's leading blueberry nursery stock and breeding company, providing the industry's best blueberry genetics, plants & technical support to commercial fruit growers around the globe and situated less than twenty minutes from Interstate- 5 freeway, one of the largest major interstate roadways in the United States. "We are excited to acquire this property because it is already zoned for agri-business, removing the need for any additional zoning variances," says Patrick Johnson, CEO of CHIT. "This gives us the ability to offer an extremely private and secure environment for our tenants with enough acreage to deploy both single and multi-tenant business concepts moving forward." This property is a rare find and we are very fortunate to have it in the fold." BudCube Cultivation Systems ("BCS") is pioneering in the real estate development and medical as well as recreational cannabis cultivation industries. The Company will lease modular turnkey cultivation facilities to new and existing market participants in "mini-storage" or "co-op farming," as well as single-tenant or "big box" concepts. "The company initially conducts research to determine land purchase and improvements, as well as construction and deployment to location for leasing," says Patrick Johnson, CEO of CHIT. "These modules provide the floor space and square footage required for operations. We then deliver, install and connect the modules while providing standard operating procedures and ongoing maintenance as needed." Multi-Tenant (Co-Op) Concept The multi-tenant concept allows for multiple tenants to rent individual, self-contained BCS cultivation units at a secure location staffed with management, maintenance, and security personnel. BCS will offer either facilities constructed of retrofitted shipping containers (Image Here) or Via modular building components (Image Here). Local zoning variances, climate and logistics, will determine which application the company will use. Single Tenant (Big Box) Concept The single-tenant concept allows for an entity to enter into a long-term lease agreement with an option to purchase the facility (plus land if applicable) at the end of the lease term for a sales price determined considering fair market value. This is a much larger square footage concept with construction techniques and materials determined on a case by case basis. (Image Here) "This industry is moving very rapidly," states Patrick J. Johnson, CEO of Cherubim Interests, Inc. "As we see the front of legalization push across States, companies are scrambling to catch up. The market is there, the demand is high, but the supply from legal cultivators is low. Cherubim Interests and BudCube Cultivation Systems are uniquely positioned at this perfect apex of an emerging, billion-dollar market; we are positioning ourselves to meet the impending demand by supplying the facility necessary to bring existing as well as start-up mom and pop businesses into full scale production in a matter of months." Through strategic alliances BCS Leasing Centers will offer the following services to consumers: Standard Operating Procedures Cultivation Inventory Control and Management Systems Genetics Counseling and Testing Procedures Extract Processing and Equipment Design, and Proprietary Product Line(s) "What makes this hybrid business model so compelling is that our facilities will command extraordinary high rental rates per square foot due to rental rates being charged in the cannabis industry across our nation," said CHIT CEO Patrick Johnson. "Our concept, once deployed, will offer investors exponentially high rates of return compared to most traditional commercial real estate assets, and also increasing the companies' valuation significantly faster than traditional commercial assets would in the same scenario for our stockholders." About BudCube Cultivation Systems BudCube Cultivation Systems USA ("BCS") has developed a proprietary, fully portable and scalable, Controlled Environment Cultivation Technology that serves as a turnkey solution for cultivators of legal medical and recreational cannabis, as well as any other plant species. Coupled with a real estate development and property management business model, BudCube Cultivation Systems can position itself anywhere in the world where the cultivation of cannabis is legal. BCS provides cultivation solutions for commercial application. It offers cultivators quick entry into a fast-growing market at a price point that is very attractive when compared to the traditional construction and cultivation solution. BCS features a business model unparalleled in the industry and stands to benefit greatly as more and more market participants seek to gain entry into this sector. For more information, visit www.budcube.com About Cherubim Interests Inc. Cherubim Interests specializes in alternative construction projects, as well as covering the entire spectrum of real estate development: due diligence, acquisition, planning, construction, renovation, and management; providing complete beginning-to-end development programs for mixed use, single, and multifamily projects and properties. For more information, visit www.cherubiminterests.com Safe Harbor Statement This release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E and/or 27E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that are based upon assumptions that in the future may prove not to have been accurate and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including statements as to the future performance of the company and the risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in reports filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations or any of its forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Factors that could cause results to differ include, but are not limited to, the company's ability to raise necessary financing, retention of key personnel, timely delivery of inventory from the company's suppliers, timely product development, product acceptance, and the impact of competitive services and products, in addition to general economic risks and uncertainties. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: Cherubim Interests, Inc. (OTC PINK: CHIT) and BudCube Cultivation Systems USA are planning execution of their stated business objectives in accordance with current understanding of State and Local Laws and Federal Enforcement Policies and Priorities as it relates to Marijuana (as outlined in the Justice Department's Cole Memo dated August 29, 2013), and plan to proceed cautiously with respect to legal and compliance issues. Potential investors and shareholders are cautioned that the companies will obtain advice of counsel prior to actualizing any portion of their business plan. Advice of counsel with regard to specific activities of the companies, Federal, State or Local legal action or changes in Federal Government Policy and/or State and Local Laws may adversely affect business operations and shareholder value. For more information, please contact: Cherubim Interests, Inc. Patrick J. Johnson Chief Executive Officer (844) 842-8872 pjohnson@cherubiminterests.com TUALATIN, OR -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Powin Energy Corporation (OTCQB: PWON), a leading manufacturer of fully integrated energy storage solutions, has secured construction to term project financing from leading renewable power company Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. (TSX: BEP.UN) (NYSE: BEP) for its 8.8 MW/40.8 MWh Stratford Energy Storage Project in Stratford, Ontario, Canada. The non-recourse debt financing will support the project that is currently under construction and expected to be operational by the end of 2017. "Securing non-resource financing is a critical step for energy storage assets themselves as well as the broader market. We believe that closing a deal of this nature with a well-respected group like Brookfield is indicative of market maturation and Powin's future prospects," said Geoffrey Brown, President of Powin Energy. "I'm proud of our team that once again raised the bar in battery storage." The Stratford ESS is contracted with the Ontario Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) as part of IESO's long-term energy plan to provide key ancillary services including reactive support, voltage control, and peaking power to the grid through energy storage technologies. With a usable capacity of 40.8 MWh, when commissioned it will be the largest contracted battery energy storage project in Canada. It will consist of 300 Powin Energy Stack140 systems housed inside a newly constructed, purpose-built warehouse and will be connected to inverters from both Eaton and EPC. The construction outfit Ellis Don broke ground on the building in mid-July, with work on the battery array beginning in late August. Powin's Stack140 utilizes lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The chemistry was chosen for its high thermal stability, long cycle life and well-established track record of performance. At its expected usage rate of one full cycle per day, the system will have a lifespan of over 20 years. With the completion of the Stratford Project, Powin will have brought over 50MWh of utility scale battery storage on-line in 2017. In August, Powin announced they secured a 26 MWh energy storage contract with San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), bringing the company's total contracted backlog to 70 MWh. About Powin Energy Corporation Powin Energy's (OTCQB: PWON) sole focus is creating and deploying the next wave of safe and scalable battery energy storage that is purpose-built for the demands of utility-scale, commercial and industrial, and microgrid applications. Powin's Stack140 modular battery system features a patented Battery Pack Operating System (bp-OS) that provides critical insight into system functions and lifespan via the proprietary Battery Odometer and Warranty Tracker. Powin was incorporated in Oregon in 1990 and has spent almost three decades perfecting supply chain management. Combined with the management team's decades of successful leadership experience in the energy, storage, and utility industries, Powin Energy is able to deliver exceptional value to large-scale energy projects. For more information, visit http://PowinEnergy.com/. Investors can find real time quotes and market information for the company at http://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/PWON/quote Forward Looking Statements This press release contains historical information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the business, financial condition and results of operations of Powin Corporation and Powin Energy Corporation. The words "will", "believe," "expect," "intend," "plan," "should" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views, assumptions and expectations of Powin Energy Corporation with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Powin Energy Corporation to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, or financial information, including, among others, the failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the merger; risks entailed in integration, including employee retention and customer acceptance; the risk that the merger will divert management and other resources from the ongoing operations of the business or otherwise disrupt the conduct of the businesses, potential litigation associated with the merger, and general risks associated with the business of Powin Corporation and Powin Energy Corporation, including changes in the markets in which the businesses operate and in general economic and business conditions, loss of key customers, key customer acceptance of new battery storage technology, ability to completely fund operations to meet potential customer orders, changes in government regulation and tax policy, availability of tax credits, changes in carbon reduction requirements imposed on utilities, unpredictable sales cycles, competitive pressures, market acceptance of new products, inability to meet efficiency and cost reduction objectives, changes in business strategy and various other factors, whether referenced or not referenced in this press release. Various other risks and uncertainties may affect Powin Energy Corporation and its results of operations, as described in reports filed by the Powin Energy Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, including its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. Powin Energy Corporation does not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Media Contact: Mercom Communications www.mercomcapital.com Wendy Prabhu Email Contact 1.512.215.4452 TORONTO, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- - All $ are USD Manufacturers now have a viable option for placing products on the Japanese HazLoc market in a faster and cost-effective way as CSA Group has received recognition to issue certificates to Japanese requirements. The global market for equipment required for use in hazardous locations (HazLoc) is expected to experience continued growth, with several research studies citing an $8.2 billion value by 2022. Due to political, social and economic developments, Japan represents an estimated $120 million of this market. In spite of this, the country presents significant challenges as an export destination for manufacturers of HazLoc equipment. Historically, manufacturers wanting to export their products to Japan had only one choice in acquiring the necessary certification. This process often took months - sometimes years - for product approvals to be provided to customers based outside of Japan. This delay, coupled with limited insight into the progress or the national requirements for certifications, caused manufacturers considerable frustration. As a result of this significant barrier to trade and global export, many companies decided to abandon any plans of certifying their products for the Japanese market. CSA Group's recognition from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) in October 2017 enables them to independently issue certificates to Japanese requirements. The recognition is held at CSA Group's UK location, where a large team of experienced engineers are qualified to work on Japanese approvals and can achieve this process in weeks rather than months or years. This is due in part to a reliance on IECEx test data as the basis - therefore making it possible to realize a project turnaround time much quicker than what manufacturers have historically experienced. To read more about the process, download our white paper. About CSA Group Testing, Inspection and Certification CSA Group is a global organization providing testing, inspection and certification services for products in many market sectors, including home and commercial, industrial, healthcare, and emerging technologies. CSA Group also provides functional safety, cybersecurity, and management systems certification. CSA Group is one of the largest providers of safety and environmental certification for Canada and the U.S., and the CSA mark appears on billions of products worldwide. For more information about CSA Group, please visit http://www.csagroup.org. Media Contact: David Korvah Marketing Sector Manager CSA Group +1(216)-524-4990 David.Korvah@csagroup.org MONTREAL, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release. Covera Technologies Inc., a Montreal-based InsurTech startup that uses technology to find its customers optimal insurance rates every year, has raised $1M as part of its seed financing round led by Ferst Capital Partners with participation from FinTech angel investors. The seed round, which was preceded by a $500K pre-seed financing round in 2016, brings the total capital raised by Covera to $1.5M. "No one should be allowing their insurance to automatically renew - there are almost always benefits to shopping around" said Scott Loong, CEO of Covera. "Covera provides everyday Canadians with a non-conflicted and technology-first approach to improving their mobility in the market - gone are the days where Canadians are trapped by the boring process of shopping. Covera handles it for you, year-after-year, and gets you the best value in the market when your home or auto insurance expires." Covera raised $500K at the ideation stage from Ferst Capital Partners in January 2016. Covera raised an additional $1M in September 2017 and expects subsequent closings to bring the total amount raised by Covera to $2M by November of 2017. "There is an enormous opportunity for disruption in P&C insurance distribution and Covera is innovating by effectively leveraging data and AI to gain insights. Covera is using a unique go-to-market strategy by targeting the insurance renewals space. Ferst Capital Partners is proud to be leading this investment in an industry that has gained global traction whereby Canada has lagged behind," says Dominique Ferst, Managing Partner at Ferst Capital Partners. The new financing will be used by Covera in three key areas: to support growth and user acquisition initiatives, drive geographic expansion Canada-wide, and build the team in order to accelerate product development. About Covera Technologies Inc: 80% of Canadians allow their insurance to automatically renew when it expires. The insurance renewal process is frustrating and time consuming so few Canadians bother. The result is that millions of Canadians are under protected or are paying too much. Covera breaks customers out of this cycle by automatically shopping for your home and auto insurance, year-after-year. Customers sign up in minutes and when their current insurance expires, Covera uses data and proprietary algorithms to find insurance alternatives that can be purchased in just a few clicks. About Ferst Capital Partners: Ferst Capital Partners (FCP) is an investment firm on the forefront of change. As investors, we provide strategic capital and support to FinTech startups. As a startup studio, we support the next generation of emerging FinTech entrepreneurs who are working hard to improve the financial lives of all Canadians. We focus on how Canadians spend, save, borrow, insure and invest their hard-earned money because we believe these things are important. www.ferstcapital.com To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20171016-Covera-Photo-800.jpg Contacts: To schedule interviews, please contact: Covera Technologies Inc. Scott Loong Chief Executive Officer scott@covera.ai Ferst Capital Partners Marko Jelavic Associate mjelavic@ferstcapital.com TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Enbridge Gas Distribution is challenging students to find ways to save energy, while earning great prizes for their schools. Enbridge Gas Distribution's Energy School Challenge (the Challenge) - now in its 2nd year - hopes to inspire students to learn more about energy efficiency and natural gas conservation in a fun, interactive and competitive way. This year, the Challenge has grown to include both elementary and secondary school students in Ontario. Students from participating schools will help save energy by participating in conservation activities; making positive behavioral changes associated with the school's energy usage; reporting on these activities; and measuring their progress. Students can then transfer their classroom knowledge to real-life scenarios at home. Participating schools will have access to the Challenge curriculum materials that will guide students through learning opportunities and activities. The school will receive points for the completion of the Challenge activities and curriculum. In addition, Enbridge Gas Distribution will be working with participating school boards to help leverage existing energy dashboards, so that students can view their school's energy consumption. Prizes Enbridge Gas Distribution will award $3,000 to the top elementary and secondary schools with the most points; while the second and third place elementary and secondary schools will receive $2,000 and $1,000, respectively. The Challenge will run until May 4, 2018. More information and program registration details can be found at energyschoolchallenge.com About Enbridge Gas Distribution Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. has a more than 165-year history and is Canada's largest natural gas distribution company. It is owned by Enbridge Inc., a Canadian-based leader in energy transportation and distribution, and has ranked as one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations for the past eight years. Enbridge Gas Distribution distributes natural gas to over two million customers in Ontario. Contacts: Tanya Bruckmueller 1-855-884-5112 enbridgegasmedia@enbridge.com Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. Burlington, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 14, 2017) - GTA Resources and Mining Inc. (TSXV: GTA) is pleased to report it has completed the acquisition of the Big Duck Lake gold property (the "Property" or "Big Duck Lake"), subject to an NSR, just in time for the beginning of a drill program on the property. Big Duck Lake is located 25 km north of GTA's Northshore property (indicated resources of 191,000 oz Au oz and inferred resources of 824,000 oz Au; see NI43-101 report from June, 2014) and 100 km west of the prolific Hemlo Gold Mines. Big Duck Lake consists of 65 claim units within the Hemlo-Schreiber Greenstone Belt and is centred on an altered gold-rich porphyry, which management believes are similar to rocks hosting the Hemlo Gold Mines mineralization. Big Duck Lake covers six kilometres of prospective geology containing numerous gold and base metal showings including the Coco-Estelle deposit, which hosts a historic resource* of 53,700 tonnes grading 10.7 grams of gold per tonne ("g/t"). Additionally the claims are located 4 km west of the past-producing Winston Lake Zinc Mine, which produced 2.68 million tonnes of 1.05% copper, 12.05% zinc, 1.07 g/t gold and 31.37 g/t silver. GTA has mobilized a drill to Big Duck Lake and will target its initial holes on the Coco-Estelle zone to both verify the character of the gold mineralization and to expand on the stronger parts of the zone. Results will be released as they become available. "It was important for us to own Big Duck Lake outright before the drill results are in the public domain," said Peter M. Clausi, CEO. "Our due diligence review told us this is a highly prospective target, and we want our shareholders to be the beneficiaries of this drill program." QA/QC - Wayne Reid, P. Geo., VP Exploration for GTA and a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, is responsible for this release. He has extensive experience in the exploration for gold and base metals in the Hemlo-Schreiber Greenstone Belt. * As this is a historic resource, that is not NI 43-101 compliant, it cannot be relied upon. ABOUT GTA RESOURCES - GTA is a publicly traded mineral exploration company led by an experienced and successful management team. It is focused on exploring for gold and zinc in Canada. GTA currently has four projects, with three in Ontario and one in Newfoundland. The three Ontario projects are the > 54%-owned Northshore Gold Project, near Schreiber in the Hemlo Gold Camp; the 100% owned Auden Project, near Hearst, Ontario; and the 100% Big Duck Lake Gold Project also in Hemlo. GTA also owns 100% of the Burnt Pond Zinc-Silver Project in central Newfoundland, along strike from Teck Resources Limited's past-producing Duck Pond Mine. GTA has roughly 46 million shares outstanding. On behalf of the board of directors GTA Resources and Mining Inc. "Peter M. Clausi" President and CEO 416-890-1232 For more information, please visit the corporate website at www.gtaresources.com. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including statements regarding the anticipated content, commencement, duration and cost of exploration programs, anticipated exploration program results, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves, the timing of the receipt of assay results, and business and financing plans and trends, are forward-looking statements.Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions or are those which, by their nature, refer to future events. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, 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.The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include those related to weather, equipment and staff availability; performance of third parties; risks related to the exploration stage of the Company's projects; market fluctuations in prices for securities of exploration stage companies and in commodity prices; and uncertainties about the availability of additional financing; risks related to the Company's ability to identify one or more economic deposits on the properties, and variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located on the properties; risks related to the Company's ability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its activities on the properties; and risks related to the Company's ability to produce minerals from the properties successfully or profitably. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. All of the Company's public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials, including the latest technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties. This press release is not, and is not to be construed in any way as, an offer to buy or sell securities in the United States. HONG KONG -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Weyland Tech Inc. (OTCQX: WEYL), a global provider of mobile business applications, announced today that its food services pilot program has launched. In the pilot, announced in May, Weyland Tech is collaborating on developing Online-to-Offline ("O2O") applications initially targeting the food service industry. "In our projections the revenue for the pilot alone, with just 3 food distributors, reaches a $250,000 annual run rate over the next 12 months. In the coming months, we will open the platform up to additional distributors and are targeting a $2,000,000 run rate exiting the first full year," said Brent Suen, Weyland's CEO. Suen continued, "We expect exponential growth as we open the platform up to the whole industry and add the business to consumer modules. We'll also take the lessons learned and modules built into our platforms in the United States and through our partners in international markets." "In Hong Kong, where the trial is based, dining out in restaurants grew to over $13 billion last year; we want our mobile apps enabling transactions in that kind of growing marketplace. Southeast Asia has some of the highest rates for daily dining outside of the home in the world." John MacNeil, Weyland Tech Director of Strategy and Capital Markets said, "We're really excited about the potential of online-to-offline in mobile applications. The pilot is B2B, as the platform develops we'll bring the same capabilities to B2C. Outside of the most developed Asian cities, millions of buyers are not directly served by Third Party Logistics providers ("3PL") but can reach centralized physical locations for pick-up. The solutions we are developing with Faith United will allow merchants to reach each other and online buyers and close sales that would not otherwise occur." Mr. Suen added, "Most people today talk about online-to-offline as a strategy to bring online customers to brick and mortar. While the focus today is using online marketing and advertising to entice the customer to visit a physical store and make a purchase, the potential is so much larger." "We think of online-to-offline broadly, using the same tools to generate any real world action. To Weyland, it's not just buying something in a store, it can be restocking product like we are doing with our Faith United trial, it can be getting people to come out to a concert, or to an eSports event to watch their favorite players live." Mr. MacNeil continued, "Bain & Company, looked into this with Google, and what they found is a sizeable opportunity for O2O in Southeast Asia." "Based on their March 2016 report, online retail penetration in the region was just 3%. In China and the US, it was 14% with online sales totaling $293 billion and $270 billion, respectively." "We expect that the penetration of digital purchases and mobile purchases in particular will continue to grow rapidly. As only 100 Million of the approximately 400 Million Southeast Asian people aged 16-years of age or older made digital purchases that year, there is a lot of room for growth." With this pilot program and the platform developed with Faith United, Weyland will begin to address just one of the O2O opportunities we see in the region. The trial will involve ordering and fulfillment of frozen foods to food distributors in Hong Kong. Following the trial, Weyland plans to extend the platform to B2C by approaching restaurants, factory kitchens and foodstuff manufacturers to expand their reach to individual and business consumers. We look forward to providing updates as we make progress in this venture. About Weyland Tech Inc. Weyland Tech's CreateApp platform is focused on the Asia markets. Our CreateApp platform offered in 12 languages, enables small and medium sized businesses ("SMB's") to create native mobile applications ("APP") for Apple's iOS and Google Android without technical knowledge or background. Empowering SMB's to increase sales, reach more customers and promote their products and services via simple easy to build mobile APPs in an affordable and cost-effective manner. Follow Weyland Tech online at: Weyland Tech Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/weylandtech) Weyland Tech Twitter Feed (https://twitter.com/weylandtechinc) Weyland Tech LinkedIn Page (https://linkedin.com/company/weylandtech) Brent Suen, CEO Public Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/BrentSuenWEYL) Brent Suen, CEO Public Twitter Feed (https://www.twitter.com/BrentSuenWEYL) Safe Harbor Statement This release contains certain "forward-looking statements" relating to the business of the Company. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein are "forward-looking statements" including statements regarding: the continued growth of the e-commerce segment and the ability of the Company to continue its expansion into that segment; the ability of the Company to attract customers and partners and generate revenues; the ability of the Company to successfully execute its business plan; the business strategy, plans, and objectives of the Company; and any other statements of non-historical information. These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Company's periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website (http://www.sec.gov). All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume any duty to update these forward-looking statements. CONTACT WEYLAND TECH @: info@weyland-tech.com www.weyland-tech.com BEIJING (dpa-AFX) - The White House has announced the final itinerary of President Donald Trump's extensive five-nation Asia tour next month. The President will visit Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines during his November 3-14 tour. Trump's maiden trip to the region as President is aimed to underscore his commitment to longstanding American alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. Leaving White House on November 3, the President will stop in the US Pacific island state of Hawaii before crossing over to Asia. He will receive a briefing from the U. S. Pacific Command. He will visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. The President will commence his visit to Asia beginning with Japan on November 5. While in Japan, he will meet with American and Japanese service members, and participate in bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who will also host the President for a meeting with the families of Japanese citizens abducted by the North Korean regime. During his visit to South Korea on November 7, Trump will meet his counterpart Moon Jae-in and visit American and South Korean service members. The President will speak at the National Assembly, where he will celebrate the enduring alliance and friendship between the two countries, and call on the international community to join together in maximizing pressure on North Korea. On November 8, Trump will arrive in Chinese capital Beijing for a series of bilateral, commercial, and cultural events, including meetings with President Xi Jinping. Trump will travel to Danang, Vietnam, on November 10. There, he will participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting and deliver a speech at the APEC CEO Summit. The US President will present his Government's vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing America's economic prosperity, Sarah Sanders said. On November 11, Trump will travel to Hanoi, Vietnam for an official visit and bilateral engagements with President Tran Dai Quang and other senior Vietnamese leaders. Trump will arrive in Philippines capital Manila on November 12 to participate in the Special Gala Celebration Dinner for the 50th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The next day, Trump will celebrate the 40th anniversary of U.S.-ASEAN relations at the U.S.-ASEAN Summit and participate in bilateral meetings with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and other leaders. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de CHARLESTON, SC and HARPENDEN, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwired - October 17, 2017) - weatherXchange, the platform which helps companies access index-based weather risk protection, is pleased to announce that Munich Re will be providing indicative pricing as part of the forthcoming weatherXchange Instantaneous Indicative Pricing service. Instantaneous Indicative Pricing will help streamline the structuring process for hedgers and brokers by providing an immediate idea of the costs of a structure without the need to approach the Protection Seller in person. Introduction of this service on the weatherXchange platform helps companies such as Munich Re increase their online visibility and web presence by effectively giving them a 24/7 presence and by reducing the workload and time required to close a weather transaction. "As one of the largest Protection Sellers in the weather market we are excited that Munich Re will be participating in the Instantaneous Indicative Pricing service," said David Whitehead Co-CEO of weatherXchange. "Munich Re has years' of experience covering all transaction types from traditional weather hedges to cutting-edge products. Their flexibility on deal size, geography, and type of coverage will be a benefit for all market participants. We believe that the efficiency of the weatherXchange platform with instant pricing will further enhance Munich Re's ability to quickly serve those interested in weather risk protection." "Munich Re is pleased to be an originating member of the weatherXchange platform," said Mark Tawney, President at Munich Re Trading LLC. "Munich Re's relationship with weatherXchange is an additional step in our long term focus in valuing technology as a strategic asset in our business. We are committed to providing our clients with continuous access to our products and competitive risk capital. This partnering will present our clients with increased transparency and efficiencies in managing their weather risk exposures." About Munich Re For more than 135 years, Munich Re has been tackling the major challenges of the future. Our long-standing involvement in weather-related coverage, excellent financial strength, highly experienced global team and networks, safeguards business against the whims of nature and adds value to businesses. Our business model is based on the combination of primary insurance and reinsurance under one roof. We take on risks worldwide of every type and complexity, and our experience, financial strength, efficiency and first-class service make us the first choice for all matters relating to risk. Our client relationships are built on trust and cooperation. Munich Re Trading LLC, a subsidiary of Munich Re, transacts derivative-based risk products primarily to address weather, commodity and other energy related risks. About weatherXchange weatherXchange Limited is part of the Speedwell Weather group of companies which have been involved in the index-based weather risk market since its earliest days in 1999. The weatherXchange Platform links Hedgers, Broker-Advisors and Protection Sellers thereby helping businesses with weather risk to more easily access weather risk protection. weatherXchange provides free access to thousands of worldwide quality weather data sets and a user-friendly tool to simplify the design of weather protection contracts. These can then be sent at a click of a button to multiple Protection Sellers for pricing. The weatherXchange Platform also offers post-transaction services necessary to settle a transaction and to monitor the performance of a hedge. For further information on weatherXchange please visit www.weatherXchange.com or contact: ClientOnBoarding@weatherXchange.com. If your firm is experienced in the weather risk mitigation sector and is interested in working with weatherXchange as a Broker-Advisor please contact NewPartners@weatherXchange.com. weatherXchange Limited is registered in England number 3790989 and authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Its registered address is Mardall House, 9-11 Vaughan Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 4HU. David Whitehead Co-CEO weatherXchange 418 King St, Floor 2, Charleston, SC 29403, USA T: +1 (843) 737-4843 E: david.whitehead@weatherxchange.com Web: www.weatherXchange.com FOOTHILL RANCH, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Applied Voice & Speech Technologies, Inc. (AVST) today announced that its industry-leading Unified Communications (UC) platform, CX-E, is now hosted within collab9's FedRAMP(SM) authorized cloud UC infrastructure. This follows the earlier announcement that AVST and collab9 had entered a partnership to deliver a joint solution to federal, state and local government entities. In 2016, collab9 was the first UC cloud service provider to be granted a FedRAMP Moderate Authority to Operate. Through this newly forged partnership with AVST, collab9 expands its FedRAMP authorized, best-of-breed UC portfolio, featuring integrated solutions from multiple, industry-leading UC technology vendors. With this joint UC as a Service (UCaaS) solution, AVST and collab9 continue their shared mission to accelerate public sector movement to the cloud. Steve Boberski, Vice President of Business Development for collab9, said of the partnership, "AVST's CX-E technology is an excellent complement to our secure hosted UC product suite. AVST shares our objective of enabling cloud transformation for government agencies, and this exciting partnership delivers an integral component of any agency's plan to move to a hosted UC environment." Tom Minifie, AVST CTO, said, "AVST is excited to be an integral part of the collab9 FedRAMP Authorized Service Offering. Our CX-E communications platform is designed to improve personal, group and organizational productivity and is now available as a FedRAMP authorized solution." For more information about AVST and collab9's hosted UCaaS solution, visit www.avst.com/collab9fedramp. About collab9 collab9 is a best-of-breed, FedRAMP Authorized Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) provider catering to public sector security requirements. collab9's solution integrates voice, video, messaging, mobility, presence, conferencing, and customer care in one predictable, user-based subscription model. Available on multiple federal and state government procurement vehicles, collab9 enables agencies to securely move their communications infrastructure into the cloud with a platform designed to meet NIST cloud security standards. For more information, visit: www.collab9.com; follow @collab9 on Twitter. About AVST With more than 35 years of continuous innovation, Applied Voice & Speech Technologies, Inc. (AVST) is a trusted developer of software-based, enterprise-class Unified Communications (UC) solutions. Our mission is to design, deliver and support communications solutions that transform the productivity of individual workers, teams and enterprises while leveraging the value of their existing and evolving IT infrastructure. Thousands of businesses worldwide rely on AVST's advanced voice, mobility, team communications, and business process UC solutions to meet their mission-critical communications requirements. The world-class interoperability and flexibility of AVST's UC platform provides a future-proofed bridge to their digital future. Headquartered in Orange County, California, AVST maintains facilities in Seattle, Washington, Victoria B.C., Canada, the United Kingdom, and has remote sales offices throughout the United States. AVST's UC solutions are sold and supported worldwide by an extensive network of resellers and OEM partners. To learn more about AVST, our products and partners, please visit www.avst.com, or you can follow us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. Media Contact: Stephanie Olsen Lages & Associates (949) 453-8080 Email Contact POWAY, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Solar Integrated Roofing Corporation (OTC PINK: SIRC) announces they have entered into a national agreement with TPO, third-party-ownership and finance company, to enhance their financing options for their solar and roofing customers. "Bottom line, we have basically eliminated any financial roadblocks for our customers to go solar. This agreement will make our expansion into new areas much easier and more streamlined," said CEO Dave Massey. "Under these types of arrangements, a resident or business hosts a renewable system that is owned by a separate investor." The company is working with Sunrun and offering their financing to all of Solar Integrated's clients. The homeowner simply pays a low, locked-in rate for the power that's produced, typically saving 20% on their electric bill. "This arrangement helps us expand our footprint," added Massey. "Electric utility companies have sent letters to consumers recently, warning of California-Mandated High Usage Charges going into effect next month. These surcharges can dramatically increase electric bills. Our range of financing and TPO options now makes it easy for our customers to decide to go solar, because in every case, they will be saving money from day one. It simply makes no sense to not go solar." About Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. Solar Integrated Roofing Corporation (SIRC) is an integrated solar and roofing installation company specializing in commercial and residential properties with a focus on acquisitions of like companies to build a footprint nationally. For more information, please visit: www.solarintegratedroofingcorp.com About Sunrun Sunrun is the largest dedicated residential solar company in the United States. In collaboration with their certified partner network, Sunrun helps homeowners get solar energy that is perfect for their home and lifestyle, simply and quickly. Forward-Looking Statements: Any statements made in this press release which are not historical facts contain certain forward-looking statements; as such term is defined in the Private Security Litigation Reform Act of 1995, concerning potential developments affecting the business, prospects, financial condition and other aspects of the company to which this release pertains. The actual results of the specific items described in this release, and the company's operations generally, may differ materially from what is projected in such forward-looking statements. Although such statements are based upon the best judgments of management of the company as of the date of this release, significant deviations in magnitude, timing and other factors may result from business risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, the company's dependence on third parties, general market and economic conditions, technical factors, the availability of outside capital, receipt of revenues and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the company. The company disclaims any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement. This press release shall not be deemed a general solicitation. Contact: Solar Integrated Roofing Corporation Investor Relations John Randolph (760) 916-7444 -New collaboration with Microsoft covering Microsoft Azure and Microsoft SQL Server 2016 - SibosMurex, an industry leader in trading, risk management and processing solutions for capital markets, announces it has certified its MX.3 technology platform to run on Microsoft Azure. Since early 2016, Murex has collaborated with Microsoft to bring to market solutions enabling clients' digital transformation. This collaboration has now come to fruition with the availability of support for the Murex MX.3 platform on Azure, as well as the planned integration of Microsoft SQL Server 2016 as a relational database for MX.3. Murex has certified Azure for its most demanding use cases including GPU-powered solutions for computationally intensive workloads. This enables Murex clients to leverage the flexibility and economies of scale of the cloud to meet new requirements. Those opting to adopt cloud as part of their infrastructure will continue to benefit from the full support of Murex's expert client services teams around the world. Maroun Edde, CEO of Murex, says "Increasingly we see banks looking for ways to rationalize, simplify, and reduce total cost of ownership. Cloud brings tremendous agility to our clients and is a key enabler of their transformation initiatives. Our clients are accustomed to the highest level of support from Murex and we're now fully confident that we can continue to provide the same high standards of service in the cloud." Janet Lewis, Vice President of Worldwide Financial Services at Microsoft, comments, "Microsoft is committed to supporting financial institutions in their digital transformation journey, providing firms with the global scale and enterprise-grade security to deploy applications in the cloud. Murex solutions powered by Microsoft Azure provide businesses with the productivity and intelligence to run their most demanding business applications in the cloud." Philip Wright, Chief Architect at Murex, adds "The choice of Microsoft SQL Server 2016 made sense for Murex and Murex clients due to its availability as a managed service in the cloud as well as being supported by Microsoft for on-premises deployment. For these reasons, SQL Server 2016 will be an enabler for customers' transition from on-premises to cloud." About Murex (www.murex.com For more than 30 years, Murex has been providing enterprise-wide, cross-asset financial technology solutions to capital markets players. Its MX.3 platform supports trading, treasury, risk and post-trade operations, enabling clients to better meet regulatory requirements, manage enterprise-wide risk, and control costs. With more than 45,000 daily users in 60 countries, Murex has clients in many sectors, from banking and asset management to energy and commodities. Murex is an independent company with 2,000 employees across 17 countries. Murex is committed to providing cutting-edge technology, superior customer service, and product innovation. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005952/en/ Contacts: Murex Nicole Fisher, +33 1 44 05 32 00 nicole.fisher@murex.com or Cognito Media Samuel Barber, +44 (0)20 7426 9429 Samuel.Barber@cognitomedia.com or Cognito Media Yvonne Maher, +44 (0)20 7426 9412 Yvonne.Maher@cognitomedia.com The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. will hold the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017 for 10 days from Friday, October 27 through Sunday, November 5, 2017 at Tokyo Big Sight. The theme for this year's show is BEYOND THE MOTOR This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005977/en/ TOKYO CONNECTED LAB: THE FUTURE Visualizing mobility in the Tokyo of the future (Graphic: Business Wire) Following the Press Days on October 25-26 open only for journalists, the show will be opened to the public from October 27 (Fri) through November 5 (Sun). All 15 brands from 14 Japanese manufacturers along with 19 brands from 13 international manufacturers will be exhibited at the show. A total of 153 companies and organizations from 10 countries will be represented in this comprehensive show that includes passenger cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, carrozzeria, vehicle bodies, parts, machinery and tools, as well as automobile-related services. List of Exhibitors "We hope to create the world's best technology show," says Hiroto Saikawa, Chairman of JAMA and President of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. "We want visitors to see the technological capacity of Japanese companies." TOKYO CONNECTED LAB 2017 An interactive journey into the future of innovative mobility Tokyo Motor Show 2017's new signature event, "TOKYO CONNECTED LAB 2017", will provide opportunities to experience the connectivity and new values created by a mobile society of the future. Three hands-on programs will provide easy to understand explanations of these values. THE FUTURE Visualizing mobility in the Tokyo of the future This fully interactive event will reflect participants' ideas of an urban-centered "mobile society" of the future based on their feedback and six key concepts ("social good," "universal," "move," "drive," "private," and "share"). A dome with a capacity of 300 people will provide a constantly updated 360-degree projection visualizing the input from participants. THE MAZE Connecting with a futuristic Tokyo Discover what's possible when cars, drivers, and city infrastructure all connect! This event enables 30 visitors at a time to drive their own cars and travel through a fully connected, maze-like futuristic Tokyo. THE MEET UP Exchanging ideas about the future of mobility Produced in collaboration with the online news site NewsPicks, THE MEET UP is a series of talk sessions that will build on the "BEYOND THE MOTOR" concept. A preview of the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017 is available at http://www.tokyo-motorshow.com/en/outline/image_movie.html. For more information about the Show, please visit http://www.tokyo-motorshow.com/en/ View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005977/en/ Contacts: The 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017 Press Center Office c/o Platinum, Inc. Ryohei Nakamura, +81-3-6679-2303 tms-pr-support@dmc.dentsu.co.jp Fax: +81-3-6679-6044 MetalNRG plc ("MetalNRG" or the "Company") 17 October 2017 Holdings in Company MetalNRG plc (NEX:MNRG) the natural resource investing company quoted on the NEX Exchange Growth Market in London announces that the Company has today received notification from Andrew Neal that he owns 5,656,000 ordinary shares, representing 4.07% of the issued share capital of the Company. The Directors of the Company accept responsibility for the contents of this announcement. Contact details: MetalNRG plc Paul Johnson (Chief Executive Officer) +44 (0) 7766 465617 NEX Exchange Corporate Adviser PETERHOUSE CORPORATE FINANCE LIMITED Guy Miller Mark Anwyl Corporate Broker +44 (0) 1483 413500 SI CAPITAL Nick Emerson Andy Thacker +44 (0) 20 7469 0930 Notes for Editors: MetalNRG is quoted on the NEX Exchange Growth Market in London with the stock code MNRG and is a natural resource investing company. NEX Exchange: Investors wishing to consider trading in NEX Exchange Growth Market quoted shares can access this market from numerous brokers, a full list of which can be accessed through the following link: http://www.nexexchange.com/for-investors/find-a-broker/ The list accessed through the link above includes certain brokers offering online trading of NEX Exchange quoted shares. The Investing Policy of the Company is as follows: The Company's Investing Policy is to invest in and/or acquire companies and/or projects within the natural resources and/or energy sector with potential for growth and value creation, over the medium to long term. The Company will also consider opportunities in other related sectors if the Board considers there is an opportunity to generate an attractive return for Shareholders. This will include natural resource technologies and fintech opportunities offering leverage to resource identification, processing, recording, storage and trading businesses. Where appropriate, the Board may seek to invest in businesses where it may influence the business at a board level, add their expertise to the management of the business, and utilise their significant industry relationships. The Company's interests in a proposed investment and/or acquisition may range from a minority position to full ownership and may comprise one investment or multiple investments. The proposed investments may be in either quoted or unquoted companies; be made by direct acquisitions or farm-ins; and may be in companies, partnerships, earn-in joint ventures, debt or other loan structures, joint ventures or direct or indirect interests in assets or projects. The Board may focus on investments where intrinsic value can be achieved from the restructuring of investments or merger of complementary businesses. The Board expects that investments will typically be held for the medium to long term, although short term disposal of assets cannot be ruled out if there is an opportunity to generate an attractive return for Shareholders. The Board will place no minimum or maximum limit on the length of time that any investment may be held. The Company may be both an active and a passive investor depending on the nature of the individual opportunity. Where the Company builds a portfolio of related assets it is possible that there may be cross-holdings between such assets. The Company does not currently intend to fund any investments with debt or other borrowings, but may do so if appropriate. Investments in early stage assets are expected to be mainly in the form of equity, with debt potentially being raised later to fund the development of such assets. Investments in later stage assets are more likely to include an element of debt to equity gearing. The Board may also offer new Ordinary Shares by way of consideration as well as cash, thereby helping to preserve the Company's cash for working capital and as a reserve against unforeseen contingencies including, for example, delays in collecting accounts receivable, unexpected changes in the economic environment and operational problems. The Board will conduct initial due diligence appraisals of potential business or projects and, where they believe further investigation is warranted, intend to appoint appropriately qualified persons to assist. The Proposed Board believes its expertise will enable it to determine quickly which opportunities could be viable and so progress quickly to formal due diligence. The Company will not have a separate investment manager. The Company proposes to carry out a comprehensive and thorough project review process in which all material aspects of a potential project or business will be subject to rigorous due diligence, as appropriate. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 17, 2017) - Appia Energy Corp. (CSE: API) (OTC: APAAF) (FSE: A0I) (MU: A0I) (BE: A0I) (the "Company" or "Appia") to announce the discovery of additional radioactive outcrops at its Alces Lake project, Northern Saskatchewan. The Company completed ground radiometric prospecting and sampling of outcrops and boulders on the Alces Lake property in September. Geochemical assay results for the Rare Earth Elements ("REEs") and radioactivity readings are pending. Highlights from the Alces Lake property ground radiometric prospecting program includes the discovery of new radioactive outcrops with high concentrations of visible monazite (the mineral hosting REEs on the Alces Lake property); the Wilson zone outcrops contain radioactivity measuring up to 50,000 counts-per-second (" cps ") ") the Danny zone outcrops and boulders are located 200 m west of the Wilson zone and host radioactivity measuring up to 30,000 cps, and the Hinge zone outcrops and boulders are located 500 m northwest of the Wilson zone with scintillometer readings up to 14,000 cps. Rare earth element mineralization was first discovered on the Alces Lake property at the Wilson zone in 1954. Subsequent exploration by the Saskatchewan Geological Survey in 2010, and by Appia in 2011 and 2013 identified REE mineralization with up to 35.7 weight % total REEs (see Appia news release, May 22, 2014). An airborne radiometric, magnetic and VLF-EM survey over the Eastside property was completed in September. The final results are still pending and will be released when the data has been analyzed and interpreted by the Company. This winter, Appia will return to the Loranger property to continue diamond drilling for uranium on the highly prospective exploration targets. The reader is cautioned that Appia uses scintillometer field readings only as a preliminary indication of the presence of radioactive materials (uranium, thorium and/or potassium), and that scintillometer results may not be used directly to quantify or qualify radioactive mineral concentrations of the rock samples measured. Background radioactivity measured in the field ranged from 100 cps to 2,500 cps. Elevated radioactivity is defined here as at least 2x background values or greater than 500 cps if background radioactivity ranged from 100 to 250 cps. All rock samples from the Alces Lake prospecting program have been sent to Saskatchewan Research Council's Geoanalytical Laboratory in Saskatoon, SK for further multi-element analysis, and determination of source(s) and concentrations of radioactive materials. Lab analysis results will be announced when completed and reviewed by the Company. About Appia: Appia is a Canadian publicly-traded company in the uranium and rare earth element sectors. The Company is currently focusing on discovering high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Loranger, Eastside and Otherside, as well as delineating high-grade REEs and uranium on the Alces Lake property. The company holds the surface rights to exploration for about 62,976 hectares (155,617 acres) in Saskatchewan. The company also has NI 43-101 compliant resources of 8.0 M lbs U3O8 and 47.7 M lbs TREE Indicated, and 47.7 M lbs U3O8 and 133.2 M lbs TREE Inferred in the historic mining camp of Elliot Lake in Ontario (previously reported in the Company's news release, August 1, 2013). The resources are largely unconstrained along strike and down dip. Appia's technical team is directed by James Sykes, who has had direct and indirect involvement with over 450 M lbs. U3O8 being discovered in five deposits in the Athabasca Basin. Appia currently has 52.3 million common shares outstanding, 65.3 million shares fully diluted. The technical content concerning the Alces Lake property in this news release was reviewed and approved by Thomas Skimming, P.Eng, a Director of Appia, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward- looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information, please contact: Tom Drivas, President, CEO and Director: (tel) 416-546-2707, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) appia@appiaenergy.ca James Sykes, Vice-President, Exploration and Development, (tel) 306-221-8717, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) jsykes@uraniumgeologist.com Frank van de Water, Chief Financial Officer and Director, (tel) 416-546-2707, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) fvandewater@rogers.com Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - October 17, 2017) - International renewable energy developers Juwi and Eren Renewable Energy; global engineering consultancy Hatch, and innovation accelerator the Ontario Centres of Excellence have joined as sponsors of the 5th Energy and Mines World Congress. The Congress, set to take place November 27-28 at the Hilton Toronto, offers senior mining leaders and global renewables, finance, and government experts a unique opportunity to network and explore solutions for affordable, reliable, and low-carbon energy for mines. Both Juwi and Eren have developed solar hybrid solutions with mining clients and will showcase key findings and updates on these landmark projects at the Congress. Hatch will lead a dynamic session with mining leaders Teck and Goldcorp on the strategic role of carbon in shaping energy choices for mines. The Ontario Centres of Excellence will provide details on funding for low-carbon initiatives in the mining sector. In addition to these key supporters, this year's Congress has attracted an impressive and growing list of international sponsors including Pfisterer, ViZn Energy Systems, ABB, BBA, Advisian, Deloitte, Canada Clean Fuels, and G+ Plastics. These companies are at the forefront of delivering solutions for mines that address the energy costs, reliability, and carbon emission concerns that have become strategic priorities for global mining operators. The expanded exhibition is set to sell-out emphasising the growing importance of energy in mining. Over 300 participants from the mining, energy, government and finance sectors are expected at the 5th annual Congress which is part of Energy and Mines' international event series. Current mining participants include senior representatives from Barrick Gold, Goldcorp, Glencore, B2Gold, IAMGOLD, De Beers, Anglo American, Kinross Gold, Agnico Eagle, Excellon Resources, ArcelorMittal, New Gold, AngloGold Ashanti, Teck Resources, Victoria Gold, Erdene Resources, Commerce Resources, Fortune Minerals, U308, and Avalon Advanced Materials. Click here to download the Congress brochure Click here to view the full list of speakers Click here to view the agenda Click here to register for the Congress. Early bird pricing ends Oct 31 Visit the event website for full conference details or contact Adrienne Baker +1 613 680 2482 adrienne.baker@energyandmines.com PUNE, India, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new market research report "Endoscope Reprocessing Market by Product (High-level Disinfectants & Test Strips, Detergents & Wipes, Automated Endoscope Reprocessors, Endoscope Tracking Systems, Brushes), End User (Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgery Centers) - Global Forecast to 2022", published by MarketsandMarkets', the global market is expected to reach USD 2.15 Billion by 2022 from an estimated USD 1.42 Billion in 2017, at a CAGR of 8.6%. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160303/792302 ) Browse 65 Market Data Tables and 27 Figures spread through 155 Pages and in-depth TOC on"Endoscope Reprocessing Market" http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/endoscope-reprocessing-market-219094994.html Early buyers will receive 10% customization on this report. Factors such as high risk of infections associated with improper sterilization of endoscopes, increasing investments, funds, and grants by government bodies across the globe, rising number of hospitals and growing hospital investments in endoscopy instruments, and rising prevalence of diseases that require endoscopy procedures are driving the growth of the Endoscope Reprocessing Market during the forecast period. Automated Endoscope Reprocessors (AERs) to account for the largest share of the Endoscope Reprocessing Market in 2017 On the basis of products, the market is segmented into high-level disinfectants and test strips; detergents and wipes; endoscope tracking systems; endoscope drying, storage, and transport systems; automated endoscope reprocessors (AERs); and other products (brushes and flushing aids, leak testers, hookups, and sponges). Download PDF Brochure: http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownload.asp?id=219094994 The high-level disinfectants and test strips segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global Endoscope Reprocessing Market in 2017. The large share of this segment is attributed to the increasing outbreaks linked to inadequate cleaning or disinfecting during HLD, the effectiveness of high-level disinfectants for quality assurance in decontaminating endoscopes, and rising adherence to endoscope reprocessing guidelines by healthcare centers. Hospitals segment expected to account for the largest share of the market in 2017 On the basis of end user, the Endoscope Reprocessing Market has been segmented into hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and other end users (diagnostic centers, mobile endoscopy facilities, and office endoscopy centers). In 2017, the hospitals segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global Endoscope Reprocessing Market. The ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) segment, on the other hand, is expected to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period. The high growth in this segment can be attributed to the increase in the number of endoscopic procedures performed in ASCs, and rising preference of ASCs over hospitals. Talk To Our Research Analysts: http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/speaktoanalyst.asp?id=219094994 North America dominated the market in 2017 North America accounted for the largest share of the Endoscope Reprocessing Market in 2017, followed by Europe. In the US, the Endoscope Reprocessing Market is driven by the favorable reimbursement scenario, rising incidence of cancer, increasing investments by hospitals to purchase new endoscopic equipment, and increasing incidence of endoscope-related infections. In Canada, the growth of the Endoscope Reprocessing Market is driven by the availability of physician bonuses, and implementation of a new funding model for Canadian hospitals. The various players in the Endoscope Reprocessing Market include Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) (US), Cantel Medical (US), Laboratories Anios (France), Olympus (Japan), Wassenburg Medical (The Netherlands), Custom Ultrasonics (US), STERIS (US), Steelco (Italy), Getinge (Sweden), ENDO-TECHNIK (Germany), BES Decon (UK), ARC Healthcare Solutions (Canada), and Metrex Research (US) among others. Browse Related Reports: Medical Device Cleaning Market by Process (Presoak, Manual Cleaning, Automatic Cleaning, Disinfection) Type (Enzymatic & Non-enzymatic Detergent) Application (Surgical Instruments, Endoscope, Ultrasound Probe) - Global Forecast to 2022 http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/medical-device-cleaning-market-39633818.html Infection Control Market by Disinfection Products (Disinfectant, Disinfectors, Endoscope Reprocessors, Wipes, Face Masks), Sterilization Products (Steam Sterilization, Ethylene Oxide, VHP, E-beam, Contract Services), End User (Hospitals, Lifescience) - Global Forecast to 2021 http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/infection-control-market-1084.html About MarketsandMarkets': MarketsandMarkets' provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 5000 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets' for their painpoints around revenues decisions. Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets' are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model - GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets' now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets' is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve. MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "RT" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets. Contact: Mr. Rohan MarketsandMarkets' INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit MarketsandMarkets' Blog@ http://mnmblog.org/market-research/healthcare/medical-devices Connect with us on LinkedIn @http://www.linkedin.com/company/marketsandmarkets MOUNTAIN VIEW (dpa-AFX) - Google unveiled the Advanced Protection Program, which safeguards the personal Google Accounts of those most at risk of targeted attacks-like journalists, business leaders, and political campaign teams. To provide the strongest defense against phishing, Advanced Protection goes beyond traditional 2-Step Verification. The Users will need to sign into their account with a password and a physical Security Key. Other authentication factors, like codes sent via SMS or the Google Authenticator app, will no longer work. Advanced Protection will automatically limit third-party apps from accessing your most sensitive data - your emails and your Drive files. Third-party apps that want access to Gmail or Drive will no longer have permission. For secure access, the users will need to use the Gmail app or Inbox by Gmail. The users will only be able to use the Chrome browser to access signed-in services like Gmail or Photos. The Google noted that Apple Mail, Contacts, and Calendar apps do not currently support Security Keys and will not be able to access Google data. Instead, the users can use the Gmail, Inbox, or Google calendar apps on iOS. Advanced Protection adds extra steps to verify your identity. If the users ever lose access to their account and both of your Security Keys, these added verification requirements will take a few days to restore access to their account. 'The Advanced Protection Program will proactively add new security features to stay a step ahead of hackers. We'll let you know when new features are added,' Google said. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Regulatory News: After opening its first point of sale in Denmark in March, Areas has reinforced its positions in Copenhagen Airport (CPH) which was twice voted Best Airport in the World for its catering services.1 Areas, the international travel catering brand of Elior Group (Paris:ELIOR), has just carried off the contract to manage two new catering points of sale, a 42 RAW restaurant and a Bar Jacobsen that offer innovative culinary experiences to the 26 million travelers who pass through CPH every year. On the back of the success of the RETREAT banner, a catering concept adapted by Areas to meet the requirements of the airport environment, Copenhagen Airport has called on Areas to come up with two new catering concepts for travelers on the move. The opening of the 42 RAW restaurant and Bar Jacobsen catering outlets underscore Areas' ability to discover and attract brands whose offerings are in line with the latest culinary trends in travel hubs. Fresh food served in its most natural state With 3 points of sale already established in Copenhagen, 42 RAW will be opening its first franchise with Areas at CPH before the end of October 2017. 42 RAW is a fast food catering brand that is based on the concept of serving food in its natural state and which offers a selection of salads, sandwiches and fresh fruit juices. All meals are gluten-free, vegan, and based on fresh fruit and raw veggies and nothing is cooked at temperatures above 42 C so as to satisfy contemporary consumer tastes for healthy and natural food. A long-standing Danish catering brand The Bar Jacobsen was specially designed by Areas, in collaboration with the Carlsberg brewery founded in 1847 by J.C. Jacobsen. The traditional brasserie menu comprising burgers, fish chips, salads, sandwiches and platters, washed down with a Carlsberg beer, offers a selection of reference dishes to travelers looking for a taste of authenticity, as well as those curious of the Danish brand. The CPH Bar Jacobsen will open in November 2017. "We are proud to welcome 42 RAW and Bar Jacobsen. Passengers travelling through the airport, often request authentic products, as well as natural, healthy and nutritious food, to grab on the go or sit and enjoy in peace and quiet. 42 RAW and Bar Jacobsen meet this demand in a unique and sustainable way, and they are one of those local heroes, that strengthen that special Copenhagen-ambience in the airport" says Lise Ryevad, Director, Airport Sales, Copenhagen Airport. Alexandre de Palmas, CEO of Areas in France and Northern Europe, said: "By drawing on its expertise in travel catering, Areas has developed a range of innovative culinary experiences to suit the tastes of all types of travelers: first-time visitors to Denmark, outgoing Danish passengers and travelers passing through. Copenhagen Airport has demonstrated its confidence in our company by giving us free rein in our choice of catering venues. These two new brands, together with RETREAT, underscore Areas' ability to provide our guests with a traditional culinary experience that enables them to discover a variety of gastronomic specialities and the Danish way of life." About Areas Areas is one of the global leaders in the travel catering and retail industry, generating 1.668 billion in revenue in 2016. A global brand of Elior Group, Areas welcomes 330 million customers each year in 2,000 restaurants and points of sale in 13 countries, throughout Europe as well as in the USA, Mexico and Chile. As the caterer of choice in the travel and leisure markets, focusing on quality for 45 years, Areas is present in transportation hubs large and small across the world (airports, train stations, motorway service plazas), as well as in exhibition centers and leisure parks. Building upon a culture of operational excellence, Areas draws on its in-depth understanding of travelers' needs and the most extensive range of catering concepts on the market to offer the perfect blend of ingredients for each of its 900,000 daily customers to savor. For further information: http://www.areas.com Areas on Twitter @Areas @Areas_FR / @Areas_ES About Elior Group Founded in 1991, Elior Group has grown into one of the world's leading operators in the catering and support services industry,and is now a benchmark player in the business industry, education, healthcare, and travel markets. Now operating in 15 countries, the Group generated 5,896 million in revenue through 23,000 restaurants and points of sale in FY 2015-2016. Our 120,000 employees serve 4.4 million customers on a daily basis, taking genuine care of each and every one by providing personalized catering and service solutions to ensure an innovative customer experience. We place particular importance on corporate social responsibility and have been a member of the United Nations Global Compact since 2004. The professional excellence of our teams, as well as their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation and to providing best in-class service is embodied in our corporate motto: "Time savored". For further information please visit our website: http://www.eliorgroup.com or follow us on Twitter: @Elior_Group 1 The 2014 and 2016 Airport Food Beverage Conference Awards View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006132/en/ Contacts: Elior Group Press contacts Anne-Isabelle Gros, 01 1 71 06 70 58 anne-isabelle.gros@eliorgroup.com or Anne-Laure Sanguinetti, +33 (0)1 71 06 70 57 anne-laure.sanguinetti@eliorgroup.com or Investors contact Marie de Scorbiac, +33 (0) 1 71 06 70 13 marie.descorbiac@eliorgroup.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that Congressman Tom Marino, R-Penn., has withdrawn from consideration to serve as the nation's next drug czar. 'Rep. Tom Marino has informed me that he is withdrawing his name from consideration as drug czar. Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman!' Trump said in a post on Twitter. Marino has recently come under pressure after a report from CBS's '60 Minutes' and the Washington Post said he was the chief advocate for a law that made it virtually impossible for the DEA to freeze suspicious narcotics shipments from drug distributors. The report noted political action committees representing the pharmaceutical industry contributed nearly $100,000 to Marino. The White House announced Trump's nomination of Marino as Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy last month, highlighting his experience as U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Senate Joe Manchin, D-W.V., who told CNN that Marino would become drug czar 'over my dead body,' thanked Trump following the news of the Congressman's withdrawal. '@realDonaldTrump - thanks for recognizing we need a drug czar who has seen the devastating effects of the problem,' Manchin said on Twitter. Trump acknowledged the report about Marino during a press conference with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ken., on Monday. While noting that Marino was an early supporter of his and a 'great guy,' Trump said he was going to take a serious look into the report. Trump, who has promised to declare the opioid crisis a national emergency, said he was likely to make a major announcement about the problem next week. 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. Median Technologies will showcase its iBiopsy platform for liver diseases at booth #241 The Imaging Phenomics Company is now a registered trademark of Median Technologies Regulatory News: Median Technologies (Paris:ALMDT), the Imaging Phenomics Company, announced today that it will participate in The Liver Meeting, the annual meeting of the Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) October 20-24 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington DC, USA. The industry exhibition will be opened from Oct 21st to Oct. 23rd. The company's scientific and business team will demonstrate Median's imaging phenomics platform iBiopsy at booth #241. iBiopsy is Median's investigational platform designed to acquire, index, and analyze imaging phenomics, decoding disease biomarkers from standard medical images. iBiopsy is at the core of precision and predictive medicine, providing insights into the development of novel therapies and individualized treatment strategies. The first application of iBiopsy is for the assessment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), a liver disease which is dramatically increasing in prevalence in all parts of the world. iBiopsy is also the backbone of Median's innovative development efforts and combines the latest advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data predictive analytics to harness the power of imaging phenomics. Because of its leading role within the field of imaging phenomics, Median Technologies is proud to announce that "The Imaging Phenomics Company" is now a registered trademark of Median Technologies. The Liver Meeting is organized every year by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) and is the premier conference in the science and practice of hepatology, including the latest findings on new drugs, novel treatments, and the results from pilot and multicenter studies. More information about The Liver Meeting is here: https://www.aasld.org/events-professional-development/liver-meeting The Liver Meeting is a registered trademark of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. About Median Technologies: Median Technologies provides innovative imaging solutions and services to advance healthcare for everyone. We leverage the power of Imaging Phenomics to provide insights into novel therapies and treatment strategies. Our unique solutions, LMS for lesion management and iBiopsy for imaging phenotyping, together with our global team of experts, are advancing the development of new drugs and diagnostic tools to monitor disease and assess response to therapy. Median Technologies supports biopharmaceutical sponsors and healthcare professionals around the world to quickly and precisely bring new treatments to patients in need, with an eye on reducing overall care costs. This is how we are helping to create a healthier world. Founded in 2002, based in Sophia-Antipolis, France, with a US subsidiary in Boston, Median has received the label "Innovative company" by the BPI and is listed on Euronext Growth market (ISIN: FR0011049824, ticker: ALMDT). The company is eligible for the PEA-PME SME equity savings plan setup and has received the label Pass French Tech Promotion 2016-2017. Median Technologies has been awarded the 2017 Tech 40 Label and has joined the EnterNext Tech 40 Index. Median is a member of the Bpifrance Excellence Network. For more information: www.mediantechnologies.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005817/en/ Contacts: Median Technologies Fredrik Brag, +33 4 92 90 65 82 CEO fredrik.brag@mediantechnologies.com or Press - ALIZE RP Caroline Carmagnol Wendy Rigal, 33 1 44 54 36 66 median@alizerp.com or Investors - ACTIFIN Ghislaine Gasparetto, +33 1 56 88 11 11 ggasparetto@actifin.fr COPENHAGEN (dpa-AFX) - Flight 666 for HEL departed just after the 13th hour on Friday, October 13, for one last time. Nevertheless, the FinnAir A320 flight from Copenhagen, Denmark, did land safely at HEL - the International Air Transport Association code for Helsinki in Finland - an hour and a half later in partly sunny weather. Friday the 13th is considered an unlucky day in Western superstition and the fear of the number 13 has been given a scientific name - 'triskaidekaphobia.' The number 666 is called the 'number of the Beast' and is popularly associated with the devil from Christianity. A combination of the two numbers is dreaded by the superstitious. But not for Finnair, whose Flight AY666 from Copenhagen to Helsinki is a regularly scheduled flight. FinnAir said in a tweet last Friday, 'Today was the last time Finnair AY666 flied on Friday the 13th. We have 15 AY666 flights left before our flight number change on October 29th.' The airline noted that in eleven years, it has flown AY666 to HEL 21 times on Friday the 13th. FinnAir added that it was retiring the flight number 666 as the airline is growing and needed more flight numbers. Therefore, AY666 from Copenhagen to Helsinki will change to AY954. However, the airline noted that it still has a flight from SIN, the code for Singapore's Airport, to HEL. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de Launches Dropbox Showcase allowing users to share content professionally and measure client engagement Brings industry's first cross-platform on-demand storage solution, Smart Sync, to individual users Dropbox today launched Dropbox Professional, a new offering that introduces business-grade tools to help individual users store, share, and track work from a single, secure place. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006383/en/ Owners can add details on the materials in the Showcase at the top of the page. (Graphic: Dropbox) Dropbox Professional is designed to meet the needs of independent workers-a group that's expected to rise to 47.6 million by 2022[1]. The new offering brings together the most popular storage, sharing, and support solutions from Dropbox with new ways to present work to help individuals showcase their creativity in the best light. "Work is becoming more fluid as the scope of projects that individuals can take on expands," said Todd Jackson, Head of Product, Dropbox. "In this new world, it's critical to deliver a phenomenal first impression, every time. Dropbox Professional gives independent workers new ways to organize their workflow and stand out from the crowd by helping them share their work in a customized way that's richer than email." Sharing tools to help users present work in the best light Dropbox Professional offers powerful productivity and presentation tools for individual business users. This includes Dropbox Showcase,a new feature that's available for the first time today. The feature brings together everything business professionals need to connect with their clients, and allows them to share content, track client engagement, and maximize the impact of their work. Dropbox Showcase makes it easy for users to pull their Dropbox content onto a single branded page with visual previews, customized layouts, and informative captions. And because these files are synced with Dropbox, they remain up-to-date even if there are changes after the showcase is shared with a client-that just doesn't happen with email attachments. In addition, it lets users track who views, downloads, or comments on their files so they can measure the impact of their work. Architects, designers, sales people and other professionals who work with large files can now take their ideas from concept to presentation, while keeping everything and everyone in sync. In addition to Showcase, Dropbox Professional has advanced sharing capabilities, including the ability to set sharing passwords, create expiring links, and access detailed viewer history. Professional-grade features for work Dropbox Professional also includes Dropbox Smart Sync, one of the company's most requested features, which was launched for teams in January as the first cross-platform on-demand sync solution. With Smart Sync, every file and folder a user has stored in Dropbox is visible and accessible right from their desktop on Mac and Windows, without filling up their hard drive. Online-only files can be accessed with a simple click to sync on-demand. Available today for $199 per year, Dropbox Professional also includes 1 TB of space, as well as: Deeper, more intelligent search across file names, extensions, content, Dropbox Paper docs, and files scanned with optical character recognition using the Dropbox Doc scanner across file names, extensions, content, Dropbox Paper docs, and files scanned with optical character recognition using the Dropbox Doc scanner Data protection and security , such as 120 day version history, mobile offline folders, remote-wipe capabilities and two-step verification as well as state-of-the-art storage and encryption technology , such as 120 day version history, mobile offline folders, remote-wipe capabilities and two-step verification as well as state-of-the-art storage and encryption technology Priority chat support, entitling users to contact Dropbox from 9:00am-1:00am UTC, Mon-Fri to chat with a trained product expert In addition, Dropbox Business Advanced users and above can access Dropbox Showcase via the Dropbox early access program. Smart Sync is available to all Dropbox Business users in early access. Additional resources Read about customer feedback on today's news here Read more about Dropbox Showcase here Find additional resources on today's announcement Follow Dropbox on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn Read more about how Dropbox Business is helping companies embrace collaboration Dropbox was named as a Leader in Gartner's July 2017 Magic Quadrant for Content Collaboration Platforms[2] About Dropbox Dropbox keeps more than 500 million registered users on the same page with easy-to-use collaboration tools. From the smallest business to the largest enterprise, we make teamwork better. For more information, please visit dropbox.com/news. [1] MBO Partners, The State of Independence in America, June 13, 2017, http://bit.ly/2fIu3Oh [2] Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consists of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006383/en/ Contacts: Dropbox U.S. contact: Nick Smith, 415-416-0400 nsmith@dropbox.com or EMEA contact: Georgina Heaume, +44 (0)7833 493612 gheaume@dropbox.com NEW YORK, NY -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Light Reading (www.lightreading.com) is pleased to announce that Fahim Sabir, Director of Architecture and Development at Colt on Demand, is the featured service provider keynote speaker at the inaugural Automation & the New Carrier Network event (https://tmt.knect365.com/automation-the-new-carrier-network/) in London on November 2 at 8 Northumberland Avenue. Sabir will present from 9:30 - 9:50 AM on November 2 at the event and also sit on the panel session, "Modeling Automation - Is One Common Approach Required?" At Colt on Demand, Sabir is responsible for the delivery of next-generation connectivity service platforms, specializing in SDN and NFV technologies. He is passionate about driving industry initiatives and is a leader in Colt's work with industry partners and bodies to standardize on key elements to enable easier integration. Fahim has almost two decades' experience in telecoms, managed IT and network services and cloud computing, focusing on the architecture, development and operation of complex platforms, with a keen interest in orchestration, automation and interoperability. Other confirmed event speakers include: Oliver Cantor, Business Network & Security Solutions, Verizon David Hughes, Vice President, IP Engineering, PCCW Global Mervyn Kelly, EMEA Marketing Director, Ciena Wim Gerrits, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, NetYCE Dr. Jay Perrett, Chief Technology Officer & Founder, Aria Networks Automation & the New Carrier Network is a half-day event that brokers a conversation about what the industry's next steps should be. Industry leaders will discuss the state of automation, NFV and SDN, and stimulate a dialogue about how to fit the pieces together and map them to sustainable business cases. The event is FREE for all attendees. To register, visit here. To learn more about the event and to view the agenda, visit here. Automation & the New Carrier Network is sponsored by gold sponsors Aria Networks, Ciena and NetYCE. For sponsorship opportunities, contact sales@lightreading.com. Follow Light Reading on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube for all the latest news. About Light Reading Light Reading (www.lightreading.com) combines its research-led online communities and targeted events portfolio to help those in the global communications industry make informed decisions. Lightreading.com is the ultimate source for telecom analysis for more than 400,000 subscribers each month, leading the media sector in terms of traffic, content and reputation. Light Reading produces targeted communications events and focused one-day and two-day conferences each year for cable, mobile and wireline executives. Light Reading Erin Cardinal 646-618-8854 cardinal@lightreading.com SolarNow and fellow investors SunFunder, Oikocredit and ResponsAbility Investments have announced a $6 million receivables financing facility for the installation of off-grid solar systems in the African nation of Uganda.Having been constructed as a bankruptcy-remote special purpose vehicle, thanks to the facility, a larger portion of the Ugandan population will soon have access to off-grid electricity through the installation of these solar home systems. This facility is the second of SolarNow's structured asset finance instruments, with this particular one known as SAFI. SAFI has been built as a bankruptcy-remote special purpose vehicle for solar companies installing systems throughout the country through a pay-as-you-go system, and solar leasing models in developing countries. This allows them to expand their reach and give access to energy to a much larger portion of the Ugandan population. With SunFunder leading the ... Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. New vector core facility will be located in San Sebastian, Spain Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio) announced today the formation of Viralgen, a gene therapy joint venture with Columbus Venture Partners. The Viralgen Vector Core will use AskBio's technology for the production of double strand adeno-associated virus (AAV). Viralgen (www.viralgenvc.com) will be located in the Gipuzkoa Science and Technology Park in San Sebastian, Spain and will be the only facility in Europe with access to the most robust manufacturing platform. Viralgen is established with direct investments from AskBio and Columbus Venture Partners and a significant commitment from the Basque Government. "This is a great opportunity to establish unique gene manufacturing capabilities in Europe," said Sheila Mikhail, President and CEO of AskBio. "Our partnership with Columbus and the support of the Basque government will hopefully attract significant talent to the region and have immediate impact on the gene therapy market in Europe and the rest of the world." AskBio shall transfer Viralgen more than ten years of AskBio's manufacturing experience, along with its cell line and process. Viralgen will then have the ability to manufacture GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) batches of viral vectors for the global market. The Viralgen manufacturing plant at full capacity will create about 50 highly qualified jobs for the local region. "We are excited about the exclusive viral vector capabilities this partnership will create," said Javier Garcia Cogorro, Managing Partner of Columbus Venture Partners. "Viralgen success will be based on three areas: outstanding technology, quality of the location to attract talent, and commitment from the Basque Country Government." About AskBio Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio) is a privately-held, gene therapy platform company incorporated in 2003 and based in Chapel Hill, NC adjacent to the Research Triangle Park area. AskBio owns and operates a cell line manufacturing process and an extensive capsid library and has generated hundreds of proprietary third generation gene vectors. AskBio maintains an expansive portfolios of curative gene therapy technology that has been the basis of several AskBio portfolio companies including NanoCor Therapeutics (partnered with Medtronic to develop treatments for heart failure), Chatham Therapeutics (sold to Baxter to develop hemophilia treatments) and Bamboo Therapeutics (sold to Pfizer to develop cures for rare neuromuscular diseases and muscular dystrophy). More information is available at www.askbio.com. About Columbus Venture Partners Columbus Venture Partners is a Spanish investment Management Company with an investment strategy focused on the early-stage and high growth opportunities of biotechnology, medical technology, pharmaceuticals and healthcare industries in Spain. Its team of professionals combines a solid scientific, medical and business knowledge with an extensive experience in the establishment and investment of companies to accelerate merchandising. The Columbus investment team has more than 75 years of professional experience with venture capital investments in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and invests through the COLUMBUS INNVIERTE Life Science Fund, FCR. More information is available at www.columbusvp.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006476/en/ Contacts: AskBio Eleanor Maillie, 978-879-9244 info@askbio.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 17, 2017) - Bullman Minerals Inc. (TSXV: BUL) (the "Company") announces that subject to receipt of acceptance from the TSX Venture Exchange, it has adopted a fixed, less than 10% stock option plan (the "Fixed Plan"), to take the place of its current 10% Rolling Stock Option Plan. Options may be granted under the Fixed Plan for a period of up to ten years at a price not less than the "discounted market price" as defined by Exchange policies prevailing on the day the option is granted, or such other prices as may be required or permitted by the Exchange. Under the Fixed Plan, a total of 9,000,000 common shares are reserved for issuance (being 7% of the Company's current 128,517,642 issued share capital), 2,920,000 of which are outstanding options previously granted that were rolled into the Fixed Plan, leaving a balance of 6,080,000 available for granting. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD SIGNED: "Peter Yue Peter Yue, CEO and President Contact: Peter Yue (604) 336-8619 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, and the TSX Venture Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the transactions herein SEATTLE (dpa-AFX) - New Jersey is pitching for Newark as online-retailing giant Amazon.com Inc.'s second headquarters. Amazon will receive $5 billion in tax incentives from New Jersey over the next 10 years and upon the creation of 50,000 jobs, New Jersey Governor Christie said. In addition, Newark is offering a property-tax abatement worth $1 billion and another $1 billion that Amazon's new Newark workers would gain over 20 years from the city waiving its local wage tax. 'Let any state go and try to beat that package along with what we have offered here in Newark,' Christie said. In September, Amazon announced its plans to open a second headquarters in North America. The company sought proposals from cities around the country. The online retail giant has promised to spend over $5 billion in construction and operation of 'Amazon HQ2.' Founder and CEO Jeff Bezos had said, 'We expect HQ2 to be a full equal to our Seattle headquarters. Amazon HQ2 will bring billions of dollars in up-front and ongoing investments, and tens of thousands of high-paying jobs. We're excited to find a second home.' 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. IRW-PRESS: International Lithium Corp.: International Lithium informiert uber aktuelle Explorationsstrategie fur das Lithiumprojekt Mavis in Ontario (Kanada) International Lithium informiert uber aktuelle Explorationsstrategie fur das Lithiumprojekt Mavis in Ontario (Kanada) Vancouver, B.C. 17. Oktober 2017: International Lithium Corp. (das Unternehmen oder ILC) (TSX VENTURE: ILC) freut sich, zusammen mit dem strategischen Partner Pioneer Resources Limited (Pioneer) (ASX: PIO) und mit Bezug auf die Pressemeldung des Unternehmens vom 11. April 2017 ein Update hinsichtlich des Lithiumprojekts Mavis Lake in Ontario (Kanada) bereitzustellen. Die Bohrungen im Lithiumprojekt Mavis Lake (Mavis), die im Februar 2017 unter der Leitung von Pioneer, dem strategischen Partner des Unternehmens, absolviert wurden, lieferten mehrere wichtige Abschnitte im Zielgebiet Pegmatit 6 (Abbildung 1). Wichtigste Abschnitte aus dem Zielgebiet Pegmatit 6:* - 1,47 % Lithiumoxid (Li2O) uber 17,90 Meter* ab einer Tiefe von 80,00 Metern in Bohrloch MF17-39; - 1,70 % Li2O uber 26,30 Meter ab einer Tiefe von 111,9 m in Bohrloch MF17-49, einschlielich einer Zone mit einem Gehalt von 2,97 % Li2O uber 7,70 m; und - 1,45 % Li2O uber eine Strecke von 16,55 Meter ab einer Tiefe von 74,55 Metern und 1,40 % Li2O uber eine Strecke von 23,10 Meter ab einer Tiefe von 122,00 Metern in Bohrloch MF17-50. * Alle gemeldeten Machtigkeiten sind Bohrkernmachtigkeiten und wurden nicht in wahre Machtigkeiten umgerechnet Zielgebiet Pegmatit 6 Wie zuvor berichtet wurde, wurden im Rahmen der Bohrkampagne zur Weiterverfolgung der Mineralisierung, die in den fruheren Bohrlochern MF-11-12 und MF-12-24 festgestellt wurde (siehe die Pressemitteilungen des Unternehmens vom 12. Januar 2012 und vom 19. Februar 2013) vier Bohrlocher gebohrt. In jedem der neuen Bohrlocher wurden spodumenhaltige Pegmatite verschiedener Machtigkeit durchteuft (Tabelle 1). In den Bohrlochern MF17-49 und MF17-50 wurden Zonen mit mineralisiertem Pegmatit in groeren Tiefen als bisher durchteuft, die eine Neuentdeckung auf dem Mavis Projekt darstellen. Bohrloch MF17-49 ergab 1,70 % Li2O uber eine Strecke von 26,30 Meter ab einer Tiefe von 111,9 Metern, einschlielich 2,97 % Li2O uber eine Strecke von 7,70 Meter, wobei eine der Proben einen Gehalt von 4,20 % Li2O uber eine Strecke von 1,15 Meter aufwies. Bisher wurde mit den Bohrungen im Zielgebiet Pegmatit 6 eine horizontale Streichlange von 60 Metern erkundet, und zwar neigungsabwarts bis in eine maximale Tiefe von 145 Metern unterhalb der Oberflache. http://www.irw-press.at/prcom/images/messages/2017/41148/ILC 2017-10-XX NR Mavis (3)_DEPRcom.001.jpeg Abbildung 1: Generalisierte Lage der Bohrlocher von 2017 im Verhaltnis zu den bekannten Pegmatitvorkommen im Lithiumprojekt Mavis. Tabelle 1: Ausgewahlte Untersuchungsergebnisse aus dem Zielgebiet Pegmatit 6. Zielgebiet PEG006 Bohrloch von bis: *MachtigkeLi2O Anmerkungen it (m) (m) (m) (Gew. - %) MF17-39 80,00 97,90 17,90 1,47 MF17-40 80,05 92,90 12,85 1,16 MF17-49 49,05 53,20 4,15 2,50 und 78,05 87,30 9,25 1,34 und 111,90 138,20 26,30 1,70 Umfasst 2,5 m vulkanisches Muttergestein einschlie122,95 138,20 15,25 2,05 lich einschlie130,50 138,20 7,70 2,97 lich MF17-50 46,45 52,55 6,10 2,15 und 74,55 91,10 16,55 1,45 Umfasst 1,55 m vulkanisches Muttergestein einschlie75,55 80,90 5,35 2,33 lich und 122,00 145,10 23,10 1,40 Umfasst 6,7 m mit bis zu 1,20 % Li 2O im Bereich des vulkanischen Muttergesteins *Alle gemeldeten Machtigkeiten sind Bohrkernmachtigkeiten und wurden nicht in wahre Machtigkeiten umgerechnet. Die beiden Unternehmen berichten nun, dass eine Crew zur Weiterverfolgung und der Ermittlung adaquater Standorte fur die nachste Bohrrunde im Zielgebiet Pegmatit 6 in das Projekt entsendet wird. Die neuen tieferliegenden Entdeckungen im Gebiet Pegmatit 6 sind Anlass fur unseren Partner Pioneer Resources das Potenzial dieses Zielgebiets im Rahmen weiterer Bohrkampagnen noch genauer zu untersuchen, sagte Kirill Klip, Executive Chairman von ILC. Unser Konzept des Upper Canada Lithium Pool wird deutlich verbessert werden, wenn wir auf den erfolgreichen Entdeckungen hier bei Mavis Lake aufbauen. Unsere Strategie, bei der wir auf strategische Partnerschaften fur die Weiterentwicklung von Projekten setzen, um letztlich die Lithiumversorgung fur die fortschreitende Elektrifizierung unserer Transport- und Energiespeicherungsanwendungen sicherzustellen, geht auf. Afzaal Pirzada, Berater des Unternehmens, hat die wissenschaftlichen und technischen Informationen in dieser Pressemeldung in seiner Eigenschaft als qualifizierter Sachverstandiger im Sinne der National Instrument 43-101-Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators gepruft und freigegeben. Uber Pioneer Resources Limited Pioneer ist mit der weltweiten Exploration wichtiger, stark nachgefragter Rohstoffe in aussichtsreichen geologischen Gebieten befasst und konzentriert sich dabei auf Regionen mit geringem geopolitischem Risiko und mit ausgebauter Infrastruktur. Das Projekt-Portfolio umfasst Lithiumlagerstatten in Kanada und in Bergbaurevieren von Westaustralien sowie strategisch gunstig gelegene Gold- und Nickelprojekte in Westaustralien. Neben den Lithiumprojekten Mavis Lake und Raleigh entwickelt Pioneer das zu 100 % unternehmenseigene Lithium-Caesium-Tantal-Projekt Pioneer Dome. Fur das Board of Directors: Kirill Klip Executive Chairman International Lithium Corp. 1111 Melville Street, Suite 1100 Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 3V6, Kanada T: 604-700-8912 info@internationallithium.com www.internationallithium.com Weitere Informationen uber diese Pressemitteilung erhalten Sie unter +1.604 700-8912. Die TSX Venture Exchange und deren Regulierungsorgane (in den Statuten der TSX Venture Exchange als Regulation Services Provider bezeichnet) ubernehmen keinerlei Verantwortung fur die Angemessenheit oder Genauigkeit dieser Meldung. Vorsorglicher Hinweis zu zukunftsgerichteten Informationen Abgesehen von Aussagen bezuglich historischer Tatsachen enthalt diese Pressemitteilung auch bestimmte zukunftsgerichtete Informationen gema den anwendbaren Wertpapiergesetzen. 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Sollte eines oder mehrere dieser Risiken, Ungewissheiten oder anderer Faktoren jedoch Realitat werden oder sollten sich Annahmen, die diesen zugrunde liegen, als inkorrekt erweisen, konnten sich die tatsachlichen Ergebnisse erheblich von jenen unterscheiden, die in zukunftsgerichteten Informationen beschrieben wurden. Die hierin angegebenen zukunftsgerichteten Informationen und alle weiteren schriftlichen und mundlichen zukunftsgerichteten Informationen basieren auf Schatzungen und Meinungen des Managements zum Zeitpunkt ihrer Veroffentlichung und sind in ihrer Gesamtheit in diesem vorsorglichen Hinweis ausdrucklich qualifiziert. Sofern keine entsprechende gesetzliche Verpflichtung besteht, wird das Unternehmen keine zukunftsgerichteten Informationen aktualisieren, falls sich die Umstande oder die Schatzungen und Meinungen des Managements andern sollten. Die Ausgangssprache (in der Regel Englisch), in der der Originaltext veroffentlicht wird, ist die offizielle, autorisierte und rechtsgultige Version. Diese Ubersetzung wird zur besseren Verstandigung mitgeliefert. Die deutschsprachige Fassung kann gekurzt oder zusammengefasst sein. Es wird keine Verantwortung oder Haftung: fur den Inhalt, fur die Richtigkeit, der Angemessenheit oder der Genauigkeit dieser Ubersetzung ubernommen. Aus Sicht des Ubersetzers stellt die Meldung keine Kauf- oder Verkaufsempfehlung dar! Bitte beachten Sie die englische Originalmeldung auf www.sedar.com, www.sec.gov, www.asx.com.au/ oder auf der Firmenwebsite! Die englische Originalmeldung finden Sie unter folgendem Link: http://www.irw-press.at/press_html.aspx?messageID=41148 Die ubersetzte Meldung finden Sie unter folgendem Link: http://www.irw-press.at/press_html.aspx?messageID=41148&tr=1 NEWSLETTER REGISTRIERUNG: Aktuelle Pressemeldungen dieses Unternehmens direkt in Ihr Postfach: http://www.irw-press.com/alert_subscription.php?lang=de&isin=CA45982 01065 Mitteilung ubermittelt durch IRW-Press.com. Fur den Inhalt ist der Aussender verantwortlich. Kostenloser Abdruck mit Quellenangabe erlaubt. ISIN CA4598201065 AXC0101 2017-10-18/10:46 WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Aides to former President Barack Obama have launched harsh attacks on President Donald Trump after the president claimed that his predecessor did not call the families of fallen U.S. service members. Trump suggested during a press conference with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ken., on Monday that he has does more than previous presidents to reach out to the families of members of the military that were killed in action. 'The traditional way -- if you look at President Obama and other Presidents, most of them didn't make calls, a lot of them didn't make calls,' Trump said. 'I like to call when it's appropriate, when I think I'm able to do it,' he added. 'They have made the ultimate sacrifice.' Obama's deputy chief of staff of operations Alyssa Mastromonaco struck back at Trump in a post on Twitter, accusing the president of lying. 'That's a f---ing lie. to say president obama (or past presidents) didn't call the family members of soldiers KIA - he's a deranged animal,' Mastromonaco tweeted. Ben Rhodes, Obama's deputy national security adviser, also accused Trump of lying and pointed to his attack on a 'Gold Star family' that had been critical of him. 'This is an outrageous and disrespectful lie even by Trump standards. Also: Obama never attacked a Gold Star family,' Rhodes tweeted. Mastromonaco and Rhodes both retweeted a post from former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Martin Dempsey claiming Obama and former President George W. Bush both cared deeply about the families of the fallen. 'POTUS 43 & 44 and first ladies cared deeply, worked tirelessly for the serving, the fallen, and their families. Not politics. Sacred Trust,' Dempsey said. Trump clarified later in the press conference that he did not know if Obama called the families but claimed he was told the former president did not call often. 'President Obama I think probably did sometimes, and maybe sometimes he didn't. I don't know,' Trump said. 'That's what I was told. All I can do is ask my generals.' Trump reiterated in an interview with Fox News Radio on Tuesday that he does not know Obama's policy but suggested reporters ask White House Chief of Staff John Kelly if he received a call. An administration official told Fox News that Obama did not call Kelly, whose son Robert died in Afghanistan in 2010. (Photo: Gage Skidmore) Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de IRVINE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 17, 2017 / Khang & Khang LLP (the "Firm") announces a securities class action lawsuit against Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited ("Dr. Reddy's" or the "Company") (NYSE: RDY). Investors who purchased or otherwise acquired shares from June 17, 2015 through August 10, 2017, inclusive (the "Class Period"), are encouraged to contact the Firm before the October 24, 2017 lead plaintiff motion deadline. If you purchased shares of Dr. Reddy's during the Class Period, please contact Joon M. Khang, Esq., of Khang & Khang LLP, 4000 Barranca Parkway, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92604, by telephone at (949) 419-3834 , or by e-mail at joon@khanglaw.com. There has been no class certification in this case yet, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. You may choose to take no action and remain a passive class member as well. The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Dr. Reddy's made false and/or misleading statements, and/or failed to disclose, that it lacked an effective corporate quality system; and thus, its public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On August 10, 2017, the Company disclosed that the Regulatory of Germany (Regierung von Oberbayern) did not renew the good manufacturing practices compliance certificate of a formulations manufacturing unit of its German subsidiary Betapharm Arzneimittel, located in Hyderabad, India, following a recent inspection of the plant. Following this news, shares of Dr. Reddy's lowered in value materially, which caused investors harm according to the Complaint. If you want to learn more about this lawsuit, or if you have questions concerning this notice or your rights, please contact Joon M. Khang, Esq., a prominent litigator for nearly two decades, by telephone at (949) 419-3834 , or by e-mail at joon@khanglaw.com. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in certain jurisdictions. Contact Joon M. Khang, Esq. Telephone: 949-419-3834 Facsimile: 949-225-4474 joon@khanglaw.com SOURCE: Khang & Khang LLP WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - The Brewer's Association (BA), the Colorado-based craft brewers trade association, has launched a crowd-funding to raise $213 billion to takeover beer behemoth Anheuser-Busch InBev. The campaign called 'Take Craft Back' aims to dissuade Anheuser-Busch InBev from wrongly promoting craft beers that they have acquired. BA also intends to 'to promote and protect America's small and independent craft brewers' through the campaign. Anheuser-Busch InBev has acquired 10 craft brewers in the U.S. since 2011 in an attempt to tap into craft brewing beer market, which is the fastest-growing segment in the industry. 'America's independent craft breweries turned the beer industry upside down. That's why Anheuser-Busch InBev and its Big Beer cronies are buying us up left and right. Taking our independence-and your freedom of choice-away. But we won't be muscled out. We're launching the largest crowdfunding effort in history to turn the beer industry upside down again!' says the website of the campaign Take Craft Back. 'We can take a joke!' AB InBev U.S. communications VP Gemma Hart said in a statement about the Brewers Association campaign. 'While the fake money for this campaign 'piles' up, we will keep focusing our donations on giving back to communities across our country.' 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. BOSTON, MA -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- InvestmentNews today named Sensible Financial Planning and Management, LLC a winner of the 2017 Best Practices Awards, an important initiative that recognizes the top-performing and most innovative firms in the financial advice industry. The winners of the InvestmentNews Best Practices Awards were identified through their participation in the 2017 Adviser Compensation & Staffing and the 2017 Adviser Technology Study. The winning firms were officially recognized today at InvestmentNews' Best Practices Award and Workshop, which was hosted at The Colonnade Hotel in Boston. "The Best Practices winners are some of the most strategic and successful firms in the advice business," said Mark Bruno, associate publisher at InvestmentNews and head of InvestmentNews Research. "Their leaders have a clear plan and vision for growing their firms and managing elite organizations. Acknowledging their accomplishments and telling their stories will help educate, inform and influence the growth of the overall industry." "As a firm, we value innovation and use the industry's latest tools to provide our clients with expert guidance," said Rick Miller, the founder of Sensible Financial. "Our clients expect a highly-personalized, cutting edge approach to helping them meet all of life's financial milestones." To identify the 2017 Best Practices Award winners, InvestmentNews Research created composite scores that examined several key metrics from its core benchmarking studies - including a firm's rate of growth, profitability and productivity level. The data was obtained from over 700 independent advisory firms that participated in the 2017 Adviser Compensation & Staffing Study and the 2017 Adviser Technology Study. The "Best Practices" were those who ranked among the top-quartile of all participants; in addition, the final firms were selected after qualitative interviews conducted by the InvestmentNews Best Practices Committee. The 2017 Best Practices Award Winners are: Excellence in Technology Asset Management Group, Inc. Balasa Dinverno Foltz LLC, Center for Financial Planning, Inc. Etesian Wealth Advisors Inc. Fierston Financial Group Nvest Financial Group, LLC Sensible Financial Planning and Management, LLC Strategic Wealth Management Group, LLC The Burney Company (Burney Company Investment Management) Excellence in Compensation & Staffing ACG Wealth Accredited Investors Wealth Management CJM Wealth Advisers, Ltd. Dowling & Yahnke Wealth Management EisnerAmper Wealth Management & Corporate Benefits Foster & Motley, Inc. JMG Financial Group, Ltd. Johnson Investment Counsel Private Vista LLC Roof Advisory Group, Inc. Sage Financial Group Wacker Wealth Partners About Sensible Financial Sensible Financial Planning and Management was founded in Waltham, Massachusetts in 2002 to make state-of-the-art, unbiased and personalized financial advice more widely available, especially to people who haven't been comfortable using a financial advisor or who thought they couldn't afford one. The team specializes in providing objective financial planning and investment management with the goal of helping clients grow and protect their assets through all of life's stages. Sensible Financial has offices in Waltham, MA and San Diego, CA. Learn more at SensibleFinancial.com. About InvestmentNews Research InvestmentNews Research, a division of InvestmentNews, provides financial advisers with the industry's most informative practice management studies and benchmarking reports. InvestmentNews' benchmarking studies are a leading source of market intelligence for advisory firms and industry partners, such as custodians, broker-dealers, service providers and professional organizations. In 2009, InvestmentNews acquired two bellwether benchmarking studies from Moss Adams LLP -- the Adviser Compensation and Staffing Study and the Financial Performance Study of Advisory Firms. InvestmentNews has since added a technology study to its benchmarking reports. In addition to the regular benchmarking studies, InvestmentNews Research provides custodians, broker-dealers and RIAs with custom benchmarking reports and white papers that leverage our deep data and industry expertise. Media Contact: Bobbie Carlton Email Contact WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Leaders of the Senate Health Committee revealed Tuesday they have reached an agreement on legislation to provide short-term stability to Obamacare. Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., and ranking member Patty Murray, D-Wash., announced the bipartisan agreement. The proposed bill would reportedly restore the Obamacare subsidies to insurers that President Donald Trump eliminated last week. In exchange for two years of funding for the cost-sharing program, the bill would provide states more flexibility in how their Obamacare markets are run. Asked about the news at a press conference with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, Trump called the deal a short-term solution that will 'get us over this intermediate hump.' 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. Quantzig, a global analytics solutions provider, has announced the completion of their new salesforce analytics study on the financial industry. The client, a renowned financial firm, wanted to understand their sales force's performance and discover new opportunities to reduce the extra time. The financial firm wanted to effectively manage their sales force and prioritize activities and optimize time management. The client also wanted to embrace new technologies to stay ahead in the financial market landscape. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006725/en/ Salesforce Analytics Helps a Leading Financial Services Provider Curtail Additional Costs (Graphic: Business Wire) According to the salesforce analytics experts at Quantzig, "The financial industry has started shifting towards a more resilient and accessible financial system. As a result, leading organizations are relying on salesforce analytics to manage their sales force effectively." To improve savings and investments, organizations are moving towards a resilient and accessible financial system. With the growing demand for a reliable financial system globally, leading financial market players are leveraging salesforce analytics. Salesforce analytics helps in lowering costs and understanding the needs of the consumers. Request a free demo to see how Quantzig's solutions can help you. The solution offered by Quantzig helped the financial service provider to increase transparency into the existing system and enhance sales performance. The client was also able to make more meaning interactions with the customers. The financial industry client was also able to understand customer segments and effectively manage the team over time. This salesforce analytics solution provided benefits that helped the client to: Uncover potential opportunities, better manage forecasts, and understand team performance Improve the performance of the current sales team To know more, request a free proposal This salesforce analytics solution offered predictive insights on: Managing salesforce and bolstering sales performance Benchmarking the sales performance across geographical regions and predicting the sales performance To know more, request a free proposal View the complete salesforce analytics study here: https://www.quantzig.com/content/salesforce-analytics-financial-industry 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/20171017006725/en/ Contacts: Quantzig Anirban Choudhury Marketing Consultant US: +1 630 538 7144 UK: +44 208 629 1455 hello@quantzig.com https://www.quantzig.com/contact-us BALTIMORE, MD -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Algeco/Scotsman Holding S.a r.l. (together with its subsidiaries, "Algeco Scotsman"), the leading global business services provider of modular space, secure portable storage solutions and remote workforce accommodations, today announced that its subsidiary, Algeco Scotsman Global S.a r.l. (the "Issuer"), entered into a notes indenture (the "Indenture") with an affiliate (the "Holder") of its ultimate majority shareholder, TDR Capital LLP, pursuant to which the Issuer issued $72.0 million of 8.5% senior secured notes (the "Notes") to the Holder. The Notes will be due on the earlier of (i) October 15, 2018 and (ii) the date, notified by the Issuer to the Holders, which is no later than the 15th Business Day after closing of the sale by AS Holding or any of its affiliates of all of the capital stock of its North American modular space and portable storage operations ("Williams Scotsman"). The Notes bear interest, payable semi-annually. The Indenture contains covenants and events of default similar to those of the indenture governing the senior secured notes (the "Senior Secured Notes"), entered into by, among others, Algeco Scotsman Global Finance plc and dated as of October 11, 2012. The Indenture also includes a covenant by the Issuer to use commercially reasonable efforts to complete, within 45 calendar days of a request to the Issuer from holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes, (i) the accession of Algeco Scotsman Global Finance plc and the guarantors of the Senior Secured Notes to the Indenture as guarantors, and (ii) the execution of substantially the same security documents (as amended for structure) as entered into for the issuance of the additional Senior Secured Notes on May 24, 2017. Algeco Scotsman will use the proceeds from the Notes for general corporate purposes. The additional liquidity provided by the Notes will enable Algeco Scotsman to continue to pursue organic and inorganic growth opportunities primarily in relation to the improving macro-economic environment in Europe and to support the rebuilding and restoration efforts following the natural disasters in the U.S. The information contained within this announcement is deemed by Algeco Scotsman to constitute inside information for purposes of the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014. Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements This press release and other oral and written statements by representatives of Algeco Scotsman may include forward-looking statements. These statements are identified by words such as "future," "anticipate", "intend,", "plan," "estimate," "believe," "expect," "project," "forecast," "could," "would," "should," "will," "may," and similar expressions of future intent or the negative of such terms. Although any such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs based upon information currently available to management and upon assumptions which management believes to be reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those stated in or implied by these forward-looking statements. A number of factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements, including: the ability to complete planned transactions; the condition of the global capital and credit markets; global economic conditions, including in the industries supported by Algeco Scotsman; changes in demand within key industry end-markets and geographic regions; the competitive environment in which Algeco Scotsman operates; changes in federal, state and local laws and regulations, including in state building codes; changes in raw material and labor costs; ability to engage with manufacturers if existing relationships are discontinued; and ability to retain and recruit key personnel. These factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Algeco Scotsman does not presently know or that Algeco Scotsman currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Algeco Scotsman's expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. Subsequent events and developments will cause these assessments to change. However, while Algeco Scotsman may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Algeco Scotsman specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Algeco Scotsman's assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. No Offer or Solicitation This press release is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or an invitation to purchase any securities in any jurisdiction in connection with the issuance of Notes or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. About Algeco Scotsman Algeco Scotsman is the leading global business services provider focused on modular space, secure portable storage solutions, and remote workforce accommodation management. Headquartered in Baltimore, Algeco Scotsman has operations in 25 countries with a modular fleet of approximately 275,000 units. The company operates as Williams Scotsman and Target Logistics in North America, Algeco in Europe, Elliott in the United Kingdom, Ausco in Australia, Portacom in New Zealand, and Algeco Chengdong in China. Investor Relations Contact: Scott Shaughnessy Vice President, Finance Algeco Scotsman 410-933-5921 Email Contact TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 10/17/17 -- Background On August 4, 2017, the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") published Notice 2017-014 - Industry Guidance - Issuers with Assets or Operations in the U.S. Cannabis Industry (the "CSE Notice"). The purpose of the CSE Notice was to address the continuing uncertainty about obtaining a listing in Canada, and to remind listed companies and applicants that appropriate risk disclosure should include a comprehensive discussion of U.S. federal law and enforcement initiatives, as well as the state and municipal laws pursuant to which an issuer will conduct its business. On October 16, 2017 the Canadian Securities Administrators published CSA Staff Notice 51-352 Issuers with U.S. Marijuana-Related Activities (the "Staff Notice"). The purpose of the Staff Notice is to provide "CSA staff's specific disclosure expectations for issuers that currently have, or are in the process of developing, marijuana-related activities in U.S. states..." Disclosure Expectations The Staff Notice includes a table that outlines, based on the type of industry involvement, the specific disclosure expectations for prospectus filings and other required documents such as the AIF, MD&A and Listing Statements. Furthermore, the disclosure and risks should be evaluated, monitored and reassessed by issuers on an ongoing basis. The CSE is fully supportive of this disclosure-based approach, and provides additional references in this notice to assist issuers in applying the guidance provided in the Staff Notice. Listing Statement The Listing Statement should include the specific disclosure for the type(s) of industry involvement described in the Staff Notice. It should also include a description of specific policies or procedures, if any, the issuer will implement to reassess the risks, and the relevance and adequacy of existing disclosure. The general instructions for the CSE Form 2A Listing Statement provide that "the sequence of questions must not be altered nor should questions be omitted or left unanswered. The answers...must be in narrative form." Using the Form 2A as a template ensures that all disclosure items are addressed, and an investor can more easily determine if any disclosure has been omitted. In addition to the risk disclosure provided in section 17, question 3.3 specifically requires a discussion of "...any trend, commitment, event or uncertainty that is both presently known to management and reasonably expected to have a material effect on the Issuer's business, financial condition or results of operations, providing forward-looking information based on the Issuer's expectations as of the date of the Listing Statement." A Listing Statement for an Issuer that has assets or operations in the U.S. cannabis industry should include detailed disclosure as outlined in the Staff Notice. Ongoing Disclosure CSE Policy 5 Timely Disclosure, Trading Halts and Posting Requirements reminds issuers, in section 2.2, "Listed Issuers are not required to interpret the impact of external political, economic and social developments on their affairs, but if the external development will have or has had a direct effect on their business and affairs that is both material and uncharacteristic of the effect generally experiences as a result of such development by other companies engaged in the same business or industry, Listed Issuers are urged, where practical, to explain the particular impact on them. For example, a change in government policy that affects most companies in a particular industry does not require an announcement, but if it affects only one or a few companies in a material way, an announcement should be made." Notwithstanding the broad implications of a change in U.S. federal policy, the impact to each issuer could be significantly different from others in the industry, depending on specific business activities and jurisdiction of operation. Issuers must consider if a reasonable investor's decision may be affected by information concerning its business and affairs. If a Listed Issuer were to determine that certain developments did not necessitate a news release under the Timely Disclosure requirements, disclosure may still be appropriate in the CSE Form 7 Monthly Progress report. Form 7, question 17 requires the issuer to "Discuss any trends which are likely to impact the Issuer including trends in the Issuer's market(s) or political/regulatory trends." Acquisitions and Transactions A Listed Issuer proposing an acquisition or transaction that will result in the issuer conducting, or holding an interest in an entity conducting cannabis-related activities in the U.S. must include appropriate disclosure with the announcement of the proposed transaction, including discussion of the risks in relation to the proportion of business the acquisition will represent to the issuer. For a transaction that results in a fundamental change pursuant to CSE Policies, additional disclosure will be required in the Listing Statement filed for the fundamental change. Otherwise, the required disclosure should appear in the next Monthly Progress Report, MD&A and Annually Updated Listings Statement or AIF as applicable. Questions Please refer questions about the CSA Staff Notice to any of the CSA contacts listed. Contacts: Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) Listings (416) 367-7340 Listings@thecse.com www.thecse.com Mark Faulkner Vice President Listings & Regulation Mark.Faulkner@thecse.com Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - October 17, 2017) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged mining company Rio Tinto and two former top executives with fraud for inflating the value of coal assets acquired for $3.7 billion and sold a few years later for $50 million. The SEC's complaint, which was filed in federal court in Manhattan, alleges that Rio Tinto, its former CEO Thomas Albanese, and its former CFO Guy Elliott failed to follow accounting standards and company policies to accurately value and record its assets. Instead, as the project began to suffer one setback after another resulting in the rapid decline of the value of the coal assets, they sought to hide or delay disclosure of the nature and extent of the adverse developments from Rio Tinto's Board of Directors, Audit Committee, independent auditors, and investors. "As alleged in our complaint, Rio Tinto's top executives allegedly breached their disclosure obligations and corporate duties by hiding from their board, auditor, and investors the crucial fact that a multi-billion dollar transaction was a failure," said Stephanie Avakian, Co-Director of the SEC's Enforcement Division. "Rio Tinto and its top executives allegedly failed to come clean about an unsuccessful deal that was made under their watch. They tried to save their own careers at the expense of investors by hiding the truth," said Steven Peikin, Co-Director of the SEC's Enforcement Division. Based on the complaint's allegations, Rio Tinto plc, Rio Tinto Limited, Albanese, and Elliott are charged with violating the antifraud, reporting, books and records and internal controls provisions of the federal securities laws. The SEC seeks permanent injunctions, return of allegedly ill-gotten gains plus interest, and civil penalties from all the defendants, and seeks to bar Albanese and Elliott from serving as public company officers or directors. According to the SEC's complaint, in 2011, Rio Tinto acquired coal assets in Mozambique shortly after disclosing huge losses associated with its previous large-scale acquisition of Alcan. Both acquisitions took place under Albanese's leadership. The second acquisition was also unsuccessful as it was based on the incorrect assumption that Rio Tinto could inexpensively mine, transport, and sell large quantities of high-quality coal, chiefly using barges for shipping. The SEC's complaint alleges that the project suffered setbacks almost immediately, as Rio Tinto, Albanese, and Elliott learned that there was less coal and of lower quality than expected, and that Mozambique had rejected its barge application. The complaint alleges that the drop in quantity and quality of coal, coupled with the lack of infrastructure to transport it, significantly eroded the value of the acquisition. The complaint alleges that after already impairing Alcan twice, Rio Tinto, Albanese, and Elliott knew that publicly disclosing its second failure and rapidly declining value would call into question their ability to pursue the core of Rio Tinto's business model to identify and develop long-term, low-cost, and highly-profitable mining assets. Instead, they concealed the adverse developments, allowing Rio Tinto to release misleading financial statements days before a series of U.S. debt offerings. Rio Tinto raised $5.5 billion from U.S. investors, approximately $3 billion of which was raised after May 2012, when executives at Rio Tinto Coal Mozambique had already told Albanese and Elliott that the subsidiary was likely worth negative $680 million. The complaint alleges Albanese then repeated and reinforced the false positive outlook for the project in public statements. The alleged fraud continued until January 2013, when an executive in Rio Tinto's Technology & Innovation Group discovered that the coal assets were being carried at an inflated value on Rio Tinto's financial statements. After an internal review allegedly triggered by the executive's report to Rio Tinto's Chairman, Rio Tinto announced that Albanese had resigned and the company reduced the value of the coal assets by more than $3 billion, or more than 80 percent. After a second reduction, Rio Tinto sold the Mozambique subsidiary for $50 million, billions of dollars below the acquisition price. The SEC's investigation was conducted by D. Mark Cave, Jeffrey Weiss, and George Spanos and supervised by Melissa Hodgman. The SEC's litigation will be conducted by Mr. Cave, Dean Conway, and Gregory Miller, and supervised by Bridget Fitzpatrick. The SEC greatly appreciates the assistance and collaboration of the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority and the Australian Securities & Investments Commission. Kalahari Biltong, a Cambridge, MA-based new meat-based snack brand, closed on a round of equity financing of undisclosed amount. The round was led by AccelFoods, a New York-based venture fund, exclusively focused on investing in innovative packaged food and beverage brands. In conjunction with this round of financing, AccelFoods Frank Zampardi joined Kalahari Biltongs Board of Directors. This round of funding will be used to launch the brand at retail, significantly expand manufacturing, rollout a field marketing program, and launch new flavors. Co-Founded by Tyler Noyes, CEO, Brett Johnston and Robin Ginsburg, Kalahari Biltong is a manufacturer producing in the South African tradition of naturally air drying meat with simple ingredients, creating a cross between dry-aged beef, jerky, and prosciutto. Biltong is air-dried for up to 21 days, resulting in thin, tender slices of beef that are lean, high in protein, sugar-free, and low in sodium. FinSMEs 17/10/2017 New Delhi: India has attracted investment commitments of around USD 10 billion in the food processing sector ahead of the mega 'World Food' event to be held here in November, Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal said today. More investment is likely to be committed by the end of the event, said the Minister of Food Processing. The World Food India event will see participation of 30 countries and over 50 global CEOs, along with CEOs of leading domestic food processing firms and 27 states, she added. "We had kept a target of USD 10 billion investment. I am happy to share, we have already achieved the target. More investment is likely to flow as we still have 2-3 weeks for the event," Badal said at the curtain raiser of the 3-day event from 3 November. She declined to share the name of the companies which have committed to make the investment. "We will give names in the World Food India. I have to take permission from companies which are investing on whether to announce it now or not. They will be announcing during the event," she added. Metro Cash and Carry India Managing Director and Mediratta said the company plans to double the number of stores from 24, by 2020. ITC Ltd Executive Director Nakul Anand, Nestle India Senior Vice President Sanjay Khajuria, Walmart Senir Vice President Rajneesh Kumar, Kellogs India Managing Director Mohit Anand talked about the opportunities that India offers but did not state any investment plans. Foreign investors are excited to work in India, Badal said, adding that "this is because ease of doing business in India is seeming like a reality to people who had to face multiple taxes, multiple rules and regulations across states". Introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST) -- a single nation and single tax -- has actually made India the world market where everyone wants to come and invest, she said. Asserting that India has a market to offer which nobody can afford to miss, the minister said: "We have today a USD 600 billion retail sector, of which 70 per cent is food retail and it will treble by 2020. Expenditure on food will also double next six years. There is huge market." A lot of policy decisions have been taken in the last three years to boost the food processing sector so that food wastage is curbed and farmers' incomes improve, she added. The government is also actively considering a proposal to allow foreign direct investment (FDI) in non-food items, along with food products, under the multi-brand retail policy, she said expressing hope of getting it cleared. Japan, Denmark and Germany are participating as 'partner countries' in the event, while Italy and The Netherlands are the focus nations. Speaking about Japan's participation, its ambassador to India Kenji Hiramatsu said Japanese firms are already present here in areas like instant noodle among others. More companies are looking at the Indian market for investment purpose and over 60 firms will be participating in the forthcoming event, he said. "I hope that the companies coming will have more investment opportunities as you know India and Japan has been enjoying very good bilateral relations," he added. Ambassador of Netherlands to India Alphonsus Stoelinga said the country wants to support India in helping farmers achieve high efficiency in agriculture. Ambassadors of Denmark and Italy as well as celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor were present at the event, also attended by MoS, food processing, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti. New Delhi: The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) of India and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) today signed an investment agreement worth USD 1 billion, the finance ministry said. The government has set up NIIF with the aim to attract investments from both domestic and international sources for infrastructure development in commercially viable projects. As part of the agreement, ADIA will become the first institutional investor in NIIFs Master Fund and a shareholder in the NIIFs investment management company, the statement said. Earlier a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Department of Economic Affairs and the Government of United Arab Emirates (UAE) to mobilise long term investment into NIIF. "The first investment agreement between NIIF Master Fund and a wholly owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has been signed today," the ministry said, adding the investment from ADIA Group would be 1 billion USD. Six domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) -- HDFC Standard Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Asset Management Company Limited, Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited, ICICI Bank Limited, Kotak Mahindra Old Mutual Life Insurance Limited, Axis Bank Limited -- will also be joining the NIIF Master Fund along with ADIA apart from Government of India. Commenting on the development, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said: "This is a significant milestone in operationalisation of NIIF. This agreement paves the way for creating significant economic impact through investment in commercially viable infrastructure development projects." Funds CEO Sujoy Bose said the agreement marks the culmination of an extensive process of collaboration with ADIA to develop an investment structure that is attractive to international investors while remaining closely aligned with the NIIFs objectives. "We are proud to have ADIA as our founding partner and are grateful for its support and contributions to date, and we now look forward to announcing further agreements with other investors," he said. Khadem AlRemeithi, Executive Director of the Real Estate and Infrastructure Department at ADIA, said the NIIF is set to play an important role in facilitating the flow of foreign capital into Indias infrastructure sector. The corpus of the NIIF is proposed to be Rs 40,000 crore (USD 6 billion) wherein the government would invest 49 per cent. NIIF will raise third party capital for the remaining Rs 20,000 crore (USD 3 billion), from long term international investors, such as a sovereign wealth funds, insurance and pension funds, and endowments. The ministry further said that a few investors -- Government of UAE, RUSNANO, QIA, RDIF and Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) have signed MoUs with the NIIF. In addition, the Department of Economic Affairs has signed terms for cooperation on the NIIF with the US Treasury and the UK Treasury. An India-UK Green Growth Equity Fund (GGEF) has been announced in April 2017. The fund shall be set up under the fund of funds vertical of NIIF, and shall have anchor commitments of GBP 120 million each from Government of India (through NIIF) and Government of UK. PTI NKD CS MKJ It was a much-awaited day for the newly-appointed chairman of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Anupam Kher, when he visited the institute on 16 October for the first time since his appointment. The film institutes student body has been protesting against Khers candidature and they even posted an open letter raising concerns about administrative and academic shortcomings of the institute. Amid all the buzz, Kher had a rather interesting welcome as the students reportedly played drums and shouted slogans, reports Mumbai Mirror. Kher chose to come by taxi instead of a car, as he didnt want to carry the burden of whatever" he has achieved after his stint as a student at FTII years ago. I always believe that students move away from their parents and come to such institutes to learn and grow. That is important and that is what we are here for, says Kher on being asked how he plans to bring students back to classes as they are on a strike. As far as joining classes is concerned, we will talk about it on 17 October. I will be conducting a master class with all of them, adds the Saaransh actor, in an interview to Mumbai Mirror. Diverging from questions pertaining to specific issues, Kher maintains his ambivalent stand on the current scenario at FTII. We should start everything on a positive note. It is easy to list out problems and far more difficult to find solutions. I am sure that like their predecessors, these students will also earn name and fame from their work. But if we keep looking at problems, we will never be able to resolve anything. I am an optimist and I have also learnt that listening helps at times. A lot of speculations were doing the rounds after Khers appointment regarding a conflict of interest as he also owns Actor Prepares, a private acting school in Mumbai. Kher refutes the allegations and says, I think its an asset that I have 14 years of experience. I have spent a lot of time on the Mumbai school from an 8x10 room to the level it is at today. But that hardly means Im going to stand here and distribute pamphlets telling students to join my school instead. Veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha, who is also an alum of the prestigious film institute had a rather interesting take on Kher's new role. "Anupam is eminently qualified for the job. He knows cinema. He is a capable actor. But would he be able to devote enough time to the workings of the FTII? Let us not pretend otherwise: Anupam has inherited a very complicated job. The politics on the FTII campus is complex and sensitive. As someone who has been observing its workings very closely for years, I can only say lets keep our finger crossed," he said, reports Bollywood Hungama. Veteran Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor has finally shared the first look from his upcoming movie, Mulq on Twitter and its come as a surprise for fans. On Monday, 16 October, Rishi Kapoor changed his Twitter profile picture and also came up with a new bio saying, For all my fans my first look of the film 'Mulq'. Voice of tomorrow!" Sporting a long beard and a sombre expression, Rishi's look has made fans curious about the film. As per reports, Rishi has shot a scene at Lucknow palace for the movie. The location has incidentally been part of other iconic films like Junoon, Umrao Jaan and Gadar: Ek Prem Katha were shot. While speaking about Mulq, the veteran actor was quoted by ANI as saying, I have not done drama in a long time and when Anubhav narrated the film to me, I loved the concept of the film. Shooting in Benaras and Lucknow will be an added bonus since I have heard such great stories about the cities. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, Mulq also includes Taapsee Pannu, Rajat Kapoor, Neena Gupta, Ashutosh Rana and Prateik Babbar in its star cast. The interesting part is Anubhav has also written the script apart from Mushtaq Sheikh. Taapsee is expected to portray Rishis daughter-in-law whereas Neena may play the role of his wife. However, Rishi didn't just stop at the Mulq look. Replying to fans, he even shared another look from 102 Not Out. The film stars Rishi as Amitabh Bachchans son. He included this caption with the photo, Another different fun film I am doing '102 Not Out'with the amazing AB. Another diffrent fun film I am doing 102 Not Outwith the amazing AB pic.twitter.com/wtHpO5Hguc Rishi Kapoor (@chintskap) October 16, 2017 While Amitabh will be playing the role of a 102-year-old father, Rishi Kapoor will be his 75-year-old son. The two actors are right now busy shooting for the film, directed by Umesh Shukla. 102 Not Out is scheduled to be released in December. Rishi's last release was Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi. James Corden was recently trolled on Twitter for making jokes about Harvey Wesintein, Hollywood producer who is embroiled in multiple sexual harassment allegations. The Late Night Show host made a few jokes about Weinstein's alleged misbheaviour at a high-profile event which evoked both groans and laughter from the audience. In front of a packed audience, Corden started by saying what a beautiful night it was. So beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked tonight up to his hotel to give him a massage, he said after which a few members whined in disappointment. Soon after the event, a clip of the comedian was released on Twitter. Straight out gate, host @JKCorden with Harvey Weinstein jokes. Too soon? Some laughs, some groans #amfARLosAngeles pic.twitter.com/nx88w5UwUe Chris Gardner (@chrissgardner) October 14, 2017 Actors Rosie McGowan and Asia Argento, both of whom have said they were raped by the producer, instantly expressed their displeasure with his jokes. YOU MOTHERFUCKING PIGLET https://t.co/UU9LitO9zJ rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) October 15, 2017 2) Hearing the audiences vile roars & laughs show EXACTLY what kind of HOLLYWOOD you really are. https://t.co/HBqNxnpr7N rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) October 15, 2017 Shame on this pig and everyone who grunted with him #amfARLosAngeles https://t.co/0SujRNCzd9 Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) October 15, 2017 Corden later issued an apology saying that his joke was not aimed at the victims but the abuser himself. but to shame him, the abuser, not his victims. I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention. (2/2) James Corden (@JKCorden) October 15, 2017 In another ripple that Weinstein's case has caused, the Producers Guild of America has unanimously decided to expel the accused from the organisation. According to CBS News, the procedure has already begun and the final decision will be announced on 6 November. Weisntein is being given a chance to respond to these developments but he must do it before the day of the final verdict. This move comes days after the 65-year-old producers Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences membership was revoked. A global team of scientists gathered in the Chilean capital with the goal of determining whether the 1973 death of poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda was the result of cancer or of poison administered on the orders of dictator Augusto Pinochet. The panel, which includes recognised authorities from Chile, Spain, the United States, Denmark, Canada and France, is to deliver a report to Judge Mario Carroza, who is overseeing the investigation, Efe news reported. "What each of the experts brings is our little piece of the puzzle to try to construct together in the most reliable way possible what could have happened with the death of Pablo Neruda," said Spanish forensic pathologist Aurelio Luna. The Nobel laureate, who was suffering from prostate cancer, died on 23 September, 1973, 12 days after Pinochet toppled Chile's Socialist government in a bloody coup. His death was officially blamed on the cancer, but an investigation was opened in mid-2011 after a complaint was filed by Neruda's Communist Party colleagues based on charges by former chauffeur Manuel Araya that Neruda was murdered on Pinochet's orders. The poet's body was exhumed on 8 April, 2013, and a previous group of Chilean and international experts concluded seven months later that Neruda had not been poisoned. Carroza, however, was not fully satisfied and he ordered additional tests. The task of participants in this week's conference in Santiago is to analyse the results of those tests and come to some kind of conclusion. The initial review following the exhumation left a "series of doubts" that necessitate further review, Luna said. Investigations of other deaths have established that "crimes" took place at the Santa Maria Clinic - where Neruda died - during the Pinochet dictatorships, Eduardo Contreras, legal counsel for the Chilean Communist Party, said Monday. The 1982 death of former President Eduardo Frei Montalva, who governed from 1964-1970, at the Santa Marta Clinic after undergoing a routine procedure has been attributed to poisoning. "Pablo Neruda died in the same clinic, on the same floor, with the same doctors and several of the same nurses," Contreras said. The Nobel Prize winner, a member of the Communist Party Central Committee, died as he was preparing to travel to Mexico on a mission to organize opposition to Pinochet, the attorney said. Supporters of the theory that Neruda was murdered have pointed to the presence in his remains of a highly aggressive, penicillin-resistant bacterium. Lawyer Rodolfo Reyes, a nephew of Neruda who is representing the family, told EFE he was confident that the scientists meeting here would conclude that the poet was poisoned. Kolkata: The students body at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) on Tuesday launched a protest against imposition of 'draconian rules' and 'threats of expulsion' every other day. The protest comes in the wake of the expulsion of 14 women students, allegedly over hostel segregation."For the last 25 years, there was no rule regarding segregating male and female students in separate hostels. This rule was made overnight and also implemented overnight. Male students were shifted to one hostel and female students were asked to move to another part and it was labelled as 'Girls Hostel'. Besides this, different gender-based rules were imposed. This is a film school and SRFTI is a liberal space and such rules were never there. We don't know how to practice the freedom of expression," an expelled student said, adding this is a form of "moral policing". SRFTI students say the authorities claimed the rule was imposed to "ensure safety and security" of students. Several female students have earlier complained of sexual harassment by institute faculty and students. "Segregating students is not the solution. This is ridiculous. They should deal with sexual harassment cases," said another protesting student. They said the institute has turned into a 'highly undemocratic space' and slammed the 'dictatorial' and 'authoritarian' attitude of the authorities. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the student body said, "The administration has been coming up with draconian rules every other day and threatening the students constantly with expulsion from the institute, calling the police to threaten the students, imposing fines." The students said, "We want the threat of expulsion and police to be removed. Till that time, the students will go ahead with the strike with the firm resolve that it will not be taken back until our demands our met." They have pointed out "horrendous living conditions in the hostel", fee hike and imposition of high monetary fine for shortfall in attendance and delay in submission of fee, academic projects are being cut and modified, no increase in academic budget over six years as well as corruption. When contacted by IANS, SRFTI Director Debamitra Mitra said she could not comment as she was busy talking to the students. Last night, Sydney saw the premier of the third film in the Thor series Thor: Ragnarok which was attended by two of the cast members, Chris Hemsworth and Mark Ruffalo. The screening venue was HOYTS theatre. The red carpet witnessed a huge crowd of fans; some of them waited for hours on end to get a glimpse of their favourite star. The level of excitement was elevated all the more because Chris Hemsworth, who plays Thor, is a native of Australia. Both Mark and Chris interacted with these fans and were photographed by and with them. Thor: Ragnarok will also have a sequence which will show the clash between Thor and Hulk. Speaking about this, Mark Ruffalo remarked that it was great to 'smash' Thor in the film. Oh, it was great to smash him. I have been wanting for six years to do it. People always want to see Thor and Hulk fight with each other, and in this movie they will get to see it," he said. The third installment in the Thor series is also the funniest, and it is helmed by Taika Waititi. Taika holds the distinction of having been nominated for an Academy Award for his short film Two Cars, One Night in 2004. Thor: Ragnarok also marks the inclusion of Cate Blanchett as Hela in the Marvel universe. Chris mentioned that it was intimidating to be in the same frame as Cate Blanchett, Mark Ruffalo and Sir Anthony Hopkins. Its always intimidating, always. But at the same time you also get to learn from them. Sometime you work with other people and wonder how amazing they are. Its also about a sense of humility that you want to learn from people. A little bit of fear is good; it keeps you motivated and on your toes. Thor: Ragnarok is slated to release on 3 November. Los Angeles: Ugly Betty actress America Ferrera says she was sexually assaulted when she was all of 9. Her story comes in the wake of the 'Me Too' social media movement, which began in response to Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein's scandal, and sees women sharing their sexual harassment experiences via social media. Ferrera posted her story on Instagram. It read, "First time I can remember being sexually assaulted I was nine years old. I told no one and lived with the shame and guilt thinking all along that I, a nine-year-old child, was somehow responsible for the actions of a grown man. I had to see this man on a daily basis for years to come. He would smile at me and wave, and I would hurry past him, my blood running cold, my guts carrying the burden of what only he and I knew that he expected me to shut my mouth and smile back." She ended the post with a call to action. "Ladies, let's end this silence so the next generation of girls won't have to live with this bulls***," she added. #metoo A post shared by America Ferrera (@americaferrera) on Oct 16, 2017 at 6:52pm PDT Actress Alyssa Milano sparked the movement after tweeting a note that read, "Suggested by a friend: 'If all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted wrote 'me too' as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem.'" If youve been sexually harassed or assaulted write me too as a reply to this tweet. pic.twitter.com/k2oeCiUf9n Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) October 15, 2017 With inputs from IANS. A day after being released from the Dasna prison in Ghaziabad, Aarushi Talwar's parents Rajesh and Nupur left for Punjab to visit the Golden Temple, media reports said. #NewsAlert - The Talwars have left for Punjab to visit religious places pic.twitter.com/ez5ewuoCga News18 (@CNNnews18) October 17, 2017 On Monday, the Talwars walked out of Ghaziabad's Dasna jail, where they had spent four years over the murder of Aarushi and their domestic help Hemraj. Rajesh and Nupur, both dentists, looked sombre as they stepped out of the main inner gate of the jail towards a car that was waiting for them outside at 4.55 pm. Rajesh wore a white shirt and a pair of blue trousers, while his wife was dressed in an orange kurta, with a white salwar and dupatta. They both carried bags. Aarushi's uncle Dinesh Talwar, along with lawyer Tanveer Ahmed Mir, reached the jail at 4.48 pm. Minutes later, the Talwar couple were out of the prison, with photographers and camerapersons milling around to capture them in their frames. The two stood still for a few seconds, before walking up to the car, escorted by Dinesh. The police escorted the couple to the residence of Aarushi's maternal grandparents in Jalvayu Vihar in Noida. Nupur Talwar's father, BG Chitnis, was a former group captain in the Indian Air Force. While in jail, the Talwars earned Rs 40 a day as their daily wages, according to The Times of India. While Rajesh spend 1,471 days in Dasna jail, Nupur was imprisoned for 1,451 days. Their total earning amounted to over Rs 98,000, the entirety of which they pledged to their fellow inmates. The reports also stated that while Rajesh worked at the dental clinic in the jail hospital, Nupur did stitching and tailoring apart from helping out women patients at the dental clinic. Dinesh later spoke to the media and said that the dentist couple were in no position to speak to the media. "The pain of losing Aarushi can never go away and the grief over her loss, which was somewhere bottled up, will now come to the fore. They are not in a position to talk," he told reporters. "Aarushi and Hemraj's names were linked in this story. It was not only her parents who had been branded guilty but it was also Aarushi who was meted out the same treatment. Even Hemraj was held guilty. At this point, we can say none of them was guilty," he said. Convicted of the double murder, the Talwars were lodged in jail in 2013 and freed only after the Allahabad High Court on 12 October acquitted them. With inputs from PTI As the Talwars seek to move on after spending four years in prison, the question of 'what now' lingers. Their daughter is dead and law enforcement is no closer to solving the case than they were nine years ago. On Monday, after the Talwars were released from Dasna Jail, Rajesh Talwar's brother Dinesh spoke to the media and said, "The day Rajesh was convicted, he told me, 'I will fight this battle for Aarushi till my last breath'." While four years have passed since Rajesh resolved to keep fighting, it is difficult to imagine that the Talwars' will for battle has weakened. To understand what form this battle might take, Firstpost spoke to Tanveer Ahmed Mir, the lawyer who led the arguments for the Talwars in the trial as well as the high court. When asked about the possibility of the CBI approaching the Supreme Court, Mir said that he was not worried. He said he has full faith and that if the Supreme Court issues a notice to his clients, they will certainly appear and defend themselves. He however, pointed to the high court judgment and said that the Talwars have not just been acquitted on the basis of benefit of doubt but that the court has instead taken apart the entire case as laid out by the CBI. He said he hoped that the CBI introspects and recognises that their stance was incorrect. On the issue of what further steps the Talwars would take to ensure that the murderer was caught, Mir said that while one can hope for many things, the truth was that his clients' options were limited. He added that while he was bound by attorney-client privilege and could not reveal the exact steps they would take, they were looking at how the CBI will proceed in the matter. He also pointed out that in spite of a clearly present grievance along with evidence against others who were initially accused, there was only so much his clients could do. They cannot file a fresh complaint as an older one is already with the authorities, he stated. Further, with so much time passing since Aarushi's murder, it would be difficult for an investigation to bear fruit, he added. He also stated that while the Supreme Court has vast powers and could theoretically take the CBI to task and ask it to reinvestigate the case, predicting such a scenario would be speculative at best. In fact, since there has been a conviction and an acquittal, if the apex court now upholds the high court judgment and simultaneously orders a reinvestigation, such a scenario would be a first in the annals of Indian judiciary, he added. On the question of whether other parties might approach the court seeking justice for Aarushi and Hemraj, he said that he has no control over what others do. They could certainly approach the Supreme Court (under Article 32 of the Constitution) or the Allahabad High Court (under Article 226 of the Constitution) but he said he was more concerned about the end result. He yet again pointed to the time which had lapsed and the difficulty of investigating a nine-year-old case. As far as the question of a public interest litigation (PIL) was concerned, he once again acknowledged it was possibile but spoke of such action with disdain. He used the phrase "legal voyeurism" and brought up Subramanian Swamy's PIL filed in the Sunanda Pushkar case. He however, said that should people choose to file such a petition, the Talwars couldn't stop them. Finally, he said that while the release of the Talwars was a relief, it was hardly the case of them popping champagne bottles to celebrate. They are simply trying to get on with their lives, he said, adding that he hoped that their hard times were behind them. The controversy over historical monuments in India saw another player enter the fray as controversial Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan said that the President's house is a sign of slavery. He further added that not destroying such a symbol is a sign of political impotency. President's house is a sign of slavery. Not destroying signs of slavery is political impotency: Azam Khan, Samajwadi Party pic.twitter.com/T9ft3wz96j News18 (@CNNnews18) October 17, 2017 Khan's comments come a day after BJP MLA Sangeet Som declared on Monday that the Taj Mahal was a "blot on India culture". Som added that the monument was built by 'traitors.' Without mentioning Som's name, Khan said, "I am not responding to the man who made this statement, because people who have slaughter houses running have no right to give any suggestions, reported ABP News. He further added that not only Taj Mahal, even Parliament house, President house, Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Agra Fort should be demolished for all these are signs of slavery. The MLA from Sardhana in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut, Som, referred to the recent removal of Taj Mahal from the Uttar Pradesh tourism booklet and said, "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from Uttar Pradesh tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? The creator of Taj Mahal (Shahjahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out Hindus. If these people are part of our history, then it is very sad and we will change this history", reported CNN-News18. (Som apparently thinks Shahjahan imprisoned his father. It was Shahjahan who was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb. Ed) The BJP for its part described the Muslim rule in India as "barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance", while asserting that its members can hold any opinion they want on specific monuments. Asked about the BJP's stand on Som's comments, party spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said the party does not have any view on specific monuments and its members can hold whatever opinion they have. "But as far as the Muslim, Mughal rule in this country is concerned, that period can only be described as exploitative, barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance which harmed Indian civilisation and traditions immensely," he told PTI. In October, Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site, had failed to feature in Uttar Pradesh's recent tourism booklet namely 'Uttar Pradesh Paryatan-Apaar Sambhavnayen' . The booklet was released to mark six months of Yogi Adityanath's government. Opposition leaders such as Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi had criticised the move. In June 2017, the Uttar Pradesh chief minister had said that Ramayana and Bhagwad Gita represent the Indian culture and not the Taj Mahal, according to News18. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Afghanistan president Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah and the top brass of the country's military establishment in Kabul on Monday even as senior representatives from the US, China, Pakistan and Afghanistan met in Muscat, Oman to revive stalled peace talks with the Taliban. The insurgent group, however, failed to participate in the meeting being held after a year. In the backdrop of the meeting, India, a close partner in Afghanistan's rebuilding efforts, sent Doval to meet with the leadership. The sixth round of Quadrilateral Coordination Group's (QCG) meeting was held in Muscat to revive peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban. The meeting was expected to focus on implementing commitments, especially Pakistan's promises, regarding fighting terrorism in its tribal regions. The Pakistan team was led by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua. Ahead of the meet, Afghan foreign ministry spokesman Shekib Mustaghni said in addition to discussions on commitments, the delegates would share ideas on counter-terrorism efforts. "The meeting (QCG) is aimed to review Pakistan's commitments on (peace) talks that had been made at previous meetings," said Mustaghni. The peace talks on Afghanistan were halted last year in May after an American drone killed the then Taliban chief Mullah Akhtar Mansoor in the southern part of Balochistan bordering Iran. A statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that Doval paid a visit to Afghanistan at the invitation of his Afghan counterpart Hanif Atmar. Doval called on President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah. NSA Atmar hosted a working lunch for Doval where the Ministers of Defence, Interior, NDS, Chief of Army Staff, Independent Directorate of Local Governance and senior officials of the National Security Council were also present, the statement said. Both sides exchanged views on various facets of the bilateral strategic partnership and regional and global issues of mutual interest. Both sides emphasised that "bilateral and sincere regional cooperation is important for peace, security and stability in the region" and welcomed the opportunities created by the new US strategy for bringing peace and security in Afghanistan. It was agreed to further strengthen strategic dialogue and consultations for achieving the shared objectives, it said. Doval on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited President Ghani to visit India. The invitation was accepted. Meanwhile, a Pakistani media outlet said that Islamabad had approached the Taliban and asked it to prepare a team to participate in the peace negotiations. The Taliban had earlier refused to accept Islamabad's call to join the political dialogue. According to TOLONews, the previous five quadrilateral meetings saw a roadmap outlined for peace, but after the meetings, Pakistan was accused of not fulfilling its promises and the follow-up meeting was delayed. Afghan Senate members said they were not hopeful of any positive result emerging from the meeting. "(The Afghan) government should make it clear when we will see the results of such meetings," Senator Abdul Rahman Achakzai said. The first quadrilateral meet was held between Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and US on the sidelines of the Heart of Asia Summit in 2015, and following that four other meetings were held in Kabul and Islamabad. The talks in Oman come after Pakistan last week said that India's "controversial role" in Afghanistan was not in the interest of regional stability and not acceptable to Pakistan. The Muscat meeting also comes days after Pakistani authorities played an important role in securing the release of a Canadian-American couple from the Taliban-linked Haqqani network's captivity a development that was appreciated by the US. With inputs from agencies. Agartala: In view of the large-scale Rohingya influx into Bangladesh, security along the India-Bangladesh borders has been further tightened to prevent any such infiltration into the northeastern region. "We have further alerted our troopers posted along the borders with Bangladesh. BSF personnel supervised by the senior officials intensified their patrolling along the borders to prevent any kind of influx, especially of the Rohingyas," BSF's Tripura frontier Inspector General SR Ojha told the media on Tuesday. He said, "Since 2015, many Rohingyas infiltrated into Tripura and other northeastern states via Bangladesh in search of jobs. But after the recent turmoil in Myanmar's Rakhine state, no Rohingya entered the region." Director General of Police (DGP) Akhil Kumar Shukla said, "Though Tripura has no border with Myanmar, we have asked the BSF to further strengthen security along the 856-kilometre boundary with Bangladesh." "Over 18 battalions of para-military troopers were earlier deployed along the India-Bangladesh border with Tripura. We have asked the BSF to also deploy their training battalions in these frontiers," the police chief told the media. BSF officials looking after security along the Bangladesh border with Tripura and Mizoram said, "Our commanders are taking suitable steps to thwart any attempt by the Rohingyas who are fleeing Myanmar, from entering Indian territories. The BSF is also prepared to deal with any eventuality." On many occasions in the past, Rohingyas had entered Tripura and a few other northeastern states via Bangladesh illegally in search of jobs. Subsequently, they were pushed back to Bangladesh following legal and security formalities. India shares a 4,096-kilometre-long border with Bangladesh in the states of West Bengal (2,216 kilometre), Tripura (856 kilometre), Meghalaya (443 kilometre), Mizoram (318 kilometre) and Assam (263 kilometre). Large parts of these borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar are riverine, mountainous and unfenced, thereby enabling illegal immigrants, intruders and smugglers to cross over without much of a problem. The Centre and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday informed the Kerala High Court that it has no objection to the investigation into the killings of RSS workers in the state, ANI reported. They were responding to a PIL filed by a Gopalan Adiyodi Vakkeel Smaraka Trust's secretary RK Premdas. CBI and Centre inform Kerala HC that they have no objection in taking over investigation of murders of BJP workers in the state. ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2017 The high court sought a reply from the Kerala government on the PIL, also directing the state government to file a counter affidavit by 25 October, CNN-News18 reported. The report added that the case would come up for hearing on 30 October. The latest development comes at a time when the state is witnessing BJP-led protests against the killings of RSS workers. The RSS had asked for an investigation into the killing of its workers in Kerala, especially Kannur, which has been a hotbed of RSS-CPM rivalry. On 4 August, just days after a RSS worker Rajesh was killed in Thiruvananthapuram, RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale had urged the CPM-led government to begin an investigation into the "political killings". "We condemn the incident but condemning it will not bring back the dead. We want this political violence to end. There should be a judicial inquiry by either a judge of High court or the Supreme Court in the murders of RSS workers in the state," Hosabale had told reporters in New Delhi. According to a Hindustan Times report, political killings between the RSS and CPM in Kerala's Kannur, Thiruvananthapuram and other districts have been prevalent since the first half of the 20th century. According to the report, as many as 69 political murders took place between 2000 and 2016 in Kannur alone, with RSS losing as many workers as CPM. With inputs from agencies New Delhi: A PIL seeking direction to treat the national song 'Vande Mataram', authored by poet Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, at par with the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' was on Tuesday dismissed by the Delhi High Court. A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar said that though it agreed with the petitioner's view, but it cannot grant the relief sought. "Though we agree with the petitioner that 'Vande Mataram' be recognised by the respondent as equal to 'Jana Gana Mana'. We are of the view that we are unable to grant the relief sought in the petition," the bench said. The court's order came on a public interest litigation of Delhi resident Gautam R Morarka, who had urged the bench that directions be given to the Centre in this regard so that proper dignity and respect can be maintained when 'Vande Mataram' is played or sung. The Centre had opposed the PIL saying 'Vande Mataram' occupies a "unique and special place" in the psyche of Indians but it cannot be treated at par with 'Jana Gana Mana', penned by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Seeking dismissal of the PIL, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had said the plea that 'Vande Mataram' be treated on par with 'Jana Gana Mana' cannot be accepted. The PIL had also sought a direction to amend the 1971 National Honour Act accordingly to ensure equal respect for 'Vande Mataram'. The MHA had said that on the petitioner's representation and subsequent PIL, it had set up a committee which had met on 29 March, 2016 and recommended that status quo be maintained in this regard. The panel had expressed hope that every citizen would remember the historic role of 'Vande Mataram' in the freedom struggle and show due respect to it whenever it is played or sung, it had said. "It has become synonymous with valour, dedication and love for one's motherland and does not require any crutches to hold it (the song) in the heads and hearts of India's citizenry," the MHA had said. Morarka in his plea had said even in 1950, the then President of India had said that 'Vande Mataram' shall be honoured equally with 'Jana Gana Mana'. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax Department teams arrived at Sirsa on Tuesday to probe assets of Dera Sacha Sauda as directed by Punjab and Haryana High Court, media reports said. #Haryana ED & I-T dept teams arrive in Sirsa to probe assets of Dera Sacha Sauda as directed by Punjab and Haryana HC ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2017 The high court had in last month, directed the agencies to examine the Dera Sacha Sauda sect's assets and check for violation of rules. The high court had made the observation while hearing a public interest litigation regarding the sect and its activities. Additional Solicitor General of India Satya Pal Jain, who is representing the Centre in the case had said, "The high court had directed the ED and IT authorities to examine all properties of the Dera Sacha Sauda movable and immovable and funds and see if there were any violation of the provisions of the IT Act and Prevention of Money Laundering Act", The New Indian Express reported. The amount spent on Dera chief Gurmeet Ram Rahims films will be probed as well. ED will also investigate Singh's foreign funding, Hindustan Times reported. The Punjab and Haryana High court had earlier this month ordered search and sanitisation of the 700-acre sprawling campus of the sect near Sirsa town in Haryana. The court commissioner, who carried out the search operation along with Haryana Police, paramilitary forces, and district authorities, will submit his report to the high court soon. The three-day-long exercise to sanitise the sect headquarters at Sirsa, from 8 to 10 September, had led to the unearthing of two secret tunnels and an illegal firecracker factory, and the sealing of an unlicensed skin bank. Meanwhile, The Haryana Police has also arrested Dera's Chartered Accountant and CEO of MSG company CP Arora over alleged involvement in Panchkula violence conspiracy, ANI reported. SIT #Haryana Police arrest Dera's Chartered Accountant & CEO MSG company CP Arora over alleged involvement in Panchkula violence conspiracy ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2017 MSG is an acronym for Mastana Ji, Satnam Ji and Gurmeet Singh, the three gurus who have headed the Dera since its inception in 1948, according to Business standard. Arora was spearheading the business ventures of Singh, the convicted chief of cult group Dera Sacha Sauda, the report added. Singh was convicted by a special CBI court in Panchkula on 25 August for raping two disciples. Thirty-five people died in incidents of violence in Panchkula after his conviction while six lives were lost in Sirsa. The sect chief was handed down two 10-year terms of imprisonment to be served consecutively and is currently lodged in the Sunaria jail in Rohtak. With inputs from agencies At least seven persons, including three women, were killed and several others feared trapped when a two-storeyed building collapsed due to a suspected LPG cylinder blast near Ejipura in Bengaluru on Monday. Eyewitnesses said the blast took place at around 7 am, bringing down a large portion of the 20-year-old building. Fire brigade and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, who rushed to the spot, recovered the bodies, including those of the three women, the police said. However, the executive director of Indian Oil Corportation Limited ruled out cylinder blast as the reason behind the collapse. Speaking to ANI, an IOCL executive director said, "Highlights in sections of media that Bengaluru Ejipura building collapse is due to LPG blast is not validated (sic)." The IOCL executive director added, "We are unable to carry out further investigation since police have cordoned off the area...." Highlights in sections of media that Bengaluru Ejipura building collapse is due to LPG blast is not validated: IOCL Executive Director ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2017 Initial probe revealed no IOCL customer resided in building. No accident on account of LPG cylinders been reported: IOCL Executive Director ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2017 We are unable to carry out further investigation since police have cordoned off the area & rescue ops are underway: IOCL Executive Director ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2017 The deceased have been identified as Kalavathi (68), Ravichandran (46), Prasad (18), Ashwini (28), Saravana (18), Maladri (25) and Sarva Kalyan (19). The government has announced a compensation of Rs five lakh each for the kin of the deceased. The police said three-year-old Sanjana, who was rescued from the debris, had sustained 60 per cent burns and was in a critical condition. She was admitted to the Victoria Hospital. Along with the child, Janaki (26) was also undergoing treatment for burn injuries that she received in the incident, the police added. Karnataka home minister Ramalinga Reddy, who visited the spot of the building collapse, told reporters that the structure belonged to one Gunesh, who had rented it out to three families. "Two families were residing on the ground floor, while one was on the first floor. Kalavathi and Ravichandran were on the first floor. They died on the spot, while two children were injured," the minister said. Bengaluru mayor R Sampath Raj, however, said four families were residing in the building. At least 40 firefighters and NDRF personnel were engaged in the rescue operations. Three firefighters were also injured when a wall caved in on them while they were clearing the debris to pull out those trapped on Monday, the police said, adding that they have been shifted to a nearby hospital. A bomb disposal squad was also pressed into service to ascertain the cause of the blast. With inputs from agencies The government is using aircraft and vessels to search for the 10 missing crew members of the cargo ship that sank in the Pacific off the Philippines last week, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday. The 33,205-tonne Emerald Star with 26 Indian nationals on board sent a distress signal early on Friday as the Hong Kong-registered vessel was sailing some 280 kilometres (174 miles) east of the northern tip of the Philippines, said a statement from the Japanese coastguard, which received the distress signal. MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that 11 crew members were rescued by the ship Densa Cobra, registered in Xiamen, China and five more by Samarinda, registered in the Philippines. Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of 'Emerald Star' in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen pic.twitter.com/tKXWwKzfng Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 16, 2017 Search for the missing members is still going on using aircraft and vessels, he added. The Hindu quoted officials of Vridhi Maritime Pvt Ltd, which manages the ship, as saying that they have not received any update on the status of the missing crew. The spokesperson of the company said that they are awaiting information on those missing, the report added. Raveesh Kumar in a tweet on Sunday, listed the names of the missing and saved crew members. Updated status regarding the 26 Indian crew members of vessel 'Emerald Star' pic.twitter.com/EBIuyoCzwa Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 15, 2017 The external affairs ministry has also announced helpline numbers for information related to the sinking. Those seeking information can get in touch with the MEA control room on 0091-11-23012113/ 0091-11-23017905 and 0091-11-23015300 or at controlroom@mea.gov.in. The Indian Navy has also dispatched one of its aircraft for maritime reconnaissance to assist in search and rescue operations, The New Indian Express reported. "One P-8I aircraft took off at 11.45 pm on Sunday for Manila to search for missing sailors of MV Emerald Star," the navy official said, according to the report. P8I is a long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. The aircraft is carrying two SAR kits that contain a 10-men inflatable dinghy, emergency food and water supply onboard which can be dropped near the survivors, The Hindu reported. The Japanese coastguard too has sent out two patrol boats and three planes to the site, but the typhoon made a rescue difficult. With inputs from agencies Srinagar: Opposition National Conference's president and Lok Sabha member Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday asked the people of Jammu and Kashmir to rise above their differences and unite to foil the "evil designs" against the state. The former chief minister made the remarks at the Charar-e-Sharief shrine where he had gone to pay obeisance at the tomb of Shiekh Nooruddin Noorani, the revered Kashmiri saint. "People of the state are going through tough and trying times. It is, therefore, imperative for all of us to rise above our narrow needs and come together as a united force to quell the evil designs of those who are hatching conspiracies to harm J&K and its people," Abdullah told reporters in Budgam district. Abdullah prayed for sustained peace, stability and development of the state and well being of the people. He also interacted with devotees and inquired about the upkeep of the shrine before offering prayers. Abdullah emphasised on the need for imbibing the teachings of the revered saint, saying "this spirit has to be maintained at all costs". The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday stayed the Centre's decision to pull out CRPF troops from Darjeeling until 27 October, the date of the next hearing. Trinamool welcomed the high court's decision, media reports said. #BREAKING - Calcutta HC stays Centre's decision to pull out troops from Darjeeling pic.twitter.com/8414D6KeOs News18 (@CNNnews18) October 17, 2017 On Sunday, the home ministry had ordered the withdrawal of as many as 1,000 paramilitary personnel, including 300 women, deployed in Darjeeling to maintain law and order during the agitation for a separate Gorkhaland state, PTI said. In a communication, the ministry had said that seven companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), including three women companies, and three companies of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel would be withdrawn from Darjeeling from Monday. One company of paramilitary comprises 100 personnel. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday had urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Rajnath Singh not to pull security forces out of the Darjeeling hills and had accused the central government of "conspiring to destabilise" the state. Banerjee said that she had sent letters to Modi and Singh on the withdrawal of the central forces. The West Bengal BJP has supported the Centre's move to withdraw central forces from Darjeeling claiming the government had been using the force as a shield to foil the agitation against its "anti-people policies" in the region. Blaming Banerjee for stoking the fire in Darjeeling and tormenting the people there, the party said that the central forces could not be used for "anti-people activities". "The Centre has the right to decide where they would deploy central forces. It can't be used for anti-people activities and for torturing the commoners. Banerjee should not expect that the central forces would handle the hostility and agitation of people that was created because of her government's anti-people policies," state BJP president Dilip Ghosh said. Ghosh claimed that during his visit to Darjeeling earlier this month, the locals requested him to ask the Centre to withdraw the central forces as, they alleged, they were being used to intimidate and thrash the locals. With inputs from agencies The owner of High Spirits, one of Pune's most popular clubs and performance venues, has been accused of sexual harassment by several women as well as one man. If you have a Twitter account, or are active on social media, various updates about High Spirits have probably flooded your timeline. The owner of this establishment, Khodu Irani, has been accused of groping, sending lewd messages, fat-shaming and harassing multiple patrons/employees of his cafe. Women and men have also spoken about the culture of the club, calling it 'toxic' and claiming it is not only turning a blind eye towards this behaviour, but also perpetuating it. The first person to talk about this was Sheena Dabholkar, a Pune-based writer and blogger, who began a thread on Twitter highlighting the harassment witnessed at High Spirits, as well as the response she got for calling it out. Last year I was publicly shamed on the Facebook page for an extremely popular bar called High Spirits in Pune for calling out sexism Sheena (@weeny) October 11, 2017 This is standard High Spirits. I've had my nipples, tits, weight commented on. Friends have had bra straps tugged, upskirt photos taken. Sheena (@weeny) October 11, 2017 "The behaviour is literally (sic) excused and the abuse is minimised in favour of 'they're harmless', 'arrey Irani dudes are like this, a bit mad' etc," she wrote. "My friends who worked at High Spirits have all been fat shamed or slut shamed. None have spoken out. They have told me they can't," wrote Dabholkar. Speaking to Firstpost, Dabholkar said the first time she spoke about this, she was silenced, and memes were made about her and posted on the official Facebook page of High Spirits. When asked why she chose to speak about the issue again, she said, "This time there was no incident. As a person with interests in mental health, permaculture and feminism, I think about safe spaces a lot." She also said that "awards" are given out to women for "best b**bs" at the establishment. I'm back to say eat shit High Spirits pic.twitter.com/n73w0FcLjd Sheena (@weeny) October 13, 2017 Vijayta Lalwani, a journalist, told Firstpost about how she was harassed twice at the venue; the last time was in September 2017. "I was harassed in the same way by two men on two separate occasions. They were both strangers. I was alone, watching a band perform when it happened," she said. She also added that she has heard from friends about the "best b**bs" award being given out every year during their anniversary celebration party, which is an invite-only event. "Women are apparently told beforehand that they will be receiving this award," said Lalwani. I have bad news for so many High Spirits deniers pic.twitter.com/4xLjtDjf65 Sheena (@weeny) October 14, 2017 Meanwhile, a bunch of women chose to tweet about their experiences with High Spirits. "Been years since I have been to High Spirits, but it had that obvious and typical frat boy culture. And believe me knowing High Spirits, the owner and his coterie, this was no stray or isolated incident," wrote Aparna, who goes by the handle @fucshiascribe. If you are dancing, that owner will come and try to hug you from behind. It doesn't matter if he knows you or not. Baa (@Baaltipro) October 12, 2017 I have heard horror stories of Irani coming and tugging at college girls' bra straps or suggesting that they do a little shimmie for him for free drinks ughh Ok gal Riri (@Rheadangs) October 11, 2017 "I've spoken about how I felt violated at High Spirits, seconds after it happened, to friends and employees, and to the perpetrator later... This is not an act of revenge; together we have turned up our volume because our previous quiet and personal conversations regarding the perpetrator made us feel more unsafe, irrelevant, helpless and stripped off our dignity," writes Anya Reddy on Facebook. Tanmay Bhat, founder of All India Bakchod, also tweeted about being groped on stage by Khodu Irani. I was once on stage at High Spirits when Khodu jumped onto stage and groped me, you know, coz I'm overweight. Tanmay Bhat (@thetanmay) October 14, 2017 It was my first time there and I was in the middle of my set in front of 200 odd people there. Tanmay Bhat (@thetanmay) October 14, 2017 Dabholkar, who received many responses, put up screenshots of some of the women who wrote to her and sought anonymity. I don't know these women and I have made 0 call outs for victims to join me because I know it's awful. pic.twitter.com/bAshj3FTda Sheena (@weeny) October 14, 2017 Thread of 'what shit', 'never experienced that' but deafening silence on comments that say me too pic.twitter.com/q4uKnpqpE4 Sheena (@weeny) October 14, 2017 When asked if she had filed a police complaint following these incidents, Vijayta Lalwani said no. Recently, a Medium blog written by an ex-employee Divya who has only mentioned her first name gives what seems to be an inside view into this issue. As per the post, she worked at the club for three years until 2013 in the capacity of a PA, social media manager, front desk employee and artist manager. She writes about how she was groped and bullied by her boss, and how she spoke to his spouse about this. "...and so he (my boss) then poured a pint of beer on my head during my shift, and told me told that if I went home to change, or ever brought this up to her (his spouse) again, I would lose my job." He also allegedly fat-shamed her and groped her in the process. "He came at me pinching and tickling my fat stomach until I was backed into a corner, sobbing on the floor. There was another girl present, but she didnt interfere," reads the post. "This was only the beginning. Groping (butt and boob), body-shaming, slut-shaming, pinching, bullying, intense verbal and emotional abuse were part of the daily routine. I was called ugly, fat, and disgusting, on a regular basis. If I got upset, I was called weak, belittled in front of other people, and told that this was all for my own good so that I could toughen up. He said it was because he cared about me. No amount of protests on my part saying NO, STOP, or fighting back, made any amount of difference. I repeatedly tried bringing it up to his spouse, and mutual friends, but their responses were always the same: youre just over-reacting, he didnt mean it, hes a good person, dont worry and worst of all hes harmless," she goes on to write. Her post mentions that other employees, including women, told her that he was "only joking around". This sense of complicity is a common thread running through most accounts of victims. So rampant was the issue that female employees allegedly took to crying in the restroom as the only resort. She met him in 2015 for a "courtesy meeting" and recounts the experience of being harassed by him, yet again. "He tried to belittle me, but I defended myself verbally. When I got up to leave, he gabbed my waist from behind and did a few vigorous thrusts with his pelvis into my buttocks, saying oh thats the most action Ive gotten in six months (his wife has just birthed a son a few weeks earlier)," she writes. Saleena Aggarwal, another ex-employee, also wrote about being groped and forcibly kissed by Irani while she worked there. How many more accounts will there be High Spirits!! Thanks Saleena for sharing #byespirits pic.twitter.com/yKwTlcp3Nf Sheena (@weeny) October 16, 2017 Firstpost has reached out to High Spirits on e-mail and Facebook, however no responses have been received on either platform. A source who does not want to be named but claims to be a close associate of Irani and a former employee, said that he is speaking on behalf of the owner, who he claims is not in the country at the moment. "High Spirits will not be able to respond with an official statement for the next one or two days. If you're obligated to write this piece, please go ahead, but I can't give a statement now," they said. When asked if they were aware of the allegations made against Irani, they declined to comment. When asked why High Spirits is choosing to remain silent, the spokesperson declined to comment. In a statement previously given to Buzzfeed, a spokesperson for the establishment said that all these allegations are "agenda-driven" and an attempt at trying to "tarnish reputation". "We are deeply shocked and saddened by the allegations, and completely deny the same. It appears these lies are emanating from a single person, with an agenda, who appears to be motivated by the desire to tarnish the reputation of a bar that has an unblemished record of not having any issues like this arise in its premises in all 13 years of its existence," said the spokesperson. They added that women's safety is their "top priority" and that they have female bouncers staff and administrators "to ensure assistance and vigilance for female patrons, and even screened rickshaw drivers for female patrons, to make sure women get home safe". In light of these allegations, many comedy groups have expressed anger and condemned both Irani and his establishment, adding that they will no longer perform there. Notably, not a lot of musicians have responded to these allegations. Ive been reading quite a bit about whats going on with High Spirits Pune. As someone who has performed on that stage its shameful (1/n) Karan Talwar (@SpiralOutKaran) October 14, 2017 I knew about this behaviour at High Spirits since 2016. Heard about it from friends. I stopped taking shows there-but I never mentioned why. Aditi (@awryaditi) October 14, 2017 Disgusted by the stories of harrasment and misogyny at High Spirits. I'm never doing a show there again. Karunesh Talwar (@karuneshtalwar) October 12, 2017 Not just comedians, performers, and musicians but every customer should boycott HIGH SPIRITS, Pune. https://t.co/8LDMjnxVmW (@varungrover) October 16, 2017 High Spirits continues to be open and performances have still been scheduled. They seemed to have referred to this outrage as "a few days of calm" and their rating on Zomato is 4.1. Firstpost awaits an official response from High Spirits. Washington: An Indian defence expert has said that India is ready to tackle China's military threat and Pakistan will continue to use nuclear threat as a deterrent, but will cause more damage with sponsoring on-going acts of terrorism. In a keynote address on "India's Security", Virendra Gupta, Former Director General of the Institute of Defence and Security Analysis (IDSA), observed that Pakistan's internal dynamics will continue to compel its military and politicians to portray the India bogey. "Pakistan will continue to use nuclear threat, as a deterrent but will cause more damage with sponsoring on-going acts of terrorism," he said in his keynote address at the event organised by Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), a think tank for policy analysis, awareness and advocacy for India and Indian diaspora related issues in Silicon Valley over the weekend. Despite of repeated attempts to establish a peace, India should prepare itself to tackle the state sponsored terrorism, Gupta said as he sought a multi-fold increase in investments in intelligence to counter the terrorism by India. Referring to the recent Doka La standoff, Gupta emphasised that today's India is far different than 1962's, both militarily and politically, especially with new government under the leadership of Prime minister Narendra Modi, FIIDS said in a media release issued on Monday. From his discussions with serving as well as recently retired military and civil personnel, he shared his observation that, "India is ready to tackle China's military threat". However, he noted that 1962 had a great impact on India's population and media was projecting unwarranted defeatist views during the Doka La conflict. New Delhi: India on Tuesday reiterated its concern to the US over the latest bid to introduce stricter norms for issuance of H1-B visas which are largely availed by Indian IT firms. The Indian concerns were conveyed during a meeting between External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and a US Congressional delegation from the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology. "EAM @SushmaSwaraj flagged the issue of H1B visa as a strong concern and sought bipartisan Congressional support for the same," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted following the meeting between Sushma Swaraj and the nine-member delegation led by the House Committee's Chairman Lamar Smith. US President Donald Trump has called for stricter norms for issuance of H1-B visas, largely availed of by Indian IT firms. A private member's bill was also introduced earlier this year in the US Congress by Democrat Zoe Lofgren which seeks to increase the minimum salary of an H1-B visa holder to a whopping $130,000 from the current minimum of $60,000. Sushma Swaraj also raised the issue with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson during a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly Session last month. While Trump has spoken of restricting the H1-B visa system as part of his policy of putting Americans first, so far there have been no changes to it and for this year the same levels of 65,000 for general H1-B visas and 20,000 for those with advanced US degrees have been kept. Indians get most of the H1-B visas, although there are no national quotas for the facility nor is it specifically designed for Indians. In Tuesday's meeting, Sushma Swaraj lauded the positive role of the US Congress in developing India-US strategic relations. "EAM @SushmaSwaraj welcomed the strong desire of the delegation to strengthen cooperation in strategic, economic, S&T and space sectors," Kumar said in a separate tweet. On New Delhi railway station, one might run into homeless children who call the Rajdhani their mother and the Shatabdi their father. They appear on the platform to scavenge-hunt stale rice, cold dal, sour curd, and any edible food the train discards. Hunger is painfully abundant in a country like India, which in the last 10 years, has slipped six positions from 94 to 100 (out of 119 countries) on the World Hunger Index. As per World Bank research, India has one of the world's largest population of children suffering from malnutrition, almost double the corresponding number for sub-Saharan Africa. India is also the second largest producer of food in the world, and the largest producer of fruits and vegetables, milk, cereal and aquatic products. Why then is there such glaring disparity in numbers? Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Union minister of food processing industries, said, "The problem is because of critical gaps in infrastructure. Countries like Malaysia and Indonesia process 80 percent of their food. India produces enough, but it doesn't reach the people. In other countries, wastage happens on the plate, but in India, it happens at the harvest, transportation and storage stages. But through technology and foreign investment, this can be fixed." Almost 25-30 percent of agricultural produce is estimated to be wasted in India, while only seven percent of the total perishable produce is processed, which is abysmal compared to countries like the US (65 percent), Philippines (78 percent) and China (23 percent). To attract interest and intervention by foreign players in our food sector, Badal's ministry made an official announcement for 'World Food India 2017', a three-day food exhibition that will host 2,000 participants and 200 companies from 30 countries. It will give 18 ministerial and business delegations a platform to bolster investment and trade. The conclave will be held from 3-5 November on the India Gate lawns, and is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. CEOs of leading Indian and global food chains including ITC, Amazon, Walmart, Nestle, Metro Cash & Carry India, Cargill and Patanjali were present at the curtain raiser event. A big promise will be made on a colossal scale. But how will it be realised in India's 127 agro-climatic zones located far away from the sound and fury generated in New Delhi? "When I took charge of the ministry (in 2014), I noticed a lot of policy promise but no ground impact. From 2008 to 2014, only two Mega Food Parks were operationalised. In two years, I have operationalised six," Harsimrat said. The Mega Food Park scheme is a mechanism that links agricultural production to the market by bringing together farmers, processors and retailers in order to ensure maximising value addition, minimising wastage, increasing farmers' income and creating employment opportunities, especially in villages. These are designed to create modern infrastructure facilities for food processing along the value chain from farm to market with strong forward and backward linkages through a cluster-based approach. Common facilities and enabling infrastructure is created at the Central Processing Centre and facilities for primary processing and storage is created near the farm in the form of Primary Processing Centers (PPCs) and Collection Centers (CCs). "Under the scheme, the government offers subsidies up to Rs 50 crore per Mega Food Park project," Badal said, adding that all 12 Mega Food Parks will be operational within two years. The first one, Srini Mega Food Park, opened in Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh in 2012. Currently, nine of them are functional namely Patanjali Food and Herbal Park in Haridwar, Srini Food Park in Chittoor, North East Mega Food Park in Nalbari, International Mega Food Park in Fazilka, Integrated Food Park in Tumkur, Jharkhand Mega Food Park in Ranchi, Indus Mega Food Park in Khargoan, Jangipur Bengal Mega Food Park in Murshidabad and MITS Mega Food Park in Rayagada, Odisha. Foundation stones have also been laid for two new Mega Food Parks in Kerala. "In a targeted fashion, we are setting up infrastructure for farmers to move forward. There are also 101 cold chains that were sanctioned three months ago and another 50 will be operationalised soon. We are also working on a food processing policy that should be finalised shortly," she added. With a population of 1.3 billion and a retail sector that's expected to treble by 2020, India is a vast, demand-driven market and is attractive for foreign players. "We believe in the principle of Videshi paise se swadeshi bhala. Foreign Direct Investment, which has increased to over 40 percent in the last year, will grow further. This year, we expect $10 billion worth of investment at World Food India. After GST, the ease of doing business has gone up and India, being one of the fast growing economies in the world, generates a huge amount of interest among global players," she said. Kaur added that many companies are coming to India to partner Indian companies on social responsibility and skill development. "Denmark and Germany have already shown an interest, while Netherlands is also partnering through universities. In fact, the Netherlands ambassador has already partnered with apple growers and is doing vertical apple farming to increase acreage and yield. So, right from machine manufacturing to food safety to testing to retail, there is huge potential in the entire chain," she adds. Germany, Japan and Denmark are partner countries at World Food India, while Italy and Netherlands are focus countries for the mega event, which is being organised to position India as a global food factory and a global sourcing hub. The other consequence of World Food India will be a more enhanced focus on technology. The hunger index is associated with our storage and nascent processing, Badal explained, and gave the example of tomato farmers who can value add and turn their yield into puree instead of having to watch their produce perish. Tomato is a summer crop that requires a temperate range of 26-30 degree Celsius and 14-19 degree Celsius during the day and night respectively. One reason why tomato prices surged was the adversities faced by tomato farmers. This includes weak supply chains, low quality seedlings and a forced switch towards cultivating of sugarcane, maize and cauliflower. In Badal's own state of Punjab, since 2000, at least 1,674 farmers committed suicide in 22 districts. As per a Punjab University report, Muktsar is top of the list by a distance, with 825 suicides, whereas the number is 874 for the six others: Faridkot, Fatehgarh Sahib, Hoshiarpur, Patiala, Rupnagar and SAS Nagar. "Farmers are distressed. One of the major reasons is rising prices and environmental changes. Half the country suffers from drought and the other half from floods, and the first casualty are the crops. In Punjab, there never used to be such kinds of farmer suicides. It's basically because of false promises that were made to farmers in the run-up to the elections. The farmers have now figured out that it's not happening. But, while they were waiting for these things to happen, they stopped repaying on their loans to the banks. It's a catch-22 situation," she told Firstpost. But does she have an on-ground situation for the problem? "In the 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana', our government has allocated Rs 6,000 of infrastructure to be created in the next three years. This is a bouquet of seven schemes, out of which one is the backward-forward linkage scheme that will turn farmers into agro-producers and move them toward value addition. We'll offer subsidies of up to Rs 5 crore in the food processing sector," she replied. Finally, linking food wastage with the encompassing spirit of the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' is the new #NoWasteOnMyPlate campaign. "Seventy percent of what lies in the garbage dumps is food garbage and that adds to pollution," she informed. Besides, there are other issues like the anaerobic decomposition of organic material in flooded rice fields that produces methane. Last year, farmers were even held accountable for the alarming rise in smog in the capital post Diwali. In fact, 11 farmers from Bathinda and Barnala districts of Punjab were recently booked for burning paddy stubble against the orders of the district magistrate and penalties were imposed in 1,406 cases of stubble burning in Haryana. The farmers said crops are no longer harvested by hand so the plant is only cut from the spike, and thus cannot be consumed by animals. If the farmers are given only 15 days to sow the next plant alongside marketing and selling the first one, they'll be left with no option but to burn the spike. The target of doubling farmers' income by 2022 and reducing post-harvest losses requires not just strategic but a substantive effort in a country where over 58 percent of rural households depend on agriculture as their principal means of livelihood; where agriculture, along with fisheries and forestry, is among the largest contributors to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Millions of destinies are tied to a handful of policies and the manner in which Badal's ministry chooses to implement them. Years ago, when Mehbooba Mufti was struggling to build a strong alternative to National Conference in Kashmir, a portly man in his early 30s accompanied her to every part of Shopian, putting his own life on the line to help her build a connection with the people. That man, Mohammad Ramzan Sheikh, was among the founding workers of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party founded by the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. On Monday evening, three militants stormed into the home of the 52-year-old former sarpanch and father of five, dragged him onto the street in the Imam Sahib area of the volatile Shopian district and killed him. Nisar Ahmad Wagay, a Peoples Democratic Party worker from Wachi constituency, lives only a few hundred meters from Sheikhs home. When there was a commotion, everyone thought it had to do with braid chopping," Wagay said. "But then we heard shots being fired. And we knew something terrible had happened." "He took a risk when no one was ready to join mainstream politics," Wagay said. "He helped the PDP gain ground in Wachi." That made Sheikh an important grassroots worker for Mehbooba, who initially struggled to build a strong foundation for her party in south Kashmir. He would go campaign door-to-door for local MLAS," one party leader said. "He became a sarpanch but continued to work for the party in the grassroots." Wachi PDP MLA Ajaz Ahmad Mir said he spoke to Sheikh on the phone only minutes before he was killed. Mir said they discussed the works that were to be carried out in his constituency. It is not just a big loss for PDP as a party, but for me as well," Mir told Firstpost, breaking down over the phone. "It feels like I've lost a brother-in-arms." In the past three decades of insurgency in the Valley, hundreds of political workers have been killed by militants for representing India at the grassroots level. The National Conference, which ruled the state for decades, faced the brunt of these killings. Hundreds of its workers have been killed. When the Kashmir unrest broke out in 2016 and close to 100 people joined the insurgency, scores of party workers had to flee after militants broke into their homes, beat them with sticks and guns, ordered them to tender public apologies and dissociate themselves from mainstream politics. These 'disavowals' were recorded on mobile phones and spread across south Kashmir on social media. After the unrest, Sheikh was provided a hotel room by the state government. The killing of a prominent political worker like Sheikh, one belonging to the ruling party, will create even more problems for the politicians who have been trying to reconnect with the masses. Umer Wani, a youth activist with the youth wing of Peoples Democratic Party, said he remembered Sheikh well. "He often visited our office for addressing the needs of the people in his area," Wani said. Peoples Democratic Party spokesperson Waheed ur Rehman Para said he knew Sheikh for the past eight years. Para said that despite the fact that Sheikh was an important man and much sought after, he remained humble. He gave his life up for democracy. How will his death help anyones cause? Para lamented, speaking to Firstpost from New Delhi. "His killing is a cowardly act." "He was always there when people needed him, be it in police stations or government offices. He was always helping people," Para added. Mir said this incident shows how party workers are extremely vulnerable. We belong to that section of society which is prone to attacks even from the very people we help, he said. His death has created a deep void which will take years to fill. According to police, after Sheikh and his family were dragged out of their home by the three militants, Sheikh asked the gunmen to spare his life. Ambarkar Shriram Dinkar, SSP Shopian, said this led to an argument between the militants on whether to kill Sheikh or shoot him in the leg as a warning. One of the militants, Showkat Kumar alias Falahi, wanted to shoot Sheikh in the leg. His associates refused, which resulted in a scuffle. Kumar was shot dead by his associates," the SSP told a news agency GNS. On Tuesday, a mob reportedly attacked Sheikh's home and set it ablaze. Sheikh's family was rescued by the police. A day after a PDP activist was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian, a mob attacked his home and set it on fire, according to media reports. However, his family was rescued by the police. J&K: House of former Sarpanch Ramzan Sheikh(who was killed by terrorists yesterday) set on fire in Shopian. Family rescued by Police pic.twitter.com/8Qn4POXs9r ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2017 As the mourners were gathering at the residence of Sheikh, a mob mainly comprising of overground workers of Hizbul Mujahideen and other anti-national elements attacked the house, police said. Immediately, police swung into action and rescued the family members which included Sheikh's mother, Rafiqa, wife Nusrat Begum, brother Farooq Ahmed Sheikh, his two sons and two daughters. Terming it as inhumane, Director General of Police SP Vaid said, "The family had not even condoled the death of their loved one properly before such a senseless act instigated by terrorists was perpetrated on them in less than 24 hours." "Tears of two small daughters and two sons may not have dried off their cheeks and they had to witness inhumanity once again. It's a shameless act," Vaid said. He said that an FIR has been registered against the rioters. Strict action as per law will be taken against those involved in the incident, Vaid said. On Monday, militants had fired at Muhammad Ramzan Sheikh in Imam Sahib area of Shopian, a police officer said, adding he was taken to the hospital in a critical condition where doctors declared him dead, IANS said. "Three terrorists fired upon and killed PDP activist and former sarpanch Mohammad Ramzan in Shopian," a senior police official said. The slain militant was identified as Showkat Ahmad, a local resident, the official said. The attack comes a week after the killing of Hizbul terrorist, media reports said. On 9 October, in an encounter in Gatipora village of Shopian district, security forces killed one terrorist. The terrorist killed in the encounter was identified as Abid and was said to be a member of Hizbul Mujahideen. With inputs from agencies Mumbai: Providing a much sought after financial relief to debt-ridden farmers on the auspicious day of Dhanteras and two days before Diwali, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday announced that the state would start depositing money in the bank accounts of the loan waiver scheme beneficiaries from 18 October. In the first leg of the scheme, which comes after 110 days, around 10 lakh farmers will have the money deposited in their respective savings or current accounts. The scheme would be completed in four phases. "It will take another month and by 20 November all farmers who filled up the online form with essential documents will get relief through the Chhatrapati Shivaji Shetakari Sanman Yojana," Fadnavis said while meeting media personnel at his official residence Varsha bungalow at Malabar Hill in Mumbai ahead of Diwali. "The state government is doing hard to keep the Diwali deadline for the farmers' loan waiver scheme," the chief minister said. Fadnavis had announced the scheme on 28 June. "Whatever burden on the state, we will have to bear it. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Shetakari Sanman Yojana will be implemented in four phases and it needs minimum one month time to complete the implementation," the chief minister said. A senior official from the state cooperation department said that while the online process ensured a strict cross-checking process, the number of farmers seeking a waiver also went down resulting in savings of Rs 10,000 crore for the exchequer. "The total loan waiver amount will be reduced from Rs 34,022 crore to around Rs 24,000 crore. Earlier we announced 89 lakh farmers will be benefited from this scheme and around Rs 34,022 crore burden will be on the state. But till now we received applications from 77.29 lakhs bank account holders who took a loan from banks. So the total amount of Rs 34,022 crore would be less as the number of farmers has gone down by 12 lakh. However, 2.41 lakh farmers are yet to submit their Aadhaar number with the application rendering them ineligible," said the official. The final figure of farming families who applied for the scheme across the state is 56.59 lakh. In cases where more than one family members have applied for relief, only one would be eligible. "Twenty-five farmers will receive the loan-free certificate from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Guardian ministers in more than 25 districts will soon hand over similar certificates in their districts," Cooperation Minister Subhash Deshmukh told Firstpost. Loan waiver applications from class A to C government employees, representatives of Zilla Parishad, Municipal Council, councillors, MLAs and former office-bearers of local bodies were summarily rejected. The trouble with research results is that by the time they are published they are so outdated, they might as well be pointless. The Pew Research survey conducted across several nationsand India in particular regarding the performance of the Narendra Modi governmentis a perfect case in point. The survey refers to Modi's standing in April/May 2016. The numbers show an overwhelming trust in the Modi regime: 85 percent of Indians trust their government. However, interviewing a mere 2,464 respondents out of 1.2 billion people hardly makes for a convincing argument. The data is also around 17 months old, which makes it utterly irrelevant. And it cuts both ways: An unfriendly poll, based on a limited framework of lies, damned lies and statistics could have easily have led to a lower percentage, which would have been equally arbitrary and unfair. So much importance is attached to these report cards. One wonders why. Whether the government receives an A+ or a C- in various categories doesn't really matter as the numbers do not reflect the national mood today. Since the poll was conducted, the Modi chariot has chugged along without any real challenger. But the question is: Is Modi still held in the same esteem and unquestioning awe that he was in 2016, only two years after he took office. Now, that's something worthy of debate. As the leader, all too often you pay the price for others' acts of commission and omission. The disenchantment, if any, is at the ground level and is fed largely by unemployment, the financial confusion and uncertainty over exactly how much wholesome goodness there is in demonetisation, the hastily-imposed Goods and Services Tax and a general feeling of what the hell that is beginning to permeate the national fabric. Perhaps, this too shall pass. After all, sunlight filters in through strong leadership, stronger rhetoricfriends, Indians and countrymen, lend me your earsand the oft reiterated promise of a better tomorrow. But there is one major difference between then and now. India has become more divided when it comes to issues of caste, community and religion, not less. Which is hurting the commonwealth. Be it the merciless thrashing of the lower castes, attacks on those who eat beef, the intolerance towards having a 'good time', the bans on alcohol, a certain way of dressing, the 'us vs them' mentality propagated at breakneck speed by social media platforms is percolating to the man on the street and making the nation bleed. While these incidents may be spotty and isolated for now, going forward, the trend is dangerous. More and more, individuals are taking non-issues and making outrageous remarks with the intent to inflame passions. Perhaps there was the same sort of splintering in all those years of Congress rule, but in today's world these 'divisions' are louder, more in your face and thus come off as far more hostile. As a result, they are capable of doing far greater damage, which requires that all of us be more circumspect. Perhaps media houses ought to interview another 2,464 fresh respondents today and put the same questions to them. The answers might be intriguing. Modi might still be ahead of the class with 90 percent marks (and in need of tuition in one or two subjects). But at least such a survey will be something we can sink our teeth into. In July, the legislative committee of Dunn County approved a referendum question that is unprecedented in rural America. The question asked Congress and the U.S. president to nationalize health care. Its chances of success looked good ahead of the Nov. 8 referendum. Results of this referendum could make waves in Wisconsin. Sabarimala: Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Tuesday his government would exert more pressure and be more determined in its demand to the Centre to get the famed Sabarimala temple declared a national pilgrim centre. Vijayan, who is on his maiden visit to Sabarimala, said that the Centre has not accepted Kerala's demand even though the temple has all the features of a national pilgrim centre. Quoting Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president Prayar Gopalakrishnan, he said that besides devotees from India, people from 33 nations visit the temple during the annual pilgrimage season. "This shows Sabarimala has grown even bigger than a national pilgrim centre," he told reporters after reviewing arrangements for the three-month 'Mandalam-Makaravilakku' pilgrimage season of Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of the hill shrine. The season begins on 16 November. He said the state government was in the process of completing all necessary steps to construct an airport at Erumely, near Pamba, on the foothills of Sabarimala. The airport would improve connectivity to the temple, located in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Western Ghats. Braving a steady drizzle, the 72-year-old CPM leader had trekked up the eight-kilometre dense forest path to reach the Sabarimala hill top Monday night. "It took one-and-half-hour to reach the top...Initially I had some anxiety as I am not walking long distance now...But after starting, there was no difficulty...It was a good experience," Vijayan told reporters after the 90-minute walk. The LDF government, he said, was committed to comprehensive change through development at the shrine, which attracts lakhs of pilgrims from across the country during the festival season between November-January every year. Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran was among those who accompanied the chief minister to the top. AV Unnikrishan Namboothiri of Kodakara in Thrissur district was selected as Melsathi (head priest) of the temple for one year. Anish Namboothiri of Kollam was selected as Melsanthi for Malikapuram temple, the second major presiding deity at the Sabarimala. The head priest was selected from a shortlist of nine names drawn from the applications received following an interview. Travancore Devaswom Board president Prayar Gopalakrishnan and other top board officials were present on the occasion. Chandigarh: Unidentified assailants shot dead Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Ravinder Gosain on Tuesday in Punjab's Ludhiana, the police said. Eyewitnesses told the police that Gosain was shot from close range by two motorcycle-borne assailants in Kailash Nagar area. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Gosain was returning from an RSS shakha (daily training in the early morning) and was near his house when he was attacked. He was the Sangh Pracharak (regional missionary) at the RSS shakha in Ludhiana. Tuesday's killing is the fifth of a right-wing leader in Punjab in the last three years. The Punjab Police have failed to nab those behind most of the murderous attacks. Senior Punjab RSS leader Brigadier Jagdish Gagneja (retd) was shot by unidentified motor-cycle borne youths in a busy area of Jalandhar city on August 6, 2016. His assailants continue to be at large. Gagneja, Senior Vice President of the Punjab unit of RSS, was critically injured in the attack. He succumbed to his injuries a month later. Mumbai: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) has issued a notice to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) asking it to remove the red beacon installed atop the car used by Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar. The RTO swung into action after it was reported that Mumbai's first citizen was still using the red beacon on his car despite a ban on its use across the country. The BMC administration had installed a red beacon on the Innova Crysta car used by the mayor and the same was registered at the Tardeo RTO on 4 October, this year. The notice was issued to the executive engineer (transport) of the BMC to remove the red beacons on the mayor's cars, said a senior civic official. When contacted Mahadeshwar questioned if the RTO had the authority to send a notice to him. He said, "I have not received any such letter or notice. I don't know whether such a notification has been issued by the Union government." In a bid to do away with the VIP culture in the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the decision to do away with the use of red beacons atop VIP vehicles in the country from 1 May. The Union government had issued a notification banning the use of red beacon on the cars and subsequently, the transport ministry had amended the Central Motor Vehicles Act, 1989. Beacons are allowed only on ambulances and police vehicles. Meanwhile, the political opponents of the mayor tried to corner him over the issue and slammed him for his "obsession with the VIP culture". "Why is he so obsessed with the red beacon? He has become so obsessed with the red beacon that he has forgotten it is not a permanent feature for him. His beacon is illegal and RTO should act against him if he does not abide by the rules," Sanjay Nirupam, president of Mumbai Congress said. Earlier, Mahadeshwar's predecessor Snehal Ambekar too had refused to do away with the red beacon. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has removed the red beacon from his vehicles. After riot-accused BJP MLA Sangeet Som courted controversy yet again by calling the Taj Mahal a "blot on Indian culture" and terming Mughal emperors Babur, Akbar and Aurangzeb as "traitors", politicians from both the ruling party and Opposition parties reacted to his statement. Politics over this issue has begun as Som, during a visit to Meerut district, had also said the Taj Mahal was built by an emperor who had imprisoned his own father and had targeted many Hindus in his kingdom. In fact, Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife and was imprisoned till the end of his days by his son Aurangzeb. Here is how politicians reacted to Som's ridiculous remarks: Asaduddin Owaisi The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief reacted to the BJP MLA's remarks by saying, "Traitors also built the Red Fort. Will the prime minister stop hoisting the Tricolour?" "The government's priority should be providing governance. Governance has failed in Uttar Pradesh. So, they've taken to polarisation. There are hospitals where children are dying of lack of oxygen," Owaisi further said. He also said that since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Yogi Adityanath government are "blinded by hatred", they should carry an advertisement asking tourists not to go to the Taj Mahal. GVL Narasimha Rao Asked about the BJP's stand on Som's comments on the Taj Mahal, party spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said the party does not have any view on specific monuments and its members can hold whatever opinion they have. "But as far as the Muslim, Mughal rule in this country is concerned, that period can only be described as exploitative, barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance which harmed Indian civilisation and traditions immensely," he had told PTI. "Even in the present times, Mulim leaders such as Owaisi exhibit the same level of intolerance as Muslim rulers once displayed," Rao had said, in response to Owaisi's remarks. Mamata Banerjee "Its a systematic failure and a systematic political agenda to finish Indias values, culture and heritage. We strongly condemn it (sic)," News18 quoted West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee as saying. The day is not far when they would change the name of India, she further said. I don't know how they excluded Taj Mahal. They changed Mughalsarai's name but if they want to change India's name, where will we go? WB CM pic.twitter.com/RZIVOtg3YU ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2017 Reactions on Twitter Twitterati was quick to erupt over the over Som's foot-in-mouth remarks. 'Taj Mahal' is still one of the top trends on Twitter. Anyone who calls the Taj Mahal a "blot on Indian culture" has very clearly lost the plot. Vikram Chandra (@vikramchandra) October 16, 2017 'Taj Mahal a blot, built by traitors,' says BJP lawmaker Sangeet Som. He must be against marbles, having lost his. Ramesh Srivats (@rameshsrivats) October 16, 2017 Taj Mahal is such a non issue but politicians will continue to try and divide this country aur yaha twitter pe hum RW LW khelte rahe hai Tanmay Bhat (@thetanmay) October 16, 2017 Pumpkin of the day: Sangeet Som who says Taj Mahal is a blot on India! Wah Som!! Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) October 16, 2017 There was a historian P N Oak who used to claim the Taj Mahal was a Hindu temple. He was seen as a crank. Today he would be a minister Sidharth Bhatia (@bombaywallah) October 16, 2017 Sangeet Som says "we will change this history" -- Remember, that's one thing the #BJP can never accomplish. https://t.co/kKCMO0kXN1 #history Audrey Truschke (@AudreyTruschke) October 16, 2017 Your answer to any idiotic statement on Taj Mahal should be to retweet 5 best tweets from @TajMahal handle.#TajPeace Look @rajcheerfull pic.twitter.com/n9Rb4rGmQv Pankaj Pachauri (@PankajPachauri) October 16, 2017 With inputs from PTI New Delhi: Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani on Monday night targeted Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi after a media report claimed that absconding arms agent Sanjay Bhandari had "booked tickets" for his brother-in-law Robert Vadra. "Eagerly awaiting Rahul Ji's poetic explanation for #VadraTicketGate," Irani tweeted. Eagerly awaiting Rahul Jis poetic explanation for #VadraTicketGate Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) October 16, 2017 The minister's tweet came after Times Now claimed that "the absconding arms dealer Bhandari (had) booked business-class tickets for Vadra in 2012." Vadra's reaction to the report was not available. Times Now said Vadra and his lawyers had earlier denied having any links with the absconding arms dealer. Irani's swipe at Gandhi, asking for his "poetic explanation", came two days after the Congress leader targeted the government over the Global Hunger Index by citing a poem in a tweet. Irani had hit back then in a similar fashion. Gandhi had tweeted a news report on the Global Hunger Index along with a Hindi couplet by poet Dushyant Kumar which read: "bhookh hai to sabr kar, roti nahi to kya hua, aajkal dilli mein hai zer-e-behas yeh mudda (if you are hungry, be patient, what if bread is not available, the issue is being discussed in Delhi." Hitting back, Irani had tweeted: "Ae satta ki bhookh, sabr kar, aankde sath nahi to kya, khudgarzon ko jama kar, mulk ki badnami ka shor toh macha hi lenge (hey hunger for power, be patient, what if you don't have the numbers, you can collect selfish people, noise can be made to malign the country)." In another tweet, the Information and Broadcasting Minister had said, "Not surprising that in his keenness to run down Hon PM, Rahul Gandhi maligns the Nation." Along with this tweet, Irani posted a statement by Health Minister JP Nadda which read: "Facts vs Fiction on Global Hunger Index to enlighten people who are keen to run down our country by twisting facts." Thiruvananthapuram: Union Tourism Minister Alphons Kannanthanam said that the Taj Mahal was "India's pride" and core of tourism circuit, after a BJP MLA questioned the monument's place in the country's heritage. "Taj Mahal is India's pride. There is no doubt, we hold pride in Taj Mahal," he told a private news channel. He also said the government had "elaborate plans" for the historical monument. Stating that BJP's stand on the issue was very clear, Kannanthanam said, "Taj is core of tourism circuit. The UP government is developing new destinations and Taj is already hugely popular." Kannanthanam's comment comes a day after Uttar Pradesh BJP MLA Sangeet Som questioned the the 17th Century architectural marvel place in India's heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. Som, the party's legislator from Sardhana, also distorted history to say it was built by an emperor who had imprisoned his father and targeted Hindus. Announcing that he would visit Agra next week to review tourism schemes, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath said that the Taj Mahal was a historical monument regardless of the emperor who had built it. "It is immaterial as to who and how the Taj Mahal was built... It was made by the sweat and blood of Bharat Mata's sons," the chief minister said in Gorakhpur. Som's comments on the Taj Mahal had come after the Adityanath government reportedly omitted the 17th Century monument from an official booklet on tourist destinations. A day after BJP MLA Sangeet Som declared that the Taj Mahal was a "blot on India culture", Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath broke his silence on the issue and said that it does not matter who built it and for what reason. "It was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers." Adityanath also announced his plan to visit the monument on 26 October. The chief minister will reach Agra on 25 October, ANI reported. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to be in Agra on 25th October, will visit Taj Mahal and other monuments in the city. ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 17, 2017 #NewsAlert - Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister will visit the Taj Mahal on October 26 pic.twitter.com/MVY1ggss3a News18 (@CNNnews18) October 17, 2017 The visit by the chief minister, which comes a day after Som's remarks on the Taj, is seen as BJP's attempts at damage control. The Uttar Pradesh government found itself in a hard place when media reported that the government failed to feature the UNESCO world heritage site in their tourism booklet called 'Uttar Pradesh Paryatan-Apaar Sambhavnayen'. Som on Monday had called the Taj Mahal 'a blot on Indian culture.' Speaking to ANI, Adityanath referred to the controversy and said that the Taj Mahal is very important, especially from the perspective of tourism, "it is our priority to provide facilities and safety to tourists there (Agra)." It does not matter who built it and for what reason; it was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers: UP CM Yogi Adityanath #TajMahal pic.twitter.com/KSFU56KIRz ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 17, 2017 It is very imp for us, especially from tourism perspective it is our priority to provide facilities & safety to tourists there: CM #TajMahal pic.twitter.com/exOCYL0YgD ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 17, 2017 Speaking to India Today, Adityanath said that he does not agree with Som's remarks and Taj Mahal and Red Fort are both part of India's heritage. He further said that we should work to protect the monument because it was built by India's labourers. Responding to Opposition's remarks, he said that no one should focus on them. He added that his government is committed to serving the tourists visiting Agra. "Government has planned tourism projects worth Rs 370 crore under which schemes are meant for Taj mahal and the surrounding areas," he told India Today. Earlier, Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, the minister in charge of religious affairs and culture had also said that keeping out the Taj Mahal was necessary because the current government in Uttar Pradesh is "rashtravadi (nationalist)" and runs on "dharm niti" (religious policy). Opposition leaders, especially Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, criticised the Adityanath government in harsh words and called the chief minister a "mindless king". Akhilesh Yadav chimed in saying that Taj Mahal generates employment for a lot of people. The controversy gathered steam on Monday when Som, while talking about the removal of the Taj Mahal from the tourism booklet, said, "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from Uttar Pradesh tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? The creator of Taj Mahal (Shahjahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out Hindus. If these people are part of our history, then it is very sad and we will change this history." After Son's remarks, Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan said that not only Taj Mahal, even "Parliament house, President house, Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Agra Fort should be demolished for all these are signs of slavery." He added that not destroying such a symbol is a sign of political impotency. All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi responded to Som's remarks, saying "traitors also built the Red Fort. Will the prime minister stop hoisting the Tricolour?" Incidentally, Adityanath had himself said that the monument has no connection with India's culture in June this year. According to him, the UNESCO world heritage site in Agra isn't Indian enough. The context of his comments was regarding gifts and souvenirs given to foreign dignitaries visiting the nations. Railroading high-profile personalities because it sells a story is now quite common. In fact, it's becoming the norm to do so. It comes from the media's smugness, combined with the arrogance and the knowledge that nobody is going to take them on, regardless of what they say. The acquittal of Rajesh and Nupur Talwar in the Aarushi-Hemraj murder case is a recent example, especially now that it's being underscored how certain media channels "went after" the couple and played judge, jury and executioner. The spearhead and mascot of this new school of audio-visual journalism Arnab Goswami shepherded high-profile matrons, dowagers and so-called "society figures" into his studios, and pushed them to agree that his version was the truth. The Jaccuse texture of the talk shows were shrill, full of outrage and both barrels loaded with cheap shot. Guilty as hell was the television verdict and it swayed public opinion. Even the Supreme Court had to admonish the media to be more circumspect and not play footsies with the imaginatively circumstantial. Much the same had unfolded with the murder of Sunanda Pushkar, and the same gentleman's panels were activated, and the guilt of Shashi Tharoor was tossed around like a bean bag. The general conclusion by people who supposedly "knew" Pushkar was that Tharoor, erudite as he is, had to have a hand in the death of his wife. It's upsetting that Tharoor had to be cut to size because of his silver tongue. This opinion was aired by the same coterie of high society dukes and duchesses, and as envy leaked from every pore, they castigated and destroyed Tharoor's reputation with ill-concealed glee. And malice. On 9 May, 2017, Tharoor hit back at the Goswami effort to malign him. "A so-called journalist comes w/an agenda2disrupt the rest of the media in order to create attention for his channel. Not interested in truth," he tweeted. While the Talwars may desist from taking on the mighty media moghuls and put the terrible years behind them and move on, a person like Shashi Tharoor will likely go to war once the mists have cleared and he is given legal benediction. He will definitely be keeping his powder dry for a return match. This brings us to the main development: Pressure is building even if it is nascent on seeking financial restitution from the media as a direct fallout of this mad hurtle to hurt for TRPs and eyeballs and footfalls and all those clever buzzwords that have compelled enough of us to drop the basic tenets of journalism. Unfortunately, talk shows seem to have entered the realm of self-destruct largely because viewers themselves have gone into diminishing returns and forgotten that their intelligence is being insulted by the trivialising of the serious. But even more serious is this desire to profile an individual as a criminal and go for broke, making titillation, indignation and righteous wrath the priorities, rather than fact and truth. The danger faced now is that the rest of the media might have to pay a price for its relatively mild incursions thanks to the violent inroads made by these talk show hosts. Give or take a few years, everybody will begin to defend themselves against the fourth estate, as the number of the "victims" grows. Editor's note: Uttar Pradesh had been in the grips of a healthcare crisis long before Gorakhpur and Farrukhabad put the spotlight on the state's ailing public health system. The state's infant mortality rate is comparable to that of strife-torn African nations. There is one doctor for every 19,000 people; according to WHO, there should be one for every 1,000. This is the second of a four-part series that explores the state's policy-paralysis and places it against the larger backdrop of a systematic public health failure. Lucknow: Pintu Mahadev's three-year-old son Anmol died while in the ICU at the Nehru Hospital (NH), which is affiliated with the Baba Raghav Das (BRD) Medical College in Gorakhpur. Before being brought to NH, he was "treated" by a quack in his village. Anmol hailed from Bartha village of Deoria district. After being diagnosed with Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) at NH, he was taken to Dr Rakesh Yadav with complaints of high fever and breathing problems. After charging Rs 50 for the 'treatment', the 'doctor' gave him an injection and made him swallow a couple of pills but the fever didn't subside. Finally, after three days, Yadav told Mahadev to take Anmol to the Deoria district hospital, which promptly referred him to the BRD hospital. Anmol's died shortly after because of multiple organ failure. He could have been saved had he been taken straightaway to the BRD hospital but the 'quack' stood in the way till it was too late. Nevertheless, his family now blames the hospital for his death. Their main grouse is the "insulting behaviour" of NH doctors. "They treated us like animals," said Geeta Devi. Neither she nor Pinto blames Yadav. The crass behaviour of government doctors is one of the reasons why quacks have a field day in Uttar Pradesh's villages and towns. Such is the architecture of healthcare in Uttar Pradesh that quacks thrive despite handing out wrong diagnoses and misplaced prescriptions. It helps that they are available 24x7. As long as it's a passing fever, a stomachache or a headache, the quacks mostly compounders and chemists manage a "cure" but when confronted with AES or something as worse, they are totally at sea. According to Dr RS Shukla, chief medical superintendent of NH, more than 90 percent of the cases referred to the BRD hospital come after seeing a quack/unregistered doctor first. He said patients are brought here only when their condition gets so bad that the quack cannot carry on with the charade any further. Labelling them as "jhola-chaap doctors, he said quacks only have a rudimentary idea of medicines but are experts in the art of conning people. Dr RN Singh, who has worked with the BRD, said quacks flourish in rural areas only because of the non-availability of qualified doctors at Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) and Community Healthcare Centres (CHCs). They operate with impunity despite a total ban on quackery in the state. The Allahabad High Court had in 2015 ordered all non-registered medical practitioners to stop practising medicine. The CMO of each district was asked to keep a check on such doctors. But apart from the occasional raid, the government does little. Banned? They have an association On paper, quackery is banned in UP. But only on paper. There is a full-fledged quacks' association in the state. 'Dr' Prem Tripathi, president of Gramin Swasthya Seva Sangathan (an association of unregistered doctors/quacks in eastern Uttar Pradesh), said that they are the first "doctors" people take patients to and they are available 24x7 in rural areas. Proudly, he said that when someone falls sick in any village, he/she is not taken to a government hospital but straight to their clinics. He rued that they are looked down upon despite their service and nominal fees. He said the government punishes them and levies fines on them, and sometimes even seizes their clinics. "When even one case gets out of hand, we are hauled up for medical negligence," he complained. A 2016 report titled 'The Health Workforce in India' published by the World Health Organisation notes that almost one-third of those who claimed to be allopathic doctors in 2001 were educated only up to the secondary school level and 57 percent did not have any medical qualification. It was far worse in rural areas, where only 18.8 percent of allopathic doctors had a medical qualification. The Allahabad High Court had in October 2006 ordered the closure of clinics of illegal medical practitioners. Tripathi said many doctors were arrested in the state after that order and many are still fighting cases. He said the government should rethink its policy. "With proper training, we'll be an asset to society," he reasoned. 'Dr' RS Yadav, a quack practising in Ismailganj area of Lucknow for the last 25 years, told Firstpost that his father, a BAMS doctor, had trained him. He contended that a 2015 order by the state government allowed doctors like him to prescribe allopathic medicines. "I'm doing nothing wrong. This is a social service for me. My father died doing it. I treat more than 30 patients a day. The police pick me up now and then but I will keep doing this till I die," he said. Controlling measures The 'qualified' doctors are not amused. Dr Satish Chandra, chief medical officer of Mau, said he has formed a two-member team to identify unregistered doctors. He said the team will go to rural areas, identify such doctors and strict action will be taken against them. Dr Balvir Singh, additional chief medical officer of Farrukhabad, where more than 45 children died in August this year, said there are more than 300 quacks in Farrukhabad but they don't shut shop despite repeated action. According to law, punishment for running a clinic without the necessary qualification is a penalty of Rs 1,000. He said every quack hangs a shingle with fancy degrees, adding that it is not hard to get fake degrees and certificates with the help of Photoshop. He called them a threat to the patients. He shared how Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital admitted 211 cases of sick newborns this August and 145 of them had come through quacks. Dr Rajesh Jain, registrar of the Uttar Pradesh chapter of the Medical Council of India (MCI), said that data on the number of quacks practising in the state was not available. However, he said they were operating "in a very large number". In 2016, more than 60 quacks were booked in Moradabad after they were found to be chemists. Action was taken against them, said a report in Medical Dialogues. Dr Seema Sahai of National AIDS Research Institute said in a report that people prefer to go to community doctors as the first point of care. Even for treatment of convulsions, jhola-chaap or Bengali doctors are the preferred accessed. Doctor population At the end of the day, everything boils down to the number of qualified doctors. Dr Pushpa Jaiswal, a noted gynaecologist from Lucknow, said there is a dearth of doctors in India, especially in rural areas. She said the government should focus on healthcare infrastructure and deployment of more and more doctors at the primary level. She said the government should also provide training to such doctors who have been practising for long but with restrictions. "Work pressure on doctors is immense. Be it sub-centres, PHCs or CHCs, there is not more than one or two doctors at each one of them. For decades, nothing has been done to address this shortage," Dr Singh said. According to the figures available with MCI Uttar Pradesh, there are 78,476 doctors in the state while the numbers of Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani and Siddha Healing) doctors in the state is 89,756. According to the World Health Organisation's recommendation, the state should have at least 2.1 lakh doctors for its population of approximately 21 crore. Read Part 1: Chronic shortage of doctors, overdose of apathy have left govt hospitals comatose Read Part 3: Per-capita health expenditure of India's most populous state is half the national average (The author is a Lucknow based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters.) Hyderabad: A 45-five-year-old patient was among two who died of asphyxiation after a fire broke out at a private hospital in Warangal city of Telangana late last evening. Sources told the New Indian Express that the doctors, who were operating on Chetti Kumaraswamy of Chityal Mandal of Bhupalpally district, reportedly left the patient on the bed and fled from the operation theatre after "fire broke out in the operation theatre situated on the third floor at around 4.30 pm when the staff were replacing an oxygen cylinder". According to the report, Kumaraswamy was left unattended for over 30 minutes. He was later brought out of the operation theatre by the fire services personnel but by then, he died of suffocation. The doctors and paramedical staff of the staff have come under huge criticism following the incident. "As many as 193 patients, who were undergoing treatment at the hospital along with their attendants among others all totalling over 400 were rescued," a senior police official, who was part of the rescue operation, told PTI over the phone. Another elderly woman Mallamma, who was shifted to MGM hospital, died while undergoing treatment, the New Indian Express report stated. The police, however, maintained that no one died in the hospital where the fire incident occurred. Deputy Chief Minister Kadiam Srihari, who visited the hospital and supervised the rescue operation, has ordered an inquiry into the incident. Meanwhile, Warangal Commissioner of Police G Sudheer Babu said he has constituted a team involving officials from the police, fire and electricity departments to determine the exact cause of the fire. Over 400 people, including 190 patients, were rescued, police said. The district administration has constituted a committee to look into the cause of the accident and whether all fire safety guidelines were followed. The head of the states influential business lobby says Wisconsin should consider scrapping the slogan that has adorned its vehicle license plates since World War II: Americas Dairyland. Theres no indication the idea has traction at the state Capitol, and the states dairy lobby is opposed. The suggestion by Kurt Bauer, executive director of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, prods the state and its residents who affectionately refer to themselves as Cheeseheads to reimagine their identities in the 21st century. Such an image makeover could be linked to a $10 billion plan by Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn to build a manufacturing campus near Racine, Bauer added. Americas Dairyland has been on Wisconsin-issued vehicle license plates since 1940, as required by state law. Policymakers discussed discarding the slogan three decades ago, only to arrive at a new license plate design that retained it. The suggestion created a stir on social media Monday immediately after Bauer suggested it publicly at a Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce luncheon. Later Monday, Bauer clarified in a follow-up email that his organization perhaps the most influential lobbying group among Republicans who control the state Capitol would not lobby lawmakers in favor of the change, adding that its only a conversation starter. Bauer said the state motto, Forward, would be a good license-plate alternative. To me, Forward connotes resolve, indomitability and progress not a bad image to project to the rest of the world, Bauer said. The Americas Dairyland slogan reflects Wisconsins longstanding leadership in the U.S. dairy industry. The state ranks first nationally in cheese production and second, behind much larger California, in milk production. Amy Eckelberg, a spokeswoman for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, said in a statement that the mantra makes sense because no other single product has more of an economic impact in Wisconsin than milk. It has earned its right to be the states slogan on our license plate, Eckelberg said. But Bauer said many other exciting things are happening in the states economy, starting with Foxconns plans to build a liquid-crystal display manufacturing campus near Racine. To do so, the company is getting a state subsidy of as much as $3 billion, depending on how many jobs it creates in Wisconsin, under a law passed by the Republican Legislature and signed by Gov. Scott Walker last month. Bauer called Foxconn our mega-opportunity. It can draw people into the state, Bauer said. Bauer first floated the idea of a new license plate slogan in an April 2016 column titled Wisconsin Needs an Image Makeover for his organizations quarterly magazine, Wisconsin Business Voices. The column, which also mulled changing the state flag, said Wisconsins pastoral image and its Cheesehead residents may boost the states agricultural and tourist industries, and that we are clearly proud of our agricultural past. But Bauer wrote that the image also may hamper efforts to recruit workers in other industries. Thats especially true, he wrote, for businesses seeking to recruit millennials many of whom, he wrote, prefer to work and live in urban settings and in places they view as welcoming and tolerant. Our agrarian image may give them pause, Bauer wrote. Wisconsin needs to craft an image that accurately reflects and promotes our high quality of life and economic diversity. A Walker spokesman said in a statement Monday that the office has not received any contacts about changing the license plate slogan. This wouldnt be the first time Wisconsin mulled a new mantra for its license plates. But if the past is any guide to the future, the dairy theme may be around for good. A committee appointed by then-Gov. Anthony Earl appealed to residents for suggestions. Those submitted included Americas Northern Escape and We Like It Here, both of which were picked to be among five finalists on which state residents voted. After more than 111,000 ballots were cast, a new design was approved that retained the Americas Dairyland slogan, the Wisconsin State Journal reported at the time. The contest produced a design similar to the current one. Earl offered, but ultimately passed on, one of the most memorable suggestions: cow-shaped plates with the slogan: Eat Cheese or Die, a play on New Hampshires motto, Live Free or Die. Another suggestion that was discarded: Come and Freeze in the Land of Cheese. Editor's note: At least 18 farmers have died over the past three months in Maharashtra's Yavatmal district, allegedly owing to a toxic pesticide they were exposed to. Firstpost asked Karthikeyan Hemalatha to file a series of reports on their deaths and the practice of un-monitored pesticide use in this cotton-growing region. It has been a good year for rain in Maharashtra's Yavatmal, and the crops seem to have thrived. But, beneath the veneer of lush green, lurks the shadow of death. At least 21 farmers have died in Yavatmal in the last two months. Several hundred more have been admitted to hospitals for pesticide poisoning. While several factors have been put forth to explain the cause of the deaths, none of them implicates the state machinery. Instead, the blame has been laid squarely on the farmers; they were either not wearing protective gear, not following protocols on combinations of pesticides, or, worse still, they sprayed these toxic chemicals at heights above their heads, and the winds blew the mist right back in their faces. The latter is one of the most touted reasons behind the spate of deaths this year. However, these rationalisations and the ongoing blame game do not address the root of the matter, which, many activists say, is the controlled use of pesticides. All of the farmers who died or were hospitalised were in their fields, tending to their crops when these accidents happened. While senior bureaucrats and politicians maintain that the actual reason is being investigated, farmers, pesticide dealers and district level agricultural officers have come up with their own. "With good rains, some crops grew over seven feet. Farmers were spraying pesticides above their heads and the hot winds blew it back into their faces," said Pankaj Barde, agriculture officer in Yavatmal. Few others believe that it was the 'Chinese' sprayers that killed the unsuspecting farmers. "These sprayers are battery-operated and are very powerful," said Shamrao Madavi, the 65-year-old father of Deepak Shamrao Madavi, who died on 31 August. Dipak had used one of these 'Chinese' sprayers. "These pumps can spray an entire tank in 30 minutes, as opposed to manual pumps that take at least two hours per tank. The mist from the Chinese models, which have more nozzles, is very fine," added Shamrao. However, a fact-finding team consisting of grassroots NGOs (and this author) found that in six of the 18 deaths, manual pumps were used. "While the chief minister announced a ban on Chinese made, battery-operated power sprayers, which indeed appear to be dangerous in terms of the inhalation poisoning potential that they present, in six of the 18 cases of death, including two of the three we visited, old-style hand operated pesticide sprayers were used, read the report submitted by the team to the Union minister of agriculture Radha Mohan Singh and Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Suresh Jillewar of Balaji Krishi Kendra, a pesticide dealer in Jawada, has neatly stacked bottles of pesticides in attractive bottles with catchy names. The lingering scent of agarbatti in his store is a testament to his piety. As the smoke from the incense clears, you will find curiously named pesticides, including Godzilla, Xplode and Shark. Xplode is shaped like dynamite and is red in colour. One of the responsibilities of a dealer is to ensure farmers are educated on the right combinations when mixing pesticides, as well as to provide safety gear. "But no one listens to me," Jillewar said. "There is nothing more I can do than to tell them," he added. Farmers, growing desperate, do not adhere to these instructions. In most cases, it is the landowner who takes a call on the proportions and combinations to use. "In Dipak's case, he had used 20 millilitres of monocrotophos and 20 millilitres of Metasystox in a 30-litre tank, said Bahu Saheb Wankhede, the owner of the land on which Dipak worked. State officials say they are working full time to ensure that farmers have all the information on safe use of pesticides. "We have issued advisories to ensure such deaths can be prevented in the future," said guardian minister for Yavatmal Madan Yerawar. Mangesh Shravan Thakre from Kalamb taluka was one of the few who did use masks and gloves. Yet, he was admitted to the hospital for poisoning. "I did not know what pesticides I was spraying. Although I knew ingestion could kill me, I did not expect to fall dangerously ill by spraying," he said. He worked on someone else's farm to earn Rs 250 for spraying ten tanks full of pesticides. The 24-year-old has been engaged in this labour for the last six years. Other officials say humidity and non-adherence to safety procedures played a role in these accidents. "When the humidity is high, the spray gets mixed with sweat and enters the body," said deputy director of the district agriculture department RS Patil. He also said that rains were good this year, causing crops to grow taller than usual, suggesting that this is also a reason for the deaths. "Anyway, we are checking licenses of pesticide dealers and have taken action against some 13 shops for not adhering to protocols," he added. He did not elaborate further. Activists working on pesticide poisoning say that the government should not get into a blame game which ends up putting the onus on the farmers. "The state government should take the moral responsibility for these deaths and ensure that all toxic and moderately toxic pesticides are immediately banned," said a member of Thanal (an NGO that works on agrarian issues in Kerala), Sridhar Radhakrishnan. He has been working against pesticides and played a crucial role in the Kerala government banning 20 highly toxic pesticides in 2011. Yerawar said it would not be immediately possible to ban such pesticides. "Farmers are highly dependent on these pesticides. Such a step could lead to more farmer suicides. Who will be responsible for these deaths? Not only deaths but also the risk to nearly Rs 15,000 crores of farming income," he said. When this correspondent quoted Sikkim as an example, he said: "Sikkim's farming is equivalent to just half of Yavatmals. It is not possible," he added. On 13 October, the state government formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the reasons for the deaths. "We have experts from the agriculture and health department probing the causes. We will submit the results in three weeks time," said divisional commissioner and a member of the SIT, Piyush Singh. "We are looking at all angles including what type of pesticides were used, changing climatic conditions, whether proper protocols were followed while spraying and whether farmers used protective gear," he added. Activists, however, are not convinced. "In a country as vast as India, it is impossible to regulate pesticide use at the farm level. The only solution is to ban such toxic chemicals," said Radhakrishnan. "The state government will take action based on the reports of SIT," said Yerawar. Read Part 1: Blame games galore as toxic pesticides continue to claim lives Read Part 3: Data scarcity on pesticide poisoning major hurdle in finding corrective measures The author is a freelance journalist based in Bangalore. He covers issues relating to the environment, climate change, agriculture and marine ecology. He was selected as a fellow with the Dag Hammarskjold Fund for Journalists in 2015 to cover the UN General Assembly and international politics. By Sharanya Gopinathan Harvey Weinstein is the current gold standard of sexual harassment there are whispers about other Harvey Weinsteins, think pieces on the next Harvey Weinstein, and our media has hinted at Indias own Harvey Weinsteins. But why do we need a Weinstein in these Make in India times, when we have our shuddh desi RK Pachauri? On 1 March 2015, the Delhi police filed a chargesheet against Nobel Prize winner Rajendra Kumar Pachauri, the director of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), accusing him of offences of sexual harassment, stalking and outraging the modesty of a woman, based on the complaint of a former researcher at TERI. Soon after these reports came out, 12 others spoke out through lawyers and the media about their own experiences of harassment by Pachauri. It emerges from these accounts that Pachauri, like Weinstein, allegedly seemed to carry on his harassment through a systematic abuse of his power, and did so over decades. The similarities between the sexual harassment allegations against the Miramax founder and TERI director would be laughable if they werent so telling. Looking at the parallels, and particularly what seems to be their MO of sexual predation based on survivors accounts, you realise this doesnt just 'happen' there are frameworks and tools in place making sure that powerful men get away with it. Immediately after the Weinstein allegations, theres been discussion in the American media about the fairness of one of these tools: Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). NDAs are legal contracts that define information that can be shared between two parties, and what must be restricted from everyone else. Its a standard part of employment contracts worldwide, including India, and such a clause is partly why Weinsteins employees found it hard to speak out. In cases of sexual harassment in America, its common for powerful men to buy their victims silence through NDAs before the cases ever reach court. These are agreements in return for a sum of money that the victim cannot pursue a civil case against the harasser, nor speak about what happened. Theyre not framed as admissions of guilt by the accused, but have been called (usually by the accuseds lawyer) an attempt to buy peace. Women often resort to NDAs in the face of their harassers influence and pressure, and in the uncertainty of receiving justice through the long, humiliating legal process. As one former Miramax employee told the New York Times about Weinsteins legal tricks It felt like David versus Goliath. The guy with all the money and the power flexing his muscle and quashing the allegations and getting rid of them. In India, you cant make this kind of agreement about sexual harassment. Our system sees crimes as dire violations against society that cannot be compensated with money, which is why you cant file a civil case in most instances of violent crimes, including violence against women. You also cant contract away your right to approach courts in the event of a crime. So, Indian men turn to other legal tools, like arbitrary court orders, injunctions and even defamation suits against their accusers. Theyve proven to be hugely effective in frightening and silencing women, and while several men involved in sexual misconduct controversies like Mahesh Murthy and Manik Katyal seem to have tried this, it looks like RK Pachauri has mastered the art of legal hopscotch better than anyone. On 17 February 2015, a reporter at the Economic Times heard of the FIR that one of Pachauris victims had attempted to file. The reporter called Pachauri for a quote, which was the first Pachauri had heard of it (oh, to have been a fly on the wall!). Pachauri managed to secure an emergency meeting at a judges house that night, after court was closed, to say his devices had been hacked (the cops eventually figured that was a big fat lie), and to (successfully) secure an injunction on the story based on this lie. The stay lasted a day, but it's still amazing to see how quickly a man like Pachauri can wriggle around within the system, when women have been waiting for years to just get their day in court. Even more brazenly, Pachauri has swung his legal bolas at the women who supported the survivors. Two of his victims approached senior advocate Vrinda Grover with their accounts, and she requested police to record their testimonies in the ongoing case to show his predatory patterns and character. After months, Grover made a statement to the media detailing the latest victims account, and her own repeated representations to the police to record other victims testimonies. In retaliation, Pachauri filed a defamation case against Grover for Rs 1 crore in a move that the countrys leading activists called bogus and damaging to the pursuit of justice. They also hinted that the lawsuit seemed to be a SLAPP, a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation; one intended to silence critics by burdening them with the cost of a legal defense until they abandon their criticism. He also managed to secure a court order making it mandatory that all media houses publish a disclaimer alongside their coverage of the allegations against him that said, in any court the allegations have not been proved and they may not be correct. It isnt just the legal tools powerful men have (remember when TVF founder Arunabh Kumar responded to the allegations of sexual harassment against him by threatening legal action against the survivor?), but other factors too. Both scandals, Weinstein and Pachauri, were called their industries worst kept secrets (Arunabhs was too, actually). Everybody knew about their behaviour, and either encouraged them (Weinsteins staff were reportedly involved in the process of procuring women), turned a blind eye or were afraid to challenge them. They also operate under frameworks of massive power, especially when they're leaders of their own institutions. Reporting sexual harassment by the top boss to the internal complaints committee can seem daunting (and useless: TERIs response to the first victim who spoke out against Pachauri was reportedly to do nothing). Its been said that the internal attitude towards the founder, and the fact that the top appointments in HR are probably made by the companys head, make it extra difficult for the victims to speak up internally, or to continue in the organisation if they do. In Pachauris case, the complainant left TERI, while Pachauri was promoted. Weinstein's case threw everyone for a loop because he was a known champion of liberal values he was all for womens sexual freedom and had donated money to the Clinton foundation (which actually doesnt prove anything). Pachauri, too, surprised Indias liberals men who work against climate change and win Nobel Prizes don't find themselves embroiled in cases of sexual harassment or so people thought. Pachauri even tried to take advantage of having the international audiences ear and gave a pitiful interview to The Guardian where he tried to make it sound like he was the victim of a conspiracy to bring down climate change researchers. The similarity ends at their reactions to the allegations. Pachauri ran from pillar to post crying conspiracy, extolling his virtue and innocence to make people feel bad for him, and attempted get back at those who supported his victims by lobbing cases at them and ducking. Weinstein, however, has reportedly been seeing a gender sensitivity advisor for a year, and when these allegations broke, released an apology in response. He didnt actually admit to anything and its not a real apology because he doesnt admit to the allegations, but its a damn sight better than an alleged harasser who continues to play the victim. The many unlikely similarities between the two cases only show us that sexual harassment is about power, and hierarchies of power, that exist all over the world. They arent the aberrations of some bad eggs, but entire industries, laws and systems working to abuse, oppress and silence women. It's an uphill battle and its easy to feel daunted and overwhelmed by it. But women, through global responses like #MeToo, are clearly standing together in equally overwhelming ways, and its wonderful, because now, more than ever, women realise that they have a chance against the Man. The Ladies Finger (TLF) is a leading online womens magazine On Sunday, Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) national general secretary Saroj Pandey stated that if her party workers continued to be killed in Kerala, "eyes of the attackers will be gouged out". Her comment comes just as BJP's 'Janaraksha Yatra' which is protesting the killing of its workers, allegedly by CPM workersends Tuesday. Speaking at a programme in Kumhari area of Chhattisgarh's Durg district, she said, "Our party has strength of 11 crore members across the world.. .more than 300 workers in Kerala who were 20, 22 and 25 years of age were murdered. Everybody has right to present their thoughts. But as far as the politics is concerned, I believe politics should not be done like this," she said. "We have government (at the Centre) and based on our numbers (in Lok Sabha), we can dismiss such (state) governments," she added. Responding to this, the CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan accused the BJP of trying to incite riots in the state, according to a report in The Times Of India. Congress also condemned her statement and said that "any kind of violence is not justified in democracy." "A senior woman politician should not make such kind of comment. It has exposed the real face of her party and its mindset. Any kind of violence is not justified in democracy," state Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel told PTI. Meanwhile, netizens took a lighter approach. Twitteratti were seen uploading photographs of themselves as well as actors wearing sunglasses with the hashtag #GougeDa. When average malayali hears Sanghi goons threatening to gauge out our eyes. #GougeDa pic.twitter.com/lVookfgHNl Heisenberg (@redandbluemagic) October 16, 2017 Malayalis, on hearing that BJP neta wants to gouge their eyes: "Vaadaa.. come on da.. #Gougeda " pic.twitter.com/o2naaLqI1M The Last Caveman (@CarDroidusMax) October 16, 2017 So BJP's crimemaster gogos want to gouge Malayalis' eyes out? Just try. #GougeDa pic.twitter.com/sOYs0RfzKY Aditya Menon (@AdityaMenon22) October 16, 2017 With inputs from PTI CPMs youth organisation DYFI has organised a march in Kozhikode on Tuesday where participants will wear goggles, according to a report by the Indian Express. Patna: Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar on Monday sidestepped questions about strain in his relations with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the latter rejected his plea for central university status for Patna University, saying people were free to draw their own conclusions. "Media and people are free to draw their own conclusions. I have nothing to say on this," Kumar, who is also the Janata Dal (United) national president, told reporters after his weekly Lok Samvad programme during which he interacts with public. Speaking at an event to celebrate 100 years of the Patna University on Saturday, Kumar had sought central university status for it in keeping with public sentiment. However, responding to Kumar's plea, Modi, who promised Rs 10,000 crore and autonomy to 20 universities 10 public 10 and private to enable them to compete globally, said, "I have come here with an invitation to PU and all universities of India to take up the challenge. It is much bigger than what central university status can offer." This was seen by many as rejection of Kumar's request and media reports suggested that the ties between the two leaders, who came together for the first time after the Bihar chief minister joined hands with the BJP in July, had hit a rough patch. A tweet by JD (U) spokesman Pavan Verma over announcement of dates for Gujarat Assembly polls was also seen as an indication of cold vibes between the two parties, which came together after over four years of estrangement. "The EC must not only be impartial but also seen to be so. Why have the dates for Gujarat elections not been announced? We need credible answers," Verma had tweeted this morning. The tweet placed Verma in the company of Opposition parties, which have accused the BJP of pressuring the Election Commission to delay the announcement so that its government could announce sops for the state before the model code of conduct kicks in. Kumar, however, steered clear of the controversy and said, "I have not seen his tweet, how can I comment?" Asked about the Congress's reported plans to elevate Rahul Gandhi as its president, Kumar said, "He is in any case the de facto leader of the party. If we look at the party's history, any other contender for the post seems unlikely. This is an internal matter of that party." The chief minister, however, took a swipe at the Congress for the continued suspense over Gandhi's elevation, saying "We had heard of this (Rahul becoming Congress president) even when we were together in the Grand Alliance." When asked whether such a move could boost the Congress's prospects in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Kumar said it was too early to say anything but as of now there was no serious challenge to Narendra Modi. Kumar also dismissed RJD supremo Lalu Prasad's charge that he had decided to break away from the Grand Alliance after his name cropped up in Srijan scam so the Centre saved him. "They (Lalu and the RJD) should look at themselves and ponder over where they stand today and why. They are only reaping the fruits of what they have sown," Kumar said. Thiruvananthapuram: BJP President Amit Shah on Tuesday hit out at Kerala's CPM-led LDF over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsibility for the "killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers." Addressing party workers at the Puthrikandam maidan here on the conclusion of the party's 15-day 'Janaraksha Yatra' in the state, Shah alleged that the 13 workers were killed after the present government came to power in May 2016. "I am asking the Kerala chief minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsiblity for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power." "Chief minister saheb, if you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology," he said. Shah said if the Marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of independence, "they are mistaken." "I will like to tell CPM that it is not possible," the BJP chief said. He also asked Vijayan whether people had given him the mandate for elimination of BJP/RSS workers in the state. Earlier, Shah walked with party workers for about two kilometer from the Martyr's column at Palayam to Putharikandam maidan, near the famous Padmanabhaswamy temple. The BJP chief waved and acknowledged greetings from thousands of BJP workers as he joined the yatra led by state party president, Kummanam Rajasekharan. He also paid tributes to party workers who had lost their lives in political violence in the state before addressing the public meeting. Shah had flagged off the yatra at Payyannur in Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPM and BJP-RSS workers, on 3 October. The padayatra was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. Earlier, Rajesekharan denied allegations by the ruling CPM and opposition congress that the march was to create communal divisions in the society. He also said the yatra had received 'tremendous' support from all sections of the people. Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan said the yatra was to save' the people of the state. The padayatra had criss-crossed 11 districts in the state with four chief ministers, including Yogi Aditiyanath of Uttar Pradesh, senior party leaders and Union ministers taking part in the high-pitched campaign against the ruling LDF. Remarks by BJP leaders also kicked up controversies as the march progressed. Adityanath wanted Kerala to learn from Uttar Pradesh's record in health care and Goa chief minister Manohar Parikkar alleged that Kerala was being ruled by 'rogues', triggering counter remarks from the CPM. Shah had skipped the march through Vijayan, the chief minister's home town, in Kannur district, as he had to rush to Delhi for an important meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah had walked about seven km from Payyannur to Pilathara in the district during the rally. Representatives of the NDA partners in the state Tushar Vellapally of BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena), Tribal leader CK Janu of Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, PC Thomas of Kerala Congress (Thomas) were among those who attended the public meeting. Auto refresh feeds In Bhubaneswar, BJP workers protest against Kerala govt and CPM over killings of BJP/RSS workers Political observers fear that the provocative slogans raised by the BJP at the yatra and the speeches by senior leaders could mar the peace. The CPM cadres are angry with the Janrakasha Yatra as it seeks to project Kerala as a land of terror and their party as perpetrator of the terror. The sentiments against the saffron party aggravated after Amit Shah announced a two-week padayatra in all state capitals from Wednesday. Read more here . "Love jihad is a dangerous trend. The Supreme Court has already passed an order on it and the NIA is investigating it," said the leader. He further urged the Kerala government to take a serious look at cases of 'love jihad' in the state. While leading the Janaraksha Yatra in Kerala, Yogi Adityanath also raked up the issue of 'love jihad' and said that it was a "dangerous trend", according to News18 . India Today reports that Amit Shah is expected to be back in the state on Thursday and will rejoin the Yatra. Yogi calls the Yatra a mirror for communist governments in Kerala, West Bengal and Tripura Amit Shah was supposed to address an 'intellectual meet' and hold a preliminary meeting about the organisation of the Parivarthana rally in Bengaluru on 2 November, according to The Hindu. However, these programmes have been postponed indefinitely due to "unavoidable reasons", Sanjeeva Matandoor, president, Dakshina Kannada unit of the party told the press on Tuesday. BJP president Amit Shah's has cut short his visit to Kerala and Karantaka after having to leave for New Delhi "This Janaraksha was started on 2 October in north in Payyanur and today ends in south (Kerala) in Thiruvananthapuram. In 15 days, 140 kilometer was covered by this rally," BJP chief says in Kerala. He added, "CPM, you can do as much violence you want, but you can't stop BJP's ideology." "Why have we started this yatra after 70 years of independence? When our party workers work for the benefit of Kerala, they are pushed into the valley of death, says Shah. "I thank every one who joined from across the nation in Janaraksha Yatra. I will always be grateful to the people of Kerala for their support," says BJP chief in Kerala. Shri @AmitShah joins massive protest on the streets of Trivandrum against leftist violence. LIVE at https://t.co/kdFTgf0RFO #JanaRakshaYatra pic.twitter.com/HngUbnFoge Our powerful Leader Sri Amit shah and man behind the yatra with strong hold joins from palayam @BJP4India @AmitShah @Kummanam @smritiirani pic.twitter.com/VGkHOBZNqG BJP National President Shri @AmitShah met the families of BJP/RSS workers who were brutally killed by CPI(M) in Kerala. #JanaRakshaYatra pic.twitter.com/HQtyFtiWo6 "This Janaraksha was started on 2 October in north in Payyanur and today ends in south (Kerala) in Thiruvananthapuram. In 15 days, 140 kilometer was covered by this rally," BJP chief says in Kerala. He added, "CPM, you can do as much violence you want, but you can't stop BJP's ideology." "Why have we started this yatra after 70 years of independence? When our party workers work for the benefit of Kerala, they are pushed into the valley of death, says Shah. Did Kerala CM will take moral responsibility of BJP/RSS karyakartas being killed by CPI(M) : Shri @AmitShah https://t.co/GjbAFjSRbO Pinarayi Vijayan ji more u will sling the violent mud, more the lotus will bloom: Shri @AmitShah in Trivandrum #JanaRakshaYatra pic.twitter.com/751Re9aqNn "I thank every one who joined from across the nation in Janaraksha Yatra. I will always be grateful to the people of Kerala for their support," says BJP chief in Kerala. Kerala Chief Minister is scared of after the huge support of BJP's #JanaRakshaYatra : Shri @AmitShah https://t.co/5hiBRGoARF "If Left parties have ceased to exist in this country, then it is due to political violence," says Shah. Thiruvananthapuram: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah will join the high-pitched 'Janaraksha Yatra' against the political violence allegedly unleashed by the CPM on Tuesday, when the two-week-long campaign will conclude, party sources said on Monday. The padyatra, flagged-off by Shah on 3 October from Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPM and BJP-RSS workers, was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. The sources said Shah would walk with party cadres from Pattom to the Puthrikandam maidan, the venue of the valedictory of the two-week-long yatra. A host of BJP leaders, Union ministers and BJP chief ministers, including Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, have participated in the yatra at different stages. It's led by BJP state chief Kummanom Rajasekharan. The BJP has lashed out at the CPM over the political violence in Kerala, alleging that their party cadres were attacked and killed by ruling CPM workers. They had also alleged that instances of political violence increased whenever the LDF came to power in Kerala, ruled alternatively by Congress-led UDF and LDF. It was also alleged that the state has become a fertile ground for 'jihadis'. The ruling CPM has rejected the charges and said that BJP-RSS activists attacked its workers instead. The CPM has also alleged that the BJP was attempting to create tension in the state by unleashing violence. Bengaluru: After BJP's attack, Congress on Tuesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should get "any investigation" done into any allegations against Robert Vadra, son-in-law of party chief Sonia Gandhi, to find out if there was any "wrong-doing". Congress spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said Vadra has been going through "witch-hunting" for the last 41 months. He was talking to reporters on a claim in a media report that Vadra had "links" with fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. "As far as any allegations against Robert Vadra are concerned, we will only say, Modiji has been in power for 41 months." "They have a government in Haryana and Rajasthan, and by all means, conduct any investigation that you choose, and come to a conclusion through a free and fair process of law of any wrong-doing," Surjewala said. He said in "witch-hunting" of 41 months and multiple commissions of inquiries, the BJP has not arrived at a single conclusion of a violation of any law, rule or regulation, either in Haryana and Rajasthan. "Allegations were levelled in these two states, based on which they came to power," the Congress spokesman added. A national news channel on Monday had claimed that "the absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari (had) booked business-class tickets for Vadra in 2012." Citing the media report, the BJP on Tuesday asked Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul to break their "silence" on it. Addressing a press meet in New Delhi, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the silence of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul will be construed as acceptance of the charges against Vadra. Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani on Monday had targeted Rahul Gandhi with her tweet which said, "Eagerly awaiting Rahulji's poetic explanation for #VadraTicketGate." Meanwhile, Times Now and Republic news channels were not allowed by the Congress to cover Surjewala's press meet at the party office. Asked why the two channels were barred from covering the press conference, Surjewala said he understood the sentiments of the media but journalism should "show the mirror of truth, not becoming the mirror of BJP." He went on to add, "When you carry out pre-meditated, biased and fixed agenda as agents of the ruling party, then some semblance of journalism dies. Journalism is not about being about Congress or BJP, about being SP or JDU or any other political party. Journalism is about asking me the difficult question." The Congress spokesman said, "Journalism is also asking me and telling me where I have gone wrong. Journalism is also about questioning like you did to our speaker (of Karnataka Assembly) and Chairman of the Legislative Council, and a correction was made by honorable Chief Minister (Siddaramaiah)." Surjewala was apparently referring to Siddaramaiah issuing directions for curtailing funding of celebrations to mark the diamond jubilee of Vidhana Soudha, the seat of the state legislature, amid reports about a proposal for extravagant celebrations which had raised a controversy. New Delhi: Union minister and Member of Parliament from Darjeeling SS Ahluwalia on Tuesday warned the West Bengal government of a severe backlash if the state chose to "physically eliminate" people in a bid to douse the fire in its hills. Hitting out at state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Ahluwalia said, "Bullets, jail, violence will not solve the problems in hills". The minister of state for drinking water and sanitation said he feared that Gorkha Janmukti Morcha leader Bimal Gurung, who is in hiding, might be targeted by the state police. "I fear for his life," the MP said. "The conspiracy of physical elimination will not be tolerated in a democratic setup," Ahluwalia said, reacting to alleged police atrocities in the Darjeeling hills. A police team conducting a raid in a bid to capture Gurung was allegedly fired at by Gurung's supporters on Friday. A sub-inspector was killed and four policemen were injured. Banerjee had on Monday said, without taking names, that an MP was helping to spread violence in Darjeeling and its surrounding areas. She had said the BJP was allowing the hills to "burn for the sake of a seat". Ahluwalia accused the Bengal government of "lacking the initiative for conducting political dialogues" and said the problem (in the hills) could only be solved through mutual trust and understanding. "In my 27 years of political life no one has ever raised any question on my conduct," he said. As an MP, he was duty bound to listen to the grievances of the people of his constituency, he said, adding that talking to the constituents was not a crime. "For me, the people of Naxalbari or Siliguri are as important as the people of Darjeeling or Kurseong," Ahluwalia said. Mumbai: Taking a dig at the Shiv Sena over its performance in the recently held Nanded-Waghala City Municipal Corporation polls, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said it was time for introspection for those who were laid low by the electorate. Fadnavis said that until now, the Congress and the Shiv Sena were holding the reigns of power in that civic body. "The Congress was first, Sena second, MIM third, fourth NCP and BJP was last with just two seats and three percent vote share. "This years polls saw BJP win six seats and its vote share rose to 25 percent, whereas the Congress vote share rose from 38 per cent to 46 percent," Fadnavis said, speaking to reporters at his official residence 'Varsha'. He said that although the Congress won 73 seats, the rise was of just 25 seats. "However, it is time for introspection for those who have been laid down by the electorate," he said. Fadnavis announced that from 18 October, the state government will begin depositing credit money into 10 lakh accounts of farmers in the first phase of its Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Shetkari Sanman Yojana. "Eight percent of the farmers will get the loan waiver amounts credited into their accounts by 15 November," he said. "The rest 20 percent applications are such where the Aadhar numbers have not been provided or linked or submitted along with the application forms," he added. He said that about one crore registered applications were received. The 10 lakh farmers will get Rs 1.50 lakh loan waiver amount deposited in their accounts. Fadnavis said that in 2016 the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 10 percent and in 2017 too it is expected to be around 8 to 10 per cent. Replying to queries on effect of loan waiver on the state's economy, Fadnavis admitted that there will be some pressure on the finances, but added that the impressive GDP figures has maintained the fiscal space, within which the government will have to raise funds. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was addressing the nation in Gujarat's Gandhinagar on Monday, switched from Hindi to Gujarati half way during the course of his speech to speak on GST (goods and services tax), his audience suddenly narrowed down to the local Gujarati trading community. Facing the traders battered by his government's twin back-to-back disruptions, demonetisation followed by GST, Modi seemed to disown the GST implementation pain saying the tax reform was a 'collective decision'. "It is not BJP alone, all political parties, including the Congress party, and all states are partners in this (GST) decision. The Centre is only a 30th part in the entire GST Council," the prime minister said. First, let's understand the context of Modi bringing up the GST issue in Gujarat. It is the hardships faced by the industry, particularly small traders, during the initial months of the roll out of the grand indirect tax reform. Industry, across sectors, has suffered due to the uncertainty in rules with respect to pricing of goods and services, filing returns and the impact on demand across certain verticals, where prices went up in the aftermath of the GST roll out, even though the new tax regime was supposed to have a neutral impact on prices. The government, however, quickly swung into action a few days before by lowering the tax rates across certain items and simplifying the filing process for small shop owners. Besides the discontent among the trading community with respect to GST, after the demonetisation shocker, the impact was felt in the overall growth numbers too, prompting even the Reserve Bank of India to take note of the GST impact on GDP. In the last monetary policy, the RBI said, "The implementation of the GST so far also appears to have had an adverse impact, rendering prospects for the manufacturing sector uncertain in the short term. This may further delay the revival of investment activity, which is already hampered by stressed balance sheets of banks and corporates." But the critical fact is none of these challenges the importance of GST. Also, it is fundamentally wrong to compare GST effects on small traders to that caused by demonetisation. GST is a progressive reform step that India needed to embrace at some point, sooner than later. More than a decade was lost in the political tug-of-war after the idea was first discussed in Parliament. In a vast country like India, which is more like a Union of small countries with varying culture and geography, bringing in an uniform indirect tax structure wouldn't have been a cakewalk at any point, let alone find a perfect time. Even the problems in the GST roll out phase are not unexpected, only a trial-and-error-method will fine tune the entire process which might happen in a year or so. The Modi government deserves credit for pushing for political consensus to a point of success and ushering in the new tax regime the only big bang reform so far by this government. Analysing Modi's speech in this context, there two things that the prime minister should have rather avoided in his speech: One, Modi should have bravely owned up the flaws in the GST implementation instead of passing the burden to the Congress. After all, it is his government that made the biggest tax reform possible and shouldered the massive task of building a uniform tax regime that would aid the country in the long-term. By accepting his flaws, Modi would have rather sent a strong message to the nation that he is not only determined to take the reform process ahead but also the challenges which come with it. Had the Congress been at the Centre, even they wouldn't have done anything dramatically different on the GST roll out process and probably would be in the same position. By passing the blame to others, Modi lost an opportunity and became just a party among many pushing the GST bandwagon. In fact, he was in a way even ensured that Congress gets an equal political credit in future when GST falls in place after the initial pain phase. Secondly, even though Modi was in Gandhinagar to campaign for Assembly election, by choosing to speak in Gujarati on the crucial issue of GST, Modi left out a large audience of entrepreneurs outside the state who, too, would have been anxious to hear from the prime minister. Remember, GST woes aren't confined to Gujarat's trading community, but the whole of India. It is no way a local issue intended only for the local audience. In doing so, Modi lost an opportunity to reach out to the small traders across the country which was a bit surprising, particularly at a time when the whole nation is feeling the heat of GST transition. What was obvious in Modi's speech was nervousness building up within the BJP about its poll prospects especially in the present economic situation. During the speech, Modi reminded the crowd about how he and his party overcame difficult situations in the past too and why that show will repeat. Throughout the speech, Modi appeared defensive, particularly on GST, against the principal political opponent unlike his typical political attacks. That is nothing short of an acknowledgement within the BJP ranks that all is not well for the party at the current juncture. Thiruvananthapuram: Sixteen Union ministers, four chief ministers, one deputy chief minister, 25 MPs and MLAs and 10 national leaders, most of them from the north, joined the Janaraksha Yatra organised by the BJP to achieve its mission of 'conquering' Kerala. But the managers of the 15-day march from Payyannur to Thiruvananthapuram led by state BJP chief Kummanam Rajashekharan are busy taking stock of the damage some of these leaders have done to the partys cause instead of evaluating the success of the yatra as it concluded in the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. BJP national president Amit Shah joined the rally on its last leg from Marty Column at Palayam to Putharikandam Maidan. He walked along party cadres in the three-km stretch and addressed a public meeting. Though the march was organised as a build-up for the Lok Sabha elections in 2019, the party may have to spend a lot of time to undo the damage these leaders have done. The yatra sent out a negative message in the first leg itself when Shah quit the march mid-way. The retreat was interpreted in political circles as a sign of his disappointment with the low turnout, infighting within the party and its failure to take its allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) along. The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) used this to declare the yatra as a flop. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath gave enough ammunition to the partys critics the next day when he sought to compare the healthcare in his state with that of Kerala, which has received international acclaim for its health indices and harped on his pet theme -- love jihad. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan countered Adityanath well by thanking him for letting the country know about the states achievements in the health sector. The marchers abandoned the topic after Pinarayi made a comparison between the Infant Mortality Rate in Kerala (10) and that of Uttar Pradesh (43). Newly-appointed Union minister from the state Alphons Kannanthanam made himself a target of attack by harping on Prime Minister Narendra Modis toilet vis-a-vis petrol price philosophy. He was trolled extensively in the social media for making such a statement in the 100 percent defecation-free as well as consumer state, where the rise in petrol and diesel prices will have a huge impact. The opposition led by the Congress sought to seize the opportunity by organising a day and night protest on 5 October and a hartal on 16 October against the increase in prices of petrol, diesel and cooking gas and other anti-people policies of Modi government. The biggest damage to the yatra, however, came from BJP national secretary Saroj Pandey, who kicked off a controversy by threatening to gouge out the eyes of CPM workers if they continue to show their eyes to her party workers in Kerala. The outburst at Durg in Chattisgarh district on Sunday is being described as a call for violence and against the yatras focus on the CPM violence. A film actor has lodged a complaint with the police against the BJP leader. Yatra captain Kummanam struggled a lot to wriggle out of the controversy when newsmen cornered him during the course of the march in Thiruvananthapuram district. He tried to defend his party colleague by saying the statement was a strong plea to the CPM to end violence. Goa chief minister Manohar Parikkar, who joined the Janraksha Yatra at Kollam on 15 October, ruffled feathers by calling Pinarayi and his team rogues. CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan has taken a strong exception to the comment and sought his removal for the offensive remark. Most of the leaders, who participated in the march, have tried to portray Kerala in a poor light. But what has aroused concern in political circles is the extension of the malicious campaign to New Delhi and other state capitals. The yatra turned out to be big a feast for the social media with the users flooding Twitter and Facebook with sarcastic comments against leaders, who participated in the march, and their statements. They ridiculed attempts by the leaders to portray Kerala in a bad light. Political observers feel that the negative portrayal of the state may boomerang on the BJP since it has hurt the pride of the people. NM Pearson, a political analyst based in Kochi, said that the pride factor could go against BJP in the coming election. The LDF and the UDF are sure to evoke the feelings during their yatras in the next few weeks. Pearson told the Firstpost that the yatra could have struck a chord with the people if it highlighted the issues concerning them. Instead, it laid sole focus on Red and Jihadi terror that most people have viewed as exaggerated claims of the BJP. "People will not take BJPs charges against the CPM seriously as they know that the saffron party and the RSS too are equally responsible for the culture of violence prevailing in the northern parts of the state. Both sides have lost an almost equal number of lives in the violence going on in Kannur district for more than four decades," he said. Pearson said BJPs attempt to describe the jihadi terror as a threat to the Hindus in the state may also have no takers in the state. Even Hindus may not share the partys perception. He has pointed out the result of the Vengara by-election, in which the BJP suffered an erosion in its vote share, as a clear indication of the rejection of the BJP claim by the Hindu voters in the constituency. Though more than 30,000 out of 1.7 lakh electorate at Vengara are Hindus, the BJP candidate there could not even muster a quarter of the Hindu votes. The 5,728 votes that the party candidate has polled at Vengara is less than its 2016 tally of 7015 votes. Pearson views this as a sure sign that the Janraksha Yatra had failed to consolidate the Hindus behind BJP. Jacob George, a senior journalist-based in Thiruvananthapuram, said that the BJP was trying to make inroads in Kerala by communally dividing people as the saffron party has done in northern states. The communal engineering will not succeed in Kerala, where people belonging different communities have been living in harmony for centuries, he said. "The BJP has failed to read the mind of Keralites. The strategy worked out by the BJP national leadership to win 12 seats in the coming Lok Sabha election will not work. It has been worked out by people who are unaware of the ethos of the people in the 100 percent literate state," Jacob said. "The yatra will not help the BJP to further improve its poll performance. Both the LDF and the UDF have solid vote banks in the state. BJP cannot easily penetrate into it. The 15 percent votes the party has secured in the 2016 election is the optimum that BJP can get in Kerala. To climb further is very difficult," he said. However, the BJP has termed the yatra as a big success. Party general secretary MT Ramesh said that huge turnout at the rallies held as part of the Janaraksha Yatra was a sign of rising support base of the party. "The CPM workers had gone to every house at Pinarayi and persuaded the people to stay indoors when the yatra passed through the area. But several hundred people came out of their homes in the Marxist bastion to wish the yatra a success," he said. He said that the criticism against the yatra from both LDF and UDF leaders clearly showed that the yatra had an unsettling effect on them. They are rattled by the new ground that BJP is making in the state. The next election will say whether the Janaraksha Yatra was a success or failure. But it has certainly helped the BJP to galvanise its cadres, who were demoralised by the medical college and counterfeit currency scams. New Delhi: The Janata Dal United JD(U), an ally of the NDA, was left red-faced on Monday after party's national general secretary Pavan K Varma criticised the Narendra Modi government at the Centre and the Election Commission regarding the EC's decision to not announce election dates for Gujarat. The JD(U) distanced itself from Varma's comments, saying these views had "nothing to do with the party's official line". "The party does not approve of the views expressed by its leader Pawan Varma. We have full faith in the impartial functioning of the Election Commission, which is a constitutional body," the JD(U) said in a statement released by secretary general KC Tyagi. The statement said Varma was "not authorised" to make such a statement and that the "expressed views are in his personal capacity and have nothing to do with party's official line". Earlier in the day, diplomat-turned-politician Varma had questioned the Election Commission's decision to announce election schedule for Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections, but not for Gujarat, saying that "credible answers were needed". "The EC must not only be impartial but seen to be so. Why have the dates for Gujarat elections not been announced? We need credible answers," said Varma on Twitter. Varma, also the national spokesperson of the JD(U), hit out at the central government over India's falling ranking in the Global Hunger Index. "India's steep fall in the Global Hunger Index from 55 in 2014 to 100 in 2017 begs the question who is the 'fastest growing' economy working for?" he asked. The Election Commission has drawn sharp criticism from the Opposition for announcing dates for Himachal Pradesh, which goes to polls on 9 November, without giving the schedule for Gujarat whose Assembly term ends on 22 January. The JD(U) faction led by Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar formed a coalition government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state after severing ties with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress. In July this year, Congress leader Ashok Gehlot tried to address a gathering of textile traders in Surat demanding exemption from GST. To his surprise and embarrassment, he was not only greeted by slogans of "Modi, Modi" but also forced to beat a hasty retreat. This episode needs a bit of deconstruction in the context of the impending elections in Gujarat, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again decided to re-enact a role who just can't step out of: the chief minister of the state. Gujarat is a hub of traders, who based on anecdotal evidence, the mood on the ground and the inchoate nervousness within the BJP are upset with the government. The government's disastrous demonetisation gambit, followed by the decision to implement GST, has hurt their businesses. Political logic, common sense and survival instincts suggest they should be eager to punish a government that has made their lives difficult. Yet, when a team of Congress leaders tried to talk to them, they chased them away, reiterating their faith in the prime minister. This, essentially, sums up the mood in Gujarat. Yes, people are upset, anger is brewing among traders, Dalits and Patidars. But, they do not expect the Congress to assuage them, find a solution. They are looking only at Modi to listen to their grievances, find a solution. Modi, for them, is the final court of appeal whose attention they are trying to seek. Modi, being the shrewd politicians he is, understands this. So, he has virtually turned the clock back, morphing into the chief minister of Gujarat, ready to work for the people who trusted him for over a decade. As The Indian Express pointed out on Monday, he is fighting for a fourth term in the state. In his speech on the final day of the Gujarat Gaurav Yatra at Gandhinagar on Monday, Modi unrolled his "I am the problem, I am the solution," strategy when he tried to mollycoddle the Gujaratis through a series of sops and clever talk, the foundation of which was his characteristic semi-admission of the GST being a source of pain for markets for which the Congress was equally to be blamed. "All political parties of this country, including Congress, and the central government take collective decisions on GST. Parliament does not take a decision on GST, governments of all political parties do that. It includes Congress governments in Punjab and Meghalaya. Central government forms only the 30th part of the entire council that takes decisions on GST. So, Congress does not have the right to spread lies on GST because they are partners in the decisions on GST." This is, perhaps, the closest you will see Modi accept a mistake. He followed this up by saying his government would try to sort out some of the problems unleashed by the GST roll-out, a characteristic signal that he was ready to look at some of the mess his government has created by alienating traders. Apart from trying to sell himself as the interpreter and healer of maladies, Modi, is back again to his favourite theme that of Gujarati pride. Correcting historical grievances, imagined and real, has for some reason become a feverish desire among a large section of voters. This obsession with avenging perceived slights from the past mostly to others has often made the electorate forget their own present and future, often to the advantage of the BJP. So, Modi doesn't miss any opportunity to incite this latent desire of voters to find someone else responsible for their current plight and problems. So, he went dagger and swords at the Congress, blaming it for hating Gujarat and its people. (Another standard spiel that unspools in every state before elections). He blamed the Congress for ignoring the state's development and humiliating its leaders. He slammed the Congress for conspiring against every stalwart from Gujarat, including, of course, himself. The high point of his rhetoric being the allegation of spreading "canards" about Morarji Desai's favourite drink. (Incidentally, Desai himself was quite blase about his favourite morning cuppa, not shy even to talk about it in front of even the Americans). Does the Congress have the firepower to counter Modi's "I am Gujarat" and "Fight for your asmita" pitch that he is watering for the elections? At the moment, it is gasping for answers. The problem with the Congress is that while Modi is roaring and punching in his corner, the Congress doesn't have anybody to take him in the Gujarat ring. Though Rahul Gandhi is sparring with him, in the absence of a local heavyweight, the fight appears cruelly one-sided. A sort of Floyd Mayweather vs some faceless amateur. Something as farcical as a Gehlot vs Modi. You don't need a betting man to know who the Gujaratis would put their money on, even if they have less of it because of demonetisation and GST. Lucknow: The electoral alliance between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party might fall apart in Uttar Pradesh with both the parties likely to go it alone in the upcoming urban local bodies' polls in the state. The two parties had come together ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections to stop the saffron surge in the state. "The pre-poll electoral tie-up was for 2017 UP Assembly elections. This does not mean that it continues for the urban local bodies' elections or 2019 Lok Sabha polls," Samajwadi Party spokesperson and MLC Sunil Singh Sajan said. His remarks came against the backdrop of senior Congress leader and the party's general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad recently stating that his party would go it alone in the urban local bodies polls. "Our party will contest the upcoming urban local bodies polls on its own," he had said at a function in Aligarh on Sunday to mark the birth centenary of former prime minister Indira Gandhi. Reacting to Azad's comments, Sajan said, "The issues and prevailing situation decide whether to opt for an electoral tie-up or not... We are ready for the urban local bodies' polls." The Samajwadi Party leader said the party's coordination with the Congress was good and in some ways their ideologies also match. "But, this does not necessarily mean that we will opt for an electoral tie-up. We will fight the urban local bodies' polls on our own," Sajan said. The notification for the local body polls is likely to be issued before the end of this month. In the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections held earlier this year, the Congress contested in 114 of the 403 seats winning only seven, while the Samajwadi Party fielded as many as 311 candidates, and won 47 seats. In over a dozen Assembly seats, both the SP and the Congress were in fray. Expecting that a split in opposition votes would help the BJP, its spokesperson Dilip Srivastava exuded confidence that his party would register an impressive win in the urban local bodies' polls. "The BJP has started Vikas Parv, which will disseminate information pertaining to various developmental schemes and projects of the Centre in the last three-and-half years," he said. "It will also spread information about the developmental works undertaken and achieved in the six-months of the Yogi Adityanath government in the state," Srivastava said. The Aam Aadmi Party too has jumped in the fray and has released its first list of 19 candidates for Lucknow Municipal Corporation election. According to a release issued by the party, Priyanka Maheshwari is its nominee for the post of Lucknow mayor. Gandhinagar: Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani on Tuesday asked Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi to break his silence over a media report which had claimed that Robert Vadra was having "links" with fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. Citing news reports, Rupani alleged that Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law has emerged as the "face of crony economy". "The news reports showed proofs to establish that arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, who was also involved in money laundering, bought air tickets for Vadra. Why an arms dealer bought tickets for Vadra? Some emails also suggested that Vadra and Bhandari used to operate a firm between 2009 and 2014," Rupani said at a press conference. "This is a clear case of crony economy, where people misuse their power for financial benefits. Vadra is the face such crony economy," he added at the joint press conference with Gujarat BJP president Jitu Vaghani. Vadra has not reacted to the media report. Rupani asked Gujarat Congress leaders and Rahul Gandhi to explain their side and come clean on the entire issue. "Of late, Rahul Gandhi has become very active on social media. He is also visiting Gujarat more often. But, why is he silent on this issue? Why even Gujarat Congress leaders are silent? Rahul Gandhi must tender an explanation about Vadra's links with an arms dealer," said the chief minister. Citing the media reports, Vaghani claimed that the opposition party now stands exposed. He went on to add: "It is now clear that Congress is a corrupt party. The media has exposed how some people close to the then (UPA) government had links with an arms dealer. While Congress leaders are in the habit of raising small issues, why are they silent on such an important issue?" Congress spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala on Tuesday said in Bengaluru that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should get "any investigation" done into any allegations against Vadra to find out if there was any "wrong doing". PTI A city court has sought an 'action taken report' from the Delhi Police on a complaint about the online sale of ashtrays portraying a naked woman by three e-commerce majors. The complaint was filed against online shopping portals Amazon India, eBay and Shopclues and their Managing Directors for allegedly selling an ashtray in the shape of a nude woman. The case came up before Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Babru Bhan, who sought an action taken a report (ATR) from the Delhi Police on the plea for lodging FIR against them. The court directed the police to apprise it if any action has been taken on the complaint. "SHO, Subzi Mandi police station is directed to file an action taken report stating whether any complaint has been made by the complainant in the police station and if any action has been taken on it," the magistrate said. The court, while seeking the ATR by 30 October, also asked if as a result of investigation, any cognisable offence was made out against the accused or a FIR registered. The complaint lodged by advocate Gaurav Gulati has sought registration of FIR for offences punishable under sections 107 (Abetment of an offence), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 293 (sale of obscene objects to young person) of the IPC, besides relevant provisions of Indecent Representation of Women Act and the Information Technology Act. The complaint alleged that as per media reports published on internet on June 6, the online shopping portals were "selling nude woman figurine ash-tray which was indecent." "The ashtray ... drew severe criticism on social media. The ashtray was sold at a price of Rs 4,441... " the complaint alleged. tech2 News Staff Google Photos is one versatile application, provided it has the right permissions from you. It's facial recognition feature has been there since launch, letting your sort out your family and friends with ease. In its latest update, Google Photos has extended this facility to your furry friends as well. Yes, Google Photos can now recognise your pets. You no longer need to type in 'dog' or 'cat' in your Photos search box to pull up photos of your pet dog or cat. You can simply label them by name now and all the photos with the said pet will be grouped under the name. Just like you do with humans. In a pun-heavy update on its blog, Google says, "In addition to now grouping your pets, Google Photos fur-tunately already has a few other features to help you honor your paw-some pet. You can search by breed to see photos of your Poodle or Maine Coon or search by emoji to see all those or photos." Once you have labelled your pet, Photo Assistant gets to work and will most likely have made a movie starring your pet as well. Google has even added pet-inspired songs to which you can set your photo-story with your pet to. Identifying pets from the same breed could be an issue though. So if you have two Labradors, then Photos may group them under one name only. According to Buzzfeed, a Google spokesperson has said that if you have a number of pets of the same breed then you will need to help the Photos app with identifying who's who. The update is already rolling out in multiple countries on both Android and iOS. If you have a pet who you want to give a pride of place in the Google Photos album, try out the feature. Nimish Sawant ICICI Bank launched its artificial intelligence-powered chatbot, named iPal, in February 2017. Eight months since the launch, the bank has released some numbers: Six million queries answered and 3.1 million customers have interacted with the bot, which managed a 90 percent accuracy rate. According to ICICI Bank, the fact that its AI-led chatbot service is offered both on the mobile app as well as on its website makes it the first bank in India to do so. According to some numbers released by the bank, iPal addresses close to 1 million queries a month on the website and the app. It is available 24x7 and is available to domestic as well as NRI customers. Speaking of the eight-month completion of iPal bot's service, B Madhivanan, chief technology & digital officer, ICICI Bank spoke to media persons to answer our queries. According to him, AI is the next step in the evolution of banking services which started with phone-banking with call centre support, followed by internet banking and mobile banking. "Unlike structured queries, using iPal is more like an interaction. In case the chatbot does not have a resolution to your query, you can go to a live human operator. The chatbot will learn how the human operator resolved your query to become more intelligent. On the web platform, we have also integrated the chatbot with the search module, so that the bot can learn your search habits and provide better experience," said Madhivanan. According to Madhivanan, the services offered by iPal are divided into three broad categories, most of which are mapped to the iMobile app. The first category involves the FAQs which are simple questions which you may want to ask your bank executive for which there are simple, structured answers. You ask the queries and the bot will give you the correct response, and it learns along the way. The second category involves financial transactions, wherein you can make funds transfer from person to person, pay your bills or recharge your mobile phone bills using queries. Finally, the last category involves helping people discover new features. These are simple how-to tasks such as how to reset your ATM Pin or something along those lines which is a bit more evolved and is like interacting with your bank executive. When asked about local language support for its natural language processing feature with iPal, Madhivanan said that the bank is not rushing into this just yet. "We are cognizant of the importance of local languages. Our 'Mera iMobile' app supports 12 languages. We have not initiated our smart chatbot iPal with multiple language functions just yet. The most obvious languages seem to be Hindi and Tamil, but we will see how it progresses." On the topic of integrating iPal chatbot with existing voice assistants such as Cortana, Siri and Assistant, the digital officer said that it was definitely in the works. "Yes, it is a natural progression. We want to explore our ability to interface with multiple voice assistants and that certainly presents different challenges," said Madhivanan. But when one talks about artificial intelligence, the immediate question that pops up is how it will affect existing jobs. Madhivanan said that 80 percent of the calls to their call centres were about simple things which could be resolved through straight-forward processes. According to him, the idea of using an artificial intelligence powered chatbot was to reduce the mundane load on its human resources and redeploy them. "AI reduces load on mundane queries, which gives them more time to handle higher quality queries. While we may not be able to recruit more people, we are certainly not laying off people due to this there is a lot of redeployment happening. At least for the next 4-5 years the chatbot will not be a primary usage," said Madhivanan. tech2 News Staff In what appears to be an ongoing discussion between software giant Microsoft and Dutch privacy watchdog, the Netherlands Data Protection Authority (DPA) over how Windows 10 collects user data, there is now a possibility that Microsoft could change the way it collects data for everyone. While the discussions are still on, there seems to be a possibility that Microsoft would not tweak it privacy policy in the Netherlands, but make bigger changes to the way it collects 'telemetry data' globally in the coming Fall Creators Update. What the DPA is referring to in its report, is not just the details of the data is being collected, but how Microsoft did not inform users about the type of data it uses, and for what purpose it uses the same. Part of the official statement on the DPA website reads, "The company does not clearly inform users that it continuously collects personal data about the usage of apps and web surfing behaviour though its web browser Edge, when the default settings are used." The Dutch authority claims that Microsoft needs to obtain valid consent. "Microsoft needs to obtain valid consent from users to process their personal data. Therefore, people must be well informed and need to know precisely to what they say yes. This is not the case. The information that Microsoft provides in the installation screen of the Creators Update about the different choices for data processing, falls short. It is not made sufficiently clear that at the full telemetry level, Microsoft continuously collects data about the usage of apps and web surfing behaviour through Edge, including for example news articles that have been read and locations entered into apps. Through the chosen approach Microsoft also does not obtain unambiguous consent. Microsoft uses opt-out options. On installation the telemetry level is set to full by default and the user is asked to accept the offered settings. Also, it is switched on by default that Microsoft may use the telemetry data to show personalised advertisements and recommendations in Windows and Edge, and that app developers may show personalised ads in apps. If a person does not actively change the default settings during installation, it does not mean he or she thereby gives consent for the use of his or her personal data." reads the official statement by the Dutch Data Protection Authority (DPA) . Microsoft has however, taken its own stand, claiming that Windows 10 is already compliant under Dutch law. "This year we have released a new privacy dashboard and several new privacy features to provide clear choices to our customers and easy-to-use tools in Windows 10. Next week, we have even more privacy improvements coming in the Fall Creators Update. We welcome the opportunity to continue to work with the Dutch DPA on their comments related to Windows 10 Home and Pro, and we will continue to cooperate with the DPA to find appropriate solutions." reads the statement by Marisa Rogers, Windows and Devices group privacy officer. The Netherlands are host to over 4 million active devices that run the Windows 10 Home and Pro software. Reuters Qualcomm Inc wants to hit Apple Inc where it hurts most: iPhone sales in China one of its biggest global markets where most of its flagship smartphones are made. The U.S. chipmakers legal gambit to ban sales and manufacturing of iPhones could cripple global supply of Apples most important product, legal experts say, but many believe Qualcomm faces a stiff battle to get there. Instead, Qualcomm may be looking to frustrate the tech giant through a lengthy legal fight that could last years in China as it seeks to gain leverage in the firms global standoff over royalty payments it demands, intellectual property lawyers said. Qualcomm said this week it had filed the suits in Beijings intellectual property court, claiming patent infringement against Apple. If successful Apple could be blocked from selling or manufacturing some iPhones in China. The two firms are fighting on multiple fronts around the globe from the United States to Europe and Asia, but the China case is particularly thorny because the iPhone is almost entirely made in the country by contract manufacturer Foxconn. Effectively if they get an injunction you would have a worldwide injunction that would block (Apple) exports from China, said Erick Robinson, director of patent litigation for Beijing East IP and a former director of patents for Qualcomm. China is still unpredictable and Apple has a ton to lose. Apple has antitrust suits against Qualcomm in the United States as well as nearly a dozen in the United Kingdom, Japan, China and Taiwan alleging that Qualcomm is charging unfair prices for its technology. In return, Qualcomm is seeking injunctions against Apple in the United States with complaints to the International Trade Commission as well as filing complaints in Germany. Now it has set it sights on China. But putting Apple away in China is a tough act, lawyers said. Apple suppliers employ hundreds of thousands of people in China, so authorities may be wary of hitting jobs with a ban on production. More to the point, lawyers said it was unlikely either firm would allow the case to get to an injunction, speculating that Qualcomms main aim was to increase its leverage over Apple at the negotiating table over any final settlement. A Shanghai-based intellectual property lawyer said it would take a year or two to get to the point where the threat of injunction was imminent, but that eventually, it would get too close for comfort. The consequences are just dire if (an injunction) were to actually happen, the lawyer, who asked not to be named because Qualcomm and Apple were clients of his firm, said. That is very significant leverage Qualcomm would have over Apple. Smartphone Target The chipmaker has not made public which iPhone models would be included, but Christine Trimble, a spokeswoman for Qualcomm, said it would cover the iPhone 7. The patents include power savings technologies and Apples Force Touch feature in newer iPhones. The patents were asserting in these complaints are non-cellular wireless technologies that Apple uses in its iPhones, Trimble told Reuters. The patents are a few examples of the many Qualcomm technologies that Apple is using without paying Qualcomm. Apple, which has said previously it pays fair and reasonable rates for the patents it uses, said Qualcomms claim is meritless. Regulators around the world have found Qualcomm guilty of abusing their position for years. This claim is meritless and, like their other courtroom maneuvers, we believe this latest legal effort will fail, said an Apple spokeswoman in Shanghai. Chinese regulators fined Qualcomm $975 million in 2015 over antitrust violations. Taiwans Fair Trade Commission said last week it would fine the firm $774 million over similar issues. Mutually Assured Destruction Lawyers said Apple would likely file more unfair competition or anti-trust cases against Qualcomm in Chinese courts, or seek to get the relevant patents invalidated by the Chinese patent office. The iPhone maker could also seek to have the patent cases held up by the Beijing IP court while the patent invalidation decision was being made. The cases would then go through a series of hearings at the Beijing court before any injunction. Given the known circumstances and the parties, an injunction is unlikely to be forthcoming in this type of situation, said Elliot Papageorgiou, head of intellectual property at Clyde & Co China. Last year, a Beijing court banned Apples iPhone 6 and 6 Plus models, saying they were too similar in design to the Shenzhen Baili 100C smartphone. The ruling was overturned this year in favor of Apple. Injunction requests, often used to boost leverage in negotiations, have not proved hugely effective in patent litigations, however. By the time a court makes a ruling on such cases, the products involved in the suit often become outdated and defending firms introduce new models that do not use disputed patents. The reality is both parties should get together and avoid mutually assured destruction, said Beijing-based Robinson, who estimated it would be 18 months before any potential injunction. Apple has been giving Qualcomm trouble in the United States and in China; Qualcomm has the patent portfolio to completely block the manufacturing chain for Apple if thats what they want to do. AFP A Russian court on Monday fined the popular Telegram messenger app for failing to provide the country's security services with encryption keys to read users' messaging data. A Moscow court imposed an 800,000-ruble fine (about $14,000/12,000 euros) over Telegram's failure to "provide law enforcement agencies with information" about its users and their messages, TASS state news agency reported. The free instant messaging app, which lets people exchange messages, photos and videos in groups of up to 5,000 people, has attracted about 100 million users since its launch in 2013. Telegram's self-exiled Russian founder Pavel Durov said in September the FSB had demanded backdoor access. When Telegram did not provide the encryption keys, the FSB launched a formal complaint. Durov wrote on his VK social media page Monday that the FSB's demands are "technically impossible to carry out" and violate the Russian Constitution which entitles citizens to privacy of correspondence. He invited lawyers who would be interested in appealing against the decision to contact Telegram. According to a scan of the FSB complaint posted online by Durov, the FSB sent a letter to Telegram in July demanding "information necessary to decode users' sent, received, delivered and processed electronic messages". The fine is the latest move in a dispute between Telegram and the Russian authorities as Moscow pushes to increase surveillance of internet activities. In June, Russia's state communications watchdog threatened to ban the app for failing to provide registration documents. Although Telegram later registered, it stopped short of agreeing to its data storage demands. Companies on the register must provide the FSB with information on user interactions. Starting from 2018, they must also store all the data of Russian users inside the country, according to controversial anti-terror legislation passed last year which was decried by internet companies and the opposition. Telegram now has 10 days to appeal Monday's decision. If an appeal fails, the company will be given a grace period to hand over its encryption keys after which it could be blocked in Russia. Asked about a potential block of the service, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "As far as I know... there is no discussion of a block at this time." tech2 News Staff It looks like Galaxy S8 users may soon be able to enjoy the Portrait Mode effect on their device. This comes after Samsung mentioned that they may be working on a new software update to add the feature on the S8. For the uninitiated, Portrait Mode or Bokeh effect blurs the background while keeping the subject in focus, creating a DSLR-like photo. This news comes in response to a query posted by a Samsung S8 user who inquired if the Portrait Mode effect would be coming to the S8 after the Pixel 2 device included the feature with a single camera setup on the back. Samsung's response was pretty vague claiming that there was 'no information' regarding the query. But, the customer support stated in the same response that it was possible that portrait mode feature will come with the next software update in S8. Portrait Mode effect was earlier only associated with devices packing a dual camera setup including OnePlus 5, Samsung Note 8, iPhone 7 Plus and 8 Plus, Honor 8 Pro etc. However, Google has managed to recreate the same effect on its Pixel 2 smartphone using a single rear camera and software modifications. Therefore it is entirely possible to see the Portrait Mode effect being recreated using software enhancements in high-end devices like the S8 or even the HTC U11. If Samsung does indeed plan on bringing this effect to the S8 camera in its next software update then the wait shouldn't be that long. In addition to the 'Portrait Mode', Samsung also announced a price cut for Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus devices. Samsung S8 Plus will see a drop in price by Rs 6,000 revising the final price to Rs 58,900 while the S8 will see a drop in price by Rs 4,000 revising the price to Rs 53,900. We are unsure if the price drop is permanent of temporary considering the festival season but potential users planning to buy these devices should act fast. AP Silicon Valley is a uniquely American creation, the product of an entrepreneurial spirit and no-holds-barred capitalism that now drives many aspects of modern life. But the likes of Facebook, Google and Apple are increasingly facing an uncomfortable truth: it is Europes culture of tougher oversight of companies, not Americas laissez-faire attitude, which could soon rule their industry as governments seek to combat fake news and prevent extremists from using the internet to fan the flames of hatred. While the US has largely relied on market forces to regulate content in a country where free speech is revered, European officials have shown they are willing to act. Germany recently passed a law imposing fines of up to 50 million euros ($59 million) on websites that dont remove hate speech within 24 hours. British Prime Minister Theresa May wants companies to take down extremist material within two hours. And across the EU, Google has for years been obliged to remove search results if there is a legitimate complaint about the contents veracity or relevance. I anticipate the EU will be where many of these issues get played out, said Sarah T. Roberts, a professor of information studies at UCLA who has studied efforts to monitor and vet internet content. Objectionable content is the biggest problem going forward. Its no longer acceptable for the firms to say that they cant do anything about it. How closely to manage the massive amounts of content on the internet has become a pressing question in the US since it was revealed that Russian agencies took out thousands of ads on social media during the presidential campaign, reaching some 10 million people on Facebook alone. That comes on top of the existing concerns about preventing extremist attacks. This month, three men were arrested after allegedly using smartphone messaging apps to plot attacks on the New York City subway and Times Square from their homes in Canada, Pakistan and the Philippines. The plot was thwarted by an undercover officer, not technology. In some ways it goes to a question of identity. Social media companies see themselves not as publishers but as platforms for other people to share information, and have traditionally been cautious about taking down material. But the pressure is on to act. Facebook, Google, Twitter and YouTube in June created the Global Internet Forum to Combat Terrorism, which says it is committed to developing new content detection technology, helping smaller companies combat extremism and promoting counter-speech, content meant to blunt the impact of extremist material. Proponents of counter-speech argue that rather than trying to take down every Islamic State group post, internet companies and governments should do more to promote content that actively refutes extremist propaganda. This approach will unmask the extremist message of hate and violence in the marketplace of ideas, they argue, though critics see it as just another form of propaganda. Facebook has recently published details of its counterterrorism strategy for the first time. These include using artificial intelligence to prevent extremist images and videos from being uploaded and algorithms to find and disable accounts linked to pages known to support extremist movements. The company also plans to increase the staff dedicated to reviewing complaints of objectionable material by more than 60 percent to some 8,000 worldwide. We want Facebook to be a hostile place for terrorists, Monika Bickert, director of global policy management, and Brian Fishman, counterterrorism policy manager, said in a statement. The challenge for online communities is the same as it is for real world communities - to get better at spotting the early signals before its too late. But Roberts argues the companies have been slow to react and are trying to play catch up. The fact is the technology needed to detect and remove dangerous posts hasnt kept up with the threat, experts say. Removing such material still requires judgment, and artificial intelligence is not yet good enough to determine the difference, for example, between an article about the so-called Islamic State and posts from the group itself. In other words, taking down much of this material still needs human input, said Frank Pasquale, an expert in information law and changing technology at the University of Maryland. Acknowledging that is difficult for companies that were built by pushing the boundaries of technology. They dont like to admit how primitive their technologies are; it defeats their whole narrative that they can save the world, Pasquale said. You kill off the golden goose if you cast doubt over the power of their algorithms. Employing enough people to fill in where the algorithms leave off would be a massive task given the volume of material posted on social media sites every day. Just imagine trying to moderate every puppy photo or birthday greeting, said Siva Vaidhyanathan, director of the Center for Media and Citizenship at the University of Virginia. He believes that moderating content is ultimately impossible because you cant create a system that works for everyone from Saudi Arabia to Sweden. The problem is the very idea of the social media system it is ungovernable, he said. Facebook is designed as if we are nice to each other. And were not. The US government response has been more focused on policing than regulation, with security services authorized to sweep up huge amounts of electronic data to help them identify violent extremists and thwart attacks. Beyond that, authorities have mostly relied on the market to drive change amid fears that heavy-handed regulation could interfere with the First Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens to speak out and exchange information. European courts have had no such qualms, balancing freedom of expression against the right to privacy and community cohesion. For example, the European Court of Justice in 2014 ruled that people have the right to be forgotten, permitting them to demand removal of personal data from search results when they can prove theres no compelling reason for it to remain. As far back as 2000, a French court ordered Yahoo to prevent French internet users from buying Nazi memorabilia on its sites. The European Unions executive has been most active in matters of antitrust. This year it leveled a huge 2.4 billion euro ($2.8 billion) fine on Google and ordered it to change the way it does business, for example how it shows search results. Theres a real cultural divide, said Edward Tenner, author of the upcoming book The Efficiency Paradox: What Big Data Cant Do. European governments have been more committed to incorporating the ideas of social justice and the Americans have been much more on the libertarian side. AFP The astrophysics world is abuzz after the first-ever observation of two neutron stars merging in a cataclysmic crash that left a rich trail of debris for scientists to comb through. Here are three things the event has told us about the Universe we inhabit: Cosmic gold mine At last, scientists are now able to pinpoint the source of at least half the gold, platinum, lead and other heavy elements in the cosmos. "The gold in your wedding ring probably came from a neutron star merger in our part of the galaxy that happened five billion years ago or so before our Sun was born. And the mercury in your fillings," said co-discoverer Patrick Sutton of Cardiff University. When the Universe emerged from the "Big Bang", it consisted mainly of hydrogen and helium, the lightest elements on the Periodic Table. Heavier elements everything from the carbon in our bodies to the oxygen we breathe were formed later by nuclear reactions in the cores of stars fusing atoms together. But the heaviest element a star can make, scientists say, is iron number 26 on the Periodic Table of 100+ entries. One theoretical source for heavier elements is supernova explosions that happen when massive stars run out of fuel and die. But there are not enough such explosions, and insufficient material produced by them, to explain more than about half the heavy elements in the Universe. Another theorised source was neutron star mergers. Now, telescopes have spotted evidence for newly-synthesised heavy elements in the light bursts from one such cataclysmic crash. "For the very first time, we see unequivocal evidence of a cosmic mine that is forging about 10,000 Earth-masses of heavy elements," said Mansi Kasliwal from the California Institute of Technology, another member of the global team. Radiation Another mystery solved: neutron star smashups are now known to be one source for the bright flashes of high-energy radiation known as short gamma-ray bursts. First detected by American satellites in the 1960s, they were suspected at first of being Russian nuclear bomb explosions in space. When that theory collapsed, neutron star mergers were seen as another potential source. On 17 August this year, telescopes picked up a rather unspectacular gamma-ray burst brief and dimmer than usual. The flash could easily have been ignored if not for the fact that it came a mere 1.7 seconds after gravitational wave instruments happened upon the death spiral of two neutron stars in exactly the same spot. "This is, if you will, a smoking gun," said Sutton. "It's now clear that binary neutron stars are a source of the short gamma-ray bursts," though there may be other origins too. Expanding Universe Scientists know that the cosmos is expanding, but figuring out just how fast has been a challenge. If we can pinpoint the rate, we can determine the Universe's age, and how much matter it contains. By measuring the size of gravitational waves emitted from a monster event such as a merger of black holes or neutron stars, scientists can theoretically deduce how far away it happened. Similarly, examining a gamma-ray flash should reveal the "redshift" of the source, and thus the speed at which it is moving. Redshift is a measure of the changing wavelength of light travelling away from an observer. In the August 17 breakthrough, scientists observed both gamma rays and gravitational waves from the same source for the first time enabling them to make a fresh, though preliminary, estimate of how fast the Universe is expanding. For now, the number remains subject to large "statistical uncertainties", and needs to be refined by observing more neutron star crashes, the teams said. To infinity, and beyond Scientists hope to use neutron star merger data to learn more about the laws of Nature, and how matter behaves in such extreme environments. "From informing detailed models of the inner workings of neutron stars and the emissions they produce, to more fundamental physics such as general relativity, this event is just so rich," said David Shoemaker, head of the LIGO collaboration that helped detect the celestial smashup. "It is a gift that will keep on giving." tech2 News Staff The detection of gravitational waves for the third time by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) was the result of a massive collaborative efforts by over 1,000 scientists associated with research institutions and universities around the world. The discovery of gravitational waves for the first time in 2016 was the biggest science story of the year, if not the century. The signal was observed on 4 January, during a renewed campaign to hunt for gravitational waves after the LIGO facility received upgrades. Tyson Littenberg, principal investigator of the LIGO research group at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center says, "Up until the success of LIGO, almost everything we knew about the universe came from light. Gravitational wave observations are now firmly part of the toolbox for understanding some of the most exotic objects and violent events in the universe." The gravitational waves were from a collision between two black holes almost three billion light years away. One of the two black holes was 39 times the mass of the sun, and the other was 19 times the mass of the sun. They spun around each other and collided to form a single massive black hole with about 49 times the mass of the sun. The signal detected from the event lasted only two tenths of a second, during which the black holes whirled around each other six times. Erik Katsavounidis, senior research scientist in MIT, and part of the LIGO team, says "Coming from a field of looking for something rare, Ive always been hesitant, with one detection only, to declare victory. I can tell you Ive started sleeping much better after the second detection. Now this third one solidifies LIGO and LIGOs observations as the ultimate tool to see the mass spectrum of black holes in our universe." One of the most interesting aspects of the new discovery is related to the way in which black holes spin, when whirling around each other and heading towards a collision. One of the two black holes spun in a different direction around its axis than the direction in which the the two black holes moved around each other. This is similar to the teacups on a funfair ride rotating in a opposite direction than the platform. Georgia Tech Professor Laura Cadonati and LIGOs deputy spokesperson explains, "As an example, imagine a pair of tornadoes in a clockwise orbit around each other. Both tornadoes also spin on their own axes. It could be in the same clockwise direction as their orbit or it could be in the other direction. They could also be lying down on their orbital plane or at any angle in between. Black holes could do the same thing." The Australian National University (ANU) contributed to improving the systems on the LIGO detectors, so that observations of longer duration could be undertaken, which increases the chances of finding gravitational waves. Professor Susan Scott from the ANU Research School of Physics and Engineering says "It's possible this is a binary system of black holes that formed in the early Universe and contributes significantly to the dark matter in the cosmos. This heavy stellar-mass binary black hole system was at a much greater distance than the first two gravitational wave events, at some three billion light years away. This discovery highlights the need to continue improving the sensitivity of our detectors to see further and further out into the Universe." Sanjit Mitra from the Pune-based Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), researchers of which have participated in the LIGO discoveries, said "The new event also provides new opportunities to test Einsteins theory of general relativity. For example, this allowed us to confirm Einsteins prediction that gravitational waves should not undergo dispersion the phenomena of waves travelling at different speeds depending on their wavelength. Indian scientists played a leading role in deriving this result" West Virginia University (WVU) has 6 professors and 2 students working on the LIGO project. Sean McWilliams, assistant professor of Physics and Astronomy at WVU outlines four significant aspects of the latest discovery. The new discovery provides more insight into the spins of black holes. At 49 solar masses, the new discovery is between the two previous discoveries, which were 62 and 21 solar masses. The third important point to note is that this is the most distant detection of such an event, at three billion light years away, the other two events took place less than 1.5 billion light years away. The final important aspect is that the discovery happened during the current campaign with upgraded capabilities, and there are plans to further upgrade the facility before the next campaign. Jordan Camp, principal investigator for the Goddard LIGO team says "LIGO is unveiling a population of stellar-mass black holes far more massive than those that have been detected through previous observations. The mystery now is how these larger black holes form, and how they end up close enough to one another that we observe them merging so frequently." India could play a role in such exciting discoveries in the future. India is all set to get its own LIGO facility by 2024, the first to be located outside the United States. The project is called IndiGO, and a site in Hingoli, in Maharashtra has been identified. The Indian LIGO facility is expected to be even more advanced than the two LIGO facilities in the United States, and experiments are already under way to create more precise detectors by using quantum mechanics to squeeze light. Khost: The death toll in a suicide and gun attack on police in southeast Afghanistan has risen to 32 with more than 200 wounded, an official said, in the latest deadly violence to hit the country. "The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood," said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province. The Taliban claimed responsibility in a tweet for the ongoing attack at the centre in Gardiz, capital of Paktia province, which borders Pakistan. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault," the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, according to the interior ministry statement. There were no immediate reports of casualties. A local official said two car bombs blew up near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing," Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Tokyo/ United Nations: The United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, Deputy Secretary of State John J Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks, Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail, he said. Tension has soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Leaflets apparently from North Korea calling Trump a mad dog and depicting gruesome images of him have turned up across central Seoul, adding an unusually personal element to North Korean propaganda. The situation on the Korean peninsula where the attention of the whole world is focused has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment, North Koreas deputy UN ambassador Kim In Ryong told a UN General Assembly committee on Monday. As long as one does not take part in the US military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country, according to Kims prepared remarks for the discussion on nuclear weapons. Kim did not read that section out loud. South Korea and the United States began week-long joint Navy drills in the waters around the Korean peninsula on Monday, involving about 40 ships from both militaries, including the nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, the Souths defence ministry said. The Norths state media said on Tuesday the allies desperate efforts to block the advance of the country would only vindicate that it should continue its nuclear program to the last. The DPRK has been fully ready for all the US is resorting to, including sanctions, pressure and military option, as it has the tremendous nuclear force for self-defence and irresistible strength of self-reliance and self-development, the official KCNA news agency said in a commentary. The DPRK stands for North Koreas official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Asked about the North Korean envoys warning of nuclear war, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said it would not be in anyones interest. China still hopes that all parties, in this situation where things on the Korean peninsula are highly complex and sensitive, can exercise restraint and do more to benefit the lowering of tensions in the region, Lu told a daily news briefing. The UN Security Council has unanimously ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since 2006. The most recent UN sanctions banned exports of coal, iron ore and seafood, aimed at cutting off a third of the Norths total annual exports of $3 billion. Experts say North Korea has been scrambling to find alternative sources of hard currency to keep its economy afloat and advance its weapons programme. North Koreas Lazarus hacking group was probably responsible for a recent cyber heist in Taiwan, cyber-security firm BAE Systems Plc said on Monday. Taiwans Central News Agency said last week that hackers had sought to steal some $60 million from the Far Eastern Bank, but it had recovered all but $500,000. BAE Systems and other cyber firms have previously linked Lazarus to last years $81-million cyber heist at Bangladeshs central bank. North Korea has also recently allowed citizens as young as 12 to bet on horse races for the first time, state news agency KCNA reported. Punters had previously risked three years hard labour for gambling in the reclusive and tightly controlled state, but the growing importance of private markets meant more people had money to spend on leisure, experts said. You may have ridiculed Kim Jong Un for constructing lavish facilities while struggling to feed the people, but those things are to make foreign currency, not from foreigners, but from the well-off inside North Korea, because you have to pay in US dollars or Chinese renminbi there, said Lee Sang-keun, a researcher at the Institute of Unification Studies of Ewha Womans University in Seoul. Many North Koreans make lots of money from the market, dine at hamburger restaurants and go shopping, all of which help fatten regime coffers. Thats part of the reason why the regime still has some financial latitude, despite international sanctions. Montreal/ Paris: Airbus SE agreed on Monday to buy a majority stake in Bombardier Incs CSeries jetliner program, grabbing control of a struggling competitor at the second attempt and giving the Canadian plane-and-train-maker an unexpected boost in its costly trade dispute with Boeing Co. The deal, which would come at no cost for Toulouse, France-based Airbus, would give the European planemaker a 50.01 percent interest in CSeries Aircraft Limited Partnership, which manufactures and sells the jets, the companies said. While Bombardier will lose control of a plane program developed at a cost of $6 billion, it gives the CSeries improved economies of scale and a better sales network. The 110-to-130 seat plane has not secured a new order in 18 months and is being threatened by a possible 300 percent duty on U.S. imports. Bombardier said the partnership should more than double the value of the CSeries program. Bombardier no longer has control of this jet, but then again, its better to have a 30 percent share of a very successful program than to struggle with a highly risky program that was perhaps too big for them from the start, said aerospace analyst Richard Aboulafia. Canadian Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains, who must decide whether to approve the deal, said in a statement that on the surface, Bombardiers new proposed partnership ... would help position the CSeries for success. Strategic decision Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders said the company has offered to assemble some of the narrowbody jets at its U.S. plant in Alabama for orders by American carriers. The U.S. assembly line would mean the jets would not be subject to possible U.S. anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duties of 300 percent, Bombardier Chief Executive Alain Bellemare said on a media conference call. Bellemare called the deal with Airbus, which was first attempted unsuccessfully in 2015, a strategic decision that is expected to close in the second half of 2018. Were doing this deal here not because of this Boeing petition. We are doing this deal because it is the right strategic move for Bombardier, Bellemare said, referring to Boeings complaint that the Canadian firm received illegal subsidies and dumped CSeries planes at absurdly low prices. A Boeing spokesman dismissed the agreement as a questionable deal between two state-subsidized competitors to try to skirt a recent U.S. trade finding against the CSeries. In February, the Canadian government announced C$372.5 million ($297 million) in repayable loans for the CSeries and another Bombardier jet program. The Airbus investment does not place any more financial burdens on Ottawa, two sources close to the case said on Monday. The sources, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to media, also said the deal would have no effect on a separate dispute between Canada and Boeing over a proposed purchase of 18 Super Hornet jets. The government has frozen contacts with Boeings military wing until the company drops its challenge against the CSeries. Bombardier said the deal would not result in job losses and would keep the head office in Montreal. Unions said the deal would benefit the program. Ultimately, the U.S. actions have created a stronger Bombardier, said Jerry Dias, president of Unifor, which represents some of Bombardiers unionized workers in Canada. The Boeing-Bombardier dispute has snowballed into a bigger multilateral trade dispute, with British Prime Minister Theresa May asking U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene in order to save British jobs. Bombardier is the largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland, which is the poorest of the United Kingdoms four constituent parts and remains mired in political sensitivities after emerging from decades of armed sectarian conflict. Boost for Belfast On Monday, the leader of the Northern Irish party propping up Britains minority government said the Airbus was incredibly significant news for Belfast. Talks for the deal between Airbus and Bombardier first started in August. Enders said the deal was different from an earlier round of talks in 2015, when he abruptly ordered an end to negotiations. He said the CSeries has since been certified, entered service and was performing well. Its an entirely different situation, he said. Delta Air Lines Inc (DAL.N), which ordered 75 CSeries planes, said after the announcement that it looked forward to introducing the planes into its fleet. Under the deal, Bombardier will own about 31 percent, while Investissement Quebec, the investment arm of the province of Quebec, will hold 19 percent. In 2015, Quebec took a 49 percent stake in the CSeries program for $1 billion, although its stake was more recently diluted to 38 percent. Quebecs largest pension fund, which holds a 30 percent stake in Bombardiers rail division, said the decision strengthened the company and improved its growth prospects. Bombardier is in the middle of a five-year turnaround plan after considering bankruptcy because of a cash-crunch as it developed multiple plane programs simultaneously, including the CSeries. The deal also provides Airbus warrants exercisable to acquire up to 100 million Class B Shares of Bombardier. Airbus will provide procurement, sales and marketing, and customer support expertise to CSALP, the companies said. There will be no cash contribution by any of the partners, nor will CSALP assume any financial debt, they added. Bombardier expects a $400 million loss in commercial aircraft this year, but has set a breakeven target for 2020. The Indian Finance Ministrys top economic affairs official pushed back against the suggestion that states are getting less than their fair share of central funds in the new normal of centre-state fund sharing that's been worked into the system against the backdrop of two massive disruptions - Demonetisation and the newly minted Goods and Services Tax - in the span of six months. In a rare on camera interaction on the nuts and bolts of centre state finances and the backroom work that went into rolling out the Goods and Services Tax, Subhash Chandra Garg, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs spoke with Firstpost in Washington D.C after the annual IMF meetings. Garg is a 1983 batch Indian Administrative Service officer from the Rajasthan cadre and took over the DEA Secretary role mid-year 2017 after his predecessor Shaktikanta Das retired. Excerpts from the conversation, lightly edited, are below: Firstpost: Has the government taken a sledgehammer to crack a walnut - Two massive disruptions in less than six months? Subhash Chandra Garg: I dont know what youre referring to as a walnut. If Indias tax reform is equal to cracking a walnut, that is not true. So many indirect taxes spread over federal and state governments - each one compartmentalised further into sub categories, the number of cesses It was a humungous challenge. We neither used a sledgehammer nor was the challenge a walnut. It was the most appropriate system that has been put in place. A manual system being replaced by a totally computerised systemis no mean feat. FP: The government has succeeded in ensuring that it is impossible to operate outside the ambit of regulatory framework. What are you doing to ensure that business can operate efficiently inside the new system? Garg: That is the case. Thats what you see now. The better prepared part of the industry, which you hear about often from the Finance Minister - 95 per cent of the taxes being paid by 400,000 assessees in the indirect tax space. They have taken to the new system very well. We had some issues with the smaller portions who have had some difficulty adapting. The government has been very responsive so that the new system is friendly. FP: The increased transparency has led to a decline in bank finance to industry - especially steel and infrastructure. Garg: The decline is not because of any of these (new) measures - demonetisation or GST. The decline is because of the larger investment decisions made by them. Overcapacity led to some stresses, pricing power got reduced. Those will also be addressed. But if the industry in these sectors cannot improve, then they can resolve through the IBC process. The banks did finance these sectors. FP: Theres a surge of references to Jan Dhan accounts. Meanwhile, Universal Basic Income has figured in the IMF annual report too. Whats the thinking within government on next steps? Garg: It is very clear. The Governments stated policy is to take all the transfers the government does - of subsidy and support - and it should go through these accounts. And these accounts will gradually be embedded with many more facilities. FP: In the aggregate, you are saying the fisc is doing well. Govt also claims that every Rs 2 cut in excise leads to a Rs 26,000 crore reduction in income to the exchequer. But specific duties are a multiple of that ( of the Rs 2 cut), so if the fisc is indeed doing well on account of the increase in specific duties which have risen from almost nothing, then why are states getting less than their share of 49% of funds ( as recommended by the 14th Finance Commission)? Garg: Again, this needs to be seen in the right context. Most states are rightly demandingas I said, Im from the state of Rajasthan..we demanded much of the central share should come in the untied way. It should not be tied to any particular programme. That is what was done - by increasing the share (of states) from 32% to 42%. This kind of enormous increase is unprecedented. So 42% of the centers taxes are shared with the states without any conditions. This is the way the states should get (funds) and they can in turn plan what they want to use that for. What you refer to as 49% is the other kind of support which goes from the Centre in the form of plans, schemes. Thats not a great kind of support.Most states you would find complaining that if you send it in tied form, their ability to determine expenditures get reduced. Let us take any scheme of Government of India, lets say 50-50. Fifty percent the government would give but 50% would be provided by the statesThe right way to progress is through untied funding. Earlier we used to have a lot of loan based schemes where the loan was paid by the Government of India to the states. That also amounted to the Centre determining where they ( states) should spend but they were getting indebted. That has been transformed. Planned funding is not in the form of loans. These are changes that have made state finance more robust, not worse off. Seoul: Former French president Francois Hollande slammed Donald Trump's hardline stance on the Iran nuclear dealwhich Paris helped to negotiateas a "double fault", warning the US president's "unpredictability" threatened global stability. Trump's threat to ditch the landmark 2015 agreement, which saw Tehran dramatically scale back its nuclear ambitions in return for an end to punishing sanctions, has sparked a chorus of foreign support for the pact. "Donald Trump's decision not to certify the accord and to demand that Congress strengthen sanctions is, to my eyes, a double fault," Hollande told a conference in Seoul. The former leader's first speech on international affairs since leaving the Elysee in May touched on global issues including climate change, economic protectionism and populist politics and laid into the "confusion" appearing to emanate from the White House. Trump has said the agreement was letting Iran off the hook but left it up to the US Congress to decide whether to reimpose sanctions. The former French leader said the US president's actions showed a "deep misunderstanding of the negotiation's purpose", which was to "stop Iran from obtaining weapons, and not to make it change its politics". He also accused Trump of "damaging the credibility of any future negotiations with North Korea" with Washington's about-turns, a concern shared by European Union ministers. "It has to be shown that agreements will be kept to in the long term," Hollande said. The EU said Monday it would send its chief diplomat Federica Mogherini to Washington next month to fight for the nuclear deal. Hollande said the world "has not been this polarised, in different ways, since 1945". "And the role of the United States serves to further complicate the situation, especially if confusion reigns at its top." In the face of nuclear proliferation, the world needed "certainty and stability", he added. "The worst option is unpredictability, which can lead to irrationality." This domain was recently registered at Namecheap.com. Please check back later! New Delhi: The government is using aircraft and vessels to search for 10 Indian crew members, who went missing after their cargo ship sank in the Pacific off the Philippines last week, the external affairs ministry said on Monday. They also said that five Indian crew members of Emerald Star are in Irene, the Philippines, and countrys mission is bringing them to Manila before repatriation to India. Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of Emerald Star in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen. Search for missing 10 crew members still ongoing using aircraft and vessels. We will keep posting regular updates on further developments, ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Separately, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, in a series of tweets, said there were 26 Indians on board the ship, of them 16 have been rescued and 10 are still missing. "Indian Embassy in Japan has informed me that a helicopter and 2 patrol vessels of Japan Coast Guard are engaged in search/rescue operations", she said. The minister said the Indian Navy's P8I aircraft has reached Manila and joined the search and rescue operation for the missing Indians. P8I is a long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. On Friday, the 33,205-tonne cargo ship Emerald Star with 26 Indian nationals on board sank off Okinawa. While 16 Indians were rescued, a search for the missing crew members was launched by Indian missions in the Philippines, Japan and China to locate them. Valletta: Daphne Caruana Galizia, Maltas best-known investigative journalist, was killed on Monday when a powerful bomb blew up her car, police said, in a case that stunned the small Mediterranean island. Caruana Galizia, 53, ran a hugely popular blog in which she relentlessly highlighted cases of alleged high-level corruption targeting politicians from across party lines. "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate," she wrote in a blog published on her site just half an hour before an explosion tore into her car. Locals said Caruana Galizia had just left her house and was on a road near the village of Bidnija in northern Malta when the bomb detonated, sending her car flying into an adjacent field. Maltese prime minister Joseph Muscat, who faced accusations of wrong-doing by Caruana Galizia earlier this year, denounced her killing, calling it a "barbaric attack on press freedom". He announced that the US' Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had agreed to help local police investigate the killing and was flying experts to the island as soon as possible. "I will not rest until I see justice done in this case," he said in a statement, calling for national unity. Around 3,000 people held a silent, candle-lit vigil on Tuesday evening in Sliema, just outside Valletta. The hashtag Je Suis Daphne circulated widely among social media users on the island of 4,00,000 people, the European Unions smallest state. "Everyone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way," Muscat said. "The only remedy for anyone who felt slandered was through the courts." Muscat sued Caruana Galizia after she wrote blogs earlier this year saying his wife was the beneficial owner of a company in Panama, and that large sums of money had been moved between the company and bank accounts in Azerbaijan. Both Muscat and his wife denied the accusations. Looking for a vote of confidence to counter the allegations, Muscat called snap elections in June which he easily won. Recently, Caruana Galizias outspoken blog had turned its fire on opposition politicians. Malta Television reported that Caruana Galizia had filed a complaint to the police two weeks ago to say she had received threats. It gave no further information. "Political murder" Opposition leader Adrian Delia said the blogger was the victim of a "political murder". "Caruana Galizia revealed the Panama Papers and was the governments strongest critic," he said, calling for a independent probe of her killing. "We will not accept an investigation by the Commissioner of Police, the army commander or the duty magistrate, all of whom were at the heart of criticism by Caruana Galizia," he said. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange said he would offer a 20,000 euro ($23,578.00) reward for information leading to the conviction of Caruana Galizias killers, and European politicians expressed dismay at her death. Frans Timmermans, first vice-president of the European Commission, tweeted that he was "shocked and outraged", adding that "if journalists are silenced our freedom is lost". Manfred Weber, head of the conservative bloc in the European Parliament, said the killing marked "a dark day for democracy". Caruana Galizia took aim at politicians and senior officials from across Malta, seeing the island as a hotbed of corruption. "Maltas public life is afflicted with dangerously unstable men with no principles or scruples," she wrote last year. Her family asked that the magistrate assigned to investigate the case, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, be substituted because of an alleged conflict of interest, court documents showed. Herrera had sought libel damages after Caruana Galizia attacked her in her blog. New Delhi: Bangladesh on Monday pitched for a greater Indian role in containing the influx of Rohingya Muslims escaping violence in Myanmar, saying the issue may not be directly affecting India now, but it may have an impact in future. Bangladesh's High Commissioner to India Syed Muazzem Ali said the "fire in the neighbourhood" has the potential to engulf the entire region and it would be prudent for India to act in "mutual interest". "It is a fire in our neighbourhood and before it engulfs in the entire region it needs to be put out. They (the refugees) are vulnerable to all sorts of radicalisation and it is in our mutual advantage to work together," Ali told reporters at the Foreign Correspondents' Club. Responding to a question, he said New Delhi and Dhaka may not appear on the same page on the issue as Myanmar's Rakhine State, the epicentre of the refugee exodus, does not have a common border with India. "You are safe for now but how long will that be? It is in our common interest to act together. It may burn my house today, but it may surely have an impact in your house tomorrow," he said, while applauding India's role in sending relief for the refugees housed in a number of camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar area. He refused to comment on India's proposal to deport around 40,000 Rohingya refugees who are settled in camps across the country, saying it was a "matter of your country". However, he reminded that "60 percent" of the refugees who have crossed over to Bangladesh were women, children and elderly and living in "unacceptable conditions". He called the Rakhine State a breeding ground of radicalisation owing to alleged atrocities on the Rohingya community and their festering anger. He suggested that reports of bodies of Hindu Rohingya people found in mass graves were an attempt by the Myanmar administration to "intentionally" drive a wedge between communities. "It is the inability of the Myanmarese authorities to recognise them (the Rohingya) as their own which is creating issues. The problem originated in Myanmar and needs to be resolved there," he said. Referring to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's upcoming visit to Dhaka, Ali said water sharing is one of the very few areas of common interest between the two countries which remains contentious. "The sooner we resolve the issue the better," he said. In an oblique reference to West Bengal's position on the issue that during the lean season water availability in Teesta river was not enough to share, he said: "It is like a person calling himself orphan after killing his own parents." Nay Pyi Taw: The Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Tuesday said nearly 300 Rohingya villages have been torched in Myanmar since the current spate of violence began in late August. The rights group used satellite images to identify 288 partially or completely burned villages in Rakhine state, where tens of thousands of structures were destroyed, reports Efe news. "These latest satellite images show why over half a million Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in just four weeks," Deputy Asia Director of HRW Phil Robertson said. "The Burmese military destroyed hundreds of Rohingya villages while committing killings, rapes, and other crimes against humanity that forced Rohingya to flee for their lives." The HRW said that 90 percent of the affected villages were in the Maungdaw town, adding that Rohingya houses were burned while adjacent areas inhabited by the Rakhine Buddhists were left intact. The report also said that at least 66 villages were burned after 5 September, when the government's operation, started after the Rohingya rebel attack on 25 August, was declared to be over. According to the United Nations (UN), more than 530,000 Rohingya have been forced to flee to Bangladesh since the offensive began. More than one million Rohingyas lived in Rakhine prior to the latest round of offensive and had been facing growing persecution since the outbreak of sectarian violence in 2012, which left at least 160 dead. Myanmar denies citizenship to the Rohingyas, considering them illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, and imposes multiple restrictions on them, including restrictions on their movement. Valletta: The son of a slain Maltese journalist on Tuesday described finding his mother's body in pieces after a car bombing and accused Prime Minister Joseph Muscat of being "complicit" in her grisly killing. Matthew Caruana Galizia, himself a journalist involved in digesting the Panama Papers, said his mother had been assassinated for doing her job in investigating alleged corruption. In an emotional post on his Facebook page, the son of whistleblowing blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia accused Muscat of filling his office with crooks and creating a culture of impunity that had turned Malta into a "mafia island". His mother was a veteran journalist, once described as a "one-woman Wikileaks", who used her widely-read blog to make a series of detailed allegations of corruption in Muscat's inner circle, some based on the Panama Papers data leak. Her killing has triggered an outpouring of grief on the island of just 430,000 people, with thousands turning out to an overnight candlelit vigil in her memory in the fortress capital Valletta. Further "Justice for Daphne" demonstrations were scheduled on Tuesday. The journalist was the fourth person to die in a Malta car bombing in just over a year but previous attacks were all linked to criminal feuds and did not generate anything like the shock created by Caruana's death. Inferno "I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it," Matthew Caruana wrote. "They stared at me. 'I'm sorry, there is nothing we can do," one of them said. "I looked down and there were my mother's body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless." Muscat described the killing as "barbaric" and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. That pledge was dismissed by the victim's son, who said even one of the police officers involved in investigating the murder had celebrated his mother's death online. "A culture of impunity has been allowed to flourish by the government in Malta," he wrote. "It is of little comfort for the prime minister of this country to say that he will 'not rest' until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a government that encouraged that same impunity. "First he filled his office with crooks, then he filled the police with crooks and imbeciles, then he filled the courts with crooks and incompetents. "If the institutions were already working, there would be no assassination to investigate - and my brothers and I would still have a mother." Assange reward The judge in charge of investigating the murder stepped aside from the case Tuesday following objections from the Caruana Galizia family that she was too close to the Labour Party administration. Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera had been accused of misconduct by the blogger and had threatened her with libel proceedings. Caruana Galizia's death came four months after Muscat won a landslide victory in elections that were called early after she accused his wife of taking kickbacks from Azerbaijan's ruling family and hiding the cash in a secret Panama bank account. The claims, which Muscat fervently denies, were the latest in a string of scandals on the island based on information leaked from the records of Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. The so-called Panama Papers revealed how wealthy individuals around the world, including a number of politicians, used shell companies based in the Latin American state and other tax havens to hide cash. Among those exposed were Keith Schembri, Muscat's chief of staff, and Konrad Mizzi, a government minister. The premier resisted pressure to fire the pair, insisting their accounts were related to their private business and they had done nothing illegal. Wikileaks founder Julian Assange offered a 20,000 euros reward for anyone who provided information about the attack leading to the conviction of those responsible. Madrid: Spain's government said on Monday Catalonia's separatist leader had failed to clarify whether he had declared independence, urging him to say by Thursday whether he was maintaining his drive to break the region away from Spain. "The government regrets that the president of the Catalan government has decided not to respond to the request made by the government," deputy prime minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria told reporters. "In an issue as important such as this all that was asked, and all we are asking for, is clarity," she said, adding that Puigdemont had until Thursday at 10 am (8 am GMT) to make clear his intentions. Last week, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's conservative government had set a Monday deadline for Puigdemont to explicitly say whether or not he proclaimed that Catalonia was breaking away from Spain. In a letter sent to Rajoy, Puigdemont did not give a clear "yes" or "no" answer to the government's question and called instead for two months of dialogue. He also requested that Spanish authorities halt "all repression" in Catalonia and requested a meeting with Rajoy "as soon as possible". In a written response to Puigdemont, Rajoy said a clarification was "absolutely necessary". "I hope that in the hours that remain until the second deadline... you reply with all the clarity that citizens demand and the law requires," Rajoy said in his letter. The most strictly regulated work visa in the United States - the H1B - is all set to become more knotty. While high ranking Indian ministers continue to engage with various stakeholders in the Trump administration on the impending H1B visa reform process, the Department of Labour is further tightening H1B regulations in its relentless ongoing effort of upping protection for American workers. Link: Follow our comprehensive coverage of H1B visas on Planet Trump The form with the maximum open source information on H1B workers - the Labor Condition Application (LCA) is set to drill down to more painstaking detail than it ever has in all the years since the existence of the H1B visa. In its present form, the LCA asks the employer for location of the H1B worker but the new LCA proposes to dig much deeper. This is born of the gaps that have historically existed within the H1B model - where the H1B employer often ( not always, not essential) sub-contracts downstream which means there are often layers of people involved between the official employer - H1B worker and and the client who dont figure in the paperwork. These gaps, because they go undocumented, have led to their own set of issues ranging from deep cuts in actual salary drawn to sketchy deliverables when an H1B staffer is benched. If the proposed changes come through, the H1B employer will have to add the name of the secondary employer in cases where the secondary employer has the right to control the daily work of the H1B employee and this secondary employers ability to terminate the H1B employee. Why this matters is that the LCA is the original fount of information on any H1B worker and is the first stop in the voluminous trail of paperwork that accompanies H1B petitions. It is basis the open source information in LCA petitions that a young French engineer named Theo Negri first broke the story on how some companies game the H1B lottery systems. India's foreign minister Sushma Swaraj flagged the H1B visa issue with a visiting nine member Congressional delegation and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley brought it up with Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross stressing that H-1B workers are high-value professionals and not illegal economic migrants and that is why US should treat them with a different and better perspective. While this outreach continues, the focus of the Americans has been on something else entirely: plugging the gaping holes in procedure and due diligence. Like White House officials (rightly) say that nothing has changed so far, that is as far as legislation goes. But since the H1B visa is overseen by multiple agencies, the assault on tying up loose ends has been relentless. After being a staple of the whisper circuit the last decade, gaming the H1B became prime time fodder for the America First club in Trump-led USA. Early this year, the White House jumped in too, naming TCS, Infosys and Cognizant in its briefing on reforming the H1B. Despite Indias A team of ministers routinely bringing up the H1B issue, it did not come up during the Modi-Trump meetings. The American position has not changed since early this year, and a top White House official put it in simple words: The official position has not changed. It is under review and until the review is complete, we have nothing more to say. Whatever needs to be said is in the Buy American Hire American Executive Order." India leads the list of top 20 countries filing H1B applications, according to latest data released by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services - the most important cog in H1B regulation. Of the total 336,107 applications received in 2017 , India filed 247,927 H1B petitions. China follows far behind India in second place with 36,362 petitions filed in 2017. The total number of approvals to date in 2017 are 197,129. Khost, Afghanistan: Suicide bombers and gunmen launched an attack on a police training centre in southeastern Afghanistan on Tuesday, officials said, in the latest violence to rock the war-torn country. The Taliban claimed responsibility in a tweet for the ongoing attack at the centre in Gardiz, capital of Paktia province, which borders Pakistan. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault", the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, according to the interior ministry statement. There were no immediate reports of casualties. A local official said two car bombs blew up near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing," Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Keyssa Inc, backed by iPod co-creator Tony Fadell is suing Android co-creator, Andy Rubins Essential over Connector technology which connects to devices like camera, etc. without wires or WiFi. The company is accusing Essential of theft of trade secrets in a legal lawsuit filed on 16th October, Monday in U.S. federal court in San Francisco. Keyssa Inc has been developing a new chipset that will make the transfer of large amounts of data from one device to another without using wires and WiFi connection. The company has partnered with Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd which is Foxconns parent company and others to make this a standard feature among smartphones. The Essential Phone which was released back in September was the first smartphone in the market to feature a wireless connector which the phone uses to communicate with the 360-degree camera accessory that Essential had introduced along with the phone. Now, Keyssa claims in the lawsuit that Essential has involved in the design and technology discussions with Keyssa for ten months, but ultimately ended the relationship. The lawsuit further states that in November 2016, Essential mentioned that it would use a chip from SiBEAM, a division of Lattice Semiconductor. Though Essential phone uses a different chipset, the ultimate design and technology incorporated were developed by Keyssa to implement them in smartphones. The information shared with Essential along with 20 other Keyssa engineers during discussions were trade secrets, and Essential was barred from using any of the information for making commercial use with regards to the non-disclosure agreement between the companies claims Keyssa in the lawsuit. When Reuters approached Keyssa, the company said: Keyssa has not been compensated for Essentials use of this guidance and know-how, and we are pursuing this action because our attempts to resolve this matter through discussions with Essential have not been successful. However, Essential is yet to comment on the issue. Source Researchers have concluded that the WPA2 Wi-Fi protocol is vulnerable to attacks and the protocol has a severe weakness which lets hackers within the range of vulnerable device or access point to intercept passwords, e-mails, and other data and in some cases inject malware content into the website the person is visiting. The new content vulnerability is called KRACK, short for Key Reinstallation Attacks. This research was closely guarded for weeks before the official announcement which was made yesterday and the KRACK website which discloses the vulnerabilities that affect the core WPA2 protocol itself. It is effective against devices running Android, Linux, OpenBSD, and to some extent of Mac and Windows OS and MediaTek Linksys as well. The site explains that attackers can exploit the flaw to decrypt sensitive data thats usually encrypted by the WiFi protocol. Vanhoef demos the KRACK attack with a video where he demonstrates the attack against a device running Googles Android mobile operating system. The attack forces the phone to install an all-zero encryption key, rather than the real key and this even works on Linux based devices. Furthermore, the sites state that using HTTPS protected Web pages doesnt necessarily mean a remedy against the weakness as many improperly configured websites can be forced into dropping HTTPS. Responding to the WPA2 protocol attack, Microsoft said that it has already fixed for customers running supported versions of Windows. While on the other hand, Google is yet to address the issue and said that an update is on its way in the coming weeks. Google-owned Pixel phones will be the first to receive the security update with security patch level of November 6, 2017. But most other Android phones are far behind the latest updates. With Google out of the way, Apple has also confirmed that it is committed to rolling out a fix addressing the WPA2 WiFi problem in the coming weeks for iOS, tvOS, watchOS, macOS betas. So, that means Apple isnt in the clear just yet. However, the time Machine, AirPort Extreme base station, and AirPort Express do not have a patch available, and it is not clear if the patch is in progress. Source 1,2,3,4 HMD Global has scheduled an event in China on October 19th in China where the company is expected to launch a brand new phone. Currently, there is no clear information as to what the company might introduce because of the multiple possibilities. The company might launch the Nokia 8 variants in China or announce a brand new model altogether. Two devices with model numbers TA-1041 and TA-1042 were certified in China last month, so it is a possibility that HMD Global might introduce two new devices this week. However, the latest teaser image found on Nokias exclusive TMall online store suggests that the company will be launching the Nokia 7. The teaser image reads qi which means 7 in Chinese and the image also has OZO camera shadow in the background and text saying new Nokia phone is coming this week. Latest rumors suggest that the Nokia 7 is expected to come in three different variants; one with 3GB and 32GB, another variant with 4GB and 32GB, and finally the high-end model with 4GB RAM and 64GB of internal storage. All the three options are said to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 630 SoC and is rumored to support OZO Audio. Much like the Nokia 8, the Nokia 7 will also feature Bothie dual-sight feature. All these are just speculations at the moment, and it is very much possible that HMD Global might just bring the new variant of Nokia 8 with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage that was launched in Finland recently. So, we need to wait for a couple of days more for the official announcement. Source: 1, 2 | Via Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by Factset. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. Legal Statement. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. 2022 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. FAQ - New Privacy Policy Activist investor RBR Capital Advisors is launching a campaign for breaking up Swiss bank Credit Suisse Group AG (NYSE:CS) into three parts, the Financial Times reported on Monday. RBR Capital Advisors will reveal its plan later in the week at a conference in New York, the report added. According to the report, the plan will offer the argument for a three-way split of Credit Suisse into an investment bank, an asset management group and a wealth manager accommodating the Switzerland-based banks retail and business banking operations. The activist investor has a small stake in the bank of 0.2 to 0.3 percent of the share capital, the report said. Commenting on the FT report, Credit Suisse spokeswoman Karina Byrne said, While we welcome the views of all our shareholders, our focus is on the implementation of our strategy and of our three-year plan, which is well on track and which we believe will unlock considerable value for our clients and shareholders. RBR Capital Advisors did not respond to requests for comment outsider regular business hours. Credit Suisse Chief Executive Tidjane Thiam, in the job since July 2015, has restructured the bank to focus on wealth management and less on investment banking, while the Swiss lender has been hit by billions in fines and write-downs. Earlier this year, RBR Capital Advisors launched a campaign against Swiss money manager GAM Holding AG to gain three GAM board seats and replace the companys leadership. Adobe Systems Inc (NASDAQ:ADBE) warned on Monday that hackers are exploiting vulnerabilities in its Flash multimedia software platform in web browsers, and the company urged users to quickly patch their systems to prevent such attacks. The warning came after cyber security firm Kaspersky Lab Inc said a group it was tracking, BlackOasis, used the previously unknown weakness on Oct. 10 to plant malicious software on computers before connecting them back to servers in Switzerland, Bulgaria and the Netherlands. Kaspersky said the malware, known as FinSpy or FinFisher, is a commercial product typically sold to nation states and law enforcement agencies to conduct surveillance. Kaspersky said its assessment of BlackOasis shows it is targeting Middle Eastern politicians and United Nations officials engaged in the region, opposition bloggers and activists, and regional news correspondents with the latest version of FinSpy. The company said victims have so far been observed in Russia, Iraq, Afghanistan, the United Kingdom, Iran and elsewhere in Africa and the Middle East. Adobe said it had released a Flash security update to fix the problem, which affected Googles Chrome and Microsofts Edge and Internet Explorer browsers as well as desktop versions. Adobe said in July that by the end of 2020 it would retire its once-ubiquitous technology used to power most of the media content found online. It was heavily criticized by late Apple CEO Steve Jobs, with alternatives such as HTML5 emerging in recent years and several web browsers now requiring users to enable Flash before running it. On Googles Chrome, the most popular web browser, Flash was used daily by 17 percent of desktop users, down from 80 percent in 2014, Google said at the time Adobe announced its retirement. Marc Dr. Doom Faber, a market prognosticator known for his bearish predictions, drew criticism on Tuesday after including racially-charged comments in the latest print edition of his investment newsletter. In the October edition of Fabers Gloom, Doom and Boom report, the investment guru criticized liberal hypocrites and ongoing efforts to tear down monuments of historic personalities. Faber added that the U.S. grew successful because white people held power. Thank God white people populated America, and not the blacks, Faber wrote, according to an excerpt of the print newsletter obtained by Business Insider. Otherwise, the U.S. would look like Zimbabwe, which it might look like one day anyway, but at least America enjoyed 200 years in the economic and political sun under a white majority. I am not a racist, but the reality no matter how politically incorrect needs to be spelled out as well. Faber doubled down on his comments in a subsequent statement to Business Insider, adding that he is naturally standing by this comment since this is an indisputable fact, the outlet reported. If stating some historical facts makes me a racist, then I suppose that I am a racist. For years, Japanese were condemned because they denied the Nanking massacre, Faber said. The status of Confederate statues and monuments remain a source of national debate. This summer, violent white supremacist protests of efforts to remove a statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee in Charlottesville, Virginia drew international attention. President Donald Trump was criticized for what critics deemed a weak response to the protests. A longtime voice in the investment community, Faber was a regular guest on many financial news programs prior to the newsletters release. Oil prices ended little changed on Tuesday, steadying after earlier gains and losses, as expectations of high U.S. production and exports offset concerns that fighting between Iraqi and Kurdish forces could threaten the country's crude output. Brent crude futures gained 6 cents, or 0.1 percent, to settle at $57.88 per barrel, while U.S. crude gained 1 cent to settle at $51.88. Both contracts traded up nearly 1 percent and down over 1 percent during the day. The Baghdad government recaptured territory across northern Iraq from Kurds on Tuesday, widening a campaign that has shifted the balance of power in the country. The fighting in one of Iraq's main oil-producing areas helped to restore a risk premium on oil prices, though officials said that oilfields in the region were operating normally. "The security premium built into prices from the (Iraqi-Kurdish) situation is in the process of vanishing," said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital LLC in New York. "Everyone is looking to see if the high level of (U.S.) crude oil exports will pull down inventories again," Kilduff said. Analysts forecast U.S. crude inventories declined by about 4.2 million barrels in the week to Oct. 13. The American Petroleum Institute (API), an industry trade group, will release U.S. weekly petroleum inventory data at 4:30 p.m. EDT (2030 GMT), ahead of the government's report on Wednesday. "Market participants will closely watch the rising oil-production profile in the United States and persistently high exports from the country factors that will continue to limit gains in oil prices," said Abhishek Kumar, senior energy analyst at Interfax Energys Global Gas Analytics in London. Tension between the United States and Iran is also rising, increasing the global risk premium for oil. U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday refused to certify Iran's compliance over a nuclear deal, leaving Congress 60 days to decide on further action against Tehran. During the previous round of sanctions against Iran, about 1 million bpd of oil was cut from global markets. "Oil and geopolitics are very much interlinked," Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency, told Reuters. "Oil security remains a critical issue." With supply cuts led by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) tightening the market, analysts have been raising their oil price forecasts. Birol said the rate of compliance by OPEC and its partners in their targeted cutting of about 1.8 million barrels per day between January this year and March 2018 was about 86 percent. Bank of America Merrill Lynch said it was raising its oil price forecasts. "We see Brent averaging $54 this quarter and $52.50 per barrel in 1H18, compared with our previous forecasts of $50 and $49.50 per barrel respectively," it said. (Additional reporting by Christopher Johnson in London and Henning Gloystein in Singapore; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Louise Heavens) Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt lashed out at the Obama administration on Tuesday for waging a war on the coal mining industry and defended the Trump administration's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. I think the better discussion is not to put artificial targets, like we did in the Paris [Agreement], that the past administration, with their own regulations, failed miserably to achieve, but to focus on what weve already done to reduce our CO2 footprint, and then export that technology to places like China and India, Pruitt told FOX Business Neil Cavuto on Cavuto: Coast to Coast. The Paris Climate Accord, signed by President Obama and 194 other nations in 2016, limits nations emissions of greenhouse gasses in an attempt to mitigate the effects of global warming. The earliest that the U.S. can leave the agreement is Nov. 4, 2020, which is the day after the next presidential election. Pruitt also lauded the decision to repeal Clean Power Plan, a signature regulatory program to curb emissions from coal-fired power plants passed by Obama, which he called a war on coal. It was a real war, he said. And the president said the war is over. And thats what I was there to announce to those folks there. As a regulator you shouldnt engage in any war in any sector of the economy. Last year, U.S. coal production reached a record low since 1978, but 2017 has signaled a turnaround for the industry. The nations coal output fell about 10% in 2015 and 17% in 2016, according to the Energy Information Administration. But during the first eight months of 2017, production levels rose by 14%. The Trump administration's decision to roll back the Obama-era policy could save 240 million tons of annual coal production, in addition to protect more than 27,000 mining jobs and the nearly 100,000 indirect jobs that rely on coal. Restrictions put in place by President Obamas administration not only hurt an already depressed coal industry, but failed to improve the environmental outcome that it purported to save, Pruitt said. From a mining sector perspective, he said, They would say to you its not just competition in the marketplace, it was the availed purpose by the previous administration to place burdens and restrictions on them that did not improve environmental outcome, but increased burden. A female showrunner is now accusing Harvey Weinsteins brother, Bob Weinstein, of sexual harassment, but the youngest Weinstein brother is denying the allegation. Amanda Segel, of the series The Mist, told Variety Bob Weinstein repeatedly came onto her despite her repeated refusals during the summer of 2016. No should be enough, Segel said to Variety. After no, anybody who has asked you out should just move on. Bob kept referring to me that he wanted to have a friendship. He didnt want a friendship. He wanted more than that. My hope is that no is enough from now on. The Weinstein Company executive denies Segels claims. Bob Weinstein had dinner with Ms. Segel in LA in June 2016. He denies any claims that he behaved inappropriately at or after the dinner. It is most unfortunate that any such claim has been made, a representative for Bob Weinstein told Variety. His laywer told The Hollywood Reporter, Varietys story about Bob Weinstein is riddled with false and misleading assertions by Ms. Segel and we have the emails to prove it, but even if you believe what she says it contains not a hint of any inappropriate touching or even any request for such touching," he said. "There is no way in the world that Bob Weinstein is guilty of sexual harassment, and even if you believed what this person asserts there is no way it would amount to that. Bob Weinstein, who is divorced, recently spoke out against his brother Harvey. Harvey Weinstein has been accused of raping, sexually assaulting and harassing women during his decades-long career. "I'm mortified and disgusted by my brother's actions," he told The Hollywood Reporter. "And I am sick for the victims. And I feel for them. I feel for them." A woman claims that after being sexually assaulted by a Hollywood producer, her friend, Carrie Fisher sent the man cow tongue as a warning. The story was recounted by Heather Ross to 94.9 Mix, who claims an Oscar-winning producer asked her about meeting up in person to discuss work. "I was overweight. It wasn't like I was a size 2 with huge, you know, anything," she recalled. The man allegedly sexually assaulted her in his car when they met up in person, Ross recalled. Fisher was among the people Ross told about the incident. The actress, she claims, "sent me a message online and said, 'I just saw [blank] at Sony Studios. I knew he would probably be there, so I went to his office and personally delivered a Tiffany box wrapped with a white bow.'" Ross says she asked her famous friend what was in the box. She claimed that Fisher told her, "It was a cow tongue from Jerrys Famous Deli in Westwood with a note that said, If you ever touch my darling Heather or any other woman again, the next delivery will be something of yours in a much smaller box.'" Hollywood producer Darryl F. Zanuck was legendary in the industry but not just for the movies he made. Zanuck worked his way through actresses on the sofa in his office faster than the credits rolled on his flicks, according to the tome The Zanucks of Hollywood: The Dark Legacy of a American Dynasty by Marlys Harris. His daily bedding of budding starlets operated like clockwork. At 4 p.m. every day, his Fox Century City studio would shut down while Zanuck shuttled a young woman through a subterranean passage to his green-paneled office, according to Harris and Deadline Hollywood. Anyone at the studio knew of the afternoon trysts, Harris wrote. He was not serious about any of the women. To him they were merely pleasurable breaks in the day like polo, lunch and practical jokes. In 1937, Zanuck won the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences first prestigious Thalberg award for producing. It was the same decade that Variety first used the now-ubiquitous term for the abuse of power that Zanuck and other Hollywood execs were perpetuating behind the scenes the casting couch, according to Slate. Years later, in 1975, Newsweek would do a story titled The Casting Couch in which it quoted the words on a plaque above the couch in the office of a Tinseltown producer in the 1950s: Dont forget, darling, tomorrow youre going to be a star. The mag wrote, Contemporary starlets no longer take sex-on-demand lying down. "Phoniness and failure were all over them. Some were vicious and crooked. But they were as near to the movies as you could get" Marilyn Monroe But things didnt change then, and they havent changed now. In the past two weeks alone, more than 30 women have come forward with stories of being propositioned, harassed or worse over the past three decades by powerhouse producer Harvey Weinstein. And hes only the latest Hollywood horndog. Marilyn Monroe once famously wrote in a memoir about the sexual predators in her industry. I met them all, she said. Phoniness and failure were all over them. Some were vicious and crooked. But they were as near to the movies as you could get. So you sat with them, listening to their lies and schemes. And you saw Hollywood with their eyes an overcrowded brothel, a merry-go-round with beds for horses. Movie moguls have preyed on the ambition of young hopefuls seemingly since the beginning of celluloid. Actress Joan Crawford, who got her start in the 1920s by dancing naked in arcade peep shows, only advanced her career by sleeping with every male star at MGM except Lassie, quipped fierce rival Bette Davis. According to ReelRundown.com, Even at the peak of [Crawfords] career, rumors continued to surface about how her loathed mother forced Crawford to work as a prostitute, make blue movies and sleep her way to the top. As with Zanuck the longtime head of 20th Century Fox the preferred perverted method of doing business at MGM allegedly came straight from the top. Studio head Louis B. Mayer terrorized Hollywoods women long before Harvey Weinstein, according to a recent headline in the UKs Telegraph. Mayer would direct a 16-year-old Judy Garland to sit on his lap, whereupon hed palm her left breast while telling her, You sing from the heart a creepy anecdote Garland recalled in a memoir. And an 11-year-old Shirley Temple got her first and, she thought, hilarious peek at the male anatomy courtesy of MGM producer Arthur Freed, who once dropped his pants during a meeting. Temple burst into laughter at the sight and was promptly ordered out of the room. Monroe was among those who allegedly suffered sexual abuse at the hands of her MGM handlers. In the 1950s, there was a valiant attempt to bring casting-couch incidents out of the shadows and expose them for what they were sex abuse. Two writers with a British fan magazine called Picturegoer tried to expose the industrys seedy underbelly in a four-part series called The Perils of Show Business. Their stories were filled with the same type of on-the-record accounts of power-grabbing sexual harassment that Weinstein would be accused of 60 years later. I "dont think any actress should be treated like that like a piece of meat at all" Helen Mirren This is the most depressing story we have ever written, the reporters wrote. For weeks, we have made our investigations over the lunch table, in studios, and from the depths of cozy armchairs. Gradually, we have built up a dossier of information, which, we believe, is an ugly scar on the glamorous face of show business. But while actresses Joy Webster, Dorinda Stevens, Anne Heywood and Marigold Russell allowed their names to be published, the dastardly bad guys remained anonymous. Russell, who appeared in bit roles in movies such as 1954s The Bells of St. Trinians, said girls trying to break into the business would pass around a set of rules in the hopes of preventing unwanted sexual attacks. One: When you have to talk business, stick to offices and office hours. Two: Refer invitations and offers to your agent. Three: Dont give your home phone number, give your agents, she said. But the casting couch is not just a distant memory involving long-gone stars and their abusers. Oscar-winner Dame Helen Mirren, who commands respect and awe wherever she goes today, has said that back in 1964, at the tender age of 19, she was just another plaything to director Michael Winner. Mirren, now 72, said she will never forget how, during an audition, Winner made her flaunt her body as he leered. I was mortified and incredibly angry, she told Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan in a 2007 television interview. I thought it was insulting and sexist, and I dont think any actress should be treated like that like a piece of meat at all. As Weinstein has downplayed his sexual aggressions, so did Winner, telling The Guardian he didnt remember ordering Mirren to turn around but if I did, I wasnt being serious. I was only doing what the [casting] agent asked me, and for this I get reviled! he insisted. Helens a lovely person, shes a great actress, and Im a huge fan, but her memory of that moment is a little flawed. Actress Joan Collins, warned by Monroe about the wolves in Hollywood, also wrote in her memoir that she missed out on the title role in 1963s Cleopatra, which went to Elizabeth Taylor, because she wouldnt sleep with Buddy Adler, the head of 20th Century Fox. I had tested for Cleopatra twice and was the front-runner, she said. He took me into his office and said, You really want this part? And I said, Yes. I really do. Well, he said, then all you have to do is be nice to me. It was a wonderful euphemism in the 60s for you know what. But I couldnt do that. In fact, I was rather wimpish, burst into tears and rushed out of his office. Other stories are even darker. Rosemarys Baby director Roman Polanski initially had sympathy when pregnant wife Sharon Tate was murdered in 1969. But then details emerged of how he gave a 13-year-old aspiring actress champagne and Quaaludes before having sex with her during a photo shoot in 1977, and the Los Angeles District Attorneys office stepped in. I didnt want to have sex, Samantha Geimer wrote in her memoir, The Girl. The Polish director fled the United States before final sentencing and still has an outstanding warrant on that charge. Eighties child stars Corey Feldman and Corey Haim also have said they were given drugs and passed around by male higher-ups when younger. Feldman told The Hollywood Reporterthat Haim, who died in 2010 at age 38, had more direct abuse than I did. With me, there were some molestations, and it did come from several hands, so to speak, but with Corey, his was direct rape, whereas mine was not actual rape, he said. And his also occurred when he was 11. My son is 11 now, and I cant even begin to fathom the idea of something like that happening to him. It can take years for such abuse to come to light, leaving victims silently suffering. Disgraced star Bill Cosby has been allegedly drugging and assaulting and raping countless women since the 1960s, but the accusations against him didnt surface for years. The same is true of Weinstein. More than 30 women have now come forward in the past two weeks with stories of being propositioned, harassed or worse by him over the past three decades. The accusations are so sickening that in recent days his wife left him, friends and political allies ditched him, his own company booted him, the organization that runs the Oscars voted to expel him and Frances president said he wants to strip him of his Legion of Honour award. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Board of Governors said in a statement after Saturdays vote to heave Weinstein, We do so . . . to send a message that the era of willful ignorance and shameful complicity in sexually predatory behavior and workplace harassment in our industry is over. If only that were true. Academy Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon revealed Monday that she was sexually assaulted when she was 16 years old and had "multiple experiences of harassment and sexual assault" throughout her Hollywood career. The Big Little Lies actress spoke Monday at the Elle Women in Hollywood event and shared her experiences with sexual misconduct in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein allegations. This has been a really hard week for women in Hollywood, for women all over the world, and a lot of situations and a lot of industries are forced to remember and relive a lot of ugly truths, Witherspoon said. I have my own experiences that have come back to me very vividly and I find it really hard to sleep, hard to think, hard to communicate a lot of the feelings that Ive been having about anxiety, honest, the guilt for not speaking up earlier." Witherspoon revealed, [I feel] true disgust at the director who assaulted me when I was 16 years old and anger at the agents and the producers who made me feel that silence was a condition of my employment." JENNIFER LAWRENCE: I WAS PLACED IN NUDE LINEUP, TOLD TO LOSE WEIGHT Witherspoon said she has "had multiple experiences" of sexual assault and was compelled by other women's stories to go public with her experiences, adding, "I actually felt less alone this week than I have ever felt in my entire career." The Home Again star said she has spoken to many actresses who have had experiences similar to hers and that she was proud of them for speaking out. I feel really, really encouraged that there will be a new normal. For the young women in this room, life is going to be different because were with you, we have your back and it makes me feel better. It makes me so sad to talk about these issues, but I would be remiss not to, she said. ANTHONY BOURDAIN BLASTS JAMES CORDEN OVER LATE NIGHT HOSTS CONTROVERSIAL WEINSTEIN JOKES Witherspoon did not name who assaulted or harassed her. At the same event, Jennifer Lawrence revealed in a speech that she was forced to participate in a degrading and humiliating lineup while naked and told to lose weight when she started her acting career. Witherspoon joins a growing list of actresses who have shared their personal experiences with sexual misconduct in Hollywood. The revelations followed the bombshell reports by The New York Times and The New Yorker, which detailed Weinsteins alleged sexual misconduct. The producer, who was once one of the most powerful men in Hollywood, was ousted from The Weinstein Company, which he founded with his brother Bob, and expelled from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences. The National Chicken Council (NCC) has filed a petition to rescind an Obama-era policy that allowed only 140 chickens to be slaughtered per minute a change the Obama administration denied after learning it would endanger workers and increase cross-contamination, according to NBC News. Yet, the NCC has requested the Food and Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) to implement a waiver that would permit establishments to slaughter chickens at any speed, as long as they are enrolled in the New Poultry Inspection System and the Salmonella Initiative Program. A repeal of the 140-bird cap would increase the industrys ability to compete in the global marketplace. Moreover, this deregulatory action would advance the Presidents objective to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens, the petition reads.There is no indication that higher line speeds would result in increased food safety or worker risk. But worker safety advocates are worried that increasing production speeds will have a negative effect on line workers, many of whom are immigrants and refugees already working under poor conditions, NBC News reports. A 2017 report by OSHA shows that in 29 states, poultry processing is already among the most dangerous industries even under the current policy. Out of ten companies, chicken giant Tyson Foods has the fourth-highest number of reported severe injuries or amputations, and Pilgrims Pride another meat and poultry company holds the sixth-highest spot. Poultry industry workers suffered a higher rate of serious injuries than much of the construction industry, auto industry, steel industry, saw mills, and other high-risk industries. Workers at Tyson Foods and Pilgrims Pride suffered amputations of fingers and hands when the companies failed to provide machine safety guards, adequate training, or mandatory protective equipment. Workers were sent to the hospital for fractured hips from slippery floors and burns from chemical leaks, the report reads. The workers who put food on our table should not have to sacrifice their health for a paycheck. Recently, Chuck E. Cheese announced that they were breaking up the robotic band that used to rock out on stage for dozens of pizza-fueled boys and girls. CHUCK E. CHEESE BIDS FAREWELL TO ANIMATRONIC BAND AMID RENOVATIONS The bottom line is that the animatronics they created decades ago were really cool and fun for that time. But kids today are living on their mobile phones, so this is probably pretty boring to them, said Phil Lempert, a Santa Monica-based expert on consumer behavior and marketing trends, to the Press Enterprise. Its something their grandfather would like, he added. Now grandfathers and everyone else can pick up a piece of that decades-old fun by heading to Visalia, CA, where a four-piece Beach Bowzers Band is available for purchase. The circa 1985 set, complete with Cabaret stage, has been listed on Craigslist by one central California collector. The pieces havent been used in a few years, the ad admits, but they come with the manuals and the original tapes including Beach Bowzers Ed Sullivan Cabaret, Beagles #3 Cabaret, and Beach Bowzers Diagnostics Cabarat. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS The $5000 life-size band is listed in good condition, but the seller says they dont know how to operate the group. But, if they do in fact work, these dogs make for one rocking good time and you dont even have to wear your 80s legwarmers. Unless you want to. A couple from the United Kingdom that was caught on surveillance footage having sex in a Dominos has been spared jail time. Daniella Hirst, 29, pleaded guilty last month to outraging public decency after she was spotted on security camera footage in February 2016 performing sexual acts with 31-year-old Craig Smith at a Dominos location in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, according to BBC News. Smith was found guilty of the same offense in September. The couple was reportedly waiting for stuffed crust pizza when they let their exuberant spirits get the better of them, and had oral sex and sexual intercourse for 18 minutes against a counter inside the popular pizza chain. During a police interview, Hirst reportedly "cringed" when she watched footage of what she called "horrendous" behavior, which was made public when a store staff member posted it to Twitter. The couple was very close to going to prison, magistrates in Scarborough said, according to the BBC. However, both Hirst and Smith were not sentenced any jail time. The two were both given 12-month community orders and a six-month curfew which prohibits them from leaving their houses between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. Smith was also ordered to perform 200 hours of community service. RICHMOND, Va. On an unseasonably warm Friday morning in October, Dr. Omar Abubaker paced in front of a small lecture hall at Virginia Commonwealth Universitys dental school. The 64-year-old oral surgeon, whose sharp gray suit matched his wavy hair, quipped about his caffeine habit as he gave his third-year students a crash course on the recent history of addiction in America. Then he took a more serious tone. Raise your hand, he said, if youve ever read scientific literature about addiction. The scores of scrub-clad students white and black, mothers and fathers, former nurses and future surgeons silently looked around the lecture hall. No one raised a hand. Everything you know about addiction is actually from TV, right? Abubaker said. Newspaper, Facebook YouTube? A student chuckled a tacit acknowledgment that what she heard rang true. Theres a disease out there that youll deal with thats more likely than hypertension, he continued. You have no knowledge about [it]. Four years ago, the chair of VCUs School of Dentistry was nearly as clueless as his students about the nature of addiction. For more than two decades, he had paid little mind to his own prescribing patterns and, like many in his field, did little to train his students about exposing patients to addictive painkillers. He did so despite the fact that dentists prescribe opioids at a rate higher than nearly every other specialty, responsible for writing 1 out of every 8 prescriptions for immediate-release opioids nationwide. Prescription opioids, in turn, are widely considered the root of a national opioid crisis thats caused more than 300,000 deaths since 2000. On Oct. 2, 2014, however, that crisis hit home. His 21-year-old son, Adam, died after overdosing on a mixture of drugs including heroin a path that Abubaker suspects started after a surgeon prescribed his son opioids after a shoulder procedure. I had been consumed with keeping him alive without attempting to know more about addiction, Abubaker recalled. Grief drove him on a search for answers, ultimately making him more and more aware of how naive he was about substance use disorders. Read more: Dope Sick: A harrowing story of best friends, addiction and a stealth killer As he grew more knowledgeable, Abubaker not only scaled back the number of pills he prescribed to patients, but also reconfigured VCUs curriculum to include a frank discussion of how addiction can be prevented, how to spot it, and how to direct patients to treatment. Now hes fighting to get dental schools nationwide to incorporate similar lessons into their curricula in hopes that the next generation of dentists can do better than his own. We got it all wrong, he said. Its difficult to change patterns and behaviors of people who practice for five or 10 years. But Im optimistic we will graduate a generation of dentists way ahead of where we are today. The Tuesday after Thanksgiving 2013, Abubakers three grown children made a surprise visit to his house. They asked if he could talk about a problem involving his youngest son. Whats the problem? Abubaker asked. Adams using drugs, one of them said. What kind? Heroin. Abubaker was floored. The oral surgeon never expected Adam a straight-laced volunteer firefighter who acted years beyond his age was at risk of becoming addicted to drugs. A native of Libya, Abubaker had never used drugs because of his Islamic faith, and didnt drink alcohol until around the age of 40. In my culture, touching alcohol is a sin, its seen as a weakness, he said. How do I come through Facebook to explain [Adams substance use disorder] to my family? They might see it at home, as reflecting poorly on me. Adam entered treatment, with his fathers support, and stayed off drugs for most of 2014, later enrolling in courses to become a certified emergency medical technician. But on the morning of Sept. 27, Abubaker received the call no parent wants to get. Adam was on life support after overdosing on a combination of heroin and benzodiazepine. Abubaker spent day and night at the hospital until Adam died the following week. In the months that followed, Abubaker retraced the warning signs and second-guessed his parenting choices. He cried in the quiet of his home whenever CNN aired an opioid segment. He turned to a grief therapist to make sense of it all. But it was his wife who found his saving grace: a postgraduate degree program in addiction studies. The courses were revelatory. He learned how drugs altered the brain, and how dependency can lead to substance use disorder. And he thought back on all the prescriptions for Percocet hed written over the years, after extracting teeth or performing corrective jaw surgeries. I started looking at my pattern of prescriptions first, then my colleagues, then my residents, he said. [And I remember] how I used to [think] people deserved as many pain meds as they wanted. My God. Since completing his addiction studies program last year, Abubaker has spoken to hundreds of dentists at conferences and smaller professional association meetings. Hes also conducted research on whether prescribers knowledge of addiction impacts the size of their prescriptions. And hes retooled VCUs four-year curriculum to focus more heavily on addiction. Today, Abubaker teaches second-year students about nerve damage, the expected duration of pain, and non-narcotic pain relievers far beyond past courses simple focus on what you give and how many, he said. Third-year students learn to understand addiction, identify potential signs in their patients, and make addiction treatment referrals. Opioids can be effective for some patients, Abubaker stresses to students, but should be used with the utmost caution. And sometimes, if the tenor of the classroom feels right, Abubaker will share the story of his son, to underscore just how much is at stake. Abubaker has grown into a zealous advocate against overprescribing at the same time as his field has reckoned with the subject. For instance, after only modest declines in opioid prescribing between 2007 and 2012, dentists and oral surgeons in New York have scaled back their use of opioid painkillers in part due to policies like prescription drug monitoring programs, studies found. And universities are increasingly pressing those lessons upon students. In Massachusetts, Ronald Kulich, a professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and Dr. David Keith, an oral surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital who teaches at Harvard, have helped insert lessons on skills like preventing opioid misuse or providing referrals to patients struggling with substance use disorder. In other states like Illinois and Minnesota , dental schools are testing out different ways to educate students on opioids. Historically, the risks of treating pain have been minimally covered, said Kulich. Its starting to change in dentistry, as it is in medicine, from being covered minimally in the curriculum. Theres some movement on a national level as well. In August 2017, the Commission on Dental Accreditation, the body responsible for dental education curriculum standards, ruled that it would immediately require dental school graduates to be competent in considering the impact of prescribing practices and substance use disorder on their patients. Later that month, Abubaker, Kulich, and a handful of other dental school professors met with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration officials to figure out how best to manage pain without unnecessarily exposing patients to opioids and how to potentially implement this education in dental school classrooms nationwide. But theres a long way to go. A study published last year in Substance Abuse found that fewer than half of dentists conducted screenings for substance abuse or relied on prescription drug monitoring programs. And a national survey of dentists published in Addiction in 2015 found that two-thirds said screening patients for substance use shouldnt be part of their job. The public is moving fast in changing their mindset, Abubaker said. Its practitioners that are dragging behind. After his Friday morning lecture, Abubaker strolls over to the VCU School of Dentistrys clinic. In addition to teaching, he still sees patients at least twice a week meaning he has had plenty of opportunity to put his new prescribing philosophy into practice. He pops in and out of exam rooms wearing his blue gown and mask. In one room he greets 21-year-old college student John Strickland, whose cheeks are still swollen two weeks after his corrective jaw surgery. How was the pain? Abubaker asked. Its good, said Strickland, who is taking liquid ibuprofen twice a day after finishing a small number of opioids, back when his pain was more severe. Before the surgery, Abubaker discussed with Strickland what sort of pain he might feel and why hell limit his opioid prescription. I didnt need more, Strickland said. Read more: Who treats you matters: Some ER doctors three times more likely than others to prescribe opioids A little later in the day Abubaker examines Jeyda Tolliver, a 15-year-old high school student whose underbite limits her ability to chew food and causes her jaw to pop frequently. Shes nervous her feet fidget at first because shed heard from her orthodontist that surgery would require breaking her jaw for the purposes of repositioning it. Dont worry, Abubaker said. He assures the procedure known as an orthognathic surgery requiring one-millimeter incisions to her jaw followed by the insertion of titanium plates and screws wont be that painful. Dental resident Bryan Wheeler sits in the exam room and observes the conversation. Abubaker likes to have students stay in the room so that they can learn from the way he establishes patients expectations about pain management. We dont give as much medication, Abubaker told Tolliver. Youve probably heard about people having problems Yes, Tolliver said. The opioids Abubaker urges her to try a non-narcotic painkiller after her surgery first. If it doesnt work, hed write her a prescription for around five opioid pills, noting that some of his patients only take one or two to avoid the risks. She wont suffer, he assured her. He wants her to stay safe. People from all walks of life blacks and whites, yellow and brown like me have had problems with opioids, he explained. It has nothing to do with where you live, or where you came from. You could be the president. You could be the son of a doctor. The family of a 27-year-old California man who died on Sunday after spending four days on life support said he suffered an asthma attack potentially linked to the North Bay wildfires. Joshua Hoefer was reportedly trying to use his inhaler when he told his girlfriend, Cierra Lopez, to dial 911, according to KTVU.com. Lopez said he was rushed to Memorial Hospital in Santa Rosa, where he was placed on life support. A spokeswoman said he was unresponsive upon arrival and pronounced brain dead shortly after, KTVU.com reported. While a doctor said a coroner would determine the official cause of death, Lopez claims Hoefers attack occurred while they were packing up to evacuate due to the wildfires. MYSTERIOUS ILLNESS CAUSES BOY TO SLEEP FOR 11 DAYS That day he just said, We need to go my asthma is getting really bad, she told KTVU.com. Anybody who is having any problems breathing, they should stay clear, and if they have anywhere else to go where there is no smoke, they should do that. The fires have killed at least 40 people across Northern California, while Sonoma County Sheriff Rob Giordano said 88 residents remain missing. Giordano said teams are doing targeted searches and National Guard troops are assisting in efforts to locate residents who may have stayed behind. We dont want to miss a person, he said, according to KTVU.com. If we have an area we want to bring people into, we are going to search every part of that area for a victim we dont know about. That is what the National Guard is doing for us. Thats whats taking us time to clear some of the burned areas as well. Lopez and Hoefer had a 5-year-old son. Lopez said she started a GoFundMe page to help cover their losses from the fire. A Nebraska man facing an assisted suicide charge in his Florida girlfriends death believed she had stage-four cancer, but an autopsy did not find any tumors. Matthew J. Stubbendieck, 41, of Weeping Water, Neb., was charged last week in the death of Alicia Wilemon-Sullivan, 38, of Orange City, Fla., the Cass County Sheriffs Office said. Stubbendieck told authorities his girlfriend killed herself and led them to her body Aug. 5 in a wooded area near Weeping Water, about 25 miles southwest of Omaha. The couple arranged for Wilemon-Sullivan to fly to Nebraska from her home near Orlando to commit suicide on Aug. 1, authorities said. Stubbendieck told police he believed his girlfriend had stage-four cancer in the lymph nodes of her neck, armpit and stomach, but a pathologist who performed an autopsy did not report any cancerous masses or tumors, court records stated. HUNDREDS CELEBRATE BROCKTOBER WITH 7-YEAR-OLD BATTLING BRAIN CANCER Stubbendieck said he never accompanied Wilemon-Sullivan to her medical appointments. He said he did not think she had a regular doctor, but that she had been diagnosed and treated in emergency rooms. The couple texted about her death, and Wilemon-Sullivan left her children with a friend and said she was going on vacation to Key West, records stated. Stubbendieck reportedly accompanied his girlfriend to Schramm State Park but returned to Weeping Water after they saw a park worker. They walked in the woods to an area called Acapulco Lake on Aug. 5, and he remained with her for several hours as she tried to kill herself, court records stated. Stubbendieck tried to suffocate his girlfriend twice while she slept but stopped because she appeared to be suffering, authorities said. She was still able to whisper when he left her around 9:30 p.m. Stubbendieck returned the next afternoon and found Wilemon-Sullivan dead, but he did not call police until three days later, court records stated. Authorities said the cause of death was inconclusive, but an autopsy found no sign of blunt force trauma and concluded that cuts on her forearms and wrists appeared to be self-inflicted. Wilemon-Sullivan also had alcohol, painkillers and cold medicine in her system, it found. MYSTERIOUS ILLNESS CAUSES BOY TO SLEEP FOR 11 DAYS Stubbendieck told his girlfriends mother, Shirley Wilemon, that her daughter took a bunch of pills and, before he knew it, she slit her wrists and died in his arms in a wooded area somewhere in Alaska, the Omaha World Herald reported. Stubbendieck told authorities he initially promised not to tell anyone about her death until five or six months later but changed his mind because the secret was "destroying his family," court records show. Stubbendieck was being held at Cass County Jail and his bail was set at $50,000 Tuesday morning. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A 7-year-old boy's mysterious medical issue that caused him to sleep for 11 days straight has puzzled the doctors working to treat him. Wyatt Shaw, 7, served as a ring bearer at a relative's wedding in early October and fell asleep after a long day of celebrating, WDRB reported. "He was perfectly fine," Rhonda Thompson, the boy's grandmother, told The News-Enterprise. "He danced all night. He was so outgoing. He has just got the sweetest nature." But when Amy Shaw, the boy's mother, went to wake him the next morning, she realized something was wrong. He reportedly complained of a stomach ache and said his head hurt. I tried to wake him up, and he fell back to sleep, Shaw, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, told the news station. "[I'd say,] 'Wyatt, Wyatt, Wyatt!' And he fell back to sleep again." HUNDREDS CELEBRATE 'BROCKTOBER' WITH 7-YEAR-OLD BATTLING BRAIN CANCER Shaw took her son to the doctor and was immediately sent to Norton Children's Hospital in Louisville, where he continued to sleep for 10 additional days, The News-Enterprise reported. Doctors initially suspected a virus or bacteria. Every test they did came back clear," Shaw said. Wyatt was eventually given medication typically used to treat seizures, which helped to wake him, but they still can't figure out what caused him to fall into such a deep sleep. He's also having trouble walking and talking, WDRB reported. "[The doctors] said, 'We'll probably never know, but we're just going to treat him now with rehab to get him better,'" Shaw said, adding that her son is still recovering in the hospital. For this new mom, what were supposed to be the happiest days of her life quickly escalated into a terrifying ordeal that left her as a quadruple amputee. Lindsey Hubley, from Canada, didnt seem to face any complications when she gave birth in March, but just four days later she was back in the hospital battling a dangerous flesh-eating disease, according to CTV News. The 33-year-old mom took legal action Wednesday against IWK Health Center and several doctors in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for alleged negligence. Hubley said that she returned to the hospital with stomach pains the day after bringing her newborn son home. Doctors, however, blamed the stomach ache on constipation and sent her home. The next day, Hubley was rushed to the hospital and into emergency surgery for what was later diagnosed as an infection called necrotizing fasciitis. Hubley has since undergone multiple surgeries, which included having her legs and arms amputated and a total hysterectomy. Having her watch the two of us leave and her sitting there for the rest of the night by herself in the hospital is absolutely tortuous, her fiance Matt Sampson told CTV News. If it was just feet, it would be one thing. If it was just arms, it would be another thing. But theres about nine different things were dealing with. Seven months later, Hubley said she remains mostly bedridden at a medical center. Her lawyer claimed in the suit that the traumatic episode was one that could have been avoided. Our allegations are that had she been properly assessed when she presented at the hospital a substantial part of the damage, if not all of it, could have been prevented, her lawyer Ray Wagner told the Canadian Press. Click for more from the New York Post. The scariest thing this Halloween for New York moms isnt zombies or ghouls its politically incorrect costumes. An article on raceconscious.org by Sachi Feris has been making the rounds on mommy Facebook groups. Feris writes that her 5-year-old daughter declared she wanted to be Polynesian Disney character Moana, which she worried would be cultural appropriation. Her daughters other choice: Scandinavian Queen Elsa from the Disney movie Frozen. I had some reservations regarding both costume choices about cultural appropriation and the power/privilege carried by Whiteness, and about Whiteness and standards of beauty, she wrote. Feris went on to describe a series of conversations with her daughter, particularly focusing on the ethics of dressing as Moana, who as a teen sets out on a treacherous sea journey to save her familys island from famine and destruction and succeeds. In the end, Feriss daughter decided to dress as Elsa though Feris was concerned it might teach her short-haired brunette daughter that one must be white, blue-eyed and have long flaxen hair to be a beautiful princess. But she nixed the Moana costume for Mickey Mouse, because, as Ferris wrote, we dont have to worry about making fun of anyone or dressing up as a culture different from our own because Mickey Mouse is a pretend mouse! One thing is for sure, our discussions around appropriate and inappropriate Halloween costumes will continue, concluded Feris. Her blog was almost universally praised by commenters. Yvette Brown, wrote: I admire your perseverance in interacting with your daughter. You also have given her essential values along with guidelines so she has the opportunity to grow, be creative, learn and find her way in the world. But another commenter named Amanda expressed reservations. This feels murky, she wrote. I recognize the need to be sensitive, Im just wondering how you parse the nuances for a child. Meanwhile, a New York mom of one daughter told The Post: I think its silly to take childrens Halloween costumes so seriously. Theyre kids, cant they just be kids and not involved with the whole political correctness thing? Parents need to chill out a little bit. This article originally appeared on the New York Post. Sorry, dog and cat breeders: If you live in California, you can no longer sell your animals in pet stores. Thanks to bill A.B. 485 which was signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown last Friday, the Golden State is now the first to require pet stores to sell animals from shelters and rescue centers only. The law, which primarily applies to dogs, cats and rabbits, means that pet stores can no longer sell animals that were commercially raised in puppy mills or kitten factories, according to the New York Times. HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR PETS AFTER YOU DIE AND WHAT YOU SHOULD NEVER DO The bill, which was first introduced in February, was written by California State Assembly members Patrick ODonnell and Matt Dababneh, according to the newspaper. The law goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2019. Animal advocates have praised the new legislation. This is a great law. California is setting the standard and elevating the status of pets in society by targeting the puppy mills and elevating shelter pets as a place in homes, Elena Bicker, executive director at Tony La Russas Animal Rescue Foundation, first told ABC News. Private breeders can still sell animals independently, according to ABC News. But some argue that the new legislation will impact their business, especially if they own a pet store. MOM TRANSFORMS DAUGHTER'S BEDROOM INTO DOG'S ROOM WHILE SHE'S AT COLLEGE Ben Ashel, a pet store owner in Agoura Hills, Calif., told the New York Times that the law will only push customers to find other avenues to buy the type of dog breed they want such as ordering a dog online, for example. It takes the freedom of choice away from people who want to get a puppy. They dont want to get someone elses unwanted dog or something of that nature, he said. They just want to start fresh with a puppy, and this law makes it very, very difficult. Ashel, whose pet store is called Puppy Heaven, added that he isnt sure what he will do once the law goes into effect. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS Additionally, the American Kennel Club has released a statement that opposes the law. "It not only interferes with individual freedoms, it also increases the likelihood that a person will obtain a pet that is not a good match for their lifestyle and the likelihood that that animal will end up in a shelter," the organization said in a statement, according to ABC News. Looking to capitalize on the rising demand for cannabis, Northern Michigan University is offering a marijuana-focused degree but stoners need not apply. Obviously, the program is new and different and it might speak to a certain crowd. But for a student to succeed, theyre going to have to be very dedicated and motivated, Brandon Canfield, associate chemistry professor, told the Detroit Free Press of the medicinal plant chemistry Bachelor of Science degree. This is not an easy program. Its a really intense, biology chemistry program, Canfield added. He noted that while students wont grow marijuana plants in the program, they do study similar plants with medicinal value. TODDLER HOSPITALIZED AFTER INGESTING MARIJUANA The public university in the Great Lakes State launched the program for the fall 2017 semester, with about a dozen students currently enrolled. In addition to courses in chemistry, biology, botany and horticulture, students will also study marketing and finance, the paper reported. When they hear what my major is, there are a lot of people who say, Wow, cool dude. Youre going to get a degree growing marijuana,'" said sophomore Alex Roth, a student of the program. But its not an easy degree at all. DELTA PASSENGER CLAIMS EDIBLE MARIJUANA MADE HIM PUNCH FLIGHT ATTENDANT While other colleges and universities offer classes or certificates in marijuana policy and law, Northern Michigan breaks ground to offer the first four-year degree dedicated to the science and business of growing marijuana. Canfield was inspired to design the curriculum after attending the American Chemical Societys annual meeting last year and hearing about the need for analytical chemists. University officials believe that the program fills a growing need. To date, 29 states have legalized medical marijuana, including the eight states where marijuana is also permissible for recreational use, Fox 6 Now reports. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS Many of the states are legalizing different substances and theyre really looking for quality people to do the chemistry and the science, university trustee James Haveman said to the Detroit Free Press. And its the universitys responsibility to produce those kinds of students for those kinds of jobs. Evidently, Northern Michigan Universitys chemistry department made a shrewd move in launching the program. Weve had an overwhelming response from growing operations, dispensaries and other businesses who want to take on our students as interns, Canfield said. The Air Force has punished a highly-decorated and respected colonel after he refused to publicly affirm the same-sex spouse of a retiring subordinate. Click here for a free subscription to Todds newsletter: a must-read for Conservatives! Col. Leland Bohannon, who was on the verge of being promoted to a one-star general, was suspended from command and orders were handed down recommending he not be promoted. His career is likely over and he will likely have to retire as a colonel instead of as a general, First Liberty Institute attorney Michael Berry told the Todd Starnes Show. Click here for a free subscription to Americas fastest-growing Conservative Podcast! First Liberty Institute, one of the nations most prominent religious liberty law firms, is representing the distinguished military officer. This sends a clear message - if you do not have the politically correct viewpoint, you are not welcome in the military, Berry said. The military is no longer a place of diversity and inclusion if you are a person who holds to a traditional belief on marriage. If a metaphor could be used for this White House, it might be a two-sided coin with President Trump the head and Vice President Mike Pence the tail. The president tends toward the bombastic to get peoples attention and make his points, while his vice president is calm and measured in his response to questions, sometimes resembling a contemplative monk. In many ways they complement each other. During an interview Thursday, the vice president said tax reform is now the administrations top domestic priority and that we have the best opportunity between now and the end of the year to do that. He believes it will get done. Why the optimism? Because, he says, there is broad-based and more than a little bipartisan support for tax relief to get this economy growing again. Pence thinks the failure to repeal ObamaCare in 2017 has created (an) even greater sense of urgency. Theres a great sense of anticipation among the American public. I think members of Congress are very aware of that. Would he care to comment on the Harvey Weinstein story everyone is talking about? Pence smiles and demurs, possibly adopting the philosophy that when your liberal political enemies are destroying themselves, why get in the way by changing the subject? What about ObamaCare and the failure of Republicans to repeal and replace it, leading to a number of executive orders (issued Thursday) to address what the president feels is the harm caused by that law? Pence predicts the Senate will go along with the House next spring when a new budget bill comes up for consideration. The word we got from Senators (Lisa) Murkowski, R-Alaska, and (John) McCain, R-Ariz., was very favorable toward the Graham-Cassidy bill, which would have repealed the individual mandate, repealed the business mandate and block grant(ed) resources back to the states. Their attitude on the substance was very favorable, but both of them wanted to give the Senate time to go through the committee process, the hearing process, for full floor consideration and amendments. What about Iran and the decertification of the nuclear deal made during the Obama administration? Pence said the president considers the deal a disaster agreement for the United States. From the White House on Friday, the president announced he was decertifying the deal, imposing new sanctions and asking our allies and Congress to address the deals serious flaws. North Korea? Pence notes how truly remarkable he believes it is that there is a global consensus around a commitment to a nuclear-free Korean peninsula. What weve seen from the Kim regime in recent months is a series of provocations and a nuclear missile test I believe has created an environment that has made it possible for us to forge not only stronger relations with our allies in the region, but given President Trumps strong relationship with President Xi of China, weve seen China take action regarding North Korea that theyve never taken before (including) cutting off access to financial institutions in China. I ask if a nuclear-free Korean peninsula and getting Kim to stop production of nuclear weapons can be achieved without war and get the standard answer the president has given: We remain hopeful well be able to achieve it by economic and diplomatic means, but all options are on the table. As might be expected of a loyal vice president, Pence suggests the president is not getting the credit he thinks he deserves for undoing some of the policies of previous administrations, attempting to loosen the grip of ISIS in Iraq and for his businessmans approach to government, emphasizing more private-sector jobs and relaxing or eliminating unnecessary regulations that stifle economic growth. Would he care to comment on the Harvey Weinstein story everyone is talking about? He smiles and demurs, possibly adopting the philosophy that when your liberal political enemies are destroying themselves, why get in the way by changing the subject? On the way out of the White House Mess where we had lunch, Pence pauses to admire a model of an old ship. To employ a nautical phrase, Mike Pence is a calming influence on sometimes stormy political seas. He may be President Trumps greatest political and personal asset. Editor's Note: This first appeared on The Resurgent. I know how this works. Say something unfavorable to the president and youve never gotten over being Never Trump. Say something kind and youve sold out. Trump Derangement Syndrome works both ways. There are those who can never, ever commend the actions of the president and there are those who can never, ever find fault. Both are apologists to a particularly partisan madness. Many times this president does dumb things, mean things, and wrong things. But sometimes he gets things right. Rarely does this president get so much right over a couple of weeks. This is one of those times. For those keeping score at home, President Trump has kicked the immigration ball back to Congress where the Constitution says it belongs. His staff may be working to sabotage any deal, but the deal should be structured in Congress, not the White House, according to the Constitution. President Trump has also refused to certify the deal with Iran. It is particularly bemusing to watch many vocal opponents of the Iran Deal decry the presidents actions given how long theyve wanted the deal scrapped. But because it was President Trump doing it, suddenly they oppose the very thing they have long wanted. Despite the cry from the left, President Trump did a great thing here. He has also scrapped the ObamaCare birth control mandate that penalized Christians and others. Republicans have supported a plan to allow birth control over the counter, without a prescription, but the left is opposed to that. The presidents actions expose how the left is really not concerned with access to birth control and is really in the pocket of the abortion lobby. Much of the criticism of President Trump over the ObamaCare subsidies has everything to do with preserving Obamas legacy and nothing to do with the substance of what President Trump did or why. Last, but certainly not least, President Trump ended the ObamaCare subsidies for insurance companies. Almost every media outlet except Fox has badly misreported the facts. Federal courts had already determined President Obama had no power to issue those subsidies. Congress had sued. So two out of three branches of government said the president had no power to do that and President Trump has now conceded the fight instead of defying a court order. These are all good and commendable things and the president deserves praise for them. Many on the right who hate him will not give him the thanks he deserves, but hes done great on these issues. Most notable, I think, is what Stephen Miller (not the presidents advisor) noted on Twitter. Much of the criticism of President Trump over the ObamaCare subsidies has everything to do with preserving Obamas legacy and nothing to do with the substance of what President Trump did or why. I would say this extends to the other issues as well. President Obamas legacy can be so easily undone because he did it all without congressional legislation. President Trump should pay attention to that. Editor's Note: This first appeared in The Hill. An old proverb says a leader with no followers is only taking a walk. If thats the case, then the strutting President Trump has turned his presidency into a very lonely walk. A Morning Consult poll released last week found Trump losing support in states he easily carried last year. He is down 23 points in Tennessee since his inauguration in January, down 21 points in Mississippi, down 20 in Kentucky, down 19 in Kansas and down 17 in Indiana. Overall, 55 percent of the country disapproves of the job he is doing as president, according the most recent RealClearPolitics average. At the three-quarter mark of his first year in office, Trump is the least popular new president in history. On Capitol Hill, House and Senate Republicans are also walking away from Trump. A new Quinnipiac poll last week found that 49 percent of voters disapprove of the way Trump is handling taxes and just 37 percent approve. In part, this is due to his attacks on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis. Then there are the threats to incumbent Republicans from Stephen Bannon, formerly Trumps chief strategist. Bannon said last week he plans to challenge incumbent Republican senators in seven states, including Arizonas Jeff Flake, Mississippis Roger Wicker, Nebraskas Deb Fischer, Nevadas Dean Heller and Wyomings John Barrasso. Creating a civil war inside the Republican Party may feel good, but I think as a strategy, it is stunningly stupid, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, R-Ga., said of Bannons plan. Speaking on Sean Hannitys radio show, Gingrich stated the obvious: It would be better for the GOP if the president and his allies spent their time trying to beat incumbent Democratic senators. Instead, Trump has whipped up a very public feud with Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker, R-Tenn. Trump tweeted that Corker lacks the guts to seek reelection. Trump also belittled Corker as having begged for his endorsement. Corker denied that, shooting back that it is a shame the White House has become an adult day care center. He added that Trump has hurt U.S. foreign relations with his impetuous tweets on world affairs, including things that are not true. Rather than let it go, Trump responded by tweeting: The Failing @nytimes set Liddle' Bob Corker up by recording his conversation. Was made to sound a fool, and that's what I am dealing with! Corker was not set up by the Times. A transcript showed the senator stating, I understand were on the record. Now, commentators who are open to Trump are starting to walk away from his parade as well. Last time I checked, you are the president of the United States, so tweeting out these tacky insults just seems beneath you, Neil Cavuto of Fox News said on his show last week. You are running out of friends faster than you are running out of time. You might not like Bob Corker, but a lot of senators do, and you need those senators, sir. Even Trumps personal friends are turning away from him. Thomas Barrack told The Washington Post he was shocked and stunned by Trumps recent comments. I tell him all the time: I dont like the rhetoric, said Barrack, who has been friends with Trump for decades, since they were both Manhattan real estate developers. To win back some followers, Trump needs a win. Polls show Americans favor tax reform. They want a simpler tax structure, fewer brackets and loopholes to be closed. Trump repeatedly promised to deliver tax reform during the campaign. But once again he is strutting with no one behind him as he abandons tax reform. He is focused on tax cuts for the rich. Polls show that is not popular. The New York Times analysis of the tax cut plan concluded it would be a huge windfall for the wealthiest Americans and not directly benefit the bottom third of the population. Polls show Americans oppose tax cuts for the rich. A new Quinnipiac poll last week found that 49 percent of voters disapprove of the way Trump is handling taxes and just 37 percent approve. Trump has also failed to deliver on his campaign promise to build a southern border wall and have Mexico pay for it. He continues to say it will get done. But, again, polls show voters dont want a wall. Similarly, Trump seems unaware that a majority of Americans now approve of the Affordable Care Act, also known as ObamaCare, and want its problems fixed so it can continue. Instead, having failed to win a full repeal of the health care law from the Republican majority in Congress, he signed an executive order allowing low-cost insurance to be sold across state lines. That has been tried before and has a sad history of consumer fraud and regulatory confusion. So its no wonder Trump now walks alone. He remains a celebrity figure for his hardcore base. But 10 months into his presidency, Republicans are starting to drift away as he fails to deliver on nearly every major campaign promise he made. Thats not my opinion. Thats a demonstrable fact. The only way not to see Trump as a failure is to close your eyes to what all of us can see. Its unfortunate and profoundly disappointing Congress proved itself incapable of repealing and replacing ObamaCare. But for lower-income Americans who feel the pain of this law each day, thats all the more reason for Congress to exempt them from one of ObamaCares cruelest provisions: the individual mandate. Intended to force young invincibles to buy insurance, in practice, the mandate has forced millions of people to get by with even less. Currently, the law requires every working-age American to buy health insuranceor pay a penalty equal to 2.5 percent of household income or about $700, whichever is greater. The majority of well-off families get insurance through their employer, so for them, the mandate is irrelevant. The mandate is simply a tax on Americans who cant afford insurance. This is a moral outrage, and the public agrees: 66 percent of Americans oppose the mandate, according to a 2017 YouGov poll. But for those who must buy coverage on ObamaCares exchangeswhere premiums have doubled since the laws passagethe mandate penalty ends up being a bargain. Consider: For a 30-year-old, the average premium for the least generous bronze plan on an ObamaCare exchange is $311 per month while the average deductible is a whopping $6,092 per year. In other words, he or she will have to spend close to $10,000$4,000 a year just for the privilege of having insurance and an additional $6,000before coverage even kicks in. Theres not much competition to drive down prices. In almost half of all counties in the United States, only one insurer offers plans on the exchanges; what you see is what youre stuck with. This is not a phenomenon that is, as some have suggested, isolated to rural counties. The five counties that make up the Philadelphia metro area are served by only one insurance company on the exchange. The choice facing these Americans is cleareither pay thousands of dollars for overpriced insurance or pay significantly less for nothing at all. Faced with this choice, almost 6.7 million households were forced to pay the penalty last year. Whats especially cruel is that the mandate falls mostly on those who can least afford it. Nearly 80 percent of Americans who paid the penalty last year made less than $50,000. Even worse, tens of thousands of them earned less than $10,000. The mandate is simply a tax on Americans who cant afford insurance. This is a moral outrage, and the public agrees: 66 percent of Americans oppose the mandate, according to a 2017 YouGov poll. The mandates few defenders say it is necessary to keep insurance viable and that without it, Americans wont buy insurance until they get sick, causing a death spiral as fewer healthy people contribute to the pool and more sick people draw from it. Lets look at the facts. In 2010, when ObamaCare became law, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that 21 million people would enroll in the exchangeslargely due to the mandate. In reality, less than half the original projection10.4 millionsigned up despite the fact that the prior administration doubled its advertising budget to encourage people to enroll. Even one of ObamaCares chief architects, Jonathan Gruber, admitted in a recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine that the mandate has had little impact on overall coverage rates. The mandate has fallen far short of expectations while hurting the working poor more than it is helping them. This is why we have introduced legislation to give millions of Americans much-needed relief. Our bill, the Mandate Relief Act, would exempt any American from the individual mandate if he or she falls into one of three categories: he or she earns less than the national median household income, which today is $59,039; fewer than two insurers offer plans on the local exchange; or his or her states average premiums have increased in the last year by at least ten percent. It also would lift ObamaCares restrictions on health savings accounts to make it easier for working families to meet their out-of-pocket costs. Our bill is something both parties can rally around. It provides timely, targeted relief to the working class, and it doesnt dismantle ObamaCare. We have both heard personally from our constituents in Arkansas and Pennsylvania who have suffered needlessly under the penalty. It is time we relieved them of this cruel, pointless mandate. The FBI released documents Monday proving former FBI Director James Comey began drafting a letter regarding Hillary Clinton's email investigation months before conducting several key interviews, including speaking to Clinton herself. The document release was titled Drafts of Director Comeys July 5, 2016 Statement Regarding Email Server Investigation Part 01 of 01. The contents of the email were largely unclear as nearly all of it was redacted. The now-public records show the email titled Midyear Exam --- UNCLASSIFIED was sent by Comey on May 2, 2016, to Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, general counsel James Baker and chief of staff and senior counselor James Rybicki. On May 16, the documents showed a response email from Rybicki, saying Please send me any comments on this statement so we may roll into a master doc for discussion with the Director at a future date. Thanks, Jim. TRUMP SLAMS CLINTON FOR DEFENDING NFL ANTHEM KNEELERS, SAYS THAT THINKING IS WHY SHE LOST The existence of the documents, reported by Newsweek, were first brought to light by Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., also a member of the committee, after they reviewed transcripts of interviews with top Comey aides who alluded to the emails existence. The Senate Judiciary Committee is investigating Comey in his role as FBI director and President Trumps decision to fire him in May. The senators penned a letter on Aug. 30 to newly-appointed FBI Director Christopher Wray noting their findings, saying that it appears that in April or early May of 2016, Mr. Comey had already decided he would issue a statement exonerating Secretary Clinton. That was long before FBI agents finished their work, the letter said. The outcome of an investigation should not be prejudged while FBI agents are still hard at work trying to gather the facts. Clinton, the Democratic presidential candidate in 2016, was investigated by the FBI for using a private email address and server to handle classified information while serving as secretary of state. In July 2016, Comey famously called Clintons email arrangement extremely careless though he decided against recommending criminal charges. The existence of such an email draft raised questions about Comeys Senate testimony in June 2017 regarding his decision to go public with findings in the Clinton email investigation. At the time, Comey testified that he was inclined to publicly announce the results of the probe to protect the credibility of the investigation, after then-Attorney General Loretta Lynch and former President Bill Clinton had an unscheduled meeting on a tarmac in Arizona. CONGRESSIONAL INVESTIGATORS MEET A LOT OF RESISTANCE FROM FBI, DOJ ON ANTI-TRUMP DOSSIER He also said other things encouraged him to make the announcement, including Lynch allegedly urging him to refer to the email scandal as a matter and not an investigation. That was one of the bricks in the load that led me to conclude I have to step away from the department in order to close the case credibly, he said. Calls for Comey to return to Capitol Hill for questioning have mounted, including from Graham who said he would subpoena Comey if he had to. Hes coming one way or the other, Graham told Fox News Americas Newsroom on Sept. 14. Former Vice President Joe Biden said Tuesday that President Trump was undermining "the liberal world order" with his "bizarre conduct." In a joint appearance with Ohio Gov. John Kasich at the University of Delaware, Biden claimed that 14 heads of state had contacted him in an attempt to understand Trump's style of governance. He also alleged that one European prime minister had likened the American president to Italian Fascist leader Benito Mussolini, an anecdote that drew laughter from the audience. "Not a joke," Biden chastised. "Not a joke. That's what people are thinking." "Violating the norms of personal conduct generates more anxiety and fear than any policy prescription that this president has enunciated," Biden added. "Sending his secretary of state to talk with North Korea and saying hes on a 'fools errand' it is absolutely bizarre. This is bizarre conduct." Of course, Biden has his own history of eyebrow-raising behavior while vice president. Most infamously, Biden placed his hands on the shoulders of Ash Carter's wife during Carter's February 2015 swearing-in as defense secretary. After beckoning Stephanie Carter to him from across the room, Biden put both hands on her shoulders for approximately 20 seconds before he leaned in and whispered in her ear while Carter was speaking. Biden was also known to get handsy with family members of senators during the mock swearing-in ceremonies that he presided over while Vice President. A month before the Stephanie Carter incident, Biden tried to kiss the daughter of Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., on the cheek. The awkward moments were immortalized in YouTube montages with titles like, "Compilation of Joe Biden being creepy." Nine days after then-FBI director James Comey took the unusual step of circulating a draft to his inner circle laying the groundwork to recommend against charges in the ongoing Hillary Clinton email case, Comey insisted to Fox News that there are no special set of rules for anyone under the bureaus scrutiny. During a May 11, 2016 briefing for reporters at FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C., Comey was pressed by Fox News on whether the law for mishandling classified information would be applied equally to then-candidate Clinton and her team. A full transcript and audio were posted online by the FBI cameras were prohibited at the event. Catherine Herridge: I consistently hear from security clearance holders that if they had done a fraction of what had been done by Mrs. Clintons team that they would already be in jail. Can you assure people that Mrs. Clinton and her team are being held to the same standard? That there isnt a special set of rules because they are powerful and politically connected? James Comey: Im not going to comment, other than to say there are no special set of rules for anybody that the FBI investigates. The comment appears to pose another conflict for Comey, as lawmakers press the former FBI boss to address public discrepancies in his past statements about his handling of the Clinton case. Newly released FBI records titled Drafts of Director Comeys July 5, 2016 Statement Regarding Email Server Investigation Part 01 of 01 confirmed that Comey drafted a statement on the Clinton case two months before interviewing her and eventually recommending no criminal charges. The contents of the emails are unclear because most of the material was redacted. However, the now-public records show an email titled, Midyear Exam UNCLASSIFIED was sent by Comey on May 2, 2016 to Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, General Counsel James Baker and James Rybicki, then chief of staff and senior counselor. On May 16, the documents showed a response email from Rybicki, saying, Please send me any comments on this statement so we may roll into a master doc for discussion with the Director at a future date. Thanks, Jim. The Comey statements existence first came to light after Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., reviewed transcripts of interviews with top Comey aides who alluded to the emails existence. According to the senators, the transcripts show Comey began drafting an exoneration statement for Clinton two months before as many as 17 key witnesses were interviewed and the FBI case was closed. Graham told Fox News in September he wants to bring back Comey to testify on Capitol Hill, citing concerns about his statements on the conclusion of the Clinton email case. This doesnt add up, and I smell a rat here, Graham told Fox News. Graham and others have raised questions about the former FBI directors testimony in June before the Senate Intelligence Committee. At the time, Comey was asked whether his decision to announce the results of the investigation in July 2016 was influenced by then-Attorney General Loretta Lynchs infamous meeting days earlier on an Arizona tarmac with former President Bill Clinton. Yes, in an ultimately conclusive way, that was the thing that capped it for me that I had to do something separately to protect the credibility of the investigation, Comey said. Graham said in September he doesnt think Comey perjured himself, but suggested the interview transcripts raise questions that must be resolved. He needs to come back to committee, Graham said. Graham also has questions about an email reportedly in the possession of the Russians alleging Lynch would not let the Clinton email investigation go very far. Media outlets have reported the email was fake, and lawmakers want to know whether Comey acted based on bad intelligence. Fox News contacted Comeys book agent asking Comey to explain the May 2 email on the Clinton case, in light of his May 11 assurances to reporters that Clinton would not get special treatment. There was no immediate response. President Trumps pick for drug czar, Rep. Tom Marino, has withdrawn from consideration following allegations he helped water down legislation and weaken the Drug Enforcement Administrations ability to go after big drug distributors. Trump tweeted Tuesday, Rep. Tom Marino has informed me that he is withdrawing his name from consideration as drug czar. Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman! Democrats and at least one Republican had pressed the president on Monday to pull Marinos nomination following a weekend Washington Post/60 Minutes report on the drug legislation. Amid the firestorm, Trump had seemed to leave Marino dangling during his Monday press conference alongside Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., at the White House. He was a very early supporter of mine. He's a great guy, Trump said of Marino, before adding, We're going to look into the report. We're going to take it very seriously. We're going to be looking into Tom. At the same time, Trump said he would declare a national emergency next week on the opioid epidemic that has spread across the United States. Soon after Trumps Tuesday tweet, Vice President Mike Pence told WMAL radio that the administration thinks very highly of Congressman Marino and respect (sic) his decision to withdraw. In a Tuesday morning interview on Fox News Radio with host Brian Kilmeade, the president called Marino a fine man, and explained his decision to withdraw from consideration for czar. He was very gracious, Trump said. He didnt want to even have the perception of a conflict of interest with drug companies or insurance companies. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said nominating the Pennsylvania Republican for drug czar is like putting the wolf in charge of the henhouse. Schumer said Americans deserved an advocate who is totally committed to fighting the opioid crisis, not someone whos labored on behalf of the drug industry. The Post reported Sunday that Marino and other members of Congress, along with the nation's major drug distributors, prevailed upon the DEA and the Justice Department to agree to an industry-friendly law that undermined efforts to restrict the flow of pain pills that have led to tens of thousands of deaths. President Barack Obama signed the law in April 2016. The industry worked behind the scenes with lobbyists and key members of Congress, including Marino, pouring more than a million dollars into their election campaigns, the newspaper reported. Im proud of my work on the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act of 2016, which passed with unanimous consent in the House and Senate, unopposed by the DEA and was signed into law by President Obama. This landmark legislation will help to facilitate a balanced solution for ensuring those who genuinely needed access to certain medications were able to do so, while also empowering the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to enforce the law and prevent the sale and abuse of prescription drugs, Marino responded late Tuesday. Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, the bill's lead Senate sponsor, defended the measure Monday, calling allegations that he or Marino "conspired" with drug companies "utterly ridiculous." Hatch, a 40-year veteran of the Senate, said he was "no patsy" of the drug industry. The language affecting DEA enforcement authority was suggested by DEA and the Justice Department, Hatch said, adding that the agencies could have tried to stop the bill at any time -- or recommended that Obama veto the measure. "Let's not pretend that DEA, both houses of Congress and the Obama White House all somehow wilted under Representative Marino's nefarious influences," Hatch said. West Virginia Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin, whose state has been among the hardest hit by the opioid crisis that has killed tens of thousands of Americans and has seen millions more addicted to deadly painkillers, demanded Trump withdraw Marinos nomination. Manchin, who has his own ties to big pharma, said the legislation Marino helped pass through Congress had effectively defanged the DEAs ability to do its job. Before the announcement that Marino was stepping aside, Manchin had gone on CNNs New Day and said Marino would become the Trump administrations drug czar over my dead body and said adjustments will be made. Following the announcement, Manchin called Marinos move to withdraw the right decision, but added that the fact that he was nominated in the first place is further evidence that when it comes to the opioid crisis, the Trump administration talks the talk, but refuses to walk the walk. The opioid crisis demands that the next drug czar is solely focused on getting communities across the country the help they desperately need. I hope the Trump administration nominates someone that fits the bill. Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., said she will introduce legislation to repeal the 2016 law. She also called Tuesday's announcement "the right decision" and said she looks "forward to the administration nominating a leader that can aggressively bring to bear every tool the government has to confront what is unquestionably a national public health crisis." His nomination had been pending before the Senate Judiciary Committee, but no actual date had been set for his confirmation hearing. Trump nominated Marino last month. Fox News' Elizabeth Llorente and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Employees who work at federal government agencies are continuing their trend of overwhelmingly donating to Democrats for the 2018 election cycle, records show. Government workers shunned Donald Trump while giving generously to Hillary Clinton's campaign during the 2016 presidential cycle, The Hill reported last October. The publication noted that while Republicans tend to do worse with government workers, Trump received just 5 percent of all federal government donations compared to Mitt Romney's 14 percent in 2012. Government workers at 14 agencies gave a total of $2 million during the last presidential cycle with $1.9 millionor 95 percentgoing to Clinton. Despite President Trump now occupying the White House, government workers are still overwhelmingly supporting Democrats, according to a review of employee donations at a handful of agencies. Department of Justice employees have given nearly $30,000 in contributions for the 2018 cycle to date, data that covers contributions of $200 or more from the Center for Responsive Politics shows. Of the $30,000 in contributions, $23,233 (79 percent) was given to Democrats while $4,350 (15 percent) went to Republican campaigns. The 79 percent of DOJ employees who have given money to Democratic campaigns this cycle has dropped slightly from the 87 percent who gave to Democrats in 2016, the data shows. Click for more from The Washington Free Beacon. Republican Roy Moore, the anti-Republican establishment candidate, is tied at 42 percent apiece with Democrat Doug Jones in the U.S. Senate race in deep-red Alabama. A Fox News Poll also finds that among just the 53 percent of Alabama registered voters who are extremely or very interested in the race, Jones has a one-point edge over Moore (46-45 percent). The special election to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions is December 12. READ THE FULL POLL RESULTS. The competitiveness of the race is striking. Donald Trump won Alabama by 28 points in 2016, yet the Steve Bannon-backed Moore defeated the presidents favored candidate, incumbent Luther Strange, in the GOP primary. This race exemplifies the difficulty the Republican Party has now, says Republican pollster Daron Shaw, who conducts the Fox News Poll with Democrat Chris Anderson. There is an element of the party that has had it with the establishment, had it with politics as usual, had it with political correctness. The fissure within the party means divisive primaries, controversial candidates, and hard choices for GOP voters once the general election rolls around. Jones is helped by greater party loyalty, and hesitancy among Moores own backers. The poll, released Tuesday, shows 42 percent of Moores supporters have some reservations about their candidate. For Jones, that number is 28 percent. Plus, 21 percent of those in the Jones camp say theyre voting against Moore as opposed to for Jones. Thats three times the number of Moore supporters who say their vote is based on dislike of Jones (7 percent). Nearly half of those backing Jones (47 percent) and Moore (48 percent) say they strongly support their candidate. The main reasons Moore supporters give for backing him include party loyalty (41 percent) and his Christian beliefs (20 percent). Among Jones supporters, it is party loyalty (35 percent) and their belief Moore is extreme (32 percent). In a Republican stronghold like Alabama, it helps Jones that Democrats are more likely to back him (85 percent) than Republicans are to support Moore (77 percent). Independents go for Jones by 33-26 percent (27 percent undecided). Moore tops Jones among white evangelical Christians (+51), white men without a college degree (+48), and gun owners (+16). Jones is preferred among blacks (+66), voters under age 45 (+14), and women (+3). About 1 in 10 Trump voters defects to the Democratic candidate (11 percent). Thats nearly three times the number of Clinton voters who are supporting Moore (4 percent). Two months out, roughly 1 in 10 Alabamans is undecided about their vote in the Senate race (11 percent). Thirty-three percent are unfamiliar with the Democratic candidate, while 12 percent say the same about Moore. Still, more view Jones positively than negatively by 25 points (46-21 percent). Moore has a net positive of 10 points (49 percent favorable vs. 39 percent unfavorable). About as many Alabama voters view Trump positively as negatively (48-47 percent). Four in 10 have a strongly unfavorable opinion of the president. Are Moores attempts to define Jones as a liberal working? The poll finds 29 percent say Jones is too liberal for Alabama. On the other hand, 39 percent of voters feel Moore is out of step with Alabama today. Even 24 percent of Republicans feel that way. Moore is known for making controversial comments and has had to step down as chief justice of the states supreme court -- twice. So maybe it is unsurprising that, by a 51-38 percent margin, Moores supporters would rather he shake up Washington and the GOP than be a reliable vote for the Republican majority. Only 3 in 10 Alabama voters are pleased with the way the federal government is working these days. Most voters are either angry (22 percent) or dissatisfied (45 percent). With the GOP controlling the White House and Congress, the Democrat Jones leads by 18 points (52-34 percent) among voters expressing frustration with Uncle Sam. Those satisfied with the government break for Moore by 41 points (62-21 percent). By 26-21 percent, more Alabama voters have a positive rather than a negative reaction to the Confederate flag. A majority, 51 percent, dont have a reaction one way or the other. The Fox News Poll is conducted under the joint direction of Anderson Robbins Research (D) and Shaw & Company Research (R). The poll was conducted October 14-16, 2017, by telephone (landline and cellphone) with live interviewers among a sample of 801 voters selected from a statewide voter file in Alabama. It has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points for the total sample. A federal judge in Hawaii has blocked President Trumps revised travel ban just hours before it was expected to go into effect across the United States. Tuesdays decision from U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson in Honolulu stops the administrations third attempt to indefinitely ban entry into the country by most nationals of Libya, Syria, Iran, Yemen, Somalia, Chad and North Korea. The ban would also prevent some Venezuelan government officials and their families. "Todays dangerously flawed district court order undercuts the Presidents efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States," the White House said in a statement. "The Department of Justice will vigorously defend the Presidents lawful action." Watson, who was appointed by former President Barack Obama, found Trump's executive order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor." The judge said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling that found Trump's previous ban exceeds the scope of his authority. The latest version "plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation," Watson wrote. The government has said the new policy was based on an objective assessment of each country's security situation and willingness to share information with the U.S. Hawaii argued in court documents that the updated ban is a continuation of Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States" despite the addition of two non-majority Muslim countries. Other courts are weighing challenges to the latest travel restrictions. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions in the president's latest proclamation. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland have challenged the policy before U.S. District Judge James Robart in Seattle, who struck down Trump's initial ban in January. That policy led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Trump revised the ban, state Attorney General Doug Chin changed the lawsuit to challenge that version. In March, Watson agreed with Hawaii that it amounted to discrimination based on nationality and religion. A subsequent U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate that 90-day ban on visitors from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and a 120-day ban on all refugees. But it said the policy didn't apply to refugees and travelers with a "bona fide relationship" with a person or entity in the U.S. Hawaii then successfully challenged the federal government's definition of which family members would be allowed into the country. Watson ordered the government not to enforce the ban on close relatives such as grandparents, grandchildren, uncles and aunts. The judge's order Tuesday prevents acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson from implementing the latest travel ban. Watson said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order should be extended. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Several LGBT advocacy groups are demanding that senators reject President Trumps judicial nominee for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas because he has brazen contempt for LGBT people, according to a three-page letter released Monday. Jeff Mateer, who was nominated by Trump in early September, has seen his previous comments and speeches come under increasing scrutiny since they were unearthed last month. Mr. Mateer has spent his professional life denigrating and vilifying LGBT people and their families, the letter states. During a 2015 speech titled The Church and Homosexuality, Mateer said that transgender children were evidence of how Satans plan is working and the destruction thats going on. During that same speech, Mateer said same-sex marriage would open the door to people marrying their pets. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in June 2015 that the Constitution guarantees same-sex couples the right to marry. The letter, which was signed by 36 national and local LGBT organizations, says Mateers comments reveal a level of cruelty and ideological fervor that are incompatible with judicial service. TRUMP JUDICIAL PICK'S REMARKS ON TRANSGENDER CHILDREN DRAW DEMS' IRE Fox News reached out to Mateers press office for comment but did not immediately hear back. In two speeches before the National Religious Liberty Conference, Mateer said that there is no right to homosexuality, and that no honest attorney could defend the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling that legalized same-sex marriage. According to the letter, at that same conference Mateer also reportedly lamented that states were banning conversion therapy, a controversial practice that tries to change a persons sexual orientation or gender identity. The practice has been banned in eight states and has been criticized as unscientific and cruel by the American Medical Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association and other groups. Texas Sen. John Cornyn told the San Antonio Express-News in September that Mateer's comments were not disclosed to him during the screening process, and they should have been. We requested that sort of information about speeches and the like on his application, Cornyn said. And to my knowledge there was no information given about those, so its fair to say I was surprised. Cornyn did not return immediately emails from Fox News seeking comment. He told the Express-News he was re-evaluating Mateers nomination. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., delivered speech Monday night that criticized politicians supporting the new movement of "half-baked" isolationist politics. McCain, who did not name any one by name, called the movement "unpatriotic" while at the National Constitution Center Liberty Medal ceremony. To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history, he said. Accepting the award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the country, McCain also used the opportunity to reminisce about a time where bipartisanship was a normal part of politics. We often argued sometimes passionately, McCain said of himself and the former Vice President Joe Biden who was also in attendance. But we believed in each others patriotism and the sincerity of each others convictions. We believed in the institution we were privileged to serve in. McCain joined the Navy in 1958 and rose to the rank of captain during his 22 years of service. In 1967, his plane was shot down over Hanoi, Vietnam, during a bombing mission, and he spent years in a Vietnamese prisoner of war camp. He recently revealed that hes fighting brain cancer. The Associated Press contributed to this report. WASHINGTON -- Sen. Thad Cochran has returned to Washington after weeks in Mississippi, where he was being treated for urological problems. In a statement Tuesday, Cochran says he is pleased to be back in Washington, where he will continue to work on spending bills and vote on the budget later this week. The 79-year-old senator says he appreciates "all the support and kind words I received while at home." The statement says the senator will continue to be treated for urological issues and remains under medical supervision, and that could affect his work schedule. On Monday, Cochran's office said he was remaining in Mississippi on the advice of his doctors. Cochran has been away from Washington since the week of Sept. 18. New Jersey Democrats are working hard to reclaim the governorship in next month's election by tying GOP nominee Kim Guadagno to Chris Christie at every turn. But Republicans warn the constant bashing of the outgoing and unpopular GOP incumbent could turn off voters looking for a genuine platform. Guadagno had a standout moment during last week's debate when she called out Democratic rival Phil Murphy over his strategy. The inconvenient truth for Phil is that Chris Christie is not on the ballot in November. I am, Guadagno said in their first debate, where they also sparred over property taxes and immigration. As lieutenant governor and Christie's former running mate, Guadagno has unavoidable links to the sitting governor. Likely aided by Christie's various controversies in office, Murphy is leading the polls by double digits -- and pushing a campaign message that focuses on the Christie connection. He answered his first debate question by saying the Christie-Guadagno administration has favored the wealthy and corporate America at the expense of the states infrastructure and public school system. This is a great state that has been ravaged over the past eight years, said Murphy, who's also trying to tie his opponent to President Trump. And the middle class has been left holding the bag. But Democrats have stumbled repeatedly in House special elections this year as they tried to make race after race a referendum on Trump. Murphy, a former Goldman Sachs executive and U.S. ambassador to Germany, is facing criticism for his similar strategy with regard to Christie. Alan Steinberg, a former Bush administration official, called Murphys debate performance the worst of any New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate over the past 40 years. Hes overdoing it, Steinberg, who insists hes neither a Christie nor Trump supporter, also told NorthJersey.com He also argues that Murphy, if elected, would make New Jersey a so-called sanctuary state, with policies protecting some illegal immigrants. That issue could indeed help Guadagno ahead of Nov. 7 balloting, considering New Jersey has more unaffiliated or independent voters -- who helped Trump win the White House -- than registered Democrats or Republicans. Since the debate, Guadagno supporters have run an ad featuring Jose Carranza, an illegal immigrant sentenced to 155 years in prison in connection with the fatal shooting of three students in 2007. Make no mistake, Murphy will have the backs of deranged murders like Carranza, the narrator says in the 30-second video. Asked for comment, Murphy spokesman Daniel Bryan said voters want new leadership and want to turn the page from the Christie-Guadagno record, again highlighting the Christie ties. Kim Guadagno has stood right by Chris Christies side every day and has made it clear that electing her would just be another four years of his failed agenda, he said in a statement. A Monmouth University poll released Oct. 3 showed Murphy with a 14-point lead, with 9 percent of voters still undecided. However, earlier polls suggest Guadagno may be closing the gap, considering polls this summer showed him leading by as much as 27 percentage points. Jon Thompson, a Republican Governors Association spokesman, said Tuesday that his group is running ads that argue Murphy would increase taxes -- and that voters are paying attention. Voters are saying, This guys bad news. Hell raise our taxes, Thompson said. Although specifics werent provided, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un joined his counterpart to the south in promising to rid the Korean Peninsula of nuclear weapons. The vow to create a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula through complete denuclearization came during the Koreas historic summit between Kim and South Korean President Moon Jae-in in late April, and just before a much-anticipated meeting between Kim and U.S. President Trump. I feel like Im firing a flare at the starting line in the moment of (the two Koreas) writing a new history in North-South relations, peace and prosperity, Kim told Moon. Kim is the first known member of his familys dynasty to set foot on South Korean soil since 1953. There, at least in front of cameras, his rhetoric drastically changed since he engaged in a war of words with Trump throughout the first year of the U.S. presidents time in the White House. (Kim called Trump a dotard; Trump called the North Korean leader short and fat.) Since Kim took over North Korea in 2011, the regime rapidly expanded and tested its missile arsenal with weapons capable of striking the U.S. mainland. His end goal, he once said, was to "establish the equilibrium of real force with the U.S. and make the U.S. rulers dare not talk about military options for the North. Read on for a brief look at how North Koreas nuclear weapons program has grown throughout the regimes in the past century. Kim Il Sung, leader from 1948-1994 Kim Il Sung can be credited with founding North Korea and propelling the nations nuclear program forward but he did not live to see his country conduct its first nuclear test. It was under the first Kim that North Korea began to build up its nuclear reactors. And it was under his leadership that the nation began the Korean War surely a catalyst that led the leader to believe his nation needed nuclear weapons, Dr. Sung-Yoon Lee, the Kim Koo-Korea Foundation Professor of Korean Studies at the Fletcher School at Tufts University, told Fox News in an interview. TRUMPS COMMENTS ON NORTH KOREA, FROM FIRE AND FURY TO BLAMING CHINA The seeds of nuclear aspirations were sown in the Korean War, Lee said. The Korean War pitted North Korea and its ally China two nations that did not have nuclear capabilities at the time against a nuclear-armed U.S., making it clear to the first Kim that nuclear weapons are very powerful, a powerful deterrent, Lee said. Kim Jong Il, leader from 1994-2011 When the second leader of the Kim dynasty died in 2011, Kim Jong Il was remembered as the dictator who turned North Korea into a nuclear state, in his New York Times obituary. And its Kim Jong Il that really gets the credit of taking the country down the nuclear path," Lee said. In the beginning of his reign he was North Koreas supreme leader from 1994 to 2011 North Korea denied that it had a nuclear weapons program. TIMELINE OF NORTH KOREAN MISSILE LAUNCHES IN 2017 However, in 2003, Pyongyang announced that North Korea was withdrawing from the 1968 Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, which barred the nation from making nuclear weapons. By 2005, North Korea confirmed that it had its own nuclear weapons. It tested its first nuclear device in 2006. Kim Jong Un, leader from 2011-present Kim Jong Un is credited with accelerating North Koreas push for nuclear weapons, and under the Obama administration, many of the worlds attitudes toward the East Asian nations nuclear capabilities became less blase than in the past, Lee said. Kim Jong Un also crossed a major threshold for his country in the summer of 2017 the ability to credibly threaten the U.S. with an intercontinental ballistic missile. In 2017, North Korea successfully tested its longest-ever flight of a ballistic missile. The intermediate-range weapon traveled 3,700 miles and passed over Japan before it landed in the Pacific. The country also tested its most powerful nuclear test to date this year. After the missile test, Kim Jong Un said North Korea is nearing equilibrium with the U.S. in terms of its military force. The increasingly frequent and aggressive tests added to outside fears that North Korea is closer than ever to building a military arsenal that could viably target the mainland of the U.S. or its allies in Asia. Calling Kim Jong Un Rocket Man, Trump said in 2017 the dictator is on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime. The United States has great strength and patience, Trump said. But if it is forced to defend itself or its allies, we will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea. But 2018 brought a dramatic turn of events after he declared in a stark New Years address that a nuclear launch button is always on my table. Kim Jong Un offered to meet with Trump and became the first known member of his familys dynasty to set foot in South Korea since 1953. At the historic summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, both leaders pushed for peace and would work toward a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula. However, neither leader provided any specific measures or seemed to forge a potential breakthrough on the issue that has captivated and terrified many, especially since last year. Before Trump canceled a much-anticipated meeting with Kim Jong Un, North Korea said it demolished what it claimed to be its nuclear test site, setting off several explosions over the course of a few hours in the presence of foreign journalists. The planned closing of the Punggye-ri site was previously announced, but it's unclear if another facility could be used to continue the country's nuclear weapons program. Yongbyon nuclear complex, located about 64 miles north of Pyongyang, has a new reactor that could produce weapons-grade plutonium. Pyongyang insists is being used to produce electricity for its citizens. Trump ultimately rejected Kim Jong Un's invitation to a June meeting in Singapore, citing North Korea's "open hostility." Fox News Edmund DeMarche, Ryan Gaydos and The Associated Press contributed to this report. The FBI had evidence as early as 2009 that Russian operatives used bribes, kickbacks and other dirty tactics to expand Moscows atomic energy footprint in the U.S. but the Obama administration approved a controversial uranium deal benefiting Moscow anyway, according to an explosive new report. Revisiting allegations from the 2016 campaign, the report in The Hill noted that Bill Clinton and his family foundation got millions from figures tied to the uranium company while Hillary Clinton led the State Department and served on a panel that helped seal the deal. But the report also says evidence indicates Russian nuclear officials routed millions of dollars to the U.S. to benefit Bill Clintons foundation, while citing new allegations about a Russian plot that preceded that deal. According to The Hill, federal agents gathered evidence including recordings and emails as early as 2009 showing Moscow used bribes and kickbacks to compromise an American uranium trucking firm. But rather than bring swift charges, the Obama Justice Department reportedly investigated for years, without informing the public and Congress of the full scope of the alleged scheme as the administration made two decisions benefiting Moscow. The first was the 2010 approval of a partial sale of Canadian mining company Uranium One to Russias Rosatom nuclear company. The U.S. was involved because the sale gave the Russians control of part of the uranium supply in the U.S. A year later, the Obama administration gave the OK on a separate deal involving a Rosatom subsidiary. The Russians were compromising American contractors in the nuclear industry with kickbacks and extortion threats, all of which raised legitimate national security concerns. And none of that evidence got aired before the Obama administration made those decisions, the Hill quoted a person who worked on the case as saying. The details of the Uranium One deal first emerged in news reports in 2015. Since then, President Trumps allies have cited the deal and accusations that the Clintons benefited from figures tied to it -- to counter allegations of Russia collusion during the 2016 campaign. At the time, Clintons campaign downplayed the allegations "No one has produced a shred of evidence that Hillary Clinton ever took action as Secretary of State in order to support the interests of donors to the Clinton Foundation," a spokesman said at the time. "To suggest the State Department, under then-Secretary Clinton, exerted undue influence in the U.S. government's review of the sale of Uranium One is utterly baseless. It mischaracterizes the nature of the State Department's participation in such reviews, and also ignores the range of other regulatory agencies that ultimately supported this sale." He dismissed the allegations as conspiracy theories. As noted in The Hill, the feds did go after Vadim Mikerin, a Russian nuclear industry official, in connection with the investigation. He was later sentenced, in 2015, to 48 months in prison and ordered to hand over more than $2.1 million, in connection with money laundering allegations. CLINTON FOUNDATION TO KEEP WEINSTEIN'S DONATION The case, incidentally, was overseen by Rod Rosenstein, who is now overseeing the special counsel probe into Russias role in the 2016 presidential campaign. Sean Spicer, President Trumps former White House press secretary, was interviewed this week by Special Counsel Robert Muellers team as part of the probe into Russias alleged attempt to meddle in the 2016 election, Fox News has confirmed. The interview took place Monday, according to sources familiar with the situation. Spicer was a top aide at the Republican National Committee during the campaign and became press secretary after Trump became president. He resigned in July. It comes just days after Reince Priebus, President Trump's former White House chief of staff, was interviewed by the same team. PRIEBUS INTERVEWED BY MUELLER TEAM Mr. Priebus was voluntarily interviewed by Special Counsel Muellers team today, attorney William Burck told Fox News last week. He was happy to answer all of their questions. Priebus served as chairman of the Republican National Committee during the presidential election. He joined the White House as the presidents first chief of staff. He was replaced in July by John Kelly, the retired Marine general who had been serving as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. MUELLERS RUSSIA INVESTIGATION: WHAT TO KNOW Mueller, who is investigating the firing of former FBI director James Comey and other actions of the Trump administration, has signaled that his team intends to interview multiple current and former White House officials in the coming weeks and has requested large batches of documents from the executive branch. Fox News John Roberts and The Associated Press contributed to this report. President Trump headed to South Carolina Monday where he lent his support for Gov. Henry McMasters re-election campaign. McMaster was elevated to his position after former Gov. Nikki Haley was tapped to be the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Hes a terrific person, terrific man. He works so hard, Trump said at a closed-door fundraiser for him. Heres a look at the candidates for the 2018 gubernatorial race. WHO ARE THE REPUBLICANS? Gov. Henry McMaster McMaster, 70, was reportedly the first South Carolina official who endorsed Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign. He was the states lieutenant governor for two years before he assumed the governorship in January. McMaster also served as the states attorney general the first attorney general to be appointed by former President Ronald Regan, according to his biography. In that position, he investigated international drug smuggling and domestic violence. He is married with two children. Catherine Templeton Catherine Templeton, 46, is a former state health department director and shes never run for office before, she boasts on her campaign website. Templeton is anti-union and reportedly was considered for Labor Secretary. She ignited controversy in August when she said she was proud of the Confederacy. As governor, Templeton said she would tackle the Palmetto States large problem with domestic violence by putting families first through the church, our schools and our communities. She also is anti-abortion, a fiscal conservative and will make the states infrastructure which includes fixing the states roads her first priority, according to her campaign website. Former Lt. Gov. Yancey McGill The state's former lieutenant governor, Yancey McGill, 65, also is a former Democrat. He told The State newspaper that he switched parties before he announced his bid for governor because he had backed a lot of conservative issues over the years, including anti-abortion policies. He is a former state senator and worked as the state director of the South Carolina Office on Aging for eight months. As governor, McGill would focus on ethics reform, fixing South Carolinas roads and the quality of life for senior citizens, according to his campaign website. McGill is from Kingstree, S.C., where he was once mayor. Lt. Gov. Kevin Bryant Lt. Gov. Kevin Bryant, 50, managed a family pharmacy with his father and brothers in Anderson, S.C. As a state senator, Bryant founded the libertarian William Wallace Caucus, The State reported. In the senate, he repeatedly pushed for anti-abortion, school choice and traditional marriage legislation. Should he be elected governor, Bryant has promised to work for health care reform, tax reform and care for senior citizens, according to his campaign website. WHO ARE THE DEMOCRATS? Phil Noble A business and technology consultant from Charleston, S.C., Phil Noble, 66, announced his candidacy last week. He is a longtime Democratic activist and was the president of the nonprofit South Carolina New Democrats, according to Cola Daily. He also founded three nonprofits in the state, according to his campaign website: The Palmetto Project, One Laptop Per Child South Carolina and World Class Scholars. He has also served on multiple collegiate advisory boards, including Clemson, University of South Carolina and College of Charleston. James Smith State Rep. James Smith, is a major in the South Carolina Army National Guard and a combat veteran. He also is a small business owner and attorney in Columbia, S.C., his campaign website said. Smith, 50, worked side by side with Afghans to enforce the rule of law and fought the Taliban head on, according to his website. He received the Bronze Star, Combat Infantrymans Badge and Purple Heart. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The self-described strategic intelligence firm Fusion GPS that was behind the controversial anti-Trump dossier has a track record of intimidation and smear tactics, according to congressional testimony and the firsthand account of a London-based Venezuelan journalist who said he was labeled a pedophile, extortionist and drug trafficker after criticizing one of Fusions clients. I believe that Fusion GPSs business is to do basically whatever the paymasters tell them to do, Alek Boyd, the Venezuelan journalist, told Fox News in his first American TV interview. They are particularly good at spreading misinformation, disinformation and smears. Boyd says he was targeted after his 2012 reporting on Derwick Associates, a power company with close ties to the Venezuelan government. The company allegedly skimmed nearly a billion dollars from rigged contracts with the late Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chavez. It is my understanding that [Fusion GPS] were hired basically to smear Derwick opponents and to dispel any possible doubts that regular media may have had at the time, he said. British police records show Boyd reported a break-in, with two laptops stolen from his London apartment in November 2014. Asked by Fox News what was on the computers, Boyd said, A lot of information and a lot of evidence about corruption and scandals in Venezuela that Ive been compiling throughout the years. After the break-in, Boyd said his sources were attacked. People that were believed to be collaborating and sending me information from Venezuela were assaulted in Venezuela by the intelligence police of Mr. Chavez, he said. Asked if Fusion GPS was tasked with coming after him, Boyd said, I believe that they were involved in the defamation campaign smearing campaign shortly after my apartment was broken into. Boyd says he was labeled a pedophile, drug addict and thief on the web. They published this information through a number of social media and websites anonymously. They created fake Twitter accounts with my name, impersonating myself. ... They started publishing photos of me walking around London with my daughters. They produced a huge amount of information fake information about me, accusing me from being a pedophile to being an extortionist to a drug trafficker to a car thief. Boyd says he believes three suspects, seen in security camera video released by British police, left pictures of his children inside his coat pocket as a warning. The message, I believe at the time we know where you are and we know where your children are, so take that as a threatening message. And there was more. After about a week, Boyd explained, two sets of envelopes were sent to me from Tbilisi, Georgia, containing the same exact same pictures printout of pictures that were left in my jacket, but this time the printouts had handwritten messages saying, You touch the wrong girl you pedophile, you think we cant touch yours? Fusion GPS is led by Glenn Simpson and Peter Fritsch, who left the Wall Street Journal about a decade ago. Boyd provided Fox News with a travel document that Boyd said indicates Fritsch traveled to Venezuela, as part of what he described as an effort to shut down any investigative reporting into Derwick's actions. Asked if Fusion GPS plays on its credentials as former journalists, Boyd said yes. FUSION BOSS REFUSED TO ANSWER BASIC QUESTIONS ON ANTI-TRUMP DOSSIER, SOURCE SAYS I believe that they are basically cashing in on the years of experience they have accumulated collectively in different newspapers, in different media around the world, he said. Boyds allegations mirror sworn congressional testimony from Bill Browder, an American businessman who told senators this summer that Fusion GPS used smear tactics to discredit him and his late attorney Sergei Magnitsky who, he says, was tortured and murdered eight years ago in a Russian jail. The so-called Magnitsky Act issued tough economic sanctions against Russia which are still in place today. In the Magnitsky case, Browder filed a complaint with the Justice Department in July 2016 because he says Fusion worked on behalf of a foreign government and its interests. The Justice Department would not comment on the complaint status. In a congressional declaration, human rights activist Thor Halvorssen also said Fusion GPS had smear experts and used scorched earth methods. To date, Simpson has refused to reveal his sources and who paid for the Trump dossier, with Fusion attorney Joshua Levy threatening in an Oct. 16 letter that Simpson and others will take the Fifth if they are required to appear before the House Intelligence Committee. Defending the companys work on the Trump dossier, Levy wrote: Of acute importance, these subpoenas, if indeed directed to our clients, violate the First Amendment rights of our clients and their clients, and would chill any American running for office regardless of party affiliation, political viewpoint or candidate preference from conducting confidential opposition research in an election. No individual should be expected to respond to such an abuse of power. Boyd was dismissive of Fusions First Amendment arguments. I do not believe that certain privileges that apply to journalists and lawyers should apply to Mr. Simpson because he is neither hes a spin doctor. Simpson once railed against the kinds of aggressive opposition research tactics that are allegedly the lifeblood of his current company. Ironically, in a 1996 book that Simpson co-authored with Larry Sabato entitled, Dirty Little Secrets: The Persistence of Corruption in American Politics, the authors wrote, At its worst, opposition research can be a gateway to acts that are not just offensive but duplicitous and sometimes illegal. Levy did not respond to multiple requests for comment from Fox News over a two-day period about its work in Venezuela and Boyds allegations. The Metropolitan Police in London confirmed an investigation into Boyds apartment break-in, but the case was closed when the leads went cold. After Fox News emailed Alejandro Betancourt, CEO at Derwick Associates of Venezuela, Florida-based attorney Joseph DeMaria responded but did not address Fox News questions about the companys relationship with Fusion GPS and the Boyd allegations: I have represented Derwick and Messrs. Betancourt and Trebbau for the past five years in Florida litigation. Mr. Halvorssen filed a defamation and tortious interference lawsuit against Derwick and Messrs. Trebbau and Betancourt, which I defended successfully. The case was dismissed by the trial court and just last week, the Florida Court of Appeal affirmed the dismissal. Thus, after defeating Mr. Halvorssens claims, you can understand why Derwick and its principals have no desire to have any further involvement with Mr. Halvorssen. They did their speaking against Mr. Halvorssen in Court and have no further comment to make regarding Mr. Halvorssen or his allegations. President Trump has spoken to the families of all four U.S. soldiers who were killed in an ambush in the West African country of Niger earlier this month. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said Tuesday that Trump "offered condolences on behalf of a grateful nation and assured them their families' extraordinary sacrifice to the country will never be forgotten." Trump said in a news conference Monday that he had written letters to the families and planned to call them, crediting himself with taking extra steps in honoring the dead properly. "Most of them didn't make calls," he said of his predecessors. He said it's possible that Obama "did sometimes" but "other presidents did not call." The comments provoked visceral reactions by former staffers in the George W. Bush and Barack Obama administrations, many of whom recounted face-to-face meetings between commanders-in-chief and the families of fallen soldiers. The U.S. troops killed in Niger Oct. 4 were patrolling in unarmored trucks with Nigerien troops when their convoy was attacked by militants thought to be affiliated with ISIS. The Associated Press contributed to this report. After declaring the nations opioid epidemic a public health emergency in October, President Trump revealed his plans to crack down on the health crisis. His plan, which he discussed in March, includes harsher penalties for drug traffickers and lowering the amount of drugs needed to trigger mandatory minimum sentences for dealers. These are terrible people and we have to get tough with those people, Trump said of traffickers and dealers. This isnt about committees ... this is about winning a very tough problem. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 115 Americans die daily from opioid-involved deaths. Opioids, including prescriptions and heroin, killed 42,000 people in the U.S. in 2016 the highest on record. Its important that the full weight of the federal government with each Cabinet department determining their role in the crisis is involved in tackling the epidemic, said Tom Coderre, a former official with the Obama administrations Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The opioid crisis is multi-faceted and multi-dimensional. Its not like there is a secret weapon out there, Coderre, recently hired as a senior adviser to Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo to help combat the opioid crisis, told Fox News. Heres a look at what the Trump administration has proposed to deal with the crisis. Death penalty Trump has often mused that certain countries such as Singapore have fewer issues with drugs because of the harsh penalties dealers can face if caught. He has argued that a person in the U.S. can receive the death penalty or life in prison for shooting one person, but a drug dealer who potentially kills thousands spend little to no time in jail. When the president unveiled his plan to combat the epidemic, he brandished the death penalty as a fitting punishment for traffickers. Drug traffickers kill so many thousands of our citizens every year, Trump said. That's why my Department of Justice will be seeking so many tougher penalties than we've ever had and we'll be focusing on the penalties that I talked about previously for big pushers, the ones that are killing so many people, and that penalty is going to be the death penalty. He added, Other countries don't play games ... But the ultimate penalty has to be the death penalty. "The ultimate penalty has to be the death penalty." President Trump The Justice Department said the federal death penalty is already available for several limited drug-related offenses, including violations of the drug kingpin provisions of federal law. Attorney Gen. Jeff Sessions issued guidance to all U.S. attorneys, urging them to "hold opioid manufacturers and distributors accountable for unlawful practices." "[T]his should also include the pursuit of capital punishment in appropriate cases," he said. "Congress has passed several statutes that provide the Department with the ability to seek capital punishment for certain drug-related crimes." Sessions added, "I strongly encourage federal prosecutors to use these statutes, when appropriate, to aid in our continuing fight against drug trafficking and the destruction it causes in our nation." Mandatory minimum sentencing Trump has called on Congress to pass legislation which would lower the amount of drugs needed to trigger a mandatory minimum sentence for dealers who knowing distribute illicit opioids. Congress already has plans to weigh a range of bills targeted at curbing the epidemic. Republican Sens. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina have put forth a bill that includes lowering the amount of fentanyl needed to invoke mandatory minimum sentences in certain distribution cases. Fentanyl is a high-risk type of opioid used by doctors to treat pain. Its past time the punishment matched the crime when it comes to opioid distribution and trafficking, Cotton said in a statement. Graham added, Increasing these mandatory minimums is well-justified. More research, less prescriptions Part of Trumps plan to attack the nationwide crisis is to increase research and development through public-private partnerships between the federal National Institutes of Health and pharmaceutical companies. With the public health emergency declaration, officials are able to more easily deploy state and federal workers, secure grants for the unemployed and shift funding from certain programs such as HIV or AIDs programs to provide substance abuse treatment for certain individuals. Trump wants to see the number of opioid prescriptions cut by one-third within three years. He also called for expanding access to proven treatment and recovery efforts. Awareness campaign Trumps plan includes broadening education and awareness as well something he called for last fall when he declared the opioid epidemic a public health emergency. This awareness campaign includes broadcasting great commercials to scare kids from dabbling in drugs. Trump also announced the creation of a new website, CrisisNextDoor.gov, where people can share their stories about addiction. Gary Mendell, founder and CEO of the nonprofit Shatterproof, said the crisis needs more attention and awareness, which the president can provide. An emergency declaration, he told Fox News, creates recognition ... and awareness around the country that this epidemic needs right now. Past declarations In October, Trump declared the crisis a national public health emergency, short of the national state of emergency sought by a presidential commission he put together to study the issue. It was renewed in January. HHS has issued public health emergency declarations in the wake of natural disasters as well as the spread of diseases. The agency issued its first declaration for the Zika virus in Puerto Rico in August 2016. It was last renewed in April 2017. Public health emergencies were also declared in New York following Hurricane Sandy in November 2012 and in Missouri following a series of storms and tornadoes in May 2011. Fox News' Elizabeth Llorente and The Associated Press contributed to this report. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the latest version of President Trump's controversial travel ban that affects residents of some majority-Muslim countries. The ban applies to people from Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. It also placed limits on people from North Korea and Venezuela. Since the president signed an executive order in January 2017 establishing a ban on travel of people from Muslim-majority nations, it has been a point of contention and challenged in court. Heres a look at the bans journey through the legal system. June 26 Supreme Court upholds ban In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court issued its first substantive ruling on a Trump administration policy on June 26, upholding the travel ban. The court said the president has substantial power to regulate immigration. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the majority opinion, which was joined by his four conservative colleagues. The sole prerequisite set forth in [federal law] is that the President find that the entry of the covered aliens would be detrimental to the interests of the United States. The President has undoubtedly fulfilled that requirement here, Roberts wrote. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who dissented, said "a reasonable observer would conclude that the Proclamation was motivated by anti-Muslim animus." April 25 Supreme Court hears oral arguments In the last case the justices will hear until October, oral arguments on the travel ban will be delivered before the Supreme Court on April 25. This is the first time the justices are considering whether it violates immigration law or the Constitution. People waited for a seat inside the courtroom for days ahead of the hearing. A decision is expected by June. April 10 Chad removed from travel ban The Trump administration removed Chad from the travel ban because the African country had improved its identity-management and information sharing practices enough, press secretary Sarah Sanders said. It had been included on the list because of an office supply glitch that prevented it from supplying homeland security officials with recent samples of its passports. It was also unable to adequately share public safety and terror-related information with U.S. officials who screen foreigners seeking to enter the country, officials said. March 30 More than a dozen states back lawsuit against ban Washington, D.C. and 16 states backed Hawaiis lawsuit against the travel ban with an amicus brief filed with the Supreme Court. President Trumps discriminatory ban both hurts the families caught up in the chaos of his draconian policies, and undermines our states residents, institutions, businesses and economies, New York Attorney Gen. Eric Schneiderman said in a statement. Jan. 19 Supreme Court announces it will rule on the travel ban The Supreme Court announced on Jan. 19 that it will rule on Trump's controversial travel ban. The justices plan to hear arguments in April and issue a final ruling by late June. Dec. 4 Supreme Court OKs full enforcement of Trump travel ban Handing the White House a huge judicial victory, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Trumps travel ban affecting residents of six majority-Muslim countries. Lower courts had said people from those countries with a "bona fide" relationship with someone in the United States could not be prevented from entry. Grandparents and cousins were among the relatives courts said could not be excluded. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor said they would have left the lower court orders in place. Oct. 17 Federal judge temporarily blocks travel ban U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson granted a request from Hawaii to temporarily block a version of Trump's travel ban, which was supposed to take effect at midnight ET on Oct. 18. Hawaii argued that the revised ban which included citizens from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, and some Venezuelan government officials and their families was a continuation of Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States." "Todays dangerously flawed district court order undercuts the Presidents efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States," the White House said in a statement. "The Department of Justice will vigorously defend the Presidents lawful action." Oct. 10 Supreme Court dismisses one case The Supreme Court didnt take action on a case that originated in Hawaii pertaining to Trumps travel ban and a ban on refugees. However, it did dismiss another case that originated in Maryland. That case involved a ban that has since expired and been replaced with a new one by the administration. Oct. 5 Justice Department asks Supreme Court to drop travel ban case The Department of Justice asked the nations highest court to dismiss the case challenging the administrations travel ban. The administration argued the case should be dismissed because it was regarding a previous travel ban that is now moot. Sept. 24 Trump signs new travel ban As Trumps original ban was set to expire, the president unveiled new restrictions on travel to the U.S. from certain countries citizens. The revised ban included citizens from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen. It also included some government officials from Venezuela. Sept. 12 Supreme Court lifts restrictions The Supreme Court blocked a lower courts decision that would have allowed refugees to enter the country under certain conditions, blocking a ruling that said a resettlement agency counts as a bona fide relationship. Sept. 7 Appeals court limits travel ban The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld a lower court ruling that would allow for more refugees to enter the country despite the ban. The federal court ruled that refugees working with a resettlement agency would be considered to have established an approved bona fide relationship with a contact in the U.S. WHO DOES TRUMPS TRAVEL BAN BLOCK FROM ENTERING THE US? It also expanded the scope of a bona fide relationship to include other family members, such as grandparents and other relatives. July 19 Supreme Court allows for strict enforcement of refugee ban The Supreme Court, temporarily, allowed for the administrations travel ban to keep a strict enforcement on its ban of refugees. It did, however, leave in place the court order that made it easier for travelers from the six Muslim-majority countries to enter the U.S. and allowed a previous expansion of bona fide relationships to stay. July 13 Federal judge expands scope of travel ban U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson, in Hawaii, ruled that a bona fide relationship certain travelers need before entering the U.S. could be expanded to include grandparents and other relatives. The Justice Department filed an emergency request with the Supreme Court for clarification. June 29 Travel ban goes into effect After the Supreme Courts ruling, the Trump administration issued guidance on who would be allowed into the country and who would be barred. June 26 Supreme Court allows for travel ban to continue The Supreme Court announced it would allow Trump to forge ahead with a limited version of his travel ban. Trump hailed the decision as a victory for national security. HAWAII GETS CHANCE TO MAKE CASE FOR FIGHTING 3RD TRAVEL BAN The court said it would hear arguments in October, but until then, the ban on travelers from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen could be enforced if the visitors lacked a credible claim of a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States. May 25 Travel ban blocked by federal court The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in Virginia blocked the travel ban from being implemented. It had begun to hear the case earlier in May. We remain unconvinced [the ban] has more to do with national security than it does with effectuating the Presidents promised Muslim ban," the court said at the time. March 30 Trump administration appeals ruling The Department of Justice filed an appeal with the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to challenge the ruling against the travel ban. March 29 Federal judge continues to block travel ban U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson granted a request to continue to halt the travel ban. March 16 Another federal judge temporarily blocks the order Sitting in Maryland, U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang temporarily halted the executive order. The injunction was not as comprehensive as the one issued earlier in Hawaii, but it did contend that the ban was discriminatory toward Muslims. The order did not change the previous injunction in Hawaii, but rather just reinforced it. March 15 Federal judge blocks travel ban U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson prevented the travel ban from being implemented just before it was set to take effect. Watson granted the state of Hawaiis request for a temporary restraining order. Trump called the decision an unprecedented judicial overreach. March 8 Hawaii sues to block the travel ban The state of Hawaii sued in an attempt to halt the Trump administrations travel ban from going into effect. Lawyers said the new executive order is resulting in the establishment of religion in the State of Hawaii contrary to its state Constitution. Lawyers also argued that the ban would damage Hawaiis economy, educational institutions and tourism industry; and it is subjecting a portion of the states citizens to second-class treatment and discrimination, while denying all Hawaii residents the benefits of an inclusive and pluralistic society. March 6 Trump unveils new travel ban Trump signed a new executive order which barred travel from six predominantly Muslim countries for 90 days removing Iraq from the new ban. The new order also exempted permanent residents and current visa holders from the travel ban. Syrian refugees were still included in the new order but only for 120 instead of indefinitely. Feb. 15 Trumps travel ban gets a defender Texas Attorney Ken Paxton split with other states and defended the travel ban as he filed documents with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit asking to reconsider a decision blocking the ban. Paxton argued that the order is a legal exercise of presidential authority. Feb. 13 Federal judge grants injunction against ban A federal judge in Virginia granted an injunction to prevent the administration from implementing the ban. U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema said the ban was unconstitutional as it had a religious bias. Feb. 9 Travel ban is again blocked The travel bans suspension was upheld by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in a unanimous decision. MUSLIM ADVOCATES, LEGAL ORG FILES SUITS OVER TRAVEL BAN Those judges were Michelle Friedland, appointed by former President Barack Obama; Richard Clifton, appointed by former President George W. Bush; and William Canby, appointed by former President Jimmy Carter. The court began to hear arguments from the Justice Department and lawyers from the states of Washington and Maryland in opposition to the ban on Feb. 7. Feb. 6 Justice Department asks federal court to intervene The Justice Department filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit asking it to intervene and reverse a previous judges decision to halt the travel ban. Sixteen attorneys general filed an amicus brief in support of the lawsuit against the travel ban. Those included: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington, D.C. Feb. 3 Judge declines to extend injunction against travel ban U.S. District Judge Nathaniel Gorton did not extend a temporary injunction against the administrations travel ban. But U.S. District Judge James Robart in Seattle did issue a temporary block of the ban on the same day. The state has met its burden in demonstrating immediate and irreparable injury, Robart said as he ruled in favor of lawyers from the states of Washington and Minnesota. Feb. 1 Administration tweaks travel ban The Trump administration tweaked its travel ban to exempt legal permanent residents of the U.S. AFGHAN GIRLS ROBOTICS TEAM ARRIVES IN US JUST IN TIME They no longer need a waiver because if they are a legal permanent resident, they wont need it anymore, then-White House press secretary Sean Spicer said of green card holders. Jan. 30 Senate Republicans save travel ban from Democrats Senate Republicans squashed an effort by Democrats to overturn the executive order. When Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. sought a vote on legislation to reverse the ban, Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., objected. Trump also fired acting Attorney Gen. Sally Yates on this day when she refused to defend the travel ban. Jan. 29 Temporary stay issued on travel ban A Boston federal court temporarily put Trumps travel ban on hold for one week. The ruling stipulated that previously approved refugees, valid visa holders and lawful permanent residents or travelers from the seven countries included in Trumps order could not be detained or removed from the U.S. because of the executive order. Jan. 28 Federal judge issues emergency injunction against ban A federal judge in New York issued an emergency order blocking, in part, the executive order. U.S. District Judge Ann Donnellys ruling temporarily barred the U.S. from deporting people who arrived with a valid visa or who had already completed a refugee application. As dozens of people were detained after their planes landed in the U.S., massive protests erupted at airports nationwide. Jan. 27 Trump signs executive order barring travel from seven Muslim-majority nations Trump signed an executive order which immediately barred entry into the U.S. for the citizens of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. The order, dubbed Protection the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States, also halted the U.S. refugee program for 120 days, but indefinitely barred all Syrian refugees from entering the country. Fox News' Barnini Chakraborty, Bill Mears and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Archaeologists in Egypt have discovered the remains of an ancient temple belonging to King Ramses II. Egypts Ministry of Antiquities says that the discovery was made by an Egyptian-Czech mission in the village of Abusir southwest of Cairo. The excavation site is near the famous step pyramid of Saqqara. In a statement on Sunday, Miroslav Barta, the head of the Czech team, said the temple is the only evidence of the presence of Ramses II in the Badrashin area in Giza, part of Greater Cairo. TOMB OF KING TUTS WIFE DISCOVERED? EXPERTS EXCITED BY FIND IN EGYPT He said the discovery confirms the continued worship of the sun god "Ra" in Abusir, which started in the 5th Dynasty, over 4,500 years ago. A pharaoh of the 19th Dynasty of Egypt, Ramses II reigned in the 13th century B.C. In a Facebook post, the Ministry of Antiquities explained that the temple is 105 feet by 167 feet. Mud brick foundations for a pylon, or monumental gateway, have been discovered. The remains of a large forecourt leading to a hall of pillars, parts of which were painted blue, were also found. YALE ARCHAEOLOGISTS MAKE AMAZING ANCIENT EGYPTIAN 'BILLBOARD' DISCOVERY At the end of the forecourt a staircase or a ramp leading to a sanctuary was also found. The rear of the sanctuary was divided into three parallel chambers, according to archaeologists. The remains of the building were covered with sand and pieces of stone, which may be the parts of a polychrome relief that once adorned the structures wall. The relief fragments are connected to the cult of the sun gods Amun and Ra, as well as the goddess Nekhbet. The temple is the latest ancient Egyptian discovery to thrill experts. Archaeologists, for example, recently unearthed three tombs from an ancient great cemetery in Egypts Nile Valley. In July archaeologists said that a tomb that may have belonged to the wife of King Tutankhamun had been discovered in Egypts Valley of the Kings. ARCHAEOLOGISTS DISCOVER TOMBS FROM ANCIENT 'GREAT CEMETERY' IN EGYPT'S NILE VALLEY In June, archaeologists from Yale and the Royal Museum of Art and History in Belgium announced the discovery of the earliest-known billboard-sized hieroglyphs in the ancient city of Elkab. Other finds include a 3,000-year-old royal tomb in the Luxor area and the tomb of an ancient gold worker on Sai Island in northern Sudan. The Associated Press contributed to this article. Follow James Rogers on Twitter @jamesjrogers A tanker crew made a startling find when they raised their ships anchor off Englands South Coast last week an old unexploded torpedo. The anchors fluke had pierced the torpedo as it landed on the seabed, and then dragged it up from a depth of about 49 feet. Extremely corroded, the British-made weapon is believed to be a test torpedo from a range that existed in that area until the 1980s. Test torpedoes often contain highly flammable propellant, according to the Royal Navy, which sent a specialist diving unit to the scene. TRAGIC TITANIC LETTER SURFACES: VICTIM'S SEA-STAINED NOTE UP FOR AUCTION Most of the crew were evacuated from the tanker by the Royal Navy, with just a handful remaining on board to fight any fires if the torpedo exploded. The tanker was carrying approximately 1000 tonnes of fuel or oil, explained Royal Navy Lieutenant Commander Jonathan Campbell, in a statement. The fuel cargo was pumped into the aftermost possible tanks to reduce the effects of any explosion, and fire hoses were charged and ready to deploy if needed. 1,000 tonnes equals 1,102 tons. We directed the ship to use her other anchor to steady her, before lowering the fouled anchor, and the torpedo, to several metres below the waterline, added Campbell. Royal Navy divers then carefully removed the torpedo. "Working parts inside the torpedo could be seen from where the anchor fluke had ruptured it, said Campbell. The entire bomb disposal team were professional and got on with the job in hand. NEW DISCOVERY HINTS AT STILL FURTHER TREASURES HIDDEN AT FAMOUS SHIPWRECK Once the torpedo was released, the Royal Navy team took it to the seabed and destroyed it. The entire operation, from removing the torpedo to destroying it on the seabed took about seven hours. The merchant vessels crew, Campbell added, was thoroughly relieved to be separated from their unwelcome burden. An extremely rare sea-stained letter recovered from the body of a Titanic victim will be auctioned in the U.K. on Saturday. The letter was written on embossed Titanic stationery by First Class passenger Alexander Oskar Holverson to his mother on April 13, 1912 when the ship had embarked on her fateful maiden voyage from Southampton, U.K. If all goes well we will arrive in New York Wednesday A.M, writes Holverson, on the eve of the famous disaster. DID THIS ICEBERG SINK THE TITANIC? Titanic hit an iceberg at 11:40 p.m. ship's time on April 14, 1912 and sank just over two hours later with the loss of more than 1,500 lives. Holverson was among the victims. The letter, which he clearly planned to mail on the Titanics arrival in New York, was apparently found in a pocket book when Holversons body was recovered from the Atlantic. It was eventually returned to his family with his other effects. The salesman and his wife, Mary Alice, were returning from a vacation in Buenos Aires via the U.K. Mrs. Holverson survived the disaster. TITANIC TREASURES SOLD AT UK AUCTION Henry Aldridge & Son auctioneer Andrew Aldridge told Fox News that, in his opinion, the note is the most important letter written on board Titanic ever to come to market. It is exceptional on every level including content, historical context and rarity, he explained, via email. This letter represents one of the last known letters to have survived the sinking and the last known letter written on board by a victim. This boat is giant in size and fitted up like a palatial hotel, Holverson writes, in the letter. He also describes the music and food on board the doomed liner and mentions seeing famed businessman American businessman John Jacob Astor and his wife Madeleine on the ships deck. Astor, a pillar of New York society, is one of the most notable victims of the disaster. His wife was rescued from one of Titanics lifeboats. Holverson's mention of seeing fellow First Class passenger John Jacob Astor sitting out on deck is an observation the likes of which we have not seen in previous letters written earlier in the voyage, particularly because as a First Class passenger Holverson had access passengers in other classes did not, notes Aldridge. FOR THE LATEST SCITECH FEATURES FOLLOW FOX NEWS SCITECH ON FACEBOOK The tragic letter also bears stains from the waters of the Atlantic. The stains give testament to the reaction of the acid-rich paper with salt water, Aldridge explained. The lot also includes an original photograph of Holverson and his wife leaving for South America prior to their journey on Titanic and some unrelated handwritten letters from Holverson's mother to his brother, Walter. The lot has a pre-sale estimate of $79,031 to $105,375. A number of artifacts from the doomed ship were auctioned in the U.K. last year, with the sextant used by the captain of rescue ship Carpathia selling for just under $97,000. Three photos and a handwritten note detailing the grisly discovery of Titanics last lifeboat were sold for $6,800. Follow James Rogers on Twitter @jamesjrogers The legendary Bigfoot and other creatures like it have reportedly been spotted near a Northern California lake, according to a paranormal investigator. Jeffrey Gonzalez, a self-described paranormal expert, said he heard about the sighting from a local farmer who said he saw the creature and five others running on his ranch near Avocado Lake. One of them, which was extremely tall, had a pig over its shoulder," Gonzalez said in comments obtained by Fox 26, a Fox News affiliate. "And the five scattered and the one with the pig was running so fast it didnt see an irrigation pipe and it tripped, with the pig flying over." 'BIGFOOT' REPORTEDLY SPOTTED IN NORTH CAROLINA FOREST According to his Facebook page, Gonzalez is a talk show host and an investigator at Paranormal Central, in addition to being a technician at AT&T. He also founded the Sanger Paranormal Society. Gonzalez said that the sighting is not that uncommon, with three additional Bigfoot sightings in the past five years, all located in East Fresno County. I would have never guessed in a million years that you would have told me there were Bigfoot on Shields or Ashlan Avenue. Right? So, I want to know whats going on. Is this for real? Gonzalez added. He recounted two others stories, including one from a woman who said her two sons saw a Bigfoot in their orchard and one from a man who saw five creatures in the same orchard. What are the odds of three people, three different families, who dont know each other, within a radius of 2 to 3 miles, come and tell me what they witness, and it matches up, Gonzalez said. The images are reminiscent of the famous Patterson-Gimlin film footage from the 1960s. In the footage, Roger Patterson and his partner, Robert Gimlin, shot a short motion picture the filmmakers have said was a Bigfoot. Experts have bandied about for years whether the footage was real or fake, though Patterson maintained it was real until his death in 1972. This story originally appeared in Fox 26. In an instant, the entire country of North Korea would blackout such is the power of new bombs under development in South Korea. South Korea has announced it is building blackout bombs. And by doing so, the country has sent a clear message to North Korea that it has the power to turn off the lights throughout the country whenever South Korea chooses. North Korea would be paralyzed. Electrical power plants would suddenly stop. Everything depending on electricity would instantly be shut off. North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un would be cut off from his population and no longer able to communicate with his citizens since television and radio would be offline. Paralyze North Korea Without electricity, North Korean leadership, government and military would be instantly and utterly crippled. For the North Korean military, this weapon would mean things like air defenses, radar, communication systems, transportation and much more would be unusable. There would be no military or government computers, no email and no way to transmit secure military communication. With the runway lights shut off, it would make it very difficult for the North Korean military to mount an air force response. Hospitals, military and civilian alike, would be without critical power and rely on back-up generators if they have them. Lights Out for the North Korean population This sort of bomb would have widespread devastating effects on the North Korean population. In modern life, many things rely on electricity. North Koreans would have no electricity, no lights, no water purification, no sewage management and with the looming freezing temperatures of winter they would have no heating. South Korea's Agency for Defence Development has obtained the necessary ingredients and technologies to make these graphite bombs and is ready to develop them, Yonhap news agency reported. These bombs will be one element of the Kill Chain pre-emptive strike program. So what is a blackout bomb? Blackout bombs are graphite bombs they are also sometimes called soft bombs because they are non-lethal weapons that target electricity supply, not humans. The electricity attack system is used to shut down an enemys power supply. Once unleashed, the bombs can instantly paralyze an enemys regime. PODCAST: HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR PERFORMANCE WITH A SPECIAL OPERATIONS EXPERT WHO WORKS WITH NBA, MLB, MMA, NCAA AND ELITE US SOF Making Kim Jong Un look powerless to his people These graphite bombs have simply enormous impact. In general, there is no real material damage. Rather than blow things up, graphite bombs short circuit the targets. But the impact of a country suddenly going dark can be very powerful. And while less visible, but by no means less important, these graphite bomb weapons have a major psychological impact. Kim Jong Un hardly looks like a powerful leader to his population when another country can choose to turn his nations power off whenever they want to or need to. So while attacking the electrical grid has direct impact on military capabilities, it could also put immediate and intense psychological pressure on North Koreas leadership and its population. How does it work? The bombs rely on the same ingredient as the humble, everyday, ordinary pencil graphite. Inside the bomb is graphite filament and graphite is a highly efficient electricity conductor. Unlike conventional explosives, graphite bombs do not strike the target and blow up. The graphite bomb instead explodes in the air above a power plant. When it explodes, the graphite filaments are so fine that they seem like a cloud. The bomb unleashes this cloud of graphite particles across the electricity system. The graphite causes short circuits and electrical discharges, blowing safety devices and burning out essential parts in the electrical supply. The blackout graphite cloud can hit power plants, transformer stations, power lines and more. The result is darkness. A nations electricity suddenly stops without warning. PODCAST: FEARLESS FREEDOM WITH SPECIAL FORCES SNIPER AND HUNTING HITLER STAR TIM KENNEDY Is the blackout permanent? The carbon-graphite particles can be easily brushed away. Short circuits can be removed. Blown switching stations can be replaced. But repairing the system can be costly and take time. So a blackout is not necessarily permanent if North Korea took action to fix the power. However, South Korea could just continue to drop graphite bombs so that every time North Korea came close to restoring power or managed to do so, the bombs would flick the nations switch and turn off the lights again. But do they actually work? Blackout bombs have been used in war already and been very successful. They were first used by the United States in Iraq during the 1990 Gulf War. They succeeded in disabling about 85 percent of Iraqs facilities that supplied electricity. NATO has also deployed graphite bombs. They were used in former Yugoslavia in 1999 where they stopped about 70 percent of the national grid electricity supply. The American version of the graphite bomb is the BLU-114/B and it works sort of like a cluster bomb. The bomb scatters many soda can-sized canisters that could be described as "sub-munitions." These canisters spray the fine carbon fiber that cause the short circuits. The graphite bomb approach dates farther back that the Gulf War. It was under consideration during the Cold War as a possible method to defeat Soviet nuclear power plants. A Georgia woman says she and her fellow Delta passengers were prevented from singing the national anthem as crews unloaded the casket of a fallen soldier at Atlantas airport last weekend. Pamela Dee Gaudry was on a flight toward Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport when she says she learned that the body of a fallen soldier 29-year-old Army Staff Sgt. Dustin Wright was on her plane. DELTA AIRLINES PAYS WOMAN $4,000 TO GIVE UP HER SEAT Gaudry, the wife of a deceased Navy captain, wanted to honor the Special Forces soldier who was among four U.S. troops killed in an attack in Niger on Oct. 4, by singing the national anthem. She then went around the cabin asking each passenger if they would join her in singing for the fallen soldier, reports Fox 5 Atlanta. "I thought it would be so amazing if we sang as they were getting off," Gaudry said in a Facebook video. "It's a great honor to the boy's parents, wife and perhaps children." Gaudry says some people were enthusiastic about singing, telling her they would join in, while others chose not to participate. CHELSEA HANDLER TO 'BOYCOTT' DELTA AIRLINES OVER MISTAKEN 600 PERCENT PRICE INCREASE As the flight neared its destination, however, Gaudry says the chief flight attendant came up to her and informed her it was against Deltas policy to sing the national anthem. Gaudry claims the attendant then explained how some of the passengers were from other countries, and may be offended by them singing the national anthem. The staff also made an announcement to the cabin, instructing everyone to stay in their seats and remain quiet, she says. Gaudry alleges that many of her fellow passengers were upset by the announcement, and one passenger told her all we can do is pray. "I'm humiliated by my lack of courage to sing the national anthem in my own country on American soil, with a deceased soldier on the plane. I wish I could have been an example for my children," Gaudry said. "Im glad my former husband is deceased because he would have been profoundly disappointed in me." Angered, Gaudry posted a video on Facebook once her plane landed, explaining the incident. Her video has since gone viral, garnering nearly one million views and the attention of Delta. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS In a statement obtained by Fox News, a spokesperson for Delta Air Lines has confirmed that Delta does not have a policy the prevents people from singing the national anthem, and that they have reached out to Gaudry regarding the incident. "Our employees worldwide take great pride in Deltas longstanding support of the military. The respectful ceremony of the Delta Honor Guard is one symbol of Deltas pledge to the men and women of the armed forces, and it represents our broad commitment to our veterans and active-duty service members," writes Delta in its statement. "Delta does not have a policy regarding the national anthem. We have reached out to the customer and are looking into this situation." Gaudry says the airline did indeed contact her about the flight, offering an apology and explaning that the flight attendant had been misinformed it is not company policy to prevent passengers from singing the national anthem. "Evidently, they had a flight attendant that made some bad decisions in trying to make this situation go away. They are going to do some training for the future," she said. "Delta was very reverent and let the honor guards do a wonderful thing to honor each and every soldier that comes home with this beautiful tribute. For just this reason, I personally do not believe in a boycott of Delta." "Delta has apologized to me. Profusely. I accept. Like many things in life it should have been handled differently. I am not throwing any stones, she added. Gaudry said she was also contacted by Dustin Wrights family, who thanked her. From a lawyer who claims United Airlines gave her seat away to a Democratic congresswoman, to a singer allegedly barred from an airline lounge over her footwear, airline controversies are neither few nor far between. The rising prominence of social media, and a near-monopoly of the airline industry, are contributing to the growing news of airline customers being unduly inconvenienced as they travel, attorney Arthur Alan Wolk, who specializes in aviation law, told Fox News. These incidents are happening more because airlines feel that theyre empowered to abuse their passengers more and feel that there are no consequences, Wolk said. Wolk says that chances of the airline industry improving for customers is bleak, even nil. Read on for a look at some recent airline controversies. Canine companion A dog in a TSA-compliant pet carrier died after a flight attendant forced its owner to store the animal and its carrier in an overhead bin for the duration of the four-hour March 12 United flight from Houston to New York City. First reported by travel blogger The Points Guy, United has since claimed full responsibility for the tragic accident. According to passenger Maggie Gremminger, she and others heard the black French bulldog barking initially during the four-hour flight, and were horrified to learn the animal had passed away later in the trip, she told People. A stranger offered to hold her newborn while she sat on the floor, there in the airplane aisle. She was holding her dog and rocking back and forth. Her daughter was also crying, Gremminger told the publication of the scene following the discovery. Gremminger told People once the dog was found dead, the flight attendant became "frazzled" and insisted she did not know there was a live animal in the carrier. I want to help this woman and her daughter. They lost their dog because of an @united flight attendant. My heart is broken, Gremminger wrote on Twitter, sharing a photo of the family who allegedly lost their dog. A pet traveling in cabin must be carried in an approved hard-sided or soft-sided kennel, United's pet policy says. The kennel must fit completely under the seat in front of the customer and remain there at all times. United Airlines spokesperson Maggie Schmerin returned Fox News request for comment with the following statement: This was a tragic accident that should never have occurred, as pets should never be placed in the overhead bin. We assume full responsibility for this tragedy and express our deepest condolences to the family and are committed to supporting them, she said. Schmerin added, We are thoroughly investigating what occurred to prevent this from ever happening again." Family matters A woman upset about sitting next to an 8-month-old boy and his mother was booted from a Delta-operated flight on Feb. 6, the Daily Mail reports. Mother Marissa Rundell Rundell shared a 45-second video clip of the incident to Facebook on Feb. 6. In it, a woman identified by Spectrum News as Susan Peirez a program director at the New York State Council of the Arts can be heard telling a flight attendant that she works for the governor before complaining about being seated next to a crying baby. Peirez then threatened to have the flight attendant fired when she learned she couldnt be moved to a new seat. Rundell also told the Daily Mail that Peirez told her to shut the f--- up and shove it just prior to the start of the footage, after Rundell asked Peirez to watch her language around the baby. Peirez could also be seen attempting to apologize to the flight attendant, but was ultimately booted after the staff member accused Peirez of having just "screamed at [Rundell] and her baby." Ronni Reich, a director of public information for the New York State Council of the Arts, later confirmed to Spectrum News that Peirez had been placed on leave. State employees are and must be held to the highest standard both professionally and personally, said Reich. We were notified of this situation and have commenced an investigation. Rundell, however, has said she did not post her video to Facebook with the intention of getting Peirez suspended from her position. "I don't [often] post really anything," Rundell told Inc. "This was a one-time thing and it happened I totally was caught off guard with everyone who has been watching it. I didn't even realize that many people could see what I was posting." Political privilege? United passenger Jean-Marie Simon says the airline gave her first-class seat on a December 2018 flight to Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat. United, Simon claims, threatened to yank her from the flight after she complained and took a photo of the politician, the Houston Chronicle reports. A gate attendant at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston told Simon during boarding that her ticket wasnt in the system, the newspaper reported. Told her seat was taken, Simon was reportedly put in Economy Plus and received a $500 voucher. We were concerned by this issue and took immediate steps to fully understand what happened. After thoroughly examining our electronic records, we found that upon receiving a notification that Flight 788 was delayed due to weather, the customer appears to have canceled her flight from Houston to Washington, D.C., within the United mobile app, United told Fox News in a statement. As part of the normal preboarding process, gate agents began clearing standby and upgrade customers, including the first customer on the waitlist for an upgrade. Simon disputed Uniteds claim that she canceled her ticket. Since this was not any fault of mine, the way the individual continued to act appeared to be, upon reflection, because I was an African-American woman, seemingly an easy target along with the African-American flight attendant who was very, very nice, Jackson-Lee said in a staatement. This saddens me, especially at this time of year given all of the things we have to work on to help people. But in the spirit of this season and out of the sincerity of my heart, if it is perceived that I had anything to do with this, I am kind enough to simply say sorry. Simon told the Houston Chronicle that the congresswomans remarks were accusing her of racism. I had no idea who was in my seat when I complained at the gate that my seat had been given to someone else; there is no way you can see who is in a seat from inside the terminal, Simon told the newspaper. Footwear fail English singer Joanne Catherall, a vocalist for The Human League, made international headlines after she said that she was denied entry to a business-class Qantas lounge in Melbourne, Australia. Denied access @Qantas business class lounge in @MelairMelbourne Airport apparently Ugg (Australia) Boots are deemed sleepwear by the lady working there although no problem in any of the other lounges so far, she tweeted. Helpfully she suggested I go to one of the shops & purchase some shoes. Hi Joanne, we endeavour to remain consistent and uphold our Lounge's dress guidelines to all our guests, the airline tweeted, including a link to its domestic-lounge dress guidelines, which considers Uggs sleepwear. Why would an @UGG boot I wear outdoors in all weathers be classed as sleepwear in @Qantas lounge but nowhere else that I have ever been on this earth ? Catherall asked. Hi Joanne, we don't accept them in our lounges as you can see on the dress-guidelines, another airline tweet said. Strange I had no problem in either the Perth or Adelaide @Qantas lounges wearing my Uggs even though they are apparently on the no go list in those 2 airports as well, Catherall tweeted. The airline's reply here? Understood Joanne, bear in mind each lounge is subject to the discretion of the team. We'll pass your feedback on so we can improve our services. We completely understand that no one likes being declined at the door but we've always had smart casual dress standards for our lounges, which are similar for those in place for most clubs and restaurants, a Qantas spokesperson told The Independent. "Over the past couple of years, we have had clear feedback from lounge members that they wanted these existing guidelines to be applied more rigorously." Lewd comments Randi Zuckerberg, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg's sister, claimed that a fellow passenger on her Alaska Airlines flight to Mexico made "lewd sexual remarks" toward her. Zuckerberg claims that the staff on the flight stood by and let it happen, with one flight attendant reportedly telling her, Dont take it personally, this guy just doesnt have a filter. Shortly after her flight, on Nov. 29, Zuckerberg penned a letter to Alaska Airlines detailing the incident. He started talking to me about touching himself, kept asking me if I fantasized about the female business colleague I was traveling with, rated and commented on the womens bodies boarding the aircraft as they walked by us, and many more equally horrifying and offensive comments, she said in the letter, as seen in her Twitter post. Alaska Airlines began an investigation into the incident, the airline said in a tweet. The passenger who allegedly made the comments was temporarily suspended from the airline, Zuckerberg wrote in a later tweet. Mother's concern Harvard Law student Briana Williams claims she and her daughter were booted from an American Airlines flight over the summer after she requested the 4-year-old's stroller while the plane was delayed, the New York Daily News reported. Williams, 24, told the newspaper their Aug. 21. New York City-bound flight was delayed for several hours. The plane reportedly went back to the gate and passengers were told to get off. Williams asked the airline staff for the stroller, which had been checked, while she was exiting, the paper recounted. The staff declined. I told a crew member that I was not going to be leaving the aircraft without my stroller, Williams said. She later spoke to the "very disgruntled and aggressive" pilot, and says he contacted police to boot her from the flight. Williams and her daughter were put on a flight in the morning, the report said. The pilot put me in a potentially dangerous situation with law enforcement as a young, black woman, saying that I was a threat, Williams, who intends to pursue legal action, told the paper. "This type of rhetoric paralyzes the African-American community, and I want to ensure that policies are put in place that regulate the pilots discretionary abilities. She says she turned down American's offer of 25,000 miles. The airline told Fox News putting her on a different flight was in "the best interest of everyone involved," and said it offered her the miles. The carrier also said it "does not tolerate discrimination of any kind." MOM CLAIMS AMERICAN AIRLINES REMOVED HER FROM FLIGHT OVER STROLLER Patriotic display In October, a Georgia woman said she was prohibited from singing the national anthem with fellow passengers aboard a Delta flight which was also carrying one of the four U.S. troops killed that same month during an attack in Niger. Pamela Dee Gaudry, who is married to a Vietnam War veteran, enlisted the support of other passengers and planned to sing the anthem to honor the fallen soldier and his family. But in a now-viral Facebook video, Gaudry said she was prevented from singing by the chief flight attendant, who informed her the song was against Deltas policies. She also said in her video that she was humiliated by what she saw as her lack of courage for following orders and not singing. Since her video, Gaudry said she has been offered an apology from Delta, and the airline also confirmed that the national anthem is not against its policies. Seat change without explanation In a series of tweets, right-wing commentator Ann Coulter slammed Delta for giving away her seat to another woman on a flight from New York to West Palm Beach, Florida, on July 15, 2017. Coulter later told Fox News that as she was boarding, a ticket agent snatched the ticket" and informed her that her seat had changed due to an emergency. DELTA PAYS WOMAN $4,000 TO GIVE UP HER SEAT She said that she sat in the original seat anyway until she was told to move by a stewardess who was not able to give an explanation for the seat change. [The other passenger] was not an elderly person, was not a sickly person, a very tall person, Coulter said. Party of five A family of five said they were unfairly kicked off a JetBlue flight on July 2, 2017, after a confrontation with an airline employee. Tamir and Mandy Raanan said they were traveling from Fort Lauderdale to New York with their three young daughters one of whom kicked the back of another passengers seat. Mandy said she apologized to the other passenger, but the family were still asked to leave the plane. JetBlue said in a statement that the incident was not as innocent as described. After a verbal altercation that included physical threats and profanities against a nearby customer, the aircraft door was reopened and our airports team politely asked the customers to step off to discuss the situation, JetBlue said. The airline thanked its employees for their professional handling of the situation and said it would investigate whether the customers behavior warrants restrictions on JetBlue travel in the future. Quite the erreur Lucie Bahetoukilae, who only speaks French, handed her ticket to an airline employee and boarded a plane in Newark, New Jersey, thinking the next stop would be Paris. When she got to her seat and found another woman in it, a flight attendant sat her in an empty seat. Nearly 3,000 miles later, Bahetoukilae touched down in San Francisco. In what United Airlines deemed a horrible failure in May, Bahetoukilae boarded the wrong plane after her flights gate switched at the last minute. She said the announcement wasnt made in French, and she didnt receive an email notifying her of the gate change. CHELSEA HANDLER TO BOYCOTT DELTA OVER MISTAKEN PRICE HIKE Once in San Francisco, Bahetoukilae had to wait 11 hours before United was able to get her on a flight to France. Diane Miantsoko, the womans niece, told WABC-TV that she was worried about Uniteds security protocol. "She could have been a terrorist and killed people on that flight and they didn't know they didn't catch it." Diane Miantsoko "With everything going on in this country, people have to be more careful," Miantsoko said. "They didn't pay attention. My aunt could have been anyone. She could have been a terrorist and killed people on that flight and they didn't know they didn't catch it." United apologized for the mistake in a statement and said it is working with our team in Newark to prevent this from happening again. Whose seat is it, anyway? Delta apologized after a California couple and their two children were booted from an overbooked plane when the parents refused to give up an extra seat they had purchased. Brian Schear said he, his wife and two children boarded a flight from Maui, Hawaii, to Los Angeles on April 23, 2017, and were asked to give up an additional seat they had purchased for their older son -- he had ended up taking a different flight. Since the son wasnt present, Schear said the family planned to use his seat for one of the younger children. AIRLINE COMPLAINTS DOWN LAST YEAR DESPITE MORE CASES OF BUMPING But the flight was overbooked, and Schear was asked to give up the seat. When the family refused, they were made to leave the plane. The family booked new tickets home on another airline. We are sorry for the unfortunate experience our customers had with Delta, and weve reached out to them to refund their travel and provide additional compensation, the airline said. Id rather go to jail Dr. David Dao was seated on a United fight in Chicago bound for Louisville, Kentucky, on April 9, 2017, when he was asked to give up his seat on an overbooked flight to make room for crew members. Dao refused, explaining that he was a doctor who needed to be at work early the next morning. Im not going, Dao repeatedly said. Id rather go to jail. Disturbing cellphone footage showing Dao being dragged off the plane, seemingly unconscious, by security officials went viral. During the altercation, Dao suffered a concussion, lost two of his teeth and broke his nose, his attorney said. Dao and United reached an amicable settlement later in April. We look forward to implementing the improvements we have announced, which will put our customers at the center of everything we do, United said in a statement at the time of the settlement. Fox News' Janine Puhak, Alexandra Deabler, Michael Bartiromo, Kaitlyn Schallhorn and Madeline Farber contributed to this report. If you think pumpkins are only good for carving or flavoring lattes, think again. On Oct. 28, pumpkin and plane enthusiasts alike will unite at St. Charles County Smartt Airport near St. Louis for the ninth annual Pumpkin Drop, during which pilots fly out of the public airport to pumpkin bomb for both show and sport. Run by the St. Charles Flying Service, president Dennis Bampton told Fox News that the flight schools signature event is fun for the entire family, and boasts a full schedule of events. DELTA PASSENGER CLAIMS EDIBLE MARIJUANA MADE HIM PUNCH FLIGHT ATTENDANT Festivities commence with a 10 a.m. competition, with pilots flying their own or rented aircraft to drop pumpkins onto a target in hopes of winning prize money, Bampton said. Later that day, at 1:30 p.m., a restored World War II B25 Bomber and Torpedo Bomber from the Commemorative Air Force are loaded up with pumpkins for a grand display. Soaring high in the sky for bomb runs, the pilots then releases the gourds, attempting to smash them on an old trainer airplane used as an additional target. COMPETITIVE HOT AIR BALLOONING IS VERY REAL, AND VERY INTENSE Spectators can get up close and personal with the exhibition from a safely sectioned off area. Even better, in case any folks are overcome with sudden (understandable) desire to go pumpkin-bomb themselves, flight instructors will be available at the hangar to answer any questions relative to becoming a pilot, added Bampton. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS So don't assume every use for the pumpkin had been exhausted autumns omnipresent gourd has snuck up and surprised us again. And from the sky, this time. Most people know Thanksgiving falls on Nov. 23, and probably already have airline tickets in hand. But if you aren't one of those people, don't freak out there are still a few ways to save. There are also big ways to save for those of us who aren't planning on flying home for Thanksgiving but simply want to book a getaway for the holiday. #1. Shop now If you dont have airline tickets but you're planning to travel for the holiday, buy your airfare ASAP. Since the start of October, procrastinators have been paying a daily "delay surcharge" for each day the ticket purchase is delayed. It adds up, and it's only going to get worse. After an analysis of airfare averages, delays generally cost procrastinators $2 per day in October and $4 per day or more in November. Can it get worse? Sure. On certain routes last year, the daily surcharge averaged over $10 a day, and hikes for flights to Los Angeles in 2016 added an extra $14 per day on average. CANCELED OR DELAYED FLIGHT? HERE'S 5 THINGS YOU CAN DO NOW #2. Use a tool to find cheaper days to fly There are various tools out there including one on FareCompare.com which guides you to cheaper days to fly based on the part of the country youll visit. It also tells you which airlines offer the most deals to various regions. #3. Know the best and worst itineraries Thanksgiving Day is usually the cheapest day to fly during the holiday period, while the most expensive day is usually the Wednesday before and the Sunday after Turkey Day. Bonus tip for go-anywhere travelers: Be flexible Maybe you hate turkey, or maybe you see your family all the time, so Thanksgiving gatherings aren't so special for you. But even though you're not heading to Grandmas house, you might still want to get away. Luckily for you, November can be a perfect month for travel outside the country, and heres how to find the best deals: Use flexible date tools. Again, FareCompare and other sites have tools for this, and what they have in common is that theyre all perfect for flexible travelers. Add your hometown and the month you want to travel and watch the deals pop up. The following fares all round-trip were found late last week: Boston to Amsterdam for $299.98; Los Angeles to Hong Kong for $388; New York to London for $376. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS Still havent purchased your tickets yet? What are you waiting for? Whether you're gathering with family or jetting off for a quick vacation, here's wishing you safe travels, wherever you go. The U.S. Coast Guard suspended its hunt Monday night for a man who vanished after a fiery explosion Sunday on an oil platform on Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana. Rescue teams stopped the search for Timothy Morrison, 44, from Katy, Texas, after a day of looking through the damaged rig, which officials said was difficult due to unreachable areas covered by twisted metal, insufficient equipment and strong winds. "The decision to suspend a search is never an easy one," said Commander Zac Ford said. "We send our thoughts and prayers to the Morrison family and all those affected by this incident." The Clovelly Oil Co. platform exploded while maintenance was being done on the structure, sending a fireball high into the night sky, investigators and company officials said. LOUISIANA OIL RIG EXPLODES, AT LEAST 7 INJURED The Kenner government's Facebook page said authorities on the scene reported that cleaning chemicals had ignited on the structure, but the company said the cause of the blast was unknown. The Coast Guard said the a fire aboard the platform was out by midday Monday and that aerial surveys showed no signs of pollution in the water or onshore. Seven people were hurt in the blast and fire, including three who were in critical condition, authorities said. Five of the injured were hospitalized with "blast-type injuries and burns," Mike Guillot, director of East Jefferson Emergency Medical Services said. Two of the three people in critical condition were in a burn unit, Guilot said. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A mother in Ohio, who was arrested after she taped her 2-year-old son to the wall so she could clean, reportedly pleaded guilty to attempted child endangering on Monday. Shayla D. Rudolph, 19, could face up to 18 months in jail following the incident at her home, which she streamed on Facebook Live, The Columbus Dispatch reported. Rudolph posted a video on Jan. 1 that showed her son stuck to the wall, with packaging tape over his head and arms. He could be heard crying in the background despite tape also covering his mouth. The mother spoke to her Facebook audience saying, You cant clean without them running around, tearing up? Tape them to the wall, she said, according to The Dispatch. You cant cook or none of that because theyre running around? Tape them to the wall. MISTRIAL DECLARED IN BURNING-DEATH TRIAL OF 19-YEAR-OLD JESSICA CHAMBERS She also reportedly referred to herself as the best mommy in the whole world before threatening her son to sit still or shed get more tape. When contacted by childrens services about the video, Rudolph told them it was a joke. In a second Facebook Live video, she said to the audience, Go ahead and call Childrens Services now, they can go ahead and take em. In a third video, Rudolph also claimed she could punish her son however she wanted, even hanging him upside down if necessary. Rudolph was arrested by authorities on Jan. 19 and her son was taken into the custody of childrens services. Rudolph was initially indicted on charges of child-endangerment and abduction, but pleaded guilty to a less severe felony charge as part of her plea agreement, The Columbus Dispatch reported. She reportedly will be sentenced by a judge on Dec. 1 and could potentially avoid prison. The judge will review a presentencing investigation report and decide whether probation would be more appropriate, The Dispatch said. A man charged in the slayings of three adults and a young boy in southern Ohio continues to be held without bond. The Ironton Tribune reports 23-year-old Arron Lawson waived a bond hearing on Monday in Ironton Municipal Court. He was ordered held without bond on Saturday after his arrest in Lawrence County on Friday. He's charged in the shooting deaths of 28-year-old Stacey Jackson, 50-year-old Donald McGuire, 43-year-old Tammie McGuire and Jackson's son, 7-year-old Devin Holston. They were killed inside Jackson's home on Wednesday. Devin's body was found hidden there on Thursday after being reported missing. All of the victims are related. Devin's father was hospitalized after being stabbed inside the home. Lawson has been charged with aggravated murder and murder. His attorney hasn't returned calls seeking comment. An Ohio man with an unusual tattoo on his forehead has been charged for his involvement in a sex crime two years ago. Christopher Wilson, 37, was arrested Saturday night and charged with sexual imposition and assault, Fox 19 reported. The Cincinnati man has the words Im a pornstar tattooed on his forehead. Fox 19 reported another vulgar message tattooed below the aforementioned was blurred from his mugshot. Wilson was charged for allegedly punching a woman and then kicking her to get on the ground in 2015, Fox 19 cited of an affidavit. Court documents state the pornstar then allegedly began groping the victim in her private parts. A woman was able to identify Wilson through a police lineup, WCPO reported. Wilson is being held at the Hamilton County Justice Center in Cincinnati with a bond of $50,000, according to WKRC. His attorney reportedly requested an evaluation to determine if Wilson is competent to stand trial. Eighteen inmates allegedly involved in the deadly riot at a Delaware maximum-security prison have been indicted on a series of charges, including murder. The Delaware Department Justice charged 16 of the inmates with first-degree murder, assault and kidnapping stemming from the incident that started Feb. 1, 2017. Two others are charged with kidnapping, riot and conspiracy. Inmates held four correctional workers hostage at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center in Smyrna during the riot, setting off a nearly 20-hour standoff. Lt. Steven Floyd was killed and Correctional Officers Winslow Smith and Joshua Wilkinson were injured as a result of the riot and counselor Patricia May was kidnapped. The siege ended on February 2 after two other guards were released, three others escaped and tactical teams broke through and rescued May. The indictments were handed down Monday by a New Castle County grand jury. All of those charged are currently in Delaware prisons. Eleven of the 18 inmates charged are already doing time for murder or manslaughter. Four of them are already serving life sentences. "This was an extremely important and time-consuming investigation that involved unique challenges." Attorney General Matt Denn said in the statement. "I appreciate the police and prosecutors' focus on ensuring that justice is done for the victims in this case and their families." The Associated Press contributed to this report. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl's guilty plea to charges of endangering comrades in Afghanistan has set up a dramatic sentencing hearing that could land him in prison for life. Bergdahl, who was captured and held by the Taliban for five years after leaving his remote post in Afghanistan in 2009, pleaded guilty Monday to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, a rare charge that carries a potential life sentence. Because Bergdahl had no plea deal with prosecutors, his punishment will be decided by the judge, Army Col. Jeffery R. Nance, at a hearing starting Oct. 23. Bergdahl was thoroughly questioned by Nance at his plea hearing and the soldier acknowledged that his actions -- and subsequent military search missions -- put fellow service members in harm's way. "I left my fellow platoon mates," he told the judge. "That's very inexcusable." At sentencing, the judge is expected to weigh factors including Bergdahl's willingness to accept responsibility by pleading guilty, his time in captivity of the Taliban and its allies and serious wounds to service members who searched for him. "Pleading guilty before a judge without any protection from a deal is a risky move," said Eric Carpenter, a former Army lawyer who teaches law at Florida International University. "The military judge can sentence Bergdahl to zero punishment, but he can also sentence Bergdahl to life in prison." The guilty plea brings the highly politicized saga closer to an end eight years after Bergdahl vanished. President Obama brought him home in 2014 in a swap for five Taliban prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, saying the U.S. does not leave its service members on the battlefield. Republicans roundly criticized Obama, and Donald Trump went further while campaigning for president, repeatedly calling Bergdahl a "dirty, rotten traitor" who deserved to be executed by firing squad or thrown out of a plane without a parachute. Bergdahl, 31, has said he walked away from his remote post in 2009 with the intention of reaching other commanders and drawing attention to what he saw as problems with his unit. "At the time, I had no intention of causing search-and-recovery operations," he said in court. "I believed they would notice me missing, but I didn't believe they would have reason to search for one private." Bergdahl was promoted while in captivity, like all soldiers who are missing in action. But the Hailey, Idaho, native became the subject of a military probe the moment he was freed, and has been assigned to desk duty at a Texas Army base in the meantime. Bergdahl's responses to the judge Monday were some of his most extensive public comments yet. He said he tried to escape from his captors 12 to 15 times, with varying degrees of success. Once, he was on his own for about a week -- hoping U.S. drones would spot him -- before he was recaptured. He said he also tried to escape on his first day in captivity. "As I started running there came shouts, and I was tackled by people. That didn't go so well," said Bergdahl, who spoke in even tones and wore a blue dress uniform. Meanwhile, Bergdahl's fellow service members engaged in firefights that they could have avoided had Bergdahl not gone absent without leave, the judge said. Those firefights left a Navy SEAL with a career-ending leg wound and an Army National Guard sergeant with a head wound that put him in a wheel chair. As for the defense contention that Trump unfairly biased the court-martial against Bergdahl, it was ruled in February that the new president's comments were "disturbing and disappointing" but did not constitute unlawful influence by the soon-to-be commander in chief. New York City police went on an un-bull-lievable two-hour chase Tuesday after a bull escaped a slaughterhouse in Brooklyn and injured a child when it galloped into a park. The bull escaped an unknown slaughterhouse and ran into the south side of Prospect Park about 11 a.m., prompting people strolling in the park to dial 911 to have the animal wrangled. A 1-year-old girl was injured when the bull toppled over her stroller, the New York Daily News reported. I was with my son Kamren and this cow ran out of Prospect Park and ran over a baby girl, said Alexis Small, who was in the park when the unusual incident happened. The mom was just crying and trying to calm her down. She was in such pain, I couldnt even imagine. Police officers scrambled to capture the bull as it continued to run into a car before dashing into the Parade Grounds. The event even sparked a social media debate on whether the animal was a cow or a bull. Hey, has anyone seen a cow? NYC Parks tweeted. Anatomy is incorrect for a cow, that, my friends is a bull. Udders=cow, penis=bull. Collectively=cattle, one user replied. Another person tweeted: This cow is really milking his time in the spotlight.. Officers tranquilized and wrangled the bull around 1:30 p.m. after it appeared to trap itself between two fences. Officials loaded it into an NYPD truck. The bull is headed to Skylands Animal Sanctuary and Rescue in Wantage, N.J., where workers have already named the animal "Shankar," according to WABC-TV. This isnt the first bull run for New Yorkers. A bull roamed the streets of Queens in February for about two hours before he was captured. The bull died shortly after. Former Daily Show host Jon Stewart even saved another runaway bull last year when he transferred it to a safe haven in Watkins Glen. The bull was captured after wandering into CUNYs York College campus. The student government at California State University, Fullerton is considering a resolution denouncing an upcoming College Republican event on Halloween night headlined by conservative provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos. Members of Students for Quality Education, a leftist organization funded by the California Faculty Association, spoke to the CSUF Associated Students, Inc. committee on Thursday in support of the resolution, according to a press release from the College Republicans chapter. ASI's resolution says Yiannopoulos places students who are illegal immigrants, DACA recipients or identify as LGBTQ in jeopardy, and also cites the money previous universities have shelled our for security at a Yiannopoulos event -- upwards of $800,000 recently at UC Berkeley. The group also notes students and community members signed a petition, No Alt-Right Speakers or Hate Groups at CSUF. Organizations on my campus are seeking to define my speech as hate speech and violence, SCUF Republicans Event Director Ryan Hoskins said. This resolution is just one more step towards accomplishing that goal. I hope the student leadership will make the right decision and stand up for free speech. CSUF College Republicans President Amanda McGuire said the issue was solely one of freedom of speech. With a vote to denounce Milo, ASI is sending a signal to conservatives that their voices dont matter and are not represented, McGuire said. The university said it was committed to freedom of expression. While many at the university and the broader community may find Mr. Yiannopoulos remarks distasteful, if not wholly objectionable, the law is clear: what some consider hateful speech is, in fact, protected speech, SCUF spokesman Jeffrey Cook wrote in a statement. Cook referred to SCUF President Mildred Garcias fall welcome message, in which she wrote: We may face language from individuals with whom we strongly disagree. Our commitment to uphold their right to speak should be matched only by our determination to challenge them through civil discourse, peaceful protest, and the hope that education the truest and longest-standing cure for hatred and violence sparks a transformation. Yiannopoulos is set to speak on October 31st, at 6:00 pm, one week after the student government is set to vote on the resolution. Fox News asked ASI for a response, but the committee referred all queries to Cook. From bans on plastic bags to preventing the sale of foie gras, California has enacted plenty of new rules within the past few years in hopes of improving both the environment and quality of life. Despite these efforts, the Golden State has somehow still ranked dead last behind New Jersey and Indiana among U.S. states in quality of life, according to a study by U.S. News. Each state was judged on both natural environment and social environment. "A person's quality of life is largely a result of their interactions with those around them," the magazine wrote. U.S. News also ranked each state in seven other areas, which were weighted based on a survey that determined their importance to the public: health care, education, economy, opportunity, infrastructure, crime and corrections and fiscal stability. Though the state seemed to fail U.S. News' tests, that doesn't mean politicians are ready to give up. Here's a look at some bans and regulations the state has enforced (or might soon). Mandated solar panels The first state in nation to do so, California is mandating all new homes have solar panels. In an effort to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions, the new regulation requires all homes and apartments built after 2020 to have the solar panels. This regulation will add about $10,000 in construction costs to single-family homes. However, according to the California Energy Commission which approved the policy in a unanimous vote on May 9, the panels could generate more energy savings. No non-rescue animals in pet stores California will become the first state to prohibit pet stores from selling dogs, cats or rabbits that aren't rescues, thanks to legislation signed by Gov. Jerry Brown in October. Starting in January 2019, pet stores will be required to obtain animals from a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group that is in a cooperative agreement with at least one private or public shelter. Stores will face up to $500 fines for the sale of each animal that is not determined to be a rescue, according to the Los Angeles Times. The bill's passage also makes California the first state to ban the sale of animals from so-called puppy mills or mass breeding. No more cosmetics testing on animals Sen. Cathleen Galigiana, D-Stockton, also hopes California will become the first state to ban cosmetics testing on animals. Galigiana's bill, called the California Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Act, would make it illegal for any cosmetic manufacturer to "knowingly import or sell any cosmetic, including personal hygiene products such as deodorant, shampoo or conditioner in California, if the final product or any component of the product was tested on animals after Jan. 1, 2020. Violators would face a fine up to $500 for their first offense, and up to $1,000 for each subsequent violation. Ban on plastic bags California became the first state in the U.S. to ban single-use plastic bags in 2015, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. Businesses that continue to offer the bags have to charge customers a fee. Limit state-funded travel California blocked state-funded travel to multiple states in June that had what the state attorney general considered anti-LGBT policies. Those states were: Alabama, Kentucky, South Dakota and Texas. Non-essential state-funded travel was already banned from Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina and Tennessee. Restriction on pets California bars the possession of certain restricted animals without a specific permit, including hamsters, ferrets and gerbils. Hedgehogs, certain parakeets and piranhas are also banned from being kept as pets. Cars with internal combustion engines could go Cars with internal combustion engines could soon be banned in California. Mary Nichols, the California Air Resources Board chair, told Bloomberg that Gov. Jerry Brown is interested in a potential ban. However, she said banning cars with internal combustion engines wouldnt happen in the next 10 years. CALIFORNIA COULD BAN CARS WITH INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES, REGULATOR SAYS Foie gras is a faux pas Californias foie gras ban was reinstated in September by a federal appeals court. It found that a state law preventing sales of the food product made by force-feeding ducks and geese was not preempted by federal authority to regulate poultry products. The ban was signed into law in 2004 after proponents said the process of fattening the birds livers was cruel and inhumane. The law took effect in 2012, but was blocked by a court in 2015, delighting chefs who wanted to serve it. Fox News' Jennifer Earl, Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Brooke Singman and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Drones attempting to capture footage of the widespread devastation from the California wildfires are impeding efforts to contain the blaze and posing a serious threat to the firefighters attempting to smother the flames, officials said. The California Highway Patrol in Santa Rosa issued the warning to drone operators on Sunday after several of the devices were seen flying over the burnt land. Cal Fire is reporting drones in the Petaluma area. FIRE FIGHTING PLANES CANNOT FLY IF YOUR DRONE IS IN THE AIR! Land them if you want these fires out! officials wrote on the California Highway Patrol Santa Rosa Facebook page. Nestor Rodriguez, 24, who was flying his drone over a Petaluma airport, was arrested on Sunday, Mercury News reported. Firefighting helicopters were forced to remain grounded for at least 10 minutes while Rodriguezs device was flying around. He was cited for impeding emergency personnel. BOILING RIVER OF WINE FLOWS THROUGH BURNED DOWN CALIFORNIA WINERY The wildfires ravaging northern Californias wine country for more than a week killed at least 40 people and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses. Most of the deaths were reported in Sonoma. Homeowners came back to their houses over the weekend to find them completely demolished or damaged --but, in many cases, still standing. Tom Andrews told The Associated Press he was in disbelief to find his house still standing despite other surrounding structures having been completely destroyed. "It was disbelief and just feeling like the luckiest guy on earth," Andrews said. "I can't believe, I mean, total destruction 50 feet away and to have our house still standing here." Evacuation orders were lifted Monday night in two neighborhoods in Sonoma County, though the firefighters were still trying to put out the blaze. About 11,000 firefighters have been working to extinguish the wildfires. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Mexican law enforcement officers last weekend arrested the man believed to be the final fugitive from the rip crew that engaged in a 2010 gunfight between Border Patrol agents that resulted in the death of agent Brian Terry. Jesus Rosario Favela Astorga was charged Monday with first-degree murder in the killing of Terry. "The arrest of Favela Astorga resulted from the unwavering commitment of the United States and our law enforcement partners in Mexico to bring to justice those responsible for the murder of Agent Brian Terry, who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country," Alana Robinson, the acting U.S. attorney, said in a statement. Terry was killed on Dec. 14, 2010 in a gunfight between Border Patrol agents and members of a five-man cartel "rip crew," which regularly patrolled the desert north of Nogales, Ariz., looking for drug dealers to rob. The agent's death exposed Operation Fast and Furious, a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) operation in which the federal government allowed criminals to buy guns in Phoenix-area shops with the intention of tracking them once they made their way into Mexico. But the agency lost track of more than 1,400 of the 2,000 guns they allowed smugglers to buy. Two of those guns were found at the scene of Terry's killing. The operation set off a political firestorm, and then-Attorney General Eric Holder was held in contempt of Congress after he refused to divulge documents for a congressional investigation. Four members of the "rip crew" have already been sentenced to jail time in the U.S. Manual Osorio-Arellanes was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to first-degree murder in February 2014. In October 2015, Ivan Soto-Barraza and Jesus Sanchez-Meza were convicted by a federal jury of nine different charges, including first-degree murder and attempted armed robbery. That same month, Rosario Rafael Burboa-Alvarez, accused of assembling the "rip crew," was sentenced to 27 years in prison after striking a plea agreement with prosecutors. Fox News' William William Lajeunesse contributed to this report As Halloween nears, so do the clown pranks. Florida deputies have issued a warning after an 11-year-old boy in Volusia County was nearly attacked by a man dressed as a clown, WESH 2 reported. Warning to evil clowns and anyone considering creepy clown activity: We will not be there to save you if your intended target defends himself or herself, and you may face other penalties as well, the sheriffs office said, according to WESH 2. The warning comes after the boy, whose name has not been released, first told a school crossing guard and his teachers that he was riding his bicycle near Pine Ridge High School in Florida when a man dressed as a clown jumped out from behind bushes to scare him. The boy said he then hit the clown multiple times with a metal selfie-stick because he thought the clown was going to attack him, WESH 2 reported. The boy hit the clown out of self-defense, he later told deputies. The clown allegedly tried to grab the boy before chasing him. Eventually the clown retreated and returned to hide in the bushes, the boy told deputies. The clowns identity is currently unknown. A Florida girl, 9, died Saturday after her 325-pound cousin sat on her as a form of punishment for misbehaving, police said. Veronica Green Posey, 64, called paramedics on Saturday afternoon when her cousin, Dericka Lindsay, was found unresponsive, The Pensacola News Journal reported. Posey allegedly told police that she sat on her cousin to discipline for being out of control. Posey allegedly struck the girl with a ruler and metal pipe and sat on her for approximately 10 minutes before the child began to complain about not being able to breathe, the police report reportedly said. When paramedics arrived, Lindsay was unresponsive. She was rushed to Baptist Hospital where she was pronounced dead, The New York Post reported. Posey was charged with homicide and cruelty toward a child, the Pensacola News Journal reported. Lindsays parents have also been charged with child neglect for allegedly failing to report the abuse. All three were taken into custody at Escambia County Jail. A Florida man started shooting at police after he killed a family friend -- who he believed was flirting with his imaginary girlfriend, officials said. WARNING: VIDEO CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE Brian Disario, 30, of Port Richey, allegedly shot and killed his mothers friend, David Armstrong, 56, because he believed the man was flirting with his girlfriend -- who did not exist -- FOX13 reported. Disarios mother reportedly called police after the shooting, saying her son was mentally ill and had shot someone in the garage. "My son shot someone. He is schizophrenic. Please get the officers and ambulance here now. He's got a loaded gun," Disarios mother told police, according to a 911 recording. FLORIDA GIRL DIES AFTER 325-POUND COUSIN SITS ON HER AS A PUNISHMENT, COPS SAY Pasco County Sheriffs Office deputies arrived at the scene holding weapons, body cam footage showed. One of the officers asked Disario to show his hands but the suspect shot at the deputies who returned fire, officials said. Disario began walking toward a school, a few hundred feet away, which was immediately placed on lockdown during the incident. "[The deputies] made a conscious decision to do anything they had to do to protect those kids in school and protect the community," Sheriff Chris Nocco said during a news conference. "Probably moments before this they were driving on patrol and doing what they had to do and seconds later, they're in a life-and-death situation, putting their lives on the line." After the shootout, Disario went back to the home and killed himself, Nocco said. WFLA reported a robot was sent inside the home, where it found Disario dead. STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED IN FLORIDA COUNTY AHEAD OF RICHARD SPENCER SPEECH Nocco said Disario had an AR-15 rifle and .22 caliber rifle. It was not immediately clear how he obtained the guns. The deputies involved in the shootout were placed on administrative leave while police investigated the incident, WFLA reported. A homeless man was sentenced to 1 to 4 years in prison Monday after reportedly pleading guilty to breaking into places of worship in Queens, New York, and robbing them. Joseph Woznik, 24, targeted churches between March 21 and April 10 in the areas of Flushing, Woodside and Elmhurst. "I'm mad at God ... I dont break into houses, only churches. I break in to get back at God," authorities said Woznik told detectives after being arrested, The Daily News reported. Woznik pleaded guilty to burglary as a hate crime and criminal possession of stolen property. The Daily News reported that Woznik pocketed about $1,600 and a digital camera from St James Episcopal Church in Flushing, robbed a donation box at the Blessed Virgin Mary Help of Christians in Woodside and that he broke into St Marys Romanian Orthodox Church in Elmhurst before fleeing after setting off an alarm. He was finally caught after stealing from donation boxes at the Bangladesh Hindu Mandir Temple in Flushing. A federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trump's latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor." It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by the president to be thwarted, in whole or in part, by the courts. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson issued the ruling after the ban on a set of mostly Muslim countries was challenged by the state of Hawaii, which warned that the restrictions would separate families and undermine the recruiting of diverse college students. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the ruling "dangerously flawed" and said it "undercuts the president's efforts to keep the American people safe." The Justice Department said it will quickly appeal. At issue was a ban, announced in September and set to go into effect early Wednesday, on travelers from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, along with some Venezuelan government officials and their families. The Trump administration said the ban was based on an assessment of each country's security situation and willingness to share information with the U.S. Watson, appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling against Trump's previous ban. The latest version "plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation," Watson wrote. The judge's ruling applies only to the six Muslim-majority countries on the list. It does not affect the restrictions against North Korea or Venezuela, because Hawaii did not ask for that. "This is the third time Hawaii has gone to court to stop President Trump from issuing a travel ban that discriminates against people based on their nation of origin or religion," Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said in a statement. "Today is another victory for the rule of law." Hawaii argued the updated ban was a continuation of Trump's campaign call for a ban on Muslims, despite the addition of two countries without a Muslim majority. Watson noted that Hawaii had argued Trump did not back down from that call, listing in the ruling a series of June tweets "in which (Trump) complained about how the Justice Department had submitted a 'watered down, politically correct version' to the Supreme Court." Other courts that weighed the travel ban have cited Trump's comments about banning Muslims, including the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Virginia and a federal judge in Maryland. Watson also referred to a Trump campaign statement in his previous ruling. His Tuesday ruling said the new ban, like its predecessor, fails to show that nationality alone makes a person a greater security risk to the U.S. "The categorical restrictions on entire populations of men, women and children, based upon nationality, are a poor fit for the issues regarding the sharing of 'public-safety and terrorism-related information' that the president identifies," Watson wrote. He said the ban is inconsistent in the way some countries are included or left out. For example, Iraq failed to meet the security benchmark but was omitted from the ban. Somalia met the information-sharing benchmark but was included. "Judge Watson's ruling makes clear that we are a nation of laws, no matter what this administration may try to do," Hawaii's U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said in a statement. "There is a place here for peaceful immigrants from every corner of the world: Spain, Syria, Sudan, or Singapore. There is no place here for discrimination or xenophobia." Watson found fault with what sorts of visitors are barred. For instance, all tourists and business travelers from Libya are excluded from the U.S., but student visitors were allowed. The judge said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order blocking the ban should be extended. It comes as other courts weigh challenges to the ban. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland are challenging the order in front of the same federal judge in Seattle who struck down Trump's initial ban in January. That ban aimed mostly at Muslim-majority countries led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Trump revised the ban, Hawaii challenged that version, too, and Watson agreed it discriminated on the basis of nationality and religion. A subsequent U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate restrictions against Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and against all refugees. Hawaii then successfully challenged the government's definition of which relatives of people already living in the U.S. would be allowed into the country, and Watson ordered the list expanded. The Mandalay Bay security guard who slipped out of the public spotlight in the aftermath of the Las Vegas shooting is not a missing person, police told Fox News on Tuesday, amid continuing questions about his whereabouts. Jesus Campos was scheduled for a series of television interviews last week, including one with Fox News' Sean Hannity, but the guard vanished in the hours beforehand, without telling his union president where he was heading. He is a victim in this and we dont discuss victims, Las Vegas Police Officer and Spokesman Larry Hadfield told Fox News on Tuesday. Hadfield said the department is not planning on holding any future press conferences, absent the development of new details. MGM Resorts International, the hotel's parent company, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal: Jesus Campos wants to tell his story at a time and place of his choosing. Hes asked that everyone respect his request for privacy. We could not be more proud of Jesus. The newspaper suggested that based on that statement, MGM seems to know Campos' whereabouts. David Hickey, president of the Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America union, which represents Campos, said on Monday it had been four days since he last saw Campos. We have had no contact with him... Clearly, somebody knows where he is," Hickey told the Los Angeles Times. The union leader on Friday told reporters he received a text Campos was visiting a walk-in health clinic in the Las Vegas metropolitan area. "For the past four days he's been preparing," Hickey told reporters Friday, FOX5 Las Vegas reported. "We had a meeting with MGM officials, and after that meeting was over, we talked about the interviews, we went to a private area, and when we came out, Mr. Campos was gone." But as of Tuesday, the clinic told Fox News it had no updates on a possible visit from him. On Monday, a spokeswoman said she had heard nothing about Campos stopping by. Clark County Sheriff Joseph Lombardo said Campos was investigating an alarm for a door that had been left ajar on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino when he was shot by gunman Stephen Paddock on Oct. 1. Campos then alerted hotel security about the ongoing scene, police said. However, a former guard who worked for the property in the early 2000s cast doubt on Lombardos statement Monday, telling the Los Angeles Times no such security system existed during his employment there. There was no alarm system for opened doors when I was there, he said, speaking on the condition of anonymity. You know how often people would have to call hotel guests if that was the case? One of Campos co-workers who spoke to the newspaper hopes Campos who she called humble and so charming -- emerges soon so he can be honored for his actions on the night of the shooting. He was always in the middle of what was going down, the co-worker said, who also spoke on condition of anonymity. On Sunday, a man who said he had been hired to guard Campos' house in northern Las Vegas told the Los Angeles Times he was there to prevent news media from snooping around on the property, but did not reveal who asked him to do the job. No media on property read one sign near the home. Neighbors around the single story building where Campos reportedly lived, with a pool in the backyard, said the Mandalay Bay guard mostly kept to himself. "He's a hero, Jaime Ruano told the Los Angeles Times, and nobody knows where he is. The Latest on a white former Oklahoma police officer on trial for a fourth time in the fatal shooting of his daughter's black boyfriend. (all times local): 3 p.m. Jurors in the trial of a white former Oklahoma police officer have heard a 911 call in which his daughter screams to dispatchers that her father had shot her 19-year-old black boyfriend. Lisa Kepler, the daughter of ex-Tulsa officer Shannon Kepler, testified Tuesday in her father's 2014 first-degree murder trial. Shannon Kepler is being tried for a fourth time after three previous juries deadlocked. Lisa Kepler testified that her father asked her boyfriend, Jeremey Lake, what he was doing while she and Lake were walking near a bridge. The Tulsa World reports that Lisa testified she walked away and had her back turned when she "heard gunshots." Shannon Kepler has said he shot Lake believing his daughter's boyfriend was armed, but no gun was found on or near Lake. ___ 11:50 a.m. The trial of a white former Oklahoma police officer charged with murder in the killing of his daughter's black boyfriend has resumed a day after a key witness said through tears he couldn't continue testifying. Proceedings in Shannon Kepler's fourth murder trial resumed Tuesday. He's charged with killing 19-year-old Jeremey Lake. Witness Josh Mills testified Monday that he ran to Lake after the shooting and that Lake's girlfriend said her father pulled the trigger. Mills later cursed defense attorney Richard O'Carroll when asked if Lake had tried earlier to borrow a gun. Mills began to cry and said he couldn't continue. The trial was recessed for the day. Kepler testified in a previous trial that he fired because he saw Lake with a gun, although no weapon was found. ___ This story has been corrected to show a witness testified Jeremy Lake's girlfriend said her father was the shooter. The Latest on a judge in Hawaii blocking the latest version of President Donald Trump's travel ban (all times local): 10:40 a.m. The White House is blasting a federal judge's decision to block the Trump administration from enforcing the latest version its travel ban, calling the order "dangerously flawed." White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders says the Hawaii decision "undercuts the president's efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States." In a separate statement, Justice Department spokesman Ian Prior says it will appeal the ruling "in an expeditious manner." The restrictions had been set to go into effect early Wednesday. They were to apply to citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. Sanders says the restrictions are "vital" to ensuring foreign nations comply with U.S. security standards. ___ 9:50 a.m. Hawaii's attorney general says the state is ready to defend against what he calls a discriminatory travel ban by the Trump administration. Douglas Chin is responding to a U.S. judge's ruling Tuesday that blocks the federal government from enforcing the policy. Chin has been challenging President Donald Trump's travel bans since February. The state says the updated ban is a continuation of Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States." He says it's the third time Hawaii has gone to court to stop Trump from enforcing a ban that discriminates against people based on their nation of origin or religion. The Trump administration's most recent restrictions affect citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. It was supposed to take effect early Wednesday. ___ 9 a.m. A judge in Hawaii has blocked the latest version of the Trump administration travel ban just hours before it was set to take effect. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson on Tuesday granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the federal government from enforcing the policy. It was supposed to take effect at midnight EDT Wednesday. The Trump administration's most recent restrictions, which affect citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. Hawaii argues the updated ban is a continuation of President Donald Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States." Other courts are weighing challenges to the policy. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions in the president's latest proclamation. A Marine was arrested after he attempted to carjack a double-decker tour bus full of tourists near the White House late Sunday, police said. Washington D.C. police told FOX 5 the suspect, identified as 24-year-old Tyler Jackson, has been charged with simple assault, unarmed carjacking, failure to obey and resisting arrest. Police said the incident happened around 8 p.m., when the bus was stopped and nearly 60 people were on the top deck observing the White House. Jackson screamed at the bus driver, ran onto the bus and began beating the driver, witnesses and the driver told FOX 5. The driver, who asked to remain anonymous, said Jackson yelled, "get out of here" and struck her multiple times in the face and head. She said she had no idea why Jackson attacked her. Some tourists from the top deck rushed down to help the diver, who was taken to the hospital, police said. Craig Ludwig, who captured Jackson's arrest on his cell phone, told FOX 5 none of the tourists on the bus saw the attack because everyone was on the top level taking pictures. "We heard the bus driver starting to yell that there was somebody attacking her, Ludwig said. The U.S. Secret Service arrived at the scene within minutes and arrested Jackson, who was later turned over to D.C. police. FOX 5 confirmed Jackson is a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps and is based at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia. Big Bus Washington D.C. told FOX 5 in a statement this was the first time one of their drivers has been attacked. "We can confirm that the unfortunate event did happen during our night tour on Sunday evening. As expected the driver remains in a state of shock, but fortunately in good condition. We are incredibly appreciative of the quick response by the authorities," the company said. "The safety of our team members and guests is incredibly important to us, our buses do include on-board cameras, and we will continue to work with the authorities as the investigation continues." Jackson is scheduled to be back in court on Nov. 13. A Michigan girl with a big, beautiful giving heart has sparked a grassroots effort raising thousands of dollars to make sure every student in her class regardless of their families financial standing has milk with their snacks during the school day. Sunshine Oelfke, of Ishpeming, emptied out her personal bank a few weeks ago in front of her grandmother and put the money in a bag to bring to school. I asked her what she was doing with the baggie of money, Jackie Oelfke wrote in a Facebook post. Her response put me in tears...I am going to give it to my friend at school because she dont get milk for snack. Her mom dont have any milk money and I do. Jackie, who CBS News reported watches over the 5-year-old girl since her mother has been in and out of prison with drug issues, then took the $30 in money to Sunshines teacher at Birchview Elementary School and explained her situation. We will do this, Jackie said the teacher, Rita Hausher, told her, and gave her a hug. Hausher later told Jackie she would make sure students who dont get milk will get it now on Sunshine's behalf. "I always tell my students when they do something that really amazes me, I get kindergarten goosebumps," Hausher told TV 6. "I got kindergarten goosebumps from my toes to the top of my head." Jackie set up a GoFundMe page, which has raised over $3,500 for the effort enough to cover the entire class for more than a semester. Dear Sunshine, I wanted to send you ten dollars to help you raise enough milk money for your entire class. What an amazing young girl you are, to have such a big, beautiful giving heart, Jackie said a note addressed to Sunshine read, and people are also sending the student cash in the mail. Jackie told CBS News that Sunshine who was saving up money to buy a snowmobile doesnt see her act as a big deal, but more as just trying to help out her friends. "She doesn't understand the impact she's made," Jackie told the station. "But now she knows she can do whatever she puts her mind to." Three MS-13 affiliates pleaded guilty Tuesday to their roles in the savage death of a teenage Virginia girl in what prosecutors say was a gangland-style revenge killing. As part of a deal with prosecutors, Cindy Blanco Hernandez, 19, Aldair J. Miranda Carcamo, 18, and Emerson Fugon Lopez, 17, pleaded guilty to a host of charges that included abduction and in two instances, gang participation. The three will be key witnesses in the trials of three other gang members charged with directly killing 15-year-old Damaris A. Reyes Rivas. The January killing of Reyes Rivas, which ultimately resulted in the arrest of 18 young people, galvanized the country and highlighted the brutal nature of one of the nations most violent and powerful street gangs. According to the prosecution, Reyes Rivas was taken to a Virginia park where she was stabbed with a knife and jabbed with a stick by a large group of MS-13 members. Her body was eventually discovered after it was dumped under a highway overpass on the outskirts of Washington D.C. FBI agent Fernando Uribe testified in July that Jose Cerrato, a 17-year-old alleged gang member, filmed and narrated the killing on a cellphone with the intention of sending the footage to MS-13 leaders in El Salvador. Its unclear if the video was ever sent to El Salvador, but Uribe testified that Cerrato was promoted in the gang for his role in the murder, the Washington Post reported. Reyes Rivas was allegedly killed as revenge for the death of 21-year-old Christian Sosa Rivas. Sosa Rivas was killed around New Years Eve after he was purportedly lured to a local park by Reyes Rivas. Some of the eight people charged in connection with his death are believed to have thought Sosa Rivas was a member of a rival gang who was claiming to be an MS-13 member, and the defendants purpose was gaining entrance to and maintaining and increasing position in MS-13 according to the Justice Department." Reyes Rivas killing was uncovered when investigators found the videos of her killing while looking into Sosa Rivas death. According to testimony by Uribe, 17-year-old Venus Romero Iraheta, an alleged MS-13 cohort and girlfriend of Sosa Rivas, blamed Reyes Rivas for luring Sosa Rivas to his death before stabbing her in the neck with a knife 13 times. Wilmer A. Sanchez Serrano, 21, another MS-13 affiliate, is accused of stabbing Reyes Rivas in the neck with a sharpened stick. MS-13, which has become a major focus of President Trumps Justice Department, was founded more than two decades ago in southern California by immigrants fleeing El Salvador's civil war. Its founders took lessons learned from the brutal conflict to the streets of Los Angeles, as they built a reputation as one of the most ruthless and sophisticated street gangs in the country. With as many as 10,000 members in 46 states, the gang has expanded beyond its initial and local roots and members have been convicted of crimes ranging from kidnapping and murder to drug smuggling and human trafficking, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Special Agent Jason Shatarsky told the Associated Press. The gang now has a large presence in southern California, Washington D.C. and many rural areas on the East Coast with substantial Salvadoran populations like the Carolinas. And in any community where the gang operates, its members often prey on their own people, targeting residents and business owners for extortion, among other crimes. More than 50 churches banded together to raise $1 million for victims of the hurricanes that ravaged Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico, the survivors of the shooting in Las Vegas and those in the path of the destructive wildfires sweeping through California. Pastor Mike Hayes, founder and president of Churches In Covenant International, a network of churches and ministries in the United States, started the relief fund, HelpChurches.org, in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. But Hayes kept it open after several natural disasters -- and one mass shooting -- continued to hit the nation in the recent months. I cant even believe what Im seeing its very sad, very sad, Hayes said from Santa Rose, Calif., where he was surveying the scorched landscape with other pastors. Weve got people on the street, still looking for missing people. Its tragic. Hayes said he met with more than 50 pastors Monday morning who had their churches, homes and communities affected by the wildfires, along with federal, state and local officials who have partnered with their ministry. The stories are unbelievable, and its just a war zone," he said. "Were all having to wear masks to be able to breathe, and we just met at a restaurant to hear their basic needs. Were doing all we can to help. Pastor Hayes described a story from one pastor, whose church had more than 30 families houses burn down. As the fire raged through the neighborhood, with winds gusting up to 25 mph, one woman, who was just two days away from giving birth to a child, escaped on a bicycle with her family. This is going to take years to rebuild, but right now this [money] is going to helping the most basic needs, Hayes said. There is an immediate need for face masks for people to breathe, refrigeration for food, very basic needs. Hayes said local and state officials were working with the pastors to get permits for a pop-up trailer park and other relief efforts. He initially challenged 100 church leaders to pledge $10,000 in an attempt to raise $1 million after Harvey hit Texas, but Hayes kept the fund open after other tragedies struck in quick succession throughout the country. I thought it was going to be open for Harvey relief, then closed, but Irma came into Florida, then Las Vegas happened, and I met with pastors there," he said. "Were counseling people there. Then the fires broke out. It feels like a disaster a week now, so were just going to move from one need to the next. The network of churches gets in touch with local pastors and the local church so they can meet the immediate needs in their church and community. Theres a lot of great organizations, but if we help the pastor get in his home, and he gets his church on its feet, then they can help the community rebuild, Hayes told Fox News. We meet with the local pastor, they do the distributing. With the fire their initial needs are totally different from a flood, like using a sifter to search for valuables in the rubble. Hayes started with his network of churches in Texas, but soon expanded nationwide. Said Hayes: I hope this doesnt become the new normal, but were going to keep it active as long as there is a need. The Internal Revenue Service is reportedly refusing to give back more than $59,000 to U.S. military veteran after it seized his gas stations cash during a raid that found no evidence of criminal activity. Oh Suk Kwon, 73, a South Korea immigrant who came to the U.S. back in the 1970s and served four years as a fleet mechanic in the U.S. army, bought a gas station in Maryland in 2007 following decades of work at an electrical plant as an auto mechanic. When I came to the United States, I had to do something for the country, he told the Washington Post. He later became a U.S. citizen. Following an honorable discharge, he continued pursuing the American dream, telling the paper: My whole life was work, work, work. But just several years after opening the gas station, IRS investigators seized all the stations cash more than $59,000 leaving the Kwon family cash-strapped, even though no evidence of criminal wrongdoing was found by the government, the paper reported. After the IRS investigation ended, the station went bankrupt, Kwons wife passed away, and the IRS changed its policy regarding seizures like this; but the agency is still refusing to hand back Kwon his money. His problems with the IRS started in 2011 when investigators showed up at his doorstep accusing him making money deposits in increments of less than $10,000 a practice known as structuring." Structuring is commonly used by terror groups in order to avoid scrutiny. The government requires banks to report all transactions larger than $10,000 under the 1970 Banking Secrecy Act. "They did it for money, and they destroyed a good and honest man. It is shameful." Attorney Edward Griffin Of all the cases I have worked on, this one stands out for me, Kwons attorney Edward Griffin told The Post. I firmly believe that the government did wrong in choosing to prosecute Mr. Kwon and seize his assets. There was no good policy purpose for the prosecution. They did it for money, and they destroyed a good and honest man. It is shameful. Which is why I am still fighting for him. A spokesman for the IRS said Kwon pleaded guilty to the structuring charge. Kwon said he merely followed the advice given by a local bank, which suggested making smaller deposits to avoid paperwork. He told the paper the guilty plea ruined his life. He said he also felt shame after the investigators spoke with his neighbors, forcing him later to move out of the neighborhood. They saw me as Korean. As a veteran, he told The Post. They were surprised to see me as a criminal. I will never forget that. It remains unclear whether he will get his money back. His attorney petitioned the IRS and Department of Justice this summer, but the request to hand back the money was not granted, citing lack of additional information. The Tennessee Historical Commission has rejected a request from Memphis officials to remove a 112-year-old bronze statue of Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest from a city park. After almost two hours of discussion, the 29 commission members voted down a measure that would have given Memphis a waiver to remove the statue. City officials plan to appeal the decision within 60 days. We demand that immediate action is taken. These statues can no longer stand and represent inaccurate history, Tamera Sawyer with Take Em Down 901, an activist group calling for the monuments removal, told the Commission during the meeting. CONFEDERATE MONUMENT REMOVAL COSTS PILING UP FOR CITIES While denying the citys request, the commission approved another proposal allowing the city to obtain a legal order that could bypass the commission. The former Confederate general was chosen to be the first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan in 1867, although he later renounced the group. Communities across the country have been grappling with whether to remove Confederate statues and symbols following a violent white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia that resulted in the death of counter-protester Heather Heyer. The August protest prompted a number of munipalities across the country to take down Confederate monuments. But Memphis has been trying to take down the Forrest statute for years to no avail. Memphis city council members voted to take it down in August 2015, according to the Memphis Appeal. A year later, state lawmakers tightened preservation rules and required any city that wants to take down or disturb a historical military figure obtain a waiver from the Tennessee Historic Commission. The commission then strengthened its powers to give itself the ability to deny a waiver. But Memphis is trying to fight those rules because it filed a waiver before the state law went into effect, so it believes it should be grandfathered in to the prior rules. The council is scheduled to vote Tuesday on a measure that would call for immediate removal, a move that, without state approval, would violate the law, City Attorney Bruce McMullen told the Commercial Appeal. WHICH CONFEDERATE STATUES WERE REMOVED? A RUNNING LIST The Commercial Appeal reports that Council chairman Berlin Boyd said the council will explore all options to remove the statue before MLK50 in 2018, the 50th anniversary of the death of Martin Luther King Jr. The civil rights icon was assassinated in Memphis on April 4, 1968, while he was planning a demonstration in Washington, D.C. Memphis is a different city than it was 100 years ago and I think some of what the statue tends to perpetuate is the notion of the old South rising again, former National Civil Rights Museum president Beverly Robertson said after the meeting. "So I dont think it paints a true picture of the Memphis that we are now. North Korea launched what it called a successful missile in August that flew over Japan and into the northern Pacific Ocean an apparent threat to Guam, according to its state run media. After the launch, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for even more weapons launches targeting the Pacific Ocean to advance his countrys ability to contain the U.S. territory of Guam, state media said. The launch seemed designed to show that North Korea can back up a threat to target Guam, if it chooses to do so, while also establishing a potentially dangerous precedent that could see future missiles flying over Japan. Guam, a U.S. territory in the western Pacific Ocean, is tiny but its strategic location is of great importance, especially to the U.S. military. Heres a rundown on the island and its significance. Location Roughly 2,100 miles south of North Korea, Guam is one of the U.S. territories closest to Asia. Guam, which is 210 square miles, is nearly 4,000 miles west of Hawaii. Its proximity to China, Japan, the Philippines and the Korean Peninsula has long made the island an essential position for the U.S. military. Military importance Reportedly called Americas permanent aircraft carrier by military commanders, Guam is home to some 7,000 U.S. service members. Its total population is more than 162,000, according to the latest census data. The U.S. keeps a Naval base and Coast Guard station in the south, and an Air Force base in the north that saw heavy use during the Vietnam War. While already taking up 30 percent of the island, the American military has been seeking to increase its presence by relocating thousands of Marines, who are currently based in Okinawa, Japan, to Guam. Former Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work said in 2014 that Guam increasingly has become a strategic hub for the U.S. military. Guam has always been a central part of our plans, Work said then. Certainly, a central part of the Navys plans, but now a central part of the entire Department of Defenses plans. Guam is also armed with the U.S. Armys missile defense system known as the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, or THAAD the same system recently installed in South Korea. While the 162,000 Guamanians on the island rely primarily on tourism, the U.S. military is also essential to the islands economy. Relationship with the U.S. Though Guam was initially claimed by Spain in 1565, it became a U.S. territory in 1898 during the Spanish-American War. Japan seized it for more than two years during World War II. But in 1950, an act of Congress made it an unincorporated organized territory of the United States. Guam has limited self-government, with a popularly elected governor, small legislature and a non-voting delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives. Residents do not pay U.S. income taxes or vote in the general election for president, but they are U.S. citizens by birth. Guams response Despite the growing concerns and threats, Guamanians feel reassured and protected by the military. "I feel that the presence of the military on Guam will help us a lot," said Virgie Matson, 51, a resident of Dededo, Guam's most populated village. "They are here to protect the islands, just in case something happens." A missile launched from North Korea would only take about 14 minutes to reach the island, Guam Homeland Security spokeswoman Jenna Gaminde told the Pacific Daily News. And if a missile would be fired, Guam residents would be notified immediately through alert sirens. In an interview with Fox News, Guam Gov. Eddie Calvo dismissed the continuing threats from North Korea, chalking them up to the nations position of fear. There is a defense umbrella contained within South Korea, there is a defense umbrella for Japan, there are naval assets between Korea, Japan and Guam, and there is a missile defense system of Guam that make up a multi-level defensive umbrella, Calvo said. Calvo thanked Trump for his support in a recent phone call and said "everyone should be unifying behind our president." "Mr. President, as the governor of Guam representing the people of Guam and as an American citizen, I have never felt more safe or as confident with you at the helm," Calvo said. "We need a president like you, so I'm just so thankful, and I'm glad you're holding the helm, sir." Trump responded that Guam shouldn't "have to worry about a thing." He also said tourism in Guam will "go up ten-fold." Guam Lt. Gov. Ray Tenorio called Kim Jong Un the demon in the rising tensions and said threats from North Korea arent uncommon. We know that multiple layers of defense that protect our island, along with the rest of our partners and our allies in the region, we have confidence in them, Tenorio told Fox Business. "An attack or threat to Guam is a threat or attack on the United States," Calvo, who has been in contact with White House officials said. "They have said that America will be defended." The Associated Press contributed to this report. A Californian woman has been arrested for allegedly stealing credit cards, checkbooks and other property from the Santa Rosa fire victims. Katie Lehnhard, 31, was detained by Petaluma police. A fire victim noticed fraudulent charges against her bank account and reported it to authorities, Petaluma Argus-Courier reported. A cancelled check provided by the victim reportedly led police to Lehnhard. She reportedly had an arrest warrant and was on probation. Police said that during the probation search, multiple identifications, credit cards, checkbooks and other property belonging to the fire victims and other Petaluma residents were found. Some of the belongings are believed to have been stolen from vehicles that were left to burn as the wildfires blazed neighborhoods in Northern California. Lehnhard was booked into Sonoma County Jail. The case is currently under investigation. Police are contacting victims to assess monetary losses, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Local police is advising all residents to be cautious and ensure their vehicles and other belongings are locked and safe. Armed with information from U.S. intelligence, Pakistani soldiers staged a dramatic but successful rescue operation last week to free American Caitlan Coleman, 31, and her Canadian husband Joshua Boyle, 34, and their three young children after five years in Haqqani network captivity. According to multiple U.S. sources with close connections to the operation, no prisoners were exchanged and ransom money was not paid. The Canadian government also asserted that their longstanding policy of not fulfilling ransom demands remains, and no money was dished out. Because of information obtained from drone footage, it is believed that the U.S. had long known of their location, as did Pakistans military arm ISI, and it was always a matter of someone pulling the trigger to go over and get them. A Pakistani official told the press Friday that the car carrying the family was tracked down soon after it crossed from Afghanistan into Pakistan, but sources say that the family long had been in the tribal areas of Pakistan. Anything inside Pakistan has to be done carefully, one source with knowledge of the operation told Fox News. There is still a deep trust issue between the U.S. and Pakistan. So why did the rescue happen now? Sources say the U.S. government started floating rumors some time ago within the Pakistani high military that a rescue operation was highly probable. It is believed that while the couple was moved around a few times in the early stages of their captivity, their location had remained static for some time and Joint Special Operations Command were getting ready to embark on a rescue, when ultimately the Pakistanis fearing another national upstaging and embarrassment akin to the bin Laden raid in 2011 which exposed them as harboring major terrorists took the reign. This was presented as an opportunity to clear up their bad name. Trump was about to cut off funding and the Pakistanis knew it, another source said. The mission came at a time when U.S.-Pakistan relations had hit a low point, with President Trump threatening to withdraw aid money and accusing the country of harboring militants. On Friday, nonetheless, Trump praised Pakistan for its cooperation of many fronts, and tweeted about how the two nations were developing a much better relationship. In a video message filmed shortly after her liberation, and posted by the Pakistani military, Boyle profusely thanked them for their tremendously professional operation. The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad also publicly expressed their deep gratitude to the Pakistani government and its army and subsequently Pakistans Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nafees Zakaria since has stated that the rescue demonstrates that Pakistan will act against a common enemy when the U.S. shares information. But Bill Roggio, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, pointed out that Pakistan has a long history of providing a sacrificial lamb to the U.S. during times when relations are at a low point. After Trumps speech that all but labeled Pakistan as a state sponsor of terrorism, Pakistan has been desperate to change the narrative. The operation to free Coleman, Boyle and their children gives Pakistani officials all the ammunition they need to claim they are partners with the U.S. against jihadists, he said. In the short-term, the Trump administration will be buoyed by the operation, but the real proof will be how the Pakistanis deal with Taliban leaders and fighters based inside Pakistan. However, the U.S. plan is said to have gone somewhat awry following the rescue, after Boyle refused to board a U.S. military aircraft flown out especially to collect the family with a military hostage team onboard. The C-130 was scheduled to stop at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, but Boyle reportedly freaked out, fearing detainee abuse at the hands of the U.S. The rescued family thus were then flown on a commercial airliner from Pakistan to London and then to Canada. But their refusal to use the military resources and travel to the United States, according to a source familiar with the operation, has broader implications as it also means that they essentially waive their reintegration rights. The goal was to ensure they were debriefed, information obtained and that they were carefully repatriated into society after all these years with the right psychological help, the insider explained. The U.S. has in place a three-phase reintegration process for rescued hostages, which involves medical exams, structured operational and intelligence debriefings from officials, and professional psychological help. But in refusing the U.S. help, the source says, it means that not returnees are not subject to providing highly sought-after intelligence pertaining to the inner-workings of the terrorist outfit. Several other Americans remain in Haqqani captivity in the region, and thus it now remains unclear if and when U.S. officials will be able to glean further intelligence on the status of fellow westerners from the newly released couple. The Department of Defense declined to comment on the reintegration issue, and the U.S. State Department and FBI did not immediately respond to a request for further comment. PAKISTAN OFFICIALS ADAMANT THAT 'HERO' DOCTOR WHO HELPED CAPTURE USAMA BIN LADEN REMAIN BEHIND BARS TALIBAN USING RAPE, BLACKMAIL TO RECRUIT YOUNG TERRORISTS Yet the in wake of his rescue and refusal to board the U.S military aircraft, Boyles background and connections, and the reasons why he lead his pregnant wife to a warzone in the first place also has become a source of speculation. Soon after marrying in 2011, Coleman and Boyle embarked on a hiking expedition, going first to Russia and Central Asia. Although pregnant with their first child, in 2012, the couple decided then to go hiking in Afghanistans dangerous, militia-teeming Wardak Province. Before Coleman, Boyle was married to Zaynab Khadr, the oldest sister of Omar Khadr, a Canadian alleged to have Al Qaeda ties. He was arrested by U.S. forces in 2002 and held at Guantanamo Bay for 10 years. Zaynabs late father Ahmed Said Khadr is believed to have been a prominent Al Qaeda financier who personally stayed with Osama bin Laden. But since his release, Boyle has stated that he was a pilgrim who was in Afghanistan initially to help villagers who live deep inside Taliban-controlled Afghanistan where no NGO, no aid worker and no government has ever successfully been able to bring the necessary help. The U.S. Department of Justice has said that neither Boyle or Coleman are wanted for any federal crime, and sources who worked closely on their release said that there was no reason to suspect them of any terrorist ties. Joshua may have thought he had a deeper understanding of these terror groups than he did, he may have thought that if anything bad happened he would have the ability to get them out of it, a U.S source explained. Sources located on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border also told Fox News that the family did become known to influential tribesman in the area, and the narrative floated was that they were Christian missionaries who were at first abducted by a criminal enterprise after meeting with Afghan villagers, and were then sold Haqqani. At first the demands for their release were financial, but likely emboldened by the release terms of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl in 2014, in which five Taliban prisoners were exchanged for the deserted U.S soldier, the terror outfit then switched tactics and instead insisted on the release of at least five prominent prisoners being detained by the Afghan government, sources in both the U.S. and Afghanistan said. Upon touching down in Toronto on Friday, Boyle claimed that they would have had four children born into captivity, but that their Haqqani captors killed one of their infant daughters and raped his wife during their five-year ordeal. The stupidity and evil of the Haqqani networks kidnapping of a pilgrim and his heavily pregnant wife engaged in helping ordinary villagers in Taliban-controlled regions of Afghanistan was eclipsed only by the stupidity and evil of authorizing the murder of my infant daughter, he said. The Taliban, which has become closely linked to the Haqqani operations in the past couple of years, since has denied both the allegations of assault and murder, insisting that Coleman naturally miscarried one of the four children. However, a U.S. source told Fox News that they received information several years ago that indicated Coleman was indeed the victim of sexual assault, and may have been forced to undergo an abortion. They went through hell, the source added. And there are still many more that need to come home. The Pakistani Embassy in Washington D.C. did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Mir Jalalzai in Afghanistan contributed to this report Two Serbian students have appeared before a court over the street protests last April against the election triumph of President Aleksandar Vucic. Pavle Terzic and Gavrilo Vucetic gave statements Tuesday at the misdemeanor court after police accused them of organizing a protest without notifying authorities. They have denied the charges. Dozens of people, including opposition politicians, have gathered outside the court in support of the students while alleging government intimidation. Vucic swept the vote in April winning the presidency in the first round of balloting. A former nationalist, Vucic has been accused of stifling democratic freedoms despite his pledge to lead Serbia toward European Union membership. Thousands of mostly young protesters participated in weeks-long street demonstrations responding to calls on social media against Vucic's election win. Air France is set to enlist pilots with special training to retrieve the A-380 that was forced to make an emergency landing in Canada last month after one of its engines blew out over the Atlantic Ocean. The retrieval will present major challenges, The Daily Mail reported. The damaged engine is likely to be removed and the plane will likely fly with only three engines, the report said. Flying a three-engine plane will require the pilots to fly under strict safety parameters for the 2,300 mile trip, the report said. Another challenge rescuers will face is the weather. The plane landed on a Canadian military base in Goose Bay, Newfoundland. The base is remote and the equipment needed may not be on site or would have to be brought in, further delaying the mission. The damaged engine will be shipped separately to its manufacturers in the U.K. where investigators will perform a forensic analysis to try and understand what went wrong. A Maltese investigative journalist, who filed a police report two weeks ago reporting threats, was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car, the prime minister said. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers. Caruana Galizia had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Malta's main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicle's wreckage spiraling over a wall and into a field, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. Her death resulted from a "barbaric attack" that also amounted to an assault on freedom of expression, Muscat said. He said the journalist "was one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level" as he denounced her slaying. "Shocking doesn't begin to describe this," journalist Mark Micallef wrote on Twitter. One of the topics she examined was the Maltese content in the Panama Papers leaked in 2016. She wrote that Muscat's wife, the country's energy minister and the government's chief-of-staff had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. Muscat and his wife, Michelle, denied they had companies in Panama. The slain journalist had written a twice-weekly column for The Malta Independent since 1996 and wrote a blog, "Running Commentary." A half hour before she was killed, she posted to her website an item about a libel claim the prime minister's chief of staff had brought against a former opposition over comments the latter made about corruption. Caruana Galizia herself had been sued for libel over blog entries. Opposition leader Adrian Delia sued her over stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London. Economy Minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote that he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. Monday evening's Parliament session was scrapped, except for briefings about the bombing given by Muscat and Delia, who called the reporter's slaying a "political murder." Muscat said he has asked the U.S. government and the FBI for help investigating the car bombing. Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband and three sons. One son, Matthew, was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal. The leak exposed the identities of rich and powerful people around the world who allegedly had offshore holdings in Panama. Caruana Galizia's family has asked the Courts of Malta to replace the magistrate assigned to conduct the inquiry into the journalist's death. The family said the magistrate, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, "in her personal capacity, had launched judicial procedures against (Caruana Galizia) regarding comments she had written." Caruana Galizia for many years was a harsh critic of Malta's Labor party and government. More recently she had expanded her criticism to include the opposition Nationalist Party. Her slaying drew swift denunciations in the tiny EU nation. "Daphne played a vitally important role in unearthing serious allegations of money laundering and corruption in Malta, including those involving senior figures in the Maltese government," said Sven Giegold, a Greens member in the European Parliament. Italian newsweekly L'Espresso, which has also written about alleged corruption linked to Malta, said the reporter's murder demonstrated that a well-documented expose' `'is perceived as a danger by the powerful and by organized crime." European Parliament President Antonio Tajani in a tweet called the development a "tragic example of a journalist who sacrificed her life to search for the truth." The Associated Press contributed to this report American Caitlan Coleman, her Canadian husband Joshua Boyle and their three children were all released last week in Pakistan, after spending five years held by the militant Haqqani network, which has ties to the Taliban. President Trump said in a statement last week that the U.S. and Pakistani governments worked together and "secured the release of the Boyle-Coleman family from captivity in Pakistan." "Today they are free," Trump said of the family, calling it "a positive moment for our country's relationship with Pakistan." Boyle told the AP in an email that Coleman was admitted to a Canadian hospital on Monday and remained there through Wednesday. He did not specify why she was taken to the hospital. "My wife has been through hell, and she has to be my first priority right now," Boyle wrote. What do we know about Caitlan Coleman and her family? The 32-year-old is a native of York County, Pa., Philly.com reported. Coleman and her husband were abducted in 2012 while traveling in Afghanistan. Coleman was pregnant at the time, and their children were born in captivity. Boyle told the AP that their children are now 4, 2 and "somewhere around 6 months." After landing at Toronto's airport, Boyle said that the Taliban-linked Haqqani network killed their infant daughter and raped his wife during the years they were held. In an email exchange with the AP, Boyle did not respond to a question about the fourth child. The Taliban said in a statement on Sunday that it was a miscarriage. Boyle, a former call center worker, said in an earlier statement that he had gone to Afghanistan with Coleman to help villagers "who live deep inside Taliban-controlled Afghanistan where no NGO, no aid worker and no government has ever successfully been able to bring the necessary help." He was once briefly married to Zaynab Khadr, the older sister of former Guantanamo Bay detainee Omar Khadr and the daughter of a senior Al Qaeda financier who had contacts with Usama bin Laden. Coleman and Boyle were most recently seen in video from December 2016. Please dont become the next Jimmy Carter, Coleman said to then-President Barack Obama in the clip while reading a statement. Just give the offenders something so they and you can save face so we can leave the region permanently. "My children have seen their mother defiled," Coleman said in the clip. AMERICAN CAITLAN COLEMAN, FAMILY FREED FROM AFGHANISTANT CAPTORS What has the reaction to the family's release been? "It's a great day. They've been held a long time," FBI Director Christopher Wray said, according to NBC. "I applaud the innumerable lines of effort from across the U.S. Government," Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said in a statement. Tillerson said he is "particularly proud of" U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale, along with "his Mission Islamabad team for their engagement with Pakistan. These efforts reflect the best of what America can accomplish." Canada's foreign minister, Chrystia Freeland, said in a statement that her government is greatly relieved to learn that after five years of being held hostage, the family has been released and is safe. She said that Canada has been engaged with the governments of the United States, Afghanistan and Pakistan. She thanked those countries for helping with the release. "Joshua, Caitlan, their children and the Boyle and Coleman families have endured a horrible ordeal over the past five years. We stand ready to support them as they begin their healing journey," she said. The operation took place as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with President Trump in Washington. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A Canadian man who was held hostage with his family in Afghanistan for five years, opened up about life after captivity and revealed he was surprised to learn Donald Trump was the president of the United States. Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman and their three children were rescued Wednesday, five years after the couple was abducted by the Taliban-linked Haqqani network, on a backpacking trip in Afghanistan. After being shut out from the world by the terrorists, Boyle told the Toronto Star he was surprised to learn from his captors that Trump was elected president. Boyle said he learned of Trump's election before filming a "proof-of-life" video. It didnt enter my mind that [his captor] was being serious, Boyle told the Toronto Star. Boyle explained to The Associated Press in an email interview why he and wife had their children while being held hostage. "We're sitting as hostages with a lot of time on our hands," Boyle told The Associated Press in an email Monday. "We always wanted as many as possible, and we didn't want to waste time. Cait's in her 30s, the clock is ticking." "Hey, let's make the best of this and at least go home with a larger start on our dream family, Boyle said. Boyle said the kids are now 4, 2 and "somewhere around 6 months." HAQQANI CAPTORS KILLED CHILD, RAPED WIFE, CANADIAN EX-HOSTAGE SAYS "Honestly we've always planned to have a family of 5, 10, 12 children ... We're Irish, haha," he wrote. Coleman was pregnant at the time of their abduction and had the children while she was held hostage. Boyle said after landing at Torontos airport Friday that the Haqqani network killed their infant daughter and raped his wife during the years they were held. The Taliban claimed in a statement Sunday that it was a miscarriage. Boyle, who returned to his parents home in Smiths Falls, Ontario, called the residence the first true home that his children have ever known. Boyle told the Toronto Star that his son Jonah, 4, was so excited to be in a new place with toys that it took him hours to fall asleep. Last night he (Jonah) wouldnt close his eyes because he was so excited and he just wanted to sit on his pile of toys with a gigantic smile on his face, Boyle said. It took him about three hours to fall asleep, and it wasnt three hours of panic. It was three hours where he just wanted to really, really cherish this gigantic rabbit and these plastic Lego blocks and these toys, and he wanted to sit there and bask in being no bandi (hostages) after all of this time. Boyle said his middle child, Noah, was having a hard time adjusting to his new freedom. [Noahs] not having a temper tantrum; its that he saw the color of orange and orange scares him, or that he saw a screwdriver and screwdrivers scare him. Boots scare him, Boyle said. BEHIND THE DRAMATIC RESCUE OF AMERICAN-CANADIAN COUPLE FROM HAQQANI CAPTIVITY When police came to the house on Saturday, Boyle said his son became upset because the officers wore boots. Hes not scared of [police officers,] specifically. Hes scared of the boots, Boyle said. Because the only people he has seen wear boots are people who are coming in to kick you. Boyles wife, Coleman, has remained silent since being freed. Boyle said in an earlier statement that he had gone to Afghanistan with his pregnant wife to help villagers "who live deep inside Taliban-controlled Afghanistan where no NGO, no aid worker and no government has ever successfully been able to bring the necessary help." Boyle was once briefly married to Zaynab Khadr, the older sister of former Guantanamo Bay detainee Omar Khadr and the daughter of a senior al-Qaida financier who had contacts with Usama bin Laden. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Catalonian separatists won a razor-thin majority on Thursday, with the three separatist parties winning a total of 70 seats in the 135-seat regional parliament. But the snap regional election failed to clarify the way forward, as parties seeking Catalonia's independence will be a majority in the new parliament but a pro-union party got the most votes. Still, ousted Catalan President Carles Puigdemont celebrated the results from Belgium on Thursday -- the same country he sought refuge in after Spain issued European arrest warrants for him and other separatists in November. Puigdemont also said that he's ready to meet with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy in any location but Spain, because that's where he's facing arrest. In addition, Puigdemont also said he wants guarantees to return to Catalonia and be reinstated as the region's leader. In response, Rajoy said he expects a "new era based on dialogue" will begin in Catalonia following the snap election, adding that he will talk with the region's new leaders as long as they don't violate Spain's Constitution. The election comes after the Spanish government took control of Catalonia when separatist lawmakers, led by Puigdemont, declared independence in October. Spain invoked its never-before used constitutional amendment to take control of the region, giving it the ability to sack Puigdemont and his cabinet as well as authorize the government to curtail the regions parliamentary powers. Spain's Constitutional Court officially annulled the Catalan parliaments independence vote in November. European neighbors including Italy, France and Germany have condemned the independence declaration and rallied behind Spain. In light of the election, here's what you need to know. What is Catalonia? Located in the northeast region of Spain, Catalonia is largely independent with its own culture and language. Its one of the richest and most industrialized areas of the country with a heavy emphasis on manufacturing, according to the BBC. The region, which includes Barcelona, is home to about 7.5 million people. Valuing its autonomy, Catalonia has its own parliament and executive, called Generalitat in its language. Why do they want independence? Because of its own cultural identity, those in favor of Catalan independence have pushed for the region to become separate from Spain. Supporters also believe that they have given more to the Spanish government than they have gotten back. The push for independence raises questions of the future of democracy and democratic rule, Pamela Radcliff, a University of California, San Diego professor and modern Spain historian, told Fox News. Whats being contested between Spain and Catalonia, one of the things is different visions of what defending democracy looks like. SOME SEPARATIST-MINDED CATALANS URGE CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE Radcliff said that its very possible that neither side has much incentive to compromise. The region held a referendum on Oct. 1. Tens of thousands of people gathered in the streets of Barcelona around the Catalan regional government palace to celebrate the independence vote. They chanted for the Spanish flag to be removed as live music played. The regions parliament voted to establish an independent Catalonia with 70 votes in favor of independence, 10 votes against and two blank ballots. Opposition leaders had left the chambers in protest before the vote. How did the Oct. 1 vote go? Catalonias parliament voted for independence after an Oct. 1 referendum with about 90 percent of the 2.3 million people who voted choosing independence, according to Catalan officials. However, fewer than half of the eligible voters participated in the highly contested referendum. About 900 people were treated for injuries after voting turned violent when Catalan civilians and Spanish police clashed. Andrew Dowling, an expert in Catalan history at Cardiff University in Wales, said that an independence declaration by the Catalan parliament is symbolic without border and institutional control and no international support. PRO-INDEPENDENCE CATALANS: 'I'VE NEVER FELT SPANISH' The declaration "will see the fracture between hardliners and the pragmatic people in Catalonia who are already seeing an economic fallout," Dowling told The Associated Press. But Spains Constitutional Court officially annulled the Catalan independence vote on Nov. 8. What has been Spains response? Spain's top court declared the Oct. 1 independence referendum illegal, and Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy had warned that the governments first move will be to remove Puigdemont from power when the Senate granted him the special powers under Article 155. Rajoy said what is happening in Catalonia is a clear violation of the laws, of democracy, of the rights of all, and that has consequences. Hundreds of thousands of anti-independence protesters demonstrated in the streets of Barcelona and called for the Catalonia region to remain a part of Spain. Rajoy reportedly refused help from outside civil-society groups and lawyers to mediate negotiations between the two factions. He has also declined to engage in talks with Catalan leaders. There is no possible mediation between democratic law and disobedience and unlawfulness, Rajoy said. What is Article 155? Spain invoked a clause of its constitution after Catalonia forged ahead with its plans to secede from the country that would take away the regions autonomy. Catalonia's refusal to backtrack from its independence threats triggered Article 155 of the Spanish Constitution, the government said, which allows central authorities to take over control of any of the countrys 17 regions. Its a provision that hasnt been used in the four decades since democracy was restored in the European nation. OUSTED CATALAN LEADER SAYS HE IS NOT SEEKING POLITICAL ASYLUM, SUPPORTS SNAP ELECTION An English translation of the constitution states that if an autonomous community breaks the law or disregards the constitution, the Spanish government can after following certain procedures take the measures necessary in order to compel the [community] forcibly to meet said obligations, or in order to protect [Spains] general interests. Rajoy's cabinet met in a special meeting to approve measures to take direct control of the Catalan region under Article 155. The Senate gave him the power to do so. The Associated Press contributed to this report. In the span of nine months, ISIS has gone back to being the "JV team." The Islamic State, a day after being ousted from its defacto capital of Raqqa, is losing its foothold in the two nations where it established its bloody roots and grew from former President Barack Obama's infamous "JV team" into an unrelenting exporter of global terror. Once the owner -- or captor -- of a swath of land in Syria and Iraq, the militant group has lost control of its two key cities -- and at least half of the original territory it once brazenly roamed. Now, ISIS is reportedly regrouping and recruiting in other chaos-torn nations as its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, resurfaces in cryptic audio messages, urging soldiers of Islam and caliphate supporters to remain focused on their victory. ISIS was dealt a massive blow Tuesday when most of Raqqa was liberated from the militant fighters' hold by U.S.-backed Syrian troops. A U.S. military spokesperson told Fox News the city, once considered the capital of the terrorists' so-called caliphate, has been 90 percent recaptured, with fighting remaining only in a few select pockets where hardline militants have holed up. Its unclear how -- or if -- Baghdadi plans to maintain or recapture ISIS' lost territory in Syria and Iraq. The leaders establishment of a caliphate after seizing control of Mosul in 2014 signaled the group plan to branch into other countries. ISIS is reportedly operational in 18 countries, including Afghanistan, Pakistan and Libya, the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center said in an August 2016 report. It also has aspiring branches in Bangladesh, Indonesia and the Philippines. More fighters are expected to flow to Libya after the recent losses in Syria and Iraq. One U.S. official affiliated with the GNA, who requested anonymity, told Fox News in July the political and security vacuum that existed in Libya after longtime leader Muammar Qaddafis death in 2011 allowed ISIS to take root. ISIS still poses a threat not just to Libya, the U.S official added. But to its neighbors, Europe and the United States. Libya has been marred by conflict after 2011. The country also has Africas largest reserves. Its oil fields and reserves are located south of Sirte. ISIS still poses a threat not just to Libya...But to its neighbors, Europe and the United States. U.S. official Joseph Fallon, Islamic Extremism expert and U.K. Defense Forum research associate, also told Fox News ISIS has retreated south of Sirte to regroup and that its global threat cannot be underestimated. But the group's first success was in the taking of Raqqa. The terror group seized the city on the banks of Euphrates River from Syrian rebels in January 2014. It was the first Syrian city to fall under the groups control and helped to establish its power as ISIS began a reign of terror that included beheading, shooting, burning and drowning its opponents and hatching plots to export its brand of terror globally. By June 2014, Iraqs second-largest city, Mosul, also fell under ISIS control. The militants pushed Iraqi forces out and captured Tikrit, former Iraqi Dictator Saddam Husseins hometown, shortly after. But after more than three years, ISIS lost control of the Iraqi city in July when a massive operation undertaken by U.S.-backed Iraqi forces squeezed the terrorists out. The city was declared "liberated" from ISIS' grip, but the destruction, after three years of brutal and bloody control, had a more lasting effect. ISIS days in Iraq and Syria appear numbered. At its peak, ISIS held territory in which 10 million people lived. On Tuesday, its presence in Iraq was down to a sliver of land along the Euphrates river valley bordering Syria, the BBC reported through information released by the HIS Conflict Monitor. The group still holds about 81 miles of the Euphrates River Valley inside eastern central Syria. The war on ISIS has already shifted to the Deir el-Zour province that holds much of Syrias oil and gas resources which has been a key component of ISIS success in maintaining power and funding its barbaric reign. Despite losing significant territory, Baghdadi reportedly surfaced to address supporters in a 46-minute audio recording in September. Its unclear when the message was recorded, but that it purported to be from Baghdadi seemed to quash rumors the ISIS leader had been killed. For the majority of the speech, Baghdadi attempted to appeal to ISIS supporters worldwide, according to an analysis Fox News obtained from MEMRI Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor. The global message may have been a nod to ISIS' dwindling territory in Syria and Iraq. "Oh soldiers of Islam and caliphate supporters everywhere, intensify the successive attacks, and include the unbelievers' media headquarters and the ideological war centers among [your] targets," a voice believed to be Baghdadi said. Fox News Hollie McKay and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Israel says it will not negotiate with an emerging Palestinian government if the Hamas militant group plays any role in it. Tuesday's announcement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office added a new twist to an already complicated reconciliation process between rival Palestinian groups. Under Egyptian auspices, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah and the rival Hamas this month reached a preliminary reconciliation agreement after a decade-long split. The sides have been holding talks in Cairo to finalize the deal. Netanyahu's office said it won't hold peace talks with a government that "leans" on Hamas, an Islamic militant group that seeks Israel's destruction. It said Hamas must recognize Israel and disarm, along with other conditions, or Israel will not negotiate. The last round of peace talks collapsed in 2014. A mayor from Italy's populist 5-Star Movement says she is under investigation over a debt that wasn't properly noted in the city's budget. Turin Mayor Chiara Appendino told reporters on Tuesday that she cleared up the matter during a three-hour-long "chat" with prosecutors at the northern city's courthouse. The 5-Star Movement is hoping a top-notch performance by its mayors in Turin and Rome will impress Italians when it comes time to vote in national elections next year when the populist force hopes to gain its first premiership. Italian news reports say prosecutors are investigating the improper listing of a 5 million euro ($5.8 million) debt in the city budget. Appendino says she went to prosecutors on her own initiative to explain, adding "I have nothing to hide." next Image 1 of 2 prev Image 2 of 2 The Latest on deadly explosion in Somalia's capital (all times local): 4:20 p.m. Kenya's foreign affairs minister says the country will airlift 31 people wounded in Somalia's deadliest attack for specialized treatment. Amina Mohamed also says Kenya is dispatching 11 tons of medicine to help Somali hospitals that have been overwhelmed by the nearly 400 people injured in Saturday's truck bombing in Mogadishu. More than 300 people were killed. Somalia's government has blamed the attack on the al-Shabab extremist group, which has not commented. ___ 2 p.m. A United States military plane has landed in Somalia's capital with medical and humanitarian aid supplies after Saturday's massive truck bombing killed more than 300 people. A spokesman for the U.S. African Command tells The Associated Press that the charge d'affaires with the U.S. Mission to Somalia "declared that this disaster meets the criteria to warrant immediate U.S. government assistance" because of the widespread damage. Another nearly 400 people were injured in the deadliest attack in Somalia's history and one of the world's worst attacks in years. Funerals have begun and dozens of critically injured have been airlifted to Turkey for treatment. Somalia's government has blamed the attack on the al-Shabab extremist group, which has not commented. The car bombing of Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia sent shock waves throughout the small Mediterranean nation Monday, as officials tried to figure who may be responsible for her murder. But coming up with an enemies list is a difficult proposition for a dogged reporter who spent a career accumulating powerful enemies. The highly regarded journalist was known for going toe-to-toe with some of the countrys most popular political figures on accusations of corruption. The 53-year-old Caruana Galiza was killed in a car bomb Monday, reportedly about 30 minutes after posting a damning report about Prime Minister Joseph Muscats chief of staff, Keith Schembri, who was testifying in a libel case. There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate, she wrote in her blog Running Commentary. Caruana Galizias in-depth reporting made her many enemies. Politico described her as a one-woman Wikileaks and her blog sometimes achieved greater readership than all newspapers in Malta combined. Over the past year, the journalist focused on the alleged corruption of Muscats administration in connection to the Panama Papers, the huge cache of leaked documents from the leading offshore law firm Mossack Fonseca. According to Caruana Galizias investigation into the Panama Papers, Muscats wife Michelle, Schembri and the countrys minister of tourism had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. While Muscat and his wife denied having companies in the Central American country, the allegations effectively triggered a premature general election last June. Still, Muscat called the journalists death a barbaric attack and an assault of freedom of expression. Everyone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way, said the prime minister, who sued the journalist and won a snap election in June, which was called as a vote of confidence to counter Caruana Galizia's allegations. Last year, Politico EU called her a "one-woman WikiLeaks, crusading against untransparency and corruption in Malta." While Caruana Galizias mainly targeted the ruling Labor party and its supporters, she also recently shifted her eye onto the countrys opposition leader, Adrian Delia. During the past six months, Caruana Galizia relentlessly attacked Delia both politically and personally accusing him of corruption. Delia called Caruana Galizias death a political murder. What happened today is not an ordinary killing. It is a consequence of the total collapse of the rule of law which has been going on for the past four years, he said. In addition to alleged corrupt politicians, Caruana Galizias targets ranged from banks facilitating money laundering and those linking Maltas online gaming industry with the mafia. Malta's public life is afflicted with dangerously unstable men with no principles or scruples, she wrote in another post last year. John Dalli, a former European commissioner whom she helped bring down in a tobacco lobbying scandal, called the journalist a terrorist, Politico EU reported. Caruana Galizia's unrelenting blog resulted in several legal battles including one in 2010 by Magistrate Consuela Scerri Herrera, who abstained from taking over Caruana Galizias murder investigation at the request of her family on Tuesday. Delia sued her over stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London. Economy Minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. "Allowing Daphne Caruana Galizia to be so cruelly murdered was a failure of the State, of its government and of its institutions." Louis Galea, former home affairs minister in Malta Former home affairs minister Louis Galea said the journalist was a classic case of a person who required State protection. Allowing Daphne Caruana Galizia to be so cruelly murdered was a failure of the State, of its government and of its institutions, he wrote, according to the Times of Malta. The murder of one of Maltas most important, visible, fearless journalist confirms why it is essential and urgent to ensure that our institutions can really be professional and completely independently and impartial in the carrying out of their duties. Dutch forensic experts are due to arrive in Bidnija on Tuesday to launch an investigation, and the FBI has been asked to assist. Around 3,000 people held a silent, candle-lit vigil on Monday night in Sliema, just outside the capital Valletta. In a scathing Facebook post, Cariana Galizias son, Matthew, said his mothers killing was no ordinary murder and it was not tragic. Tragic is someone being run over by a bus, he wrote. When there is blood and fire around you, thats war. We are a people at war against the state and organized crime, which have become indistinguishable. He added: Yes, this is where we are: a mafia state where you will be blown to pieces for exercising your basic freedoms, only for the people who are supposed to have protected you to instead be celebrating it. Matthew was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Israel's leader is warning Iran that he will not tolerate an Iranian military presence in Syria. Benjamin Netanyahu says his meeting with visiting Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu on Tuesday focused mostly on Iran's efforts to establish a presence next door. Netanyahu says that "Iran has to understand that Israel will not allow this." The meeting comes a day after Israel destroyed a Russian-made, anti-aircraft missile launcher that took aim at its planes. Israel has largely stayed out of the fighting in Syria but has carried out dozens of airstrikes on alleged weapons convoys bound for Lebanese militant Hezbollah group. It is also concerned arch-enemy Iran will plant itself on Israel's doorstep. Israel and Russia have established a special mechanism to prevent friction between their air forces in Syria. The United States isnt the only country in the world struggling to combat the devastating effects of opioid addiction. While opioid use both in the form of prescription painkillers and heroin has not reached the crisis level it has in the U.S., health officials in the United Kingdom have seen a drastic uptick in drug abuse over the last decade and are warning that, without a greater investment in education and public health services, Great Britain could face a similar situation to the U.S. sometime in the near future. While some of the increase can be attributed to an improved understanding of the effectiveness of these medications by medical professionals, we are concerned by reports of unnecessary prescription, Barry Miller, the dean of the Faculty of Pain Medicine at the Royal College of Anesthetists, told the Guardian. The National Health Service (NHS) released figures earlier this month showing that the number of opioid prescriptions in the U.K. has doubled over the last 10 years from 12 million issued in 2006 to 24 million in 2016. Abuse of prescription opioids, like oxycodone, is considered to be the main culprit in the spike of U.S. drug users over the last decade who are addicted to heroin. Our greater understanding of these medications can improve the quality of life for tens of thousands of patients in the U.K. living with complex pain, Miller said. However, all NHS staff prescribing these medications need to ensure they are not doing more harm than good, Health officials in the U.K. are looking at the U.S. with a wary eye as they see the problem developing along similar lines across the Atlantic with patients getting addicted to prescription painkillers before moving on to harder substances like heroin or fentanyl. The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction reported that the U.K. accounted for 31 percent of Europes 8,441 overdose deaths in 2015 still a far cry from the 33,091 the U.S. recorded that year and eight in every 1,000 Britons are considered high-risk opioid users. We are in the midst of a great public health disaster, which is killing hundreds of people a year and ruining the lives of millions, Harry Shapiro, head of addiction charity DrugWise, said last year, according to New Scientist. Despite the rise in both opioid use and overdose deaths, experts and officials across the pond say that the problem in the U.K. is a far cry from what is going on in the U.S., where President Trump is expected next week to formally declare the opioid crisis a national emergency. Oversight from the U.K.s NHS makes it much harder for a doctor to excessively prescribe any psychoactive substance and for patients in the U.K. to move among prescribers compared to the U.S. Only 1 percent of prescriptions in the U.K. are private. The overwhelming majority of prescriptions for opiates and other psychoactive drugs, such as pregabalin, are on the NHS, Cathy Stannard, a consultant in complex pain and the Pain Transformation Programme clinical lead at NHS Gloucestershire, told Prescriber magazine. A practices or trusts prescribing data soon shows if one doctor prescribes excessive amounts and the prescribing adviser will investigate. Stannard added: The oversight of opioid prescribing in the U.K. is quite tight. Still, experts warn, to prevent the issue from getting any worse in the U.K., there needs to be a major investment in monitoring, services and awareness. Raising awareness, including among healthcare professionals, such as the prescribers who write the prescriptions and pharmacy staff who dispense the medicines, should be a priority, Roz Gittins, the chief pharmacist at Addaction, a drug and alcohol treatment charity, said. There simply is not enough information, advice and support for those addicted to prescribed or [over the counter] medications. The Syrian city of Raqqa was liberated from ISIS fighters Tuesday, a commander with U.S.-backed Syrian forces said, announcing the "fall of the capital of terrorism." Brig. Gen. Talal Sillo told The Associated Press on Tuesday there were no longer clashes going on in the city, and that a formal declaration would follow. Despite Sillo's announcement, a U.S. military spokesperson told Fox News the ISIS stronghold has been 90 percent recaptured and some fighting remains. "There are still areas that have not been cleared," Army Col. Ryan Dillon told Fox News in an interviewfrom Baghdad. The loss deprived the terror group of the capital of its so-called caliphate, which has dwindled from a land mass spanning two countries to a sliver of space in Syria. The last group of Islamic State militants had been holed up Tuesday in a stadium in the Syrian city of Raqqa, their last stand as U.S. backed, Kurdish-led forces closed in around them. Coalition forces captured the city hospital earlier in the day, which doubled as an ISIS command center. Musafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, told the AP around 22 ISIS militants were killed in the advance on the hospital. The remaining soldiers of terror were cornered in an area around the city's municipal stadium, which they had turned into a huge prison where they incarcerated anyone who opposed their brutal rule. The Kurdish-run Hawar news agency said with the capture of the hospital, the last black ISIS flag raised in the city had been taken down. A video released by the news agency illustrated the clashes around the hospital building, which appeared riddled with bullets and partly blackened from a fire. The U.S.-led coalition said it had not carried out any airstrikes in or around Raqqa for 24 hours, starting from noon Sunday. The battle for Raqqa began in June and has dragged for weeks as the SDF fighters faced stiff resistance from the militants. Losing Raqqa has been a huge blow for ISIS, which has steadily lost territory in Iraq and Syria, including Iraq's second largest city of Mosul a few months ago. The group declared the city on the banks of the Euphrates River, which it seized from other Syrian rebels in early 2014, to be the capital of its self-styled "caliphate," transforming the once vibrant metropolis into the epicenter of its brutal rule where opponents were beheaded and terror plots were hatched. Fox News' Lucas Tomlonson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. The gridlock between Catalonia and Spains central government continues as tense as ever after the countrys top court officially ruled the highly disputed independence referendum was illegal. Spains Constitution Court said Tuesday the regional law that backed the referendum goes against national sovereignty and the indissoluble unity of the Spanish nation. The court added that the Catalan regional parliamentary session in early September that approved the self-determination referendum law also violated the countrys constitution. Tuesdays ruling was not surprising it had earlier suspended the law temporarily while judges assessed the Spanish governments objection to it. Despite this, Catalan regional leaders went ahead with the Oct. 1 referendum on whether the region should separate from Spain. They say the Yes side won and that the result gave the region a mandate to declare independence. "We are facing an executive power in the state that uses the judiciary branch to block the legislative," Catalan government spokesman Jordi Turull told reporters shortly after the courts ruling was announced. Catalan President Carles Puigdemont made an ambiguous statement about the region's future last week, saying he has the mandate to declare independence but would not immediately move to implement it to allow time for talks and mediation. Puigdemont now has until Thursday to backtrack on any steps the region has taken toward secession. If he refuses, the central government has said it would invoke constitutional authority to restrict or revoke the areas of self-governance Catalonia has now. Turull said Catalonia wouldn't "surrender" in its secession bid and renewed a call for talks with central authorities on what he called "a democratic mandate" to break away from Spain. Spain has said that no dialogue can take place with independence on the table because a reform of the country's Constitution with an ample majority in the national parliament is the only legal way to achieve secession by a region. Spain is backed by the international community, which has said Catalonia must act with respect for Spain's laws. Catalonia, meanwhile, is battling to win external support and is trying to paint an image of Spain as an undemocratic and repressive state. Speaking Friday, Catalonia's International affairs director, Raul Romeva, said Spain "doesn*t have a problem in Catalonia. Spain has a problem with democracy, one that affects citizens in Europe as well." Tuesday's ruling came a day after a Madrid judge provisionally jailed two Catalan independence leaders, Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart, in a sedition probe. The judge ruled they were the orchestrators of massive demonstrations Sept. 20-21 in Barcelona that hindered a police operation against preparations for the Oct. 1 independence referendum. Turull said the jailing showed how central authorities are choosing "repression over dialogue." Protesters were gathering for a new round of demonstrations in Barcelona on Tuesday to demand their release. About 500 students left classrooms in one of Barcelona's main universities to join the demonstrations. "We urge the release of our political prisoners and call on Catalan authorities to revoke the suspension of the independence declaration and proclaim the Catalan republic," said Aina Delgado Morell, a representative of Universitats per la Republica, a pro-independence student organization. Students would keep protests going to "stop the repression by the Spanish state," she added. Spanish Justice Minister Rafael Catala said the jailing was due to the fact that two are suspected of having committed a crime of hampering a judge's orders. He rejected the term "political prisoners," saying instead it could be considered a case of "politicians in prison." The Associated Press contributed to this report. At least 71 people were killed in Afghanistan on Tuesday in a series of attacks orchestrated by the Taliban, the country's deputy interior minister said. The official, Murad Ali Murad, told a press conference in Kabul the attacks in Ghazni and Paktia province were the "biggest terrorist attack this year." Murad said in one of the attacks, in southern Paktia province, 41 people -- 21 policemen and 20 civilians -- were killed when the Taliban targeted a police compound in the provincial capital of Gardez with two suicide car bombs. Scores were also wounded -- at least 48 policemen and 110 civilians. The provincial police chief was among those killed in the Paktia attack. Hamza Aqmhal, a student at the Paktia University, told The Associated Press he heard a very powerful blast which shattered glass and broke all the windows at the building he was in. He said the university is about 2 kilometers from the training academy. In the attack in Andar district in Ghazni province, 25 policemen were killed and also five civilians. At least 15 people were wounded, including 10 policemen, according to Murad. Despite the staggering numbers, Murad said Afghan forces are confident in their "readiness to fight terrorists and eliminate them from Afghanistan. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attacks The Associated Press contributed to this report. A bomb exploded as a bus carrying police was passing by in a southern Turkish city on Tuesday, wounding a dozen officers, officials said. The blast occurred on a main road in the Mediterranean coastal city of Mersin, the state-run Anadolu Agency reported. Mersin chief prosecutor told Anadolu that at least 12 officers were wounded in the attack. Three prosecutors were assigned to investigate, he told Anadolu. Several police officers, ambulances and firefighters were sent to the scene, the agency reported earlier. The Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, which has waged a three-decade long insurgency in southeast Turkey, has targeted police in similar attacks in the past. The group is designated as a terror organization by Turkey and its allies. Left-wing militants and members of the Islamic State group have also carried out deadly attacks in the country. The U.S. is seeking to stay neutral in a conflict between two allies against the Islamic State, prompting concerns whether the distraction could derail the efforts to stabilize the region. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi ordered Iraqi army to move into Kirkuk province on Monday in an attempt to take over the area from the Kurdish Peshmerga forces that took the land when they defeated ISIS militants. The confrontation follows the independence referendum in which the Kurds voted in favor of establishing their own state, despite objections from the Iraqi government and the U.S. Kurdish officials accused the Iraqi army of conducting a major, multiprong attack and said heavy clashes occurred on Kirkuks outskirts. The Iraqis insist they met little resistance and the Kurds yielded the province quickly. U.S. State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said Monday the U.S. is urging all sides to restore calm to avoid further clashes. It echoed President Donald Trumps position on Monday, saying the U.S. government will not take side in the escalating civil war. We dont like the fact that theyre clashing, he told reporters at the White House on Monday, before adding that Were not taking sides. The civil war was largely in-waiting following Washingtons insistence to avoid sending large-scale troops to the Middle East and instead fight ISIS using two proxy groups the Iraqis and the Kurds while ignoring potential needs after the defeat of the militants, The Wall Street Journal reported. The U.S. neutrality in the dispute between the Iraqis and the Kurds serves as an endorsement for the Iraqs government position that the Kurdish region cannot claim independence. Inaction is a form of action, Lukman Faily, a former Iraqi ambassador to the U.S. told the Journal. This situation requires a peaceful, political solution, a State Department official told the Journal, warning that the conflict will only favor Islamic State and Iran. The U.S., the government of Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government and our entire coalition must be united in prioritizing the final defeat of ISIS. The Kurds will interpret the U.S. neutrality as a rebuke to them as they were key supporters of the U.S. presence in the region since the 2003 Iraq invasion. The further plans of the Iraqi government remain unclear, with a U.S. military official saying the central government unlikely to go after other Kurds-controlled areas, at least for now, the Journal reported. The Associated Press contributed to this report. next Image 1 of 2 prev Image 2 of 2 Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is rejecting opposition claims that regional elections for governors were shrouded in fraud. In a three-hour news conference Tuesday, Maduro defended Venezuela's voting system as one of the most secure in the world. He provided an on-site demonstration of how the nation's voting machines work and remarked that they are the same ones used in Chicago. Then he added: "Obama votes with this same machine." He extended his offer to dialogue with the opposition while also calling one of the five winning opposition candidates a "fascist" and poking fun at the name and looks of another who lost. Opposition leaders are disputing an official vote count that says the ruling socialist party won most of the 23 governorships elected Sunday. 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. A vote on the future of glyphosate use in the EU is likely to go down to the wire, the NFU has said. The European Commission has proposed relicensing glyphosate, the active ingredient in Monsantos Roundup weedkiller, for a 10-year period. Member states will vote on the proposal at a meeting of the EUs standing committee on plants, animals, food and feed on 25 October. See also: On-farm trials focus on growing without glyphosate Failure to secure enough votes at this meeting could see any decision delayed until the next meeting, on 12 December. More than a dozen member states have backed the commissions proposal to relicense the chemical. But doubts remain over how key countries, including France and Germany, will vote amid ongoing health concerns over the safety of glyphosate. The EU food safety watchdog, the European Food Safety Authority and the European Chemicals Agency have given glyphosate a clean bill of health. Monsanto says 40 years of research and scrutiny has shown that glyphosate is safe when used according to the label. But anti-pesticide campaigners are lobbying to stop the chemical from being re-approved, based on a 2015 scientific study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer which suggested glyphosate is a probable carcinogen. Key member states NFU vice-president Guy Smith travelled to Brussels last week to attend a meeting of Committee of Professional Agricultural Organisations plant health and protection working body. Mr Smith, who is also vice chairman of the working party, said the UKs position on glyphosate was clear the government will be voting for a full reauthorisation. But he acknowledged that the French and German votes could be key to deciding the fate of glyphosate use in future in Europe. As is often the case in Brussels it looks like this decision could go to the wire, said Mr Smith. The commissions insistence the reauthorisation of glyphosate must have the backing of enough member states that represent 65% of the EU population means the voting could be tight with France and Germany holding the balance. We are pleased to see the UK resolute in its commitment to re-approval. The other encouraging thing is France maybe softening their stance from no reauthorisation to one that favours a product withdrawal over several years. Most EU countries still not ready to vote on glyphosate. This is going to the wire. Back to Brussels for me.https://t.co/PLJx0IdF6d Guy Smith (@essexpeasant) October 7, 2017 Over the past few months, farmers have been making the case for relicensing glyphosate, pointing out its loss would have a significant effect on crop production costs, as many would probably have to revert to ploughing for weed control. This is too important and safe a product for British farmers to go without, added Mr Smith. Meanwhile, a ban on glyphosate-based weedkillers could add an additional 228m/year to the UK council tax bill to tackle weeds in public places, according to UK-based organisation Amenity Forum. Milling wheat growers are being reminded not to use shotguns to control vermin in grain stores, as some flour mills have reported increasing amounts of lead shot being found among grain intakes. Martin Savage, trade policy manager at the National Association of British and Irish Millers (Nabim), says while some shot can be screened out, a significant quantity may remain to contaminate end-products. Despite many attempts, it is impossible to determine whether the shot results from farmers shooting within grain stores or if it comes from shooting over standing crops, he said. See also: New significant wheat yellow rust strain is identified He pointed to a recent case where a growers crops became contaminated after a neighbouring farmer operated a simulated driven-game clay shooting operation on adjacent land and the shot fell onto the nearby wheat crop. However, Mr Savage added that it is difficult to understand how significant quantities of shot can result from this practice, and survive the harvesting process. Therefore, most of us believe that in the majority of these contamination cases, the shot comes from pest control within farm grain stores. Farmers should certainly never shoot within grain stores. Live cartridges Of greater concern for some mills is the recent discovery of live ammunition. Flour millers have not only detected lead shot in wheat, but also found spent .22 cartridges and even live .410 cartridges at intake, Mr Savage said. He explained that the problem is that the milling process flattens the shot to paper-thin proportions that cannot always be found by the existing in-line metal detection systems. In the past, there have been recalls of finished baked products which are not only very costly, but potentially damaging to the reputation of the food producer. We will always attempt to identify the loads containing shot and will not hesitate to seek compensation where problems occur, Mr Savage said. An angry farmer has been filmed confronting hunt saboteurs and ordering them to get off my land. The tenant farmer became incensed after finding supporters of the West Midland Hunt Saboteurs filming on his land. A clash broke out after saboteurs started recording the Atherstone Hunt on farmland in Radcliffe Culey, Leicestershire, on Saturday afternoon (14 October). Dressed in black and green John Deere overalls, the farmer is filmed driving his red quad bike at the sabs, some of whom are dressed in black and covering their faces with balaclavas. See also: The law on shooting dogs critical facts a farmer should know As the men are seen walking away from the farm down a private track, the farmer tells them: You are on private property. I can do what I want. The farmer is also filmed throwing a punch at one of the protesters. And he is heard saying: Thats one more, does anyone else want some? At one point during the standoff, he drives his quad bike at the protesters and knocks one of them into a ditch. Masked extremists The farmers actions have drawn a mixed response on social media. Some have criticised the farmer saying he overreacted, but others have pointed out that the protesters are breaking the law if they were trespassing on private land. A spokeswoman for the West Midland Hunt Saboteurs said: If that quad bike had gone into the ditch, the farmer could have killed or caused serious injury to someone. His behaviour was not rational and totally over the top. Tim Bonner, chief executive at the Countryside Alliance, told Farmers Weekly: It is completely unacceptable that masked extremists continue to harass farmers, hunts and other rural people. Their aim is to create fear and chaos and it should be no surprise that such behaviour generates a strong reaction. But he added: We should all be careful, however, not to overreact in a manner which helps them to achieve their aims. In a statement, Atherstone Hunt said: The Atherstone met at the Kennels this morning (Saturday) with a field of 50 riders. Both jumping and non-jumping people were again catered for. Hounds hunted the trails well and everyone had a lovely morning. We understand that one of our landowners requested that hunt saboteurs leave his land on which they were trespassing and after they refused he took steps to remove them. Such action is taken independently of the Atherstone Hunt and not regulated by us. We remain extremely grateful to our farmers and landowners for their continued support in allowing us to cross their land. Police investigation A spokesman for Leicestershire Police said: Officers are investigating an allegation of assault after a man sustained minor injuries in Ratcliffe Culey, Leicestershire, at the weekend. A report was made at 12.31pm on Saturday, 14 October which related to the victim having sustained an injury as a result of being involved in a collision with a quad bike. Enquiries are continuing into the incident. West Midland Hunt Saboteurs had filmed the same farmer running at them brandishing a type of rod while they were trespassing on his land in December. On this occasion, police took no action against him. Farmers Weekly contacted the farmer concerned but he declined to comment. A 23-year-old Echo man who is facing rape charges in Benton County will stand trial in March, a Circuit Court judge said Monday. Prosecutors filed charges against Connor Bryce Bettencourt in May. Bettencourts case will go to trial March 26, Judge David Connell said. According to the indictment in the case, on Jan. 30, 2015, Bettencourt engaged in sexual intercourse with the alleged victim, who was incapable of consent by reason of mental incapacitation and/or physical helplessness. Bettencourt is charged with first-degree rape, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration and second-degree sexual abuse, according to the indictment. He pleaded not guilty to all charges at a May 4 arraignment hearing. A judge imposed a $275,000 bond at that hearing. Bettencourt posted bail the following day. Portland attorney Mark Cogan is representing Bettencourt. Deputy District Attorney Amie Matusko is prosecuting the case. The trial for a California man accused of raping a teenager in a Philomath alleyway has been delayed until March, a judge said Monday. Dominique Elliot Thornton, a 28-year-old from Spring Valley, California, was set to stand trial Nov. 6. However, Thornton was appointed a new attorney, Clark Willes, in August and Willes requested more time to prepare. Benton County Circuit Court Judge David Connell allowed for the continuance and reset the trial for March 16. Philomath police arrested Thornton Jan. 18, two days after the alleged incident, according to a probable cause affidavit prepared by police. He was booked into the Benton County Jail, where he remained Monday. The 17-year-old alleged victim told police that the suspect invited himself to join her while she walked home from a friends house. The alleged victim told police the man grabbed her around the waist and forced her into an alleyway, where the crime allegedly occurred, the affidavit states. The incident was reported to police the following afternoon and the suspect was identified as Thornton, according to the affidavit. In a police interview, Thornton denied having sex with the girl, the affidavit states. Thornton faces charges of first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, second-degree sexual abuse and contributing to the sexual delinquency of a minor, according to court records. The Columbus Area Business Hall of Fame will induct its 12th class of honorees. The chamber is proud to announce the 2017 class of inductees: Marie Froemel, Charles Wurdeman and Robert Loshbaugh. Marie Froemel was a Columbus native and graduate of Columbus High School. After graduation, she worked alongside her father in the family-owned jewelry store, Froemel Jewelry. She worked for a jewelry wholesaler in Chicago, but found that lifestyle was not for her. She then worked for an Omaha jeweler, Bordegaard Brothers. Marie was a pioneer and an independent person, and not just in business. Marie homesteaded on 640 acres in northern Larimer County, Colorado, in 1928. To prove her homestead claim, she had to live on the ground seven months each year for three years. The rest of the time she worked for her father in the jewelry store in Columbus. She became manager of Froemel Jewelry in 1932, a position she would hold for the next 53 years. While in business she began diamond appraisal, gem identification, showcase and window design and ring and jewelry design. She was a member of the Nebraska and South Dakota Jewelers Associations. She served several terms as secretary-treasurer and upon her retirement was given lifetime membership in the organization. Marie gave back without recognition. In fact, when she died in 1995, her memorial gifts were key to beginning the local United Way endowment and library foundation. She was awarded the Legacy Award by the Columbus Area Philanthropy Council in 2015. Charles Wurdeman was an architect and builder in Columbus. In 1892, Charles took a vacation from his carpentry work to visit the Chicago Worlds Fair. While there he saw an architectural exhibit of the University of Illinois offering a two-year course. Two years later, Charles enrolled and graduated in 1896. He then put that education to work, leaving a lasting mark on Columbus, Platte County and Nebraska. He began his career by designing homes and small schools, doing the carpentry work himself to stay in business. Charles landed his first big job in 1902 St. Marys Hospital. Reinforced concrete had not yet been invented, so Charles invented a method using crushed flint rock mixed with cement. His formula was used in many of his later buildings and truly stood the test of time. Wurdeman left quite a legacy in the buildings of our community, including the Platte County Courthouse, St. Bonaventure expansion, St. Anthony, Pawnee Park stadium, the original BD Medical building, St. Lukes Church, the YMCA, many of the Columbus Public ward schools, the Wize Buys building, Gottschalk House and Evans House to name a few. Charles added his son Harold to the business in 1945, becoming Wurdeman & Wurdeman. In 1959, the firm became Raymond H. Reed, Wurdeman & Associates and Charles entered semi-retirement. He lived until 1961, passing away in his home on 23rd Avenue following an illness. The firm he began continues today and still bears his initial, as RVW Inc. Robert Loshbaugh was a businessman and entrepreneur, whose industriousness as a child started a relationship that led to his lifes work. As a boy, Bob held several jobs. But it was a job at Gembols gas station, just down the road from the Columbus Sales Pavilion, that first introduced Bob to Marion VanBerg and Marions daughter Eleanor. Eleanor would become Bobs wife and Marion would become Bobs mentor, employer and best friend. Bob served in World War II and married Eleanor during the war. After he was discharged from the Army Air Corps, Bob followed her wishes and returned to Columbus in 1946. March 1, 1946, was Bobs first day on the job at Columbus Sales Pavilion, working for Eleanors dad Marion. He admitted later that he didnt know what he was doing and he had a boss who wanted him to learn by trial and error ... and he did plenty of both. As Marion VanBerg continued to become interested in racing thoroughbreds, Bobs role in the Sales Pavilion grew. He began travelling to other markets and while driving taught himself to auctioneer. As the travel increased, Bob got his pilots license in 1946. He began making deals with cattlemen as far away as Canada and Mexico, expanding the footprint of the local sales barn. In the late 1940s, Montana became a region of particular focus for Bob. He spent many days in the state trying to convince cattlemen to sell in Columbus, without much success. In 1950, Bob bought the cattle himself and sold them in Columbus. After two years of positive results, several Montana cattlemen were convinced. The Montana sale became so big that Bob contracted a 25-car Union Pacific train to bring cattle to Columbus. Bob continued to improve the facility and brought grandson Travis Bock into the business. When Bob died in 2004, he had worked nearly 60 years at Columbus Sales Pavilion. In addition to growing the sale barn, Bob was integral in the development of three Columbus hotels, including the current Ramada-Columbus. He led the development of the Christophers Cove neighborhood. He served on the board of directors of First National Bank for 27 years, until the day of his death. Congratulations to the families of these business pioneers. The Columbus Area Business Hall of Fame induction banquet will be held Nov. 21 at Ramada-Columbus. The chamber will also present the following awards that night: Archway Award given to the areas outstanding businessman by Columbus Tire & Service Center; Ovation Award given to the areas outstanding businesswoman by Ernst Auto Center/Ernst Toyota; and Charles Farnham Volunteer of the Year given by First Nebraska Bank. Tickets for the event are on sale at the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and BankFirst for $35. Reserved corporate tables of eight tickets are available for $300. Contact the chamber office 402-564-2769 for more information. Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2021. Victim statement in camera : Woman testifies in Siegaue rape case Bonn During the court case of the rape of a female camper in the Siegaue, the 23-year-old woman made her statement. For three hours she testified and described the horrific night of April 2, 2017 - with the public excluded from the court room. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken Von Mareike Graepel During the court case of the rape of a female camper in the Siegaue, the 23-year-old woman made her statement. For three hours she testified and described the horrific night of April 2, 2017 - with the public excluded from the court room. The woman recalled the details of the night in front of the criminal division of the Bonn district court. At around quarter past midnight, according to senior public prosecutor Claudia Trauzettel the accused Eric X. cut open the tent with a saw, threatened the woman and took six Euro and a portable loudspeaker from her. He is said to have then verbally attacked the female student and raped her approximately ten meters away from the tent, with the axe within reach. The boyfriend of the the victim had to stay in the tent and listen to the crime without being able to intervene. In their statements in this trial, police officers have stated last week that the victim reacted with incredible presence of mind: She surrendered to her oppressor, unresisting, and demanded her boyfriend to keep his knife hidden and instead call the police. The 26-year-old man was questioned last week as well - like the victim, behind closed doors. He made clear that he recognized the voice of the 31-year-old Ghanian as well as the African accent in the accuseds speech. The accused again controverted the report of the State Office of Criminal Investigation, which said that sperm traces were found on the rape victim which belong - according to the expert - to the culprit with a probability of 30 billion to one. The statement of the victim staid behind closed doors also after the court day was over. The possibility that the female students statements made an impact on the accused refugee from Ghana seemed likely during the public statement of expert witness Dr. Wolfgang Schwachula. The accused looked at the head physician of the LVR clinic Langenfeld at first, but he hung his head afterwards and wiped tears from his eyes with the sleeve of his shirt. If this may be a sign of remorse or an expression of his mental constitution, remained unclear. The experts report offers more of an insight. The accused shows a clear discrepancy between his behavior and the motive for his action - so, between what happened and what he wants to think happened, explained Schwachula. The reasons for this lie in the accuseds past. Eric X. grew up in relatively luxurious circumstances, as the son of a plantation owner and as the prince of the family, who was supposed to inherit the fathers estate one day. After the fathers death there was a fight which ended with Eric X. battering his brother-in-law to death and fleeing. During the conversations with the accused it appeared that he is emotional unstable as well as narcissistically predispositioned. The conclusion of the experts: The conversations and the behavior during the crime show, that the accused is fully responsible for his actions and also dangerous above average. Schwachula ruled the possibility of a therapy out, because the 31-year-old behaved rather withdrawn and unreasonable. Detention Center The inmate count at the Platte County Detention Facility Monday was 50, with 44 from Platte County and six from out of county. Police Oct. 6 9:37 p.m. At the intersection of Eighth Street and 26th Avenue, an unknown vehicle struck a vehicle driven by Joel Magdaleno, 27, 3412 18th St., and left the scene. Oct. 8 8:08 a.m. At the 33rd Avenue viaduct, a vehicle driven by Jakeline Martinez, 18, 2519 Eighth St., struck a state guardrail and left the scene. Oct. 12 11:50 a.m. In a parking lot at the intersection of 18th Avenue and Woodland Drive, traffic accident. Drivers were David Hopwood, 69, Rising City, and Kristy Hopen, 28, 2469 18th Ave. 2:05 p.m. At the intersection of 14th Street and 26th Avenue, traffic accident. Drivers were Leland Smith, 90, 502 Wirges St., Elgin, and Charles Micek, 78, 120 Carol St., Shelby. Oct. 13 8:45 a.m. Theft at 2324 11th St., No. 2, bicycle stolen, $50 loss. 5:21 p.m. Theft at Reeders Grub & Pub, 2501 11th St., bicycle stolen, $50 loss. Oct. 14 8:02 a.m. Criminal mischief at Flowers From The Heart, 1263 25th Ave., window damaged, $300 loss. Oct. 15 10:13 a.m. Burglary at Carriage House Estates Mini Storage unit, pressure washer and five boxes of miscellaneous electronics items stolen, no loss amount. 1:18 p.m. Theft at 2459 Pershing Road, bicycle stolen, $600 loss. 9:16 p.m. Wallet stolen from purse at Super Saver, 3318 23rd St. $300 loss. Sheriff Oct. 14 4:42 a.m. Traffic violation at the intersection of Highway 22 and 325th Avenue, Amie Arland of Wyoming cited for speeding. 9:50 p.m. Traffic violation at the intersection of U.S. Highway 30 and East 59th Avenue, Maurice McAdams cited for no operators license. 10:12 p.m. Traffic violation at the intersection of East 44th Avenue and Highway 30, Marina Ortega of Schuyler jailed for no operators license. 11:40 p.m. Suspicious activity north of the intersection of Highway 22 and 400th Avenue, Jason Melloway of Missouri jailed for driving under the influence, refusal of a preliminary breath test and refusal of a chemical test and cited for driving left of center and driving on the shoulder. Oct. 15 11:31 a.m. Traffic violation at the intersection of East 32nd Avenue and Highway 30, Hugo Romero-Romero of Schuyler jailed for no operators license and cited for speeding. 1:58 p.m. Wanted person at 3317 25th St., No. 74, Chasin Renteria jailed on a Platte County warrant and cited for possession of drug paraphernalia. 4:21 p.m. Traffic violation in the 3800 block of East 23rd Street, Emmanuel Morales Garcia of Fremont cited for speeding. 4:34 p.m. At the intersection of Highway 30 and East 44th Avenue, Gage Christie of Columbus cited for speeding. Fire Oct. 13 8:12 a.m. In the 2600 block of 35th Street, medical. 9:42 a.m. In the 3000 block of East Eighth Street, medical. Noon Silent fire alarm in the 1000 block of 19th Street, broken gas line. 1:06 p.m. In the 3400 block of 50th Avenue, medical. 9:34 p.m. In the 3000 block of 39th Avenue, medical. 10 p.m. In the 2600 block of 40th Street, medical. Oct. 14 9:49 a.m. In the 3900 block of 27th Street, medical. 5:59 p.m. In the 1900 block of 25th Avenue, medical. Oct. 15 11:15 a.m. - In the 100 block of North Roselane, medical. 11:42 a.m. - In the 3300 block of Kummer Drive, medical. 12:05 p.m. - In the 4700 block of 38th Street, medical. 12:11 p.m. - In the 3100 block of 40th Street, medical. 1:06 p.m. - In the 2400 block of East Fifth Avenue, medical. 1:16 p.m. - In the 300 block of Centennial Street, medical. 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. COLUMBUS Area farmers were in for a treat Monday while they were busy harvesting their fields. Snacks and drinks were delivered to producers courtesy of the Lakeview FFA chapter. The group traveled the area to drop off snack packs filled with puppy chow, Chex mix and bottled water. This is the first time the FFA chapter has taken on the project they call Harvest Heroes. We wanted to give back to the farmers because they work so hard out in the fields. We are providing them with a little snack and something to drink while they are out there, said senior Brooklyn Wilke, president of Lakeview FFA. Lakeview students had the day off from school, giving about 30 FFA members helping out time to make the deliveries. They prepared 50 snack bags and loaded them in vehicles to take to farmers. Bags not delivered directly to farmers were taken to a cooperative. The FFA chapter is focusing more on community service projects this year, with a goal of at least one per month, according to adviser Catherine Ripp. Other upcoming projects include fruit and poinsettia sales, a labor auction where FFA members are "sold" for six hours of work and an alumni yard cleanup. The FFA chapter has 78 high school members and 20 who have graduated from Lakeview but are continuing with the program. Jacob Zuma Gushes After Massive Statue Of Him Was Erected in Imo Says Hes Leaving Nigeria As A Hero clarajancita at 17-10-2017 12:23 PM (5 years ago) (f) South Africa President Jacob Zuma has said he was at a loss for words after Governor Rochas Okorocha unveiled a giant statue of him in Imo state. You recall, Nigerians were flabbergasted when everyone woke up last Saturday to a giant statue of Jacob Zuma standing tall in Owerri, Imo state. Rochas Okorocha billionaire education philanthropist and governor of the Imo State had unveiled the bronze statue, named a street after Zuma, conferred him with a chieftaincy title and then the highest Merit Award in Imo state during his two-day visit to Nigeria which concluded on Sunday. South Africa President Jacob Zuma has said he was at a loss for words after Governor Rochas Okorocha unveiled a giant statue of him in Imo state. You recall, Nigerians were flabbergasted when everyone woke up last Saturday to a giant statue of Jacob Zuma standing tall in Owerri, Imo state. Rochas Okorocha billionaire education philanthropist and governor of the Imo State had unveiled the bronze statue, named a street after Zuma, conferred him with a chieftaincy title and then the highest Merit Award in Imo state during his two-day visit to Nigeria which concluded on Sunday. According to the Imo state government, Zumas visit to Nigeria and to the state was to strengthen socio-economic relations and deepen cooperation in education. Speaking about his visit, Zuma said he was at a loss for words: According to the Imo state government, Zumas visit to Nigeria and to the state was toSpeaking about his visit, Zuma said he was at a loss for words: Quote I walked in here as I say as an ordinary freedom fighter. Im leaving Nigeria through the state of Imo as a hero. What a decoration. The giant statue of Jacob Zuma in Owerri, Imo state had sparked outrage among Nigerians who, according to Okechukwu Nwanguma national coordinator of the civil society Network On Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN) were not informed about the statue. We just woke up to the news of the unveiling of the statue. The giant statue of Jacob Zuma in Owerri, Imo state had sparked outrage among Nigerians who, according to Okechukwu Nwanguma national coordinator of the civil society Network On Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN) were not informed about the statue. Post Reply I am a metro reporter on Gistmania, I have been publishing news materials for over 5 years Posted: at 17-10-2017 12:23 PM (5 years ago) | Hero kixme at 17-10-2017 12:27 PM (5 years ago) (m) which day this boy abi man go get sense..seem to be misbehaving to like BOURNTHROWAY Posted: at 17-10-2017 12:27 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac which day this boy abi man go get sense..seem to be misbehaving to like BOURNTHROWAY Reply BournIdentity at 17-10-2017 12:32 PM (5 years ago) (m) Hehehehehahahahahahaha..,,,,, I don fynish ur life kixMome, e remain one bar..,,, uno go escape am RIP Posted: at 17-10-2017 12:32 PM (5 years ago) | Addicted Hero Hehehehehahahahahahaha..,,,,, I don fynish ur life kixMome, e remain one bar..,,, uno go escape amRIP Reply freethinker at 17-10-2017 12:52 PM (5 years ago) (m) AGBOGHOAWUSA Posted: at 17-10-2017 12:52 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac AGBOGHOAWUSA Reply kixme at 17-10-2017 12:56 PM (5 years ago) (m) ::B ::)OURNTHROWAY is it a must that you must be stupid..like very stupid?? Posted: at 17-10-2017 12:56 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac ::B ::)OURNTHROWAY is it a must that you must be stupid..like very stupid?? Reply BournIdentity at 17-10-2017 01:22 PM (5 years ago) (m) @kixMome,, keep telling us that you're born a bastard and never leave hold on your papas name STUPID, you're truly representing your mad parents here Posted: at 17-10-2017 01:22 PM (5 years ago) | Addicted Hero @kixMome,, keep telling us that you're born a bastard and never leave hold on your papas name STUPID, you're truly representing your mad parents here Reply kixme at 17-10-2017 01:24 PM (5 years ago) (m) BOURNTHROWAY you ashawo mother never though of self control...why are you leaking all rounder as if your a duck fowl?? Posted: at 17-10-2017 01:24 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac BOURNTHROWAY you ashawo mother never though of self control...why are you leaking all rounder as if your a duck fowl?? Reply ruthie at 17-10-2017 01:25 PM (5 years ago) (f) Quote from: BournIdentity on 17-10-2017 01:22 PM @kixMome,, keep telling us that you're born a bastard and never leave hold on your papas name STUPID, you're truly representing your mad parents here Posted: at 17-10-2017 01:25 PM (5 years ago) | Hero haba...leave the parents out of the insults bros... Reply ruthie at 17-10-2017 01:27 PM (5 years ago) (f) Rochas have shown us that he is a empty head. Someone that was vilified in his country is being adored by Rochas...shameful Posted: at 17-10-2017 01:27 PM (5 years ago) | Hero Rochas have shown us that he is a empty head. Someone that was vilified in his country is being adored by Rochas...shameful Reply BournIdentity at 17-10-2017 01:49 PM (5 years ago) (m) kixMome, Id like to see things from your point of view, but I cant seem to get my head that far up your a#s. Your birth certificate is surely an apology letter from the condom factory. Posted: at 17-10-2017 01:49 PM (5 years ago) | Addicted Hero kixMome, Id like to see things from your point of view, but I cant seem to get my head that far up your a#s. Your birth certificate is surely an apology letter from the condom factory. Reply kixme at 17-10-2017 02:27 PM (5 years ago) (m) Bournthroway Bournthroway Bournthrowat....why have you choose stupidity as a career?... Posted: at 17-10-2017 02:27 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac Bournthroway Bournthroway Bournthrowat....why have you choose stupidity as a career?... Reply BournIdentity at 17-10-2017 02:38 PM (5 years ago) (m) I dont know what your problem is, but Im guessing its hard to pronounce your bastard name kixMome only that you failed to say where they dumped you Posted: at 17-10-2017 02:38 PM (5 years ago) | Addicted Hero I dont know what your problem is, but Im guessing its hard to pronounce your bastard name kixMomeonly that you failed to say where they dumped you Reply kacylee at 17-10-2017 07:04 PM (5 years ago) (f) can u imagine the nonsense.. this same president that is not regarded in his country come here dey shine at the detriment of the poor masses I have been reporting for several years now and I am very interested in visual news reportage with strong inclusion of photos and video multimedia. Posted: at 17-10-2017 07:04 PM (5 years ago) | Addicted Hero can u imagine the nonsense.. this same president that is not regarded in his country come here dey shine at the detriment of the poor masses Reply felicilin at 17-10-2017 02:15 PM (5 years ago) (f) Stargist.com presents 3 men who are billionaires and have beautiful yachts you just need to take a look at. Stargist.com presents 3 men who are billionaires and have beautiful yachts you just need to take a look at. 1. Femi Otedola The oil and gas sector powerhouse is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Zenon Petroleum and Gas limited. Chairman of Forte Oil, Femi Otedola owns a yacht very similar to Dangotes own and its called Nana. Otedolas yacht is usually docked at Walter Carrington In Victoria Island. The beautiful boat was rented to out Mavin first lady and Forte Oil ambassador, Tiwa Savage for her baby shower. Femis yacht has also played host to the likes of Davido and Dele Momodu in the past. 2. Aliko Dangote Africas richest man, Aliko Dangote, owns a luxury yacht called the Mariya which he purchased in 2013. Very little is known about the yacht who built it or how big it is. Reports have it that the boat costs about $43 million. Photos on the internet show that the yacht looks exactly like the one owned by oil magnate, Femi Otedola only slightly smaller After purchasing it, Dangote had the custom made yacht docked right next to the one belonging to Dangotes close friend and fellow Forbes billionaire, Femi Otedola. During Sallah this year, he treated his fellow billionaire friends to a treat on his yacht. 3. Kola Aluko Kola Aluko is a Nigerian energy business magnate majorly concerned about African infrastructure development and aviation. The burgeoning businessman is the Co-Chief Officer and an Executive Director of Atlantic Energy, an indigenous, private upstream oil and gas company, focused on independent exploration and production (E&P) participation in Nigeria. The 46-year-old business tycoon has a lot of influence in the Nigerian government and is close allies with former minister of petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke. Certain reports disclosed by SaharaReporters allege that he was a front man who laundered most of Diezanis ill-gotten wealth. Despite reports that the yacht costs $900,000 a week (580,000) to charter, we learnt you have to know Kola Aluko before you can rent the yacht. It was once rented out to American music industry power couple, Jay Z and Beyonce for a holiday cruise. The oil and gas sector powerhouse is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Zenon Petroleum and Gas limited.Chairman of Forte Oil, Femi Otedola owns a yacht very similar to Dangotes own and its called Nana.Otedolas yacht is usually docked at Walter Carrington In Victoria Island. The beautiful boat was rented to out Mavin first lady and Forte Oil ambassador, Tiwa Savage for her baby shower.Femis yacht has also played host to the likes of Davido and Dele Momodu in the past.Africas richest man, Aliko Dangote, owns a luxury yacht called the Mariya which he purchased in 2013. Very little is known about the yacht who built it or how big it is. Reports have it that the boat costs about $43 million.Photos on the internet show that the yacht looks exactly like the one owned by oil magnate, Femi Otedola only slightly smallerAfter purchasing it, Dangote had the custom made yacht docked right next to the one belonging to Dangotes close friend and fellow Forbes billionaire, Femi Otedola.During Sallah this year, he treated his fellow billionaire friends to a treat on his yacht.Kola Aluko is a Nigerian energy business magnate majorly concerned about African infrastructure development and aviation.The burgeoning businessman is the Co-Chief Officer and an Executive Director of Atlantic Energy, an indigenous, private upstream oil and gas company, focused on independent exploration and production (E&P) participation in Nigeria.The 46-year-old business tycoon has a lot of influence in the Nigerian government and is close allies with former minister of petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke. Certain reports disclosed by SaharaReporters allege that he was a front man who laundered most of Diezanis ill-gotten wealth.Despite reports that the yacht costs $900,000 a week (580,000) to charter, we learnt you have to know Kola Aluko before you can rent the yacht.It was once rented out to American music industry power couple, Jay Z and Beyonce for a holiday cruise. Post Reply Posted: at 17-10-2017 02:15 PM (5 years ago) | Hero kejguv at 17-10-2017 02:51 PM (5 years ago) (m) It was a tale of woes and anguish for residents of the riverine Ajakurama community near the Egbema Kingdom in Ovia South West council area of Edo state as soldiers razed down 15 houses in the area. It was a tale of woes and anguish for residents of the riverine Ajakurama community near the Egbema Kingdom in Ovia South West council area of Edo state as soldiers razed down 15 houses in the area. The incident occurred in the early hours of the day as the residents of the area flee for their lives. Investigations revealed that the soldiers said to be men of the Operation Crocodile Smile2 had stormed the community in nine gunboats and several speedboats in search of suspected kidnappers. It was alleged that the soldiers were called into Ajakurama community at about 8:00 am by an ex-militant General identified as Mr. Ejuene Peres to settle old scores against those perceived to be his arch enemies. But Peres in reactions said he never invited soldiers to the community, stressing that he only petitioned some persons in the community before the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris who referred the matter to the AIG Zone 5, Benin for proper investigation over the alleged destruction of his house. He said, The incident occurred in the early hours of the day as the residents of the area flee for their lives.Investigations revealed that the soldiers said to be men of the Operation Crocodile Smile2 had stormed the community in nine gunboats and several speedboats in search of suspected kidnappers.It was alleged that the soldiers were called into Ajakurama community at about 8:00 am by an ex-militant General identified as Mr. Ejuene Peres to settle old scores against those perceived to be his arch enemies.But Peres in reactions said he never invited soldiers to the community, stressing that he only petitioned some persons in the community before the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris who referred the matter to the AIG Zone 5, Benin for proper investigation over the alleged destruction of his house.He said, Quote I did not invite any soldiers, I didnt make any arrangement with any soldier to enter into Ajakurama; Ajakurama is a community on its own. It is a Nigerian community; soldiers can go to Ajakurama for any of their investigations. If soldiers went to Ajakurama community they should not call me. I did not invite soldiers to Ajakurama; people who offended me, I wrote a petition to the IGP and the IGP recommended the petition to the AIG. The AIG invited them, so they should go and answer the AIG who is still waiting for them. so, if anything happens to them, I dont know where they have put their hands, I have not handed in Ajakurama matter. They should ask the federal government how soldiers came to Ajakurama, they should ask Abuja, they should ask Zone 5; they should ask Operation Crocodile in Warri why they are in Ajakurama. It was learnt that the family of the said Peres had a previous case involving the alleged murder of a community leader from another household in the same area. The source stated that family members of the deceased community leader had taken the corpse discovered to be floating on a nearby village river to the residential family building of Mr. Peres which lasted for over one week. Elders and residents of the community were said to have called for a truce and buried the man while the case was pending at the office of the AIG Zone 5 in Benin. Further findings showed the said Peres in a bid to avenge the old vexed issue in which his father was alleged fingered, invited the soldiers. The source also alleged Peres had personally led the soldiers to point at the houses of perceived enemies before they destroyed the buildings. According to the source that preferred anonymous, the invasion which took residents by surprise was allegedly on the invitation of the military by ex-Militant General, Mr. Ejuene Peres under the pretext of searching for kidnappers. The source noted that the said Peres used the military invasion to settled old score he had with some persons in the community who fingered his family over the death of the community leader. It was learnt that the family of the said Peres had a previous case involving the alleged murder of a community leader from another household in the same area.The source stated that family members of the deceased community leader had taken the corpse discovered to be floating on a nearby village river to the residential family building of Mr. Peres which lasted for over one week.Elders and residents of the community were said to have called for a truce and buried the man while the case was pending at the office of the AIG Zone 5 in Benin.Further findings showed the said Peres in a bid to avenge the old vexed issue in which his father was alleged fingered, invited the soldiers.The source also alleged Peres had personally led the soldiers to point at the houses of perceived enemies before they destroyed the buildings.According to the source that preferred anonymous, the invasion which took residents by surprise was allegedly on the invitation of the military by ex-Militant General, Mr. Ejuene Peres under the pretext of searching for kidnappers.The source noted that the said Peres used the military invasion to settled old score he had with some persons in the community who fingered his family over the death of the community leader. Quote He (Peres) brought in military men to invade the community of some selected persons. They came in 9 gunboats and several speedboats. People started running helter skater for their lives. He was with the soldiers pointing at houses while the soldiers set houses ablaze He listed among other victims whose houses were affected as Chief Godwin Namu, Baba Agbuke, aka Zion and all Ex-militant leaders. The source added that inhabitants of the community are peaceful people and wondered why such invasion could be carried out by the military without proper investigation. It was also gathered that the soldiers on arrival switched off the GSM communications mast located within the area to prevent any contact with people outside the community. All efforts to get the comment of the Army Public Relations Officer for 4 Brigade Command, Benin, Capt. Muhammed Maidawa yesterday was not successful as he failed to pick nor reply to the repeated calls and SMS to his phone. Also, the State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Moses Nkombe when contacted yesterday said the command was not aware of the incident. The source added that inhabitants of the community are peaceful people and wondered why such invasion could be carried out by the military without proper investigation.It was also gathered that the soldiers on arrival switched off the GSM communications mast located within the area to prevent any contact with people outside the community.All efforts to get the comment of the Army Public Relations Officer for 4 Brigade Command, Benin, Capt. Muhammed Maidawa yesterday was not successful as he failed to pick nor reply to the repeated calls and SMS to his phone.Also, the State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Moses Nkombe when contacted yesterday said the command was not aware of the incident. Post Reply Writing is my passion and facts-proofing is my hobby, I have been writing at Gistmania for close to a decade now and It is one of the most exciting things I do. Outside writing, I love enjoying time with my loved ones - if you have any tip for me, please do get in touch Posted: at 17-10-2017 02:51 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac fancymulla at 17-10-2017 02:56 PM (5 years ago) (m) A cross-section of Nigerians has commended the President, General Muhammadu Buhari, for his deft management of what could easily have blown into a national crisis the exchanges between the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, and the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru. The issues broke into the open following an internal memorandum dated August 30, this year, addressed to the President by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, highlighting what he described as procedural infringements by the NNPC Group Managing Director, including allegations of bypassing the Minister of State, who is also Chairman of the NNPC Board, and failing to report to the Board in key decision like the awarding of major contracts. That the memo leaked to the mass media apparently triggered chains of reactions, including denials of there being any unwholesome intent in the award of the cited contracts, an allegation that was not made in the memorandum. Public reactions followed, many full of sentimental content. There were also questions about who leaked the internal memo to the Press and whether the contracts mentioned should have been sent to the Minister of State for approval. Also in discourse was whether the Minister of States memo was concealed by Presidency personnel, and delayed in reaching the President. However, the President acted in a fatherly manner by analyzing the issues objectively, and resolved the issue, which was about the need for due process in the NNPCs operations, and not about any allegation of wrong doing. For some reason yet to be established, some reactions to the Minister of States memo veered in the direction of there being no unwholesome acts in the award of the contracts. Our reporters found that there were no such accusations in the memo. In the heat of all this, ISWB commissioned a team of experts to conduct a mini Public Opinion Poll (POP) to determine the feelings of the populace on the issue, including whether the facts were well understood and how the issue was managed by the Presidency to which the memo was addressed. The survey team interviewed 50 persons online from various parts of Nigeria. Five questions were asked: 1. Did you follow the media exchange after the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources memo to the President on irregularities in processes by the Group Managing Director of the NNPC? 2. Did you understand the issues stated in the Ministers memo and in the GMDs reactions? 3. Were there any mentions or allegations of corruption in the Ministers memo? 4. Do you believe that the issue was well understood and managed by the media and the public? 5. What do you think was responsible for the dowsing of the tension that was building up from the issue? A majority responded that the potential crisis was prevented by the mature handling of the situation by the President. Thirty-eight of the 50 respondents said the tension was doused by the Presidents mature handling of the issue. Seven said the problem could have been resolved with or without any intervention, while five gave no answer. Several respondents (39) went out of the way to state that the issues in the memo did not merit the level of public reaction that came with the matter, while many others (41) said that felt that the media did not handle the issue well. Twenty-three respondents said the Presidential media team did not handle the issue properly. Ten commented that the Presidential team helped blow the matter out of proportion. Nearly all those who responded to the question on allegations of corruption (43) said there was no allegation or implying of corrupt or any unwholesome practices by the Minister against the GMD. Some said the memo only talked of procedural irregularities and the need to comply with laid-down procedures. A few others said the issues in the memo were all purely administrative and routine. One respondent rather cynically wrote back: Is it not guilty conscience to cry wolf when there is none? Beyond the mini poll, ISWB reporting crews felt the pulse across opinion leaders in various parts of the country, and from media reportage. Opinion leaders like rights activism lawyer Femi Falana and the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, were, according to media reports, of the view that the matter could have been better managed. Barrister Falana, SAN, said the memo merely mentioned perceived administrative lapses that needed not be blown out of proportion, and that Presidency insiders who were accused of blocking the ministers access to the President should be sanctioned. PANDEF, on its part, said the Minister of State was correct to draw the Presidents attention to breeches of transparency and accountability flaws. It said the NNPC Group Managing Director was wrong to sideline the Minister of State. Meanwhile, calm has returned to the petroleum industry, as the dust raised by the memo saga dies down. The country now looks forward to the combatant sides to calm down and let procedures be complied with by everybody, with no one imagining that he or she is exempt from administrative procedures. Post Reply Posted: at 17-10-2017 02:56 PM (5 years ago) | Upcoming A man long considered the prime suspect in the 2010 disappearance of fellow Peru State College student Tyler "Ty" Thomas has been charged with her murder. Nearly seven years have passed since Thomas disappeared following an early December night out with her friends. The 19-year-old's body was never found during scores of searches centered along the Nemaha County stretch of the Missouri River, where Joshua Keadle, the 29-year-old who lived across the dorm hall from her, told investigators hed left Thomas after an argument early on Dec. 3, 2010. On Tuesday, Keadle, now a 36-year-old Lincoln Correctional Center inmate on a sex assault conviction, was charged with killing her. The Nebraska Attorney Generals Office announced in a news release that Keadle has been charged with first-degree murder in Nemaha County Court. Though he has been behind bars and faced an array of charges following Thomas disappearance, this is the first time that he has been accused in criminal court of killing her. Having handled the case for a number of years on the civil side, I believe this was the right decision, said Lincoln attorney Vince Powers, who represented Thomas parents in a wrongful death lawsuit where jurors awarded a largely symbolic $2.6 billion settlement against Keadle. Powers said that, if not for the persistence of Thomas parents, the criminal case could have stalled. Im just so happy for the parents who refused to let their daughters memory fade, Powers said. These civil suits helped keep her memory alive. Keadle has been in jail or prison ever since he was initially arrested in December of 2010 on suspicion of tampering with evidence and providing false information in the Thomas investigation. He was charged with more severe crimes, including three counts in the first-degree sexual assault of another young woman in Peru. That case was dropped by the Nemaha County Attorneys Office, which will assist the state attorneys office in the murder case, according to a news release. Keadle, who enrolled in and flamed out of several Nebraska colleges, was later convicted of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old in 2008 in Fremont. He is now serving a 15-20-year sentence for that conviction, but the process to parole Keadle for that case reached a minor milestone on Oct. 13, four days before he was charged with murder. Last Friday, Keadles case was reviewed during a hearing at Lincoln Correctional Center. The closed-door hearings are general procedure, and are held prior to an inmates actual parole eligibility date. A follow-up was set for October of 2018, according to the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services website. And his earliest possible parole date Dec. 20, 2018 remained unchanged. As Keadles parole date drew closer, frustration mounted for Thomas family. Her mother, La Tanya Thomas, wrote in mid-July of 2016 on a Facebook page devoted to her daughters memory and disappearance that she was more than tired of waiting for a resolution. I pray daily that I would have updates or any news to share about Tyler's case but it seems to have stalled, she wrote in the post. Joshua Keadle has been found responsible in the civil case but has still yet to be criminally charged. I can't understand this! In a couple of years he will be free Kevin Semans, Ty Thomas father, declined to comment when reached by phone Tuesday. A message left for La Tanya Thomas was not returned. Powers said that he met with the Nebraska attorney general a year ago to discuss the Thomas case. He said he had promised Thomas parents that, if the state did not charge Keadle, he would gather petition signatures from Nemaha County in an effort to summon a grand jury and present evidence in the case and potentially charge Keadle. He said he was convinced he could have gotten the estimated 250 signatures needed to move forward. He said he believed there was enough evidence from the civil case for a criminal conviction. A law enforcement affidavit filed in support of Keadle's murder charge provides the most detailed timeline of the events that preceded and immediately followed Thomas disappearance. It does not reveal any new physical evidence in connection with the case. The first two Peru State College students to set out in search for her early on Dec. 3, 2010, were immediately interrupted by Keadle, wrote Kerry Crosby, an investigator with the attorney general's office. Thomas had been out with friends in the small college town on the night of Dec. 2, 2010, visiting a few houses before leaving alone following a minor argument with a woman. According to the affidavit, one of Thomas friends, a fellow Peru State student, received a text at 1:25 a.m. on Dec. 3 from Thomas phone: Where are you at, I cant find myself, Im outside walking around." She and another student immediately prepared to leave in search of Thomas, but Keadle appeared at their dorm door shirtless and wearing basketball shorts, the affidavit states. When the two told him they were going to look for Thomas, he told them that he had seen her walking near a parking lot north of the dorm. The two students then left Keadle and drove around Peru in search of their friend, according to the affidavit. Keadle didn't mention then what he later told investigators: that he had been with Thomas early Dec. 3 along the banks of the Missouri River, east of the campus. And he told another Peru State student nothing after he abandoned what she believed were their post-movie plans. She told investigators that after she and Keadle returned from a movie in Nebraska City, they joined two others and were driving to smoke pot at their dormitory, known as the Plex, where Thomas also lived. On the way, they saw Thomas walking on the sidewalk near the dorms north parking lot. The woman told investigators that, after they parked, Keadle never came to her room. She texted him, but he didnt respond until later on the morning of Dec. 3. In the days that followed, several people who knew Keadle reported that he was acting strangely. Keadles dormitory roommate was in Lincoln for four days starting Dec. 2. When he returned to his dorm, he said Keadle asked him to say that they spent the night of Thomas disappearance together, according to the affidavit. Another Peru State student said he saw Keadle at the schools student center on Dec. 4 and asked him why he was behaving nervously. According to the affidavit, Keadle told him that he was being investigated for marijuana and had a dirty gun in his car and asked him to take the gun and hide it in his house. He refused to, according to the affidavit. A previous search warrant filed in relation to the case mentions that investigators were searching for a gun, but did not recover one. Nor did investigators recover a pair of basketball shorts matching the set described by one of the first two students to go in search of Thomas. According to the affidavit, Keadle later told investigators he was wearing something different the night that Thomas went missing blue jeans, a long-sleeved black shirt, a gray hoodie and brown shoes. Those items were collected during a consensual search of his dorm room on Dec. 7. For four days beginning Dec. 4, Keadle spoke multiple times with investigators. The affidavit echoes previously filed search warrants in stating that Keadles story changed over the course of those conversations. On Dec. 6, he told investigators that he had gone to his dorm room after leaving his movie date, saying he was having stomach problems. But the next day, he told investigators that he had driven to the Missouri River with Thomas to smoke pot with her. The affidavit states that he told investigators that she agreed to perform a sex act for a ride to her hometown of Omaha. He changed his mind about the agreement, he told investigators, and said he instead left her at the rivers edge after she threatened to report that hed raped her, then threw her cellphone at him. Keadle took investigators to the river and showed them where he said hed last left Thomas, according to the affidavit. A Nemaha County sheriffs deputy reported seeing tire marks that appeared similar to those of Keadles Ford Explorer. They were touching the waters edge. The SUV has been impounded in Auburn, in possession of the county sheriffs office, ever since the initial investigation. In a December 2011 phone interview from a Nemaha County holding cell after his sex assault case in that county was dropped, Keadle maintained his innocence regarding Thomas disappearance, saying that investigators twisted his words in his initial interviews. "I told them everything in order to help," Keadle said then. "I didn't have to do that. I didn't. I could have said I want a lawyer and not say a word." Keadles initial appearance in Nemaha County Court in connection with the murder charge has not been scheduled. Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCwire) - Prophecy Development Corp. (Prophecy or the Company) (TSX:PCY, OTCPK:PRPCF, Frankfurt:1P2N) announces that it has closed the second and final tranche of its non-brokered private placement previously announced on August 25, 2017, increased on September 1, 2017, and further increased on October 4, 2016 (the Placement). The second and final tranche of the Placement raised gross cash proceeds of $1,858,325 through the issuance of 116,578 units (the Units) and 414,371 special warrants (the Special Warrants) of Prophecy, at a price of $3.50 each. Each Unit is comprised of one Common share and one half of one Common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Common share of the Company at an exercise price of $4.00 for a period of three years from the closing of the second tranche of Placement. Each Special Warrant will be exercisable for one Unit at no additional cost to the holder provided TSX and shareholder approval for the issuance of the Units underlying the Special Warrants is obtained at a special meeting of shareholders to be held on December 15, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. (PST) (the Special Meeting) at Suite 488 1090 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 3V7. All Common shares attached to the Units issued in connection with this second and final tranche of the Placement are subject to a four month and one day hold period. The Company paid in cash, finders fees totaling $56,020 and issued 9,326 finders Special Warrants which are exercisable on identical terms as those Special Warrants issued to subscribers through the Placement. The first tranche of the Placement, grossing $4,539,390 in proceeds, closed on September 20, 2017. The total gross aggregate Placement proceeds of $6,397,715 are expected to be used for the Companys mineral project development and for general working capital purposes. The Company also announces that it has entered into Debt Settlement Agreements with certain directors and officers of the Company pursuant to which, the Company has agreed, subject to the approval of the TSX and disinterested shareholders at the Special Meeting, to issue an aggregate of 42,254 Units, in satisfaction of an aggregate of $147,898 of indebtedness currently owed by the Company to such persons. The Company further announces that it has entered into a Consulting Agreement with Skanderbeg Capital Advisors Inc. (Skanderbeg) to explore and evaluate strategic alternatives to maximize value for Prophecy's non-core assets in exchange for the issuance of 98,420 Units. Skanderbeg will draw on their extensive network of contacts and advise on optimal structure for potential transactions, which can include outright sales or partial sales of mineral claims and/or subsidiaries, corporate spin-offs, joint-ventures with major mining producers, mergers, consolidations with other assets, etc. At the Special Meeting, shareholders will also be asked to approve the issuance of such Units to Skanderbeg. The Company also further announces that it has entered into an Advisory Agreement with Hillcrest Merchant Partners Inc., who has agreed to provide corporate development and financial advisory services related to the Companys Gibellini vanadium project, including equity and debt arrangement, product off-take, merger and acquistion negotiations with any strategic investors in exchange for annual aggregate payments totaling $156,000. About Prophecy Prophecy Development Corp. is a Canadian public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The Company aims to provide exposure and leverage to rising vanadium prices by defining and adding attributable vanadium resources in the ground in politically safe jurisdictions. Further information on Prophecy can be found at www.prophecydev.com. Prophecy Development Corp. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD JOHN LEE Executive Chairman For more information about Prophecy, please contact Investor Relations: +1.888.513.6286 ir@prophecydev.com www.prophecydev.com Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this news release, including statements which may contain words such as expects, anticipates, intends, plans, believes, estimates, or similar expressions, and statements related to matters which are not historical facts, are forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements, which reflect managements expectations regarding Prophecys future growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, are based on certain factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Prophecys forward-looking statements. Prophecy believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the documents incorporated by reference herein are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In addition, although Prophecy has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Prophecy undertakes no obligation to release publicly any future revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as expressly required by law. To view this press release as a PDF file, click onto the following link:public://news_release_pdf/ProphecyOct162017.pdfSource: Prophecy Development Corp. (TSX:PCY, OTC Pink:PRPCF, FWB:1P2N) To follow Prophecy Development Corp. on your favorite social media platform or financial websites, please click on the icons below. Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2017 Filing Services Canada Inc. VANCOUVER, Oct. 16, 2017 /CNW/ - Eco Oro Minerals Corp. ("Eco Oro" or the "Company") (TSX: EOM) is pleased to announce that its previously announced plan of arrangement, pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the "Plan of Arrangement"), has become effective. Under the Plan of Arrangement, a portion of the contingent value rights ("CVRs") issued by the Company were redistributed among the electing shareholders of the Company that did not previously hold CVRs (such electing shareholders, "Participating Entitled Shareholders"). Such CVRs are held by Kingsdale Partners LP (the "Custodian"), as agent and depositary for the Participating Entitled Shareholders, pursuant to a custodian and depositary agreement between the Company and the Custodian and agreed to by the Participating Entitled Shareholders. In addition, under the Plan of Arrangement, the conversion of certain of the Company's notes was rescinded such that the 10,600,000 shares issued in connection therewith were cancelled and the Company reinstated and reissued approximately US$4,721,257 principal amount of notes originally converted, resulting in an aggregate principal amount of approximately US$9,672,727 of notes currently outstanding. 1,750,000 options of the Company were also terminated for no consideration. Company Profile Eco Oro Minerals Corp. is a publicly-traded precious metals exploration and development company with a portfolio of projects in Colombia. Eco Oro has been focused on its wholly-owned, multi-million ounce Angostura gold-silver deposit, located in northeastern Colombia. Forward-Looking Information Certain statements in this press release are "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Canadian and United States securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the condition and outlook of the Company following the implementation of the Plan of Arrangement. Forward-looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "in the event", "if", "believes", "assets", "position", "intends", "envisages", "assumes", "recommends", "estimates", "approximate", "projects", "potential", "indicate" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon the current belief, opinions and expectations of management that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant litigation, business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and other contingencies. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward looking statements. These factors include, among others, the risks associated with the Company's arbitration claim and the redistribution of the gross proceeds thereof to the Participating Entitled Shareholders and any additional costs that may be incurred by the Company which are currently not contemplated. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. SOURCE Eco Oro Minerals Corp. CALGARY, Oct. 17, 2017 /CNW/ - PRIZE MINING CORPORATION ("Prize" or the "Company") (TSXV:PRZ) (MQSP:GR:FRANKFURT) is pleased to announce it was issued an amended Mines Act permit from the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources of BC authorizing mineral exploration activities on its Daylight Property. Feisal Somji, chief executive officer of Prize commented: "We look forward to our much anticipated Daylight property drill program. The focus of the program will be on newly defined anomalous targets which have been prioritized from our summer surface exploration work. Historical producing mines on the property have returned grades as high as 37g/t gold, with 2017 grab samples returning as high as 9g/t gold. We are excited to follow up on these combined datasets with a discovery focused drill program. The Company is in a fully financed position and will be mobilizing in the short term." The permit gives Prize the right to create up to 3km of access trails, 25 drill sites with sumps and 20 trenching sites. Prize has finalized contracts with Wade Critchlow Enterprises Ltd. of Salmo, BC to engage in all of its trenching activities, and Lucky Drilling Ltd. of Castlegar, BC for its drilling operations. Both companies are expected to mobilize this week. The Company also anticipates receiving a similar mines permit in the near future for its Toughnut property which is contiguous to the Daylight claims. Jarrod Brown, P.Geo., a Qualified Person under NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release. About Prize Mining Corp. Prize is a Calgary-based junior mining issuer with offices in Calgary, Alta., and is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. Prize is engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mining properties. Follow Prize Mining Corp. on Facebook Follow Prize Mining Corp. on Twitter Follow Prize Mining Corp. on LinkedIn Reader Advisory Forward-Looking Statements. This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "potential", or other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may", "should" or "could" occur. The forward-looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Prize, including expectations and assumptions concerning the upcoming trenching and drilling program on Prize's Daylight Property and the timeline for receipt of a permit which would allow for an exploration program on Prize's Toughnut Property. Although Prize believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because Prize can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. There is no assurance that the result of these exploration programs will be successful. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, exploration risks and that required regulatory and third party approvals and consents are not obtained on terms satisfactory to the parties within the timelines provided. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable by the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date hereof. The Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking information contained herein to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as may be required under 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. SOURCE Prize Mining Corp. COEUR D'ALENE, ID / ACCESSWIRE / October 17, 2017 / Star Gold Corp. ("Star Gold" or the "Company") (OTCQB: SRGZ) announced today that it completed a capital raise of $1,079,885 through a private placement of the Company's shares of common stock and share purchase warrants. Members of management accounted for 25.5% of the raise. No brokers or other third-parties were involved in the offering; as such, all monies will be available for use by the Company. Star Gold has two remaining processes to complete prior to first, filing a Plan of Operations with the United States Forest Service (USFS), and then producing an EIS (Environmental Impact Statement). These two remaining processes are: Completing a baseline hydrological study of the project area which includes drilling to locate depth to the water table. Completing basic engineering and design for the proposed mine and leach pads. This information will be compiled with other baseline and design information into the overall Plan of Operations. Once these steps have been completed and approval received from USFS, Star Gold intends to proceed to prepare a formal EIS. The completion of this current financing should provide adequate funding to complete the tasks remaining to finalize a Plan of Operations and preparation of an EIS. Commenting on this capital raise, President of Star Gold, David Segelov, stated, "As we continue to advance through the permitting process, Star Gold has been mindful of remaining sufficiently funded in order to progress with efficacy. Star Gold is pleased to have secured this funding and it is a testament to the quality of the project that so many existing shareholders have chosen to participate." About Star Gold Corp. Star Gold is a gold exploration/development company with 125 unpatented claims located within the Walker Lane belt. The Company is currently focused on developing its flagship property, the Longstreet Property. The Longstreet Property is located in Nye County, Nevada. Investor Contact: David Segelov Office: 208-664-5066 Cell: 646-626-3356 dsegelov@stargoldcorp.com info@stargoldcorp.com Disclaimers Certain statements in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "believe," "expect," "future," "may," "will," "would," "should," "plan," "projected," "intend," and similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Star Gold Corp. (the Company) to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company's future operating results are dependent upon many factors, including but not limited to the Company's ability to: (i) obtain sufficient capital or a strategic business arrangement to fund its expansion plans; (ii) build the management and human resources and infrastructure necessary to support the growth of its business; (iii) competitive factors and developments beyond the Company's control; and (iv) other risk factors discussed in the Company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available for review at www.sec.gov under "Search for Company Filings." SOURCE: Star Gold Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCwire) - PPX Mining Corp. (the "Company" or PPX) is pleased to announce that the Company has appointed Meri Verli of Toronto, Canada Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of PPX effective as of October 1, 2017. Meri brings over twenty years of experience in all aspects of finance, cost control, accounting and financial reporting. Prior to joining PPX, Meri was Senior Vice President Finance and Treasury at Kirkland Lake Gold, leading the consolidation of financial records, accounting procedures and fiscal reporting protocols of Kirkland Lake through multiple M & A transactions. Meri also worked with Lakeshore Gold for nine years prior to their consolidation with Tahoe Resources in 2016. Meri served as Vice President Finance at Lakeshore, helping guide the company from explorer to underground miner. Meri worked for KPMG from 1997 until 2007 and is a CA and CPA in Canada. As part of her compensation, Meri has been granted 800,000 incentive stock options pursuant to the Companys Stock Option Plan at a price of $0.075 per share. The options are exercisable for a period of five (5) years. Brian J. Maher, President and CEO of PPX Mining commented: We are excited to announce Meri Verli joining PPX as CFO. Meris experience at Kirkland Lake and Lakeshore, two large scale and successful underground gold miners, should greatly assist the Company as we advance the Igor Project and move forward with our Pre Feasibility Study (PFS) for Mina Callanquitas. Beyond engineering and geology, underground mining is a detailed exercise in cost control, economic evaluation, mine planning and scheduling. We look forward to applying Meris expertise in these areas to our project and the Mina Callanquitas PFS in the months ahead. About PPX Mining Corp: PPX Mining Corp. (TSX.V: PPX.V, SSE: PPX, BVL: PPX) is a Canadian-based exploration and development company with assets in northern Peru. Igor, the Companys 100%-owned flagship gold and silver project, is located in the prolific Northern Peru gold belt in eastern La Libertad Department. PPX is pursuing a two-prong strategy to further develop and explore the Igor Project. The Company has begun work on its underground test mining and bulk sampling program which is designed to upgrade the resource estimate and generate data to evaluate the possibility of future mine development at Igor through the PFS process. To date, PPX has processed over 4,807 tonnes of bulk sample averaging 8.07 gpt gold. Simultaneously, PPX is accelerating its exploration program at Igor in order to fully evaluate the resource potential of the entire Igor project area. The Callanquitas Structure is open along strike and at depth. Parallel structures are unexplored and, coupled with the Domo and Tesoros areas; these drill targets highlight the exploration potential at Igor. Evaluating mine development alternatives in parallel with exploration drilling provide dual catalysts for growth and increasing shareholder value. Previous exploration on the Callanquitas Structure discovered a significant Inferred gold and silver resource: 7,189,000 tonnes grading 1.94 gpt gold and 71.8 gpt silver containing 448,500 ounces of gold and 16,600,000 ounces of silver at a cutoff grade of 1.5 gpt gold equivalent. Included within this resource estimate is a higher grade zone consisting of 2,730,000 tonnes grading 2.73 gpt gold and 119.1 gpt silver containing 239,400 ounces of gold and 10,500,000 ounces of silver using a 3.0 gpt gold equivalent cutoff grade (Please see Technical Report, amended September 27, 2013, available on the Companys website or SEDAR). Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the mineral resource will be converted into mineral reserves. All scientific and technical information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Quentin J. Browne, P.Geo., Independent Consulting Geologist to PPX Mining Corp., who is a qualified person under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101. On behalf of the Board of Directors Brian J. Maher President and Chief Executive Officer FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: PPX Mining Corp. Brian J. Maher, President and Chief Executive Officer Phone: 1-530-913-4728 Email: brian.maher@ppxmining.com Website: www.ppxmining.com Cautionary Statement: Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain disclosure in this release, may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Canadian securities legislation. In making the forward-looking statements in this release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable. However, the forward-looking statements in this release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and risks are detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the appropriate securities commissions, and may include, among others, market conditions, and delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required regulatory approvals or financing. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. To view this press release as a PDF file, click onto the following link:public://news_release_pdf/PPXOct172017.pdfSource: PPX Mining Corp. (TSX Venture:PPX) To follow PPX Mining Corp. on your favorite social media platform or financial websites, please click on the icons below. Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2017 Filing Services Canada Inc. Coeur Mining Inc. (Coeur or the Company) (NYSE: CDE) today announced that it has closed the acquisition of privately-owned JDS Silver Holdings, Ltd. and its wholly-owned subsidiary JDS Silver Inc. (collectively, JDS Silver), which owns the high-grade Silvertip Mine (Silvertip) in northern British Columbia, by way of the previously announced arrangement (the Arrangement). We are excited about the impact Silvertip is expected to have on our production, margins, and cash flow beginning next year. We are also pleased to now have a presence in mining-friendly British Columbia and look forward to building upon the strong government and community partnerships already in place, said Mitchell J. Krebs, Coeur's President and Chief Executive Officer. Over the coming weeks and months, we plan to make meaningful investments at Silvertip to position it as a significant and sustainable cornerstone asset within our portfolio of operating mines. Coeur Mining's decision to invest here demonstrates that companies believe British Columbia is a good jurisdiction to invest in mining," said British Columbia Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Michelle Mungall. "Our government is committed to strengthening mining in this province to ensure companies like Coeur Mining continue to invest here, creating more good jobs for British Columbians. Ruby Johnny, Chief of Dease River First Nation and member of the Kaska Dena Council Board of Directors, added, I would like to congratulate Coeur Mining on the acquisition of JDS Silver. The Silvertip Mine has provided many benefits to the Kaska which include employment, contracting opportunities and an economic agreement. We have established an excellent working relationship with JDS Silver and our hope is to continue and grow this relationship with Coeur Mining the new owner of the Silvertip Mine. Pursuant to the Arrangement, Coeur acquired all issued and outstanding common shares of JDS Silver Holdings, Ltd. for consideration of approximately US$147.5 million in cash and US$37.5 million in Coeur common stock, and assumed approximately US$15 million of existing debt. The cash consideration was funded with US$100 million of borrowings under the Companys revolving credit facility as well as cash on hand. Upon closing of the Arrangement, the Company issued approximately 4.19 million new Coeur shares to former holders of JDS Silver, who now own approximately 2.3% of Coeurs issued and outstanding shares on an undiluted basis. Additional consideration of up to US$50 million is payable contingent upon the achievement of specific future permitting and exploration milestones at Silvertip. Any such contingent consideration will be paid in cash and in common stock. This contingent consideration and other matters are described more fully in the Arrangement Agreement dated September 10, 2017. Coeurs legal advisor was Goodmans LLP and its financial advisors were Sprott Capital Partners and BMO Capital Markets. Blake, Cassels & Gordon acted as legal advisor to JDS Silver and Maxit Capital acted as JDS Silvers financial advisor. About Coeur Coeur Mining Inc. is a well-diversified, growing precious metals producer with six mines in the Americas employing approximately 2,300 people. Coeurs wholly-owned operations include the Palmarejo silver-gold complex in Mexico, the Silvertip silver-zinc-lead mine in British Columbia, the Rochester silver-gold mine in Nevada, the Kensington gold mine in Alaska, the Wharf gold mine in South Dakota, and the San Bartolome silver mine in Bolivia. In addition, the Company owns the La Preciosa project in Mexico, a silver-gold exploration stage project. Coeur conducts exploration activities in North and South America. Cautionary Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of securities legislation in the United States and Canada, including statements regarding the anticipated results of the Silvertip acquisition and any additional transaction consideration, anticipated investments in Silvertip, and anticipated Silvertip production, margins, and cash flow. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause Coeur's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the risk that anticipated benefits of the Silvertip acquisition, anticipated investments in Silvertip, and anticipated Silvertip production, margins, cash flow, and other anticipated operating parameters are not attained, the risks and hazards inherent in the mining business (including risks inherent in developing large-scale mining projects, environmental hazards, industrial accidents, weather or geologically related conditions), changes in the market prices of gold, silver, zinc, and lead, and a sustained lower price environment, the uncertainties inherent in Coeur's production, exploratory and developmental activities, including risks relating to permitting and regulatory delays, ground conditions, grade variability, any future labor disputes or work stoppages, the uncertainties inherent in the estimation of resources, changes that could result from Coeur's future acquisition of new mining properties or businesses, the loss of any third-party smelter to which Coeur markets commodities, the effects of environmental and other governmental regulations, the risks inherent in the ownership or operation of or investment in mining properties or businesses in foreign countries, the political risks and uncertainties associated with operations in Bolivia, Coeur's ability to raise additional financing necessary to conduct its business, make payments or refinance its debt, as well as other uncertainties and risk factors set out in filings made from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Canadian securities regulators, including, without limitation, Coeur's most recent reports on Form 10-K or Form 10-Q. Actual results, developments and timetables could vary significantly from the estimates presented. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Coeur disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additionally, Coeur undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of Coeur, its financial or operating results or its securities. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006844/en/ Contact Coeur Mining Inc. 104 S. Michigan Avenue, Suite 900 Chicago, Illinois 60603 Attention: Courtney Lynn, Vice President, Investor Relations and Treasurer Phone: (312) 489-5800 www.coeur.com LAS CRUCES, N.M. The University of New Mexico volleyball team dropped a Rio Grande Rivalry match to New Mexico State Monday evening, falling in straight sets by scores of 25-18, 25-16, 28-26. Despite 15 kills from Lauren Twitty and a seven-kill, 10-dig performance from Hailey Rubino, the Lobos (11-10) struggled to convert against the Aggies (14-7) and their block inside the Pan American Center. Twitty led New Mexicos offense with 15 kills, but hit .167 with eight errors on a match-high 42 attempts. She was the only Lobo with double-digit kills, with Rubino and Mariessa Carrasco (four kills) also contributing to UNMs attack. As a team, New Mexico hit .102, with 33 kills and 21 errors on 118 attempts. Ashley Kelsey finished with a team-high 12 digs, with Rubino also in double figures. Twitty added nine digs, while Mercedes Pacheco and Carson Heilborn chipped in seven each. Three Lobos finished with three blocks, including Carrasco, Heilborn and Victoria Spragg. Both teams opened the match evenly as neither side posted much of a lead early. New Mexico State would go up 6-2 to start, but a 7-3 spurt for the Lobos gave them the advantage at 10-9. Each side would then trade points en route to a tie at 16-16. However, the Aggies would take control, scoring nine of the final 11 points for a 25-18 set win. Twitty logged five kills in the set, but UNM hit just a .026 rate (9-8-38) as a team. The second set started much like the first ended as New Mexico State raced out to an 8-1 lead. New Mexico would notch a 6-1 run to cut its deficit to four points at 14-10, but the Lobos would get no closer as the Aggies answered with their own 6-1 run to go up 20-11. UNM made it a six-point game at 21-15, but NM State finished with four of the final five points of the set to win the set 25-16. New Mexicos block came to play in the second frame with four total blocks. But UNM hit .000 in the set (8-8-37), with four kills from Twitty and three from Carrasco. The Lobos made a bit of a comeback to start the third set, taking an 11-7 lead on the Aggies. But NM State would reel off a 7-1 run to take a two-point lead at 17-15, holding that until New Mexico scored four in a row to go up 23-21. However, New Mexico State tallied the next three points to get a match-point opportunity at 24-23 before UNM scored two straight for a set-point chance at 25-24. But the Aggies would tie the set up at 25 and, after a final Lobo point, scored the final three points for a 28-26 win. UNM managed to outhit NM State in the set, .256 to .204, but the Aggies block again proved problematic for UNM with four blocks. Twitty had six kills in the set, with Rubino adding four. The Lobos return to action on Thursday as they return to Mountain West play against Wyoming. First serve is schedule for 7 p.m. MT in Johnson Center. Fans can follow @UNMLoboVB on Twitter and Instagram for information and updates on the team! JavaScript is disabled on your browser. CORDIS website requires JavaScript enabled in order to work properly. Please enable JavaScript. Sweeping changes recommended for Kentucky's public pension systems would cost taxpayers and public employees more money while making public employment far less attractive to future generations, according to a report released Monday.In the report, Colorado-based consultant Pension Trustee Advisors said ideas put forward by Republican Gov. Matt Bevin's advisers at the PFM Group in August would only worsen Kentucky's pension mess. Specifically, PTA said, Kentucky should not switch from a defined-benefits pension for state employees and school teachers to a defined-contribution 401(k) account that might run dry while many of them are still alive."Under the proposed analysis, which is based on optimistic returns, well over half of the individuals will run out of money," William "Flick" Fornia, an actuary who founded PTA in 2010, wrote in the report.PTA was hired to examine the PFM Group's recommendations by two groups critical of those proposals, the Kentucky Public Pension Coalition and the Kentucky Retired Teachers Association.Although the Bevin administration paid the PFM Group nearly $1.2 million for its advice, Republican lawmakers meeting privately with Bevin to draw up a bill for a special legislative session on pensions have said that not everything the PFM Group suggested will be included.A spokesperson for Bevin did not respond Monday to a request for comment about the report by Pension Trustee Advisors.The crux of the PFM Group's proposals -- that it would be cheaper to provide public employees with largely self-financed defined-contribution accounts -- isn't accurate, Fornia wrote.For one thing, he said, either the state of Kentucky will have to spend millions of dollars every year to cover the new costs of Social Security for school teachers or else it will have to force that burden onto local school districts. At present, teachers get pensions, and they are excluded by law from Social Security withholding.Changing to 401(k) accounts would also cost the state more than maintaining the model it has used since January 2014, which is known as a hybrid cash-balance plan, Fornia wrote. Under the PFM Group's proposals, Kentucky simultaneously would have to pay down tens of billions of dollars in unfunded pension liability from past years as well as the higher administrative costs and investment fees associated with defined-contribution plans, Fornia wrote."The proposed plan for future employees quite simply is more expensive," Fornia wrote. "There is no savings to Kentucky or its public workers from the proposed changes."From the viewpoint of public employees, the loss of pensions means an end to financially secure retirements, Fornia wrote. Even if state workers and school teachers contribute the maximum sums allowed to their 401(k) account every pay period and enjoy an unbroken string of good fortune in their stock market investments, which seems doubtful, they are likely to run out of money if they survive into their 80s, he wrote.The change also would end the disability pensions that thousands of injured or sickened public employees in Kentucky have used to retire early when medically necessary, Fornia said. Under the model proposed by the PFM Group, future workers would be left with no such safety net.Finally, Fornia challenged the idea that defined-benefits pensions don't work. They work fine when you pay the bills on time, he wrote. Fiscally prudent states that properly funded their retirement systems, such as South Dakota, Oregon, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Tennessee and New York, aren't struggling today. But Kentucky governors and legislators failed for most of the last two decades to adequately fund the state's two major pension systems, leading to the massive shortfalls the state faces now, Fornia wrote."It is disingenuous to simply conclude that defined-benefit programs are inherently not sustainable," he wrote. The Maine Legislature is again wrestling with how to implement, delay or repeal a law passed by voters last November that made Maine the first in the nation to approve a statewide ranked choice voting system for the Legislature, the governor's office and members of Congress.The law would first be implemented for the June 2018 primary election. But last May the state's Supreme Judicial Court issued an advisory opinion to the state Senate saying that if ranked choice voting were used in the general election for governor or members of the Legislature, the results could be challenged in the courts because the system violates the Maine constitution.On Monday, the Legislature's Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee was taking public testimony on a bill that would implement the parts of the law that did not raise constitutional concerns, while delaying the other portions of the law until voters could be asked to amend the constitution.The hearing attracted a large turnout, included advocates for the new bill, leaders of the campaign that put the ranked choice system on the ballot, state lawmakers and a number of citizens.Former state Sen. Dick Woodbury, a Falmouth independent, urged the committee to adopt the new bill in order to protect the constitutional portions of the ballot measure that voters endorsed.Woodbury pointed out that the ballot measure received the second largest number of votes of any statewide ballot measure during an election that saw a 73 percent voter turnout -- the largest in Maine history.He said those backing the measure were largely Maine people and not "monied interests" from outside of the state."This was the most respectful, deliberative and pure exercise of American democracy that I have ever seen," Woodbury said of the November 2016 vote.Opponents of the shift say implementing parts of the law would be costly and confusing to voters. Lawmakers were unable to agree on amending the law during their past law-making session, which ended in August. But they are expected to try again during an upcoming special legislative session on Oct. 23. Right to Water? In the city of LaGrange, Georgia, an immigrant from Mexico lives with his young family. Hes been living there for 10 years. Hes a homeowner. He doesnt have a green card, so he doesnt have a Social Security number.Without the Social Security number, the homeowner cant get utility services in his name, even though he has a Mexican passport and an individual taxpayer identification number from the Internal Revenue Service. (To protect him, his lawyer does not want to disclose his immigration status.) The city, which is the sole provider of utilities, requires that anyone opening an account have two things: a Social Security number and a government-issued photo ID.So the immigrant relies on a friend, who opens an account for the man in his own name. In doing so, both men risk being prosecuted for fraud.Dozens of cities and counties around the country require anyone who wants to open a public utility account lights, gas, water, phone to provide a Social Security number, government-issued ID or some form of proof they are in the country legally.For some immigrants this is all but impossible, even if they are in the country legally, leaving them with few options, immigration rights advocates say. They can ask the landlord to open the utility account in the landlords name, but that can severely limit their housing options. Like the homeowner in LaGrange, they can ask a friend or relative with a Social Security number to open the account and risk prosecution. Or they can move to another city.Its hard to know exactly how many cities have adopted these policies. Areview of more than two dozen city utilities found the municipalities that do require a Social Security number to open an account have several things in common: Theyre smaller cities that usually provide all or some of their municipalitys utilities, and they are primarily located in the South, Arizona and Texas although at least one urban, Northern city, Detroit, requires a Social Security number and government-issued ID to open a water account.In May, the Georgia NAACP, the National Immigration Law Center, Project South, and other advocacy groups, filed a class action lawsuit against LaGrange alleging that by restricting access to utilities, the citys policies make it difficult or impossible for some of the Citys most economically disadvantaged residents to live in LaGrange, disproportionately harming Latinos and African-Americans. LaGrange also attaches unpaid court fines to residents utility accounts, a practice that is also part of the class action suit. (The immigrant who cannot get utilities in his name is a plaintiff in the suit, identified as John Doe#3.)In its motion for dismissal of the case, the city said that it did not intend for its policies to have a discriminatory effect and that the mayor and city council adopted rational and reasonable requirements intended to protect the city coffers.Anyone opening a water account in Augusta, Georgia, needs to provide both picture ID and proof of Social Security number. In Alabama, the city of Dothan requires a state ID to open a utility account and to get that identification, a resident must prove he or she is in the country legally and has a Social Security number.Florence, Alabama, requires a valid drivers license or state ID and a Social Security number to open a utility account in order to get electricity, gas, water and garbage services in the city. A Social Security number also is required to get water, gas or electricity in Dunlap, Tennessee, a small city in the Sequatchie Valley.Louisville, Kentuckys water, electric and gas companies require a Social Security number, as do the public utilities in Temple, Texas, a former railroad town about an hour outside of Austin. In Arizona, the city of Gilbert requires a Social Security number as well.Housing and immigration lawyers say these requirements discriminate against immigrants and violate both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Privacy Act of 1974, depriving immigrants of their human rights. In court records, city officials argue theyre just trying to prevent fraud.This has huge implications, said Atteeyah Hollie, staff attorney for the Southern Center for Human Rights, an Atlanta-based organization that provides legal representation to poor people accused of crimes, and is one of the groups suing the city of LaGrange. Theyre making it impossible for [immigrants] to have basic services so they can live there. The effect is to tell certain immigrants, You cant live here. The LaGrange policies dont discriminate against immigrants, according to Andrew Arthur, a resident fellow in law and policy for the Center for Immigration Studies, a research and advocacy group for limiting immigration.The policies are facially neutral and legitimate because of the interest in the municipality of obtaining payment for the services that it provides, Arthur said.LaGrange Mayor Jim Thornton declined to comment, citing the ongoing litigation. The citys attorney, Jeff Todd, said city officials felt strongly that the Social Security requirement was an important tool to prevent fraud and had nothing to do with a residents immigration status.The plaintiffs legitimately despise the policy choices. Theyre attempting to make a novel stretch under the Fair Housing Act to make a policy change, Todd said. We look forward to demonstrating to the court that the policies are even-handed ordinances.An October report by thefound that in some households in the United States, residents face the risk of living without electricity or running water because of their immigration status. (One of the reports authors, Azadeh Shahshahani, is the legal and advocacy director for Project South, one of the LaGrange plaintiffs.)The American Public Power Association, an Arlington, Virginia-based trade group that represents nonprofit, community-owned utilities around the country, including in LaGrange, declined to comment for this story. Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh, president of the Alabama Public Service Commission, which regulates utility companies in the state, also declined to comment. Other utility groups did not respond to requests for comment.Justin Cox, an Atlanta attorney with the National Immigration Law Center, who is also part of the LaGrange lawsuit, said hes represented a number of clients in roughly a dozen Southern cities in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee who couldnt get utilities because they didnt have a Social Security number. He said that every time he called the city and told them they were breaking the law with this requirement, they always cave.I was playing Whack-A-Mole, Cox said. Our hope is with this case, we can send a message to other utility providers, if they dont change their policy, theyll be next. In 2011, then-Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley, a Republican, signed a sweeping immigration law believed to be the toughest in the nation.Many municipal utilities werent clear whether they could cut off services to residents who couldnt prove they were in the country legally, said Grace Meng, an immigration attorney and senior researcher with the nonprofit Human Rights Watch. In 2011, Meng wrote a report looking at the impact of the Alabama immigration law.Her report found that the law encouraged local and state officials to deny immigrants without legal documentation access to water and housing. One woman in the report left Alabama shortly after the law was passed after her landlord announced that residents would need a Social Security number in order to get water and electricity.Mengs investigation also found that some public utilities, including in the cities of Dothan and Decatur, required either government-issued ID or a Social Security before the law passed, documentation that is all but impossible for many immigrants. (Both cities still have those requirements in place.)Other municipalities appear to be unclear about what federal law requires.In Calhoun, Georgia, for example, the public utilitys website says that in order to open an account, applicants are required by federal law to provide a Social Security number, citing the Federal Trade Commissions Red Flags Rule, intended to prevent identity theft.But when contacted by, Larry Vickery, the utilitys planning director, said that the city never had required a Social Security number and only requires two forms of identification, including a photo ID such as employee ID and accepts credit cards as documentation. He said he did not know what the Red Flags Rule was.The Red Flags Rule, first implemented by the Federal Trade Commission in 2007 and amended in 2010, requires many businesses and organizations to implement a written identity theft program to detect the warning signs, or red flags, of possible fraud. But the rule only applies to businesses that defer payment for goods and services or extend credit. And they have to use credit reporting agencies to either obtain or report information.But, said Tiffany George, senior attorney in the FTCs Division of Privacy and Identity Protection, the FTC does not have a requirement of collecting Social Security numbers. She said she was not aware of communities that were confused about the rules and did not want to comment on specific cases.When contacted again by, Vickery said that the city of Calhoun was revising its website to be clear that a Social Security number isnt mandatory to open a utility account and that the city would accept other forms of identification, such as a passport even a Mexican passport, he said.He said Calhoun is an industrial city with a relatively large immigrant population. We want to be accommodating, Vickery said. We werent aware that we were doing anything wrong. In advance of Thursday's appearance by alt-right leader Richard Spencer on the University of Florida campus, Gov. Rick Scott has declared a state of emergency for Alachua County.The declaration is needed to help local law enforcement and state agencies keep the peace, after prior Spencer speaking engagements in Alabama, California, Texas and Virginia have "sparked protests and counter-protests resulting in episodes of violence, civil unrest and multiple arrests," reads the governor's order, issued Monday.The order puts the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the state's Diversion of Emergency Management in charge.Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell made the request to the governor to assist with local law enforcement efforts.In a prepared statement, the governor was quoted: "We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion, however, we have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority. I have been in constant contact with Sheriff Darnell who has requested this Executive Order to ensure that county and local law enforcement have every needed resource. This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe."Organizers of the "no Nazi" group gathered on the UF campus Monday morning to ask UF President Kent Fuchs to not allow Spencer's group to speak at the Phillips Center Thursday. Students have gathered petition signatures asking for the group be denied a forum and area faith leaders are scheduled to meet early Monday evening to suggest that people not attend or protest the speech, but instead to find other ways to make their feelings known -- from a safe distance.UF and city officials have asked people to stay away from the protest area in hopes that the event won't make headlines.Spencer's organization, the National Policy Institute, has focused efforts on college campuses, where he hopes to expand his base of supporters.The 39-year-old says he isn't a racist, but doesn't believe in equality and wants to expand white privilege to ensure that future generations grow up in a majority white society.Spencer's group has tried to take advantage of public universities that face a high legal hurdle in denying him, and where he is guaranteed controversy that gets him in front of TV cameras and onto the front pages of newspapers. He hopes next to speak at Ohio State University and the University of Cincinnati, and has threatened to sue if not permitted.UF officials have said they expect to shoulder more than $500,000 in security costs that, based a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, can't be billed to the groups that create the security need. Description GIS - 17 October, 2017: The setting up of a ChinaAfrica Civil Aviation Academy in Mauritius will address the present shortfall in training capacity in Africa as well as in the region. It will also cater for high skilled personnel which in turn will help the aviation and airport sector in the African region to grow to its full potential. The setting up of a ChinaAfrica Civil Aviation Academy in Mauritius will address the present shortfall in training capacity in Africa as well as in the region. It will also cater for high skilled personnel which in turn will help the aviation and airport sector in the African region to grow to its full potential. This statement was made this morning by the Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, External Communications and National Development Unit, Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, during his keynote address at the opening of the 27th Airports Council International (ACI) Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition which is being held from 16 to 18 October 2017 at the Swami Vivekananda International Conference Centre in Pailles. The Prime Minister pointed out that discussions for the setting up of the Academy are underway with the Government of the Peoples Republic of China. He underlined that the Academy will not only cater for Mauritians aspiring to become aviation professionals but will also offer unique opportunities for African neighbours and for countries in the region. Furthermore, Prime Minister Jugnauth announced that as a first step to enhancing aviation training capabilities, the Airports of Mauritius Co Ltd (AML) Aviation Training Centre at the airport has recently secured the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Trainair Plus Certification and has thus joined the acclaimed international network of ICAO approved aviation training institutions. He stated that Government is continuously working towards making the national airline stronger and more resilient to face challenges ahead. He announced that the national carrier, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, will be welcoming its first Airbus A350-900 this week. This is the first of six new generation aircrafts being delivered to the airline as part of its expansion and fleet renewal strategy, he said. Furthermore, he emphasised that with the additional seat capacity and other benefits offered by these modern aircrafts, Air Mauritius will be in a better position to increase its frequencies to existing destinations but also to explore new routes. Speaking about the success of good airlines which relies heavily on the effectiveness of the airports servicing them, the Prime Minister reiterated Governments commitment to ensure that the airport and its associated infrastructure are ready to support the aspirations of the country. Several initiatives have been put in place to that end. They include: extension of the airport terminal facilities; review and update the Airport Master Plan; construction of an Integrated Clearance Centre for the prompt processing and clearance of transiting goods; implementation of the speed to market initiative whereby Government can cover for up to 40% of air freight costs for the export of locally manufactured products; enhancing ease of doing business and promotion of the continuous upgrading of the skills and knowledge of the workforce. For his part, the Chairman of AML, Mr Johnny Dumazel, stated that airports are drivers of growth and modernisation as well as symbols of growth. Hence the need, he said, to ensure resilience of operations and facilities. He added that airports are continuously facing challenges such as security, rapid technological evolution, high cost of developing innovative services, environment impact of operations, and airport maintenance and modernisation. These factors, he added, need to be taken into consideration when developing policies for the airport sector to be dynamic and resilient. ACI World director general, Ms Angela Gittens, reflected on the role played by airports in the socioeconomic growth of a country. Speaking about traffic volumes, Ms Gittens underlined that passenger and cargo travel processes will need to change dramatically in the near and distant future in light of projected air traffic growth. ACI World forecasts that traffic volumes will exceed 40 billion passengers and 145 million tonnes of cargo by 2029, meaning that airports, airlines and their contractors and suppliers will increasingly be challenged to optimise the use of emerging technologies, processes and design developments, she said. Airports will also need to continuously improve their service level, she concluded. The 27th ACI Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition The Conference brings together around 500 airport industry leaders from more than 70 countries, focusing on topics of high interest shaping the way in which the airport industry is quickly evolving. Some of the Conferences key topics include: Creating a strong security culture; Transforming the journey through technology and innovation; Connectivity and sustainable tourism; Customer experience and Airport Service Quality. The theme chosen is Bold leadership in a time of change. It recognises that whatever the set of changes, airports play a crucial role in the economic and social health of communities, countries, regions and the world at large, and they must craft a strategy for their sustainable development to continue providing those benefits. Description GIS 17 October, 2017: Poverty concerns each and every citizen of the country and Government is committed to do its best to eradicate absolute poverty with the help of the private sector and NGOs. Social projects in education, health and environment sectors will help to attain Governments objectives, which are in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This statement was made this morning by the Minister of Social Integration and Economic Empowerment, Mr Alain Wong, at the launching ceremony of the Community Working Group (CWG) for Grand-Port and Savanne districts at Holiday Inn Hotel, Plaine Magnien. This event was organised at the initiative of the National Empowerment Foundation (NEF) in the context of the celebration of International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2017. The Chief Administrator of the NEF, Mr Clive Auffray; the CSR Manager of ENL Foundation, Mr. Mario Radegonde; the Group Chief Sustainability Officer of Omnicane Ltd, Mr Rajiv Ramlugon; and other personalities were also present on that occasion. In his address, Minister Wong highlighted that the main objective of the CWG is to bring all stakeholders namely the civil service as well as the public and private sectors together to brainstorm, discuss and implement projects with regards to poverty alleviation. The CWG also aims to design a plan of intervention, provide technical support and mobilise resources from stakeholders for interventions based on needs of families in Municipal Ward/Village Council Areas (MVCAs) as well as to implement projects with a holistic approach in the targeted MVCAs. Coordinating the participation of all stakeholders in the eradication of absolute poverty also falls under the mandate of CWG. The Minister underscored that the CWG will have an integrated community-based approach to service delivery for social inclusion of vulnerable families. He also pointed out that the CWG will be the implementing arm for a holistic community development approach, thus preventing any form of distorted development in different parts of the country. Mr Wong further underlined that several projects will be implemented in short and long term basis, such as recreational activities, remedial classes, renovation of kindergartens, training and placement of youth, construction of integrated social houses, and construction of nurseries for children from vulnerable families. For their part, the CSR Manager of ENL Foundation and the Group Chief Sustainability Officer of Omnicane Ltd commended the NEF for this laudable initiative and reassured their unflinching support to the Ministry of Social Integration and Economic Empowerment in the fight against absolute poverty. Description GIS - 17 October, 2017: The Government has at heart the well-being of its citizens and conforming to this, the Ministry of Housing and Lands is working towards improving the living conditions of those who are socially disadvantaged. This in turn will help attaining development goals to scale up economic growth. The Government has at heart the well-being of its citizens and conforming to this, the Ministry of Housing and Lands is working towards improving the living conditions of those who are socially disadvantaged. This in turn will help attaining development goals to scale up economic growth. The Vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Housing and Lands, Mr Showkutally Soodhun, made this statement yesterday during a press conference held at Le Sirius, Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel in Port-Louis. Vice-Prime Minister Soodhun highlighted his Ministrys key achievements for the last two years and outlined major projects in the pipeline for 2018-2020. He emphasised that Government has made the welfare of the population a priority by improving the quality of life of all citizens, and in particular uplifting the status of the economically vulnerable population. Hence the need, pointed out Mr Soodhun , to bring forth a series of innovative measures in order to address key priorities such as an increase in the supply of housing units and home ownership for the economically and socially disadvantaged. He pointed out that newly built housing units under the Smart Residence project of the National Housing Development Company (NHDC) , ranging from 50 m to 60 m and comprising of two bedrooms , have been constructed to enable families to live decently with the necessary amenities as well as social and recreational facilities . In this regard, the eligibility criteria for the NHDC housing has been extended to those earning Rs 20 000, so as to ensure that more families can benefit from this scheme, he added. On that note, Vice-Prime Minister Soodhun announced that a total of 11 206 housing units will be built by 2020 to the tune of Rs 17.2 billion. He underlined that from January 2015 to September 2017, 1 063 housing units on 35 sites at the cost Rs 1.1 billion have been built. Currently, 1 520 housing units on 26 sites are being constructed and are expected to be completed in 2018. As for 2018-2019, the construction of 2 173 housing units on 16 sites at the cost of Rs 3.5 billion is in the pipeline. Moreover, he emphasised that the project Longeres Tole at Baie du Tombeau aims to address the alarming situation of families living in deplorable conditions. To this end, Government is investing in the construction of 150 concrete housing units with the necessary amenities at the cost of Rs 225 millions. Description GIS 17 October 2017 : The winners of the French, English and Mauritian Creole Dictation Competitions were announced at a ceremony held today at the Municipal Hall in Port Louis. The competitions were organised by the Adult Literacy Unit of the National Womens Council for its trainees in the context of the International Day of Literacy 2017. Shields and certificates were presented by the Minister of Gender Equality, Child Development and Family Welfare, Mrs Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, to Ms Laura Sandian, Ms Soomungul Sakoontala Rampher, and Ms Bibi Nooroon Nessa Heenaye, first prize winners of the French, English and Mauritian Creole Dictation Competitions, respectively. In her address, the Minister underlined the importance of basic literacy in helping people becoming self-reliant and more independent in their daily lives. She stated that the basic literacy courses are not solely about reading, writing and numeracy but they bring together women sharing the common goal of being empowered and better able to contribute to their family welfare. The Minister deplored the socio-cultural practices where parents tend to promote the education of boys to the detriment of girls. Mrs Jeewa-Daureeawoo urged parents to treat girls and boys equally and reiterated her appeal to inculcate the right values in children. The prize giving ceremony was followed by the remittance of certificates to some 47 women who participated in the dictation competitions held in September 2017, and the presentation of tombola prizes. The tombola was organised to raise funds for the Rupees for Solidarity Scheme. The objectives of the Scheme are to provide immediate relief to women in distress, pending their access to other means of social aid, and to strengthen ties between women. The tombola lottery tickets had been sold to members of Womens Associations and an amount of Rs 219 645 had been collected. International Day of Literacy 2017 The International Day of Literacy, which was proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation on 8 September 1965, is celebrated annually to highlight improvements in world literacy rates, and reflect on the world's remaining literacy challenges. In Mauritius, the Adult Literacy Unit of the National Womens Council, operating under the aegis of the Ministry of Gender Equality, Child Development and Family Welfare, runs Adult Literacy Programme to equip women, aged 16 to 80, with basic reading, writing and numeracy skills. The 88-hour programme is dispensed in English, French and Mauritian Creole in Women Empowerment Centres, Social Welfare Centres, and Community Centres. This year, some 700 women are enrolled in the programme. (TNS) With the annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill coming on Thursday, nows a good time to ask yourself: Hows that whole emergency preparedness thing going?Are you feeling twinges of guilt because you still havent stashed away any food, water or spare batteries? Maybe you were patting yourself on the back for your familys three-day supply of provisions and gear until last years Cascadia Rising drill made it clear that folks in Western Washington may have to survive on their own for up to two weeks after a megaquake and tsunami.From hurricanes in Houston and Puerto Rico to deadly earthquakes in Mexico, recent disasters show how long it can take for assistance to arrive and for power, water and transportation to be restored. Victims are left to fend for themselves and help each other in the chaotic aftermath.Gov. Jay Inslee says one of his top earthquake priorities is to teach citizens how to prepare themselves and cope with conditions after the ground stops shaking. But the state has yet to provide any funding for educational outreach.Local emergency management departments do their best to offer training and guidance, but the task is daunting. Seattle has three outreach staff for a city of more than 700,000. In Grays Harbor County on the Washington coast, emergency manager Chuck Wallace runs a 1.5-person shop responsible for an area nearly the size of Delaware.Virtually everyone is going to have to rely on themselves after a major event, Wallace said. We need citizens to step up and help lead the way.Here are the stories of five individuals who have taken up that challenge. Some are helping their own communities get ready, while others are focused on vulnerable groups or evacuating injured people when roads and bridges are in tatters. Something they all have in common is an inability to ignore the threat or leave the job for someone else.I have a hard time passing the buck, said Sky Terry, of Bellingham. If I can do one more thing, and maybe help two more people, I feel like I have the obligation to do it.A nurse and an Army veteran, Terry is the guy who jumps in to rescue a drowning man and who never drives past an accident scene.The human toll from Hurricane Katrina in 2005 hit him like a gut punch, and he was frustrated that he wasnt in a position to help. As he learned about the 700-mile-long offshore fault called the Cascadia Subduction Zone, he realized that Washington was in for an even bigger disaster someday.With bridges, roads and airports unusable, evacuating the injured and delivering water and food will be nearly impossible at first.I wondered if anybody had looked at seaplanes, Terry said.The answer was no. So he set out to recruit pilots and convince emergency managers that civilian aircraft should be integrated into their disaster planning.Private planes were among the first to reach parts of the battered Florida Keys after Hurricane Irma last month, and volunteers are still delivering aid to desperate Puerto Ricans via amphibious aircraft called flying boats.The Cajun navy of bass boats, catamarans and Jet Skis that rushed to rescue Houstonians after Hurricane Harvey illustrates the fact that people always mobilize after a disaster. Organizing and training in advance can make that outpouring of support more effective and less chaotic, Terry said.In Clallam and Jefferson counties on the Olympic Peninsula, where officials expect to be cut off for several weeks after a big quake, emergency planners have embraced the idea. Statewide, more than 40 planes and their owners have participated in exercises or committed to helping during future disasters.During one drill this summer, volunteers loaded mock patients on a floatplane bobbing in the surf. Terry, 41, has even recruited Alaskan and Canadian bush pilots with specialized planes to deliver aviation fuel after a big quake.He does it all in his spare time while juggling a regular job and caring for two small children.There are times when I just want to throw up my hands and say: To hell with this, he admitted. Then he recalls the faces of people hes rescued from car wrecks or brought back from the brink with CPR.When this quake happens, if we dont have a community set up to jump in and help, there are people who arent going to make it who could have, he said. I cant let that go.What do you think an earthquake is? Heather Beal asked a group of toddlers gathered around her at Martha & Mary KIDS Child Care Center in Poulsbo.Several hands shot up.Its a fire, one boy declared, while others nodded in agreement.No one expects 3- and 4-year-olds to be conversant in seismology, but Beal believes theyre not too young to learn about what happens when the ground shakes and what they can do to protect themselves.A former Navy lieutenant commander with a 6-year-old daughter and a 2 1/2-year-old son, Beal started to wonder about preparedness at day cares when she moved with her husband to Bremerton where they plan to retire a year ago.This is earthquake country, and theres a lot of people in denial about that, she said.Licensed day cares must have emergency plans and conduct earthquake and fire drills but many dont have the staff or expertise to test the plans and ensure that theyre practical and workable.Child-care providers are the first responders for our children, Beal said. I want to bridge that gap between emergency management and child-care centers.She wrote a kids book about earthquakes, called Tummy Rumble Quake, to provide an introduction thats educational, but not scary. Through her nonprofit, BLOCKS, she offers readings, like the one in Poulsbo, that double as simple training sessions on the duck-cover-and-hold-on basics.Beal, 46, is also working with day-care centers to help them improve their emergency plans and procedures and start thinking about what it will take to reopen after a quake hits.We all know that if parents dont go back to work, she said, communities dont recover.When an earthquake rocks Washington, the residents of Pacific Regent retirement community in Bellevue will be ready to roll.Teams assigned to each floor of the 18-story high-rise will fan out systematically, knocking on doors, checking on neighbors, and administering first aid. With power and phones knocked out, theyll communicate via two-way radios.Elevators wont work, so theres food stored on every other floor peanut butter, big cans of peaches, dried snacks. If waters in short supply, residents know they can scoop it out of the backs of their toilets.Our philosophy is that we have to be self-sufficient for a minimum of seven days without any outside help, said Stuart Hood, the retired engineer whos largely responsible for the communitys robust state of readiness. Were not all the way there, but were close.Over the past several years, Hood pulled together a disaster-response group that now includes almost a third of the buildings 130 residents. He organized training sessions in emergency medical care and proper search techniques for locating injured people in apartments with dangling light fixtures and broken glass.These are people in their 70s and 80s, said Hood, himself 87. They are really into it.Now, he hopes to spread the message to every retirement and assisted-living community in Bellevue as a volunteer for the citys emergency-management department.In 2015, Pacific Regent was the only retirement community in Bellevue to participate in the Great ShakeOut. Last year there were two.Hoods next goal is to get them all on board.The town of Joyce has 3,500 inhabitants, a general store, a couple of restaurants and some of the most impressive emergency preparations in the state.Perched above the Strait of Juan de Fuca in Clallam County, the tiny community is already accustomed to isolation and frequent power outages. With a major quake expected to knock out bridges on the three roads into town, anyone expecting FEMA to quickly swoop in with food is going to be really hungry, said former State Rep. Jim Buck, who joined with his neighbors to form the group called Joyce Emergency Planning and Preparation.The way I put it is: Youre not going back to the Stone Age, but you are going to back to Little House on the Prairie for a while, said Buck, 69.With the goal of surviving on their own for up to a month, residents pooled their resources, held bake sales and scrounged for donations to stock a shipping container with dehydrated food and emergency supplies.The Red Cross anted up diapers, blankets and 100 cots. A grant from Walmart bought tubs of corn meal and rice. Somebody uncovered a stash of Forest Service sleeping bags that were about to be thrown away.Faced with a $10,000 price tag for a hand-operated water purification system, Buck and JEPP member Terry Barnett built their own with off-the-shelf plumbing supplies, most of them donated.As rural residents, most folks in Joyce are already well-stocked to ride out bad weather and minor disasters, Buck said. The supplies in the container will be there for whoever needs them. Right now, theres enough to feed 100 people for three weeks, and Buck hopes to triple that.The hunt for free or low-cost gear continues as well. Next on the list: surplus military generators and a field kitchen.Jeff Guite is a worrier.He worries about senior citizens and how they will fare in an earthquake. He worries about people who are sick, or dont have enough money to stockpile food. These days, he worries a lot about school kids.A lot of schools have next to nothing in terms of emergency supplies, he said. Were not taking care of our kids.Emergency kits are Guites business. He founded his small, Seattle-area company, American Preparedness, in 1981, after stints in the military and as a Red Cross volunteer.I wanted it to be a social service company, he said. I wanted to be able to do good with the proceeds.One of the main ways Guite, 71, does good is by giving away his products. He donated 1,500 kits to Seattles Meals on Wheels program for seniors. He gave kits to the Chicken Soup Brigade, which provides meals to people living with serious illnesses. Another batch of free kits went to the Seattle Housing Authority, for low-income households.Through his Kits for Kids program, Guites company has been giving kits away to schools for almost 20 years, with the caveat that teachers provide regular emergency preparedness tips to the students.But theres only so much a small business can do.Hed like every child to have at least a three-day supply of food and water and other basics, like a light and a blanket. But no one seems to be making school preparedness a priority.Guite has been lobbying the state PTA to take up the issue, and partnering with foundations and companies to help defray costs and get kits to more kids.But watching the recent earthquakes in Mexico, which collapsed at least one school building, makes him worry even more.We know were going to get hit, he said. Do we have to wait for it to happen to prove how bad its going to be?Sandi Doughton at: 206-464-2491 or sdoughton@seattletimes.com2017 The Seattle TimesVisit The Seattle Times at www.seattletimes.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. (TNS) - The $36.5 billion disaster relief bill passed by the House last week is inadequate," Texas Sen. John Cornyn said Tuesday.Hes now pushing for the Senate to do more for Texas and other storm-ravaged areas as it takes up the emergency spending bill later this week, he said.Cornyn, the No. 2 Republican in the Senate, didn't elaborate what the changes to the bill could entail, saying that's "a work in progress as I speak." The measure could come up for a vote by Friday, he said.Last week, Gov. Greg Abbott slammed the Texas House delegation over the emergency bill, accusing the lawmakers of lacking a "stiff spine" in negotiations over the latest round of relief funding, which omitted his recent $18.7 billion request for Hurricane Harvey-specific aid. The House bill also bypassed a $27 billion request from Florida lawmakers.Some GOP lawmakers bewildered by the unusual attack from a fellow Republican and top state official reached out to House Speaker Paul Ryan for help, while others shot back that Abbotts office has yet to submit necessary documents for the state-specific request and chided him for popping off before reaching out to their offices.Ryan pledged to take up the Texas request as soon as November, but many lawmakers argued the state would benefit from this emergency spending bill in the short term.The measure, which all but six Texans voted to support, would replenish the Federal Emergency Management Agencys near-depleted coffers and forgive $16 billion in National Flood Insurance Program debt, enabling the federal program to pay flood claims.Texas stands to receive $15 billion from the measure, about $11 billion in anticipated flood claims and $4 billion in FEMA disaster relief dollars, according to figures released last week by Reps. John Culberson, John Carter and Kay Granger, Republicans who sit on the House Appropriations Committee."Our top priority is to make sure money doesn't run out in the next few weeks for Texas homeowners eager to rebuild their homes, as well as communities counting on FEMA funding for temporary housing, debris removal and infrastructure repairs for roads and schools," the trio said in a written statement last week, pledging to work with Abbott on "long-term recovery needs for Texas" that could exceed $100 billion.2017 The Dallas Morning NewsVisit The Dallas Morning News at www.dallasnews.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. (TNS) -- A majority of Pennsylvania school districts are concerned about cybersecurity but say they don't have enough resources to prepare for potential breaches, concluded a statewide survey released Thursday by state Auditor General Eugene DePasquale.While a lot of attention, rightly so, is being put on the data breach at Equifax, we cannot ignore the cybersecurity needs of our school districts and local government offices, DePasquale said in a statement Western Pennsylvania school districts have been preparing for possible cybersecurity attacks with backup networks, cyber liability insurance packages and making sure they are up-to-date on security software.October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.The concern grows more deeply ever year, said Scott Gutowski, information and technology officer for Pittsburgh Public Schools, who oversees more than 28,000 students in 65 schools. It is something that we constantly have to evaluate.DePasquale's office conducted the anonymous survey over three weeks in August and September. It received 954 responses from 177 school officials and 777 municipal officials.More than two-thirds of respondents said they do not employ or consult a cybersecurity professional.Of 113 school districts represented, 87 percent said they were concerned about cybersecurity, 87 percent said they expect cybersecurity risks to increase and 81 percent said they needed more resources to combat cybersecurity challenges.DePasquale said the findings should be a wake-up call. He called for increased state aid, including funding, a resource center and a state agency assigned to assist during emergencies.Potential breaches could affect everything from internal personnel data, such as Social Security numbers and tax information, to student records, including grades and special-needs education plans.It is a huge priority, said Jon Amelio, chief technology officer for Allegheny Intermediate Unit, which provides support to 42 school districts countywide (not including Pittsburgh Public). There's a lot at risk at the district levels.For districts with a high population of low-income students, a key piece to subsidizing cybersecurity measures has been the federal School and Libraries program , also known as E-rate. E-rate is an effort under the FCC to provide schools with telecommunications and information services at cheaper-than-market rates. The program provides discounts using a sliding scale based on each district's percentage of students who qualify for free- or reduced-priced lunches.Pittsburgh Public gets a 90 percent discount, Gutowski said. Last year, the district spent $2.3 million in E-rate funding, which meant it had to provide a match of $230,000.The E-rate program dates to 1997, and for the first several years most districts used the discounts primarily on the likes of increasing bandwidth and wireless internet capability. Gutowski said the program increasingly is being used instead for cyber protection.Several districts in Western Pennsylvania were affected by a data breach in 2016 , when a Franklin Regional student launched a series of cyber attacks against more than a dozen school districts, the Catholic diocese and Westmoreland County government.Brandon Wagner, director of technology at Hempfield Area School District, said the attack prompted his district to set up a secondary network as a backup in case the first goes down. The district also has a more robust antivirus system and is improving processes for backing up data.We're constantly making changes, constantly making improvements, he said. We have to.Chris Suppo, coordinator of technology with Greensburg Salem School District, said last year's student hack didn't have negative effects on them and has not led to any changes in the district's cybersecurity practices.The district takes standard precautions to protect its computer systems by regularly updating its computers' operating systems, installing antivirus software and keeping staff computers on a separate network from those used by students.Beyond that, Greensburg Salem regularly informs employees about potential cyber threats such as phishing and ransomware attacks.A lot of it is really educating users, Suppo said. They're the first and best line of defense.Pittsburgh Public urges employees and students to be good digital citizens. The district strives to explain the significance of digital footprints and share tips for protecting personal information, including refraining from sharing logins and passwords with friends.Freeport Area School District added a cyber liability policy to its insurance coverage this year, said Business Manager Ryan Manzer. The district has been targeted in cybersecurity attacks but not impacted by one yet.If we did have a breach, we know that the policies and procedures as far as protecting employee data and helping our employees through that recovery process, he said.Manzer said Freeport Area would be happy to partner with local universities to help prevent cybersecurity breaches.We're certainly always open to those partnerships, he said.Staff writer Jamie Martines contributed. Emily Balser and Natasha Lindstrom are Tribune-Review staff writers. Reach Balser at 724-226-4680, emilybalser@tribweb.com or on Twitter @emilybalser. Reach Lindstrom at 412-380-8514, nlindstrom@tribweb.com or on Twitter @NewsNatasha. Yusuke Hasegawa admits some of his colleagues at Honda did not appreciate Fernando Alonso's forthright criticism. After three uncompetitive and unreliable years, the McLaren-Honda partnership will be disbanded after next month's 2017 finale in Abu Dhabi. Honda F1 boss Hasegawa admits it was three years of high pressure, with Spaniard Alonso applying some of that pressure himself. "Alonso always came to put pressure on me," the Japanese told El Confidencial newspaper. "If the car was bad, he had no qualms about telling me he was not happy. "But he is a good person and he probably felt very bad about having to scold me. But he had to, because he wanted everything to be right," Hasegawa told the Spanish publication. Hasegawa denied paddock claims that Alonso is "too political" a driver. "No, not at all," he said. "Alonso criticised us because he was not satisfied, as he had every right. "There are people at Honda who were not happy with Alonso's attitude, but for me it was not a problem. "I am personally very disappointed that I did not give him a good engine, but here in F1 it is difficult for everyone to be happy. "Because he was not happy, it is very difficult to establish a good working relationship," Hasegawa added. "But of course it was not personal. "Alonso did his job, as he was a good professional. But drivers are very emotional guys and you have to understand when they behave like that," he said. "If he had the best car, would he be happy? Yes, and that is why we cannot complain." Honda is now moving to the Red Bull junior team Toro Rosso, and both sides are confident 2018 will mark the beginning of a more successful time. "Honda's expectations were so, so high," Hasegawa said of the McLaren-Honda partnership. "That was our big mistake. "We were too ambitious, and actually we were not ready in 2015. "But Honda's identity is to always fight, never give up, and if it was different we would leave F1," he said. (GMM) Daniil Kvyat's F1 return this weekend could be fleeting. The Russian was recently stepped down by Toro Rosso team owner Red Bull, making way for the debut of Frenchman Pierre Gasly. But as Gasly heads to Japan this weekend to fight for the Super Formula title, Kvyat is returning to action. He will be teamed in Austin by Le Mans winner Brendon Hartley, who is replacing the Renault-bound Carlos Sainz. But there are rumours that after Austin, when Gasly returns from Japan, New Zealander Hartley could stay at Toro Rosso for the rest of 2017. "I do not understand the political games of formula one very well," Boris Shulmeystera, a Russian motor racing promoter, told Championat. "But judging from what is known, I do worry about Daniil," he said. "It is a pity that such a talented driver is first transferred from the senior to the junior team, and from then on his quest for survival began." (GMM) CID Case Delays Revanth Entry Into Cong? Telangana Telugu Desam Party working president and Kodangal MLA A Revanth Reddy is eagerly looking forward to join the Congress party to take on Telangana Rashtra Samithi president K Chandrasekhar Rao, but he seems to be afraid of the cash-for-vote case hanging on his head. Revanth made a surprise appearance in Delhi on Monday leading to the speculations that he might meet Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, apart from other senior Congress leaders. It is not exactly known who he had met, but sources said he had some personal issues to be sorted out in Delhi. He, however, told a section of media that he was still in the TDP as of now, though he was getting the offers from the Congress party. Though our party president N Chandrababu Naidu assured me that no decision will be taken against my wishes with regard to forging alliances in Telangana in 2019 polls, he is under pressure from some of our party seniors to join hands with the TRS, he said. Revanth said he had kept his options open and would take a decision with regard to his political future, depending on future political developments. Apparently, the MLA is apprehensive that if quits the TDP and join the TRS right away, chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao might revive the cash-for-note case and put him in trouble. However, it would also mean troubling Naidu. Perhaps, the Congress leadership also asked him to wait for some time till the case is settled. The US State Department, which bears the responsibility for approving cross-border energy projects, said that Enbridge can indeed proceed with its plan under authority granted by previously issued permits. Enbridge has devised a way to ship more oil sands crude from Alberta to the US via its Alberta Clipper pipeline without getting further tangled in the type of review that has kept TransCanadas Keystone XL pipeline proposal mired in limbo for years: switching crude from one pipeline in its existing system to another before it crosses the border and then back again. Enbridge says it operates the largest, longest, and most complex petroleum pipeline system in the world: approximately 25,420 kilometers (15,795 miles) of pipe delivers an average of more than 2.2-million barrels per day of crude oil and liquids. The Enbridge Mainline system is the largest conduit of oil into the United States. Enbridge transports 53% of US-bound Canadian production, a figure that accounts for approximately 15% of total US crude oil imports. The existing Mainline system into the US constitutes four primary pipelines (Lines 1, 2, 3 and 4) as well as related lines, including Line 67the Alberta Clipper. Enbridge US Mainline West as of August 2014. Click to enlarge. In 2009, the State Department issued a Presidential Permit authorizing the construction, operation and maintenance of the 36-inch diameter Line 67 pipeline extending between the US-Canada border near Neche, ND and the first US mainline shut off valve or pumping station in the United States. (Earlier post.) That near-border segment of the Pipeline authorized by the 2009 Permit is only 3-miles long. Enbridge constructed the remainder of the Line 67 Pipeline in the United States to its southern terminus at Superior, Wisconsin, pursuant to other local, state and federal permits. Enbridge completed construction and began operations of Line 67 (Alberta Clipper) in 2010; the pipeline currently transports an average annual capacity of approximately 495,000 bpd of crude oil across the border. In 2012, Enbridge requested that the US Department of State issue a new Presidential Permit to authorize Enbridge to operate the border segment of its existing Line 67 crude oil pipeline up to its full design capacity. Full design capacity for Line 67 is 880,000 bpd for heavy crude. (This will vary based on the type of product transported. For example, the full design capacity of Line 67 would be greater than 880,000 bpd were light crudes transported on the line, which could be case in the future, the company noted.) However, the permitting process did not proceed as smoothly or quickly as Enbridge had planned. Hence, in a 16 June 2014 letter to the State Department, law firm Steptoe & Johnson explained that: shipper needs dictate that the annual average capacity of Line 67 in the United States be increased up to 570,000 bpd by mid-2014 (referred to as Phase I), and up to 800,000 bpd by mid-2015 (referred to as Phase II). As we explained, the unforeseen Line 67 Project permitting delay at the Department of over a year has led Enbridge to recently assess options for achieving this additional capacity both at the border, albeit not on Line 67, and on the portion of Line 67 south of the border segment, consistent with Enbridges obligations as a common carrier pipeline operator and its existing Presidential Permits. To avoid adverse impacts to shippers of the sort described by the ALJ [Administrative Law Judge], Enbridge has decided to optimize its existing Mainline System to provide the flexibility and efficiency that it would need to transport increased volumes of crude oil from Canada into the United States within the terms of its existing Presidential Permits, as explained below. The basic plan is to build interconnections between Line 67 and the adjacent Line 3 to give Enbridge the capability to increase the volume of crude oil. The increased flow will: Move on Line 67 in Canada towards the border; be transferred to Line 3 at Enbridges Gretna, Manitoba station at a point approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north of the US-Canada border; cross the US-Canada border on the Line 3 border segment; and then be transferred back to Line 67 approximately 16 miles (25.7 km) south of the US-Canada border for delivery to Superior. Enbridge is planning four interconnections between Lines 3 and 67 as part of this project. Two interconnections will be constructed between Line 67 and Line 3 at the Gretna station in Canada to allow crude oil to move between the lines north of the border crossing; and two interconnections will be constructed between Line 67 and Line 3 in the United States to allow crude oil to move between the lines at a point in North Dakota about 16 miles south of the border, which is south of the first US mainline valve for each line. From Enbridge Exhibit B as published by the US State Department. The red lines show the connections between the Alberta Clipper and Line 3. The dotted lines show future connections. Mileposts are relative to Edmonton. Click to enlarge. Enbridge envisions possible future interconnections between Line 3 and Line 4. The construction and operation of the US interconnections does not require any federal, state, and/or local approvals, the company said. The Canadian interconnections will be constructed within the boundaries of Enbridges existing Gretna station; Canadian approvals have already been obtained. The company also has Canadian approval to transport increased volumes of crude oil on Line 67 in Canada up to 800,000 bpd. Enbridge is currently constructing the pump upgrades in Canada to allow for an increase in the authorized capacity of the line in that country. Once construction of those pump upgrades is complete, which is expected in the coming weeks, Enbridge will have the operational flexibility to flow an increased amount of oil on Line 67 in Canada to the Line 3 border segment for transportation across the US-Canada border. Enbridge said it has also obtained all necessary US approvals to transport an average annual capacity of 570,000 bpd on Line 67 south of the Line 3 interconnection and plans to do so. Enbridge has already received approval for and has begun construction of a pump upgrade in Minnesota to support 570,000 bpd. However: unless and until the Department issues the requested Presidential Permit allowing Enbridge to transport more than 500,000 bpd across the border on Line 67, the interconnections will actually result in a decrease of 105,000 bpd of crude oil across the Line 67 border segment (from the current 495,000 bpd of heavy crude to 390,000 bpd of light crude), and an increase of 180,000 bpd of crude oil (from 390,000 bpd of light crude to 570,000 bpd of heavy crude) across the Line 3 border segment. These cross-border volumes are compliant with the currently applicable Presidential Permits for both lines. The pipeline interconnections thus provide Enbridge with the operational flexibility to transport crude oil in the range of 800,000 bpd of oil on Line 67 south of the Line 3 interconnection through the construction and operation of the pump upgrade. The use of pipeline interconnections is a standard industry practice; multiple interconnections already exist between Enbridge Lines 2, 3, and 4 both in Canada and the United States. Enbridge is also constructing an interconnection between Line 67 and Line 4 at Hardisty in the event of a shutdown of Line 4 between Edmonton and Hardisty. Enbridge said that it will construct the interconnections and pump upgrades, and to operate those facilities to increase the flow of oil on Line 67 south of border segment, whether or not the requested new Presidential Permit is issued by the State Department. Under the project name Automated Airfield Ground Maintenance (AAGM), four Mercedes-Benz Arocs tractor units demonstrated automated airfield clearing in a remote-controlled convoy. The benefits are obvious: Airfield clearances are hard to predict and thus difficult to plan, especially in winter. This makes snow removal units operated with pinpoint precision by a single vehicle operator to remove snow from runways especially crucial when extreme weather strikes without warning during the winter months, and they require no additional vehicle and staff scheduling. Following its successful demonstration of the Highway Pilot and Highway Pilot Connect systems ( earlier post )the latter making truck platooning possibleDaimler has demonstrated automated snow removal operations on the site of the former Pferdsfeld airbase. This application of autonomous commercial vehicle operation was based on a specific customer requirement. We are not just talking about new technologies, we are bringing them onto the road. Step by step we are developing our very latest assistance systems even further with a view to automated driving. We are currently working on the implementation of two specific use cases: Firstly automated driving in quite normal traffic on motorways with the clear aim of relieving driver workload and significantly improving safety. And secondly driverless operation in enclosed areas to significantly improve productivity. With todays demonstration of automated snow clearance on an airfield, we are once more reinforcing our claim to technological leadership. Martin Daum, the Daimler AG Board of Management member responsible for Daimler Trucks The project was established in close cooperation between Lab1886, the Daimler innovation incubator, Daimler Trucks and Fraport AG. Lab1886 actively supports the transformation of Daimler AG from an automotive manufacturer to a mobility provider, and works closely with the Daimler CASE initiative (earlier post). Based in Frankfurt/Main, Fraport AG operates one of the worlds largest air traffic hubs. The objective of the joint testing activities is the implementation of state-of-the-art telematics-based vehicle control technology in areas not accessible to the public. This is one of the key aspects in which the new application differs from the technology milestones in the area of autonomous driving developed and realized for practical testing by Daimler to date. The Highway Pilot and the Highway Pilot Connect system presented for platooning are designed for use on public roads. Premiere for the Remote Truck Interface (RTI). The four Arocs test vehicles are equipped with the new Remote Truck Interface (RTI) for remotely controlling vehicle functions and exchanging data. The RTI is the centerpiece of the new technology, for which Daimler can draw on a significant pool of knowledge and engineering from projects such as the advanced Highway Pilot and Highway Pilot Connect systems. All vehicles are fully interlinked via the RTI by means of telematic systems, all operate automated and all are able to lead or follow in the vehicle convoy. Specifically, this means that a convoy leader chooses a random unit from a fleet of available semitrailer combinations and defines this as the lead truck. The leader then uses a control panel to define the number and sequence of the other convoy vehicles, and conducts a pre-operation inspection of the semitrailer combinations. All vehicles are equipped with dual GPS tracking (DGPS) and of course state-of-the-art vehicle-to-vehicle communication (V2V communication) technology. In addition, the interplay of the innovative RTI and the remote control unit provides extremely fast and not least secure date exchange among vehicles. To make this work in real time, a full data exchange between the vehicles and the main control unit of the RTI takes place every 0.1 seconds. The transmissions in the area of V2V communication are based on the "Digital Short Range Communication DSRC technology. The automated snow removal convoy comprises four vehicles during the test phase and can be expanded to up to 14 units. It paves the way for further applications. In addition to other airports that have already signalled interest in such precision work machines for automated runway maintenance, solutions for a wide variety of applications are feasible due to the Mercedes-Benz Remote Truck Interface. This opens up new possibilities for our customers: High-precision maneuvering procedures of conventional trucks, remotely controlled by the driver outside the cab for example, positioned at the rear of the vehicle with a perfect view of the maneuvers are possible, as is unmanned driving in mines, at container terminals or other closed-off sites. Martin Zeilinger, Head of Advanced Engineering at Daimler Trucks In the case of the demonstration of the Arocs tractor units, the Remote Truck Interface connects the vehicle with the outside world. The control functions for track guidance and operation of the convoy are housed in additional external control units such as the track computer, the operating panel and the wireless interface. Specifically this means that the automated Arocs trucks are able to perform the following functions: Control: engine start/stop Control: parking brake Vehicle lateral control: steering Vehicle longitudinal control: engine control (throttling up and down) Vehicle longitudinal control: service brake Powertrain management: transmission (engage start-off gear, all gear changes, engage neutral) Powertrain management: activation and deactivation of the differential locks Peripherals: lights including turn indicators, rotating beacons and much more Special functions: body control; here: control of the mounted sweeper blower The RTI control unit allows actuation of all connected vehicle functions via an interface (CAN). Remote control is thus possible by integrating a wireless interface into the CAN. An important component of the RTI control unit is the integrated safety concept. This means that all vehicle functions are monitored. The safety routine is executed as soon as an error occurs. In this way we can ensure that the vehicles can be stopped safely and quickly if needed, and can then simply be operated manually. Martin Zeilinger The snow-clearing application. In the past, airport operators have had to keep the required removal and cleaning equipment in an operational stand-by condition. The lead times for relatively rare and usually short-lived bad weather periods tie up major capacities. On the other hand, an airfield requires consistent and thorough clearing operations even when just a little bit of snow covers the ground. On such sites, the snow must be cleared to one side over a width of up to 60 meters in a single pass. In the case of Frankfurt Airport today, up to 14 vehicles drive in a convoy with the appropriate overlap. This means the snow is passed on from the front to the rear from one vehicle to the next. As a result, the snow load increases from vehicle to vehicle, and the performance requirement for the individual snow removal units rises sharply from front to rear. Furthermore, the staggered driving also makes high-precision guidance crucial for the quality of the clearing pattern. All this necessitates highly dissimilar requirements on the performance of each snow removal vehicle. In the case of Frankfurt-Main airport, the convoy must keep the runways and taxiways free from snow and ice as a precisely staggered formation. To date, snow clearance machines have worked their way along meter by meter under poor visibility conditions in darkness and fog, with snow constantly being thrown up by the vehicles driving ahead. The poor visibility often leads to increasing distances between vehicles, opening up the convoy and extending the time it takes to clear a runway. Moreover, poor visibility can lead to the outer vehicles damaging the runway marker lights, which are very expensive to repair. In the test of the autonomously operating snow removal trucks of Daimler, a predefined snow removal programunder the constant control of a convoy leaderspecifies the routes, direction and speed. The person in the lead vehicle of the removal convoy in charge of the demanding task enjoys relatively good visibility of the swaths to be cleared ahead of the lead and the trailing vehicles. The swaths to be cleared are predefined with the goal of a high-precision clearing trajectory. This means the routes to be driven are always specified cartographically and are followed with pinpoint precision thanks to a differential GPS systemaccuracy: three centimetersby the lead vehicle as well as the other convoy vehicles thanks to constant target/actual comparisons. A high level of flexibility is also a must for snow clearance operations on airfields. That is why the convoy leaderowing to suddenly identified and then immediately required deviations from the digitally specified clearing pathis able to take over the routing personally at any time. To this end, the convoy leader has the classic controlssteering wheel, accelerator and brake pedalat his disposal in each Arocs and thereby full control over the vehicle. The trailing vehicles then immediately and fully automatically adopt the target paths resulting for them from the change of the route of vehicle 1. All-wheel drive Arocs 2045 AS 4x4. The basis of the automated convoy is the all-wheel-drive Mercedes-Benz Arocs 2045 AS production tractor units from the robust Grounder product range, equipped with the latest OM 470 LA engine generation certified to Euro VI standards with an output of 315 kW (428 hp) and producing 2100 Nm of torque. At a brisk speed, most of the mass of snow is thrown to the side by a fully hydraulic, three-section snow plough measuring eight meters in width. The finishing surface clearing touches are carried out by a sweeper (sweeper-blower). It is towed as a semitrailer and powered independently of the tractor unit by a six-cylinder engine from Mercedes-Benz installed at the rear of the semitrailer. The entire tractor/semi-trailer combination is 23 meters long and weighs 25 tonnes in operational condition. The tractor unit, which was reinforced in the area of the snow plough mounts, accounts for about ten tonnes, the plough blade adds two tonnes to the total weight, the semi-trailer with the sweeper blower has a gross weight of 13 tonnes. Thoughts, prayers and a pittance. Thats what North Carolina got after Hurricane Matthew, and its likely what awaits other states and territories facing disaster recovery. Matthew was small potatoes compared to Harvey, Irma and Maria, but I think weve determined that comparing devastation is little comfort to the afflicted. Matthew in 2016 sent floodwaters as far inland as Fayetteville and Lumberton, killing 26 residents and causing $1.5 billion in property damages. The federal government provided money to cope with initial expenses $330 million in federal disaster recovery funds appropriated by Congress, $752 million through FEMA, and $198.5 million more from HUD in the waning days of the Obama administration. Then-candidate Donald Trump, who was still campaigning for the nations top office, sent thoughts and prayers, proclaiming at a Greensboro rally, We are with you, and we will always be with you and help you when needed. That pledge has become a familiar refrain since Trump assumed the presidency. Houston, Sept. 2, after touring the devastation left by Hurricane Harvey: We are with you today, we are with you tomorrow, and we will be with you EVERY SINGLE DAY AFTER, to restore, recover, and REBUILD! Trump tweeted. It started well enough, with Congress passing a $15.25 billion disaster relief bill on Sept. 8. A few days later, Hurricane Irma swept up the entire Florida peninsula, flattening the Florida Keys. We are there for you 100 percent, Trump said on his post-hurricane visit. Then came Maria on Sept. 20. When President Trump visited Puerto Rico on Sept. 29, he once again pledged that the support of the U.S. government would never falter. We will not rest ... until the people of Puerto Rico are safe. These are great people. We want them to be safe and sound and secure, and we will be there every day until that happens, he said. Vice President Mike Pence echoed those sentiments in a visit to the islands a few days later and reiterated them in a speech on Hispanic Heritage Day, Oct. 11. But the clock started ticking less than a day later at 6:49 a.m EDT on Oct. 12, to be exact in the presidents daily tweet storm, in which he blamed Puerto Rico for its financial crisis, declared that the infrastructure was a disaster before the hurricane, and concluded: We cannot keep FEMA, the Military & the First Responders, who have been amazing (under the most difficult circumstances) in P.R. forever! This while 85 percent of the people in the country still had no power, one-third of the island lacked clean running water, and just 8 percent of its roads were passable. Nonetheless, the House approved a $36.5 billion disaster relief package for Puerto Rico that same day, which also included a bail-out for the National Flood Insurance Program, and $577 million for firefighting efforts in California. Nine Republican congressmen from North Carolina voted against the aid package, including Sixth District Rep. Mark Walker, who said any disaster relief aid should be offset with spending cuts. Asked about his vote at an event Monday in Raleigh, Walker said he also was opposed to some items that were added to the bill, including additional funding for the troubled flood insurance program and to pensions. The bill allows any state affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma or Maria to apply for loans and relief funds, but does not address the specific requests from Florida and Texas for an additional $40 billion in aid. (Text amended). The damage from Harvey is projected to cost $190 billion, while the costs of Irma will be roughly $100 billion. In California, where ongoing wildfires have killed 41 people and destroyed 213,000 acres of homes and vineyards, property damage could cost $65 billion. If North Carolinas experience is any indication, those states only will receive a fraction of what they ultimately need for long-term recovery. Even before the most recent rash of hurricanes, North Carolinas request for additional funding to cover property buyouts, agricultural and small-business losses, damage to public infrastructure and facilities and repairs to both public and private property was met with a humiliating response. Of the $929 million requested by the state, the Trump administration approved $6.1 million, about 1 percent. Of all the spending the government does on education, social programs, the military disaster spending is the one thing that cant and shouldnt have to wait. Helping states deal with disasters beyond their scope is one of the reasons the federal government exists. Rep. Walker likened passing disaster relief without spending cuts to going to an emergency room and using a credit card without any idea of how youre going to pay it. Thats actually the unpleasant reality for a lot of people without health insurance. The emergency room is actually an apt comparison. Its where you go for acute care, and you cant be turned away when your life and health hang in the balance. Federal law mandates that hospitals must treat patients with life-threatening conditions, regardless of their ability to pay. This reflects our general belief as a society that no one should be left to die simply because they are poor. Or maybe not. Just because Republicans control the White House and Congress does not mean the national debt can be forgotten, Walker wrote in an op-ed for The Wall Street Journal. Political expediency should not trump principle. But political expediency, in the single-minded pursuit of being a small-government budget hawk, apparently can trump human suffering and death. (Note: Text changed on Oct. 18 to reflect that relief and loan funding in the bill is also available for areas affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.) LOS ANGELES Roy Price has resigned as the head of Amazon Studios after an allegation that he sexually harassed a television producer working on one his shows. An Amazon Studios representative confirmed that Price resigned from the company on Tuesday. Price was placed on unpaid leave Thursday following accusations made by Isa Hackett, an executive producer on the Amazon drama series The Man in the High Castle. Hackett told the Hollywood Reporter that Price made lewd remarks to her during a promotional tour at Comic-Con in San Diego in 2015, including repeatedly making unwanted propositions to her while on a cab ride. Albert Cheng has been named to run Amazon Studios on an interim basis. 2017 Los Angeles Times Visit the Los Angeles Times at www.latimes.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. PHOTO (for help with images, contact 312-222-4194): A former Alamance County sheriff's deputy was arrested Monday on a felony child abuse charge. Former deputy Christopher Wilburn and Erin Rumley, a former Elon University police officer, are accused of abusing a 3-year-old boy, the State Bureau of Investigation said in a news release. The child is Wilburn's biological child and Rumley's stepchild, the SBI said. Both bailed out of the Alamance County jail on $5,000 secured bail each. The daycare told the child's biological mother in May that the boy had multiple injuries when he arrived, according to the report. The Alamance County District Attorney's office asked the SBI to help investigate the child abuse case of a special needs child. No information on a court date was given. GREENSBORO Attorneys were left blindsided after a new witness called prosecutors Monday morning in the middle of a now 11-day capital murder trial to offer stunning information that could jeopardize whether this trial will see a verdict. Brandon Jamison, who had been housed with Garry Gupton in the mental health facility at the Guilford County jail, told prosecutors that Gupton told him he killed 46-year-old Stephen White to prevent anyone from finding out that he went home with a gay man. Guilford County Assistant District Attorney Robert Enochs, who is prosecuting the case, told Superior Court Judge Michael Duncan that Jamison called him at 8:50 a.m. Monday, 40 minutes before the trial resumed. Were in the middle of a trial, said Wayne Baucino, Guptons attorney. Weve had no notice of this witness. This is just absolutely an unfair surprise, and it could have a prejudicial effect on Gupton and the case. Gupton, 29, of Greensboro has been on trial since Oct. 2 for the first-degree murder of White. Gupton is accused of attacking White and setting him on fire on Nov. 9, 2014, leaving White alone inside Room 417 of the Battleground Inn, where he was burned so severely that he died six days later. White and Gupton met the night before at Chemistry Nightclub, a gay bar and lounge in Greensboro. At 2 a.m., they left the club together and traveled to the hotel, at 1517 Westover Terrace, where attorneys said the pair agreed to have oral sex. The new twist in the case left attorneys questioning Jamisons credibility and creates a possible conflict of interest that could force a mistrial. The surprise goes both ways, Enochs said. I was surprised as well. He said Jamison told him that he shared space with Gupton in the jail and that Jamison said Gupton gave details about Whites death, including Guptons alleged motive. Mr. Gupton described going home with a gay man and beating him with a telephone because he didnt want people to know he went home with a gay man, Enochs said, quoting Jamisons account. Jurors do not know about Jamison. Discussions about his information happened outside their presence. The new information could come as a shock to jurors who have continued hearing testimony and watching videos that depicted Gupton as a man who had a mental breakdown the night of Whites death. Gupton, who could face the death penalty if convicted, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. However, he and his attorneys, Baucino and Ames Chamberlin, have yet to deny any of the allegations against Gupton. The 12 jurors and three alternates have viewed officers body-worn camera and surveillance video of Gupton outside the Battleground Inn screaming that ISIS, Al-Qaeda, C-4 and bombs were inside the hotel. On camera, Gupton cried hysterically and told officers it was the terrorists trap when they heard fire alarms go off inside the building. Were in the middle of the trial, and we would certainly object to new evidence, Baucino said. This has substantial impact on our defense. Enochs told Duncan he ended the call with Jamison quickly to ensure he did not become a witness in the case he is prosecuting. Instead he sent the cases lead detective, C. Montgomerie of the Greensboro Police Department, to talk with Jamison. Throughout the day, jurors viewed items collected from the hotel room, including a phone burned into a pair of jeans, a used condom, clothing and photographs. After the lunch recess, Enochs told Duncan he wanted to add Jamison to the witness list. Enochs said Jamison told Montgomerie things he would not have known if Gupton hadnt told him, such as how many times White was struck on the back of the head, that the telephone used in the attack broke and that White was hit with a television set until he stopped moving. Enochs argued that Jamison could be an important witness if he can tell jurors what Gupton was thinking in the days and weeks following Whites death. But there is another problem for the defense. During the lunch recess, Baucino spoke with his colleagues in the public defenders office and learned that the attorneys there have represented Jamison on five separate occasions, which could constitute a conflict of interest for Baucino. If the state calls Jamison, Mr. Gupton can waive the conflict, Duncan told the attorneys. If not, we all have a problem. That problem is big. If Gupton doesnt waive the conflict, Duncan might have to declare a mistrial. Jamison did waive his right to confidentiality in telling Baucino he could have access to his criminal and health records. Jamison has numerous convictions, according to the N.C. Department of Public Safety Public Informations website, including breaking and entering, larceny, obtaining property by false pretense, larceny of firearms, larceny over $1,000 and assault inflicting serious injury. Depending on whether Duncan allows Enochs to call Jamison as a witness, the states case could drag out longer than expected. Enochs said Monday he plans to finish presenting evidence by Wednesday. The trial is scheduled to run three and five weeks. Enochs told Duncan after the afternoon recess that he wanted more time to talk with Jamison. He said he plans to sit down and talk with him this afternoon before deciding for sure to add him to his witness list. Baucino and Enochs agreed that was the best thing to do before making a decision. I need a little more time, Enochs said. If hes not credible or whatever, I wont call him. Greensboro City Council discussed at its meeting Tuesday the next steps in a proposal to change the name of a street to honor Josephine Boyd Bradley. What happened: The council decided to hold an information session on changing the name of Aycock Street/Westover Terrace to honor Josephine Boyd Bradley, the first black student to attend the all-white Greensboro High (now Grimsley). The council didnt set a date. Background: Boyd was the first black student who attended the all-white Greensboro High School, now Grimsley. Lewis Brandon, a longtime community activist, asked the council in September to rename a 1-mile segment of the street from Gate City Boulevard (where it is Aycock) to West Wendover Avenue (where it is Westover). The council wants to hear from residents and businesses who might be affected by the change before it decides whether to make that change or expand it to include the entire 4-mile stretch of Aycock/Westover. What they said: Brandon said his request has nothing to do with the controversy over the Aycock name. Former N.C. Gov. Charles B. Aycock (1901-05) played a central role in building a long-lasting system of white supremacy known as Jim Crow. Brandon said hes not interested in having a fight over the Aycock name. This is about Josephine Boyd, he said. Whats next? City staffers will show council members the letter advertising the information session and give council members an overview of how much the change will cost by Nov. 14. Updated at 8:49 a.m. GREENSBORO Guilford County Schools officials said Tuesday morning none of the schools are closing because of a water main break on Westover Terrace. Greensboro Police Department said in a news release Tuesday that Brooks Global Studies School closed because of the water main break. Schools spokeswoman Nora Shoptaw said that that news release is incorrect and though the water main break is affecting the school, it is not closing. The water main break happened at the westbound on-ramp to Wendover Avenue. Greensboro Police Department said officers closed the roadway between Green Valley Road and Whilden Place. Water is flowing out of the bridge abutment onto Wendover Avenue and may cause delays. Police are directing traffic on the off-ramps from Wendover Avenue. Other businesses including Fire Station #5, Boy Scouts of America, Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen, Marus Marble & Tile Co., Mosquito Squad and Patriot Staffing are also affected. Crews will be in the area making on-site repairs. GREENSBORO A water main break in Greensboro closed a portion of Westover Terrace this morning and could impact travel on Wendover Avenue. The water main break happened at the westbound on-ramp to Wendover Avenue. Greensboro Police Department said officers closed the roadway between Green Valley Road and Whilden Place. Water is flowing out of the bridge abutment onto Wendover Avenue and may cause delays. Police are directing traffic on the off-ramps from Wendover Avenue. Officers said Brooks Global Studies School is planning to close because of the water main break. Other businesses including Fire Station #5, Boy Scouts of America, Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen, Marus Marble & Tile Co., Mosquito Squad and Patriot Staffing are also affected. Crews will be in the area making on-site repairs. RALEIGH Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl made a last-minute argument Tuesday that President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his criticism of the soldier preventing him from receiving a fair sentence on charges he endangered comrades in Afghanistan. Lawyers for Bergdahl, who pleaded guilty this week to charges that could send him to prison for life, cited a news conference this week in which Trump indicated he stands by his campaign-trail criticism of Bergdahl. They asked to have the case dismissed. While running for president, Trump repeatedly called Bergdahl a "traitor" and suggested harsh punishments. Asked about the Bergdahl case on Monday, Trump first said he wouldn't comment. Then he added: "But I think people have heard my comments in the past." Bergdahl's lawyers say the remark is especially problematic now that Trump is commander in chief. "President Trump stands at the pinnacle of an unbroken chain of command that includes key participants in the remaining critical steps of the case," the defense wrote. The judge overseeing the case, Army Col. Jeffery R. Nance, previously called Trump's campaign statements about Bergdahl "disturbing and disappointing," but ruled they didn't amount to unlawful command influence. The judge's February ruling noted that Trump's disparaging comments were made before he was president. Nance wrote that "the statements of a private citizen, even if running for President, cannot be unlawful command or influence." The judge told the defense then that they could renew their motion if there were new developments surrounding Trump. White House media staff didn't immediately respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday. Bergdahl, who's from Hailey, Idaho, pleaded guilty Monday to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy for walking off his remote post in Afghanistan in 2009. He was captured and held by the Taliban and its allies for five years. Bergdahl admitted guilt without striking a deal with prosecutors to limit his sentence, meaning that his punishment has been left up to Nance. He faces up to life in prison at sentencing starting next week. President Barack Obama brought him home in 2014 in a swap for five Taliban prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, saying the U.S. does not leave its service members on the battlefield. Republicans roundly criticized Obama, and Trump went further while campaigning for president, repeatedly calling Bergdahl a "dirty, rotten traitor" who deserved to be executed by firing squad or thrown out of a plane without a parachute. Bergdahl, 31, has said he walked away from his post with the intention of reaching other commanders and drawing attention to what he saw as problems with his unit. North Carolina Republicans appeared to fall just short in Tuesdays General Assembly elections of gaining large enough majorities to override Gov. Roy Coopers vetoes on their own. But their seat gains eroded further the Democrats ability to block bills on abortion and other highly contested legislation. The Senate GOP increased their seats to the number needed to have a veto-proof majority. But Speaker Tim Moore said that House Republicans were one seat shy of a similar threshold. Moore said Wednesday he's confident House Republicans can get help from Democrats in an override. But that could be more difficult on abortion restrictions, which Cooper and other Democrats campaigned against. Can North Carolina get smarter? Leaders of North Carolinas university, community college and K-12 school systems think it can. The states educational leaders have created a new commission that will come up with a strategic plan on educational attainment that runs from early childhood through college. The effort, dubbed My Future NC, includes people from the business, nonprofit, education and faith communities. The group will meet through the end of 2018. The group plans to produce two major reports one to recommend educational goals for the state and another to recommend policies to achieve those goals. The group is led by three co-chairs: Dale Jenkins, the chief executive officer of Medical Mutual Holdings, a medical malpractice insurance company based in Raleigh; Andrea Smith, the chief administrative officer of Bank of America in Charlotte; and Margaret Spellings, the president of the UNC system. Spellings told The News & Observer of Raleigh that she envisions a plan that would give North Carolina smoother transitions from high school to higher education and from community colleges to universities. North Carolina is one of the few states without a comprehensive multiyear education plan that runs from preschool to postsecondary education. North Carolina also trails the nation in educational attainment. About 86 percent of its residents 25 and older have a high school diploma and 28 percent have a four-year college degree. Both figures are about a percentage point below national averages. The 35-member commission will be guided by a five-member steering committee that includes Jennifer Haygood, the acting president of the N.C. Community College System, and Mark Johnson, the state superintendent of public instruction. Commission members with Greensboro connections include Maurice Mo Green, the former superintendent of Guilford County Schools; and Vanessa Harrison, the president of AT&T North Carolina and a member of the board of trustees at N.C. A&T. The commission will cover its expenses through grants from the John M. Belk Endowment in Charlotte, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation of Seattle and the Goodnight Education Foundation in Cary. The effort was introduced Tuesday at an event at Davie County Early College High School in Mocksville. HONOLULU A federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trump's latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor." It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by the president to be thwarted, in whole or in part, by the courts. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson issued the ruling after the ban on a set of mostly Muslim countries was challenged by the state of Hawaii, which warned that the restrictions would separate families and undermine the recruiting of diverse college students. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the ruling "dangerously flawed" and said it "undercuts the president's efforts to keep the American people safe." The Justice Department said it will quickly appeal. At issue was a ban, announced in September and set to go into effect early Wednesday, on travelers from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, along with some Venezuelan government officials and their families. The Trump administration said the ban was based on an assessment of each country's security situation and willingness to share information with the U.S. Watson, appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling against Trump's previous ban. The latest version "plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation," Watson wrote. The judge's ruling applies only to the six Muslim-majority countries on the list. It does not affect the restrictions against North Korea or Venezuela, because Hawaii did not ask for that. "This is the third time Hawaii has gone to court to stop President Trump from issuing a travel ban that discriminates against people based on their nation of origin or religion," Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said in a statement. "Today is another victory for the rule of law." Hawaii argued the updated ban was a continuation of Trump's campaign call for a ban on Muslims, despite the addition of two countries without a Muslim majority. Watson noted that Hawaii had argued Trump did not back down from that call, listing in the ruling a series of June tweets "in which (Trump) complained about how the Justice Department had submitted a 'watered down, politically correct version' to the Supreme Court." Other courts that weighed the travel ban have cited Trump's comments about banning Muslims, including the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Virginia and a federal judge in Maryland. Watson also referred to a Trump campaign statement in his previous ruling. His Tuesday ruling said the new ban, like its predecessor, fails to show that nationality alone makes a person a greater security risk to the U.S. "The categorical restrictions on entire populations of men, women and children, based upon nationality, are a poor fit for the issues regarding the sharing of 'public-safety and terrorism-related information' that the president identifies," Watson wrote. He said the ban is inconsistent in the way some countries are included or left out. For example, Iraq failed to meet the security benchmark but was omitted from the ban. Somalia met the information-sharing benchmark but was included. "Judge Watson's ruling makes clear that we are a nation of laws, no matter what this administration may try to do," Hawaii's U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said in a statement. "There is a place here for peaceful immigrants from every corner of the world: Spain, Syria, Sudan, or Singapore. There is no place here for discrimination or xenophobia." Watson found fault with what sorts of visitors are barred. For instance, all tourists and business travelers from Libya are excluded from the U.S., but student visitors were allowed. The judge said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order blocking the ban should be extended. It comes as other courts weigh challenges to the ban. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland are challenging the order in front of the same federal judge in Seattle who struck down Trump's initial ban in January. That ban aimed mostly at Muslim-majority countries led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Trump revised the ban, Hawaii challenged that version, too, and Watson agreed it discriminated on the basis of nationality and religion. A subsequent U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate restrictions against Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and against all refugees. Hawaii then successfully challenged the government's definition of which relatives of people already living in the U.S. would be allowed into the country, and Watson ordered the list expanded. U.S. Rep. Mark Walker is all for President Donald Trumps tax-reform plan almost. It carries a potential unintended consequence, the 6th District Republican from Guilford County said in a news release last week. It would likely decrease charitable giving incentives for many taxpayers. Walker, a Baptist minister before his first election to Congress in 2014, doesnt want to let that happen. So he introduced what he calls the Universal Charitable Giving Act of 2017, which he hopes will be incorporated into tax-overhaul legislation. It should be. Its a worthy idea. Trump proposed nearly doubling the standard deduction to $12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for couples. This could increase the portion of taxpayers who claim the standard deduction from 70 percent to 95 percent, according to analysts. Those who itemize deductions can reduce their tax liability by listing contributions to charity. Thats both an important incentive to give and a reward for generosity. If millions of Americans lose that tax benefit, some in the nonprofit community worry their organizations will suffer. These are religious institutions, social services providers, disaster-relief agencies, colleges and universities, arts funds and more that depend on private donations to operate. While many Americans would give without the tax break, others might be unable to afford as much generosity. More critically, this is a matter of fairness. The 5 percent of taxpayers who would continue to itemize their deductions are the wealthiest Americans. They would still be able to claim the tax break while less-affluent taxpayers would not. The wealthy already gain the most from the Trump plan, according to an analysis by the Tax Policy Center of the Urban Institute and Brookings Institution. Taxpayers in the top 1 percent would see their after-tax incomes increase by 8.5 percent in the first year, it found. Those in the bottom 95 percent would realize a boost in after-tax income of between 0.5 percent and 1.2 percent. But that calculation takes into account the loss of itemized deductions, except for mortgage interest. In addition, the lowest tax rate would increase from 10 percent to 12 percent. The people most likely to pay more in taxes under the Trump plan, according to this analysis, are those earning between $150,000 and $300,000 mostly because they would lose itemized deductions. If Walkers intervention is adopted, however, they could claim the higher standard deduction in addition to deductions for charitable giving and mortgage interest. Overall, the tax plan is likely to be a budget-buster, and Walkers provision would give up more revenue. But the tax break for charity is popular with taxpayers and beneficial for society as a whole. Its so worthwhile that it ought to be expanded to the 70 percent of taxpayers who dont itemize their deductions now. Theyve been unfairly excluded from a break that other taxpayers enjoy. There are interesting facts about charitable giving in the United States. Among people in the lowest income category less than $25,000 fewer people report giving anything, according to the Philanthropy Roundtable. Thats understandable. They have less to give, and theres likely no tax break available. Yet, the people in the lowest income bracket who do give report giving the highest percentage of their income 9 percent. Some do even better, according to Philanthropy Roundtable: A significant number are sacrificial donors sharing double-digit portions of their incomes. Generosity is an American virtue, which long has been encouraged by our tax code. Walker is right that the encouragement should not be weakened whether that effect was intended or not. There should be strong bipartisan agreement to enact his proposal. It would be good for charities and spread the benefits of tax cuts more evenly. WENTWORTH The Rockingham County commissioners are asking state legislators to take a hard look at granting their governing body control of future publication of required governmental notices and to allow for the publishing of legal notices for a fee. During Mondays regular meeting, the Board of Commissioners approved a resolution requesting the North Carolina General Assembly to allow the publication of legal notices on the county-maintained website. The resolution reads as a response to technological advances and cites the 2016 FCC Broadband Progress Report, which says 95 percent of Rockingham County residents have broadband coverage, as a reason for the change. It also takes aim at the less than 4,000 subscription rate for local publication RockinghamNow, as well as the 5,900 total subscribed to Greensboro News & Records Rockingham section. This comes after the approval of Senate Bill 181, which allows Guilford Countys governing boards to adopt an ordinance to allow the electronic publication of all notices that are required to be published or advertised in print elsewhere. The General Assembly approved the public notices bill, which only affects Guilford County publications, on Oct. 5. Rockingham County Reps. Bert Jones of Reidsville and Kyle Hall of King voted for the electronic notice bill, which passed by just one vote in the House. House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain) broke a tie. The Senate voted 30-16 in favor of the measure, including President Pro Tem Phil Berger Sr. (R-Eden). That local bill was created by state Sen. Trudy Wade (R-Guilford) after a similar bill passed last summer by the General Assembly was vetoed by Gov. Roy Cooper. The Legislature did not vote to override that veto. Wades local bill was reduced to only affect Guilford County. Berger is the father of Rockingham commissioners Vice Chairman Kevin Berger, who requested the resolution Monday for legislation to look further into Rockingham County joining Guilford in the pilot program that will allow local governments to publish required notices electronically and to charge a fee to publish legal notices on the county-maintained website. We currently spend over $28,000, at least last fiscal year, on legal notices, and its something that I think we need to ask the legislature to include us in allowing us to publish legal notices on our website, Berger said. The resolution and discussion, which was amended as an inclusion to the agenda, passed unanimously. Once they go into short session, hopefully we can get our representatives to include us in publishing legal notices on our website and help us save a good deal of money, Kevin Berger said. Chairman Mark Richardson added for public consumption that there is a lot of support for similar bills statewide. I for one endorse Mr. Bergers action in creating this resolution. One of the most contentious cases on the U.S. Supreme Court's fall docket involves a Colorado baker's much-publicized refusal to craft a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. This five-year-old case is described as a major battle between free speech and antidiscrimination laws. But, for all the noise, I don't expect the final ruling, even if the baker wins, to dramatically change the state of the antidiscrimination law. Related: What You Need to Understand About the Google Firing and Free Speech at Work Laws against discrimination by businesses have a long history in the United States. Back in 1964, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional power of Congress to bar such discrimination by private business actors. First Amendment arguments have been rejected before. Those who want to discriminate based on race or sex have often sought the cover of the First Amendment in an attempt to avoid the antidiscrimination laws. They have asserted a First Amendment right to associate with whom they wish and claimed that antidiscrimination laws violate their right of free speech. Such arguments have generally been rejected by the courts. In 1973, the Supreme Court explained that, while "[i]nvidious private discrimination may be characterized as a form of exercising freedom of association protected by the First Amendment, ... it has never been accorded affirmative constitutional protections." In 1995, the Court added a bit of ambiguity when it held that Massachusetts could not use its antidiscrimination laws to require private citizens who organize a parade for St. Patrick's Day to include among the marchers a group imparting a message the organizers do not wish to convey (gay pride). That case did not, however, involve a business enterprise, generally open to the public. And the Court emphasized that the parade was itself a form of expression, protected by the First Amendment. The pending Supreme Court case involving the Colorado baker is interesting because it will require to Court to decide whether similar arguments about artistic expression can, in some limited instances, justify discrimination by a business open to the public. Related: Free Speech Has a Cost When You Share Controversial Views Online Baker argues designing a cake is a work of art. The facts of the case are pretty straightforward. Jack Phillips is the owner of an independent bakery, Masterpiece Cakeshop, located outside of Denver, Colorado. Phillips refused to make a cake for a same-sex wedding, citing his personal opposition to gay marriage. The couple, David Mullins and Charlie Craig, sued under a Colorado law that bars discrimination based on sexual orientation, leading to sanctions by the State. After losing in the Colorado appeals courts, Phillips took his case to the U.S. Supreme Court where arguments are expected to be heard later this fall. Phillips argues that the Colorado statute infringes on his free speech, effectively forcing him to create personalized, custom art -- in this case a custom cake -- that spreads a message in favor of gay marriage that he doesn't agree with. Phillips agrees he could not refuse to sell an off-the-shelf product, but contends that a custom cake puts his personal message of approval on the issue of gay marriage. Phillips argues that a reasonable observer would see his custom cake as his endorsement of same-sex marriage. The State responds that Phillips can express his anti-gay marriage views with signs all over his cake shop or in other ways; the one thing he can't do is refuse to sell to the same-sex couple. The State contends that no reasonable person would deem mandatory compliance with state law as Phillips endorsing same-sex marriage. Related: Why It's OK to Sell Merchandise With the Confederate Battle Flag The ruling is not likely to change antidiscrimination law. Some are worried that a broad ruling for the baker could open a loophole to all antidiscrimination laws. This case, however it comes out, seems very unlikely to significantly upset the balance today between antidiscrimination laws and free speech. Notably, the legal briefs on the side of the baker are all very carefully crafted to say that they are not trying to open a Pandora's Box and undo years of antidiscrimination precedent. Their goal, instead, is to specifically carve out a limited exception for this baker, who says he does not want use his artistic expression -- the creation of the cake -- to support what he opposes. Ultimately, this case comes down to whether the Court wants to carve out a limited exception for such personalized, handcrafted services. Even if the Supreme Court rules in favor of Phillips, however, it is likely that it will do so on very narrow grounds, based on the artistic, personal, custom and expressive nature of Phillip's services. The ruling would have to be so limited, in my view, to obtain the swing vote of Justice Anthony Kennedy. To obtain that necessary fifth vote, the Court would likely need to make clear that this is a very limited exception, and that, in general, businesses can't violate state or local laws against people based on sexual orientation. Such a ruling by its nature would be limited to individual owner-operators who provide services requiring customized, expressive activities. In other words, for most businesses, large and small, there will be no change in the status quo. They will have to continue to follow all federal and state antidiscrimination laws. It will be interesting to watch the Court navigate this terrain. Related: How the Supreme Court's Upcoming Ruling in Same-Sex Marriage Wedding Cake Case Might Impact Other Small Businesses How to Prevent Presidential Debates From Becoming Disruptive Workplace Debates Can Twitter Censor Terrorists and Trolls Without Silencing Free Speech? Copyright 2017 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved This article originally appeared on entrepreneur.com This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate NEW CANAAN A house that was built in 1962 as a four-bedroom colonial at 25 Apple Tree Lane was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2009. The reimagined residence was given 7,236 square feet of living space and a third floor that did not previously exist extending the number of bedrooms to six. The house sits on a level property of 3.25 acres and while the street is named for apple trees this yard is bordered by evergreens. A stone wall sits along the front of the property and provides access into the semi-circular driveway from two points. The front facade includes two entrances into the house. Bluestone paths, both of them lined with shaped boxwood shrubbery, lead to the covered front entrance with four columns and the casual entrance, which has a covered porch. The radical changes made by the current owners are evident beginning in the foyer, where they added a gracefully curved staircase to the second floor and a powder room with an onyx floor. Generously appointed interior rooms were adorned with detailed moldings and extensive millwork. The house also has new windows and newly refinished hardwood floors. The new configuration of the floor plan and additional amenities create a flexible space suitable for casual and formal living and entertaining spaces. A wide arched entryway leads into the formal living room, which has a marble fireplace, nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, and columns that separate this room from the sun room. In the sun room there is a coffered ceiling and French doors to the first of two bluestone patios. A second patio features an outdoor fireplace. Inside there are four more fireplaces. In addition to the living room fireplaces are found in the formal dining room, the family or great room, and the screened sun porch. The dining room fireplace is gas fueled and it is flanked by built-in china cabinets with decorative divided light windows and interior lighting. French doors open to another patio. The sizable gourmet kitchen is open to the adjoining dramatic two-story great room; the two rooms separated only by the large center island. Kitchen features include Carrera marble counters, a slate backsplash, glass-front walnut cabinetry with interior lighting, under cabinet lighting, pantry cabinets with pull-out drawers, and high-end appliances, among them Dacor double wall ovens and DCS range top. More Information ABOUT THIS HOUSE STYLE: Colonial ADDRESS: 25 Apple Tree Lane PRICE: $3,195,000 ROOMS: 12 FEATURES: 3.25-acre level property, located on a cul-de-sac, built-in grill, outdoor fireplace, four interior fireplaces, generator, Thermopane windows, wet bar, wine cellar, semi-circular driveway, just minutes to the center of New Canaan, aqua chiller water dispenser, front and rear stair cases, cedar wood roof, skylights, shed, attached heated three-car garage, full finished basement, six bedrooms, five full and three half baths SCHOOLS: West Elementary, Saxe Middle, New Canaan High School ASSESSMENT: $1,939,770 MILL RATE: 16.312 mills TAXES: $30,420 See More Collapse Off the kitchen is a separate breakfast room with a cathedral ceiling and three walls of windows. The family room has a cathedral ceiling with elegant trestle-like exposed beams, and its fireplace is flanked by French doors to the patio with the fireplace and built-in grill. Another set of French doors go into the screened porch. Its floor-to-ceiling fireplace comprises fieldstone. The kitchen, breakfast room, and family room together create the heart of this home. Off the kitchen and great room there is a wet bar with a wood counter. This area of the house also has a good-sized mudroom with a tile floor, built-in cubbies, and bead board on the lower walls. This room provides access to the heated three-car garage and the finished lower level, which has wine cellar among its livable spaces as well as a utility room and a separate mechanical room. There is also a built-in desk area that could serve as a homework station, computer space or a gift-wrapping area. On the second floor there are four bedrooms. The master suite is in a separate wing and it has two built-in shelves hidden behind mirrored French doors with glass door handles, French doors that lead to a private balcony, a spacious walk-in closet, and a marble bath. The third floor has the other two bedrooms and a full bath. Outside, the landscaping was deliberately planned and executed to add texture, shape and color to the yard. For more information or to set up an appointment to see the house contact Wendy Werneburg or Hannelore Kaplan of Hannelore & Company/William Raveis Real Estate at 203-536-2210 or Werneburg at Wendy.Werneburg@Raveis.com and Kaplan at Hannelore.Kaplan@raveis.com. South Middleton School Board members have tabled the execution of a four-year agreement that would outsource the hiring of classroom aides to vacant or new positions. Board member Randy Varner made the motion to table Monday after a proposal approving the use of Mission One Educational Staffing Services failed to earn broad support. The board on Aug. 21, by a vote of 6-0, had already approved an agreement with Mission One. At that time, Varner had voted in favor of the agreement along with board president Michael Berk, vice president Steven Bear and board members Stacey Knavel, Elizabeth Meikrantz and Robert Winters, according to the minutes. Board member Tom Merlie abstained from the Aug. 21 vote while members Christopher Morgan and Scott Witwer were absent from that meeting. On Monday, Varner and Knavel voted no to a proposal that would have used contract terms outlined in the agreement with Mission One to outsource the hiring of aides effective immediately. Instead Berk suggested Monday that the outsourcing of the hiring of aides be included as a topic of discussion on the agenda for the upcoming Nov. 6 planning meeting. I thought we had this locked down pretty well, Berk said Monday. I thought we had some consensus to this. But I dont think we do. We need to as a board dig a little deeper into this to understand what this is all about. Speaking out Monday during the board meeting, Knavel said she was concerned the use of Mission One could lower the quality of classroom aides interacting with South Middleton school children. These are people who work directly with students. In many cases, the most vulnerable students, Knavel said. She said the district is already having trouble drawing qualified applicants to low-paying classroom aide jobs. Taking away the district benefit package would make it even harder to draw in quality applicants, Knavel said. She said the lack of a year-round schedule also hampers the hiring of classroom aides. In recent years, school districts across Pennsylvania have outsourced substitute teachers and food service staff in an attempt to save money long-term. The savings come from removing employees from the district payroll to avoid having to pay increases in health insurance and pension costs. While outsourcing makes sense in areas like transportation or food service, classroom aides work one-on-one with students, Knavel said. That is essential to our core function, which is to educate the students. I need a better justification of it. I do not feel comfortable with handing those decisions over to a contractor. She was not alone. We have to be careful, Varner said after Mondays meeting. Maybe there is a reason for it a justification, but I havent seen enough of that to allay my concerns. Merlie suggested board members seek a better understanding of what classroom aides do within district schools. A building aide today is not what a building aide used to be, Merlie said. We need to get clarification on what our different aides are doing, Berk said. Im hearing a lot of confusion. What is a good classification of aides and what they are doing? The Nov. 6 meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the board room of the Iron Forge Elementary School. Haiti - FLASH : Two other survivors of the sinking found Monday, the Directorate of Civil Protection (DPC) informed us that in the context of the sinking off the Turtle Island (northwest) https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22413-haiti-flash-more-than-40-haitians-missing-in-a-shipwreck.html "2 other passengers were rescued bringing the number of survivors to 9. 7 are currently being treated on Turtle Island," specifying that hospitalized survivors suffer from "severe dehydration and muscular fatigue". Research is continuing in coordination with the Coast Guard. According to the survivors, the boat from Turtle Island, which had about fifty Haitian migrants on board, was attempting to illegally join the Providenciales Islands located in the Turks and Caicos archipelago, 200 km to the north . See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22413-haiti-flash-more-than-40-haitians-missing-in-a-shipwreck.html S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politics : It's time to ask for forgiveness to Dessalines dixit Evans Paul This Tuesday, October 17, as part of the commemoration of the 211st anniversary of the death of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, former Prime Minister Evans Paul in a message recalls this sad moment, affirming that the time has come to do justice to Dessalines. "The assassination of Dessalines on 17 October 1806 constituted the defeat of the national project 'Haiti, the world power of freedom' the weight of this crime still weighs heavily on our collective conscience. Less than three years after the birth of our country on January 1, 1804, by the assassination of the Father of the Fatherland, we had committed a revolting parricide leaving us still immature, despite the 211 years that separates us from this macabre event. So, did not it came time to ask forgiveness of Dessalines, the time to change attitudes, the time to recognize each one its share of responsibility in the debacle where our country is ? Did not it came time to rise to the height of Dessalines' dream of greatness with regard to our Nation ? Did not it came time to reconcile us with each other, reminding us of the heroic and loyal gesture of Colonel Charlotin Marcadieu, a mulatto of his state, who perished by fleeing to the rescue of Emperor Jacques 1st to Pont-Rouge, on October 17, 1806 ? Did not it came time to pay the due homage to Dedee Bazile, who was unjustly described as a crazy (Defilee / la folle), for having collected and secured the burial of the fragmented remains of the Founding Father of the Fatherland ? Did not it came time to say NO to all forms of 'falsehoods' cultivating 'rational position' of women and men worthy of the legacy of Dessalines, resolutely determined to take control of our destiny, today and tomorrow ? Certainly, it was time to repair the betrayal of October 17, the time to do justice to Dessalines !" HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Promise electric... onday, at the weekly press conference, Evenson Calixte, the Energy Technology Advisor to the Presidency, said the government was planning to build two large thermal power plants in the metropolitan area and the Great North, rehabilitating hydroelectric infrastructures and the exploitation of the wind potential of the North West Department estimated at 100 MW... Reminder : Conference on Dessalines in DR The Embassy of Haiti in the Dominican Republic reminds that the conference on Dessalines will take place on October 17, 2017 as planned at the premises of the Embassy at 5.00 p.m. Students are expected in large numbers. Fanmi Lavalas wants to overthrow Jovenel Moise Politicians and political activists, including Schiller Louidor and Fanmi Lavalas' Deputy Printemps Belizaire, reaffirmed their firm determination to overthrow Jovenel Moise. A new demonstration is planned for Tuesday, 17 October, on the occasion of the anniversary of the assassination of Emperor Jean Jacques Dessalines. Major dragnet in Arcahaie Monday, agents of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) arrested 3 presumed members of the Milot Berger Gang. Thay are Wislin Succes aka "Chacha", of his right hand man, James Casseus his drivers, and Marie Nadine Jonas. Information confirmed by Inspector Ader Jacquesm Commissary of the Commune. 10 years plan against gender violence The Minister for Women's Affairs and Women's Rights and partners launched a national plan to combat violence against women for 10 years. Sinking : Words of sympathy "I learned with emotion the shipwreck that occurred this Sunday off the island of Turtle https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22413-haiti-flash-more-than-40-haitians-missing-in-a-shipwreck.html , my sympathies to the families of the victims of this tragedy," said Jovenel Moise.* "The Embassy of Spain in Haiti expresses its sympathies to the families of the victims of the sinking off the island of Turtle." See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22423-haiti-flash-two-other-survivors-of-the-sinking-found.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22413-haiti-flash-more-than-40-haitians-missing-in-a-shipwreck.html Embassy of Haiti in Washington, closed The Embassy of Haiti in Washington, DC is closed on Tuesday, October 17, 2017, in honor of the Father of the Fatherland, Jean-Jacques Dessalines. It will be back at your service on Wednesday 18 October 2017, from 9:30 a.m. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22428-haiti-diaspora-death-of-dessalines-message-from-the-embassy-of-haiti-in-washington.html HL/ HaitiLibre Published on 2017/10/17 | Source "The Battleship Island", a historical action film by director Ryoo Seung-wan, won the Orbita award at Spain's Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival, which ended on Sunday. Advertisement Sitges, an international festival specializing in fantasy and horror films, marked its 50th anniversary this year. The Orbita award is given by a jury comprising the audiences of selected feature-length films of all nationalities previously unreleased in Spain. The film competed against Takeshi Kitano's "Outrage Coda" and Taylor Sheridan's "Winder River". "Battleship Island" depicts the plight of Korean slave laborers on Hashima Island in World War II. This is Ryoo's third award at the Sitges -- he won the Focus Asia award in 2015 with "Veteran" and the Casa Asia award in 2011 for "The Unjust". Login or sign up to follow actresses, movies & dramas and get specific updates and news Login Sign Up New Ad-free Subscriber Login Email Password Password Username Your E-mail will only be used to retrieve a lost password. Stay logged in Help Published on 2017/10/17 | Source Added episodes 1 and 2 captures for the Korean drama "The Package" (2017) Advertisement Directed by Jeon Chang-geun, Park Joon-seo-I Written by Cheon Seong-il Network : jTBC With Lee Yeon-hee, Jung Yong-hwa, Choi Wooshik, Ha Si-eun, Ryu Seung-soo, Park Yoo-na,... 12 episodes - Fri, Sat 23:00 Synopsis Set against the backdrop of Paris, France, a local guide and eight tourists explore and have fun. Broadcast starting date in Korea : 2017/10/13 More Published on 2017/10/17 | Source Added episodes 45 and 46 captures for the Korean drama "Bad Thief, Good Thief" (2017) Advertisement Directed by Jang Joon-ho, Oh Kyeong-hoon Written by Cha I-yeong, Son Yeong-mok Network : MBC With Ji Hyun-woo, Seohyun, Kim Ji-hoon-I, Lim Ju-eun, Ahn Kil-kang, Jung Kyung-soon,... 50 episodes - Sat, Sun 22:00 Synopsis A story of thieves who affect the authorities that manipulate Korea. It serves to bring satisfaction to those who are frustrated at the reality of the world. Broadcast starting date in Korea : 2017/05/13 More Codorniu reveals plans to move HQ from Catalonia to Rioja By Barnaby Eales Spanish wine and cava giant Codorniu has announced it is moving its holding companys headquarters from Catalonia to Rioja over the "uncertainty" surrounding the political conflict between Spain and Catalonia. Codorniu, based in Barcelona, said in a statement it had made the decision to move Unideco - its holding company, out of Catalonia in order to "guarantee the interests of its clients and employees in light of the political and legal uncertainty in Catalonia. Codornius move follows the announcement by Freixenet earlier this month that it too was considering moving its HQ out of Catalonia. On October 6th this year, the Spanish government approved legislation to fast-track the move of corporate HQ's out of Catalonia, by doing away with a legal requirement for shareholders to vote on such matters. Between them, the two companies account for about 80% of the 240 million bottles of cava made in Spain. Other smaller wine and cava companies have said they will stay in Catalonia, with some having voiced support for independence. However, the Catalan governments moves towards the establishment of an independent republic within the EU have come under pressure, with numerous large companies and banks moving their headquarters out of the region in recent weeks. Speaking to Harpers, a Codorniu spokesman denied the decision to move its HQ had been made for political reasons. We do not do politics, we sell wine and this is about providing legal certainty for our company and employees, he said. Codorniu confirmed that employees, offices and Codornius structural operations in Catalonia would remain unchanged in the region. Codornius decision comes after the Spanish government said yesterday that it had given the Catalan government until Thursday to renounce its quest to create the Republic of Catalonia, or it would suspend Catalonias home rule and aim to call regional elections. The threat follows the call by Catalonias government on Monday for dialogue without conditions with the Spanish government. The Spanish government, however, has said it would only dialogue with the Catalan government if it renounces its claim to independence. Codornius move comes amid growing threats of a boycott against Catalan products from other parts of Spain, which first emerged in the run-up to the Catalan governments independence referendum held 1 October this year. Some Catalan wine producers have in the past said they benefitted from a previous boycott in 2005 against Catalan products, which forced them to increase exports out of Spain. Established in 1551, Codorniu has vineyards in Spain, Argentina and California and in Rioja it operates under its majority-owned subsidiary Bodegas Bilbainas. New research backs up trend for drinking less By Michelle Perrett Almost half (44%) of British people are drinking less when going out, new research from purchasing company Beacon has revealed. The survey of 2,000 people found that drinking less was most prevalent amongst the over-55s (48%), followed closely by 18 to 24 year olds (45%). It also revealed the biggest influences for the decline in drinking were the rising cost of alcoholic drinks and health reasons. Scotland and the South East were the top regions drinking less than last year, according to the research, with over half of the respondents (50.6%) saying they had reduced their alcohol intake. The report said the dramatic reduction in Scotland could be due in part to the lowering of the countrys drink-drive limit in December 2014. In Northern Ireland 50% of people were drinking less, with 46.7% of people in the East Midlands having reduced their consumption and 46.6% in the South West. The research highlighted the seismic shift sweeping the nation with people moving away from traditional tipples of the past and reflected new trends such as healthy and thriftier living, said Beacon. We predict a continued rise in the importance of non-alcoholic drinks, lower alcohol alternatives and healthier drink choices as we move into 2018, said managing director, Paul Connelly. Why cant we have nice things? Thats the question, if not exactly the phrasing, so many conservatives are asking these days. Despite controlling the White House and both branches of Congress, the GOP cant get much done. Oh, House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell have talking points pushing back on this widespread impression. Ryans argument has some merit: The House has passed a good deal of legislation 305 bills, according to GovTrack.us. Admittedly, a lot of it is minor, but theres some meaty stuff as well, including Obamacare repeal-and-replace. The problem is that very little of it can get through the narrowly Republican-controlled Senate, the burial ground where the GOP elephant goes to die. Much of the blame goes to McConnell, particularly when the blame is being cast by President Trumps biggest supporters. Whether thats fair is the subject of much debate. While McConnell has made his share of mistakes, the scapegoating is often wildly overblown. As Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) recently explained on my new podcast, The Remnant, the GOP simply is not an ideologically unified party. There is not one GOP but several. In a sense, thats always been true of Republicans and Democrats. Political parties always have different ideological and regional factions. The late Minnesota Sen. Paul Wellstone used to claim he was from the Democratic wing of the Democratic Party, by which he meant he was an authentic progressive. FDRs coalition included progressive and socialist Jews and African-Americans as well as segregationist Democrats and progressive Republicans. Ronald Reagan unified movement conservatives and traditional East Coast Republicans as well as big swaths of conservative Democrats and even a few libertarians. Part of the problem is that we dont think of parties as coalitions of disparate ideological and geographic interests anymore. For much of American history, if you asked someone whether they were a Republican or Democrat, youd have to ask a follow-up question to learn whether they were a liberal or conservative, never mind what kind of liberal or conservative they were. Thanks to the trend of political polarization, we now expect ideological conformity to go hand in hand with party identification. And it does more than ever. For the first time in American history, party ID is more predictive of behaviors and attitudes than race, according to political scientists Shanto Iyengar and Sean Westwood (of Dartmouth and Stanford, respectively). Partisanship, for a long period of time, wasnt viewed as part of who we are, Westwood told The New York Times earlier this year. It wasnt core to our identity. It was just an ancillary trait. But in the modern era we view party identity as something akin to gender, ethnicity or race the core traits that we use to describe ourselves to others. So from one perspective, dysfunction in Congress is a good sign because it shows that partisanship doesnt override all other concerns. But thats cold comfort for Republicans, whod like to fulfill the promises they campaigned on for years now that they control Washington. But control requires consensus. The simple fact is that Republicans disagree for good reasons and bad on how to reform the tax code, fix health care and deal with immigration. In a Senate where Democrats are unified by nothing save their Trump hatred and where Republicans have only a two-seat majority, its virtually impossible to get agreement on any significant legislation, even under the arcane rules of reconciliation (which requires 51 votes instead of the 60 votes usually needed to override filibusters). But because we see things through a partisan-tribal lens, dissent from the party line or the Trump agenda is cast as betrayal, particularly by the loud rump faction represented by people such as ousted White House adviser Steve Bannon. To listen to the Bannonistas, McConnells failure to deliver the votes for Obamacare repeal or, soon, tax reform is a personal betrayal of Trump. Never mind that the U.S. Senate isnt the British Parliament, and the majority leader has little to no power to force 52 independently elected senators to do anything. Also, no Senate majority leader can compensate for a president unwilling or unable to unify the party. Bannon, a self-described nationalist who detests traditional conservatism and the establishment, is trying to turn McConnell into a boogeyman so that nationalist congressional challengers can topple Republican incumbents in primaries and advance Bannons (if not necessarily Trumps) agenda. I think that effort will fail. But even it were successful, it would only perpetuate the dysfunction, because that agenda doesnt unify the party. Nice things arent on the horizon. Alaska Native Leader Tara Mac Lean Sweeney Becomes First Female Native Alaskan Nominated for Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Sweeney would be the first Alaska Native to hold the position News Release from US DoI, October 17, 2017 WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke applauded President Donald J. Trump's nomination of Tara Mac Lean Sweeney, a prominent Alaska Native leader and acclaimed businesswoman with the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation, to be the departments next Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs. If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Sweeney, a member of the Native Village of Barrow and the Inupiat Community of the Arctic Slope, would be the first Native Alaskan and only the second woman in history to hold the position. The Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs oversees Interiors manifold responsibilities to enhance the quality of life, promote economic opportunity and provide quality educational opportunities for American Indians, Indian tribes and Alaska Natives, while protecting and improving their trust assets. Tara is a results-driven team leader and coalition builder who has an impressive combination of business acumen and service to her community, Secretary Zinke said. Her lifelong active engagement in Native American policy development and her outreach, advocacy, and organization skills are the combination we need to carry out the Presidents reform initiative for Indian Country. I look forward to welcoming her to our leadership team." I am honored to be nominated to serve Indian Country in this capacity, Tara Sweeney said. My goal is to develop strong relationships with Tribes, Alaska Native corporations and Native Hawaiian Organizations to work on innovative solutions for lifting up our communities. I am motivated to work with Indian Country to find efficiencies inside the Bureau of Indian Affairs, improve service delivery and culturally relevant curriculum in the Bureau of Indian Education, and create a more effective voice for Tribes throughout the Federal Government. I am humbled by the confidence President Trump and Secretary Zinke have shown in me and ready to serve. Secretary Zinkes nomination of Tara Sweeny for Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs taps a strong advocate for Native American self-determination and tribal self-government for this key leadership position,said Acting Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs John Tahsuda. Her extensive organizational knowledge and collaborative management experience will well serve Indian Country by reforming federal policies, empowering tribal communities, and removing barriers to their economic advancement. Sweeney grew up in rural Alaska and has spent a lifetime actively engaged in state and national policy arenas focused on advocating for responsible Indian energy policy, rural broadband connectivity, Arctic growth and Native American self-determination. She has served her Arctic Slope Regional Corporation and its subsidiaries in a variety of capacities for nearly two decades. The $2.6 billion corporation is the largest locally-owned and operated business in Alaska, with about 13,000 Inupiat Eskimo members and 12,000 employees worldwide. It is diversified in six major business sectors, including energy support services, industrial services, construction, petroleum refining and marketing, government services, and resource development. In her current role as the Executive Vice President of External Affairs, she is responsible for all facets of government affairs and corporate communications. Her primary responsibilities include strategic policy and position development, implementation and execution; engagement with federal and state executive and legislative branches on improving policies affecting Indian energy, taxation, resource development, government contracting, broadband development and access to capital; as well as all facets of corporate communication as official company spokesperson, including stakeholder engagement and coalition building. Sweeney also has served in leadership positions on numerous business and nonprofit boards at both the state and national level, including chair of the Arctic Economic Council from 2015 to 2017; co-chair of the Alaska Federation of Natives (2013); Coast Guard Foundation Board of Trustees; the University of Alaska Foundation Board of Trustees; FCC Advisory Committee on Diversity for Communications in a Digital Age; Analytical Services, Inc.; Kohanic Broadcast Corporation (parent to the first Native American owned, publicly supported FM radio station); Cherokee Nation New Market Tax Credit Advisory Board (CNB Economic Development Company, LLC, beneficiary); Breast Cancer Focus, Inc.; and Arctic Power. I extend my congratulations and full support to Tara on her nomination to serve as Assistant Secretary, Senator Lisa Murkowski said. Tara has a very strong record of professionalism and accomplishment in Alaska, across the country, and internationally, especially with the indigenous people of the circumpolar north. She has significant experience on Arctic issues and chaired the Arctic Economic Council. She is an expert on energy, infrastructure, broadband, economic development, Native self-determination, and a wide range of policy issues that will come before her. Secretary Zinke could not have chosen a better leader to help him fulfill the federal governments trust responsibility, and I know Tara has the heart and drive to excel in this position. This is a historic appointment for Alaskans and for the country, Senator Dan Sullivan said. Ive worked with Tara Sweeney for years and I have witnessed first-hand her integrity, her strong leadership skills and her devotion to public service. Tara has a deep love for our state and people, and is relentless in her commitment to securing a better future for Alaska and the nation. With her long history of advocating for Alaska Native cultural values, rights, and economic opportunity, I cant think of anyone better to have as our nations next Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs. This is an absolutely outstanding choice, said Congressman Don Young.Taras knowledge, experience and leadership will go a long way in straightening out the BIA, allowing it to run more efficiently for the good of all First Americans. She has extensive experience not only in business, but also within Alaska Native groups and organizations. Tara knows first-hand the fight for Native empowerment and self-determination because shes been on the front lines for years. Theres long been a problem with Native issues not receiving the priority they deserve but with Tara Sweeney at the helm, I have no doubt the Department of Interior will be paying close attention and the voices of our Native communities will be heard. Tara follows in great Alaskan footsteps, those of my dear friend Morris Thompson, and will do a fantastic job working on behalf of American Indians and Alaska Natives across the country. Taras selection for this position is cause for celebration in Alaska. In each of my conversations with Secretary Zinke, I have encouraged him to include Alaskans for significant roles in his department, said Governor Walker. Taras leadership in seeking self-determination and economic development for the people of the Arctic has been exemplary. As an Inupiaq tribal and corporate leader, she has sought the necessary balance between economic development and sustaining the ways of life and cultures of Alaskas First People. While many will be sad to see her leave ASRC, Taras expertise will serve our state and nation well in this new role. "I commend the Secretary for his choice of Tara Sweeney for the Position of Assistant Secretary," said Jackie Johnson Pata with the National Congress of American Indians. "Tara's diverse experience in the areas of energy, natural resources, and tribal governance will be a welcome addition to the Department of Interior and NCAI looks forward to working with Tara in her new capacity." Since March when he was sworn in, Secretary Zinke has been assembling a top-notch team of professionals to help him lead the Interior Department, said John Berrey, Chairman of the Quapaw Tribe in Oklahoma. With Tara Sweeneys nomination, the Secretary is showing he means business when it comes to reforming the BIA and improving the delivery of services to Indian people. Taras long and dedicated service to the Alaska Federation of Natives, the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation and, most recently, the Arctic Economic Council, will be what is needed in the BIAs top official. I thank the secretary for this nomination and pledge to help Tara achieve success for Native people any way I can. Ms. Sweeneys background consists of the right elements to assist our economic development efforts with the tribes we serve in Montana, Wyoming, North and South Dakota towards economic sustainability,said Leonard Smith, Executive Director of the Native American Development Corporation. Her experience in energy, capital, government contracting and economic development give her the depth of knowledge to develop legislative solutions to federal policies that hinder economic development with tribal nations. We feel confident she will be able to promote stronger federal support through collaboration with other federal, state and private resources for implementation of the infrastructure necessary for economic growth and sustainability. In these critical times, Ms. Tara Sweeney will serve as a strong Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, said Julie Kitka, President of the Alaska Federation of Natives. Her experience with empowering Native Americans is unparalleled and she will help all tribes achieve great self-determination. There is not a Tribe or Alaska Native corporation that she would not help. I have had the opportunity to work alongside Ms. Sweeney for over a decade, Ive seen her in action and she is driven by results. "Ms Sweeney is an incredibly qualified nominee," said Robin Puanani Danner, the Policy Chair for the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement. "Her business experience, the cultural grounding of her Inuit people, and her keen understanding of living in some of the most remote Native areas in the country will serve all first peoples in her role at the department of interior." Tara is a dedicated, hard-working and fearless leader focused on providing value and real results across local, national and international boundaries, said Gabriel Kompkoff, President of the ANCSA Regional Association, the membership association of Alaska Native Regional Corporation CEOs. Her passion shows through in every challenge she faces. Among her honors, Sweeney -- a lifetime member of the National Congress of American Indians -- was crowned Miss NCAI in 1993 and traveled the country as an ambassador for the organization. In 2003, Governor Frank Murkowski recognized Sweeneys passion for rural Alaska, appointing her to his cabinet as Special Assistant for Rural Affairs and Education. In 2008 she was honored as a Top Forty Under 40 business leader by the Alaska Journal of Commerce. In 2014 her team was honored by the Northwest Regional Emmy Awards, for its IAM INUPIAQ commercial campaign 2014, and also served as co-chair for Senator Dan Sullivans (R-AK) successful Senate campaign. In 2017 she was inducted into the Anchorage ATHENA Society, a program of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce that encourages the potential of women as valued members and leaders of the business community. Born to Dr. Bryan Mac Lean and the Late Representative Eileen Panigeo Mac Lean, Sweeney is the granddaughter of the Late May Ahmaogak Panigeo and the Late Henry Panigeo of Barrow. She is the great granddaughter of the Late Bert and Nellie Panigeo and Isabel and Dr. Roy Ahmaogak. She was raised, attended schools and lived most of her life in rural Alaska in villages from Noorvik to Wainwright, Barrow, Bethel, and Unalakleet. She graduated from Barrow High School in 1991. A 1998 graduate of Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations with a Bachelor of Science Degree, Sweeney currently lives in Anchorage with her husband Kevin, and their two children, Caitlin and Ahmaogak. Through its Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and Bureau of Indian Education (BIE), Interior provides services (directly or through contracts, grants or compacts) to 1.9 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. There are 567 federally recognized American Indian tribes and Alaska Native corporations in the United States. The BIE provides education services to about 42,000 Indian students. The Indian trust, co-managed by BIA and the Office of the Special Trustee, consists of 55 million surface acres and 57 million acres of subsurface mineral estate. More than 11 million acres belong to individual Indians and nearly 44 million acres are held in trust for Indian tribes. On these lands, the Department manages more than 122,817 revenue-producing leases. In conjunction with the Department of the Treasury, Interior, also manages about $4.9 billion in Indian trust funds. In Fiscal Year 2016, $1.2 billion was received into and disbursed from tribal and individual Indian beneficiaries accounts. Develop fast co-ordinated response protocol Organisations need to review their incident response policies and procedures to ensure the protocols enable immediate response and a co-ordinated approach across the organisation to notifying regulators, keeping records and ensuring site preservation. Train your managers in implementing your protocol A protocol is only helpful if it is activated in practice. Providing managers on the ground with key contacts and key initial steps should be part of your protocol so that immediate notifications occur in practice. Notification issues often emerge where there is a disconnect between corporate, HR, legal functions and management on the ground. Organisations should also test these aspects of their systems when conducting emergency drills. Get legal involved early If you have experienced an incident requiring notification to a health and safety regulator, it is a serious incident where multiple legal actions may arise. The first 24 hours of incident response, investigation and evidence gathering is critical in that context. Your incident protocols should 'triage' incident types and provide for legal support in notifiable incidents. Appoint key personnel for incident management Incident response protocols work best when they appoint key internal personnel to manage liaison with various stakeholders including regulators following the immediate notification requirements. This enables consistent approaches to dealing with regulators across the business. That point person can determine whether the incident is notifiable, attend to the written notifications following verbal notification and determine whether legal or other support is required. Australia, there have been more than 10 prosecutions for failure to notify a health and safety regulator of a notifiable incident over the past 12 months.Moreover, since April 2015, there have been at least 33 such prosecutions - 16 of which occurred in Victoria.And in the most recent incident notification prosecution in Queensland, the Toowoomba Magistrates Court imposed a significant penalty of $25,000.In determining whether to prosecute such failures, regulators look at a range of factors including the seriousness of the offence and the extent to which the regulator wants to send a message to that company or the community as a whole, according to Clyde & Co Partner Alena Titterton."Incidents are only required to be notified when something very serious has happened, usually in the context of a serious injury, illness or death," said Titterton.In those circumstances, you are also likely to see workers compensation claims.Those other proceedings will come to the attention of regulators.For example, the Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) discovered an incident in the recent prosecution of KFS Fuel Services Pty Ltd.In this incident on 10 April 2013, a worker employed by the defendant sustained head injuries while pressure testing the tank compartment of a road fuel tanker.However, the defendant did not notify the regulator in any manner and WHSQ only became aware 17 months and 10 days after the incident when it was notified by lawyers acting for the injured worker.The defendants actions were serious given it was aware of its obligation to notify and exacerbated because the injured worker's stepfather was a managing director.The defendant entered into voluntary administration within months of WHSQ being notified."Once discovered, a failure to notify will bring even greater scrutiny of the relevant incident," said Titterton.According to Clyde & Co, when regulators are determining whether to prosecute for the more serious duty of care offences (which carry potential penalties up to $3 million), a failure to notify the incident would be considered an aggravating circumstance.Additionally, persons conducting a business or undertaking need to notify the relevant regulator immediately after becoming aware that a notifiable incident has occurred.Moreover, there are jurisdiction-specific requirements around timeframes for, and form of, written notices.In most jurisdictions, failure to comply attracts potential penalties of up to $50,000 for organisations and $10,000 for individuals. Australias Registered Training Organisations will get a $2.2-million boost from the construction industry to reduce deaths and serious injuries on construction sites, especially given projections that thousands of jobs will be created in the sector in the next five years. A report by the Australian Skills Quality Authority that said 80 percent of RTOs fail their initial audit, and noncompliance was mostly in areas relating to Learning and Assessment practices and resources. Worksafe also said that there occur more than 600 serious injuries per month and a death every two weeks on construction sites across Asutralia. Skills Oz, owned and operated by the construction and property services sector, is funding the development of education material to improve training in the sector. CEO Phillip Charlton said the program includes 160 units of competency developed in partnership with construction companies, industry experts, regulators, trainers and curriculum designers to ensure it reflected exactly what the industry needed to improve workplace safety records. With the construction and property industry forecasted to create an additional 80,000 jobs over the next five years, employers and stakeholders in the construction and property services sectors are rightly concerned about the current industry standards, productivity and workplace health and safety, Mr Charlton said. Skills Oz, which represents 1.8 million Australian workers, is a subsidiary of the Construction and Property Services Industry Council (CPSISC). It will offer the industry-led resources at no cost to TAFE, RTOs, colleges and high schools and trainers delivering courses and qualifications in the construction and property services sector. Public perception and industrys trust of our RTO system has been undermined in recent years due to misuse of public funding by some organisations and inconsistencies across courses and qualifications and skills, Charlton said. Todays RTOs are under continued pressure to deliver relevant, industry-focussed and affordable training for the jobs of tomorrow. We feel the best people to assist with updating the training platforms are the people working at the coalface of the sector the construction companies and the industry experts. We worked with them to develop this platform, he said. He added the program envisioned skilled workers who returned safe to their families every night. In developing the program, Skills Oz consulted with members such as Housing Industry Association (HIA), Consulting Surveyors National, Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia, CFMEU, Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union, First National Real Estate, Australian Security Industry Association Limited and Surveying and Spatial Science Institute. Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia CEO Ken Gardner believes the whole industry must work together to update the sectors training resources. There is an ongoing need for quality training resources to support mobility of labour in Australia and to underpin mutual recognition of qualifications and licensed occupations, he said. Of course its noteworthy that the chairperson of the Finns Partys largest district organisation joins the Blues, Terho commented to Uusi Suomi on Monday. Sampo Terho (BR), the Minister of European Affairs, Culture and Sports, has expressed his delight after Pekka Sinisalo announced he will resign his position at the district organisation of the Finns Party in Uusimaa and join the Blue Reform. Sinisalo announced earlier yesterday he will step down as the chairperson of the district organisation and, with a heavy heart, relinquish his membership in the Finns Party, explaining that he no longer recognises the party as the political movement he joined almost 15 years ago. The party has become a single-issue movement, he stated in a press release. The Blue Reform began its transformation from an association into a fully-fledged political party on Monday by submitting a total of 5,300 support cards to the Ministry of Justice. A total of 5,000 support cards from citizens entitled to vote are required for entering a new party to the party register. Some members of the association have estimated that the successful completion of the registration process will encourage more policy makers to leave the Finns Party and join the Blue Reform. I believe theres more to come, said Terho. Aleksi Teivainen HT Photo: Vesa Moilanen Lehtikuva Source: Uusi Suomi TWO hundred years on from Jane Austens death, Sense and Sensibility remains one of her most enduringly popular works. Anyone who has a sister or a best friend can relate to the plot and who can forget the instant infatuation of Kate Winslets Marianne during her romantic rescue by the dashing Willoughby in the hugely successful film version? Olivier-award winning local author Jessica Swale proved the tale could also grace the stage by captivating audiences with her skilful rendering of the book for the Watermill Theatre at Bagnor. Now the Henley Players are joining in 2017s bicentenary celebrations of Jane Austens life and works with their production of Swales adaption. Austen remains one of the most perennially popular and loved authors in the English language. Her characters live on in our imaginations, her wit and wisdom are timeless giving her a fan base which extends across ages and countries. Here in the UK, we associate her with Bath and Winchester, but there are more than 5,000 members of Jane Austen societies across North America and Canada. Regency England is recreated every year in Canberra, whilst in Italy the Jane Austen Society is celebrating every novel in a grand tour of different Italian cities. Even in Singapore, balls and costumed readings prosper. Each to their own, as Austen intimated in Sense and Sensibility. At one point she has Elinor Dashwood say: I wish, as well as everybody else, to be perfectly happy; but, like everybody else, it must be in my own way. Here in Henley, the Kenton Theatre is celebrating Austens life and works with three events this autumn the first of which last month saw Oscar winner Hayley Mills read an abridged version of Pride and Prejudice set to music from the 1995 BBC television adaptation. The evening of Wednesday, November 13, will see the historian and presenter Lucy Worsley give a talk based on her book Jane Austen at Home. This promises to explore the authors life through the places and spaces that meant the most to her. For now, though, it is the turn of the Henley Players, whose production of Sense and Sensibility runs from Wednesday (October 18) to Saturday, October 21. Evening performances are at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2.30pm on the Saturday. When her wealthy stepson, urged on by his money-grabbing wife, cheats them of their fortune, Mrs Henry Dashwood and her three daughters, Elinor, Marianne and Margaret, are left penniless. They are forced to leave the comforts of Norland Park, their family home, and rely upon the charity of a distant relative, Sir John Middleton, and relocate to chilly Barton Cottage in Devonshire. However, the arrival of a handsome stranger, John Willoughby, at the cottage with a rain-drenched Marianne in his arms, leads the sisters to believe that their fortunes are changed forever. But have they? The plays director Julie Huntington told the Henley Standard how delighted she was as an Austen fan to be bringing Sense and Sensibility to the Kenton. She said: This is not only the 200th anniversary of Jane Austens death she also now appears on our new tenners! I had fallen in love with Austens work at school and this adaptation by Jessica Swale has reignited my passion for her. It is dynamic, fast-moving and very funny, but also has great depth and does not miss the opportunity for social comment. The cast and I have had a ball during rehearsals and cannot wait to bring the piece to the Kenton stage. I hope it will help audiences fall in love with Janes work all over again, as did I. To book tickets, call (01491) 575698 or visit www.kentontheatre.co.uk Irish businesses travelling to Australia with President Michael D Higgins have signed a string of deals. Forklift supplier Combilift, healthcare technology company Oneview and foreign exchange specialist Fexco are among 14 companies to announce significant trade deals during the President's ongoing State visit. Today, Mr Higgins and Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald will arrive in Sydney to attend a business lunch as part of the Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland trade and investment programme - the biggest of its kind to the country. Enterprise Ireland aims to double Irish exports to Australia by 2020 and this is the largest programme of trade activity it has undertaken in the region, with 55 clients flying to Australia to promote their products. They operate in nine industries, including digital technology, building, engineering and consumer products. The 14 firms who signed trade deals will work with partners including Qantas, Telstra, the University of Sydney, Bunnings, and Sydney Children's Hospital. Exposed Enterprise Ireland said that, of the 55 companies participating, 27 were not yet exporting to the Australian market and 16 were heavily exposed to Brexit. CEO Julia Sinnamon said Ireland's trade links with Australia were even more important in the wake of Britain's decision to leave the European Union. She said it was essential to ensure companies are "Brexit-proof". "It's about making sure we continue to reduce our dependence on the UK," she added. Last year, more than 300 Enterprise Ireland clients racked up exports of 256m to Australia. This marks an increase of 14pc from 2015. The Asia-Pacific was the second-fastest-growing region for Enterprise Ireland-backed companies, up 16pc in 2016. Ms Sinnamon said that "an open mind and an agility and understanding of working with cultures" had helped Ireland prosper overseas. Ms Fitzgerald arrived in Canberra yesterday. "Building awareness internationally of the Irish capability in key sectors is critically important, particularly in light of Brexit," she said. Since June 2016, her department has intensified its efforts to increase export market penetration and "diversification of Irish companies into alternative markets", she added. A spokesman for the President said he and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull discussed business ties between the countries and the fact there are more than 130 Irish companies in Australia and 40 Australian companies operating in Ireland. Paul Lillicrap has 100 convictions but is now totally off drugs A shoplifter who has been in and out of prison for years due to his drug dependency has told a court he is finally clean and wants to stay out of trouble for his two children's sake. Paul Lillicrap (37) was stealing to feed his addictions to tablets and heroin. He now claims he is anxious to be around to see his children growing up. Dun Laoghaire District Court heard he is off all drugs, including methadone. Judge Anne Watkin praised Lillicrap for his achievement and ordered him to enter into a probation supervision bond for two years. The defendant, of Cedar Court, Ballybrack, Co Dublin, admitted stealing cosmetics, valued at 247, from a pharmacy in Dun Laoghaire on November 25, 2015. Gardai said Lillicrap was identified on CCTV as the culprit and he later admitted stealing the goods. Convictions The court heard Lillicrap has 100 previous convictions, including a large number of theft-related matters. He has spent most of this year in custody. Defence solicitor Ronnie Lynam told the court that Lillicrap has been "in and out of prison for years". He added that he first started taking heroin 17 years ago and developed a problem with sleeping tablets five years ago. The solicitor told the court Lillicrap has now completely detoxed and is also free from methadone. Lillicrap said he had only detoxed from all drugs once before, in 2010, and he was "really anxious" to stay clean this time. He was also working with the addiction services to help him stay away from drugs. Imposing a probation bond, Judge Watkin told Lillicrap that coming off all drugs was "an achievement". Delays in starting the construction of a Metro North rail service for Dublin has led business leaders to strongly criticise the Government. The lack of a rapid rail link between Dublin Airport and the north of the city centre is costing jobs and much-needed investment, Dublin Chamber of Commerce has warned. It has called on the Government to ensure Metro North is delivered as soon as possible. Transport Minister Shane Ross last week said work will not begin until 2021, with the project scheduled to open to passengers in 2026. The chamber said a direct rail link to the airport is one of the key pieces of infrastructure companies are looking for when considering relocating to Ireland. Mary Rose Burke, chief executive of the chamber, said Metro North is urgently needed to address ever-worsening congestion in Dublin. "We've been talking about Metro North for far too long," she said. "Starting work on Metro North would send a signal to the people and businesses of Dublin - and also workers and companies looking to locate here in light of Brexit - that Ireland is serious about addressing the current infrastructure deficits that threaten to stifle growth, "Conservative estimates suggest congestion in the Greater Dublin Area will cost the Irish economy more than 2bn per annum by 2033. "The lack of a rail link between the city and the airport makes an underwhelming impression upon business travellers and potential foreign investors," she added. Fingal was the fastest growing county in Ireland in the five years to 2016, when its population grew by more than 22,000. Growth "A new rail link is needed not only to serve Dublin Airport, but also to cater for more than 40,000 additional people who will be commuting into the city centre from north Co Dublin within the next six years," said Ms Burke. "Passenger numbers through Dublin Airport are expected to exceed 36 million by 2022, up from 28 million last year. A new rail link will go a long way to supporting such strong growth." The chamber also called for the forthcoming 10-year Capital Plan to clarify when work will begin on the Dart Underground project - an 8.6km tunnel from Inchicore to East Wall, linking with Pearse Street and Heuston stations. Hospital outpatient clinics in Dublin and across the country will reopen today, but some waiting list patients who were due to undergo surgery will have their operations postponed in the wake of the storm. Urgent procedures are being prioritised and will go ahead. The HSE has warned it will be several days before health services return to normal. There is likely to be a surge in attendances at A&E departments and GP clinics, as patients who had been forced to stay at home yesterday seek medical care. Obstructed Storm Ophelia caused major disruption to healthcare yesterday, with the cancellation of hospital outpatient clinics in the interest of public safety. Many patients whose appointments were cancelled had waited months, or even more than a year, to see a specialist. Health Minister Simon Harris said the message for patients today is, "if you have an appointment turn up as planned, unless you hear otherwise. In the event of a cancellation, people will be contacted. "People can expect some delays in their appointments and discharges from hospitals over the next few days." A spokesman for the HSE said yesterday the disruption in the coming days is due to "a number of factors, including road conditions, building damage, power outages and disruption to full staffing levels". It has left health services playing "catch-up". The storm obstructed services in many communities, with some public health nurses and home helps having to curtail visits to the homes of sick and elderly people. Hospital A&E departments had 359 patients on trolleys at lunchtime yesterday - more than a third higher than the same day last year. More than 200 were waiting for a bed for in excess of nine hours. Although attendances were generally down, the overcrowding was exacerbated by the inability to discharge many patients due to the bad weather and the risk they faced without proper home care or other supports. It meant even fewer beds for emergency patients. Cork University Hospital and Galway University Hospital were worst hit. However, hospitals in the south, which was lashed by the storm, were also badly hit. The HSE spokesman stressed the "safety of patients and clients travelling at this time is paramount". He pointed out that, in the event that patients or clients deem it unsafe to travel for an appointment, the service concerned will reschedule the appointment as quickly as possible. Vulnerable The main focus of community services will be visiting the most vulnerable people. Hospitals will try to discharge elderly patients to the most appropriate facilities as quickly as possible, he added. Mr Harris said yesterday was a "difficult and challenging one for our health services and I want to thank all of those who came to work today and went above and beyond". He asked anyone who does not have an urgent need to attend their hospital or GP today to stay away. Insurance companies have confirmed that household and motor policies will cover storm-related damage and are braced for claims that could be worth up to 800m. However, there are fears that home insurance premiums will rise if there is a large number of hefty claims. Householders had feared that insurers would claim the impact of Ophelia was an "act of God" and refuse to pay out. However, Insurance Ireland, the umbrella body for the industry, said motor insurance cover will operate as normal. Household buildings and contents insurance policies will cover damage caused by storms. "This is not impacted by the weather conditions," a spokesman said. Damage to cars caused by the storm is covered by comprehen- sive motor insurance policies. Receipts Third party, fire and theft policies cover motorists for damage to other cars in the event of an accident, injury to other people or damage to your car in the event of a fire or theft. Insurers will usually pay for the cost of temporary repairs, the insurance representative body said. Householders were advised to keep receipts. A spokesman said: "Insurers will also usually pay for the cost of alternative accommodation if the home becomes uninhabitable." Householders were told to check the full extent of their policies and contact their insurer or broker after the event if there was damage. Insurance Ireland boss Kevin Thompson said insurers had paid out 1.3bn in storm-damage claims in the past three years. However, insurance experts warned that a high cost of claims is likely to prompt a rise in motor and home premiums. Jonathan Hehir, the managing director of brokerage Coverinaclick.ie, warned that premiums on home insurance may rise if there was a high volume and high cost of claims. "If there are a lot of claims, that potentially could see premiums going up, especially on the household side if there are floods," he said. He added that insurers may reject claims if people did something unwise, such as driving through six feet of water during a flood. Emergency responses were seen across the country as homeless charities and local authorities scrambled to ensure there was accommodation for all rough sleepers when Storm Ophelia hit yesterday. In Dublin city alone, it is understood that some 368 rough sleepers were put up in a number of different locations . This was 300 more than would usually use overnight accommodation, according to the Peter McVerry Trust. Offer Those who took advantage of the services were provided with camp beds or sleeping bags. Around 50 sleeping bags were provided by the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive to the Capuchin Centre, who made enough room for 120 homeless people. Francis Doherty, of the Peter McVerry Trust, said the public's help ensured they located most of the city's rough sleepers. "We went out and engaged with as many rough sleepers as possible," said Mr Doherty. "There were some that turned down the offer but most did not." Mr Doherty said the charity was alerted to incidents of people sleeping in pop-up tents along Clontarf coast. City councillor Christy Burke and a team from the Inner City Helping Homeless (ICHH) are understood to have been out until midnight in order to ensure that nobody was left sleeping on the streets. "It's been hectic, but so far a lot of homeless are indoors. We might get some people that stay out, it's crazy," Mr Burke said. "Brother Kevin of the Capuchin Centre says he doesn't want to see anyone on the street, he wants them all brought in." Those staying at the Capuchin Centre began arriving at around noon yesterday in order to avoid the storm. Meanwhile, emergency one-night accommodation hostels have also been opened on a 24-hour basis. They have been put in place by charities across the country, with Novas in Limerick similarly attempting to take in as many rough sleepers as possible. Last night, Una Burns from Novas said: "We're open 24 hours until at least tomorrow evening. "It's been absolutely chock-a-block all day. "We will take in anyone who presents themselves." The Society of St Vincent de Paul expects to fill two hostels in Cork, along with hostels in Waterford, Limerick, Galway, Wexford, Carlow, Longford and Donegal. The Irish Kitesurfing Association has defended the "shocking behaviour" of windsurfers who had to be assisted by the emergency services yesterday while out at sea, just hours before Ophelia struck. The group insisted that the five windsurfers who were in the sea off Blackrock, Co Louth, yesterday morning "were out in moderate-to-strong conditions which had been risk assessed". "At some point members of the public became concerned and gardai spent some time trying to call them in," said spokesman Colm Murphy. At 10.20am, the Irish Coast Guard was dispatched to assist, along with the Clogherhead lifeboat and Greenore Coast Guard. The windsurfers made their way to shore unharmed. But there was much condemnation of their actions yesterday as the country prepared for the worst. "It must be stressed that we, as watersports enthusiasts, study the maps and weather charts comprehensively all the time," said Mr Murphy. "Decisions will have been made on Sunday night to risk assess the conditions, knowing that the winds would be lighter until 1pm on the east coast. "It is unfortunate that the emergency services were called to assist experienced surfers who were not in danger." A spokesman for the Irish Coast Guard said that the windsurfers were able to make their own way back to shore, but reminded people that the advice was to "stay back, stay high and stay dry" and avoid the winds (below). He added that the Rescue 116 helicopter as well as the Greenore Coast Guard and Clogherhead lifeboat had responded to the incident. Warning Gardai from Dundalk spoke to the windsurfers afterwards. "Our message is to heed the weather warning, which is the highest that we have. It is not issued lightly," said Clogherhead spokesman Gerry Kelly. Louth county councillor Maria Doyle criticised the windsurfers. "People are shocked at anybody putting the emergency services at risk. This is thrill-seeking type of behaviour and it is shocking," she said. Elsewhere, footage emerged of a man swimming in Salthill, Co Galway, while Storm Ophelia raged. The man was seen swimming along the promenade as waves crashed against the shore. A woman told RTE Radio One's Liveline that people had been swimming at the Forty Foot in south Dublin. Transport Minister Shane Ross said earlier: "Everyone should be staying indoors. The whole emphasis for today is on safety, keeping people alive." A fatal vehicle accident occurred at about 8 a.m. Monday on Highway 72 on the east edge of Fredericktown, closing the highway for nearly three hours. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred just east of the North Chamber Drive intersection when the 2000 Peterbilt Conventional driven by Samuel R. Kranawetter, 23, of Jackson, made an abrupt stop, causing aluminum beams to shift forward through the front of the trailer and the rear of the tractor, impacting and pinning the driver. Kranawetter was pronounced dead at the scene by Madison County Coroner Collin Follis at 8:19 a.m. The body was taken to the coroner's office in Madison County. The scene was cleared and the highway was reopened about 10:55 a.m. Several people were injured in a fatal crash Sunday at 12:10 p.m. at Highway 47 and Route E in Washington County. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol report, Tamara Avery, 54, of St. Louis, was driving her 2012 Chevy Cruz northbound on Highway 47 when she traveled into the path of Stephanie Hawes, 32, of Bonne Terre, in her 2007 Jeep Cherokee. The front of Haws Jeep struck the left side of Averys car. Avery was taken by Washington County Ambulance to Washington County Memorial Hospital and was pronounced dead at by Dr. Eke at 2:56 p.m. Averys passenger, Paul Avery, 54, of St. Louis, was airlifted by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital-St. Louis. Both were wearing their seat belts. Haws was moderately injured and her passenger Abbie Haws, 14, of Bonne Terre, received minor injuries. Both were wearing their seat belts and were taken by private conveyance to Parkland Health Center. A motorcyclist was airlifted to a St. Louis hospital after being involved in a motor vehicle accident on Burks Road in Farmington Monday afternoon. Farmington Police and Fire Departments responded to an accident in the 100 block of Burks Road about 4:30 p.m. Monday when a motorcycle and delivery vehicle for Les Hays Paper Hanging and Painting collided. The owner of the motorcycle was airlifted to St. Louis by Air Evac as a result of injuries sustained in the accident. A pedestrian was injured by a car Saturday afternoon while taking a walk in Bonne Terre City Park. According to Big River Fire Department Assistant Chief Allen Stegall, the department responded to a 12:06 p.m. call reporting a woman had been hit by a car while walking in the park. The woman was transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries. BRISTOL, Va. Bristol Virginia Democrat Committee is hosting a Candidate Meet & Greet for the upcoming General Election. Bristol, Virginia, voters are invited to the event to meet Cloe Eva Barker, candidate for commissioner of Revenue and Joe Mink, candidate for sherriff. The Meet & Greet provides the opportunity for each candidate to present an introduction and for voters to speak with the candidates. Voter information and light refreshments will be available. It will take place at the J. Henry Kegley Meeting Room at the Bristol Public Library from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 19. For more information, contact Bristol Virginia Democratic Committee Chair Ed Harlow at 423-571-0691. Election Day is Nov. 7. The White House said it was acting on the recommendation of the Justice Department - that it was canceling illegal federal subsidies that helped sustain the Affordable Care Act. President Donald Trump said what he was doing would hurt the insurance companies only: "That's not going to people; that's making insurance companies rich," he said, adding: "That money is going to insurance companies to prop up their stock price." But former top Trump White House aide Stephen Bannon told a very different tale this weekend. And it will confirm what every opponent of the move already suspected: that Trump was trying to cause Obamacare to fail. In the midst of playing up Trump's accomplishments Saturday at the "Values Voters Summit" in Washington, Bannon turned to Trump's controversial Obamacare executive order the day before. "Then you had Obamacare," Bannon said. Trump is "not gonna make the [cost-sharing reduction] payments. Gonna blow that thing up. Gonna blow those exchanges up, right?" Trump's decision to cancel about $7 billion in annual federal payments to subsidize the policies of low-income Americans will clearly test the resilience of the already-strained Obamacare marketplaces. Whether that was the intention is for all of us to speculate upon. At the very least, it seems to be a perhaps-intentional side effect for a president who ran hard against the Affordable Care Act and has lashed out at the Republicans who were unable to repeal and replace the law. Less convenient for Trump, of course, is the possibility that voters will punish him for hurting the most vulnerable Americans for purely political reasons - an eventuality of which I'm more skeptical than many critics of Trump's move. But the idea that this was a craven political move to actually cause Obamacare to fail - rather than a move just abiding by the law and/or that only hurt insurance companies - is completely confirmed by Bannon's commentary. I'm not sure Bannon didn't intend to make that contradictory implication - no matter how unhelpful it might seem to his former boss. Bannon, after all, no longer works for Trump, which means anything he says carries with it the kind of plausible deniability for which the White House has already shown a huge affinity. Bannon can tell the GOP base that Trump just "blew up" Obamacare, and it's not clear that this is a sanctioned message from the White House. But if the Affordable Care Act does implode, and especially if Congress doesn't pass something to help stabilize it, Bannon's comments would seem to complicate things for Trump. Here we have one of the president's top allies promoting the idea that Trump just acted deliberately to undermine the insurance policies that many poor Americans have come to rely upon. However you feel about the law, that's a pretty brazenly dangerous way of doing business. And even if you think that was just acting according to the law, it completely flies in the face of Trump's pledge that this would hurt insurers rather than regular people. If those marketplaces do indeed "blow up," real people's lives will be affected - not just the insurers. Trump himself has suggested that won't be the case, but Bannon clearly disagrees. It at the very least behooves the administration to try to square those versions of events. If Bannon is a rogue actor and they don't agree with his assessment of how this will affect Americans relying on Obamacare policies, by all means say that. But if this wouldn't, in fact, "blow up" Obamacare, then the White House should explain why Bannon is wrong. A White House document arguing for tighter immigration laws states that "immigrants who come here illegally and enter the workforce undermine job opportunities and reduce wages for American workers, as does the abuse of visa programs." The Wall Street Journal editorial page, hardly a bastion of bleeding-heart liberalism, comments acidly: "What alternative economy are they living in?" "The real labor problem is a shortage, as the jobless rate has hit 4.2 percent nationwide," adds the Journal. "America's tight visa caps are sending high-tech jobs to Canada and agricultural production to Mexico." The Trump White House is living in several "alternative" universes, and its approach to tax cuts is even more financially irresponsible than its assault on immigrants. Government officials have repeatedly stated that reduced tax rates would "pay for themselves" by generating extra economic growth. But that claim has no basis in fact. "We searched high and low and found no economic experts who could point us to evidence of tax cuts fully paying for themselves," reports CNN. The nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget accuses the administration of making a "false claim" and "relying on magic bullets and fairy dust to pay for tax cuts." Another false claim bedeviling the administration was made by economics adviser Gary Cohn: "The wealthy are not getting a tax cut under our plan." Washington Post fact-checkers labeled it a "ridiculous statement" and "one of the biggest myths spread by Trump and his aides." Wealthy taxpayers would benefit enormously from administration proposals to lower individual rates, while canceling both the alternative minimum tax and the estate tax. A New York Times analysis concludes that Trump and his heirs would enjoy a $1.1 billion windfall under his tax plan. Fairy dust has infected the administration's political thinking, as well. Since Republicans hold only 52 seats in the Senate, they have a very small margin for error, and yet the president keeps alienating GOP lawmakers with abusive taunts and threats of political retaliation. His latest target is Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, who he derided as "Liddle Bob" in a recent tweet. Corker, however, is a key player on both foreign and fiscal policy, and Trump will need his support on a host of upcoming issues, from Iranian relations to spending blueprints. "Under the normal, traditional rules of politics of the last 40 years of my life, a president would not poke a senator in the eye when he has a two-seat majority and a major legislative agenda needing to be accomplished," former GOP Congressman Thomas M. Reynolds told The New York Times. Trump and his team would argue that these are not "normal" or "traditional" times. And it's certainly true that the president won the election by defying political rules and defeating more conventional candidates like Jeb Bush and Hillary Clinton. But running the country is a very different task than running for office. Passing legislation requires expanding alliances, not driving supporters away. And while Trump has upended a lot of political assumptions, he has not repealed the principles of mathematics or majority rule. He attracted only 46.1 percent of the popular vote and trailed Clinton by almost 3 million ballots. His approval rating hovers at historic lows -- 36 percent in the latest Gallup poll -- but he keeps acting like a candidate, not a president, firing up his base of hardcore loyalists but failing to establish a broad coalition that can govern effectively. "Donald Trump got elected with minority support from the American electorate, and most of his efforts thus far are focused on energizing and solidifying the 40 percent of Americans who were with him, primarily by attacking the 60 percent who were not," Republican pollster Whit Ayres told the Washington Post. "That is great for his supporters, but it makes it very difficult to accomplish anything in a democracy." The Trump presidency is rooted in myth, not reality; fantasy, not facts. He's an entertainer, not an executive; a magician, not a manager. As Corker said in the Times, "When I watch his performances, you know, it very much feels to me like he thinks as president he's on a reality television show. ... It's like he's doing 'The Apprentice' or something. He's just putting on an act." Corker's right, with an ironic and dangerous twist: In this reality show, Trump is the apprentice, not the boss. He's the amateur, not the pro. But he has a four-year contract and no one can fire him, despite his disastrous first season. Steve and Cokie Roberts can be contacted by email at stevecokie@gmail.com The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) came into being shortly after Russia launched the Sputnik satellite 60 years ago. On May 25, 1961, President John F. Kennedy promised Americans that before the decade was out, the U.S. would land a man on the moon and return him to Earth. NASA spent 11 years and $25.4 billion to reach that goal and Americans enthusiastically supported the endeavor. When Neil Armstrong took his first steps on the moon in 1969, there was a heady sense that man was no longer fettered to Earth. The entire universe beckoned and the United States was leading the way. But within just a few years, American enthusiasm for space travel began to wane. In 1972, NASA shut the Apollo space program down. Since then, human space flight has been limited to within Earths orbit. When the space shuttle program ended in 2011, so did Americas manned space flights. Nowadays our astronauts bum rides from Russia to get back and forth from the International Space Station. So, it was exciting to hear Vice President Pence address a recently resurrected National Space Council on October 5. He told the gathered that the U.S. would regain its leadership role in space exploration by returning to the moon as early as next year and eventually sending a manned mission to Mars. With a sense of urgency, he warned of the advances China and Russia have made in space technology and said the U.S. needed to address these emerging threats. The Times-Dispatch has long supported manned space exploration, and we applaud the Trump administrations goals to return to space. Exploring the unknown is part of who we are as humans. And the advancements by China and Russia add a new sense of urgency to our renewed commitment to space research. But not everyone is excited about the proposal. In an opinion piece for the Washington Post, columnist David Von Drehle argues that space travel is expensive and unnecessary. He notes that weve been to the moon, and theres nothing there. He asks why we should waste precious dollars to build settlements on distant wastelands when we should be making life better here on Earth. Yes, there will always be ample reasons to spend money here. But no matter how much we spend, there will always be a need for more. Reaching for the stars with one hand is just as important as extending the other to help our fellow humans. And, we note that from GPS to weather monitoring to improved, lighter-weight pacemakers and thousands of other inventions, we have benefited immensely from our ventures into space. There are undoubtedly countless more discoveries waiting to be found in space and on Mars. But we wont know until we get there. Lets go. 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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 This domain has expired. If you owned this domain, contact your domain registration service provider for further assistance. If you need help identifying your provider, visit https://www.tucowsdomains.com/ The CPI(M) is lurching from one misstep to another in getting the party electorally relevant. The raging yet unsettled debate in the party whether it should have an electoral understanding with the Congress is just another sign of this. This came soon after the party cited technical grounds against giving its general secretary Sitaram Yechury another term in the Rajya Sabha, where it was getting into the limelight disproportionate to its numbers owing to Yechurys seniority and acceptability. Kerala chief minister and CPI(M) politburo member Pinarayi Vijayan once famously said: You guys know nothing about this party. Whether the party knows what it is doing to itself is a question that begs an answer. For all the theories it can spout for elections being not any major part of the CPI(M)s political existence, its grand ambition about making the party a movement among the people, expanding its catchment area remains elusive. The Left has traditionally enjoyed space in forming public opinion in the country and it enjoys the support of many sympathisers in public life mostly from the elite who seem oblivious to their declining numbers in the Lok Sabha. Whatever the Left is known for in the country is also because of some of the policies they introduced while being in power-- whether in West Bengal or Kerala-- or while enjoying close proximity to power. The Left parties, particularly the CPI(M) often take credit for the rural employment guarantee scheme the UPA 1 government had implemented. So, the CPI (M) has electoral ambitions at the core of its existence. The debate over entering into an electoral understanding with the Congress comes in this context. The line that the CPI(M) follows at present is keeping equal distance from Congress and BJP. But this line proved to be flexible when the party contested the last assembly elections in West Bengal with the Congress. Though the CPI(M) is known for splitting hair on every issue under consideration, a near unanimous view is that the BJP has emerged as its biggest enemy though both the Congress and the BJP have the same class character and follow similar neo-liberal economic policies. Being in power in West Bengal for more than three decades was the key strength of the party. But the views of the leaders from West Bengal a state that sends 42 members to the Lok Sabha seats are being drowned down in key party forums by their counterparts from Kerala who can contest from 20 Lok Sabha seats. This doesnt augur well in the long run for the revival of the CPI (M) in West Bengal. The CPI(M) has just nine MPs in Lok Sabha, its worst ever tally. It had 24 in 2009 and more than 50 in 2004. So what is the expansion the party is talking about? The CPI(M) needs electoral allies for its own survival. The prescription for its survival such as the grand objective of Left unity looks great only on paper. There are around 32 Left parties in the country and each is convinced that its political and tactical line is correct. Getting the political tactical line is the foremost task for Left parties. The CPI (M) is obsessed with class divides and class struggles to address caste equations. What they fail to recognise is that in a country where 51.8% of the population is below 35 years, the youth constitute just 6.5% of its total membership. The CPI(M) wants to rally all secular and like minded parties together to take on the BJP. But its apathy to the Congress is more selective than ideological. The party had no qualms in supporting Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee as president. Most leaders in West Bengal continue to root for an electoral understanding with the Congress. Down but not out, the Congress remains the largest Opposition party in the country and the Left would do well to understand that mounting a united Opposition is not possible without it. The reality the CPI(M) tends to forget is that the Congress needs them mostly in West Bengal and in other big states such as Tamil Nadu, the depleting Left would be among the junior partners for the Congress. That means going for an electoral understanding with the Congress is a necessity for the Left, which still remains a moral political force compared to most other parties. jayanth.jacob@hindustantimes.com SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Rohingya issue is before the Supreme Court of India. One side claims them to be illegal migrants and interlopers, who ought to be cast out. It is said they enjoy scarce resources in India, while indulging in crime and are a threat to our national security. The other wants the Indian State to see them as a helpless people seeking refuge from persecution in Myanmar. I dont hold a brief for the Rohingyas or any migrants, illegal or legal, irrespective of their religion, creed, colour and nature. But for those who seek to throw out the migrants from Myanmar, they must first consider the pain any refugee suffers first. For centuries India has been a haven to the worlds outcasts. Diverse communities such as the Parsis, Jews, Armenians and Tibetans found refuge here and have survived the depredations of hostile regimes. With the downfall of the Shah and Pahlavi regime (1979), Iranians, and later with the collapse of Soviet-supported administration, Afghans, came to India. To understand what it means to be a refugee, cast out from your home, we must go back to what happened in this land in 1947. Hindus and Sikhs left what is West Pakistan and East Pakistan (Bangladesh) to migrate to India while Muslims moved to Pakistan. Both my parents belong to refugee families, who came from West Punjab and finally settled in Delhi. Even today in states where descendants of 1947 immigrants live, they continue to be called refugees colloquially. For children of refugees born two decades after 1947 like me, the conversations in our homes since birth have been embedded with the horrors of that time, of loss of home and hearth, of being cast out from your land, of overnight poverty, the struggle to survive in an alien place and to make it your home. These feelings are so deeply engrained in our Punjabi psyche, that we think of 1947, not as Independence but as Partition alone. My late father, who lost everything and began afresh and rose to great heights in the legal profession, taught me an important lesson of my life. Aga Emani, an Iranian gentleman of noble descent, had fled to India with his wife and two small daughters and came in contact with our family in the early 1980s. Soon he began hanging around my late father, who would find ways to keep sending him on odd jobs and errands and would then slip him money, despite our entire family disapproving. To top it he and his wife began calling my parents daddy and mummy. As his constant presence around my father became an irritant to the family, and I could stand it no longer, one day I summoned the courage to ask my father why he indulged this man and his family? His answer was Son, you were born post -Partition. You dont know what it means to be homeless, living on the charity of others and with no hope for the future. The odd jobs, he said, were to generate some money for Mr Emami with dignity, as the man and his family were barely surviving on the dole from the UNHCR. After living in India for about 20 years, Mr Emami went back to Iran. His daughters had grown up in an alien land and he worried for them and he had run out of finances. We never got to know what became of Mr Emami or his family. International conventions exist to deal with the status of refugees and the UNHCR is active in providing aid and rehabilitation. But no amount of rehabilitation and compensation can make up for the loss of ones home, which is not just monetary loss in monetary terms, but a loss of identity, a sense of statelessness, of upheaval, of deprivation. It is for the Indian government to determine which refugees are to be brought in or not, but seeing the humanitarian crisis next door, can an exception be made based on the religion or alleged propensity of crime of any class of refugees? This land has welcomed many of the worlds oppressed with an open heart and open arms. If we dont provide safety and sustenance to refugees, (resources and government policy, along with relations with other nations permitting) will we be able to hold our head high as a leader among nations and a proponent of human rights? Sidharth Luthra is senior advocate and visiting professor Northumbria University. The views expressed are personal A journalist recounts being molested when she was 11 and holding her mothers hand on a bus. The man grinned at her. An actress says she was made to feel she deserved harassment because she was a party girl. I shouldnt have been there, I shouldnt have been bad, she writes. A social media marketing professional says she was 8 when an uncle groped her breasts, while taking her out to buy sweets in a rickshaw. These are just some of the searing accounts of assault and sexual harassment that Indian women shared when the hashtag #MeToo starting trending worldwide . The hashtag started trending Sunday when actor Alyssa Milano tweeted an appeal from a friend in the wake of allegations of harassment and rape against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. If youve been sexually harassed or assaulted write me too as a reply to this tweet, said Milano. Within 24 hours, there were more than 500,000 tweets and 12 million Facebook posts hashtagged #MeToo. These social media posts show that the scale of sexual assault is staggering and its victims too many to number. If all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted wrote Me too as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem, reads the original post. But, the question is, who did not know the magnitude of the problem? Because as testimonies from woman after woman can attest, we knew exactly how deep, how wide the rot runs. In India, over 34,600 cases of rape were reported in 2015, among the 1.3 lakh reported incidents of sexual offences, according to National Crime Records Bureau figures. This is when rape and sexual assault is hugely underreported. Only one out of every four rape cases in India ended in conviction in 2015. In Delhi, reported cases of rape jumped 277% in the last five years. Women are four times as likely to be raped in New Delhi than any other city. As I write this, a Thompson Reuters poll has ranked New Delhi, along with Sao Paulo, as the worst megacity when it comes to sexual violence against women. Women have always known what its like to be harassed and violated. For many of us, our first brush with harassment happened when we werent even women but still children. We know that our friends, mothers, colleagues, aunts, young cousins have all faced harassment -- we know because we have seen it happen, we have heard the stories. We have seen complaints of harassment being dismissed or laughed off, of our feeble no or clothes or morals being cited as reasons to let perpetrators off the hook. So who is it exactly who did not know that the problem was this bad? Turns out, it is men. Men, cocooned by privilege, are just finding out how bad it is for women. #MeToo hasnt blown the lid off anything, hasnt exposed how widespread sexual violence is, except for people who were ignoring it till now. Closer home, Weinsteins exposure made Pune-based lifestyle blogger Sheena Dabolkar publicly accuse Khodu Irani, the owner of a Pune pub, for being a serial harasser and encouraging an atmosphere hostile to women at the pub. More people, including well-known comedians Aditi Mittal and Tanmay Bhatt, joined the growing chorus of complaints against Irani, while his friends jumped to his defence. Reactions to Dabolkars post mirror those of Weinsteins defenders. In fact, they are typical of the way men react to women being vocal about harassment: I never saw it happen, why didnt you complain earlier, patting your butt may not have sexual undertones, youre lying for publicity. #MeToo testimonies are brave. They have the power to shake those who deliberately choose to enable a culture that silences and shames victims. When every woman on your timeline is voicing her assault and abuse, you can no longer turn around and say, oh, I didnt know it was so bad. Men are shocked at how every single woman they know has a horror story of being abused, assaulted, harassed, violated. The sheer scale, the number of victims who stood up to be counted, have been overwhelming. And this is why we need a shift in the way we discuss sexual assault. Women dont get raped, men rape. As people have pointed out, for every #MeToo story there is a corresponding #IDidThat. If #MeToo has to change anything, men will need to listen and examine the ways in which they are complicit. Their bro codes, their silence, their actions. If men dont change, if men dont do better, a new generation of women will still be tweeting #MeToo years from now. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In the unsolved murder mystery of Gauri Lankesh, the breaking news on Saturday, October 14, was the release of composite sketches of the two suspected killers. Put out by Karnataka IGP and head of the SIT, B. K. Singh, these images give us for the first time an idea of who may have killed Gauri. After examining over 75 TBs of data and interrogating some 250 odd persons, the 150-member SIT said that the killers had recced Gauris home and layout, avoiding CCTV cameras to hide their identity. While the SIT ruled out a professional, that is the journalistic angle, to the killing, all other hypotheses were still open. What is important to recollect is that even before her blood was cold, the blame game had already begun. Not only did the most visible Congress leader jump into the fray by blaming the ruling dispensation, so did well-known public intellectuals. What was gained? I doubt whether the ruling BJP lost any supporters or the Congress gained many. Immediately, a fresh barrage of attacks and counter-attacks was unleashed in the public sphere through respective armies on social media. Wouldnt it have been better to hold their fire till more details of the investigation came out? Gauris murder definitely needs to be condemned, with its culprits brought to swift and certain justice. Which right-thinking person would doubt that, irrespective of his or her political views? Similarly, regardless of what she believed in or advocated, Gauri Lankesh certainly did not deserve to die. RSS leaders, by publically condoling her death in their Akhil Bharatiya Karyakarini Mandal baithak on October 12, have acknowledged this. Gauri may have been harsh, even extreme in her criticism, but she was no anti-national. It seems that the top brass of RSS has recognised this. Most would say the same for Govind Pansare, the Leftist writer-intellectual, murdered on February 16, 2015, when his wife and he were returning home from their morning constitutional. Pansare was 81. Later, on August 30 of the same year, two assailants shot and killed Malleshappa Madivalappa Kalburgi at his residence in Dharwad. Kalburgi, a Lingayat scholar and Sahitya Akademi award winner, was former vice-chancellor of Kannada University, Hampi. He was 75. Two years earlier, medical doctor, author, and activist, Narendra Achyut Dabholkar, was murdered in Pune on August 10, 2013. He too was out on a morning walk. Since his life had been threatened many times for his unpopular anti-superstition drive, he had been offered police protection. He refused saying, If I have to take police protection in my own country from my own people, then there is something wrong with me. Regardless of whether we agree or disagree with these four murdered writer-activists, we must respect their right to life, property, and freedom to express their views. After all, as Dabholkar used to say, Im fighting within the framework of the Indian constitution and it is not against anyone, but for everyone. It may not be advisable to be an armchair detective, but you dont have to be a latter-day Sherlock Homes or Hercule Poirot to surmise that the killers were professionals, hired for the job by people who had invested in their services for months. The parallels in all four killings are also obvious. In each case, two motorcycle bound assailants fired point blank at their targets, killing them instantly. The gunshots were fired from country-made firearms. All four appear to be well-planned, contract killings, carried out by specialists, not spontaneous, reactive lynchings or murders by the groups that were supposedly angered by the views of dead. More obvious and incontrovertible than any of these deductions is the unfortunate fact that none of these cases has been solved. Hopefully the latest Karnataka SIT will do better than earlier probes. What is shocking and utterly unacceptable about these unsolved slayings is not just the inability, some would say incompetence, of the various investigative agencies, but the even more unscrupulous and reprehensive attempts to extract political capital out of them. Again, the link between these two aspects should be evident: the longer the crimes remain unsolved the more certain political groups and parties might stand to benefit from them by pointing the needle of suspicion where they wish. I would argue, instead, that none actually benefits from such political chicanery and skullduggery. On the contrary, our divisiveness on matters of common interest erodes the culture of democracy, polarising society and narrowing the scope of healthy debate. Shouldnt political leaders make a common cause against anti-democratic forces? Shouldnt opinion makers and leaders of civil society follow suit in coming together to condemn the killings of writers, scholars, activists, and thinkers, regardless of their political differences? And shouldnt we, the common people of India, unite against such heinous threats to debate and democracy? These cases must be solved so that no dares commit more political murders of our intellectuals, who are soft targets if not sitting ducks, regardless of their political affiliations or ideological leanings. Makarand R. Paranjape is a professor at the Jawaharlal Nehru University The views expressed are personal The Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid, Spain, is hosting an exhibition (October 17 to January 21, 2018) comparing two masters of 19th- and 20th-century art: Pablo Picasso and Toulouse Lautrec. As well as examining the cliche of the young Picasso as an admirer of Lautrec in Barcelona and his early years in Paris, the show explores the influence of the cabaret painters work throughout the Spanish artists career. Heres a look at what to expect from five sections of the show: Bohemians Lautrec became aware of his talent for caricature early in his career, effectively capturing the personality of the people he painted. He painted many caricature self-portraits, as well as portraits of people he knew, such as Jane Avril. Picasso also used caricature in his work. In fact, two paintings Jane Avril by Lautrec and Bust of a Smiling Woman by Picasso display the same characteristic style and pointillist technique. When it comes to erotic themes, Lautrec, influenced by Degas, painted more symbolic and delicate connotations, whereas Picasso took a more violent approach. (AFP) Underworld The two painters work offered a window onto a world often overlooked by art, such as Parisian cafes and the cabarets of Montmartre. Lautrec painted posters for shows and portraits of their stars, such as La Goulue and Jane Avril, on many occasions. This fascination with Parisian nightlife is also seen in the work of Picasso, with works such as The Diners. Prostitution is another subject common to both artists, expressed in many works by both Lautrec and Picasso. (AFP) Wanderers The world of the circus also played a key role in the careers of both artists. Lautrec was particularly interested in equestrian acts, while Picasso had a more melancholic approach, portraying harlequins as the outcasts of Parisian nightlife. Brothel life Prostitution is another subject common to both artists, expressed in many works by both Lautrec and Picasso. Lautrec portrayed prostitutes attending to their toilette, getting dressed or playing cards, whereas the Spanish painter took a more erotic, sometimes pornographic, approach. At the turn of the 20th century, Picasso went to Saint-Lazare hospital to sketch women with syphilis, leading to works such as Woman with Bangs. The two painters work offered a window onto a world often overlooked by art, such as Parisian cafes and the cabarets of Montmartre. (AFP) Hidden eros When it comes to erotic themes, Lautrec, influenced by Degas, painted more symbolic and delicate connotations, whereas Picasso took a more violent approach. Follow @htlifeandstyle for more Actor Deepika Padukone said she believes romantic relationships are complicated and it is difficult to find a partner who understands ones success and passion. The 31-year-old actor said it is not easy for a performer to maintain their number one position in the industry. As far as romantic relationships are concerned, they are complicated because it is difficult to find someone, who understands your success, your passion for what you do, who understands that maybe you earn more money (than him). It (at the top) is a complicated place to be in, Deepika said. The actor said that with extreme success, she overnight had wings to fly and that is when relationships go through testing times. Some of my personal relationships have become stronger with time but I have seen some of my friends, who have distanced themselves from me. Some of my school friends... We have become closer than before because we all make efforts to stay in touch. Actress Deepika Padukone offers cake to Hema Mallini during the official launch of latter's biography 'Beyond the Dream Girl' in Mumbai on Monday. (PTI) She added, A lot of people could not handle the success that came my way and sort of disconnected. I am not upset about it, thats just the way life goes. People, who are closest to you and matter, understand. Deepika was speaking at the launch of veteran actor Hema Malinis biography Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl. The Bajirao Mastani star said stardom and sacrifice go hand-in-hand and one needs to be dedicated to achieve their goals. ... I havent gone to college. I just managed to finish my 11th and 12th (standards) also because by then I had become a successful model. And while I lived in Bengaluru, I still had to go to Mumbai and Delhi a lot of times for work. Actress and BJP MP Hema Malini along with her daughters Ahana and Esha cutting a cake to celebrate her birthday in Mumbai on Monday. Actress Deepika Padukone is also seen. (PTI) Then I tried doing my first year of degree, (but) I couldnt do that. I tried distance education, I couldnt do that as well. So, I am just 12th pass and my parents had a lot of issues with it back then, she said. Hema said being on top is a lonely place to be in. Of course, it is a lonely place, in many ways. Even in personal relationships. You are working hard the whole day, then you come back just to sleep and leave early morning for work. I dont know how to explain... When it comes to your personal life, even your parents want you to settle down. My parents started looking for a guy for me. A lot of suitors came to see me. But we couldnt have a match with them. We wanted to, but they couldnt reach the position I was (in), the actor-politician said. Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor shared the first look of his upcoming film, Mulq on Twitter late Monday and we are sure you will be surprised to see him. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, Mulq also stars Taapsee Pannu, Rajat Kapoor, Neena Gupta, Ashutosh Rana and Prateik Babbar. Anubhav has also written the film along with Mushtaq Sheikh. Taapsee is likely to play Rishis daughter-in-law while Neena may essay the role of his wife. Rishi changed his profile picture on Twitter and also edited his bio to say, For all my fans my first look of the film Mulq. Voice of tomorrow!" Talking about the film, Rishi had earlier said, I have not done drama in a long time and when Anubhav narrated the film to me, I loved the concept of the film. Shooting in Benaras and Lucknow will be an added bonus since I have heard such great stories about the cities. Replying to comments of fans, Rishi then shared his look from 102 Not Out as well. The film has Rishi playing Amitabh Bachchans son in the film. He wrote with the photo, Another diffrent fun film I am doing 102 Not Outwith the amazing AB. Another diffrent fun film I am doing "102 Not Out"with the amazing AB pic.twitter.com/wtHpO5Hguc Rishi Kapoor (@chintskap) October 16, 2017 While Amitabh plays the role of a 102-year-old father, Rishi Kapoor will play his 75-year-old son. The two actors are busy shooting for the film, which is directed by Umesh Shukla. 102 Not Out will release this December. Rishi was recently seen in Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi. Follow @htshowbiz for more Tuesday marks the 62nd birth anniversary of Bollywood actor Smita Patil. The actor, who passed away at the young age of 31, has had a wide canvas of work that included films like Bhumika, Umbartha, Bhavni Bhavai and Aakrosh, apart from mainstream films such as Namak Halaal and Kasam Paida Karnewale Ki. Born on October 17, 1955 in Pune (Maharashtra), Smita completed her graduation from the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune and worked as a Doordashan news anchor in the 70s. She graduated from a TV announcer to become an acclaimed actress soon. The youngest star to be honoured with a Padmashri, her career spanned only a decade but had a long list of acclaimed films crammed into it. Amitabh Bachchan, who worked with her in Namak Halaal, had said, When it comes to do doing cinema (films) with me, she did things that were against her nature like in Namak Halal she had to do rain dance with me. She felt it was away from her culture and thinking. She told me she had worked in so many good films but once when she was at the airport she felt bit awkward and embarrassed that people remembered her for Namak Halal. Smita Patil and Amitabh Bachchan in a still from Namak Halaal. She was not a Method actor. She followed her instinct and acted from the gut, putting herself entirely in the directors hands. Her greatest asset was her intensity. Intensity became her. Intensity defined her, author Mithali Rao wrote in her biography on the actor, Smita Patil: A Brief Incandescence. Heres a look at some of her beautiful pictures over the years: Smita Patil poses for a rare glamour shot in 1980. ( Dinodia Photo) Smita Patil in a still from Mirch Masala. (HT Photo) Smita Patil poses for the camera. (Pratham Gokhale/ Hindustan Times) A still from Satyajit Rays 1981 film, Sadgati, starring Om Puri (R) and Smita Patil (L). (Habitat Film Festival) Richard Attenborough auditioning Naseeruddin Shah and Smita Patil for Gandhi. (Photograph courtesy Penguin India) Follow @htshowbiz for more Veteran actor Hema Malini said on Monday that she shared a beautiful relationship with Sunny Deol, Dharmendras son from his first wife. The 69-year-old actor says there has always been curiosity regarding her equation with Sunny, which has been extremely wonderful and cordial. Everyone wonders what kind of a relationship we (Sunny and I) are having. It is very beautiful and cordial. Whenever it is necessary he (Sunny) is always there, along with Dharamji, especially when this accident happened, Malini said. Pretty women: Actress and BJP MP Hema Malini along with her daughters Ahana and Esha and Deepika Padukone in Mumbai. (PTI) The actor-parliamentarian met with a road accident near Dausa in Rajasthan in 2015 on her way from Agra to Jaipur, when her Mercedes allegedly rammed into an Alto. Malini reportedly fractured her nose and suffered injuries on her forehead. He (Sunny) was the first person to come and see me at home and he saw that the right doctor is there for the stitches that were done on my face. I was really taken aback to see him showing so much interest. That shows what kind of a relationship we are having, Malini added. Deepika Padukone and Hema Malini at the launch of her official biography Beyond the Dream Girl in Mumbai on Monday. (PTI) She was talking at the launch of her biography, Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl, written by Ram Kamal Mukherjee. The biography was launched by actor Deepika Padukone in the presence of Malinis family, including daughters Esha and Ahana Deol with their respective husbands, and industry colleagues Ramesh Sippy, Juhi Chawla and Subhash Ghai. Follow @htshowbiz for more When celebrities have a go at writing, most prefer to stick to the safe genre of memoirs. Fiction is attempted in rare cases. Rarer still is when such attempts are successful and the fruit of that labour actually worth your time. Actor-filmmaker Tom Hanks debut collection of short stories belongs, without any doubt, to that singular category. In the 17 stories that make Uncommon Type, the two-time Oscar-winning actor reveals himself to be a skilled storyteller. There is a great deal of variety in terms of themes and while the prose may not be exceptional, Hanks measured storytelling makes the collection an addictive read. There is no descriptive excess and not a word is wasted. The collection begins with Three Exhausting Weeks, where the laid-back narrator and his superactive friend from the multicultural, moon-trotting bunch of Hanks 2014 short story, Alan Bean Plus Four, try to turn their friendship into a relationship. Publisher: Penguin Random House, pages: 403, price: Rs 599 In Christmas Eve 1953, a former soldier takes stock of his physical and emotional scars earned during the Second World War, while in A Junket in the City of Light, a small-time model-actor finds himself overwhelmed by a crazy-hectic press tour across Europe after landing a meaty part opposite a big star. A bored billionaire goes time travelling in The Past is Important to Us. And in Stay With Us, written like a screenplay, a billionaire hotelier and his overworked assistant find something invaluable in a non-descript roadside motel. The stories trapeze through time (1940s, 1950s, 1970s, 2000s, 2027) and are set in America, and may require some degree of familiarity with the geography and popular culture of the country. But the struggles they describe are universal. Hanks flits in and out of perspectives, and the reader transitions from feeling the wonder of a 10-year-old flying in a four-seater plane for the first time, to the boredom of a billionaire who looks for fresh distractions each day, the lingering heartache of a woman trying to move on after a breakup, to experiencing the anxieties of a divorced, single mother settling in a new neighbourhood as effortlessly as turning a kaleidoscope. Typewriters, the obsolete writing machines of the past, and Hanks well-known obsession, make a comeback in Uncommon Type, threading the varied narratives together. Their bang bang clack-clack-clack puckapuckapuckapucka provides a steady background score as a different model makes a cameo in each story Among some stories that stand out are Welcome to Mars (a father and son are each others support system in a dysfunctional family but there exist some secrets ) and Go See Costas (a Bulgarian escapes the civil war in his country to get to New York and start over with no money and no English.) Whos Who (about the trials and tribulations of Sue Gliebe who is losing her battle with tears trying to get a Broadway break) is reminiscent of O Henrys stories set in the Big Apple. Hanks flits in and out of perspectives, and the reader transitions from feeling the wonder of a 10-year-old flying in a four-seater plane for the first time, to the boredom of a billionaire who looks for fresh distractions each day as effortlessly as turning a kaleidoscope. In these all-American tales, Hanks the Democrat is careful to reflect the countrys racial diversity. In Three Exhausting Weeks, the narrator explains his gift to his friend MDash (short for Mohammed Dayax-Abdo) who has just become a naturalised American citizen: I bought a forty-eight-star American flag, from the 1940s. The flag would remind MDash that his adoptive nation is never finished building itself that good citizens have a place somewhere in her fruited plain just as more stars can fit in the blue field above those red and white stripes. This is a heartening and relevant reminder at a time when the sight of angry crowds shouting Blood and soil in Charlottesville, Virginia, and the subsequent violence that followed is still fresh in public memory. If you enjoy a story well told and/or are a Tom Hanks fan or have a peculiar obsession for typewriters, Uncommon Type is right up your alley. That said, this collection is not a pacy, airport read to be glugged bottoms up. More like fine wine, these stories demand to be savoured at leisure. The author tweets @DoNotRamble SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON DEHRADUN: Naresh Gangwar, who worked at the house of minister Rekha Aryas husband Girdharilal Sahu, recorded his statement at the Haldwani Kotwali on Tuesday. Earlier, the man from Bareilly had alleged Sahu didnt keep his promise of giving a house and handsome money to him in exchange for a kidney transplant for his first wife in 2015. Sahu, however, has refuted the charge. Inspector KR Pandey of Haldwani Kotwali had summoned Gangwar to record his statement. Gangwar, he said, repeated what he had said in the letter that his kidney was taken by cheating him. The next phase of investigation would begin after this and the police would now summon Sahu for recording his statement. Gangwar had written a letter to Nainital SSP Janmejay Khanduri saying that he was taken to Sri Lanka in June 2015 where his kidney was transplanted to Sahus first wife Vaijyanti Mala. Gangwar alleged that he was told that he would be undergoing a blood transfusion but he woke up in hospital only to find that his kidney was removed. On Monday, Sahu held a press conference in Haldwani where he declared that Gangwars statement of coercion or enticement for donating kidney was false. Being a relative of Vaijanti Mala, he added, Naresh voluntarily offered to donate his kidney. Under the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, a person who makes or receives any payment for the supply of human organs or seeks to find a person willing to supply for payment of any human organ or offers to supply any human organ for payment shall face imprisonment. The opposition Congress has mounted offensive against Sahu to target women empowerment minister Rekha Arya. It is a serious matter and the CM should take notice. I have come to know that the Sri Lanka hospital where the kidney transplant was conducted is black listed. The Congress party will raise this issue in the upcoming session of the state assembly, said Karan Mahra, the deputy leader of opposition in the state assembly. The state government on Tuesday constituted a special committee to look into the grievances of the protesting power sector employees, after which they withdrew their decision to boycott emergency services ahead of Diwali. The government decision will affect employees of all three wings within the power sector the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) or the state-run power distribution utility, the Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd (UJVNL) that manages hydropower generation in the state and the Power Transmission Corporation of Uttarakhand Ltd (PTCUL) or the power transmission utility of the state. The employees had been protesting to seek removal of irregularities in salary and assured career progression under recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission as promised to them by the state Cabinet. A committee has been formed to resolve the grievances of the employees. It will submit a report of its recommendations in a months time, which will then be sent to the finance department for vetting...all their (employees) problems will be duly looked into, energy secretary Radhika Jha said. Administrative heads of all the three wings of the power sector as well as representatives of the protesting employee unions were present during the meeting. On Monday, the protesting employees had even boycotted a meeting that had been called by the energy secretary to discuss their grievances. Following that, the power department on Monday reminded the employees that the Essential Services Maintenance Act (Esma) which prohibits the employees of the related services from going on strike had been enforced on the states power sector for six months in June this year and that it was still applicable on them. The Esma seeks to ensure delivery of certain services, which if obstructed would affect the normal life of people. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON On the day of the festival of lights Diwali one prefers to celebrate with family and friends. But, for the officials of Delhi Police, who safeguard the city, the entire city is their family. So, when every one is celebrating, Delhi Police officers are on duty, keeping a strict vigil on roads to ensure that nothing goes wrong. Our work doubles during the festive season, but thats not anything new for us. We have to be extra careful and attentive to avoid any mishap in the city. We patrol through the day and night and the best part of serving the citizens on Diwali is the visit of our senior officers. They appreciate our efforts and also share sweets with us, says Deepak Sharma, a constable. Like Sharma, there are hundreds of police personnel who patrol on the night of Diwali. But, what keeps these officers going is a generous act? Every Diwali, the senior officials take to the streets of Delhi to be with their colleagues.These sweets add sweetness to the thoughts of their loved ones, providing them the succour essential for rendering duty for long hours. Manish Kumar, another constable of PCR vans, says, My kids are young, and they feel sad that I dont celebrate Diwali with them. But, I make them understand that Ive my responsibility towards the city. Hum aapas mein to kabhi bhi celebrate kar sakte hain. This gesture is not new and Delhi Police have been doing this for quite sometime. Madhur Verma, DCP PRO, says, This drive is symbolic to ensure that none from the team feels left out. They work hard and as seniors, we distribute sweets and celebrate. Monika Bhardwaj, DCP, PCR, says, Its our duty to meet our team on the day of Diwali once during the day and once during the night and we do it willingly. My family knows that Im going out to make my colleagues feel special on the festive occasion, and ensure that the citizens feel secure. Follow @htTweets for more SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Delhi cannot blame its polluted air on its neighbours this Diwali. A forecast released by the Union ministry of earth sciences on Monday stated that the air quality in Delhi this year will be directly proportional to firecrackers burst and vehicular emissions within city limits. This would be different from the last few years, when post-Diwali pollution was mostly blamed on stubble-burning in Punjab and Haryana. The report said prevalent weather conditions will not allow polluted air from neighbouring states to reach Delhi until at least October 21. Emissions triggered within city limits will not disperse easily either. The forecast by the ministrys System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) takes three scenarios into account. If the city bursts the same amount of firecrackers as last year, the pollution level would be higher than 2014 and 2015 but less than 2016. If the number of crackers sees a 50% reduction, the pollution would be less than 2014 but greater than 2015. If no firecrackers are burst, Delhi would have the cleanest Diwali since 2013. Last years festive season triggered the worst smog in 17 years, forcing the Delhi government to shut down schools and construction sites. Delhi University, Noida, Dheerpur and Mathura Road areas in the city may witness the most pollution this year, while Aya Nagar, Lodhi Road, Pusa and Palam could be left relatively unscathed. Forced to take reparative measures, the Supreme Court has banned the sale of fire crackers in the national capital region until the start of November. The move drew a mixed response from city residents. The upper air winds responsible for transporting pollutants from distant sources, such as places where crop stubble is being burnt, are not strong enough this time. They are unlikely to impact Delhi, the forecast said. There, however, is a downside to this phenomenon. As the surface winds are calm, they are unlikely to blow the local pollution away. Therefore, the pollutants may remain trapped in Delhis air for a longer period, the forecast added. Meanwhile, environmentalists have asked city residents to say no to crackers and go easy on motorised vehicles. The new forecast shows that if Delhi wants to prevent a repeat of last years smog situation, a lot will depend on the extent of firecrackers burnt here. Also, one shouldnt forget the Diwali traffics contribution to pollution levels, said Anumita Roychowdhury, head of the air pollution division at the Centre for Science and Environment. Delhi experiences some of its worst traffic jams in the days leading up to Diwali. The situation turns especially bad during Dhanteras, which falls on Monday. Vehicles are one of the biggest contributors to pollution in the city, and it increases from 20-28% during the winter. Pollutants dont get dispersed fast enough during this time of the year, aggravating the situation, said D Saha, head of the air quality laboratory at the Central Pollution Control Board. The humidity in Delhi is increasing, and the temperature is dropping. This may increase the holding capacity of emissions from the firecrackers. An anti-cyclonic circulation may lead to the slowing down of surface winds, which would then cause the local pollution to stagnate, SAFAR predicted. A 28-year-old Delhi Police constable was found dead after he was run over by a train in Palam on Monday afternoon. The mans toddler son was also found sitting along the tracks next to the body. With no suicide note or eyewitness of the incident, the police are still investigating if it was an accidental or suicidal death. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Railways) Parvez Ahmed said the call was received around 4.30 p.m. that a man was found dead and there was a child next to the body. Investigations revealed the identity of the man as Nand Ram Meena, a constable posted with Sarojini Nagar police station. The child was identified as his son, said Mr. Ahmed. No suicide note or eyewitness who could recount the sequence was found at the spot or has come forward so far. The cop had left home with his son on a motorcycle and the circumstances show that he parked the bike before coming under the train. Among other angles, the police are also probing if he had planned to kill the child too. The case comes two days after a Delhi Police Assistant Sub Inspector was run over by a train in Sabzi Mandi area of North Delhi. Delhis striking sanitation workers have announced that they will lock down the Civic Centre headquarters of South and North DMC on Wednesday, over non-payment of arrears, demand for cashless medical insurance cards and regularisation of staff. Swatantra Majdoor Sayunkt Morcha, a sanitation union with members in three municipal corporations, made the announcement on Monday, soon after it went on strike. We dont want residents to face inconvenience during festival season, but we are helpless. None of the officials and area representatives came to hear our pleas on the first day of our strike. This shows their unconcerned attitude towards the needs of 54,000 sanitation workers, who work hard to keep the city neat and clean, said Sanjeev Java, the unions president. We have already intimated the North DMC commissioner and SHO, Delhi Police about out plans to lock the civic centre on Wednesday, said Java. Though sanitation services in north Delhi were not effected much on the first day of the strike, but the workers claimed they have convinced many to abstain from work from on Tuesday. Aam Aadmi Party leader Vikas Goel had criticised the BJP ruling North DMC for not discussing the strike during the standing committee meeting on Monday. I even sat on floor and raised slogan against party for their apathy towards the issue, said Goel. AAP leader Rakesh Kumar, Leader of Opposition in NDMC House,said that the additional commissioner Deepak Hastir had promised in 2015 to bring preamble in standing committee for regularisation of staff, but till now situation remains the same. People are working as daily wagers for over decades and the civic agency doesnt want to regularise them, why? If they dont have money then they should ask the Centre to provide them funds. he said. Miffed with the irregular payments of salaries and other pending demands, a sanitation union in east Delhi has been on strike since October 11. Though the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) has distributed salaries and Diwali bonuses, the sanitation workers are unwilling to give up and have announced that they will continue the strike until their arrears are released. We will continue with our fight. Joining of strikes by other unions has increased our strength, said Sanjay Gehlot, president of MCD Swachtta Karamachari Union. Poor sanitation services have started affecting the cleanliness in east Delhi, and soon may hit cleanliness in areas under the other two corporations. To discuss the issues, the commissioners of three municipal corporations had a brief meeting with the UD secretary, according to sources. The meeting reportedly took place after the meeting between Hardeep Singh Puri, Union minister of urban development, Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and Member of Parliaments on Monday, Mayors of North and South Corporations on other issues related to the MCD. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) on Tuesday implemented a series of measures, such as imposing a ban on diesel generator sets and temporarily shutting down the Badarpur thermal power plant, to curb pollution levels in the national capital region during the winter. The Supreme Court-mandated panel warned that further steps, including effecting a fourfold hike in parking fees and shutting down polluting industries, will be implemented if the air quality degrades from very poor to severe in the coming days. Hopefully, the city wont witness such severe pollution levels this time. Otherwise, we will have no alternative but to shut down everything from vehicles to schools bringing the entire city to a standstill, said Sunita Narain, EPCA member and director of the Centre for Science and Environment. These measures are part of a Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) that came into force from Tuesday to address air pollution concerns in the national capital and its surrounding areas. The air quality in Delhi has already reached very poor (AQI 308) levels, and experts have warned that it may turn severe (AQI 401-500) on October 20 the day after Diwali. Brick kilns that dont run on zig-zag technology, which reduces emissions by up to 75%, were also temporarily shut down by the EPCA. Next, we may need to take drastic steps such as hiking the parking fees by at least three-four times, banning hot-mix plants (for road construction), and shutting down stone crushing units if the air quality deteriorates further, said Narain. At present, municipalities charge a car parking fee of Rs 20 for the first hour. However, the EPCA clarified that measures such as the odd-even car rationing policy which restricts movement of private vehicles on the basis of their licence plate numbers and closure of schools will be taken only as a last resort under the action plans emergency segment. The moisture level is increasing, and we expect foggy conditions on Diwali night. Too much smoke due to firecrackers and vehicular emissions could result in smog, which may linger for the next 24 hours, said A Sudhakar, member-secretary of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Delhi experienced its worst ordeal with smog in 17 years right after last years Diwali celebrations. CPCB data revealed that pollution at three places Delhis Anand Vihar, Uttar Pradeshs Ghaziabad and Rajasthans Bhiwadi has already hit severe levels. As these are the most polluted places in the region, they will be our first targets. We will analyse the reasons and take immediate action, said EPCA chairman Bhure Lal. EPCA members fear that their attempts to reduce air pollution in Delhi could be negated by the limitations of its public transport system. The ridership of Delhis bus fleet is declining. GRAP places heavy emphasis on intensifying the use of public transport systems during periods of high pollution. All our efforts may go down the drain if that is lacking, said Narain. In 2016, the Delhi government had launched the odd-even rationing scheme on city roads when air pollution reached critical levels. Festivals in India go beyond religious connotations and become a celebration that involves all and sundry. Diwali is definitely one of them and to ensure that the inmates of Tihar Jail also feel inclusive during the festival of lights, the jail authorities have been celebrating the festival with its inmates for several years now. From food stalls to cultural activities, several events take place inside the premises. Additional Inspector General (Prison) Rajkumar says, Diwali is one of the biggest festival and everyone has a right to celebrate it. To make the day special, we organise cultural programmes inside the jail. The celebrations are exclusively arranged for the jail inmates and for people who live in Tihar Jail. Outsiders are not allowed to be a part of it. We have a special food menu and we decorate the premises also. This initiative makes the inmates happy. Ive been a prisoner for the past three years. I miss my home, but, I dont homesick during the festive season. The arrangements bring smile inside the prison, says Mohan Lal*, a prisoner. Similar emotion is voiced by another prisoner, Krishan Kumar*, who says. I appreciate the efforts taken by the jail authorities. The cheer thats spread makes us feel better. Follow @htTweets for more SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON After schools, the AAP government in Delhi has now planned to start its flagship mohalla clinics at Metro stations. Twenty sites for setting up these primary clinics have already been identified. Good news: Mohalla Clinics to be set up at Metro Stations. 20 sites identified. More to be identified soon, Delhis transport minister, Kailash Gahlot tweeted on Monday evening. In a move to upgrade the citys primary healthcare, the AAP government has planned to set up 1,000 mohalla clinics across the city, in a bid to ensure everyone can find a mohalla clinic within 1 km radius of their homes. We will have a three tier health system the mohalla clinics, the polyclinics and then the hospitals. The government-run dispensaries and mohalla clinics will be at par. In fact, we are converting the smaller dispensaries to mohalla clinics and the bigger ones to polyclinics, Delhi health minister Satyendar Jain had recently said. Currently, there are around 155 mohalla clinics in Delhi that are working. The governments flagship project has been lauded by the likes of former United Nations secretary general Kofi Annan and former World Health Organisation (WHO) director general and former Norway Prime Minister Dr Gro Harlem Brundtland. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON At IIM Ahmedabad, students of PGP (postgraduate) and PGPX (executive postgraduate) programmes recently learnt some valuable lessons from Indias ancient fables, the Panchatantra. Leaving regular classes undisturbed the two-week course, conducted after dinner from 9 to 10.15 pm for 25 students, was non graded. The management lessons were based on the understanding and interpretation of conflict in the Panchatantra. These were initiated on an experimental basis by Professor N Ravichandran, faculty in production and quantitative methods area at IIMA. About 25 stories from the Panchatantra were discussed with five classes covering five different sections: Mitrabhedam, Mitrapraptikam, Kakolukiyam, Labdha Prasannam and Aparikshitakaram. Elaborating on the theme, Prof Ravichandran said at the fundamental level, individual conflicts occurred due to differences in objectives and tactical measures led to conflict resolution. Conflict at philosophical/ ideological levels were enriching and intellectually stimulating. All parties gained by resolving ideological/ philosophical conflicts through deliberations and discussions. Why Panchatantra? Because it provided an ideal vantage point for understanding conflicts involving individuals, philosophies, organisations or consciousness. Stories in Panchatantra can be leveraged to provide useful clues to resolve all kinds of conflicts, he said The next level of conflicts, arose at junctures involving wealth creation opportunities. These conflicts translated into opportunities of market share, market accessibility and market domination for institutions created with an objective of stakeholder wealth creation. Organisations resolved these conflicts through dominant strategies, innovations, and creativity. The ultimate conflict occurred at the level of an individual and his consciousness, resolution of which was necessary for the individual to lead a harmonious life. Panchatantra provides an ideal vantage point for understanding conflicts involving individuals, philosophies, organisations or consciousness. Stories in Panchatantra can be leveraged to provide useful clues to resolve all kinds of conflicts, he added. The students came prepared with stories and the class was focussed on discussing differing interpretations of details in the story. Prof. Ravichandran would bring in real-life examples from business world, academia and politics to impress the power of the stories on us, says Balaji Uppala, media secretary of the institute who attended the classes. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON It starts with copying homework from a classmate at school because you were too lazy to do yours. Then you begin copying a few lines from Wikipedia to pad up an assignment. For a disturbingly large number of Indian students, plagiarism the practice of taking someone elses idea or work and pass it as your own is part of academic life. Its ignored by school and college until almost the post-graduate level, where regulations are stricter. Now, the University Grants Commission is taking active steps to promote academic integrity and prevent plagiarism in academics. A set of rules drafted last month make it necessary for higher education institutes across the country to set up an Academic Misconduct Panel to investigate assignments and projects submitted, for plagiarism. The panel will comprise faculty, MPhil (master of philosophy) and PhD (doctor of philosophy) students. Every student submitting a thesis, dissertation, term papers, reports or any other such documents to the higher education institution shall submit an undertaking, indicating that the document has been prepared by him or her and that the document is his/her original work and free of any plagiarism, reads the draft. The draft also recommends that institutes conduct awareness programmes each semester to teach students and staff the importance of proper attribution of information, seeking permission of the author where necessary, acknowledgement of source compatible with the needs and specificities of disciplines. Teaching staff welcome the move. The education system gives Indian students very little time to research, believes Kanchana Mahadevan, head of the department of philosophy at Mumbai University. Students end up not realising that they need to use the right sources and credit it when using material from the web and another persons work. As Uday Salunkhe, group director of WeSchool, Matunga puts it, Most students have no idea of the seriousness of the consequences. It has become the new normal. Whose line is it anyway? When Raj*, 23, was writing an essay to get admission in a humanities course in the UK, he took a couple of paragraphs from an essay online to impress the university with his language skills. I figured that universities abroad get thousands of applications and wont have no time to check mine for plagiarism, he says. I was terribly wrong. I got caught and was blacklisted from the university and lost a year. I learnt my lesson the hard way. Mahadevan of Mumbai University has encountered student plagiarism on a few occasions. The students in these cases were looking for short-cuts [since they had not attended class regularly] and instant appreciation, she says. They didnt even realise that plagiarism is ethically unacceptable. It was only during classroom presentation of the assignments, when their peers presented creative and original work, that they realised what they had done. It is a major problem, especially in medical colleges, says Dr TP Lahane, dean of Grant Medical College, Byculla. Several students just copy the entire research paper at post-graduate level and submit it, he says. When found, they are punished. In most cases though, its difficult to know because they are just too many open sources of research both online and offline. Though the menace will now be punishable under the UGC guidelines, it is not a legal offence, says Mahesh Bhagnari, managing director at Bhagnari and Co, patent and trademark law firm in Fort. For somebody to file a suit against you for plagiarism, you should have used the copy for commercial use and earned a profit, which students dont do. Also, the laws are enforced on citizens above 18 years of age and undergraduates are often younger. It means that colleges and universities have the bulk of the responsibility to take action against plagiarism. Small steps Appropriating another persons work was never very difficult, says Matthew Raggett, headmaster of The Doon School in Dehradun. I attribute it to the curriculum that focuses on content and does not teach you to ask questions and find answers to them on your own, he says. His solution: Start early. It is important that academic honesty is enforced upon students in secondary schools saving them from resorting to plagiarism in high school and college. Delhi University does not receive many complaints against copied theses and assignments. But it uses software that students and staff can use to check plagiarism, says Deepika Bhaskar, deputy dean of research at the university. Each department has password-protected access to it and it scans all submitted assignments before they are sent for correction. All the papers at post-graduate level come with a certificate stating what percentage of matter is similar to what is already available in the public domain. Hence to create awareness about the menace, we have made announcements in all the departments to check all the assignments for plagiarism, says Bhaskar. Dr Lahana is optimistic about the UGC guidelines. They will encourage institutes to ensure that a thesis, dissertation, term paper, report, publication or any other documents is free of plagiarism, he says. Around the world, schools and colleges have been relying on Turnitin, a programme that crosschecks academic material for plagiarism. Scanned documents show how much of the text, images or research has already appeared elsewhere. At India International School in Bengaluru, Selina Krishnan, director of academics goes a step ahead. We guide students on how to acknowledge and cite what has been taken from a source they have researched, she says. With proper guidelines in place, plagiarism can be avoided. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The police on Monday night have arrested two persons from Sector 9 on charges of selling firecrackers. The police patrolling teams conducted raids at several busy market areas of the city to check illegal sale of firecrackers in Gurgaon ahead of Diwali festival. Officials said that checks are being conducted with a view to enforcing the Supreme Courts October 9 order, prohibiting the sale of fireworks and crackers in Delhi-NCR until November 1. The order was pronounced to curb air pollution caused by bursting of firecrackers. Although the government, environmentalists and green activists have been advocating for eco-friendly measures and urging people not to burst crackers on Diwali because of the air and noise pollution it causes in the city, people were seen enquiring about firecrackers sale and asking shopkeepers in markets on ways to procure fireworks. In Gadoli Kalan market in Sector 10, a shop was sealed in the presence of a duty magistrate after a tip-off that crackers were being stored there for sale on Tuesday, said Ravinder Kumar, public relations officer, Gurgaon police. The police recovered 39 boxes of firecrackers from the shop and lodged a case at the Sector 10 police station against the owner of the shop for allegedly flouting the SC order. The police filed a case against two persons Bhagwan, a resident of Gadoli Kalan, and Ashok Kumar Saini in connection with the case, the Kumar said. He added that the accused will be arrested soon. During patrolling, a police team noticed that two men were selling crackers at Ravi Nagar Mandi in Sector 9. The accused were identified as Gudu Singh (20) and Sonu More(22). The police said that both of them are from Uttar Pradesh and had come to sell crackers in the city. The police recovered 50 packets of firecrackers that included rockets, bombs and pulljhari, worth around Rs15,000, from the women and arrested them. A case has been registered at Sector 9A police station under section sections 4 and 5 of Explosive Substances Act and 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The duo will be produced in court on Wednesday, the police said. Police teams in civil dresses are also conducting raids in all market areas of the city to check sale of firecrackers, said Raj Pal, assistant sub-inspector, Sector 9A police station. On Saturday, a 35-year-old woman was arrested by the police for allegedly selling firecrackers in Rajiv Nagar area. More than 100 packets of firecrackers worth Rs25,000 were recovered from her shop by the police. The woman was later released on bail by a district court on Monday. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In the light of rising pollution levels in Gurgaon and the Supreme Courts ban on the sale of fire crackers, city schools have advised the students to celebrate Green Diwali without bursting crackers. Several activities such as skit competition, lantern making, dance competition, poster making, Diya and rangoli decoration were held to drive home the message and reinforce the pledge to celebrate a green and noise-free Diwali. On October 13, the Punjab and Haryana high court delivered a judgment allowing residents to burst crackers for just three hours on Diwali between 6.30pm and 9.30pm. The rule will be in force in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh. Students were also apprised of the fact that Diwali is not one-day festival, but, in fact, part of a five-day festivity comprising Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali, Diwali, Govardhan Pooja and Bhai Dooj. Principals and teachers also made the students aware of customs and tradition surrounding these festivals. We dedicated the entire week towards helping children understand the harmful of impact of bursting crackers on our environment, loved ones and animals. We shot a video of children taking a pledge to celebrate a safe and noise-free Diwali and shared it with their parents, Neeti C Kaushik, principal, Mount Olympus School, said. The students were encouraged to celebrate this Diwali with candles, sweets, and plants. In our bid to sensitise children on the need to celebrate a green and cracker-free Diwali, pre-primary students, from Nursery to Class 5, painted diyas and made posters on the theme Say no to crackers. All mid-level and senior students were exhorted to have a cracker-free and green Diwali and involve people from economically-weaker sections in celebrating the Festival of Lights, Monica Sagar, principal, Shiv Nadar School, Gurgaon, said. Children renewed their pledge in special assemblies across city schools by signing a commitment to celebrate a green Diwali. Children of expats enacted various characters from the epic Ramayana in Laghu Ramayan, a stage performance by students of Lancer International School on Tuesday. Kimaya, a resident of Austria who played the role of Sita, said I look forward to Diwali each year as it is my favourite festival. I celebrated the festival of lights in Austria last year and this would be my first Diwali in India. Being a girl, it is, indeed, empowering to see people worshipping Goddess Laxmi. I urge people to spread the message of kindness and celebrate the festival vibrantly. A poster- making competition was organised at Suncity School for students of Class 3 and 4 through which they urged people to celebrate Green Diwali. Vega School educated learners about using ones resources responsibly and for the greater good of the society. A special assembly on Diwali will be hosted on Wednesday by the students wherein the grade 5 learners will perform a Nukkad Natak with the aim of spreading awareness on safe and environment-friendly ways of celebrating Diwali. Schools also highlighted hazards, including pollution, fire, burns and animal-related injuries, to make learners understand the need to celebrate responsibly. The eco-club of the institution has been working hard to spread awareness on this issue among students. The club members staged nukkad-nataks, short skits and also organized in-school rallies. Intra-school competitions such as slogan writing, poster-making, declamation and debate on a cracker-free Diwali was conducted enthusiastically by the teachers and the students, Vaibhav Kapoor, principal, Ajanta Public School, said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON On a day the city saw heavy traffic owing to frenzied shopping for Diwali, traffic movement went off the rails around Rajiv Chowk and exit 10 of the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway because of the ongoing repair work on a 100-metre stretch of Chaudhary Bakhtawar Singh Road. With landmarks and key roads such as the Delhi-Gurgaon expressway, Medanta-the Medicity hospital, Tau Devi Lal Stadium, Civil Lines and Sohna Road in close proximity, the route is heavily accessed by commuters. The stretch undergoing repair is situated opposite the new underpass that leads to the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway. Those coming from the Gurgaon expressway and opting to take exit 10 towards Bakhtawar Chowk were the worst-affected, as the road width was reduced from three lanes to one due to the ongoing repair work. Crammed for space, drivers battled to find their way out of the stretch during peak hours, as the backlog stretched to the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway and subsequently affected traffic towards Manesar and Jaipur as well. Disgruntled with the chaos, several motorists chose not to enter the Chaudhary Bakhtawar Singh Road-Bakhtawar Chowk stretch and drove illegally on to the other side of the road, bringing traffic to a halt on that part of the stretch as well. For commuters, the Diwali rush has added to their congestion woes. Owing to Diwali shopping, most roads are already in a mess. I have no clue why the authorities chose to carry out road repair during this period, Abhishek Dayal, a resident of Nirvana Country, said. Authorities said that the road is being repaired ahead of Haryana Day on November 1, during which functions are organised at Tau Devi Lal stadium. This is a routine repair work ahead of Haryana Day celebration, as many dignitaries come to attend functions. The work will be completed within a week and normal traffic flow will be restored at the earliest, an official of Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Italian actress Asia Argento, one of several women to accuse US movie mogul Harvey Weinstein of sexual abuse, has now claimed a Hollywood director raped her. Hollywood big shot director with Napoleon complex gave me GHB (the date rape drug) and raped me unconscious. I was 26 years old, she said in a tweet that caused outrage in Italy on Monday. #quellavoltache Hollywood big shot director with Napoleon complex gave me GHB and raped me unconscious, I was 26 years old #BalancetonPorc Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) October 15, 2017 She did not name her alleged attacker, writing in another tweet: I have in no way named the aggressor nor provided elements to identify him. So those who claim to know, writing his name here or elsewhere, are entirely responsible for their actions. Under the viral hashtag #quellavoltache (#thattimethat) which has seen Italian women come forward about sexual assaults, Argento said she had been a victim of abuse in Italy too. (COMBO) This is a combination of pictures of actresses who have accused Harvey Weinstein of sexual harassment and assault. (AFP) An Italian director/actor pulled out his penis when I was 16 years old and was in his trailer to discuss the role, she wrote, again not naming him. Last week Argento told the New Yorker magazine that she was raped by Weinstein in 1997 in a hotel room on the Cote dAzur, which she described as a horrible trauma. She said she had other sexual relations with the producer until 2002. Those were consensual but she said she nonetheless felt obligated to submit to his advances. Weinstein was a serial predator, and he did it with hundreds of women, and if the scandal did not come out sooner, it was because he was stifling everything, newspapers and journalists, Argento said in an interview in Sundays edition of the La Stampa daily. More than 20 women -- a whos who of Hollywood -- have come forward to accuse Weinstein of rape, assault and sexual harassment. Weinstein, who insists any sexual encounters were consensual, was expelled this week from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Follow @htshowbiz for more BJP president Amit Shah slammed Keralas Pinarayi Vijayan government on Tuesday, stating that the Left Front will be thrown out of power if it continues to indulge in politics of hatred and intolerance. Addressing the valedictory session of the partys two-week-long Janraksha Yatra in the state capital, Shah said it was sad that people with differing political views were not being allowed to function in certain parts of Kerala even 70 years after Independence. I would like to ask the chief minister if the mandate he received from the people was for developing the state or liquidating his political opponents. It is sad that the maximum number of political murders in the state occurred in his district Kannur. He has to take responsibility for this, the BJP president said, maintaining that there is no place for violence in a democracy. Shah had flagged off the Janraksha Yatra from Kannur in north Kerala on October 3. Violence is the trademark of communists, and political murders only multiplied after they came to power in Kerala. Thirty of our workers were killed when it was in power between 1996 and 2001; 28 were killed between 2006 and 2011; and 13 were killed in the last one-and-a-half years, he said, adding that violence cannot curb the partys growth in the state. Shah also accused the ruling front of evolving a discreet understanding with the Congress. There is a secret deal between the two, which is why no action has been taken against former chief minister Oommen Chandy despite his indictment by a judicial commission, he said. The BJPs Janaraksha Yatra at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala on Tuesday. (Vivek Nair/ HT Photo) The BJP president said the Left government will soon succumb to its own politics of violence, just like the Congress capitulated to its legacy of corruption and dynastic politics. The CPI(M) can unleash as much violence as it wants, but it cant stop our ideology. The more mud chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan slings, the better will the lotus bloom in Kerala, he said. He also criticised CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury for objecting to the BJP organising rallies outside the headquarters of rival parties. We only talk about development, and thats because we are concerned about the country. But Yechurys party destroyed our state office using bombs, he said. While Shah spoke in Hindi, his speech was translated by former state president V Muraleedharan. Shah joined the concluding session of the partys much-hyped Janraksha Yatra at Thiruvananthapuram earlier in the day. Though the BJP president had inaugurated the protest march at Kannur at the start of the month, he was forced to leave soon afterwards due to pressing engagements in the national capital. While BJP workers virtually turned the city into a saffron fortress in view of the concluding session, CPI(M) activists put up large hoardings depicting the Gorakhpur hospital tragedy and photographs of people lynched by cow vigilantes to highlight the saffron partys failings. Though the two-week-long campaign against red and jihadi terror triggered an intense war of words between the CPI(M) and the saffron outfit, the exercise failed to translate into immediate electoral gain for Shahs party. The BJP polled a 1,000-odd votes less than what it managed in the 2016 assembly election at Muslim-dominated Vengara in Malappuram district, which went to the polls during the high-profile march. The party was pushed to the fourth slot, behind the political wing of the radical Popular Front of India, in the electoral contest. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Archaeological Survey of India is set to spruce up facilities at the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world in India which has been caught in a controversy following comments by a BJP leader. The ASIs director general Usha Sharma visited Taj Mahal on Monday to prepare a checklist of features to be added for this monument of 17th century built by Shah Jahan, said P L Sahu, joint secretary, ministry of culture. We have zeroed in on 27 monuments, including Taj Mahal and Hampi, to improve visitors delight, Sahu said, adding that new features would be added and other facilities improved. Hampi structures belong to the 14th century Vijayanagara kingdom. (Praful Gangurde/HT) The monuments which have been listed as world heritage sites by the UNESCO lack adequate facilities like clean toilets, easy access, and face other issues like encroachments, touts and unauthorised guides, ASI officials admitted. The ASI is also working on mobile app and other technologies that can help do away with tourist guides. A mobile app may help tourists locate various spots, narrate the significance and history of the monuments and perform other functions of a guide. Other features include virtual museums, permanent exhibitions and interactive touch-screen monitors, besides offering top-of-the-end facilities such as books/souvenirs shops, landscaping, lightings on monuments, brail systems for visually impaired, ramps for specially-abled tourists and standardised signage. Sahu said these features would be added in three-, six- and 12-months time in phases. After the completion of the work, the number of sites may be increased to 100 gradually. Interestingly, officers of ASI have been asked to individually take the responsibility of at least one monument each. On Monday, controversial BJP MLA Sangeet Som triggered a controversy by saying that the Taj Mahal was built by someone who wanted to wipe out the Hindus. The 17th century mausoleum, Indias top tourism destination, has also seen a steady decline in footfall in recent years and is battling mounting pollution. The heritage site at Hampi in Karnataka is a group of structures belonging to the 14th century Vijayanagara kingdom. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Karnataka BJP has filed a complaint with the state Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) against chief minister Siddaramaiah, accusing him of illegally denotifying land resulting in a loss of Rs 300 crore to the Bengaluru Development Authority. The complaint on Monday, came days after the partys OBC Morcha chief BJ Puttaswamy accused Siddaramaiah of illegally denotifying land. In his complaint, NR Ramesh, a former member of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike, the city civic body, has named Siddaramaiah and senior government officials, and accused them of causing Rs 300 crore loss to Bengaluru Development Authority. Puttaswamy had on October 10 alleged that Siddaramaiah was directly responsible for the denotification of land to the extent of over six acres in survey Nos. 20 and 21 at Bhoopasandra, Bangalore North Taluk, and this had resulted in the loss of Rs 300 crore. Calling it a clear case of corruption, he had said that he would take up the issue with the ACB. Hitting back at the BJP, Siddaramaiah had accused it of making a false allegation with an intention to tarnish his image ahead of the assembly election early next year, and said he was considering taking legal action against Puttaswamy. He had also asserted that there were no documents to show that he had passed any such order. The Bharatiya Janata Party will launch a high-voltage poll campaign on November 1 in an ambitious bid to capture power in Marxist-ruled Tripura where assembly elections are scheduled for early 2018. The BJP which has never won an assembly seat in Tripura gained a back door entry into the state legislature when six rebel Trinamool Congress legislators formally joined the saffron party in August to make it the main opposition in the 60-member House. At a meeting of the partys core-committee meeting headed by its national general secretary Ram Madhav at its headquarters on Monday, the BJP decided it will intensify its campaign through rallies, padayatras and social media blitz across the state to highlight what it claims the misrule of 25-year-old old CPI (M) government. We will highlight the violence by the Marxists in Tripura and Kerala through social media. The Left has adopted the path of violence to restrain growth of BJP-RSS in these two states. But BJP will combat the CPMs violence in the coming assembly polls, Madhav who is charge of the BJP in the northeast, said while addressing the social media workshop at Town Hall. BJP president Amit Shah is expected to arrive here between November 15 and December 15 to take part in the padyatras. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to visit the state to address rallies in two phases after the election schedule is formally declared. We will start our election campaign from next month. We would start padayatra for a month from November 15. Amitji would join us within the schedule of padayatra. Our Prime Minister will visit in December and January to address campaigns in two phases, said BJP vice president of the state unit Subal Bhowmik. Pointing out that 49,000 fake voters were found in the final electoral roll in the 2013 assembly polls, Bhowmik said, The party has given special attention to ensure error-free voters list in the coming elections. The Left Front has 51 MLAs in outgoing assembly including 50 CPI (M) MLAs and one CPI member. The BJP has six members, while the Congress has three. The six MLAs who joined the BJP in August had defected from the Congress to the TMC just over a year ago. A 22-year-old Pakistani man was today arrested from along the International Border in Suchetgarh sector of RS Pura soon after he crossed over to this side of the fence, a BSF officer said. During questioning, the man, identified as Ali Raja, said that he was a tailor at Pasroor in Pakistans Sialkot, the officer said, adding Pakistani currency notes were recovered from him. Border Security Force (BSF) troops noticed that a man was trying to sneak into this side in the early hours under the cover of darkness and subsequently arrested him near the border fence, he said. Last month, scuttling a major infiltration bid, BSF troops unearthed a 14-foot-long tunnel across the IB in nearby Arnia sector which was being dug from the Pakistani side. The unfinished tunnel, approximately three-foot high and two-and-a-half feet wide, on the slopes of the bank of Dhamalla nulla (stream) was detected on September 30. A US-made compass, 60 rounds of ammunition, a hand grenade and other items, most of which carrying Pakistan markings were seized from the tunnel. The last execution carried out by the state was that of Yakub Memon, in 2015. Convicted for his role in the 1993 Bombay blasts case, the charted accountant was hanged at the Nagpur central jail. Relatives werent allowed to attend the event. Instead, his death was witnessed only by a magistrate, a doctor, and a few prison officials. Now, nobody but the people present at the spot know how Memon suffered through his last moments among the living. Did death come instantly, or did he suffer? They arent saying. Over 1,414 convicts have been hanged since Independence, but there is just as little information on how agonising their final moments were. So, why has this issue suddenly become relevant now, after all these years? At deaths door: An investigation into capital punishment in India A public interest litigation has once again ignited a moral debate on the question of hanging a convict by the neck till his eventual death. The petition, filed in the Supreme Court, wants execution by hanging to be judged against the backdrop of international opinion and evolving standards of human decency. Hanging has been Indias favoured mode of execution for over 100 years now, although the armed forces also regard death by firing squad as a legal way to end a convicts life. The question of the noose was addressed by the Supreme Court in the Deepa vs Union of India judgment in 1983, almost 34 years ago, but the horror that accompanies hanging was explicitly expressed only in this one. Justice Bhagwati, in his minority judgement, provided a graphic description of the execution process. Heres an extract: The day before an execution, the prisoner goes through the harrowing experience of being weighed, measured for the length of (the) drop to assure breaking of the neck, the size of the neck, body measurements, et cetera. When the trap springs, he dangles at the end of the rope. There are times when the neck does not break, and the prisoner strangles to death. His eyes almost pop out of his head, his tongue swells and protrudes from his mouth, his neck may or may not break, and the rope claims large portions of skin and flesh from the side of the face. He urinates, he defecates, and droppings fall to the floor while witnesses look on, and almost all executions have had one or more person fainting or being helped out of the witness room. The prisoner remains dangling from the end of the rope for eight to 14 minutes before the doctor climbs up a small ladder and listens to his heartbeats with a stethoscope and pronounces him dead. Read more: Yakub Memon hanging: For every execution, 1250 were commuted While the case primarily tested the constitutionality of death by hanging, it also discussed alternative methods of execution. However, the eventual conclusion was that hanging is indeed the most humane, painless and speedy way to execute a felon. Name your poison There are nine common methods of execution: Hanging, firing squad, shooting, beheading, lethal injection, stoning, lethal gas, electrocution, and a particularly ghastly one that involves throwing people from a height. The most common method is hanging, with as many as 60 countries authorising this practice. The least common methods are electrocution, lethal gas execution and throwing off heights. The United States is the only country to authorise both electrocution and lethal gas execution. Iran is the only country to authorise pushing individuals from heights Ruling in defence of hanging, the judges said: Hanging by rope is not a cruel way to execute the death sentence. The mechanics of hanging have undergone significant improvement over the years, and it has almost been perfected into a science. The system is consistent with the obligation of the state to ensure that the process of execution is conducted with decency and decorum, and without causing degradation or brutality of any kind. Read more: What are the execution methods around the world? The court then looked into alternative methods of execution that are in vogue elsewhere. Electrocution, lethal gas, shooting and lethal injection were all dismissed as likely alternatives because they were found to have no demonstrable advantage over hanging. The option of electrocution was rejected because it was not an entirely painless mode of execution. Besides, power cuts have been considered as an impediment in the use of the electric chair in America. With the frequency of power cuts in our country, the electric chair will become an instrument of torture, the judges said. They also refused to consider lethal injection as a mode of execution, stating that it was by-and-large an untried method. The firing squad idea was shot down on the grounds that it was an unreliable technique, and not a very civilised way of ending somebodys life. The gas chamber method was likewise dubbed as a complicated one that would expose the prisoner to an uncommon level of torture. Nevertheless, it has to be acknowledged that a lot has changed since the 1983 judgment. Hanging as a mode of execution has come under severe scrutiny. In 2003, the Law Commission of India took it upon itself to study the pros and cons of hanging as the choice mode of execution. This exercise, which invited comments on the matter from judges, police and members of the legal fraternity, threw up some astounding results. According to the study, as many as 80% of the judges said the mode of executing the death penalty should be changed. They were all in favour of the lethal injection. However, this method is also known to have its problems, with several instances of botched-up executions cropping up in recent times. The jury is still out on the pertinent question of, if not hanging, what is the best way to legally kill a person? The debate, at least, has begun. The charges against writer Dalit writer Kancha Ilaiah, a staunch critic of the caste system, are an absurd assault on the right to freedom of expression, Amnesty International India said on Tuesday. Kancha Ilaiahs latest book, titled Samajika Smugglerlu Komatollu (Social smugglers Komatis), challenges the caste system in India and criticises the social and economic capital enjoyed by dominant castes that allows discrimination to prevail. On October 12, a complaint was filed in a court in Telangana stating that the book had hurt the sentiments of the Vyasa community. On instructions of the court, a case was registered against Kancha Ilaiah. The charges include accusations of promoting enmity between different social groups and trying to maliciously outrage religious beliefs. He has also been charged under Section 3 of Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. If convicted, he could face up to five years in jail. The charges brought against Kancha Ilaiah expose the dangerous environment that academics and other human rights defenders face in India, in which the right to freedom of expression is constantly under attack, said Asmita Basu, Programmes Director, Amnesty International India. The Supreme Court had already dismissed a petition to ban his book and reaffirmed the right to freedom of expression. The authorities must drop these charges against Kancha Ilaiah and refrain from pursuing further cases that stem solely from the peaceful exercise of freedom of expression. Kancha Ilaiah has previously faced charges that stemmed solely from the exercise of his right to freedom of expression, Amnesty said. In September 2017, a case was filed under similar accusations. The publishing of his book has also sparked a range of threats and attacks against him. The authorities have an obligation to protect freedom of expression and should thoroughly investigate these threats and attacks, bringing those suspected of criminal responsibility to justice, said Basu. Other writers had faced similar threats and harassment, some have even been killed, Amnesty said. Early in August, the Jharkhand state government banned a book by activist and writer Hansda Sowvendra Shekhar. Gauri Lankesh, M.M Kalburgi, Govind Pansare and Narendra Dabholkar were killed in recent years following threats and attacks. Threats and harassment against those who write against the caste system cannot become the order of the day. The authorities must put an end to the atmosphere of fear and impunity by effectively protecting the right to freedom of expression, said Basu. Eight fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly fishing in their territorial waters off Thalaimannar coast, the police said here on Tuesday. According to information reaching here, the Sri Lankan Navy also seized the boat and have taken the fishermen to Thalaimannar district naval camp, they said. The fishermen are from Thangachimadam in Rameswaram, the police said. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu information technology minister M Manikandan told reporters in Ramanathapuram that the state government will take up the matter of the arrest with the Centre. On October 12, five fishermen from here were arrested by the Sri Lankan navy for allegedly fishing off Neduntheevu. The Union government has revived a proposal to set up a national university for police that will help overhaul their training, and drive R&D and policy making pertaining to law and order in the country, according to sources. According to the plan, the institution will teach skills to deal with new policing challenges such as cyber crime, and better mechanisms to maintain law and order, and investigation abilities. Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba will discuss the plan for setting up the University on Wednesday. It is still at a conceptual stage, said a government official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The cabinet approved a proposal for a National Police University in 2008 but two years later, then minister of state for home Ajay Maken said in a Parliament reply that the proposal stood withdrawn in view of the inherent merits in conducting such courses through existing universities. Experts said a dedicated university is needed. Its a step in the right direction. There is an urgent need for have institutional study of issues like terrorism, organised crime, money laundering etc. We are talking about smart cities but smart cities can only come with smart police and this university will help achieve that objective, said Prakash Singh, former BSF chief and Uttar Pradesh director general of police. If the proposal goes through, the university will provide degrees for courses. But there are issues that need to be hammered out like whether the degree-holders from the universities will be absorbed in police forces across the country. We have to bear in mind that policing is a state subject and hiring is done by the respective states. And also, if students are absorbed by the private sector, the university may have to offer courses that suit requirements of jobs in private sector, added the home ministry source. The university will also act as a repository of data on policing in the country. It may as well conduct research on various challenges and prepare policy suggestions. At the moment, there is a National Police Academy that offers shot-term courses and training, but mainly for Indian Police Service officers. There is also a Sardar Patel University of Police, Security and Criminal Justice in Jodhpur that was established by the Rajasthan government. When the Union cabinet recently approved umbrella scheme of modernisation of police forces between 2017 and 2020, it was decided to upgrade the Sardar Patel Global Centre for Security, Counter Terrorism and Anti Insurgency in Jaipur. The issue of establishing the police university was also discussed in the last annual conference of police chiefs, held in Hyderabad. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted the Congress on Monday and said the Opposition party didnt win elections on developmental issues but employed caste, religion and their dynastic rule to mislead the people. The Prime Minister was addressing lakhs of BJP workers on the outskirts of Ahmedabad in what could be his last big rally before Gujarat election dates are announced and the model code of conduct comes into force. The rally was held to mark the conclusion of BJPs Gujarat Gaurav Yatra (march for Gujarats honour) ahead of the high-octane electoral battle for the state where the party holds sway. Here are five key points from PM Modis speech: Congress conspiracy Modi said there was a conspiracy was by the Congress to put him in jail, in an apparent reference to accusations of his involvement in the 2002 post-Godhra riots. You did not waste any opportunity to strike. When I was the chief minister and you were in power at the Centre, you hatched a conspiracy to put me in jail. You knew that it was not possible until Amit Shah (BJP chief) was put behind bars, you did that. This is the poison, the malice you harbour. Since Patel conceived the Narmada project, it was not allowed to be completed for 40-50 years, Modi said as he repeatedly attacked the Nehru-Gandhi family in his speech. Referring to Congress leaders, including party president Sonia Gandhi and her deputy Rahul Gandhi being on bail in the National Herald case, Modi said,The whole party is on bail. Development vs dynasty Modi employed juxtapositions to describe the ideologies of the rival parties ahead of Gujarat assembly elections. This election is a duel between vikasvaad (development) and vanshvaad (dynastic) rule. Development is going to win and dynastic rule is going to lose, he said. Communalism, casteism, dynastic rule, misleading the people these are the instruments which Congress uses to win elections. They dont have it in them to win on the issue of development. Modi said. The prime ministers remark came against the backdrop of the agitation by the influential Patel community for reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. Hardik Patel, the quota stir spearhead, had welcomed Rahul Gandhi on a recent visit to Gujarat. They called us anti-Dalit, anti-Adivasi, an urban party. The people gave them an apt reply. None of the charges stuck. Today, we have the highest number of Dalit and Adivasi MPs. The highest number of MPs from rural areas are of the BJP, he said. Congress doesnt like Gujarat Modi accused the Congress of treating Gujarati leaders unfairly and named first home minister Sardar Patel and former prime minister Morarji Desai among the partys victims. They dont like Gujarat and Gujaratis. Gujarat has been an eyesore for the party and the family. When Morarji Desai became prime minister, they spread rumours about what he drank and what he didnt. They didnt talk about his ideals, about his dedication to Mahatma Gandhis cause, he said. Misguiding the country on GST The Prime Minister also slammed the opposition party for misguiding the country on GST, and clarified that the tax rates are fixed by a panel comprising ministers of all the states, including those ruled by the Congress. GST decisions are not taken by Modi or Parliament. All parties, all states, are its part. Central government is its 30th part. Congress is also a partner in GST decisions. They should not spread lies on GST, he said, assuring the Gujarati business community that he will not allow them to suffer. Black money-free day On demonetisation, another issue being aggressively raised by Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi in Gujarat, Modi said, I have read that the Congress is going to observe November 8 as black day. BJP, on the other hand, will celebrate it as a black money-free day. He added licences of over two lakh shell companies have been cancelled following the banning of the old 500- and 1000-rupee notes. The Congress is neck deep in corruption. Its leadership is out on bail. Will you allow such a party to rule in Gujarat? Modi asked. (With agency inputs) The Calcutta high court temporarily restrained the Union government on Tuesday from withdrawing paramilitary reinforcements from the north Bengal hills, where the situation is yet to return to normal after a summer-long unrest triggered by the Gorkhaland secessionist movement. Judge Harish Tandon said the reinforcements roughly 20 companies of the Central Reserve Police (CRPF) Force and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in all will remain in place till the next hearing which will take place after the court vacation ends. The Union home ministry had earlier informed the state that 15 of the 20 companies will be withdrawn, beginning with 7 this week. The decision triggered anger from the state government, which saw a political motive in the pull-out. Darjeeling, in the northern hills of Bengal, has been on edge since June 8 when protests by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) flared. The unrest has killed 13 people, including civilians and police. Much of the region was in a shut down for four months, with the situation brought under control with the help of massive paramilitary reinforcements along with state police. On Sunday, the Union government said 10 of the 15 companies will be withdrawn since the situation was camp and the men were needed for election duty in Himachal Pradesh. The decision was unfortunate, unethical, undemocratic and unconstitutional, Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday, after which the centre pared back the withdrawal to 7 companies. Each company has 100 personnel. Hearing a petition by the state government, justice Tandon said the Centre could not cite sufficient reason for withdrawal of the forces. He also observed that the deployment of the central forces was done by an order from the Supreme Court. The judge clarified that the order is an interim stay, and the matter will be heard when the court resumes after vacation. STATE COMPENSATION In a separate development, the state government announced its decision to release an additional Rs 500 crore for the hills to partly compensate for the losses incurred there due to the indefinite bandh. According to our estimates the loss on account of the strike has been around Rs 1,000 crore. So an additional amount of Rs 500 crore will be disbursed by the state government so that the losses can be compensated, said an official. Fifty Indian peacekeepers stationed in South Sudan have been awarded the UN Medal for their professionalism and service in protecting civilians and building durable peace in the conflict-ridden country. The Indian peacekeepers are part of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The are deployed with the Indian battalion stationed at Bor in the Jonglei region of South Sudan. They were presented with the award recently by UNMISS Force Commander General Frank Mushyo Kamanzi. Presenting the award, General Kamanzi acknowledged their contribution in carrying out patrols across the region as well as providing a safe and secure environment for the 2,500 civilians who have sought sanctuary at the UN Protection of Civilians site at Bor, a media release said. I would like to thank the Indian battalion for their courage and professionalism in executing their mandate in Jonglei, said General Kamanzi. The local government in Jonglei also paid tribute to the Indian troops. The Indian battalion had played an important role in keeping the community safe as well as encouraging local peace efforts, said Agot Alier, Jonglei acting governor. They had also provided much-needed services to the community outside of their core mandate, such as medical care for local residents and support for local farmers with veterinary treatment for their animals, he said in a media release issued by the UN. The battalion has been intimately associated with peacekeeping efforts and the battalion has supported the mandate of the United Nations and the overall peace process, said Alier. Indian ambassador to South Sudan, Srikumar Menon, attended the medal ceremony and thanked the peacekeepers for their commitment and service. India is committed to the objectives of the UN Charter and therefore is ready to support the United Nations peacekeeping efforts globally, he said. The Madhya Pradesh police have arrested two persons from Mumbai for allegedly misappropriating lakhs of rupees belonging to at least 13 people through credit/debit card details obtained illegally through darknet with the help of a Pakistani handler. Ramkumar Pillai and Ramkumar Nadar were arrested after Jaikishan Singh, a manager with Bank of India, Ujjain, complained that Rs 72,000 had been illegally spent from his credit card. Their handler, Sheikh Afzal operates from Lahore in Pakistan and has access to darknet (hidden websites not accessible through search engines) e-commerce website FE Shop, based in Russia, which trades in illegal credit/debit card and other financial transaction details, Indore cyber cell police chief, Jitendra Singh said. The duo, with the help of Afzal, used to buy credit/debit card details for $9-$12 and use those details to buy goods and flight tickets from foreign-based websites in which one time password (OTP) was not required. Afzal held the master control for entering into FE Shop and he had the mechanism to keep tabs on what the others were doing, Singh said. Police said Nadar and Pillai used to interact daily with Afzal over Skype and transferred half of the defrauded money to him through virtual currency Bitcoins, which can be traded without any personal identification. As Nadar had worked as a manager in a reputed bank in Mumbai earlier, he used to get refunds for using the credit cards illegally. The gang has been operating from 2013. We have so far identified 13 victims and are still calculating the amount defrauded, Singh said, adding that it ran into lakhs. The police said Nadar and Pillai lived a lavish lifestyle and used to frequently fly abroad for holidays and buy expensive clothes. Nadar (a manager with reputed bank till last year) bought an Armani suit for his girlfriend for Rs 66,000 from Bangkok, Singh said. Police traced the two after they bought a flight tickets online that gave away his location in Mumbai. Cops recovered 25 credit and debit cards and several mobile phones from them. More than half a century ago, the convergence point of roads leading to three villages in western Assams Nalbari district was named Milan Chowk or centre of unity. About 10,000 people live in these three villages Sandheli, Pokua and Panigaon about 75km north-west of Guwahati and half of them are Hindus and the other half Muslims. When the inhabitants of these three villages decided to organise a Kali Puja in 2015, they realised why their forefathers had chosen the name. The invite for the Kali Puja features names of both Hindus and Muslims. (HT Photo) Our forefathers vowed not to let communal disturbances elsewhere touch the three villages. And regular meetings at Milan Chowk have helped maintain harmony even in the toughest of times, Mohammed Ibrahim Ali, president of Milan Chowk Committee, told the Hindustan Times. During such meetings, the villagers decided to help organise each others festivals and share good vibes. But it was in 2015 that they started organising Kali Puja on a large scale. This is the third time that we are organising Shyama Puja. We ensure that the rituals are according to tradition, Ali said. Shyama is another name of Kali the Hindu goddess of dissolution and destruction. The committee organises festivals celebrated by people of both religions such as Eid and Rongali Bihu. Paramesh Sarma, the committees working president, said festivals organised jointly by Hindus and Muslims are occasions for people of the three villages to catch up. Unlike olden times, work takes many people out of villages these days, he said. Accordingly to Rijumoni Ahmed, the committees secretary, the community feasting after the festive rituals is what the villagers look forward to. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON They fought shoulder to shoulder for Telangana statehood once, now they do not see eye to eye. For Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Raos government, his former ally M Kodandaram today is a suspected Maoist sympathiser. Additionally, KCR (as the chief minister is popularly known) describes Kodandaram, a retired Osmania University political science professor, as a Congress agent. Kodandaram, chairman of the Telangana Joint Action Committee (TJAC) formed in 2009 to fight for statehood, has been leading mass movements against KCRs Telangana Rashtra Samithi government for the last three years. He accuses KCR of nepotism and betraying the spirit of Telangana. Kodandaram recently gave a call to people to dethrone KCR in the next elections. The TJAC, which basked in the glow of Telanganas formation in 2014, remains an influential pressure group even as KCR stays the face of the statehood movement. The government is not amused. According to Telangana home minister Nayini Narasimha Reddy, police have information that Maoists are supporting Kodandarams mass movements. Reddy said he directed the police not to allow the TJAC chief to tour the districts. In the last one year, Kodandaram has extensively toured different parts of the state under a movement titled Amarula Spoorthy Yatra (tour to revive the spirit of those who lost their lives for achieving Telangana statehood). On Saturday, police detained Kodandaram at Medipally on the outskirts of Hyderabad when he was on his way to Jangaon district to participate in yet another event under the Amarula Spoorthy Yatra banner. Police released him after seven hours. KCR is dismissive of Kodandaram and accuses him of conspiring against his government. He was just one of the lakhs of Telangana activists I groomed. Now, he has the audacity to give a call to the people to dethrone me. He does not have the ability to win even as a sarpanch, let alone running a party to fight against me, the CM said at a recent press meet. Kodandaram dismissed allegations of being a Maoist sympathiser and working for the Congress First, let the government decide whether I am working for the Congress party or the Maoists. I have no personal agenda, except to fight on issues concerning the people, which the TRS government is ignoring. He added, The spirit of the Telangana is completely lost and the state has become a personal property of KCR and his family. He is trying to suppress every voice of dissent, giving the go-by to democratic traditions. Kodandaram said TJACs agenda was to involve people in governance and fight for their rightful share in the states development process. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Former Kerala chief minister Oommen Chandy, named as an accused in the 2013 solar panel scam, on Tuesday said he will seek legal recourse. Speaking to reporters here, Chandy said: I do not fear anything as I have done no wrong. It is quite natural to know the contents of that report where we are all implicated. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has already rejected the demand for making public the report of the Justice G Sivarajan Commission, which probed the solar scam, in which Chandy has now been arraigned as prime accused by the government. We wish to know what was the basis of implicating us and also on what basis and what evidence are we charged. I know that I have done no wrong and hence I want to know who have all given the evidence, said Chandy. After having asked for the report through the Right to Information (RTI), if they do not give, I will seek legal recourse, he added. The probe decision was announced by Vijayan last week, based on the recommendations of the Solar Scam Commission report submitted by Justice (retd) G. Sivarajan in September. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Director General of Police Rajesh Diwan has been set up to investigate the cases -- both criminal and also a sexual harassment case against Chandy and close to a dozen senior Congress leaders, some of whom are former ministers, sitting legislators and also former legislators. A social media campaign #StandWithOC launched on Sunday by Chandys well-wishers stating he is being hounded by the Vijayan government, featured in the top 10 in the country at the end of the day. #StandWithOC was launched by his ardent fans, a family member of the former Chief Minister told IANS. The solar scam made headlines four years ago with the arrest of Saritha Nair and her partner Biju Radhakrishnan, who had allegedly conned businessmen by flaunting their high-level connections, including with Chandy who was then the Chief Minister. The case broke out in June 2013 during Chandys rule (2011-16) after reports surfaced that three staffers in the Chief Ministers Office had contacts with a couple who cheated many investors of money after promising to supply solar panels to them. A PDP worker and a militant were killed when one of the latters colleagues opened fire during a scuffle between them in south Kashmirs Shopian district on Monday night. According to police, three militants had turned up outside the house of Mohammad Ramzan Sheikh (50), a PDP worker and former sarpanch. As Sheikhs family resisted the militants, one of them, Shaukat Kumar, purportedly opposed the plan to kill him, and wanted to shoot his leg only. In the scuffle that ensued, one of the militants opened fire and it hit both Sheikh as well as the militant, superintendent of police, Shopian, A S Dinkar said. Sheikh died on the way to hospital. Dinkar, however, did not confirm that Kumar had opposed Sheikhs killing. He just said that preliminary reports only suggest that one militant fired and it hit both. Former chief minister and NC leader Omar Abdullah condemned the targeted killing of grass-root politicians at the hands of terrorists. The killing comes two days after the suspected militants attacked a police vehicle in neighbouring Kulgam district, killing a cop. 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. 1- Gujarat election will be battle between development and dynasty politics: Modi attacks Cong on home turf Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday termed the Gujarat assembly elections as a battle between vikasvaad (development) and vanshvaad (dynasty), targeting the Congress on a range of issues, including GST, corruption and the partys anti-Gujarat stand. Modi was addressing lakhs of BJP page presidents (in-charges of electoral roll pages) on the outskirts of Ahmedabad in what could be his last big rally before elections are announced. With Congress targeting the Modi government with a Vikas Gandho thayo che (development has gone crazy) campaign on social media, the PM dared it to contest the polls on the development plank. Communalism, casteism, dynastic rule, misleading the people these are the instruments which Congress uses to win elections. They dont have it in them to win on the issue of development, the prime minister said. Read the story here. 2- Rahul issues weather report for Gujarat, forecasts jumlon ki baarish ahead of election Rhetoric will rain down on Gujarat, Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi said in a weather report ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to his home state on Monday. Gandhis dig comes in the wake of speculation that the prime minister may announce a host of sops for poll-bound Gujarat. Weather report: Ahead of elections, Gujarat will today have rain of rhetoric, he said on Twitter, using the phrase jumlon ki baarish in his Hindi tweet. The Congress vice president also tagged a Hindustan Times report headlined As Gujarat waits for poll date, state gets projects worth nearly Rs 12,500 crore with his tweet. Read the story here. 3- Humour and sarcasm give new edge to Rahul Gandhis social media campaign Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi is mixing humour and sarcasm more often to pack a new punch in his social media campaigns ahead of elections in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. Political rivals have often criticised and ridiculed the Gandhi scion for what they say is his failure to communicate well with the electorate, calling him a confused leader. However, after his recent visit to the US, experts said Gandhi looked more confident and spoke impressively. The renewed vigour in the Congress vice presidents Twitter strategy is evident in his posts. On Monday, Gandhi turned a weatherman, declaring on Twitter that a spell of rhetoric would rain down on Gujarat ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the election-bound state. Read the story here. 4- BJP Indias richest party with Rs 869 cr, Cong second with Rs 759 cr: Watchdog report The ruling BJP is the richest among Indias seven national parties, having declared assets worth nearly Rs 894 crore in 2015-16, said a report released by the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) on Monday. The document collated by the advocacy group went on to term the Congress, which declared assets to the tune of Rs 759 crore in the same period, as a close second on the list. While the BJP was found to have declared liabilities of around Rs 25 crore during that time, the figure for the Congress stood at Rs 329 crore. The report was based on the declaration of assets and liabilities by national parties from 2004-05 to 2015-16. Read the story here. 5- Day not far when BJP will try to change countrys name: Mamata Banerjee West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday lashed out against BJP leader Sangeet Soms comments on the Taj Mahal, saying it was a manifestation of the BJPs political agenda and said the day was not far when the party will try to change the countrys name as well. Som had said that the Taj Mahal - one of Indias top tourist destinations and a world heritage site -- was built by invaders and was a blot on Indian culture and history. Banerjee alleged that the BJP was coming up with such statements to divide the people. The Trinamool Congress chief said: The less we talk about the BJP leaders the better. I feel ashamed to speak on comments made by them. They are not doing any development work, but only making divisive statements with a political agenda. We dont believe in dividing people like this. Read the story here. 6- Members can hold any view: BJP distances itself from Soms Taj Mahal remarks The BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government distanced itself on Monday from controversial comments by firebrand MLA Sangeet Som, who questioned the Taj Mahals place in history and said the iconic monument was built by traitors who targeted Hindus. The chief minister has made it clear that the Taj is part of our heritage. My government has already sanctioned Rs 155 crore for the development of parks and various facilities in and around Taj, said state tourism minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi. When asked what she made of the BJP lawmakers claims, she said, Well, every individual is free to make an opinion but as far as the government is concerned Taj is very much on our priority list. Read the story here. 7- Aarushi-Hemraj murder case: Rajesh, Nupur Talwar walk free after 4 years in jail Rajesh and Nupur Talwar were released from a jail on Monday, four days after being acquitted by Allahabad high court in the murder of their teenage daughter Aarushi and domestic help Hemraj in their apartment in Noida in 2008. The two, carrying three bags, were escorted by a posse of policemen as they emerged out of Ghaziabads Dasna jail, and stood for a while as the photographers clicked them. Rajesh Talwars brother Dinesh and their lawyers Manoj Sisodia and Tanveer Ahmed Mir went to the Dasna Jail to receive them. The Allahabad high courts decision is a stamp on the innocence of Rajesh and Nupur Talwar. This is what they deserved, said Mir. It is my humble request to everybody in the media that what was snatched from my clients, please restore that dignity to them. Please let them live in peace. Read the story here. 8- Over 4/5th of Indians trust govt, majority support military rule: Pew study More than four-fifths of Indian citizens trust their government, but interestingly, a majority of Indians also support military rule and autocracy, a latest Pew survey said on Monday. In India, where the economy has grown on average by 6.9 per cent since 2012, 85 per cent (of people) trust their national government, Pew Research said in a report based on its survey on governance and trust among key countries across the world. Notably, in India, which has strong democratic credentials since the last seven decades, according to Pew, a majority (55 per cent) of its people support autocracy in one way or the other. In fact, more than one-fourth (27 per cent) of them want a strong leader. Read the story here. 9- Govt issues advisory to maintain secrecy after Modis itinerary is leaked The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed state governments to adhere to the Officials Secrets Act (OSA) to maintain secrecy of classified documents and VVIP programmes after minute-to-minute details of a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi were found circulating on social media. Advisories in this regard have been issued to all states twice this year, the latest being last month. Sources in MHA maintain that all precautions are being taken to avoid security breaches. The trigger for these advisories was related to a visit made by PM Modi Madhya Pradeshs Alirajpur district in August last year. Entire details of the PMs visit issued by Special Protection Group (SPG) were found to be circulating on Whatsapp mobile application before the date of the visit. Read the story here. 10- Spain gives Catalans three days to drop independence bid Madrid on Monday warned Catalonias separatist leader that he has only three days left to return to legality after he refused to say whether he would follow through on a threat to declare independence from Spain. Responding to an initial deadline set by the central government, Carles Puigdemont called for talks with Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy as soon as possible as Spain struggles with its worst political crisis in decades. But Puidgemont stopped short of giving a definitive yes or no as demanded by Madrid, and Spain gave him until Thursday morning to clarify. Anything less than a full climb-down by Thursdays 0800 GMT deadline is likely to prompt moves by Madrid to impose direct control over the semi-autonomous region -- the so-called nuclear option. Read the story here. 11- Ranji Trophy: Ravindra Jadejas all-round show guides Saurashtra to big win Ravindra Jadeja bagged nine wickets after scoring a double hundred to guide Saurashtra to an innings and 212 run victory over Jammu and Kashmir on day three of the Group B Ranji Trophy match. As many as 16 wickets fell on day three after Jammu and Kashmir started the day at 103 for four. Jadeja, after completing a double hundred on day two, took four wickets in the first innings while the remaining were picked up by another left-arm spinner, Dharmendersinh Jadeja. Read the story here. A Dalit college student going home with her fiance after visiting a temple was raped in Odishas Ganjam district by six men who recorded the assault on their phones, in the latest incident of sexual violence against women in the country, police said on Tuesday. The second-year student and her fiance were on her way back from Thakurani Temple in Bhanjanagar area of Ganjam on Monday afternoon when the men on two motorcycles intercepted them. They allegedly thrashed the couple and snatched away three mobile phones from them. They then took her to a nearby cashew nut grove and sexually assaulted her. While main accused Siba Nayak committed the act, his accomplices recorded the incident on their mobile phones. The woman alleged that no passersby came to her rescue. Ganjam superintendent of police Ashish Singh said the woman knows two to three men who assaulted her. Singh added the woman will undergo a medical examination. All the six accused have been arrested under various sections of Indian Penal Code for rape, abduction, dacoity. They have also been booked under SC/ST Atrocities Act and IT Act. The latest incident comes a week after the gangrape of a minor tribal girl by four Border Security Force personnel in Koraput. The incident rocked the state and the Congress party resorted to shutdowns and marches demanding a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the victim and arrest of the accused. A litigation was filed in Odisha high court seeking a federal probe into the sexual assault. Odisha reported the fifth-highest number of rape cases in the country, according to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). The report said in 2015, 2251 rape cases were registered in the coastal state, making it the fifth most unsafe state for women after Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. The bullet riddled body of a Gaon Sathi was found Tuesday near a village in Kandhamal district, 400 km west of Bhubaneswar, two days after he was abducted allegedly by Maoists two days ago, police said. A few posters bearing the name of BGN (Bansadhara-Ghumusar-Nagavali) division of Maoists were found near the body with a message that Basant Kumar Bhatt, a Gaon Sathi of Durgapanga village was killed because he was a police informer. The Gaon Sathi of Durgapanga was engaged in providing information to police about Maoists activities. Other police informers would also face similar fate if they continue to work for police, the posters read. Kandhamal superintendent of police Mitrabhanu Mahapatra said Maoists had never issued any threat Bhatt. The area had not seen any Maoist movement for quite some time, said Mahapatra. The Gaon Sathis are local youths who facilitate smooth implementation and execution of National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NRGES) and have been hired by the Odisha goveernment. With their strength depleting and their area of influence shrinking in the face of concerted action by security forces, Maoists are venting their ire on villagers, branding the police informers if they dont follow their diktats. Last week, the rebels left posters and letters in Badatekguda area under Kalimela block with directions that at least 10 people from each village join the Maoist camps and join the organisation at Helkanur hill on October 25. They threatened that the police informers will not be spared at any cost. A similar warning was issued to the surrendered rebels for leaving the cadre. Police officials said this year alone the Maoists have shot dead over a dozen civilians including tribal labourer, a sarpanch and a Gram Rozgar Sevak terming them as police informers. Read more: Maoists acknowledge setback as violence falls 53% in 6 years In Malkangiri district, where Maoists are under siege after last years setback in cut-off area, the red rebels have killed seven civilians so far, including two this month. In February this year, Maoists abducted five people in Malkangiri district on suspicion of being police informers and thrashed them at praja court injuring them grievously. Malkangiris superintendent of police (SP) Jagmohan Meena said the killing of innocent civilians reflected the rebels desperation. None of the people killed by Maoists this year were our informers. They target anyone who is doing good work in village and bump him off. If there is no development in the area it suits their agenda, said Meena. The Maoists have also been threatening tribal families who they think are sympathetic to police, to leave their homes. Last month, 9 members of a tribal family of Pamel village in Malkangiri fled their homes due to Maoist threat. In April this year, seven tribal families of Elkanur village under Kalimela police limits in Malkangiri district had to flee their village due to Maoist threat. A 22-year-old Pakistani man, who was nabbed during the early hours on Tuesday from along the International Border in RS Pura sector of Jammu district, was sent back to his country after Indian officials contacted their Pakistani counterparts. The Pakistani national, identified as Ali Raja, a native of Pasroor in Sialkot district of Pakistans Punjab province, was nabbed in Suchetgarh area of RS Pura, officials said. A Border Security Force (BSF) officer told Hindustan Times that the man was repatriated on Tuesday itself. Intelligence sources said that after questioning him, the BSF contacted Pakistan Rangers and informed them about the man. After their verification procedure, Pakistan Rangers admitted that the man belonged to their country. He was handed over via the Octroi post in Suchetgarh, a source said. The BSF also seized some Pakistani currency from him. Early Tuesday, BSF personnel noticed the man trying to sneak into the Indian side under the cover of darkness and subsequently arrested him near the border fence. Last month, BSF troops scuttled a major infiltration bid and unearthed a 14-foot-long tunnel across the border in nearby Arnia sector. The unfinished tunnel, approximately 3-foot high and 2.5-foot wide, on the slopes of the bank of the Dhamalla nullah, was detected on September 30. A US-made compass, 60 rounds of ammunition, a hand grenade and other items, most of which had Pakistani markings, were found in the tunnel. From being a firefighter to a poker player, a paratrooper to a railway porter and a crematorium manager to a bartender, there is little now that women cant do. A major credit of this goes to women who were the first to break the glass ceiling and enter professions that were, not long ago, considered reserved only for men. Next month, President Ram Nath Kovind will felicitate 100 such women at an event, the date for which is yet to be finalised. The names of recipients were picked by the women and child development (WCD) ministry from record books, inputs from different central ministries, state governments and media reports. We have been felicitating unusual groupings of women for the last two years and have honoured 100 women achievers from across the country. This time, we thought it fitting to bring together women who have been the first to make a career in male-dominated professions on a common platform and laud their achievement, Union WCD minister Maneka Gandhi told HT. This time, we thought it fitting to bring together women who have been the first to make a career in male-dominated professions on a common platform and laud their achievement The list has a mix of first-time achievers from diverse fields, including Ira Singhal, the first differently abled woman to top the civil services; Punita Arora, the first woman to become lieutenant general; Priya Jhingan, the first cadet to join Indian Army; Radhika Menon, the first female merchant navy captain; and Harshini Kanhekar, the first woman firefighter. The list also includes women who made unusual career choices, such as Chennai-based Praveena Solomon, the first woman to manage a crematorium; Manju from Rajasthan, who has the distinction of being the first female railway station porter in India; Muskan Sethi, the first professional poker player; and Shatbhi Basu, the first female bartender. Aditi Pant, the first woman from India to reach Antarctica; Seema Rao, first woman commando trainer; and Sonalini Menon, the first woman coffee taster in the country, have also been shortlisted. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Rajasthans Hasan Khan, 55, and his family have a riveting story. The problem is security agencies do not believe him and their accounts yet. According to the Khan family of Siyalon Ki Basti village in Jaisalmer district, about 570 km west of state capital Jaipur, Hasan left home and walked over the unfenced border to Pakistan in 1990 to take care of his ailing brother-in-law. By the time he wanted to return, a fence was up owing to concerns over porous borders. Hasan stayed put in Pakistan for 27 years. He sneaked back to India in April this year. Police arrested him last week from a bus stand in Jaisalmer, the westernmost frontier of India and close to the Pakistan border, and are questioning him to find out if he is a Pakistani spy. His parents father Peeru Khan, 90, and mother Batti, 80 insist he is not. He came back to take care of us. Did he do anything wrong? asks Batti. She is frail and a little hard of hearing, but her responses are clear. Batti and Peeru were in their two-room house when HT visited Siyalon Ki Basti. Hasans wife and their two children were out, working in the fields. Batti and Peeru Khan at their home in Siyalon Ki Basti. (HT Photo) So why did Hasan decide to return after 27 years? Only God knows and he knows, said Batti. After questioning Hasan, police found Batti and one of his cousins went to Pakistan in 2014 and urged him to return as Peeru was not keeping well. Rajeev Dutta, additional superintendent of police, CID (border intelligence), said Hasan paid a Pakistani Rs 5,000 to help him cross the border. After entering India, Hasan Khan came to Siyalon Ki Basti and later visited Gujarat, Maharashtra and many other places. He was arrested on October 9, Dutta told HT. Hasan told the police he had to sneak in because he did not have any documents to prove Indian citizenship or come back through legitimate routes. Social workers say there should be a mechanism for people such as Hasan who do not have valid documents. On humanitarian grounds, India and Pakistan should facilitate the exchange of people who crossed over inadvertently when the border was unfenced, said activist Bhuvesh Jain who has been highlighting the plight of Rajasthanis locked up in Pakistani jails. Apart from the divided families, at least four persons from Rajasthan are languishing in Pakistani jails after inadvertently crossing over many years ago, Jain added. Hasans wife declined to speak about him when she returned from the fields. Batti said when Hasan returned it was awkward. We were shocked and surprised when he appeared suddenly. His wife was so upset with him that she didnt speak to him for hours. Neighbours of the family claimed they did not know much about Hasan, his disappearance and return. Hasans sister married into a family of farmers in Pakistans Umarkot in the 1970s. Those days, it was quite common for people living on the either side of the border to marry into each others families, said Batti. In Pakistan, Hasan took care of his brother-in-laws farm. My son-in-law died many years ago. Batti said their family does not have the means for a legal fight to prove Hasans innocence. Police should release him. We are poor and cant fight in the courts. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The CBI on Tuesday told the Kerala high court it is ready to probe all the political murders that took place in Kannur in the past one year, officials said. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) counsel told this to the court, when a petition by a Kannur-based trust came up, demanding CBI probe into the seven political murders that took place in Kannur district, in which the CPI-M workers are alleged to have murdered BJP/RSS workers. The trust demanded a probe into the seven murders took place between October 2016 and July 2017. Hearing the petition, the court said it was astonished as to why this is happening in one district and directed the police to file detailed reports in all the seven cases on October 25. Responding to it, advocate general CP Sudhakara Prasad told the court that even family disputes are being turned into political murders. Kannur is the home district of Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and is also considered the strongest bastion of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M). Vijayan assumed office in May last year. The court direction comes just hours before the end of Jana Raksha Yatra in Thiruvananthapuram, led by Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Kerala unit President Kummanem Rajasekheran. The yatra began from Kannur earlier this month and was meant to highlight the killing of BJP/RSS cadres by the CPI-M. BJP national president Amit Shah, who flagged off the yatra from Kannur, arrived in Thiruvananthapuram to lead the yatra and address the public meeting. A dip in income that has been more than compensated by a rise in respect -- thats the balance sheet from the last three months for Joyita Mahi Mondal, Indias first transgender judge. On July 8, the 29-year-old attended office for the first time as a Lok Adalat judge in Islampur of North Dinajpur district in north Bengal. She gave up her earlier profession as a hijra who went around collecting money at ceremonies. I am really happy as now I get respect from society that I was looking for, Mondal told HT. In the court, those who come to seek justice now call me sir, or madam. Earlier, there was nothing but contempt. People almost treated me as an untouchable, and even passed abusive comments. But now people even come to me often requesting me to mediate in family disputes, she said. Mondal was one of a string of transgender persons who have risen to positions of prominence in the government and private sectors in recent years, fighting against widespread social bias and discrimination in education and employment. The change picked up pace after the Supreme Court recognised a third gender in 2014 and asked the government to give the vulnerable community a quota in jobs and colleges. A transgender rights bill is pending before Parliament. Mondal says she has disposed off four cases related to the settlement of bank loans defaults and tenant-landlord disputes. Usually, Lok Adalats have three-judge benches. My fellow judges have always been extremely cooperative and treat me with respect, she added. But the awkward and searching glances have not vanished completely. Sometimes I can feel negative vibes from those whose cases I adjudicate -- strange gaze, or body language. However, I must add that none of them has insulted me. At times, a few are just surprised to see a transgender on the chair of judge, Mondal said. However, she has no complaints. More time is required for the society to change and we have to give it time. Despite the rise in prestige, Mondal has to endure financial difficulties after giving up a steadier source of income that of performing at ceremonies. She now has to depend on the meagre allowance that she gets for every session of Lok Adalat. But the graduate with honours in history from Netaji Nagar College in Kolkata in 2010 is happy to let more money go for the prestige she has received. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday flagged the H-1B visa issue as a strong concern during a meeting with a visiting US Congressional delegation and sought bipartisan support for it. The 9-member US congressional delegation from the house committee on science, space and technology is led by its chairman Lamar Smith, ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Swaraj flagged the issue of H-1B visa as a strong concern and sought bipartisan Congressional support for the same, he said in a series of tweets. EAM @SushmaSwaraj flagged the issue of H1B visa as a strong concern and sought bipartisan Congressional support for the same. pic.twitter.com/g2ZZSyJGX7 Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 17, 2017 During his recent visit to the US, finance minister Arun Jaitley had also raised the issue during his meetings, and had said those coming from India on H-1B visas are high value professionals, who contribute immensely to the US economy. They are not illegal economic immigrants, about whom there is concerns in the US. They come here legally. The US must decide appropriately while taking a decision on its visa policy, he had asserted. The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations. It is the most sought after by Indian IT professionals. The minister also welcomed the strong desire of the delegation to strengthen cooperation in strategic, economic, science and technology, and space sectors. She lauded the positive role of the US Congress in developing India-US strategic relations, Kumar tweeted. A mother milk bank in Udaipur has saved the life of a premature baby girl in Gujarats Ahmedabad by transporting mothers milk for the grossly underweight newborn. My daughter, who was born a month and half before the due date, weighing less than 850 gm at the time of her birth, said Devendra Jain, registrar of Sai Tirupathi University in Udaipur. She did not gain weight as she needed to be breastfed but her mother did not produce any breast milk due to her premature birth, he told HT over phone from Ahmedabad. Born in August, the newborn did not gain weight as required as her mother was unable to breastfeed the baby. Even after two months, my daughter weight was only 1,360 gram and the doctor treating her at Ahmedabad said the baby needed to feed with mothers milk, he said. I knew about the Divya Mother Milk bank in Udaipur so I approached them requesting for mother milk with a recommendation letter of the doctor in Ahmedabad, he said. I am thankful to the state government and the milk bank authorities as they provided milk for my baby. Dr BL Meghwal, in-charge of the Udaipur milk bank said mother milk is very important for the babys mental and physical growth. The bank received a requisition from Jain for mother milk, but sending the milk to Ahmedabad was a big challenge, he said. The government is determined to save the lives of neonates who are deprived of mother milk through the mother milk banks, but we can only provide milk within the state, he said. The requisition for mother milk with a doctors recommendation was forwarded to the state government. Devendra Agarwal, advisor to the state health department for the fresh raw mother milk bank project said: The government on humanitarian grounds immediately gave its approval and the milk was sent to Ahmedabad. Forty-eight units--one unit is 30mlof mother milk for six days has been provided to the baby and the government has given its approval to provide mother milk for six months, he said. The units of mother milk were kept in ice bags and taken to Ahmedabad on October 13 by road within three hours, where it was shifted to a deep freezer to preserve it. Mothers milk can be stored for six hours at room temperature, 24 hours in a refrigerator and in a freezer for 72 hours. Mothers milk can be stored for six months it is frozen at minus 20 degree Celsius. After feeding on mothers milk, my daughters weight has increased to 1,488 gm now, said Jain. There are 11 government-run mother milk banks in Rajasthan, Agarwal said, adding that from September 14 to October 14, a total of 11,721 mothers have donated 24,39,329 ml milk out of which 8,240 neonates in neonatal intensive care unit have been provide with 62,757 units of mother milk. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Rajasthan policemen skipping a guard of honour for visiting Union home minister Rajnath Singh in Jodhpur on Monday will face an inquiry and could face punitive action. Jodhpur police commissioner Ashok Rathore said on Tuesday an inquiry will be conducted to ascertain the role of more than 250 policemen who didnt report for duty the previous day. The cops went on mass leave allegedly supporting protests against a suspected salary cut after the Seventh Pay Commissions recommendations are implemented. Among them were around eight policemen assigned for the Union ministers guard of honour. They attended the morning parade but werent present after that. These men had an array of duties related to law and order and naturally all these were affected, Rathore said. The commissioner said the guard of honour was not affected as cops filled in for their absent colleagues. According to him, almost everyone reported for duty on Tuesday. Policemen in the state were adopting various methods of protest such as shaving their heads and boycotting food served in the official mess. Director general of police Ajit Singh had asked officers to interact with the protesting constables and dispel rumours about a pay cut. He also appealed to the policemen not to believe rumours spread through social media. The house of Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Udaipur unit chief, Motilal Dangi, here was sealed after he allegedly failed to repay Rs 3.5 crore loan he had taken from a Mumbai based finance company. Officials of the finance company sealed Dangis house on Monday. Dangi is said to have an outstanding balance of more than Rs 3.5 crore and the action came when failed to pay the amount on the orders of court. We took possession of his residence after he failed to pay off our loan. We had sent him notices regarding the same, the companys representative told news agencies. Officials of the finance company sealed Dangis house on Monday. (HT PHOTO) A team of officials from the finance company reached Dangis house located at Shiva Park area of the city in the afternoon. The process of sealing the house continued for more than two hours. As the team worked, several senior BJP leaders and activists remained present outside Dangis house. The BJP leaders family was inside the house and some of his supporters broke open the locks on three gates to bring them out. WITH INPUTS FROM AGENCIES A 32-year-old sadhu from Churu district of Rajasthan allegedly chopped off his genitals on Tuesday, after he was accused of having an illegitimate relationship with a woman. According to the police, Santosh Das chopped off his private parts Tuesday morning. Das is an associate of a self-styled godman and lives at his ashram in Taranagar. We got information in the morning that the man has chopped off his private parts, said Ramchandra, station house officer, Taranagar. The police officer said the sadhu was rushed to a local hospital. As his condition started worsening, doctors referred Das to a hospital in Bikaner . The reasons behind his action are unclear and will be known once we record his statement, said the SHO. In an unprecedented move, the authorities of Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), the second of the two Centre-funded film institutes in the country, rusticated 14 female students for refusing to vacate rooms in hostels meant for male students. The authorities have also lodged police complaint against 10 male students, besides throwing them out from the hostel, for forcefully occupying rooms in hostel meant for female students. The authorities took the drastic decision on Monday, following a three-month-long tussle with the students over the implementation of segregation of hostel for male and female students. Read: Internal probe confirms sexual abuse at key Kolkata film institute On Tuesday, agitating students locked the administrative building to protest the expulsion. Police forces were deployed outside the campus. We had to take this ultimate step because no alternative was left. The students were warned repeatedly. We even wrote to their parents, serving ultimatum, but nothing worked, SRFTI director Debapriya Mitra told HT. She could not enter her office on Tuesday as the administrative building was locked by students. Mitra said that the governing council took the decision of hostel segregation in 2009. In 2013, the Union ministry of information and broadcasting sent funds for a new building that was completed by 2015. Read: You can now browse through Satyajit Rays notes on your smartphone This June, when the academic council decided to implement segregation of hostels, about 30 students among a total of about 230 created a ruckus saying hostel was their private place where they would not tolerate the dictum of the authorities. The Film and Television Institution of India, Pune, the other film institute funded by MIB, has implemented segregation of hostels long time ago, Mitra added. Initially, the institute, founded in 1995, had a common hostel, with separate portions designated for male and female students. Read: A tribute to Satyajit Ray Our movement is against a lot of issues related to academics. The authorities, in a bid to divert focus, brought forward the issue of hostel segregation, said Sreecheta Das, one of the rusticated students who is studying direction and is in her final year. The decision to start separate hostels picked up pace since 2016, especially in the wake of a series of complaints of sexual harassment against members of the faculty and a few male students. On Tuesday, students started a sit-in demonstration on the campus. Some of the posters they carried read: We want director, not dictator, No to authoritarian rule and Campus for students. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON At a time when the goods and services tax (GST) and demonetisation are being blamed for a slowdown in business activities, the booking for high-end vehicles for Dhanteras has reached a new high. Markets on a high Around 30 per cent growth is expected in middle and small car segments. The sale of silver is expected to cross 3200 kg while demand of gold is expected to cross 400 kg this year. The sale of home appliances, electronics and mobiles is expected to see around 20 per cent growth this year. Around 30 per cent growth is expected in middle and small car segments. Not only this, an increase is expected in the sale of gold, silver and real estate. Last year, around 2,200 cars were sold and major brands recorded 40 per cent growth in sales. Despite demonetisation and GST, the market leaders are expected to record 30 per cent growth this year. The bigger car segment, that recorded an increase of 30 per cent in sale last year, is expected to record more than 40 per cent growth. Around 5,000 two-wheelers were sold from various outlets of the city last year. This year, the number is expected to be doubled going by the details from various showrooms. About 1700 kg silver and 275 kg gold was sold last year but going by the market mood and advance bookings, the sale of silver is expected to cross 3200 kg while demand of gold is expected to cross 400 kg this year. One reason for market predicting good sales is the increase in the sale limit to Rs 2 lakh without PAN card. Previously, for any sale of over Rs 50,000 the buyers had to share their PAN card number. The sale of home appliances, electronics and mobiles is expected to see around 20 per cent growth this year. Builders are also expecting good booking and advance for real estate projects. A leading builder of the city said on condition of anonymity that around 300 properties of different builders and developers had already been blocked for booking this year for Dhanteras. Dr AP Tewari from the department of economics at Lucknow University said: The first impact of demonetisation and GST has been absorbed. Agriculture and industrial sector also witnessed a slowdown initially but for the last one month the economy is on the path of recovery. One can see that the sale of vehicles is on the rise. Black money has been eliminated and a transformation is taking place. In the next fiscal, the growth rate will cross 7.5 per cent. Recovery in the market has achieved by the government without any fiscal stimulus. The recovery has been staged by the market itself which shows that the Indian economy cannot be shaken by temporary phases of slowdown, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Ahead of the civic polls in the state, the UP Power Corporation Ltd (UPPCL) on Monday announced its decision to enhance electricity supply hours in the small towns which are not tehsil headquarters. The corporation also announced there will be no power cuts during Dhanteras and Diwali. The UPPCL has identified 255 such urban local bodies (town areas, nagar panchayats) to supply 20-24 hours electricity to them every day. Of them, 75 are under the Lucknow discom, 41 under Varanasi discom, 87 under Meerut discom and 52 under Agra discom. We have directed the state load dispatch centre to take action immediately on enhancing supply to 20-24 hours to all the 255 towns bringing them on a par with the tehsil headquarters for the purpose of power supply, UPPCL chairman and principal secretary, energy, Alok Kumar said. As directed by the chief minister, we will also supply round-the-clock electricity throughout the state during Dhanteras and Diwali and all necessary arrangements have been made for the same, he said. At present, these towns are entitled to 18 hours power as per the rural schedule. The decision is said to have been taken with an eye on the local urban body polls in November-December. The civic polls may also delay an announcement on the new tariff by the UP Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC) though the UPPCL wants an early order. Energy minister Shrikant Sharma on Monday indicated the government was not in a hurry with regard to power tariff announcement when UP Rajya Vidyut Upbhokta Parishad president Awadesh Kumar Verma met him. Verma told the minister that the UPPCL was pressuring the regulator to announce the tariff hike before Diwali. Verma said as per rules, the UPERC was entitled to take 120 days to announce the tariff hike after admitting the proposal. The 120 days will complete in January but the UPPCL management wants the tariff order before Diwali, he said. The minister, however, assured Verma of not allowing the UPPCL to pressure the regulator to get the tariff hike by circumventing the procedure. Sources said the government was not in favour of the UPERC announcing the tariff order before the civic polls were over. The government is expected to issue the poll notification on October 25. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has expedited stone carving work at its Ramsewakpuram workshop in Ayodhya for construction of Ram temple. The move comes at a time when the state government is all set for a grand Diwali celebration in Ayodhya on Wednesday. Three truckloads of stones were unloaded at Ramsewakpuram on Saturday and Sunday. The stones were transported from quarries at Bharatpur in Rajasthan. Volunteers deputed by the VHP supervised the transportation of the stone and its carving. Sharad Sharma, a VHP leader, told HT 27 trucks of stone were unloaded at the workshop since September. He admitted that the administration had disrupted the supply of stones to the Ramsewakpuram workshop during the Samajwadi Party regime, slowing down the carving of stones. But, after the formation of the BJP government, the supply of stones resumed. He also said a Dharm Sansad scheduled at Udupi in Karnataka on November 24-26 will discuss construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Prominent saints members of the Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas will deliberate on plans to expedite construction work. The VHP has hired 12 artisans for carving stones and construction of pillars. We will urge the saints to expedite the stone carving work and increase the strength of the craftsmen. The VHP will hire artisans from Rajasthan and Gujarat who are expert stone carvers, Sharma said. A senior VHP leader said the Uttar Pradesh Shia Central Waqf Boards support had given a boost to the demand for a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. Though the matter was in court, efforts were being made to resolve the issue out of court too, he said. Shia Waqf Board chairman Waseem Rizvis decision to offer land for a 100-metre high statue of Lord Ram on the bank of the River Saryu had strengthened hope of both groups joining hands for construction of the temple, he said. Alok Pandey, a primary school teacher at Ayodhya, said senior BJP leader Subramanian Swamys statement that the next Diwali will be celebrated in the newly constructed Ram temple has rejuvenated the saffron brigade. Meanwhile, all eyes are on grand Diwali celebrations on Wednesday when over 171,000 earthen lamps will be lit to celebrate the festival that marks the return of Ram to Ayodhya after an exile of 14 years. Governor Ram Naik and chief minister Yogi Adityanath will be present at the function. The chief minister will participate in ritual coronation of Lord Ram on the bank of the Saryu. He will also launch a Rs 134 crore project for development of the temple town. Caption: Stones unloaded at Ramsewakpuram in Ayodhya for Ram temple construction. HT Photo SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON From biting into their favourite sweets to adding warmth to their homes with lights the high commissioner of Canada and ambassadors of Mexico and Lithuania share with us their favourite Diwali moments. DIWALI, THE INDO-CANADIAN WAY Canadian ambassador Nadir Patel with wife Jennifer Graham and daughter Nylah Patel-Graham. (Raajessh Kashyap/HT Photo) The Canadian high commissioner to India, Nadir Patel and his wife Jennifer Graham will be celebrating their third Diwali in India. For them, the festival became more special after their daughter, Nylahs birth. Our daughter was born here in Delhi, so Id say she is a pure Dilliwallah. Her first Diwali stands out in our minds, says Nadir. She was about four months old (she is two, now), and we were at a close friends home for the Diwali party. She was desperately trying to sleep amid all the noise, he recalls. Its a time to say thank you. Were here as diplomats but weve met a lot of wonderful people in India. Diwali lets us celebrate these bonds - Nadir Patel For the family, celebrations are about gratitude. Its a time to say thank you. Were here as diplomats but weve met a lot of wonderful people in India. Diwali lets us celebrate these bonds, says Nadir. We dont burst firecrackers, one can celebrate without them, he adds. Traditional Indian clothes, too hold favour with the trio. We like to wear Indian clothes at any opportunity that we get. Diwali gives us a chance to wear colourful clothes for parties or while celebrating in office, and we love that! MEXICAN AMBASSADOR AND HER SWEET DIWALI Mexican ambassador Melba Pria. (Raajessh Kashyap/HT Photo) Lights, getting together with friends, and floral rangolis are things that Mexican ambassador to India, Melba Pria enjoys about Diwali. I just love the lights. It is beautiful to see how the lights of the small lamps conquer the darkness be it the darkness of evil conquered by the light of good, or that of ignorance or despair which is overcome by knowledge and hope, she says. And, she also looks forward to the sweets that are a part of the festivities. I do not usually eat sweets, but throughout the year, I wait for Diwali so I can have the traditional Indian sweets with pistachio and a silver foil on it - Melba Pria I do not usually eat sweets, but throughout the year, I wait for Diwali so I can have the traditional Indian sweets with pistachio and a silver foil on it. The first time I ate it, I was so amazed to eat silver foil on a sweet. Mexico is the first producer of silver in the world and silver is important in my country. To see it used in this unique form was astonishing for me, explains Melba. I light up my home with candles. It is a day to decorate the house with floral rangoli, dress in traditional clothes and relax with lots of music, dance, fun and laughter, she says. HOME AWAY FROM HOME, FOR THE LITHUANIAN AMBASSADOR Lithuanian ambassador Laimonas Talat-Kelpsa. (Raajessh Kashyap/HT Photo) For Lithuanian ambassador to India, Laimonas Talat-Kelpsa, Diwali feels a lot like Christmas. In a way, Diwali reminds me of Christmas celebrations. Like Christmas, everyone spends the day with their family members and the scale is the same too. It is exciting to see people so happy, he says. Diwali is the start of celebrations for us. The decorations and lights are not moved till Christmas. Its only a couple of months but it gives us a very special feeling. - Laimonas Talat-Kelpsa The ambassador has celebrated four Diwalis in India till now, and still gets excited about the festival. Diwali is the start of celebrations for us. The decorations and lights are not moved till Christmas. Its only a couple of months but it gives us a very special feeling. It makes us feel like were home and everyone remains happy, he shares. The tradition of having lights is very close to my culture. The region where we come from, the day starts ending very quickly this time of the year. So, the candle lighting is very natural to our families. Doing the same thing here gives us a homely feeling and warms up our heart, he adds. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In the Presence of Another Sky: Sakti Burman, A Retrospective When: 17 Oct to 27 Oct, 11 am to 6 pm, Monday closed. Where: National Gallery of Modern Art Entry: Rs 20 For the next few weeks, the walls of the National Gallery of Modern Art will be filled with the works that are best described as dreamlike. Sakti Burman, now 84, gets a long overdue retrospective titled In the Presence of Another Sky a show that surveys his output across nearly six decades. Floating Figures, 1970 The viewer who does not already know Sakti Burmans work can look forward to being immersed in the magical universe of an artist who is by turns an enchanter, a mythologist, a storyteller, an archaeologist of memory, and an architect of dreams, says art critic Ranjit Hoskote, who has curated the exhibition. The show features nearly 250 works, from his earliest paintings as a 15-year-old in the 1950s to works he created last year. Burmans works bear witness to the versatile, capacious and cosmopolitan imagination of the artist over seven decades. Calcutta-born Burman left for Paris in 1956 to explore the world of art, armed with a nothing more than a degree from the local art college and a few books hed read about Paris. He eked out an existence in maids quarters as he pursued lessons at the LEcole Nationale Superieure des Beaux Arts in Paris and visited Italy. He also spent some time in Bombay. Arlequin Poet, 2017 An artist belongs to the society, his past, present and how he perceives the future, says Burman. The show, he says will remind him of his early days of being a struggling artist, and how the culture and environment of the three cities have affected him. His style reminds viewers of frescoes, they feature techniques such as pointillism, impressionism and marbling, but with a refreshing optimising in almost every work. There are echoes of Pompeii murals, Kalighat paintings, Indian myths and Mughal miniatures. Man and Two Masks, 1972 There will be much to see at the show. Hoskote says he doesnt want to give away all the surprises. But there are paintings, as well as suites of drawings, lithographs, and travel sketchbooks. For me, one of the high points in the retrospective is the exquisite suite of lithographs that Burman produced for a limited edition of Tagores Gitanjali in the writer Andre Gides French translation, he says. We have also drawn into the exhibition, from private collections and the artists own collection in France, an extraordinary number of works from Burmans early period, from the 1960s, which have rarely been viewed in India. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A 15-year-old SSC student, who had gone with his 12 other friends to swim in Vihar Lake, drowned in it on Monday afternoon. The police said Prathamesh Mangesh Gavandi, a resident of Bangurla pada, ventured deep into the lake. At around 12.30pm, when his friends saw him splashing water in an effort to swim to the shore, they thought he was joking. The friends initially thought he was joking but he soon became untraceable. They then raised an alarm and informed locals, said a police officer. The Mulund police and the fire brigade soon reached the spot and they found Prathamesh after looking for him for three hours. The police then registered an accidental death case. We had always warned him against venturing into the water, said Mangesh, the teenagers father. The group had first thought of going to Juhu but later decided to go to Vihar which lies within Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Police said the lake has seen many drowning cases in the past. The local residents had warned the group against venturing in to the water. They had told them to roam around but not swim, said Shripad Kale, senior police inspector, Mulund police station. The police officials also said they will ask the civic body to put up a board asking people to not enter the lake as on an average more than 10 people drown there every year. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The University of Mumbai (MU) has slipped to 181st position in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asia University Rankings 2018, which were released on Monday. Last year the varsity was ranked 145 in the list. The varsity's performance worsened across all parameters used for judging, namely academic reputation, employer reputation and citations per paper. The varsitys score in citations per paper dropped from 81.4 in 2017 rankings to 53.4 this year, indicating a drastic drop in quality of research work. The varsity, in recent years, has taken a beating in domestic as well as international rankings. The rankings don't come as surprise to me. The poor score in citations of varsitys research papers indicates that our papers are not being read, said the head of a varsity department. According to varsity teachers, poor facilities on campus, and vacant teaching and non-teaching positions are primarily responsible for the slide in varsitys performance. Balaji Kendre, in-charge president, University of Mumbai Academic Staff Association (UMASA), said, There supporting staff is not sufficient. Acquiring no-objection certificates (NOCs) for research takes a long time and the varsity is yet to adopt a digital accounting method. The academic culture of the university has taken a hit in last two to three years. The research work is not being promoted. Kendre also said that politicisation of varsity is also affecting its performance. When a vice-chancellor belongs to a particular ideology and promotes the agenda of a political party, it doesnt bode well for the university, he said. Anil Karnik, a professor at chemistry department, said while the MUs overall performance, though not spectacular, is not unsatisfactory. He points out that four of varsitys departments recently found a place in the first departments (ranked under) QS world rankings 2017. He also highlighted that the varsity is among the 14 universities in country to receive funding under Promotion at University Research and Scientific Excellence (PURSE) scheme of central governments department of science and technology. According to Karnik, the lack of resources are at the heart of varsitys many woes. The state, owing to its other commitments, tends to curtail any extra financial burden for higher education. The direct implication of this is the stagnation of number of teaching and non-teaching positions. This results in the university not having a balanced teacher to student ratio, which again affects the ranking. The university has not hiked fees, fearing agitations and backlash from political parties and public, he added. Karnik also said the universitys focus on conducting examination comes at the expense of research activities. Declaration of results of hundreds of examinations involving lakhs of students becomes a prime activity for University administration, where the aspect of much needed infrastructure development, inviting and appointment of top-class academics and researchers on attractive terms and implementation of a global pedagogical structure has remained largely unaddressed, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis pet project, to set up an International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) at Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai, has hit a road block that may prove to be difficult to overcome for the government. The Ministry of Commerce has refused to give the financial Special Economic Zone (SEZ) tag to the project as there is no contiguous parcel of 50 hectares of land at BKC, a mandatory requisite. Without the tag, the IFSC cannot avail tax sops and as such the mandarins in the state secretariat are back to the drawing board to work out how to set up a financial hub with this handicap. The Centres refusal comes even after the state handed over the land required for the bullet train project at BKC, despite concerns about the project coming at the cost of the finance hub. Currently, the Gujarat International Financial Tech City in Ahmedabad is the only IFSC in the country. Fadnavis on Tuesday admitted the Mumbai IFSC project had not got the finance SEZ tag from the Centre owing to land constraints. He, however, said the state government was exploring various options and alternatives to get the IFSC back on track in a similar or different avatar. There is a preliminary proposal to see of we can set up Fintech hub at BKC instead and as such I have set up a committee to draft the states fintech policy, said Fadnavis. Fintech or Financial Technology refers to technological innovations in the financial sector that are changing banking operations and financial services. For instance, mobile payments, retail banking and even crypto currencies like bitcoin come under the ambit of fintech. We are looking to set up an incubation centre for such fintech start-ups and create an eco system for a hub, said an official associated with the project. He, however, said despite the hiccups, the state would go ahead with the master plan for the IFSC by the end of the year. The state has already branded the IFSC as North 51. The master plan for the IFSC, commissioned by the nodal agency, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), includes layout, land reservations, land use and all urban design guidelines for the proposed financial hub. But despite the optimism among state officials, there is inadequate support from the Centre for the Mumbai IFSC project. Earlier, the Centre had sent back the states proposal to consider 20 hectares plot at BKC and the rest in built-up area to meet the requirement of 50 hectares given the land crunch in the city. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Rehan Khan, a key accused in connection with a fake currency racket, had frequently changed his location and identity after the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested three men, including a Congress leader, with counterfeit notes with a face value of Rs8.9 lakh on October 7. The 35-year-old was finally arrested from his relatives home at Shilphata in Kalyan on Monday. The agency seized Rs 9.75 lakh in fake Rs 2,000 and Rs 500 notes from him. Khans name cropped up during the investigation of Haji Alam Shaikh, secretary North Central District Congress Committee, and two others. During the search, DRI recovered fake Rs 2,000 notes which mentioned Childrens Bank of India in place of Reserve Bank of India, with a face value of Rs 6 lakh. Further search resulted in recovery of good quality fake currency of Rs 9.75 lakh. Khan a resident of Goregaon was absconding since the arrest of Shaikh. He had managed to escape twice, said an officer. Khans involvement was further highlighted when a man walked in DRIs office on Friday and handed officers counterfeit notes with a face value of Rs 1.92 lakh. He claimed that he had received these notes from Khan who bought an SUV from him. We have seized a Fortuner which, said the officer. A DRI officer said Khan is also linked with a political party. He has splurged lakhs in bars, kept bodyguards and roamed in the SUV, said the officer. Khan also claimed to be an activist. Investigations also revealed Khans capers during demonetisation. He promised people to exchange old notes. During the actual transaction, he would stage police raids and flee with money, said the officer. Khan told officers that he had received Rs 10 lakh in fake currency from one Imran Shaikh in return of Rs 5 lakh in original currency. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON After a lull on Dussehra, the rush of buyers spread cheer among jewellers on Dhanteras on Tuesday. According to rough estimates. jewellers across Maharashtra raked in Rs450 crore on Tuesday, compared to Rs325 crore last Dhanteras. Traditionally, Dhanteras is a day when new items, including gold, are bought. Jewellers came up with a bonanza of offers, such as free silver and gold coins, discount on making charges, free gifts such as mobile phones and washing machines and lucky draws that include cars and LED TVs to woo customers. While Tanishq offered up to 25% off on making charges for gold jewellery and up to 25% off on diamond jewellery, Palak Jewellers at Parel gave the same amount of silver as the gold purchased for free and mobile phones on purchase of gold worth Rs1 lakh. We wanted to cash in on positive sentiment, said Pankaj Kothari, owner of Palak Jewellers. Those who did not buy during the Dussehra owing to the KYC norms bought on Dhanteras. The offers gave a boost to gold sales across the state, said Kumar Jain, vice-president, Mumbai Jewellers Association. Traditionally, it is considered auspicious to buy gold on four festive days - Gudi Padva, Akshay Tritiya, Dussehra and Dhanteras. India is the largest market for gold trade and the worlds second largest importer. The bullion trade sector has been going through a rough phase ever since the 45-day countrywide strike in March-April 2016 to protest against the levy of excise duty. After jewellers were forced to back off, gold prices breached the Rs 31,000 per 10gm mark, which led to a decline in gold sales. In November last year, demonetisation hit sales once again. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said he would undertake a rejig of his cabinet of ministers post Diwali. The long-pending reshuffle is likely to be carried out ahead of the BJP-led government completing three years in power on October 31. The chief minister indicated former chief minister Narayan Rane, who recently formed his own party, Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha and joined the National Democratic Alliance as an ally, would get accommodated in this reshuffle. The cabinet reshuffle will be carried out soon. Rane is now a NDA ally and we will take an appropriate decision about him, said Fadnavis. Sources close to Fadnavis said Ranes portfolio had been decided by the chief minister and the party top brass. Along with Rane, the cabinet rejig is likely to see some promotions for junior ministers, while some cabinet ministers with more than one portfolio may find their additional departments snipped. There is speculation Rane may be given housing or public works department (PWD) . While the housing department is currently with Prakash Mehta, PWD is with revenue minister Chandrakant Patil. Mehta is facing a Lokayukta probe over allegations of irregularity and wrongdoing in the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) project at Tardeo and this could be an opportune moment to replace him without much ado for Fadnavis. In the upcoming rejig, city BJP chief Ashish Shelar may also get accommodated in the cabinet given his successful stint during the Mumbai civic polls. However, senior BJP leader Eknath Khadse and former revenue minister, who had to step down after allegations of graft, is unlikely to make a comeback in the cabinet. The party top brass is negative about getting Khadse back and since a court case in the matter is pending, a comeback for the former minister seems unlikely, said a BJP minister. Read more: Narayan Rane may get berth in Maharashtra cabinet, reshuffle likely after Diwali SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Clarifying that the state was not targeting those criticizing them on social media, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said notices were sent only in cases where fake accounts were used to send derogatory posts with an intention to disturb social harmony. He said Ahmednagar constable Ramesh Shinde was suspended for campaigning for a political party, which is in violation of service rules, and not over his WhatsApp post against PM Narendra Modi. The accusations surfaced after youngsters, who wrote against the state on social media, got notices from the cybercrime cell of the Mumbai Police. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar recently declared support to these youngsters, who he claimed were being targeted for criticising the BJP, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Modi on social networking sites. The Shiv Sena, too, had criticised the government, with Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray expressing his unhappiness over the suspension of the constable. We have issued notices to 11 people and that too only in cases where fake accounts were used to post derogatory comments against Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, with an aim to create social unrest. After being exposed, such people are trying to put political pressure on us. They will not be spared, Fadnavis said. The CM said people are free to criticise anybody, including him and the government, and the state has not objected to it. Fadnavis said he met Pawar to explain the issue to him and details of the cases will be sent to the NCP leader. He said the constable has written some 200 politically motivated posts in the past two months. He is the brother of a political leader and was actively involved in an election campaign. The state government has evidence against him, Fadnavis said, adding, Allowing police to get involved in poll campaign or criticise the government can lead to law and order issues. The police constable was posted as a bodyguard of Congress MLA and former minister Balasaheb Thorat. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Over one lakh employees of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) began an indefinite strike Tuesday midnight demanding a raise in salary, throwing a spanner in the travel plans thousands of long-distance passengers headed for their hometowns for Diwali. Demanding implementation of the seventh pay commission recommendations, the Maharashtra State ST Kamagar Sanghatana (MSSKS), the recognised labour union of MSRTC, announced the strike after its negotiations with the state government failed. With Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking also threatening to strike work on October 21 (Saturday), commuters are staring at a tough time during festival time. To overcome the disruption caused by the strike, the state government has issued a notification allowing private vehicles including trucks, buses, school buses and other vehicles to ferry passengers. The state-run corporation termed the strike as illegal. Sandeep Shinde, leader of MSSKS, said the state government offered them 10% salary hike in wage agreement. But their members, whose basic pay is only Rs7,000, will get Rs 600 to Rs700 hike in salary, he said. We are demanding salaries under the seventh pay commission for MSRTC employees. Our salary was on par with the state government employees before 1995. But now, a majority of MSRTC employees get only Rs 8,000 to Rs 9,000 a month salary, which is very little, said Shinde, adding that that the union has the support of six other unions. If our demands are met, we are ready to end our strike right now, Shinde said. He said chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and transport minister Diwakar Raote have taken some steps to resolve the issue, but we want a final solution this time. The MSRTC is the largest public transport body in the country with around 18,000 buses and 1.02 lakh employees. Every day, MSRTC buses ferry more than 60 lakh passengers on intra-city and inter-city routes. It also provides bus service in Vasai-Virar, Nalasopara, Nashik and others cities of the state. The BEST workers union, too, has warned of a one-day token strike on October 21, if the undertaking does not meet its bonus demand. The MSRTC strike could hit passengers who have booked tickets to go to their native place for Diwali. If BEST employees issue is not resolved, lakhs of people will be face problems on Bhaubeej, which will be celebrated on Saturday. (With PTI inputs) The Bombay high court (HC) on Tuesday refused to grant anticipatory bail to a police constable booked for rape, after noting that the man, despite being married, had lured the survivor with a false promise of marriage. The applicant is a person who is already married, said Justice AM Badar, while rejecting the plea filed by Sadanand Kamerkar, head constable of Nizampura police station in Bhiwandi. According to the complaint, Kamerkar met the woman when she came to lodge a complaint about the suspected murder of her brother. She alleged the constable frequently visited her house under the guise of investigating her brothers murder and lured her with a false promise of marriage. Prima facie, it appears that consent of the survivor in developing sexual relations was obtained with an assurance that the applicant will marry her, the judge said, adding the fact that he was married proves his promise of marriage was false. The judge said while section 375 of the Indian Penal Code makes it clear that sexual intercourse without consent is rape, section 90 of the Indian Penal Code states consent obtained under misconception of fact is not valid. Obscuring the view and blocking the breeze with German double-glaze, sound-proof windows was against Rajesh Voras natural inclination as a photographer. But theres a difference between noise and torture, said Vora, who decided to replace the windows of his two-bedroom Andheri apartment two years ago to escape the ambient noise, which would often spike to 80dB (the sound level of a blowdryer or kitchen blender). Noise levels up to 70dB are acceptable to the human ear, according to the World Health Organization. We could file complaints with the police or state authorities, but eventually, I chose the well-being and peace of my family and replaced the windows, Vora said. I could afford the three-fold cost of replacing these windows, but not everybody can. Like Vora, more and more people in the city are finding ways to cut down the noise indoors, and thats documented in the growing demand for soundproofing. The demand for soundproofing windows, doors and even ceilings has increased multifold in the past five years, said Pankaj Joshi, executive director, Urban Design Research Institute (UDRI). People are also opting for green buffers, which is having a balcony full of plants to buffer the noise waves. A study conducted at the Madan Mohan Malviya University of Technology in Gorakhpur suggests simple ways to curb indoor noise. Researchers said there is a need to implement speed limits on roads, promote the use of silencers, and use soundproofed cages for generators, among other things. As most of the ambient noise is because of road traffic, the study also suggests that old, noisy vehicles be phased out, no-horn zones be demarcated, noise barriers be provided, and trees be planted wherever feasible. While much is being said and some little is being done to tackle noise generated in public places, indoor noise pollution has received hardly any attention. However, according to health experts, indoor noise, that is the noise around you at home or at your workplace, is getting just as bad and hazardous. Other than outdoor noise that percolates indoors, theres such a thing as indoor noise, which is typically caused by constructions, repairs, music, machines and devices used in our daily living. It is not governed by festivals, though indoor noise does get louder during celebrations, and there is no respite from it through the year. It may not be as annoying as outdoor noise, but indoor noise pollution too can reach significant levels. Dr Sanjay Helale, head of ENT department at Kohinoor hospital, Kurla, said that as houses get smaller in size, ventilation has decreased, which worsens indoor noise pollution. So many electronic devices are used simultaneously in a household. For example, the grinder and TV run together, and that definitely adds to noise pollution, he said, adding that these devices can have noise levels of up to 45dB. In offices, photocopiers, printers, coffee machines, telephones, conversations, air ducts and lighting fixtures all contribute to the din. At homes, its the washing machines, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, air-conditioners, gaming stations, televisions, kitchen blenders and music systems. Doctors advise against using noisy electronic gadgets together. Dr Rajeev Nerurkar, ENT specialist at Bombay hospital, Marine Lines, said music systems, home theatres, pujas and yagnas are all significant contributors to noise pollution. Indoors, with the air-conditioner on, noise reverberates, increasing the magnitude of the sound, he said. Constant indoor noise decreases hearing sensitivity, especially of higher frequency sounds (above 4000 hertz). This particularly affects clarity in hearing, Dr Nerurkar said. While government puts up sound barriers at busy traffic junctions and highways and people install sound-proofing, its also important to keep a conscious check on the noise you generate at home. Curbing noise, experts said, is not the sole responsibility of the government. If the people and the state work together, noise pollution can be dealt with a little more easily. I do not know why Raj Thackeray is so mad at the poaching of six of his corporators in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) by the Shiv Sena. Ahead of the statewide civic polls early this year, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) was in utter danger of decimation as everyone from his party headed towards the Sena and the BJP for they knew the MNS had no future. At the time a Shiv Sainik had laughingly told me while there was a rush in other party offices for tickets, Raj might actually have to set up a desk on the streets and beg passersby to take a free ticket to contest the polls on his partys behalf. That did not happen, however, as both the Sena and the BJP were faced with the problem of plenty and could not accommodate every aspirant. The disappointed ticket-seekers then looked to the MNS but the party did not do too well by comparison to its own performance in previous elections it got half a dozen seats in the BMC, even less in Nashik where the MNS was the ruling party. Everywhere else Raj Thackeray drew a blank. But now if he has been caught napping while the Shiv Sena stole some eggs from under the nesting bird, who is to blame? Many Shiv Sainiks (and these include those in the MNS) believe Raj is not serious about building or sustaining a political party. All he cares for is wealth, cars and a good life. A political party is just a side attraction, one Sainik who was associated with him since his student days told me recently. Actually, his story is tickling pink. As a student leader he had managed to break the NSUIs stranglehold on a university body in the early 1990s and had been sent to meet Raj Thackeray who was then heading the Bharatiya Vidyarthi Sena. Far from felicitating or encouraging this student leader and his team, they were kept waiting for long until Raj emerged in a lungi, rubbing his eyes and brushing his teeth at a few minutes to noon. There was no felicitation or congratulations. He did not even accept the box of pedas we had taken to him by putting our sparse pocket money together, and flung it back at us saying, Hey kay aahe! Within seconds he had dismissed us from the front hall of his home. I felt so insulted. My team was happy to have been in his presence but I knew even then that this was no way to build a student wing, much less a party. Nothing seems to have changed between then and now. For Raj , by all accounts, still parties through the night and continues to be a late riser. But no longer are his supporters happy to just catch a sight of him still in his night clothes at noon. The alarm bells did not ring for Raj even when his close friends warned him that no one was interested in signing up as graduate supporters of his party for polls to the legislative council a couple of years before the 2014 parliamentary and assembly polls and it has been downhill ever since. By contrast, Uddhav Thackeray seems far more serious about keeping his party afloat against the combined onslaught of not just opposition parties but also its ally, the BJP. Had he not poached the MNS corporators, the BJP would have bagged them and netted the all important BMC from the Shiv Sena. The outcome would have been the same for Raj Thackeray though, if not worse, because the BJP is now ruthless about decimating all its opposition and is not likely to accommodate Raj in the manner the Congress had done him or even Bal Thackeray in the past. His utility, if any, is only as a pawn against his cousin but even there I do not believe the BJP, already attempting to shrug off a troublesome ally, would help to resurrect a mortally wounded tiger or give him any teeth. And in the political jungle that Maharashtra is today, Raj should have known how to guard his flock and keep them from flying while he was still sleeping. At the end of the day, it is a question of the survival of the fittest. Whatever the correctness or otherwise of the Shiv Senas poaching exercise, Uddhav Thackeray has proved again he is a survivor. Unlike his esteemed cousin who has learnt no lessons from past follies. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.You should upgrade or use an alternative browser From underworld mafia and terrorists to politicians and corporates, witnesses have played pivotal roles in helping the judiciary bring many who are guilty to justice. But what about them? Little has been done to ensure witnesses are safe and are able to give their testimony before courts without any fear. SUCH CASES One recent example of this was the trial in the kidnap and murder case of diamond merchants 13-year-old son Aditya Ranka. Principal sessions judge SB Agrawal acquitted Adityas cousin Himanshu when the prosecution could not prove their case after a key eyewitness disappeared, said special public prosecutor Kalpana Chavan. The eyewitness had seen Himanshu with his friend, who was convicted in the case, at his pan shop an hour before Aditya was kidnapped. The witness was crucial to tell the court that Himanshu and his friend had met. This would have helped us prove that on the day of the crime the two were together since morning, Chavan said. Had there been a scheme for protection of such crucial witnesses, we could have proved the guilt of the accused. Chavan believes that if the witnesses are not assured of their safety, no one will come forward to depose in trials against gangsters, hardened criminals or cases where their relatives or neighbours are involved. We have lost many cases because crucial witnesses either didnt turn up before the court or were threatened against supporting the prosecutions case, she added. But this is not the only case, where witnesses have failed to come to court or feared for their life. On Friday, special public prosecutor Raja Thakre said the witnesses in the murder case of former mayor of Mira-Bhayader Municipal Corporation Praful Patil have been threatened against deposing in court. Patil was brutally murdered on May 8, 2010. Ajay Pandey and Gulam Rasul Shaikh are accused of shooting and stabbing him after he stepped out for a morning walk. Also, prosecution in journalist J Deys murder case has told the court that the witnesses were threatened. Special public prosecutor Pradeep Gharat has sought protection for the two eyewitnesses in the case. NO SYSTEM IN PLACE Except presenting a witness protection bill before the assembly, the state has not done much to safeguard witnesses. Moreover, the bill, which has a provision for punishment for threatening a witness, has devised a lengthy process to set up a system to protect the witnesses which will ensure that it takes a long time to become a reality. There is no understanding of witness protection scheme or the concept, said Chandra Iyengar, retired IAS officer and former Maharashtra additional chief secretary (home). Lets not talk only about big cases like of terrorism or gang wars, even in common cases where locals are involved, people dont come forward to help the agencies out of fear. If we are looking at controlling crime rate in the city and state, protection of witness is a crucial element. Echoing the same sentiments, retired IPS officer Meeran Borwankar said, One of the reasons why we lack in getting conviction despite a good investigation is that the witnesses do not support the case. Witnesses protection is very crucial to achieve a good conviction rate. Presently with no proper system in place, police officers go out of their way to provide safety to witnesses in crucial cases through informal methods, said Borwankar. But why do it only for big cases. Why not have a system in place for everyone, akin to what is available in foreign countries? said Borwankar. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Acting on the Supreme Courts order banning the sale of crackers in Delhi-NCR, a police team on Monday arrested a 30-year-old man in Phase-II area for illegally storing crackers at his residence to sell them. The crackers had been sourced from Farrukhnagar in Ghaziabad where some fireworks manufacturing units were running prior to the ban. Police said the suspect has been identified as Vijay Kushwaha and 60 kg crackers worth Rs 3.5 lakh were seized from him. Kushwaha allegedly wanted to sell the crackers in his area before Diwali, police said . A patrolling team of Phase-II police station received a tip-off about the crackers and nabbed the man. Station House Officer, Phase-II police station, Shahwez Khan, said,Police are closely monitoring the sale of crackers. We got the information from our sources and raided the area. The crackers were concealed in sacks. Kushwaha wanted to sell them in black. Shawez said Kushwaha tried to run from his house when the police raided but they managed to arrest him. He had identified his customers. There were no documents with him. A case has been registered against Kushwaha under sections of the Explosive Act 1984. On Tuesday, we produced him in court and sent to judicial custody, added Shawez Khan. Read I Ghaziabad: Environmentalists welcome Supreme Courts decision to ban sale of crackers on Diwali After the ban, city magistrate Rajesh Kumar cancelled as many 87 applications seeking permission to sell crackers. The Supreme Court imposed a ban on the sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR ahead of Diwali, in a pre-emptive step to stop a toxic haze from engulfing the region. NCR comprises Delhi and parts of Haryana, UP and Rajasthan. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Gautam Budh Nagar district magistrate, BN Singh, directed the Noida authority and traffic police to take steps on an eight-point agenda to improve on-road traffic management and streamline traffic movement in the district. The move follows an order issued by the Uttar Pradesh chief secretary, Rajiv Kumar, to officials of all districts to streamline traffic movement and ensure smooth passage to motorists. The eight-point directive includes measures such as removing encroachment from roadsides, pavements and footpaths, shifting of poles from roads, painting traffic signs, taking action against illegal parking, repairing damaged central verge, repairing dysfunctional traffic signals and enforcing traffic norms, among others. The chief secretary, at a meeting held on September 14 in Lucknow, had directed the district magistrates in all districts to improve traffic management. The state government issued a letter to all district heads to conduct drives between September 25 and October 24 to enforce the law on roads and public spaces. The district magistrates are also directed to submit action-taken reports to the chief secretary by October 27. I have directed the traffic police and the Noida authority to conduct drives to ensure smooth traffic flow and safe passage to pedestrians. I have asked the two departments to fix responsibility of each zone to a particular official and a police officer. If they fail to enforce rules, action will be taken against them, said Singh. However, there seems to have been little progress in this regard as city roads continue to be congested. Despite the orders from the chief secretary, the Noida authority and the traffic police have failed to improve traffic management. Vendors and shopkeepers have grabbed roadsides and footpaths. Many points such as Mamura Road, Sector 27, Harola Road and Nayabans Road, among others, witness traffic congestion during the peak hour due to encroachments of roadsides but neither the police nor the Noida authority has taken action so far, said Vipin Chauhan, a resident of Sector 49. Read I Monsoon showers lead to traffic snarls in Delhi-NCR; office, school goers suffer Officials of the Noida authority and the traffic police said they are undertaking drives to improve the situation. We have sent the chief secretarys letter to our all work circle officers, for removal of encroachment and repair of traffic signals. Our officials are taking all required steps on the issue, said Sandip Chandra, senior project engineer of the Noida authority. We have issued over 5,000 challans to motorists for violating traffic norms. Multiple teams are deployed in many areas to enforce traffic norms in line with the state government order. We will continue to take stern action to streamline traffic management, said Layak Singh, traffic inspector, Noida. UP industries minister, Satish Mahana, on October 10, also set up a separate committee headed by the Noida authority CEO Alok Tandon to look into congestion related issues but the committee is yet to take any action. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Noida authority has decided to auction 40,000 square metres of commercial land and earn a revenue of around Rs 700 crore in the process. The land is located in Sector 71/51 Metro interchange along the 30km Noida-Greater Noida Metro link, which is likely to be ready by the end of 2017. Earlier, the authority had planned to hand over the land to the Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) for commercial use. The NMRC owns the 30km Noida-Greater Noida Metro project on which around 80-85% work has been completed. We thought if the NMRC will develop the commercial property and rent it out to earn revenue, why should not we do the same? Therefore, the Noida authority has decided to auction this land to a private party and get a revenue of around Rs 700 crore. We can invest this money in other development projects, said Atal Kumar Rai, additional chief executive officer, Noida authority. The authority is at present busy completing formalities related to the land. The private agency that will buy this prime commercial land will also have to develop a skywalk to connect two Metro stations Sector 51 and 71. The 30km Noida-Greater Noida Metro link branches out from the Sector 51 Metro station and has another 6.8km Metro Link going towards Sector 62 (NH24), which branches out from the Sector 71 side. The agency that will be selected to buy this prime land will also have to build the skywalk. We are working out the modalities for the auction. Once the terms are finalized, we will float a tender inviting bids from interested companies. The highest bidder will get the land, Rai said. The Noida authority officials said the commercial land rate prevailing in this area is Rs 1,60,000 per square metre. Many international firms want to buy this land because it is located on the Metro link and will have connectivity with the rest of the Delhi-NCR, Rai said. Officials said iconic furniture retailer IKEA may also participate in the auctioning as its representatives have shown interest in the land. IKEA, a Swedish company founded in 1943, is a global design and lifestyle brand leader with a secretive business model that could transform Indias home decor market with its contemporary product lineup. We cannot say who will buy this land because it will all depend on the highest bid, said another Noida official. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Ahead of Diwali, schools in Noida conducted anti-cracker campaigns in the wake of the Supreme Courts ban on the sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR. Stressing the need to create awareness about the poor air quality in Delhi-NCR and ill-effects of crackers, students from Noida schools presented street plays and conducted awareness sessions. The court has banned the sale of crackers across Delhi-NCR in the wake of alarming pollution levels on Diwali. At Delhi Public School, sector 30, students from the drama society and environment club presented street plays and conducted poster making competitions to raise awareness against crackers. I belong to the environment club. We conducted a campaign in our school where we met students and warned them about the dangers of bursting crackers. On the morning after Diwali, Noida and entire Delhi is engulfed in smoke, which is extremely dangerous, said Shambhavi Srivastava, class 10 student, DPS Noida. Sanchita Sahni, a 10th standard student, DPS, said: I belong to the dramatics society and we collaborated with the environment club to promote the message of preserving nature and air quality. We presented a play where we asked students to say no to crackers. Other schools in the district also held campaigns against crackers. We carried a fortnightly campaign against bursting of fire crackers where students were encouraged to celebrate Diwali with lights and sweets and not crackers. Students were sensitized towards the importance of preserving nature, said Renu Singh, principal, Amity International School, Noida. Read I 40 units sealed in Ghaziabad after SC firecrackers ban Jewar member of legislative assembly Thakur Dhirendra Singh wrote a letter to 400 educational institutions in GB Nagar, asking them to not to burst crackers on Diwali. I made a request to 400 institutions asking the students to not burst crackers.Last year during Diwali, the air quality level deteriorated and people had to suffer from burning sensation in their eyes, said Singh. LocalCircles, a social media network for communities, conducted a poll in Noida to understand how citizens feel about the decision of not being able to burn firecrackers. More than 1,600 citizens voted and 80% citizens said they do not want to burn firecrackers this Diwali. As many as 10% said that they would not burn crackers since they are not available in the market. Five percent said that they already got crackers and will burn them, whereas 5% said they would like to burn crackers and know how to get them in spite of the ban being imposed. Today is Syed Ahmad Khans 200th birth anniversary. Even though he is much-admired for spreading modern education among the Muslim community (he was the founder of Aligarh Muslim University) and relentlessly working for the emancipation of Indians, Khan has been often accused of driving a wedge between Hindus and Muslims. Colonial and communal historians say he sowed the seeds of separatism and that his speeches and writings had a streak of communal insularity. To say the least, this narrative is skewed: Khan never fell prey to religious bigotry and linguistic chauvinism. In fact, he spelt out the contours of living in a plural society to Muslims, who were unaware of this since they had always lived in the country ruled by a Muslim king. Pluralism was dear to him and he instilled a strong sense of inclusiveness in Muslims. Time and again, Khan exhorted them not to insist on traditional practices and religious rituals that do not have Koranic sanction. Take for example the issue of cow sacrifice on Eid-ul-Adha. While cow sacrifice is legally permissible, there has been disquiet among the Hindus since a cow is more than a domestic animal to them. Since he was alive to the religious sensibilities of majority of Indians, Khan asked Muslims to stop the practice of cow slaughter willingly. He felt that such a gesture would lead to respect and harmony. In 1887, Eid-ul-Adha went off peacefully in Meerut, which used to be a riot-prone area as Muslims voluntarily gave up cow sacrifice. The sagacity of the citizens of Meerut evoked a positive response from Khan. Punjabi Akhbar Lahore dated September 24, carried a new story mentioning that Eid-ul-Adha passed off peacefully and no one pitched for cow sacrifice. If it is true, I am extremely glad. We do not want to debate whether Muslims insistence on the sacrifice of the cow is right or not and Hindus determination not to let it happen is unerring or not, but we want to say it clearly that if Muslims climb down a little bit, their action can produce a lasting bond of harmony between the Hindus and the Muslims. The Muslims must part with their trivial right in that treasure of unity is far more significant than the right. The ritual of sacrifice does not rest on cow and goat and sheep can serve the purpose without any deficiency, he wrote in an editorial. This reveals that a communal or parochial approach had no place in Khans scheme of things and for him the Hindu-Muslim axis was a prerequisite for Indias progress. He understood that discord between the two communities would put India in jeopardy and Khan asserted consistently that nothing pleases him more when he sees Muslims and Hindus working in tandem. And that nothing saddens him more than an act that creates bad blood between the two communities. On the issue of cow sacrifice, Khan urged Muslims not to stick to a ritual that has negligible religious significance. In 1897, he wrote: The steady strengthening of social bond, affinity and love pleases us greatlyWe came to know that the Hindus and the Muslims in Bareilly showed their mutual love suitably as the Muslims gave up the sacrifice of cows, goats and sheep were offered instead. The Hindus changed their perception that Muslims immolate cows. They reciprocated it by promising to join them in Moharram mourning and they would also put up drinking water stalls when the religious procession took to the street. It has been our considered opinion for years that casting aside cow sacrifice could pave the way for Hindu-Muslim unity and affinity, and it is hundred time better not to press with the practice of cow sacrifice. We also believe that religious difference cannot move the social relations and similarly differences of opinion on political issues cannot adversely affect the social interaction and cultural bonds. Khans considered opinion on the issue assumes greater significance in an era where the bogey of cow sacrifice is being raised to launch murderous attack on minorities. For peace to prevail, Muslims must listen to what Khan had to say on cow slaughter. Shafey Kidwai is professor of mass communication, Aligarh Muslim University. His book Sir Syed: A life beyond reconciliation will be out soon The views expressed are personal Pune: Hundreds of passengers were left stranded on Tuesday as the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) workers went on an indefinite strike from October 16 midnight. The demands put forth by the workers include implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission and 25 per cent interim hike till the revised salary contract is made. For many passengers this strike by the state transport buses during Diwali has been a nightmare as their plans to travel back home seem to have been shattered. With private buses charging exorbitantly and many running full, passengers have no option but to cancel trips back home or travel by booking special cabs, costing them a fortune. When team Hindustan Times visited bus depots in the city it was found that hundreds of passengers were sitting at the depot since early morning hoping for the strike to end. The worst affected were small children and old people who were waiting for hours at the depot. Many passengers stated that they were not aware of the strike and now have no choice but to cancel their trips. A passenger Prachi Bokil said, My family is in Kolhapur and every Diwali I travel home. I was supposed to leave early today, but due to the strike my plans seem cancelled. She had taken leave from work to travel today, which too seems to have been wasted. Another passenger, Amey Patil, too shared similar views. Me and my wife were to travel to Nashik today, but have been caught in the city due to the strike. We are not even getting a booking with private buses as all are running full today. I have decided to book a cab and travel, but for this I have to unnecessarily shed extra money. Student Rohit Bhat said that he had booked MSRTC bus tickets to travel to Ratnagiri, but had to cancel it after the strike was announced. I am not getting any ticket to travel right now and hence, will wait for a day or two more to see if the strike gets called off, he added. On Monday, after getting a notice from the unions of ST workers, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis met members of the unions, but the meeting did not yield anything. Hanumant Tate, general secretary ST Kamgar Sanghtana said that the strike will continue till the administration intervenes and takes cognizance of the demands. He said MSRTC workers are getting paid Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 a month which is not sufficient considering the rising cost of living. The state currently operates 17,000 buses across the state and has 1.07 lakh MSRTC employees and 65 lakh passenger travelling daily on these buses. The Maharashtra State ST Kamgar Sanghatana (MSSKS), the recognised labour union in the MSRTC, said they have the backing of six other labour unions and would not back down after negotiations with the state government failed. State transport minister Diwakar Raote had appealed to them not to go on strike. The Maharashtra government has allowed private vehicles, including trucks, buses, school buses and other vehicles, to ferry passengers. The state issued this notification after its negotiations with the MSRTC union failed. Speaking about the strike, Transport Minsiter Diwakar Raote said, The industrial court and the labour court both had not allowed this strike by ST workers. MSRTC is not financially in a position to make the 7th pay commission applicable to the workers and this situation is not likely to change in the coming 25 years. Raote further stated that the union members had met Chief Minsiter Devendra Fadnavis on Monday who too had stated that the 7th pay commission cannot be made applicable to state transport workers. The CM had assured them that a committee would be set up to consider the demand of salary hike of the workers but the workers have still gone on strike. With the UT administration issuing only 96 cracker licences to traders this Diwali, strong resentment prevails among those left out. Having bought the stock around two months in advance, most of these traders now face huge losses. Designated sites for cracker sale in Chandigarh Sabzi Mandi ground, Sector 43 Near Ramlila Ground, Sector 46 Open space, in Sector 33-C Adjoining temple, Sector 37-C Dusshera ground, Sector 24 Sabzi Mandi ground, Sector 29 Ram Darbar car bazaar Near Housing Board Chowk, Manimajra Masjid ground, Sector 20 Last year, around 480 traders had got the licences. In fact, more than 300 licences were issued on Thursday as well, before being scrapped owing to the Punjab and Haryana high courts order on restricting sale and bursting of crackers. The fresh licences were issued on Monday through draw of lots under the supervision of UT deputy commissioner (DC) Ajit Balaji Joshi at his office in Sector 17. The licences have been issued for only three days October 17 to 19 and the number of designated sites for sale of crackers has also been reduced from 17 to nine. Diwali fireworks only between 6.30-9.30pm in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh: HC To mark their protest, all traders who attended the Monday draw chose to sit on the floor instead of chairs arranged there. Surprisingly, none of the members of the governing body of the cracker traders association got a licence. More than 600 traders had applied for the licence this year. However, the high court (HC) restricted the issuing of licences to only 20% of those given last year. Bought stock already Most of the traders had already bought the stock, hoping that they will get the licences, said Devinder Gupta, president of the cracker dealers association. Designated sites for cracker sale in Mohali Dussehra Ground, Phase 8 Bassi Cinema, near Phase-2 market Gupta said those left out will have to try and sell their stock to those with the licence at lower prices. We will be facing huge losses, but we are helpless, he said. We are witnessing such a scenario for the first time, said the associations general secretary, Chirag Aggarwal. First, the UT administration harassed us over the allocation of sites. Now, we have been provided nine sites, but the number of licences has been slashed drastically. Ninety-six traders could have operated from just three to four sites. Poor response in part of Mohali Meanwhile, the Mohali administration issued 40 licences as compared to 218 last year for the sale of crackers in the district . Designated sites for cracker sale in Panchkula Hafed ground As many as 311 applications were received. In Mohali city, 14 licences were issued against 132 applications. Even as four licences were to be issued in Lalru, only one application was received. In Nayagaon, no one applied for the licence. In all, the administration has designated 10 places in the district for the sale of crackers. Outside Mohali city, these will be set up at government senior secondary schools in Banur, Dera Bassi and Lalru besides the Dussehra ground in Baltana, Zirakpur. In Panchkula, all 13 traders who got the licence on Monday will set up their shop at Hafed ground in Sector 5. In all, 130 applications were received. Up to 2-yr jail for illegal sale Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) issued by UT district magistrate Ajit Balaji Joshi on Sunday following the HCs order also covers illegal sale of crackers. The orders will remain in effect till October 26. Violating Section 144 of the CrPC can lead to registration of a case under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). If convicted, the violator may be imprisoned for up to two years along with fine of 1,000. Additional DC Rajiv Gupta said if any trader is found selling crackers illegally, action will be taken under Section 188 of the IPC. All three sub-divisional magistrates will be provided the list of 96 license holders. We have formed one more team to check subletting of licences, he said. Meanwhile, during the draw of lots in Mohali, deputy commissioner Gurpreet Sapra warned the traders against selling banned crackers. She said minors will not be allowed to sell crackers. The dealers were also given instructions on arrangements for fire safety. The weekend after Diwali, flying to anywhere in India will be more expensive than taking a flight to Dubai. With long-distance trains plying from the Chandigarh railway station reserved till October 26, taking a flight is the only option for people planning to travel in the coming days. Figure this: On Saturday (October 21), two days after Diwali, the airfare between Chandigarh and Mumbai is between Rs 15,000 and Rs 17,800. While the direct Indigo flight costs Rs 16,751, Go Airs one-way fare is Rs 17,806. The normal airfare is Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000. However, on the same day and even till October 23, the Chandigarh-Dubai flight will cost between Rs 11,000 and Rs 14,000. Officials of private airlines claimed there is no sudden rise in the fare, but it depends on demand and supply and fare buckets. Those booking well in advance get the advantage of lower fares. Those booking now will have to opt for the higher fare bucket and shell out more, said a senior Jet Airways official, seeking anonymity. All those who get their tickets booked a month in advance are the lucky ones. Now, people will have to pay four times the normal fare. Similarly, the Chandigarh-Jaipur flight ticket, which normally costs Rs 3,000-Rs3,500, is available for more than Rs10,000 after Diwali. The Chandigarh-Srinagar air fare will also go up to Rs 12,550 from Rs 3,000, while flying to Bengaluru will cost up to Rs 20,000 instead of Rs 3,500-Rs4,500 from October 21 to 23. All those who get their tickets booked a month in advance are the lucky ones. Now, people will have to pay four times the normal fare, said a city-based travel agent. There is not a single seat available in major long-distance trains including Unchahar Express, Chandigarh-Lucknow Express, Mumbai train, Goa Sampark Kranti and Dibrugarh Express till October 25. The waiting list has crossed the 500 mark in most of these trains. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The mere mention of Diwali brings to mind crackers, sweets, celebrations, and smiles. But for many singed by mishaps big or small, it sends a shudder down the spine. For them, the festival of lights brings with it grave memories of loss or lifelong impairment, a stark reminder of how a celebration gone wrong can change a life forever. Safety tips by the Fire and Security Association of India In case of eye injury, splash tap water on your eyes for 5-10 minutes. Use medicines for the eyes only after consulting a doctor In case of skin burn, run cold (but not ice-cold) water over the burnt area, or soak it in water. Do not apply paste, cream, ointment or oil on the burnt area Asthma patients should wear a mask while bursting crackers or stay indoors Here are a few cautionary tales. Loss of vision and self-esteem Daman Aulakh, a 61-year-old resident of Mullanpur, lost her right eyes vision when a firecracker hit her. Wife of an army officer who was posted in Poonch on field duty, Aulakh was celebrating Diwali with her two children in Dalhousie when the mishap took place. Not a big fan of crackers even then, she had instructed the servant to burst the crackers in a way that her two children were protected. Little did she know, that the whistle-sound cracker would come for her eye. With little medical facilities in the hill station, Aulakh was rushed to Amritsar the same night only to discover that she could no longer see from her right eye. Putting up a brave front in front of her children and parents, she never cried in front of them even though it meant yelling all by herself. Ever since, Diwali has never been the same for her. I didnt look directly into the mirror for two years, thats the impact it had on me, Aulakh told HT. It was her husband, Brigadier Navaljeet Singh Aulakh, who helped her regain her confidence inch by inch. If you must burn crackers, keep these precautions in mind: Always keep a distance from the fireworks when they are being lit up. Use long sticks to fire rockets or crackers Keep buckets of water handy. Keep a first-aid box ready with cotton, Dettol, anti-allergic tablets, Soframycin, band-aids, Paracetamol, et al Be sensitive to the needs of senior citizens, people in mourning, people with disabilities, and animals in your area Dont burst crackers on roads or crowded areas. Dont ignite fireworks in a container Dont leave your children alone while they are bursting crackers For someone who was admired for her beauty, wearing goggles all the time wasnt the most pleasant feeling until her husband took her to Philadelphia for a cosmetic surgery. Not only that, I didnt drive for five years after the incidentit leaves you in jitters, she recalls. Grateful that the infection hadnt travelled to her other eye, gradually she learnt to rebuild her life, and began to step out more regularly. Being an army officers wife, there were so many social gatherings that I had stopped going to till my friends and family came to my rescue and encouraged me to embrace my impairment, and just be natural, she recounts. Its been many years now, but Aulakh hasnt celebrated Diwali ever since. All that she does is light candles, nothing less, nothing more. Urging the government to ban crackers and stop the business of fireworks, she picks up the newspaper with a heavy heart a day after the festival every year. I dont want to ready any more stories of loss as only someone who has undergone it can feel for others, she says. SOS in Chandigarh: Keep the following phone numbers handy Chief fire officer: 0172-5021423 Fire stations: 0172-2702333, 2703507 (Sector 17); 2747820 (Sector 11); 2690523 (Sector 38); 2648610 (Sector 32); 2734656 (Manimajra); 2642111 (Ram Darbar); and 0172-2655816 (Industrial Area-1) GMSH, Sector 16: 102; 0172-2768201; GMCH-32: 0172-2601023/24; PGIMER advanced eye centre: 2755252; Emergency: 98140-14464; advanced trauma centre: 2755454 Scarred forever A cracker that burst way back in 2003, changed the way Kirpal Singh, an inspector with Chandigarh police and his family, celebrate Diwali. It was on the Diwali night in 2003 that his seven-year-old son Armaan injured his eyes when a cracker burst in his face. The family, which battled long and hard to help their child recover, has never been able to forget the incident. Armaan had lit up a cracker and when it did not go off, just like any curious child, he went again to re-ignite it. He was bending on it when it burst in his face. He sustained burns on the eyelids, eyelashes and the eyes resulting in serious damage to vital tissues of the eyes. SOS in Mohali: Keep the following phone numbers handy Fire emergency: 0172-2225902; civil hospital, Phase 6: 0172-2271295 Fourteen years on, Armaan is pursuing B Tech now and will turn 21 next month. Though the youngster has recovered, the scars of the accident remain, and the family no longer celebrates Diwali the way it did in the past. We have not purchased crackers ever since the accident. All we buy is a phuljhari, but the bombs are serious no, no, shared Kirpal Singh. He adds, Armaan too does not burst crackers. Instead of wasting money on crackers, its better to spread smiles by sharing sweets with the poor or by helping them out, says Inspector Kirpal. Once burnt, forever shy For the last 25 years, Narinder Singh, 40, of Sector 66, Mohali, has stopped bursting crackers. He was 15 when his hand got burnt during Diwali celebration way back in 1992. I had an anaar in my hand and was trying to ignite it when it burst in my hand. The skin came off my thumb and the hand was burnt badly, recounts Narinder Singh, who now trades in plywood. SOS in Panchkula: Keep the following phone numbers handy Fire emergency: 0172-2560926, 101; general hospital: 108, 0172-2567228 He was rushed to hospital and administered first aid. Though the injury healed over time, Narinder Singh has never cared to touch a cracker again. With time, the pain has gone, and the memories have become dim, but I still cant bring myself to burst a cracker. A father of two, Narinder is also extra cautious when his children are playing with crackers. Dhyan to rakhna padta hai na (you have to keep a watch). I make sure that I am around whenever they are bursting crackers. Their safety is my priority, he adds. Children have their own way of celebrating Diwali, and I cannot let one accident of my life ruin their memories of the festival of lights, Narinder adds with a smile. (With inputs from Arshdeep Arshi) A mother-son duo who had sheltered Honeypreet, the adopted daughter of jailed head of Dera Sacha Sauda Gurmeet Ram Rahim, for arrested by the Panchkula police on Monday from Jangirana village near Bathinda for sheltering in their home for at least one week. It was from here that Honeypreet went to Delhi to file anticipatory bail in the Delhi high court. Accused Saranjit Kaur and her son Gurmeet Singh were arrested in a raid along with under Sections 345 (wrongful confinement of the person wanted by police) and 216 (harbouring offender whose arrest has been ordered) of IPC. They duo had gone underground when the police raided their home last week along with Honeypreet, who is now in judicial custody since Friday. Honeypreet was arrested on October 3 for inciting violence in Panchkula on August 25 after conviction of Ram Rahim by the CBI court here. Panchkula police commissioner AS Chawla said the mother-son duo were arrested after the police had enough evidence to prove that Honeypreet stayed in their house Sources said Honeypreet was taken to Saranjits home by her aide Sukhdeep Kaur, who was arrested along with Honeypreet. 8 more under scanner Sources said there are at least 8-9 other people who are under scanner. They include those who sheltered her in Gursar Modia in Rajasthans Ganganagar district where she remained hidden for 17 days, after leaving the dera on August 27, two days after Panchkula violence. The police have identified suspects in another Bathinda village, Thandewala, which was Honeypreets last location before she was arrested. The police are also looking for those who sheltered her in Muksatsar district too. Babas close aide held in Rajasthan Sources also told HT that they have also arrested Gopal Bansal, a resident of Rajasthans Hanumangarh district for inciting violence in Panchkula. He was dera chiefs point person in Rajasthan and also member of deras 45-member committee. Another Chandigarh cop held The police on Monday also arrested head constable Labh Singh of the Chandigarh police for his suspected involvement in the escape bid of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Ram Rahim Singh on August 25 after his conviction in two rape cases by the CBI court in Panchkula. Police sources said the accused was leaking information to the dera officials about the police positions and helped them identify various points of possible exit routes. Labh singh was working in the intelligence department of the Chandigarh police and was seen standing outside the CBI court on August 25 before the violence broke out in Panchkula. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh urged Union home minister Rajnath Singh to provide a special one-time infrastructure development package for improving the states border areas. Rajnath was here to inaugurate the newly constructed viewers gallery at the Indo-Pakistan joint check post at Hussainiwala. The new gallery will be able to accommodate over 5,000 visitors. Built at the cost of Rs 16.39 crore, the foundation stone of this gallery was laid down by then home minister, P Chidambaram, on October 22, 2010. Everyday, a large number of people come to witness the retreat drill here where the BSF sentinels and Pakistani Rangers exchange hostile gestures. Amarinder, who was present at the inauguration ceremony, urged the Union government to acquire land beyond the border fence as it could never be optimally used for agriculture due to security restrictions. Till the land is not acquired, the farmers should be compensated for loss, he added. The CM also requested the home minister to consider establishment of a railway linked inland container depot near the Attari railway station to boost cross-border trade. The CM also announced a grant of 2 lakh for providing quality food to the BSF personnel. Earlier, Rajnath and Amarinder paid floral tributes at the samadhi of freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev. Later, they drove to the joint check post where they addressed BSF jawans and visited the BSF museum where the original pistol belonging to Bhagat Singh which was used in killing of British police officer John P Saunders has been kept. Even as chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh said no case was being registered against farmers for burning crop residue, the police on Sunday booked six farmers for burning paddy stubble and violating the orders of the district administration. With 75% of the 19.7 million tonne of paddy straw generated in Punjab every year, the problem has assumed dangerous proportions. In the first case in the state, the police booked Dev Singh, Gurcharan Singh, Sukha Singh, Gurcharan, Mitthu Singh and Lal Singh of Bakhora Kalan village near Moonak in Sangrur district for setting paddy strew on fire on October 9. The stubble burning was detected through satellite images and the Lehra sub-divisional magistrate sent a three-member team, including a patwari and block development officer at Bakhora village. But farmers allegedly detained the team and continued burning the crop residue. The case was registered on the statement of patwari Balvir Singh at the Moonak police station. The farmers were collectively burning paddy residue in Devs fields and detained administration team. No arrest has been made so far, investigating officer Sukhwinder Singh said. The farmers have been booked under Section 341 (punishment for wrongful restraint), 117 (abetting commission of offence by the public or by more than 10 persons) 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions) 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) and 120B (conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code. Farmers, however, say the technologies available for the management of stubble are not affordable. Farmers will burn stubble and we will protest against the FIR, said Janak Singh, district general secretary of the BKU (Ugrahan). Deputy commissioner APS Virk said that action has been taken as per law. We sympathise with farmers, but it is the question of law and order. There is a need to make farmers aware about environment issues. Virk said. With 75% of the 19.7 million tonne of paddy straw generated in Punjab every year, the problem has assumed dangerous proportions, leading to loss of organic material for soil, degradation of air quality and high SPM level. AAP supports farmers, seek aid BATHINDA: Coming in support of farmers on stubble burning, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday asked the state government to provide aid to tillers for managing paddy straw. Talwandi Sabo MLA Baljidner Kaur, Rupinder Kaur Ruby from Bathinda (rural) and Jagdev Singh Kamalu from Maur submitted a memorandum to the Bathinda deputy commissioner Diprava Lakra saying that the state government should provide 6,000 per acre to farmers for handling straw without burning it. Meanwhile, two AAP MLAs Nazar Singh Manshahia (Mansa) and Budh Ram (Budhalada) blamed the state government for its failure to control pollution. They also asked the Punjab government to implement the guidelines of National Green Tribunal wherein it has instructed the government to assist farmers in utilising the crop residue. Actor Sonali Kulkarni has a tendency to celebrate festivals in her own way. While she celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi in an eco-friendly manner, Diwali is going to be quieter and calmer for her. Sonali has been living out of her suitcase of late, as she was busy shooting for her forthcoming film, and wasnt able to spend time with her family. So, the Dil Chahta Hai (2001) actor has whisked her family off to Hong Kong to celebrate the festival and take a much-needed break. Sonali and her husband, Nachiket, have decided to take their daughter Kaveri to Hong Kong Disneyland for an entire week. The actor, who has already left India, says, It is a family holiday. Nachiket and I had a very busy quarter and so did our daughter Kaveri. All of us have holidays [this week], so we have combined them to spend time with family. None of us are very fond of crackers and we really like a pollution-free Diwali. Sonali adds that the trip to Disneyland is also a gift for her daughter. This is also Kaveris birthday gift, as her birthday is also in October. She is very fond of Disney characters and Nachiket thought that it would be really nice to gift her a holiday when she is be ready for it. We are very happy to enjoy all the wonderful rides here, and she can meet all the characters she knows, she says. ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktop In the next 100 years, there may be no internet, technology, satellite communication and electric grids. And it may not be because of humans, according to a study. A powerful solar flare in the next century may wipe out all technology on Earth, according to a study published in The Astrophysical Journal this month. The sun is usually thought of as a friend and the source of life, but it could also be the opposite, Avi Loeb, Harvard University professor who authored the research, told NewScientist. Loeb and Manasvi Lingam, a Harvard researcher, studied data on other Sun-like stars to see how frequently superflares occur and what their impact is. They found that extreme flares are likely to occur on stars every 20 million years. Solar flare are defined by NASA as powerful bursts of radiation from the Sun. Although harmful radiation cannot pass through Earths atmosphere, when intense, they can disturb the atmosphere in the layer where GPS and communication signals travel. The worst of flares could even destroy the ozone layer, cause DNA mutations and disrupt ecosystems, said NewScientist. ... the risk posed by superflares has not been sufficiently appreciated and that humanity might potentially witness a superflare event in the next 10 to the power 3 years, leading to devastating economic and technological losses, the study read. A solar storm in 1859 had resulted in breakdown of telegraph systems across the West, in the first such recorded event. A flare like that today could shut down all the power grids, all the computers, all the cooling systems on nuclear reactors. A lot of things could go bad, said Loeb, adding: Back then, there was not very much technology so the damage was not very significant but if it happened in the modern world, the damage could be trillions of dollars. There may be a solution Loeb and Yale Universitys Greg Laughlin said a huge loop of conductive wire between the Earth and the Sun that would act as a magnetic shield could be the solution. But it could cost more than $100 billion and that may not be the best way to spend money, conceded Laughlin. But thinking more about how solar superflares work and getting a sense of how our sun fits in with its peers would be a very valuable effort. If you smoke and are planning a trip to Thailand, you may want to think twice before lighting up in public. People who flout a smoking ban on 20 of Thailands most famous tourist beaches will face a $3,000 fine or up to a year in prison, Thai authorities have said. The ban, which comes into force in November, follows a clean-up of nearly 1,40,000 cigarette butts from a 2.5 kilometre (1.5 mile) stretch of the famed Patong beach in Phuket island province. Its introduction coincides with Thailands peak tourist season and will be enforced in visitor hotspots including Krabi, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Phuket and Phang Nga. These beaches are among the most beautiful in Southeast Asia, and the aim is to keep them that way, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said in a statement on Monday. The ban follows a clean-up of nearly 1,40,000 cigarette butts from a 2.5 kilometre (1.5 mile) stretch of the famed Patong beach in Phuket island province. (Shutterstock) Smokers will have to use designated areas with proper waste disposal for cigarette butts, he added. Those caught lighting up on the beach could face jail or a 100,000 baht ($3,000) fine, according to TAT. The edict is the latest effort to rein in Thailands free-wheeling tourism industry. The sector is a crucial pillar of Thailands economy, catering to more than 30 million travellers per year. But the huge numbers of arrivals have also threatened to spoil some of the kingdoms idyllic beaches, with litter and unchecked development damaging local ecosystems. Thailand is also trying to crack down on lax safety standards that riddle the tourism industry, after waves of complaints that visitors are overcharged or not adequately protected on boats and jet-skis. In a scathing attack on Bigg Boss 11 hosted by Salman Khan, Bollywood actor Arshad Warsi has called it downmarket and said that the people inside the house this season are tacky. People on the show, I hear, are tacky. I havent seen this season, but Ive heard about it. The channel is attempting to boost the ratings by showcasing the things that sell. And thus, morality is taking a back seat, Arshad told Mid Day in an interview. However, he further explained the need to make such shows, blaming it all on the audience. People enjoy watching crass, and the channel is merely serving it. The content showcased on Indian television is regressive. The day people change, their taste [in content], the narrative of the shows will also change. If the world wants to see sensible people in the house, the channel will oblige. The audience wants to see dramatic people, those who fight, hit and abuse, he told the tabloid. Interestingly, the first week of October saw Amitabh Bachchans quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati topping the charts for BARC ratings. That renders Arshads argument void. Talking about the original concept of Bigg Boss, the Munnabhai star said, The concept back then was to understand the psyche of people and notice the developments that occur when they are made to reside in a house, isolated from the world. No one wanted to cause any trouble. There was no nudity or violence demanded in the clause. Explaining how things have spiralled from then, he explained, When you meet new individuals, you can be cordial for a week. Then, you discover their traits. When good behaviour wears out, the dynamics change. It takes time for people to reach that stage. But, now the channel wants immediate TRP success, so they are consciously sending nutcases into the house. The ongoing season of Bigg Boss started with 18 contestants, including celebs and commoners. Shilpa Shinde, Hina Khan, Jyoti Kumari, Sapna Choudhary, Hiten Tejwani, Puneesh Sharma, Sabyasachi Satpathy, Mehjabi Siddiqui, Luv Tyagi, Vikas Gupta, Benafsha Soonawalla, Arshi Khan, Bandgi Kalra and Akash Anil Dadlani are currently inside the house. Follow @htshowbiz for more Since television celebrities shoot for daily soaps, getting a day off is a luxury they can rarely afford, but when they do, on occasions such as Diwali, they ensure that they make the most of it. While some are all set to go to on a health retreat, some are planning to throw parties for close friends. Here are five of your favourite TV celebs, spilling the beans on how they plan to ring in Diwali this year. Ssharad Malhotraa Its a festival where we, TV actors, get a day off, which is a luxury when you are doing a daily soap! Usually, we dont get holidays. I have bought a new house, and if all goes well, I will be celebrating the festival at my new place. Though I loved bursting crackers earlier, since the past two years, its been a conscious decision to not do it. Also, my friends have been pestering me to give them a party, as my show has been doing well, and I have bagged a few awards too. I will be inviting them home for dinner. Saumya Tandon I am going to get two days leave, but I really hope it becomes three days, because then I will move away from the hustle-bustle of the city to a health retreat, and do my prayers in my heart! Also, I have never been a cracker-loving person. I had a female Labrador when I was a child; whenever she would hear the loud noise of the crackers on Diwali, her heartbeat would shoot high. A vet has told me that animals can even get a heart attack, because they hear sounds ten times louder than us. I remember spending the night holding my dog close to me, comforting her. Rithvik Dhanjani I have come to believe that people should stay away from crackers as they are not only unsafe but are also causing a lot of pollution. My most memorable Diwali moment was in my childhood. I remember, in our lane, we had a bua ji we were irritated with. She lived in a white house. One day, a cow had pooped outside her house; we put a rasi bomb on top of the gobar. The result was gobar all over her white house, her entire house was in cow dung. She got to know who it was. Though we had a Happy Diwali, we had to clean the cow dung the next day. So this year, guys, please enjoy a cracker-less Diwali! Since the festival of Diwali is all about family and friends, this year, too, I will be celebrating Diwali with my family and close friends, here at home in Mumbai! Divyanka Tripathi Dahiya I have already begun my packing and am deciding what clothes to wear! Since we all (my family) rarely get to meet, this is one time where we all will eat together, pray, spend quality time and enjoy ourselves! My mom-in-law cooks really well, so I am feeling privileged because I will be fed really good food! So this is also going to be some good saas-bahu quality time for me. Bharti Singh This years Diwali is, of course, going to be extra-special for me, since its my last Diwali at my maayka (mothers home) before I get married. My next Diwali will be at my husbands place. I am feeling a bit low, but thats how it is with every girl before her wedding. But I am going to celebrate it khulke with my family. Follow @htshowbiz for more Bangladesh has announced plans to build a refugee camp that could accommodate around 800,000 Rohingya Muslims pouring over the border from Myanmar. The camp would be the largest in the world and has raised concerns about the risks of concentrating vulnerable people, such as the spread of disease. Around 550,000 Rohingya have fled communal bloodshed in Myanmar since the latest violence began in August 25. While some have joined the roughly 33,000 fellow Rohingya living in the official camps of Kutupalong and Nayapara since the 1990s, most have set up alongside hundreds of thousands more already living in makeshift camps and villages outside those settlements. The UNs refugee agency estimates there are an unprecedented 65.5 million refugees in the world today, split between urban centres or informal settlements, and more formal camps. Here are some of the largest of these camps, based on UN figures. Bidibidi, Uganda: 285,000 This vast settlement in far northern Uganda has sprung up over the past year as people flood out of South Sudan, fleeing civil war and severe food shortages. A village in the Yumbe district on the South Sudan border, Bidibidi became a refugee settlement in August 2016 and now hosts nearly 285,000 people, according to figures from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Uganda hosts more than half of the nearly two million South Sudanese who have fled their country since war erupted in 2013. The Adjumani district in the same border area of Uganda contains many further camps and settlements where there are together about 233,000 more South Sudanese. Dadaab, Kenya: 239,500 The sprawling Dadaab complex 100 kilometres (60 miles) from Kenyas border with Somalia has housed Somali refugees for around 26 years. The majority fled the outbreak of civil war in Somalia 1991 and many never returned, going on to have children and grandchildren. Dadaab is made up of four camps, some of which have come to resemble towns, but is considered a single area. There were about 239,500 people in Dadaab at the end of September, according to UN figures. The population peaked at around 485,000 in 2012 following a new influx after famine in Somalia. A voluntary repatriation programme is helping some to return. The Kenyan government decided last year to close Dadaab, about 450 kilometres northeast of the capital Nairobi, saying it was a training ground for Shabaab Islamist militants from Somalia. The decision was overturned by Kenyas High Court on the grounds that it violated the countrys international obligations and amounted to the persecution of refugees. Kakuma, Kenya: 185,000 This camp on the outskirts of the town of the same name in northwestern Kenya was established in 1992 following the arrival of thousands of people fleeing from southern Sudan during the 1983-2005 war. Many were young boys who risked being forced into combat. The camp also took in some of the hundreds of thousands of Ethiopians who fled around the fall of the military government in 1991. About half of the refugees there today are from South Sudan and a quarter from Somalia, with those from Ethiopia down to under four percent. Nyarugusu, Tanzania: 139,630 Just 37 kilometres from the border with Burundi, this camp was opened in November 1996 to host people fleeing conflict in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo. Tens of thousands of Burundians arrived in 2015 when their country plunged into crisis after President Pierre Nkurunziza sought a fiercely contested third term. Burundians now account for around 47 percent of the camps population. Tanzania hosts around 60 percent of the 410,000 Burundians who are refugees. Zataari, Jordan: 80,140 About 5.2 million Syrians have left their country since conflict erupted in 2011, the largest migration in the world today. Most are in neighbouring countries, where only nine percent are in camps, the UN says. About 20 percent of those in Jordan are in camps, the largest of which is Zataari with about 80,140 people, according to figures for August. Some 80 kilometres north of the capital Amman, Zataari was established in 2012 and evolved from a collection of tents into an urban settlement. There are also more than 3.2 million Syrians in Turkey, which hosts the largest number of refugees in the world, the UN says. However only about 10 percent are in camps, the largest being the Akcakale tent camp with around 26,400 people. The government of Lebanon estimates it hosts 1.5 million Syrians. Most of them live informal tented settlements in the Bekaa Valley. The Taliban unleashed a wave of attacks across Afghanistan on Tuesday, targeting police compounds and government facilities with suicide bombers in the countrys south, east and west, and killing at least 74 people, officials said. Among those killed in one of the attacks was a provincial police chief. Scores were also wounded, both policemen and civilians. According to Afghanistans deputy interior minister, Murad Ali Murad, the days onslaught was biggest terrorist attack this year. Murad told a press conference in Kabul that in Tuesdays attacks in Ghazni and Paktia provinces, the insurgents killed 71 people. In southern Paktia province, 41 people 21 policemen and 20 civilians were killed when the Taliban targeted a police compound in the provincial capital of Gardez with two suicide car bombs. Among the wounded were 48 policemen and 110 civilians. The provincial police chief, Toryalai Abdyani, was killed in the Paktia attack, Murad confirmed. The Ministry of Interior said in a statement earlier on Tuesday that after the two cars blew up in Gardez, five attackers with suicide belts tried to storm the compound but that Afghan security forces killed all five terrorist. According to the Health Ministry spokesman, Waheed Majroo, the Gardez city hospital reported receiving at least 130 wounded in the attack. Hamza Aqmhal, a student at the Paktia University, told The Associated Press that he heard a very powerful blast that shattered glass and broke all the windows at the building he was in. The university is about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from the training academy, said Aqmhal, who was slightly injured by the glass. A lawmaker from Paktia, Mujeeb Rahman Chamkni, said that along with the provincial chief of police, several of his staff were also killed. Most of the casualties were civilians who had come to the center, which also serves a government passport department, Chamkni said. In southern Ghazni province, the insurgents stormed a security compound in Andar district, using a suicide car and killing 25 policemen and five civilians, Murad said. At least 15 people were wounded, including 10 policemen, he added. Despite the staggering numbers, Murad said Afghan forces are confident in their readiness to fight terrorists and eliminate them from Afghanistan. Arif Noori, spokesman for the provincial governor in Ghazni, said the Taliban attack there lasted nine hours. By the time the attackers were repelled, there were 13 bodies of Taliban fighters on the ground, Noori added. And in western Farah province, police chief Abdul Maruf Fulad says the Taliban attacked a government compound in Shibkho district, killing three policemen. The Taliban claimed responsibility for all three attacks on Tuesday. Murad, the deputy interior minister, said the Taliban have suffered heavy defeats over the past six months at the hands of Afghan forces and were seeking revenge. Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nations links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car, the prime minister said. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Maltas main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicles wreckage spiraling over a wall and into a field, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. Caruana Galizias death resulted from a barbaric attack that also amounted to an assault on freedom of expression, Muscat said. He said the journalist was one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level as he denounced her slaying. One of the topics she examined was the Maltese content in the Panama Papers leaked in 2016. She wrote that Muscats wife, the countrys energy minister and the governments chief-of-staff had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. Muscat and his wife, Michelle, denied they had companies in Panama. Caruana Galizia filed a police report two weeks ago saying she was receiving threats, law enforcement officials told Malta news outlets on Monday. Forensic experts walk in a field after a powerful bomb blew up a car (foreground) and killed investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. (REUTERS) The slain journalist had written a twice-weekly column for The Malta Independent since 1996 and wrote a blog, Running Commentary. A half hour before she was killed, she posted to her website an item about a libel claim the prime ministers chief of staff had brought against a former opposition over comments the latter made about corruption. Caruana Galizia herself had been sued for libel over blog entries. Opposition leader Adrian Delia sued her over stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London. Economy minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote that he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. Monday evenings Parliament session was scrapped, except for briefings about the bombing given by Muscat and Delia, who called the reporters slaying a political murder. Muscat said he has asked the US government and the FBI for help investigating the car bombing. Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband and three sons. One son, Matthew, was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal. Women light candles during a vigil in Sliema in tribute to late journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. (AFP) The leak exposed the identities of rich and powerful people around the world who allegedly had offshore holdings in Panama. Caruana Galizias family has asked the Courts of Malta to replace the magistrate assigned to conduct the inquiry into the journalists death. The family said the magistrate, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, in her personal capacity, had launched judicial procedures against (Caruana Galizia) regarding comments she had written. Caruana Galizia for many years was a harsh critic of Maltas Labor party and government. More recently she had expanded her criticism to include the opposition Nationalist Party. Her slaying drew swift denunciations in the tiny EU nation. Daphne played a vitally important role in unearthing serious allegations of money laundering and corruption in Malta, including those involving senior figures in the Maltese government, said Sven Giegold, a Greens member in the European Parliament. Italian newsweekly LEspresso, which has also written about alleged corruption linked to Malta, said the reporters murder demonstrated that a well-documented expose is perceived as a danger by the powerful and by organized crime. European Parliament President Antonio Tajani in a tweet called the development a tragic example of a journalist who sacrificed her life to search for the truth. Johnson & Johnson on Tuesday won the reversal of a $72 million verdict in favor of the family of a woman whose death from ovarian cancer they claimed stemmed from her use of the companys talc-based products like Johnsons Baby Powder. The Missouri Court of Appeals for the Eastern District said that given a recent US Supreme Court decision that limited where injury lawsuits could be filed, the case over Alabama resident Jacqueline Foxs death should not have been tried in St. Louis. Lawyers for the plaintiffs had no immediate comment. J&J did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The February 2016 verdict for Foxs family was the first of four jury awards totaling $307 million in state court in St. Louis to plaintiffs who accused J&J of not adequately warning consumers about the cancer risks of its talc-based products. J&J, which won one Missouri trial, says it faces lawsuits by 4,800 plaintiffs nationally asserting similar claims over its talc-based products. It also faces cases in California, where in August a jury awarded a woman $417 million. The Missouri cases, which have largely been brought by out-of-state plaintiffs, have faced jurisdictional questions after the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June that limited where personal injury lawsuits could be filed. In a decision in a case involving Bristol-Myers Squibb Co, the Supreme Court said state courts could not hear claims by non-residents who were not injured in that particular state and where the defendant company was not based in that state. The three-judge Missouri appeals court panel cited that decision in its ruling in the case of Fox, who died four months before trial and who was named as one of 65 plaintiffs in her specific lawsuit, only two of which were Missouri residents. The fact that resident plaintiffs sustained similar injuries does not support specific jurisdiction as to non-resident claims, Judge Lisa Van Amburg wrote in her decision. Lawyers for Foxs family say the Alabama resident died in 2015 at age of 62 after using J&Js Baby Powder and Shower to Shower for more than 35 years. J&J sold Shower to Shower to Valeant Pharmaceuticals in 2012. Jurors found Johnson & Johnson liable and awarded $10 million in compensatory damages and $62 million in punitive damages. The case is Estate of Jacqueline Fox et al v. Johnson & Johnson, et al, Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District, No. ED104580. The police are trying to trace the movement of an SUV owned by the father of a three-year-old Indian girl who disappeared in a Texas town after being left outside the house at night as punishment for not drinking milk. Sherin Mathews, who was adopted from an Indian orphanage and has development issues and difficulty communicating, was reported missing on October 7 by her 37-year-old father Wesley Mathews, the Dallas News reported. Wesley, who is under arrest, told the Richardson Police Department he last saw the girl around 3am, when he told her to stand by a tree as punishment. He, however, did not report Sherin missing till 8am. The police said in a public statement that the Mathews SUV was absent from their residence on Sunningdale, between the hours of 4am to 5am. After looking for her, Wesley said he went inside to do laundry and decided to wait until it was daybreak to continue searching or for her to return, police Sergeant Kevin Perlich was quoted by the Dallas News as saying. The mother of the girl was asleep at the time of the incident. We are asking for residents and business owners within an area where this vehicle could have travelled within that hour to review and preserve any video possibly containing this vehicle, the said on Facebook. More than a week after Sherins disappearance, the police said on Tuesday detectives were working through the video surveillance collected. A representative of the Richardson Police Department told Hindustan Times a detective wasnt immediately available for a comment. A response was awaited from the departments public information officer. Wesley Mathews, 37, arrested for suspected child endangerment for the treatment of his three-year old daughter after he punished her for not drinking her milk by telling her to stand outside by herself at night near an alley behind her home, is shown in this police booking photo in Richardson, Texas. (Reuters) According to official documents, Wesley told the police he put Sherin in an alley near their house in the 900 block of Sunningdale, where coyotes have previously been spotted. The tree was behind a fence, about 100 feet south of the familys home and across the alley, the Dallas News reported. Sherin had disappeared when he went back 15 minutes later to check on her, the father said. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has joined the probe and along with the police and has searched the Mathews house. Why was the last sighting at 3 oclock and the parents not call us until after 8am? Thats the question we want answered, police Sergeant Kevin Perlich told a local TV news channel. As far as why she was out there, how long she was out there, thats the questions we have for the parents. Sherins parents also have a four-year-old daughter, who was moved to a foster family by the Child Protection Services, Dallas News reported quoting an agency spokesperson. Sherin was reportedly abandoned by her birth parents when she was two years old. She was adopted by the Mathews when she was three. With inputs from agencies Authorities in Madrid and Barcelona locked horns over whether two jailed Catalan pro-independence leaders were political prisoners, as their detention looked set to reignite secessionist protests. The Madrid High Court upped the stakes on Monday in Spains worst political crisis in decades, moving to thwart Catalonias independence push by jailing the heads of its two main separatist groups pending an investigation for alleged sedition. Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont, given a Thursday deadline to renounce independence or face the threat of direct rule from Madrid, tweeted following the detentions: Sadly, we have political prisoners again. The phrase made a clear allusion to the military dictatorship under Francisco Franco, when Catalan culture and language were systematically suppressed. It carries an emotional resonance given fascism is still a living memory for many Spaniards. In response, Justice Minister Rafael Catala told reporters on Tuesday the jailing of Jordi Sanchez of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omniums Jordi Cuixart was a judicial decision, not a political one. We can talk of politicians in prison but not political prisoners, Catala said. These are not political prisoners because yesterdays prison ruling was due to a (suspected) crime. The exchange threw a spotlight on the way the crisis has deepened divisions at the heart of Spains young democracy, underlining the complex sense of nationhood in the euro zones fourth largest economy. Catalan National Assembly (ANC) president Jordi Sanchez (C), and Pro-independence Catalan Omnium cultural language association president Jordi Cuixart (L) wave as they arrive at the High Court in Madrid on October 16, 2017. (AFP) In Madrid, unionists drape their homes in the national flag, while many Barcelona apartment buildings are festooned with Catalan flags. European capitals and financial markets have meanwhile looked on with mounting alarm since Oct. 1, when Catalan authorities held a referendum on independence in defiance of a Spanish court ban. ORCHESTRATORS? Sanchezs ANC, which has organised protests of hundreds of thousands of secessionists in the past, called for further peaceful demonstrations around Catalonia on Tuesday. The biggest are expected to begin in Barcelona in the evening. Prosecutors say Sanchez and Cuixart helped orchestrate pro-independence protests that last month trapped national police inside a Barcelona building and destroyed their vehicles. That same incident also led to Catalonias police chief, Josep Lluis Trapero, being investigated for sedition. He is accused of failing to order his force to rescue them from the building. He has not been detained but the High Court banned him from leaving Spain and seized his passport. A string of companies, including two major lenders, have decided to move their headquarters outside Catalonia since the referendum. Spanish police launched a violent crackdown in an effort to thwart it, using rubber bullets and batons on voters in scenes that shocked Spains European neighbours. Catalan regional government president Carles Puigdemont delivers a speech on the sidelines of a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating the 77th anniversary of the death of Catalan leader Lluis Companys at the Montjuic Cemetery in Barcelona on October 15, 2017 (AFP) Catalan officials say 43% of voters still managed to cast ballots with 90% in favour of breaking away. Many unionists, however, obeyed Madrid and did not vote. One of Catalonias major foreign investors, Volkswagen, said on Tuesday that its Spanish division, Seat, had decided to delay announcing the name of its forthcoming model. Seat, based in Martorell in Catalonia, had planned to announce the name of its 2018 sport-utility vehicle this month, about a year ahead of the 7-seat models launch. With the entire Spanish media focused on politics at the moment, we have decided to find a better time, a Seat spokesman said, adding the division had also delayed the announcement of an innovation and digitisation agreement. He did not elaborate. The Canadian couple rescued from Taliban captivity last week after being held hostage for five years in Afghanistan did not initially believe Donald Trump was elected as the US President, media reports said. Joshua Boyle, who was captured with his pregnant wife while backpacking in Afghanistan, was told about Trump becoming the President while the group was filming a proof of life video. It didnt enter my mind that he was being serious, Boyle told The Toronto Star in an interview. Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman and their three children were rescued on Wednesday, five years after the couple was abducted in Afghanistan. The family returned to Canada on Saturday. Boyle said the family was held in cells no larger than a bathtub and they had no contact with the outside world. They only had chalk and a slate, he told the Star. Boyle said the kids, who were born in captivity, were adjusting to a new reality after growing up amid a group of pagan bandits. These are children who three days ago they did know what a toilet looks like. They used a bucket, Boyle said in a video released by Pakistans military that was filmed before he left that country for home. Three days ago they did not know what a light is or what a door is except that it is a metal thing that is locked in their face to make them a prisoner. And now they are seeing houses, they are seeing food, they are seeing gifts, all of this. They are doing very well. Freed Canadian hostage Joshua Boyle and one of his children walk outside the Boyle's family home in Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada (AFP Photo) Coleman was pregnant at the time of their abduction and ultimately gave birth to four children while in captivity. Boyle said after landing at Torontos airport that the extremists killed their newborn daughter and raped his wife during the years they were held. The Taliban rejected Boyles claims and said his wife had a natural miscarriage. Today they are free, President Donald Trump had said in a statement on Friday, crediting the US-Pakistani partnership for securing the release. Trump later praised Pakistan for its willingness to do more to provide security in the region and said the release suggests other countries are starting to respect the United States of America once again. (With agency inputs) Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Tuesday relieved all Maoist ministers from their respective duties in yet another episode in the widening crack in the ruling coalition of Nepali Congress and Maoist Centre. The cabinet reshuffle came ahead of elections to the federal and provincial bodies scheduled on November 26 and December 7. A statement issued by the prime ministers secretariat said 10 Maoist ministers and 10 state ministers have been relieved of their duties. The ruling Nepali Congress and Maoist Centre had formed an alliance in August 2016 and decided to run a rotation-based government until the two elections are held. Prime Minister Deuba had replaced the ministers of Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal, the fourth largest, in the recently dissolved Parliament. Earlier on Tuesday, Deuba met Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda and informed him he is going to remove the duties of the Maoist ministers if they do not put in their papers. But Prachanda told Deuba that his party will support the government as the alliance was formed with the aim of holding the crucial elections. The move comes as the two major communist parties- CPN-UML and CPN(Maoist Centre)- decided to forge an electoral alliance and are inching towards a merger. Prime Minister Deuba and his Nepali Congress party had slammed the move of the communist parties to join hands, saying the alliance is to establish an authoritarian regime and poses a danger to democracy. Two top Maoists ministers, Krishna Bahadur Mahara and Janardan Sharma, held separate press conferences on Tuesday and said they will not leave the government until elections are held. After meeting between Deuba and Prachanda, the Maoist party initially decided to walk out from the government. All of a sudden, we got information that scheduled dates of the elections are likely to be postponed, so we decided to continue in government because our primary task is to hold the elections on time. We came to know that PM is all set to defer the polls, so we decided to continue in government until polls are held, said Sharma, who is the home minister. He told reporters that top party leaders were tipped off by the election commission about the polls deferment, an allegation the poll body vehemently denied. After Maoists decided to stay in government, but still hold the alliance with main opposition party, the premier relieved the duties of Maoist ministers, a Nepali Congress leader told HT. Aides to former US President Barack Obama fired back on Tuesday as criticism mounted over President Donald Trumps claim that past US presidents did not contact family members of soldiers who died in combat during their time in the White House. Trump offered no evidence to back up his claim on Monday, which was immediately pointed out to be false. His remarks came amid questions at a press conference over Trump not having responded yet to the deaths of four US soldiers in an Oct. 4 ambush in Niger. Asked why he had not acknowledged the soldiers deaths, Trump said he would send letters to their families later on Monday and would call them at some point during the period of time. Obamas former White House spokesman Josh Earnest said on Tuesday that Obama would repeatedly show his enormous respect ... for those who had paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country through various visits and meetings as well as phonecalls and letters. Trump, a Republican who as president serves as commander-in-chief of the US military, then appeared to criticize his predecessors handling of the issue of American soldiers deaths. The traditional way, if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didnt make calls. A lot of them didnt make calls, Trump said. Pressed on his claim, particularly about Obama, Trump retreated. I dont know if he did. No, Trump said. I was told that he didnt often, and a lot of presidents dont. They write letters ... I do a combination of both. President Obama, I think, probably did sometimes, and maybe sometimes he didnt. I dont know. Thats what I was told, Trump added. Other presidents did not call, theyd write letters. And some presidents didnt do anything. Obamas former aides were quick to lash back. Stop the damn lying - youre the President, Eric Holder, Obamas former attorney general, said in a post on Twitter. Alyssa Mastromonaco, Obamas former deputy chief of staff, also called it a lie. Earnest, now an MSNBC commentator, told the network that past Republican and Democratic presidents had recognized their duty to honor soldiers sacrifices and not highlight their own actions. Unfortunately, President Trump seems incapable of actually doing that, Earnest said. A spokesperson for former President George W Bush said he had called, written and visited the families of fallen soldiers. Representatives of former Presidents Bill Clinton, George HW Bush and Jimmy Carter either did not immediately respond to a request for comment or did not have an immediate reaction. An aide to Clinton told ABC News that he did call the families of fallen soldiers. More than 260 lawmakers in Pakistan, including ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharifs son- in-law, were on Monday suspended by the countrys election commission for not providing details of their assets and liabilities. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) suspended a total of 261 members of the national and provincial assemblies and Senate, the Express Tribune reported. The suspended lawmakers include Sharifs son-in-law and Pakistan Muslim League (N) member Captain Mohammad Safdar, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insafs (PTI) Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Ayesha Gulalai, Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Yousaf and former National Assembly speaker Fehmida Mirza. According to the ECPs notification seven senators, 71 MNA, 84 Punjab Assembly members, 50 Sindh Assembly members, 38 Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa members and 11 Balochistan lawmakers have been suspended, the report said. The ECPs had asked the members of Parliament and provincial assemblies to submit statements of their assets and liabilities and also of their spouses and dependents by September 30, failing which their membership would be suspended. The poll panel took action under sub-section 42A of the Representation of People Act (RoPA), which demands the parliamentarians to provide details of all assets and liabilities each year. It was introduced by former military ruler Pervez Musharraf to check rampant corruption, but so far it has proved ineffective. The law has also been criticised as toothless as any suspended lawmaker can get his or her suspension revoked by providing details of assets to the ECP. Former prime minster Prachanda- led CPN (Maoist Centre) on Tuesday decided to quit the Deuba government in Nepal, days after it joined a Leftist alliance of main opposition CPN-UML to fight the next general elections, according to a media report. Prachandas Maoist Centre was key coalition partner of the Deuba government and it had been facing criticism for staying in the government despite forging an alliance with the main opposition. CPN (Maoist Centre) on October 3 announced an alliance with the countrys largest communist bloc CPN-UML, ahead of the general and provincial elections next month. The elections are seen as the final step in the Himalayan nations post-war transition to a federal democracy. Home minister Janardan Sharma is scheduled to address a press meet later today to announce the partys decision, the Kathmandu Post reported. Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba during the final parliament meet on October 14 had hinted towards removal of CPN (MC) ministers from the government. Earlier, Prachanda had said that despite being a part of the Leftist alliance, his party would continue its support to the government. He said that his party does not intend to topple the Deuba government, but would quit the government if Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba wants so. We are not for affecting the polls by toppling the government. However, if the prime minister and his party, the Nepali Congress, ask us to leave, we wont continue in the government, he had said. Prachanda had said that the decision to forge an alliance with the UML was a result of extreme pressure and compulsion. The Maoists have dominated Nepals politics for more than 20 years after waging a decade-long insurgency against government forces that claimed more than 16,000 lives. The civil war ended in Nepal in 2006 and Maoist leader Prachanda became the countrys first post-war prime minister. The 240-year-old Hindu monarchy was abolished two years later. General elections next month is being seen as the final step in the countrys post-war transition to a federal democracy. The country recently concluded local-level elections in two decades. Nepal has been witnessing political instability for a long time. Madhesis, mostly of Indian-origin, launched a prolonged agitation between September 2015 and February last year against the implementation of the new Constitution which they felt marginalised the Terai community. The son of a slain Maltese journalist on Tuesday described finding his mothers body in pieces after a car bombing and accused Prime Minister Joseph Muscat of being complicit in her grisly killing. Matthew Caruana Galizia, himself a journalist involved in digesting the Panama Papers, said his mother had been assassinated for doing her job in investigating alleged corruption. In an emotional post on his Facebook page, the son of whistleblowing blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia accused Muscat of filling his office with crooks and creating a culture of impunity that had turned Malta into a mafia island. His mother was a veteran journalist, once described as a one-woman Wikileaks, who used her widely-read blog to make a series of detailed allegations of corruption in Muscats inner circle, some based on the Panama Papers data leak. Her killing has triggered an outpouring of grief on the island of just 430,000 people, with thousands turning out to an overnight candlelit vigil in her memory in the fortress capital Valletta. Further Justice for Daphne demonstrations were scheduled on Tuesday. The journalist was the fourth person to die in a Malta car bombing in just over a year but previous attacks were all linked to criminal feuds and did not generate anything like the shock created by Caruanas death. Inferno I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it, Matthew Caruana wrote. They stared at me. Im sorry, there is nothing we can do, one of them said. I looked down and there were my mothers body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless. Muscat described the killing as barbaric and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. That pledge was dismissed by the victims son, who said even one of the police officers involved in investigating the murder had celebrated his mothers death online. A culture of impunity has been allowed to flourish by the government in Malta, he wrote. It is of little comfort for the Prime Minister of this country to say that he will not rest until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a government that encouraged that same impunity. First he filled his office with crooks, then he filled the police with crooks and imbeciles, then he filled the courts with crooks and incompetents. If the institutions were already working, there would be no assassination to investigate - and my brothers and I would still have a mother. Assange reward The judge in charge of investigating the murder stepped aside from the case Tuesday following objections from the Caruana Galizia family that she was too close to the Labour Party administration. Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera had been accused of misconduct by the blogger and had threatened her with libel proceedings. Caruana Galizias death came four months after Muscat won a landslide victory in elections that were called early after she accused his wife of taking kickbacks from Azerbaijans ruling family and hiding the cash in a secret Panama bank account. The claims, which Muscat fervently denies, were the latest in a string of scandals on the island based on information leaked from the records of Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. The so-called Panama Papers revealed how wealthy individuals around the world, including a number of politicians, used shell companies based in the Latin American state and other tax havens to hide cash. Among those exposed were Keith Schembri, Muscats chief of staff, and Konrad Mizzi, a government minister. The premier resisted pressure to fire the pair, insisting their accounts were related to their private business and they had done nothing illegal. Wikileaks founder Julian Assange offered a 20,000 reward for anyone who provided information about the attack leading to the conviction of those responsible. Hate crime driven by considerations of race, religion or disability shot up to nearly 80,400 incidents in the United Kingdom in the year ending March 2017, the period that saw one terror attack and the aftermath of the 2016 EU referendum, figures released on Tuesday show. The report included crime recorded by the police forces after the March 22 terror attack on Westminster Bridge in London, the home office said. Provisional figures show the number rose further after the terror attacks in Manchester, London Bridge and Finsbury Park. Although improvement in police recording has continued to be a factor over the last year, part of the increase since 2015/16 is due to a genuine increase in hate crime, particularly around the time of the EU referendum in June 2016, the home office report said. There was also an increase in hate crime following the Westminster bridge terrorist attack on 22 March 2017, it added. Focussing on hate crime recorded after the EU referendum, the analysis said when the result was announced on June 24, there was a clear spike in hate crimeThe increase in hate crime can be seen by using racially or religiously aggravated offence data. It added: There was an increase in these offences from April 2016, which reached a peak in July 2016. The number of aggravated offences recorded then declined in August 2016, but remained at a higher level than prior to the EU referendum. These increases fit the widely reported pattern of an increase in hate crime following the EU referendum, with the level of these offences being 44% higher in July 2016 compared with the previous July. Victims of hate crime included EU nationals from Poland and other countries after the vote to leave the EU, driven mainly by concerns over immigration from within the 28-nation bloc. The issue remains on top of the agenda in Brexit-related talks in Brussels. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The death toll in an ongoing suicide and gun attack on a police training centre in a southeast Afghan city has risen to 32 with more than 200 wounded, a hospital official said Tuesday. The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood, said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province. A separate attack in a neighbouring province on Tuesday left 15 security forces dead and 12 wounded, as militants step up their offensives following a ratcheting up in US airstrikes in a war-weary country marking 16 years of conflict this month. The victims of the ongoing Gardez attack, which was claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, include women, students and police, officials told AFP. At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault, the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces is under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. Fighting has been going on for more than four hours. A local official said two car bombs went off near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing, Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistans militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The attack came hours after a US drone strike in Pakistans Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. Local officials told AFP that drones were still flying above Kurram after the attack, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. Ghazni attack The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. Militants also targeted security forces in Ghazni on Tuesday, some 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Gardez, officials there said. That attack, which has ended, followed the same pattern, with terrorists detonating an explosives-laden Humvee vehicle near a police headquarters and attackers storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governors spokesman, told AFP. Fifteen security forces were killed and 12 wounded, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman told AFP, adding dozens of Taliban also died. The latest attacks come as four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held Monday in Oman with the aim of ending the Talibans 16-year insurgency. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Tom Marino, his pick as the US drug czar, has withdrawn after it became public that the congressman advocated for legislation undermining the governments ability to crack down on pharmaceutical companies that play a role in the nations opioid crisis. Trump had pegged Marino, a Pennsylvania Republican, to lead the Office of National Drug Control Policy, a post that required Senate confirmation. Trump wrote on Twitter: Rep.Tom Marino has informed me that he is withdrawing his name from consideration as drug czar. Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 17, 2017 The Trump administration has taken criticism for its response to the opioid epidemic. Trump said on Aug. 10 he would declare the opioid epidemic a national emergency, but has not yet done so. Such a declaration would help unlock resources including additional funding and expanded access to various forms of treatment, and would give the government more flexibility in waiving rules and restrictions to expedite action. Asked about the emergency declaration at a news conference on Monday, Trump said, We are going to be doing that next week. ... Its a very important step. And to get to that step, a lot of work has to be done, and its time-consuming work. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that 33,000 deaths were linked to opioids in 2015, the last year with publicly available data. The Washington Post and CBS News published an investigation on Sunday that showed that Marino had worked to weaken federal efforts to slow the flow of opioid drugs. US Vice President Mike Pence said the administration continues to think very highly of Marino. A spokeswoman for Tom Marinos office said the congressman had no immediate comment. The death toll from a US drone attack on a compound used by the Taliban-allied Haqqani network has risen to 26, officials said Tuesday, less than a week after a US-Canadian family held captive by the militants was rescued. The barrage on Monday targeted a meeting of Haqqani fighters in Pakistans remote tribal Kurram district along the Afghan border in the deadliest attack on the group this year. First drone strike killed five fighters from Haqqani network and minutes apart a second drone then fired two more missiles after militants arrived to retrieve dead bodies from the rubble, a senior government official in Kurram told AFP Tuesday. So far 26 dead bodies have been retrieved and drones are still flying in the sky, the official said. The US has increased pressure on Pakistan in recent months to crack down on the outfit. A second government official in Kurram confirmed the drone strikes and the new death toll. Both officials said the strikes took place on the border with Afghanistan, with part of the compound sited in Afghan territory. The Haqqanis are one of the strongest factions in the Afghan Taliban insurgency and have earned a fearsome reputation for their vicious attacks on NATO troops and Afghan installations over the years. The group has long been suspected of having ties to Pakistans shadowy security establishment, souring relations with Washington. Islamabad has repeatedly denied the accusations of turning a blind eye to militancy, lambasting the United States for ignoring the thousands who have been killed on its soil and the billions spent fighting extremists. Canadian hostage Joshua Boyle and his American wife and three children were freed on October 11 in Pakistan after five years of captivity at the hands of the Haqqani network. The United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, deputy secretary of state John J Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang while it continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks, Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst should diplomacy fail, he said. Tensions have soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Leaflets apparently from North Korea calling Trump a mad dog and depicting gruesome images of him have turned up across central Seoul in recent days, adding an unusually personal element to North Korean propaganda. The situation on the Korean peninsula where the attention of the whole world is focused has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment, North Koreas Deputy UN ambassador Kim In Ryong told a UN General Assembly committee on Monday. As long as one does not take part in the US military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country, according to Kims prepared remarks for the discussion on nuclear weapons. Kim did not read that section out loud. The UN Security Council has unanimously ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since 2006. The most recent UN sanctions banned exports of coal, iron ore and seafood, aimed at cutting off one-third of North Koreas total annual exports of $3 billion. Experts say North Korea has been scrambling to find alternative sources of hard currency to keep its economy afloat and to advance its weapons programme further. North Koreas Lazarus hacking group was likely responsible for a recent cyber heist in Taiwan, cyber-security firm BAE Systems Plc said on Monday. Taiwans Central News Agency reported last week that while hackers sought to steal some $60 million from the Far Eastern Bank, all but $500,000 had been recovered by the bank. BAE Systems and other cyber firms have previously linked Lazarus to last years $81 million cyber heist at Bangladeshs central bank. North Korea had also recently allowed citizens as young as 12 to bet on local horse races for the first time, state news agency KCNA reported. Punters had previously risked three years hard labour for gambling in the reclusive and tightly controlled state, but the growing importance of private markets meant more people had money to spend on leisure, experts said. You may have ridiculed Kim Jong Un for constructing lavish facilities while struggling to feed the people, but those things are to make foreign currency, not from foreigners but from the well-offs inside North Korea because you have to pay in U.S. dollars or Chinese renminbi there, said Lee Sang-keun, a researcher at the Institute of Unification Studies of Ewha Womans University in Seoul. Many North Koreans make lots of money from the market, dine at hamburger restaurants and go shopping, all of which help fatten regime coffers. Thats part of the reason why the regime still has some financial latitude despite international sanctions. Frank Williams grew up in Cranston, R.I., and rose to serve as chief justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court. He de-stresses by baking, cooking, and writing, but his most longstanding hobby is collecting items related to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. He and his wife Virginia recently donated one of the worlds largest private Lincoln collections to Mississippi State University in Starkville, where it joins the U.S. Grant Presidential Library. The items, ranging from books and pamphlets to sculptures and ephemera, will be housed in a new 22,000-square foot facility. Rotating exhibits will feature collection items. CWT: How did you get your start as a collector? FW: In 1952, when I was 12, in the sixth grade, we were seated by last name, last row, last seat and I always kind of resented that, but I sat under this portrait, a full-length portrait or engraving of Lincoln, and I loved the face. I was already into U.S. history. My mother read a lot to me and I had a good teacher who saw this interest and encouraged me. Not long after, I was using my lunch money, 25 cents a day, to buy used books on Lincoln, like the Carl Sandburg biography. When I was 13, I wanted to be a lawyer because Lincoln was such a good lawyer. I never deviated from that even when I majored in history and government. I spent almost five years in the military, mostly abroad, and then back to law school, which only increased my interest in collecting and reading and eventually writing about Abraham Lincoln. CWT: When did you expand from books to other items? FW: Youre not making much money at 13 years old. My fathers business was in landscape construction, and I did manage to get money together to buy Leonard Volks sculpture of Lincolns face. Volk took Lincolns life mask and his hands and made plaster of Paris, and then he would create the mold, then add ears and hairs. This little bust came from that, and it is still on my desk in my chambers at the Rhode Island Supreme Court. [quote style=boxed float=right]We didnt even know how much material we had until it was being packed[/quote] CWT: Were these items all in your home? FW: We had two libraries in the house, one in the upper level, which was for all Lincoln and related items, and one in the sub level, which was Civil War and collateral with other artifacts and ephemera. Other items in a guest house next door, some more in my chambers in the city in Providence, and some books in storage. When the fine art movers came last month, they had to go to four locations and the bank vault, which held the handwritten manuscripts from Lincoln. They spent 2 weeks here packing. They did it by room, then they packed all the statuary in boxes with foam rubber cavities. Larger items in wooden crates. When they went to Mississippi State University (MSU) in Starkville it was two semitrailers holding 22 pallets containing 242 boxes and the wooden crates holding the large statuary. CWT: Do you know how many items you had? FW: Most of the collection is cataloged in one form or another. That includes 12,000 books and pamphlets, as well as 17,000 itemsprints, paintings, campaign material, coins, stamps, cartes-de-visite, on and on and on. We didnt even know how much material we had until it was being packed. CWT: Do you miss it? FW: Yes and no, I have to say in all honesty. Its the right time and the right place. Ill be 77 years old next month. I dont act it or feel it. I still like to read about Lincoln and the Civil War and write about it and also continue to collect. I did go through a postpartum depression, but Im over that now. Now if you were to ask Virginia, she was ready three years ago. CWT: Whose idea was it to begin the process of donating the collection? FW: After considering other institutions many, many years ago, we decided some day it would go to a school that did not have a Civil War and Lincoln collection. Then it evolved into preferring the South for many reasons. The Civil War didnt end at Appomattox in April 1865. And we have a House Divided thats even more divided now than it was decades ago. I thought we had come a long way but I do not think our culture has been consistent with the vision of the Declaration of Independence that Lincoln valued and we value so much. We created a relationship with Mississippi State University because I was instrumental in getting the U.S. Grant collection and presidential papers transferred from Carbondale, Illinois, to MSU in Starkville. CWT: What do you hope will happen? FW: It is our legacy, but more than for me and Virginia it is for the university to hold itself out as a great resource institution for General-President Grant and President Lincoln, antebellum history, as well as Reconstruction, the middle period of our history. The university built a new floor on top of the present existing library to house the Grant and Lincoln collections and to build adjoining galleries. All of this came together to make this an even greater institution than it is right now. CWT: What will the access be? Some items on display? Or for research? FW: The two galleries will showcase items from the Frank and Virginia Williams Collection on Lincolniana and the Civil War and the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library. It will be rotating exhibits because of the vast amount of material we had. The library and pamphlets and books and manuscripts will be available for everybody. We have endowed an annual lecture. Theres a provision in our will that whatever we have left in the house or whatever we collect goes to MSU. So its a commitment and there is no cost to the user. What really pleases me is that theyve already started a website for the collection and much of the collection will be digitized. So you dont have to travel to Starkville. Its somewhat of a difficult place to get to. I know that from personal experience. CWT: Is there something you long to find that you never have? FW: Yes. There are two Lincoln prints, small satirical sketches by David Gilmour Blythe. One is called Crushing the Dragon of Rebellion and it has to do with Lincolns suspension of the precious writ of habeus corpus, the right to have your detention checked by a magistrate. The other shows Lincoln at work on the Emancipation Proclamation, sitting in his cabinet room, surrounded by books and papers with the Bible and the U.S. Constitution on his lap. Founding documents are at his feet, as if he is trampling on them. The prints are as rare as hens teeth. Theres also a maquette of Lincoln sitting that is about 24 inches tall, by a sculptor by the name of Charles Keck. Thats about it. CWT: Do you collect anything other than Lincoln items? FW: World War II is a favorite of mine and includes Winston Churchill. I am also a big fan of Charles Dickens. Im very much into the Cold War generally because I am a Cold War warrior and a Vietnam veteran. That conflict, as controversial as it was and remains, still interests me. CWT: Do you have any advice for a new collector? FW: What I say to young people who are interested in Lincoln: you will probably never see a collection like this again because it is so comprehensive and massive. It encompasses all art forms and print forms. What I say to budding collectors is to pick a specific area to collect. This could be new books on the writ of habeus corpus, books relating to Lincolns career as a lawyer, or books on his assassination. Interview conducted by Senior Editor Sarah Richardson The Grant Cottage, operated by the Friends of the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage State Historic Site, remains a pilgrimage point for Civil War enthusiasts and regional vacationers alike. (Courtesy Gordon Berg) The porcelain clock on the mantle marks the moment time stopped in the cozy vacation cottage high on a hill above the Hudson River Valley. The Adirondack Mountains shimmer on one horizon; the Catskills on the other. Duncan McGregor, for whom the 1,070-foot-high mountain is named, couldnt have imagined that the site he bought to harvest its trees would later become the last refuge of Ulysses S. Grant, savior of the Union and twice-elected president of the United States, who had retreated there in a race to finish his memoirs before the cancer that plagued him achieved its final victory. When Grant took his last breath at 8:08 a.m. on July 23, 1885, his eldest son, Fred, immediately stopped the hands of the clock on the mantle. Today the Grant Cottage, a state historic site since 1957 and operated by the Friends of the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage State Historic Site since 1989, remains a pilgrimage point for Civil War enthusiasts and regional vacationers alike. It was added to the National Historic Register in 1971, and was recently designated a Literary Landmark by United for Libraries in partnership with the Empire State Center for the Book. Though Civil Warrelated sites are not common in upstate New York, visitors are drawn to the area to experience its many points of historical interest, recreational opportunities, fine art and music, and an abundance of dining and lodging experiences. Ulysses S. Grant seated in rattan chair writing his memoirs at Mount McGregor on June 27th, 1885 (Library of Congress) Grant spent only the last five weeks of his life at Mount McGregor. He arrived in nearby Saratoga Springs on June 16, 1885, via a special train aboard the private rail car of Cornelius Vanderbilt. Only eight months before, Dr. J.D. Douglas of New York diagnosed Grant with terminal throat cancer. A team of doctors believed the regions clear, cool air might prove soothing to the ailing general and give him the time he needed to finish writing and editing his memoirs. Grant had unwittingly lost his familys fortune in a fraudulent financial scheme, and his friend, author Mark Twain, believed the generals reminiscences would provide Julia Grant with the security she would need after her husband died. Joseph W. Drexel owned the cottage that stood in the shadow of his popular resort Hotel Balmoral. He quickly refurbished it for use by the general and his entourage that included family members, servant, stenographer, and medical staff. Grant arrived at the resort via an 11-mile narrow gauge railroad built by Drexel to ferry guests from Saratoga Springs to the hotel. When Grant tried to walk the final steps to the cottage, he almost collapsed from the effort. A special invalids bath chair conveyed him to the porch. There, Grant willed himself to climb the steps to his final residence with only the aid of a cane. On July 20th Grant asked to be taken to the Eastern Overlook, a beautiful vantage point with panoramic views of the valley and the mountains in the distance. (Courtesy Gordon Berg) During his good days, Grant usually sat in a wicker chair on the northeast corner of the cottages wide veranda, reading galley proofs of what he had written and writing revisions and additions on a tablet resting on a lap board. When not working, he read the newspapers and greeted friends, throngs of well-wishers, and the morbidly curious who steadily streamed up the mountain. When his voice failed, he communicated through pencil talks, jotting notes to visitors. Newspaper reporters, staying at the nearby hotel, provided daily, detailed updates on the slightest changes in the generals condition. Some days, his condition seemed to improve; other days there were setbacks. No one, however, expected a recovery. Indeed, on July 2 Grant wrote to Dr. Douglas, I would say, therefore, to you and your colleagues to make me as comfortable as you can.I should prefer going now to enduring my present suffering for a single day without hope of recovery. The nights were when Grant suffered most. Unable to sleep in a bed for many months, he slept practically upright between two leather-bound easy chairs in a small rear room. Today, the room holds refurbished replicas of the chairs, his reading lamp and glasses, and samples of the paper and pencils he used to write when he couldnt sleep. His nightshirt, hair and mustache brush, a blood pressure cuff, and his beaver top hat are on display in a glass-door cabinet. On top of the cabinet, a tall glass apothecary tube still contains the emulsion of cocaine used to dress his painful throat. Grant rarely ventured beyond the cottage. Any outdoor activity exhausted his wasted body. Throughout his stay at Mount McGregor, he always ate alone and took only small amounts of specially prepared liquid food. When he died, Grant weighed barely 80 pounds. Nevertheless, on July 20 he expressed a wish to be taken to the Eastern Overlook, a beautiful vantage point with panoramic views of the valley and the mountains in the distance. Visitors can walk there today and see essentially what Grant did during the last 20 minutes he ever spent in the open air. On July 22 Grant drifted in and out of consciousness and consented to be moved to the front room and placed in the bed. (Courtesy Gordon Berg) His health declined rapidly from there. At 1 a.m. on July 22, Dr. Douglas summoned all family members and medical staff to the cottage. During his last day, Grant drifted in and out of consciousness. He consented to be moved to the front room and placed in the bed there. Julia Grant held his hand; Fred stroked his brow. Perhaps the last words he hoarsely whispered were, I hope no one will be distressed by my condition. The room where he died is known today simply as The Death Room. Grant, the unassuming man who vowed to fight it out on this line if it takes all summer, had held the line long enough to finish his memoirs just four days before he died. First published in December 1885, the two-volume set earned $450,000 in royalties for the Grant family in the first two years (equivalent to $11 million today). The books have never been out of print. The dining room table served as Grants first bier. The body was embalmed and he lay in state until August 4. Several original floral arrangements were preserved in wax and still stand their ghostly post in the dining room. The final burial services were held in Riverside Park in New York City on August 8. A million people lined the funeral route, and 60,000 participated in the parade. Mrs. Grant did not attend. She stayed at Mount McGregor for another month. Joseph Drexel never occupied his cottage again. He turned it over to the Grand Army of the Republic to keep the cottage open to the public as a memorial. The State of New York actually considered tearing it down before The Friends of the Cottage mounted a campaign to keep it open. When Grant took his last breath at 8:08 am on July 23, 1885, his eldest son, Fred, immediately stopped the hands of clock. (Courtesy Gordon Berg) The cottage has remained essentially unchanged since Grant occupied it. But there have been many changes around it. The Hotel Balmoral burned to the ground in 1897. A 30-building tuberculous sanatorium was built on its ashes. The sanatorium later became a rest home for veterans, a facility for the developmentally disabled, and then a medium security prison. When the prison closed in 2014, the complex was offered to private developers, but it remains unsold. The Grant Cottage remains the sole the master of Mount McGregor. Easy access to nearby historic Saratoga Springs offers everything a history-loving vacationer could ask for. In August, theres thoroughbred racing at bucolic Saratoga Springs Race Track. Augment or lose your winnings at two 24-hour casinos. On the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park, enjoy invigorating mineral baths before going to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center for outdoor concert, dance, and theater presentations. Nearby, in the Town of Stillwater, lies the Saratoga Battlefield National Historical Park, site of a pivotal Revolutionary War engagement. The Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery is in Schuylerville, N.Y. Most motel chains have Saratoga Springs locations or you can splurge at The Inn at Saratoga or Batcheller Mansion Inn. Camping enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities at nearby Moreau Lake State Park. Eating can be a gastronomes delight. Eat inexpensively downtown on Broadway at Comptons Restaurant or Uncommon Grounds. Top shelf dining abounds including Lake Ridge, The Wishing Well, and Longfellows restaurants. Houston billboards, part of a media campaign, are asking energy companies, whose fossil fuel products are blamed for accelerating climate change, to pay their "fair share" for the massive Hurricane Harvey recovery process. The Center for Climate Integrity and Public Citizen say that man-made climate change is warming ocean waters and strengthening storms like Harvey, helping them to unleash much more rainfall and flooding on communities. The overwhelming consensus among scientists is that burning coal, petroleum products and natural gas is quickening the pace of global warming by emitting carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere. This is just the beginning of a larger national campaign that's starting in Houston and includes a website, whopaysforharvey.com, said Adrian Shelley, Texas director for Public Citizen. He noted that U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research scientists have said up to 30 percent of Harvey's rainfall could be attributed to human contributions. The first two billboards are on Texas 225 near the Richey Street exit and along Texas 59 near Kingwood. Todd Staples, president of the Texas Oil & Gas Association, criticized the effort, arguing that people need affordable energy from oil and gas. "It's sad and unfortunate that environmental extremists, who oppose fossil fuels, would use misinformation to exploit a terrible tragedy," Staples said in an email response. "It's the same scare tactic and fundraising tool they've used for years. It is undeniable that energy development improves our personal well-being and quality of life," Staples said. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate If a drug dealer made campaign donations to a city council member who then passed an ordinance stopping police from enforcing drug laws, everyone involved would end up in prison. Yet after pharmaceutical companies gave campaign contributions to Pennsylvania Congressman Tom Marino, who helped limit the Drug Enforcement Agency's power to stem the flood of opioid tablets onto America's streets, President Donald Trump nominated the Republican lawmaker to become the nation's next drug czar. And Big Pharma will rake in tens of millions more in ill-gotten profits. An investigative report by The Washington Post and CBS's 60 Minutes revealed over the weekend how one of the most important industries in America used Congress to defeat a law enforcement agency desperately trying to get dangerous drugs off the street. Everyone should know by now how drug makers began marketing new formulations of opioid narcotics in the mid-1990s as somehow safe. The drugs are essentially the same as heroin, effective at relieving pain but highly addictive. Big Pharma, though, claimed to have found a way to make them non-addictive. RELATED: Drug addicts deserve employers' compassion, not ridicule Doctors accepted the marketing at face value and began prescribing the drugs for almost any kind of pain, including stubbed toes. Turns out these new formulations were not safe, and America's opioid addiction crisis was born. The overdose rate has jumped 400 percent from 1998, and 18,000 Americans die a year from opioid drug overdoses. The epidemic has reached well into the middle class, snaring blue-collar workers and professionals alike. As more people have become addicted, the more they have relied on fraudulent and illegal means of obtaining their pharmaceutical-grade heroin. A critical method the DEA had to control the problem was to freeze sales to suspected pill mills where bad doctors write tens of thousands of prescriptions a year. But after years of paying DEA fines for selling pills to illegal outlets, Big Pharma spent $106 million to lobby Congress for more industry-friendly laws, according to the Post/60 Minutes investigation. A new law passed in April 2016 now makes it practically impossible for the DEA to stop pharmaceutical companies from delivering suspicious orders. "The drug industry, the manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors and chain drugstores, have an influence over Congress that has never been seen before," said Joseph Rannazzisi, who ran the DEA's division responsible for regulating the drug industry and led a decade-long campaign of aggressive enforcement until he was forced out of the agency in 2015. "I mean, to get Congress to pass a bill to protect their interests in the height of an opioid epidemic just shows me how much influence they have." When reporters from the Post and 60 Minutes went to Marino's office to seek comment, Marino called Capitol Police on them. Top officials from both the Obama and Trump administrations refused to comment or answer questions. They hope that by ignoring the issue, it will go away. RELATED: TV ad symptom of America's opioid crisis My outrage begins with DEA having to intervene at all to stop pharmaceutical companies from pumping dangerous drugs onto America's streets. If one rural clinic in West Virginia is selling millions of pills a year, that should sound alarm bells at corporate headquarters and prompt an investigation. They shouldn't wait for a call from the DEA. That kind of negligence is why 41 state attorneys general and hundreds of cities and counties are suing opioid manufacturers for negligence and contributing to what has become a multi-billion dollar health crisis. To spend millions of dollars, though, to influence lawmakers to roll back laws designed to stop drug abuse is a whole new level of greed. These companies who say they want to ease suffering are creating one of the most serious epidemics in American history and doing their best to maximize profits from other people's pain. Unfortunately, we see this kind of behavior time and time again. Big, profitable industries become so powerful, and so driven to generate shareholder return, they show complete disregard for the communities where they operate. They spend their profits to fend off regulators in order to generate higher profits, even when the result is a national crisis. Pharmaceuticals, energy and chemicals are vital products that our society requires. But that dependency should not license these companies to abuse people or the environment. It is just wrong for an industry to take advantage because we need its products. True business leaders understand their ultimate responsibility is to their customers and the communities where they operate. Maximizing return for shareholders is no excuse for borderline criminal activity. Hopefully, these drug makers will pay for their betrayal of our country in court. RELATED: Drugs mar more than the oil patch J. Scott Applewhite/STF WASHINGTON - The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to decide whether federal prosecutors can force technology companies to turn over data stored outside the United States. Disputes between leading technology companies and the Justice Department have become increasingly common, and the new case will give the Supreme Court an opportunity to weigh in on the clash between the demands of law enforcement and the companies' desire to shield the information they collect to protect their customers' privacy. It seems clear that Joseph Avery had strong ties to at least one pro-slavery newspaper, according to a historical report issued by Oregon State University, but confusion persists about whether he actually shared those opinions or merely used them to his advantage in a cynical game of political infighting. That confusion clouded the conversation Monday night about whether the university should remove Averys name from a campus building, one of four structures being evaluated for possible renaming because their namesakes may have held racist views. We dont really know what he did or didnt believe, do we? asked one participant at Mondays meeting in the Memorial Union Ballroom. Avery is widely regarded as the founding father of Corvallis and was instrumental in the founding of Oregon State University. In 1966 the university named a cooperative housing building at 1030 S.W. Madison Ave. in his honor. Avery Lodge, renovated in 2016, now houses the administrative offices of University Housing & Dining Services, the Family Resource Center and the Human Services Resource Center. According to a report written by Stacey L. Smith, an associate professor of history at OSU, most historians agree that Avery played an important behind-the-scenes role in the Occidental Messenger, a virulently pro-slavery newspaper published in Corvallis from June 1857 to June 1858, even though his name never appeared on the masthead. But Smith also points out that the newspaper changed its stance after Oregonians, in a preamble to statehood, voted for a constitution that barred slavery while also excluding free blacks. In addition, Averys rivals for control of the states Democratic Party claimed he didnt really support slavery at all but merely pretended to in order to build his political base among pro-slavery Oregonians. Avery may also have had ties to two later pro-slavery publications, the Democratic Crisis and the Oregon Union, although Smith found no clear evidence of his involvement. (Full disclosure: T.B. Odeneal, editor of the Democratic Crisis, later edited the staunchly Republican Corvallis Gazette, a forerunner of todays Gazette-Times.) Finally, Smith notes that the Corvallis School Board reversed its 2004 decision to name a middle school for Avery after the local chapter of the NAACP and others objected, ultimately calling it Linus Pauling Middle School instead. After hearing a summary of Smiths report, the 50 or so people at Mondays meeting broke up into six table groups, each with its own note-taker and facilitator. The four people at one table a current OSU student, two alumni (one male, one female) and one man who identified himself as a direct descendant of Joseph Avery had a lively yet civil discussion, but they couldnt seem to decide whether Avery Lodge should be renamed. All four refused to be quoted by name for this story. Much of the conversation revolved around the question of competing values: Should Avery Lodge be renamed because its namesake probably backed a pro-slavery newspaper at a time when such views were widely held, or should the name live on because of Averys contributions to the community and the university? The student started things off by expressing support for students of color who object to having campus buildings named for slave owners or others who endorsed slavery. That led to a conversation about the propriety of naming buildings for white pioneers who appropriated land from Native Americans. I hear a lot of people worrying about losing their history, but at the same time we have a lot of other people whose history has been lost and who may not have a lot of written history or recorded history, the student said. I wonder how far we go with this, the female OSU graduate countered, citing last weeks discussion about renaming Arnold Dining Center. That building honors Benjamin Lee Arnold, a slaveholder who fought in the Confederate Army and went on to become an early president of OSU. Do we erase that history? Averys descendant echoed that concern. Look at a street like Washington, he said. Is that going to be renamed because (President George Washington) was a known slaveholder? While we shouldnt lose sight of historical context, its also critical to keep contemporary realities in mind, the student argued. Right now, across from the Black Cultural Center, they have a Confederate flag flying and we have a president who says things I would say are racist, he said. How do we come to a consensus when we each experience these things in different ways? I see their point and what they are feeling, Averys descendant responded. But they also, I dont believe, have all the information in knowing the history of Corvallis and whats behind the Avery name. The female graduate said theres value in discussing the issue even if no changes are made. Certainly now were more aware that our country is more diverse than it was and how many people were marginalized, she said. I believe all of that is part of our history, and we have to own it and that we dont necessarily need to change it, but we have to be aware of the context of the times. Two more meetings on whether to rename campus buildings are scheduled this week. A discussion on Benton Hall will be held at 5:30 p.m. today, and a discussion about Gill Coliseum will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. Both will take place in the Memorial Union Ballroom. Feedback from all four meetings, as well as historical reports and other evidence assembled by a university work group studying the building names issue, will be submitted to OSU President Ed Ray for consideration. Ray is expected to announce a decision about whether to rename any or all of the buildings by the end of November. The list of celebrities weighing in on allegations of sexual harassment and assault by Harvey Weinstein is growing longer by the day. But one op-ed, written by "The Big Bang Theory" and "Blossom" actress Mayim Bialik, is being criticized as victim-blaming and placing responsibility on women for not getting sexually assaulted. Bialik addressed the backlash early Sunday morning via a message posted on Twitter, writing "a bunch of people have taken my words out of the context of the Hollywood machine and twisted them to imply that God forbid I would blame a woman for her assault based on her clothing or behavior." "Anyone who knows me and my feminism knows that's absurd and not at all what this piece was about. It's so sad how vicious people are being when I basically live to make things better for women." Bialik added that she'd discuss the story on Monday during a Facebook Live with the New York Times. In an essay for the Times published Friday, Bialik wrote about her entering "the Hollywood machine in 1986 as a prominent-nosed, awkward, geeky, Jewish 11-year-old" while also knowing "I didn't look or act like other girls in my industry, and that I was immersing myself in a business that rewarded physical beauty and sex appeal above all else." But as she went on to describe the pressures young girls like her faced to alter their appearance, and getting teased both by family and in the press, she added that she "always made conservative choices as a young actress." Her parents warned her men "only want one thing." Her mother forbade makeup and manicures and "encouraged me to be myself in audition rooms, and I followed my mother's strong example to not put up with anyone calling me 'baby' or demanding hugs on set. I was always aware that I was out of step with the expected norm for girls and women in Hollywood." "In a perfect world, women should be free to act however they want. But our world isn't perfect," Bialik wrote. "Nothing - absolutely nothing - excuses men for assaulting or abusing women. But we can't be naive about the culture we live in." She wrote that she still makes choices she considers "self-protecting and wise" and "my sexual self is best reserved for private situations with those I am most intimate with. I dress modestly. I don't act flirtatiously with men as a policy." Bialik concluded the essay by writing "if you're not a perfect 10, know that there are people out there who will find you stunning, irresistible and worthy of attention, respect and love. The best part is you don't have to go to a hotel room or a casting couch to find them." The essay immediately drew ire online, including among prominent writers and actresses who took issue with Bialik's framing. "Reminder. I got raped at work at a Payless shoe store," Gabrielle Union wrote on Twitter. "I had on a long tunic & leggings so miss me w/ 'dress modestly' s---." Patrica Arquette (whose sister, Rosanna, has publicly accused Weinstein of sexual harassment), wrote directly to Bialik on Twitter, "it is also not outrageous for anyone to (be) expected to be treated in a professional manner (sic) by anyone in a professional relationship." She continued in a series of tweets: "Is choosing to portray complicated characters an invitation for predators? Does that mean (you're) fair game? Should we all just chose to tackle material that doesn't explore that side of different women? Because Hollywood (and the world) has predators, is it a woman's responsibility?" The Weinstein fallout started last week when the Times published an explosive story about Weinstein's numerous settlements with women, and including Ashley Judd going on the record to accuse Weinstein of sexual harassment. Since then, the New Yorker published its own bombshell story, with even more serious on-the-record accusations by women, including some who said Weinstein raped them. Weinstein's representative, Sallie Hofmeister, said regarding on-the-record allegations, Weinstein "believes that all of those relationships were consensual" and that "any allegations of nonconsensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr. Weinstein." Google is honoring Selena with her very own Doodle. The Tejano icon is prominently displayed on the Google homepage via a rundown of her life and legacy. See the full 90-second story above, which debuted at 11 p.m. Monday. QUEREMOS BAILAR: Tumbleweeds hosts 'official' Selena tribute in Houston The Selena Google Doodle commemorates the anniversary of her self-titled album, which was released Oct. 17 1989, and provides a nice bookend to Hispanic Heritage Month. That album included the songs "Sukiyaki," "Contigo Quiero Estar" and "Besitos." Additionally, a visual exhibit on the Google Arts & Culture site includes images of her iconic outfits, her first Grammy, car, and fan artwork. ICONIC: Diplo's Selena shirt has us wishing for a remix album Google Doodles debuted in 1998 as "spontaneous changes" to the Google logo used to to celebrate holidays, anniversaries and the lives of famous artists, pioneers and scientists. The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for a Katy man who was identified as the only person missing after an oil rig exploded in Louisiana Sunday. Timothy Morrison, 44, had lived in Texas since at least 1991, according to property records, and most recently lived in Katy. After saturating the search area using multiple resources and assets, rescuers suspended the search for Morrison at 7:15 p.m. "The decision to suspend a search is never an easy one," said Cmdr. Zac Ford. "We send our thoughts and prayers to the Morrison family and all those affected by this incident." Morrison was a contractor for Clovelly Oil Co., which owns the platform, officials said. At a press conference Monday, officials from Jefferson Parish, where the accident occurred, said they still did not know what caused the explosion that injured seven, three of which were still in critical condition Monday. "We're still out there," Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto said, according to local media. "I don't think that will change to recovery. We will be out there as long as we can." "We have no idea what caused it," he said. "Anybody who makes a guess, that is pure speculation at this point." The platform exploded Sunday night, shooting fire high into the sky, according to local reports. Local officials wrote on Facebook that cleaning chemicals had ignited the structure, which was undergoing maintenance at the time of the incident. Five of those injured were hospitalized for "blast-type injuries and burns," said Mike Guillot, director of East Jefferson Emergency Medical Services. A Clovelly spokesperson said the platform is a storage and accumulation point for gas and oil from other wells. "It's basically an underwater storage tank," spokesman Tim O'Leary told ABC News. The U.S. Coast Guard and other agencies have been conducting searches of the 90-square-mile area throughout the day. Those operations have been complicated by the level of the sea and stiff winds, Lopinto told ABC. Resident who live near the rig said they could feel the explosion happen. "My house actually shook," Andrew Love, 32, told NOLA.com/The Times Picayune . "At first I thought it was a sonic boom or something, I had no idea what was happening." A friend recently sent me a video clip that changed my life: liquid cheese cascading down multiple tiers, fountain style, into a burbling pool of chip-ready yellow-orange goodness. Apparently I'd been living under a large brick of Velveeta. Why wouldn't someone hack a chocolate fountain with liquid cheese? Sergio Ruiz, the owner of Chocolate Fountain Express, has supplied food fountains for events in Houston for more than a decade. He says that he still encounters people like me who have never before seen a cheese version. A few things I learned from Ruiz about these intriguing specimens: The cheese should be liquid when added to the fountain. This might mean thinning a pre-made cheese sauce with buttermilk or the like, or creating your own mix from scratch. Ruiz's housemade recipe involves cheddar cheese and milk, but he would not share more than that for fear of me starting my own queso-fountain business. Technically, chile con queso - queso with added elements such as tomato, chile and onion - would not work in the machine because it can get clogged. "The fountain should run uniformly. It has to be nice flowing," Ruiz said. Finally, despite your immediate instinct to grab a chip and hold it directly under falling cheese, it's more sanitary to use a ladle or spoon. But no matter your presentation or recipe, queso fountains are always a crowd-pleaser. "It's one of our best-sellers," Ruiz said, "The cheese fountains are perfect for cocktail hours, weddings or any receptions, corporate happy hours or midnight-snacks events." If you want one at your party, you can call Chocolate Fountain Express - or purchase a relatively inexpensive chocolate fountain from Walmart or Amazon and hack away. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate I had a mandate from the boss: Weigh in on what wines pair best with queso, or surrender my column space for the week. No chance of that happening! Still, I approached the task with a measure of trepidation and no small amount of skepticism. For me, queso has always meant salt-rimmed margaritas or Negro Modelos. The end. However, because narrow-minded thinking gets a person nowhere, I cleared my head, steeled my palate and chowed down, serving up a heaping bowl of El Tiempo Cantina queso, chips on the side, with 10 inexpensive wines (all less than $20 and a couple way under) wines. Half were red, four were white, and I threw in a rose, too. My wife and four folks who had been previously invited to dinner were willing participants in this grand experiment. I'm a staunch believer in consensus, after all. The results were muddled. As my friend Bill observed, "What doesn't taste good with queso?" And because everybody in the mix loves rose, that proved a popular option. (Me: "What doesn't taste good with rose?") The buttery chardonnay was the least popular, but a tart, acidic trebbiano earned high marks, as did a simple but well-made California riesling. Among the reds, a Paso Robles cabernet, an Aussie red blend, a cab franc from Texas and a grenache blend from France's Southern Rhone Valley, all featuring supple fruit flavors, earned the most compliments. I presented the wines I did only because they were already on hand. I once drank Australian viognier with El Real's Tex-Mex and thought that worked splendidly, but I didn't have a viognier to offer my gang. Another missing wine was, regrettably, champagne. When I followed up with one of my favorite go-to experts, sommelier Justin Vann of Public Services Wine & Whisky, he needed about a nanosecond to declare that would be his go-to choice. And the reason he gave explains why the aforementioned trebbiano - from Duchman Family Vineyards in, fittingly, the heart of Tex-Mex country - worked so nicely. Key word: acidic. "I have actually done this research, and the short answer is champagne," he said, before chastising me for what was clearly a rookie mistake. "Dale, champagne is the first thing you try with everything." One night at the bar at Public Services, he'd gotten hungry and ordered a Tex-Mex meal that came with chips and queso, and he fortuitously had a bottle of Suenen Extra Brut on hand that was already open. Epiphany! Except the Suenen sells for $110, and do you really want to spend that kind of scratch for a queso pairing? Reassuringly, Vann said, "I'm pretty sure it would work incredibly well with a cremant de Bourgogne or a sparkling Vouvray, or a really nice Prosecco." He added that it's not just the acidity of the wine playing off the fat in the cheese but "a textural thing, too. Crunchy chips and sparkling wine. That's a pretty hard combo to beat." Vann sells the Tripoz Cremant de Bourgogne 2014 at Public Services for $59. But, no, he doesn't offer queso on his munchie list. Yet. "Now," he said, "I wish I'd picked some up before we had this conversation." This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate You're standing in a paint store looking at a wall with thousands of paint color options. Do you go with a neutral or a tinted color? What about trim? Whether you're working on a planned update or rebuilding after Hurricane Harvey damage, making decisions about paint colors can be overwhelming. If you're in hurricane-recovery mode, you may have dried out your home and installed drywall and are ready to think about wall colors. Sure, paint is inexpensive - but this is a decision you want to make just once. And when your home is finished being painted, you want to like it. Color experts at the nation's biggest paint companies say that if you break down the process and search the internet for photos of rooms, your preferences will become clear faster than you might think. "We hear it all the time: 'I'm looking at a wall of 3,500 colors and I have no clue, and I have a 1-inch paint chip. How do I envision it?" said Andrea Magno, a color and design expert at Benjamin Moore. Assess what you have Start with what's around you, Magno advises. Look at your flooring, furniture colors and even what's around a fireplace, such as stone or brick. Draw from those colors, she said. Start with complementary neutrals: whites, beiges or grays. If you're completely starting over - furnishings and all - Dee Schlotter, senior color marketing manager for PPG and Olympic Paints, suggests that you decide on everything else, then pick your paint color last. You don't want your wall color to drive everything, and you want to make sure that its undertones - warm or cool - match those in the rest of your decor, she said. "Some people pick off-white because it will go with everything, but when you pick paint color last, you're truly integrating your space," she said. "A little bit of shift to warmer white or beige or a little bit of gray can make a huge change in the finished look." Then consider how the space will be used. The tone of a home office (businesslike) might be different from a bedroom (restful) or space where you entertain (lively or vibrant), said Misty Yeomans, PPG's color marketing manager for its Glidden products. Do your research The internet can be your new best friend. Search Pinterest, Instagram and Houzz to see what colors you're drawn to. Visit a paint store to look at paint chips, then when you have it narrowed down, buy a sample and paint foam core. Place that painted board in different parts of the room at different times of day. If you like it morning, noon and night, you've got your color. More Information Most popular paint colors PPG's most popular neutrals in Houston: Antique White, Stewart House Brown, Granite Grey, Pebble Grey, Universal Grey Glidden's most popular colors in Houston: Red Geranium, Classic Burgundy, Red Delicious, Candy Apple, Clipper Ship Blue PPG Paints' most popular colors nationally: Delicate White, Flagstone, Toasted Almond, Whiskers, Swirling Smoke, Dover Gray. For trim, Milk Paint is a good choice for warm undertones; for cool undertones, try Pacific Pearl. Olympic Paints' most popular colors nationally: Toasted Almond, City Street, Black Magic, Heavy Cream, Silk Sails. For trim, Delicate White is the cleanest white from PPG and Olympic paints. If you need warm undertones, try Purity; for cool undertones, try Horseradish. Benjamin Moore's most popular colors: Revere Pewter (with White Dove trim), Edgecomb Gray (with Chantilly Lace trim), Silver Marlin (with Distant Gray trim); other colors include Harbor Haze, Gentleman's Gray or Incense Stick. Sherwin-Williams' most popular colors: Gray Screen, Alabaster, Extra White, Balanced Beige, Amazing Gray. Other good colors include Worldly Gray, Oceanside or Rice Grain. Extra White is its pure white color that looks good on trim with a variety of colors. Painting tips Here are tips for painting rooms, courtesy of PPG Paints: Make sure that all surfaces are clean, dry and free from contamination before painting. In flood-damaged homes, remove damaged drywall and make sure that appropriate mold and mildew remediation is done. After addressing mold and mildew, install fresh drywall. Apply a drywall primer or use paint with primer in it. For best results when using a paint-primer product on new or repaired areas, begin by spot coating the area with the paint to seal it, and then apply a full coat of paint. When painting new stucco or brick, the surfaces need to either cure for 30 days or be primed with a specialty alkali resistant primer before painting. See More Collapse Top colors Cool neutrals have been king for several years, but paint and color experts say that warmer grays - are the new neutral to embrace. Getting it right is important because the color will work with everything else in the room, setting the tone you want. For example, soft neutrals can be calming, bright colors bring energy. And there's nothing sexier in a bedroom that dark, intimate colors. "Grays will still be around, but we're definitely seeing a warmup to a taupe-ish gray," said Karrie Hodge, senior designer at Sherwin-Williams. She noted that so many people have invested in gray/cool flooring, counters and cabinets, so the color will be around for a while. While the pale Gray Screen is Sherwin-Williams' most popular color, Worldly Gray and Balanced Beige are both shades that come with contrasting undertones. Both can be described as gray-beige - or "greige" - colors. Paint colors generally are divided into warm or cool groups. If you're drawn to yellow, beige or brown, look for warmer colors or colors with warm undertones. Drawn to blues and greens? That means you prefer cooler colors such as gray. Magno cited these Benjamin Moore colors to consider: Pashmina, a midtone greige, or Edgecomb Gray, a warm gray. Chantilly Lace pairs as a trim color. From its lineup of historical colors is the popular Revere Pewter, a go-to gray that many Houston interior designers use. It pairs well with White Dove for trim, Magno said. Looking for something other than a neutral? Magno recommends Benjamin Moore's Silver Marlin (blue-green), Harbor Haze (paler green), Gentleman's Gray (teal) or Incense Stick (brown). Colors that pop If you're ready for something different, consider a bolder color. "The best way to transform a space is with paint because walls are the biggest space in a room, they cover the most space," Schlotter said. "If you go from off-white to any color, you're going to completely transform that space." Top colors in Houston from the Glidden group are Stewart House Brown, Clipper Ship Blue and Red Delicious. Afraid to go that bold inside your home? Try it on an accent wall or relegate it to your front door for a strong welcome. Sheen The sheen of your paint is about durability and light. The shinier it is, the more light it will reflect. Flat or eggshell finishes work well in living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms, but you'll want a semigloss for high-use areas, like a bathroom or kitchen. For trim, pick semi-gloss or high-gloss paints. Ask for help Don't overlook the advice you can get from paint-store professionals. They know what's popular and what's not. They can spot undertones in a heartbeat. If you like a color, ask them what they think. If you need help with trim, or sheen choice, they'll offer good advice there too. Court trials kicked off Monday as Harris County summoned hundreds of prospective jurors to temporary facilities downtown, resuming jury service for the first time since Hurricane Harvey's floods devastated Houston's justice system in late August. Five panels of prospective jurors - known in legal terms as veniremen - were shepherded to misdemeanor trials and a family law trial as the county opened a makeshift jury assembly room in the basement of the county administration building at 1001 Preston. "We had far more people appear than we were expecting," said civil judge Dan Hinde, who chairs a jury committee organized by state district judges. "We sent out jury summonses hoping to get 200 people and we had 328 appear." Hinde called it a "soft-opening" as officials work out the kinks of moving hundreds of people from the temporary jury assembly room to the temporary locations of courts now operating in locations spread around four different courthouses. The 20-story criminal courthouse at 1201 Franklin remains closed after taking on water during Harvey. Getting jury trials back on track involved first deciding, weeks ago, where to stage prospective jurors after the loss of the jury assembly room at 1201 Congress. The former jury assembly building, an $11 million underground facility completed in 2011, was destroyed in the floods. For now, county officials have revamped the cafeteria in the basement of the administration building and a large room on the first floor where prospective jurors can assemble as they wait to be assigned to court trials. The return to jury trials is a significant step means in getting the justice system back to full swing, capping weeks of stalemates in pending cases. Defense lawyers, who asked not to be named, said they have seen an increase in dismissals and plea deals as prosecutors faced an ever-growing backlog of cases with no way to go to trial. District Clerk Chris Daniel confirmed that dismissals are up, but said the statistics are not available as they are still being tallied . On Monday, there were some hiccups as misdemeanor judges requested jury panels, including an elevator that was stuck briefly between floors. Most veniremen said the experience was better than they expected. "It went well, but it was a long process," said Gayle Johnson, a 58-year-old northeast Harris county woman who was reporting for jury duty for the second time in two years. She said the process, understandably, took longer than last time. "It was the first day in a new place." Two waves of prospective jurors were expected Monday, one at 8 a.m. and one at 1 p.m. City Councilman Dwight Boykins was one of the prospective jurors called for the early round. After the panelists were taken to their courts, Boykins spoke to the hundreds of people who were not chosen and praised them for responding to the call for jury service. He also took the opportunity to tell them to keep city leaders apprised of how things are in their neighborhoods by calling 3-1-1. "We've got to get the debris up," Boykins said. "If you know of debris, not only in your neighborhood but on your main thoroughfare, just call the city. Call 3-1-1 and make a report." Firefighters rescue transient from manhole Emergency crews early Monday rescued a homeless man who said he was trapped inside a southwest Houston manhole for several days. Workers first spotted the man just before 2:30 a.m., while doing repairs in the area, in the 12100 block of Beltway 8, near Dover, according to a news release from the Houston Fire Department. It took firefighters about an hour to get the man out of the hole, which was between 10 and 12 feet deep, according to the news release. Firefighters used a harness to enter the hole and bring the man to safety. The man - who was living under a bridge in the area - initially told first responders he had been stuck inside the manhole for six days. Then, he said it had been since Friday, HFD spokeswoman Sheldra Brigham said. Regardless of the specifics, the man was underground for "a couple of days," Brigham said. Authorities did not release his name early Monday. Deputy shoots, kills motorcyclist after tense chase One man is dead after a Montgomery County Precinct 4 deputy shot him multiple times following what Houston Police Department officials describe as a tense chase and struggle early Monday afternoon. HPD is investigating the shooting with the help of the Texas Rangers and the Harris County District Attorney's office. According to police, the stop should have been routine and uneventful. But a police chase began after a Montgomery County deputy ran the license plate of a man's motorcycle shortly before 1:30 p.m. near Kingwood. The search returned an invalid license and the office attempted to pull the suspect over, but the motorcyclist fled. After a struggle at a car wash with a bystander, the suspect turned his attention toward another deputy and away from the man at the car wash. According to HPD, the man reached into his backpack during the struggle and pulled out a firearm. The officer then reached for his weapon and shot the suspect multiple times, according to police. The officer-involved shooting is under investigation by HPD. From staff and wire reports Jury trials kicked off Monday as Harris County officials summoned hundreds of prospective jurors to temporary facilities downtown, reactivating jury service for the first time since Hurricane Harvey's floods in late August crippled Houston's justice system. Five panels of prospective jurors - known in legal terms as veniremen - were shepherded to misdemeanor trials and a family law trial as court officials opened a makeshift jury assembly room in the basement of the county administration building at 1001 Preston. "We had far more people appear than we were expecting," said civil judge Dan Hinde, who chairs the jury committee organized by state district judges. "We sent out jury summonses hoping to get 200 people, and we had 328 appear." Hinde called it a "soft-opening" as officials work out the kinks of moving hundreds of people from the temporary jury assembly room to the temporary courts now operating in locations spread out among four different courthouses. The 20-story criminal courthouse at 1201 Franklin remains closed after taking on water during Harvey. Getting jury trials back on track involved first deciding, weeks ago, where to stage prospective jurors after the critical loss of the jury assembly room at 1201 Congress. The former jury assembly building, an $11 million underground facility completed in 2011 beneath a green space between a cluster of county buildings, was destroyed in the floods. For now, county officials have revamped the cafeteria in the basement of the administration building and a large room on the first floor where prospective jurors can assemble as they wait to be assigned to court trials. Increase in dismissals The return to jury trials is a significant first step in getting the justice system back to full operation, capping weeks of stalemates in pending cases. Defense lawyers, who asked not to be named, said they have seen an increase in dismissals and plea deals as prosecutors faced an ever-growing backlog of cases with no way to proceed to a jury trial. District Clerk Chris Daniel confirmed that case dismissals are up, but said the court statistics are not available as his staff is still conducting a tally. On Monday, there were some hiccups as misdemeanor judges requested jury panels, including an elevator that was stuck briefly between floors. Most veniremen said the experience was better than they expected. "It went well, but it was a long process," said Gayle Johnson, a 58-year-old northeast Harris County woman who was reporting for jury duty for the second time in two years. She said the process, understandably, took longer than last time. "It was the first day in a new place." Two waves of prospective jurors were summoned on Monday, the first at 8 a.m. and a second at 1 p.m. City Councilman Dwight Boykins was one of the prospective jurors called for the early round. After the panelists were taken to their courts, Boykins spoke to the hundreds of people who were not chosen and praised them for responding to the county's call for jury service. He also took the opportunity to tell them to keep city leaders apprised of how cleanup efforts are proceeding in their neighborhoods by calling 311, the city of Houston's non-emergency services number. Catching up "We've got to get the debris up," Boykins said. "If you know of debris, not only in your neighborhood but on your main thoroughfare, just call the city. Call 311 and make a report." Daniel, the district clerk, expressed optimism that the makeshift jury assembly room will help clear dockets. "By the end of October, we hope to be caught up on felony and misdemeanor courts," he said. "We'll have a lot of trials going forward to catch up on." State health department officials will give Harris County residents who need food assistance after Hurricane Harvey three more days to register, but advocacy groups still want more time and more convenient locations. Those seeking financial assistance under the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - also known as D-SNAP - will be able to register from Wednesday through Friday at the Alexander Deussen Park's Senior Center and Open Air Pavilion at 12303 Sonnier St. The single site will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Applicants must be in line by 7 p.m., the Texas Department of Health and Human Services announced Monday in a press release, though the agency warned that "due to high volumes of applicants, not all individuals in line at 7 p.m. will necessarily be served." The announcement comes more than a week after the program ended Oct. 6. D-SNAP provides qualifying families with cards that can be used to purchase food and drinks but not alcohol or tobacco. Advocacy groups had previously called on state lawmakers and HHS to extend the program for at least two weeks, citing the experiences of many residents who said they waited for in line for hours at various registration sites in Harris County only to be turned away. The Metropolitan Organization previously requested a longer extension of the program and said its various church and nonprofit organizations would not be able to fulfill the needs of the thousands they said could miss out on D-SNAP benefits if the program is not extended. In a statement Monday, TMO said it was pleased by news of the three-day extension but also said the new location might not be accessible to many people. TMO said it would call Tuesday for more locations throughout the county. More than 932,000 people have been served at such sites in Harris County, HHS said Monday. The agency also noted that the state will have offered D-SNAP for 18 days when the program closes Friday. Normally, the agency said, the program is offered for up to seven days. Those who qualify for the program receive benefits on a Lone Star Card, which is normally used to provide food stamps under the Texas' regular SNAP program. To qualify for D-SNAP benefits, a family must live in a county declared a federal disaster area, have experienced loss of income or home and not receive regular SNAP food benefits. Families then receive amounts equal to two months of the maximum SNAP benefits for their household size, which range from $192 a month for one person to $760 for a family of five, plus $144 for each additional person. Deborah Dyner, 59, formerly of Albany, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 3. A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 21 at Flinn Block Hall, 222 W First Avenue, in downtown Albany. Melva J. Fancher, 87, of Lebanon, passed away Wednesday, October 11th. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on November 11 at Southside Church of Christ in Lebanon. Huston-Jost Funeral Home is handling arrangements. James Erwin Pearce, 80, of Sweet Home passed away. Memorial service will be 1 p.m. on Saturday October 21, 2017 at Sweet Home VFW. Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements. www.sweethomefuneral.com. Jean Warren, 82, of Albany died Thursday at Samaritan Evergreen Hospice House. A funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday at St. Marys Catholic Church. Fisher Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Mayor Sylvester Turner plans to ask city council on Wednesday to sidestep the voter-imposed revenue cap by approving the same property tax rate as last year. According to City Controller Chris Brown, the city would need to cut the property tax rate by about one fifth of one cent to comply with the revenue cap. The difference would mean about $7 next year to the average Houston homeowner, but the potential political damage to Turner could be much more. Council must set the tax rate at its Wednesday meeting, but no specific rate was listed on the council agenda and no explanatory backup material was provided to council members until Monday night. Several council members, informed of Brown's Monday afternoon memo outlining the mayor's plan, responded with an incredulous, "What?" The information angered the mayor's critics and confused his allies on the council a week before voters begin heading to the polls to consider a crucial $1 billion bond that would cement Turner's landmark pension reforms and another $495 million in city improvement bonds. To comply with the revenue cap, Brown said, the council would need to set the tax rate at 58.421 cents per $100 of assessed value, not leave it at last year's 58.642 cents. The difference to the city general fund, he estimated, is $7.9 million. "I'd love to think of it as a misunderstanding," Councilman David Robinson said. "Conspicuously on the agenda today it was not disclosed, so it certainly raised a lot of questions. Call it, what - $8 million? It sounds like a very small amount to have a standoff about." Turner had proposed a temporary 9 percent property tax rate hike to cover Hurricane Harvey-related costs, then cut that proposal in half when the federal government agreed to cover a larger share of expenses. He then scrapped it entirely late last month after Gov. Greg Abbott provided $50 million in state disaster funds. The city would "continue to operate under the rev cap," the mayor said at the time, referring to the 13-year-old, voter-imposed rule that limits what the city can collect in property taxes. Rising property values have forced City Council to cut the tax rate every year since 2014 to avoid collecting more revenue than the cap allows. The mayor's proposed rate increase was possible because Harvey placed the city under a federal disaster declaration, and would by law last only one year. Turner's spokesman Alan Bernstein said Monday afternoon that the mayor's proposal to leave the rate flat did not rely on invoking the disaster declaration language, but hours later acknowledged that clause is the basis for keeping the same rate. "The mayor clearly said at this meeting, the press conference with the governor and everybody, 'We are not going to be invoking the disaster clause,'" Brown said late Monday. "So, now they're saying they're going to do it. OK, they can do that. My opposition is not if they do it or don't, my opposition is that they do it and nobody knows about it." A Monday evening memo from interim finance director Tantri Emo said the charter not only allows the mayor to invoke the disaster clause to collect an extra $7.9 million for Harvey expenses, but also provides no process by which Brown is required to verify the tax rate. Therefore, Bernstein added, it is not relevant that Brown cannot verify the city's estimated $1.1 billion in general fund damages from Harvey before federal and insurance reimbursements. "Since he can't independently validate them, he's not counting them," Bernstein said. "Well, we're counting them, and we feel like he's not interpreting this all correctly. We're certainly not busting the tax cap. The mayor disagrees with the controller's conclusion." Brown agreed that council can set a tax rate without his validation, but noted the controller's office has issued a memo verifying the tax rate for more than a decade. Councilman Dave Martin, informed of Brown's memo and Turner's plan, gave an exasperated sigh. "Why is he going there?" Councilman Mike Knox said he has been asking Turner's staff for days what rate the mayor planned to propose without success. "He's trying to box us in to a position where we have to vote for something and it has to be what he wants," he said. "If it's something beyond the limits of our tax cap, without further information I'm going to have to vote no on that." Knox, a conservative, said many voters on the westside and in Kingwood are upset the mayor floated a tax hike in the first place, and will not welcome any adjustment to what the cap dictates. "I don't know why he'd bring up a tax increase weeks before a general election when he wants to pass a pension bond," Knox said. "I don't understand why he would do that." It could have been a movie. Two years after Principal Bertie Simmons returned to Furr High School in 2000, a gang fight broke out. There were punches thrown and trash cans hurled. The assistant principals tried to send about 30 students involved to an alternative school. Simmons disagreed. Instead, the feisty principal offered to take the gangsters to New York City to see Ground Zero if they would promise to give up fighting. Simmons stood up for these students when no one else did. Now the community needs to stand up for her. Simmons has been temporarily relieved of her duties on such sketchy grounds the district should be embarrassed. She supposedly violated district uniform policy and the 5-foot-tall, 83-year-old principal is alleged to have threatened a student with a bat. Insert eye roll here. When the district suspends a high-performing principal for a minor transgression it sends a loud message: Compliance trumps performance. After an outcry from students and parents, Houston ISD Superintendent Richard Carranza announced that investigators are now looking into a second set of "pretty serious" misconduct allegations. In all likelihood, the district is combing through Simmons' emails and interviewing teachers and others searching for an impropriety. "Show me the man, and I'll find you the crime" is a tactic used in Stalinist Russia. All HISD employees must now be watching their backs. There's no other way to put this. This decision smells of political meddling. And this is the wrong time for the board of trustees to be engaged in that. The district could be taken over by the state as early as next year. In this environment, it's particularly important that decisions about hiring and firing be made on merit, not to please some trustee who wants to build a stable of loyal principals. Simmons has accomplished what few in HISD has managed to do. She's turned a failing high school around. Gangs used to rule Furr. Now they don't. Student achievement has come up. Last year on her own, Simmons applied to and won a $10 million grant from a contest sponsored by Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. Meanwhile more than a dozen schools are on the district's "improvement required" blacklist. How many HISD principals have been fired for failing to achieve educational outcomes? Carranza should answer all questions surrounding the suspension of this beloved principal quickly and forthrightly. Simmons has a reputation for always putting the students first. The district does not. Simmons' story at Furr should indeed be a movie, one with a happy ending. Seventeen years ago, the Harris County Criminal Justice Center opened to a warm welcome from the criminal justice community. The regal 20-story structure, where Harris County's criminal justice system would be under one roof for the first time in decades, was predicted to create huge efficiencies. Unfortunately, that welcome and hopes for the building's potential were short-lived. The justice center has been flooded yet again. It's time to scrap it and start over. The $95 million building opened January 2000. It has been flooded on two occasions: Tropical Storm Allison in 2001 and most recently by Hurricane Harvey. The rising storm waters in one of the lowest parts of downtown Houston caused significant damage and extended closures of the building after Allison. The complete criminal justice system was disrupted. The courts, district attorney's office, pretrial services and all the administrative offices serving them in this building had to be relocated. Trials were delayed resulting in longer jail stays for defendants. Since these defendants are presumed innocent until proved guilty, delays expose the county to civil rights claims for wrongful pretrial incarceration. To get it up and running cost taxpayers $19 million. After Allison, the justice center re-opened with redesigned power delivery systems with hopes that any future floods, anticipated as a post-Allison certainty, would spare our community another building closure. Hurricane Harvey dashed those hopes. The entire county criminal justice system is shut down yet again. All of the civil, family and probate district courts have doubled up with other courts to make enough room for the Criminal District Courts to move into the Civil Justice Center. The County Criminal Courts at Law have moved into the shuttered Family Law Center, two courts per courtroom. Repairs are estimated to take up to nine months. The backlog in cases and trials will take years to bring current. The Harris County District Attorney's office has been forced to lease space in at least two separate locations, at least one of them not even in downtown Houston. In addition to the closures, it is now common knowledge that our criminal justice center was not designed to properly handle the daily flow of people in this building. The building was built with a 50-year life cycle that by many accounts was reached in 2010 due to extensive county population growth, increased case filings and the necessary processes it takes to adjudicate them. Virtually every day there are long lines of jurors, defendants, witnesses and famiies waiting just to enter the building. There is a better way. Harris County has at its disposal $70 million in bonds dedicated for a Family Law Center. With another $40 million to $50 million the county can build a Criminal Justice Center and adequately address the specter of future flooding, elevator and ingress issues. The Civil Justice Center was built for $119 million and has escaped the issues plaguing the criminal courts. No land purchase is required as the county can raze the old Family Law Center and District Attorney building and use the city block at that location to build the new Criminal Justice Center. The current criminal justice center should be remodeled into a county office building. As a working administrative office, the ingress/egress issues encountered at the Criminal Justice Center will not occur. If and, unfortunately, when it floods again, disruption to the criminal justice process in Harris County and to the citizens who rely upon an effective, fair criminal justice process, will be minimized. Repairing the building as a courthouse is akin to putting a Band-Aid on a severed artery. There is no shame in admitting that the problem-plagued criminal justice center was a mistake from the beginning. There were errors in planning, design and execution. Our Commissioners Court should stop spending money on a building that will never work for the purpose it was intended and spend our money on a permanent fix. Tritico is a Houston attorney. Houston took the top prize Monday night in Missouris annual Community Betterment Contest. A Houston delegation received the grand prize news at the 54th annual Missouri Community Betterment Conference in Columbia. Houston also won first place in its population category. Houston vied for honors in its population category during a banquet this evening at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center. Competing in Houstons category were Buffalo, St. James, Fayette and Lathrop. Statewide, 23 communities earned visits from judges. Two judges toured Houston on Sept. 11 and learned more about Houston projects included in this years entry: Melba Theatre renovation. Houston Community Betterment and YOUTH, address numbering project. Rutherford Park expansion. Creation of Rascalz, a teen club and community center on Grand Avenue. Bicycle safety program aimed at elementary students. This years theme was Rural Progress and Pride. The keynote speaker was Deb Brown, who discussed Rural Innovative Business Models. Houston volunteers Elaine and Delbert Campbell and Jim and Wilda McNiell organized a game that was part of the program on Sunday night. Since 1975, Houston has won community recognition 27 times, including first place nine times. In 2004, the town won the grand prize as Community of the Year. A $100 bill recently used in a transaction at a Houston business belongs more on the silver screen than in a legitimate cash register. Houston Police Chief Tim Ceplina said a counterfeit $100 bill was received at Caseys General Store on South Sam Houston Blvd. Imprinted on the fake note are the words replica (in two places) and this note is not legal, it is to be used in motion pictures. When you see a scene in a movie where theres money blowing all over a street or something like that, this is whats being used, Ceplina said. It looks sort of real, but its not. In addition to being clearly marked as not being real, the pretend $100 bill is slick to the touch. It was seized as evidence. Ceplina said store management thought the bill was likely taken in sometime after 11 p.m. Sunday. Surveillance video will be viewed in an attempt to determine who passed the phony money. The incident was the second in a week involving counterfeit cash in Houston, as a police officer investigated a fake $10 bill received Oct. 10 at Town and Country Supermarket. Ceplina said Houston police have now investigated seven reports of fake money so far in 2017. Its crucial that anyone receiving cash at a business be keenly aware at all times, he said. I would say to inspect all currency. Look at your money; check its texture, its color and everything about it. We recommend that people use counterfeit detecting pens, and contact us whenever something looks wrong. The HPDs phone number is 417-967-3348. Houston Police Chief Tim Ceplina said theres a government website available with instructions about authenticating U.S. currency. It contains information about what to look for and what steps to take when fake money is identified. Log onto www.uscurrency.gov. June 6, 1948 October 7, 2017 Weldon was born in Waynesboro, Virginia on June 6, 1948, to Andrew and Lillie Mae (Miller) Burkholder and went to his heavenly home October 7, 2017, after a battle with leukemia. He was a graduate of Broadway High School in Virginia, Linn-Benton Community College and Oregon State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. He accepted Christ as his personal savior as a youth of nine years and was a life-long member of Fairview Mennonite Church where he held numerous leadership positions. Right out of high school, Weldon traveled to Oregon by himself and worked for two years with troubled youth at the Children's Farm Home near Corvallis. This sparked his interest in encouraging and investing in people, especially young people. For 28 years, along with his wife, Judy, he was director of the church's youth camp. He served on the operation board of the Mennonite Village in Albany for over 20 years, serving as chairman for a number of years. He also served on their Foundation Board. At one point in his life, he co-owned a custom cabinet shop. In the 70's and 80's, he worked for Autumn Seed Company, traveling to Canada, China, New Zealand and much of the east coast. He started helping his father-in-law, Kenneth Krabill, farm and then continued upon his retirement. He very much enjoyed learning the ins and outs of farming and now his sons Kent and Kirk continue to work the farm full-time. He was so looking forward to his grandchildren helping in the summertime. As a small boy he developed an interest in sheep and has passed on this interest to his grandchildren. He also participated in and provided lambs for the church's Christmas Pageant for 25 years. His love for adventure, particularly travel, was obvious early on. The winter before starting college, he traveled throughout Australia, New Zealand and the Fiji Islands during a six-month period covering 40,000 miles. Later in life, he traveled to West Africa, Peru and Central America on mission trips and to New Zealand several more times. He was able to visit six of the seven continents. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping, with a fishing trip to Togiak, Alaska being a highlight. He is survived by wife of 47 years Judy (Krabill); sons Kent and wife Heidi and Kirk and wife Amanda; eight grandchildren; brothers and sisters Ray and wife Martha of Harrisonburg, Virginia, Sarah Burkholder and husband Dave Kratowicz of Indianapolis, Indiana, Vera and husband Claude Gibson of Stuarts Draft, Virginia, and Clifford and wife Marilyn of Waynesboro, Virginia. His parents preceded him to heaven. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on October 21 at the Fairview Mennonite Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in care of the funeral home to the Santiam Christian Schools FFA program or the Mennonite Village Capital Fund. AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling the arrangements (www.aasum-dufour.com). Veterinarians and volunteers with Humane Society International/Mexico provided food, vaccines and emergency treatment to 2,645 animals, including companion and farm animals, in Chiapas State this week. To date, HSIs veterinarians and volunteers have helped care for more than 6,200 animals in Mexico in Mexico City and the states of Morelos, Oaxaca, Puebla and Chiapas (the five entities affected by the earthquakes). In Chiapas, the teams visited Villaflores, Jiquipilas and Arriaga among other municipalities. over seven days. Dr. Claudia Edwards, DVM, HSI/Mexico programs director, said: Despite the geographical and transport issues facing many of the states residents, the people of Chiapas responded to our veterinary clinics. We are thankful for the support of 25 volunteer veterinarians from the Chiapas Veterinary College and veterinary students who helped people and their animals. It is sad to see so much devastation after the earthquakes, but its also very inspiring to see this amount of solidarity and eagerness to help. On the last day a little girl rushed towards me, gave me a big hug and said: thanks so much for all you do for animals. It was so rewarding! Support our International Disaster Relief Fund. The earthquakes response since mid-September was a joint effort supported by Lets Help Mexico (Ayudemos a Mexico, a platform through which various organizations collected food and supplies), IFAW, Mexico City Environment General Attorney and the Chiapas Civil Protection Agency. Several local organizations also supported the efforts, including Defensoria Animal, Koncientizando, Presencia Animal, Proyecto Nenuki, Centro de Rehabilitacion para Perros y Gatos, Totem Animal, El Croqueton, AFAD, PRODAN, Cultura Perrona, Alianza Hope Mx, Adopciones AntyMob, Topos K9, Amigos Pro-Animal, independent activists, and volunteers from Guadalajara University, the Veterinary School of Chiapas Autonomous University and Chiapas Veterinary College (CONVEPECH), among others. Since the powerful September 7 earthquake shook Oaxaca and the subsequent September 19 earthquake hit Mexico City, HSI/Mexico set up temporary veterinary clinics in cities and towns throughout the affected areas that had the highest need for emergency veterinary care. Petsy, Mars and Cargill donated 14 tons of animal food, which HSI distributed in the affected areas. Salud y Bienestar Animal, CEVA, BIOFARVET, PISA, MERIAL and APALCHEM donated veterinary supplies. Bimbo and Estafeta helped with transportation of both animal food and vet supplies. The geographical distribution of animals helped is: Mexico City: 1,321 Oaxaca: 1,350 Puebla: 147 Morelos: 805 Chiapas: 2,645 Total since Sept. 16: 6,268 Media Contact: Raul Arce-Contreras, rcontreras@humanesociety.org, +1 240-620-3263 HET This blog is a transcript of a speech given by Andrew Neil at the Holocaust Educational Trust Annual Appeal Dinner in London on Monday 16 October, and has been edited for clarity It is interesting as we are here tonight, that you might think the work of the Holocaust Educational Trust would have become less important, that we have never been more aware of the dangers of racism and discrimination, of the need for people to be treated properly and yet I will argue with you tonight, that it is now more important than ever, that it is actually needed more than it has been before, because the scourge of antisemitism, which is always with us, is changing. We need to meet it now on a broader front and it is growing not just more dangerous but more insidious. And if you accept that, you will accept that the Trust's work is far from done. Advertisement When I was growing up, the obvious antisemites were the knuckle draggers in the National Front in this country, what was left of the KKK in America, the Holocaust denier like Jean-Marie Le Pen. Now these people and their kind are still around but they are more marginal than they have been and they are less significant than they have been. They have not gone away, they are still there, but they do not matter as much. What has surprised me, for I think it was entirely unpredictable, was that the new development in this area is the rise of antisemitism on the far left. And that is more dangerous, than the knuckle-dragging right. I don't say for a moment that the far right is no longer a problem. We have seen the neo-Nazi nutters in Charlottesville in America and it is clearly a problem when the President of the United States, the president of the greatest democracy in the world, cannot bring himself, unequivocally to condemn these neo-Nazi nutters in Charlottesville. That shames the United States, a country I love. And yet it is remarkable that's what has happened. Now I know that reading history is not Mr Trump's strong point, indeed I am not sure that reading is his strong point, but you do think that somebody in the White House would have told him what the bad guys were called in the Second World War. I don't say that the antisemitism of the left is entirely new. Those of you who know your history of Soviet Russia will know that it is not new, that there is a strain of antisemitism that has always run through parts of the British intellectual left. But I believe that it is more prevalent, that it is on the rise, and that it is given far too easy a pass. It gets away with it in the way that the antisemitism of the far right is not allowed to get away with it. Advertisement Now serious academic studies illustrate what I mean or provide the evidence. The study by the University of Oslo concluded that in Europe, the main rise of antisemitism was now from Islamisists as you would expect but also from the left. But it is not just academic studies; it is also obvious from casual observation. At the Labour Conference, in a fringe meeting, but official enough to be on the official programme of the Labour Party Conference, one person - a chair of the fringe meeting - asked "We demand the right to debate 'Holocaust: Yes or No'". What did he mean, 'Holocaust: Yes or No?': 'Yes or No, it happened?'; 'Yes or No, it's a good or bad thing?'; 'Yes or No, we should have another go at it?' Why ask 'Yes or No?' at a mainstream political party on the Holocaust? And yet he did. And the people involved are still members of the Labour Party. We have the former Labour mayor of this city, intentionally linking Zionism in Germany in the 1930s with the Nazis based on the ramblings of an obscure Trotskyite historian. We know what he was doing; there can be no bigger insult to link Zionism with Nazi Germany or the Jews with Nazi Germany. We know what he was doing, it is clear as night follows day. But he is still regarded as a respectable politician in this country. So why is this happening? I think there are a number of reasons why this is taking place. The far left and the far right live and breathe conspiracy theories and if you deal in conspiracy theories, sooner or later the Jews come into the frame. That is how it works. And conspiracy theories have been given a fresh life and a fresh reach in the world of fake news in the social media. It was Mark Twain who said that "the truth has barely got its boots on before a lie is halfway round the world" and that is what is happening today. Now it's not obviously just antisemitism, but this is the very climate, the atmosphere in which antisemitism survives and indeed prospers. It means that never before has there been a greater importance of robust independent well-financed journalism to deal with these conspiracy theories and the fake news that so quickly take root. Advertisement And I think another reason why we are in this strange world of the far left and antisemitism growing is that there is a reluctance on the left to criticise radical Islam. I don't mean Islam, I mean Islamism. There is a reluctance and therefore if you are not prepared to criticise what is the main source of antisemitism in the world today, then you may have trouble realising just how serious it is. And then of course on the left, as there is on the hard right, a dislike of Israel. Not just a dislike of Israel, a hatred of Israel, and when the hatred, when it turns into hatred beyond normal criticism of foreign policy at a state's conduct, which we are all free to do and which every country must be subject to, when it turns to hatred, you and I know that when hatred is in the vanguard, antisemitism flourishes. And related to that, it has become a cover because since the Holocaust, obviously antisemitism is no longer respectable. It was in the 1930s, it was in the 1920s, the Holocaust obviously changed that. But anti-Zionism on the left is respectable and quite often that is used as a cover. And finally, and I think in a way, most dangerous of all because it encompasses many countries and many parts of the world, and it includes the far left and the far right, is the rise of authoritarianism, from the Kremlin to Caracas, across the Maghreb, into the Levant and beyond to the Gulf, there is a rise of authoritarianism. In Europe there is a rise of authoritarian parties, mainstream parties struggle to maintain their position. And when authoritarianism is on the rise, intolerance is on the rise. The failure of the Arab Spring, one of the great failures of modern times, resulted in probably a greater authoritarianism than before. That brings its own dangers from the far left and the far right. I do not argue with you tonight that democracy on its own is enough to repel antisemitism, look at France today or even the growth in attacks on our synagogues in this country. But democracy is a necessary first condition if we are to deal with it. Where democracy is in retreat, antisemitism will generally be on the rise. The antiseptic, the daylight of democracy keeps it in check, it puts it on the defensive, it makes it accountable, it makes it possible to deal with. Whereas in authoritarian societies that is not the case, indeed it may well be encouraged by the authorities. Advertisement So there is a confluence of forces at work that make the work of the Trust needed more than ever. Because the job of the Trust is to remind us, by reminding us of the Holocaust where antisemitism ends up. It ends up in the concentration camps of eastern Europe. Now I know it's not the only genocide in world history, all of them are a stain on mankind. But other genocides, they did have some kind of rational grotesqueness too them. It was about territory, invasion, resources, revenge, or often just the mindless barbaric fury of people. That was not the case with the Holocaust which I think, not just in scale, but in operation and even in motivation, makes it unique. You know it wasn't mindless barbaric fury, the Nazis discovered that there was still one Jewish couple living in the north of Norway. They sent a whole group of SS people to get that one family, to bring that family. They did not even kill that family when they got to Norway; they brought the family back, this Jewish family from Norway so that it could experience the full horrors of the Holocaust. That is not mindless barbaric fury, that is something else, it is absurd, it is illogical but it also happened in what was the best educated nation on earth that then put its education and its resources to the industrialisation of mass murder. It had never happened before. So this Trust, that we are here to honour and help finance tonight, reminds us of where antisemitism leads, how it happens and the more we know about it, the more we will make sure, it will never happen again. We have an obligation to make sure that future generations know what happened in the Holocaust because it is my view and I have still enough faith in mankind that if future generations know, they will say in every land, at every continent of every race and every creed, we will say with one voice: "Never ever again, never ever again". Avoiding risky romance in our online world In today's world of online dating, we have to trust that the person we're talking to online is who they say they are. With the rise of dating websites and apps, we find ourselves fighting through a sea of webcam spammers and bots using various guises. According to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, a total of 3,889 victims were defrauded out of 39 million from online dating fraud in 2016. It's big business. And dating fraud can come in different forms. Sextortion is the newest of the online dating fraud scams using webcams. An evolution of blackmail through obtaining intimate photos, these fake profiles tempt the user into webcam sessions and records them. The user thinks they are talking to a real person, but this is a pre-recorded video being controlled by the fraudster. These scams use most social media platforms, not just dating ones. Blackmail follows with threats of posting these intimate images online if money is not transferred. Advertisement The most common frauds are the '419' scams. Started in Africa, they now operate worldwide and these scams also aim to get your money. These scammers are or have experts in psychological manipulation at their disposal. Smaller scams involving individuals are surfacing in the UK. The CPS recently convicted a 29-year-old from Portsmouth, posing as a woman to con men out of money, claiming 'she' needed help with mortgage payments. My experience and that of thousands of others didn't involve money at all. It seems these catfish are lesser known but cause just as much emotional damage. Their motives come in many forms but mainly it's from a sexual perspective. It's unlikely they will ever meet their target but we seem to have a new breed of catfish, like mine, who are coming offline to pursue the relationships they create in the flesh. How to protect yourself Knowledge is power. Being aware that these scams (and individuals) exist is the most important thing. It will put you on guard when you come across anything that is mirroring these types of situations. There are however, common tactics used by most catfish. You can help get through the minefield by checking out a few red flags. Advertisement Photos that look familiar, staged or too perfect probably are. They're likely actors or catalogue shots. Run them through a search engine like Tineye or Google reverse image search. If it comes back showing the photo on lots of other websites, it has been used elsewhere and isn't a personal image. ID verification tools such as Yoti now exist to check people are who they say they are, but until this type of verification becomes the norm there are still accounts that will slip through the net. If the other person asks to move the conversation away from the platform early on, this could be a warning sign. Dating platforms have software to detect current trends in conversation of bots and scammers, so fraudsters will try to get you to chat elsewhere to avoid detection. The profiles of catfish (or messages sent on social media) tend to be very full, including information of their hopes of the relationship they seek from start to finish. If they repeatedly say how loyal, genuine and trustworthy they are, or that they're looking for a soulmate and someone to marry, this should alert you. Genuine profiles should be more lighthearted and may include just a few words about the type of person they're looking for. Too much information is just too much. If you do start chatting, they may start 'love bombing'. This is the technique used to attract and hook the target. It has been taken from the well documented and longstanding manipulation tactics used by real emotional abusers. When vulnerable, it works. Things will seem to move very quickly and targets are bombarded with attention and affection. They will focus on you and share very little about themselves. Asking for money will soon follow if they are a scammer. They may be subtle or outright. But anyone asking for money that you haven't met in person is not someone to be chatting with. They play on kind people, and anyone who is genuinely looking for love and companionship will not start asking you for any amount of money. Advertisement Similarly, anyone asking for intimate photos, videos or webcams before you meet would be considered disrespectful of someone really interested in a proper relationship. It may start with them asking for 'sexy chat' but could progress quickly into them asking for more. Dedicated followers of the international higher education agenda may have read that MillionPlus, the Association for Modern Universities in the UK and Australia's Regional Universities Network, chaired by Professor Greg Hill of the University of the Sunshine Coast, have signed an agreement to establish a new co-operative partnership. Based on shared ambitions and a recognition of the key role that our universities play in adding value to their local communities, MillionPlus and RUN will work to develop greater understanding of higher education, research and innovation policy in Australia and the UK and promote the contribution of universities to regional development. While there are vast differences in the weather and climate between the UK and Australia, higher education policy in the countries is broadly aligned. This is mirrored by the fact that MillionPlus and RUN universities share many of the same core principles. Our missions, while separated by thousands of miles geographically, are a close match. Advertisement We share a commitment, first and foremost, to our students. Many of them are the first in their family to enter higher education. We're deeply proud and united on the fact that our universities open doors to individuals of all age groups who, a generation ago, might not have been able to study for a degree. At my university, London South Bank, and at the other modern universities in MillionPlus, we are surrounded daily by students full of talent, passion and drive. We share a commitment to world-class research, to translational research and enterprise that make a real difference to people's lives, their livelihoods and that of the business communities and public-sector organisations with which we engage. A research brochure published by RUN, sums it up perfectly: "regionally embedded, globally engaged." In key disciplines such as agriculture (worth 12% of Australia's GDP); biological and earth sciences; and nursing and other health sciences, research at RUN universities is ranked at the highest international standards in the Excellence in Research for Australia assessment, nearly a third of it funded by industry sources. Here in the UK, over half of the research produced by modern universities is judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent. As a barometer of how far we have come, modern universities now receive 10 times the level of research income from outside the UK than they did in 1992. Advertisement Our member universities share a commitment to drive growth and investment in our localities and to serve as anchors of our communities. Our universities are primary actors in their local economies, creating jobs, generating revenue and boosting industry. Every one of our members, across Australia and the UK, recognises the huge importance of 'place', acknowledging the symbiotic relationship between a university and its region. Higher education is the subject of reform in both the UK and Australia and we believe that this partnership will help us to leverage our collective expertise and work with our respective governments to deliver change in the best interest of students, universities and society. This agreement is the first of its kind and evidences the willingness of our universities to work together to help shape the policy debate and its outcomes. K M Asad via Getty Images The systematic violent targeting and forced displacement of Myanmar's Rohingya Muslims has been described by the United Nations as "a textbook example of ethnic cleansing." So far the international community has answered with a textbook response. Since the end of August more than half a million Rohingya have fled Rakhine state and into Bangladesh. This amounts to the largest displacement of people in such a short period of time since the Rwandan genocide. At least hundreds have been killed and an estimated 214 villages have been destroyed in a scorched-earth campaign; it is highly likely that as more information becomes available these numbers will rise considerably. Those who have escaped recount stories of massacres, gang rapes, torture, and looting. Advertisement The atrocities are neither spontaneous nor surprising. It is an organised campaign of violence being carried out by the Myanmar military. Moreover, they were predictable and indeed were predicted. These crimes are the violent expression of decades long efforts to stigmatise, delegitimise, and dehumanise Muslims in the country. The Rohingya have been stripped of their citizenship and their rights, subjected to nationwide attack online and in the press, and the Myanmar state has aided and abetted the creation non-state armed vigilante groups. State-owned media does not report attacks on the Rohingya and political rhetoric presents the Muslim minority as trouble making outsiders. These are textbook patterns that too often precede identity-based mass violence. For at least half a decade, the Rohingya have been identified as one of the world's populations most vulnerable to the threat of atrocity crimes including genocide.The last few years have seen an escalation in the scale and frequency of attacks against the group. In 2016 over 80,000 Rohingya fled violence which the UN said very likely amounted to crimes against humanity. 25,000 Rohingya refugees fled in boats to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Hundreds drowned along the way. We knew what was happening and what was likely to happen so why was this textbook example of ethnic cleansing not prevented? Could the British government have done anything differently? Advertisement In 2005 the UN member states unanimously acknowledged the shared responsibility to protect people around the world from the gravest crimes; from genocide, ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. Successive governments in the UK since 2005 have reiterated their commitment to this shared responsibility. The UK stands firm in its rhetorical commitment to learn the lessons of the Holocaust, and of the international failure to prevent genocide and ethnic cleansing in Bosnia, Rwanda, and Sudan. Just last weekend, the Conservative Party launched its Declaration Against Genocide and Identity-Based Violence - a strong document that acknowledges the challenge as a party priority but one that stands above politics. But in practice, what is the UK doing? The current crisis comes at a time when the international community is distracted by nuclear war games, an appalling hurricane season and a US leadership bent on withdrawing from multilateral diplomacy. Here in the UK we are just emerging from a tense party conference season. As both Labour and the Conservatives continue to wrestle with their own identity crises, and the direction of the UK's EU exist is chewed over, the question of how to protect people on the other side of the world from mass violence risks slipping from the agenda already. The UK's incoherent and tardy position on Myanmar is a reminder that the UK has no clear policy on atrocity prevention nor any institutional process that can guide its response. One massive problem is that the prevention of these kinds of crimes is still not viewed in the UK as a distinct global challenge. It may sound technical but the UK's responsibilities to prevent identity-based violence and to protect people from atrocities fall between the cracks of conflict prevention, tackling violent extremism, and international development. While two thirds of these grave crimes occur during armed conflict, the rest-including the atrocities taking place in Myanmar-do not. This is because there is no office, cabinet portfolio, or mechanism in UK policy making charged with assessing if and how the UK can better predict and prevent mass atrocities. Any such mechanism responsible for looking at UK policymaking through an 'atrocity prevention lens' would have alerted others to the warning signs emerging from Myanmar and initiated a process of sharing information, scrutinising Government policy, and communicating with other atrocity prevention stakeholders here in the UK and abroad. It could have provided advice gathered from previous cases and monitored indicators of risk. Advertisement The absence of a clear atrocity prevention strategy also leads to confusion over where responsibility lies within UK government to prevent. Is it a Foreign Office issue or one of international development? The answer, of course, is that the responsibility to learn and uphold the lessons of the Holocaust, of Srebrenica, of Rwanda apply to us all -and are incumbent upon all government departments. The UK has not adopted this whole of government approach in its Myanmar policy and thus it has been inconsistent and, from the perspective of the Rohingya, ineffective. Concern expressed by the UK representatives at the UN was not, for example, matched by the UK's strategy to support British business in Myanmar and expand trade relationships. Considering whether policies enhance or impede the protection of people from these appalling crimes would assist the UK government in developing a more consistent, joined up approach to upholding its own stated commitments. While it will take time, resources -and a political climate not dominated by Brexit and political party infighting- to properly restructure the UK's approach to atrocity prevention, there are more immediate measures that can help stem the violence and ensure the UK centres its response to the atrocities within the context of its responsibility to prevent and protect -rather than simply viewing the crisis in binary humanitarian terms. Even if its driving force is political, widespread anti-Muslim prejudice is at the heart of the crisis. discrimination, persecution, and violent attack on Muslims is now widely perceived in Myanmar as being acceptable. This atmosphere of impunity aids and abets further escalations of identity-based violence. At the same time, there are medium and longterm risks of resentment and radicalisation increasing within the Rohingya population. While the recruitment among the displaced to violent extremist groups should not be exaggerated, ongoing violence against Muslims does increase the risk of reprisals. Moreover, failure by the international community to protect another Muslim minority will be weaponised by those who promote a world view of a Christian West pitched against an Islamic East. Advertisement DfID pledges to up its aid are to be commended but it is vital that the UK prioritise tackling the root processes that facilitate and perpetuate identity-based violence as well as alleviating the most immediate humanitarian needs. This means championing inter-communal dialogue, monitoring hate speech, grievances and rumour, and building trust with the local communities. First and foremost, the violence must end and aid and international observers be given full, unrestricted access to effected areas. The UK can play a central role in this; with global leadership is in a state of flux and given Britain's historical relationship with Myanmar, this plight of the Rohingya can be seen as a test case for what a 'Global Britain' outside of the EU might look like. Rosemary Calvert via Getty Images Theresa May's and David Davies's hasty excursion to Brussels comes as the Office of National Statistics issues revisions to the "Blue Book" of national accounts showing the UK is worth 490billion less than previously thought. Just two weeks after Boris Johnson boasted at Tory Conference that we would need to build another Channel Tunnel because trade will be so great after Brexit, it sounds instead like it might do better as a quick exit for the money and businesses leaving our shores. Advertisement The fall in estimated net wealth is so great it means Britain has again become a net debtor nation and has destroyed the claims of ministers, such as Liam Fox, that "despite Brexit" foreign investment into the UK is soaring. In fact there was a net disinvestment from Britain in the first half of 2017, though it is not clear if that was overseas owners selling up and getting out, or British-based investors looking for a post-Brexit investment haven overseas. In the circumstances it should be little wonder that Mrs May and Mr Davies have pitched up in Brussels with what appears to be a stash of new offers aimed at to enticing the European Commission into recommending to heads of government that Britain's exit negotiations should move on to including future trade deals. Without trade there is no hope of reversing the decline. October is traditionally the month of reassessment. Everyone is back from their holidays, and Christmas is still a long way off. The days are shortening and the nights getting colder. Time to shed illusions and dig in for the winter ahead. Advertisement And this month the signs are that businesses, previously reluctant to show their hand, are indeed planning for the consequences of Brexit. The nuclear industry - where Britain was once the undisputed world leader in civil power generation and then reprocessing - is on the move, relocating key assets out of the UK, Vauxhall's new owners have postponed any new investment at Ellesmere Port pending clarity on Britain's future relationship with the EU and even the supermarkets, the companies most exposed to any consumer backlash against political positioning, are sounding more and more alarmed. It may be that Mrs May, if she survives that long, will be able to get to the proposed exit date of March 2019 with some sort of transitional trade deal in place. But at very best this is bound to be a second class version of what we have at present. Even the so-called "Norway option" would be potentially disastrous for Britain, especially if was accompanied - as is the case with Norway - with leaving the customs union. For a start it would necessitate a hard economic border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, firmer even than that between Norwegians and the Swedes who allow each other's customs police to patrol inside the other country: something unimaginable on either side of Ireland's border. Farmers too, could be immediate victims of any "Norway model" as they would be automatically excluded from the Common Agricultural Policy and the access to European markets it offers. And let's not forget, the Norwegian model is absolutely the very best that would be available to business by way of any post-Brexit trade arrangement and the government is not even offering that as it has ruled out any prospect of staying in the single market. The reality is that any deal that will be reached will almost certainly be far worse. Advertisement That is why it is essential that Parliament keeps and defends its right to have the final say on any and every agreement the government signs up to. Not least because every voter needs to know where their MP stands on such a fundamental decision. The leave campaign and its ministerial supporters promised us that Brexit would not leave us worse off. When the cards are all on the table our elected representatives need to be free to make the judgement about whether that promise has been kept, and vote accordingly. Anything less would be an insult to democracy. Easyturn via Getty Images In business, I've often stumbled across truths rather than act upon my belief in them. Some 12 years ago, when I first set up shop with the British restaurant Roast in London's Borough Market I was troubled by the fact that this most celebrated of Britain's food havens was selling tomatoes for 1, up to 5 for a loaf of (admittedly excellent) bread and chickens for 15. In 2005. Less than half a mile away the nearest residential communities could barely afford 1.50 for a chicken, but at least it would be halal. The market then sold no yams, no okra, no goat and had next to no African, Caribbean or Asian customers. Advertisement It bothered me and my investor to the point where we decided to donate from day one all the profits from one of our tables to support The Prince's Trust work in Southwark. I wanted to make it more than a conventional donations model and instead build it as an active relationship, where I hosted breakfasts and trips around the market for kids from troubled upbringings which had brought them into early confrontation with the law. Whilst we ate together I told them I too had been a troublesome south London teenager with my own gang and managed to work my way up a pole they had grown accustomed to thinking was for other people but not them. That got them listening, which in turn got me thinking more about the role a business can (and increasingly must) play in its community. Many of those kids continued to engage with us and as I extended the notion of an inclusive business to prisoners and ex-offenders, our chefs and managers got involved and started successfully recruiting from Brixton's Clink restaurant. Those early activities and experiences have now been packaged in my head a lot more clearly for when I do my next restaurant, which will wrapped in the enlightened business mantra of our day - purpose. Published this week, June Sarpong's brilliantly provocative and extensively researched book "Diversify - Six Degrees of Integration" provides businesses and leaders across the social spectrum with compelling cases of how what unites us is not just greater than what divides us, but how we must learn and share from what others do in order to gain a competitive advantage. I found this last point on my own journey when customers told me they have been telling others about the work we do and it's getting them to use Roast as a result. In other words, it's proven to be good for business. Advertisement When recently judging the Social Mobility Awards, it struck me that whilst some businesses and charities were undertaking great initiatives to empower young people to take control of their lives for once, the fact that the labour market still significantly discriminates on grounds of race, religion and gender suggests that for every award winner or applicant there must be hundreds if not thousands of organisations failing to step up. As June observes, the pressure to change and be part of this new movement of profit with purpose can often be driven from the most unlikely of sources - shareholders. No business can or will ignore them and the growing band of impact investors, who wish to drive the triple bottom line of people, profit, planet, and who are becoming significant agents for change. I'd love to see this message from her book become the refrain of the ethical shareholder: "If you want that social return in addition to the financial return you must hold your directors and board members to account. Engage fellow stakeholders and investors and consider the longer term and wider societal implications of a particular strategic decision." The messages from Diversify are indeed themselves diverse. When we glumly read that Trump is heading for a safe bet second term, when we despair of the ever unravelling havoc that Brexit will wreak over us, we desperately need a new vision and way of conducting our affairs and so the timing for a refreshed advocacy of the benefits of integration could not be more timely: "Far from making a nation weaker, cultural diversity makes it stronger. That different cultures working together, united and with a shared identity, but at the same time valuing each of their separate contributions equally and allowing them freedom and individuality, can result in a truly cohesive society." From presidents to shopkeepers, we should all read this book and then ask ourselves: "What's our role in this going to be?" HuffPost UK has teamed up with television presenter, broadcaster and author June Sarpong, ahead of the launch of her book Diversify: Six degrees of integration, to highlight and champion the economic, social and moral benefits of diversity. Advertisement Our new study Everyone In, based on a survey carried out by YouthSight, uncovers the importance of taking notice of student drop-out rates. With over 6,500 students surveyed on topics from preparedness for work to mental health, the importance of student retention at university started to emerge as a key factor in helping to set up our future generations for better working opportunities. Advertisement A multitude of factors were shown to affect student life satisfaction, and these areas were even more pronounced for students who self declared as belonging to multiple minority groups, such as LGB+, coming from working class families, belonging to an ethnic minority and having a mental health condition. The students were asked how financial matters, social integration and even Brexit affected their life satisfaction, as well as whether they had ever considered dropping out of university. The answers to these questions start to draw out some of the reasons these multiple minority group students may be finding their studies less satisfactory than the general student population. We found that 10% of students had strongly considered dropping out of their course. Compare that to 21% of students with mental health conditions strongly considering leaving, as well as 21% of disabled students and 15% of LGB+ students. For those belonging to three or more groups, 22% had strongly considered dropping out and 37% had sometimes considered it. In fact only 40% of students belonging to three or more groups had never considered dropping out compared with an overall average of 62%. A strong support network and good social integration showed as important in keeping students on track. Without these, students appeared more prone to consider dropping out, and this is exactly what some lesbian, gay, and bisexual students as well as ethnic minority, disabled and working class students felt was missing. But, why are we worried about retention? Besides the obvious reason that students are more likely to achieve a degree if they stay on their course, our studies show a large difference in students' feelings of soft skill progression between a student's 1st and 3rd year. In more detail, students feel their social, communication and team working skills, as well as understanding of different cultures and confidence growth rises by an average of 9.6% from their first year to third. Advertisement This could mean that students who miss out on finishing their degrees also miss out on becoming competent in vital work skills. These are skills that are more difficult to learn than hard skills because they are more abstract and rely on social interaction, where as hard skills can usually be learnt and practiced alone with the correct resources. A study in May, 2017 by Deloitte Access Economics has forecast that by 2030, soft skill intensive occupations will make up two-thirds of all jobs, with a growth rate of 2.5 times the rate of other jobs. This is mostly down to more job automation, advances in technology, and globalisation. As offices become more culturally integrated, and automation replaces manual tasks, a fine tuned social touch will be ever more important to be able to get by in the working world. The World Economic Forum even stated that 10 of the 16 'crucial proficiencies in the 21st century', are non-technical. Companies are already altering how they operate and how much they invest in soft skills as the link between human capital and economic growth grows stronger. This means that soft skills could be essential tick boxes for hiring employers in the future, so missing out on these skills could make future job prospects for students more uncertain than at present. And uncertainty about job prospects is already quite high due to the current political climate. Our study found that 48% of students feel that Brexit will negatively affect their job prospects, and only 61% 'feel prepared' in getting their first job. Unfortunately, the students who fall into our study groups seem to fare worse than our general student sample. Where 62% of students with no mental health condition said they feel prepared to get their first job, only 55% of students with a mental health condition agreed. Advertisement In fact, 45% of students without a mental health condition feel getting a job will, "need some effort and luck but is achievable", but only 37% of students with a declared mental health condition had the same confidence, and 13% said it would be, "almost impossible, but I'll have a go". These students are also more worried (by 12%) about not getting a similar level of support from a future employer as they get from their university. Linking back to soft skills, confidence levels differ between students with a disability and those without. 76% of students with no disability feel they have grown in confidence whilst at university, but only 66% of disabled students feel this way. Alarmingly, students with a disability rate themselves lower by an average of 7% in all the listed soft skills, including social, teamworking and communication skills as well as cultural understanding. If a student feels that finding work is going to be a serious challenge, these fears are more than likely compounded by a lack of confidence and integration. This combination of feelings is much more likely to feed any doubts a student may have about continuing with their current course, making a student much more likely to seriously consider dropping out. Of course there is much more to university than simply getting a job at the end of it, though this is understandably front of mind for students who may be investing significant resources of time and money into their degree. Our report sheds light on how, for some students, the return on this investment might be more difficult to realise. It also shows the human cost borne by some groups of students who are at greater risk of dropping out, with all the stress and unhappiness this can entail. ChrisSteer via Getty Images I was on a train back from the Edinburgh Fringe 2016 when I first realised I wanted to write plays. I wanted to write stories that you don't often see, from voices and perspectives that are often silent in the majority of theatre. Who had I met in my life who had impacted on me? Whose stories were people missing out on hearing? Why do we so often seem to tell the same stories, about the same people, written by the same people, over and over again? It feels like there have been getting on for 20 versions of Hamlet over the last 12 months. Living in as diverse a city and country as we do, why is our culture so often so narrow, so uniform, so elitist? It's time for some new faces, new narratives and new perspectives in the mainstream. As our associate artist and dramaturg Stephen Unwin describes, with "Joy" we're making "new stories for a new world". Advertisement During the train journey, I wrote the first scene of what is now my play, "Joy", a narrative celebrating a young woman with Down's Syndrome. Whilst working with "Access All Areas" (the life-changing disability-led theatre company), I met Imogen Roberts, who is now playing the title character in "Joy". Upon meeting, Imogen and I very soon realised that my imagined character and Imogen were almost the same person. We've been collaborating on "Joy" ever since. Immy's world and Joy's world cross-over and interweave. What's important to Joy is important to Immy and vice versa. My research for "Joy" has included collaborating with Imogen on the themes, topics, emotions, wants, ambitions and struggles of her own life. For the Victorian storyline, I studied the work of John Langdon Down. Down was a medical pioneer and entrepreneur in Victorian London who not only identified the condition that now bears his name, but also did much to enrich the lives of people with this learning disability. At a time when most people with learning difficulties were very badly treated, Langdon Down founded a community for them. Making "Joy" has not been without its challenges. Often people simply don't want to know. I think they assume that if you are labelled as having a learning disability then you can't act - that "Joy" will be a worthy (but uninteresting) production. We can't wait to prove them wrong. "Joy" is as funny, as stylish, as theatrical, as slick, as playful, as fully-realised as any other. This silent, mild contempt and disinterest only stokes our desire and determination to share it and make it excellent. Advertisement These challenges and disrespectful attitudes towards our work have made me think a great deal recently about what it would be like if every time you walked down the street or walked into a pub, or a theatre, or onto the bus or the tube, people looked at you as if there was something wrong with you, as if you didn't belong, as if the space or the world around you wasn't for you. "Joy" challenges and exposes this discrimination towards those individuals whom society likes to label and marginalise. During our recent appearance on The Guilty Feminist podcast, Imogen explained that she prefers the word "unique" to the word "disabled". In a world that tells her to stay in the margins, Imogen is following her dreams with a quiet confidence and determination. Imogen's too busy living her life to worry about what labels people put on her. It's my firm belief that celebrating and promoting those identified as having learning disabilities impacts positively on society as a whole. It's about celebrating difference and the many different ways of being successful and valuable. Some of us are labelled as having learning disabilities, some of us are not, we're a team making a show together. I'll leave the last words to Imogen: '"Joy" for me is about sisterhood and having something to say, to get your voice heard and stand up for what you believe in. It's amazing to be part of something. I want to share my life story through Joy's eyes. We love life to the full. I am in the same boat as Joy, my family want to keep me safe. When I was young I did drama in school at drama club. Come and see Joy. It has lots of adult humour and will leave you emotional. It's going be magical.' "Joy" by Stephanie Martin: a coming of age story about a young woman with Down's syndrome - a tale of family, friendship, freedom and control. This new play celebrates the lives of people with learning disabilities, exposes the limitations placed upon them, and demands their right to have the life they want. Coming to Theatre Royal Stratford East 24th October - 4th November 2017. Advertisement HuffPost UK Lifestyle has launched EveryBody, a new section calling for better equality and inclusivity for people living with disability and invisible illness. The aim is to empower those whose voices are not always heard and redefine attitudes to identity, lifestyle and ability in 2017. We'll be covering all manner of lifestyle topics - from health and fitness to dating, sex and relationships. We'd love to hear your stories. To blog for the section, please email ukblogteam@huffingtonpost.com with the subject line 'EveryBody'. To flag any issues that are close to your heart, please email natasha.hinde@huffingtonpost.com, again with the subject line 'EveryBody'. LINN COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT From Monday afternoon: Theft, burglary Shaw Jered Valentine, 27, of Lebanon, was charged with second-degree burglary, first-degree theft, two counts of second-degree theft, third-degree theft, unlawful entry into a motor vehicle and three counts of second-degree criminal trespass. The crimes allegedly occurred this summer along Old Holley Road and High Deck Road near Sweet Home, and on McDowell Creek Drive and Bartels Creek Drive near Lebanon. One of the listed victims is Camp Tadmor. In a separate case, from 2016, Valentine was indicted on charges of fleeing or attempt to elude a police officer, criminal driving while suspended or revoked and possession of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $7,500 in each case. Felon with a firearm Sanchez Sam Angelo Jr., 31, of Sweet Home, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of a controlled substance. The crimes allegedly occurred on July 27. Angelos bail was set at $10,000. LINN COUNTY SHERIFF Injury crash 4:58 p.m. Sunday, Kingston Jordan Road and Huntley Road. A 2004 Jeep Liberty crashed into a tree. A 17-year-old girl was taken by helicopter ambulance to a Portland hospital. Intoxicants are not believed to be a factor in the case. No other information was immediately available on Monday afternoon. DUII crash 7:17 p.m. Sunday, American Drive, east of Halsey. A vehicle went off the roadway on a straight stretch. Corrie Myers, 47, was arrested on charges of driving under the influence of intoxicants and reckless driving. Her blood alcohol content was .28 percent. PA Wire/PA Images Authenticity is such a buzzword right now - we all want to eat authentic food, have authentic relationships, travel to authentic places, buy authentic brands and be our authentic selves. There's also the notion that you should always be your authentic self at work too - and I agree with that...to a certain extent. Advertisement For example, the idea behind authentic leadership is that you're always totally honest with your team, that you encourage truthfulness, promote openness, that you value people more than profit and ethics, and that's all good. However, it also demands that you show your vulnerabilities and that you're the same person in the office as you are at home. I believe that when you're a leader, you have different guises that you can and should draw from. You often have to show different versions of yourself and modify your behaviour to suit certain situations. Theresa May is a really good example. She epitomises authentic leadership. She's fairly serious, maybe even a bit dull, and certainly an introvert. I mean, when the best you can come up with is: "I once ran through fields of wheat" when asked about the naughtiest thing you've ever done, that's quite something. Who on earth advised her? We know she's a vicar's daughter, but really? She could have joked about it and said, you know what? I haven't really done very much - I guess it's about time I went out and did something naughty! But, no, she was being entirely serious because she's determined to be authentic. Because she's an introvert, she didn't want to do any of the TV debates or meet the general public ahead of the General Election, or meet the victims of the Grenfell Tower tragedy in the immediate aftermath of the inferno. She was being true to herself, but it's just not okay in that situation. People wanted her to be out there, but she couldn't do it - she couldn't draw on another side of herself. And it's screwed her. Her popularity rating is currently -55. Advertisement This is despite that fact that she's a brilliant politician in many respects, and I think she'd be a very good Number Two. She's given her life to being a public servant. She's probably a good person in real life too, but you have to lead people when you're Prime Minister. That's the job. If she'd had some guidance about dialling up the extrovert side of herself and it wouldn't have been such a disaster. Instead, she stayed honest and authentically introverted - and that's not okay for a Prime Minister. By being too authentic to yourself, you don't draw on your various personality traits when you may need to. What makes you YOU, isn't all good stuff after all. It shouldn't all be on display all the time. If you have a thin skin and get offended too easily, it's said to be authentic leadership to show that you have that vulnerability - but I think that's the absolute worst idea if you're in management, for example. Tone that side of yourself down and turn the strong side of you up. If you're a bit shy, sometimes, you do have to dial up the gregarious, people-loving side of your personality if that's what's required. I do believe in bringing your whole self to work - to do and say stuff you really believe in even if you think it will be frowned on. And I think it's good to show some vulnerability about certain things to show that you're a human being and not a business automaton. The Board of Selectmen asked questions about the vote on Monday night. The Finance Committee met with them last week. And two public sessions were held in the last two weeks. School Officials Answer Regionalization Questions in Lanesborough LANESBOROUGH, Mass. School officials behind the regionalization vote have been around town answering questions about it. But they still don't have a final draft of the proposal. The long talked about full regionalization of Williamstown Elementary School, Lanesborough Elementary School, and Mount Greylock Regional School goes to voters on Nov. 14. The move is seen as a natural progression after sharing administration for nearly a decade. "This is a regional agreement that tries to follow what we have been doing, but making it easier to do it," Williamstown School Committee Chairman Joe Bergeron told the Board of Selectmen on Monday. Bergeron was joined by Lanesborough School Committee Chairwoman Regina DiLego and Superintendent Kimberly Grady. The three had already met with the Finance Committee last week, held a coffee hour on Tuesday, and held a public presentation just before meeting with the board on Monday. But even while they make that outreach effort, they still don't have a final draft of the proposed district agreement. Grady said the multi-page agreement is complicated and needs state approval. She said she is in constant communication with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education trying to get the final sign off. Grady said the intent of the document isn't changing, it is just getting the legal wording the way DESE officials would like to see it. "We are calling. We are emailing. We are trying. It is not like we are trying to keep some magical secret," Grady said. Grady had hoped to have a final draft on Monday but hadn't gotten the approval. She said the moment she gets the OK from the state, she will deliver copies to town officials. The vote is less than a month away, and there won't be much time for town officials to comb through it themselves before them. Further, the warrant needs to go to the printer ahead of time for public notice. "We have deadlines and it is really only a couple weeks away," Town Manager Paul Sieloff said. While there may not be a final draft for town officials to see, the Selectmen had been able to see other drafts. The schools have already seen the majority of the estimated savings with the formation of Superintendency Union 71 in 2008 and its shared administrative structure with Mount Greylock Regional but haven't seen much of an operational efficiency. Now the administration oversees three separate schools, with their own contracts, own school committees, and own set of legal filings to make with the state. The hope is to rid the three schools of the administrative red tape and streamline the process. The majority of the concern in Lanesborough has centered on local control. Town officials are worried that they'll lack the ability to have a say over what happens at their elementary school. Bergeron specifically addressed the closing of a school, which recently happened in the Adams-Cheshire Regional School District. Bergeron said the agreement reads that in order for a school to close, there needs to not only be a two-thirds vote from the School Committee but also votes from both individual towns. Only if the majority in both towns and two-thirds of the new school committee agree will a school be shuttered. The same level of burden also comes with building a new school. With the agreement, the town will still own and be responsible for the school building. The district would lease each individual school from the towns. But there will also be an allowance for the district to spend up to $5,000 on building repairs. Selectman Henry "Hank" Sayers worried that the way the language is written, it would allow multiple projects of less than $5,000 on Williamstown Elementary School while using districtwide dollars to pay for it. "I don't want Lanesborough paying for repairs at Williamstown Elementary," he said. The question took Grady a second to figure out, because she interpreted the language differently. She felt it read that there was cap on repairs for $5,000 in total, not $5,000 that can be tapped into multiple times. "I'm looking at a full number of $5,000. I'm not sure if we are looking at the $5,000 the same way," she said. Either way, Bergeron took that note down and said he'll consult with DESE and the lawyers to see if that can be cleared up. Meanwhile, Selectman Robert Ericson raised concern about the town's ability to make improvements to the school on its own. He has headed the town's Green Communities and focused a lot of effort on energy efficiency projects there. He asked if he would now need to go to the regional school committee for approval to do those things, or if it can still be local. Grady responded that he would not need approval from the district. Ericson also questioned what the consolidation of union contracts will do for negotiations. Each school currently negotiates its own contracts with the local unions. He said with only one set of negotiations, the union becomes more powerful. "The power of the union is going to be pretty substantial because they'll be all of our schools now," Ericson said. "Right now we negotiate with a lot of teachers that also live in Lanesborough, they teach our kids, and they know what position we are in." DiLego responded that he hasn't been involved in the most recent negotiations with Lanesborough. Ericson, however, has sat on the Mount Greylock School Committee and negotiated there. "We, the School Committee, were the weaker side of the equation," he said. Grady doesn't believe the union will have more or less power. And she praised her negotiating team after testy bargaining last year, which ultimately did come to an agreement. "I feel like everybody came out fair. We were at a semi work to rule at Mount Greylock because there were negotiations," Grady said. The Selectmen also asked about the transition committee, which will be comprised of representatives from both elementary school committees. The Selectmen wanted to make sure that those who serve there are able to run for a seat on the newly created regional committee. The move will dissolve three separate governing boards and condense it to one, seven-member committee. DiLego said she will likely be on the transition committee and will run for the regional seat. No one from Lanesborough will be excluded from running for the regional school committee. The town's membership on that committee will be voted every two years, but not every seat will be up for election. The first election will feature both four-year terms and two-year terms. Those two-year terms will be replaced with four-year terms after that. "They will all be four-year seats," Bergeron said. The Selectmen are considering putting the regionalization question as the third item for discussion at the special town meeting. "That would give people a chance to sit down and the people who haven't read it will have a chance to read it," Ericson said. DiLego, however, doesn't like it being so late. The hope was to have the votes in each town at the same time so how the other town votes would have no impact on the outcome. DiLego said Williamstown only has the regionalization vote on the warrant and there is a chance social media and the news from that vote will influence Lanesborough's vote. "The fear is that if you have it as the third item, [Williamstown] will have already voted and gone home," DiLego said. Adams-Cheshire Moving Away From 'Tracked Class' Model CHESHIRE, Mass. Instead of organizing classes based on ability at the middle school level, the Adams-Cheshire Regional School District will now mix students together. Superintendent Robert Putnam told the School Committee on Monday that the district has broken away from the idea of keeping classes homogeneous and now will now bring children of different capabilities together in Grades 4-7. "One could reasonably assume that tracked classes, classes comprised of high-achieving students, should have provided curriculum and instruction that resulted in a higher percentage of students performing in the advanced range," he said. "This was not the case." He said Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessement System scores from the past few years reflected no benefit from a homogeneous model and this new organization method is both a national recommendation and used by neighboring school districts. Putnam said there will be "flexible ability grouping" within classes and that students will be divided up within the classroom based on a formative assessment. "While teachers provide instruction to one group, the other students work independently engaged in cooperative group activities or computer instruction," he said. "The teacher rotates among these groups so each student receives a dose of teacher-led instruction." Putnam said this new structure is beneficial because there is less risk of students being stigmatized for being in a "dumbed down classroom" and a teacher's expectations for all pupils will remain at a higher level. Higher-performing students will also be able to help struggling students, he said. School Committee member Darlene Rodowicz said the new organization will only be successful if the teachers receive the proper training. Putnam agreed and said the bulk of professional development currently is centered around the new model. Rodowicz added that she thought the new model would only work if all students are held to high standards. "Although we want to make sure there is no stigmatization ... we also want to make sure that all students are challenged," she said. In other business, the School Committee officially designated Grades 4-7 at Hoosac Valley as elementary. Putnam said the state requires the district to either label the grade configuration as elementary or secondary to determine time on learning. An elementary school must ensure 900 hours and a secondary school must ensure 990 hours. Principal Christopher Sposato said this number is already surpassed. "No matter what the designation is our kids are going to get a lot of education," he said. The committee also approved hiring representatives from Massachusetts Association of Regional Schools to help the Regional Agreement Committee amend the agreement between the towns of Adams and Cheshire. The committee will hold its first meeting in early November and the estimated cost of the MARS-facilitated meetings at between $10,000 and $15,000. Putnam also updated the School Committee on the turnaround plan that he hopes will increase the district's performance and increase its state leveling. The district is a Level 3, meaning not enough students are progressing academically. Putnam said the district has already reached the benchmarks in the first practice in the plan, improving leadership. He said this was done by implementing leadership teams. He added that they have yet to meet the marks on the second practice, shared responsibility because the district has been unable to hire a high school interventionist and a mathematics interventionist. "The difficulty we face right now is just having people apply for the job that are qualified," he said. "It's not a question of our pay scale. They are competitive with our neighbors." Putnam said he attributes the lack of applications to the arduous budget process earlier this year. The positions had been part of the controversial budget debates that saw the closing of Cheshire Elementary School. "We had a number of applications but with the defeat of the budget in June, a lot of the applicants were concerned over the viability of the job," he said. Putnam said the positions may be dropped down to part time in hopes retired teachers might show an interest. He said this would hold the district over until it can repost the positions for the next school year. iciHaiti - Minujusth : Messages from the United States and the UN On Monday, 16 October 2017, the United Nations Mission in Haiti (Minujusth), composed of 1,275 police officers and 350 civilians, officially began its two-year mandate. Recall that this is the 6th UN mission in Haiti over the past 25 years after 13 years of presence of peacekeepers in the framework of the Minustah. Spokesman Heather Nauert of the US State Department and Spokesman of Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, issued a message in this context : Message from the US Department of State : "The United States welcomes the UN Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (MINUJUSTH), which begins operations today, October 16. We congratulate Haiti for its progress in achieving greater security and stability and recognize the conclusion of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) on October 15. We commend MINUSTAH for the contributions toward strengthening state institutions key to advancing Haitis long-term security, democratic development, and economic growth. The transition to MINUJUSTH marks a turning point in Haiti: from stability efforts to a focus on justice and the rule of law. With MINUJUSTH, the Government of Haiti and the people of Haiti will take the lead in providing their own security and law enforcement. MINUJUSTH will focus on developing the Haitian National Police (HNP), strengthening the rule of law, and promoting human rights. Having demonstrated its ability to maintain stability and guard against security threats, the HNP has emerged as one of the most trusted governmental institutions in Haiti. The United States has supported the HNP for more than 20 years and will continue to do so. MINUJUSTH will also be a strong partner to help the Haitian government build the capacity of the HNP and bring reforms to the justice sector. The United States believes the transition from MINUSTAH to MINUJUSTH can serve as a model for how UN peacekeeping missions should adapt as a countrys needs change and its political situation evolves. As a longstanding partner of Haiti, the United States looks forward to this new chapter in Haitis national story and will remain committed to working with the Government of Haiti and the international community to ensure a more secure, stable, and self-sufficient Haiti." Message from the Secretary-General of the United Nations : "The Secretary-General welcomes the establishment today of the United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (MINUJUSTH), following the end of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) mandate on 15 October. The closure of MINUSTAH is a testament to Haitis progress over the past 13 years. The Secretary-General extends his gratitude to all civilian and uniformed personnel who served with MINUSTAH, as well as to troop- and police-contributing countries. MINUJUSTH reflects the commitment of the United Nations to continue supporting the consolidation of peace and promotion of stability in Haiti. MINUJUSTH will assist the Haitian Government to strengthen rule-of-law institutions, further develop the capacities of the national police and advance human rights. The national police can rely on operational support from MINUJUSTH, when needed, to maintain law and order throughout the territory. The Secretary-General is confident that the Haitian people and Government will work in close partnership with MINUJUSTH and the United Nations country team to implement together joint priorities based on resolution 2350 (2017) and reflected in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development." See also : https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-22416-haiti-minujusth-new-un-mission-in-haiti-begins.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22318-haiti-flash-minustah-jovenel-moise-thanks-the-un.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20656-haiti-flash-bye-bye-the-minustah-hello-the-minujusth.html IH/ iciHaiti The Millersburg City Council has a new representative: Bradley Johnston, 17, a senior at South Albany High School. Johnston, who lives in Millersburg, will not be a voting member that's not allowed of anyone but elected officials, and those must be at least 18 but his role will be to act as a councilor in every other way, said Steve Hasson, city manager. It was Hasson's idea originally to seek out a student member, Mayor Jim Lepin said. He suggested it at his first meeting several months ago, but it took a while to work out the details. "We're excited about doing this as a council," Lepin said. Hasson said he has worked with student representatives on councils in other cities and said he has noticed several benefits. First, he said, the council itself gains knowledge and perspective from a source who is affected by its actions but doesn't usually get a say in the process. Second, it's important to recognize and support the youth who will, it's hoped, later share their talents with the community where they grew up. Sometimes, having a student member brings students into the audience, who then gain insight into how city government works. And, Hasson added, in his perspective, a council with youth members is usually on its best behavior. That boosts public confidence that the community is in good hands. "I think this is a win-win for Albany students and the community," he said. "They (students) are talented, they're smart, they know things. Why not recognize that and put it to work?" Hasson reached out to South Albany High first because it's in Millersburg's attendance boundary, and it was important to the council that the representative be a resident. Associate Principal Nate Munoz helped find Johnston, who readily agreed. "He's a student who represents South Albany in the best way possible," Munoz said. "It's pretty awesome." The council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Johnston started his duties with the Oct. 10 meeting and will continue to be present through the school year. "Living in Millersburg, it's easy for me to represent Millersburg," Johnston said. "I'm just doing this for hope of a better future, for me and the people of Millersburg." Johnston was born in Lebanon, came with his family to Albany as an infant and moved to Millersburg in 2009. He is the son of Rob and Jenny Johnston and has two younger siblings. An honor student and three-sport South Albany athlete whose big focus is track, Johnston's only exposure to city politics until now has been through his grandmother, who is the mayor of tiny Halfway, Oregon. His first Millersburg council meeting gave him a new perspective on his 1,600-person hometown just north of Albany, he said. Much of the agenda dealt with road maintenance, safety and property crimes, such as car clouts and stolen Halloween decorations. "I didn't know about any of this," he said. "Nice little Millersburg you never think about it being your neighborhood." Johnston said he didn't say much in his first meeting because everything was new to him. Between now and the Nov. 14 meeting, however, he plans to study his council packet, listen closely to his neighbors, keep his eyes open and peruse websites that talk about area issues so he can contribute to discussions. "I think it's going to be really interesting," he said. Johnston said he personally isinterested in politics only from a structural standpoint who's running for national offices, for instance but doesn't much care for the partisan aspect. "I just want to get stuff done," he said. "I don't want to get political about it." Nor has he ever seriously explored the idea of running for office until now. He plans to study mechanical engineering after graduation, likely at Oregon State University. But it's possible, he said, that once he turns 18 next month he'll consider putting himself in the running for a real council slot. "Maybe next year, if I'm in the area still," he said. That's the whole idea behind youth service, Hasson said. "You want them to come back and help contribute to the sense of community and family, but if you don't invest in them, you don't know you're going to get that return," he said. "By having youth serve on council and help with decision-making, you're recognizing the importance of youth and you're gaining their insight firsthand, which is really important to the public process." WiFi isnt safe: WPA2 Protocol broken by Belgian Researchers Washington, DC - The protocol used by the majority of WiFi connections is vulnerable, allowing traffic to be exposed. WiFi connections arent safe. This isnt a new statement, its advice security experts have given for years, and now as a result of Belgian researchers, its more true than ever. Mathy Vanhoef of Belgian university KU Leuven published a report on Monday detailing a flaw in the WPA2 protocol. WPA2 stands for WiFi Protected Access II. It is meant to secure wireless computer networks but, per Vanhoef: Attackers can use this novel attack technique to read information that was previously assumed to be safely encrypted. This can be abused to steal sensitive information such as credit card numbers, passwords, chat messages, emails, photos and so on the attack works against all modern protected wifi networks. Depending on the network configuration, it is also possible to inject and manipulate data. For example, an attacker might be able to inject ransomware or other malware into websites. Later on, Vanhoef writes that if your device supports WiFi its probably affected. But for the record, this affects: Android Linux Apple Windows OpenBSD MediaTek Linksys The flaw affects the protocol itself, not any specific device or software, so its possible to have the correct implementations and still be adversely affected. How do I stay safe? Well, we already would have recommended staying off public WiFi to begin with. But this doesnt just affect public WiFi, it affects all WiFi. Fortunately, the attacker would need to be in close proximity to you in order to pull off an attack. So that limits the potential quite a bit. Still, if youre going to use WiFi, we recommend SSH or what we use ourselves a VPN. Both of these can keep third parties from eavesdropping, manipulating information and causing other problems with your encryption. Also, update your router. Youve been neglecting those updates, havent you? 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 }} Anthony Bourdain has fiercely criticised James Corden for making jokes about Harvey Weinsteins sex abuse scandal while hosting a charity gala. Corden, who hosts The Late Late Show, sparked a backlash on social media after making gags about Weinstein at the annual amfAR gala on Friday. The comedian joked: Its been weird this week watching Harvey Weinstein in hot water. Ask any of the women who watched him take a bath, its weird. Corden also said: Its a beautiful night here in LA. So beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked me tonight up to his hotel to give him a massage. Bourdain, the globe-trotting TV chef who is famed for his acerbic critiques of food, hit out at Corden for joking about the disgraced Hollywood producer who is facing rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment allegations. The veteran chef branded Corden an a**hole and a pandering tool in a series of angry tweets and argued his jokes showed snickering Hollywood in all its grotesquerie. James Corden reveals snickering Hollywood in all its grotesquerie. It's not about masturbation, asshole. It's about rape, he said. He continued: James Corden gonna have trouble booking talent at a methadone clinic after this. #TurdDumpling. Mr Corden is free to tell whatever jokes he likes. As he should be. I'm free to suggest he's a porcine, pandering tool. #lowhangingfruit. Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Thing about James Corden when he was sweatily dribbling out rape jokes, no one stood up and said, f**k you, Pop'n'Fresh!. Cordens jokes on stage at the HIV/Aids fundraiser were met with a mixture of groans and nervous laughter from the audience which included Tom Hanks, Chris Martin, Julian Roberts, Sean Penn, Fergie and Kate Hudson. Hanks is on the 54-member board of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences that expelled Weinstein in the wake of allegations of sexual harassment that span back over almost three decades. Cordens jokes prompted fury from a number of other high-profile figures on Twitter including Rose McGowan who alleges that Weinstein raped her. You motherf***ing piglet, she tweeted with a clip of Corden making his speech. Asia Argento, who also claims she was assaulted by Weinstein, shared a clip of Cordens speech and wrote: Shame on this pig and everyone who grunted with him #amfARLosAngeles. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Show all 42 1 /42 Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Harvey Weinstein Harry Weinsteins reputation as one of Hollywoods leading executives was long cemented in stone. The acclaimed movie mogul, who produced Oscar-winning films Shakespeare in Love, The English Patient, and The Artist, clocked up box office successes and accolades aplenty. But this has quickly changed since a chorus of women have come forward to accuse the Hollywood producer of sexual harassment and assault. Since the New York Times bombshell report disclosed sexual harassment and rape allegations against the film mogul dating back decades, Weinstein has been fired from his namesake company, expelled from the Oscars and has had his wife leave him. Weinstein has apologised for having caused a lot of pain but has denied all allegations of nonconsensual sex. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Annabella Sciorra The Sopranos actor alleged Weinstein raped her after shooting The Night We Never Met, a 1993 movie that Weinstein produced. Similar to the stories told by other women, Weinstein drove the actor home, only to reportedly burst into Sciorra's apartment and start unbuttoning his shirt. He shoved me onto the bed, and he got on top of me, Sciorra said. I kicked and I yelled. Weinstein then allegedly locked her arms and forced sexual intercourse on her. After the incident, Sciorra found it increasingly hard to get work, many filmmakers saying 'We heard you were difficult', something the actor claims was because of the 'Weinstein-machine'. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Natassia Malthe The model and actress, who has appeared in around 50 films, said she met Weinstein at a BAFTA after party in 2008 while she was working as a spokeswoman for LG. She told a press conference in New York that she felt pressured into telling Weinstein she was staying at the Sanderson Hotel after being put on the spot. Malthe, now 43, said after her shift on February 10 she went back to her room and went to sleep, but was awoken by "repeated pounding" on her door, from someone yelling: "Open the door Natassia Malthe, it's Harvey Weinstein." Feeling humiliated, she said she opened the door. She alleged Weinstein began implying sex would get her a role in an upcoming film while semi-undressed and then he began to masturbate. "I was sitting on the bed talking to Harvey when he pushed me back and forced himself onto me. It was not consensual. He did not use a condom," she said. AP Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Sean Young The actor, best known for her role in Ridley Scott's Blade Runner, said that Weinstein exposed himself to her in the early 1990s, when she was starring in the Miramax-produced Love Crimes - a production company that Weinstein headed at the time. "I personally experienced him pulling his you-know-what out of his pants to shock me," she said. "My basic response was, 'You know, Harvey, I really dont think you should be pulling that thing out, its not very pretty.'" Young never worked with Weinstein again after the incident. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mimi Haleyi Mimi Haleyi said she was assaulted by Weinstein in what appeared to be a child's bedroom in his New York City apartment in 2006 when she was in her 20s. She said she was aspiring to work in television and film production when she was first introduced to him at the London premiere of The Aviator around two years earlier and he helped her get experience on the set of a TV show being produced by The Weinstein Company. But, she added, he repeatedly hassled her and even tried to force himself through her front door in an effort to get her to join him on a trip to Paris. At one point he allegedly forcibly performed oral sex on an aspiring production assistant while she was on her period. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lupita Nyong'o In an op-ed for The New York Times, the Oscar-winning actor said she was invited to Weinsteins family home in Connecticut on the premise of watching a film shortly after they met in 2011. But she said shortly after it started he "insisted" in front of his children that she follow him and she was led to his bedroom. The Kenyan-Mexican actress, now 34, said she felt pressured into giving him a massage after he offered her one. "Before long he said he wanted to take off his pants," she wrote."I told him not to do that and informed him that it would make me extremely uncomfortable. He got up anyway to do so and I headed for the door, saying that I was not at all comfortable with that." Over the years that followed, he continued to get in touch, Nyong'o said, and when she declined another proposition she felt her career was threatened. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lena Headey Writing on social media, the Game of Thrones actor claims she first met Weinstein at the Venice Film Festival in 2005 where, after taking her for a walk by the water, he made some suggestive comment and gesture. Headey claims she bumped into Weinstein years later where he kept asking her questions about her love life. She alleges that, when Weinstein invited her to his hotel room to show her a script, the "energy shifted. The actor notes how, after saying she was not interesting in anything but the work, Weinstein was furious, apparently marching her back to a lift, "grabbing and holding tightly to the back of [her] arm." She claims that, after paying for her car, he whispered in her ear: "Don't tell anyone about this, not your manager, not your agent. Headey finished the post, writing: I got in the car and I cried. Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lucia Evans The actor told The New Yorker that after a meeting to discuss casting her in various projects, Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him. I said, over and over, I dont want to do this, stop, dont. She added: Hes a big guy. He overpowered me. I just sort of gave up. Thats the most horrible part of it, and thats why hes been able to do this for so long to so many women: people give up, and then they feel like its their fault. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Laura Madden Madden, a production assistant who worked at Miramax for a decade, told the Times that Weinstein allegedly prodded her for massages at hotels, a common theme among the sources the Timess reporters spoke with. On one occasion, she claims she locked herself in his hotel bathroom, sobbing Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ashley Judd Judd recounted for the Times how Weinstein allegedly harassed her while she was filming Kiss the Girls in 1996, inviting her to his hotel room and asking her for a massage, then inviting her to watch him shower. Judd first went public with the allegations in a 2015 interview with Variety during which she discussed the experience without naming the producer involved. She described Weinsteins alleged behaviour as coercive bargaining; I said no, a lot of ways, a lot of times, and he always came back at me with some new ask, she told the Times AFP/Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Rose McGowan McGowan reportedly reached a previously undisclosed $100,000 settlement with Weinstein in 1997, over an incident that occurred in a hotel room Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mimi Haleyi Mimi Haleyi said she was assaulted by Weinstein in what appeared to be a child's bedroom in his New York City apartment in 2006 when she was in her 20s. She said she was aspiring to work in television and film production when she was first introduced to him at the London premiere of The Aviator around two years earlier and he helped her get experience on the set of a TV show being produced by The Weinstein Company. But, she added, he repeatedly hassled her and even tried to force himself through her front door in an effort to get her to join him on a trip to Paris. At one point he allegedly forcibly performed oral sex on an aspiring production assistant while she was on her period. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Emily Nestor Nestor had been temping at the Weinstein Company for only one day in 2014 when Weinstein allegedly offered to boost her career in return for sexual favours, according to the Times. She declined and reportedly complained of his behaviour to colleagues, who later passed the information on to senior executives. An internal Weinstein Company document cited by the Times describes Nestors encounter with Weinstein as follows: She said he was very persistent and focused though she kept saying no for over an hour Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ambra Battilana In March 2015, Battilana, an aspiring model and actress, was reportedly summoned to Weinsteins office on a Friday night to discuss her career. According to a police report cited by the Times, Battilana claimed she was assaulted by Weinstein, who grabbed her breasts after asking if they were real and put his hands up her skirt. Weinstein later claimed that Battilana had set him up, according to colleagues of his who were interviewed by the Times. The Manhattan District Attorney, Cyrus Vance, later declined to press charges, and according to the Times, made a payment to Battilana. On 5 October, the International Business Times reported that after Vance dropped the charges, he received $10,000 from Weinsteins lawyer Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lauren OConnor Lauren OConnor, an employee of the Weinstein Company, penned a memo to executives alleging a toxic environment for women at the company. The memo cited numerous incidents of Weinstein harassing or coercing women who worked for him. She expressed fear that Weinstein was using her and other female employees to facilitate liaisons with vulnerable women who hope he will get them work. That same year, Weinstein allegedly reached a settlement with OConnor Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Kate Beckinsale The actor, who starred in the Weinstein Company films Serendipity and The Aviator, alleges that she was invited to Weinsteins hotel room at the age of just 17. When she approached the door, the producer reportedly greeted her dressed in just a dressing gown. I was incredibly naive and young and it did not cross my mind that this older, unattractive man would expect me to have any sexual interest in him, she wrote on Instagram. After declining alcohol and announcing that I had school in the morning I left, uneasy but unscathed. Theo Wargo/Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Gwyneth Paltrow The actor alleges that after he cast her in the title role of the film Emma when she was 22, he took her to his hotel room, placed his hands on her and suggested massages. I was a kid, I was signed up, I was petrified, Paltrow told the New York Times. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Asia Argento Italian actress Asia Argento has alleged that in 1997 Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her as she repeatedly told him to stop. When I see him, it makes me feel little and stupid and weak, Argento told The New Yorker. After the rape, he won. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Cara Delevigne The British model and actress penning an Instagram post claiming that Weinstein had ordered her to kiss another woman in his hotel room, and tried to kiss her on the lips. AFP/Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ashley Judd Ashley Judd said she rebuffed Harvey Weinsteins unwanted sexual advances by offering to consent only after she had won an Oscar. When she was initially invited to a meeting with Weinstein, Judd said, she was surprised to learn the producer was in his hotel room - a tactic that recurs in other womens accounts. Echoing the accounts of other women, Judd said Weinstein suggested she give him a massage and then invited her to watch him shower. After a volley of nos she said she would only after she wins an Oscar, fleeing after making the comments. Reuters/Mike Segar Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Judith Godreche French actress Judith Godreche said when she was 24 Weinstein invited her to his hotel room and asked to give her a massage. The next thing I know, hes pressing against me and pulling off my sweater, she told the New York Times. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mira Sorvino The Oscar-winning actor said she found herself in a hotel room with Weinstein in 1995 where he started massaging my shoulders, which made me very uncomfortable, and then tried to get more physical, sort of chasing me around. According to an interview in The New Yorker Weinstein subsequently arrived at her apartment late at night and she had to call a friend to come over to pose as her boyfriend in order to get Weinstein out of the house. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Katherine Kendall The actress said Weinstein undressed and chased her around a living room when she was just 23. She subsequently felt that telling others meant Ill never work again and no one is going to care or believe me, she told the New York Times. WireImage Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Tomi-Anne Roberts As an aspiring actress and working in a restaurant in New York, Tomi-Ann Roberts encountered Weinstein who encouraged her to audition for one of his films back in 1984. She subsequently went to meet him and found him naked in the bath and invited her to get naked and get into the bath with him, she told the New York Times. She said she left feeling manipulated. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Myleen Klass It has also been alleged that the disgraced film producer propositioned Myleene Klass with a sex contract at Cannes Film Festival in 2010. One of the singer and television personalitys friends reportedly told The Sun, Klass had told Weinstein to f*** off. Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Sophie Dix Sophie Dix, best known for her role as Captain Sadie Williams in Soldier Soldier, described her encounter with Weinstein when she was 23 as the single most damaging thing thats happened in my life. She told The Guardian Weinstein had pushed her to her bed and was tugging at her clothes. She rushed to the bathroom to escape, but when she came out she found him standing there masturbating. I quickly closed the door again and locked it, she said. Then when I heard room service come to the door I just ran. Rex Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lea Seydoux The actor and director claims she had to fight off Weinstein after he brought her to his hotel room during what she remembers to be 2012. He suddenly jumped on me and tried to kiss me. I had to defend myself. Hes big and fat, so I had to be forceful to resist him. I left his room, thoroughly disgusted, she wrote in The Guardian. AFP/Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Claire Forlani British actress Claire Forlani wrote on Twitter that she had evaded Weinsteins advances on five occasions at the age of 25. At meetings with the Hollywood a-lister, she says massage was suggested, and that Weinstein had boasted of all the women hed had sex with. Mark Douet Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Florence Darel French actress Florence Darel claimed Weinstein relentlessly pursued her in the mid 1990's and propositioned her while Eve Chilton, his wife at the time, was in the hotel room next door. I was astonished, she told People magazine. When you have someone so physically disgusting in front of you, continuing and continuing as though this was all perfectly normal What happened to me may not be illegal but it was inappropriate. Very inappropriate. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lysette Anthony Lysette Anthony, who starred as Marnie Nightingale in Hollyoaks, has claimed Weinstein raped her in the late 1980's after turning up to her London home in the late 1980s. She described the disgraced film producers alleged attack as pathetic and revolting and said it left her feeling disgusted and embarrassed. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Dawn Dunning Dunning said she met Weinstein in 2003 when she was 24-years-old and the disgraced film producer suggested she have a threesome with him and someone else. She told the New York Times Weinstein got angry when she refused. Youll never make it in this business, she said he told her as she left. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Rosanna Arquette Rosanna Arquette was already well known for her role in Desperately Seeking Susan, when she said she met Weinstein at his hotel to pick up a script in the early nineties. Weinstein was dressed only in a dressing gown, and tried to put her hand on his erect penis. Speaking to the New York Times, Arquette said as she left she told him: I will never be that girl. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Emma de Caunes Caunes, a French actor, claimed Weinstein took her to his hotel room in 2010 supposedly to retrieve a book he was making into a film, but once there he went into the bathroom. De Caunes said he then emerged naked, with an erection and told her to lie on the bed. She fled the room. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Zoe Brock Model Zoe claimed that she had to lock herself in a bathroom at Weinsteins hotel in 1997, after the mogul had sent all of the assistants out of the room, and then appeared naked. I was alone with Weinstein, she told ITVs This Morning programme. He very quickly left the room and came back naked. He chased me naked. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Jessica Barth Actress Jessica Barth described an encounter with Weinstein in 2011 in an interview with The New Yorker in which she said Weinstein veered between offering her roles in films and demanding a naked massage. She alleges the producer said to her: So, what would happen if, say, were having some champagne and I take my clothes off and you give me a massage? When she tried to leave, he then promised to give her the number of a female executive at the company. He gave me her number, and I walked out and I started bawling, Barth said. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Romola Garai The actress told The Guardian she felt violated after she went to a meeting with Weinstein at the age of 18 and he met her in his hotel room wearing nothing but a dressing gown. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Heather Graham Graham claimed that during a casting opportunity in the early 2000's Weinstein had told her he had an open relationship with his wife. He could sleep with whomever he wanted when he was out of town. I walked out of the meeting feeling uneasy, Graham told Variety. There was no explicit mention that to star in one of those films I had to sleep with him, but the subtext was there. Graham was never hired to work in a Weinstein film. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Jessica Hynes Spaced and W1A star Jessica Hynes tweeted about an encounter with Weinstein earlier this week, but subsequently deleted the tweet. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lucia Evans The actor told The New Yorker that after a meeting to discuss casting her in various projects, Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him. I said, over and over, I dont want to do this, stop, dont. She added: Hes a big guy. He overpowered me. I just sort of gave up. Thats the most horrible part of it, and thats why hes been able to do this for so long to so many women: people give up, and then they feel like its their fault. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Louisette Geiss The former actress said she met Weinstein to pitch a film script she was working on. During the meeting, Weinstein allegedly went out and reappeared naked and got into a jacuzzi where he masturbated in front of her and said he would make the script into a film if she stayed and watched. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Liza Campbell Liza Campbell, a British writer and artist, alleged that Olympically ugly Weinstein asked her to join him in the bath and began getting undressed at a hotel. In a piece for The Times, Campbell claimed she was forced to sprint to the door to escape. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Louise Godbold Writing in a blog post, Louise Godbold, a non-profit director in Los Angeles, said her encounter with Weinstein took the form of an office tour that became an occasion to trap me in an empty meeting room. She said then Weinstein was begging for a massage, his hands on my shoulders as I attempted to beat a retreat. Corden has since apologised for his comments and insisted he does not think sexual assault should be the butt of jokes. To be clear, sexual assault is no laughing matter," he said in a statement. "I was not trying to make light of Harveys inexcusable behaviour, but to shame him, the abuser, not his victims. I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention. The Weinstein fallout exploded last week when The New York Times published a bombshell story about Weinstein's numerous settlements with women and included Ashley Judd accusing Weinstein of sexual harassment. This was followed by a 10-month investigative piece in The New Yorker that included three women who accused him of rape. More than 40 women have accused the Hollywood A-lister of sexual misconduct. Police forces in both the US and the UK have announced that they are investigating allegations made against the film mogul. Weinstein denies any accusations of nonconsensual sex. "Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr Weinstein. Mr Weinstein has further confirmed that there were never any acts of retaliation against any women for refusing his advances," his spokesperson told The Independent in a statement. 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 }} Carrie Fisher continues to be a total badass even after her death. A friend of the late actress, author and producer recently told of an incident where she allegedly received inappropriate advances from a Hollywood producer. Heather Ross claimed she was assaulted by an "Oscar-winning producer" - not Harvey Weinstein - she clarified, but another, around 1999. She was speaking on a local Arizona radio station - 94.9's 'Morning Mix' - about the pervasiveness of sexual harassment in the film industry. Ross claimed that a producer picked her up in his car after they agreed to meet to talk about her involvement in his latest project. He then reportedly made an excuse to pull over, reached over her to recline the passenger seat, and pushed himself on top of her. Once she had recovered from the initial fear and shock, Ross went to Fisher for advice. Fisher made it very clear how she felt about that sort of behaviour - apparently hand-delivering the producer a gift-wrapped message. "It was a cow tongue from Jerry's Famous Deli with a note that said: 'If you ever touch my darling Heather or any woman again, the next delivery will be something of yours in a much smaller box'," Ross said. Fisher reportedly made sure to deliver the box in person and watch the producer as he opened it. "That's just how she was," Ross said. "I miss her dearly. She stood up for people... she put things out there and in your face." Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Show all 42 1 /42 Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Harvey Weinstein Harry Weinsteins reputation as one of Hollywoods leading executives was long cemented in stone. The acclaimed movie mogul, who produced Oscar-winning films Shakespeare in Love, The English Patient, and The Artist, clocked up box office successes and accolades aplenty. But this has quickly changed since a chorus of women have come forward to accuse the Hollywood producer of sexual harassment and assault. Since the New York Times bombshell report disclosed sexual harassment and rape allegations against the film mogul dating back decades, Weinstein has been fired from his namesake company, expelled from the Oscars and has had his wife leave him. Weinstein has apologised for having caused a lot of pain but has denied all allegations of nonconsensual sex. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Annabella Sciorra The Sopranos actor alleged Weinstein raped her after shooting The Night We Never Met, a 1993 movie that Weinstein produced. Similar to the stories told by other women, Weinstein drove the actor home, only to reportedly burst into Sciorra's apartment and start unbuttoning his shirt. He shoved me onto the bed, and he got on top of me, Sciorra said. I kicked and I yelled. Weinstein then allegedly locked her arms and forced sexual intercourse on her. After the incident, Sciorra found it increasingly hard to get work, many filmmakers saying 'We heard you were difficult', something the actor claims was because of the 'Weinstein-machine'. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Natassia Malthe The model and actress, who has appeared in around 50 films, said she met Weinstein at a BAFTA after party in 2008 while she was working as a spokeswoman for LG. She told a press conference in New York that she felt pressured into telling Weinstein she was staying at the Sanderson Hotel after being put on the spot. Malthe, now 43, said after her shift on February 10 she went back to her room and went to sleep, but was awoken by "repeated pounding" on her door, from someone yelling: "Open the door Natassia Malthe, it's Harvey Weinstein." Feeling humiliated, she said she opened the door. She alleged Weinstein began implying sex would get her a role in an upcoming film while semi-undressed and then he began to masturbate. "I was sitting on the bed talking to Harvey when he pushed me back and forced himself onto me. It was not consensual. He did not use a condom," she said. AP Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Sean Young The actor, best known for her role in Ridley Scott's Blade Runner, said that Weinstein exposed himself to her in the early 1990s, when she was starring in the Miramax-produced Love Crimes - a production company that Weinstein headed at the time. "I personally experienced him pulling his you-know-what out of his pants to shock me," she said. "My basic response was, 'You know, Harvey, I really dont think you should be pulling that thing out, its not very pretty.'" Young never worked with Weinstein again after the incident. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mimi Haleyi Mimi Haleyi said she was assaulted by Weinstein in what appeared to be a child's bedroom in his New York City apartment in 2006 when she was in her 20s. She said she was aspiring to work in television and film production when she was first introduced to him at the London premiere of The Aviator around two years earlier and he helped her get experience on the set of a TV show being produced by The Weinstein Company. But, she added, he repeatedly hassled her and even tried to force himself through her front door in an effort to get her to join him on a trip to Paris. At one point he allegedly forcibly performed oral sex on an aspiring production assistant while she was on her period. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lupita Nyong'o In an op-ed for The New York Times, the Oscar-winning actor said she was invited to Weinsteins family home in Connecticut on the premise of watching a film shortly after they met in 2011. But she said shortly after it started he "insisted" in front of his children that she follow him and she was led to his bedroom. The Kenyan-Mexican actress, now 34, said she felt pressured into giving him a massage after he offered her one. "Before long he said he wanted to take off his pants," she wrote."I told him not to do that and informed him that it would make me extremely uncomfortable. He got up anyway to do so and I headed for the door, saying that I was not at all comfortable with that." Over the years that followed, he continued to get in touch, Nyong'o said, and when she declined another proposition she felt her career was threatened. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lena Headey Writing on social media, the Game of Thrones actor claims she first met Weinstein at the Venice Film Festival in 2005 where, after taking her for a walk by the water, he made some suggestive comment and gesture. Headey claims she bumped into Weinstein years later where he kept asking her questions about her love life. She alleges that, when Weinstein invited her to his hotel room to show her a script, the "energy shifted. The actor notes how, after saying she was not interesting in anything but the work, Weinstein was furious, apparently marching her back to a lift, "grabbing and holding tightly to the back of [her] arm." She claims that, after paying for her car, he whispered in her ear: "Don't tell anyone about this, not your manager, not your agent. Headey finished the post, writing: I got in the car and I cried. Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lucia Evans The actor told The New Yorker that after a meeting to discuss casting her in various projects, Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him. I said, over and over, I dont want to do this, stop, dont. She added: Hes a big guy. He overpowered me. I just sort of gave up. Thats the most horrible part of it, and thats why hes been able to do this for so long to so many women: people give up, and then they feel like its their fault. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Laura Madden Madden, a production assistant who worked at Miramax for a decade, told the Times that Weinstein allegedly prodded her for massages at hotels, a common theme among the sources the Timess reporters spoke with. On one occasion, she claims she locked herself in his hotel bathroom, sobbing Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ashley Judd Judd recounted for the Times how Weinstein allegedly harassed her while she was filming Kiss the Girls in 1996, inviting her to his hotel room and asking her for a massage, then inviting her to watch him shower. Judd first went public with the allegations in a 2015 interview with Variety during which she discussed the experience without naming the producer involved. She described Weinsteins alleged behaviour as coercive bargaining; I said no, a lot of ways, a lot of times, and he always came back at me with some new ask, she told the Times AFP/Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Rose McGowan McGowan reportedly reached a previously undisclosed $100,000 settlement with Weinstein in 1997, over an incident that occurred in a hotel room Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mimi Haleyi Mimi Haleyi said she was assaulted by Weinstein in what appeared to be a child's bedroom in his New York City apartment in 2006 when she was in her 20s. She said she was aspiring to work in television and film production when she was first introduced to him at the London premiere of The Aviator around two years earlier and he helped her get experience on the set of a TV show being produced by The Weinstein Company. But, she added, he repeatedly hassled her and even tried to force himself through her front door in an effort to get her to join him on a trip to Paris. At one point he allegedly forcibly performed oral sex on an aspiring production assistant while she was on her period. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Emily Nestor Nestor had been temping at the Weinstein Company for only one day in 2014 when Weinstein allegedly offered to boost her career in return for sexual favours, according to the Times. She declined and reportedly complained of his behaviour to colleagues, who later passed the information on to senior executives. An internal Weinstein Company document cited by the Times describes Nestors encounter with Weinstein as follows: She said he was very persistent and focused though she kept saying no for over an hour Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ambra Battilana In March 2015, Battilana, an aspiring model and actress, was reportedly summoned to Weinsteins office on a Friday night to discuss her career. According to a police report cited by the Times, Battilana claimed she was assaulted by Weinstein, who grabbed her breasts after asking if they were real and put his hands up her skirt. Weinstein later claimed that Battilana had set him up, according to colleagues of his who were interviewed by the Times. The Manhattan District Attorney, Cyrus Vance, later declined to press charges, and according to the Times, made a payment to Battilana. On 5 October, the International Business Times reported that after Vance dropped the charges, he received $10,000 from Weinsteins lawyer Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lauren OConnor Lauren OConnor, an employee of the Weinstein Company, penned a memo to executives alleging a toxic environment for women at the company. The memo cited numerous incidents of Weinstein harassing or coercing women who worked for him. She expressed fear that Weinstein was using her and other female employees to facilitate liaisons with vulnerable women who hope he will get them work. That same year, Weinstein allegedly reached a settlement with OConnor Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Kate Beckinsale The actor, who starred in the Weinstein Company films Serendipity and The Aviator, alleges that she was invited to Weinsteins hotel room at the age of just 17. When she approached the door, the producer reportedly greeted her dressed in just a dressing gown. I was incredibly naive and young and it did not cross my mind that this older, unattractive man would expect me to have any sexual interest in him, she wrote on Instagram. After declining alcohol and announcing that I had school in the morning I left, uneasy but unscathed. Theo Wargo/Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Gwyneth Paltrow The actor alleges that after he cast her in the title role of the film Emma when she was 22, he took her to his hotel room, placed his hands on her and suggested massages. I was a kid, I was signed up, I was petrified, Paltrow told the New York Times. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Asia Argento Italian actress Asia Argento has alleged that in 1997 Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her as she repeatedly told him to stop. When I see him, it makes me feel little and stupid and weak, Argento told The New Yorker. After the rape, he won. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Cara Delevigne The British model and actress penning an Instagram post claiming that Weinstein had ordered her to kiss another woman in his hotel room, and tried to kiss her on the lips. AFP/Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ashley Judd Ashley Judd said she rebuffed Harvey Weinsteins unwanted sexual advances by offering to consent only after she had won an Oscar. When she was initially invited to a meeting with Weinstein, Judd said, she was surprised to learn the producer was in his hotel room - a tactic that recurs in other womens accounts. Echoing the accounts of other women, Judd said Weinstein suggested she give him a massage and then invited her to watch him shower. After a volley of nos she said she would only after she wins an Oscar, fleeing after making the comments. Reuters/Mike Segar Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Judith Godreche French actress Judith Godreche said when she was 24 Weinstein invited her to his hotel room and asked to give her a massage. The next thing I know, hes pressing against me and pulling off my sweater, she told the New York Times. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mira Sorvino The Oscar-winning actor said she found herself in a hotel room with Weinstein in 1995 where he started massaging my shoulders, which made me very uncomfortable, and then tried to get more physical, sort of chasing me around. According to an interview in The New Yorker Weinstein subsequently arrived at her apartment late at night and she had to call a friend to come over to pose as her boyfriend in order to get Weinstein out of the house. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Katherine Kendall The actress said Weinstein undressed and chased her around a living room when she was just 23. She subsequently felt that telling others meant Ill never work again and no one is going to care or believe me, she told the New York Times. WireImage Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Tomi-Anne Roberts As an aspiring actress and working in a restaurant in New York, Tomi-Ann Roberts encountered Weinstein who encouraged her to audition for one of his films back in 1984. She subsequently went to meet him and found him naked in the bath and invited her to get naked and get into the bath with him, she told the New York Times. She said she left feeling manipulated. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Myleen Klass It has also been alleged that the disgraced film producer propositioned Myleene Klass with a sex contract at Cannes Film Festival in 2010. One of the singer and television personalitys friends reportedly told The Sun, Klass had told Weinstein to f*** off. Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Sophie Dix Sophie Dix, best known for her role as Captain Sadie Williams in Soldier Soldier, described her encounter with Weinstein when she was 23 as the single most damaging thing thats happened in my life. She told The Guardian Weinstein had pushed her to her bed and was tugging at her clothes. She rushed to the bathroom to escape, but when she came out she found him standing there masturbating. I quickly closed the door again and locked it, she said. Then when I heard room service come to the door I just ran. Rex Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lea Seydoux The actor and director claims she had to fight off Weinstein after he brought her to his hotel room during what she remembers to be 2012. He suddenly jumped on me and tried to kiss me. I had to defend myself. Hes big and fat, so I had to be forceful to resist him. I left his room, thoroughly disgusted, she wrote in The Guardian. AFP/Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Claire Forlani British actress Claire Forlani wrote on Twitter that she had evaded Weinsteins advances on five occasions at the age of 25. At meetings with the Hollywood a-lister, she says massage was suggested, and that Weinstein had boasted of all the women hed had sex with. Mark Douet Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Florence Darel French actress Florence Darel claimed Weinstein relentlessly pursued her in the mid 1990's and propositioned her while Eve Chilton, his wife at the time, was in the hotel room next door. I was astonished, she told People magazine. When you have someone so physically disgusting in front of you, continuing and continuing as though this was all perfectly normal What happened to me may not be illegal but it was inappropriate. Very inappropriate. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lysette Anthony Lysette Anthony, who starred as Marnie Nightingale in Hollyoaks, has claimed Weinstein raped her in the late 1980's after turning up to her London home in the late 1980s. She described the disgraced film producers alleged attack as pathetic and revolting and said it left her feeling disgusted and embarrassed. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Dawn Dunning Dunning said she met Weinstein in 2003 when she was 24-years-old and the disgraced film producer suggested she have a threesome with him and someone else. She told the New York Times Weinstein got angry when she refused. Youll never make it in this business, she said he told her as she left. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Rosanna Arquette Rosanna Arquette was already well known for her role in Desperately Seeking Susan, when she said she met Weinstein at his hotel to pick up a script in the early nineties. Weinstein was dressed only in a dressing gown, and tried to put her hand on his erect penis. Speaking to the New York Times, Arquette said as she left she told him: I will never be that girl. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Emma de Caunes Caunes, a French actor, claimed Weinstein took her to his hotel room in 2010 supposedly to retrieve a book he was making into a film, but once there he went into the bathroom. De Caunes said he then emerged naked, with an erection and told her to lie on the bed. She fled the room. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Zoe Brock Model Zoe claimed that she had to lock herself in a bathroom at Weinsteins hotel in 1997, after the mogul had sent all of the assistants out of the room, and then appeared naked. I was alone with Weinstein, she told ITVs This Morning programme. He very quickly left the room and came back naked. He chased me naked. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Jessica Barth Actress Jessica Barth described an encounter with Weinstein in 2011 in an interview with The New Yorker in which she said Weinstein veered between offering her roles in films and demanding a naked massage. She alleges the producer said to her: So, what would happen if, say, were having some champagne and I take my clothes off and you give me a massage? When she tried to leave, he then promised to give her the number of a female executive at the company. He gave me her number, and I walked out and I started bawling, Barth said. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Romola Garai The actress told The Guardian she felt violated after she went to a meeting with Weinstein at the age of 18 and he met her in his hotel room wearing nothing but a dressing gown. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Heather Graham Graham claimed that during a casting opportunity in the early 2000's Weinstein had told her he had an open relationship with his wife. He could sleep with whomever he wanted when he was out of town. I walked out of the meeting feeling uneasy, Graham told Variety. There was no explicit mention that to star in one of those films I had to sleep with him, but the subtext was there. Graham was never hired to work in a Weinstein film. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Jessica Hynes Spaced and W1A star Jessica Hynes tweeted about an encounter with Weinstein earlier this week, but subsequently deleted the tweet. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lucia Evans The actor told The New Yorker that after a meeting to discuss casting her in various projects, Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him. I said, over and over, I dont want to do this, stop, dont. She added: Hes a big guy. He overpowered me. I just sort of gave up. Thats the most horrible part of it, and thats why hes been able to do this for so long to so many women: people give up, and then they feel like its their fault. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Louisette Geiss The former actress said she met Weinstein to pitch a film script she was working on. During the meeting, Weinstein allegedly went out and reappeared naked and got into a jacuzzi where he masturbated in front of her and said he would make the script into a film if she stayed and watched. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Liza Campbell Liza Campbell, a British writer and artist, alleged that Olympically ugly Weinstein asked her to join him in the bath and began getting undressed at a hotel. In a piece for The Times, Campbell claimed she was forced to sprint to the door to escape. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Louise Godbold Writing in a blog post, Louise Godbold, a non-profit director in Los Angeles, said her encounter with Weinstein took the form of an office tour that became an occasion to trap me in an empty meeting room. She said then Weinstein was begging for a massage, his hands on my shoulders as I attempted to beat a retreat. Importantly Ross also explained how she thought she was "protected" by not fitting Hollywood's standards of beauty - but her story confirms what most women know - and what an op-ed by The Big Bang Theory actress Mayim Bialik was criticised for ignoring: sexual assault happens to all women. You can listen to the full interview below: Follow Independent Culture on Facebook 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 }} Drive and The Neon Demon's Nicolas Winding Refn is moving into the streaming platform business. With a difference, however, as byNWR.com will be an entirely free showcase of films from around the world, personally picked from the director's private collection and restored to their full glory. Proclaiming itself as a "cultural expressway for the arts", the site will include a fully restored feature-length film streaming online each month, alongside essays, music, video, and photography and other "cultural ephemera". Furthermore, each quarter will be guest curated by a fellow cultural luminary. Volume 1, entitled 'Regional Renegades: exploitations gems from the Southern US', was overseen by author and journalist Jimmy McDonough. Titles will include the extremely rare 1965 cult film The Nest of the Cuckoo Birds, Joseph P. Mawra's Shanty Tramp, and Dale Barry's Hot Thrills and Warm Chills. Volume 2 will be guest curated by British film magazine Little White Lies and dedicated to forgotten works of American independent cinema, including Night Tide, starring Dennis Hopper. The Neon Demon - Trailer byNWR has come to life thanks to close collaboration between Refn and London-based agency Bureau, with Harvard Film Archive aiding with film restoration, Milan Records with music production, alongside online streaming platform MUBI. MUBI members, in fact, will have exclusive early access to the restored films. There will also be special screenings of the featured films all around the globe. byNWR.com is set to launch in February 2018. Follow Independent Culture on Facebook for all the latest on Film, TV, Music, and more. 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 }} Never Mind The Buzzcocks have shared a touching tribute to former team captain Sean Hughes who passed away yesterday (16 October) at the age of 51. Tributes to the Irish stand-up poured in from across the world of comedy with the music quiz show publishing a compilation of some of Hughes' funniest moments. Hughes, born in London and raised in Dublin, first performed at the Comedy Store in 1987. He went on to win the main prize at the prestigious Perrier Comedy Awards now the Edinburgh Comedy Awards in 1990 for A One Night Stand With Sean Hughes. At 24, Hughes was the youngest comedian ever to win the accolade. Buzzcocks was Hughes' most famous television stint - he appeared as a team captain between 1996 and 2002 alongside Phill Jupitus and host Mark Lamarr. Upon the announcement of Hughes' death, Jupitus paid tribute to his fellow panellist with a photo of the duo, writing: I keep looking at this photo. It feels like a lifetime ago. Another life even. Hughes had been unwell for a while, with his most recent tweet, posted on 8 October, simply reading: In hospital. It was reported that he was admitted to Whittington Hospital with liver cirrhosis, passing away during the night after suffering a cardiac arrest. 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 }} Woody Allen has faced a backlash for expressing support for men who wink at women in the workplace in the wake of Harvey Weinsteins sex abuse scandal. Allen was forced to backtrack last week after saying he felt sad for the Hollywood film producer who is facing rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment allegations. The director, who was accused of molesting his adopted daughter but has strongly denied the claims, released a stronger statement afterwards clarifying that he felt sorry for Weinstein because he is a sad, sick, man. Allen has also sparked fierce criticism for saying he hoped the Weinstein allegations would not lead to a witch hunt atmosphere in the world of work in which winking at a woman becomes wholly unacceptable. He said: You also dont want it to lead to a witch-hunt atmosphere, a Salem atmosphere, where every guy in an office who winks at a woman is suddenly having to call a lawyer to defend himself. The remarks prompted fury on Twitter and critics of Allen argued that winking female colleagues in the workplace should never be tolerable. Actually don't wink at women at work. Simple rule: if you wouldn't want a dude doing it to you in prison, don't do it to a woman at work, said Twitter user, Jenny Thompson. Bizarre but not unexpected comment from Woody Allen about men not being able to wink at women at work. Why would you wink at a colleague? asked another. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Show all 42 1 /42 Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Harvey Weinstein Harry Weinsteins reputation as one of Hollywoods leading executives was long cemented in stone. The acclaimed movie mogul, who produced Oscar-winning films Shakespeare in Love, The English Patient, and The Artist, clocked up box office successes and accolades aplenty. But this has quickly changed since a chorus of women have come forward to accuse the Hollywood producer of sexual harassment and assault. Since the New York Times bombshell report disclosed sexual harassment and rape allegations against the film mogul dating back decades, Weinstein has been fired from his namesake company, expelled from the Oscars and has had his wife leave him. Weinstein has apologised for having caused a lot of pain but has denied all allegations of nonconsensual sex. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Annabella Sciorra The Sopranos actor alleged Weinstein raped her after shooting The Night We Never Met, a 1993 movie that Weinstein produced. Similar to the stories told by other women, Weinstein drove the actor home, only to reportedly burst into Sciorra's apartment and start unbuttoning his shirt. He shoved me onto the bed, and he got on top of me, Sciorra said. I kicked and I yelled. Weinstein then allegedly locked her arms and forced sexual intercourse on her. After the incident, Sciorra found it increasingly hard to get work, many filmmakers saying 'We heard you were difficult', something the actor claims was because of the 'Weinstein-machine'. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Natassia Malthe The model and actress, who has appeared in around 50 films, said she met Weinstein at a BAFTA after party in 2008 while she was working as a spokeswoman for LG. She told a press conference in New York that she felt pressured into telling Weinstein she was staying at the Sanderson Hotel after being put on the spot. Malthe, now 43, said after her shift on February 10 she went back to her room and went to sleep, but was awoken by "repeated pounding" on her door, from someone yelling: "Open the door Natassia Malthe, it's Harvey Weinstein." Feeling humiliated, she said she opened the door. She alleged Weinstein began implying sex would get her a role in an upcoming film while semi-undressed and then he began to masturbate. "I was sitting on the bed talking to Harvey when he pushed me back and forced himself onto me. It was not consensual. He did not use a condom," she said. AP Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Sean Young The actor, best known for her role in Ridley Scott's Blade Runner, said that Weinstein exposed himself to her in the early 1990s, when she was starring in the Miramax-produced Love Crimes - a production company that Weinstein headed at the time. "I personally experienced him pulling his you-know-what out of his pants to shock me," she said. "My basic response was, 'You know, Harvey, I really dont think you should be pulling that thing out, its not very pretty.'" Young never worked with Weinstein again after the incident. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mimi Haleyi Mimi Haleyi said she was assaulted by Weinstein in what appeared to be a child's bedroom in his New York City apartment in 2006 when she was in her 20s. She said she was aspiring to work in television and film production when she was first introduced to him at the London premiere of The Aviator around two years earlier and he helped her get experience on the set of a TV show being produced by The Weinstein Company. But, she added, he repeatedly hassled her and even tried to force himself through her front door in an effort to get her to join him on a trip to Paris. At one point he allegedly forcibly performed oral sex on an aspiring production assistant while she was on her period. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lupita Nyong'o In an op-ed for The New York Times, the Oscar-winning actor said she was invited to Weinsteins family home in Connecticut on the premise of watching a film shortly after they met in 2011. But she said shortly after it started he "insisted" in front of his children that she follow him and she was led to his bedroom. The Kenyan-Mexican actress, now 34, said she felt pressured into giving him a massage after he offered her one. "Before long he said he wanted to take off his pants," she wrote."I told him not to do that and informed him that it would make me extremely uncomfortable. He got up anyway to do so and I headed for the door, saying that I was not at all comfortable with that." Over the years that followed, he continued to get in touch, Nyong'o said, and when she declined another proposition she felt her career was threatened. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lena Headey Writing on social media, the Game of Thrones actor claims she first met Weinstein at the Venice Film Festival in 2005 where, after taking her for a walk by the water, he made some suggestive comment and gesture. Headey claims she bumped into Weinstein years later where he kept asking her questions about her love life. She alleges that, when Weinstein invited her to his hotel room to show her a script, the "energy shifted. The actor notes how, after saying she was not interesting in anything but the work, Weinstein was furious, apparently marching her back to a lift, "grabbing and holding tightly to the back of [her] arm." She claims that, after paying for her car, he whispered in her ear: "Don't tell anyone about this, not your manager, not your agent. Headey finished the post, writing: I got in the car and I cried. Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lucia Evans The actor told The New Yorker that after a meeting to discuss casting her in various projects, Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him. I said, over and over, I dont want to do this, stop, dont. She added: Hes a big guy. He overpowered me. I just sort of gave up. Thats the most horrible part of it, and thats why hes been able to do this for so long to so many women: people give up, and then they feel like its their fault. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Laura Madden Madden, a production assistant who worked at Miramax for a decade, told the Times that Weinstein allegedly prodded her for massages at hotels, a common theme among the sources the Timess reporters spoke with. On one occasion, she claims she locked herself in his hotel bathroom, sobbing Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ashley Judd Judd recounted for the Times how Weinstein allegedly harassed her while she was filming Kiss the Girls in 1996, inviting her to his hotel room and asking her for a massage, then inviting her to watch him shower. Judd first went public with the allegations in a 2015 interview with Variety during which she discussed the experience without naming the producer involved. She described Weinsteins alleged behaviour as coercive bargaining; I said no, a lot of ways, a lot of times, and he always came back at me with some new ask, she told the Times AFP/Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Rose McGowan McGowan reportedly reached a previously undisclosed $100,000 settlement with Weinstein in 1997, over an incident that occurred in a hotel room Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mimi Haleyi Mimi Haleyi said she was assaulted by Weinstein in what appeared to be a child's bedroom in his New York City apartment in 2006 when she was in her 20s. She said she was aspiring to work in television and film production when she was first introduced to him at the London premiere of The Aviator around two years earlier and he helped her get experience on the set of a TV show being produced by The Weinstein Company. But, she added, he repeatedly hassled her and even tried to force himself through her front door in an effort to get her to join him on a trip to Paris. At one point he allegedly forcibly performed oral sex on an aspiring production assistant while she was on her period. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Emily Nestor Nestor had been temping at the Weinstein Company for only one day in 2014 when Weinstein allegedly offered to boost her career in return for sexual favours, according to the Times. She declined and reportedly complained of his behaviour to colleagues, who later passed the information on to senior executives. An internal Weinstein Company document cited by the Times describes Nestors encounter with Weinstein as follows: She said he was very persistent and focused though she kept saying no for over an hour Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ambra Battilana In March 2015, Battilana, an aspiring model and actress, was reportedly summoned to Weinsteins office on a Friday night to discuss her career. According to a police report cited by the Times, Battilana claimed she was assaulted by Weinstein, who grabbed her breasts after asking if they were real and put his hands up her skirt. Weinstein later claimed that Battilana had set him up, according to colleagues of his who were interviewed by the Times. The Manhattan District Attorney, Cyrus Vance, later declined to press charges, and according to the Times, made a payment to Battilana. On 5 October, the International Business Times reported that after Vance dropped the charges, he received $10,000 from Weinsteins lawyer Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lauren OConnor Lauren OConnor, an employee of the Weinstein Company, penned a memo to executives alleging a toxic environment for women at the company. The memo cited numerous incidents of Weinstein harassing or coercing women who worked for him. She expressed fear that Weinstein was using her and other female employees to facilitate liaisons with vulnerable women who hope he will get them work. That same year, Weinstein allegedly reached a settlement with OConnor Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Kate Beckinsale The actor, who starred in the Weinstein Company films Serendipity and The Aviator, alleges that she was invited to Weinsteins hotel room at the age of just 17. When she approached the door, the producer reportedly greeted her dressed in just a dressing gown. I was incredibly naive and young and it did not cross my mind that this older, unattractive man would expect me to have any sexual interest in him, she wrote on Instagram. After declining alcohol and announcing that I had school in the morning I left, uneasy but unscathed. Theo Wargo/Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Gwyneth Paltrow The actor alleges that after he cast her in the title role of the film Emma when she was 22, he took her to his hotel room, placed his hands on her and suggested massages. I was a kid, I was signed up, I was petrified, Paltrow told the New York Times. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Asia Argento Italian actress Asia Argento has alleged that in 1997 Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her as she repeatedly told him to stop. When I see him, it makes me feel little and stupid and weak, Argento told The New Yorker. After the rape, he won. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Cara Delevigne The British model and actress penning an Instagram post claiming that Weinstein had ordered her to kiss another woman in his hotel room, and tried to kiss her on the lips. AFP/Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Ashley Judd Ashley Judd said she rebuffed Harvey Weinsteins unwanted sexual advances by offering to consent only after she had won an Oscar. When she was initially invited to a meeting with Weinstein, Judd said, she was surprised to learn the producer was in his hotel room - a tactic that recurs in other womens accounts. Echoing the accounts of other women, Judd said Weinstein suggested she give him a massage and then invited her to watch him shower. After a volley of nos she said she would only after she wins an Oscar, fleeing after making the comments. Reuters/Mike Segar Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Judith Godreche French actress Judith Godreche said when she was 24 Weinstein invited her to his hotel room and asked to give her a massage. The next thing I know, hes pressing against me and pulling off my sweater, she told the New York Times. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Mira Sorvino The Oscar-winning actor said she found herself in a hotel room with Weinstein in 1995 where he started massaging my shoulders, which made me very uncomfortable, and then tried to get more physical, sort of chasing me around. According to an interview in The New Yorker Weinstein subsequently arrived at her apartment late at night and she had to call a friend to come over to pose as her boyfriend in order to get Weinstein out of the house. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Katherine Kendall The actress said Weinstein undressed and chased her around a living room when she was just 23. She subsequently felt that telling others meant Ill never work again and no one is going to care or believe me, she told the New York Times. WireImage Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Tomi-Anne Roberts As an aspiring actress and working in a restaurant in New York, Tomi-Ann Roberts encountered Weinstein who encouraged her to audition for one of his films back in 1984. She subsequently went to meet him and found him naked in the bath and invited her to get naked and get into the bath with him, she told the New York Times. She said she left feeling manipulated. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Myleen Klass It has also been alleged that the disgraced film producer propositioned Myleene Klass with a sex contract at Cannes Film Festival in 2010. One of the singer and television personalitys friends reportedly told The Sun, Klass had told Weinstein to f*** off. Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Sophie Dix Sophie Dix, best known for her role as Captain Sadie Williams in Soldier Soldier, described her encounter with Weinstein when she was 23 as the single most damaging thing thats happened in my life. She told The Guardian Weinstein had pushed her to her bed and was tugging at her clothes. She rushed to the bathroom to escape, but when she came out she found him standing there masturbating. I quickly closed the door again and locked it, she said. Then when I heard room service come to the door I just ran. Rex Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lea Seydoux The actor and director claims she had to fight off Weinstein after he brought her to his hotel room during what she remembers to be 2012. He suddenly jumped on me and tried to kiss me. I had to defend myself. Hes big and fat, so I had to be forceful to resist him. I left his room, thoroughly disgusted, she wrote in The Guardian. AFP/Getty Images Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Claire Forlani British actress Claire Forlani wrote on Twitter that she had evaded Weinsteins advances on five occasions at the age of 25. At meetings with the Hollywood a-lister, she says massage was suggested, and that Weinstein had boasted of all the women hed had sex with. Mark Douet Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Florence Darel French actress Florence Darel claimed Weinstein relentlessly pursued her in the mid 1990's and propositioned her while Eve Chilton, his wife at the time, was in the hotel room next door. I was astonished, she told People magazine. When you have someone so physically disgusting in front of you, continuing and continuing as though this was all perfectly normal What happened to me may not be illegal but it was inappropriate. Very inappropriate. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lysette Anthony Lysette Anthony, who starred as Marnie Nightingale in Hollyoaks, has claimed Weinstein raped her in the late 1980's after turning up to her London home in the late 1980s. She described the disgraced film producers alleged attack as pathetic and revolting and said it left her feeling disgusted and embarrassed. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Dawn Dunning Dunning said she met Weinstein in 2003 when she was 24-years-old and the disgraced film producer suggested she have a threesome with him and someone else. She told the New York Times Weinstein got angry when she refused. Youll never make it in this business, she said he told her as she left. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Rosanna Arquette Rosanna Arquette was already well known for her role in Desperately Seeking Susan, when she said she met Weinstein at his hotel to pick up a script in the early nineties. Weinstein was dressed only in a dressing gown, and tried to put her hand on his erect penis. Speaking to the New York Times, Arquette said as she left she told him: I will never be that girl. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Emma de Caunes Caunes, a French actor, claimed Weinstein took her to his hotel room in 2010 supposedly to retrieve a book he was making into a film, but once there he went into the bathroom. De Caunes said he then emerged naked, with an erection and told her to lie on the bed. She fled the room. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Zoe Brock Model Zoe claimed that she had to lock herself in a bathroom at Weinsteins hotel in 1997, after the mogul had sent all of the assistants out of the room, and then appeared naked. I was alone with Weinstein, she told ITVs This Morning programme. He very quickly left the room and came back naked. He chased me naked. Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Jessica Barth Actress Jessica Barth described an encounter with Weinstein in 2011 in an interview with The New Yorker in which she said Weinstein veered between offering her roles in films and demanding a naked massage. She alleges the producer said to her: So, what would happen if, say, were having some champagne and I take my clothes off and you give me a massage? When she tried to leave, he then promised to give her the number of a female executive at the company. He gave me her number, and I walked out and I started bawling, Barth said. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Romola Garai The actress told The Guardian she felt violated after she went to a meeting with Weinstein at the age of 18 and he met her in his hotel room wearing nothing but a dressing gown. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Heather Graham Graham claimed that during a casting opportunity in the early 2000's Weinstein had told her he had an open relationship with his wife. He could sleep with whomever he wanted when he was out of town. I walked out of the meeting feeling uneasy, Graham told Variety. There was no explicit mention that to star in one of those films I had to sleep with him, but the subtext was there. Graham was never hired to work in a Weinstein film. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Jessica Hynes Spaced and W1A star Jessica Hynes tweeted about an encounter with Weinstein earlier this week, but subsequently deleted the tweet. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Lucia Evans The actor told The New Yorker that after a meeting to discuss casting her in various projects, Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him. I said, over and over, I dont want to do this, stop, dont. She added: Hes a big guy. He overpowered me. I just sort of gave up. Thats the most horrible part of it, and thats why hes been able to do this for so long to so many women: people give up, and then they feel like its their fault. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Louisette Geiss The former actress said she met Weinstein to pitch a film script she was working on. During the meeting, Weinstein allegedly went out and reappeared naked and got into a jacuzzi where he masturbated in front of her and said he would make the script into a film if she stayed and watched. Getty Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Liza Campbell Liza Campbell, a British writer and artist, alleged that Olympically ugly Weinstein asked her to join him in the bath and began getting undressed at a hotel. In a piece for The Times, Campbell claimed she was forced to sprint to the door to escape. Rex Features Harvey Weinstein: his accusers Louise Godbold Writing in a blog post, Louise Godbold, a non-profit director in Los Angeles, said her encounter with Weinstein took the form of an office tour that became an occasion to trap me in an empty meeting room. She said then Weinstein was begging for a massage, his hands on my shoulders as I attempted to beat a retreat. Also men please stop winking at women at work. Its unwelcome and usually combined with other inappropriate behaviour. If you need to call a lawyer youve done more than 'wink' and you know it, added one more. Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up In Allens initial statement about Weinstein, he claimed he had heard rumours about the movie mogul but not these horror stories. No one ever came to me or told me horror stories with any real seriousness, the Midnight In Paris director told the BBC. And they wouldnt, because you are not interested in it. You are interested in making your movie. But you do hear a million fanciful rumours all the time. And some turn out to be true and some many are just stories about this actress, or that actor. The whole Harvey Weinstein thing is very sad for everybody involved, he added. Tragic for the poor women that were involved, sad for Harvey that is life is so messed up. Theres no winners in that, its just very, very sad and tragic for those poor women that had to go through that. After stoking controversy, Allen was forced to backtrack, saying: "When I said I felt sad for Harvey Weinstein I thought it was clear the meaning was because he is a sad, sick man. "I was surprised it was treated differently. Lest there be any ambiguity, this statement clarifies my intentions and feelings." Recommended How the Weinstein scandal shone a light on bad feminists Weinstein was credited with helping Allen restore his career after he was accused of abusing Dylan Farrow, his daughter with actress Mia Farrow The allegation emerged in the early 1990s after the couple separated, after Mia Farrow discovered that Allen was having an affair with her adopted daughter, Soon-Yi Previn. More than 40 women have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct. Police forces in both the US and the UK have announced that they are investigating allegations made against the film mogul. Weinstein denies any accusations of non-consensual sex. "Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr Weinstein. Mr Weinstein has further confirmed that there were never any acts of retaliation against any women for refusing his advances," his spokesperson told The Independent in a statement. Sign up to Roisin OConnors free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Roisin OConnors email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} On this day in 1989, Capital EMI Records released the eponymous debut solo album by Latina singing sensation Selena Quintanilla (1971-1995), an occasion commemorated in todays Google Doodle. Selena was a hit and popularised the Tejano (or "Tex-Mex") genre in the early 90s, a seamless blending of contemporary American pop with the passionate vocal approach of Mexicos folk tradition. Quintanilla went on to become a beloved crossover artist and sex symbol, adored by both American and Mexican audiences and hailed as multicultural role model, until her tragic death - aged just 23 - brought an abrupt end to a promising career. Here are five things you may not know about Selena. 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 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Her first band was managed by her father and included her brother and sister Born in Lake Jackson, Texas, on 16 April 1971 to a family with Mexican, American and Cherokee heritage, Selena impressed her father - Abraham Quintanilla Jr - with her voice at a young age by singing Nat King Coles Im in the Mood for Love. When his restaurant business went bankrupt in 1980 in the wake of the states oil glut, Quintanilla Jr formed a band around his youngest daughter and her older siblings - Selena y Los Dinos - serving as manager. Selena sang, her brother A.B. played bass and her sister Suzette was on drums. The group hit the road, against the advice of Selenas teachers, and her musical career began. 2. She learned Spanish phonetically to pay homage to her roots Continuing to tour throughout her education and risking exhaustion Selena nevertheless enrolled at Pacific Western University aged 17 to study Business Administration. Recommended Selena to be honoured posthumously on Hollywood Walk of Fame Selena y Los Dinos recorded their first album in 1984, with Selena encouraged by her father to sing Tejeno, a Mexican genre melding elements of polka, jazz and country, rather than English language pop songs. This involved her learning Spanish phonetically under her fathers guidance, an arduous and difficult process but one that ultimately enabled her to bring a powerful new female voice into a traditionally male-dominated scene. As recognition grew, Selena released five further records before making her major label bow as part of Capitals EMI Latin line-up. Enjoy unlimited access to 70 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up 3. Selena and her lover Chris Perez were forced to elope Selenas success brought stardom and she was soon known as the next Gloria Estefan and the Mexican Madonna, courted by Coca-Cola as a spokesperson. Her best known songs from the period remain Bidi Bidi Bom Bom, Techno Cumbia, Como La Flor, Si Una Vez and Amor Prohibido. By the time of her third album, Entre A Mi Mundo (1992), Quintanilla had begun a relationship with new guitarist Chris Perez, a match her father disapproved of for fear it would destabilise her career. The couple were eventually forced to elope to evade her familys objections and married in secret. 4. She was murdered by the president of her own fan club Selena was killed in Corpus Christi, Texas, by her business partner Yolanda Saldivar on 31 March 1995. The latter ran Quintanillas chain of merchandise boutiques and was known to be fiercely devoted to the pop star, firing anyone she took exception to. When Abraham Quintanilla Jr confronted Saldivar over the mismanagement of the familys retail operations, it emerged that she had embezzled $30,000 taking fan club membership fees from young girls and sending nothing in return. Selena eventually confronted Saldivar over the return of the business's financial records. In the argument that followed, Salvidar shot and killed Selena before fleeing, inspiring a dramatic police chase before she was eventually arrested. Such was the public outpouring of grief at the news that then-Texas Governor George W. Bush declared 16 April her birthday - Selena Day in her honour. 5. Jennifer Lopez starred in her biopic Selena Quintanillas life was celebrated in a Warner Brothers biopic starring Jennifer Lopez in 1997, directed by Gregory Nava. Just prior to her death, she had filmed her own movie debut, taking a small cameo role in Jeremy Leven's Don Juan DeMarco, starring Johnny Depp, Marlon Brando and Faye Dunaway. The movie was released posthumously. Selena Quintanilla is fondly remembered for her music to this day and stands as an icon of positive US-Mexican relations, a vivacious personality whose legacy is utterly at odds with Donald Trumps plan to build a border wall in her home state to keep the two countries apart. 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 return of Han Solo? In a video posted to Twitter, director Ron Howard teased a new Star Wars instalment focused on the iconic character. After tweeting that production had just wrapped, Mr Howard unveiled a sign with the upcoming film's apparent title. I'll see you next year, he said. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Show all 46 1 /46 Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Here we are, the new Star Wars trailer! Kicking things off is Kylo Ren looking over something being built by the First Order. Look closely and you can just about spot some AT-STs lurking around. Over the top we hear Snoke: When I found you Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Some of the new-look AT-ATs, now known as AT-M6. Seeing as the original initials stood for All Terrain Armoured Transport, these new beasts known as the All Terrain MegaCaliber Six. Not quite as catchy but sure to sell a few more toys. Above them is Kylos Upsilon-class command shuttle. Anyway, were on Crait, a mineral planet which once housed the Rebel Alliance base during the Galactic Civil War. We later see Leia here, the General having decided to bring the Resistance to the planet. Were sure to see a large battle here, perhaps like the opening of Empire Strikes Back? Snoke, who we presume is talking about Kylo, continues: I saw raw Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Untamed power. Snokes grizzled voice echoes out as Kylo marches into battle. Thanks to the red, we presume the villain is still on Crait. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown and beyond that Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown something truly special Where exactly this shot fits into the timeline remains unclear. Were also not sure where this ominous red-room is. Twin Peaks? More likely Snokes throne room, considering there are two of his Elite Praetorian Guards behind the lightsaber. Seeing as Snokes talking about why he chose Kylo as an apprentice, could this be a flashback? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Just as Snoke finishes saying special we suddenly cut to Rey on Ahch-To, wielding Lukes weapon. Could Snoke have actually been speaking to her? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown The handing of the baton. Turns out Luke did take the lightsaber at the end of The Force Awakens! Rey says: Something inside of me has always been there Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Lukes in unhappy shock. Angry? Annoyed? What Luke?!?! Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Rey approaches a haunted looking tree. Now, weve actually seen this before, but not on film. During Marvels tie-in comic called Shattered Empire which takes place moments after Return of the Jedi we see Poe Damerons mother rescue a Force-sensitive tree. She takes one part of the tree while Luke takes the other. Turns out, that tree has something of a big part to play. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown but not its awake. The Force has truly awoken inside of Rey, after being hidden there for some time. Inside the tree, we see a book, possibly the Journal of the Whills. Originally created by George Lucas as a plot device, the journal was intended to contain all of the Jedi adventures. Come the novelisation of The Force Awakens and the journal was made canon. The question is, whats Luke doing with it? Learning about the ways of the Jedi? Has Luke decided their should be no Jedi because whenever the Jedi exist, so do the Sith? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Some stunning shots of Rey trailing on Ahch-To. Rey continues: and I need help. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Cinematographer Steve Yedlin, who previously worked with Rian Johnson on Looper, has done a amazing job. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Luke looks highly concerned as Rey begins tearing apart the island with the Force. Again, another similarity to Empire: were seeing Luke fulfil the Yoda role, training Rey. However, this time, theres fear in Lukes heart. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Another great shot, previously seen in the first trailer, showing off Reys strength. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Ive seen this raw strength only once before Luke is completely shaken by Reys strength. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown It didnt scare me enough then An extended version of the flashback seen during The Force Awakens when Rey touches the lightsaber for the first time. Lukes seen Kylo Ren, then Ben Solo, destroy an entire Jedi order before. Seeing someone with those abilities once more can only mean something bads going to happen. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown It does now. Another scene from the flashback. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Just to make sure we know who Lukes referring to, a shot of Kylo Ren looking very Darth Vader. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown A new look at Kylos scare, caused by Rey during Episode VIIs final battle. Let the past diem the messed up young man says while smashing a wall. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Kylos flying off into battle. Could he be aiming to literally kill the past off and murder another parent? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown The kid obviously has his grandfathers piloting skills. Hes driving the newly tweaked TIE silencer towards Leias main ship. Has the battle on Crait already happened and theyve had to leave? Or have they landed on the planet because of the aerial attack? We hear Kylo say Kill it if you have to, aimed at his mother? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown A few shots of the late Carrie Fisher as Leia. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown From the intertwining shots of Leia and Kylo, theres a connection between the two, perhaps even some sort of communication? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Thats the only way you will become what you meant to be, says Kylo as his ship locks onto, then fires, at Leia. The General cant die, surely? They wouldnt spoil that in the trailer? The question here, really, is who is Kylo talking to? Presumably, considering the final moments of the trailer, Rey. By saying kill the past, can we assume Kylos telling Rey to kill her new mentor and join the Dark side? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Here comes the Millenium Falcon. Are we on Crait once more? Has Chewy gone to help the Resistance? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Ah, the Porgs. The most GIFable moment from the trailer. Toy shops are stocking up now as these are bound to become best sellers. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Poe Damerons back and under fire. He looks almost surprised at the attack. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown We have to assume hes heading out to meet Kylo and defend General Leia from the oncoming attack. We have a spark, that will light the fire, that will burn the First Order down, says Poe. Whats the spark, though? Defeating someone in battle? Finding Luke? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Meanwhile, Captain Phasmas also back Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown And battling Finn. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown These shots are amazing. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Wow. Hopefully Phasma will actually have something interesting to do this time around. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown BB-8! But the guy has been hit. Poor BB-8. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Luke looks terrified once more, as if struck down by someone. Has Rey turned on the mentor? Or has Kylo arrived and beaten Luke? Were still on Ach-To, so can we presume Kylo finds a way to find the Skywalker(s)? This is not going to go the way you think, the fallen Jedi says. Referring to Rey or Kylo? Likely the latter, who turned to the dark side, but who knows. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Another new creature, sure to sell a few toys. Back on Criat again. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Big door, mysterious character. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Its Leia, looking remarkably sad. Has Kylo finally come for her? She looks like an upset mother, for sure. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Reys let her hair down, styling her new Jedi look. She seems to be chasing Luke as he runs away. Or perhaps just more training. Or running away from Kylo? We have a lot of questions Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown A shot of Finn, captured by the First Order. What fate awaits the former Storm Trooper? Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Another look at the First Order, looking ready to great a powerful figure, likely Snoke. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown The battle of Crait will surely be another brilliant Star Wars set piece. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Now, heres something really interesting: a first look at Supreme Leader Snoke, who is nether a giant nor a hologram. The character is even wearing a golden outfit. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Whats this! Hes torturing Rey! Has she been captured by Kylo?! Does that mean Luke has fallen?! Fulfil your destiny, the Dark Lord says, likely trying to persuade Rey to accept her fate as a powerful warrior for evil, rather than good. Will she turn to the Dark side?! Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Rey: I need someone to show me my place in all this. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown Kylo. Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer - shot-by-shot breakdown An outstretched hand. Kylo asking Rey to join the evil cause? Are we going to see Rey turn evil? Or perhaps become the first Grey Jedi, one who balances good and evil? Whatever the case, were hugely excited for the film, which touches down 15 December. The film has taken a winding road to completion. Mr Howard took over as a replacement to Phil Lord and Chris Miller, who had reportedly been clashing with producer Kathleen Kennedy. Among the changes Mr Howard instituted was cutting actor Michael Kenneth Williams, best known for portraying Omar on The Wire. A new Star Wars movie - not a spinoff like the Han Solo picture but a continuation of the central saga - is due out this year. It is entitled The Last Jedi. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Along with hair scrunchies, ripped jeans and body glitter, hoop earrings are, to many people, simply a current fashion trend. To others, however, they carry a lot more meaning, and one woman has now called out hoop earrings as a form of cultural appropriation. Ruby Pivet is a Latina writer who has suggested that hoop earrings should be seen in the same light as bindis, braids and Native American headdresses. Recommended Indigenous advocates call on UN to make cultural appropriation illegal Hoops exist across many minority groups as symbols of resistance, strength and identity, she wrote for Vice. I was three years old when my paternal grandparents visited Australia for the first time, the gift of hoop earrings in tow. Much to my grandmothers horror, my ears were un-pierced. During her visit, that changed. I began to navigate the world as a first generation Australian of mixed heritage, small gold hoops dangling from my earlobes. In the UK, hoop earrings certainly havent always been seen as particularly fashionable items - who can forget Catherine Tates chavvy schoolgirl character Lauren from the early noughties, who was always sporting large hoop earrings to accessorise her school uniform? But in recent years, theyve been given a new lease of life by edgy, young, stylish women, many of whom are white. In the grand scheme of things, hoop earrings may seem insignificant, Pivet says. But seeing white women wearing them is unnerving. White girls did not start the trend of over-sized hoop earrings and yet theyre the ones being praised for donning the edgy style. Meanwhile, women of colour who wear them face racial stereotypes or the assumption that theyre participating in a disposable trend. Taylor Swift in her video for Shake It Off She explains how last month, Vogue decreed that wearing gold hoops with an up-do was the ultimate summer pairing. The fashion bible said that the trend had been started by a group of mainly white models too. A style that links so heavily with identity is not taken seriously until it is seen on a white woman, Pivet writes. Shes by no means the only one to feel this way. In March this year, three Latina students sparked controversy when they painted a mural asking white classmates to stop wearing hoops at their college near LA. Because its cute and aesthetic when they wear hoop earrings, but its ghetto and hard for us to be taken seriously when black and brown bodies wear them, one of the students responsible for the writing, Alegria Martinez, wrote on her Instagram account. White girls, take off your hoops, stop calling yourself mami and start respecting our existence. Recommended Katy Perry apologises for cultural appropriation in past music video But the mural was met with much confusion on the part of white people. Women of colour from all walks of life and cultures have been wearing hoops long before white models whose careers were born of nepotism wore them in Instagram posts, Pivet says. Its only a matter of time before latinx style gets stale and hoops are declared over in favour of a new accessory. Sign up to IndyEat's free newsletter for weekly recipes, foodie features and cookbook releases Get our Now Hear This email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyEats email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Anyone who has puckered their lips in horror while drinking a cheap, acrid glass of white wine will know that not all drinks are created equal. But for those of us who arent experts, attempting to navigate the wine jargon of legs and punts in the quest for a decent, good value tipple can send us reaching for a bottom-shelf plonk in desperation. So, in aid of democratising getting tipsy on top-notch vino, weve asked some wine experts to highlight and debunk the biggest myths about wine. Forget everything you think you know about wine; from only pairing meats with red to shunning screw caps. Legs = better quality Some folks look at the slow dribble of wine oozing down the side of the glass we call this the legs once its been swirled and assume the bigger the legs the better the quality, comments The Independents wine and spirits columnist and brand ambassador for the Vivino wine app Adrian Smith. In actual fact its just a higher concentration of alcohol resulting in the leftover wine sliding down the glass at a slower pace, nothing more. Screw caps mean plonk Nothing quite beats the satisfying Pop! as a cork slides free from a wine bottle. So its understandable that a screw cap is looked down upon a little. But its a myth that a screw cap signals the contents are poor quality. Recommended How wine on tap could change how we drink David Moore, the owner of Michelin-starred London restaurant Pied a Terre says: The one great advantage of a screw top is that the wine cant be corked, this is when the wine is infected and takes a very mouldy smell and taste and cant happen with a screw top. On the down side of screw tops, the wine may be a little tingly with CO2, as the gas cant escape the bottle; giving the bottle a good shake after opening will lift this off the wine. Big dimples means the wine is better quality That dimple in the bottom of a bottle or punt signifies that the manufacturer has spent a bit more money on the bottle. So its reasonable to assume that it correlates with the contents, too. But better than literally the worst wine isnt the standard were trying to hit, now, is it? A deep punt just means the winery has wasted more resources and money on the glass, says Peter Mitchell, a master of wine and director of Jeroboams wine shops in London. What the label tells you is more important than the glass its stuck on. A silver spoon keeps bubbly fresh The idea of this apparent trick is to keep the cool air inside the bottle but it doesnt work (whos keeping their champagne or prosecco for that long, anyway?). What does work, though, is plugging the bottle with a stopper with a vacuum seal, according to Robin Copestick, managing director at i heart Wines. Keep it cold its more likely to retain some of its fizz and will still be drinkable for a day or two, he advises. You need to spend to drink delicious wine The saying you get what you pay for doesnt quite work with good-value wine. Of course, the plonk in the supermarket wont match up to bottles that cost hundreds of pounds, but perfectly quaffable wine is easy to find all over the high street. Smith advises spending around 10 to hit the quality/value sweet spot. Red wine goes best with cheese The tannins in full-bodied red wines are not compatible with the protein in milk products, and strong flavoured cheeses dont need to compete with a full-bodied red wine, says Alexis Jamin, head sommelier at Gravetye Manor in Sussex. Dry white wine is often better suited, or sweet wines can pair beautifully with blue cheese. If youre ever struggling to pair with cheese, the best bet is to go for a wine local to the area the cheese comes from. The world's biggest food fights Show all 11 1 /11 The world's biggest food fights The world's biggest food fights La Tomatina, Bunol, Spain Biel Alino/AFP/Getty Images The world's biggest food fights La Tomatina, Bunol, Spain Biel Alino/AFP/Getty Images The world's biggest food fights La Tomatina, Bunol, Spain Biel Alino/AFP/Getty Images The world's biggest food fights World Custard Pie Championship, Kent Funk Dooby/Flickr The world's biggest food fights World Custard Pie Championship, Kent Funk Dooby/Flickr The world's biggest food fights La Merengada, Vilanova i la Geltru, Spain Ajuntament de Vilanova i la Geltru The world's biggest food fights La Merengada, Vilanova i la Geltru, Spain Ajuntament de Vilanova i la Geltru The world's biggest food fights Battle of the Oranges, Ivrea, Italy Giuseppe Cacace/AFP/Getty Images The world's biggest food fights Battle of the Oranges, Ivrea, Italy Giuseppe Cacace/AFP/Getty Images The world's biggest food fights Clean Monday, Galaxidi, Greece Louisa Gouliamaki/AFP/Getty Images The world's biggest food fights Clean Monday, Galaxidi, Greece Louisa Gouliamaki/AFP/Getty Images Old wine is good wine For those of us not clued up about aged wines, its easy to wrongly equate an older bottle with top-notch drink. But thats not the case. Most wine is produced to be drunk when its released, explains Peter Mitchell. Whilst a small percentage of wine does age well is often not that enjoyable when it is very young, the vast majority of wine today has been made to be ready to drink on release and will not benefit from ageing. Most will keep (if stored properly) for a few years, but few will be as good, let alone have improved. The ageing process is a little more complicated and primarily depends on the quality of the vintage, the characteristic of the varietal and the region of origin or the producer, which isnt always reflective in the cost of the bottle, adds Clement Robert, head sommelier at 2850 Wine Workshop and Kitchen. Many wines on the shelf are best drunk sooner rather than later. Sulphites cause hangovers Sorry, but hangovers are caused by alcohol, not sulphites. Robert points towards claims that low-sulphite wines are hangover-free. Sulphites are used to stabilise and preserve the wine, he says. Low-sulphite wines drunk in excess will give you as sore a head as ever, Im afraid to say. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) Only white wine goes with fish... Some white wines do complement the delicate flavours of certain types of fish, but its certainly not a blanket rule. It all depends on the type of fish youre eating and what sauce comes alongside it, says Smith. Take for example a pan-fried salmon this works perfectly with a Californian Pinot Noir. How about a piece of swordfish? The meaty texture would fit hand in hand with a glass of Merlot. Shrimp in a creamy sauce with pasta? Sangiovese. Theres so many different variations when it comes to wine regardless of the colour, its all about experiencing and learning what works along the way. (Getty) ...and red wine goes with meat A lot of people assume that only heavy reds can stand up to a steak, but youd be surprised what a generously oaked Chardonnay (think Sonoma or Burgundy) can do when put side by side with a juicy hunk of meat. The rich flavours sit beautifully alongside one another and create a fantastically mouth-watering pairing, says Smith. 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 }} Google has gone head-to-head with Apple and Samsung by launching the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, its latest high-end mobiles. They're designed to sit at the top of the smartphone tree, above the likes of the Galaxy S8, Note 8, iPhone 8 and iPhone X, but they're not quite perfect. Here's what you need to know about the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL before you part with your money. Pixel 2: The good Camera Google has, once again, built a phenomenal camera system. The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL both use a 12.2-megapixel sensor with f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilisation. Camera rating firm DxOMark Mobile has awarded the Pixel 2 a score of 98, the highest mark it has ever given to a smartphone, and it isnt hard to see why. Autofocus is slick, and pictures come out looking incredibly well-detailed even in tricky low-light conditions. The Portrait mode, which is unusual on the Pixel 2 in that it relies on only one camera lens rather than two, also works impressively. It artificially adjusts the bokeh in photos by automatically blurring the background, the result being a professional-looking picture that places all the focus on the main subject. Portrait mode is also available on the 8-megapixel selfie camera, which performs equally well. Motion photos are also a neat trick, bringing your photos to life by also capturing video footage you can play. Software The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, unsurprisingly, run Android 8.0 Oreo, the latest version of the mobile operating system. Though it will roll out to a multitude of other smartphones over the coming weeks and months, its actually a key selling point for the Pixel line. Thats because the handsets run a pure version of Android that hasnt been tampered with or spoiled by the addition of unwanted bloatware and strange skins. Its Android as Google intends it to be. Other Android phone makers tend to put their own spin on the software, which can damage the user experience because the tweaks are often designed to promote the companys own apps and services. Major Android updates can also take a long time to come to handsets with software tweaks. That wont be a problem with the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, which will receive updates as soon as they're ready. The new Pixels also come with an early version of Google Lens, an intelligent app that can analyse your pictures and recognise whats in them. Its not quite ready yet, but could be hugely impressive when it is. In a demo earlier this year, Google showed it being used to grab a Wi-Fi username and password from a router. Fingerprint sensor This wouldnt ordinarily be a big talking point, but other phone manufacturers have turned biometrics into a major talking point this year. The fingerprint sensors on Samsungs Galaxy S8 and Note 8 are utterly woeful, being small, shallow, poorly positioned and easy to mistake for the camera lens. Apple, too, has had difficulties in this area, causing outrage when it revealed it had dropped TouchID for FaceID in the upcoming iPhone X. The company has tried to quell consumer fears since the phone's unveiling, but the fact it is yet to hit the market hasnt helped the situation. It is, therefore, relieving to see that Google has equipped the Pixel 2 with a fingerprint sensor thats large, easy to access and slick. It works exactly as it's supposed to. Google Assistant tips and tricks Show all 7 1 /7 Google Assistant tips and tricks Google Assistant tips and tricks Delete everything Google knows about you Google Assistant remembers everything youve used it for and stores the information to do things like remember your interests and give more personalized responses. However, if that makes you uncomfortable, you can see and delete the data by visiting https://myactivity.google.com/myactivity. Google Assistant tips and tricks Disable Okay Google Okay Google and Hey Google are Google Assistants hands-free wake phrases, but you can disable them and instead activate the virtual helper by tapping and holding your phones home button. To turn off Okay Google, tap and hold your phones home button, hit the Explore & Your Stuff icon in the top right of the popup window, select More and then Settings. After that, tap the phone section and disable "OK Google" Detection. Google Assistant tips and tricks Unlock your phone with Okay Google You can also go the other way by giving Google Assistant more control over your phone. You can use one of the wake phrases to actually unlock your phone hands-free, but Google warns that doing this can make your phone less secure, as a similar voice or recording of your own voice could be used to access your device. If youre happy to take the risk, touch and hold your phones home button, tap Explore & Your Stuff, More, Settings and the phone section. Once youve enabled OK Google Detection, you can do the same for Access and Unlock, the option immediately below it. Google Assistant tips and tricks Create shortcuts You can set up Google Assistant shortcuts that can let you streamline your commands. Saying something like workout time, for instance, can be used as a way to get the virtual helper to play music, and goodnight can tell it turn off your lights. To set one up, touch and hold your phones home button, tap Explore & Your Stuff, Your Stuff, Shortcuts and Create New Shortcut. After that, enter the phrase youll say to Google Assistant, and what you want your Google Assistant to do when you use the phrase. If youre in need of inspiration, browse through a list of popular shortcuts by going back to the previous page. Google Assistant tips and tricks Use Assistant through Home Google Assistant is arguably most useful when you access it through Google Home, the companys smart speaker. This is because it can be hooked up to multiple Google accounts and is capable of recognising the different users voices. As well as being good for privacy, this means each member of a household gets an experience that has been personalised to their preferences and interests. To add an account to Home, open the Google Home app, make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the Google Home you want to connect to, tap the Menu icon, Devices and find the device card of the Google Home you'd like to link to your voice. From the device card, tap the blue banner labelled Multi User is Now Available or Link Your Account, hit Continue and follow the prompts to teach Google Home to recognise your voice. To invite other people to link their Google Account & voice for tailored results, tap Invite. Google Assistant tips and tricks Hook up your Spotify and Netflix accounts You can control Spotify through Google Assistant by linking your account to Google Home. Open the Google Home app, hit Menu, Account preferences, Media Accounts and select Spotify. The exact same process applies for your Netflix account. Google Assistant tips and tricks Control what you share Once youve linked your Google Account and voice to a shared Google Home, other people can access your music and video services using Google Assistant voice commands. If youre not comfortable with this, you can ask them to link their own music and video accounts to Google Home. All they need to do is open the Google Home app on their phone, tap Menu and Music and choose their favourite compatible music service, or tap Menu, More Settings, Videos and Photos and choose their favourite compatible video service. People whose Google accounts arent linked to your Google Home will, however, still be able to play content from the default music and video services of the first person that linked their Google account and voice to the device. Pixel 2: The bad Headphone jack The worst thing about the Pixel 2 is its lack of a headphone jack. Google has, infuriatingly, decided to follow in Apples footsteps by needlessly dropping the 3.5mm port, and the move brings zero benefits to consumers. Both the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL feature a USB-C audio port, which isnt compatible with the vast majority of wired headphones on the market. Google includes a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter in the box, but its far from a satisfying solution to the problem, with the chunky accessory awkwardly flopping out of the bottom of the phone. Whats more, since the USB-C port is also used for charging, you cant power up the Pixel and listen to music through a pair of wired headphones at the same time, unless you buy a separate adapter that costs 20. From a consumer perspective, its a bad move all round. Unfortunately, the trend is likely to continue. Design Google claims it ditched the headphone jack because it is moving towards a bezel-less future, but neither the Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL are actually bezel-less smartphones. Samsung, Apple, LG and Huawei have done a much better job of maximising their latest flagship smartphones screen to body ratio than Google. The original Pixel and Pixel XL were roundly criticised for their plain looks a year ago, but Google hasnt done much to address the issue. Though the new Pixel XL is undoubtedly more attractive than its predecessor, it still has a prominent forehead and chin that detract from its overall look. The new Pixel, meanwhile, looks outdated and unrefined, its screen bordered on all sides by chunky bezels. Its certainly different to the original, but the changes represent a step sideways rather than a step forwards. The addition of water resistance to this years models is a good thing, but thats a feature the 2016 Pixels should also have had. Screen While the Pixel 2 XL has a drastically improved and thoroughly impressive 6-inch, 2,880 x 1,440 display, the Pixel 2 lags behind on the same 5-inch, 1,920 x 1,080 display that the original Pixel used. That setup was uninspiring even last year and, while its adequate, the lack of progress is disappointing. The Pixel 2 is not a cheap phone. It costs 629 for 64GB of internal storage, and 729 for 128GB. For that sort of money, you expect slightly better. Active Edge Like the HTC U11, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have a handy feature Google calls Active Edge. You can activate a special set of sensors embedded in the Pixel 2s frame by squeezing its sides. Its a clever function, but Google has decided to impose limits on it. On the HTC U11, you can choose what you use it for, from taking a selfie to launching a certain app. It comes in especially useful when youre using your phone one-handed. On the Pixel 2, however, you can currently only use Active Edge to launch Google Assistant. Its a frustrating limitation, because the squeeze functionality has the potential to solve common issues. If Google removes these shackles, this negative will become a big plus point. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A 26-year-old model from Essex faces early menopause after doctors mistook her endometriosis for IBS for 10 years. Carla Cressy suffered from abdominal pain and sensitivity from the age of 14, reports The Sun, but was incorrectly diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. Endometriosis is a common condition that affects two million women in the UK, it occurs when tissue that behaves like the lining of the womb forms outside of the uterus. It can be treated with Synarel (also known as Nafarelin), which has been known to cause pseudo-menopausal symptoms in young women. Synarel reduces the amount of oestrogen produced in the body, which subsequently prevents the growth of endometriosis tissue. Cressy admits that she has already started experiencing hot flushes, sweats and bizarre bouts of sickness. Its a nightmare, she said. In addition to impairing her social life, it has forced her to abandon her promising modelling career, which saw her featuring in mens magazines such as Nuts and Zoo. She was even voted as one of the most attractive women in the UK in a poll by Nuts. Cressy has undergone three surgical procedures to treat her endometriosis, however, she explained that the illness keeps returning and is now spreading to her other organs. Her condition has left her spending a huge amount of time being a recluse at home and she revealed that it has left her socially isolated as she cant make plans to go out with her friends. Despite its commonality in Britain, Cressy confessed to never having even heard endometriosis until the moment she received her diagnosis, by which point the condition had developed to stage four, which causes cysts in the uterus. She is using her experience to raise awareness of endometriosis in the hope that young sufferers will be diagnosed early, unlike her. Cressy has created a petition which calls for better education of the condition in schools. 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 }} Airbus has agreed to buy a majority stake in Bombardiers CSeries jetliner programme, giving a powerful boost to the Canadian plane- and train-maker in its costly trade dispute with Boeing. The deal, which would come at no cost for Europes largest aerospace group, would give Airbus a 50.01 per cent interest in CSeries Aircraft Limited Partnership, which manufactures and sells the jets, the companies said. While Bombardier will lose control of a plane programme developed at a cost of $6bn (4.5bn), it gives the CSeries improved economies of scale, a better sales network and, crucially, could change the power balance in the trade dispute with Boeing. Recommended This is what the Bombardier dispute is all about The 110-to-130 seat plane, which has not secured a new order in 18 months and is being threatened by a possible 300 per cent duty on US imports, would be built for US airlines at Airbuss Alabama assembly plant, circumventing any import penalties in a move that apparently caught Boeing off guard. Bombardier said the partnership should more than double the value of the CSeries program. Bombardier no longer has control of this jet, but then again, its better to have a 30 per cent share of a very successful programme than to struggle with a highly risky programme that was perhaps too big for them from the start, said aerospace analyst Richard Aboulafia. Canadian innovation minister Navdeep Bains, who must decide whether to approve the deal, said in a statement that on the surface, Bombardiers new proposed partnership ... would help position the CSeries for success. Boeing which is also locked in a separate 13-year trade dispute with Airbus said it was a questionable deal between two of its subsidised competitors. At 08:15 on Tuesday morning, Airbus shares were up 2.5 per cent at 78.96, the biggest rise by a European blue-chip stock. Airbus chief executive Tom Enders said the company, based in Toulouse, France, had offered to assemble some of the narrowbody jets at its US plant in Alabama for orders by US carriers. The US assembly line would mean the jets would not be subject to possible US anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duties of 300 per cent, Bombardier chief executive Alain Bellemare said. Mr Bellemare called the deal with Airbus, which was first attempted unsuccessfully in 2015, a strategic decision that is expected to close in the second half of 2018. Were doing this deal here not because of this Boeing petition. We are doing this deal because it is the right strategic move for Bombardier, Mr Bellemare said, referring to Boeings complaint that the Canadian firm received illegal subsidies and dumped CSeries planes at absurdly low prices. A Boeing spokesman dismissed the agreement as a questionable deal between two state-subsidised competitors to try to skirt a recent US trade finding against the CSeries. In February, the Canadian government announced C$372.5m ($297m) in repayable loans for the CSeries and another Bombardier jet programme. The Airbus investment does not place any more financial burdens on Ottawa, two sources close to the case said on Monday. The sources, who requested anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to media, also said the deal would have no effect on a separate dispute between Canada and Boeing over a proposed purchase of 18 Super Hornet jets. Ottawa has frozen contacts with Boeings military wing until the company drops its challenge against the CSeries. Bombardier said the deal would not result in job losses and would keep the head office in Montreal. Unions said the deal would benefit the programme. Ultimately, the US actions have created a stronger Bombardier, said Jerry Dias, president of Unifor, which represents some of Bombardiers unionised workers in Canada. The Boeing-Bombardier dispute has snowballed into a bigger multilateral trade dispute, with Prime Minister Theresa May asking US President Donald Trump to intervene in order to save British jobs. Bombardier is the largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland. Ms Mays Conservatives are dependent on the support of the Democratic Unionist Party party for their majority in Parliament. Business Secretary Greg Clark welcomed the Airbus deal with Bombardier, saying Britain would work closely with the firms to protect its interests and the leader of the Northern Irish party propping up Ms Mays minority government said it was incredibly significant news for Belfast. Talks for the deal between Airbus and Bombardier first started in August. Enders said the deal was different from an earlier round of talks in 2015, when he abruptly ordered an end to negotiations. He said the CSeries has since been certified, entered service and was performing well. Its an entirely different situation, he said. Delta Air Lines, which ordered 75 CSeries planes, said after the announcement that it looked forward to introducing the planes into its fleet. The deal could also drive Boeing closer together with Brazils Embraer, with which it already cooperates. Embraers E2 jet is one of the main potential losers from the CSeries deal. The world has two top-tier airframers, and two second-tier airframers, said Teal Group analyst Richard Aboulafia. Airbus and Bombardier are now allies. This greatly increases the likelihood of a stronger Boeing-Embraer alliance as a response. Under the deal, Bombardier will own about 31 per cent, while Investissement Quebec, the investment arm of the province of Quebec, will hold 19 pe rcent. In 2015, Quebec took a 49 per cent stake in the CSeries programme for $1bn, although its stake was more recently diluted to 38 per cent. Quebecs largest pension fund, which holds a 30 per cent stake in Bombardiers rail division, said the decision strengthened the company and improved its growth prospects. Bombardier is in the middle of a five-year turnaround plan after considering bankruptcy because of a cash-crunch as it developed multiple plane programmes simultaneously, including the CSeries. The deal also provides Airbus warrants exercisable to acquire up to 100 million Class B Shares of Bombardier. Business news: In pictures Show all 13 1 /13 Business news: In pictures Business news: In pictures Flybe collapses Airline Flybe has collapsed. All future flights on the Exeter-based airline have been cancelled leaving more than 2,300 staff facing an uncertain future, and wrecking the travel plans of hundreds of thousands of passengers. The chief executive, Mark Anderson, said: Europes largest independent regional airline has been unable to overcome significant funding challenges to its business. AFP via Getty Business news: In pictures Future product placement will be 'tailored to individual viewers' Marketing executives say that product placement in films and televison shows on streaming services such as Netflix may be tailored to individuals in future. For instance, if data shows that a viewer is a fan of pepsi, a billboard in the background of a shot would host an advert for pepsi, while for a viewer known to have different tastes it could be for Coca-Cola Paramount Business news: In pictures Corbyn wishes Amazon a happy birthday In a card sent to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos on the company's 25th birthday, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn writes: "You owe the British people millions in taxes that pay for the public services that we all rely on. Please pay your fair share" Business news: In pictures No deal, no tariffs The government has announced that it would slash almost all tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Notable exceptions include cars and meat, which will see tariffs in place to protect British farmers Getty Business news: In pictures Fingerprint payment NatWest is trialling a new bank card that will allow people to touch their hand to the card when paying rather than typing in a PIN number. The card will work by recognising the user's fingerprint NatWest/PA Wire Business news: In pictures Mahabis bust High-end slipper retailer Mahabis has gone into administration. 2 Jan 2019 Mahabis Business news: In pictures Costa Cola Coca-Cola has paid 3.9bn for Costa Coffee. A cafe chain is a new venture for the global soft drinks giant PA Business news: In pictures RIP Payday Loans A funeral procession for payday loans was held in London on September 2. The future of pay day lenders is in doubt after Wonga, Britain's biggest, went into administration on August 30 PA Business news: In pictures Musk irks investors and directors Elon Musk has concluded that Tesla will remain public. Investors and company directors were angry at Musk for tweeting unexpectedly that he was considering taking Tesla private and share prices had taken a tumble in the following weeks Getty Business news: In pictures Jaguar warning Iconic British car maker Jaguar Land Rover warned on July 5, 2018 that a "bad" Brexit deal could jeopardise planned investment of more than $100 billion, upping corporate pressure as the government heads into crucial talks AFP/Getty Business news: In pictures Spotif-IPO Spotify traded publically for the first time on the New York Stock Exchange on Tuesday. However, the company isn't issuing shares, but rather, shares held by Spotify's private investors will be sold AFP/Getty Business news: In pictures French blue passports The deadline to award a contract to make blue British passports after Brexit has been extended by two weeks following a request by bidder De La Rue. The move comes after anger at the announcement British passports would be produced by Franco-Dutch firm Gemalto when De La Rues contract ends in July. The British firm said Gemalto was chosen only because it undercut the competition, but the UK company also admitted that it was not the cheapest choice in the tendering process. Business news: In pictures Beast from the east economic impact The Beast from the East wiped 4m off of Flybes revenues due to flight cancellations, airport closures and delays, according to the budget airlines estimates. Flybe said it cancelled 994 flights in the three months to 31 March, compared to 372 in the same period last year. Airbus will provide procurement, sales and marketing, and customer support expertise to CSALP, the companies said. There will be no cash contribution by any of the partners, nor will CSALP assume any financial debt, they added. Bombardier expects a $400m loss in commercial aircraft this year, but has set a break-even target for 2020. 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 }} Microsofts secret internal database for tracking bugs in its own software was broken into by a highly sophisticated hacking group more than four years ago, according to five former employees, in only the second known breach of such a corporate database. The company did not disclose the extent of the attack to the public or its customers after its discovery in 2013, but the five former employees described it to Reuters in separate interviews. Microsoft declined to discuss the incident. The database contained descriptions of critical and unfixed vulnerabilities in some of the most widely used software in the world, including the Windows operating system. Spies for governments around the globe and other hackers covet such information because it shows them how to create tools for electronic break-ins. The Microsoft flaws were fixed likely within months of the hack, according to the former employees. Yet speaking out for the first time, these former employees as well as US officials informed of the breach by Reuters said it alarmed them because the hackers could have used the data at the time to mount attacks elsewhere, spreading their reach into government and corporate networks. Bad guys with inside access to that information would literally have a skeleton key for hundreds of millions of computers around the world, said Eric Rosenbach, who was US deputy assistant secretary of defence for cyber at the time. Companies of all stripes now are ramping up efforts to find and fix bugs in their software amid a wave of damaging hacking attacks. Many firms, including Microsoft, pay security researchers and hackers bounties for information about flaws increasing the flow of bug data and rendering efforts to secure the material more urgent than ever. In an email responding to questions from Reuters, Microsoft said: Our security teams actively monitor cyber threats to help us prioritise and take appropriate action to keep customers protected. Sometime after learning of the attack, Microsoft went back and looked at breaches of other organisations around then, the five ex-employees said. It found no evidence that the stolen information had been used in those breaches. Two current employees said the company stands by that assessment. Three of the former employees assert the study had too little data to be conclusive. Microsoft tightened up security after the breach, the former employees said, walling the database off from the corporate network and requiring two authentications for access. The dangers posed by information on such software vulnerabilities became a matter of broad public debate this year, after a National Security Agency stockpile of hacking tools was stolen, published and then used in the destructive WannaCry attacks against UK hospitals and other facilities. After WannaCry, Microsoft President Brad Smith compared the NSAs loss to the the US military having some of its Tomahawk missiles stolen, and cited the damage to civilians that comes from hoarding these vulnerabilities. Only one breach of a big database from a software company has been disclosed. In 2015, the nonprofit Mozilla Foundation - which develops the Firefox web browser - said an attacker had gotten access to a database that included 10 severe and unpatched flaws. One of those flaws was then leveraged in an attack on Firefox users, Mozilla disclosed at the time. In contrast to Microsofts approach, Mozilla provided extensive details of the breach and urged its customers to take action. Mozilla Chief Business and Legal Officer Denelle Dixon said the foundation told the public about what it knew in 2015 not only inform and help protect our users, but also to help ourselves and other companies learn, and finally because openness and transparency are core to our mission. The Microsoft matter should remind companies to treat accurate bug reports as the keys to the kingdom, said Mark Weatherford, who was deputy undersecretary for cybersecurity at the US Department of Homeland Security when Microsoft learned of the breach. Like the Pentagons Rosenbach, Mr Weatherford said he had not known of the Microsoft attack. Mr Weatherford noted that most companies have strict security procedures around intellectual property and other sensitive corporate information. Your bug repository should be equally important, he said. ALARM SPREADS AFTER INTERNAL PROBE Microsoft discovered the database breach in early 2013 after a highly skilled hacking group broke into computers at a number of major tech companies, including Apple, Facebook and Twitter. The group, variously called Morpho, Butterfly and Wild Neutron by security researchers elsewhere, exploited a flaw in the Java programming language to penetrate employees Apple Macintosh computers and then move to company networks. The group remains active as one of the most proficient and mysterious hacking groups known to be in operation, according to security researchers. Experts cant agree about whether it is backed by a national government, let alone which one. More than a week after stories about the breaches first appeared in 2013, Microsoft published a brief statement that portrayed its own break-in as limited and made no reference to the bug database. As reported by Facebook and Apple, Microsoft can confirm that we also recently experienced a similar security intrusion, the company said on 22 February 2013. We found a small number of computers, including some in our Mac business unit, that were infected by malicious software using techniques similar to those documented by other organisations. We have no evidence of customer data being affected, and our investigation is ongoing. Business news: In pictures Show all 13 1 /13 Business news: In pictures Business news: In pictures Flybe collapses Airline Flybe has collapsed. All future flights on the Exeter-based airline have been cancelled leaving more than 2,300 staff facing an uncertain future, and wrecking the travel plans of hundreds of thousands of passengers. The chief executive, Mark Anderson, said: Europes largest independent regional airline has been unable to overcome significant funding challenges to its business. AFP via Getty Business news: In pictures Future product placement will be 'tailored to individual viewers' Marketing executives say that product placement in films and televison shows on streaming services such as Netflix may be tailored to individuals in future. For instance, if data shows that a viewer is a fan of pepsi, a billboard in the background of a shot would host an advert for pepsi, while for a viewer known to have different tastes it could be for Coca-Cola Paramount Business news: In pictures Corbyn wishes Amazon a happy birthday In a card sent to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos on the company's 25th birthday, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn writes: "You owe the British people millions in taxes that pay for the public services that we all rely on. Please pay your fair share" Business news: In pictures No deal, no tariffs The government has announced that it would slash almost all tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Notable exceptions include cars and meat, which will see tariffs in place to protect British farmers Getty Business news: In pictures Fingerprint payment NatWest is trialling a new bank card that will allow people to touch their hand to the card when paying rather than typing in a PIN number. The card will work by recognising the user's fingerprint NatWest/PA Wire Business news: In pictures Mahabis bust High-end slipper retailer Mahabis has gone into administration. 2 Jan 2019 Mahabis Business news: In pictures Costa Cola Coca-Cola has paid 3.9bn for Costa Coffee. A cafe chain is a new venture for the global soft drinks giant PA Business news: In pictures RIP Payday Loans A funeral procession for payday loans was held in London on September 2. The future of pay day lenders is in doubt after Wonga, Britain's biggest, went into administration on August 30 PA Business news: In pictures Musk irks investors and directors Elon Musk has concluded that Tesla will remain public. Investors and company directors were angry at Musk for tweeting unexpectedly that he was considering taking Tesla private and share prices had taken a tumble in the following weeks Getty Business news: In pictures Jaguar warning Iconic British car maker Jaguar Land Rover warned on July 5, 2018 that a "bad" Brexit deal could jeopardise planned investment of more than $100 billion, upping corporate pressure as the government heads into crucial talks AFP/Getty Business news: In pictures Spotif-IPO Spotify traded publically for the first time on the New York Stock Exchange on Tuesday. However, the company isn't issuing shares, but rather, shares held by Spotify's private investors will be sold AFP/Getty Business news: In pictures French blue passports The deadline to award a contract to make blue British passports after Brexit has been extended by two weeks following a request by bidder De La Rue. The move comes after anger at the announcement British passports would be produced by Franco-Dutch firm Gemalto when De La Rues contract ends in July. The British firm said Gemalto was chosen only because it undercut the competition, but the UK company also admitted that it was not the cheapest choice in the tendering process. Business news: In pictures Beast from the east economic impact The Beast from the East wiped 4m off of Flybes revenues due to flight cancellations, airport closures and delays, according to the budget airlines estimates. Flybe said it cancelled 994 flights in the three months to 31 March, compared to 372 in the same period last year. Inside the company, alarm spread as officials realised the database for tracking patches had been compromised, according to the five former security employees. They said the database was poorly protected, with access possible via little more than a password. Concerns that hackers were using stolen bugs to conduct new attacks prompted Microsoft to compare the timing of those breaches with when the flaws had entered the database and when they were patched, according to the five former employees. These people said the study concluded that even though the bugs in the database were used in ensuing hacking attacks, the perpetrators could have gotten the information elsewhere. That finding helped justify Microsofts decision not to disclose the breach, the former employees said, and in many cases patches already had been released to its customers. Three of the five former employees Reuters spoke with said the study could not rule out stolen bugs having been used in follow-on attacks. They absolutely discovered that bugs had been taken, said one. Whether or not those bugs were in use, I dont think they did a very thorough job of discovering. Thats partly because Microsoft relied on automated reports from software crashes to tell when attacks started showing up. The problem with this approach, some security experts say, is that most sophisticated attacks do not cause crashes, and the most targeted machines - such as those with sensitive government information - are the least likely to allow automated reporting. 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 }} Ubers head of policy for Europe, Middle East and Africa has quit the company to join electric vehicle charging network firm Chargepoint. Christopher Burghardt is the latest senior figure to walk out of Uber after Jo Bertram, former regional manager for Northern Europe, left on 2 October. Mr Burghardt leaves after just one year at the ride-hailing firm and will become managing director for Chargepoint in Europe. Recommended TfL is forcing Uber to grow up He said the decision to leave Uber was a tough choice, but one he "couldn't turn down". "Europe is at the point of getting to mass adoption of electric vehicles and Chargepoint is at the forefront of that", he added. "I remain a great believer in what Uber does and I know our new chief executive has a vision that will take the company into a bright future. The ride-hailing firm faces a number of challenges internationally from regulators and lawsuits. Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi flew into London in October to meet Transport for London chiefs after the regulator refused to renew Ubers licence in September. The new chief executive is also dealing with accusations of a company culture rife with sexism under the leadership of his predecessor, Travis Kalanick. Meanwhile, the company faces a dozen lawsuits and at least five criminal investigations in the US, two more than previously reported, according to Bloomberg. 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 }} Hate crimes have rocketed by almost a third in the UK in the past year, with unprecedented spikes around the EU referendum and terror attacks recorded by police. New figures released by the Home Office confirm victims reports of a dramatic increase in incidents motivated by attackers hostility towards their race, nationality, religion or other factors. Data from police forces across England and Wales showed there were almost 80,400 hate crimes recorded in the 2016-17 financial year. The figure is a 29 per cent rise from the previous year the largest annual increase since records began six years ago. The increase over the last year is thought to reflect both a genuine rise in hate crime around the time of the EU referendum and also due to ongoing improvements in crime recording by the police, a Home Office spokesperson said. There were a number of spikes in racially or religiously aggravated offences. These were in June 2016 [EU referendum result], March 2017 [Westminster Bridge attack], May 2017 [Manchester Arena bombing] and June 2017 [London Bridge and Finsbury Park mosque attacks]. The size of the increase was unprecedented but follows a pattern seen with previous world events, which saw smaller hate-crime spikes in the UK following the 2014 Israel-Gaza conflict, and the Charlie Hebdo shooting and Paris attacks in 2015. Mike Ainsworth, director of London services at Stop Hate UK, said that while reporting had improved there had also been a real-world increase in hate crime. The rise is too great to simply be accounted for by a greater level of efficiency, he told The Independent. This is undoubtedly about a belief that grew that this is acceptable behaviour, and that is deeply worrying. (Home Office) As an organisation we are aware of the damage these attacks do to social cohesion. Stop Hate UK is among the groups collating reports, with research so far showing that public transport is a key area and that young women wearing religious clothes are frequent targets. Mr Ainsworth said the trend could be reversed by good moral leadership, adding: This is not something inevitable that we can do nothing about. Individual politicians and the mainstream media have a role to play. Fiyaz Mughal, founder of Tell Mama, a charity that records Islamophobic crime, said more hate-crime incidents were taking place. What we cannot get away from is that there is, sadly, a small section of individuals in our country that are activated by a traumatic crisis to target other people, he told The Independent. These things dont happen in isolation these are things people are already thinking. Mr Mughal described most Islamophobic hate crimes on the street as opportunistic but that intolerance was more evident online, where offenders feel they can act without checks from the physical world. The vast majority of crimes are racially motivated, standing at 78 per cent, followed by sexual orientation, religion, disability and transgender hate crimes, although police said many were driven by more than one category. Hate crime is defined as any criminal offence which is perceived, by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone based on a personal characteristic. (Home Office (Home Office) Nationality or xenophobia is not a specific category for data collection but guidance released by the College of Policing said crimes driven by a victims perceived national or ethnic origin should be recorded as race hate, as should attacks targeting asylum seekers and refugees. Anecdotal evidence suggests that there was an increase in these types of offences around the time of the EU referendum, the Home Office said. Around this time there was a clear spike in hate crime. The period saw numerous physical and verbal attacks on European citizens, including a student who was stabbed in the neck after an attacker heard him speaking Polish. Maike Bohn, a founding member of the3million EU citizens group, said it had received reports of hate crime and wider discrimination. Some of it is very subtle and some of it is people being yelled at on a bus, she told The Independent. I would never compare whats happening to fellow EU citizens to whats happening to other minorities they are the main victims. But what is clear to me that during the referendum and afterwards everything has been lumped together refugees, Muslims, people who are not us coming here. Thats been the rhetoric of Vote Leave and the current Government has allowed this to happen. Ms Bohn said change had to come from the top to ensure that people do not feel discriminatory views are acceptable. Government rhetoric used very early led a lot of people to the conclusion its absolutely fine to tell an EU nurse to go home, she added. Polish ambassador calls on government to condemn Brexit-related hate crimes I dont see that Britain hasnt changed, but some people have become emboldened and that worries me. A damning report released in August accused the Government of fuelling toxic anti-immigrant sentiment just as it emerged that ministers have for years vastly overestimated the number of foreign students staying in Britain. The inquiry from a cross-party group of politicians said Theresa Mays discredited target of cutting net migration to under 100,000 was particularly to blame for stoking anxiety that has accompanied unprecedented hate crime following the Brexit vote. Calling on fellow politicians to tone down their language, the group warned that rhetoric used during the EU referendum led some people to feel they could act on racist attitudes which had previously gone unexpressed. Every type of hate crime rose in 2016-17, with the steepest rise in disability-related offences, followed by transgender, religion, race, sexual orientation. They were mainly public order offences, which include making threats, insults and provoking violence, followed by violence against the person, criminal damage including vandalism, and arson. The huge increase in hate crime reported to police contrasted with a drop in prosecutions in the same period. Separate figures released by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) overnight showed that a total of 14,480 hate crime prosecutions were completed across England and Wales in 2016-2017, down by almost 1,000 from the previous financial year. They also showed a small increase in the number of hate-crime cases referred by police year-on-year, which did not recover the gulf left by an almost 10 per cent drop the year before. Brexit racism and the fightback Show all 9 1 /9 Brexit racism and the fightback Brexit racism and the fightback Demonstrators protest against an increase in post-ref racism at London's March for Europe in July 2016 PA Brexit racism and the fightback These cards were found near a school in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, the day after the EU referendum Twitter/@howgilb Brexit racism and the fightback Getty Brexit racism and the fightback Romford, Essex, June 25 @diamondgeezer Brexit racism and the fightback A worker at this Romanian food shop was asleep upstairs at the time of this arson attack in Norwich on July 8, but escaped unharmed. Hundreds later participated in a love bombing rally outside the shop to express their opposition to racism and their support of the shop owners. JustGiving/Helen Linehan Brexit racism and the fightback This neo-Nazi sticker was spotted in Glasgow on June 26 Courtesy of Eoin Palmer Brexit racism and the fightback But after news emerged of neo-Nazi stickers appearing in Glasgow, some in the city struck back with slogans of their own. Courtesy of Eoin Palmer Brexit racism and the fightback Getty Brexit racism and the fightback More signs began to appear in some parts of the UK, created by people who wanted to show their opposition to post-referendum racism Courtesy of Bernadette Russell Alison Saunders, the Director of Public Prosecutions, said: The drop in referrals recorded last year has impacted on the number of completed prosecutions in 2016-17 and we are working with the police at a local and national level to understand the reasons for the overall fall in referrals in the past two years. The CPS hailed an increase in the use of powers to increase prison sentences for offenders but campaigners called the annual statistics unacceptable. The Campaign Against Antisemitism called the number of prosecutions paltry in comparison with the record number of crimes being reported by the Jewish community in Britain. Kamran Mallick, the chief executive of Disability Rights UK, urged the victims of hate crime to come forward and be supported by authorities. Many disabled people experience daily instances of disability-related hate, this may be thought of as low-level crime by the police and other relevant authorities, he said. However, it has a cumulative impact that leads to isolation and withdrawal from society. Disabled people can have poor experiences when reporting a hate crime, and the police must do more to respond. The reports came during National Hate Crime Awareness Week, with conferences and events across the country bringing together police, local authorities and community groups to tackle the issue. Amber Rudd, the Home Secretary, said: There is absolutely no place for hate crime in our society and this Government is taking action to tackle it. I am heartened that more victims are more confident to come forward and report incidents of hate crime, and that police identification and recording of all crime is improving. But no one in Britain should have to suffer violent prejudice, and indications that there was a genuine rise in the number of offences immediately following each of this years terror attacks is undoubtedly concerning. 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 }} Councils have been accused of passing the buck on homelessness by giving rough sleepers one-way train tickets out of their areas of responsibility. Local authorities argue the practice, used hundreds of times and costing thousands of pounds in recent years, is part of reconnection policies aiming to help people voluntarily return to areas where they have family, friends and support networks. Homeless Link, an umbrella group for charities working with rough sleepers, said the worrying trend of one-way tickets was not a solution. Local authorities should not be sending people across the country unless it is to an area that they have a connection to and will be safe in, and there is a plan in place to support them when they arrive, chief executive Rick Henderson told The Independent. Simply displacing rough sleepers without offering support is not solving the issue, and at worst can exacerbate their situation, leaving them more isolated and at risk of deteriorating physical and mental health. Mr Henderson said that while there can be legitimate reasons, like domestic violence or links to gangs, for a homeless person to want to move their individual needs must be taken into account. If the person does have a support network or is entitled to access services and accommodation in a different area, then helping reconnect them to these can help to end their rough sleeping, he added, urging councils not to seek a quick fix under pressure from tight resources. Three teenagers shown on CCTV giving homeless man duvet Crisis said reconnection policies must not be used to pass the buck to other local authorities. Matt Downie, the charitys director of policy and external affairs, said: Reconnection can be a way for homeless people to return to their family and friends and a chance for them to rebuild their lives. But buying one way train tickets for people mustnt become a way to pass the buck. Homeless people deserve better than to be moved on without the appropriate support. The most recent annual survey carried out in England found there were 4,134 people sleeping rough across the country on any one night, although campaigners believe the real number is far higher because councils can provide estimates rather than headcounts. There were 4,134 people sleeping on the streets in England in 2016 - a 130% rise in six years, government figures suggest. The charity Crisis says this is a significant underestimate. London, Birmingham and Manchester are the main hubs but the seaside resort of Bournemouth is not far behind according to official figures. The cities are among those practicing reconnection policies, which are intended only for people who want to leave the area but have been allegedly offered to some rough sleepers unwilling to leave. Freedom of information requests from the BBC to councils with the highest number of rough sleepers in England showed that 10 out of the 11 who replied were buying one-way tickets. In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Show all 16 1 /16 In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Celebrities and 1,000 members of public attended the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Sadie Frost at the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Celebrities and 1,000 members of the public joined the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Seyi Obakin, the Chief Executive of Centrepoint, and Colin Salmon at the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Celebrities and 1,000 members of public attended the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Celebrities and 1,000 members of public attended the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Celebrities and 1,000 members of public attended the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Celebrities and 1,000 members of public attended the End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out in London's Greenwich Peninsula on 24 November Andy Barnes In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Lib Dem Leader Tim Farron gets ready to bed down as 1000 people get ready to sleep out for the annual Centrepoint Sleep out at the Greenwich Peninsula Nigel Howard In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out The RAF prepare tasty food before a 100 people get ready to sleep out for the annual Centrepoint Sleep out at the Greenwich Peninsula Nigel Howard In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Independent reporter Alex Dymoke gets ready to bed down as 1000 people get ready to sleep out for the annual Centrepoint Sleep out at the Greenwich Peninsula Nigel Howard In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Anjali Patel, Remy Diamon-Ross and Hannah Kilminster join members of the RAF as they are given dinner Nigel Howard In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Bedding down for the night, sleepers get ready for lights out in one of several tents at the annual Centrepoint Sleep out at the Greenwich Peninsula Nigel Howard In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Bedding down for the night, sleepers get ready for lights out in one of several tents at the annual Centrepoint Sleep out at the Greenwich Peninsula Nigel Howard In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Bedding down for the night, sleepers get ready for lights out in one of several tents at the annual Centrepoint Sleep out at the Greenwich Peninsula Nigel Howard In pictures: End Youth Homelessness Sleep Out Colin Salmon is 'photo bombed' before he gets ready to bed down as 1000 people get ready to sleep out for the annual Centrepoint Sleep out at the Greenwich Peninsula Nigel Howard Manchester City Council has spent almost 10,000 on the initiative over six years but said it did not keep a record of how many people this involved. Bernard Priest, the councils deputy leader said the measure is only used if it helps them to get back into settled accommodation in a community they recognise as their home. We always offer support to anyone who is genuinely homeless., he added. For some people, who want to go back to their home town or city where they have a connection to family and friends, we will always offer support and only with their agreement will we offer to buy a train ticket home as many don't have the means to do this. Bournemouth Borough Council recorded 144 reconnections in three-and-a-half years. Caroline Roundhill, its housing strategy and policy manager, said: Our priority is to ensure that anyone found rough sleeping in Bournemouth is provided with the most appropriate help and support to move off the streets. We operate a Reconnections Policy, as do most local authorities, which involves reconnecting rough sleepers who have no local connection to Bournemouth. However, this would never just be about returning someone home on a one-way train journey. It is a planned package delivered by our rough sleeper team to connect people to where they have accommodation options and can access suitable support, liaising closely with other local authorities. But one rough sleeper who has lived in Bournemouth for his whole life claimed he was recently offered a ticket to Manchester despite having never visited the city or met anyone from there. It made me feel sick, Gareth Glendall-Pickton told the BBC. I've lived here all my life... it's soul-destroying. I think basically what theyre trying to do is get all the homeless people out of Bournemouth. The council would not respond directly to his claim but said individual cases were very complex in their nature. Bristol City Council has also reconnected 167 people since the end of 2014, including 65 who were given tickets to leave the UK. Rough sleeping has increased by 169 per cent since the Tories came to power in 2010 (Reuters) A spokesperson said the offer was only made when it was identified as the best route off the streets and safe accommodation had been confirmed. Council workers discuss the persons options with them and relatives, before buying a bus, train or even plane ticket. Exeter City Council has also spent 4,651 moving 107 rough sleepers over two-and-a-half years, saying that an option to discuss housing options was set up with their new local authority as a minimum. Londons boroughs have not provided a breakdown but Alison Butler, the deputy leader of Croydon council, told the BBCs Victoria Derbyshire programme rough sleepers are mostly moved within the capital. London is quite different because we as local authorities so our borders but other people dont recognise them, she added. We would only reconnect people if they want to be there and you have to put support in place. The debate comes ahead of the Governments new Homelessness Reduction Act, which will place more responsibility on local authorities to prevent homelessness when it comes into force in April. The Department for Communities and Local Government said 550m was being invested until 2020 to tackle the phenomenon, adding: Even one person without a roof over their head is too many. Theres more to do to make sure people have a secure home to call their own and Ministers will set out further plans shortly, including delivering on our commitment to end rough sleeping. Measures include trailblazerprojects in selected areas that will work in better coordination between health, housing and employment services, as well as grants for projects working with rough sleepers. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Britain is experiencing a terrorist offensive which is as unrelenting as it is unprecedented, drawing from a growing pool of Islamist extremists, and with some murderous plots taking just a few days from inception to the point of attack, the head of MI5 has warned. Andrew Parker, the director general, said he had never faced such a high tempo of attempted and successful bombings, shootings and stabbings in his 34 years of working in the Security Service. With jihadis returning from fighting in Isis ranks in Syria and Iraq, and the internet providing motivation and material, the pace of violence shows no sign of falling. Charting the scale of the problem, Mr Parker said that MI5 and police have stopped seven attacks by Islamists in the past seven months. Twenty major acts have been detected in the past four years and 379 suspects have been arrested in the first six months of this year. There are, at present, 500 live operations under way targeting 3,000 people with 20,000 more who have been on the counter-terrorism radar and others who are not even known to the law agencies. Mr Parker recalled that he had said in a speech two years ago that despite a string of successful operations he feared that we had not yet reached the high-water mark. He said today: Sadly that has proved to be the case. Islamist terrorism is an acute and enduring challenge that requires a sustained and comprehensive approach. The internet has provided terrorists with access and immediacy. They can go online to get explosives and learn how to build a bomb, said the director general. How do the UK's terror threat levels work? As a result they can accelerate from inception to planning to action in just a handful of days, exploiting safe space online which can make it harder to detect and gives us a smaller window to intervene. The internet providers had a duty to help protect public safety, Mr Parker said. He did not want to dwell, he said, too much on specific matters such as encryption, which have been used by terrorists to plan and communicate, arguing there needs to be an element of partnership on this vital issue between Government and private industry. Speaking at a location in central London, the director general said: The threat is multidimensional, evolving rapidly, and operating at a scale and pace we have not seen before. We have seen a dramatic upshift in the threat this year. Its the highest tempo I have seen in my 34-year career. Today there is more terrorist activity, coming at us more quickly, and it can be harder to detect. The threat is more diverse than Ive ever known. Plots developed here in the UK, but plots directed from overseas as well. Plots online, complex scheming and also crude stabbings, lengthy planning, but also spontaneous attacks. Extremists of all ages, gender and backgrounds, united only by the toxic ideology of violent victory that drives them. These threats are sometimes now coming at us more quickly, whether crude but lethal attack methods for example using a knife or a vehicle or more sophisticated plots. Andrew Parker led the investigation into 7/7 attacks To add to the security threat, hundreds of British Muslims who had joined Isis in the Middle East are expected to be heading home. More than 800 had made the journey out, said Mr Parker, and around a hundred of them are believed to have been killed. A relatively small number have returned, but, as Isis faces defeat, he added they are now advising would-be fighters to carry out their jihad in other countries. The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism Show all 10 1 /10 The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 10: Greece AP The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 9: Denmark Shutterstock The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 8: Austalia Getty Images The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 7: Sweden Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 6: Mexico Reuters The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 5: Germany Anthony Faiola/The Washington Post The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 4: Israel AP The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 3: US Getty The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 2: France Getty The 10 developed countries suffering the most deaths from terrorism 1: Turkey AP This upshift is driven by the murderous strategy of Daesh [Isis] and online propaganda. Daesh directing mass casualty plots, Daesh encouraging particular extremists in the UK to kill, Daesh inspiring attacks generally, by lone actors or small groups or anyone who will listen to their poisonous message, said Mr Parker. Weve also seen that terrorism breeds terrorism. Would-be attackers take encouragement from the acts of others and can be galvanised into taking action themselves, acts of violence become normalised in their twisted thinking. Technological advance was inevitable and welcome, Mr Parker said. But an unintended side effect is that these advances also aid the terrorists. Whether its the ease of online purchasing, social media content, or encrypted communications, addressing these challenges is about partnerships and ethical responsibility, he said. No company wants to provide terrorists with explosive precursors. Social media platforms dont want to host bomb-making videos. And communications providers dont want to provide the means of terrorist planning beyond the sight of MI5. Some helpful action is being taken. But there is a challenge of pace, volume and reach as these technologies continue to develop so rapidly. We have a shared responsibility to do all that we can to prevent terrorist exploitation of internet-carried services. Asked about the security implications of a possible hard Brexit, Mr Parker stressed that cooperation with partner agencies in Europe will continue: We dont just stand with our European colleagues, we work with them. We share intelligence. We run joint operations, every single day. Only last week I met again with my counterparts from 30 European security services as we decided on the next stages of collective action. It might help illustrate how close our working is if I say that we have a joint operational centre, which happens to be based in the Netherlands, where officers from across our services are working alongside each other every day in joint facilities with shared data in joint endeavour against the terrorists. This delivers real results. Together we have stopped attacks. More than a dozen terrorists are in custody today who might not otherwise have been found in time. The 12 suspects, it is believed, are being held in Europe. The plots some of them have been allegedly involved in have a British connection. MI5 is doing its utmost and achieving success against terrorists, said Mr Parker. Ive always been clear that we cant hope to stop everything. But I can tell you that MI5 and our partner agencies are bringing the full weight of our growing capabilities to counter this new intensity of threat. Day in and day out we are identifying and disrupting threats: stopping terrorism. Our response is unrelenting. When an attack happens we are determined, using the harsh light of hindsight, to squeeze out every last drop of learning so that we can be the very best we can be, now and in the future. The women and men of MI5 are of course members of the public, who are drawn from across the society that they protect. They get up and come to work every single day to make terrorist attacks less likely and to keep the country safe. They are constantly making tough professional judgments based on fragments of intelligence: pin pricks of light against a dark and shifting canvas. 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 }} Pictures have emerged of huge crowds gathering at Liverpool Street Station in central London, after a number of trains were cancelled following a signal failure. Other services were rescheduled, with some missing planned stops. The Greater Anglia and London Overground lines were the worst affected. National Rail said the disruption was expected to last until at least 10pm and customers were advised to delay their journeys. Commuters expressed dismay at the situation, which saw them waiting in the station's lobby in the thousands. "What a s*** show Liverpool Street is right now," said traveller Hannah Lou. "Extreme delays on all routes going to and from it!" Huge crowds waited in the lobby of Liverpool Street Station (@Gavllen) Another commuter said it was a sight that "will make any Londoner cry". National has issued advice to Greater Anglia customers: "Customers travelling between London Liverpool Street and Southend Victoria may travel on c2c services via Fenchurch Street. "Customers travelling between London Liverpool Street and Ipswich / Norwich may also travel via London Kings Cross to Cambridge and from Cambridge please travel on the local Greater Anglia services to Ipswich or Norwich. "Customers travelling between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport / Cambridge may travel via London Kings Cross using London Underground and Great Northern services." UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 4 November 2022 A peacock is seen in the early winter sunshine in the Dutch Gardens in Holland Park AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 November 2022 A villager cooks roti bread at the site of the annual Camel Fair in Pushkar, in India's desert state of Rajasthan AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 2 November 2022 A red squirrel gathers nuts in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 1 November 2022 Englands Tara-Jane Stanley scores their sides seventh try against Brazil during the Womens Rugby League World Cup group A match at Headingley Stadium, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 31 October 2022 GBs James Hall competes during the mens parallel bars qualification at the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images Transport for London (TfL) has apologised and said the delays were caused by signal system malfunction. TfL said: "Services from Liverpool Street are almost fully reinstated. "We apologise for the disruption due to your journeys due to an earlier signal failure." Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A prominent neo-Nazi and former organiser of the National Front has given up his far-right views as well as revealed he is gay and has Jewish heritage. Kevin Wilshaw was a high-profile figure of the National Front in the 1980s and was speaking at extreme right events as recently as this year. Speaking to Channel 4 News, he explained he had given up his violent past which included smashing a chair over someones head, vandalising a mosque and being arrested for online hate race offences. He added that he did not have many friends at school and was looking for comradeship. His comments come as the Home Office confirmed that there had been a rise in hate crime reports by almost a third in the 12 months following the Brexit referendum. The Government has also been urged to launch an inquiry into far-right extremism in the armed forces after four soldiers were arrested for being alleged members of a banned neo-Nazi group called National Action. Mr Wilshaw, who joined the BNP and was indirectly involved with other fringe groups, came under abuse from members of his own side, however, when they suspected he was gay. The far right in the UK Show all 10 1 /10 The far right in the UK The far right in the UK British Union Jack flags are reflected in the sunglasses of a protester during a protest on April 1, 2017 in London Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images The far right in the UK A man holds a St George's Cross flag at a demonstration organised by the far-right group the English Defence League in central London on June 24, 2017 Tolga Akmen/AFP The far right in the UK A man is pictured with police officers at a demonstration organised by the far-right group the English Defence League (EDL) in central London on June 24, 2017 Tolga Akmen/AFP The far right in the UK A Neo-Nazi chats amicably with a police officer at a demonstration organised by the far-right group the English Defence League in central London Tolga Akmen/AFP The far right in the UK Supporters of the far-right group Britain First wave flags as they march and rally in central London on April 1, 2017 following the March 22 terrorist attack on the British parliament Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP The far right in the UK Police walk ahead of supporters of the far-right group Britain First marching in central London on April 1, 2017 Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP The far right in the UK Protesters hold placards and British Union Jack flags during a protest titled 'London march against terrorism' on April 1, 2017 in London Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images The far right in the UK A woman wearing a Donald Trump campaign hat hugs another woman during a protest titled 'London march against terrorism' on April 1, 2017 Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images The far right in the UK A protester waves a British Union Jack with an 'England' tattoo on his arm during a protest on April 1, 2017 in London Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images The far right in the UK Anti-Semitic demonstrators attend a rally on Whitehall in central London on July 4, 2015 Jack Taylor/AFP Its a terribly selfish thing to say but its true, I saw people being abused, shouted at, spat at in the street its not until its directed at you that you suddenly realise that what youre doing is wrong, he told the news show. He also revealed his mother was part Jewish, and her maiden name was Benjamin. The BNP remains active, including a recent campaign against supposed plans for a mosque in the Lincolnshire town of Louth that local authorities said do not exist. Accused of being a vehicle for the far-right, the Football Lads Alliance march through London He added that he felt appallingly guilty about his past, but also that he would find it difficult to fill the void of far-right activity that has shaped his life. I want to do some damage as well, not to ordinary people but the people who are propagating this kind of rubbish want to hurt them, show what its like for those who are living a lie and be on the receiving end of this type of propaganda, I want to hurt them. Hope Not Hate, the non-profit which received a cry for help from Mr Wilshaw, has helped to expose and document the expansion of the far-right in Europe and in the US under the label of alt-right which was coined in 2008. Several high-profile figures in the extreme-right movements were born in the UK, including Milo Yiannopoulos and Paul Joseph Watson. Mr Wilshaw is not the first neo-Nazi to turn against his past. Michael Kent from Colorado spent two decades in a violent white supremacist group. After his black, female parole officer influenced him to change his way of life, he had his far-right tattoos removed via Redemption Ink, a national non-profit that offers free removals of hate-related tattoos. 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 primary school has apologised after a letter was sent asking pupils to dress as slaves for an event to mark Black History Month. Pupils at St Winefrides Catholic Primary School in Newham, east London, were told to wear dirty and worn out clothes stained with tea or coffee. The letter also asked the year two class to arrive with straw hats or fabric head wraps for the special assembly. Recommended School says sorry after banning boy with Aspergers from sports day It might be an idea to not wash these clothes and stain them with tea or coffee to look more authentic, the letter, seen by the Newham Recorder, said. The schools headteacher, Paul Underwood, said the letter had been sent without the approval of senior staff. I apologise on behalf of the school for Fridays unauthorised letter and the offence caused, he said. One parent questioned whether Jewish children would have been asked to re-enact the Holocaust. But others came to the schools defence. Samantha Peters, who has two children at the school, said the criticism was unfair and praised teachers for their efforts to remember the ugliness of slavery. Donald Trump's Black History Month speech A spokeswoman for the school said the stunt was not inkeeping with the ethos of the school. We deeply regret the offence caused to our pupils and school community, she said. This letter was sent out without the approval of the schools senior management team or governors. We have written to those who received the letter to apologise and we have also spoken to the members of staff involved and taken steps to ensure an incident like this does not happen again. We understand the importance of Black History Month and celebrate this by studying the success and achievements of black role models. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The bride who was pictured simulating a sex act on her new husband after their wedding in Rhodes, is reportedly "mortified" at the response and feels their big day has been ruined. After the image of Carly and Matthew Lunn went viral, one of the Mediterranean island's most senior bishop's called for a ban on all foreigners getting married at its picturesque St Pauls chapel. It meant that hundreds of couples would potentially have to source an alternative venue for their big day. Initially Ms Lunn described the picture, which she and her husband had agreed to do as a joke, as "brilliant". We expected a lot of laughs and jokes from people, but didnt expect it to be as popular as it was," the 34-year-old told The Sun. "People back in England were commenting on it, the whole thing went mad. But after the Bishop Kyrillos of Rhodes call to ban foreigners, the couple were left facing potential legal action from other couples. Others criticised the couple for the picture on social media. As a result, Ms Lunn is now said to be regretting having it taken. She is absolutely mortified, a friend told Mail Online, adding that it had ruined what was supposed to be the best day of her life. 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 Community leader Giorgos Eleftheriou told The Times: I have hundreds of soon-to-be-brides from Britain and all over the world calling me today in tears because of this decision. One couple from Rotherham, who have been planning their wedding at the chapel for two-and-a-half years, said they were speaking to a solicitor to see if they can take any legal action against them. The mayor of Rhodes is reportedly due to make a final decision on the matter in the coming weeks. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Prime Minister, Theresa May, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, today backed a major new anti-slavery project by the Church of England. Working across all 42 English dioceses, over the next three years the Clewer Initiative, which was launched at Lambeth Palace today, will encourage parishes to support victims and spot the signs of modern slavery in their communities, as well as partnering with other local organisations to prevent the scourge. Modern slavery is a barbaric crime which destroys the lives of some of the most vulnerable in our society, said Ms May. Recommended Hundreds march demanding end to modern slavery in London Tackling modern slavery is one of my priorities as Prime Minister, and as Home Secretary I was pleased to introduce the Modern Slavery Act 2015, giving law enforcement new tools to pursue criminals and increase the support available for victims. However, the Government cannot tackle this problem alone and this is why the efforts of organisations and groups such as the Clewer Initiative are so important. Mr Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, said human trafficking was a terrible sin. Those who purposefully constrain, confine and traffic and enslave people will face the judgement of God, he said. But we can change it so easily, and so quickly. We can set people free, set our society and nation free from the scourge of slavery simply by removing our blindfolds and acting on what we see. The Church of England is the latest organisation to announce a crackdown on modern slavery since The Independent and the London Evening Standard launched its special investigation into the subject last month. Training sessions are already under way to help identify victims in the construction industry and car washes. Last week The Independent and the Standard revealed how car washes are hotbeds of exploitation. The initiative is being funded by the Clewer Sisters, an Anglican order founded in the 19th century to help vulnerable women drawn into the sex industry. Faith groups have long taken the lead on the front line of the fight against modern slavery. Since 2014 the Santa Marta group, led by the Catholic Church, has brought together police forces and faith leaders from around the world to help eradicate modern slavery. Sarah Newton, MP for Truro and Falmouth, and minister for crime, safeguarding and vulnerability, said: Victims of modern slavery live in communities across the UK but the despicable crimes against them are too often hidden. This is why it takes the local knowledge, awareness and commitment of communities to identify victims and pursue offenders. Victim-focused projects like the Clewer Initiative play a vital role in the fight against modern slavery. Visit Freedom Uniteds action hub for The Independent Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner (IASC), Kevin Hyland, says The Independent and the London Evening Standard special investigation into modern slavery has already had a positive effect on efforts to combat the problem in the capital. [The investigation] has been key, said Mr Hyland. It has only been going a month but it is really starting to generate responses. Were already seeing more reports, and more law enforcement activity. It has been a real step forward. Mr Hylands comments came as he launched the IASC annual report, detailing his departments efforts over the past 12 months and outlining their next areas of focus. His role was created in 2015, as part of the Modern Slavery Act. Recommended Hundreds march demanding end to modern slavery in London If we look at where we are now, two years on from the Act, did we think wed be this far forward? No, said Mr Hyland. But at a time when there are so many challenges in the world, modern-day slavery has remained at the top of UK priorities and is at now rising on the international agenda. The introduction and global agreement of a specific UN development goal is to eradicate modern slavery by 2030. Its a big task, but in the UK we are on track. William Wilberforce changed things in 20 years, at a time when slavery was legal. On the victim support side, Mr Hyland has been a vocal critic of the national referral mechanism (NRM), by which potential victims of modern slavery in the UK are assessed for support. We made recommendations to the Government, and Im confident were going to see very significant changes to that support, said Mr Hyland. But we need every government agency working together, from local authorities to the HM Revenue & Customs and Health & Safety as well as law enforcement, otherwise modern-day slavery will remain a niche subject. Law enforcement is another priority. Of the estimated 13,000 victims of modern slavery in the UK, only a small number enter NRM, and an even smaller number of criminal cases are brought. Weve seen a 159 per cent increase in crimes recorded, which is a significant jump, Mr Hyland said. The National Crime Agency has completely changed its response, and it now treats modern slavery cases as a priority. Were seeing cases prosecuted without victims present, which is a step forward. Weve educated 1,500 judges about modern slavery so they know to see it as the serious crime that it is, one of the most serious on our statute books. And now we are seeing sentences of 15 years plus, rather than two or three. Another focus of the report is Britains bilateral arrangements with foreign governments. Albania, Vietnam and Nigeria are the most common origin countries for slaves in the UK. Part of the IASCs effort is in working abroad to prevent potential victims from being trafficked in the first place. But we should not forget the third highest recorded victims in the UK is British nationals including 255 children proof, if it were needed, that no country or nationality is immune. Some 11,000 women arrived in Italy from Nigeria last year, and the International Organisation for Migration estimates as many as 80 per cent of them are destined for domestic servitude. forced labour or sexual exploitation, including here in the UK, he said. The only way to get real change is to go back to source, by taking away the power of these criminals in the areas where they operate. Public awareness is only helpful if it leads to concrete action, Mr Hyland said. The Independent has drawn attention to the scandal of car washes. But its no good educating the public about nail bars and car washes if, when they are reported, no action is taken. To make modern slavery socially unacceptable and push it off the high street we need three things: public awareness, good laws, and for those laws to be enforced. If any part is missing, the crime may continue. Visit Freedom Uniteds action hub for The Independent Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The reality of how cannabis is grown in the UK has been revealed in a short film exposing how Vietnamese children are transported across the world and forced to grow drugs in British houses. As the number of Vietnamese minors reported as victims of trafficking soars to the highest on record, leading childrens charity Ecpat UK has launched an emotive animation film depicting how teenagers in Vietnam are promised work in Britain only to find themselves enslaved and criminalised when they get here. The film, launched to coincide with Anti-Slavery Day, aims to educate statutory agencies about the increasing trend, which is seeing children being forced by organised crime gangs to grow drugs in houses across the UK but who often face criminalisation and prison. It is hoped that the animation, which is based on real-life experiences of children Ecpat UK has supported, will also educate members of the public who use cannabis about the dirty supply chains of marijuana that often include child exploitation. Created by Animage Films and Oscar-nominated animator Erica Russell, the short film depicts how a 15-year-old boy, under pressure to find work to earn money for his family in Vietnam, takes an offer from a man offering him work abroad. But when he arrives in the UK with another Vietnamese boy, he recalls how they were taken by the man to a house and ordered to look after his plants, with threats that he would kill them if they ran away. We felt sick with the smell and we werent allowed out on our own. The man and his friend never gave us any money, the boy says in the film. One day the police came and arrested us for growing drugs. I didnt understand what was happening. That was the last time I saw my friend. The teenager explains how his friend was taken into foster care following his arrest, but went missing. In his case, he has says he has been accused of lying about his age and being a criminal. I am scared the man and his gang will find me and want no money. Im scared Ill go to prison. Why does nobody believe me? he asks. In 2016, there were 227 Vietnamese children identified as potential victims of modern slavery in the UK. In the first six months of this year alone, there were 169 referrals minors from Vietnam into the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) the UKs framework for identifying victims of trafficking making it the top country for children being trafficked into the UK. While the UK used to import most of its cannabis, by 2010, 50 per cent of marijuana was home-grown and Britain is now actually exporting marijuana to meet demand from abroad. The move from importing to exporting cannabis has occurred partly due to the involvement of organised Vietnamese gangs using residential properties as factories. These require significant manpower in order to nurture and harvest cannabis crops, which has led many criminal gangs to target children and young people in this form of forced labour. Evidence shows that the most prevalent form of child trafficking in the UK is for forced labour in cannabis cultivation, and data from the NRM consistently shows that Vietnam is the single largest source country for child victims of trafficking. Between 2000 and 2014, the number of cannabis farms detected by the police in the UK increased by more than 150 per cent. Of all the potential trafficking victims who were forced into cannabis cultivation, 96 per cent were from Vietnam, and 81 per cent of these were children. The animation film, which has the support of the UK Anti-Slavery Commissioner, will be disseminated in Vietnam as a preventative tool to raise awareness among children, their families and the Vietnamese community of the risks of trafficking to unaccompanied children in Europe. It will be premiered in Londons historic Frontline club on 17 October, and will also be launched in Vietnam in partnership with the Pacific Links Foundation as part of an innovative education programme in schools to help prevent young people being trafficked. Chloe Setter, head of advocacy, policy and campaigns at Ecpat UK, urged that despite heightened awareness of the issue among police and professionals, large swathes of the public still are not aware of the exploitation within cannabis supply chains. Ecpat has been receiving referrals about children from Vietnam exploited in cannabis cultivation for more than a decade yet this is still a shock to many who use marijuana in the UK, she told The Independent ahead of the launch. I think many people are unaware of the exploitation in cannabis supply chains and will want to consider the providence of their drugs in the future. In our experience, many vulnerable young people from Vietnam are treated as criminals before they are seen as victims of modern slavery, which only re-traumatises them and makes it more difficult to gain their trust. We want this film to help inform frontline workers about the rights of child victims of trafficking, as well as to reach out to children in Vietnam who may be at risk. Phil Brewer, lead police officer for the Metropolitan Polices Modern Slavery and Kidnap Unit, who will be speaking at the launch event, told The Independent: Modern slavery remains a largely hidden crime. It is important that police and other professionals have a good understanding of the indicators of exploitation and are confident in how to access support for victims. When a potential victim is found in a scenario that would suggest they are complicit in a crime, such as a cannabis factory, we must consider whether this is something they have chosen to do or that they have no other option than to do. If it is the latter, then there is a high chance they are a victim of modern slavery. Jane Slater, Campaign Manager Anyones Child, an organisation campaigning for safe drug control, who will also be speaking at the launch, warned that the poor and marginalised were bearing the brunt of the UKs current approach to drugs. As the film highlights, it is the poor and marginalised, in this case Vietnamese children, who bear the brunt of our current approach to drugs, she said. By prohibiting cannabis we have just handed the market to criminals the last people to care about child protection. Ms Slater said the UK should follow the lead of countries like Canada, which is in the process of legalising and regulating cannabis specifically to take organised criminals out of the trade and to better protect young people. There will be no trafficked child labour in Canadas licensed cannabis farms, and age controls at the point of sale will also help keep minors safe, she added. 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 But the UK is lagging behind. We must catch up not just with Canada, but many US states, Uruguay, parts of Spain and the Netherlands all of which have decided to legally control and regulate the market to protect the young and vulnerable. The film comes after The Independent revealed that social workers, lawyers and police officers are pleading with the Government to overhaul slavery policies because child victims of trafficking are slipping back into exploitation within weeks of being rescued. They warned that children as young as 13, many of whom are from Vietnam as well as a number of other countries including the UK, are being identified as victims of slavery and recorded on the national database, but sliding back into exploitation within weeks or even days. The Home Office has been approached for comment. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A top Home Office civil servant has said that the use of troops on Britains borders could be a "last resort in the event of the UK crashing out of the EU without a deal. Appearing on the Home Affairs Select Committee, Philip Rutnman, the Home Office permanent secretary, was quizzed on whether the UK had a sufficient number of border force staff in place to deal with a range of scenarios at the end of the Brexit negotiations. Asked by Yvette Cooper, the chair of the committee, whether the UK could end up relying on the armed forces in order to provide border checks in the event of no deal, Mr Rutnman replied: I think it would be unwise to rule anything out. It seems clear to me that any use of the military would be an absolute last resort. Our preference strong preference is to deal with the border and security needed at the border through border force and that is the basis in which our planning is proceeding. Mr Rutnman added that the Home Office is already in the process of recruiting an additional 300 border forces officers, to ensure we can deal with the consequences of leaving the European Union with a deal or without a deal. But his comments were seized upon by James McGrory, the executive director of Open Britain, who told The Independent that the spectre of troops patrolling the UK border shows just how absurd and damaging the Governments threat to leave the EU with no deal is. He continued: In Northern Ireland in particular, such an action would be an appalling regression to the border of the past that ministers keep promising to avoid. And after years of defence cuts, its not like we can spare large numbers of soldiers to perform functions that are properly the preserve of the police and border force. A Brexit with no deal would be damaging and unworkable, with consequences that we cannot foresee. It is time their Government dropped this threat and negotiated to retain a close relationship with Europe that keeps Britain an open, tolerant and peaceful country. 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 During her two-hour grilling in front of the committee Amber Rudd, who appeared alongside Mr Rutnman, said it would be unthinkable for the negotiations with Brussels to end without a deal in place. But her comments exposed the divisions at the top of Government over the threat of such a scenario as just hours earlier David Davis, the Brexit Secretary, insisted that maintenance of the option of no deal is for both negotiating reasons and sensible security. 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 }} Cabinet divisions over Brexit have been exposed again after Amber Rudd said failing to achieve a deal with the EU would be unthinkable while David Davis told MPs the UK had the right to walk away. Home Secretary Ms Rudd said there would at least be agreement on security cooperation, while Brexit Secretary Mr Davis said the UK was heading for a terrible deal if it was not able to threaten to ditch talks. Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson used a session in the Commons to tell the EU to get serious over Brexit talks following suggestions that he is holding up progress. It comes after Theresa May made a flying visit to Brussels on Monday for talks with European Commission President Jean Claude Juncker where they agreed to accelerate efforts on Brexit but showed little sign of tangible progress. Appearing in front of the Home Affairs Committee, Ms Rudd was asked if the UK would walk away without a Brexit deal of any form. Ms Rudd said: I think it is unthinkable that there would be no deal. It is so much in their interest as well as in ours; in their communities', in their families', in their tourists' interests to have something in place. We will make sure there is something between them and us to maintain our security. Ms Rudd was a high-profile campaigner for the Remain cause during the Brexit referendum and her comments are likely to cause concern among arch-Eurosceptics on the Tory benches who believe the UK should retain the option of cutting ties with Brussels without any form of deal. 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 Mr Davis, who is leading the UK's negotiations with the EU, accused Brussels of attempting to squeeze more taxpayers' cash out of the Government by using the pressure of time as the clock ticks down to the Brexit date. They're using time pressure to see if they can get more money out of us, and bluntly, that's what's going on, he told the Commons. Asked about the prospect of leaving without an agreement, he said the UK had to be prepared "because it's a negotiation with many people and could go wrong" but also "you always have to have the right to walk away if you don't, you get a terrible deal. Downing Street attempted to play down any difference between Ms Rudd and her Cabinet colleague. A Number 10 spokeswoman said: I think if you look at her words in full, she's referring to the fact that a deal is in the best interests of both sides and that's something the Prime Minister absolutely agrees with. Answering questions in the Commons over claims from German politician Michael Fuchs that he is holding up progress in Brexit talks, Mr Johnson said the Government is united and had made a very generous offer to the EU. He said: It is up to our friends and partners in the EU now to look seriously at the offer we are making particularly on citizens and to make progress. Reverse Brexit with second referendum to save your economy, OECD tells UK Everybody wants to make progress, everybody wants to give the 3.2 million EU citizens in this country the maximum possible reassurance and security. That can only happen once our friends and partners decide to get serious in these negotiations. Ms May made a flying visit to Brussels on Monday night for talks with Mr Juncker where they agreed to "accelerate" efforts to find a Brexit deal, and said in a joint statement afterwards that their meeting had been constructive and friendly. However, there was no indication the Commission's side was ready to revise its view that the talks still had not made sufficient progress for them to move forward to the second phase, including a free trade deal. Ms May will get the chance to address EU leaders on Brexit at the European Council summit this week, Downing Street and the European Commission confirmed. The Prime Minister will not attend a Friday working session of the other 27 leaders on the negotiations, although Commission chief spokesman Margaritis Schinas hinted that the UK would not be entirely absent from the proceedings. 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 }} David Davis has appeared to cut the odds on a no deal Brexit by insisting Britain will only agree to a transition phase if the final relationship has been agreed. The Brexit Secretary vowed Britain would not sign up to what one Conservative MP called a permanent bridge to nowhere, where no future trading agreement has been reached. The stance raises the likelihood that Britain will crash out of the EU with no deal because key figures at home and abroad have insisted there is no time to agree permanent trading terms. It was immediately criticised as an extraordinarily dangerous statement which hiked the risk of the most destructive possible option for our economy. Ian Murray, a Labour MP and supporter of the Open Britain group, added: Neither the Governor of the Bank of England, nor anyone credible in business, believes it is likely that the final deal on Britains future relationship with Europe can be fully negotiated by 2019. David Davis needs to engage with the real world, and stop living in a fantasy land where these negotiations are going swimmingly. The Liberal Democrat Brexit spokesman, Tom Brake, said: The Brexit Secretary is living in fantasy land. There's no way the government can negotiate a final deal in time with the EU when Cabinet ministers cant even agree amongst themselves. David Davis is either sneakily pushing us towards a no-deal, or has no idea what hes doing. The controversy came as the EUs chief negotiator, speaking in Brussels, made clear the exit talks will remain deadlocked without further concessions from London. Blaming Britain for the stalemate, Michel Barnier said it takes two to accelerate, adding: It is very important to understand that time passes very quickly. The clock is ticking very fast. In her Florence speech, Theresa May proposed a transition of about two years, to calm the fears of businesses, a move warmly welcomed in Brussels. She has described it as an "implementation period" - to put into place agreed arrangements, rather than delay a long-term agreement - but had avoided setting down further conditions. The move recognised widespread warnings that a final deal is likely to take many years to agree, with the risk of a cliff edge in March 2019, the Prime Minister has acknowledged. But Mr Davis toughened that position in a statement to MPs in which he also admitted the EU was using the weapon of time pressure to turn the screw on Britain in the negotiations. Rishi Sunak, a Brexit-backing Tory backbencher, urged him to only accept transition if the final relationship with our European allies has been agreed, at least in principle. The Government must ensure that what is meant to be a transitory state of affairs does not become a permanent bridge to nowhere, he said In reply, Mr Davis said: He is right. Such a transition phase would only be triggered once we have completed the deal itself. We cannot carry on negotiating through that. Our negotiating position during the transition phase would not be very strong. The Brexit Secretary has previously argued Britain holds the whip hand in the talks, but admitted: They are using time pressure to get more money out of us. The comment reflects that one quarter of the two-year Article 50 process has already ticked away. The EU says a deal is needed in 12 months, to allow for ratification. Mr Davis also dismissed any shift in the British position on a future Irish border attacked as fantasy in Brussels arguing: We have made quite a lot progress on Northern Ireland, possibly as much as we can. And he described a think-tanks analysis that million of Britons will be 500-a-year worse off under a no deal Brexit as scaremongering. 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 }} Claims of ethnic cleansing in Burma by a senior United Nations official appear to be "increasingly an accurate description", the UK Government has said. Foreign Office minister Mark Field acknowledged Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has stated that violence against the Rohingya people in Burma by the military and militia seemed a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing". More than half a million people - most of whom are Muslim ethnic minority Rohingya people - have fled the country to Bangladesh amid atrocities and fatalities in Rakhine state. Mr Field stopped short of declaring the UK believes ethnic cleansing has occurred, explaining it was reluctant to do so for two reasons. Mr Field told MPs in the Commons: "The broader reason is we're trying diplomatically as far as possible to see movement from the Burmese government and in fact there has been some, quite significantly, from Aung San Suu Kyi. "There's another slightly more personal reason... my own mother was ethnically cleansed as a German national in the early months of 1945. "She moved from a part of Germany that my forefathers had lived in since the 1720s. She was able to return to, briefly, as a visitor in her 50s - I have never seen that part of the world. "It is a phrase, because it is loaded I think with great emotion and a sense of a finality about ethnic cleansing, that I have hitherto been relatively reluctant to use - not in any way in disrespect to the Rohingya but we still maintain a hope that many Rohingya will be allowed to return safely to Burma. "It may be a forlorn hope. "However, I do also accept the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights having said it seemed to him like a textbook case of ethnic cleansing. "And I conclude this appears I'm afraid to be increasingly an accurate description of what has happened." Mr Field's remarks came after MPs heard that evidence of ethnic cleansing in Burma is overwhelming and the country's military must be held to account. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A no-deal Brexit will leave millions of British households 500 a year worse off, a major new study has found. The detailed research concludes those who struggle to get food on the table will be hit hardest, with new trade tariffs causing the cost of essential goods to rise significantly. The report was published just hours after Theresa May attended a dinner with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in a bid to push stalled Brexit negotiations forward. It was part of an intense diplomatic round which also saw her speak with French and Irish leaders on Monday, as the spectre of Britain crashing out of the EU with no deal in place looms over the deadlocked Brexit negotiations. The report by the Resolution Foundation and the University of Sussex looks at the impact on British families of the UK imposing the same tariffs on EU goods as it does on those from other World Trade Organisation countries, a likely no-deal outcome. The study concluded that walking away from the deadlocked negotiations in Brussels would be the worst possible outcome, leading to tariffs on imports of dairy products jumping by 45 per cent, on meat products by 37 per cent, and on clothing, footwear, beverages and tobacco by 10 per cent. This would then feed through into major price rises in shops and supermarkets, hitting households on average by 260 and increasing annual costs for some three million homes by 500 a year. 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 Ilona Serwicka, research fellow at the UK Trade Policy Observatory at the University of Sussex, said the no-deal scenario is now a possibility and must be avoided. He added: Our research shows that this scenario will increase the cost of essential goods, such as food and clothes, which will impact most adversely on those households who already struggle to get food on the table and make ends meet. To avoid the real economic danger of a cliff-edge scenario that will see the cost of living for households up and down the country go up the UK Government must realise that walking away from the negotiating table is the worst possible outcome. Drilling down into more detail the report suggests the average price of dairy goods could rise by 8.1 per cent, meat products by 5.8 per cent and transport vehicles by 5.5 per cent. The report also found that the option touted by some Brexiteers, to eliminate all tariffs unilaterally in the event of no deal, would only yield small benefits and the most well-off households would profit as much as those on lower incomes. Shadow Brexit minister Jenny Chapman said the report was further evidence that failing to achieve a deal will hit family budgets and raised the potential dire consequences of the Governments chaotic handling of the negotiations in Brussels. A Department for Exiting the EU spokesperson said: As the Secretary of State said at the close of the latest Brexit negotiations, we have made real progress since June and are continuing with the momentum from the Prime Ministers speech in Florence. We want a deep and special future partnership with the European Union and we are optimistic about achieving this. Its in everyone's interests we get a free trade agreement that allows for the most frictionless trade in goods and services. Theresa May and Jean-Claude Juncker at a meeting in April (Reuters) While Ms May told the Commons on Wednesday her administration is spending a further 250m on preparing for Brexit, including a no-deal scenario, she conducted an intense round of diplomacy in a bid to end the stalemate in talks. Downing Street sources insisted Mondays dinner meeting with Mr Juncker had been in the diary for weeks, despite EU officials saying the date was only confirmed in the last few days, after last weeks fifth round of Brexit negotiations ended with little movement. The dinner on Monday evening was also attended by Brexit Secretary David Davis, Downing Street aide Ollie Robbins, the EUs chief negotiator Michel Barnier and Mr Junckers head of cabinet Martin Selmayr, and saw Ms May underline commitments made in her Florence speech on Brexit. The Prime Minister and French President Emmanuel Macron also discussed progress in Brexit talks during a phone call and agreed to go over next steps on the margins of the crunch summit of EU leaders later this week, Downing Street said. Brexit is turning into a disaster says Vote Leave chief Ms May also agreed the importance of maintaining constructive progress in negotiations in a call with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and reiterated Britains commitment to maintaining a soft Irish border. But the basic Brexit negotiations deadlock over withdrawal issues, including the size of Britains divorce bill, the Irish border and guaranteeing citizens rights, remain in place and are likely to hold up talks on a post-Brexit trading relationship. Earlier in the day Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson urged the EU to get on with beginning serious Brexit negotiations on trade, adding: Its ready for the great ship to go down the slipway and on to the open sea and for us to start some serious conversations about the future and the new relationship. Mr Juncker and Mr Barnier said after the fifth round of Brexit talks finished last week that they would recommend more progress is needed on withdrawal terms, including the divisive issue of the so-called divorce bill. While the European Council meeting beginning on Thursday is expected to conclude that sufficient progress has not been made to progress to trade talks, UK observers will be keeping a close eye on whether any hope of movement is offered. Theresa May is under pressure from Tory backbenchers to walk away from the negotiating table if trade is not being discussed by Christmas. 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 been told to stop wasting money on plans to axe 50 MPs and create a slimmed-down Commons, because she is too weak to force them through. Fresh proposals for new constituency boundaries are published today but were immediately declared a dead duck, after the Prime Minister lost her majority. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has voiced opposition, fearing the knock-on effect from the loss of one seat in Northern Ireland will cost the party and boost Sinn Fein. Recommended Boris Johnson could lose his seat after constituency boundary review But some Tory backbenchers are also worried that their own seats will disappear despite a previous promise that every sitting MP would be given a new seat to fight. The Government has insisted the vote needed to trigger the changes will be held in due course, but has not set out a timetable and will not go ahead if a defeat appears likely. Meanwhile, The Independent has been told that the review process which began four years ago has cost almost 10m in England alone. David Cameron repeatedly defended cutting the number of MPs on the grounds that it would save 10m a year. But Labour said shrinking the Commons was a wrong move when MPs will be confronted with the daunting task of implementing Brexit for years to come. It risks leaving the UK Government struggling to keep up with the day-to-day requirements of legislation, said Cat Smith, the partys voter engagement spokeswoman. Alistair Carmichael, the Liberal Democrat chief whip, demanded that the Government stop wasting money on a dead-duck boundary review. The DUP will not wear this review. Nor will many Tory backbenchers. The Government should stop wasting public funds and bow to the inevitable, he said. The proposals would see Jeremy Corbyns north London seat disappear, potentially triggering musical chairs with other top party figures scrambling for new seats. Likewise, the East Yorkshire constituency of Brexit Secretary David Davis would go but those of Theresa May and Amber Rudd, the Home Secretary would be unchanged. As well as cutting the cost of politics, the shake-up is intended to ensure all Commons seats have broadly the same number of voters, between 71,031 and 78,507. But the Prime Minister is expected to back away from confronting MPs who would lose their seats, when she needs their support to push through controversial Brexit legislation. Furthermore, the Conservatives are not now expected to be the overwhelming winners from the shake-up, nor Labour such a clear-cut loser. One post-election analysis found the Tories would still not have won a majority had the new seats been in place in June and that Boris Johnson and Iain Duncan Smith would have lost their seats. It also found that, under the new boundaries, the DUP would have dropped from 10 seats to seven, while Sinn Fein would have won two more seats, to gain a total of nine. The rejigged proposals, which make changes to more than half the proposed new constituencies after a public consultation, will now be studied for their political impact. Under the plans, the number of MPs in England would be cut from 533 to 501, from 59 to 53 in Scotland, 40 to 29 in Wales, and 18 to 17 in Northern Ireland. If they are scrapped, it will follow numerous U-turns since the election debacle, including over expanding grammar schools, overhauling social care and a free vote on fox hunting. 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 }} Womens refuges have seen their budgets slashed by nearly a quarter over the last seven years, despite Theresa Mays pledge to boost funding for women escaping violent partners. More than 1,000 women and children fleeing domestic violence have been turned away from shelters in the past six months, according to research which also found three quarters of councils in England have reduced the amount they spent on refuges since 2010. The probe by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism (BiJ) also cast doubt on the effectiveness of Ms Mays 20m boost for tackling domestic violence last year, as 50 local authorities reportedly have not received any funding. Recommended Only changes to welfare will help women leave abusive relationships Refuge managers said that eight months after the winning bids were announced the funds had still not come through, forcing one shelter to put its entire staff on notice out of fear of imminent closure. Labour MP Jess Phillips, who chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group on Domestic Violence, said: "The Government keep saying that they are investing tens of millions into domestic violence services but this is not being felt on the ground. Domestic violence services need consistent funding they simply cannot manage living hand to mouth year on year. Unless we get this right women and children will suffer. Two women a week in England and Wales are killed by their partners or ex-partners, according to the Office for National Statistics. Conservative former education secretary Maria Miller, who chairs the Women and Equalities Select Committee, said: Local authorities are under financial pressure along with the rest of public services but it is not right that refugees should suffer disproportionately. In the new Domestic Violence Bill to be introduced in the coming months I believe the Government needs to put in place a statutory requirement for local authorities to ensure there is a sufficient supply of refuge places in their area. Refuges provide a vital service and need to be protected. The investigation found that funding for refuges across England has dropped from 31.2 million in 2010/2011 to just 23.9 million in 2016/17. Scandal-hit Kensington and Chelsea Council was among the worst offenders of the 84 councils, as it emerged it had cut spending on refuges by 45% since 2010. A month after the Grenfell Tower disaster claimed 80 lives, the ceiling of a refuge in the borough collapsed. One refuge manager warned "women and children are going to die as a result" while another said they were providing just a "bare bones service". Many of the 40 refuge managers surveyed said they were often forced to turn away women with physical disabilities, mental health problems or because they had too many children with them. One woman from the West Midlands was told that the nearest free space in a refuge was in Orkney off the coast of Scotland, while another had to call the police four times while she waited for space, according to the BiJ. Clare Phillipson, a manager for a refuge in Sunderland, said: "I spent last weekend trying to work out which woman to turn away. "You're thinking is this woman going to die if we turn them away. It's awful." Many services like child support workers, specialist support for women from ethnic minorities and substance abuse workers have had to be cut. Katie Ghose, chief executive of Womens Aid, told The Independent that 78 women and 78 children were turned away from refuges on a single day in 2016, leaving them at risk of homelessness and violence. She said: The Government has promised to tackle domestic abuse through its landmark Domestic Violence and Abuse Bill and make survivors safe in the knowledge that the state will do everything it can to both support them and their children. We fully support the Governments ambitions but fear that the Bills potential will be undermined if these lifesaving specialist refuges are not properly funded We urge the Government to commit to the sustainable, long-term funding of a national network of refuges and ensure that the housing benefit refuges rely on will be protected. The Government must commit to save these lifesaving services so that all women and their children can safely escape from domestic abuse. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 15 November 2022 Lesley Sutcliffe shelters from the rain next to a life-sized replica of the innermost coffin of King Tutankhamun by artist Amanda Stoner as it goes on display inside a traditional red telephone box which has been converted into a museum, in Barnsley, South Yorkshire PA UK news in pictures 14 November 2022 Members of the hospitality sector demonstrate outside parliament in London. The head of the Confederation of British Industry is urging the UK government to relax immigration rules to help British companies with severe staff shortages, ahead of the chancellors autumn statement EPA UK news in pictures 13 November 2022 England celebrate winning the mens T20 World Cup in Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia AAP Image/Reuters 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 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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 Ms May took an interest in tackling domestic violence when she was Home Secretary and the Government has pledged around 100m to supporting victims over this Parliament. Ministers are also planning to bring forward tougher sentences for those convicted of domestic violence against children and create a new domestic violence commissioner with the power to hold the police and the criminal justice system to account. A Government spokesman said: Domestic abuse is a devastating crime and were taking action to make sure that no victim is turned away from the support they need. Weve secured 40 million of dedicated funding for these domestic abuse services over four years up to 2020, and so far allocated half of this to local authorities to support 76 projects across England, which will create more than 2,200 bed spaces and support to over 19,000 victims. We know theres still more to do to tackle domestic abuse, which is why well be introducing a landmark Domestic Violence and Abuse Bill to protect and support victims and bring perpetrators to justice. 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 }} An 87-year-old woman - once dubbed Americas most successful jewel thief - has vowed to give up a seven-decade life of crime after being busted for stealing from a local Walmart. Doris Payne, who is reputed to have stolen more than $2m during a career that reached from Slab Fork, West Virginia, to Monte Carlo and even Tokyo, claimed her life of light-fingered larceny was over after being charged with the theft of $86.22 worth of electronics and groceries. Dont come back, Ms Payne, Chamblee Municipal Court Judge Angela Duncan told Ms Payne, according to US media. In a 2013 documentary, Payne said she regretted nothing - except getting caught (AP) Payne, who pleaded guilty to a charge of shoplifting responded: I wont. The hearing on Monday in Georgia marked the latest twist in a life of crime that began more than 70 years ago in a dirt poor upbringing in West Virginia. A 2013 documentary about her life, The Life & Crimes of Doris Payne, made by Kirk Marcolina and Matthew Pond, suggests that her first thefts were performed in order to help her mother, who was Native American and was abused by her father, who was African American. She told one interviewer she sold the items from one of those first thefts to allow her mother leave her unhappy marriage. CCTV: Thief uses distraction tactic to swipe phone I dont have any regrets about stealing jewelry. I regret getting caught, she says in the film. A movie of her life, in which she was to be played by Halle Berry, was talked of but apparently progressed no further. Payne, who had been under house arrest at the time she carried out the shoplifting in Walmart and was even wearing an ankle monitor, reputedly never utilised anything more than sleight of hand, a smart handbag and a designer outfit to carry out her crimes. No one was ever hurt. Her rap sheet - or criminal record - is said to stretch to 20 pages in the US alone. Payne was detained by Milwaukee police in 1965 (Films Transit International) Her previous crime had been the attempted theft of a $2,000 necklace from the Von Maur store in Atlantas Perimeter Mall last year. Officials said over the years she had used up to 20 aliases and multiple Social Security numbers. Ms Payne did not respond to a request for comment. However, Marissa Goldberg, Paynes lawyer told The Independent that her clients guilty plea had cleared the charges against her. She is now free to get on with her life and that is what she wants to do, she said. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. 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 According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, in the early years of her life of crime, Payne, who was born in October 1930 and was the youngest of six children, made use of Town and Country magazine to help her identify jewelry that was valuable and worth of her attention. One of Paynes most celebrated thefts took place in the 1970s when she stole a 10-carat diamond ring valued at more than $500,000 from the Cartier store in Monte Carlo. She had reportedly been inspired to carry out the theft after seeing To Catch a Thief, Alfred Hitchcocks 1955 romantic comedy starring Grace Kelly and Cary Grant. She was caught and held but avoided charges. According to Fox News, Payne, who has two adult children, promised that all of that was behind her. Im going on about my life's dream doing for foster kids, young boys, she said. Any and all money I ever get from a book will go in that fund. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The governor of Florida has declared a state of emergency ahead of a speech by far right leader Richard Spencer at the University of Florida later this week. Rick Scott made the decision to make resources available in case violence were to erupt at the white supremacists event. Spencer, who rose to prominence for being punched at an anti-Trump protest, was involved in the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville over the summer which saw neo-Nazis, KKK members and supporters of the so-called alt-right descend on the Virginia city. Tensions between fascists and counter protestors turned deadly after a 20-year-old man, who officials say had Nazi sympathies, deliberately ploughed his car into the crowd of peaceful anti-fascist demonstrators and killed a female civil rights activist. This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe, Mr Scott said in a statement. He added: "I have been in constant contact with Sheriff [Sadie] Darnell who has requested this executive order to ensure that county and local law enforcement have every needed resource. While he argued everyone should have the right to express their opinions, he said the state had zero tolerance for violent outbursts and public safety was always the chief priority. Writing in a seven-page executive order, he said the threat of a potential emergency at Spencer's speech in Gainesville was imminent and it was necessary to implement a coordinated security plan among local and state agencies before it went ahead. (Getty Images (Getty Images) Spencer, who led a mob of 40 white men in Charlottesville earlier in the month, said the emergency declaration was flattering but most likely overkill. Kent Fuchs, the president of the University of Florida, urged students to steer clear of the talk, not provide Spencer with attention and disregard his message of hate. He explained he was legally obliged to allow him to speak. The values of our universities are not shared by Mr Spencer. Our campuses are places where people from all races, origins, and religions are welcome and treated with love, he said in a video message this week. He added: We refuse to be defined by this event. We will overcome this external threat to our campus and our values. The institution rejected a request to rent space made by a group steered by Spencer back in August due to safety concerns. The university has said it would spend some $500,000 on security for Spencers forthcoming talk this week. Charlottesville, an ordinarily peaceful university town, saw Spencer return earlier in the month alongside a group of 40 white men dressed in shirts and khakis bearing tiki torches and gathered around the citys statue of US Confederate Army General Robert E Lee. This is the third protest which white supremacists have staged this year against the proposed removal of the monument and the crowd was also reportedly chanting The south will rise again. Russia is our friend. The south will rise again. Woo-hoo! Wooo. After the gathering, Spencer hailed its success and urged Charlottesville to prepare for more white supremacist flashmobs. Charlottesvilles mayor, Mike Signor, condemned the protest, saying: Another despicable visit by neo-Nazi cowards. Youre not welcome here! Go home! Meantime were looking at all our legal options. Stay tuned. Spencer, who had his gym membership revoked in May after a college professor accused him of being a neo-Nazi mid workout, prompted fury when he made a number of allusions to Nazi ideology during a speech at a conference in Washington last November. Hail Trump! Hail our people! Hail victory! he declared, prompting audience members to leap to their feet in applause, with several appearing to make drawn-out Hitler salutes. Spencer, who is president of the white nationalist National Policy Institute, is in favour of a white homeland for a dispossessed white race and calls for peaceful ethnic cleansing to put a stop to the deconstruction of European culture. He once claimed: Hispanics and African Americans have lower average IQs than whites and are more genetically predisposed to commit crimes. 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 }} Locked in an embrace, the bodies of a pair of hikers who went missing three months ago in Californias Joshua Tree national park are thought to have been found. Joseph Orbeso, 21, and Rachel Nguyen, 20, had been missing since 28 July, after they failed to check out of their Airbnb. Their car was found a week later near a popular trail in the park, called the Maze Loop. It is thought they were hiking in extreme heat. Recommended Missing hiker found alive after 47 days lost in the Himalayas At the time temperatures were around 38C and it was unclear if they had had water supplies with them. The remains, which were discovered over the weekend have been sent to San Bernardino coroners office to be formally identified and a cause of death to be recorded. Mr Orbesos father, Gilbert, was with the Joshua Tree search and rescue team when the bodies were found. I believed that I was going to find them, he told KESQ. I didnt know when, but I had my answer today. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The security guard who led police to Las Vegas shooter Stephen Paddock has vanished, his union president said. Jesus Campos had been due to break his media silence following the devastating attack on a music festival that left 58 dead. But the night before his interviews were due to take place he disappeared, according to David Hickey of the Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America (SPFPA). Mr Hickey said he later received a message saying Mr Campos had been taken to urgent care facility UMC Quick Care, according to Fox News. "For the past four days he's been preparing... we had a meeting with MGM officials, and after that meeting was over, we talked about the interviews, we went to a private area, and when we came out, Mr Campos was gone, Mr Hickey said. "Right now I'm just concerned where my member is, and what his condition is. It's highly unusual. I'm hoping everything is OK with him and I'm sure MGM or the union will let (media) know when we hear something." A spokesperson for UMC Quick Care say they had "heard nothing" about Mr Campos attending one of their centres. Las Vegas shooting in pictures Show all 15 1 /15 Las Vegas shooting in pictures Las Vegas shooting in pictures People scramble for shelter at the Route 91 Harvest country music festival after gun fire was heard Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures People carry a person at the Route 91 Harvest country music festival after shots were fired David Becker/Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures People run from the Route 91 Harvest country music festival after gun fire was heard David Becker/Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures A handout photo released via Twitter by Eiki Hrafnsson (@EirikurH) showing concertgoers running away from the scene (C) after shots range out at the Route 91 Harvest festival on Las Vegas Boulevard EPA/Eiki Hrafnsson Las Vegas shooting in pictures People lie on the ground at the Route 91 Harvest country music festival after hearing gun fire Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures A man in a wheelchair is taken away from the Route 91 Harvest country music festival after hearing gun fire David Becker/Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures People stand on the street outside the Mandalay Bay hotel near the scene of the Route 91 Harvest festival on Las Vegas Boulevard EPA/Paul Buck Las Vegas shooting in pictures FBI agents confer in front of the Tropicana hotel-casino after a mass shooting during a music festival on the Las Vegas Strip Reuters/Las Vegas Sun/Steve Marcus Las Vegas shooting in pictures Las Vegas police run by a banner on the fence at the Route 91 Harvest country music festival grounds after shots were fired David Becker/Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures An injured person is tended to in the intersection of Tropicana Ave. and Las Vegas Boulevard after a mass shooting at a country music festival Ethan Miller/Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures Metro Police officers pass by the front of the Tropicana hotel-casino after a mass shooting at a music festival on the Las Vegas Strip Reuters/Las Vegas Sun/Steve Marcus Las Vegas shooting in pictures A woman sits on a curb at the scene of a shooting outside of a music festival along the Las Vegas Strip AP/John Locher Las Vegas shooting in pictures A cowboy hat lays in the street after shots were fired near a country music festival in Las Vegas Getty Las Vegas shooting in pictures Las Vegas Metro Police and medical workers stage in the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard South after a mass shooting at a music festival on the Las Vegas Strip Reuters/Las Vegas Sun/Steve Marcus Las Vegas shooting in pictures Sheriff Joe Lombardo (2-R) speaking during a press briefing in the aftermath of the active shooter incident on Las Vegas Boulevard EPA Mr Campos was shot as he approached the 32nd floor suite of the Mandalay Bay hotel, from where 64-year-old gunman Paddock was firing customised automatic weapons into crowds at a festival below. After raising the alarm with police, Mr Campos reportedly remained nearby, helping to evacuate rooms on the same floor before being ordered to leave himself. He was hit in the right leg by a bullet and was due to be operated on. His injuries were not believed to be serious. Mr Campos was hailed a hero for raising the alarm, and received a union award in the wake of the attack. But he has also found himself at the centre of conspiracy theories surrounding the shooting. Internet forums went into overdrive after police revised the timeline of the shooting after the attack. Online sleuths claimed entirely without basis that Mr Campos was somehow involved in the massacre. Some say they have even visited Mr Campos' house, and are poring through his online footprint in an attempt to make their theories stick. False reports have attempted to blame him for the attack, reviving conspiracy theories about there being another shooter on the night of the attack, which have been rejected by police. 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 }} Fairy tales are not known for beginning in a Washington DC nightclub, but for one American woman it was where she met the Ethiopian prince who would go on to become her husband. Ariana Austin, now 33, was on a night out with a friend when they were approached by Joel Makonnen in the Pearl nightclub. I said: You guys look like an ad for Bombay Sapphire', he told The New York Times about their first encounter. Not even five minutes later I said: 'You're going to be my girlfriend'. What he didn't reveal that night 12-years ago, was that plain old Joel was actually Prince Joel, the great-grandson of Haile Selassie I, Ethiopia's last emperor. But after the couple started dating seriously, Mr Makonnen, who works as a lawyer, eventually revealed his royal heritage Born in Rome, his parents Prince David Makonnen and Princess Adey Imru Makonnen, had been forced to live in exile after a communist coup in his homeland. (Dotun Ayodeji @dotunayodeji ) (Dotun Ayodeji @dotunayodeji) His father had escaped the bloodshed in his homeland because he was studying abroad at the time. The family subsequently settled in Switzerland. Mr Makonnen is related to Haile Selassie I through the emperors second son Prince Makonnen. (Dotun Ayodeji @dotunayodeji ) (Dotun Ayodeji @dotunayodeji) Haile Selassie was the 225th and last in the line of King of the Kings of Ethiopia, ruling the east African country for 40 years until he was overthrown in 1974. He died the following year of circulatory failure though many believe he had been murdered days earlier. Japanese Princess forced to renounce her royal status so she can get engaged to commoner Art's curator, Ms Austin told the newspaper it is an unbeatable heritage and history that combines sheer black power and ancient Christian tradition. (Dotun Ayodeji @dotunayodeji ) (Dotun Ayodeji @dotunayodeji) The royal family traces its roots back to the Biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. The pair married in a lavish Ethiopian Orthodox Christian wedding with 13 priests, two crowns and a pair of capes on 9 September. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A 10-year-old boy has survived a 30 metre tumble over the Niagara Falls into a gorge. He is believed to have been sitting on a railing to pose for a photograph when he lost his balance, hit his head, and fell down. Police are investigating but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances. Recommended Niagara Falls water has turned black and is emitting a foul odor The boy, who has not been named, is in a stable condition in hospital, the BBC reported. He was rushed there by a helicopter. Medics initially feared his injuries were life threatening but his condition was later downgraded. The famed waterfalls are a major tourist attraction on the border of the US and Canada. They are made up of three falls and the accident is reported to have happened at Horseshoe Falls, the largest at 51m high. American Falls, the second largest, is 34m tall and Bridal Veil Falls is 24m in height. Earlier this year, a man died after going over inside a three metre wide inflatable ball. 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 Kirk Jones, 53, had previously plunged over the falls in 2003 without protection and survived. Others have also gone over the falls inside objects. In 1901, teacher Annie Edson Taylor went over in a barrel aged 63 in an unsuccessful bid to raise money for her retirement. Her manager ran off with her barrel, depriving her of a lucrative prop for speaking engagements. The first recorded person to survive an intentional leap down the waterfalls was daredevil Sam Patch in 1829. The stunt made him a household name. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A floating hospital could help desperate patients in Puerto Rico, but nobody knows how to get there. Clinics on the island have been overwhelmed with patients since Hurricane Maria made landfall there, but patients and staff say theyre not sure how to start sending sick people over. The ship, the USNS Comfort, is sitting right off shore with just 13 per cent of its 250 beds in use nearly two weeks after it arrived. The Comfort was deployed to Puerto Rico as a part of the US federal response to the storm, which devastated the island and left hospitals vulnerable to power outages, limited water supplies, and food shortages. The Puerto Rico Department of Health gets to decide which patients can get care aboard the Comfort, but referrals have been minimal so far. Ricardo Rossello, the governor of the island, told CNN that the issue was not because a lack of infrastructure, or physical means of getting patients to the ship. The disconnect or the apparent disconnect was in the communications flow, Mr Rossello said. I asked for a complete revision of that so that we can now start sending more patients over there. 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 For doctors and care providers working in clinics and hospitals running on generators, speeding up the process could mean life or death for patients. While the official death toll has creeped up to 48 so far, reports from the island indicate that people have been dying in hospitals as doctors run out of medication or fuel from generators, leaving people who rely on oxygen, or dialysis, at risk. As of Sunday, 85 per cent of the island still lacked power. Captain Kevin Robinson, the mission commander aboard the Comfort, told CNN that help is waiting for those in need. I know that we have capacity. I know that we have the capacity to help. What the situation on the ground is thats not in my lane to make a decision, Mr Robinson said. Every time weve been tasked by [Puerto Ricos] medical operation centre to respond or bring a patient on, we have responded. The ship has 250 beds, and just 33 of them are in use. 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 }} Donald Trumps former communications chief is at the centre of fresh controversy after his new media project tweeted an online poll asking people to select how many Jews were killed in the Holocaust. Since being abruptly forced from the White House after just 11 days by Mr Trumps Chief of Staff John Kelly, Anthony Scaramucci has been getting ready to launch a new media venture, titled the Scaramucci Post. Launched in collaboration with former hedge fund manager Lance Laifer, the undertaking was unveiled at an event two weeks ago, though the men provided few details about the project they were giving birth to. The post was taken down after an online outcry (Twitter) Mr Scaramucci, who was forced out from his White House job in July, told a New York radio station his news outlet would be about what is right and wrong in the society right now, as opposed to what is left and right. Yet while Mr Scaramucci was in the UK - on Monday he addressed the Oxford Union - his fledgling media outlet created outcry by posting a Twitter poll asking people how many Jews lost their lives in the Holocaust. The Nazi campaign to wipe out Jews and other minorities from Europe, resulted in the deaths of six million Jews along with countless numbers of Roma and prisoners of war from countries such as the Soviet Union. Scaramucci to Colbert: 'If it were up to me, Bannon would be gone' The poll posted by the Scarammuci Post asked people too choose from one of four answers, ranging from less than one million to more than five million. The Anti-Defamation League, which campaigns against antisemitism, was among many groups and individuals demanding that the post be removed. 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 This question is beyond resolved @scaramuccipost. Take it down, the ADL tweeted. ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt said in a later statement that removing the survey was the right move: The Twitter poll was clearly insensitive and could play into the hands of Holocaust deniers. The post was taken down within two hours. The intent of the poll was to highlight ignorance of the basic facts of the Holocaust. I take full responsibility for it, said a Scaramucci Post tweet. A following tweet, added: This is @lancelaifer and I apologise if anyone was offended by the Holocaust poll. CNN reporter Jake Tapper said on Twitter: Source close to @Scaramucci says hes furious about Holocaust-denying tweet. It will be taken down as soon as possible. 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 }} Donald Trump's decision not to re-certify the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran is pushing the US "down the road to war," the former chief of staff for ex-Secretary of State Colin Powell has warned. Retired US Army Colonel Lawrence Wilkerson said he "absolutely" thinks the end game is to provoke Iran enough in order to go to war. "The German minister summed it up quite well, he said what Trump has done is make the Iran agreement a domestic play thing, in other words domestic politics," he told MSNBC's AM Joy programme. "By doing that hes assured that the nuclear agreement will fail ultimately, and then what you have is one choice: war." EU condemns Donald Trump's decision to decertify Iran nuclear deal German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said if the US Conress decides to reimpose sanctions or terminate the deal completely, it could result in Iran developing nuclear weapons and raising the threat of conflict. Asked if he thought the end game of Congress's move to impose new sanctions against Iran was to provoke the country to war, Mr Wilkerson replied: "Absolutely. I think that we're doing the same thing we did in 2003 with Iraq. "We're marching down the road to war. If you think Iraq was a bad war, wait until you see Iran." Mr Trump's refusal to formally certify Tehran was complying with the 2015 accord and his accusations it violated the deal led Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to accuse him to making "baseless accusations." In response, the US President said Iran was spreading "death, destruction and chaos" around the world with its actions in Syria, Iraq and Yemen. Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Show all 30 1 /30 Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Threatening to shut down Twitter after being fact-checked After the president tweeted that voting by post would be "substantially fraudulent", Twitter attached a warning label to his tweet and referred readers to a site which explained how the claim was "unsubstantiated". Trump then said Twitter was "stifling free speech" and that he may have to shut it down, something which he would not have the power to do AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Flippantly dismissing a serious allegation of sexual assault When author E Jean Carroll accused Trump of raping her, the president responded: Number one, shes not my type. Number two, it never happened. It never happened, OK?" AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Insulting the Mayor of London as he landed in London Just before touching down at Stansted Airport for his state visit, Trump took time out to @ the London mayor Sadiq Khan on twitter. He said that Khan has done a "terrible job"as mayor and that he is a "stone cold loser" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Taking plenty of "Executive Time" The president's official schedule sets aside the hours from 8 to 11am daily for "Executive Time". Further intermittent periods of "Executive Time" are scheduled throughout any given day, ranging from 15 minutes to 3 hours. His duties in these hours have not been officially disclosed, though Axios reports that he spends them watching TV, reading the newspapers and tweeting Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Shutdown the government for over a month in an effort to secure funding for his wall With Mexico declining to pay for the wall, the president has faced difficulty in raising the required $5bn at home. Due to his demand that the money for the wall be included in the budget, and Congress's refusal, the government partially shut down on 22 December 2018. It remained shut for over a month, the longest period in history Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Joking about the Nazi occupation of France to President Macron In this tweet from 13 November 2018, the president mocks Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of a "true, European army" by invoking the conflict between France and Germany in the world wars Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Railing against the Mueller investigation The president has repeatedly claimed that the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, is a "rigged witch hunt" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting a US intelligence report on Russian meddling in the presence of Vladimir Putin In the press conference that followed his landmark meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, Trump stated that he saw no reason why Russia would have meddled in the 2016 US election. This contradicted a 2017 report by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence that found evidence of Russian interference in favour of Trump Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting his contradiction of a US intelligence report on Russian meddling Following furious backlash in the US, the president claimed that he meant to say that he saw no reason why it would not have been Russia who meddled in the 2016 US election. As to why he would have intended to use such bizarre phrasing, he did not comment Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Colouring in the US flag wrong The president coloured in the US flag wrongly during a visit to a children's hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He added a blue stripe where in tradition, and statute, there have been only white and red stripes AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing a Secretary of State over Twitter The president announced on Twitter that he was appointing Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State, much to the surprise of then Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Quoting a catchphrase from a reality TV show when discussing police brutality While addressing the issue of black athletes not standing for the national anthem in protest of police brutality, the president made reference to his catchphrase from reality TV show "The Apprentice": you're fired! Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Calling African nations "S***hole Countries" Ever one for diplomacy, the president reportedly referred to African nations as "s***hole countries". Asked to confirm this when meeting with Nigeria's President Buhari, Trump stated that there are "some countries that are in very bad shape". Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Defending Russian President Vladimir Putin Trump appeared to equate US foreign actions to those of Russian president Vladimir Putin, saying: There are a lot of killers. You think our countrys so innocent? Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Asking for people to 'pray' for Arnold Schwarzenegger At the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump couldnt help but to ask for prayers for the ratings on Arnold Schwarzeneggers show to be good. Schwarzenegger took over as host of The Apprentice which buoyed Trumps celebrity status years ago Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Hanging up on Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull Early in his presidency, Trump reportedly hung up the phone on Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull after the foreign leader angered him over refugee plans. Mr Trump later said that it was the worst call he had had so far Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... The 'Muslim ban' Perhaps one of his most controversial policies while acting as president, Trumps travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries has bought him a lot of criticism. The bans were immediately protested, and judges initially blocked their implementation. The Supreme Court later sided with the administrations argument that the ban was developed out of concern for US security Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Praising crowd size while touring Hurricane Harvey damage After Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeastern Texas, Trump paid the area a visit. While his response to the disaster in Houston was generally applauded, the president picked up some flack when he gave a speech outside Houston (he reportedly did not visit disaster zones), and praised the size of the crowds there AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... 'Little Rocket Man' During his first-ever speech to the United Nations General Assembly, Trump tried out a new nickname for North Korea leader Kim Jong-un: Rocket Man. He later tweaked it to be little Rocket Man as the two feuded, and threatened each other with nuclear war. During that speech, he also threatened to totally annihilate North Korea Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Attacking Sadiq Khan following London Bridge terror attack After the attack on the London Bridge, Trump lashed out at London Mayor Sadiq Khan, criticising Khan for saying there was no reason to be alarmed after the attack. Trump was taking the comments out of context, as Khan was simply saying that the police had everything under control Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming presenter Mika Brezinkski was 'bleeding from the face' Never one not to mock his enemies, Trump mocked MSNBCs Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski, saying that she and co-host Joe Scarborough had approached him before his inauguration asking to join him. He noted that she was bleeding badly from a face-lift at the time, and that he said no MSNBC Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming the blame for Charlottesville was on 'both sides' Trump refused to condemn far-right extremists involved in violence at 'the march for the right' protests in Charlottesville, even after the murder of counter protester Heather Heyer AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Retweeting cartoon of CNN being hit by a 'Trump train' Trump retweeted a cartoon showing a Trump-branded train running over a person whose body and head were replaced by a CNN avatar. He later deleted the retweet Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Tweeting about 'slamming' CNN Trump caught some flack when he tweeted a video showing him wrestling down an individual whose head had been replaced by a CNN avatar. Trump has singled CNN out in particular with his chants of fake news Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing head of the FBI, James Comey Trumps firing of former FBI Director James Comey landed him with a federal investigation into Russias meddling in the 2016 election that has caused many a headache for the White House. The White House initially said that the decision was made after consultation from the Justice Department. Then Mr Trump himself said that he had decided to fire him in part because he wanted the Russia investigation Mr Comey was conducting to stop Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Not realising being president would be 'hard' Just three months into his presidency, Trump admitted that being president is harder than he thought it would be. Though Trump insisted on the 2016 campaign trail that doing the job would be easy for him, he admitted in an interview that living in the White House is harder than running a business empire Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Accusing Obama of wiretapping him Trump accused former president Barack Obama of wire tapping him on twitter. The Justice Department later clarified: Obama had not, in fact, done so Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming there had been 3 million 'illegal votes' Trump was never very happy about losing the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by 2.8 million ballots. So, he and White House voter-fraud commissioner Kris Kobach have claimed that anywhere between three and five million people voted illegally during the 2016 election. Conveniently, he says that all of those illegal votes went to Clinton. (There is no evidence to support that level of widespread voter fraud.) Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Leaving Jews out of the Holocaust memorial statement Just days after taking office, Trumps White House issued a statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, but didnt mention jews or even the word jewish in the written statement Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Anger over Inauguration crowd size Trumps inauguration crowd was visibly, and noticeably, smaller than that of his predecessor, Barack Obama. But, he really wanted to have had the largest crowd on record. So, he praised it as the biggest crowd ever. Relatedly, Trump also claimed that it stopped raining in Washington at the moment he was inaugurated. It didnt, the day was very dreary Reuters When he was asked to describe why he believed the war would be worse, Mr Wilkerson said: "Trump said yesterday Iran is spreading global destruction, chaos - Saudi Arabia is the one doing that. "The bloody war in Yemen, which we're sad to say, involved in with refuelling and targeting intelligence and bombs is the bloodiest war on the face of the Earth right now. The greatest humanitarian disaster since WWII with cholera and starvation. We're part of that." He added: "The Saudis are far worse than Iran and we're getting ready to make that situation even worse, more profoundly destabilising, by taking on Iran militarily. There is no other choice. If you say it's unacceptable like Tillerson did, that Iran has a nuclear weapon, you either get [rid of them] through diplomacy or you get it through war." Describing developing situations in Venezuela, Iran and Syria, he said: "I'll look at the camera right now and tell every GI out there, you've had 17 straight years of war, get ready for 17 more." 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 }} Late night television show host Jimmy Kimmel has dismissed losing Republican viewers in light of his controversial segments on healthcare and gun control and said: "Not good riddance, but riddance!" Indeed, he told a US broadcaster he would "do it again in a heartbeat". I want everyone with a television to watch the show, Mr Kimmel. He told CBS that he was liked equally by both Republicans and Democrats just three years ago. But the number of more politically conservative numbers went way down - like 30 per cent, he said. The less than ideal ratings numbers aside, Mr Kimmel, said: If theyre so turned off by my opinion on health care and gun violence, then I dont know. I probably wont want to have a conversation with them anyway. Jimmy Kimmel cries about mass shooting in Las Vegas The Jimmy Kimmel Live host was not always a political comedian or commentator, but told the New York Times that Donald Trumps presidency had pushed him in that direction. Back in May, Mr Kimmel gave emotional monologue on Republicans proposed replacement of Obamacare by telling the story of how his son Billy was born with a defect that required heart surgeries and a lengthy hospital stay. 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 You know, before 2014, if you were born with congenital heart disease like my son was, theres a good chance youd never be able to get health insurance because you had a pre-existing condition...If your baby is going to die and it doesnt have to, it shouldnt matter how much money you make, Mr Kimmel said on his show. Pundits took to rating the various versions of the replacement bill, the latest is the Graham-Cassidy bill, by the Jimmy Kimmel test based on the provisions of pre-existing coverage that saved Billys life. In the wake of the Las Vegas mass shooting during which 58 people died and almost 500 were injured, Mr Kimmel said on his show: "It's the kind of thing that makes you want to throw up or give up." Stephen Paddock fired several hundred rounds from a perch on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino into a crowd of 22,000 people attending the Route 91 Harvest country music festival. "I don't know why our so-called leaders continue to allow this to happen, or maybe a better question, why do we continue to let them to allow it to happen?, Mr Kimmel said, on the verge of tears. Some things are more important than bringing in a big audience, he told the newspaper, adding that he hopes one day the country can return to focusing on a well-rounded show that is more about celebrities like Beyonce and Jay-Z rather than politicians. 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 }} John McCain has denounced "half-baked, spurious nationalism" during a speech at his National Constitution Centre Liberty Medal ceremony, in a thinly veiled dig at Donald Trump. The six-term Republican senator went further than the night's other speakers, who lamented what many described as a fractured political climate. "To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems," he said, "is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history." He continued: "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil." EU condemns Donald Trump's decision to decertify Iran nuclear deal He made the remarks after receiving the award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to his country, going on to recall more than two decades of Navy service and his imprisonment in a Vietnam prisoner of war camp. None of the speakers, who included former Vice President Joe Biden, mentioned any current or former government officials during their remarks. But many referenced a time when bipartisanship namely, the friendship between Mr McCain and the Democrat Mr Biden wasn't out of the ordinary. "We often argued sometimes passionately," Mr McCain said of himself and the former vice president. "But we believed in each other's patriotism and the sincerity of each other's convictions. We believed in the institution we were privileged to serve in." Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Show all 30 1 /30 Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Threatening to shut down Twitter after being fact-checked After the president tweeted that voting by post would be "substantially fraudulent", Twitter attached a warning label to his tweet and referred readers to a site which explained how the claim was "unsubstantiated". Trump then said Twitter was "stifling free speech" and that he may have to shut it down, something which he would not have the power to do AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Flippantly dismissing a serious allegation of sexual assault When author E Jean Carroll accused Trump of raping her, the president responded: Number one, shes not my type. Number two, it never happened. It never happened, OK?" AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Insulting the Mayor of London as he landed in London Just before touching down at Stansted Airport for his state visit, Trump took time out to @ the London mayor Sadiq Khan on twitter. He said that Khan has done a "terrible job"as mayor and that he is a "stone cold loser" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Taking plenty of "Executive Time" The president's official schedule sets aside the hours from 8 to 11am daily for "Executive Time". Further intermittent periods of "Executive Time" are scheduled throughout any given day, ranging from 15 minutes to 3 hours. His duties in these hours have not been officially disclosed, though Axios reports that he spends them watching TV, reading the newspapers and tweeting Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Shutdown the government for over a month in an effort to secure funding for his wall With Mexico declining to pay for the wall, the president has faced difficulty in raising the required $5bn at home. Due to his demand that the money for the wall be included in the budget, and Congress's refusal, the government partially shut down on 22 December 2018. It remained shut for over a month, the longest period in history Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Joking about the Nazi occupation of France to President Macron In this tweet from 13 November 2018, the president mocks Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of a "true, European army" by invoking the conflict between France and Germany in the world wars Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Railing against the Mueller investigation The president has repeatedly claimed that the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, is a "rigged witch hunt" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting a US intelligence report on Russian meddling in the presence of Vladimir Putin In the press conference that followed his landmark meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, Trump stated that he saw no reason why Russia would have meddled in the 2016 US election. This contradicted a 2017 report by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence that found evidence of Russian interference in favour of Trump Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting his contradiction of a US intelligence report on Russian meddling Following furious backlash in the US, the president claimed that he meant to say that he saw no reason why it would not have been Russia who meddled in the 2016 US election. As to why he would have intended to use such bizarre phrasing, he did not comment Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Colouring in the US flag wrong The president coloured in the US flag wrongly during a visit to a children's hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He added a blue stripe where in tradition, and statute, there have been only white and red stripes AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing a Secretary of State over Twitter The president announced on Twitter that he was appointing Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State, much to the surprise of then Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Quoting a catchphrase from a reality TV show when discussing police brutality While addressing the issue of black athletes not standing for the national anthem in protest of police brutality, the president made reference to his catchphrase from reality TV show "The Apprentice": you're fired! Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Calling African nations "S***hole Countries" Ever one for diplomacy, the president reportedly referred to African nations as "s***hole countries". Asked to confirm this when meeting with Nigeria's President Buhari, Trump stated that there are "some countries that are in very bad shape". Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Defending Russian President Vladimir Putin Trump appeared to equate US foreign actions to those of Russian president Vladimir Putin, saying: There are a lot of killers. You think our countrys so innocent? Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Asking for people to 'pray' for Arnold Schwarzenegger At the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump couldnt help but to ask for prayers for the ratings on Arnold Schwarzeneggers show to be good. Schwarzenegger took over as host of The Apprentice which buoyed Trumps celebrity status years ago Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Hanging up on Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull Early in his presidency, Trump reportedly hung up the phone on Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull after the foreign leader angered him over refugee plans. Mr Trump later said that it was the worst call he had had so far Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... The 'Muslim ban' Perhaps one of his most controversial policies while acting as president, Trumps travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries has bought him a lot of criticism. The bans were immediately protested, and judges initially blocked their implementation. The Supreme Court later sided with the administrations argument that the ban was developed out of concern for US security Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Praising crowd size while touring Hurricane Harvey damage After Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeastern Texas, Trump paid the area a visit. While his response to the disaster in Houston was generally applauded, the president picked up some flack when he gave a speech outside Houston (he reportedly did not visit disaster zones), and praised the size of the crowds there AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... 'Little Rocket Man' During his first-ever speech to the United Nations General Assembly, Trump tried out a new nickname for North Korea leader Kim Jong-un: Rocket Man. He later tweaked it to be little Rocket Man as the two feuded, and threatened each other with nuclear war. During that speech, he also threatened to totally annihilate North Korea Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Attacking Sadiq Khan following London Bridge terror attack After the attack on the London Bridge, Trump lashed out at London Mayor Sadiq Khan, criticising Khan for saying there was no reason to be alarmed after the attack. Trump was taking the comments out of context, as Khan was simply saying that the police had everything under control Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming presenter Mika Brezinkski was 'bleeding from the face' Never one not to mock his enemies, Trump mocked MSNBCs Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski, saying that she and co-host Joe Scarborough had approached him before his inauguration asking to join him. He noted that she was bleeding badly from a face-lift at the time, and that he said no MSNBC Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming the blame for Charlottesville was on 'both sides' Trump refused to condemn far-right extremists involved in violence at 'the march for the right' protests in Charlottesville, even after the murder of counter protester Heather Heyer AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Retweeting cartoon of CNN being hit by a 'Trump train' Trump retweeted a cartoon showing a Trump-branded train running over a person whose body and head were replaced by a CNN avatar. He later deleted the retweet Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Tweeting about 'slamming' CNN Trump caught some flack when he tweeted a video showing him wrestling down an individual whose head had been replaced by a CNN avatar. Trump has singled CNN out in particular with his chants of fake news Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing head of the FBI, James Comey Trumps firing of former FBI Director James Comey landed him with a federal investigation into Russias meddling in the 2016 election that has caused many a headache for the White House. The White House initially said that the decision was made after consultation from the Justice Department. Then Mr Trump himself said that he had decided to fire him in part because he wanted the Russia investigation Mr Comey was conducting to stop Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Not realising being president would be 'hard' Just three months into his presidency, Trump admitted that being president is harder than he thought it would be. Though Trump insisted on the 2016 campaign trail that doing the job would be easy for him, he admitted in an interview that living in the White House is harder than running a business empire Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Accusing Obama of wiretapping him Trump accused former president Barack Obama of wire tapping him on twitter. The Justice Department later clarified: Obama had not, in fact, done so Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming there had been 3 million 'illegal votes' Trump was never very happy about losing the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by 2.8 million ballots. So, he and White House voter-fraud commissioner Kris Kobach have claimed that anywhere between three and five million people voted illegally during the 2016 election. Conveniently, he says that all of those illegal votes went to Clinton. (There is no evidence to support that level of widespread voter fraud.) Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Leaving Jews out of the Holocaust memorial statement Just days after taking office, Trumps White House issued a statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, but didnt mention jews or even the word jewish in the written statement Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Anger over Inauguration crowd size Trumps inauguration crowd was visibly, and noticeably, smaller than that of his predecessor, Barack Obama. But, he really wanted to have had the largest crowd on record. So, he praised it as the biggest crowd ever. Relatedly, Trump also claimed that it stopped raining in Washington at the moment he was inaugurated. It didnt, the day was very dreary Reuters Mr McCain joined the Navy in 1958 and rose to the rank of captain during his 22 years of service. In 1967, his plane was shot down over Hanoi, Vietnam, during a bombing mission, and he spent years in a Vietnamese prisoner of war camp. He recently revealed he is fighting brain cancer. Additional reporting by AP Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A man who claims he was tossed from a Manhattan bar for wearing a Make America Great Again Hat is arguing the watering hole violated his spiritual beliefs. Greg Piatek has sued The Happiest Hour bar for allegedly refusing him service because he was sporting one of the red hats that became an emblem of Donald Trumps presidential campaign. The bar has disputed that account in court filings and media interviews, saying Mr Piatek paid a tab covering several drinks and tipped well. But wearing the hat wasn't just a political statement - it was a manifestation of religious belief that makes Mr Piatek a discriminated-against member of a protected class, according to a new court filing from Mr Piateks lawyer first reported by the New York Daily News. Mr Piatek donned the hat as a spiritual matter after having visited the site where the former World Trade Center fell on 9/11, according to the court filing, and Mr Piatek was adhering to his closely held spiritual beliefs by adorning the hat in question. He did not wear the hat to espouse support for a political candidate or point of view but because he believes the hat is representative of a set of closely held spiritual aspirations and convictions that entirely transcend the political realm, the filing argues. In an emailed statement, an attorney for The Happiest Hour rejected Mr Piateks latest claims. In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour Show all 39 1 /39 In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 20 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud arriving for a reception ahead of a banquet at Murabba Palace in Riyadh Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 20 May 2017 US President Donald Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, and Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud being welcomed at Murabba Palace in Riyadh Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 20 May 2017 US President Donald J. Trump with King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud during a welcome ceremony with traditional sword dancers at Murabba Palace, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia EPA In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 20 May 2017 King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud with US President Donald J. Trump and wife Melania during a welcome ceremony at Murabba Palace, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia EPA In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 20 May 2017 US President Donald Trump adjusts the Collar of Abdulaziz Al Saud Medal, after it was bestowed upon him by Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the Royal Court in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 20 May 2017 Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud presents U.S. President Donald Trump with the Collar of Abdulaziz Al Saud Medal at the Royal Court in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 21 May 2017 Palestinians print posters depicting US President Donald Trump in preparations for his planned visit, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 21 May 2017 US President Donald Trump accompanied by first lady Melania Trump, his daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband White House senior advisor Jared Kushner, before delivering his remarks to the Arab Islamic American Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 21 May 2017 US President Donald Trump looks on as U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Muhammad bin Nayef exchange a memorandum of understanding Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 21 May 2017 First Lady Melania Trump shares a laugh with a child during a visit to the American International School in the Saudi capital Riyadh Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 21 May 2017 US President Donald Trump holds a bilateral meeting with Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 Israeli soldiers rest during preparations ahead of President Trump's landing in Tel Aviv, Israel Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 First Lady Melania Trump makes her way to board Air Force One in Riyadh as she heads with her husband the US President to Israel Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump board Air Force One for Israel, the next stop in Trump's international tour, at King Khalid International Airport AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 Israeli soldiers wait for the arrival ceremony of US President Donald Trump at Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv, Israel AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrive aboard Air Force One at Ben Gurion International Airport in Lod near Tel Aviv, Israel Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump disembark Air Force One on arrival at Ben Gurion International Airport AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald J. Trump and his wife, US First Lady Melania Trump are welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, in Lod outside Tel Aviv, Israel EPA In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sit during welcome ceremony in Tel Aviv AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US First Lady Melania Trump chats wife Sara Netanyahu as US President Donald Trump chats to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a welcoming ceremony to welcome Trump at Ben Gurion International Airport Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump delivers a speech upon his arrival at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump gestures during a press conference with Israel's President at the President's Residence in Jerusalem Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump watches as First Lady Melania Trump signs the guest book at the President's Residence in Jerusalem Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump walks with first lady Melania Trump in Jerusalem's Old City Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump visits the Western Wall, the holiest site where Jews can pray, in Jerusalems Old City Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump stands next to Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz at the plaza in front of the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest prayer site, in Jerusalem's Old City Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and White House senior advisor Jared Kushner leave notes at the Western Wall in Jerusalem Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 US First Lady Melania Trump touches the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest prayer site, in Jerusalem's Old City EPA In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 Ivanka Trump, assistant and daughter of US President Donald J. Trump, touches the Western Wall, Judaism's holiest prayer site, in Jerusalem's Old City EPA In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 22 May 2017 President Donald Trump visits the Western Wall AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 US President Donald J. Trump arrives in a vehicle to Saint Damaso's Court for a private audience with Pope Francis in Vatican City EPA In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 Pope Francis walks past Ivanka Trump and First Lady Melania Trump on the occasion of the private audience with President Donald Trump, at the Vatican AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 Pope Francis exchanges gifts with US President Donald Trump during a private audience at the Vatican Getty Images In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 Pope Francis meets US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania during a private audience at the Vatican Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 Pope Francis with US President Donald J. Trump EPA In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 Pope Francis gets into is car after meeting with US President Donald Trump AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 President Donald Trump and his wife Melania look at the frescoed ceilings during their visit to the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican L'Osservatore Romano/Pool Photo via AP In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 US President Donald Trump security vehicles are seen in front of Air Force One before take off from Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in Rome, Italy Reuters In pictures: President Donald Trump on tour 24 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump wave to reporters before boarding the Air Force One to Brussels, at the end of a 2-day visit to Italy including a meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican, at Rome's Fiumicino international airport AP The plaintiffs vague and conclusory arguments are entirely fanciful, attorney S Preston Ricardo said. They have no support in the law. And they continue to show that the action is nothing more than an ill-conceived publicity stunt guised as a lawsuit. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Obama administration potentially knew of corruption at a Russian nuclear supplier years before it agreed to sign over 20 per cent of US's uranium supply to the company, a new report has claimed. The Hill claims federal agents found evidence of illegal payments made to an employee at a Russian nuclear company years before the Obama administration allowed the company to make a major business deal. Employees at Tenex, a subsidiary of Rosatom the regulatory body of the Russian nuclear complex received bribes and kickbacks from American companies as early as 2009, according to the Hill. An undercover agent made secret recordings, collected financial records, and intercepted emails documenting the payments the earliest of which was recorded in September 2009. Recommended Barack Obama is coming back to politics after leaving White House But in 2010, the Obama administration allowed Rosatom to move forward with the purchase of Canadian mining company Uranium One, effectively giving Moscow control of more than 20 per cent of Americas uranium supply. The next year, they allowed Tenex to expand the amount of nuclear products they sold in the US. The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 Show all 10 1 /10 The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 21: U.S. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama thank supporters during the Commander in Chief Inaugural Ball at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on January 21, 2013 in Washington, DC. President Obama was sworn in for his second term earlier in the day. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 U.S. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama arrive for the Inaugural Ball at the Walter Washington Convention Center January 21, 2013 in Washington, DC. President Obama started his second term by taking the Oath of Office earlier in the day during a ceremony on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 U.S. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama arrive for the Inaugural Ball at the Walter Washington Convention Center January 21, 2013 in Washington, DC. President Obama started his second term by taking the Oath of Office earlier in the day during a ceremony on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 U.S. President Barack Obama dances with first lady Michelle Obama during the Inaugural Ball January 21, 2013 at Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. Barack Obama was re-elected for a second term as President of the United States. Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama ride in a golf cart an Inaugural ball 1/20/09 Official White House Photo by Pete Souza Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama dance during the Youth Inaugural Ball at the Hilton Washington in Washington, DC, January 20, 2009. Obama was sworn in as the 44th US president earlier in the day. AFP PHOTO / Saul LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 (L-R) US President George W. Bush, First Lady Laura Bush, Michelle Obama and president-elect Barack Obama stand outside the Diplomatic entrance of the White House on November 10, 2008 in Washington. Obama is visiting the White House at the invitation of Bush ahead of his January 20, 2009 inauguration as the next president. AFP PHOTO/Tim SLOAN (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images) Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 (L-R) US President George W. Bush, First Lady Laura Bush, Michelle Obama and president-elect Barack Obama stand outside the Diplomatic entrance of the White House on November 10, 2008 in Washington. Obama is visiting the White House at the invitation of Bush ahead of his January 20, 2009 inauguration as the next president. AFP PHOTO/Tim SLOAN (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 US President George W. Bush and president-elect Barack Obama make their way through the Colonnade on November 10, 208 to a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. Obama is visiting the White House at the invitation of Bush ahead of his January 20, 2009 inauguration as the next president. AFP PHOTO/Mandel NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images The Obamas celebrate the Inauguration in 2009 and 2013 performs during MTV & ServiceNation: Live From The Youth Inaugural Ball at the Hilton Washington on January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. President Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States today, becoming the first African-American to be elected President of the US. Getty Images The decision sparked controversy years later, following a 2015 bombshell report: The New York Times found Moscow had paid millions of dollars to the Clinton Foundation at the same time the US was pondering the Rosatom deal. Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State at the time. A spokesman for Ms Clintons presidential campaign told the Times that no one had ever produced "a shred of evidence supporting the theory that Hillary Clinton ever took action as secretary of state to support the interests of donors to the Clinton Foundation". To suggest the State Department, under then-Secretary Clinton, exerted undue influence in the U.S. governments review of the sale of Uranium One is utterly baseless, the spokesperson said. Trump implies he had dirt on Clinton same day as Trump Jr's Russia meeting That same year, federal agents arrested Vadim Mikerin a top executive at Tenex for arranging more than $2m in payments in exchange for contracts from the company, according to the Department of Justice. During the DOJ investigation, Mikerin admitted to conspiring with others to send more than $2m to offshore shell company bank accounts in Cyprus, Latvia and Switzerland. He was forced to forfeit the money, and was sentenced to 48 months in jail. The arrest made little news at the time, but legislators told the Hill that they were concerned that the Obama administration had not disclosed reports of corruption earlier. Not providing information on a corruption scheme before the Russian uranium deal was approved by US regulators and engage appropriate congressional committees has served to undermine U.S. national security interests by the very people charged with protecting them, said former Representative Mike Rogers, who chaired the House Intelligence Committee while the investigation was being conducted. He added: The Russian efforts to manipulate our American political enterprise is breathtaking. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A federal judge has halted yet another of Donald Trumps travel bans, the latest in a series of legal setbacks for the presidents immigration agenda. In September, Mr Trump unveiled a new executive order - his third on the matter so far - indefinitely banning or curtailing travel from Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Chad, Venezuela and North Korea. U.S. District Court Judge Derrick Watson on Tuesday blocked implementation of much of that order (his decision does not affect Venezuelan and North Korean nationals) just hours before the ban was set to take effect, writing that it suffered from the same legal weaknesses as previous versions. Judge Watson has repeatedly ruled against the Trump administration in legal clashes over travel bans, blocking an earlier version and later moving to expand the universe of relatives who could be admitted. Read more The order discriminates based on nationality in a way courts have deemed antithetical...to the founding principles of this Nation, the judge wrote. The White House responded by slamming Judge Watson's order and vowing to press ahead with a court battle, arguing the order had been thoroughly vetted and would stand up to legal scrutiny. Todays dangerously flawed district court order undercuts the Presidents efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States, a White House statement said, adding that These restrictions are vital to ensuring that foreign nations comply with the minimum security standards required for the integrity of our immigration system and the security of our Nation. New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban Show all 27 1 /27 New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban Ethnic Yemenis and supporters protest against President Donald Trump's executive order temporarily banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen on February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. At least 1,000 Yemeni-owned bodegas and grocery-stores across the city shut down from noon to 8 p.m. today to protest the order. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban Men pray during a protest by ethnic Yemenis and supporters over President Donald Trump's executive order temporarily banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen on February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. At least 1,000 Yemeni-owned bodegas and grocery-stores across the city shut down from noon to 8 p.m. today to protest the order. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban Ethnic Yemenis and supporters protest against President Donald Trump's executive order temporarily banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen on February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. At least 1,000 Yemeni-owned bodegas and grocery-stores across the city shut down from noon to 8 p.m. today to protest the order. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban Men pray during a protest by ethnic Yemenis and supporters over President Donald Trump's executive order temporarily banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen on February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. At least 1,000 Yemeni-owned bodegas and grocery-stores across the city shut down from noon to 8 p.m. today to protest the order. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People gather for evening prayer at a rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally with flags at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally with flags at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally with flags at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally with flags at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally with flags at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest US President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban People rally at Brooklyn Borough Hall as Yemeni bodega and grocery-stores shut down to protest President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen, on February 2, 2017 in New York. Bryan R. Smith/AFP/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban A Yemeni business owner places a sign on the gate of his store February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Across the city, Yemeni owned bodega and grocery-stores will shut down from noon to 8 p.m. to protest President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen. It is expected that over 1000 stores will be closed in protest with workers and owners participating in an afternoon rally in Brooklyn. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban A Yemeni business owner places a sign on the gate of his store February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Across the city, Yemeni owned bodega and grocery-stores will shut down from noon to 8 p.m. to protest President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen. It is expected that over 1000 stores will be closed in protest with workers and owners participating in an afternoon rally in Brooklyn. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 02: Yemeni business owner Musa closes the gate to his store February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Across the city, Yemeni owned bodega and grocery-stores will shut down from noon to 8 p.m. to protest President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen. It is expected that over 1000 stores will be closed in protest with workers and owners participating in an afternoon rally in Brooklyn. Spencer Platt/Getty New York City bodegas strike to protest Trump's travel ban A Yemeni business owner closes the gate to his store February 2, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Across the city, Yemeni owned bodega and grocery-stores will shut down from noon to 8 p.m. to protest President Donald Trump's Executive Order banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen. It is expected that over 1000 stores will be closed in protest with workers and owners participating in an afternoon rally in Brooklyn. Spencer Platt/Getty Seeking to carry through on a campaign vow to crack down on immigration, Mr Trump has now issued three different prohibitions on travelers from mostly Muslim-majority countries. Courts have repeatedly thwarted his efforts, though the Supreme Court preserved a version of an earlier ban. Donald Trump blast "judicial overreach" as Hawaii judge blocks travel ban Donald Trump blast "judicial overreach" as Hawaii judge blocks travel ban The Supreme Court ultimately allowed aspects of the earlier travel ban to stand, handing the Trump administration a partial victory. It preserved a temporary halt on visitors from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and a suspension of refugee admissions in cases where people could not prove bona fide ties to the United States like immediate relatives or job offers. The high court last month cancelled arguments on those restrictions in anticipation of the broader, indefinite ban taking effect. That latest ban drew a legal challenge from the state of Hawaii, the Muslim Association of Hawaii, an Egyptian-American imam with Syrian relatives and a Yemeni-American man whose Yemeni son-in-law could be prevented from joining his wife. Other state attorneys general have added to the legal barrage. While Judge Watson said the federal government had not provided evidence that permitting banned travelers would be detrimental to the United States, he wrote that Hawaiis higher education system would suffer and that the ban would unjustifiably lead to prolonged separation from family members. He also maintained that the order would affect the Muslim Association because it diminishes the vibrancy of its religious practices and instills fear among its members. Defendants, on the other hand, are not likely harmed by having to adhere to immigration procedures that have been in place for yearsthat is, by maintaining the status quo, Judge Watson wrote. The American Civil Liberties Union hailed the ruling, with Immigrants Rights Project head Omar Jadwat saying in a statement that the organization was glad, but not surprised, that President Trumps illegal and unconstitutional Muslim ban has been blocked once again. 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 }} Barack Obamas White House photographer has led the charge in rebutting Donald Trumps claim that his predecessors did not call or console families of soldiers killed in action. Pete Souza, who has used his Instagram account to take subtle digs at Mr Trump, posted a picture of Mr Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama consoling the parents of Army Sergeant 1st Class Jared C Monti. Mr Monti, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2006, had been posthumously awarded the Medal of Honour, the nations highest award for military valour, wrote Mr Souza in the caption. It was the first of 52 Medals of Honour Mr Obama would award during his eight years in office. I also photographed him meeting with hundreds of wounded soldiers, and family members of those killed in action, he wrote. Mr Souza was inspired to act after Mr Trump had suggested that he was rare among presidents in that he either wrote or spoke with relatives of service members killed in action. If you look at President Obama and other presidents - most of them didn't make calls. A lot of them didn't make calls, Mr Trump had said. He later sought to walk the claim back, though did not apologise for his error when it was pointed out. Mr Souza, who left the White House this January when Mr Trump assumed the presidency, said Mr Obama was also known for making monthly visits to Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Bethesda, Maryland, to visit wounded soldiers. These visits were not made public until near the end of his time in office. He and Ms Obama also had a Gold Star Christmas tree every year, honouring the families of fallen soldiers. Several staffers and former Cabinet members also took to social media to criticise Mr Trump as well. Mr Trump was responding to questions as to why he had remained uncharacteristically silent on the deaths of four US soldiers in Niger 12 days ago. Staff Sergeants Bryan Black, Jeremiah Johnson, Dustin Wright and Sergeant La David T Johnson were ambushed when patrolling with Niger troops by militants thought to be affiliated with terror group Isis. It was the deadliest attack on the US military since he took office in January. John McCain appears to rebuke Trump by slamming "half-baked nationalism" I was told [Mr Obama] didnt often and a lot of Presidents dont. They write letters...I do a combination of both. Sometimes its a very difficult thing to do...President Obama, I think, probably did sometimes and maybe sometimes he didnt. I dont know. Thats what I was told, he said to reporters. Delila OMalley, whose Twitter bio says she is a lifelong Republican but opposed to Mr Trump, called the president a fat f***ing liar. The Gold Star family member described when her brothers remains were returned home after he was killed in the Iraq war, saying President George W Bush listened while I screamed at him & then held me as I sobbed. The tweet has received nearly 120,000 retweets. Alyssa Mastromonaco, former Deputy Chief of Staff to Mr Obama, said Mr Trump's claim was a f***ing lie. Mr Obamas foreign policy advisor Ben Rhodes called it an outrageous lie and reminded followers when Mr Trump mocked a Gold Star family last year on the campaign trail - Khizr and Ghazala Khan, whose son Humayun was killed in 2004 in Iraq. The 18th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Retd. General Marty Dempsey said both Presidents Bush and Obama as well as the First Ladies cared deeply and worked tirelessly for soldiers. Former Attorney General Eric Holder followed suit, tweeting to Mr Trump to stop the damn lying and included a picture of Mr Obama at Dover Air Force Base, saluting and waiting for the bodies of fallen service members. 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 }} Donald Trump has been called a deranged animal by members of former President Barack Obamas staff for his controversial comments about his predecessor. At a recent press White House press conference, Mr Trump was questioned about the four American soldiers who were killed in action this month in Niger. Asked why he had not spoken out about the issue, Mr Trump blamed the presidents before him. So the traditional way, if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didnt make calls [to the families]. A lot of them didnt make calls, Mr Trump said. I like to call when its appropriate, when I think Im able to do it. Alyssa Mastromonaco, the former White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, quickly shot back on Twitter. [T]hat's a fucking lie, she tweeted. to say president obama (or past presidents) didn't call the family members of soldiers KIA - he's a deranged animal. Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Show all 30 1 /30 Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Threatening to shut down Twitter after being fact-checked After the president tweeted that voting by post would be "substantially fraudulent", Twitter attached a warning label to his tweet and referred readers to a site which explained how the claim was "unsubstantiated". Trump then said Twitter was "stifling free speech" and that he may have to shut it down, something which he would not have the power to do AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Flippantly dismissing a serious allegation of sexual assault When author E Jean Carroll accused Trump of raping her, the president responded: Number one, shes not my type. Number two, it never happened. It never happened, OK?" AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Insulting the Mayor of London as he landed in London Just before touching down at Stansted Airport for his state visit, Trump took time out to @ the London mayor Sadiq Khan on twitter. He said that Khan has done a "terrible job"as mayor and that he is a "stone cold loser" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Taking plenty of "Executive Time" The president's official schedule sets aside the hours from 8 to 11am daily for "Executive Time". Further intermittent periods of "Executive Time" are scheduled throughout any given day, ranging from 15 minutes to 3 hours. His duties in these hours have not been officially disclosed, though Axios reports that he spends them watching TV, reading the newspapers and tweeting Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Shutdown the government for over a month in an effort to secure funding for his wall With Mexico declining to pay for the wall, the president has faced difficulty in raising the required $5bn at home. Due to his demand that the money for the wall be included in the budget, and Congress's refusal, the government partially shut down on 22 December 2018. It remained shut for over a month, the longest period in history Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Joking about the Nazi occupation of France to President Macron In this tweet from 13 November 2018, the president mocks Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of a "true, European army" by invoking the conflict between France and Germany in the world wars Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Railing against the Mueller investigation The president has repeatedly claimed that the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, is a "rigged witch hunt" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting a US intelligence report on Russian meddling in the presence of Vladimir Putin In the press conference that followed his landmark meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, Trump stated that he saw no reason why Russia would have meddled in the 2016 US election. This contradicted a 2017 report by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence that found evidence of Russian interference in favour of Trump Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting his contradiction of a US intelligence report on Russian meddling Following furious backlash in the US, the president claimed that he meant to say that he saw no reason why it would not have been Russia who meddled in the 2016 US election. As to why he would have intended to use such bizarre phrasing, he did not comment Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Colouring in the US flag wrong The president coloured in the US flag wrongly during a visit to a children's hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He added a blue stripe where in tradition, and statute, there have been only white and red stripes AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing a Secretary of State over Twitter The president announced on Twitter that he was appointing Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State, much to the surprise of then Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Quoting a catchphrase from a reality TV show when discussing police brutality While addressing the issue of black athletes not standing for the national anthem in protest of police brutality, the president made reference to his catchphrase from reality TV show "The Apprentice": you're fired! Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Calling African nations "S***hole Countries" Ever one for diplomacy, the president reportedly referred to African nations as "s***hole countries". Asked to confirm this when meeting with Nigeria's President Buhari, Trump stated that there are "some countries that are in very bad shape". Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Defending Russian President Vladimir Putin Trump appeared to equate US foreign actions to those of Russian president Vladimir Putin, saying: There are a lot of killers. You think our countrys so innocent? Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Asking for people to 'pray' for Arnold Schwarzenegger At the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump couldnt help but to ask for prayers for the ratings on Arnold Schwarzeneggers show to be good. Schwarzenegger took over as host of The Apprentice which buoyed Trumps celebrity status years ago Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Hanging up on Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull Early in his presidency, Trump reportedly hung up the phone on Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull after the foreign leader angered him over refugee plans. Mr Trump later said that it was the worst call he had had so far Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... The 'Muslim ban' Perhaps one of his most controversial policies while acting as president, Trumps travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries has bought him a lot of criticism. The bans were immediately protested, and judges initially blocked their implementation. The Supreme Court later sided with the administrations argument that the ban was developed out of concern for US security Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Praising crowd size while touring Hurricane Harvey damage After Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeastern Texas, Trump paid the area a visit. While his response to the disaster in Houston was generally applauded, the president picked up some flack when he gave a speech outside Houston (he reportedly did not visit disaster zones), and praised the size of the crowds there AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... 'Little Rocket Man' During his first-ever speech to the United Nations General Assembly, Trump tried out a new nickname for North Korea leader Kim Jong-un: Rocket Man. He later tweaked it to be little Rocket Man as the two feuded, and threatened each other with nuclear war. During that speech, he also threatened to totally annihilate North Korea Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Attacking Sadiq Khan following London Bridge terror attack After the attack on the London Bridge, Trump lashed out at London Mayor Sadiq Khan, criticising Khan for saying there was no reason to be alarmed after the attack. Trump was taking the comments out of context, as Khan was simply saying that the police had everything under control Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming presenter Mika Brezinkski was 'bleeding from the face' Never one not to mock his enemies, Trump mocked MSNBCs Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski, saying that she and co-host Joe Scarborough had approached him before his inauguration asking to join him. He noted that she was bleeding badly from a face-lift at the time, and that he said no MSNBC Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming the blame for Charlottesville was on 'both sides' Trump refused to condemn far-right extremists involved in violence at 'the march for the right' protests in Charlottesville, even after the murder of counter protester Heather Heyer AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Retweeting cartoon of CNN being hit by a 'Trump train' Trump retweeted a cartoon showing a Trump-branded train running over a person whose body and head were replaced by a CNN avatar. He later deleted the retweet Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Tweeting about 'slamming' CNN Trump caught some flack when he tweeted a video showing him wrestling down an individual whose head had been replaced by a CNN avatar. Trump has singled CNN out in particular with his chants of fake news Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing head of the FBI, James Comey Trumps firing of former FBI Director James Comey landed him with a federal investigation into Russias meddling in the 2016 election that has caused many a headache for the White House. The White House initially said that the decision was made after consultation from the Justice Department. Then Mr Trump himself said that he had decided to fire him in part because he wanted the Russia investigation Mr Comey was conducting to stop Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Not realising being president would be 'hard' Just three months into his presidency, Trump admitted that being president is harder than he thought it would be. Though Trump insisted on the 2016 campaign trail that doing the job would be easy for him, he admitted in an interview that living in the White House is harder than running a business empire Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Accusing Obama of wiretapping him Trump accused former president Barack Obama of wire tapping him on twitter. The Justice Department later clarified: Obama had not, in fact, done so Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming there had been 3 million 'illegal votes' Trump was never very happy about losing the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by 2.8 million ballots. So, he and White House voter-fraud commissioner Kris Kobach have claimed that anywhere between three and five million people voted illegally during the 2016 election. Conveniently, he says that all of those illegal votes went to Clinton. (There is no evidence to support that level of widespread voter fraud.) Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Leaving Jews out of the Holocaust memorial statement Just days after taking office, Trumps White House issued a statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, but didnt mention jews or even the word jewish in the written statement Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Anger over Inauguration crowd size Trumps inauguration crowd was visibly, and noticeably, smaller than that of his predecessor, Barack Obama. But, he really wanted to have had the largest crowd on record. So, he praised it as the biggest crowd ever. Relatedly, Trump also claimed that it stopped raining in Washington at the moment he was inaugurated. It didnt, the day was very dreary Reuters Matthew Miller the Department of Justice's chief spokesperson under Mr Obama chimed in, calling the claim gross and slanderous. This is an outrageous and disrespectful lie even by Trump standards, added Ben Rhodes, Mr Obamas foreign policy adviser. Mr Rhodes also pointed to Mr Trump's feud with the Khan family, tweeting: Obama never attacked a Gold Star family." Khizr and Ghazala Khan lost their son, a US army officer, to a suicide bomber in Iraq 12 years ago. When the family spoke out against Mr Trump, then a candidate for the presidency, he condemned their vicious attacks and claimed Hillary Clinton had written their remarks. Pete Souza, the White House photographer under Mr Obama, also reponded to the President's recent comments. He posted a photo on Instagram of Mr Obama hugging the parents of an army sergeant who was killed in action. This was the first of 52 Medals of Honor, the nations highest award for military valour, that President Obama bestowed during his two terms, Mr Souza wrote on his popular Instagram page. I also photographed him meeting with hundreds of wounded soldiers, and family members of those killed in action. Mr Trump also faced pushback from reporters at the press conference, who asked him to back up his statement. The President walked back his comments slightly. A lot of Presidents don't; they write letters, he said. I do a combination of both. President Obama I think probably did sometimes, and maybe sometimes he didn't. I don't know. That's what I was told. 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 }} Donald Trump, whose business empire has continued to operate alongside his presidency, has fallen close to 100 places in a prestigious ranking of Americas wealthiest people. The Forbes annual list ranking the 400 richest Americans, says Mr Trump has tumbled 92 places to 248th. Last year, he was ranked at 156th. The magazine said the Presidents total wealth had fallen $600m to a net worth of $3.1bn, largely due to a weakening in the New York City retail and office real estate markets. The magazine said the downgrading of his wealth was also a result of new information it had collected. Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Show all 30 1 /30 Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Threatening to shut down Twitter after being fact-checked After the president tweeted that voting by post would be "substantially fraudulent", Twitter attached a warning label to his tweet and referred readers to a site which explained how the claim was "unsubstantiated". Trump then said Twitter was "stifling free speech" and that he may have to shut it down, something which he would not have the power to do AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Flippantly dismissing a serious allegation of sexual assault When author E Jean Carroll accused Trump of raping her, the president responded: Number one, shes not my type. Number two, it never happened. It never happened, OK?" AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Insulting the Mayor of London as he landed in London Just before touching down at Stansted Airport for his state visit, Trump took time out to @ the London mayor Sadiq Khan on twitter. He said that Khan has done a "terrible job"as mayor and that he is a "stone cold loser" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Taking plenty of "Executive Time" The president's official schedule sets aside the hours from 8 to 11am daily for "Executive Time". Further intermittent periods of "Executive Time" are scheduled throughout any given day, ranging from 15 minutes to 3 hours. His duties in these hours have not been officially disclosed, though Axios reports that he spends them watching TV, reading the newspapers and tweeting Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Shutdown the government for over a month in an effort to secure funding for his wall With Mexico declining to pay for the wall, the president has faced difficulty in raising the required $5bn at home. Due to his demand that the money for the wall be included in the budget, and Congress's refusal, the government partially shut down on 22 December 2018. It remained shut for over a month, the longest period in history Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Joking about the Nazi occupation of France to President Macron In this tweet from 13 November 2018, the president mocks Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of a "true, European army" by invoking the conflict between France and Germany in the world wars Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Railing against the Mueller investigation The president has repeatedly claimed that the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, is a "rigged witch hunt" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting a US intelligence report on Russian meddling in the presence of Vladimir Putin In the press conference that followed his landmark meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, Trump stated that he saw no reason why Russia would have meddled in the 2016 US election. This contradicted a 2017 report by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence that found evidence of Russian interference in favour of Trump Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting his contradiction of a US intelligence report on Russian meddling Following furious backlash in the US, the president claimed that he meant to say that he saw no reason why it would not have been Russia who meddled in the 2016 US election. As to why he would have intended to use such bizarre phrasing, he did not comment Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Colouring in the US flag wrong The president coloured in the US flag wrongly during a visit to a children's hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He added a blue stripe where in tradition, and statute, there have been only white and red stripes AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing a Secretary of State over Twitter The president announced on Twitter that he was appointing Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State, much to the surprise of then Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Quoting a catchphrase from a reality TV show when discussing police brutality While addressing the issue of black athletes not standing for the national anthem in protest of police brutality, the president made reference to his catchphrase from reality TV show "The Apprentice": you're fired! Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Calling African nations "S***hole Countries" Ever one for diplomacy, the president reportedly referred to African nations as "s***hole countries". Asked to confirm this when meeting with Nigeria's President Buhari, Trump stated that there are "some countries that are in very bad shape". Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Defending Russian President Vladimir Putin Trump appeared to equate US foreign actions to those of Russian president Vladimir Putin, saying: There are a lot of killers. You think our countrys so innocent? Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Asking for people to 'pray' for Arnold Schwarzenegger At the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump couldnt help but to ask for prayers for the ratings on Arnold Schwarzeneggers show to be good. Schwarzenegger took over as host of The Apprentice which buoyed Trumps celebrity status years ago Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Hanging up on Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull Early in his presidency, Trump reportedly hung up the phone on Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull after the foreign leader angered him over refugee plans. Mr Trump later said that it was the worst call he had had so far Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... The 'Muslim ban' Perhaps one of his most controversial policies while acting as president, Trumps travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries has bought him a lot of criticism. The bans were immediately protested, and judges initially blocked their implementation. The Supreme Court later sided with the administrations argument that the ban was developed out of concern for US security Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Praising crowd size while touring Hurricane Harvey damage After Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeastern Texas, Trump paid the area a visit. While his response to the disaster in Houston was generally applauded, the president picked up some flack when he gave a speech outside Houston (he reportedly did not visit disaster zones), and praised the size of the crowds there AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... 'Little Rocket Man' During his first-ever speech to the United Nations General Assembly, Trump tried out a new nickname for North Korea leader Kim Jong-un: Rocket Man. He later tweaked it to be little Rocket Man as the two feuded, and threatened each other with nuclear war. During that speech, he also threatened to totally annihilate North Korea Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Attacking Sadiq Khan following London Bridge terror attack After the attack on the London Bridge, Trump lashed out at London Mayor Sadiq Khan, criticising Khan for saying there was no reason to be alarmed after the attack. Trump was taking the comments out of context, as Khan was simply saying that the police had everything under control Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming presenter Mika Brezinkski was 'bleeding from the face' Never one not to mock his enemies, Trump mocked MSNBCs Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski, saying that she and co-host Joe Scarborough had approached him before his inauguration asking to join him. He noted that she was bleeding badly from a face-lift at the time, and that he said no MSNBC Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming the blame for Charlottesville was on 'both sides' Trump refused to condemn far-right extremists involved in violence at 'the march for the right' protests in Charlottesville, even after the murder of counter protester Heather Heyer AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Retweeting cartoon of CNN being hit by a 'Trump train' Trump retweeted a cartoon showing a Trump-branded train running over a person whose body and head were replaced by a CNN avatar. He later deleted the retweet Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Tweeting about 'slamming' CNN Trump caught some flack when he tweeted a video showing him wrestling down an individual whose head had been replaced by a CNN avatar. Trump has singled CNN out in particular with his chants of fake news Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing head of the FBI, James Comey Trumps firing of former FBI Director James Comey landed him with a federal investigation into Russias meddling in the 2016 election that has caused many a headache for the White House. The White House initially said that the decision was made after consultation from the Justice Department. Then Mr Trump himself said that he had decided to fire him in part because he wanted the Russia investigation Mr Comey was conducting to stop Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Not realising being president would be 'hard' Just three months into his presidency, Trump admitted that being president is harder than he thought it would be. Though Trump insisted on the 2016 campaign trail that doing the job would be easy for him, he admitted in an interview that living in the White House is harder than running a business empire Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Accusing Obama of wiretapping him Trump accused former president Barack Obama of wire tapping him on twitter. The Justice Department later clarified: Obama had not, in fact, done so Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming there had been 3 million 'illegal votes' Trump was never very happy about losing the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by 2.8 million ballots. So, he and White House voter-fraud commissioner Kris Kobach have claimed that anywhere between three and five million people voted illegally during the 2016 election. Conveniently, he says that all of those illegal votes went to Clinton. (There is no evidence to support that level of widespread voter fraud.) Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Leaving Jews out of the Holocaust memorial statement Just days after taking office, Trumps White House issued a statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, but didnt mention jews or even the word jewish in the written statement Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Anger over Inauguration crowd size Trumps inauguration crowd was visibly, and noticeably, smaller than that of his predecessor, Barack Obama. But, he really wanted to have had the largest crowd on record. So, he praised it as the biggest crowd ever. Relatedly, Trump also claimed that it stopped raining in Washington at the moment he was inaugurated. It didnt, the day was very dreary Reuters It has long been unclear precisely how wealthy Mr Trump really is. When he announced in the summer of 2015 that he was running for the White House, he boasted about how rich he was and held up a financial statement detailing what he said were $9.2bn in assets and $8.7bn in net worth. Im not doing that to brag, he said. Because you know what? I dont have to brag. Yet analysts were quick to question Mr Trumps self-assessment. An filing with the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) subsequently revealed he was probably worth no more than half of what he claimed. Back then, Forbes reckoned he had total wealth of $4bn. On Tuesday, Luisa Kroll, Forbes magazine senior wealth editor told CNBC that Mr Trump had not sought to boost his ranking on the list, as she said he had in previous years. John McCain appears to rebuke Trump by slamming "half-baked nationalism" Well see if he tweets today, she said. I know he cares a lot. The President, whose wealth has been tracked by Forbes since 1982, shares his spot on the list with the 27-year-old Evan Spiegel, co-founder and CEO of the parent of Snapchat, and the youngest person included. At the top of the list, Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates tops for the 24th consecutive year, with a net worth of $89n this year. Amazons Jeff Bezos, worth $81.5bn, retains the No. 2 spot for the second consecutive year, the magazine said. Trump: We're saying 'Merry Christmas' again Meanwhile, iconic investor Warren Buffett, who before 2016 held the second spot for 15 consecutive years, has been listed at third place for the second year in a row. The magazine said that the billionaires on its list have a combined total net worth of $2.7 trillion, up from $2.4 trillion in 2016. The minimum net worth now required to be counted among the very richest Americans hit a record high of $2bn, up from $1.7bn in 2015 and 2016. There were 169 billionaires who did not make the cut. Americas richest are richer than ever. The minimum net worth to make the Forbes list of 400 wealthiest Americans is now a record $2bn, said Luisa Kroll and Kerry Dolan of Forbes. But even at these new heights, entrepreneurs are breaking into the ranks for the first time as they mint fortunes in everything from Netflix and telecom to vodka and fishing. One of the worst of the 2016 Democratic freshmen-- worst in terms of his GOP-aligned voting record-- is Charlie Crist, former Republican, former governor of Florida, current terrible congressman from St Petersburg. He won last year by beating incumbent David Jolly 184,693 (51,9%) to 171,149 (48.1%). Each raised and spent around $2,000,000 on their campaigns, although the DCCC and their aligned House Majority PAC dumped another $2.5 million into the race, while there was no counter-balance from the NRCC for Jolly. Meanwhile, Crist immediately joined the Blue Dogs and New Dems, the Republican wing of the Democratic Party, and quickly earned an overall "F" from ProgressivePunch for his decidedly right-of-center voting record. Charlie Crist now has the worst vote score of any Democratic freshman-- 43.10-- and the only Democrats with worse scores-- in order of bad to worse-- are Collin Peterson (Blue Dog-MN), Henry Cuellar (Blue Dog-TX) and Kyrsten Sinema (Blue Dog-AZ), 3 Democrats who Ryan can always depend on to support the Republican agenda in nearly everything. I don't think Jolly is seriously considering a rematch in FL-13. Crist, who spends virtually all his time sucking up to corporate donors and lobbyists, has already raised $1,625,562.44 for 2018. Meanwhile, Jolly has become a regular MSNBC contributor. Last night be was on Lawrence O'Donnell's show, the highlight of which was when he admitted that the country would be better off if the Democrats were to win back the House in 2018. "The Republican Party," he said, "never really recovered and found their footing from the emergence of the Tea Party, from the emergence of the likes of Sarah Palin, that has now manifested in the likes of Steve Bannon and Donald Trump. What is different now is that we have a president whos known to be unstable. We have a president whos known to be risky when it comes to matters of national security... Ill be honest with you: Personally, as a Republican, in the past few weeks Ive wondered, 'Is the Republic safer if Democrats take over the House in 2018?'" It wouldn't surprise me if Jolly winds up in Kenosha at some point during 2018, campaigning for Randy Bryce! Nor is Jolly the only one with thoughts like that. Early this morning, CNN released a poll by SSR . When asked, "If the elections for Congress were being held today, which party's candidate would you vote for in your Congressional district," 54% of registered voters say Democrats and just 38% say Republicans. 98% of Democrats favor Democrats while only 88% of Republicans say they prefer a Republican. More Independents also say they will vote for a Democrat. It looks to me that at this point the only thing that could hold back the Democratic wave is the venal and well-practiced incompetence of the DCCC, an organization that embodies the concept of habitual failure. And they're up to their losing tricks again-- picking conservative GOP-lite candidates in race after race across the country, flying in the race of the progressive energy that has swept the nation. Yesterday, I spoke with Dr. Matt Heinz, a progressive running against centrist Republican Martha McSally in Arizona's ultimate swing district, AZ-02 (Tucson). After Pelosi and DCCC chairman Ben Ray Lujan decided ultra conservative New Dem Ann Kirkpatrick (from northern Arizona) should be the candidate against McSally, many in the Tucson area are left wondering if the Democratic Party is worth supporting at all. Heinz: "Only Southern Arizonans can choose who represents them, and Ann Kirkpatrick's record against DACA kids, against clean energy, and in favor of the NRA, assault weapons and high-capacity magazines will prove problematic. Too much hangs in the balance in this election." 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 }} Californias governor has vetoed a Donald Trump-inspired bill that would have forced presidential contenders to release their tax returns. Breaking with decades of tradition, Mr Trump refused to release a full accounting of his finances despite running a global business empire that ethics experts say is rife with potential conflicts of interest. Concerns about entanglements between Mr Trumps business and his official duties have prompted lawsuits. In California, Democrats sought to prevent a repeat situation by passing a bill that would have required presidential contenders to release their tax returns in order to appear on presidential primary ballots. The measure was embraced by elected politicians and by the states top elections official, Secretary of State Alex Padilla. But Gov Jerry Brown vetoed the measure, warning that it might be unconstitutional - a conclusion also drawn by an official state analysis - and worrying about spurring an ever escalating set of differing state requirements for presidential candidates. While I recognise the political attractiveness - even the merits - of getting President Trumps tax returns, I worry about the political perils of individual states seeking to regulate presidential elections in this matter, Mr Brown wrote in a veto message. Today we require tax returns, Mr Brown added, but what would be next? Five years of health records? A certified birth certificate? High school report cards? President Donald Trump life in pictures Show all 16 1 /16 President Donald Trump life in pictures President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump poses in a rocking chair once used by President John F. Kennedy at his New York City residence Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump with his new bride Marla Maples after their wedding at the Plaza hotel in New York Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Celina Midelfart watch the match between Conchita Martinez and Amanda Coetzer during U.S. Open. She was the date whom Donald Trump was with when he met his current wife Melania at a party in 1996 Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas serving as the grand marshal for the Daytona 500, speaks to Donald Trump and Melania Knauss on the starting grid at the Daytona International Speedwa Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump talks with his former wife Ivana Trump during the men's final at the U.S. Open Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and his friend Melania Knauss pose for photographers as they arrive at the New York premiere of Star Wars Episode : 'The Phantom Menace,' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire real estate developer Donald Trump talks with host Larry King. Trump told King that he was moving toward a possible bid for the United States presidency with the formation of a presidential exploratory committee Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump answers questions as Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura looks on in Brooklyn Park. Trump said on Friday he 'very well might' make a run for president under the Reform Party banner but had not made a final decision Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump makes a face at a friend as he sits next to Panamanian President Mireya Moscoso before the start of the 2003 Miss Universe pageant in Panama City Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Entrepreneur Donald Trump is greeted by a Marilyn Monroe character look-a-alike, as he arrives at Universal Studios Hollywood to attend the an open casting call for his NBC television network reality series 'The Apprentice.' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Simon Cowell present an Emmy during the 56th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Megan Mullally perform at the 57th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump, poses with his children, son Donald Trump, Jr., and daughters Tiffany and Ivanka Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump told Miss USA 2006 Tara Conner on Tuesday she would be given a second chance after reported misbehavior Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump holds a replica of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as his wife Melania holds their son Barron in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. property mogul Donald Trump stands next to a bagpiper during a media event on the sand dunes of the Menie estate, the site for Trump's proposed golf resort, near Aberdeen, north east Scotland Reuters Other states have unsuccessfully pursued similar measures. In New Jersey, Governor Chris Christie - a key campaign surrogate for Mr Trump - vetoed a tax returns bill. Veto notwithstanding, Mr Brown is no ally of Mr Trump. The Democratic governor has aggressively pursued measures to limit climate change while blasting Mr Trump and his administration for downplaying the risks, and he recently signed a so-called sanctuary state bill that sharply limits how much California jails and police officers can cooperate with federal immigration authorities. 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 }} An American diplomat has labelled his country's treatment of the Kurds in Iraq a "cataclysmic betrayal" after Iraqi troops pushed Kurdish forces out of the disputed oil-rich city of Kirkuk. The Pentagon has declined to blame the Iraqi government for the violence and is instead urging the central government in Baghdad and the Kurdish authorities to negotiate their differences. Two weeks after fighting together against the Isis, Iraqi forces pushed their Kurdish allies out of the disputed city on Monday, seizing oil fields and other facilities amid soaring tensions over last month's Kurdish vote for independence. "I just can't endure this anymore," the unnamed American diplomat told CNN national security analyst Michael Weiss. "I visited countless GI's at Walter Reed and Arlington. I looked into their 18-year-old wives' faces and infant kids' eyes. I buried Iraqis. All so Iran could conquer the region." Iraqi forces were supported - as they always are now in major operations - by the Popular Mobilisation Forces, a predominantly Shia militia coalition the Kurds see as an instrument of Iranian policy. The move by the Iraqi military and its allied militias so soon after neutralising Isis in northern Iraq hinted the country could once again turn on itself after disposing of a common enemy. "Now this cataclysmic betrayal of the Kurds, who are far from perfect, but at least they loved America and never bombed our embassies," the diplomat continued. "I'm done with the Middle East." Briton fighting for Kurds confirmed as Luke Rutter from Birkenhead The US has armed, trained and provided vital air support to both the Kurds and the Iraqi army in their fight against Isis. In their bid to keep Kirkuk and its oil-rich countryside, Kurdish leaders accused the Baghdad government of being dominated by Tehran. Their fears were further affirmed after Iran came out forcefully against the Kurdish region's nonbinding referendum for independence. 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 The Trump administration also said it did not recognise the independence referendum, with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson saying in a statement that "the vote and the results lack legitimacy." He went on to say the US will "continue to support a united, federal, democratic and prosperous Iraq." Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The US has dispatched a military plane packed with medical and humanitarian supplies to Somalia, after the top American diplomat in the country declared the bomb attack that killed 300 people met the criteria to warrant immediate US government assistance. With a speed that some will say contrasted with way the Trump administration reacted when a powerful hurricane tore into Puerto Rico, the plane landed in Mogadishu, 48 hours after the massive truck bomb went off, also injuring 400 people. It had flown in from Djibouti. Scores of people remain missing after the attack and officials said the death toll could still rise, according to the Associated Press. The US military has dispatched humanitarian aid from its regional hub in Djibouti (AP) The news agency said in the aftermath of the of blast, which the Somali government has blamed on the al-Shabab extremist group, funerals have continued and dozens of critically injured people have been airlifted to Turkey for treatment. For the US, the fight against Islamic extremists based in the Horn of Africa has becoming increasingly important. The US military has stepped up the number of drone strikes against al-Shabab, which is also fighting the Somali military and 22,000 African Union forces in the country. Deadly suicide bombing strikes Somalia's capital To the north, Djibouti has become host for military bases operated by the US and France, and China has a mounting number of infrastructure projects based there. Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Show all 18 1 /18 Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab looks after one of her nephews Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab's sister Habiba, 29, sits with her children beside their shelter at the camp Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab helps her mother and sister build a new shelter Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Women wait to fill their jerrycans at the camp Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab and her sister Habiba carry a jerrycan filled with water to their shelter Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab reads an English book in her shelter Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab looks in the mirror as she brushes her teeth using a chewing stick Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab cleans her feet before going into school Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab at the entrance of her classroom near the camp Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought English teacher Abdiweli Mohammed Hersi in the classroom Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab applies her make-up before heading to school Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab writes in class Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab attends a class Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab's sister feeds her baby in the camp Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Abdir observes Zeinab washing dishes as her nephews play REUTERS Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Abdir carries a jerrycan while her daughter Zeinab washes dishes Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought Zeinab outside her shelter in the camp Reuters Fighting for Freedom in the Somalian drought The Hussein family at the camp for internally displaced people in Dolow For the US, Djibouti is a vital location in a restive region; it is the location of the largest American permanent military base in Africa, Camp Lemonnier, which is home to more than 4,000 personnel. Most of them are part of the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa. Al-Shabab has fought in Somalia for more than a decade and has frequently targeted vulnerable locations of the capital, Mogadishu. Earlier this year, it vowed to step up attacks after both the Trump administration and Somalia's recently elected Somali-American president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, announced new military efforts against the group. In recent weeks, the Trump administration has been battling criticism over the way it responded to the powerful Hurricane Maria that struck Puerto Rico last month. While the Donald Trump has claimed the government has responded speedily and that critics are politically motivated, around 90 per cent of the island is still without electricity. Hundreds of thousands of the islands population of 3.5 million are struggling to access clean drinking water, food and medical supplies. 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 }} At least 288 Rohingya villages in Burmas Rakhine state have been partially or totally destroyed since violence in the area worsened at the end of August, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW). Analysis of satellite images suggests tens of thousands of homes have been razed amid violent clashes that have been blamed mostly on the Burmese army. Many of the buildings were destroyed after Burmese officials claimed they were no longer carrying out clearance operations, the charity said. Images also suggested that villages belonging to the countrys Rohingya Muslims were destroyed while nearby areas occupied by non-Muslims were left largely untouched. In villages of mixed ethnicity, Rohingya homes were burned to the ground while others were left intact, it added. Recommended EU to cut ties with Burma over ethnic cleansing of Rohingya Muslims Burmese officials have accused the Rohingya of setting fire to their own villages but international observers say there is overwhelming evidence that the atrocities were committed by the countrys military forces. Burmas leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, has claimed operations by security forces ended on 5 September but HRW said at least 66 villages have been destroyed since then. Ms Suu Kyi has faced widespread condemnation from the international community over her failure to speak out about violence against the Rohingya. The latest round of violence erupted on 25 August, when Rohingya militants attacked more than 20 police outposts in Rakhine. The military response of Burmese state forces has forced almost 600,000 Rohingya to flee the country, mostly into neighbouring Bangladesh, and reportedly left thousands dead. Phil Robertson, HRWs deputy Asia director, said: These latest satellite images show why over half a million Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in just four weeks. The Burmese military destroyed hundreds of Rohingya villages while committing killings, rapes, and other crimes against humanity that forced Rohingya to flee for their lives. The shocking images of destruction in Burma and burgeoning refugee camps in Bangladesh are two sides of the same coin of human misery being inflicted on the Rohingya. Concerned governments need to urgently press for an end to abuses against the Rohingya and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches everyone in need. 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 According to HRW, the worst destruction was in Rakhines Maungdaw township, where most of the violence took place. There, around 62 per cent of all villages were either partially or totally destroyed in just one month between 25 August and 25 September a figure that rises to 90 per cent in the southern part of the area. In the majority of villages, between 90 and 100 per cent of buildings were destroyed. HRW demanded the UN Security Council impose an arms embargo on Burma and implement individual sanctions on the military leaders that are believed to be responsible for the abuses. It comes as the UN said up to 15,000 Rohingya refugees had entered Bangladesh via one border crossing point since Sunday many of them having walked for a week to flee Rakhine after their homes were set on fire. UN officials said thousands of refugees are living in rice fields near the border while they await permission to enter Bangladesh. 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 }} Millions of low-paid domestic workers employed in India under zero-hours contracts are to be paid a minimum wage, under plans set out by the country's labour ministry. The draft proposal guarantees domestic workers access to social security benefits, including maternity leave, pensions and health insurance, and offers protection from abuse. Domestic workers, around 80 per cent of whom are women, are employed by wealthier Indians to perform household chores, with low pay and little or no job security. Recommended Sex with child brides ruled as rape by India Supreme Court Many come from poor, rural parts of the country, are illiterate and innumerate, and live apart from their families - leaving them particularly vulnerable to abuse. Announcing the plan, Indias labour ministry said it would explicitly and effectively expand the scope of applicable legislations, policies and schemes to grant domestic workers rights that are enshrined in laws. Ministry of labour and employment is considering to formulate a national policy for domestic workers under which part-time, full-time and live-in workers, employers, private placement agencies will be clearly defined, it added. The policy aims to promote right to fair terms of employment relating to minimum wages, protection from abuse/harassment and violence, access to social security benefits such as health insurance, maternity benefits and old age pensions. But critics say the wording of the proposal is too vague, and it fails to set out a timeline or details on pay or benefits. Campaigners have long called for a minimum monthly salary of around 9,000 rupees (105) as well as sick pay and holiday. Recommended India declares freedom of sexual orientation a fundamental right Rights group Anti-Slavery International said more than four million workers are employed in India in the unregulated domestic sector, with wages typically two thirds lower than other industries. The line between domestic work and slavery is also often blurred, with many employed in private homes, leaving them open to poor working conditions, exploitation and abuse. One woman, Seema, said she was abused by her employers for two years before seeking help from the National Domestic Workers' Movement, Anti-Slavery Internationals partners in India. She said: I wasnt paid for the work that I did over two years, except for the absolute minimum that I needed to survive. My employers would shout at me, insult me and beat me. Geeta Menon, of non-profit Stree Jagruti Samiti, which focuses on domestic workers' rights, said there was little clarity on how the objectives would be met. "Neither the government nor the employers are convinced that these workers should have rights and benefits; in fact, they do not even recognise them as workers," she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. "The policy itself is weak, there is no onus on employers, and we see little chance of it being effectively implemented. Unless our attitudes towards domestic workers changes, their situation will not improve. 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 }} North Korea could collapse within a year due to US sanctions, a defector and former Pyongyang official has said. Ri Jong-ho, who ran an international network of North Korean businesses which funnelled money into the hermit kingdom, said the country desperately wants relations with the US. The sanctions that the White House has imposed on North Korea are of a historic level, Mr Ri told an Asia Society event in New York. Never before has the country faced such tough sanctions. I dont know if North Korea will survive a year with these sanctions. People will die, he said. Mr Ri believes North Koreas increasing provocations and Kim Jong-uns rhetoric are an attempt to force the US into a diplomatic dialogue which does not involve South Korea. He added: Right now the leadership of North Korea have deployed missiles aimed at the US and are doing these provocations, but they desperately want relations with the US. Britain are 'preparing for war with North Korea' The former official also said North Korea and China were currently at the very worst point of their relationship following Mr Kims purge of officials close to Beijing and Chinese President Xis decision to visit Seoul before Pyongyang on his first trip to the Korean peninsula in 2014. Mr Kim branded Mr Xi a son of a bitch during a subsequent meeting of high ranking officials, according to Mr Ri. 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 Mr Ri served as chief of the Korea Daehung Trading Corporation, which is managed by a clandestine organisation under direct control of the Kim family, according to the South China Morning Post. He told The Washington Post he was in charge of North Korean tactics to circumvent UN sanctions, before defecting with his family in 2014. 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 expert has disputed claims that Allah's name was embroidered into ancient Viking burial clothes - a discovery hailed as "staggering" when Swedish researchers announced their findings last week. After reexamining the cloth, archaeologist Annika Larsson of Uppsala University claimed the silk patterns which were originally thought to be ordinary Viking Age decoration, showed a geometric Kufic script. The patterns were found on woven bands as well as items of clothing in two separate grave sites, prompting the suggestion that Viking funeral customs had been influenced by Islam. Media around the world including The Independent reported on the finding, but now a leading expert in mediaeval Islamic art and archaeology has disputed the claim and said the inscription contains "no Arabic at all." Stephennie Mulder, a professor from the University of Texas in Austin, said the error stems from a "serious problem of dating". She claims Kufic script did not occur until 500 years after the Viking age. "Its a style called square Kufic, and its common in Iran, C. Asia on architecture after 15th century," she wrote on Twitter. She said even if Kufic script did exist, the inscription embroidered into the textile still does not mean anything in Arabic. "Lets assume there are 10th century Central Asian textiles with square Kufic. Even so, it turns out Larssons drawing doesnt say Allah'," she wrote. "Instead the drawing says lllah, which basically makes no sense in Arabic. 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 "Arabic phrases like al-hamdulillah incorporate 'l-lah' but dont stand alone, and its spelled with two uprights, not three." Finally, Prof Mulder claims the evidence of Islamic influence presented by Ms Larsson is based on "conjecture" and "supposition" rather than "proof". "The tablet-woven textile in the widely-dispersed press photograph shows only design of three uprights connected by a horizontal band," she wrote. "But reconstruction drawing by textile archaeologist Annika Larsson shows extensions on either side that include a ha. "These extensions practically double width of band. Not mentioned in press accounts: Larssons extensions are entirely conjectural." Responding to the dispute, Ms Larsson told The Independent: "These finds are with no doubt from the Viking Age. They are found in several of the Birka graves and Viking Age boatgraves north of Gamla Uppsala. The geometrical Kufi is also to be found in similar textile ribbons from Spain. "Even if the characters should be interpereted as Illah it is still Kufic, and as I have understood from the arabic experts it still refers to 'Allah'." 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 final result of Austrias election is still too close to call with counting continuing and a tight battle for second place between the far-right and centre-left. Interior ministry data as of lunchtime on Tuesday shows the centre-left SPO pulling ahead with 26.9 per cent, with the far-right FPO just behind on 26 per cent. The conservative OVP, led by 31-year old Sebastian Kurz, is guaranteed first place, with currently 31.5 per cent of the vote; the final result is expected on Thursday. Recommended Austria elects youngest leader in lurch to the right Whether the FPO or SPO comes second will likely affect the final composition of the government; if the SPO ends up ahead, it has suggested it would be open a deal with the FPO as a junior coalition partner dropping a four-decade ban on dealing with the far-right. This would see the conservative OVP excluded from government despite topping the poll. The SPO has however ruled out a coalition with the FPO if the SPO has to be the junior partner, meaning the FPO would likely join up with the OVP and make Mr Kurz chancellor. We are not yet in the phase of coalition talks, Mr Kurz said on Monday, explaining that he would wait until the final result became known on Thursday. Speaking in Brussels a spokesperson for the European Commission called on Mr Kurz to negotiate a stable, pro-European government but he would not be drawn on whether this meant the FPO should specifically be excluded. 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 A deal between the SPO and OVP however seems unlikely, as a previous government formed between the two parties collapsed amid acrimony in the spring. The last time the FPO entered government in the year 2000, other EU states briefly imposed diplomatic sanctions on Austria with the aim of forcing the extremists from government. The sanctions were short-lived, however, after warnings that they could be counter-productive and stoke up nationalist sentiment in the country. 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 son of Maltas well-known investigative journalist, who worked on the Panama Papers expose, said she was assassinated because of her work exposing corruption. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed in a car bomb on Monday soon after leaving her home in Mosta, on the north side of the island. The explosion occurred near the village of Bidnija, sending the car off the road and into a nearby field. Her son, Matthew Caruana Galizia, said she was assassinated because she stood between the rule of law and those who sought to violate it, like many strong journalists. Recommended Top investigative reporter killed by car bomb in Malta But she was also targeted because she was the only person doing so, he said. This is what happens when the institutions of the state are incapacitated the last person left standing is often a journalist. Which makes her the first person left dead. Mr Caruana Galizia, who was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal, wrote a harrowing account of discovering his mothers burning car and trying to help her. I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single, fire extinguisher to use it, he wrote. The police officers stared at him and said: Im sorry, there is nothing we can do, he wrote. I looked down and there were my mothers body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless. Who is in the car? they asked me. My mother is in the car. She is dead. She is dead because of your incompetence. Matthew Caruana Galizia, middle, walks with policemen past the wreckage of a car bomb that killed Daphne Caruana Galizia close to her home in Bidnija, Malta (AFP) Around 3,000 people took to the streets of Sliema, near the capital of Valletta, to hold a silent candlelit vigil for Ms Caruana Galizia on Monday night. The journalist, who had worked to expose Maltas links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers, had written a twice-weekly column for The Malta Independent since 1996 and wrote a blog, Running Commentary. She had filed a police report two weeks ago saying she had been receiving threats, authorities told news outlets on Monday. Police and forensic experts inspect the wreckage of a car bomb believed to have killed journalist and blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia close to her home in Bidnija, Malta (Getty) (Getty Images) Both the Maltese Prime Minister, Joseph Muscat, and the opposition leader, Adrian Delia, condemned her killing, calling it a political murder. The Prime Minister said: Everyone knows Ms Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way. Mr Delia called for an independent investigation into her death and said an investigation led by the commissioner of police, the army chief or the duty magistrate all of whom were criticised by the journalist would not be accepted. He added that killing Ms Caruana Galizia was an attack on democracy and freedom of expression. Reporter who covered Malta 'Panama Papers' link killed Daphne played a vitally important role in unearthing serious allegations of money laundering and corruption in Malta, including those involving senior figures in the Maltese government, said Sven Giegold, a Greens member in the European Parliament. Ms Caruana Galizia had been sued more than once for libel over allegations made in her blog. Mr Muscat was in the process of suing her, while Mr Delia had sued over stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London. Economy Minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote that he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. She had also alleged that the Prime Ministers wife, Michelle, along with the nations energy minister and the governments chief of staff had received money from Azerbaijan in offshore holdings in Panama. Mr Muscat and his wife denied the claims. The European Commission condemned the killing, calling for those responsible to be brought to justice. We are horrified by the fact that the well-known and respected journalist .. lost her life yesterday in what was a seemingly targeted attack, Commission spokesman Margaritis Schinas told reporters. The right of a journalist to investigate, ask uncomfortable questions and report effectively is at the heart of our values and needs to be guaranteed at all times. We trust now that justice will be brought even if this will not be enough to right this wrong, he added. 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 }} Few Russian addresses have received as much attention as 55 Savushkina Street. The grey, four-storey office block in St Petersburg's northwestern suburbs seems almost undeserving of the interest. But the souls inside, busy with pro-Kremlin internet manipulation since 2011, have ensured their building will stay in the headlines for some time to come. An investigation has revealed more intimate details about the office, known colloquially as the troll farm. The report, published on Tuesday by the business portal RBC, suggests that the organisation played a role in the US election campaign and its aftermath, organising as many as 40 US rallies and protests. The report identifies 120 different groups and social media accounts used by trolls over 2016-2017. The farm, it suggests, concentrated on divisive social issues for the US, particularly civil rights. Recommended Facebook COO says Congress should release Russia election ads The report describes a rally held in Charlotte on 22 October 2016, ostensibly against police violence. The event was held in the name of BlackMatterUS, and it seems probable many of the activists who took part did not understand the rally was unconnected with Black Lives Matter. Or, indeed, that the entire operation was being directed from St Petersburg. Facebook advertising campaigns also focused on divisive messages, the report says. The US tech giant has already confirmed 55 Savushkina Street was responsible for buying $100,000 (75,000) worth of pre-election posts, and this report does not add to those numbers. It reveals details about the organisations relatively modest budget. Over two years, the troll farm spent $2.2m (1.7m), the vast majority of which went on wages. For Russias second city, the pay was reasonable but not excessive. Wages started at 55,000 rubles (725) per month for a new hire, rising to 120,000 rubles (1600) for line managers. In total, 250 people were employed, with 90 dedicated trolls working on the US election campaign at its peak. Close scrutiny made the trolling organisation change its methods. Following publication of a long investigation in The New York Times in June 2015, Facebook blocked its accounts. But the farm opened new channels and reverted to more sophisticated anonymous protocols. The authors of the report say 55 Savushkina St kept about a million subscribers on various channels even after the main Facebook accounts were closed. Theyre learning, but only by their mistakes, Andrey Zakharov, one of the authors of the report, told The Independent. Their US operations, for example, required total anonymity, but they still fumbled by attaching Russian mobile numbers to their Twitter accounts. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov has distanced the Kremlin from allegations of interference in the US elections. We dont know who placed the Facebook ads, how they were placed, he told journalists last month. The Russian side is not involved in this. The report does not contain any smoking gun that might link the farm to the Trump campaign. Indeed, its authors suggest that media coverage of the trolls of 55 Savushkina St may be somewhat incommensurate with their real influence. Interest in Russias troll farm had arguably reached "unhealthy" levels, Mr Zakharov told The Independent. You hear very little about the Macedonian bloggers that pumped out fake news in support of Trump, yet their audience was phenomenal, he said. If the Russian trolls are responsible for Trump, then youd have to say these guys are too. 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 }} Taliban suicide car bombers and gunmen attacked a provincial Afghan police headquarters on Tuesday, killing at least 61 people, including the police chief, and wounding 160, in the deadliest of a series of attacks across the country, officials and militants said. The attack targeted a police training centre attached to the headquarters in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province, and the death toll was expected to rise. At least five attackers were also killed, the Interior Ministry said in a statement. Three officials told Reuters that the provincial police chief was among the dead. Both civilians and security forces were among the casualties, deputy public health director Hedayatullah Hameedi said. The Taliban, seeking to re-impose strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster by US-led forces, claimed responsibility. The militant group also attacked a district centre in neighbouring Ghazni province on Tuesday, an offensive that included detonating armoured Humvee vehicles packed with explosives near the provincial governor's office. 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 Provincial officials said at least 15 government security forces were killed and 12 wounded in the Ghazni attacks, with 13 civilians killed and seven wounded. The Taliban said they had killed 31 security forces and wounded 21 in those clashes. 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 }} A Taliban suicide car bomber and gunmen attacked a provincial Afghan police headquarters on Tuesday, killing at least 12 people and wounding 60, officials and militants said. The attack targeted a police training centre attached to the headquarters in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province, officials said. At least two attackers were also killed, the Interior Ministry said in a statement. Three officials told Reuters that the provincial police chief was among the dead, but the ministry said it could only confirm that he had been wounded. Both civilians and security forces were among the casualties, deputy public health director Hedayatullah Hameedi 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 "At the moment the area is sealed by the Crisis Response Unit and efforts are ongoing to eliminate the terrorists," the ministry statement said. The Taliban, seeking to reimpose strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster by US-led forces, claimed responsibility for the attack. 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 }} Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing to pass a law that would make prime ministers immune from certain criminal investigations during their terms. Mr Netanyahu and his family are being investigated by police for fraud and corruption. As reported by Haaretz, the Ministerial Committee for Legislation will debate the immunity bill this weekend, after which it will become clearer as to whether the bill will become law. Although previous similar bills have been voted down under his predecessors, Mr Netanyahus senior ministers in his Likud party agree with the bill, including his justice minister, Ayelet Shaked. It was first proposed last year by his minister of parliament, David Amsalem. The debate on the bill, which is still unclear in terms of its wording and the proposed scope of curtailing police investigation, comes just two months after the Prime Ministers former chief of staff, Ari Harow, turned states witness to avoid jail time after he was himself accused of fraud. It also comes amid heightened tensions and allegations surrounding Mr Netanyahu. Israeli minister attempts selfie with Trump to Netanyahu's dismay One case, named File 1000, accuses the leader and his family of improperly accepting expensive gifts from rich donors, including cigars and champagne from the Israeli Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan. File 2000 regards whether Mr Netanyahu tried to elicit positive media coverage from one of the countrys largest newspapers and in return for damaging a competing publication. His wife, Sara, was accused of fraud last month after she allegedly misused $100,000 of public money. 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 Netanyahu is not a suspect in Case 3000, which involves charges of corruption against several of his associates in the sale of German submarines to Israel, but he will provide testimony as a witness. The leader has denied any wrongdoing. He has asked the attorney general to investigate the alleged leaks to the media. Even if the new immunity bill was passed, it would not affect sitting prime ministers, although Haaretz reported that Mr Netanyahu could circumvent this rule by calling for new elections. It would also not protect prime ministers from investigations related to national security, sex crimes, violence or drugs, as reported by Times of Israel. Former Prime Minister Ehud Olert called for a similar immunity bill which was voted down. He was found guilty of fraud and bribery after he left office, and served 16 months of a 27-month sentence. 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 }} Three weeks after Iraq's Kurdish region held a referendum on independence, Iraqi forces entered the disputed city of Kirkuk, forcing Kurdish fighters to withdraw. Here's what you need to know: Why? Kirkuk has found itself at the heart of a long-running dispute between Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region and its central government that reached fever pitch after Kurdish authorities staged a non-binding independence vote in late September. The city sits on the edge of an expansive oil field that can be tapped for about a half million barrels per day. And while Iraq's oil revenues are supposed to be shared, disputes among the provinces have often held up transfers, leading parties to find leverage in holding the fields. Recommended Iraq takes Kirkuk from Kurds in move that destabilises region further When Iraq's armed forces crumbled in the face of an advance by Isis in 2014, Kurdish forces moved into Kirkuk and secured the city and its surrounding oil wells. The city falls 32 kilometres (20 miles) outside the Kurds' autonomous region. Baghdad insisted the city and its province be returned, but matters came to a head when the Kurdish authorities expanded their referendum to include Kirkuk. To Baghdad, it looked like a provocation that underscored what it sees as unchecked Kurdish expansionism. The city of more than 1 million is home to a mix of Arabs, Kurds and Turkmen, as well as Christians and Sunni and Shiite Muslims. How did it happen? Swiftly. Iraq's army, its anti-terrorism forces and the federal police began their operations before dawn on Monday. By late afternoon, they were in control of several oil and gas facilities, the airport, and a military base. Kurdish officials accused the Iraqi army of carrying out a major, multi-prong attack, and reported heavy clashes on the city's outskirts, but a spokesman for Iraq's state-backed militias said they encountered little resistance. The vastly outmatched Kurdish fighters withdrew from the city en masse, and journalists were left to wander into abandoned barracks and administrative buildings. Local police forces remained in the city at the invitation of Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi who called on civil servants to stay and serve their constituents. He has said he wants to share administration of the city with the Kurdish authorities and called on Kurdish forces, known as the Peshmerga, to serve under the umbrella of Iraq's unified military command. We have only acted to fulfil our constitutional duty and extend the federal authority and impose security and protect the national wealth in this city, said Abadi. Abadi, in a bid to allay concerns of sectarian strife, promised the country's predominantly Shiite Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) would not enter Kirkuk, but Associated Press reporters saw Turkmen militiamen taking up posts in the western part of the city. The Iranian-sponsored militias are viewed with deep suspicion by Iraq's Kurds, who see them as a policy implement of Tehran that threatens demographic change. Thousands of revellers waving the Iraqi Turkmen and Iraqi national flags were celebrating the transfer of power in downtown Kirkuk by nightfall, but thousands more were fleeing the city with their belongings to the neighbouring Kurdish region, fearful of national or militia rule. Friction between US allies? The dispute over Kirkuk pits two close US allies in the war against the Isis against each other. The US has armed, trained and provided vital air support to both sides in their shared struggle and called the frictions a distraction against the most important fight. But for parts of Monday, Iraqi and Kurdish forces turned their weapons against each other. The Kurdistan Region Security Council said early Monday that the Peshmerga destroyed at least five US-supplied Humvees being used by Iraq's state-sanctioned militias. It's the timing of the dispute that underscores how fragile Iraq is now. It was only three months ago that the Peshmerga, federal forces, and the PMF were manoeuvring alongside each other to recapture Mosul, Iraq's second largest city, from Isis, and two weeks ago that they expelled them from Hawija, their last bastion in northern Iraq. With IS now defeated there, the danger for Iraq will now likely come from its own divisions. What's next? It will take time for Iraq and its Kurdish region to restore amicable relations after the strains of the past three weeks. Baghdad wants the Kurds to disavow the overwhelmingly in-favour referendum result. This has been refused by Irbil, the Kurdish capital. Talks between the two sides are now likely to focus on easing sanctions against the Kurdish region, including those on the banking sector and against international flights. There is considerable distrust between Baghdad and Irbil dating back to Saddam Hussein's wars against the Kurdish region and forced Arabisation of some of its cities. 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 But the two sides also rely on each other, especially in fragile economic times. The Kurdish region is responsible for up to a quarter of Iraq's oil production, while Baghdad controls the currency and several pipelines in and out of north Iraq. The Kurdish region is presently entitled to 17% of Iraq's federal budget, of which the Kurds are expected to try to negotiate a bigger share, in addition to greater autonomy. Inside the Kurdish region, elections are slated to be held next month and the two major parties will be looking to leverage the crisis to win votes. It is no accident, analysts say, that President Masoud Barzani, whose term expired in 2015, slated the referendum two months before elections. He hopes to cast himself as a visionary for the Kurds, they say, even if he can't deliver on the dream of independence. AP 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 }} US-backed militias have completely taken Isis' de facto capital, Raqqa, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said on Tuesday, in a major symbolic blow to the jihadist group. The fall of Raqqa, where Isis staged euphoric parades after its string of lightning victories in 2014, is a potent symbol of the movement's collapsing fortunes. The city was used as a base for the group to plan attacks abroad. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by a US-led international alliance, has been fighting Isis inside Raqqa since June. SOHR said 3,250 people were killed in the five-month battle, including 1,130 civilians. A witness said fighting appeared to be almost at an end with only sporadic bursts of gunfire. Militia fighters celebrated in the streets, chanted slogans from their vehicles and raised a flag inside Raqqa stadium. An SDF spokesman said the alliance would capture the last Isis areas in the city within hours. Save The Children has warned that the humanitarian crisis in northeast Syria is "rapidly escalating", with 270,000 people who have fled the fighting in "critical need" of aid and camps "bursting at the seams". On Saturday a deal was brokered for the last remaining local fighters in Raqqa to leave the city. SDF spokesman Talal Silo said then that any fighters who were not signed up to the deal would be left behind "to surrender or die. Woman celebrates after being rescued from Isis in Raqqa The jihadists' last bases in the city, a stadium and a hospital, were captured earlier on Tuesday, the SDF said. A local field commander said no Isis fighters remained at the two central points where militants had been best entrenched and where the SDF said fighting on Monday night and early Tuesday was focused. Recommended Meet the only British woman fighting on the front line against Isis "We do still know there are still IEDs and booby traps in and amongst the areas that ISIS once held, so the SDF will continue to clear deliberately through areas," said Colonel Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the coalition. In a sign that the four-month battle for Raqqa was in its last stages, Col Dillon said there had been no coalition air strikes there on Monday. Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Show all 8 1 /8 Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Syrian Democratic Forces fighters celebrate victory in Raqqa atop of military vehicles REUTERS Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Fighters of Syrian Democratic Forces march past destroyed buildings as they celebrate victory REUTERS Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Fighters of Syrian Democratic Forces gesture the "V" sign in Raqqa REUTERS Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Fighters of Syrian Democratic Forces evacuate a civilian from the stadium REUTERS Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures A civilian prays after she was rescued by fighters of Syrian Democratic Forces from the stadium REUTERS Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Syrian Democratic Forces fighters ride atop of military vehicles as they celebrate victory in Raqqa REUTERS Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures Syrian Democratic Forces fighters celebrate victory in Raqqa REUTERS Syrian Democratic Forces take Raqqa from Isis in pictures A fighter of Syrian Democratic Forces celebrates in Raqqa Reuters It is now hemmed in to a tiny bomb-cratered patch of the city around the stadium that was being pounded from the air by a US-led coalition and encircled by SDF fighters. Isis has lost swathes of territory in Syria and Iraq this year, including its most prized possession, Mosul, and in Syria it has been forced back into a strip of the Euphrates valley and surrounding desert. 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 }} More than 12 million people across the world have shared their experiences of sexual abuse and harassment after the hashtag "Me too" exploded on social media. The phrase began trending on Twitter after people were asked to share their experiences in light of the sexual assault allegations against Harvey Weinstein. Thousands posted in reply to actress Alyssa Milano after she shared a screenshot of the suggestion on social media. "We might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem," she said. After 24 hours, more than 500,000 tweets and 12 million Facebook posts had been shared with the phrase. But now, a new hashtag is being circulated to encourage men to take responsibility. "How many women will it take to say #metoo before men talk about #himthough?" Liz Plank, who started the hashtag, wrote on Twitter. "Why is the burden always on women? I'm done pretending sexual assault is a woman's issue. Your shame is not ours. No sir. #HimThough" Ms Plank's campaign has since gone viral, with hundreds of social media users sharing their own #himthough stories. "We have, as #Men, a responsibility in calling out the bullshit we create as men, reagardless of our sexual orientation. #HimThough," user @2Fikornot2fik wrote. Another, Dominique Fraser, said: "Now that we've highlighted the ubiquity of #metoo, let's change the language and focus to #himtoo #himthough." 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 The #himthough hashtag was not the only campaign to reject #metoo. Other women took to social media to remind users sexual assault survivors should not be forced to share their stories. "Reminder that if a woman didn't post #MeToo, it doesn't mean she wasn't sexually assaulted or harassed. Survivors don't owe you their story," wrote user Alexis Benveniste. Claims against Weinstein have snowballed since a New York Times investigation revealed he had reached out-of-court settlements with eight women earlier this month. Recommended Men like me should fight to end violence against women Asia Argento, Lucia Evans, Lysette Anthony and Rose McGowan are among the actresses who have said they were raped by the disgraced Hollywood mogul. High-profile Hollywood actresses including Angelina Jolie, Kate Beckinsale and Gwyneth Paltrow have said Weinstein harassed them. Weinstein has "unequivocally denied" allegations of non-consensual sex and has not been charged with a crime. He remains under investigation on both sides of the Atlantic. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for weekly expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Jet2 is the UKs most punctual airline according to a new global accreditation programme. Air travel intelligence company OAG rated more than 130 airlines and assessed their punctuality over 12 months. Those with the highest number of flights that arrived within 15 minutes of the scheduled time were awarded a five-star rating Jet2 was the only British airline to achieve this result. With 87.5 per cent of its flights running on time, the low-cost airline was also deemed the 10th most punctual in OAGs list. Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and easyJet were all beaten by Jet2, with three stars apiece. The now defunct Monarch achieved four stars for its punctuality. British Airways and easyJet both operate significantly more flights than Jet2, which may contribute to their lower scores; some 78 per cent of BAs arrive on time, while 75 per cent of easyJets land within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time. Recommended Four British airports named among 10 worst in the world Ryanair, Europes largest airline, was not included in the list as OAG must process flight status information for no less than 80 per cent of scheduled flights in a 12-month period for an airline to be included in the programme. Ryanair currently does not share enough of its flight status data to meet this criterion. OAGs On Time Programme (OTP) also analysed data from airports around the world to determine which were the most punctual. Of the airports in the UK, Birmingham, Cardiff and Liverpool were awarded five stars with 90 per cent, 89 per cent and 87 per cent of flights leaving and arriving on time respectively. London Heathrow, Europes busiest airport, received two stars for punctuality, while London Gatwick obtained just one star, with 38 per cent of flights departing or arriving over 15 minutes late. Jet2.com has shown to have a robust on-time performance during some of the busiest travelling months of the year, although there are clearly improvements that UK airlines can make to their punctuality performance over the next six months, said John Grant, senior analyst at OAG. With the aviation industry going through a turbulent time, there is a lot for the UK airports to be proud of in terms of the speed at which theyre able to get flights on and off the ground. The key for the next 12 months is consistency, as well inevitably see the number of flights in and out of the UK increasing. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for weekly expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} On the day Malaysia Airlines learned it is losing its chief executive, the nations transport minister has said three firms are bidding to continue the search for the ill-fated flight MH370 with one company offering a no find, no fee deal. The Boeing 777 with 239 people aboard went missing in March 2014 on a flight to Beijing from Kuala Lumpur. A two-year search of the southern Indian Ocean, coordinated by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), was called off in January. Recommended Missing MH370 plane mystery remains unsolved in final report But in August, another Australian organisation claimed to have pinpointed the crash site with unprecedented precision and certainty. Speaking to journalists in Kuala Lumpur, the Malaysian Transport Minister, Liow Tiong Lai, said a proposal had been received from the US seabed exploration company Ocean Infinity. It specified payment only if the aircraft was found. Dutch firm Fugro, which was involved in the original search and an unidentified Malaysian company, has also bid for resuming the search. Deep mystery: The Fugro Equator, a vessel used in the search for MH370 (Fugro) We wont be deciding anything now on whether we are embarking on a new search or not, said Mr Liow. The Malaysian government will discuss the options with Australia and China, many of whose citizens were aboard the lost aircraft. Malaysia Airlines is searching for a new chief executive after the incumbent, Peter Bellew, revealed he has been lured back by Ryanair to his former role as chief operations officer for the airline. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for weekly expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Ryanairs Pilotgate saga has taken another twist. The airlines well-regarded former chief operations officer, Peter Bellew, is rejoining in the same role. He will leave his current job as chief executive at Malaysia Airlines, which leaves that carrier with a serious challenge. Last month the Irish airline cancelled 20,000 flights, disrupting the travel plans of around three-quarters of a million people. The cuts were blamed on problems with pilots rosters. Domestic links from Stansted to Edinburgh and Glasgow, and between Gatwick and Belfast International, were among the Ryanair routes cut for the winter. Mick Hickey, who took over from Mr Bellew as chief operations officer, is to leave Ryanair at the end of the month. In a letter to flight crew, Ryanair chief executive Michael OLeary revealed that the senior management team had been given reports about pilot cover which were untrue. The announcement of Mr Bellews reappointment said that his mission is to ensure that the pilot rostering failure which Ryanair suffered in early September will never be repeated. Mr OLeary said: Peter has an unrivalled knowledge of our business model and how we maintain controlled growth, with industry leading punctuality, for the benefit of our customers and our people. Peter will lead a significant transformation in the way we reward and interact with our pilots, improve their working environment and career development over the coming years as we grow the fleet to some 600 aircraft and expand our traffic, at lower fares, to 200 million customers. Mr Bellew is known to have commanded the respect of flight crew, and Ryanair has rehired him to try to build bridges with disaffected pilots. He said: I am excited to return home to Ryanair and take up the challenge to grow the operation sustainably. Since he took over at Malaysia Airlines, the carrier has achieved a turn-round after the twin tragedies involving its Boeing 777s in 2014. The disappearance in March of MH370 with 239 people on board remains aviations greatest mystery. To compound the grief, four months later an identical Malaysia Airlines Boeing, flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, was shot down over eastern Ukraine with the loss of 298 lives. Mr Bellew has brought a low-cost focus on costs to Malaysia Airlines, while at the same time strengthening its full-service proposition in a ferociously competitive market. The carrier may well look to Europe once more to replace its chief executive. 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 }} Confusion reigns about the Austrian election, but the results are mostly in: the OVP (Austrian Peoples Party) has received the highest vote percentage, followed by the SPO (Social Democratic Party of Austria) and then closely by the far-right FPO (Freedom Party of Austria). It looked like the Freedom Party would come in second, but postal votes have nudged the result into the other direction though counting is ongoing and the result remains somewhat unclear. What is clear is that the young Sebastian Kurz of the right-leaning Austrian Peoples Party has lead his party to victory at just 31 years old. The government will have to go into coalition, and the coalition is likely to be heavily right-leaning. As an Austrian citizen whose family come from Libya, I find the result particularly upsetting. I woke up yesterday with the same awful feeling I had when the Brexit results came in. (Actually, the Brexit morning was marginally worse as I woke up, with the TV still on, to Nigel Farage sipping champagne and declaring independence.) It feels like Austria has rejected me like Im no longer wanted where I grew up, or in the UK where I live now. Although its a small country, we cannot ignore Austrias historical significance in setting political trends in Europe. Thus, we await that inevitable right-wing coalition, unless the SPO, with current Chancellor Christian Kern, manage to negotiate an unlikely deal, given the scandalous election campaigns run by all parties. Austrian election results: Who is Sebastian Kurz? Kurz ran his campaign as the fresh-faced, energetic politician untainted by years in the establishment it was the Macron effect, perhaps with a tiny tinge of Trump. He will be my countys youngest ever Chancellor, and the worlds youngest leader. However, we mustnt forget his short but significant history in politics. He became Austrias foreign minister at 27, and played a vital role in shutting down migration routes through Austria. A big part of his campaign centred on anti-immigration sentiments. But its the FPOs large vote share (with controversial candidate Heinz-Christian Strache) that truly scares me and my other Austrian friends. They caused a big stir in the country last year when they got to the final round of presidential elections with their candidate, Norbert Hofer, almost succeeding in becoming Europes first far-right president since the Second World War. We breathed a sigh of relief when he didnt but we knew it wasnt the time for complacency. I wish media outlets would stop referring to the FPO as a populist, far-right party. They need to be called out for what they really are: a vicious, racist organisation that preys on the most vulnerable in society under the guise of patriotism. People like me dont have the luxury of being able to ignore that. Austria election highlights anti-immigrant mood Vienna, my hometown, voted largely for SPO (same as London did for Remain during the EU referendum) so, on a personal level, I feel happy about the politics of the constituencies where Ive chosen to put down roots. But when I ponder whether this really is a good thing, I feel torn. Perhaps it merely reaffirms the fact that I live in an echo chamber of liberal-minded, tolerant peers, most of whom come from the section of society which could be justifiably referred to as a metropolitan elite. In our digital age, it feels like the internet has done more to divide than unite us. Could I have done something to reconnect with disenfranchised voices if Id left social media and tried to talk to people I wouldnt usually mix with face to face? Should I have tried to tackle the polarisation of views I now see everywhere reflected in our politics? The Austrian election has been a turning point for me; none of these issues remain merely academic. Ive never even met a Freedom Party supporter, despite the fact that they apparently make up more than a quarter of the Austrian population. If this is what happens when we section ourselves off, then Im prepared to take responsibility, and to hold out an olive leaf as a self-confessed member of the establishment. If I can open a conversation with Freedom Party supporters, then I welcome a healthy debate with them so long as they can take the time to consider my position too. Wildlife officials want to move mountain goat species SALT LAKE CITY (AP) Conservationists say mountain goats that were introduced by state wildlife officials in Utahs La Sal Mountains are damaging Mount Peales fragile alpine ecosystems. The Salt Lake Tribune reports wildlife officials are now developing proposals to establish goat herds in other Utah ranges where this big game species is not native. Conservationists complain the state is sacrificing alpine landscapes just to provide more opportunities for big game hunting. Researchers say the La Sals are already showing signs where wallowing goats have exposed soils and left excrement and hair all around. Big game specialist Rusty Robinson says officials with the state Division of Wildlife Resources are gathering data on alpine plant communities and will hold public meetings as they develop a Deep Creeks goat plan over the next year. Wild horse roundup continues amid counting dispute CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) A roundup of wild horses continued Monday in the desert of southwestern Wyoming after a judge declined to stop it during a lawsuit over how the animals are counted. As of Sunday, U.S. Bureau of Land Management contract workers had rounded up 1,367 adult horses and 350 foals. The agency could reach its goal of capturing 1,560 adults plus the foals of captured mares this week, bureau spokeswoman Kristen Lenhardt said. The roundup is going on amid a dispute between horse advocates and federal officials over whether the foals should be included in the total count. U.S. District Judge Nancy Freudenthal last week denied a request by the American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign and two wildlife photographers to halt the roundup while their lawsuit against the bureau proceeds. The roundup in three remote areas began Sept. 23. The horse advocates failed to show that allowing the roundup to continue would cause irreparable harm, Freudenthal ruled. Delaying the gather would allow the wild horse population to expand, wasting the BLMs scarce resources invested in organizing the proposed gather and forcing the BLM to lose out on the costs it has already incurred, Freudenthal wrote. Woman gets probation for giving pot gummy to child CASPER, Wyo. (AP) A Wyoming woman will serve four years of probation for giving a marijuana gummy to her daughter. The Casper Star-Tribune reports Vanessa Smith was sentenced Friday after pleading guilty in July to delivery of marijuana to a minor and child endangerment with methamphetamine, both felonies. Smith was sentenced to four to five years imprisonment on the two felonies, with those sentences suspended. If she successfully completes probation, she wont have to go to prison. Court documents say police alleged Smith returned from Colorado with marijuana edibles from a dispensary. After noticing Smiths daughter seemed out of sorts, Smiths sister asked about the child. Smiths boyfriend told the sister Smith had given the girl a marijuana gummy to calm (the child) down. Smith initially pleaded not guilty. 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 }} Donald Trump likes to say that no President in American history accomplished as much in as short a time as he has, and in a few ways, he's actually right. What other President could say that in less than nine months, they did this much damage to the future of American diplomacy? Congratulations, Mr President: America's word is now practically worthless. And the damage will persist even after you're gone. Trump has already pulled us out of the Paris climate accord, which was agreed to by nearly every country on earth. It's looking like he might pull out of Nafta. Perhaps most dangerous of all - and against the obvious wishes of his entire national security team - he's moving toward pulling out of the agreement we made in cooperation with China, Russia, Great Britain, France, Germany and the EU to restrain Iran's nuclear weapons programme. For the moment he is withholding certification of the deal and has proclaimed that it's not in America's interest as he sees it. Whether he pulls out completely will likely be a matter of how good his aides are at restraining his more lunatic impulses. If the Iran deal collapses, there will be little reason for Iran not to restart that weapons programme, the result of which would be either them becoming a nuclear power or the possibility of another Middle East war to stop it from happening. But it goes beyond that. Imagine that you're Kim Jong-un, watching all this happen (as he most certainly is). What is the lesson you would take from seeing one American administration painstakingly negotiate an international nuclear deal, and then the next administration waltz in and toss it aside on the whim of its infantile new president, despite the fact that not only international observers but his own aides attest that Iran is complying with the terms of the deal? There would be only one reasonable conclusion: America doesn't keep its promises, and there is no point in negotiating with them to give up your own nuclear weapons. On the Sunday shows, administration officials were asked what North Korea ought to make of President Trump's actions, and with pained faces they struggled to come up with an answer that didn't sound completely nonsensical. Here's how UN Ambassador Nikki Haley responded to the question on Meet the Press: What we're saying now with Iran is don't let it become the next North Korea. So what this says to North Korea is, 'Don't expect us to engage in a bad deal. And also, if at any point we do come up with something, expect us to follow through with it. Expect us to hold you accountable. You're not just going to have a free-for-all.' Secretary of State Rex Tillerson got asked the question on CNN's State of the Union and delivered the same line: I think what North Korea should take away from this decision is that the United States will expect a very demanding agreement with North Korea, one that is very binding and achieves the objectives, not just of the United States, but the policy objectives of China and other neighbours in the region, a denuclearised Korean Peninsula. We intend to be very demanding in that agreement. And if we achieve that, then there will be nothing to walk away from, because the objective will be achieved. So the idea here is that North Korea is going to see the steps this administration is taking with Iran and not say, There's no point in signing an agreement with the United States, because they might just walk away from it, but instead they'll say, Wow, those Americans sure are tough about making sure other countries stick to the agreements they make. We should start negotiating with them immediately! Haley and Tillerson are obviously not stupid enough to believe that, and I doubt they're even stupid enough to think that anyone watching would believe it, either. The only person who could possibly believe it is the one who's actually making the decision. I've been arguing for some time that Donald Trump has a conception of deal-making that is fundamentally unsuited to politics, both domestically and internationally. In Trump's career as a businessman, he came to believe that all deals are zero-sum. They have a winner and a loser, and if you're not the former than you're the latter. The measure of a good deal is whether you came out ahead and the other guy lost his shirt. In practice that meant running a series of scams, his assumption being that there were always more marks out there who only knew about his celebrity and didn't realise how he actually did business. He could stiff contractors or set up a sham university selling real estate secrets, and no matter how angry those who got conned were, there would still be suckers lining up for the next grift. But that's not how it works in politics. The number of potential partners for deals, whether it's members of Congress or other nations, is finite. And they all know what you did last time. Each potential deal is affected by what happened in the deal before it, and trust is absolutely vital. But it goes even farther. When you're President, the deals you make will be affected by the deals your predecessors made, and this is where the long-term damage becomes evident. After Paris and (perhaps) Nafta and Iran, it isn't just that other countries won't be willing to sign an agreement with Donald Trump. They may not even be willing to sign one with the next President. As a friend pointed out to me Monday in an email, when Barack Obama was elected, there was a gigantic sigh of relief around the world, as though the aberration of the George W. Bush presidency was over and now the United States' role as a force of moral authority and stability would be restored. But now it looks to the world like Obama was the aberration, an interregnum of reason and restraint before the US elected another President who would be a force of chaos and instability. Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Show all 30 1 /30 Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Threatening to shut down Twitter after being fact-checked After the president tweeted that voting by post would be "substantially fraudulent", Twitter attached a warning label to his tweet and referred readers to a site which explained how the claim was "unsubstantiated". Trump then said Twitter was "stifling free speech" and that he may have to shut it down, something which he would not have the power to do AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Flippantly dismissing a serious allegation of sexual assault When author E Jean Carroll accused Trump of raping her, the president responded: Number one, shes not my type. Number two, it never happened. It never happened, OK?" AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Insulting the Mayor of London as he landed in London Just before touching down at Stansted Airport for his state visit, Trump took time out to @ the London mayor Sadiq Khan on twitter. He said that Khan has done a "terrible job"as mayor and that he is a "stone cold loser" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Taking plenty of "Executive Time" The president's official schedule sets aside the hours from 8 to 11am daily for "Executive Time". Further intermittent periods of "Executive Time" are scheduled throughout any given day, ranging from 15 minutes to 3 hours. His duties in these hours have not been officially disclosed, though Axios reports that he spends them watching TV, reading the newspapers and tweeting Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Shutdown the government for over a month in an effort to secure funding for his wall With Mexico declining to pay for the wall, the president has faced difficulty in raising the required $5bn at home. Due to his demand that the money for the wall be included in the budget, and Congress's refusal, the government partially shut down on 22 December 2018. It remained shut for over a month, the longest period in history Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Joking about the Nazi occupation of France to President Macron In this tweet from 13 November 2018, the president mocks Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of a "true, European army" by invoking the conflict between France and Germany in the world wars Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Railing against the Mueller investigation The president has repeatedly claimed that the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, is a "rigged witch hunt" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting a US intelligence report on Russian meddling in the presence of Vladimir Putin In the press conference that followed his landmark meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, Trump stated that he saw no reason why Russia would have meddled in the 2016 US election. This contradicted a 2017 report by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence that found evidence of Russian interference in favour of Trump Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting his contradiction of a US intelligence report on Russian meddling Following furious backlash in the US, the president claimed that he meant to say that he saw no reason why it would not have been Russia who meddled in the 2016 US election. As to why he would have intended to use such bizarre phrasing, he did not comment Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Colouring in the US flag wrong The president coloured in the US flag wrongly during a visit to a children's hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He added a blue stripe where in tradition, and statute, there have been only white and red stripes AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing a Secretary of State over Twitter The president announced on Twitter that he was appointing Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State, much to the surprise of then Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Quoting a catchphrase from a reality TV show when discussing police brutality While addressing the issue of black athletes not standing for the national anthem in protest of police brutality, the president made reference to his catchphrase from reality TV show "The Apprentice": you're fired! Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Calling African nations "S***hole Countries" Ever one for diplomacy, the president reportedly referred to African nations as "s***hole countries". Asked to confirm this when meeting with Nigeria's President Buhari, Trump stated that there are "some countries that are in very bad shape". Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Defending Russian President Vladimir Putin Trump appeared to equate US foreign actions to those of Russian president Vladimir Putin, saying: There are a lot of killers. You think our countrys so innocent? Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Asking for people to 'pray' for Arnold Schwarzenegger At the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump couldnt help but to ask for prayers for the ratings on Arnold Schwarzeneggers show to be good. Schwarzenegger took over as host of The Apprentice which buoyed Trumps celebrity status years ago Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Hanging up on Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull Early in his presidency, Trump reportedly hung up the phone on Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull after the foreign leader angered him over refugee plans. Mr Trump later said that it was the worst call he had had so far Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... The 'Muslim ban' Perhaps one of his most controversial policies while acting as president, Trumps travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries has bought him a lot of criticism. The bans were immediately protested, and judges initially blocked their implementation. The Supreme Court later sided with the administrations argument that the ban was developed out of concern for US security Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Praising crowd size while touring Hurricane Harvey damage After Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeastern Texas, Trump paid the area a visit. While his response to the disaster in Houston was generally applauded, the president picked up some flack when he gave a speech outside Houston (he reportedly did not visit disaster zones), and praised the size of the crowds there AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... 'Little Rocket Man' During his first-ever speech to the United Nations General Assembly, Trump tried out a new nickname for North Korea leader Kim Jong-un: Rocket Man. He later tweaked it to be little Rocket Man as the two feuded, and threatened each other with nuclear war. During that speech, he also threatened to totally annihilate North Korea Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Attacking Sadiq Khan following London Bridge terror attack After the attack on the London Bridge, Trump lashed out at London Mayor Sadiq Khan, criticising Khan for saying there was no reason to be alarmed after the attack. Trump was taking the comments out of context, as Khan was simply saying that the police had everything under control Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming presenter Mika Brezinkski was 'bleeding from the face' Never one not to mock his enemies, Trump mocked MSNBCs Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski, saying that she and co-host Joe Scarborough had approached him before his inauguration asking to join him. He noted that she was bleeding badly from a face-lift at the time, and that he said no MSNBC Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming the blame for Charlottesville was on 'both sides' Trump refused to condemn far-right extremists involved in violence at 'the march for the right' protests in Charlottesville, even after the murder of counter protester Heather Heyer AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Retweeting cartoon of CNN being hit by a 'Trump train' Trump retweeted a cartoon showing a Trump-branded train running over a person whose body and head were replaced by a CNN avatar. He later deleted the retweet Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Tweeting about 'slamming' CNN Trump caught some flack when he tweeted a video showing him wrestling down an individual whose head had been replaced by a CNN avatar. Trump has singled CNN out in particular with his chants of fake news Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing head of the FBI, James Comey Trumps firing of former FBI Director James Comey landed him with a federal investigation into Russias meddling in the 2016 election that has caused many a headache for the White House. The White House initially said that the decision was made after consultation from the Justice Department. Then Mr Trump himself said that he had decided to fire him in part because he wanted the Russia investigation Mr Comey was conducting to stop Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Not realising being president would be 'hard' Just three months into his presidency, Trump admitted that being president is harder than he thought it would be. Though Trump insisted on the 2016 campaign trail that doing the job would be easy for him, he admitted in an interview that living in the White House is harder than running a business empire Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Accusing Obama of wiretapping him Trump accused former president Barack Obama of wire tapping him on twitter. The Justice Department later clarified: Obama had not, in fact, done so Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming there had been 3 million 'illegal votes' Trump was never very happy about losing the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by 2.8 million ballots. So, he and White House voter-fraud commissioner Kris Kobach have claimed that anywhere between three and five million people voted illegally during the 2016 election. Conveniently, he says that all of those illegal votes went to Clinton. (There is no evidence to support that level of widespread voter fraud.) Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Leaving Jews out of the Holocaust memorial statement Just days after taking office, Trumps White House issued a statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, but didnt mention jews or even the word jewish in the written statement Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Anger over Inauguration crowd size Trumps inauguration crowd was visibly, and noticeably, smaller than that of his predecessor, Barack Obama. But, he really wanted to have had the largest crowd on record. So, he praised it as the biggest crowd ever. Relatedly, Trump also claimed that it stopped raining in Washington at the moment he was inaugurated. It didnt, the day was very dreary Reuters So imagine if a Democrat wins the White House in 2020, then tries to restore America's place of leadership, which could involve agreements both with allies and adversaries. It would be perfectly rational for potential partners to say, We accept your good faith, but how do we know that in four years your country won't elect another ignorant halfwit TV personality who will cancel this agreement? I wish there were a good answer to that question. The Washington Post Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The lady came down the corridor with a big smile and gave us the key to Hitlers room. It was an old brass key Im sure he had flunkies to open the door for him but it was the original all right, and when we pushed open that door, there it was, all wooden panelling, wooden floors and there was the marble mantelpiece I had seen so many times in those familiar newsreels. For this wasnt just Hitlers party office the Fuehrerhaus in Koenigsplatz. This was the room where they signed the Munich agreement in 1938, this was where we in the shape of Chamberlain and Halifax and the French (Daladier) and the Italians (Mussolini, of course, and Count Ciano) signed away the Czechs. The films show Hitler sitting at his own desk in front of the marble fireplace, gobbling up the Sudetenland he would consume all of Czechoslovakia the following year. My friend is elderly, a Sudeten German among the minority Germans living in Czechoslovakia, who was forced to flee his own home as a child at the end of the war. And this is where the war started, he said. Here they started the Second World War and signed away my own home. 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 He still travels to his home town of what was Carlsbad today Karlovy Vary and he pays someone to look after the family graves. No one at the end of the war felt much sympathy for the Sudeten Germans. Hitler had used Sudeten Nazis to demand independence from the Czechs that was the deal at Munich. And this is still the room forever associated with the word Appeasement. Its actually a rather droll room, dark, heavy panelling, dull, tall windows, a 1930s monster building, the doors and windows far taller than a man or woman. It lacks imagination. I can think of a few other modern day fuehrers who might feel at home here. Its part of a music school and theatre now after the war, it was for some years an American cultural centre and there is no mention of the man whose party headquarters this was. I asked a few Muncheners if they knew who used to work here. Yes, they knew. I slipped out to the balcony (where I was not supposed to walk). Yes, he stood here but the eagle over the balcony in the photographs has long gone. So, mercifully, have the shrines to Nazi martyrs that stood beside this building it was blown up after the war; the wild bushes that still grow on the site speak of guilt and war crimes and a titanic race war. But the great marble staircase that led to Hitlers room is still intact, a power staircase, all fake classical steps in keeping with the portentousness of the building. Up here Hitler walked. AfD co-leader: Millions of voters have entrusted us with the task of constructive opposition work Its not curiosity I feel, but a sense of foreboding. We betrayed the Czechs and ensured that Czech Jews would go to the extermination camps. The fact that the Israeli consulate has been constructed right behind the old Nazi offices is somehow fitting. Even more so because at right angles to it is a modern museum where you can watch, over and over again, the original newsreels of the Munich agreement. There is Chamberlain arriving at Munich airport, inspecting a Nazi guard of honour, and theres an odd moment at the end of this footage when he slightly lifts his hat in salute to the German soldiers around him. He was happy. He would declare peace in our time. And then I see him walking up the staircase Ive just climbed myself and there is Daladier and Halifax and Mussolini. Giant flags British and French hung down the front of the Fuehrerhaus. And theres another clip of film which shows Goering with a broad smile on his face, standing next to Hitler, rubbing his hands together in sheer delight that Chamberlain and Daladier would not call Hitlers bluff. Hitler would reportedly call them worms after theyd left, of course. Italian paper defends publication of Hitlers Mein Kampf Its all here in this modest museum, shockingly so. There are photographs of a Munich regiment participating in the execution of hostages. There is a terrible picture of five young women executed by a Munich firing squad in Slovenia after Yugoslavia had been occupied. They lie on the ground like puppets, as if tossed away. The firing squad has turned their backs on the bodies, disowning their own act of murder. And there, of course, are the familiar pictures of the destruction of Europes Jews. Its worth remembering this museum and that room now that the right has returned to Germanys political life. Interviewed on television after their victory, one of the AfD leaders referred to immigrants he meant Muslims, of course as strange people with strange values from strange countries. And I remembered that old Chamberlain quotation again, speaking of Czechoslovakia as a faraway country of which we know nothing. I dont suppose Chamberlain hated the Czechs, but he certainly felt contempt for them. They were not invited to the Munich conference. And theres a narrow divide between hatred and contempt (although right now Trump might be able to say that everywhere apart from the United States is a faraway country of which he knows nothing). Ukip's Neil Hamilton: Michel Barnier's negotiations like Adolf Hitler The agreement was signed in the early hours of the morning on 30 September 1938. A J P Taylor described Hitler as an opportunist at Munich. Ian Kershaw says that Hitler felt cheated he wanted war. Within months, Hitler had broken the Agreement and occupied the whole country, and we did nothing about it. There had been some light-hearted banter at Munich. The Czech delegation waiting outside to know their fate noticed that Chamberlain kept yawning. An incipient opposition to Hitler within the Wehrmacht was cut short at least temporarily because the Western democracies would give Hitler what he wanted without war. Churchill got it right when he urged the democracies to bring Stalin in on their side. But Chamberlain had little interest in allying himself with the Soviets. Anyway, they were not invited to Munich. And Stalin would make his deal with Hitler before the German invasion of Poland that started the real war. But in 1945, the Soviet army would reach Berlin before the British and French. I guess that Chamberlain will always have to be regarded as an ignominious man. Arrogance is what you see in the film of him, self-importance, a man who must have felt at home walking up that marble staircase. My German friend Horst says he cannot understand why the democracies let Hitler get away with it. And Ive noticed how appeasement is still trotted out and thrown at anyone who opposes war war in Afghanistan, war in Iraq, war in Libya. Hitlers former party headquarters is not haunted by ghosts, as the old cliche goes about such places. Chamberlains legacy in that room remains with us still, a tool for proving that war is necessary. Bill Clinton has warned that some Brexit voters may only now be realising the impact of their decision. The former US president said the choice between community and tribe will determine how the world meets the threat posed by climate change, inequality and other great challenges. After being honoured by Dublin City University for his work on peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, Mr Clinton said he used the example of the Good Friday Agreement shamelessly around the world. But he warned that the Brexit vote was about people thinking differences are more important that what they have in common. "Now, there are lots of people who think they are less human," he said. "Now given the economic inequalities and the rapid pace of social change and all the upheaval that's going on .... people are reassessing whether what we have in common is more important than our differences. "A lot of people begged to differ. "That's really what the Brexit vote is all about." Mr Clinton was awarded an honorary doctorate of philosophy, DCU's highest honour. Alongside him were Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, a lifelong social justice campaigner who founded Focus Ireland, the country's biggest homeless charity, and the Immigrant Council of Ireland. Also honoured at the event in the Helix was Martin Naughton, founder of manufacturing giant Glen Dimplex. Mr Clinton reflected on his own legacy with the Good Friday Agreement, signed in Belfast in 1998, mid-way through his two terms in the White House. Ultimately the accord was brokered after he took a more hands-on approach to US diplomacy on the island of Ireland at the height of the Troubles. Mr Clinton travelled direct to Northern Ireland for private meetings with politicians after the ceremony - his intervention in the political stalemate delayed by a day because of Storm Ophelia. In a lengthy address to hundreds of invited guests and students in the Helix in DCU, Mr Clinton warned about inequalities and divisions. "The world is now in a conflict whether we should stop our mingling with others at the tribal level or whether communities are better; whether diverse groups make better decisions and create wealth and life and opportunity or homogenous ones do as they don't push us so hard and we feel more secure," he said. "We can't get away from each other so we should look at our neighbours without regard to their race, religion, their orientation or whatever." Mr Clinton raised concerns about the rise of nationalist parties in Germany, France, the Netherlands and Austria and also the impact of Brexit. Mr Clinton added: "All partnerships that are community-based are held together not because everybody agrees with everybody else, not because we don't still have our particular identities, but because co-operation is better than conflict or isolation in any environment in which you must be in touch with others. "It's a simple proposition. But we are re-litigating it now." Mimicking a voter in the referendum on Britain's place in the EU, he said: "I'm sorry we can't stay together, we had a disagreement. Oh my God, I didn't know I was going to lose that customs thing and all these economic benefits. Why didn't anyone tell me that?" Mr Clinton described the Good Friday Agreement as a "wonderful blinding moment of bigness". "The children of God and humans chose community," he said. "Nobody abandoned their tribe, they just lived in the same neighbourhood. "We must make that choice again. How we think will determine what we do with every other challenge facing us. It is the most important thing." Mr Clinton called for universities to be places of honest discussion about whether it is better to live in a tribe apart, or a community of many tribes with shared values and mutual respect. "Believe me, it is just one example of what is dominating the discussion all over the world," he said. "Some thought needs to be given before we abandon community to return to tribe. "You can keep your tribe." He added: "You don't have to give up your tribal identity to respect your larger humanity, without which the world will not continue to thrive. "How we think about this will determine how we deal with everything else, with climate change, with the largest species destruction rates in 10,000 years, with vast inequalities." In a citation for Mr Clinton, Professor Gary Murphy, of DCU's School of Law and Government, said: "Peace-making is always difficult, but there can be little doubt that the conflict in Northern Ireland was ultimately resolved because that great beacon of liberty, the USA, decided that it could use its influence to make the vital difference. "That fateful decision was taken in the Oval Office by President Bill Clinton." Prof Murphy also paid tribute to Mr Clinton's work on the Balkan wars, responding to the 2004 tsunami and 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Storm Ophelia has caused further disruption after three people died in hurricane-force winds and hundreds of thousands were left without power. Ireland and Northern Ireland bore the brunt of the storm as it battered the island and Great Britain, with more than 170,000 homes and businesses still without power in the Republic on Tuesday. Scotland was braced for gusts of up to 70mph and flood warnings were in place on its west coast as the remnants of the hurricane hit the country and northern England. Commuters were hit by delays caused by the weather, with several rail lines blocked by fallen trees and other problems. Train services were temporarily hit between Glasgow and Edinburgh, and from the capital to Aberdeen, Dundee and Perth, as trees were blown on to tracks. In Glasgow part of a derelict block of flats already earmarked for partial demolition collapsed at about 4am, and a scout hall roof was blown off in Dumfries and Galloway as the region took the brunt of winds up to 77mph. In Cumbria the county council said high winds had torn the roof from a house in Whitehaven and even torn traffic lights from their poles, as well as causing traffic disruption. Part of the roof of a stand at National League team Barrow AFC was also ripped off by the wind. Ireland experienced the worst of the weather on Monday, with winds of almost 100mph damaging electricity networks and causing widespread disruption. Wind speeds reached 97mph (156kph) in County Cork, while the UK's strongest gales reached 90mph (145kph) in Gwynedd, north Wales, the Met Office said. About 170,000 Irish customers were still without power on Tuesday afternoon, with the worst damage in the southern part of the Republic. Around 69,000 people meanwhile remained without water. Households in the worst affected areas from Wexford to Skibbereen in Co Cork have been asked to conserve their water supply as far as possible while repair work continues as reservoirs are re-filled. Irish Defence Force soldiers have been deployed with vehicles and helicopters to help assess damage as thousands of staff from ESB, the Republic of Ireland's electricity network, worked to fix fallen and broken cables. Crews from Northern Ireland will join efforts on Tuesday while others from Scotland and France are expected to be drafted in to help from Wednesday. Schools on both sides of the Irish border remained closed for a second day as authorities began to assess the damage, but most are expected to open on Wednesday. Fintan Goss, 33, died in Ravensdale, Dundalk, when a car he was in was hit by a tree at about 2.45pm, gardai said. Mr Goss, who had become a father for the second time just weeks ago, was returning home from work and was just 10 minutes from home when the accident happened, Louth county councillor John McGahon said. In Cahir, Co Tipperary, 31-year-old Michael Pyke was killed in a chainsaw accident when he was trying to clear a tree downed by the wind. His death came after former oncology nurse Clare O'Neill, 58, died when a tree fell on her car in strong winds near Aglish village in Co Waterford. Ireland's national emergency co-ordination group was meeting in Dublin on Tuesday to assess the extent of the damage. Prime Minister Theresa May spoke to her Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar on Monday afternoon to offer support. A clear-up operation is also under way in Northern Ireland, where around 1,700 homes and businesses are still experiencing disrupted electricity supplies, with the worst affected parts across counties Down, Armagh and Antrim. The UK Met Office has reduced the area covered by a yellow weather warning, but has still said a spell of "very windy weather is likely". The warning now covers south-west Scotland, parts of north-east England and Yorkshire. Its forecast said: "Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen." Ryanair has rehired its former flight operations director in a bid to ensure there is no repeat of recent flight cancellations. Peter Bellew, who left in 2014, will return as chief operations officer on December 1 following the airline's mismanagement of pilots' leave. Michael Hickey stood down from the role after the airline cancelled 20,000 flights. On Monday Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: " I don't think it was a triumphal period in the history of Ryanair". Mr Bellew, who is currently chief executive at Malaysia Airlines, will take responsibility for pilot production, training and career development, with a "mission to ensure that the pilot rostering failure which Ryanair suffered in early September will never be repeated", according to the Dublin-based carrier. Chief executive Michael O'Leary said: "We are pleased to welcome Peter back to Ryanair. "Having worked previously in a senior role in our operations team, Peter has an unrivalled knowledge of our business model and how we maintain controlled growth, with industry leading punctuality, for the benefit of our customers and our people. "Peter will lead a significant transformation in the way we reward and interact with our pilots, improve their working environment and career development over the coming years." Mr O'Leary angered pilots shortly after the flights were cancelled by claiming they do not suffer fatigue from short-haul flying and urged them to " explain how this is ... a difficult job". Mr Bellew said: " I am excited to return home to Ryanair and take up the challenge to grow the operation sustainably. I look forward to working with all the team and all the crews I know so well." A man takes a selfie in waves and high wind at Lahinch in County Clare on the west coast of Ireland Thousands of people remain without power and water following Storm Ophelia, with a huge recovery operation under way across Ireland. Three people died when the ex-hurricane, the strongest storm to hit Ireland in almost 60 years, battered the country on Monday. A major clean-up and repair operation has begun with engineers working to restore downed power lines and crews clearing away fallen trees. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, who visited engineers working to restore power in some of the worst-hit areas, said it could be eight days before some people get power switched back on. "It is anticipated that the vast majority of people will have power restored in the next three to four days," he said. "Some may be without power for eight days." Father-of-two Fintan Goss, 33, was killed in Ravensdale, Dundalk, when a car he was in was struck by a tree 10 minutes from home on Monday. Louth county councillor John McGahon described Mr Goss, who he said became a father for the second time in recent weeks, and his family as "extremely well-regarded in the community". In Cahir, Co Tipperary, 31-year-old Michael Pyke was attempting to clear a fallen tree with a chainsaw when the tragedy occurred. Gardai believe that Mr Pyke was attempting to move the tree on the Cahir to Ardfinnan road, when another tree collapsed and struck him. Earlier, former oncology nurse Clare O'Neill, who was just short of her 59th birthday, died when a tree fell on her car in strong winds near Aglish village in Co Waterford. Tributes were paid to Ms O'Neill, who worked as a nurse at Cork ARC Cancer Support House for more than a decade. Ellen Joyce, director of services at the charity, said: "We are all deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our friend and colleague Clare O'Neill. "She was a wonderful nurse and a special person who will be missed by the Cork ARC Cancer Support House team, our volunteers and all the people and patients she worked with here and in Youghal. "Our thoughts are with her family at this most difficult time." Mr Varadkar said there had been two incidents where emergency workers had almost died due to downed power lines. Around 170,000 customers were still without power on Tuesday afternoon, with the worst damage in the southern part of the Republic. People in the worst affected areas, from Wexford to Skibbereen in Co Cork, have been asked to conserve their water supply as far as possible while repair work continues as reservoirs are refilled. Soldiers have been deployed in the Republic, along with two military vehicles and two helicopters to help assess damage as thousands of ESB staff work to fix fallen and broken cables. Crews from Northern Ireland will join efforts this evening while others from Scotland and France are expected to be drafted in to help from Wednesday. A spokesman for ESB said there had been reports of a number of "very near misses" involving those working to restore supply almost making contact with live electrical wires. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and stay safe if they come across any fallen wires. Following reports that some people had ignored the "danger to life" warnings issued, Sean Hogan, chairman of the national emergency co-ordination group, said: "I deplore people who put lives of public sector workers at risk from some of their actions. "I think they need to have a strong look at themselves." Schools, which took a second day off, are expected to reopen on Wednesday although some may be unable to do so due to damage, a spokeswoman for the Republic's education authority said. A clear-up operation is also under way in Northern Ireland, where around 1,800 homes and businesses are still experiencing disrupted electricity supplies, with the worst affected parts across counties Down, Armagh and Antrim. The head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, David Sterling, said: "As people return to work there is a need for care, particularly in relation to large trees and electric lines. "Contractors should also check all scaffolding to ensure it hasn't moved during the storm." The civil contingencies group, which helped co-ordinate the response in Northern Ireland, was stood down on Tuesday morning after updates from agencies involved in the clear-up. Violent winds peaked at 119mph (191kph) at Fastnet Lighthouse off the south-west coast of Ireland during the storm. British Prime Minister Theresa May failed to offer new ideas on the "unique circumstances" facing the Border region during a 40-minute phone call with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. The pair spoke at length about Brexit ahead of a surprise visit to Brussels by Mrs May amid efforts to end the deadlock in talks. Mrs May, along with Brexit Minister David Davis, had dinner in Brussels last night with EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier. The meeting ended with hugs from the EU chief and an agreement that negotiations on the UK's departure from the EU need to be sped up. Ahead of a meeting of EU leaders on Thursday, both sides said the stalled talks "should accelerate over the months to come". The prime minister's office insisted that the previously unpublicised meeting had been planned for some time. But the published EU schedules of meetings taking place this week had made no reference to it. Much of the focus is on the Brexit divorce bill, with EU estimates placing it at between 60bn and 100bn to cover ongoing budget deals already made, and the cost of British EU officials' salaries and pensions. London has rejected these figures, and Mrs May is understood to be prepared to pay 20bn per year for two years. Mrs May's office downplayed any suggestion that new proposals were on the table, arguing that her recent speech in Florence, Italy, constituted her latest offer. A spokesman for Mr Varadkar said the two leaders had last night spoken on the phone and discussed Brexit. "This included the unique circumstances regarding the Border, and preparation for this week's European Council meeting in Brussels," the Taoiseach's spokesman said. But he offered no further detail, suggesting there was no sign of any imminent breakthrough. "They looked forward to seeing each other in Brussels on Thursday and agreed to maintain close contact on all of the above issues," he said. Earlier, Mrs May also spoke on the phone with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and also planned a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron on the issue. The Taoiseach will travel to Brussels for the special EU leaders' summit. But unless there is a huge turnaround in the negotiations, there appears little prospect of things moving on to the EU-UK post-Brexit trade relationship, which is crucial to Ireland's interests. Mrs May's diplomatic foray coincides with stronger signals coming from London. At the weekend the British Finance Minister Philip Hammond, seen as a Brexit moderate, referred to the EU as "the enemy". There were also reported signals in London that Britain is now seriously contemplating "walking away with no deal". Many observers had noted no sign of the UK government putting in place strategic plans for the huge and costly customs operation that a "no deal" would comprise. British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson, attending an EU ministers' meeting in Luxembourg, again spoke of the need for progress in the Brexit negotiations. In 2016, the European Union (EU) imported almost 93m tonnes of food from outside the EU, worth a total of 101bn. Compared to 2012, food imports have increased by 6pc in terms of volume and by 18pc in terms of value, according to newly released Eurostat figures. On the other hand, in 2016 the EU exported 91m tonnes of food outside of its borders. These exports were worth 84bn. Compared with five years ago, this is an increase of 42pc in volume and 20pc in value. The Netherlands, largest food exporter in terms of value to countries outside the EU Last year, the Netherlands exported 13bn of food outside the EU. This represents 16pc of total extra-EU food exports, making the Netherlands the largest exporter of food to non-EU countries among all Member States. The Netherlands was ahead of Germany and France (11bn each, 11pc), followed by Italy and Spain (around 8bn each, 9pc). The United States was the main destination for these exports. The EU Member States sent 8bn of food to the United States in 2016 (10pc of total extra-EU exports of food in value). Other major destinations were China (7.5bn, 9pc), Switzerland (5.6bn, 7pc), Japan and Saudi Arabia (3.8bn each, 4pc). Imports of food into the EU from countries located outside the EU came mainly from Brazil (9bn, or 9pc of total extra-EU food imports), the United States (7bn, 7pc) and Norway (6.8bn, 7pc), followed by Argentina (5.4bn, 5pc), China (4.8bn, 5pc) and Turkey (4.5bn, 4pc). Cereals top product exported from the EU; fruit and vegetables top products imported When looking at specific food groups, the EU exported over 14bn of cereals such as wheat, spelt, barley and oats in 2016, accounting for almost one fifth of the total extra-EU food exports (17pc) in value. The next largest group was made up of vegetables and fruit (12bn, 14pc), meat (11bn, 13pc) as well as dairy products and eggs (10bn, 12pc). The EU Member States imported mainly fruit and vegetables (almost 30bn, or 30pc of total extra-EU food imports), fish (24bn, 24pc) and coffee, tea, cocoa and spices (19bn, 19pc) from third countries. France will propose changing the European Commissions mandate to negotiate a trade deal with South Americas Mercosur bloc to include food safety provisions, its envoy to Brazil said on this week. French ambassador Michel Miraillet said there was heightened concern in the European Union over food safety after a series of recent scandals, including the bribing of inspectors by meatpackers in Brazil to overlook sanitary practices. Miraillet said France expected four or five EU countries to back its plan to propose updating the Commissions negotiating authority. We dont know what will happen, but this is one proposal that will be made. The mandate dates from 1999 and needs to be modified, the diplomat told Brazilian reporters. The government of President Emmanuel Macron is under pressure from French farmers to avoid competition from cheaper Mercosur products, especially meat and ethanol. At a gathering of farmers and food producers last week, Macron said he was in no hurry to conclude by the end of the year trade negotiations that have dragged on for 18 years. Brazils foreign ministry declined to comment on the ambassadors comments. A European diplomat, who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, said Frances planned request was a delaying tactic. A Brazilian diplomat, who also requested anonymity, said the French proposal was an attempt to intimidate Mercosur, whose members are seeking greater market access for food exports to the EU. Mercosur members Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay want the EU to improve an offer to open its markets to South American beef and ethanol if it wants to seal a trade deal by year-end. Europe has offered to allow 70,000t of beef and 600,000t of ethanol to enter the EU with reduced import duties, which Brazilian and Argentinian negotiators described as disappointing. The European Commission, which negotiates on behalf of all EU countries, has to balance the interests of members pushing for a trade deal and those such as France and Ireland that are concerned about a glut of agricultural imports from Mercosur. A farmer in the UK has been filmed shouting "get off my land" while on a quad bike as he confronted hunt saboteurs. Trouble broke out when members of the West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs filmed the Atherstone Hunt on Saturday afternoon. The farmer, dressed in green overalls, is recorded driving a quad bike up to three men and shouting at them to "get off my land". He is then filmed jumping off the bike before pushing one of the group into a ditch before turning on the other two protesters. As the men walk backwards along the track, the man continues to drive towards them with his quad bike, shouting: "You are on private property, I can do what I want." In one moment, the man's quad bike knocks one of the group off his feet and into a ditch. A West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs spokesman said: "If the quad bike carried on it could have landed on him in the ditch." The video was filmed during the hunt near the Leicestershire village of Ratcliffe Culey. A Leicestershire Police spokesman said: "Officers are investigating an allegation of assault after a man sustained minor injuries in Ratcliffe Culey, Leicestershire, at the weekend. "A report was made at 12.31pm on Saturday, October 14 which related to the victim having sustained an injury as a result of being involved in a collision with a quad bike. Enquiries are continuing into the incident." The commencement of advance payments under the 2017 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and the Greening Payment has been announced. These payments, worth some 700m to 111,000 farmers and come following recent discussions between the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed and the EU Commission. Minister Creed also confirmed that the level of the advance payment is set at 70pc for 2017 rather than 50pc as provided for in the EU legislation. "Every year, the advance payment of the BPS is a vital support for farmers across sectors in terms of maximising cash flow. It is a priority for my Department that these payments issue in the most efficient manner possible, and that they commence on the earliest date possible under EU Regulations. The Minister also commented that I am happy to confirm that the 111,000 farmers paid in the initial tranche of advance payments represent an increase over the 109,000 farmers paid at this stage last year. "Over 90pc of eligible applicants for the BPS have now been paid in this first tranche. As we move to full online application by 2018, my Department will be able to introduce further efficiencies into the processing of payments which will be of direct benefit to farmers. Payments under the Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme also continue to issue as cases are cleared for payment. Minister Creed added that the advance BPS payment and the ANC payments taken together mean that over 880m has now issued to Irish farmers in the last month. "These payments provide a significant financial boost for individual farmers and the wider rural economy. I was delighted to secure an increase in the ANC scheme allocation for 2018. This 25m increase will provide direct financial support to farmers in the most marginal areas of the Country." The Minister indicated that advance payments will continue issuing regularly until mid-November, with balancing payments to commence issuing from early December. In order to facilitate farmers who wish to contact the Department in relation to their BPS or ANC payments, extended hours are now in place for the Direct Payments Helpline. For the period from October 17 to October 21, farmers can ring the Department at 076 106 4420 between 9am and 8.30pm on weekdays and from 9am to 1pm on Saturday. The Minister also confirmed that payments under the 2017 National Reserve and Young Farmers Scheme will commence early in December 2017 The Minister said payments under the BPS and ANC scheme will continue to issue as individual cases are cleared. "I will continue to prioritise the ongoing processing of payments, subject to the requirements of the schemes being met," he said. The Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has confirmed that he is aware of a recent report of alleged illegal movement of sheep into the Republic of Ireland. The Department of Agriculture confirmed that confidential information was received regarding possible breaches of intra-community sheep movement requirements. It said this information is being examined at present and therefore it is not appropriate to make any further comment at this time lest any investigation be compromised. Minister Creed said the health of the national sheep flock relies on the observance of identification and trade rules. Sheep smuggling results in the breach of these rules and could pose disease risks for the national sheep flock. Reports of illegal movement of sheep are examined by staff in my Department. Where evidence of a breach of identification or trade requirements is established, such cases may be prosecuted, provided the evidence is considered sufficient to sustain a conviction. My Department works closely with An Garda Siochana and with the corresponding authorities in Northern Ireland in an effort to combat farm-animal related crime. Should evidence of illegal movement of sheep into the country be substantiated, every effort will be made to have the matter prosecuted, he said. Veteran banker Gabriel Bannigan has stepped down from his role as head of Bank of Ireland Private after the lender shifted responsibility for the business to Sean O Murchu, head of Bank of Ireland Life. It is understood that Mr Bannigan is in line for another senior position as details about the full extent of the merging of the Private Bank with the rest of the group emerge. Bank of Ireland confirmed that it has recently completed what it described as a "series of corporate alignment improvements" across its Wealth platform including the appointment of Sean O Murchu as director of Wealth Distribution. The changes come as the new Bank of Ireland CEO Francesca McDonagh, who took over the reins from Richie Boucher earlier this month, considers a fresh strategic course for the group. It also follows a string of senior executive departures in recent months. These include Mick Sweeney, who led the group's wealth-management operations for almost six years and acted as interim CEO at the group's insurance subsidiary, New Ireland Assurance, as well as the former head of business banking, Mark Cunningham. While Mr Bannigan's new role remains unclear, sources said he was parachuted into the role of head of private banking last year, charged with executing what the bank viewed as a complex and difficult merger. The consolidation was concluded in September and has seen the bulk of BoI's private banking operations merging onto the platform of the Bank of Ireland Life division, headed by Mr O Murchu. Mr Bannigan was redeployed to the unit in April 2016 and sources said his appointment was part of a strategy to fold the relatively expensive operations of the private bank into the group. Bank of Ireland's wealth-management business oversees three main business lines: mass wealth, premier wealth and the more exclusive, high-net-worth division. Under the far-reaching overhaul - designed partly to streamline operations ahead of looming EU regulations, known as Mifid II - Mr O Murchu now has oversight of both the mass wealth management and high-net-worth elements. Bank of Ireland Life also holds compliance oversight of the premium-end banking division, although sources said this unit does not report into Mr O Murchu. The scale of the overhaul raises questions about Bank of Ireland's strategy for its private banking division. It is understood that the lender may purse more bolt-on acquisitions, similar to the Covestone Asset Management purchase in January. Mr Bannigan briefly led Bank of Scotland Ireland's retail business. His senior roles at Bank of Ireland include a stint as managing director of the group's Bristol & West subsidiary in the UK, which is regarded as one of the bank's most high-profile positions. Brian Caulfield, managing director, Draper Esprit, rings the bell at the IPO in Dublin, watched by Orla OGorman, head of equity at the Irish Stock Exchange Dublin- and London-listed venture-capital investor Draper Esprit has said it will target up to 75m (85m) of investment in seed funds across Europe over five years. The firm said this included commitments to invest in the latest funds of Seedcamp and Episode1 Ventures - two UK seed-fund platforms - and has backed crowdfunding companies Crowdcube and Seedrs. Last year, Draper Esprit raised 102m from investors in a stock market flotation and is positioning itself as a fund of funds venture capital house. Its backers include the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (Isif), UK-based investment managers Woodford Investment Management and Baillie Gifford, and China Huarong International Holdings. Its latest commitment is in addition to Draper Esprit's strategy to invest up to 100m a year in technology businesses at series A, B, and C+ rounds. "By partnering with the best seed funds, we can help them scale up their series A and B funding rounds more quickly, which in turn will accelerate growth for the most ambitious entrepreneurs," CEO Simon Cook said. He linked the decision to support UK funds to the fall-out from Brexit. "Post-Brexit, it is imperative that UK investors continue to have access to the best early-stage investment opportunities. Having established itself as a leading hub for technology entrepreneurs from all over the world, the UK needs to keep supporting all stages of venture funding." Last week, Brian Caulfield, who heads Draper Esprit's Irish arm, gave a cautious welcome to the to the new KEEP scheme for share-based remuneration scheme for SMEs, as announced in Budget 2018. The Second Amendment is one of the most frequently cited provisions in the American Constitution, but also one of the most poorly understood. The 27 words that constitute the Second Amendment seem to baffle modern Americans on both the left and right. Ironically, those on both ends of our contemporary political spectrum cast the Second Amendment as a barrier to robust gun regulation. Gun rights supporters mostly, but not exclusively, on the right seem to believe that the Second Amendment prohibits many forms of gun regulation. On the left, frustration with the lack of progress on modern gun control leads to periodic calls for the amendments repeal. Both of these beliefs ignore an irrefutable historical truth. The framers and adopters of the Second Amendment were generally ardent supporters of the idea of well-regulated liberty. Without strong governments and effective laws, they believed, liberty inevitably degenerated into licentiousness and eventually anarchy. Diligent students of history, particularly Roman history, the Federalists who wrote the Constitution realized that tyranny more often resulted from anarchy, not strong government. I have been researching and writing about the history of gun regulation and the Second Amendment for the past two decades. When I began this research, most people assumed that regulation was a relatively recent phenomenon, something associated with the rise of big government in the modern era. Actually, while the founding generation certainly esteemed the idea of an armed population, they were also ardent supporters of gun regulations. Consider these five categories of gun laws that the Founders endorsed. 1: Registration Today American gun rights advocates typically oppose any form of registration even though such schemes are common in every other industrial democracy and typically argue that registration violates the Second Amendment. This claim is also hard to square with the history of the nations founding. All of the colonies apart from Quaker-dominated Pennsylvania, the one colony in which religious pacifists blocked the creation of a militia enrolled local citizens, white men between the ages of 16-60 in state-regulated militias. The colonies and then the newly independent states kept track of these privately owned weapons required for militia service. Men could be fined if they reported to a muster without a well-maintained weapon in working condition. 2: Public carry The modern gun rights movement has aggressively pursued the goal of expanding the right to carry firearms in public. The American colonies inherited a variety of restrictions that evolved under English Common Law. In 18th-century England, armed travel was limited to a few well-defined occasions such as assisting justices of the peace and constables. Members of the upper classes also had a limited exception to travel with arms. Concealable weapons such as handguns were subject to even more stringent restrictions. The city of London banned public carry of these weapons entirely. The American Revolution did not sweep away English common law. In fact, most colonies adopted common law as it had been interpreted in the colonies prior to independence, including the ban on traveling armed in populated areas. Thus, there was no general right of armed travel when the Second Amendment was adopted, and certainly no right to travel with concealed weapons. Such a right first emerged in the United States in the slave South decades after the Second Amendment was adopted. The market revolution of the early 19th century made cheap and reliable hand guns readily available. Southern murder rates soared as a result. In other parts of the nation, the traditional English restrictions on traveling armed persisted with one important change. American law recognized an exception to this prohibition for individuals who had a good cause to fear an imminent threat. Nonetheless, by the end of the century, prohibiting public carry was the legal norm, not the exception. 3: Stand-your-ground laws Under traditional English common law, one had a duty to retreat, not stand your ground. Deadly force was justified only if no other alternative was possible. One had to retreat, until retreat was no longer possible, before killing an aggressor. The use of deadly force was justified only in the home, where retreat was not required under the so-called castle doctrine, or the idea that a mans home is his castle. The emergence of a more aggressive view of the right of self-defense in public, standing your ground, emerged slowly in the decades after the Civil War. 4: Safe storage laws Although some gun rights advocates attempt to demonize government power, it is important to recognize that one of the most important rights citizens enjoy is the freedom to elect representatives who can enact laws to promote health and public safety. This is the foundation for the idea of ordered liberty. The regulation of gun powder and firearms arises from an exercise of this basic liberty. In 1786, Boston acted on this legal principle, prohibiting the storage of a loaded firearm in any domestic dwelling in the city. Guns had to be kept unloaded, a practice that made sense since the black powder used in firearms in this period was corrosive. Loaded guns also posed a particular hazard in cases of fire because they might discharge and injure innocent bystanders and those fighting fires. 5: Loyalty oaths One of the most common claims one hears in the modern Second Amendment debate is the assertion that the Founders included this provision in the Constitution to make possible a right of revolution. But this claim, too, rests on a serious misunderstanding of the role the right to bear arms played in American constitutional theory. In fact, the Founders engaged in large-scale disarmament of the civilian population during the American Revolution. The right to bear arms was conditional on swearing a loyalty oath to the government. Individuals who refused to swear such an oath were disarmed. The notion that the Second Amendment was understood to protect a right to take up arms against the government is absurd. Indeed, the Constitution itself defines such an act as treason. Gun regulation and gun ownership have always existed side by side in American history. The Second Amendment poses no obstacle to enacting sensible gun laws. The failure to do so is not the Constitutions fault; it is ours. President Michael D Higgins inspects a guard of honour on the second day of his visit to Canberra. Photo: Maxwells Forklift supplier Combilift, healthcare-technology company Oneview and foreign-exchange specialist Fexco are among the 14 Irish companies to announce significant trade deals as President Michael D Higgins continues his State visit to Australia. Today, the President and the Tanaiste, Frances Fitzgerald, will arrive in Sydney to attend a business lunch as part of the Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland trade-and-investment programme. Enterprise Ireland aims to double Irish exports to Australia by 2020. The current mission is the largest programme of trade activity that it has undertaken for this region, with 55 clients flying to Australia to promote their products. They operate in nine industries, including digital technology, building, engineering and consumer products. The 14 Irish firms will work with Australian partners including Qantas, Telstra, the University of Sydney, Bunnings, and Sydney Children's Hospital. Enterprise Ireland said that of the 55 Irish companies participating, 27 were not yet export to the Australian market and 16 were heavily exposed to Brexit. CEO Julia Sinnamon said Ireland's trade links with Australia were even more important in the wake of Brexit. She said it was essential to ensure companies are 'Brexit-proof'. "It's about making sure we continue to reduce our dependence on the UK," she said. As part of its new campaign, Enterprise Ireland is using the slogan "the Irish advantage". Last year, more than 300 Enterprise Ireland clients clocked up exports of 256m to Australia. This marks an increase of 14pc when compared to figures from 2015. In fact, the Asia-Pacific region was the second-fastest-growing region for Enterprise Ireland-backed companies, with a growth of 16pc in 2016. Ms Sinnamon said that "an open mind and an agility and understanding of working with cultures" had helped Ireland prosper overseas. The Tanaiste arrived in Canberra on Monday. "Building awareness internationally of the Irish capability in key sectors is critically important, particularly in light of Brexit," she said. Since June 2016, her department has intensified its efforts to increase export market penetration and "diversification of Irish companies into alternative markets", she said. In numbers 300 The number of Enterprise Ireland backed companies exporting to Australia 55 The number of Irish firms travelling 14 The number of deals expected to be done Peter Bellew is to re-join Ryanair as Chief Operations Officer (COO), the airline has announced. Mr Bellew, who is currently the CEO of Malaysia Airlines, will take over responsibility for all Ryanairs flight operations, ground operations and engineering. In a statement today the airline said that Mr Bellew would have specific responsibility for pilot production, training and career development, with a mission to ensure that the pilot rostering failure which Ryanair suffered in early September will never be repeated. Mr. Bellew, who previously worked in Ryanair until 2014, latterly as director of flight operations, will join the Ryanair team in Dublin from Friday 1 December next. Welcoming the announcement, Ryanair CEO Michael OLeary said that Mr Bellow had unrivalled knowledge of the business model and how the company maintains "controlled growth." Commenting on his appointment, Mr Bellew said that he was "excited to return home to Ryanair" and take up the challenge to grow the operation sustainably. "I look forward to working with all the team and all the crews I know so well to further develop our growth to 600 aircraft over the next 6 years," Mr Bellew said. The US Supreme Court is to decide on an email dispute involving Microsoft's Irish facilities. The case, centering around a refusal by Microsoft to hand over Irish emails based on US warrants, could have long-term repercussions on international cloud computing and diplomatic relations. The unidentified person at the centre of the case, which arose on foot of a criminal enquiry, is a resident of Ireland. The dispute stems from a 2013 effort in the US to get emails that the government there says would show evidence of drug-trafficking. Officials obtained a search warrant, but Microsoft refused to hand over the information and took the matter to court. Microsoft resisted the warrant, arguing that local law should apply or legal uncertainty between jurisdictions would reign. Last year, a US federal court agreed with the company, which was joined by the Irish Government in an 'amicus' capacity. Microsoft has a significant data-centre presence in Ireland. However, the Trump administration says that the ruling hampers efforts to fight crime. "Under this opinion, hundreds - if not thousands - of investigations of crimes, ranging from terrorism, to child pornography, to fraud, are being, or will be, hampered by the government's inability to obtain electronic evidence," it argued in court papers. The US Department of Justice has successfully petitioned for the case to be heard by the US Supreme Court, which will hear arguments early next year and rule by June. Microsoft president and chief counsel, Brad Smith, said that going back on the earlier court's decision could have significant international implications. "If the decision were reversed, it would subject every person in the world to every other country's legal process," he said. "The email of a person who lives and works in Dublin would be subject to an American warrant issued by a US court just as an American would be subject to an Irish warrant. "Our customers tell us that they want to be governed by the laws of their own government and they deserve the certainty of knowing what laws govern their data." Mr Smith also said that new legal developments in the EU would soon create conditions where the US government's warrant requests of US companies would bring them into even sharper conflict with local laws in other countries. "Under the General Data Protection Regulation, it would be illegal for a company to bring customer data from Europe into the US in response to a unilateral US search warrant," he wrote. "This type of legal conflict isn't theoretical. We have declined to comply with similar legal orders in Brazil because they conflict with US law. "As a result, we have been fined and one of our local employees was criminally charged. "Neither people nor companies should be put in a position where complying with the laws of one country puts them in conflict with another under whose laws they must operate." Microsoft urged the court not to hear the case, saying the justices should leave it to Congress to update the 1986 law governing the issue and deal with the many complexities that surround worldwide electronic data storage. In addition to the Irish amicus brief, many technology companies have lined up behind Microsoft. Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Spanish stocks lagged behind a broadly-flat European market on Monday as the Catalonia crisis and a profit warning from renewables energy firm Siemens Gamesa weighed. Spain's main IBEX share index fell 0.7pc while the pan-European STOXX 600 benchmark added 0.01pc, staying near the four-month highs hit last week as optimism over global growth offset growing political worries. "Spanish stocks have come under pressure again", said CMC Markets analyst Michael Hewson after Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont failed to clarify whether he had declared independence from Spain last week, possibly paving the way for the central government to take control of the wealthy region. Spanish banks Caixa, Sabadell and BBVA took some of the heat, falling between 1.7pc and 2.8pc but Siemens Gamesa was the top loser, down 6.3pc after it warned on profit on Friday. Top faller on the STOXX was ConvaTec, which posted a dramatic 26.6pc collapse after the British medical-technology company cut its full-year organic revenue growth forecast. A sales warning also sent shares in Husqvarna down 4.9pc. At home, the ISEQ index was down a relatively small 0.54pc at 6813.52, despite significant commercial disruption associated with Hurricane Ophelia. Insurer FBD's shares were down almost 1pc. On the winners' side, France's Ipsen closed with a 6.1pc rise after reporting positive news on a liver cancer clinical trial. Germany's Hochtief rose 3.5pc after an upgrade to "buy" from Bankhaus Lampe on prospects of a potential acquisition of Spanish motorway firm Abertis in a takeover battle with Italy's Atlantia. British Business Secretary Greg Clark said on Tuesday he welcomed the deal for Airbus to buy a majority stake in Bombardier's C Series jetliner program, saying Britain would work closely with the firms to protect its interests. "There is some way to go before the deal is completed and our number one priority throughout will be the workforce in Northern Ireland," Mr Clark said in a statement, adding Britain would also continue to work with Canada to end Bombardier's costly trade dispute with Boeing. Ucoms mobile customers will benefit from the best internet roaming rate of 8 AMD/MB when travelling to Georgia, Egypt or the UAE Ameriabank Launches Google Pay and Google Wallet Support for Card Users in Armenia Karen Vardanyan donated 112 million drams for the medical equipment for National Center for Infectious Diseases. UCOM HAS INTRODUCED FUTURE NETWORK WI-FI 6E ROUTERS Google Ad 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 Google Ad Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol Armenia and Azerbaijan to do so without delay An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan". UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT 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 An Irish artist donated a piece to a star-studded art auction set up to raise funds for the Grenfell Tower tragedy - and it sold for twice the reserve. Patrick O' Reilly, best known for his lifesize bronze bears, donated a sculpture called 'Life Goes On' alongside works by other well-known artists including Anish Kapoor, Anthony Gormley, Wolfgang Tillman, Tracey Emin, Anthony Gormley, Yinka Shonibare, Sarah Lucas and many others. The auction took place last night at Sotheby's in London and O'Reilly's work, measuring 50cm by 60cm, achieved in excess of the double the reserve. In total, 31 lots were up for sale at the invitation only event, though there were telephone and internet bidders. The auction raised just shy of 2m (2.2m) and the proceeds of the sale will be divided up equally among the surviving families by the Ruby Portobello Trust, a North Kensingtonbased charity which has been closely supporting the Grenfell residents since the fire in June. Celebrated film producer Hamish McAlpine and art consultant Katie Heller were the driving-forces behind Art for Grenfell and over the past few months were working with the artists to source works for the sale. They said: "The edifice of Grenfell Tower stands as a reminder of the terrible failure of society to look after its poorest people. "No one should have to endure the terrible trauma, these people have endured. "It is only right that we should do all we can to help in any way that we can and the artists have responded with immense generosity and goodwill." Patrick OReilly added: "It is a great honour for me to donate a piece of my work to such a worthy cause. All of us were touched as we watched the horror of the Grenfell Fire tragedy unfold. I hope the auction will help in some small way to ease the pain of the survivors." A still from mobile phone footage showing the statue being loaded into a van Gardai have recovered the stolen bronze Mother-and-Child statue that was spirited away by thieves in Finglas during Storm Ophelia. Gardai made the find of the treasured public work of art tonight following a widespread publicity campaign by local community leaders. "The statue was found in a disused shed in a field in North Finglas," said a Garda Press Office spokesman tonight. The public work-of-art was stolen from its plinth at Finglas Place in Finglas in Dublin during the storm on Monday. A falling branch had dislodged the statue from the plinth and three men were seen loading it into the back of a silver van less than an hour later. It is the statue of a woman playfully holding her child in the air. Local Fine Gael TD Noel Rock was given a video of the men at the van which he passed on to the gardai in Finglas. Speaking tonight, Deputy Rock said: "I'm delighted it's been found in good condition. The theft had the community up in arms. The community rallied around and were giving information to the gardai all day." Deputy Rock had condemned the theft, stating the statue was a treasured work of art in Finglas and he expressed the hope that the statue would be returned to the community. "Its disgraceful behaviour on a day when people are looking out for each other, while these people are only looking out for themselves," he said. It was widely feared that the valuable bronze statue would be melted down by unscrupulous metal merchants for its scrap value. Local Fianna Fail Cllr Paul McAuliffe had said that the work-of-art was created by sculptor Elizabeth McLaughlin more than 20 years ago when it was commissioned to be displayed beside the new Finglas By-Pass. "I believe that 1pc of National Roads Authority spending on new roads had to go on works of art. This was placed at the bypass around 1996. "Around 2011, when the Finglas Tidy Towns and other local groups were helping to upgrade the environment in Finglas, this statue was moved into a more central location," said Cllr McAuliffe. "Its worth 10 times more to the community than its scrap value, said the local councillor. An appeal is being sought against a judgment permitting tech giant Apple to develop the first phase of a planned 850m data centre in Co Galway, the High Court was told on Tuesday. The permission to appeal application - which only the High Court can grant - will be heard on October 25 but may not conclude then and may have to resume later. Mr Justice Paul McDermott, in separate judgments last Thursday, rejected two judicial review challenges to An Bord Pleanalas August 2016 permission for a data hall at Derrydonnell, Athenry, the first of eight such halls Apple may build over a 15 year period. The first challenge was by local residents Sinead Fitzpatrick and Allan Daly, of Lisheenkyle, Athenry, whose concerns included about the potential environmental impact of the entire development, particularly about greenhouse gas emissions. The judge found the Board and its inspector considered and assessed the potential environmental impact of the overall Apple "masterplan" and disagreed the Board was required to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the entire proposed project. Their counsel Oisin Collins Bl said on Tuesday his clients do intend to seek a certificate for leave to appeal. When the judge said he was ready to hear arguments concerning the application, counsel said he wanted time to consider the matter. Nuala Butler SC, for the board, said Mr Collins should outline within a week the point of law he intends to raise after which her side would provide written submissions. The judge said he would hear the matter on October 25 and if it did not conclude by 10.45am that day, he would hear the remaining arguments on a later date. In his judgment on the second case, by Brian McDonagh, Ballymount Cross Business Park, Dublin, he found Mr McDonagh lacked the necessary legal standing to challenge the permission as he does not live close to the site and had not participated in the planning process. Mr McDonagh should have disclosed at an early stage he was a director and shareholder of Ecologic Data Centre Ltd which had secured permission for a data centre on a Co Wicklow site considered as an alternative location for the Apple development, the judge added. Mr McDonagh said on Tuesday he has still not decided whether or not to seek leave to appeal. The judge said he would list his case also for October 25. A district court trial of a Dublin beautician accused of unlawfully administering botox like treatments is to be referred to the High Court to decide if an alleged confession is admissible evidence. Following legal argument at her non-jury Dublin District Court trial, Judge John Brennan adjourned the case for four weeks. Prosecutions and defence lawyers are to draft a document seeking clarification from the High Court in a procedure known as a consultive case stated. Anne Rossi, who runs the Anne Rossi Clinic, at Vernon Avenue, Clontarf, Dublin 3, is being prosecuted by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) on 18 counts under the Irish Medicines Board Act. The HPRA is the regulatory body for prescription medicines in Ireland. She has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. The court heard that the term botox, was a brand and trademarked but not a product featured in the charges, however, it was used as a generic term for similar products which contain the same active ingredient Botulinum Toxin A. HPRA inspector Niall McCarthy has told the trial he was granted a search warrant and went to Ms Rossis home on the Howth Road in Raheny, Dublin on the morning of February 19 last year. Invoices from a health products supplier for Dysport were found. She told him that there was Dysport at her business premises. The Anne Rossi Clinic, at Vernon Avenue was also inspected. Dysport was found in a fridge and Ms Rossi, a former psychiatric nurse, was interviewed under caution and made admissions, the trial heard. In cross-examination with defence counsel Breffni Gordon he agreed he did not invoke a power allowing a person on the premises to provide assistance or information. He said he did ask her questions and cautioned her and she was relaxed and very co-operative. He agreed that no reference was made to her being allowed consult with a solicitor. He did not recall telling her before they left her house before going to the salon that everything would be okay. He said it did not cross his mind that someone should advise her to speak to a solicitor. The High Court will be asked if the alleged confession should be deemed admissible. The HPRA was not granted a certificate as set out in the Irish Medicines Board Act for the products seized but instead brought them to the manufacturer in the UK for confirmation. The issue on whether a certificate was mandatory will also be referred to the High Court for clarification. A Dysport box, with three vials, one empty, one in liquid form and another with powder, were seized to be sent for analysis. Ms Rossi was not left a sample that she could test independently because there was not enough, the trial heard. On later dates in 2016 she was invited along with her solicitor to come and make a statement but that offer was not taken up. Earlier, Mr McCarthy said that during the interview she admitted she had administered botox like treatments using the product Dysport and had been doing so for the previous year. In her statement she said she injected customers after showing them areas which needed botox treatment costing about 250 to 300, the trial heard. He said Ms Rossi told him that I knew I was on a sticky wicket for the last year or so. He said she admitted she was aware that the product was subject to prescription control. The HPRA inspector said that she said in her interview that she had been trying to get a doctor to administer the treatment at her clinic but could not get one. The case relates to the a botox-like product called Dysport which contains the prescription only substance Botulinum Toxin A. It was the prosecution case that it was imported into the State without permission and administered to customers by injection at Ms Rossis clinic. Ronan Kennedy BL, prosecuting, said it must be done by a doctor or a pharmacist. Three women had told the court earlier that they had received the botox treatments in 2014 and 2015 at her clinic from Ms Rossi and no doctor was present. Dr Muckesh Lalloo a skin surgeon specialist, who works out of a HSE clinic at Blanchardstown Primary Care Centre in Dublin said he reported the Anne Rossi clinic to the HPRA after a patient came to him with one brow lower than the other which he said was consistent with inexpert administration of Botulinum Toxin A which has a freezing effect. Dr Katherine Mulrooney told the court from 2008 to 2012 she had an arrangement with the Anne Rossi Clinic where she would see a number of patients on a given day and administer Botulinum Toxin A, in either Dysport or Botox. She said she brought the substances with her and they have to be administered by a medicinal practitioner such as a doctor. She also provided after-care if necessary at her main clinic. Dr Mulrooney was shown six copies of orders allegedly emailed from the Anne Rossi Clinic in 2014 to a UK based supplier of health care cosmetic products with orders for boxes of Dysport. She agreed they had her medical registration number and a signature in her name. However, she said that it was not her signature and she had not done any work for the Anne Rossi Clinic since 2012. She had not given any permission for the use of her medical registration number, she said. It is alleged that from November 20, 2014 until January 27, 2015 while not being a pharmacist Ms Rossi supplied a medicinal product without a prescription. The product named Dysport contains the prescription only substance Botulinum Toxin A. It is also alleged that on the same dates she unlawfully placed the product on the market without authorisation. It is also alleged that on or about November 25, 2014 and February 10, 2015, she imported the medicinal product into the State without the HPRA's authorisation. Dysport is a Botox-like product used in various treatments but most popular for its anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing signs effects. A district court conviction for the charges can result in a fine and, or a jail sentence of up to one year. A retired surgeon has gone on trial accused of indecently assaulting six males at a hospital in Louth. Dr Michael Shine (85) is alleged to have committed the offences at Our Lady of Lourdes hospital in Drogheda and a clinic in Drogheda on dates between 1964 and 1991. A 17-YEAR-old youth described as a risk to the community, and particularly to women, should be placed in secure accommodation outside the jurisdiction because placements in similar accommodation here have so far failed, the High Court heard. The youth had to be placed in foster care due to violence and drug/alcohol abuse in his own home. But when this ultimately proved unsuccessful, he then had to be admitted to the full care of the Child and Family Agency (CFA). He is now so out of control, and living at a non-secure facility in Dublin which he "treats as a hostel", that Shane Costelloe SC, for his guardian, was granted leave by the High Court to serve proceedings on the CFA requiring it to respond to the guardian's request that a secure place be found for him outside the jurisdiction. He is in a sexual relationship with a much older woman, who is the mother of a woman he had previously been in a relationship with, counsel said. There are also concerns about his hypersexual behaviour and about text and imagery messaging he engages in. Mr Justice Charles Meenan, who granted Mr Costelloe, with Donal O'Muircheartaigh BL, the leave order sought said the case could come back next week because of its urgency. Mr Costelloe told the judge it was not unusual for a foster child to have to be placed in the full care of the CFA. Regrettably in this case, because of the manner in which he was presenting, a psychologist drew up a 40-page report which stated his behaviour was not just "conduct disorder" but he lacked an ability to empathise and was not just a danger to himself, "but to the community at large, and particularly to women". Counsel said an application was made to a CFA "special admissions and discharge committee" to see if he could be placed in one of the country's two secure centres, in Dublin and Limerick. But on three occasions, that committee refused because he would be a threat to staff of those centres. An ad hoc placement was found at a facility run by a well-known organisation but that broke down because of his drug abuse and hypersexual behaviour, counsel said. A specially built placement, with specially appointed staff, where there was just one other child, was next provided, but within a month that had also broken down with staff refusing to work with him. The CFA then inquired into two facilities in Scotland but they did not have any accommodation available. The CFA then said it was not going to look at any other secure facilities outside the jurisdiction, counsel said. His guardian believes he needs to be put in an outside jurisdiction secure facility and, despite not wanting to bring High Court proceedings and notifying the CFA of those proceedings, there had been no option left but to do so, counsel said. Mr Costelloe said he hoped that once the CFA responds to the proceedings seeking that the out-of-jurisdiction option be looked at that the case would not have to go to hearing. Mr Justice Meenan, who described it as an "alarming and distressing case", said it was clear all the experts believed he was a danger to himself and the community and that the appropriate placement was outside the jurisdiction. A fallen tree on Northbrook Road, Ranelagh, which was blown over during Storm Ophelia. 16/9/17 Gardai, the coastguard and the RNLI helicopter at Blackrock in Co Louth where windsurfers were surfing during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurrricane Opelia Spray splashes over a car at the Point in Westport, Co. Mayo as Storm Ophelia batters the country. Photo : Keith Heneghan / Phocus. Gardai, and Dundalk fire brigade attend the scene of an accident at Ravensdale outside Dundalk where a fallen tree struck a car during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron A fallen tree struck at Thistle cross outside Dundalk during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron Gardai, and Dundalk fire brigade attend the scene of an accident at Ravensdale outside Dundalk where a fallen tree struck a car during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron 16/10/2017 Ophelia arriving in Galway. Quick walk on the prom ahead of the Hurricane . Photo:Andrew Downes Tributes have been paid to three victims who lost their lives in Storm Ophelia related incidents: Fintan Goss, Michael Pyke and Clare ONeill Tributes have been paid to the three victims of Storm Ophelia as the clean-up operation commences today. The three victims were killed in separate counties following tragic incidents directly linked to the strongest storm to strike Ireland in more than 50 years. The public's adherence to warnings to remain indoors is credited with preventing further loss of life during the storm. Trees that were hundreds of years old slammed onto roadways while everyday objects became projectile missiles in the Hurricane force gusts. The first fatality occurred at approximately 11.40am outside Aglish village, Co Waterford. Clare ONeill (58) died after the car she was driving was struck by a tree. She was due to celebrate her 59th birthday on Tuesday October 17. Expand Close Clare O'Neill who was killed in a car accident during storm Ophelia / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Clare O'Neill who was killed in a car accident during storm Ophelia Ms ONeills mother, who is in her 70s, was a passenger in the car and was injured during the incident and was transferred to Waterford Regional Hospital. Her injuries have been described as non-life threatening. Clare ONeill worked as an oncology nurse for over three decades and recently worked as Cancer Support Co-Ordinator with the Cork ARC Cancer Support House. She was a very jolly woman, very helpful, local shopkeeper Richard Hurley said. Its a big shock, its a miserable morning, a young woman like that (dying) in such a tragic accident. The second tragic death caused by Ophelia occurred at around 12.30pm in Cahir, Co Tipperary. Expand Close Michael Pyke, who was killed during storm Ophelia / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Michael Pyke, who was killed during storm Ophelia Local man Michael Pyke (31) was attempting to clear a fallen tree with a chainsaw when the tragedy occurred. Gardai believe that Mr Pyke was attempting to move the tree on the Cahir to Ardfinnan road, when another tree collapsed and struck him. Emergency services were called but Mr Pyke was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was later removed to Clonmel Hospital. Meanwhile, at approximately 2.45pm a serious road traffic collision occurred in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk, Co Louth. Fintan Goss, who was aged in his 30s, was the driver of a vehicle when it was struck by a tree. It is believed the married father-of-two had been travelling home early from work due to the storm when tragedy struck. Mr Goss lived in Ravensdale with his wife and children. Expand Close Fintan Goss has been named locally as the man who died when a tree hit his car earlier in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fintan Goss has been named locally as the man who died when a tree hit his car earlier in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk. They were supporters of Fine Gael and last night the chairperson of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr John McGahon (FG) said: This is an absolute tragedy. Fintan and the Goss family are extremely well regarded in the community. He will be greatly missed by his friends, family and the local community in Ravensdale. Our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar extended his sympathies to the families of those killed. President Michael D Higgins also extended his sympathies to the families who lost loved ones during hurricane Ophelia. Speaking as he continued his State Visit of Australia President Higgins said; "My heart goes out those who have lost loved ones and what they must be suffering". The President also acknowledged that the extent of the destruction the storm caused will continue to emerge today. "Some people will have been badly affected by flooding, others will have to reconstruct houses," he said. "I hope that once again that people will come to gather in a spirit of cooperation." How did Ophelia affect you? Send your comments and pictures to contact@independent.ie. Remember to stay safe Really, Richard Bruton? A second day off for all schools, right across the country? Well, whatever about Ophelia, Im surprised the roofs of houses right across Ireland were not lifted by the collective whoops of elated children facing into a second blissful day of slacking on the sofa watching telly (if they were lucky enough to be living in homes that still have electricity). Many of their parents, however, will have been rather less delighted to hear the Minister for Education announce, midway through yesterday afternoon, that a decision had been taken to close all schools today, irrespective of their location and of the level of damage in their area. Did the Government realise just how disruptive this would be for families right across Ireland? Note to Richard Bruton: most parents work outside the home these days and employers arent all that thrilled when staff stay home two days running. Clearly this decision makes nothing but sense for some schools. In Cork, the poor old Douglas Community School had the roof blown off its gym in spectacular fashion. It hardly bears thinking about what might have happened had there been children in the building, and its clear the management of that school - and others like it - will need time to assess damage and make repairs before having to take responsibility for hundreds of teenagers again. Read More But Douglas Community is just one of thousands of schools. And for every school faced with a significant structural challenge after the storms, there are surely at least a dozen or more that will have weathered the storms with no significant damage at all. Clearly identifying these schools would have been an insurmountable task for the Department of Education in the time it had to reach a decision. But could the schools themselves not have been allowed to make a call on whether or not to open? Could we not have assumed they would act with caution? The blanket closure decision was made, Bruton said, in the interests of children - and this is an explanation that is hard to challenge. Naturally we all want our children to be safe, not matter how inconvenient it may be to keep them that way. Perhaps the Department of Education is on a damage limitation exercise after waiting rather inexplicably until after most kids bedtimes on Sunday - and this was when an actual hurricane was pending - to let parents know that the schools wouldnt open the following day. The confusion did nobody any favours. Read More Perhaps it felt it would be politic to be a tad more decisive on Day 2 of the general weather crisis. Hence the early warning. It may be good PR but its no great help to the hundreds of thousands of parents left scrambling to make some kind of arrangements for their kids for a second 24-hour period, in the full knowledge that it may be wholly unnecessary. Spare a thought in particular for homes that the storm has left without electricity, or - worse still - those left without power or water. No Netflix, no hot food, no bathtime and no lights? Those parents must have been counting the minutes until the schools came back on stream. Roll on tomorrow. Ucoms mobile customers will benefit from the best internet roaming rate of 8 AMD/MB when travelling to Georgia, Egypt or the UAE Ameriabank Launches Google Pay and Google Wallet Support for Card Users in Armenia Karen Vardanyan donated 112 million drams for the medical equipment for National Center for Infectious Diseases. 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 Google Ad Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol Armenia and Azerbaijan to do so without delay An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan". UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT 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 Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy said he was "furious" to see people ignore the warnings of emergency services and do activities like swimming and wind-surfing. Despite Met Eireann issuing a nationwide Status Red warning as ex-Hurricane Ophelia battered the country yesterday, some people still ventured to beaches and piers. As footage emerged of people swimming in choppy waters, the Coast Guard responded to several call-outs and were forced to issue repeated warnings pleading with the public to stay safe. Fine Gael representative Murphy said that he was angry to see some people ignore expert advice. Expand Close DONEGAL, IRELAND - OCTOBER 16: A man takes a selfie with his smartphone during Hurricane Ophelia at Killybegs harbour on October 16, 2017 in Donegal, Ireland. The hurricane hit the north west coast of Ireland early this afternoon with winds in excess of 80mph. The Irish government have issued a red weather warning whilst amber weather warnings remain in place for Northern Ireland and parts of Wales. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp DONEGAL, IRELAND - OCTOBER 16: A man takes a selfie with his smartphone during Hurricane Ophelia at Killybegs harbour on October 16, 2017 in Donegal, Ireland. The hurricane hit the north west coast of Ireland early this afternoon with winds in excess of 80mph. The Irish government have issued a red weather warning whilst amber weather warnings remain in place for Northern Ireland and parts of Wales. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) He told Newstalk Breakfast: "Personally that made me furious, we were in here trying to co-ordinate the emergency response, we were in here doing everything we could to protect people from the dangers this storm was posing. "So the idea that people would knowingly put their own lives at risk, and at the same time the lives of our emergency rescue services who were going to have to help those people, it really wasn't something that we were happy with when we were trying to deal with the rest of the country." There have been some calls for people who knowingly put their lives and those of emergency service personnel at risk to be sanctioned, which Murphy said he would be in favour of. He said: "Of course there were people asking what kind of sanctions there could be for these people. "There are going to be future weather events and while we have to coordinate an emergency response we have to make people see that they are putting other people's lives at risk and they are tying up the emergency services. "A penalty would be something that I would be happy to consider given what we saw yesterday during a crisis that we were trying to manage." Expand Close City council workers begin the clean up begins following Storm Ophelia, Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp City council workers begin the clean up begins following Storm Ophelia, Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Read More He also defended the Government's decision to keep all schools closed again today. He said: "Dublin wasn't as badly hit as other parts of the country but it was still badly damaged, we can see that from the photos of large trees fallen. "Other parts of the country were worse hit and there will be issues today like trees blocking roads, fallen electricity wires and structural damage to schools. "We have to put child safety first, while the storm was still raging outside we felt it was important to put child safety first. "That was foremost on our minds." A still from mobile phone footage showing the statue being loaded into a van A statue of the Virgin Mary knocked down by a fallen tree in Dublin was later allegedly stolen by a group of men with a van. The Mother and Child statue was taken from its plinth in Finglas village in Dublin on Monday afternoon after a tree fell, loosening the statue on its plinth. Fianna Fail councillor Paul McAuliffe told Independent.ie the community is "disgusted" by the theft. The statue, by artist Elizabeth McLaughlin, has been a landmark in the Finglas area since 1996 and takes pride of place in the community. Witnesses in the neighbourhood claimed they saw three men taking the statue, "before putting it into the back of a grey van." The alleged theft occurred as Storm Ophelia wreaked havoc in the area. "I reported the fallen tree to the council and they said they'd get to it later in the day," Cllr McAuliffe said. "I wrote it up on Facebook, just letting people know so they didn't have to worry about it. "Then I started getting reports that the statue had been taken." Cllr McAuliffe said gardai have been informed of the bronze statue's theft, but he understands it is not currently a priority as emergency services are tending to the aftermath of Ophelia. "I would just plead with whoever has the statue to bring it back," he said. "Whatever monetary value it is worth to you, it is worth 10 times that to the community in sentamentality. "This is a statue that the community had moved so it could be appreciated by the whole village, and have cared for it since." Cllr McAuliffe said he initially hoped the statue would be discovered under the fallen trees, but a colleague has since visited the area and confirmed its absence. "While everyone else is looking after each other, people are taking advantage of the community," he said. Meanwhile, Fine Gael TD for Dublin North West Noel Rock has also described the alleged robbery of the Mother and Child statue in Finglas village as "despicable". He is urging anyone with information relating to the incident to contact Gardai. "A number of men were seen putting the statue into a vehicle, though Dublin City Council has stated that the men were not part of a Council work crew," Mr Rock said. "The report that this statue, which takes pride of place in Finglas village, has been potentially stolen concerns me greatly. Especially during a period where people across the country were looking out for themselves, their families and their communities; it pains me to imagine that people have potentially taken advantage of this. "There is of course the possibility that this was the act of a Good Samaritan who saw the statue knocked off its base and decided to retrieve it for safe keeping - however it remains a mystery as to why they wouldn't inform the owners of the statue in that case." Gardai are investigating the matter. Poolbeg Lighthouse on the great South Wall during Storm Ophelia, Dublin and inset, Joe Duffy People who ignored a status red weather warning to go swimming yesterday have been blasted by broadcaster Joe Duffy, who asked: "Why should you be exempt?" A woman who went swimming in Sandycove Harbour, Dublin yesterday contacted RTE's Radio 1 Liveline and described the conditions as "balmy". Joe Duffy hit back at her comments, saying: "I don't care if there was Radox in the water yesterday...the fact of the matter is there was a status red warning and nobody should have been swimming anywhere. "When the Government declares a red weather alert for the island and specifically says people shouldn't go near the water, what renders you exempt? Why are you above the weather warning?" Read More The woman, who condemned those jumping into the sea in Salthill, Co Galway yesterday, defended her actions as she is regular swimmer and said the conditions in Dublin weren't "near as bad" as the west. "We were at home, snug as bugs by 1pm. There were people there swimming safely and we totally respect those working in the emergency services," she said. Joe then asked her "Could you not have sacrificed your swim", to which she responded "No, I couldn't have sacrificed my swim". A number of people have hit out at those who ignored the warnings of emergency services yesterday. The sister of heroic Coast Guard Rescue 116 Captain Dara Fitzpatrick described them as "reckless idiots" . The crew of Rescue 116 - Dara Fitzpatrick, Mark Duffy, Ciaran Smith and Paul Orsmby - all lost their lives when their helicopter crashed off the coast of Co Mayo in March. Dara's sister Niamh has criticised those who put themselves at risk yesterday. She Tweeted: "Regarding those reckless idiots, now I think even if it was their mother/sister/brother/father in rescue crews it might not stop them. Disgusted." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured as he traverses a ditch after he saw first hand the work of ESB network crews who were repairing damaged powerlines at Drumlara, between Kilcock and Summerhill Co Meath. Picture Credit : Frank McGrath Taoiseach Leo Varadkar waded through the mud of a County Meath field to thank ESB Networks crews for restoring electricity to blacked out communities. In a pair of black wellingtons and a helmet, the Taoiseach watched as work crews lifted fallen power lines from a sodden field in the town of Drumlargan, near Kilcock. Speaking to reporters at a muddy gateway, he paid tribute to the huge nationwide repair operation underway in the wake of Storm Ophelia. "I wanted to see with my own eyes the scale of the damage and witness the phenomenal work that is being done by ESB staff, staff of local authorities, defence forces, and others," he said. Expand Close Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured after seeing the work of ESB network crews who were repairing damaged powerlines at Drumlara, between Kilcock and Summerhill Co Meath. Picture Credit : Frank McGrath / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured after seeing the work of ESB network crews who were repairing damaged powerlines at Drumlara, between Kilcock and Summerhill Co Meath. Picture Credit : Frank McGrath "More than half of people who lost power have had their power restored. The vast majority of people will have power restored in the next three to four days," he said. He said it was possible some people might remain without power for up to eight days. He was briefed at the scene by Pat O'Doherty, chief executive of the electricity company, and John McManus, regional operations manager. Mr Varadkar said help was on the way for Ireland from abroad. "A lot of extra support is coming in. Once the repairs are done in Scotland and England and France, people will be coming in from those jurisdictions to help out our crews. And the Defence Forces are helping out as well," he said. "Today, is very much about the clean up and repairs," he said. He denied that international workers could have been brought in earlier as those workers were needed in their own countries. The storm only became a national red warning at 1pm on Sunday, he said. He was asked whether there should be a new criminal offence covering people who defy public warnings and conduct dangerous activities near or on water at a time of weather alerts. Expand Close Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured with Pat O Doherty of ESB Networks as they watch the work of crews who were repairing damaged powerlines at Drumlara, between Kilcock and Summerhill Co Meath. Picture Credit : Frank McGrath / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured with Pat O Doherty of ESB Networks as they watch the work of crews who were repairing damaged powerlines at Drumlara, between Kilcock and Summerhill Co Meath. Picture Credit : Frank McGrath "I think it is something that merits consideration. People who disobeyed the red alert travel warnings yesterday did not just put themselves at risk, they also put at risk the lives of other people, but particularly our emergency services," he said. "But I'd never rush into creating a new crime. It is something we would have to consider and I would suggest in the Dail we look at it on an all party basis," he said. Regarding the repairs, he said some 400,000 homes lost power supplies and more than half of those were restored. "Everyone will know tomorrow when they are going to be reconnected," he said. Expand Close Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured after seeing the work of ESB network crews who were repairing damaged powerlines at Drumlara, between Kilcock and Summerhill Co Meath. Picture Credit : Frank McGrath / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured after seeing the work of ESB network crews who were repairing damaged powerlines at Drumlara, between Kilcock and Summerhill Co Meath. Picture Credit : Frank McGrath Ireland did not suffer sufficiently to qualify for special EU funds for repairs. In terms of the cost of the damage, he said "We don't know yet. When it comes to the ESB, they have significant resources. Local authorities will need further assistance and they will get additional funds for the clean up. "Unlike flooding, though, there doesn't appear to be significant damage to the roads. Previous weather events meant the big damage was to roads and the need to repair roads and flood defences so actually it may turn out to be the case the cost of carrying out all the repairs will not be as great as feared yesterday," he said. 'There was a lot of anger that the lives of first responders were put at risk' - Micheal Martin IT should be illegal to disobey the safety authorities and put rescue personnel at risk during emergencies like Storm Ophelia, Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has said. The Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, led tributes to the emergency services during a special debate on the aftermath of the storm. Mr Varadkar also led expressions of sympathy from all parties and Independent TDs to the memory of the three people who died in Mondays storm, Claire ONeill, Fintan Goss and Michael Pyke. The Fianna Fail leader said all parties should cooperate in bringing in all legislation to prevent people taking undue risks against safety advice. He referred to several incidents during the storm. Read More There was a lot of anger that the lives of first responders were put at risk, Mr Martin said. Paying tribute to the response, Mr Martin urged a national census of dangerous trees and he also warned that the storm was a reminder to Ireland to increase efforts to deal with global warming. Its a reminder that the Atlantic is warming and the frequency and the intensity of storms such as this will increase, the Fianna Fail leader added. Read More The Taoiseach said he shared the dismay of people about those who put emergency services personnel at risk by foolish actions. He said it was the worst storm in recent years to be dealt with by the emergency services. Mr Varadkar said 6,700 people and contractors were now working on a clear-up and restoring services like power. He said extra power crews, from the North, Britain and France, were trying to restore electricity as soon as possible. There were expressions of sympathy to bereaved families from Mary Lou McDonald of Sinn Fein, Labour leader, Brendan Howlin, and Michael Healy-Rae from the Rural Independent Alliance. Paying tribute to the emergency services, Mr Howlin said there must be more clarity for workers and employers about what happens when a national red alert is triggered. The Taoiseach said that it was Irelands first ever national red alert and he agreed there must be more clarity on procedures for workers in the private sector especially. Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurricane Opelia Clare O'Neill who was killed in a car accident during storm Ophelia Fintan Goss has been named locally as the man who died when a tree hit his car earlier in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk. Tributes have been paid to three victims who lost their lives in Storm Ophelia related incidents: Fintan Goss, Michael Pyke and Clare ONeill Spray splashes over a car at the Point in Westport, Co. Mayo as Storm Ophelia batters the country. Photo : Keith Heneghan / Phocus. Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurrricane Opelia Gardai, and Dundalk fire brigade attend the scene of an accident at Ravensdale outside Dundalk where a fallen tree struck a car during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurricane Ophelia Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin. As the nation comes to terms with the devastation caused by Storm Ophelia, it has been announced that a second storm is to hit Ireland this weekend. 'Storm Brian' is to pass through Ireland later this week bringing strong winds and rain. Three people lost their lives in Storm Ophelia, which left a trail of destruction in its path across the country. ESB Networks crews are working around the country to restore power to hundreds of thousands of customers, but warned that it could take up to 10 days before power is restored to all homes. Read More Crews are expecting assistance to be flown in from England and Scotland on Wednesday to help with the massive power outages. Met Eireann forecaster John Eagleton told Independent.ie that; "at the moment, Storm Brian is nothing to worry about here in Ireland". "It's a moving depression rather than a hurricane. It's moving south and will bring a lot of rain and strong winds. I don't think it will hit Ireland as hard as it will hit the UK." Storm Brian is expected to hit on Friday as it will be wet and windy, and the weather will gradually move south-east. Saturday and Sunday will also see a lot of heavy rain and strong winds as Storm Brian passes through Ireland. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Hurricane Ophelia hits the coast of Mayo today Photo: Paul Mealey Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn after Hurrricane Opelia Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin. Hurricane Ophelia hits the coast of Mayo today Photo: Paul Mealey Ivana Rubisova and David Hucko on holidays from Slovakia struggle to make it up the hill from the beach as Storm Ophelia hit Lahinch Coast line of County Clare as it moved across the west of Ireland this evening. Photo: Brian Arthur Hurricane Ophelia hitting Fenit in County Kerry. Photo:Mark Condren Trees down near Dungarvan Co. Waterford. Picture: Patrick Browne Clyde Road, Dublin 4. Photo: Doug.ie A fallen tree on Northbrook Road, Ranelagh, which was blown over during Hurricane Ophelia. Photo: Tony Gavin Tree damage in Clonmel after Hurricane Ophelia hit the Tipperary town. Photo: Mark Condren / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Hurricane Ophelia hits the coast of Mayo today Photo: Paul Mealey Maynooth Geography Professor John Sweeney told RTE Radio One that Storm Brian won't be a "big beast". "Tropical storm Philippe has already formed in the Atlantic after Ophelia. "Brian will be the next one in the sequence and by the weekend it does look like it's turning unsettled again but it's all relative. We won't have the same occurrence as Ophelia hopefully for a very long time. We're back to the normal winter storms climate, not the kind of big beast we say yesterday." Tomorrow, there will be bright with sunny spells, with some showery bursts of rain. Read More The temperatures of tomorrow will be much like today, 12 to 14 degrees It will be cool, changeable and unsettled. On Thursday, it will be wet and windy and it looks to stay wet for most of the day, with some spot flooding. Angus Bourke from Castlebar, Co. Mayo a member of Mayo Sailing Club preparaing his boat at Rosmoney, Westport, Co. Mayo before Storm Ophelia. Photo : Keith Heneghan / Phocus. Pictured getting ready for hurricane Ophelia at Courtmacsherry Bay West Cork was Martin Galvin and his son Adam. Their seaside home at Lobster Cottage sits in Courtmacsherry Bay with County Cork expected to be among the worst effected counties. Picture Denis Boyle A surfer is seen on rough water in the Atlantic in an area where the tide should be out in the County Clare town of Lahinch, Ireland October 15, 2017. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne A tree blocks the road at Killbritain Co Cork. Picture Denis Boyle Walkers in Clontarf pictured this afternoon as Hurricane Ophelia hits the country..Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin. 16/10/2017 Ophelia arriving in Galway. Quick walk on the prom ahead of the Hurricane . Photo:Andrew Downes A fallen tree on Northbrook Road, Ranelagh, which was blown over during Storm Ophelia. A fallen tree on Northbrook Road, Ranelagh, which was blown over during Storm Ophelia. A fallen tree on Northbrook Road, Ranelagh, which was blown over during Storm Ophelia. 16/9/17 Gardai, the coastguard and the RNLI helicopter at Blackrock in Co Louth where windsurfers were surfing during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron A fallen tree struck at Thistle cross outside Dundalk during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron Gardai, and Dundalk fire brigade attend the scene of an accident at Ravensdale outside Dundalk where a fallen tree struck a car during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron Gardai, and Dundalk fire brigade attend the scene of an accident at Ravensdale outside Dundalk where a fallen tree struck a car during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurrricane Opelia Spray splashes over a car at the Point in Westport, Co. Mayo as Storm Ophelia batters the country. Photo : Keith Heneghan / Phocus. Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurricane Opelia Clare O'Neill who was killed in a car accident during storm Ophelia Michael Pyke, who was killed during storm Ophelia Fintan Goss has been named locally as the man who died when a tree hit his car earlier in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk. Michael Pyke, who was killed during storm Ophelia and Clare O'Neill who was killed in a car accident during storm Ophelia Tributes have been paid to three victims who lost their lives in Storm Ophelia related incidents: Fintan Goss, Michael Pyke and Clare ONeill Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurricane Ophelia Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin. A fallen tree blocks the R292 at Culleenamore, Strandhill, Co. Sligo. Photo: James Connolly Cork was among the counties worst affected by Storm Ophelia (Picture: Mark Condren) Ten of thousands of people are still without electricity or water following devastation caused by Storm Ophelia. Irish Water has said there are 48,000 customers still without water following damage caused by the extreme weather. Cork and Waterford are the worst affected counties. The faults were generally as a result of power failures are treatment plants and pumping stations and burst pipes during the historic storm. Read More However, it is feared that gale force winds this weekend will halt restoration efforts. This morning, schools have re-opened and transport services have resumed. Irish Water is currently co-coordinating up to 30 water tankers to affected areas , and in many places generators are keeping water plants in operation. A further 23 generators on route to assist to restore supplies to 64,000 in the most impacted areas, particularly around the south of the country. A number of wastewater treatment plants and a significant number of sewage pumping stations where power failure is resulting in discharge of untreated or partially treated wastewater to receiving waters. Around 30 wastewater treatment plants are also without power. A crisis management team will stay in place at the utility until full service resumes. Gerry Grant of Irish Water said he is "very hopeful" that progress will be made in fixing services - but they are largely dependent on ESB's ability to restore power. Householders are being asked to conserve water until the issues have been resolved. It comes as the ESB reported a number of "near misses" involving front-line staff who are trying to repair power lines. The National Emergency Coordination Group heard crews had escape injuries from falling trees and live wires. Derek Hynes of ESB appealed to he public to remain "vigilant, stay safe and stay clear". Some 130,000 are still without power as ESB crews are prioritising water plants as repair work continues following Monday's extreme weather. The utility is hoping to have power restored to those people still without power over the next three to four days. Due to the devastation caused by fallen trees nationwide and because of the rural location of some of those affected it will take time to get services restored to those who still have no electricity she said. Storm Ophelia caused the largest event ever faced by the utility with some 360,000 people left without power due to the storm which wreaked havoc across Ireland on Monday. "We are hopeful that the majority of customers in the Northwest and Dublin will be restored tonight. We are also making significant progress in counties Kerry, Laois, Galway, Clare and Westmeath. The southwest counties of Cork and Kerry have had power restored to over 100,000 customers," the ESB said. "We will have estimated restoration times for those customers who remain without power in the morning. ESB Networks will contact vulnerable customers without power this evening to provide updates on likely restoration times." Transport Luas Red and Green Lines have returned to passenger service ahead of schedule. "Following a test of the track and technical systems tonight a decision was made to open service in advance of the publicised opening time Wednesday" the company said in a statement. Meanwhile Met Eireann's Evelyn Cusack has indicated that another, much weaker storm named Brian could hit at the weekend. She said there is a "huge question" over whether it will impact on Ireland but suggested that even if it does there is no concern that it will be anything like Ophelia. Ms Cusack said that at present there are plans to issue a fresh weather warning. Impact An estimated 110,000 people are without communication services following unprecedented Storm Ophelia. It is also feared that more customers will lose their broadband, telephone and mobile services today. They said the storm caused unprecedented and widespread levels of damage to eirs infrastructure, including damage to poles and cables. They marked the southwest and the midlands as the worst affected areas, in particular Cork County. Current fault levels for specific counties include: CORK 51,000 WEXFORD 10,000 LIMERICK 9,000 TIPPERARY 9,000 GALWAY 6,000 KILDARE 3,000 KILKENNY 2,000 KERRY 2,000 WATERFORD 2,000 WICKLOW 2,000 The national clean-up bill is expected to run into the tens of millions. Dangers Following a National Emergency Coordination Group, its chairman Sean Hogan said: "There will be dangers even after the wind has passed. "Unfortunately this storm has left tragedy in its wake and we extend our sympathies to these families." He said the "next stage is now underway" and clean up crews are already on the ground in parts of the country. Mr Hogan said the decision to effectively close down the country for the day by issuing a red alert weather warning was taken "based on the best scientific advice". He said Met Eireann has entered "unchartered territory" but the emergency group was in no doubt that it was the correct decision. "People should not take any risks over the coming days," Mr Hynes said, adding there are 5,000 individual faults. The HSE have warned patients to expect "some disruption" this week as they deal with a backlog of cases. Some elective surgeries have cancelled on Tuesday. Brendan Lawlor of the HSE asked that people only visit hospital emergency departments and GPS "if it is really necessary". Victims The three victims were killed in separate counties following tragic incidents directly linked to the strongest storm to strike Ireland in more than 50 years. The public's adherence to warnings to remain indoors is credited with preventing further loss of life during the storm. Trees that were hundreds of years old slammed onto roadways while everyday objects became projectile missiles in the Hurricane force gusts. The first fatality occurred at approximately 11.40am outside Aglish village, Co Waterford. Clare ONeill (58) died after the car she was driving was struck by a tree. She was due to celebrate her 59th birthday on Tuesday October 17. Expand Close Clare O'Neill who was killed in a car accident during storm Ophelia / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Clare O'Neill who was killed in a car accident during storm Ophelia Ms ONeills mother, who is in her 70s, was a passenger in the car and was injured during the incident and was transferred to Waterford Regional Hospital. Her injuries have been described as non-life threatening. Clare ONeill worked as an oncology nurse for over three decades and recently worked as Cancer Support Co-Ordinator with the Cork ARC Cancer Support House. She was a very jolly woman, very helpful, local shopkeeper Richard Hurley said. Its a big shock, its a miserable morning, a young woman like that (dying) in such a tragic accident. The second tragic death caused by Ophelia occurred at around 12.30pm in Cahir, Co Tipperary. Expand Close Michael Pyke, who was killed during storm Ophelia / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Michael Pyke, who was killed during storm Ophelia Local man Michael Pyke (31) was attempting to clear a fallen tree with a chainsaw when the tragedy occurred. Gardai believe that Mr Pyke was attempting to move the tree on the Cahir to Ardfinnan road, when another tree collapsed and struck him. Emergency services were called but Mr Pyke was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was later removed to Clonmel Hospital. Meanwhile, at approximately 2.45pm a serious road traffic collision occurred in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk, Co Louth. Fintan Goss, who was aged in his 30s, was the driver of a vehicle when it was struck by a tree. It is believed the married father-of-two had been travelling home early from work due to the storm when tragedy struck. Mr Goss lived in Ravensdale with his wife and children. Expand Close Fintan Goss has been named locally as the man who died when a tree hit his car earlier in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fintan Goss has been named locally as the man who died when a tree hit his car earlier in the Ravensdale area of Dundalk. They were supporters of Fine Gael and last night the chairperson of Dundalk Municipal District, Cllr John McGahon (FG) said: This is an absolute tragedy. Fintan and the Goss family are extremely well regarded in the community. He will be greatly missed by his friends, family and the local community in Ravensdale. Our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar extended his sympathies to the families of those killed. President Michael D Higgins also extended his sympathies to the families who lost loved ones during hurricane Ophelia. Speaking as he continued his State Visit of Australia President Higgins said; "My heart goes out those who have lost loved ones and what they must be suffering". The President also acknowledged that the extent of the destruction the storm caused will continue to emerge today. "Some people will have been badly affected by flooding, others will have to reconstruct houses," he said. "I hope that once again that people will come to gather in a spirit of cooperation." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said that the "full resources of the state" will be deployed for the clean-up action. "The full resources of the state will be deployed for the clean up operation. Crews from UK and Northern Ireland will be in to help," he told RTE. This follows a call from British Prime Minister Teresa May yesterday when she offered the Taoiseach assistance in the recovery effort. Mr Varadkar also urged continued continued caution today. "We have had three tragic deaths but the most important thing is that no-one else else losses their life. There are still dangers even if the storm is gone. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next In Pictures: Hurricane Ophelia takes hold of Ireland Close As Hurricane Ophelia continues in Galway people taking video of themselves out in the Height of the storm at the Spanish arch and Claddgh area of Galway . Photo:Andrew Downes Spray splashes over a car ath the Point in Westport, Co. Mayo as Storm Ophelia batters the country. Photo : Keith Heneghan / Phocus. Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurrricane Opelia Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurrricane Opelia ..Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin. As Hurricane Ophelia continues in Galway people taking video of themselves out in the Height of the storm at the Spanish arch and Claddgh area of Galway . Photo:Andrew Downes Hurricane winds collapsed a stand at Turners Cross, Cork city during Storm Ophelia. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Fallen trees in Farranree during Storm Ophelia Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision A fallen tree on Northbrook Road, Ranelagh, which was blown over during Storm Ophelia. Damage to a fenced wall in Farranree during Storm Ophelia Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Walkers in Clontarf pictured this afternoon as Hurricane Ophelia hits the country. Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin. Fallen tree near the Back of Dublin Airport at Knocksedan Photo: Kyran O'Brien 16/10/2017 Poolbeg Lighthouse on the great South Wall during Hurricane Ophelia, Dublin. Photo: Gareth Chaney Collins Fallen tree near the Back of Dublin Airport at Knocksedan Photo: Kyran O'Brien Fallen tree near the Back of Dublin Airport at Knocksedan Photo: Kyran O'Brien As Hurricane Ophelia continues in Galway people taking video of themselves out in the height of the storm at the Spanish Arch and Claddagh area of Galway. Photo:Andrew Downes As Hurricane Ophelia continues in Galway people taking video of themselves out in the height of the storm at the Spanish Arch and Claddagh area of Galway Photo:Andrew Downes Hurricane winds at the Apple campus, Hollyhill, Cork city during Storm Ophelia. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Damage to roofs in Hollyhill during Storm Ophelia Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Fallen trees in Farranree during Storm Ophelia Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Advertising hoarding is ripped off during Storm Ophelia near Kent Station Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Advertising hoarding is ripped off during Storm Ophelia near Kent Station Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Provision 161017 Hurricane 'Ophelia'.... fallen tree Knocknaheeny, Cork City Pic Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision 16-10-17 Storm scenes at Tramore Co. Waterford. Picture Dylan Vaughan 16/10/2017 Ophelia arriving in Galway. Quick walk on the prom ahead of the Hurricane . Photo:Andrew Downes 16/9/17 Gardai, the coastguard and the RNLI helicopter at Blackrock in Co Louth where windsurfers were surfing during storm Ophelia. Picture: Arthur Carron Hurricane Ophelia hitting Fenit in County Kerry. Photo: Mark Condren Hurricane Ophelia hitting Fenit in County Kerry. Photo: Mark Condren Sandbags at the ready in Clontarf this morning for Storm Ophelia. Photo: Kyran O'Brien A woman carries her surfboard towards the rough sea in an area where the tide should be out on the eve of storm Ophelia in the County Clare town of Lahinch, Ireland October 15, 2017. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne A surfer is seen on rough sea where the tide should be out on the eve of the arrival of storm Ophelia in the County Clare town of Lahinch, Ireland October 15, 2017. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne Surfers wait in the Atlantic on their surfboard for big waves to hit on the eve of storm Ophelia in the County Clare town of Lahinch, Ireland October 15, 2017. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne A surfer is seen on rough water in the Atlantic on the eve of storm Ophelia in an area where the tide should be out in the County Clare town of Lahinch, Ireland October 15, 2017. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne The usually very Busy Clontarf road at 8.30 this morning . Photo: Kyran O'Brien The usually very Busy Clontarf road at 8.30 this morning . Photo: Kyran O'Brien Sandbags at the ready in Clontarf this morning for Storm Ophelia.Photo: Kyran O'Brien Sandbags at the ready in Clontarf this morning for Storm Ophelia. Photo: Kyran O'Brien A surfer is seen on rough water in the Atlantic on the eve of storm Ophelia in an area where the tide should be out in the County Clare town of Lahinch, Ireland October 15, 2017. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne A surfer is seen on rough water in the Atlantic on the eve of storm Ophelia in an area where the tide should be out in the County Clare town of Lahinch, Ireland October 15, 2017. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp As Hurricane Ophelia continues in Galway people taking video of themselves out in the Height of the storm at the Spanish arch and Claddgh area of Galway . Photo:Andrew Downes Schools Schools will reopen this morning, and school buses will be running, unless they have safety concerns, the Department of Education has confirmed. The final decision on whether a school reopens will come down to whether there are any safety issues arising from Storm Ophelia. In a statement yesterday, the Department said schools must ensure the safety of those in their care and give due consideration to this when making a decision to re-open. The Department also advised that if a non-State owned school needs repairs it should, in the first instance, contact its insurance providers, before seeking any emergency funding from the State. For any State-owned buildings, school authorities are free to apply for funding under the Department of Educations Emergency Works Scheme. Education Minister Richard Bruton thanked principals, teachers, students and parents for their co-operation with safety measures over the past two days. Health Around 10,000 people whose hospital outpatient appointments were cancelled due to Hurricane Ophelia on Monday may have to wait weeks to get a re-scheduled date. The cancellations, which were called for safety reasons to prevent public patients having to make journeys in hazardous conditions, could result in extra clinics being laid on in some cases to help clear the backlog, Damien McCallion, the HSE's national director of emergency management, said yesterday. He said other patients who had appointments with mental health and other services will have to be re-scheduled. Health services continued to face disruption yesterday, although all outpatient clinics went ahead. Some waiting list patients awaiting planned surgery had their operations put back because of a lack of beds. Hospitals were under pressure to free up beds that were occupied by patients who could not be discharged due to the storm. Mr McCallion said some hospitals opened closed beds and this helped to relieve overcrowding in hospital A&E departments. The emergency departments were busy in the afternoon as patients, who held off seeking medical care on Monday, attended services yesterday. Ambulance services in some areas of the country faced difficulties due to fallen trees and road blockages caused by the storm. This led to delays in some cases. Mr McCallion said homecare services were also disrupted and some patients who needed medical equipment that was powered by electricity had to be moved to community hospitals after electricity supplies were affected. In the run up to the storm, home care and other staff had tried to visit as many people as possible who rely on home visits in counties which were on "red" alert. Five hospitals were in areas that suffered electricity blackouts and had to revert to their generators. Read More How did Ophelia affect you? Send your comments and pictures to contact@independent.ie. Remember to stay safe Hundreds of Defence Forces members will be sent to the worst-hit part of the country today as the Government begins assessing the cost of the damage. It will be several days before local authorities can establish the cost of repairs, but it is expected to run into hundreds of millions of euro. However OPW Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran told the Irish Independent money would not be an issue. "Money is not the problem. The Government won't be found wanting when it comes to money. We've a good record where we've had issues," he said. He said lessons would be learned from the preparation for yesterday's events, including a need to increase public awareness of the meaning behind different colour weather alerts. However, he said the Government and National Emergency Co-ordination Group had not over-hyped the threat posed by the strong winds. Expand Close Click to view full size graphic / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Click to view full size graphic "There's an element of people saying we overreacted but three lives were lost and it could be more. I can't emphasise this enough, we didn't overreact," he said. "There are an awful lot of people alive today because of what we did." The Cabinet meets in Dublin this morning, where a number of ministers will brief colleagues on the response efforts. Defence Minister Paul Kehoe told the Irish Independent that members of the Army were strategically placed at locations around the country yesterday and would be on the ground from early today. Yesterday soldiers cleared roads around Kenmare, Co Kerry, while military vehicles were used to ferry HSE staff to and from their offices in Callan and Graiguenamanagh, Co Kilkenny. Members of the Defence Forces have been called back from training courses and a pre-deployment training event scheduled for today for officers heading on a six-month tour of duty in South Lebanon has been cancelled. "We will have to prioritise work that will have to be done," Mr Kehoe said, adding that members of the voluntary Civil Defence would also be on the ground. He noted that every barracks has a civil aid unit with the ability to clear roads and help the ESB in accessing sites. The Air Corps may also be called upon to help provide aerial imagery of the damage. Environment Minister Denis Naughten will visit the ESB's central control office at 6.30am in order to bring a report straight to Cabinet afterwards. Power Expand Close Gina Casey, from Ennistymon, struggles with the high wind on the Lahinch coastline of Co Clare. Photo: Brian Arthur / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Gina Casey, from Ennistymon, struggles with the high wind on the Lahinch coastline of Co Clare. Photo: Brian Arthur Around one-in-five homes across the country was left without power, and it will be more than a week before power is fully restored. The ESB expects to restore power to between 70,000 and 80,000 homes a day. Transport Minister Shane Ross is expected to give an early assessment of the damage to the road network. He said the response to the storm would be "top of the agenda" and the Government "wasn't found wanting for money" after the recent floods in Donegal. "The Government will address the issue of funding head-on and won't run away from it in any way," he said. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar thanked ESB crews, local authority workers and gardai who worked through the storm. Schools across the country will reopen tomorrow, unless they have safety concerns, the Department of Education and Skills has confirmed. In a statement issued this afternoon, the department said: "Schools, VTOS and Youthreach centres will reopen tomorrow and school transport will be back in operation, subject to any damages experienced at a local level. "As always, schools must ensure the safety of those in their care and give due consideration to this when making a decision to re-open." The Department also advised that if a non-State owned school needs repairs it should, in the first instance, contact its insurance providers before seeking any emergency funding from the State. For any State-owned buildings, school authorities are free to apply for funding under the Department of Educations Emergency Works Scheme. Education Minister Richard Bruton thanked principals, teachers, students and parents for their co-operation with safety measures over the past two days. Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurricane Opelia Locals cut up and clear a fallen tree which had been blocking the road for most of the day on the Leixlip Road, near the Salmon Leap Inn this evening after Hurrricane Opelia Ireland is beginning to look toward addressing the trail of destruction left by Storm Ophelia which has wreaked havoc on the country for more than 12 hours, costing three lives and causing millions of euro in damage. While the storm is continuing to affect the northwest of the country, the clean-up effort is already underway in some parts of the country and will begin in earnest later today. The Defence Forces have been deployed in Cork city, which was badly affected by the storm. On Tuesday more resources will be deployed to the parts of the country most affected. We look at the plans in place to begin addressing the damage caused and also at public services, as most resume today. Electricity network Some 295,000 households and businesses are without power and up to 5pc of those could be without power for ten days. The ESB said all customers should prepare to be without electricity for a number of days after trees downed pylons and power lines, with 3,200 individual faults across the network. More than 2,5000 workers are working to restore the network and the government has pledged all staff and available contractors will be available from today to restore electricity. The utility expects to restore power to between 70,000 and 80,000 homes a day. Water supply "Extensive power outages affecting treatment plants and pumping stations have been reported by Irish Water, with communities in the south left without water, particularly in areas with no water storage facilities and where burst main repairs could not be completed on safety grounds. A limited number of boil water notices are in place following power failures on small supplies, and some untreated sewage was being discharged after power failures in wastewater treatment plants. Work is continuing to repair these failures - with focus being placed on the largest supplies. Eir Telecoms company Eir said at least 11,000 customers were without a broadband, telephone or mobile service following unprecedented and widespread levels of damage to poles, cables and mast infrastructure. The company will be working to restore service to those affected as soon as possible. Road network Councils around the country will be assessing the damage caused by the storm today. The Government has pledged additional funding for the recovery operation. The Road Safety Authority warned that motorists need to remain vigilant today, as many roads will be flooded or blocked with downed trees, branches and pylons. Severe winds may also have loosened roof tiles which will continue to pose a risk. Council workers and emergency services will be out clearing these routes and people need to anticipate encountering these scenarios when using the roads, it said. Bus Eireann All services are expected to resume on Tuesday with the exception of school bus services. "Bus Eireann plan to operate a full schedule of services tomorrow (October 17) from 0500 hours, with the exception of services provided under the School Transport Scheme. "This is due to the decision of the Department of Education and Skills that all schools should remain closed tomorrow. "This resumption includes all Bus Eireann services, the Expressway network, Eurolines and GoBE services. "However, we expect disruption to some services in areas where the worst damage has been caused by the storm. "This may include diversions, delays or cancellations. We will be guided by the advice of local authorities or other bodies regarding roads that are affected. "We will be providing updates on www.buseireann.ie and on Twitter and Facebook @buseireann and to local, regional and national media as soon as the position becomes clearer. Irish Rail Subject to inspections it is expected that most rail services will run. In a statement the company issued the following update: Cancellations 05.50 Cork to Dublin Heuston cancelled, 06.15 Cork to Dublin Heuston will additionally serve Mallow, Charleville and Limerick Junction. Limerick to Ballybrophy via Nenagh services cancelled. Bus substitution in place. 09.45 Westport to Dublin Heuston cancelled. Reduced capacity Reduced capacity on 05.30, 06.40 & 07.40 Limerick to Dublin services Reduced capacity on 05.30, 06.30 & 07.30 Galway to Dublin services All other services are expected to operate, subject to line inspections. Luas The Luas Red and Green Line services will not be running until at least midday due to damaged caused by the storm. In a statement Luas operators confirmed that services would still be affected tomorrow morning. The statement reads: "There will be no Red or Green Line services on Tuesday morning October 17th 2017. "Earlier today an incident occurred in the Luas Depot, Red Cow, Clondalkin. "A technical room was damaged because of Hurricane Ophelia. "It will take time to investigate the damage caused and time to repair. We are not able to give an estimate in relation to the time it will take. "Luas will therefore not operate a service on Tuesday morning October 17th 2017 "Luas will inform customers, media and the public about Luas services post a 12 noon meeting tomorrow. "Luas has updated the NECC on this matter. "Customers are advised to follow media reports and to check Luas.ie, follow twitter@luas "Luas customer care is open 7am 7pm." Dublin Bus Services are due to resume this morning. Schools Meanwhile, decisions on whether third-level colleges, creches and montessori schools will open has been left to the institutions and facilities themselves University of Limerick and GMIT are among those due to re-open. The Mountbellew campus of GMIT will remain closed however. Maynooth University will not be re-opening. But childcare facilities that decide to remain closed on Tuesday as a result of the storm will still be entitled to claim State funding for the day. Creche owners have been urged to take no chances as "safety must be the top consideration". How did Ophelia affect you? Send your comments and pictures to contact@independent.ie. Remember to stay safe Former US President Bill Clinton has told how the Good Friday Agreement broke like a thunder cloud across the world - as he urged people to embrace diversity. He was speaking today as he was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate at The Helix in Dublin City University. In a citation for the former President delivered by Professor Gary Murphy, he said he had long been "a friend of Ireland." Mr Murphy paid tribute to his role in Northern Ireland, and said he had been credited by both former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern - who was present at the event today - and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair as being instrumental to the signing of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. "President Clinton took many risks, among them the granting of a visa to Gerry Adams to visit the United States in 1994," he said. Mr Clinton said: "You have been kind enough to give me this degree, because I did what I could to make it happen, starting in the beginning with the Visa to Gerry Adams and then all the things that happened later, and the involvement of Senator George Mitchell." "The great trick is to own your own identity, embrace your own tribe, but form a community with what you have in common, with those you can't get away from, is more important than your differences." He said that the accord saw shared decision making, and special ties to the Republic of Ireland as well as to the UK. "It was really quite something. There had never been any peace agreement exactly like it before. It broke like a thunder cloud across the world." He said elsewhere people saw it and thought "well if they can pull this off after all these decades maybe we should too," he said. "What is central to our identity? What we have in common, or what is different? "All partnerships that are community based are held together not because everybody agrees with everybody else, not because we don't still have our different identities, they are because cooperation is better than conflict or isolation, in any environment in which you must be in touch with others." "But we are re-litigating it now," he said, pointing to what has happened during elections across a number of European states. However, he said that the world is now in a conflict between whether we should stop our mingling with others at the tribal level, or whether communities are better - whether diverse groups make better decisions and create more wealth and opportunity, or homogeneous ones, because they don't push us so hard, and we feel more secure. "I can fill this great auditorium with the scientific evidence that diverse groups make better decisions." "I love to quote Pope Francis. He said that we should live in a culture of encounter. Not that we should agree with each other all the time. Not that everybody should be right all the time. But we should encounter each other as people and find ways to be together." "In my country, there have been people who think its okay to disenfranchise people if they are community oriented, rather than tribe oriented. " Around 1,000 people were present at The Helix at Dublin City University (DCU) today - including businessman Denis O'Brien - to see the former President, as well as Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, who has well known for her work with the poor and homeless, and business leader Martin Naughton, be conferred with Honorary Doctorates. Mr Clinton made an address lasting over 20 minutes, after signing the Roll of Honour after accepting the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. He described Taoiseach Leo Varadkar as a "very impressive man." and said he had spoken to him yesterday about the work Ireland has done with the United Nations since its foundation. Speaking about the recipients, Dr Martin McAleese, the chancellor of DCU said that: "There is no way of successfully measuring what Ireland owes each of them, but we do know that we are in their debt." He said that they were being awarded with the highest honour the University could confer. Lidl Ireland has released details of a short-lived promotion on Prosecco which is due to take place in Irish stores later this month. The German supermarket chain is selling six bottles of Prosecco for the price of four (31.96) for two days in October. The special offer will be in place on Saturday October 28 and October 29. Customers have been advised by the store to drink responsibly on a post on their Facebook page this evening advertising the deal. Lidl has been capitalising on Prosecco's newfound popularity of late and recently released details of its organic 'hangover free' version of the drink. Lidl claims their organic drink will banish that morning after feeling as it has less sulphites, which lead to hangovers. Read More The Organic Prosecco Spumante is all set to hit shelves in the UK this Thursday and is priced at a very reasonable 7.99. The miracle bottles will no doubt cause a fiasco in stores as prosecco lovers try to get their hands on a bottle. According to Lidls master of wine, Richard Bampfield, the bubbly has bright aromas of 'pear and white peach'. "Weve all had that shocking wine hangover. This is sometimes attributed to the sulphite preservatives used in wine to keep them fresher for longer. "Generally, organic wine producers use a lower level of sulphites in the production process, which means they are less likely to contribute to hangovers. "So if you dont react well to sulphites you could be saying good riddance to hangovers with Lidls Organic Prosecco Spumante." Unfortunately, Lidl Ireland confirmed that the prosecco will not visit Irish stores for the festive season. Charlotte Murray has not been in contact with her loved ones since October 2012 The heartbroken mother of a missing woman is "inconsolable", her family have said on the fifth anniversary of her disappearance. Charlotte Murray (34), who was originally from Omagh but had been living in Moy, Co Tyrone, was reported missing in May 2013. She had not been in contact with her family or friends since October/November 2012. Charlotte, who was one of 11 siblings, wasn't married and worked in the catering industry. Yesterday, her sisters Denise Murray and Emma Corrigan, and her nephew Troy Murray, joined with Detective Chief Inspector Eamonn Corrigan to renew their poignant appeal. Charlotte's twin sister Denise described the impact of the ordeal on the family as "one of the most horrific experiences we have ever faced in our lives". She stated: "It's heartbreaking to know that Charlotte's out there somewhere and we can't do anything to help her. "Since our sister went missing in late 2012 our emotions have been all over the place. Hope has been our friend in this nightmare so far and we cling on to it." Charlotte's birthday was on Christmas Day, and Denise also revealed the heartache which the festive period now holds for her loved ones. "Charlotte has missed so many family events and celebrations and that constantly reminds us that Charlotte is not here with us," she continued. "Christmas is a really sad time for our family also - we'll be spending our sixth Christmas without her this year. We are in mourning but we have no special place to go to remember Charlotte." Describing her mum as "inconsolable" over Charlotte's loss, Denise said the family simply wanted to lay the young woman to rest. "We also feel each other's pain. Our poor mum is inconsolable and there's nothing we can say or do to help ease her pain. "She gave Charlotte life and not knowing what happened to her is heartbreaking for our mum. "We suffer every day as we try to come to terms with the thought that we might never get to see Charlotte again. She was such a positive and outgoing person - the life and soul of the party and such great fun to be around. "Someone has taken her life and they know what they have done - we are appealing to that person to come forward please find the decency to tell us where she is. We just want to say goodbye and lay her to rest." Chief Inspector Corrigan said that Charlotte's family and friends had "suffered intolerable grief" for the past five years. "We have made significant progress over the past 12 months and I would like to make a specific appeal for information about Charlotte's engagement ring and her mobile phone. "The ring has a gold band with diamonds and also has a hexagon shape in the centre containing multiple diamond stones. Charlotte's mobile phone was a Samsung Galaxy Y S5360. "Her family miss her and they deserve and need to know what happened to her." A man who planned a surprise trip to Paris for his girlfriend was left in limbo after Ryanair cancelled his flight and refused to refund him for their holiday package. Ross Doyle told Independent.ie that he booked the entire trip through Ryanairs holiday agent. "I booked the entire holiday with flights and accommodation through Ryanair holidays. Our flight home from Paris to Dublin was cancelled so we decided to apply for a full refund." Ross was left outraged after "five or six" Ryanair employees repeatedly told him he couldnt get a refund or that he was through to the wrong department and couldnt help. "I rang their phone countless times and got no answer so I finally got through to somebody on their live chat service after trying for a few days. "They advised me to fill out a refund form online for the flights and told me then I would need to fill out a compensation form for the hotel. I couldn't understand why all of it couldn't be refunded together as it was booked together. After almost two weeks, Ross still received no refund. Read More "They gave me countless excuses of why I couldnt get the refund. They said my card number was wrong, I didnt have the right address on my form and so on. "Eventually after speaking to about five different agents over a few days they advised that it was the Ryanair travel agents details they could see and as far as they are concerned it is not their responsibility anymore as they had processed the money for the flights to them/no mention of the cost of the hotel. "How can a company deny any responsibility when they are selling holidays through this travel agency on their behalf on their website?" Ross said that he had been "fobbed off" by customer service representatives online. "The phone number for the travel agency appears to even be disconnected." Ross then contacted his bank who said they would step in and dispute the issue with Ryanair on his behalf. Expand Close Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary. Photo: Frank McGrath / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary. Photo: Frank McGrath "It is no use for O'Leary to get on the TV and say he is trying to help everyone and almost everybody has been either compensated or put on a different flight because I find this very hard to believe based on all the Facebook comments and groups with people sharing very similar issues to myself," he said. Independent.ie contacted Ryanair for comment and, within an hour, Ross received a call to say his refund will be issued. "Once the media got involved, Ryanair rang me and said they will issue a refund. Its absolutely ridiculous that Ryanair cares more about their PR than their customers. Read More "If you want them to help you have to make a scene on Twitter or contact the media. Thats a disgrace. Imagine how many old people, who aren't familiar with the online world, are being left out to dry?" Ross said that he will rebook his trip to Paris with a different airline and "will never travel with Ryanair again." In a statement to Independent.ie, a spokesperson for Ryanair said: "We regret that our customer service agent provided the wrong information in this instance. A full refund has since been processed and we apologise for the confusion caused." In a follow up statement, Ryanair said: "Thousands of Ryanair customers contact our customer service department without issue on a daily basis and 99 per cent of claims are processed within seven days. We are continuing to improve and enhance our customer service channels and customers can contact us through a range of options including phone, webchat, email or social media." Conor McGregor Jr is already very accustomed to the good life. MMA superstar Conor Sr and girlfriend Dee Devlin celebrated their son's christening in one of the most lavish parties you could imagine: complete with a castle setting, mini-carnival and ferris wheel. At just five months, the little guy may be too little to fully appreciate his party, but proud dad Conor shared a number of pictures of him enjoying the festivities alongside the infant. Expand Close Conor McGregor and Dee Devlin at their son Conor Jr's christening party. Picture: Instagram / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Conor McGregor and Dee Devlin at their son Conor Jr's christening party. Picture: Instagram Simply captioned 'Mac land', their no expense spared bash at Dublin's Luttrellstown Castle, which was transformed into a mini-carnival including a petting zoo, bouncy castle and a ferris wheel which the tot enjoyed in his father's arms. The event took place on Sunday with just family and friends in attendance, all of whom were reportedly subject to a social media ban in order to keep it private. However, his sisters Aoife and Erin shared sweet snaps with their nephew from the day, with Aoife opting for a more Insta-glam set-up in front of the castle with the baby in one hand and a pig on a leash on the other. Erin, on the other hand, shared a more candid snap of her enjoying some downtime with her son Harry and baby nephew. Expand Close Conor McGregor with his son Conor Jr at his christening party. Picture: Instagram / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Conor McGregor with his son Conor Jr at his christening party. Picture: Instagram "Cuz let's take some time and catch up on a bit of peppa pig celebrating conor junior 's christening day," she captioned the pic, showing the two boys looking enamored watching cartoons on her phone. Mum-of-the-hour Dee took centre stage in a slashed asymmetric bodsuit with a raspberry silk skirt with centre slit and a pair of crystal embellished heels. Devlin, who is now a social media sensation all her own with more than one million Instagram followers, has been slowly dipping her toe back in the spotlight since welcoming the couple's first child in May, after the whirwind of her other half's fight against Lloyd Mayweather. Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine Duchess of Cambridge celebrate World Mental Health Day at Buckingham Palace in London, Britain, October 10, 2017. REUTERS/ Heathcliff O'Malley/Pool Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Catherine Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry celebrate World Mental Health Day at Buckingham Palace in London, Britain, October 10, 2017. REUTERS/ Heathcliff O'Malley/Pool Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Catherine Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry celebrate World Mental Health Day at Buckingham Palace in London, Britain, October 10, 2017. REUTERS/ Heathcliff O'Malley/Pool Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine Duchess of Cambridge celebrate World Mental Health Day at Buckingham Palace in London, Britain, October 10, 2017. REUTERS/ Heathcliff O'Malley/Pool Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, laughs as she arrives to attend a charities forum event at Paddington train station in London on October 16, 2017 Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, (C) dances with a person in a Paddington Bear outfit by her husband Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, (R) as they attend a charities forum event at Paddington train station in London on October 16, 2017 Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, (C) dances with a person in a Paddington Bear outfit by her husband Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge as they attend a charities forum event at Paddington train station in London on October 16, 2017 Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, (C) laughs as she shakes hands with a person in a Paddington Bear outfit along with her husband Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, (R) as they attend a charities forum event at Paddington train station in London on October 16, 2017 Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge are seen during a visit to The Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace on August 30, 2017 in London, England Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrive at the Brandenburg Gate during an official visit to Poland and Germany on July 19, 2017 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images) The due date of the third royal baby has been narrowed down in a statement from Kensington Palace The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are "delighted" to be expecting their third child in April, the palace said. The news comes just a day after Kate had a dance with Paddington Bear at London's Paddington station. She has reportedly been struggling with hyperemesis gravidarum - a severe form of morning sickness - which she also endured through her two previous pregnancies. Expand Close Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, (C) dances with a person in a Paddington Bear outfit by her husband Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge as they attend a charities forum event at Paddington train station in London on October 16, 2017 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, (C) dances with a person in a Paddington Bear outfit by her husband Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge as they attend a charities forum event at Paddington train station in London on October 16, 2017 Kate and William have two children, Prince George (4) and Princess Charlotte (2). The new royal baby should arrive the month before the Cambridges' daughter Princess Charlotte turns three. However, it is believed that Kate went over her due date on both previous pregnancies. Expand Close Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Catherine Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry celebrate World Mental Health Day at Buckingham Palace in London, Britain, October 10, 2017. REUTERS/ Heathcliff O'Malley/Pool / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Catherine Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry celebrate World Mental Health Day at Buckingham Palace in London, Britain, October 10, 2017. REUTERS/ Heathcliff O'Malley/Pool The Duchess gave birth to George and Charlotte at the private Lindo Wing at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, central London, and will be expected to do the same, unless she opts for a home birth. The new baby will be born fifth in line to the throne, pushing uncle Prince Harry into sixth place. Expand Close Britain's Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, his wife Princess Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George and Princess Charlotte walk past helicopters at the airfield in Hamburg Finkenwerder, Germany, July 21, 2017. REUTERS/Christian Charisius/POOL / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Britain's Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, his wife Princess Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George and Princess Charlotte walk past helicopters at the airfield in Hamburg Finkenwerder, Germany, July 21, 2017. REUTERS/Christian Charisius/POOL It is likely Kate has now had her 12 week scan and seen an ultrasound image of her baby. Soon after the news of the pregnancy was revealed in September, William revealed there was "not much sleep" being had at the main family home of Kensington Palace as Kate fought her severe morning sickness. Video of the Day "We need Catherine to get over this first bit and then we can start celebrating," he said at the time. "It's always a bit anxious to start with, but she's well." 2018 will be a busy one for the couple, in addition to preparing for their third child, they have also announced an official trip to Sweden and Norway. Kensington Palace said the couple had been asked to undertake the Scandinavian visit on behalf of the Foreign Office. The royal household also announced that William is to make a solo official visit to Finland next month. William was already committed to visiting Finland in 2017 to mark the centenary of the country's independence. Depending on the exact date of the joint tour, the couple may now be making the trip to Norway and Sweden in the depths of the Scandinavian winter. A Twitter poll about the Holocaust has seen a backlash directed at the new media venture started by former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci. The controversial tweet asked: How many Jews were killed in the Holocaust? There has been widespread criticism for the poll, with some saying it panders to Holocaust denial. 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 People could choose from four options with figures ranging from less than one million to more than five million. Although there is no definitive figure, an agreed number is six million. 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 tweet has since been deleted and an apology issued by the Scaramucci Post, the venture started after The Mooch was fired by US president Donald Trump. He lasted just 10 days in his White House job during which he went on a foul-mouthed rant to a journalist which was made public. More than 4,000 people voted in the poll before the tweet was deleted. A series of apologies and explainers have been issued via the Scaramucci Post account. 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 The person taking the fall for the ill-thought tweet is Lance Laifer. His Twitter bio lists him as the CEO of Old Forge Media and the creator and co-founder of Hedge Funds vs Malaria and Pneumonia. His LinkedIn profile lists him as the president of Laifer Capital. In various reports, he is also described as Scaramuccis partner in The Scaramucci Post. The new venture was launched in September but so far exists only with a Twitter and Instagram presence. 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 At a launch in Manhattan, Scaramucci himself told reporters he didnt know what the project would eventually become. 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 recently deleted tweet has been ridiculed for its insensitivity about the Holocaust and towards Jewish people. 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 Scaramucci is currently in the UK and addressed the Oxford Union on Monday evening. A key potential ally in Germany's next government is insisting Chancellor Angela Merkel's party should not keep the finance ministry because that gives her too much power. Exploratory talks on a potential coalition of Mrs Merkel's conservatives, the pro-business Free Democrats and traditionally left-leaning Greens start this week. Mrs Merkel's current partners, the centre-left Social Democrats, vowed to go into opposition after last month's election. Outgoing finance minister Wolfgang Schaeuble, a member of Mrs Merkel's Christian Democratic Union, has been a powerful figure for the past eight years. He is leaving to become parliament speaker. The Free Democrats' leader, Christian Lindner, told Tuesday's edition of the daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung that "anything would be better than keeping the chancellery and the finance ministry in the CDU's hands ... that has not stood the test". AP Campaigners want Australia to put more investment into solar power and other renewable energy sources The Australian government on Tuesday rejected a plan to generate 42% of the country's power from wind and solar energy, in a setback for compliance with climate change commitments. Conservation groups have condemned the ruling conservative coalition for abandoning the renewable energy target for 2030 that was recommended this year by Australia's chief scientist to comply with the Paris climate change agreement. The government instead plans to require power companies to provide a certain minimum amount of power from coal, gas and hydroelectric generation. Reliance on solar and wind generation would be limited according to the needs of each state for guarantee of supply. The policy change will end subsidies paid to wind and solar generators from 2020, to help reduce costs for consumers. "Past energy plans have subsidised some industries, punished others and slugged consumers," Australia's prime minister Malcolm Turnbull said in a statement. "The Turnbull government will take a different approach," he added. Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg told Parliament that coal and gas would generate 64 to 72% of Australia's electricity by 2030. Coal and gas will account for 76.5% by 2020, meaning Australia was on track to achieve its current clean energy target of 23.5% of electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar and hydro by then, Mr Frydenberg said. Hydro is reliable, clean and renewable but is a fairly small component of the energy mix. Australians per capita are among the world's worst greenhouse gas polluters because of the country's heavy reliance on its abundant coal reserves for power. But no new coal-fired generators are being built because of uncertainty over how Australia intends to achieve its greenhouse gas cuts. Australia was about to overtake Qatar as the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas but the government has restricted exports because state governments have created a domestic supply shortage by blocking new gas field development. Mark Wakeham, chief executive of Environment Victoria, a Victoria state-based conservation group, accused the government of rejecting "a clean energy target in favour of a coal energy target". "Australia joins Donald Trump's United States as one of only two major national governments to remove support for investment in renewable energy and redirect it to ageing and polluting power stations," Mr Wakeham said in a statement. Australia's Paris target is to reduce emissions by 26% below 2005 levels by 2030. AP A second referendum that reverses Brexit would have a positive and significant impact on the UK economy, which is on track to be crippled by its EU divorce, an influential think tank has claimed. The latest UK economic survey by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is currently projecting economic growth of just 1% in 2018, saying that the uncertainty of Brexit negotiations is likely to leave the UK without a free-trade agreement with the EU by its official exit date in 2019. It warned that Britains economic prospects could be further hit by a disorderly Brexit if negotiations between the EU and UK are cut short, triggering a sharp reaction by financial markets, sending the exchange rate to new lows and leading to a downgrade in the UKs sovereign rating. Business investment would seize up, and heightened price pressures would choke off private consumption. The current account deficit could be harder to finance, although its size would likely be reduced, the report warned. There are also risks that Scotland and Northern Ireland could vote to stay in the EU, which would have a major impact on the national economy. Expand Close March for Independence / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp March for Independence But the Paris-based OECD has suggested the UK could dodge those risks through a Brexit reversal. In case Brexit gets reversed by political decision (change of majority, new referendum, etc), the positive impact on growth would be significant, the report said. The OECD admitted that Brexit negotiations were difficult to forecast, and could prove more favourable than assumed in its report boosting trade, investment and growth but stressed that this would require an ambitious EU-UK agreement and a transition period to allow for adjustment to the new agreement. Meantime, however, uncertainty could hamper domestic and foreign investment more than projected and hurt consumption even more were the exchange rate to depreciate further, it added. Brexit has compounded the challenge of reviving labour productivity growth, which the OECD said had come to a standstill and made no meaningful contribution to UK output since 2007. The report highlighted that labour productivity was also weakest outside of Greater London and the South East of England. This kind of disparity between regions and workers may lead to, or be the result of, important differences among people in terms of income and wealth, jobs and earnings, and education and skills. Well-being inequalities may have been one of the causes of Brexit, as less-educated workers in remote regions might have perceived to benefit less from the European project, it added. The report put forward a number of recommendations to address productivity and job quality of low-skilled workers, including investment in transport links within and between cities, continue devolution measures, additional training, restricting self-employment to independent entrepreneurs, and granting zero-hours contract workers increased job security after three months. Expand Close Brexit / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Brexit Responding to the OECD report, a spokesman for the Treasury said: Increasing productivity is a key priority for this Government, so that we can build on our record employment levels and improve peoples quality of life. Today, the OECD has recognised the importance of our 23 billion National Productivity Investment Fund which will improve our countrys infrastructure, increase research and development and build more houses. In addition, our reforms to technical education and our ambitious Industrial Strategy will also help to deliver an economy that works for everyone. Today, our nation thinks about how to earn money even for the bread - taxi driver (video) Individual taxi drivers demand the resignation of Transport, Communication and IT Minister Vahan Martirosyan. "This minister has absolutely no knowledge of the domain," said Tigran Hovhannisyan, President of the Car Defender League. Taxi drivers are crazy about the new rule, according to which, the maximum usage of the car which delivers a taxi service should be 6 years. There are still discussions on this issue. "Today our entire nation is thinking about how to earn money even for the bread."says Gagik Danielyan Today, taxi drivers also touched upon Minister Vahan Martirosyan's statement that driving cars with steering wheels on right hand side is uncomfortable. "In other words, if minister is not comfortable, the whole people should be uncomfortable too. You are a minister, you should think about the people or people should think about you? "added Gagik Danielyan. And Tigran Hovhannisyan thinks the minister has been bribed by the major auto companies. "They want to solve the problem of the cars with steering wheels on right hand side, just because their work has stopped." Next Wednesday, individual taxi drivers plan to hold a big protest outside the National Assembly. A blindfolded IS suspect faces away from security officers at a Kurdish screening centre (AP/Bram Janssen) The Syrian city of Raqqa has been liberated from Islamic State militants, a senior commander for a US-backed force has said. Clearing operations were under way to remove land mines left behind and search for the extremist group's sleeper cells, Brigadier General Talal Sillo added. Brig Gen Sillo said on Tuesday there are no longer clashes in the city, which had served as the extremist group's headquarters and self-proclaimed capital of their so-called "caliphate" for more than three years. A formal declaration will be made from the city soon, after the clearing operations end. Raqqa is still full of land mines, Brig Gen Sillo added, but fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces are now in control of the former "capital of terrorism". On Monday, the head of a police force affiliated with the SDF, was killed in a land mine explosion in the city, he said. Losing Raqqa is a huge blow for IS, which has steadily lost territory in Iraq and Syria, including Iraq's second largest city of Mosul few months ago. The group declared the city on the banks of the Euphrates River, which it seized from other Syrian rebels in early 2014, to be the capital of its self-styled "caliphate", transforming the one vibrant metropolis into the epicentre of its brutal rule where opponents were beheaded and terror plots were planned. Dozens of militants who refused to surrender had made their last stand in the city's stadium, which had become notorious as a prison and dungeons for the group. After Brig Gen Sillo's statement, it was not immediately clear if the IS militants were still inside the stadium. Also earlier, Musafa Bali, a spokesman for the SDF, said 22 IS militants were killed in the advance on the hospital. "The stadium is a huge structure with underground rooms and tunnels. There are also buildings around it" still under the control of IS, he said and added that "there is nothing decisive today". On Monday, the Kurdish-led SDF captured Paradise Square, Raqqa's public square where Islamic State militants used to perform killings and beheadings, forcing residents to watch after summoning them with loudspeakers. Bodies and severed heads would linger there for days, mounted on posts. Residents described how the bodies of those slain would be labelled, each with his or her perceived crime, for the public to see. The square previously known for its famous ice cream shop was quickly renamed from Paradise to Hell Square, Jahim in Arabic. The Kurdish-run Hawar news agency said with the capture of the hospital, the last black IS flag raised in the city had been taken down. A video released by the news agency illustrated the clashes around the hospital building, which appeared riddled with bullets and partly blackened from a fire. A senior Kurdish commander said there is no sign of civilians in the stadium or around it but hat his troops are cautious because they expect IS has laid mines in the fortified stadium building. The US-led coalition said it had not carried out any air strikes in or around Raqqa for 24 hours, starting from noon Sunday. T he battle for Raqqa began in June and has dragged for weeks as the SDF fighters faced stiff resistance from the militants. In the campaign, the city suffered major devastation, leaving most of its buildings levelled and in ruins. AP Most of a shipment of New Zealand cows destined for small ranchers in Mexico's Chihuahua state instead wound up on the ranch of the then-governor, an anti-corruption group has claimed. The group said documents that include government cattle tracking records show that some 900 cows made it to the ranch of the now-fugitive ex-governor Cesar Duarte. Mexicans Against Corruption And Impunity published its investigation on Tuesday. A shipment of 1,400 cows arrived by ship at the Pacific port of Mazatlan in June 2015. The shipment was arranged by the government to help rebuild the state's herds after two years of drought. They were to be distributed to small ranches with fewer than 45 cows. The group said farmers took out government-financed loans to pay for cows they never received. AP The Duchess of Cambridge dances with a costumed figure of Paddington bear on platform 1 at Paddington Station, London, as she attends the Charities Forum event. Photo: PA Kate Middleton put her morning sickness behind her when Paddington Bear asked her for a dance - and she revealed she was fleet of foot. Kate and the famous children's character twirled and shimmied on platform one at London's Paddington station, where Michael Bond's creation was found all those years ago. Kate, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry were there to wave off a group of children as they embarked on a day trip in vintage carriages pulled by a steam locomotive. Kate, who is pregnant with her third child, is suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum - a severe form of morning sickness - but made a surprise appearance at the event, where youngsters met stars of the new 'Paddington II' movie. Maxim Lapunov went public to describe his detention and torture by police during a crackdown on gay men He had arrived in Chechnya on business in 2015. A small-scale entrepreneur from Omsk, Siberia, and openly gay, Mr Maxim Lapunov had little idea of what lay ahead. Within two years, he would be arrested, thrown into a blood-soaked cellar and repeatedly beaten, before being released 12 days later. Mr Lapunov had been caught up in the whirlwind of Chechnyas gay purge, which would later made headlines around the world. On Monday, he became the first man to go public with his story in Russia. Speaking at a press conference organised by journalists and activists, the details of which were hushed at last moment, Mr Lapunov said he had been moved to act by the lack of progress made in the formal investigation, which began in April. Speaking at the press conference, Igor Kalyapin, head of the Committee against Torture NGO said: In simple Russian, there has been no investigation. News of the arrests and disappearances of gay men in Chechnya came to light in April this year. It is believed the men were first targeted by Chechen law enforcement officials in February. They were, it is alleged, held in unofficial prisons, beaten and tortured. The campaign of arrests lasted a few weeks, before pausing, and then resuming in March. Expand Close Maxim Lapunov (2nd R), 30, along with human rights and gay rights activists attend a press conference in Moscow / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Maxim Lapunov (2nd R), 30, along with human rights and gay rights activists attend a press conference in Moscow Mr Lapunov, 30, says he was arrested on 16 March by plain clothed officers. He was, he says, released on 28 March on the condition that he did not speak to anyone about his experience, and signed a blank confession. The only charge they made was that I was gay, he told journalists at the press conference. I could hardly walk. I was sure they were going to kill me, I was preparing for that. According to Tanya Lokshina of Human Rights Watch, and author of a new report into the purge, approximately 100 men were caught up in the actions. Journalists have reported three men died as a direct result of the campaign, with one man killed in what is believed to be an honour killing. Ms Lokshina said that her organisation had been unable to confirm these numbers independently. Speaking at the press conference, gay rights activist Igor Kochetkov stated that witnesses had told his organisation of at least 15 men who had been handed back to their families, and have since disappeared without trace. Chechnyas irascible President, Ramzan Kadyrov, has responded to the claims by stating there were no gays in Chechnya. Speaking to journalists from the HBO channel in July, he went further: If there are any gays take them away from us. To purify our blood, if there are any, take them. Chechen Muslim clerics meanwhile turned their fire on journalists, threatening Elena Milashina, the investigative journalist who broke the story, with retribution. She spent some time in hiding, but was present at todays press conference. While Russia itself is not known to be especially friendly to LGBT communities, a vibrant gay scene exists in Moscow and St Petersburg. In the largely Muslim republic of Chechnya, however, homosexuality remains taboo. As such, the men caught up in the anti-gay purge are at risk as much for their own families as from the local authorities. Thats what makes their situation so utterly desperate, says Ms Lokshina. Mr Lapunov is exceptional in being the only non-Chechen believed to have fallen victim to the anti-gay campaign. He has no immediate Chechen family who would be put at risk. This is what allows him to come forward, despite the dangers, said Ms Lokhsina at the press conference. It seems that local security officials were alerted to his presence in Chechnya through links he had made with local gay men. They were apparently unaware he was not Chechen. Human rights activists say they do not expect ethnic Chechens to follow Mr Lapunovs lead. That will not happen until adequate security guarantees have been made for victims. So far, these guarantees have not been forthcoming. Russian authorities have been sluggish in their response, emphasising the lack of formal witnesses to the crime. On Friday, the Kremlins Human Rights Ombudswoman Tatyana Moskalkova made a surprise statement confirming that a man had come forward. I confirm there is a man, a complainant, she told the Interfax news agency. As soon as we complete our investigations, I can give more information. It is believed Ms Moskalkova was prompted to make the statement in the knowledge of todays press conference. In private, human rights activists say they have been impressed by Ms Moskalkovas dedication to the case. However, they say she is hamstrung by a limited mandate. She cannot provide guarantees that is the remit the security services, said one, speaking off the record. And they are less keen to help. A poster carrying an anti-government message is seen on the ground after a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in Sliema, Malta, October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi A woman places a candle on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. A woman reads a letter to investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, assassinated in a car bomb attack, on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against her murder, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi A man places a candle on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi A man attends a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi Opposition and Nationalist Party leader Adrian Delia attends a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi People react during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi People place candles on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi A letter to investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, assassinated in a car bomb attack on Monday, is seen on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against her murder, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia attends a press conference in Valletta, Malta January 28, 2015. Investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia was killed after a bomb blew up a car killing her in Bidnija, Malta, on October 16, 2017. Picture taken January 28, 2015. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi Daphne Caruana Galizia, Malta's best-known investigative journalist, was killed on Monday when a powerful bomb blew up her car, police said, in a case that stunned the small Mediterranean island. Caruana Galizia, 53, ran a hugely popular blog in which she relentlessly highlighted cases of alleged high-level corruption targeting politicians from across party lines. "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate," she wrote in a blog published on her site just half an hour before an explosion tore into her car. Locals said Caruana Galizia had just left her house and was on a road near the village of Bidnija in northern Malta when the bomb detonated, sending her car flying into an adjacent field. Expand Close A woman places a candle on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A woman places a candle on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who faced accusations of wrong-doing by Caruana Galizia earlier this year, denounced her killing, calling it a "barbaric attack on press freedom". He announced that the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had agreed to help local police investigate the killing and was flying experts to the island as soon as possible. Expand Close A man attends a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A man attends a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi "I will not rest until I see justice done in this case," he said in a statement, calling for national unity. Around 3,000 people held a silent, candle-lit vigil on Tuesday evening in Sliema, just outside Valletta. The hashtag Je Suis Daphne circulated widely among social media users on the island of 400,000 people, the European Union's smallest state. "Everyone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way," Muscat said. "The only remedy for anyone who felt slandered was through the courts." Muscat sued Caruana Galizia after she wrote blogs earlier this year saying his wife was the beneficial owner of a company in Panama, and that large sums of money had been moved between the company and bank accounts in Azerbaijan. Both Muscat and his wife denied the accusations. Expand Close People react during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp People react during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi Looking for a vote of confidence to counter the allegations, Muscat called snap elections in June which he easily won. Recently, Caruana Galizia's outspoken blog had turned its fire on opposition politicians. Malta Television reported that Caruana Galizia had filed a complaint to the police two weeks ago to say she had received threats. It gave no further information. Expand Close People place candles on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp People place candles on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in a car bomb attack, in St Julian's, Malta, October 16, 2017. REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi Opposition leader Adrian Delia said the blogger was the victim of a "political murder". "Caruana Galizia revealed the Panama Papers and was the government's strongest critic," he said, calling for a independent probe of her killing. "We will not accept an investigation by the Commissioner of Police, the Army commander or the duty magistrate, all of whom were at the heart of criticism by Caruana Galizia," he said. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange said he would offer a 20,000 euro ($23,578.00) reward for information leading to the conviction of Caruana Galizia's killers, and European politicians expressed dismay at her death. Frans Timmermans, first vice president of the European Commission, tweeted that he was "shocked and outraged", adding that "if journalists are silenced our freedom is lost". Manfred Weber, head of the conservative bloc in the European Parliament, said the killing marked "a dark day for democracy". Caruana Galizia took aim at politicians and senior officials from across Malta, seeing the island as a hotbed of corruption. "Malta's public life is afflicted with dangerously unstable men with no principles or scruples," she wrote last year. Her family asked that the magistrate assigned to investigate the case, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, be substituted because of an alleged conflict of interest, court documents showed. Herrera had sought libel damages after Caruana Galizia attacked her in her blog. A leading Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers has been assassinated with a bomb planted in her car. Daphne Caruana Galizia (53) had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Malta's main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicle's wreckage spiralling over a wall and into a field. Ms Caruana Galizia's death resulted from a "barbaric attack" that also amounted to an assault on freedom of expression, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. He described her as "one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level" as he denounced her slaying. One of the topics the veteran reporter examined was what the documents from the 2016 leak said about Malta. She wrote that Mr Muscat's wife, the country's energy minister and the government's chief-of-staff had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. Ms Caruana Galizia filed a police report two weeks ago saying she was receiving threats. The slain journalist had been a regular columnist for 'The Malta Independent', writing twice-weekly for the newspaper since 1996. She also wrote a blog called "Running Commentary". A half-hour before she was killed she posted to her web site an item about a libel claim the prime minister's chief of staff had brought against a former opposition member over comments the latter made about corruption. Expand Close Forensic experts examine the scene of the powerful car bomb that killed investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in Bidnija, Malta. Photo: REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Forensic experts examine the scene of the powerful car bomb that killed investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in Bidnija, Malta. Photo: REUTERS/Darrin Zammit Lupi Ms Caruana Galizia herself had been sued for libel over articles she wrote for her blog. Opposition leader Adrian Delia sued her over stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London. Economy minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote that he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband and three sons. The World Editors Forum and WAN-IFRA have condemned the killing. "We condemn this shocking attack, which targeted not just one of our bravest and brightest but also our very mission as truth seekers," said David Callaway, president of the World Editors Forum. People wave Esteladas (Catalan separatist flag) during a gathering to protest against the imprisonment of leaders of two of the largest Catalan separatist organizations, Catalan National Assembly's Jordi Sanchez and Omnium's Jordi Cuixart, who were jailed by Spain's High Court, in Barcelona, Spain October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Ivan Alvarado Catalonia refused on Tuesday to bow to the Spanish government's demand that it renounce a symbolic declaration of independence, setting it on a political collision course with Madrid later this week. Madrid has threatened to put Catalonia, which accounts for a fifth of Spain's economy, under direct central rule if its regional government does not abandon independence by Thursday. Read More But Catalonia's government rejected Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's deadline. "Giving in forms no part of this government's scenarios," Catalan government spokesman Jordi Turull said. "On Thursday, we won't give anything different than what we gave on Monday." Spain's biggest political crisis in decades worsened on Monday night when Madrid's High Court jailed the heads of Catalonia's two main separatist groups pending an investigation for alleged sedition. The Catalan government accused Madrid of taking "political prisoners" and tens of thousands of protesters gathered along Barcelona's Diagonal Avenue to call for their release. People held up lighted candles, whistled and shouted "freedom" and "out with the occupying forces". "There should not be political prisoners in a democratic country in the 21st century. This country is not democratic. I'm here to support democracy," said Alicia Cabreriza, a 26-year-old computer programmer from Barcelona. Expand Close Protesters hold candles and banners during a protest against the decision of the Spanish High Court to remand in custody two Catalan separatist leaders Jordi Sanchez of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium's Jordi Cuixart in Barcelona, Spain October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Albert Gea / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Protesters hold candles and banners during a protest against the decision of the Spanish High Court to remand in custody two Catalan separatist leaders Jordi Sanchez of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium's Jordi Cuixart in Barcelona, Spain October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Albert Gea Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont, in a tweet following the detentions, said: "Sadly, we have political prisoners again." The phrase was an allusion to the military dictatorship under Francisco Franco, when Catalan culture and language were systematically suppressed. It carries an emotional resonance given fascism is still a living memory for many Spaniards. Justice Minister Rafael Catala hit back, saying the jailing of the leaders of the separatist groups, the Catalan National Assembly and Omnium, was a judicial, not a political, decision. "We can talk of politicians in prison but not political prisoners," he said. "These are not political prisoners because yesterday's prison ruling was due to a (suspected) crime." The crisis has deepened divisions at the heart of Spain's young democracy, underlining the complex sense of nationhood in the euro zone's fourth largest economy. In Madrid, unionists drape their homes in the national flag, while Barcelona apartment buildings are festooned with Catalan flags. Street protests of hundreds of thousands of people have been held on both sides of the divide, including in Catalonia. "They've crossed a line," said Eulalia Lopez, a 54-year-old office worker in Barcelona. She said she and her colleagues would come out onto the streets if Madrid went ahead and took control of the region. Four Seasons, Britains second biggest care homes operator, has put forward proposals for a partial debt for equity swap as part of a major restructure aimed at putting the group on a secure financial footing. The company, owned by City financier Guy Handss private equity vehicle Terra Firma, is in discussions over plans that would see its lenders take control of a 20% stake in the group in exchange for waiving some of their debt. The companys lenders are thought to include the US investment giant H/2 Capital Partners. Four Seasons, which is struggling under 525 million of debt and faces interest payments of more than 50 million a year, is also proposing to restructure its borrowings. Under the new scheme, not only will the groups debt be reduced by 115 million, half of the interest payments on 350 million of its borrowings will have the option to be rolled up and paid as a lump sum in 2021. This would give it breathing space in the intervening years to invest in the business. Four Seasons would also bundle 24 profitable homes that it acquired into its core business in order to beef up the security on its loans. The firm, which houses 17,000 elderly residents across 335 homes, has seen its financial performance deteriorate in recent years. Expand Close Guy Hands McDonalds deal / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Guy Hands McDonalds deal It has been stung by a cut in local authority fees, rising costs and the introduction of the national living wage and the group has continuously warned over its long term stability. As part of efforts to ease the pressure, Four Seasons is also in discussions with landlords over lease renegotiations on some of its care homes. Four Seasons chairman Robbie Barr said there will be no impact on operations including for residents and staff as a result of the announcement. Justin King, the former Sainsburys chief executive who is now vice chairman of Terra Firma, said: The proposals on debt, if agreed, will give the business the secure financial footing it needs to continue the good progress made by management in the last two years. This ultimately will provide stability for all stakeholders including, most importantly, residents and their families. Mr Hands is best known for his 2007 takeover of EMI, the record label that signed The Beatles. The deal ended in disaster when he was forced to hand the business over to lender Citigroup four years later. Andrea Sutcliffe, chief inspector of adult social care the Care Quality Commission, said: The announcement today will, I am sure, provoke some anxiety but is an important step in securing the long-term financial future of this company. Through our Market Oversight responsibilities, CQC is monitoring the situation closely and currently there is no reason to believe that the day-to-day provision of care within Four Seasons Health Care Group will adversely change as a result of todays announcement. This image made from a video shows Iraqi soldiers in the Qatash area south of Kirkuk, Iraq (APTN via AP) Kurdish forces lost more territory in Iraq on Tuesday, withdrawing from the town of Sinjar a day after Iraqi forces pushed them out of the disputed city of Kirkuk. Meanwhile, thousands of civilians were seen streaming back to Kirkuk, driving along a main road to the city's east. The Kurdish forces had built an earthen barrier along the road, reinforced by armoured vehicles, but were allowing civilians to return to the city. Many returnees were seen with their children and belongings packed tight in their cars. The Iraqi forces' retaking of Kirkuk came only two weeks after they had fought together with the Kurdish fighters to neutralise the Islamic State group in Iraq, their common enemy. As Kirkuk's Arab and Turkmen residents on Monday evening celebrated the change of power, thousands of Kurdish residents, fearful of federal and Shiite militia rule, packed the roads north to Irbil, the capital of the northern autonomous Kurdish region. On Tuesday, they were going back. When Iraq's armed forces crumbled in the face of an advance by Islamic State group in 2014, Kurdish forces moved into Kirkuk to secure the city and its surrounding oil wells though it was 20 miles outside the Kurds' autonomous region in northeast Iraq. Baghdad has since insisted Kirkuk and its province be returned to the central government, but matters came to a head when the Kurdish authorities expanded their referendum last month to include Kirkuk. To the Iraqi central government, that looked like Kurdish expansionism. The city of more than one million is home to Arabs, Kurds and Turkmen, as well as Christians and Sunni and Shiite Muslims. By midday on Monday, federal forces had moved into several major oil fields north of the city, as well as the Kirkuk airport and an important military base, according to Iraqi commanders. Kurdish party headquarters inside Kirkuk had been abandoned. In the predominantly Yazidi town of Sinjar, Masloum Shingali, commander of the local Yazidi militia, said Kurdish forces had left before dawn on Tuesday, allowing Iraqi Shiite militiamen to move in. The Yazidis were massacred by the Islamic State group when the jihadis seized the town in 2014. More than 2,000 were killed, and thousands of women and children were taken into slavery. Kurdish forces, supported by US air strikes, liberated the town in 2015. Town mayor Mahma Khalil said the Iranian-supported Popular Mobilisation militia forces were securing Sinjar. The militias are recognized by Iraq's government as a part of its armed forces but are viewed with deep suspicion by the country's Kurdish authorities, which see them as an instrument of Tehran. The Kurdish forces "left immediately, they didn't want to fight", Mr Shingali said. The Shiite militia had supported Iraqi forces' to oust Kurdish troops out of Kirkuk. The Kurdish forces withdrew to their autonomous region in the northeast. AP US District Judge Derrick Watson blocked the Trump administration from enforcing its latest travel ban, just hours before it was set to take effect (George Lee /The Star-Advertiser via AP, File) A judge in Hawaii has blocked the latest version of the Trump administration travel ban just hours before it was set to take effect. US District Judge Derrick Watson on Tuesday granted Hawaii's request to temporarily block the government from enforcing the policy. The Trump administration in September announced the restrictions affecting citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen - and some Venezuelan government officials and their families. Hawaii argues the updated ban is a continuation of President Donald Trump's "promise to exclude Muslims from the United States". Other courts are considering challenges to the policy. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions in the president's latest proclamation. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland have challenged the policy before US District Judge James Robart in Seattle, who struck down Mr Trump's initial ban in January. That policy led to chaos and confusion at airports nationwide and triggered several lawsuits, including one from Hawaii. When Mr Trump revised the ban, state Attorney General Doug Chin changed the lawsuit to challenge that version. In March, Judge Watson agreed with Hawaii that it amounted to discrimination based on nationality and religion. A subsequent US Supreme Court ruling allowed the administration to partially reinstate that 90-day ban on visitors from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and a 120-day ban on all refugees. But it said the policy did not apply to refugees and travellers with a "bona fide relationship" with a person or entity in the US. Hawaii then successfully challenged the government's definition of which family members would be allowed into the country. Judge Watson ordered the government not to enforce the ban on close relatives such as grandparents, grandchildren, uncles and aunts. The judge's order on Tuesday prevents acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson from implementing the latest travel ban. Judge Watson said he would set an expedited hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order should be extended. He found Trump's executive order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor". The judge, appointed by former President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling that found Mr Trump's previous ban exceeds the scope of his authority. The latest version "plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation," the judge wrote. The government has said the new policy was based on an objective assessment of each country's security situation and willingness to share information with the US. The White House blasted the judge's decision, calling his order "dangerously flawed". White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said the Hawaii decision "undercuts the president's efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States". She said the restrictions are "vital" to ensuring foreign nations comply with US security standards. Justice Department spokesman Ian Prior said it will appeal against the ruling "in an expeditious manner". Iraqi federal forces seized the contested city of Kirkuk from Kurdish forces almost unopposed yesterday, in a stunning reversal of fortunes for Iraq's Kurds. The loss of the city and its nearby oilfields is a massive blow to dreams of independence for the Kurds, who last month held an independence referendum in anticipation of entering secession talks with Baghdad. "We took Kirkuk easily," a lieutenant in the Iraqi federal police emergency response division said by phone. "We are all brothers. There were not problems, some of the Kurdish Peshmerga even took pictures with me," said the 27-year-old, who gave his first name as Moqtader. The Kurdistan regional government's security council reported that "Iraqi forces and Iranian-backed popular mobilisation forces" attacked in "a major, multi-pronged operation" that deployed "US military equipment, including Abrams tanks and Humvees". Most Peshmerga forces withdrew from the contested city without fighting, after Baghdad issued the Kurds with an ultimatum to pull back to pre-2014 positions. Long columns of armoured vehicles and pick-up trucks filled with Kurdish fighters withdrew from positions around the city yesterday, jamming roads already crowded with fleeing Kurdish civilians who said they felt abandoned, and feared Shia militias entering the city. "They cheated us and we've been betrayed," Kawa Mustafa Mohamed shouted from his car as he and his family waited in heavy traffic to leave the city. "I don't know where I'm going now but my father was killed by the Iraqis and I don't want that to happen to my family." Left behind were disorganised bands of enraged Kurdish gunmen who vowed to defend the city. "Only us volunteers fought, not the Peshmerga," said Hardi Farouk, a 27-year-old in bleached blue jeans clutching an AK-47 rifle in south Kirkuk. The prospect of a new civil war in the ethnically mixed city is a potential boon for Isil. Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a former British army officer now advising the Kurdish Peshmerga, said: "The greatest evil everywhere is Isil. It's the defeat of Islamic State that is key. The trouble is, people in Iraq believe the fight against Isil is over, and that it's focused in Syria, but there are still pockets in Iraq." Kurdish forces have controlled Kirkuk since 2014, when federal forces abandoned their defences ahead of an Isil advance across northern Iraq. Since then, the Kurds have exported oil from Kirkuk fields - some 350,00 barrels of oil per day - a critical contribution to their economy since Baghdad stopped budget payments to the region following a dispute over oil revenues in 2015. In recent weeks, Baghdad stepped up demands for the return of Kirkuk and its oilfields after the Kurds held a disputed referendum on independence. Haider al-Abadi, prime minister of Iraq, said the military operation was in the interests of Iraqi citizens: "We assure our people in Kurdistan, and in Kirkuk in particular, that we are keen on their safety and best interest." ( Daily Telegraph, London) Somali security forces and others gather and search for bodies near destroyed buildings at the scene of Saturday's blast (AP) More than 300 people were killed in the weekend truck bombing in Somalia's capital and scores remain missing as the fragile Horn of Africa nation reeled from one of the world's worst attacks in years. Mogadishu's Aamin Ambulance service tweeted that the death toll has risen to 302, citing different medical institutions. As funerals continued, the government said the death toll is expected to rise. Nearly 400 people were injured as Saturday's bombing targeted a crowded street in Mogadishu. Somalia's government blamed the al Qaida-linked al-Shabab, although the Islamic extremist group has not claimed the attack. A new statement by the SITE Intelligence Group said al-Shabab had posted claims of responsibility as recently as Monday for other attacks on Somali and African Union forces, but not for Saturday's blast. Analysts still believe there is little doubt the Islamic extremist group carried out the bombing, one of the deadliest in sub-Saharan Africa. "No other group in Somalia has the capacity to put together a bomb of this size, in this nature," said Matt Bryden, a security consultant on the Horn of Africa. Nearly 70 people remain missing, based on accounts from relatives, said police Captain Mohamed Hussein. He said many bodies were burned to ashes in the attack. More than 70 critically injured people were airlifted to Turkey for treatment as international aid began to arrive, officials said, as o verwhelmed hospitals in Mogadishu struggled to treat badly wounded victims, many burned beyond recognition. Africa's deadliest Islamic extremist group, al-Shabab has waged war in Somalia for more than a decade, often targeting high-profile areas of the capital. Earlier this year, it vowed to step up attacks after both the Trump administration and Somalia's recently elected Somali-American president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, announced new military efforts against the group. After Saturday's attack, Mr Mohamed declared three days of mourning and joined thousands of people who responded to a plea by hospitals to donate blood. Countries including Kenya and Ethiopia have offered to send medical aid in response to what Somali's government called a "national disaster", information minister Abdirahman Osman said. A plane carrying a medical team from Djibouti arrived to evacuate the wounded, according to health ministry official Mohamed Ahmed. It was the second team of foreign doctors to arrive in Mogadishu. Mogadishu, a city long accustomed to deadly bombings by al-Shabab, was stunned by the force of Saturday's blast. The explosion shattered hopes of recovery in an impoverished country left fragile by decades of conflict, and it again raised doubts over the government's ability to secure the seaside city of more than two million people. AP US soldier Bowe Bergdahl faces life in prison after pleading guilty to desertion and "misbehaviour" in Afghanistan that left him a Taliban captive for five years. "I understand that leaving was against the law," said Sgt Bergdahl, whose decision to walk off his remote post in Afghanistan in 2009 prompted intense search and recovery missions, during which some of his comrades were seriously wounded. Sgt Bergdahl (31) is accused of endangering his comrades by abandoning his post without authorisation. He told a general after his release from five years in enemy hands that he did it with the intention of reaching other commanders and drawing attention to what he saw as problems with his unit. The prosecution made no agreement to limit Sgt Bergdahl's punishment in return for the soldier's guilty pleas. He may be hoping for leniency. Misbehaviour carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, while desertion is punishable by up to five years. The guilty pleas bring the politicised saga closer to an end eight years after Sgt Bergdahln. Former president Barack Obama, who approved the prisoner swap that brought Sgt Bergdahl home in 2014, said the US did not leave its service members on the battlefield, but he was roundly criticised by Republicans. Campaigning for the presidency, Donald Trump repeatedly called Sgt Bergdahl a "dirty, rotten traitor" and suggested he deserved to be executed by firing squad or thrown out of a plane without a parachute. Sgt Bergdahl's sentencing hearing is scheduled to begin on October 23. The soldier's case was the subject of the celebrated US podcast 'Serial' in its second series. Joshua Boyle speaks to the media after arriving with his wife and three children to Toronto Pearson International Airport, nearly 5 years after he and his wife were abducted in Afghanistan in 2012 by the Taliban-allied Haqqani network, in Toronto. REUTERS/Mark Blinch A Canadian man who was recently rescued from Taliban-tied kidnappers thought his captors were joking when they told him Donald Trump is president. It didnt enter my mind that he was being serious, Joshua Boyle, who was rescued alongside his wife and three children in Pakistan after five years imprisonment, told the Toronto Star. Mr Boyle was surprised to hear that Mr Trump had been elected even before he and his wife were forced to film a proof-of-life video that was sent to investigators and their family. The Canadian was kidnapped by the Haqqani network in the summer of 2012 along his American wife, Caitlan Coleman. Ms Coleman was pregnant with their first child when they were captured, and the couple had two other children while in captivity. The couple were hiking in Afghanistan at the time, on a backpacking trip that took them on an ambitious track from Russia, through several central Asian countries, and into Afghanistan. The couple, who have been described as avid adventurists, had acknowledged in emails to family that they knew the trip was dangerous. Expand Close A still image from a video posted by the Taliban on social media on December 19, 2016 shows American Caitlan Coleman (L) speaking next to her Canadian husband Joshua Boyle and their two sons. REUTERS / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A still image from a video posted by the Taliban on social media on December 19, 2016 shows American Caitlan Coleman (L) speaking next to her Canadian husband Joshua Boyle and their two sons. REUTERS They were rescued last week after a dramatic car chase near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. After US drones hovering near the structures where they were being held, their captors stuffed the couple and their children into the trunk of a car to move them. After that vehicle refused to stop for Pakistani security officials, a chase ensued until the security forces were able to shoot out the tires of the vehicle. The captors in the vehicle were all killed during the shooting. Read More The details that have emerged from their time in captivity are harrowing. After their abduction, the Haqqani-network members reportedly repeatedly raped Ms Coleman, and killed one of their infant children. The birth of a fourth child was not previously known before the rescue. After arriving home in Canada, Mr Boyle told reporters that his children were experiencing many luxuries of the western world for the first time. They had never seen a toilet before, and had used buckets all their lives. Theyd never seen real doors, he said, aside from the kind that slam in your face to lock you in. When they landed at each airport, the children asked hopefully if they were their new home, he said. Expand Close U.S. President Donald Trump. Photo: Reuters / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp U.S. President Donald Trump. Photo: Reuters Read More But, Mr Boyle has also refused to praise the US, and its foreign policy. He reportedly refused to border a US plane headed toward an American base where abuse of prisoners has been alleged. He has also said that the State Department does not have the same objectives as he, personally, does. The US government says that several other Americans are still being held in custody by militant groups in Afghanistan or Pakistan. They include Kevin King, 60, a teacher at American University of Afghanistan in Kabul, who was abducted in August of last year. Paul Overby, an author in his 70s, also disappeared in eastern Afghanistan in 2014. A teenager has been charged with assault after she allegedly performed unlicensed cosmetic surgery on a woman in the basement of her home. Jingyi Wang (19) botched a "face filler" procedure performed illegally on a patient who responded to an advert she had placed in a restaurant, police in the Canadian city of Toronto, said The woman developed an infection and weeks later, required corrective surgery from a licensed surgeon. After she tipped off police, officers raided Ms Wang's clinic last week. Detectives believe the teen may have operated on other people who responded to the advert, which saw her tout her services under the name "Dr Kitty". It began appearing in April. Although it was very vague in terms of what was being advertised, it featured a code that people could scan with a mobile phone for more information, police constable Allyson Douglas-Cook told the Toronto Star. She added: Who knows how many other establishments this ad is placed in? Its quite discreet how it is, so theres a possibility that there may be others and a very high likelihood that there may have been others who would have responded to this ad and sought the services of this person. She said the victim police were aware of was a similar age to Ms Wang. The teenager appeared at the Ontario Court of Justice in Toronto charged with aggravated assault. She is scheduled to appear again in court next month. Robin Wright and Kevin Spacey as Claire and Frank Underwood in House of Cards, which helped inspire trolls A former employee of the Russian "troll factory" that bought thousands of Facebook ads during the US presidential election has revealed how he wrote comments on Western news sites to ridicule Hillary Clinton and inflame political divisions. A young man quoted under the pseudonym 'Maksim' told independent channel TV Rain about the trolls' mission to meddle in US politics and wage an "information war" against the country. "Our goal wasn't to turn Americans toward Russia. Our goal was to set Americans against their own government," he said. "To provoke unrest, provoke dissatisfaction, lower (Barack) Obama's rating." Maksim's records listed his employer as Internet Research Agency, the "troll factory" in St Petersburg that Facebook said had purchased 3,000 ads around the time of the election, reaching 10 million people with politically charged content. Leaked emails have linked the agency to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a restaurateur known as "Putin's chef" for his close ties to the Kremlin. Twitter and Google have said Russian agents also targeted their platforms. Maksim and the trolls in his department made 50,000 roubles (740) a month posting tens of thousands of comments on Western media sites like 'The New York Times' and 'Washington Post', he said. Having honed their English watching 'House of Cards', they would receive spreadsheets with links to articles and instructions on "what we needed to write about them to blow up the discussion". Some employees even travelled to the United States. He worked at the agency until early 2015, a time when Ms Clinton was already the clear front-runner for the Democratic Party nomination. "Everything was always bad about Hillary Clinton; we bashed her. For her leaked emails, for the fact that she's rich," he said. "The main message was, 'aren't you, my American brothers, tired of the Clintons, how much of them you've had already?' The corruption scandals were put in there as well." Ms Clinton told Channel 4 this week that Russia's "massive propaganda effort" in support of Donald Trump was one of the reasons she lost. Maksim said he most often tried to rile religious Americans with comments about guns and gays. His comments echoed recent reports that Russians were behind shuttered groups like LGBT United and Tea Party News. Across from his workspace was the Facebook department, which created fake groups and left hundreds of English-language comments every shift. Facebook sometimes banned their accounts, he said, suggesting it was aware of the troll problem as early as 2014. Maksim also made phony Facebook accounts to comment on news sites. "You needed to develop the account, add friends, upload photos, think up a name and a history," he said. "Over a few weeks you could do this really well." ( Daily Telegraph, London) Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022] Fairytales are not known for beginning in a Washington DC nightclub, but for one American woman it was where she met the Ethiopian prince who would go on to become her husband. Ariana Austin, now 33, was on a night out with a friend when they were approached by Joel Makonnen in the Pearl nightclub. I said: You guys look like an ad for Bombay Sapphire', he told The New York Times about their first encounter. Not even five minutes later I said: 'You're going to be my girlfriend'. What he didn't reveal that night 12-years ago, was that plain old Joel was actually Prince Joel, the great-grandson of Haile Selassie I, Ethiopia's last emperor. But after the couple started dating seriously, Mr Makonnen, who works as a lawyer, eventually revealed his royal heritage. Born in Rome, his parents Prince David Makonnen and Princess Adey Imru Makonnen, had been forced to live in exile after a communist coup in his homeland. His father had escaped the bloodshed in his homeland because he was studying abroad at the time. The family subsequently settled in Switzerland. Mr Makonnen is related to Haile Selassie I through the emperors second son Prince Makonnen. Haile Selassie was the 225th and last in the line of King of the Kings of Ethiopia, ruling the east African country for 40 years until he was overthrown in 1974. He died the following year of circulatory failure though many believe he had been murdered days earlier. Art's curator, Ms Austin told the newspaper it is an unbeatable heritage and history that combines sheer black power and ancient Christian tradition. The royal family traces its roots back to the Biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. The pair married in a lavish Ethiopian Orthodox Christian wedding with 13 priests, two crowns and a pair of capes on September 9. The City watchdog has bowed to pressure from MPs for independent legal scrutiny of a controversial report into mistreatment of small businesses at Royal Bank of Scotland. Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) chief executive Andrew Bailey has agreed to a proposal from the Treasury Select Committee to appoint a legal adviser to compare the regulators soon-to-be published summary with the underlying report into the scandal at RBSs controversial restructuring unit. The move comes after the committee headed by new chairwoman Nicky Morgan last week wrote to Mr Bailey threatening to use its formal powers to demand publication of the leaked report if its request was denied or if it was not happy with the findings. Expand Close Andrew Bailey / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Andrew Bailey In response, Mr Bailey agreed to give the summary and full report to the legal adviser set to be Andrew Green QC to assess whether it is a fair and balanced summary. But he stressed in a letter to Ms Morgan that this would be an exceptional case and does not establish a precedent. Following a review by the committees adviser and the FCAs own legal adviser, the regulator will publish a final account. Ms Morgan said: The advisers will now start their work and report to the committee before Mr Baileys appearance at the end of the month. If the advisers report does not provide the committee with the assurances it needs, it will decide whether any further steps are required. There is no good reason for the committees review to delay the FCA from publishing its summary as soon as possible. Expand Close Nicky Morgan / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Nicky Morgan The FCA has so far refused the committees demands to publish the report in full, claiming it would reveal confidential information about individuals, and has instead offered a detailed summary. The committee intervened in the saga last month, calling for publication of the report into misconduct at the banks Global Restructuring Group (GRG) following a leak to the BBC in August. Mr Bailey pushed back, saying that publishing the skilled persons or Section 166 review which collects insight about a firms activities from third parties would mean revealing confidential information about the individuals who contributed to it. But in his latest letter to Ms Morgan, he said the report and confidential information can be seen by legal advisers using a so-called self-help gateway. He also insisted the legal adviser takes into account the justification and reasonableness for why some information from the full report cannot be included in the summary. The committees calls for publication have echoed those by the SME Alliance and lawyers suing RBS on behalf of businesses affected by the scandal which allegedly saw RBSs turnaround unit intentionally push businesses towards failure in hopes of picking up their assets on the cheap. The study was commissioned by the regulator almost four years ago as part of its inquiry into the GRG, and while the FCA pledged last November to publish a full account from the skilled persons report, it has so far refused to make it public. The FCA also has yet to decide whether the case requires a formal investigation. Thousands of Rohingya are continuing to flee violence and persecution in Burma and crossing into Bangladesh, where more than half a million others are already living in squalid and overcrowded camps, according to witnesses and drone footage shot by the UN office for refugees. The UNHCR video shot Monday shows thousands of Rohingya trudging along a narrow strip of land alongside what appears to a rain-swollen river in the Palong Khali area in southern Bangladesh. Witnesses said that a new wave of refugees started crossing the border over the weekend. An Associated Press photographer saw thousands of newcomers near one border crossing Tuesday. Several said that they were stopped by Bangladeshi border guards and spent the night in muddy rice fields. Local government administrator Mohammad Mikaruzzman said Tuesday that he heard some 20,000 people have arrived since Sunday, crossing the border on foot or by boat at several points. According to the UN some 537,000 Rohingya refugees have arrived in Bangladesh since violence erupted there on August 25. The exodus has continued, with a few small breaks, over the last eight weeks. The new arrivals, almost all terrified and starving, have described scenes of incredible violence, with army troops and mobs of Buddhist locals attacking Rohingya homes. The UN has described the violence in Burma's Rakhine state as "textbook ethnic cleansing". More recent refugees have also said the Rohingya were being starved in a bid to make them leave. A woman who spoke to The Associated Press on Tuesday after her arrival said they had had no food to eat. "We came here two nights ago with lot of difficulties. It took us eight days to reach here," said Anjuma, who gave just one name. Several refugees said Bangladesh border guards were not letting them move toward the refugee camps and they were forced to spend a night out in the open in pelting rain. AP Visiting Turkey's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, and his Polish host president Andrzej Duda, left, walking before the guard of honour (AP) Turkey's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged European Union leaders to simply say whether they want to accept Turkey as a member or not. Turkey's decades of efforts to join the 28-member European club seem to be stalled by the government's harsh reaction to a coup attempt last year. Tens of thousands of people have been arrested or dismissed from their jobs in Turkey since the July 15 2016 coup attempt. "I would like to hear a clear declaration," Mr Erdogan said on Tuesday during a visit to Poland. "If you want to accept Turkey, just do it. If you don't want to, just tell that." Polish president Andrzej Duda said Poland backs Turkey's effort to join the EU. "Poland has supported and supports today Turkey's efforts to join the European Union," Mr Duda said, standing along Mr Erdogan. "Turkey is an especially important EU partner in the area of security." Mr Duda said they had a "very long and honest" talk about the current situation in Turkey after the "dramatic situation" of last year's coup attempt. Earlier, Mr Erdogan was greeted in Poland with military honours. During the welcoming walk before Poland's military, Mr Erdogan missed the customary bow before the troop's banner and Mr Duda grabbed his elbow to make him return to the site. Mr Erdogan's planned meeting with prime minister Beata Szydlo was cancelled, her press office said, without saying why. Mr Erdogan was meeting with parliament speakers and was also planning to attend a Polish-Turkish business forum. Poland's small opposition left-wing Together party said Mr Erdogan should not be received with state honours because his government is "violating human rights." AP Fly north over the 38th parallel on the Korean peninsula at night and watch the Earth disappear into darkness. South Korea is a modern, vibrant and prosperous society; well-lit at night. North Korea by contrast is so backward that there is little light to be found outside of Pyongyang, the showboat capitol of the ruling Kim family. The first thing an American needs to know about the DPRK (Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea) is that were at war with them. Weve been at war with the regime since 1950. We agreed to a cease-fire in 1953, and since then the war has been limited to occasional pot shots across the no-mans-land between North and South. Weve never established an official peace. The Kim family, beginning with Kim Il-sung (Kim become the sun) has held an iron grip on power since 1948. So far, the elder Kimeven though he died in 1994has remained the country's president, the general-secretary of its ruling Worker's Party of Korea, and the chairman of the Party's Central Military Commission, the party's organization that has supreme supervision and authority over military matters. What do we call a nation ruled by a dead guy? A necrocracy? A thanatocracy? Partially because North Korea is an atheist state, a quasi-religious cult of personality has grown up around the Kim leadership. The trinity of the grandfather, father and son is eerily reflective of Christianitys tri-natured God; and speaks to the mystique of the familys hold on power. Kim Jong-il (Kim #2) was afraid to fly, so a fleet of six personal trains was built for the Dear Leader. Today, Kim Jong-un (Kim #3) visits his nineteen residences and various military centers using the same rail system. When Kim travels, there are three trains. The first. heavily armored and festooned with weapons, makes sure the track and route are secure. The second, also heavily armored, carries Kim and his closest associates and guards. It generally follows the first after a 20 to 60 minute interval, and carries communication technology that provides Kim a mobile military command and control center. The third train carries administrators, followers and extended family. The whole massive government-on-rails maintains a stately 37 miles-per-hour pace for safety. Much of the rail network was built during the Japanese occupation between 1910 and 1945. North Korea has been an arena of crisis for the United States for several generations. As such, its been amazingly durable as a point of fresh angst for Democratic and Republican administrations alike. The DPRK is in many ways a throw-back to a 17th century European imperial state with a hereditary dynasty divinely selected to rule its people. The sole raison detre of the state is keep the Kim family in power. To that end, the country has concentrated nearly its entire GDP (roughly one third that of Ethiopia) to bolstering a military of almost 9 and 1/2 million active and reserve men and women, plus weapon systems that include chemical, biological and newly emerging nuclear capability - an impressive, if unfortunate, achievement. Some military analysts believe that North Korea may have anywhere between 25 and 100 warheads by 2020 based on the rate of its stockpile growth and technological improvements. Its standing army is the fourth largest in the world, exceeded only by China, the United States and India. The North Koreans may well be the most confused people on Earth in the context of how they see their place in the world. Christopher Hitchens used to say theyre a nation of racist dwarfs. Despite the fact that the North Koreans average height is three inches shorter than their South Korean cousins, and more than six inches less than the average American, theyve been taught that they are a master race of super human beings. When they receive food relief from us, they regard it as an awe-struck offering to a superior entity. The height disparity can be traced to ongoing malnutrition, especially since 1972 when Juche, an ideology of national self-reliance was enshrined into the new constitution. The entire apparatus of food production, healthcare, housing and education is state-run or state-subsidized, although the government has tacitly allowed some black market activity to flourish in food production. With the current regime in power for almost 70 years, few North Koreans can remember a time when the country was not at war with the United States. They see active conflict with us as not only inevitable, but as the means by which the two Koreas will at last be re-united. The North Korean governments diplomatic intransigence and single-minded militarism has left America with perhaps four options as to how to proceed, all of which are bad. Option 1: preemptive attack The first option is an all-out military attack designed to pre-empt any retaliatory response by the DPRK. When considering such a plan we should keep in mind that the South Korean capitol of Seoul, with a population of 25 million is only 25 to 30 miles south of a massive battery of conventional and chemical artillery on hair trigger alert - aimed, locked and loaded. We must also remember that among recent North Korean military developments are miniaturized nuclear warheads pared with ICBMs capable of reaching the American mainland, currently Alaska. Even a best-case scenario with this first approach to the problem seems untenable. Think about it. Lets say we knock out their military capacity without a single return shot. Wed still have a basket case of a nation that we would have to feed, clothe and govern. And what would Chinas response be? Would they sit idly by with Olympian disinterest as we take control of the entire Korean peninsula with which they share an 880 mile border? Probably not. World War III is a distinctly possible outcome. Option 2: Limited attack The second option would be a more limited attack; one calibrated by military planners to scare the North Korean government into acquiescing to our demands to denuclearize and stand down from its destructive foreign policy. Pentagon planners willing to speak publicly on this point are pessimistic. We should ask how the North Koreans would know our intentions were limited. They would likely see the opening salvo (probably a cyber attack) as imminent annihilation and respond accordingly. Some of our planners also seem to accept massive retaliation on Seoul as a fait accompli; the only up side being a possible willingness to talk once the Norths venom has been spent. It seems a high price to pay for little promise of improvement. Option 3: Take out the leader The third option would be decapitation - killing the Leader. This is the sort of thing fans of Hollywood dark ops thrillers would think seriously about. But, the Kim family is protected by concentric circles of military and special forces-type security. Its a deeply suspicious and paranoid regime with all the caution and secret layers of nearly invincible protection that implies. And even if such an attack were doable, it would leave the armed forces entirely intact with who knows whom at the controls. Few see the viability in such a plan. Option 4: Accept them as a nuclear nation The fourth option is acceptance of North Korea as a member of the nuclear family of nations. This issue would seem less dangerous if we had been able to sign a peace accord with the North at some point. Any proliferation is a bad thing. Americas opposition to any increase in the worlds nuclear capacity rings hollow since unilateral disarmament on our part is perennially out of the question. Therein lies North Koreas reason for its dogged pursuit of nuclear technology. India and Pakistan come to mind in this context. Those two mutually hostile countries each hold about 140 nuclear devices. Many in the world hold the belief that an atomic exchange between them would leave the rest of the world largely unscathed. Well, for the sake of argument, forget about radioactive fallout for the moment. But, try to imagine the volume of smoke if Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi and Gujranwala with a combined population of 34 million people all burned at once. Now add Mumbai, Delhi, Bangladore, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad with a combined population of 46 million. The smoke would blot out enough sunlight to plunge us into a nuclear winter from which we might never recover. Roaches would inherit the Earth. Finally, to all the labyrinthine complication iterated above, add a U.S. president with an unpredictable mouth, no moral compass, no diplomatic experience or inclination, who brags hes never read a book. When he tweets threats of a personally insulting nature to a paranoid autocrat, and we have little idea how the translation into Korean resonates, is there any reason the world should not be alarmed? Gerry Dionne is a writer, musician and coffee table philosopher who moved to our area when he was 18. He's in his 70s now, so y'all give him a break. MISENHEIMER Pfeiffer University will host National Book Award Finalist Danez Smith for a reading in the Henry Pfeiffer Chapel Monday, Oct. 23, at 7 p.m. The event, which is sponsored by the Piedmont Institute for Communication, Music and Art and Pfeiffers English Department, is free and open to the public. A book signing will follow Smiths performance, and the university will have copies of the authors latest release, Dont Call Us Dead, as well as the 2015 collection Black Movie for sale. Cash and credit cards will be accepted. Smith, a black, queer American poet, writes about personal topics, such as love and loss, as well as HIV, and broader issues including sexuality, violence and race. Winner of a multitude of awards, such as the 2017 National Endowment for the Arts grant and the Lambda Literary Award for Gay Poetry, Smiths engaging work blends the performance of slam poetry with the craft of prose. Compelling and incendiary, Smiths latest book, Dont Call Us Dead, is one of this years most important releases. The work of Danez Smith reflects a turbulent environment worthy of thought and discussion, and Pfeiffer University is eager to welcome this conversation, said Dr. Marissa Schwalm, Assistant Professor of English and Faculty Advisor for Pfeiffers literary magazine, The Phoenix. Our English Department is delighted to welcome to campus such an esteemed poet as Danez Smith, added Dr. Ashley Oliphant, Pfeiffers Humanities Chair. It is especially exciting that our English majors and The Phoenix staff members will have the unique opportunity to share a meal and speak one-on-one with the author before the campus presentation begins. Meaningful moments like these bring the fine arts to life for our students and demonstrate for them the value of creativity and intellectual curiosity. October 23rd is going to be a thrilling night for the Humanities at Pfeiffer. Large groups are welcome at the event, and bus parking will be available, though groups of more than 25 are asked to notify the university about their attendance. Any questions should be forwarded to Schwalm at marissa.schwalm@pfeiffer.edu. On Oct. 4, a handful of Cabarrus County residents joined more than 100 activists from across the state to march through the streets of Raleigh with tape over their mouths to protest the General Assemblys recent redistricting law, Bill 717. The march, titled Stolen Votes and Silenced Voices, was organized by Citizens for Action NC, a grassroots organization based in Cabarrus County. Its unacceptable for party and power to perpetuate itself and eliminate opposing views, Gail Young, a Concord resident and director of Citizens for Action NC, said. That, friends, is not democracy; that is corruption. The North Carolina General Assembly has faced many accusations of gerrymandering in recent years, and the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled four times that the state has unconstitutionally manipulated its congressional elections. Were here today to tell our politicians to stop manipulating elections, Aylett Colston, an attorney, told the crowd. We want fair maps. We want fair elections. We want fair voting districts. We have voting districts so that in a community you can elect someone to represent the concerns of your community in the legislature. When it comes to enacting the laws and policies that affect your everyday life, different communities might have different interests. The whole reason we have voting districts is so that every North Carolinian can have a voice. Gerrymandering, Colston said, seeks to undermine that. The practice comes into play when politicians manipulate district lines to essentially split a particular group across several areas and dilute their voting power, giving advantage to a different grouptypically the party of the person in power. Colston said she frequently hears people ask why she is mad since the Democrats have done this in the past, as well. And yes, yes, they did, she said. Weve had gerrymandering in North Carolina since the 80s, the 1880s, and North Carolinians are sick of it. We are fed up. None of us care which party is doing it. No politicians should manipulate elections in a way that the voices of North Carolinians are silenced. Activists organized the march during the General Assemblys last special session of the year to cap off a summer spent protesting gerrymandering and, most recently, House Bill 717. The proposed legislation reorganizes the districts for North Carolina judges and draws the lines so that many current judgesmost of them Democratswould be competing for the same seat. Citizens in Action NC made several trips to Raleigh to lobby members of the Cabarrus County state delegation, urging the support of redistricting reform and advocating for legislation to establish a non-partisan commission to draw voting districts. They have delivered more than 370 signatures to Sen. Paul Newton from constituents who support redistricting reform. We have given up our summer to talk to voters, to drive down to Raleigh again and again, Doshia James, an organizer with the group, said. And our elected officials arent even listening to us. We have to show them that the voters want change, that were tired of hyper-partisanship. Many of the demonstrators expressed concerns about how the new districts disenfranchise racial minorities by sequestering them into Republican stronghold districts and moving judges out of their districts. Lekha Shupeck, a member of Together We Will NC, said that almost every stakeholder in the states judicial system opposes House Bill 717. The proposed law, she said, would put 33 percent of current Democratic superior court judges in the same district as another and just 9 percent of Republican judges. This partisan gerrymandering is intended to give Republicans control of North Carolinas judiciary and disenfranchise voters, Shupeck said. Urban communities with largely minority populations are losing the power to vote for judges who will preside over cases in their county and are going to receive fewer judicial resources overall. Courts are how ordinary citizens access justice. They handle divorces, child custody cases, small claims, juvenile cases, drug treatment court and many more matters that affect peoples everyday lives. The legislature will be in session for the next few weeks, and Citizens for Action NC hopes that they will take this opportunity to consider taking another look at the new districts. We demand the ability to hold our state representatives accountable, Young said. They should earn our votes, not steal them. State representatives Newton, Pittman and Johnson were all asked to participate in the press conference following the march, but none of them responded. Most cities of any size are salivating at the opportunity to land the big Amazon fish, including several in North Carolina angling to win the trophy. Jeff Bezos Seattle based company is shopping to locate a second headquarters site and the bait they are dangling is 50,000 new jobs and $5 billion in investments. Amazons list of desirables is extensive. They want to locate in a metropolitan area of more than 1 million, have nearby universities, on-site access to mass transit, a 45-minute or less commute to an international airport, major highway artery access, a diverse population and recreational opportunities. An all-out bidding competition, among cities offering Amazon economic incentives, has erupted. North Carolina hasnt done well in these big-game tournaments. Until 1993, our state didnt offer incentives other than roads, utility improvements and job training. Mercedes Benz changed all that. North Carolina made the short list to lure the carmaker, but lost out to Alabamas $300 million plus incentive package, an unheard of amount at that time. Earlier this year we were thought we were in the running for Foxconns $10 billion investment with thousands of jobs. Our state offered incentives of more than $570 million, but lost out to Wisconsins $3 billion incentives package. These ever escalating, high stakes incentives pageants are little more than a Robin Hood in reverse scenario. Bezos, Amazons principle owner, is reportedly worth more than $84 billion. North Carolinas leaders claim we dont have the wherewithal to build roads, fund schools and provide for those in need, yet we are willing to shell out a billion or more to give to those already wealthy. It is insane and the payback to taxpayers is problematic. Most all these big prospects will choose larger cities, further exacerbating our urban-rural problems as more move to the cities to take jobs. But rural areas wont be alone in suffering, as increased demands on the cities where the plants locate require higher taxes to improve congested roads, construct new schools, expand water and sewer utilities and other public amenities. Taxpayers pay on both ends. Too many times the companies weve offered these incentive packages fail live up to their promises, sometimes later pulling up and leaving, or laying off employees. Our state is littered with water and sewer systems built to accommodate now vacant textile operations, systems now unable to generate sufficient revenues to properly keep them maintained. Yes, we want more and better paying jobs for our people. Yes, we want to attract businesses with newer technologies and modern operations and yes, we want to make this a more desirable state in which to live. But we are neglecting those businesses that started and stayed here. Just think of the benefits we could enjoy if our leaders spent as much time and money helping small to medium-sized companies as we do chasing after these big fish. These companies create 7 out of 10 new jobs. This logic wont change the mindset of economic developers or politicians. Its sexy to announce and cut the ribbon on a big catch and get media headlines. But weve demonstrated the odds of landing the big ones are about as good as winning the sweepstakes. A safer bet is to help the small fish grow larger and that is no fish tale. Tom Campbell is former assistant North Carolina State Treasurer and is creator/host of NC SPIN, a weekly statewide television discussion of NC issues. Show airs in Charlotte on WCCB Sundays at 6:30 a.m. Can we trust the people who taught us our states history when we were growing up? Or do we have to turn to fiction writers to open the doors to a true version of North Carolinas past? In his 1997 Cold Mountain, Charles Frazier destroyed our glorious and heroic images of the Civil War, replacing them with visions of brutal conflict, hunger, mean-spiritedness, treachery, disappointment and desertion. Cape Fear Rising, Phillip Gerards 1994 fictional account of events in 1898, brought out the true facts of Wilmingtons nightmare racial conflict. Released this month, Wiley Cashs novel, The Last Ballad, set in 1929s Gaston Countys textile mill country, forces us to confront uncomfortable facts about the brutal conditions workers faced on the job and in their struggles to make a life on their meager pay. Ella May Wiggins, the lead character in Cashs book, is based on a real person, who was killed while participating in a major strike at Loray Mills in Gastonia. As Cash explains in the October issue of PineStraw magazine, the 28-year-old Wiggins had given birth to nine children and was working a 72-hour week for which she earned $9. She wrote and sang protest songs, some of which were later performed by Woody Guthrie. On the frame of this real character, Cash builds a moving story that puts readers in Wigginss shoes as she walks the two miles every evening from her hovel in Stumptown to American Textile Mill #2 in Bessemer City, works all night in the dirt and dust and clacking noise, and then walks back to tend to the children she had left alone the entire night. Cash follows her decision to support the strike at Loray Mills where her ballad singing at worker rallies mobilized audiences more than the speeches of union leaders. He relates how her actions provoked negative responses from union opponents that led to her death. Along the way we meet people who framed her life: her no-good husband John, her no-good boyfriend Charlie, the Goldberg brothers who ran the mill where she worked, her African American co-worker and neighbor Violet, the union strike leaders, a 12-year-old worker who loses half his hand when it caught in the mills machinery, and Wiggins children as they struggle through hunger and illness. The picture Cash paints is an ugly one, showing conditions of Wiggins and her fellow workers to be only a step or two away from serfdom and slavery. Education for the workers or their children was a pipe dream, as Wiggins explained to a fictionalized U.S. Senator Lee Overman, who had told a striker she should be in school. Let me tell you something, Wiggins shouted at Overman. I cant even send my own children to school. They aint got decent enough clothes to wear and I cant afford to buy them none. I make nine dollars a week, and I work all night and leave them shut up in the house all by themselves. I had one of them sick this winter and I had to leave her there just coughing and crying. Writing in PineStraw, Cash, who grew up in Gastonia, tries to explain what made writing about Wiggins so difficult. How could I possibly put words to the tragedies in her life and compress them on the page in a way that allowed readers to glean some semblance of her struggle? I am not sure how Cash did it, but what he put in words brought Wiggins and the oppressive times in which she lived into full focus. And those words and the story they tell confirm Cashs place in the pantheon of North Carolinas great writers. D.G. Martin hosts North Carolina Bookwatch, which airs Sundays at noon and Thursdays at 5 p.m. on UNC-TV. Preview the upcoming program on Preview the upcoming program on UNC-TVs North Carolina digital channel (Spectrum #1276) on Fridays at 8 p.m. This Thursdays (October 12) guest is John Grisham, author of Camino. Next weeks (October 15, 19) guest is Michele Tracy Berger, author of Reenu-You. The new Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime has brought about a slew of reforms to the indirect tax system, which affect firms doing business in India. One such change pertains to the introduction of reverse charge mechanism (RCM) and the taxation of import of services via RCM. What is RCM under GST? Usually, the registered supplier of goods or services is required to pay GST to the government after collecting the same from the recipient. RCM is a process used in case the supply of goods or services is by an unregistered supplier. In such transactions, the recipient is required to directly pay GST to the government instead of the unregistered supplier. It is important to note that in all cases subject to RCM, the recipient must be registered under GST. What qualifies as import of services under GST? Import of services under GST has been defined to mean the supply of any service where the supplier is located outside India, the recipient is located in India, and the place of supply of services is in India. In order to be taxable under GST, the import of services must be for a consideration, irrespective of whether it is used for business purposes. In case the import of services is made by a taxable person from a related party or from any of his or her establishments outside India in the furtherance of business, it shall be taxable even if such import is made without paying any consideration. How is total transaction value calculated for import of services under GST? In transactions involving import of services, the recipient often contractually agrees to compensate the supplier for the income tax payable by him for services rendered in India. In effect, the recipient ultimately pays the consideration for services as well as the income tax payable by the supplier. In this scenario, the question that arises is whether the tax paid by the recipient on behalf of the supplier forms a part of the total transaction value. The GST framework specifically clarifies that in such cases, any amount payable by the supplier, but which is incurred by the recipient and not included in the actual consideration for services, will be included while computing the total transaction value. Therefore, in case of RCM, the recipient has to pay GST on the net transaction value, that is, the consideration amount plus tax paid on behalf of the supplier. Firms engaged in importing services into India need to be cautious about various overhead compensation clauses in their contracts with service providers as the introduction of GST could significantly increase their tax liability by inflating the transaction value. Who pays RCM in case of e-commerce service providers? E-commerce firms providing services through the aggregator model will also have to pay tax via RCM. In such cases, the registered e-commerce operator will be responsible for paying GST to the government instead of service providers such as electricians, carpenters, plumbers, among others. If the e-commerce operator does not have a physical presence in India, then the operator must appoint a registered representative for the purpose of paying GST. Impact of RCM on doing business in India The RCM acts as a self-policing tool under the GST framework and aims to curb tax evasion by motivating firms to register themselves under GST and pay taxes. Since customers are typically averse to the idea of paying taxes directly to the government and undertaking all the associated paperwork and compliances, they will naturally prefer dealing exclusively with suppliers who are registered under GST. Hence, unregistered firms are likely to experience decreased revenues as a result of an eroding customer base. This mechanism is designed to ultimately force such unregistered firms to get registered and become GST compliant. At least 27 out of 29 are persons reportedly killed in early morning attacks at Nkyie-Doghwro community of Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State have been given a mass burial. The President, Irigwe Development Association, Sunday Abdu, said the victims were hacked to death in a classroom. Twenty-seven out of the 29 people were buried in one grave. We later found two other dead bodies. It is worrisome because the 27 people already buried were murdered in a classroom, given security cover by soldiers, where they supposedly sought refuge, he said. Mr. Abdu said this on Monday evening in Jos at the Nigeria Union of Journalists press centre during a press conference on the killings in Bassa Local Government. The killings in the council have continued despite a dusk to dawn curfew declared there on Friday by the state government. Mr. Abdu said seven communities have been attacked within one month adding that 41 persons have been killed in the attacks. The community leader expressed disappointment that the dusk to dawn curfew imposed on Bassa by the state government was not effective as the killings occurred within the period of curfew. In his reaction, President Muhammadu Buhari said that he received with deep sadness and regret, news of the recent killings which have been described as a reprisal attack perpetrated by suspected herdsmen. Mr. Buhari in a statement by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, on Monday said he believes that this madness has gone too far. Mr. Shehu said the president has instructed the military and the police to not only bring the violence to an instant end, but to draw up a plan to ensure that there are no further attacks and reprisal attacks by one group against the other. President Buhari is devoted to the sanctity of Nigerias unity, and he encourages Nigerians of all groups to learn to live together in peace and harmony, Mr. Shehu said. It also said the president commiserates with the governor and people of Plateau State, and with those who lost their loved ones, friends and family. May God comfort them as only He can, he said. In his reaction, the Northern chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria CAN, Yakubu Pam, described the Monday attack as one, too many. He sued for peace among warring factions, urging community leaders to intervene to stem the violence. Reacting to the development, the commander of Operation Safe Heaven, a military task force on Jos crisis, Anthony Atolagbe, said the Nigerian Army will investigate alleged involvement of soldiers in the killings. According to the commander, who visited the scene, the affected soldiers have been redeployed to the taskforce headquarters in Jos for questioning. The Irigwe Development Association had accused soldiers on guard of negligence. Source: ( Premium.Times ) A businessman has found himself in trouble after he allegedly duped Union Bank the sum of N335 million in Lagos state. A 47-year-old businessman, Henry Ekuase, has been brought before an lkeja Magistrates Court, Lagos State for allegedly defrauding Union Bank branch of Marina Stallion Plaza the sum of N335m. It was gathered that Henry had acquired the sum as a loan from the bank to trade in beverages. Punch reported that he was arraigned on Monday on three counts bordering on false pretences and fraud to which he pleaded not guilty. Speaking on the incident, the police prosecutor, Inspector N. Peter, said Henry committed the offence sometime in November 2016. He said the offence was contrary to and punishable under sections 285, 314(1)(a)(b)(2) and 322(3) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015. The charges read in part, That you, Henry Ekuase, sometime in 2016, at No. 36, Marina Stallion Plaza, Lagos Island, in the Lagos Magisterial District, with intent to defraud, did obtain N335,363,146.76 from Union Bank Nigeria Plc. with pretence of trading in Nestle products, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 314(1)(a)(b)(2) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015. That you, on the same date, time and place, in the aforementioned magisterial district, did issue Unity Bank Cheque number 002082091, dated May 31, 2016, for N900,000.00; cheque number 002082090, dated June 24, 2016, for N2,500,000.00, and cheque number 00208209, dated July 26, 2016, for N5,000,000.00; money that you fraudulently obtained from the bank and which was returned unpaid due to insufficient fund standing in the account, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 322(3) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015. The presiding magistrate, Mrs. Y.O. Aje-Afunwa, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N50m with two sureties in like sum. She said one of the sureties must be a resident within the jurisdiction of the court, adding that both sureties should provide evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government. The case was adjourned till December 6, 2017, for mention. A viral report on social media claims that 87-year-old second republic ex-lawmaker, Sen. Cyrus Nunieh, walked down the aisle today with his beautiful bride Ijeoma in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State. The wedding reception of Sen. Cyrus Nunieh who is the President of Bori State Movement and also the first lawyer in Ogoni land, is currently ongoing at the Hotel Presidential in Port-Harcourt. Here are more photos; The wife of the President, Aisha Bihari, on Monday paid an unscheduled visit to the State House Clinic in Abuja. Mrs. Buhari had last week attacked the management of hospital for their inability to provide basic drugs and equipment despite billions of naira proposed for the hospital in successive budgets. She said instead of providing badly needed essentials, the management chose to be constructing new building blocks. The Permanent Secretary in the State House, Jalal Arabi, said in a statement on Sunday that the hospital received only N1.2 billion within the last three years. Mrs. Buhari who arrived the hospital on Monday at about 2:30 p.m. was accompanied by some of her personal aides and was received by the Medical Director, Hussaini Munir. A source, who was at the hospital when Mrs. Buharis team arrived, said that the management took her round the Hospital showing her both the new and old buildings. Our source also said Mrs. Buhari had a short interaction with some of the staff before leaving the complex. Mrs. Buhari last week said she had to use the services of a private clinic owned by non-Nigerians after she was told that the X-Ray machine at the Aso Clinic is not functional. In the wake of the attack by the wife of the president, Mr. Arabi had said in a separate statement that the management is considering commercialising the hospital. Source: ( Premium Times ) The police in Ebonyi State have confirmed the rescue of a Catholic priest, Timothy Nwanja, abducted by gunmen in Okpokueze Nkomoro community, Imoho Development Centre, Ezza North Local Government Area of the State. Also rescued was the cook to the priest who was abducted with her boss. The priest escaped after his captors allegedly drank Holy Communion wine they stole from his house and slept off. This is even as the police said that they arrested one of the suspected kidnappers. Two of the kidnappers escaped but the police vowed to track them down. According to sources, the cleric, who serves at St. Marys parish, was kidnapped by three gunmen at about 8:30 p.m. on Sunday night in his residence. The police spokesperson in the state, Loveth Odah, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, who conformed the rescue, said that the police acting on tip-off, raided the criminals hideout. She narrated that the kidnappers sneaked into the priests room on Sunday while he was having his dinner and took him and his cook away. She said that the priests cook who had gone upstairs to get water from the refrigerator was first captured. When the priest heard the loud screaming, he ran upstairs to know what was going on and they also captured him. One of them was familiar with the area. They took him away in his own vehicle. They blindfolded him and tied his ears so that he would not be able to listen to their interaction. At a point, they separated the cook and the priest. They allowed the cook to go but it was a plot, she narrated. Mrs. Odah disclosed that the cleric had jumped out through the window of the uncompleted building where he was taken to after his three captors took Holy Communion wine and slept off. She said that the criminals had planned to request the sum a N100 million ransom from the Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese in the morning before they ran out of luck. Source: ( Punch Newspaper ) Ebonyi state police command have confirmed the rescue of a Catholic priest, Timothy Nwanja, who was abducted by gunmen in the state. The incident happened in Okpokueze Nkomoro community, Imoho Development Centre, Ezza North Local Government Area of the State. Also rescued was the cook to the priest who was abducted with her boss. The priest escaped after his captors allegedly drank Holy Communion wine they stole from his house and slept off. This is even as the police said that they arrested one of the suspected kidnappers. Two of the kidnappers escaped but the police vowed to track them down. According to sources, the cleric, who serves at St. Marys parish, was kidnapped by three gunmen at about 8:30 p.m. on Sunday night in his residence. The police spokesperson in the state, Loveth Odah, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, who conformed the rescue, said that the police acting on tip-off, raided the criminals hideout. She narrated that the kidnappers sneaked into the priests room on Sunday while he was having his dinner and took him and his cook away. She said that the priests cook who had gone upstairs to get water from the refrigerator was first captured. When the priest heard the loud screaming, he ran upstairs to know what was going on and they also captured him. One of them was familiar with the area. They took him away in his own vehicle. They blindfolded him and tied his ears so that he would not be able to listen to their interaction. At a point, they separated the cook and the priest. They allowed the cook to go but it was a plot, she narrated. Mrs. Odah disclosed that the cleric had jumped out through the window of the uncompleted building where he was taken to after his three captors took Holy Communion wine and slept off. She said that the criminals had planned to request the sum a N100 million ransom from the Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese in the morning before they ran out of luck. -Tori Pretty actress, Funmi Awelewa, aka Morili sneh, celebrated her birthday during the week and many expected her to pull all the stops in making it a remarkable affair. But the soft-spoken thespian shocked not a few when she decided to mark her birthday anniversary with biscuits and some bottles of soft drinks. This left many wondering the reason for her action. But in a chat with Sunday Scoop, she explained why she decided to celebrate her special day that way. She said, Growing up as a little child, I always had to celebrate my birthday like that. Instead of cake, my parents would only provide biscuits and I would hold a knife to it as if I was cutting a real cake. It wasnt until I was five years old that I celebrated my birthday with a cake for the first time. I was so overjoyed at that and the memory still lingers. I was going through my childhood pictures this year when I saw a picture of me cutting biscuit on my birthday and it brought back all the sweet memories of my childhood. I am not ashamed of my past, and I am happy that things have changed for the better. Sharing more of her childhood memories, Awelewa said, I used to trek to and from school to the house in those days. But now, I cannot even trek half of that journey before I get tired. Speaking on the comedy skits she has been uploading on Instagram which usually attract lots of views and comments, she said, When people call me on the phone, they usually think they are speaking to a little girl, so I always switch to my Ibadan accent and people find that funny too. I believe that one doesnt need to look stupid to make people laugh, and thats what Im trying to prove with my comedy skits. Meanwhile, Awelewa also stated that she would be releasing her movie, Omo Ibadan, soon. Source: Punch Former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd), on Tuesday has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to suspend and adjourn indefinitely his trial on charges of illegal possession of firearms and money laundering. Arguing the application before Justice Ahmed Mohammed, Dasukis counsel, Mr. Ahmed Raji (SAN), asked the court to adjourn the trial indefinitely pending the hearing and determination of the ex-NSAs motion for stay of proceedings filed before the Court of Appeal, Abuja. Raji contended that his clients motion was not seeking an order of stay of proceedings which had been barred by section 306 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, but said that the application was brought under section 305 of the ACJA which he argued allowed the court to adjourn a trial after a constitutional issue arising from the trial had been referred to a higher court for determination. Raji was referring to the appeal filed by his client against the ruling delivered by Justice Mohammed on June 15, 2017, granting the prosecutions application to permit its witnesses to testify behind screen. Raji said, In the cause of the proceedings, a very major constitutional issue arose on witness protection and fair trial, under the Constitution and the defendant here has referred the constitutional matter to the Court of Appeal. The notice of appeal, Exhibit C which is the vehicle through which the referral was made, particularly in ground 3, states that section 232(3)(b) of the ACJA has been submitted for the test against the provision of section36(4) of the 1999 Constitution. On the basis of this referral the court should adjourn the matter. Source: ( Punch Newspaper ) The leadership of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital has announced his plan to undertake the delicate cardiac surgery in the nearest future. As part of efforts to stem overseas medical tourism by Nigerians, the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, says it will soon begin full cardiac surgery. The Chief Medical Director, Prof. Adewole Oke, told the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Lagos that the teaching hospital was striving to be the hub of qualitative healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Oke said the hospital was making effort to end the treatment of diseases that could be treated locally. He said, We have a government that is interested in the health sector; that is ready to move the sector forward. It has provided enough infrastructure and world class facilities. In other to complement the governments efforts, we are also sharpening our skills to make sure that we provide world class services to make Lagos the hub of medical healthcare delivery. Not by the world of the mouth, LASUTH conducted five kidney transplants this week and two between yesterday and today without any expatriate. All the surgeons are LASUTH doctors. We have also done cardiac surgery (heart replacement) about six months ago with the aid of some foreign consultants, but soon we will stand on our own. As it stands today, we can boast of first class infrastructure, hence, we can also provide first class services in terms of healthcare for Lagosians and Nigeria as a whole. We hope to build on our kidney transplant experience for the cardiac. We have had seamless cardiac surgery first, but we want to cross our Ts and dot our Is on it. By next year, we should be able to stand on our own and perform the surgery locally without external help which I believe will help our system to grow. The doctors available at the hospital are up to the task, they are well equipped and trained with first class knowledge. Governors from the 36 states have asked President Muhammadu Buhari to approve the balance of 50 per cent Paris/London loan refund for them ahead 2018 budget. The chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF, and governor of Zamfara state, Abdulaziz Yari, stated this Tuesday shortly after leading some governors to meet with the president. Briefing journalists after the meeting, Mr. Yari said they were at the villa to remind Mr. Buhari of his directive in 2016 that 50 per cent of the money be paid to states, and the balance after reconciliation. Mr. Yari said they told Mr. Buhari that reconciliation is on since 2016, we are hoping that both the DMO, (Debt Management Office) Ministry of Finance, AGF and our consultants are concluding this reconciliation by November. So, we want to crave your indulgence so that we can factor the numbers in our 2018 budget so that we can use it for projects and other recurrent spending according to the specification given by our respective House of Assemblies. The Zamfara governor also said they were at the presidents office to thank him for his concern about the economy of most states and for giving them support ranging from bail out, restructuring our debt and London- Paris club exit payment. He said Nigeria got out of recession largely because of the bailouts given to states by the president because most of the countrys population reside in the states. Mr. Yari said Mr. President was prompt in responding to them and assured that the reconciliation will be completed when he returns from a foreign trip. We are going to work with the numbers when he returns from his trip, we are going to follow up this meeting with him so that we can conclude on what is going to be done next, Mr. Yari said. Source: ( Punch Newspaper ) An official of the Federal Road Safety Commission abducted by gunmen Thursday last week in Zamfara State has regained freedom. FRSC spokesperson, Bisi Kazeem, announced that that the unidentified official who is a route commander of the agency in Birni Kudu, was released on Monday morning and handed over to the FRSC at the Zamfara State Police Headquarters in Gusau. The official was abducted by gunmen in Tsafe during an incident that saw another officer of the FRSC in Tsafe Unit Command of the state killed. The Chief Executive of the FRSC, Boboye Oyeyemi, expressed gratitude to the Zamfara State Government and other security agencies for the release of the official. Mr. Oyeyemi assured staff of the Corps of their security and welfare and enjoined them to do their best in their service. Source: ( Premium Times ) The Minister of State for Petroleum, Ibe Kachikwu, has confirmed the fire incident at his Abuja residence as circulated on social media, but said it was nothing serious. It was a mere power surge that was contained immediately, Mr. Kachikwus spokesperson, Idang Alibi. The spokesperson said no one was hurt during the incident, which he said occurred between Sunday night and Monday morning and blamed on a faulty electric cable in his principals bedroom. Mr. Kachikwu was not at home during the outbreak. It was contained within a few minutes by police guard and others who were at the property located in the highbrow Asokoro neighbourhood. The development comes amidst raging controversy over the October 3 leakage of a memo which Mr. Kachikwu addressed to President Buhari about alleged infractions at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. No foul play was suspected in the fire incident, Mr. Alibi said. Source: ( Premium Times ) We have received multiple reports of a pandemonium in Abonnema, Akuku-Toru LGA, in Rivers State, as school children flee for their live, over rumors that Soldiers are injecting them with Monkeypox. Parents are currently rushing to their ward school, to take them home.. This is the same thing that happened in Anambra state. Below are multiple reports we received from several sources, who is live in the state; Greetings yabaleft.. Please help us broadcast this, as it is very urgent. This is a live event of children running from school due to the fear of monkey pox. The same soldiers that were in bayelsa are live in Abonnema. Trying to force them to be injected. This is happening in Abonnema under Akuku Toru L.G.A In Rivers State. Please help us publish this.. The government of Ricers State should come to the aid of our schooling children, as this (vaccine) is in no way affiliated to WHO The health Centres In This L.G.A are not consulted in this act. Even the nurses and doctors working in the L.G.A Health Centers aint aware of this very act.. The same soldiers are in a neighbouring community called Buguma Under Aselga L.G.A. Now, the same rumor is just been passed that the soldiers are on their way to Abonnema (under Akuku Toru L.G.A) which is just some few kilo meters away from Buguma.. According to the information now.. They are presently in degema (under Delga) which is the closest community to Abonnema. The whole community is under Tension which is leading to; parents and guardians deciding that their children wont go to school for one week.. A user, Oraye St. Franklyn on Facebook wrote: The military should please forget its charity/ humanitarian work in Southern Nigeria. From reports, they are clearly not welcome. If they wish to win the confidence and support of the publics, they must begin by changing the character of their narrative. Who wants to frolick with Pythons or Crocodiles, and within the same period that humanity is being dehumanized by them? Haba! Some things are common sense na? Source :- YBL Even though he is no longer a regular face in Nollywood movies, Emeka Enyiochas name still rings a bell. Known for his bad boy and Casanova roles in Nollywood, the actor, while speaking to Sunday Scoop, explained why most men disappear immediately they hear marriage. He said, Women intimidate men a lot. When a girl with a proper job has everything you can think of and the young man is still looking for a job, what do you want him to do? Even though he is a graduate, he still lives with his parents or a friend in a one-room apartment. Once you dont have money, you wont have confidence. That is the honest truth. You should not be deceived by the notion that women dont like money. On his romance with women in the past, he stated that though people may find it hard to believe, he was never a ladies man. The actor explained further, I used to be naive when it came to the issue of women. Maybe because of my sense of fashion and appearance, people thought I was a womaniser. Most of the things my colleagues did then, I could not imagine myself doing them. However, with time, I began to understand women and their needs, and I didnt have problems with them. I didnt promise anyone marriage and later disappoint her. Even at the time I got married, I was not ready. You know you must be ready financially to get married to a woman from the eastern part of the country. Source: Punch The Group Managing Director, GMD, of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Maikanti Baru, and Shell Petroleum Development 7, SPDC, has been summoned by the Senate Committee on Ethics Privileges and Public Petitions, over the revocation and re-award of Oil Mining Licence (OML) 13 allegedly without due process. The summon came as a result of a petition sent to the Senate by the national coordinator, Global Peace and Sustainability Network, Longers Anyanwu. The Chairman of the Committee, Sam Anyanwu, speaking at the hearing yesterday, said the Managing Director of SPDC had already been invited three times but refused to appear adding that a warrant of arrest would be issued against the MD if he fails to honour the fresh summon. The NNPC was accused of re-awarding the revoked licence by executive fiat to one of its subsidiaries, Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, without the stipulated licensing round bids, thereby shrouding the transaction in secrecy. Also summoned was the management of SPDC to explain its role in the revocation of OML 13 which the committee said could become another scandal like the one caused by Malabu OPL 245, if not properly resolved. Speaking before the committee, Mr. Anyanwu, said OML 13 is an onshore oil block on the Eastern Niger Delta, with an acreage of 1,923Sq.m, a production capacity of about 33,500 barrels daily, comprising 39 oil wells and that it is made up of Oil Prospecting Licence, OPL, 2001, 2002 and 2003, formerly operated by SPDC but was revoked along with other blocks in 2005. The petition read, OML 13 was offered in the 2007 Licencing Rounds where Jahcon International Limited won OPL 2091, Hi Rev Exploration and Production won OPL 2002 while Oil and Industrial Services Limited won OPL 2003, with commitments to pay signature bonuses of $ 46 million $66 million abs $34 million respectively. The said OML 13 was sometime between February and March 2016, revoked and awarded to Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, a subsidiary abs of the production arm of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC through executive fiat and without going through the statutory Licencing Bids Rounds. Curiously, this OML 13 which was awarded to the NPDC through an executive fiat has been re-awarded to Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company, SEEPCO without as much as this offer going through an open tender abs the advertisement of a Licencing Bids Round by the relevant authorities. It is evident that this transaction is shrouded in mystery and under the table circumstances. Hence, it is the intention of this petition to compel the Senate to use its position to cause a full scale inquiry into this ambiguous transaction. From our investigation, we are able to establish that NPDC and SEEPCO could not produce evidence of fair play either in the award of OML 13 or, in the unlikely circumstance in the award of a contract of farm Out, farm In by the NPDC to SEEPCO as stipulated by the extant Nigerian laws regulating operations in the oil and gas industry and the Public Procurement Act which regulates the activities of agencies defined in the Act as procuring agents. Mr. Anyanwu called for outright cancellation and reversal of the entire process, which he said is shrouded in fraudulent and corrupt processes and never complied with the laid-down procedure contained in the extant laws, regulations and guidelines established for operations in the oil and gas industry. The chairman of the Committee added that the Senate would ensure that all conduits through which the nations resources are siphoned are blocked. Controversy recently trailed a recent confrontation between the minister of state for petroleum resources, Ibeh Kachikwu and Mr. Baru. Source: ( Premium Times ) The Student Union Government of the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU Ile-Ife, has demanded the unconditional recall of students recently suspended by the school. Following a protest by some students of the university on October 5 over incessant power outage, three students were served suspension letters on Thursday. According to the letters signed by the registrar of the school, Dotun Awoyemi, the students were suspended for alleged criminal activities pending the investigation of the police. Two students, Omole Ibukun, a 500 level of Department of Civil Engineering and John Udeh, a 200 level student of the Department of Arts and Social Education were accused of forcefully sending students out of the class under the guise of protesting an alleged unsatisfactory power supply, blocking of roads and hijacking of a bus of some of the members of the NURTW. The management had earlier that week suspended a Students Union officer, Oluwalade Babatunde, indefinitely for leading the said protest. The unions president, Ibukun Oyekan, while addressing journalists in Osogbo on Monday, appealed to the schools management to recall the students in order to avoid any crisis on the campus. Mr. Oyekan read a statement signed by himself, the secretary of the union, Boluwajaiye Adeoluwa and its public relations officer, Okediji Simon. Part of the statement said, We use this medium to debunk lies and subterfuges that have been made against our members. It must be clearly asserted at this point in time that students only embarked on a peaceful protest and what followed was their indefinite suspension from the University. The Union hereby demands the immediate and unconditional reinstatement of these students. We demand an end to an era of victimization of activists among the students on account of expression of their grievances and dissatisfaction over the current state of Obafemi Awolowo University campus. We demand that the University Management call the leadership of Postgraduate Hall as well as Great Ife Students Union to a roundtable discussion which must lead to quick, immediate and unconditional reinstatement of students on suspension among other issues. We demand the University Management to be more committed to facilitating a holistic improvement in the general welfare conditions of students on campus by ensuring stable supply of water and electricity on campus, standardisation of our laboratories and equipping the University library with updated books, as well as renovation of existing halls of residence and construction of new ones to decongest the population of students living off campus which is characterised with a very poor security network. The union also provided details of the affected students. saying, The suspended students are Omole Ibukun Ayodele, with registration number Cve/ 2011/ 042 of the Department of Civil Engineering; Jacob, Tosin Grace, with registration number: Law/ 2012/ 153 of the Faculty of Law; Udeh, John with registration number Ase/ 2015/ 362 of the Department of Arts and Social Sciences and Oluwalade Babatunde with registration number: Egl/ 2014/ 431 of the Department of English. A press release signed by the Public Relations Officer, PRO of the institution, Abiodun Olarewaju, said the students led some other persons in protest and violently disrupted academic and extra-curricular activities of the University by forcefully chasing other students out of the lecture halls under the guise of demonstrating against an alleged unsatisfactory power supply to the campus. The management also said that the students vandalised commercial transport vehicles of the members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Ile-Ife, and drove two other vehicles and a Cabstar van, fully loaded with their groups, to More Police Station where other students, who were being interrogated by the police, were forcefully released by their group. Many opine that the recent spate of suspensions in the school is perhaps reminiscent of a trend in Nigerian universities where student leaders are punished for leading students to protest bad welfare conditions such as poor power supply, bad hostel conditions, and inadequate teaching facilities. Similar suspensions in the past, have also been carried out at the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos. The suspensions are however unrelated to the recent suspension of two other officers of the OAU Students Union, one of which was mentioned in the SUGs statement. The vice president, Jacob Tosin, and director of socials, Adedayo Afolabi were suspended for engaging in violence over the sharing of about N3 million given out by the school. Source: ( Premium Times ) A police post in Kwara State has been accused by members of a local community of engaging in human trafficking in conjunction with some traditionalists. The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Lawan Ado, yesterday said the command had redeployed policemen at the Adewole Police Division in Ilorin, over an allegation against them. Ado explained that some residents had alleged that some of the policemen in the division had been selling suspects detained at the station to ritual killers for N80, 000 per person. The CP said this during a visit of the District Governor, Rotary International, District 9125, Mr. Mbanefo Nnoka, and his team to the command headquarters. He disclosed that, although the allegation was false, unfounded and untrue, the command redeployed the policemen to avoid needless rift. He added that no one had come forward with information and evidence to indict any police officer in the state for selling suspects to ritual killers. According to him, But we have been redeploying the policemen there. More than half of them have now been transferred and soon, the other half will be redeployed so that even if there is anybody who is involved which no information has established we will at least remove him from the area. Nnoka who oversees Rotary Clubs in 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, said Rotary had spent about $ 7.3 billion globally and N 300 m in Nigeria to fight polio. He urged parents to continue to immunising their children against polio, saying it was sad that there were still some resistance against polio immunisation in Nigeria. He urged Nigerians to cooperate with the police to fight crime, adding that policemen were friends of Nigerians. On Wednesday, Nigerias President, Muhammadu Buhari will leave for Istanbul, Turkey to participate in the ninth Summit of the Developing 8 (D-8) on Friday, October 20, 2017. It is expected that President Buhari, at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, will participate in an official working visit to Ankara, the capital city. He will be visiting the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara where he will meet with the Speaker, Ismail Kahraman. While in Istanbul, the Turkish commercial centre, President Buhari who is accompanied on the trip by ministers, top government officials, including the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Hameed Ali, will use the occasion of the D-8 Summit to bolster warm and growing ties across a broad range of areas of cooperation with leaders of the D8-member countries, namely Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey. At the end of the summit, the Heads of State and Government will adopt a Communique, also known as the Istanbul Declaration. President Zuma has expressed happiness and satisfaction about the honourable treatment he was given in Nigeria by Rochas Okorocha. President Jacob Zuma of South Africa has spoken about the giant statue made of him by the Imo State Government. The President said he is leaving the state and Nigeria as a hero. Nigerians woke up last Saturday to a giant statue of Jacob Zuma standing tall in Owerri, Imo state. The Imo State Government, Rochas Okorocha had unveiled the bronze statue, named a street after Zuma, conferred him with a chieftaincy title and then the highest Merit Award in Imo state during his two-day visit. The Imo state government said Zumas visit to the state was to strengthen socio-economic relations and deepen cooperation in education. Speaking about his visit, Zuma said I walked in here as I said as an ordinary freedom fighter. Im leaving Nigeria through the state of Imo as a hero. What a decoration. A correctional service official in Losperfontein prison, South Africa, has committed suicide after pictures of her being intimate with a prison inmate emerged on social media. SA Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said it is unclear how the pictures were shared and who shared them. He further stated that in the case of the inmate involved, an investigation is underway to indicate the violations and to recommend sanctions. The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has been made aware of images involving an official and inmate, from Losperfontein Correctional Centre, in an intimate position circulating on social media, Nxumalo said. As this is disturbing and strictly prohibited, the department condemns this type of behaviour in the strongest possible terms. Whilst DCS was busy investigating this matter, we have since learned with shock that the official allegedly appearing on the images has committed suicide. Regional Commissioner Mandla Mkabela has expressed grief and sadness at the incident. A Nigerian Bishop has been nabbed by the men of the Nigeria Police Force after he was alleged to have done something really wrong. A cleric, Bishop Ginika Obi, was recently arrested by the Police Command in Enugu over his alleged advance fee fraud involving over N500m, has been remanded in Enugu Maximum Prison. According to NAN, the spokesman of the command, Mr Ebere Amaraizu, in a statement on Tuesday said the bishop, whose church/office is at Km 111, Enugu-Port Harcourt highway, Enugu, had been alleged to have tricked many people to pay huge amounts of money to him. He was said to have claimed that he would help his victims reap bumper financial dividends in return. Amarizu said Obi was arraigned on Oct. 11 in an Enugu Federal High Court presided over by Justice A. Liman. He said the suspect had been in prison custody since Oct. 12 and that further hearing on his case had been scheduled for Nov. 1 and Nov. 2. He said, His offences ranging from conspiracy and advance fee fraud were committed in conjunction with others now at large. On Oct. 11, he took his plea after his 82 counts of conspiracy and advance fee fraud was read to him. He was later remanded in police custody based on the plea of his defence counsel to be brought to court on Oct. 12 for further hearing. He was later remanded in prison custody as he could not meet his bail conditions.. Amarizu said that the suspects arrest and arraignment followed several petitions against him and others now at large for allegedly swindling unsuspecting members of the public. He said that the bishop and his alleged cohorts disappeared without traces until the command, through intelligence, closed on him in a hotel in Enugu. The Bayelsa State government has confirmed the death of one of the victims of the deadly disease, monkeypox, has committed suicide, the Bayelsa State government said on Monday. The victim allegedly took his own life on Monday at the quarantine centre in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, located in the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, in Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state. Addressing journalists on Monday evening in Yenagoa, the state capital, the Commissioner for Health, Ebitimitula Etebu, said the deceased was among the 21 suspected cases of the virus that were being managed at the teaching hospital. Mr. Etebu was joined at the conference by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, the Chief Medical Director of the NDUTH, Dimie Ogoina, and other senior health officials. He expressed regret that the patient took his own life despite impressive progress to stem the outbreak by the government. He said the deceaseds medical history did not suggest any mental illness or features of depression. The health commissioner maintained the patient did not die from the disease, adding that the police and his family had been duly informed and all due diligence was being followed to ensure the safe burial of victim. Mr. Etebu said that a committee had been put in place to evaluate the deceaseds clinical and social history to shed more light on the tragedy. He also formally confirmed the outbreak of monkeypox in the state following laboratory evidence from samples sent to the World Health Organisation in Dakar, Senegal. It was reported how the health minister, Isaac Adewole, earlier on Thursday, confirmed that three of samples from Bayelsa tested positive to monkeypox. Mr. Etebu, however, assured the general public again that the government was doing everything to contain the outbreak. Mr. Iworiso-Markson on his part urged residents to continue to use preventive measures and ensure they avoid bush meat. Source: ( Premium Times ) The Cross River State Police Command on Monday said that six residents of Danare community in Boki Local Government Area were shot by gendarmes from Bodam community during an invasion on the Nigerian territory by Cameroonians. Hafiz Inuwa, the Commissioner of Police, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Calabar. He said that a Cameroonian community, `Bodam, on the border with Nigerias Boki Local Government Area, had been in crisis with Danare community over the international land dispute. Mr. Inuwa said after visiting Danare community that although no life was lost, six residents of Danare community were shot by the Cameroonians. We found out that six persons were shot and they are currently in the hospital as the pellets were being removed from their bodies. They were shot by the people of Bodam village from Cameroon. We have advised the people to restore normalcy and shun all forms of crisis and allow the government to take charge. They told us that they were preparing to repel the attack because the Cameroonians had encroached almost 43km into their land, he said. The commissioner further explained that the Danare people were appealing to the government to restore electricity, drinking water, communication and police post in the area. Itam Abang, the member representing Boki I State Constituency in Cross River House of Assembly, told the News Agency of Nigeria that over 1,000 cocoa, plantain and banana farms were also destroyed by the Cameroonians. Mr. Itam said majority of residents in the area were mainly farmers and appealed to the federal government to intervene by providing the people with adequate security and social amenities. When we got there, the Danare people had already mobilised for war. Luckily, we arrived on time in company with the commissioner of police and we had to prevail on them not to go into the forest. From where we were standing, we could hear gunshots because the Cameroonians had really encroached into the Danare community. And from what my people told me, the Cameroonians have destroyed over 1,000 of their farmlands and this is a huge loss to the farmers. We advised residents in the community to hold their peace that the state and Federal Government were going to step in with a view to restoring peace and normalcy in the area, she said. Source: (NAN) A suspected thief has been dealt with in a most terrible manner after his hand was chopped off by an executioner. Islamic State in Egypt has released a video showing a thief having his hand cut off to boast of its eye for an eye attitude to crime and punishment, Dailymail has reported In the photos, the alleged criminal was seen having his hand disinfected and secured in place with a rope, before an executioner chopped it off with a meat cleaver. At least two men hold the thief down, an executioner dressed in black uses a meat cleaver and a metal pole to cut the hand off. The pictures, released by the Egyptian faction of ISIS called Wilyat Sinai, emerged just hours after the group claimed to be behind an attack on six military checkpoints on the Sinai peninsula. The images shows the moments before the man is punished, and sees him sat by a table in front of a small crowd and an ISIS leader speaking. It is not known if the man being punished is a member of the Islamic State or if he is simply subjected to the harsh Sharia law the terrorists practice. The final image sees the thief having his stump wrapped in bandages by ISIS fighters in hospital scrubs. Egyptian security forces have been battling Islamist militants in northern Sinai, which borders the Gaza Strip and Israel, for several years. But the insurgency, led by Wilyat Sinai, has gained momentum since the Egyptian military ousted an elected Islamist president in 2013. Popular Ghanaian actor, Van Vicker and his wife, Adjoa took to Instagram to celebrate 14 blissful years of marriage. The couple have actually known each other for 23 long years, and according to the actor, it has been an absolute delight to watch his sweethearts face and body metamorphose Sharing multiple collages, mostly unauthorised copies of his wifes old pictures on his Instagram timeline yesterday, October 16 2017, the actor says; the route had turbulences, it was muddy, rosy, revolting, honeyed, distasteful, so on and so forth. Graciously we are still together.October 16th 2003, in retrospect, was one of the happiest days of my life; still is. Van and Adjoa have three kids together, a desire the actor says he and his wife have always had. Heres what he shared: source: Instagram Update 12/12/17 The St. Louis County Planning Commission wasnt ready to vote on the self-storage project proposed by Lemay Storage during its Dec. 11 executive meeting. The development was one of four proposals set aside by planners. The project remains controversial, with about 70 residents attending a public hearing on Oct. 16 to oppose the plan, according to the source. No one spoke in favor of it during the hearing. Property values continue to be among the chief concerns cited by homeowners in the Bristol Ridge and Providence Pointe subdivisions. A portion of a 1.4-acre wooded area would be cleared to make room for the storage buildings. Some yards back up to the park-like setting, and residents believe their view would be compromised even if the project included buffering due to grading, according to attorney Colleen Ruiz, who spoke on behalf of residents during the public hearing. The decks of Bristol Ridge homes, for example, would look down onto the storage property even if it was surrounded by trees, Ruiz said. Vince Keady, an attorney representing Lemay Storage, countered that the self-storage facility would be a visual improvement over the used-car lot. Its been my experience that when you add a new development like this and take away a dilapidated building, its not going to hurt property values. The facility wouldnt include any outdoor storage, and lighting would point only toward the storage property, Keady told planners. In addition, office hours would be limited to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though tenants would have 24-hour, gated, keycode access to all 699 units. Its not clear if the planning commission will vote on the matter during its January meeting. 10/16/17 Self-storage developer Lemay Storage LLC intends to build a 92,400-square-foot facility in Oakville, Mo., but several residents oppose the effort. The 4.4-acre property at 5419 Lemay Ferry Road would require a zoning change from residential to commercial for the project to move forward. The St. Louis County, Mo., Planning Commission is scheduled to discuss the proposal tonight during a public hearing, according to the source. The plan calls for five structures, with three storage buildings ranging from 20,000 to 36,000 square feet. Two office buildings, one a two-story structure comprising 3,200 square feet and the other at 1,200 square feet, are also part of the design, the source reported. The facility would be built on the corner of Lemay Ferry Road and Old Lemay Ferry Road, which is currently occupied by Moores Used Autos and Midwest Autohaus. The project would also require building onto a heavily wooded portion of the lot, which backs up to the Bristol Ridge Subdivision. Residents who face Old Lemay Ferry Road would see the facility from their backyards and decks, according to Ron Garascia, a former real estate banker who lives in the neighborhood and is leading the opposition. Who wants to come out of your subdivision and, all of a sudden, smack dab in front you have storage units? he told the source. Garascia believes the facility would lower property values and argued its unnecessary because there are six other storage facilities within a one-mile radius. The lot is across the street from a fire station, shopping center and tavern. Representatives from Lemay Storage, which was formed in August, spoke with councilmember Ernie Trakas several months ago about its plans. The design was pretty well-landscaped and keeping with an attractive design, Trakas told the source, adding that it would still be necessary to listen to resident feedback. Sources: Call Newspapers: Oakville Residents Opposing Proposed Storage Facility; Public Hearing Slated Monday Call Newspapers: Planning Panel to Consider South County Projects Herb Havins, president of The Havins Co. Inc., recently broke ground on Silverbell Self Storage at Sunset Ranch in Tucson, Ariz. The urban-renewal project at 2720 N. Silverbell Road was 10 years in the making, according to Havins, who also owns Ajo-Kinney Super Storage at 5175 W. Ajo Highway in Tucson. The new facility will offer climate-controlled as well as traditional drive-up units and make use of several eco-friendly initiatives to create a lower carbon footprint, such as LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, native landscaping and a 21.5 kilowatt photovoltaic-solar system. Security measures will include keypad access, individually alarmed units and video cameras. The facility will also offer a retail store that sells moving and packing supplies, and a moving truck customers can use for free when renting a unit. The Silverbell site received a commendation from the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce, whose proclamation "carries with it 100 years of good fortune, according to the source. Havins is also president of Pima County Market Data Services, a member of the Appraisal Institute and a real estate broker in Arizona. Hes been a resident of Tucson for more than 30 years. Attending insurance industry conferences is a great way to get out of the office and listen to the insights of industry leaders. As well as helping attendees get a better understanding of the people in positions of power and influence, it also highlights one hard-to-ignore fact: Most of the individuals in senior and executive positions are deep into their 50s and 60s. The leaders of tomorrow are more difficult to locate.Its no surprise that insurance has an aging workforce, but with many industry veterans due to retire in the next five to 10 years, the industry is under pressure to attract and develop fresh talent. It is more important now than ever before for the industry to be proactive in recruiting and obtaining the next generation of leaders, says Robert Sanders, president and managing member of Preferred Specialty. This topic really is the talk of the insurance industry right now.Sanders studied insurance and risk management at the University of South Carolina before working as a reinsurance broker for a few years and then opening Preferred Specialty in 2003 at the age of 25. He maintains close ties with the university and is encouraged by the popularity of the program. Sanders often takes on interns from the same program he graduated from and recently asked one intern about what matters most to millennials when they apply for a job. Flexible work hours and competitive remuneration were at the top of list.In addition to that, she talked about a wanting a relaxed working environment with a more liberal dress code and people who are easy to work with, Sanders says. Being able to move up quickly within a company is also an important attribute.The upcoming void in talent and experience is a realistic hazard for many leading insurance companies and brokerages. The decades of experience leaving the industry will not be replaced easily, and its imperative that organizations of all size take a proactive approach to seeking out their next generation of business leaders and innovators.Its a situation that Sanders is well aware of within his own firm. It is important to me, and should be for the industry, to transfer as much knowledge as possible by working closely with the new talent joining the workforce, he says. We need an overlap between the generations that are retiring and the new generation that is coming in. Over the next five years, the industry needs to work hard on bridging that gap.A recent survey discovered that only 5% of millennials are familiar with the insurance industry, and fewer than one in 10 expressed any interest in entering the business. Although the image of the industry has changed in recent years, there is obviously a need to do more to influence the perception of insurance among young people.Insurance may well be a dynamic, challenging industry that embraces innovation, but if younger generations arent aware of that, they wont be attracted to the business. The industry needs to do more as a whole to market and target millennials not only as a future employer, but also from a consumer standpoint, Sanders says. The next generation accesses products and services through their smartphones; this is not going to be a check-writing generation. I believe the insurance industry needs to continue to engage in social media and other non-traditional mediums to attract the attention of millennials.Participating in jobs fairs at colleges is a good way for insurance companies to get in front of younger millennials, but industry leaders may have to abandon their traditional approach to make these interactions worthwhile. An older insurance professional dressed in a suit is likely to be more intimidating than someone who is more casually dressed, and therefore more relatable and approachable to the younger generation.Millennials might relate better to a company rep with a faded screen-print T-shirt with a company logo on it, Sanders says. That might seem like a step too far, but we as an industry need to do all we can to relate and appeal to the next generation. At 32 years old, Josh Ammons falls firmly on the older end of the millennial spectrum. Ammons is currently a senior vice president and property broker at AmWINS in Charlotte, North Carolina, but in the middle of the last decade, he was a student at Appalachian State University on an academic scholarship, with no real interest or knowledge of the insurance industry, particularly the commercial side. That all changed when Steve DeCarlo, the current CEO of AmWINS, served as a guest lecturer for Ammons one and only insurance course, an introduction to risk management and insurance. DeCarlo spoke passionately about the insurance business particularly the commercial side, with specific focus on excess & surplus lines and the opportunities being created by the industrys growing talent gap.Ammons was impressed by what he heard. Ten minutes after he finished his speech, I sent Steve an email saying I loved his talk and that I thought I could be really successful in insurance, Ammons says. I was an arrogant 20-year-old, but he appreciated my email, and I ended up interviewing the next week and then interning with AmWINS that summer and winter. Ive been with them ever since, coming up on 11 years.Ammons now plays an active role in preparing younger millennials to enter the insurance industry. As part of his role as an advisory board member for the Brantley Risk & Insurance Center at Appalachian State University, Ammons helps students become strong candidates for jobs in the real world of the insurance industry.Along with a group of industry peers, Ammons also visits other universities across the country to enhance awareness about careers in insurance. He speaks with a wide range of college students, some of whom are not enrolled in an insurance or risk management program. When he tells a room full of 20-year-old college students that the industry is a people business and is all about relationships, they begin to get engaged.Once they hear about the travel, the client outings and that there is no ceiling on earnings if you are constantly bringing value to your clients, they are ready to learn much more about what we do, Ammons says. Im also able to talk with them about the complexity of the deals we handle in the commercial and E&S spaces. I let them know its not just homeowners and auto insurance, like I thought when I was in their shoes more than 10 years ago.In order to succeed in his role at AmWINS, where his pay is performance-based, Ammons has adopted a something more can always be done mindset, which he also relates to the industrys efforts to attract the next generation of leaders. Although he sees firsthand the work insurance companies are doing, Ammons believes the industry can do better.In reality, millennials dont bring much immediate value they are not able to go out and convince a client who is twice their age that they know what theyre talking about at the beginning of their career, Ammons says.So we need to think of millennials as a long-term investment, as the future of the industry.As well as a desire to be well compensated, to be able to use up-to-date technology and to join a company with a great culture, Ammons has noticed a strong desire among younger millennials to find mentors. Its a demographic that is eager to develop and wants to learn - traits that will become crucial as older generations retire and take their experience and industry knowledge with them. Ammons believes theres no industry challenge more important and timely than that of attracting and retaining the next wave of talent.Perpetuation is a major focus of all successful firms, and we need to continue to highlight opportunities to these young people, Ammons says. We need to tell these millennials that if they stick around, work hard, be patient and ask the right questions, they are going to be leaned upon as a leader much earlier than the generations that came before them. The insurance industry has a role to play as businesses face a rising tide of uninsurable risks, an expert has said.The recent World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Risks report found that some of the biggest risks facing Australia are actually uninsurable, such as energy price shock and the asset bubble, but Giles Crowley, head of commercial at Zurich , said that the industry can still help clients.In our experience companies that have strong governance cultures and risk management frameworks are better able to deal with all forms of risk, even ones that arent traditionally insurable, or that might require a change of strategy or market response, Crowley told Insurance Business.But insurers can also help with risk mitigation, risk prevention and alternative capital solutions in some instances.Crowley noted that it was not surprising to see executives name energy price shock as the biggest risk while doing business in Australia as the prominence of debate around energy policy, prices and supply has seen it move to the front of minds for many businesses.However, as more risks come to the fore, whether they be insurable or uninsurable, Crowley said that insurers and brokers need to continue to communicate with clients.The industry has traditionally been very good at encouraging clients to scan for, manage and mitigate risks, wherever they may be coming from, Crowley continued. Theres always more that can be done, thats why we need to remain vigilant for new and emerging risks, and keep communicating.Crowley said that the report, which was released earlier this month, offers brokers a chance to gain a better understanding of their clients and the wider risks they face doing business.Its about understanding the context of the environment that their clients are operating in, and the things that are keeping them up at night, Crowley said. Knowing what the priority is for your client will allow you to better tailor your support. A world expert with more than 20 years of experience across academia, regulation, law, and the financial industry has been appointed as the new chairman of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission ( ASIC ).James Shipton, executive director of the International Financial Systems program at the Harvard Law School, will commence his five-year term as ASIC chair in February. He will succeed Greg Medcraft who will step down from the role on Nov. 12. Peter Kell , current deputy chair, will serve as acting chair during the transition period.I look forward to Mr Shipton making a significant contribution to the important work of ASIC in promoting confidence in Australias financial system and protecting consumer interests as the incoming chair, said Kelly O'Dwyer MP, minister for Revenue and Financial Services.ODwyer also thanked Medcraft for his years of service as ASIC chair and member.Mr Medcraft has overseen significant changes in ASICs role during his tenure, including reforms to improve the quality of financial advice and financial literacy, and the establishment of a national business names register, she said.Shipton started his career as a solicitor in Australia. Prior to his role at Harvard, he was executive director of the intermediaries supervision and licensing division at the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission, and has served a range of roles in investment banking in Asia and Europe.The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) also welcomed Shipton's appointment. ICA CEO Rob Whelan said the new chair's extensive experience in regulation and financial markets would provide ongoing confidence in ASIC and the financial services industry. I look forward to meeting Mr Shipton in the new year to discuss his vision for ASIC and how it will affect insurers and consumers, Whelan said. Businesses success can be determined in so many ways by profit, by revenue, by the number of deals made, by market share.But Arthur J. Gallagher chairman, president, and CEO Pat Gallagher has a different measure of success. When he spoke with Insurance Business recently, he didnt count as his greatest corporate achievement the three-decade growth of his company, its US$10.1 billion value, nor its global reach and 26,000 staff members.So what does Gallagher consider his greatest business success?It really comes down to one thing, the 65-year-old said, our culture.I joined the firm in 1974, after two years in an internship, and we had 125 people and did US$6 million in revenue. And as we started to grow the business, people would say to me, When you get to 500 people, you wont be able to keep the company culture. The culture is very much a family-feeling culture. And then at 1,000 people, theyd say, Thats a great culture, but at 2,000 you wont keep it.What Im most proud of, of anything in the whole company, is that I could take you around the world I could take you to India, where we have 2,000 colleagues; I could take you to Canada our culture hangs together.Its a culture built on respect and an assistance on helping one another out for the good of the company.We have a unique Gallagher culture, he said. We believe very deeply in ethical behavior. We believe in taking care of one another. We collaborate across boundaries and borders like you wouldnt believe, and you cant legislate that I cant write a memo that says, Henceforth, everybody please co-operate.And thats one of the things I hear from our merger partners. They come aboard and they say, You know what, I put out a request for help and its overwhelming how many people were willing to help me.So what Im most proud of is that for 26,000 people and I travel the world all year long this culture is the culture of Gallagher, which is unique, and our management team works really hard to keep it.The culture that Gallagher is so proud of is no accident. Despite the directive not having been a memo, it is nonetheless a concerted top-down approach.And, though AJG is notorious within the industry for its continued acquisition-march, the companys M&A directors are incredibly conscious of only buying up firms that will form a natural fit with the culture, Gallagher said.Its a very focused effort by senior management and middle management and junior management to recognise that we have something different and unique, and we bring people in that get it, he explained. So when were buying these smaller firms, one of the things theyre feeling is, These people are like me. The reason we keep [the culture] is because we believe it and we live it. Arthur J. Gallagher has announced the acquisition of a New Mexico-based insurance company. Terms of the transaction have not been disclosed. Gallagher acquired Santa Fe, N.M.-based Reynolds & Rodar Insurance Group. The company, which has roots stretching back to 1882, is the oldest independent agency in New Mexico. It provides a full range of commercial P&C and employee benefits coverage. R&R president Jake Rodar and CFO Shona Rodar and their team will continue to operate from their Santa Fe and Taos offices. Celebrate excellence in insurance. Join us at the Insurance Business Awards in Chicago. Reynolds & Rodar is a high-quality organization, with outstanding clients, that shares our ambitions for meaningful expansion in New Mexico, said J. Patrick Gallagher, chairman, president and CEO of Arthur J. Gallagher. I am thrilled to welcome, Jake, Shona and their associates to our growing Gallagher family of professionals. Arthur J. Gallagher, based in Illinois, has operations in 34 countries. Brown & Brown has revealed both its unaudited financial results for Q3 2017 and the successful asset acquisition of one of its subsidiaries.According to a release, revenues for the third quarter of 2017 under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) were $475.6 million a $13.3 million (or 2.9%) year-over-year increase from Q3 2016. Revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 under GAAP were $1,407.0 million, which represents a $74.0 million (5.6%) increase from the same period last year.We are pleased with the results for the quarter as each of our divisions delivered good organic revenue growth, and we provided nice growth in our earnings per share, said Brown & Brown president and CEO J. Powell Brown.As announced on October 12, 2017, our board of directors approved an 11.1% increase to our dividend, and I am pleased to note that this is our 24th consecutive year of dividend increases, Brown added.The company had also announced that one of its subsidiaries, Pacific Resources Benefit Advisors, has acquired the assets of Universal Benefit Solutions (UBS).UBS, founded by Brandon Brickweg, represents large company clients in the placement of ancillary employee benefits products, a release said. The company has annual revenues of about $2.5 million.Following the acquisition, the UBS team will become part of the Pacific Resources profit center, which operates under the supervision of Brown & Brown regional president Barrett Brown.Brandon and Bob have built a very successful advisory firm offering creative solutions for their clients. We believe that joining their capabilities with our PacRes team, under the leadership of Paul Barden and Paul Rogers, will enhance both operations, commented Brandon Brown.We have been offering customer centric solutions for ancillary benefits throughout the history of our organization and are very excited about combining with PacRes, Brickweg added. Businesses success can be determined in so many ways by profit, by revenue, by the number of deals made, by market share.But Arthur J. Gallagher chairman, president, and CEO Pat Gallagher has a different measure of success. When he spoke with Insurance Business recently, he didnt count as his greatest corporate achievement the three-decade growth of his company, its $10.1 billion value, nor its global reach and 26,000 staff members.So what does Gallagher consider his greatest business success?It really comes down to one thing, the 65-year-old said, our culture.I joined the firm in 1974, after two years in an internship, and we had 125 people and did $6 million in revenue. And as we started to grow the business, people would say to me, When you get to 500 people, you wont be able to keep the company culture. The culture is very much a family-feeling culture. And then at 1,000 people, theyd say, Thats a great culture, but at 2,000 you wont keep it.What Im most proud of, of anything in the whole company, is that I could take you around the world I could take you to India, where we have 2,000 colleagues; I could take you to the UK our culture hangs together.Its a culture built on respect and an assistance on helping one another out for the good of the company.We have a unique Gallagher culture, he said. We believe very deeply in ethical behavior. We believe in taking care of one another. We collaborate across boundaries and borders like you wouldnt believe, and you cant legislate that I cant write a memo that says, Henceforth, everybody please co-operate.And thats one of the things I hear from our merger partners. They come aboard and they say, You know what, I put out a request for help and its overwhelming how many people were willing to help me.So what Im most proud of is that for 26,000 people and I travel the world all year long this culture is the culture of Gallagher, which is unique, and our management team works really hard to keep it.The culture that Gallagher is so proud of is no accident. Despite the directive not having been a memo, it is nonetheless a concerted top-down approach.And, though AJG is notorious within the industry for its continued acquisition-march, the companys M&A directors are incredibly conscious of only buying up firms that will form a natural fit with the culture, Gallagher said.Its a very focused effort by senior management and middle management and junior management to recognize that we have something different and unique, and we bring people in that get it, he explained. So when were buying these smaller firms, one of the things theyre feeling is, These people are like me. The reason we keep [the culture] is because we believe it and we live it. In a preliminary estimate, Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited reported that it had suffered approximately $310 million in pre-tax losses, net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums related to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.About $110 million of those losses were from Harvey, $135 million from Irma, and $65 million from Maria.Aspen also projected that it would see pre-tax losses, net of reinsurance and reinstatement premiums of about $50 million due to other loss events, such as the Mexican earthquakes.The company said that approximately 75% of the total estimated losses are attributed to the reinsurance segment, while the remaining 25% to the insurance segment.Aspen is expecting an underwriting loss of roughly $340 million in the third quarter of 2017. The companys third quarter 2017 financial results are scheduled for release later this month, October 25, reported Street Insider.The loss estimates come as Floridas Office of Insurance Regulation reported that the potential insured losses from Hurricane Irma are worth an estimated $4.94 billion (as of October 13). The regulator said that as of last week, 747,534 claims had been filed in the state. Of those claims, about 19% had been settled with payments, while 13% had been closed without payment.Homeowners accounted for 66% of the Irma-related claims made in Florida, News Service of Florida said. Report sheds light on why insurance in the state is only deceptively affordable For independent agents, errors and omissions (E&O) allegations can surface any day or week but the risk is heightened in the days following natural catastrophes. After the storm passes over and the claims start to come in, the risk for the insurance agent rises, according Insurance Journals Academy of Insurance Director Patrick Wraight. After the winds die down and rains subside, the claims questions and denials begin and agents can find themselves thrust into uncomfortable situations between their customers and their carriers. Thats when the agents errors and omissions insurance kicks in, Wraight said recently in an Academy webinar on agency E&O exposures following Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. The leading cause of agency E&O claims for years has been an agencys failure to procure coverage. E&O insurers fully expect to see an uptick in such claims given this years highly active hurricane season. In 2017, given the number of hurricanes, some errors and omissions carriers will see a spike in this issue, especially around flood and windstorm coverage, Mark R. Angelucci, resident senior vice president and E&O segment leader for Utica National Insurance Group, told Insurance Journal. We do expect to see an increase in claims against agents after hurricanes Harvey and Irma, agrees Robin LaFollette, head of financial and professional claims in North America for Swiss Re Corporate Solutions. Even before a natural disaster is over, clients contact their agents to begin the process of filing a claim and to ask questions about what their policies will and will not cover. E&O is not the main agency concern during a disaster, of course. But having a proper disaster plan helps assure that there are procedures in place to properly serve clients and minimize mistakes during a stressful time for everyone. LaFollette notes that agents must have a plan for mitigating the impact of natural disasters on their own operations and providing services to their clients in a post-catastrophe environment. Just like their clients, agents are at risk of sustaining damage to their operations in a natural disaster, she said. For instance, after Katrina many agents lost all paper files and computers to flooding. Agents should make sure they have critical documents in electronic form backed up on a remote server or in the cloud so that they can be accessed after a flood. Disaster Risk Management According to Insurance Journals 2017 Agency E&O survey, 36.2 percent of respondents believe its important to have an errors and omissions risk management plan specific to handling business related to natural disasters but only 17.1 percent reported actually having such a risk management plan in place. Swiss Res LaFollette says that every agency should have a contingency plan for how it will provide critical services if its office is without power or, worse yet, cannot be accessed at all. Its wise for agents to consider ahead of time whether they should purchase a generator to provide power, she said. They should also have a contingency plan for temporary office space and temporary employees to help with the high volume of claims that their clients will report after large natural disasters such as Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Agents should also check their E&O policies to see if they have catastrophe extra expense coverage that will reimburse them for some of these expenses, LaFollette said. Agencies must have their own disaster recovery plans because they are in the unique position of needing to operate their businesses post-catastrophe, Uticas Angelucci told Insurance Journal. That is exactly the time that many of their customers need them the most. Angelucci recommends that every agency address at least three areas. First, a plan should include a complete list of customers and carriers claim-reporting phone numbers as well as backup locations if their offices are unable to be used, Angelucci said. (Utica National recently developed a tool to assist agents in developing this list.) The second piece involves documentation of the pre-catastrophe binding restrictions of the agencys carriers. This, he said, includes knowing and documenting the submission status of risks needing coverage that were submitted pre-catastrophe so that there is no confusion about whether coverage was in-force or not. This can include payment requirements and knowledge of coverage afforded by wind pools or by the National Flood Insurance Program. For example, some states wind pools only provide building, not contents coverage. The third piece involves documentation of customer procedures. If you are writing risks in hurricane-prone areas, each risk should be advised about the availability or lack thereof of flood coverage, the flood limits, and the deductible if the coverage is written, he said. For homeowners policies, if a carrier offers different hurricane deductibles or limits roof coverage, this must be explained to the insured, and his or her decision about deductibles, limits, etc., must be memorialized back to the insured via a letter or email. These coverage areas seem to drive the most frequent post-catastrophe E&O claims, according to Angelucci. Coverage Offers According to LaFollette, many post-hurricane E&O claims involve nonexistent or inadequate flood or wind coverage, a lack of contingent business interruption coverage, or off-site power failure coverage. Agents can reduce their exposure to these claims by offering their clients policies that cover the kinds of damage we see after a hurricane, she said. It is very important that the agent document his file with evidence that he offered the policy together with the clients response, especially if the offer was rejected. This is the most powerful defense to an E&O claim. Angelucci agrees that it is important for agencies to effectively communicate the outcome of discussions on coverages offered, limits available and coverages declined. Email and work-processing systems make this process as easy as it has ever been, Angelucci said. It is also the most effective way to do business. Policyholders need to understand what they are buying does for them, and conversely, what it doesnt. Quality E&O Product Whether before or after a storm, agency owners never expect to have an E&O claim. We dont want to have them, we dont expect to have them, but we have them, said Angela Schroder, president of U.S. E&O Brokers, a retail insurance brokerage based in Houston that exclusively markets E&O policies nationwide for insurance agents and brokers. Insurance agents E&O protects agencies, the owners, their families and their employees from financial harm. It is their lifeline for what they do every day, said Schroder. You could have a catastrophe at any time in the United States, not just a hurricane, she said. It could be something else and thats why coverage is important every day, not once a year. Agents get it. According to Insurance Journals 2017 Agency E&O Survey, the vast majority of agency owners (89.2 percent) purchase E&O coverage. That was up from 83.5 percent in IJs 2016 survey. Agency owners, too, need to understand the E&O coverage they buy and understand that right after a disaster may not be the best time to shop around for a new policy. Right now, the agency E&O market is stable and competitive, with good availability of markets for quality accounts, according to Schroder. This scenario drives some agents to shop around, which Schroder says is not always a good idea in a post-catastrophe environment. Schroder said she has seen agents shopping their E&O in storm-hit locations. They should just be happy with the policy they have. If theyre not happy with the policy they have, they shouldnt have bought it last year! She worries about agents in Texas, Louisiana and Florida. If your E&O comes up in the next two or three months, Im not sure you really should be changing carriers. You just had a hurricane, she said. Schroder admits that even agency owners dont always read their policies and whats covered. Theyre not reading the endorsements. Theyre not reading what lines of business are covered or not covered. Or that theres no punitive damage coverage or that certain perils are excluded, she said. In some cases, agencies may be purchasing lower cost E&O coverage that doesnt even meet the financial responsibility of the state theyre licensed in, according to Schroder. If you have a corporation and thats how you are doing business, that corporation needs to be the named insured, she said. There are quite a few policies that will only list the agent and not their entity, and that may not meet the financial responsibility requirements. Whats most important is buying an E&O product that covers the agencys exposures, she said. Are they buying a quality product? Or are they just buying a product that, at the end of the year, they might save $500 or $600 or $1,000? Or did they actually buy an E&O product that will cover them in the event that they have a lawsuit against them or a suit against their company? Policy forms vary, according to Schroder. These policy forms do matter, she said. You have to read whats covered. A lot of times, well say, You got a quote and its $500 less. Great. But did you read the policy? Did you read the exclusions?' she said. While many agencies are lucky enough to avoid E&O claims, many others will find themselves facing an E&O allegation at some point. According to Insurance Journals 2017 Agency E&O survey, nearly half of the survey respondents (43.1 percent) have had an E&O claim in the past 10 years. Another 14.3 percent had an E&O more than 10 years ago, while 42.7 percent reported never having an E&O claim. Insurance Journals Agency E&O Survey collected more than 300 responses from agency owners nationwide via an online survey in September 2017. Demotech Inc., Insurance Journals official research partner, assisted with analysis of this years survey results. For more information, contact Andrea Wells at: awells@insurancejournal.com. The insurance industry in Texas is not happy with the states so-called Hurricane Harvey recovery czar. Texas A&M University Chancellor John Sharp, who was named by Gov. Greg Abbott to lead the Commission to Rebuild Texas, drew a quick response from the insurance industry after asserting in an interview that private insurers and their representatives arent doing enough to help their insureds with their Harvey-related property claims. In an interview with Texas Tribune CEO Evan Smith on Sept. 29, Sharp said that too many times in this state, and its happened in other ones, is insurance agents are saying lets see how much money you get from FEMA you know what, thats bull***t. Thats not where the moneys supposed to come from. The first money needs to come from them. Stating that insurance agents need to step up, Sharp said: They need to quit telling their clients, Wait til you get the FEMA money, They need to write a damn check. Sharp added that he has hired a survey company to go in from one end of the coast to the other to see how extensive this is and when we find out how extensive this is, were going to let you know. Responding to Sharps comments, the Independent Insurance Agents of Texas (IIAT) took the opportunity in a written statement to clarify the role independent agents in the claims process. Independent agents are actively on the ground working tirelessly to help Harvey victims file and resolve insurance claims as expediently as possible, IIAT President and Executive Director Marit Peters said in the associations release. Coordinating coverage among property, flood and wind policies, which are often insured through different companies, can be a complex process. The IIAT pointed out that insurers pay claims when they are due under an insurance policy, and said that according to the Insurance Council of Texas (ICT), an estimated $2 billion has already been paid out on insurance claims for Harvey-related flood damage to automobiles and wind damage to homes. In a statement released by the ICT, that organization said Sharps comments are troubling not only because of the billions of dollars insurers have already paid on Harvey-related claims, but because insurance agents and agencies are not responsible for paying claims. Companies review and pay claims if due under the insurance policy, said Mark Hanna, a spokesman for the ICT. Hanna noted that ICT member companies have been serving customers in Harvey-impacted areas since shortly after the hurricane hit near Rockport late on Aug. 25. Insurers have set up mobile assistance stations and continue to receive claims and assist customers all along the Texas coast. The Texas Coalition for Affordable Insurance Solutions (TCAIS), which represents major homeowners insurance companies doing business in Texas (Allstate, Farmers, Nationwide, State Farm and USAA), also weighed in on Sharps comments. In a written statement, TCAIS Executive Director Beaman Floyd said that while Hurricane Harvey was still impacting Texas, homeowners insurance companies brought in thousands of adjusters to begin assessing damage and to file and pay wind damage and automobile loss claims so that Texans could start their recovery. Floyd added that insurance company representatives in Texas are working around the clock to help their customers understand their policy coverage and guide them to the right resources to get disaster assistance. While standard homeowners and renters policies do not provide coverage for flood damage, a comprehensive auto insurance policy would cover the insured vehicle for flood damage. Most flood coverage for residential properties is provided through a separate policy offered by FEMAs National Flood Insurance Program. Note: Guidance on applying for disaster assistance may be found at www.disasterassistance.gov and information on flood coverage processing can be found online. Topics Carriers Agencies Texas Claims Flood Market When cheating becomes habitual, the consequences could be costly. Embattled Kobe Steel Ltd said on Tuesday the U.S. Justice Department is asking the steelmaker to provide documents related to its data falsification scandal. That came after a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters late on Monday that data tampering on products went on for more than a decade, deepening the crisis that has sliced off about $1.6 billion off its market value in just over a week. And that could be just the tip of the iceberg, legal experts have said, given the potential financial and legal fallout as compensation for even a small number of the 500-odd companies engulfed in the scandal could prove costly. Japans No. 3 steelmaker is still trying to nail down the extent of the tampering, said the source, requesting anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. According to an unsourced Nikkei report, the cheating at the firm went on for decades with the knowledge of plant and quality control managers, well over the 10 years that Kobe Steel had acknowledged last week. We cannot confirm the Nikkei report as our investigation is ongoing, a Kobe Steel spokesman said. The revelations on Oct. 8 that the firm had falsified data on product quality and specifications have sent a chill through supply chains around the world in a fresh blow to Japans reputation as a high-quality manufacturing destination. The scandal has ensnared companies from operators of Japans iconic bullet trains to the worlds biggest aircraft maker, Boeing Co,. The Justice Department is seeking documents related to products the firm has sold to U.S. companies, Kobe Steel said. While the company has not fully identified the extent of the cheating, it told analysts and investors on Monday it had nearly 368 billion yen ($3.3 billion) on hand in cash, short-term securities and unused credit from banks. It is also seeking to generate cash by cutting working capital or selling assets. Kobe Steel faces a serious governance issue and management should be replaced which would open the possibility to spin off non-core businesses, Thanh Ha Pham, an analyst at Jefferies wrote in a note on Tuesday. We calculate that, broken apart, Kobe Steel is worth 860.5 billion yen or 2,375.5 yen a share, Thanh said, based on an assumption the cheating scandal will cost it 100 billion yen ($892 million). Kobe Steel shares rose for a second day, gaining 3.1 percent to close at 853 yen, but still way below the pre-crisis level of 1,368 yen. The Nikkei 225 ended 0.4 percent higher. The company will have no problem paying off a 20 billion yen bond due on Oct. 27, the source told Reuters. The firm has forecast a profit for the year through March 2018 after two successive annual losses, but the outlook has been clouded by the potential fallout from the scandal. Facing Risks Kobe Steel Chief Executive Hiroya Kawasaki who said earlier the firms credibility had plunged to zero, disclosed on Friday that about 500 companies had received its falsely certified products, more than double its earlier count. No safety problems have surfaced as Kobe Steel attempts to confirm the extent of the data tampering. The government has ordered the company to address safety concerns within about two weeks and report on how the misconduct occurred in a month. Most of the problems have occurred in the companys aluminium and copper business, where many of the products are made to specifications required by automakers and other companies. But cases of falsified data have also been found in its steel and other businesses. The steelmaker faces a range of legal risks, including compensation sought by clients or their customers, penalties for violating unfair competition laws for false representation among others. The scandal follows other cases of similar malpractice and financial accounting problems at companies including Mitsubishi Motors, Takata Corp and Toshiba Corp, which have dented confidence in Japans manufacturing prowess and corporate governance. I dont understand why the data fabrication has been happening for such a long time, despite growing public scrutiny over product quality, a former executive at another Japanese steelmaker told Reuters. All materials producers face the issue of defective products, but they take various measures to minimize the problems and prevent faulty products being shipped by carrying out multiple checks, he said. The executive said if similar misconduct is found in Kobe Steels specialised steel products division that supplies components more likely to be used for structural purposes, it would have a more serious impact. Such is the extent of Kobe Steels role in global supply chains, the company produces engine valve springs found in half the worlds cars, according to its website. It also counts amongst its former employees Japans Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who worked at Kobe Steel from 1979 before entering politics in the early 80s and who has pushed Japanese companies to embrace international corporate governance standards. ($1 = 112.1500 yen) (Reporting by Yoshiyasu Shida; additional reporting by Yuka Obayashi, Sam Nussey and Kentaro Hamada; writing by Aaron Sheldrick; editing by Himani Sarkar & Shri Navaratnam) Related: Marsh announced the appointment of Siegmund Fahrig as CEO of its Continental Europe region, effective immediately. Fahrig succeeds Flavio Piccolomini, who was recently appointed CEO of Marshs International Division. Prior to his appointment, Fahrig served as CEO of Marshs operations in Germany, Central & Eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Based in Dusseldorf, Fahrig will be responsible for enhancing client experience and delivering Marshs world-class risk advisory and strategic services to clients across the region. He will continue as CEO of Marsh Germany and reports to Piccolomini. During his tenure at Marsh, Fahrig has held leadership roles of increasing responsibility prior to being named CEO of Marsh Germany in 2010. During his career which began at Gerling, he has had held senior roles within the industry, including 10 years at the captive broker of Readymix AG, which is now known as CEMEX. He joined Marsh in October 2000 as office head of Marsh Dusseldorf. Source: Marsh Topics Europe Kansas Commissioner of Insurance Ken Selzer announced that workers compensation insurance rates on average will drop in his state in 2018. The National Council on Compensations Insurance Inc. (NCCI) filing for the 2018 workers compensation rate shows a decrease of 7.6 percent in the voluntary base rate and a decrease of 5.8 percent for assigned risk workers compensation rates. The decreases affect many of the approximately 65,000 Kansas businesses that pay workers compensation insurance. Adding together the rate decreases Kansas business owners saw in 2015, 2016, 2017 and now 2018, over a four-year period, the rates will have dropped almost 39 percent in the voluntary base rate and nearly 39 percent in the assigned risk rate. In Kansas, 65 percent of workers compensation benefit distribution goes to pay medical claims, and 35 percent goes to indemnity claims, according to statistics from the NCCI. The 2018 NCCI filing applies to all insurance carriers writing workers compensation policies for businesses in the state. The Kansas Insurance Department staff approved the new filings for a Jan. 1, 2018, effective date. NCCI prepares workers compensation rate recommendations and manages the nations largest database of workers comp information. Source: Kansas Insurance Department Topics Trends Workers' Compensation Pricing Trends Kansas Wayne Wignes, a specialist in aviation and aerospace insurance, has joined Alliant Insurance Services as a senior vice president. He is based in Chicago. At Alliant he will provide targeted risk management and insurance solutions to a national portfolio of clients as the company continues to expand its reach within the industry. Wignes joins Alliant with an extensive background in aviation and aerospace risks that includes the design and deployment of strategic risk management and insurance solutions covering aircraft products manufacturers, government contractors, large rotor wing operators, and large fixed-wing operators. He also has extensive experience handling the highly complex claims process associated with the industry. Prior to joining Alliant, Wignes was vice chairman in the aerospace division of a global risk and insurance agency. His extensive brokerage experience includes positions with three of the worlds largest insurance agencies, where he has worked with major and national commercial airlines, regional airlines, charter airlines, and cargo operations. Alliant Insurance Services Inc. is headquartered in Newport Beach, Calif. Source: Alliant Insurance Services Topics Aviation Alliant Aerospace Minnesota chiropractor and two co-defendants have been convicted by a federal jury for their roles in an insurance fraud conspiracy, state Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman announced. Chiropractor Preston Ellard Forthun, 39, of Bloomington, was convicted on charges of conspiracy, mail fraud and wire fraud. Co-defendants Abdisalan Abdulahab Hussein, 48, and Carlos Patricio Luna, 49, both of Minneapolis, were also convicted for their roles in the scheme. The jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts against the three defendants following a 10-day trial before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Davis, Forthun was a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic. Beginning in at least 2010, he devised a scheme to defraud auto insurance companies by hiring patient recruiters, known as runners, to solicit auto accident victims to attend treatments at his clinic, Comprehensive Rehabilitation Centers of MN (Comprehensive Rehab). According to Rothmans announcement, Forthun and his co-defendant Darryl Humenny, who was also a Doctor of Chiropractic with Comprehensive Rehab and who previously pleaded guilty, paid the runners, including Hussein and Luna, between $1,000 and $1,500 for each patient they brought to Comprehensive Rehab so the two chiropractors could bill services to the insurance companies. To disguise the payments, Forthun typically paid the runners in cash or wrote checks made out to cash, along with a bogus description in the memo line indicating that the payment was for marketing, petty cash, transportation, interpreting or supplies. From 2011 through 2015, Forthun and Humenny wrote more than 400 checks, totaling at least $500,000. Forthun structured the scheme in a way that would maximize Comprehensive Rehabs billings to the insurance companies. Forthun and Humenny withheld kickback payments to the runners until after the patients had attended a certain number of treatment sessions, typically between six and 12. Frequently, the runners gave a large portion of the kickback payments they had received to the patients they had referred in order to make sure that patients attended the minimum number of treatment sessions. Thus, the kickback payments were intended to ensure that patients came for treatments at Comprehensive Rehab because of the payments, as opposed to the necessity and reasonableness of the treatments. Through the execution of their fraud scheme, Fothun and Humenny billed millions of dollars to the auto insurance companies. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau and the FBI. Additional assistance was provided by the Minneapolis Police Department, Saint Paul Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations. Source: Minnesota Commerce Department Topics Auto Fraud Minnesota Insurance Journal today launched a contest in conjunction with Insurance Careers Movement on what young insurance professionals believe is the coolest part of their job. Its a bit tricky, however, because participants must give their answer in a photo or a video and they cant use any spoken words. The contest is open to anyone employed in the insurance industry who is under-40 years old as of Sept. 30, 2017. Contestants are encouraged to submit their own 10-second video (with no spoken words) or a photo, answering this question: What is the coolest part of your job? To explain their answer with no spoken words, contestants are free to use a chalkboard, paper, a screen or anything theyd like in the video or photo. Creativity is encouraged. Insurance Careers Movement is a cross-industry initiative to promote career opportunities in risk management and insurance. We look forward to some amazing contest submissions,said Marguerite Tortorello, managing director, Insurance Careers Movement. Young professionals are driving innovation in their companies and helping organizations do good in their communities. We are proud to partner with Insurance Journal on this clever contest and appreciate their support of the industry. We have some cool prizes, notes Kelly de la Mora, senior coordinator of Sales and Marketing, Wells Media Group, parent company of Insurance Journal. All complete submissions will be entered into prize drawings for an Insurance Journal Academy of Insurance Annual All Access Membership ($597 value) and an Amazon Echo ($99.99 value). In addition to the Academy membership and the Amazon Echo, winners have a chance to have their photo or video featured on insurancejournal.com the highest-trafficked property/casualty insurance news site on Planet Earth. Plus, contestants also have a chance to be featured in an advertisement in Insurance Journal Magazine. This gives the winner some major bragging rights! de la Mora contends. The deadline to enter the contest is Thurs., Nov. 16, 2017, and the winner will be announced Mon., Dec. 4, 2017. For more information or to submit an entry, visit: ijmag.com/contest. Over 40? Thats OK. Feel free to share this cool job contest link with the young insurance stars in your life. Insurance Journal products include national and regional Insurance Journal magazines and the P/C insurance industrys leading website. Its San Diego, Calif.-based parent corporation, Wells Media Group, serves the entire property/casualty insurance industry with brands that include Carrier Management website and magazine; Claims Journal website for P/C claims professionals; MyNewMarkets, an online database of available P/C markets; Insurance Journal TV, a media site featuring insurance industry videos and podcasts; and the Academy of Insurance, an online learning center for P/C insurance professionals. Insurance Careers Movement is a cross-industry, multi-phased initiative designed to raise awareness of the career opportunities in the risk management and insurance profession and to recruit the next generation of industry leaders. It is a collaborative of more than 850 insurance carriers, agents/brokers, trade associations and industry partners. Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Talent Property Casualty Market Online home and rental insurer Lemonade has said it is limiting its coverage for gun owners as part of its commitment to make insurance into a social good. Citing the recent Las Vegas mass shooting, Lemonade CEO Daniel Schreiber blogged: Our company, like our community, includes gun owners as well as gun control advocates. Many are both. But while we respect gun ownership, were not into gun worship. The insurer said it will limit the amount it will pay out for the damage or theft of firearms to an entirely adequate $2,500. If you own more than $2,500-worth of firearms, we recommend trying one of our competitors. They seem to all offer additional coverage. We dont, Schreiber wrote. Lemonades policy already excludes coverage for any illegal guns or gun use, but in its revised policy it plans to add more firearms provisions to exclude assault rifles and add requirements that firearms be stored securely and used responsibly or coverage could be voided. As an insurance company, it falls to us to shield our customers from damage to their guns, and by their guns. It stands to reason that we want members who take the responsibilities of gun ownership as seriously as we do, Schreiber wrote. He said the company recognizes that guns can be a polarizing topic but said Lemonade was founded to make insurance into a social good. Were under no illusion that our industry, let alone our company, can solve gun violence. But being unable to change much doesnt give us license to change nothing. Heres to everyone doing their part, he wrote. The new gun policy comes just days after Lemonade made headlines by launching a public API (application programming interface), allowing anyone to offer Lemonade policies through their apps or websites. Related: Topics Carriers Gun Liability New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! Freelancing is growing. The freelance workforce grew from 53 million in 2014 to 55 million in 2016 and currently represents 35 percent of the U.S. workforce. This freelance workforce earned an estimated $1 trillion this past year, representing a significant share of the U.S. economy. This information is from the third annual Freelancing in America: 2016, a study of the independent workforce survey commissioned by the freelance gig website Upwork and the resource and benefits provider Freelancers Union. The freelance workforce is the fastest-growing component of the economy. Figuring out where it is going is the most pressing question of our digital age, said Louis Hyman, associate professor and director of the Institute for Workplace Studies, Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations. Additional trends revealed in the the study: People are increasingly freelancing by choice as the job market changes Asked whether they started freelancing more by choice or necessity, 63 percent of freelancers said by choice up 10 points since 2014. The majority of freelancers said that today, having a diversified portfolio of clients is more secure than having one employer. Technology is enabling freelancing 73 percent of freelancers said that technology has made it easier to find freelance work up four points since 2014. Additionally, 66 percent of freelancers said the amount of work they have obtained online has increased in the past year. Upwork CEO Stephane Kasriel said independent professionals are an increasingly integral part of the U.S. workforce. We should be addressing their interests or America will fall behind countries that are better equipping their evolving workforces, Kasroel said. This discussion is tricky though because there is no shortcut to understanding who a freelancer is the independent workforce is diverse given each individuals freedom to create their own path. Other study findings reveal some of the forces behind the growth of the freelance workforce: Better than traditional job. More than three-quarters (79 percent) of freelancers said they view freelancing as better than working at a traditional job with an employer. Freelancers were much more likely to describe themselves as engaged in their work than non-freelancers (85 percent of freelancers vs. only 68 percent of non-freelancers). Half of freelancers (50 percent) said they wouldnt go back to a traditional job, no matter how much pay they were offered. Freedom and flexibility. Among full-time freelancers, the top three reasons people said they freelance in rank order were: 1) To be their own boss, 2) To have work schedule flexibility and 3) To have work location flexibility. On average, full-time freelancers work 36 hours per week, and the majority (52 percent) say they have the right amount of work. Perceptions changing. Almost 60 percent of freelancers think the freelance job market has changed as compared to three years ago. Of these, 63 percent said perceptions of freelancing as a career are becoming more positive. Nearly half (46 percent) of full-time freelancers raised their rates in the past year. The survey also touches on obstacles to growth of freelancing. Income predictability and related issues are most on freelancers minds. Among full-time freelancers, top concerns in rank order were: 1) Being paid a fair rate, 2) Unpredictable income and 3) Debt. Benefits was also a key issue, with 20 percent of full-time freelancers without health insurance and 54 percent of those who purchase health plans on their own paying more than the previous year. When it comes to benefits, two-thirds of freelancers also said they would prefer to purchase benefits on their own versus 34 percent who would prefer receiving a benefits package from an employer or client and taking home less pay. Employees vs. Contractors The question of whether some freelancers or on-demand workers are employees or independent contractors continues to be a challenge in insurance-related situations. The National Labor Relations Board recently issued a complaint against the on-demand home cleaning platform Handy Technologies alleging that workers who provide its cleaning services are employees despite the companys claims to the contrary. The issue has been ongoing with Uber and Lyft and other rideshare drivers. Cities and states are grappling with how to give independent contractors access to workers compensation, unemployment insurance, and help paying for health insurance. Wisconsin-based insurer Amercian Family Mutual has been caught up in the dispute. A federal jury in Cleveland this year determined that thousands of the insurers agents are employees, not independent contractors. Others see opportunity in the growth of the freelance, on-demand or gig economy. Last year, global claims management firm Crawford & Co. acquired a majority interest in WeGoLook, an online and mobile inspection firm that calls itself the Uber of inspections. Crawford said it agreed to pay $36.1 million for an 85 percent stake in WeGoLook, which has more than 30,000 mobile workers known as lookers who collect and verify information using their smartphone cameras. In May, Bunker, a startup digital insurance broker focused on independent contractors and small businesses, raised $6 million in Series A funding that was on top of $2 million in sed finding it raised earlier. Hiscox and American Family are among the backers. Insurtech Nexts insurance platform targets personal trainers, yoga instructors, landscapers, carpenters, janitorial services and photographers. Another insurance startup, Slice Labs Inc., which is also targeting participants in the on-demand economy, announced last week raised that it $11.6 million and it is looking to sell its platform directly to large insurance carriers. Interested insurers will be able to integrate the turnkey Slice platform into their own operations to sell insurance products for the sharing economy. Another insurance entrepreneur, Sharon Emek, has built Work at Home Vintage Experts (WAHVE), a national staffing firm that places vintage insurance professionals in agencies and brokerages. They work from home on a full-time or part-time basis. For the the Upwork and Freelance Union study, Edelman Intelligence surveyed more than 6,000 U.S. working adults over the age of 18 online. Of those, 2,049 were freelancers and 3,953 were non-freelancers. Upwork is a global largest freelancing website. Upwork is headquartered in Mountain View, Calif. Freelancers Union, which offers benefits and other resources for independent contractors, has about 300,000 members including lawyers, nannies, and graphic designers. A study released in 2016 by JPMorgan Chase Institute looked at a subset of the broader gig economy. The report, titled Paychecks, Paydays and the Online Platform Economy, found an estimated 10.3 million Americans earned income through web-based platforms like Uber and Airbnb between 2012 and 2015. Thats about 6.5 percent of the total U.S. workforce. Topics Trends The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) will conduct a public hearing to discuss the National Council on Compensation Insurances (NCCI) proposed overall statewide average workers compensation premium decrease of 9.6 percent on Oct. 18 at 1:00 pm EST. The public hearing will be held at 412 Knott Building, 404 South Monroe Street, Florida Capitol Complex in Tallahassee. The proposed rate decrease, filed in August, includes a statewide average rate decrease of 9.3 percent and a reduction of the fixed expense cost applicable to every workers compensation policy in Florida from $200 to $160. If approved, the new rates would take effect Jan. 1, 2018. NCCI said an 8 percent decrease in claims is the major driver of the proposed decrease, which comes just a year or so after two 2016 Florida Supreme Court decisions sent rates up 14.5 percent for 2017. OIR said the general public is welcome to submit comments about NCCIs proposed rate filing by sending an email to: ratehearings@floir.com with NCCI in the subject line of the email. Comments will be accepted for consideration until 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Oct. 25, 2017. Under Florida law, written communications to the Office are public record and subject to disclosure, including being available to the public and media. A copy of the hearing agenda is available on the OIR website. The Florida Channel will stream the hearing live online via its website and a link to the video recording will be available at a later date. Additional information is available on OIRs NCCI Public Rate Hearing webpage. Source: Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Topics Florida Workers' Compensation Freehold, NJ, October 17, 2017 Mgaero welcomes InsurTech industry executive Alex Tsetsenekos as head of business development. Tsetsenekos brings nearly twenty years of diverse leadership experience in the insurance industry to the team. Most recently he was the founder of Archimedes Analytics where he served as chief underwriting officer and operational lead for two InsurTech firms looking to develop differentiated property technologies. Tsetsenekos will lead the new business and client relationship initiatives as part of Mgaero. Additionally, he will work closely with the technology team to ensure client scope of work is clearly set forth using his vast insurance underwriting and operational expertise to allow for a timely and on-budget implementation. As Tsetsenekos has a range of insurance product and distribution expertise, his perspective will lend valuable insights to Mgaeros client base. Alex has a deep understanding of the insurance business coupled with entrepreneurial experience as an early adopter of technology in our space. Having proven his business transformation acumen, he is in the unique position to help drive technology to deliver on clients goals while offering an informed and realistic perspective, stated Cliff Karlin, president of Mgaero. Previously, Tsetsenekos served as the head of an underwriting business transformation team and small commercial insurance for QBE N.A. As the InsurTech market was quickly evolving, he additionally gained valuable experience in working in varied technology and distribution leadership roles for Starr Companies, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, Zurich, Farmers, Innovation First and Liberty Mutual. As Ive been fortunate to be on the forefront of the InsurTech revolution, Ive been integrally involved in several early successes while seeing the clear need for the Mgaero platform in our space. Mgaero fills the niche of delivering reliability and scalability for online rate-quote-bind technology with the needed flexibility at a value-driven price that clients deserve, stated Tsetsenekos. Program administrators, manager general agencies and carriers need a reliable partner and Im here because I know Mgaero will be relevant now and into the future he added. Tsetsenekos is moderating an InsurTech panel The Accelerating Change of the Insurance Landscape at the 17th Annual Target Markets Program Administrators Summit in Scottsdale, Arizona and is a frequent industry contributor and speaker. He received his Masters in Business Administration from Northeastern University and his Bachelor of Science from Boston University. He can be reached at alext@mgaerorisk.com or 781.708.6747. About Mgaero LLC Mgaero delivers innovative cloud-based technology solutions to automate the rate-quote-bind needs of insurance carriers, program administrators and distributors without the cost and time burden typically associated with such powerful industry software. The easily customizable Mgaero technology platform is built on a proven foundation for insurance business processes and rapid implementation is led by industry experts who know how to leverage technology to lift your success and save time and money doing so. Founded in 2016 by Cliff Karlin, the company provides InsurTech leadership and insights via its Business Velocity blog at mgaerorisk.com/business-velocity. For more information visit the Mgaero website or call 732.303.7347. Media Contact Caren Henry chenry@mgaerorisk.com 267.961.8252 Topics InsurTech Tech Insurance Wholesale Un ottobre da sogno per Antonio Conte: lex ct della Nazionale italiana, attualmente alla guida del Chelsea, nelle ultime quattro gare di Premier League ha collezionato solo successi, conditi da 11 reti segnate e addirittura nessuna incassata. Numeri da record che non sono certo passati inosservati alla Federazione inglese, la quale ha conferito al tecnico leccese lambito premio di Manager del mese. Unavventura oltremanica iniziata in sordina, quella di Conte, pur a fronte di tre vittorie nelle prime tre gare di campionato. A far vacillare, anche se solo per un momento, le certezze del patron del club londinese, Roman Abramovich, i risultati conseguiti tra la 4a e la 6a giornata, coincisi con un pareggio sul campo dello Swansea City e, soprattutto, con le due pesanti sconfitte subite dal Liverpool, sul terreno casalingo di Stamford Bridge, e dallArsenal. In particolare, la debacle interna coi Reds, aveva irritato non poco il numero uno russo, poiche occorsa proprio nel giorno della sua 250esima partita da presidente della societa. Come detto, solo un momento. Dopo lincontro dellEmirates, il tecnico salentino cambia modulo, adottando un piu equilibrato 3-4-3 e inserendo elementi di corsa come lo spagnolo Pedro. Una svolta totale perche, di li in poi, il Chelsea inanellera solo e soltanto vittorie: 2 gol allHull City e al Southampton in trasferta, 3 ai campioni dInghilterra del Leicester e 4 allo United in casa, con un meraviglioso numero zero nella casella delle reti subite. Un fantastico poker, ottenuto tra l1 e il 29 ottobre. Un cambio di marcia sbalorditivo, confermato dal 5 a 0 rifilato ai toffees dellEverton nel primo match di novembre, e una scalata che, man mano, ha portato i blues al secondo posto in classifica, a soli 2 punti dal Liverpool capolista. E allora, non poteva mancare il riconoscimento di migliore allenatore del mese, ottenuto surclassando tecnici del calibro di Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool), Arsene Wenger (Arsenal) e Mark Hughes (Southampton). Tanta, ovviamente, la soddisfazione: E un grande onore e voglio condividerlo con i giocatori e con la societa ha dichiarato Conte sul sito ufficiale della Premier League -. E la prima volta che lavoro in un altro Paese, con una cultura diversa, e portare la propria filosofia non e facile, ma ora sono contento di questa scelta. A completare la festa, la premiazione del fantasista belga, Eden Hazard, come miglior giocatore di ottobre. Due risultati importanti per il club, ottimo incentivo per la rincorsa al trono dei campioni, occupato dal Leicester di Ranieri. Il prossimo appuntamento per l11 di Conte sara al Riverside Stadium, tana del Middlesborough neopromosso. Il tempo di festeggiare e gia finito. Top News - Investor Idea Breaking EV Stock News: Mullen's (NASDAQ: MULN) 'Strikingly Different' EV Crossover Tour Heads to Texas After Completing a Successful Sold Out Stop in Las Vegas BREA, Calif. - November 15, 2022 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Mullen Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN), an emerging electric vehicle ("EV") manufacturer, announces today that it has successfully completed the third stop of the Mullen FIVE Strikingly Different EV Crossover Tour in Las Vegas, Nevada. Top AI News - Investor Idea Breaking AI Stock News: FatBrain (OTCQB: LZGI) Acquires UK-based Forecasting Innovator Predictive Black To Help SMEs Optimize Cash Management NEW YORK, NY - November 15, 2022 (Investorideas.com Newswire) FatBrain AI (LZG International, Inc.) (OTCQB: LZGI), the leader in powerful and easy-to-use artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for star enterprises of tomorrow (some call SMEs), has acquired Predictive Black Ltd, a UK-based innovator of real-time cash management, financial insights and business wellness for SMEs. Top Fashion News - Investor Idea New Fashion Designer Launches this Holiday Season in Kelowna and Online; Sweet Dees Creations Fun, Flirty and Affordable Kelowna B.C. - November 14, 2022 (Investorideas.com Newswire) A local fashion designer is launching a new women's line at Kelowna markets and online this Holiday Season that will make heads turn with her whimsical and colourful choices Check out our Podcasts for great investor ideas: Get new posts by email: Subscribe Powered by Investorideas.com Newswire: Subscribe to Investor Ideas Newswire ARE YOU A TOP COMPANY? What it Really Means to be a Top Company! To be a Top Company in Irish Construction Industry Magazines Top Companies listing means far more than just a rank and position in an ordered catalogue of names. To us, it means that your efforts to be the best you can be and to excel in your industry and sector have been effective and have paid dividends. To us, it means that your determination and commitment to develop and instil a positive work culture and environment have brought your business due success plus satisfaction. We see it as you being a supportive and inclusive place in which to work that strives to bring the best out of everyone across every level of the organisation. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE Former US president Bill Clinton has flown into Belfast for a number private engagements. It is understood Mr Clinton is meeting Democratic Unionist leader Arlene Foster and will make an announcement about a new educational initiative in her home constituency of Fermanagh. The visit comes after the US statesman received an honorary degree in Dublin. He was due to fly to the North on Monday but the trip was postponed due to Storm Ophelia. It is understood Mr Clinton will announce an academic link-up with universities on both sides of the Atlantic that will see the re-opening of a centre already named in his honour in Enniskillen. Since his first visit to the North in 1995 Mr Clinton has been the most high-profile international champion of the peace process. Three visits while he was US president and several since he left office have underlined his stated commitment to being an enabler of compromise. However he has also taken on the role of exerting pressure on both sides when political progress seemed to have stalled. During his most recent visit earlier this year for the funeral of Martin McGuinness, he urged party leaders to complete the work of the former IRA commander turned politician, and to restore powersharing. The Stormont government collapsed in January after the resignation of Mr McGuinness as deputy first minister, in a row over the DUP's handling of a botched renewable heat energy scheme. Months of talks aimed at restoring powersharing have so far failed, with Sinn Fein and the DUP unable to reach agreement on a number of key areas, including an Irish Language Act and legacy issues. Ireland should seek EU emergency funding to help tackle the aftermath of Ophelia, according to the Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly. Mr Kelly says the Government needs to direct local authorities to calculate the cost of the damage. The National Emergency Coordination Group will reconvene this morning at 10am to assess the damage from across the country following Storm Ophelia. The MEP said Ireland has received such funding in the past. He said: "We did this during my first time in parliament and the y actually reduced the threshold so that we should qualify. "I think now that there is a new sense of being in Europe and involving more people, I hope that we could make an application and it would be well received." The Cabinet meets in Dublin this morning to discuss the cost and clean-up of the worst weather event in Ireland in more than 50 years. Each Minister will bring their individual memos on everything from getting the schools and roads reopened to the overall cost of the damage. The bill from Ophelia will run to many tens of millions and the Cabinet will discuss using existing state funds and the disaster funds available from the European Union. Update 3.37pm: Malta has appealed to the FBI and to European forensic experts to help investigate the car bomb death of the country's leading investigative journalist. In her crusade against corruption, Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, took on top politicians and other powerful Maltese, including by exposing links through the Panama Papers leak. Ordinary Maltese called for a strike to demand that whoever was behind Monday's bombing be found and brought to justice. Graffiti quoting the last words she wrote: "There are crooks everywhere you look" popped up on the island on Tuesday. Some EU politicians are pressing for closer scrutiny of the tiny European Union nation in the Mediterranean Sea, which is considered a banking haven. Earlier: A Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers has been killed as a bomb exploded in her car. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Malta's main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicle's wreckage spiralling over a wall and into a field, prime minister Joseph Muscat said. He acknowledged she was "one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level", but denounced the "barbaric attack" as "unacceptable" violence that also assaulted freedom of expression. One of the topics the veteran reporter examined was what the documents from the 2016 leak said about Malta. She wrote that Mr Muscat's wife, the country's energy minister and the government's chief-of-staff had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. Mr Muscat and his wife Michelle denied having companies in Panama. Ms Caruana Galizia filed a police report two weeks ago saying she was receiving threats, police told Maltese news outlets on Monday. She had been a regular columnist for the Malta Independent, writing twice weekly for the newspaper since 1996. She also wrote a blog called Running Commentary, which was followed by many in Malta. Half an hour before she was killed, she posted to her website an item about a libel claim the prime minister's chief of staff had brought against a former opposition figure over comments the latter made about corruption. Ms Caruana Galizia had been sued for libel over articles she wrote for her blog. Opposition leader Adrian Delia sued her over a series of stories linking him to a prostitution racket in London, and economy minister Chris Cardona claimed libel when she wrote that he visited a brothel while in Germany on government business. Monday evening's parliamentary session was scrapped, except for briefings about the bombing given by Mr Muscat and Mr Delia, who called the reporter's killing a "political murder". Mr Muscat said he had asked the US government and the FBI for help investigating the car bombing. Ms Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband and three sons. One son, Matthew, was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal. The leak exposed the identities of rich and powerful people around the world who allegedly had offshore holdings in Panama. Ms Caruana Galizia's family has asked the Courts of Malta to have the magistrate assigned to conduct the inquiry into the journalist's death replaced. The family said the magistrate, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, "in her personal capacity, had launched judicial procedures against (Caruana Galizia) regarding comments she had written". Ms Caruana Galizia for many years was a harsh critic of Malta's Labour party and government. More recently she had expanded her criticism to include the opposition Nationalist Party. Her murder drew swift denunciations in the tiny EU nation. "Daphne played a vitally important role in unearthing serious allegations of money laundering and corruption in Malta, including those involving senior figures in the Maltese government," said Sven Giegold, a Greens member in the European Parliament. Italian news weekly L'Espresso, which has also written about alleged corruption linked to Malta, said the murder demonstrated that a well-documented expose "is perceived as a danger by the powerful and by organised crime". European Parliament president Antonio Tajani called the development a "tragic example of a journalist who sacrificed her life to search for the truth". AP The pound rallied above $1.33 on that prospect last week, before a spokesman for German Chancellor Angela Merkel shot down the idea. Markets are eyeing December as the next important deadline to make progress in the talks, with just over a year to go at that point until Britain leaves the European Union. While most currency strategists see some kind of agreement or transition as a base case scenario, the chance of not getting a deal is a significant risk. How much Britain has to pay the EU is the most important factor in determining the success of the talks, said Hans Redeker, global head of currency strategy at Morgan Stanley. Should we get an acceptable divorce, we will get a Brexit deal, he said, adding that there was a 15% probability of a no deal resulting in the currency falling as low as $1.11. Mizuho Bank said there was a reasonably high probability of a no deal although this will likely reduce closer to the exit date, said Neil Jones, head of hedge fund sales, giving a 35%-40% chance of the UK leaving without a deal. If so, sterling would fall to $1.10, he said. Britain leaving the EU without a deal is still a low-probability scenario, perhaps around 20%, said Group-of-10 currency strategist Jeremy Stretch at Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. If no progress is announced at the EUs December summit, that probability would soar, perhaps making it a 50-50 and lead to the pound falling sharply lower, to below $1.25 and towards 94p against the euro. Nomura estimated the likelihood of Britain tumbling out of the EU with World Trade Organisation rules at 20%, while Rabobank head of currency strategy Jane Foley sees a 30% probability of a no deal. Meanwhile, the Brexit worries of some of Britains biggest businesses have eased slightly over the past three months and optimism is up from a low struck after Junes unexpected election result, a survey by accountants Deloitte showed. The poll of chief financial officers who make investment decisions at Britains biggest companies showed the proportion who think Brexit will damage business dropped to 60% from 72% in the previous survey. Despite Brexit uncertainties, a broadening global recovery has helped lift sentiment among CFOs, said Ian Stewart, chief economist at Deloitte. The Vauxhall plant needs to improve its competitiveness to match the companys plants in France, a PSA spokesman said yesterday, confirming an earlier report by Automotive News. The uncertainty about the future trade deals between the UK and the EU, after Brexit, also played a role in the decision. PSA acquired the Vauxhall and Opel brands as part of its purchase of General Motors European operations in August. The French company, which gave assurances to the French, German, and British governments over jobs and keeping plants open, plans to detail its turnaround plan for the UK and German brands in November. Investment decisions in the UK are halted until the company gets more visibility on the Brexit consequences, the PSA spokesman said. Last month at the Frankfurt auto show, PSA chief executive Carlos Tavares said the company would narrow down possible Brexit scenarios to two by Christmas, as he demanded guidance from authorities on possible outcomes. The Ellesmere Port plant, near Liverpool, makes the Astra model, which has suffered falling demand. It currently employs 1,800 people. The 400 job cuts will be completed by the end of the year and will be voluntary departures, the spokesman said, as production shifts will be reduced from two to one. The decision reflects Vauxhalls market share loss in Europe. The brand had a 7.3% market share in the UK as of September, down from 8.9% a year earlier. Even as PSA has pledged to honour existing union agreements, this opens the debate once again around whether PSA will close any of the Opel or Vauxhall plants, Evercore analyst Arndt Ellinghorst said. We see a strong argument for the closure of three plants by 2021-2022, given that production could be moved to existing plants without the need for significantly additional capacity, he added. Vauxhall also has a plant in Luton, in the south-east of England. The PSA spokesman said the company had no plan to cut headcount there. These figures were revealed at the The Cattle Association of Veterinary Ireland (CAVI) annual conference in the Rochestown Park Hotel, Cork, as part of the associations promotion of the benefits of the knowledge transfer programme. CAVI chair Conor Geraghty, of Geraghty and Neary vets in Galway, discussed the survey findings. He said risk assessment data is becoming a valuable resource for the individual farmers to improve output. Results from year one risk assessment data demonstrate that not all farmers are achieving targets related to health, disease, mortality, or welfare, but that specific issues are now being identified through the knowledge transfer initiative, which are helping farmers to develop solutions and improve practices, Mr Geraghty told the 150 farm vets at the conference. Dairy farmer Dick ONeill described how he now considers veterinary spend as an investment in health, rather than paying for disease management. Mr ONeill, who milks 260 cows at Warren Farm in East Cork as part of a milk production partnership, also demonstrated how a proactive herd health management approach developed with his vet has paid dividends on his farm over the last decade. Meanwhile, Irish livestock vets delivered a number of presentations with a focus on mastitis and selective dry cow therapy, including Conor Beirne (Mountbellew, Co Galway), Willie Buckley (Bandon, Co Cork), Tommy Heffernan (Co Wicklow) and John Berkery (Newport, Co Tipperary). Presentations included case studies on dairy herds with high SCC and demonstrated how farmers can be helped by their vet to come back to target levels. Conor Beirne practices in Mountbellew while continuing to work on dairy projects in Saudi Arabia and Jordan. He quoted the example of Almarai in Saudi Arabia, which owns a herd of 90,000 Holstein dairy cows across six super farms. The Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI) decided just this summer to instruct its members to end the industrial action which saw them refuse to take part in continuous professional development (CPD) associated with the reforms. The smaller Teachers Union of Ireland membership in second-level schools signed up to the reforms in September 2015 after some concessions on the original plans had been negotiated with the Department of Education. The departments 2016 accounts show that junior cycle reform was one of the areas of CPD where costs were lower than expected. There were other savings due to reduced uptake on some support schemes and lower-than-expected participation in some courses, for which substitutes would normally be paid to facilitate teacher absences from schools. Other teacher education categories like the TL21 (Teaching and Learning for the 21st Century) programme, Active School Awards, and Arts Charter project also saw less spent than had been allowed for. The 22.6m spent on teacher education last year was 200,000 less than in 2015, but 5.3m or nearly one fifth short of the 27.9m set aside within the 2016 budget. Despite last years under-spend, the same figure of 27.9m was provided under the departments teacher education 2017 budget, although it was uncertain when the allocation was finalised late last year if the ASTI industrial action would continue or for how long. In June, a special convention of ASTI branch delegates from around the country decided to suspend the industrial action on junior cycle reform. As a result, they are now co-operating with all aspects of the revised junior cycle, including new methods of assessing students in addition to the final Junior Certificate exams. Some of the related training has already begun, as ASTI members who teach English catch up with CPD provided over the last two years to TUI counterparts. Further whole-school courses on the junior cycle framework are being rolled out this term, with further training to be provided for those who teach business studies and science to junior cycle students. English was the first subject in which the reforms have been rolled out, and all students who did the Junior Certificate this summer were assessed differently to previous years. Meanwhile, ASTIs 18,000 members are balloting on the latest public service pay deal, with a recommendation from its 180-member central executive council not to accept it. The deal has already been rejected by the Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO) and Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) because it did not commit to restoring pay equality for post-2011 entrants to the profession in its four-year timeframe. But since the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) public services committee decided in an aggregate vote of unions to accept the deal last month, the INTO and TUI executives have decided to take part in talks around other measures to address pay of newer entrants to the public service. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar indicated the move will be discussed today as it separately emerged that a Government report has warned that the future cost of dealing with extreme weather events could run into billions of euro a year. Speaking on RTE News last night after attending a series of national emergency co-ordination group meetings and after speaking with British prime minister Theresa May about the storm response, Mr Varadkar said that while Ophelia is still raging in some areas, attention will today turn to the clean-up operation. He said local authority officials, the Defence Forces, and ESB will this morning begin assessing the damage, while further help from Northern Irish, English, and Scottish authorities will be sought from tomorrow. Asked if additional emergency funds will be available, the Taoiseach said the full resources of the State will be made available, with cabinet sources saying the total could reach into the millions of euro. Mr Varadkar joined Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy, Transport Minister Shane Ross, and others in offering his and the Governments condolences to three people who died yesterday, saying: I would implore everyone to put safety first. Mr Varadkars comments came as Fine Gael colleague and Seanad EU Affairs spokesman Neale Richmond said Ireland should access the EU solidarity fund for extreme weather events in response to Ophelia. It also emerged last night that the Governments Draft National Adaptation Framework report warned that extreme weather could cost Ireland billions of euro every year unless action is taken. An early version of the report, due to be finalised by December, was published by the Department of Climate Action last month and predicted a six-fold increase in road repair, flooding, infrastructure,and societal costs by 2050. Meanwhile, Mr Varadkar earlier rejected claims that the Government was caught off-guard by Storm Ophelia due to the fact that a series of service shutdowns and severe weather warnings were only issued on Sunday night. He also said companies may have to pay workers who could not go to work yesterday, though this view is understood to be disputed. In a separate interview, junior minister for defence Paul Kehoe said it was ludicrous that some people ignored severe weather warnings to swim in the sea or take pictures on piers. While it is recognised that some schools may not be as badly impacted as others, the information available at this time indicates that over 350,000 businesses and homes are already without power, and severe winds continue to cause damage across the country as the storm progresses, the Department of Education said yesterday afternoon. It is also the case that school authorities will in very many cases not have had an opportunity to check their buildings and confirm they are safe, have power and water, and that routes to the school are safely open. The department said it recognised that the decision to close schools would have a major impact on families and on the workforce. However, this decision has been taken in the interests of safety for children and to provide clarity for everyone concerned. While the public, in the main, heeded the warnings to stay away from water, footage emerged online of people taking unnecessary risks by venturing close to coasts and cliffs and even entering the sea. Both the Irish Coast Guard and Rosslare Harbour-based RNLI were called out yesterday morning to assist a stricken 10m yacht, with the eight-strong lifeboat crew reporting wind speed in excess of 70 knots hampering their efforts. Despite this the yacht was brought safely ashore. In Louth, a lifeboat from the Clogherhead RNLI was launched to come to the aid of a group of windsurfers north of Dundalk Bay. A Rescue 116 helicopter was also launched, but it became apparent that the windsurfers were not in difficulty, and that the call for aid had come from concerned members of the public on shore. The rescue services were stood down. They werent in trouble, it was just well-informed members of the public that raised the alarm, said Gerard OFlynn, operations manager with the Irish Coast Guard. It turned out that those people werent in difficulty, but they went out of sight from the shore. Members of the public became concerned so it was felt a response was warranted. There were many reports of trees felled by the high winds across Waterford and the south-east. Dozens of buildings suffered roof damage. The roof of Lidl on Davis Rd, Clonmel, was blown off, as was the roof of the Curtains & Blinds shop on Clonmels OConnell St. There was damage done to the roof of Clerihan National School, between Clonmel and Cashel, while the roofs were blown off seven buildings on Brown St, Portlaw, Co Waterford. Hundreds of homes were without power because of outages in Kilkenny and Tipperary. In Clare, residents at the seaside resort of Lahinch, that was so badly hit in the 2014 storms, breathed a collected sigh of relief as the peak of Storm Ophelia passed without causing any major damage to the resort. Michael Vaughan, owner of the four-star Vaughans Lodge Hotel, said: There were quite a number of press photographers here looking for the dramatic shots and they have now gone away without any of the shots they were looking for, which is good news for us here. Villagers were braced for high tide before 4pm and Mr Vaughan said that the worst has passed and I would say that the storm didnt even cause any minor damage in the village. Conditions were favourable. The sea wasnt as high. Since the 2014 storms, Clare County Council has installed new coastal protection works facing onto the prom. Meanwhile, the Road Safety Authority has warned motorists that driving conditions may still be hazardous in parts today, even in the aftermath of the storm. Many roads around the country will be blocked and treacherous with downed trees, branches and pylons, said the RSA. Council workers and emergency services will be out clearing these routes and people need to anticipate encountering these scenarios when using the roads. It said coastal routes may still be flooded in parts, and that pedestrians and cyclists should be aware of potential hazards. The severe winds may have loosened roof tiles and other objects from buildings and these may still pose a potential risk. Be aware of whats happening above you and stay clear from the edges of buildings. Leaves on footpaths and the roadsides will make for slippery conditions. Workplaces across Ireland closed their doors yesterday, deciding it wasnt worth the risk of trying to trade in the midst of the worst storm to hit the country in decades. Mandate Trade Union had written to all the major retail employers calling on management to confirm their stores closures before 1pm yesterday. Chains such as Dunnes Stores, SuperValu, Marks & Spencer, Aldi, and Lidl, were closed from early on in order to keep staff and customers safe. Debenhams, Penneys, Heatons, Arnotts, Brown Thomas, and Shaws were some of the clothes retailers that shut their doors. Electrical goods and homeware stores such as Ikea and Harvey Norman also closed. Eason and Dubray bookstores shut their doors as did hairdressing chain Peter Marks. Tesco also announced its stores closures at about 2pm following a statement from Mandate condemning the retailer for not taking the action earlier. Bank of Ireland, AIB, Ulster Bank, and Permanent TSB also closed. As the world struggles to rein in emissions of climate-changing gases and limit planetary warming, a new technological silver bullet is gaining supporters. Geoengineering the large-scale manipulation of the Earths natural systems has been popularised as a means of counteracting the negative effects of climate change. Proponents of this science feed the illusion that there is a way to engineer an exit from the climate crisis, meet the goals of the 2015 Paris climate agreement, and maintain a consumption-heavy lifestyle. But this solution is not as simple as proponents would have us believe. Betting on climate engineering either as a planetary insurance policy or as a last-ditch measure to combat rising temperatures is not only risky; it also directs attention away from the only solution we know will work: reducing carbon emissions. Each of the engineered technologies being discussed carries dangers and uncertainties. For example, the only way to test the effectiveness of solar radiation management (SRM) on a global scale would be to carry out experiments in the environment either by spraying particles into the stratosphere, or by artificially modifying clouds. While such tests would be designed to determine whether SRM could reflect enough sunlight to cool the planet, experimentation itself could cause irreversible damage. Current models predict that SRM deployment would alter global precipitation patterns, damage the ozone layer, and undermine the livelihoods of millions of people. Beyond the ecological risks, critics warn that, once deployed globally, SRM could spawn powerful weapons, giving states, corporations, or individuals the ability to manipulate climate for strategic gain (an idea that not even Hollywood can resist). But perhaps the most important criticism is a political one: In a world of challenged multilateralism, how would global ecological interventions be governed? Similar questions surround the other major group of climate engineering technologies under debate so-called carbon dioxide removal (CDR). Proponents of these technologies propose removing CO2 from the atmosphere and storing it underground or in the oceans. Some CDR approaches are already prohibited, owing to concerns about possible environmental consequences. For example, fertilization of oceans with carbon-sequestering plankton was banned by the London Protocol on marine pollution in 2008. Parties to that decision worried about the potential damage to marine life. But other CDR approaches are gaining support. One of the most discussed ideas aims to integrate biomass with carbon capture and storage (CCS) techniques. Called bioenergy with CCS, or BECCS, this method seeks to pair the CO2-absorption capabilities of fast-growing plants with underground CO2 storage methods. Proponents argue that BECCS would actually yield negative emissions. Yet, as with other engineered solutions, the promises are simply too good to be true. For example, huge amounts of energy, water, and fertilizer would be required to operate BECCS systems successfully. The effects on land use would likely lead to terrestrial species losses, and increase land competition and displacement of local populations. Some forecasts even suggest that the land clearing and construction activities associated with these projects could lead to a net increase in greenhouse gas emissions, at least in the short term. Then there is the issue of scale. In order for BECCS to achieve emissions limits set by the Paris agreement, between 430m and 580m hectares (1.1bn to 1.4bn acres) of land would be needed to grow the required vegetation. That is a staggering one third of the worlds arable land. Simply put, there are safer and proven ways to withdraw CO2 from the atmosphere. Rather than creating artificial CO2-binding farms, governments should focus on protecting already-existing natural ecosystems and allowing degraded ones to recover. Rainforests, oceans, and peatlands (such as bogs) have immense CO2 storage capacities and do not require untested technological manipulation. By pushing unproven technologies as a cure for all climate-changing ills, proponents are suggesting that the world faces an unavoidable choice: geoengineering or disaster. But this is disingenuous. Political preferences, not scientific or ecological necessity, explain the appeal of geoengineering. Unfortunately, current debates about climate engineering are undemocratic and dominated by technocratic worldviews, natural science and engineering perspectives, and vested interests in the fossil-fuel industries. Developing countries, indigenous peoples, and local communities must be given a prominent voice, so that all risks can be fully considered before any geoengineering technology is tested or implemented. So what conversation should we be having about geoengineering? For starters, we need to rethink the existing governance landscape. In 2010, parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) agreed to a de facto international moratorium on climate-related geoengineering. But today, with powerful advocates generating so much pressure to bring geoengineering technologies out of the lab, informal bans are no longer sufficient. The world urgently needs an honest debate on the research, deployment, and governance of these technologies; the CBD and the London Protocol are essential starting points for these governance discussions. Among the technologies that require the most scrutiny are CDR projects that threaten indigenous lands, food security, and water availability. Such large-scale technological schemes must be regulated diligently, to ensure that climate-change solutions do not adversely affect sustainable development or human rights. In addition, the outdoor testing and deployment of SRM technologies, because of their potential to weaken human rights, democracy, and international peace, should be banned outright. This ban should be overseen by a robust and accountable multilateral global governance mechanism. No silver bullet for climate change has yet been found. And while geoengineering technologies remain mostly aspirational, there are proven mitigation options that can and should be implemented vigorously. These include scaling up renewable energy, phasing out fossil fuels (including an early retirement of existing fossil infrastructure), wider diffusion of sustainable agroecological agriculture, and increased energy and resource input into our economy. We cannot afford to gamble with the future of our planet. If we engage in a serious discussion about ecologically sustainable and socially just measures to protect the Earths climate, there will be no need to roll the dice on geoengineering. Barbara Unmuig is President of the Heinrich Boll Foundation. Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2017. Get unlimited access to all content and features at ivpressonline.com with our Full Online Access Subscription. Read our E-Edition, the digital replica of the print newspaper online, access content in exclusive sections including Family, Teen, Business, Databases, Farm and more. This option does not include daily home delivery of the Imperial Valley Press newspaper. For home delivery service, please select Premium or Premium Plus. A South Carolina economic official, Mark Owens, will be the next president and chief executive of the Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce. Owens, 32, will replace Gayle Anderson, 67, who is retiring after 21 years as head of the local chamber. Owens is projected to assume his new duties in early December. He has served in a similar role in Greer, S.C., since 2014. Greer is located between Greenville and Spartanburg, S.C. Owens said in a statement that his family is especially struck by (Winston-Salems) vibrancy, creativity and rich history of growing and developing homegrown businesses into national brands. I look forward to joining you and helping cultivate the entrepreneurial spirit of the community as it scripts its next chapter, he said. Owens was the unanimous choice of the chambers search committee. Anderson said in March when she announced her retirement that she didnt want a formal say in the selection of her successor. Im excited to be turning over the leadership of the chamber to someone with Marks experience, Anderson said. He is well-regarded by his peers in South Carolina. He leads the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, which covers North and South Carolina, so he already has many chamber contacts in this state, which will serve him well. More than 230 candidates were considered for the post, the chamber said. The search committee narrowed the field to 12 finalists and interviewed five of those before narrowing the choice to Owens and one other person. The 12 finalists included members from other chambers, as well as local and other non-chamber candidates. Peggy Carter, who led the search committee with Alan Proctor, said that while Owens represented a changing of the guard in a way, we felt we selected the best of the best. Marks enthusiasm and energy was so compelling, Carter said. Owens joined the Greer chamber in 2008 as director of business development. He was named vice president in 2012 and top executive in 2014. The largest employers in Greer are BMW, Michelin and Mitsubishi Polyester Film. As a strong and innovative leader, Mark surpassed the list of expectations outlined in the position description and the recently updated chamber strategic plan, which drove our search, Proctor said. Carter said Owens brings strong skill sets and great energy to our community. He is a collaborator who understands and embraces strong partnerships to drive community goals, she said. He sees great opportunity for Winston-Salem and is excited about joining our community leadership team, and we are excited to welcome him. Owens has earned the national chamber associations certified chamber executive designation. His success with the GreerMade certification program to boost pride around locally produced products complements our Keep It Local initiative, Anderson said. His commitment to working with all businesses means the chambers focus on supporting small- and midsized businesses will continue. Anderson joined the local chamber as executive vice president in 1989, having previously worked in community and governmental relations with R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve our local business community for nearly three decades, Anderson said in March. Its time for new energy and new blood and new ideas in the organization. Time for the next generation to move the community forward. Anderson is perhaps best known for her involvement with raising the profile of small-business leaders and helping lead efforts to embrace biotechnology and life sciences as the community lost traditional furniture, textiles and tobacco manufacturing jobs. Among her top accomplishments, Anderson said, were assisting with the emergence of Wake Forest Innovation Quarter in downtown Winston-Salem, lobbying legislators to secure state money for the Northern Beltway, forming the nations first technology council, and forming the nations first business involvement and volunteer program between a chamber and a public school system. The culmination of last years event of the 25-year biotechnology in Winston-Salem celebration was the last piece for me, Anderson said. To bring everyone back closed the loop for me and proved once again the community is moving in an exciting economic direction. Today Periods of rain. High near 40F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch. Tonight Overcast. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 36F. Winds light and variable. Tomorrow Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 53F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. 10/17/2017 October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and JSUs Phi Mu sorority and Delta Chi fraternity are getting involved by giving back. They've gathered toiletry items and made welcome baskets for 2nd Chance, a shelter that serves victims of domestic and sexual violence in Northeast Alabama. The students made 20 welcome baskets, which will be provided to new shelter guests. Founded in 1988, 2nd Chance is a non-profit that provides shelter and support to victims in Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, Etowah, Randolph and Talladega Counties. Services include emergency shelter, transitional housing, assistance with permanent housing, court and legal advocacy, counseling, lethality assessment, community referrals, thrift store vouchers, training and presentations on the dynamics of domestic and sexual violence, dating violence and abuse in later life. Domestic violence is defined by the US Department of Justice as "a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner." Domestic violence can be "physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone." If you are a victim of domestic violence and are in immediate danger, call 911. Campus police is also able to assist at 256-782-5050. If need someone to talk to on campus, contact JSU Counseling Services at 256-782-5475. You may also call the National Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or chat online 24/7. Students in Delta Chi and Phi Mu gathered supplies for 2nd Chance. Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey [official website] filed an amicus curiae brief [text, PDF] Monday in support of a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trumps directive [text] to reinstate a ban on transgender individuals openly serving in the military. Joining Massachusetts in the brief are California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and the District of Columbia. Calling the ban unconstitutional, unjustified and discriminatory and noting that the states share a strong interest in the readiness and effectiveness of our national defense, including an interest in ensuring that our Armed Forces and related institutions recruit, train, retain, and promote qualified service members, the brief argues that: States have enacted and enforce explicit civil rights protections for transgender people in areas such as employment, housing, health care, education, and public accommodations. We also command National Guard units, support Reserve Officer Training Corps programs, and run maritime academies that embrace principles of nondiscrimination and equality. Our collective experience demonstrates that the full inclusion of transgender people strengthens our communities, our state and federal institutions, and our nation as a whole. Discriminatory prohibitions on participation in civic life, on the other hand, impose significant harms on the Amici States and our residents. The Amici States therefore have a strong interest in ensuring that our Armed Forces move forward, not backward, and continue to allow transgender people to serve openly in all branches. The military has already concluded that allowing transgender individuals to serve openly is in the nations best interest. Trump issued [JURIST report] a memorandum directing the Secretaries of the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security [official websites] to reinstate the ban in August, after he announced the reversal in policy in a series of tweets the previous month. The ban against transgender individuals serving in the military is a longstanding policy that had been operative through most of former president Barrack Obamas presidency until his administration lifted [JURIST report] it in 2015. This suit was brought by five unnamed individuals alleging that re-imposition of the ban would violate the Due Process and Equal Protection clauses of the Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution. The suit seeks a preliminary injunction against implementation of the ban and this brief has been filed in support of the same. According to the brief, approximately 150,000 veterans, service members and National Guard members currently identify as transgender, and transgender individuals volunteer to serve at twice the rate of the US adult population. The US Supreme Court [official website] on Monday denied certiorari [order list, PDF] in a case involving the 2000 Cole attack, leaving intact the decision [text, PDF] of the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit [official website] that the military trial of Abd al Rahim al-Nashiri may proceed. Al-Nashiri made his first court appearance [JURIST report] in November 2011 after he was captured in Dubai in 2002. Nashiri is charged with war crimes relating to the bombing of the USS Cole, the bombing of the MV Limburg in 2002 and a failed plot to attack an American warship named The Sullivans in 2000. al-Nashiri has alleged that he faced multiple forms of torture during interrogation after capture. Last year, the DC Circuit refused to halt [JURIST report] al-Nashiris trial after he challenged the authority of a military commission in Guantanamo Bay hearing his case, stating that al-Nashiris challenge would have to wait until after his trial. Al-nashiri had expressed fear that he may not receive a fair hearing from a military court. However, the DC Circuit rejected that claim as unsubstantiated and stated that the military commission is more than capable of determining whether al-Nashiri was captured outside the context of hostilities. This request for Supreme Court review followed. In March, US Air Force Colonel Vance Spath, the judge presiding over the USS Cole bombing case, announced plans [JURIST report] to set a 2018 trial date for the case anticipating that it will take months to seat a jury. As of now, the trial date has still not been scheduled [NYT report]. Photos Credit: Shutterstock The Emperor Cruises fleet is designed to be a sanctuary that ensures every moment aboard is special. And their latest debut, the ultra-luxe cruising experience in Bai Tu Long Bay, will be no exception. The overnight, artful cruises accommodate 16-24 people in eight, en-suite cabins for one or two-night cruises and private charters options. All eight cabins are equipped with private balconies, panoramic ocean views and a full butler service. On the upper deck, the King and Queen Suites cover 757 square feet and are among Emperor Cruises Halongs largest rooms. The room is ideal for travelers seeking to enjoy charming accommodation, beautiful sightseeing, and majestic sunsets and sunrises. For guests staying in the King and Queen Suites, it's all inclusive and all luxury. Expect exclusive royal butler service from beginning to the end. Upon arrival to the Emperor Cruises harbor, go straight from the limo to the King or Queen Suites via an exclusive tender shuttle for private check-in in the magnificent suite. Guests cruise artfully on a completely bespoke journey accompanied by their butler. Once in your room, take in the royal fragrance of agarwood and a bottle of chilled champagne as you are welcomed into the largest and sexiest suites in Bai Tu Long Bay, Vietnam. For those looking for something more relaxing, enjoy an exclusive four-hand Royal massage for one hour in the Heritage Spa or a foot massage in-suite. This service can be requested at any time, around the clock. Enjoy music at your leisure with an exclusive, old-fashioned gramophone recorder or iPod music player provided in-suite. A private cocktail demonstration by Martini the King of cocktails, Emperor Cruisess talented bartender, is demonstrated at the private bar. In the suite, guests will receive the recipe of this signature cocktail. Another exclusive part of the royal glamor experience is to enjoy scented lotus tea in the morning or a relaxing afternoon tea ceremony, and cakes delivered to your suite. Sip some after-dinner drinks on Hoang Sa Paracel Island in the evening, explore the island or partake in some squid fishing. This small and comfortable tender boat at Paracel Island is both state-of-the-art and unique in Bai Tu Long Bay. An exclusive reservation at the best tables with uninterrupted ocean views at Can Chanh and/or Panorama with their names on the table comes standard for the King and Queen Suites. Emperor Cruises cruising concept means passengers can also opt for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in your suite. Exclusive food and drink menus are specially designed for you, as well as a visit to the cruise ships wine cellar to choose a preferred wine for dinner with Emperor Crusies appointed sommelier. Besides the a la carte menu for dinner, guests can choose a special fine dining menu by the bay which has been designed exclusively by the internationally renowned Iron Chef, David Thai. This dinner is, of course, available for King and Queen Suite guests only. A late check out up to 11 a.m. means that travelers can stay in their suite until disembarkation, and their butler will care for everything. If they wish, they will receive a cruising certificate to mark their experience aboard the best of the best in the largest and most charming suite on the most luxurious cruise in Halong Bay, Vietnam. Cruise on a smaller boat with traditional sails, ultra-personalized service and outstanding facilities on an all-inclusive basis; there are no additional charges at the end of the cruise. Halong Bay is one of the New Wonders of the World and tourists flock to sail its karst-dotted waters. The boats are available for FITs, GITS, and charters. This authentic experience is ideal for new or repeat travelers to Bai Tu Long Bay and Ha Long Bay, who seek something different, unique, exotic and out of the ordinary. Inspired by the lavish lifestyle of Emperor Bao Dai, the last Emperor of Vietnam, this masterpiece is designed to reflect the style of the 1930s. It is a place for the most sophisticated travelers to enjoy Vietnamese culture, history and gourmet cuisine. Each guest is treated to an emperor's experience in idyllic privacy, with every detail attended to. All suites are named after the most beautiful villas and palaces of the late Emperor Bao Dai. BROKEN BOW A battle to recall a Broken Bow School Board member is going to court. A petition was filed in Custer County District Court earlier this month against the Broken Bow School District. Filing the claim were Broken Bow residents Diane and Jerry Scott, Sandra and Gary Wright, and Julie Foster. The petition claims that the school board did not fulfill its duties by setting a recall election date for board Chairman Carl French. A hearing to show cause and motion to intervene is scheduled for 9 a.m. Wednesday in Custer County District Court. According to court records, the original petitioner, Drew Schendt of Broken Bow, turned in 550 signatures to recall French to the Custer County Clerks Office for verification on Aug. 18. The clerk determined the petition contained 514 valid signatures and notified French and Broken Bow Public Schools on Aug. 29. The original affidavits to recall French and board member and Treasuer J.B. Atkins were filed June 26. At a special board meeting on Sept. 18, a motion to set a recall election date for French failed on a vote of three-three. French, who was one of the three members to vote against setting his recall election date, said the filing was made three days too late. According to state statute 32-1309, a recall petition may not be filed within six months after the beginning of the officials term or six months before the incumbent filing deadline for the office. French is in his first term on the school board. He said he intends to file for re-election. The deadline date to file is Feb. 15, three days within the recall petition filing deadline. Last week, French filed a motion with district court that said, in part, The recall petitions circulated in this matter seek to deprive French of the remainder of his current term of service, the motion says. A recall election date for Atkins was set for Nov. 14. Enough valid signatures were obtained and also turned in on Aug. 18. Atkins started his first term this year, and said the recall petition filing was six months after he started his term. @erikadpritchrd ALMA An alleged argument over stolen cigarettes has resulted in four-seven years prison time for a former Alma man. Earlier this month, Austin Lozo, 27, now of Fremont, was sentenced in Harlan County District Court to prison on a Class IIA felony second-degree assault charge. Lozo had pleaded no contest to the charge in August. A person making a no-contest plea neither admits nor denies guilt, but the plea is treated the same as a guilty plea. The court ruled Lozo isnt fit for probation based on his criminal history, his pre-sentence investigation test scores and the serious and dangerous nature of the offense, court records say. Lozo will receive 162 days credit for time already served. He was also ordered to pay $180 in court costs within six months of his release, and he is to pay $789 in restitution to the victim at the rate of $50 per month upon his release. According to court records, Lozo was originally charged with use of a firearm to commit a felony, a Class IC felony; attempted felony, a Class II felony; and terroristic threats, a Class IIIA felony. In a plea deal, the first charge was amended to second-degree assault, a Class IIA felony; and the second and third charges were dropped. The charges stem from a March 2 argument with another Alma man. According to court records, Lozo pulled a gun on the victim outside the victims home on March 2. Earlier in the day, Lozo allegedly had accused the victim of stealing his cigarettes, court records say, and the two men argued about it over the internet before Lozo went to the victims house to confront him about it. Court records say Lozo reportedly grabbed the victim from behind with an arm around his neck and put a gun to his head. Lozo allegedly said, This is going to be your last day, court records say. The victim is alleged to have fought back and heard a gun fire, court records say. Lozo allegedly fell to the ground and held his arm to his chest saying he was shot, court records say. The victim reportedly escaped inside his home, while Lozo allegedly fled. When Lozo was taken into custody, court records say, photos were taken of his left hand, which indicated a small injury. @erikadpritchard LINCOLN Joshua Keadle, who had long been the prime suspect in the 2010 disappearance of a Peru State College student, was charged Tuesday with first-degree murder. The body of Tyler Thomas, 19, was never found, and Keadle, a fellow student, maintained that he dropped her off at a remote boat launch on the Missouri River the night of Dec. 3. The charges filed Tuesday against Keadle, 36, were a testament to the perseverance of the Thomas family, said Vince Powers, a Lincoln attorney who successfully won a $2.6 billion wrongful death lawsuit against Keadle over Tyler Thomas disappearance. They never gave up, Powers said Their concern was to keep the memory of their daughter alive so this day would come. Thomas mother, LaTanya Thomas of Omaha, was nearly speechless when contacted by a reporter on Tuesday afternoon. After the years go by you start to wonder if its going to happen will he be charged, is there enough (evidence) to do it? she said in a telephone interview. I just wanted justice for her. I couldnt stop, she said. More than a year ago, the familys attorney, Powers, had met with Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson about the case. Peterson, who took office in 2015, pledged to look into the case. Keadle is in prison serving a sentence for raping a 15-year-old girl while he was a student at Midland College in Fremont. He was scheduled to be eligible for parole from prison in 14 months. Tyler Thomas, an Omaha native and captain of the Peru State dance team, had been reported missing by two students after she failed to return to her dormitory on Dec. 3, 2010. Extensive searches by family members, volunteers, law enforcement and trained dog handlers in the following days were not successful. In 2012, Keadle was sentenced to 15 to 20 years in prison for first-degree sexual assault of a 15-year-old girl in Fremont in 2008. In 2016, a six-woman jury in Nemaha County returned the $2.6 billion wrongful death verdict against Keadle and Peru State. Later, the Nebraska Supreme Court removed the college from liability, leaving Keadle, alone, responsible. Powers said he felt the evidence he presented in the civil lawsuit would have been enough to attain a guilty verdict in a criminal prosecution, but that the Attorney Generals Office wanted to be even more sure. The Lincoln defense attorney said he had promised the Thomas family that, if charges were not brought against Keadle, he would launch a petition drive to impanel a grand jury in Nemaha County to hear evidence in the slaying. The Attorney Generals Office will prosecute the case, which was the product of investigations by the Nebraska State Patrol and Nemaha County Sheriffs Office. I am proud to wholeheartedly support Sen. Bob Krist of Omaha in his campaign for governor of Nebraska. As a young Nebraskan whos watched Krist in the Unicameral for the past few sessions, he never struck me as the kind of cautious politician youd typically see planning to run for higher office. Hes honest for one, and votes sensibly. He isnt afraid to work out solutions and sometimes yell at his colleagues in the public of the Unicamerals floor. Krist consistently upholds his values as a pragmatic and fair conservative. All of this is a far cry from many of his Republican colleagues who seem more interested in falling in line with the party establishment than worrying about pesky ideas like consistency or values. And its hard to blame them with Nebraskas billionaire governor, Pete Ricketts, pouring money into legislative campaigns to run against Republicans he views as disloyal to his partisan agenda. Krist responded by leaving the Republican Party, becoming an independent and running for governor himself. That takes some guts. Electing Krist would send a clear message that Nebraskans want results, not the same old Republican vs. Democrat squabbles. Property tax needs to be addressed, our prison system is broken, and unfortunately partisanship has weakened the independence of our nonpartisan Unicameral. I strongly believe Krist is the kind of positive change Nebraska needs to help come together and tackle these issues head on. Nathan Leach, Kearney In recent weeks, failed presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has been making excuses for her loss and taking shots at the White House. Clinton told CNN the presidents rhetoric is a cry from the white nationalist gut because, Clinton, in an interview with NPRs Rachel Martin, blamed sexism for her defeat, despite the fact married women overwhelmingly voted for Trump. Clinton even found time to scapegoat former FBI Director James Comey for re-opening the investigation into her shady email practices as secretary of state. What many Americans cant understand is how Clinton faces no legal repercussions for her email fiasco. Our most powerful law enforcement institutions should be committed to enforcing the law, not protecting well-connected political figures. Clintons media tour is a distraction from a real issue for voters: The adequacy and fairness of the FBIs investigation and former Attorney General Loretta Lynchs refusal to prosecute her. There certainly seemed to be cause for prosecution. Not only did Clinton maintain a private, non-secure email server used to transmit classified and other highly sensitive information jeopardizing our national security but she wiped 33,000 emails from the server after questions arose. Where theres smoke theres fire and unfinished business. Ted Harvey is chairman of the Committee to Defend the President. He wrote this for InsideSources.com. In response to the column by Nebraska Public Power District CEO Pat Pope I would suggest that he and NPPD are not necessarily the good guys in the rose-colored picture he painted in his column about the benefits of public power. Historically public power has been good for Nebraska and its early electrification, but NPPD is now a bloated government subsidiary with minimal state oversight. He indirectly compared himself to U.S. Sen. George Norris stating, I do share some of his perspective and vision about projects that benefit the state. One such project is the R-Project slated to pass for 224 miles through the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills. This is a $360 million industrial 345 kilovolt transmission line. Since 2009, NPPD has been in the 14-state Southwest Power Pool consortium of public and for-profit utilities. Their documents from 2012 show The Gentleman-Cherry Co.-Holt Co. 345 kV line in Nebraska has been proposed chiefly to provide access for wind development in Cherry Co. ... The Sandhills are one of the worlds largest contiguous grasslands and the largest stabilized sand dune region. They are 11-percent groundwater derived wetlands. They provide crucial habitat to migratory birds. The Sandhills remain pristine and unaltered. They are unique and truly Nebraskas finest natural resource. Most residents of the Sandhills, as well as many throughout the state and from other states feel this very fragile, pristine ecoregion is entirely unsuitable for such an industrial project and that future wind energy development will exponentially compound the damage. This view is shared by environmental groups such as the Sierra Club that support wind energy development in developed corridors, but not in pristine, environmentally sensitive areas. The University of Nebraska Center for Great Plains Studies has said that NPPD proposes to intrude a destructive and highly-impactful powerline through a nearly pristine area of great environmental importance and fragility. Convenient and acceptable alternative routes for the line exist. Only an agency driven by environmental ignorance and arrogance would propose such a destructive intrusion. Easements for 630 parcels are being obtained using eminent domain or the threat of eminent domain, stripping landowners of their property rights. NPPDs right-of-way contractors use NPPD business cards and stationery and drive NPPD vehicles. NPPD has said that Nebraska and the SWPP currently have surplus generation capacity. Wind energy will add to the surplus. I do not think the legislative intent of giving eminent domain to public utilities anticipated that these utilities would produce energy in excess of the states needs and that this excess would be pooled and marketed by public and for-profit utilities in other states. Pope said, We dont do it for money, because public power is not-for-profit, yet he is the highest paid state official with a salary in excess of $700,000. He also said, We dont do it for fame because even in doing the right things, someone will tell us its wrong. Mr. Pope, you may become famous for doing the wrong thing. When you are wrong you need to be told. A multitude of people are telling you that you are now doing the wrong thing. If NPPDs promise is truly to enhance the quality of life in Nebraska, now and in the future, you need to listen to the public that you are supposed to serve. Brent Steffen is a retired vascular surgeon from Kearney and landowner and cattle producer near Thedford in Thomas County in the Sandhills. KEARNEY Community leaders attempted to set a course Monday evening to address Kearneys housing shortage. If we dont grow, we die. The forecast is for growth, but we want to do it right, said Tami Moore, a professor in the University of Nebraska at Kearneys College of Business and Technology, which organized the meeting. About 60 people participated. Among the group were builders, lenders, realtors, educators, employers and elected leaders. The purpose of the meeting was to continue the momentum of a six-month housing study commissioned by the Kearney Planning Commission. The study determined that residents of Kearney want smaller, more affordable homes and have an appetite for greater housing variety. The study tapped the opinions of more than 1,600 people in Kearney and the immediate area. The city has appointed an ad hoc housing committee. During Mondays meeting, leaders attempted to share their ideas to help steer the committees efforts. After about 45 minutes of roundtable discussions, each of the smaller committees shared the ideas that emerged at their tables. Participants then voted by placing stickers on pages from a flip chart with the top 13 ideas. Among strategies garnering the most votes were: - Developing a system so builders, lenders and realtors can share the risk of new housing construction; - Drafting a marketing campaign to attract trained trades professionals to Kearney; - Using tax-increment financing to launch new neighborhoods; - Making and inventory of vacant lots and studying why housing hasnt been built on them; - Promoting alternative designs, such as two-story homes, condominiums and other designs that reduce building and lot costs; and, - Collaboration among high schools, Central Community College and UNK to attract more youths into construction trades. The goal of Mondays meeting, Moore said, was to develop 10-12 ideas that can help Kearney succeed in expanding its housing selection. Among other ideas discussed were renovating rundown homes, relaxing zoning regulations to allow more affordable construction, building a trust fund to help first-time buyers, teaching high schoolers about financial literacy, offering scholarships and internships to new trades employees, encouraging residents to move up so new buyers can purchase their homes as starters, and employer-based housing incentives. Some also suggested that pay scales in Kearney are too low, and if earnings were higher, more people could afford to own homes. According to the housing study, construction has kept pace with demand for large, high-end houses, while less attention has been paid to the market for units priced between $175,000 and $250,000. Respondents said achieving affordability might mean pursuing more modest options such as small- and mid-size single-family homes and townhomes and duplexes. Respondents also believe Kearney needs more affordable, higher-quality rental units and greater variety. Because Kearney is a university town, the study compared the situation here with similar cities Cedar Falls, Iowa; Maryville, Mo; and Hays and Emporia, Kan. and discovered Kearneys costs are about equal with those communities costs. The study also compared Kearney with Grand Island, Hastings and North Platte and learned homes in Kearney are generally newer. The median build year in Kearney is 1978; Grand Island, 1969; North Platte, 1967; and, Hastings, 1965. The study estimates Kearneys population will increase by 7,000 residents to about 40,000 by 2030, and that 200 housing units per year must be built to keep pace. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form FILE - In this Friday, Jan. 17, 2014, file photo, a person displays Netflix on a tablet in North Andover, Mass. Netflix is taking on increasing amounts of debt in order to fund its $6 billion annual commitment to original programming. Investors so far aren't fazed by the spending given continued growth in subscribers, but some analysts warn that the company could be on the verge of overextending itself. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola, File) 417 Shares Share Jag ska bli doktor, a four-year-old boy announced to his family sixty years ago. Somehow, everything he did after that moment seemed to move him in that direction, even when, on the surface, his path through life seemed to be meandering. As a student, he was just as interested in literature and philosophy as he was in scientific subjects. He even failed his first quiz in organic chemistry just after receiving the Berzelius scholarship for achievements in inorganic chemistry. As a boy scout, he learned to find his way with or without map and compass, mastered the building of lean-tos and rope bridges, and came to travel the world, even following Baden Powells steps in the Swiss Alps. He edited the troop newsletter and, years later, he became a troop leader. He spent a summer with a rural pastor, helped decorate his small church for midnight masses, read scripture in the dark, played guitar from behind the altar, and watched the aging man of the cloth look up to the sky in tears and ask God for stronger faith and divine help in managing his own shortcomings and weaknesses. He spent a year as an exchange student in Massachusetts, and although he was homesick for Sweden at first, he left the U.S. just as homesick for it as he had been for his native country when he first arrived. He marched, stopped and turned in musty uniforms and sore army boots to the relentless commands of his drill sergeant and crawled in the mud under low-slung barbed wire. He conquered his fears and held on to the rope that pulled thirty soldiers on bicycles behind a military vehicle down Swedish gravel roads. He worked as a substitute teacher with wide-eyed, eagerly listening fifth graders and bored-to-death teenagers. And at age 21 he entered the only medical school he thought of applying to; he just knew he wanted to go to Uppsala University. Only after the application deadline did it occur to him that perhaps he could have put down the Karolinska Institute as a backup plan. As a medical student, he didnt party, and he didnt study all that much. He took tidy notes with a fountain pen and spent much of his time on his second-hand couch, listening to James Taylor, Simon and Garfunkel and cassette tapes of American FM radio he recorded on visits to the place he was longing for. Today, he has lived much longer in America than in Sweden. He is part teacher, part pastor, part boy scout and still a student of literature and philosophy. He finds solace and inspiration in writing about his personal journey and that of the patients who put their lives in his hands. And he is starting to feel a little bit like the doctor he set out to be. A Country Doctor is a family physician who blogs at A Country Doctor Writes:. Image credit: Shutterstock.com 526 Shares Share It is not for me to judge another mans life. I must judge, I must choose, I must spurn, purely for myself. For myself, alone. -Hermann Hesse, Siddhartha What does it mean to die with dignity? As a neurosurgeon who faces life and death decisions routinely, I ponder this question often. When a terminally ill person decides to choose death over suffering, we perhaps recognize the ensuing act as a dignified death. But is there any less dignity in living out ones life destiny to the bitter end, no matter the suffering, using what precious time is left to better the world one leaves behind? These are always apt questions, but they are particularly timely as we approach the third anniversary of the death of Brittany Maynard of Anaheim, CA. Lets look at Brittanys decision in the face of death and the factors that shaped it, as well as another patient who decided to see his life to the end. Deciding to end ones own life must be carefully considered 11 percent of patients who make this choice change their minds.1 Therefore its worth pondering these two different, well thought out approaches to the final days. Brittanys choice Brittany suffered from debilitating headaches for months and learned she had brain cancer in 2014. She was 29 years old and had been married for a year. After two surgeries to halt the growth of the tumor in her brain, her doctors told Brittany it had become more aggressive. The physicians recommended full-brain radiation, which proved unsuccessful. Brittany then learned she had only six months to live. Her husband and she did extensive research to learn all her options, but they realized there was no treatment that would save her and they believed that available therapies would ruin her quality of life in the time left. It was her conclusion that she would continue to suffer terribly it was possible that even morphine would not lessen her pain. She didnt want to endure that, and she didnt want her family to witness it either. Brittany considered death with dignity an option for mentally competent, terminally ill patients who have less than six months to live. With that choice, she would get a prescription from a doctor for medication that would end her life if her suffering became unbearable. Brittany decided this was the best option for her and her loved ones. She and her husband moved to Oregon, at the time one of only five states in the U.S. where death with dignity was within the law. Surrounded by family and friends, Brittany took the medication and passed away on November 1, 2014. In the days leading up to her death, Brittany said, Having this choice at the end of my life has become incredibly important. It has given me a sense of peace during a tumultuous time that otherwise would be dominated by fear, uncertainty, and pain. As a result of Brittany sharing her story and establishing Brittanys Fund and the Compassion & Choices Foundation, more than half of the states in the U.S., including my home state of New Jersey and the District of Columbia, introduced aid-in-dying legislation in 2015. Pauls choice I greatly respect Brittanys choice. But there is another approach. Paul Kalanthi was a stellar neurosurgical resident at Stanford University, earning the American Association of Neurological Surgeons highest award for research. When he entered his sixth and final year of training, he began losing weight rapidly and had severe back pain. After going through a gauntlet of tests and evaluating his own symptoms he was a doctor, after all he was diagnosed with terminal stage IV lung cancer. Paul described his approach to facing suffering and death in When Breath Becomes Air, written as he was dying. Paul also endured excruciating pain from his disease and treatments. In his book, he writes about facing death: Time for me is now double-edged: every day brings me further from the low of my last relapse but closer to the next recurrence and, eventually, death. The most obvious response might be an impulse to frantic activity Part of the cruelty of cancer, though, is not only that it limits your time; it also limits your energy, vastly reducing the amount you can squeeze into a day. Paul concluded that he needed to continue his usual life. He returned to one of his passions, writing, determined to complete his book. He and his wife also had a child during this time. The epilogue to When Breath Becomes Air is written by Kalanithis wife, Lucy. Here is a part of it. During the last year of his life, Paul wrote relentlessly, fueled by purpose, motivated by a ticking clock. He started with midnight bursts when he was still a neurosurgery chief resident later, he spent afternoons in his recliner, drafted paragraphs in his oncologists waiting room When his fingertips developed painful fissures because of his chemotherapy, we found seamless, silver-lined gloves that allowed use of a trackpad and keyboard. He was determined to keep writing. He died in March 2015. I greatly respect Pauls choice as well. Reflections Its impossible to put yourself in a terminally ill patients shoes and truly understand their emotions and physical suffering. Brittany Maynard wanted her family and friends to remember her as she was: a smart, energetic woman who made friends easily and loved life. Her courageous choice to die with dignity turned out to be a spark for important aid-in-dying legislation across the United States. Neither Brittany nor Paul could control their impending deaths, yet they both controlled the manner of their death. In their respective choices, each found a way to reclaim power over their own lives. I truly hope, however, that if I find myself in the devastating situation of being diagnosed with a terminal illness, I have the mental, physical and emotional wherewithal to choose the same path as Paul Kalanithi. He accepted the fact that suffering is part of the human condition and believed that although its extremely difficult, its meaningful and we somehow need to endure it and embrace it. Brittany and Paul took divergent paths during their final months, yet both left an important legacy. Brittany championed legislation for aid in dying. Paul showed us how dying can be a catalyst for creation, through a child and the written word. Their lives and deaths remind us that the only right answer to the final question is that which comes from within each of us. Mark McLaughlin is a neurosurgeon. Image credit: Shutterstock.com 1K Shares Share Do you want your surgeon to work back-to-back overnight 12-hour shifts and then perform brain surgery on you the next morning? Theres currently no regulation prohibiting this kind of dangerous scheduling in medicine. Physicians are human. Like truck drivers or airline pilots, their fatigue can lead to dangerous consequences for those around them. A recent study showed that even mild sleep deprivation causes the same levels of impairment as alcohol intoxication. Truckers and pilots have to comply with regulations forcing them to rest, however, and physicians do not. Medicine has not only had a long history of avoiding regulations on shift hours, but of also actively encouraging burnout-inducing work schedules, especially during medical training: Long and unpredictable work hours have been a staple of medical training for centuries. In fact, the term resident is a relic of times when physicians in postgraduate training literally lived at the hospital. Though this system faded away several decades ago, as recently as 15 years ago, resident physicians routinely worked 90100 hours per week, for up to 36 consecutive hours without rest, for the entire duration of residency training. These grueling hours were viewed by many as a necessary rite of passage and were considered essential to ensure that physicians developed their clinical acumen and would be capable of independent practice once training was completed. Residency hours were capped at a mere 80 hours a week under 2003 and 2011 regulations from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. These controversial limits led to a small but measurable reduction in risk of death among patients. But the gains may be short-lived: There are widespread reports from the front lines of medical residency showing that limits are commonly violated and hours are encouraged to be underreported. A 2007 UCLA study found that 20 percent of residents said they had fallen asleep while driving because of work-related fatigue. During all this, ACGME is considering loosening rules to allow residents to work 28hour shifts. Long and unpredictable work hours dont stop during medical training. Todays average physician continues to work 59.6 hours a week. American doctors are in an epidemic of burnout, thanks to this systemic perception of rest as inefficient weakness. In America, it is far more dangerous to be a patient in a hospital than to fly 40,000 feet in the air in an aluminum tube at 500 miles per hour as an airline customer. In the last eight years, not one person has died in a crash of a U.S.-certified commercial airline operation anywhere in the world. According to a Johns Hopkins study, more than 250,000 Americans die from preventable medical errors every year. Taking physician fatigue seriously would not fix every fatal medical error, but it would surely lead to greater patient safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets strict limits for pilot rest. In 2011, the agency specified that no flight shift last longer than 89 hours; pilots received 10-hour mandatory rest periods and set weekly and 28-day limits on flight assignments. The FAA maintains an ongoing work group on Fatigue Risk Management and online fatigue risk assessment quizzes. Is it time for Health and Human Services to form a similar fatigue risk program? Is efficiency- and safety-leader Kaiser Permanente already testing fatigue science policies with their staff physicians? Would the American Medical Association take up this cause for its member physicians? Someone needs to stand up for sensible, safe physician shift schedules. Suvas Vajracharya is founder and CEO, Lightning Bolt Solutions. Image credit: Shutterstock.com Almost 13,000 residents and businesses in Kilkenny City will soon be able to avail of broadband three times faster than the best service available in Dublin (350 Mbps). The ESB and Vodafone joint venture SIRO says the Gigabit speeds will be as fast as Tokyo in Japan with the first customers connected in Kilkenny City by the end of this year. Reacting to SIROs 450 million investment to deliver a 100% fibre-optic broadband network to 50 large towns and 320 smaller towns, Mayor of Kilkenny City, Michael Doyle, said its great news. SIRO gave a presentation to members of Kilkenny City Municipal District last Friday with some councillors critical that the broadband will not be delivered to more rural areas of the county. Cllr David Kennedy said: To me, youre picking the handy ones. It all seems to be city based. Its a cop out. Ten or fifteen miles out the county people cant get any (broadband). Youve these companies coming in on State contracts and picking the easy one and forgetting about everyone outside the Ring Road. In her response to members, Aoife Ni Lochlainn of SIRO, said: We are targeting regional towns. We are not targeting rural areas. We are a commercial company. We cant make a case to go into rural areas. She says those parts of the country will fall under the Governments National Broadband Plan. Cllr Malcolm Noonan says one business which found it difficult to transfer files thought about leaving Kilkenny for Dublin. He says the roll-out of the plan is important for the economic viability of the Kilkenny. The future of Belview Port is rosy as when Brexit takes place, it will be the nearest port to the mainland of Europe with the Industrial Development Agency describing it as an attractive piece of infrastructure. Speaking a recent meeting of the Public Accounts Committee, Fianna Fail TD for Carlow/Kilkenny, Bobby Aylward, says with Brexit coming and so on, the future of Belview Port looks rosy. He said: We have land and Kilkenny County Council is on board. We have the services there, we have the roads, we are only an hour and a half from Dublin. We have the rail link and, when Brexit takes place, it will be the nearest port to the mainland of Europe. At the meeting, the IDAs chief executive Martin Shanahan, made a presentation to the committees members. Mr Shanahan said: In respect of Belview Port, my view is that it is an attractive piece of infrastructure." For more on the story, pick up this week's Kilkenny People. By Ruby Lian and Melanie Burton SHANGHAI/SYDNEY, Oct 17 (Reuters) - China may ban traders from importing scrap copper from the start of next year, a widely read industry website reported on Monday, as the world's top metals user deepens its crackdown on imports of foreign waste and cuts pollution from heavy industries. Chinese authorities have imposed tougher requirements on issuing receiver and import licences for scrap metal, making imports nearly impossible, Shanghai Metals Market reported, without saying where it got the information. Beijing has already announced a ban on imports of some scrap metal, including copper, from the end of 2018. Shanghai Futures Exchange copper prices hit their highest in 4-1/2 years on Tuesday, having jumped 3.2 pct on Monday. London Metal Exchange copper is at three-year highs above $7,100 a tonne, up around 28 percent year to date. "The new policy (would) require that users, receivers and importers are the same company, which means traders will be kicked out of the distribution process," said Xu Yongqi, an analyst with CITIC Futures in Shanghai. "The move will lead to tighter supplies of scrap copper, at least for a short while." China is the world's biggest user and producer of refined copper, accounting for about 45 percent of global demand, but must import any additional needs from mines or scrap merchants. A ban on scrap could mean that it must import more refined copper. China imported 3.3 million tonnes of scrap copper last year, slightly lower than 3.6 million tonnes of refined metal. (Reporting by Ruby Lian in SHANGHAI and Melanie Burton in SYDNEY; Editing by Kenneth Maxwell) (Kitco News) - As gold retreated below its key psychological level of $1,300 in after-hours trading Monday, one precious metals expert remained optimistic, saying that the metal could hit new all-time highs by 2020. By 20202022 we would see record high gold prices in terms of nominal annual average prices, the managing director of CPM Group Jeff Christian said in an interview with Macro Voices. For the annual average price to be $1,650 or $1,700, that means that you're going to have gold prices knocking on the door of $2,000. In the short-term, Christian said good things are in store for the yellow metal, with prices going as high as $1,360 an ounce. Over the next few months the price is probably going to move back up toward $1,340 to $1,360 into late November and December, Christian said. Then getting into 2018, depending on what happens in the global financial markets, we think that the gold price will probably continue to rise at perhaps a slightly faster rate than it has risen in the last couple of years. As Asian markets opened, spot gold on Kitco.com was last seen trading at $1,293.50, down 0.08% on the day. Christian is not as excited about silver, adding that his outlook for the white metal has a firm ceiling at around $19 over the next several months. We're looking for silver to move sideways, he said. "Silver is a financial asset, to some extent, like gold. But it's much more of an industrial metal and an industrial commodity . . . One of the things that you see is that investment demand really drives prices higher or lower, and investors are much more focused on gold right now, it seems, than they are on silver. In terms of future drivers for the metals, the search for a new Federal Reserve Chair should not have much of an impact, according to the expert. Concerns over who comes in at the Fed will ruffle the markets, and you'll see the usual little volatilities as people jockey, but that's largely meaningless to the bigger issue, which is that the Fed probably will continue to suffer from a diminution of respect on a global basis, Christian said. This distrust of what the Fed is doing to the U.S. economy could translate into higher gold prices, he explained. Part of our view of gold prices rising over the next five years is predicated on the view that there's going to be concerns about the future of monetary management in the United States and on a global basis. WASHINGTON, Oct 16 (Reuters) - U.S. officials expressed interest toward a bilateral free-trade agreement with Japan and narrowing the U.S. trade deficit in a bilateral economic dialogue held on Monday, a senior Japanese government official said. The two countries, who were holding the second round of such talks, decided to continue discussions on what trade framework would work best, the official said, suggesting that Japan did not consent to U.S. requests to open up talks on setting a two-way trade agreement. Japan and the United States did not discuss currency rates, the official told a briefing after the dialogue. (Reporting by Leika Kihara; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) KAMPALA, Oct 16 (Reuters) - The Ugandan shilling extended its losing streak on Monday, amid strong demand for hard currency by commercial banks covering short positions. At 0927 GMT commercial banks quoted the shilling at 3,645/3,655, weaker than Friday's close of 3,635/3,645. UGX Spot Rate..... Ugandan Shilling Money Guide.... Calculated Cross Rates.......... Deposits..................... Deposits & Forwards............. Uganda Equities Guide....... Uganda All Share Index........ Shilling background ..... Ugandan Debt Guide............ All Uganda Bonds............. Uganda T-Bills.............. Uganda Benchmark............. Central Bank ................ Ugandan Contributor Index.... Uganda Coffee Prices....... (Reporting by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by Maggie Fick) 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. (Kitco News) - Although gold prices waver around key resistance levels, one analyst says hes ignoring the noise and sees prices eventually moving higher. At this juncture, my best guess is that the current rebound in GLD will continue in the weeks ahead, noted Boris Mikanikrezai, precious and base metals strategist for FastMarkets, in his latest Gold Weekly report released Tuesday. In consequence, I maintain my long GLD position and try not to be distracted by the daily noise of the market. Gold prices were off to a good start this week but then fell under pressure as several factors favored a more risk-on attitude from investors. December Comex gold futures dropped 1.13% to last trade around $1,288.30 an ounce. Meanwhile, SPDR GLD the worlds largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund last stood at around $122.11, down 0.7% on the day. However, Mikanikrezai noted that the environment still seems to be favoring the yellow metal. He analyzed both speculative positioning on the Comex as well as ETF holdings to make his assessment. The deterioration in gold's spec positioning came in spite of a bullish macro backdrop for the precious metals complex, characterized by a weaker dollar and lower US real rates, he noted. I stick with my view that the macro environment for gold should remain positive in the remainder of the year, which should induce speculators to lift their net long positioning in gold (though already quite long). Likewise, Mikanikrezai pointed out that despite slow inflows into gold ETFs, total holdings stood at 2,125.28 tonnes as of last Friday. The slow pace of ETF inflows makes sense because the majority of investors is not worried about downside risks to risk assets. Indeed, macro investors seem to shrug off geopolitical tensions (e.g., North Korea) and rising political uncertainty in the USA (e.g., tax reform) and Europe (e.g., Brexit negotiations, Catalonia's independence) and prefer to focus more on positive macro dynamics, he explained. As a result, ETF investors did not buy aggressively gold to protect their portfolios, especially due to the absence of a clear negative impact in global risk sentiment. However, the London-based analyst said he is not too worried as he expects record valuations on stock markets to correct and volatility to make a comeback. I expect gold ETF buying to remain at a sustained level even though risk assets continue to appreciate. That said, I acknowledge that speculative activity in gold is likely to remain the main driver behind the fluctuations in gold prices because market players tend to leverage their positions to a greater extent than ETF investors, he said. Mikanikrezai said the key GLD levels he is watching right now are $128.32 on the upside and the $120 level as support. MADRID, Oct 17 (Reuters) - The Catalan government doesn't plan to give up on its secession cause and will give the same answer to the central government on Thursday as it did on Monday, the spokesman said on Tuesday. The comment comes just two days before the regional leader must respond to Madrid's calls to change his mind on whether or not he has declared independence. Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont failed to clarify his position on Monday after he made a symbolic declaration of independence Oct. 10 seconds before putting it on hold to call for talks with the Spanish government. He now has until Thursday to back down. "Giving in forms no part of this government's scenarios," Catalan government spokesman Jordi Turull said. "On Thursday, we won't give anything different than what we gave on Monday." (Reporting by Inmaculada Sanz; Writing by Paul Day; Editing by Jesus Aguado) FRANKFURT, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Deutsche Bank has asked banks to pitch for roles the planned 2 billion euro ($2.35 billion) initial public offering of its asset management business, two people close to the matter said on Tuesday. The requests for proposal for roles such as that of the global coordinator were sent out on Monday, the sources said. Banks are being asked to specify their concerns with the equity story of the asset management unit, their view on the peer group, valuation method, timing of the deal and potential investors. Deutsche Bank declined to comment. Deutsche Bank said in March that it planned to list the asset management unit, which could reach a total valuation of 8 billion euros. A stock market flotation of the unit is expected to take place in the first half of 2018 at the earliest. ($1 = 0.8505 euros) (Reporting by Arno Schuetze; Additional reporting by Tom Sims; Editing by Maria Sheahan) LONDON, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Germany's 10-year government bond yield fell to a five-week low on Tuesday, reversing an early rise, as a perception that any unwinding of ECB stimulus is likely to be prolonged continued to underpin debt markets in the region. The 10-year Bund yield fell to as low as 0.368 percent , while other euro zone bond yields also headed lower. They had opened the session higher as bond investors weighed up the implications of a potentially more hawkish Federal Reserve chief taking over from Janet Yellen. (Reporting by Dhara Ranasinghe; Editing by Saikat Chatterjee) ATHENS, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Greece and the International Monetary Fund agree that the next bailout review of the country's fiscal and reform progress must be concluded fast, Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said on Monday. European Union and IMF inspectors are expected in Athens next week to start talks on Greece's bailout progress. Disagreements between Athens, the European Union and the Washington-based IMF over the country's fiscal targets and the size of debt relief it needs helped delay the conclusion of a previous bailout review, which dragged on for months hurting economic activity. Athens now wants to speed up, hoping to end bailout supervision when its current programme expires in August 2018. "We agreed that it is in all parties interest to conclude the third review in time, the soonest possible," Tsipras said after meeting IMF's Managing Director Christine Lagarde as part of an official trip to the United States. According to statements released in Greece on Tuesday, Tsipras said he believed that all parties have now overcome differences and hoped the IMF would play "a crucial and decisive" role in discussions on debt relief, a long standing Greek demand. He was expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump later on Tuesday. Greece's 86-billion-euro bailout, its third since 2010 when the debt crisis broke out, ends in less than a year. Athens hopes to conclude its third bailout review by December to start talks on the terms of exiting the programme. (Reporting by Angeliki Koutantou; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg) NEW DELHI, Oct 17 (Reuters) - India on Tuesday said it had imposed an anti-dumping duty on the import of some flat steel products from China and the European Union for five years to curb the influx of cheaper imports and help local producers. The government said in a statement the anti-dumping duty, which is valid for 5 years, is effective from Jan. 11 2017. (Reporting by Nidhi Verma; Editing by Tommy Wilkes) 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. JAKARTA, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Indonesia raised 22.5 trillion rupiah ($1.67 billion) worth of bonds at an auction, the finance ministry's financing and risk management office said on Tuesday, above the indicative target of 15 trillion rupiah. The government sold T-bills maturing in January 2018 with a weighted average yield of 4.73997 percent, higher than 4.68019 percent at the last auction on Oct. 3. The T-bills maturing in October 2018 had a weighted average yield of 5.17617 percent, also higher than the previous auction's 5.16167 percent. The bonds maturing in May 2022 had a weighted average yield of 6.19559 percent, up from 6.17962 percent at the last auction. The weighted average yield for bonds maturing in May 2027 was 6.56981 percent. The bonds maturing in May 2038 had a weighted average yield of 7.26985 percent, higher than 7.23987 percent at the last auction. The weighted average yield for bonds maturing in May 2048 was 7.29713 percent. Total incoming bids were 34.94 trillion rupiah, slightly higher than the 34.14 trillion rupiah received at the previous auction. The highest bid-to-cover ratio was 1.99 for the bonds maturing in May 2038 . ($1 = 13,507 rupiah) (Reporting by Nilufar Rizki; Editing by Sunil Nair) LONDON, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Iraq's dollar-denominated bonds jumped nearly one cent on Tuesday, more than making up for Monday's losses, after Baghdad government forces recaptured territory from Kurds across northern Iraq, including oil fields around Kirkuk. The 2028 issue gained 0.986 cents to 92.638 cents - the highest since Thursday, according to Thomson Reuters data. The 2023 bond added 0.850 cents to 98.550 cents. Oil officials in Baghdad said all the fields near Kirkuk were working normally on Tuesday after the last came under central government control. (Reporting by Karin Strohecker; Editing by Robin Pomeroy) ROME, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Italy's ruling parties are considering presenting a motion to parliament asking that Bank of Italy Governor Ignazio Visco should not be confirmed for a second term when his mandate expires at the end of this month, political sources said. If they do so, the move would significantly weaken Visco's chances of remaining in office. Some opposition parties have blamed Visco for presiding over several major bank scandals and a build-up of bad loans that has toppled 10 banks in two years. The position of the ruling Democratic Party and its small allies has so far been less clear. The ruling parties have prepared a draft motion, seen by Reuters, which asks the government to find an alternative candidate to Visco who is "more suitable to guarantee renewed trust" in the central bank. The motion has not yet been presented. The Bank of Italy governor is chosen by the head of state, Sergio Mattarella, after receiving the recommendations of the government and the Bank of Italy's internal supervisory body. (Reporting by Giuseppe Fonte, writing by Gavin Jones) By Raquel Castillo and Sam Edwards MADRID/BARCELONA, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Authorities in Madrid and Barcelona locked horns over whether two jailed Catalan pro-independence leaders were political prisoners, as their detention looked set to reignite secessionist protests. The Madrid High Court upped the stakes on Monday in Spain's worst political crisis in decades, moving to thwart Catalonia's independence push by jailing the heads of its two main separatist groups pending an investigation for alleged sedition. Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont, given a Thursday deadline to renounce independence or face the threat of direct rule from Madrid, tweeted following the detentions: "Sadly, we have political prisoners again". The phrase made a clear allusion to the military dictatorship under Francisco Franco, when Catalan culture and language were systematically suppressed. It carries an emotional resonance given fascism is still a living memory for many Spaniards. In response, Justice Minister Rafael Catala told reporters on Tuesday the jailing of Jordi Sanchez of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium's Jordi Cuixart was a judicial decision, not a political one. "We can talk of politicians in prison but not political prisoners," Catala said. "These are not political prisoners because yesterday's prison ruling was due to a (suspected) crime." The exchange threw a spotlight on the way the crisis has deepened divisions at the heart of Spain's young democracy, underlining the complex sense of nationhood in the euro zone's fourth largest economy. In Madrid, unionists drape their homes in the national flag, while many Barcelona apartment buildings are festooned with Catalan flags. European capitals and financial markets have meanwhile looked on with mounting alarm since Oct. 1, when Catalan authorities held a referendum on independence in defiance of a Spanish court ban. ORCHESTRATORS? Sanchez's ANC, which has organised protests of hundreds of thousands of secessionists in the past, called for further peaceful demonstrations around Catalonia on Tuesday. The biggest are expected to begin in Barcelona in the evening. Prosecutors say Sanchez and Cuixart helped orchestrate pro-independence protests that last month trapped national police inside a Barcelona building and destroyed their vehicles. That same incident also led to Catalonia's police chief, Josep Lluis Trapero, being investigated for sedition. He is accused of failing to order his force to rescue them from the building. He has not been detained but the High Court banned him from leaving Spain and seized his passport. A string of companies, including two major lenders, have decided to move their headquarters outside Catalonia since the referendum. Spanish police launched a violent crackdown in an effort to thwart it, using rubber bullets and batons on voters in scenes that shocked Spain's European neighbours. Catalan officials say 43 percent of voters still managed to cast ballots with 90 percent in favour of breaking away. Many unionists, however, obeyed Madrid and did not vote. One of Catalonia's major foreign investors, Volkswagen, said on Tuesday that its Spanish division, Seat, had decided to delay announcing the name of its forthcoming model. Seat, based in Martorell in Catalonia, had planned to announce the name of its 2018 sport-utility vehicle this month, about a year ahead of the 7-seat model's launch. "With the entire Spanish media focused on politics at the moment, we have decided to find a better time," a Seat spokesman said, adding the division had also delayed the announcement of an innovation and digitisation agreement. He did not elaborate. (Additional reporting by Paul Day and Sonya Dowsett; Writing by Mark Bendeich; editing by John Stonestreet) Following are news stories, press reports and events to watch that may affect Poland's financial markets on Tuesday. ALL TIMES GMT (Poland: GMT + 2 hours): DIPLOMACY Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoan will meet Poland's President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Beata Szydlo during his one-day visit to Poland. DATA Poland's statistics office to release corporate wages and employment data at 1200 GMT. BUDGET In January-September period Polish state budget most probably recorded a surplus despite expectations of a deficit, according to a government source quoted by Dziennik Gazeta Prawna daily. PROTEST IN HEALTH CARE Unions warn that after failed negotiations with the government over spending on the health care system, the ongoing protest of doctors in Warsaw may spread over the country and other medical professionals, Fakt tabloid said. BREXIT After Britain decided to leave the European Union, 70,000 Poles decided to emigrate to the UK last year, Dziennik Gazeta Prawna said quoting statistics office data. Last the year number of Poles living outside Poland rose by 118,000 to 2,515,000. ****Reuters has not verified stories reported by Polish media and does not vouch for their accuracy.**** For other related news, double click on: Polish equities E.Europe equities Polish money Polish debt Eastern Europe All emerging markets Hot stocks Stock markets Market debt news Forex news For real-time index quotes, double click on: Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX (Reporting by Warsaw Bureau) WARSAW, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Poland's financial sector regulator KNF said on Tuesday that Raiffeisen must list at least 15 percent of shares in its Polish unit Raiffeisen Bank Polska on the Warsaw stock exchange by mid-may next year. On Monday Polish business daily Puls Biznesu said that Austrian bank representatives want KNF to allow them to float the Polish unit, known as Raiffeisen Polbank, in 2019 at the earliest without its Swiss franc mortgages portfolio, which would increase the attractiveness of the offering. Raiffeisen was expected to conduct an IPO by mid-2017 but failed to deliver on its promise. KNF warned on Tuesday that it may consider sanctions against Raiffeisen, such as stripping it of voting rights in Polbank after mid-May 2018 if it is not listed by this time. (Reporting by Marcin Goclowski, editing by Louise Heavens) Oct 17 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy. - Netflix Inc will spend between $7 billion and $8 billion on content in 2018, up from the roughly $6 billion it will spend this year, the streaming service said while announcing its third-quarter earnings on Monday. - Tarak Ben Ammar, one of three remaining Weinstein Company board members, said in a statement on Monday that the studio had reached a preliminary agreement with Colony Capital for an "immediate" cash infusion. - The family behind the 116-year-old Nordstrom Inc retail chain is shelving its efforts to go private until after the holiday season, the company said on Monday. - A federal judge in Texas invalidated four key patents for the dry-eye treatment Restasis on Monday, dealing a blow to its manufacturer, Allergan Plc , which had sought to protect its patents by transferring them to a Native American tribe. (Compiled by Bengaluru newsroom) By Hanna Paul Oct 17 (Reuters) - The Philippine stock market hit a record high on Tuesday, surging more than 1 percent, as trading resumed after a holiday, while most other Southeast Asian markets were subdued. The Philippine stock index leapt as much as 1.4 percent, driven by heavyweights SM Investments and BDO Unibank . "We're playing catch-up, most regional markets rallied yesterday so today there's pent-up demand," said Jeff Lucero, an analyst from RCBC Securities. Cash remittances from Filipinos overseas rose 7.8 percent in August, data from the Philippine central bank showed on Monday. Broader Asian shares held on to gains from the previous session on optimism about upcoming earnings. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was up 0.1 percent. Singapore shares inched up marginally even as data showed an unexpected dip in exports in September. Non-oil domestic exports fell 1.1 percent in September from a year earlier, compared to analysts' expectations of a 12.7 percent rise. Vietnam shares also edged up, with financial stocks dominating gains. Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV) and Vietcom Bank were the best performers in the benchmark. The Jakarta SE composite index , which fell as much as 0.4 percent, led the losses in the region. Financial stocks made up for most of the decline, with Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk among top decliners. Thai shares were also in the red, with petroleum and gas giant PTT Public Co leading losers. For Asian Companies click; SOUTHEAST ASIAN STOCK MARKETS: Change at 0357 GMT Change on the day Market Current previous Pct Move close Singapore 3326.3 3323.06 0.10 Bangkok 1722.29 1726.67 -0.25 Manila 8551.36 8447.94 1.22 Jakarta 5933.476 5949.701 -0.27 Kuala Lumpur 1752.29 1754.37 -0.12 Ho Chi Minh 822.48 819.43 0.37 Change on year Market Current End 2016 Pct Move Singapore 3326.3 2880.76 15.47 Bangkok 1722.29 1542.94 11.62 Manila 8551.36 6840.64 25 Jakarta 5933.476 5296.711 12.02 Kuala Lumpur 1752.29 1641.73 6.73 Ho Chi Minh 822.48 664.87 23.7 (Reporting by Hanna Paul; Editing by Amrutha Gayathri) LJUBLJANA, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Slovenia's tax revenues rose by 6.7 percent to 5.7 billion euros ($6.69 billion) in the first nine months of 2017, helping to reduce the central budget deficit in that period to 63.6 million euros, the finance ministry said on Tuesday. In the same period of 2016 the budget deficit had stood at about 500 million euros. The ministry said in a statement that its budget income rose by 7.2 percent in the first three quarters of the year, while budgetary spending fell by 0.3 percent. It gave no further details on spending cuts. Inflows from European Union funds rose by 52.6 million euros year-on-year compared to the first nine months of 2016. Slovenia narrowly avoided an international bailout for its banks in 2013 but returned to economic growth a year later. The government expects economic growth of 4.4 percent this year versus 3.1 percent in 2016, mainly on account of higher exports and investments. The government plans to bring the general budget deficit to below 0.8 percent of GDP this year from 1.9 percent in 2016. ($1 = 0.8518 euros) (Reporting By Marja Novak; Editing by Gareth Jones) HANOI, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Here's a snapshot of Vietnamese dong exchange rates in the official and unofficial markets, indicative SJC gold prices in Hanoi and interbank offered rates at 0528 GMT. October 17 USD/VND mid-point 22,452 USD/VND interbank 22,717/22,722 USD/VND unofficial 22,720/22,730 SJC gold (mln dong/tael) 36.41/36.63 Interbank offered rates Overnight 0.7-1.1 1 week 0.8-1.2 1 month 1.5-1.9 3 months 3.2-3.6 NOTES: As of Jan. 4, 2016, the State Bank of Vietnam has begun setting the mid-point rate on daily basis, allowing dollar/dong transactions to move in a band of +/- 3 percent around the mid point. The dong's exchange rate against other currencies is not restricted by a band. Interbank offered rates are the latest indicative bid/ask prices, quoted from market sources. One tael is equivalent to 37.5 grams or 1.21 troy ounces. SJC gold prices are quoted by state-owned Saigon Jewelry Co. For more interbank rate fixings released at 0400 GMT, click on . For Vietnam market overview click on: Vietnam's bonds market auctions: Bonds auction results: (Compiled by Hanoi Newsroom; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips) By Trevor Hunnicutt NEW YORK, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Sri Lanka has a "clear plan" to manage its debt, with proceeds of any divestment and privatization to be used to repay loans the island nation has borrowed, central bank chief Indrajit Coomaraswamy told Reuters this week. Sri Lanka is facing a debt crisis with the repayment cycle of expensive infrastructure foreign loans starting next year. The $81 billion economy has to repay over $5 billion in the next 12 months while the country has just over $7 billion in foreign exchange reserves, official central bank data showed. "We don't see it as a (sovereign default) risk," Coomaraswamy told Reuters in an interview in New York on the sidelines of an investor forum on Monday. He said the government has "committed itself" to using divestment proceeds "for liability management." "We are an outlier on our debt metrics, but we've never missed a single debt repayment commitment, and we certainly don't intend to do that," he said. "We feel we have a clear plan to manage the situation." Moody's Investors Service on Tuesday said Sri Lanka's significant borrowing requirements and heavy reliance on external and foreign-currency funding expose the sovereign to material liquidity and external financing risk, which weighs on Sri Lanka's credit profile. The total external debt was about $47 billion, or 57 percent of gross domestic product as of 2016, of which approximately 68 percent was public sector debt, Moody's said. External debt rose to 79.3 percent of GDP last year from 71.3 percent in 2014. However, the government has planned to cut it to 70 percent by 2020. The government has blamed "colossal borrowing" by the previous government for the spike in debt servicing. "Fortunately, next year we don't have an international sovereign bond maturity, but from 2019 onwards we have consecutive years of maturity," Coomaraswamy said. He said the government will use next year to raise money and refinance debt. Sri Lanka has already planned to reschedule some loans to ease its heavy debt repayment burden over the next two years through a new Liability Management bill. "Once that comes in we'll have the flexibility to raise some extra money for liability management," Coomaraswamy said. (Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt; Writing by Shihar Aneez; Editing by Leslie Adler) ZURICH, Oct 17(Reuters) - The Swiss blue-chip SMI was seen opening 0.3 percent higher at 9,300 points on Tuesday, according to premarket indications by bank Julius Baer . The following are some of the main factors expected to affect Swiss stocks. CREDIT SUISSE Activist investor RBR Capital Advisors is launching a campaign for breaking up Swiss bank Credit Suisse Group AG CSGN.S into three parts, the Financial Times reported. For more news, click on RICHEMONT The company said it expects an 80 percent increase in profit for the six months ended Sept. 30 after the world's second biggest luxury group reported improving sales and reduced inventory buybacks. For more news click COMPANY STATEMENTS * Gurit said it has won a contract for the production and supply of carbon fibre-based exterior car body panels from an Italian premium automotive manufacturer. * Leonteq said it has signed a cooperation agreement with Swiss Mobiliar for the development and provision of modern insurance products. Leonteq will support Swiss Mobiliar with its technology platform. * Zur Rose Group reported a 15.4 percent in Q3 sales to 245.9 million Swiss francs. * Mobilezone said it is transferring its head office to Rotkreuz. * VAT Group reported a 29 percent rise in Q3 sales to 167 million francs. ECONOMY * The Swiss National Bank remains committed to its current expansive monetary policy despite a reduced upward pressure on the Swiss franc and an improving global economic situation, Chairman Thomas Jordan told Swiss broadcaster SRF. (Reporting by Zurich newsroom) Daily Swiss stock market report in German................ All SMI constituent stocks............................ News on major Swiss stock price moves.................. FTSE Eurotop 300 index................................ DJ STOXX index........................................ Top 10 STOXX sectors............................. Top 10 EUROSTOXX sectors........................ Top 10 Eurotop 300 sectors....................... Top 25 European pct gainers... , losers... Swiss mid-cap index SMI futures Swiss all-share index Market statistics Swiss market digest Sector overview All Swiss news Swiss research news All equity news INTERNET ADDRESSES: Swiss Exchange / Eurex STOXX Ltd SPEED GUIDES: )) Keywords: MARKETS SWISS STOCKS/ * Requests for pitches sent out on Monday - sources * IPO seen taking place in first half of 2018 * IPO could value unit at 8 bln euros (Adds background, details) By Arno Schuetze FRANKFURT, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Deutsche Bank has asked banks to pitch for work on an initial public offering (IPO) of its asset management business that could raise around 2 billion euros ($2.4 billion), two people close to the matter said on Tuesday. Germany's largest lender said in March it planned to list the asset management arm, which could achieve a total valuation of around 8 billion euros, within two years as part of a broader overhaul following costly lawsuits and trading scandals. The requests to pitch for roles such as that of the global coordinator were sent out on Monday, the sources said, adding Deutsche Bank would likely act as the main organiser of the IPO itself but wants help to market the shares. The bank will start meeting representatives of other investment banks in the coming days to hear their view on the business, which includes its mainstay DWS retail asset management brand, the sources said. Banks are being asked to specify any concerns over the attractiveness of the business to equity investors, their view on the peer group, valuation method, timing of the deal and potential buyers of the stock. Banks that helped Deutsche with its 8.5 billion euro capital raising earlier this year stand good chances of securing roles on the deal, people close to the matter have said in the past. They include Barclays, Credit Suisse and Goldman Sachs. Deutsche Bank declined to comment. While investors had initially expected the IPO as soon as this autumn, Deutsche Bank pushed it back into the first half of 2018, wanting more time to refine and sell the business's strategy to potential buyers of the stock. Some investors indicated they would prefer a stronger focus at Deutsche's asset management arm on so-called passive investments or exchange traded funds (ETFs), whereas its main business is currently with actively managed funds. Deutsche Asset Management currently has 711 billion euros invested worldwide, of which 526 billion are actively managed, 107 billion in ETFs and the rest in alternatives such as real estate. Deutsche Bank reports third-quarter earnings on Oct. 26. Division head Nicolas Moreau said in the summer that the bundling of the unit's businesses into one holding company would be done by October, as would the finalisation of distribution and service contracts between the business and its parent. Deutsche Bank hopes that by giving the unit more operational independence it will attract more talent. Group CEO John Cryan has said the bank will maintain a "controlling and super-majority stake" in the asset management business. ($1 = 0.8505 euros) (Additional reporting by Tom Sims; Editing by Maria Sheahan and Mark Potter) (Adds comments, background) HELSINKI, Oct 17 (Reuters) - The Finnish government is set to press ahead with a stock market listing of state-owned alcoholic drinks company Altia to help boost its growth. The likely flotation is part of the centre-right coalition's plan to sell shares in state-owned companies worth about 1.6 billion euros ($1.9 billion) by 2018. Known for its Koskenkorva vodka brand, Altia generated sales of 357 million euros last year. It has recently acquired cognac brands Larsen, Renault and Xante. "The company is in a good shape now, the market is favourable and this is politically manageable... it is very likely that this leads to an IPO," said Eero Heliovaara, Director General of the Finnish Government Ownership Steering Department. The government said it would retain a stake of at least one third in Altia after a possible listing on the Helsinki bourse. The review is expected to be finished in the first half of 2018. Privatisation is a sensitive topic in Finland and pressure from labour unions has limited sell-offs in recent years. The state owns stakes in 14 of the Helsinki market's listed firms, as well as 55 other companies. The Altia plan was no surprise after parliament in 2014 scrapped a clause obliging the state to hold a majority stake in the firm. The government has so far sold its stake in waste treatment company Ekokem for 198 million euros, and it has recently sought a mandate to cut its stake in refiner Neste . The government has also said that mail and delivery company Posti is another possible privatisation target. ($1 = 0.8507 euros) (Reporting by Jussi Rosendahl and Tuomas Forsell; Editing by Keith Weir) * Catalan stance sets region on collision course with Madrid * Spanish government threatens direct rule * High court jails heads of two separatist groups * Tens of thousands demonstrate in Barcelona (Updates with protests in Barcelona, constitutional court) By Sonya Dowsett and Sam Edwards BARCELONA, Oct 17 (Reuters) - Catalonia refused on Tuesday to bow to the Spanish government's demand that it renounce a symbolic declaration of independence, setting it on a political collision course with Madrid later this week. Madrid has threatened to put Catalonia, which accounts for a fifth of Spain's economy, under direct central rule if its regional government does not abandon independence by Thursday. But Catalonia's government rejected Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's deadline. "Giving in forms no part of this government's scenarios," Catalan government spokesman Jordi Turull said. "On Thursday, we won't give anything different than what we gave on Monday." Spain's biggest political crisis in decades worsened on Monday night when Madrid's High Court jailed the heads of Catalonia's two main separatist groups pending an investigation for alleged sedition. The Catalan government accused Madrid of taking "political prisoners" and tens of thousands of protesters gathered along Barcelona's Diagonal Avenue to call for their release. People held up lighted candles, whistled and shouted "freedom" and "out with the occupying forces". "There should not be political prisoners in a democratic country in the 21st century. This country is not democratic. I'm here to support democracy," said Alicia Cabreriza, a 26-year-old computer programmer from Barcelona. Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont, in a tweet following the detentions, said: "Sadly, we have political prisoners again." The phrase was an allusion to the military dictatorship under Francisco Franco, when Catalan culture and language were systematically suppressed. It carries an emotional resonance given fascism is still a living memory for many Spaniards. Justice Minister Rafael Catala hit back, saying the jailing of the leaders of the separatist groups, the Catalan National Assembly and Omnium, was a judicial, not a political, decision. "We can talk of politicians in prison but not political prisoners," he said. "These are not political prisoners because yesterday's prison ruling was due to a (suspected) crime." The crisis has deepened divisions at the heart of Spain's young democracy, underlining the complex sense of nationhood in the euro zone's fourth largest economy. In Madrid, unionists drape their homes in the national flag, while Barcelona apartment buildings are festooned with Catalan flags. Street protests of hundreds of thousands of people have been held on both sides of the divide, including in Catalonia. "They've crossed a line," said Eulalia Lopez, a 54-year-old office worker in Barcelona. She said she and her colleagues would come out onto the streets if Madrid went ahead and took control of the region. ORCHESTRATORS? European capitals and financial markets have looked on with mounting alarm since Oct. 1, when Catalan authorities held a referendum on independence in defiance of a Spanish court ban. ANC leader Jordi Sanchez and Omnium chief Jordi Cuixart are accused by prosecutors of helping to orchestrate pro-independence protests that last month trapped national police inside a Barcelona building and destroyed their vehicles. That same incident also led to Catalonia's police chief, Josep Lluis Trapero, being investigated for sedition. He is accused of failing to order his force to rescue them from the building. He has not been detained but the High Court banned him from leaving Spain and seized his passport. A string of companies, including two major lenders, have decided to move their headquarters outside Catalonia since the referendum. Spanish police launched a violent crackdown in an effort to thwart the referendum, using rubber bullets and batons on voters in scenes that shocked Spain's European neighbours. Catalan officials say 43 percent of voters still managed to cast ballots with 90 percent in favour of breaking away. Many unionists, however, obeyed Madrid and did not vote. Spain's constitutional court, which had suspended the referendum, said on Tuesday the law passed by the Catalan parliament to hold the vote was void because it broke dispositions of Spain's 1978 constitution. One of Catalonia's major foreign investors, Volkswagen, said on Tuesday that its Spanish division, Seat, had decided to delay announcing the name of its forthcoming model. Seat, based in Martorell in Catalonia, had planned to announce the name of its 2018 sport-utility vehicle this month, about a year ahead of the 7-seat model's launch. "With the entire Spanish media focused on politics at the moment, we have decided to find a better time," a Seat spokesman said, adding the division had also delayed the announcement of an innovation and digitisation agreement. He did not elaborate. (Additional reporting by Paul Day and Raquel Castillo; Writing by Mark Bendeich; Editing by Julien Toyer and Gareth Jones) (Adds analysts' comments, background on deal, generics business; updates shares) Oct 17 (Reuters) - Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC is buying peer Impax Laboratories Inc in an all-stock deal as it looks to add heft to its generics business and gain an edge in a tough drug pricing environment. The deal comes at a time when speedy aprovals of generic drugs by U.S. regulators has ratcheted up competition in the sector, mounting pressure on smaller generic drug makers such as Impax that lack bargaining power. The combined entity will become the fifth-largest generics business in the United States, the companies said on Tuesday. Reuters reported in March that Impax had asked investment bank Morgan Stanley to help it conduct a strategic review to cope with the competitive drug pricing environment. Impax's shares, which more than doubled in value after the report, slumped about 15 percent to $16.95 in morning trading on Tuesday. Cantor Fitzgerald analysts said in a client note that the deal increases the likelihood that Impax CEO Paul Bisaro could transform the mid-size generics drug maker into a leading generics and specialty pharma company. Amneal Holdings' members will own 75 percent and Impax shareholders 25 percent of the new company's pro forma shares. Bisaro, who was formerly an executive at Allergan Plc , would be the chief executive of the new publicly listed entity. The combined company will have a diverse pipeline with more than 300 products either filed with the FDA or in active stages of development, Cantor analysts said. The deal, which is expected to close in the first half of 2018, would add to Impax's standalone adjusted earnings in the first 12 months, and generate double-digit revenue and earnings growth in the next three years. "This growth profile is better than what we expect for Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd and Endo International Plc given headwinds facing those businesses in 2018," Cantor analysts added. As part of the deal, privately held Amneal will sell 46.8 million unregistered common shares at $18.25 per share to generate proceeds of $855 million. J.P. Morgan Securities is Amneal's financial adviser, while Latham & Watkins LLP is its legal adviser. Morgan Stanley provides financial advice to Impax, while Sullivan & Cromwell LLP is its legal adviser. Impax also received advice from BofA Merrill Lynch. (Reporting by Manas Mishra and Divya Grover in Bengaluru; Editing by Martina D'Couto) * Combined entity to be publicly listed * Deal to close in 1H18 * Impax was expected to keep >25 pct stake - analyst (Adds analysts' comments, background on retail pharmacies; updates shares) By Divya Grover and Manas Mishra Oct 17 (Reuters) - Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC is buying fellow generics drug maker Impax Laboratories Inc in an all-stock deal as a bulwark against a tough drug pricing environment. The deal comes at a time when speedy approvals of generics by U.S. regulators have ratcheted up competition in the sector, mounting pressure on smaller drugmakers such as Impax, which has a market cap of about $1.48 billion. Adding to the woes of generics makers, U.S. retail pharmacies including Wal-Mart Stores Inc and Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc are wielding more leverage when buying such drugs, leading to continued price erosion. "A transaction like this simply had to happen ... in an environment that is likely to continue to be characterized by margin pressure," Piper Jaffray analyst David Amsellem said. Impax in March had asked Morgan Stanley to help it conduct a strategic review. Amneal Holdings' members will own 75 percent and Impax shareholders to own 25 percent of the new company's pro forma shares. "We like Amneal as a better positioned generics asset, but believe Impax was expected to keep more than a 25 percent stake," Susquehanna analysts said. Impax's shares, which more than doubled in value after the Reuters report, tumbled nearly 16 percent to $16.80 on Tuesday. Analysts believe the combined entity would have a diverse pipeline and greater exposure to complex dosage forms that have more favorable competitive dynamics. The deal, which is expected to close in the first half of 2018, would add to Impax's standalone adjusted earnings in the first year, and generate double-digit revenue and earnings growth in the next three years. "This growth profile is better than what we expect for Teva and Endo International given headwinds facing those businesses in 2018," Cantor Fitzgerald analysts said. Impax's Paul Bisaro would be CEO of the new publicly listed firm Amneal Pharmaceuticals Inc, which is expected to generate pro forma net revenue of $1.75 billion-$1.85 billion in 2017. Bisaro, was largely behind transforming a much smaller generic drugmaker Watson Pharmaceuticals, which was at about $2 billion in market cap, into the current version of Allergan with a market valuation of about $80 billion. J.P. Morgan Securities is Amneal's financial adviser, while Latham & Watkins LLP is its legal adviser. Morgan Stanley provides financial advice to Impax, while Sullivan & Cromwell LLP is its legal adviser. Impax also received advice from BofA. <^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ BREAKINGVIEWS-Investors choke on generic-drug deal complexity ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^> (Reporting by Manas Mishra and Divya Grover in Bengaluru; Editing by Martina D'Couto) By Park Hyong-ki The number of companies that are able to move and shake the market has increased in the U.S. over the last decade. Such innovative tech firms including Apple and Facebook, which started out from a garage and a college dormitory, have replaced most of the traditional manufacturers and financial companies as the top blue chips in the U.S. stock market. Other tech companies that have emerged disrupting conventional industries include Nvidia and Google. Nvidia is a graphics processing chip company that is engaged in artificial intelligence applications and autonomous driving. Google is a global search giant that is also extending its reach into fields related to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Amazon and Tesla are also making disruptions in e-commerce and electric vehicles (EVs). Amazon was able to hurt brick and mortar book outlets such as Barnes and Noble, while Tesla has surpassed GM in market capitalization, not to mention in sales of EVs. By comparison, Korean blue chips offer a different look. There are only six companies that are considered new and innovative, according to CEO Score, an online business analyst. The top 100 companies on the main bourse by market capitalization mostly still consist of aging conglomerates, or chaebol. The six are: Netmarble Games, Samsung SDS, Kakao, CJ E&M, LG Innotek and SK. They are a new bunch that entered the stock market over the last decade, showing potential to replace the old and create the next big thing. Among conglomerates listed on the stock market, Samsung Electronics and SK hynix are "movers and shakers," highlighted as companies that would survive in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Samsung Electronics is the biggest blue chip in Korea, followed by SK hynix. Their manufacturing and exports of semiconductors have helped sustain the economy in an otherwise weak domestic market with sluggish consumption. Without those two, many analysts say the benchmark KOSPI could not have reached record highs over the past months. It remains to be seen whether the chip industry, Korea's core industry, can keep up its momentum given China's aggressive technological rise. "China has already overtaken most of the Korean traditional industries such as shipbuilding, steel and displays. It is expected China will do the same in chips within five years," said Kim Man-gi, a professor of Chinese business at Sookmyung Women's University. By Yoon Ja-young Those planning to fly to the United States had better hurry to the airport early so as not to miss their flight. Airlines advise them to arrive at least four or five hours earlier than the departure time beginning Oct. 26, since they have to go through a security interview at the airport amid growing concerns over terrorist attacks. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Tuesday, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requested all airlines flying to the U.S. as well as its territories such as Guam and Saipan to strengthen security checks of passengers back in June. The TSA was established in 2001 following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. As the first phase of the strengthened security measures, both low-cost and full-service carriers have been implementing additional screening of portable electronic equipment at the boarding gate since July 19. By Rachel Lee Government officials from Mekong sub-region countries Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand are in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, for a training workshop from Oct. 15-20. The "Mekong Sub-regional Capacity Building Workshop on Cultural Heritage," organized by the ASEAN-Korea Centre, aims to provide a platform for national training of cultural heritage specialist guides, contributing to developing sustainable tourism. Lao PDR's Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Institute for Tourism Studies (IFT) and the United Nations Educational and Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Bangkok office is co-hosting the event. "As world cultural heritage is a key component of sustainable tourism, efforts of the government and government-related organizations in preserving and managing cultural heritages are imperative," ASEAN-Korea Centre Secretary General Kim Young-sun said. "The Mekong sub-region is important as more than half of ASEAN's World Cultural Heritage sites are dispersed in the region. I hope this workshop can strengthen the competency of training programs for cultural heritage specialist guides in the Mekong sub-region, thereby contributing to developing sustainable tourism for the Mekong sub-region countries." The U.N. has designated this year the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. Professor Sharif Shams Imon, from IFT, and Ong Chin Ee, from the National University of Singapore (NUS), who are among the developers of UNESCO's cultural heritage specialist guides training module, and Steven Schipani, from ADB, a specialist on tourism in the Mekong sub-region, will host sessions on key issues in cultural heritage tourism using the UNESCO core module. The organization said participants will also hear presentations on training programs in each country and take part in discussions and cross-country exercises. Following the lectures, the lecturers and participants will visit cultural heritage sites in Luang Prabang, where they can visualize and implement the information they have learned about preserving, managing, promoting and interpreting cultural heritage sites. Cast members Jamie Horan, left, and Jason Cutler rehearse "Garage." / Courtesy of Robert Michael Evans By John Redmond The Seoul Shakespeare Company (SSC) will stage its production of "Garage" at Studio SK this weekend. Originally devised by Dive Theatre in New York City, "Garage" is a raw, intimate and uncompromising work of contemporary theater. The plot sees high school English teacher David and his wife Susan return to David's rural hometown in Arkansas for the funeral of his estranged alcoholic father. While visiting the emptied-out garage where his father used to fix cars, the couple unexpectedly encounters Brandon, David's childhood bully. During an alcohol-infused night in the garage together, David, Susan and Brandon reveal parts of themselves in unexpected, intimate, sometimes violent ways. "Garage" was written in 2010 by Michael Hogwood, Nathan Riley, Bryce Kemph, Jenna Kirk and Jason Cutler, with rewrites in 2014 by Jason Cutler. Starring Jamie Horan, Lauren Ash-Morgan and Jason Cutler, the SSC production is directed by Michael Downey. "This play breaks new ground for our company and gives audiences a chance to see some familiar faces in new theatrical territory," organizers said. The SSC is a not-for-profit theater company centered in Seoul. Comprising a diverse community of actors and artists, the company strives to produce quality productions that span linguistic and cultural boundaries while celebrating live theater and the communities that produce these challenging and engaging works. The performance contains adult language, sexual themes and mild violence and is not appropriate for children. Performance times are 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday with an approximate runtime of one hour. All performances are in English with Korean subtitles. There will be a talk-back with the audience after the Sunday 3 p.m. show. Ticket prices are 15,000 won and only cash is accepted. To find Studio SK, take exit 4 of Hyehwa Station on Line 4 and turn left. Follow that street for about three minutes, until you get to the main road. It is located near the main gate of Sungkyunkwan University. Seating begins approximately 30 minutes before each performance. There is no assigned seating, so arrive early to choose the best seats. President Moon Jae-in sits in a T-50 jet of the Air Force's Black Eagles aerobatic flight team for a photo with pilots during his visit to the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition 2017 at Seoul Airport in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, Tuesday. The biennial event will be held for six days. Korea Times photo by Ko Young-kwon President vows early establishment of 3-pronged system By Jun Ji-hye South Korea needs to develop its own aerospace and defense capabilities to maintain peace on the Korean Peninsula, President Moon Jae-in said Tuesday. Moon also said the country should deploy advanced weapons systems to better defend against North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats. He made these remarks during an opening ceremony for the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2017, a biennial event that will be held for six days at Seoul Airport in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. "The government will make every effort to establish a three-pronged defense system at the earliest possible date to strengthen national security," Moon said. The three elements Moon referred to are the Kill Chain pre-emptive strike system, the Korean Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR) plan. The Kill Chain is a system to carry out pre-emptive strikes against Pyongyang's nuclear and missile facilities if Seoul is faced with an imminent threat, while the KAMD would track and shoot down North Korean ballistic missiles heading south. The KMPR would be used to retaliate against the North if it strikes the South. The government plans to deploy the three systems within the next decade. President Moon also called for export-oriented arms development, saying this will be a next-generation growth engine. Moon noted that T-50 supersonic trainers manufactured by Korea Aerospace Industries have sold consistently in overseas markets for the past decade and that the 230mm multiple rocket launching system Chunmoo developed by Hanwha Corp. has received global attention. "We already have good conditions for export-oriented arms development as South Korea's manufacturing industry and IT are at a world-class level," Moon said. "We also have outstanding technical and scientific personnel and education systems." Stressing the need to reform the defense industry to meet the needs of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Moon vowed to support small- and medium-sized companies as well as venture enterprises entering it. Toward that end, Moon added he intends to root out corruption related to defense procurement. The defense exhibition, which brought together 405 defense companies from 33 countries, is taking place amid heightened military tension here following a recent war of words between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The U.S. dispatched F-22 Raptor and F-35 stealth fighter jets and a B-1B Lancer strategic bomber to the air show. The 7th U.S. Air Force earlier said it expected approximately 200 U.S. personnel to participate in ADEX 2017. It added that other U.S. assets participating in the event include the A-10 Thunderbolt II, C-17 Globemaster III, C-130J Hercules, KC-135 Stratotanker, E-3 Sentry, U-2 Dragon Lady and RQ-4 Global Hawk. For its part, South Korea is displaying KT-1 basic and T-50 advanced trainers, K-2 battle tanks, K-9 self-propelled howitzers and guided missiles such as the Chunma and Chungoong. Four police officials, including a former Seoul police chief, were indicted Tuesday on charges of negligent homicide in the death of an activist farmer due to injuries caused by a police water cannon. In November 2015, Baek Nam-ki fell unconscious after he was shot directly by a police water cannon during an anti-government rally. The farmer in his 60s was in a coma before he died of acute renal failure in September 2016. The Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office indicted Goo Eun-soo, then commissioner of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, and Shin Yun-kyun, then chief of the 4th riot squad, without detention. Two other police officers who operated the water cannon will also face trial without detention. The prosecution said the police did not follow rules, which ban firing water cannons directly at a person above the chest. Baek was hit directly in his head with the high pressure jet. It accused the police of neglecting their duty to control the use of force with the utmost caution given safety concerns. The probe also revealed that a device that controls the water pressure was malfunctioning at that time, raising the possibility that it could have been fired at a pressure exceeding the legal limit. Police had denied responsibility for his death, saying it followed every legal procedure. The prosecution, however, did not file charges against then national police chief Kang Sin-myeong, saying he was not directly involved in the operation. Baek's death stirred up a huge public uproar against the law enforcement's excessive use of force on protesters. In June, the hospital that wrote Baek's death report overturned its previous conclusion and said his death was from an "external cause." (Yonhap) By Jung Min-ho Prosecutor General Mun Moo-il speaks during a press conference at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office in southern Seoul, Tuesday. / Yonhap Former President Lee Myung-bak can't be exempt from law enforcement, Prosecutor General Mun Moo-il said Tuesday when asked about investigations into alleged illegalities found during Lee's term. The ex-president has been suspected of involvement in the National Intelligence Service's online smear campaign against then-liberal presidential candidate Moon Jae-in in the 2012 presidential election. Asked whether the prosecution will investigate Lee, Mun said, "We cannot ignore the evidence we've gathered." He declined to elaborate, but his remarks indicate the prosecution could soon look into the actions of the former president. The prosecution has also been investigating an allegation the spy agency created a blacklist of artists to cut off from state subsidies while he was president. It is looking into the BBK stock price manipulation scandal once again, in which Lee was accused of siphoning off money through stock price manipulation in 2007. The incident reportedly caused 5,500 investors to lose about 100 billion won, but the prosecution concluded at that time he was not involved. The top prosecutor also said the corruption trial of former President Park Geun-hye has nothing to do with "political revenge," in response to a remark she made a day ago. Speaking to reporters, Mun said the prosecution has handled her case according to the rule of law only. "Violations of the Constitution and law were the cause (of what has happened to her)," Mun said. "Over the past year, the whole process has been led peacefully by the people." On Monday, Park said she "had lost faith" in the country's justice system, claiming she was a victim of political revenge. In her first public statement in six months, she criticized the court for its decision to extend her detention for another six months at the prosecution's request. Asked about her lawyers, who resigned in protest of the court's decision, Mun said there was no need to panic. "As far as I know, the court dealt with similar situations during the trial of former Presidents Chun Doo-hwan and Roh Tae-woo," he said. He also made it clear the prosecution under his leadership has not investigated anyone for political reasons. "We have not targeted anyone unfairly. Many high-profile investigations had already started before I took this post (in July)," he said. The prosecution has been under pressure to reform itself to increase transparency. As part of the effort, Mun promised to make its decision-making process more transparent. Under the new system, he noted, it will be easier to find out who issued orders for every case so that, when problems occur, it will be easier to figure out who is responsible for them. Yet he refused to express his opinion about the Moon administration's own reform plan creating an independent body to investigate and indict high-ranking government officials and depriving the prosecution of some or all of its investigative powers. By Kim Se-jeong The prosecution indicted four police officers Tuesday on charges of negligent homicide in the death of farmer Baek Nam-ki. Spray from a water cannon knocked Baek down during an anti-government protest in downtown Seoul, Nov. 18, 2015. He died Sept. 25, 2016 at Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH) after remaining unconscious for almost 10 months. "Baek's death was a result of abusive power exerted by the authorities who failed to follow the water cannon manual and supervise the officers on duty," said prosecutor Lee Dong-jin. "What's left to us now is to bring them to justice for abusing their power and killing an innocent citizen." The decision comes almost two years after Baek's family and a group of farmers requested a criminal investigation into seven police officers. Prosecutors did not indict Kang Shin-myung, then-chief of the National Police Agency, saying he had "nothing to do with water cannon truck operations on the day of the incident." The four indicted officers include two who fired the water cannon at Baek and their two supervisors. The prosecution said the water cannon's pumping cycle was operating at 28,000 rpm, higher than instructed, because a pressure control device was broken. The prosecution added the police officers fired the water cannon for 30 seconds altogether 13 seconds at Baek's head while he was standing and 17 seconds after his collapse. The manual states the water cannon should not be aimed above a person's chest. Prosecutor also said shock from the water cannon was the cause of his death. The controversy over this rattled the country for months last year, pushing thousands of people to the street and dividing the medical community in two. Baek's doctor, Paek Sun-ha, concluded cardiopulmonary arrest from natural causes as the cause of death. While the doctor was adamant on his diagnosis, critics condemned him for making a "political decision" to protect former President Park Geun-hye's government. On June 15 this year, SNUH changed the cause of death to external injury from being hit by the water cannon. US president will get best treatment: Cheong Wa Dae By Kim Rahn South Korea will provide the best treatment it can offer to a foreign dignitary when U.S. President Donald Trump arrives here Nov. 7 for a two-day state visit, Cheong Wa Dae said Tuesday. Trump will be the first sitting U.S. head of state to make a "state visit" in 25 years following George H. W. Bush in 1992. He will also be the first head of state to visit Korea since the Moon Jae-in government was launched in May. "A state visit is made only once for a country during a Korean president's term," presidential spokesman Park Soo-hyun said. "Considering this, Trump's state visit means we are treating him with the best respect as a top guest." Foreign leaders' visits are divided into state, official, working and private visits, with each governed by different protocols. A state visit usually includes welcome and farewell ceremonies upon arrival and departure, an artillery salute, an official welcome ceremony at Cheong Wa Dae, a state dinner with a performance, a summit and cultural programs. Trump's visit this time will include almost all such events, according to Park. By Kim Hyo-jin Park Geun-hye Former President Park Geun-hye has come under harsh criticism Tuesday for indicating she would boycott her bribery and corruption trial, dismissing it as political revenge. With the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) silent about her comment, liberal parties came together to denounce her, saying she is denying the judicial process and evading legal responsibility for disruption of state management caused by the influence-peddling scandal involving her confidant Choi Soon-sil. Meanwhile, the LKP is taking steps to expel her from the party. It plans to hold an ethics committee meeting today to decide on disciplinary measures for the ousted president. The party has already relayed its position to Park that it hopes she leaves voluntarily, according to officials. Park claimed her treatment was politically motivated, during a hearing at the Seoul Central District Court, Monday, after the court last week extended her detention for an extra six months. In an outburst criticizing the court that issued the new arrest warrant, Park said she had lost faith that the court would do a fair job in accordance with the Constitution and conscience, free from political influence and public pressure. "I will just leave the remaining trial in the hands of the justices," Park said after her lawyers resigned en masse to protest the court decision, alluding to her possible absence from future hearings. This brought a backlash from liberal parties. "It's an outright denial of the judiciary. It's not an attitude a former president is supposed to take," ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) floor leader Rep. Woo Won-shik said. "She is involved in a legal process sparked by the worst-ever corruption scandal in which state management was severely disrupted, not political retaliation." The minor opposition People's Party and Justice Party chimed in, calling her "shameless." "It's deplorable she made sophistry speaking publicly for the first time since her trial began six months ago," said Rep. Kim Dong-cheol, floor leader of the People's Party. "It's not too late yet. Confessing and unveiling the truth is the only way she can apologize to the public." "Park is in a state of denying reality. She is attempting to draw political support by posing herself as a victim," Justice Party Chairwoman Rep. Lee Jeong-mi said. "She should know that a legal process against a criminal who drove many people to death and embezzled the people's money is a show of patience by citizens living in a democratic society." Meanwhile, attention is on a meeting of the LKP committee slated for today. It is likely to decide to ask Park to leave the party voluntarily as recommended last month by its reform panel. If Park rejects the request, it can expel her within 10 days under LKP membership rules. The party said it had already delivered its position to Park through multiple channels. Park's response remains unknown but some expect her to turn the request down, considering her stance shown Monday. By Park Myung-seok I hope President Moon Jae-in will be well prepared for his meeting with his counterpart, Chinese president Xi Jinping. The ROK (South Korea)-U.S. alliance, forged in 1953 against the backdrop of the Korean War (1950-1953), has long served as the cornerstone for South Korea's security in deterring possible military provocations by North Korea. Recall that South Korea was nearly wiped out of existence by the combined armed forces of China and North Korea during the Korean War, but was eventually saved by the U.S. and the United Nations. For its survival, South Korea has needed a strong military alliance with the U.S. After all, the two Koreas are still technically at war with each other, as the war ended with an armistice, not a peace treaty that would have officially concluded the war. As recently as March 2013, North Korea revoked the armistice and threatened to purge South Korea with "a blanket of fire." Over the last 10 years, the international community has sought to persuade Pyongyang to drop its nuclear ambitions. In recent years, the U.S. Asia policy has shown a considerable shift. In this, what some observers dubbed a "Pivot to Asia" policy, the U.S. has beefed up relations with traditional allies in the region Japan and South Korea, and also reached out to new friends such as Vietnam and Burma, while deploying additional troops in Australia as well. Washington has also been strengthening its regional missile defense system. America's Pivot to Asia policy has alarmed China, raising suspicions about the ultimate goals of U.S. foreign policy in the region. South Korea has been drawn into this swirl of deepening suspicions and reactive counter-measures between China and America. The Pivot to Asia policy has a fatal flaw while warming up relations with China's neighbors, the United States has not done much to strengthen relations with China simultaneously. As a result, no matter how the United States justifies it, in the eyes of many Chinese the Pivot to Asia policy smacks of a new type of "encirclement" of China. What is Seoul to do? It doesn't have to be dragged around by the U.S. and China and instead should act wisely to coordinate the two. Seoul can play a "proactive role" between the two and even induce the rival powers to cooperate. That is, Seoul can take on a key role in improving the Washington-Beijing relationship by actively participating in global issues that are of common interest to both the U.S. and China. Maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula is one of them. Korea is not a weak nation as it had been until the latter part of the 20th century. It has gained economic power and can let its voice be heard on the world stage. The United States and China oppose North Korea's nuclear brinksmanship, but their policies toward North Korea have failed miserably. At the core is the difficulty for the United States and China to establish a trust-based relationship to deal with common challenges. Since the U.S. Pivot to Asia policy began, Beijing has considered a U.S. military presence in South Korea as a threat, because in the event of Korean unification China could confront the U.S. Army face-to-face on its eastern border. The relationship with South Korea is already too ingrained for China to risk. Human and trade exchanges have grown tremendously over the past several decades, and will keep growing in the future as well, and China will not want to give away such beneficial exchanges. The United States and China can and should work together to manage the North Korea challenge in order to promote lasting stability in East Asia and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and technology. The United States must redefine the Pivot to Asia strategy and pay more attention to improving relations with China. Without a strong and cooperative relationship with China, America's foreign policy toward North Korea and Asia will not succeed. Strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance is important for Seoul to boost its security but it should not develop in the direction of targeting China. Many experts view the U.S.-South Korea military alliance as "potentially the hottest-button issue" that could test the bilateral ties in the administrations of Moon and Xi. Unlike Japan's defense pact with the U.S., the South Korea-U.S alliance is against North Korea, but not against China. Seoul must clearly define the nature of this alliance, so that China does not consider it a threat. President Moon must recognize the critical independent role that he has to play in promoting positive relations between China and the U.S. Hopefully, President Moon will succeed in turning the current inter-Korean confrontational mode into a reconciliatory one, as well as encouraging China and the U.S to take a more active, collaborative role in resolving the North Korea nuclear issue through building a trusting relationship. Myung-seok Park, professor emeritus, Dankook Univercity, is the chairman, Beautiful Community INC. Association. It is exceedingly rare for the perennially bickering Korean political parties to speak with one voice on any issue. So the fact that lawmakers from both the ruling and opposition parties at the National Assembly Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee attacked a public enterprise responsible for developing Jeju Island, Monday, showed how poorly the state company is run. As legislators from rival parties enumerated, the Jeju International Free City Development Center (JDC) has such wide-ranging problems that it is doubtful whether the government should allow it to go on in its present state. Lawmakers were right to point out the JDC, set up in 2002 when the central government designated the nation's southernmost, subtropical island as a free international city to turn it into a regional tourism hub, has become a real estate dealer and reckless developer. A case in point was the abortive project to build a 2.5 trillion won ($2.2 billion) resort complex in Yere-dong, Seogwipo, with villas, hotels, a casino and a shopping mall. The joint project, with the Malaysian conglomerate Berjaya Group, began in 2008 for completion this year. But the Supreme Court ordered the suspension of the construction in April last year, citing that the developer had "misled landowners over the use of the site." No less problematic are two international schools set up to create an "English City" on the island. With an annual tuition of up to 60 million won, the North London Collegiate School and Branksome Hall Asia are only for the super-rich, as seen by nearly 40 percent of students hailing from the three wealthiest districts in Gangnam, southern Seoul. As the nation's first for-profit schools, they remit large amounts of money to their headquarter schools after giving scholarships to only a few, contrary to their original purpose of keeping excellent students in this country by providing international education. JDC rakes in nearly 100 billion won from its duty-free shop business, permitted by the central government to raise money needed for funding various projects. Rep. Lee Hae-chan of the ruling Democratic Party called for JDC to spend the revenue on protecting the environment of Jeju, not destroying it. We can hardly agree more. By Lee Seong-hyon The Trump administration has so far shown little regard for South Korea's suffering from the Chinese economic retaliation for hosting THAAD. Whether it is due to a lack of awareness at Capitol Hill or simply being a spectator who "watches a fire across the river," Washington's failure to show solidarity with its ally and recognition of the latter's distress is quietly hurting U.S. standing in the region. Due to China's retaliation over THAAD, South Korea's economy may suffer as much as an 8.5 trillion won ($7.5 billion) loss in 2017, according to estimates by Hyundai Research Institute. It is generally understood that THAAD is to deter North Korean aggression. But military experts are more specific; they point out that the primary purpose of THAAD in South Korea is to protect the U.S. military in South Korea's southern theater from North Korea's missile attacks and also to "buy time" for their safe exit out of the country. Critics have therefore rightly raised the question of why THAAD was not installed in Seoul, the densely populated capital that would be most vulnerable to North Korean missiles. China, which vehemently opposes THAAD, also exploited this obvious loophole to assert that THAAD is not useful in protecting Seoul. They argued that the "real" reason for America to try to install THAAD in South Korea (that doesn't protect Seoul) is to snoop on China's sensitive military facilities with the THAAD's powerful radar. Putting aside THAAD's technical prowess, the basic facts of THAAD are: it is a U.S. asset, operated by the U.S. military, on a U.S. base in South Korea, to protect U.S. men and women in uniform, and South Korea hosts it by providing land. While THAAD's missile-hitting capabilities are open to question, at least its radar is so powerful that it draws an outcry from China. In the U.S., however, THAAD is generally (and perhaps too simply) understood as America's generous commitment to protect South Korea. In this context, the protesters here in Seoul are seen by Washington as "ungrateful." It also explains the exasperation by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin who said, "If South Korea does not want the THAAD missile system, it is $923 million that we can spend some other place." Security experts have long regarded the Korean Peninsula as "East Asia's Balkans," where powerful countries' interests converge and collide. Seoul has been careful not to offend its big immediate neighbor, China, which has the appearance of a panda, but often acts like a dragon. Seoul-Beijing ties have been strained since Seoul announced in July last year it would allow the U.S. to deploy a THAAD battery here. The dragon has been gushing in spasms of outbursts of fury at Seoul with economic retaliations. Very conspicuously, America has largely been a listless bystander while all this is happening. It should think twice. Countries in East Asia are largely watching the ongoing THAAD spat as a symbolic struggle of influence between the U.S. and China. By dispensing economic retaliation to South Korea, China is also warning those countries in the region about "what happens" when they disobey China's will. Just like South Korea, many of these countries rely on the U.S. for security and China for economy. As China becomes more powerful and dominant in the region, it doesn't want this "old routine." It's particularly sensitive about the U.S. staying power and influence. "Economy and security matters are not separate. They are like two wheels of a chariot. They go together. South Korea should choose [between China and the U.S.]," a retired senior Chinese diplomat warned at a meeting in Seoul where this author was also present. In short, the U.S. should be mindful about "the audience effect" of the THAAD. This has been little examined. It's not just about the U.S., South Korea and China. The regional countries here see it as a story of an American ally, who got retaliated by China for hosting an American military asset, and America is doing nothing. America should be aware of the audience cost involved. American nonchalance is eroding its standing in the region and credibility among its allies. It's weakening the American sphere of influence. When Trump visits Seoul next month, one of the things he should do is declare, "When you violate my ally, it is the same as violating me!" Trump will say it in Seoul, but it will be heard in Beijing. And the entire regional audience will watch. Lee Seong-hyon (sunnybbsfs@gmail.com) Ph.D., is a research fellow at the Sejong Institute. Seen above are the feet of female workers at department stores and duty free shops, who suffer from bunions. / Courtesy of Rep. Kim Jong-hoon By Park Jae-hyuk Workers for Chanel and other imported luxury brands revealed their poor working conditions during a National Assembly audit of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy last week. They criticized their companies for forcing them to work nearly 12 hours a day without regular days off. "I work from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays, and work for 12 hours a day on weekends," said Chanel's union head Kim So-yeon, who is working as a Chanel salesclerk at Hyundai Department Store's Apgujeong branch in Seoul. "Due to the long working hours and late closing time, I cannot take care of my child at all." Kim, who has worked at local department stores for 20 years, said she has a nine-year-old child. "Most of my colleagues are feeling difficulties in pregnancy and delivery," she said. "I want the company to allow regular days off at least twice a month." Kim Sung-won, head of Bluebell Korea's union, accused international luxury brands of neglecting the poor labor conditions of salesclerks at local duty free stores. His company distributes luxury products in Korea for global brands, including Louis Vuitton, Dior and Bally. "Airport duty free stores close late at night and open early in the morning, so salesclerks have to go home late at night and come to work early the next morning," he said. "They can sleep only four hours at home." According to Kim, women account for 90 percent of all salesclerks at local duty free stores. They are often urged to wear high heels and tight uniforms. "Many of my colleagues, who are suffering from bunions, cannot go to the hospital, because they have no regular days off," he said. "Some of them face difficulties in pregnancy." In response to their complaints, Minister Paik Un-gyu said, "I feel sorry about this issue. I will figure out whether our ministry can solve the problem." It was not the first time the poor working conditions of luxury brands' employees have come to the fore. An official website of Chanel's union in Korea is full of negative opinions and stories about management. Female workers complain about their skimpy uniforms, as well as small salaries and long working hours. Last year, Chanel Korea was also criticized for integrating its department store and duty free divisions into a single unit, which appears to have caused a mass resignation of employees who were working for its marketing and sales departments. Considering the local unit has enjoyed increases in sales at major department stores here over the past few years, analysts regarded the massive payroll cut as the global headquarters' strategy to overcome its recent slump in global sales. Chanel headquarters declined to disclose regional business performances, but a recent regulatory change is expected to prompt the company to disclose all data beginning next year. Industry officials said each luxury brand manages salesclerks at local department stores and shopping malls. Because department stores and shopping malls are not the employers of the salesclerks, they cannot play a role in days off and other working conditions. The congress is expected to see Xi Jinping elected as party general secretary for a second five-year term By Tony Cheung When the Communist Party's congress kicks off on Wednesday, all eyes may be on the reshuffle of the inner sanctum of the central leadership, however for Hong Kong, all ears will be on a small but significant part of President Xi Jinping's speech. Similar to his predecessor Hu Jintao's report five years ago, the city's role and relevance can be expected to feature prominently in his address. Xi is likely to spell out his expectations for Hong Kong on issues such as economic development and social consensus amid divisions, political watchers predict. They will also look for signs that shed light on what Xi's thinking is on sensitive issues such as sovereignty and national security, given the sudden appearance of pro-independence posters on the city's campuses has revived a long-standing political row. Despite big-picture themes that will guide the address, a crucial personnel issue at the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China could prove a distraction. National People's Congress chairman Zhang Dejiang, the third-ranking leader in the Politburo and top official responsible for Hong Kong and Macau affairs, is expected to step down and the guessing game has begun over who will replace him. The change will come soon after Zhang Xiaoming took over the helm at the State Council's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office while Wang Zhimin succeeded him at Beijing's liaison office in the city. The moves have sparked debate some say fanciful speculation on whether there would be any shifts in Beijing's policy on the city. It's policy not personnel But Tam Yiu-chung, a local delegate to the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the mainland's top political advisory body, doubts that Zhang's successor would mean "any obvious change" towards Hong Kong policy. Beijing-based professor Qi Pengfei, director of Renmin University's research centre on Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, also shrugged off talk of a major policy shift. "Change in personnel would not bring change in the central government's principles and policies on Hong Kong. These principle concerns defending national security and ensuring the city's long-term prosperity and stability," he said. Put more bluntly, personnel will hardly affect policy. Policy has been and will be determined by Xi. So, where does Xi stand on Hong Kong? His messages were well laid out in his speech to the city in July, analysts agreed. The key will be to look out for further advice or slight shifts, they said. The section on Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan affairs may have been pro-forma for all party congress reports since the 15th congress after the city returned to the mainland in 1997 but the key messages for the city have become more detailed in recent years. In 2007, for example, then president Hu said in his report: "We would firmly and unswervingly implement the principles of one country, two systems', Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong' and the high degree of autonomy'". This signalled a new determination to get the "one country, two systems" principles right, observers had said. Then in 2012, at the 18th party congress, Hu said Beijing would "comprehensively and accurately" implement the "one country, two systems" model. These words were later matched with action. Beijing drops a bombshell Almost two years later, in June 2014, the State Council, or cabinet, dropped a bombshell with a 15,500-word white paper on the "accurate" understanding of "one country, two systems". Beijing, it stressed, had comprehensive jurisdiction over Hong Kong. Instead of having full autonomy, the city was only given the power to run its affairs as authorised by the central government. In other words, the autonomy was limited to what Beijing allowed. The paper was issued when Hong Kong was debating political reform to achieve universal suffrage for the chief executive in 2017, as promised by the central government, and when local academics and pan-democrats were planning the Occupy civil disobedience movement to push for democracy. Two months after the white paper, Beijing laid down a stringent framework on Hong Kong's political reform in August 2014. Predictably, the reform package put forth by the local government was rejected by the Legislative Council in June 2015. This time around at the 19th party congress, Professor Lau Siu-kai, vice-chairman of The Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macau Studies, a semi-official think tank, expects "the report would reiterate on the importance of a comprehensive and accurate implementation of the Basic Law and the one country, two systems' principle." The Basic Law is Hong Kong's mini-constitution. Qi, the Beijing-based professor, said given the detailed explanation on the city's future Xi gave when he spoke in Hong Kong in July, "the part on Hong Kong in the report on October 18 will be a highly [condensed] summary of principles". Xi sets the red line All passengers on Beijing's subway network will face tighter security checks from Tuesday. By Jun Mai Beijing has redoubled security on public transport and bars have closed suddenly to "prepare for Halloween" as the capital counts down the last days to the start of the Communist Party's five-yearly national congress. State television said more than 2,000 party delegates from across China have converged on the capital for the meeting, which is due to begin on Wednesday and is expected to go for about a week. Many bars and clubs, most of them in Beijing's nightlife district of Sanlitun, announced they would be closed for about 10 days from this week, with some citing "force majeure" and others promising to reopen in time for Halloween at the end of the month. Among those suspending operations over the period are nightclubs Circle Club and Sir Teen, both in Sanlitun. Vics, another well-known club near the Worker's Stadium, said it would be closed for renovations to prepare for Halloween on October 31. By Sunday night, most major live music venues in the capital had announced a suspension of business between Monday and October 25. San E has become a target of extreme criticism on various online community boards after a recent performance of him alongside Red Velvet's Irene had gone viral. Although San E felt his performance was charming, viewers immediately noticed just how uncomfortable Irene appeared and it is becoming a hot topic. During the 'Ansan Friendship Super Show,' a program dedicated to celebrating the good-natured relationship between South Korea and Vietnam, rapper San E, Red Velvet's Irene and GOT7's Jackson were special MCs for the event. While waiting for the program to begin, a fan-cam captured a rather odd interaction between Irene and San E that viewers deemed inappropriate. View the unsettling clip down below. Fans immediately stated that San E had no manners or respect for Irene and didn't even catch on to how uncomfortable he made her. Viewers pointed out the obvious by saying, "As soon as he put his arm on her, she immediately became shocked and her whole body stiffened including her face. But instead of considering Irene's reaction, he only looked the audience's reactions." What do you think of San E's unnecessary action and Irene's reaction? Stay tuned for more updates. The shocking news was revealed earlier today in Korea as fans were surprised to discover that veteran actor Jo Duk Jae was charged and found guilty of sexually molesting his co-star. The case has been on-going for quite some time, and two years later it as finally come to a conclusive end. In April of 2015, an actress reported that Jo Duk Jae had grabbed her without consent while on set. He initiated the molestation by putting his hands down her pants and even began tearing off her underwear. Despite the issue, Jo Duk Jae stated he was innocent and merely "following the director's orders." Ultimately, he was found guilty on October 13 and was sentenced to 1 year in prison, 2 years of probation, and 40 hours of a sexual violence treatment program. During the trial, the actor still pleaded innocent b saying, "I have a family. How can I shamelessly sexually attack someone when so many staff members are watching me?" He further added, "On the day of the second trial, I immediately submitted an appeal to the Supreme Court. If justice is alive, the Supreme Court will prove my innocence." In response to all that had occurred, the victim expressed her final thoughts saying, "I saw that Jo Duk Jae revealed his own name and came out with his opinion in an interview. I'm taken aback and bitter. He's already received a verdict, but he's saying the court made the wrong judgment? ...He said he'll be filing an appeal. The case will go to the Supreme Court now, and I'll be holding a press conference soon." Colonel Nguyen Anh Dung speaking at the ceremony (Photo: vov.vn) Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary of State for the Minister of Cults and Religion and General Secretary of the National Council of the Solidarity Front for the Development of the Cambodian Motherland Nhem Valy affirmed that the implementation of this project is a practical activity to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries; and continue to consolidate and nurture the traditional friendship between the two peoples. He asserted that the Vietnam-Cambodia Friendship Monument is not only a work to remember the merits of patriotic Cambodian people and Vietnamese volunteer soldiers, who sacrificed themselves for the cause of Cambodian liberation, but it is also the permanent symbol of the friendship and solidarity between the two countries of Vietnam and Cambodia. Speaking at the ceremony, Colonel Nguyen Anh Dung believed that the monument in Koh Kong province would be a witness to the great development of Koh Kong province in the coming time and the traditional friendly relationship, an invaluable asset of the two nations, peoples and armies of the two countries. This is the 9th such monument, which has been restored and embellished under the project of restoration and embellishment of 17 friendship monuments throughout Cambodia funded by Vietnams Ministry of National Defence. This activity is part of the program to mark the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Cambodia diplomatic relations in 2017./. PRESS RELEASE U.S.-South Korean Naval Exercise Underway with Heightened Tension Oct. 16, 2017 (EIRNS)The U.S.-South Korean joint naval exercise is underway somewhere in Korean waters, having begun earlier today. Besides the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Ronald Reagan and two destroyers, two U.S. submarinesthe cruise missile submarine U.S.S. Michigan and the attack submarine U.S.S. Tucsonare both thought to be participating, since they both made high profile visits to South Korean ports last week. The Michigan has the capacity for up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles and its also rumored to have aboard a team of special operators tasked with carrying out "decapitation" operations. And the exercise is characterized as a "Maritime Counter Special Operations Force." In addition to these forces and others already in the region, the carrier U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt departed San Diego on Oct. 6 for the Western Pacific and the Middle East. Its to be joined by two destroyers out of Pearl Harbor. The U.S. military also announced that it would practice evacuating noncombatant Americans out of South Korea in the event of war and other emergencies. The exercise, dubbed Courageous Channel, is scheduled to run from Oct. 23-27. There seems to be concern about being too alarmist about it, since according to the New York Times, the military is trying to assure Americans who wont be participating in the exercise that theyll hardly notice it and that it would be little different in scale from previous such exercises. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, meanwhile, reported to a parliamentary committee, this morning, that it is drawing up an offensive-defense strategy aimed at concluding a military conflict with North Korea within the shortest time possible, reports the Korea Herald. "A war plan designed to enable early neutralization of critical targets, and to win within the shortest possible time within minimum casualties, will be established," the JCS revealed at the audit. The JCS said that as part of the plans, the military will reinforce its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets in order to detect signs of provocation in advance. "Mid and long-range and high-power precision strike capabilities will be secured in order to neutralize the enemys asymmetric warfare capabilities." Can your employer be trusted to manage your retirement fund exclusively for your own benefit? Thats the question raised by a lawsuit recently brought against General Electric Co., stating that the answer is a resounding no. The case, filed Sept. 26 in San Diego federal court, concerns GEs 401(k) plan, one of those defined-contribution plans that have increasingly supplanted traditional pensions for American workers. It alleges that GE managed the plan for its own benefit by loading it with mutual funds owned by its own subsidiary. The funds charged high fees while also underperforming the investment markets, a double-barreled drawback that cost employees millions in potential gains. The lawsuit seeks class-action status to represent about 250,000 employees who were members of the 401(k) from 2011 through mid-2016, when GE sold the investment subsidiary that ran the mutual funds. Advertisement GE selected its proprietary funds not based on their merits as investments, but because these products provided significant revenues and profits to GE. Haskins vs. General Electric Of the retirement plans $28.5 billion in assets as of the end of 2015, the lawsuit asserts, about half was invested in mutual funds. Of the mutual fund assets, about 56% were invested in five GE-owned funds all but one of which underperformed its benchmark investment index. GE profited from this arrangement in two ways, according to the lawsuit. The company pocketed the investment management fees paid by its own employees, and it exploited its employees as a customer base for the funds the 401(k) plan accounted for more than 70% of the ownership of all five funds and 90% of one, an international equity fund. The value that ownership gave the funds contributed to the $485 million GE pocketed when it sold its investment subsidiary, GE Asset Management, to State Street in mid-2016, the lawsuit implies. These factors presented an inevitable conflict of interest in GEs management of the retirement program. GE selected its proprietary funds not based on their merits as investments, the lawsuit states, but because these products provided significant revenues and profits to GE. The employer is a fiduciary to the plan and every man, woman and child in that plan, says Charles Field, the San Diego lawyer who brought the suit. Fiduciary duty is the highest duty known in the law, and its a duty of prudence, loyalty and of the highest good faith. Field also is representing members of a retirement plan at the investment firm Morgan Stanley in a lawsuit filed in federal court in New York. Morgan Stanley has moved to dismiss the case. GE hasnt responded formally in court to the lawsuit. A spokeswoman says the company has no comment on the lawsuit, but added, We intend to fully defend the case. The GE lawsuit underscores a fundamental flaw in the 401(k) system, which offers employees the option to contribute a percentage of their wages into a retirement fund, tax free but leaves the investment options in the hands of employers. Since their introduction in 1979, 401(k) plans and other such defined-contribution arrangements have grown to become the most important source of retirement income for Americans outside of Social Security. Their rise has given employers a rationale to scrap traditional defined-benefit pensions, in which payouts are based on the workers longevity and wage record with an employer. They may be more suitable for workers in an economy in which job-hopping is more common than before, but they also impose market risk on the workers and give them the complicated responsibility of managing large nest eggs without much professional help. The old corporate habit of steering employees to invest in their own stock has faded, but too many 401(k) plans still offer unduly limited options. (Theres a converse problem: Too many choices may confuse participants, discouraging some from investing at all and leading others to make imprudent choices. This is a consequence of asking workers without professional training to manage the risk in their own retirement accounts.) The GE case is one of a string of lawsuits in recent years targeting corporate management of 401(k) plans. Most commonly, the lawsuits allege that companies have allowed excessive fees to be charged to their employees accounts by their hand-picked investment managers, or have loaded the 401(k) choices with self-interested options such as their own proprietary mutual funds or funds owned by crony investment companies. The consequences for employees can be immense. From 2011 through mid-2016, the lawsuit says, a $1-billion investment in Fidelitys Overseas fund would have grown to $1.57 billion. The same investment in GEs International Fund, 90% of which was owned by GEs 401(k), grew to only $1.22 billion, a relative shortfall of more than $300 million. Fidelitys fund wasnt offered to GE workers. This area of employment law was turbocharged by two events in 2015. The first was Lockheed Martins landmark $62-million settlement of allegations that its fund choices imposed excessive fees and that too much of the workers investments were held in low-yielding money market funds operated by State Street Bank & Trust, with which Lockheed had a business relationship. The settlement covered more than 100,000 beneficiaries of the companys $28-billion 401(k) fund. The second event was a ruling by the Supreme Court in a case involving Edison International, the parent of Southern California Edison. The court ruled that a plan sponsors fiduciary responsibility to its workers was ongoing. It wasnt enough to choose investment options once and forget about them; the company had to keep an eye on the options continually and remove those that were underperforming or inappropriate. The decision not only spelled out a companys fiduciary duties under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act in greater detail than before, but effectively eliminated the six-year statute of limitations on filing objections to a plans management. The litigation generally has resulted in improved behavior by companies, Field says. It looks like theres been a change in behavior, he told me. More plans offer a broader combination of actively managed investments and passive investments such as index funds, for example. But there still are some outliers. Litigation dockets suggest that companies that own investment management subsidiaries tend to be a trouble spot. Field says that its not always the case that a companys proprietary investment funds or funds with relatively high fees are bad investments, but when they also underperform the market, there are grounds to ask why theyre on the menu. The GE lawsuit alleges that was manifestly the case with its 401(k) offerings. Its international equity fund, of which 90% was owned by the 401(k) plan, consistently performed worse than more than 70% of competing international stock funds, the lawsuit says. The GE fund suffered massive redemptions from outside investors during these years, according to the lawsuit. GE would likely have had to scour the market to find an offering as poor-performing as the International Fund, it says. However, GE had business and financial incentives to select and maintain the International Fund in the [401(k)] plan. Another underperformer was the GE Strategic Fund, which invested in a balanced mix of stock, bonds and cash. About 75% of the funds assets belonged to GE 401(k) members. The fund returned a cumulative 36.29% gain from 2011 through mid-2016, while its rival Vanguard/Wellington Fund returned 57.71%. Despite that, the GE funds fees were twice those of the Wellington Fund. A prudent fiduciary would not have offered the plans participants the Strategic Fund, the lawsuits says. But GE did just that. Keep up to date with Michael Hiltzik. Follow @hiltzikm on Twitter, see his Facebook page, or email michael.hiltzik@latimes.com. Return to Michael Hiltziks blog. MORE FROM MICHAEL HILTZIK: Two senators announce a bipartisan deal on Obamacare, but dont celebrate yet Colin Kaepernick certainly seems to be the victim of collusion. But can he prove it? Trump doesnt know it, but his attempt to blow up Obamacare could help California and other states Roy Price resigned as the head of Amazon Studios on Tuesday after an allegation that he had sexually harassed a television producer working on one of his shows. Prices departure, confirmed by an Amazon Studios representative, comes less than a week after he was placed on unpaid leave following accusations made by Isa Hackett, an executive producer on the Amazon drama series The Man in the High Castle, that he made lewd remarks and unwanted advances in 2015. Im pleased Amazon is taking steps to address the issues, Hackett said in a statement Tuesday. Advertisement An important conversation has begun about the need to create a culture in our industry which values respect and decency and rejects the abuse of power and dehumanizing treatment of others, she said. This is truly an opportunity to find a better way forward, and ultimately toward a balanced representation of women and minorities in leadership positions. Prices rapid fall from one of Hollywoods fastest-growing studios comes in the midst of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, which has brought to light years of alleged sexual misconduct against women by the producer. While Weinsteins scandal involves more than 30 women who have accused him of harassment and assault, Price faced one accusation of harassment. But Price also faced larger questions from actress Rose McGowan, who accused the studio head on Thursday of ignoring her claims that she had been raped by Weinstein. On her Twitter account, the actress addressed Amazon.com founder and Chief Executive Jeff Bezos, saying: I told the head of your studio that HW raped me. Over & over I said it. He said it hadnt been proven. I said I was the proof. The Price situation differs from the Weinstein scandal in that Price was an employee, not an owner and therefore had less less organizational power and influence on those who might oppose him, said Tom Nunan, a veteran film and TV executive and lecturer at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. Perhaps Price knew this story would not go away and it was best for him to simply do the right thing. Under California and federal law, companies are required to investigate claims of workplace harassment. Hackett reported the incident to Amazon executives, who then engaged an outside investigator to look into her claim. The findings havent been disclosed. With all of Hollywood focused on Weinstein and Price, companies are likely to take prompter action to address sexual harassment claims in order to avoid larger claims, said Eve Wagner, an employment attorney and founding partner of Sauer & Wagner. Amazons leadership crisis comes at a time of tremendous growth for the fledgling movie and TV studio. Since its founding in 2010, it has significantly ramped up production of original content, including the TV series Transparent and last years Oscar-winning movie Manchester by the Sea. Acclaimed filmmakers like Woody Allen, Richard Linklater and Todd Haynes have flocked to Amazon Studios, making it a significant force in the independent film world. Price was widely seen as playing a major role in the studios success. But in an August report by the tech news site the Information and a more detailed story published last week by the Hollywood Reporter last week, Prices behavior was called into question. Hackett told the Hollywood Reporter that the executive made lewd remarks to her during a promotional tour at Comic-Con in San Diego in 2015, including repeatedly propositioning her on a cab ride. Hackett told the trade publication that she rejected Prices advances, telling him that she is a lesbian with a wife and children. The producer is the daughter of Philip K. Dick, the author of the original 1962 novel The Man in the High Castle. Prices resignation isnt likely to impact Amazons commitment to making streaming video available to its subscribers, according to Michael Pachter, managing director of equity research for Wedbush Securities. He estimates the company is spending $4.5 billion this year on video content. Original series and other content are available to Amazon Prime members who spend $99 a year for free shipping from the e-commerce site. Its been a real value enhancer, Pachter said. Amazon is not going to stop doing it. It just means getting a new person in there is going to change the content mix over the next few years. One Amazon show that definitely isnt moving forward is a planned series from Oscar-nominated director David O. Russell that was to star Robert De Niro and Julianne Moore. The untitled project, which was being made in partnership with Weinstein Co., was scrapped last week. Albert Cheng has been named to run Amazon Studios on an interim basis. Cheng was named chief operating officer of Amazon Studios in 2015 after a career at ABC, where he oversaw the networks digital efforts. Prices resignation from Amazon comes the same day that Weinstein stepped down from the board of directors of Weinstein Co. The board also formally ratified its Oct. 8 decision to fire Weinstein from his role as co-chairman. The swift reaction and accountability that came for Roy Price is a good sign, said Shaunna Thomas, co-founder and co-executive director of UltraViolet, the womens advocacy group. It shows there is a cost for treating women badly. The subject of workplace harassment has been the subject of some Amazon shows produced during Prices tenure, including Good Girls Revolt, about a group of female journalists fighting workplace discrimination. Comedian Tig Notaro, whose Amazon series One Mississippi recently depicted a powerful male executive sexually harassing a woman during a business meeting, said every member of her shows all-female writing staff had experienced sexual harassment or assault at some point. It may seem prophetic of us in light of these explosive headlines, but unfortunately too many women have a sexual harassment/assault story and are probably and very sadly not surprised by recent events, Notaro said. Times staff writers Stephen Battaglio and Meredith Blake contributed to this report. david.ng@latimes.com Twitter: @DavidNgLAT meg.james@latimes.com Twitter: @MegJamesLAT UPDATES: 6:15 p.m.: This article was updated with additional context about the Harvey Weinstein scandal and comments from Isa Hackett and others. This article was originally published at 1:35 p.m. No one spoke about walking away from the North American Free Trade Agreement, but such sharp differences have surfaced among negotiators that the U.S., Canada and Mexico agreed to a kind of timeout and are extending talks well into next year. After wrapping up their latest and most contentious round of negotiations Tuesday, top trade officials from the three nations were openly critical of each others positions, acknowledging in a joint statement that new proposals had created significant conceptual gaps between them. Those proposals, made by the U.S., reflect the Trump administrations determination to rewrite NAFTA in ways that it believes would reduce American trade deficits and increase job and manufacturing growth at home. But Canada and Mexico, as well as many American business interests, regard them as protectionist efforts that would undermine the value of the 23-year-old pact and cause serious disruptions to supply chains and regional economic activity. Advertisement The agreement has become very lopsided and needs to be rebalanced, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said, reading a statement after the close of seven emotionally fraught days of meetings in Arlington, Va. Frankly, I am surprised and disappointed by the resistance to change from our negotiating partners. Standing next to him on the stage, Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland strained a smile, then stated that the U.S. had made a series of unconventional proposals that was threatening to turn back the clock on 23 years of collaboration under NAFTA. Mexican Secretary of the Economy Ildefonso Guajardo, reading his own statement, said we all have our limits, and warned against making decisions today that will haunt them tomorrow. After their joint appearance in Washington, Lighthizer, in a separate briefing, told reporters that there has been no discussion or decision on whether the U.S. would pull out of NAFTA. His boss, President Trump, has said several times that the U.S. may need to withdraw from the agreement before it could get a good deal. Trump, however, has not given the required six months notice for withdrawal. And despite the tough words from trade officials, the three parties agreed to take about a month off and resume talks Nov. 17 in Mexico for what would be the fifth round. The three sides had previously scheduled seven rounds of negotiations before Christmas, with the aim of reaching agreement by years end, to avoid the complications of Mexicos presidential elections next summer. But Lighthizer said that was never a hard deadline, and that talks could continue until March. Sounds like theyre not ready to pull the plug yet and thats good news, said William Reinsch, a veteran Washington trade specialist who is a fellow at the Stimson Center think tank. At the same time, he and other analysts and observers of the negotiations remained pessimistic that those differences could be bridged. Right now, Im giving it even odds, said one U.S. observer familiar with the talks, referring to the possibility of their collapse. Speaking on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks and his access, he noted that the U.S. had tabled several issues in this latest round where there is no agreement and where compromise seems elusive. Among the most contentious is a U.S. proposal that would allow NAFTA to expire after five years unless all three countries agree to renew it. Canadian and Mexican officials have privately panned the so-called sunset provision, as has the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, whose leader called it a poison pill proposal that could undo NAFTA because it would insert uncertainty in a pact whose aim is partly to provide stability in commerce. The U.S. also is seeking new rules in the way autos are traded among the three countries. Currently, vehicles that are manufactured with at least 62.5% of contents from any combination of the three countries can be shipped from one NAFTA nation to another without paying duties. The Trump administration has proposed lifting that share to 85% with a new requirement that at least 50% of the content in cars be made in the U.S. for vehicles from Mexico and Canada to enter the U.S. duty-free. Mexican officials have balked at a country-specific rule of origin, as their nation has attracted many auto parts and assembly operations in recent years that employ hundreds of thousands of workers. U.S. auto executives, meanwhile, worry that such stringent rules of origin would be a bureaucratic nightmare to implement and wreck the sophisticated, integrated North American supply chain that has taken decades to develop. Other thorny issues that U.S. officials also pushed across the table in the fourth round included a U.S. proposal to weaken Canadas and Mexicos access to U.S. government procurement contracts and to eliminate a NAFTA chapter that has allowed Mexico and Canada to contest U.S. anti-dumping and government-subsidy tariff decisions by turning to a special panel of judges. The U.S. also is seeking to weaken the right of foreign investors to sue governments where they are operating. Trade analysts said they expected Mexican and Canadian officials to take the U.S. demands back to their governments for consultation before the fifth round, when most of the American proposals may be formally rejected. That could set in motion a period of difficult talks to reach a compromise or, at worse, could open the way for Trump to withdraw from NAFTA, a threat that he has repeatedly made. If they react negatively [to U.S. proposals], it may be enough for the U.S. to say, Enough, were pulling out, Reinsch said. In Mexico and Canada, as well as the U.S., many are taking Trumps threats seriously. Canada and Mexico are likely to take a bigger hit than the U.S., according to a new study by ImpactEcon, a Colorado consulting firm. But the U.S. wont be unscathed either. The report said the U.S., too, would feel a pinch in trade, investment and broader economic growth. A reversal of NAFTA, it said, would cause a loss of 256,000 low-skilled jobs in the U.S. over three to five years. While Mexicans desperately want to keep NAFTA, which has helped transform Mexico into a manufacturing powerhouse and steadily expanded the middle class, they are also making preparations for the possibility of life without it. Over the last year, Mexico has aggressively pursued new or updated trade deals with other countries, seeking new markets for its exports and new partners for imports. Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto traveled to China last month in part to discuss trade, and met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in June about significantly broadening an existing trade agreement with the European Union. Trade with the U.S. could continue without NAFTA. Instead of entering the U.S. duty free, Mexican imports would be subject to tax rates set by the World Trade Organization. That increase probably would be passed on to American consumers at first, but over time could make Mexico a much less desirable place to build factories, experts say. Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal insists his countrys economy be able to adapt if NAFTA is scrapped. But leaders from his ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party are worried that the end of the deal could provoke nationalist sentiment ahead of next years presidential election, giving an added boost to far-left front-runner Andres Manuel Lopez Obrader. Mexican economist and financial analyst Luis Rubio said the greatest danger to Mexico if NAFTA is scrapped is loss of confidence in the nation as a place for investment. The importance of NAFTA [to Mexico] is that its been an anchor of stability, said Rubio, who is based at Mexicos Center for Research for Development, an independent think tank, and Washingtons Wilson Center. The risk if NAFTA is ended wont be seen, at least initially, in foreign trade but in the ability of Mexico to attract foreign investment, and in the preservation of domestic confidence in the economy. NAFTA is the only source of confidence that the Mexican economic world can count on. don.lee@latimes.com Follow me at @dleelatimes Times staff writers Tracy Wilkinson in Washington and Kate Linthicum in Mexico City contributed to this report. UPDATES: 4:50 p.m.: This article was updated with additional reaction and analysis. This article was originally published at 12:05 p.m. The developer of a proposed natural gas power plant in Ventura County asked state regulators Monday to suspend review of the plans, effectively ending the controversial project. In response to regulators recommendation this month to reject the project, NRG Energy asked the California Energy Commission to end all hearings regarding its proposal while the company determines whether it will completely withdraw the application. Energy commission members Janea Scott and Karen Douglas issued a rare statement Oct. 5 recommending that the full regulatory body reject the Puente power project in Oxnard, after an outcry from residents, local officials and state lawmakers. Advertisement The commissioners, who make up a two-member review committee, received hundreds of messages protesting the project as another potential pollution threat to a community already overwhelmed by electricity-generating plants. We hereby notify the parties and interested members of the public that we intend to issue a [decision] that recommends denial of the project on the grounds that it creates inconsistencies with LORS [laws, ordinances, regulations or standards] and significant environmental impacts that cannot be mitigated, Scott and Douglas said. The commissioners recommendation followed Los Angeles Times investigations that showed the state has overbuilt the electricity system, primarily with natural gas plants, and has so much clean energy that it has to shut down some plants while paying other states to take the power California cant use. The overbuilding has added billions of dollars to ratepayers bills in recent years. The 262-megawatt Puente Energy power plant would be owned and operated by NRG, a Houston electricity company. NRG contracted with Southern California Edison to supply power to the utility. After the commission members issued their statement, Edison said the Puente project is needed to help meet demand when older power plants close by 2021: While there are potential solutions to the needs addressed by the Puente project, it is speculative to assume that preferred resources can be developed on the scale and at the cost needed to competitively replace the Puente project by 2021. In August, the California Independent System Operator, which manages the states electric grid, released a report detailing how clean energy sources could serve as alternatives to building the Puente plant but at a higher cost. ivan.penn@latimes.com For more energy news, follow Ivan Penn on Twitter: @ivanlpenn Federal and state officials have launched the first national crackdown on companies that they say gouge student loan borrowers, accusing the companies of taking more than $95 million in illegal fees in recent years and falsely promising debt relief. The Federal Trade Commission, 11 states and the District of Columbia announced Friday that they had filed 36 lawsuits and other legal actions against companies including some in Los Angeles accused of scamming student loan holders. More actions are coming, authorities say. Prosecutors are targeting a growing number of companies that prey on desperate debtors among the 42 million Americans who have borrowed a total of more than $1.4 trillion. Officials in Washington state alone said they are investigating more than 50 companies suspected of operating student loan debt relief scams. Advertisement Winter is coming for debt relief scams that prey on hardworking Americans struggling to pay back their student loans, FTC Acting Chairman Maureen K. Ohlhausen said in a statement Friday. Officials call the crackdown Operation Game of Loans, a play on HBOs hit show Game of Thrones, which made the phrase winter is coming famous. Victimizing borrowers The sweep comes four months after NerdWallet reported that federal regulators were doing little to combat the growing wave of so-called debt relief companies preying on student loan borrowers. Companies can exploit borrowers by charging steep and often illegal upfront fees and recurring monthly amounts. Some scammers persuade borrowers to provide access to their loan accounts, then change their passwords and fail to keep payments current. As a result, borrowers wages are garnished, tax refunds seized or Social Security benefits cut. NerdWallet reported that aside from enforcement actions by a handful of state attorneys general, little was being done. As companies were shut down in one state, they continued operating in the other 49. Before the federal-state crackdown, national authorities the FTC and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau had closed just seven student debt relief companies, although more than 100 have operated in recent years. Several states join fight Of the 36 enforcement actions in the crackdown, seven are by the FTC and 13 are by the attorney generals office in Washington state, the state most aggressively pursuing fraudulent student loan companies. The crackdown includes five new FTC cases, a new judgment in the agencys favor and a preliminary injunction in a case filed earlier this year. The operation includes law enforcement actions by states that have been aggressive in the past -- Florida, Illinois, Oregon and Washington. Others taking part in the sweep are Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Texas and the District of Columbia. The FTC has filed five new cases against 30 defendants. In one, the agency alleged that Los Angeles-based A1 DocPrep Inc. took at least $6 million through student loan and mortgage relief schemes. The agency accused another Los Angeles-based group of companies of bilking at least $7.3 million from struggling student loan holders. Federal courts have backed the FTC in some cases. The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida froze assets of Strategic Student Solutions, a company accused of taking more than $11 million from consumers by falsely promising to reduce student loan debt and to repair customers credit. The FTC uses a variety of sources to find targets, including consumer complaints, suspicious advertisements, emails that consumers submit and referrals from the Better Business Bureau and attorneys general, said Michelle Grajales, an FTC staff attorney working on the A1 DocPrep case. This article was written by staffers at NerdWallet, a personal finance website. The deadliest wildfires in state history have raised questions about whether a repeat culprit might again be to blame for starting or spreading at least some of the Northern California blazes: utility companies and their equipment. The explosive failure of power lines and other electrical equipment has regularly ranked among the top three singular sources of California wildfires for the last several years. In 2015, the last year of reported data, electrical power problems sparked the burning of 149,241 acres more than twice the amount from any other cause. And regulators have hit the states investor-owned utilities with tens of millions of dollars in fines related to wildfires, including $37 million for the 2007 Malibu fire (Southern California Edison); $14.4 million for the Witch, Rice and Guejito fires the same year (San Diego Gas & Electric); and $8.3 million for the September 2015 Butte Fire (Pacific Gas & Electric). Advertisement Investigators have yet to determine what sparked the Northern California fires. But a review of emergency radio traffic recordings found that fire crews were dispatched to at least 10 spots in Sonoma County in response to reports of sparking electrical wires and exploding transformers as high winds pummeled the area on the night of Oct. 8, the San Jose Mercury News reported. The first fires were reported about the same time, the newspaper said. The electrical lines and equipment are owned by Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Spokeswoman Jennifer Robison said the San Francisco utility is focusing on ensuring the safety of those affected by the fires, rather than engaging in debate over the cause before investigators complete their work. There will likely be reviews of these wildfires by the appropriate agencies, but right now we are focused on life safety and service restoration, Robison said. Even the speculation that PG&E might be liable has sent its parent companys stock tumbling. On Monday, PG&E Corp. shares closed at $53.43, down 22% from their closing price Oct. 6, the last trading day before the fires began. The stock regained $4.01 a share Tuesday, closing at $57.44, up 7.5% from the day before. Utility critics blame lax regulation and enforcement for the continuing problem of wildfires caused by power equipment failures. They point to Gov. Jerry Browns decision last year to veto legislation that would have required the California Public Utilities Commission and the state Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, to identify steps that cities must take to prevent fires from overhead electrical equipment. It takes a catastrophe like this to show how bad the problem is, said Jamie Court, president of advocacy organization Consumer Watchdog. Weve seen no comprehensive attempts to change the system because its costly. Mindy Spatt, a spokeswoman for the Utility Reform Network, said her organization has argued at the California Public Utilities Commission for years that the power companies need to give more attention to their equipment, such as ensuring trees are trimmed around power lines to prevent disasters. One question in this case may be whether PG&E properly assessed and responded to the increased risk, Spatt said. Cal Fire spokeswoman Lynne Tolmachoff said it is too early to blame PG&E when the cause remains undetermined. None of its clear right now, Tolmachoff said. Theyre doing their due diligence, making sure the investigation is very thorough. Theres not a quick easy way to determine the cause, she said. After every fire like this, theres all kinds of speculation. To Court and others, the utilities, regulators and government leaders need to do more to ensure public safety, such as ensuring that utility companies are properly managing trees and brush around electrical equipment and maintaining and reinforcing equipment to guard against hazardous conditions. Southern California Edison said in a statement that the utility works with state, county, and local fire agencies to identify areas with high fire risk and takes appropriate steps to improve SCEs vegetation management efforts, establish design and construction standards appropriate for high wind and high fire areas and identify operational practices to reduce fire risk. For example, when red flag warnings are in place and circuits in high fire areas trip, Edison requires a patrol to inspect lines before they are re-energized. SDG&E said it has made significant investments in fire preparedness over the last several years and has modernized infrastructure throughout its service area. That includes replacing thousands of wooden poles with fire-resistant steel poles to reduce the risk of damage to power lines in fire-prone areas. The utility also developed and operates the nations largest utility-owned weather network, with models that provide a fire potential rating, giving a team of meteorologists and local fire agencies valuable information to help develop response strategies in advance of an emergency. In 2013, SCE launched a comprehensive pole load assessment and replacement program to ensure that its 1.4 million poles are strong enough to withstand high winds based on accurate information on attachments from all utilities, including electric, phone, cable television, internet and wireless equipment. This included a thorough meteorological study to update the potential highest wind speeds in every part of the service territory. The assessments were prioritized to address high fire areas first, and these areas will be completed by the end of this year. The remaining poles will be assessed by 2021. Power poles and lines block a street at Brookdale and Aaron Drive in Hidden Valley, where most of the homes were destroyed by fire in Santa Rosa. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times ) Elizaveta Malashenko, director of the PUCs safety and enforcement division, said the concern about fire safety has prompted more funding and personnel for her office. Malashenkos division had been operating with about 10 investigators who, in total, reviewed an average of 120 incidents a year of potential violations by various types of utilities, not just electrical. Now her office is in the process of increasing to about 36 staff members, with two dedicated to fire safety. We do need to grow our capacity in the area of fire prevention, Malashenko said. I think in an area like this, you can never say that youve done enough. There are some limitations to strengthening the electrical system against disasters such as wildfires, said Ted Kury, director of energy studies at the University of Floridas Public Utility Research Center. Kury said utilities could use concrete or metal poles instead of wooden ones but flying debris in a wind storm could still strike a wire and cause it to break loose and ignite a fire. Underground wires also are an option, but every improvement comes with a cost, he said. And depending on the geography in a particular location which is the primary factor in cost underground power lines can range from $200,000 to $300,000 a mile. Kury has seen an extreme case that cost as much as $9 million a mile. Make no mistake, its the customers that spend the money, Kury said. Utilities dont have money. Government doesnt have money. They get their money from the people. Ultimately, Kury said, each area has to determine what is workable for the terrain and resources available based on reviews by regulators. When regulators are typically taking a look at this question, they have a statutory duty all regulators, and this includes the California commission. The basic idea behind it is safe and reliable service at just and reasonable rates. ivan.penn@latimes.com For more energy news, follow Ivan Penn on Twitter: @ivanlpenn ALSO Death toll in wine country fires rises to 41 as driver of water truck dies in rollover accident Firefighters battle blaze near Mt. Wilson Observatory He wouldnt evacuate, then used Facebook Live to broadcast firestorm in his hometown UPDATES: 2:05 p.m.: This article was updated with Tuesdays stock gain. This article was originally published at 5 a.m. The state of California will continue its financial sanctions against Wells Fargo for a second year following a string of new disclosures about bad practices at the bank since its sham accounts scandal unfolded. State Treasurer and gubernatorial candidate John Chiang said Monday that revelations of wrongdoing at multiple business units have undermined confidence in the San Francisco bank, which also has failed to complete necessary reforms. For the record: An earlier version of this report misspelled former Wells Fargo Chief Executive John Stumpfs last name as Stump. The opaque manner with which the bank continues to do business and the frequency of new disclosures of wanton greed and lack of institutional control makes this decision so clear that there really was no choice at all, he said in a statement. Advertisement The sanctions suspend investments by the Treasurers Office in Wells Fargo securities, bar use of the bank as a broker-dealer for the purchase of investments and bar the bank as a managing underwriter for bond sales in which the treasurer has the authority to appoint the underwriter. The measures were imposed in September 2016, just weeks after the bank agreed to a $185-million settlement with regulators for creating millions of unauthorized checking, savings and other accounts. The next month, then-CEO and Chairman John Stumpf was ousted. The practice was traced to an overbearing sales culture documented in a 2013 Los Angeles Times investigation. The bank issued a statement Monday that it has met and exceeded all of Treasurer Chiangs expectations and cited a list of initiatives it has undertaken, including separation of chief executive and chairman positions, and expansion of the companys customer complaint-resolution process. We will continue serving the state and rebuilding trust with Californians as we take steps to become a better bank, regardless of politics, the bank said. Cited by Chiang in making his decision to continue the sanctions were disclosures the bank overcharged veterans in a federal mortgage-refinancing program and charged auto-loan borrowers for insurance they didnt need. He called on federal regulators to expand their inquiry into the bank. In a letter sent Monday to the Wells Fargo board and Chief Executive Tim Sloan, Chiang made several demands that he said must be met before he would retract the sanctions. They included removing remaining board members who had watchdog positions at the time of the accounts scandal and the funding of a study on how Wells Fargo can better serve California communities underserved by banks. A department official estimated last year that the bank earned several million dollars annually in state brokerage and underwriting fees, a mere fraction of the banks annual profit, which totaled $22 billion in 2016. laurence.darmiento@latimes.com There are nearly 30 million people with diabetes in the United States. About 90,000 of them were just thrown a curve ball. Johnson & Johnson announced that its closing its Animas subsidiary and getting out of the insulin-pump business, leaving the field primarily to a single large competitor, Medtronic, which will control roughly 85% of the market. The challenges faced by tens of thousands of J&J customers mirror problems all too common in the healthcare industry the turmoil that can arise when a medical-device or drugmaker halts sales, or when an insurer decides to no longer cover a specific pill, gadget or treatment. Advertisement For patients, this can turn your entire world upside down. Its very frustrating, said Dana Goldman, director of USCs Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics. Patients realize theyre subject to the whims of the market. The J&J announcement hit close to home. Ive been using the companys pump for a decade, since I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes (thats the hereditary or autoimmune kind, as opposed to Type 2, which is far more widespread and is the form of the disease typically associated with obesity). Because insulin pumps cost thousands of dollars, represent a multiyear commitment and literally play a life-or-death role in peoples lives, switching manufacturers isnt a decision you make lightly. And as Ive discovered, its a decision with broader ramifications in todays interconnected, digital world. Which pump works with my blood-glucose sensor? Which one works with my smartphone? Which one works with my Pebble smartwatch? What if I want to upgrade to an Apple Watch? These too are potentially costly and long-term commitments, representing not just healthcare but also technology and lifestyle preferences. I have patients forced to change therapies especially drugs all the time because of issues like this, said James Flory, an assistant professor of healthcare policy and research at Cornell University. Generally, there is not much patients can do except switch to whatever therapy is available and covered. Thats why your first stop when an involuntary medical change arises is your insurer. Get in touch right away and make sure you have options. Its entirely possible that your coverage will limit you to a single alternative, such as a generic drug or a specific medical-device maker. If you do have choices, then its time to do your homework. Does the new drug have known side effects? Are users happy with the various devices available? Start with your doctor or specialist. Ask him or her what they know. Ive had to switch insulins more than once for no better reason than because my insurer got a more profitable deal for itself from a single maker. Online forums such as Reddit can be very helpful in getting a sense of the experiences of others. Obviously youll want to take such anecdotal evidence with a grain of salt, but its interesting to hear what people say. In my case, J&J said its partner of choice is Medtronic, which means its steering its 90,000 customers to the industry leader. Medtronic, the worlds largest stand-alone medical device maker, acquired its Northridge-based MiniMed pump business in 2001 from Los Angeles entrepreneur Alfred Mann for nearly $3.3 billion. Our number one priority is ensuring patients have a seamless experience as they transition to Medtronic, Valerie Asbury, general manager of Animas, said in a statement. Easier said than done. Medtronic wants customers in a closed system where it produces the pump, the glucose meter and the sensor that reads your blood sugar. Once they have you, theoretically they can charge whatever they want. Michael Hill, Medtronics vice president of global marketing, told me the company has no intention of gouging patients. Nor could it, he insisted. Lets say we were going to charge $50,000 for a pump, Hill said. The insurance companies simply wouldnt pay it. Yes, theres less choice today than there was a week ago, he added. But in no way can you say that Medtronic is dictating or controlling the terms of peoples healthcare. OK. But the company has only two competitors left smaller pump makers Tandem Diabetes Care and Insulet. Pharmaceutical giant Roche exited the business earlier this year. Industry watchers say its entirely likely Tandem will be the next to fall. The companys stock plunged 36% on Friday after Tandem announced a 1-for-10 reverse stock split intended to bolster its sagging share price, which is down about 90% this year. Tandems stock tumbled a further 14% on Monday. Theyre running out of money, said David Kliff, who publishes an influential newsletter called Diabetic Investor. If something doesnt change soon, the market will be down to just two companies. And that raises questions about Insulets longevity in trying to compete with the much larger Medtronic, which by then would account for at least 90% of sales. The bottom line is that for all the talk among lawmakers of people taking more personal responsibility for their healthcare, in reality there are precious few real choices. More often than not, patient needs come a distant second to corporate interests, and were left feeling lucky we have any care at all. It seems inevitable Ill be switching to Medtronic after the warranty on my J&J pump expires in coming weeks, and maybe thatll work out just fine. Weve been in this business for decades, Medtronics Hill told me. Were committed to staying in this business. Thats something. David Lazarus column runs Tuesdays and Fridays. He also can be seen daily on KTLA-TV Channel 5 and followed on Twitter @Davidlaz. Send your tips or feedback to david.lazarus@latimes.com. ALSO As California burns, heres what you need to know about fire insurance California doesnt have enough doctors, and this bad law isnt helping Guns, like cigarettes, are legal products that kill people. Thats not OK Lupita Nyongo relates her story of inappropriate Harvey Weinstein encounters Lupita Nyongo with her Oscar after winning Best Actress for 12 Years a Slave at the 86th Annual Academy Awards. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) With stories about women allegedly harassed by Harvey Weinstein surfacing all around her, Oscar winner Lupita Nyongo decided she couldnt keep her own story squashed down any longer. She thought the things that had happened were unique to her, not a larger pattern of what she on Thursday called sinister behavior. She blamed herself for much of it. I had shelved my experience with Harvey far in the recesses of my mind, joining in the conspiracy of silence that has allowed this predator to prowl for so many years, Nyongo wrote in an op-ed for the New York Times. The 12 Years a Slave actress was still at Yale School of Drama when she and Weinstein crossed paths at a 2011 awards ceremony in Berlin, where he was introduced to the then-aspiring actress as the most powerful producer in Hollywood. Dinner companions told her he was a good man to know in the biz, but someone to be careful around because he could be a bully, she wrote. The interactions that followed between her and the producer went back and forth between seemingly appropriate and uncomfortably inappropriate, Nyongo said. The invitation to screen a movie with Weinstein and his children at his Connecticut home turned into a restaurant lunch where he tried to bully her into drinking alcohol, she wrote, followed by him cutting short her viewing of the movie after 15 minutes and taking her to his bedroom where he offered to give her a massage. She said she flipped the situation around. I began to massage his back to buy myself time to figure out how to extricate myself from this undesirable situation, the actress said. Then he wanted to take off his pants, she wrote. He couldnt make it to see a production she was in, but invited her to bring anyone she wanted to see a staged reading of Finding Neverland, one of his. Dinner followed, with her friends relegated to a non-Harvey table. The talk was shop the whole time and Harvey held court with ease. He was charming and funny once more, and I felt confused about the discomfort I had previously experienced, Nyongo said. Lupita Nyongo accepts the supporting actress Academy Award for her work in 12 Years a Slave on March 2, 2014. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) A couple of months later, he invited her to a screening of W.E. followed by a trip to the Tribeca Grill, which she said she assumed would be another group meal. It was not. His assistants, she said, had seemed uncomfortable as they set up the logistics with her. Before the starters arrived, he announced: Lets cut to the chase. I have a private room upstairs where we can have the rest of our meal. I was stunned, Nyongo wrote. I told him I preferred to eat in the restaurant. He told me not to be so naive. If I wanted to be an actress, then I had to be willing to do this sort of thing. He said he had dated Famous Actress X and Y and look where that had gotten them. She declined, and his tone changed, she said. As he escorted her out, sans meal, she checked in with him to make sure they were still good after shed said no. His response, according to the actress: I dont know about your career, but youll be fine, he said. It felt like both a threat and a reassurance at the same time; of what, I couldnt be sure. They didnt cross paths again until the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival, which she was attending in support of 12 Years a Slave. At an after-party, he found me and evicted whoever was sitting next to me to sit beside me, she wrote. He said he couldnt believe how fast I had gotten to where I was, and that he had treated me so badly in the past. He was ashamed of his actions and he promised to respect me moving forward. I said thank you and left it at that. But I made a quiet promise to myself to never ever work with Harvey Weinstein. Our business is complicated because intimacy is part and parcel of our profession; as actors we are paid to do very intimate things in public. Thats why someone can have the audacity to invite you to their home or hotel and you show up. Lupita Nyongo The following year, after her Oscar win, he tried to get her in one of his films, showering her with talk of a star-vehicle film in the offing for her later if shed first take a role in a Weinstein Co. movie shed already turned down. She held firm. When she first met the now-disgraced producer, she wrote, she was entering into a community that Harvey Weinstein had been in, and even shaped, long before I got there. He was one of the first people I met in the industry, and he told me, This is the way it is. And wherever I looked, everyone seemed to be bracing themselves and dealing with him, unchallenged. Since then, she said, she hasnt encountered treatment like that from anyone else. Still, she talked about the often-blurry lines in the workplace known as Hollywood. Our business is complicated because intimacy is part and parcel of our profession; as actors we are paid to do very intimate things in public, wrote Nyongo, who is now 34. Thats why someone can have the audacity to invite you to their home or hotel and you show up. Precisely because of this we must stay vigilant and ensure that the professional intimacy is not abused. Ukraine is negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the formula of calculating gas prices for domestic consumers before the complete liberalization of the market, Ukraine's Minister of Finance Oleksandr Danyliuk has said. "We need to find a formula that will determine the price of gas for the period until the full liberalization of the market. And now we are working on it. I do not think that it will take us much time," Danyliuk said during a briefing in Washington on Sunday after a meeting with the IMF leadership the day before. According to him, neither the Ukrainian side nor the IMF insists on a certain formula for calculation. "We have one key principle in the program that prices should be at the level of import parity. This means that the prices at which gas is sold in Ukraine should meet the prices for gas that is imported to Ukraine. Therefore we are looking at the price of gas imported to Ukraine and not any benchmark, such as an exchange, and we accept it as a base. This is an import parity," the minister explained. "How to calculate this, what it will lead to is now in work. But the key is to fix this principle so that we do not go in the wrong direction, and here we have full mutual understanding with the IMF," Danyliuk summed up. Movies Oct. 17, 2017, 3:45 p.m. Canadian actress Larissa Gomes alleges Harvey Weinstein sexually harassed her (Lilly Lawrence / Getty Images) A Canadian actress added her voice to the chorus of women bringing allegations against Harvey Weinstein, saying the producer asked her to bare her chest and tried to kiss her on the lips while name-dropping famous actresses and dangling career opportunities. Larissa Gomes was a 21-year-old actress about 17 years ago when she was working on the Toronto set of Get Over It, a Miramax-produced teen flick, she wrote in an account emailed to The Times this week. Weinstein approached her and asked for her opinion about the production, and mentioned multiple films his company shoots in Canada each year. I had literally just began acting and here I was meeting the most powerful producer of the time, she wrote. It was intoxicating, it was validating. Gomes, who has since appeared in the film Saw VI and television shows Supernatural and La Femme Nikita, said Weinstein asked her for her personal number through an assistant, then set up a breakfast meeting at his hotel. The first meeting was professional, after which he asked to meet again in his hotel room, this time in the early evening, Gomes said. After plopping down a stack of scripts in front of her that he said he wanted her to read, he went into his bedroom and asked her to come in, she recounted. Weinstein was on his bed, saying he had a headache, she said. He asked her to lie down with him and asked her to take her shirt off so he could see her breasts, Gomes said. She left the room, and he followed in a bathrobe and started massaging her shoulders and neck despite her saying she didnt want it, Gomes said. He would not stop. He just kept pushing his hands close to my chest forcefully until I finally was able to get up and away from him, she wrote. Weinstein told her, You know, Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd were exactly where you are at one point. Look at them now, Gomes recounted. Gomes said she made an excuse to leave at that point, and Weinstein, at the door, grabbed her and tried to kiss her on the lips. She said she turned her head, and he sneered. She never saw or spoke to him again. I was silent I wasnt even sure if this was considered assault, in my mind I thought that since I got away then it isnt, she wrote. I was very young and vulnerable, and that was what he was banking on. In an interview, Gomes said she never got over her encounter with Weintein. I was so incredibly discouraged and disillusioned. I didnt know if I wanted to be a part of the industry any more if this is what it was, she said. This was definitely...something Id never forget. More than 30 women have alleged they were sexually harassed or assaulted by Weinstein. The disgraced mogul has expressed remorse about his behavior but has denied having nonconsensual sex with women. Marikoko boutique in Leimert Park is a testament to how impromptu action and conscious planning can powerfully intersect. The experience that catalyzed the store, which quietly opened earlier this year, happened on a whim. Owner Mariko McKittrick and her mother, Akiko Yamaguchi, decided to go to Morocco in July 2015. Not long before they left Los Angeles, the two bought a modest commercial building on Vernon Avenue east of Crenshaw. (McKittrick grew up in L.A. after having been born in her mother's native country of Japan.) "We had no intention of owning a store," said McKittrick, who also works as a real estate agent. But they did have broader goals. "If we were going to invest in a community, we want it to matter to us," she explained, recalling how as a Venice High School and UC Berkeley student she would visit friends in the creative and historic pocket of South L.A. "When I came back, the shift was the art community," most prominently Mark Bradford's Art + Practice organization. Some of the items on Marikokos shelves. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) While McKittrick and her mother were traveling, the tenant in the space that would become Marikoko gave notice to leave. (The former attorney and accountant's offices next door were already vacant.) Meanwhile, McKittrick was in possession of rugs and other goods from her first and subsequent trips to Morocco that, in sum, were more substantial than your average souvenir haul. "Put the rugs in the store," Yamaguchi suddenly suggested to her daughter one day. She unwittingly created what would become the Marikoko shop in the commercial property they had bought. "It happened spontaneously and organically," McKittrick said. While her daughter resettled in L.A., Yamaguchi wound up staying in Morocco for almost a year. They settled on Marikoko for their retail project's identity, thereby combining both their names Yamaguchi's oft-used nickname is "Koko" and reflecting their shared journey. "The shop is an ode to our trip and wanderlust that inspired my mom," McKittrick noted. It's also part of "a double concept," with a cafe that will be called Izzi, currently under construction in the other half of the building. ("Izzi" means here in Amharic.) "There's an element of discovery when you get here. It's a true destination," McKittrick said, which helps explain the lack of signage. A few of the home goods and vintage finds at Marikoko. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) An edited inventory, muted color palette and soft surfaces make for Marikoko's calm and welcoming atmosphere; it's a vibe that's informed by the owners' shared sensibility and the hospitable environments they encountered in Morocco. McKittrick designed a custom interior doorway to evoke Moroccan architecture too. The selection of home goods, vintage finds, clothing, apothecary items and handmade accessories reflects multiple goals. Marikoko is, in part, a love letter to Morocco and an effort to support female designers, artists and makers and women of color in particular. McKittrick works with L.A. ceramicist Kim Hau on Japanese-inspired dishes and other clay wares. She stocks the Palatines, designer Jessica Taft Langdon's buzzy L.A.-based modern shoe line, along with Marikoko label custom macrame sandals and oversized tote bags made in Morocco. Candles are from Brooklyn's Hi Wildflower Botanica, in large part because the company founder is a writer and novelist, so "I fell in love with her descriptions," McKittrick said. In addition to functioning as a place of commerce, McKittrick wants Marikoko to be a neighborhood venue where "people can hang out." And they do. Collaborations have included a popup event with Here Now Us, a network of African American female entrepreneurs, as well as meditation workshops. "This space is begging to be used," she said. Marikoko Where: 3123 W. Vernon Ave., Leimert Park Hours: 1-6 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays. By appointment on Sundays. Home@latimes.com For an easy way to follow the L.A. scene, bookmark L.A. at Home and join us on our Facebook page for home design, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. ALSO: Instagram-friendly Jungalow design guru says home decor should make you feel good Leather crafters showcase their blend of past and present in vintage studio space More Southern California home tours Sex crimes detectives in New York and London are investigating allegations from at least five women who say they were raped or sexually assaulted by movie producer Harvey Weinstein, but so far no police reports have been filed in Los Angeles. Two sources not authorized to discuss the inquiries said the New York Police Department has opened an investigation into a 2004 allegation of forced oral copulation and is reexamining a more recent accusation of sexual groping that was previously rejected by prosecutors. Since the New York Times first published allegations against Weinstein less than two weeks ago, dozens of women have publicly accused him of sexual misconduct ranging from harassment to rape. Advertisement The new investigation, which launched last week, involves a then-college students allegation that Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him in his Miramax office. Lucia Evans told the New Yorker that he assaulted her during a meeting in 2004. New York police detectives have sought out the alleged victim, but because the case is old, it can be charged only if physical force was used and the crime was deemed aggravated. There is no statute of limitation in New York for a first-degree criminal sex act. The second case in New York involves model Ambra Battilana-Gutierrez, who reported the incident to police in March 2015. She cooperated with an undercover sting operation and in a secret recording obtained by the New Yorker, Weinstein appeared to acknowledge touching her breasts. Manhattan Dist. Atty. Cyrus R. Vance declined to file charges in the case. In a statement last week, Vance called the acts sickening but noted it was not a provable case. Weinstein has unequivocally denied any allegations of nonconsensual sex, his representative Sallie Hofmeister said. In Britain, investigators are looking into an alleged attack in the 1980s and others in 1992, 2010 and 2011, authorities said. One case being investigated by Londons Metropolitan Police involves British soap opera actress Lysette Anthony, who filed a formal crime report in London on Wednesday, alleging that she was raped by the movie mogul at her London home in late 1980s. Anthony tweeted about reporting the incident to police and even provided a photo with the case number. Truth will always out, she wrote, and included a link to the British Sunday Times in which she detailed the incident. She said she answered the door of her London home, and Weinstein attacked her. He pushed me inside and rammed me up against the coat rack in my tiny hall and started fumbling at my gown. Lysette Anthony He pushed me inside and rammed me up against the coat rack in my tiny hall and started fumbling at my gown, she told the newspaper. He was trying to kiss me and shove inside me. It was disgusting. Finally, I just gave up, Anthony said. At least I was able to stop him kissing me. Anthony, sources said, also continued to remain friendly with Weinstein after her alleged rape for a decade as documented in photos, videos and communications between the pair. She also later married director David Price, who has produced movies for both Miramax and Weinstein Co. The couple divorced in 2003. Price told the Los Angeles Times that Anthony told me about the rape in the 1980s with exactly the same description but never said it was Harvey Weinstein. Price said he worked with Weinsteins Miramax and Weinstein Cos. over the years, starting with Children of the Corn II. But Price said that during their marriage Anthony never said anything to him about Weinstein. We would see Harvey at parties, Price said, noting he only met Weinstein a handful of times, usually to talk about film or TV projects. Price said he suspects Anthony did not say anything because she feared he would confront the mogul. On Saturday, a second woman came forward to police and alleged that she was sexually assaulted by Weinstein in Westminster in 2010 and 2011, and in Camden in 2015. Over the weekend, a third woman alleged an assault in London in 1992. In Los Angeles, where Weinstein spent considerable time, neither the Los Angeles Police Department, Beverly Hills Police Department, L.A. County Sheriffs Department or the district attorneys office has any active cases involving Weinstein. However, they said they would look into any cases brought to their attention. We absolutely encourage anyone who may be a victim of sexual assault to come forward and report the crime, said Josh Rubenstein, LAPD director of communications. Sources familiar with Weinsteins defense said that the New York allegation from 2004 is outside the statute of limitations because it lacks the physical force necessary to make it a first-degree crime that has no time restraints. The problems could extend beyond Weinstein and to his company. Under New York and California laws, Weinstein Co. could be vulnerable to civil lawsuits because firms are considered strictly liable for sexual harassment by managers. Some people have alleged that the board members knew about Weinsteins sexual misconduct, which could make them even more vulnerable to litigation, legal experts said. richard.winton@latimes.com Twitter: @lacrimes ALSO: Harvey Weinstein went from power player to pariah in less than a week. Heres how it happened Weinstein Co. in sale negotiations to stabilize the companys current operations How Trumps election and Weinsteins fall signal warp speed on taking sexual harassment seriously UPDATES: 1:06 p.m., Oct. 17.: This article was updated with comments from David Price. This article was originally published on Oct. 16 at 5:50 p.m. In an about-face, the federal government has given Cadiz Inc. the go-ahead to lay a pipeline for its proposed desert water project in an existing railroad right-of-way. The decision by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management follows other Trump administration moves to eliminate a legal hurdle erected in the companys path when President Obama was in office. For the record: An earlier version of this article reported that Cadiz Inc. lobbied the Interior Department to rescind the 2011 legal opinion that had underpinned its decision in 2015 to deny Cadiz permission to use a railroad right-of-way for its water pipeline. Cadiz lobbied the department to rescind the 2015 ruling. In 2015, the BLM said Cadiz couldnt use the right-of-way and would have to obtain federal permission to run the 43-mile pipeline across surrounding federal land. That would have triggered a lengthy environmental review that could have imposed new restrictions on Cadizs plans to pump groundwater from its desert holdings 200 miles east of Los Angeles and sell it to Southland communities. Advertisement The project has been approved under state environmental law, but Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and public lands advocates long have fought Cadiz, arguing that the groundwater pumping would deplete the local aquifer and harm the fragile desert ecosystem in nearby wilderness areas. Following the BLMs 2015 ruling, the company founded by investor Keith Brackpool enlisted support from 18 members of Congress and lobbied the Interior Department to rescind it. Last month the agencys solicitors office withdrew the 2011 legal opinion that underpinned the denial, clearing the way for the BLM to make a 180-degree turn on the question of whether the water pipeline furthered a railroad purpose and could therefore be built on the right-of-way granted by the federal government under an 1875 law. In a letter Friday to Cadizs chief executive, the BLMs acting director in Washington wrote that after further review of the relevant law, his agency concluded that the Arizona and California Railroad could let Cadiz use the right-of-way without BLM authorization. The company is very pleased to receive this letter from the BLM, Scott Slater, Cadiz president and chief executive CEO, said in a statement. We have long maintained that the 2015 evaluation by BLM was wrong on the law, wrong on the facts and inconsistent with the policy driving co-location of infrastructure in existing rights-of-way. But opponents are likely to challenge BLMs latest decision in court. The BLM is not the first or last word on the federal law that governs railroad rights-of-way, said attorney Adam Keats, who has challenged the project on behalf of nonprofit groups. The courts are, he said. And the courts have already interpreted the law in a way that is completely contrary to this new alternate perspective by the Trump administration. Even with the BLM ruling, Cadizs pipeline faces another challenge. The California lands commission recently informed the company that the right-of-way crosses a 200-foot-wide strip of state land meaning that to use it, Cadiz will need a lease from the state. bettina.boxall@latimes.com Twitter: @boxall An SUV crashed into the Discovery Cube in Los Angeles on Monday afternoon after the driver was fatally shot, police said. Authorities are looking for the shooter, who opened fire from a white truck and fled on Glenoaks Boulevard, said Officer Sal Ramirez, a spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department. Its unclear what led to the shooting. The wounded driver, a 25-year-old man, crashed into the childrens museum and died at the scene. No one else was injured. Advertisement The shooting occurred about 2:30 p.m. at 11800 Foothill Boulevard in the Sylmar neighborhood. This post will be updated as more information becomes available. alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com Twitter: @AleneTchek With the wine country gripped by the deadliest string of wildfires in California history, residents of the Berryessa Highlands in Napa County have struggled to get real-time information about their small hamlet. Theyve come to rely on Evan Kilkus. While many heeded the evacuation order as the Atlas Peak fire swept through, Kilkus, 34, refused to leave. Instead, he turned into a one-man news team for his neighbors. Using Facebook Live, he streamed real-time video of the flames from atop a ridgeline accessible from his fathers property. For seven days, he narrated and posted videos, providing context and updates to residents on edge about the fate of their homes. Advertisement And because he had stayed behind, his responsibilities grew. He began feeding others pets dogs, chickens, birds, cats and keeping an eye on them. He also cleared brush from around his fathers property. But the news is his top priority. Kilkus and his father, Peter Kilkus, run the Lake Berryessa News, which touts itself as the only news source covering the tiny communities along the lake. Without the Lake Berryessa News there would be no Lake Berryessa news! is the news outlets mantra. His posts have attracted hundreds of views. That doesnt sound like many, but for the Berryessa Highlands community, which Kilkus says numbers about 700 people, its a large percentage of the population. For Kilkus, its a simple but vital mission. At the Lake Berryessa News, this is what we do. We get all the important information and we provide it, he said. Residents have been making their gratitude known. You are the only info we get, one resident commented on a Facebook live stream. Your liveposts have been a godsend to all of us out here, wrote another. Cynthia Marshall who says shes a neighbor of Kilkus and his father despite living a mile away so appreciated Kilkus reporting and other assistance that she launched a GoFundMe campaign to help with the costs of producing the news. When things are going on like a fire, thats when the neighborhood appreciates Evan, Marshall said. When the donations started coming in Kilkus says its reached about $4,000 he decided to rededicate the funds to people who lost homes to the fire and to local volunteer firefighting groups. Without the Lake Berryessa News, all these other news agencies would have taken hours to get the information out there, Kilkus said. Ive gotten lots of comments from people expressing a tremendous amount of gratitude because they want to know if their home is still going to be here when they get back. Kilkus was quick to say the real heroes were the firefighters who confronted the blaze and made sure the lakeside community didnt burn to the ground. Im just the media guy and happen to tough it out, he said. Just like other reporters sometimes have to tough it out in a hurricane. ***** About 30 miles west, Josh Blakely was among a few dozen holdouts who defied evacuation orders in Calistoga as the Tubbs fire raged for eight days. Instead of fleeing, the 46-year-old fifth-generation Calistogan helped tend to his neighbors homes. He fed and watered their horses and sheep, refilled generators with fuel and motored up and down the hillsides snapping photos of their properties. Using unguarded back roads for stealth, Blakely hauled cases of beer from the bar he owns to his home. Then, in the middle of the night, he dropped 12-packs on the front doorsteps of others who refused to leave. When his neighbors would find them, theyd shoot him a text: I got a visit from the beer ferry! Frank Kibbish, 38, and Josh Blakely, 46. (Joseph Serna / Los Angeles Times ) Blakely was among the most reliable sources for neighbors agonizing over whether their homes were still standing. Some of the properties deep in the forest in Sonoma County didnt make it. Blakely was the one to tell them. On Monday night, a day after residents were allowed to go home, Blakely and his business partner, Frank Kibbish, hosted a welcome home party at their bar. ***** Earlier Monday, 40 Sonoma County community leaders and policymakers faced each other in a back room of a Farm Bureau office not far from where firefighters were finally turning the corner against an epidemic of fires that, despite cooler weather and reinforcements, continued to threaten homes and vineyards. They were gathered to assess their wounds after, as Santa Rosa attorney Eric Koenigshofer put it, a fire-breathing dragon devoured our homes and livelihoods. It was a time for hugs and tears, he said, and to start the process of developing a recovery strategy to erase the fires scars. Lawmakers and business leaders agreed on at least one thing as Santa Rosa looks to rebuild: Find ways to cut red tape in processing building permits and meeting certain environmental restrictions to restore the heart of a region whose vineyards, redwood forests and 19th-century California architecture make it as distinctive in its way as Tuscany in Italy and the Rhone Valley in France. There were also concerns about potentially toxic ash polluting streams and wetlands, and reports of least three incidents of suspected arson over the last week. There were other discordant notes amid the general mood of beleaguered optimism. Amid such heartbreaking images of Sonoma County going out around the world right now are lots of hotels, wineries and shops that were not affected at all and need all the support they can get, said Karissa Kruze, president of Sonoma County Winegrowers. Already, she said, tourists have been canceling trips theyd planned through January. One way the world can help us through this crises is go out and buy a bottle of our wine and have a sip for Sonoma. adam.elmahrek@latimes.com louis.sahagun@latimes.com joseph.serna@latimes.com Times staff writer Alene Tchekmedyian contributed to this report. ALSO Firefighters continue to gain ground on deadly Northern California blazes Death toll rises in wine country as some return to devastated communities As evacuations are lifted in Calistoga, some remain on edge: Were still not not out of the woods Authorities say two adult bodies were locked in an embrace when they were discovered in Joshua Tree National Park, near the area where a missing Southern California couple vanished while hiking three months ago. Jodi Miller, spokeswoman for the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department, said Tuesday that officials have yet to identify the remains found over the weekend in the desert park. Miller says the bodies were embracing when searchers came upon them. Gilbert Orbeso, who was with the search party when the discovery was made, told KESQ-TV that the bodies are those of his 21-year-old son, Joseph Orbeso, and Josephs 20-year-old girlfriend, Rachel Nguyen. Advertisement The couple were reported missing July 28, after they failed to check out of their accommodations near the park. ALSO Man believes bodies in Joshua Tree National Park are those of son, girlfriend Canyon 2 fire 100% contained, but authorities still searching for inmate firefighter who walked away Robin Abcarian: They survived six hours in a pool as a wildfire burned their neighborhood to the ground Officials were contending with new fires in Northern California on Tuesday as progress continued on the blazes that have ravaged wine country. Five firefighters were injured in a fast-moving wildfire in the Santa Cruz Mountains, one of several wildfires burning across California. The Bear fire in Boulder Creek had burned more than 150 acres Tuesday and was 5% contained, officials said. About 150 people have been evacuated. To the north in Sausalito, firefighters battled two small vegetation fires near the 101 Freeway. The Marin County sheriff urged people living near the fires to evacuate but eventually lifted that order. Advertisement The southbound 101 Freeway was closed temporarily in the community of Marin City, according to the Mill Valley Police Department. The California Highway Patrol warned of delays on the freeway. A third brush fire was reported in the East Bay city of Dublin. The city urged residents to stay away from the area. A shelter in place order was issued for the Dublin Ranch area. Alameda County fire officials said the blaze had burned 100 acres but 75% contained. Elsewhere in the state, authorities evacuated at least a dozen people from Mt. Wilson on Tuesday morning, as a 30-acre wildfire burning in the San Gabriel Mountains threatened to damage the historic mountaintop observatory and an array of television broadcast towers, according to officials. Meanwhile in wine country, more people returned to their homes on Tuesday. Officials continued the search for dozens of missing people, and fire crews gained additional ground on the deadly blazes that have scorched more than 210,000 acres and killed at least 41. The four largest fires there were all more than 50% contained as of Tuesday morning. The 52,894-acre Nuns fire, which gave firefighters the most trouble over the weekend, was 68% contained. Crews made progress against the two parts of the fire closest to the cities of Sonoma and Santa Rosa, officials told firefighters at a morning briefing at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. Some parts of the area remained evacuated. Today and the next few days, theres a lot less smoke in the air and a lot less media attention here, but the jobs not done, said Steve Crawford, operations section chief for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Fire in Dublin hills. Too close to homes. Not looking good. pic.twitter.com/gSAFg9cnAF Anil DCosta (@dcostaanil) October 17, 2017 ALSO Death toll rises to 42 as containment increases in Northern California fires Firefighters face rough terrain as they battle Mt. Wilson blaze These are some of the victims of the Northern California firestorm UPDATES: 6 p.m.: Updated with Dublin details. 4 p.m.: The article was updated with Dublin fire acreage. 3:35 p.m.: This article was updated with details about the Dublin fire. 2 p.m.: This article was updated with freeway status. 1:31 p.m.: This article was updated with new details in Marin County. 1:10 p.m.: This article was updated with news about a new fire in Sausalito. This article was originally published at 12:35 p.m. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine plans to increase the amount of financing of the healthcare system by UAH 25 billion over three years, Acting Minister of Health Ulyna Suprun said on the air of Channel 5 last Friday. "Within the next three years, the Cabinet of Ministers plans to increase the financing of the healthcare system by UAH 25 billion," she said. Suprun also noted that according to the government bill on medical reform, by 2020 the amount of spending on the healthcare system will be increased to 5% of GDP. Earlier, Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said the draft state budget for 2018 envisages an increase in the financing of the healthcare system by UAH 11 billion to UAH 112.5 billion. John Dunsworth, the Canadian actor best known for his role as an alcoholic trailer park supervisor in the Netflix comedy series Trailer Park Boys, has died. His daughter, Sarah Dunsworth, announced his death on Twitter on Monday, saying in a statement that her father died peacefully after a short and unexpected illness. He was 71. She didnt say where or when Dunsworth died. We're in shock and heartbroken by the sudden loss of our dear friend John Dunsworth. We respect the family's wishes for privacy at this time Trailer Park Boys (@trailerparkboys) October 16, 2017 Advertisement Ryan Cameron, a spokesman for the actor, told the Associated Press that he was heartbroken and will miss him dearly. Dunsworth played Mr. Lahey on Trailer Park Boys, which developed a cult following during its initial run on Canadas Showcase from 2001 to 2007 before being revived by Netflix in 2014. Dunsworth also had a recurring role as Dave Teagues for several seasons on the SyFy and Showcase series Haven. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl made a last-minute argument Tuesday that President Trump has reaffirmed his criticism of the soldier preventing him from receiving a fair sentence on charges he endangered comrades in Afghanistan. Lawyers for Bergdahl, who pleaded guilty this week to charges that could send him to prison for life, cited a news conference this week in which Trump indicated he stood by his campaign-trail criticism of Bergdahl. The attorneys asked to have the case dismissed. While running for president, Trump repeatedly called Bergdahl a traitor and suggested harsh punishments. Advertisement Asked about the Bergdahl case Monday, Trump first said he wouldnt comment. Then he added: But I think people have heard my comments in the past. Bergdahls lawyers say the remark is especially problematic now that Trump is commander in chief. President Trump stands at the pinnacle of an unbroken chain of command that includes key participants in the remaining critical steps of the case, the defense wrote. The judge overseeing the case, Army Col. Jeffery R. Nance, previously called Trumps campaign statements about Bergdahl disturbing and disappointing, but ruled they didnt amount to unlawful command influence. The judges February ruling noted that Trumps disparaging comments were made before he was president. Nance wrote that the statements of a private citizen, even if running for President, cannot be unlawful command or influence. The judge told the defense that they could renew their motion if there were new developments surrounding Trump. White House media staff didnt immediately respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday. Bergdahl, whos from Hailey, Idaho, pleaded guilty Monday to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy for walking off his remote post in Afghanistan in 2009. He was captured and held by the Taliban and its allies for five years. Bergdahl admitted guilt without striking a deal with prosecutors to limit his sentence, meaning that his punishment has been left up to Nance. The soldier faces up to life in prison at his sentencing, which starts next week. President Obama brought Bergdahl home in 2014 in a swap for five Taliban prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, saying the U.S. does not leave its service members on the battlefield. Republicans roundly criticized Obama, and Trump went further while campaigning for president, repeatedly calling Bergdahl a dirty, rotten traitor who deserved to be executed by firing squad or thrown out of a plane without a parachute. Bergdahl, 31, has said he walked away from his post with the intention of reaching other commanders and drawing attention to what he saw as problems in his unit. The mystery is over: Las Vegas security guard Jesus Campos has been found. On the set of Ellen. On Wednesday, Ellen DeGeneres television talk show is expected to broadcast the much-anticipated first interview with the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino security guard, who was the first shooting victim in the Oct. 1 massacre in Las Vegas. DeGeneres tweeted a photo of Campos holding a cane on the set Tuesday alongside maintenance engineer Stephen Schuck, who was also shot at by the gunman on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel. Advertisement Tomorrow, the first people to encounter the Las Vegas shooter are here security guard Jesus Campos and building engineer Stephen Schuck. pic.twitter.com/dDmjzN6xBx Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) October 18, 2017 The news ended five days of speculation over the whereabouts of the security guard, who was shot as he passed outside gunman Stephen Paddocks hotel room and who holds important information on who knew what and when as the shooting rampage got underway. Reporters had been looking for Campos to help explain what happened in the moments before Paddock began firing at the crowd assembled for a country music festival opposite the hotel and how long it took for police to respond. Shifting timelines given by police and near-total silence from Mandalay Bays owners have left Campos as one of the only potential sources of first-hand information on how the shooting rampage unfolded and how the hotel responded. In a recording of his appearance on Ellen, Campos, who said he was doing better each day, slowly but surely, confirmed he had called in when he was shot before the full rampage began. But he gave few other details that would answer nagging questions about the response of hotel security and Las Vegas police. Appearing in a gray suit and with a cane, Campos said he got an alert for an open door on the 32nd floor. He went up a stairwell from the 31st to the 32nd floor, but the stairwell door was blocked apparently by the gunman so he had to take another route to get to the floor. When he got onto the 32nd floor and reached the stairwell door which was inside a small room with two doors that separates the stairwell from the hallway, immediately adjacent to Paddocks suite Campos found a metal bracket blocking the door to the stairwell. He said he called security dispatch to transfer his call to the buildings engineers, who sent an engineer to examine the door. At that time I heard what I assumed was drilling sounds, Campos said. (Officials have said that Paddock appeared to be drilling into a wall inside his room for unknown reasons.) As Campos walked down the hall, away from Paddocks suite, the outer door of the access room, which was unblocked, closed loudly behind him. I believe thats what caught the shooters attention, Campos said. As I was walking down, I heard rapid fire, and at first I took cover. The gunman was shooting through the door of his hotel suite. I dont know how he was shooting. Campos felt a burning sensation and went to lift his pant leg up and, seeing blood, realized hed been shot. Thats when I called it in on my radio that shots had been fired, Campos said. I was going to say that I was hit, but I got on my cellphone just to clear that radio traffic for they can coordinate the rest of the call. Engineer Schuck, responding to Campos earlier call about a blocked door, arrived on a service elevator from a higher floor, and he spotted Campos at the end of a hallway. It was quiet as Schuck walked toward Paddocks end of the hallway. Then he saw Campos and heard gunshots. At the time I didnt know it was shooting; I thought it was a jackhammer, Schuck said. Campos said take cover, take cover, Schuck said. Within milliseconds, if he didnt say that, I would have got hit.... They were passing behind my head, and I could feel pressure. One female guest came out of her room, and Campos told her to take cover in her room. Campos thanked the first responders and the community for their work during their darkest hour. DeGeneres hinted that Campos would not be giving any more interviews after appearing on her show, but that the appearance was unpaid. Youre talking about it now and youre not going to talk about it again, DeGeneres said, adding, We of course wanted to give you money, and you both were very, very specific. You said you dont want money, you dont want money at all, so youre not getting any money. Speculation about Campos whereabouts had begun after he mysteriously left a Las Vegas hotel room Thursday where he was preparing for televised interviews on the Sean Hannity show on Fox, as well as news shows on CNN, CBS, ABC and NBC. No interviews took place. David Hickey, president of the Security, Police and Fire Professionals of America union that represents the security guards at Mandalay Bay, told The Times that he was attending a meeting with MGM representatives in one room of the suite as Campos waited with a security guard hired by MGM and another union member in the living room. When the meeting ended about 2 p.m., Hickey said Campos no longer was in the room. When I got in touch with the other union member, I was told Campos was taken to the Quick Care health clinic, Hickey said. Hickey didnt hear from the guard afterward and announced to a scrum of reporters that night that Campos had canceled interviews. Campos didnt contact his union in the days after he walked away. The company that owns the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino issued a statement Tuesday that implied it was in touch with Campos as questions mounted over the Las Vegas casinos response to the mass shooting. Jesus Campos wants to tell his story at a time and place of his choosing, Debra DeShong, a spokeswoman for MGM Resorts International, said in a statement after the Los Angeles Times requested an interview with him. Hes asked that everyone respect his request for privacy. We could not be more proud of Jesus. Las Vegas police initially stated that Paddock shot Campos through the door of his hotel suite on the 32nd floor midway through his attack on the concert, essentially crediting Campos with turning Paddocks attention away from the Route 91 Harvest country music festival across the street. But police later said that Campos was shot six minutes before the attack began, and then officials changed their story again, stating that Campos was shot moments before Paddock began his attack on the concert. Police and casino officials have said that Campos promptly reported the gunman to hotel security and that police officers and armed security responded immediately to the 32nd floor, where Paddock had a suite. But the first officers to get to the floor arrived 12 minutes after Paddock had launched his assault on the crowd and two minutes after he had stopped shooting raising questions about how quickly the hotel had informed officers on the scene about Campos report. Times staff writers Jaweed Kaleem, Melissa Etehad and Ruben Vives contributed to this report. matt.pearce@latimes.com | @mattdpearce ALSO Most of the injured in Las Vegas have left the hospital and gone home. But one still wonders when she will Mandalay Bay management says Las Vegas rampage began within 40 seconds after security guard reported shooting In Las Vegas, the casino is always watching and yet it missed Stephen Paddock UPDATES: 3:00 p.m. Wednesday: The story was updated with a link to Campos interview. 11:40 p.m. Tuesday: The story was updated with details of Campos television appearance. 8:25 p.m. Tuesday: The story was updated with news of Campos upcoming appearance on television. The story was originally published at 12:55 p.m. The story seemed straightforward: The unarmed security guard approached Stephen Paddocks room on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, distracting the gunman and potentially saving lives. With a gunshot wound to his leg, he helped point officers to the gunmans location and stayed behind to evacuate hotel guests. He was hailed a hero by many, even as the story changed. Twice. Advertisement Now, the man who many want to honor and who can help bring clarity about the timeline of the shooting has vanished from the public eye, less than two weeks since the Oct. 1 massacre, which left 58 people dead and more than 500 others injured. David Hickey, president of the Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America union, said it had been four days since he last saw Jesus Campos. We have had no contact with him. Clearly, somebody knows where he is, he said. We have had no contact with him. Clearly, somebody knows where he is David Hickey, president of the Security, Police, and Fire Professionals of America union Hickey said he was with Campos on Thursday, coordinating a series of interviews that the guard was scheduled to give about the attack. They included appearances on the Sean Hannity show on Fox, as well as news shows on CNN, CBS, ABC and NBC. Campos was staying in a suite in a Las Vegas hotel, Hickey said. Hickey said he was attending a meeting with MGM representatives in one room of the suite as Campos waited with a security guard hired by MGM and another union member in the living room. When the meeting ended about 2 p.m., Hickey said Campos was no longer in the room. When I got in touch with the other union member, I was told Campos was taken to the Quick Care health clinic, Hickey said. He didnt hear from the guard afterward and announced to a scrum of reporters that night that Campos had canceled interviews. Since the days that Paddock opened fire at people attending a country music festival across from Mandalay Bay, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has shifted its timeline more than once. Initially, investigators said that Campos was shot after Paddock opened fire on the Route 91 Harvest festival concert. Then, Sheriff Joseph Lombardo said Campos was shot at 9:59 p.m., six minutes before the concert began. Finally, at a brief news conference last Friday, he said Campos was shot by the gunman at 10:05 p.m. Lombardos revision on Friday was made a day after MGM Resorts, which owns Mandalay Bay, disputed the departments timeline. In a statement, MGM said the time of 9:59 p.m. came from a hotel report that was created manually and was not accurate. Casino officials said the gunman was firing at concertgoers at the same time as, or within 40 seconds after, Campos reported the gunfire over his radio. Lombardo also said the guard had been investigating an alarm for a door that had been left ajar on the 32nd floor, where the shooting occurred. He also said that Paddock had checked into the hotel on Sept. 25, not Sept. 28 as had been previously reported. The correction raises questions about why it took police 12 minutes to find the gunmans hotel room when officers were already in the building and why they were searching other rooms when they were told the gunman was on the 32nd floor. According to a former security guard for Mandalay Bay, armed guards routinely patrol the hotels hallways. Campos was using a device to log in his whereabouts at the casino. The former security guard, who worked there in the early 2000s, questioned Lombardos statement that Campos was investigating the open door alarm. There was no alarm system for opened doors when I was there, he said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to discuss security issues. You know how often people would have to call hotel guests if that was the case? One of Campos co-workers wasnt surprised by his actions. She hopes Campos emerges and talks to the public so that people can honor him for his bravery. He was always in the middle of what was going down, said the co-worker, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of concerns she would lose her job. Hes humble and so charming, she added. Campos had been living in a quiet residential neighborhood in northern Las Vegas. On Sunday afternoon, a man sat in a white truck parked outside the house where Campos is said to live. The license plate on his truck was hidden with a white towel. He said he had been hired to guard the house and prevent the news media from entering the property. He declined to say who had hired him. Since Monday home of @MandalayBay security guard, Jesus Campos, guarded by private security-- today armed. #LasVegasShooting pic.twitter.com/6GZgGHB1eM Craig Fiegener (@CraigNews3LV) October 11, 2017 Three no trespassing signs clung to the fence and house, with a warning to reporters: No media on property. Neighbors, startled by the sight of the man sitting in his truck, said they didnt notice him until last week. I was going to call police, said Alejandra Andrea, a neighbor who lives across the street. Friends, co-workers and neighbors who know Campos described him as a private person. Still, Jaime Ruano, Campos neighbor, also wondered why the security guard has apparently disappeared. Hes a hero, Ruano said, and nobody knows where he is. ALSO Most of the injured in Las Vegas have left the hospital and gone home. But one still wonders when she will They were in love. He was planning to propose. How the Las Vegas shooting tore this couple apart Las Vegas gunman targeted police responding to his shooting rampage, investigation now shows A federal judge in Maryland early Wednesday joined another federal judge in Hawaii, halting President Trumps latest travel ban. U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuangs order came just hours after U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson in Honolulu issued an decision Tuesday blocking Trumps ban for what he said was its violation of immigration law. Chuang wrote that the presidents campaign trail comments about Muslims and his Twitter postings pointed to the ban being an unconstitutional example of discrimination against Muslims. Advertisement The newest travel rules, which Trump signed Sept. 24, were supposed to go into full effect on Wednesday to indefinitely ban entry to the U.S. by most nationals of Syria, Libya, Iran, Yemen, Somalia, Chad and North Korea. They also would restrict travel by certain Venezuelan government officials and their families. Watsons order, issued in response to a lawsuit filed jointly by the state of Hawaii, a Honolulu-based mosque, its imam and two state residents who have relatives in the affected countries, prevents the government from enforcing the new restrictions on travel from all of the nations except North Korea and Venezuela. The bans opponents did not ask the judge to strike down the travel rules for certain Venezuelans or the North Korea restrictions, which do little to change long-existing U.S. policy toward that country. Watson wrote that the ban goes against the Immigration and Nationality Act and plainly discriminates based on nationality in a way that is antithetical to American principles. He said the order suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the entry of more than 150 million nationals from six specified countries would harm U.S. interests. Chuangs block of the ban, which came in response to a suit by 23 U.S. residents and immigrant groups with ties to the nations, was more limited. It said the administration could not enforce the ban on any person with a bona fide connection to the U.S., such as close relatives who live in the country. The White House vowed to fight to reestablish the ban, issuing a statement Tuesday saying Watsons order undercuts the presidents efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States. The Justice Department said it would appeal. Todays ruling is incorrect, fails to properly respect the separation of powers, and has the potential to cause serious negative consequences for our national security, agency spokesman Ian D. Prior said in a statement on the Hawaii ruling. Speaking Wednesday to the Senate Judiciary Committee, Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions said the administration would fight the case up to the Supreme Court. It is a lawful and necessary order that we are proud to defend, he said. Were confident that we will prevail as time goes by in the Supreme Court. In the meantime, the State Department said it had notified consulates to resume processing visas for Chad, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen and Iran pending further legal proceedings. In the Hawaii lawsuit, challengers said the ban would hurt Hawaiis tourism industry as well as its state university system, which has students, professors and visitors from the blocked countries. The schools have 20 students from the eight countries, and five graduate school applications from the countries for the spring semester. The Muslim Assn. of Hawaii, a mosque with several locations that caters to the states 5,000 Muslims, said the ban would harm its members, some of whom hail from the listed nations and have family members residing in them. Individuals in the lawsuit said the ban would prevent their relatives from immigrating to or visiting the U.S. Government lawyers said in court filings in Hawaii and Maryland that Trumps travel order falls within his presidential powers and was written after an extensive review of vetting procedures for nations around the world. In the text of the ban he signed last month, Trump said his administration came up with the nations after looking at their willingness to cooperate with our identity-management and information-sharing policies and each countrys risk factors, such as whether it has a significant terrorist presence within its territory. Watson suggested in his ruling that he didnt buy that argument. The travel ban does not reveal why existing law is insufficient to address the presidents described concerns, the judge wrote, adding that many parts of the ban are unsupported by verifiable evidence. Watson also said the ban contains internal incoherencies that markedly undermine its stated national security rationale. Numerous countries fail to meet one or more of the global baseline criteria ... yet are not included in the ban. For example, the president finds that Iraq fails the baseline security assessment but then omits Iraq from the ban for policy reasons. Iraqis are instead subject to additional vetting, a provision the judge did not block. Notably, the judge largely avoided claims that the ban violated the Constitution by mostly targeting Muslim-majority nations. Watson said his court did not need to address the matter since it had already found the ban in violation of immigration law. Unlike prior court decisions blocking the travel ban, Watsons ruling only sparingly quoted Trumps statements that opponents have said were directed against Muslims, such as his campaign promise to suspend Muslim immigration. But while Chuangs block of the ban was more limited, he was more direct about the presidents relationship with Muslims. Trumps most recent attempt at at the ban was an inextricable reanimation of the twice-enjoined Muslim ban, he wrote. In March, Watson issued an order blocking a previous version of the ban in a case that was upheld by the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The U.S. Supreme Court then allowed the ban to go into partial effect over the summer before scheduling a fall court date. Coupled with a similar case out of Chuangs court, the Hawaii case was set for Oct. 10 arguments in the Supreme Court. But justices dropped the case because the prior ban which was temporary had expired and was replaced by the new one. jaweed.kaleem@latimes.com Jaweed Kaleem is The Times national race and justice correspondent. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. More national headlines UPDATES: 9:15 a.m. Oct. 18: Updated with news of another federal judge blocking the travel ban, comments from Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions, and other details. 7:20 p.m.: Updated with details on the ruling, reaction from the Trump administration and additional background. This article was originally published at 11:50 a.m. Oct. 17. We dont agree with Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions on much, but he was right when he warned last month that on college campuses protesters are now routinely shutting down speeches and debates across the country in an effort to silence voices that insufficiently conform with their views. And he was right to call for a national recommitment to free speech on campus. But what should such a recommitment look like? Was it reasonable or was it overkill for the University of Wisconsin system to adopt a new policy earlier this month that provides for the expulsion of any student who has been found three times to have engaged in violent or other disorderly conduct that materially and substantially disrupts the free expression of others? In our view, students who shout down speakers or significantly disrupt their presentations are betraying the principle of free expression that is central to higher education, and serious violations justify discipline. But universities need to be careful not to overreact. Advertisement Since Sessions spoke on Sept. 26, there have been several incidents in which protesters have shut down or disrupted speakers on college campuses, denying students who wanted to hear them the opportunity to evaluate the speakers ideas. Even racist speech, even hate speech, even repugnant ideas deserve protection. On the day after Sessions speech, for instance, Claire Gastanaga, a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union, was scheduled to speak at the College of William and Mary in Virginia on the subject of Students and the 1st Amendment. But students from the colleges Black Lives Matter chapter chanting The oppressed are not impressed and Liberalism is white supremacy stopped Gastanaga from speaking a few minutes into her remarks. They were protesting the ACLUs defense of the right of white nationalists to assemble in Charlottesville, Va. Just last Monday, a Texas state legislators speech was canceled at Texas Southern University after protesters disrupted him with shouts of When a racist comes to town, shut it down. And on Wednesday, the controversial social scientist Charles Murray was met by students who turned off the lights in the room, set off the alarms on their phones, played music and chanted: Racist, Sexist, KKK; Charles Murray go away. All of these incidents involve protesters who believed that they were justified because the speakers, in their view, were either racists or abettors of racism. Increasingly one hears the argument and not only on college campuses that racist or hate speech is a form of violence and shouldnt be tolerated. Although that argument may have gained force since the rise of the so-called alt-right and the election of President Trump, it isnt new. More than 40 years ago, protesters at Yale University stopped a debate featuring William Shockley, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who believed that blacks were less intelligent than whites. A committee appointed after the incident issued a resounding defense of free speech We value freedom of expression precisely because it provides a forum for the new, the provocative, the disturbing, and the unorthodox and faulted various elements of the Yale community for failing to defend that principle. But one member of the committee, a graduate student named Kenneth Barnes, dissented, arguing that free expression is an important value, [but] it is not the only value which we uphold. Under certain circumstances, free expression is outweighed by more pressing issues, including liberation of all oppressed people and equal opportunities for minority groups. Barnes was off base. Even racist speech, even hate speech, even repugnant ideas deserve protection, because once we say that free expression may be subordinated to other values, someone has to decide exactly which values justify censorship. And what if there is a difference of opinion on that question between the university administration or a student organization and a determined band of protesters? Racist talk may be banned today, but tomorrow it might be subversive talk or criticism of the government or anti-racist talk, depending on who is in charge of making the rules. The Yale report concluded that every member of the university has an obligation to permit free expression in the university. No member has a right to prevent such expression. It distinguished between forms of protest, such as wearing armbands or even briefly booing, clapping hands or heckling and disruption that actually prevented a speaker from communicating his or her message. It concluded that failure to end disruptive activity in response to a reasonable request for order is a punishable offense. (In fact, Yale suspended 11 students for their participation in disruption of the Shockley debate. Students who shout down a speaker should face discipline. We supported UC Irvine when it suspended a Muslim student group and disciplined some of its members after they disrupted a speech by Israels ambassador to the U.S. But we also believe universities should be prudent in imposing discipline, recognizing that college is a learning experience and that expulsion should be a punishment of last resort. The University of Wisconsins policy rightly reserves expulsion for repeat offenders, but its also should define disruptive disorderly conduct narrowly. A student shouldnt face discipline for carrying a sign or briefly heckling a speaker. Now as in the 1970s, college campuses are buffeted by political and cultural cross-currents that lead to passionate advocacy but also to an unwillingness to hear or allow others to hear repugnant views. When objection turns into obstruction, there should be consequences. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook In high school civics I was taught that, in America, the president has many roles, often divided in other countries. Hes commander in chief, head of state, chief administrator and executive, the head of his party, chief diplomat, legislative leader and, according to some lists, the guardian of the economy. I think we need to add another job description: Hes the talent. In Hollywood and increasingly journalism, business and government the talent is the person who must be catered to above all others. With few notable exceptions, you can get another executive producer or director, but you cant get another Barbra Streisand or Arnold Schwarzenegger. Advertisement Hollywood is full of stories of the talent making ridiculous demands and issuing absurd fatwas to protect their egos. Jennifer Lopez ordered that no one photograph her elbows. Streisand instructed through aides of course that the help at a London hotel not look her in the eye. Sean Penn had a serf swim the polluted and dangerous waters of the East River to get him a cigarette. Mike Myers halted production of Waynes World because he didnt have margarine for his bagel. Our ratings-obsessed president is a product of reality television. When he picked his cabinet, he reportedly saw it as both a staffing and a casting challenge. Writing about the unfolding scandals around Harvey Weinstein a rare example of off-screen talent Washington Post movie critic Ann Hornaday described the time-honored Hollywood reflex to circle the talent. When times get tough when a reporter or newbie or civilian dares to challenge the behavior of a Hollywood eminence the impulse is to close ranks around who has more power, money, fame and, perhaps most crucially, talent, she argued. Did a star lash out at a clumsy boom operator on a film set? Circle the talent, fire the crew member. Does a director have a drug problem thats endangering an entire production? Circle the talent and quash the expose. Is a movie mogul serially abusing young women and enlisting his employees as accomplices? Circle the talent and lie, ignore, attack, move on. Theyre worth it, goes the rationalization. No one else can do what they do. Washington is full of people who think theyre the talent. I once knew an intern who was in an elevator with a politician-turned-pundit. Even though the celebrity was standing right next to the elevator buttons, he told the intern in the back corner: That button isnt going to press itself. Much has already been said about how our ratings-obsessed president is a product of reality television. When he picked his cabinet, he reportedly saw it as both a staffing and a casting challenge. Thats the language he speaks, an inside source told the Washington Post. Hes very aesthetic. You can come with somebody who is very much qualified for the job, but if they dont look the part, theyre not going anywhere. His well-documented tendency to dislike it when members of his administration get more attention i.e. get more screen time, appear on the cover of Time magazine is classic talent behavior, as is his need to have more ice cream than his guests. When the infamous Access Hollywood tape broke exactly a year ago last week, Trump explained that he could get away with his alleged groping of women because, when youre a star, they let you do it. You can do anything. My friend Rob Long, a veteran Hollywood TV producer, saw it all coming back in January. President Trump is the actor starring in your series who is going to make your life miserable for the next four years. President Trump is what you get when you put the talent in charge, he wrote in Variety. Sen. Bob Corkers jab last week that the White House is an adult day-care center prompted Chief of Staff John Kelly to take over the press briefing to deny the story. I was not brought to this job to control anything but the flow of information to our president so that he can make the best decisions, he told reporters. So, again, I was not sent in to or brought in to control him. Maybe thats true, but it sure sounds like what someone circling the talent would say. As does much of what passes for conservative commentary about the talent-in-chief these days. jgoldberg@latimescolumnists.com Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook. To the editor: Why have a 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution if we refuse to use it? (Think the 25th Amendment will take care of Trump? Youre dreaming, Opinion, Oct. 15) Section 4 of the amendment allows the vice president and members of the Cabinet to declare the president unfit to carry out his duties of the presidency, subject to a vote of Congress if the president asserts that he is in fact able to keep his job. Congress and the Cabinet are full of well-educated people who care about their country, so how can they sit back while President Trump wrecks everything in his path? Judge Trumps performance, including his tweets, as fit or unfit in the following policy areas: climate change; support for NATO; Irans nuclear capability; tax reform; healthcare; the treatment of minorities, women, veterans, Dreamers, transgender people and judges; the environment; freedom of the press; disaster relief for Puerto Rico you get the idea. Advertisement Doing nothing is not an option. Jim Benson, Altadena .. To the editor: Columnist Doyle McManus clarified the distinction between use of impeachment and the 25th Amendment as ways to remove Trump from office. He concludes that impeachment would be the more likely option between the two, but only after a majority change in the House as the result of the 2018 midterm election. This may not be necessary, because there is most likely a large, currently silent group of Republicans in the House who would much prefer a more conservative and much more stable president in Mike Pence. Jordan Austin, Port Hueneme Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook The Senate moved closer Tuesday to a rare bipartisan deal to fix parts of the Affordable Care Act as a pair of leading senators announced an agreement designed to stabilize health insurance markets. The deal which was blessed by President Trump still faces significant hurdles in Congress, particularly opposition from some conservative Republicans who want nothing less than a complete repeal of the 2010 healthcare law, commonly called Obamacare. But the announcement of the compromise worked out by Senate Health Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander, a Republican from Tennessee, and the committees senior Democrat, Sen. Patty Murray of Washington, nonetheless marks an important breakthrough in the nations more than seven-year battle over the healthcare law. Advertisement The deal would reinstate federal payments to insurers that Trump cut off last week, offering millions of Americans some relief from rising premiums and shaky insurance markets. In a nod to Republicans, it would give states limited new flexibility to offer cheaper, less generous health plans. For the next two years, we want to make sure people can buy insurance at affordable prices, Alexander said Tuesday at the Capitol. There is an emerging, encouraging consensus, and well see how far it goes. The compromise follows repeated failures by the GOP-led Congress in recent months to agree on legislation to dismantle the law and replace it with something else. Alexander told senators the deal represents a modest fix, as the president wanted, and helps protect up to 16 million Americans who dont get health coverage through an employer or through a government program such as Medicare or Medicaid. At the White House, Trump endorsed the deal, even though he has called the insurer payouts a bailout and continues to promise he will restart efforts next year to roll back the law. Thats a very good solution, Trump said. We think its going to not only save money, but give people much better healthcare with a very, very much smaller premium spike. Later, in a speech Tuesday evening to the Heritage Foundation, Trump took credit for the negotiations, saying that Democrats had responded to [his] call for them to take responsibility for their Obamacare disaster and work with Republicans to provide much-needed relief for the American people. I commend the bipartisan work done by Sens. Alexander and Murray, he said, but he added: I continue to believe Congress must find a solution to the Obamacare mess instead of providing bailouts to insurance companies. The deal drew strong praise from Democrats as well, though prospects for passing it remain clouded by conservative criticism. Obamacare is in a death spiral. Anything propping it up is only saving what Republicans promised to dismantle, tweeted Rep. Mark Walker of North Carolina, chairman of the Republican Study Committee. Freedom Partners, a Koch-backed nonprofit with close ties to the White House, said any deal should start with eliminating the mandates that individuals have insurance and larger employers provide it. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) was noncommittal about the Alexander-Murray deal Tuesday, and the office of House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) did not immediately comment. We havent had a chance to think about a way forward yet, McConnell said. Most immediately, the proposed healthcare compromise would provide crucial federal payments to health insurers to help them provide reduced-price health plans to low-income Americans. The White House announced last week that the federal government would cease these so-called cost-sharing reduction payments, which have been the subject of a years-long legal dispute over whether Congress or the administration has authority to fund them. Trumps move to stop the payments shook the healthcare system, with insurers, state regulators and others warning of widespread disruptions and skyrocketing premiums as insurers moved to make up for the federal payments by hiking premiums for consumers. The money at issue is roughly $7 billion in annual payments that the federal government makes to insurers to reimburse them for reducing deductibles and co-payments for low-income consumers, something the law requires health plans to do regardless of whether they receive government reimbursement. The Alexander-Murray agreement would provide federal funding for the payments through 2019, a critical two-year extension that both Republican and Democratic state insurance regulators say is vital to keeping insurance rates in check. It would authorize funding to help states create reinsurance programs to backstop insurers that are hit with unusually high claims, a mechanism commonly used in insurance markets to control rates. Critically, the deal also would restore federal funding for advertising and outreach efforts to get Americans to sign up for coverage on marketplaces created through the 2010 law. Over the summer, the Trump administration announced huge cuts in outreach efforts, stoking fears that the White House was intent on sabotaging the markets. There is widespread agreement across the country that marketing and outreach are crucial to getting younger, healthier people to enroll in health plans and keep premiums in check for everyone. The 2018 sign-up period is scheduled to start Nov. 1. In addition to the market stabilization steps which Democrats have been urging for months the Alexander-Murray deal would make it easier for states to get out of some of the federal insurance rules set up by the 2010 law. Republicans have been calling for years for this added state flexibility, but it has been a major source of partisan disagreement because Democrats fear it could weaken consumer protections enacted in the law. Currently, insurers cannot turn away sick consumers or charge them more for coverage. Insurers also are barred from capping how much medical care they will cover. And they are required to offer all consumers a basic set of benefits, including coverage for prescription drugs, maternity care and mental health and substance abuse services. Under the Alexander-Murray deal, states would not be able to waive those rules for insurers. It does not change the essential health benefits. It does not change the requirement for preexisting conditions, Alexander said Thursday. But it does give states significant new flexibility in terms of offering policies. States could, for example, expand eligibility for catastrophic health plans that have very high deductibles and lower premiums. Currently, such plans are limited to people under 30. The Alexander-Murray deal would also make it easier for states to get approval from the federal government to experiment with new healthcare programs, a process that currently can take years. Many state leaders have been pleading with the federal government to make that process easier. noam.levey@latimes.com Twitter: @noamlevey ALSO Opioid law draws scrutiny after Trumps pick for drug czar steps aside Female lawmakers, staffers and lobbyists speak out on pervasive harassment in Californias Capitol NAFTA talks bog down over U.S. demands as latest round concludes UPDATES: 7:50 p.m.: This article was updated with comments from President Trumps evening speech. This article was originally published at 3:10 p.m. President Trump, facing blowback for his delay in calling the families of four soldiers who died in combat, on Tuesday invoked the fallen son of his chief of staff, retired Gen. John F. Kelly. As far as other presidents, I dont know, you could ask Gen. Kelly, did he get a call from Obama? I dont know what Obamas policy was, Trump said in an interview on Fox News Radio on Tuesday. Trump had faced criticism for failing to call the families of four soldiers killed in Niger on Oct. 6. It intensified Monday after Trump falsely claimed that Obama and other predecessors failed to call families. Advertisement White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement late Tuesday that Trump had subsequently called the families. President Trump spoke to all four of the families of those who were killed in action in Niger, she said. He offered condolences on behalf of a grateful nation and assured them their familys extraordinary sacrifice to the country will never be forgotten. Kelly seldom talks about his son, 2nd Lt. Robert M. Kelly, 29, who died from a Taliban land mine in Afghanistan in 2010. A White House official who demanded anonymity said Obama did not call the elder Kelly after the death. The official did not say whether Kelly received a letter. Obamas office declined to comment. Kelly, who was a general when his son died, has not spoken about his interaction with Obama on the subject. Kelly attended a breakfast the Obamas hosted in May 2011, six months after his sons death, and was seated at First Lady Michelle Obamas table, according to a person familiar with the breakfast who requested anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter. Obama officials angrily denied the assertion that he had failed to make similar calls. Alyssa Mastromonaco, a deputy chief of staff for Obama, used profanity in an angry tweet on Monday, calling the claim a lie. Hes a deranged animal, she said of Trump. I really speak for myself. I am not speaking for other people. I dont know what [George W.] Bush did. I dont know what Obama did, Trump said in the Fox radio interview. I believe his policy was somewhat different than my policy. I can tell you, my policy is I have called every one of them. noah.bierman@latimes.com Twitter: @noahbierman The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has not yet discussed the date for the next mission coming to Kyiv within the fourth review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program, IMF First Deputy Managing Director David Lipton has said. "We have not discussed the date for the mission. Rather we have been focused on discussion of the policy steps needed to be able to move forward," he said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine. He said that the main objective of the program in Ukraine at this stage is to move from stabilization to structural reforms. For example, there is a benchmark on creation of the anticorruption court, he said. "What is important for us and what was agreed during my visit was that there would be the creation of an anticorruption entity that satisfied key principles; that would be efficient and effective. For us efficiency and effectiveness means very importantly that the selection process for judges who will serve on that entity be sound, ensuring their integrity and professional quality," Lipton said. "There is also a benchmark that has to do with the privatization legislation and our people are looking at that legislation," he said. "In addition to these reforms, to move forward, there are also some questions about whether past reforms are being maintained and carried through. One area is gas tariffs and the gas system," Lipton said. "There has been some discontent about the lack of progress in improving governance at Naftogaz. One of the major accomplishments of the program has been that the gas system has been improved, the gas subsidies removed, and finances of the gas system normalized Another part is about the routine adjustment of gas tariffs. Once you get the elimination of the implicit subsidies that were provided before, tariffs have to move with international market prices," he said. As for the pension reform, Lipton recalled that the IMF has agreed with the Ukrainian government the principles that the pension reform will be based on. "Those included budgetary savings and making sure that the pensions for those who retire will really provide a decent standard of living. We had not a chance to look at the final legislation yet. What we will be looking at is whether the principles that we have laid down are reflected in the final bill," he said. The IMF intends to study the details of the draft national budget for 2018. "Hitting budget targets is not an easy thing and obviously depends also on how robust the economy is. We will be looking whether the budget is strong enough under these circumstances," Lipton said. Republicans, in a shift after Las Vegas massacre, are open to considering a gun limit -- on bump stocks The Las Vegas massacre has forced a breach in congressional Republicans solid opposition to gun restrictions, prompting many, from party leaders on down, to say they will consider banning bump stocks that turn assault rifles into virtual machine guns. The National Rifle Assn., to which most Republicans are loyal and which had been silent since the gunmans attack Sunday night, on Thursday in a statement said it could back such limits -- as a federal regulation, not law. The NRA believes that devices designed to allow semi-automatic rifles to function like fully-automatic rifles should be subject to additional regulations. its statement on Thursday said. The NRAs blessing will probably increase the number of Republicans willing to back restrictions, but if those limits come in the form of regulations from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), rather than in a law, Democrats are certain to object. Just Wednesday, when California Sen. Dianne Feinstein introduced legislation to ban bump stocks by law, only fellow Democrats joined with her. By Thursday, however, top GOP leaders in the House and Senate, including Speaker Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin and Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn of Texas, signaled their interest in working on legislation that that could limit access to the devices. Clearly thats something we need to look into, Ryan told MSNBC host Hugh Hewitt in an interview scheduled to air this weekend. Senators on Thursday morning privately discussed ways they could tackle the issue as they met for routine business. I will tell you that the unique aspect of the bump stock and how you would literally transform a semiautomatic weapon into an automatic weapon is something that I think bears looking into, Cornyn told Texas reporters on a conference call. He has asked Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Charles E. Grassley of Iowa to convene a hearing and look into it. Even Rep. Mark Meadows of North Carolina, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus of conservative hard-liners, told reporters earlier in the week hed be willing to consider banning bump stocks, if the Senate passes a bill and sends it to the House. The shift is notable for Republicans who, under great pressure from the NRA and other gun rights groups, have resisted past efforts at gun control, even after some of the most devastating mass shootings in the United States. Coming after the Las Vegas shooting, which left 58 dead and hundreds wounded in what authorities said is the deadliest mass shooting in modern American history, the movement may indicate the potential limits of the gun lobbys reach into politics and policy. Polls show Americans overwhelmingly want measures that could curb gun violence and pressure has mounted as cultural figures, including late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel, have delivered heart-wrenching criticisms of congressional inaction. Democrats, who have at times splintered on firearms issues as conservative-state lawmakers joined Republicans to defeat gun-safety bills, welcomed the changed outlook. They have called on President Trump to cut across partisan lines and push Congress toward legislation to reduce gun violence that polls show most Americans would support. Will the president stand up? said Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer of New York. The president has a choice. Many Democrats, however, will not want to limit action to bump stocks. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco said bump stock legislation was one approach, but no substitute for a background check bill that she said would have bipartisan support in the House if Ryan would allow a vote. It really is all up to the speaker, she said. Is he going to bring the bill to the floor? At the same time, lawmakers were skeptical that initial interest in limited bipartisan legislation would translate into enough actual votes to write the restriction into law. We need to move Republicans from being open to the idea to being willing to actually work on it, said Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut, a Democrat who has become a leader on firearms safety measures since the 2012 killings of 20 first-graders and six adults at an elementary school in Newtown, Conn. One key Republican, Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, who co-sponsored a bipartisan background check bill that was defeated a few years ago, was noncommittal Thursday. He said he was just learning about bump stocks and needed more information. Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas told reporters it was too soon, as the investigation in Las Vegas was just underway, to consider legislation. Lawmakers, though, appeared concerned that the device offers a way to get around the existing ban on automatic weapons, which have been outlawed for years except for military use. In the House, several military veterans, led by Rep. Adam Kinzinger, a Republican from Illinois, sent a letter to federal officials asking them to reconsider how they regulate the devices. During the Obama administration, the ATF authorized use of the stocks. This is definitely an area were going to look [at], Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy of Bakersfield said on Fox News. A number of lawmakers, including Ryan, an avid hunter, said they were unfamiliar with bump stocks before the Las Vegas shooting. The alleged gunman appears to have used the device for rapid shooting. Read More Did violent volcanoes in Russia, Greenland and Alaska affect the lives of ancient Egyptians? It may sound improbable, but according to a new study, the answer is yes. In a paper published Tuesday in Nature Communications, a team of researchers shows that explosive volcanic eruptions in high northern latitudes of the globe can impact the Nile watershed, causing the flow of one of the worlds mightiest rivers to slow. Advertisement This in turn could keep the lower Nile from flooding in the late summer months a regular occurrence on which ancient Egyptians relied to irrigate their crops. No Nile flooding meant no irrigation, which meant a bad year in the fields, low food supplies and ultimately, researchers say, civic unrest. Its a bizarre concept that Alaskan volcanoes were screwing up the Nile, but in fact, thats what happened, said Joseph Manning, a historian at Yale University who worked on the study. Manning said the idea to compare geological evidence of volcanoes with records kept by the ancient Egyptians occurred to him about two years ago. He was at a dinner with geographer Francis Ludlow, now at Trinity College in Dublin, who had contributed to a seminal study that redated volcanic eruptions and looked at how they may have impacted the climate and history at the time. Around their third glass of wine, Manning asked Ludlow whether he had any data on volcanoes that erupted from 305 to 30 B.C. the centuries that the powerful Ptolemaic dynasty ruled Egypt, and Mannings area of expertise. When Ludlow pulled the data up on his computer, Manning was stunned. He instantly recognized the dates of some of the volcanoes as corresponding with times of upheaval in Ptolemaic Egypt. It almost looked too good to be true, Manning said. And thats when we started to work. The two researchers teamed up with William Boos, who studies the fluid dynamics of tropical atmosphere with an emphasis on monsoon circulations to try to understand how an explosive volcano in a different part of the world can affect the East African monsoon season. The authors explain that sulfurous gases released during a powerful volcano can form reflective sulfate aerosols in the stratosphere. Because these aerosols reflect solar radiation, they lead to a cooling effect that can last for one to two years. This, in turn, affects what is known as the hydroclimate, including the amount of surface evaporation and rainfall. Its an indirect response, but because of atmospheric circulation and energy budgets, we find that large volcanic eruptions cause droughts, particularly in monsoon areas, Manning said. He added that the effect on the Nile watershed appeared to be greatest for volcanoes in the high northern latitudes of the globe. To see how this dynamic played out in the real world, the authors compared the dates of ancient volcanic explosions from ice cores in Greenland and Antarctica to the Islamic Nilometer an ancient record of the heights of the Niles annual summer flood. The Islamic Nilometer, which stretches more than 1,000 years from 622 till 1902, is the longest-known annually recorded observational hydrological record, the authors wrote. Through this work, they found that the flood height of the Nile during an eruption year was consistently lower than during non-eruption years in all but one case. On average, the impact of an explosive volcano reduces river flooding by 25% below the mean, Manning said. Although the Nilometer did not go back to the time of Ptolemaic Egypt, the authors still were able to compare data about the timing of ancient volcanoes with socioeconomic and political activity from that era. They were aided by a trove of well-dated records, particularly papyri, that survived. The researchers found an increase in revolts against Ptolemaic rule in eruption years, suggesting the events might have been triggered by the stress of the Nile failure and not by overtaxation or resentment of Greek rule, as previously has been thought. And while they discovered no relationship between volcanic explosions and the initiation of wars, the group did find that ongoing wars were more likely to cease after a violent volcano. This could be because shortly after volcanic eruptions altered the Nile flow, warrior kings had to leave the battlefield and return home to mitigate civil unrest. For example, after major volcanic eruptions in 247 and 244, historical documents suggest that Ptolemy III was called to address food shortages at home just as he and his troops were about to enter Babylon. If he had stayed, he might have conquered the entire Near East possibly changing the course of human history, Manning said. The authors note that there are a lot of causes of Nile flooding variability not just volcanoes. The ancient Egyptians were fairly well adept at handling the rivers unpredictability, for example, by relying on grain storage. Similarly, they point out that there are other reasons besides Nile failure that would have led to revolts in Ptolemaic Egypt: ethnic tensions between Egyptians and Greek elites, heavy state taxation and the cost of having nearly constant military operations. The authors are not saying that volcanoes caused all civil unrest in Egypt, but they do think the eruptions could have been a factor. The work suggests that humans may be a little less in control of our destiny than we realize. As current events have shown, we still live in nature, Manning said. deborah.netburn@latimes.com Do you love science? I do! Follow me @DeborahNetburn and like Los Angeles Times Science & Health on Facebook. MORE IN SCIENCE Fires, droughts and hurricanes: Whats the link between climate change and natural disasters? Astronomers strike gold and platinum as they watch two neutron stars collide How NASA tracks carbon emissions from space to better understand and deal with climate change A former Laguna Beach resident who authorities say befriended small-business owners and stole more than $1.5 million from them was sentenced Monday to more than five years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge David Carter sentenced Elizabeth Jane Mulder, 34, of San Juan Capistrano to 63 months in prison and ordered her to pay more than $1.53 million in restitution to seven victims, including small-business owners and the Internal Revenue Service. Mulder pleaded guilty earlier this year to wire fraud and subscribing to a false tax return, both felonies, as part of a deal with federal prosecutors in exchange for a potentially reduced prison sentence. She originally faced up to 23 years in prison, according to court documents. According to authorities, Mulder devised a scheme in which she gained the trust of local small-business owners, agreed to act as their accountant and then embezzled money from them between July 2009 and May 2016. Mulder told the business owners she was an accountant and president of Mulder Financial Consulting, authorities said. Actually, however, she was a saleswoman for a soil and fertilizer company, Laguna Beach police said. Police alleged Mulder deceived clients into making checks payable to a phony business she created called Income Tax Payments under the guise that those payments would satisfy the clients outstanding federal tax obligations. By developing and continuing personal friendships with the victims, [Mulder] was able to assume responsibilities for their small-business accounting needs and then proceeded to steal from them, prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memorandum filed with the court. [Mulder]s conduct resulted in various levels of financial loss and emotional distress to the victims, many of whom were required to drain their personal bank accounts or retirement funds in an attempt to avoid bankruptcy. Mulder became the subject of a fraud investigation in January 2016 after the owner of San Clemente-based JAC Wines told police that he suspected his accountant had stolen $200,000 from him. During the 18-month investigation, police identified other businesses that Mulder is believed to have embezzled from, including Toni & Guy Hair Salon in Newport Beach, the Kurtz-Ahlers travel agency in San Juan Capistrano, Bella Pilates in San Clemente, Andra Builders Inc. in Costa Mesa and California Print 2 Copy in Irvine. According to federal prosecutors, Mulder used the money for personal expenses, including a luxury rental home in Laguna Beach, cosmetic surgery, vacations and an Arabian horse. Mulder also was accused of filing tax returns from 2011 to 2016 that did not show her true income for those years, according to court documents. hannah.fry@latimes.com Twitter: @HannahFryTCN During filming for an episode of the television show Wonder Woman, stuntwoman Kitty ONeil took a record plunge at the Valley Hilton in Sherman Oaks. An extended caption in the Feb. 13, 1979, Los Angeles Times reported: It wasnt a plane. It wasnt a bird. It wasnt even Wonder Woman. It was a stunt. On Monday, stuntwoman Kitty ONeil plunged 127 feet from atop the Valley Hilton in Sherman Oaks into an inflatable air bag at the pool deck as the scene was being filmed for an upcoming two-hour special episode of the Wonder Woman series. Advertisement A Warner Bros. spokesman said ONeil, who is deaf, established a new high-fall record and broke her own previous mark of 120 feet. Before the leap, ONeil practiced by making two 10-story jumps. After the leap, she rode to the airport for a return flight to Bonneville, Utah, where shes attempting to set a world land-speed record in her jet-powered car. On Dec. 6, 1976, ONeil set the land-speed record for female drivers after clocking 512.710 mph on a measured course at Alford Desert in southeastern Oregon. In 1979, the biographical movie Silent Victory: The Kitty ONeil Story, appeared on CBS. Actress Stockard Channing starred as ONeil. These three photos appeared in the Feb. 13, 1979, Los Angeles Times. Feb. 12, 1979: Stuntwoman Kitty ONeil established a new high-fall record when she plunged 127 feet from atop the Valley Hilton in Sherman Oaks. ((R.L. Oliver / Los Angeles Times) ) See more from the Los Angeles Times archives here Taliban militants launched a series of bombings across Afghanistan, targeting police and government facilities in attacks that killed 74 people and wounded more than 200, officials said Tuesday. In the deadliest attack, Taliban militants detonated car bombs and then stormed a police training center in the eastern province of Paktia, sparking an hours-long battle, leaving 52 people dead. Bombs planted in a truck and a Humvee detonated in succession, allowing Taliban gunmen to raid the police compound and open fire on officers and recruits, according to official accounts. Advertisement As black smoke billowed from the compound in the city of Gardez, Afghan security forces battled the militants some officials said five, others said as many as 11 for more than three hours as reports of casualties continued to rise. When the fighting was over, hospital and military officials said they had received 52 bodies. The Afghan interior ministry issued a statement saying that the provincial police chief, Toryalai Abdiyani, was among the dead. At least 20 civilians were among those killed in the attack, said the deputy interior minister, Murad Ali Murad. At least 158 people were wounded, he said. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attack in a statement. As the government looks to move on with the values of peace and human rights, the terrorists emphasis is on the continuity of war, Ghanis office said. Seventeen police officers were killed in two Taliban attacks elsewhere in Afghanistan, making it one of the deadliest days for Afghan forces in months. In the central province of Ghazni, an explosives-packed Humvee blew up outside the Andar district governors compound early Tuesday morning. Arif Noori, a spokesman for the Ghazni provincial governor, said 15 police officers and five civilians were killed and 43 people were wounded. In the western province of Farah, Taliban militants stormed the center of Shibkho district, along the Iranian border, late Monday and killed two police officers. The provincial governors spokesman, Mohammad Naser Mehri, said security forces responded and battled the gunmen for four hours before expelling them and regaining control of the district center. The attacks came a day after representatives of Afghanistan, Pakistan, China and the United States met in the Persian Gulf kingdom of Oman in a bid to resuscitate peace talks in Afghanistan. The so-called Quadrilateral Coordination Group was established nearly two years ago to facilitate negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban. Its efforts stalled last year after a U.S. drone strike killed Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Mansour in Pakistan. The Taliban has steadily chipped away at the Afghan governments control over territory, and the insurgents now hold or contest 40% of the countrys districts, according to U.S. estimates. President Trump has authorized the deployment of as many as 3,800 additional U.S. troops, on top of 11,000 already in Afghanistan, to bolster the training and equipping of the struggling Afghan forces. Special correspondent Faizy reported from Kabul and Times staff writer Bengali from Mumbai, India. shashank.bengali@latimes.com Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia ALSO U.S.-backed Syrian forces say Raqqah has been captured from Islamic State Chinas Communist Party elders picked Xi Jinping because they thought they could control him. They were wrong A U.S. airstrike took her mother and threatened her eyesight. For 4-year-old Hawra, the real struggle is to forget Israel said Tuesday that it would not conduct diplomatic negotiations with a Palestinian government that includes a role for the militant group Hamas, laying down a significant potential roadblock to already complicated Palestinian reconciliation efforts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office said there would be no talks with the Palestinians unless Hamas agrees to a series of conditions it is unlikely to accept, including recognizing Israel and agreeing to disarm. The announcement came as Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas Fatah government is in talks with Hamas over ending a 10-year split. Advertisement Under Egyptian auspices, the Palestinian factions last week announced a preliminary agreement and have formed committees to sort out unresolved issues, most notably who will control Hamas massive weapons arsenal. While agreeing to turn over all governing responsibilities to Fatah, Hamas has said control of its weapons is not up for negotiation. That would leave Hamas with significant behind-the-scenes influence over Palestinian affairs, even if does not have an official role in the next government. Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip from Abbas forces in 2007, leaving the Palestinians divided between two governments. Previous reconciliation attempts have failed, and there is no guarantee that the current round of talks will succeed. Netanyahus stance matched past demands placed on Hamas by Israel and the international community, that it renounce violence and recognize Israels right to exist. But Tuesdays statement added some new conditions, including that Abbas government continue a crackdown on Hamas militants in the West Bank, that Hamas sever ties with Iran, and that it return the remains of two Israeli soldiers and two living Israeli civilians believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza. Abbas spokesman Nabil abu Rudaineh said reconciliation is a top Palestinian interest. Any Israeli remarks will not change the official Palestinian position to move forward with the reconciliation efforts to achieve the hopes and aspirations of our people in ending the division, he said in a statement Tuesday night. Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum said this is an unacceptable Israeli interference in Palestinian internal affairs. Abbas seeks an independent state in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza. Israel captured the territories in 1967, though it withdrew from Gaza in 2005. The last round of peace talks broke down in 2014. President Donald Trumps envoy, Jason Greenblatt, has been shuttling throughout the region in search of a formula to restart talks. His office had no immediate comment on Netanyahus announcement. There was no immediate comment from Egypt. After airstrikes, a girl faces an uncertain future in Mosul Hawra Hassan, 4, survived a U.S. airstrike in west Mosul last March that killed her mother and landed her in a hospital bed. It seemed certain she would be blind. Ukraine has requested that Moscow's Arbitration Court postpone or suspend proceedings in Tatneft's case to collect $144 million until 2018, an Interfax correspondent reported from the courtroom. In April 2017 Tatneft requested that Moscow's Arbitration Court and the High Court of Justice in London enforce an international arbitration ruling from July 29, 2014 ordering Ukraine to pay the Russian oil company $144 million in compensation for the Ukrtatnafta case. The lawyer representing Ukraine said that Ukraine had submitted an appeal to Russia's Supreme Court on the Tatneft case on October 16. He also said France's higher court had received Ukraine's appeal of the international arbitration ruling which was being used as a basis for reviewing the case. He said the French court was expected to rule on the matter in the middle of 2018 and that if the French court dismissed the arbitration ruling then it could not be fulfilled. Because of this, Ukraine requested that proceedings be postponed until July 15, 2018 or suspended until France's higher court finishes reviewing the case. After four months of grueling street fighting, a U.S.-backed Syrian force said Tuesday that it had wrested control of Raqqah from Islamic State , dealing a powerful symbolic blow to the militants who made the city the de facto capital of their self-styled caliphate. Celebratory gunfire erupted in the shattered metropolis along the Euphrates River, where years of airstrikes left virtually no building unscathed. Video and photographs shared on social media showed members of the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, raising their yellow flag and spinning doughnuts in armored vehicles at an infamous traffic circle where the militants would force residents to watch gruesome beheadings and crucifixions. More than any other city, Raqqah came to embody the towering ambitions and brutal excesses of Islamic State. For three years, it was home to many of the groups leaders, a place where foreign captives were imprisoned and killed, where Yazidi women and girls were sold into slavery and where attacks were launched around the world. But most of the senior leaders left months ago, heading south toward the border with Iraq and their remaining strongholds in Dair Alzour province. Many commanders and fighters gathered in the town of Mayadeen, which was recaptured Saturday by the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian allies. Those who remained in Raqqah mounted a final stand at the main hospital and sports stadium, where fighting raged over the last two days. We are in control of the whole city, Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led SDF forces, said Tuesday. The stadium was the last place to be liberated, and our forces are cleansing the area and removing bombs to open main roads inside the city. Mapzen, OpenStreetmap (@latimesgraphics) A formal victory declaration would come later, he said, after troops had cleared the city of explosive devices and any militants still in hiding. The U.S.-led coalition battling Islamic State said about 100 extremists were still holed up in a sliver of the city that is heavily booby-trapped and mined. One of these devices killed a senior SDF commander Monday, according to Col. Ryan Dillon, a U.S. military spokesman in Baghdad. We understand that there is still about 10% of the city that has to be cleared, and we still expect there to be pockets of resistance in those areas, he said. Raqqahs fall is the latest in a string of military defeats for Islamic State, which the coalition says has lost 87% of the territory it controlled after a lightning sweep across vast stretches of Syria and Iraq in 2014. Iraqi forces captured the groups most prized possession, the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, in July. The militants are now clustered in a handful of towns on either side of the Syrian-Iraqi border. Though the establishment of a modern-day caliphate, or Islamic state, served as a powerful recruiting tool for the militants, U.S. commanders caution that its collapse does not spell the end of an ideology that has inspired deadly attacks around the world. There are already signs that some of the militants are transforming themselves into a more conventional guerrilla-style insurgent force. The group, which is often referred to by the acronym ISIS, also has active branches in other parts of the Middle East, Africa and Asia. In Syria and Iraq, Islamic State leaders have proven adept at exploiting long-standing grievances among Sunni Arabs, who often saw them as defenders against their countries corrupt and abusive leaders even if they did not always embrace the militants extreme interpretation of Islamic law. Those grievances remain unresolved and could be tapped again, analysts say. In a sense, weve been at this moment before, when there was a U.S.-led surge in Iraq from 2007 that people who fought it thought had defeated Islamic State in Iraq, which is the precursor entity to ISIS, said Peter Mandaville, a former advisor in the U.S. State Department who was part of a team implementing the U.S. strategy to counter the militants in 2015-2016. I understand that the Syrian Kurdish forces that were at the forefront of this very impressive victory are quite ebullient and excited right now, said Mandaville, who is now at George Mason University s Schar School of Policy and Government. That said, I also think there is the risk of a little too much euphoria and triumphalism around this. Syrian Democratic Forces, backed by coalition air power, began their assault on Raqqah in early June. Much of the city now lies in ruins, its buildings pulverized by artillery fire and airstrikes that killed more than 1,000 people, according to local activists and foreign monitoring groups. Hundreds of survivors who were being held as human shields were able to make their escape in recent days under a controversial deal negotiated by tribal leaders and a provincial council that also saw the surrender of 275 local extremists and their families. They are among about 270,000 people displaced from Raqqah, crowded into camps where conditions are miserable and families do not have enough food, water or medicine. With high levels of destruction reported in and around Raqqah, most families have little or nothing to return home to and will likely be stuck in camps for months or years to come, the international aid group Save the Children said in a statement Tuesday. In addition, more than 10,000 people a day are now fleeing ongoing fighting in ISIS strongholds around Dair Alzour. Once Raqqah is fully liberated, its future remains uncertain. A civilian council made up of Kurds and Arabs is poised to take charge of running the city. But the Syrian government is determined to regain control of the areas it lost to the uprising against President Bashar Assad . U.S. officials envisage that their role will be limited. De-mining, removal of rubble, setting up electricity and supplies of clean water are the next tasks for the United States, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told reporters in Washington on Tuesday. "We will restore basic services, not [do] the nation-building that the U.S. government previously engaged in in other countries," she said. The idea, she explained, "is to get it up and running and then turn it over to other countries and the host country." Nauert did not address a question about the fact that in this case the "host country" is in the midst of a civil war and many in Raqqah might fear retaliation from the Assad government. Meanwhile, there is already concern among some U.S. lawmakers that the capture of Islamic States most well-known stronghold could lead to complacency about the continuing fight against the group. "We should celebrate the fall of ISIS in Raqqah and the liberation of those who were living under terrorist oppression, said Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), who sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee. But he cautioned that this is no time to let off of the gas. The citys capture underscores the need for a comprehensive Syria strategy because our military, our partners and allies, and those brave souls who are literally fighting for their homes and for their neighbors deserve nothing less than our full commitment to see this through," Sasse said in a statement. (@latimesgraphics) Times staff writers W.J. Hennigan, Tracy Wilkinson and Laura King in Washington contributed to this report along with special correspondents Omar Medhat in Cairo and Wael Resol in Sulaymaniya, Iraq. alexandra.zavis@latimes.com Twitter: @alexzavis ALSO A U.S. airstrike took her mother and threatened her eyesight. For 4-year-old Hawra, the real struggle is to forget Clashes around oil-rich Kirkuk raise specter of a new civil war in Iraq A Somalia bombing killed hundreds; officials figure it must have been Shabab extremists again UPDATES: 6:55 p.m.: This article was updated with additional discussion of what lies ahead in Raqqah. 3:50 p.m.: This article was updated with comments by Peter Mandaville, an expert on Islamic State, and additional details. 12:05 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details and background. 9:25 a.m.: This article was updated with Times reporting. 8:45 a.m.: This article was updated with comments from a coalition spokesman. 4:34 a.m.: This article was updated to say Raqqah has been freed of Islamic State, per a Syrian Kurdish commander. This story was originally published at 4:05 a.m. She survived a U.S. airstrike in west Mosul in March, but at what cost? It killed her mother and sent shrapnel ripping into her eyes. Sitting on a hospital bed barely two weeks after the attack, 4-year-old Hawra Hasan had her hair shorn, her eyes sealed shut as she awaited multiple operations. It seemed certain she would be blind. The city of Mosul has been freed from the grip of the militant group Islamic State, but in the months since, many of its children have been paying the price of a long war. Advertisement Some were pulled out of the rubble, still alive, and had to be nurtured back to health. An Iraqi army doctor at a field hospital near the Old City said medics found malnourished babies of Islamic State fighters abandoned in the wreckage. West Mosul was left as a wasteland of cratered streets and collapsed buildings, and in many of them could be heard the wails of children some injured, some terrified, some protesting a future that no longer included parents. Months later, Hawra Hasan is still battling the effects of her injuries yet her story also highlights the stubborn resilience of a country that has been in a continuous state of war for more than 14 years, with no end in sight. Children escaping Mosul have gone through horror piled upon horror. They have been starved and abused inside the city. Explosive weapons have been dropped in narrow streets by all sides with little regard to their impact. Even if they make it out alive, they are left scarred and broken, said Ana Locsin, director in Iraq for the nonprofit Save the Children, which studied children displaced by battle in Mosul. The research on 65 children in a displacement camp south of Mosul found that 90% had lost a loved one. Many were so affected by memories of extreme violence that they expressed constant fear of an unidentified person or monster. Many were unable to show emotions, and suffered from what researchers called waking nightmares. Hawra resettled with what was left of her family at the home of her grandparents in east Mosul, a part of the city that suffered less damage. One hot afternoon there, an air conditioner was humming outside. Unlike west Mosul, the east side of the city has electricity and running water. Inside, Hawras older sister Adra, who wasnt home when the airstrike hit, was using a laptop to search for Barbie cartoons on YouTube. Hawra appeared in the doorway, transformed. Her brown hair had grown into a pixie cut with short, choppy bangs. Below them, her eyes were wide. She could see. Aliya Ismail kisses her granddaughter Hawra Hasan, 4, who suffered shrapnel wounds from a March 17 coalition airstrike that destroyed her home and killed her mother. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times ) When she first opened her eyes after surgery, her father said, Hawra was full of questions: Whose clothes am I wearing? Whose house am I in? Where is your beard? Operations cost the family $2,000. To protect Hawras eyes afterward, doctors said she had to stay inside and out of the sun for at least another month. Her face is still scarred by shrapnel, bumps she can feel when she runs her small hands over her forehead. She has to take medication to sleep. And she still cannot stand to be left alone. Hawra remembers the March 17 airstrike, how it buried her alive, burned off her hair and blackened her body. Somehow, said her grandmother, Aliya Ismail, it has given her a keen sense of other peoples pain. Yesterday I was sitting and crying and she came and held me and said, I know why youre crying, Ismail said. At other times, she said, her granddaughter is quick to anger and lash out. To Ismail, that says she is as scarred on the inside as she looks on the outside. Hawras father, Alaa Hasan, said he hopes his daughters psychological state improves, so that she can start school. She is too short-tempered, to be honest, Ismail said as she watched Hawra play. I think she misses her mother and she takes it out by hitting, said Hasan, 26. In March 2017, Hawra Hasan, 4, cries in pain while receiving treatment at the West Irbil Hospital. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times ) A two-month Pentagon investigation into the airstrike that injured Hawra found the U.S.-led coalition attack inadvertently ignited explosives that killed at least 105 civilians. Residents have insisted several hundred people died. Her father applied for compensation from the Iraqi government, but has not received a response. When Hawra was being treated after the airstrike about 50 miles east in Irbil, her father vowed never to return to Mosul. But Hasan ultimately didnt have a choice. In order to stay in Irbils Kurdish semiautonomous region, he had to reassemble the familys identification paperwork, destroyed by the airstrike. He was gathering the paperwork as quickly as he could, forced to wait as Mosuls government offices slowly reopened. Hawra sat that day quietly in a corner, entranced by the Barbie video her sister selected. Her bent head exposed a rough pink scar down the back of her neck. Hasan was trying to decide when to take her to see her mothers grave. Maybe when shes older, he finally decided. For now, I dont want to remind her. molly.hennessy-fiske@latimes.com Twitter: @mollyhf ALSO Take Ahmed and let me die Victims of U.S. airstrike in Mosul recount a day of horror Civilian casualties from airstrikes grow in Iraq and Syria. But few are ever investigated. More than 200 civilians killed in suspected U.S. airstrike in Iraq Before it fell under the sway of Islamic State in January 2014, the Syrian crossroads city of Raqqah, on the northern banks of the Euphrates River in historic Mesopotamia, had lived out a richly layered past under a succession of empires. Down through the centuries, it was an Ottoman trading post, a desert garrison and a cotton-rich commercial capital, known for gentler arts like its classic blue-glazed ceramics. But the last three years and nine months marked what may have been its grimmest chapter. Advertisement Under the militants rule, Raqqawis as the people of what was once Syrias sixth-largest city are called lived in terror of floggings, beheadings, and a pervasive network of Islamic State spies eager to sniff out any sign of resistance to the militant groups imposition of stringent sharia law. Seemingly minor infractions smoking, a man wearing too-long pants or a too-short beard, a woman failing to completely cover her face in public could lead to harsh punishment. Here is some background on the de facto capital of Islamic States self-proclaimed caliphate, which a U.S.-backed Syrian force on Tuesday declared liberated from the militants. Why was Raqqah so symbolically important to Islamic State? The groups founding mythology centers on a modern-day reimagining of what it believes was Islams golden age. Raqqahs history offered a convenient means of evoking past glories: It had been the capital of a caliphate a Muslim rulers administrative jurisdiction in the late 8th and early 9th centuries, when the Abbasid caliph Harun Rashid brought his imperial seat to the city from Baghdad. In a deliberate echo, Islamic States leader Abu Bakr Baghdadi would claim the title of caliph for himself a few months after Raqqahs conquest. His then fast-expanding realm in Syria and Iraq, by the groups logic, was a caliphate a bold departure from jihadist tradition of fielding a nimble guerrilla army rather than seeking to seize and hold territory. Under Islamic State, Raqqah was unquestionably an emblem, but one with an array of practical roles: administrative center, operations hub, recruitment magnet for foreign jihadis, planning headquarters for sophisticated attacks including major strikes in Paris in 2015 and Brussels the following year. Raqqah was central to the trappings of statehood the group managed to achieve: coining money, levying taxes, printing passports, setting up a mind-numbing bureaucracy, flying its ubiquitous black flag. The citys practical importance as a capital had faded even before the battle to recapture it entered a decisive phase four months ago, but its loss, coupled with the retaking of Iraqs second-largest city of Mosul in July, was seen as heralding the end of the so-called caliphate, at least as a territorial entity. How did Islamic State control the citys population? Some 300,000 people, the majority of them Sunni Arabs but with substantial minority groups, including Kurds and Christians and Shiite Muslims, were living in Raqqah when nationwide protests erupted against the government of President Bashar Assad in 2011. Strategically located 230 miles northeast of Damascus, the nations capital, Raqqah was the first major city to fall to Syrian rebels, but infighting among them led to a takeover in early 2014 by Al Qaeda remnants that had coalesced into Islamic State. The groups fighters imposed a reign of terror that included baroque punishments, public executions, sexual enslavement of captives and the indoctrination of children. But it also used a clever means of control that would become a trademark elsewhere: if people kept quiet and followed the groups rigorous rules, they could live some semblance of their normal lives, even amid the larger chaos of Syrias civil war. Resistance often took the form of clandestine communication with the outside world, including the work of an online collective called Raqqa Is Being Slaughtered Silently. What were some of the worst atrocities committed in Raqqah? In addition to the suffering of Raqqahs own people and of Islamic State captives from ethnic groups such as the Yazidis, a procession of Western hostages, including American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, met a gruesome fate in the featureless dry hills outside the city. Their beheadings were the subjects of slick, highly orchestrated propaganda videos that Islamic State gleefully used to capture worldwide attention and boost recruitment of foreign fighters. The groups brutality was calculatedly theatrical, played out in acts such as the burning alive in a cage of a Jordanian pilot captured near Raqqah a killing also captured on video. Raqqah was also where the young American aid worker Kayla Mueller is thought to have spent the entirety of her captivity. She was sexually enslaved by Baghdadi, according to those held with her, but helped two young Yazidi girls imprisoned in the same household to escape. Islamic State said Mueller died in an airstrike by the U.S.-led coalition confronting Islamic State; U.S. officials disputed that account but confirmed her death to her family in 2015. What happens now? Raqqah lies in ruins, much of it leveled by ground fighting and by coalition airstrikes which, by the tallies of monitoring groups, killed hundreds of civilians. The humanitarian group Save the Children said Tuesday that some 270,000 people would require urgent assistance, and probably faced years in camps for the displaced. Islamic States fighters have dispersed or regrouped farther downstream along the Euphrates to towns and villages near Dair Alzour. But few observers expect the group to fade away altogether. A member of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), backed by US special forces, stands on a building near Raqas stadium as they are clear the last positions on the front line in Raqqa on Oct. 16. (Bulent Kilic / AFP / Getty Images ) laura.king@latimes.com @laurakingLAT All material is subject to strictly enforced copyright terms & conditions and cannot be repurposed or reproduced. 19882022 Latin American Financial Publications Inc. The State Property Fund of Ukraine (SPF) plans in 2018 to sell Odesa Port-Side Chemical Plant, Centrenergo, Turboatom, six regional power supply companies, the Agrarian Fund, the State Food and Grain Corporation of Ukraine, acting SPF head Vitaliy Trubarov has stated. "The fund expects the transfer of the Agrarian Fund and the State Food and Grain Corporation of Ukraine. As for Turboatom, we are now working with the Cabinet to determine the size of the stake which will be put up for sale," he said at a meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce. Trubarov informed that an inventory has already been completed at Odesa Port-Side Chemical Plant, while the starting price of the enterprise will be determined in November. "In November we will get the starting price, and in December this year, if all participants in the process meet the deadlines, we'll manage to start accepting applications from potential investors so that we could start the sale itself in spring 2018," the SPF head said. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has called on Maltese companies to expand their business presence in Ukraine. "We invite Maltese companies to expand their business presence in Ukraine, their activities in Ukraine, and to launch new projects," he said during the Ukrainian-Malta business forum in Kyiv on Tuesday. Poroshenko said that all talks with representatives of Malta brought important results and also expressed confidence in the excellent future of the Ukrainian-Maltese investment cooperation. According to an Interfax-Ukraine reporter, during the business forum the chambers of commerce and industry of Ukraine and Malta signed an agreement on the creation of the Ukrainian-Maltese business council. According to a press release by the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in January-June 2017, mutual trade in services amounted to $84.9 million, or 10.1% ($7.8 million) more than in the same period in 2016. Exports of services grew by 12.5% ($5.6 million), to $50.5 million, while imports rose by 6.7% ($2.2 million), to $34.4 million. Ukraine's surplus of trade in services amounted to $16.1 million. Ukraine exports mainly IT services (70%) and transport services (23.5%) to Malta, while importing travel-related services (98.7%). As of July 1, 2017, direct investment from Malta in the Ukrainian economy (in share capital) reached $58.5 million (Maltese investment accumulated in Ukraine has grown by $1.6 million since the beginning of the year). Investigators of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) have detained Trade Commodity investor Volodymyr Trofymenko, the Ukrainska Pravda online news site has reported, with reference to the company's press service. According to the report, Trofymenko was delivered to NABU on Surikova Street in Kyiv on Monday, October 16. "Trofymenko was detained almost immediately after his joint press conference with another Trade Commodity investor, Andriy Adamovsky, which was held on Monday morning," the report says. Adamovsky said at the press conference that he was an investor of Trade Commodity, but not a shareholder. "I want to say that neither I nor Mr. Volodymyr Trofymenko are shareholders of Trade Commodity. We are simply investors, but we finance various projects," he said. Adamovsky said that all actions by the company's management were legal. The businessman also denied MP Oleksandr Hranovsky's connection with Trade Commodity. A defense lawyer for Trade Commodity, former Deputy Prosecutor General Vitaliy Kasko, in turn, said at the press conference that his clients had not violated anything during the purchase of fuel by the Ukrainian Defense Ministry. "The law allows the parties to enter into additional agreements in case of fluctuations in the price of products on the market. Moreover, the agreement with the specification of prices was signed by both the company and the Defense Ministry," Kasko said. As reported, on October 11, NABU detectives, under the procedural leadership of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), detained a deputy defense minister and the director of the department of state procurement and supply of material resources of the Defense Ministry on suspicion of involvement in embezzling over UAH 149 million in state funds during the purchase of fuel for the ministry. NABU detectives and SAPO prosecutors conducted a series of searches and detained two officials. According to investigators, in early 2016, the Defense Ministry's tender committee organized an open bidding procedure for the purchase of liquid fuel. Following the trade on April 26, 2016, the committee on 14 lots approved for payment the proposals of one of the bidders as most economically profitable. On May 13 and May 18, 2016, the Defense Ministry and the winner of the bidding signed 14 contracts for the supply of fuel for special purpose vehicles at the expense of the state budget for a total of over UAH 1 billion. A source told Interfax-Ukraine that Deputy Defense Minister Ihor Pavlovsky "who was engaged in procuring resources" was detained on October 11. The second detainee was not named, however, Hromadske TV, referring to its sources, said the issue concerned the director of the Defense Ministry's department of state procurement, Volodymyr Hulevych. On October 12, two more Defense Ministry officials were notified of suspicion in the embezzlement of state funds an employee of a unit of the department of state procurement and supply of material resources and an employee of the internal audit department of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry. Kyiv's Solomiansky District Court chose a measure of restraint for Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Ihor Pavlovsky and Director of the Defense Ministry's Department of State Procurement Volodymyr Hulevych in the form of round-the-clock house arrest. Bloc of Petro Poroshenko MP Serhiy Leschenko, in turn, wrote on his Facebook page that the detentions in the Defense Ministry and the criminal case were connected with the Trade Commodity company. On Wednesday, Bethlehem is holding its first community meeting to discuss its 10 year plan to revitalize neighborhoods surrounding Thomas Jefferson and William Penn elementary schools. NorthSide 2027 is a partnership between the city, the Bethlehem Area School District, Moravian College, businesses and residents. "It is a strategy for strengthening the neighborhoods north of the historic Downtown," Mayor Bob Donchez said. "One focus is to encourage rental properties to convert back into owner-occupied residences." The Wednesday afternoon meeting marks the first time NorthSide 2027 partners will outline what investments they hope to make in the surrounding neighborhoods in the coming years. "NorthSide 2027 is about revitalizing and reinvesting in our neighborhoods," said city council President J. William Reynolds. "It is an exciting initiative that will improve the quality of life for the city of Bethlehem and its residents." The meeting is being held at 4 p.m. at Moravian College in room 131 of the new Sally Breidegam Miksiewicz Center for Health Sciences, 1107 Main St. Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Wells Fargo announced it is closing its call center in Bethlehem, the last of the bank's call centers in the Lehigh Valley. Employees were told the news Tuesday morning at the call center at 1015 Club Ave., Wells Fargo spokesman James Baum said. The move affects about 460 employees, although the exact number will be filed Wednesday in the company's official Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) notice to the state. The WARN notice is the beginning of the 60-day closure period, Baum said. Hopefully employees will be able to stay with Wells Fargo "in some capacity," Baum said. Meetings are planned for each employee with the human resources department. The bank will offer severance packages based on an employee's time with the company as well as career track assistance and resources, Baum added. The call center is part of the Lehigh Shopping Center near the border between Bethlehem and Allentown. In 2007, Wells Fargo moved 375 employees from Whitehall Township to the Lehigh Shopping Center location. Five years later, the company announced it was closing its Lehigh Street call center in Allentown and moving those 450 jobs to Wells Fargo's Lehigh Shopping Center facility. It also cut 190 positions at the Bethlehem center in the auto finance section, but that part of the business was later moved out of the call center. The Bethlehem center currently handles customer service and sales calls. Baum said the company began looking at call volume and saw calls were declining to the center. That's due in part to people using self-serve options, and mobile and online banking, he said. Baum said he was not aware of any other closures. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A 52-year-old Quakertown man was intoxicated when he drove the wrong way on Interstate 78 in Lehigh County and struck two oncoming cars, police report. David P. Gunn drove a 2003 Toyota Sequoia east just before 5 p.m. Sept. 13 in the westbound lanes of the highway in Upper Macungie Township and struck a 2013 Toyota Camry driven in a center lane by William J. Derer, 65, police said. The collision pushed the Camry into the center median, Pennsylvania State Police said. Gunn kept going and hit a 2013 Chevrolet Cruze driven in the right lane by Matthew F. Smith, 51, police said. Gunn tried to flee but the SUV came to a stop on the ramp to Route 22 West, police said. Gunn was taken for treatment to Lehigh Valley Hospital in Salisbury Township, while Deer suffered a minor injury and Smith wasn't hurt, police said. Gunn will be charged with driving under the influence, police said. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Kyiv is grateful to the authorities of Malta for supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and independence, as well as for extending sanctions against Russia, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said. "We are grateful to Malta for continuing the sanctions against the Russian Federation in connection with the annexation of Crimea and the aggression in the east of our state," Poroshenko said during a meeting with Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca in Kyiv on Tuesday. He stressed that Malta has always supported Ukraine's sovereignty and independence and remains a reliable partner. "We felt your support both at the bilateral level, and within the framework of the European Union, within the framework of the UN," Poroshenko said. A driver says his foot slipped off the brake, causing his 2008 Jeep to slam into a business Tuesday morning in Hackettstown, according to town police. The business, Scrub-A-Dug Doggie at 283 Main St. (Route 46) near Center Street, suffered heavy damage to the front entrance and windows and to its structure, town police Sgt. Darren Tynan said in a news release. It was closed at the time of the crash about 9:45 a.m., police said, and must remain closed until the building's structural integrity can be evaluated. The driver, 76-year-old Normal Barrier, of Budd Lake, New Jersey, suffered a cut to his face but refuse medical treatment, according to police. A witness described the vehicle going in reverse on Center Street then proceeding forward, crossing Main Street and crashing through the building, according to police. Police cited Barrier for careless driving. Hackettstown's construction officer and the Mount Olive Township fire marshal assisted police. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A New Jersey doctor's medical license was suspended in 2004, but that didn't keep him from practicing, according to prosecutors. Now the doctor, Paramjit Singh, and the founder of Medical Care Associates -- the Warren and Morris county practices for which he works -- face criminal charges, the Warren County Prosecutor's Office announced Tuesday amid an investigation involving local, state and federal authorities. Medical Care Associates has offices in Hackettstown and Washington Township in Warren County and Roxbury Township in Morris County. Any patient of Singh's is asked to contact the Warren County prosecutor's tip line at 908-475-6643 or 866-942-6467. Paramjit Singh. (Courtesy photo) Singh, 59, of the 200 block of Franklin Street in Hackettstown, had his New Jersey license suspended in 2004. The year before, his license had been suspended in Ohio and West Virginia after he was convicted in Ohio on a drug possession charge that January, according to the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners. Singh had also let his New Jersey license lapse in 1995, the board said in its suspension. Singh is now charged with one count of practicing medicine without a license. It is not clear if he has been practicing since his suspension or if he started more recently, Warren County Prosecutor Richard Burke said. Meanwhile, Medical Care Associates founder Parminderjeet Sandhu, 64, of the 100 block of Naughright Road in Morris County's Washington Township, is charged with aiding or abetting another to practice medicine without a license. The third-degree charges carry a maximum possible sentence of five years in prison and a $75,000 fine if convicted. Sandhu opened the Hackettstown office in 1986 and specialized in internal medicine for 30 years, according to the practice's website. A message left at his home late Tuesday morning seeking comment was not immediately returned. Singh, whose home number could not be located, was not listed on the Medical Care Associates site as of Tuesday morning. No one else in the practice is accused of any wrongdoing. Burke said his office was tipped off by a patient within the last two weeks, and acted quickly to charge Singh due to public safety concerns. The ongoing investigation involves local police departments, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and the FBI. The prosecutor said his office has been inundated with tips since the charges were announced Tuesday morning. He called for patience from the callers as his office sifts through all the information. Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Burglars saw their opportunity in Mountmellick ahead of Hurricane Ophelia in the early hours of Monday morning, October 16. The Coffee Pot cafe at Davitt Shopping Centre & Medical Complex in Mountmellick was broken into and the a small sum of cash left in the till overnight was stolen. The incident took place around 5:15am, before the storm had hit Ireland. Manager of The Coffee Pot, Eoghan O'Riordan said that between having no money in the till and Huricane Ophelia, the cafe had to remain closed after the incident. "It is never easy for a small business to get broken into, but we are back in business today," he said. Supervalu in Mountmellick, beside The Coffee Pot, was locally reported to be like Christmas Eve with shelves clearing fast as people prepared for the storm. Gardai are are investigating the incident and appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. More about the cafe: The Coffee Pot Mountmellick is an air conditioned cafe, located in the Davitt Shopping Centre & Medical Complex. Serving all day breakfast, home baked bread and cakes. It also has gluten free soups and breads and vegetarian foods. Free parking is available as is free WiFi. The staff are friendly and experienced and provide a full table service, so no queueing at the counter is necessary, just take a seat and staff will take your order at your table. Irish Water says it is working to restore water and secure supply for Laois customers in the wake of Storm Ophelia. It has given an update on the situation in the county late Tuesday afternoon. The power supply to the Arles Water Treatment Plant and the Coolenaugh Water Treatment Plant has been restored and all customers are reported to have their water supply restored. There is a power outage at the Drim Water Treatment Plant which supplies water to Mountrath. Irish Water, through Laois County Council, have diverted water across the network to ensure that all customers in Mountrath have a water supply. Power has been restored at the Rosenallis Water Treatment Plant and the plant is back in production. Customers continued to be supplied with water throughout the power outage as there was adequate water storage in the reservoir. Rathdowney is supplied from the Galmoy Public Water Supply Scheme in Kilkenny. The water levels in the reservoir are depleting. Irish Water working to restore supply as soon as possible. See also: Storm Brian heading this way next weekend Irish Water said it also has a number of wastewater treatment plants and a significant number of sewage pumping stations where power failure is resulting in discharge of untreated or partially treated wastewater to receiving waters. "As with drinking water, the number of installations affected are being reduced as power supplies are restored. We currently estimate that approximately 30 wastewater treatment plants are without power nationally. Our focus now is to get these plants fully operational as soon as possible. "The Irish Water Crisis management team will be maintained in place until these issues are fully addressed. Our focus today is on working with ESB Networks to prioritise schemes for power restoration, looking at options for supplies which may continue to be affected including deploying generators where this is practical and making emergency tankered supplies available where necessary. We will be providing information to communities affected and contacting vulnerable customers who need support." At the moment Irish Water estimate that there are: 69,000 customers with no supply (down from 109,000 at the peak) Where customers were reliant on water storage this number has decreased by 260,000 to just over 100,000 and their full supply has been restored. Counties worst affected by the outages are Cork and Waterford See also: This Laois business had a great solution to the power outage during Hurricane Ophelia As Laois and the rest of the country come to terms with the destruction caused by Hurricane Ophelia, a new storm is on its way. Ophelia did not stop burglars at Laois coffee shop. Storm Brian is to pass through Ireland later this week bringing strong winds and rain. This new storm will not help the ESB Network workers as 245,000 people are without power in Ireland. The ESB have warned that it could be days before power is restored to all customers. Met Eireann has said that Storm Brian will be nothing like a hurricane but will bring strong winds and rain throughout the country. It is expected to hit the UK harder than Ireland. Wind and rain will begin on Thursday with Storm Brian expected to hit on Friday. Cool & bright today with good spells of sunshine & just some well scattered showers.W breezes will continue E through the day. Highs 11/14C Met Eireann (@MetEireann) October 17, 2017 Three people were killed during Hurricane Ophelia, which left a trail of destruction. Water outages are being dealt with in Laois. People are still without power around the county. 108 calls were logged to the Severe Weather Communication Centre in Laois. The local number for the Severe Weather Communication Centre is 1890837273 and this has been staffed from 7am this morning. Please be advised if you require the assistance of the emergency services please dial 999 or 112. Minister for Health, Simon Harris has thanked staff in the health services for their exceptional work during Storm Ophelia. "(Monday) has been a difficult and challenging (day) for our health services and I want to thank all of those who came to work and went above and beyond," he said. "We do expect some continued disruption over the coming days but we can expect a gradual return to normal services and that is now our priority." Minister Harris said that if you have an appointment today (Tuesday, October 17), turn up as planned unless you hear otherwise. He stressed that, in the event of a cancellation, patients will be contacted. People can expect some delays in their appointments and discharges from hospitals over the next few days, he added noting the main focus of community services today and in the coming days will be dealing with the most vulnerable patients. Noting that Emergency Departments and GPs are expected to be very busy following the disruption of yesterday, Minister Harris asked people who don't have an appointment and whose issue isn't urgent, to refrain from attending their GP or local hospital. Leitrim is counting the cost this morning after Hurricane Ophelia battered the country on Monday. People are being advised to be extremely vigilant if they are out and about in the coming days as trees, electrical power lines and other structures may be unsecure and hazardous. People should be particularly careful around farm yards, warehouses, industrial areas and derelict buildings. Power Nationwide, up to 240,000 people are still without electricity as a result of Ophelia. ESB crews were working last night as the storm passed and power has been restored to many homes, bringing down the numbers affected from a peak of 360,000. Crews will be out today and in the coming days to restore power, a process that is somewhat complicated by structural damage and debris. ESB Networks have warned that it may be eight days before everyone has seen their power restored. Follow live outage updates on www.esb.ie. Water Meanwhile, the Operational Planning and Emergency Manager at Irish Water, Katherine Walshe, said around 92 schemes are at risk, serving 360,000 people, if power is not restored in some areas before lunchtime. "This impacts customers where storage isn't available in the reservoirs or where the water quality cannot be guaranteed," she said. This issue is predominantly affecting the south of the country, although there are reported water outages locally throughout the country. Burst water mains also pose a flooding risk in local areas. The majority of problems for Irish Water are in counties Cork, Kerry, Wexford, Waterford, Galway, Leitrim, Westmeath and Cavan. Find out more on www.water.ie. The Human Cost Hurricane Ophelia took a considerable human cost, claiming three lives and endangering hundreds more. A woman died in Waterford after a tree fell on her car, while a man was killed in a similar incident in Dundalk. A third man passed away in Tipperary in an incident with a chainsaw as he attempted to clear a tree from a road. There were numerous stories of near misses with trees falling on occupied cars around the country. The HSE has warned that A&E departments will be busier than normal today as hospitals resume full duties, including outpatient procedures, which were cancelled yesterday. Transport On the transport front, most services, including Irish Rail and Bus Eireann, have resumed, but they are warning of running delays caused by fallen trees and lines on routes. They have urged people to check with their provider before travelling and to expect delays as the clean-up continues. A number of Irish Rail services, mostly between Galway, Limerick and Dublin, are running at reduced capacity. The Luas remains out of action until 12pm today when a meeting will be held to discuss its return to service. Hundreds of flights were cancelled yesterday but Dublin Airport is now running a full service, although passengers are advised to check with their airline before travelling to the terminal. Risk of Flooding The timing of the storm on Monday coincided with low tides in most areas, reducing the risk of serious flooding. There is issues with flooding locally due to burst water mains and pipes, but coastal flooding has not become a problem as a result of Hurricane Ophelia. Flooding alerts in places like Limerick were cancelled as Ophelia passed over quickly without significant sea issues. Spot flooding has been reported in some areas, predominantly along the South West coast, and caution is advised in those areas with sitting water on some roads and walking routes. Schools & Colleges The Department of Education took the decision on Monday evening to keep schools closed again on Tuesday. This decision caused widespread disruption to parents who were due back at work, but the Department justified the call by suggesting it gives schools a chance to assess the damage/power/water situation before taking in hundreds of children. It is expected that 90% of schools will re-open on Wednesday but parents are urged to check with their child's school before travelling. Structural damage has been caused to some school buildings, mostly in the South West, posing a potential health and safety risk to pupils and staff. Most third level colleges opened on Tuesday and are now set to remain open in the long-term without disruption. Storm Brian The Irish Times reported on Tuesday morning that Ireland may yet suffer more stormy conditions at the weekend. Weather charts show that Storm Brian is tracking towards Ireland and the UK, bringing with it winds of up to 140km/h. You can keep up to date with all weather updates and warning on www.met.ie. Senator Frank Feighan has congratulated fellow Boyle native Paul Young whose animation studio Cartoon Saloon has just been nominated for an Emmy for their Irish childrens TV series, Puffin Rock. This nomination is another recognition of Cartoon Saloons huge standing within the industry internationally. Kilkenny-based Cartoon Saloon is already a twice Academy Award and BAFTA nominated animation studio which was co-founded by Paul Young, who is company CEO. Now, the companys very successful Puffin Rock series is among the nominations for the International Emmy Kids Awards, which were announced yesterday by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The childrens TV series, which airs on Nick Jr, RTE Jr and Netflix, has been a huge international success and has been dubbed in 28 languages. Puffin Rock also has another strong Boyle connection as the series is narrated by well-known actor, Chris ODowd. I wish Paul and the Cartoon Saloon team the very best of luck at the International Emmy Kids Awards, which will be presented in Cannes in April 2018," said Senator Feighan. An exclusive interview of IMF First Deputy Managing Director David Lipton with the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency. It is a month has passed since your visit to Kiev. Seems just like yesterday. Quick month. Still, during this time the Rada has adopted pension reform. There were, however, concerns expressed by the IMF about the amendments made to the bill, as well as about other negative signals coming from Ukraine. So could you clarify the IMF's conditions for this review and comment on how well we move on in our commitments after your visit? On the pension reform, we have agreed with the government the principles that the pension reform will be based on. Those included budgetary savings and making sure that the pensions for those who retire will really provide a decent standard of living. We had not a chance to look at the final legislation yet. What we will be looking at is whether the principles that we have laid down are reflected in the final bill. The main objective of the program in Ukraine at this stage is to move from stabilization to structural reforms. For example, there is a benchmark on creation of the anticorruption court. Last week, the Venice Commission expressed a view about that and there has been some further discussion on that in Kiev. What is important for us and what was agreed during my visit was that there would be the creation of an anticorruption entity that satisfied key principles; that would be efficient and effective. For us efficiency and effectiveness means very importantly that the selection process for judges who will serve on that entity be sound, ensuring their integrity and professional quality. There is also a benchmark that has to do with the privatization legislation and our people are looking at that legislation. In addition to these reforms, to move forward, there are also some questions about whether past reforms are being maintained and carried through. One area is gas tariffs and the gas system. There has been some discontent about the lack of progress in improving governance at Naftogas. One of the major accomplishments of the program has been that the gas system has been improved, the gas subsidies removed, and finances of the gas system normalized. Ukraine, for the first time in a very long period, has not imported gas from Russia and created better incentives for domestic energy production. We want to see that these very important steps that Ukraine has taken are maintained and built upon further. Another part is about the routine adjustment of gas tariffs. Once you get the elimination of the implicit subsidies that were provided before, tariffs have to move with international market prices: when gas prices go up tariffs go up; when gas prices go down tariffs go down. A formula was agreed for that. The budget has been submitted and we need to make sure we understand all the details. Hitting budget targets is not an easy thing and obviously depends also on how robust the economy is. We will be looking whether the budget is strong enough under these circumstances. Regarding the budget, there is a risk that Ukraine may breach the fiscal deficit target for this year. If so, will it have implications to the program, in special to the IMF's budgetary proposals for the year 2018? There are two aspects. One is what policy is embedded in the budget and the other is whether the economy is strong and as a result the tax revenue base is strong. We have to look at both of those issues. Over the last few years, the maintenance of budget discipline in Ukraine has been good and has been part of the substantial improvement in macroeconomic policies. It has helped Ukraine to move to a much more stable situation. According to the projected payments to Fund the first large repayments on the EFF Arrangement come due in 2018. Taking into account some delay in withdrawing funds and in building up of the NBU's reserves, is this possible that these repayments will be offset by the next tranches? The important thing for Ukraine is to carry forward with its economic reforms and reach agreement with the IMF on the next review so that we can continue to help Ukraine by disbursing more money and creating an environment, in which other money can flow in. The European Union is set to disburse money if the policy environment is satisfactory, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has a number of operations that would bring money to Ukraine. There are many other flows that might be available to Ukraine, not to mention just as the results of stronger economic activity. They would help create a stronger foundation for Ukraine going forward. In general, how do you assess medium-term risks to the country against recent liability-management operation and upcoming pre-election year of 2018? If Ukraine decides to pause in reforms or take a step back, it may lose the benefits of the progress that it has made so far. That is something that has happened before in Ukrainian history, more than once. If Ukraine pushes forward, there will be opportunities for liability management and to continue to strengthen the foundation of public finances. What is at stake is whether Ukraine can solidify the stabilization and begin a period of growth, which can help solve its problems. It is a key moment and it is not a moment to start thinking about elections. The elections are still very substantially in the future. This is a moment to try to press ahead and make more progress. Then everyone will be able to have an election period in the environment of a stronger economy. There were some talks last month about drafting so called "Marshal Plan" for Ukraine. According to estimations of its initiators if Ukraine receives annual investment of $5 billion its economic growth will be 6-8% of GDP. Have you heard how realistic are these, let's say alternative to the EFF program, intentions? I have never heard anything about that idea, and if there were some governments making such preparations, I would know about it. It is nevertheless entirely realistic for Ukraine to believe that if it presses ahead with reforms, there can be very large-scale financial inflows, whether it is more borrowing from market or whether it is attracting investment. The greatest prospect for Ukraine is to start to attract investments into the country that will begin to create links in the European supply chain the way German and Scandinavian firms have supply chain links in Poland and other Central European countries. With Ukraine's talented and educated workforce and wage levels, the future for Ukraine is to become part of Europe not by some negotiated agreements, but by investment that begins to link the economy of Ukraine with the economy of Europe. The benefits that could come from that would be very substantial in comparison with the numbers you are talking about. And the last question to conclude: have you already the date for the next Mission coming to Kiev and some preliminary time horizon for the fifth tranche might be disbursed? We have not discussed the date for the mission. Rather we have been focused on discussion of the policy steps needed to be able to move forward. A COURT has been asked to make no order in the case of a Limerick man who killed his partner and who allegedly breached the terms of his suspended sentence. Kieran Lynch, aged 50, who is originally from Francis Street, Askeaton was sentenced to life imprisonment in March 2007, after a Central Criminal Court jury found him guilty of the murder of 36-year-old Catherine McEnery. Lynch had pleaded not guilty to murdering the mother of his son at their home, 'Rose Cottage', in Craughwell, Co Galway on July 17, 2005. They had been living together for ten years and had moved into the traditional cottage the previous month. Lynch successfully appealed against his murder conviction and a new trial was ordered. He brought the appeal in December 2013, focusing on two issues: the trial judges charge to the jury on provocation and a motion to introduce fresh evidence to the case. The Court of Criminal Appeal heard that Lynch had a near drowning experience and was given medication of a particularly high dosage shortly before the killing. Extensive reports on the effect of benzodiazepine abuse were prepared for the appeal court and it quashed the conviction last year. Lynch was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court in May of last year and pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. In July of last year, he was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment with the last four years suspended. At the time, Lynch entered the witness box and entered a bond to be of good behaviour for two years and to abide by the directions of theprobation services. He thanked the judge and walked free from the Criminal Courts of Justice a short time later as he had already served his time. In July of this year, the court heard allegations that Lynch had failed to comply with the conditions of his suspended sentence in that he had failed to appear at four appointments with the Probation Services and was not residing at the appropriate address. The matter was listed for hearing this Tuesday and when the case was called, Anne Marie Lawlor SC, prosecuting, asked Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy to make no order. The judge agreed saying he would strike out the proceedings. GARDAI are appealing for witnesses following an incident in Limerick city centre at the weekend during which a number of people sustained significant injuries. The attack happened at Todds Bow around 11.30pm last Friday October 13 as the group were walking through the alleyway which links William Street, Cruises Street and Denmark Street. According to gardai, the group were initially accosted verbally by another group of up to six people before they were set upon and physically attacked. All three injured parties suffered significant injuries, said a garda spokesperson. The second group is said to have included five young men and a woman. Gardai believe there were witnesses to the incident as it happened at a busy time on a Friday night. There must have been witnesses to this unprovoked attack on three people who were out to enjoy themselves in Limerick on this night. The people of limerick are proud of their city and this is not the kind of incident we want to portray our lovely city, said the spokesperson. Gardai at Henry Street are investigating and can be contacted at 061-212400. A LITHUANIAN man is due to appear in court again this Tuesday after he was charged with stealing ink cartridges worth 1,300. Mindgugas Butkus, aged 28, is accused of stealing the ink cartridges from Tesco at the Crescent Shopping Centre in Dooradoyle on October 6, last. Detective Garda Paul Crowley told Limerick District Court the defendant replied I want to say sorry but I had no choice, when he was formally charged with the offence following his arrest. In his reply, Mr Butkus added: When I realised the job they offered me, I wanted to go back home. Sorry. Judge Marie Keane was told there is an issue surrounding the identity of the defendant and solicitor John Herbert said his client was not applying for bail. The matter was adjourned to this Tuesday to allow gardai to make further inquiries and to seek the directions of the DPP. Judge Keane directed that an interpreter be present in court for the hearing. A PROPOSED fast food take away in Limerick city got the green light from An Bord Pleanala after it was criticised for its potential to negatively impact on the area. The applicant Moveford Limited proposed to develop a KFC outlet at Clonmacken on the Ennis Road, and received the go-ahead from Limerick City and County Council on March 3 last. The single-storey proposed development will be located near the Ennis Road Retail Centre, Jetland Shopping Centre, Lidl and Supermacs restaurant. However, the Councils decision was later appealed and brought to An Bord Pleanala, on the basis of take-away saturation in the vicinity, traffic hazard, legal issues, and impact in the residential area. One appellant, submitted through Connellan and Associates, said that the restaurant will encourage drivers to park on the Ennis Road, and will be an obstruction to road users. The appellant argued that the retail park area would not support a restaurant, drive through, or take away of its scale, and that there would be an overconcentration of take away facilities. It was argued that the KFC would have an adverse impact on the residential amenity. The second appellant Keelside Ltd argued that the applicant had not secured the landlords consent in respect of the application and the planning authority has erred in its decision. The applicant argued that it is not primarily a take away, and that it will serve to enhance the choice of retail service amenities and food offering at this location. It added that it will bring additional animation to the area, and that it is adequately separated from neighbouring housing. The An Bord Pleanala inspector said that the proposed development would not seriously injure the amenities of the area or of property in the vicinity. An Bord Pleanala stated in its report that it would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and convenience and it would not be prejudicial to public health. An Bord Pleanala upheld the councils decision on October 6. A NUMBER of homes in Limerick city were evacuated overnight following the discovery of a suspected grenade outside a house in the Pennywell area. The alarm was raised shortly before 11pm after the device was discovered by a local resident on a footpath at Cathedral Court. Gardai from Henry Street attended the scene and a number of houses were evacuated for several hours pending the arrival of an Army Bomb Disposal Team from Collins Barracks in Cork. A spokesperson for the Defence Forces has confirmed a controlled explosion was carried out on the device dating back to the 1970s which had failed to detonate. The scene was declared safe at 3.18am and the remains of the device handed over to investigating gardai. Earlier this morning, an Army Bomb Disposal Team conducted a controlled explosion on a grenade in the Pennywell Road area of Limerick city. pic.twitter.com/YurS8hkYuA Irish Defence Forces (@defenceforces) October 17, 2017 Nobody was injured as a result of the incident. One line on enquiry being pursued by gardai is that the device was deliberately left in the area. Residents in the area were reluctant to speak about the incident when asked for their reaction this Tuesday morning. A COUNTY Limerick GAA complex, which has been in the works for over a year, suffered damage when the roof was blown off during Storm Ophelia. Crooms new GAA facility was damaged during the ex-hurricane, ahead of its opening this month. The grand opening of the complex was due to take place on October 28, but it has now been postponed. The fundraising ball on October 29 in the Woodlands House Hotel, at which DJ Carey will make an appearance, will still go ahead, and tickets are on sale from members of Croom GAA. Meanwhile, members of the committee are due to assess the damage today and decide on plans for the repairs so that the facility can be opened. Ophelia certainly made herself known around the entire country, but it is those in rural areas who are particularly feeling the effects of her wrath. Thousands of homes in County Limerick are currently without power, and communities are faced with counting the cost of repairing the damage caused to local facilities. Crews were also spotted working at 8am this Tuesday morning on the roof of Patrickswell church. More than 2,000 customers are still affected by power cuts to the west of Limerick. Up to 600 customers have no power in Kildimo, and a further 400 remain without electricity in the areas surrounding Clarina. Wind seems worse than it was today. The street light outside the house is wobbling. No power. #Kildimo @Limerick_Leader #Ophelia pic.twitter.com/JFZLVz3rf2 Maria Flannery (@mariaflan) October 16, 2017 Another several hundred homes are also without power in Patrickswell, Crecora, Adare and Granagh. Many homes and some businesses in Dromcollogher are still without power this Tuesday morning. The power outage occurred about 2pm yesterday, leaving shops, homes and the post office without electricity. Some businesses are relying on generators. The Respite Care Centre does have electricity but the day care centre, about half a mile away, does not. Up to 100 homes and businesses in Mountcollins are also without electricity since 1pm on Monday. The road to Abbeyfeale was blocked at one stage but this has now been cleared. The road to Tournafulla at Glenquin is still blocked by a fallen tree but a nearby sideroad means traffic can still get through. The town of Abbeyfeale was without power from about 1pm to 4.30pm yesterday and there are unconfirmed reports that a roof was blown off one house in the locality. While electricity is back in the town of Bruff, it remains without water. Areas surrounding the town including Rockbarton, Meanus, Athlacca, Kilteely and Herbertstown and parts of Grange are still out without power. 1/2 Just drove from Limerick city to Kilmallock and here is the current scene in Bruff, hundreds of homes without power pic.twitter.com/toyzCoCTBI Aine Fitzgerald (@AineFitzgeraldA) October 16, 2017 We got electricity back in the town just after five yesterday for about an hour until about 6.20 and it went again and it came back again at around 9.05, explained Mark Nagles of Nagles EuroSpar in Bruff. We are without water here. People are coming in this morning looking for water - there is a big demand. We are using bottled water at the moment. Ishka in Ballyneety will be doing well this week, he smiled. We stayed open as long as we could yesterday. We sent any of the staff who were driving home. A few from the town stayed on. We closed at around 1pm and we opened then again at 5pm when the power came back on, he explained. The town he said was eerie enough while in pitch darkness for several hours. In fairness to the ESB guys, they went out in wild enough conditions yesterday - you have to give them credit. It is kind of wait and see really. The thing is there are so many trees around these areas. They are taking down wires and stuff like that. According to Mark, locals are relieved" its over. There is a lot of concern that there are a few trees gone in The Grove again. A huge amount of work has gone in by Bruff Tidy Towns in the last few months and even since Storm Darwin when a lot of trees were lost there. But in the scheme of things when you see what the three families who lost loved ones are going through, its only very small. Its a clean-up operation really. Damage was also caused to a few sections of fascia on the new primary school in Kilmallock, Scoil Mocheallog and there was also extensive damage caused to the ancient Rathcannon Castle in Athlacca. THE Department of Education and Skills has confirmed that schools across Limerick will re-open this Wednesday after closing for two days during the storm this week. A statement from the department said that schools, VTOS and Youthreach centres will re-open tomorrow and school transport will be back in operation, subject to any damages experienced at a local level. As always, schools must ensure the safety of those in their care and give due consideration to this when making a decision to re-open, said the department. The department said that the Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all those principals, teachers, students and parents who co-operated fully with the safety measures in place over the past two days. The storm battered Limerick from 9am on Monday morning, with winds calming after 2pm. Limerick's third level institutions returned to operation this Tuesday after also closing during the storm yesterday. The department said any schools which require repairs, any non-State owned schools should in the first instance contact their Insurance Providers before contacting the Department regarding emergency funding, for any State owned buildings school authorities are free to apply for funding under my Departments Emergency Works Scheme. A MAN in his early 20s has been rescued from the River Shannon in Limerick city this Tuesday evening, after he apparently went swimming a day after Hurricane Ophelia. Three units of Limerick Fire Brigade were dispatched to the scene at 5.50pm, and left the scene less than 20 minutes later after successfully pulling a young man from the water. It's understood the man may have gotten into difficulty while swimming, after he was observed near the rocks by the Clayton Hotel, formerly the Clarion, on Steamboat Quay. He was rescued by the firefighter's rescue boat, Fireswift, and brought to St Michael's slipway, where he was treated by HSE paramedics, before being brought to the University Hospital Limerick in Dooradoyle. His condition is described as not life-threatening. Limerick Marine Search & Rescue also attended the scene, but said the man was thankfully in the safe hands of the authorities at that stage. 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. Sierra Leones First Lady, Mrs. Sia Nyama Koroma and Chinese Company-BEINGMATE together launched a milk powder donation project on October 11 to promote the development of womens and children's health in Africa. Meantime, a ceremony was held in the Presidential Lodge witnessed by Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone Mr. Wu Peng, acting Sierra Leone Ambassador to China Mrs. Kumba Momoh, Mrs. Mariatu Kargbo the Goodwill Ambassador, and leaders from Ministry of Health, MSWGCA, MOHS, etc. The product will offer nutrition supplement for more than 20,000 1-5 years old children and breastfeeding mothers. Mrs. Foh, Mrs. Koroma, and Mr. Wu Peng in the donation ceremony First Lady Mrs. Koroma said, my first job was working on reduction of women mortality in Africa, I know the importance of nutrition to children, so todays gift is a valuable gift. I appreciate Marias effort in this project and her numerus contributions for the country. BEINGMATE is a leader in Chinese baby industry with high SCR consciousness, this milk powder will give more nutrition to our children. I sincerely thank BEINGMATEs great support on behalf of my husband President Koroma, my office, the mothers and children in Sierra Leone. Mr. Wu Peng remarked that Children are the future of human beings. BEINGMATE is one of the top Chinese brands in supplying baby product and services. The Sierra Leone government and the strong leadership of His Excellency, the President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma have made great efforts in ensuring that the people of Sierra Leone access to adequate food. This donation reflects not only the brotherhood between the two countries but also display social responsibilities of BEINGMATE. Mr. Frank Wang, Director of BEINGMATE International, expressed admiration for Mrs. Koromas continuous efforts to promote women and childrens health development in Africa, BEINGMATE is a leading baby food and service provider in China. In the past 25 years, BEINGMATE has been working closely with world's well-known companies, government agencies and research institutes to develop high quality baby food. With the spirit of LOVE, BEINGMATE is very glad to cooperate with Mrs. Koroma to enhance quality of family life and inspire children in Africa to live healthier and happier. Mrs. Mariatu Kargbo and Mr. Frank Wang distributing milk powder to children It is known that this is the first African donation project by BEINGMATE, which is also of great significance to the development of women's and children's health in Sierra Leone. Next, BEINGMATE will launch donations in SAARC countries to continually help the global babies nutritional supplements. A veteran Contra Costa County judge with an extensive record of discipline was accused by the state Commission on Judicial Performance on Tuesday of further misconduct in two criminal cases. But a lawyer for Superior Court Judge Bruce Mills accused the commission of a conflict of interest because the defendant Mills sentenced in one of the cases has publicly accused the commission of covering up judicial misconduct. The defendant, Joseph Sweeney, who heads an organization called Court Reform LLC, has been among the most prominent voices in a campaign that has led the state auditor to begin a probe of the commissions operations. I think its outrageous that the commission, with a clear conflict of interest, would bring charges against Judge Mills rather than referring the matter ... to an independent body, said the attorney, James A. Murphy. If a judge did what the Commission on Judicial Performance did, the judge would be subject to discipline. The commissions executive director, Victoria Henley, declined to comment. Mills, 62, a former prosecutor,was appointed to the bench by Gov. Pete Wilson in 1995 and has been elected by county voters to a succession of six-year terms, most recently in 2014. The commission privately reprimanded him in 2001 for ignoring a defendants request for a lawyer and trying to coerce the defendant to plead guilty. It publicly reprimanded him again in 2006 for making discourteous and demeaning comments to people appearing in his court. Mills was reprimanded again in 2013 for contacting a juvenile court judge who was hearing a case against Mills son. In one of the new allegations, the commission said Mills sentenced Sweeney, who had been found in contempt of court by another judge in a family law case, to 25 days in jail in August 2016 but told him and his lawyer he could get the sentence cut in half for good behavior. But Mills imposed the sentence without half-time credits, told the sheriffs office not to reduce Sweeneys term, and relented only when Sweeneys lawyer contacted him nine days later, the commission said. In the second case, the commission said, while a jury in Mills court was deliberating drunken-driving charges in March 2016, the judge met privately with the prosecutor, talked about his own experience prosecuting such cases, and mentioned data that might be used to help the prosecution. The jury deadlocked, but Mills did not remove himself from the case until the district attorneys office disclosed the private conversation, the commission said. Murphy, the judges lawyer, said the charges of misconduct in both cases were unfounded. Bruce Mills has had a bulls-eye on his back with the Commission on Judicial Performance, Murphy said. Theyve been after him for years and years for petty things. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @egelko As if last weeks Wine Country infernos werent enough, a new wildfire broke out Tuesday in the Santa Cruz Mountains and quickly spread through dry brush and thick forest, igniting buildings and prompting numerous evacuations around Boulder Creek. Five firefighters were injured and at least four structures were destroyed before dawn after a building fire late Monday night ignited the hills and sent flames sweeping through trees. Wildland fires also popped up in Marin, Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Hundreds of people were briefly evacuated in Dublin after a grass fire swept close to homes in the Tassajara Valley in the late afternoon. Earlier in the day, a car fire near Port Costa lit up the brush-filled hills outside the tiny hamlet, and a brush fire broke out near Wolfback Ridge above Marin City, shutting down the southbound lanes of Highway 101 before firefighters could gain control. All those fires were stopped before they could damage property. But there was no such luck in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Things remained dangerous there all day. Nearly 600 firefighters battled the flames of the Bear Fire, which ignited on Bear Creek Road about 10:30 p.m. Monday, and the effort to prevent another disaster was hampered by steep, sometimes inaccessible terrain, according to Assistant Chief Rob Sherman of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as Cal Fire. The blaze had consumed 271 acres in the steep forested mountains of Santa Cruz County southwest of San Jose by Tuesday evening and was only 5 percent contained. Sherman said during a news conference near the fire that he wasnt sure whether the four burned structures were homes, sheds, garages or outbuildings. The fire sparked up just as thousands of firefighters were getting a handle on a series of wildland blazes throughout Northern California that destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 41 people, including a volunteer firefighter, 38-year-old Garrett Paiz of Missouri, who crashed a water truck near a fire line in Napa County on Monday. The disaster up north was so fresh that many in the Santa Cruz Mountains had a hard time believing their own community could now be burning. I thought it was a joke at first, said Hauslley Silva, 39, who, with his two children, had to flee along with residents of about 150 other homes in the Las Cumbres community, which was being threatened by the advancing flames. Silva got an evacuation call at 11:45 p.m. Monday and said he was tempted to ignore it and go to bed, but remembered the horror stories from North Bay survivors who described being awoken by smoke and flames at their doorsteps. Were all on alert, he said as he and his children stood outside an evacuation center at the Lakeside Elementary School in Los Gatos. The cruel coincidence that Tuesday was the 28th anniversary of the devastating Loma Prieta earthquake, which had its epicenter nearby, was lost on nobody. Residents along Deer Creek Road, Rons Road, Dons Road, Lost Valley Road, Favre Ridge and Oak Ridge were evacuated to emergency shelters at Lakeside Elementary and Zayante Fire Station in Felton. There was no timeline given Tuesday for when the evacuation orders could be lifted. No one is coming back tonight, Angela Bernheisel, a Cal Fire spokeswoman, said Tuesday evening. Five firefighters were taken to a hospital, including a member of an inmate crew who suffered smoke inhalation, one firefighter who fell at least 30 feet and suffered a broken wrist and facial lacerations, and a third who had cuts and a sprained ankle, Sherman said. All but one of the injured firefighters were treated and released. The ground crews, with help from two air tankers and seven helicopters dropping fire retardant and water, had launched a direct attack on the fire, Sherman said. They were being helped by three bulldozers and six water tenders that were shuttling water back and forth between the fire line. Were starting to make some progress, but access is a big issue for us, Sherman said. Its just steep, steep terrain and just hard access trying to get into this thing. Sherman said the firefight was made easier by a lack of offshore winds, which were responsible for fanning nearly two dozen fires into a frenzy last week. We don't have winds, so thats good, he said. The conflagrations over the past week are considered the deadliest cluster of wildfires in California history. They mark the culmination of a bad year overall. As of Oct. 15, California has battled 1,716 more fires than the five-year average for this time of year. The 479,745 acres burned is more than double the five-year average. Of that, 245,000 acres burned in the past week. We are concerned any time we get a new fire start anywhere in the state, said Mike Mohler, a battalion chief at Cal Fires state operations center. The fire in the Santa Cruz Mountains came as a sucker punch to fire officials, who were reporting major strides in containing the deadly wildfires that have devastated Santa Rosa and terrorized numerous Wine Country towns since Oct. 8. Mohler said that the cooler temperatures and rain forecast for later this week are welcome, but that the fire season is a long way from being over, especially in Southern California. We are cautiously optimistic, but we are definitely not out of the woods and weve got a lot of work to do, he said. Not only are we concerned with what we are doing right now, but we have to be ready to move to other parts of the state. Evacuees from the Santa Cruz Mountains fire filled the Lakeside school parking lot and gymnasium Tuesday morning, creating a bit of a logjam as students arrived for classes. Las Cumbres taxidermist Kerwin Schetter said he was awakened at 2 a.m. by sheriffs deputies pounding on his door, their red lights flashing and sirens blaring. I grabbed my mother and my dog and jumped in the car, Schetter said. You could see and smell the fire. There was a bright orange glow on the ridge. Ashes were falling. Schetter said he was forced to leave behind the hides of four dozen deer, pigs, elk and bears that he was keeping in freezers in his shop to preserve while he worked on them. Hopefully theyll still be there when I get back, he said. Im hoping for the best. Cal Fires Bernheisel said emergency vehicles were having difficulty navigating the rough dirt roads and steep slopes leading to the fire. Road closures from the washout of Highway 35 during flooding last winter werent helping, but she said there were promising signs of progress later in the day after an influx of crews and equipment from the Wine Country fires. Resources have trickled in throughout the day coming from Napa and Sonoma County, she said. As long as they have resources to give us, we'll take them. Sherman said the air was fairly dry with relative humidity between 16 percent and 20 percent, which posed a challenge even though the winds were light. Were going to be working right on the fires edge, Sherman said. The idea is to hit it pretty hard with the aircraft and go ahead and hit it with the ground resources at the same time. The fire wasnt progressing rapidly. Its going into heavy brush and timber at a moderate rate of spread, said Ginny Petras of Cal Fire. Fire crews were close to snuffing out the deadliest fire to rage through the Wine Country. The Tubbs Fire, which scorched 36,432 acres and killed 18 people during its rampage from near Calistoga in Napa County to Santa Rosa in Sonoma County was 87 percent contained Tuesday. The 52,894-acre Nuns Fire straddling Sonoma and Napa counties raised havoc over the weekend after it merged with four other fires, but firefighters had built a containment line around 78 percent of the burn area Tuesday, and officials said it was well on its way toward full containment. The 51,064-acre Atlas Fire, which had raged through Wine Country, was 80 percent contained. The tide has turned, said Cal Fire spokesman Jonathan Cox. Lets close the book on these fires. San Francisco Chronicle staff writers Lizzie Johnson and Jenna Lyons contributed to this report. Trisha Thadani, Steve Rubenstein, Peter Fimrite and Kevin Fagan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com; srubenstein@sfchronicle.com; pfimrite@sfchronicle.com; kfagan@sfchronicle.com Helping and getting help FEMA is offering assistance to fire victims. For more information go to www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call (800) 621-3362. The Red Cross is organizing relief efforts in the North Bay. Evacuees trying to connect with family and friends should post on the organizations Safe and Well website: www.redcross.org/safeandwell. Community volunteers who want to help in relief efforts can sign up with the Red Cross at http://tinyurl.com/RedCrossVolOctober2017. Donations to help those affected by California wildfires and other disasters can be made at www.redcross.org. People can also call (800) 733-2767 or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. People needing to report or ask about a missing person in Sonoma County can call the county Fire and Emergency Services Department at (707) 565-3856. For tips on how to prepare for a wildfire, go to: www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/wildfire. For fire information in Sonoma County, call (707) 565-3856. Donations to help fire victims can be made here: https://www.redwoodcu.org/. To help Tubbs Fire victims, donate here: http://biturl.in/64. Food donations can be made at the Redwood Empire Food Bank in Santa Rosa: http://refb.org/. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate These are the developments in the North Bay fires as of 12:15 p.m. Wednesday. Click here to see the latest updates: 12:15 p.m. Flu vaccine clinics closed in Napa County: Napa County Public Health has canceled all free flu vaccine clinics because of the fire response, according to county officials. The clinics are usually run annually during the flu season. Clinics will be rescheduled, officials said. Anyone seeking more information can call (707) 253-4270. 11:33 a.m. Air operations on Bear Fire in Santa Cruz Mountains grounded as officials seek to identify drone: Crucial aerial firefighting operations on the Bear Fire in the Santa Cruz Mountains had stopped since about 10:30 a.m. as officials removed a rogue drone from the area, said Santa Cruz County Sheriffs Office officials. Air operations on the fire resumed about noon. Now Playing: Wine Country Fires Video: San Francisco Chronicle It is against the law to fly a drone in a disaster zone. The incident grounded air operations as authorities seek to identify the owner, said Sgt. Chris Clark, a sheriffs office spokesman. Theres a lot of people trying to put this fire out, Clark said. This only slows that down. The Bear Fire, which started Monday night in a structure off Bear Creek Road near Boulder Creek and spread to vegetation, had burned 271 acres by Wednesday morning and was 10 percent contained, according to Cal Fire estimations. 10:35 a.m. City of Napas Fire and Life Safety Day postponed due to unhealthy air quality from wildfires: Napa Fire Department had announced a month before destructive wildfires hit the region that Fire Life and Safety Day would be held at their No.1 fire station on Oct. 21. But city officials said Tuesday the event was postponed due to poor and unpredictable air quality. 10:05 a.m. President tweets message of support to California first responders: President Trump tweeted , Our hearts are with all affected by the wildfires in California. God bless our brave First Responders and @FEMA team. We support you! The tweet was quoted under a re-tweet of FEMA administrator Brock Long, who had a posted photo Tuesday on Twitter of officials from FEMA, California Office of Emergency Services and Cal Fire surveying fire damage in Santa Rosa. 10 a.m. All evacuation warnings lifted in Mendocino County wildfire zone: All residents in areas of the deadly Mendocino County wildfires no longer need to prepare for further evacuations, Cal Fire announced Monday. Residents had been allowed back to the area by 2 p.m. Monday, but evacuation warnings had remained in place for the Van Arsdale community north of Stroh Ranch on both sides of the Eel River in Potter Valley, including Van Arsdale Road, Oat Gap Road, Ridgewood Road, and all feeder roads in the area. Those warnings are now lifted. Mendocino County was devastated by two fires. All eight deaths in the county stemmed from the 35,800-acre Redwood Valley Fire, now 75 percent contained, which started north of Highway 20 and west of the Mendocino National Forest. The 2,207-acre Sulphur Fire, which started off Highway 20 and Sulphur Bank Road, was 92 percent contained. The fires destroyed 447 homes and hundreds of other structures, according to Cal Fire. The agency expects full containment in the county by Nov. 1, which means the fires will no longer be capable of spreading. 9:25 a.m. Deadliest of Northern California wildfires more than 90 percent contained: The 36,432-acre Tubbs Fire in Sonoma County which accounted for at least 19 of the 42 deaths since wildfires hit the region Oct. 8 is 91 percent contained, according to Wednesday morning Cal Fire estimates. At least 23 people died in Sonoma Countys three major wildfires, with the most recent death confirmed Wednesday morning in the Tubbs Fire. The Sonoma County blazes which include the Pocket and Nuns fires have blackened more than 100,000 acres. The 12,430-acre Pocket Fire is at 63 percent containment and the Sonoma portion of the Nuns Fire, which is also burning in Napa County, is 34,398 acres and 80 percent contained. The Nuns Fire has burned a total of 54,423 acres. Full containment, which means the fires will no longer be able to spread, was expected Friday for Sonoma County. 9:15 a.m. Largest of Northern California wildfires merges with another blaze, but is 80 percent contained: The Nuns Fire straddling Napa and Sonoma counties has now merged with Sonoma Countys Oakmont Fire, the fifth wildfire it has consolidated with, Cal Fire officials said Wednesday. Fortunately, the 54,423-acre fire was 80 percent contained, according to Cal Fire estimates. 8:30 a.m. An estimated 22,000 people remain evacuated in Northern California wildfires: Tens of thousands of people have yet to return home after a series of large wildfires blackened more than 200,000 acres statewide, killing at least 42 people in the northern part of the state and destroying thousands of homes, Cal Fire officials said Tuesday. The agency advised residents who were already given the green light to return home to check out safety tips at www.fire.ca.gov. 6:30 a.m. Death toll rises to 42 in Northern California wildfires: Another fatality was confirmed in the Sonoma County wildfires, bringing the number of deaths in the county to 23 and the overall total to 42 in the Northern California disaster, officials said Wednesday. The death was recorded sometime between Tuesday and Wednesday, said Sonoma County Sheriffs Deputy Brandon Jones. Of the nearly 2,000 missing persons reports, 43 remain outstanding in the county, and 36 were transferred to other jurisdictions. The people named in the remaining 1,827 reports were accounted for, he said. 6 a.m. Countdown to rain one more day: After last weeks dry, warm air and gusty weather aided rapid fire growth of the devastating North Bay wildfires, the temperatures have cooled, winds are light and fog has returned to the Bay Area. By Thursday, much-needed rain is forecast to finally reach the Northern California fire zones. Somewhere between a tenth and a quarter inch of rain is expected in the North Bay, considered a decent rain that gets into the topsoil, said Rick Canepa, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. A cold front coming in has already cooled the air, with relative humidity increasing from the 10 to 20 percent range to the still relatively low 20 to 30 percent range in the fire zones. The North Bay and the Santa Cruz mountains the latest site of an uncontained wildfire should have highs in the 70s, Canepa said. Were at the point where were expecting a whole lot of improvement. It should be noticeable improvement. By late afternoon into the evening it should feel cooler, Canepa said Wednesday morning. Where the fires are at, the winds should be mainly light today. Drizzle could begin as early as Wednesday night, but those amounts would be a barely measurable rainfall that wont do anything. 5:30 a.m. Fallon Fire near Dublin fully contained: The Fallon Fire near Tassajara and Fallon roads in Dublin was 100 percent contained overnight after scorching 118 acres of vegetation and prompting a mandatory evacuation, according to Alameda County Fire Department. Crews responded to the fire about 2 p.m. Tuesday, and fire officials issued a shelter in place order for the Dublin Ranch Golf Course area on the east side of Fallon Road and the Positano community because of heavy smoke in the area. An evacuation order issued for Signal Hill Drive, East Cog Hill Drive and Avalina Drive north to Ducale Way was lifted about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday 8 p.m. New numbers released on major fires: CalFire released new acreage and containment numbers for fires burning in Northern California. The Bear Fire, which started on Monday night, is now 271 acres and 5 percent contained. The Nuns Fire is 52,894 acres and 78 percent contained; the Tubbs Fire 36,432 acres and 87 percent contained and the Atlas Fire 51,064 acres and 80 percent contained. 7:49 p.m Highway 101 fully reopened: All lanes of southbound Highway 101 are open after two small fires prompted a shutdown earlier in the day, California Highway Patrol said. Firefighters from the Marin County and Southern Marin fire departments will be on the scene overnight to tackle remaining hotspots, CHP said, but their work is not expected to impact the roads. 7 p.m. Highway 101 partially reopened: Two lanes on southbound Highway 101 were back open by 3:35 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol. All southbound lanes were closed earlier in the day because of two new vegetation fire near the highway. The fires were each one to two acres in size and were under control earlier Tuesday afternoon. 6:35 p.m. Dublin fire decreases in size: The Alameda County Fire Department said that the Fallon Fire near Dublin is now only 118 acres, down from 180 earlier. The fire is 75 percent contained. 5:35 p.m. Evacuation orders lifted in Dublin: Firefighters made significant progress on the Fallon Fire near Dublin even as the blaze grew to 180 acres. The fire is now 75 percent contained, the Alemeda County Fire Department said, and the fires forward progress has been stopped. All evacuation orders in Dublin have been lifted. 4:53 p.m. More evacuation orders lifted in Napa County: Napa County lifted the mandatory evacuation order for Green Valley Road on Tuesday at 4 p.m. The mandatory evacuation order for Partrick Road will be lifted at 5 p.m. Wild Horse Valley Road east of Green Valley Road will remain under mandatory evacuation. 4:50 p.m. Police request assistance to identify arsonist: Investigators have ruled out all accidental causes for vegetation fire that burned three acres on Sunday afternoon near Seventh Street and Carmel Drive in Novato. The fire prompted a temporary evacuation, threatening a cluster of homes, before it was brought under control in about an hour, Novato police said. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and police have ruled it suspicious in nature. Anyone with information on the incident can contact the Novato Police Department by calling 414-899-7036. 4:39 p.m. Dublin fire spreads: The Alameda County Sheriffs Office said that the Dublin fire has grown to 100 acres and remains 20 percent contained. 4:31 p.m. Mandatory evacuations ordered for parts of Dublin: The Alameda County Sheriffs Office ordered a mandatory evacuation for Dublin on Signal Hill Drive, Eastbound Cog Hill Drive and Avalina North to Ducale. The Wave at Emerald Glen Park is currently serving as an evacuation site. 4 p.m. Shelter in place issued for areas near 40-acre fire in Dublin: A vegetation fire that formed off Tassajara and Fallon roads in Dublin grew to 40 acres and was 20 percent contained Tuesday afternoon, according to the Alameda County Fire Department. A shelter in place order was issued for the Dublin Ranch on the east side of Fallon Road and the Positano communities because of heavy smoke in the area, fire officials said. 3:25 p.m. More acres burned in the last 9 days in California than the past 9 months: The series of deadly wildfires in Northern California, along with wildfires across the state, have burned an estimated 245,776 acres between Oct. 8 and Oct. 16. Thats nearly 12,000 acres more than recorded for the first nine months of the year, in which 233,969 acres burned from Jan. 1 to Oct. 8, according to Cal Fire. During fall is when CA sees some of its most damaging fires. Dont let your guard down - #FireSeason is not over! http://ReadyForWildfire.org, the agency tweeted. Of the top 20 deadliest wildfires in modern state history, three occurred in the past week, and more than half on the list occurred during the month of October. This years Tubbs Fire ranked third on the deadliest list, with 18 fatalities confirmed. Topping the list was the 47-acre Griffith Park Fire in Los Angeles County that killed 29 people in 1933. Second was the 1,600-acre Oakland Hills Fire in 1991 that killed 25 people. Both fires took place in October. 3:15 p.m. Power restored to most Northern California wildfires area, but some 17,000 still without gas: More than 96 percent of the 359,000 Pacific Gas and Electric Company customers who lost power during the wildfires have had electric service restored, the utility said Tuesday afternoon. The energy company cut gas service to 42,000 customers as a precautionary measure due to the wildfires, officials said. More than 25,000 customers have had their gas service restored, PG&E estimated. 2:45 p.m. New vegetation fire starts in Dublin: A vegetation fire that had burned at least 30 acres after starting near Fallon and Tassajara roads in Dublin was spreading at a moderate rate of speed, according to the Alameda County Fire Department. Firefighters responded to the scene shortly before 2 p.m., fire officials said. No structures were threatened. 2:30 p.m. Evacuation orders lifted for some Santa Rosa neighborhoods: Residents of the Oakmont neighborhood in Santa Rosa, including all streets south of Highway 12 and east of Calistoga Road to Pythian Road, will be allowed to return to their homes, according to Santa Rosa Police Department. All northbound roads off Highway 12, including Highway 12 eastbound at Pythian Road, is still under mandatory evacuation. The medical complex located at 3536 and 3540 Mendocino avenues was also cleared to be reopened. Motorists must use Steele Lane and head north to Mendocino Avenue to access the complex, police said. Please drive slowly and yield to emergency personnel in the area. As you re-enter your property and evaluate damage, be aware that hazardous conditions may exist, particularly if a residence or outbuilding has burned, the department statement read. Hazards may include asbestos, heavy metals, byproducts of plastic combustion and various other chemicals. 2 p.m. Some schools in Napa, Sonoma counties to remain closed all week due to wildfires: Napa Valley Unified School District locations will not welcome back students until Monday, Oct. 23, at the earliest, the district announced Tuesday. Earlier, officials had planned to resume classes Wednesday after fires tore through the region. In Sonoma County, schools have various reopening dates. A detailed list of school closures is available online. 1:45 p.m. Volunteer firefighter killed in Northern California wildfires IDd: The volunteer firefighter who was killed when he crashed a water truck near a fire line in Napa County was identified Tuesday by the county coroner as a 38-year-old Missouri man. Garrett Paiz was driving a privately owned water tender on Oakville Grade round 7 a.m. on Monday west of Highway 29 and north of Yountville when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed, California Highway Patrol officials said. Napa Sheriffs deputies, Cal Fire, National Guard units, and various law enforcement agencies escorted Paiz body from the scene, according to a statement from the Napa County Sheriff. Paiz was the latest person to die in a series of Northern California wildfires that began on Oct. 8 and have killed at least 41 people. 1:15 p.m. Brush fire closes southbound Highway 101 near Marin City: All lanes of southbound Highway 101 were closed Tuesday afternoon as crews responded to a new brush fire near the freeway at Rodeo Avenue in Marin City, authorities said. The fire was reported to the California Highway Patrol at 11:58 a.m. Fire crews are on the scene battling the blaze, according to the Mill Valley Police Department. CHP does not have an estimate on when the highway will reopen. Traffic is being diverted off the freeway at Marin City. Drivers should avoid the area. 12:30 p.m. Bear Fire in Santa Cruz Mountains now 200 acres: The wildfire that started at a structure on Bear Creek Road and spread through the Santa Cruz Mountains late Monday grew to 200 acres and was 5 percent contained Tuesday, according to a Cal Fire report. About 150 homes were threatened and four structures had been destroyed. The Santa Cruz County Sheriffs Office released an updated list of evacuations. Evacuations for the Bear Creek area include Bear Creek Canyon, Sunset Ridge, Hartman Creek, Lost Valley, Golden Ridge, Hawk Ridge, Dons Road, Rons Road, and Double Bear. In the Las Cumbres area of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Favre Ridge, Beatty Ridge, Grizzly Rock, Milter Ridge, Reed Knoll Road, Knuth, Oak Ridge, Skyline Ridge and a portion of Skyline Boulevard have been evacuated. The fire has injured five firefighters, including an inmate firefighter. All were expected to recover. About 250 firefighters were attempting to contain the wildland fire, which was only moving at a moderate speed. Were trying to get as much direct line as we can. Were going right on the fires edge, said assistant Cal Fire Chief Rob Sherman. Its very steep out there. Light winds worked in firefighters favor of firefighters, but low humidity and high temperatures in the lower 80s posed challenges. The fire is burning in steep inaccessible terrain covered by drought stressed fuels and moving north into heavy timber, according to Cal Fire. 12:12 p.m. Santa Rosa accepting Halloween costumes for kid wildfire evacuees: Anyone who wants to donate new costumes to the children of families touched by the wildfires can drop them off at Santa Rosa Police Department headquarters at 965 Sonoma Avenue by Monday. The costumes should be new and can be of any size, police said. 11:45 a.m. Number of open missing persons cases continue to drop in Sonoma County: The number of missing people still unaccounted for in Sonoma County has dropped to 65, according to the county Office of Emergency Services. The majority of the reports stemmed from communication difficulties spawned by faulty cell service in the aftermath of the wildfires, and resolved themselves when evacuees reconnected with loved ones. The nearly 5,000 firefighters in Sonoma County made headway Monday on the four fires burning in the region: the Tubbs, Pocket, Oakmont and Nuns fires. The deadliest of the Northern California fires was the 36,432-acre Tubbs Fire, which killed at least 18 people and was 82 percent contained. The Pocket Fire at 12,430 acres was 58 percent contained. The Sonoma County side of the Nuns Fire, which is also burning in Napa County, was at 33,369 acres and was 68 percent contained. And the 1,029-acre Oakmont Fire was 27 percent contained, according to Cal Fire estimates. Were making good progress. We got a lot more areas that are contained, said Dennis Rein, a fire information officer for the county. Buttoning up the Oakmont Fire thats the priority for today. 11:15 a.m. Boil water notices no longer in effect for Fountaingrove and White Oak in Santa Rosa: Residents in Santa Rosas Fountaingrove and White Oak neighborhoods are no longer required to boil water used for drinking and cooking, according to city officials. Water quality testing reportedly confirmed the liquids were safe after wildfires caused the water system to lose pressure. The notice was not lifted for evacuated areas, where no one should have access to the neighborhood, city officials said. 10:30 a.m. More than 34,000 remain evacuated in Northern California wildfires: As weather improves and firefighters gain control of deadly wildfires in the region, some evacuees have been allowed to re-enter wildfire zones, but tens of thousands remain evacuated, according to a Tuesday morning Cal Fire report. At least 12 large wildfires are burning across the state, including one that started Monday night in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Boulder Creek and had burned 152 acres and four structures by Tuesday morning. Some of the big wildfires that started ignited during a wind storm on Oct. 8 in the Wine Country and elsewhere in Northern California, including Mendocino and Yuba counties, have consolidated or been contained. More than 245,000 acres have burned statewide, killing 41 people and destroying more than 5,700 structures, fire officials said. The weather today will be warm with low humidity, which will continue to challenge firefighters, but only light winds are forecast, the Cal Fire statement read. A chance of precipitation is expected to arrive later in the week, bringing relief from the dry conditions. 9:35 a.m. Mendocino County Fires estimated containment is Nov. 1: The Redwood Valley and Sulphur fires in Mendocino County are expected to be contained which means they will not be able to spread farther by Nov. 1, according to a Tuesday morning Cal Fire estimate. Containment on the deadly 35,800-acre Redwood Valley Fire reached 60 percent Tuesday morning, a day after all mandatory evacuation orders were lifted. Residents were allowed back to the area by 2 p.m. Monday, according to Cal Fire officials. Authorities said an evacuation warning remains in place for the Van Arsdale community North of Stroh Ranch on both sides of the Eel River, including Van Arsdale Road, Oat Gap Road, Ridgewood Road, and all feeder roads in the area. The 2,207-acre Sulphur Fire was 92 percent contained. All eight deaths in the county stemmed from the Redwood Valley Fire. The fires destroyed 436 homes and seven commercial buildings, according to Cal Fire. 8:45 a.m. Deadliest of Northern California wildfires more than 80 percent contained: The Tubbs Fire, the wildfire that produced the highest number of fatalities with at least 18 deaths recorded, was 36,432 acres and 82 percent contained, according to a Tuesday morning Cal Fire report. Firefighters battling four Sonoma County fires, which accounted for 22 of the 41 deaths from the Northern California disaster, made considerable progress Tuesday morning. The Pocket Fire, measuring 12,430 acres, was 58 percent contained. The Sonoma County side of the Nuns Fire, which is also burning in Napa County, was at 33,369 acres and was 68 percent contained. And the 1,029-acre Oakmont Fire was 27 percent contained, according to Cal Fire estimates. 7:45 a.m. Sonoma County hospital reopens after being closed by fires: Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital reopened at 7 a.m. Tuesday after being closed for days due to deadly wildfires that swept through the region, according to the Sonoma County Sheriffs Office. Motorists are asked to use Mark West Springs Road off of Highway 101 to access the hospital. We are grateful to once again be able to serve our community, the hospital announced on its website. Those in fire zones can access a list of Sutters open and closed medical clinics online. 7:05 a.m. Nuns Fire now largest of Northern California wildfires: The 51,064-acre Atlas Fire, once the largest of the destructive wildfires burning in the Wine Country, was 77 percent contained Tuesday morning and was now second in size to the Nuns Fire straddling Sonoma and Napa counties. The Nuns fire merged with four other fires in the past week and was at least 51,512 acres Monday night and 53 percent contained. The containment number signifies how much control line firefighters have installed along the outer edges of the wildfire to stop its spread. 6:05 a.m. Light winds, cold front on the way: Winds were calm Tuesday morning in the areas where wildfires continued to burn in the North Bay and in the Santa Cruz mountains, the site of a new blaze that started Monday night, according to the National Weather Service. Rapid gusts that aided the spread of deadly Northern California wildfires that started on Oct. 8 and prompted several Red Flag warnings last week and over the weekend have been replaced by winds of 3 to 5 mph, said Rick Canepa, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Winds in the North Bay are lighter and humidity was gradually increasing as low pressure moving into the area and dry warm air was moving out, Canepa said. As a cold front comes in and brings light rain Thursday, the area is transitioning from light offshore flow to light onshore flow winds. Variability in winds can add more questions marks as to how to tackle a fire, Canepa said. The good news is were not expecting a bunch of wind. The amount of precipitation expected Thursday has dropped down to a tenth of an inch, which is still considered a notable amount of wetting rain. Thunderstorms Monday morning brought a couple dozen lightning strikes about 200 miles southwest of the Bay Area, but none are likely to reach the region, Canepa said. 5:10 a.m. New fire breaks out in Santa Cruz Mountains, evacuations under way: A 125-acre wildfire that started off of Bear Creek Road in the Santa Cruz Mountains Tuesday morning prompted Cal Fire to issues evacuation orders. The fire was burning southwest of San Jose and residents were being evacuated along Deer Creek Road, Rons Road, Dons Road, Lost Valley Road, Favre Ridge and Oak Ridge. Click here for earlier updates on the Northern California wildfires. The semitruck driver who transported dozens of immigrants in his sweltering trailer this summer from Laredo to San Antonio where police arrested him in a Walmart parking lot and later charged him in the deaths of 10 of the immigrants pleaded guilty Monday to smuggling. James Matthew Bradley, 61, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to transport aliens resulting in death and one count of transporting aliens resulting in death. He faces up to life in prison when he's sentenced by a federal judge in January. On July 23, police responding to a call found the trailer in the parking lot of the Walmart on the South Side. Eight of the 39 undocumented immigrants at the scene were dead, and two later succumbed to heat-related injuries. The dead were from Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico. Police found Bradley in the cab. Immigrants interviewed by investigators said that anywhere from 70 to 200 people were crowded into the overheated trailer, with only one small vent for air, according to court documents. Some of the survivors got into waiting SUVS and disappeared after the truck arrived in San Antonio, according to police. READ MORE: Truck driver tried smuggling $120K into Nuevo Laredo in backpack, authorities say "Today's admission of guilt by Mr. Bradley helps to close the door on one of the conspirators responsible for causing the tragic loss of life and wreaking havoc on those who survived this horrific incident," said Shane M. Folden, the special agent in charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations in San Antonio. "This case is a glaring reminder that alien smugglers are driven by greed and have little regard for the health and well-being of their human cargo, which can prove to be a deadly combination." Bradley was one of two people charged in the case. Pedro Silva Segura, 46, was arrested in Laredo the day after the trailer was discovered on charges that he harbored immigrants in a safe house in that city. Last month, he was indicted in the same case as Bradley. Silva could face the death penalty if convicted of conspiracy to transport and harbor undocumented immigrants for financial gain resulting in death and up to 20 years in prison if convicted of transporting and harboring undocumented aliens for financial gain resulting in serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy. Prosecutors in Laredo have dismissed the charges there, and Silva is awaiting transfer to San Antonio, where he'll face harsher potential penalties. RELATED: Odds stacked against Border Patrol agents in immigrant death case that passed through Laredo Federal officials meanwhile have shut down the Iowa trucking company that hired Bradley. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued an "out-of-service order" last week to Pyle Transportation after a review found that the company's safety rating was so unsatisfactory that it was unfit to remain in business. Pyle Transportation owner Brian Pyle has denied knowledge of the alleged smuggling conspiracy. He has said he sold the trailer and hired Bradley, who had worked previously for the company, as a contractor to drive it to Brownsville to deliver it to the buyer. Federal regulators launched a compliance review into the company, which had been operating with a "conditional" safety rating because of prior violations, after the human trafficking case. Earlier this month, authorities identified the 10th victim as Flabio Cambo, 32, of Ecuador. Cambo, whose family in Ecuador had reported him missing, was carrying documents identifying him as being from Mexico, said Ruth Maria Duenas de Garcia, Ecuador's consul general in Houston. Authorities were able to compare photos of Cambo with the unidentified victim and confirm that it was him, Duenas said. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Democratic state Sen. Carlos Uresti has submitted a powerful list of Texas judges, politicians and lawyers to testify as potential witnesses in his upcoming criminal fraud trial, which starts Monday and may stretch three weeks. His witness list filed with the court late Monday is a whos who of the San Antonio political elite, with Chief U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia and state Sen. Jose Menendez heading the list of 38 witnesses expected to be called for the trial. Uresti also supplied a separate list of 133 people who may be called to testify on his behalf. They include Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, former San Antonio Mayors Julian Castro and Henry Cisneros, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, Bexar County District Judges Solomon Casseb III and Peter Sakai, Bexar County Probate Judge Tom Rickhoff and Bexar County District Attorney Nico LaHood. Michael McCrum, one of Urestis defense lawyers, didnt respond to a request for comment. But its presumed that most of those prominent individuals, if called, would testify to Urestis veracity or as character witnesses. It may be as simple as posturing, but it could be a serious attempt by the defense to try to get as many as people with good characters, who are well-known in the community, to come in and testify, said Miguel Najera, a San Antonio criminal defense lawyer who is not involved in the case. Because these people are going to have more gravitas, they are going to have a larger effect on either a judge or a jury when they are testifying in favor of an accused. A jury may pay more attention to those individuals testimony and give more weight to it because they are known in the community, he said. Witnesses like that can be incredibly powerful, said another San Antonio criminal defense lawyer, who didnt want to be identified. It could be that they want to put the word out to both the prosecutors and anybody who might be listening or reading your newspaper that theyve got some prominent people out there. They may feel like they have to list these witnesses or the judge wont let them be called. Uresti is facing 11 felony charges, including wire and securities fraud, conspiracy and acting as unregistered securities broker in connection with his involvement in now-defunct oil field services company FourWinds Logistics. A federal grand jury in May indicted Uresti, along with former FourWinds CEO Stan Bates and consultant Gary Cain. Each has denied the charges. FourWinds collapsed into bankruptcy in 2015 amid allegations by some investors that they were defrauded. Prosecutors have called FourWinds a Ponzi scheme, an investment fraud that involves the payment of purported returns to earlier investors from money contributed by new investors. LaHood, the district attorney, said he was notified that he might be called to testify, but said in an email he doesnt believe there is any information that I can provide which will be of any significant impact to this trial. LaHood and Cain were in business together as co-chairmen of Trinity Global Funding & Consulting, which worked with FourWinds. Uresti has said he pitched LaHood about investing with FourWinds, though LaHood never did. Last week, prosecutors alleged in a court document that Bates hired prostitutes and bought controlled substances with investor money. Uresti served for a brief time as FourWinds lawyer and recruited two investors. Other potential witnesses include San Antonio Water System President and CEO Robert Puente, state Sen. John Whitmire of Houston, Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert, former County Commissioner and ex-mayoral candidate Tommy Adkisson and former state district Judge John Specia. The list includes politicians and judges from both parties. Not all those identified as potential witnesses were aware they may be called to testify. Thats the first time Ive ever heard about it, Judge Sakai said Tuesday. Im totally surprised. He added he is not involved in the case. Sakai said he has not received a subpoena to testify and as a judge is prohibited from voluntarily testifying on behalf of individuals as a character witness. If subpoenaed, I will comply with a court order to appear and I will answer any questions when Im ordered to appear by a court, he said. Sakai declined to speculate on why hes listed as a potential witness, though he acknowledge he and Uresti are friends. The pair have worked on the Blue Ribbon Task Force to combat child abuse and related legislation, as well as on the overhaul of Texas Child Protective Services, he said. Whitmire, the state senator, also wasnt aware that he was listed as a potential witness, according to his chief of staff, Lara Wendler. First Ive heard of it, Castro, the former San Antonio mayor, wrote in a text. Garcia, the chief federal judge in San Antonio, had no comment, an aide said. Efforts to reach some of the other potential witnesses or their representatives were not successful. pdanner@express-news.net Staff writer Josh Baugh contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Principal Teresa Ruffoni greeted students at Crane Elementary School in Rohnert Park on Monday morning, their first day back in class after a series of deadly fires burned through thousands of homes in neighboring Santa Rosa and in other cities and towns across the region. What Ruffoni didnt tell the children was that a week earlier she had grabbed a few of her most vital belongings and fled from flames that would soon consume her home in Hidden Valley Estates, a hard-hit subdivision in the hills of northern Santa Rosa. She was too focused on the students, and navigating an extraordinary period for education in Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino counties. Our kids need this. They really do, Ruffoni said. They really need a place to learn. The Wine Country fires displaced thousands of families, some of whom still dont know if their homes survived, and shut down schools in all three counties. Now, as schools in places like Rohnert Park and Petaluma begin to reopen, administrators not only are concerned about the emotional health of students but also are preparing for changes, including possible jumps in enrollment if parents decide to send their children to schools closer to their temporary housing including emergency shelters. Nearly 600 schools, serving 260,000 students across Northern California, closed last week because of fire danger, smoke or evacuations, state officials said. Some of the schools were themselves used as shelters. Many parents, meanwhile, fled the North Bay entirely to get away from the heavy smoke, staying with family or friends or at hotels. Amid the chaos and uncertainty, district administrators and teachers have been scrambling to get schools back open, knowing it was a critical step to bring a sense of security and normalcy to children traumatized by the destruction. Thats why on Friday, Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified Superintendent Robert Haley gathered the entire district staff in a school gym. Do you want to try and reopen Monday? he asked. The answer, he said, was a solid yes. I looked up, and front and center was a teacher with a smile on her face, he said. Her house burned down, but she was ready to help her colleagues get kids back in school. Ruffoni, despite possessing only a hodgepodge of mismatched clothes grabbed in the dark of night, was ready to go, too. It felt like the right thing to do, Haley said, to help the whole county move forward. For many of our students, the place they feel safest other than at home is school, Haley said. The adults they trust more than anyone other than their parents are their teachers. Thats why were here today. The small district south of Santa Rosa was among the first in Sonoma County to reopen in the wake of the most damaging week of fires in modern state history. Districts, including those that serve Petaluma, Sebastopol and Healdsburg, planned to open Tuesday, while Windsor and Cloverdale hoped to welcome students back Wednesday, as did Napa Valley Unified and St. Helena Unified in Napa County. The big districts in areas most devastated by the fires, such as Santa Rosa, the city of Sonoma and Calistoga, were not expected to open for at least another week. Administrators in a number of districts are still evaluating schools to make sure they are safe and ready for students testing alarm systems, checking electricity and, in Santa Rosa, deep-cleaning classrooms to clear the smell of smoke. One school in that district, Hidden Valley Satellite, located just blocks from Teresa Ruffonis house, was destroyed. Students there were expected to transfer to Hidden Valley Elementary, which is close by but was spared, officials said. A smaller system in Santa Rosa, the Wright Elementary School District, announced plans to open Wednesday. That will be a relief, said Saba Semere, the mother of three elementary-age students there. Her children Abel, Lulia and Yonathan have been passing time playing cards and video games and watching movies with family members who have been staying with them after losing their homes in Santa Rosas Coffey Park neighborhood. The heavy smoke has cut off most outdoor activities. The kids said they were ready for the end of their unexpected vacation. Im really looking forward to it, said Abel, a fourth-grader, of Wednesdays expected return. For students at Cardinal Newman High School in Santa Rosa, not only when but where they will attend class remains up in the air. The private school was partially destroyed, and administrators said they will meet this week to discuss their options, including temporarily holding classes at a different location or possibly online. In Petaluma, where schools were closed all last week as shelters opened across the city, Monday was a teacher work day. District officials said they would welcome students back Tuesday, including any new children displaced from elsewhere by the fire. Superintendent Gary Callahan wasnt sure how many fire families would need a new school, but said they were all welcome. Well take them, he said, adding that the district would provide mental health services and other support if needed. Our folks are super ready to work with kids and families. School leaders across the region said they expected some displaced families to enroll in new schools, depending on where they find housing. The typical registration process, requiring proof of residence and other documentation, would be waived to get students into class as quickly as possible, officials said. In Rohnert Park, Ruffoni said many of her students had family affected by the disaster, including one scared little girl who didnt want to come to school Monday. So the principal booked a magician, who performed at a school-wide assembly first thing in the morning. We started our day laughing and having fun and all together, she said. San Francisco Chronicle staff writer Lizzie Johnson contributed to this report. Jill Tucker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jtucker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jilltucker We're Going to Need More Wine: Stories That are Funny, Complicated and True By Gabrielle Union Dey Street. 272 pp. $26.99 --- Actress Gabrielle Union's first book is a lot more serious than its title suggests. "We're Going to Need More Wine" does indeed include the funny, true-life stories you might expect from the glittering, personable lead of BET's "Being Mary Jane," but the strongest essays in the collection, while told in the same friend-to-friend style, are searing and powerful: an account of when she was raped at a Payless shoe store in college, for example, and an exploration of the challenges of raising black children in America today. By phone from Cleveland, Union spoke about these and other experiences she writes about in her book. (This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.) --- A: It was sort of decided for me when I was on a show that had a storyline about a serial rapist preying on the people who worked at a hospital. Over the course of several weeks, I would look at the script and I would just be locked in terror, wondering if they were going to write my character to be raped next. And yet I worked with such kind, compassionate people, I realized that if they knew what had happened to me, they just wouldn't do that to me. So having that conversation with my co-workers - someone who was not related to me, who I was not paying for therapy, who wasn't from my small town - the idea of sharing that information as a means of protection, that's what started it. Then once I shared, others shared: You know that happened to me; you know that happened to my child, my mother. In attempting to protect myself, I realized I was offering a bridge, a hand, to other people who wanted to share, or who just needed to know, "Hey, I'm not alone." Literally a week later, I got my first cover for Savoy magazine, and during the whole interview, I knew I was sitting on information that could help a lot of people. I wasn't sure that I was prepared emotionally, mentally, spiritually, financially even to share that. I didn't know what the consequences could be. But when I saw the route the questions were taking, I thought: I could either answer these silly, benign questions or I could share with people a very big piece of my soul and perhaps help other people. A: We're all a bit of a mix, I think. In my life, certainly I've been perceived as a mix of different identities and different voices. The quotes are there as a window into who I am, and to give a deeper sense of what writers I've been inspired by, and what words specifically lent themselves to my development as a human being. And I wanted to talk to as many people as possible. If you start using all of your SAT words, you're going to make people think you're pretentious, and they have no clue what you're talking about. But I knew I was going to lose some people who feel that unless you use all your SAT words, you're not worthy of listening to. I try to talk to people where they're at. A: I reference Coates' book quite a bit, and that was absolutely my guide, especially when dealing with my children's educators. It's interesting now how some people are finding Coates' new book problematic. Perhaps more people are willing to see my approach as not being as combative. I also have the power of a larger Instagram feed, and I subscribe to a lot more silly things in my downtime that I'm willing to share on social media. Maybe because I was in "Bring It On" - people reference that all the time - it's just been received differently. But I'm not really saying anything different than what he's saying. It's like instead of buying Cracklin' Oats, they bought what they thought was Lucky Charms, and there were prizes in there they weren't anticipating, so it's like slipping nutrients into something they thought was going to be more of a guilty pleasure. And there are people who don't find me as benign as others do, who see me as very angry and very combative, and perhaps with a hidden agenda that somehow is deeper than just wanting equity for the children I'm raising. A: No. I wrote a lot of it as exercises for my therapist. By the time I was shaping it into essays, I was really just dealing with my honest thoughts, things that I hadn't even shared with my therapist because I was afraid of judgment. I didn't plan on anyone ever seeing this. --- Burns is the author of "The Missing Woman and Other Stories." File photo The first greenhouse gas monitoring system in the South China Sea has started the test run, an important move for research on, and the environmental protection of, the South China Sea area. The system will be used for continuous, precise measuring of carbon dioxide and methane emissions, the State Oceanic Administration (SOA) told the Science Daily on Sunday, adding that the system was designed in accordance with Global Atmosphere Watch standards. The climatic, geographical and ecological conditions around Nansha Islands and neighboring areas make it prone to ocean carbon-cycle and ocean acidification exposure, Lin Hongmin, an adviser to South China's Hainan Provincial Maritime Environment Protection Association, told the Global Times on Monday. Lin said that ocean acidification and warming temperatures are the major cause of coral reef damage, which is largely found in the waters around Nansha. "Since the 1970s, the area has lost 80 percent of its coral reefs while the mangrove losses could add up to 73 percent. The general situation is serious," Wang Xiaoqiang, a deputy director at the Oceanic Administration, said in May 2016. Oceanol.com, an SOA affiliated news site, said that the administration already had a greenhouse gas monitoring system on Nansha and Xisha islands, Beishuang Island near Fujian Province and Shengshan Island off Zhejiang Province, in preparation for building a network of monitoring sites across the country. The greenhouse gas monitoring system for the South China Sea is a clear sign of China's seriousness about dealing with global warming, because the oceans are the biggest carbon trap, or storehouse for greenhouse gases, said Lin. In addition to greenhouse gas emissions, the government has focused on other environment protection aspects in the ocean, he noted. Last year, China put about 470 million yuan ($71.48 million) into scientific research on protecting the ocean environment and deep-ocean technology, according to Wang. And it started a red-line system to mark ecological protection areas that include over 30 percent of China's marine areas and over 35 percent of the mainland's coastline in 11 provinces to build a comprehensive ocean management system, he concluded. The Witch: A History of Fear, from Ancient Times to the Present By Ronald Hutton Yale University Press. 376 pp. $30 --- These days, when the accusation of "witch hunt" seems far too casually invoked, we owe historian Ronald Hutton gratitude for showing us what a witch hunt really looks like. He details not only the diverse cultural traits of those hunted in Europe, but the roots, history and prevalence of witches throughout the world. To avoid any misunderstanding, Hutton defines his terms early, choosing the classic historian's definition of a witch as "one who causes harm to others by mystical means." This dark magic is not to be confused with our modern association of the term with pagan nature-based religions, which Hutton considers "thoroughly worthwhile." For the sake of this work, Hutton describes those who practice the healing magical arts intended to elicit beneficial results as "service practitioners." The witch of Hutton's description has several distinguishing characteristics. Stereotypes aside, the targeted witch was not always a woman. Iceland's famous witch-hunt victims, for example, were mostly men, while Scotland's of the same era were almost exclusively women. Even so, there were common traits of the accused: The witch was a worker of destructive magic employing handed-down traditions. The magical harm invoked was always personal, often intended to harm neighbors, rather than strangers. The witch was treated as a threat to the community, someone believed to hate humanity and conspire with the devil. Hutton's research suggests witches have existed in all inhabited continents of the world and across the majority of human societies. Though there are great cultural variations in customs and practices, people have persistently resorted to magical means to inflict harm on each other. Although there have been isolated prosecutions of witches throughout history, Hutton writes, "Europeans alone turned witches into practitioners of an evil anti-religion." What Hutton finds more difficult to prove is the existence of literal diabolic cults, though the belief in them is certainly well-documented, particularly among groups organized to combat them. The benandanti in Italy, for instance, believed its spirits went forth at night to battle gathering witches. In some ways, it's easier to mention three significant groups that didn't take issue with practicing witches: The Egyptians harbored neither fear nor disapproval of magic. When Egypt fell under Roman rule, some aspects of their ceremonial magic influenced Greek philosophy as well as Jewish and Christian culture. Forms of it were adopted by Judaic, Byzantine and Muslim religious ceremony, and later by Latin Christianity. Such symbols as the quartered circle and the pentagram, protective symbols of the Middle Ages, found their way into religious ritual. The Celts had a similar non-reaction to witches. Hutton speculates a concurrent belief in fairies might account for this. Indeed, the infamous and brutal Scottish witch hunts took place in areas beyond the reach of Celtic influence. Does the belief in fairies provide protection from witches as Hutton theorizes? Perhaps. The theory certainly provides fertile ground for fantasy fiction writers. Nomadic tribes also seemed impervious to accusations of witchcraft. When unfortunate events occurred, they didn't demonize dark magic, they simply relocated. So when and why did things turn deadly? Though the elements were already in existence in the ancient world, the satanic witchcraft connection emerged strongly in the late Middle Ages, after Roman influence spread throughout Europe and Christianity became the dominant religion. The church outlawed divination and ceremonial magic as heresy, prompting witch hunts in the 1420s in Spain and Italy. Friars of the Observant reform movement, who preached in remote areas and dedicated themselves to "purging Christendom of all laxity and ungodliness," blamed misfortunes on satanic conspiracy, thereby creating widespread panic among their followers. The second great European witch hunt arrived with Protestantism and the waning power of the Catholic Church. In late 16th-century England, Protestant evangelists targeted all magic, claiming witches were deluded by the devil. The Catholic Church responded in kind. Each side blamed the other for colluding with Satan. This quickly escalated, leading to a number of the most brutal witch hunts in history, some that eventually reached the shores of British colonies, including America, before European belief in witches seemed to spontaneously disappear. What never died out completely, however, was the demonization of those considered "other." It resurfaced, along with witch hunting, in postcolonial Africa, most likely, Hutton suggests, as a response to the process of modernization after independence. Even today, we see witch hunts breaking out in different parts of the world among cultures most fearful of change. "The Witch" is an important work, representing more than 20 years of scholarly research. Though not a casual read, for anyone researching the subject, this is the book you've been waiting for, one that lays to rest many conflicting theories that emerged in the latter part of the 20th century. It provides a social, historical and religious continuum based on impeccable research. But "The Witch" is more than a historical reference; it's also a cautionary tale. In Hutton's words, witch hunts remain "a very live issue in the present world, and one that may well be worsening." In these tumultuous times, we would do well to learn from the history Hutton depicts. --- Barry is the author, most recently, of "The Fifth Petal." WASHINGTON - Dave Chappelle went back to where it all began. As a teenager, Chappelle worked stages in the D.C. comedy scene. He recorded "Killin' Them Softly" at the storied Lincoln Theatre, telling jokes in the same space where Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday performed. The 2000 HBO special, considered one of Chappelle's most quotable works, showcased the incisive, clever and downright ridiculous outlook on race and relationships that'd be on full display three years later during his breakout "Chappelle's Show." Then, at the height of his career, Chappelle famously walked away: from a $50 million Comedy Central deal, from TV specials, from it all. And while he has performed stand-up in the intervening years - popping up in comedy clubs, closing out festivals - Chappelle is now having his most public moment in a decade. He returned to Washington last month for a nearly two-week stint at the Warner Theatre, where he filmed material for his third Netflix special. His $60 million deal with the company also yielded two other stand-up hours, filmed in 2015 and 2016 and released in March, that became Netflix's most-viewed comedy specials ever. Chappelle has since completed a star-studded, two-week Radio City Music Hall residency over the summer and quickly sells out shows. But when he opened a recent Warner performance, Chappelle joked about how he's ready to walk away again. You know, after he drops this next special. He said part of it had to do with how "brittle" some ears have become. While that served as a premise for a bunch of jokes - honestly, you'll just have to watch and see for yourself whether they work for you - it's also a sentiment Chappelle has expressed before. As stand-up comedy booms and the number of comedy fans has multiplied, "now there's a big debate about how far we should be able to go, and you'll see guys saying things that will really upset people," Chappelle said in a brief interview with The Washington Post over the summer. "Getting on a big stage, it's harder to really - not everybody's ears are calibrated for this. But the people who like it, love it." The comic has some recent experience to draw from. Jokes in his first Netflix specials, particularly about transgender people, received some criticism. While filming for this next special, he doubled down on even more transgender material and incorporated the very criticism he has received. Stand-up gives Chappelle something his sketch comedy show didn't: total artistic control. He's 100 percent responsible for what he says on stage. He's just saying it in a very different world. Since he released his last special, 2004's "For What It's Worth," public attitudes on key social issues have dramatically shifted. A majority of Americans then opposed same-sex marriage; now, a majority supports it. Calls for increased representation of people of color in movies and on TV have never been louder. There are more open conversations about sexual assault, and repercussions for celebrities accused of such misconduct. Technology has also dramatically changed. In 2004, most audience members didn't carry phones that could let them covertly film and publish sets for the world to see; YouTube didn't even launch until 2005. There was no widespread social media, and rarely did the Internet drive mainstream news coverage. Recent years have seen bits, picked out of the context of a live show, take on a life of their own, such as a 2014 Hannibal Buress joke about allegations against Bill Cosby. Chappelle requires audiences at his performancesto lock up their phones in magnetic pouches, but someone can still tweet or write about it after the fact. And sometimes jokes get written about as if they're straightforward statements of opinion; a 2016 Observer story on a Chappelle drop-in set, where he riffed about Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, caused quite the stir. Chappelle addresses that in his new act, too. All of this has created an environment of increased awareness and accountability for stand-up comedians. Some longtimers, such as Jerry Seinfeld, have bemoaned how political correctness hurts comedy. But there have always been people who've found comics' jokes distasteful, offensive or based on inaccurate premises. It's just that now everyone is equipped with a platform to air their grievances, and more people are paying attention than ever. For better and worse. Chappelle has long walked the lines between outlandish, offensive and sharp-witted. His latest material has him jumping from talking about being a father, to President Trump's election, to finding humor in the darkest chapters of American history. Not everyone will like what he has to say. And he won't have "it" for everyone. But he's still an expert of the craft who will always command a legion of fans eager to hear what he does. So, sure, Chappelle could walk away again if he wants. And there'll be an audience waiting, again, for his return. Years after it was supposed to make its first foray into the Texas market, Los Angeles-based burger chain Fatburger might finally debut with locations in Houston and north Texas. According to the Dallas Morning News, 50 outposts are expected to enter the market over the next several years. Delegates of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) arrive at Capital International Airport in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 16, 2017. The congress will start on Oct. 18 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) All 38 delegations to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) had arrived in Beijing by Monday evening for the upcoming political event. The delegations represent the Chinese mainland's 31 provincial regions, departments of the CPC Central Committee, central government organs, enterprises controlled by the central government, central financial system, the People's Liberation Army, the Armed Police, and CPC members of Taiwan origin. More than 2,200 delegates, chosen from more than 89 million CPC members across the nation, will attend the twice-a-decade congress, scheduled to open Wednesday. Delegates of Yunnan Province to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) arrive at Capital International Airport in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 16, 2017. The congress will start on Oct. 18 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Yin Gang) The delegates will deliberate an 18th CPC Central Committee report, a CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection work report and an amendment to the CPC Constitution at the congress. The congress is also expected to unveil new CPC leadership and set a blueprint for national development for the next five years and beyond. DOT worker injured in Northway incident WILTON A state Department of Transportation worker was struck by a fellow employee driving a small front-end loader Monday morning on the Northway, State police said. The worker suffered non-life threatening injuries, but State Police spokesman Trooper Mark Cepiel said that he likely was taken to the hospital. The incident occurred on the southbound lane between exits 15 and 16 in a construction zone. For a short time, some lanes were closed, Cepiel said. Cepiel said he did not know what kind of repair work was being done. "A lot of what they are doing now is repairing guard rails and things before the winter," he said. The man's name was not released. Wendy Liberatore School: Man tried to lure girl into his truck TROY Police are investigating an incident that occurred Sunday morning outside of School 12 on River Street near 101st Street. A girl who attends the school told administrators that around 11 a.m. a man in a red pickup truck drove past her and made inappropriate comments toward her, trying to convince her to get in the vehicle, according to a statement on the district's Twitter account. The girl ran away instead and reported the incident on Monday morning. The district is operating normally while police investigate. Steve Hughes Cops investigate shooting in Troy TROY A 32-year-old man was shot late Friday night in Troy. Police went to Old Sixth Avenue for a report of gunshots and found the man with non-life threatening injuries, Capt. Daniel DeWolf said Monday. He was treated and taken to Albany Medical Center Hospital. The investigation is ongoing and at this time there are no arrests. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the detective bureau at 518-270-4426. Steve Hughes Domestic dispute results in charges A Kingsbury man was arrested after a domestic dispute on Oct. 14, the Washington County Sheriff's Office said. Elijah R. Tripp, 25, was charged with felony criminal possession of a weapon after he allegedly threatened a relative with a box cutter and smashed a windshield with a board. Tripp was also charged with menacing, criminal mischief and reckless endangerment. He was sent to Washington County jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond. Steve Hughes On this date in ... 1917: Like something out of the (not so Old) West, a posse of about 50 area residents captured 35-year-old Troy native John Holden near West Sand Lake after he allegedly brutally assaulted a woman. The arrival of deputy sheriffs prevented the mob from lynching the man. Elvina La Flamme, 35, claimed that Holden induced her to take a walk with him near the Sand Lake trolley station, and when in a secluded spot, knocked her down, kicked and assaulted her, and tore her clothes off before she was able to escape and run to a man in his car who witnessed part of the attack. 1967: David Tier, Democratic candidate for supervisor in the town of Coeymans, said his chief motivation for seeking office was his fear of Coeymans becoming the "garbage capital of the state." A Buffalo firm, Associated Development Corporation of Buffalo, was seeking options for the creation of a gigantic landfill in the town. But due to heavy local opposition for the proposal, the Buffalo firm as well as Municipal Refuse Company Inc. of Cheektowaga, which had opened an office in Ravena to promote the project, had withdrawn their efforts. Tier also wanted to address pollution problems, extending water supply to areas outside Coeymans and developing a recreational facility along the waterfront. 1992: After one million pizzas and untold millions of gallons of marinara sauce, Joe Calsolaro was hanging up his ladle. Calsolaro, 62, owner of Calsolaro's on Washington Avenue in Albany, spent half a century rolling out dough, making meatballs by hand and following his mother's ancient recipes for tomato sauce. He was looking for a buyer for the building, but its future was very much up in the air. The restaurant would close Oct. 31 no matter what, ending an Albany tradition that began in 1936. Want to read more about the Capital Region's past? Have any memories or thoughts about how our history relates to today's events? See http://blog.timesunion.com/history/ This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A drive-by shooting left a car riddled with bullets Sunday afternoon in central Laredo, according to authorities. Laredo police officers responded to the deadly conduct report in the 200 block of East Guerrero Street in El Trompe neighborhood. Responding officers said they found a Nissan Sentra parked in front of a residence. READ MORE: Seat status still pending for Laredo city councilman who disclosed rival's juvenile criminal records The vehicle had been hit by several gunshots. Investigator Joe E. Baeza, LPD spokesman, said authorities recovered 14 spent casings as evidence. "Luckily, no people were injured as a result of this deadly conduct," Baeza said. RELATED: Truck driver pleads guilty in immigrant death case that passed through Laredo The investigation continues. To provide information on the case, call police at 956-795-2800 or the Laredo Crime Stoppers at 727-TIPS (8477). Information provided via the tip line and leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Webb County District Attorney Isidro R. "Chilo" Alaniz and the Laredo Police Department opened their doors Monday to a group of college students from Mexico. Alaniz spoke to law students from the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon while police shared some time with criminology students from the same school. Alaniz said the objective of meeting with law students from Mexico was to share techniques, strategies and talk about the judicial system, more than anything the oral advocacy. "Mexico is going through this transition of converting where they will be able to do oral arguments and presentations to the courts," Alaniz said. Alaniz added, "They're converting from a system that was 100 percent based on written submissions. Now, they are having the opportunity to make argument. The idea for them is to come here and see how it's done. Everything they're able to take from here will be helpful for their future. READ MORE: Seat status still pending for Laredo city councilman who disclosed rival's juvenile criminal records "The best way to put here is they are able to come here and see the nuts and bolts of oral advocacy the basics. How attorneys are able to formulate their ideas and make them into persuasive arguments in making their points to the court." Students had an opportunity to learn about the judicial system in a Q&A session with Alaniz. "The intention was to bring them to compare the oral trials that are applied in the North American system with the new system of oral trials in Mexico," said Luis Daccarett, a law professor from the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon. He added, "We want them to learn the best practices." LPD Police opened their doors to a group of criminology students from the same university. "We gave them a presentation that's similar to the same law enforcement techniques and issues that they face on a daily basis that we also face here in the United States," said LPD Sgt. Robert Medina. "They wanted to see how we did things. We found it it's comparable to the way they do things also. They are from a much larger city, but it's about the same kind of work." Students learned from homicide detectives how an investigations begins and finishes. Officers who investigate traffic fatalities shared with students techniques and ideas to determine what caused the accident. RELATED: Laredo man set fire to 3 mobile homes, a house and a vehicle, authorities say "We developed a partnership, a relationship to where we can communicate and learn things from them as they learn as well from us," Medina said. With Mexico undertaking oral trials, Veronica Alvarado Valdes, a law professor from the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, said criminologists now take an active and direct participation in the investigation. "The Laredo Police Department has been wonderful. They have opened the doors to us not only as visitors but as family," she said. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Laredo's Metropolitan Planning Organization learned Monday that the city is on track to submit a federal grant application for their proposed $130 million road project. If the city is awarded an INFRA grant, previously called a FASTLANE grant, they would receive $78 million from the federal government and $30 million from the Texas Department of Transportation to construct five direct connectors from I-35 to the loop and two additional main lanes and shoulders that connect the World Trade Bridge to I-35. The City of Laredo would be contracted to pay $22 million for these improvements. The direct connectors would cost $115 million total, and the two main lanes would cost $15 million, according to Nathan Bratton, the city's planning director. He said the project would result in a public benefit of $84.51 for every $1 spent. READ MORE: New report shows the most affluent neighborhoods in the Laredo area Councilman George Altgelt expressed concern about the competitiveness of Laredo's application. Bratton said that some cities are asking the feds for less money and offering up more of their own, but in past applications, there's been a variety. If Laredo is awarded the grant, Bratton said construction could begin in 2019 for a completion date of 2021. The deadline to submit the grant application is Nov. 2. RELATED: 35 fastest-growing cities in Texas, according to WalletHub The MPO was also informed Monday that the Loop 20 overpasses at Clark Boulevard and International Boulevard will be completed by December of this year. The MPO is made up of TxDOT officials, a three members of City Council, the mayor, the county judge, and a couple of county commissioners. They meet every third Monday of the month to discuss transportation projects in Laredo and Webb County. Julia Wallace may be reached at 956-728-2543 or jwallace@lmtonline.com Participant Media In Human Flow, dissident Chinese artist Ai Weiwei doesnt break any new ground in covering the global refugee crisis, but he vividly illustrates in straightforward yet artistic terms the scale of the problem without compromising the dignity or humanity of the survivors. Following his widely seen exhibit at Alcatraz Island, Ai has embraced a project that requires mind-boggling logistics in comparison. Along with countless camera crews, he traverses the globes hot spots of dislocation, and hes there as refugees embark from ships, bake in tents under the desert sun or face menacing threats from the Islamic State. KABUL -- A string of Taliban attacks on Afghan security units killed more than 70 people, officials said Tuesday, in another show of force by the militants amid a renewed effort seeking possible peace talks. The attacks, which began late Monday, underscored the Taliban's resilience and ability to strike heavily protected sites such as military bases. It also raised questions about any potential Taliban commitment to open dialogue with the Afghan government and its allies after 16 years of conflict. In Oman, U.S. officials met with delegations from China, Pakistani and Afghanistan to try to revive peace talks with the Taliban. Previous attempts to open talks with the Taliban have stalled, most recently last year after former Taliban leader Akhtar Muhammad Mansour was killed in a U.S. drone strike. On Tuesday, Taliban forces stormed a police compound south of Kabul, killing 41 people, including a local police chief, in a gun battle that lasted hours, officials said. The commando-style raid in Gardez, about 80 miles south of Kabul, also injured about 100 people after two car bombs exploded outside a facility that serves as a command center for local police and a main training site for police recruits. Taliban fighters then stormed the facility, taking over towers and firing indiscriminately, causing casualties among police and civilians who happened to be there on government business, officials said. Najib Danesh, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry, said local police chief Toryalai Abadani was among those killed. Earlier, a similar attack in the neighboring Ghazni province killed 25 government security officers and five civilians. A suicide bomber drove a vehicle into a government compound, followed by gunmen who entered the site. At least 48 people were also wounded, Gen. Murad Ali Murad, a deputy interior minister, told reporters. Murad said a total 74 people were killed in the spate of Taliban violence that included smaller attacks. Pakistan - which recently won some favor from the Trump administration after the rescue of American Caitlan Coleman and her family, held by the Taliban-linked Haqqani network for five years - was quick to condemn the attack in Gardez. "Pakistan reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all forms and manifestations and reaffirms its commitment for continued efforts and cooperation for eliminating this menace," the country's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The attacks followed several attempted suicide bombings in Kabul during recent weeks. The Afghan intelligence agency said Tuesday that it recently thwarted a Taliban plot to attack several spots in the city, including military facilities, army convoys and crowded areas. The agency arrested two men Monday who were traveling in a car full of explosives. Over the weekend, a driver of a truck with three tons of explosives was also arrested. Taliban fighters and other militants, including the Islamic State, have struck bases used by security forces in the past. In April, Taliban insurgents dressed in army uniforms surged into an army facility in the northern Balkh province, killing dozens of soldiers. The Paktia province is also where the U.S. carried out a drone strike Monday, killing 20 "extremists" in the Jaji Maidan district, a NATO spokesman said Tuesday. --- Shaiq Hussein contributed to this story from Islamabad. Former Vice President Joe Biden endorsed five candidates in Virginia's House of Delegates races Monday, including Danica Roem, the Prince William County ex-journalist who is trying to become the first transgender woman elected to statewide office. The endorsement of Biden, who has become one of the elder statesmen of the Democratic Party, could help candidates such as Roem who are trying to convince voters who identify with Biden's working-class background and stances. "As someone who spent decades riding the train to work, I'm proud today to endorse Danica Roem's historic candidacy because I know her emphasis on improving transportation infrastructure is critical to improving the quality of life for thousands of Virginians," Biden said in an emailed statement to the state Democratic Party. "I know she'd make people of her lifelong home of Prince William County proud by working to improve their commutes and strengthen the middle class while serving them with compassion in Richmond and Manassas." Roem, who is in a heated battle with Del. Robert Marshall, R, declared herself "humbled" by Biden's endorsement. "I have made transportation policy my top priority," she said. "This helps us entirely." Biden also endorsed four other Democrats, including first-term incumbent Del. John Bell of Chantilly, a 26-year Air Force veteran who represents House District 87 in Loudoun and Prince William counties. He faces Republican challenger Subba Kolla. Biden called him "a proven leader . . . [who] has a track record of getting things done across the aisle and advocating for his constituents. Delegate Bell deserves to be reelected so he can continue to fight for what is right, from making sure every Virginian can afford to see a doctor, growing our middle class, and ensuring our schools and public places are safe from firearm violence." Other Biden endorsements were for Jennifer Carroll Foy who is running for the open House District 2 seat in Prince William County against Republican Michael David Makee; David Reid of Woodridge who is challenging Del. Tag Greason, R, for the House District 32 seat, and Elizabeth Guzman who is challenging Del. Scott Lingamfelter, R, in House District 31. House Democratic Leader David J. Toscano and Caucus Chair Charniele Herring declared themselves "ecstatic" with Biden's endorsements. "We must build our party from the ground up, not the top down, and the former Vice President's willingness to draw attention to our races at the state legislative level will help drive our voters out to the polls. Elections matter, and we are profoundly grateful to Vice President Biden for his support in helping get our candidates across the finish line on Nov. 7," they said in a joint statement. A wave of female candidates are vying for election this year in Virginia's lower House of Delegates, driven in many cases by opposition to the election of President Trump in November. Daphne Caruana Galizia, an investigative journalist and blogger from Malta who was known for her reporting on governmental corruption, was killed in a bomb explosion near her home on Monday,officials say. Galizia, 53, who had published a story on her blog at about 2:35 p.m. local Malta time Monday, was driving away from the home where she lived with her husband in Bidnija, a rural area on the island, in a rented Peugeot 108 around 3 p.m. when the car went up in flames, according to local media reports. The blast sent detritus far into the surrounding fields and badly burned the body. Photos showed the Peugeot's mangled shell in a field, dozens of yards away from the blast site. No suspects have been identified in the bombing. In 2017, 27 journalists have been killed for their work so far, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Galizia's death was widely condemned by officials and NGOs across Europe and Malta, where the journalist's relentless fixation on corruption, cronyism and political malfeasance had brought her to prominence. "Shocked and outraged by murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia," Frans Timmermans, the first vice-president of the European Commission, said in a statement posted on Twitter. "If journalists are silenced, our freedom is lost." Galizia spent much of her work in recent years reporting on the Panama Papers, the cache of records from a law firm in that country that detailed offshoring activities of powerful officials and companies around the world. Her reporting on allegations about the wife of Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and a shell company in Panama had caused concern during Malta's term at the presidency of the European Union, the Guardian reported. Galizia's focus on cronyism was not accidental, she told Politico after it named her one of the 28 people most likely to shake up Europe in 2017. "I can't bear to see people like that rewarded," she said. Galizia started working as a journalist in the 1980s as a columnist with the Sunday Times of Malta, the Times of Malta reported. She later worked as an editor at the Malta Independent, before writing a column as well. Her blog, Running Commentary, was launched in 2008 and is one of the most popular websites on the island nation. Traffic to her website sometimes swelled to 400,000 readers, nearly equal to the country's population. Her last story was about court testimony that pertained to allegations about Muscat's chief of staff. Other recent stories included a dispatch about what she described was an unpermitted zoo operated by a man she said was a friend of the prime minister and other prominent individuals in Malta. Muscat spoke at a news conference on Monday. "Everyone knows Ms. Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way," he said on Maltese television, according to news reports. U.S. officials confirmed that Malta had requested the FBI's help with the investigation. Galizia had filed recent report with the police about the threats she was receiving, according to news media reports. "Daphne Caruana Galizia was a true investigative journalist. She did not shy from taking on the powerful in Malta's political, business and criminal worlds," said the deputy executive director of the Committee to Project Journalists, Robert Mahoney. "She probed the very authorities who are now charged with finding her killer or killers. For this reason, the investigation into her brutal murder must be beyond reproach. Anything less will send a terrible signal for journalists everywhere." Adrian Delia, the leader of Malta's Nationalist party, said in a statement posted on Twitter: "This is the collapse of democracy and freedom of expression. We shall not be silenced." In a sign of Galizia's far reach in the country, the duty magistrate assigned to start the inquiry in the case had previously taken her to court over a libel claim related to stories Galizia had written about her, Malta Today reported. Galizia's family has requested that the country's chief justice remove the duty magistrate from the inquiry, the publication reported. Galizia has three sons, Matthew, Andrew and Edward with her husband Peter Caruana Galizia, according to the Malta Independent. Thousands came out to mourn her at a vigil held Monday night. --- The Washington Post's Devlin Barrett contributed reporting. The future of the North American Free Trade Agreement hangs in the balance as the latest round of negotiations between the United States, Mexico, and Canada wraps up Tuesday. President Donald Trump has set out impossible-to-meet demands for Canada and Mexico, and he has threatened to walk away from the nearly 25-year-old trade pact if those countries don't play ball. But it may not be that easy - Congress, not the president, may have the ultimate authority to unwind a big trade deal. Numerous lawmakers and legal scholars believe that full withdrawal from NAFTA would require Congressional approval - or at the very least, lead to lengthy court battles that could delay the U.S. departure for years. U.S. trade negotiators have come to the latest round of talks with tough demands, including that the agreement be re-ratified every five years; that half of all automotive components be built in the United States, not in the other countries; and that it scraps the investor dispute settlement system that Mexico and Canada both like. Both those countries have categorically rejected the proposals, calling them "red lines," and vowed to walk away from the negotiating table. That uncertainty over the future of NAFTA is spooking financial markets, killing the Mexican peso, angering major industries in all three countries, and worsening relations between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Dismantling the pact would require rebuilding global supply chains and would mean a return to tariffs on goods the United States imports and exports - all of which would be painful. That's tempting some members of Congress to step in before major economic damage is done. On Sunday, Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., ranking member of the House Ways and Means Committee, suggested that Congress had the power to inhibit withdrawal from NAFTA. If the president "even suggests that the United States should leave NAFTA, to undo that relationship, you would have to go back to Congress," Neal said in an interview on Canadian television. "And that would be a much more difficult task for him." Neal's assertion isn't unfounded. A May 2017 report from the Congressional Research Service notes that the president clearly has the authority to end U.S. participation in international agreements, and NAFTA allows member countries to withdraw if they give six months' notice to the other members. But, the report notes, "Despite the President's ability to withdraw from the agreement, the repeal of statutory provisions implementing NAFTA would likely require congressional assent." Those statutory provisions refer to the NAFTA Implementation Act, the piece of legislation that actually put NAFTA provisions into force by ending tariffs and taking other measures. The president has no power to unilaterally undo a congressional statute; that would require an act of Congress. Under that reading, even if Trump were able to technically withdraw from NAFTA, the agreement's trade provisions would largely remain in force. There is no consensus among legal scholars, though. Joel Trachtman, a professor of international law at Tufts University, argues that Trump cannot terminate U.S. participation in a foreign trade agreement without the consent of Congress. He cites the 1994 Supreme Court caseBarclays v. California, which held that "the Constitution expressly grants Congress, not the President, the power to 'regulate Commerce with foreign Nations.'" "The president doesn't have power to unilaterally withdraw the United States from trade agreements, including NAFTA," Trachtman told Foreign Policy. "He could do it with congressional authorization, but there is no congressional authorization that currently exists." Jon Johnson, who advised the Canadian government on NAFTA negotiations in the 1990s, agrees. "Since NAFTA was approved by Congress under the authority expressly granted to Congress under the Commerce Clause, it follows that only Congress has the power to reverse that approval and cause the United States to withdraw from NAFTA," he wrote in a January report. But other scholars disagree. Michael Ramsey, a professor at the University of California San Diego School of Law, told Bloomberg, "The president generally has the ability to withdraw the United States from international agreements - that's part of his constitutional executive power in foreign affairs." Trachtman recommends Congress take preemptive action to remove that uncertainty. "If President Trump proposes to give notice to terminate NAFTA without congressional approval, U.S. exporters, and U.S. consumers, and perhaps also U.S. members of Congress, should sue," he wrote in May for The Hill. "Before we reach that point, Congress could pass legislation specifically denying the president authority to terminate these trade agreements, in order to avoid uncertainty. It has the power, and the responsibility, to do so." There are other ways to prevent a NAFTA withdrawal from taking effect as well. "General Motors or a member of Congress could bring a lawsuit - similar to his bans on certain immigrants," Trachtman said. "A court could issue an injunction saying, 'Don't do it.' " The last significant Civil War battle in Jefferson County, West Virginia, took place in August 1864 at Smithfield Crossing, a five-day slog between Union and Confederate forces that left some 300 casualties and neither side able to claim victory. But now a new skirmish with ties to the Civil War is brewing in the county seat, a picturesque town of 5,200 founded in 1786 by George Washington's youngest brother, Charles, that sits just 63 miles from the nation's capital. It is being waged not with bullets and bayonets, but with letters, public hearings and angry Facebook posts that serve as another reminder that the country has never fully erased the deepest lines of division and distrust of a war that ended 152 years ago. The focus of this new dispute is the fate of a plaque no larger than a cookie sheet that hangs next to the entrance of the Jefferson County Courthouse. It reads: "1861-1865 In honor and memory of the Confederate soldiers of Jefferson County, who served in the War Between the States. Erected by the Leetown Chapter #231 United Daughters of the Confederacy." Also on the plaque is the day of its placement: "Erected May 25, 1986." Many visitors to the courthouse - there to conduct business, handle legal matters, fill out marriage licenses, vote - walk past the sign without ever noticing it. Many, but not all. A year ago, Linda Ballard and her friends, all black women in their 60s and 70s who grew up in the county or live there now, took their granddaughters on the John Brown tour of Charles Town. The tour traces the last days of the abolitionist whose failed effort to lead a slave rebellion in 1859 resulted in his capture, trial in the Jefferson County Courthouse and hanging a few blocks away. As they entered the courthouse, the women noticed the plaque. It stopped them cold. They didn't understand why a tribute to soldiers from the side fighting to preserve slavery had such a prominent spot. "We thought, 'Well, why is this here? Why do we have to walk past this sign on a public building?' " Ballard remembered. "Our ancestors were enslaved in Jefferson County. I don't care where they put it, but take it from the entrance to the courthouse." The women were struck that there was no plaque honoring Union soldiers. Nor any acknowledgment that enslaved people - their ancestors - were sold and traded on those very courthouse steps. And why was a plaque honoring Confederates on the building that replaced the original courthouse, which was shelled and destroyed by Confederate troops? The date of the plaque also raised questions. Why, the women wondered, had the Daughters of the Confederacy waited 121 years after the war to place a tribute to Confederate soldiers? Who approved it? And did it have anything to do with 1986 being the same year Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federal holiday? The questions perturbed the women, and so they vowed to act. They considered asking the county for equal billing for Union troops, or for a mention of the courthouse as the site of slave auctions. As they pondered what to do, they witnessed bitter debates crop up across the nation over the legacy of Confederate statues and memorials. And then Charlottesville, Virginia, happened. Racial violence ripped through the Virginia town when white supremacists and neo-Nazis marched Aug. 12 to protest the planned removal of a Confederate statue. In its aftermath, President Donald Trump's declaration that blame was due on both sides - the white supremacists and those protesting them - sparked furor and further rent a deeply divided country. At stake was nothing short of who decides what history of the nation is told and how that is done. Three days after Charlottesville, the women wrote a letter to the commissioners of Jefferson County, where blacks make up about 7 percent of the 56,000 residents, requesting that "the bronze plaque sanctifying the Confederacy" be removed. "It is impossible to enter the courthouse to conduct business or to even vote without being taunted by its presence," they wrote. "The plaque perpetuates division at all levels on a wider scale." The six women - Ballard, Janet Baylor, Sylvia Gregory, Gloria Lindsey, Verdeana Lindsey and Brenda McCray - asked for the plaque to be taken down "without fanfare." They didn't want to make a big fuss. They just wanted the commissioners to "do what was just." They would be disappointed. Peter Onoszko, president of the five-member Jefferson County Commission, didn't hesitate to put the women's request before his colleagues. Their letter was presented for public discussion at the commission's Sept. 7 meeting. That day it didn't take long before Ballard and the other women began to feel things would not go their way. Onoszko talked about America's lengthy path toward reconciliation after the war and the "tortuous history" of reconciliation between black and white Americans. He cited progress in civil rights and achievements, including the election of a black president and the prominent positions African Americans had reached in the military and on the Supreme Court. But then Onoszko talked of the "small radical minority among both white and black Americans who seek to undermine over a century and a half of progress toward reconciliation between regions of America and the races of America, creating harmful division and discord among our people and threatening to destroy our country." "This has absolutely got to stop," he said. "We are all Americans." The public followed Onoszko's lead during the open session. "What we're seeing today is a deliberate attempt to divide us in every way possible," said Gary Dungan, who is white and lives in Jefferson County. "If they get their way with this little plaque, they will be back. And by they, I mean the radical minority that Commissioner Onoszko referred to. They'll be back looking for something bigger. And it will never end unless you end it here today." The women who wrote the letter sat stunned as they waited their turn to speak. Two of the women use canes. One requires an oxygen tank. They do not feel like radical minorities. They describe themselves as "six concerned American citizens." "Radical minorities? Where is this coming from?" thought McCray. "We are all human beings, we are not animals like they think we are." When it was Ballard's turn to speak, she said the women were present "because our ancestors are not here to represent themselves." "We are hopeful," she told the commissioners, "that in the memory of the people that were enslaved here in Jefferson County and of those who had the goal of preserving the Union that that plaque will be removed." Most residents that day spoke in favor of keeping the plaque, including some veterans who said all veterans should be honored, no matter which side they fought for in the Civil War. One speaker said it would be "Stalinesque" to remove the plaque. When the discussion ended, the commission's four Republicans and one Democrat, all of whom are white, voted 5 to 0 to keep the plaque. Then they created a citizens committee to look further into how forebears should be remembered at the courthouse. But they changed their minds, voting on Oct. 5 to scrap the citizens committee. The results are disappointing to the women who asked for the plaque's removal. But not unexpected. They still want it gone. And they still have questions about how it ended up there in the first place. Polly Wharton has some answers about the plaque's origins. Wharton was president of the Leetown chapter of the Daughters of the Confederacy in 1986 when the plaque was placed on the courthouse. The chapter has since disbanded, but Wharton, 74, remains a member of the national group and lives just outside Charles Town. The plaque, she said in an interview, had nothing to do with the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. It was conceived solely as a project to honor ancestors of chapter members. West Virginia was formed during the Civil War when it seceded from Virginia and was eventually admitted into the Union in 1863. But many residents of the new state's easternmost panhandle, which includes Jefferson County, continued to support and fight for the Confederacy. "I'm sorry they're upset about it," Wharton said. "We did not mean to offend anybody at all when we put it up there. People say it refers to supporting slavery, and it does not. Our ancestors did not have slaves, and we do not believe in slavery and we never did. It really hurts our feelings that they're saying that." Wharton says the chapter got an OK from the courthouse to put up the plaque but doesn't recall if the County Commission voted on it. She said she has not been contacted by anyone from the county about the plaque. Onoszko says the commission has not been able to find any record of a vote on the plaque. Though Wharton doesn't want the plaque taken down, she won't fight a decision to move it. "I also read an article saying that we were for the white extremists, and we are not for that," she said. "We are not for all this fighting against the removal even if they take it down. That's just not our way." Both sides in the controversy agree that the battle over the small plaque is symbolic. And they also agree that it's important. In the Spirit of Jefferson, the local newspaper founded in 1844, the debate has played out in robust coverage, pointed editorials and spirited posts on the paper's Facebook page. "This issue has become a big flash point," said Robert Snyder, the weekly paper's publisher, whose wife, Christine Snyder, is the managing editor and principal reporter. "This is an area that still lingers in the residue of the Civil War." The paper has called for the plaque's removal, sparking some backlash. "There should be a plaque for the est. 650,000 Americans killed after Lincoln's army invaded Virginia," one resident wrote. "This [is] all about tearing America down so a small minority of radicals can instill their version of communism on us," said another. In an interview, Onoszko said he wants to keep the plaque because "it's reflective of what happened in the 1860s and also because it is reflective of the mood of the local populace in 1986." It shows, he says, that 121 years after the war ended, the descendants of those who fought wanted to publicly acknowledge their ancestors. And, he argued, the soldiers honored by the plaque were fighting for each other, not for the cause of slavery. "The majority of whites living in the South did not own slaves," Onoszko said. "A lot of slaveholders had no more than three or four." For Ballard and her friends, the problem is not that the plaque exists, but that it is displayed on a prominent public building that serves as the governmental hub of the county. "What kind of message are you sending?" she asks. "We don't have any qualms about these people honoring whoever they want. The courthouse is not the place to do it." PRAGUE - The man poised to lead the Czech Republic following elections this week is a polarizing billionaire who vows to drain the swamp of this capital city's politics, run his country like a business and keep out Muslim immigrants. He casts himself as the straight-talking voice of the common man and derives support from the country's forgotten communities. He makes a sport of attacking the European Union and says NATO's mission is outdated. He pledges to put his own nation's interests above all else but is dogged by investigations into alleged shady dealings that threaten to cripple his political career. Andrej Babis is so similar to the U.S. president in profile and outlook that he feels compelled to offer at least one key distinction. "I was never bankrupt," the 63-year-old says mischievously in an interview at his featureless office park on the outskirts of this gloriously gargoyle-and-spire-pierced city. There are other differences, too. But the overall picture is clear: Europe, a land where President Donald Trump is widely reviled, could soon have a man who bears an uncanny resemblance leading a nation at the continent's heart. "People here may not like Trump," said Jiri Pehe, the director of New York University's Prague campus. "But they like Trumpian politics as performed by Mr. Babis." Babis won't be alone, either. If elections on Friday and Saturday vault him to the prime minister's office, as polls suggest they probably will, he could plant a flag further west for a strongman vision of government that is testing young democracies to the east - and in the process straining European unity. "He's no democrat," said Pehe, a former adviser to Vaclav Havel, the Czech anti-communist dissident-turned-president. "The danger here is that the Czech Republic could slide to the European periphery, along with Hungary and Poland." Austria, too, is now flirting with a shift in that direction, following an election Sunday that is likely to elevate to chancellor a 31-year-old conservative who has mimicked many of the policies of the far-right Freedom Party - and is expected to make the Eurosceptic party his partner in government. The Czech Republic's own turn toward the east is, in many respects, surprising. Of the nations that emerged from behind the Iron Curtain nearly three decades ago, the Czech Republic has fared the best by numerous measures. With a strong manufacturing base, it has the lowest unemployment rate in the E.U., a budget surplus and life satisfaction ratings that would be the envy of the Italians or the Spanish. Unlike Poland, it didn't suffer a mass exodus of its young workers. Unlike Hungary, it didn't have hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers crossing its territory at the height of the 2015 refugee crisis. But the Czech Republic does have persistently low wages, along with a political class that is notoriously beset by corruption. It also has older residents who yearn for the simpler days of their communist youth, when the all-powerful state protected them. The combination has made the nation of 10 million fertile ground for populism. And Babis, the country's second-wealthiest man, has seized the opportunity. The businessman, who initially earned his wealth under still-mysterious circumstances during the first years after communism's collapse, makes an unlikely champion of the little guy. Born in modern-day Slovakia as the son of a diplomat, he spent part of his youth in Switzerland and speaks fluent German, French and English. As an adult, he lived for years in Morocco. His vast business empire includes agricultural and chemical firms, Michelin-starred restaurants and a significant portion of the Czech national media. He was a political novice when, in 2012, he founded his own party, Action of Dissatisfied Citizens, which is known by its Czech acronym ANO, meaning "yes." The party, running on a pro-business and anti-political-establishment platform, stunned the nation a year later when it took second place in parliamentary elections. Babis became finance minister in a coalition government, and served until May, when he was forced out amid a swirl of accusations over alleged tax evasion and other improprieties - all of which he denies. But the ouster didn't weaken him. If anything, it may have bolstered his carefully cultivated reputation as a political outsider whom the insiders will do anything to ruin. "People are saying that I'm a danger to democracy in this country, which of course is ridiculous," he said, his gray suit neatly pressed, his gray hair and beard trimmed tight. "I'm a danger to this corrupt system." It's a message that he repeats relentlessly on the trail, where he signs copies of his slickly produced campaign book and gives out his cellphone number to people who say they could use his help battling the turgid Czech bureaucracy. "He's a normal guy," said Zdena Krskova, a 69-year-old who was shopping for dinner one day at an open-air market in a working-class neighborhood of north Prague. "Plus, he has enough money, so he doesn't need to steal from the people." Babis's support is concentrated outside Prague, in smaller cities and towns that haven't shared the same bump in prosperity as the country's tourist-thronged capital. It also comes from older voters who are looking to the billionaire to cut through the messy logistics of democratic politics and use a firm hand to restore a simpler, bygone time, said Daniel Prokop, head of political polling for the research firm Median. "His voters are authoritarian-oriented," Prokop said. "If you ask whether it's better to have a strong leader or democratic decision-making, his people say strong leader." And there's a reason they gravitate to Babis. "He's used to getting his way," said Jan Machacek, who runs a think tank funded by Babis's firms. "Compromise is not in his genes." Machacek, who was a dissident during communist times, said the billionaire's political rise reflects widespread disappointment among Czech voters who had high hopes for a democratic system they thought could solve the nation's ills. Instead, he said, they got weak parties and corrupt politicians. The consequence of such disillusionment, he said, "could be a lot worse than Mr. Babis." Unlike Trump, Machacek said, Babis is no showboat. He is a demanding businessman but doesn't deliberately sow chaos. Yet Babis has shown a willingness to pick fights with powerful European leaders, particularly on the issue of refugees. In the interview, Babis mocked programs under which E.U. members are supposed to share the burden of taking in asylum seekers, disparaged the notion of a "multicultural society" and, referring to the German chancellor, blamed the 2015 refugee crisis on "the stupidity of Madame Merkel." Such comments could mean more trouble for the E.U., which is grappling with how to handle populist governments in Hungary and Poland. In both countries, the leaders are well practiced at demonizing migrants and flouting the will of Brussels for domestic gain. Babis seems to be employing a similar approach - at least during the campaign. "He's operating with fear. Promoting danger - the E.U. and migrants," said Ivan Gabal, an independent member of Parliament who is aligned with the center-right Christian Democrats. "That's the whole strategy." In the Czech Republic - where anti-E.U. and anti-migrant sentiment both run high - it seems to be a winning one. But it's not unusual here, and Babis came to it relatively late. Even if Babis's party comes out on top this month, he will need to find coalition partners. He will also have to contend with multiple investigations into his business practices. And he will need to work with Europe. All of which suggests that, like Trump, Babis may shift course on some of his campaign promises once he confronts the reality of governing. And unlike Trump, Gabal said, Babis is capable of admitting when he's wrong. "When you put data in front of him and say, 'You're not right. The situation is different,' he'll look at it. And accept it," said Gabal, whose party has been in coalition with Babis's - and may be once again post-election. "He's not stupid." Dozens of Islamic State militants were killed Monday by U.S. airstrikes targeting training camps in Yemen, the Pentagon said. The camps were in Al Bayda Governorate, where the militants trained to use small arms, according to the Pentagon. Al Bayda is a sprawling region southeast of the capital, Sanaa, that has been the focus of U.S. military action. SACRAMENTO - Holding a pride-of-place spot on State Sen. Kevin de Leon's office wall is a painting by a San Francisco artist. The picture renders in water color a roaring bear, the state symbol, its hind legs set in a bed of California poppies. De Leon is the Los Angeles Democrat who runs the California state senate, a politician who perhaps more than any other is shaping the character of its political project, which he casts unabashedly in opposition to the administration in Washington. The words that run next to the rampant bear underscore the point. "California was not part of this nation when its history began," the script reads. "But we are clearly now the keeper of its future." That ambition was declared a day after Donald Trump's election to the presidency - by de Leon and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, another Los Angeles-area Democrat. It can be read now as the founding charter of the California resistance, a political ethos that is progressive in spirit, aggressively ambitious in approach, and often expensive for those who live in the state, including those who can least afford it. The first legislative session since Trump's election concluded last month and, by all assessments, was one of the most productive in years. Democrats here split the agenda in two: What would have been taken on regardless of who is president, and what was necessary to take on because of who is president. De Leon said the session's goal for the state was to help "make the California dream affordable" in a way that celebrates its cultural diversity and preserves its crackling economy, the sixth largest in the world. But the message beyond the legislative record is as unmistakable as is the man to whom it is directed: Where California heads, so should the nation. "If John Kasich, Jeb Bush or many other Republicans had won the presidency, I as a Democrat would have been disappointed, but I would have moved on," he said. "This is uniquely different. Right away we saw that Donald J. Trump was a clear and present danger to our prosperity, to our progressive values and to our people." The mythology of California is rooted in a libertarian adventurism that turned out poorly for the doomed Donner Party but has helped enrich Silicon Valley. Now, though, the Western brand of Republican politics once exemplified by Ronald Reagan has been flattened by demographic change and the unpopularity of the party's national standard-bearer. Trump lost California by nearly 30 points in November and has yet to visit the state as president. State Democratic leaders are largely unrestrained here by the shrinking opposition. The only brake on their grandest ambitions is their own ideological divide, recognizable as the same fight taking place within the party nationally. Here the argument has emerged around immigration, regulation and health care - that is, questions about just how expansive and expensive the agenda should be. Lawmakers passed measures that expanded environmental regulations opposed by Republicans in Washington, declared the entire state a "sanctuary" for its more than 2 million undocumented immigrants and made more transparent the cost of pharmaceutical drug prices at a time when Washington appears unable to move on health care. "We have shown that we can proceed despite Washington," said de Leon, the force behind the California Values Act, the "sanctuary state" law that has been condemned by the Trump administration. "We know Washington is not doing it, so we have to." But the costs associated with some of the legislature's most substantive achievements will fall on California taxpayers in the years ahead, making a state with the highest poverty rate in the country an even more expensive place to live. Lawmakers increased the gas tax by 66 percent and raised other transportation-related fees. The moves are expected to raise $52 billion during the next decade to rebuild the state's patchwork roads and creaky bridges - the infrastructure measure, Democrats here say, that the Trump administration has promised and failed to deliver. To address the state's highest-in-the-nation housing costs, lawmakers placed a $4 billion bond measure on next year's ballot and made it easier to build houses within neighborhoods. "There is a lot of talk about how progressive the session was, but I feel it was very regressive," said State Sen. Patricia Bates, the chamber's Republican leader. "Our low- and middle-income folks are going to see the cost of living go way up - and we're already there." Bates represents a stretch of coastal southern Orange and northern San Diego counties that has traditionally favored the GOP's stand on fiscal issues. She is troubled by the occasional distraction of Trump's tweeting and, like many other California Republicans, by the implication of some of his statements on race and immigration. But she is skeptical of the dominant Democratic government in California. She wryly pronounces the opposition's "resistance" in an exaggerated French accent, and calls much of the agenda "sloganeering and not much else." Republicans point to a few measures that will fall hardest on the poor: the 12-cent per gallon increase in the gas tax; higher real estate transaction fees meant to help finance affordable housing construction, and a requirement that a prevailing wage be paid to construction workers for medium-sized and large apartment projects. That wage stipulation was the price Democrats paid to labor for support the housing package. But Republicans say it will add tens of thousands of dollars to each new project built, making them less affordable. Bates said Democratic leaders excluded her caucus from much of the legislating this year, except in the move to extend by a decade the state's cap-and-trade environmental law, which requires greenhouse-gas producing businesses to buy permits to do so. The bill, a priority of Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown's, passed with some Republican votes. That support, though, cost the Republican leader in the Assembly his post after the party rebelled, a sign of its division over how much to cooperate with the Democratic agenda. The Democrats had disagreements of their own. Brown, who succeeded Reagan as governor in the 1970s and returned to office in 2011, ruled out an early version of the sanctuary state bill because of concerns it raised among state and federal law enforcement officials. The bill would have prevented state and local police agencies from communication with federal immigration officials and from asking people about their immigration status, among other measures. Brown worried that it would do too much to protect undocumented immigrants who commit crimes. Negotiations produced a compromise that allows state and local law enforcement agents to work with federal immigration authorities in the jails, leaving the rest of the measure largely intact. Brown signed it into law earlier this month. The bigger breach came over the push to create a single-payer health insurance program, an enormously expensive undertaking that received support from the powerful California Nurses Association. The measure would have paid the health care expenses of all state residents, including undocumented immigrants. Cost estimates ran as high as $400 billion a year - more than twice the state budget - and the bill included no way to pay for it. De Leon pushed it through the State Senate, nonetheless. But Rendon, the Assembly speaker, would not take it up, to the enormous frustration of the state Democratic Party's left wing. He called it "woefully incomplete," positioning himself as a pragmatist to de Leon's more aggressive approach. The idea is not dead, especially with the national health care debate unsettled. Lawmakers plan to have hearings this fall on the feasibility of a single-payer system, though little is likely to happen before the 2018 election, which will bring in a new governor and senate leader. De Leon is prevented by term limits from running again; he has announced he is challenging four-term U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D, in next year's primary. "The best resistance is for us is to continue to thrive economically," said Kevin Liao, Rendon's press secretary. "Yes, at times, we will fight back, as was the case with the sanctuary state bill. But we were elected as representatives of California and we will continue to take that seriously." Fez is the Kingdom's fourth largest city of Morocco, the famous ancient capital. Morocco and China have agreed to set up an economic zone in Morocco's northern city of Fez, offering a platform for boosting bilateral cooperation in various industries, local media reported Monday.A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Fes-Meknes Regional Investment Center and the China Industrial Cooperation Association, the financial daily L'Economiste reported. The deal aims to establish an economic zone as a platform to attract Chinese investments in the fields of automobile, aviation, agriculture, health and renewable energy, the report said. Bilateral economic cooperation between Morocco and China has been growing steadily since the establishment of a strategic partnership during the Moroccan king's visit to China in May 2016. Since then, Morocco has witnessed a wave of Chinese investment in the country, especially in the areas of infrastructure construction and industrialization. In June 2016, Morocco granted Chinese citizens visa-free entry to the North African kingdom. Canada continues to move forward on national legalization of marijuana, which is set to happen in July 2018. But, one product will have to wait a year beyond that date: edible marijuana. While the wait will delay what has been a profitable business in U.S. states where cannabis is legal, it's a win for the marijuana industry because edibles originally were not going to be legal at all. When Canadian leaders first drafted the legislation that will make both medical and recreational marijuana legal across the nation, they decided not to include marijuana-infused edible products. However, that changed this month after a vote by the Canadian House of Commons health committee. The committee decided to allow edible sales, but not until July 2019. Related: Polls Find Voters In Pennsylvania, New Jersey Support Legal Marijuana Edible delay Why delay edibles in the first place? Because some have concerns about the potency of the products and the lack of knowledge among the public about how they work. Put simply, edible users typically wait longer to feel the effects of marijuana because they work through the body's digestive system rather than the quicker route through the respiratory system. That's an issue because people sometimes eat more than recommended when they don't immediately feel the effects. Perhaps the most famous case of this involved New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd, who ate too much of a marijuana-infused chocolate bar, ending up "panting and paranoid" and incapacitated for eight hours. However, the committee allowed edibles -- but not until 2019 -- after hearing testimony from experts. Some, including the Colorado official who oversees regulated marijuana in that state, advocated a delay. Others, including a Johns Hopkins University professor who has studied the effects of cannabis, said legalized edibles should happen immediately to derail the black market. The professor, Ryan Vandrey, also questioned the idea that edibles are more potent than smoking marijuana. He told the committee, "It's really just the differences in the time course of the effects. I would disagree in the argument that you can't perceive the intoxication when you eat it. People are very aware that they're intoxicated." Coincidentally, the committee's vote came out as a new survey shows a great deal of interest among Canadians for trying edibles. Related: Is Alaska Poised to Be the Best State for Pot? Canadians interested in edibles A new survey conducted by Ipsos for Global News found that Canadians, particularly young ones, are very interested in trying edible cannabis products. Among those surveyed, only seven percent said they regularly use edible marijuana products now. However, 29 percent of those in the survey say they plan to try it when cannabis becomes legal in Canada. Of those between the ages of 18 and 34, 51 percent said they plan to try edibles. Those numbers drop significantly with older respondents. Of those between 35 and 54, about 28 percent said they would try edibles. Among those 55 years and older, the number dropped to 14 percent. Non-smokers, for obvious reasons, were more interested in edibles than smokers. And while more men in the survey than women said they planned to try smoking marijuana once it's legal, an about equal number of men and women said they planned to try edibles. Other findings from the survey included: About seven percent of respondents said they would drink less alcohol once pot becomes legal. That number was higher among millennials (about 11 percent). About 37 percent of respondents said they will still disapprove of family and friends using marijuana after it becomes legal. The disapproval numbers were highest among university graduates (44 percent) and older respondents, with 45 percent of those 55 and older saying they would disapprove. That contrasts to just 22 percent among millennials. In perhaps the most interesting question -- especially for those with concerns about the marijuana black market -- respondents were asked why they don't use marijuana now and were given multiple reasons to pick. Most chose "not interested" (77 percent) or "respect for current law" (19 percent). Less than two percent chose "don't know who to approach to buy." To stay up to date on the latest marijuana related news make sure to like dispensaries.com on Facebook Related: In Canada, Marijuana Edible Sales Delayed Even As Interest Among Canadians Grows Adult-Use Cannabis Is Legal but Very, Very Regulated. Marijuana Advocates, Your Enemy Has a Name: SAM Copyright 2017 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved This article originally appeared on entrepreneur.com Bunker Hill 10/06/2017 at 12:50 p.m., Officer's investigated a Burglary of a Motor Vehicle report, in the 17 block of Stone Gate Drive. The victim reported that sometime during the night unknown persons entered the unlocked car and took a wallet. Detectives are investigating the crime. 10/11/17 at 5:58 p.m., Officer was dispatched to a report of Identity Theft in the lobby of the Memorial Villages Police Department. The victim reported that an unknown person used his identifying information without his consent to purchase a cellular telephone under his account. Piney Point 10/09/2017 at 6:12 p.m., Officer's were dispatched to the 200 block of Blalock Road in regards to a one vehicle major accident with a fatality. The accident was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety along with the assistance of the Harris County Sheriff's Department. MVPD CID Detectives were notified and are assisting. 10/11/2017 at 2:27 p.m., Officer investigated a report of Theft in the 300 block of Piney Point Road. The victim reported that an unknown person had removed equipment from a construction site. Detectives are investigating. Hunters Creek 10/07/17 at 2:21 a.m., Officer investigated a Burglary of a Motor Vehicle (x2) report in the 900 block of Boros. Unknown persons stole a tire from the vehicle along with a GPS and a spare tire from another vehicle. CID Detectives were notified and responded to process the scene and retrieved latent fingerprints from the victim's vehicle. Detectives are investigating 10/07/17 at 9:56 a.m., an Officer responded to a report of Felony Theft from the 900 block of Huntington Cove. The victim reported that unknown persons (possible contractors) stole various pieces of jewelry from their residence. Detectives are following up. The European Union's poorest member is seeking to offer a clearer path toward membership for the western Balkans to prevent a return to the instability that ravaged the continent's most volatile region two decades ago. Bulgaria, which will assume the EU's six-month rotating presidency in January, is pushing for the world's biggest trading bloc to offer more concrete guidance on how Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia, Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina can join its ranks, Liliana Pavlova, Bulgaria's minister in charge of the EU presidency, said last week in Sofia, the capital. While two countries that were once part of the former Yugoslavia are now part of the 28-member EU, most of the rest are struggling to integrate and join the wave of rising living standards in ex-communist Europe. Following a decade that included the Greek debt catastrophe, the arrival of millions of refugees and Brexit, Bulgaria plans to shift the discussion from crisis management to enlargement as it prepares to preside over a bloc-wide summit in May. "We can't change Europe's agenda in six months, but we should be able to give to each of these countries a clear action plan based on their achievements and progress in resolving their problems," Pavlova said. "Otherwise the rifts between the regions would deepen." Her proposals range from improving air, railroad and energy links among Balkan nations to reducing roaming rates in the way they were lifted for EU citizens this year. Nearly two decades after Europe's bloodiest conflict since World War II ended in the Balkans, the ex-communist region's only countries to achieve EU entry have been Slovenia, Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria. The latter two remain the poorest in the bloc and have been criticized for failing to tackle corruption and improve the judiciary. The shortcomings have impeded entry into the bloc's border-free Schengen area. In the rest of the western Balkans, most countries are trying to balance goals of joining the EU and maintaining ties with traditional allies such as Russia, a dynamic that's split government loyalties and hampered efforts to align economies and laws with EU standards. "The EU has yet to establish whether it's possible to speak of a common foreign policy with the western Balkans," Vessela Cherneva, senior program director at the European Council of Foreign Relations, said by phone. "Bulgaria has yet to convince skeptical countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany and France to listen to the problems of the western Balkans." To meets its goal of being ready for EU membership by 2020, Serbia must repair ties with Kosovo, whose 2008 independence it refuses to recognize. Montenegro needs to fight graft and organized crime to advance entry talks. While Albania has candidate status, the start of membership talks hinges on judicial reform. To the east, the Republic of Macedonia renewed its EU push after a leadership change this year. But it needs to resolve a name dispute with Greece, which has also blocked its neighbor's attempts to join NATO. Bosnia-Herzegovina, the hardest-hit by Yugoslavia's violent breakup, must strengthen public administration before it moves to accession talks after applying in 2016. Kosovo can advance its accession agenda after forming a new government last month. While Brexit and plans for deeper EU integration complicate further expansion, enlargement Commissioner Johannes Hahn has declared Serbia and Montenegro "frontrunner candidates." He's vowed to step up work toward bringing western Balkan countries into the EU through 2025. WASHINGTON - The Supreme Court on Monday accepted a second important case on digital privacy, agreeing to hear a dispute between the federal government and Microsoft about emails stored overseas. The justices increasingly have been called upon to settle legal battles between law enforcement and technology companies, and to interpret laws written before the technology revolution that now raise pertinent questions about privacy. The justices next month will hear a case involving prosecutors' access to the historical data stored in cellphone tower records. Legal experts noted that the court accepted both that case and the one involving Microsoft even though there was no split among lower courts on the law underlying the decisions, something that usually happens before the Supreme Court gets involved. "It's plausible that the splitless grants in both [cases] signal a recognition among the justices of the tremendous importance of digital evidence collection," George Washington University law professor Orin Kerr wrote in a blog post. "Whatever the right answers are, the justices need to provide them." The case the court accepted Monday began in 2013 when U.S. prosecutors got a warrant to access emails in a drug-trafficking investigation. It was served on Microsoft in Redmond, Washington. But the data sought was stored on its servers in Ireland. (The company has more than 100 centers in 40 countries.) Microsoft turned over information it had stored domestically but contended that U.S. law enforcement couldn't seize evidence held in another country. It said that if it was forced to turn over such information, it would lead to claims from other countries about data stored here. A judge upheld the warrant, but a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit overturned the ruling. The full circuit then split evenly on whether that decision was correct, and one judge wrote that the Supreme Court needed to provide the ultimate answer. The Justice Department asked the justices to do just that and to reverse the lower court. It said that a "domestic recipient of a subpoena is required to produce specified materials within the recipient's control, even if the recipient stores the materials abroad." Thirty-three states also urged the court to take the case, U.S. v. Microsoft. They said that the decision has implications for other technology giants such as Google and Yahoo and that it was "remarkable" that the 2nd Circuit had held "that a private company has unfettered discretion to shield evidence of crime from law enforcement, simply by electronically sending that evidence out of the jurisdiction." Deputy Solicitor General Jeffrey Wall told the court that "hundreds if not thousands of investigations of crimes - ranging from terrorism, to child pornography, to fraud - are being or will be hampered by the government's inability to obtain electronic evidence." But Microsoft contends that the Stored Communications Act of 1986 did not imagine a world in which "a technician in Redmond, Washington, could access a customer's private emails stored clear across the globe." In a blog posted after the court's announcement, Microsoft president and chief legal officer Brad Smith wrote that the government's position endangers privacy. "If the U.S. government can unilaterally use a warrant to seize emails outside the United States, what's to stop other governments from acting unilaterally to seize emails stored inside the United States?" Smith wrote. "At a time when countries are rightly worried about foreign government hacking, the DOJ's interpretation would open the door to accomplishing the same thing." But the company had urged the court to stay out and allow Congress to amend the law, which Smith noted the Justice Department has asked Congress to do. "The current laws were written for the era of the floppy disk, not the world of the cloud," Smith wrote. The justices already are scheduled to consider in late November whether police need a warrant to access cellphone location data held by wireless service providers, another major case involving digital privacy. The court accepted two other cases Monday that touch on law enforcement. In one, the justices will decide whether defendants can suppress wiretap evidence if the warrant that allowed collecting the data exceeded the court's discretion. Brothers Los and Roosevelt Dahda were indicted on drug distribution conspiracy charges. In obtaining their convictions, the federal government relied on wiretaps authorized on several cellphones. Some of the incriminating evidence was gathered when the cellphones were outside Kansas, where the authorizing judge was located. A panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit agreed that a federal law seemed to say such evidence could be suppressed. But it reasoned that the evidence from the warrant did not violate Congress's "core concerns" of privacy and uniformity when it wrote the law. Justice Neil Gorsuch sat on the panel that heard the case, although he was not part of the rendered decision. He recused himself from the case, Dahda v. U.S., when it got to the Supreme Court. The court will also decide a double-jeopardy case from Virginia. Michael Currier was charged with three counts arising from the theft of a safe that contained cash and 20 guns. He was charged with breaking and entering, grand larceny, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which referred to the guns inside the safe. To keep the jury from being prejudiced by the knowledge that Currier was a felon, he and the commonwealth agreed to have the charges tried separately. A jury found Currier not guilty of the first two charges, which involved stealing the safe. But over Currier's objections, prosectors then tried him on the third charge - possession of the guns - and this time a different jury convicted him. He was sentenced to five years in prison. Lower courts did not agree with Currier that the second trial was a violation of his constitutional protections against being tried repeatedly for the same offense. The case is Currier v. Virginia. --- VIDEO: An influential congressman and experts in their field discuss the delicate balance between security and individual liberty and the debate between public safety and privacy concerns. --http://wapo.st/2xPZvPv -- Photo taken on May 14, 2017 shows Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former Prime Minister of France delivering his speech during the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, China. Photo/ VCG A former French prime minister said the 19th National Congress of Communist Party of China (CPC) will have a profound influence on the world. "It is going to be a very important meeting, and China is a country of great significance," Jean-Pierre Raffarin said in an interview with People's Daily, adding that the significant meeting should never be underestimated. "As the world's second largest economy, China is increasingly influencing the world, Raffarin said. In this sense, the Congress is closely linked with the world, he added. In the last five years, thorough domestic reform and mutually beneficial cooperation with other countries has not only helped China itself but also helped China assist other developing countries. China has also attached great importance to the development of multi-polarity and multilateralism, taking great responsibility in the international community, Raffarin said. He added that he hopes China to maintain its development policies and momentum of the past five years. He believes that China has long been proving to the world that strong economic growth is a major global driving force, stressing that China also helps promote world peace and stability. As a key player in BRICS, G20 and other groups, China has helped other countries forge agreements and consensus over the last five years. "The world recognizes its role," Raffarin said. Still faced with the threat of war, the world yearns for peace, and we expect the peaceful role of China under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, he said. Raffarin explained that the 19th CPC National Congress will highlight China's strategies and policies in the next five years. Taking the Belt and Road initiative as an example, it not only promotes economic development but also contributes to peace, he said. "In the next five years, the Belt and Road initiative will accelerate global economic growth and enhance non-governmental exchanges. As a result, world peace will be maintained ... It is Chinas most important role," Raffarin noted. He firmly believes China will continue to play a major role in balancing the international order and safeguarding world peace. "France and China share broad consensus on promoting multilateralism and enhancing international cooperation," Raffarin said, adding that the vision for a balanced, multi-polar and peaceful world is the basis for the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. "I sincerely hope that both sides maintain and deepen exchanges," he said. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Last week, President Donald Trump threatened to end Affordable Care Act subsidies or government payments to insurance companies that help reduce the healthcare costs of low and middle-income families. Democrats have argued that end of the subsidies would cause premiums to increase and lead to the loss of coverage for millions of Americans. But even before Trump began his attempt to repeal Obamacare, the market-driven solution to healthcare was already encountering road bumps. INSPIRING: Texas A&M professor continues to teach while battling cancer at MD Anderson A 2016 study found that monthly insurance premiums for Obamacare were expected to increase by an average of 25 percent by 2017 due to insurance companies dropping out of the market or raising rates because they believed the initial premiums were too low. One reason Obamacare has been unable to curb the trend of rising premiums is the cost of medical treatment itself. "The Affordable Care Act reduced the price to consumers, but it didn't reduce the actual, unit price," Johns Hopkins health policy professor Gerard Anderson told Vox. "It essentially made everything affordable to people, but the prices actually accelerated in growth post-ACA." DETAILS: Trump blows up Obamacare, leaves millions uninsured The best way to see how over-priced medical treatment is in the U.S. is by comparing it to other countries. A 2015 study by the International Federation of Health Plans, a network of global health insurers, compared the prices of common medical produces across the world. For example, the study found that the average MRI in the U.S. costs $1,119, but costs $788 in the United Kingdom and $215 in Australia. See how much medical procedures and drugs cost in other countries vs. the U.S. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Dust billowed from her garage on Tuesday afternoon as Chanta Scott sat in the car, at the end of her driveway, and reviewed her daughter's second-grade homework folder. She pulled up to check on her home renovations after Hurricane Harvey floodwater turned her subdivision into a lake and destroyed 111 Habitat for Humanity homes. The particles in the air followed screeching as her high school friend-turned-contractor cut ceramic tiles for a new floor in her foyer. "I evacuated with my baby in swimming pool," said Scott, a licensed vocational nurse at Texas Children's Hospital who lives in northeast Houston's Harrel Park, Houston Habitat for Humanity's newest development. "It's so hard when you're a first-time homeowner and you completely lose everything." Now Playing: Helping Flooded Homeowners Rebuild Scott, 46, is among thousands of homeowners in the Houston area grappling with the rebuilding process after an unprecedented storm who will benefit from major local contributions and assistance from Habitat for Humanity International's Habitat Hammers Back to address long-term recovery from recent hurricanes in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico. Everyone affiliated with Habitat for Humanity knew that the Harvey recovery would be more difficult for their families. Those who pay mortgages on Habitat houses are first-time homeowners who earn very modest incomes, contribute "sweat equity" to construction and place most of their financial resources in their residences. Another 65 homeowners lost everything in Greensbrook, a Habitat subdivision in northeast Harris County. The question was clear: How would these homeowners rebuild on shoestring budgets and even thinner fallback resources? Some of the answers for 176 families in Harrel Park and Greensbrook came Tuesday with the announcement of a $3.7 million contribution to Houston Habitat from Aramco Services, a business management subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's state-owned oil company. The gift will fill the gap between whatever insurance or FEMA pays and the costs of repairs, Houston Habitat CEO Allison Hay said. Each home will receive a new air conditioning unit, washing machine, clothes dryer, refrigerator, stove and microwave as well as mold certifications and other items as needed. This week, Ashley HomeStore will make a formal announcement about providing replacement furniture for the 176 families during private shopping events. Hay said the goal is to have all of the residents back in their homes by the end of the year. On Tuesday, Habitat International's CEO Jonathan Reckford called the Houston affiliate's efforts are "very ambitious" given the 3-to-5-year recovery window for most people who lost their homes. "These low-income families suffer the most in these disasters, but we've also seen the unbelievable power of what happens when communities come together to rebuild," he said. "There are years of work ahead." After Harvey flooded southeast Texas in late August, Irma whirled into Florida on September 10 and Maria punched Puerto Rico 10 days later. Habitat Hammers Back aims to raise $100 million in cash and in-kind donations for 6,000 families 2,000 each in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico including some of whom are not in Habitat homes. Reckford appeared in Houston to announce the effort with Habitat for Humanity of Puerto Rico Executive Director Amanda Silva and south Florida's Habitat for Humanity of Collier County President Nick Kouloheras. Houston Habitat homeowners can handle their own repairs or involve the organization in their rebuilding efforts. The nonprofit made its first renovations to affected houses on Monday. Marlin Berry, owner of The Carpenter Shop a renovation business based in Madisonville started working on Scott's house two weeks ago and has replaced Sheetrock, painted the kitchen yellow and used "piggy bank pink" to brighten the bedroom of 7-year-old Brooke Jones. "I'm going to try to have it all done by the first week in November," Berry said. Across the street, Beverly Dupree Price was figuring her next steps as a contractor marked her repaired walls in the kitchen for cabinets. "I went to bed one night with everything and to wake up and see everything you have just gone it is devastating. If it wasn't for God and the word of God instilled in me, I would have lost it," the 66-year-old Wal-Mart cashier and evangelist said. Price pointed out what she needs to replace. Homeowner's insurance wasn't any help without flood coverage, she said, so she's buying items with every paycheck and gifts from colleagues at work. A new tub she purchased last weekend sat in its side in the master bathroom. She's grateful for the forthcoming furniture and appliances provided by Habitat but said the recovery reaches beyond belongings."Words cannot explain how I feel," she said. "It still hurts. I have to constantly pray." This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Gina Shore feels it in her bones: There must have been more. Sure as the tick-tick of the clock winding down her brother's final hours. Certain as the needle the state of Texas will slip into his arm. Fixed as the gruesome fates of the four girls he raped and murdered. "I know in my heart without a doubt that there are more," she said. "There had to have been other girls." But if there are, the world may never know. Now Playing: Researchers say they have now proven that a controversial diary actually belonged to Jack The Ripper. Josh King has the story. Video: JW Player Anthony Shore, the notorious Tourniquet Killer who terrorized the Bayou City in the 1980s and 1990s, is set to meet his fate Wednesday in Huntsville's death chamber. APPEAL: Houston serial killer loses appeal one week before scheduled execution "I think it will give closure," Gina said. "Then when people ask what about him, we can just say he's dead." The 55-year-old former telephone technician was sent to death row in 2004, after confessing to the rapes and murders then begging the court for capital punishment. He'd escaped detection for nearly two decades, but ultimately it was DNA put on file after he was convicted of molesting his daughters and forced to register as a sex offender that brought police to his door. Since arriving on death row, he's waged a war against the state's harshest punishment, filing appeals blaming everything from ineffective lawyers to previously unrealized brain damage. As of Monday, courts had slapped down all his last-ditch bids for life and the state's Board of Pardons and Paroles had turned down his request for clemency, according to Shore's attorney, Knox Nunnally. Yet Shore's youngest sister, Laurel Scheel, holds a creeping fear of a darker chance for a stay a last-minute slew of confessions. Houston police and the Harris County Sheriff's Office both confirmed he is not considered a suspect in any open cases. But his family members who spoke extensively to the Chronicle have their doubts. "He's good at keeping things hidden," Laurel said. Since his sentencing, Shore has been tight-lipped with the media, even as he fired off a regular string of upbeat and neatly penned missives to his family. "I will likely get a stay, but ya' just never know," he wrote his father in July, the same day a judge greenlit prosecutors' request for an October execution. "I'd prefer to live a bit longer but am ready if it's God's will." Decades before his name became synonymous with a trail of bodies, Anthony Shore was a little boy with promise. Smart as a whip and talented at any instrument set before him, he was "a musical prodigy who never realized his potential," as author Corey Mitchell wrote in his 2007 true-crime tale of the case. "All my girlfriends were in love with him because he was so charismatic and cute," Laurel, now 47, said of her older brother, who taught her how to fight. Their father's work with NASA forced the family to move cross-country repeatedly, but otherwise it was a normal upbringing. "The only messed up part of my childhood was that my mom and dad split up," Gina, now 53, recalled. But there were early signs something was amiss. Tony killed a neighbor's cat when he was 5 or 6, "because he didn't want it to run away," Gina said. DATE WITH DEATH: Houston's 'Tourniquet Killer' set for October execution And as he grew older, his pastimes grew more sinister. He used his sister as bait to lure young girls outside. He once boasted that he and some friends had beaten a homeless man to death behind a grocery store. Some actions, though, seemed off-kilter only in retrospect, like the time he told his mom his favorite thing about his girlfriend was "the nape of her neck." It seemed innocent enough at the time. "But then he turned out to be a strangler," Laurel said. After spending the later part of his childhood in California, Tony moved back to Texas as a young adult. He settled down and got married. He had two daughters. He got a job. He joined a band. And he became a serial killer. In 1986, he slaughtered 14-year-old Laurie Tremblay, snatching the girl up on her way to the bus stop. Six years later, he raped and murdered 21-year-old Maria del Carmen Estrada before leaving her naked body in the drive-through of a Spring Branch Dairy Queen. In 1994, he killed 9-year-old Diana Rebollar. When her battered body was found, she was wearing only a black Halloween T-shirt and a ligature twisted around her neck. Less than a year later, he murdered 16-year-old Dana Sanchez, then reportedly called a local TV station to report a serial killer on the loose. All of the victims were raped and tortured before he strangled them with handmade tourniquets. When he finally confessed to the four murders and another rape, his family was shocked. But they believed it right away. "There wasn't a doubt in my mind," Laurel said. "Because of what he did to his daughters." For years, Gina suspected something was amiss in her brother's household. Five times, she says, she reported her concerns to child-welfare authorities in Texas. During a visit to Texas in 1995, one of Gina's friends reported Tony for child endangerment after noticing the windows nailed shut. "They were locked in the house, they had no running water and no power," Gina said. But it wasn't until the girls visited family on the West Coast in 1997 during Tony's honeymoon following marriage to a woman 14 years his junior that the truth came out. Even after his conviction forced him on the sex offender registry in 1998, it took another five years before authorities finally tested cold-case evidence and matched a murder to Shore. "I think he knew he was going to get caught," Laurel said. Even as he waits out his last days behind bars, his family still describes him as a master manipulator. A control freak. A man always seeking to control the narrative. But he confessed when it suited him. He asked for death when it suited him. And he argued for life when that suited him instead. Years ago, Laurel said, she predicted an end-of-the-line appeal hinging on medical issues. "And sure as s***, that was his last plea," she said, referencing the claims of brain damage from a 1981 car wreck that left him with mangled hands and a wire in his jaw. "I think it's a load of crap," said his younger daughter, Tiffany Hall, now 32 and living in Arizona. Gina simply snorted in derision. "The only reason I can see him wanting a stay is so he can torture his victims and his family by being alive." But whenever death comes calling for Anthony Shore, his family won't be there to watch. His father, Rob Shore, plans to stay home. Gina and her mother, who now live together in Washington, may stop to remember him but not fondly. "I would have never been for the death penalty if it had not been for my brother," Gina said. Laurel agrees. "He should be killed," she said. "He was a good brother, but he's not a good person." Now living in Oklahoma, she drove down to the Houston area a few days before the execution. But she's not heading to Huntsville to watch. "We'll probably go to the beach or something," she said. Amber Shore the killer's older daughter hasn't been heard from in years, but her sister deemed it unlikely she'd attend. "The final slap in the face for him would be to pretend that he's not important enough," Tiffany, his youngest daughter, said Monday. "His own children think he's insignificant." For Tiffany, it'll be an almost normal day. Formerly a sheriff's deputy and now in the Air National Guard, the single mother is working her way through college for a second time. She's got a three-year-old to raise and forensic science classes to complete. "Honestly, I have a biology lab and calculus that day. So I'm going to go to school," she said. "Maybe I'll see a movie later if I have free time." The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has doubled the reward for any information that leads to an arrest in the 1982 murder of a 19-year-old college student. For this month only, DPS is offering $6,000 to anyone who has details into the murder of Ruth Elizabeth Bettis, who was found dead in a pasture near Sprinkle Cutoff Road, east of Dessau Road, in Travis County on. Nov. 25, 1982, DPS stated in a news release. She had been sexually assaulted and shot to death. WASHINGTON - When a team of Green Berets in unarmored pickup trucks came under fire in Niger last week, they quickly found themselves in the middle of a nightmare battlefield scenario: outgunned, taking casualties and far from friendly support. The operation, which left four U.S. soldiers dead and two wounded, is now under investigation, Pentagon officials said. That inquiry, senior military officials said, will likely reveal that the American troops had deployed to a hostile area without adequately assessing the risk, and lacked ready access to medical support. Battlefield commanders have called medical aid an ethical obligation. The Defense Department follows a "golden-hour standard," in which the military seeks to whisk wounded U.S. troops from the battlefield within an hour of being wounded to give them access to advanced care and the best chance to save their lives. But in Africa, the time frame for evacuating injured U.S. troops is much longer, and particularly in West Africa, military officials acknowledged this week. The team of roughly a dozen Army Special Forces in Niger was on what officials said a routine reconnaissance mission, and when it was ambushed, no American helicopters came. The French military, based about 275 miles away in neighboring Burkina Faso, scrambled to help. The lack of help called into question whether the U.S. military is providing enough resources for troops undertaking dangerous missions in Africa. The vast remote stretches in which U.S. Special Forces operate are inherently dangerous because of their inaccessibility and are conducive to ambushes, said Brig. Gen. Donald Bolduc, who until June commanded Special Operations forces on the continent. "It's not the end of the earth, but you can see it from there," he said. "It's tough, tough stuff to operate in." Had the U.S. Special Forces been in Iraq or Afghanistan, American or allied aircraft and medical evacuation helicopters would have been minutes away. The Pentagon defended its commitment to the golden hour across the globe. "It is one of the primary considerations for each geographic combatant commander," Lt. Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, the director of the military's Joint Staff, told reporters last week. "Whenever possible, we seek to achieve that goal." But the military's Africa Command asked lawmakers broadly for more help months before the attack in Niger, a nation nearly twice the size of Texas. "Africa lacks a theater distribution network to support our forces," the command said in a statement to the Senate Armed Services Committee in March, noting it has about 1,000 troops operating across a nine-nation region of West Africa. Bolduc said that when he took command more than two years ago, many U.S. troops on the continent were operating in such remote locations that they fell well outside even that expanded time frame for emergency medical evacuation, calling the military's evacuation capabilities at the time "immature." Some troops, however, argue that the golden hour is unrealistic for elite forces deployed far afield and in some cases prevents them from carrying out more risky, but important, missions. "You're never going to have the golden hour in Africa; it's not possible," Bolduc said in a telephone interview. "But you have an acceptable amount of time that commanders have agreed on." For security reasons, he would not disclose the time frame in Africa. The White House announced Monday that US President Donald Trump will travel to China, on November 8 to 11. Chinese President Xi Jinping has invited Trump to visit China during his visit to the US in April. The two leaders are expected to discuss cooperation ranging from commercial to cultural areas, the White House said in a statement. Trump will also travel to Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines and Hawaii from November 3 to 14. The White House added that Trumps visit is intended to underscore his commitment to long-standing US alliances and partnerships, and trying to reaffirm US leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Last summer, 15 people died at the hands of a hot-air balloon pilot flying on a cocktail of medications near Lockhart. The Federal Aviation Administration was warned a tragedy like this could happen, but it did nothing. Read an investigation into the hot air balloon crash and how families are coping. WASHINGTON Twenty-three minutes before the ill-fated "Heart of Texas" hot air balloon left the ground on a hazy July morning in 2016, visibility was reported to be about five miles. Just 11 minutes later, as the sun started to rise over Lockhart, fog was forming and visibility was down to two miles. "Clouds may be a problem," a weather forecaster told pilot Alfred "Skip" Nichols, readying 15 passengers for what was to be an hour-long sightseeing flight over central Texas. "Well, we just fly in between them," Nichols said. "We find a hole and we go." Less than an hour later, at 7:42 a.m., Nichols' Czech-made Balony Kubicek BB85Z, one of the biggest hot air balloons in the industry, struck a high-voltage powerline and plunged into a field. No one was spared in the fiery crash. On Tuesday, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued a scathing final report that not only faulted the pilot, but also the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which exempts commercial balloon operators from medical certificates that are mandatory for other types of pilots. Nichols, 49, a solo operator with a long history of alcohol and drug arrests, reportedly took off under the influence of a veritable cocktail of medications for depression, attention deficit disorder and chronic back pain. One of the medications found in his system oxycodone, a powerful opioid pain medication. The combination of drugs not only impaired his ability to fly, it degraded his ability to judge the worsening conditions and assess his own fitness to fly, investigators concluded. "This pilot should not have been flying, never mind carrying paying passengers," said NTSB Chairman Robert Sumwalt. "The pilot's poor decisions on the day of the accident were his and his alone, but they affected those who flew with him. Other decisions made within government, dating back decades, exempted him from having to hold an FAA medical certificate." The NTSB also faulted the FAA for focusing its safety inspections on large, organized hot air balloon gatherings. Investigators found that the agency only reported an average of 14 inspections a year of smaller, solo hot air balloon operations like Nichols'. "(The FAA) doesn't capture the one-off, small operator," said lead NTSB investigator Bill English, noting that Nichols was neither a member of the Balloon Federation of America, the national ballooning organization, nor a "part of the local clique" of balloon operators between Austin and San Antonio. The NTSB's recommendations, however, already have encountered turbulence from the FAA and industry officials who argue that medical exams for balloon pilots would make little difference, especially in light of Nichols' decision to fly in violation of federal rules prohibiting pilots from flying when they're ill or impaired. The 2,100-member Balloon Federation has proposed a set of voluntary safety guidelines which would leave it up to the industry to police its own commercial flight operators. An FAA spokesman, meanwhile, said the agency will "carefully consider" the NTSB's recommendations. But in testimony during the accident investigation, FAA officials noted that Nichols did not report any of his disqualifying medical conditions to the FAA, as he was supposed to. He also failed to disclose a past drunk driving conviction when he applied for a medical certificate in 1996. Nor did he report a series of subsequent drug and alcohol arrests, one which resulted in the revocation of his driver's license in Missouri. NTSB officials expressed incredulity that FAA policy is to rely on self-reporting by pilots suffering from medical conditions or legal problems that could potentially ground them. Investigators noted that the background checks involved in a medical certification could have picked up Nichols' numerous arrests and convictions, particularly the ones for traffic offenses. Sumwalt also was critical of the FAA's decision to dismiss information the agency received in 2013 about Nichols' alleged drunk driving behavior, in part because too much time had elapsed. While the FAA has made no move to change its policy, Texas Republican Ted Cruz introduced legislation in the U.S. Senate this year that would subject balloon pilots to medical exams much like other pilots, a move that has been applauded by the victims' families. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, an Austin Democrat whose district extends into San Antonio, has a similar measure in the House. "The FAA can say it can be voluntary, but that's not going to change the operators from doing what they want to do," said Patricia Morgan, who attended Tuesday's NTSB hearing as the mother and grandmother of two crash victims. "They need to make it mandatory." Sightseeing pictures and videos taken by Nichols' doomed passengers became part of the NTSB's presentation as exhibits chronicling the worsening cloud conditions that blinded Nichols toward the end of the 44-minute flight. Much of the discussion, however, centered on the FAA's policy. "They deserve to be hit very hard," Morgan said. Safety reforms Dean Carlton, past president of the Balloon Federation, said the industry has proposed its own reforms since the crash in Lockhart. He also argues that the exams needed for FAA medical certification are cumbersome, costly, and unnecessary. "Historically, there have been virtually no accidents specifically tied to medical conditions," Carlton said. "Medical certification, at some level, isn't the best measure of safety." Instead, his group unveiled a voluntary safety program last summer to provide drug, alcohol and other background checks on pilots who want the association's stamp of approval as professional ride providers. "Ride operators who are willing to go the extra mile and provide this information, give us their information, we can provide better information to the public, and that's a much better way to increase the level of safety," Carlton said. "If you're going to be a professional, we expect certain levels of activity." Sumwalt, however, said voluntary industry standards aren't always what they appear to be. "Voluntary compliance is a good thing," Sumwalt said, "if it works.... There has to be teeth behind it." While Sumwalt said he welcomed the Balloon Federation's program, he added, "the devil is in the details. How are they going to enforce that?" Sumwalt was more critical of the FAA for "abdicating" its oversight responsibilities to the industry: "I'm disappointed that the FAA appears to be shirking their responsibility." Sumwalt also noted that given Nichols' record, it's unlikely he would have taken part in the federation's voluntary program. Texas State Rep. John Cyrier, a Republican who lives on a ranch four miles from the crash scene, attended the final NTSB meeting and endorsed the board's unanimous recommendations. He said the Legislature looked for ways to regulate commercial balloon operators in Texas, but that ultimately it falls under the purview of Washington. "There was some possible insurance (regulation) and things like that, but really this is an FAA matter," he said. Despite the critical NTSB report, as well as the possibility of action in Congress, Cyrier said Texas will have to stay involved to press for new FAA rules. "There's no question that it's going to take all of us to push on the FAA to make this happen," Cyrier said. "We need something done at the federal level, because that's where it starts." In the aftermath of the largest mass shooting in modern U.S. history, words like demented, insane, sick and madman peppered official responses, media coverage and public speculation. How else could we explain the tragedy in Las Vegas? But such loaded language obscures a simple fact: The majority of mass shooters do not have a diagnosed mental illness. More of us need to realize that it is wrong to automatically assume that mass shooting and mental illness go hand in hand. The umbrella category of mental illness is often invoked after a mass shooting, particularly when the perpetrator is white. Possible diagnoses are mulled over by the media, hinted at by those who knew the perpetrators, or simply assumed. The problem, however, is that determining an actual diagnosis is far more complex and cannot be done casually from a television studio or living room sofa. This fallback on mental illness, or other disability labels, flies in the face of data about mass shootings. Less than 25 percent of the perpetrators of modern mass shootings have had a diagnosed mental illness. This means that at least 3 out of 4 mass shooters were not mentally ill at least, not on paper. So why does mental illness remain the primary explanation after these tragedies? The answer is easy: It fits our cultural script. Whether fact or fiction, mental illness is central to how we as a society now interpret mass shootings. A diagnosis can bring a sense of logic to the senselessness, whether in daily lives or moments of crisis. It makes symptoms newly intelligible and sometimes offers opportunities to bring the illness under control. Similarly, the assumption that mental illness is a reliable factor in mass shootings helps us as a society create a sense of logic in the face of unspeakable and very public tragedy. We try to understand the situation in order to gain some sense of control, however vague and amorphous. It becomes both an isolated tragedy and one piece of a longer and growing line of similar stories. We attempt to rein it in by giving it a name. The rub, however, is that we are not controlling anything. Our data cannot back up this mistaken belief that mass shooters are mentally ill, and our reliance on this myth helps nothing. We know this in part because the tragedies keep happening. We have seen the images and, for better or for worse, now have unprecedented access to audio and video footage of these events as they unfold. Yet we do not understand any more than in the past. In fact, active shooter incidents have increased significantly since 2000. The assumed, yet unsupported, link between mental illness and mass shootings is perhaps doing more harm than good. The mentally ill mass shooter is far more real in our collective imagination and fears than in real life. Commentators and experts point out the arbitrariness of focusing on mental illness when other factors, notably male gender, are much more strongly correlated with becoming a mass shooter. And yet something about it resonates. As we have seen in recent years, perpetrators of other racial and ethnic backgrounds are far more likely to be discussed in the parlance of terror, with keywords such as radicalization emerging from the start. Yet almost immediately after the shooting in Las Vegas, officials were quick to declare that it was not terrorism. The cultural script of terrorism did not fit not for a white shooter. We as a society remain fixated on medical explanations for everyday life. They give us a sense of trust and comfort. We want a diagnosis to explain difference and, ultimately, horror. But this is shortsighted. The question is not necessarily whether mental illness is a factor, but rather why it continues to be the de facto first step. Mass shootings have become far too normal, in part, because we have allowed them to enter our social worlds. We simply have relied far too long on the scapegoat of mental illness. Elizabeth Lewis is the project manager for the Texas Center for Disability Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. In early 2016, while researching some of the most popular U.S. secession groups online, I stumbled across one of the Russian-controlled Facebook accounts that were then pulling in Americans by the thousands. At the time, I was writing on Russia's relationship with American secessionists from Texas, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. These were people who had hitched flights to Moscow to swap tactics, to offer advice and to find support. They had found succor in the shadow of the Kremlin. That was how I eventually found my way to the "Heart of Texas" Facebook page (and its @itstimetoecede Twitter feed as well). Heart of Texas soon grew into the most popular Texas secession page on Facebook - one that, at one point in 2016, boasted more followers than the official Texas Democrat and Republican Facebook pages combined. By the time Facebook took the page down recently, it had a quarter of a million followers. The page started slowly - just a few posts per week. Unlike other secession sites I'd come across, this one never carried any contact information, never identified any of individuals behind the curtain. Even as it grew, there was nothing to locate it in Texas - or anywhere else, for that matter. It was hard to escape the suspicion that there might be Russian involvement here as well. There were other oddities about the site. Its organizers had a strangely one-dimensional idea of its subject. They seemed to think, for example, that Texans drank Dr Pepper at all hours: while driving their giant trucks, while flying their Confederate battle flags, while griping about Yankees and liberals and vegetarians. But Heart of Texas, sadly, was no joke. At one point the page's organizers even managed to stir up its followers into staging an armed, anti-Islamic protest in Houston. As gradually became clear, this was part of a broader strategy. The sponsors of the page were keen to exacerbate America's own internal divisions. At certain moments they lent support to Black Lives Matter, while in others they would play to the latent (or obvious) racism of Donald Trump's base. By the summer of 2016, other themes began to emerge. Posts began to follow a perceptibly hard-right course, stressing Texas's status as a "Christian state," or touting the Second Amendment as a "symbol of freedom so we would forever be free from any tyranny." Some of the page's contributors talked about the need to "keep Texas Texan," whatever that meant. There was also a generous dollop of conspiracy theory. There were posts about the allegedly unnatural death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia and the supposed federal invasion orders behind the Jade Helm military exercise. Fake Founding Father quotes mingled with anti-Muslim screeds and paeans to Sam Houston. And the number of followers steadily crept into the hundreds of thousands. Though the site's authors understood their audience well, there was something off about their writing. The page's "About" section proclaimed that "Texas's the land protected by Lord (sic)." Grammatical and spelling glitches were everywhere: "In Love With Texas Shape," "State Fair of Texas - Has You Already Visited?," "Always Be Ready for a Texas Size," "No Hypoclintos in the God Blessed Texas." (Or take this caption for a photo of country music star George Strait: "Life is not breaths you take, but the moments that take your breth (sic) away.") Yet the typos never seemed to raise any suspicions in readers' minds. Even the page's calls for an early November protest across the state - part pro-secession, part anti-Clinton - were garbled. One post declared that "we are free citizens of Texas and we've had enough of this cheap show on the screen." The site called on those who showed up to "make photos." Heart of Texas chugged on after the election, bringing in tens of thousands of new followers in 2017 who were unbothered by its mangled English, its rank nativism and its calls to break up the United States. And then, in August, it was gone. Just like that, the most popular Texas secession page on Facebook was revealed to be a Russian front, operated by the notorious Internet Research Agency, with Facebook removing all of the posts from public view. (It's worth noting that another Instagram account started posting Heart of Texas material as soon as the original Facebook page was taken down.) Despite its claims of transparency, Facebook has effectively prevented the public from examining these posts and these pages. So far Heart of Texas remains the only example of a Russian account that I and other researchers managed to study in detail before Facebook pulled the rug out from underneath it. We know that the Russians behind these sites played all of their readers, and especially those who showed up at its protests in places like Twin Falls and Fort Myers and Houston, for fools. Considering that the number of their combined followers ranged into the millions - with some estimates placing total views potentially in the billions - they're probably right. The creators of Heart of Texas not only targeted the sociopolitical tensions within the United Staes. They also exploited our gullibility, which turned out to be far greater than I could have ever imagined. And by assisting them in this massive lie, Facebook has enabled one of the greatest frauds in recent American history. Michel is a journalist based in New York. This op-ed appeared first in the Washington Post. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Zhong Zhi/Getty Images Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Warriors small forward Andre Iguodala has been ruled out of Tuesday nights season opener against Houston with a strained back, the team announced. Iguodala had previously been listed as questionable. After missing Fridays preseason finale against Sacramento, he appeared on the mend, fully participating in practice Monday. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. The long-awaited Intercity Express was meant to mark a new era of train travel across the country. However, its maiden voyage saw a throwback to the age-old complaints - with delays, no available seats, broken aircon and tickets costing 200. The Hitachi 800 was due to leave Bristol Temple Meads for London Paddington at 6am sharp but didn't depart until 6.25am for unspecified 'technical issues' - meaning it arrived 41 minutes late. Passengers were still forced to stand, despite claims that capacity on the new trains was increased by 20 per cent. And one had their laptop damaged as water from the air conditioning poured into one of the carriages. There was further embarrassment when the maiden journey ground to a halt at Taplow, Buckinghamshire, all while Transport Secretary Chris Grayling was on board. The IETs are meant to be faster, but will be running at the same 1 hour 45 mins journey time from Bristol to London for at least another year, while work to electrify the whole route takes place. The air conditioning had to be turned off when it started leaking meaning passengers who paid 204 for a standard return to London were left uncomfortably warm in the unseasonably mild weather. There was further embarrassment when the maiden journey ground to a halt on the tracks at Taplow, Bucks because of an unexpected delay. The train eventually arrived at Paddington at 8.55am after two-and-a-half hours - and more than 40 minutes late. Passenger Craig McCrum, 38, said 'water was pouring out' of the air conditioning system but he was 'not surprised' at the performance of the train because 'GWR is a complete shambles'. He said: 'It's not the best. But I can deal with water pouring down if they can get me to work on time. 'I'm late probably 50% of the week. I get a train that gets me into London 45 minutes earlier than I should be just to allow for delays every day.' Mr McCrum, who commutes from Chippenham, Wiltshire, to his job with a tech start-up company in Moorgate in the City of London, added: 'I pay the best part of 10,000 a year for this. It's pretty poor. 'They always say wait for the new trains, things will improve. They'll never improve.' This afternoon, Hitachi Rail Europe boss Karen Boswell said she was 'very sorry' for the delays and technical issues which led to water seeping into the carriage. In a video message to passengers, Ms Boswell, who was on board the Great Western Railway service with Transport Secretary Chris Grayling and other senior industry figures, said: 'I want to say to passengers that we are really sorry that the first service from Bristol didn't go as planned today. 'I was actually on the train and the delay and water leak meant that it was not the standard of service we expect and are known for.' She explained that 'an air conditioning issue' resulted in water entering the carriage rather than being discharged outside. She said: 'We can and will do better.' The first Hitachi Intercity Express trains, part of a 5.7billion fleet, are coming into service on the London-Bristol line with Great Western Railways. Some 122 of the trains are due to be in service by 2020. The trains have a top speed of 148mph, but only once they reach Maidenhead in Berkshire where the line becomes electrified. This speed will also be limited to 125mph without tracks being upgraded. The delays in rolling out electrification also means that the engines will run on diesel fuel for part of their journeys. Despite today's glitches some commuters said the new trains had 'a nice environment' and said they didn't care what fuel they ran on as long as they were on time. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling, who was on the first service, said: 'These are the smartest trains in the country, probably the best we have ever had in the country. 'This going to be a fantastic service, really regular trains and far more capacity.' The Government has ordered 122 of the Hitachi trains in a 5.7bn deal with the Japanese manufacturers who also make the world-famous bullet trains. The first will run between London and the south-west and more are due to come into service from the capital to Scotland on the East Coast route next year. They are due to run for 27 years compared to the 40-year lifespan of the trains they are replacing. The new trains are designed to travel faster as they accelerate more rapidly and include a digital reservation system telling passengers whether a seat is booked. Carriages also have more plug sockets and Wi-Fi throughout. The fleet will be mostly produced in the UK at Hitachi's plant in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, which opened last year. The company also built the UK's first high speed service, HS1, linking London with Kent on Southeastern. A GWR spokesman said: 'Unfortunately, the train was delayed this morning due to a minor technical matter that was quickly resolved at the depot. 'These trains have been running successfully on UK tracks for over two years and recently passed the industry standard 5,000 miles running without a fault. 'Hitachi will be investigating this matter thoroughly.' Download Image: Web Students and members of the Williamsport and surrounding communities are invited to hear Clive Webb, Ph.D., deliver a presentation on The Holocaust and the African-American Freedom Struggle on Oct. 24 at 4:30 p.m. in Mary Lindsay Welch Honors Hall, on the Lycoming College campus. Internationally recognized, Webbs research analyzes the history of racial violence and conflict in America. The presentation is sponsored by the Lycoming College History Department, and is free and open to the public. The lecture will draw a connection between the domestic struggle for racial reform with broader international forces by examining how the Holocaust helped shape the American civil rights movement. African-Americans drew parallels between Jim Crow and Nazi Germany almost immediately after Adolf Hitler assumed the chancellorship of Germany in 1933. They exposed the hypocrisy of white Americans who condemned the Nazi persecution of Jews while still tolerating violent discrimination against their own nations black population. Once the United States had taken up arms against the forces of fascism, black activists pressed even harder their comparison between Nazism and Jim Crow to warn that the United States was undermining the democratic ideals for which it was supposedly fighting. Following the war, African-Americans continued to evoke the Holocaust as a means to promote racial equality. In the wake of the violence witnessed in Charlottesville, Va., the lecture will serve as a reminder of the need to protect democracy against the forces of extremism not only abroad, but within its own borders. Sarah Silkey, Ph.D., associate professor of history at Lycoming, believes that Webbs lecture will benefit both students and members of the community equally. Racism and white supremacy present challenges to realizing the full potential of our democratic ideals, she stated. African-American activists have been at the forefront of campaigns to combat the problems of racial inequality. Now is the perfect time for our community to begin a dialogue examining this history to better understand contemporary debates about racism and from where those debates originate. Webb is the author of Fight Against Fear: Southern Jews and Black Civil Rights, Massive Resistance: Southern Opposition to the Second Reconstruction, and Rabble Rousers: The American Far Right in the Civil Rights Era. He is co-author of, Forgotten Dead: Mob Violence against Mexicans in the United States, 1848-1928. Currently a professor of modern American history at the University of Sussex in Brighton, England, Webb has been interviewed on several national and international radio stations and television programs, offering historical context and commentary on current events in the United States. The great Gold Rush Music Festival returns to the township of Waihi, with the first nuggets of gold dropping for the highly anticipated return of the 2023 festival. Kochi: The police team investigating the sensational actress assault case on Tuesday prepared the charge sheet against actor Dileep, eight months after a popular actress was abducted and waylaid in Kochi. The charges including conspiracy, gang rape, attempt for abduction, destroying the evidence, charges of threatening and attempt to save the accused were slapped against the actor. Though the police planned to submit the charge sheet today, the absence of magistrate prompted the police team for a change of plan. A supplementary charge sheet including confidential statements, evidences, forensic reports, cyber details and circumstantial evidences were also prepared along with the charge sheet. Interview with Edem Soglo, Founder and CEO of Rigwealth Group Rigwealth Group operates in civil engineering and building services among other sectors. Could you give us an overview of the civil engineering sector in general in Ghana as that is the sector where you founded the mother company? It is no doubt the civil engineering sector is the key to Ghanas development yet little attention has been given to this sector in the sense that the main Ghanaian civil engineering companies have not been given much opportunities to explore their capabilities as the foreigners are getting the best opportunities and that has been of major concern. What should be done? My advice is that it is about time Ghana as a nation and Ghanaians in general trust our artisans. Opportunities must be created to allow civil constructors to optimize their modern skills in the nations socio-economic development. Rigwealth Group is an umbrella for a number of companies. Please describe us briefly your main divisions. Rigwealth Group is an integrated set of companies. Its regular activities fall under the products and services sectors. Currently the group manages Civil Engineering & Finishing services, Energy, Man Guard & Electronic Security solutions, Outsourcing or general goods supply and other SME businesses. Currently we are providing security solutions for the Chinese embassy in Ghana. We also just completed an automatic main entrance door the first green commercial building in West Africa, One Airport Square. Which do you give most priority to at the moment? Where do you see the most opportunity for growth? In the Civil Engineering & Finishing services. What kind of projects are you doing now? Currently we are providing security solutions for the Chinese embassy in Ghana. We also just completed an automatic main entrance door the first green commercial building in West Africa, One Airport Square. Other jobs are in the pipeline that I can tell now for confidentiality sake. Your target for revenue growth is 80-90% growth each year. So what is your medium-term strategy for the group? What vision do you have? Our mid-term plan is to increase our growth by using modern communication platforms and social media. That is something that we have started already. You founded this group yourself, what kind of legacy are you trying to build and leave behind? You mentioned that there are not enough opportunities for civil engineers in Ghana. Yes, well we are still learning. My desire is to have motivated and dedicated workers and to build a strong brand for tomorrow. That is my passion. You have had part of your education in Togo, so is your market just in Ghana or are you also looking at working in other places in the region or anywhere else? We are looking at West Africa in general, concentrated mostly in Ghana. We have already got some opportunities in Togo where we did some works for some key people in the government of Togo. For me, once we gain good ground financially we will start opening our branches in the neighbourhood countries to support them. What are your major challenges? I dont know challenges and I dont have one, what people call challenges are my exams for promotion. So I love those things they call challenges. To mention one, I would say it has to do with collaboration with my foreign suppliers. They want us to make large consignments, but the need sometimes is very small owing to the clients budgets. And so many times it becomes an issue and you have no option but to buy from the local market. We too cant do much stock because the needs vary. Are you looking for any kind of partnership? Yes, for projects funding, all kind of project small and big, short and long period. A standby projects supporter or financier. It is difficult here with the Ghanaian banking environment. The interests are very high for local entrepreneurs. So what you would like is someone who could supply some financial support project by project. Exactly what I am talking about, project by project. What is your vision for Ghana? We aim to make shelter and comfort everyones right in Ghana by providing the best yet affordable Civil Engineering & Finishing services and free consultations. FAIR USE POLICY This material (including media content) may not be published, broadcasted, rewritten, or redistributed. However, linking directly to the page (including the source, i.e. Marcopolis.net) is permitted and encouraged. The Department of Labor's fiduciary standard-unveiled in April 2015-was intended to prevent brokers from selling unnecessary high-fee products. A nice thought! Unless, we guess, you are a variable annuity salesperson. Some predicted these annuities-famously fee-heavy-would take a hit once the rule took effect (it hasn't fully yet). But annuity factories are adapting in anticipation. They're finding ways to keep targeting retirees-for example, by offering new products they expect to better fit the fiduciary standard, though they aren't fundamentally different otherwise. In our view, this is a great example of the issues with the DoL's rule-and a reminder for investors to always do their due diligence on any investment product or service before jumping in. The DoL's fiduciary rule is supposed to protect investors by requiring brokers and advisers working with retirement accounts to act in their clients' best interest; disclose all conflicts of interest in writing and on a dedicated website; and inform clients how they are working to mitigate those conflicts. Most of the rule is on ice until July 2019 while regulators decide how to apply it, but many brokers and insurers are preparing now for its eventual implementation via new annuity offerings for use in IRAs and 401(k)s. There is a basic problem here: Simply, annuity marketing promises funds that grow tax-free until withdrawal, when the assets can be converted into a "guaranteed" stream of income payments. But most retirement accounts already grow tax-free-and that annuity shell will still cost much more than a comparable non-annuity option. Adding another tax shell in your IRA or 401(k) is redundant. The SEC has had warnings on its website for about a decade regarding this practice. Now, you would think this is the sort of thing a well-designed rule mandating brokers act in clients' best interest would prevent. A deferred annuity in an IRA is expensive and may benefit the broker or selling firm more than the client, as there are generally lower-cost, less restrictive ways to generate cash flow. But it's fine under DoL fiduciary standard, as long as the client signs disclosure forms saying they aren't putting the annuity in the IRA for tax deferral purposes. To be fair, this was the requirement before the fiduciary rule, too-but that's sort of our point. If a rule seeking to improve the quality of recommendations retirement investors receive can't even limit this expensive, redundant tactic-one regulators have long discouraged-we can't help but wonder what good it truly does. This isn't the only trouble with the DoL's rule. As our founder, Ken Fisher, discussed a while back in USA Today, the rule has a get-out clause known as the Best Interest Contract Exemption (BICE) that pretty much guts its core aims. Brokers can keep pushing products like always as long as the client signs on the dotted line. So, with that in mind, the DoL rule and BICE effectively mean the US has three (or four!) different standards of care in the financial advice industry. There is the SEC's fiduciary standard, which Registered Investments Advisers (including Fisher Investments) are held to. There is the suitability standard that brokers have traditionally operated under. The DoL rule adds two more, a watered-down fiduciary rule for retirement accounts and an even more watered-down version under BICE. One client dealing with one financial professional may have accounts held to all four. Confusing! Plus, a lot of this stuff is subjective. We happen to think deferred annuities are really bad options for the vast majority of investors, but we're well aware others disagree. It doesn't take much rationalization to comply with the letter of the law. Likewise, well-intentioned advisers doing what they think is best for their clients still make mistakes. A broker or adviser could have all the scruples in the world and still make awful recommendations out of sheer ineptitude, or they might not have adequate resources to properly serve clients. This is why, whether or not the DoL's rule ultimately takes effect, the onus remains on investors to do their due diligence-not just about regulatory standards, but about the values and resources the financial professional uses to uphold those standards and put clients first. Plenty of honorable professionals work in this industry, regardless of the standard of care. To know whether you're talking to one requires digging deeper. Get to know your adviser's investment philosophy, process, expertise, values, resources, history, conflicts of interest, compensation structure and costs (including hidden) on various products and services. Time-consuming? Maybe. Important? Absolutely. As for what the future holds, the DoL's rule isn't the only game in town. 2010's Dodd-Frank ordered the SEC to ponder a uniform fiduciary standard for all brokers and advisers, and the agency is reportedly taking up the issue again. It's impossible to know today how it'll shake out, but it would be great if investors had the simpler, clearer-cut standards they did for much of the 20th century. One of the biggest benefits of the Investment Adviser's Act of 1940-which established the original fiduciary standard-is the line it drew between investment sales (brokers) and service (advisers). It didn't fully eradicate charlatans from this industry,[i] as Bernie Madoff and others show, but it did give investors a clear view of what they were paying for (transactions or advice/service) and which side of the table their guy was on. However, as investors flocked to advisers, the brokerage industry tried to compete by recasting itself as the realm of "financial advisors,"[ii] with nothing preventing brokers from "recommending" products that paid them a handsome commission. Hence our main beef with the DoL's rule: In our view, it blurs the line between sales and service even further-rather than redrawing it-while adding paperwork. If the SEC redraws the line and makes it easier to discern sales from service, we think investors big and small would be better off. Clients who opt for financial advisers would still need to weigh their options in that arena and find the right one for them, but having clear rules would help them narrow that funnel considerably. [i] Nothing will. And that is true of every industry everywhere. [ii] Subtle, huh? MARTINSVILLE Its not official yet, but Patrick Henry Community College (PHCC) is going to be reaccredited for another 10 years. At a meeting of PHCCs board Monday afternoon, college officials announced that everything went extremely well during a recent reaffirmation visit by representatives of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges. Therefore, the college expects to receive its notice of reaccreditation within a couple of weeks, said Greg Hodges, vice president of academic and student success services. Commission representatives were very complimentary of all of PHCCs operations they observed, said board Chairwoman Becky Lovell. PHCC received glowing comments, said President Angeline Godwin. She said that she received a personal handwritten note from the commission concerning how well the reaccreditation visit went. SACS is one of six regional accreditation organizations nationwide recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Its Commission on Colleges considers accreditation for degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southeast for the quality and effectiveness of the education they provide. Godwin said SACS is regarded to have the most rigorous standards among the six accrediting bodies. Accreditation is the lifeblood of the college, Godwin said. We do not take it for granted. A college or university must be accredited in order for students to take advantage of federal financial aid, she said. About 80 percent of PHCCs students receive such aid, she pointed out. So, basically, our accreditation is the key to our existence, Godwin emphasized. When colleges and universities are accredited, they cannot rest on their laurels. They still must develop five-year plans for improvement, according to Hodges. PHCCs plan will focus on providing students employable skills. No matter what type of degree or educational credential that a student seeks to obtain, the persons ultimate goal is to become employed, Hodges and Godwin said. Confused over NCI problems Ive reached that stage in life where faces, names, words, and even facts play hide and seek in my brain. Some of you know what Im talking about. I have an eye condition that makes it difficult to read. So I read less. Considering this, it probably should not be surprising that I routinely find myself confused. The latest evidence is the New College Institute. A little over a decade ago, it was conceived as a way to help invigorate the uptown economy. The idea was to create jobs in the uptown area. That idea seems to have gotten lost along the way. Im not saying that what we have is bad, but my aged, feeble mind does not recognize it as what was originally envisioned. Maybe its just me. Now I hear of the possibility that NCI will move out of its two-year-old building to cheaper accommodations at the behest of the state taking its jobs with it. The NCI Foundation called in retired Sen. Wampler to move NCI along, paying him more than the president of the United States. For their troubles, they got a brand new $18 million building and a school with no direction. Left floundering with an unfocused future, NCI was unable to attract a new director. In steps active Sen. Bill Stanley, best known to this author as the man who promised I-73 and delivered a meeting. He now leads the NCI Board of Directors. He is a member of the Republican Party which controls the Commonwealths (word irony here) legislature. This legislature set up conditions that could result in moving NCI. Possibly out of the city. Possibly out of the county. The foundation, set up to support the school, paid Wampler a good deal of money for what he left us with. The current foundation has literally stopped supporting NCI and is now only connected by the rent money it receives from the school. It maintains the building and rents it out for events. It is a mere building manager. It has refused the states offer to buy the building, although that would leave the foundation with over $7 million to support the college, should they ever deem it fit to do so. The foundation might as well subcontract building management to the city and rid itself of the drain of an executive director. The city states that it will move to obtain title to the property if NCI moves. I have to wonder what they will do with it, especially including those expensive, special purpose machines. I once opined that the field house originally planned for the Baldwin Block would end up a money sucking white elephant. We might get that anyway. Youll have to tell me if I have reason to be confused. I cant make sense of any of this. Im sorry I cant be more positive. Im trying to work on that.If you dont know where youre going, youll never get there. Vince Stone Martinsville A case of deja vu Deja Vu is an expression from the French language meaning already seen. That's the only way to describe the upcoming November 7 election for Martinsville's Commonwealth Attorney, as it is the same two contenders from four years ago. Over the past four years, the sitting Martinsville contender has established an excellent record in association with the city police department in reducing crime in the city. The Danville contender is a former Martinsville Commonwealth Attorney who now serves as an Assistant Commonwealth Attorney. This Danville contender said crime in her city is out of control and ironically wants to come back to Martinsville to become the top prosecutor. The Danville contender publicly stated that she can take credit for the Martinsville contender's success because she trained him. So now she wants to take his job and leave the city of Danville, where, based on her own statements, her skills are most needed. Prosecutors don't convict criminals, the rule of law convicts criminals. Both candidates are commonwealth attorneys and they serve the public some 30 miles from each other. Crime sees no borders. Now, like four years ago, it will be up to the voters to make the choice. Is a debate between the two contenders really necessary? Not really, because there are enough Law and Order episodes on television. Both contenders can best serve the cities of Martinsville and Danville by staying in the positions that they now occupy. But can the voters realize this? Lawrence Mitchell Martinsville Looking forward to change With the upcoming November election, I am looking forward to seeing change in the board of supervisors. The board has became "stagnant" they vote in favor of everything the county administrator wants done instead of the "taxpayer. Almost every taxpayer I spoke to was not in favor of the new decal that we are required to put on our vehicles for using the trash service centers, but that didn't seem to matter, The board and the county administrator had already made up their mind without even asking the taxpayers. In my opinion, the current board of supervisors have had the county for so long, they've run out of energy, run out of ideas and run out of direction. It's time for a change! Andrew Palmer Collinsville PYONGYANG, Oct. 17-- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Tuesday slammed the United States for sending aircraft carriers and strategic bombers to the Korean Peninsula as the "last-ditch efforts of the U.S. driven to the tight corner" by Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs. The U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carriers Ronald Reagan and Theodore Roosevelt, nuclear submarines Tucson and Michigan and B-1B strategic bombers are heading toward South Korea and its vicinity for planned war games. "It is (U.S. President Donald) Trump's wicked intention to check the DPRK's strategic measures for rounding off the state nuclear force by making a fuss about something serious happening and aggravate tension to the maximum," the official Korean Central News Agency said in a commentary. The United States and South Korea on Monday kicked off a large-scale naval joint drills off the waters of the Korean Peninsula with the participation of a nuclear strike group, a nuclear submarine and tens of thousands of troops from both sides. In Defence of Marxism is committed to safeguarding your privacy. At all times we aim to respect any personal data you share with us, or that we receive from other organisations, and keep it safe. This Privacy Policy (Policy) sets out our data collection and processing practices and your options regarding the ways in which your personal information is used. This Policy contains important information about your personal rights to privacy. Please read it carefully to understand how we use your personal data. We may update this Policy from time to time without notice to you, so please check it regularly. The provision of your personal data to us is voluntary. 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Please let us know if you have any queries or concerns whatsoever about the way in which your data is being processed by emailing the Data Protection Manager at webmaster@marxist.com Re-visiting the question of the United States of Europe in the wake of the war and the creation of the Soviet Union, Trotsky once again put forward the slogan of a United States of Europe in his 1923 article, "Is the Time Ripe for the Slogan: The United States of Europe" published in Pravda. Again, Trotsky emphasises the revolutionary significance of the demand for the democratic unification of Europe but this time with an even clearer class content, asserting that the demand for a United States of Europe cannot be isolated from the demand for a Workers Government. The United States Of Europe The motor force driving to war was this, that the capitalist forces of production had outgrown the framework of European national states. Germany had set herself the task of organizing Europe, i.e., of uniting economically the European continent under her own control, in order then seriously to set about contending with Britain for world power. Frances aim was to dismember Germany. The small population of France, her predominantly agricultural character and her economic conservatism, make it impossible for the French bourgeoisie even to consider the problem of organising Europe, which indeed proved to be beyond the powers of German capitalism, backed though it was by the military machine of the Hohenzollerns. Victorious France is now maintaining her mastery only by Balkanising Europe. Great Britain is inciting and backing the French policy of dismembering and exhausting Europe, all the time concealing her work. In connection with the slogan of A Workers, and Peasants Government, the time is appropriate, in my opinion, for issuing the slogan of The United States of Europe. Only by coupling these two slogans shall we get a definite systematic and progressive response to the most burning problems of European development. The last imperialist war was at bottom a European war. The episodic participation of America and Japan did not alter its European character. Having secured what she required, America withdrew her hands from the European bonfire and returned home. Britains traditional mask of hypocrisy. As a result, our unfortunate continent is cut up, divided, exhausted, disorganised and Balkanised transformed into a madhouse. The invasion of the Ruhr is a piece of violent insanity accompanied by far-sighted calculation (the final ruination of Germany), a combination not unfamiliar to psychiatrists. At bottom of the war lay the need of the productive forces for a broader arena of development, unhampered by tariff walls. Similarly, in the occupation of the Ruhr so fatal to Europe and to mankind, we find a distorted expression of the need for uniting the coal of the Ruhr with the iron of Lorraine. Europe cannot develop economically within the state and customs frontiers imposed at Versailles. Europe is compelled either to remove these frontiers, or to face the threat of complete economic decay. But the methods adopted by the ruling bourgeoisie to overcome the frontiers it itself had created are only increasing the existing chaos and accelerating the disintegration. To the toiling masses of Europe it is becoming ever clearer that the bourgeoisie is incapable of solving the basic problems of restoring Europes economic life. The slogan: A Workers, and Peasants, Government is designed to meet the growing attempts of the workers to find a way out by, their own efforts. It has now become necessary to point out this avenue of salvation more concretely, namely, to assert that only in the closest economic co-operation of the peoples of Europe lies the avenue of salvation for our continent from economic decay and from enslavement to mighty American capitalism. Americas standing aloof from Europe, tranquilly biding her time until Europes economic agony has reached such a pitch as will make it easy to step in and buy up Europe as Austria was bought up for a mere pittance. But France cannot stand aloof from Germany, nor can Germany stand aloof from France. Therein lies the crux, and therein lies the solution, of the European problem. Everything else is incidental. Long before the imperialist war we recognised that the Balkan states are incapable of existing and of developing except within a federation. The same is true of the various fragments of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and of the western portions of tsarist Russia now living outside the Soviet Union. The Apennines, the Pyrenees and Scandinavia are limbs of the European body stretching out toward the seas. They are incapable of an independent existence. The European continent in the present state of development of its productive forces is an economic unit not a shut-in unit, of course, but one possessing profound internal ties as was proved in the terrible catastrophe of the world war, and again revealed by the mad paroxysm of the Ruhr occupation. Europe is not a geographical term; Europe is an economic term, something incomparably more concrete especially in the present post-war conditions than the world market. Just as federation was long ago recognised as essential for the Balkan peninsula, so now the time has arrived for stating definitely and clearly that federation is essential for Balkanised Europe. There remain to be considered the question of the Soviet Union, on the one hand, and that of Great Britain, on the other. It goes without saying that the Soviet Union will not be opposed either to the federative union of Europe, or to its own adhesion to such a federation. Thereby, too, a reliable bridge will be secured between Europe and Asia. The question of Great Britain is far more conditional; it depends on the tempo at which her revolutionary development proceeds. Should the Government of Workers and Peasants triumph on the European mainland before British imperialism is overthrown which is quite probable then the European Federation of Workers and Peasants will of necessity be directed against British capitalism. And, naturally, the moment British capitalism is overthrown the British Isles will enter as a welcome member into the European Federation. It might be asked: Why a European Federation and not a World Federation? But this manner of posing the question is much too abstract. Of course, the world economic and political development tends to gravitate toward a unified world economy, with its degree of centralisation dependent upon the existing technological level. But we are now concerned not with the future socialist economy of the world, but with finding a way out of the present European impasse. We have to offer a solution to the workers and peasants of torn and ruined Europe, quite independently of how the revolution develops in America, Australia, Asia or Africa. Looked at from this point of view, the slogan of The United States of Europe has its place on the same historical plane with the slogan A Workers, and Peasants Government; it is a transitional slogan, indicating a way out, a prospect of salvation, and furnishing at the same time a revolutionary impulse for the future. It would be a mistake to measure the entire process of the world revolution with the same footrule. America came out of the war not enfeebled, but strengthened. The internal stability of the American bourgeoisie is still quite considerable. The American bourgeoisie is reducing its dependence upon the European market to a minimum. The revolution in America considered apart from Europe may thus be a matter of decades. Does that mean that the European revolution must align itself with the American revolutions? Certainly not. If backward Russia did not (and could not) await the revolution in Europe, all the less can and will Europe await the revolution in America. Workers, and Peasants Europe, blockaded by capitalist America (and at first, perhaps even by Great Britain), will be able to maintain itself and develop as a closely consolidated military and economic union. It must not be overlooked that the very danger arising from the United States of America (which is spurring the destruction of Europe, and is ready to step in subsequently as Europes master) furnishes a very substantial bond for uniting the peoples of Europe who are ruining one another into a European United States of Workers and Peasants. This opposition between Europe and the United States stems organically from the differences in the objective situations of the European countries and of the mighty transatlantic republic, and is not in any way directed against the international solidarity of the proletariat, or against the interests of the revolution in America. One of the reasons for the retarded development of the revolution throughout the world is the degrading European dependence on the rich American uncle (Wilsonism, the charitable feeding of the worst famine districts of Europe, American loans, etc., etc.). The sooner the popular masses of Europe regain the confidence in their own strength which was sapped by the war, and the more closely they rally around the slogan of United Workers, and Peasants, Republics of Europe, the more rapidly will the revolution develop on both sides of the Atlantic. For just as the triumph of the proletariat in Russia gave a mighty impetus to the development of the Communist parties of Europe so, and even to an incomparably greater degree, will the triumph of the revolution in Europe give an impetus to the revolution in America and in all parts of the world. Although, when we abstract ourselves from Europe, we are obliged to peer into the mists of decades to perceive the American revolution, yet we may safely assert that by the natural sequence of historical events the triumphant revolution in Europe will serve in a very few years to shatter the power of the American bourgeoisie. Not merely the question of the Ruhr, i.e., of European fuel and iron, but also the question of reparations fits into the pattern of The United States of Europe. The question of reparations is a purely European question, and it can and will be solved in the period immediately ahead only by European means. The Europe of Workers and Peasants will have its own reparations budget as it will have its own war budget so long as it is menaced by dangers from without. This budget will be based upon a graduated income tax, upon levies on capital, upon the confiscation of wealth plundered during wartime, etc. Its allotments will be regulated by the appropriate bodies of the European Federation of Workers and Peasants. We shall not here indulge in speculations as to the speed at which the unification of the European republics will proceed, in what economic and constitutional forms it will express itself, and what degree of centralisation will be obtained in the first period of the workers, and peasants, regime. All these considerations we may safely leave to the future, remembering the experience already gained by the Soviet Union, constructed on the soil of former Tsarist Russia. What is perfectly obvious is that the customs barriers must be thrown down. The peoples of Europe must regard Europe as a field for a unified and increasingly planned economic life. It might be argued that we are in reality speaking of a European Socialist Federation as an integral part of the future World Federation, and that such a regime can be brought about only by the dictatorship of the proletariat. We shall not, however, pause to answer this argument, since it has been refuted by the international analysis made during the consideration of the question of a Workers, Government. The United States of Europe, is a slogan in every respect corresponding with the slogan A Workers, (or Workers, and Peasants, Government. Is the realisation of a Workers, Government, possible without the dictatorship of the proletariat? Only a conditional reply can be given to this question. In any case, we regard the Workers, Government, as a stage toward the dictatorship of the proletariat. Therein lies the great value of this slogan for us. But the slogan The United States of Europe, has an exactly similar and parallel significance. Without this supplementary slogan the fundamental problems of Europe must remain suspended in mid-air. But will not this slogan play into the hands of the pacifists? I do not believe that there exists such lefts nowadays as would consider this danger sufficient grounds for rejecting the slogan. After all, we are living in 1923, and have learned a little from the past. There are the same reasons, or absence of reasons, for fearing a pacifist interpretation of The United States of Europe as there are for fearing a democratic-SR-ist interpretation of the slogan A Workers, and Peasants, Government. Of course, if we advance The United States of Europe, as an independent programme, as a panacea for achieving pacification and reconstruction, and if we isolate this slogan from slogans of A Workers, Government, of the united front, and from the class struggle, we shall certainly end in democratised Wilsonism, i.e., in Kautskyism, and even in something more degrading (assuming there is anything more degrading than Kautskyism). But I repeat, we live in the year 1923 and have learned a little from the past. The Communist International is now a reality, and it will not be Kautsky, who will initiate and control the struggle associated with our slogans. Our method of posing the problem is diametrically opposed to Kautsky,s method. Pacifism is an academic programme, whose object is to avoid the necessity of revolutionary action. Our formulation, on the contrary, is an incentive to struggle. To the workers of Germany, not the Communists (it is not necessary to convince them), but to the workers in general, and in the first place to the Social-Democratic workers, who fear the economic consequences of a fight for a workers, government; to the workers of France, whose minds ire still obsessed by the questions of reparations and of the national debt; to the workers of Germany, France and of all Europe, who fear lest the establishment of the workers, regime lead to the isolation and economic ruin of their countries, we say: Even if temporarily isolated (and with such a great bridge to the East as the Soviet Union, Europe will not be easily isolated), Europe will be able not only to maintain herself, but to consolidate and build herself up, once she has broken down the customs barriers and his united herself economically to the inexhaustible natural riches of Russia. The United States of Europe a purely revolutionary perspective is the next stage in our generally revolutionary perspective. It arises from the profound difference in the situations of Europe and America. Whoever ignores this difference, will willy-nilly, drown the true revolutionary perspective in mere historical abstractions. Naturally, the Workers, and Peasants, Federation will not stop in its European phase. As we have said, our Soviet Union affords Europe an outlet into Asia, and from Asia into Europe. We are therefore, here envisaging only a stage, but a stage of great historical importance, through which we must first pass. ADS ADS He established his company in 1995, setting the benchmark very high by insisting that the companys entire production be certified in accordance with the strict requirements of the Poincon de Geneve, or Geneva Hallmark. After ten years running the brand, Roger Dubuis left to continue his passion for watchmaking, only to return in 2011 as an official brand ambassador. In the meantime, the Richemont Group had acquired a 60% controlling interest in the company, which would continue to develop by following the disruptive philosophy of its founder. The links between Mr Roger Dubuis and the brand he created are indelible. A special flying tourbillon model was created in tribute to him in 2014 and, on a recent visit to the company headquarters in Meyrin, its current CEO Jean-Marc Pontroue pointed out the ever-present watchful eye of Mr Dubuis in the form of a huge portrait photo watching over activities at the company. It was only in 2016 that Richemont took over Roger Dubuis completely, acquiring the remaining 40% of the company from Akram Aljord, CEO of the independent Swiss watch brand Hysek. The acquisition gave the company a solid foundation to continue in the spirit of its founder, who will be sorely missed by the industry. The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb slammed on Tuesday what he described as calls for allowing homosexuality as a human right, Al-Ahram Arabic news website reported. The calls to allow homosexuality as a human right are blatant and are completely strange to eastern men who are naturally disgusted with such deviance," El-Tayeb said. In September, images were shared on social media showing fans of Lebanese rock bank Mashrou Laila raising the LBGT rainbow flag during a concert by the band in Cairo, causing widespread controversy in Egypt. Following the incident, at least 50 alleged homosexuals were arrested in the country. Though Egyptian law does not explicitly criminalise homosexuality, people accused of homosexuality have been convicted on charges such as debauchery and violating public morals. El-Tayeb made the comments during a speech at the third Dar El-Ifta international conference in Cairo, which is held under the auspices of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, with 63 countries participating. The theme of the three-day conference for 2017 is the "The role of Ifta [religious edicts] in the stability of society." The head of Al-Azhar also slammed calls for gender equality in inheritance and allowing non-Muslim men to marry Muslim women. El-Tayeb also criticised the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which Egypt signed in 1980 without adhering to some of the articles that do not comply with Islamic law, including those on inheritance. According to Sunni Islamic law, a daughter inherits half that of a son. There are some instances, however, where females can inherit more than other male relatives who are part of her extended family. Islamic law also prohibits homosexuality as well as marriage between Muslim women and non-Muslim men. In August, Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi announced that his country is looking to allow equal inheritance for men and women as well as marriage between non-Muslim men and Muslim women, which drew sharp criticism from Al-Azhar. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi received the head of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) Ronald Lauder in Cairo on Tuesday, presidential spokesman Alaa Youssef said in a statement. The meeting reflects Egypts keenness to communicate with all sectors of American society in order to improve understanding of the challenges the region is currently facing, according to the spokesman. The meeting was also attended by Egypt's Intelligence Chief Khaled Fawzi and the WJC advisor for Middle East Affairs Thaer Mukbel. President El-Sisi stressed the strong and strategic ties binding Egypt and the United States, assuring more cooperation at all levels during the coming period. The meeting also covered current efforts at resuming Middle East peace talks, as well as Palestinian reconciliation efforts. Lauder expressed his appreciation for Egypt's role in maintaining stability and peace in the Middle East and its efforts to combat terrorism. He also praised the positive signs of revival in the Egyptian economy, as well as Egypt's keenness to strengthen the values of citizenship and mutual co-existence. The US-based World Jewish Congress was founded in August 1936 as an international federation of Jewish communities and organisations. Search Keywords: Short link: While we may hear about ways of constructing new buildings to make them earthquake-resistant, what about all the buildings that are standing already? Well, thats where a new concrete developed at Canadas University of British Columbia (UBC) comes in. Sprayed onto existing walls, it reportedly allows them to withstand tremors that would otherwise reduce them to rubble. Ben Coxworth Full Story: https://newatlas.com/edcc-earthquake-resistant-concrete/51754/?utm_source=Gizmag+Subscribers&utm_campaign=727fbf4f2c-UA-2235360-4&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_65b67362bd-727fbf4f2c-92465361 With leadership by four-term Idaho Sen. Frank Church, the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act was passed in 1968 and established Americas premier program for safeguarding free-flowing waterways. Now, as the 50th anniversary of this legislation approaches, its a good time to reflect on what has been gained. By the 1960s, 70,000 dams had been built on virtually every major river in 48 states, and more dams were proposed to flood hundreds more valleys and canyons. Inspired by Idahos Salmon and Snake rivers, and alarmed by the threats of dam proposals on them, the preeminent wildlife biologists of the day, John and Frank Craighead, conceived a program to set aside the best remaining streams. Sen. Church honed their idea into legislation. Passing unanimously in the Senate and by 265-7 in the House back in a sensible age of bipartisanship, the measure banned new dams for designated rivers and directed agencies to safeguard river values where the land is federally owned. BY TIM PALMER AND LUVERNE GRUSSING http://www.idahostatesman.com/opinion/readers-opinion/article178971136.html Solar Roadways http://www.solarroadways.com/ is working to create a future where we can all jump in an EV and take a road trip, charging on clean sunshine and never having to stop to find charging stations. Dynamic Electric Vehicle Charging News: We have just returned from a trip to Logan, Utah, where we had another meeting with the folks at The Center for Sustainable Electrified Transportation (SELECT) at Utah State University. SELECT is a multi-university industry funded research center led by USU. We were so excited to finally view their electric vehicle and roadway research facility and test track, where they are working on dynamic wireless power transfer for electric vehicles. We discussed options for mutually beneficial collaboration to create dynamic charging for Solar Roadways applications, including driveways, parking lots and roadways. Were also looking into setting up a test area for our panels on their test track. Looking forward to continuing the conversation with these innovative folks to provide way of deploying our technologies together. http://www.solarroadways.com/ With a market capitalization of close to $9 billion and more than 170 equity listings, the Stock Exchange of Mauritius (SEM) is one of the most vibrant in Africa. It is also where many of Mauritius ultra-high net-worth individuals store significant portions of their fortunes through equity stakes in their own and other companies, which they typically hold via both direct and indirect investments. Based on figures derived from investment agencies, the latest annual reports and confirmations from capital market registrars, these are the 15 richest people who own stocks listed on the Stock Exchange of Mauritius. Billionaires.Africa lists individuals rather than multigenerational families who share large fortunes, but in cases where ownership breakdown among siblings and couples arent clear, we attribute the fortune to the most visible-prominent member of the family. The value of their shares is based on prices at the end of trading on Aug. 20, and valuations are converted to U.S. dollars at current exchange rates #1 Arnaud Lagesse & family Net worth on SEM: $130.4 million Holdings: Ireland Blyth Limited (IBL) Arnaud Lagesse is the CEO of Ireland Blyth Limited (IBL Group), a family-controlled business that has been in existence for close to two centuries. IBL is Mauritius largest conglomerate with more than $900 million in annual revenues. Through its subsidiaries, it engages in the agro and energy, building and engineering, commercial and distribution, financial, hospitality, life and technologies, logistics, seafood, and properties businesses. Lagesse and his brothers Benoit, Hugues, Jean-Pierre, Thierry and Stephane own a joint ownership stake of 16.81 percent of the groups total issued ordinary shares. The stake is worth $130.4 million. #2 Desmond de Beer Net worth on SEM: $80.04 million Holdings: Lighthouse Capital Property tycoon Desmond de Beer was a founder of Resilient REIT Limited, a South African Real Estate Investment Trust, where he has served as CEO since listing in 2002. He was also a founder of New Europe Property Investments Plc and its successor NEPI Rockcastle Plc. He is the largest individual shareholder of Lighthouse Capital Limited, a company that invests globally in direct property in developed and developing markets, as well as listed real estate and infrastructure securities. He owns a 13.71-percent stake in Lighthouse Capital a stake that is worth $80,044,840 #3 Barry Stuhler Net worth on SEM: $36.7 million Holdings: Lighthouse Capital South African-born Barry Stuhler is a chartered accountant who a 6.29-percent stake in Lighthouse Capital worth $36,726,456. He is the managing director at Capital Property Fund in South Africa. #4 Norbert Dentressangle Net worth on SEM: $24,227,818 Holdings: CIEL, Sun Mauritius French billionaire Norbert Dentressangle, who built his fortune in transport and logistics, owns a 5.11-percent stake in CIEL worth $11.983 million as well as a 17.32-percent stake in Sun Mauritius worth $12.24 million. #5 Chian Ah Teck Net worth on SEM: $23,678,632 Holdings: Gamma Civic, Lottotech Chian Tat Ah Teck is the executive chairman of Gamma Civic. He was previously managing director of the company from 1987 to January 2011. Gamma Civic is an investment holding. It operates in the following sectors: building materials, contracting, investments, lottery and corporate services. Chian Ah Teck owns a 6.93-percent stake in Gamma Civic worth $9,253,664.45 and also owns a 19.6-percent stake in Lottotech worth $14,424,968. #6 Dominic Galea Net worth on SEM: $22,827,748 Holdings: Mauritius Union Assurance Company, United Docks Dominique Galea is chairman at Mauritius Union Assurance Company where he owns a 15.75-percent stake worth $21.1 million. He also owns 6.6 percent of United Docks, a leading real estate developer that owns around 100,000 square meters of prime freehold land in Port-Louis. #7 Louis Boulle Net worth on SEM: $18.4 million Holdings: Ireland Blyth Limited (IBL Group) Louis Gaetan-Jan-Fredrik Boulle is a prominent boardroom guru who serves on dozens of corporate boards in Mauritius. He is the chairman of Ireland Blyth Limited (IBL Group), where he owns a 2.33-percent stake worth $18.33 million. He also owns 0.05 percent in Lux Island resorts worth $58,925.53 #8 P. Arnaud Dalais Net worth on SEM: $18.6 million Holdings: Ciel Group The Mauritian businessman is non-executive chairman of Ciel Group, one of the island nations largest business conglomerates. He owns an 8.02-percent stake in CIEL. #9 Jean-Pierre Dalais Net worth on SEM: $11.9 million Holdings: Ciel Group A member of the Dalais family, the controlling shareholders of the Ciel Group, Jean-Pierre Dalais owns a 5.46-percent stake in the company worth $11.9 million. #10 Pierre De Speville Net worth on SEM: $14,927,013 Holdings: Pierre De Speville holds a 12.83-percent stake in Medine, a Mauritian conglomerate with interests in agro, leisure, property, and education. #11 Pierre-Emile Latour Net worth on SEM: $14,594,674 Holdings: Pierre-Emile Latour holds a 10.89-percent shareholding in Mauritius Union Assurance Company, worth $14,594,674.03 #12 Timothy Taylor Net worth on SEM: $12,164,585 Holdings: Timothy Taylor holds a 9.27-percent stake in Cim Financial Services, a non-banking deposit-taking institution that avails individual consumers, SMEs and large corporates with financial services such as consumer finance, credit cards, forex, leasing and factoring. #13 Vincent Ah-Chuen Net worth on SEM: $6,698,653 Holdings: Vincent Ah-Chuen holds a 16.41-percent stake in ABC Motors, a Mauritian company that markets, distributes and repairs automobiles; a 1.13-percent stake in Mauritius Union Assurance Company and a 25.04-percent stake in P.O.L.I.C.Y Limited, an investment company in Mauritius. #14 Cyril How Kin Sang Net worth on SEM: $9,284,305 Holdings: Cyril How Kin Sang holds a 6.94-percent stake in Gamma Civic, an investment holding company. #15 Pierre-Guy Noel Net worth on SEM: $9,062,745 Holdings: Pierre-Guy Noel is the CEO of MCB, one of Mauritius largest banking groups. He owns a 0.55-percent stake in the company. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires The UK launched on Sunday training workshops in Egypt with the aim of bolstering Egyptian prosecutors' ability to prosecute human trafficking, the UK Embassy in Cairo said on Tuesday. The workshops "will build the capacity of criminal justice authorities in Egypt to effectively prevent, investigate, prosecute and adjudicate cases of migrant smuggling and trafficking in persons." The programme was launched at a ceremony attended by the deputy head of the UK mission in Egypt Helen Winterton and the prosecutor-generals director of the International Cooperation and Human Rights Division Kamel Samir. The UK-funded training programme is in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), represented through the Regional Representative for MENA Cristina Albertin. Last year, an estimated 5,000 people died trying to cross the Mediterranean in boats. The UK commends the strong action taken by the Egyptian government to implement new anti-smuggling legislation and prevent departures from the north coast," Winterton said. Winterton added that the UK will provide Egypt with EGP 75.9 million for a range of projects, including UNODC workshops, to assist the country in implementing its new anti-smuggling strategy and law. In February, the UK announced the Preventing and Responding to Illegal/Irregular Migration in Egypt (PRIME) project funded by the UK government, with EGP 33 million allocated to help curb the phenomenon. Cairo has increasingly prioritised tackling the migration crisis since a migrant boat sank of the Mediterranean cost in September 2016, killing hundreds. Egypt has since passed a law stiffening punishments against those involved in human trafficking. Egypt, a hotspot for migrants of different nationalities looking to cross the Mediterranean for Europe, has been aiming to increase cooperation with several European nations to combat human trafficking. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's education ministry has increased fees for public schools this school year across all formal education stages by 40 to 45 percent, or EGP 20 to 30, the ministry announced on its official website on Monday. Fees for the kindergarten stage have been increased from EGP 45 to 65; for primary schools they have been raised from EGP 60 to 85; from EGP 65 to 90 for preparatory schools; and from EGP 85 to 115 for secondary schools. Fees for technical schools have been increased from EGP 75 to 105. The ministry said that the increase in fees is the result of an increase in medical insurance for public school students. The fees can be paid in two installments, one during the first term by the end of October and another in the second term. The ministry also announced that some students will be exempted from school fees entirely, including the children of those who died during the 2011 revolution; the children of members of the Armed Forces, police and judiciary; the children of those who died in terrorist attacks; children from families who receive social solidarity pensions; the children of sole female breadwinners; and the children of special needs people. The exemptions would be determined following a social survey. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's prosecutor-general has referred on Tuesday to Cairo criminal court a man charged with killing a Coptic priest and injuring another in Cairo last week, state news agency MENA reported. The prosecution charged forty-year-old Ahmed El-Sonbaty with premeditated murder in the killing of Arc Priest Samaan Shehataa, who hailed from Beni Suef Governorate in Upper Egypt, in El-Salam City east pf Cairo last Thursday. Another priest was injured in the attack. The interior ministry has not commented on a possible motive behind the attack. Evidence against the defendant includes a confession, witness statements, and forensic evidence, according to MENA. Search Keywords: Short link: Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi discussed in a phone call with Jordan's King Abdullah II on Tuesday boosting cooperation between the two countries, El-Sisi's office said in a statement. The presidency said that the two leaders affirmed the depth of the strategic and historical relations between the two countries and their keenness to push forward cooperation on all levels. They also discussed a number of regional issues as well as recent developments in the reconciliation between Palestinian factions. Abdullah said that he backs Egypt's efforts to end the rift between Palestinian movements Fatah and Hamas, who reached a reconciliation deal under Cairo's sponsorship last week. Search Keywords: Short link: Iraqi forces seized the Kirkuk governor's office, key military sites and an oil field as they swept across the disputed province following soaring tensions with Kurds over an independence referendum. The rapid advance, involving troops, tanks and armoured vehicles, aims to recapture oil and military targets that Kurdish forces took over during the fightback against the Islamic State militant group (IS). Iraqi forces thrust into Kirkuk city, capital of the oil-rich province, and took control of the governor's office, which had been left deserted, the federal police chief said. Thousands of residents fled Kurdish districts, heading in buses and cars towards the autonomous Kurdistan region of northern Iraq. "We're leaving because we're scared there will be clashes" in the ethnically mixed city of 850,000 people, said 51-year-old Chounem Qader. Meanwhile crowds on the streets of Kirkuk's southern outskirts welcomed Iraqi forces as they entered the city, where they were seen raising Iraqi flags in the place of Kurdish ones. President Donald Trump said the United States was "not taking sides" in the conflict as the US-led coalition urged Kurds and Iraqi forces to focus on fighting the Islamist militants, on the verge of losing their last strongholds in Iraq. US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said the United States was "very concerned" by the reports of violence. "We strongly urge all parties to avoid provocations that can be exploited by Iraq's enemies who are interested in fueling ethnic and sectarian conflict," she said. The police called on residents who had fled to return as it said the situation was stable, and late Monday declared a night-time curfew in Kirkuk city. Iraqi and Kurdish peshmerga forces exchanged artillery fire early Monday south of Kirkuk city, after the launch of the operation overnight which triggered a spike in oil prices on world markets. Pumping stopped at Kirkuk's two main oil fields as Kurdish technicians halted operations and left the wells, an oil ministry official said. A Kurdish health official said at least 10 peshmerga fighters were killed and 27 wounded during fighting overnight. The rapid progress of Iraqi forces suggested that Kurdish fighters were withdrawing with little or no resistance in many areas. Iraq's Joint Operations Command said its forces had retaken the K1 military base northwest of Kirkuk, the military airport east of the city and the Baba Gargar oil field, one of six in the disputed region. The operation follows an armed standoff between Kurdish forces and the Iraqi army prompted by the September 25 non-binding referendum that produced a resounding "yes" for Kurdish independence. Baghdad has declared the vote illegal. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said the operation was necessary to "protect the unity of the country". Peshmerga forces loyal to the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), a political party linked to Iraqi President Fuad Masum, a Kurd, were reported to be withdrawing from areas under their control. The PUK had supported a UN-backed plan for negotiations with Baghdad in exchange for dropping the referendum. Pro-PUK forces were deployed south of Kirkuk, including at oil fields, while fighters loyal to the rival Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) linked to Iraqi Kurd leader Massud Barzani who initiated the referendum, were deployed to the north. The US-led coalition battling IS called for dialogue between Iraqi and Kurdish authorities. "All parties must remain focused on the defeat of our common enemy, ISIS, in Iraq," said Major General Robert White, a commanding general in the coalition, referring to IS. The coalition said it was aware of reports of clashes but they appeared to be the result of a "misunderstanding and not deliberate". On Sunday, Iraq's National Security Council said it viewed as a "declaration of war" the presence of "fighters not belonging to the regular security forces in Kirkuk", including fighters from Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Ankara, which fears the independence vote by the Iraqi Kurds could spark similar moves by its own Kurdish minority, said it was ready to help Baghdad oust Kurdish fighters from Kirkuk. Long claimed by the Kurds as part of their historic territory, Kirkuk province has emerged as the main flashpoint in the dispute. Polling during the referendum was held not only in the three provinces of the autonomous Kurdish region but also in adjacent Kurdish-held areas, including Kirkuk, that are claimed by both Baghdad and Iraqi Kurdistan. The Kurds have been in control of six fields in the Kirkuk region providing some 340,000 of the 550,000 barrels per day exported by the regional administration. The fields would provide crucial revenue to Baghdad, which has been left cash-strapped from the global fall in oil prices and three years of battle against IS. Search Keywords: Short link: US-backed forces took full control of Raqa from the Islamic State (IS) militant group on Tuesday, defeating the last IS holdouts in the de facto Syrian capital of their now-shattered "caliphate". The victory caps a battle of more than four months for Raqa, and hammers another nail in the coffin of the IS experiment in statehood, which has collapsed in the face of offensives in Syria and Iraq. Inside Raqa, joyous fighters from the Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Forces celebrated and raised their yellow flag in the city's Al-Naim traffic circle, which became known as "Hell Roundabout" after it was used for gruesome public executions. "Hell Roundabout is now Al-Naim Roundabout again," the fighters cheered, surrounded by crushed buildings and charred cars damaged in the ferocious battle for the city. The SDF broke into Raqa in June, after months of fighting to surround the city, and on Tuesday flushed the last few hundred IS fighters from their remaining positions in the main hospital and the municipal stadium. "Everything is finished in Raqa, our forces have taken full control of Raqa," the alliance's spokesman Talal Sello told AFP. He said the SDF was combing the city for any remaining IS who had not surrendered or been killed. "The military operations in Raqa have finished, but there are clearing operations now under way to uncover any sleeper cells there might be and remove mines," he said. The announcement came just days after the SDF said it was launching the final phase of its operation to retake the city. There had been fears that the force, backed by the US-led coalition battling IS in Syria and Iraq, could get bogged down in a protracted battle for the last 10 percent of the city where IS had prepared for a final stand. But on Tuesday they captured the hospital and stadium in quick succession, effectively ending IS's more than three-year presence in the city. Sello said an official statement announcing "the liberation of the city" would be made soon. The breakthrough in the operation, which was launched on June 6, came after a deal was struck allowing the evacuation in recent days of civilians who had been held as human shields. Under the deal, a total of 275 Syrian IS fighters and relatives also surrendered to the SDF, though it was unclear whether they would be given safe passage elsewhere. The battle for the city was fierce, with the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor saying Tuesday more than 1,000 civilians had been killed in the fighting. The Britain-based group put the overall death toll for the battle at 3,250, with 1,130 civilians among them, but said hundreds more were still missing. Tens of thousands of civilians fled the fighting, some leaving ahead of the SDF's arrival, and others escaping towards the militia as they advanced in the city. For Umm Abdullah, a Raqa native who fled the city three years ago, news of its capture from IS was overwhelming. "I can't describe my happiness," the 44-year-old told AFP in the town of Kobane, 100 kilometres (70 miles) north of Raqa. "When my sister told me it had been freed, she started to cry, and then I started to cry. Thank God, thank God." After IS captured Raqa in 2014, the city become synonymous with ISs worst abuses and was transformed into a planning centre for attacks abroad. Its capture leaves the group with little more than a "dwarf territory" in neighbouring Deir Ezzor province, said Nicholas Heras, a fellow at the Centre for a New American Security think tank. "IS will be mainly boxed into a strip of territory running along the Middle Euphrates River Valley in the province of Deir Ezzor," he told AFP. "This will be the centre of gravity for IS in Syria." IS face two separate assaults in the province, which neighbours Iraq, including a campaign by the SDF. A Russian-backed Syrian regime campaign has separately retaken swathes of territory in the province, further reducing a "caliphate" that three years ago was roughly the size of Britain. The Observatory said regime forces had brought the entire area between Deir Ezzor city and Mayadeen, which was retaken on Saturday, under their control following a major military offensive. "These are not desert areas, they are villages along the Euphrates that were IS strongholds," the monitor said. "The Islamic State group is collapsing under pressure from the regime in Deir Ezzor province," it said. IS also controls territory in neighbouring regions on the Iraqi side of the border, where IS are facing another US-backed offensive by Iraqi pro-government forces. Search Keywords: Short link: Advertisement The BHF, Resuscitation Council (UK), St John Ambulance, British Red Cross, Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) and all the UK NHS ambulance services along with Fire & Rescue services are working together to address this.Researchers at the University of Warwick carried out a survey of 2,000 people across the country to find out how likely people are to witness a life-threatening cardiac arrest. In addition to the vast numbers of people who have seen someone suffer a cardiac arrest, they also found that people were nearly three times more likely to perform CPR if they had received training. This highlights the importance of learning CPR to help improve survival rates.Survival rates for out of hospital cardiac arrest in the UK are still worryingly low with less than one in ten people surviving. The BHF estimates that 10,000 people die every year in the UK as rates of bystander CPR are as low as 39% in some parts of the country. This is significantly worse than other places such as the Netherlands (66%), Seattle (69%), Victoria, Australia (69%) and Norway (73%).Every minute without CPR or defibrillation can reduce a person's chance of surviving a cardiac arrest by around ten per cent. If CPR is taught more widely, it's estimated that thousands of lives could be saved every year.A survey conducted by the BHF revealed that an overwhelming 89% of respondents also believe that CPR should be taught in all schools in the UK. The same survey showed that there is a significant reluctance to perform CPR with 40% of respondents stating that they lacked the skills and knowledge to perform CPR.On and around 16 October, events will be taking place across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, in a bid to create over 150,000 new young lifesavers on Restart a Heart Day.Prof Gavin Perkins, Professor of Critical Care Medicine at the University of Warwick, who led the research, said:"Our research shows just how important it is for everyone to learn CPR. It is staggering to think that 1 in 5 of us will at some point have the opportunity to save a life by giving CPR."CPR is a vital step in the chain of survival after a cardiac arrest. The chance of surviving is almost zero if people collapse and receive no bystander CPR until the emergency services arrive. Thousands of deaths could be prevented if more people learn CPR.""CPR is the difference between life and death for thousands of people every year in the UK who suffer a cardiac arrest. Every second counts, and it simply isn't enough to hope that someone who knows CPR is present. We need everyone to learn this life-saving skill to give them the confidence to step in and give CPR when someone collapses after a cardiac arrest. That's why we are urging secondary schools across the UK to apply for our free training kits and help create a Nation of Lifesavers.""The young people who receive CPR training today will become the lifesavers of tomorrow. Today, over 150,000 young people will receive both face-to-face and online instruction through our free Lifesaver app, which can be played on a mobile device anytime, anywhere and downloaded from Lifesaver.org.uk. The CPR these young people learn today will be a skill they carry with them throughout their lives.""For this year's Restart a Heart day, we will see unprecedented numbers of young people being taught the vital lifesaving skill of CPR. Endeavours ranging from individual effort through to nationally coordinated activity will show that there is a desire to improve the chances of survival for victims of cardiac arrest. Everyone can be a lifesaver and the skills are easy to learn, either online or with face-to-face training. Most out of hospital cardiac arrests happen in the home, so everyone should ensure that they are those around them are skilled up to save a life.""Since we pioneered the mass CPR training event at Yorkshire's secondary schools with our partners on Restart a Heart Day in 2014, we have seen improvements in our out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival rates as well as an increase in the number of people willing to use CPR when someone suffers the ultimate medical emergency. The value of events like Restart a Heart Day cannot be underestimated.""We're thrilled that so many schools have chosen to take part, and we recognise that many more train first aid at other times of the year. Now's the time for first aid education to be available to all our young people. Learning CPR and other lifesaving skills should be part of their passage into adulthood and with many free resources available for schools like our Big First Aid Lesson on 3rd November, there is plenty of opportunity for children to become life savers.""We want all young people to feel confident and willing to help when faced with a first aid emergency. Learning first aid helps to increase confidence levels and we believe it's a life skill everyone should have."Ultimately the British Red Cross would like everyone to have the opportunity to learn first aid throughout their lives, starting at school, so that a generation of people can be equipped with the skills they need to help in an emergency."Our free teaching resources and workshops are designed to give young people the skills, confidence and willingness to act in an emergency."Sir Bruce Keogh, Medical Director for NHS England said: "When one in five people witness someone collapsing who clearly needs CPR but the majority don't feel able to help, it's time to act. Teaching CPR to school children equips them with the knowledge that will ensure they can act in times of need. Empowering a young person with such a skill will allow them to take control in such a situation and possibly ultimately save a life."The BHF's Call Push Rescue CPR training kit is free for eligible secondary schools in the UK. Accredited by The PSHE Association for use in PSHE and PSE lessons, the kit comprises quality training equipment and resources needed to teach children lifesaving CPR skills.Source: Eurekalert Advertisement Nicholas T. Van Dam, Marieke K. van Vugt, David R. Vago, Laura Schmalzl, Clifford D. Saron, Andrew Olendzki, Ted Meissner, Sara W. Lazar, Catherine E. Kerr*, Jolie Gorchov, Kieran C. R. Fox, Brent A. Field, Willoughby B. Britton, Julie A. Brefczynski-Lewis, David E. Meyer. Mind the Hype: A Critical Evaluation and Prescriptive Agenda for Research on Mindfulness and Meditation Show less, Perspectives on Psychological Science DOI:10.1177/1745691617709589 The widespread adoption of therapies has put the field at a critical crossroads, the authors argued, where appropriate checks and balances must be implemented."Misinformation and poor methodology associated with past studies of mindfulness may lead public consumers to be harmed, misled and disappointed," they wrote.Co-author Willoughby Britton, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavior at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University said: "We are sometimes overselling the benefits of mindfulness to pretty much any person who has any condition, without much caution, nuance or condition-specific modifications, instructor training criteria, and basic science around mechanism of action.The possibility of unsafe or adverse effects has been largely ignored. This situation is not unique to mindfulness, but because of mindfulness's widespread use in mental health, schools and apps, it is not ideal from a public health perspective."Lead author Nicholas Van Dam, a clinical psychologist and research fellow in psychological sciences at the University of Melbourne in Australia, said that the point of the article is not to disparage mindfulness and meditation practice or research, but to ensure that their applications for enhancing mental and physical health become more reflective of scientific evidence.So far, such applications have largely been unsupported, according to major reviews of available evidence in 2007 and again in 2014. "The authors think there can be something beneficial about mindfulness and meditation," Van Dam said. "We think these practices might help people. But the rigor that should go along with developing and applying them just isn't there yet. Results from the few large-scale studies that have been conducted so far have proven equivocal at best."Added co-author David E. Meyer, a professor of psychology at the University of Michigan, "Sometimes, truly promising fields of endeavor get outstripped by efforts to harvest them before they're really ripe; then workers there must step back, pause to take stock, and get a better plan before moving onward."Future efforts to improve the quality of mindfulness and meditation research will be bolstered by a new research center at Brown University, led by Eric Loucks, an associate professor in the university's School of Public Health. "The center's mission will be to perform high-quality, methodologically rigorous research about impacts of mindfulness on health, and to offer collaborative, evidence-based resources for hospitals, schools and businesses that are interested in offering mindfulness-based interventions," Loucks said.Among the biggest problems facing the field is that mindfulness is poorly and inconsistently defined both in popular media and the scientific literature.According to the authors, there "is neither one universally accepted technical definition of 'mindfulness' nor any broad agreement about detailed aspects of the underlying concept to which it refers." As a result, research papers have varied widely in what they actually examine, and often, their focus can be hard to discern."Any study that uses the term 'mindfulness' must be scrutinized carefully, ascertaining exactly what type of 'mindfulness' was involved, what sorts of explicit instruction were actually given to participants for directing practice," the authors wrote."When formal meditation was used in a study, one ought to consider whether a specifically defined type of mindfulness or other meditation was the target practice.""Without specific, well-defined terms to describe not only practices but also their effects, studies of interventions such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) cannot provide valid and comparable measurements to produce reliable evidence." As part of its proposed remedy, the new article offers a "non-exhaustive list of defining features for characterizing contemplative and medication practices."Along with specific, precise and standardized definitions, similar improvements in research methodology must also come, the authors wrote."Many intervention studies lack or have inactive control groups," Van Dam said. The field also has struggled to achieve consistency in what it is being measured and how to measure those things perceived to be of greatest importance to mindfulness.Van Dam said the situation is akin to earlier psychological research on intelligence. This concept proved to be too broad and too vague to measure directly.Ultimately, however, psychologists have made progress by studying the "particular cognitive capacities that, in combination, may make people functionally more or less intelligent," he and his co-authors wrote.Thus, the authors wrote, "We recommend that future research on mindfulness aim to produce a body of work for describing and explaining what biological, emotional, cognitive, behavioral and social, as well as other such mental and physical functions, change with mindfulness training."A wide variety of contemplative practices have been studied for an even larger variety of purposes, yet in both basic and clinical studies of mindfulness and meditation, researchers have rarely advanced to the stage where they can confidently conclude whether particular effects or specific benefits resulted directly from the practice.Measured by the National Institutes of Health's stage model for clinical research, only 30 percent of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have moved past the first stage, and only 9 percent have tested efficacy in a research clinic against an active control."Given the absence of scientific rigor in much clinical mindfulness research, evidence for use of MBIs in clinical contexts should be considered preliminary.," the authors wrote.The proposed agenda for future research is rigorous and extensive, Van Dam said. "Replication of earlier studies with appropriately randomized designs and proper active control groups will be absolutely critical," the authors continued. "In conducting this work, we recommend that researchers provide explicit detail of mindfulness measures, primary outcome measures, mindfulness/meditation practices and intervention protocol."Researchers and care providers involved with delivering MBIs have begun to become more vigilant about possible adverse effects, the authors wrote, but more needs to be done. As of 2015, fewer than 25 percent of meditation trials actively monitored for negative or challenging experiences.Van Dam said recent efforts to assess the neural correlates of mindfulness and meditation with technologies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetoencephalography, may perhaps have the potential to bring new rigor to the field.Nonetheless, he and his co-authors also express concern in the article that these technologies so far have not fulfilled this potential.The authors note that technologies such as MRI depend on subjects remaining physically still while being tested, and image quality can be affected by subjects' rate of breathing.Experienced meditators may be better suited to maintaining ideal physiological states for MRI studies than are inexperienced individuals or non-meditators.Due to such problematic factors, between-group differences in brain scans might have little to do with the mental state researchers are attempting to measure and much to do with head motion and/or breathing differences."Contemplative neuroscience has often led to overly simplistic interpretations of nuanced neurocognitive and affective phenomena," the authors wrote. "As a result of such oversimplifications, meditative benefits may be exaggerated and undue societal urgency to undertake mindfulness practices may be encouraged." .Ultimately that's the authors' shared concern: Insufficient research may mislead people to think that the vague brands of "mindfulness" and "meditation" are broad-based panaceas when in fact refined interventions may only be helpful for particular people in specific circumstances. .More, and much better, scientific studies are needed to clarify these matters. Otherwise people may waste time and money, or worse, suffer needless adverse effects."This paper is a coordinated effort among concerned mindfulness researchers and meditation scholars to rectify this gap to maximize benefit and minimize harm from MBIs," Britton said.Source: Eurekalert Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends. Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice. It's not every day that we see a politician celebrating the festivities or traditions of another nation's community; that too with full pomp and show. But this is where Justin Trudeau comes into the picture and wins over our hearts. (Like always!) The Canadian Prime Minister is not only loved by his countrymen but also by people across the world. His gestures, quirky tweets, his advocacy for secularity and of course, his handsome looks have managed to steal the hearts of people worldwide. And yet again, this young politician has managed to steal the show this Diwali, all the while looking dapper in a traditional black sherwani. We don't need to tell you how many Indians reside in Canada and how happy they are with everything that the great white north has to offer to its citizens. But watching Trudeau immersing himself in a festival so close to India sure does warm our hearts. Last night, Trudeau took to Twitter to wish people a happy Diwali and also talked about how he is going to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau participates in a reception in Ottawa celebrating #Diwali. pic.twitter.com/8DYFrl2F5Z CanadianPM (@CanadianPM) October 17, 2017 Tweeting a picture of himself, wearing an ethnic Indian outfit while lighting a ceremonial lamp was all what that needed to set the internet abuzz. The Indian High Commissioner to Canada, Vikas Swarup couldn't have been happier as he took to his Twitter share some pictures of the festivities. And from what we see, the night definitely saw a grand event which was named #DiwaliOnTheHill. There even were several entertaining cultural dance performances for the guests to enjoy. Twitter/Vikas Swarup Twitter/Vikas Swarup The ceremonial Diwali puja was performed by Trudeau and he even delivered Diwali greetings to the strong and vibrant Indian communities of Canada present there. Vikas Swarup And here is Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau conveying his very warm Diwali greetings to everyone pic.twitter.com/7YkD6B5Jxm Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) October 17, 2017 But as Mr. Swarup himself declared, the highlight of the event was the Ottawa unveiling of the joint India Canada stamps. Twitter/Vikas Swarup Twitter/Vikas Swarup The party was later followed by a dinner at India House in honor of the Chief Justice of India, Dipak Misra, who was present there with his delegation. Diwali on the Hill was followed by a Diwali Dinner at India House in honour of the Chief Justice of India &his very distinguished delegation pic.twitter.com/AKu9TVzTvj Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) October 17, 2017 However, this is not the first time that Justin Trudeau has celebrated an Indian festival, as Twitter is flooded with images of him celebrating Holi, Gurpurab. He does so almost every year and he always been vocal about his love and respect for different cultures and faiths across the world which makes our fondness and respect for him increase manifold! Remember that half-an-hour lunch break that used to be our only solace during school and even college? You'd channel your inner Usain Bolt and dash out the second the bell rang. But after learning the story of an Indian-origin teenager who is currently UK's youngest millionaire, we are being hit by feelings of inadequacy! Apologies for the sadistic nature but we want you to know about him too. Akshay Ruparelia, a 19-year-old, Indian origin boy has just been named the youngest millionaire of UK. His net worth is estimated to be around 12 million pounds which rounds about to Rs 103.4 crore! And guess what he owes his success to? Selling houses during his school lunch breaks. Facebook (Akshay Ruparelia) While kids his age (read: most of us) were playing video games, surfing on Facebook endlessly for no reasons at all, Akshay made REALLY good use of his time and cell phone and started a business website called doorstep.co.uk that sold properties for a fraction of the cost that other bigger firms charge. The teenager borrowed 7,000 pounds from his relatives to start the website. But since he was a school student who couldn't attend calls the entire days, he hired a call centre to take calls from clients during school hours. And once his classes were over, he would return the calls and negotiate deals. The Sun Within 16 months of going live, his website became the 18th biggest estate agency in the UK and he claims to have sold properties worth 100 million pounds. In an interview with 'Daily Mirror', he talked about how he had a sudden realization while studying for his financial studies exams and got inspired by a biography of Ryanair founder, Michael O'Leary. He says, Mr. O' Leary began by selling flights for just 4.99 and his point was that if you deliver what you say you will, you hook people in and your business will work. He said that other online estate agencies charge home-owners 800 and 1,000 to help them sell their house, adding that he was confident that he could do it for a fraction of the cost. Following O'Learty's model, his company charges a meager 99 pounds, as opposed to the exorbitant prices of other firms. He currently employs 12 people to run the business. Doorsteps Talking about the first house he sold, Akshay talked about the problems he faced, I had to pay my big sister's boyfriend 40 to drive me to take photographs of this man's house. I had not passed my driving test; I did not have a car. I could not celebrate, I had to go home and revise for my exams. I got a Domino's pizza in as a treat. With his business now being a roaring success, Akshay is able to support his parents who are both deaf. His father, Kaushik is a care worker while his mother, Renuka is a teaching assistant for deaf children. Impressed by him, Oxford University has offered him a chance to study economics and mathematics, but he is putting it on hold as his business is doing so well and he wants to take it forward. The Sun Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov will meet Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in Moscow this week to discuss the situation around the Iran nuclear deal, the Interfax news agency quoted the Russian as saying on Tuesday. "Certainly, the focus is on the situation around the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in the light of (U.S. President Donald) Trump's statement about his intentions ... and signals that the USA is inclined to supplement this document, to alter it or modify in a direction that suits Washington," Ryabkov was quoted as saying. Search Keywords: Short link: A top advisor to Iran's supreme leader warned European governments on Tuesday against imposing new conditions on the nuclear deal. "To say that they accept the JCPOA (nuclear deal) but should negotiate on Iran's regional presence or talk about Iran's missile defences is to set conditions on the JCPOA, and this is not at all acceptable," said Ali Akbar Velayati, senior foreign policy advisor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "This is not Europeans' right. The JCPOA has no conditions and it must be implemented according to what was signed," he said in comments carried by the state broadcaster. In a call with his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani on Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron said talks on regional security and Iran's ballistic missile programme were necessary to ensure the survival of the 2015 nuclear deal. Without referring directly to Macron, Velayati said European leaders "should take more care in their remarks and demands". Despite calling for further talks, Macron has staunchly backed the nuclear accord against US President Donald Trump's threats to "terminate" it. His call with Rouhani came shortly after Trump's bellicose speech criticising the deal, and Macron said he would visit Iran "at the appropriate time". Search Keywords: Short link: Israel's government decided Tuesday not to negotiate with a Palestinian unity government that includes Hamas if the Islamist movement does not disarm, recognise the country and give up violence. The decision by the security cabinet, announced in a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, comes after rival Palestinian movements Fatah and Hamas signed a landmark unity deal last week aimed at ending their decade-long split. The statement said negotiations would not be held until a range of conditions were met -- and it seemed unlikely that all demands could be reached. "The government of Israel will not carry out political negotiations with a Palestinian government that relies on Hamas, a terror organisation which calls for the destruction of Israel, until it fulfils the following conditions," the statement said. Beyond the initial three demands, it also said Hamas must no longer be supported by Iran, which provides it with military assistance. In addition, it said the remains of two missing Israeli soldiers must be returned from the Gaza Strip to Israel. Three Israeli civilians believed held in Gaza, all said to be mentally unstable, must also be returned, it said. In Gaza, Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum told AFP that the organisation would ignore such "blatant Zionist interventions in Palestinian issues." "The response must be to continue to strengthen the internal Palestinian front, and complete the reconciliation in every file under what was agreed in the Cairo agreement," he added. Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah, based in the occupied West Bank, and Hamas, which runs the Gaza Strip, signed the unity agreement in Cairo on Thursday. Abbas spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina also dismissed the Israeli declaration. "Israeli remarks will not change the official Palestinian position to move forward with reconciliation efforts and achieve the hopes and aspirations of our people," he said in a statement to official news agency WAFA. "The international community, including the American administration, has welcomed the return of the Palestinian national authority to the Gaza Strip," he added. The Abbas-led Palestine Liberation Organisation has recognised Israel, unlike Hamas. Search Keywords: Short link: Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ioannis Amanatidis, is carrying out a three-day visit to Egypt, where he will have a number of meetings with political and religious figures. It should be noted that the 2nd International Conference on Religious and Cultural Pluralism and Peaceful Coexistence in the Middle East an initiative of Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikos Kotzias, in which Egypts participation has been exceptional is being held in Athens from 29 to 31 October. The first stop on the Deputy Minister's visit is the Patriarchate of Alexandria, where he will be received by Patriarch Theodoros II of Alexandria and All Africa. He will then give a welcome speech at the presentation of the commemorative album entitled Patriarchate of Alexandria, 10 years since the inauguration of the Patriarchal Palace. On Tuesday, 17 October 2017, Mr. Amanatidis will travel to the Sinai Peninsula, where he will carry out a visit to the Governor of South Sinai, Gen. Khaled Fouda. Following the meeting, Mr. Amanatidis will travel on to historic Saint Catherines Monastery, on Mount Sinai. While at the Monastery, he will be briefed on the educational and cultural activities of this important UNESCO Cultural Heritage Monument and on issues the ancient Monastery faces. Some 582,000 Rohingya refugees have fled their homes in Myanmar and arrived in Bangladesh since late August, the United Nations said Tuesday, warning that thousands more were stranded at the border. The UN said 582,000 members of the Rohingya community had crossed into Bangladesh since August 25, marking a jump of 45,000 from the 537,000 figure given at the weekend. Marixie Mercado, a spokeswoman for the UN children's agency, told reporters in Geneva though that the hike was not likely due to a sudden influx, but rather to improved access to some areas where many refugees had previously gone uncounted. The Rohingya are fleeing violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state, where the UN has accused troops of waging an ethnic cleansing campaign against them. The numbers have soared since August 25, when militant attacks on Myanmar's security forces in Rakhine sparked a major military backlash. UN refugee agency (UNHCR) spokesman Andrej Mahecic expressed deep concern over the "condition of thousands of new arrivals who are stranded near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border." "Since Sunday night, an estimated 10,000-15,000 Rohingya refugees have entered Bangladesh through the Anjuman Para border crossing point in Ukhia district in the country's south-east," he told reporters. He said many of them had chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed. "They finally fled when their villages were set on fire," he said. He said UNHCR staff had spoken with people who described walking for around a week to reach the Bangladesh border. Most are still squatting in paddy fields in Bangladesh, and were waiting for permission to move away from the border, he said. "UNHCR is advocating with the Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly-difficult conditions back home," Mahecic said. "Every minute counts, given the fragile conditions they're arriving in," he stressed. Search Keywords: Short link: Thousands of people are protesting in Barcelona to demand the release of two Catalan pro-independence activists jailed a day earlier by Spanish authorities in a sedition case. The demonstrators have flooded a main avenue, holding up candles, pro-independence "estelada" flags and chanted "political prisoners, freedom." The jailed activists are Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart, who lead two different grassroots groups. On Monday, a Madrid judge provisionally jailed Sanchez and Cuixart in a sedition investigation. The judge ruled they were behind huge demonstrations Sept. 20-21 in Barcelona that hindered the police operation against preparations for an Oct. 1 independence referendum. Spain's top court has ruled that the referendum was unconstitutional, adding legal weight to the government's efforts to block an attempt by the region to break away from Spain. A Catalan official says the jailing of two prominent Catalan separatist activists shows how the central Spanish authorities in Madrid are choosing "repression over dialogue." The Spanish government has said no dialogue can take place if Catalan independence on the table because reforming Spain's Constitution in the national parliament is the only legal way a region can secede. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's conservative government has threatened to take over some or all of Catalonia's regional powers if separatist authorities don't fall in line by Thursday morning. Catalonia cabinet spokesman Jordi Turull, however, says central authorities don't need to wait for the deadline. He says "from now to Thursday, the state has the opportunity to sit down and talk." Noting the victory of the region's dispute Oct. 1 independence vote, Turull said "surrendering is obviously not part of this government's plan." Search Keywords: Short link: Mohamed Abou El-Enein, head of the European-Egyptian Business Council, said the return of ambassador Giampaolo Cantini 'provides a new opportunity' for the resumption of investment Mohamed Abou El-Enein, the head of the European-Egyptian Business Council (EEBC), said on Monday that Italian investors are keen on doing business in Egypt, citing the renewed involvement of the Italian ambassador as a sign of an investment-friendly environment. Abou El-Enein made the comments during a meeting of the EEBC in Cairo, which was attended by Italy's ambassador to Cairo Giampaolo Cantini. It was the first time Cantini had attended a council meeting since he was recalled to Rome after the killing of Italian PhD student Giulio Regeni in January 2016. The ambassador returned to Egypt in September this year, a move widely seen as marking an improvement in Egypt-Italy relations since the murder. Abou El-Enein said Cantini's return "provides a new opportunity for the resumption of [Italian] investments," mainly in light of a newly introduced investment law that is intended to streamline doing business in Egypt and provide more incentives to investors." The EEBC chief said some Italian investors have showed interest in investing in Egypt, mainly in its Golden Triangle project a free economic zone in the Eastern Desert dedicated to mining. He called for bolstering Egyptian-Italian cooperation in technical education, increasing investment opportunities between the two countries, as well as boosting exports from small- and medium-sized projects targeting Italian markets. Investment law helping Cantini said Egypt's new investment law is one of the measures that would facilitate investment in the country and encourage investors to pump money into new areas in Egypt. In August, Egypts cabinet passed regulations for the new investment law, which is aimed at attracting badly needed foreign investors to help the economy recover after the 2011 revolution. The law is expected to reduce red tape, especially for new projects, and provides a raft of incentives to investors, including tax breaks. The law has been passed to Egypts administrative court for a final legal review before it comes into force. The Italian ambassador said his country is looking forward to bolstering cooperation with Cairo, saying that there has been a boost in economic cooperation and trade exchange between the two countries of late. He said Italy aims to increase investmets in Egypt in the near future, mainly in food industries. He added that there are good opportunities to promote tourism between the two nations, saying that Rome aims to send 1.1 million Italian tourists to Egypt. Earlier in October, Pope Francis of the Vatican presented Egyptian Tourism Minister Yehia Rashid with an icon depicting the Holy Family in Egypt, which he had blessed. The move was described by Rashid as the crowning glory of Egyptian government efforts to revive international Christian pilgrimage to Egypt. The ministry said the blessing comes as an important step in the process of including the Egyptian routes in Roman Catholic pilgrimage programmes next year. Search Keywords: Short link: UPPER THUMB -- Homeschooling children is something many people do for various reasons, when young parents decide that teaching in a home environment has advantages over a more structured educational system. Such is the case with Shar Mohr, of Bad Axe. Mother to five young, inquisitive minds, she continually strives to find subjects that are not only educational, but may have the potential to create a life experience. Her effort resulted in a trip of a lifetime for Mohr: Ten days in Japan, with four days living with a host family. It was a chance to see how life is lived in another country. "I was online, researching some information about Japan," said Mohr. "The kids were expressing some interest, and I had some interest. The kids were primarily interested in anime, a Japanese form of animation, such as Pokeman ... that was around when I was younger. I really like it. It gave me the chance to sort of relive it, an excuse to sort of rekindle that interest." Mohr continued doing online research about Japan. "I thought we could find something in Michigan to go to, because a trip to Japan wasn't going to happen," she said. "I was looking for something we could experience that would give us a piece of Japan. When I homeschool, I try to find everything I can about a subject. We can't just watch cartoons and call that a Japanese lesson. I was looking for a way to tie it in, while they still had the interest." During her research, a website popped up concerning a connection between Michigan and the prefecture of Shiga, in Japan. She discovered a group that sponsored a trip to Shiga every other year. This was in 2016 and the next trip was scheduled for September 2017. "I thought about the feasibility of it," Mohr said. Her father had recently passed away, and Mohr was struggling with the loss. "I remembered one of the things he'd said was, 'Don't wait to do things ... for good timing. That doesn't happen,'" Mohr said. "It didn't mean much to me at the time, but it kept circling in my brain and I thought maybe this was something I was supposed to do." After further research, she discovered the cost was reasonable, only $3,500 for 10 days. The trip included transportation, lodging, and meals. It also included a chance to experience Japanese home life. "In the U.S. and other countries, there are programs called sister state programs," Mohr said. "States in the U.S. that have a connection, either financially, economically, or culturally with another country will form a sister state bond. It's a special program to promote cultural exchange." With five kids ranging in age from five to 14, and a self-employed husband, she really didn't believe it would ever happen. She decided to seriously consider taking the trip despite the logistical problems. "We started saving up, little by little, by being frugal, setting aside tax return money, and by doing little things like cutting my own hair," Mohr said. "Anything I could do, I'd do, and put it aside as money for Japan." In the meantime, she began learning Japanese, both written and spoken. "Because I have a limited income, and was trying to save money, I was using apps on the phone," Mohr said. "It was like virtual flash cards." She combined her own Japanese lessons with home schooling, but did the majority of her studying on her own time. "It meant waking up early and doing 10 to 15 minutes of Japanese before the kids got up," Mohr said. "It meant that while I was doing the laundry, I would take 10 or 15 minutes to do a level on the app." It was always in the back of her mind that something would come up to prevent her from going, but she continued studying. "I thought, even if I don't go, at least I'm learning something," Mohr said. "Learning Japanese was fun." Speaking Japanese became the norm in the Mohr house, and maps of Japan and Japanese language characters decorated the walls. "My husband wants to learn now," Mohr said. "Since I've been learning, I use the words, and he's gotten interested." Eventually, the day arrived and Mohr departed the airport in Detroit bound for Japan -- the trip of a lifetime. She arrived at the airport in Nagoya, Japan, and traveled by bus to the prefecture of Shiga. Jet-lagged and physically and mentally drained, Mohr was thrilled to be in Japan. Over the next few days, Mohr and her group of about 30 people visited various attractions throughout the prefecture. Shiga has a large fresh-water lake inside its boundaries, making it the perfect sister state to Michigan. It is home to tourism, industry, and agriculture. Mohr's group saw many sites and returned to their hotel each evening tired but happily looking forward to the days ahead. The highlight of her trip was the four nights and three days at the home of a host family. Mohr was delighted, but somewhat apprehensive. "I never went to college," Mohr said. "I went from being at home to being married, so I had never lived with strangers. Going into a person's home that you don't know ... and they don't speak any English ... is scary." Her host family consisted of a mother and father in their 40's with three daughters ranging in age from seven to 14. The mother spoke a few rudimentary words of English. No one else did. They accepted her graciously, and treated her with dignity and respect. It seemed to be a cultural norm, and created memories and a view of Japan that will last a lifetime. "It was a sense of community," Mohr said. "They are always thinking about others. We toured a school one day. There was so much encouragement between the children. In my host home, there was respect and politeness. Even the children ... it's their culture. So much of that is about the greater good. They are so proud of their country, each other, and the community. They love to support artists, craftsmen, and business people. It's an overwhelming sense of community. They were so kind and encouraging." Her host family lived in Takashima City. Her day-to-day itinerary was handled by the Takashima City International Friendship Association. Even though she was part of an organized tour, with virtually every facet of the trip laid out in advance, Mohr was still able to get a sense of everyday life in Shiga. Her day trips took her to a variety of businesses in the city. Being a self-professed book nerd, one site was right up her alley. "I visited a factory called Horizons, a book-binding service," Mohr said. "It was huge. I loved it. The factory is one of the largest in the world for book binding ... their equipment is used by Amazon for printing books on demand." Another memorable experience was visiting local convenience stores. "You don't think of a 7/11 here as having good food, but in Japan, a 7/11 has great food choices," Mohr said. "They have freshly prepared, authentic Japanese food, and it's very inexpensive. If you were to travel on your own, and wanted to find the cheapest food, you'd go to a 7/11." Some of the food wasn't exactly what she'd choose, but rice, tofu, and fish were available at nearly every meal during the time she was in Japan. "I loved it," Mohr said. "I eat that kind of food anyway. I know some Asian culture's food can be a little unusual; the weirdest thing we had was a couple small servings of dried fish that was hard to chew." Another aspect of Japanese life that is unusual to someone coming from the United States is the size of their roadways and vehicles. "My host mom had a little car," Mohr said. "The car was about the size of our kitchen table ... that's not an exaggeration. All their cars are like that, and the roads are extremely narrow. I didn't see any large cars, trucks, or vans." The experiences she had, and the memories made, will be something she can hold on to for the rest of her life. She liked it so much, a return trip hasn't been ruled out. "I joked with my husband that if it hadn't been for him and the children, I'd have ripped up my ticket and stayed there," Mohr said. Looking back, she is glad she heeded her father's advice and didn't put off the trip until some more convenient time. Mohr has some advice for others contemplating a trip they don't think they can afford. "I'd like to think people would take the opportunity to go," she said. "My excuse was that I'm a stay-at-home mom. I have kids, and my husband is self-employed. I can't just take off and go. Whatever reason you think you can't go, you can go. If you're looking for something to do with your life, to experience another culture, it's not that much money. For this trip, you have two years to save and plan. I really encourage others to try it." As a home-school mom, Mohr was continually on the lookout for educational opportunities for her children. She found one in teaching Japanese culture, and it ended up with her enjoying a trip of a lifetime. And she's willing to share her experiences with groups and organizations in Huron County that express an interest. COLFAX TOWNSHIP -- When military veterans Eric Motz and De'Cha LaVeau were told fellow veterans needed their help, they dropped everything and took off for Huron County. For Motz, a Pigeon native, it meant leaving the Mt. Pleasant area and returning to his roots. For LaVeau, it meant a long journey from Louisiana to the unknown of the Thumb. "This is it," said Motz. "This is where we belong." Through chance, the two strangers became team members when active Army Cpt. Gary Fleck reached out to them. Fleck was having trouble getting his vision -- a senior independent living facility for veterans -- off the ground and needed help. Fleck's business, Fiddler's Green LLC, is located at 2762 Pigeon Road in the former Sunny Acres Nursing Center outside of Bad Axe. "This is a mission for us," LaVeau said. "We're continuing our mission." That mission means the complete restoration of the building, which has sat vacant for at least the past five years. When finished, the property will serve as the area's only veteran's independent housing community, providing a low-cost alternative to assisted living, tailored to each resident's individual needs. The home is being assembled to address the lack of affordable assisted living facilities among the veteran community. It was something Fleck, an Alpena native, wanted to give to veterans of the area. "There is a heavy veteran presence here," LaVeau said. "This is absolutely needed." "A lot of veterans, we don't really connect once we come back into the civilian world, so something about us being all together just makes it feel like a home already," he added. Over the past month, Motz and LaVeau have been working long hours to get the facility ready to open by the start of next year, turning the former nursing home into a more inviting experience for its residents. When finished, it will include a living room, library, dining area, coffee bar, laundry room, shower facilities and offices, and will be able to house over 20 veterans. "We're using what's here and we're refurbishing it," Motz said. "And it's coming along nicely." Motz said Fiddler's Green already has a waiting list for those looking to get in. "We've had veterans come up since I put the banner out there," he said. "They'll come up and they'll ask, 'When do you guys open? This is where I want to be.' You don't want a bunch of veterans in one area feeling left alone. That's not what we're about. Not at all." Currently, the business is looking for any type of help it can get -- from volunteer support, to household items or even monetary support. "Anyone who loves the community and wants to give back to veterans, we'd love to have them," said LaVeau, who serves as administrator/director of marketing. Motz is the site manager/medical liaison. While the two wear many hats, they are also working hard at becoming subject matter experts in the financial side of assisted living for veterans. They said they will strive to help veterans tap all their available resources to help make things as affordable as possible. "This is that intermediate level -- they need assistance," LaVeau said. "That's what we're here for. They're coming here to live, not to die." For more information or to provide assistance to the company's mission, visit Fiddler's Green LLC on Facebook. Minister of International Cooperation and Investment Sahar Nasr met with World Bank officials in Washington on Monday Egyptian government officials held talks with the World Bank on Tuesday to discuss the accelerated disbursement of the third and final tranche of Egypt's $3 billion loan. The talks took place in Washington on the sidelines of the IMF/World Bank annual meeting, with Minister of International Cooperation and Investment Sahar Nasr heading Egypt's delegation. Nasr met with the CEO of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) Kristalina Georgia and the Vice President of the World Bank for the MENA region Hafez Ghanem. Under discussion was the accelerated signing of a final $1 billion tranche to support the country's economic and social program before the end of 2017. In March and September, Egypt received the first two $1 billion tranches from a total $3 billion package from the bank. During her meeting, Nasr highlighted the government's economic-reform efforts, as well as projects in transportation, education, infrastructure, and other development projects in North Sinai. "Collaboration between Egypt and the bank is moving on track in light of the bank's financing of Upper Egypt's development program with an amount of $500 million, and the social housing project with an amount of $550 million, and Social Safety Nets (SSN) with an amount of $400 million, and a sanitation system with an allocated amount of $500 million," the statement said. Nasr also extended an invitation to Kristalina Georgia to visit Egypt and participate in the "Investment for Sustainable Development: Africa 2017" forum, which will take place in December 2017. Georgia praised the economic reform measures undertaken by the Egyptian government, expressing the World Bank's keenness to increase support to Egypt in infrastructure-related projects, as well as continued support for its reform program. The World Bank finances several projects in Egypt, including projects related to energy, transport, water, wastewater, agriculture and irrigation, population and health. It also supports employment-intensive projects and finances small and medium-sized enterprises. According to the bank's data, the current portfolio of the World Bank in Egypt includes 26 projects with a total commitment of $5.92 billion. Search Keywords: Short link: The services' incentive comes at a time where the military is still grappling with getting troops to fully comply with its... Egypt's Minister of Finance Amr El-Garhy said on Tuesday in Washington that the Egyptian government is aiming to reduce the total budget deficit to 4-5 percent of the gross domestic product by 2022, Al-Ahram Arabic news website reported. In a meeting with Standard Bank investors to discuss the recent economic reforms in Egypt, El-Garhy said that the country seeks to reduce the budget deficit each year by 1-1.5 percent of the GDP. The budget gap for the last fiscal year, which ended on 30 June, shrank to 10.9 percent of GDP from 12.5 percent the previous year. El-Garhy said that reducing the deficit and public debt will provide more resources for investments and increasing growth in the public sector. The minister also revealed that the government is targeting $10 billion in direct investment in Egypt this year. He also said that the ministry of finance is considering releasing Eurobonds and USD-denominated bonds in 2018 to diversify the finance portfolio in Egypt. El-Garhy is heading a high-level delegation of officials in Washington to attend a number of meetings organised by the International Monetary fund and the World Bank. Search Keywords: Short link: The continuing U.S. mission in Iraq has been thrown into question even as ISIS is on the brink of defeat unless the Kurds and the Baghdad central government can avoid all-out conflict over Kurdish demands for independence, a U.S. military spokesman said Monday. "I'm not going to speculate on that," Army Col. Robert Manning said of the possibility of a U.S. pullout, "but I'll tell you we're looking at all options" in response to the dispute over the Kurds' goal of secession of their mostly autonomous northern region. "We encourage dialogue," he said. Manning, director of the Pentagon's press office, made the comments to defense reporters after the Iraqi Security Forces moved to retake the oil-rich north-central city of Kirkuk, where the Kurds have held sway since the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria swarmed into Iraq in 2014. Neither side gave a casualty toll for the operation, but an aid group working in Kirkuk said several Kurdish Peshmerga fighters and Iraqi soldiers had been killed in an overnight clash south of the city, Reuters reported. In a statement, the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq said any clashes between the Kurds and the Iraqi forces may have been the result of a "misunderstanding" on troop movements. "These movements of military vehicles, so far, have been coordinated movements, not attacks," the statement said. "We believe the engagement this morning was a misunderstanding and not deliberate as two elements attempted to link up under limited visibility conditions." The New York Times, reporting from Kirkuk, said the ISF, including units of the Shiite Popular Mobilization Forces supported by Iran, entered the city to cheering crowds as the Kurdish Peshmerga forces mostly abandoned their positions, with the exception of a few skirmishes on the outskirts. The Times also reported disarray in the Peshmerga ranks. Officials of a Kurdish opposition party, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, said their fighters would cooperate with the ISF, while those of the governing Kurdistan Democratic Party of Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), continued to resist. The Kurdish news agency Rudaw reported that thousands of residents of Kirkuk, a multi-ethnic city of about one million Kurds, Turkmens and Arabs, were fleeing to Irbil, capital of the Kurdish region. The KRG went ahead with a non-binding independence referendum Sept. 25 that received more than a 90 percent "Yes" vote, despite the pleas of the U.S., its allies and the United Nations to cancel, or at least postpone, the vote to avoid undermining the final stages of the fight against ISIS. ISIS' hold on Iraq has been reduced to a last stronghold in Al Qaim in Anbar province on the Iraq-Syria border amid reports of demoralized ISIS fighters fleeing the battlefield or surrendering. In Syria, the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, a mix of Arab and Kurdish fighters, were beginning a final push to retake Raqqa, the so-called capital of the ISIS "caliphate." At the White House, President Donald Trump called on the ISF and Kurds to drop their territorial dispute and refocus on ISIS. "We don't like the fact that they're clashing. We're not taking sides, but we don't like the fact that their clashing," Trump told reporters. "We've had for many years a very good relationship with the Kurds, as you know. And we've also been on the side of Iraq, even though we should have never been in there in the first place," he said, repeating his statement during the presidential campaign that the 2003 invasion of Iraq was a mistake. "We should never have been there, but we're not taking sides in that battle," Trump said of the new conflict between the Kurds and the Baghdad government. In statements, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said the action in Kirkuk was necessary to "protect the unity of the country, which was in danger of partition." "We call upon all citizens to cooperate with our heroic armed forces, which are committed to our strict directives to protect civilians in the first place, and to impose security and order, and to protect state installations and institutions," he said. In Baghdad, Army Col. Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, sent out a Tweet urging all sides to "avoid escalatory actions. Finish the fight vs. ISIS, biggest threat to all." In a briefing from Baghdad to the Pentagon last week, Army Maj. Gen. Robert White, commander of Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command-Operation Inherent Resolve, suggested the Kurdish-Iraqi dispute is distracting from the fight against ISIS as it neared conclusion. "Daesh [another name for ISIS] is fighting for survival. The physical caliphate has been defeated" with the ouster of ISIS fighters from 95 percent of Iraq's territory, he said. "They're starting to run away, and they're starting to surrender," White said. "They're losing, they know they're losing, and they're on their way out." "We're here to help the Iraqi Security Forces defeat ISIS," White said. "What's happening between the KRG [Kurdish Regional Government] and GOI [Government of Iraq] is political in nature, and it's for them to resolve." White disclosed that he met in late September in Irbil with Barzani on the way forward following the independence referendum. Barzani "was concerned that the coalition would stop providing support to his forces in the form of training," White said. "I assured him that that was not the case" and the training would continue "until I was instructed or ordered otherwise. And it has to date, and we are still programming that training well into the future." -- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com. Six days after a Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion caught fire in flight over Okinawa and was forced to land in a civilian-owned field, the aircraft have resumed normal flight operations, according to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The development comes as tensions in Okinawa intensify over continued Marine Corps aviation activities and fears for the safety of residents. The Japan Times reports the Super Stallion, which landed Oct. 11 near Okinawa's Northern Training Area, came down only a few hundred meters away from civilian homes. No Marines or civilians were injured, but some civilian property was destroyed. The outlet reports that the Okinawa Prefectural Assembly adopted a unanimous resolution on Monday protesting use of helipads in the Northern Training Area, which increases air traffic near Okinawan housing. "It was a great shock to Okinawa residents, who are forced to live alongside military bases," the resolution held, according to the Japan Times. "The anxiety and fear of the residents are immeasurable." Officials with III MEF said the governments of Japan and the Okinawa prefecture were notified of the Corps' decision to resume normal flights following the crash. During the five-day pause, aviation experts reviewed maintenance and inspection records and found nothing abnormal, officials said. The commanding general for III MEF and Marine Corps Forces Japan, Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson, was satisfied the Super Stallions could continue safe flight operations, the command said. "We are committed to the safety of flight for all USMC aviation assets in Japan. We take the safety of our aircrews and the citizens of Okinawa seriously," Nicholson said in a statement. "I would never allow an aircrew to operate an aircraft that I thought was unsafe," he continued. "The CH-53E is a reliable aircraft that has served this Alliance successfully for many decades here on Okinawa and in mainland Japan." It's the second time in fewer than 12 months that the Marine Corps has been forced to pause flight operations for an airframe in Okinawa after a major incident. In December 2016, a V-22 Osprey crash-landed in water off Okinawa. While some of the five crew members sustained injuries, all survived the crash. The Marine Corps conducted an operational pause for a little less than a week following the crash. Some Okinawans have long viewed the Marines' use of the Osprey in the region with suspicion, citing the aircraft's checkered safety record in its early years of development. "It is very important for Japanese citizens to understand and share our utmost confidence in the safety and reliability of the MV-22, or we would not continue flight operations," Nicholson said at the time. "It is equally important that we ensure our pilots have every opportunity to conduct training, which allows us to remain proficient, and enable us to respond when most needed in support of the alliance," he added. According to III MEF officials, work to salvage the burned wreckage of the CH-53 continues in concert with the government of Japan and local officials. "We will continue to share information with the government of Japan as details become available and in accordance with the Status of Forces Agreement," they said in a statement. -- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck. With two Navy destroyers sidelined for massive repairs after deadly collisions in the Pacific this summer, the service is "surging" the deployment of a guided-missile cruiser and moving another destroyer into the Pacific to meet operational needs. The Norfolk-based cruiser Monterey deployed Monday, bound for the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation. The ship will take the place of the Pearl Harbor-based destroyer O'Kane, which will then deploy to the 7th Fleet area of operations, covering the Pacific, later this year, Lt. Cmdr. Courtney Hillson, a spokeswoman for Naval Surface Forces Atlantic, told Military.com. The surge deployment was first reported by USNI News. Crucially, the collisions that damaged the destroyer Fitzgerald in June and the destroyer John S. McCain in August reduced the number of forward-deployed ships in the Pacific equipped with Aegis ballistic missile defense capabilities. With North Korea's aggressive missile-testing program continuing to intensify and regular threats of war, the Navy's BMD equipment set is more in the spotlight than ever. In April, the head of U.S. Pacific Command, Adm. Harry Harris, touted the Navy's abilities in a congressional hearing as North Korea circulated threats of turning the deployed carrier Carl Vinson into a "sea wreck." "If it flies, it will die," Harris said. The move to surge the Monterey years ahead of its next scheduled deployment will allow the BMD-capable O'Kane to meet operational needs in the Pacific. It also is the first time a ship has been surged under the Navy's new Optimized Fleet Response Plan, Hillson said. The OFRP, as it's called, was introduced in fiscal 2015 to improve maintenance, training and deployment schedules in hopes of eliminating long deployment extensions, maintenance backlogs, and other problems that stress ships and sailors. Under the plan, carrier strike group assets fit into a 36-month training and deployment cycle, with seven-month deployments standard across the fleet. The plan also allows leaders to see which ships, if called upon, can be surged to meet operational needs. The Monterey returned from its most recent deployment in January, Hillson said, and was identified as available to meet surge needs. "I am inspired and motivated by the crew of USS Monterey. I could not be more proud and honored to serve with this crew," Capt. Dave Stoner, Monterey's commanding officer, said in a statement. "The effort and skills demonstrated over the last two months is a testament to the strength and abilities of this crew." While the O'Kane, when it deploys, will be one additional destroyer in the region with two sidelined, the calculus for determining the Navy's operational needs is more complex than replacing one ship with another, said Lt. Cmdr. Nicole Schwegman, a spokeswoman for U.S. Pacific Fleet. "It's not always just a one-for-one replacement, because there are other assets that can do the mission that the McCain and Fitzgerald were able to do," she said. With the McCain and Fitzgerald sidelined, the Navy considered itself still able to meet its mission in the Pacific, she said. The deployment speaks to evolving operational needs. And, Schwegman said, it's possible the Navy will call for more assets in the region if needs change again. "Our requirements changed, and we needed some additional capacity," she said. "We constantly assess where we need capability and capacity around the world." Editor's Note: The 10th paragraph originally referenced out-of-date Navy information regarding standard deployment length under OFRP. It has been corrected to reflect the current seven-month deployment standard across the fleet. -- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck. Volvo has officially reinvented its Polestar performance brand into its new "standalone electric performance brand" as the company moves forward with its all-electric future. The Chinese-owned Swedish automaker made the announcement and released a collection of photos of the re-branded Polestar on Tuesday, Oct. 17. Volvo said the Polestar 1, due out in mid-2019, will be built at the new Polestar Production Centre in Chengdu, China. The plant is currently under construction and is expected to be complete by mid-2018. "Polestar 1 is the first car to carry the Polestar on the bonnet. A beautiful GT with amazing technology packed into it - a great start for our new Polestar brand," Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO, said in a release. "All future cars from Polestar will feature a fully electric drivetrain, delivering on our brand vision of being the new standalone electric performance brand." The two-door Polestar 1 Grand Tourer Coupe will make 600 horsepower with its "electric performance hybrid drivetrain." The Polestar 1 will have a range of just less than 100 miles on its electric output alone, which makes it "the longest full electric range of any hybrid car on the market." "Polestar 1 is the world's first car to be fitted with the all-new class-leading Ohlins Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension (CESi) advanced chassis technology," Volvo writes in the release. "A carbon fibre body reduces bodyweight and improves torsional stiffness by 45%, as well as lowering the cars' centre of gravity. Additionally, Polestar 1 uses a double electric rear axle which enables torque vectoring. "This supports the driver with precise acceleration on each wheel to keep the maximum road grip and maintain speed while cornering." For those interested in how to get their hands on one of these when they come out, Volvo says they will move away from the traditional automaker-dealership model. The automaker reports the Polestar 1 will be sold entirely online and will come with either a two or three-year subscription basis. Back in July, Volvo announced plans to become the first major automaker to skip traditional engines and produce electric motors for all of its models starting in 2019. Volvo said it hopes to sell 1 million electrified cars by 2025, with a wide range of models that incorporate fully electric and hybrid engines. The 90-year-old automaker described its announcement as "one of the most significant moves by any car maker." "If any automaker can manage the move to all-electric, it's Volvo. The size of the company, number of platforms and price point of their cars means they can do this more effectively than almost anyone else," Brian Moody, executive editor of Autotrader, said in an emailed statement in July. "EVs are becoming more mainstream, the timing couldn't be better." Starting in 2019 and 2021, the automaker will launch five fully electric cars. Each of these will be boosted by a range of petrol and diesel plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid 48-volt options, Volvo said in its initial announcement. All of Polestar's future models will have a fully electric powertrain, and the Polestar 2 production will start in late-2019. The second vehicle from Polestar will be the first battery-electric vehicle from Volvo when it is released. Another Kmart in Michigan will close in coming months "due to a change in business circumstances," according to documents filed with the state. The store is located at 22801 Harper in St. Clair Shores, northeast of Detroit in Macomb County. The 122,140-square-foot store has been listed for lease since spring, signaling that the closing was possible. Sears Holdings Inc. has not released information on the closing, which was announced to the state of Michigan in a letter dated October 3. "The entire store will close," according to Mike Smith, regional director for Kmart human resources. Layoffs will begin January 7, 2018, Smith said. The affected employees include the store general manager, two assistant managers, a loss prevention manager, 28 checkout associates and four service desk associates, along with dozens of people in stocking roles. This closing brings the announced Kmart closings in Michigan to 19 in 2017. Three closings Two closings Three closings Ten closings Sears Holdings also is closing under-performing Sears stores. The most recent Kmart closing appears to come via Seritage Growth Properties, the real estate trust set up as owner of the Kmart and Sears portfolio. It owns 10 stores in Michigan, including the St. Clair Shores store. Seritage is actively marketing Sears and Kmart stores that it owns. The REIT's agreement with Sears Holdings allows for a "recapture" of its stores leased to Sears or Kmart, in amounts ranging from 50 percent to the full store. That recapture is a move to diversify its portfolio, since about 80 percent of it is home to either Sears or Kmart stores. Sears Holdings, meanwhile, has struggled for several years in a changing retail landscape. Amid store closings and refocusing in-store experiences, the value of the stock hit a 52-week low in mid-October. The company is now valued at $602 million as it heads into the holiday shopping season. One reason for the stock slide, according to experts: Board member Bruce Berkowitz, whose company owns 27 percent of the company, is resigning later this month. Air India State run Air India (AI), which has debt of over Rs 50,000 crore, will not be sold as a single unit, sources close to the development said. Sources, who did not wish to be identified, said that each business of AI will be put out for sale as an independent unit, free from the overall debt. The public carrier's finances have been bleeding after its merger with Indian Airlines in 2007 brought more loses than anticipated profits. The government had set up a ministerial committee, headed by finance minister Arun Jaitley, to suggest ways for divesting the airline. After the Union cabinet gave in-principle approval for the divestment process, companies such as IndiGo (India's largest private sector airline), the Bird group and Tata Sons showed interest in purchasing separate businesses of AI. Also read: Stiff norms, big names at Air India divestment transaction advisor pre-bid meet While IndiGo wants to leverage on Air Indias international business, Tata Sons's group preferred to take back the airlines it began in 1930s. Sources said that despite mounting debt, AI had enough buyers due to its strong foundation. The date for finalising the divestment process has not been fixed, said the sources, adding that the public carrier would be sold to domestic buyers with individual, profit generating, business arms. The government has already invited bids for appointment of legal and financial advisors to take the process forward, while asset valuation of AI began in September. AIs five subsidiaries include Air India Express Limited (AIEL), Air India Air Transport Service Limited (AIATSL), Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL), Airline Allied Service Ltd (AASL) and Hotel Corporation of India (HCI). It also has a joint-venture with Singapore Air Transport Services (SATS) called AISATS. In a major consolidation move in US generic industry - Amneal Pharmaceuticals and Impax Laboratories on Tuesday said they have agreed to merge in an all-stock deal. As a result of the transaction, Amneal will own approximately 75 percent and Impax shareholders will own approximately 25 percent in the combined company. The combined entity will retain the name Amneal Pharmaceuticals, will have generics business that will rank as the fifth largest in the US by gross revenue, edging past India generic drug maker Sun Pharma. While the New Jersey-based privately held generic maker Amneal was founded by two Indian-American brothers Chirag Patel and Chintu Patel in 1987, the California-based Impax - listed on New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) was founded in 1995 is largely into specialty drugs. The combined company is expected to have 2018 pro forma adjusted EBITDA of approximately USD 700 million to USD 750 million, which includes expected significant cost savings within the first full year of close, the joint press release of Amneal and Impax said. The combined company is expected to have 2017 pro forma net revenue ranging from USD 1.75 billion to USD 1.85 billion and pro forma adjusted EBITDA of approximately USD 600 million to USD 650 million in 2017 and USD 700 million to USD 750 million in 2018, each including USD 80 million to USD 120 million of annualized cost savings within the first full year of close. Sun Pharma, the fifth-largest generics maker, clocked USD 2 billion in sales in FY17. Given that the company is facing headwinds in the US generics market, the revenues expected to be lower than the previous year's. The significant cash flow generated will enable Amneal Pharmaceuticals to pay down debt, while also continuing to invest in R&D and high-growth specialty assets. The merged entity will have a generics portfolio with approximately 165 differentiated product families marketed in all dosage forms. The combined company will hold leadership position in a significant number of its marketed products. The combination is expected to create one of the largest generic pipelines in the US, with approximately 150 pending ANDAs and 165 projects in active stages of development. Nearly half of all pipeline products are exclusive first-to-file, first-to-market or other high-value opportunities with three or fewer competitors estimated at the time of launch. The combination also adds a foundation for commercial entry into biosimilars with two in-licensed products, one filed and one near-term filing opportunity in development. The combined company will include Impaxs high-margin specialty franchise, which is expected to provide stable cash flow and long-term growth through its innovative platform of products targeting CNS disorders, anti-parasitic infections and other select specialty therapeutic areas. This transaction combines the complementary strengths of both Amneal and Impax to create an even stronger company with the diversification, capabilities and resources to deliver enhanced value for patients, new opportunities for our collective employees and increased growth and value creation for shareholders, said Chirag Patel, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Chairman of Amneal. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More With reference to the earlier letter dated October 13, 2017, HCL Infosystems Ltd has now informed BSE that a meeting of the Rights Issue Committee of the Board of the Company is scheduled to be held on October 20, 2017 to consider the following: 1. Consider Rights Issue size, fix the Rights Issue price and ratio for rights entitlements; 2. Fix the record date for the purpose of Rights Issue. At 12:04 hrs HCL Infosystems was quoting at Rs 48.45, up Rs 0.15, or 0.31 percent. The share touched its 52-week high Rs 64.85 and 52-week low Rs 39.20 on 25 January, 2017 and 21 November, 2016, respectively.Currently, it is trading 25.29 percent below its 52-week high and 23.6 percent above its 52-week low.Market capitalisation stands at Rs 1,080.43 crore. Source : BSE Read More live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More In continuation to our letter dated September 4, 2017, please find enclosed the press release titled "Infosys to Announce Second Quarter Results on October 24, 2017". At 09:55 hrs Infosys was quoting at Rs 932.55, down Rs 6.75, or 0.72 percent. The share touched its 52-week high Rs 1,049.95 and 52-week low Rs 861.50 on 20 October, 2016 and 22 August, 2017, respectively.Currently, it is trading 11.18 percent below its 52-week high and 8.25 percent above its 52-week low.Market capitalisation stands at Rs 214,201.57 crore. Source : BSE Read More live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Pursuant to Regulation 29 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, we write to advise you that a Meeting of the Board of Directors of the Company is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, 7th November, 2017, inter alia, to consider and approve the Unaudited Financial Results for the quarter and half year ending 30th September, 2017, prepared in terms of Regulation 33 of the said Regulation. We are arranging to publish shortly the Notice for the aforesaid date of the Board Meeting in all the editions of Business Standard, a national newspaper in English and in Aajkal, Kolkata Edition in Bengali as required under Regulation 47 of the said Regulations.Further, as per the Company's Code of Conduct for Prohibition of Insider Trading framed pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015, the Trading Window for dealing in the securities of the Company will be closed for all the Directors / Officers / Designated Employees and Connected Persons of the Company from 27th October, 2017 to 8th November, 2017 (both days inclusive) in view of consideration of Unaudited Financial Results for the quarter and half year ending 30th September, 2017.Source : BSE Read More Ashwani Gujral of ashwanigujral.com told CNBC-TV18, "JM Financial has broken out again yesterday, so this is now the outperforming broker dealer. This is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 180, target of Rs 208. Bharti Airtel has come out of a multi-year highs. So this is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 448, target of Rs 470." "Jubilant Foodworks is looking like it is resuming its uptrend. That is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 1,535, target of Rs 1,580. Century Plyboards again corrected to Rs 200 and now moving higher. This is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 270, target of Rs 285." "Yesterday the best performing gas stock was Gujarat Gas. That is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 926, target of Rs 960. Federal Bank is the easier chart. I think it should head now towards Rs 135-140." "Colgate Palmolive is not the best performing FMCG. Hindustan Unilever, etc. are much better stocks on the FMCG list. But I will not buy bad results on Colgate, I will probably go with good results on Federal Bank," he said. "I was looking at this Aries Agro. That is getting out of a multi-year high, so that is something people should look at. It should have another good day today. It was up 20 percent yesterday." "The 50-day moving average on Bajaj Finance is about Rs 1,820-1,830. So if you get those levels, I think it would be a good idea to start buying. Federal Bank, basically went down as low as Rs 100 in the previous consolidation. So just a simple math leads you to about Rs 140-145," he added. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will soon take a call on methodology for allocation of coal blocks for commercial mining, a top official has said. The comments come amid some of the power producers facing low coal stocks at their plants. "The CCEA note (on methodology of commercial coal mining) is ready. I think in the next one week or 10 days it should come in the Cabinet," Coal Secretary Susheel Kumar told PTI. A discussion paper on the modalities for allocation of coal mines through auction route was earlier placed in the public domain for seeking comments of stakeholders. "We have already received comments of stakeholders," Kumar asserted. The government, he said, plans to put under the hammer around 5-6 coal blocks for commercial mining by private players. "Five to six mines will be auctioned under commercial mining," the Secretary said. Coal Minister Piyush Goyal had said earlier this year that enabling provisions have been made in the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 for allocation of coal mines by way of auction and allotment for the sale of coal. Commercial mines are alloted without specifying the end use and allow private entities to sell the fuel to buyers across sectors such as power, cement and steel. India is in the process of throwing open commercial coal mining to private firms for the first time in four decades, with the aim of shifting the world's third-biggest coal importer towards energy self-sufficiency. The government had earlier said that opening up of commercial coal mining to private companies will bring in competition in the coal sector and will reduce power tariff. The government had said it wants to convey to potential investors that sustainable and efficient mining, not revenue maximisation, is the idea behind commercial coal auction. Snowman Logistics is on radar after the news that it will provide logistics service for IKEA's food business. In an interview to CNBC-TV18, Sunil Nair, CEO of Snowman Logistics spoke at length about the agreement and gave his outlook for the future. The whole arrangement is pan India basis, so wherever they open stores, we will be managing their complete backend, said Nair. He further said that IKEA will be around 4-5 percent of revenue by 2020. "We had leadership change completely around 18 months back and then demonetisation impacted us and now goods and services tax (GST). We hope there is nothing else going to come up. Things have already started looking up from client side, business side and numbers are also looking better now. So 2019 is going to be much better than what we experienced last couple of years," he said. We have set a target of 20-25 percent growth in terms of topline and bottomline, Nair added. Indian airline industry has been growing at a consistent pace. The domestic passenger traffic is doubling almost every five years. It has grown from 2.3 crore passengers in 2005 to 5.1 crore in 2010 and now it stands at nearly 10 crore in 2016. According to Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) data, this makes India the third largest domestic air market in the world. The organisation also predicted that the domestic air traffic will cross 13 crore in the current financial year. However, the question is, are Indian airlines capable of handling the surging traffic efficiently? If we look at data released by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for the year 2017 (until August), one-fourth of all the flights ran late and almost 5 percent of the flights got cancelled. In the first eight months for which data is available, nearly 10 lakh passengers have been affected as airlines have denied boarding, cancelled flights or flights were delayed by more than two hours. Punctuality About 24 percent of the flights run by Indian domestic carriers are never on time. Almost all the major airlines performed more or less the same. The best on-time performance has been of IndiGo with a rate of 83 percent. The worst among the major airlines is Jet Airways (data includes JetLites performance) with only 70 percent of the flights being on time. Air India follows Jet Airways with an on-time rate of 71 percent. Also Read: Air India to be sold in parts; each business may go to different buyers Among the first eight months, the worst was January with only 62 percent of the flights being on time, expectedly, as flights get delayed due to low visibility especially on North Indian airports. Interestingly, the data will look even worse at the year-end with winters yet to come. The overall number will take further dive as in coming months airports will face same, age-old problemdense fog. By now, only three airports in the countryDelhi, Jaipur and Lucknowhave CAT-IIIB level instrument landing system (ILS Category-IIIB). This means that these airports can handle aircrafts landing with less than 50-metre visibility, at least theoretically. However, most pilots flying on domestic routes are not trained to land with this system. Airlines avoid the training as it is expensive, costing Rs 10 lakh per pilot. Triple whammy Passengers are not only marred by late flights but cancellation and boarding being denied due to various reasons also create problems for lakhs of passengers. In the first eight months, almost 10 lakh passengers were affected due to these reasons. Over 16,600 passengers were denied boarding by airlines operating in the country. Among the major airlines, Jet Airways, with 14,104 passengers, denied the maximum number of passengers to board the aircraft. Whereas, Air India and SpiceJet denied 2,054 and 293 passengers, respectively. IndiGo denied just three passengers as per submitted data. Close to 1.1 lakh passengers were affected due to flights getting cancelled. Passengers of IndiGo, which has the largest market share among domestic carriers, were the most affected lot because of cancellations. Nearly 43,000 IndiGo passengers suffered, whereas, for SpiceJet and Air India, the numbers were 2,609 passengers and 21,538 passengers, respectively. Interestingly, flights getting cancelled is not seasonal as it would be expected. Except in April and February, each month, the number of affected passengers was more than 10,000; January topping with 20,010 passengers. A whopping 8 lakh passengers were affected in first eight months due to flights being late by more than two hours. IndiGo and Air India topped the chart with accounting for more than 2.5 lakh affected passengers each. No surprises here as January and February were two of the worst months of massive delays being reported. Costly affair The inefficiency in services not just affects passengers but also air carriers. They not only lose credibility but also have to pay a hefty amount as compensation and towards providing facilities to affected passengers. In first eight months, airlines have already spent Rs 34 crore towards compensation and facilities. Carriers paid Rs 22.7 crore to compensate the passengers which were denied boarding, translating into an average of Rs 13.66 thousand per passenger. Airlines also incurred expenses of Rs 4.15 crore towards facilities and compensation for passengers whose flights got cancelled and Rs 7.13 crore towards passengers whose flights got delayed by more than two hours. It is high-time, the air carriers along with authorities running the industry in India start working towards providing better services or else passengers, as well as airlines, will keep bleeding money and, more importantly, time. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Moneycontrol Research Fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) segment has been witnessing a steady disruption on account of competition from both listed and unlisted companies. Colgate Palmolive (India), caught in this crossfire, has recently attempted to claw back its market share. Its subdued volume growth doesnt look too encouraging either. Given this context, Colgates quarterly results can be seen as one of the most awaited earnings updates. Quarterly result: Muted topline growth In Q2 FY18, Colgate posted a muted sales growth of 3 percent YoY aided by pricing effects and offset by weak volumes (-0.9 percent YoY). Gross margins (+40 bps YoY) benefitted from a subdued increase in raw material prices. EBITDA margins expanded by 170 bps wherein higher employee costs (+13 percent YoY) were more than compensated for by lower advertisement spend (11.0 percent of sales vs. 12.1 percent of sales in Q2 2017) and a curtailment in other expenses. Lower promotional spending is surprising In recent times, Colgate has been positioning for the ayurvedic segment of toothpaste to resurrect its market leadership. It had recently launched a premium variant of Cibaca Vedshakti, Colgate Swarna Vedshakti, in the southern parts of India. Given its intent to create an improved natural portfolio, lower advertising spend from the company (-7 percent YoY) was below our expectations. Lower volumes point towards further contraction in market share Interestingly, Colgate has been a beneficiary of GST rates (18 percent vs 25 percent earlier), on account of which the company had reduced prices (~9 percent) recently for both toothpaste and tooth brush categories. However, inspite of such steps, the lower volume indicates further deterioration in the companys market share. It has reportedly been impacted by disruption in wholesale channel. As per industry sources, in the first half of 2017, market share for Colgate stood at 52.4 percent (vs. 55.1 percent in FY17). While Dabur has gained from 10.8 percent (CY 2014) to 12.2 percent. As we earlier briefed, the big disruptor has been Patanjali which had gained market share from 0.6 percent (CY 2014) to about 6 percent now. This figure doesnt factor in sales from Patanjalis own stores. While stock has recently corrected from the all-time high by about 10 percent, 12m forward PE multiple is still elevated in our view. The falling market share for this single product category company keeps us concerned and we prefer to wait on the sidelines before we see any definitive signs of improvement. Follow @anubhavsays For more research articles, visit our Moneycontrol Research Page. 3:30 pm Market Closing: Equity benchmarks closed flat after consolidation but Nifty managed to end at record closing high. The 30-share BSE Sensex was down 24.48 points at 32,609.16 and the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 3.60 points to 10,234.50. The market breadth was almost balanced as about 1,367 shares advanced against 1,301 declining shares on the BSE. Cipla, Bharti Airtel, Asian Paints, Bajaj Auto, Hero Motocorp, BPCL, HPCL and Indiabulls Housing were top gainers, up 1-4 percent whereas Axis Bank, Tata Motors, Bajaj Finance and Dr Reddy's Labs lost a percent each. 3:25 pm Jio to turn profitable in Q3?: Reliance Jio reported its maiden quarterly results on Friday (October 13). Q2FY18 revenue was Rs 6,150 crore; adding back interconnect income, underlying revenue was Rs 6,550 crore, which implies an estimated 13-14 percent revenue market share [RMS] for Q2. Jio 'operationalised' its 4G mobile assets starting 1st July; these amounted to 71 percent of its Rs 2,07,600 crore gross asset base as of end-Q2. Thanks to significant opex capitalisation pertaining largely to non-mobile asssets, and an unconventional depreciation & amortisation policy, Jio was EBIT positive in Q2 and reported a modest Rs 270 crore net loss. JM Financial expects Jio to swing to profits in Q3, driven by the 57 percent IUC (interconnection usage charge) cut to 6 paise per min from 14 paise, effective October 1. 3:15 pm Demand for petrol & diesel to bring under GST: Former Union Minister S Jaipal Reddy today said petrol and diesel should be brought under the ambit of Goods and Services Tax (GST) for better "predictability" of prices. Echoing views expressed by Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas earlier, Reddy said state governments should reduce their VAT on the fossil fuel. "I support the demand that the state government(s) must also decrease their tax. But while increasing their own tax and increasing the rate, they (the Centre) is trying to pass on the burden or blame to the states," Reddy, a former Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, told reporters. Pradhan had earlier indicated that he was requesting the Finance Minister and GST Council to bring petrol and diesel under the GST purview. Pradhan had recently urged all states to reduce VAT on the fuel in their respective states so as to bring down the prices. 3:10 pm Market Check: Equity benchmarks continued to consolidate after the Nifty hitting a fresh record high. The 30-share BSE Sensex was down 40.42 points at 32,593.22 and the 50-share NSE Nifty fell 1.60 points to 10,229.30. The market breadth remained positive as about 1,319 shares advanced against 1,252 declining shares on the BSE. 2:59 pm Management Interview: Private sector lender Federal Bank's second quarter (July-September) earnings beat analysts' expectations as profit for the quarter grew by 31.1 percent year-on-year to Rs 263.7 crore. The growth was driven by higher net interest income and operating profit. Sharing more details on the performance of Q2 and the outlook going forward Shyam Srinivasan, MD & CEO, Federal Bank said the bank saw growth across various sectors in the quarter gone by. He said the credit growth was steady in last 4-5 quarters. A 20-25 percent loan growth in FY18 is achievable, he said. The loan book market share has crossed 1 percent of the industry, said Srinivasan. Talking about NCLT cases, he said the bank doesnt have significant exposure to the cases referred to NCLT by RBI. The bank was the first to recognize Videocon as a non-performing asset (NPA), said Srinivasan. He further added the bank did not undertake any large-ticket exposure in corporate book. 2:47 pm Gold ETFs lose: Gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) continued to lose sheen as an investment class as investors pulled out Rs 388 crore from these instruments in April-September 2017. Trading in gold ETF segment has been tepid during the last four financial years. It witnessed outflows of Rs 775 crore in 2016-17, Rs 903 crore in 2015-16, Rs 1,475 crore in 2014-15 and Rs 2,293 crore in 2013-14. On the other hand, equity and equity-linked saving scheme (ELSS) saw an infusion of more than Rs 80,000 crore during the first six months (April-September) of the current financial year. This included an investment of close to Rs 19,000 crore in the last month alone. Stock markets have been on an upswing, touching new highs this year. 2:38 pm Earnings Poll: Software firm Wipro is expected to report dollar revenue at USD 2,020 million for quarter ended September 2017, up 2.4 percent over previous quarter. Revenue growth in constant currency terms may be at around 0.9 percent for the quarter. While announcing first quarter earnings, the company had estimated revenue growth in constant currency terms at 0.5-1.5 percent at USD 1,962-2,001 million due to pressure in healthcare vertical and sluggishness in communications and retail. Growth may be aided by large deal ramp-ups in the BFS vertical. 2:24 pm Coal auction: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will soon take a call on methodology for allocation of coal blocks for commercial mining, a top official has said. The comments come amid some of the power producers facing low coal stocks at their plants. "The CCEA note (on methodology of commercial coal mining) is ready. I think in the next one week or 10 days it should come in the Cabinet," Coal Secretary Susheel Kumar told PTI. A discussion paper on the modalities for allocation of coal mines through auction route was earlier placed in the public domain for seeking comments of stakeholders. 2:14 pm Earnings: Private sector ICICI Lombard General Insurance today reported a 19.3 percent increase in net profit at Rs 204.04 crore for the quarter ended September. A subsidiary of ICICI Bank, the general insurance firm had earned a profit of Rs 170.95 crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal. Total income also rose to Rs 2,098.05 crore for the quarter, from Rs 1,948.31 crore in the year-ago period, ICICI Lombard General Insurance said in a filing to stock exchanges. This is the first quarterly result of the company after going public last month. 2:00 pm Buzzing: Delhi-based HT Media has recorded a whopping 52 percent growth year-on-year in consolidated profit at Rs 77.8 crore for the quarter ended September 2017, backed by strong operational performance. Consolidated revenue during the quarter fell 6.9 percent to Rs 560.6 crore compared with Rs 602.2 crore in same quarter last fiscal. EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) shot up 107.3 percent year-on-year to Rs 104.5 crore and margin expanded sharply by 1,020 basis points to 18.6 percent in July-September quarter. The stock price was quoting at Rs 104.00, up Rs 8.20, or 8.56 percent amid high volumes on the BSE. 1:50 pm Earnings Estimates: Axis Bank is expected to report profit at Rs 1,298.7 crore for the quarter ended September 2017, a whopping 307 percent growth over Rs 319.1 crore in same quarter last fiscal. In year-ago quarter, profitability was impacted by higher provisions. On sequential basis, profit is expected to decline 0.5 percent. According to average of estimates of analysts polled by CNBC-TV18, net interest income is seen rising 5 percent to Rs 4,741 crore from Rs Rs 4,513.9 crore year-on-year. 1:40 pm Nomura on WPI: WPI inflation is expected to moderate further in the coming months, and is likely to average 2.8 percent in 2018, says a Nomura report. According to the Japanese financial services major, a moderation in WPI inflation in the coming months is likely owing to falling vegetable prices and favourable base effects. "Looking ahead, with food prices (vegetables) falling further in recent weeks and favourable base effects on fuel inflation until January 2018, we expect WPI inflation to moderate further in the coming months, before stabilising," Nomura said in a research note. Nomura expects WPI inflation to average 2.8 percent year-on-year in 2018 from 3.1 percent in 2017. According to the official data, wholesale inflation fell to 2.60 percent in September from 3.24 percent in Auguat as prices of food articles, led by vegetables, softened. 1:27 pm Investment in KG-D6 block: Reliance Industries and its partner BP Plc of the UK will invest about USD 1.5 billion to bring to production six satellite gas discoveries in the flagging KG-D6 block by 2022. RIL-BP combine yesterday submitted to the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) a field development plan for what are known as satellite and other satellite fields, sources with direct knowledge of development said. They plan to develop four deepsea satellite gas finds, named D-2, 6, 19 and 22, together with two other nearby finds, D-29 and D30, in the Krishna Godavari basin block. In all, 5-6 gas producing wells will be drilled and tied to production facilities, they said adding peak output may be in the range of 10 to 12 million standard cubic meters per day. Disclosure: Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd. 1:17 pm Earnings: Two-wheeler maker Bajaj Auto's second quarter profit fell 0.6 percent to Rs 1,193.58 crore compared with Rs 1,200.72 crore year-ago quarter. Revenue from operations grew by 2 percent to Rs 6,566.4 crore compared with Rs 6,432.3 crore in same quarter last fiscal. The stock price was quoting at Rs 3,295.00, up Rs 73.20, or 2.27 percent after hitting a record high of Rs 3,310.20 per share. 1:05 pm Buzzing: Shares of Snowman Logistics gained around 9 percent intraday as investors cheered a decision of partnering with a global furniture chain. According to a report on CNBC-TV18, the company partnered with IKEA to manage in-store restaurant business in India. 12:59 pm Maruti in focus: Maruti Suzuki Dzire sustained the 1st spot in the list of the most selling car of India in September 2017 with 34,305 units sold, this is also the highest ever sales of Dzire in a single month. Last month, Maruti Suzuki sold 30,934 units of Dzire. Introduced this May the 2017 Dzire is the third generation of Maruti Suzuki Dzire which used to have Swift Moniker before its name. At a base price tag of RS 5.45 lakh for the petrol variant, Maruti Suzuki already had 33,000 bookings for the new Dzire before the launch. Overall Maruti Suzuki recorded 9.3% sales growth in September 2017 with 1.63 lakh units sold. The new Dzire played a major role for the company to get a big market share on sub-4 meter sedan market. Available in 14 variants, Dzire ranges from Rs 5.43 lakh up to Rs 9.39 lakh. 12:45 pm Market Check: Benchmark indices turned negative in the afternoon, but the Nifty still traded above 10,200-levels. The Sensex was down 38.68 points at 32594.96, while the Nifty was down 5.00 points at 10225.90. The market breadth was narrow as 1,239 shares advanced against a decline of 1,152 shares, while 116 shares were unchanged. Bharti Airtel, Indiabulls Housing, BPCL and Hero MotoCorp gained the most on both indices, while Tata Steel, HDFC Bank and Religare Enterprises fell the most. 12:30 pm Buzzing stock: Share price of Colgate Palmolive has declined further on Tuesday on the back of poor numbers announced by the company on October 16 for the quarter ended September 2017. The company has reported a fall of 2 percent in its September quarter net profit at Rs 177.6 crore against Rs 181.3 crore during the same period last year. The companys revenue, however, grew 2.7 percent at Rs 1,085 crore against Rs 1,056.6 crore during the same period in the previous year. 12:10 pm Management Speak: Prime Focus is surging in trade, up over 19 percent. In an interview to CNBC-TV18, Namit Malhotra, Executive Chairman of Prime Focus spoke about the latest happenings and his outlook going ahead. We believe revenue and EBITDA will grow at a higher rate going ahead, said Malhotra. Talking about debt, he said net debt as of March is in the range of Rs 1,250 crore. Therefore, we continued focus on paring and re-financing the debt, he added. 11:53 am Market Check: Equity benchmarks recouped early losses, with the Nifty hitting a fresh record high of 10,251.85 amid volatility. The 30-share BSE Sensex was up 16.63 points at 32,650.27 and the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 12.80 points to 10,243.70. Nifty Bank gained 60 points, backed by Yes Bank, Federal Bank, PNB, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, Axis Bank, SBI and ICICI Bank. The BSE Midcap index was up 0.3 percent and Smallcap rose 0.5 percent. About 1,282 shares advanced against 1,037 declining shares on the BSE. 11:46 am Foreign Reserves: India's foreign reserves, which touched a record USD 402.5 billion in September, are high enough to cushion the country against the external vulnerabilities, the Development Bank of Singapore (DBS) said today. The import cover (on total reserves minus gold) is better than what is seen during the 2013 taper tantrum, said DBS in its report on Indian economy. Taper tantrum is the term used to refer to the 2013 surge in the US Treasury yields, which resulted from the Federal Reserve's use of tapering to gradually reduce the amount of money it was feeding into the economy. It had sent the rupee reeling. The record high reserve of USD 402.5 billion in September 2017 is a long way since reserves bottomed out at USD 275 billion in August 2013, at the worst point of the Fed taper tantrum, it pointed out. 11:35 am Buzzing: Shares of Aurobindo Pharma rose 2 percent intraday as the company has received final approval to manufacture Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-release capsules. The company has received final approval from the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) to manufacture Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-Release Capsules OTC, 20mg. Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-Release Capsules OTC is a therapeutic equivalent generic version of AstraZeneca's Nexium 24HR capsules. Nexium 24HR capsules are indicated to treat frequent heartburn and the product will be launched immediately. 11:22 am Listing: Non-banking finance company MAS Financial Services is set to debut on exchanges on October 18. The issue price is fixed at higher end of price band of Rs 456-459 per share. Analysts expect the stock to list with a premium of Rs 150-200, given the strong subscription to the issue and strong financials of the company. The Rs 460-crore initial share sale offer had received overwhelming response from investors as it was oversubscribed 128.39 times on last Tuesday. 11:18 am Buzzing: Share price of Hatsun Agro Products added nearly 4 percent intraday on the back of robust September quarter (Q2FY18) numbers. The company has reported 17 percent jump in its Q2 net profit at Rs 38.21 crore against Rs 32.56 crore, in the same quarter last fiscal. Revenue was up 6 percent at Rs 1066 crore versus Rs 1001 crore. The company's Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) was up 16 percent at Rs 105.6 crore and margins was up at 9.9 percent. The company has invested Rs 60 crore to expand its cattle feed production plant in Tamil Nadu. 11:10 am Jio Results Analysis: Analysts were closely watching out for two key data points in Reliance Industries September earnings. One was the gross refining margin and the other was the losses in its telecom subsidiary Jio. The company met market expectations on refining margins but positively surprised the market by posting a profit at the earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) level in its telecom operations. Since its launch in September 2016, it was for the first time that Jios financial numbers were made public. Jio, a late entrant in the telecom space, took the sector by storm with tariff rates way below competition. The aggressive pricing helped the company build a customer base of 138.6 million users within a year. Surprisingly, despite the aggressive pricing, Reliance has been able to post average revenue per user (ARPU) of Rs 156.4 as compared to Rs 154 of market leader Bharti Airtel. The management is confident of improving its ARPU further, which will help the company report profits sooner than most analysts expect. For the September quarter, Jio reported revenues of Rs 6,147 crore and a marginal loss of Rs 270.59 crore. The company posted an operating profit of Rs 1,443 crore at an operating margin of 23.5 percent. 11:00 am Gold Options Trading: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today launched gold options trading on the leading commodity bourse MCX and said this is one of the steps towards formalising trade in the yellow metal. Options are derivatives which give a buyer the right but not the obligation to buy or sell an underlying asset or instrument at a specific price on or before a certain date. "This marks a very important evolution in trading of yellow metal itself. It hedges all risks by giving them (traders) the option of futures," Jaitley said after launching the options trade on the auspicious day of Dhanteras today. The gold options contract launched today allows trading in 1kg gold. 10:52 am Prime Focus in action: Motilal Oswal has initiated coverage with a buy rating on Prime Focus and expects the stock to rally by 46 percent to Rs 130 per share, citing better growth ahead and likely reduction in debt. The stock price was locked at 20 percent upper circuit at Rs 106.95 on Tuesday. Prime Focus has turned into a strong media service player globally, offering visual effects, 3D animation and media-focused ERP solutions in India and abroad. The company turned profitable in FY17 post completion of M&A integration in FY15-16. According to the brokerage house, the four M&A transactions in the last five years have allowed Prime Focus to become a strong media service player globally. The company's position as one of the top-4 Hollywood VFX service providers and a steady order book should drive 15/18 percent revenue/EBITDA CAGR over FY17-20, it feels. Motilal Oswal noted that the demons of around 2.8x jump in net debt to Rs 1,390 crore and 50 percent equity dilution over the last five years are now behind. Improving EBITDA and lower capex requirement are expected to help generate healthy free cash flow, improve return on invested capital to 19 percent, and reduce net debt by around 68 percent to Rs 450 crore by FY20, the research house said. 10:38 am Buzzing: Shares of Godawari Power & Ispat has locked at 5 percent upper circuit on Tuesday as it has received additional coal linkage from Coal India. The company has been awarded additional 28,700 metric tonnes of long-term coal linkage in the coal linkage auction concluded on October 16, 2017 by Coal India to be used in the company's sponge iron unit. The total coal linkage now aggregates to 5,13,400 metric tonnes with this additional quantity of coal linkage awarded to the company. Recently the company has been awarded 52,400 metric tonnes of long-term coal linkage for its Sponge Iron Unit and also got 1,20,400 metric tonnes of coal linkage for its Gassifier unit and 13,900 metric tonnes of coal linkage for its biomass power plant. 10:29 am Rupee Update: The rupee dropped by 15 paise to 64.89 against the US currency today, breaking its six-day winning streak. A spurt in dollar demand from importers amid sustained foreign fund outflows weighed on the rupee. Dealers said the dollar's gains against some other currencies overseas also impacted the domestic currency. Yesterday, the rupee had ended at more than three-week high of 64.74 a dollar, surging by 19 paise helped by extremely bullish macro indicators. 10:20 am Market Check: Equity benchmarks continued to consolidate after the rally in previous three consecutive sessions. The 30-share BSE Sensex was down 67.46 points at 32,566.18 and the 50-share NSE Nifty fell 12.90 points to 10,218. The broader markets outperformed benchmarks, with the BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices rising 0.3 percent each. About 1,093 shares advanced against 903 declining shares on the BSE. 10:12 am SEBI Approval: HDFC Standard Life Insurance Company has received capital markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)'s go ahead to raise an estimated Rs 7,500 crore through an initial public offering. The insurance firm had filed draft papers with SEBI in August and obtained its "observations" on October 13, which is very necessary for any company to launch public offer, latest update with the markets watchdog showed. The public issue comprises sale of 1,91,246,050 equity shares, amounting to 9.55 percent stake, by HDFC Ltd and up to 1,08,581,768 scrips, or 5.42 percent, holding by Standard Life Mauritius, according to the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) filed with Sebi. Currently, HDFC owns 61.41 percent stake in HDFC Standard Life and Standard Life has about 34.86 percent, while the remaining is with employees and PremjiInvest. 9:59 am IPO: Mahindra Group's logistics arm has received the go-ahead from markets regulator Sebi to garner about Rs 700 crore through an initial share-sale offering. Mahindra Logistics had filed its draft red herring prospectus with Sebi on August 4 and obtained "observations" on October 6, which is very important for any company to float a public offer, as per the latest update with Sebi. The public issue of Mahindra Logistics comprises sale of 1,93,32,346 equity shares. This includes the sale of 96,66,173 shares, amounting to 13.74 percent stake, by the parent firm Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. Besides, Normandy Holdings would sell 92,71,180 shares, while Kedara Capital would offload 3,94,993 scrips. Normandy Holdings is a 100 percent subsidiary of Kedaara Capital. 9:50 am Direct US-North Korea talks? The United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang while it continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. "Eventually, we don't rule out the possibility of course of direct talks," Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. "Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst should diplomacy fail," he said. 9:33 am Capex: Sajjan Jindal-controlled, JSW Cement said it is investing around Rs 1,800 crore towards expansion of cement capacity to 20 million tonnes (MT) and looking at initial public offer (IPO) in 2019-20. "We expect huge demand for cement in the country and plan to expand our cement manufacturing capacity from 12.5 MT to 20 MT by 2020. We are adding 4.5 MT at our Dolvi unit in Maharashtra and 1.2 MT in Vijaynagar unit in Karnataka, apart from 1.2 MT adding in Odisha unit. We will incur capex of around Rs 1,800 crore for capacity expansion over the next three years period," JSW Cement managing director Parth Jindal told PTI. "We will come out with IPO in 2019-20 by diluting 15-20 percent stake, depending on price band. We will wait for the outcome of general elections in 2019 and create healthy EBITDA profile before launching our IPO," Jindal said. Post-IPO, according to Jindal, the company will be targeting at reaching 30 MT capacity by 2025 and 50 MT by 2030, both through organic and inorganic growth. Despite JSW Cement is one of the recent entrants into the cement market, it is aiming to be in top-5 cement players in India in the next 7-8 years, Jindal added. 9:25 am Tata Steel ruled out on Monday a flotation in the next two to three years of the planned merger of its European steel operations with those of ThyssenKrupp. T.V. Narendran, Tata's managing director for India and South East Asia, told Reuters that the capacity of Tata's Kalinganagar plant in India would like be expanded to 5 million tonnes. 9:20 am Buzzing: Share price of Jaiprakash Power Ventures has locked at 10 percent upper circuit, testing 52-week high of Rs 8.80 Tuesday as it has received non-binding bids for acquisition of equity stake in the company. There were five bidders who put in non-binding bids for 35 percent equity stake in Jaiprakash Power. Brookfield Asset Management, India Power Corporation, Resurgent Power, a joint venture between Tata Power and ICICI Ventures, JSW Energy in partnership with Piramal and Bain Capital assets have bid for about 35 percent equity stake in Jaiprakash Powers assets, one of the persons directly involved with the development said. Additionally, Edelweiss Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC) too is in the race and has bid for the debt of the sustainable portion of the company 9:15 am Market Check: Equity benchmarks opened mildly lower on profit booking Tuesday after the rally in three consecutive sessions. The 30-share BSE Sensex was down 33.86 points at 32,599.78 and the 50-share NSE Nifty fell 15.10 points to 10,215.80. Axis Bank, Reliance Industries, GAIL, Bajaj Auto, Yes Bank, IOC and Bharti Airtel were early gainers while Wipro, Bajaj Finance and BPCL were losers. DCB Bank, JM Financial and Colgate were down 1.5-2.5 percent. Persistent Systems, Federal Bank, Delta Corp, Radico Khaitan, DHFL, Prime Focus, Aries Agro, Jaiprakash Power and Jaiprakash Associates gained up to 20 percent. The bulls charged on D-Street on the first day of Diwali week. The Nifty made a bullish candle for the third consecutive day in a row on Monday. It made a new record high as it broke out of trading range with buying across segments. The Nifty managed to close above 10200 mark after two and a half months. The Nifty closed at 10,230.8 on Monday. According to Pivot charts, the key support level is placed at 10,189.6, followed by 10,148.4. If the index starts to move higher, key resistance levels to watch out are 10,257.5 and 10,284.2. The Nifty Bank closed at 24,703.1. Important Pivot level, which will act as crucial support for the index, is placed at 24,520.23, followed by 24,337.37. On the upside, key resistance levels are 24,882.33, followed by 25,061.57. The Nifty50 futures on the Singapore Stock Exchange were trading 20 points lower at 10261 indicating a flat to negative opening for the domestic market. According to Technical Analyst Prakash Gaba of prakashgaba.com, the crucial support for the Nifty is at 10150 and the resistance is at 10315-10537. On the other hand, Bank Nifty has support at 25000 and resistance at 24534. Below are the stocks which are top buys today: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries: Indicator Buy | Rating: Buy | Target: Rs 570, stop loss: Rs 536 Tata Motors: Breakout | Rating: Buy | Target: Rs 450, stop loss: Rs 428 "Asian Paints look good to me. Looks like the way it is trading, the stock can climb up to levels closer to Rs 1,220-1,230 zones. That is a possibility, it can go up there." "I also like BPCL. It certainly is looking good to me. The way it is trading, looks like it is heading to levels closer to around Rs 520-530 zones. It is a matter of time there, keep stop loss below Rs 495." : The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on moneycontrol.com are their own, and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. Aruna Gokhale (L), 81, watches as her husband Vidyadhar Gokhale, 84, plays guitar in their flat at the Athashri retirement village in Baner, on the outskirts of the western Indian city of Pune, June 18, 2013. The Athashri retirement community offers the over-55 crowd Western-style amenities such as a clubhouse, gym, library and pool but with a distinctly Indian twist: a temple on site where residents worship Ganesh, the elephant-headed god followed by many Hindus in Maharashtra state. The 180-unit development in the city of Pune, which enjoys better weather and less bustle than nearby Mumbai, overlooks open fields and hills and is set in lush gardens - an appealing escape from the crowds and grime of India's mega-cities. Picture taken June 18, 2013. REUTERS/Danish Siddiqui (INDIA - Tags: SOCIETY) - RTX113ZH Kulin Patel As per the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission, the central government increased the gratuity ceiling applicable to central government employees to Rs 20 lakh (Rs 2 million) in 2016. Earlier this week, the cabinet approved a bill which proposes a similar amendment for non-central government employees. The bill is likely to be tabled in the next session of Parliament and will look to increase the gratuity ceiling to the Payment of Gratuity Act (PG Act) [1] itself. The current limit is Rs 10 lakh (Rs 1 million) which has been in place since 2010. The higher limit will also apply to the tax-free amount payable to an employee. The date from which the new provisions will apply has not yet been finalised, but this date is likely to lie in late 2017 / early 2018. As in previous such updates, the increased limit would apply to gratuity already accrued to date as well as accrual in respect of future service. Impact on employers / sponsors Companies in India make provisions in their financial statements for the Gratuity obligation as per the relevant accounting standards (AS15 Revised or INDAS19, as applicable). However, not all companies financials will be affected by the change. An internal study by Willis Towers Watson in 2016 showed that about 40 percent companies already provide the benefit with no ceiling to their employees and would therefore, not be affected by such a change, except being able to pay a higher tax-free benefit. About 55 percent of them provided gratuity purely in line with the PG Act and would be impacted. The remainder have chosen to provide a benefit calculated on a different basis altogether, and have the PG Act benefit effectively acting as a minimum. Any benefit paid out in excess of the PG Act would be taxable as income in the hands of the employee on receipt of the payment. If an employer / sponsor may be impacted, they should consider the following: 1. If the gratuity arrangement currently applies a ceiling which is less than Rs 20 lakh (all PG Act plans would also fall here), quickly assess the impact of the ceiling change on your accounts. 2. The extent of the impact will depend on how many people, and the extent to which employees are likely to be projected to go above the current Rs 10 Lakh limit by the time they leave or retire from the organization. If a company has no one likely to even reach Rs 10 lakh, then the new change will not impact them. 3. Ensure the company and the companys gratuity trust projects anticipated increase in cashflow requirements for higher projected payouts. This includes anticipated increase in contributions to a trust (if applicable). 4. Even if your gratuity arrangements apply an overall cap of INR 20 Lakh or higher, you may still wish to share the good news with your employees as a higher amount of their gratuity benefit will attract tax relief. Impact on active / in service employees Most employees who are part of their employers gratuity arrangement are set to gain from the amendment with the advantages coming in various forms: 1. The increase in limit applies to the overall gratuity payouts an individual receives over the working lifetime, which can now be higher. 2. If you have already received the full Rs 10 lakh from our previous employers, you can accrue another Rs 10 lakh as a tax-free gratuity benefit. 3. If your gratuity benefit has already breached Rs 10 lakh with current employer (see formula in footnote), you can now continue to accrue additional benefits up to a total limit of Rs 20 lakh tax-free. Previous Gratuity Payments Received Current PG Act Proposed Amendment Mr A Nil Current Benefit = INR 8L Can accrue an additional INR 2L (tax-free) Current Benefit = INR 8L Can accrue an additional INR 12L (tax-free) Ms B INR 5L (tax-free) Current Benefit = INR 4L Can accrue an additional INR 1L (tax-free) and another INR 5L subject to marginal tax rate Current Benefit = INR 4L Can accrue an additional INR 11L (tax-free) and another INR 5L subject to marginal tax rate Mr C INR 5L (tax-free) Current Benefit = INR 10L Cannot accrue further benefits Will receive INR 5L (tax-free) and marginal tax rate will apply on the other 5L Current Benefit = INR 10L Can accrue an additional INR 10L of which 5L (tax-free) and marginal tax rate will apply on the other 5L The following table demonstrates the additional benefits an individual will receive via the amendment. For simplicity, the illustrations assume that all arrangements allow accrual as per PG Act. (The writer is Head of Retirement, South Asia, Willis Towers Watson) (This article should not be relied upon as formal tax or legal advice.) (1) The Payment of Gratuity Act 1972 provides that companies with 10 or more employees must provide their employees with a gratuity benefit at the time of leaving employment, subject to a minimum period of service of 5 years. The benefit upon leaving is broadly calculated as 15/26 x salary at exit x years of service, where salary is based on Basic plus Dearness Allowance (DA), and service is calculated on a nearest complete years basis. Under the PG Act, however, the maximum benefit is subject to a ceiling which is currently Rs 10 lakh. Mitessh Thakkar of miteshthacker.com told CNBC-TV18, "The only stock which is on the sell side is possibly Bajaj Finance. It has made two highs at levels of about Rs 1,950-1,960 and yesterday we got some intraday breakdown with the numbers coming out and some profit booking happening. So, maybe there is some more price decline or a mild correction or pull-back left in the price." "My sense is that it could decline to levels of about Rs 1,805-1,800 and sell this with a stop loss at Rs 1,922." "Bajaj Auto made a fresh swing breakout with a good intraday setup. Buy with a stop loss at Rs 3,184 for target of Rs 3,340." "I also have a buy on Cipla made a breakout beyond levels of Rs 595 which was a typical supply zone for the stock. So, buy with a stop loss at Rs 592, look for Rs 630 as the target." "Federal Bank was buzzing. With price-volume breakout and a good range breakout, buy with a stop loss at Rs 118.90, look for Rs 135-136 kind of a target." "Tata Motors DVR and the Tata Motors are looking very good. So I have picked the Tata Motors DVR, buy with a stop loss at Rs 239, look for upside to about levels of Rs 258," he said. "BEML is giving a good breakout of the 3-day range. That could possibly be a buy with a stop loss below day's low and I would look at Rs 1,825 as the target." "The other stock which I think is looking good is Asian Paints. Yesterday we had a call on Berger Paints, Asian Paints is also showing a good intraday sign." "BEML has moved up slightly higher, so unfortunately, buy cannot be initiated now, but anything closer to about Rs 1,800-1,795 is a good buying zone. Keep a stop loss below Rs 1,774 and Rs 1,860 is your target," he added. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Shares of Aurobindo Pharma rose 2 percent intraday Tuesday as the company has received final approval to manufacture Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-release capsules. The company has received final approval from the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) to manufacture Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-Release Capsules OTC, 20mg. Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-Release Capsules OTC is a therapeutic equivalent generic version of AstraZeneca's Nexium 24HR capsules. Nexium 24HR capsules are indicated to treat frequent heartburn and the product will be launched immediately. This is the 127 ANDA (including 23 tentative approvals) to be approved out of Unit VII formulation facility in Hyderabad, India used for manufacturing oral products. The company now has a total of 335 ANDA approvals (296 final approvals including 16 from Aurolife Pharma LLC and 39 tentative approvals) from USFDA. At 11:14 hrs Aurobindo Pharma was quoting at Rs 768.05, up Rs 10.45, or 1.38 percent on the BSE. Posted by Rakesh Patil Nobel Prize The 105th Indian Science Congress, to be held here in January next year, will be attended by about 30 Nobel laureates, Telangana Forests Minister Jogu Ramanna has said. The Congress will be hosted by Osmania University from January 3 to 7, a state government release yesterday quoted the minister as saying. The state government will set up nine science centres across the state at a cost of Rs 166.40 crore for promoting learning of science, he said. It would also establish "radiation technology plants' under the Smart City project in Warangal and Karimnagar, the minister added. Representative Image As part of efforts towards modernisation, the Indian Army is now looking for modular, bulletproof and portable bunkers to replace the existing ones made from stone, mud, wood and steel. The reforms include the use of standard bulletproof material from jackets to vehicles, the Economic Times reported. The existing bunkers are unable to survive extreme weather or intense enemy fire. Steel bunkers in particular are difficult to carry to high altitudes. Construction and maintenance of these are also not efficient in terms of manpower and resources. However, even as the second largest army in the world is headed for an overhaul, soldiers are still deprived of modern infantry weapons such as assault rifles and sniper guns. Recently, Army Chief Bipin Rawat underlined the need to induct small arms for infantry battalion, the Times of India reported. According to the report, around 12 lakh army men require 8,18,500 new-generation assault rifles, 4,18,300 close-quarter battle carbines, 43,700 light machine guns and 5,679 sniper rifles. Attempts to acquire weapons from abroad or manufacture them domestically have been hindered over time for a variety of reasons. Additionally, the Army now wants to induct 5,679 new 8.6mm sniper rifles to replace its old 7.62mm Dragunov sniper rifles (800-metre range). The 8.6mm sniper rifles have an effective kill range of 1,200m, with modern magnification and bipod stands, the report said. At the end of August this year, the Army started the first phase of its long-due reforms. But it did not focus on artillery. The government said it had decided to implement 65 of the 99 reforms recommended by the Lt-Gen. (retd) D.B. Shekatkar committee that submitted its report last year. The reforms aimed to enhance the combat potential of the army while optimising the cost. Men sit under a banner carrying a portrait of chief of India's Congress party Sonia Gandhi outside the Congress office in New Delhi May 16, 2014. Counting of votes began on Friday after India's mammoth election, which could usher in the most profound economic change in a generation if opposition leader Narendra Modi wins a clear mandate for his agenda to revive growth and create jobs. REUTERS/Adnan Abidi (INDIA - Tags: POLITICS ELECTIONS) - RTR3PEHK Congress on Tuesday demanded a probe by a Commission, comprising two seniormost Supreme Court judges, into the business dealings of a company owned by BJP President Amit Shah's son, for an "independent and credible" inquiry. "We demand that to conduct an independent and credible investigation, a Commission comprising two senior-most Supreme Court judges be appointed to submit a report within a time bound period," party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala told reporters here. Congress and other opposition parties have been pushing for a probe in the wake of a claim by news portal 'The Wire' in its report that the firm owned by BJP chief's son Jay Shah saw a huge rise in turnover after the BJP came to power at the Centre in 2014. Jay Shah has termed the story "false, derogatory and defamatory." Surjewala also said it is a "moment of reckoning" for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Whether the prime minister will stand on the side of friendship and party politics or stand with truth, accountability and morality? Entire country is watching it," he said. Indian Railways India's railways sector has been in the news recently - for the wrong reasons. From trains derailing to food poisoning in the newly-launched Tejas Express, the behemoth has had its share of negative headlines. And sure enough, Railways got a new Cabinet minister in Piyush Goyal. Goyal has his task cut out - to revamp one of the oldest bureaucracies and bring it up to date. Here are a few areas in which Railways scores well, or poorly. The nation's railroad infrastructure, according to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Competitiveness Index, holds the 28th rank out of 101 countries. (Source: WEF) India, being a country which is highly dependent on the railways, is nowhere close to the top countries with the best railway infrastructure. The WEF Global Competitiveness Index is a comparison of more than 100 countries. The countries are scored out of 10. If a country has a score above 6, then the country is said to be developed. China ranks 12th in the rail infra ranking with a score of 5.3 out of 10. And on the other hand, India's lifeline sector scores 4.4 out of 10, indicating that there is a lot of bucking up to do. Former Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu had gone to the extent of showing his willingness to resign from his post due to the train accidents and derailments in his tenure. The CAG report, while Prabhu was still the Minister, also pointed out many liabilities in the sector. The report highlighted poor food quality, superfast trains frequently delayed, and alleged that the organised disaster management team didn't do an efficient job. In the Cabinet Reshuffle, former Power Minister Piyush Goyal took charge of the Railway Ministry. As soon as Goyal came to power, he proposed many reforms for the sector. The minister proposed electric locomotive trains instead of diesel ones as a step towards electrifying the railways. He has also said that the government will spend Rs 1,000 crore per month on renewing the tracks to avoid derailments. Goyal has been pushing to build electric locomotives for railways as well and claims that over Rs 16,000 crore of expenditure can be saved. Goyal said that the sector has tied up with Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) for funding. India's first Make in India contract with General Electric will see the setting up of a diesel locomotives factory in Bihar, but there have been hurdles. However, after GE warned that India will have to face penalties if the deal is called off, Goyal later clarified that the diesel locomotives factory with GE is to stay. Reports say that Goyal is in talks with the firm to set up an electric locomotives factory as well. But in terms of electricity supply, according to the WEF, India holds the 80th position out of 137 countries. Given its low ranking and high hopes of electrifying the railways, India's rail infrastructure requires a major revamp. Here are the countries with top quality electricity supply India needs to step its game up by investing in electrification schemes such as Saubhagya, which aims to electrify all households by 2019. Over one lakh employees of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) have gone on an indefinite strike demanding a hike in salary, causing hardships to thousands of long-distance passengers planning to travel to their hometowns for Diwali. To overcome the disruption caused by the strike, which started from midnight yesterday, the transport department of the Maharashtra government has issued a notification to allow private vehicles, including school buses, to ferry passengers. The state-run corporation termed the strike, which has hit the Diwali travel of thousands of passengers, as "illegal". "Our 1.02 lakh staffers have stopped plying ST buses from midnight yesterday demanding implementation of the 7th Pay Commission and an interim hike of 25 per cent till the pay panel's recommendations are implemented. "The government agreed to give only a part of interim hike which is not acceptable to us," Sandeep Shinde, president of the Maharashtra ST Workers' Union, told PTI today. "If our demands are met, we are ready to end our strike right now," Shinde said. Shinde said, on behalf of the union, he apologises for inconvenience caused to passengers. "We have been rendering our services to them (passengers) since long, but this time we need their support for our survival," Shinde added. He said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Transport Minister Diwakar Raote have taken some steps to resolve the issue, but "we want a final solution this time". "Due to the strike by State Transport staffers, official permission has been granted for all types of (private) buses (like school and company vehicles) to ferry passengers from ST depots," Parveen Gedam, Transport Commission of Maharashtra, told PTI. A senior official of the MSRTC said the strike is "illegal" and the transport agency's administration has appealed to the union members to come back to work. "Different courts have clarified that such strikes are not within law as transport is an essential service. We, therefore, appeal to the staffers to resume work." MSRTC officials said Fadnavis and Raote have taken the issue seriously and ordered setting up of a committee to look into it. More than 65 lakh passengers travel by ST buses across the state everyday. The MSRTC runs 18,000 buses, some of which go to far-flung areas not connected by rail network. The transport undertaking incurs a loss of Rs 450 crore per year. Sushma Swaraj External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has directed the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to grant medical visa immediately to a five-year-old Pakistani girl, suffering from eye cancer, for treatment in India. The child's parents had sought Swaraj's help. "There is a request for medical visa for 5 year old child Anamta Farrukh who is suffering from eye cancer for her treatment in India. I have asked @IndiainPakistan to issue medical visa for treatment of the child in India immediately," she said on Twitter yesterday. She also said another Pakistani child requiring bone marrow transplant was being given visa for treatment in India. "We are giving medical visa for the bone marrow transplant surgery of your son in India. I pray for his early recovery here," Swaraj said to the father of the boy, identified as Shehriyar. Swaraj announced that two Pakistani men were also being medical visas for liver transplant. "We have approved medical visa for the liver transplant of your father Syed Baseer Imam Zaidi and pray for his long life," she said. Zaidi's son Syed Adnan requested her to facilitate visa approval to his father. "I have asked Indian High Commission in Pakistan to issue visa for the liver transplant surgery of your father in India," she responded to the plea of another Twitter user. Swaraj has been taking a sympathetic approach in granting medical visas to Pakistani nationals, notwithstanding strain in ties between India and Pakistan over a host of issues, including cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Answer: Taj Mahal. The researchers concluded that: The Taj was a monument to love, but was also equally a project driven by ego. As Shah Jahan says, my beloved deserves a tomb that befits her and my love for her, and resources at my command will be used for that purpose. As history notes, the end of Taj Mahal's construction almost coincided with the beginning of Shah Jahan's fall. (Image: Reuters) Union Tourism Minister Alphons Kannanthanam said today that the Taj Mahal was "India's pride" and core of tourism circuit, after a BJP MLA questioned the monument's place in the country's heritage. "Taj Mahal is India's pride. There is no doubt, we hold pride in Taj Mahal," he told a private news channel here. He also said the government had "elaborate plans" for the historical monument. Stating that BJP's stand on the issue was very clear, Kannanthanam said, "Taj is core of tourism circuit. The UP government is developing new destinations and Taj is already hugely popular." Kannanthanam's comment comes a day after Uttar Pradesh BJP MLA Sangeet Som questioned the the 17th century architectural marvel place in India's heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. Som, the party's legislator from Sardhana, also distorted history to say it was built by an emperor who had imprisoned his father and targeted Hindus. Announcing that he would visit Agra next week to review tourism schemes, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said today that the Taj Mahal was a historical monument regardless of the emperor who had built it. "It is immaterial as to who and how the Taj Mahal was built... It was made by the sweat and blood of Bharat Mata's sons," the chief minister said in Gorakhpur. Som's comments on the Taj Mahal had come after the Adityanath government reportedly omitted the 17th century monument from an official booklet on tourist destinations. The first list of Congress candidates for the Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections is likely to be out on Wednesday after a meeting of the central election committee headed by party chief Sonia Gandhi. Sources in the party said the central election committee (CEC) is likely to meet Wednesday morning at 10, Janpath, the residence of the Congress president. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, party's general secretary in-charge of Himachal Sushil Kumar Shinde are also expected to attend the meeting besides incumbent Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and party's state unit chief Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the sources said. "The panel will meet to decide candidates for the crucial polls tomorrow. Majority of the candidates will be finalised by tomorrow itself. There are some seats, candidates for which are likely to be decided later. This is because there has been no consensus on whom to offer the candidature," a source said. Singh has already been declared as the party's chief ministerial face and the campaign committee head for the November 9 Assembly polls in the hill state. He is likely "to have his way" in the selection of candidates, the sources said. The party's Screening Committee is headed by former Union Minister Jitendra Singh. It would decide on the candidates, on the basis of the recommendations made by the Pradesh Election Committee (PEC). The PEC has already given 42 single names for as many seats while giving a panel of names for 26 remaining seats. Singh has said that "winnability" was the only factor for the distribution of party tickets but did not answer whether the "one family one ticket" formula would be made applicable in the state. The formula was successfully implemented in Punjab earlier. The chief minister confirmed that his son Vikramaditya Singh will contest from Shimla Rural constituency, currently represented by Singh himself. He said his son has every right to contest as he is the Himachal Youth Congress chief. Minister Kaul Singh Thakur is demanding a party ticket for his daughter Champa from Shimla while another minister G S Bali is also asking a ticket for his son. Asked if all sitting MLAs will be repeated, Singh said almost all except a few, who have opted out. Sources said that Vidya Stokes, Viplove Thakur, Harsh Mahajan and Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu have stated before the Pradesh Election Committee that they do not wish to contest. The sources also said that four senior leaders Virbhadra Singh, Asha Kumari, Mukesh Agnihotri and Bali had not applied for a party ticket, but the State Election Committee has asked them to contest and recommended their single names. Sources added that the chief minister will contest from either the Theog seat or from Arki seat, near Shimla. Former President Pranab Mukherjee has described Mamata Banerjee as a "born rebel" and recalled how she once stormed out of a meeting, leaving him feeling "humiliated and insulted". Noting that there was an aura about her which was "difficult to explain but impossible to ignore", Mukherjee said in his new book 'The Coalition Years' that she had built her career fearlessly and aggressively and was the "outcome of her own struggle". "Mamata Banerjee is a born rebel," he wrote, adding that nothing illustrated this trait better than an episode in the West Bengal Congress organisational election in 1992, in which she was defeated. He recollected how she suddenly changed her mind and demanded open elections in the party unit. The former president recalled that after media reports said the top leaders of the West Bengal Congress, including Banerjee, wanted a consensus election to avoid an open contest that could bring out "ugly factionalism" in the party, then prime minister and Congress chief PV Narasimha Rao asked him to mediate and find a solution. "One day, during the winter of that year, I requested Mamata Banerjee for a meeting to discuss some of the observations she had made about the process (of organisational elections). "During the discussion, Mamata suddenly flared up and accused me along with other leaders of a conspiracy against her. She now demanded organisational election, and said she had always stood for elections so that grass-roots level workers could have their say in organisational matters," he said in the book. Banerjee went on to accuse him and others of "distributing organisational positions" among themselves, "thereby thwarting the electoral process", he wrote. Mukherjee said he was "flabbergasted by her reaction and wild allegations" and told her that a compromise formula was being devised at the request of the leaders, including her. But she claimed she was totally opposed to his approach and wanted open elections, he said. "Having said that she left the meeting in a huff. I was stunned and felt humiliated and insulted," he said. The former president said she lost by a very narrow margin to Mitra in the election for the post of the WBPCC president held through a secret ballot. "I was present when that result was announced. An angry Mamata came up to me and asked, 'Are you happy? Has your desire to defeat me been fulfilled?' I told her that she was totally mistaken," Mukherjee recalled. He told her he had played no role in the organisational election since she last met him. The former Congress leader in the book also said that the evolution of Mamata Banerjee as a political leader of substance was an important episode in contemporary politics of West Bengal. "She has built her own career - fearlessly and aggressively - and what she is today is the outcome of her own struggle, labour and hard work. She has an aura about her which is difficult to explain but impossible to ignore," he said. He also said Banerjee emerged as a force to reckon with after the Kolkata plenary in 1997 as has had a spectacular political career. Mukherjee described her victory in the 1984 Lok Sabha when she defeated CPI(M)'s Somnath Chatterjee from Jadavpur, a constituency that was considered a citadel of the Marxist party. "This was a splendid victory and she appeared to be truly a giant killer. Throughout her subsequent political life, she has always faced tough challenges bravely and tried to convert them into opportunities," he said. Artists dressed as Hindu gods Rama and Laxman act as fireworks explode during Vijaya Dashmi, or Dussehra festival celebrations in Chandigarh, India, September 30, 2017. REUTERS/Ajay Verma TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY - RC13A47DA9E0 Uttar Pradesh's Shia Waqf board has said that it would gift 10 silver arrows for the quiver of the 100-meter high Lord Ram statue planned by the Yogi Adityanath government on the banks of Saryu river in Ayodhya as a mark of respect. Chairman of the board, Waseem Rizvi, in a letter to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, said that it would be a matter of pride for Indians and it will put Uttar Pradesh on the world map. The gesture comes few days after the All India Muslim Personal Law Board members Zafaryab Jilani and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticised the UP governments proposal. Both had termed the Ram Temple an illegal construction, adding that it is a violation of secular principles for the state government to get involved in a project like this. Waseem Rizvi, however, also said that the silver arrows will be a token of admiration and esteem which the Shias hold for Lord Rama, as per a report in News18. He further said that the Nawabs of the region had always respected the temples in Ayodhya, quoting historical examples such as Hanuman Garhi land in Central Ayodhya being donated by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah in 1739. Chairman Waseem Rizvi, who was once a close aide of Samajwadi Party leader and former UP minister Azam Khan, has supported the construction of the Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya in the past, claiming that the land actually belonged to Shias and not the Sunni Waqf Board. Moneycontrol News Researchers have just published details of a new attack against WiFi encryption which they dubbed as key reinstallation attacks or Krack, and it has taken much of the world by surprise. Krack has the potential to affect all protected networks and can be used to steal sensitive data such as credit card details, chats, emails, messages and photos apart from injecting malware and manipulating data. A few days back, researcher Mathy Vanhoef from Belgiums KU Leuven University posted a video demonstrating how a hacker can intercept data transmitted from a wireless device (an Android phone in the video) by exploiting the WPA2 security. Vanhoef was the first one to spot Krack. However, Krack is a wide but shallow bug, while nearly every device that uses Wi-Fi is vulnerable and subject to attack, the attack itself is quite difficult to be executed in practice. Krack essentially exploits the weakness in the WPA2 system that is responsible for securing the connection between a computer and a WiFi router. When the system breaks down, it could lead to an attacker get between you and your router. Also, to carry out the attack, the hacker needs to be within the range of the users WiFi, which greatly reduces the risk. Also, only one network can be hit at a time. From there, they can eavesdrop on unencrypted, i.e. non-HTTPS traffic and compromise your computer by slipping malware into legitimate websites. A precautionary measure would include encrypting your WiFi signal and putting up a patch for your software. The two primary devices that are a 'must-patch' include your computer and phone. Updating immediately, however, may not be an option for everyone as most people out there are still putting up patches for the update. It is more difficult to patch Krack as compared to other bugs as it targets a primary weakness in the way WPA2 system functions by reinstalling private keys. Microsoft Windows has, in its recent Windows updates, released on October 10, fixed the issue for customers running supported versions of Windows. Apple too has said that the vulnerability has been fixed in the Beta versions of its current operating systems, as reported by The Verge. Google, too has announced a fix coming up for its affected devices in a few weeks. Security researchers have said that the Android devices are vulnerable to an exceptionally devastating variant of the Krack WiFi attack. The most prevalent way to protect yourself against Krack is by using a patched-up WiFi and avoiding random WiFi connections. Another possible option could be using a LAN connection till the WiFi vendor issues a firmware update just to be safe. Packed sacks of onions (Image: REUTERS/Danish Siddiqui) As wholesale onion prices across the markets in Nashik remained above the Rs 2,000-mark on Monday, farmer organisations rejected various market committee suggestions to forgo their traditional week-long Diwali break. A report in the Indian Express stated that the district collector of Nashik had held a meeting with the traders and other market representatives to let go of their traditional Diwali break starting from Tuesday to prevent a further rise in onion prices. However, the farmers refused the proposal saying that it was intentionally done to reduce the prices. At the same time, a leader of the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghtana Dipak Pagar warned the government of an agitation by farmers against the anti-farmer policies of the central government. The onion prices across the country have been on the rise with 79.78 percent increase in September. On Monday the onion prices shot up to Rs 35-40 per kilogram. Onion prices were rolling at Rs 1,600-1,750 per quintal earlier this year which shot up to Rs 2,200-2,400 last Friday. Market sources told the paper the prices are expected to be within this range for some time due to the about 60 percent-dip in onion production in Karnataka. Farmers have the bare minimum stock. However, the price rise is mainly because of the almost 60 percent-dip reported in the kharif area from Karnataka, Jaydutt Holkar, Chairman of the Lasalgaons wholesale market told the paper. Stating that the current price trend will continue until new crops arrive, Holkar added that Maharashtras Kharif onion would arrive post-Diwali. The Central government had urged the state to investigate the reasons for the rise in prices, following which the state directed district deputy registrar to conduct an inquiry into the matter. The wholesale market also saw a decline in the onion stock arriving for trade. On Monday, over 1,500 quintals of onions arrived in Lasalagon market whereas 7,500 quintals arrived from Pimpalgaon market. Sources told the newspaper that the decline in arrivals might be due to the festive season as farmers usually do not come to the market for trading. A Kashmiri masked protestor looks upon during funeral of a local rebel Sajad Gilkar Wednesday, July 12, 2017 in Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir, India. Government imposed curfew in parts of Srinagar after three Kashmiri rebels from the main city were killed in a gunfight with government forces. Clashes and anti-India protests erupted in parts of the Srinagar city in which at least a dozen people were injured including a local photojournalist. (Photo by Ahmer Khan/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Posters, attributed to militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen, have appeared in parts of Kashmir warning the migrant population to leave the Valley by October 25. The police, however, dismissed the posters as a "mischief" in the wake of increasing incidents of mysterious braid-chopping incidents in the state. "The non-locals mostly work here as labourers. It seems someone has played a mischief," Director General of Police S P Vaid said. With an increase in braid-chopping incidents over the past month, self-appointed vigilante groups have surfaced in parts of Kashmir who beat up people suspecting them to be the perpetrators. These groups have largely targeted the local Kashmiri people, some migrant labourers and tourists have also been caught in the crosshairs of the vigilante groups. On October 5, a septuagenarian died after a young man hit him with a stone under the impression he was the one behind the mysterious incidents. Police have set up special investigation teams at district levels to investigate the cases of braid chopping and announced a reward of Rs 6 lakh for information leading to the arrest of the culprits, but has so far failed to make any headway. Police officials claim non-cooperation of victims in their investigation as one of the reasons for the unsolved cases. In some cases, though, it has come to light that people were using these incidents as an excuse to settle scores. Vaid earlier this week said a mass hysteria was being generated by vested interests to whip up tension in the Valley. According to the police, more than 100 braid-chopping incidents have been reported, out of which 63 were related to people who were either being treated for mental illness or were under the influence of local godmen. Separatists and militant groups in the Valley have blamed security agencies for orchestrating braid-chopping incidents for creating panic among the people. Two unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants shot dead a senior Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) leader in the Kailash Nagar locality in Ludhiana on Tuesday, the police said. Ravinder Gosain, 60, was returning home after attending a morning drill (RSS shakha) when he was attacked, they said. Gosain died on the spot while the attackers fled, the officials said. A three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Gagan Ajit Singh has been formed to crack the case. The other members of the team are Sandeep Garg and Rajvir Singh, both additional DCPs, Ludhiana Police Commissioner R N Dhoke said. Yash Giri, city secretary of the RSS condemned the incident and said it was "definitely a target killing". "The victim was in Sangh uniform and about to enter his house when the killers targeted him," he said. Police said they were examining CCTV footage from the cameras installed in the locality to get a clue about the culprits. Two suspects, with their faces covered, on a bike could be seen in the CCTV footage, they said. "We are working on various theories. Police teams have been dispatched to various places in search of the killers," Dhoke said. Investigations were underway, he said adding that it would be premature to term the incident as "terrorist crime". The issue of the RSS activist's killing was raised by Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who was in Punjab, with Chief Minister Amarinder Singh. "Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has taken up the matter of the brutal killing of RSS leader Ravinder Gosain with Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh," former Punjab BJP chief Kamal Sharma said in a release here. Rajnath Singh told the Punjab chief minister to get the matter thoroughly investigated in a speedy manner, Sharma said. Significantly, last year, another senior RSS leader Jagdish Gagneja died after he was shot by bike-borne assailants in Jalandhar. The incident also comes at a time when the BJP has been protesting against the killing of RSS and its own workers in Kerala. Opposition parties, the BJP and the SAD, strongly condemned Gosain's killing. Punjab BJP chief and Union minister Vijay Sampla alleged that the killing proved that the law and order situation had deteriorated in Punjab. "His murder is reminiscent of the black days of terrorism," said Sampla while demanding security for RSS and BJP leaders. I have taken up this issue with Punjab Governor V P Singh Badnore who told me that a report on this matter has been sought from the home secretary, said Sampla. "It is an unfortunate incident and we strongly condemn it. It is an attempt to disturb the communal harmony in Punjab," SAD spokesperson, Daljit Singh Cheema, said. The state government should take this incident seriously and those responsible for this heinous crime should be put behind bars, demanded Cheema, a former minister. Moneycontrol News Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, known for his inclusive attitude towards cultural and religious diversity in his home country, lit a diya ahead of Diwali and the Sikh festival Bandi Chor Divas. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa with Indian High Commissioner to Canada Vikas Swarup (Courtesy: @VikasSwarup on Twitter) The Canadian Prime Minister tweeted photos of him celebrating Diwali with the Indian community in Ottawa. And here is Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau conveying his very warm Diwali greetings to everyone pic.twitter.com/7YkD6B5Jxm Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) October 17, 2017 Eid Mubarak not Diwali Mubarak, wish only Happy Diwali, stop getting coaching from Pakistani about Hindu festivals. anjani choubey (@anjmb) October 17, 2017 In the photos, where he was lighting the ceremonial lamp in the presence of Indian high commissioner Vikas Swarup, was captioned by him as Diwali Mubarak!, which immediately provoked sharp reactions from the Indian Twitteratti. Mr Trudeau. Please don't disrespect Hindus. We would love to celebrate our most sacred festival without your Arabic "Diwali Wishes". Ashish (@Ak_Ashii) October 17, 2017 PM Justin, thanks for the Deepavali Greetings. Confirm w. @CanadainIndia, please amend your tweet. Nobody, but nobody, says "Diwali Mubarak" Truthsayer (@a_truthsayer) October 17, 2017 It's not "Diwali Mubarak", it's "Diwali Ki Badhai" ... Correct it .. Bhavesh K Pandey (@bhaveshkpandey) October 17, 2017 I am a HINDU & 'Diwali Mubarak' is perfectly right for me. It's all about wishing and not making petty issues out of it. Aayush Sharma (ANI) (@AayushPrime) October 17, 2017 Then again, there are others who reacted differently. that's arabic, justin. but we'll let it pass because we love you oneli (@OnieXOX) October 17, 2017 You are awesome. Not sure why ppl getting offended by "Mubarak" Respect the sentiments behind, Mubarak just an Arabic word for blessing Shaan (@Shanyousaf6) October 17, 2017 The Canadian Prime Minister is well-known for his commitment to cultural diversity visits temples, langars and gurudwaras quite often. Last year, Trudeau had said that the festival of Diwali stood out as an example of Canadian diversity. Diwali highlights our shared values of respect and inclusion and our commitment to freedom and equality. It is a reminder that Canada is a nation made stronger not in spite of our differences, but because of them, he had said. Donald Trump President Donald Trump will travel to Japan, South Korea, China, and east Asian nations next month to underscore his commitment to longstanding American alliances and partnerships, the White House said today. The November 3-14 tour would be Trump's maiden trip to the region as president. "The president's travel will underscore his commitment to longstanding United States alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. Leaving White House on November 3 and with a stopover in Hawaii, Trump will commence his visit to Asia beginning with Japan on November 5. While in Japan, Trump will meet with American and Japanese service members, and participate in bilateral meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who will also host him for a meeting with the families of Japanese citizens abducted by the North Korean regime, Sanders said. During his visit to South Korea on November 7, Trump will participate in a bilateral meeting with President Moon Jae-in and visit American and South Korean service members. He will speak at the National Assembly, where he will celebrate the enduring alliance and friendship between the US and the Republic of Korea, and call on the international community to join together in maximising pressure on North Korea. "On November 8, President Trump will arrive in Beijing, China for a series of bilateral, commercial, and cultural events, including meetings with President Xi Jinping," Sanders said, adding that Trump will then travel to Danang, Vietnam, on November 10. There, he will participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting and deliver a speech at the APEC CEO Summit. "In the speech, the president will present the United States' vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing America's economic prosperity," Sanders said. On November 11, Trump will travel to Hanoi, for an official visit and bilateral engagements with President Tran Dai Quang and other senior Vietnamese leaders. Trump will arrive in Manila, on November 12 to participate in the Special Gala Celebration Dinner for the 50th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). On November 13, the US president will celebrate the 40th anniversary of US-ASEAN relations at the US-ASEAN Summit and participate in bilateral meetings with President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines and other leaders, said the presidential spokesperson. you are here: A ballistic rocket launch drill of the Strategic Force of the Korean People's Army (KPA) is seen at an unknown location, in this undated photo released by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) in Pyongyang on March 11, 2016. TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY REUTERS/KCNA ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS PICTURE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. REUTERS IS UNABLE TO INDEPENDENTLY VERIFY THE AUTHENTICITY, CONTENT, LOCATION OR DATE OF THIS IMAGE. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NOT FOR SALE FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS. NO THIRD PARTY SALES. NOT FOR USE BY REUTERS THIRD PARTY DISTRIBUTORS. SOUTH KOREA OUT. NO COMMERCIAL OR EDITORIAL SALES IN SOUTH KOREA. THIS PICTURE IS DISTRIBUTED EXACTLY AS RECEIVED BY REUTERS, AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS. - RTSAAQK North Korea will be interested in negotiating with the US only after its missiles are capable of reaching mainland US. As per a report by the CNN, an official from Pyongyang made it clear that the North Korean regime will be interested in using the diplomatic option only after achieving an offensive capability. "Before we can engage in diplomacy with the Trump administration, we want to send a clear message that the DPRK has a reliable defensive and offensive capability to counter any aggression," the official was quoted saying in the report by CNN. The comments makes it clear that Pyongyang is determined to carry on its nuclear and missile programs irrespective of the global opposition towards the program. It also highlights the countrys determination to face any threat from the US head-on. The crux of the ongoing crisis in the Korean peninsula has been Pyongyangs continuous quest to achieve nuclear and missile capability that will enable level playing field for them. Both countries have been posturing themselves aggressively in military, economic and diplomatic arenas. Also Read: DATA STORY: How terrifying is North Koreas nuclear threat? Washington has used all available methods i.e. from isolating North Korean economy via sanctions, to beefing up its military might in the region to intimidate the North Korean leadership. However, the policies of Pyongyang reveal that unless any radical action is taken, Washington may have to accept the existence of a nuclear-capable adversary in the Korean peninsula. (Representative image) EUTERS/Goran Tomasevic - GF10000394233 The death toll in an ongoing suicide and gun attack on a police training centre in a southeast Afghan city has risen to 32 with more than 200 wounded, a hospital official said today. "The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood," said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province. A separate attack in a neighbouring province today left 15 security forces dead and 12 wounded, as militants step up their offensives following a ratcheting up in US airstrikes in a war-weary country marking 16 years of conflict this month. The victims of the ongoing Gardez attack, which was claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, include women, students and police, officials told AFP. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault," the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces is under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. The fighting has been going on for more than four hours. A local official said two car bombs went off near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing," Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The attack came hours after a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. Local officials told AFP that drones were still flying above Kurram after the attack, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US- Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children - all born in captivity - as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. Militants also targeted security forces in Ghazni on today, some 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Gardez, officials there said. That attack, which has ended, followed the same pattern, with "terrorists" detonating an explosives-laden Humvee vehicle near a police headquarters and attackers storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governor's spokesman, told AFP. Fifteen security forces were killed and 12 wounded, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman told AFP, adding "dozens of Taliban" also died. The latest attacks come as four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held Monday in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. (Representative image) EUTERS/Goran Tomasevic - GF10000394233 Two separate suicide and gun attacks on police and soldiers in Afghanistan left at least 71 dead and nearly 170 wounded today in the latest devastating assaults on beleaguered security forces. The Taliban claimed the more deadly of the two assaults, a coordinated attack on police in the southeast city of Gardez in Paktia province. That assault killed 41 people and injured 158, according to the interior ministry, and left hospital officials calling for blood donations. There were desperate scenes as relatives queued for news of loved ones after the hours-long battle. A separate ambush blamed on the Taliban in the neighbouring province of Ghazni killed 25 security officials and five civilians with 10 wounded, the interior ministry said. Afghanistan's army and police, on the front line against the Taliban since foreign combat forces pulled back in December 2014, have suffered shocking casualties over the past year. Their ranks are beset by corruption and desertion. "The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood," said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, who put the number of wounded there at more than 200. Doctors and nurses rushed to attend to the wounded women, children and police filling the corridors where some bodies also lay. Outside, university students formed a queue to donate blood, an AFP photographer said. The attack, claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, began when two suicide bombers driving an explosives-laden truck and a Humvee blew them up near the training centre, which is close to the Paktia police headquarters. The blasts flattened a building and enabled gunmen to force their way inside the compound, according to officials and the interior ministry. "Most of the victims are civilians who had come to the police headquarters to get their passports and national IDs," a statement from the Paktia governor's office said. A university student who was in class at the time said he heard "a big boom" which shook the building and shattered windows. "As we were trying to find our way (out of the building) I heard a second blast and then the dust and dirt covered us in the class. Several of my classmates were wounded by broken glass," Noor Ahmad told AFP. The battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces lasted around five hours before it ended with all five militants killed, officials said. Photos posted on Twitter showed two large plumes of smoke rising above the city. The second attack, in Ghazni some 100 kilometres (62 miles) west of Gardez, followed a similar pattern involving insurgents detonating an explosives-laden Humvee near a police headquarters then storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governor's spokesman, told AFP. "Dozens of Taliban" were killed in the attack, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman said. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attacks and praised the "bravery and sacrifice" of security forces. The attacks are the latest in a series of assaults on security installations, including one on a military hospital in Kabul in March which may have killed up to 100 people, and a devastating attack on a base in Mazar-i-Sharif which left 144 people dead. They came one day after four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. Paktia province borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. Tuesday's attack in Gardez began hours after a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. A senior commander in the Afghan Taliban told AFP on condition of anonymity the attack was in retaliation for the US aerial assault, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. On Monday the US also carried out strikes in the Jaji Maidan district of Paktia "under counter-terror authorities", said US Forces spokesman Navy Captain Tom Gresback. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. The extremist group is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. The US military has said it killed dozens of Islamic State fighters at the group's training camps in central Yemen, in the first such strikes in the country's conflict. Witnesses said villagers were prevented by tribal leaders from approaching the area and retrieving the dead and wounded for fear of additional strikes. Locals said the camps, both in Bayda province, were named after prominent IS figures: Yemen chief Abu Bilal al-Harbi and former global spokesman Abu Mohamed al-Adnani, killed last summer in a US air strike. This is the first time allies of Yemen's internationally recognised government have announced raids against IS footholds. "US forces killed dozens of ISIS members in a strike on two ISIS training camps... in Al-Bayda Governorate, Yemen, disrupting the organization's attempts to train new fighters," US Central Command, which oversees US forces in the region, said in a statement. "ISIS used the camps to train militants to conduct terror attacks using AK-47s, machine guns, rocket-propelled grenade launchers and endurance training." IS and its jihadist rival Al-Qaeda have taken advantage of a conflict between the government and Shiite Huthi rebels, who control the capital Sanaa, to bolster their presence across much of the south. The US is the only force known to operate armed drones over Yemen, but previous known strikes have exclusively targeted Al-Qaeda. IS, however, has risen to prominence in the country's civil war targeting both army recruits of the government and Shiites, which it considers heretics. It entered the war in March 2015 with a series of attacks on Shiite mosques in the capital, leaving more than 140 people dead. The group's last major attack was a suicide bombing in the government stronghold of Aden last December, which killed 48 soldiers. "Strikes against ISIS targets disrupt and destroy militants' attack-plotting efforts, leadership networks and freedom of maneuver within the region," the CENTCOM statement read. Al-Qaeda has distanced itself from IS attacks, claiming that it seeks to avoid "the shedding of any Muslim blood" while focusing on fighting the "Americans and their allies." The Saudi-led coalition, which intervened in Yemen in March 2015 to roll back Huthi rebel gains, has also turned its firepower on Sunni jihadists and backed forces loyal to President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi. The Yemen war has killed 8,673 people and wounded 58,636 -- among them many civilians, according to the UN. "ISIS has used the ungoverned spaces of Yemen to plot, direct, instigate, resource and recruit for attacks against America and its allies around the world," the CENTCOM statement said. "For years, Yemen has been a hub for terrorist recruiting, training and transit. The chronicle of a life split between urban Manhattan and rural Montana. Jarrett Coleman goes from school board to statehouse with win in 16th Senate District race October 17, 2017 Syria, Iraq - Why The Kurdish Independence Project Failed The bid of the Kurdish Barzani clan for an independent Kurdistan in north Iraq and beyond has utterly failed. Masoud Barzani, the strongman of the Iraqi Kurdish region, had called for the referendum to divert from his government's financial problems. Other Kurdish powerhouses saw it as a last attempt by Barzani to save his failing political position. The referendum asked for independence including in "Kurdistani areas outside the (Kurdistan) Region". It was an annexation bid. National Iraqi forces as well as the international powers turned against it. Masoud Barzani and his family are now likely to lose their leading position. The various unilateral Kurdish assertions since 2003 will be driven back. The dream of Kurdish independence in Iraq and Syria is, for now, dead. This is a positive development for both countries. bigger Since 2003 and especially since 2014 the Kurds had pushed far beyond their original borders. They occupied areas with diverse populations and with critical Iraqi oil reserves. With backing from the Iraqi parliament, public opinion and international support the Iraqi government of Prime Minister Abadi had for months demanded a return of the 2003 borders. It condemned the illegal independence bid. The ruling Barzani family mafia sold the oil and pocketed the money that by law was owned to Iraq's federal government. The Barzani militia mafia occupied the federal border stations to neighboring countries and kept all custom income to themselves. Meanwhile teachers and other public workers in the Kurdish region went unpaid. The Barzani family clan is only one of the powers in the Kurdish region of Iraq. Historically its main competitors are the Talabani clan. Both clans control their own political parties (KDP and PUK) and militia. Both had been fighting against each other during a civil war in the 1990s. Then the Barzanis called in help from Iraqi president Saddam Hussein to defeat their local enemies. Over the last decade the Talabanis were handicapped by their ailing patriarch Jalal Talabani. After the U.S. invasion of Iraq he eschewed a major role in the Kurdish region in exchange for the ceremonial position of a president of Iraq. When Jalal Talbani died on October 2 his family immediately asserted its position. It negotiated a deal with the central Iraqi government to reign in the Barzanis' quasi dictatorial powers. The Iranian General Qassam Suleiman helped to arrange the agreement. When the Iraqi government forces, as previously announced, moved to retake Kirkuk from the Kurds the Kurdish militia forces (peshmerga) under PUK/Talibani command retreated as planned. The militia under KDP/Barzani command were left in an indefensible position and had to flee in haste. Yesterday and today Iraqi national forces retook control of various large oil fields the Kurds had occupied. They are also back in control of border stations with Syria and Turkey. After three years the Yazidi can finally go back to Sinjar. The Mosul Dam is again in government hands. Without oil and customs dues the Kurdish region lacks the assets and income to finance any regional independence. While his project collapsed in front of everyone's eyes, not a word was heard from Masoud Barzani. The Iraqi government will not only retake full control of the areas the Kurds under Brazani had illegally usurped. It will also demand new regional elections. It is doubtful that Masoud Barzani, or any of his sons, can win such local elections after all the mismanagement and disasters they caused. In Syria the Kurdish YPG/SDF forces today took full control of Raqqa. It will take months to clear the last remands ISIS left behind. It will take years to rebuild the city as it was largely destroyed by U.S. air support during the fight against ISIS. In Deir Ezzor the last Islamic State positions are collapsing under attacks of Syrian government forces. In a few more days and weeks the city and countryside will also be fully liberated. The war against ISIS is coming to an end. The Kurdish independence project in Iraq has died. The Kurds in Syria will now also be cut back to size. With less than 8% of the population the YPG led Kurds had taken control of 20% of the land and some 40% of the hydrocarbon resources. They will have to give up those gains. The Kurdish forces in Syria had material and personal support from U.S. forces. Most of the equipment and munition was transported by U.S. planes to Erbil, the capital of the Kurdish region in Iraq, and from there by land through Iraqi-Syrian border stations under Barzani's control. The Iraqi government in Baghdad will now be back in control of those crossings. The flow of U.S. material into the Kurdish-Syrian areas is no longer assured. The U.S. had long supported Kurdish autonomy in Iraq. It has now taken the side of the Iraqi central government. The (Barzani) Kurds were left hanging. The Kurds in Syria surely recognized that and they will calculate appropriately. Meanwhile Turkish forces have invaded Idelb governate in north-west Syria and nearly surrounded the Kurdish enclave of Efrin. Only Russia is holding Erdogan back from moving any further. Last weekend the military leader of the YPG/SDF in Syria, Sipan Hamo, visited Moscow. He wants Russian protection for Efrin but for that he will have to pay a price. The Kurds in Syria will have to reconcile with the Syrian government. Political support from Washington is obviously not reliable. Without U.S. air support the Kurdish military positions are way overstretched. The flow of material support to them is now under latent control of the Baghdad which is allied with the Syrian government side. Only Damascus and its allies in Moscow can prevent the fall of Efrin. There is no trump card left to play for the Kurds. They can hope that Russia will help them to achieve some bits of federal autonomy in areas of Syria where they are the majority. They will have to give up their other gains. Zionist forces, which want to split up Syria, will try their best to prevent a U.S. retreat from Syria. Some in the U.S. military will want to continue their alliance with Syrian Kurds. But Turkey as well as Iraq are against further U.S. support for Kurdish forces. Without any assured air, land or sea route the U.S. military can not sustain a long term involvement in Syria. Moreover - there is nothing to gain for it. I expect that President Trump and the U.S. media will declare a glorious U.S. victory over ISIS in its "capital" Raqqa. Trump will then order the U.S. military to leave the country. There will likely be some minor involvement for months to come but the main operation will be wrapped up. What is left of ISIS in Syria's east will be rolled up by the Syrian army and its allies. Over the last decades, and especially since the (foreign induced) Salafi insurrection weakened the states of Syria and Iraq, the Kurds had made huge territorial and political gains. But they became overly greedy and did not see that these gains were not sustainable. Iraq and Syria reasserted themselves. The "western" allies of the Kurds rediscovered that their strategic interests are best served by intact nation states. As I wrote elsewhere, the Kurds are an extremely diverse people: There are four Kurdish languages which are not mutually understandable. There are a dozen religions among Kurds though a majority are (Sufi) Sunni. They have been schooled and socialized in four different states. There are tribal conglomerates or clans like the Barzani and Talibani which have their own political parties and are led by patriarchal family mafias. There are members of the anarcho-marxist cult of Ozalan while neighboring Salafi Kurds have joined ISIS to then kill the neighboring Yezidi Kurds. None of these groups has any enlightened or democratic understanding of the world. The Kurds never got a state and will never get one because they are so hugely diverse and have little national unity. They will rather fight each other than accept some common leadership. Over centuries the Kurdish people never found the agreement among themselves that is needed to form a viable nation state. The fall of their latest independence bid only confirm this weakness. Posted by b on October 17, 2017 at 13:49 UTC | Permalink Comments Ever find it hard to find the right kind of movie to watch? This could fix that One of the proposed options for reconfiguring Interstate 40 Exit 103 calls for Days Inn to be demolished. That's what North Carolina Department of Transportation representatives told Morganton and Burke County officials on Monday during a meeting about three proposals for the interchange. The state transportation department met with local officials and held a public meeting at Foothills Higher Education Center . As reported previously in The News Herald, the purpose of the project is to reduce congestion and improve traffic operations at the interchange. Rick Tipton, division construction engineer for the N.C. Department of Transportation, and Kristina Miller and Matthew Lamy, NCDOT consultants, gave a presentation to officials. In evaluations of the proposed construction area, a study by the DOT says that due to the amounts of traffic (at peak hours), there is poor service of the ramps and long lines of traffic that exceed available amount of road. The bridge at exit 103, which was built in 1957, is an inadequate cross-section for US-64 and has no room for future widening of I-40, transportation representatives said Monday. The study also took note that there are several driveways and intersections along U.S. 64 that increase the potential for accidents and add to traffic problems. The three construction options that were presented include a diamond pattern with one loop, a tight diamond and a diverging diamond. All three options will reconstruct exit 103, replace the bridge over I-40 and increase the number of lanes, eliminate the Williams Road intersection with the I-40 ramp and manage the accessibility along US 64 near the exit, according to information from the NCDOT. For all three options, Lamy says that On US 64 at the signalized intersection of Rural King and Lowes to the other side of the interchange with the intersection of Conley Street we propose to close the median of US 64 which means you will no longer be able to make left-hand turns from US 64 or left-hand turns from businesses. There will be U-turn accessibility for larger commercial vehicles and standard sized vehicles at multiple points in the proposed construction site. In option number one of a diamond structure with one loop, if this option is chosen, the most change would be in the northwestern quadrant. It has a preliminary cost of $21.6 million. The reason the loop is here is to increase the capacity of the interchange because the heaviest movements of the interchange are from I-40 westbound onto US 64, Lamy said. It turns a left-hand movement into a free flowing movement. Due to the loop, there would be 28 residential relocations and four business relocations, including the Days Inn on Burkemont Avenue. Potential impacts for all three options could include eliminating the Williams Road intersection with the I-40 on-ramp and build a cul-de-sac at the northern end of Williams Road. The plan would also restrict right in/right out turns along US 64 and provide median and U-turn bulbs or extended pavement. Options one and three states that another possible impact is eliminating Ross Street intersection with US 64 and constructing a new roadway to connect Ross Street and Conley Street. Option number two is considered to be a tight diamond design with a preliminary cost of $15.3 million. It will possibly relocate four businesses and eight residential locations This (option two) is very similar to the interchange that is there, (but) the difference between today and this option is the right turn-movement will be a free-flowing movement, so that eliminates any delay and congestion, Lamy said. The third option is a newer interchange concept called diverging diamond that have been built across the state in Asheville, Cornelius, Charlotte, Kannapolis and Kernersville. This option has a preliminary cost of $17 million, possibly impacting five businesses and relocating one residence. The benefits with a diverging diamond are all the left-hand movements on and off the interchange are all free-flowing movements verses stopping and signaling, Lamy said. Officials with the NCDOT say that the farther the move along with plans they expect the number of impacts to go down. Atticus Simpson, vice president of External Affairs and Workforce Development at Western Piedmont Community College, which is located off of Exit 103, asked what businesses would be possibly impacted by option number three, the diverging diamond. Officials said that the Days Inn, Bojangles and two separate gas stations may be affected, but since they are only in the conceptual stage of planning they would try to make those impacts less severe, Lamy said. Burke County Commissioner Maynard Taylor, asked how much it would cost businesses to lose the left turn option if the medians are closed off on US 64. I think a lot of the businesses, when you get rid of some of the congestion where people are not waiting, then does that give more people opportunity (to go to that business)? Tipton said. For most businesses, I think it will ultimately work out okay, but we will try to look into that. Police Chief Ronnie Rector with Morganton Department of Public Safety was curious about whether the diverging diamond option has reduced motor vehicle accidents in previous identical projects. I think it reduces the number of conflict points tends to with the way it is signalized and the alignment traffic drives they dont get a lot of speed going through there, but they keep a nice steady progression as they drive through, Tipton said. So you dont have as many left turns across traffic, so that prevents a lot of exposure to 90 degree impacts, so overall what we are seeing is a reduction in the severity of impacts. County Manager Bryan Steen expressed concern about how emergency service vehicles would have to maneuver through construction when it starts. We will maintain traffic, Tipton said. There might be sometimes during nights and weekends we might close the ramps and we, of course, would have detours put in place. We will almost always have access across the bridge. But if there is a weekend where we have to close the bridge we will work closely with everybody with emergency responses to let everybody know. NCDOT officials will take comments from the public and county and city officials to re-evaluate their plans over the next few months. Other I-40 interchange projects in the plan slated for Burke County are: Exit 107 Drexel Road Upgrade the interchange at a cost of $16.1 million, plus another $400,000 thats already been spent on preliminary engineering. Right-of-ways should be secured in 2019 and construction will start in 2020. Exit 111 Revise the interchange (Carolina Street, Valdese) at a cost of $3.61 million, plus an additional $250,000 for preliminary engineering. Right-of-ways will be secured in 2019 and construction will start in 2021. Exit 100 (Jamestown Road) Upgrade interchange at a cost of $2.42 million, plus an additional $250,000 for preliminary engineering. Right-of-ways will be secured in 2018 and construction will start in 2020. Exit 112 (Mineral Springs Mountain Road, Eldred Street) Construct interchange improvements at a cost of $16 million. Right-of-ways will be secured in 2022 and construction will start in 2024. Exit 116 (Old Highway NC 10) Upgrade interchange and remove two-way traffic at a cost of $14.8 million. Right-of-ways would be secured in 2022 and construction would start in 2024. Project information and materials can be found at www.ncdot.gov/projects/publicmeetings. For more information call Cole Hood, project engineer with NCDOT at 828-251-6171 ext.213 or email chood@ncdot.gov. Staff Writer Jonelle Bobak can be reached at jbobak@morganton.com or 828-432-8907. A Morganton man sentenced to 25 years in prison for a Burke County robbery and attempted murder was given an additional 20 years in McDowell in a similar case. Stacey Heatley, 44, of Pete Brittain Road, Morganton, was found guilty in McDowell County Superior Court of attempted first-degree murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon and felony breaking or entering. He was sentence to 240 to 300 months in prison consecutive to a previous judgment in Burke. On Dec. 8 of last year, Henry Parker, of Falling Waters Drive in Old Fort, reported at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8 that a male and two females came to his home, where they beat him with a sledgehammer and robbed him of his money. The suspects were listed as Heatley, 33-year-old Samantha Jean Moore of Morganton and 57-year-old Patricia Wellborn Hunley of Hickory. Parker was taken to McDowell Hospital for treatment of head and other injuries. In a near-identical case reported in the same week, Burke authorities responded to a mobile home park in the Salem area in reference to a man who had been beaten with a claw hammer. The victim in that case, 72-year-old Ronald Moody, of Octave Heights in Marion, sustained serious head injuries. According to Burke authorities in an initial news release, the suspects in this assault Heatley and Hunley allegedly fled the mobile home park taking the victims truck, phone and wallet. Moody was rushed to a Charlotte hospital to undergo brain surgery, where, as previously reported, he was said to have been in recovery. In the Moody case, Heatley pleaded guilty to robbery with a dangerous weapon; assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, inflicting serious injury; and attempted murder. He was sentenced to 305 months minimum, 378 months maximum in prison, given credit for 89 days time served ordered to pay $6,859.20 restitution to the victim. Hunley and Moores next appearance in McDowell is Nov. 27, while Hunleys next appearance in Burke is Nov. 13. The following cases were heard in McDowell County Superior Court during the week of Oct. 2: Mark Arrowood, 47, of Tomahawk Drive, Marion, was found guilty of possession of a firearm by a felon. He was sentenced to 14 to 26 months in prison. He was given credit for 281 days time served. Arrowood was also found guilty of attempted trafficking in methamphetamine. He was sentenced to two months in jail consecutive to previous judgment. He was given a 19 to 32 month suspended sentence. He must serve 36 months of supervised probation. He must pay court costs. Mishell Marie Brewer, 40, of Clinton Lane, Marion, was found guilty of three counts of breaking or entering and two counts of possession of stolen goods. She was sentenced to four months in jail. She was given credit for three days time served. She was given a six to 17 month suspended sentence. She must serve 36 months of supervised probation. She must pay $9,964 restitution to the victim. She must pay a court-appointed attorney $1,500. She must pay court costs. Jose Jovanna Camarena, 21, of Gaddy Road, Nebo, was found guilty of possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana. He was given credit for 35 days time served. He was given a six to 17 month suspended sentence. He must serve 30 months of supervised probation. He must pay court costs. Chaston Bryan Carson, 36, of Johnston School Road, Asheville, was found guilty of three counts of obtaining property under false pretense. For each count, he was given a 15- to 27-month suspended sentence and 36 months of supervised probation consecutive to each judgment. He must pay $4,885 restitution to the victim. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $780. He must pay court costs. Brett Alan Clontz, 26, of Davidson Drive, Asheville, was found guilty of possession of methamphetamine. He was given credit for 81 days time served. He was given a six to 17 month suspended sentence. He must serve 18 months of supervised probation. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $420. He must pay court costs. Leo Justin Curtis, 29, of Woodsong Drive, Old Fort, was found guilty of possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a schedule II controlled substance. He was given credit for 120 days time served. He was given a 10- to 21-month suspended sentence. He must serve 36 months of supervised probation. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $1,320. He must pay court costs. Curtis was also found guilty of possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver heroin. He was given credit for 118 days time served. He was given a 10- to 21-month suspended sentence and 36 months of supervised probation consecutive to previous judgment. Linda Christine Edwards, 52, of Airport Road, Marion, was found guilty of felony probation violation out of county. She was sentenced to 90 days in jail. Her probation was extended 12 months. Tracy Gentry, 51, of U.S. 70 East, Nebo, was found guilty of probation violation. Her probation was revoked. She was given credit for 85 days time served. Steve Edward Hamm, 45, of Jesse James Drive, Marion, was found guilty of two counts of obtaining property under false pretense. He was sentenced to 90 days in jail. James Andrew Johnson, 52, of Sugar Hill Road, Marion, was found guilty of felony probation violation out of county. His probation was revoked. He was given credit for 127 days time served. Elizabeth Elaine Kaping, 24, of Cherokee Way, Marion, was found guilty of possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a schedule II controlled substance. She was given a six- to 17-month suspended sentence. She must serve 24 months of supervised probation. She must pay a court-appointed attorney $1,200. She must pay court costs. Dana Fortune Laney, 27, of Numbs Knob Drive, Marion, was found guilty of possession of methamphetamine. She was given a six- to 17-month suspended sentence. She must serve 18 months of supervised probation. She must perform 72 hours of community service. She must pay court costs. Christopher Dwayne Lawing, 27, of Rockhouse Road, Marion, was found guilty of fleeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of methamphetamine and three counts of injury to real property. He was sentenced to 12 to 24 months in prison. He was given credit for 181 days time served. Caleb Lyons, 28, of Popover Drive, Marion, was found guilty of felony probation violation out of county. His probation was extended 12 months. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $420. Evita Faye Lyttle, 28, of Fairview Road, Marion, was found guilty of possession of methamphetamine. She was given a six- to 17-month suspended sentence. She must serve 18 months of supervised probation. She must perform 48 hours of community service. She must pay $600 restitution to the victim. She must pay court costs. Colden Maple, 21, of Pine Drive, Marion, was found guilty of assault with a deadly weapon with serious injury. He was given credit for 38 days time served. He was given a 25- to 42-month suspended sentence. He must serve 36 months of supervised probation. He must pay $8,277 restitution to the victim. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $660. He must pay court costs. Maple was also found guilty of common law robbery. He was given a 13 to 25 month suspended sentence consecutive to previous judgment. Christopher William Oglive, 36, of Pinnacle Church Road, Morganton, was found guilty of felony restraint. He was given credit for six months time served. He was given a 17- to 30-month suspended sentence. He must serve 36 months of supervised probation. He must not have contact with the victim. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $2,190. He must pay court costs. Oglive was also found guilty of fleeing or eluding arrest with a motor vehicle. He was given an eight- to 19-month suspended sentence and 36 months of supervised probation consecutive to previous judgment. Clay Alan Paramore, 21, of White Pine Drive, Marion, was found guilty of assault with a deadly weapon with serious injury. He was given a 25- to 42-month suspended sentence. He must serve 36 months of supervised probation. He must perform 72 hours of community service. He must pay $8,277.44 restitution to the victim. He must have contact with the victim. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $1,260. He must pay court costs. Paramore was also found guilty of common law robbery. He was given a 13- to 25-month suspended sentence and 36 months of supervised probation consecutive to previous judgment. April Dawn Ramsey, 36, of U.S. 221 South, Marion, was found guilty of felony possession of a schedule II controlled substance. She was given a six- to 17-month suspended sentence. She must serve 18 months of supervised probation. She must perform 72 hours of community service. She must pay court costs. Sierra Danielle Russell, 21, of Jacktown Road, Marion, was found guilty of felony possession of cocaine. She was given a six to 17 months suspended sentence. She must serve 18 months of supervised probation. She must perform 72 hours of community service. She must pay a court-appointed attorney $540. She must pay court costs. Rachel Stancil, 31, of Humpback Mountain Road, Spruce Pine, was found guilty of possession of methamphetamine. She was given credit for six days time served. She was given a six- to 17-month suspended sentence. She must serve 18 months of supervised probation. She must pay a court-appointed attorney $540. She must pay court costs. Roger McKinley Ward, 26, of Mudcut Road, Marion, was found guilty of felony possession of a schedule II controlled substance. He was sentenced to four months in jail. He was given credit for six days time served. He was given a six- to 17-month suspended sentence. He must serve 24 months of supervised probation. He must pay a court-appointed attorney $300. He must pay court costs. Margot A. Withrow, 54, of U.S. 70 East, Nebo, was found guilty of misdemeanor probation violation. Her probation was revoked. Tomoka Shenee Young, 38, of Dwight Berry Drive, Marion, was found guilty of attempting to burn personal property. She was sentenced to seven to 18 months in prison. She was given credit for 210 days time served. FTSE 100 income stalwart National Grid (NG.), which manages the UKs electricity and gas infrastructure, has been downgraded by Morningstar equity analysts. We have reduced our fair value estimate to 990p a share from 10.50 due to higher capital expenditure estimates and lower earnings estimates for the US regulated activities because of higher operating costs. The stock, which boasts a dividend yield of over 5%, is currently trading at 919p. National Grid is rated as a four-star stock, which means that it is undervalued relative to its peer group. If National Grid achieves no cost efficiencies, it would cut our cash flow estimate by 6% and reduce our fair value estimate by 30p a share. We downgraded our moat rating which indicates that the company has a slender competitive advantage - from narrow to none on our lack of confidence that National Grid can consistently realise returns on capital greater than its cost of capital. The historical rate-setting structures which determine how much utilities can charge customers - in the US are a key drag on return on invested capital (ROIC) going forward, especially as National Grid invests heavily in the US during the next three to four years. In the US, National Grid has struggled to keep pace with its allowed returns and regularly earns 2-to-3% less than its UK operations. We assume that the new regulatory regime for gas and electricity transmission in the UK from 2022 will be roughly in line with the current one albeit with less generous incentives. National Grid's aggressive investment plan during the next decade should not jeopardise its investment-grade rating, given the favourable regulation in place, particularly in the United Kingdom. Still, we expect cash from operations to be too low to fund the rest of the capital spending programme so the group will have to issue new debt. It introduced a scrip dividend where investors receive new shares instead of a dividend - in 2013 but plans to repurchase shares in line with the take-up. National Grids most recent regulatory filing suggests the company has repurchased about 280 million of shares, or about two thirds of its minimum plan for 2017. The company has an agreement to spend 425 million on repurchases by the end of December, but management might ramp up its pace to meet its goal of returning all of the capital by the end of its March 2018 fiscal year. National Grid has lowered its cost of debt to an average 3.7% from 5.2% since 2014. We forecast an average 1.2 billion of new debt issues based on management's investment plan. 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. Construction Numbers Look Much Better Broken Down by State It has been a rather dismal spring and summer for construction, one in which permitting has declined in three out of the last four months. Going more granular, however, a report from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) finds that residential permitting, and thus construction, is picking up steam in many states. The Census Bureau releases two separate reports covering aspects of residential construction each month. The one MND readers are most familiar with is the Residential Construction Report which provides details on the issuing of building permits, housing starts, and unit completions. It is based on the Survey of Construction and is partially funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The second report focuses primarily on permits and presents data from the Building Permits Survey (BPS). The methodology behind the two surveys differs and so does the level of reporting. The Residential Construction Report presents data on a nationwide basis and for each of the four regions; the results of the BPS are available at state and local levels. Danushka Nanayakkara-Skillington, in a post in the NAHB's Eye on Housing blog, digs down into that state level BPS data and finds that that most states are showing strength on a year-over-year basis. Unfortunately, her analysis is ragged as she inexplicably shifts the basis of the discussion between year-over-year and year-to-date. First, she looked at year-to-date data (through August) for both 2016 and 2017, and found both the BPS and the SOC reporting roughly similar numbers on a nationwide basis. The SOC counted 875,500 permits year-to-date, up 7.5 percent from the same period in 2016; the BPS number was 852,825, a 7.7 percent increase. Switching to year-over-year numbers, she reports that between August 2016 and August 2017, 37 states and the District of Columbia saw growth in the total number of permits issued. In twenty-two states and the District of Columbia that growth exceeded 7.7 percent while 13 states had a decline in growth. Montana topped the list at 31.9 percent while Maryland only grew by 0.7 percent. The 13 states that lost ground were led by Connecticut with a 20.5 percent decrease. Ten states accounted for nearly 55 percent of all permits issued; Texas, Florida, California, North Carolina, Georgia, Washington, Colorado, Tennessee, New York, and Arizona. However, when the size of the state was muted by reporting permits on a per capita basis, the picture shifts. Over the eight months ending in August 2017, the total number of single-family permits issued nationwide according to the BPS reached 561,938. This is 10.1 percent ahead of its level over the first eight months of 2016 with 510,590 permits. The results from the SOC are similar, single-family permits over the first eight months of 2017 numbered 564,000, up 10.7 percent from the 509,600 issued over the same period in 2016. At the state level, the author found 43 states and the District of Columbia with growth in single-family permitting between August 2016 to August 2017. Similar to total permits, 22 states recorded a growth above 10.1% but seven states had a decline in growth. Hawaii had the highest growth rate during this time at 28.2% while North Dakota declined by 8.3%. In the single-family sector, Texas led with 79,236 permits issued year-to-date in August 2017, while the lowest number came from the District of Columbia with 251 permits. Nine of the top ten permitting states also led in single-family permits, with South Carolina taking Washington's place. Adjusted for population, the leading states again shift. According to the BPS where were 290,998 multi-family permits issued nationwide through August 2017 compared to 280,923 during the same period in 2016, an increase of 3.5 percent. The SOC reports 293,000 multi-family permits over the eight-month period, 2.0 percent more than the 287,900 issued in 2016. Between August 2016 to August 2017, 26 states and the District of Columbia increased this permitting while 25 states recorded a decline. Twenty-four states and the District of Columbia recorded a growth above 3.5% with Mississippi leading the way with a growth of 185%, from 327 to 932, while Rhode Island had the largest decline of 71.7%. While Texas issued the most multi-family permits year-to-date, they are ninth on a per-capita basis, dwarfed by the District of Columbia which had twice the activity of second-place Colorado. Despite its dramatic increase, Mississippi still only issued 0.2 permits per thousand people. Wire Fraud, MBI and LEP Products; HMDA Stats; The Fed's Leadership Does the Fed Chairman make a difference? Yes. Taylor and Powells names continue to be mentioned, although Trump is set to interview Janet Yellen Thursday. It wouldnt surprise anyone if Janet Yellen was being given the boot, unfortunately. Trump must decide whether to risk jarring the markets to ensure deregulation. After all, she is an Obama appointee, and Donald Trump has shown disdain for all things Obama. (More on Yellen in the capital markets section below.) Products and Conferences In correspondent news, AmeriHome's Correspondent Scratch and Dent Program continues to help originators sell loans with origination defects. The AmeriHome program is designed to save clients time and money shopping for buyers and negotiating new contracts by having AmeriHome handle these transactions. A sampling of the issues that can be priced include DTI/Income/loan amounts, investor overlays, TRID/compliance, incomplete documentation, uninsurable loans, and non-agency jumbo fallout. AmeriHome is an industry-leader in service and operational support and is committed to providing the same accurate and timely communication on your S&D business. If interested, please contact your AmeriHome Correspondent Sales Representative (or email CLsales@amerihome.com) and add our direct email snd@amerihome.com to your email distributions. Planet Home Lending continues to expand the product lineup for its growing correspondent customer base with the addition of FHA 203(h) loans and a new jumbo program. Customers serving natural disaster victims in the Gulf states, California, and elsewhere can use 203(h) to help renters and homeowners rebuild or buy in a new location. Planet's 203(h) offers 100% financing, FICOs to 500, financed closing costs, and no minimum borrower contribution. Planet has also added a correspondent jumbo program with purchase and refis to $2.5 million with LTVs to 80%, and cash-outs to $1.5 million. Make the Connection to great loans - contact Jim Loving (414.270.0027). "A common discussion during the beginning of conference season seems to be centering around truly digitizing the entire workflow, to include automating the calculation and validation of income. Just as it was at the Digital Mortgage Conference in San Francisco, it is likely to continue into this year's MBA Annual in Denver. LoanBeam's automated income extraction and calculation technology solves the dilemma facing modern mortgage lenders - most of their borrowers' income cannot be validated with digital data sources, especially those with complex income streams. LoanBeam provides a solution that can convert any income document into a digital output capable of being calculated automatically and assimilated into their process flow, today." The release of the 2016 HMDA data revealed overall product trends in the market, according to Richey May's free HMDA Market Share Dashboard. Conventional loan volume increased 20%, in line with the overall increase of 19%, while FHA volume lagged with a 9% increase, and VA volume reflected a robust 38% increase. Overall purchases represented 49% of the market, with strong purchase markets in Texas (63%), Florida (63%) and New York (64%), while refis, representing 47% of the market, were strongest In California (61%). Overall production volume increases were strongest in the western United States, with Washington (29%) leading the nation. For even more data points relevant to your business, check out Richey May's dynamic HMDA Market Share Dashboard. The Cost-To-Originate a loan has skyrocketed over the past decade, as operational productivity has fallen off a cliff. Outsourcing your back-office processes to String Real Estate Information Services can help you solve these issues right away. String supports the mortgage origination life cycle from app to close: processing support, pre-underwriting, closing review and post-closing. We can help shorten your cycle time, turn your fixed costs into variable costs, and improve your margins by up to 20%. If you're attending the MBA Annual Convention in Denver, schedule a meeting with us to learn how String can improve your P&L within 30 days or less. Multiple studies have shown that your borrower experience, above any other factor, drives your business forward. Technology has become a critical expectation to a positive borrower experience. Lightweight borrower-facing tools are the answer for LOs looking to transform the borrower experience. Leading the charge is Maxwell, awarded HousingWire's 100 Most Innovative Companies for 2017. The secure digital portal provides automated document collection with direct integrations of thousands of financial institutions (even automated paystubs!), a fully customizable online loan application, white labeling, LOS integrations, and agent milestone notifications and borrower reminders via email and text/SMS. It's no surprise Maxwell has been chosen by hundreds of lenders to drive their business forward! All of this starts at only $99/month per LO with free accounts for team members. To learn more and request a demo, visit www.himaxwell.com Lenders and settlement agents, I've written about wire fraud in the past. This is the $2-billion-dollar problem that goes unmitigated for many in our space. ATS Secured has a wire fraud solution that easily integrates with your existing workflow and systems, and reduces costs, and closing times. "Wire fraud at the originating or settlement level is up 1,300% since 2015. And the average loss is $100,000," says Jay Michalowski, Senior Managing Director at ATS Secured. "Our solutions mitigate this fraud and risk for our clients." From verifying and authenticating every signer and approver, to validating all wire instructions, to secure messaging and connectivity directly to escrow companies, ATS guarantee your wires and funds get to the right destination. Speak with ATS Secured at the MBA's Annual Convention and make your trip to Denver productive. Contact Jay Michalowski to pre-arrange a meeting. ATS Secured: Sophisticated tools to combat today's sophisticated crime. The MBA stated that limited English proficiency (LEP) could create a liability for lenders since this is a key priority for many regulators. A CFPB official said, "If every loan application had a talk'uments file, our job (CFPB) would be done." Available in ENGLISH and SPANISH, talk'uments is a new consumer information delivery model that displays borrower specific loan data through interactive loan and disclosure technology - from pre-sale through loan closing. Talk'uments increases loan originations, as it eliminates LEP risk and cuts compliance, legal and regulatory costs for all mortgage transactions, and, by providing market ready borrowers with what they want - interactive loan information specific to their loan request (i.e. Loan Product Info, LE and CD review, Application & Closing Docs explanations, and Borrower Responsibilities). Talk'uments is the first of its kind in the field of interactive loan and disclosure technology. For more information or to visit with talk'uments at the national MBA conference (booth 1322), contact George Baker. Corridor Mortgage's Regional Vice President - Rick Trott has found a formula for "doing more with less - closing more loans with the same amount of people." Trott has been able to eliminate unnecessary manual processes and automate repetitive tasks during the loan origination cycle using mortgage business intelligence (MBI) technology. Like hundreds of other lenders, Corridor Mortgage is leveraging the power of MBI to transform their lending operation and "deliver a better experience for the loan officers" through improved visibility and better control over their mortgage pipeline. Motivity's leading MBI solution minimizes the amount of time, money and resources required to implement this technology. As the mortgage industry's most comprehensive MBI toolset, it delivers pre-configured insights and dashboards providing deep visibility into every aspect of the loan origination process. Learn more about how Corridor Mortgage and hundreds of other lenders are using MBI to gain a competitive advantage. Training and Upcoming Events Have you mapped out your pathway to success for 2018? Sign up for Business Planning, the next ENERGY Webinar from XINNIX, The Mortgage Academy on Wednesday, November 8 at 2PM ET. No matter where you are in your career, from a rookie to a branch manager, every mortgage professional needs to develop a strategy for the upcoming year. This webinar will give you the tools you need to create, implement, and review your business plan so you can elevate your production to new heights in 2018! Click here to sign up today! Of course, there is the big MBA shindig in Denver. Has anyone noticed that conferences are now eating into our weekends? That aside, it should be a grand conference. Are you signed up for the TMBA 67th Annual Educational Marketplace Mortgage Education & Dialogue? Registration is still under way for MED Talks November 6th & 7th at the Marriott Legacy Town Center in Plano Texas. The CMLA's Luncheon on November 16th will discuss "Colorado Marijuana Grows Unintended Consequences" with guest speaker Detective M. Adam Hughes. This program covers the new meth houses and the destruction being done in neighborhoods, the marijuana black market and obstacles and dangers for law enforcement. Registration deadline is November 13th. National MI presents "Advanced Self-Employed Borrower" on November 9. This session is a deep dive into the various schedules and tax code rules that impact a borrower's income and come into play when underwriting the self-employed borrower. It will help if registrants have taken the basic Self-Employed Borrower course, but it is not required. Presented by Marianne Collins of Diehl Mortgage Training and Compliance. And NMI offers "Multigenerational Marketing" on November 14. One size doesn't fit all when it comes to marketing to Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Millennials. This session will introduce key insights into, and parallels between these generations to help participants broaden the appeal of their marketing, and create the most effective multigenerational strategy. Presented by Kristin Messerli of Cultural Outreach. Capital Markets Financial markets don't like uncertainty. And right now there is uncertainty regarding the leadership of the Federal Reserve, the most powerful economic position in the world. Chair Yellen's appointed term is up next year, but the Trump Administration has thrown the job up in the air: who will it appoint? Chair Yellen has had a sure but steady hand in running the Fed during difficult times. With a less skilled leader the Fed could have become much more divided and less decisive. Instead of that path, the Fed, under Yellen's leadership, has moved forward. Her grasp is excellent that the Fed impacts both the poor and the rich through its macro and regulatory policies. She has walked a fine line between government influence and the needs of the private sector. It will not be easy going forward. The Trump Administration is still calling for large budget deficits in an economy that many believe is close to full employment. In a highly politicized environment marked by extreme uncertainty, the nation needs a calm hand, expertise, and wisdom. I hope that President Trump doesn't do away with Janet Yellen merely because she is an Obama appointee. In fact, U.S. Treasuries began the week down yesterday after it was reported that President Trump was impressed with John Taylor's interview for the Fed Chair post. Current Chair Janet Yellen's turn in Thursday. Across the pond, reports indicate that the European Central Bank's governing council is deeply divided on announcing a fixed end date for the asset purchase program. Today's data includes September Import Prices and Export Prices (import prices +.7%, strong, exports +.8%), September Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization, and the October NAHB Housing Market Index. Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker, a FOMC voter, will speak later this morning. We start Tuesday with rates a shade higher than Monday's close: the 10-year is yielding 2.31% and agency MBS prices are down/worse slightly. Jobs and Business Opportunities An independent mortgage banker is looking to sell its corporation. The corporation has had HUD Full Eagle approval since 2008 and VA approval since 2011 and is in excellent standing. This sale would be for HUD and VA licensing purposes. Interested parties may contact me directly to forward their note. "Interested in joining a stable and secure lender with a 30+ year history of success? Embrace Home Loans is looking for self-sourced, purchase focused Branch Managers, Sales Managers, and Loan Officers. Embrace has been recognized for the fifth straight year by Inc. as one of the Fastest Growing Companies in America, making it an excellent career option. For 10 straight years Embrace has achieved a 98% Customer Service Rating and has been recognized by Fortune no less than seven times as one of the Top 25 Mid-size Companies to Work for in America. Licensed in 46 states plus DC, Embrace ranks as one of the top private mortgage lenders in America. If you're interested in working with a supportive, dynamic, and productive company, contact Patrick Mullen, Director of Recruiting, or check out Join Embrace. Embrace your future - join our team today!" This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Members of the Midland business community had the opportunity on Monday to discuss impacts of tax reform with U.S. Rep. Mike Conaway. The lawmaker said he will take messages from the roundtable discussion to Washington. Small businesses have a different perspective on the world, Conaway said. Theyve got limited resources [with] which to react to new regulatory schemes or whatever is going on. So these are the hands-on folks that are going to have to live with whatever we do. The congressman spoke for about one hour with representatives from local businesses as well as the Midland Chamber of Commerce, Midland Development Corp. and the Small Business Development Center at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. The roundtable discussion, which was closed to the media, occurred after the group toured Susies South Forty Confections. Enrique Romero is regional director of the SBDC, which offers assistance to people wanting to start or expand small businesses. He said small businesses form the backbone of the economy and that simplifying the tax system can allow owners to focus on their ventures. It will allow us to let small businesses know that theres help from the federal government that theres assistance out there, said Romero, who participated in the roundtable discussion. The governments trying to do something to help small business owners and not make their life a lot more difficult. Conaway said before the meeting that he hoped to answer questions and hear thoughts about the impact lower taxes would have on local businesses. The congressman previously addressed the topic at recent town hall meetings in Midland and Odessa. He said tax reform is an issue that permeates the economy. Every person in America has some impact from the tax code, whether business or individually, Conaway said. My personal background [is as] a CPA; I have a keen interest in that as well. The Midland Republican said the current tax code is a burden on the economy and that changes will help it to grow at a faster pace. Conaway said lawmakers have discussed tax reform as well as how it will look. He said more conversations could happen after the Senate completes its budget and that questions remain about specifics related to topics such as tax brackets and deductions. Those granular details, getting to know those, [are] just at the front of everybodys mind at this point, he said. Conaway stopped at the candy factory before going to UTPB, where he presented to the John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Institute Public Papers of the Presidents, which were donated by the Library of Congress. Two Midland ISD campus administrators received Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Associations honors at the Region 18 Education Service Centers Conference Center in Midland last week. Bunche Elementary Principal Sha Burdsal Hartzer was recognized as Region 18 TEPSAN of the Year, and Travis Elementary Assistant Principal Linda Silvas was honored as Region 18 Assistant Principal of the Year. Burdsal Hartzer began teaching in 1990 at Lubbock Cooper ISD as a special education teacher. She transferred to Ector County ISD in 1992, and during the next 11 years, she taught special education, fourth and sixth grades. She became the assistant principal at Cameron Dual Language Magnet School in 2003 and was named principal the following year. Burdsal Hartzer came to Midland ISD as principal of Houston Elementary in 2007. Before being named principal at Bunche Elementary, she also was principal at Travis Elementary. Silvas began her educational career with Ozona ISD as a reading interventionist and junior high math teacher and then transferred to Van Horn ISD where she taught kindergarten and second grade. Silvas spent 23 years teaching at Midland ISD -- ESL at Lamar Elementary and bilingual third grade at Crockett Elementary. Before becoming assistant principal at Travis, she served as assistant principal at South, Crockett, Santa Rita and Lamar elementaries. Education is an incredible gift that can change the world one precious mind at a time, said Superintendent Orlando Riddick said in a press release from the district. We are exceptionally proud of Principal Burdsal and Assistant Principal Silvas who work tirelessly each and every day to provide the gift of education to our students. Their compassion and dedication to nurturing and enhancing the classroom experience is unwavering, and we are sincerely thankful for both of these remarkable educators. Thirty years ago on October 16, 1987, millions of Americans rejoiced when 18-month-old Jessica McClure was pulled up from an eight-inch-wide well pipe in Midland, Texas, after being stuck for more than 58 hours. After the toddler fell 22 feet down into the well in her aunt's backyard, she was without food or water for more than two and half days. Over the 58 hours she was stuck, TV stations and newspapers continued to cover the potentially fatal incident and America was grasped by the images. GET OUR APP Our Spectrum News app is the most convenient way to get the stories that matter to you. Download it here. With about 80 percent of Puerto Rico without power and many still waiting in long lines for food, water, and cash, families are leaving the island in droves and landing in Central Florida, which is creating an influx of school-aged children in the area. 345 newly enrolled students in Osceola due to storm displacement 265 of those students came from Puerto Rico School board seeking relief in funding, staffing to help with influx of students In Osceola County 345 new students have enrolled as a result of the three hurricanes: Harvey, Irma, and Maria. Of that number, 268 students came from Puerto Rico. Myraida Herrera came to Kissimmee from Puerto Rico with her four children. At 10 years old, Grace is her oldest, she recalls her home getting flooded with about four feet of water. The clothes, my house was flooded and the furniture, she said. The Herreras were at the Hurricane Maria Service Center in Kissimmee on Monday afternoon for hours, trying to get assistance. One worry on Myraida's mind was quickly getting her kids enrolled in school. I feel like my kids got behind in their classes because they couldn't really attend school in Puerto Rico, Myraida told us in Spanish. I don't want anymore delays and I want them to start soon so they dont become affected. Osceola County Schools said they will be checking in on hurricane-affected families to make sure they have acclimated to their new settings. Osceola School District Board Member Ricky Booth told us he's written a letter to Gov. Rick Scott seeking relief in funding and staffing due to the influx. Osceola Schools is also encouraging adults relocating to the area to apply for positions within the district as teachers, support staff, and bus drivers, which will be needed to accommodate the influx. Oct. 18, 1937: Miss Geraldine Marrs is receiving treatment for injuries she received yesterday when the car in which she was riding colliding with one driven by Jimmie Heard. --Mrs. W.W. Kurfees, cooperator in the Bellview Home Demonstration Club, says that the seedling peach trees are much more certain to make fruits in this section of the state. --Mrs. E.M. Osborne presided when the Browning Club met Saturday afternoon with Mrs. Dave Collier. Oct. 18, 1957: D.A. Glenn, 42, of Plainview was fatally wounded this morning by a charge from a 16-gauge automatic shotgun in the left side of his chest. Investigation is ongoing. --Fern Vestal heads the organization of Future Teachers of America at Plainview High School. --Plainview High School seniors will hold a coronation for the queen on Nov. 26. Candidates are Lynda Childress, Mardula McWilliams and Jeanie Ellerd. Oct. 18, 1977: James Rogers, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce Agricultural Committee, presented Reagan V. Brown, Texas commissioner of agriculture, a certificate of honorary Plainview citizenship. --Mr. and Mrs. Gene Ridlehuber, owners of Bearings and Industrial Supply Inc., have returned from a power transmission distributors convention in San Francisco. --Lanny Voss, Plainview lawyer, spoke on Americanism on Wednesday at the first meeting of the new year of the Mary McCoy Baines Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Oct. 18, 1987: Bonnes Aimies, a gift, accessories and design shop at 2111 W. Fifth, is having its grand opening today. Venita McGavock is owner. --Ash students began writing to U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye when they read about him on Sept. 23. They received a letter from Inouye replying to the students. --Four heroes, Nancy Parra, Shane Collie, Jennifer Gresham and Alex Macias, were selected by teachers and supporting staff at Highland and honored at a reserved table at McDonalds Restaurant with a reward and recognition luncheon. HARTFORD Lawmakers said they hope to know by Wednesday afternoon if they are closing in on a bipartisan budget agreement, although they stopped short of labeling it a firm deadline. We have an aggressive day ahead of us tomorrow, Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin, said after emerging from budget negotiations Tuesday with the leaders of the other three legislative caucuses. Lawmakers have scheduled another meeting Wednesday morning, lasting until roughly 2:30 p.m., and hope that they can emerge with a deal in place. They said talks wouldnt necessarily come to halt if no deal is reached by that time, but House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, R-Derby, admitted they need deadlines as a way to keep negotiations moving. The four of us could intellectually and policy-wise discuss this for the next six months, because this is what we do, she said. Wednesday also marks the 110th day into the fiscal year without a budget, and Connecticut continues to operate under an executive order. Lawmakers renewed bipartisan talks after Gov. Dannel P. Malloy vetoed the Republican budget, which the legislature adopted on Sept. 15. Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, said the legislative leaders still have a list of 10 items that need further discussion. Weve had conversations on every single one of these items, but they are very delicate items within each of our caucuses, he said. Fasano declined to identify the issues publicly because they remain unresolved. Even if the legislative leaders are able to emerge from Wednesdays meeting with a budget in place, they said it would likely take a week before any vote could take place. The leaders would still need to present the full details to each of their caucuses, as well as to Malloy. Leaders cut Malloy out of talks almost two weeks ago, and the governor presented his own revised budget, his fourth, Tuesday. Fasano said he thinks Malloys budget does not have a prayer for getting achievable votes for a majority in either chamber. Aresimowicz said Malloys opinion has always been taken into consideration, but leaders also said their priority has been on reaching an agreement they believe their caucus members will accept. We dont talk about whether this governor likes it or does not like it thats not whats important right now, Fasano said. msavino@record-journal.com 203-317-2266 Twitter: @reporter_savino MERIDEN A law firm has concluded that City Manager Guy Scaife did not violate city policies during the selection process for a workers compensation administrator, though Scaife did create the appearance of favoritism by meeting with the vendor that was ultimately awarded the contract. The City Council reviewed the investigations findings during a closed-door executive session Monday night and also completed Scaifes performance review, which had been on hold since August pending the completion of the investigation. On Sept. 1, the city switched from PMA Companies to Connecticut Interlocal Risk Management Agency following a selection process which initially showed PMA to be less expensive. However, the city opted to go with CIRMA after citing customer service deficiencies with PMA. Scaife met with officials from CIRMA on Jan. 4 while the selection was still underway. The citys corporation counsel, attorney Michael Quinn, hired the law firm Berchem, Moses & Devlin on Aug. 16 to investigate if Scaife had violated city policies and if Scaifes contact with the winning company could invalidate the process. The investigation is estimated to have cost $18,100. Quinn said he chose to bring in an outside law firm because City Attorney Deborah Moore had served on the selection committee and the citys legal department should not arbitrate disputes among employees. Attorney Paula Anthony conducted interviews with city employees, including Scaife, Purchasing Officer Wilma Petro, Moore, Finance Director Michael Lupkas, Economic Development Director Juliet Burdelski and Human Resources Director Marci Nogueira, in addition to CIRMA employees Terry Perry and Bruce Clinger and attorney Thomas Weaver. Representatives from PMA do not appear to have been interviewed as part of the investigation. The review laid out a timeline of events and examined Scaifes actions. The city released a request for proposals for the citys self-insured workers compensation program on Oct. 14, 2016, about five weeks after Scaife was hired. Scaife met with CIRMA representatives on Jan. 4 to discuss, among other topics, the potential to bundle services for further savings. Burdelski was called into that meeting to discuss possible office space in the city for CIRMA, which planned to move from its New Haven offices. The City Charter stipulates that during an RFP process, All such contracts shall be awarded to the lowest responsible person, provided, however, if it is deemed by the City Manager to be in the best interest of the City to reject all such bids or proposals, or to otherwise award such contract, such contract shall be awarded in conformity through bid waiver procedure. After conducting interviews and reviewing documents and records, Anthony concluded evidence does not support Scaife violated the citys procurement policies and procedures during the selection process, nor did Scaifes January meeting result in impermissible favoritism so as to invalidate the RFP process. Scaife did not violate the citys Code of Ethics, nor did he have any direct or indirect personal interest in CIRMAs selection. Scaifes January meeting was not concealed, Anthony notes. However, there is sufficient evidence to support the conclusion that the contact between Scaife and CIRMA created the appearance of preferential treatment, and was not in accordance with best practices relative to the competitive process so as to ensure all prospective bidders and proposers are on equal footing in seeking City business, Anthony states. Even the appearance of favoritism is to be avoided at all costs and the publics confidence in the integrity of the procurement maintained. It is recommended that in the future, contact with prospective vendors be avoided during the competitive process, except as necessary for the conduct of existing city business, even on matters unrelated to the pending bid or request for proposal. Anthony recommended that in the future, all contact with companies during the process should be made through Petro. Quinn said he was pleased with Anthonys work on the investigation. I stand by her conclusion, Quinn said. Scaife said he was glad Anthonys report cleared him of wrongdoing, adding the facts speak for themselves. Scaife did, however, raise concerns regarding the length and cost of the investigation, questioning why the City Charter, Code of Ordinances and Purchasing Guidelines were not reviewed internally prior to the probe being launched. I believe most citizens would expect the most basic level of internal due diligence be completed prior to this type financial commitment, Scaife wrote in a statement. It should not take 26 pages of written investigative narrative at an estimated cost of $18,100 to tell us what our documents say and it should not take 2 months to figure this out. While acknowledging his conduct during the RFP process could have created an appearance of preferential treatment if you did not know the facts, Scaife said that the January meeting with CIRMA directly led to the eventual $534,000 savings in the FY18 budget, due to a competitive bid being issued by CIRMA and HD Segur, the citys auto, property and liability insurer. City Council Majority Leader Brian Daniels said he was not surprised by the outcome of the investigation. The entire process was very transparent, I think attorney Anthony said it in her report, Daniels said. I think her conclusions were correct. Minority Leader Dan Brunet also anticipated the reports findings and said a similar sequence of events had already been relayed to Council leadership by Scaife. I had no doubt the result would show no intent although there could be a perception by those looking to create issues with the city manager, Brunet said. The prolonged nature of the so-called investigation was a distraction from all the positives that are taking place. The council also completed its performance review of Scaife Monday night. Although a motion to add a resolution to give Scaife a raise based on his performance failed, the council will still be able to add it to the next meetings agenda as a formal item. Daniels said he would be in favor of giving Scaife a rate increase. Guy had a good first year. I think it was a good transition period. I think he identified a number of areas in the citys operations that had room for improvement. He works extremely hard, Daniels said. ltauss@record-journal.com 203-317-2231 Twitter: @LeighTaussRJ Residents of the rugged terrain in the Santa Cruz Mountains are well aware of the natural challenges earthquakes, mudslides and wildfires that are part of the trade-off for living among the firs, redwoods and creeks on the tranquil hillside. But for 65-year-old Morgan Hope of Deer Creek Estates, Monday night marked the first time in two decades of living there that danger had come close enough to drive her from her home. Its a call you always expect to come, but hope never does, Hope said as she sat in the Zayante Fire Protection District station in Felton, which was turned into an evacuation center early Tuesday morning. She was jostled awake before dawn by a reverse 911 call ordering her to leave immediately. In the darkness, Morgan and a group of neighbors scrambled into their cars and steered down the winding, narrow roads toward safety. With the devastation in Sonoma and Napa counties fresh in mind, they went straight to evacuation centers in Felton and Los Gatos where Red Cross volunteers waited with coffee, water, and doughnuts. Some said they would have ignored the warnings were it not for the historic destruction wrought by the fires 100 miles to the north. I thought it was a joke at first, said Hauslley Silva, a 39-year-old Las Cumbres resident, who also evacuated Monday night. So far, the Bear Fire above Santa Cruz has been much less damaging than the worst of the Wine Country fires just four structures have been burned, though it is unclear where exactly the damage was or if it was in homes or other structures like sheds and garages, said Rob Sherman, an assistant fire chief at Cal Fire. Winds were light throughout much of the day, and were not badly fanning the flames like they often have during the Wine Country fires. About 150 homes were threatened by the blaze, which officials said broke out in a building around 10:30 p.m. near Bear Canyon and Deer Creek roads in Boulder Creek. Investigators did not name a cause. The fire had consumed 200 acres by Tuesday afternoon, and the mountainous terrain made the battle challenging the only access points on the ground for fire trucks are unstable and narrow dirt roads, many of which were badly eroded during last winters mudslides. Were making decent progress, but it is very steep and very inaccessible, Sherman said. Were doing our best. Some residents noted that the evacuation early Tuesday came on an infamous date the 28th anniversary of the the Loma Prieta earthquake, which was named for Loma Prieta Peak in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just to the east of the quakes epicenter. En route to savaging much of the Bay Area to the north, that quake destroyed much of downtown Santa Cruz and caused landslides through the mountainous region, including the territory the Bear Fire is blazing through. As she sat in the Zayante shelter where about 40 residents circled in and out throughout the night Morgan and her neighbor Patti Wilbur expressed frustration at the lack of information they had on the status of their home. Were just sitting here, Morgan said. Waiting. In downtown Boulder Creek, life seemed to go about as normal. Coffee shops and stores were open while people walked their dogs in the town. Few people were seen in the nearby evacuation centers. In one center in Los Gatos at the Lakeside Elementary School, children wearing backpacks skipped into the building early Tuesday morning for a full day of class. The manager of the downtown Merrybrook Lodge, Raj Patel, said he could see and smell the smoke although the fire was a couple of miles away. He said two of his lodging guests were packing their cars and planning to leave early. Fires are part of life, he said. What can we do? Its Mother Nature. I hope the fire stays small and under control. As afternoon morphed into evening, Sherman said he was grateful that the winds had not yet picked up. But as he spoke, a light breeze started in the mountains. Even the slightest amount of wind can erase any progress theyve made, he said. Tricia Thadani and J.K. Dineen are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com, jkdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @triciathadani, @sfjkdineen Even as an army of firefighters gained a firm upper hand on the wildland blazes that have flattened huge swaths of Wine Country, the disaster took its first fire crew victim Monday: a firefighter helping keep the stubborn Nuns Fire away from homes. The unidentified contract firefighter died just before sunrise near the northern edge of the fire, northwest of Yountville, when the water tanker he was driving downhill on Oakville Grade near Highway 29 rolled over. His death brought to 41 the number of people killed in the Northern California wildfires that started Oct. 8. The firefighter was among 11,000 firefighters from around California and beyond who have been working the lines. They made striking progress Monday containing the infernos: In Sonoma County, the Tubbs Fire is at 36,432 acres and 75 percent contained; in Napa County, the Atlas Fire is at 51,064 acres and 70 percent contained; and the Nuns Fire, which is straddling the Napa-Sonoma county line, is 51,512 acres and 53 percent contained. President Trump, who has not visited the disaster scene, on Monday praised his administrations response. We have FEMA there. We have military there. We have first responders there, he said in Washington. Its a tragic situation. We are working very closely from the representatives from California, and were doing a good job. Meanwhile, hundreds of residents returned home as more evacuation orders were lifted in Santa Rosa, rural Sonoma County, Napa and other areas throughout the burn zone. In some cases, people who werent yet allowed in felt they were done waiting, so they found ways around roadblocks. Robb Hunt was one of them. Frustrated that part of Kenwood was still barred from re-entry along Highway 12, he sneaked into his home, on 3.5 acres, via back roads. He had a cat, recently rescued after a Lake County fire, to feed. Besides, some neighbors who had stayed behind were complaining that they had run out of fresh food. Hunt needed to make a delivery. We sat down and had some gin and tonics last night, Hunt said. Much further up the coast in Mendocino County, where the Redwood Valley Fire still covered 35,800 acres but was 50 percent contained, all 8,000 evacuees have been allowed back into the ravaged areas to see their homes, or what remains of them, said Sheriff Tom Allman. According to Cal Fire, the flames destroyed 436 single-family homes and 227 other structures in Mendocino County. Were very comfortable with where the fire is at right now, Cal Fire Chief Ken Pimlott said at a news conference at the county Administration Building in Ukiah. Firefighters are strengthening the fire lines. We want a good, solid line around the perimeter of the fire. The most intensive firefighting efforts in the region Monday were focused on the sprawling Nuns Fire, which continued to expand along its western boundary, just south of St. Helena. Residents in that area were warned to be ready to leave. In one town, Rutherford, people adapted uneasily to the current reality of their fabled Wine Country valley while a steady flow of helicopters flew overhead and fire engines crisscrossed the area outside town. Angelica Roessert, 22, said shed grown used to the staccato of helicopter blades. But the fire was closer than it had been the week before, and she and her boyfriend, Rene Ortiz, 30, decided to drive south to Monterey. I dont feel safe here anymore, Roessert said. Just looking up that way, its scary. At the St. Helena Cooperative Nursery School in Rutherford, 13-year-old Mazzy Jones had watercolors spread in front of her and an open pad of paper. While her mother taught preschool inside the little white wooden schoolhouse, Jones painted the landscape ribbons of thick gray and white smoke streaming from the tops of trees, coalescing in heavy clouds hanging low over the ridgeline to the west. Amid all this, the weather forecast for this week was cause for optimism. It includes the chance of rain. The weather was better than it was predicted, Deputy Brandon Jones of the Sonoma County Sheriffs Office said Monday. We had no significant flare-ups and no evacuations. The word from the front lines it was a good evening out there. Throughout the day, the Nuns Fire filled the air with thick smoke along the ridges lining Highway 29 in central Napa Valley as it pushed downhill. There was a voluntary rather than mandatory evacuation order in place, and on Beerstecher Road, near such wineries as Cakebread Cellars, masked workers could be seen picking the last fruits of the harvest. No homes apparently burned Monday. It will be an exhausting and emotional road ahead for the thousands who lost everything. Some will be mourning the deaths of neighbors in Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino and Yuba counties. But even for the residents whose homes didnt burn, any semblance of normalcy remains far off. In the fire-ravaged neighborhoods of Santa Rosa, residents were advised to boil tap water before drinking or cooking. Many schools were closed in Napa and Sonoma counties, and fire continued to threaten homes in the Napa Valley community of Oakville. PG&E officials said they expected to restore power to much of the North Bay by Monday evening. And outpatient and elective surgery services have resumed at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. Chronicle staff writers Evan Sernoffsky, Michael Cabanatuan, David Baker and Steve Rubenstein contributed to this report. Lizzie Johnson, Marissa Lang, Jenna Lyons and Kevin Fagan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: ljohnson@sfchronicle.com; mlang@sfchronicle.com; jlyons@sfchronicle.com; kfagan@sfchronicle.com Helping and getting help FEMA is offering assistance to fire victims. For more information go to www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call (800) 621-3362. The Red Cross is organizing relief efforts in the North Bay. Evacuees trying to connect with family and friends should post on the organizations Safe and Well website: www.redcross.org/safeandwell. Community volunteers who want to help in relief efforts can sign up with the Red Cross at http://tinyurl.com/RedCrossVolOctober2017. Donations to help those affected by California wildfires and other disasters can be made at www.redcross.org. People can also call (800) 733-2767 or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. People needing to report or ask about a missing person in Sonoma County can call the county Fire and Emergency Services Department at (707) 565-3856. For tips on how to prepare for a wildfire, go to: www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/wildfire. For fire information in Sonoma County, call (707) 565-3856. Donations to help fire victims can be made here: https://www.redwoodcu.org/. To help Tubbs Fire victims, donate here: http://biturl.in/64. Food donations can be made at the Redwood Empire Food Bank in Santa Rosa: http://refb.org/. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee will introduce legislation Tuesday to hasten the closure of the citys seedy Hall of Justice, a move that appears to have universal support from the Board of Supervisors. But Lees plan to lease new properties for the district attorney, adult probation and other city departments will reopen a debate about where to put the roughly 350 inmates housed in the Hall of Justices seventh-floor jail. Everyone seems to agree that the building at 850 Bryant St., with its sewage leaks, asbestos and rodent infestations, has outlived its usefulness. However, the supervisors have so far resisted calls by Lee and Sheriff Vicki Hennessy for a replacement jail, saying it would go against San Franciscos progressive push to find alternatives to incarceration. The fact that these leases are being introduced begs the question, What about those inmates? said Hennessy, who urged the supervisors years ago to fund a new stand-alone jail with 383 beds. The board unanimously rejected that plan. Lee said that if the board votes to move the city departments to leased buildings in the South of Market and on Potrero Hill, the inmates must go as well. On Monday, he urged the supervisors to come up with an exit strategy that addresses both staff and the jail population and meets the city administrators goal of clearing out the building in 2019. In 2015, the board torpedoed Lees proposal to allocate $270 million toward building a new jail. Last year, the supervisors rejected an $80 million state grant that would have helped fund the project. Instead, the supervisors convened a working group to plan for the jail closure and said it should focus on redirecting money to mental health services and intervention programs. The group released a report in June suggesting ways to reduce the inmate population, such as adding beds in psychiatric facilities and releasing people while they await trial. It did not include a plan to replace the seventh-floor jail. That worries Hennessy. On Monday, she sent a letter to the board, saying social programs wont be enough to eliminate San Franciscos jail population and that the inmates the city does lock up need to be in a better building. She is working with city staff to create new housing at the County Jail in San Bruno so it can accommodate inmates from the Hall of Justice. She also wants to expand a smaller jail at 425 Seventh St. Board President London Breed, who has opposed plans to build a new stand-alone jail, said Monday that she would support moving inmates to San Bruno or to other counties. Now Playing: On Tuesday raw sewage spilled into DA offices at the aging Hall of Justice at 850 Bryant Street, which is home to courtrooms, police bureaus and jail cells. Video: Brandpoint Thats just something were going to have to do, she said. However, moving inmates out of the city raises its own issues. These are jobs for San Francisco deputies, said Eugene Cerbone, president of the San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs Association. Is San Francisco going to just give those jobs to other counties? Hennessy noted that shifting inmates to other counties means relocating them far away from their families. And were sending them to places that dont necessarily share our values. City Administrator Naomi Kelly sent her own letter to the board, saying conditions have steadily deteriorated over the past four years at the Hall of Justice. She urged the board to make the well-being of inmates front and center in the exit planning process. Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A smoky haze cloaked the hillsides around Sonoma as Drew and Fernanda Olin trudged up Lovall Valley Road, holding an empty cat carrier. They were on a mission for Drews parents, who fled their home late Friday as the Nuns Fire overtook their neighborhood on the east side of Sonoma. In their frantic rush to get out, they had left behind their beloved orange tabby named Golden whom they couldnt find. Like any good son, Drew, 48, promised to go back to find Golden. On Saturday, he and his newlywed wife, Fernanda, 35, left their Petaluma home, drove 20 miles, then hiked along a warren of backroads to search for Golden. They sidestepped a police line. They walked two miles. Then they reached the spacious ranch house on Lovall Valley Road. Now Playing: Wine Country Fires Video: San Francisco Chronicle It was about 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Only an hour before, a 40-foot wall of flames had rolled downhill toward the town, devouring several acres before it passed Drews parents house. The scene was still hot. Cinders were popping all around the house, tiny fingers of fire were crackling, and much of the yard was caked in smoldering ash. Inside the home, an alarm was bleating. The house had survived the fire and checking on the house was important, but almost secondary. This treacherous trek was every bit as much for Golden. They love him. They had to try. Golden, Golden! they called out, again and again, as helicopters dropped water nearby. They looked under a wide deck. There you are! Fernanda exclaimed with delight. Golden was squatting under the deck too far back to grab. But they could see his eyes peering out like two tiny flashlight bulbs. For the next 40 minutes they cooed and coaxed. Finally, slowly, Golden tiptoed out. Drew cradled him with a big smile as he approached the cat carrier held out by Fernanda. They were so close to completing their rescue. But the sight of the carrier was too much for Golden he bolted from Drews arms and ran away. Drew crossed his arms over his chest, closed his eyes, and tipped his head back for one long, frustrated moment. Back the two went to sticking their heads under the deck. Golden, Golden! Come here, Kitty! they called. Thats a good cat now. Come! Come! They considered tearing up the boards of the deck, but rejected that idea. They thought of putting food at the edge of the deck, then realized that would take too long. Just then, a helicopter dropped a huge load of water with a loud crash right next to their house, dousing out one of the hot spots. Drew turned to Fernanda and said, Wed better go. They lumbered back downhill with the empty carrier. At least they could tell Drews parents that Golden had made it. I think they have a good eye on the fire, Drew said. Hell be OK for now. Well try tomorrow for sure. Kevin Fagan and Rachel Swan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: kfagan@sfchronicle.com, rswan@sfchronicle.com Negotiations over the future of NAFTA were extended into the first quarter of 2018 in a bid to resolve differences after Canada and Mexico rejected what they see as hardline U.S. proposals. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo and Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland spoke in Washington Tuesday as battle lines form around contentious proposals to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement. New proposals have created challenges and ministers discussed the significant conceptual gaps among the parties, Lighthizer said, reading a joint statement at the close of the fourth round of talks Tuesday. Ministers have called upon all negotiators to explore creative ways to bridge these gaps. During their joint remarks to the press, Lighthizer said hes surprised and disappointed by the outcome so far, Guajardo said Mexico has limits to what it can accept in any deal, and Freeland said some of the proposals run counter to World Trade Organization rules. In the joint statement, ministers reaffirmed their mandate to reach a deal in a reasonable period of time. Mexico will host the the fifth round of talks on Nov. 17-21, which is later than originally anticipated as ministers give themselves more time between rounds to assess proposals. The Mexican peso jumped more than 1 percent on news of the 2018 timeframe for talks, as investors bet it decreased the odds that the deal would fall apart any time soon. The Trump administration had previously set a goal of finishing negotiations as soon as this year. But Mexico and Canada have repeatedly and publicly rejected the U.S. demands on dairy, autos, dispute panels, government procurement and a sunset clause. President Donald Trump has called NAFTA a disaster and repeatedly threatened to withdraw the U.S. from the agreement, a step the White House can set into motion by giving six-months notice to its trading partners. At stake is the $1.2 trillion in annual trade between the three countries, as well as the business models of companies such as Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Co. that have adapted their supply chains to take advantage of the trade zone. Trump again decried massive trade deficits with trading partners, speaking at the White House on Tuesday. Companies are leaving and theyre firing the people and the product is made elsewhere and then its sold back into the United States, he said. Im not going to be allowing that, so I can understand how certain countries and the leaders of certain countries may feel. But were just not going to allow the United States to be taken advantage of by other countries anymore. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate This story originally published in October 2017. Selena fans were excited to see Google had changed the logo on its website to honor the Queen of Tejano on Tuesday, but that's not all the company has in store. The Quintanilla family, who runs The Selena Museum in the icon's hometown of Corpus Christi, worked with the tech giant to launch "Celebrating Selena: Fotos y Recuerdos," an online catalog of rare photos of artifacts including outfits, fan art and her prized possessions. "Google Arts & Culture is an immersive way to experience art, history, culture and world wonders from over a thousand organizations worldwide," Google Spokeswoman Charlotte Smith told mySA.com. RELATED: Google creates Doodle in Selena's honor Now Playing: The singer's life and legacy in 90 seconds Video: Houston Chronicle Visitors can swipe through the gallery to see up-close photos of Selena's signature costumes, letters sent from fans as far as Hungary and artwork, like one made of lip impressions using lipsticks from her MAC makeup line. The online museum also provides the story of La Reina's rise to fame in the male-dominated Tejano realm and how her legacy has transcended generations. "Selena became a beacon of inspiration and hope for the Latinx, immigrant, and bicultural communities around the globe," a description on the Google museum reads. "Her story of embracing and celebrating all parts of her cultural heritage and persevering in the face of adversity forged an emotional connection with millions." See the photos from the online museum in the gallery above. mmendoza@mysa.com | Twitter: @MaddySkye This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Troy Eighteen months hence, a Bow Tie Cinemas complex may be set to open in downtown Cohoes, along Route 9 in Colonie or elsewhere in Albany County. And Troy? It will still have its hole. That's 1 Monument Square, of course, the downtown site where proposals die. The Bow Tie Cinemas plan was perhaps the best one there in the six years since the old City Hall was demolished, and it is kaput now, too. "We just didn't see an end to the lawsuits," Joe Masher, chief operating officer at Bow Tie, said to explain why the company terminated the plan. "I'm devastated. I was really looking forward to putting a theater downtown and doing my hometown proud," Masher said. "Unfortunately, there are people connected to this site who for reasons I don't understand want to keep projects from happening there." As I wrote last month, the intensity of the opposition from a small number of downtown property owners was baffling. But ultimately, that opposition didn't kill the plan for 11 movie screens and a parking garage. Litigation filed by Judge Development did. "I'm going to get villainized," owner Sam Judge told me Monday. He's right. Reaction to the project's death was scathing and gobsmacked. Not without reason: The movie complex could have been a regional attraction; it would have created jobs and tax revenue; it would have been tangible proof of Troy's downtown renaissance. Poof! It's gone. "My conscience is clear," Judge said. "All of the issues could have been resolved with communication and transparency." Judge, who owns property adjacent to 1 Monument Square, said he filed two lawsuits partly out of concern with the process. He doesn't believe City Hall was transparent. He also thinks the theaters would have built illegally on parkland and therefore required approval by the state Legislature. But in our conversation, it was parking that got Judge animated. "I couldn't in good conscience sit back and watch while parking problems went from bad to worse," Judge said. "It would have negatively affected my interests." I maintain that parking concerns were exaggerated. The theaters were expected to draw 10,000 moviegoers a week, mostly on nights and weekends, which happens to be how many people arrive at the farmers market on Saturday mornings yet everyone manages to park. What am I missing? In any event, Troy's loss could be another community's gain. Cohoes Mayor Shawn Morse, who is aggressively courting economic development, on Monday urged Bow Tie to consider his city. Bow Tie could also fit as part of the redevelopment of the old Hoffman's Playland site in Colonie. Masher said Bow Tie, which was partnering on the project with Bonacio Construction, is committed to finding a home for the complex and would "absolutely" consider Cohoes. He also didn't rule out finding an alternative site in Troy. The project was personal for Masher, who grew up in Brunswick and credits the old Proctor's Theater with launching his love of cinema. I could hear the frustration in his voice. If someone with that kind of affection for Troy can't get something built at 1 Monument Square, what hope is there for anybody else? What developer will go near the city-owned site? The developer would have to be a masochist, given the threat of litigation and near-certain opposition from a small cadre of NIMBYs who seem to consider 1 Monument Square the world's most wonderful development opportunity. The demands and expectations have grown unrealistic. To listen to some of the neighbors, any development must include interesting attractions; preserve river views and access; provide greenspace; honor neighboring buildings while also being an architectural showpiece; deliver no traffic and parking demands; and feature a thrilling roller coaster. I made the roller coaster part up. But you get the point. Mayor Patrick Madden's office said Monday that it wasn't sure what its next step would be. One option is to issue yet another request for proposals, even though four prior RFPs have failed to get a shovel in the ground. Among the scuttled proposals is one by Judge that fell apart when he refused to disclose required financial information. I asked Judge if his proposal could have lived up to what he and others are now demanding for the site. "That was a different project and a different time," he said, before stressing that he's not trying to be obstructionist. "My property values will go up when something is built there. I want that site developed, but not at any cost." On Monday, 1 Monument Square looked typically bleak, with overgrown weeds, cracked concrete and a chain-link fence along the sidewalk. It was a hole, a rebuke to the surrounding city, and it won't change anytime soon. cchurchill@timesunion.com 518-454-5442 This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate STAMFORD Not many students can say theyve been greeted by 30 cheerleaders and a marching band in their classroom. But thats what Stamford High School senior Krantz Medeus experienced Friday morning. Medeus, 17, won a district-wide art competition complementing a NASA science contest that Stamford High has been selected to participate in this year. The contest, the Student Spaceflight Experiment Program (SSEP), selected from 11,000 schools, colleges and research centers. Stamford High is among the few chosen to send a scientific experiment to NASA that will then be flown into space, according to Sue Doherty, a SHS special education teacher who also works on atmospheric research at NASA Langley Research Center in Virginia. The art contest was orchestrated by the school district to involve more students and coincide with the science experiment. Madeus designed a patch for the astronauts suits when they travel into space with the student experiments. Stamford High cheerleaders and marching band members surprised Madeus in his classroom early Friday morning to announce he won the art competition. I dont want to be that guy, but I kind of had a feeling, he joked. Medeus plans to pursue art after high school, but in ways he said would be more financially stable. He hopes to be accepted to Keene State College in New Hampshire to study architecture and possibly minor in graphic design. He said he went through several drafts of the design before settling on one. When I first heard about the art competition, my art teacher said I should participate, he said. I figured, why not. Its fun and if I win, it will be pretty cool to have something I created leave Earth. Madeus is looking forward to the rest of his senior year, applying to college, playing lacrosse and going to the prom. Krantz is an amazing artist and the piece of work is nothing less than spectacular, Stamford High Principal Raymond Manka said. Elementary students also participated in the contest. For the K-8 competition, Toquam Magnet Elementary Schools Alexander Barker won. Students will spend nine weeks completing their science experiment, which will be flown into space in spring 2018 along with Madeus design. tclark@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2265; @TravClark2 Oct. 2 At 1:32 p.m., Officers Guerra and Schwausch were dispatched to 5002 Bellaire Blvd. in reference to a theft in progress. Officers searched the area and located a suspect who had stolen items. The suspect was arrested for felony theft. Oct. 3 At 11:26 p.m., Officer Barrientos responded to a criminal trespass call in the 4300 block of Bellaire Blvd. Upon arrival, Ofc. Barrientos observed a black male wearing yellow coat and pants standing on top of rail road tracks impeding traffic. During the investigation, the male suspect did not comply with Ofc. Barrientos commands and ran away on foot. Ofc. Barrientos was able to place the subject in custody. At 12:35 a.m., Officer Proctor observed a maroon Pontiac G5 with a defective rear license plate light. Officer Proctor initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle at the 5100 block of Bellaire Blvd. and made contact with the driver. After further investigation, the driver was found to be driving with a suspended license and no insurance. The driver also had two active warrants out of the city of Houston. At 12:52 a.m., Officer Proctor placed the driver into custody for DWLI Enhanced and the HPD warrants. Officer Proctor then transported the driver to the Bellaire Jail for booking. At 8:51 a.m., Officer Vorhees conducted a traffic stop on a Jeep for invalid temporary tag in the 5400 block of Bellaire Boulevard. The driver was subsequently found to be operating a motor vehicle while her Texas Driver's License was currently suspended. The driver was arrested and taken to the Bellaire Jail where she was booked for the charge of driving while license suspended/enhanced (Class B Misd) with no insurance. Oct. 4 At 11:30 a.m., Officer H. Lopez was dispatched to the Bellaire Police Department lobby in reference to an identity theft. The victim stated an unknown person obtained her information and used it to cancel her cell phone account. At 9:58 a.m., Officer Vorhees was dispatched to 5020 Bellaire Blvd. to meet with the victim in reference to a burglary of motor vehicle. Upon arrival, Officer Vorhees spoke with victim who stated she had her purse stolen from her vehicle while fueling her vehicle. Officer Carson assisted with this case. At 6:30 p.m., Officer Younger was dispatched to the Bellaire Police Department in regards to an identity theft report. Officer Younger made contact with the victim who advised an unknown suspect opened a Dish Network account using his personal information. At 9:27 p.m., Officer Younger was dispatched to an alarm call at 6701 Chimney Rock Road. Upon arriving Officer Younger logged a plate belonging to an unoccupied 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. The Jetta was found to be a stolen vehicle out of Houston. The vehicle was recovered and taken out of the system as stolen. Oct. 5 At 5:05 p.m., Officer D. Clawson responded to an aggravated robbery in the parking lot at 5301 Bissonnet. Between 5 and 5:05 p.m., the victim was walking toward the entrance of the bank carrying a large manila envelope containing cash. The suspects in this case grabbed the envelope from the victim while displaying a pistol pointed at the victim. The suspects then fled the scene in a black newer model sedan. At 4:05 p.m., Officer Marcotte initiated a traffic stop in the 5400 block of Bissonnet on a 1999 Lincoln for displaying a wrong license plate. The driver was found to have a suspended license and the passenger had marijuana in her possession. Both were arrested and charged with the respective offenses. At 7:42 p.m., Officer Marcotte initiated a traffic stop in the 5200 block of Bissonnet on a 2000 Ford Explorer after a witness observed the vehicle to be driving erratically. Officer Marcotte observed it to have severe front end damage and a missing tail light. The driver was found to be intoxicated and a passenger was found to be in possession of possible synthetic marijuana. Both were arrested for their respective offenses. At 2:36 p.m., Officer Schwausch was dispatched to the Bellaire Police Lobby in reference to a theft. The victim stated her political sign was stolen from her yard at 2:43 p.m. on Sept. 27. Oct. 6 At 3:12 p.m., Officer Liccketto was dispatched to the 4400 block of Verone in reference to a burglary of a motor vehicle. The owner of the vehicle left her vehicle locked and secured. The victim returned to her vehicle and found the driver side window broken. The unknown suspect took a backpack containing various items belonging to the victim. At 9:43 a.m., Officer Schwausch conducted a traffic stop and attempted to make contact with the driver at the 7400 block of Ashcroft Drive. When Officer Schwausch attempted to make contact, the driver made statements consistent with a sovereign citizen. After numerous attempts to gain compliance from the driver, he was placed into custody and charged with fail to identify/fugitive and interfering with public duties. At 1:51 p.m., Officer Andrade was dispatched to the 6800 block of IH 610 Northbound in reference to a major accident. One of the subjects involved gave fictitious identifying information, and left the scene. After further investigation, Officer Andrade located the correct identifying information of the suspect which revealed outstanding traffic warrants with the city of Houston Police Department. Officer Andrade filed charges on the suspect for Harris County Class B misdemeanor, failure to stop and give information (fsgi) and class a misdemeanor failure to identify fugitive from justice to be apprehended at a later date and time. At 3:45 p.m., Officer Younger was dispatched to 5311 Bellaire Blvd. in regards to a theft report. Officer Younger arrived at 3:48 p.m. and made contact with store staff who advised two unidentified black males came into the store and stole two IPhones. Oct. 7 At 2 p.m., Officer Carson was dispatched to 5101 Jessamine to meet with victim of a burglary of a motor vehicle. The victim's vehicle was parked at Feld Park. The unknown suspect(s) used unknown tool(s) to pry open the victim's driver door handle to gain entry inside the vehicle stealing a laptop. At 6:26 p.m., Officer Younger was dispatched to the area of 6700 S. Rice Blvd. in reference to a suspect who was acting suspicious. The investigation concluded with the subject being arrest for failure to identify as a fugitive from justice. The suspect was later transported for a 72 hour medical evaluation at NPC Hospital. Oct. 8 At 11:49 p.m., Officer Proctor was patrolling the 4400 block of Bissonnet St. when he observed a silver Hyundai Santa Fe run a red light. Officer Proctor then initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle as it was pulling into the parking lot of a Valero gas station located at 4439 Bissonnet St. Officer Proctor observed the driver's eyes to be bloodshot and detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from the driver's breath. Officer Proctor also discovered the driver had left a 10 year old daughter alone at her residence with nobody to care for her. After further investigation, Officer Proctor found the driver to be driving while intoxicated. At 12:12 a.m., Officer Proctor placed the driver into custody for DWI and child abandonment with intent to return. Officer Proctor then transported her to Bellaire Jail for booking. At 3:07 a.m., Officer Bellard was dispatched to the 6700 block of IH 610 northbound in reference to a citizen following an intoxicated driver. Officer Bellard located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. After further investigation the driver was arrested for driving while intoxicated. At 10:20 a.m., Officer Schwausch was dispatched to 5400 block of Braeburn Drive in reference to a burglary of a motor vehicle that occurred between 8:30 p.m. Oct. 4 and 7:30 a.m. Oct. 5. The vehicle was left unsecured in the driveway and multiple items were taken from the vehicle. At 8:41 a.m., Officer Andrade was dispatched to the 5100 block of Chestnut Street in reference to an identity theft. Officer Andrade met with the victim who stated sometime on Oct. 1, an unknown suspect used his personal identifying information to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance loan and file a FEMA claim. Oct. 9 At 9:46 p.m., Officer Salinas responded to the Walgreens Pharmacy at 5002 Bellaire Blvd. in reference to a credit card abuse case. The victim stated that between 12:48 and 12:52 p.m., an unknown suspect used the information from his Visa Debit card to make three withdrawals from the ATM located inside the Walgreens Pharmacy. At 12:30 a.m., Officer Proctor was patrolling the 5000 block of Bellaire Blvd. when he observed a silver Dodge Durango bearing an expired temporary Dealer Agent tag. Officer Proctor ran the tag though the TCIC/NCIC database and received a return showing the tag did not display any vehicle information. Officer Proctor initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle at the 5100 block of Bellaire Blvd. and made contact with the driver. Upon further investigation, Officer Proctor determined the driver was driving an unregistered vehicle and the driver had placed a valid registration sticker belonging to a Chevrolet Cobalt on the front windshield of the Dodge Durango. At approximately 0054 hours, Officer Proctor placed the driver into custody for wrong registration insignia and transported him to Bellaire Jail for booking. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Courtesy photo Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Courtesy photo Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner visited The Lighthouse of Houston on Oct. 6 and spent some time with clients and staff of the agency. The Lighthouse of Houston is a nonprofit education and service center dedicated to assisting blind and visually impaired people to live independently. The Levy Park Conservancy will present Healthy Bites to Save Lives, a festival headlined by award-winning chef, author and lifestyle crusader Rocco DiSpirito and featuring Houston-area celebrities, chefs and experts to "Celebrate All that is Houston" on Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public is invited to this free event at Levy Park, 3801 Eastside St., which is sponsored by Dr. Mehmet Oz's HealthCorps.org and will raise funds to assist students in Texas who have been impacted by Hurricane Harvey. The family- and pet-friendly Healthy Bites to Save Lives will feature the best of the healthy food and beverage scene in Houston with local chefs, restaurants and businesses. In addition to a book signing and demonstration by DiSpirito, there will be food trucks, cooking demos, product samplings, picnics, music and fitness demos. "The Levy Park Conservancy is thrilled to partner with HealthCorps on this healthy eating event appealing to all ages and tastes," says Lindsey Carey, LPC's Programming Coordinator. "We continue to promote health and wellness programming at Levy Park because we believe citizens lead happier and more productive lives when they incorporate sound nutrition and abundant exercise into their lifestyles. We see this as a natural fit, combining education, fun and healthful, delicious food." According to HealthCorps President Michelle Bouchard, who is based with staff out of Houston, "Prior to Hurricane Harvey, Rocco and HealthCorps had already planned an event to help get the word out about the incredible food scene here in Houston. "Once the devastation hit, however, Dr. Oz, Rocco and I decided it was more important than ever to use the free festival to raise monies for much needed resilience resources for students affected by the flooding of their homes," said Bouchard. DiSpirito is a James Beard award-winning chef, healthy lifestyle expert and New York Times bestselling author. His newest cookbook, Rocco's Healthy & Delicious, features more than 200 mostly plant-based recipes for everyday life. He was hailed the champion of Food Network's hit series Guy's Grocery Games: Superstars where he won $40,000 for HealthCorps. Additionally, Dispirito launched an organic, plant-based product line, Rocco's Healthy & Delicious, featuring an assortment of snacks and meals, available atroccodispirito.com, and founded a fresh food meal delivery service. DiSpirito is recognized for his inspiring weight loss journey and is committed to demonstrating that "healthy" and "delicious" are not mutually exclusive. For more information on Healthy Bites to Save Lives visit levyparkhouston.org or healthybitestosavelives. July marked a year's anniversary of a lone shooter firing on a group of Dallas Police Officers killing five and wounding nine. That attack on July 7, 2016, represents the deadliest incident for U.S. law enforcement since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. In a news conference, Dallas Police Chief David Brown told young men to "serve your communities" by joining law enforcement to "become part of the solution." Good words! They need to be repeated and also expanded to include a call to action of all eligible citizens across our country to help his or her community. Some think of joining law enforcement but discard the idea when they realize the full impact of switching careers. Others find a way into law enforcement by becoming a reserve law enforcement officer. I joined the Harris County Sheriff's Department Reserves more than 30 years ago and balanced my career in the private energy sector with my law enforcement role as a reserve deputy. I have never regretted it. For those agencies looking to add capability to its regular police or sheriff's department, reserve personnel represent an option worthy of consideration in this era of reduced budgets and hiring as reserves perform their duty as non-paid officers. Reserves represent a Texas Tradition. State law preserved reserve organizations over the years making the reserve deputy an essential part of Texas law enforcement heritage. The concept of a reserve force dates back to the formation of a group of volunteers in the 1820s that became the Texas Rangers, the nation's oldest state law enforcement agency. The Harris County Sheriff's Office formed in 1837 possesses its own unique history. Currently the largest sheriff office in the state of Texas, it ranks as the third largest nationwide. During 2016, Ed Gonzalez became the 30th sheriff of Harris County and heads his team protecting 4.5 million residents within the county's 1,700 square miles. A small but important percentage of that team consists of Reserve law enforcement officers. They share the department's core values: "Merit and maintain the public's trust. Embrace and deliver professional service. Protect our citizens with honor and courage. Exemplify ethical conduct at all times. Develop, encourage, and care for our sheriff's office family." The Harris County Sheriff's Reserves stand as the largest Sheriff's Reserve Organization in Texas and nationally ranks second only to California's Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Reserve Chief Dave Deleon leads the reserve force of more than 200 officers. A veteran of 24 years with the force, he rose through the ranks to the top reserve position. When not working as a reserve, he is the CEO of the private company he created. Who are these people who are gainfully employed but decide to go through the background scrutiny, endure the long and rigorous training to wear a uniform and share the risks and liabilities law enforcement requires? All one has to do is look at the current Reserve Basic Peace Officer Class (BPOC) of 18 individuals attending the Harris County Sheriff's Academy. They represent various races, religions and backgrounds. They are your neighbors and include engineers, a civil servant, a medical doctor, IT professional, two airline pilots, a paramedic, self-employed business people and corporate managers a few have prior military service. They range in age from 32 to 62. What attributes members of this class share most are motivation and commitment. State law requires reserve candidates go through stringent background reviews that include drug testing, interviews with employers, credit checks and a polygraph test. These HCSO cadets began their BPOC class on Nov. 1, 2016, and will graduate in December 2017. They go through the same training as regular deputies, but attend academy classes in the evening and weekends to accommodate daytime jobs. The academy experience of more than 850 hours creates a habit of thought and a system of values. It's unique: part boot camp - physical training, defensive tactics, medical aid, firearms; and part higher education - memorization of the fine points of the Criminal Code, Penal Code, traffic law and many practical exercises using scenarios to reinforce the need of decision-making under stress. At the end of the Academy road, they must pass the same physical fitness tests, department qualifications and state exams for licensing as a Regular Officer. After their commission, they attend required and optional in-service training that many take vacation time from their regular jobs to complete. The reason a person joins the reserves varies but include: Former regular deputies who left a department to work in the private sector but want to maintain his or her commission and continue in law enforcement. Retired regular officers who wish to remain in law enforcement. A person joining the reserves with the thought of possibly transferring to regular deputy status in the future. The "Super Volunteer" who wishes to take on the law enforcement role. Some may have relatives or friends in law enforcement. Regardless, they are committed to making a difference in the community and willing to sacrifice their time for training and duty assignments as a Reserve Deputy. This last category of volunteer brings with them a unique perspective and skills from their private sector livelihood and position in the community that are assets to their agency. A reserve deputy must perform a minimum of 20 hours of duty assignments each month, attends regular Reserve meetings and pass regular firearms qualification. Most reservists volunteer much more than the required minimum. They also can be called for special assignments and emergencies. A good example: relief efforts during April 2016 when violent thunderstorms swept across Harris County. Storms resulted in more than 16 inches of rain in a short time with flooded homes, impassable roads, stranded families and loss of life. The Reserve Marine Division personnel put in long hours during this emergency in department flat bottom and airboats. This included Reserve dive team members not only performing high water rescue but also the unfortunate task of finding and recovering two drowning victims. Over the decades, the HCSO Reserves have thrived and expanded operations through several sheriffs. The organization's 80,000 hours of service on an annual basis in 2016 amounted to more than $2.5 million in savings to the county. Monetary savings of reserves to the county over the last 40 years totals more than $100 million. Reservists work in all areas of the Sheriff's Department and possess full legal police powers when on duty. Some work "one person" patrol and single deputy duty assignments, a responsibility and privilege allowed Harris County Reservists due to the quality of training and professionalism of the organization. Others may be the second person in a patrol unit, patrol with the Marine Division, deal with community relations, practice tactical medicine, serve felony warrants or teach at the Academy. Reserves do their jobs with competence and little fanfare. If you meet a Reserve Harris County Deputy you will see a person who shares the same uniform as a regular deputy and has pledged to deliver his or her best to merit and maintain your trust and deliver professional service. For an agency wishing to expand its capabilities and increase its diversity, a Reserve unit represents an attractive option. For the man or woman wanting to positively impact society, there may be no better choice or more important role for them to perform. Keith R. Schmidt is a sergeant and firearms instructor assigned to the training division of the Harris County Sheriff Department Reserves, Houston, Texas. He has balanced his reserve law enforcement role for more than 30 years with a career in the energy industry public and investor relations. He urges readers to visit the Officer Down Memorial Page www.odmp to learn more about the dedication and sacrifice of American law enforcement. TSRA members interested in reserve training and opportunities should contact their local law enforcement agencies. Fort Bend ISD had planned the Making Lemonade out of Lemons mental wellness workshop held on Oct. 11 before Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc on many of the district's families, but the disaster made the event even more appropriate. About 85 students, staff and community members gathered at Clements High School in Sugar Land last Wednesday to hear from author and mental health speaker Joshua Rivedal on developing healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety. Rivedal, a once-aspiring-actor, decided to shift into public speaking in his late 20s and addresses mental wellness and suicide prevention in his talks using improv, humor, serious conversation and learning skills. "Learning to take care of yourself first is so important," said Heather Bowman, Fort Bend ISD elementary counselor coordinator. "In light of everything that's going on in our community after Hurricane Harvey, it's especially important to remember to take some time for your well-being." The event was planned as part of the district's Speak Up initiative, an effort to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention by reducing the stigma connected with asking for help, Bowman explained. "We want students and parents to feel safe in talking about mental health and reaching out for support," she said. "Physical wellness is something most people discuss openly; however, when it comes to mental health, people sometimes shy away from this topic due to stigma." Fort Bend ISD offers a number of resources for students and families in crisis or in need of support. Every campus has at least one counselor, each student goes through a character education program at the elementary and secondary levels, all campus administrators, teachers, counselors, nurses, social workers and police officers are trained in mental health awareness and suicide prevention and the district offers a support hotline called TalkLine that provides guidance and support for students in grades 3-12. The district staff also has access to mental health resources through the Employee Assistance Program, which provides a 24/7 crisis hotline and counseling resources. "Providing a safe and supportive learning environment is a key component in promoting the development of the whole child," Bowman said. In addition to the regular resources that the counseling department provides to students and staff, counselors met with many of the families that were personally impacted by Hurricane Harvey to assess their needs and coordinate support. This included offering counseling services during the school day, coordinating clothing, reduced or free lunch, school supplies, transportation to school and weekend food supplements through the Houston Food Bank's Backpack Buddy program. "Our primary focus is on ensuring students feel safe and secure at school while getting them back into the routine of learning," Bowman said. At the wellness event last week, attendees were given free lemonade, donated by Minute Maid, to symbolize the coping tools they could use to turn their stress and anxiety, or "lemons," into positive thinking, or "lemonade." A U.S. district judge in Chicago ruled Monday that a class-action lawsuit can move forward against Twentieth Century Fox Television. The lawsuit claimed the network encouraged Cook County officials, who are also being sued, to shut down several vital areas of a juvenile prison while filming scenes for "Empire" - to the detriment of the inmates. In the second season of Fox's smash hit, the show's main character, music mogul Lucious Lyon (played by Terrence Howard), finds himself in prison. To realistically portray his time in jail, Fox filmed several scenes at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center in Chicago during the summer of 2015. During filming, the detention center was placed on lockdown on three different occasions for several days in each instance, the lawsuit claimed. Prisons are generally placed on lockdown if there are security threats, not for the filming of a television show. While in lockdown, several areas of the detention center, including its school, the family visiting area, outdoor recreation yard, library and chapel were "placed off limits so that Fox's agents and employees could use them to stage and film the show," according to the lawsuit. Meanwhile, the inmates were either forced to remain in their cells or confined to small rooms called "pods," where they were forced to sit "for days on end," the lawsuit said, claiming these restrictions were "more severe than those governing many adult jails." As a result, the prison canceled some of their family visits, rehabilitation sessions and schooling, according to the lawsuit. Fox repeatedly declined several media outlet's requests to comment on the lawsuit. The two episodes featuring Lyon in jail, one which guest-starred comedian Chris Rock, were highly publicized. They were also extremely profitable. Thirty-second advertising spots in the first episode cost $750,000, and spots in the second cost $600,000, according to the lawsuit. Fox sought dismissal of the class-action lawsuit against it, which was filed by legal guardians of two of the inmates in August 2016, claiming it was not responsible for the lockdowns. U.S. District Judge Amy J. St. Eve ruled that the suit can move forward. The judge dismissed a claim that Fox infringed on the inmates due process rights, but allowed the claim that the network may be liable for "tortious inducement of breach of fiduciary duties," meaning that Fox may have "colluded" with the prison's administration to place the center on lockdown as they filmed. The detention center was described as "long-troubled" by the Chicago Tribune in 2015, the same year the episodes were filmed. The newspaper added it had a "reputation for being crowded, unclean and poorly staffed" and that it was often "blasted as a depot where children were locked up in violent, unsanitary, overcrowded conditions." KAMIJIMA, Japan - Hunters in Kamijima, Ehime Prefecture, Japan, are taking steps to sell the meat of wild boars that were killed because they damage agricultural products in the town. In August, an association of local hunters began selling raw ham made from wild boars to businesses, as part of measures implemented by the town and prefectural governments to cope with the harmful animals. The raw ham is the first processed product of its kind in this endeavor. From November, the association also plans to sell the raw ham to individual consumers. People concerned are enthusiastic about the project. "It doesn't smell like wild animals. We hope people will come to know how rich the taste of the meat is," one said. Kamijima is on a remote island in the Seto Inland Sea. Wild boars were confirmed in the town about 10 years ago, and are believed to have swum to the island from nearby isles. The boars have eaten mainly citrus fruits, harming agriculture in Kamijima. According to the town government, about 8,000 square meters of farming land were damaged in fiscal 2016, and 290 boars were culled. Some portions of meat from the exterminated boars had been consumed by individuals, but most of the boars were disposed of by incineration. To better utilize the meat, the town government established a boar-meat processing facility in 2012. Currently the town's Juniku Shori Kako Kai, an association of about 20 hunters from the town, processes about 150 boars annually and sells the meat. Gibier growing in popularity The meat from wild animals such as boar and deer is called gibier, and is popular in Europe. It has also been increasingly popular in Japan in recent years because it is low-calorie and high in protein. To increase the umami taste of the meat, the association matures it in refrigerators for 10 to 14 days before shipping it out. The products have been circulated mainly inside the town, and also used for school lunches. The association decided to process the meat into raw ham, in a bid to produce unique products with higher added value. Yoshitaka Kanbara, a 40-year-old chef of French cuisine who won a bronze medal in the Culinary Olympics in 2016, supervised the production, and the association succeeded in producing raw ham for businesses. People concerned said the raw ham of wild boars has a richer umami taste than that made from pigs. In late August, about 130 cooks in the prefecture gathered in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, and the association asked them to taste the raw ham. It received high praise, with one saying: "The ham doesn't have a strange taste. I couldn't believe it was made from boar." Association head Takashi Onomura, 70, said: "We thoroughly remove the blood so there are no bad odors left in the meat, and only use the parts that are suitable for processing. We'll make more efforts to improve the quality so the products will continue to receive high praise." WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump promised retribution against Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., for his opposition to several GOP health-care plans and his comments implicitly criticizing Trump's views and leadership on Monday night. "People have to be careful because at some point, I fight back," Trump said in an interview Tuesday with WMAL, a Washington, D.C. radio station. "I'm being very nice. I'm being very, very nice. But at some point, I fight back, and it won't be pretty," Trump said. Trump's comments came as the White House girded for a preliminary vote on its budget resolution. Whether McCain would vote "yes" was unclear at the time of Trump's interview. "We need some votes from some of the Republicans. For some reason, they weren't there on health care. They should have been. We thought we had it. John McCain voted 'no,' which was a shocker," Trump said. McCain offered a thinly veiled critique of Trump's presidency Monday night in Philadelphia, where he received the Liberty Medal from the nonpartisan National Constitution Center. "To refuse the obligations of international leadership and our duty to remain 'the last best hope of Earth' for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past," McCain said in his remarks. "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil . . . We have a moral obligation to continue in our just cause, and we would bring more than shame on ourselves if we don't," he said. In response to Trump's latest comments, he told CNN: "I've faced far greater challenges than this." Trump has lashed out at McCain several times in recent months, most notably after the senator broke with Republicans and opposed two proposals to undermine the Affordable Care Act. "John McCain never had any intention of voting for this Bill, which his Governor loves," Trump tweeted on Sept. 23. "He campaigned on Repeal & Replace. Let Arizona down!" The president appears eager to intensify his long-standing feud with McCain, whom he infamously criticized in 2015 for being captured and held a prisoner of war in Vietnam. "He's not a war hero," Trump said at the Family Leadership Summit in Ames, Iowa. "He was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who weren't captured." McCain, a Navy pilot, spent about five-and-a-half years as a captive of the North Vietnamese after his plane was shot down in October 1967. He was repeatedly tortured and for more than two years, held in solitary confinement. "Now, I did not go along with this. I wasn't here at the time. I was actually out getting breast cancer treatment. I don't know that I would have objected. I like to believe I would have, but the bottom line is, once the DEA [Drug Enforcement Administration] kind of, the upper levels at the DEA obviously said it was okay, that's what gave it the green light." -Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., interview on CNN's "The Lead," October 16, 2017 - - - In the wake of The Washington Post/"60 minutes" investigation detailing how 2016 legislation passed by Congress weakened the Drug Enforcement Administration's ability to go after drug distributors, even as opioid-related deaths continue to rise, Sen. McCaskill has lead the charge for repealing the law. Already, President Donald Trump's choice for drug czar, Rep. Tom Marino, R-Pa., withdrew his nomination after the report exposed his role in spearheading the bill's passage through Congress. McCaskill, in the CNN interview, stated that she was not in Congress at the time and she would "like to believe" she would have objected to it. (The bill passed the Senate under unanimous consent, meaning one senator was needed to object to it in order for a recorded vote.) In an interview on NPR on October 17, in which McCaskill called on Trump to withdraw Marino's nomination, host David Greene noted to her: "I know you were dealing with some health issues and did not take a vote on this." McCaskill raised no objection. Readers may recall that McCaskill once claimed she had never met with the Russian ambassador - even though she had tweeted about a meeting. What does the record show about McCaskill's presence in Washington at the time of the DEA bill? The Facts The bill was approved in the Senate at 6:25 PM on March 17, 2016. But on March 14, USA Today reported that McCaskill "dove back into the legislative and political arena on Monday, returning to Washington after three weeks of intensive treatment for breast cancer in St. Louis." She held a 30-minute call that day to tell reporters she was back at work. On March 16, Senate records record she voted against a bill to defund Planned Parenthood. On March 17, the day the DEA bill was approved, she voted at 1:43 p.m. to approve a resolution holding the chief executive of the website backpage.com in contempt for allegedly refusing to cooperate into an investigation of sex trafficking. McCaskill even appeared on the floor to make the case for approval of the resolution. That same day, according to a news release, McCaskill participated in a Senate hearing on sudden spikes in drug prices. So, despite her claim that she "wasn't here at the time," McCaskill was clearly back at the Senate, participating in votes and hearings. McCaskill's staff acknowledged the error, saying that they had forgotten she had come back at that time. "It was sloppy on our part, and we take responsibility," a spokesman said. McCaskill for two days has left the impression that she was away from the Senate, dealing with health issues, when the bill hobbling the DEA was passed. On October 16, she told CNN she was away that week, dealing with her breast cancer. Then, a day later, she was silent when an NPR host asserted she was absent from the Senate that day because of her health issues. She should have said she had checked her schedule and that was a mistake. She told CNN she "like to believe" she would have opposed the bill and stopped it. But the reality is that she was there - and she missed the opportunity that she seeks now. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate HADDAM Middletown Police Patrol Cmdr. Sean Moriarty may be saying farewell to the force. After three decades with the department, Moriarty, 51, of the Higganum section of town, is running for first selectman on the Democratic ballot against First Selectman Lizz Milardo, a Republican. If he wins the seat, he said he will retire from the department. I truly enjoy being a police officer, Moriarty said. I enjoy challenges and I think Im ready for the next challenge of my life. Moriarty, who started working in the department in 1987, hit the 30-year mark Oct. 5. He manages more than 80 officers in various units, including the SWAT and dive teams and Middletown Animal Control. He started out as a patrolman and rose to sergeant and lieutenant and in 2011 was promoted to captain. Over the years, he has worked in the Middletown police youth bureau and traffic division and his experience also includes working on the departments $13 million budget. A veteran, Moriarty served in the Middle East during the Persian Gulf War in 1990. Prior to that, he was in the U.S. Army Reserves as a military policeman. Moriarty, who said he loves getting out and talking to people, spent Saturday knocking on doors in town. As first selectman, Moriarty said he plans to be available 24/7, the same commitment he has given to the force. The government is here for the people, not the other way around, he said. Tanja Moriarty, 51, his wife and former selectman running for Board of Assessment Appeals, is rooting for her husband. I know Sean will be devoting at least 40 hours a week at the job of first selectman. Knowing him, he will respond to calls after hours as well, she said. He will be focused and dedicated to the town because he truly cares about all people, all walks of life. One thing Sean Moriarty said he plans to focus on is the budget. I would like a zero-based budget, he said. Everybody starts with zero and explains to me what you need. Sean Moriarty also said he has concerns about changes to the bidding process for town projects. I dont think were quite within state statutes with that, theyre not as open as they could be, he said. It does not provide for an open government at all. First Selectman Milardo said the process was not changed. The Charter Revision Commission did recommend putting limits on dollar amounts for bids into a financial policy, but that was only because the charter has not been updated in 15 years, she said. Competitive bidding is one of the ways for the town to spend money efficiently, she said. Sean Moriarty also pointed to the the availability of contracts selectmen are expected to review and sign. Selectmen have told him they have been given such documents 10 minutes before meetings. So he said he would provide the paperwork in advance of meetings. Getting documents they need to review and sign that day, thats unconscionable as far as Im concerned, irresponsible, actually, he said. Its not open, honest fair government, its just closed government. Milardo said she does not understand the accusation, as her assistant JoAnn Ricciardelli emails agendas and minutes at least one day before meetings. Reports that will be discussed during the meeting do not go out in advance, as Milardo will be reading them and they will become a part of the public record, the first selectman said. Contracts are all reviewed by the town attorney in advance and the only thing Milardo needs is permission to sign them so those may or may not go out ahead of time, she said. In addition, she said no one has ever complained to her or Ricciardelli about the process or that things were coming in too late. If theres an issue, this is the first time Im hearing about it, she said. Sean Moriarty said he would also like to share goods and services with other municipalities, an endeavor to which running mate Melissa Schlag, 43, said she is also looking forward to. There are 169 towns in Connecticut and each one is acting as its own island, he said. Thats a problem. Sean Moriarty said he is not talking about cutting staff. Id like to take a look at each department, he said. He would also like to look at big-ticket items, such as sand and salt, to see if combining purchases could bring savings. It may or may not work, but lets look at it at least, he said. More than 50 Haddam Democrats unanimously approved a slate of 22 candidates for the November ticket, according to a press release. Schlag, who is a former first selectman and now chairs the Democratic Town Committee, said it is important to involve as many people as possible. Im very proud of the folks who have run, Schlag said. Its my opinion that we get especially young people involved because its their future that were deciding. Haddam Republicans running for seats Nov. 7 are: selectman, Larry Maggi; tax collector, Kristin Battistoni; treasurer, Robin Munster; Board of Finance, Harlan Fredericksen; Board of Finance alternate, Dave Challenger; Board of Assessment Appeals, Lisa Lawrence and Craig Salonia; Planning & Zoning, Ed Wallor and Wayne LePard; Zoning Board of Appeals, Munster and Tom Berchulski; and Zoning Board of Appeals alternate, Bill Iselin. Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly said that Melissa Schlag is 26. She is 43. Democrat Sean Donlan and Repulican Sam Crum withdrew their names from the board of selectman race and Larry Maggi was chosen as Crums replacement. NORWALK Norwalk Hospital may get a crosswalk on Maple Street, but not at Prospect Street as requested by hospital employees. On Monday afternoon, the Norwalk Traffic Authority took under advisement the recommendation of city engineers. Theres really not much we can do, officially, at that intersection. Its just too steep to really do anything, especially for a wheelchair, said Norwalk Director of Public Works Bruce Chimento, referring to Maple and Prospect streets. But we could move it (the crosswalk) up the road, as Mike said, westerly and put something in flatter. Michael Yeosock, the departments assistant principal engineer, said the grade of Maple Street at Prospect Street is 13 percent, and thus precludes it as a location for a crosswalk. According to him and Chimento, the only appropriate location would be approximately 250 feet to the west, or up the hill on Maple Street. That location would comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, they said. Fred Eshraghi, traffic engineer in the public works department, said he intends to explain the proposal to representatives of the hospital. We just want to make sure that they are okay with having the crosswalk over (to the west) and that somebody is using it, Eshraghi said. We dont want to just spend money. Mayor Harry Rilling, chairman of the three-member authority, concurred and recommended public works officials share their recommendations with the hospital. We can bring it to the next meeting as an action item if thats your recommendation, after speaking with the doctors and looking at it and coming back with a full presentation, Rilling said. In September, the hospitals attorney and two doctors asked the authority to approve a crosswalk on Maple Street at Prospect Street to help employees living in two nearby apartment buildings cross the street. Depending on the time of day you cross, you wait five or 10 minutes just to wait for safe (circumstances), Dr. Alexander Ho, a third-year resident student at the hospital, told the authority in September. The crosswalk, if approved and placed 250 feet west of Prospect Street, will be at grade rather than raised, include curb ramps to make it ADA-compliant and have signage and perhaps blinking beacons to alert motorists. Chimento said Monday such a crosswalk would not prevent pedestrians from crossing at Prospect Street, but it would demonstrate the city had made an effort to make crossing Maple Street safer for pedestrians. Norwalk Police Chief Thomas Kulhawik asked if the Department of Public Works would place bright-colored signage and markers, as in SoNo, to alert both motorists and pedestrians of the crosswalk. I know over here, on Monroe (Street), people do walk around to the crosswalks, Kulhawik said. Washington A political research firm behind a dossier of allegations about President Donald Trump's connections to Russia is balking at subpoenas from the House Intelligence Committee, with a lawyer for the firm questioning the legitimacy of the panel's probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 election. Joshua Levy, a lawyer for Fusion GPS, said in a letter to the panel Monday that House Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes is acting "in bad faith." Nunes stepped back from the Russia investigation after criticism he was too close to the White House, but is still panel chairman and signs its subpoenas. Levy signaled that the company won't cooperate with the panel. He said in the letter that if any of the employees subpoenaed Fusion GPS co-founder Glenn Simpson and two others with the firm are compelled to appear before the committee, they will exercise their Fifth Amendment rights and refuse to testify. He also portrayed the subpoena as an attack on their free speech rights. The dossier contends that the Russian government had amassed compromising information about Trump and had been engaged in a years-long effort to support and assist him. The document circulated among Washington journalists last year and was provided to the FBI. After more than a year of circling San Francisco streets, Cruise Automations self-driving cars may be heading to New York City. Cruise and its corporate parent, General Motors, said Tuesday that they have applied to test Cruises cars in crowded, traffic-intense Manhattan. Detailed 3-D mapping to help the cars navigate the streets has already begun in Lower Manhattan, although the companies did not say which specific neighborhoods were involved. Cruise, based in San Francisco, plans to begin the tests early next year and will hire a team of employees there to conduct them. Although the cars will largely drive themselves, each will have at least two humans inside, including one in the drivers seat the same setup the company uses in San Francisco. Testing in New York will accelerate the timeline to deploying self-driving cars at scale, said Cruise CEO Kyle Vogt, in a press release. New York City is one of the most densely populated places in the world and provides new opportunities to expose our software to unusual situations, which means we can improve our software at a much faster rate. New York state began accepting applications in May for companies interested in testing autonomous vehicles there, angling for a foothold in the fast-growing field of self-driving research. Each vehicle must come with a $5 million insurance policy and have a licensed backup driver ready to take control. California, where many autonomous vehicle companies are based, has similar requirements. The spirit of innovation is what defines New York, and we are positioned on the forefront of this emerging industry that has the potential to be the next great technological advance that moves our economy and moves us forward, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said, in a press release. Cruises customized Chevy Bolts outfitted with radar, cameras and laser-based sensors have become frequent sights in San Francisco. While some companies have been testing their autonomous cars in closed facilities, such as Concords GoMentum Station or the former Castle Air Force Base near Merced, Vogt has touted the importance of using urban environments, whose packed streets and heavy foot traffic provide challenging environments for the cars. Other cities hosting autonomous vehicle tests include Phoenix, Pittsburgh and Singapore. New York is the ultimate proving ground for autonomous vehicle technology, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer said Tuesday, in a press release. We have a streetscape that is unrivaled in its scale and complexity, and so its fitting that General Motors and Cruise Automation are finally bringing this technology here for testing and development. David R. Baker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dbaker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @DavidBakerSF The massive attack that rocked a bustling Mogadishu street on Saturday, killing 300, was a demonstration of resilience by al-Shabab, an Islamist militant group that has been battling U.S.-backed forces. The group frequently targets public spaces in Somalia's capital with the goal of undermining the central government's legitimacy, and to push back against its cooperation with the United States and a coalition of African allies. While U.S. officials and other observers say Saturday's attack does not necessarily signal al-Shabab's resurgence, it does highlight the group's ability to absorb setbacks and survive to execute brazen attacks. The militant group has experienced territorial, financial and recruitment losses since 2010, when the United States and its coalition began targeting its command structure. But that has not prevented the group from massing to attack military bases or coordinate bombings inside and outside Somalia, said Seth Jones, director of defense policy at the Rand Corp., a Pentagon-funded think tank in Washington, D.C. "Al-Shabab has areas where they can operate relatively freely," Jones told The Washington Post, including strongholds in southern river valleys. It's challenging terrain for ground troops to navigate and the dense foliage can obscure drone surveillance. Attacks against Somali troops and those assigned to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), a force numbering about 22,000, have grown more spectacular as al-Shabab's territory has shrunk, Jones concluded in a 2016 report on the counterterror campaign there. In June 2016, for instance, 30 Ethiopian soldiers were killed - along with 150 al-Shabab militants - in an attempt to overrun a base some 200 miles north of Mogadishu. The group has been dangerous to U.S. troops, too. Navy SEAL Kyle Milliken, a senior chief petty officer, was killed in May during an mission described as "behind" Somali troops but later revealed as a mission shoulder-to-shoulder with them. As U.S. airstrikes have targeted al-Shabab's commanders and its training camps, the group's leaders have made security adjustments, Jones said. They rely less on computers and cellphones, whose transmissions can be tracked. The U.S. military presence in Somalia is about 400 troops, with approximately half in Mogadishu, the Pentagon said Monday. Those forces include Special Operations troops to train Somali forces and conventional personnel on hand for logistical support, although much of the focus has been collecting and handing off surveillance and intelligence data to the Somalis. Al-Shabab still controls many rural areas in the south, including the roads leading to cities and towns. Even in Mogadishu, militants go around collecting "taxes" from businesses to offset revenue losses of seaside ports recaptured by government forces. AMISOM troops heading to Baidoa, one of the largest cities in Somalia, must often use aircraft to get there rather than roads primed for ambushes, said Abdi Ismail Samatar, a Somalia analyst and geography professor at the University of Minnesota who also serves on the board of the University of Mogadishu. "They are fighting with a bunch of guerrilla fighters, who are exceptionally mobile, who are working in a huge territory in which there is no government, so they are able to do what they want at a time of their own choosing," he said. A State Department official acknowledged the truck bomb shows al-Shabab is capable of staging attacks throughout the country, but said the government is making progress in helping Somalia transition from rule by warlords and clans to a federal government with a countrywide reach. "The magnitude of this attack caught everybody by surprise," said the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity under State Department ground rules for briefing reporters. "As terrible as the individual attack is, the fact is we don't see this every day now in Somalia. This is extraordinary, and it doesn't change the overall positive trajectory we're seeing there." The State Department official said the Somalis have thwarted a number of planned attacks, and defections have been encouraged by the newly-elected president, the Somali American Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed. He noted the latest bombing was condemned by Sheikh Mukhtar Robow, a former al-Shabab leader who defected after the Trump administration removed him from the most-wanted list of terrorists run by the State Department's "Rewards for Justice" program. "I wouldn't characterize the overall situation as the central government is failing, or returning to a failed state," the official said. "Under the previous and current governments, we've seen some pretty significant improvements." The United States over the past six years has spent $1.5 billion on humanitarian aid for victims of drought and famine, and $240 million on economic development aid, including good governance projects and building schools and government buildings. The United States also has a diplomatic presence of sorts, although it is limited to the heavily-fortified Mogadishu airport where Somali officials must travel to visit. The embassy officially is in Nairobi, a reflection of the dangerous environment, although it has been rotating diplomats on temporary duty between Somalia and Kenya until it can establish a full-time embassy on the airport grounds. A U.S.-backed Kurdish and Arab force claimed a major victory on Tuesday, saying they had taken full control of Raqqa, the Islamic State's former de facto capital, after a four-month-long offensive. The city gained symbolic value as the headquarters of the Islamic State's supposed caliphate, but by this year had lost all of its strategic significance. The Islamic State is greatly weakened and making final stands in cities it once controlled across eastern Syria and northern Iraq. Raqqa was a war zone for more than four and a half years. It was the first Syrian provincial capital to fall out of government control, when the al-Qaida-linked Jabhat al-Nusra took the city in March 2013. Fighting over the years forced most of the city's population into displacement camps around the country. The Islamic State often showcased its most brutal executions in Raqqa, and American journalist James Foley was beheaded in the mountains south of the city. But it was the final offensive that left the city utterly destroyed. A relentless campaign of airstrikes carried out by the U.S.-backed coalition killed scores of civilians and militants alike. As they moved in from the north, Syrian government forces, backed by Turkey and Russia, moved in from the south. The city's infrastructure is in tatters. The citizen journalist group Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently told al Jazeera in late August that the remaining citizens had no access to electricity, water and medical supplies. Food is scarce and much of the region's agricultural capacity has been decimated. "Even if we go back, we will have to bring these tents with us because our houses are destroyed," Fatima Ali, 29, told the Middle East Eye. Ali, a member of Raqqa's Civil Council is living in a camp for internally displaced people. Almost every structure in Raqqa is damaged or destroyed, according to those who've fled. Satellite images from McKenzie Intelligence Service show bridges demolished by airstrikes, cutting the city off from the rest of the county. A World Bank report from January 2017 estimated that Raqqa had been hit by more than 2,000 airstrikes and that nearly 17 percent of the city's housing units are damaged or destroyed. Since then, the city has been hit by at least 2,500 more strikes. The Raqqa Civil Council has said it will need at least $10 million a year to restore basic infrastructure. "It could take 10 years to rebuild," said Ali. A Turkish journalist in Raqqa on Tuesday tweeted an emotional video showing Raqqa residents leaving neighborhoods they had been trapped in through the long months of bombardment. Rami Abdulrahman, the founder of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, told the Post on Tuesday that his organization estimated 1,130 civilians were killed in Raqqa since Jun. 5. When asked how many he'd attribute to the U.S.-backed coalition, he said, "Most of them." On Tuesday, a group of dozens of mostly non-Syrian Islamic State fighters held onto one final position in the city's main stadium. Hundreds surrendered over the past weeks after being offered a chance to escape local prosecution. The majority of Raqqa's prewar population are now either refugees or living elsewhere in Syria. The office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees released a report this month that said nearly 300,000 had fled Raqqa since April, just before the U.S.-backed offensive began. The U.N. also estimated that only 10,000 to 25,000 civilians remained in the city as of August, although exact figures were impossible to ascertain. The Kurdish and Arab troops who now control Raqqa are mostly not from there. Amid the destruction, there will be inevitable disputes over who gets what in the rebuilding process. The city also needs to be cleared of countless mines and booby-traps. What smattering of the Islamic State is left in the region may still be able to launch attacks. Restoring order to this traumatized, haunted city will be a near-impossible task. Several members of the Glen Carbon Police Department were honored at the last regular meeting of the full Board of Trustees. Police Chief Todd Link said all three of the awardees were recognized for the commitment to the citizens of Glen Carbon. Two members of the Police Department were awarded the Life Saving Award. Telecommunicator Autumn Morelan and Officer Andy Parker were given the Life Saving Award for their response to a house fire that occurred on June 6, 2017. Link said Morelan received a call in the dispatch center of a house fire with people still inside the house. After talking with the resident, Morelan learned that due to a disability, the caller was unable to get out of his home. Autumn immediately relayed that information to responding officers, Link said. Officer Parker was the first officer to arrive on-scene. He entered the burning structure, found the resident trapped inside, and was able to pull him outside to safety, Link said. Link said Glen Carbon Fire Chief Ralph Well said Morelan followed her training to the letter, making sure to deliver time-checks to the fire fighters, and record vital information as it occurred. Had Autumn not acted quickly and decisively as she did, a life would have been lost that day, Link said. She brings a calm and effective demeanor to her job, as a co-worker, is always willing to contribute to the overall effectiveness of the dispatch center." Coleen Schaller, police support service supervisor, said Morelan is a model of what it takes to be an accomplished and successful Glen Carbon telecommunicator. Police Officer Bronson Painter was given the Officer of the Mid-Year award. Painter is a nine-year veteran of the police department and serves as one of the two business district officers. Officer Painter engages in high visibility community policing throughout our business corridors, Link said. I have received very positive reviews of the preventive police work done by Officer Painter and I know his efforts to combat theft, especially retail theft, have been a big part of our success within our business district. Painter is a graduate of Staunton High School and attended Lewis and Clark and Southwestern Illinois community colleges. He is currently attending night school to finish his bachelors degree. Mayor Rob Jackstadt congratulated the award recipients on behalf of the village. On behalf of the board and the residents of Glen Carbon, congratulations and thank you for your service to our community. The low-visibility Virginia attorney general's race is increasingly heated, as the Republican and Democrat push out ads attacking each other just days ahead of their second and final debate. Incumbent Mark Herring, a Democrat, and his Republican challenger John Adams occupy opposite ends of the political spectrum, and their ads reflect their partisan views as well as their different ideas about the role of attorney general. Herring has gone after the Trump administration's policies, challenging the constitutionality of the president's first immigration ban, joining with other attorneys general in suing the administration over its decision to end federal subsidies to health insurers while also opposing the administration's move to end contraception coverage required by the Affordable Care Act. Herring also joined a lawsuit that challenged Virginia's ban on same-sex marriage, a case made moot by the decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that gay Americans have the right to marry. His campaign plans to focus on health care in the final three weeks, highlighting Adams's opposition to Obamacare and Medicaid expansion, as well as Adams's support for the Trump administration's decision to allow employers to deny workers insurance coverage for contraceptives. Adams, a politically conservative attorney who works at a powerful Richmond, Virginia, law firm, charges that Herring should stick to the job of advising the General Assembly and defending state laws. Adams said his personal beliefs - he is opposed to abortion, same-sex marriage and requirements that employers provide contraceptive coverage - will not influence his decisions as attorney general. "I think the attorney general needs to defend the laws that the citizens passed . . . not pick and choose," Adams told the Richmond Times-Dispatch editorial board recently. The candidates accuse each other of misrepresenting their positions. But Mark Rozell, dean of the George Mason University Schar School of Policy and Government, said both men are simply playing to their base, trying to turn out their voters in what is traditionally a low-turnout election. Polls show that Herring holds a narrow but consistent lead over Adams, but many voters remain undecided. "It seems that the candidates have all forgotten about appealing to the middle and mobilizing the independent voters, which is puzzling given that the Post/Schar School poll showed the Virginia electorate is about one-third independents," Rozell said. "Appealing to the independent voter used to have a moderating influence on campaigns. Now that candidates play mostly to the base, all restraint goes out the window." The candidates will meet Friday morning at a Leesburg, Virginia, event sponsored by the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce, and unlike their June 17 meeting, this one could be bare-knuckled. With just three weeks to go before Election Day, each camp is running both broadcast and digital attack ads. Herring's latest, released Monday, calls Adams's health-care stance "a disaster for Virginia families . . . seniors charged thousands more . . . denying coverage to thousands of veterans, children and the disabled." The Adams campaign, meanwhile, "tweaked" an earlier ad that targeted Herring for failing to follow up a proposal by his predecessor, Republican Ken Cuccinelli, who suggested setting aside money to build shelters for victims of sex trafficking. The new version removes disputed details but charges that Herring "put his friends ahead of the needy, the vulnerable, victims." The Republican Attorneys General Association has been the single biggest donor to the Adams campaign so far, giving $2.75 million. The Adams campaign says three-quarters of its ad spending has been positive. "Our strong fundraising allows us to advertise statewide to introduce John, a first time candidate for any office, to Virginia voters and highlight what makes him the best choice to be the next Attorney General," campaign manager Nick Collette said in a statement. "We also have the resources to educate voters on Herring's dismal record as Attorney General - a record of pursuing his political agenda and ignoring the law." The Democratic Attorneys General Association, Herring's top donor, has given more than $1 million to Herring, and Michael Bloomberg's Independence USA PAC has contributed $825,000 in the past two years. Pro- and anti-gun groups are also weighing into the race, with the National Rifle Association spending more than $600,000 on anti-Herring ads this election season, Zuckerman said. Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund, an advocacy group funded by Bloomberg, is supporting Herring with $300,000. Both campaigns reported raising about $1.6 million in campaign contributions in September. The Herring campaign reported that it started October with more than $2.5 million cash on hand. Adams raised $1.6 million in September, and as of Sept. 30, his campaign fund had $251,000 cash on hand, but the campaign said it added $1.6 million during the first two weeks of October. Virginia State Sen. Jennifer T. Wexton, D-Loudoun, outraised her rivals for the Democratic nomination to challenge Rep. Barbara Comstock, R-Va., next year, while anti-human trafficking activist Alison Friedman has the most cash on hand, according to new campaign finance reports. Wexton, the only elected official in the Democratic nomination contest, raised the most in the reporting period that spanned July 1 to Sept. 30, with $255,075. In the previous, quarter, she had been last in fundraising for the race, with $201,964. The Northern Virginia district could be among the nation's most competitive, and eight Democrats are seeking their party's nomination. Hillary Clinton bested Trump in the 10th District, which includes all of Loudoun County and parts of Fairfax and Prince William counties as well as all of Frederick and Clarke counties to the west. Wexton has $345,640 cash on hand, which is in line with communications strategist Lindsey Davis Stover's war chest. Stover raised $137,137 in the most recent quarter, a drop from her previous quarterly total of $306,351. Army veteran Dan Helmer also raised less this quarter, with $163,139 compared with $365,721 in previous quarter, but has a healthy $397,941 cash on hand. In September, Helmer released a video spoofing a "Top Gun" scene in which he sang "You've Lost That Centrist Feeling" to a Comstock look-alike. The ad was widely derided and caught the attention of comedian Stephen Colbert, who aired it on "The Late Show" last month. But Helmer's campaign spokeswoman said the attention translated into a fundraising bump. Fundraising for Wexton, Stover and Helmer, however, lags behind that of Friedman, who has $553,456 cash on hand. She raised $241,857 in the most recent quarter and $452,329 the one before - the strongest showing among Democratic candidates in the District at that time. The nomination contest is still months away, and Democrats say fundraising and attention will pick up after the Virginia governor's race in three weeks. "It's still very early," said David Wasserman, who analyzes House races for the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, "and none of them have even raised enough money to go up on Washington, D.C., television for a week. There's still a lot of money they need to raise. At this point, they've demonstrated that they're serious." And in terms of money, none has caught up with Comstock, who is seeking a third term. She raised $447,993 in the latest quarter, for a total of $1,328,294. She has $985,348 cash on hand. The congresswoman's political director, Ken Nunnenkamp, said Democrats have spent more than $20 million trying to defeat Comstock in three campaigns for state delegate and two for Congress. "Barbara's always been underestimated and we don't expect that to change. Barbara's always overperformed, and that won't change either," he said in a statement. There are three other Democrats raising money to challenge Comstock. School founder Deep Sran has $150,305 cash on hand and has loaned his campaign $62,698. Retired naval intelligence officer Dave Hanson has $8,506, and educator Kimberly Adams has $6,656. Financial consultant Michael Pomerleano filed paperwork apparently closing his campaign account, according to FEC records. He did not return messages Monday. Julia Biggins, a scientist from Manassas, filed the paperwork to run as a Democrat last week and announced her candidacy on Facebook. Attempts to reach her were unsuccessful. Democrats will choose a method of nomination - whether a state-run primary or a party-run caucus - next month. There's still time for a self-funded candidate to emerge in the race and shake things up, Wasserman, the analyst, noted. He pointed to an example from Maryland: Wine magnate David Trone who spent more than $13 million in a Democratic primary in 2016 - and lost. He's running again this year in a neighboring district. Wasserman said Wexton is an early favorite because of her institutional advantage, including endorsements from members of the General Assembly and Democratic Reps. Gerald E. Connolly and A. Donald McEachin. It also should help that Wexton is a former prosecutor from Loudoun, where most of the district's Democrats live, he said. Cook categorizes the race as a toss-up largely because of voters' distaste for Trump and their tendency to split their tickets - preferring candidates of one party for president and the other for Congress. "Most voters went to polls thinking Hillary Clinton would win," he said, referring to Comstock's 6-point win last year. "Now they are open to voting for a Democrat as a check on President Trump." Comstock has separated herself from Trump. In May, she voted against a House overhaul of the Affordable Care Act, and she recently joined 18 GOP colleagues in voting against a House budget resolution, which she said would hurt federal workers, many of whom live in her district. Her Republican opponent, Shak Hill, has raised $53,051 and has $32,629 to spend. The Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program has launched its drive to gather supplies for the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday Meal Basket program. Needed items include: Chicken broth, flour, granulated sugar (four-pound bags), brown sugar (one-pound bags), evaporated milk, stuffing mix, canned pumpkin, yams, fruit cocktail, corn, green beans and cranberry sauce. Monetary donations are welcome. Collected funds will be used to purchase turkey and other items for the baskets. RACAP also allows organizations to sponsor a family. RACAP sponsor applications should be returned by Oct. 27. Call the RACAP office, 210-658-1613, or email: racapholidayprog@att.net for more information. Two suspects nabbed after ramming Randolph fence A high-speed chase that triggered a rare lockdown at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph ended with two suspects in Air Force custody and a massive search of the base for a third man Sunday morning. The chase began Saturday afternoon on Interstate 10 after a Guadalupe County deputy recognized a car reported stolen in Houston and tried to stop the vehicle, a Ford Bronco. After driving about five miles, the driver of the Bronco increased speed and turned north onto FM 1518. The SUV crashed into the bases perimeter fence. The men then scrambled on foot, initially eluding authorities. They were later captured outside the nearby Randolph Parr Club. Randolph resumed normal operations Sunday morning after overnight sweeps of the base failed to turn up the third suspect. The other two men were handed over to Guadalupe County sheriffs deputies, but not identified by jail officials. San Antonio Carver Library to host book sale Oct. 20-21 The Carver Library will host a book sale Friday, Oct. 20, and Saturday, Oct. 21 at the library, 3350 Commerce St. The sale, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, will include books for adults and children. Donations are welcome. Contact Shirley Coleman at 210-333-1705 for more information. Schertz Landscapes of Texas art contest under way in SCUC The Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District, in conjunction with Schertz Historical Preservation Committee, is sponsoring the Fourth Annual Art Contest for all district students in K-12. This years theme is Landscapes of Texas, with an emphasis on landscape features such as mountains, basins, coastal plains, forests and prairie. Deadline for submission will be 3 p.m. Friday (Oct. 20) to the campus member designated to receive them. Judging will take place the week of Oct. 30-Nov. 3. SCUC and Historical Society representatives will serve as judges. The top three submissions in each category receive an SHPC Certificate of Achievement, have their work displayed at Schertz City Council and SCUC board meetings, and be part of a feature story in Schertz Magazine. Details are available on the SCUC ISD website or by calling Becky Williams, SCUCISD social studies coordinator, at 210-945-6002. Universal City UC library to host virtual reality event In concert with its Monarch Butterfly Flyby Party, the Universal City Public Library is hosting a Virtual Reality event on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. at the library, 100 Northview. Participants will slot into 10-minute time frames and experience what its like to see, draw and paint butterflies in the realm of Virtual Reality. Jason Flinn, a software engineer with Home Depot in Round Rock and a 2010 Judson High School graduate, will be on hand to outfit all comers for their Virtual Reality experience. He uses the HTC Vive coupled with a custom-made computer and two hand controllers to immerse yourself in a 360-degree virtual environment, a 360-degree experience, he said. The 10-minute time periods will be quick introduction to VR and an opportunity to create 3D images. Flinn will set up an accompanying screen that will allow others to view what the person is creating during his or her VR time. The event is free and open to the public. Call the library at 659-7048 to request a time slot. Universal City man dies in home invasion shooting A homeowner fatally shot by an intruder Oct. 10 in Universal City confronted the suspect moments after opening his bedroom door, according to police. Michael Clayton Robinson, 51, was fatally shot just before 2:30 a.m. inside his home in the 8400 block of Ulysses Drive, according to the Universal City Police Department. The suspect, Jonathan Andrew Perales, 18, was also shot but survived, police said. He was arrested by responding officers shortly after the fatal confrontation. Compiled by staff There was a kettle-style bowl of fire-roasted verde salsa, served alongside sliced avocado. Slivers of fresh mango floated in two bowls of mango habanero salsa. Sonia de Oaxaca salsa came from a long-held family recipe. Creamy tomatillo, cilantro and avocado salsa was nicknamed Sneaky Heat. Culinary arts student-chefs from eight high schools in and around San Antonio competed Oct. 11 in the 10th annual St. Philips College Best-Tasting Salsa Scholarship Competition. Two chefs from each school came prepared to wow the judges and earn scholarships to study with the St. Philips College tourism, hospitality and culinary arts program. Students, dressed in traditional chef jackets, came with their utensils, ingredients and menus in tow. All salsas had to be prepared in one hour and produced entirely in cooking labs on the St. Philips campus. Students then had 20 minutes to carry their creations into the newly remodeled Turbon Student Center and set up their salsa-inspired tables and decor. Its exciting to me to see how the culinary arts and hospitality industry is growing in the city, and how young an audience we are capturing and that are getting interested in it, said Patrick Costello, St. Philips College chef instructor and emcee for the event. Were so used to, Is it red or green, and these kids are really bringing a new take and some outside-the-box thinking on salsa preparations, Costello said. School chefs were scored on their kitchen techniques and fundamentals, presentation, originality, creativity, salsa taste and salsa texture. Once the four-judge panel finished its examination of all eight entries, the third category the Peoples Choice was determined by votes cast by the dozens of people who flocked into the student center room in order to sample the tempting salsas. Last year, Steele High School emerged with the winning team, as the teams kiwi avocado salsa verde wowed the judges. This year, Steele, along with Clemens High School , were shut out of the top three spots and the Peoples Choice competition. But the chefs considered the loss a speed bump on their paths to careers in the culinary field. Jose Aponte, a Steele senior, presented a traditional salsa Sonia de Oaxaca Salsa that has its roots within his family. This is one that my mother used to make, he said. So, I made this in tribute to my mom. He made the salsa using Oaxaca cheese, a flavor that he learned to appreciate over time. When I first tried it, I wasnt a big fan of it. But then I tried it more and fell in love with it, its just delicious, he said. Flavors that stand out in the Steele salsa, he said, are the tomatoes and the nopales that, when blended with the cheese, makes it creamy and smooth. Its not like a pico de gallo salsa. Its not chunky. You dont bite into it. The tomato, the cheese, the nopal, it just melts in your mouth, Aponte said. This is Apontes first year in the Steele culinary program. He said he loves food, has always had an interest in it, and wants to cook and eat healthy once hes on his own. Clemens chefs James Rowe and Cameron Patino created a mango pineapple salsa thats a shift from the traditional red-and-green salsa offerings. Patino said he loves the salsa, which was on the sweeter side but had a slight kick once introduced to the palate. Rowe said it definitely was a sweet-and-spicy concoction. As soon as the sweet goes away, you start feeling the heat in your mouth. Its not overbearing, its just enough, he said. Patino said the recipe emerged from a salsa competition in Steeles culinary class and this is what I came up with. I feel like I put my own twist on it, he added. You dont see many salsas that have pineapple in it, Rowe said. And its not just the chunks, but theres also a sauce, a puree, that comes with it. Thats where most of the flavor comes from. Patino said he grew up in the kitchen, and his mother is his cooking inspiration. He said he would like to pursue a business management degree and open his own restaurant. Rowe said hes been accepted into the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Austin, and wants to study the business aspects of being a restaurateur. Students from Brandeis High School walked away with the first-place prize this year for their fire-roasted verde salsa. The Peoples Choice award went to Taft High School, last years runners-up, for the teams Sneaky Heat salsa, a creamy tomatillo, cilantro and avocado blend. Each of the four students, as well as the third-place finishers from Whitehouse High School in East Texas, received $500 scholarships to attend St. Philips. A stylish bowl trophy was presented to the winning schools by Ace Mart Restaurant Supply, one of the longtime sponsors of the salsa competition and the colleges culinary program. jflinn@express-news.net This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A San Antonio father was arrested Saturday after police said he fractured the femur of his then 9-month-old son. Jerry Casillas, 28, was charged with causing severe bodily injury to a child. He was booked into the Bexar County Jail but has since posted a $30,000 bond. RELATED: Former foster daughters react to arrest of S.A.-area man accused of sexually assaulting 5 girls Court records indicate the incident occurred on May 28 at Casillas' home. Witnesses told police Casillas brought the victim, who is now 1 year old, to a party for a few hours and then headed back home. Once home, he took the child out of a car seat and headed upstairs to change the child's diaper, police said. About five minutes later, witnesses heard high-pitched crying and walked up stairs to investigate, authorities said. A witness reportedly found Casillas holding the child by the legs. Casillas allegedly told the witness he didn't know what happened, but police said he later admitted to injuring the child, though only accidentally. RELATED: Gunmen at large after killing 1, hospitalizing 1 in Northeast Side shooting, police say Doctors at San Antonio Military Medical Center, after conducting multiple medical examinations on the victim, said the only cause of the injury could be "non-accidental trauma" . Authorities secured a warrant for Casillas' arrest following interviews with a witness on Oct. 1. He was booked into jail about two weeks later. The current status of the victim is unknown. Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com cdowns@mysa.com | Twitter: @calebjdowns A 27-year-old man was arrested Friday and accused of prostituting a 17-year-old girl on Backpage.com. Brandon Simmons, of San Antonio, was charged with trafficking of a person under 18 years old. He remains in the Bexar County Jail on a $40,000 bond. According to his arrest affidavit, the victim met Simmons after she ran away from home. He took her in and allegedly began prostituting her on Backpage.com. RELATED: Former foster daughters react to arrest of S.A.-area man accused of sexually assaulting 5 girls Authorities said Simmons would drive the victim to apartments and hotels, where she would have sex in exchange for money that she later gave to Simmons. "The victim stated that [Simmons] set the rate for the prostitution and also acted as her bodyguard for protection against the aggressive sex clients," the affidavit says. RELATED: S.A. man allegedly caught in back of car with 14-year-old girl accused of sexually assaulting her On June 13 Simmons and the victim were robbed of their car at gunpoint. Police later arrested the suspects in the robbery and recovered the vehicle. But during interviews with police immediately after the robbery, the victim told police about the prostitution, according to the affidavit. Authorities secured a warrant for Simmons' arrest and booked him into jail. 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 Diagnosed with Parkinsons disease while in his 50s, Lorenzo Larry Gonzalez, who had served three tours in Vietnam with the Navy, decided there had to be a reason. He started to ask himself why then he started doing some research, said his wife, Rachel Gonzalez. He found two other men they got together and started finding others who had Parkinsons and had been in Vietnam. After a few years of research, Gonzalez and the other veterans were able to establish a connection between Agent Orange exposure and developing Parkinsons disease. Presenting their research to the Institute of Medicine in 2008, the veterans were instrumental in the disease being added to the Veterans Administrations presumptive list of service-connected diseases, which enabled thousands of veterans to get help. Gonzalez died of cancer Oct. 10 at 69. The oldest of six children raised on the West Side, Gonzalez graduated from Jefferson High School in 1966 before enrolling at what was then San Antonio Community College. Joining the Navy in 1969 after realizing he would soon be drafted anyway, he was sent to the Mekong Delta as a river rat, the nickname given to members of the River Patrol Force. Trained as an electrician, Gonzalez also worked on aircraft carriers during his three tours. More Information Lorenzo "Larry" Gonzalez Born: Jan. 28, 1948, San Antonio Died: Oct. 10, 2017, San Antonio Preceded by: Father Valentin Gonzalez Survived by: Wife Rachel Gonzalez; sons Alejandro Gonzalez and daughter-in-law Michelle, and Emilio Gonzalez; daughter Marisa Gonzalez; mother Consuelo Gonzalez; a grandson; two brothers; three sisters Services: Rosary at 7 p.m. Tuesday at The Angelus Funeral Home, 1119 N. St. Mary's St.; Mass at 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Paul Catholic Church, 350 Sutton Drive, followed by burial at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery See More Collapse Discharged in 1972, Gonzalez returned to San Antonio, married and began working for Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. as a lineman, also starting college again. After attending St. Marys University full time, Gonzalez graduated with an electrical engineering degree in 1980 and was immediately recruited by several companies. Choosing AT&T, Gonzalez worked with the company for 17 years before being laid off, at which time he started his own company selling scanners and conducting software classes. He developed early symptoms of Parkinsons in the mid-2000s. Co-founding the U.S. Military Veterans with Parkinsons, Gonzalez helped analyze numerous studies and interviewed hundreds other Vietnam veterans who had developed the disease, usually about 33 years after returning from the war. Even as his health failed, forcing him to stop working, Gonzalez continued to try to find answers. He was always doing research, his wife said. Always reading about Parkinsons; he wanted to know what caused it. mheidbrink@express-news.net President Donald Trump has made a lot of promises on health care. Somehow, though, I dont remember him promising stadiums of cheering fans that hed take away protections for pre-existing conditions, increase deductibles, spike premiums, eliminate basic coverage requirements and, more generally, destabilize the individual health-insurance market. But that is what he said hed do recently, when he signed an executive order on health care. They are the consequences of the policy bombs he wants to set off in two relatively obscure corners of the insurance market: association health plans and short-term health plans. What are these plans, you might ask? Under current law, an association of small businesses (such as a group of law firms) can band together and market insurance to members. These association health plans must abide by all the consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act. They are also subject to the insurance laws and rules of the state in which theyre sold. But under Trumps executive order, depending on what the final regulations say, an association could exempt itself from lots of federal Obamacare requirements (such as essential health benefits) and choose any state to be its regulator (regardless of where its members are). This would not only rob states of their sovereignty but also create a race to the bottom. Pursuing ever-lower premiums, every association would likely incorporate in the most Wild-West-like state around, in the way that credit card companies tend to domicile in South Dakota. What about those short-term health plans? These can sometimes serve a legitimate purpose a stopgap to tide you over for the summer until the school year starts, for instance. But after Obamacare passed, there was a proliferation of scammy short-term plans that werent so short term. Some lasted 364 days! Why? They walked and talked like traditional insurance, but as long as they were less than 12 months, they were not technically considered insurance, explains Sabrina Corlette, a research professor at Georgetown Universitys Health Policy Institute. As such, the plans werent subject to Obamacare consumer protections such as essential health benefits and guaranteed issue to people with pre-existing conditions. Insurers could offer skimpy plans and cherry-pick the cheapest, most profitable enrollees. The Obama administration ultimately closed this loophole by determining that short-term plans must be shorter than three months. With his executive order, Trump seeks to re-lengthen those plans. Two main problems will result from these two moves. One is that, absent minimums for quality and regulatory oversight, lots of Americans are likely to get conned into plans that cover almost nothing. The bigger problem is called adverse selection. Thats the idea that healthy people will sort into low-cost, bare-bones plans, while relatively costly people will stay in the more generous, Obamacare-compliant plans, which cant legally turn customers away. Premiums in Obamacare plans would then spike, driving out more relatively healthy people, further driving up premiums, and so on. In the end, the whole individual market falls apart, leaving us with basically the pre-Obamacare system. The only good news is that Trumps executive order doesnt have force of law. Its a set of instructions for Cabinet members to come up with further regulations. These may turn out to be weaker than Trump has implied, especially because some elements of the order appear legally dubious. They also wont be ready in time for the upcoming 2018 open enrollment season. In the meantime, though, Trumps executive order will spook a lot of insurers, which have only just recently found their footing in the existing system. And its also likely to confuse consumers, which could depress enrollment and destabilize markets further. Which would be pretty much on brand for this nihilistic president: When you cant come up with a new system that works, just blow up the old one. crampell@washpost.com Republican Sen. Bob Corker, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee and well-respected by his colleagues, has spoken publicly what many of his colleagues are saying privately, according to reports. Corker said, Trumps reckless threats could spark World War III. Many people have questioned the presidents stability and competency, as the senator has, but most from his party dont dare say it publicly. With the presidents current 32 percent approval rating, people are criticizing his frequent inappropriate actions from ignoring the Paris climate agreement to wrecking the EPA to repealing DACA. Hopefully, more senators will have the courage to replace this man ASAP by using the 25th Amendment, buttressed by the results of Robert Muellers independent investigation. Adam Castillo Climate alarmists Re: San Antonios Future: 60 days over 100 degrees, front page, Sept. 24: This alarmist headline has no basis in fact. The article relies on selective modeling samples to predict future 100-degree weather. Climate models, especially outdated ones like those used in the article, routinely overestimate warming. Historically, there has been a large disparity between future temperature predictions and what has been observed. For example, in 2017, there were 15 days of 100 degree weather, the same number of days in 1909 and 1964. Last year, San Antonio had only six days of 100 degree weather, a significantly lower number of days than observed in the 1940s and 1950s. Additionally, there have been 21 years when there were more days of 100 degree weather than in 2017. So the claim that it wasnt always this hot in San Antonio is simply untrue. Such statements are based on unfounded speculation intended for one purpose: to alarm the public into thinking catastrophic climate change is imminent. This article attributes warming solely to human activity without mentioning the impact of natural variability on our continually and naturally changing climate. U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith Sasha Haagensen/Stringer Creating music is as innate as sleeping and eating. It's a part of every culture and nationality. Watching Houston artists like Slim Thug and Chamillioniare go from being musicians to entrepreneurs has helped to inspire people on multiple levels. As a melting pot of cultures, music creators in the U.S. have much inspiration to draw upon. Such inspiration has led to the evolution of music - in styles, preferences and techniques. We've also seen an incredible shift in technology, both as it relates to the creation of, and ultimately, consumption of music. We have gone from digging in the crates to tens of thousands of songs in the palm of your hand. However, while music technology has advanced, the laws governing it have not. The impact of outdated music laws not only affect my work as an artist but also the work of my colleagues, the producers, sound engineers and songwriters who all play a part in the creation of a song. These individuals are not given fair recognition and compensation under current copyright and music licensing laws. While the next generation of young artists is already pushing the next step in music's evolution, such contributions to our society and culture are not being appropriately rewarded, and we may lose out on something great. As music industry laws lag behind reality, it's hard to imagine a future where creators see this industry as a viable career option. INDIANAPOLIS Rickers reduced emissions program, Replenish, is proving its commitment to the local and global environment as it continues to grow. In May 2016, Rickers introduced the Rickers Replenish program with GreenPrint LLC at more than 500 pumps at 32 locations in the Indianapolis metro area. Since the launch, the Replenish program has offset more than 115 million pounds of carbon tailpipe emissions and planted 20,000 trees across 20 acres in Indiana. Through its partnership with Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Rickers Replenish has supported and participated in six community volunteer projects. During a planting event at Beech Grove Middle School on October 12, the Rickers volunteers, parents and students celebrated as they officially planted the 20,000th tree since the programs launch. Additionally, earlier this year, Rickers Replenish donated $25,000 to fund the Bicentennial Statehouse project to replace and plant 44 trees indigenous on the Indiana Statehouse lawn. We are thrilled to continue supporting our communities through the Replenish program. I want to thank our customers for getting behind this initiative with us. It is the support of our customers that has allowed the Replenish program, along with our network of colleagues and GreenPrint, to reduce over 800,000 tons of CO2 tailpipe emissions and plant over 60,000 trees in many communities across the United States! said Quinn Ricker, president/CEO of Rickers, in a press release. Rickers Replenish will continue to make a positive impact on the Indianapolis metro community and its environment as the program sets aggressive goals for 2018 and beyond. As of today, Replenish plans to plant thousands of more trees with Replenish partners such as Keep Indianapolis Beautiful and the Arbor Day Foundation. Its estimated that by 2019, Replenish will have offset more than 220 million gallons of its customer gasoline purchases. Additionally, Rickers continues to make environmental commitments such as the recent installment of energy-efficient LED lights, including under-the-canopy LEDS, low water flow sinks and eco-friendly hand dryers. Trees not only provide beauty to our communities, they provide immense environmental benefits as well. Partners like Rickers and its Replenish program are helping us plant much needed trees to provide oxygen and clean the air we breathe. Because of reduced emissions programs like Replenish, we are able to limit the impact our daily lives have on the environment. Thanks to this program, people in Indianapolis have a convenient, simple way to offset their footprint, plant trees with us, and give back to their communities, said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation. CHICAGO Behind baby boomers, millennials represent the biggest generational shift for todays companies. Organizations who fail to develop a strategy for attracting, rewarding and retaining todays millennial workforce could fall behind the competition. Staying ahead requires understanding the millennial mindset, suggests Nichole Upshaw, executive director of human resources at RaceTrac Petroleum Inc. Upshaw is a panelist at Wednesdays education session, Making the Gig Economy Work for You: Attract, Incent and Retain Gig Employees in the Age of Uber. That outlook includes understanding workforce issues such as job stacking (holding multiple part-time jobs), disinterest in career progression and self-actualization. You think you know what employees are looking for, but do you? Upshaw said. What was once valued in the employee experience is changing. Not every person is motivated the same way. The gig economy is defined as a non-traditional workforce of freelancers. These are individuals who seek out jobs (anything from part-time retail to driving for car services) over career loyalty to a single employer. Many individuals are carrying two to three jobs at a time, Upshaw said. Gig employers, like Uber and Lyft, also take from the c-store candidate pool. Our lake has more employers fishing in it, and c-stores are now competing with employers that did not exist before. Employees struggle to balance multiple part-time work schedules and are now leading an epidemic of call-out behavior, which is contacting employers last minute to say they arent coming into work. Climbing the career ladder is less appealing than it used to be. Instead, todays employees want to have more control over their time, their schedule and how they work. Conversely, employers struggle to piece together employee schedules and face increased restrictions on availability. High demand from the competition results in high turnover, especially because most c-stores are expanding the complexities of their business through foodservice and other offerings. Ultimately, high turnover in a complex business results in inconsistent experiences for the consumer. The current shift in attracting part-time employees requires business leaders to develop successful talent strategies. Its important to educate front-line managers on how to work with the changing workforce. Retailers like Sheetz, QuikTrip, RaceTrac and Maverik are aligning their initiatives with todays workforce as well. Upshaw said c-stores should listen to their employees and ask them if the companys current programs and processes are a match for their motivations. If not, break down and rebuild these in a way that will create a competitive environment that encourages as much stability as possible in the right places. Consider programs and processes that offer flexibility, which is what employees desire. For example, responsive schedules are important the gig economy and technology can help. New scheduling software allows managers to fill shifts in real time based on collected data versus spending valuable time calling employees to come into work. Likewise, electronic, employee-driven training is a more efficient way to train versus the side-by-side method the industry now uses. If you dont build your business processes, programs and operation to be simple and agile, you could have a business model that wont survive in a high turnover environment, Upshaw said. Watching our industry get more complex creates an added layer of challenge to ensure we are also keeping it simple. If it takes 30 days to get an employee to competency, yet folks are leaving your organization within that same time frame, you cannot create the stability needed to run the business effectively. Attend Making the Gig Economy Work for You: Attract, Incent and Retain Gig Employees in the Age of Uber tomorrow at the NACS Show. Find the newest releases to watch from National Geographic on Disney+, including favourite documentary series and films Free Solo, The Rescue, Shark Beach with Chris Hemsworth and The World According to Jeff Goldblum. A councillor has said Clonmel Credit Union shouldn't seek to merge with any further credit unions in the wake of the appointment of liquidators to a Co. Cork credit union that Clonmel CU engaged in merger talks with earlier this year. Clonmel Credit Union's Board of Directors decided against proceeding with the merger with the financially troubled Charleville Credit Union at the end of March. The decision followed disquiet over the proposed deal with 69 Clonmel Credit Union members signing a petition at a public meeting requesting a special general meeting. Last Friday, the High Court appointed provisional liquidators to Charleville CU after various efforts since 2007 to deal with its problems were not successful. Central to those problems was its failure to bring its reservces up to the regulatory requirement of 10 per centre of assets. Its reserves were just 3.5 per cent last June. Independent Clonmel Cllr Richie Molloy, a former member of Clonmel Credit Union's Board of Directors, has paid tribute to the members and Board of Directors of Clonmel Credit Union for the decision not to proceed with a merger with Charleville CU. And he said Clonmel CU shouldn't seek to merge with any other credit unions as it's big enough and strong enough to stand on its own. Clonmel Credit Union CEO Paul Davey said Clonmel CU's Board of Directors made a pragmatic decision not to proceed with the merger after carrying out due diligence, examining all aspects of the merger deal and receiving financial and legal advice. He pointed out that Clonmel CU was assured during the merger talks that "no legacy issues" from Charleville CU would have transferred to Clonmel CU. He insisted opposition from members of the credit union wasn't the deciding factor in the Board's decision not to proceed with the merger. He also pointed out that Clonmel Credit Union had made similar decisions not to proceed with mergers on nine other occasions previously. But Cllr Molloy believes credit union members' opposition was a major factor in the Board of Directors decision to abandon the merger. "If we had gone ahead with the Charleville CU merger I think it would have damaged Clonmel Credit Union overall, especially when Clonmel CU has been self sufficient to date," said Cllr Molloy. "I and a lot of other Clonmel Credit Union members couldn't for the life of me understand the need for merging with a credit union outside our common bond area." "I have sympathy for the staff and members of Charleville CU but we couldn't support damaging Clonmel Credit Union to prop it up." He fears that merging with another credit union in another county outside Clonmel's "common bond" area of 12 miles would change the credit union's ethos. Cllr Molloy urged Clonmel Credit Union members to attend their credit union's annual general meetings in greater numbers if they wish to have their say on its policies and direction. He said the attendance at the credit union's agms has been poor in the last number of years. "Every member has a vote and it's up to the members themselves to become active in their credit union." At this year's agm, Cllr Molloy said members should stress to the Board of Directors that Clonmel CU shouldn't merge with any othe credit union as it doesn't need to do so. "I understand there is pressure coming from the League of Credit Unions for credit unions to merge but I feel Clonmel Credit Union can stand alone. It's big enough." Mr Davey, meanwhile, said the media coverage surrounding Charleville Credit Union was regrettable as was the loss to that credit union's staff, 12,000 members and their local community. Mr Davey added that Clonmel CU has focussed on its normal business activities since the merger controversy ended and it was having another very successful year. By the time the two evacuees from California's North Bay wildfires reached Ronit Rubinoff's house in Sebastopol Sunday morning, the women had slept in their car in a grocery store parking lot, put up at an animal shelter and bunked with strangers. It would have been a harrowing experience for most anyone. But the six days were exceptionally tough for 72-year-old Deborah Sawyer and 86-year-old Mildred Liles. "I didn't have any place to go," Sawyer said Monday afternoon. For now, they can stay with Rubinoff through a quickly arranged emergency house-sharing program in Sonoma County, which is pairing those left homeless by the fires with those who have rooms to spare. The program had already made 75 matches over the weekend and was amassing piles of applications as fast as volunteers could fill them out. Five hundred homes were available from people throughout the area, up and down the California coast, outnumbering the families who had so far sought shelter. Someone called to offer a campground, and that's where 22 members of the Huntington Fire Department who arrived to help will stay. "It's very rewarding," said Amy Appleton, the executive director of SHARE Sonoma County, the permanent house-share program for older residents on which she based the emergency one. "We are genuinely helping people who are severely traumatized. You're trying to give them some sense of stability while they try to figure things out." The deadliest wildfires in California history, which have been burning for more than a week, killed at least 41 people and destroyed nearly 6,000 homes. About 34,000 people remained under evacuation Tuesday, down from 40,000 on Monday. Housing was already in short supply in hard hit Sonoma County, where rental vacancy rates fell from 5.8 percent in 2011 to 1.8 percent in 2015, and homeowner vacancy rates dropped from 2.2 percent to 1 percent. The county grew by 30,000 people between 2006 and 2015, but added only about 11,000 housing units. Across California the statistics aren't more forgiving. One research company, Beacon Economics, found that in 2014, California ranked 49th in the country in homeownership and was last in affordability. The Sonoma County SHARE program is meant to keep older homeowners in their homes by finding younger tenants who can help cover the costs of utility bills or mortgages. The emergency program will draw on that model by helping the evacuees to find the services they need, and it is already setting up a corps of volunteers to make weekly calls to ensure the shares are working smoothly. "It's hard to live with anybody in any kind of situation, even harder when they're stressed," said Elece Hempel, the executive director of Petaluma People Services Center, where the program is based. Outside The Press Democrat building in Santa Rosa over the weekend, where a relief center had been set up, lines stretched of people waiting to register for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other state and local agencies. Jane Matthew and her husband were among them, their house in Santa Rosa destroyed in the flames. They and her 91-year-old mother are staying with their son but need somewhere more permanent nearby and were considering trying the home-sharing program for help. "We literally only had five minutes to get out," she said. "Smoke was everywhere. We got an emergency call to leave because we had a landline. If we haven't got the landline anybody who had a cellphone in the neighborhood did not get that phone call." Matthew, 58, who runs a daycare center for the Santa Rosa schools, has already visited some of the children in the shelters and knows how traumatized they are. She said one told her, "My house blew up." "I want to get back to work," Matthew said. Rubinoff, 52, who is the executive director for Legal Aid of Sonoma County, had spent a day at the relief center answering legal questions and was already foreseeing problems with renters facing price gouging and efforts to push them out of their homes. "We're expecting a big spike in renter-related issues," she said. Kayaks lined her driveway, emptied out of the house to make room for Sawyer and Liles. She is turning over her bedroom to them and will sleep in another room or camp out in her backyard. "It seems like everybody I know has someone in their house, and it's the right thing to do," she said. "How can one sit in one's house with all this room when there are people sleeping in campsites and shelters? It's unconscionable." [NATL-BAY]'Looks Like a War Zone': Santa Rosa Neighborhood Destroyed in Wildfires Tautuiki Uluilakepa and his family had been staying at a shelter in a high school in Sebastopol, but it was closing and they needed a new place quickly. Meanwhile, 68-year-old Steve Kay had watched the disaster unfold and had wondered what he could do. On Sunday, he was offering three bedrooms in his home in Petaluma to Uluilakepa, his wife, who is a caregiver for the elderly, their 19-year-old son and an older man who lives with them. "This is just so heart-rending for everybody who lost their homes in this tragedy, and because I have three bedrooms I really wanted to see if I could keep a family intact," Kay said. "The worst thing is to have people separated for any length of time." Kay, the author of a marketing and business newsletter for the U.S. meat industry, is originally from New Zealand. Uluilakepa, a self-employed mason who built a patio and retaining wall at the house he had rented in the Coffey Park neighborhood of Santa Rosa, is from Tonga. When they met, the men drew on their shared connection to the South Pacific. "I already know we don't have anything left," Uluilakepa said. "I didn't know I already had a brother here." [NATL-BAY GALLERY]North Bay Wildfires: The Smoldering Aftermath Uluilakepa had woken his family when he smelled the smoke and hurried them out of the house, even as the older man resisted leaving. "I tell him, 'You better listen to me,'" Uluilakepa said. "I said, 'Right now, we have to go.'" They drove south to Rohnert Park and waited until daylight, when Uluilakepa returned by himself to see that they had lost everything. "You're thinking about the next day, what is your next move, where are you going?" Uluilakepa said. Sawyer and Liles had their own frightening escape from their mobile home retirement community, The Orchard. They fled when a neighbor rang the doorbell to warn them to leave. "I looked behind him and there was a fire," Sawyer said. Sawyer helped Liles dress and they fled without their medications, driving for an hour before Sawyer became too tired to go further and pulled into the parking lot of a Raley's supermarket. They slept in their car for three nights before finding room at an animal shelter with other people, plus goats, horses, burros and dogs. At one point, looking for a temporary shelter at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Sawyer almost drove through a barricade and hit a police officer. He found another officer to drive them to safety. "People were just completely wonderful, giving us shelter and help, taking care of us," Sawyer said. Sawyer and Liles have been together for 40 years and married four years ago. Sawyer worked as a postal worker for 20 years, Liles is a retired high school teacher and a U.S. Army veteran, and they moved to The Orchard from Monte Rio along the Russian River. Their mobile park was badly damaged but their home is standing, and Sawyer wants to return. "Tragedies and disasters bring people together," Kay said. "That's why we're in this world, to help each other." As crews gained on the wildfires in California wine country, new blazes broke out Tuesday in other parts of the state, including a fire in the mountains above Los Angeles that threatened a historic observatory and more flames in the Santa Cruz mountains. In the state's hard-hit wine-making region, tens of thousands of people began drifting back to their neighborhoods. Some returned to find their homes gone. The deadliest wildfires in California history have been burning for more than a week, killing at least 41 people and destroying nearly 6,000 homes. About 34,000 people remained under evacuation Tuesday, down from 40,000 on Monday. "It's never going to be the same," said Rob Brown, a supervisor in Mendocino County, where all 8,000 evacuees were cleared to go home Monday. "You're going to have to seek a new normal." The two recently welcomed their first child together The thousands of calls coming from concerned residents in neighboring Sonoma County "have shifted from questions about evacuation to questions about coping," Sonoma County Supervisor Shirlee Zane said. "Many people who call are sad and worried. The shock has worn off," and depression is setting in. As a former grief therapist, she advised people with a family member or loved one who has lost everything to understand they can't fix this but they can offer support. "Provide a compassionate listening ear right now, and let them feel whatever they're feeling," Zane said. And those who must rebuild from nothing are in for a changed life. "You're in for decades," Brown said. "You'll see benefits within years, but you're literally in for decades of recovery." Jennifer Kelly and her husband and three sons lost their home and everything in it to a fire in Middletown in Lake County two years ago. With the new home 95 percent rebuilt, they get nervous when they hear distant sirens or helicopters and air tankers. Far-off plumes of smoke bring on-again, off-again evacuation orders. "I'm pretty anxious," she said Sunday. "We wake up a few times a night. One time last week we saw red on the horizon, which was a little intimidating." The Kellys are ready to evacuate. Since they started from scratch two years ago, there's not much to put in their van aside from their pets. They have talked about what they will do if it happens again: "We're moving far away, to Wyoming," she said. The return home was emotional even for those whose properties were spared. "When we came up to check on it, we were amazed it was here," said Tom Beckman. "All the trivial things we have to work on cleaning up, replacing the stuff in the fridge and freezer that's nothing compared to my friends who lost their homes." In the hard-hit city of Santa Rosa, two hospitals were forced to close during the fires, leaving just one open, St. Joseph Health. Eighty-three hospital employees and 51 doctors lost homes during the fires, though many continued to report to work. "We expect the number to go up," said St. Joseph Health spokeswoman Vanessa DeGier. There was also good news to report. A total of 36 babies were born at St. Joseph during the week since wildfires started, which represents about three times the normal delivery rate. "All of those babies are doing very well," said Vicki White, chief nursing officer. Improving weather, the prospect of some light rain later in the week and tightening containment of the flames were tempered by the first death from the firefighting effort a water tender driver, who has since been identified as 38-year-old Garrett Paiz from Missouri, was killed when his truck overturned on a winding mountain road. Paiz, who had been delivering water to the fire lines, crashed before dawn Monday in Napa County on a roadway that climbs from vineyards into the mountains. Those killed in the fires numbered 22 people in Sonoma County, eight in Mendocino County, six in Napa County and four in Yuba County. Of the 1,969 missing persons reports in Sonoma County, a total of 53 people remain missing Tuesday, Sonoma County Sheriff Rob Giordano said. More than 245,000 acres nearly 383 square miles have burned across the Golden State since the firestorm ignited, according to Cal Fire. The Atlas Fire has burned 51,064 acres in Napa and Solano counties and is 77 percent contained; the Tubbs Fire has scorched 36,432 acres in Napa County and is 82 percent contained; the Nuns Fire, which includes the Partrick, Adobe, Norbbom, and Pressley fires, has burned 52,894 acres in Sonoma County and is 68 percent contained; the Pocket Fire has burned 12,430 acres in Sonoma County and is 58 percent contained; and the Oakmont Fire in Sonoma County has charred 1,029 acres and is 16 percent contained, Cal Fire reported Tuesday. Farther north, the Sulphur Fire in Lake County has torched 2,207 acres and is 90 percent contained, and the Redwood Valley Fire in Mendocino County has charred 35,800 acres and is 60 percent contained. In the historic main square of the wine and tourist town of Sonoma, a statue of the community's 19th-century founder was draped with signs thanking firefighters who have saved the town from disaster. "The love in the air is thicker than the smoke," read a sign on the bench that displays the statue of Gen. Mariano Vallejo, which was wearing a face mask. Thick smoke billowing from the fires, however, blanketed the North Bay, sent ash into San Francisco, and affected air quality as far south as San Jose. Many schools were closed during the week to protect children from pollution that has been found comparable to that of Beijing, China. As of Tuesday, more than a week after the fires sparked, air quality was yellow or moderate. People with lung and heart diseases are asked to consider reducing prolonged exertion and outdoor activities. Elsewhere in the state, firefighters on the ground and in the air raced to protect the Mount Wilson Observatory and nearby communications towers from a growing brush fire northeast of Los Angeles. The blaze was initially estimated at around 5 acres. The observatory has been evacuated. Farther north, a fire that sprang up overnight in the mountains of the southern Bay Area blackened at least 125 acres and threatened 150 homes, which prompted evacuation orders. Winds remained light, but conditions were also dry. Crews dropped water on the blaze, which started as a house fire. "The idea is to hit it pretty hard with aircraft and hit it with ground resources at the same time," said Rob Sherman, assistant chief of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Five firefighters suffered minor injuries, including a one who slipped down a ravine. Associated Press writers Ellen Knickmeyer in Sonoma, Brian Skoloff in Napa, Andrew Dalton in Los Angeles, Martha Mendoza in Santa Cruz and Brian Melley, Janie Har and Jocelyn Gecker in San Francisco contributed to this report. A New York City diner waitress stole nearly a half-million dollars from an 84-year-old widow who frequented the restaurant and counted the waitress as a friend, prosecutors say. Alicia P. Legall, 46, of Flatlands, Brooklyn, befriended a regular customer at the local diner where she worked, and from 2012 through 2016, gained access to the woman's personal information, according to prosecutors. "This defendant allegedly took advantage of an elderly and vulnerable widow," said Brooklyn Acting District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. "She spent many years gaining the victim's trust only to betray it." Prosecutors say the elderly woman gave Legall permission to use her credit cards for small purchases at local drugstores and supermarkets -- but Legall allegedly cashed more than 75 checks she wrote to herself or withdrew cash from the victim's bank account for a total of more than $200,000. The waitress also rang up purchases on the victim's credit cards, including $73,000 in cash advances and $204,000 at Apple, JetBlue, Victoria's Secret, New York Racing Authority buffets and bars, Harrah's in Atlantic City, hotels and clubs in Miami and other parts of Florida, and at the Belmont Racetrack. Legall also allegedly opened accounts in the victim's name on horse-betting websites. Legall was arraigned in Brooklyn Supreme Court Tuesday on grand larceny, forgery and identity theft charges. She was ordered held on $2.5 million bail. She's set to return to court on Dec. 6. She faces up to five to 15 years in prison if convicted. Attorney information for the woman wasn't immediately available. The school board in Biloxi, Mississippi, has pulled "To Kill a Mockingbird" from an eighth-grade reading list after receiving complaints about wording in the book, NBC News reported. Last week, Kenny Holloway, the board's vice president, said there was language in the book that "makes people uncomfortable." "We can teach the same lesson with other books," Holloway said, according to the The Sun Herald newspaper. "It's still in our library. But they're going to use another book in the eighth-grade course." The Biloxi School District didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. A Maine man died Sunday after a mountain biking trip on a New Hampshire trail, according to New Hampshire's Fish and Game Department. Authorities said 58-year-old Robert Summa, of North Berwick, had been out riding with friends for several hours on the Sticks and Stones trail in the area of Pudding Pond. According to WCSH-TV, a friend found Summa suffering from a medical emergency and called 911 for help. He then performed CPR until medical personnel arrived. First responders tried to revive Summa, but he was eventually pronounced dead at the scene. A tearful reunion posted on Facebook may have cost seven Massachusetts police officers their deployment to Puerto Rico. The officers - from Chelsea, Easthampton, Hampden and Holyoke - had been helping with security on the hurricane-ravaged island for less than a week. They said they asked permission from Puerto Rican police to check in on the family of a Holyoke officer in southern Puerto Rico and help anyone else they found along the way. They said they rented an SUV and used their own provisions - water, ready-to-eat meals and other supplies. But when they returned to San Juan for their shift the next day, they said they were told to pack their bags and go home. On Friday, Puerto Rican officials had the officers flown from San Juan to Savannah, Georgia at 3 a.m., with no hotel or connecting flight. The Hampden police chief scrambled a private plane to get them home. So what happened? The Massachusetts police chiefs said the officers received approval for their side trip from their on-site Puerto Rican command, but it never made it up the food chain to top brass. In a memo to other departments the chiefs wrote, While we wholeheartedly believe that this is an extremely important humanitarian effort... we are incredibly disappointed in how this situation was handled. They said the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency tried to intervene before the officers were sent home, but island officials did not return their calls or emails. Seven law enforcement officers from Massachusetts, who had previously deployed to Puerto Rico to assist in hurricane recovery operations, have returned to the Commonwealth," MEMA said in a statement. "It is our understanding that there was a miscommunication regarding specific parameters of a humanitarian assignment that the officers were involved with, and as a result, the officers were rotated out of their assignment. MEMA continues to work to support Puerto Rico in their recovery process from the recent devastating hurricanes. The Massachusetts chiefs said they will not be sending any more officers to Puerto Rico and wanted other chiefs to know what happened to their officers. Wednesday, the Department of Public Safety in Puerto Rico issued the following statement in response: "The DSP decided to dispense the services of 7MA officers after information came forth that was corroborated by the DSP. It is not in the interest of the DSP to dwell on the discussion that may damage the relationship and the assistance offered by the 17 Massachusetts officers at this important moment in Puerto Rico. "The DSP is extremely grateful to the 17 Massachusetts officers, 54 New York officers, 98 New Jersey officers, 36 NY and NJ Port Authority officers and 279 federal officers." Experienced Holy Land traveller and former CEO of YMCA Norfolk, John Drake, is leading an inter-church tour from Norwich to Israel and Palestine in March 2023, with a few places still available. Experienced Holy Land traveller and former CEO of YMCA Norfolk, John Drake, is leading an inter-church tour from Norwich to Israel and Palestine in March 2023, with a few places still available. Christmas rhyming play by North Norfolk teacher Matthew Pickhaver, who lives in North Norfolk, has just published the third of his series of play scripts on the theme of Christmas, which is now available to buy. Read more Advent and Christmas events at Norwich Cathedral From an Advent Open Evening to Carols in the Cloister and an array of special services and concerts with Norwich Cathedral Choir, there is lots to look forward to at Norwich Cathedral this festive season. Read more Norwich church to hold Sunday healing service Witard Road Baptist Church is hosting a healing service on November 27 led by Rev Ray and Ruth Scorey from Norfolk Healing Rooms. Read more Sheringham youth attend forbidden church The youth group at Lighthouse Community Church in Sheringham were forced to meet at a secret location earlier this month when the Lighthouse building had, supposedly, been shut down by the authorities. Read more Christmas pud workshop at Norwich church Not made your Christmas pudding yet? Don't know where to start? Come along to a Christmas pudding workshop at Norwich Central Baptist Church on November 21 with MasterChef contestant Jane Wyndham. Read more Norwich Foodbank provides over 4,700 food parcels Norwich Foodbank gave out 4,793 emergency food parcels to people across Norwich in the last year with 1,790 of these going to children. Read more Poppies cascading in Sheringham church A fall of poppies cascades from the pulpit in St Andrews Methodist Church in Sheringham, and anyone is welcome to come and see them. Read more Bishop Graham's prayers for COP27 climate conference Bishop Graham is publishing daily prayers on social media for the current COP27 climate conference, and is asking all to join. Read more Discovering the Orange in your life The vibrant colours of autumn have been inspiring regular contributor Jane Walters to focus on the positive. Read more YMCA annual celebration set to inspire YMCA Norfolk is set to hold its much anticipated 2022 annual celebration and awards ceremony on November 17, after almost 3 years since the last event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more Hub manager vacancy at community shop Earlham Community Shop Community Interest Company is looking to appoint a manager for this new venture being developed in the heart of NR5 Norwich. Read more Abbey Days brings Christmas Magic to Wymondham Visitors to Wymondham Abbeys Christmas fair will be able to treat their children to a magic show and fun baking workshop while they browse more than 60 stalls. Read more Salvation Armys new Christmas Appeal in Norfolk The Salvation Army has launched their new Christmas appeal across Norfolk which, this year, has evolved from the much-loved Toys and Tins appeal. Read more Are we storing up treasures on earth? Rising prices affect us all, and Anna Heydon urges us to spare a thought for those who will be struggling with the cost of living this winter. Read more Latest Norfolk Christian community events Events of interest to the Norwich and Norfolk Christian community happening over the next few weeks are listed. Read more Covid leaf memorial at Norwich church St Peter Mancroft Church Norwich Presents The Leaves of the Trees an installation by sculptor Peter Walker which provides a memorial for those who died of Covid-19 Read more Community Chaplaincy Norfolk begins a new chapter Community Chaplaincy Norfolk (CCN) celebrated the beginning of a new chapter this week, as the new chair of trustees Chris Tomlinson led his first annual meeting. Read more Secret meeting held as council looks to invest tax payers' cash WEST Berkshire councillors held a secret meeting recently to decide whether to invest tax payers cash into a commercial real estate venture. Details of a possible property bid have been withheld from the public as the council, understandably, looks to protect its commercial position. It is known that the local authority is ready to invest as much as 50m overall and as much 12.5m on any single property, having enlisted real estate consultant Montagu Evans to identify potential investment opportunities across the UK. However, the council has refused to divulge even the vaguest of details from the meeting, such as the broad location of the building or whether senior council members have indeed given the go-ahead for the bid. Leader of the Liberal Democrats on West Berkshire Council, Lee Dillon, said he was disappointed with the councils lack of transparency and criticised the decision to hold the entire meeting in part 2 which prevented the press and public from attending. He said: Whilst I appreciate commercial sensitivity, I believe aspects of that report needed to be in part 1. The council need to be as open and transparent with the public as possible, whilst protecting our commercial position. My comments will be going to the panel to be considered and I hope in the future they do it in a more transparent way, whilst still protecting the commercial position of the council. The Newbury Weekly News understands the cash-strapped local authority is potentially looking to invest in commercial buildings, including high street retail outlets, warehouses, supermarkets, petrol stations and student accommodation throughout the UK. The council last year announced its intentions to invest up to 50m in commercial property as it looks at ways of generating new revenue streams following a huge reduction in its grant from the Government. The capital funding for the venture would be borrowed from the Governments Public Works Loan Board (PWLB). However, the council has been criticised for delaying its decision to delve into the commercial property market, with many other local authorities now boasting significant property portfolios. These criticisms were echoed by Newbury-based property consultant Richard Deal, of Deal Varney, who questioned the councils timing, while also warning that such ventures were not a golden ticket to a guaranteed revenue stream. They are coming into it quite late, he said. Why? Only they can answer that question. But now I think prime investments and the better yields may have already been claimed by some of the more aggressive buyers in this market. Mr Deal, who has over four decades of experience in the industry, also said without proper experience and expertise in managing such properties, public investors could end up in trouble if the market changes. He said: They cant just buy these properties and stack them on the shelf and forget about it and collect the income. The risk for West Berkshire Council is they do not have the staff in the property development team to run these developments. One would suggest they would have to use outside resources, which again will be at a cost. By ANI NEW DELHI: Mayim Bialik, who wrote the now infamous op-ed column Being a Feminist in Harvey Weinstein's World, has finally responded to the backlash she has been getting after writing that piece. While writing an op-ed column for a leading U.S. daily, the critics alleged that she blamed victims for their experiences with sexual assault. She took to Twitter and addressed the controversy that has been stirred because of that column. In the post, she thanked everyone for the valuable feedback. She also shared that some people have twisted her words to imply that she would blame a woman for her assault based on her clothing or behavior. Bialik penned a lengthy piece in the wake of the ongoing Weinstein sexual harassment scandal. Describing how she avoided the disturbing encounters fellow peers endured, the former child star touched upon her dress code and mannerisms. Being told my @NYTimes piece resonated w/ so many. Also see some have taken my words out of the context of the Hollywood machine. See below: pic.twitter.com/0NmxtAF1vP Mayim Bialik (@missmayim) October 15, 2017 Actress Patricia Arquette, who recently accused Oliver Stone of harassment, lambasted Bialiks statement on social media. She tweeted, @missmayim I have to say I was dressed non provocatively at 12 walking home from school when men masturbated at me. Its not the clothes. Many more took to their social media accounts to criticize Bialik for her piece, which included actress Gabrille Union and model Emily Ratajkowski. NEW DELHI: Mayim Bialik, who wrote the now infamous op-ed column Being a Feminist in Harvey Weinstein's World, has finally responded to the backlash she has been getting after writing that piece. While writing an op-ed column for a leading U.S. daily, the critics alleged that she blamed victims for their experiences with sexual assault. She took to Twitter and addressed the controversy that has been stirred because of that column. In the post, she thanked everyone for the valuable feedback. She also shared that some people have twisted her words to imply that she would blame a woman for her assault based on her clothing or behavior. Bialik penned a lengthy piece in the wake of the ongoing Weinstein sexual harassment scandal. Describing how she avoided the disturbing encounters fellow peers endured, the former child star touched upon her dress code and mannerisms. Being told my @NYTimes piece resonated w/ so many. Also see some have taken my words out of the context of the Hollywood machine. See below: pic.twitter.com/0NmxtAF1vP Mayim Bialik (@missmayim) October 15, 2017 Actress Patricia Arquette, who recently accused Oliver Stone of harassment, lambasted Bialiks statement on social media. She tweeted, @missmayim I have to say I was dressed non provocatively at 12 walking home from school when men masturbated at me. Its not the clothes. Many more took to their social media accounts to criticize Bialik for her piece, which included actress Gabrille Union and model Emily Ratajkowski. By Online Desk BJP national general secretary Saroj Pandey on Sunday sparked outrage with her comments that if the killing of her party members continued in Kerala, the eyes of the attackers will be gouged out. The violent remark has been flayed as well as ridiculed by Malayalees on social media, but an actor has gone beyond just symbolic protests and filed a police complaint against Pandey. Alencier Lopez, famous for his roles in films like Maheshinte Prathikaaram, Njan Steve Lopez, Kammattipaadam and Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum, filed a complaint against Saroj Pandey at Chavara Police station in Kollam, Kerala. Appearing blindfolded at the police station as a mark of protest against the BJP leaders comments, Alencier Lopez got his complaint registered, seeking action. Saroj Pandeys comments came in the backdrop of the janaraksha yatra organised by the BJP in Kerala to highlight the killing of RSS workers in Kerala. The CPM, the main constituent of the ruling coalition in Kerala, has lost cadres to violence inflicted by RSS members. BJPs janaraksha yatra, which sought to highlight topics like Love Jihad and left terror that the party claims are issues in Kerala, backfired as Malayalees began trolling party president Amit Shah with the #Amittadi hashtag. #Amittadi, new word added to Malayalam troll vocabulary, after #kummanadi. It means to chicken out of commitments. Via @FanVarma.+ pratheesh (@pratheesh) October 5, 2017 Similarly Pandeys gouge remark resulted in social media retaliation from Malayalaees in the form of the #GougeDa hashtag. The hashtag has been trending on Twitter and has created a storm. If u have eyes, u will see Scams. If you can see, you'll ask questions. NaMo hates questions. Gouging out the eyes is only option #Gougeda pic.twitter.com/vTXX8sTvNJ ..! (@tittoantony) October 17, 2017 #BJP wants to gouge the eyes of #CPIM workers in #Kerala. Meanwhile CPIM workers: #Gougeda bleddy saffrom chaddiwalas, I dare you pic.twitter.com/5V5R0oouXz Arya Prakash (@aryaprakash) October 16, 2017 I'm a Bengali, not from Kerala, and I wear glasses, but what the hell. #Gougeda pic.twitter.com/Q2N37wGdC1 Anirban Banerjee (@anirban_82) October 17, 2017 Alencier Lopez, who was a theatre actor for years before moving to the film industry, has gone for a dramatic public protest in an earlier instance too, taking a stand against what are seen as the right-wings attempts to polarise Kerala. When Malayalam filmmaker Kamal took a stand against the arrest of those who did not stand up for the national anthem during the International Film Festival of Kerala, of which he was one of the organisers, he was trolled by the right-wing brigade who asked him to Go to Pakistan. Lopez, at the time, expressed his protest by going to the Kasargod bus stand and asking passengers their tickets to Pakistan. BJP national general secretary Saroj Pandey on Sunday sparked outrage with her comments that if the killing of her party members continued in Kerala, the eyes of the attackers will be gouged out. The violent remark has been flayed as well as ridiculed by Malayalees on social media, but an actor has gone beyond just symbolic protests and filed a police complaint against Pandey. Alencier Lopez, famous for his roles in films like Maheshinte Prathikaaram, Njan Steve Lopez, Kammattipaadam and Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum, filed a complaint against Saroj Pandey at Chavara Police station in Kollam, Kerala. Appearing blindfolded at the police station as a mark of protest against the BJP leaders comments, Alencier Lopez got his complaint registered, seeking action. Saroj Pandeys comments came in the backdrop of the janaraksha yatra organised by the BJP in Kerala to highlight the killing of RSS workers in Kerala. The CPM, the main constituent of the ruling coalition in Kerala, has lost cadres to violence inflicted by RSS members. BJPs janaraksha yatra, which sought to highlight topics like Love Jihad and left terror that the party claims are issues in Kerala, backfired as Malayalees began trolling party president Amit Shah with the #Amittadi hashtag. #Amittadi, new word added to Malayalam troll vocabulary, after #kummanadi. It means to chicken out of commitments. Via @FanVarma.+ pratheesh (@pratheesh) October 5, 2017 Amittadi.... pic.twitter.com/5CW8p5jCfW (@vinayannn) October 7, 2017 Similarly Pandeys gouge remark resulted in social media retaliation from Malayalaees in the form of the #GougeDa hashtag. The hashtag has been trending on Twitter and has created a storm. #GougeDa pic.twitter.com/lVlJhpaQBx sandeep (@sandutk) October 17, 2017 If u have eyes, u will see Scams. If you can see, you'll ask questions. NaMo hates questions. Gouging out the eyes is only option #Gougeda pic.twitter.com/vTXX8sTvNJ ..! (@tittoantony) October 17, 2017 #BJP wants to gouge the eyes of #CPIM workers in #Kerala. Meanwhile CPIM workers: #Gougeda bleddy saffrom chaddiwalas, I dare you pic.twitter.com/5V5R0oouXz Arya Prakash (@aryaprakash) October 16, 2017 I'm a Bengali, not from Kerala, and I wear glasses, but what the hell. #Gougeda pic.twitter.com/Q2N37wGdC1 Anirban Banerjee (@anirban_82) October 17, 2017 Alencier Lopez, who was a theatre actor for years before moving to the film industry, has gone for a dramatic public protest in an earlier instance too, taking a stand against what are seen as the right-wings attempts to polarise Kerala. When Malayalam filmmaker Kamal took a stand against the arrest of those who did not stand up for the national anthem during the International Film Festival of Kerala, of which he was one of the organisers, he was trolled by the right-wing brigade who asked him to Go to Pakistan. Lopez, at the time, expressed his protest by going to the Kasargod bus stand and asking passengers their tickets to Pakistan. By Online Desk OTTAWA: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau celebrated the Hindu festival of lights Diwali with the Indian community in Ottawa on Monday. Attired in a black Sherwani, Trudeau lit the ceremonial lamp and wished the Indian Diaspora a happy Diwali. Indian High Commissioner to Canada Vikas Swarup was also present on the occasion. Diwali Mubarak! We're celebrating in Ottawa tonight. #HappyDiwali!, Trudeau tweeted. The light-hearted gesture by the Canadian PM got twitterati trolling him for using the word 'mubarak' instead of 'shubh' or 'Happy'. What followed was a thread of tweets from people arguing about the origin of words like 'Hindu' and 'Mubarak' and whether they are Arabic or Urdu. Mr Trudeau. Please don't disrespect Hindus. We would love to celebrate our most sacred festival without your Arabic "Diwali Wishes". Ashish (@Ak_Ashii) October 17, 2017 that's arabic, justin. but we'll let it pass because we love you oneli (@OnieXOX) October 17, 2017 Word to the wise : It's "Shubh-Deepavali", (Auspicious Deepavali), and NOT "Diwali Mubarak". "Mubarak" is Arabic, not Indian. @CanadainIndia Truthsayer (@a_truthsayer) October 17, 2017 Justin .. are you a Muslim, It's Shubh Diwali. Do I now say Christmas Mubbarak to you ? Or what ? Mr Frump (@whatthefrump) October 17, 2017 However, there were some people who appreciated the gesture and wished Trudeau, cutting some slack for him. @JustinTrudeau Happy/Shubh Diwali to you too. Please excuse all the people getting offended by the word Mubarak. They are jobless. Faisal Gulam Nabi (@faisalgnb) October 17, 2017 Deepavali ki shubhkamnaayein! Wishing you a happy Deepavali! Neeraja Rawat Sheth (@NeerajaSheth) October 17, 2017 Last month, Canada Post and India Post had jointly issued two stamps to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Known for embracing cultural and religious diversity, Prime Minister Trudeau had also recently celebrated and greeted the Muslim population in his country on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr in June this year. (With inputs from ANI) OTTAWA: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau celebrated the Hindu festival of lights Diwali with the Indian community in Ottawa on Monday. Attired in a black Sherwani, Trudeau lit the ceremonial lamp and wished the Indian Diaspora a happy Diwali. Indian High Commissioner to Canada Vikas Swarup was also present on the occasion. Diwali Mubarak! We're celebrating in Ottawa tonight. #HappyDiwali!, Trudeau tweeted. Diwali Mubarak! We're celebrating in Ottawa tonight. #HappyDiwali! pic.twitter.com/HBFlQUBhWX Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) October 17, 2017 The light-hearted gesture by the Canadian PM got twitterati trolling him for using the word 'mubarak' instead of 'shubh' or 'Happy'. What followed was a thread of tweets from people arguing about the origin of words like 'Hindu' and 'Mubarak' and whether they are Arabic or Urdu. Mr Trudeau. Please don't disrespect Hindus. We would love to celebrate our most sacred festival without your Arabic "Diwali Wishes". Ashish (@Ak_Ashii) October 17, 2017 that's arabic, justin. but we'll let it pass because we love you oneli (@OnieXOX) October 17, 2017 Word to the wise : It's "Shubh-Deepavali", (Auspicious Deepavali), and NOT "Diwali Mubarak". "Mubarak" is Arabic, not Indian. @CanadainIndia Truthsayer (@a_truthsayer) October 17, 2017 Justin .. are you a Muslim, It's Shubh Diwali. Do I now say Christmas Mubbarak to you ? Or what ? Mr Frump (@whatthefrump) October 17, 2017 However, there were some people who appreciated the gesture and wished Trudeau, cutting some slack for him. @JustinTrudeau Happy/Shubh Diwali to you too. Please excuse all the people getting offended by the word Mubarak. They are jobless. Faisal Gulam Nabi (@faisalgnb) October 17, 2017 Deepavali ki shubhkamnaayein! Wishing you a happy Deepavali! Neeraja Rawat Sheth (@NeerajaSheth) October 17, 2017 Last month, Canada Post and India Post had jointly issued two stamps to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Known for embracing cultural and religious diversity, Prime Minister Trudeau had also recently celebrated and greeted the Muslim population in his country on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr in June this year. (With inputs from ANI) Newport, Portsmouth eye lower electricity bills with new program The new programs, set to launch in May 2023, are the culmination of a multi-year effort involving six Rhode Island communities. Reporter Debra Pressey is a reporter covering health care at The News-Gazette. Her email is dpressey@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@DLPressey). American cult bike manufacturer Harley-Davidson plans to open its skills centre, which it calls the 'Harley-Davidson University', in India to train its employees and dealership staff. Apart from technical training, the Harley-Davidson University also offers a variety of courses ranging from management to finance and branding. Currently, the US-based firm has three such universities in the Asia Pacific region. It is planning to open the fourth here at the national capital. "We will continue to invest in people and resources here (India). An example of that is Harley-Davidson University which we are going to open here in Delhi in next few weeks," Harley-Davidson India and China MD Peter MacKenzie told PTI. The upcoming entity would offer both technical and non- technical training to its employees and dealership staff from across the country, he added. "Our university caters only to the Harley-Davidson community," MacKenzie said. When asked what kind of education would be offered at the university, he said: "There would be a technical course. Also, a variety of courses ranging from management to finance and branding would be offered as part of the non-technical training." MacKenzie, however, did not share details of the number of faculty or people that will be employed at the institute. Harley-Davidson has been present in India since 2009, selling a range of models, including Street 750 and Street Rod. Its current portfolio comprises 14 models which are retailed from 27 dealerships. Commenting on the company's long-term strategy for India, MacKenzie said the iconic bike maker wishes to be "more accessible and more relevant" in the market here. With an aim to widen its reach, MacKenzie said the company is expanding its dealer presence here. "Besides we continue to bring great products to enable both current and future customers to remain engaged with the brand," he said. He added that the Harley-Davidson brand continues to grow in India and as part of the future strategy the company is also focusing at non-urban areas to bring in more customers. The bike maker has come up with various initiatives to achieve its goal to connect with prospective customers even in remote areas. "Quite often there is a large distance between the dealerships so we have a mobile truck which is basically a mobile store which we can take to remote locations and engage people to interact with the brand. We started doing it last year and continue to do this year as well," MacKenzie said. The company also encourages its dealers to move to areas where there is no brand representation and do things like pop up stores, engage people and gauge their interest, he said. Also Watch: 2017 Harley Davidson H.O.G Rally Experience | Cars18 Paris: Airbus will take a majority stake in Bombardier's marquee C-Series airliner programme, the companies announced, as the Canadian firm battled against a stiff tariff ruling in the US. The landmark agreement comes after the US administration slapped a 220 percent countervailing duty, as well as an 80 percent anti-dumping tax, on Bombardier CS100 and CS300 aircraft imported into the US. Boeing accuses Bombardier of manufacturing its 100-150 seat planes with public subsidies and selling them at a loss to Delta Air Lines. The agreement between Airbus and Bombardier aims to allow for significant production savings on the C-Series aircraft and to make use of Airbus's international reach for sales, the two groups said in a statement. "It's a win-win deal for everyone," said the president of Airbus, Tom Enders. "I have no doubt that our partnership with Bombardier will boost sales and the value of this program enormously." The programme's production headquarters will remain in Quebec. Airbus will take approximately 50.01 percent of the shares in CSALP, the entity which manages the C-Series program, with Bombardier and Investissement Quebec holding 31 and 19 per cent respectively. "We are very happy to welcome Airbus to the C-Series program," Bombardier's CEO Alain Bellemare said. "Airbus is the perfect partner for us, Quebec, and Canada," he added. A deal between the two companies had been mooted previously but discussions stalled two years ago and the project was abandoned. The C-Series is a state-of-the-art aircraft largely built from composite materials. It complements Airbus' medium-range carrier, the A320, which can carry some 140 passengers. "The single aisle market is a key growth driver, representing 70 percent of the expected global future demand for aircraft," according to a statement from Bombardier. "Ranging from 100 to 150 seats, the C Series is highly complementary to Airbus' existing single aisle aircraft portfolio, which focuses on the higher end of the single-aisle business (150-240 seats)." The US aerospace firm Boeing, claiming its competitor received unfair state subsidies, successfully petitioned the Trump administration to impose financial penalties on Bombardier to keep it from selling its C-Series planes in the massive US market. In turn, Canada has voiced interest officially in some Australian military aircraft and called off discussions with Boeing on a possible purchase of 18 new Super Hornets. It intends to renew its fighter jets and is set to seek offers in 2019. Bombardier's C-Series is the first new design in the 100-to 150-seat category in more than 25 years, and US-based Delta Airlines has ordered 75 of them. In the complaint to the US Commerce Department that led to massive anti-dumping duties being imposed on Bombardier, Boeing accused its rival of unfairly benefiting from state subsidies that allowed it to sell C-Series aircraft at below cost to Delta Air Lines. During a conference call for the airline's third quarter results, Delta chief executive Ed Bastian said the duties imposed on the C-Series were "nonsensical," and vowed not to pay the additional tariffs. The trade row escalated to include rebukes from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who vowed to retaliate by nixing plans to buy 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from Boeing, and Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who is worried for 4,200 C-Series wing assembly jobs in Northern Ireland. Bombardier, meanwhile, has noted that the C-Series rollout would generate more than USD30 billion for US suppliers and support 22,700 American jobs. New Delhi: Dhanteras may finally start looking rosy again. Jewellery sales, which were subdued, have started to pick up in the last 2-3 days as customers start spending on gold, silver and other jewellery. Jewellers are cautiously optimistic about the trend continuing. The last 2 days have seen a pickup in the sales of gold jewellery, Nitin Khandelwal, Chairman of the All India Gems & Jewellery Trade Federation, told News18. Before that it was the worst period. Sentiment was down and sales were very bad, he added. Dhanteras, which falls 2 days before Diwali, is considered an auspicious day to purchase jewellery, especially gold. However the day, which marks the 13th day in the month of Kartik, is the culmination of a consumer spending cycle that starts before Dussera and continues till Diwali and beyond. However, spending has been subdued this year for a number of reasons. The foremost among these is that sales have been depressed this festive season. The twin shocks of Demonetisation and GST have had the effect of suppressing purchasing power. Many traders, small business owners and other segments do not have the disposable income to spend on gold or other jewellery, Bachhraj Bamalwa, a partner at one of Kolkatas premium jewellers Nemichand Bamalwa & Sons, told News18. Ultimately sales are driven by sentiments, Bamalwa, the former Chairman of the Gems & Jewellery Trade Federation, added. The second factor that has depressed sales has a more direct link to GST. The GST rate for gold articles and polished diamonds has been fixed at 3% and 0.25% for rough diamonds. This is marginally higher than the 2% rate before GST. Although the increase in the tax rate does not seem very much, it does end up hurting the consumers wallet because prices of gold are high: 10 grams of the yellow metal will set you back by Rs 29, 250, so even a 1 percentage point increase in tax makes a difference. A lot of consumers pre-poned their gold purchases to June, before GST came in, to avoid paying a higher rate, Khandelwal said. In effect, the Dhanteras demand for jewellery got shifted to forward and therefore the demand is weak now, Bamalwa added. However, with sales picking up and the wedding season round the corner, both jewellers are hopeful that the sector will make some kind of recovery. The third reason has to do with the government placing the gem and jewellery sector under the ambit of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in August. In August, the Central directed dealers in precious metals and stones having an annual turnover of Rs 2 crore to be notified as persons carrying on designated business under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, (PMLA) 2002. Transactions over Rs 50,000 attracted stringent know your customer (KYC) norms and the identity of the customer had to be verified. Other compliance norms had to be followed, which acted as a drag on jewellery sales. The sector was taken out of the ambit of the Act only in the second week of October, but the damage had already been done. However, on the bright side, gold imports are slightly higher this year. Around 700 tons of the yellow metal has been imported from April-September compared to 650 tons in the year ago period, which jewellers see as a positive sign. They are hoping that Lakshmi finally comes to their homes and shops this season. New York/New Delhi: India is set to emerge as a key market for American crude exports in coming months, as refineries in that country are ramping up "test" purchases of US grades to diversify their imports. US exports recently set a weekly record with nearly 2 million barrels of crude a day sent overseas. But shipments to India have been rare, with just a few deliveries since the US lifted its ban on crude exports in late 2015. Indian refineries are starting to increase purchases as the country seeks to secure more supply from outside the Middle East. Refiners are testing both US sweet and sour crudes in their facilities, a common practice when importing crude from new sources. A lot of these (Indian refiners) want to see what its like if they run it," said one Houston-based oil broker. "They want to get a taste of US crude." Those refiners are taking advantage of a wide spread between US oil and other global benchmarks, which has created an attractive discount on American crude grades. Foreign refiners, including those in India, have bid up those physical grades against the US crude benchmark to multi-year highs, traders and brokers said. That includes onshore grades from the Permian Basin in West Texas and the Eagle Ford further east, as well as offshore US Gulf grades including Mars Sour and Southern Green Canyon. In June, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump met and discussed energy exports to India. Since then the Modi administration has been encouraging more crude imports by waiving some shipping requirements. Indian refiners Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum Corp and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited were given a special permission by the shipping ministry to import oil from the United States until March. "They've been stepping up to be a sizeable importer; they're looking to diversify away from the Middle East," said John Kilduff, partner at energy hedge fund Again Capital LLC in New York. The executive of India's state-owned Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd said in August the company was assessing whether US crude could replace Nigerian barrels; it made its first buy of US oil in September. One supertanker carrying nearly 2 million barrels discharged in India earlier this month, according to Eikon shipping data, while two other vessels carrying a combined 3 million barrels are set to arrive in November. Prior to this, US crude rarely went to India, with only one month this year - February - showing deliveries, according to US EIA data through July. In August, IOC bought 950,000 barrels of light sweet Eagle Ford shale oil and 950,000 barrels of heavy sour Mars crude for end-October delivery from trading firm Trafigura. In October the company bought 1 million barrels each of US Southern Green Canyon (SGC) and WTI Midland crude. In October, India's Reliance Industries Ltd, the world's largest refining complex, purchased 1 million barrels of Midland and a similar-sized cargo of Eagle Ford crude for November delivery. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who never fails to seize any opportunity to celebrate different cultures, festivals, religions, and customs took to the microblogging site Twitter on Tuesday to wish people a Happy Diwali. Dressed in a black sherwani, Trudeau posted a photo of himself lighting the traditional Indian lamp during celebrations in Canada's capital Ottawa. Trudeau known for his commitment to cultural diversity in Canada wrote, "Diwali Mubarak! We're celebrating in Ottawa tonight. #HappyDiwali!" However, social media wasn't very pleased with the choice of words used by the PM. Many were quick to correct the PM while some asked him to rectify his wish. Word to the wise : It's "Shubh-Deepavali", (Auspicious Deepavali), and NOT "Diwali Mubarak". "Mubarak" is Arabic, not Indian. @CanadainIndia Truthsayer (@a_truthsayer) October 17, 2017 PM Justin, thanks for the Deepavali Greetings. Confirm w. @CanadainIndia, please amend your tweet. Nobody, but nobody, says "Diwali Mubarak" Truthsayer (@a_truthsayer) October 17, 2017 It's not "Diwali Mubarak", it's "Diwali Ki Badhai" ... Correct it .. Bhavesh K Pandey (@bhaveshkpandey) October 17, 2017 My man you cant say Mubarak when referring to Diwali Bhavana (@BhavanaNTR) October 17, 2017 Eid Mubarak not Diwali Mubarak, wish only Happy Diwali, stop getting coaching from Pakistani about Hindu festivals. anjani choubey (@anjmb) October 17, 2017 its not mubarak its shubh anup penurkar (@anup_penurkar) October 17, 2017 Mubarak is Arabic, not hindi. Jussayin. HHaltam (@haltam_h) October 17, 2017 Thank you, Mr.PM. Its good to hear from a global icon. But it's either 'subh deewali' (Hindhi) or deepavali Vazhthukal(Tamil). Abinayah Raguraam (@AbinayahR) October 17, 2017 Sorry PM it is not Mubarak after Diwali .. It is a Hindu festival.. To simplify d language issue use English. 'Diwali Greetings' will do.. Ar. Kr. (@vgar_) October 17, 2017 When did Justin Trudeau converted to Islam ,He has started appropriating Diwali as a Islamic Festival? Mission350+ 2019 (@BabrooWahen) October 17, 2017 While some were considerate enough to appreciate Trudeau's gesture. "I have never heard the term Mubarak used in this way...we always say Shub Diwali...anyways it's always amazing to see how our PM tries to connect with the people in every way possible," wrote one user. "Mubarak is an Arabic term. Pretty sure its not used in the context of Diwali! Happy Diwali anyway," wrote another user. Sir you like like Indian prince ! Happy Diwali to all Canadians I wish this Diwali brings all prosperity and well health to Canada ! Deepak Goyal (@deepakgoyal2201) October 17, 2017 that's arabic, justin. but we'll let it pass because we love you oneli (@OnieXOX) October 17, 2017 Happy deepavali sir... God bless u all with happiness and good health. Jyothi. jyothi B Lingaiah (@Jyothi30101982) October 17, 2017 Trudeau also posted the wish on his Facebook account. Justin Trudeau who is known to celebrate different communities and festivals in Canada and often wishes them in their regional languages celebrated Baisakhi, Pongal, and Eid earlier this year. Ranchi: An 11-year-old girl died of starvation in Jharkhands Simdega after the local PDS (Public Distribution System) shop refused to provide her family with any food as their ration card was not linked to the Aadhaar number. Santoshi Kumari breathed her last on September 28 but the incident went largely unreported until an NGO raised the issue. Kumaris family lives in abject poverty and was fully dependent on food grains entitled under the National Food Security Act. Her father is mentally disabled and her sister and mother, who are daily wage workers, earn about Rs 80-90 a day. Talking to News18, Santoshis mother Koyali Devi said, The PDS shop struck out names from the ration list. They were asking for our Aadhaar number, which we did not have. Santoshi was studying at a local school, where she used to get cooked lunch under the mid-day meal scheme but due to Durga Puja the school was closed. The NGO, which raised the issue, said that the child spent eight days without eating anything before her death. Some locals contacted the Jaldega block officer for the familys ration card to be renewed and it did reach them but only by October 1. State Food and Civil Supplies minister Saryu Rai told News18 there were clear instructions that no one should be denied ration for not linking PDS card with Aadhaar. On Tuesday, Chief Minister Raghubar Das expressed his grief over the incident and vowed to not spare anyone found responsible. He also directed the Deputy Commissioner to meet the victims family and submit a report within 24 hours. New Delhi: In an apparent reference to BJP MLA Sangeet Soms comments that the Taj Mahal was a blot on Indian culture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said no country can move ahead without pride in heritage. Nations cannot develop if they dont take pride in their history and heritage. If they do, they are sure to lose their identity over a period of time, said PM Modi while dedicating the first ever All India Institute of Ayurveda to the nation. BJP MLA Sangeet Som has called the Taj Mahal "a blot on Indian culture" and a monument "built by traitors", prompting the Uttar Pradesh government to clarify it's part of "our proud heritage". Also, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in an apparent face-saving attempt, would be visiting the Taj Mahal on October 26. Sources said, the CM spoke to Sangeet Som, seeking an explanation for his statement calling the Taj Mahal a blot on Indian culture. "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from UP tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? The creator of Taj Mahal (Shahjahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out Hindus. If these people are part of our history, then it is very sad and we will change this history," Som had said on Monday. Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday ordered a stay on the withdrawal of paramilitary forces from Darjeeling and other part of the Hills. A bench of justices Harish Tandon and Debangsu Basak, hearing the West Bengal governments plea, ordered the home ministry not to move a single company of paramilitary forces out of Darjeeling till the next hearing on October 27. The Centre has been asked to file an affidavit before the High Court on October 23 and the state government will file a counter on October 26. On Monday, the home ministry had passed an order for withdrawal of 1,000 paramilitary personnel, including 300 women, deployed in Darjeeling to maintain law and order. Miffed with the decision, Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had called it Centres ploy to maintain unrest in the hills. Darjeeling has been besieged by unrest since June this year. We all want peace and normalcy to be restored in Darjeeling. But the Centre unilaterally decided to withdraw central forces from Darjeeling, without even informing the State. We were not consulted. This is unfortunate and shocking, she said. There were 11 companies in Darjeeling earlier; after the order of honourable Calcutta High Court, they sent 4 more. Out of these, 7 companies are being withdrawn. This is a violation of the courts order. This decision is bad both politically as well as administratively. We must extend all cooperation to the people of the Hills. BJP is stoking tension in Darjeeling. Does the Centre not want normalcy to be restored in the Hills? she asked. Calling it a bad decision both politically and administratively, Mamata said she has sent strongly worded letters to both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and home minister Rajnath Singh protesting this move. I hope they would intervene and stop this from happening, she said. New Delhi: Over 250 policemen, including those who were supposed to give a guard of honour to Union home minister Rajnath Singh, didn't show up on duty in Rajasthan on Monday. The police force went on a mass leave voluntarily after a rumour spread on WhatsApp that a government order would reduce their pay scale. Ashok Rathod, the Jodhpur police commissioner, said that policemen went on the leave on their own. "It was not a sanctioned leave. They absented themselves from duty... some of them were part of the guard of honour, but they refused to report for duty. We had to replace them with other policemen." The commissioner said that the issue was serious in nature, adding that action will be taken against those guilty. The WhatsApp message that went viral said that the new order would reduce policemen's pay scale from the existing Rs 24,000 to Rs 19,000. Gulab Chand Kataria, home minister Rajasthan, said that government hadn't ordered any reduction in the pay scale of any government employee. "A proposal to the effect is with the cabinet, but no employee should believe in these rumors," he said. Rajasthan DGP Ajit Singh said any indiscipline would not be condoned. "There are rumours pertaining to salary cut issue. We have provided our view to the government. People should not act in a way that hurt the dignity of profession." The DGP, later, wrote a letter, clearing the air on the rumour. Rajnath inaugurated a regional training centre of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) in Jodhpur on Monday. Singh inaugurated the centre for the Western Zone at Bhadwasiya. During his short visit, officials briefed him about the programmes carried out at such centres. The Union minister was welcomed at the Jodhpur airport by BJP leaders and Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. New Delhi: In open defiance of the Supreme Courts ban on firecrackers, a fringe Hindu outfit burst crackers outside the apex courts premises in Delhi on Tuesday evening. Fouteen people, including three women, have been detained by the police and were taken to the Tilak Marg police station. The members, who claimed to be from an outfit called the Azad Hind Fauj, were led by a man named Satpal Malhotra, police said. The group took refuge in the fact that the court had banned the sale of firecrackers and not bursting them. They, however, ignored the intention behind the ban - to control Delhis worsening air pollution. This came just hours after Delhi BJP spokesperson Tajinder Bagga distributed sacks full crackers to slum kids in Hari Nagar area of west Delhi. Bagga tweeted photos and a video of him giving out firecrackers to the children, but claimed that just distribution did not amount to contempt of court. Distributing crackers to Kids in Hari Nagar pic.twitter.com/a2CqIXjN2d Tajinder Bagga (@TajinderBagga) October 17, 2017 Delhi Polices public relations officer Madhur Verma said police will not take any action against Bagga as distributing crackers as a gift is not a crime. Talking to media persons, Bagga asked why restrictions on crackers have been placed just around Diwali. By banning them ahead of Diwali, you are just targeting a Hindu festival. The ban should be implemented around the year, he said. The SC had last week banned the sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR till November 1 to prevent the formation of a toxic haze over the capital like last year. We should see at least in one Diwali the impact of a cracker-free festivity, the court had said. Many have, however, denounced the verdict on the grounds that it encroaches upon their religion. Among those criticising the verdict was Tripura governor Tathagata Roy, who said that Hindu cremations could be the next tradition on the chopping block after Diwali. Calling for a balanced view, RSS Sarkaryawah Bhaiyyaji Joshi feared that next, someone might have a problem with diyas as well. Author Chetan Bhagat, who said the ban on firecrackers was akin to banning Christmas trees on Christmas and slaughter of goats on Bakri-Eid. He said those wanting to reform festivals like Diwali should "show the same passion in reforming other festivals full of blood and gore." New Delhi: In a country as densely populated as India, and infamous for 27 million pending court cases, a strange new shift can be observed inside courtrooms people fighting their cases themselves. A country where to initially file a case one has to shell out anything between Rs 20,000 to a few lakhs, many Indians are choosing this less expensive alternative. Going by the visible trend, apart from financial considerations, the decision to fight a case by oneself is also a result of dissatisfaction with ones lawyer. People are going off the conventional route and are reading up books to represent the matter themselves, rather than being pulled down by the complex legal hierarchy. News18 tracked down four individuals who not only fought their own cases but also overcame seemingly insurmountable hurdles. VISION OF JUSTICE Mahatma Gandhi once said, A man is not a product of this thoughts. What he thinks he becomes. Perhaps this quote could not have been more applicable than in the case of a young 28-year-old man who, though being a hundred percent blind, went all guns blazing to take down not only a powerful government servant but to secure the rights of hundreds of disabled children. This is the story of Sanyas Kumar Behera. His tryst with law started in 2001. Behera was working with Disabled people grievance cell in collaboration with District Administration of Bhadrak, an area which was prone to communal riots. Sanyas Kumar Behera did not have the funds to hire a lawyer, neither could he find one with an understanding of his case. (Image: News18) In 2001, teachers of a school of disabled children informed me about case where disabled children were studying under a tree without sanitation or other facilities. This school was the only school for special children in the state. However, a retired inspector of supply became the secretary of the school and threatened the principal of the school, and took certain signatures on blank papers. He diverted the entire fund from the central government grant to his name. Later he even refused to let his house for the school which too was on rent from the government, Behera told News18. It was not that Behera did not think of hiring lawyers. But neither did he have funds to engage a lawyer nor did he find ones that could understand the case. By that time the legislation for the disabled people known as the Disabilities Act had not passed. So there was also no state rule under the PWD act. The court and administration were oblivious about the provisions of the act. I took a few children and went to the High Court. Then I did not know how to write a PIL petition and with a help of a friend I drafted the PIL and then presented it along with a few children as witnesses, said Behera. He still remembers the first time he entered the court in January 2001, not only he had to face all senior lawyers appearing for the Secretary but his disability too made him nervous. But with the help of his 25-year-old wife who acted as his reader, he won the case. He also ensured that the school for special children - Binapani Helen Keller School - now runs under an NGO owned by the former Chief Minister of Odisha, Nandini Satpathy. Behera, a graduate in public administration with no law degree has argued over 200 cases. He feels that two severe problems plague our Indian courts, first, "disability is a rare matter in court. So most of the lawyers are not aware of the disability legislation prevailing in the country. The cases in relation to discrimination against disabled people rarely come to court," and the next being, "lawyers first want to protect their face value, that is their profession," which often leaves a client helpless for just. ABUSED, SUPPRESSED BUT WINNER When News18 caught up with this advocate who is now in her early thirties, she seemed confident and seemed to betray nothing that could show her past bruises that drew her towards the legal profession in the first place. Aanchal Gupta hailing from Pune got married in 2006 to a business family in Nashik. She had her son in 2007 and the first few initial years went without problems. But as years passed by, her husband's drug and alcohol addiction increased and so did the regular abuse and physical violence. There came a point when he even started having sexual relations outside the marriage. If I objected to anything then I used to be beaten up. I was extremely scared because this had happened to me for the first time," Gupta told News18. The only answer she received was that being a woman, she should keep shut. Matters worsened to an extreme in 2012 when after a round of extreme physical violence, Gupta thought she has had enough. What followed was a police complaint, where she was asked to patch up and soon she made her way back home to Pune. And then, being cheated by a lawyer, she realised that there is no one better to fight her case than she herself. My father and I hired a lawyer but he cheated me. He charged us Rs 25,000 to file a custody case and after sometime tried telling us to find another lawyer as it was becoming difficult for him. We met our husband too and he was unwilling to take me back and I wanted my child. Hence I filed a case of custody before the family court in Pune and fought my own case, said Gupta. Aanchal Gupta was cheated by a lawyer, when she decided to fight her own case. (Image: News18) A case of custody was also filed at a Nashik court where Gupta's husband stated that he had the financial prowess to bring up a child unlike his wife. What shocked Gupta was that even the female judge agreed with her husband and asked her to give the child to her husband. I realised this entire system is messed up. For the case in Pune, with help of a law professor, she not only drafted the documents but also had to hunted for evidences to prove how her husband, who had once claimed to be a rich man in Nashik, took the defence of being a humble cloth shop owner when maintenance was sought. In Pune, my husband said he is a cloth shop owner as soon as the question of maintenance arose. I used the internet to find out all about his business and proved in the court that he was wealthy and on that basis I won my maintenance case. The court awarded me a paltry Rs 5,000 a month, but even then that gave me the confidence to move on in life, said Gupta. She not only had to struggle with legal technicalities but also with court etiquette and formalities. Soon she enrolled herself in a local law college and now after having practiced for a couple of years, she feels women empowerment as a concept lies only in books. Now when I look back I realise women empowerment is a concept only in books. We struggle every day and if it's an arena where we have not ventured before, we are always suppressed. But now the journey has just begun, says the lawyer who now fights cases for abused women. FIGHT TO BREAK THE CASTE DIVIDE A septuagenarian, Baghamber Pattnaik, was 61 when he fought his first case. A teacher at a high school in Puri district of Odisha, Pattnaik not only fought against an age-old caste practice but also got jailed for it. The barbers in Pattnaik's area were always at the mercy of the upper caste Brahmins. As per tradition, they used to wash the feet the feet of the upper caste during the time of marriages. They also washed their clothes in lieu of 15 kg of paddy once a year. Apart from this, eating the leftovers of the Brahmins was a regular fare. In early 2000, the barber community said they would do everything but wash the feet of Brahmins. Soon the barbers were socially boycotted, humiliated, and physically assaulted. When the police refused to register a case and the collector too turned a blind eye, the barbers sat on dharna outside collectors office for 270 days continuously. It was then that Pattnaik participated in the dharna and decided to seek justice for the deprived community. Baghamber Pattnaik was 61 when he fought his first case. (Image: News18) I was arrested and I refused to leave on bail. I spent over 100 days in jail. The Additional District Magistrate came to meet me in jail. I said I will not leave on bail, said Pattnaik. Soon he approached the National Human Rights Commission. It was not that he planned to pursue the case in person but after being advised by the Senior Advocate, Colin Gonsalves, he decided to fight it on his own. This was a case of bonded labour. The lawyers were so unaware of these issues and it's very rare that advocates use law to help people like these. I was passionately involved in the cause, hence I took up the matter. NHRC called the Panchayat Raj Secretary and the collector around four times in 2008, and then an NHRC full bench ruled that this custom was a violation of human rights, said the crusader for justice. Pattnaik had to spend sleepless nights in his local school where he started reading law books and court judgments to bolster his case. Although he was helped by his lawyer friends, facing the bench and submitting the points of law was indeed very difficult, but I had to manage it. There was no other option, said Pattnaik. A CHANCE ENCOUNTER Advocate Vivek Kumar (name changed) had his first brush with law when his lawyer did not appear in his case and he was forced to take it up before a Bombay High Court division bench. Kumar's wife had filed a case of maintenance against him in the family court which not only had false evidences but affidavits with incorrect information. Soon Kumar realised that an offence of perjury was committed. She used certain false documents against me in the family court and I realised that making false statements before the court in an affidavit itself is an offence. This can be proved when there are two affidavits coming to the court from the same party where one states A and the other one states something completely opposite to A, said Kumar who now practices law at the Bombay High Court. Kumar, who always worked in the corporate sector was unaware about the intricacies of the legal profession. But his passion for law and his quest to seek justice involved him in this case completely. I used to spend sleepless nights drafting documents, the case studies and the matter. I had hired a lawyer who used to just sign the documents and argue the case in court. But soon I realised that lawyers become monotonous with their arguments after a point and no one can match the passion you have for your case, said Kumar. But what happened one day at the Bombay High Court changed his life forever. Kumar's came up for hearing before a division bench of Justice AM Khanwilkar (who is now in the SC) and Justice Keskar. His case was slotted for 4.55 pm, very close to when courts close down for the day. Kumar's lawyer did not make an appearance that day and he was ready to plead and seek another date for hearing. But the court had other plans. I was told that either I argue the case myself or it would be dismissed. That was the turning point for me. I argued the case for close to 45 minutes when other lawyers get only 5 minutes. After the argument, the court passed a seven-page order. I was telling the court the provisions to look and they were discussing among themselves. That was a wonderful experience, said Kumar. The court passed an order directing the family court to take judicial notice of the documents submitted by his spouse and the matter went in Kumar's favour. Kumar who was 40 at that time soon realised his calling. He enrolled for a three-year law degree the next year and now when he looks back, he can't stop thanking the bench who refused to grant him another date of hearing. Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Tuesday sought reply from the Pinarayi Vijayan government on a PIL seeking CBI probe into the political killings in Kannur. The high court bench has also directed the state government to file a counter affidavit by October 25 and the case would come up for hearing on October 30. On Monday, both CBI and the central government informed the Kerala HC that they have no objection in taking over the investigation into the killings of BJP and RSS workers in the state. An RSS worker was on Sunday attacked allegedly by CPI (M) workers at Muzhuppilangad Thalassery in the Kannur district of Kerala. The petitioner, Kannur-based Gopalan Adiyodi Vakkeel Smaraka Trust's secretary RK Premdas, has said in his appeal that he has taken up the cause of the victims of these murders. The petition mainly focuses on the seven murders of RSS and BJP workers that were allegedly carried out by CPI(M) men. Premdas has mainly referred to the killings of RSS worker Remith at Pinarayi, Kannur on October 12, the deaths of BJP leader Santhosh Kumar of Andallur in Kannur on January 18, local BJP leader CK Ramachandran of Payyannur in Kannur on July 12, RSS activist Biju on May 12 at Palakkod in Kannur and that of BJP worker Vimalaand Sri Radhakrishnan at Kanjikode in Palakkad on December 28. It has also mentioned the murders of BJP worker Raveendran Pillai at Kadakkal in Kollam on February 2 and RSS leader Rajesh near Sreekaryam in Thiruvananthapuram on July 29. The petition prays that the CBI should be asked to investigate the conspiracies behind these seven deaths allegedly caused by CPI(M) men since the party came into power in May last year. Premdas has appealed saying, "In all these cases, active workers of the major constituent party of the ruling front have been arrayed as accused. In some cases, party activists from the constituency of the present chief minister, who is holding the home portfolio are involved. In all these cases, facts and circumstances clearly indicate a high-level political conspiracy behind the murders and efforts to save the real culprits. However, in none of these cases has the conspiracy angle been properly investigated by the state police. Moreover, in each of these cases, deliberate attempts to derail the investigation at the instance of the ruling party with the intention to save the culprits is evident." Moreover, the petitioner has also alleged that political killings still continue in the state thanks to the ruling party activists, who are directly involved in the conspiracy. Thus, the process of law has been intentionally sabotaged by them. The last time CBI had investigated a political killing in Kerala was that of NDF activist Muhammad Fazal in 2006, in which eight CPM members, including Kannur district panchayat member and CPM district secretariat member Karayi Rajan had been accused and arrested. There was a twist in the probe when an RSS worker, Subeesh, who was in custody over a murder case, confessed that he was among a group of RSS workers who killed Fazal. Later, Subeesh retracted his statement, claiming he had been tortured by the police into making it. A special CBI court in Kochi dismissed a petition seeking further probe into the matter saying there was enough evidence to connect the accused CPI(M) workers with the case. Mumbai: A major fire broke out at a chemical factory in Turbhe MIDC area in Navi Mumbai on Tuesday. A plume of thick, black smoke was seen emerging from Mechemco Resins Private Limited in Navi Mumbai. Ten fire tenders from the Mumbai fire brigade reached the spot to assist the fire-fighting. Fire brigade officials said the area around the factory has been evacuated and the blaze has been brought under control. There have been no reports of casualties so far. More details awaited. New Delhi: The house of a former sarpanch, who was shot dead allegedly by the LeT terrorists Monday evening, was on Tuesday set ablaze by a mob in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district. The police said that the mob attacked the former PDP member's house over the death of a terrorist who was killed in a scuffle with family members last evening. "Three terrorists fired upon and killed the PDP member, Mohammad Ramzan, in Shopian," a senior police official said. Director General Police, Jammu and Kashmir, SP Vaid, told CNN-News18 that the crowd had already been dispersed, and the family was now under police protection. According to police, the family members of the deceased fought with the assailants, leading to the death of one of the terrorists. Aligarh: Indian nationalism is not like the concept of European nation states and attempts to redefine it are unnecessary, said former President of India Pranab Mukherjee at Aligarh Muslim University on Tuesday. Mukherjee was addressing the bi-centenary celebrations of the founder of Mohammedan Anglo Oriental College, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan. There have been attempts from time-to-time to redefine definitions of nationalism. According to me, such attempts are unnecessary since our concepts of nationalism and national identity predate the modern-postmodern constructs of identity. The concept of nationalism in the context of European nation states is a new phenomenon in Indian civilization, the former President said. Mukherjee dwelled on the idea of India and said that territory, monarch, temporal and spiritual authority did not define nationalism in India. He added that nationalism could not be imposed by law or implemented by decree or be enforced by a dictum. What is India? The vast land of around 3.3 million kilometers, with people practicing seven religions every day, speaking 100 languages in daily life, bound by one Constitution, one flag, one identity. That is India, Mukherjee said. He also touched upon the modern structure of the government of India, saying that the British tried to enact the foundation of Indian statehood in their concept. Indian statehood is believed to have been in existence since long. This India civilization is society-oriented and not politically dominated, he said. Addressing the gathering, Mukherjee asked the students to take a cue from Khans scientific prowess and temperament. Referring to institutes like IITs, IIMs, NIITs and IISERs, he said the goal should not just be about acquiring a comfortable livelihood but to pursue research and make India a knowledge society. Mukherjee also said that many of the Nobel laureates from India won the prestigious honour for doing research outside India. Its always important to fall back on basic research, he said. New Delhi: The Indian Navy has sent a maritime reconnaissance aircraft to the Philippines to join search operation for 10 Indians on-board a cargo ship that sank in the Pacific off Japan on Friday. The P 8I long range maritime reconnaissance aircraft landed at the Vilamor air base in Manila and will shortly start the search operation, a senior official of the Navy said. On Friday, the 33,205-tonne cargo ship Emerald Star sank off Okinawa. Sixteen Indians have been already rescued, while a search was still on for 10 other missing Indians. Indian missions in Japan, the Philippines and China were coordinating the search operation. "One P-8I aircraft took off at 11:45 PM yesterday(Monday) for Manila to search for missing sailors of MV Emerald Star," the Navy official said. Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh government on Tuesday appointed Justice (Retd) Naresh Gupta as the state Lokayukta, more than a year after the former ombudsman, PP Naolekar, completed his seven-year tenure in June 2016. Gupta, who completed his services at the High Court in June this year, is six years junior to the Deputy Lokayukta UC Maheshwari who had assumed office last year in June. The anti-corruption activists and the Congress party raised eyebrows over Gupta's appointment. Terming the appointment as controversial, Congress Rajya Sabha member Vivek Tankha tweeted that Gupta was six years junior to deputy Lokayukta, expressing surprise as to how the Madhya Pradesh Chief Justice and Leader of Opposition accepted such a transgression. A committee headed by Chief Minister normally finalises the name of the Lokayukta, but this time, a formal proposal was sent to the leader of the opposition, Ajay Singh, who reportedly assented to Gupta's appointment. Alleging breach of norms in the appointment of Lokayukta, anti-graft activist Ajay Dubey said that he would move the Supreme Court on the matter, adding that his petition regarding the transparent process of the appointment of Lokayukta was pending with the HC. Meanwhile, Minister of State for Co-operative affairs Vishwas Sarang shrugged off the Congress allegations, saying that Lokayukta was appointed as per the norms. Congress has the habit of levelling baseless allegations, he said. Interestingly, former SC judge PP Naolekar, who completed his seven-year term as the Lokayukta after an extension, had been a controversial figure. He was constantly targeted by the Congress and anti-graft activists for his alleged proximity to the state government. Chandigarh: Unidentified assailants shot dead Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh leader Ravinder Gosain on Tuesday in Punjab's Ludhiana, police said. Eyewitnesses told the police that Gosain was shot from close range by two motorcycle-borne assailants in Kailash Nagar area. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Gosain was returning from an RSS shakha (daily training in the early morning) and was near his house when he was attacked. He was the Sangh Pracharak (regional missionary) at the RSS shakha in Ludhiana. Tuesday's killing is the fifth of a right-wing leader in Punjab in the last three years. The Punjab Police have failed to nab those behind most of the murderous attacks. Senior Punjab RSS leader Brigadier Jagdish Gagneja (retd) was shot by unidentified motor-cycle borne youths in a busy area of Jalandhar city on August 6, 2016. His assailants continue to be at large. Gagneja, Senior Vice President of the Punjab unit of RSS, was critically injured in the attack. He succumbed to his injuries a month later. Kolkata: The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute here is on the boil after 14 girl students were expelled for protesting against the managements decision to segregate hostels. SRTFI expelled the students on the 14th of October after they stayed put in the boys hostel. They say the girls had got repeated warnings which included calling their parents, but they did not pay heed. Now, the student body launched a protest against imposition of 'draconian rules' and 'threats of expulsion'. The agitating students have boycotted classes according to the management, which says some teachers are not being allowed to enter the classes. On Tuesday, the agitating students blocked the administrative building barring the director, registrar and others in the management from entering their offices. Police was seen on campus which students say are intimidation tactics. The protestors alleged that the segregation rule was made and imposed overnight. There was so such rule in the last 25 years since the institute was founded, they said. There was a meeting on Tuesday between students and the management but no plausible solution has been reached yet. While the management says the students first have to move into the respective hostels before any discussion, the students maintain that the issues need to be resolved first. The management said that segregation of the hostels was implemented as per a decision by the institutes governing council taken in 2009. This was done to prevent cases of sexual harassment which have happened on campus in the past. Sometimes outsiders also reside in the hostel which is also a cause for concern, they said. According to the new rule, students are allowed to enter the girls hostel between 10pm and 6am for project work after signing a register at the entrance. The institute comes under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Going by the governing councils decision, the hostel for girls was constructed by 2015, the council said. The management said that the students were asked to move in May to make space for the new batch entering the institute in August. Debamita Mitra, Director of SRFTI, told CNN-News18, The 14 girls occupying the rooms were preventing the boys of the new academic session to rightfully occupy the rooms despite us repeatedly telling them. The new batch of male students had to be accommodated in the staff quarters. The institute alleged that some students barged into the girls hostel around 11pm on the 14th of October, broke the locks of 10 rooms and occupied them. The Institute filed an FIR against the students, without mentioning the names or the number of students present. The students, however, said the management named 10 students in the FIR of which two students were not present during the time of the incident. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the student body said, "The administration has been coming up with draconian rules every other day and threatening the students constantly with expulsion from the institute, calling the police to threaten the students, imposing fines." Akshay Gouri, president of the students association told CNN-News18, We had opposed the decision to segregate the hostels in the Academic Council meeting. Recently the management has become very rigid and is threatening expulsion. They are of the opinion that we have to listen to them speak. Students say the segregation of the hostel is being used as the primary issue when infact the other issues relating to the institute are falling on deaf years. They claim the director who was appointed in January has been ignoring pending issues and has been targeting certain students. New Delhi: Underscoring the importance of Ayurveda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said time has come for a "health revolution" under the aegis of the traditional medicine system and pitched for affordable and accessible healthcare. Addressing a gathering after dedicating the country's first All India Institute of Ayurveda to the nation in New Delhi, the prime minister noted that the world is heading "back to nature and wellness". Marking 'Ayurveda Divas' on Tuesday, he described the medicine system as India's strength and urged those working in the sector to revive it. He also asked experts from the field to find medicines which can, like allopathy, give immediate relief to people but without side-effects. The prime minister also urged private players to use part of their corporate social responsibility funds to help strengthen Ayurveda. #AyurvedaDay 2017Hon'ble Prime Minister @narendramodi ji speaking about the initiatives of the government for the well being of people pic.twitter.com/7rqQFF5pnz Ministry of AYUSH (@moayush) October 17, 2017 "We have seen the IT revolution in last 30 years. Now, time has come for a health revolution under the aegis of Ayurveda. Let's pledge to strengthen, revive Ayurveda," Modi said at the event. According to the prime minister, efforts were allegedly made to destroy "India's strengths" during the "era of slavery" (pre-independence period). Ayurveda, he added, did not become a priority after independence too. Listing steps being taken by his government to revive and strengthen the system, Modi said Ayurveda-related hospitals should be set up in each district of the country. He said the Ayush ministry would ensure that there was a good Ayurveda hospital in each district. Noting that people across the world were getting attracted towards good health as well as wellness, the prime minister suggested that time was ripe for an atmosphere of Ayurveda to evolve. He said there was need for a relook of the Ayurveda syllabus and underlined the requirement for standard guidelines and treatment in the medicine system so it is not overpowered by Allopathy. The government, Modi added, respects all health and medicine systems. He said the Ministries of Ayush and Agriculture can guide farmers to sow medicinal plants in their fields. This will also help farmers boost their income in line with the government's plan to double their income by 2022, when India attains 75 years of independence. Modi also reiterated the importance of cleanliness as part of preventive healthcare. New Delhi: In August this year when the Supreme Court formed a panel to devise a working plan to uplift the condition of widows of Vrindavan, the division bench of Justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta also stressed that the committee should suggest ways to encourage widow remarriage. The six-member committee comprises Suneeta Dhar of NGO Jagori, Meera Khanna of Guild for Service, activist and lawyer Abha Singhal, lawyer Aparajita Singh and one nominee each from NGOs HelpAge India and Sulabh International. India does not need any new law for widow remarriage as it would infringe upon the fundamental right of choice and that more employment-linked skill training was needed for the widows to avoid the vicious circle of cultural marginalisation and economic deprivation, said Khanna. The committee has been given a deadline to submit its report by November 30 and the panel is currently in the process of studying all the recommendations. It would select the best ones and devise a working plan to rehabilitate and uplift the widows of Vrindavan. Widow remarriage is a matter of personal choice. So there can be no law for this. If widow remarriage was considered socially or culturally unacceptable, then there can be a law saying that widow remarriage is not prohibited. Many of these widows who are in the older category do not want to get married, said Khanna. Khanna also pointed out the perils of forced widow remarriage if a law comes into force. There are cases where a large property involved... then in an attempt to keep the property within the family, the widow is forced to marry the elder brother of her deceased husband. So, this practice should be stopped. Remarriage is about choice and a law cannot govern it, said Khanna. The panel member said the big question is: How social security schemes can be developed so that economic deprivation of widows does not take place? One of the most plaguing issues in Vrindavan has been sexual exploitation of widows. Migrant women are always vulnerable to sexual attacks, Khanna told News18. There are multiple levels of vulnerabilities. This vulnerability starts at being a widow, then due to a patriarchal society, there is cultural marginalisation, social discrimination and economic deprivation. Hence, vulnerability to sexual assault, molestation and exploitation, she explained. Khanna said a statement of purpose which was earlier devised by a National Commission for Women (NCW) panel might be of help to tackle the sexual exploitation menace. Some of the members from our SC-formed panel were also members of the NCW committee. We had made a SOP on how the government-supported widow homes should function, particularly to prevent sexual assault, said Khanna. She said unless widows of Vrindavan were empowered economically, they will continue to be at the mercy of others. Widows are vulnerable citizens of the country. It is duty of the state to ensure that their vulnerability is not exploited. For this, they need employment-linked skill training. I would suggest that we have to move away from the welfare-based rehabilitation approach for widows to an entitlement-based approach. If there is an educated and wealthy widow, would anyone have the guts to tell her not to enter a puja area? "Why do Delhi people blame us for the pollution in their city? Dont they have local sources of pollution? The problem is Dilliwalas dont want to give up their cars and factories, grumbles Manjeet Singh, a farmer from Wazidpur village in Patiala. He is speaking about the crop fires in Punjab and Haryana, which have been held as the primary cause of Delhis worsening air pollution. The farmers rant has more than a modicum of truth. Government air quality data and meteorological scientists confirm that Delhis air quality is very poor, even without the full impact of crop burning in the neighbouring states. Crop burning contributes at most 30% to Delhis air pollution, Mahesh Palawat, Chief Meteorologist at Skymet, a private weather forecasting firm, told News18. The major polluting sources are local in nature: vehicular fumes, construction dust, factory smoke and the fumes from landfill waste. Data from SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research), a government air quality index, indicates that Delhis air quality is already very poor, without the full impact of crop burning. Crop fires have started in Haryana as the paddy crop has been harvested, though they have not picked up in intensity. In Punjab, the crop is still being cut and the fires will start in earnest after October 25. Some reports suggest that incidents of crop fires may be down by as much as 40% this year due to an NGT order banning the practice and pollution control board officials seeking to fine farmers. Earlier this year, the Union Environment Ministry unveiled a Graded Response Action Plan to tackle air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region. The plan outlines steps to be taken when the concentration of pollutants breaches permissible limits, as it does in the winters. When PM 2.5 (particulate matter) levels breach 100 micro grams per metre cube, sweeping and water-sprinkling of roads has been mandated. The current level in Delhi is 124, forecast to rise to 135 in the next 3 days. PM 10 is even worse at 220. Other steps include ensuring the smooth flow of traffic. However, construction activity on expanding the Delhi Metro and the sheer volume of cars ensures that traffic snarls are the norm. Even the odd-even scheme, deemed important to curb pollution, faced a massive backlash. Stopping landfill fires was another step suggested. However, Delhis mountains of waste continue to self-combust. A fire broke out over the weekend at the Ghazipur landfill while at the Bhalaswa site in north Delhi, fires contributed to a haze over North West Delhi. The only measure that seems to have been implemented is the ban on the sale of firecrackers in NCR. Memories of the pea-soup haze last year after Diwali are still fresh in the minds of Delhi residents and the courts have taken cognizance of the contribution of crackers to air pollution. A common hair loss drug used by none other than US President Donald Trump could ward off the risk of prostate cancer by a third, South Korean scientists have claimed. The findings, led by researchers from the Chungbuk National University, revealed that men who take the drug "finasteride" saw their prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels reduced by one-third, dailymail.co.uk reported last weekend. PSA is a protein linked with a high risk of developing prostate cancer. Often sold under the brand 'Propecia," "Finasteride" has been used by Trump, reported his long-time physician Harold N. Bornstein in an interview to The New York Times recently. "Finasteride", originally developed to treat urinary problems in men, works by making the prostate glands smaller. It also reduces the levels of the hormone dihydrotestosterone in participants, known to damage hair follicles. "It's been known for some time that 5-alpha-inhibitors like 'finasteride' or 'dutasteride' can affect a man's PSA levels and, as a result, could affect the reliability of the PSA test," said Karen Stalbow, Head of Policy, Knowledge, and Impact at Prostate Cancer UK. In 1997, the FDA approved "Finasteride" as the first-ever drug to treat male pattern baldness. For the study, the researcher tested the drug's effects on 1,379 alopecia (a type of baldness) patients. "Finasteride" has also been known to have side effects such as low mood, reduced ability to get an erection and even loss of sexual desire. Previous studies have shown how some men experienced a boost in muscle mass and performance, as well as increased libido. After transforming himself to an adorable grandfather in Shakun Batra's Kapoor and Sons, Rishi Kapoor is back with another stellar role it seems. The veteran actor took to Twitter to surprise his fans by sharing the first look of his upcoming film Mulq. The actor didn't tweet the look per se but changed his display picture and wrote, "For all my fans my first look of the film Mulq. Voice of tomorrow!" While replying to a fan's tweet, Rishi also clarified about his film with Amitabh Bachchan. "Another diffrent fun film I am doing 102 Not Outwith the amazing AB." Another diffrent fun film I am doing 102 Not Outwith the amazing AB pic.twitter.com/wtHpO5Hguc Rishi Kapoor (@chintskap) October 16, 2017 Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the film also stars Rajat Kapoor, Ashutosh Rana, Taapsee Pannu and Prateik Babbar besides Rishi. Reports also suggest that the film will be based on real-life events and the film will revolve around the story of a joint family which hails from a small town in India, and the members are out to reclaim their honour after being embroiled in a controversy. The film, which will be shot in Varanasi and Lucknow, is expected to release sometime early next year. Mumbai: Veteran actor Hema Malini said on Monday that she shared a "beautiful" relationship with Sunny Deol, Dharmendra's son from his first wife. The 69-year-old actor says there has always been curiosity regarding her equation with Sunny, which has been extremely wonderful and cordial. "Everyone wonders what kind of a relationship we (Sunny and I) are having. It is very beautiful and cordial. Whenever it is necessary he (Sunny) is always there, along with Dharamji, especially when this accident happened," Malini said. The actor-parliamentarian met with a road accident near Dausa in Rajasthan in 2015 on her way from Agra to Jaipur, when her Mercedes allegedly rammed into an Alto. Malini reportedly fractured her nose and suffered injuries on her forehead. "He (Sunny) was the first person to come and see me at home and he saw that the right doctor is there for the stitches that were done on my face. I was really taken aback to see him showing so much interest. That shows what kind of a relationship we are having," Malini added. She was talking at the launch of her biography, Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl, written by Ram Kamal Mukherjee. The biography was launched by actor Deepika Padukone in the presence of Malini's family, including daughters Esha and Ahana Deol with their respective husbands, and industry colleagues Ramesh Sippy, Juhi Chawla and Subhash Ghai. Lucknow: In a clear snub to his MLA Sangeet Som for stirring the Taj Mahal controversy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is set to visit the monument on October 26. This would be the maiden visit by the CM to the mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, after being sworn into office earlier this year. Sources said that the CM spoke to Som seeking an explanation on his statement calling the Taj Mahal a blot on Indian culture. "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from UP tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? The creator of Taj Mahal (Shahjahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out Hindus. If these people are part of our history, then it is very sad and we will change this history," Som had said. "It is immaterial as to who and how the Taj Mahal was built... It was made by the sweat and blood of Bharat Mata's sons," the Chief Ninister said in Gorakhpur, according to PTI. "It is famous the world over for its architecture... it is a historical monument and its protection and further development for tourism is the responsibility of the government," he added. Reacting to the incident, Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan had jumped into the controversy and called the Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan and Qutub Minar "signs of slavery". "From the very beginning, I've been saying that all signs of slavery should be removed. Why just Taj Mahal? They should remove Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Red Fort and even Qutub Minar. All of these are signs of slavery," said Khan. Adityanath also announcing that he would visit Agra on October 26 and there was a Rs 370 crore work plan for the city. He said it was the duty of the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure that proper security and facilities were extended to tourists. Earlier, the BJP had backed its MLA and described Muslim rule in India as "barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance", while asserting that its members can hold any opinion they want on specific monuments. Party spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said the party does not have any view on specific monuments and its members can hold whatever opinion they have. "But as far as the Muslim, Mughal rule in this country is concerned, that period can only be described as exploitative, barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance which harmed Indian civilisation and traditions immensely," he said. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: With crucial civic polls due in Uttar Pradesh next month, BJP MLA Sangeet Som has tried the old trick again. It is not the first time that Som has tried to polarise discourse just before an election. Ahead of a bye-poll in Uttar Pradesh in 2014, he called for a mahapanchayat on Love Jihad. On the eve of polling, Som called this years UP Assembly elections a fight between Hindustan and Pakistan and distributed CDs with clippings from Muzaffarnagar riots, in which he is implicated. He was in fact among the five people who reportedly were castigated by BJP high command for raking up the beef issue following Mohammed Akhlaqs murder, in 2015. While BJP has officially distanced itself from Som's position, the fact is that it has only added fuel to a controversy that began much earlier, partly through statements made by the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath who publicly expressed reservations about accepting the mausoleum as being representative of Indian culture. In June this year, Adityanath had said, Earlier, foreign dignitaries visiting the country used to be gifted replicas of the Taj Mahal and other minarets which did not reflect Indian culture. At another instance, during a debate on a TV channel, Adityanath had said he wouldnt even mind changing the name of Taj Mahal. Now, Adityanath himself has made plans to visit Taj Mahal on October 26. The controversy over Taj Mahal as well as a proposal to install a 100 meter high statue of Ram on the banks of river Saryu in Ayodhya where Yogi will be spending this Diwali, could be seen as part of BJPs election campaigning for the upcoming civic polls which are vital for BJP for at least three very immediate reasons. First is that civic polls in Uttar Pradesh will be held in November when Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh will also go to polls. The sentiments from one election could easily affect the public sentiment in other elections. Second is that after November, bypolls are also due in two assembly seats Gorakhpur and Phulpur. The first is Parliament constituency of UPs Chief Minister while the other is Parliamentary constituency of its deputy Chief Minister. The third reason that UP civic polls are crucial to BJP is that these will be held eight months after Yogi governments swearing in, and will be for this reason the first real test of partys popularity. The state which rewarded Modi for his ambitious demonetisation scheme, will now be assessing his other big financial reform the GST. And the civic polls will also of course help BJP make course correction in time for 2019 general elections. BJPs seriousness in winning these polls can be gauged from the fact that it is working, after a gap of 17 years, to issue a manifesto for UP civic polls. BSP too is trying something new this time fielding its candidates under its own party symbol. The strategy for civic polls is mainly what BJP is understood to have discussed in its state working panel meet in Kanpur last week. Civic polls are scheduled at an interesting time for all the major parties in Uttar Pradesh. Congress, which is fighting the polls alone, is upbeat after winning the Gurdaspur bypoll by a huge margin. And the regional parties SP and BSP are gearing up for their first electoral fight after reinventing themselves following mass defections and massive drubbing in state polls. BJP will be fighting the polls on the back of losses in civic polls in Nanded, defeats in bypolls in Gurdaspur and Vengara, and a string of losses in student elections. But the party will also back itself on the results of last civic poll results in which BJP was successful in installing 12 out of 16 Mayors in the state. In this political contest in UP, this may not be the last we hear from BJPs MLA from Sardana, Sangeet Som. Other local motormouths in BJP that have been silent like Som, since the party came to power, may also break their silence in days to come as UP comes nearer to casting its votes in the civic polls. New Delhi: The BJP on Monday described Muslim rule in India as "barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance", while asserting that its members can hold any opinion they want on specific monuments. The BJP's reaction came after Sangeet Som, its MLA from Uttar Pradesh, questioned the Taj Mahal's place in history and said the presence of Mughals in India's history is "unfortunate". Asked about the BJP's stand on Som's comments on the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife, party spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said the party does not have any view on specific monuments and its members can hold whatever opinion they have. "But as far as the Muslim, Mughal rule in this country is concerned, that period can only be described as exploitative, barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance which harmed Indian civilisation and traditions immensely," he told PTI. Rao also lashed out at All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi after the latter attacked the BJP over Som's comments. Responding to Som's comments, Owaisi asked if the government would tell tourists not to visit the Taj Mahal. "Even in the present times, Mulim leaders such as Owaisi exhibit the same level of intolerance as Muslim rulers once displayed," Rao said, in response to Owaisi's remarks. During a visit to Meerut district, Sangeet Som, the legislator from Sardhana, had also termed Mughal emperors Babur, Akbar and Aurangzeb "traitors" and said their names would be removed from the pages of history. In comments that come soon after the Yogi Adityanath government reportedly left out the Taj Mahal from an official tourism booklet, Som said, "Many people were pained to see that the Taj Mahal was removed from the list of places (tourist destinations). What type of history? "Is this history that the person who built the Taj Mahal imprisoned his father? Do you call it history when the one who built the Taj targeted many Hindus in Uttar Pradesh and Hindustan?" Som is not new to controversy, often making the headlines for his provocative statements and actions on issues such as the Dadri lynching and the Muzaffarnagar riots. Chennai: DMK working president MK Stalin on Tuesday launched an attack on the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government for imposing Hindi on the state. The attack came after reports that the state will implement a three-language formula in schools which was suggested by the Centre. "The news published in various newspapers about efforts to implement '3-language policy' from 2018-19 academic year is shocking at the least. The information about school education officers considering the recommendations of the Central Government's NCERT officials about '3-language policy' has revealed that the danger of onslaught of our mother tongue by hegemonic forces, Stalin said. While states like Karnataka, Kerala, Kerala, Telengana, West Bengal and Maharashtra have taken adequate measures to promote their mother tongue and have come against the imposition of Hindi in recent years, Peraringnar Anna took the decision to embrace '2-langauge policy' 50 years ago, due to his foresight about the tendency of the central government towards increased centralization, thereby stemmed the domination of the Hindi language in this land," he added in a statement. Stalin clarified that while DMK was not against any languages, they would not allow the rights of Tamil to be trampled. Stalin's statement comes at a time when the Vice President and former cabinet minister Venkaiah Naidu advocated the use of one's mother tongue in everyday conversations. Speaking at a Network18 event in Chennai, Naidu said: Everyone should speak in their own mother tongue. Mother tongue is like a pair of eyes and other languages are like spectacles. If one's eyes are weak, there is no use of spectacles. " Responding to Stalins statement, BJP spokesperson Narayanan Tirupathy said, BJPs policy is three-language formula in schools. By having this formula, people from other states living in Tamil Nadu will have the advantage of studying Tamil. In 2011, during the UPA rule, in all kedriya vidyalayas, Tamil was removed and German was replaced. In 2014, we re-instated Tamil in all kendriya vidyala schools. DMK doesn't have the moral rights to criticise the BJP. DMK does not want others to learn Hindi but want their members to learn Hindi to capture power in Delhi. DMK has denied opportunity for tamilians to learn other regional languages in Tamil Nadu. They cannot stop the three-language formula being implemented in Tamil Nadu, he added. Political analyst Sumanth Raman said: "The people in the state would welcome Hindi being offered as an additional language. They are clear that they dont want Hindi as a compulsory language. " While the state government has not responded to Stalin's statement, political observers say it should clarify on whether Hindi will be imposed in schools. RK Radhakrishnan, Associate Editor, Frontline, said: "When there's a doubt in the minds of people if there was a move to impose Hindi in Tamil Nadu, it is the duty of the state government to clarify its position, and the facts of the matter. The allegation is being made by a responsible member of the largest party in Tamil Nadu today, the DMK, and it is incumbent on the government to respond to this allegation." In Tamil Nadu, campaign against Hindi imposition began in 1937. When the DMK came to power in 1967, a resolution was passed that the state will follow a two-language formula making it compulsory for schools to teach Tamil and English. Till date, the state is following this policy irrespective of whichever party is in power. New Delhi: The Kerala government has decided to ban caste-indicator words like Dalit and Harijan from its official communication, a directive that has raised many questions. The order was issued on the basis of recommendation from Kerala State Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes chairman Justice PN Vijayakumar. Speaking to News18, Vijayakumar said the commission was yet to decide the words that will replace Dalit and Harijan in official communication. The Information and Public Relation Department of the state government, in a circular dated October 7, said removal of these words, along with the word Keezhalar (scheduled communities), would help in curbing discrimination against these communities. Sources in the Commission told News18 that a complaint was filed by Malayali students in IIT-Madras and other professional colleges saying that use of such terms by the state government was seen as a blot on their identity. Many Dalit activists, however, said the community has a historical and social background, which cannot be taken away by mere name changing. It has origins deep rooted in Ambedkarite and Gandhian values. One shouldnt take this matter lightly. For many, Dalit as a word is sign of empowerment, said Manuel, a Dalit activist based in Kerala. Another activist, Kuffir, said those who impose social boycott, which the government is trying to curb, know who the Dalits and non-Dalits are. Yes, there have been Dalit voices who have said such words shouldnt be used. But in villages, where discrimination happens in most regressive ways, everyone knows who belongs to scheduled caste or tribe. Its just a political move which will not yield any results on the ground, he said. The word Dalit comes from dal, which means broken in Sanskrit. The founder of Satya Shodak Samaj, Jyotirao Phule, is considered to be the first person to have used the term in the 19th century. The term was, later on, popularised by BR Ambedkar. Kerala has, of late, seen many cases of discrimination against backward classes. Earlier this year, Dalit protestors broke down a 400-metre wall around the compound of a temple that was built by the Nair Service Society in Choonda, Ernakulam. The wall was built to restrict entry of the Dalits. In another incident, the Chakkliya community in Ambedkar colony in Palakkad refused to bury the dead from the higher caste community after the Chakkliyas, considered among the lowest in the SC bracket, were not allowed to draw water from public tank. It was also widely reported that the tea shops in this area used two sets of glasses to serve tea one for upper castes and the other for those from lower castes. Punjabs debt burden, at nearly 1.9 lakh crore, matches the margin of victory in the Gurdaspur bye-election 1.9 lakh votes. Neither the amazing grace of victorious Congressman Sunil Jakhar, nor the BJPs overlooking Vinod Khannas widow, nor Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singhs extended honeymoon with the electorate, can explain the punishing blow dealt to the ruling party in Gurdaspur. Its the economy, stupid, to borrow the catchphrase of Bill Clintons 1990 campaign. A loan waiver for one million farmers in the backdrop of spiralling rural debt, continuing suicides by farmers and a deepening water crisis, may explain why Jakhar romped home with an unprecedented margin. Punjabs economy is sinking and the states electorate has pinned its hopes of revival on the redoubtable duo of chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh and finance minister Manpreet Singh Badal. In political terms, Gurdaspur has sent clear signals to all the players. For the BJP, it has once again red-flagged its two-decade-old alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). The string of reverses in Punjab, starting with the shock defeat of stalwart Arun Jaitley in Amritsar, followed by the decimation of the NDA in the state assembly polls earlier this year and crowned by the bye-election result, is a clear indication that the SAD has become a liability. The BJPs most prominent face in Punjab, Navjot Singh Sidhu, was forced into the welcoming embrace of the Congress on the eve of the Assembly polls, thanks to his differences with the SADs first family, the Badals. The original premise of the SAD-BJP alliance a social coalition of landed peasantry and traders and bankers still makes sense, as it did in the late 1960s (Jan Sangh-SAD). In the 1990s, the refurbished alliance also furthered the marginalization of radical forces and the shift in agenda towards communal harmony. The realities on the ground have changed, however. The SADs Jat Sikh-dominated discourse has not adapted to Dalit aspirations. Punjab has the highest scheduled caste population of any state in India, at around 32 per cent. Most of them are in rural areas and have a disproportionate share of marginal holdings and BPL status. This economically disadvantaged section is finding a political voice. The BJP must also consider the fact that the Jat Sikh vote, always split between SAD and Congress, has swung towards the latter after ten years of NDA rule and the economic downturn. Gurdaspur, incidentally, has an SC population of around 25 per cent and a strong Christian presence (over 7 per cent and rising). It is to the late Vinod Khannas credit that he managed to hold on to the constituency for four terms, losing only once, in 2009. Jakhar elegantly mitigated the sympathy factor by visiting his widow, Kavita Khanna, before the election. She had failed to secure the BJP ticket, apparently because a pre-poll survey questioned her winnability. For the good Captain, Gurdaspur puts him firmly in control of the Punjab Congress. His one-time chief rival and former Gurdaspur MP, Partap Singh Bajwa, currently in the Rajya Sabha, was keen that his wife get the ticket. In setting aside his claim in favour of party chief Sunil Jakhar, the CM was taking the risk of a disgruntled Bajwa playing spoiler. But the gamble paid off spectacularly. On the other hand, he faces what appears to be the almost insurmountable challenge of scripting a turnaround in Punjabs economy. Competitive populism will not serve. Earlier this year, finance minister Badal made a clean breast of the states financing with a white paper spelling out the total outstanding debt a staggering Rs 1.87 lakh crore, including an informal debt of Rs 4,435 crore, raised without the approval of the Centre. Add state guarantees and the debt is more than Rs 2 lakh crore. A telling indicator of fiscal mismanagement are liabilities of over Rs 13,000 crore for various schemes, subsidies, bills and dearness allowance. A debt of Rs 31,000 crore was incurred for foodgrain procurement, resulting in an annual debt-servicing outgo of Rs 3,240 crore. If the Centre does not come to Punjabs aid and take a sympathetic view by waiving interest, the state will go under. Realty rates in the state have been in free fall for the last three years, as much as 30 to 45 per cent. Equally disastrous is the ecological impact of the green revolution. In terms of groundwater, 112 of the 138 blocks in the state are overexploited. The profligate use of water continues even as the power subsidy to farmers touches Rs 10,000 crore. The Congress government has made it clear that the counter-productive subsidy will continue, despite the impact on the states water resources and its finances. Currently, the Captain is in a honeymoon phase. Even the corruption scandal in which his irrigation minister is embroiled has not had an electoral impact, given the rapacious administration which preceded it. He has also bought goodwill through the recent loan waiver and by going easy on farmers on the crop-burning issue, but these are temporary measures. Farmers must be delivered from the rising cost of farm inputs and rural debt, jobs must be created and the pressure on land eased; a business as usual approach will inexorably turn the tide against him. Last but not the least, the Aam Admi Party has been reduced to a non-player. The grassroots support it had garnered among the have-nots melted away, not merely because of fault-lines in the organization or lack of a credible Jat Sikh face, but because it clearly does not understand the sensitivities of the state. It must serve as a constructive opposition and focus on economic issues, without making the silly errors it did in the run-up to the Assembly elections. All Punjab wants is good governance, for a change. (The writer is a senior journalist. Views are personal) New Delhi: Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi seems to have opted for a change in strategy before his elevation to the top party post. Call it realpolitik, Rahul who once seemed to favour the young turks, now wants to work with the old guard and sees winnability as a key factor. A case in point is Virbhadra Singhs appointment as chairman of campaign committee for the Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections. This development underlines the fact that while the Congress is preparing for a generational change, it cant let go of the old guard yet. Rahul has been drawing some traction with his witty tweets and aggressive campaigns but when it comes to realpolitik and building a second rung of leadership, he has failed so far. So while Rahul is ready to take over as the next president of the party that is fighting for survival, he isnt being assisted by a strongman. There are capable and bright young leaders around him like Sachin Pilot, Jyotiraditya Scindia, RPN Singh, Ramya, Jitin Prasada and Milind Deora but they are yet to master the tricks of the trade. In the recent Rajya Sabha polls, the wily Ahmed Patel showed the juniors that they have still a lot to learn to checkmate their opponents. News18 has learnt that while Rahul is putting a young team in place, he has decided to fall back on the old guard in the crucial upcoming polls. Journalist Rasheed Kidwai, who has written several books on the Congress, said Rahul needs to understand that leadership has little to do with age. Virbhadra Singh won Himachal in 2012 at the age of 78 when the popular tide was turning against the Congress. Captain Amarinder Singh, who won Punjab for the party, is 75. Mahatma Gandhi returned to India when he was 45 and peaked over the next three decades. Jaiprakash Narayan was also old when he led the JP movement against Indira Gandhi. V P Singh and Anna Hazare are some other examples, said Kidwai. A classic case of the old guard still being relevant is Rajasthan. Sachin Pilot, who is close to Rahul, was made the state chief and has been parked in the state for over a year. Pilot has been travelling across Rajasthan to ensure that the party has a fighting chance in the 2018 Assembly elections. But the Ashok Gehlot factor cannot be ignored. To ensure that Gehlot doesnt meddle he was made Gujarat in-charge. But sources say Gehlot maintains his hold over Rajasthan. Gehlot has the clout, the men and the caste combination that means Rahul may have to rely on the old warhorse to ensure a win. In Karnataka, too, the party has decided to stick to Siddaramaiah. Chances are Rahul might officially announce his name as the CM face once the campaign picks up. The picture is hazy in Madhya Pradesh and has been kept so intentionally. Its a state where the Congress has many groups and is deeply divided. While Digvijaya Singh has seemingly withdrawn from the race, his Narmada Yatra is seen as his way of showing how he is still relevant in MP politics. Kamal Nath has made it clear that he is not in the race for the CMs post which leaves Scindia in the pole position. But with less than a year to go for the Assembly elections, the party doesnt want to antagonise anyone and risk its chances. So, it is still dragging its feet in announcing Scindias name. A senior leader said, Yes we need a generational change but has anyone bothered to train the young ones. Congress today is fighting for existence and relevance and we cannot take chances. So the seniors are the best bet. A fact acknowledged by Rahul himself while he was in US recently when he said we need the experience of the seniors as well. Its clear the Congress is not ready to break from the past yet. Moto X4 launch event had earlier been postponed by Motorola from its original launch date of October 3. As per a recent tweet, the company is now set to unveil the smartphone in India on November 13. Following its global debut at IFA 2017, the latest addition to the Moto X series boasted of both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice assistant support. Though the Motorola smartphones in India always carried Google Assistant support, the Moto X4 is expected to carry the Amazon Alexa integration as well, following the launch of Amazons voice services in India last month. We agree! The #MotoX4 will be unveiled on the 13th of November. Stay tuned for all details! Motorola India (@motorolaindia) October 16, 2017 In terms of specifications, the Moto X4 carries a metal unibody design sporting a 5.2-inch Full-HD display with a 1080x1920 pixel resolution and a Corning Gorilla Glass protection on top. Moto X4 is powered by a 2.2GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 630 SoC and carries a 3GB RAM, along with 32GB of internal storage. It runs the Android 7.1 Nougat OS and will be getting the Android Oreo update soon. The dual camera setup on the Moto X4 includes a 12-megapixel dual auto-focus lens with f/2.0 aperture and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide angle lens with f/2.2 aperture. The setup enables modes like depth detection, depth effects, ultra-wide-angle photos, selective focus and more. On the front, the Moto X4 carries a 16-megapixel selfie camera with f/2.0 aperture and LED flash. The Motorola smartphone is powered by a 3,000 mAh battery that supports fast charging., Additional features on the smartphone include a fingerprint sensor at the bottom bezel in the front, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, 4G LTE, 3.5mm audio jack, USB Type-C connectivity and a single nano-SIM slot. The Moto X4 is priced at EUR 399 (~Rs30,500) and is expected to carry a similar price tag to India. Watch Video: Motorola Moto Z2 Play Review | Are Mods Good? The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to resolve a major privacy dispute between the Justice Department and Microsoft over whether prosecutors should get access to emails stored on company servers overseas. The justices will hear the Trump administration's appeal of a lower court's ruling last year preventing federal prosecutors from obtaining emails stored in Microsoft computer servers in Dublin, Ireland in a drug trafficking investigation. That decision by the New York-based 2nd U.S. Court of Appeals marked a victory for privacy advocates and technology companies that increasingly offer cloud computing services in which data is stored remotely. Prosecutors say a ruling in favour of Microsoft could undermine a range of criminal investigations. Microsoft, which has 100 data centers in 40 countries, was the first U.S. company to challenge a domestic search warrant seeking data held outside the country. There have been several similar challenges, most brought by Google. "If U.S. law enforcement can obtain the emails of foreigners stored outside the United States, what's to stop the government of another country from getting your emails even though they are located in the United States?" Brad Smith, Microsoft's president and chief legal officer, said in a blog post on Monday. A Justice Department spokesman declined to comment. Government lawyers said in court papers that the lower court ruling "gravely threatens public safety and national security" because it limits the government's ability to "ward off terrorism and similar national security threats and to investigate and prosecute crimes." The case attracted significant attention from technology and media companies concerned that a ruling favouring the government could jeopardize the privacy of customers and make them less likely to use cloud services because of concern that data could be seized. Though Microsoft is based in Washington state, the court said the emails were beyond the reach of U.S. domestic search warrants issued under a 1986 law called the Stored Communications Act. The Microsoft customer in question told the company he was based in Ireland when he signed up for his account. Bipartisan legislation has been introduced in Congress to update the 1986 law, a move that Microsoft has backed. "Regardless of the ultimate decision, Congress should resolve the issue of cross-border law enforcement data demands, with a clear focus on strong human rights protections for all internet users," said Greg Nojeim, a senior counsel at the Center for Democracy & Technology digital rights group, which backs Microsoft in the case. The Microsoft dispute is the second that the justices have agreed to hear in their current term that touches upon privacy rights in the digital age. The other case concerns whether police officers need the warrant to access information on the past locations of cell phone users that is held by wireless carriers. Rulings in both cases are due by the end of June. BEYOND THE REACH The lower court ruling put stored electronic communications held overseas beyond the reach of U.S. prosecutors even when there is probable cause that they contain evidence of a crime, Justice Department lawyers said in court papers. In the appeals court, Microsoft was supported by dozens of technology and media companies including Amazon, Apple, CNN and Verizon Communications, as well as the American Civil Liberties Union and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce business group. A coalition of 33 U.S. states and Puerto Rico backed the Justice Department's appeal, saying in court papers that obtaining customer data from tech companies is vital to a broad range of criminal investigations, including child sexual exploitation and murder. In the underlying case, the government in 2013 sought a warrant requiring information about a Microsoft email account that prosecutors believed was being used for narcotics trafficking. No further details about the investigation have been made public. The Supreme Court has twice in recent years ruled on major cases concerning how the criminal law applies to new technology, on each occasion ruling against law enforcement. In 2012, the court held that a warrant is required to place a GPS tracking device on a vehicle. In 2014, the court ruled that police need the warrant to search a cellphone seized during an arrest. 3 Reasons To Buy Apple iPhone 8 Plus and 2 Reasons To Skip It | Feat The Unbiased Blog Vienna: Austria's shift to the right in a parliamentary election has paved the way for young conservative star Sebastian Kurz to become the next leader and opened a path for the resurgent far right to return to power. The People's Party, which named 31-year-old Foreign Minister Kurz its leader only in May, secured a clear victory on Sunday with a hard line on immigration that left little space between it and the anti-Islam Freedom Party (FPO). But Kurz was still well short of a majority and only two other parties won enough seats to give him control of parliament in a coalition. An alliance with the FPO is far from certain, but it is the most likely outcome. That prospect prompted guarded expressions of concern from European leaders including Germany's Angela Merkel, who said the FPO's strong showing was a "big challenge" for other parties in Austria. Kurz has been careful to avoid saying which coalition partner he might favour. He has said any partner must be pro-European, without saying whether that rules out the FPO, which is critical of the bloc but no longer argues against membership. "The (election) result is above all a clear victory for the European Union, it is a clear victory for us as a pro-European force," Kurz told Reuters. His party's manifesto calls for a smaller European Commission and a streamlined EU that focuses on "core competences" such as internal trade and securing the bloc's external borders. But he declined to be drawn on specific plans. Austria was a gateway into Germany for more than a million people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and elsewhere during Europe's migration crisis which began in 2015. It also took in more than one percent of its population in asylum seekers that year. Many voters feel the country was overrun then. Austria's shift to the right came after German voters last month punished Merkel's open-door policy for migrants, pushing her conservative bloc to its worst showing since 1949 and putting the far-right AfD party in parliament. The FPO was founded by former Nazis in the 1950s and went from minnow to political heavyweight in the 1990s under the charismatic Joerg Haider, who praised Hitler's employment policies. It was one of the first far-right parties to enjoy mainstream success in Europe since World War Two. When the FPO went into government in 2000 with the conservative party Kurz now leads, the rest of the European Union reacted with outrage and imposed sanctions on Austria . The FPO is now a sister to France's National Front and the AfD. POLISHED Though on course to be one of the world's youngest leaders, Kurz is a relative veteran in government. He entered cabinet as a secretary of state for integration six years ago and has been foreign minister for the past three. He made immigration his core issue, arguing against his own coalition government's decision to throw open Austria's borders in lock step with Merkel's Germany during the migration crisis. That helped cement his reputation as a polished straight talker and make him the country's most popular politician. Kurz called an end to a coalition with the Social Democrats, prompting Sunday's election, and the two sides are at loggerheads, making a tie-up with the FPO more likely. The race between the FPO and Chancellor Christian Kern's Social Democrats was too close to call after Sunday's count, leaving it to postal ballots -- roughly a sixth of all votes cast -- to tell them apart. The bulk of those ballots were expected to be counted on Monday. The FPO was ahead on Sunday but pollsters' projections showed postal ballots swinging the vote against it, as they did in last year's close-fought presidential election. With most postal votes counted, the Social Democrats had taken the lead and were ahead by 2,540 votes, with both parties on 26.6 percent, Interior Ministry data showed on Monday night. "We are not yet in the phase of coalition talks," said Kurz, adding that he would await Thursday's final result. If the FPO had came second, it would have improved its odds of going into government with Kurz, since the Social Democrats would only consider a 'coalition of losers' with the FPO if the far-right party were the junior partner. In June the Social Democrats lifted a self-imposed ban on coalitions with the FPO that had been in place for 30 years, implicitly recognising the difficulty of forming governments without a party on course to secure more than 26 percent of Sunday's votes. After decades in parliament, the Freedom Party has sought to become increasingly mainstream, purging its ranks of overt anti-Semitism and even openly courting Jewish voters, with limited success. World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder, who was the U.S. ambassador to Austria from 1986 to 1987, called for the FPO to be kept out of government. "It is sad and distressing that such a platform should receive more than a quarter of the vote," Lauder said in a statement. Valleta, Malta: A Maltese investigative journalist who exposed the island nation's links to offshore tax havens through the leaked Panama Papers was killed Monday when a bomb exploded in her car, the prime minister said. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, had just driven away from her home in Mosta, a large town on Malta's main island, when the bomb went off, sending the vehicle's wreckage spiraling over a wall and into a field, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. Caruana Galizia's death resulted from a "barbaric attack" that also amounted to an assault on freedom of expression, Muscat said. He said the journalist "was one of my harshest critics, on a political and personal level" as he denounced her slaying. One of the topics she examined was the Maltese content in the Panama Papers leaked in 2016. She wrote that Muscat's wife, the country's energy minister and the government's chief-of-staff had offshore holdings in Panama to receive money from Azerbaijan. Muscat and his wife, Michelle, denied they had companies in Panama. Caruana Galizia filed a police report two weeks ago saying she was receiving threats, law enforcement officials told Malta news outlets on Monday. The slain journalist had written a twice-weekly column for The Malta Independent since 1996 and wrote a blog, "Running Commentary." This undated photo shows Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese investigative journalist who exposed her island nations links with the so-called Panama Papers. Galizia was killed on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017, when a bomb destroyed her car as she was driving near her home in Mosta, a town outside Valletta, Maltas capital, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said. (The Malta Independent via AP) Monday evening's Parliament session was scrapped, except for briefings about the bombing given by Muscat and Delia, who called the reporter's slaying a "political murder." Muscat said he has asked the U.S. government and the FBI for help investigating the car bombing. Caruana Galizia is survived by her husband and three sons. One son, Matthew, was on the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team that won the Pulitzer Prize for its work on the Panama Papers scandal. The leak exposed the identities of rich and powerful people around the world who allegedly had offshore holdings in Panama. Caruana Galizia's family has asked the Courts of Malta to replace the magistrate assigned to conduct the inquiry into the journalist's death. The family said the magistrate, Consuelo Scerri Herrera, "in her personal capacity, had launched judicial procedures against (Caruana Galizia) regarding comments she had written." Caruana Galizia for many years was a harsh critic of Malta's Labor party and government. More recently she had expanded her criticism to include the opposition Nationalist Party. Her slaying drew swift denunciations in the tiny EU nation. "Daphne played a vitally important role in unearthing serious allegations of money laundering and corruption in Malta, including those involving senior figures in the Maltese government," said Sven Giegold, a Greens member in the European Parliament. Italian newsweekly L'Espresso, which has also written about alleged corruption linked to Malta, said the reporter's murder demonstrated that a well-documented expose' "is perceived as a danger by the powerful and by organized crime." European Parliament President Antonio Tajani in a tweet called the development a "tragic example of a journalist who sacrificed her life to search for the truth." Strasbourg, France: Europe's top human rights court ruled on Tuesday that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's conviction for fraud in 2014 had been "arbitrary and manifestly unreasonable" and ordered Russia to pay him compensation. "We have won. Thanks everyone for support," tweeted Navalny, a campaigner against corruption among Russia's elite who hopes to run against Vladimir Putin in a March election. Putin is widely expected to seek and win a fourth term as president. "We proved that this case was a fabricated one, and that this ugly buffoonery in the court room in 2014 had nothing to do with a fair legal proceeding," Navalny wrote on his website, www.navalny.com, after the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) announced its ruling. A suspended jail sentence in a separate case -- which Navalny says was politically motivated -- may still bar him from running for president. The Strasbourg-based ECHR said Navalny and his brother Oleg's convictions for fraud and money laundering were based on an unforeseeable application of criminal law and that the proceedings were arbitrary and unfair. "I am glad that justice was done," Navalny wrote. He said the case against him had been staged to thwart his anti-corruption and political activities through the pressure put on him and his family. "When thieves and swindlers in power declare that I cannot run (for president) because of 'the law', 'the sentence', because (I am) 'a criminal' and 'recidivist', we can show them with confidence what they will never have -- a decision by a true, fair court," he wrote. "It is clearly written there that the law and the right are on our side. It's them who are criminals, not me." Navalny and his brother were convicted in December 2014 of money laundering and defrauding their business partners. Navalny was given a suspended sentence of 3-1/2 years and his brother a prison sentence of the same length. The Navalnys lodged a complaint with the ECHR in January 2015. The ECHR ruled that Russia must pay Navalny and his brother 10,000 euros ($12,000) each for non-pecuniary damage, plus costs and expenses of 45,000 euros for Alexei and 10,971 euros and 460,000 roubles ($8,000) for Oleg. In another case which Navalny says was a Kremlin attempt to prevent him standing for election, a Russian court in February found him guilty of embezzlement in relation to a timber firm called Kirovles and gave him a five-year suspended sentence. It was the second time the case had been heard, after the ECHR said Navalny's right to a fair hearing had been violated and ordered a retrial. Madrid: Spain moved closer on Monday to imposing central rule over Catalonia to thwart its independence push as Madrid's High Court signalled a hardening line by jailing the leaders of two of the largest separatist organisations. In the first imprisonment of senior secessionist figures since Catalonia's October 1 independence referendum, the court ordered the heads of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium held without bail pending an investigation for alleged sedition. Prosecutors say that the ANC's Jordi Sanchez and Omnium's Jordi Cuixart played central roles in orchestrating pro-independence protests that last month trapped national police inside a Barcelona building and destroyed their vehicles. Around 200 people flocked to the Catalan government's headquarters in Barcelona in a peaceful show of support for both men, with some chanting "Freedom" and waving "Democracy" banners. The ANC, which has organised protests of hundreds of thousands of secessionists in the past, called for further peaceful demonstrations around Catalonia on Tuesday. Catalan regional President Carles Puigdemont commented on Twitter: "Spain jails Catalonia's civil society leaders for organising peaceful demonstrations. Sadly, we have political prisoners again" -- an allusion to Spain's military dictatorship under Francisco Franco. The High Court also banned the Catalan police chief, Josep Lluis Trapero, from leaving Spain and seized his passport while he is being investigated over the same incident, though it did not order his arrest. Last Tuesday, Puigdemont stepped back from asking the Catalan parliament to vote on independence, instead making a symbolic declaration and calling for negotiations on the region's future. In a confrontation viewed with mounting alarm in European capitals and financial markets, Puigdemont failed on Monday to respond to Madrid's ultimatum to clarify whether he had declared unilateral independence in a speech last week. He now has until Thursday to back down. In a letter to Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, Puigdemont gave no direct answer on the independence issue, instead making a "sincere and honest" offer for dialogue over the next two months. In reply, Rajoy said Puigdemont's stance had brought Madrid closer to triggering Article 155 of the constitution, under which it can impose direct rule on any of the country's 17 autonomous communities if they break the law. The Catalan government's campaign to break away from Spain has pitched the country into its worst political crisis since an abortive coup attempt in 1981. On Monday the economy ministry told the EU that it had slashed its economic growth forecasts for next year partly due to the situation. The Catalan government says 90 percent of voters in the referendum backed a breakaway, but turnout was only 43 percent as most opponents of independence in the region boycotted the vote, already declared illegal by Spain's Constitutional Court. Thousands have demonstrated in Barcelona and other Spanish cities both for and against independence. So far the crisis has been largely violence-free, except for the day of the referendum when national police assaulted voters with batons and rubber bullets. The High Court ruled that Trapero, the Catalan police chief, would have his passport withdrawn but rejected a request from the state prosecutor for him to be held in custody. Trapero is a hero to the secessionists after his force took a much softer stance than national police in enforcing the ban on the referendum. Prosecutors say he failed to give orders to rescue national police trapped inside the Barcelona building. TALK TO ME, PUIGDEMONT SAYS Puigdemont last Tuesday delayed by several weeks a formal declaration of independence from Spain to allow for talks. Madrid has ruled out talks unless Puigdemont gives up the independence demand. It had given him until 10 a.m. (0800 GMT) on Monday to clarify his position with a "Yes" or "No", and until Thursday to change his mind if he insisted on a split. Following his failure to do so, a regional broadcaster said he also planned to ignore a final deadline on Thursday. Suggesting that Puigdemont and his team were in no mood to follow Rajoy's game plan, Catalan interior minister Joaquim Forn said Article 155 would not allow Madrid to remove members of the Catalan government. The article's terms on direct rule, which has never been applied, are vague. It says Madrid can "adopt any measure" to force a region to meet its constitutional obligations, with the approval of Spain's lower house. The wording suggests this could include anything from taking control of regional police and finances to installing a new governing team or calling a snap election. Underlining the deepening crisis, some of the largest companies in prosperous Catalonia, which accounts for a fifth of the Spanish economy, have already shifted head offices elsewhere and others are likely to follow if Puigdemont declares outright independence. Investors say a political split could undermine the economic rebound in Spain, the euro zone's fourth-largest economy. Kabul: The death toll in a suicide and gun attack on police in southeast Afghanistan has risen to 32 with more than 200 wounded, an official said, in the latest deadly violence to hit the country. In southern Ghazni province, the insurgents stormed a security compound, using a suicide car. Provincial chief police, Mohammad Zaman, says the attack in Andar district early on Tuesday morning triggered several hours of heavy fighting until the attackers were repelled. Zaman says the district compound has been destroyed. In western Farah province, police chief Abdul Maruf Fulad says the Taliban attacked a government compound in Shibkho district. The Interior Ministry says a militant attack, including a suicide car bombing is underway in eastern Paktia province's capital, Gardez, where insurgents targeted a police training center. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for all three attacks. Brussels: British Prime Minister Theresa May and European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker agreed over dinner in Brussels on Monday that the pace of negotiations over Britain's departure from the European Union should be stepped up. A joint statement described a "constructive and friendly" two-hour meeting, during which they "reviewed the progress made in the Article 50 negotiations so far and agreed that these efforts should accelerate over the months to come". Announced less than 24 hours before they sat down, accompanied by their chief Brexit negotiators, David Davis and Michel Barnier, and just three days before May returns to Brussels for an EU summit, the meeting was held well away from reporters. Officials offered no immediate detail on the substance beyond the six-sentence communique. Both sides have been calling for a faster pace of talks as time ticks down to Britain's withdrawal from the EU in March 2019 and businesses warn that without clarity on what happens after that they may start switching investments early next year. The joint statement gave little else away, making no reference to the mutual blame game in which London and Brussels accuse each other of creating deadlock: May by failing to detail how much she is willing to pay to settle divorce obligations, the EU by sticking rigidly to a refusal to so much as talk about a future trade deal and transition to that until she does so. Wary that the prime minister, beset by feuds in her cabinet over a softer or harder break with the EU, might try to divide the other 27 states, some EU diplomats voiced concern she met Juncker and Barnier before meeting the other national leaders. Barnier has, diplomats say, suggested accelerating talks by starting internal EU discussions on a transition period in which Britain would stay in the single market. His idea hit resistance from heavyweights Germany and France, though the 27 now seem set to agree this gesture in an EU statement to be issued on Friday. A revised text circulated by summit chair Donald Tusk to EU governments on Monday retained wording that offers Britain the chance of talks on a transition to a future relationship almost immediately after the next EU summit in December. But at German and French insistence, it stressed the need for London to meet a series of key demands from the Union, notably on money it owes. May's spokesman, when asked before the meeting whether she would give more detail on Britain's financial offer, indicated she would not. That left some wondering what the point was. "It will either be a very expensive dinner, costing about 30 billion euros, or else -- what is this?" one EU diplomat said. Washington: President Donald Trump will travel to Japan, South Korea, China, and east Asian nations next month to underscore his commitment to longstanding American alliances and partnerships, the White House said on Monday. The November 3-14 tour would be Trump's maiden trip to the region as president. "The president's travel will underscore his commitment to longstanding United States alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. Leaving White House on November 3 and with a stopover in Hawaii, Trump will commence his visit to Asia beginning with Japan on November 5. While in Japan, Trump will meet with American and Japanese service members, and participate in bilateral meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who will also host him for a meeting with the families of Japanese citizens abducted by the North Korean regime, Sanders said. During his visit to South Korea on November 7, Trump will participate in a bilateral meeting with President Moon Jae-in and visit American and South Korean service members. He will speak at the National Assembly, where he will celebrate the enduring alliance and friendship between the US and the Republic of Korea, and call on the international community to join together in maximising pressure on North Korea. "On November 8, President Trump will arrive in Beijing, China for a series of bilateral, commercial, and cultural events, including meetings with President Xi Jinping," Sanders said, adding that Trump will then travel to Danang, Vietnam, on November 10. There, he will participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting and deliver a speech at the APEC CEO Summit. "In the speech, the president will present the United States' vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing America's economic prosperity," Sanders said. On November 11, Trump will travel to Hanoi, for an official visit and bilateral engagements with President Tran Dai Quang and other senior Vietnamese leaders. Trump will arrive in Manila, on November 12 to participate in the Special Gala Celebration Dinner for the 50th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). On November 13, the US president will celebrate the 40th anniversary of US-ASEAN relations at the US-ASEAN Summit and participate in bilateral meetings with President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines and other leaders, said the presidential spokesperson. Raqqa, Syria: US-backed forces said Tuesday they had taken full control of Raqqa from the Islamic State group, defeating the last jihadist holdouts in the de facto Syrian capital of their now-shattered "caliphate". The Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Forces, who have been fighting inside the northern city since they broke in on June 6, flushed the few hundred IS fighters left in the city from their last positions in the main hospital and the national stadium. "Everything is finished in Raqqa, our forces have taken full control of Raqqa," the alliance's spokesman Talal Sello told AFP. He said the SDF was combing the city for any remaining jihadists who had not surrendered or been killed, and added that a major mine-clearing operation was already under way. "The military operations in Raqqa have finished, but there are clearing operations now under way to uncover any sleeper cells there might be and remove mines," Sello said added. The announcement came just days after the SDF said it was launching the final phase of its operation to retake the city. There had been fears that the US-backed force could get bogged down in a protracted battle for the last 10 percent of the city where the jihadists had prepared for a last stand. The SDF said the fighting was fierce Tuesday around the hospital and stadium, but their recapture was declared in quick succession, effectively ending IS's more than three-year military presence in the city. Sello said an official statement announcing "the liberation of the city" would be made soon. The anti-IS advance saw the recapture on Monday of the infamous Al-Naim traffic circle, which residents dubbed the "Roundabout of Hell" because the jihadists used it for public beheadings and crucifixions. 'IS collapsing' As the sun was setting over Raqqa's west Monday, a group of fighters gathered for the dabkeh -- the jumpy line dance traditional in the Middle East -- to celebrate their native city's near-recapture. Three months after Iraqi forces retook Iraq's Mosul, the largest city the jihadist group controlled, the loss of Raqqa will be another nail in the coffin for IS's brutal experiment in statehood. The breakthrough in the operation to retake Raqqa, which was launched on June 6, came after a deal was struck allowing the evacuation in recent days of civilians who had been held as human shields. Under the deal, a total of 275 Syrian IS fighters and relatives also surrendered to the SDF, though it was unclear whether they would be given safe passage elsewhere. After IS captured Raqqa in 2014, the city become synonymous with the jihadist group's worst abuses and was transformed into a planning centre for attacks abroad. The jihadists also suffered setbacks Tuesday in the eastern Syrian region of Deir Ezzor, where Russian-backed regime forces retook swathes of territory, further reducing a "caliphate" that three years ago was roughly the size of Britain. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights that regime forces had brought the entire area stretching between Deir Ezzor and Mayadeen, which was retaken on Saturday, under their control following a major military offensive. "These are not desert areas, they are villages along the Euphrates (river) that were IS strongholds," the Britain-based monitoring group said. "The Islamic State group is collapsing under pressure from the regime in Deir Ezzor province," it said. IS also controls territory in neighbouring regions on the Iraqi side of the border, where they are facing another US-backed offensive by Iraqi pro-government forces. One of the two women killed in the blast was pregnant, officials said. Two children, aged 12 and 3, were among eight others injured in the accident that occurred between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. in Ejipura area. (Image: AP) A view of fireworks at Madan Mohan Malviya Stadium decorated with candles and lamps on the occasion of Deepawali festival in Allahabad. (Image: PTI) New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being explained about the first ever All India Institute of Ayurveda after it was dedicated to the nation on the occasion of 2nd Ayurveda Day, in New Delhi on Tuesday. Minister of State for AYUSH (Independent Charge), Shripad Yesso Naik is also seen. (Image: PTI) The city of Raqqa has been liberated and the military operations have ended, but we are mopping up the city in search of sleeper cells if (they) existed," he said. (Image: AP) U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine used the phrase very suspicious circumstances Monday to describe how a federal agency announced it had approved two deeply controversial natural gas pipelines that will burrow through different regions of Virginia. Kaine, a Democrat who was in Roanoke on Monday, observed that notices from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission about the commissions endorsement of the Mountain Valley Pipeline and Atlantic Coast Pipeline were distributed after 7 p.m. Friday timing clearly intended, he said, to inhibit news coverage going into the weekend. When somebody puts something out at 7 oclock Friday night, theyre trying to hide it, Kaine said. That means theyre ashamed of their decision. Why would they be ashamed of it? He said the orders granting certificates of public convenience and necessity to the multi-billion dollar projects were issued when there were only three commissioners on FERCs five-person panel. Clearly, they were trying to rush it without a full complement on the team, Kaine said, adding that he believes decisions of this magnitude ought to require the participation of all five commissioners. The senator noted too that a vigorous and stinging dissent by Commissioner Cheryl LaFleur was significant, partly because such dissents rarely occur on the commission, he said. LaFleur, a Democrat who has been a commissioner since 2010, wrote, I cannot conclude that either of these projects as proposed is in the public interest. The two commissioners who voted to approve the pipelines are both Republicans appointed by President Donald Trump who recently joined the commission. Kaine said the timing of the public notice, the orders granted in an apparent hurry by two members of a three-person commission and LaFleurs dissent all led him to conclude that their reasoning is probably pretty weak. Other politicians and political candidates reacted Monday to FERCs certification of the two massive infrastructure projects. Each of the 42-inch diameter interstate pipelines would transport natural gas that has been extracted by hydraulic fracturing in the Appalachian Basin. FERCs orders effectively grant each project the power of eminent domain to acquire easements across private properties, a reality that has helped stir opposition. The Mountain Valley Pipeline, which has the most significance for Southwest Virginia, would travel 303 miles from Wetzel County, West Virginia, to the Transco pipeline near Chatham. Its route would cross 11 counties in West Virginia and six counties in Virginia: Giles, Montgomery, Craig, Roanoke, Franklin and Pittsylvania. Gov. Terry McAuliffe was an enthusiastic cheerleader early on for the Dominion Energy-backed Atlantic Coast Pipeline. He later voiced support also for the Mountain Valley project. Brian Coy, a McAuliffe spokesman, emailed a statement about the FERC certification. The Governor supports the proposed pipeline projects as significant economic development opportunities for Virginia, Coy said. As the review process moves forward, he remains committed to seeing that the projects follow the most environmentally-protective approach possible, in full accordance with the standards set by the federal and state agencies reviewing them. Questions about the projects have arisen frequently during the gubernatorial campaigns of Republican Ed Gillespie and Democrat Ralph Northam. Gillespie, who has expressed support for the pipelines, has tried to push Northam into taking a clear stance pro or con. On Friday, Gillespie celebrated FERCs decision to approve the two projects, saying they will provide critically important infrastructure to serve Virginias growing energy needs. On Monday, a spokeswoman for Northams campaign responded to a request for comment by referencing a previous reaction from the candidate that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality still need to sign off on the pipelines. Actually, DEQ will make recommendations to the State Water Control Board about whether to grant Clean Water Act water quality certification to either or both projects. That is scheduled to happen in December. Cliff Hyra, a Libertarian candidate for governor, said FERC has green-lighted the seizure of thousands of acres of privately-owned Virginia land for the two joint ventures building the pipelines. He said the commissions orders highlight the urgent need for legislation to curb eminent domain at the federal level. DEQs role was mentioned Monday by two regional delegates who have expressed opposition to the Mountain Valley Pipeline, Del. Sam Rasoul, D-Roanoke, and Del Joseph Yost, R-Pearisburg. I could not be more disappointed with FERCs decision to approve the taking of public property from Virginia landowners, for the wealth of a few, Rasoul said. There is no clear evidence that the Mountain Valley Pipeline is in the publics interest. This is land stolen and our water compromised for greed. Yost offered similar comments. The Mountain Valley Pipeline represents an assault on our cultural and natural resources as well as our property rights, he said. I was extremely disappointed to learn of FERCs approval of the project but remain optimistic that either through litigation or the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, we still have the chance to protect our area from the impacts of this project. Kaine also noted that other agencies have not yet announced recommendations or decisions about the pipelines. In addition to DEQ, they include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. If you do not like this decision there are other agencies that still have to weigh in, he said. If you are active about this, please do not stop your activism. Please let these other agencies know what you think about it. U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith, R-Salem, and Rep. Bob Goodlatte, R-Roanoke County, reacted Monday to the certification. I still have concerns with the Mountain Valley Pipeline pathway and as we move forward, I hope these concerns can be addressed, Griffith said. I would have hoped that all concerns would have been resolved before FERC certified the project but action by the Virginia DEQ is still anticipated and obviously there will be additional court cases. FERC has completed its review and deemed that these projects may continue, Goodlatte said. There are many steps ahead before construction can begin, and my office will monitor the process to ensure that this is done in a responsible manner and continue to serve as a liaison with the federal government for those impacted. Meanwhile, local government officials in affected counties must wrestle now with how to proceed. Boards of supervisors in Giles, Craig, Montgomery and Roanoke counties have expressed opposition to the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Roanoke Countys board of supervisors announced it will hold a special meeting Tuesday to hear what its legal options are now that FERC has certified the project. The county has official status as an intervenor. Tamara Young-Allen, a FERC spokeswoman, noted in an email Monday that only the intervenors to a proceeding may submit to the Commission petitions for rehearing (or appeals) of Commission actions. The petitions must be submitted within 30 days of the issuance of the order. Critics of FERC contend that its rehearing process favors pipeline companies because construction can begin long before a rehearing occurs due to something called a tolling order. Young-Allen said the commission must respond to a petition seeking a rehearing within 30 days. But she added that if the commission needs more time to consider the arguments raised in the petition, it will issue a tolling order to stop, indefinitely, the 30-day clock for issuance of an Order on Rehearing. After that, an Order on Rehearing may issue at any time. She said applying for a rehearing does not in itself stay a commission order. A project approved by FERC can still move forward once other permits and authorizations are received and other pre-construction conditions are met. Staff writers Matt Chittum and Carmen Forman contributed to this report. A national bond-rating agency says Virginia could return to a stable outlook for state budget revenues if it builds its reserves and stops tapping its rainy day fund in sunny weather. S&P Global said this month that it will maintain the negative outlook it adopted six months ago on Virginias financial status but suggested the state can change the agencys mind with the right budget behavior. If the commonwealth were to end the (budget) biennium with stronger-than-projected reserves and demonstrate sustainable, structural balance, we could revise the outlook back to stable, the agency said in a new report on Oct. 2. For the administration of Gov. Terry McAuliffe and the General Assemblys budget committees, that means doing more to build a new cash reserve in the two-year budget the governor will introduce in December and the legislature will act upon in its upcoming 60-day session. They are looking at what we do with the cash reserve, Secretary of Finance Richard D. Ric Brown told the House Appropriations Committee on Monday during an update on state revenues and a visit last month by all three national bond-rating agencies. Appropriations Chairman S. Chris Jones, R-Suffolk, already has laid down a marker for legislators with legislation he has promised to introduce in January that would commit the state to building a reserve of at least $380 million, or 2 percent of the $19 billion general fund budget. Were intending to do those things, Jones said in an interview in response to the latest S&P letter. The letter, coming weeks after a two-day visit by S&P, Fitch and Moodys bond-rating analysts, reaffirmed Virginias ratings of AAA for general obligation bonds, AA+ for school financing bonds, and AA for moral obligation debt. However, S&P credit analyst Carol H. Spain repeated the warnings the agency issued in April about Virginias over-reliance on the revenue stabilization, or rainy day, fund in two of the past three years despite the national recovery from recession. The state made a constitutionally required payment of $605 million to the fund in the fiscal year that ended June 30, but the budget for this fiscal year will rely again on a withdrawal of $272.5 million from the fund. The negative outlook reflects the commonwealths recent trend of structural imbalance and projected lower reserve balances, Spain wrote. The planned use of the revenue stabilization fund is out of step with the current economic cycle and a reversal of its past practices of building reserves during periods of economic growth. In our opinion, lower reserves could weaken its ability to respond to economic and financial downturns and be an indication of weaker credit quality, she added. Managements ability to adjust to changes in the commonwealths economy, whether through revisions to forecasts or sustainable budget adjustments, will be critical to maintenance of the rating. McAuliffe and assembly budget leaders agreed this year to establish a new cash reserve fund with at least $35 million expected to be collected through a new tax amnesty program the state launched recently. The budget predicts as much as $90 million in additional revenues from the amnesty collection of past due taxes, while requiring any excess funds to be deposited in the new reserve. In August, the governor proposed, as Jones and other assembly leaders had urged, to put an estimated $121.5 million in excess revenues from the last fiscal year into the new fund, which will boost its balance above $155 million without the additional money expected from the amnesty. The target of $380 million is based in part on the constitutional prohibition on withdrawing money from the rainy day fund unless revenues fall short of projections by more than 2 percent. The new reserve would give the state a backup fund in case revenues fall short by less than that threshold, said Robert P. Vaughn, staff director of the appropriations committee. Virginias revenue outlook continues to improve in this fiscal year, after ending the last one with an additional $136.5 million. The states general fund revenues grew by 5.5 percent in September compared with the same month a year ago, even though there was one less payroll deposit day this year. Consequently, the states total revenues grew 4.1 percent in the first three months of the fiscal year, which puts collections ahead of the annual forecast of 2.7 percent growth assumed in the budget adopted earlier this year. However, Brown cautioned legislators about impending budget pressures such as the scheduled withdrawal from the rainy day fund and spending updates for K-12 education and Medicaid that are likely to cost hundreds of millions of dollars in the next two years. He also cited uncertainty over tax reforms proposed by President Donald Trump and potential threats to federal spending that is crucial to Virginias economy as the Republican president and Congress face a deadline in early December for adopting a federal budget or facing automatic spending cuts through sequestration. Sequestration is still the law of the land, he said. Del. Jimmie Massie, R-Henrico, who will retire in January, said the Democratic McAuliffe administration should not assume that proposed tax cuts would hurt Virginias economy. The risk of tax reform is a positive risk, not a negative risk, Massie said. However, Jones reminded him that boom times can turn bust, as they did at the turn of the millennium, and are not sustainable. For the bond-rating agencies, Brown said the biggest questions raised during their September visit involved state over-reliance on the rainy day fund and the potential effects of a then-pending proposal by Republicans in the U.S. Senate that would have capped federal funding to states for Medicaid. That bill would have ended Medicaid as we know it, he said. Jones and other Republican leaders in the assembly had voiced similar concerns over previous attempts by congressional Republicans to repeal the Affordable Care Act and convert Medicaid into a per-capita block grant program they feared would shift huge costs to the states. The Affordable Care Act survived, although state officials are braced for the potential loss of federal funding for the childrens health insurance program that would end health coverage for 66,000 children and 1,100 pregnant women by the end of January. The state expects to notify program participants of terminated coverage by Dec. 1 unless Congress acts to reauthorize funding. Virginia Medicaid Director Cindi B. Jones also briefed the committee on different options to pay for expanding coverage of services for people with serious mental illnesses, but she also reminded legislators that the state is losing $2 billion a year in federal funding by refusing to expand Medicaid under the health care law signed by President Barack Obama in 2010. Jones estimated that Virginia would save $138 million in the next two years by expanding Medicaid, which would allow federal funding to supplant state general fund revenues for community mental health services, as well as hospital care for uninsured people and state prison inmates. Politics aside, when youre looking for money, that is still one big option, she said. Members of the committee responded with silence. THE National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ)s $400 million deal with a consortium led by the Diaspora Infrastructure Development Group (DIDG) and South Africas Transnet is now back on the rails after Cabinet gave a nod to the proposed tie-up. Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Dr Joram Gumbo confirmed the new development last night. It ultimately leads to the last leg of negotiations before the deal takes off. Yes, I can confirm that Cabinet has agreed to the investment (by DIDG/Transnet). We will soon be meeting with the investor to tie up the nitty-gritties. I am very happy about this development because the investors have a lot of resources they want to pour into the project to make it successful, and this includes reviving NRZs passenger and freight business. So, after concluding the negotiations, the first phase will begin in earnest, said Dr Gumbo. DIDG/Transnet was recently announced as the preferred investor out of 85 companies that were interested in investing in the countrys sole rail company. The Herald gathered recently that South African banks Standard Bank, Nedbank, Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) and the Industrial Development Corporation (SA) have put up funding letters worth $1,2 billion for the project, of which $400 million is earmarked for initial investment in capital expenditure. But the deal seemed to have run into some hurdles recently after questions were raised on the competence of Transnet to ably invest in the project. However, it later emerged that much of the details and clarifications sought had in fact been submitted and evaluated during a process that involved the State Procurement Board (SPB), the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), Sera (State Enterprises Restructuring Agency), the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development and the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development, among other Government agencies and departments. DIDG/Transnet emerged as a winning bidder from five other companies China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation; Crowe Howath Welsa; Croyeaux (Pvt) Limited; Sinohydro Corporation Limited; Smh Rail Sdn Malaysia that had been shortlisted for the deal. In the initial stages, 82 companies submitted bids for the parastatal. Essentially, the DIDG/Transnet has an ambitious three-year strategy that is premised on buying new locomotive and wagons and revamping operational efficiencies. From the $400 million capital expenditure, $150 million will be earmarked for 24 mainline locomotives and 13 rail shunters or shunting locomotives. Twenty locomotives that are part of the current fleet are expected to be refurbished. Similarly, NRZ plans to acquire 1000 new wagons and refurbish 700 that it presently has. It is also envisaged that more than $100 million will be invested in modernising and refurbishing the State enterprises train control and signalling system. Johannesburg-headquartered Transnet is a state-owned enterprise that has interests in rail, ports and pipelines. Employing more than 49 000 workers, Transnet held more than $27 billion in assets by March 31, 2017 and generated more than $5 billion in revenues during the same period. Herald ABOUT 10 percent of Zimbabwean workers take time off due to depression, a common mental disorder, statistics show. The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines depression as a mental disorder, characterised by loss of interest in activities that you normally enjoy, accompanied by an inability to carry out daily activities. WHO says it is also the leading cause of disability in the world. In a statement, Ministry of Health and Child Care said about 70 percent of people with mental illness actively conceal their condition from others, mainly because they fear discrimination when looking for a job. One in five people in the workplace experience a mental health condition and 10 percent of the employed population have taken time off work due to depression. An average of 36 workdays are lost per depression episode and half of those who suffer depression are untreated, reads the statement. According to the Ministry, depression in the workplace is caused by lack of autonomy, reduced job resources, low job resources and low job satisfaction. Many studies document high prevalence of stress in the workplace in the form of high workload and complexity, time pressures and work conflicts. Employers can appreciate workers and policies and practices that promote and support employee health wellness as part of the solution, the statement added. Recently, the Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Aldrin Musiiwa, said Government was working to provide mental patients with drugs and the needed necessary services. Herald Local authorities in the Midlands Province have heeded President Mugabes call to move vendors operating on the streets from the central business district (CBD) to pave way for the free flow of human and vehicular traffic. Councils in the province have since deployed municipal police on the streets to ensure vendors comply with the directive. Kwekwe Mayor Councillor Matenda Madzoke yesterday said vendors operating on the streets were becoming a menace and the call by Mugabe should be taken seriously to end the chaos. We have taken heed of President Mugabes call to bring back sanity to the CBD and as Kwekwe City we have started moving vendors to their designated points. We were losing sleep over vendors, but the President has assisted us a lot since relevant arms of Government are now assisting us in the process to bring order to our city, he said. Gweru City Council has given vendors up to the end of this month to clear the streets. In a statement, the town clerk, Ms Elizabeth Gwatipedza, said the council would start confiscating goods from vendors who defied the directive. Council will confiscate goods that are being sold on illegal vending points without further notice. No push carts are allowed in the Central Business District (CBD), including vehicles selling goods at undesignated areas. All illegal vendors who are trading on the streets of Gweru and need legal trading space should apply to council and should move out of the streets by 22 October 2017, she said. Last month, Government bemoaned the increase of people vending in the city centres of most municipalities. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and National Housing, Engineer George Mlilo is on record as saying the situation in most cities and towns was scaring away potential investors. herald President Robert Mugabe has arrived in Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay where he is expected to join other world leaders for the World Health Organisation global conference on non-communicable diseases. His wife, Grace did not fancy travelling to Uruguay. Instead she opted to head to Sochi, Russia where she can shop till she drops. President Mugabe, who is accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Walter Mzembi, Health and Child Care Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa, Presidential spokesperson Mr George Charamba and some senior government officials, arrived at the Carasco airbase in Montevideo this Tuesday morning. The Conference will be held in three segments commencing with the Dialogue of Member States, United Nations agencies, and non-State actors. The second segment will be for ministers from Member States and United Nations Organisations and National Non-Communicable Diseases Directors. Finally, there will be a High-level Segment for Member States and United Nations Organisations at the level of Heads of State and Government and Heads of UN organisations. PRESIDENT Mugabe left the country yesterday for Uruguay where he will join other Heads of State and Government attending the World Health Organisation (WHO) conference on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). The conference is running under the theme Enhancing policy coherence between different spheres of policy making that have a bearing on attaining Strategic Development Goal target 3.4 on NCD by 2030. SDG 3.4 by 2030 seeks to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one-third through prevention and treatment and promoting mental health and wellbeing. The conference seeks to provide guidance to member states on how to reach SDG target 3.4 by 2030 by influencing public policies in sectors beyond health and enhancing policy coherence. It also seeks to launch a set of new global initiatives to help countries accelerate progress in reducing premature mortality from NCDs and to fast-track efforts to attain SDG target 3.4. The meeting will also see delegates exchanging national experiences in enhancing policy coherence to attain the voluntary global NCD targets for 2025. The conference will also highlight the health sector as the key advocate for enhancing coherence for the attainment of SDG target 3.4. Also expected to attend the conference are Ministers of health, agriculture, development cooperation, finance and foreign Affairs. The United Nations organisations, public policy decision makers, global experts and advocates and non-state actors will also attend the conference. The conference is made up of three segments the dialogue of member states, UN organisations and non-state actors; the ministerial segment for member states and UN organisations at the level of Ministers and national NCD directors; and a high-level segment for member states and UN organisations at the level of Heads of State and Government and Heads of UN organisations. The conference is being held at a time the world is burdened by NCDs like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and chronic respiratory ailments. NCD killed 40 million globally in 2015, which represented 70 percent of all deaths worldwide. Zimbabwe has not been spared from the burden of NCDs like cancer and diabetes. Some interest groups are now proposing the establishment of a cancer levy to help raise resources to deal with the disease. The conference will come up with a document that is expected to be endorsed by participants. The outcome document is also expected to serve as an input into the discussions at the 71st World Health Assembly on the preparations for the third High-level Meeting of the United General Assembly on NCDs in 2018. Herald As Zanu PFs succession wars reach a deadly climax, former State Security minister, Didymus Mutasa who was for decades one of President Robert Mugabes closest confidants has warned that things could end very badly for his longtime boss, the ruling party and the country as a whole if they are not carefully managed. Speaking to the Daily News yesterday, Mutasa said he was so worried about the former liberation movements worsening infighting that he had for some time now been trying to get in touch with Mugabe to warn him over the looming disaster in the country over the succession debacle. Mutasa was sacked from Zanu PF together with former Vice President Joice Mujuru and other liberation stalwarts, in the run-up to the partys hotly-disputed 2014 congress, on untested charges of plotting to unseat Mugabe. His warning comes as Zanu PF is planning to hold a special congress in December, whose main agenda appears to be the further sidelining and demolition of under-fire Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his allies as the factional quest to determine Mugabes succession reaches a tipping point. I have tried to phone him with little success. His phone is just ringing and not being answered, but I will keep on trying. We dont want this worsening chaos. We need to sit down and come up with a way forward for the country, not these dangerous fights. As it is, things could end very badly for everyone, Mutasa warned. Indeed, it is very disturbing for me as someone who was in Zanu PF to see the party imploding like this, and we cannot let this party go that route. I would like to speak to the old man. Zanu PF used to be run very smoothly from 2004 to 2014. Now, it is war everywhere while the people of Zimbabwe are suffering, he added With Zanu PF divided right in the middle over the partys unresolved succession riddle, the factional feuds took an ominous turn in August when Mnangagwa fell sick during an interface rally in Gwanda which his backers said was allegedly a poison attack by his G40 enemies. The Midlands godfather was later airlifted to South Africa where he received emergency surgery. He subsequently issued a statement denying that his illness was caused by ice cream from the First Familys Gushungo Dairies, although he has consistently suggested that he was poisoned. Recently, Mnangagwa again suggested to hordes of his supporters who had converged at Mupandawana Growth Point in Gutu, for the late Masvingo Provincial Affairs minister Shuvai Mahofas memorial service, that he was poisoned in the same way Mahofa was in 2015. In the current wars, the Lacoste group is backing Mnangagwa to succeed Mugabe, while the G40 is bitterly opposed to his mooted higher ambitions. Mugabe has consistently refused to name a successor, arguing that it is Zanu PF that must decide this issue through a congress when the time comes. The ruling party last held its congress in Harare three years ago, where it sacked Mujuru and several other senior officials who included Mutasa over the untested allegations of plotting to unseat Mugabe. At the weekend, all provinces approved the plan to have a special congress which will see Zanu PF amending its constitution to pave the way for executive changes at the December indaba. There are also moves to amend Zanu PFs constitution to re-introduce a clause to have a woman in the partys presidium, which was originally presented as a womens league resolution at the annual conference that was held in Victoria Falls in December 2015. Both insiders and political analysts agree that the move is a transparent plot to stymie Mnangagwas presidential prospects, and to possibly replace him immediately as VP with Grace. Mutasa also told the Daily News yesterday that he pities Mnangagwa, whom he accused of giving Mugabe unfettered powers and creating a one-centre of power in 2014 when the Zanu PF constitution was amended to effect the current status quo. I was with him (Mnangagwa) while we were in prison during the countrys liberation war. I used to feed him with bread that was brought by my wife. The two of us come a long way. We have common friends who told him that what he was doing, denouncing fellow comrades, was wrong. But I will not celebrate what he is going through now because it is not in my nature to see people suffering, the seemingly pained Mutasa said. The former Speaker of Parliament, also said Mnangagwa was politically vulnerable and could soon suffer the same fate that befell Mujuru and other party bigwigs in 2014. Mnangagwa can be fired just as we were ... He is the one who created the one-centre of power that is now haunting him. Yes, Mnangagwa might be supported by some army generals, but certainly not by everyone, Mutasa added. Still, he was very worried that if the succession issue was not managed carefully, it could spawn serious problems. With Zanu PF hurtling towards the crunch congress that could seal the fate of Mnangagwa, Mutasa said he would continue trying to reach out to Mugabe, to find a peaceful solution to the partys raging factional fights. But he made it clear that in seeking an audience with Mugabe, he was not doing this to discuss his own welfare. No, not at all. This is despite the fact that Mutasa has hit hard times over the past year, and is said to be drowning in debts. Before his fallout with Mujuru, Mutasa was said to have tried to enlist the services of a cleric seen as close to Mugabe Father Fidelis Mukonori of the Roman Catholic Church to help him to talk to the president and let Mugabe see that he was destroying his own legacy. At that time, Mutasa was the convener of the National Electoral Reform Agenda (Nera) a grouping of 19 opposition parties pressing for electoral reforms before the 2018 harmonised polls. Leaked WikiLeaks cables cite Mukonoris ties with Mugabe and other senior Zanu PF figures as going back to the days of the liberation struggle in the 1970s. He is said to have been involved in brokering an end to the Zanu-Zapu conflict in the early 1980s, and was deeply involved in putting together the two parties subsequent Unity Accord in 1987. daily news Zviripai Zimbabweans who have fled economic hardship and political problems to fend for their families in South Africa have lost interest in the affairs of their country. They did not care who was sacked by President Robert Mugabe or who was appointed to his newly reshuffled Cabinet, saying their countrys woes required economic policies that would ease the hardships faced by their families back home. Zimbabwean Chenjerai-Patson Muzvidziwa said: I am sick and tired of the Zimbabwean question. What matters now for my wife and me is how to ensure that our children go to school and get them food, clothes and proper healthcare. "Otherwise, the issue of who is reshuffled, expelled or appointed in Zimbabwe is no longer any of my business. Muzvidziwa said he used to follow developments back home with keen interest in 2008, when South Africas then president Thabo Mbeki attempted to mediate in the Zimbabwean crisis. At the time, Mbekis efforts led to the September 2008 government of national unity between Mugabe and his arch-rival, Morgan Tsvangirai, of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) party. Although it was short-lived, the settlement temporarily boosted Zimbabwes economic stability with new investments. The quality of life for its citizens also improved out-of-stock hospitals got the drugs they needed; safe water could be found in most communities; and supermarkets were full of commodities. Compared with the current acute shortages of basic commodities and cash, it was a golden era. Since Mbeki left government, I also lost hope, Muzvidziwa said. I am just praying that South Africas department of home affairs gives me and my family permanent residence in this country so that I completely disown Zimbabwe. During the interview, Muzvidziwa was sending groceries to his home town of Masvingo through the malayishas, an informal courier service. Zimbabwean Farai Ncube, originally from Binga, a district in Matabeleland North, said he was selling items in Braamfontein to generate money for his parents back home. I send the money using malayishas. I cannot send it through formal means as I do not have documentation, he said. A significant portion of the population in Ncubes home province relies on goods and remittances sent by family members outside of the country, mainly from South Africa. Onisimo Zviripai, who works for one of the bus companies plying the Harare-Johannesburg route, was also unconcerned about the Cabinet reshuffle and other political problems. At least I dont commit a crime or steal from other people but eat from my sweat, he said. Advocate Gabriel Shumba, the executive director of civic organisation the Zimbabwe Exiles Forum, said: Very clearly, the reshuffle is a political and secessionist manoeuvre that has neither the current economic interests of Zimbabwe nor its long-term future [at heart]. A cause for serious concern is the new ministry of cyber security. In the execution of whatever mandate will be accorded, it is likely to clash with some provisions of our Constitution. Shumba said Zimbabweans were more concerned about bread-and-butter, as well as developmental, issues that were sacrificed at the altar of political expedience and personal aggrandisement, adding: The country needs to reinvent and re-articulate its vision. Ngqabutho Mabhena, the Johannesburg-based general secretary of the Zimbabwe Communist Party, lamented the appointment of the ministers of scholarships and of of cyber security, arguing that they should have been absorbed into existing ministries. Unfortunately, without a clear economic and political programme, this Cabinet reshuffle is meaningless as it will not address our economic, social and political challenges, Mabhena said. He said the need for a new leadership that would unite the polarised and distressed nation was the biggest challenge facing Zimbabwe, along with the looting of resources by the parasitic bourgeoisie. Luke Dzipange Zunga, secretary general of the Zimbabwean Civil Society Organisations, said while Mugabe had the liberty to change his Cabinet, the reshuffle confirmed that Zimbabwe was not run by Parliament or central government. Instead, it was run via intelligence operatives. Zunga said following the reshuffle and the elective congress, Mnangagwa risked being arrested to sideline him from presidential contention. He further predicted that the 2018 elections would see poverty-stricken villagers frog-marched to the polls to vote for the ruling Zanu-PF party. THE Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) supports ZANU-PFs decision to hold an Extraordinary Congress in December and give President Mugabe the ticket to represent the party in next years elections. The announcement follows the decision by the partys provinces to endorse President Mugabes candidature for next years elections as well as the proposal to hold an extraordinary congress. ZNLWVA provincial chairpersons for Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South revealed the associations resolution yesterday at a press conference held at the Bulawayo provincial offices in Entumbane suburb. Bulawayo provincial chairperson Cde Cephas Ncube who was flanked by his counterparts, Cde Sonny Mguni of Matabeleland North and Cde Section Ncube of Matabeleland South announced that they support the decision to hold an extraordinary congress and they have confidence in President Mugabes leadership. We are members of Zanu-PF and we are not leaving Zanu-PF. We want to quash claims that we have left the party and are joining other parties. We are aware that there were Provincial Executive Committee and Provincial Coordinating Committees meeting to discuss the agenda of the Extraordinary Congress. As veterans of the liberation struggle we want to make it clear that we have no argument with that as long as the agenda remains straight forward to endorse Cde Mugabe as the presidential candidate, said Cde Ncube. He said war veterans were also in support of calls to amend the partys constitution to accommodate the appointment of a female Vice President. Cde Ncube said as former freedom fighters they are however concerned that the party had been too quick to amend the constitution. We also support the appointment of female vice president in the party. But the women quota system issue was there in the party before the constitution was amended. We amended the partys constitution and we are amending it again. People should stop using the partys constitution to serve their interests. Even the President respects the constitution and has always called for the people to follow the partys constitution, said Cde Ncube. He said war veterans were closely monitoring developments in the party saying the association is aware that there is a faction within the party which wants to use the congress to smuggle its agenda. Cde Ncube said war veterans are ready to work with the war veterans Minister Cde Cain Mathema. Cde Mathema replaced Retired Colonel Tshinga Dube as Welfare Services for War Veterans, War Collaborators, Former Political Detainees and Restrictees minister following last weeks Cabinet reshuffle. Meanwhile The Herald reports that Zanu-PF Midlands Province yesterday re-affirmed support for President Mugabes candidature in next years harmonised elections and resolved that the revolutionary party hold an Extraordinary Congress to confirm the position that has been unanimously adopted by the partys other nine provinces. In an interview, Zanu-PF Midlands provincal chairperson Cde Daniel Mackenzie Ncube confirmed the resolutions yesterday following a Provincial Coordinating Committee (PCC) meeting held on Sunday. We had our meeting and the main resolution we made was to request the party that an Extraordinary Congress be held this year to re-affirm President Mugabe as the sole candidate for the party in the 2018 harmonised elections and also show solidarity with the President who is also the First Secretary of the party, Cde Ncube said. He added that they had also discussed the ongoing biometric voter registration exercise with calls to enhance awareness among party supporters to register to vote in next years elections. The resolution by Midlands follows similar resolutions that were made by the revolutionary partys provinces across the country to confirm President Mugabe as their candidate for next years elections. There were also calls to amend the partys constitution to reflect a resolution by the partys Womens League to have a female Vice President. The Extraordinary Congress will replace the Annual National Peoples Conference that was scheduled to be held in Gwanda in December. The regular congress was due to be held in 2019. Mashonaland West, Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Harare, Masvingo, Mashonaland Central, Bulawayo and Matabeleland South and Matabeleland North provinces also affirmed the First Secretary, President Mugabe, as the ruling partys candidate on Saturday and Sunday. Chronicle War Veterans loyal to Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa have said there is no need for a December special congress for Zanu PF, and said President Robert Mugabe must rein-in his wife. This comes as Zanu PF will now hold an extra-ordinary congress instead of the usual congress to give Mugabe a fresh five-year mandate as party leader, strengthening his hand as rivals plot to succeed him and to consider constitutional amendments to create a vice president post for First Lady Grace Mugabe. In an interview with the Daily News, Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) secretary-general Victor Matemadanda, whose executive has already endorsed Mnangagwa, said war veterans should stand up against the first family. We should stand up and say this nonsense should stop, this is not going to be allowed. We cannot tolerate any of the nonsense anymore. Mugabe has failed to control his wife. Every chaotic thing comes from the first family. When Grace says she is not safe, she should remember that she was not part of our agenda when we went to war, we cannot continue to have such stupid things, fumed Matemadanda. If the congress is going to endorse Mugabe, then why then should we go for a congress? What we want as the military wing of Zanu is for Zanu PF to come up with a successor to Mugabe. We have said before that Mugabe is a foil of the G40 factions candidate (Defence minister Sydney) Sekeramayi and we will make sure that they will not have it their way. Sekeramayi has emerged as a dark horse of some sorts, with his name being thrown into the succession ring. Asked how they could influence the congress considering that they are now out of Zanu PF structures, Matemadanda said: I am outside Zanu G40 not the real Zanu PF. For as long as I am a war veteran, I qualify to be a member of the real Zanu PF. We will remain with the PF Zanu they can take the Zanu. Mugabe never held a gun, those who held guns will take the PF. He said while Mugabe and the G40 faction can claim Zanu, they have no control over the Patriotic Front (PF) which is the military element of the ruling party. There is an element for the nationalists, the other element is for war veterans, those who went to war. It is an organisation that realised that they had to fight for independence and left the country for foreign lands and joined either Zipra or Zanla. How can anyone now say the war veterans have no say, when they are using our brand. If you are talking about PF, you are talking about war veterans. It is not going to be easy anymore, we had a congress recently and what has changed now? Since we had a congress recently and Mugabe was elected president under the Zanu PF constitution, that person automatically becomes the president for the next elections, he said. Meanwhile, the ZNLWVA Matabeleland region provincial executives yesterday also vowed to oppose the congress. Addressing journalists at the ZNLWVA Entumbane offices, provincial executives from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and South accused G40 of trying to smuggle an amendment to the Zanu PF constitution to allow for a woman in the presidium They alleged it was a plot to make Grace one of Mugabes deputies. As war veterans, we dont have any issues against the holding of an extra-ordinary Zanu PF congress as long as its agenda is clear, without any sinister motives, said Cephas Ncube, the ZNLWVA Bulawayo provincial chairperson. Section Ncube and Sonny Mnguni represented Matabeleland South and North respectively. The press conference came just after a meeting to deliberate on the holding of an extra-ordinary Zanu PF congress. We are aware the G40 animal has a sinister motive; it is pushing a sinister agenda where they want to push for changes in the presidium. That we will not allow, we are going to defend the revolution, he said. The former liberators, who are aligned to the Christopher Mutsvangwa-led faction, said the G40 faction was misleading Mugabe. The G40 is lying to Mugabe, they have endeared themselves to Mugabe through lies yet under the cover of darkness have a sinister agenda to oust him, and others. We are watching them closely. They want Mugabe gone yesterday. We know they already have their candidate but as war veterans, we are saying we are ready to defend the revolution. We are also not against a womens quota but at the same time we are saying this is not a genuine call, but a sinister call to allow for an amendment to the party constitution so that someone or some other people get positions, Ncube said. He, however, expressed reservation at the move to continue amending the party constitution to suit other peoples needs. The constitution was amended recently, and we cannot be having a constitution willy-nilly amendment to suit G40s evil intents. We are aware this is a G40 plot, and we are saying no to that. We are stepping in to stop the G40 in its tracks. Daily News Bezos' Ex Is Already Doing This. Now He Is, Too Members of the so-called "troll factory" that Russian President Vladimir Putin employed to influence the 2016 presidential election were required to watch House of Cards as part of their training in US politics, Yahoo reports. In a television interview broadcast Sunday by the independent Russian TV station Rain, a former member of the Internet Research Agency says that part of their training to undermine the election was to watch the Netflix show about a corrupt congressman (Kevin Spacey) who lies, cheats, and even murders his way to the presidency. The Russian man, known as "Maksim," says he and his colleagues were told to watch the show to better understand "all the main problems of the United States of America. Tax problems, the problem of gays, sexual minorities, weapons." Maksim is apparently the first member of the Internet Research Agency's English language section to speak in public about the group's work. His department, in addition to posting anti-Clinton, anti-Obama comments on New York Times and Washington Post stories, also placed 3000 ads on Facebook designed to interfere in the election by amplifying "divisive social and political messages," ranging from "LGBT matters to race issues to immigration to gun rights," CNN reports. In early September, Facebook executives told congressional investigators the company had sold approximately $100,000 in advertisements to the Russian troll farm between June 2015 and May 2017. (Read more House of Cards stories.) A Florida school district is under fire this week after court filings seem to show it blaming four third-grade girls for their molestation at the hands of a teacher 12 years ago, People reports. In court documents, lawyers for the school district wrote that the four girls "were old enough to appreciate the consequences of their own actions and to be held accountable for them Through their actions and/or omissions, plaintiffs conducted themselves in a careless and negligent manner and such negligence was a contributing and/or sole proximate cause of their injuries and damages. The news comes as the school district is expected to approve a $3.6 million settlement with the four women at a meeting this week. The women say their teacher Blake Sinrod groped them and forced them to touch him in 2005, when they were around 9. In 2006 Sinrod pleaded guilty to child abuse charges involving two of the girls. After the girls' parents discovered Sinrod had been accused of crimes before, they sued the Palm Beach School District for negligence in 2006. The district's defense was written by Hollywood law firm Conroy Simberg, and a lawyer with the firm called it "comparative negligence," a common defense use to raise issues that might lower the amount of damages the school district should pay, the Sun-Sentinel reports. We have never blamed these girls or given the appearance of holding the girls responsible for what their teacher did," Simberg says. (Read more Florida stories.) The father of a missing California man said he believes the bodies of his son and his son's girlfriend have been found in Joshua Tree National Park, near the area where they vanished while hiking three months ago. Officials did not immediately confirm the identities of the two adults discovered Sunday in rugged terrain near a popular trail in the desert park, the AP reports. But Gilbert Orbeso, who was with searchers when the discovery was made, told KESQ-TV they are his son, Joseph Orbeso, 21, of Lakewood and his girlfriend, Rachel Nguyen, 20, of Westminster. "I feel like we have closure. We know we found them. That was our main goal, to find them," said Gilbert Orbeso, who frequently joined the months-long search efforts that involved family members, friends, volunteers and law enforcement on the ground and in helicopters. Joseph Orbeso and Nguyen were reported missing July 28, after they failed to check out of their accommodations near the park. Authorities said a ping from Joseph Orbeso's cellphone had been recorded in the park the previous day. The couple's car was later found in the park. Temperatures topped 100 degrees in late July and it was unclear whether the couple had water and supplies with them. Daylight faded following the discovery Sunday, so authorities planned to recover the bodies Monday, said Jodi Miller, spokeswoman for the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department. Autopsies will determine the causes of death, she said. "I believed that I was going to find them. I didn't know when, but I had my answer," Gilbert Orbeso told KESQ. Per Fox 11, the two bodies were found locked in an embrace. The couple's clothing, water bottles, and food wrappers were found nearby. (Read more Joshua Tree stories.) A South Dakota man who carried guns into an anti-Islam speaking event and livestreamed a Facebook video from outside afterward has been sentenced. Ehab Jaber, of Sioux Falls, pleaded guilty in July to a federal firearms charge. On Monday, US District Judge Lawrence Piersol sentenced the 46-year-old to seven months imprisonment with served time suspended, seven months in community or home detention, and three years of probation, the AP reports. Federal prosecutors say Jaber aimed to spark a violent reaction when he attended the April event with firearms in tow. "Be scared," he said in his livestreamed video, displaying the five guns in his car. Jaber told the court he was "heartbroken" to see so many people attend the "Sabotaging America: Islam's March Toward Supremacy" event at a venue where he used to work as a waiter and bartender, the Argus Leader reports. "I was heartbroken to see that many people at a hotel on a Sunday," he said. "I served them food, I served them drink. I was heartbroken, I wasn't angry." His attorneys argued that he had a right both to carry the guns and to speak his mind on social media. Jaber faces separate state charges of making terroristic threats and violating his bail conditions by testing positive for methamphetamine. (Read more South Dakota stories.) President Trump seemed to politicize the calling of the families of fallen soldiers Monday when he was asked about four US servicemen killed in an ambush in Niger last week. Trump, speaking at a White House press conference, said he plans to call their families as he has done "traditionally," the Hill reports. He said such calls are the toughest he has to make and added: "If you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didn't make calls, a lot of them didn't make calls. I like to call when it's appropriate, when I think I'm able to do it." When pressed on the claim, he walked it back, saying Obama "probably did sometimes and maybe sometimes he didn't. I dont know. That's what I was told." Trump said he liked to do a combination of letters and calls. He said he had written to the families of those killed in Niger and the letters would be sent out that night, reports the Washington Post reports. In a tweet, Alyssa Mastromonaco, Obama's former deputy chief of staff, called Trump a liar and a "deranged animal." Freddy Ford, a spokesman for George W. Bush, tells the AP that the former president "wrote all the families of the fallen," even at the height of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, when more than 800 were dying each year. He says Bush also called or met with "hundreds, if not thousands" of their relatives. Later Monday, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Trump had been "stating a fact," not criticizing predecessors. (Read more President Trump stories.) A sad day for Sunnyvale Trailer Park: John Dunsworth, the Canadian actor best known for playing alcoholic trailer park supervisor Jim Lahey in the Trailer Park Boys, has died. He was 71. "With heavy and broken hearts the family of John F. Dunsworth would like to let people know that our amazing husband, father, and grandfather John Dunsworth has passed away," relatives said in a statement on his Twitter feed Monday. "John left this world peacefully after a short and unexpected illness." Fellow Trailer Park Boys cast members paid tribute to Dunsworth, as did members of the band Rush, who appeared as guest stars. Dunsworth was "truly a great actor and sweet man," the band tweeted. "John was a beautiful guy. Brilliant and fascinating. I am forever grateful for having known him," tweeted Mike Smith, who plays Bubbles in the Trailer Park Boys. Dunsworth appeared in dozens of films in a career that spanned more than 50 years. He also played reporter Dave Teagues in the Syfy show Haven. He started acting while attending the University of Guelph in the mid-'60s. "I decided then and there that I don't care if I go broke in my life, I am going to be an actor, because I love to live in other people's shoes," he told the CBC in 2010. He spent most of his career in his native Nova Scotia, where he spent many years trying to build up the province's film industry. (Read more actor stories.) White nationalist Richard Spencer is scheduled to speak at the University of Florida on Thursday, and authorities are treating him like an approaching hurricane: Gov. Rick Scott has declared a state of emergency in Alachua County, which includes the Gainesville campus where Spencer will speak, the New York Daily News reports. Large protests are expected. In a statement, Scott says that "everyone has the right to voice their opinion," but "we have zero tolerance for violence, and public safety is always our No. 1 priority." University officials say they plan to spend $500,000 on security for the Spencer event, his first at a college since a University of Virginia rally the day before the Charlottesville violence. Spencer says his followers won't start any violence. He says any altercations will be the fault of "nasty, nasty" anti-fascists. In a statement, the University of Florida said Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell requested the state of emergency, WUFT reports. The university says the measure is not a "response to any specific heightened threat," but "a process that enables various law enforcement agencies to work together more efficiently." University of Florida President Kent Fuchs has emailed the student body to say nobody at the university invited Spencer to speak, and the university is strongly against his "racist speech and white-nationalist values." (Michigan State University is being sued for denying Spencer a chance to speak on campus.) An unimaginable story out of Florida, where a 31-year-old man is accused of fatally beating his girlfriend's 17-month-old sonthen stealing her belongings and pawning them off while she was at the hospital with the dying toddler. David Earl Vickers called 911 on Aug. 21 to report the boy, Luca Sholey, was unresponsive and not breathing, the Miami Herald reports. After two days in the hospital, Luca was declared brain-dead from "injuries ... consistent with child abuse," per a police statement cited by People; he died Aug. 25 as a result of blunt trauma to his brain and asphyxia. He also had bruises on his chest and six broken ribs. On Aug. 27, Luca's mother reported her car stereo and laptop were missing, and she told police she "found out that he [Vickers] had pawned the car stereo, so she suspected that the laptop was pawned as well," a police detective tells People. Police recovered the stolen items. They say Vickers took the stereo on Aug. 21, before Luca went to the hospital, and pawned it for $30, and that he took the laptop and charger when Luca's mom was at the hospital with the toddler and pawned them for $60. Vickers was charged with crimes related to the alleged thefts on Aug. 30. After an investigation in which they found Vickers had allegedly physically abused Luca on several occasions before his death, police arrested him Thursday and charged him with second-degree murder and aggravated child abuse. He'd been watching Luca and his 3-year-old sister on the day Luca was fatally injured, and he told police Luca had been knocked down the stairs by an older sibling, ABC Action News reports. Vickers had just been released from prison in May after serving nearly three years for trafficking in stolen property and defrauding a pawnbroker. (Read more child murder stories.) "Tragic is someone being run over by a bus. When there is blood and fire all around you, that's war." So writes the son of Daphne Caruana Galizia, a 53-year-old journalist who Politico dubbed a "one-woman WikiLeaks," following her death by car bomb near her home in Malta on Monday, reports the BBC. The Guardian cites local media reports that say one of her three sons heard the blast and came running; son Matthew Caruana Galizia does write of coming upon a scene of horror: "running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring ... I looked down and there were my mother's body parts all around me." Caruana Galizia targeted political corruption via her blog, which the Guardian reports "often attracted more readers than the combined circulation of the countrys newspapers." She was known for poring over the Malta-related content contained in the leaked Panama Papers and had exposed an alleged scheme involving Malta PM Joseph Muscat, passports, and payments from Azerbaijan's government. She published what would be her final blog post roughly 30 minutes before the blast in Mosta. Caruana Galizia had reportedly gone to police 15 days ago over death threats she had been receiving. Muscat called her murder a "barbaric act" and appealed for external help with the investigation; the FBI has agents en route to the country. (Read more journalists killed stories.) North Korea had hoped for a nuclear-free world, the country's deputy United Nations ambassador claimed Mondaybut because of the "extreme" threat from the US, the country has been forced to become a "full-fledged" nuclear power. Kim In Ryong, speaking to the UN's disarmament committee, warned that the situation on the Korean Peninsula is now so tense that "a nuclear war may break out any moment," the AP reports. "The entire US mainland is within our firing range, and if the US dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch, it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe," said Kim, who warned that North Korea "possesses the delivery means of various ranges, including the atomic bomb, H-bomb, and intercontinental ballistic rockets." Kim said that until the "nuclear threat of the US is thoroughly eradicated," Pyongyang "will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiating table under any circumstances." A day earlier, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that despite North Korean threats, "diplomatic efforts will continue until the first bomb drops." A North Korean official tells CNN that Pyongyang hasn't completely ruled out diplomacybut before entering talks, it wants to perfect a long-range intercontinental missile capable of reaching the US East Coast. Sanctions, meanwhile, are still tightening: Russian President Vladimir Putin said Monday that Moscow is cutting ties to North Korea to comply with new UN sanctions. (President Trump might visit the DMZ on his Asia trip next month.) The European Union has imposed new sanctions on North Korea aimed at punishing the country for its nuclear and ballistic weapons program. EU foreign ministers agreed Monday to a total ban on EU investment in the communist country, a measure that goes beyond the latest UN sanctions. They also banned the sale of oil and refined petroleum products to North Korea, in a largely symbolic move aimed at encouraging countries that have more significant levels of trade with North Korea to follow suit. The ministers also cut the amount of money that people can send to North Korea from $17,700 to $5,900, saying they believe the remittances are being used to back Pyongyang's arms program. Twice a jury appeared before a court Monday to announce a not guilty verdict in the 2014 burning death of 19-year-old Jessica Chambersand twice it was revealed the decision was actually split. Finally, Judge Gerald Chatham declared a mistrial due to a "hopelessly deadlocked" jury, though prosecutors immediately stated they intended to try Quinton Tellis again for capital murder, reports the Jackson Clarion-Ledger. According to prosecutors, phone records show 29-year-old Tellis, an acquaintance of Chambers, was with her around the time she was doused in gasoline and set on fire in Courtland, Miss., on Dec. 6, 2014. Defense attorneys, however, stressed that Chambers identified her attacker as "Eric" or "Derek" before she died, per WREG. Though USA Today reports Chambers' mouth was so badly charred that she mispronounced her own last name as "Tambers," Tellis' family urged authorities to "find Eric" as they celebrated the mistrial. Defense attorney Alton Peterson described the result as "very unusual," adding, "I've never seen it happen before," per WREG and CNN. After a week-long trial, jurors apparently believed only a guilty verdict required a unanimous decision; they returned with a split not guilty verdict even after the judge reminded them that a decision had to be unanimous. Peterson says his "great sense of relief" quickly evaporated. It's not yet clear when a new trial could take place. Tellis also faces charges in a separate murder in Louisiana and is serving time in prison for using credit cards belonging to that victim. (Read more Mississippi stories.) The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia slammed into Ireland with wind gusts of up to 80mph on Monday, killing at least three people, grounding planes, shutting schools, and causing widespread power outages. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar urged people to stay indoors until the storm passed. Tens of thousands of homes were without power and the military was placed on standby. Hurricane-force gusts were reported 30 years to the day after a weather event dubbed the "Great Storm of 1987" battered southern England, the AP reports. "It is a very dangerous storm," Varadkar said. "The last time there was a storm this severe, 11 lives were lost," he added, referring to Hurricane Debbie, which hit Ireland in 1961. Ophelia has been downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone, though Ireland's National Emergency Coordination Group on Severe Weather warned that the storm is still "unprecedented, with serious life-threatening conditions." Ireland's weather service, Met Eireann, described the storm as the most powerful on record to have ever been this far east in the Atlantic. Large waves around coastal districts tossed sand and rocks onto coastal roads, seafronts, and properties. In parts of the UK and northern France, the sky turned an eerie color as Ophelia's winds carried a mix of sand from the Sahara and particles from fires in Spain and Portugal. (Read more hurricane stories.) A 9-year-old girl was allegedly killed by her adult cousin, a 325-pound woman accused of sitting on the child to punish her for misbehaving, the AP reports. Per the Pensacola News Journal, Dericka Lindsay was pronounced dead Saturday after an incident at the home of her parents, Grace Smith, 69, and James Smith, 62. Grace Smith's arrest report notes that she says she was having trouble disciplining Dericka, so she phoned her niece, 64-year-old Veronica Green Posey, to help her out. When Posey arrived, Grace Smith says her niece hit Dericka with a metal pipe and a ruler, and when Dericka ran into an armchair, Posey followed the child and sat on top of her. James Smith told cops Posey sat on Dericka for 10 minutes, at which point Dericka said she couldn't breathe. Posey reportedly remained sitting for two more minutes after that, and when she stood up, she saw Dericka wasn't moving. A 911 call brought paramedics to the home, and Dericka was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Posey, who told a deputy from the Escambia County Sheriff's Office that Dericka had been "out of control," was arrested and charged with homicide and child cruelty. The Smiths were charged with neglect for not reporting the abuse, and Grace Smith was also hit with a child cruelty charge. A rep from the Florida Department of Children and Families told the News Journal that his agency had had at least one interaction with this family before, that Dericka's death was "appalling," and that they'd be working with the sheriff's office "to hold anyone responsible for her death accountable." Posey was released on $125,000 bail; the Smiths are still in jail, per court records. (Read more Florida stories.) After Hurricane Maria, the USNS Comfort was sent to Puerto Rico, where the floating hospital has been idling offshore for almost two weeks. But CNN reports that only 30 or so of the ship's 250 available beds are occupied, and that its surgery facilities, medical staff, and supplies have barely been tapped, all due to confusion and red tape on transporting hurricane victims to the vessel. The issues seem to revolve around the protocol in getting patients onto the shipwhich Hillary Clinton referenced on Twitter last month, urging the US government to send it to Puerto Rico ASAP. Patients apparently have to be referred by the territory's Department of Health, and the referrals haven't been coming, as medical staff don't seem to know exactly what to do. "The disconnect or the apparent disconnect [is] in the communications flow," Ricardo Rossello says, vowing to overhaul the process. One bright spot, per WTKR: A baby girl was born on the USNS Comfort on Saturday, the first baby birthed on the ship since 2010. "I never thought that our special moment would happen here," says the dad of newborn Sara Victoria Llull Rodriguez, who "has reinvigorated the crew," the ship's mission commander says. Per ABC News, the ship's crew named one of its boat tenders "Sara Victoria" after the baby. CBS News' David Begnaud tweeted a photo of the happy family flanked by smiling crew members after little Sara's arrival. Fox News and ABC News have more on the stats and history of the 900-foot-long ship, which a Navy fact sheet notes boasts "one of the largest trauma facilities in the United States." (Read more Puerto Rico stories.) He's the man everybody wants to speak with in regard to the Las Vegas shooting, but security guard Jesus Campos is apparently not interested. If Campos hoped this would deflect attention, it seems to be having the opposite effect. With headlines declaring that he has "vanished,"see here and hereand even "mysteriously vanished," the myth-debunking website Snopes decided to dig in. Its conclusion: There's a world of difference between "vanishing" and merely withdrawing from the public eye, and it puts Campos in the latter category. Campos "is not missing," a Vegas police officer tells the website, sounding frustrated at some wild conspiracy theories surfacing. "Hes not under arrest." Campos is the security guard who was shot by Vegas gunman Stephen Paddock on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel. Police initially said Campos had been shot in the hallway outside Paddock's room six minutes prior to Paddock's larger shooting spreethe unarmed Campos was praised as a herobut authorities later revised the timeline to say that he had been shot about the same time Paddock began shooting at concert fans. Campos was going to address his role and any interaction with Paddock last Thursday in a spate of media interviews, but he abruptly canceled, and Campos' union president (who was helping coordinate the interviews) says he was told only that Campos ended up in a walk-in medical clinic. Reporters say a security guard is now parked outside Campos' home, and neighbors haven't seen him. "He's a hero, one neighbor tells the Los Angeles Times, and nobody knows where he is. (Read more Las Vegas shooting stories.) A few weeks before she was to walk down the aisle as bridesmaid at her friend's wedding, Heather McNamara's father passed away. It was only the first tragedy to befall the circle of friends before the nuptials could take place, reports WLWT. As the wedding party took a break outside from decorating a venue in Fort Wright, Ky., on Friday, a towering tree cracked and fell onto a canopy. McNamara and the bride's sister, maid of honor Rebecca Wright, were both beneath it and trapped when paramedics arrived, reports WKYT. Crews used chainsaws to remove the dead ash treedescribed as 8 to 10 stories high and more than a foot in diameterbut it was too late for McNamara, 32, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Wright, 45, was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition and has since undergone two surgeries, per WLWT. Her current condition is unknown. The wedding reception was afterward canceled, though the bride and groom wed in a private ceremony Saturday. (A falling tree killed a bride's mother on her wedding day.) A Michigan judge has rescinded his order that gave a convicted sex offender joint legal custody of a child born to a woman who said the man raped her when she was 12. Sanilac County Judge Gregory Ross ruled Tuesday that 27-year-old Christopher Mirasolo won't have any parental rights in connection to the 8-year-old boy, the AP reports. The case started when the 21-year-old mother sought state assistance for her son. As a condition of receiving assistance, the state required she cooperate in pursuing paternity verification and financial support from the child's father. A DNA test confirmed paternity. Mirasolo never sought parental rights, but Ross granted him joint legal custody and ordered him to pay child support last month. Ross quickly put the order on hold after learning Mirasolo had two previous criminal sexual conduct convictions, including one concerning the boy's mother. In Michigan, joint legal custody enables both parents to share decision-making authority about a child's welfare. Mirasolo's lawyer says he didn't initiate the case. (Read more child custody stories.) A federal judge in Hawaii blocked the Trump administration Tuesday from enforcing its latest travel ban just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the president's revised order "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor." It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by President Donald Trump to be thwarted, in whole or in part, by the courts. US District Judge Derrick Watson issued the ruling after the ban was challenged by the state of Hawaii, which warned that the restrictions would separate families and undermine the recruiting of diverse college students, the AP reports. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the ruling "dangerously flawed" and said it "undercuts the president's efforts to keep the American people safe." The Justice Department said it will quickly appeal. Watson, appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling against Trump's previous ban. The latest version "plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation," Watson wrote. Hawaii argued the updated ban was a continuation of Trump's campaign call for a ban on Muslims, despite the addition to the list of two countries without a Muslim majority. In his ruling, the judge said the new ban, like its predecessor, fails to show that nationality alone makes a person a greater security risk to the US. Other courts are also weighing challenges to the ban. In Maryland, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups are seeking to block the visa and entry restrictions. Washington state, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, New York and Maryland are challenging the order in front of the same federal judge in Seattle who struck down Trump's initial ban in January. (Read more Trump travel ban stories.) Sorry! This content is not available in your region The U.S. Supreme Court agreed on Monday to hear an appeal from the Justice Department on whether U.S. investigators can obtain e-mails stored overseas if they have a search warrant. Since 2013, Microsoft has defied U.S. authorities in turning over e-mails that were stored on a data center in Ireland. While the investigators had a search warrant to obtain private records -- in this case, e-mails -- regarding a drug-trafficking case, Microsoft argued the warrant was valid under U. S. law but did not apply to other countries. Microsoft's lawyers maintained that the Stored Communications Act of 1986, the federal law that regulates electronic records, does not extend beyond the United States. Under the same logic, the tech company argued foreign governments could cause Microsoft to turn over data stored on U.S. servers. In the wake of sexual abuse allegations against Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein, tens of thousands of women are identifying themselves as victims of sexual harassment or assault. Women and some men shared their stories on social media under the hashtag #MeToo after actress Alyssa Milano posted a message Sunday on Twitter that said, "If you've been sexually harassed or assaulted write 'Me too' as a reply to this tweet, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem." By mid-day Monday, the hashtag had been retweeted more than a million times, a Twitter spokesman told Hollywood Reporter. Among those who weighed in were Lady Gaga, Monica Lewinsky, Rosario Dawson and Senator Elizabeth Warren. "Being raped once made it easier to be raped again. I instinctually shut down. My body remembered, so it protected me. I disappeared. #metoo,'' actress Evan Rachel Wood wrote as part of a series of tweets on her experience. Hamilton star Javier Munoz tweeted, "Me too. I don't know if it means anything coming from a gay man but it's happened. Multiple times." The Daily News-Miner encourages residents to make themselves heard through the Opinion pages. Readers' letters and columns also appear online at newsminer.com. Contact the editor with questions at letters@newsminer.com or call 459-7574. New Delhi: For all the fans of Madhuri Dixit out there, there's some good news. The Dhak Dhak girl is all set to make her acting debut in the Marathi Film Industry. The Devdas actress has a remarkable career in Bollywood which spans over three decades. The dancing diva will be part of a slice-of-life Marathi film which centres around the self-realisation journey of a woman. The upcoming movie will also have humour attached to its narrative style. The 50-year-old actor told PTI that the movie will have a story that is present in every household but there is a silver lining to it. She added that the movie encourages the people to live and enjoy life in true sense. The untitled movie will be helmed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar. Tejas has also co-written the script of the film along with Devashree Shivadekar. When asked why it took her a long time to do a Marathi film, the beautiful actress said that she was waiting for the right script. Read: Former 'Splitsvilla' contestant Gaurav Arora to return to small screen as Gauri with THIS show The 'Dil To Pagal Hai' star told PTI, "Marathi cinema is evolving so beautifully and seeing such incredible stories being told makes me beam with pride. I have received a number of scripts over the years since doing a Marathi film was always something I was open to''. Madhuri added "But the scripts didn't excite me as this one did. When I read this script, it stood out and with the amazing team behind it, I knew that this is what I wanted to be a part of". The upcoming movie is being co-produced by Aarti and Subhedar and Subhedar of Blue Mustang Creations, and Arun Rangachari & Vivek Rangachari of Dar Motion Pictures. It is currently in pre-production stage and is expected to go on floors by the year-end. Read: THIS is the highest paid contestant of Salman Khan's Bigg Boss 11 The Bollywood diva was last seen in the movie Gulaab Gang, which also starred Juhi Chawla. She has also made a name for herself on the small screen with shows like So You Think You Can Dance and Jhalak Dikh Laja. (With PTI Inputs) For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi : Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader was shot dead by unknown bike born assailants in Punjab's Ludhiana on Tuesday. The deceased RSS leader has been identified as Ravinder Gosain, 60-year-old. Punjab Police told the media that Gosain was shot twice, once on his head and the other on the back. Gosain was sitting outside his home when he was shot. The injuries were unsustainale. He was the head of Mohan Shikha located in Amantran colony of Jodhewal. The zonal General Secretary of RSS, Yash Giri accused the police of failling law and order situation and said that top leaders of the BJP including Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had called to ask about the incident. Ludhiana police have released the CCTV images of the assailants on social media along with contact numbers. The case becomes more intriguing as Ravinder Gosain never received any threats before. It is worthy to note here that Kerala have reported the highest number of murders due to political reasons in the period between 2000 and 2017. According to RSS, 65 of their cadres and BJP workers have been killed between 2000 and 2017 in Kerala. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Thiruvananthapuram: BJP chief Amit Shah will join the high-pitched 'Janaraksha Yatra' on Tuesday against the political violence allegedly unleashed by the CPI(M), when the two-week-long campaign will conclude. The padyatra, flagged-off by Shah on October 3 from Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers, was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. The sources said Shah would walk with party cadres from Pattom to the Puthrikandam maidan, the venue of the valedictory of the two-week-long yatra. A host of BJP leaders, Union ministers and BJP chief ministers, including Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, have participated in the yatra at different stages. It's led by BJP state chief Kummanom Rajasekharan. Read more: PM Modi to inaugurate first ever All India Institute of Ayurveda The BJP has lashed out at the CPI(M) over the political violence in Kerala, alleging that their party cadres were attacked and killed by ruling CPI(M) workers. They had also alleged that instances of political violence increased whenever the LDF came to power in Kerala, ruled alternatively by Congress-led UDF and LDF. It was also alleged that the state has become a fertile ground for 'jihadis'. The ruling CPI(M) has rejected the charges and said that BJP-RSS activists attacked its workers instead. The CPI(M) has also alleged that the BJP was attempting to create tension in the state by unleashing violence. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Two days after a RSS worker was brutally attacked by miscreants in Kerala, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Tuesday hit out at the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and asked him if people of the state have CPI-M a mandate to kill BJP and RSS workers. Shah was in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram to conclude the Janaraksha Yatra. The BJP chief on the concluding day of Janaraksha Yatra said, At least 13 BJP-RSS workers have been murdered and most of them in the Kannur district after the the arrival of this government to power in Kerala." Shah dared the Kerala Chief Minister to fight on the development plank. During the completion program of the rally the BJP president also questioned the Vijayan if he was ready to take the moral responsibility for the killings of RSS-BJP workers. He added, Violence in Kerala is not new and political killings in the state has always increased whenever CPI-M is in power. Stating an example he said that at least 30 BJP-RSS workers were killed in Kerala between 1996 and 2001 the period when the CPI-M was in mandate. Shah during the rally also suggested the CPI-M leaders in Kerala to mend their ways to have peoples mandate. He said, Congress rule ended due to corruption and nepotism and CPI-Ms rule will come to end because of violence. Also read: Amit Shah says 'Jan Raksha Yatra' will create awareness in people of Kerala against 'red terror' Before ending his speech Shah promised the families of murdered workers that he will not let their assailants go free. Also read| Janaraksha Yatra: BJP chief Amit Shah skips rally, returns to Delhi 'Janaraksha Yatra' was flagged-off by Shah on October 3 from Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers and home district of Kerala chief minister. The 14-day rally was called by the BJP to mark protest against the political violence allegedly unleashed by the CPI-M. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The special investigation team (SIT) of Bengaluru Police on Tuesday has released a sketch of a suspect in connection with the murder of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh. Police team have made the sketch with the help of CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts. The SIT is looking out for suspect in white shirt and black trousers riding a bajaj pulsar ride. According to the sketch released the suspect can been seen wearing hand-gloves and face masked with a helmet. The Bengaluru Police suspects the biker was doing a recce prior to Lankeshs killing. Lankesh was shot dead by unknown bike-borne criminals outside her residence on September 5 evening. Her killers had pumped in at least seven rounds of bullet into her body from a close range. Police then had said that a man wearing a helmet was recorded on cameras as he was shooting her. The Bengaluru Police last week had released CCTV footages and sketches of the suspect. The sketch released by the SIT is an enhanced close-up. The picture shows shows the facial features of the killer. Also read| Gauri Lankesh murder: SIT holds press conference, releases CCTV footage of one suspect Last week, the Karnataka government had said that the killers have been identified but evidence is still being collected to prove their guilt. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Calcutta High Court on Tuesday stayed the BJP-led central governments decision to pull out Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) troops from Darjeeling until October 27 in response to the West Bengal governments challenge to centres order for forces withdrawal. The court has also asked the Centre to file an affidavit on the matter by October 23 and told the West Bengal government to submit reply on October 26. The court will hear the case next on October 27. West Bengal had earlier moved the High Court asking for the stay on the withdrawal of the forces to maintain law and order in the region. The central home ministry had on Sunday ordered to pull out ten out of the 15 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies deployed in the hills. The home ministry had ordered the withdrawal of as many as 1000 Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel including 300 women troopers deployed at Darjeeling hills to maintain law and order during the agitation for separate Gorkhaland state. In an official communication, the ministry had ordered seven companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), including three women companies, and three companies of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel to be withdrawn from Darjeeling from Monday. The West Government and Trinamool Congress welcomed the high courts decision. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday had accused the centre of conspiring to destablise the state in a press conference at the state secretariat in Kolkata after an all-party meeting on the Darjeeling situation. Also read: West Bengal Chief Minister says BJP is allowing the Darjeeling Hills to burn for sake of seat Banerjee then had told the media that she had urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh not to pull out central forces from Darjeeling hills. Also read| Gorkhaland stir: BJP leaders take shelter in police station after attack in Darjeeling Agitations for separate Gorkhaland started in June after Banerjee announced her decision to make Bengali compulsory in state-run schools. Gorkhaland supporters had called for indefinite strike in the region which ended after intervention of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh recently. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Indore: The cyber squad of Madhya Pradesh Police has arrested two persons of an international gang that used to make large-scale online purchases and enjoy foreign trips by using hacked information of credit cards, a senior official claimed. Superintendent of Police (SP) of State Cyber Cells Indore unit, Jitendra Singh told reporters on Tuesday that two Indian members of this gang, identified as Ramkumar Pillai and Ramprasad Nadar, were arrested following a complaint made by a bank official from Agar Malwa district. The SP said both the accused are residents of Mumbai and suspected to be associated with a gang of international cyber criminals, run by Pakistani citizen Shaikh Afzal ka Shozi. He said, "We have learnt that Shozi is a native of Lahore and got married only last year. Shozi visits different countries across the world. He was in Uzbekistan when Nadar and Pillai talked to him last time through Skype. We are trying to confirm these details." Singh said members of this cyber gang purchased credit card details hacked from some websites by the dark web (secret world of internet that is notorious for illegal business). Then the gang members made purchases of air tickets and tourism packages of Bangkok, Thailand, Dubai, Hong Kong and Malaysia by using this confidential information of hacked credit cards. Simultaneously, they also made online purchases of expensive items from foreign companies, said the official. He said, "The gang members used to pay through Bitcoin (virtual and digital currency) to purchase the hacked details of credit cards on dark web. If this payment is measured in terms of Indian currency, it costs only Rs 500 to Rs 800 to buy details of every credit card. " Singh said the accused also used to send half the amount, they spent by misusing the credit card details, to Shozi by secret online methods. The accused also used to select the online e-commerce website, where they do not need a one-time password (OTP) to make a purchase. So, the holders would get the information about the misuse of credit cards only after the payment. Singh said initial investigation revealed that both the accused have made purchases of about Rs 20 lakh by misusing the details of 17 credit cards so far. However, this figure may go up after further investigation. He said that the police have been searching for a resident of Jabalpur, who is also learnt to be connected with this gang. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Reacting to BJP leader Sangeet Soms comments that Taj Mahal belonged to traitors and it should be demolished, Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan on Tuesday said that if these monuments reminds us of traitors then we should demolish these. Azam said that if Taj Mahal reminds us of traitors then we should also demolish Rashtrapati Bhawan, Qutub Minar and Lal Qila. SP leader said that he was always of the view that we should obliterate all the things which reminds us of the yesterday's rule. I am always of the view that we should obliterate all the things which reminds us of the yesterday's rule. Why only Taj Mahal, we should also demolish Rashtrapati Bhawan, Qutub Minar and Lal Qila as they all remind us of days of slavery, said Khan. Azam said that if these monuments reminds us of traitors then we should demolish these. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that it does not matter who built it and for what reason; it was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers. Earlier on Sunday, placing the Taj Mahal in the crosschairs of another controversy, BJP MLA Sangeet Som questioned the 17th century architectural marvels place in Indias heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. Soms comments during a visit to Meerut district prompted an angry response from All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi who asked if the government would tell tourists not to visit the monument. The BJP stepped into the row with party spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao describing Muslim rule in India as barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance while asserting that its members could hold any opinion they want on specific monuments. Som, the partys legislator from Sardhana, also distorted history to say it was built by an emperor who had imprisoned his father and targeted Hindus. With PTI inputs For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. The European Union will send its top diplomat Federica Mogherini to Washington to fight for the Iran nuclear deal, which U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to scrap. EU foreign, ministers meeting in Luxembourg Monday, echoed concerns from international leaders over Trump's decision to decertify Iran's compliance with the accord. With his announcement to decertify the nuclear agreement Friday, Trump left it up to Congress as to whether to reimpose economic sanctions that were in place before the United States, the European Union, France, Britain, Germany, Russia and China reached the 2015 accord with Iran. New Delhi: Over 250 policemen of the Rajasthan government went on a mass leave on Monday and some of them who were supposed to give guard of honour to Home Minister Rajnath Singh refused to do so. The constabulary went on leave after rumours occurred that a government order would reduce their pay scales. Jodhpur Police commissioner Ashok Rathod said that it was not a sanctioned leave and the policemen who were part of the guard of honour had to be replaced with other cops. He further said that it was a serious issue and action would be taken against guilty policemen.Rajasthan DGP Ajit Singh said that indiscipline in any form would not be condoned. The state constabulary has been protesting against rumours that their pay scale grades would be reduced from the existing Rs 24,000 to the proposed Rs 19,000 per month. This followed a WhatsApp message which went viral among groups of constables. The protest ahead of Diwali has left the government in a tight spot as this would mean reduction in police deployment in sensitive areas. The DGP issued a letter on Monday evening to district superintendents of police and inspector generals, while asking them to speak to the protesting constables and dispel pay rumours. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday informed about the rescue operations of missing crew members of ship Emerald Star which sank in Japan. There were 26 Indians on board the ship. So far, 16 have been rescued and 10 are still missing. To rescue the missing Indians, Indian Navy P81 has reached Manila and joined the search and rescue operation. "Indian Embassy in Japan has informed me that a helicopter and 2 patrol vessels of Japan Coast Guard are engaged in search and rescue operations. Indian Navy P81 has reached Manila and has also joined the search and rescue operation for missing Indians," said Sushma Swaraj. Earlier on Friday, a cargo ship sank on Friday some 600 km south of Ishigaki island of Okinawa prefecture in Japan. "At least 10 Indian crew members were missing after their cargo ship sank on Friday some 600 km south of Ishigaki island of Okinawa prefecture, southwestern Japan," the Chinese Consulate-General said. Sixteen of the 26 Indian crew aboard the Hong Kong-registered vessel had been rescued, while 10 others were still missing, said the Consulate-General, quoting information from the Japanese side, Xinhua news agency reported. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Pakistans Punjab government seeks extension of detention of Mumbai attack mastermind and Jamat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed under public safety law on Tuesday, two days after it had withdrawn its application to prolong his house arrest. Jamat-ud-Dawah chief has been under house arrest since January. Earlier he was brought before a three-member provincial judge review board. The Punjab Judicial Review Board comprising of Justice Yawar Ali, Justice Abdul Sami and Justice Alia Neelam heard arguments of a law officer of the Punjab Home Department. Punjab Law Department had seeked detention of Saeed and four of his close aides Malik Zafar, Abdullah Ubaid, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Hussain as their house arrest ends on October 24. According to Pakistan law, the government can detain a person for upto three months under different charges and can be extended by only if the judicial review board approves. Saeed and his four associates were produced amid tight security. Lahore Police had made strict security measures around the Lahore High Court building at the time the five were produced. Also read: US' former darlings' Hafiz Saeed, Haqqanis, LeT dined and wined in the White House, says Pakistan The board earlier had issued notices to the Advocate General Punjab and foreign and interior secretaries to appear before it on October 19 seeking explanation on why they wanted their house arrest. Also read: Terrorist Hafiz Saeed slaps Rs100 million defamation notice on Pakistan FM Khawaja Asif for darling remark Saeed and four others were detained by the Punjab government under prevantive detention under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 for 90 days. The United Stated in 2014 had declared Saeeds organisation Jamat-ud-Dawah as foreign terrorist organisation. (With PTI inputs) For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Panama Papers whistleblower and investigative reporter Daphne Caruana Galizia, 59, was killed in a car bomb blast near her home at Bidnija in Malta. Galizia died on Monday afternoon when her car, a Peugeot 108, was destroyed by a powerful explosive device. Local police said that the explosion blew the vehicle into several pieces and threw the debris into a nearby field. No group or individual has still claimed the attack. According to reports, Galizia notified Maltese police that she had been receiving death-threats. Galizia In her last blog posted just a few minutes before her car exploded had written, aThere are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate.a In an official statement released by Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat condemned the blast and termed it abarbaric attacka. The statement read, aEveryone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way.a According to the statement, he had asked the police to reach out to other countriesa security services for help identifying the perpetrators. Muscat later tweeted, aa spiteful attack on a citizen and freedom of expression. I will not rest until justice is done." This is a spiteful attack on a citizen and freedom of expression. I will not rest until justice is done. The country deserves justice -JM a Joseph Muscat (@JosephMuscat_JM) October 16, 2017 The slain veteran journalistas son, Matthew Caruana Galizia said that his mother had been assassinated for doing her job in investigating alleged corruption. He on Facebook wrote, aMy mother was assassinated because she stood between the rule of law and those who sought to violate it, like many strong journalists. But she was also targeted because she was the only person doing so.a Also read: Panama Papers revelations trigger tax evasion probes Matthew has accused Maltese prime minister and a list of people behind the killing. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Spain's government said on Monday Catalonia's separatist leader had failed to make it clear whether he had declared independence, urging him to say by Thursday whether he was maintaining his campaign to break the region away from Spain. "The government regrets that the president of the Catalan government has decided not to respond to the request made by the government," deputy prime minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria told reporters. "In an issue as important such as this all that was asked, and all we are asking for, is clarity," she said, adding that Puigdemont had until Thursday at 10 am (8 am GMT) to make clear his intentions. Last week, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's conservative government had set a Monday deadline for Puigdemont to explicitly say whether or not he proclaimed that Catalonia was breaking away from Spain. File image of people carrying "esteladas" or independence flag in Barcelona. APFile image of people carrying "esteladas" or independence flag in Barcelona. AP"The government regrets that the president of the Catalan government has decided not to respond to the request made by the government," deputy prime minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria told reporters. "In an issue as important such as this all that was asked, and all we are asking for, is clarity," she said, adding that Puigdemont had until Thursday at 10 am (8 am GMT) to make clear his intentions. Last week, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's conservative government had set a Monday deadline for Puigdemont to explicitly say whether or not he proclaimed that Catalonia was breaking away from Spain. In a letter sent to Rajoy, Puigdemont did not give a clear "yes" or "no" answer to the government's question and called instead for two months of dialogue. He also requested that Spanish authorities halt "all repression" in Catalonia and requested a meeting with Rajoy "as soon as possible". In a written response to Puigdemont, Rajoy said a clarification was "absolutely necessary". "I hope that in the hours that remain until the second deadline... you reply with all the clarity that citizens demand and the law requires," Rajoy said in his letter. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. While the world's attention is focused on North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, it has developed its hacking skills into "an almost perfect weapon" and earns as much as US$1 billion a year from cyberheists, The New York Times reported on Sunday. The North has more than 6,000 hackers trained to steal secrets and money from foreign governments and companies, the daily quoted a U.S. intelligence expert as saying. "Cyberheists may bring the North as much as $1 billion a year, or a third of the value of the nation's exports," the paper said. President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump will hold a bilateral summit in Seoul on Nov. 7, Cheong Wa Dae and the White House announced on Monday. Precise details of Trump's itinerary have not been released yet. Trump will visit Tokyo, Japan, where he starts his Asia tour on Nov. 5, before coming to Seoul. Security checks for U.S.-bound flight will be bolstered at airports around the world. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) notified airports and airlines around the world in June of a new set of tougher measures, aviation industry sources said on Monday. Passengers traveling to the U.S. will have to arrive at airports four to five hours before departure as they face tougher security screenings starting from later this month. Under the TSA's new measures, passengers will have to face a two- to three-minute interview at airline counters regarding the purpose of the visit and where they intend to stay, and undergo baggage checks at boarding gates. Certain passengers will encounter body checks. Passengers who use American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and other U.S. fliers as well as Korean low-cost carriers flying to Guam and Saipan are subject to the measures from Oct. 26. Flagship carriers Korean Air and Asiana Airlines have asked the TSA to defer the implementation until mid-January, when the new terminal at Incheon International Airport opens, but are still waiting for its decision. Carriers failing to abide by the TSA's regulations could have their flight licenses to the U.S. revoked. Airlines fear the measures could cause flight delays, while transfer passengers may end up missing connecting flights. One airline industry source said, "It looks like fliers heading to the U.S. will have to arrive at airports four to five hours ahead of their departure times rather than two to three hours." U.S.-bound flights account for around 30 percent of all flights departing from Incheon International Airport. / Carol Kaliff DANBURY - A morning-long program of discussions for parents of elementary school children is planned Saturday at the Rogers Park Middle School. The program, called Family Camp, is planned from 8:30 a.m. until noon on Saturday. Dozens of Connecticut hospitals are subject to fines this year for booting publicly insured patients before theyre either well enough to be discharged or set up to heal at home. Parsing Medicare data on rapid readmission, Kaiser Health News found that more than half of Americas hospitals have too many patients returning within a month of being discharged. Check out the slideshow above to see how Connecticuts hospitals stack up. Readmission penalties were enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act better known as "Obamacare" and first levied nearly six years ago. The review by Kaiser Health News, a nonprofit health care policy news service, found that 2,573 hospitals have been penalized for sending patients home too soon or with too little support. Hospitals for decades had pushed out publicly insured patients too early as a cost-cutting measure. One in five Medicare patients ended up hospitalized again within 30 days of being discharged. In assessing penalties, Medicare judges hospitals on the readmission rates of six types of patients those admitted for heart attacks, heart failure, pneumonia, chronic lung disease, hip or knee replacements, or coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Admissions from July 2013 to June 2016 were examined in the most recent review, which will see hospitals lose up to 3 percent of their Medicare reimbursements. The penalties are meant to ensure that hospitals dont profit from sending Medicare patients home prematurely. Heres how Kaiser Health News writer Jordan Rau described the motivation: The readmission penalties are intended to neutralize an unintended incentive in the way Medicare pays hospitals that had profited from return patients. Medicare pays hospitals a lump sum for a patient's stay based on the nature of the admission and other factors. Since hospitals generally are not paid extra if patients remain longer, they seek to discharge patients as soon as is medically feasible. If the patient ends up back in the hospital, it becomes a financial benefit as the hospital is paid for that second stay, filling a bed that would not have generated income if the patient had remained there continuously. The full Kaiser Health News report is available here. Early readmission rates have fallen since the ACA became law, dropping from 21 percent to 17 percent, according to the Kaiser Health News report. But progress has stalled in recent years, and Medicare is preparing to reorder the penalties so that hospitals serving low-income communities where patients are less likely to have primary care doctors will feel less of a pinch. CPC Central Committee plenum makes full preparation for key congress From:Xinhua | 2017-10-14 23:45 Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, speaks at the Seventh Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee in Beijing, capital of China. The plenum was held from Oct. 11 to 14 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ma Zhancheng) BEIJING, Oct. 14 (Xinhua) -- The four-day Seventh Plenary Session of the 18th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) concluded in Beijing Saturday with a communique issued. Entrusted by the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, delivered a work report at the meeting. It was decided that the 19th CPC National Congress, a five-yearly event, will be convened from Oct. 18 in Beijing, according to the communique. A report to be made by the 18th CPC Central Committee to the 19th CPC National Congress, a work report of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) to the congress, as well as an amendment to the CPC Constitution were discussed and approved. It was decided that the three documents will be submitted to the upcoming congress for examination and deliberation. The amendment to the CPC Constitution must include the key theories and strategic thought presented by the report to be delivered at the 19th CPC National Congress, according to a meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Sept. 18. The amended constitution must fully represent the latest sinicization of Marxism, new governance concepts, thoughts and strategies of the CPC Central Committee since the 18th CPC National Congress, as well as new experience in adhering to and strengthening Party leadership and in strict Party governance, it said. The plenum was presided over by the Political Bureau. Xi gave an explanation on the draft report to the 19th CPC National Congress, and Liu Yunshan, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, gave an explanation of the draft amendment to the CPC Constitution. Altogether 191 members and 141 alternate members of the CPC Central Committee attended the meeting, with members of the CCDI and leading officials of related departments present as non-voting delegates. Eleven new full members, who had been alternate members of the 18th CPC Central Committee, were admitted to the Central Committee during the plenum. "FOUR GREATS" The plenary session comprehensively analyzed the current situation and tasks and conducted in-depth discussion on several important issues which focus on "Four Greats," making full preparation for the 19th CPC National Congress. The issues under discussion include "engaging in the great battle with many new historical features, embarking on the new great project in Party building, advancing the great cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and realizing the great dream of revival of the Chinese nation under new situations," read the communique. The plenum fully affirmed the work of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee since the Sixth Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee held a year ago. The meeting reached consensus that the Political Bureau has held high the great banner of socialism with Chinese characteristics and thoroughly implemented the spirits of the 18th CPC National Congress and ensuing plenums of the Central Committee. The Political Bureau has followed the guidance of Marxism-Leninism, Mao Zedong Thought, Deng Xiaoping Theory, the important thought of Three Represents and the Scientific Outlook on Development, and thoroughly carried out the essence of Xi's series of important remarks and new governance concepts, thoughts and strategies, according to the communique. The Political Bureau has united and led the entire nation to continue seeking progress while maintaining stability for its economic work, keep in mind both the domestic and international situations, continue to adopt an overall approach to promote economic, political, cultural, social and ecological progress, as well as to advance coordinated development of the "Four Comprehensives." It has been firm in implementing new development concepts, advancing difficult reforms, building a clean CPC and fighting against corruption, effectively dealing with various risks and challenges, and innovating and improving macro control. It has also managed to coordinate work for stabilizing growth, promoting reform, adjusting economic structure, improving people's wellbeing, and preventing risks. It has deepened military reform and construction, taken initiative in handling well the work involving the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions and Taiwan, carried forward a big country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics in an all-round way. It strengthened Party discipline comprehensively, maintained stable and healthy economic development as well as social harmony and stability, according to the communique. LOYALTY TO PARTY Senior officials should remain loyal to the Party and willingly safeguard the authority of the Party's central leadership and the unity of the Party, said the communique issued after the key plenum. The Party's leading position should be ensured in all aspects and its role of overseeing all work and coordinating all parties should be guaranteed. The Party principles should be upheld and its policies implemented, the document stressed. All local authorities and departments should carry out the decisions of the CPC Central Committee in the first instance, it said. Senior cadres should set an example for all Party members to keep the Party and the people at heart and be keenly aware of what should and should not be done. They should display strong political and moral integrity, obedience to Party disciplines and resistance to corruption, the document said. Being a party of more than 89 million members and the ruling party leading more than 1.3 billion people in the drive for reform and modernization, without the authority and centralized leadership of the CPC Central Committee and without strict political disciplines, rules and a clean political environment, the CPC would compromise its creativity, cohesion and effectiveness, weaken the foundation and ability of its governance and fail its mission, the document said. The document called on all Party members to firmly safeguard the authority of the Party leadership, follow its lead and stay in accordance with the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at the core. "CRUSHING MOMENTUM" CONSOLIDATED China has gained and consolidated "crushing momentum" in its fight against corruption, read the communique, adjusting previous judgement made late last year at a Political Bureau meeting, which only stated that the fight "has gained crushing momentum." Participants at the session looked back on the work of the 18th CCDI over the past five years, and agreed that discipline inspection commissions at all levels have fulfilled the duties endowed by the Party Constitution, and have comprehensively pushed forward the strict governance of the Party. The discipline inspection commissions have been working hard to build a clean Party and fight against corruption, firmly upholding the eight-point frugality code, according to the communique. The communique also stated that the commissions have made full use of their inspections, prioritizing discipline, and have deepened the reform of discipline inspection and the country's supervisory system. Moreover, the commissions have built groups of cadres in discipline inspection and supervision that both the Party and the people can trust, while consistently improving the accountability system, uncompromisingly containing the spreading of corruption and purifying the political ecology within the CPC, the communique said. The plenum endorsed a decision made by the Political Bureau to expel Sun Zhengcai and eleven other senior Party officials from the CPC. "PROFOUND, FUNDAMENTAL" CHANGES Summarizing progress made by the CPC over the past five years, the communique said China has witnessed profound and fundamental changes during the period, while its achievements are comprehensive and groundbreaking. These historic changes and achievements indicate that China's development stands at a new historical starting point, which is of great and far-reaching significance for the cause of the Party and the country, according to the communique. The plenary session summarized the work of the past five years since the 18th CPC National Congress and held that the five years was an "extraordinary" period. China has made historic achievements in reform and opening up, as well as socialist modernization, it said. Over the past five years, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at the core raised a series of new concepts, thoughts and strategies, formulated a string of important guidelines and policies and rolled out many significant measures, it said. Many deep-rooted problems and issues that were too difficult to be resolved before have been addressed during that period, which promoted the historic changes for the cause of the Party and the country, according to the document. "The country also saw major achievements in economic development and major breakthroughs in comprehensively deepening reform. Democratic and legal system construction has taken great steps. Ideological and cultural construction has made important progress. People's living standards have constantly improved," it said. "The ecological environment has been remarkably improved. The building of a strong army has made new headway. New progress was made in work related to Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan," it said. The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee presides over the Seventh Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee in Beijing, capital of China. The plenum was held from Oct. 11 to 14 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Li Tao) Xi Jinping (C),Li Keqiang(3rd R),Zhang Dejiang(3rd L),Yu Zhengsheng(2nd R), Liu Yunshan (2nd L),Wang Qishan(1st R) andZhang Gaoli(1st L) attend the Seventh Plenary Session of the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee in Beijing, capital of China. The plenum was held from Oct. 11 to 14 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ma Zhancheng) Xi Jinping (C), Li Keqiang (3rd R), Zhang Dejiang (3rd L), Yu Zhengsheng (2nd R), Liu Yunshan (2nd L), Wang Qishan (1st R) and Zhang Gaoli (1st L) attend the Seventh Plenary Session of the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee in Beijing, capital of China. The plenum was held from Oct. 11 to 14 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ma Zhancheng) The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee presides over the Seventh Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee in Beijing, capital of China. The plenum was held from Oct. 11 to 14 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee presides over the Seventh Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee in Beijing, capital of China. The plenum was held from Oct. 11 to 14 in Beijing. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) TORONTO, Oct. 17, 2017 /CNW/ - Today, Bullfrog Power, Canada's leading green energy provider, is announcing that CDP, formerly Carbon Disclosure Project, the not-for-profit organization that houses the world's largest collection of self-disclosed corporate environmental data and founder of the global disclosure platform, has accredited Bullfrog Power as its first Canada-focused renewable energy partner. For more than a decade, Bullfrog Power has provided homes and businesses across Canada with a renewable energy option, helping them to reduce their environmental impact and support the development of community-based renewable energy projects. "Bullfrog Power has long been the leader when it comes to renewable energy in Canada," said Ron Seftel, CEO, Bullfrog Power. "Becoming an accredited solutions provider with CDP demonstrates that our comprehensive green energy solution remains the highest quality option for businesses in Canada wanting to lead the transition to the low-carbon economy." The full suite of Bullfrog's renewable energy products green electricity, green natural gas and green fuel make it the only company that gives any organization the ability to address all three scopes of that organization's emissions footprint (Learn more about Bullfrog's 3-scope solution for business). "Since 2005, BMO Financial Group has been a signatory and responder to CDP's climate change disclosure request as part of our commitment to environmental performance and public accountability," said Jim Johnston, Director, Environmental Sustainability & Compliance, BMO Financial Group. "The partnership between Bullfrog Power and CDP brings together two of BMO's key partners in reliably and transparently reducing and reporting on our operational footprint." "Companies that choose to disclose their emissions using CDP's guidelines need to have reputable choices when it comes to reducing the impact of the energy they consume," said Paul Robins, Head of Partnerships at CDP. "With Bullfrog Power, CDP now has a collaborator focusing exclusively on the Canadian market with a renewable energy solution for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact and support the development of new, community-based renewable energy projects across Canada." In addition to its partnership with CDP, Bullfrog Power counts WWF-Canada, David Suzuki Foundation, Pembina Institute and more among the bullfrogpowered nonprofits that support the work that the company is doing. Today, more than 50 environmental and health groups not only support Bullfrog, but also choose Bullfrog's green energy for their own facilities. In addition, Bullfrog Power is an accredited B Corporation that is regularly named to B Labs' "Best for the World" lists. About Bullfrog Power Bullfrog Power, Canada's leading green energy provider, offers renewable energy solutions that enable individuals and businesses to reduce their environmental impact, support the development of green energy projects in Canada and help create a cleaner, healthier world. As a Certified B Corporation, Bullfrog Power meets higher standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Thousands of individuals and businesses in Canada are doing their part to address climate change and air pollution by choosing green energy with Bullfrog Power. Sign up easily, quickly and affordably at bullfrogpower.com. Join the bullfrogpowered community online on Facebook (facebook.com/BullfrogPower), Instagram (@bullfrogpower) and Twitter (@bullfrogpower). About CDP CDP is an international non-profit that drives companies and governments to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, safeguard water resources and protect forests. Voted number one climate research provider by investors and working with institutional investors with assets of US$100 trillion, we leverage investor and buyer power to motivate companies to disclose and manage their environmental impacts. Nearly 6,000 companies with some 60 per cent of global market capitalization disclosed environmental data through CDP in 2016. This is in addition to the over 500 cities and 100 states and regions who disclosed, making CDP's platform one of the richest sources of information globally on how companies and governments are driving environmental change. CDP, formerly Carbon Disclosure Project, is a founding member of the We Mean Business Coalition. Please follow @CDP to find out more. www.cdp.net SOURCE Bullfrog Power For further information: Contact Bullfrog Power: Jon McKay, Corporate Communications Manager, 416.360.3464 ext. 239, [email protected]; Contact CDP: Camilla Lyngsby, Head of Media and Communications CDP North America, 646.668.4184, [email protected] Related Links www.bullfrogpower.com Protection Under CCAA Extended to January 22, 2018 Company Provides Update on After-Sale Service and Announces Leadership Change TORONTO, Oct. 16, 2017 /CNW/ - Sears Canada Inc. ("Sears Canada", "Sears" or the "Company") is announcing that it has received approval from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) (the "Court") to proceed with a liquidation of all of its inventory and furniture, fixtures and equipment located at its remaining stores (the "Liquidation Sales"). The Liquidation Sales are expected to commence on October 19. Sears Canada and certain of its subsidiaries (the "Sears Canada Group") were granted an Initial Order and protection under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act ("CCAA") on June 22, 2017. As authorized by the Court, the Company, with the assistance of its financial advisors, conducted a comprehensive sale and investment solicitation process to seek out proposals for the acquisition of, or investment in, the Sears Canada Group's business, assets and/or leases. Sears Canada received and obtained court approval of going-concern transactions for various lines of business but following exhaustive efforts, no viable transaction for the Company to continue as a going concern has been received to date. Accordingly, Sears Canada, with the recommendation of its advisors and approval of the Monitor, FTI Consulting Inc., sought and received an order authorizing the Company to proceed with the Liquidation Sales. The Court also extended the Stay Period to January 22, 2018. Sears Canada has a long and well-documented history of being a great place to shop and work. Sears thanks its customers for their loyalty and support since 1953, when it began serving Canadians coast to coast under its then corporate name, Simpsons-Sears Ltd. Sears also extends heartfelt thanks to its associates, both current and former, who helped build the Company into what was, for much of its existence, Canada's number one retailer, providing great value through quality products, exceptional services and outstanding prices. Sears, thanks to the dedication and hard work of its associates, also earned a reputation of trust and goodwill providing significant financial and moral support to community groups and charitable organizations that reflected the interests of the communities that Sears served. Over the past 18 months, Sears Canada had embarked on a reinvention plan that had begun to gain traction with customers. Unfortunately, despite the outstanding efforts of dedicated associates across the Company, Sears Canada does not have the financial resources to provide it with the time necessary to complete its reinvention. After October 18, Sears will no longer be in a position to honour Sears Protection Agreements to customers. Most merchandise normally sold by Sears comes with a one-year manufacturer's warranty, which will be available to customers directly from the manufacturers as is presently the case. Refunds on protection agreements will be allowed to customers that have purchased them within the past 30 days per normal procedures. Servicing on furniture and mattresses under the Guardsman (Valspar) protection plan will continue to be honoured in accordance with the protection plan documentation provided to customers at time of purchase. Delivery service will continue to be available until November 30, 2017. The Company will continue to accept Sears gift cards and redeem Sears Club Points during the liquidation period. During the liquidation period, all sales will be final and not returnable or exchangeable. Sears continues to seek a purchaser for the Sears Canada Product Repair Services (PRS) business but the terms upon which an acquirer of that business would provide services to Sears customers are not known at this time. Leadership Announcement Brandon G. Stranzl has resigned from the Board of Directors. In light of the liquidation, his services are no longer required as Executive Chairman. The Company thanks Brandon for his service to Sears Canada and wishes him well in the future. Additional Information The contractual joint venture ("JV") of Gordon Brothers Canada ULC, Hilco Global (through its Canadian division, Merchant Retail Solution ULC), Tiger Capital Group, LLC and Great American Group , LLC (through its Canadian division GA Retail Canada ULC) has been retained by the Company to operate the Liquidation Sales at all of its full-line and Sears Home locations. The JV group has significant experience in Canada, having conducted the liquidation sale in the Sears Canada stores previously announced for closing this summer as well as liquidation sales for other retailers in Canada including Target Stores, Express and BCBG. Copies of Sears Canada's motion materials are available on the Monitor's website at http://cfcanada.fticonsulting.com/searscanada. Information regarding the CCAA process may also be obtained by calling the Monitor's hotline at 416-649-8113 or 1-855-649-8113 (toll free), or by email at [email protected]. Sears Canada will continue to provide updates regarding its restructuring as developments warrant. About Sears Canada Sears Canada Inc. is an independent Canadian digital and store-based retailer whose head office is in Toronto. The Company operates as a separate entity from its U.S.-based co-founder, now known as Sears Holdings Corp., based in Illinois. Forward Looking Information Certain matters set forth in this news release including, but not limited to, statements with respect to the Sears Canada Group's CCAA application and proceedings are forward looking. These forward-looking statements reflect management's current views and are based on certain assumptions, including assumptions as to future operating conditions and courses of action, restructuring alternatives, economic conditions, and other factors that management believes are appropriate. Such forward looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in these statements, including the risk that the restructuring may be protracted as well as those risks and uncertainties identified under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in Sears Canada's management's discussion and analysis for the 52-week period ended January 28, 2017, and for the 13-week period ended April 29, 2017, available at www.sedar.com. These forward-looking statements are made as at the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them, either publicly or otherwise, to reflect new events, information or circumstances. For more information regarding the Sears Canada Restructuring Enquiries for the Monitor may be directed to: FTI Consulting: Telephone: 416.649.8113 Toll Free: 1 855-649-8113 Email: [email protected] Web: http://cfcanada.fticonsulting.com/searscanada. SOURCE Sears Canada Inc. For further information: Media Contact: Joel Shaffer, [email protected]; Peter Block, [email protected] Related Links http://www.sears.ca Connecticut utility regulators have opened an investigation into claims made in an Environmental Defense Fund report that the natural gas utilities of two Connecticut-based companies manipulated space on transmission lines, driving up the price of the fuel as well as the cost of electricity in New England. Word of the investigation by the states Public Utilities Regulatory Authority comes less than a week after the allegations against Eversource Energy and Avangrid became public. The reports findings allege local gas distribution companies run by the two companies engaged in scheduling practices that deliberately manipulated the market to create shortage conditions that raised electricity prices by $3.6 billion over the past three years. PURA has not yet released a schedule for comments and hearings as part of its investigation. But the allegations have already attracted the interest of Connecticuts U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and the states Office of Consumer Counsel, which represents the interest of the states utility ratepayers. Blumenthal, in a letter sent to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Neil Chatterjee, called for a federal investigation into the claims made in the report. While the motive remains unclear, I urge FERC to immediately investigate allegations of over withholding of natural gas by these companies in Connecticut, Blumenthal said in his letter to Chatterjee. If it is found that market manipulation has occurred, FERC should expeditiously order a ban or other appropriate restriction on this practice and ensure that affected consumers are swiftly and fully compensated. Additionally, I request that you examine any specific pricing policies that may have encouraged such market behavior and recommend policy changes that can be enacted to prevent this occurrence from continuing in the future. Joe Rosenthal, the OCCs principal attorney, said he was not surprised that PURA decided to investigate the claims made in the report, even though some of the issues may be outside of the jurisdiction of state regulators. Anytime somebody suggests that a utilitys method of operations is different from other utilities and has that kind of potential in terms of price impact, it warrants further questions and investigations, Rosenthal said. We understand why they reserve certain levels of natural gas capacity and maybe there are legitimate reasons for this. Orange-based Avangrid operates two natural gas distribution companies in Connecticut and one in Massachusetts while Eversource, which is headquartered in Hartford, also has natural gas utilities in those two states. Mitch Gross, an Eversource Energy spokesman, said company officials are confident that any review would demonstrate that we are always acting in the best interest of our customers and communities. This report is a complete fabrication as evidenced by the lack of credibility it has received in the industry, Gross said. The underlying concept is not only false and misleading, but concerningly irresponsible as it lacks any understanding of how gas procurement actually works. Our gas distribution business is carefully regulated and the gas supply we purchase for our customers is a strict pass through cost meaning we dont benefit from higher prices derived from withholding. Michael West, a spokesman for Avangrid, said the companys contractual agreements are designed to guarantee that its natural gas utilities have the amount of fuel they need to supply customers around the clock, 365 days a year. They are designed to insulate our customers from uncertainty, West said. I will say the company is wiling to consider any changes that would reduce energy costs while at the same time protecting the needs of our customers. Two trade groups, one representing the natural gas industry in the Northeast and the other representing a broader coalition of energy users, have also assailed the findings of the report. The Massachusetts-based Northeast Gas Association called the report a profoundly misleading and inaccurate analysis. The two utilities cited in their report did nothing irregular, improper, or legally questionable with their reservation of gas capacity on an interstate natural gas pipeline, organization officials said in a statement. In fact, they were acting with the full approval of regulators and in the best interests of their customers and their communities. For EDF to portray these public utilities responsible planning and operations as nefarious only highlights the biased agenda of the report and its sponsors. David Holt, president of the Washington, D.C.-based Consumer Energy Alliance, urged policymakers and the public to reject the findings of the MIT report. Its long past time New Englands policymakers and the public stop listening to groups with an agenda that only puts families and businesses in further financial hardship especially those trying to cover up their role in creating sky-high energy bills, Holt said in a statement. If EDF is really concerned about the prices consumers are paying for electricity and home heating, they should do better to come to the table with realistic solutions that could help ease the situation theyve helped create in the region. The membership ranks of the Consumer Energy Alliance include nearly 90 energy companies, according to the groups website. Editors note: This story has been changed to reflect that the Environmental Defense Fund produced the report. luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Breaking news out of Hartford a Republican and a Democrat tied the knot. Now if the legislative colleagues of Art Linares and Caroline Simmons could put aside their political differences to end a budget stalemate, the newlyweds could go on their honeymoon. The GOP senator from Westbrook and House Democrat from Stamford became Mr. and Mrs. on Saturday, with colleagues celebrating their cross-the-aisle matrimony in a postcard setting at the mouth of Connecticut River in Old Lyme. But with the balance of power teetering in the Legislature the Senate is tied 18-18 and Democrats control the House 79-72 the power couple was forced to postpone their honeymoon trip to South Africa and the Seychelles. The two-week sojourn had been the buzz at the Capitol during budget negotiations: Would they or wouldnt they go? Caroline and I had the most incredible weekend of our lives celebrating our marriage with our family and friends, Linares told Hearst Connecticut Media. We decided to postpone our planned honeymoon, but we enjoyed a few wonderful nights at the Old Saybrook Point Inn and are excited to spend two days this week at the Grace Mayflower Inn in Washington, Connecticut. We are looking forward to getting back to work on the budget and serving our constituents, he said. So the safari and snorkeling will have to wait for Simmons and Linares, who at least received the NutriBullet PRO 900 series juicer and Cuisinart slow cooker that were on their registry at Bloomies. GoFundMe campaign to oust Malloy nears $5K Never before has paying off a politician been so out in the open, even in Corrupticut. The morning radio duo Chaz and AJ has started up a GoFundMe campaign to entice Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to leave office 14 months early with the hashtag #govsgottago. As of Monday, $4,641 had been raised for Malloys severance package. If you live in Connecticut, then you already know: The Governor has really screwed this place up, the tandem wrote. He doesnt want to be here, and we dont want him to be here, so lets make this happen. My, how the times have changed for the Democrat, who used to be a regular on the program and even obliged for a rock em, sock em robots duel with Republican foe Tom Foley during the final throes of their gubernatorial rematch in 2014. Mired in the longest budget impasse of any state in the nation, Malloy hasnt been a guest on the show in quite some time. We understand that the on-air characters that shock jocks play are meant to be entertaining with their outlandish antics. But the reality is, for state leaders and for most taxpayers, the state budget is a very serious matter, said Malloy spokesman Chris Collibee. And the people of this state are counting on us to remain focused on the task at hand and to not be sidetracked by such silly stunts. To that end, the administration continues to work with legislative leaders in earnest toward a budget that puts Connecticut on the right track. Chaz & AJ set a goal of $1 billion for their GoFundMe campaign. No word on what the pair we tweeted at them plans to do with the money. Heck, maybe the state should do a GoFundMe campaign to wipe away its $3.6 billion deficit. Drew confidant spreads the wealth Luxembourg, a founding member of the European Union tucked between France, German and Belgium, is a Jeopardy category unto itself. Its not to be confused with Geoff Luxenberg, a former state representative-turned-Democratic political consultant-turned-chief of staff to Middletown mayor and gubernatorial candidate Dan Drew. Connecticut, it turns out, is Luxenbergs Monopoly board. The Drew adviser has made at least 53 political contributions for a total of $12,140 to Democrats statewide this year, filings with the state Elections Enforcement Commission show. Many have been to Democratic Town Committees, from Norwalk to North Haven and from Stamford to Sherman. Getting in good with local party stalwarts is the name of the name in Connecticuts decentralized political system, as town committees effectively pick the delegates for their statewide nominating conventions, which will be held next May. Candidates need at least15 percent of delegates to appear on a primary ballot, otherwise they have to go the petitioning route. ORANGE Theres a new career on the menu for the towns recently retired assistant police chief. Anthony Cuozzo Sr. has taken what seems like a giant leap from being assistant police chief to becoming the new chief operating officer of Chips Family Restaurants. But the jobs are more similar than people might think, said Cuozzo, who had never before worked in the restaurant business. The dynamics of policing and (the) task at hand are different, but the restaurant business is 85 percent customer service and 15 percent food, while the police department was 100 percent community service, Cuozzo said. I dont know the secret recipe for the pancakes, and I dont need to know that. Chips CEO George Chatzopoulos, who owns the restaurant chain along with his sister, Konstantina Bajko, said he tapped Cuozzo for the job because hes a people person. He brings a lot to the table, Chatzopoulos said. He has a good personality, he connects with people and hes likeable. In his new COO position, Cuozzo will build aspects of the corporate office located in Orange and work on development of management staff at all six Chips locations in Orange, Fairfield, Trumbull, Southbury, Southington and Wethersfield. He also will oversee aspects of The Simple Greek restaurant in West Hartford, also owned by Chatzopoulos. Chatzopoulos will have more time to oversee planning and development for his restaurants, including new Chips locations. Cuozzo has an undergraduate degree in criminal justice, and a masters degree in leadership from Albertus Magnus College, the latter of which was designed to be applied in the business world, he said. He has applied it to police management and said hes excited about applying it in business. Cuozzo, who retired Sept. 8 at 50 years old, began his police career as a patrol officer 27 years ago, moving through the ranks as a DARE officer, sergeant, lieutenant and assistant chief five years ago. He also attended the FBI Academy in 2005 and teaches leadership at Albertus Magnus. Ive been lucky to have a diverse police career, he said. My most favorite part of it was dealing with people at work and in the community. Cuozzo grew up in Orange and was encouraged by his mother, Carole, to go into public service because he had that kind of personality at a young age. Later, he was inspired by the late Orange police Officer Robert Stankye, whom he had contact with in school, to fulfill the calling, as he puts it, through police work. His father, Arnold Cuozzo Sr., who practiced service to others through acts of kindness as a pharmacist in West Haven, taught his son to lead by example and treat everyone the way youd want to be treated, Cuozzo said. Cuozzo said as a police officer he dealt with the best and worst in people. He remembered as a patrolman helping a drug addict who had been arrested for shoplifting get through her drug withdrawal symptoms and felt good when she returned sober months later to tell him, Believe it or not, keeping me here made me see I had to kick the habit. He loved responding to the happy call that a woman had given birth in the commuter parking lot in a car after not making it to the hospital, and felt comfort in being able to sensitively deliver news of tragedy to the loved ones of victims. He also found fulfillment as an accident investigator. Orange Police Chief Robert J. Gagne agrees Cuozzos superb people skills will serve him well in the new job. The energy and positive enthusiasm that he brought to his duties every day was exemplary, Gagne said. Orange is a safer community as a result of all of his efforts. His experience will be greatly missed, but the entire Department wishes him well in all of his future endeavors. Cuozzo said he was happy at the police department, but when the COO opportunity came up he went for it because he knew that in a second career, I wanted to do something that was a surprise every day. Cuozzo and Chatzopoulos became friendly years ago through police department activities, and got closer when Cuozzos daughter began working at Chips as a server. Chatzopoulos brought up the COO idea at a barbecue and Cuozzo said, If youre serious call me next week. He got the call. Cuozzo said hell bring perspective as a consumer rather than a restaurateur and among his goals are to hire the right people, provide training opportunities, hold people accountable. Cuozzo said he sees his role as a manager, leader, motivator, developer. Hell also refine and review policy and create a procedural manual. In organizational leadership the most important tool is communication, he said, and that includes listening to what employees have to say. Hell ask them to set goals just as he has always done. The restaurants, Cuozzo said, will retain that family-run flavor that has made them so popular. We dont want anyone to go to Chips and get a corporate feel, Cuozzo said. Hes only worked in the restaurant business for about a month, but Cuozzo is already throwing around restaurant jargon such as back of house, front of house. He will eventually get into the kitchen to see the magic. Its amazing to me you can place an order and 8 minutes later a meal comes out. The sheer pace of it, Cuozzo said. Im really excited. Chatzopoulos said he asks Cuozzo every day whether hes still excited and the answer is always, yes. I think Anthonys going to do an excellent job, Chatzopoulos said. NEW HAVEN City Planner Karyn Gilvarg, who has seen the citys preservation ethic grow and its downtown become a development mecca over the last 23 years, plans to leave the office next month. I hate that word retire, Gilvarg said in an interview Monday after the department heads were advised of her decision. Gilvarg said she plans to take a year off before deciding what her next career will be and will split her time between here and New Orleans, where she and her husband have a second home.. Appointed by former Mayor John DeStefano Jr. in August 1994, she said she will leave in mid-November. It was the right time for me, Gilvarg said. She said the next four-year appointment for a city planner takes place in February. I wanted to give the mayor enough time to do a robust search, Gilvarg said. Over the last quarter-century, there have been good and bad economic times for the city, she said. But over the last decade, the planner said it has been rewarding to see the significant investment by large corporations in both business and residential development. It has been building and may not have been apparent to the public, she said. Gilvarg said the zoning for 200 College St., which is now apartments by Centerplan, goes back to 2006. The conversion of offices to residential at 152 Temple St. happened two decades ago. She said a grant she was able to land around 1996 on housing downtown showed there was a potential market for it in New Haven. Gilvarg watched the trend of people wanting to live in an affordable urban environment outside of Manhattan and kept pushing the results of that study to keep that seed alive. She said it has been rewarding to watch the conversion and upgrading of the block bound by Crown, High, George and College and the decision by developers to keep the same scale with a mix of architectural styles, while preserving historical elements. I really enjoy looking at that block, Gilvarg said. One of the other major accomplishment during her tenure was seeing all the citys schools either rebuilt or upgraded under DeStefano. Trained as an architect at the Yale School of Architecture, she said she learned planning and public administration on the job under City Planners David Holmes and John Sawyer from 1978 through 1983. She said as they started to dismantle the Redevelopment Agency during former Mayor Biagio DiLietos administration, they learned from the mistakes of the past where preservation was ignored in favor of wholesale demolition. Gilvarg said the office is now back to 7 employees, the same as it was when she first came on the job, although it did grow to some 15 people at one point. Close to Mayor Toni Harp, Gilvarg said she didnt want to leave behind a lot of loose ends that would be harmful to future growth as the commission engages in an update of zoning. I totally support her, she said. NEW HAVEN New Havens Board of Education has approved a new contract for substitute teachers, with an eye on competing with other districts when looking to fill classroom vacancies. Before the contract was approved, uncertified substitute teachers walking into a classroom on their first day made $62.40 per day. Under the new, five-year contract, that substitute teacher makes $75 retroactively as of July 1, which increases to $80 in the 2018-19 school year. The main goals from our perspective are outlined in the memo but essentially were to engage in a market adjustment to line up our Union rates with those of surrounding towns and to streamline a few other aspects related to pay which allows the compensation and tracking to be more smooth, said New Haven Public Schools Chief Operating Officer Will Clark in an email. With the adjustment and with the union rate benefits we hope to attract additional qualified subs to support the district as needed. The contract also reduces the number of days needed for a substitute teacher to receive the union rate from 60 to 45 days. A unionized, uncertified substitute teacher makes $102.09 per day beginning on July 1, 2018. Permanent substitute teachers, who cover classrooms for long-term vacancies such as medical leaves, will be making $132 per day by the beginning of the 2019 school year, an increase from $120 per day before July 1, 2017. Through the contract streamlining folks who stick with us get and become Union members get the Union rate retroactive so there is an incentive to stick with us which allows for some consistency of hiring and talent, Clark said. David Cicarella, president of the New Haven Federation of Teachers, said the district needs to become more competitive with surrounding towns if it hopes to get high quality substitute teachers in its schools. Theyre slim contracts, but we added some rights and privileges. Its higher wages for them, Cicarella said. He said when he views the contract from a safe distance, he believes it to be reasonable within the context of the area and state. According to personnel officials in Hamden Public Schools, uncertified substitute teachers there make $75 per day; in West Haven, officials said uncertified substitute teachers make $70 per day and certified substitute teachers make $75 per day. Personnel officials in East Haven said the district very rarely hires substitute teachers directly, but their daily rate is $80. Representatives of Kelly Educational Staffing, a firm that places substitute teachers in many Connecticut districts, including East Haven and North Haven, did not return a request for comment on other districts per diem rates. I think its something we have to do, said Ed Joyner, president of the school board. Urban communities have higher absentee rates for teachers, and if a kid is absent on the day a certified teacher is present and then present on a day we have a sub, then that could be a problem. At multiple school board meetings, several paraprofessionals, including Local 3429 President Claudine Wilkins-Chambers, have said the districts paraprofessionals are often asked to perform duties outside of their contract to cover for teacher absences. Wilkins-Chambers did not return multiple requests for comment. We shouldnt be asking people to work outside of their contracted responsibilities, Joyner said. Whatever steps we have to take to make sure everybody feels like they are only being held accountable for what their role is and theyre supported, we have to do that. In a memo to the school boards finance committee, Clark said the initial projected increase is $200,000 for the year, and $500,000 over the period of the contract, ending in 2020. brian.zahn@hearstmediact.com NEW HAVEN The city is applying for federal money from a grant it has received annually for more than 20 years to provide HIV/AIDS treatment for low-income residents in New Haven and Fairfield County. The Ryan White CARE Act program provides funding for numerous services for HIV/AIDS treatment services in five sub-regions between the two counties. They include Greater New Haven; Waterbury, Meriden and the Naugatuck Valley; Greater Bridgeport; Norwalk and Stamford; and Greater Danbury. New Haven Health Department Project Director Thomas E. Butcher said the region first became eligible for the grant in 1993, which allowed them begin funding services in 1994, when the city received $2.1 million. Butcher has served as program director since 1995. Basically, about those five service delivery (areas), people shouldnt have to travel more than 20 miles to get their services, Butcher said. We try to ease access to people living with HIV and try to keep them local. The city is applying for $5.98 million in federal funding for the 2018-19 fiscal year. According to the programs executive summary, the grant is providing $5.69 million during the current fiscal year. The grant pays for treatment for medical case management, mental health services, outpatient ambulatory services, housing services, oral health care, medical transportation, and several other treatment services. The citys request for funding is procedural, since its applied for it every year since 1993. The applications submission was approved by the Board of Alders under unanimous consent during their Monday meeting. City Health Director Byron Kennedy submitted a letter to the alders as part of the submission request. Kennedy was unavailable for comment on Tuesday. With these funds, the New Haven/Fairfield Counties Eligible Metropolitan Area (EMA) can continue providing AIDS emergency services to individuals infected and/or affected by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) living within both counties, Kennedy wrote in his letter. Funds are dispersed through New Haven because it was a jurisdiction that had among the highest rate of HIV infection when it first applied to the grant, Butcher said. New Haven is in a selective group of regions and cities eligible to apply to the grant, which has several grant types available to local, state and private agencies or providers . Butcher said there are roughly 6,200 HIV-positive people in their programs footprint in New Haven and Fairfield counties. Not all are eligible to receive assistance for programs funded by the CARE Act, however. Butcher said eligible patients make less than $40,000 a year and are often people living in poverty. This equates to about 2,500 people eligible and served by the program. We are covering people that really are stretched, that dont have a lot of options that need support, Butcher said. The amount of money received has been decreasing, Butcher said. The city received $135 less this fiscal year than the 2016 fiscal calendar. The city has received as much as $7.2 million in previous years, Butcher said. A decrease in funding can be attributed to the programs success in treating patients, though Butcher said thats not a cause for celebration. Even though the number of new cases that we get continues to do down, I still have an increasing number who are living with the virus that have been living with the virus since the 1980s, Butcher said, adding, We still have a responsibility to provide care and state-of-the-art care with fewer dollars. The programs footprint has some of the lowest rates of viral suppression rates in the country, Butcher said. A persons viral load is what makes them infectious, Butchers said; a higher viral load means a person would have a higher chance of transmitting the virus. Treatment options allow for a persons viral load to be reduced to undetectable levels, though that doesnt mean theyre cured. Our virus suppression rate is 86 percent. Nationally, the viral suppression rate is about 55 percent, Butcher said. AIDS Project New Haven Executive Director Chris Cole said the federal funding is a, gigantic part of their funding, which allows them to provide services to patients living in Greater New Haven. There are 52 regions across the country eligible for the Part A funding New Havens region receives, Cole said, which are all HIV/AIDS high-impact regions. The treatment is key because it functions as preventative effort: Treatment helps HIV-positive patients be less likely to be infectious. People who are in treatment for their HIV disease are not infectious to other people; people who are not in treatment are infectious, Cole said. (The) goal is to help patients live healthy, happy lives, but also reduce the communitys viral load. The Ryan White Care Act is named after Ryan White, who became the face of HIV/AIDS awareness after contracting AIDS from a blood transfusion in December 1984. White died in April 1990, living five years longer than predicted, according to Health Resources & Services Administrations website . The legislation bearing his name was passed by Congress months later, in August 1990. According to Kennedys letter, the grant application deadline is Oct. 30. The city would receive an award notification in February 2018. New Haven, Hartford and Boston are the only other region in New England who are eligible for Part A funding . I think we work very hard to ensure that clients have access to good, quality health care. I think we do that very well, Cole said. Reach Esteban L. Hernandez at 203-680-9901 Ken Burns and Lynn Novick can be commended for the PBS film series The Vietnam War, especially their rich and moving interviews. Yet this series has one deep flaw. The anti-war movement is misrepresented and a series of decades-long myths are perpetuated. Veterans against the war, Vietnamese against the war, fringe groups like the Weathermen are all depicted, but the mainstream opposition, those of us who wrote tens of thousands of letters to our government officials, who made thousands of visits to our representatives at home offices and in D.C., are not represented. Catholic opposition led by the Berrigan brothers is missing as are the voices of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, the Rev. William Sloan Coffin, and any number of civilian leaders and groups such as the Fellowship of Reconciliation, Clergy and Laity Concerned, and the American Friends Service Committee. Except for a brief reference to the Rev. Martin Luther Kings historic speech at Riverside Church, the massive center of opposition is without representation, missing in action. DERBY Residents concerned that the former Marshall Lane Manor nursing home may get converted into a dormitory housing international high school students will want to mark their calendars for this. The owner of APEX International Education Partners LLC, or AIEP, who submitted an application to the Planning and Zoning Commission last week about his intentions for the property, is inviting residents to a neighborhood meeting. The meeting has been set for 6:30 p.m. Nov. 2 at the Marshall Lane Manor building, 101 Marshall Lane. Attorney Dominick Thomas, representing AIEP founder David Guererra, sent letters to residents and encouraged all those in the surrounding neighborhood to attend This will allow you the opportunity to review the site plans and floor plans and ask questions in a more informal and open session, Thomas said in the letter. (AIEP) is looking forward to presenting its plan to you, and answering any questions and addressing any concerns. The PZC earlier this month approved a zone change that potentially could allow a dormitory, with special exception approval, in the former nursing home. The vote was preceded by a lengthy public hearing that drew more than 100 residents, many who expressed concerns and fears about AIEPs plans for the site. PZC Chairman Ted Estwan confirmed that AIEP submitted an application to the commission last week. Estwan said the commission, at its regular monthly meeting Tuesday, will accept receipt of the application and schedule a public hearing. The zone change added education dormitory residences to the citys existing regulations that would be allowed in residential zones, only by a special exception, and enables the commission more control over such applications, Estwan had said. Thomas acknowledged that while the PZC would be holding a public hearing of its own, possibly in mid-November, he said the neighborhood meeting prior to that will give residents a chance to discuss their concerns and ask questions in a much more informal setting. He encouraged residents to call or email his office at 203-735-9521 or djt@cohen-thomas.com if they plan on attending. Guerrera would like to convert the 35,000-square-foot nursing home, which closed in June 2015 due to financial issues, into a dorm that would house foreign students who during the day would attend various private and public schools across Connecticut, including Fairfield Prep, Notre Dame, Sacred Heart Academy, Lauralton Hall and Holy Cross High School, among others. According to the proposal, Thomas said the dorm would house up to 110 students and up to eight residential staff. He noted that the existing building, situated on 3.4 acres, would not require any major exterior renovations and no additions. The interior would include renovations to kitchen and dining areas, a fitness and exercise facility, common areas, study rooms which would also be used for guidance counseling and tutoring rooms, library, administrative offices and a technology or media center. Thomas said additional landscaping and buffering would be installed around the property. In addition, students housed at the dorm would not be able to have cars, or have visitors other than family who would not permitted to stay overnight. Students would be transported to their respective high schools via school buses or vans. jean.sos@snet.net The onslaught against former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar in the hands of the Buhari government continued on Monday as the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, sealed the headquarters of his company Intels, in Onne, Rivers State.DAIlY POST gathered that the company was sealed over unremitted taxes.Intels operates in a Free Zone Authority located in Nigerias Niger Delta.FIRS is accusing the oil services company, Intels of operating illegally within the zone.An impeccable source close to Alhaji Atiku confirmed the seal to our corespondent Monday night.Yes. They (FIRS) posted stickers on the company premises asking for tax to be paid. But Onne is a duty free zone. This is shocking. Nigeria is a joke, the source fumed.Calls to FIRS Director of Communication, Wahab Gbadamosi, to explain the agencys action went unanswered.The development occurred barely a week after the Nigerian government directed the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to terminate the boats pilotage monitoring and supervision agreement that the agency has with Intels.Government says the contract with Intels, a leading integrated logistics and facilities services provider in the maritime and oil and gas logistics sectors of the country, was void ab initio.Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mallam Abubakar Malami (SAN), in a letter dated September 27, 2017 to the Managing Director of the NPA, Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman, said that the agreement, which has allowed Intels to receive revenue on behalf of NPA for 17 years, violates the Nigerian Constitution, especially in view of the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy of government.Intels, also co-owned by Mr. Gabriel Volpi, an Italian national who also has Nigerian citizenship, will lose several millions of dollars in commissions for the monitoring and supervision pilotage services it handles on behalf of NPA on Nigerian coastal waters.In the maritime industry, pilotage is compulsory for all ships of 35 metres overall length or greater unless a valid Pilotage Exemption Certificate is held by the ships master.In return for the service, ship owners/companies are required to pay a pilotage fee, which Intels collects on NPAs behalf and retains 28 per cent of the revenue as commission for the services rendered.In a memo, Malami stated that the agreement violates Sections 80(1) and 162(1) and (10) of the constitution, and wondered that the parties NPA and Intels did not avert their minds to the relevant provisions when they were negotiating the agreement in 2010.In the letter titled: Request for Clarification of Conflict Between Executed Agreement and Federal Government Treasury Single Account Policy, the attorney general said: I refer to your letter dated 31st May 2017, ref: MD/17/MF/Vol.XX/583 in respect of the above subject matter wherein you sought clarification on the legal issues implicated by the continuous implementation of the Managing Agent Contract Agreement dated 11th February 2010 executed between the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Intels Nigeria Limited for the provision of boats pilotage operations, in the light of the Federal Government of Nigerias Treasury Singe Account (TSA) policy.Upon my review of your letter under reference and the relevant agreements, I have been able to conclude inevitably that the terms of the agreement as agreed by parties and the dynamics of its implementation which permits Intels to receive revenue generated on behalf of NPA ab initio, clearly violates express provisions of Sections 80(1) and 162(1) and (10) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). It is thus curious that parties did not avert their minds to the above provisions of the constitution whilst negotiating the agreement.The inherent illegality of the agreement as formed has since been expounded by the TSA policy issued by the Head of Service of the Federation on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria directing all ministries, departments and agencies to collect payment of all revenues due to the federal government or any of her agencies through the TSA.The objective of the presidential directive (TSA policy) in exercise of the executive powers of the president under Section 5 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) was in furtherance of the spirit and intent of Sections 80 and 162 of the constitution and to aid transparency in government revenue collection and management.NPA being an agency of the federal government is bound by the TSA policy and has not howsoever been exempt therefrom. Due to the constitutional nature of the TSA, where there is a conflict between the TSA and the terms of the agreement, the TSA shall prevail.Therefore all monies due to the NPA currently being collected by Intels and any other agents/third parties on behalf of NPA must henceforth be paid into the TSA or any of the sub-accounts linked thereto in the Central Bank of Nigeria (information of the account will be communicated in due course) in accordance with the TSA policy.For the avoidance of doubt, the agreement for the monitoring and supervision of pilotage districts in the Exclusive Economic Zone of Nigeria on terms inter alia that permits Intels to receive revenue generated in each pilotage district from service boat operations in consideration for 28% of total revenue as commission to Intels is void, being a contract ex facie illegal as formed for permitting Intels to receive federal government revenue contrary to the express provisions of Sections 80(1) and 162(1) and (10) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which mandates that such revenue must be paid into the Federation Account/Consolidated Revenue Fund.In the premise of the above, the conflict between the agreement and the TSA policy presents a force majeure event under the agreement, and NPA should forthwith commence the process of issuing the relevant notices to Intels exiting the agreement which indeed was void ab initio.Reacting, Intels vowed to sue the Buhari government over the termination. Nigeria President, Muhammadu Buhari, will on Wednesday depart for Istanbul, in Turkey, to participate in the ninth Summit of the Developing 8 (D-8) scheduled for Friday.The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina disclosed this in a statement made available to DAILY POST on Tuesday.Adesina said the President would be accompanied on the trip by ministers, top government officials, including the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Hameed Ali.He said President Buhari would use the occasion of the D-8 Summit to bolster warm and growing ties across a broad range of areas of cooperation with leaders of the D8-member countries, namely Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey.The Summit with the theme, Expanding Opportunities through Cooperation, will among other things, focus on cooperation in the areas of agriculture, trade, transport, energy and increased private sector participation among member-countries.During the Summit, which will also mark the 20th anniversary of the organisation established to improve the developing countries positions in the world economy, Buhari will highlight the significant show of confidence in Nigerias business environment and economy.He would also affirm Nigerias resolve to work with D-8 member-countries on many key areas, including peace and security, economy and trade.At the end of the summit, the Heads of State and Government would adopt a communique, also known as the Istanbul Declaration.The Special Adviser said that prior to the D-8 Summit, President Buhari, at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, would participate in an official working visit to Ankara, the capital city.In Ankara, the President will have a tete-a-tete with his Turkish counterpart while delegations from both countries will hold discussions in various fields including defence cooperation, security, educational and migration issues.Adesina said President Buhari would also visit the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara where he will meet with the Speaker, Ismail Kahraman. A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has faulted the sealing of Intels, a company belonging to the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, by the Federal Inland Revenue (FIRS).He said the action was a ploy to weaken him politically ahead of the 2019 presidential election.Frank in a statement, Monday, in Abuja warned federal government agencies, including FIRS not to drag itself into the politics of 2019 elections.According to the statement; This is not the time to play politics with the issues of governance. Could it be another ploy to weaken Alhaji Atiku Abubakar ahead of his perceived ambition for 2019?It is pertinent to note that in the history, since the establishment of Intels, no federal government has ever persecuted the company like this present government. The action of the FIRS, NPA, and FTZ as agencies of government is and can be seen to be attempts to humiliate Atiku.How come FIRS just realized the non-payment of tax by Intels? The export free zone just realized that Intels is operating illegally. If the agencies just realized all these, it means they have shown total failure in discharging their duties. Lets learn to follow due process, he warned.However, asking the presidency to promptly intervene before it gets out of hands, Comrade Frank added: I want to believe that the presidency is not aware of this over bearing and over zealousness on the part of these government agencies. By this, I ask the presidency to promptly intervene in this matter before it gets late.He further warned the government agencies to thread carefully, stressing: my thoughts are that some political leaders who are afraid of his profile and hell bent on truncating his perceived ambition are behind all these.The good news is that no matter what these agencies of government do, the prerogative and his decision to run for presidency come 2019 is his fundamental right and rightly so if he so desires. Nigeria as it is today has a lot going on and this latest brazen acts by government agencies is the least on the minds of Nigerians, he added. Oil and gas logistics giant, Intels Nigeria Limited, a company co-owned by ex-vice president Atiku Abubakar, says the management of the Nig... Oil and gas logistics giant, Intels Nigeria Limited, a company co-owned by ex-vice president Atiku Abubakar, says the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) deliberately frustrated attempts to address the issues concerning implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) in the execution of its pilotage agency agreement. NPA had based the termination of its contract with Intels on the companys alleged refusal to get on the TSA platform. In a statement on Monday, Intels explained that the pilotage agency agreement signed in 2010 did not envisage the TSA, and as such did not factor it in its implementation. Intels revealed that it borrowed $1.4 billion (N428.4 billion) from banks to execute the agreement with the understanding that the debt would be offset from monies realised from the pilotage services paid directly to the banks. Its spokesman, Bolaji Akinola, said a series of meetings, letters and proposals on how to resolve the TSA imbroglio were rebuffed by NPA boss, Hadiza Bala-Usman. Deliberate stumbling blocks were placed on the path of resolving the issues and this is indicative of a sinister motive, Akinola noted. Akinola said that on May 5, 2017, Intels sent a letter to NPA proposing the opening of a jointly signed account between the company and NPA on which the boat service revenues would have been directed, but the proposal, like many others, was rebuffed. He also faulted claims by NPA that the contract was terminated based on the advice of the AGF. At what point are revenues eligible to be paid into the Consolidated Revenue Fund? NPA acting on behalf of the federal government entered into a profit sharing agreement with Intels. 72% of the revenue goes to NPA while 28% is for Intels. The objective interpretation of the constitution should be that the revenue due to the federation should be the 72 per cent due to NPA, he said. Akinola also said that NPA could not fault Intels in the execution of the contract, which we handled most diligently. Intels faithfully implemented the covenants of the agency agreement and also substantially boosted government revenue. We took the pilotage service from a revenue stream of a few thousand dollars per month to a multimillion dollars per month service, hence attracting the envy of many. The company stated the persecution it is currently facing is rather unfortunate and will certainly not stand the test of time. The Intels spokesman said those who criticise the companys operation are either ignorant or mischievous about the companys monumental achievements and value addition to the Nigerian economy. He stressed that the present management of NPA is pandering to the antics of the companys detractors at the expense of government revenue, huge investments and several jobs, contrary to the position of fairness and objectivity that it should have adopted. It is clear that there is more to all these than the TSA issue because all our attempts to resolve the TSA imbroglio hit a brick wall. There was no sincere or genuine desire to address the issue. What was evident was a clear case of giving a dog a bad name to justify hanging it, the official added. Meanwhile, the FIRS sealed the headquarters of Intels in Onne, Rivers State, yesterday. The police in Cross River State yesterday said six residents of Danare community in Boki Local Government Area were shot by gendarmes fro... The police in Cross River State yesterday said six residents of Danare community in Boki Local Government Area were shot by gendarmes from Bodam community during an encroachment into the Nigerian territory by Cameroonians.Commissioner of Police Hafiz Inuwa confirmed the attack in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar.He said the Cameroonian community, Bodam, on the border with Nigerias Boki Local Government Area had been in crisis with Danare community over the international land dispute between the two countries.Inuwa said after visiting Danare community that no life was lost in the attack and that six residents were shot by the Cameroonians.We found out that six persons were shot and they are currently in the hospital as the pellets were being removed from their bodies.They were shot by the people of Bodam village from Cameroon. We have advised the people to restore normalcy and shun all forms of crisis and allow the government to take charge.They told us that they were preparing to repel the attack because the Cameroonians had encroached almost 43km into their land, he said.The commissioner said Danare residents were appealing to the government to restore electricity, drinking water, communication and the police post in the area.Dr Itam Abang, the member representing Boki I in the House of Assembly, told NAN that over 1,000 cocoa, plantain and banana farms were destroyed by the Cameroonians.Itam said majority of residents were farmers and appealed to the Federal Government to intervene by providing the people with adequate security and social amenities.When we got there, the Danare people had already mobilised for war. Luckily, we arrived on time in company with the commissioner of police and we had to prevail on them not to go into the forest.From where we were standing, we could hear gunshots because the Cameroonians had really encroached into the Danare community.And from what my people told me, the Cameroonians have destroyed over 1,000 of their farmlands and this is a huge loss to the farmers.We advised residents in the community to hold their peace, that the state and Federal Government were going to step in with a view to restoring peace and normalcy in the area, Dr Abang said. Children are starving to death in Central African Republic because violence has forced aid workers to pull out, the UN Humanitarian Coordi... Children are starving to death in Central African Republic because violence has forced aid workers to pull out, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the country said on Tuesday.Four years after a conflict began between Muslim Seleka rebels and Christian anti-balaka militias, Central African Republic had seemed calm in the early part of the year.However, violence has flared since May, turning the southeast into a virtual no-go area.There is no humanitarian assistance there. Its not even half, its nothing because it was just not possible for humanitarians to stay there.We started already seeing children dying from severe malnutrition, coordinator Najat Rochdi said.Lack of funds had already forced aid workers to halve food aid and in some places stop it completely, in spite of widespread malnutrition in children under five-years-old.What I heard but we have not been able to confirm it is that so far we had 10 kids who died from malnutrition.But as long as we dont have humanitarians going there, its very difficult for us to confirm that, Rochdi said.The violence is often ethnically based and tinged with suspicions of witchcraft.The latest UN humanitarian report said four children had been abducted and killed in the town of Bambari, their bodies found with their organs removed.In the town of Kembe, about 40 people were reportedly killed or wounded in a clash between armed groups on Oct. 10, it said.The number of displaced people has jumped by 50 percent to 600,000 this year, in addition to 500,000 who have fled into neighbouring countries.Rochdi said 400,000 children were not going to school.Overcrowded camps averaging 30,000 displaced people are fertile recruiting grounds for armed groups, so the UN is trying to clear out weapons and fighters and get people back home wherever possible.The UN peacekeeping force is only 11,600 strong, in a country the size of France and Belgium combined, and the government is struggling to create an army that can hold territory against marauding gunmen.The U.S. and Uganda withdrew their forces after declaring victory in April against the Lords Resistance Army (LRA), a marauding gang notorious for abducting and recruiting child soldiers.Rochdi said their withdrawal left a vacuum and LRA attacks had continued sporadically. A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has faulted the sealing of Intels,... A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has faulted the sealing of Intels, a company belonging to the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, by the Federal Inland Revenue (FIRS). He said the action was a ploy to weaken him politically ahead of the 2019 presidential election. Frank in a statement, Monday, in Abuja warned federal government agencies, including FIRS not to drag itself into the politics of 2019 elections. According to the statement; This is not the time to play politics with the issues of governance. Could it be another ploy to weaken Alhaji Atiku Abubakar ahead of his perceived ambition for 2019? It is pertinent to note that in the history, since the establishment of Intels, no federal government has ever persecuted the company like this present government. The action of the FIRS, NPA, and FTZ as agencies of government is and can be seen to be attempts to humiliate Atiku. How come FIRS just realized the non-payment of tax by Intels? The export free zone just realized that Intels is operating illegally. If the agencies just realized all these, it means they have shown total failure in discharging their duties. Lets learn to follow due process, he warned. However, asking the presidency to promptly intervene before it gets out of hands, Comrade Frank added: I want to believe that the presidency is not aware of this over bearing and over zealousness on the part of these government agencies. By this, I ask the presidency to promptly intervene in this matter before it gets late. He further warned the government agencies to thread carefully, stressing: my thoughts are that some political leaders who are afraid of his profile and hell bent on truncating his perceived ambition are behind all these. The good news is that no matter what these agencies of government do, the prerogative and his decision to run for presidency come 2019 is his fundamental right and rightly so if he so desires. Nigeria as it is today has a lot going on and this latest brazen acts by government agencies is the least on the minds of Nigerians, he added. The Federal Government may try the embattled leader of the proscribed Indegeniuos People of Biafra, IPOB, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, in absentia, The Federal Government may try the embattled leader of the proscribed Indegeniuos People of Biafra, IPOB, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, in absentia,Kanu was billed to appear before trial Justice Binta Nyako to be re-arraigned on an amended five count charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015, alongside three other pro-Biafra agitators- Chidiebere Onwudiwe, Benjamin Madubugwu, David Nwawuisi and Bright Chimezie. However, Kanus whereabouts has remained unkown, a development that has placed his sureties, including a serving Senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe and a Jewish High Chief Priest, Immanuu El-Shalom, at risk of being sent to prison.FG is prosecuting the defendants through the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. Charges against them border mainly on criminal conspiracy and treasonable felony. A member of the prosecuting team who spoke to newsmen on Monday said FG was determined to proceed with the matter even if the IPOB leader failed to present himself before the court. He said such practice was allowed, once it was proved that the defendant deliberately made himself unavailable for trial.It will not be the first time a defendant is tried in absentia. Take the case of a former Niger Delta militant, Mr. Tompolo for instance. When he refused to make himself available, FG proceeded to try him in absentia, the lawyer who craved anonymity because he was not cleared to speak on matter added. He maintained that under extant laws in the country, a defendant so tried, could still be convicted and made to face whatever penalty that was imposed by the court.Kanu who is the 1st defendant, is facing four out of the five count amended charge. It will be recalled that Justice Nyako had in a ruling on April 25, released Kanu on bail after he had spent a year and seven months in detention, though the court okayed his co-defendants to remain in prison custody.The court which stressed that it released Kanu on health ground, however compelled him to produce three sureties, including a Jewish leader and a highly placed person of Igbo extraction, who all deposited N100million each. Both Abaribe who is representing Abia South Senatorial District, El-Shalom and a Chartered Accountant residing in Abuja, Mr. Tochukwu Uchendu, had on April 28, entered an undertaken to produce Kanu before the court to face his trial.However, barely 17 hours to the scheduled trial, no one has heard from or seen the IPOB leader who has remained incommunicado since the Nigerian Military carried out its code-named Operation Python Dance II, in the South East, particularly in his state, Abia.A source at the Justice Ministry had earlier disclosed to newsmen that FG would on the slated trial date, not only move the court to revoke Kanus bail, but equally apply for a bench warrant to be issued against his three sureties. The position of the law is very clear to the effect that when a defendant jumps bail, his surety is made to pay for the offence upon which the trial was based.It is there in the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. If for any reason Kanu fails to submit himself for trial on October 17, we will have no other option than to apply for immediate arrest of all his three sureties. We will move the trial court to issue a bench warrant against them. We have their full details, and dont forget that they were made to sign an undertaken by the court before the defendant was released on bail, he added.Kanus lead counsel, Mr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor, had in a telephone interview, insisted he does not know the whereabouts of his client. Ejiofor said his only contact with the IPOB leader was on September 14, few minutes before the Nigerian Army invaded his (Kanus) hometown.He said that Kanu called him on phone, complaining that he was under attack from soldiers that were deployed to his compound by FG. Ejiofor who said he would not be surprised if FG decides to move against those that stood surety for his client, maintained that the burden was on the prosecution to produce Kanu in court on the adjourned date.The fact is that they are in a position to produce him at the next adjourned date. It is public knowledge that my client had before his house was invaded, always made himself available for trial. He never evaded trial as he made it known that he was ready. If he wanted to jump bail, he would have done so immediately he was released from prison. But he did not run. The last time I spoke with my client was the day his house was invaded by soldiers. He called me and complained that he was being attacked by soldiers who he said were shooting sporadically. since then, I have not heard from my client again. If he is alive, they should tell the court on that day.They will not only explain to the trial court, but will also produce the soldiers that went to his home to attack him, Ejiofor added. Meantime, investigations revealed that the case may not actually proceed on Tuesday, as the trial Judge was said to be out of jurisdiction on an important government assignment. Justice Nyako is currently heading a team of Judges that were selected by FG to conduct the trial of over 1,600 Boko Haram suspects at Kainji detention facility in Niger state.Kanus lawyer, Mr. Ejiofor has already filed a separate suit, asking the High Court in Abuja to compel the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, to produce his client in court on Tuesday, dead or alive.Ejiofor told the court that he has not seen or heard from his client since the Nigerian Army invaded the Applicants house on a murderous raid, where life and mortar bullets were fired on unarmed and defenseless populace, leaving 28 persons dead and abducting many. Pursuant to section 40 of the Federal High Court Act, F12, LFN 2005 and section 6(6) (1) (4) of the 1999 constitution, as amended, Kanus lawyers applied for an order of Habeas Corpus ad subjiciendum, commanding the Respondent, to produce the Applicant in Court.In a supporting affidavit that was deposed by one Prince Mandela Umegborogu, the deponent said he was told by Kanus younger brother, Emmanuel, that on September 12, Soldiers of Nigerian Army, numbering about 200 ( two hundred) fully armed to the teeth invaded the residential home of the Applicant in Afarauwku- Ibeku, Umuahia, in Abia State. According to the affidavit, On the 12th September, 2017, the Nigeria Military Soldiers acting under express command handed down by the Respondent, violently invaded the Applicants home in Afara-ukwu Ibeku, Umuahia Abia State, wherein scores of his relative were brutally wounded and many killed. On 14th day of September, 2017, the Nigerian Military led by Soldiers of the Nigerian Army invaded the Applicants house on a murderous raid, where life and mortar bullets were fired on unarmed and defenseless populace, leaving 28 persons dead and abducting many.The Applicant who was in the house during this bloody onslaught by the Soldiers, has not been heard from or seen after this bloody attack in his home by the Agents of the Respondent since the 14th day of September 2017. That the invading Soldiers in their desperate bid to ensure that the Applicant is caught in the attack climbed stairs to his bedroom upstairs to shot him; walls of his bedroom were riddled with bullets.The invading Soldiers who had direct contact with the Applicant on this fateful day (14th day of September 2017) should be in a position to produce the Applicant before the court. It is either the Respondents rampaging Soldiers abducted the Applicant during this raid or must have killed him in the process. Kanu had prior to the Army operation, prayed the trial court to vary some of his bail conditions which he said were directly in conflict with his constitutionally guaranteed fundamental human rights and therefore ought to be set-aside.As part of his conditions for bail, Kanu who was arrested upon his return to Nigeria from the United Kingdom on October 14, 2015, was expressly barred by the court from attending any rally or granting any form of interview. I must stress it here that the defendant must not attend any rally. He must not be in a crowd exceeding 10 persons, the Judge warned.The court insisted that the IPOB leader must sign an undertaken to make himself available for trial at all times. He was equally ordered to surrender his Nigerian and British international passports. Aside challenging the variation request, FG, in a fresh application it filed on August 25, applied for Kanus bail to be revoked. It predicated the application on section 169 and 173(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. Describing the IPOB leader as a threat to national security, FG alleged that he engaged in several acts it said were capable of sparking civil unrest and anarchy in the country.It specifically applied for an order directing the arrest and committing of the 1st defendant to custody pending trial. FG had among other things, alleged that Kanu, his co-defendants and other persons still at large, had on diverse dates in 2014 and 2015 in Nigeria and London, United Kingdom, did conspire amongst yourselves to broadcast on Radio Biafra monitored in Enugu and other areas within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, preparations being made by you and others at large, for states in the South-East and South-South zones and other communities in Kogi and Benue States to secede from the Federal Republic of Nigeria with a view to constituting same into a Republic of Biafra and you thereby committed an offence punishable under section 516 of the Criminal Code Act, Cap C38 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2000.It told the court that Kanu had on or about the 28th April, 2015 in London, United Kingdom did in a broadcast on Radio Biafra monitored in Enugu, Enugu state and other parts of Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, referred to Major General Muhammadu Buhari, GCON, President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a paedophile, a terrorist, an idiot and an embodiment of evil, knowing same to be false and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 375 of the Criminal Code Act, Cap C. 38 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. There was panic in some parts of Rivers State as speculations that soldiers were entering schools with the aim of forcing school children to receive vaccination allegedly from the Nigerian Army.Several callers to some Port Harcourt-based radio stations had triggered anxiety among parents, who trooped to various schools within the state capital to take their children away.As of 9.45am, parents were seen at the gates of some of the private and government-owned nursery, primary and secondary schools, asking the school officials to release their children for them.On the street, parents were seen with their children hurriedly stopping taxies and buses to convey them to their various homes.As of the time of filing this report (12.49pm), almost all the schools in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital were without pupils and students due to the panic. President Muhammadu Buhari will on Wednesday leave Abuja for Istanbul, Turkey to participate in the ninth Summit of the Developing 8 (D-8) on Friday.According to the statement issued by his spokesman, Femi Adesina in Abuja on Tuesday, prior to the D-8 Summit, President Buhari, at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, will participate in an official working visit to Ankara, the capital city.It said in Ankara, the President will have a tete-a-tete with his Turkish counterpart while delegations from both countries will hold discussions in various fields including defence cooperation, security, educational and migration issues.Buhari will also visit the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara where he will meet with the Speaker, Ismail Kahraman.While in Istanbul, the Turkish commercial centre, President Buhari will use the occasion of the D-8 Summit to bolster warm and growing ties across a broad range of areas of cooperation with leaders of the D8-member countries, namely Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey.The statement said the Summit with the theme, Expanding Opportunities through Cooperation, will among other things, focus on cooperation in the areas of agriculture, trade, transport, energy and increased private sector participation among member-countries.It added that during the ninth Summit of the D-8, which will also mark the 20th anniversary of the organisation established to improve the developing countries positions in the world economy, the President will highlight the significant show of confidence in Nigerias business environment and economy.According to the statement, Buhari will also affirm Nigerias resolve to work with D-8 member-countries on many key areas, including peace and security, economy and trade.At the end of the Summit, the Heads of State and Government will adopt a Communique, also known as the Istanbul Declaration.The statement revealed that the President will be accompanied on the trip by ministers, top government officials, including the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Hameed Ali. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, has dismissed speculations that vaccines for polio and other communicable diseases caus... The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, has dismissed speculations that vaccines for polio and other communicable diseases cause the death of infants.The paramount traditional ruler said this during a courtesy visit to Gov. Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State on Tuesday in Lafia.He advised politicians to stop politicising issues relating to health care for selfish reasons.It was reported that Abubakar III, who is also the President General of Jamaatul Nasril Islam and the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, is in Lafia for the 3rd Quarter Meeting on Polio Eradication Routine Immunisation.He expressed displeasure at reports that vaccines for immunisation have been contaminated to poison certain groups of people and followers of certain religion in the country.He described the reports as false and warned those spreading the rumours to stop discouraging innocent Nigerians from participating in the immunisation exercise to protect them against polio and other communicable diseases.There are two things we must never politicise and they are health and security issues because they affect everybody irrespective of religious or tribal background.I was so saddened when we heard that the vaccines contain poison to eliminate certain races.We must never play politics with peoples lives. The vaccines are not meant to kill anybody but to protect Nigerians from these communicable diseases.We will never support anything that will hurt anybody. So I urge our politicians and others to stop playing politics with the lives of anybody, the Sultan appealed.He also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders and other well meaning Nigerians to help enlighten others on the vital importance of immunisation to end the endemic status of some communicable diseases in the country.On the mandate of the committee, Abubakar III explained that the committee was his vision set up eight years ago to fight polio and other communicable diseases especially in Northern Nigeria.Health is the most important thing to human beings. No matter how strong, brilliant and smart you are, if you are not healthy, you are useless.That is why we set up this committee eight years ago to fight polio and other communicable diseases, he said.The Sultan commended the Nasarawa State Government for its enviable contributions to the health sector especially primary healthcare.According to him, the contributions of the state government to health care prompted the committee to choose the state for its third quarter meeting.The last meeting we held was around July in Sokoto. It was there we heard of the strides made by the state government in the health sector and decided to hold the next meeting there.We thank the state governor and his able lieutenants for giving us tremendous support, Abubakar III said.Responding, Gov. Al-Makura thanked the Sultan and other members of the committee for choosing the state for the meeting.We are proud and grateful for your advocacy and campaign on health which you have personally embarked on across Nigeria.Your efforts on polio and other communicable diseases are efforts that have saved us from dooms day.We have nothing to give you but appreciation. We cannot thank you enough for your selfless service to the nation.I would like to encourage you to keep up the good work, the governor said.Al-Makura, however, appealed to the committee and state governments in Northern Nigeria to take seriously the threat of Monkey pox so as to prevent it from spreading across the region.We should not take lightly this issue of monkey pox, especially for some of us in the North.I want to assure you we will commence enlightenment and sensitisation of people to take to immunisation.I want to also assure that Nasarawa state will continue to collaborate with this committee in order for it to achieve its objectives, he said.The governor also pledged that the health budget of the state for the remaining lifespan of the current administration would be given adequate attention to tackle health challenges across the state. (NAN) Ex-Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole said yesterday President Muhammadu Buhari only asked for assistance on humanitarian crisis during... Ex-Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole said yesterday President Muhammadu Buhari only asked for assistance on humanitarian crisis during a session with World Bank President Dr. Kim Jong.He said it was regrettable that a patriotic request made by the President and borne out of altruistic motivation was now being politicised.He said the idea of trying to read sectional meaning to Buharis patriotic request was grossly unfortunate.Oshiomhole, who made the clarifications in a statement in Abuja, said Buhari remains a statesman.The statement said: It is a matter of fact that I was present at the meeting of President Muhammadu Buhari with the World Bank President Dr. Kim Jong on July 21, 2015 at the Blair House, Washington DC.It is rather unfortunate that a patriotic request made by Mr. President and borne out of altruistic motivation is now being twisted, manipulated and politicised to suit certain political end.Mr. President made the request against the backdrop of the devastation of the Northeast zone and the need for international organisations to rise in support of the efforts of the Nigeria government in arresting the humanitarian crisis in that part of the country.The inhuman conditions of the Internally Displaced Persons were also discussed and Mr. President urged the World Bank to look into the best possible ways to address the crisis before it got out of hand.In Edo State at that period, the government I headed was also buffeted with the challenge of dealing with internally displaced persons who came to settle in the outskirt of Benin City without the knowledge of the state government.It took my personal intervention and the cooperation of Mr. President before we could offer our logistic assistance to make their location habitable to avert any humanitarian crisis.For those who are familiar with the devastation of the North-East, where over 20,000 persons have reportedly been killed with over two million internally displaced persons, it smacks of political notoriety for any rational mind to question the request of Mr. President.The ex-governor urged Nigerians to stop playing politics with the session between the President and the World Bank chief.The statement added: President Buhari remains a statesman, who is not only patriotic and altruistic in his intentions, but one whose actions speak volume for our unity of purpose.We should see the country as one indivisible entity driven by common objectives and goals. The President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday said he called for an international conference on the Northeast and the Boko Haram so as to raise funds for rehabilitation of the region.Saraki, who stated this at the 137th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in St. Petersburg, said that this was to address the devastation caused by the Boko Haram insurgency in the region.He said that the number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria was one of the highest in the world due to the damage caused by the Boko Haram group.The level of IDPs in Nigeria, though not as much as in Syria, but it is very high; second highest.So, the international community must hold a conference to be able to raise enough money and awareness.That kind of conference will bring in more donors and agencies that will contribute to rebuild the Northeast.We have not made much progress in rebuilding the Northeast because we cannot do it alone.The issue is how to sustain the peace that exists in the region enough to relocate people to their homes. That is where we are and that is the difficult part, he said.On allegations of corruption linked to funds released for rebuilding of the region, Saraki said such should not stop the call for international intervention because of the number of lives affected.He said that the right thing was to investigate the allegations and bring culprits to book while continuing with the rehabilitation process.Corruption is not only in the management of the Northeast, we have corruption in other areas.It is, however, unfortunate that such is happening to people that need assistance; people displaced and who have lost their lives.We thought that will be the last place to hear of corruption. This shows how greedy people are that they cannot consider the humanitarian aspect of the problem.Through the efforts of the Federal Government, the National Assembly and the Armed Forces there is relative peace. Though there are still sporadic attacks but not as much as it was a few years ago, he said.The senate president urged those berating President Muhammadu Buhari for requesting for foreign aid for rehabilitation of the region to appreciate the level of damage done to the region.He said while not undermining conflicts in other parts of the country, seeking for aid for the region was not out of place.Saraki pointed out that for the president to ask for focus on the Northeast; I think it is appropriate, to address the issue of Boko Haram.I am not saying there are no issues in other regions of the country but you will agree with me that it is the greatest danger faced by the country.It is only that now because of the achievement of the Federal Government, we are all getting a bit relaxed and asking questions about focusing on rebuilding the area or not.He called on Nigerians to rise above sentiments, particularly on issues that pose great threat to human lives. The Biafra Zionists Federation, BZF, on Tuesday announced fresh names as addition to its self-styled government. The Biafra Zionists Federation, BZF, on Tuesday announced fresh names as addition to its self-styled government. Among the names are former finance minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who it appointed ambassador to the United States, as well as Kanu Agabi named as attorney general. Nigerian Eye recalls that self-acclaimed President of the Biafra Zionist Federation, Barr. Benjamin Onwuka had few months back named his cabinet. However, ever since the exercise, he has not been seen in public, though he still issues press statements from time to time. This time, he also came hard on Igbo leaders over their recent meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in Aso Villa, Abuja, describing the visit as futile and self-serving. It could be re-called that at the meeting attended by selected South-East leaders and the governors from the zone, President Buhari dismissed insinuations that he was marginalizing Ndigbo. The Zionists in what they called Stern warning to saboteurs of the Biafra project, said it was shameful that while they were dying in the struggle for the restoration of Biafra, the so-called Igbo leaders went to Aso Rock to share war bounties. Onwuka said a time would come for the Igbo leaders to pay for working against the interest of the common man in the street. He equally warned former Abia State Governor, Chief Orji-Uzor Kalu to stop sabotaging the interest of Ndigbo on the altar of his presidential ambition. The Biafra agitator, who also announced a change of his name to Onwuka Nsiegbe, vowed that with the support of the United States, he would before this years Christmas re-declare Biafra at Lokojo in Kogi State. He also reeled out six new appointments, among whom is former finance minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who he appointed as Ambassador to the United States. According to him, We are hopeful that Biafra is going to be approved in December by the US because this problem of Biafra is not about IPOB or Nnamdi Kanu, it is about Americas support. We are now waiting for Trumps endorsement before Christmas; whatever we are doing is based on Americas diplomatic engagement. Therefore, the Republic of Biafra will be announced in Lokoja; Lokoja is an Igbo land; as at 1914 when the amalgamation took place, Lokoja was part of Igbo land; Igbo land extends up to Plateau State; it used to be called Arochukwu kingdom; so, Biafra is going to reclaim her sovereignty from Lokoja. Biafra issue is a diplomatic matter; if America does not support us, it will not work; so, IPOB or Nnamdi Kanu cannot get Biafra; what the IPOB is doing is a waste of time. We are hopeful that our diplomatic approach will make it come true. We want to reinforce our ministerial appointments. They include foreign minister, PAtrick Utomi, finance, Arunma Oteh, Governor of the Central Bank of Biafra, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Information, Amarachi Ubani, currently at Channels Television, Lagos, Trade and Industry, May Okafor, currently at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, transportation, Prof. Jerry Gana, Aviation, Labaran Maku, Secretary to the Government of the Republic, Beny Lar, education, Gabriel Oluwole Osagie, energy, Prof. Barth Nnaji; United Nations, Chief John Nnia Nwodo, the current chairman of Ohanaeze; defence, internal affairs, agriculture, police, air force, prison service, customs, would all be Israelis. We are equally announcing new appointments as follows: Chairman of national committee for Biafras independence, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, the leader and founder of the IPOB; man of the day, would be former governor of Kogi State, Dr. Idris Wada; the attorney general of the federation will be Rt. Hon. Kalu Agabi, and then the Biafras ambassador to the United States is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The reason we appointed her is because she knows Washinton very well; she has been the Vice President of the World Bank and she knows all the politics of America. So, with her appointment, she will help us and make American investors and opportunities more apparent for Biafra; so, it is not mere appointment. The minister of religion or what you call the national chaplain of the Republic of Biafra will be Rev. Jude Okoye. On the visit of South-East leaders to Buhari, he said, They are wasting their time; these are people being bought over by the Nigerian government; they know very well that we are not part of the Hausa-Fulani. The meeting is totally futile and self-serving. We are not bordered about what they are doing but the ordinary man on the street is saying. They are going there singing praises, have they spoken strongly against the killings in Aba and Umuahia? How many of them challenged them on the killings; so, these are saboteurs; people who are being bought over; but they are going to be put to shame; once the US gives us backing, we will know how to treat these liars and saboteurs; these are people whose children are in New York, London, Germany, so, what matters is what the ordinary man is passing through. Let me, however, warn them that they are at risk, they must answer to what they are doing in Abuja; while we are fighting and dying, they are going there singing praises and sharing spoils of war; they must be called to question. We are not part of them; they are on their own. They cannot stop Biafras independence; before Christmas, Biafra will be announced with US support. May we also bring a serious warning to Orji-Uzor Kalu, that his attempt to stop Biafras independence will backfire on him. He is being watched; his support for the Hausa-Fulani who are killing our people will not go well for him; he is campaigning for presidency; so who will vote for him when everybody has been killed here? When he ran for governor and senate, who voted for him? Are they not these same people being killed now and he is supporting the killings. We are warning him very seriously, he will pay a heavy price. These things he is doing now because of vote will backfire on him. He is not evens safe himself. Without Biafra, no Igbo man, no southerner is safe. The way we placed Mbaka, we will place Orji-Uzor Kalu as well, his own will be worst. TEANECK - The young women usually entered the banks they planned to rob wearing head coverings, approached a teller or manager, and asked for information on how to open an account. In one of the robberies, they dressed as nuns, even wearing white wimples. In others, such as a Sept. 27 robbery at Spencer Savings Bank in Garfield, one wore a hijab. One stood guard by a bank manager while the other pulled out a black handgun, authorities said. "Give me all your money," she hissed at a teller. "No funny money. Don't press anything. Give all the money in the drawer." The women stuck to a similar script again on Sunday, when they walked into the NVE Bank in Teaneck and asked about opening an account. This time, the woman who had worn the blue hijab had traded it for an orange one. But a bank manager thwarted the robbery attempt by calling police, according to a criminal complaint, which led to police collaring the pair in a dramatic arrest on Route 80. Authorities say the two women who disguised themselves as nuns and in traditional Muslim headscarves were really Swahilys Pedraza-Rodriguez, 19, of New Haven, Connecticut, and Melissa Aquino Arias, 23, of Passaic, both of whom are charged with bank robbery. In one holdup, the pair pretended to be nuns as they attempted to rob a Citizens Bank on Route 611 in Tannersville, Pennsylvania, on Aug. 28, according to a law enforcement source in New Jersey. In that attempt, each woman wore a black habit and veil with a white wimple covering each of their faces, according to photos released by the FBI. One woman was armed with a pistol and demanded money. But they fled without cash after an alarm went off, authorities said. A few weeks later, the same women showed up at Spencer Savings in Garfield and made off with $2,900, according to the source and a criminal complaint. After the Garfield robbery, however, police created wanted posters generated from video surveillance. So when the women entered the Teaneck bank about 1 p.m. Sunday, the manager immediately knew who had strolled into his branch. "Based on photographs he had seen in the press, (the manager) immediately recognized the women as the robbers from the Spencer Savings Bank robbery," the complaint says. As the manager called police, the women ran from the building. The manager ran after them, obtained a detailed description of their vehicle and gave it to the cops. Nearby, two police officers received an alert about the women and, moments later, saw the two driving by. Leonia Police Officers Eduardo Millan and Ray Forsdahl followed the vehicle for a short distance before stopping it on Route 80 West, according to police Capt. Scott Tamagny. "Upon approaching the vehicle, (Millan and Forsdahl) recognized the two women as the same two women depicted in the poster who had robbed Spencer Savings Bank in Garfield," the complaint states. Millan and Forsdahl drew their weapons and arrested the women at gunpoint. While sources have confirmed Pedraza and Arias are suspects in the Poconos bank robbery, the FBI on Tuesday would not. "We're aware of the NJ arrests (and) charges," Carrie Adamowski, an FBI spokesman in Philadelphia wrote in an email. "However, as our investigation continues, I'm not able to confirm anything with regard to the Tannersville attempted bank robbery at this time." Arias, in particular, is no stranger to the legal system, having been arrested after a harrowing home invasion in Livingston two years ago. In that case, Arias was charged with multiple offenses including kidnapping, robbery, burglary and theft. Police at the time said the victims, an 85-year-old woman and a 75-year-old man, were tied up with towels placed over their faces as their home was ransacked. Arias, along with other suspects, was accused of stealing a safe and the couple's SUV. The disposition of the Livingston charges was not available on Tuesday afternoon. During a federal court appearance in Newark on Monday, Pedraza and Arias were ordered held without bail. They face 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if found guilty of bank robbery. Attorneys for the women did not immediately respond to requests for comment. - - The Associated Press contributed to this report. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. BELLMAWR -- Getting from one place to another is hard enough in New Jersey, one of the most densely populated states in the nation with legendary congested traffic. Remember Bridgegate? Getting from one place to another when the road sign is wrong can add a Cirque du Soleil quality to a car ride, especially for out-of-town visitors. For years, Bellmawr, a Camden County borough near Philadelphia , threw drivers for a loop. A sign directing motorists to Mount Ephraim had the "a" and "i" transposed, as in Mt. Ephriam. Even more confusing, two signs just off of Route 42, the busy North-South Freeway to Atlantic City and other shore points, misidentified County Rt. 753, Creek Road, as being in Gloucester County instead of Camden County. Then, on Thursday, a day after NJ Advance Media inquired about the bad signs, the "Mt. Ephriam" sign -- on Browning Road near the intersection with the Black Horse Pike, Route 168 -- was replaced with one with the correct spelling. And later this week, the other two signs will be replaced as well, said Daniel Triana, a spokesman for NJDOT. Josh Tregear, the borough administrator, said officials first noticed the errors "two or three years ago," and they had been trying to get it fixed. "Obviously, the borough would like to see it corrected as many people mistakenly attribute (the errors) to the Bellmawr Highway Department," Tregear said in an email last week. Drivers, he said, don't know the bad signs were made by the state Department of Transportation. It's not clear how the fixes were made so quickly and Triana said he needed more time to research how the errors occurred and who was responsible. A similar incident was reported last month near Parsippany. The sign, located on Route 202 N./Littleton Road, south of the Route 80 overpass, directing motorists to "Lk Parisppany" via Frontage Road, was installed earlier this year, according to Department of Transportation spokesman Stephen Schapiro. In the case of the Morris County snafu, the typo was brought to the DOT's attention in August and a replacement sign was requested, Schapiro said. Bill Duhart may be reached at bduhart@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @bduhart. Find NJ.com on Facebook. TRENTON -- For decades, New Jersey had a powerful chancellor of higher education in Trenton who had a hand in everything from selecting campus presidents to setting tuition at the state's public college and universities. Then- Gov. Christie Whitman scrapped the chancellor's job and the entire state Department of Higher Education more than 20 years ago to allow individual colleges the freedom to run their own campuses. Is it time for New Jersey to bring back the chancellor post? That is one of the questions raised in a report released Monday by New Jersey Policy Perspective, a liberal-learning Trenton think tank. The report calls for the state's new governor to commission a blue ribbon panel to explore major changes to the state's higher education system. Over the last few decades, tuition and student debt has risen at New Jersey colleges and universities and higher education in no longer a front-burner issue in Trenton, said Gordon MacInnes, president of New Jersey Policy Perspective and author of the report. "We've experienced decades of neglect," MacInnes said. "The consequences on New Jersey families is substantial and negative." Assemblywoman Mila Jasey, chairwoman of the Assembly Higher Education Committee, said she agrees the state needs to talk about reintroducing the chancellor of higher education and a more powerful state department of higher education. "That is certainly something I think we need to explore," said Jasey, D-Essex. Rochelle Hendricks, the current Secretary of Higher Education under Gov. Chris Christie, has a small staff, a small budget and limited power to make changes to the state's higher education system, Jasey said. The major party candidates running for governor -- Democrat Phil Murphy and Republican Kim Guadagno -- have not said they would bring back a powerful department of higher education, if elected. However, Murphy has introduced a plan to invest more money in higher education and make tuition to New Jersey's two-year county colleges free for students. Guadagno's campaign has blasted the plan, saying it would increase taxes for New Jersey taxpayers. Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KellyHeyboer. Find her at KellyHeyboerReporter on Facebook. NEWARK -- Over four years, thousands of U.S. military veterans signed up for what seemed like a great opportunity to get a college education through a small Catholic university in New Jersey. Under the deal marketed by Ed4Mil, a Pennsylvania-based company, the veterans could use their Post-9/11 GI Bill tuition benefits to enroll in online courses offered by Caldwell University. But, it was all a scam, according to court documents released Tuesday. The online classes were not offered by Caldwell University or taught by the university's staff. Instead, they were low-cost correspondence courses that were not eligible for the GI Bill. Two women, including a former associate dean at Caldwell University, admitted their roles Tuesday in the "bait-and-switch" scheme that defrauded the government of $24 million in GI Bill benefits between 2009 and 2013, federal prosecutors announced. Lisa DiBisceglie, the former associate dean of the office of external partnerships at Caldwell University, and Helen Sechrist, a former employee of Ed4Mil, pleaded guilty in federal court in Newark to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. DiBisceglie, 56, of Lavallette, and Sechrist, 61, could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Their sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 24, 2018. "DiBisceglie and Sechrist were part of an elaborate bait-and-switch scheme that stole millions of dollars in Post-9/11 GI Bill tuition assistance," said Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick. "Instead of receiving a quality education under the Caldwell brand, the veterans that were recruited by Ed4Mil were enrolled in unapproved online courses without their knowledge, all while members of the conspiracy profited from their hard-earned benefits." The women's guilty pleas follow last year's indictment of David Alvey, founder and president of Ed4Mil. Alvey, 50, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. His case is still pending. Caldwell University officials said in a statement that they ended their relationship with Ed4Mil in 2013 and only learned of the "bait-and-switch" scheme after DiBisceglie quit her assistant dean position to work for Ed4Mil. "Caldwell understands that, today, one of its former employees pled guilty to a wire fraud conspiracy in connection with unauthorized actions she took while employed by the university and continued after she left the university and joined Ed4Mil. Neither Caldwell University nor its current administration or staff is accused of wrongdoing, and only learned of the conduct after the former employee left the school to work for Ed4Mil. Caldwell University has and will continue to cooperate with the government until this investigation is concluded," the university's statement said. Ed4Mil falsely claimed on government applications that the classes offered to the veterans were approved Caldwell University classes and not correspondence courses taught by an online company, according to court documents. The government was charged between $4,500 and $26,000 per course, instead of the $600 to $1,000 per course the correspondence company charged for the same classes, prosecutors said. The $24 million in tuition benefits collected through the GI Bill was allegedly paid to Caldwell University, which then turned over between 85 percent and 90 percent of the money to Ed4Mil, according to court documents. DiBisceglie and Sechrist are required under their plea agreement to pay back $24 million in restitution, though it is unclear how much of the money the government will be able to recover. The court documents do not say how much the two women personally profited from the scheme. Attorneys for DiBisceglie and Sechrist did not immediately return requests to comment. The Post-9/11 GI Bill was created after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to give military veterans money for tuition, housing and other education costs. The money is paid directly to colleges for eligible courses. "Scams like this steal money from hardworking taxpayers and legitimate students -- and in this case, our veterans -- and that is completely unacceptable," said Debbi Mayer, assistant special agent in charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General's Northeastern Regional Office, which helped investigate the case. Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KellyHeyboer. Find her at KellyHeyboerReporter on Facebook. Artie Lange is alive and full of guilt after cancelling a show in Akron, Ohio on Saturday. Now he wanted to make amends. That's what the New Jersey-based comedian and former "Howard Stern Show" regular said in the opening segment of Monday afternoon's "The Artie and Anthony Show", the show he co-hosts four days a week with Anthony Cumia on Compound Media. Lange, a Union native, confirmed that he was forced to cancel the Akron show after he was told by a doctor that it would be unsafe to fly while his blood sugar levels were spiking. "I have diabetes," Lange said on the show, "and my blood sugar was, let's say, it was Babe Ruth's lifetime slugging percentage." The comedian explained that the blood sugar spike was a result of his birthday celebration last week, during which he had a little too much cake and chardonnay. After explaining why he was forced to miss his flight and cancel the show, Lange promised to make good with any disappointed fans. He joked he'll be calling every person who bought a ticket to the show to personally ask how he can pay them back. "It was a Saturday night and they're going to see this fatass. They're overpaying. And I don't show up," Lange said. "So [the fans] have the email, the promoter has the email, so email the guy your number. And I'm going to tweet this out. And I'll call you and we'll talk and we'll figure it out." Lange added that he'll offer people with tickets to the cancelled Akron show free tickets to his show in Homestead, Pennsylvania on October 21. "I have a gig outside of Pittsburgh, if you want to come to that it's on me," Lange said. "I'll do a free show and I'll pay you back." Lange also addressed early rumors that circulated after the Akron cancellation that he had overdosed or had more serious medical issues. Specifically, he want on a rant for about eight minutes about A.J. Benza, a gossip columnist for RadarOnline. Lange does seem to be maintaining his sense of humor about the episode, to judge by his Twitter feed, where he retweeted a number of posts poking fun at his hospitalization. Reset the Artie Lange Days Not Being Rushed Dying to the Hospital counter back to 1. pic.twitter.com/q3uayIxD9x Jimble Kimble (@damongiles1973) October 17, 2017 Michael Sol Warren may be reached at mwarren@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MSolDub. Find NJ.com on Facebook. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Gregory Peck stars in director Robert Mulligan's Oscar-winning 1962 adaptation of Harper Lee's classic novel "To Kill a Mockingbird." The book, one of the most challenged and banned, was removed last week for the eight-grade curriculum of schools in Biloxi, Miss. (File) 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. Timothy Morrison, 44, of Katy, Texas, whose body was found Friday after an oil platform explosion in Lake Pontchartrain, is shown with his wife and children. (Family photograph provided by Athens Daily Review) Welcome to nonleaguedaily.coms news provision, your go-to source for all non league updates, rumours, interviews, and much more besides. Founded by a team with a genuine passion for the world of non league football, nonleaguedaily.com understands exactly what supporters of the so-called lower leagues are looking for. You want the high-quality reporting, in-depth analysis, and match reporting that matches that is more commonly found in the journalism for the top flights, but with the focus firmly fixed on the national leagues. We understand that your passion, interest, and dedication is constant, and we believe you need a news service that matches that commitment with its own dedication and thoroughness so thats what you can expect from our site. The latest non league news, as and when it happens Conventionally, non league news has always travelled fairly slowly, especially when compared to the instantaneous, constant breaking news cycles found in the upper leagues. Tales are told on terraces, rumours passed between pub patrons and circled between supporters at the latest game, often forced to remain somewhat local initially before word eventually spreads to other locales. For us, this slow spread may be fairly organic in nature, but it simply isnt compatible with the modern football environment. Its also not conducive to the current fast-paced, always-available media landscape, nor the way that people tend to consume news nowadays. Thats why we have put together a non league news source that fans can turn to for the latest updates, as and when they happen, and as and when you want to read them. Non-league news now is the only acceptable speed at Betting.co.uk. We update our non-league football news coverage constantly, bringing you all the latest developments and seeking to spread the word as quickly and accurately as possible. So if youre wondering whats happening both with your local team and with the lower leagues as a whole, you can visit us for non league news now, and be confident the stories you find are completely up to date. News reported by passionate fans Our efforts to bring you the very best non league football news are undeniably a professional concern, and one that we take seriously. We are if youll excuse the uncharacteristic tooting of our own horns good at what we do, and we know that the efforts we make in this regard are one of the reasons our site has enjoyed such success thus far. However, everyone who writes for us also shares our readers enthusiasm for non league football. Were not just churning out content in the hopes of cashing in on a professional dream; were here because we want to be, and will always be dedicated and committed to non league football as an entity and thriving in the experience of being able to talk about our favourite subject whenever we can. We create non-league news now that is written by genuine fans and enthusiasts, for fans. We know what you want to know and what matters most to an ardent non league supporter, and we always ensure that focusing on these elements is our guiding principle as we seek to solidify our status as an online non league paper fans can always rely on. When compiling non league news, we think with the mind of a fan first and foremost. We cover the angles and stories that we find compelling and that we know our fellow non league enthusiasts also care about. News doesnt have to be dry and formulaic, in our opinion. When its written by people who are genuinely as fascinated by the stories they are reporting on as their readership will be, we believe news can be interesting, compelling, and even have a sense of personality and humour. News content written with passion and expertise We believe that thanks to our dedication, insightfulness, and commitment to our subject matter of non league today, we are offering the best of both worlds to those searching for an online non league paper. We give you the professional approach we feel is appropriate for news about one of the most intriguing aspects of UK football; an aspect that we genuinely feel does not receive the interest and plaudits that it should be generating. Nevertheless, we dont let that professionalism take over everything we do: we remain committed fans, nurturing our own personal interest in non league football and ensuring every word we compose is infused with a sense of passion and dedication that enhances the posts we create. Its therefore obvious that our non-league content today isnt ever going to be dry, basic, or put together by a tired staff writer who has never heard of any team below the Championship before they rush off to the pub for the evening. Our writers are genuine experts: were covering non league football because we want to, because we believe in it, and because its where our strengths lie. The result is informed content that capitalises on our deep knowledge of the history, as well as the present-day realities, of non league football in the UK. Beyond news: the nonleaguedaily.com interview series One of our goals with nonleaguedaily.com is to not just dryly report the news from an outsiders perspective, effectively regurgitating press releases that are devoid of genuinely illuminating information. We also go right to the source of the stories: the managers and club insiders who have direct experience, and often influence, on the sport and how it is managed. We regularly conduct interviews as part of our news provision, asking the questions that are on everyones lips and providing the best possible view into the non league world. We have reporters pitchside at matches, microphone to hand and plentiful questions ready to be asked. The end result for you, the reader, is the kind of information and close-up looks into the non league world that just cant be found anywhere else. As our commitment to providing interesting interviews amply demonstrates, we want to be involved in breaking the stories that everyone then talks about, rather than following along and focusing solely on what everyone already knows. If youre looking for leading content that you cant find anywhere else, and that goes right to the centre of the non league world, then you can turn to nonleaguedaily.com for all the benefits of a conventional non league paper, but in electronic, easily-accessed form. A host of other content to enjoy alongside the non league today Our focus on providing non league news will always be maintained: we consider this aspect the most important of what we do, and it will always be the recipient of our time, dedication, and interest. Well be here, a consistent and trustworthy news portal, for as long as non league football news exists. With that said, when you have read up on the latest goings-on, were here with further content for you to enjoy. Naturally, given our partnership with leading brand Betting.co.uk, we provide guidelines for those interested in the world of sports betting. Well help you find the best UK bookmaker with our plentiful coverage of existing brands; ideal if youre looking to put your newfound knowledge, courtesy of us, about non league to use and place a few bets. Furthermore, we also provide highlights of all the latest UK betting offers, so you can ensure youre achieving the best value with all the latest betting deals whenever youre betting on the latest non league matches. Youll find all of this coverage is as consistent and reliable as our non league news provision, Non league features and deep dives Returning to the world of non league football, we also provide a range of feature content that goes deeper and further into the non league world than ever before. Less instantaneously topical but still hugely relevant to the modern game, our features are the dream deep dives that we feel non league fans deserve. Were always striving to do better, offer more, and ensure that non league fans can enjoy the same wealth of content as followers of the top tiers, so you can expect top-flight content with the same commitment and dedication as found throughout the upper echelons of the sport. So whether youre looking to find the most recent non league football news, seeking a new bookmaker for your non league bets, or hoping to delve deep into a niche non league-related topic, nonleaguedaily.com is always going to be worth a visit. Return to nonleaguedaily.com for all your non league news needs Weve told you what you can expect from nonleaguedaily.coms news; now we need to put our confidence where our promises are, make sure we deliver on those promises, and establish trust as an online non league paper you can trust. We look forward to welcoming you back to our news section and showcasing the best we have to offer, from exciting new non league interviews to cutting-edge news to transfer speculation. If you want to truly have your finger on the non league pulse, then nonleaguedaily.com is always going to be here for you. Council Bluffs Noon Rotary Club will host its semi-annual soup luncheon Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Masonic Temple located at 130 S. Sixth St. For $5, those taking advantage of the luncheon get their choice of several soups, a salad, dessert and coffee, tea or water to drink. Money raised at the luncheon will be donated to the Southwest Iowa Human Trafficking Coalition. The Council Bluffs-Omaha metro area is known as a hot spot for human trafficking. Corporate sponsors for the event include HGM, Hy-Vee and Main Event Catering. OMAHA Employees at the VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System kept an unauthorized, off-the-books waiting list for some Omaha mental health appointments, according to documents obtained by The World-Herald. The secret list dodged requirements the Department of Veterans Affairs issued in July 2016 setting strict rules for establishing and maintaining waiting lists, according to a memo from the systems compliance officer to Director Don Burman dated Aug. 11. The compliance officers audit included two whistleblower complaints made about lists for appointments at the VAs mental health psychotherapy clinic in Omaha. The VA declined to answer questions about the audit but issued a statement acknowledging the investigation and stating that no veterans were harmed. Although no adverse patient outcomes occurred, some veterans waited longer for psychotherapy treatment, the statement said. Local VA officials would not say how many local veterans were impacted, or why or by whom the lists were kept. Nor would they say how many employees were involved or what disciplinary action was taken against them. Employees involved with this situation were held accountable; however, none was terminated from employment, the statement said. It said the situations brought to its attention had been fixed. The unauthorized waiting list echoed a nationwide scandal that erupted in 2014 at the VA Medical Center in Phoenix, which showed that veterans there were dying while waiting months for medical care on lists that were kept secret. In that case, an official list was shared with officials in Washington showing that the VA was providing timely appointments. But the real list, where wait times could exceed a year, was kept secret. As a result, Congress that year created a program called Veterans Choice, through which a veteran who doesnt get an appointment within 30 days or who lives more than 40 miles from a VA facility is entitled to visit a therapist outside the VA, at the VAs expense. The VA hasnt disclosed how many of its health care systems used unofficial waiting lists, but USA Today in 2016 tallied the VAs own investigative reports and found that schedule manipulation had been discovered at 40 medical facilities in 19 states and Puerto Rico. Until recently, that tally had not included Nebraska. The report obtained by The World-Herald is an audit conducted this year of the cases of 301 unnamed veterans from Nebraska and western Iowa who were added to the VAs official electronic waiting list between August 2016 and August 2017. The audit showed that 160 of the cases were handled within 30 days, and 92 were handled within 10 days. It also showed that 68 veterans were added to the electronic waiting list twice for the same psychotherapy consultation, and five were entered three times. The memo didnt explain the significance of those findings. The audit memo also includes several observations by the compliance officer, including that staffers appear to have delayed officially recording their first contacts with veterans. The memo said that may indicate another document source was being used for tracking. The report also includes, but does not directly address, two whistleblower complaints. In the first, dated April 29, 2015, an unnamed person called in to say that a VA mental health provider whose name is redacted kept a separate, apparently unofficial, waiting list. The caller alleged that the provider placed veterans referred by other departments ahead of those who called the mental health department directly, and told employees they were to disregard the patients already waiting for appointments and get the consults seen so they could meet metrics. The caller also said the provider earned $59,400 in bonuses between 2012 and 2015, and that the bonuses were given because the unauthorized waiting list helped the provider meet performance measures. Its unknown whether any attempt was made to recover those bonuses. In the second complaint, a VA employee produced a copy of paper waiting lists dating back to Jan. 1, 2014, containing the names of about 400 veterans who had requested psychotherapy appointments. The employee said the unofficial logs are used in place of the electronic waiting list. The employee said the VA established therapy groups in order to meet the VAs standard of scheduling mental health appointments within 14 days. The employee said the veteran is asked to attend the group session to satisfy the requirement for a consultation. Then, as appointment times open, the patient is contacted and an appointment established or a message left. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., whose district includes the health care systems Omaha headquarters, said he had not been informed of the audit until being contacted by The World-Herald. He then contacted Burman, who has been the Nebraska-Western Iowa VA director since February 2015. Bacon said afterward that Burman would not disclose details of the waiting list or the disciplinary action against those who kept it, but Bacon said he was satisfied with the VAs response. A fake list that masks true waiting times at the VA is appalling, but I am glad that outrage is shared by Director Burman, Bacon said in a statement. I am supportive of the measures taken by Director Burman, who swiftly acted when concerns were brought to his attention. Parasites that generally infect the human brain, will be the focus of discussion at the Oct. 24 Science Cafe. Paul Davis, Ph.D., an associate professor of biology at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, will discuss parasites that infect cats, rats and humans at the next Omaha Science Cafe at 7 p.m. at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. in Omaha. For more than 100 years, health sciences have known about the existence of a parasite that inhabits human brains, but considered it of little importance. Recent data, however, suggests that this infection, known as toxoplasma gondii, is anything but harmless as it can contribute to flu-like symptoms that last a month or more, eye damage or serious eye or brain damage in infants infected in the womb. Davis work focuses on human parasitic infections and novel approaches to overcome and prevent such infections. In addition to his research at UNO, he oversees the health careers and biodefense training programs and teaches molecular biology and immunology. Davis earned an undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and doctoral degree at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Originally from Kansas, he has lived in Omaha for seven years. Science Cafes involve a face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics. They are open to everyone 21 and older. Each meeting is organized around an interesting topic of conversation. A scientist gives a brief presentation followed by a question and answer period. Pizza will be provided for the first 50 people. For more information about Science Cafes, go to www.unmc.edu/sciencecafe. The following editorial ran Sept. 27 in The Quad-City Times: Theres no doubt that Iowas U.S. senators are regretting their votes in February to confirm Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt. Thing is, their massive error was obvious from the outset to anyone who wasnt solely interested in being a good partisan soldier. President Donald Trumps EPA could cost Iowa billions in business output and countless jobs if it follows through with its proposal to roll back mandates on ethanol-blended gasoline within the Clean Air Act. On this front, the Renewable Fuel Standard, drafted years ago by the often-derided EPA, has been a boon for Iowa above any other state. And, now, Pruitt and his friends in the oil industry want to hobble the program. Grassley had a veritable meltdown in a news release, on the Senate floor and on Twitter following the EPA announcement earlier this week. The righteous indignation is a little late, Senator. In December, Sens. Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst pledged that Pruitt would defend the RFS. In January, Pruitt again promised that hed protect the program if confirmed. It was bull from the outset. In December, this editorial board urged Grassley and Ernst to oppose Pruitt and Rick Perry, then Trumps nominee to lead the Energy Department. Both men had spent their entire careers in service to oil companies. Trumps lip service to middle America was laughable and unrealistic to any serious observer. It was obvious from the outset that Trump was selecting cabinet members based on their fervor for tearing down that which they were named to lead. Grassley and Ernst were either naive or willfully oblivious. Partisan allegiance blinded them. They, like the rest of the Senates GOP majority, proved little more than a rubber stamp. And, in a year, Iowa could pay the price for their willingness to sell out the state. The average price of corn more than doubled since the creation of the RFS in 2005, topping off at an $4.11 a bushel in 2014, reported The New York Times. Iowa, more than any other state, has benefited from the RFS, according to multiple studies. As such, its become a flashpoint in political circles. Urban centers see it as a backdoor tax on food and an additional subsidy for a farm industry that already receives substantial assistance from the federal government. Officials in other rural states wonder why their crop-of-choice isnt getting a boost from taxpayers. Politicians from oil producing states hate the competition. And libertarians and free-market conservatives are philosophically opposed to the program. Its within this political reality that Grassley and Ernst backed Pruitt. As Oklahomas attorney general, he made a career waging war on any campaign that weakened oil and gas production. He filed lawsuit after lawsuit attacking federal regulation of energy. Now, Trump is batting 0 for eternity on the legislative front. The administrations only so-called victories are in rollbacks of executive branch regulation, Rust Belt be damned. Supporting Pruitt in February wasnt just a gamble. It wasnt simply being a good soldier. It was a predictable vote against Iowas interests. Grassley and Ernst made promises about the RFS political safety that they couldnt keep. Their assurances were grounded only in words from an administration thats been incapable of honesty and loyalty from the outset. They got burned and slashing the RFS is now on the table. Grassley and Ernst might be shocked. But its no surprise to anyone who chose healthy skepticism over political patronage. Bloggerii militari rusi, extrem de suparati ca armata lor nu a tras asupra lui Zelenski in timpul vizitei din Hersonul rusesc: Nu vrem sa luptam cum trebuie! The North Platte City Council tonight will discuss applying for federal funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund program to establish a downtown park. The council will meet at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The proposed location of the park is north of and adjacent to Whitetail Screen Print at 507 N. Jeffers St. The city has budgeted or currently has available its 50 percent match of total project funds, according to the councils agenda book . The council will allocate funds upon project approval by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Special designated permit applications will be discussed as submitted by Prairie Arts Center for the Festival of Trees Nov. 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Nov. 19 from noon to 4 p.m. The Prairie Arts Center has also applied for a special designated license for the Coldwell Banker dinner theater Dec. 9 from 6 to 11 p.m. Garys Super Foods has applied for a special designated license for a wine-tasting event Dec. 16 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the stores 1620 E. Fourth St. location, with an alternate date of Dec. 23 from 3 to 7 p.m. The council also will discuss an application by VFW Noel Donegan Post 1504 for a special designated license on Nov. 11 from noon to 10 p.m. for a Veterans Day celebration. In other business, the council will: Receive the certificate of completion from the citys Engineering Department for Street Improvement District No. 301 (15th Street from Sheridan to Custer and Miles avenues from 14th to 15th streets), Street Improvement District No. 302 (Miles Avenue from 13th to 14th streets and 13th Street from Sheridan to Carr), Street Improvement District No. 303 (13th Street from Madison to Sheridan and Sherman Avenue from Rodeo Road to 13th Street), and Street Improvement District No. 304 (18th Street from Jackson to Sheridan) and accept said improvements. Accept the certificate of completion and assessment schedule for Water Extension District No. 261 (North Mills Avenue and Front Street; thence west along Front Street to North Buffalo Bill Avenue; thence south along North Buffalo Bill Avenue to West Sixth Street approximately 750 feet) and set Board of Equalization for Nov. 7. Accept bids and award Contract No. 185 for Well 2017-1 for the Water Department to Sargent Drilling Co. of Broken Bow for $92,855.00 and authorize the mayor to sign the contract. Take action on Ordinance No. 3974, amending Ordinance No. 3971, approving North Plattes electric rates effective Oct. 1, 2017. Authorize payment of $65,945.93 to Steeles Roofing and Construction. The weight of carrying the name of a famous person can become heavy. Amelia Earhart Amelia Rose Earhart, that is knows the expectations that came with her name were enormous, but through the turbulence of her life, she has learned to establish her own legacy. The turbulence showed up and presented all these problems and I almost threw in the towel, Earhart said Wednesday in North Platte. The fact that I kept going and got some really good advice along the way, and had a really strong support team, I think is why Im so happy today and is why I am who I am, someone who is not afraid of turbulence anymore. She remembers how much pressure others put on her to become a pilot just because of her name. I just had people constantly walking right up to me and say, you really need to learn how to fly, you have to be a pilot, Earhart said. If you dont become a pilot, how could you consider yourself a success, how could you do anything else? She said she felt she was going to be a failure if she didnt become a pilot. I think it started at first as a little bit of force from everyone else, but in the end I did learn to love it, Earhart said. It just launched me on a really neat trajectory. Her goal became re-creating and finishing her namesakes famous flight around the world. The year before she was scheduled to accomplish her dream, she found out that she was in fact not a blood relative of her namesake. Despite that news, Earhart did not let the turbulence keep her from continuing with the flight. I mean that, of course, in the metaphorical sense that the bumps along the way just mean that youre taking the plane out of the hangar, so to speak, Earhart said. And Im so glad that I didnt cancel the whole thing just because I didnt have the bloodline relationship to Amelia Earhart like I thought I did. Earhart worked through the disappointing news and decided to go ahead with the flight. While retracing the flight of my namesake, I knew that it was up to me to build my own runway, to create my own path that I wanted to follow, Earhart writes on her foundation website. You have to navigate your course toward greatness. While on that journey, Earhart said, she has learned to love who she is today. Currently she is a reporter for NBC affiliate KUSA-TV in Denver, where she resides. In 2013, Earhart started the Fly With Amelia Foundation, which grants flight scholarships to girls ages 16-18. On Wednesday, she spoke to a full house at the Town Hall Lecture Series at the North Platte Community Playhouse. She shared the statistics of her flight around the world, which began June 26, 2014, departing Oakland, California, at 8:19 a.m. Pacific Standard Time in a single-engine Pilatus PC-12 NG. She and her co-pilot, Shane Jordan, made 17 stops during the 24,300 nautical-mile trip that took over 108 flying hours. They landed back in Oakland without incident on July 11, 2014. Earhart said the most important thing she has learned as she has spoken across the country is how to be vulnerable. I think when youre vulnerable about the difficulties of doing something big and putting yourself out there on the line, people naturally want to connect with you, Earhart said. At the root of my talks, at first it was all about getting the facts right and making this perfect speech, and now, Im vulnerable on stage and I put my heart out there. She said that has garnered the best response overall. People run up and hug me afterward, share their life story and they want to connect, and thats what I really enjoy, Earhart said. Earhart has been named one of the Top 10 Young Americans by the U.S. Jaycees. The Town Hall Lecture Series is in its 35th year and hosts four lectures a year. The next scheduled speaker is Stephen Murphy, a special agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Murphy and his partner, Javier Pena, targeted the worlds first narco-terrorist, Pablo Escobar, and the Medellin Cartel. For more information, see nptownhall.com, where the schedule of upcoming speakers is also posted. Every American deserves the utmost respect when they interact with their government, but sometimes they can encounter complicated hurdles and federal red tape. When this happens, I encourage you to contact my office. My staff members across Nebraska can assist those trying to navigate the federal bureaucracy. In Scottsbluff, Kearney, Norfolk, Lincoln and Omaha, my staff has years of experience and a strong track record of aiding constituents as they confront roadblocks. My offices often help Nebraskans with a broad array of problems, from struggling to acquire VA medical records or proper designation for their military pensions to trouble with Social Security and tax refunds owed by the IRS. Outreach and casework staff can assist in other types of cases you might not expect. For example, Amanda Knobbe, a zookeeper at Omahas Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, recently needed to travel to South America, but couldnt obtain the proper travel visa. Last year, Amanda was chosen to travel to Brazil to partake in the Giant Armadillo Project, an organization looking to establish an ecological study of giant armadillos in the Brazilian Pantanal wetland. One of three people selected worldwide, joining the project was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Amanda, but the problem with her visa made the trip seem unlikely. Disappointed, she decided to contact my office to see if I could help. We got started immediately. My staff went to work, discussing the issue with the State Department, and soon after, Amanda received her travel visa. While in Brazil, she helped to expand research about giant anteaters and giant armadillos. This knowledge will help us protect endangered species and preserve natural wildlife. When Amanda returned, she sent us a thank you note that included some great pictures from her trip, including an armadillo she and her team saved. It was great to see Nebraskans changing the world by conserving nature. While Amandas case is unique, the most common circumstances involve Nebraskans fighting for what they deserve. In a recent case resolved by staff in Scottsbluff, the Natural Resources Conservation Service charged a Wilber resident with an alleged erroneous debt collection for overpayment of program funds. He was facing a bill of over $7,000. My office helped him prove that the NRCS was in the wrong, saving him from a debt he never accrued. My offices also receive requests from those facing dire circumstances, especially when it involves receiving payment earned by those who served our country. Recently, my Omaha office assisted a mother and daughter facing a dispute in the mothers nonservice-connected pension from the VA. A member of the WWII WAVE (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), a branch of the Naval Reserves, she was facing the prospect of being forced out of her assisted living residence if she did not receive the proper compensation for her service to our country. Our office spoke with the VAs Pension Management Center and helped the process move along. When everything was settled, the former WAVE member was awarded a monthly pension of $1,794. This allowed her to stay in her current assisted living residence. These are all examples of how my offices can serve you during interactions with federal agencies and programs. Making a real-world impact in the lives of Nebraskans in need of help continues to be the most rewarding aspect of my job. Im always ready to remind the federal bureaucracy that they serve the people, not the other way around, and my staff knows how to get the job done. If you need help with a federal program or agency, please reach out to any of my state offices or contact me through my website: www.fischer.senate.gov. Normally, the bigger the company is, the less likely it is that any single decision or event will impact it significantly. But that isn't the case with oil giant ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM), which has gone all in on an unexpected oil play. Luckily for the company -- and its partner, the smaller oil industry player Hess (NYSE: HES) -- its gamble seems to be paying off. Here's what ExxonMobil did and why it may cause both companies to outperform. Completely ignored In the oil business, what looks like a promising field can sometimes be a dud. BP found this out firsthand when it discovered gas in the Katambi Block off the coast of Angola in 2014. What looked like an area ripe with hydrocarbon potential turned out to be a big letdown, as the Katambi gas block was deemed to be noncommercially viable. That resulted in a $750 million writedown for BP when it finally gave up on the play. Conversely, a region that the entire industry dismisses can sometimes pay off handsomely for companies that make a minimal investment. Take Apache Corporation's new Alpine High play in West Texas: Due to industry misconceptions about the region's hydrocarbon potential, the company was able to snap up land for the incredibly cheap price of $1,300 per acre. Apache now estimates the land contains more than 3 billion barrels of oil and 1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. Success seemed unlikely for ExxonMobil when it first explored for oil and gas off the shores of Guyana. There had never been a successful oil find in Guyana, and two wells drilled in 2012 were disappointments. But in 2015, Exxon's Liza-1 well discovered 90 meters of oil-bearing sandstone, and the goodies just kept on coming. Cashing in By the end of September, Exxon had made three more oil discoveries, in addition to Liza-1. These discoveries -- named Payara, Snoek, and Liza Deep -- made the company very optimistic about prospects for the rest of the play. On Oct. 5, ExxonMobil announced a fifth discovery at its Turbot-1 well. The well encountered a reservoir of 75 feet of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone, similar to previous finds in the area. Exxon now expects to drill another well at the Turbot site in 2018. Meanwhile, following completion of the Turbot-1 well, the Stena Carron drillship will move north to the "Ranger" prospect to see if it has continued success. Exxon expects the first oil to begin flowing from Liza by 2020 after it has time to develop the block. That may seem like an eternity, but it's actually pretty speedy by deepwater standards. Jeff Woodbury, ExxonMobil's vice president of investor relations and secretary, referred to it as "industry-leading" in the company's Q2 earnings call. And there may be more where all this came from. On the block, in the neighborhood These latest discoveries occurred in the 6.6 million acre (about 10,350 square miles) Stabroek Block. Exxon's subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is the operator and holds 45% interest in the block. Hess' subsidiary Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30% interest, with the remaining 25% interest held by Chinese company CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited. "The results from this latest well further illustrate the tremendous potential we see from our exploration activities offshore Guyana," said Steve Greenlee, president of ExxonMobil Exploration Company. "ExxonMobil, along with its partners, will continue to further evaluate opportunities on the Stabroek Block." And the company is doing more than just evaluating the Stabroek Block: It's purchased stakes in neighboring blocks as well. These include the Kaieteur and Canje blocks in Guyana and the less cleverly named Block 59 in next-door Suriname: The company has begun seismic testing in the Kaieteur Block but may not get around to the other two blocks for years. That's fine: Clearly, Exxon has plenty in the Stabroek Block to keep it occupied. And if all of the other discoveries do as well as the ones the company has already found, Stabroek could be the proverbial cash cow for Exxon and Hess for years to come. A win for investors That the good news keeps on flowing (pardon the pun) from Exxon and Hess' Guyana operations should make investors very happy. The companies took a risk and it seems to have paid off in spades. The only downside is that it will take three years -- or more -- for the oil to start flowing in earnest, so there likely won't be an immediate impact to either company's bottom line. For long-term investors, though, this strengthens the buy thesis for both of these companies, particularly for the smaller Hess, whose solid fundamentals and beaten-down stock price make it ripe to outperform if oil prices stabilize or rise. Increased production from Guyana would be the icing on the cake. 10 stocks we like better than ExxonMobil When investing geniuses David and Tom Gardner have a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the newsletter they have run for over a decade, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market.* David and Tom just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy right now... and ExxonMobil wasn't one of them! That's right -- they think these 10 stocks are even better buys. Click here to learn about these picks! *Stock Advisor returns as of October 9, 2017 John Bromels owns shares of BP. The Motley Fool owns shares of ExxonMobil. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. HAMMOND The city's Police Department is among 150 Indiana agencies receiving new portable breath test devices. More than 1,700 breathalyzers were purchased and distributed to local law enforcement agencies statewide, thanks to a $750,000 grant under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. According to a news release, officers in Hammond and elsewhere are receiving the new Alco-Sensor FSTs, mouthpieces and gas canisters used to calibrate readings. The new devices include passive sniffers that can sense alcohol in the air around a person or an open container. Over the coming year, an additional $310,000 is budgeted to purchase 725 breathalyzers for Indiana State Police, the release stated. The NHTSA funds were administered by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. It was the largest single purchase for the winning bidder, Intoximeters Inc. NHTSA is proud to be part of this very large purchase of portable breath tests, which will help fight the scourge of impaired driving, John Balser, NHTSA regional deputy administrator, said. Thank you to the ICJI, Lake County Traffic Safety Partnership and forward-thinking law-enforcement agencies across Indiana for your participation in this effort. HAMMOND A federal magistrate judge on Tuesday ordered a 45-year-old Munster man to remain in jail on allegations he attempted to mail a pipe bomb to a Hammond attorney. After hearing arguments about bail from federal prosecutors and defense attorney Kevin Milner, U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge John Martin said there were an "innumerable amount of problems" with releasing Eric Krieg on bond pending trial. The judge said the married father of four children and former BP engineer posed a risk to the community and risk of flight, based on the allegations he attempted to mail a bomb to the attorney and then sent a threatening letter to another city worker. "It's very bold to injure someone with a device, and then to continue with other crimes," the judge said. Michael Abendhoff, a spokesman for BP, said Tuesday Krieg was terminated Friday from his employment with the company. Krieg is charged with being in possession of an explosive device and transporting explosive materials on allegations he attempted to mail a pipe bomb to an attorney who years earlier represented the brother of Hammond city Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. in a defamation lawsuit against Krieg. The bomb exploded Sept. 6 at the U.S. Post Office in East Chicago, causing minor injuries to a postal worker and sparking a federal investigation that resulted in Krieg's arrest Thursday, according to court records. Krieg allegedly admitted to federal authorities he sent the pipe bomb, as well as a threatening letter and bullet received Sept. 29 by a city worker, records state. The letter contained a message stating: The next one will be in the back of your head, according to the records. The worker was previously involved in a dispute with Krieg in 2013 on an internet forum, records state. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Kolar told the judge at Tuesday's court hearing the intended target of the pipe bomb was continuously looking over his shoulder. He said the fact that the bomb injured a postal worker should have stopped him cold, but Krieg continued to commit criminal acts by mailing the threatening letter. When somebody is involved in constructing a destructive device, they are a danger to the community, Kolar said. Milner said the government was not claiming Krieg was unhinged, and pointed to his client's long-standing ties to the community, which included a marriage of more than 20 years and four children, as an argument against Krieg's continued incarceration. Who is Eric Krieg? Krieg, a former licensed professional engineer at BP's Whiting refinery, also twice ran for elected office, first in the 2012 race for Lake County Surveyor and also in the 2010 Republican primary for the 4th District Lake County Council. He lost both elections. Milner said even if the allegations against his client were true, "this appears to be a spat, argument or difference between Mr. Krieg and two individuals." Milner suggested Krieg could be placed on home detention with electronic monitoring and regular, unannounced visits by law enforcement. Kolar said the defendant admitted in his statements to authorities he built the destructive device in his home. The judge questioned whether law enforcement could be safe searching the home, given that evidence, before ordering Krieg to remain jailed without bond. Kolar told the judge after the decision the government had received information there were reports of an unusual vehicle driving near one of the victim's homes since Krieg's arrest. The federal prosecutor said, in a statement that appeared to serve as a warning for those attending the hearing, that such actions could be considered harassment. Martin thanked Kolar for informing the court, but said he could not do more without further information. Milner said after the hearing he believed the prosecutor's suggestion that Krieg's family or associates were involved in intimidation was inappropriate. He said Krieg vigorously denied the allegations against him and looked forward to his day at trial. Krieg is next scheduled to appear at an arraignment and status hearing Nov. 20. LANSING Police have released a composite sketch of a man accused of robbing elderly residents and sexually assaulting one of them in two separate incidents. Residents are asked to report anything suspicious and remain vigilant in their neighborhoods, according to a news release from the Lansing Police Department. At 10 a.m. Sunday, an elderly homeowner of the 17100 block of Lorenz Avenue told police he had been robbed when he arrived home and exited his garage. At 10:30 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a home in the 17100 block of Greenbay Avenue for a home invasion, the release states. Greenbay Avenue is one block east of Lorenz Avenue. In the first case, the suspect approached the elderly man, demanding his phone and money, and then walked him inside his home for more money, according to police. The suspect then fled. Responding officers were unable to locate him, police said. In Thursday's incident, an elderly woman told police she was approached inside her garage by a man with a description similar to the first suspect. She said when she pulled into her attached garage from an alleyway, the man demanded money and took her into her home. The woman told police she was sexually assaulted by the man, who took several jewelry items before fleeing. The suspect is described as a black male, about 30 years old, with short hair, about 5 feet, 9 inches tall with a medium build and wearing dark clothing. Anyone who sees something suspicious in the area matching the description of the suspect or have video surveillance of the area in question is urged to call the police department's Criminal Investigations Division at 708-895-7150. *An earlier version of this story incorrectly said the suspect was armed with a weapon. The Times regrets this error. CROWN POINT A murder trial will begin next week for a 38-year-old man charged in his parents' killing four years ago at their West Creek Township home. Thomas J. Snow appeared at a pretrial conference Tuesday in Lake Criminal Court with his defense attorneys, John Maksimovich and Arlington J. Foley. The state was represented by Lake County Deputy Prosecutor Mark Watson. The attorneys said they were prepared to go to trial next week, with jury selection beginning Monday. Watson said he expected it would be a two-week trial. Snow is accused of bludgeoning and strangling to death his parents, Clifford and Joyce Snow, in 2013 at the couple's home in the 14500 block of West 197th Avenue. The 68-year-old retired shop teacher and his 66-year-old wife were found dead at the home Oct. 18, 2013, though rumors of Clifford Snow's death circulated on social media before their bodies were discovered, according to previous testimony from Snow's sister, Julie Niemeyer. Minnesota police arrested Snow the next day in possession of a family car and credit card. Police said they found gasoline and motel receipts in the car indicating Snow had traveled to Tennessee and Mississippi before returning, four nights before the bodies had been found, to a motel east of Lowell, less than 13 miles from the Snow house. He was charged in April 2014 with two counts of murder in his parent's slaying. He, however, asserted the state govt should also respect its limits that it's not their job to run universities. Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy INDIANAPOLIS Indiana has retained its title as the best business tax climate in the Midwest, despite lawmakers this year hiking fuel taxes by 10 cents per gallon to pay for infrastructure improvements across the state. The annual rankings released Tuesday by the nonpartisan Tax Foundation place Indiana ninth in the nation for having a tax system that enhances its business environment. That was slightly better than Michigan (12th) and Missouri (16th). But Indiana significantly outpaced Illinois (29th), Kentucky (33rd), Wisconsin (38th), Iowa (40th), Ohio (45th) and Minnesota (46th). "It's a very solid performance," said state Sen. Brandt Hershman, R-Buck Creek, chairman of the Indiana Senate Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy. The Tax Foundation rankings draw on 114 tax variables sorted into five components income tax, sales tax, corporate tax, property tax and unemployment insurance tax which then are weighted to reach a component and final score and rank for each of the 50 states and Washington, D.C. Ironically, Indiana's sales tax rank, which includes fuel and other excise taxes, improved two spots to ninth in the country, notwithstanding the gas tax hike approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly and Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb. "I'm not surprised at all," Hershman said. "The Tax Foundation believes in user fees and they view gas tax as a user fee, so they believe that is part of a sound tax structure design." The Tax Foundation also credited Indiana for not allowing local sales taxes to be stacked on top of the 7 percent state rate, for having a broad sales tax base with few exemptions and for not taxing business inputs so only the ultimate purchaser of a product pays sales tax. Indiana ranked fourth in the country for property taxes, thanks in large part to its constitutionally mandated property tax caps of 1 percent on homesteads, 2 percent on rental property and farmland and 3 percent on business and industrial property. In contrast, Illinois was nearly worst in the country for property taxes at 45th. The Hoosier State also ranked 10th for individual income tax and unemployment insurance tax, and 23rd for corporate income tax. Hershman expects Indiana's corporate income tax rank will improve in the years ahead as previously enacted tax cuts take the rate from the current 6 percent to 4.9 percent by 2021. The rate was 8.5 percent five years ago. "It's a very aggressive selling point for us, and I think it has a lot to do with why we have such a low unemployment rate and why we've been pretty successful in attracting economic investment to the state," Hershman said. Indiana's overall rank continues to be effectively tied with Utah. Last year, Indiana ranked eighth and Utah ninth. The Tax Foundation switched their positions this year to put Utah ahead of Indiana. The top five business tax climates are found in Wyoming (1), South Dakota (2), Alaska (3), Florida (4) and Nevada (5). The lowest ranked states are Minnesota (46), Vermont/Washington, D.C. (47), California (48), New York (49) and New Jersey (50). LAPORTE A 26-year-old man has been charged in the alleged armed burglary early Friday at a residential pole barn in the 7500 West block of County Road 900 South. Charles Appleberry was charged with felony burglary and felony unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon and is being held in the LaPorte County Jail on a $50,000 bond. Appleberry, who said he is homeless, is believed to be connected to about 100 thefts and burglaries over the course of the past six months throughout LaPorte County, LaPorte County Sheriff's spokesman Capt. Michael Kellams said. About 12:40 a.m. Friday, a resident of the rural area south and west of Westville spotted Appleberry allegedly breaking into his pole barn and confronted him. The homeowner, 52, who had his own gun, wrestled a handgun away from Appleberry and fired his rifle into the air as Appleberry fled. That led to a manhunt throughout the area. Police using K-9 teams tracked the suspect about two miles to the northwest before losing the scent. The incident resulted in Westville schools undergoing a soft lockdown during the morning hours, police said. After being spotted by an area resident, Appleberry was taken into custody shortly after 9:30 a.m. Friday in a field near the 6600 South block of County Road 800 West, according to Kellems. He attempted to flee, but was tackled by sheriff's Deputy Rashaun Sinclair. VALPARAISO Trenton Jordan is bringing his mom's recipe for a special sauce to the city. Jordan and Amber Fenn, co-owners of the proposed Louie Wingz & Catfish, presented their plans to the Valparaiso Site Review Committee on Tuesday morning. Jordan, of Harvey, Illinois, said they plan to open the restaurant at 454 Greenwich sometime in December or January. His family owns a sister restaurant, Tez Wings, in Midwest City, Oklahoma. The new restaurant is named after his brother, Louie, who died in 2010. When the family of 10 children hit hard times growing up, Jordan recalled, it was his older brother who would always bring home a bag of chicken wings to feed his siblings. Jordan said the restaurant will feature Chicago-style chicken wings using his mother's barbecue-based sauce, along with catfish. The couple said they decided on the Valparaiso location because of the proximity to Valparaiso University and conducted a community survey which indicated a desire to have a Chicago-style wings eatery in the city. The restaurant will predominantly provide carry-out service with limited seating. Independent financial advisory firms Bradley Nuttall and iQ2 Private Wealth have merged into Cambridge Partners.Cambridge Partners said leveraging Bradley Nuttalls 23 years of experience in personalised financial advice, the firm has a unique outlook on financial planning, offering evidence-based investment approach to its clients.Cambridge Partners Founder Jacob Wolt said: Independence, integrity and transparency are of utmost importance when advising our clients. Weve both developed an enduring investment philosophy based on leading edge academic theory and research and we are both fee only, which means that we do not accept commissions from any investment products.This merger enables us to join forces to bring expert, independent and transparent financial advice to even more people across New Zealand, Wolt said.Cambridge Partners said it will offer a nationwide service. Uganda Technology and Management University (Utamu) last week saw off 284 of its former students, graduating with degrees and diplomas at a colorful ceremony at Silver Springs hotel in Bugolobi. The graduands received postgraduate and undergraduate qualifications in various business and computer-based programmes. Addressing the graduands, vice chancellor Prof Benon Basheka challenged them to use the skills acquired to create employment, while spreading the gospel of Utamu by their good works. Some of Utamu graduands In his speech, he explained that 80 per cent of the graduates were from the School of Business Management, while 62 per cent were male students and only 38 per cent female. University Chancellor Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, urged the graduands to make an impact on society. If you want to change the world, begin with making your bed; education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world; it is the key to reducing poverty and preventing needless debts, he said. The chancellor also commended the graduands on their hard work and strong commitment, which he said is much needed in todays world of work. Dr Kalonzo Musyoka, who is also a former Kenyan vice president, hosted several political leaders, including Moses Wetangula, Kenyan high commissioner to Uganda Geoffrey Okanga and Ugandan parliamentarian Gerald Karuhanga. nyapendi.victoria1@gmail.com Last Thursday was a unique day for Kampalas comedy industry as two comedy shows happened on the same night and at venues just metres away from each other Diners Lounge and The 400 Lounge. Both are located in Bukoto, a city suburb. It all started when Diners Lounge management canceled its contract with Alex Muhangi and his Comedy Store franchise and hired another comedian, Ronnie McVex, to handle its comedy shows which have been happening, since mid last year, every Thursday. Comedians in diapers at 400 Muhangi wasnt willing to let what he described as his baby die, and sought refuge at The 400 Lounge, which is just 20 metres from Diners. Muhangi, together with The 400 bar management, called a press conference on Wednesday to announce the acts new home and also clear the air. According to Muhangi, Comedy Store had grown too big for Diners to handle; so, we had to move to another [bigger] place. Diners Lounge management, however, says Muhangi breached his contract when he recently left for the USA where he was part of the comedy team that attended the UNAA convention. During that period, he posted that there would be no comedy until he returned. Diners also says they had various unresolved wrangles over production but Muhangi denies all that. As such, we waited to see who would pull it off. Muhangi had a massive list of comedians lined up to perform, including Madrat and Chico, Amooti, Mariachi, T. Male, Snake and Zolo, Dikanio, Crazy University and Kobusheshe. To spice it up was DJ Crim, Mr Silverback and Winnie Nwagi. Comedian Salvado Idringi (C) chilling with Vince Musisi (L) and Tony Mutengu at Diners Lounge Diners, on the other hand, had Optional Allan, Napoleon, Mendo and ghetto-president-turned-member-of-parliament, Bobi Wine. Even before the show could kick off, at around 5:30pm, KCCA officials stormed Diners Lounge and confiscated their sound system, citing sound pollution. But this didnt faze Diners; they quickly hired new equipment and sorted out the issue with the authorities. This created uproar on social media, many comments suggesting it was political, citing the presence of Bobi Wine. Others alleged it was foul play instigated by The 400 Lounge. I guess we will find out pretty soon. By 8pm, both venues had reasonable crowds, with bands playing. As the clock ticked, Diners proved it could pull a bigger crowd. Bobi Wine delivered the cherry on the cake with a comical performance, making satirical comments about the recent chaos in parliament and how he was manhandled by security operatives. The crowd cheered him all the way. McVex promised to have the shows every Thursday. At The 400, the list of comedians became too long for all to perform. Winnie Nwagi wrapped up the night, though the heavens had opened up by then. Jonathan Kyeyo, the proprietor of Laftaz Lounge, which once hosted all the comedians featuring at both venues at a weekly comedy show, says, Competition is healthy if it is for the right reasons. It is just a matter of time before we see who will still be standing. feupal@observer.ug Inspired by popular Instagram accounts like Rich Kids of Instagram or Luxury Kids of Instagram, as well as social media stars like Gianluca Vachi and Dan Bilzerian, people who cant actually afford to fly on private jets are renting them on the ground for professional photo shoots, just so they can post their own lavish lifestyle photos on Instagram. Just because you dont have tens of thousands of dollars to spend on renting a private jet doesnt mean that you cant make your social media friends turn green with envy. With just a few hundred dollars, you can actually rent a luxurious Gulfstream G650 aircraft for a couple of hours and have a team of professional photographers and makeup artists create the illusion that you are actually living a life of luxury. You can then post the photos on Instagram and sit back as your friends and fans drool over them. Photo: Private Jet Studio According to Russian website Medialeaks, Instagram star wannabes can now pose as spoiled rich folks on a modest budget, by using the services of Moscow-based Private Jet Studio, a company that offers private photo sessions in their grounded Gulfstream G650 private jet. Customers never actually get to fly in it, but your Instagram followers dont need to know that technical detail. To them youll be living the dream, flying in style to some of the worlds hottest tourist attractions. Photo: Private Jet Studio Prices for a 2-hour photo session with the Gulfstream G650 vary between 14,000 25,000 rubles ($250 500), depending on what extras clients opt for. You can have your photos taken inside the aircraft, as you relax on the comfortable white leather seats, with a glass of expensive champagne and a plate of delicious foods in front of you, as you prepare to board the plane, with a gorgeous model waiting for you on the steps, or as you arrive at your fictional destination. Private Jet Studio is also open to suggestions, as long as youre willing to pay extra. Photo: Private Jet Studio/Instagram And if $250 still sounds too expensive for your blood, you can actually create the illusion of wealth and luxury for cheaper. For example, simply having your photo taken aboard the private jet, as you stare out the window at the tarmac (read gorgeous view), without the companys professional staff, only costs 11,000 rubles ($190). But you can also just wait for one of their promotions, when you can get the whole package for only 7,000 rubles ($120). Thats cheaper than a conventional photo studio, right? Photo: Private Jet Studio If youre thinking that the services offered by Private Jet Studio are a waste of money, youre probably not chasing Instagram fame. Posting photos of yourself flaunting your wealth are a sure way to success, and if you dont have a lot of money to spend, this is a pretty decent alternative. Photo: Private Jet Studio Services offering fake Instagram photos are actually pretty popular in Russia. Earlier this year, another startup started offering girls the chance to pose with a giant bouquet of roses and expensive gifts. They were only rented, of course, but their friends and followers didnt know that. IABC, reflecting declines in corporate PR employment, showed a drop in net assets from $1M in 2012 to $222K in 2016 after a dip to $14K in 2015. Membership has fallen from the 14,000 level, where it held for many years, to 10,000. Revenues in 2016 were $3,927,641 vs. $5,452,845 in 2013, a drop of 28%. Most members are in corporate and organizational jobs, concentrating on internal communications. Stephanie Doute Executive director Stephanie Doute has been asked for an explanation of decline and has promised an answer. Queries have also been sent to chair Sharon Hunter, strategic communicator and facilitator, Concordia University, Montreal, and Mike Holden, senior marketing manager. IABCs decline, even though it has had Communicators in its title for more than 40 years, sounds a cautionary note to PR Society of America which is planning to insert communications in many places in its bylaws. It considers the term more inclusive than PR. The 2017 PRSA Assembly voted on such changes Oct. 7 but the Society has yet to reveal the wording that was passed. IABC abandoned its Accredited Business Communicator program several years ago because of low participation. PR Shifts to Agencies Also a victim of the shrinkage of corporate PR is the PR trade press, which has seen the demise of nine printed publications although some of them survive as websites. PR Week/US, which came to the U.S. in 1998, switched to monthly publication in 2009 and now publishes ten times a year. Printed directories of PRSA, IABC, National Investor Relations Institute, Publicity Clubs and other organizations ceased publishing many years ago. The one remaining printed directory in PR is ODwyers Directory of PR Firms, which has followed the PR industry into the agencies. The Directory and ODwyers magazine have tracked the growth of 12 PR specialties in both printed publications and in digital editions IABC Drew 1,000 to D.C. Conference Jon Iwata, SVP/marketing and communications, gave the keynote address to 1,000 registrants at annual conference at the Washington Hilton Hotel June 14, 2017. He urged attendees to embrace rather than fear the development and spread of artificial intelligence. As an example of the friendship that can exist between humans and AI, he cited the robot RD2D that played a big role in the Star Wars film series. He described victories of AI over humans including its defeat of a pair of Jeopardy winners several years ago. IBMs Watson was also able to defeat chess champions. Iwata told how IBMs supercomputer was programmed to handle the questions on Jeopardy, showing a video of company scientists at work on the programming for the show. Alfred Leach MMI rebrands as BAERING. The renamed firm will be providing advisory, strategic communications and creative services for a variety of clients in North Carolinas Research Triangle region. In addition to taking on a new name and visual identity, the firm is moving from Cary, North Carolina to Raleigh. The new namea hybrid of Faering, an early ship used in Viking sea exploration, and the directional term bearingis meant to reflect the firms ability to provide clients with counsel and direction through uncharted challenges and opportunities. Baering is a new breed of agency, said president and chief strategy officer Alfred Leach. With accountability center stage, C-suite leaders require trusted advisors who understand the unique challenges they face. This is our currency and what Baering is built to deliver. Jonathan Goldman Fenton created a partnership with Change Research, a public interest corporation that says it offers fast, affordable and accurate political polling at a 90% discount on traditional polling. Started by former LinkedIn data scientists Jonathan Goldman and Mike Greenfield, and PR & Company founder Pat Reilly, Change Research uses proprietary techniques that aim to combine the speed and low cost of online polls with the scientific approach of traditional phone surveys. The company is working on races in New Jersey and Virginia for this election cycle, as well as with issue-advocacy non-profits across the country. Audra & Jim Weiss W2O Group and Syracuse University will mark fifth anniversary of the W2O-Newhouse Center for Social Commerce with festivities slated from Nov. 8-10. W2O founder/CEO Jim Weiss and wife, Audra, both Syracuse graduates, established the Center, at SU's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, in 2012. Given the transformative nature of business, we believed it was imperative to create a mechanism to educate the next generation of communications professionals to excel in a social and digital environment, said Jim Weiss. An evening event, Making Data Work: Marketing, Public Relations and Organizational Health, will run at the Newhouse Schools Joyce Hergehan Auditorium from 6-7:30 p.m. on November 9, and is open to the public (no tickets necessary). In addition to Jim Weiss, the speakers will be Mike Fay, VP-communications, IBM; Gulden Mesara, VP health & commercial communications, AbbVie; and Melanie Marcus, chief marketing officer, Surescripts. Information is at http://socialcommerce.syr.edu/. OECD employment rate increases to 67.6% in the second quarter of 2017 Download the entire news release (graphs and tables included PDF) 17/10/2017 - The OECD area employment rate defined as the share of people of working-age in employment increased by 0.2 percentage point in the second quarter of 2017, to 67.6%; 3.2 percentage points above the 2009 low and 1.0 percentage point above the previous peak in 2008. Around 559 million persons were employed in the second quarter of 2017, 26 million more than in the second quarter of 2008. Compared to the first quarter of 2017, the euro area employment rate rose by 0.3 percentage point (to 66.2%), with the highest quarterly increases observed in Greece (up 0.8 percentage point, to 53.6%), Portugal (up 0.6 percentage point, to 67.3%), Spain (up 0.6 percentage point, to 61.0%) and Slovenia (up 0.5 percentage point, to 68.7%); by contrast, the employment rate fell by 0.7 percentage point, to 73.0%, in Estonia. Employment rates also increased in the United Kingdom (by 0.3 percentage point, to 74.2%), Japan (by 0.2 percentage point, to 75.2%), the United States (by 0.2 percentage point, to 70.0%), and marginally in Korea (to 66.6%). Employment rates were stable in Canada (at 73.3%) and Turkey (at 50.9%) but decreased by 0.3 percentage point in Mexico (to 61.1%) and by 0.5 percentage point in New Zealand (to 76.2%). The higher OECD area employment level since the second quarter of 2008 reflects employment gains in services as employment still remains below pre-crisis levels in industry and in agriculture. As a result, the service sector's share (73.3%) of OECD employment was 2.6 percentage points higher than in the second quarter of 2008, while that for agriculture (4.6%) and industry (22.1%) were, respectively, 0.4 and 2.1 percentage points lower. The decrease in the share of employment in industry was especially pronounced in southern European countries, with declines of 4.0 percentage points or more in Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal. Offaly is counting the cost this morning after Hurricane Ophelia battered the country on Monday. The county's Major Emergency Team, involving emergency services and council staff, is orchestrating the response and clean-up after the deadly storm. Dozens of roads are blocked or partially blocked in Offaly as staff deal with loose power cables, fallen trees and debris from damaged property. "Please be extremely vigilant if you are out and about in the coming days as trees, electrical power lines and other structures may be unsecure and hazardous. People should be particularly careful around farm yards, warehouses, industrial areas and derelict buildings," the Offaly Major Emergency Team said. Power Nationwide, up to 240,000 people are still without electricity as a result of Ophelia. ESB crews were working last night as the storm passed and power has been restored to many homes, bringing down the numbers affected from a peak of 360,000. Crews will be out today and in the coming days to restore power, a process that is somewhat complicated by structural damage and debris. ESB Networks have warned that it may be eight days before everyone has seen their power restored. Follow live outage updates on www.esb.ie. Water Meanwhile, the Operational Planning and Emergency Manager at Irish Water, Katherine Walshe, said around 92 schemes are at risk, serving 360,000 people, if power is not restored in some areas before lunchtime. "This impacts customers where storage isn't available in the reservoirs or where the water quality cannot be guaranteed," she said. This issue is predominantly affecting the south of the country, although there are reported water outages locally throughout the country. Burst water mains also pose a flooding risk in local areas. The majority of problems for Irish Water are in counties Cork, Kerry, Wexford, Waterford, Galway, Leitrim, Westmeath and Cavan. Find out more on www.water.ie. The Human Cost Hurricane Ophelia took a considerable human cost, claiming three lives and endangering hundreds more. A woman died in Waterford after a tree fell on her car, while a man was killed in a similar incident in Dundalk. A third man passed away in Tipperary in an incident with a chainsaw as he attempted to clear a tree from a road. There were numerous stories of near misses with trees falling on occupied cars around the country. The HSE has warned that A&E departments will be busier than normal today as hospitals resume full duties, including outpatient procedures, which were cancelled yesterday. Transport On the transport front, most services, including Irish Rail and Bus Eireann, have resumed, but they are warning of running delays caused by fallen trees and lines on routes. They have urged people to check with their provider before travelling and to expect delays as the clean-up continues. A number of Irish Rail services, mostly between Galway, Limerick and Dublin, are running at reduced capacity. The Luas remains out of action until 12pm today when a meeting will be held to discuss its return to service. Hundreds of flights were cancelled yesterday but Dublin Airport is now running a full service, although passengers are advised to check with their airline before travelling to the terminal. Risk of Flooding The timing of the storm on Monday coincided with low tides in most areas, reducing the risk of serious flooding. There is issues with flooding locally due to burst water mains and pipes, but coastal flooding has not become a problem as a result of Hurricane Ophelia. Flooding alerts in places like Limerick were cancelled as Ophelia passed over quickly without significant sea issues. Spot flooding has been reported in some areas, predominantly along the South West coast, and caution is advised in those areas with sitting water on some roads and walking routes. Schools & Colleges The Department of Education took the decision on Monday evening to keep schools closed again on Tuesday. This decision caused widespread disruption to parents who were due back at work, but the Department justified the call by suggesting it gives schools a chance to assess the damage/power/water situation before taking in hundreds of children. It is expected that 90% of schools will re-open on Wednesday but parents are urged to check with their child's school before travelling. Structural damage has been caused to some school buildings, mostly in the South West, posing a potential health and safety risk to pupils and staff. Most third level colleges opened on Tuesday and are now set to remain open in the long-term without disruption. Storm Brian The Irish Times reported on Tuesday morning that Ireland may yet suffer more stormy conditions at the weekend. Weather charts show that Storm Brian is tracking towards Ireland and the UK, bringing with it winds of up to 140km/h. You can keep up to date with all weather updates and warning on www.met.ie. Following a review of the overnight situation, Offaly Crisis Management Team met this morning to assess the situation in the county following Ex-Hurricane Ophelia yesterday. A number of roads remain closed today Tuesday 17th October which include; Local road in Gloster from N62 to Brosna Ballycommon Road from the Church to the Bridge Coolderry at the GAA field Coolfin, Banagher near the graveyard R441 from Rhode Village to Edenderry Offaly Major Emergency Team have again appealed for everyone to exercise extreme caution as road conditions are still hazardous with fallen trees, loose power cables and debris. Offaly County Council in collaboration with Irish Water are currently experiencing water shortages in Rhode and Walsh Island. Normal service is expected to return later today.The Public are advised to contact Irish Water directly on 1850 278 278 to report all water issues. The clean-up operation commenced at first light this morning with all resources deployed to restore normal services to the public. Offaly Major Emergency Team have acknowledged the Publics continued co-operation during this extreme weather event and reiterate the advice is not to attend to fallen trees, poles or electrical cables and continue to report these incidents to the emergency number at Offaly County Council 057 93 46800 or email customerservices@offalycoco.ie Agricultural News Oklahoma Rep. Frank Lucas Co-sponsors SALE Act to Protect Livestock Producers and Marketers Oklahoma's 3rd District Representative Frank Lucas, is cosponsoring a bill, introduced by Congressman Roger Marshall , the bipartisan Securing All Livestock Equitably (S.A.L.E.) Act, which will offer protections to sale barns and livestock producers from the recurring trend of defaults of livestock dealers. The S.A.L.E. Act would place livestock sold to a dealer, and proceeds/receivables from already sold livestock, in a trust until the original seller has been paid, ensuring that producers and livestock auctions have a legal recourse in the event of a dealer default and/or bankruptcy. "Dealer defaults can financially ruin livestock sellers and ultimately destabilize confidence in cattle markets," said Congressman Lucas. "I cosponsored the S.A.L.E. Act so that we can implement protections in the cattle transaction process to ensure producers and livestock marketers are fully compensated for their hard work." One high-profile example of a livestock dealer defaulting on producers and livestock markets was the case of the Eastern Livestock Company in Kentucky. In that case, producers and livestock markets received 5 cents for every sales dollar in bond payments. "Every weekend for two years growing up, I spent my Saturdays working at a sale barn in El Dorado, Kansas," said Congressman Marshall, the author of this bill. "And while that was hard work, today's world of cattle is a little more complicated than when I was sorting heifers and steers. Unfortunately, our friends at those sale barns are often left holding hot checks. This bill will help protect those businesses and the producers working with them. Current law puts our livestock producers and markets in the precarious position of being cheated out of millions of dollars of cattle by unfairly giving creditors priority over cattle they purchased, but never paid for. This bill would assure that producers and markets are paid for cattle." "Farmers and ranchers frequently have their livelihoods tied up in large livestock transactions," said Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC), Chairman of the House Ag Subcommittee on Livestock and Foreign Agriculture. "Putting in place protections in the transaction process will be vital to safeguarding our cattle producers and the overall market. I'm pleased to join my colleague, Congressman Roger Marshall, in introducing this bill and look forward to working with the Agriculture Committee and our other colleagues to make it law." "Having seen firsthand the devastation so many cattle farmers in Kentucky faced as a result of the Eastern Livestock scandal, I proudly support this amendment to the Packers and Stockyards Act. The livestock business can be difficult as it is," said Congressman James Comer (R-KY), who was Kentucky's Ag Commissioner during the case of the Eastern Livestock Company. "The last thing ranchers and livestock sellers need is to be left holding the bag when another business fails. This common-sense legislation provides them the protection they need against a dealer default and a greater opportunity to be made whole." See more HERE. Original co-sponsors: Rep. Lucas, Frank D. (R-OK-3) Rep. Rouzer, David (R-NC-7) Rep. Comer, James (R-KY-1) Rep. Young, David (R-IA-3) Rep. Hartzler, Vicky (R-MO-4) Rep. Smith, Jason (R-MO-8) Rep. King, Steve (R-IA-4) Rep. Thompson, Glenn (R-PA-5) Rep. Yoho, Ted S. (R-FL-3) Rep. Costa, Jim (D-CA-16) Rep. Bustos, Cheri (D-IL-17) Rep. Sewell, Terri A. (D-AL-7) Rep. Soto, Darren (D-FL-9) Rep. Arrington, Jodey C. (R-TX-19) Source - The Office of Congressman Frank Lucas WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady NSI Top Agricultural News A state court has upheld the 40-year prison sentence of Brian Robeson, the former Omaha middle school teacher who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a former student. Robeson had appealed to the Nebraska Court of Appeals, arguing that the sentence was too harsh and that he received an ineffective defense from his lawyers. Robeson, 37, is serving a 40-year prison sentence at the Nebraska State Penitentiary after pleading guilty in September 2016 to first-degree sexual assault as part of a plea agreement. In exchange for the plea, the Douglas County Attorneys Office dropped a second sexual assault charge. Under state sentencing guidelines, he will have to serve half of that before he can be released. Over the course of more than a year, authorities say, he was involved in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a former student, with the assaults starting when she was 13 and a student at Alfonza W. Davis Middle School. Robeson taught seventh-grade math at the school. Robeson was employed by the Omaha Public Schools for 13 years. He was fired shortly after his arrest in December 2015. In his appeal, Robeson contended that the sentence handed down by Douglas County District Judge Kimberly Pankonin was excessive and did not take into account mitigating factors, including Robesons history of alcoholism, his rocky childhood and his relationship with his two young children. In addition, Robeson said the sentencing shouldnt have occurred without a presentence investigation report. The appeals court, made up of a three-judge panel, said in an opinion delivered Tuesday that Robeson waived his right to a presentence report when he and his lawyer requested an expedited sentencing after entering the guilty plea. Robeson said at the time that he didnt know all the facts about presentence reports. The court also rejected Robesons claim that the sentence was excessive, noting that he agreed to a plea agreement for 40 years in prison. The parents of the victim have filed a federal lawsuit against Robeson, OPS and Davis Principal Dan Bartels, alleging that the district and several administrators ignored warning signs that Robeson was grooming and assaulting their daughter. Even after cancer treatments and two brain surgeries left her weakened and in pain, Westside teacher Teresa Teri Donoho was still determined to make her way back to the classroom and the job she loved. But it was not to be Donoho died Sept. 30 at age 57 after a nearly two-year-long fight with cancer. She never gave up, even at the end, said her husband, Jay Donoho. Donoho was born in Omaha and taught computer science and math at Westside Middle School, Westside High and the districts alternative program. She also taught at Goffstown High School in New Hampshire. Donoho was a loving mother and stepmother to a blended family of six children, Jay Donoho said. I never smiled as much in my life as I did the last 19 years with her, he said. She had an adventurous spirit after earning her diving certification several years ago, you couldnt keep her out of the water, he said. He watched in awe as she climbed up and rappelled down cliffs and jumped into water a sport called canyoneering on a vacation in Utah one year. She was a dedicated teacher who loved to help out with middle school musical productions and always went the extra mile for her students, her husband said. Mourners friends, colleagues, former students packed her memorial service this month. In 2016, she was diagnosed with poorly defined squamous cell carcinoma. Doctors found cancer in her lungs, lymph nodes and abdominal region. After a grueling round of chemotherapy, she went into remission. She kept teaching for as long as she could, her husband said. The cancer returned, and scans later found two tumors in her brain. Donoho underwent two brain surgeries this summer, just three weeks apart. Two weeks after the last surgery, she returned to the hospital in serious pain and later died there. Doctors think she may have suffered a blood clot. Donoho was a private woman with a strong faith, her husband said. Shes in no more pain, no more sorrow, no more tears, he said. She is the one who fought and fought. In addition to her husband, Donohos survivors include children Knicholas, Kristopher and Kameron; stepchildren Jay Jr., Pam and Chloe; two grandsons; her parents; and two sisters. The public and Omaha City Council members weighed in on waste hauling, DACA and panhandlers in the medians during a trio of public hearings Tuesday. The waste hauling and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals public hearings preceded votes. Mayor Jean Stotherts proposed ordinance banning loitering in certain city medians could go to a vote next week. The council voted 5-0 to urge Congress to pass legislation extending the provisions of the DACA program. Council members Vinny Palermo, Pete Festersen, Chris Jerram, Ben Gray and Rich Pahls voted yes. Aimee Melton and Brinker Harding abstained, saying it is a federal issue. The council also voted, 7-0, to pay SCS Engineers $99,000 to help the city develop its request for bids for a waste hauling contract. The bid is expected to go out next year. The current contract expires in 2020. The city ran a pilot project in which each house was provided two 96-gallon covered, wheeled carts, one for trash and one for recycling. Michael J. OHara, representing the Sierra Club, urged the council to maintain the separate collection of yard waste and to continue composting it. He said the city should consider charging more for OmaGro. He said the city also could save money by offering the option of smaller carts. You shouldnt have to pay for 96 gallons if Im never going to fill 35, he said. Festersen said hes unlikely to support a contract that doesnt address cart sizes, separate yard waste collection and enhanced recycling. He asked Public Works Director Bob Stubbe if all were still on the table? Stubbe said yes. Jerram said Public Works has been very accommodating in collecting public input but asked Stubbe to continue involving the public. He asked Stubbe to consider bringing the request for bids to the council before publishing it. Thats not normally done, Stubbe said. But he agreed to consider it. Melton noted there had been four well-attended open houses. She said she heard there that people want the option of smaller bins. Melton said she wants a bid on the cost of collecting yard waste and trash together compared to separately. On DACA, nine people testified in favor of Palermos proposed resolution. It urges Congress to act swiftly to adopt the legislation necessary to protect Americas Dreamers. The President Barack Obama-era program, known as DACA, applies to young undocumented immigrants, called Dreamers, whose parents illegally brought them to the U.S. as minors. The program grants temporary protection from deportation and the ability to work or go to school for applicants who meet guidelines that include having no serious criminal background. About 800,000 people nationally, including about 3,300 in Nebraska, are enrolled. President Donald Trump announced plans in September to phase out DACA but gave Congress six months to address it through legislation. Armando Becerril said he was brought from Mexico at age 4, graduated from the University of Nebraska and now works as an accountant. He said if those protected by DACA are sent back to the countries they came from, it will cost the U.S. billions in lost economic activity. Creighton University law professor David Weber said DACA participants are a tremendous asset. Janet Bonet, a lifelong South Omahan, called DACA wise and forward-looking. Susan Gumm, one of three people to speak against the resolution, said DACA participants and their parents are at fault for their situation. She said that amnesty causes more illegal immigration and that DACA participants compete with American citizens for jobs. Festersen, who co-sponsored the resolution, praised DACA participants for their courage in overcoming adversity and in speaking out Tuesday. Jerram said local businesses, universities and religious institutions had stressed the importance of DACA protections. He said the council should let Congress know its a critical issue for Omaha. The council also took public input and discussed Stotherts proposed ordinance to ban people from loitering on narrow medians near Omahas busiest intersections. The ordinance was proposed in response to complaints about panhandlers and others in the medians. The ordinance is meant to pass constitutional muster by not targeting panhandlers. Some people who testified Tuesday didnt buy that. Brian Gonzaba called it a ruse and an anti-panhandling ordinance that is disguised as a call to action on public safety. But George Huffaker, who said panhandlers had vandalized his property, said he supported the ordinance as a good step. Huffaker urged people to donate to agencies that serve the poor rather than give to people in medians. Harding, Melton and Jerram said the issue truly is a public safety matter. Harding noted that the ordinance wouldnt stop people from asking for money or campaigning on street corners. Gary Thiemann grew up an adopted son in a loving family and never wondered much about his biological mother. But he was never far from his mothers thoughts. The thing that really bothered me the most was when a body would be found someplace and I would wonder if that was him, Mary Ann Rut said. But it would turn out to be a woman or the age wouldnt be right. I also had another life. Id gotten married and had two more children. Rut, who lives in Lincoln, found out 63 years later that she need not have worried. Her son had been adopted by a couple from Lincoln through the Nebraska Childrens Home Society in Omaha. Thiemann went on to become a successful businessman in the grocery industry. Mother and son finally were reunited in May at his home in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he had retired. Also at that meeting was Thiemanns half sister Karen McCain, 51, of Lincoln. We all hugged and cried, Karen McCain said. Then we started talking and kept talking and talking. All of a sudden it was midnight. McCains brother, Keith Rut, 54, of York, was unable to make the trip to Louisiana. Thiemann met his half brother for the first time on Sunday in Lincoln. The second chapter of the reunion continued Tuesday at the Nebraska Childrens Home Society, 3549 Fontenelle Blvd. Thiemann and his wife, Laurette, brought baby shower gifts for the facility, as did his mother and half sister. Garys church and his friends donated a lot of items, McCain said. So did our friends. It was nice to give back to the place where it all started. Rut and Thiemann sat holding hands on a couch at the childrens home as they talked about how their happy reunion had unfolded. Around them were clustered McCains family, including an adopted son, and Thiemanns wife. McCain had long wondered about the half brother she had never known. She learned more than 30 years ago that her mother had been sent from Lincoln to Omaha at age 14 to give birth. In those days, it was an embarrassing thing for a family, Rut said. You were sent away to have the baby. The family links became apparent after McCain and Thiemann both took DNA tests. She took the test because she was curious about finding her half brother. He did it at the urging of his wife. I was always curious, but he wasnt, Laurette Thiemann said. Mainly, I wanted to know more about his medical history for the sake of our own two sons. When McCain learned that she had a close match for a relative, she went through the testing company to contact Thiemann. The first message the company passed on to him simply said, Could you be adopted? Thiemann knew he had been adopted, but McCains question prompted him to seek more information about his birth mother. The company provided McCain and Thiemann with each others email addresses, and the half siblings began to trade messages. Thiemann said it became pretty evident pretty quickly that this was family. McCain then asked her mother if she wanted to meet her son. Without hesitation, her answer was yes. The first thing everyone noticed, McCain said, was how much Gary looks like his half brother, Keith. Keiths high school yearbook picture and Garys wedding picture show men who could be twins, she said. Its amazing how much they look alike, said their mother. They dont have the same father, so it must be me. In Shreveport, the siblings and their mother recorded their story on video. Thiemanns church has shown the video at a pregnancy crisis center as an example of how adoption can work out well for both mother and child. He never would have been the man he is today if I had kept him, Rut said. He would have been 4 years old when I graduated from high school. I could never have taken care of him like (his adoptive parents) did. WASHINGTON The head of the Environmental Protection Agency sought Tuesday to calm Midwestern senators who could block his nominees if the agency sets renewable fuel mandates too low. All four GOP senators from Iowa and Nebraska attended Tuesdays face-to-face meeting with EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt in the Capitol Hill office of Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa. After the meeting, lawmakers indicated that they got assurances of more conversation but no commitment on numbers. Just hours before the meeting, Grassley bluntly answered a reporters question about what leverage the group would have if the agency fails to listen. Hold up EPA nominees, Grassley said. I think theres plenty of senators would do that. The dispute centers on the EPAs recently released proposals for the mandated levels of ethanol and biodiesel usage under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Those policies are followed closely by Nebraska and Iowa, the nations top two producers of ethanol. Renewable fuels groups have criticized the agencys latest numbers as too low, particularly its levels for biodiesel. A bipartisan group of 33 senators wrote Pruitt on Monday objecting to those biodiesel requirements as insufficient. These proposed volumes do not reflect the existing potential for the biodiesel and renewable diesel industries in our states and could cause near-term job losses and discourage investment in capacity and new fuel development, they wrote. Grassley signed that letter, along with Sens. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., and Joni Ernst, R-Iowa. Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., did not sign it but instead sent his own letter saying that while the agency has some waiver authority, it should strive to issue volume requirements that respect the intent of Congress. Sasse praised Pruitt for listening to concerns during Tuesdays meeting and explaining the pressures coming from various interests. He said Pruitt was not in a position to offer guarantees because he has to gather more information before finalizing the numbers next month. Pruitt left the meeting without speaking to reporters. Fischer and Ernst are both members of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, which oversees the agency and will be considering EPA nominees. The administrator gave us assurances that hes going to continue his conversations with us and committed to working with us on a variety of issues that deal with the RFS, Fischer said after the meeting. Fischer indicated support for at least one key EPA nominee but did not rule out using the nomination process to get the agencys attention on the RFS. There are always options available for senators to use, Fischer said. An Oklahoman, Pruitts ties to the oil and gas industry caused some heartburn among Midwestern senators when he was nominated for the position, and he won confirmation only after offering them reassurances during a similar meeting in Grassleys office. Ernst recalled that earlier session in a press release she issued after Tuesdays meeting. Administrator Pruitt again claimed today that he will not do anything to undermine the program, Ernst said. However, we have heard this before. We now need to see it. I will continue to work with the EPA, but they must prove to the agricultural community who put their faith in this administration that they will fulfill their promise to maintain the letter and the spirit of the RFS. We will not accept anything less. Speaking to reporters, Grassley pointed to President Donald Trumps campaign promises to support ethanol. Grassley said Trump called him not long ago to assure him that he would stand by that support. I reiterated this story to Mr. Pruitt and said that you can get in the weeds about what you ought to do or not do as a way of policy, but this is an issue of the president keeping his promise to the people, Grassley said. Sky News 15 Nov 2022 A 36-year-old British Army veteran was killed while on active service with the Ukrainian army after sustaining fatal injuries, an.. World leaders arrive at the G7 summit in Bali, Indonesia as talks continue over support for Ukraine and how to address food.. ODN 15 Nov 2022 Belfast Telegraph 25 Sep 2022 One of five Britons released from captivity by Russian-backed forces has said he did not believe he would survive the ordeal. Eurasia Review 02 Oct 2020 India was the third-largest energy consumer in the world after China and the United States in 2018, according to the BP.. BANG Showbiz 06 Oct 2022 Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine company are developing a new adaptation of 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears'. 2008-2022 One News Page Ltd. All rights reserved. One News is a registered trademark of One News Page Ltd. Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says the government did not receive a mandate to repeal the existing Constitution. He has opposed some of the key proposals made by the Steering Committee of the Constitutional Assembly. Full text of Rajapaksas statement: The government has tabled in Parliament, proposals for a new constitution. The constitutional reform pledges made by the yahapalana coalition at the last presidential election was restricted to changing the system of elections and abolishing the executive presidential system. This government never received a mandate to repeal and replace the existing constitution. We are completely opposed to the following proposals made in the interim report of the Steering Committee of the Constitutional Assembly. It has been proposed that the Sinhala word ekeeya be retained in the Sinhala version of the proposed new constitution, while the English word unitary will be dropped from the English version together with the conceptual framework it denotes. Thus the local population will be under the impression that Sri Lanka still remains a unitary state, but in the eyes of the international community, we will be considered a country that has relinquished unitary status. That such chicanery can even be contemplated is indicative of the mentality of the people driving this constitutional reform process. The intent behind these reforms is made clear by the proposal in page four that the northern and eastern provinces be considered one province. Furthermore it has been proposed that the territory of Sri Lanka which is described in Article 5 of the present Constitution as consisting of the 25 administrative districts named in the relevant Schedule, be instead described in terms of an unspecified number of provinces named in a Schedule rather than the specific number of districts which gives an indication of the intent behind these proposals. It has been proposed to devolve to the provinces all powers and functions that can be carried out at the level of the province on the basis of the principle of subsidiarity. It is on the basis of a similar conceptual framework that the separatists have been agitating for an independent state in the northern and eastern provinces since 1972. Once powers are devolved to the provinces on the basis of subsidiarity, it has been proposed that Parliament should not have the power (even with a two thirds majority) to make any changes to that arrangement without the consent of each and every provincial unit. It has also been proposed that Parliament should not have the power to legislate into law, national standards and national policies without the consent of the proposed second chamber of parliament which would consist mostly of representatives of the provincial units. Furthermore it has been proposed that the list of concurrent powers which confers a certain leadership role on the central government be abolished and those powers also be transferred to the provinces. In addition to all that, the implementation of certain matters coming under the central government are to be assigned to the provinces, thus greatly reducing the role of the central government as befits a federal system. The executive powers of the provincial Governors are to be transferred to the provincial boards of ministers and the Governors are to carry out their duties on the advice of the former to the extent where the Governor will not have the authority even to inform the central government of an emergency situation that has arisen in a province without instructions from the chief minister. Furthermore the time given to the Governors and thereafter to the President to either assent to a provincial statute or refer it to the Supreme Court for a determination on its constitutionality is to be fixed at two weeks and upon the expiry of this period, the statute would automatically be considered to have received executive assent. This will severely restrict the ability of the Central government to control the provinces. Sri Lankas system of devolution has been borrowed from India. According to Article 201 of the Indian Constitution, the President of India has a veto power over any law passed by a state a power the President of Sri Lanka never had. Therefore we cannot agree to a further reduction of the powers of the central government over the provinces. It has been proposed that land powers which belong to the central government under the provisions of the present constitution and the relevant Supreme Court judgments, be transferred to the provinces. Thereafter if the central government makes a request to obtain a state land coming under the provincial councils and the request is turned down, the matter will be referred first to arbitration and thereafter to the proposed constitutional court. In stark contrast to this in India, if the central government requires land in a state, it can be acquired regardless of the consent or otherwise of the state government concerned. Hence no change should be made in the land powers under the present constitution as interpreted by the Supreme Court. It has been proposed to set up a second chamber in parliament with 45 of its 55 members being representatives of the provincial councils. The purpose of this body is to give the provincial representatives a veto power over the law making powers of parliament by making a two thirds majority in the second chamber mandatory to amend the constitution. According to Article 249 of the Indian Constitution, the Rajya Sabha can by a resolution passed with a two thirds majority, confer on Parliament the power to govern one or all of the states. Subject to its renewal each year, this arrangement can be continued for as long as is necessary. This is one of the main constitutional safeguards put in place to preserve the territorial integrity of India. Unless it is vested with powers analogous to Article 249 of the Indian Constitution, a second chamber of Parliament would not be necessary in Sri Lanka. Even though the number of MPs to be elected on the proportional representation system which favours minor parties has been increased to 40%, it has nevertheless been proposed to create small constituencies and multi member constituencies to ensure the representation of various communities. It has also been proposed that an additional number of seats be allocated to the northern province on the basis that those who went overseas due to the war and have not returned after the war ended are displaced people. Making changes to the system of elections so as to promote ethnic and religion based politics is counterproductive. It has also been proposed that the base for electing MPs on the proportional representation system be changed from the district to the province which is another way of promoting federalism. The reason why this latest set of proposals does not mention police powers even though it was mentioned in the earlier documents released by the Constitutional Assembly, could be because the provisions needed to divide the police service into nine units already exist in dormant form in Appendix I of the Ninth schedule of our Constitution due to the 13th Amendment. We believe the national police force should continue to function countrywide as it does at present. Appendix I of the Ninth Schedule of the present Constitution should therefore be amended to suit the prevailing practical reality. There are many other unacceptable provisions in these latest constitutional reform proposals such as; the proposal to abolish the constitutional jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and to confer it on a special constitutional court, various proposals to imbue the prime minister with the characteristics of a president after the executive presidency is abolished, and restrictions on dissolving parliament for a given period following an election etcetera. However we have not commented on such matters here because they are not immediately relevant to what we see as the main objective of these constitutional proposals. Even though a proposal has been made to amend Article 9 of the present Constitution which accords the foremost place to Buddhism, it is clear that this is not one of the yahapalana governments actual priorities at this point in time. Analysts have opined that this proposal to amend Article 9 has been brought in so that it can be abandoned at the last moment in a seeming compromise to mislead the Maha Sangha. Another such proposal which can be abandoned in a seeming compromise so as to mislead the majority community, without doing any harm to the ultimate constitutional objectives of the yahapalana government is the proposal to include in Article 7, the Tamil version of the national anthem. The interim report thus includes several provisions which can be abandoned at the last moment as bargaining points. Everyone knows that the yahapalana government has mastered the art of constitutional and legal deception and dissimulation. The objective of the yahapalana government at this point in time, is not to change the provisions relating to Buddhism or the national anthem but to change the structure of the Sri Lankan state from unitary to federal. The purpose of these constitutional proposals is to meet commitments made to the local and international forces that helped them to capture power in January 2015. The proposed constitutional reforms if implemented will put in place the legal and conceptual framework needed to have in Sri Lanka a Kurdistan or Catalonia style referendum for independence at a future date. The vast majority of the Tamil and Muslim people live outside the northern and eastern provinces. Therefore, the carving out of federal units based on ethnicity or religion and the conferring of sweeping powers on such units should never take place in this country. My request to the government is that they abandon this destructive proposal for a new constitution and to bring forward proposals to implement the original constitutional pledges they made. (Source: The Island) West Linn Paper Company said Monday that it will close down, eliminating roughly 250 jobs and closing the door on the mill's 128-year history. "Several unforeseeable events have led to a significant reduction in available pulp, making continued operations impossible. As a result we will wind up our operations as quickly and efficiently as possible, beginning immediately," Brian Konen, West Linn Paper's chief operating officer, said in a written statement. In a note to employees, obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive, Konen said the decision to close came abruptly. "One of our major pulp suppliers suddenly stopped production due to a major equipment failure, and other pulp suppliers recently withdrew our normal and viable credit terms in the wake of credit and insurance developments in the industry," he wrote. "Accordingly, we are unable to secure the pulp necessary to continue operations and do not have sufficient economic resources to idle our plant pending improved conditions." In addition to the mill in West Linn, Konen said West Linn Paper will shut down a warehouse, logistics and transportation site in Vancouver. The riverfront mill opened in 1889 and once employed 1,600 people, making newsprint, wrapping paper and paper bags. Historians credited it with helping fuel regional publishing, and supplying paper for publications across the country. Originally Willamette Falls Pulp and Paper Co., later owned by Crown Zellerbach, it took its current name from an investment group that acquired it in 1997. The mill once made its own pulp but shut down those grinders in 1991 and began buying pulp from suppliers in the U.S. and Canada. Oregon's job market remains historically strong, with the statewide unemployment rate at 4.2 percent. However, several large employers including SolarWorld, Microsoft, SureID have cut jobs this year. The state's forest products industry, meanwhile, has been in steady decline for decades. Oregon timber harvests have declined from more than 8 billion board feet in the 1970s to 4 billion board feet now, according to a new report by the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis. The sector's employment has fallen from 80,000 direct jobs during the '70s to around 30,000. And the state report found wages have stagnated, held down by automation, competition and an abundance of workers created by the closure of other former mills and timber operations. -- Mike Rogoway; twitter: @rogoway; 503-294-7699 Two people were killed Monday after a car crashed into a pole in rural Clackamas County, deputies said. The car rolled over and struck a pole in the 8800 block of Monte Cristo Road at about 2:45 p.m., Clackamas County sheriff's spokesman Deputy Hayden Sanders said. The car's two occupants were killed in the crash. They have not been publicly identified pending family notifications, Sanders said. Deputies believe speed may have been a factor, but are still investigating what caused the crash, Sanders said. The road was closed as deputies investigate, but should reopen by mid-evening, Sanders said. No other details were immediately available. This story will be updated. -- Samantha Matsumoto By Michael Russell | The Oregonian, OregonLive In Italy, there are as many pasta dishes as towns. Maybe more. Dough made from a cornucopia of grains might be sliced into ribbons, rolled into amusing shapes or pushed through an extruder, each then slicked in a rainbow of sauces, dropped in broth or baked in an oven. The combinations are practically limitless. Here in Portland, the pasta selection might not be quite as diverse, but it's still impressive, with dozens of restaurants devoted to the carb arts, most making their pastas by hand. But who make's the city's best pasta? Earlier this month, with Italian food on the brain, we decided to visit some of our favorite pasta-obsessed restaurants in hopes of finding the city's best. Don't Edit Generally speaking, pastas at Portland restaurants tend to embody the restaurant's theme. Grassa comes from Lardo chef Rick Gencarelli, and if you thought he might back down on bold flavor when he moved from bread to noodles, think again. Ava Gene's loves vegetables, and their pastas reflect that, with fennel joining trenne pasta in a coat of luxurious pesto. Much of Renata's team worked in San Francisco, and chef Matt Sigler's pastas resemble those at some of that city's destination Italian restaurants, including the superlative Flour + Water, his old stomping grounds. Compared to Rome or Florence (not to mention San Francisco or New York), Portland doesn't have a well-defined pasta style. That leaves chefs free to experiment, making dough out of unusual grains or adding seasonal vegetables, hitting already rich dishes with extra umami, or burrowing their heads in cookbooks searching for the holy grail of authenticity. We've been eating at Italian restaurants in and around Portland for more than a decade, but for this project, we tried to leave preconceived notions at the door, visiting restaurants both expensive and budget-friendly, relying on our readers for tips. In the end, we ate nearly 60 pastas at 20 restaurants before tapping out. What we were looking for: Well-cooked noodles, neither brittle nor gummy. Sauces with nuance and balance, unless bold flavors are the restaurant's aim. Other elements existing in harmony, without complementing rather than distracting from the overall pasta. Don't Edit To qualify, a restaurant must regularly serve at least three pastas. That means menus with only one pasta -- Coquine comes to mind, and, often, Le Pigeon -- weren't considered, no matter how fantastic that pasta is. Ditto for Firehouse, the wood-fired Northeast Portland Italian restaurant, which typically only has one pasta on at a time. This search was focused intently on pasta, not other types of noodles. If you're craving something else, you might enjoy our most recent guides to Portland's best bowls of ramen and pho. Before we began, we brainstormed 10 restaurants that seemed like sure-fire contenders, including Ava Gene's (pictured above), Grassa and Renata. After cruising through those, we visited every restaurant recommended by readers via comments or email. Below, find our final list of 10 favorites places to eat pasta in Portland, plus all the information you'll need to visit and the go-to pasta at each restaurant, ranked for your convenience. Let the carbo-loading commence! Don't Edit Photos by Michael Russell | The Oregonian/OregonLive Honorable mentions: Before we jump into the top 10, here are the restaurants we tried for this roundup that for one reason or another, didn't make the cut, in alphabetical order: 3 Doors Down, Allora, Burrasca, Gabagool, Gallo Nero, Gino's (pictured), Grassa, Mucca, Nonna, Piazza Italia. Don't Edit No. 10: GUMBA Prettiest pasta Bar Mingo alum Jesse Martinez and friend Robin Brassaw had to relocate a few blocks down Northeast Alberta Street since we named Gumba our 2017 food cart of the year , but the patio lights are still twinkling, the chalkboard menu still reveals some intriguing specials and their cart-made pastas and addictive "pizza fritta" are as good as ever. Pastas here tend to be brightly colored, scattered with edible flowers, generously sauced and cooked al dente, on the money. (It was a good year for cart pasta: Le Pantry, the French-inspired cart at Southeast 28th Avenue and Ankeny Street, makes a killer fresh and seasonal tagliatelle.) Don't Edit Don't Edit Order: Gumba often serves ribbons of pappardelle hiding an umami-rich sugo and occasionally rolls out a squid-ink pasta or some angel hair in sage and brown butter as a special. But you'll want to start with the spaghetti ($12), fat coils of pasta slicked with egg, carbonara-style, or tossed with chile flakes, seeds or blobs of cart-made burrata cheese. Don't Edit Details: Northeast Alberta Street and 23rd Avenue 503-975-5951 Facebook: Gumbacart Don't Edit No. 9: A CENA Best $45 ravioli The name is what an Italian mother might cry out to summon her dawdling children: "Ah-Chayna," or "To dinner!" Longtime Portlanders might remember this single-story brick building as the former Assaggio, a much simpler affair. Now backed by a surprisingly lofty condo, the pan-regional Italian restaurant has aspirations far higher than the surrounding Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood might suggest, and might be best-known today for serving Portland's most expensive pasta -- a big bowl of lobster agnolotti for $45. Don't Edit Order: C'mon. Unless you have a shellfish allergy, you're not going to not order lobster agnolotti. Just look at it. Plump dumplings stuffed with sweet corn and mascarpone, tossed in butter and topped with chunks of butter-poached Maine lobster. You don't actually have to drop a Grant to try this pasta -- like Luce further down this list, A Cena offers half portions of all their pastas for a little more than half price, including this bowl for $26. Don't Edit Details: 7742 S.E. 13th Ave. 503-206-3291 acenapdx.com Don't Edit Don't Edit 8: JUSTA PASTA Best value This Northwest Portland staple with its tall chalkboard menu and small rack of wines available to stay or go is somehow able to sell its housemade spaghetti, spinach fettuccine and whole-wheat tagliatelle with marinara, pesto or Alfredo sauces for as low as $7 or $8. On our visit, we dabbled with a pair of interesting specials. But if you're hunting for good Italian noodles on a budget, sticking to the basics at Justa Pasta just might be the best pasta value in Portland. Don't Edit As noted above, we ordered a pair of specials on our visit, including this black pepper linguine with cherry tomatoes and clams ($20). It was good, but it also convinced me that the key to Justa Pasta is to grab those unreasonably inexpensive bowls of spaghetti marinara ($7), spinach fettuccine alfredo ($8) or whole wheat tagliatelle in pesto ($10). Don't Edit Details: 1326 N.W. 19th Ave. 503-243-2249 justapasta.com Don't Edit 7: BAR MINGO Best neighborhood pasta spot Bar Mingo started life as a lounge designed to catch overflow customers from Mingo, the longtime Italian favorite next door. It's evolved into one of our favorite Northwest Portland restaurants, a fine place to grab a glass of wine or house-made pasta from chef Jerry Huisinga, who cut his teeth at the legendary Genoa. The restaurant's Wednesday risotto nights are worth seeking out. Don't Edit Order: On our visit, we ordered some of my favorite pastas, including a cacio e pepe ($19) and a vongole well-stocked with Manila clams (pictured, $20). Bar Mingo also makes a triumphant Bolognese-style lasagna ($20), which would be as a good a place to start as any. Don't Edit Don't Edit Details: 811 N.W. 21st Ave. 503-445-4646 barmingo.com Don't Edit 6: LUCE Best deal Food at this second restaurant from the owners of Navarre aims to be simple straightforward and good, from the golden, bell-shaped arancini to the rosemary-scented hangar steak. As we learned on a pair of recent visits, that maxim holds true for the pasta, which you can often see drying on racks in the kitchen. And with half portions at true half prices, Luce might be the best deal on quality Italian noodles in town. Don't Edit Order: These salt cod ravioli ($12/$24), like the poor man's cousin to the pair of lobster agnolottis we ate at Omerta and a Cena. A bit more rustic and with an earthier kick than the lobster, these stuffed ravioli came in a gentle, buttery sauce with mellow flecks of dill. Don't Edit Details: 2140 E. Burnside St. 503-236-7195 luceportland.com Don't Edit No. 5: NOSTRANA Best sauces Sometimes Nostrana is just the ideal place for pasta. Simple noodles and dumplings -- really, you could make most of the sauces at home -- but made with patience, care and good ingredients. When the execution is perfect, all you care about is that buttery tomato-onion sauce, the good olive oil, the tender green and yellow fettuccine known as paglia e fieno, or straw and hay. Don't Edit Don't Edit Order: On our visit, the best pasta was that paglia e fieno, with its green spinach fettuccine and golden egg fettuccine topped with bay shrimp in a pool of garlic cream sauce ($18). But keep your eyes open for noodles tossed in the late cookbook author Marcella Hazan's tomato-onion-butter sauce (pictured, with meatballs), which, with its its prefect balance and simplicity, can be a revelation. Don't Edit Details: 1401 S.E. Morrison St. 503-234-2427 nostrana.com Don't Edit No. 4: ACCANTO Simply satisfying This stylish, neighborhood-friendly Italian restaurant started as a spin-off to prix-fixe destination Genoa, but went on to outlive its predecessor. And now it's one of the city's best places to eat pasta, largely due to the work of chef Chris Frazier (Del Posto, New York; Locanda, San Francisco), whose dishes are approachable without sacrificing finesse. Don't Edit Order: Get two, the lumache shells with sweet corn, juicy crumbles of mild lamb sausage and house ricotta that acts like a sauce ($17) and the bucatini all'amatriciana ($16) looped around seared guanciale in a tangy tomato sauce. Don't Edit Details: 2838 S.E. Belmont St. 503-235-4900 accantopdx.com Don't Edit Don't Edit No. 3: OMERTA Best presentation, best cacio e pepe Omerta is a fine Italian restaurant hidden inside downtown Portland's recently renovated and renamed Dossier Hotel. Almost everything here is over the top, from the stiff, yard-wide menus to the towering floral arrangement to the service, which includes antipasti delivered just after you sit down and dishes -- including a lovely cacio e pepe -- prepared tableside by General Manager Adam Smith, formerly of Eleven Madison Park in New York. Chef Mark Barrett comes to Portland from New York, where he worked under Mario Batali and, eventually, followed in the celebrity chef's Crocsteps on a cooking tour of Italy. Don't Edit Order: The lobster ravioli ($32) were silky and wonderful, but it's hard to beat the fun of a classic Roman-style cacio e pepe ($22) tossed with black pepper and sharp cheese right at the table. Don't Edit Details: 614 S.W. Park Ave. 503-294-9700 omertaportland.com Don't Edit No. 2: AVA GENE'S Best noodles, best amatriciana Chef, owner and cookbook author Joshua McFadden's vegetable-obsessed, Roman-inspired restaurant has a ringer in JoMarie Pitino, a dough whisperer whose buckwheat chitarra or orecchiette made with red spring wheat from Camas Country Mills go well beyond 00 flour. Pitino, who teaches occasional hands-on classes at Sweedeedee, has a pasta-focused Instagram account worth following. Don't Edit At each stop, I've tried to cast a wide net, ordering pastas extruded or rolled, both noodles and dumplings and sauces built around tomato, butter or cream. But there's one pasta I've ordered every time it's on the menu, and that's the amatriciana, the tomato-based sauce typically made with guanciale (pork jowl) and pecorino (sheep's cheese). I'm confident that Ava Gene's version ($22), with its good spaghetti, spicy (but not overpowering) sauce and unusually shaped slips of tender guanciale is the city's best. Don't Edit Don't Edit Details: 3377 S.E. Division St. 971-229-0571 avagenes.com Don't Edit No. 1: RENATA Best overall, best stuffed pasta Going into this survey, Renata would have been the favorite to take home this crown. Heck, I even wrote as much in our most recent review. Chef Matt Sigler comes to Renata from Flour + Water, the acclaimed San Francisco restaurant, and his pastas hit many of the same notes -- flawlessly crafted noodles and dumplings with seasonal ingredients hidden under a shower of high quality cheese. They were our favorite going in, and they didn't disappoint. Don't Edit Under Sigler, Renata's pasta menu changes frequently, often week-to-week. If there's a signature dish, it's probably the scarpinocc, a wing-nut-shaped dumpling currently topped elegantly braised radicchio and a balsamic reduction ($22). With apologies to Omerta's lobster ravioli, this is regularly Portland's best stuffed pasta. Don't Edit Details: 626 S.E. Main St. 503-954-2708 renatapdx.com Don't Edit Read more This list is the result of a city-wide search that included nearly 60 pastas from 20 restaurants. For more, don't miss out 2017 restaurant guide, which includes our picks for Portland's 40 best restaurants and the city's top 10 newcomers. Don't Edit Don't Edit Michael Russell | The Oregonian/OregonLive Still hungry? Here are the 27 best places to eat in Portland after 10 p.m. Feast Portland might be over, but that hasn't stopped the parade of bold-named chefs from rolling through town. Over the next few months, a half dozen chefs with Michelin stars and James Beard awards to spare will jump into local kitchens to cook special dinners with some of the city's own celebrity chefs. Don't Edit The fun starts Monday, when Coquine (6839 S.E. Belmont St.) hosts chef Daniel Patterson, owner of the two-Michelin-starred San Francisco restaurant Coi and "revolutionary fast-food" chain Loco'L. In an interview last week, Patterson said the meal could include black cod with matsutakes and lamb with chicories. Don't Edit Details: Tickets for the collaborative dinner between Katy Millard and Daniel Patterson are $200 and include food, drinks, gratuity and a copy of Patterson's new book, "The Art of Flavor." Call Coquine at 503-384-2483 for more information. Don't Edit Next up, Danny Bowien and Angela Dimayuga of Mission Chinese Food will kick off Naomi Pomeroy's 10 for 10 Dinner Series on Oct. 23 at Beast, 5425 N.E. 30th Ave. The event is the first of 10 dinners celebrating Beast's 10th anniversary, a series that will run through August of next year and feature some of America's best-known chefs, including Ignacio Mattos (a late scratch from this year's Feast) of New York's Estela on Jan. 30, April Bloomfield of New York's The Spotted Pig and Dominique Crenn of San Francisco's Atelier Crenn on July 9. Don't Edit Details: Tickets for each dinner cost $275 per person and include food, drinks and gratuity. More information at beastpdx.com. Don't Edit Don't Edit So far, Earl Ninsom's "Chefs Who Inspire" series has focused on local lights, starting with chef Gabriel Rucker in September, then Greg and Gabi Denton on Oct. 25 at Langbaan, 6 S.E. 28th Ave. But expect this series, which runs approximately monthly, to tap chefs from across America and beyond in 2018. Don't Edit Details: Tickets for each roughly six-course meal cost $180 including wine but not gratuity, with 15 percent of the proceeds donated to a charity chosen by the collaborating chef. Watch Langbaan's Instagram for announcements. Don't Edit Last week, B.J. Smith's first Taco Tuesday featured margaritas, fried chicken tacos from former Imperial chef Doug Adams and a line to the door at Smokehouse Tavern, 1401 S.E. Morrison St. #117. On Tuesday, November 14, "Top Chef" contestant Katsuji Tanabe will jump in the kitchen to make tacos, and while it hasn't been locked down yet, a major name has been floated for an upcoming Taco Tuesday event. Non-collaborative Taco Tuesdays continue this week with Smith's buffalo shrimp, smoked brisket and beer-battered fish tacos. Don't Edit Details: Taco Tuesdays are a la carte, with tacos in the $3 range, plus chips, salsa, queso and guac from $4-$6. Don't Edit In other Portland food news, Northeast torta shop Guero, 200 N.E. 28th Ave., is throwing a party Monday night to raise money for relief from last month's devastating earthquake in central Mexico, which killed nearly 400 people. Guero will be joined by chefs from Chalino, Malka, Ava Gene's and Churros Locos. for a night of mezcal drinking, party food, music and more, with proceeds going to UNICEF Mexico. Don't Edit Don't Edit Details: Tickets cost $45 and are good for entry, dinner, one drink and dessert, plus music from Rev Shines and select pours from Wahaka Mezcal and Pueblo Viejo Tequila. 100 percent of every additional craft Mexican spirit purchase goes to the donation. Don't Edit On Thursday, Oct. 19, chef Sarah Pliner will host her first nose-to-tail bluefin tuna dinner at Aviary, 1733 N.E. Alberta St.. Chef Sarah Pliner is using all parts of the tuna, including the head and tail, for dishes paired with wines and farm produce from Oregon's Soter Vineyards. Don't Edit Details: Tickets cost $125 and include a four-course dinner and wine pairings but not gratuity. For more information, call 503-287-2400. Don't Edit Sommelier Stacey Gibson and husband Joey will hold their next Parallel Food & Drink pop-up with a five course meal and pairings on Sunday, Oct. 22, at Chalino, 25 N. Fremont St. Don't Edit Tickets cost $85 and include food, wine and gratuity. For more information, visit parallelpdx.com. Don't Edit Don't Edit Farm Spirit chef Aaron Adams will cook a vegan Cuban meal at 5 p.m. on Oct. 22 at Ironside Training, 1302 S.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., with proceeds going to Powerfit Kids, a local charity that seeks to lower the recidivism rate in prison by providing athletic training and mental fitness programs to youth inside and recently out of prison. Don't Edit Details: Tickets are on a sliding scale from $10 to $20. Don't Edit Vancouver's annual dining month, Dine the Couve, continues through the end of the month with participating restaurants offering three-course meals for $23 and breweries pouring $3 pints. Some relative newcomers to the dining scene include Rally Pizza, Smokehouse Provisions and Little Conejo, a Mexican restaurant and mezcal bar from Phantom Rabbit farmer and former Nodoguro sous chef Mark Wooten. Don't Edit Details: Visit visitvancouverusa.com/dinethecouve for more information. Don't Edit Jakes Famous Crawfish, 401 S.W. 12th Ave., will toast its 125th year with a number of specials, including four-course dinners for two for $125, two-course early-bird dinners for $25 and a two-course lunch for $12.50. Don't Edit Don't Edit Details: For more information, visit Jake's website. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Brian Fies sat down to a piece of drawing paper one day last week. He carefully penned at the top of the page, ON MONDAY, MY HOUSE DISAPPEARED. Coping with loss is a deeply personal thing, and anyone who experiences tragedy must find his or her own way. A route to some kind of normalcy. To someplace safe. Fies (he pronounces his name feez) is a graphic novelist. Ive been a cartoonist all my life, he said in a telephone interview. So he did what came naturally when the home he shared with his wife Karen, in the Santa Rosa community of Larkfield, went up in flames. He started drawing. The 18-page comic he created, A Fire Story, is published, for now, as a post on his blog, http://brianfies.blogspot.com. It describes the couples evacuation, detailing decisions they made about what to take and where to go. It takes an ominous turn when he returns alone, bypassing police roadblocks on foot, to see how their house has fared. Now Playing: Wine Country Fires Video: San Francisco Chronicle The sun was a dim orange disk in a salmon-gray curtain of smoke, he writes. I inhaled my neighbors lives. Turning a corner, he lets out an expletive at what he sees. I picked my way down the middle of the street to avoid smouldering debris collapsed into gutters, alone on a sterile plain. Black toothpick trees, madly tilting chimneys, and the twisted steel frames of garage doors. Hell. Fies generally likes to work with good materials 2-ply Bristol board with brushes dipped in India ink, he said in an email. A Fire Story was done under duress, much faster and rougher than I normally would. I drew it with Sharpie markers and colored highlighters on terrible pulp paper because they were the only art supplies I could find at Target, the only open store within 20 miles of home. Thats part of the point: how the comic was made reflects the circumstances it was made in. This is not the first time that Fies has dealt with difficult subject matter in his work. Some years ago, he experienced what he calls his breakthrough when his mother became ill. He began to work on a comic describing her struggle and his responses. Moms Cancer started as a webcomic drawn between 2003 and 2005, winning the industrys respected Eisner Award. It was published as a hardcover book by Harry N. Abrams in 2006, which was quickly followed by translations in German, French and Italian. When he started on the book, Karen had said, Itll be good therapy for you. Fies allows that he writes, first, for himself. But it is also a matter of bearing witness. He once worked for a small newspaper as a reporter and he still writes freelance science pieces; he thinks of himself now as a graphic journalist. Comics are the best way for me to tell these kinds of stories its like a direct tap into the readers brain. Besides, he said, every writer wants to be read. Fies started the first part of A Fire Story last Wednesday. By Friday, 130,000 visitors had read it online; on Sunday, when Part Two went up, that number doubled. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Driving down Ashman Street in the autumn, its hard to miss Rich and Karen Marshalls house. For the past four years, skeletons have come out from attic closets and into the front yard in a series of creative poses. Its fun. You can even watch peoples faces when you stand there and youll catch them looking. Theyll be scowling and then theyll look at them and then they start smiling, Rich said. Thats one of the perks. It makes it worthwhile. Every year, Rich poses the skeletons in creative ways to tell a story. This fall, they can be seen carrying a chest full of treasure, fleeing from a skeletal dragon perched on the roof. A couple figures are even artfully suspended mid-leap off of the front porch to add a touch of drama. It takes several trips in the car, or better yet, on foot to really take in and appreciate the details, including a giant spider repelling from a low-hanging tree, daggers in the hands of a retreating comrade and old, yellowing bones around the feet of the dragon. And with any good story, the scene changes slightly with every telling. Rich and Karen traditionally decorate the yard right after Labor Day when stores begin to stock items for Halloween. During the two months leading up to All Hallows Eve, Rich might tweak certain features just to keep things interesting. You might wake up one morning and theyll all be up in the corner of the yard, hopping over the wall, he suggested. Besides the Marshalls imaginations, the only limit is the stone wall encircling the property. Rich is careful not to place decorations too close to the wall, fearing it might be too tempting for people to steal them. The first incident of theft occurred only last year when someone took one of the gargoyles that stood sentinel on either side of the driveway. If Rich does decide to put them up again this year, it will only be for Halloween night. Despite the 12 long hours of set up and the occasional naysayer, the Marshalls enjoy preparing the house for the holidays and seeing how it brightens peoples day. Several weeks before Halloween, a group of teenagers passed by their house and shouted out their appreciation for the decor. Theyre one of the most jaded group of people, Rich said. To get a teenager to say Hey, I like that. Thats cool! Thats impossible. You cant get them to say anything. As the weeks progress, more features may be added, including a steampunk-style carousel by the driveway and large pumpkins mounted on spikes along the fence line. No matter what the decorations, the Marshalls are keen to keep everything family friendly. As a result, their 6-year-old son, Huck, feels right at home playing with his dad in the front yard. Theres just too much gore in real life that I dont need to do it here, too, Rich explained. While the outside is mainly Richs domain, Karen takes charge of decorating the houses interior. According to her, 90 percent of the 1914 farm houses rooms have some kind of embellishment collected from renaissance fairs, foreign travels and local shops that have closed or have after-holiday sales. Although Halloween is one of the biggest days the Marshalls celebrate, they also decorate for St. Patricks Day, Mardi Gras, Easter and Christmas. I like to celebrate life, Karen stated. Karen got into decorating about 15 years ago after she learned that she had become a victim of identity theft. She made a choice to live in the moment and now focuses on creating memories with her family. I realized then, if something makes you happy, just do it. I surround myself with things that make me happy because you never know whats going to happen. It takes Karen a good day when their two Leonbergers are with the groomer, Hucks at school and Rich leaves for work early to completely set up. She strategically takes the decorations down from the crawl space, sets up a staging area in a spare bedroom and places items in their respective places, occasionally tweaking and reorganizing as the weeks go by. Its a lot, but when its something youre passionate about, it comes together. It doesnt take much. Even Huck has gotten into decorating. Instead of pumpkins and skeletons, however, his forte is Christmas. When he would have a bad day in preschool or kindergarten, a trip to Bronners in Frankenmuth would make things better. Huck doesnt necessarily buy anything, but loves to be surrounded by everything Christmas. Hes a Christmas freak, Karen explained. My sons favorite place on this planet is Bronners. Its more important than Disney. With a young boy, two large dogs and five rescue cats in the house, there is always the possibility of damaging decorations. Most of the ornaments are broken in one way or another, but Karen appreciates the stories behind the breaks. What some people consider to be damaged, to me it makes it more unique or more special. Karen admires the Japanese culture, where when a bowl gets broken, it is repaired with gold in the cracks, thereby making it more beautiful. One of my witches got broke and my husband glued it. Actually, now I like it better because the glue turned out to be white instead of clear. Now it looks like she has this long belt on, but it works for me. The Marshalls undoubtedly have fun with their decorations, but once the last trick-or-treater leaves so do the trappings. Karen and Rich work fast to remove the lawn ornaments, leaving very little behind. The next morning its as if nothing happened. Its sensory overload while its up and then sensory depravation the day after its taken down, Rich said. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Sally Eaves Lewis, 90, independent businesswoman, formidable fisher and hunter, and mother of two, spent much of her life at her home on Soda Canyon Road in Napa. She was a tough gal, said her daughter, Windermere Tirados, who added in the same breath, She was a lovely person. Born Sally Eaves on Sept. 24, 1927, Mrs. Lewis childhood was centered around Atlas Peak. Her great-grandfather, John Putnam Jackson, a union colonel during the Civil War, built the Napa Soda Springs resort on Soda Canyon Road in 1872. In 1920, Mrs. Lewis grandparents built a house just a short walk from the resort. As a child, Mrs. Lewis roamed both properties with her pet horse, Tony, and her dog, Pooch. As an adult, she made frequent weekend trips up to the house, which survived a massive wildfire on Atlas Peak in 1981. On Oct. 8, however, the fires roaring across the region moved too fast. Mrs. Lewis was killed, along with her caregiver, Teresa Santos. Now Playing: Wine Country Fires Video: San Francisco Chronicle Mrs. Lewis was an avid outdoorswoman. She taught her two daughters, Windermere and Dixie, whom she raised after her husband died, to hunt and fish. She would take them duck hunting in Colusa and fishing in the Sierra and Lake Tahoe. Mom always caught the biggest fish, said Tirados. She also traveled abroad Europe, Australia, New Zealand but more frequently at home. Mrs. Lewis never remarried and, when her daughters were young, she would take them for long summer road trips in her yellow Galaxie 500 convertible, heading to camping sites all over the United States. After her husband died in 1958, Mrs. Lewis took over her husbands school bus company, becoming one of two female licensed auto dealers in the state. The family lived in the Berkeley hills, making frequent weekend and summer trips to the family home in Napa. Wildfires were always a known risk. The resort her great-grandfather built had long been abandoned when, in the 1960s, a wildfire swept through and finished it off, and in 1981 a fire almost consumed the familys Napa house. In response, she outfitted the building with sprinklers on the roof and hoses connected to a reservoir. After the Oakland hills fire of 1991 destroyed Mrs. Lewis Berkeley home, she made Napa her primary residence. It was like walking back into the 1920s, with not much remodeling, Tirados said of her mothers house. The home was where friends and families often gathered. The Tiradoses were married on the patio, which on clear days had a view of downtown San Francisco. It was a special place, Tirados said. Santos began full-time care of Mrs. Lewis at the house a year ago. Tirados and her husband, Marlon, heard about the fire on Atlas Peak at 10:30 p.m. Sunday. At that point, the Napa County Sheriffs Department didnt realize that the fire had spread to Soda Canyon Road. Nevertheless, the couple and their adult sons took off for Mrs. Lewis house. They barreled past fire trucks, drove up a driveway surrounded by flames, and smashed their car through the front gate, trying to get to the house. But it was already engulfed in flames. There was a 20-foot fire tornado column spinning around the patio, Windermere Tirados said. The couple, with their sons in a separate car behind them, barely escaped the fire. Tirados described her mother as a down- to-earth person who loved everybody. Everybody called her Mom, she said. She took everybody under her wing. In addition to Tirados, who resides in Vacaville, Mrs. Lewis is survived by daughter Dixie Lewis of Cazadero; two grandsons, Warner and Errol Tirados; and a brother, Jackson Eaves. Jonathan Kauffman is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jkauffman@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jonkauffman Two community banks, Wolverine Bancorp, Inc. and Horizon Bancorp, released a joint announcement today stating they have signed an agreement for Horizon to acquire Wolverine and its wholly owned subsidiary, Wolverine Bank. This partnership with Horizon Bank will provide us new opportunities to increase the depth of products and services we can offer to our customers, while providing significant value to our shareholders, said David H. Dunn, Wolverine president and CEO. Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders of Wolverine will receive 1.0152 shares of Horizon common stock and $14 in cash for each share of Wolverine common stock. Based upon the June 13, 2017 Horizon closing price of $27.50 per share would result in an implied price of $41.92 per share of Wolverine common stock. Horizon shares our commitment to community banking and understands the value we provide to the communities we serve, Dunn added in a media release. We will keep our branches open and staffed by familiar, local professionals dedicated to our being a trusted financial partner in our communities. As of March 31, Wolverine had total assets of approximately $379.3 million and total equity of $62.5 million, translating to an equity to asset ratio of 16.48 percent. Horizon is a community bank holding company, headquartered in Michigan City, Indiana, with total assets of $3.2 billion as of March 31. The bank has 59 offices throughout northern and central Indiana, southwest and central Michigan, and central Ohio. This merger allows Horizon to extend our reach into Michigan while remaining true to our values as we partner with this like-minded institution, said Craig M. Dwight, Horizon chairman and CEO. Wolverine Banks foundation is to contribute to the success of their customers by offering creative financial solutions based upon sound financial advice while being mindful of the communities they serve. The two companies expect to implement a systems integration and signage change by the weekend of Nov. 11. At that time, customer accounts will automatically change to Horizon accounts. Customer checks, direct deposits, payments and account numbers will remain unchanged in order to make this transition as smooth as possible. The companies will form a local advisory board for the Great Lakes Bay Region. Also, Midland resident Eric P. Blackhurst has been appointed to Horizons Board of Directors. For more information about Horizon, visit: www.horizonbank.com Information about the merger and Wolverine may be found at: www.wolverinebank.com NORMAL A low-price clothing retailer could be coming to the former Dick's Sporting Goods store in Normal. Ross Dress for Less, an outlet store with locations throughout Illinois, including Champaign and Peoria, is named as the tenant coming to that space in a document provided by the town of Normal. The document is a schedule of project expenses for owner Phillips Edison and Company to improve two connected shopping centers that include Fresh Market and Petco. It lists Ross Dress for Less as a tenant to receive $1 million in improvements. That's the same amount Phillips Edison officials said the company will spend on the former Dick's space, and there's currently no Ross Dress for Less there or anywhere else in Bloomington-Normal. Officials avoided naming the retailer while discussing it Monday. Phillips Edison declined Tuesday to confirm or deny that it's Ross Dress for Less, and the retailer did not respond to a request for comment. The chain's website, rossstores.com, refers to Ross Dress for Less as "the nations largest off-price retail chain." "We work directly with manufacturers to negotiate the best deals. ... We love new buys we keep it simple so we can get the great buys into our stores quickly, which means almost every day," according to the site. "We believe in 'no frills' no window displays, mannequins, fancy fixtures or decorations in our stores, so we can pass more savings on to our customers." The eventual tenant is set to open next fall or the following spring, said Scott Adair, vice president of community partnerships for Phillips Edison, Tuesday. "This, in part, will depend on how quickly the permitting and plan review process can be concluded," he said. The Normal City Council approved Monday night an $800,000 sales tax rebate for Phillips Edison, which plans to spend a total of $4 million on improvements. That deal is expected to bring at least three new businesses to the center. Two of those will be where Office Depot and Shoe Carnival are now; those businesses will stay open but downsize their spaces. "We are actively engaged in discussions with numerous national credit retailers for the site. We have a multitude of relationships with retailers and are actively pursuing all opportunities," Adair said of what type of businesses will use those spaces. "(When they will open) is yet to be determined." The company will receive 0.5 percent of sales from the new retailers through the sales tax for 10 years, estimated at $800,000; the town is expected to receive $4.6 million in new sales tax revenue from the deal. The company also plans to install two "pad sites," smaller retail spaces in the center's parking lots. "We are actively marketing two pad sites. No firm proposals yet. But, as indicated above, we are reaching out to our retail contacts about these opportunities," said Adair. "If anyone in the community is interested in one of the pad sites, they may contact Greg Clough, vice president of redevelopment." Hypocrisy, one of the most damnable sins, has been rendered obsolete. When everybody's a skunk, nobody smells the stench. Or, more to the point, when everyone's slurping from the same trough, who's a pig? Today, hypocrisy is the smirk on Harvey Weinstein's face as he pursues therapy and asks forgiveness for his sexual transgressions. Well, I suppose one could say, at least he's not a hypocrite! Indeed, he isn't. Weinstein openly admits to bad behavior toward women, though he denies ever having had nonconsensual sex. I needn't bore you with the banality of his alleged gross exhibitionism and other impositions. Weinstein, whose whiskered jowls and corpulent corpus are perfectly cast for the villainous character he plays in life, is but the latest in a lineup of high-profile (alleged) predators, including Bill Cosby, Roger Ailes, Bill O'Reilly and, long before, Bill Clinton. It bears mentioning that most of these men have never been formally charged or tried for sexual crimes in a court of law but recently been convicted in a trial by Twitter where the presumption of guilt overrides any considerations of due process. This isn't to defend any of them, but shouldn't we save a little of our outrage for these truncated expressions of "justice"? Exceptions to the extra-legal rule are Clinton, who was impeached by the House of Representatives (and acquitted in the Senate) for perjury and obstruction of justice related to lying about sex with an intern; and Cosby, who had his day in court on a sexual assault charge that resulted in a deadlocked jury. The 80-year-old comedian faces a new trial next April. Ailes, of course, left the company he created two weeks after former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson sued him for sexual harassment. They reached a settlement amount of $20 million, and he died soon thereafter. Justice doesn't get any plainer than that. O'Reilly left the same company after revelations that he had settled with five women who accused him of sexual harassment, though the dethroned king of cable news has said the claims had no merit. Even so, one needn't strain to recognize hypocrisy lurking in the corridors of the network that promoted family values while its boss and its highest earner were (allegedly) demanding sexual favors on the side. Settlements don't necessarily confirm guilt, but numbers of women and dollars might. Both Hollywood and the broadcast world are especially tough on women. Fox's blend of sex(y) and news should have been scandalous (and was to many serious journalists), but Ailes knew his audience of mostly white, middle-aged men and sold them what they apparently wanted ample leg and hint of bosom topped off with bee-stung lips and baby-doll eyes. No matter how many advanced degrees the Fox women have, Ailes set the stage for female objectification and created a prime-time bonanza that relied upon implicit and complicit exploitation. As long as everyone was living large, nobody complained. Moreover, "everyone" sorta knew about these men, at least by reputation and rumor. Not everyone, obviously. Greta Van Susteren, who left Fox soon after Ailes, told me again last Thursday that she never had any idea what was going on. But many did, apparently, and they looked away, including some of the alleged victims, who kept silent for fear of retribution or, perhaps, because they were ultimately willing to suffer humiliation in exchange for advancement. This seems an obvious, if painful, truth. If you want to move up, as Weinstein allegedly put it to his targets, "this is the way it works." If women didn't want to play nasty with the boss, who could conjure dreams or nightmares with a phone call, they were finished. To say that these women, some barely in their 20s at the time, should have just-said-no and walked out is to misunderstand the power dynamic between a young, inexperienced woman and a powerful, physically imposing boss. It is also to wish for a different world, which, as it turns out, is coming right along. The alleged predators in each of these cases belong to a fading generation and the James Bondian, '60s free-love, Playboy era. Soon enough, they, too, will be joining Hugh Hefner and Ailes. And the future's power brokers will be at least equally women, who, in the aftermath of these buffoonish bullies, won't hesitate to speak up and speak out, setting an example for others not yet so brave. The panty party is over. Now, about Twitter and the future of justice. BPM Paper Achieves Wisconsin Green Professional for Third Consecutive Year The Green Masters Program recognizes and assesses Wisconsin businesses on their sustainability performance in a variety of sustainability categories. Oct. 17, 2017 Wisconsin paper producer BPM Inc. has received recognition as a Green Professional in the Wisconsin Green Masters Program. This is the third year in a row BPM has received the award, which recognizes and assesses Wisconsin businesses on their sustainability performance in a variety of sustainability categories. Participation in the Green Masters Program validates BPM's continued commitment to the environment, sustainability and social responsibility, said Jim Koronkiewicz, BPM General Manager. It's a hands-on tool that BPM can use annually to review areas of sustainable potential. With an increased score, the BPM team has worked hard for this impressive accomplishment. The program is grounded in an in-depth survey where points are rewarded for a variety of actions. These actions are grouped into areas that include: Energy, Climate, Workforce, Governance, and Community and Educational Outreach. BPM has proven their dedication and commitment to sustainability through advancing in the program. "BPM is among a small group of companies that receives a higher score every year in the Green Masters Program, said Tom Eggert, Executive Director, Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council. They are obviously dedicated to continuous improvement and are one of the top performing paper companies every year." Located in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, BPM manufactures machine glazed (MG) converting paper grades for the flexible packaging, food, and confectionery industries, and in addition, offers in-house toll printing and waxing under one roof. The specialty paper mill also manufactures uncoated fine paper grades made from 100% post consumer waste recycled paper, EnvirographicTM 100. To learn more, please visit: www.bpmpaper.com . SOURCE: BPM Inc. West Linn Paper Company Ceasing Operations and Winding up Business After 128 years of papermaking history, West Linn Paper Company will begin winding down it operations immediately. The mill produces coated freesheet web, inkjet and specialty packaging paper. Oct. 17, 2017 - West Linn Paper Company in Oregon yesterday announced that it is ceasing operations and will commence a winding up of its business supervised by its second lien lender. We are deeply disappointed to end the mill's 128 year history, the last twenty of which resulted from a major restructuring and restart when our current ownership took control of West Linn Paper Company, said Brian Konen, Chief Operating Officer for West Linn Paper Company. The commitment and support that we received from our employees, our lenders and our owners as we sought to adapt to structural changes in our markets has been remarkable. However, several unforeseeable events have led to a significant reduction in available pulp, making continued operations impossible. As a result we will wind up our operations as quickly and efficiently as possible, beginning immediately, Konen said. Company officials said that orders for stock product will continue to be accepted. Orders that have been produced but not yet shipped will be shipped. Manufacturing orders that have been accepted, but not yet produced, will be reviewed and customers will be contacted shortly with confirmations as to whether those orders will be produced. The company will not be accepting new manufacturing orders going forward. Editor's Note: The West Linn Paper Company as of end-2015 employed about 250 people. The mill has three paper machines and an overall capacity to produce 260,000 tons of coated freesheet paper. West Linn Paper Company is an independent manufacturer of C2S and C1S coated free sheet, inkjet, and specialty packaging web papers. To learn more please visit: www.westlinnpaper.com . SOURCE: West Linn Paper Company Even after her tragic passing, ultimate bad bitch Carrie Fisher is still schooling us all when it comes to taking the patriarchy down a damn peg. In a new interview with a Tucson radio station, 94.9 MixFM, re: the Harvey Weinstein's rampant abuse of young actresses, longtime friend and film industry veteran Heather Ross recalls her own sexual assault at the hands of a producer and just how Carrie Fisher came to her defense. Ross clarified she'd never met Harvey Weinstein, but was also invited to "business meeting" in 2000 with an Oscar-winning producer, only for him to force himself on her when she was in his car. Despite the fact the unidentified man pulled the car over and pinned her down against her seat, Ross managed to escape, and later confided in Fisher about the incident. Roughly two weeks later, Fisher told Ross she had visited the producer at his studio, knowing "he would probably be there." She brought him a Tiffany box wrapped with a white bow. "I asked her what was inside," Ross told the hosts, "and she said, 'It was a cow tongue from Jerry's Famous Deli in Westwood with a note that said, 'If you ever touch my darling Heather or any other woman again, the next delivery will be something of yours in a much smaller box!'" I mean, icons only. Ross also added she didn't think Hollywood protect her because her looks didn't adhere to the traditional standard of beauty the industry is accustomed to putting on screen. Thank you for everything, Carrie. [h/t Harper's Bazaar] Image via Getty Ah, it feels like yesterday that Trump apologized for Melania being unable to make a public appearance when she was standing right by his side. It was a very pure moment of absolute idiocy (possibly only overtaken by the President Trump's declaration that he had sat down with the president of the U.S. Virgin Islands--that is, himself), but now it seems he might have replaced Melania altogether. At least, that's the latest in weird, fun Internet conspiracies. Andrea Wagner Barton gets the credit for the solid tinfoil-hat detective work on this one, examining recent photos of Melania in a Facebook post that has gone viral. Preparing to board the Marine One for Beltsville, Maryland on Friday, Trump addressed the press with a demure "Melania" at his side dressed in a trench coat, oversized glasses and in what could be a very questionable wig. As pointed out by Barton's eagle eye, Melania has an impossibly perfect button nose, but in these recent pictures, the nose in question appears more bulbous. Let's review the evidence: Here is Melania's nose via Getty. Let's go in for a closer look: And now here's another shot of Melania's nose, for comparison. One more time now. Woah. Just, woah. Is it that farfetched that Trump would replace his wife who has famously spurned his spam-like hands/advances multiple times on public outings? Particularly when he forgets his wife in public? I mean: Especially when he walks with security guards with fake hands so they can hold their guns? ??? Not at all, friends, not at all. If you have seen the real Melania, or have evidence that the one in public is a fake one, you are welcome to send us tips. Thanks for joining us on this wild ride. Until next time, xoxo, you know you love me. Images via Getty Wear your heart--or at least your ideals--on your chest and fight LGBTQ oppression overseas at the same time. The latest source of dismaying rollbacks in LGBTQ rights comes from Brazil, where conversion therapy was given new legitimacy. Last month a federal judge overturned a decision from 1999 that banned psychologists from offering programs and treatments to "cure" homosexuality, allowing conversion therapy to be practiced again. The shirt references the hashtag #curagay, which trended after the ruling as Brazilians discussed and despaired of the decision. Dorfman collaborated with illustrator Paul Tuller (who has also designed a shirt protesting LGBTQ persecution in Chechnya) after hearing about the ruling. "This idea that you can 'cure' homosexuality is appalling and simply not true," he notes in a statement. "There is no Cura Gay (gay cure), there's just Gay. Or not. Or however you identify, and nobody should have say over something so personal and inherent. I hope this shirt resonates with people and we're able to raise a shit ton of money for the GGB to resist this ruling." All proceeds from the $28 tee go to Grupo Gay Bahia, Brazil's oldest organization defending LGBTQ rights, which has been fighting for the Brazilian queer community since 1980. Peep the slideshow below to some outspoken queer advocates standing up for Brazil--including PAPER faves like Adam Eli, Parker Kit Hill, Richie Shazam and Tommy himself--and then grab yourself a shirt. All photos by Jack Juliar A container train, which left western China at the end of September, arrived in the Latvian capital city Riga on Monday, local media reported. A container train, which left western China at the end of September, arrived in the Latvian capital city Riga on Monday, local media reported. The Urumqi-Altynkol-Riga-Rotterdam container train arrives in Riga, capital of Latvia, on Oct. 16, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua] The train delivering 41 containers with food supplements from China to Western Europe left the Chinese city of Urumqi, the capital city of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Sept. 29. This is the first container train arranged by Kazakhstan's railway company Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) on the Urumqi-Altynkol-Riga-Rotterdam route. From Riga, the cargo will be shipped to the Dutch port of Rotterdam by sea. Latvia can become a good choice for transport companies delivering cargos between Asia and Europe as the turnover of container cargos between Europe and Asia doubles each year, while the capacity of transport infrastructure remains the same, Edvins Berzins, CEO of Latvia's national rail company Latvijas Dzelzcels said, noting that the railway industry therefore must cooperate with ports and shipping companies to attract more such cargos. "The route via Brest, which currently is used by some 5,000 trains a year, has practically reached its capacity limit. Clients therefore have to look for alternative routes to deliver their cargos to their destinations in the same time and for the same price. And this is Latvia's chance," the head of the Latvian rail company said. "What we can offer is capacity and speed," he added. Commenting on the container train from Urumqi which was greeted at the Freeport of Riga on Monday, Berzins declined to say when the next such train might arrive in the Latvian capital, but indicated that work is under way to arrange the next train and launch regular container train traffic on the route. "This is hard work, affected by various circumstances, so I would rather not name the date for launching regular deliveries, but I am confident that at one point we will be able to announce the start of regular traffic," Berzins said. In the video below, from his teachings in Ladakh on August 1, 2017 the Dalai Lama states: I feel, that some of these lama institutions [have] some sort of influence of feudal system. That is out of date. It must end. So with some feudal influence, then eventually the lama institution creates lama politics [laughing]. So, that is very bad. Lama politics Lama individual disgrace, doesnt matter. But very bad impression about monastery or monk very bad. So we must pay more attention. You should not say, oh this is my guru, whatever the guru says I must follow that is totally wrong. The Buddha himself mentioned, my teachings, you must examine. Similarly, if one particular lama says something, you examine: whether this go well with the Buddhas teachings or the circumstances of society, then you must follow. If the lama says something, and you investigate, is not proper, then you should not follow the lamas teaching. Even the Dalai Lamas teaching: if you find some contradiction, then you should not follow: that is my teaching. He then quotes [my favorite Tibetan philosopher] Tsongkhapa. The audio is quiet and muffled as his translator gives the English, but my guess is that it follows the same reasoning as the above. Buddhism from India and then Tibet consistently emphasizes the importance of responsibility and understanding ones own intentions as the root of its ethical system. Watch here: From Lions Roar: In a talk last week, the Dalai Lama addressed recent allegations of misconduct in Buddhist communities. In July, famed Tibetan Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche was accused of longstanding abuse of many students. In response, Sogyal said he would be taking a step back from teaching. The Dalai Lama addressed Sogyal Rinpoche in his talk, saying Sogyal Rinpoche, my very good friend. Now he is disgraced. .. When misconduct occurs, the Dalai Lama advised, Buddhists should make the misconduct known. These people do not follow Buddhist advice, Buddhist teachings. Only thing you can do is make public through newspaper, through radio. Make public. Past documentation of Sogyals abuses can be found in 2011 in the UK newspaper, the Guardian here: The allegations raise a wider question: why are victims of sexual exploitation by charismatic religious leaders reluctant to denounce their abusers? In the Canadian documentary, Mimi highlights the Stockholm syndrome a term used to describe the paradoxical reactions of individuals who bond with their abusers. The person beating us, she says, is also the only one giving us affection and food and a roof over our heads. The author, Mary Finnegan writes there that: In my personal experience, there are two taboos in Buddhist organisations, both of which have merit and both of which can be used as manipulative tools. One of them is an injunction against gossip useful when trying to establish a calm mental state, but also useful to prevent the circulation of critical comment. The second is samaya the bond of loyalty that is one of the key tenets of Tibetan Buddhism. It supports the relationship between teacher and neophyte, but it can be deployed unscrupulously as a threat break your samaya and attract dire consequences to yourself and your loved ones. She concludes by saying that there is a cultural taboo against criticizing high lamas, one that even the Dalai Lama is bound by. Well, it seems that at last, with Sogyal, this is no longer the case. We can hope that others follow suit. As the Dalai Lama stated, if students publicize disgraced lamas publicly, the disgrace is the teachers alone. If students and followers become unreasonably defensive, rally behind feudal structures and rules, and lash out against victims and those who publicize wrongdoing, then the whole monastic institution suffers. Support independent coverage of Buddhism by joining a community of fellow learners/practitioners at Patreon. Like American Buddhist Perspectives on facebook. If anyone in the world knows both the depths of tragedy and the power of loving resilience, it is the Dalai Lama. The man lives in exile, having lost his nation and countless countrymen and women. His nonviolent response won him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. He has traveled the world speaking to others about universal human values of peace, harmony, and community. He has yet to issue a statement on the latest mass shooting in Las Vegas, which killed over 50 and wounded at least 400 people. Yet we can turn to his words in the wake of the tragedy in Paris 2 years ago: When asked about those attacks, the Dalai Lama suggested that violence today is a spillover of the violent 20th century. However: If we emphasize more on non-violence and harmony, we can herald a new beginning. Unless we make serious attempts to achieve peace, we will continue to see a replay of the mayhem humanity experienced in the 20th century. The Dalai Lama re-emphasized the shortsightedness of terrorist acts and clarified his earlier statement about prayer: We cannot solve this problem only through prayers. I am a Buddhist and I believe in praying. But humans have created this problem, and now we are asking God to solve it. It is illogical. God would say, solve it yourself because you created it in the first place. We need a systematic approach to foster humanistic values, of oneness and harmony. If we start doing it now, there is hope that this century will be different from the previous one. It is in everybodys interest. So let us work for peace within our families and society, and not expect help from God, Buddha or the governments. This message of personal responsibility, inner work, and community-focus has been offered by the Dalai Lama and other Buddhist teachers for centuries. And it is worth restating his words in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, which have proved prophetic: Terrorism cannot be overcome by the use of force because it does not address the complex underlying problems. In fact the use of force may not only fail to solve the problems, it may exacerbate them and frequently leaves destruction and suffering in its wake. Human conflicts should be resolved with compassion. The key is non-violence. Support independent writing on Buddhism here by joining a community of fellow learners/practitioners at Patreon. Read more: Another passage from a manuscript in progress: What kind of a book did Joseph Smith produce? Bernard DeVoto, a literary critic from the mid-twentieth century, denounced it as a yeasty fermentation, formless, aimless, and inconceivably absurd.[1] But this is precisely what the Book of Mormon is not.[2] Hugh Nibley, almost certainly to be considered the leading modern student of the Book of Mormon, is much more accurate when he remarks that, If any modern man, however great his genius, composed the Book of Mormon, it must of necessity swarm with the uncouth, monstrous, impossible, contradictory, and absurd. But it does not.[3] Perhaps, like an outspoken later critic of the book, Bernard DeVoto had never actually read it.[4] As the Catholic sociologist Thomas F. ODea once remarked, the Book of Mormon has not been universally considered by its critics as one of those books that must be read in order to have an opinion of it.[5] Cultural historian Terryl Givens cites an interesting article from the nineteenth century Baptist publication, the Religious Herald: The April 9 issue for 1840 has an editorial under the heading The Mormons: A correspondent requests information as to the peculiar tenets of this modern sect. We have never seen a copy of the book of Mormon, nor any abstract of their creed upon which we could fully rely, as a fair exposition of their opinions. This frank admission does not, however, preclude a summary verdict: The book of Mormon is a bungling and stupid production. . . . It contains some trite, moral maxims, but the phraseology . . . frequently violates every principle and rule of grammar. We have no hesitation in saying the whole system is erroneous . . .[6] George Cannon of Liverpool read the book through twice and concluded that A bad man could not have written it and a good man would be afraid to. It is from God. Or, as an alternative version of his reaction phrases it, No wicked man could write such a book as this; and no good man would write it, unless it were true and he were commanded of God to do so.[7] The physician Willard Richards had a similar reaction. Opening the book at random, without any idea of its overall structure and contents, before he had even read half a page, he declared that God or the devil has had a hand in that book, for man never wrote it. He read the book through twice over a period of about ten days, and was baptized by Brigham Young on 31 December 1836, at Kirtland, Ohio.[8] Parley Pratt: I read all day; eating was a burden, I had no desire for food; sleep was a burden when the night came, for I preferred reading to sleep. As I read, the spirit of the Lord was upon me, and I knew and comprehended that the Book was true, as plainly and manifestly as a man comprehends and knows that he exists. My joy was now full.[9] George Cannons son, the extremely intelligent George Q. Cannon (who would later go on to edit newspapers, found a major publishing company, impress Charles Dickens, and serve as both a territorial delegate to Congress and a counselor to four presidents of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), served for nearly four years (1850-1854) as a missionary in the Sandwich or Hawaiian Islands when he was in his early twenties. Hawaii was not yet the tourist and resort paradise that it would later become. Most of Cannons mission was spent on the island of Maui, where, at first, he was often alone among people whose language, customs, and culture were utterly alien to him. For the first year after I left home, he later recalled, I could scarcely think about it without my feelings getting the better of me. . . . Their very food was foreign to me and unlike anything I had ever before seen or tasted. I was much of the time separated from my companions, the Elders. Until I mastered the language and commenced preaching and baptizing the people, I was indeed a stranger among them. Before I commenced holding regular meetings, I had plenty of time for meditation, and to review all the events of my short life, and to think of the beloved home from which I was so far separated. It was then that I found the value of the Book of Mormon. It was a book which I always loved. But I learned there to appreciate it as I had never done before. If I felt inclined to be lonely, to be low spirited or home-sick, I had only to turn to its sacred pages to receive consolation, new strength and a rich outpouring of the Spirit. Scarcely a page that did not contain encouragement for such as I was. . . . No man can read it, partake of its spirit and obey its teachings, without being filled with a deep love for the souls of men and a burning to zeal to do all in his power to save them.[10] [1] Bernard DeVoto, The Centennial of Mormonism, American Mercury 19/5 (January 1930): 5. [Check original.] [2] An excellent short summary of the Book of Mormon is Hugh Nibley, The Mormon View of the Book of Mormon, in Hugh Nibley, The Prophetic Book of Mormon, edited by John W. Welch (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book and FARMS, 1989), 259-264. A shorter version of Professor Nibleys article was first published in the multilingual journal Concilium: Theology in the Age of Renewal 30 (New York: Paulist Press, 1968), 170-173; in the British version of the same publication, Concilium: An International Review of Theology 10 (December 1967): 82-83; and in the French, Portuguese, and German equivalents. [3] Nibley, New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study, 116. [4] Sterling McMurrin claimed that he was unable to take the Book of Mormon seriously as an authentic record, considering the claims of its coming from an angel and being translated by a miracle. He explained that it has a confused theology. He also acknowledged that he had never read the entire Book of Mormon. See L. Jackson Newell, ed., Matters of Conscience: Conversations with Sterling M. McMurrin on Philosophy, Education, and Religion (Salt Lake City: Signature Books, 1996), 114. [5] Thomas F. ODea, The Mormons (Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 1957), 26. [6] Cited in Terryl L. Givens, The Viper on the Hearth: Mormons, Myths, and the Construction of Heresy (New York and Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1997), 86. [7] See Davis Bitton, George Q. Cannon: A Biography (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1999), 34; also 478 note 5. [8] See Black, Stories from the Early Saints, 66. [9] Parley P. Pratt, Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt. (Find original.] [10] Cannon, My First Mission, 58, 59. [See original.] Posted from St. George, Utah by Alphonso Saville As America trods the path towards another showdown in the saga for racial justice, communities of faith must be prepared to provide spiritual and pragmatic resources for sustained resistance. Renowned scholar and theologian Josiah Young explains black spirituality is an antidote to anti-black racism and its aesthetics forms can be detected in the acts and perspectives that counter methods and systems of racial injustice. The internal fortitude produced by this artistic tradition is a testament to a rich spiritual legacy and is found in the literature, music, and dance of black folks. Hip-hop artists like the Atlanta-based rap group, Goodie Mob, provide invaluable resources towards this end. Goodie Mobs sophomore album, Still Standing (1998), features a skit in which an unnamed king demands his servant fetch the Royal Fool to dance to appease the kings boredom. When the servant returns, he delivers a message from the Royal Fool. You f*cking fool! he reads. N*ggas dont dance. All they do is this! The king is furious. All they do is this? he asks in anger and amazement. Off with his head! exclaims the king. Goodie Mobs parable explains that when the people hired (or forced) to entertain and work societys elites attempt to determine the circumstances and conditions under which they perform, they are routinely threatened with violence in return. In Biblical parables, kings rewarded laborers who bucked against the system with violent punishment and forced solitude. In the parable of the talents, the laborer who refused to work for the profit of the king was cast into outer darkness after he told the king that he was an unjust man who reaped where he had not sown. Similarly, Daniel and the 3 Hebrew boysShadrach, Meshach, and Abednegowere jailed and sentenced to death when they would not assume bodily postures that expressed allegiance to Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian empire. As these stories depict, threats, loss of wages, and state-sanctioned violence were common responses to those who acted in defiance to government empires. Repeatedly, kings and empirical governments lashed out with violent force to assert their physical dominance over their subjects. Violence was accompanied by loss of jobs and wagesblatant attempts to cut off access to resources needed for bodily health. In the stories of conflict between laborers and elites, phrases like Youre fired! and Off with his head signal to demonstrators that they are not permitted to control the postures and parameters of their public performance. Jesus admonished his followers not to fear those whose only power was to control or kill the body. He wanted them to be clear about the cost of discipleshipit might cost your very lives. Consequently, they needed to develop inner-fortitude impenetrable to the physical tools of the enemy. The same idea might be applied to a community of people engaged in active resistance to enemy forces. The internal communal dynamics needed to sustain collective resistance must be developed if movements for justice are to have a lasting effect. The historical record of African American freedom movements demonstrates this necessity. The Montgomery Bus Boycott achieved lasting success only because community members rallied to supply resources needed to supplement forfeited modes of public transportation. Such organization required sacrifices from both individuals and communities, and these sacrifices were often made despite attempts by law enforcement and private citizens alike to intimidate boycotters with threats of violence. Perhaps the storytelling genius of Goodie Mob and other hip-hop artists can provide the sustenance we need as we refuse to dance before the king. Alphonso F. Saville, IV is a scholar, educator, and artist. His research explores American religious history, African American religious literature, and religious freedom in contemporary American society. His poetic works are showcased via Twitter and Instagram. You can follow Dr. Saville @drphonsarelli. Donate to the Work of R3 News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. Family of Late Iranian President Hashemi Rafsanjani Banned From Traveling Abroad 10/16/17 Source: Center for Human Rights in Iran Four family members of the late Iranian President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani have been banned from traveling abroad by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), while one member is facing a "fabricated case" against her, an informed source told the Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI). Former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani with his wife, sons and daughters (source: Arman daily) In addition to being banned from international travel, Rafsanjani's daughter, former member of Parliament Faezeh Hashemi, is facing "several" court cases involving charges brought by the IRGC and the judiciary for her peaceful political activities. "Faezeh and Yasser Hashemi have been prohibited from traveling abroad by the prosecutor's office based on a request from the IRGC," the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told CHRI. "The reason is still not clear, but the IRGC has put together a report against Faezeh that is full of lies." "The IRGC claims that she has been refusing to show up in court," continued the source. "But in recent months, she has appeared in every court she has been summoned to. The IRGC also accused her of meeting with the Italian ambassador in Tehran to get a visa to leave the country before she was sentenced, which is another lie. She has had no meeting with the Italian ambassador. She doesn't need a visa. She has three years left on her five-year Italian visa." Faezeh Hashemi Travel bans have also been issued against Faezeh Hashemi's brother, Yasser Hashemi, as well as Rafsanjani's grandsons, Emad Hashemi and Fuad Hashemi. A ban that was previously imposed on Hassan Lahouti, Faezeh Hashemi's son, has been lifted and his passport has been returned. "Hassan and Emad recently discovered they were not allowed to leave the country when their passports were confiscated at Tehran's airport before boarding a flight," the informed source told CHRI. "But Hassan's case has been resolved and he got his passport back. There is a travel ban on Fuad as well, but he is a student in the UK, which means if he returns to Iran he would not be able to leave." The travel bans were issued on May 16, 2017, and the news was made public on September 23, 2017. "They have fabricated several cases against Faezeh in recent months, all based on her interviews and speeches," said the source. "The plaintiffs are the IRGC and the judiciary. Another accuser is the prosecutor in Arak [city in central Iran], who claims she made a campaign speech in violation of a ban they used to silence her." The outspoken political activist was prevented from speaking at the opening of President Hassan Rouhani's campaign office in Arak, 148 miles south of Tehran, on April 30, two weeks before Iran's presidential election. Faezeh Hashemi, 55, published Iran's first women's newspaper, Zan until it was banned in 1999. She also represented the people of Tehran in Parliament from 1996 to 2000. In 2012, she was imprisoned for six months for "propaganda against the state" and barred from political and media activities for five years for engaging in peaceful political activism. In March 2016, Branch 1060 of the Tehran Court for Government Employees sentenced her to six months in prison for the charges of "spreading falsehoods," "disturbing public opinion" and "propaganda against the state." She is currently awaiting a decision on her appeal. That month a high-ranking member of the judiciary vowed to punish her for meeting with a leader of Iran's persecuted Baha'i community and civil rights activists. On November 16 of that year, the judiciary's official news agency, Mizan, accused Hashemi of "slandering the judiciary" in an interview with the Dorr online TV channel in which she repeated previously posed questions about state funds deposited into Judiciary Chief Sadegh Larijani's personal accounts. Faezeh Hashemi's brother, Mehdi Hashemi, has been serving a 10-year prison sentence in Tehran's Evin Prison since August 2015 for allegedly engaging in financial corruption and anti-state activities. Iran, Canada diplomats hold talks in Tehran on re-establishing diplomatic relations 10/17/17 Source: Press TV A delegation from Global Affairs Canada has traveled to Tehran and held talks with Iranian officials in the continuation of efforts to re-establish diplomatic relations between the two countries. Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi said on Monday that the Canadian diplomatic team's travel to Iran took place after it made an earlier visit to the Islamic Republic back in May. "In continuation of the previous rounds of talks between the foreign ministries of Iran and Canada over the past two years, a delegation from Global Affairs Canada traveled to Tehran and held discussions with officials of our country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs," he added. The sides exchanged views with a positive approach on technical and specialized issues, the Iranian spokesperson said. He said Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and his Canadian counterpart Chrystia Freeland also held talks on the sidelines of the 72nd annual session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September. The administration of former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper severed diplomatic ties with Iran in September 2012, citing, among other pretexts, what it described as continued threats from Iran to Israel. Shortly after Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau assumed office in November 2015, Canada lifted a number of sanctions on Iran, bringing Ottawa into line with several world powers that had agreed to do so under the landmark nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), reached between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries. 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 Dr Ernest Addison, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, on Monday urged Compilers in West African countries to enhance knowledge on the compilation of Monetary and Financial Statistics in accordance with international best practices. He said this was important for the stability of the international financial system as the compilation of monetary and financial statistics had become more complex due to changes in the nature of transactions, including changes in the nature of institutional units and other transactions as well as increase in cross-border financial activities. Dr. Addison said this in a speech read on his behalf at the opening session of a two-week course on Monetary and Financial Statistics, organized by the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WIAFEM) in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Bank of Ghana. He admitted that Compilers of Financial and Monetary Statistics faced challenges of monitoring and improving data quality in the context of the rapid changes in the international financial sector. Dr. Addison said there was the need for timely, accessible and qualitative data dissemination for economic analyses and policy implementation compatible with international financial data dissemination standards. He indicated that the IMFs New Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual and Compilation Guide (NMFSMG), was intended to help member countries to improve the quality of their data through internationally agreed statistical methodology and reporting system. the need to upgrade the skills and capacities of compilers cannot be over-emphasized. Failure to appreciate the importance of acquiring the requisite skills often leads to poor collection, compilation and dissemination of monetary and financial statistics, he stated. Mr Rutto Nelson Kipkoech, Senior Economist with IMF, said the Fund was delighted to work together with WIAFEM in ensuring the sensitization of compilers in the financial sector in West Africa through the understanding of the NMFSMG. Mr Kipkoech said statistics were critical for formulating, monitoring and implementing monetary policy and for forecasting, and urged participants to open to learn from the resource persons that would be taking them through the course. On his part, Professor Akpan H. Ekpo, the Director General of WAIFEM, in a welcome address delivered on his behalf said the two-week course was designed to train participants on the issues on the principles of residency and economic sectorization, the characteristics and classification of financial instruments, valuation, and the other accounting issues relevant to the compilation of monetary policies. He indicated that participants would compile monetary statistics for the central banks, depository corporations and other depository corporations according to the methodology of recommended by the NMFSMG. Prof. Ekpo also called on Anglophone countries in West Africa to learn the French language saying: The Anglophone countries in the sub-region cannot underestimate the importance of French language if they want to be successful in their communication, business, diplomacy and interactions in other areas with French speaking countries. He noted that WIAFEM collaborates with a number of institutions to ensure high and international standards in its programmes such as the ongoing two-week course expected to end on October 27. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The day was Wednesday, August 24, 2016. I had gone to Kujawein in the Bunkrugu District of the Northern Region to cover a programme on the menace of Open Defecation. The weather was clear as the skies gave way to the hot sun rays. It was 12:17p.m. That was my first day in Kujawein. Thatch-roofed mud houses dominate structures in the community. Kujawein is a farming community with a population of about 600 people. My eyes continued to scan the make-up of the community although I was not new to the village setting. My first day observation at Kujawein however, sharply contrasted the import of the popular saying by the late celebrated former South African leader, Nelson Mandella, that: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. If there is any truth in this saying, then children in Kujawein are born to be powerless and noncompetitive against the rest of the world. I observed with a troubled heart the number of school-age children, who were loitering in the community as of the time of our visit. These children should have been in school at the time we found them in the community wondering aimlessly. Why are these children here at this time and not in school? I softly asked a parent who offered me a chair under one shea tree. Her name was Latifa. We dont have a school here so our children have to travel for about five kilometers to Temaa D/A Primary to attend school. That is why many of the children are home. Only the elderly ones can walk to school so normally they start school at age eight, she said. It sounded unbelievable, that children from this community should have to walk about 5km to Temaa every day to attend the Temaa D/A Primary school. They repeat the effort after school. Latifas response drove a knife into my heart, virtually. I was disturbed by the ages of the children who were yet to start school. I was sad also because elsewhere in Accra and other big towns in Ghana, some children start schooling as early as six months. But for children in Kujawein, the self-imposed age to start school is eight or more. Latifa who could not go to school herself had four children. Only two of her children were in school. One was 14 and the other nine. They are in primary three and two respectively. Hawa Alhassan is one of the children I found at the village. She was 13 years. When I asked her of her name in English, she could not answer because she did not understand what I had said. A colleague of mine had to translate what I said in Bimoba for her. Having known Hawas name, I asked her what she would love to become in future. In a Bimoba language, she said she would want to become a nurse. Her dream of becoming a nurse was to enable her treat pregnant women in her community who struggle to go to hospital during childbirth. But Hawas dream seems like a mirage. Children such as Hawa, Zamana Ahmed, 9, and Mohammed Dauda, 11, in Kujawein, are among the over 440,000 out-of-school children in Ghana. These children are likely not to get formal education if proper interventions are not instituted to meet their needs. As it is rightly captured in the thoughts of a former United Nations (UN) Secretary General, Kofi Annan, Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family. Children in Kujawein, like their colleagues in Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast, deserve equal opportunity and access to quality education. SDG 4 For instance, Goal Four (4) of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is to "Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all". The framers of the SDGs did not target only the few privileged children in society but all children. The SDGs, otherwise known as the Global Goals, are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. The main objective of the SDGs is to serve as a guide to world leaders to take decisions and actions that would improve life, in a sustainable way, for both the present and future generations. Globally, it is estimated that there about 57 million out-of-school children, with Africa having the largest concentration. Nigeria, for instance, holds the highest figure in Africa of about 10.5 million out-of-school children. UN Report In the July 28, 2017 report by the Secretary General of UN, Antonio Guterres, on SDGs, titled Progress towards the SDGs, he said achieving inclusive and equitable quality education for all will require increasing efforts, especially in sub-Saharan Africa for the vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities, indigenous people, refugee children and poor children in rural areas. According to the report, about 263 million children and youth are out of school, including 61 million children of primary school age with Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia accounting for over 70 per cent of the global out-of-school population in primary and secondary education. FCUBE Ghana has since independence made significant strides in its education system. Notable among these policies and programmes include the Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education (FCUBE) programme, introduced in October, 1996. The FCUBE programme was introduced among other things, to expand access to good quality basic education in Ghana. It was also to improve teacher morale and motivation through incentive programmes as well as ensuring adequate and timely supply of teaching and learning materials to schools. However, the growing numbers of out-of-school children in the country appear to be an imminent threat that could thwart Ghanas efforts in achieving SDG 4. According to the 2011 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), about 440,000 children aged 6-14 are estimated to be out-of-school, with the situation being worse in northern Ghana. Most of these out-of-school children are those mostly found in hard-to-reach communities, children from poor households, children with disabilities, and working children. The Ghana 2010 Census data indicates that the proportions of the population who have never been to school in the three regions in northern Ghana range between 44.5 per cent in Upper East and 54.9 per cent in the Northern region while in the other regions, it ranges between 10.1 per cent. Rescued On April 6, 2017, Plan Ghana, an international Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), rescued and provided Complementary Basic Education (CBE) to 9,139 out-of-school children in four districts in the Northern Region. The children were drawn from Tatale-Sangule, Chereponi, Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo and the Tamale Metropolitan Assemblies. The Director of Supervision of the Ghana Education Service (GES) in the Northern Region, Alhaji Issah Abah, in an interview blamed the high numbers of out-of-school children in the region on the lack of parental responsibility. He said many parents had shirked their responsibilities to send their wards to school, and were instead using such children on their farms. He expressed worry that most of the out-of-school children, particularly the girls, usually ended up migrating to the southern part of the country to engage in head porterage, popularly known as Kayayei. Contributing to the issues, the Northern Regional Coordinator of Plan Ghana, Mr Stephen Konde said there are many communities in the country especially in the northern Ghana without schools, adding that such communities have huge numbers of the out-of-school children. For us as a nation to meet the SDG 4, we need to improve upon our current infrastructure, he said. He explained that although government is doing well in combatting out-of-school children menace, a lot more needed to be done in transitioning some of the CBE learners from remote areas to schools within the GES approved 5 km radius. Mr Konde said most of the out-of-school children enrolled in formal school system by Plan Ghana under the CBE programme are aged between eight and 14, adding that the children were rescued from 189 communities. Effects On Tuesday, October 27, 2015, the then Acting Deputy Director General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Stephen Adu, who was speaking at the 20th anniversary of School for Life, an NGO in Tamale, said the over 440,000 out-of-school children constituted a critical mass whose continuous exclusion from the school system will thwart the nations goal on education for all. We are denying all such children the opportunity for them to also contribute their quota to the development of this our great nation, he added. On September 27, 2017, the Daily Graphic reported that more than 8,000 out-of-school children in the Kpandai District in the Northern Region have been enrolled in formal schools through the CBE programme by Ibis-Ghana, an NGO, since 2013 to date. CBE programme The CBE, introduced in 2013, with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Department for International Development (DFID) in partnership with government and some NGOs, is an education programme that provides literacy and numeracy skills to out-of-school children before they are absorbed in the formal education system. The goal of the CBE which will end in 2018 is to enroll 200,000 out-of-school children. One of the greatest challenges CBE learners face has to do with availability and access to primary school facilities. This is because most of the CBE beneficiaries who live far away from school tend to stop schooling along the way. The way forward All over the world, education as a subject has received prominent attention and treatment. This is because education enlightens people. The move to achieve quality education for all, rages on unabated. It is believed that people who keep their children from going to school do so because they have limited understanding and knowledge about the importance of education. However, we can change the narrative in our time by ensuring that all children of school going age in Ghana have access to quality education no matter where they found themselves. For us to achieve SDG4, it will require our collective effort in tackling the menace of out-of-school children in the country. Until we tackle the menace of out-of-school children, Ghana will find it very difficult to achieve education for all as stipulated in Goal 4 of the SDG. Let us work to provide school infrastructure for hard-to-reach communities, provide incentives for teachers to accept postings to hard-to-reach communities, and also create awareness about the importance of education to compel parents not to keep their children from going to school. I could not agree more with the former First Lady of the United States of America (USA), Michelle Obama, who said: Empower yourself with a good education, then get out there and use that education to build a country worthy of your boundless promise. Let us empower all Ghanaian children with quality education for them to realise their goals in life and contribute to the building of the country. Writers email: [email protected] / [email protected] Source: Zadok Kwame Gyesi - [email protected] / [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 A Supreme Court Judge, Justice Vida Akoto Bamfo, has challenged the National Media Commission (NMC) to device measures to tame the ills of social media. Some of the vices are revenge pornography, vile religious indoctrination and sophisticated cross border crimes. The National Media Commission should be interested in this relatively new area of mass communication and find ways to curb the dangers they pose to the cohesion of society, she urged at the swearing-in ceremony of two members of the commission in Accra yesterday. The two members, Mr Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, the Member of Parliament for Asante-Akim Central and Mr Edward Elorm Desewu, were nominated by Parliament and the Private Newspaper Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) respectively. Justice Akoto Bamfo observed that the NMC had had its work cut out at a time of exponential expansion in the media space. New media in this digital age have expanded the frontiers of mass communications to lengths previously unimaginable. While this development is most welcome, it comes with the chief danger of anonymity and hence the opportunity for individuals to indulge in unsavoury and often detestable past times, she noted. Responsibility Turning her attention to the new members of the NMC, Justice Akoto Bamfo reminded them that their appointment was an honour which came with great responsibility. My plea is for you to help shape media practice in the country as we collectively seek to brand Ghana as an attractive investment and tourist destination. Do not disappoint your constituents who nominated you to represent them on the commission. Always remember that you will be assessed as the commissioners based on your performance as media regulators, she counselled. Challenges The Chairman of the NMC, Nana Kwasi Gyan Apenteng, commented on the challenges confronting the commission saying, apart from the number game, the media terrain had changed completely. He attributed this to the existence of technology, different political and constitutional dispensation and different sets of political economic considerations. According to the NMC, the country currently has more than 400 radio stations, 40 newspapers and over 70 free to air television stations. Nana Apenteng tasked both old and new members of the commission to execute their mandate and take their job description seriously, as spelt out by the Constitution. We know we are busy people but we need to factor in the work of the NMC in our daily tasks. We must not treat the work of the commission as some kind of an optional afterthought, he stated. Standards Nana Gyan Apenteng mentioned that the NMC had started stakeholder consultations with the Ghana Independent Broadcasting Association in order to agree on principles that would underline the new laws on standards. He explained that the principles would ensure the democratic regulation of the media space and the contents they produced. In response, Mr Kwame Anyimadu Antwi, promised that they would work together as a team with the other members and also deliver as expected . He was also hopeful that the Right to Information Bill which had been in Parliament for some time now would be passed. 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 Ghana's Deputy Ambassador to China His Excellency Dr Charles Dwamena has advised foreign students of the Wenzhou Medical University in China to aim at attaining all round development whilst studying in the country (China) to position them well to effectively serve their country after school. Dr Charles Dwamena was speaking at the 2017 Wenzhou Medical University International Students Commencement ceremony at Wenzhou in China . He advised the students to cultivate the habit of serving and helping others especially the less privileged in society. His Excellency Dr Charles Dwamena also advised the students to explore the cultures of other countries to acquire more experience to serve their country after completing their courses. His Excellency Dr Charles Dwamena who is an Alumni of the Wenzhou Medical University was awarded an Honorary Credential of "Outstanding Alumni Award" by the University for his outstanding achievement which has brought credit to the university. Source: Emmanuel Akorli/PeaceFM's Parliamentary Correspondent 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 Economic and Organised Crime Unit have arrested two (2) Ghanaians and the UK counterpart for allegedly defrauding over 16 UK citizens to the tune of 5 million. The Suspects Moro Musah and Sabina Adzre were arrested in Accra whilst their counterpart, a certain Opoku Agyemang was arrested in the U.K. According to the Deputy Director in charge of operations, Nana Antwi, a joint simultaneous operation and search in both Ghana and U.K. led to the arrest of the suspects. Addressing the press today at the EOCO office, Nana Antwi, explained that following an investigation into Trade Based Money Laundering in the U.K. and Ghana, the National Crime Agency (NCA) in U.K. commenced an investigation into the alleged Money laundering and romance fraud. Romance scam is a particular dangerous and vicious form of mass market fraud because it targets not only the victims assets but also abuses them emotionally. Trade-based money laundering on the other hand is exploiting legitimate businesses to launder proceeds of crime", he explained. "A 71-year-old lady, a British, who fell victim to the fraud has allegedly committed suicide", he added. He added that so far, the investigations have uncovered that sixteen (16) persons have fallen victim to this fraud from which Five Million pounds sterling (5 million) has been identified as stolen from victims in the U.K. This amount has been transferred from U.K. and found their way through certain accounts in some banks in Ghana. He added that those monies have been withdrawn from the accounts and invested in other legitimate businesses. 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 All entries submitted to the U.S. Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, between October 3rd and 10th have been lost due to a technical glitch. Individuals who submitted applications during these dates are directed to reapply. "Entries submitted during October 3-10 are not valid and have been excluded from the system; they will not count as a duplicate entry," a message on the U.S. State Department's website said. Duplicate entries to the program disqualify aspiring immigrants. "The technical issue has been resolved and a new full entry period will begin at noon, U.S. Eastern Daylight Time on Wednesday, October 18, 2017 and will run until noon Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, November 22, 2017," it added, telling applicants to "throw away" any confirmation number or documentation of applications submitted between the 3rd and 10th. The State Department will be sending automated email notifications to each entrant who applied in early October, instructing them to check the website dvlottery.state.gov "for an important announcement", spokesperson Pooja Jhunjhunwala told VOA via email. "We will also work through our embassies and consulates to inform potential entrants of the situation and new registration period using social media and local media outlets," she wrote. Though the application period has been extended, experts fear that many entrants may not know to reapply. "At least, they extended the entry period to make it a full month again. But I have doubt that thousands of applicants from the third world, who dont check the internet every day, will know that their prior entry is no longer valid, Kenneth Rinzler, a Washington, D.C.-based immigration attorney, tells VOA. For would-be Americans who dont have family in the U.S., or an employer to sponsor them, or who arent refugees, the diversity visa is the only option. It requires a high school degree or a few years of work experience just to qualify. If the application is valid, your number is chosen and you pass the other requirements for immigrants, you still need the money to get to the U.S. It's a small portion of immigration to the U.S. every year, but larger than other cornerstones of the program, like employment-based immigrant visas. In Fiscal Year 2015, the U.S. issued 48,097 diversity visas out of 531,463 total immigrant visas. Winners of the current lottery would get their visas during the 2019 fiscal year that runs from Oct. 1, 2018 to Sept. 30, 2019. Natives of all countries qualify except Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China (mainland-born), Colombia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, South Korea, the United Kingdom (except Northern Ireland) and its dependent territories, and Vietnam. People born in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are eligible. 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 Kidnappers who abducted a Catholic priest, Rev. Father Timothy Nwanja slept off after drinking the holy communion wine found in the parish. The priest was abducted on Sunday night at his residence at St. Marys Parish in Okpokueze Nkomoro community, Imoha Development Centre of Ezza North Local Government Area in Nigeria. The cleric noticed they were asleep in an uncompleted building he was taken to, he jumped out of the window and fled. The Ebonyi Police Command Public Relations Officer, ASP Loveth Odah said on Monday that the police acted on an intelligent report and the kidnappers hideout were raided while the Catholic priest and his cook were rescued. The priest was having dinner when the kidnappers sneaked into his room not knowing that his cook had gone upstairs to get water from the refrigerator. They abducted her; and on hearing her scream, the priest ran upstairs to know what was going on and they also abducted him. They took him away in his own vehicle, blindfolded and blocked his ears so that he wont be able to listen to their conversation, According to Odah, the kidnappers separated the priest and cook and luckily for the priest, he jumped out through the window of the uncompleted building where he was taken to. The kidnappers had taken Holy Communion wine while in the priests house and subsequently dozed off which enabled the priest to escape. They had planned to demand the N100 million ransom from the Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese in the morning before running out of luck. We have arrested one of the suspected kidnappers and have launched a manhunt for the remaining two, she said. 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 Former presidential Press Secretary in the Kufour government, Dr Andrew Awuni, says presidents and their deputies do not need more than two vehicles when travelling. Whether it is the President or the Vice President, they dont need more than two vehicles and they dont use more than two vehicles, Dr Awuni told Class9 on Monday, 16 October. He added that other vehicles that bloat the convoy of the President and his Vice are those for security, protocol and backup services in times of emergencies, hence vehicles in the convoys are normally five. Sometimes, there are extra two cars for the press and an ambulance to add up to seven. For him, it is erroneous for former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Professor Stephen Adei, to conclude that the Vice President travels with a 16-SUV convoy. Prof Adei, who was speaking at the 20th anniversary celebration of international audit firm Morrison and Associations, said such a large convoy is a blot on governments good record in office so far. "So far, the government is doing well except that if you go to the right quarters, tell them that the next time I see Bawumia or any of them travelling with 16 four-wheel drives and then occupying the two lanes, so that coming and going should stop, I am going to do a one-man crusade, Prof Adei said. "That must be stopped at once, he noted. But Mr Awuni explains that: Prof Adei overreacted and I also thought that he was a bit presumptuous in thinking that he could overtake the Vice Presidents convoy and to stop the convoy. He indicated that it would have been risky if he tried to stop the convoy because we know the good Prof and we love him, but he should be careful because he could be putting himself in the line of fire if he attempts that kind of thing. The security boys who deal with that kind of thing dont know our beloved Prof, so he should slow down. Mr Awuni, however, condemned individuals who join the convoy illegally. We have a cultural problem and people like eye service. As soon as the convoy gets out, supposing he is going to Osu, the Osu DCE wants to be part of the convoy, the Osu Police Commander wants to be part of the convoy. Depending on where he is going, if it is got to do with Ministry, the Minister wants to be part of the convoy and do not want to go and wait at the destination. The Deputy Minister, Chief Directors and sometimes traditional rulers and constituency executives all want to follow the convoy, he lamented. 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 Locks in export price of $46 per barrel for 2018: Rubio. Larger stabilization fund will help secure price for 2018. MEXICO CITY Petroleumworld 10 17 2017 Mexico has completed its annual oil hedge for 2018, which will lock in an average export price of $46 per barrel of crude, Deputy Finance Minister Vanessa Rubio said in an interview. In addition to the put options bought on the market, a larger Oil Revenue Stabilization Fund, with the help of the central bank's exchange-rate surplus, will help guarantee the price, Rubio told Bloomberg News. "We have completed it and we're assured that the hedge perfectly covers the price of a barrel that we included in the 2018 budget of $46 dollars," Rubio said Mexico buys put options from a small group of investment banks each year in what's considered Wall Street's largest -- and most secretive -- annual oil hedge. Finance Minister Jose Antonio Meade said in an interview in September that Mexico would likely expand its oil hedge marginally for 2018 as it liberalizes gasoline prices, while the cost for the government to protect crude exports against a drastic drop in prices will be about the same as for this year. The Mexican oil hedge runs from the beginning of December until the end of November. In recent years, Mexico has spent on average $1 billion buying the put options from Wall Street banks. The country has made money three times on the hedge since it started to lock-in prices every year in 2000, including a record payout of $6.4 billion in 2015 after oil prices crashed Uncovering the Secret History of Wall Street's Largest Oil Trade As U.S. Rep. Tom Marino (R., Pa.) was withdrawing his candidacy for President Trump's "drug czar" job Tuesday morning, after the Washington Post/60 Minutes story on how the drugmaker-backed congressman led efforts to block the Drug Enforcement Administration from busting rogue pharma companies that contribute to prescription-drug abuse, the CEO of mega-drug distributor AmerisourceBergen was onstage at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, explaining his company's trade in opioid painkillers. Steven Collis told 1,500 members of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia that all 20,000 people who work at his Chesterbrook company including 1,150 in Chesterbrook, Conshohocken, Valley Forge, and Thorofare, N.J. considered the story "one-sided." "We want to tell our side of the story," about the "most heavily regulated" U.S. industry, after nuclear power, and maybe banks, said Collis, a native of South Africa. He reminded the crowd of the drugs' importance as painkillers for cancer and hospice patients. He cited the gratitude of their caregivers. He praised AmerisourceBergen's secure warehouses, its care in shipping dangerous drugs only to licensed medical operators, and its record of reporting "tens of thousands of suspicious orders" to the DEA over the years, even though that ate into company sales. (Those sales topped $147 billion last year, more than Amazon's, GE's or Comcast's.) "But what is a suspicious order?" Collis added. "We try to ship what our customers need. We don't know who our customer is." That's the job of doctors, pharmacists, and hospitals, said the distributor. It's tough, telling his side, Collis said: "I wrote an article, 'The Surprising Reality of Opioids.' I could not get it published" by a national publication. So he posted it on his social-media account. (Read it in its entirety on his LinkedIn page, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/surprising-morality-opioid-distribution-steve-collis/) Collis acknowledged the "human crisis" of opioid abuse and addiction: "More people have died in this than [the Americans killed] in the Vietnam War." But AmerisourceBergen is doing its part, he told the crowd. "We're being even more proactive." His company is working more with Walgreens, Blue Cross, and others to help pharmacies dump unwanted drugs, so they don't go to addicts, he said. This has happened before. Drug suppliers like Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Malvern, under pressure after police accounts of overdose deaths, FDA demands to withdraw much-abused drugs, state and local government complaints, private lawsuits, and falling share values, have lately cut opioid sales. As I noted in a September column, "The Opioid Wash Cycle," last month Endo agreed to stop selling Opana ER, a version of an opioid painkiller it had previously stopped selling in 1982, after the last gruesome national overdose crisis. In December, AmerisourceBergen and Cardinal Health agreed to pay West Virginia $36 million after communities in that state sued Collis' company (and its rivals) for swamping small towns with more opioid pills than residents could use if they were all on prescriptions. The company faces investigations in other states, including Pennsylvania. In his remarks, Collis also praised the Philadelphia area as a convenient U.S. business base, encouraging Amazon to add its second headquarters here. Collis said he, too, would be looking for new space in a couple of years, when his office leases expire. Maybe they'll move to Philadelphia, with its large populations of hospitals, medical schools, and painkiller users? "We're talking to them," Mayor Kenney told me on the way out. Excerpts from Collis' article: Sadly, it is difficult to avoid the epidemic of opioid abuse afflicting our country. While the media have helped bring attention and focus to this issue, too many people are experiencing it firsthand ... The search for accountability has directed significant attention to a relatively unknown but important industry pharmaceutical distribution ... Nearly every prescription medicine available in the United States moves through [AmerisourceBergen and a few other] distributors who purchase drugs from pharmaceutical manufacturers and sell them to pharmacies ... Distributors must create a supply chain that is safe and secure. We must ensure our customers are licensed and registered with appropriate entities like the DEA and state boards of pharmacy. And, we need to cooperate with law enforcement ... We report the quantity and details of every order of opioid-based medication we ship directly to the DEA on a daily basis. We use complex algorithms to identify and stop orders that are deemed to be suspicious ... Why don't distributors, like AmerisourceBergen, simply stop selling these medicines to pharmacies or set limits on the amount of these medicines that can be ordered? These are questions I ask myself regularly ... The Food and Drug Administration approves opioid-based pain medicines based on the criteria that the drugs' benefits outweigh their risks ... If AmerisourceBergen or our peers made the decision not to fill orders for these therapies, we would put ourselves in a position to interfere with individual clinical decisions that are made by health care providers with their patients ... It would set a dangerous precedent ... The power to override clinical decisions is not an authority that should be granted to us ... Cancer patients who need to manage their pain might not be able to access approved medicines that could ease their suffering. Hospices may not have the right therapies to provide comfort to patients in their care ... Stopping distribution of opioids would be an easy but amoral choice. A medical marijuana grower with roots in Chicago is the first company to be given approval to begin cannabis cultivation in Pennsylvania, the Wolf administration announced Tuesday morning. Cresco Yeltrah LLC began converting an old industrial space 100 miles north of Pittsburgh into a grow house soon after winning one of 12 grower/processor permits in late June. The state Department of Health approved the Jefferson County facility after several inspections. The company can now begin to accept seeds and plant clones. Given the plant's approximately 120-day growing cycle, Cresco Yeltrah could have its first medical marijuana oils and tinctures delivered to retail dispensaries by early January. "Cresco Yeltrah will now be able to grow medical marijuana, making sure that patients will not have to wait much longer," Gov. Wolf said in a statement. Pennsylvania residents who suffer from 17 conditions including cancer, chronic pain, and PTSD will be able to get recommendations from participating medical professionals for medical marijuana products. The company, which has partnered with Illinois-based Cresco Labs, will cultivate its crop in the town of Brookville. Cresco Yeltrah also is set to open dispensaries in Butler and Pittsburgh. Last month, Cresco announced it was investing in a $500,000 awareness campaign to alert patients, doctors and nurses that the medical marijuana program would be launching soon. City of Woodbury Mayor Jessica M. Floyd, city administrator Scott Carew and Woodbury Police Chief Thomas Ryan at Woodbury City Hall on Oct. 12. The three and others in city government and in the community are working to make Woodbury more LGBTQ-friendly. Read more The rainbow banners flying along Woodbury's Broad Street in the summer were signs that the venerable little city's new promotional effort was under way. Mayor Jessica M. Floyd, Police Chief Thomas Ryan, city administrator Scott Carew and community leaders hope to showcase Woodbury as a welcoming place for LGBTQ visitors and residents. The officials say this ambitious bit of branding which once would have been unusual, if not unthinkable, for a South Jersey county seat is the right thing to do, and part of an economic development strategy, too. "We've seen what has happened in Collingswood and Asbury Park," says Floyd, citing two New Jersey municipalities where a visible gay presence has been part of a broader renaissance in recent decades. "Maybe this is the spin that we've needed," adds the mayor. A 42-year-old married mother of three, Floyd isn't gay. Neither are Ryan and Carew. But they're comfortable with Woodbury's diversity in all its forms. "It's 2017," Ryan, 37, a 15-year police veteran and a Woodbury booster, observes. Although no one on the 28-member police force is openly gay, the department supported a recent city council resolution appointing Carew as liaison to the police department on LGBTQ matters, says the chief. He and other city officials also say they work well with Tony Doran, a native son who moved back to Woodbury two years ago. Doran and the organization he helped establish, Woodbury Community Pride, have helped energize the local LGBTQ community and deepen its relationship with City Hall. "Our mission is to achieve prosperity through equality and create a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ people and small businesses," Doran says by email, adding that he hopes Woodbury will become "the most LGBTQ-friendly city in South Jersey." Earlier this month, Woodbury Community Pride sponsored a comedy night fundraiser at the city Armory; other events, such as gatherings for fans of the trivia game Quizzo, have enlivened the heart of the city. And the group has programs in the works "that will continue to highlight Woodbury as a destination for the LGBTQ community," adds Doran, 44, a government contract specialist who's currently a Rutgers-Camden graduate student. "When Tony approached us, it was a no-brainer," says Floyd. "We're beyond 'what are people going to say?' After the banners went up on Broad Street, there were a couple complaints. But I think this has been received well." Needless to say, gay people have been living in Woodbury forever; Rainbow Place, South Jersey's pioneering LGBT community center, opened on North Broad Street in the mid-1990s and operated there for several years. "We didn't know what the reaction would be, but nobody bothered us, ever. It was really kind of great," says my friend Ted Marvel, 54, of Philadelphia, who was living in Collingswood when he and several other local activists established Rainbow Place. "There was nothing else like it in the South Jersey region," Marvel adds. "It really filled a void." LGBTQ life has long since gone mainstream. And downtown living is all the rage; millennials and others are gravitating to inexpensive urban neighborhoods across the country. But while attracting new and younger people in all their variety makes good sense for Woodbury, challenges remain. The city's population has been declining for decades and has dipped to just below 10,000; the long-promised Gloucester County rail line and its Woodbury station still exist only on paper; and Inspira (formerly Underwood) hospital, a city institution since 1915, will shift most of its operations to a new Harrison Township campus by 2019. Woodbury does have a rich history, with roots dating back to the late 1600s. It is blessed with leafy neighborhoods, lovely parks, and eclectic architecture. And churches. A lot of churches, so many, that there's a postcard showing a variety of local church doors. In recent years, new businesses, including a microbrewery, have opened on and near South Broad. There's a growing arts scene, where support for the promotional effort is strong. The city "has said definitively that this is a place for everyone, and I've never been more proud to be a resident," says artist Jacqualynn Knight, 40. "Woodbury has a sense of community in an almost retro way," notes Carew, 48, who previously served as township administrator in Moorestown. Woodbury's traditional look and feel led him to inquire why the city was not included in the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission's Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia program; Woodbury's application is pending. The city also is looking to do well on the Municipal Equality Index, a state-by-state evaluation of American cities conducted by the Human Rights Campaign, an LGBTQ rights advocacy organization. "By achieving a high rating, it will help us get the word out to the LGBTQ community that Woodbury is a safe place to live, work and play," says Carew. I'd say Woodbury is doing rather well so far. I was so pleasantly surprised by the banners one afternoon last summer that I stopped to take a photo of one. I particularly like the slogan on it: "Everyone is welcome." I asked longtime LGBTQ activist and city native Kathy Hogan, who made local history a dozen years ago as the first openly gay deputy mayor of Haddon Township, what she thinks of her old hometown's new promotional campaign. Citing "current attempts [elsewhere] to roll back what rights we've gained," Hogan says, "Woodbury was a great town for all of us baby boomers to grow up in. I celebrate [the city's] embrace of our right to live in peace, pride and dignity. Hooray for Woodbury!" Saamir Moore holds the violin he plays at Mitchell Elementary in Southwest Philadelphia as if it is the most precious object in the world. To the fifth grader, it is that and more: a reason to attend and do well in class, and a chief joy in his life. "Music," said Saamir, 11, "helps me when I'm mad or sad. I love it." Across the city, children have uneven opportunities to participate in arts and music programs some schools are rich with them, and others have none. To afford more resources to children such as Saamir, the Philadelphia School District, the Neubauer Family Foundation, and the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education are releasing an exhaustive analysis of city schools' arts programs Tuesday that shows where they are and how they operate. The 16-month, multi-organization dive into the state of arts education shows that despite the district's status as among the poorest in the nation, 90 percent of its 220 schools have full-time art or music education, and 60 percent have both. Others have a patchwork maybe a full-time art or music teacher, plus a part-time instrumental program, or an after-school program run by a community partner. A few have no arts programs at all a legacy of high-stakes testing, budget cuts, hiring and scheduling challenges, or other factors, officials said. The aim is to redesign and amplify arts education in city schools, with more opportunities for students, better training for teachers, and more support for principals, said Frank Machos, executive director of the district's Office of Arts & Academic Enrichment. There's also a push to make it easier for outside organizations to understand the needs of specific schools and partner with them. The goal is to get instrumental music into every elementary school and to make traditional (drawing, drama, classical music) and modern (game design, hip-hop dancing, filmmaking) elective opportunities available at the secondary level. This year, schools will assess their needs and develop plans for what they'd like over the next five years; schools, district officials, and outside partners will work to make that a reality, they said. A public, searchable map will allow parents, arts organizations and other interested parties to see where resources and gaps are. "We still face that narrative of, 'There's no arts in the schools,'" said Machos. "But we're the third-largest arts spender in the city, and we have the largest reach. We still see great opportunities to grow and reach more students." Mitchell has a full-time art teacher; an instrumental music teacher who spends part of his week at the school; and the violin program, which is funded by Wayne Presbyterian Church, a longtime partner of the school's. Principal Stephanie Andrewlevich loves what arts do for the school at 55th and Kingsessing but wishes she had more of it: Fewer than 10 percent of the school's 540 K-8 students have access to music classes. "The arts allow a child to realize an ability they didn't know they had," said Andrewlevich. There is no price tag attached to the citywide initiative; a large part of the effort is better harnessing the efforts of over 400 community partners willing to offer Philadelphia kids arts education at low or no cost. "I don't think this is a budget issue, so much as it is a networking, purposeful planning issue," said Andrewlevich, a third-year principal adept at securing outside help for her school. The effort included conversations with students, teachers, and principals; a national examination of best practices; and workshops with 50 community arts programs, some of which had never collaborated, said Martin Ihrig, a professor at Penn's Graduate School of Education and at Wharton. "It was, 'How can we be more entrepreneurial when it comes to helping the kids?'" said Ihrig. "We structured ourselves this way to solve a public problem." Part of the problem, historically, has been the district's reputation as not always easy to work with or navigate. "Absent this framework, it's really tough to say, 'I'm an arts organization, how do I support schools?'" said Daniel Berkowitz, chief strategy officer for the Neubauer Family Foundation. But it's not just about outside providers. An analysis of the city's instrumental music programs completed by Councilwoman Helen Gym's office earlier this year, for example, found that many city schools that lack such programs are concentrated in high-poverty areas that serve large numbers of minority students. To help address that deficiency, the district added instrumental music at 14 additional schools this year, Machos said; in fact, the number of arts educators has increased steadily over the past several years, from 390 arts teachers in the 2013-14 school year to 437 this year. His department has also added employees and a renewed focus on equity and access, he said. "We're seeing where programs are, where there are deficiencies, and we're being more intentional," he said. "Some schools, we need to be more proactive with, and that's one of our priorities going forward." Machos said the process was driven by a mandate from Superintendent William R. Hite Jr. and his team to get more arts into schools. "Little kids are intrinsically artistic," Machos said. "It's our job to embrace that and bring it out. We have an opportunity to be a global leader in arts education." John Williams with the Philadelphia Orchestra in a May 2016 concert with conductor Stephane Deneve. Read more John Williams returns to the Philadelphia Orchestra in April for a one-night-only concert, the orchestra announced Tuesday. Stephane Deneve will conduct Williams' concert music in the first half, with Williams leading the orchestra in the second half with selections from his film scores, including Indiana Jones, Harry Potter, and Star Wars. The April 18 concert in Verizon Hall for which Williams, Deneve, and the orchestra musicians are donating their services is to benefit the Philadelphia Orchestra musicians' pension fund. Repertoire also includes Williams' Concerto for Tuba and Orchestra, with orchestra principal tuba player Carol Jantsch. Tickets are on sale for subscribers immediately, and for others at an unspecified later date. Prices range from $76 to $250, with premium tickets beginning at $500 that include a preconcert event. Sponsorships begin at $5,000 and feature the opportunity to sit on stage during the rehearsal for the program. Information is at 215-893-1999 or www.philorch.org. Saturday Night Live'cast member Kate McKinnon. During a skit on Saturday nights show, she reprised her role as White House counselor Kellyanne Conway. Read more In February, a slightly dark Saturday Night Live sketch featuring Kellyanne Conway garnered criticism from both conservatives and liberals for portraying the top aide to President Trump as obsessed with getting on CNN, in a spoof of the 1987 thriller Fatal Attraction. On Saturday's broadcast, the show featured a new pre-filmed segment featuring the South Jersey native, played once again by cast member Kate McKinnon. This time, Conway was depicted as the clown Pennywise in a spoof of the horror film It. In the sketch, "Kellywise" tries to persuade CNN's Anderson Cooper (played by cast member Alex Moffat) to join her in the sewer for quotes to use on his show, ending with Cooper's arm being ripped off and devoured by McKinnon's Conway. Watch: The sketch didn't receive anywhere close to the criticism last year's spoof did, and Conway didn't comment or respond to a request to weigh in on the segment. But the folks at Fox & Friends weren't too happy with how the White House counselor was portrayed. "It still irritates me to no end. I'm being nice," weekend cohost David Webb said Sunday morning after being shown part of the sketch. The criticism centered on the idea that it's OK to mock a conservative woman, but mocking a liberal woman in the same manner would be considered sexist or misogynist. If SNL had mocked Michelle Obama this way, it would be condemned as "racist," cohost Pete Hegseth said. "Do this to Hillary Clinton," Webb said. "Put her in the drain like the clown, just goading the Russians or someone else in." Ironically, the segment did feature McKinnon's Hillary Clinton in the sewer, as well. "There's this sense of hypocrisy when we talk about Kellyanne," said cohost Abby Huntsman. She said comedy centered on Conway always seems to be focused on her looks. "But not respected for her brains or her smarts," Webb interrupted. "There's two standards in this country," Hegseth concluded. Watch: So far, Megyn Kellys a drag on NBCs Today show After several poorly reviewed interviews and surprisingly low ratings, celebrities are reportedly beginning to blacklist new NBC host Megyn Kelly. Over the weekend, Variety reported that publicists were telling their celebrity clients to avoid the third hour of the Today show, rebranded as Megyn Kelly Today since last month when the former Fox News host launched her daily morning show. "I'm not booking anyone on her show," one high-powered publicist "with a roster of big names" told Variety. "I literally haven't pitched anyone even from right out the gate. The buzz that is out there is so bad." NBC counters that Kelly has many celebrities, including Alec Baldwin and actress Goldie Hawn, already lined up for her show. Poor buzz isn't the only problem for Kelly. Last week, Page Six reported that ratings have dropped 32 percent since she took over, causing a drag on the entire Today franchise. The hour following Kelly's show, hosted by Kathy Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb, is reportedly down 26 percent. "Too many people are tuning out NBC. Hoda and Kathie Lee had been a bright spot in the mornings. People are alarmed," a source told the New York Post. The problems have stemmed from the network's head-scratching decision to rebrand Kelly, a fiery opinion-maker and sharp interviewer at Fox News, into what she describes as the nonpolitical host of "an uplifting show" in front of a studio audience. "Whereas Kelly's job once called for her to bludgeon the appropriate people generally liberals at the right time, her new charge is to be relatable, likable, vivacious, etc.," the Washington Post's Erik Wemple wrote, pointing to the disconnect. FCC official calls out Trumps media attacks A top Federal Communications Commission official denounced President Trump's attacks on the media Sunday, saying broadcast licenses wouldn't be revoked over his dissatisfaction with their coverage. "I think it's essential that the FCC and all that it does is careful to abide by the First Amendment when it engages in any kind of policies involving broadcast licensees," Jessica Rosenworcel, one of five FCC commissioners, told CNN's Brian Stelter on Reliable Sources. Rosenworcel, appointed to the commission by President Barack Obama and brought back by Trump, called on her colleagues to publicly denounce the president's repeated attacks against media outlets reporting news unfavorable to his administration, which he often dubs "fake news." "History won't be kind to silence," Rosenworcel said. "I think it's important for all the commissioners to make clear that they support the First Amendment and that the agency will not revoke a broadcast license simply because the president is dissatisfied with the licensee's coverage." Rosenworcel's comments follow statements Trump made after NBC News reported that Secretary of State Rex Tillerson called him a "moron" during a meeting in July at the Pentagon. NBC News has staunchly backed its reporting. NBC News correspondent and MSNBC anchor Stephanie Ruhle, one of four reporters who worked on the original Tillerson story, has taken to MSNBC several times to defend the facts of her report. She also went after Trump, specifically after he complained that the network didn't verify its report with him. "Sir, we didn't need you to verify that he called you a 'moron,' " Ruhle said. "He did it behind your back." A 30-year-old Wilmington woman has been charged with drowning her infant son and the baby's 5-year-old half-brother, officials said Tuesday. Police summoned to the woman's apartment Monday morning found the children dead in the tub and a strong smell of gas in the air, prompting a temporary evacuation of the building. They took Kula Pelima into custody and after questioning charged her with two counts of first degree murder, Chief of Police Robert Tracy said at a news conference, adding she confessed. The boys were identified as Solomen Eppell, 4 months old, and Alex Eppell, 5. Tracy said police notified the boy's father, Victor Eppell, at detention center in York, Pa., where he has been held after being taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on Oct. 6. Tracy said Pelima, a Liberian native, had called police at 3:45 a.m. Monday, expressing concern about her immigration status. An officer who went to the address to reassure the woman she was not in trouble saw the 5-year-old and reported seeing nothing wrong or alarming. When police were called again to the apartment around 8:30 a.m., the children were dead. Police have not been able to locate the 5-year-old boy's biological mother, the chief said. In a tragically similar case, an Atlanta woman was arrested Friday after her two toddlers were found dead in their home. Investigators allege that Lamora Williams, 24, put her sons, ages 1 and 2, in the oven and turned it on, the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports. An unidentified man, one of several supporters of Mohammed Jabateh, holds a sign Tuesday outside the federal courthouse in Philadelphia. A jury is deliberating the fate of Jabateh, a Delaware County man accused of hiding his past as the Liberian warlord Jungle Jabbah to gain entry into the United States. Read more The case against a Delaware County man accused of hiding his alleged past as a Liberian warlord was built on "tall tales," scant evidence, and lies, his lawyer said Tuesday in his final pitch to the federal jury that will decide his client's fate. Mohammed Jabateh's accusers, defense lawyer Gregory Pagano said, were so desperate for anyone to blame for atrocities committed during the civil war that roiled their West African nation two decades ago that they framed an innocent man. "These are tall tales of enemies settling old scores not because they had personal experiences with him but because of what group he's identified with," Pagano said. "There is no greater motive than revenge." But prosecutors who say Jabateh committed acts of unspeakable violence and cruelty on civilians under the nom de guerre "Jungle Jabbah," only to escape to the United States unpunished shot back. "Revenge is sweet," said Assistant U.S. Attorney Linwood C. Wright. "But maybe justice is sweeter." That war of words concluded the unusual trial that has played out in a federal courtroom in Philadelphia over eight days as closely followed here in the West African hair salons and groceries that line Woodland Avenue as it is an ocean away in Liberia's capital of Monrovia. The jury of eight women and four men spent less than an hour deliberating Tuesday as demonstrators, bearing signs with hand-scrawled messages such as "Free Jabbah! He's a victim," gathered outside the federal courthouse in Philadelphia in anticipation of a verdict. Jurors are expected to continue deliberating Wednesday. Jabateh a 51-year-old East Lansdowne father who owns an international shipping business is accused of lying about his wartime experience in interviews with U.S. immigration agents and on forms he filled out while applying for political asylum in the United States in the late 1990s. But his trial, which included wrenching testimony from 17 Liberian war-crime victims implicating Jabateh in unfathomable crimes ranging from mass murder and rape to cannibalism and enslavement, has taken on totemic status for those who survived the civil war. More than 250,000 people died during the bloody, multi-factioned conflict, and reports of atrocities committed by all sides are well-documented. Yet Jabateh is only the second person tried anywhere in the world for wartime conduct in Liberia. That broader sense of unpaid debts hung over the trial's closing arguments Tuesday. "This is not about some political war that's still going on in Liberia some war whose wounds are still bleeding," Pagano said. For his own part, Jabateh has never denied his involvement as a commander within the rebel group United Liberation Movement of Liberia (ULIMO) or that he used the nickname "Jungle Jabbah" during the war. He has consistently maintained that he did not commit any of the wartime acts of which he is accused. He says he spent much of the war working security at Liberia's executive mansion for the country's equivalent of the U.S. Secret Service and that he, too, suffered torture and persecution doled out by the war's eventual victor, the regime of Liberia's future president Charles Taylor. Pagano urged jurors to consider the role of international justice groups in locating most of the government's witnesses, and to question how many of those who testified against Jabateh may have been motivated by the still-lingering ethnic animosities that drove the conflict. But prosecutors scoffed at those arguments, reminding the panel about the men and women from whom they heard directly throughout the trial: The woman who said she'd been turned into a 13-year-old sex slave and raped for weeks before she managed to escape. The backcountry farmer allegedly drawn into slavery in rebel controlled diamond mines. The village chieftain's wife allegedly forced to listen to her husband's death cries, only to be ordered later to cook up the man's heart for Jabateh's soldiers to eat. Wright, the prosecutor, quoted Emma Lazarus, whose ode to America as a safe harbor for immigrants is inscribed on the Statue of Liberty. "What that [statue] doesn't say is: Give me your war criminals, your human rights violators, your persecutors yearning for safe haven from their heinous acts," he said. "The reality is, there are just some people that are just not supposed to be in this great nation of ours." Former Vice President Joe Biden, left, and Ohio Gov. John Kasich as they participate in a discussion on bridging political and partisan divides at the University of Delaware Tuesday. Read more NEWARK, Del. The setting: the campus of the University of Delaware. The lesson: How to bridge the partisan divide. The professors: two guys with similar blue-collar Pennsylvania backgrounds whose presidential stock has risen in the era of Trump toxicity former Vice President Joe Biden and Ohio Gov. John Kasich. They disagreed Tuesday on the question of free speech on campus. Biden, a Democrat who hails from Scranton, told the students here it is "simply wrong" when conservative speeches get shut down on campuses such as the University of California-Berkeley. "We hurt ourselves badly when we don't allow the speech to take place," he said. "If your idea is big enough, it should be able to compete." Kasich, a Republican who grew up outside of Pittsburgh, disagreed, saying he supported the president of Ohio State University in refusing to allow a recent event that he said would have featured "hate speech." "We're not talking about people who have diverse ideas," Kasich said. "We're talking about people who are there to " As he trailed off, Biden offered "to incite?" "Exactly," Kasich replied. Both men agreed that partisan rancor is at an unacceptable level. They took turns dating it to the rise of Newt Gingrich as speaker of the U.S. House, the impeachment of then-President Bill Clinton and, more recently, a congressman yelling "You lie!" during President Obama's 2009 State of The Union address. And they agreed that economic uncertainty was a central factor in the 2016 presidential race, creating a result that worsened the problem. Biden turned his ire on President Trump's approach to governing since then while Kasich, who did note his refusal to endorse Trump after the GOP primaries, lamented American culture gone awry. "It going to sound trite but leadership matters," said Biden, who said a European foreign minister he didn't identify the country compared Trump to "Il Duce," the Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini. "No joke! No joke," Biden exclaimed when the audience burst out in laughter. "That's what people are thinking." Kasich rattled off corporate beaches of trust, from Equifax's data breach to Wells Fargo's banking scandal. He also made a veiled reference to the film producer Harvey Weinstein's sexual harassment imbroglio, and cited Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliot's appeal of a suspension due to allegations of domestic violence. "As I look across our culture, I begin to wonder, have we lost our way," Kasich said. The advice both men offered the students could be distilled to this: Listen to people you don't agree with and consider how they think. One subject that didn't come up: the 2020 presidential election. Kasich, speaking on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday, dodged when asked if he would be a candidate for president in three years. Biden in June announced a new political action committee, American Possibilities, refreshing talk of the White House ambitions he set aside in 2016. He didn't address the topic Tuesday. The men were not available to the media. Tuesday's discussion was promoted by the PAC, Kasich for America, that the Ohio governor used in his 2016 run for president. And it was hosted by the University of Delaware's new Biden Institute, another venture that prompted speculation about the former vice president's 2020 ambitions. Editors Note: This story was corrected to reflect the university Gov. John Kasich referred to in a discussion of hate speech was Ohio State University, not Ohio University. Bettina Rodriguez Aguilera said the encounters began when she was young and happened several times throughout her life. She saw three beings two women and a man, she said. They were tall, full-figured and blond. They wore robes, spoke telepathically and were in a round spaceship. Rodriguez Aguilera described her experiences with extraterrestrials in old interviews unearthed by the Miami Herald as the onetime council member from Doral, Florida, vies for a seat in Congress. Several years before the 59-year-old announced her candidacy to replace Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, she appeared on Spanish television programs and talked in great detail about her experiences with aliens. In one video that was uploaded to YouTube long before it was highlighted by the Herald, Rodriguez Aguilera said she saw the round spaceship for the first time when she was 7, after her parents asked her to go outside their home. She boarded the spaceship, she said, and saw round seats. After the vessel took off, she said, aliens explained to her what they planned to do. "God is a universal energy, not a person," the aliens told her, according to Rodriguez Aguilera. "It's in everything. God talks to people and they understand it in different ways, but there's only one religion." In another interview, she said the beings, with their arms wide open, reminded her of Jesus Christ, and that she saw them again during her teenage years. She also claimed that the center of energy is in Africa; that 30,000 skulls different from human skulls are in a subterranean cave in the island of Malta in the Mediterranean; and that Coral Castle, a limestone structure in South Florida, is an ancient pyramid. The aliens talked about Isis, Rodriguez Aguilera said, though she did not elaborate. Isis is the name of an Egyptian goddess. (It's also an acronym for the Islamic State militant group that had not existed at the time of Rodriguez Aguilera's interview.) Ros-Lehtinen, whom Rodriguez Aguilera hopes to replace, represents much of Miami and Miami Beach. Ros-Lehtinen, a moderate Republican and the first Hispanic woman and Cuban American elected to Congress, announced in April that she is retiring, giving Democrats a chance to flip a seat in a district that Hillary Clinton carried in November. Rodriguez Aguilera was not immediately available for an interview Monday. But according to the Miami Herald, she skirted questions about her experiences with extraterrestrials and responded with this statement: "For years people, including Presidents like Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter and astronauts have publicly claimed to have seen unidentified flying objects and scientists like Stephen Hawking and institutions like the Vatican have stated that there are billions of galaxies in the universe and we are probably not alone. I personally am a Christian and have a strong belief in God, I join the majority of Americans who believe that there must be intelligent life in the billions of planets and galaxies in the universe. The former Doral City Council member announced her intention to run in August. "I had several people from the community call me and ask me to consider running," she told the Herald. "I have been involved in community activism, human rights, economic development and international affairs all my life. I feel that this is a good fit for me." Rick Yabor, a Miami lawyer and political commentator, told The Washington Post that Rodriguez Aguilera isn't likely to win especially in light of revelations about her previous claims. "Why Bettina jumped in that race, I don't know . . . her views are not very mainstream," Yabor said, referring to Rodriguez Aguilera's stories about aliens. "There's going to be people that believe her, and there's going to be people that think she's wacky." And anyway, Yabor said, the district leaned Democratic in last year's election. There are at least a dozen candidates vying to replace Ros-Lehtinen, the majority of them Democrats. Two of Rodriguez Aguilera's Republican primary opponents, Bruno Barreiro and Raquel Regalado, are better known in Miami-Dade County than she is, Yabor said. Barreiro has been a county commissioner for nearly 20 years. Regalado is the daughter of Miami Mayor Tomas Pedro Regalado and is a former school board member in the county. And they have raised significantly more money than Rodriguez Aguilera. Barreiro has raised about $218,100, according to federal campaign records. Regalado is a distant second, with $15,050. Rodriguez Aguilera has raised less than $5,000. Rodriguez Aguilera was a member of the Doral City Council from 2012 to 2014. The city's mayor nominated her to replace the vice mayor in 2013. Before that, she was the city's economic development coordinator for two years. Her campaign website describes her as an "entrepreneur, educator and community leader" with "over 30 years of experience in the private and public sectors." In 2015, Miami Dade College launched its Women's Institute, which offered a women's studies program developed in partnership with Rodriguez Aguilera, the South Florida Times reported. Rodriguez Aguilera's daughter, Bettina Inclan Agen, is a former director of Hispanic outreach for the Republican National Committee. Agen is married to Jarrod Agen, Vice President Mike Pence's deputy chief of staff and communications director. KABUL, Afghanistan A string of Taliban attacks on Afghan security units killed more than 40 people, officials said Tuesday, in another show of force by the militants amid a renewed effort seeking possible peace talks. The attacks, which began late Monday, underscored the Taliban resilience and ability to strike heavily protected sites such as military bases. They also raised questions about any potential Taliban commitment to open dialogue with the Afghan government and its allies after 16 years of conflict. In Oman, U.S. officials met with delegations from China, Pakistani and Afghanistan to try to revive outreach seeking a peace formula with the Taliban. Previous attempts to open talks with the Taliban have stalled, most recently last year after former Taliban leader Akhtar Muhammad Mansour was killed in a U.S. drone strike. On Tuesday, Taliban forces stormed a police compound south of Kabul, killing at least 15 people, including a local police chief, in a gun battle that lasted hours, officials said. The commando-style raid in Gardez, about 80 miles south of Kabul, also injured about 100 people after two car bombs exploded outside a facility that serves as a command center for local police and a main training site for police recruits. Taliban fighters then stormed the facility, taking over towers and firing indiscriminately, causing casualties among police and civilians who happened to be there on government business, officials said. Najib Danesh, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry, said local police chief Toryalai Abadani was among those killed. Earlier, a similar attack in the neighboring Ghazni province killed at least 25 government security officers. A suicide bomber drove a vehicle into a government compound, followed by gunmen who entered the site. At least 48 people were also wounded, Gen. Murad Ali Murad, a deputy interior minister, told reporters. Afghan authorities said a total of at least 43 people were killed in the spate of Taliban violence that included smaller attacks. Pakistan which recently won some favor from the Trump administration after the rescue of American Caitlan Coleman and her family, held by the Taliban-linked Haqqani Network for five years was quick to condemn the attack in Gardez. "Pakistan reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all forms and manifestations and reaffirms its commitment for continued efforts and cooperation for eliminating this menace," the country's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The attacks followed several attempted suicide bombings in Kabul during recent weeks. The Afghan intelligence agency said Tuesday that it recently thwarted a Taliban plot to attack several spots in the city, including military facilities, army convoys and crowded areas. The agency arrested two men Monday who were traveling in a car full of explosives. Over the weekend, a driver of a truck with three tons of explosives was also arrested. Taliban fighters and other militants, including the Islamic State, have struck bases used by security forces in the past. In April, Taliban insurgents dressed in army uniforms surged into an army facility in the northern Balkh province, killing dozens of soldiers. Faculty and staff of West Chester University on strike last fall. Read more After a strike last fall, faculty at Pennsylvania's 14 state universities have reached a tentative agreement on a new one-year contract eight months before the old pact is set to expire. "After our previous contract negotiations, we were determined to improve the overall negotiations process, and I am happy to report that our communication with the system vastly improved with these talks," said Kenneth M. Mash, president of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF). Mash said both sides recognized the importance of having labor peace while in the middle of a search for a new system chancellor. Frank T. Brogan left the job this summer. The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education's 5,500 faculty went on strike for three days last October after protracted negotiations failed to yield an agreement. If approved by the state's board of governors and ratified by faculty, the new tentative agreement will run through June 30, 2019. (The current pact is set to expire in June 2018.) No details will be released until the contract is approved, both sides said, declining to comment on whether the pact includes salary increases. Mash said he hopes the necessary approvals will be completed by December. "We have been committed to working together to achieve a new agreement in a collaborative manner," State System Interim Chancellor Karen M. Whitney said in a statement. "As we move toward a positive conclusion for this contract, I'm hopeful it will lead to an even more meaningful relationship based on mutual respect and trust." The state system enrolls more than 100,000 students at 14 universities including West Chester, Cheyney, Bloomsburg, California, Clarion, East Stroudsburg, Edinboro, Indiana, Kutztown, Lock Haven, Mansfield, Millersville, Shippensburg, and Slippery Rock. The contract does not affect Pennsylvania State, Temple or Lincoln Universities, or the University of Pittsburgh, which are not part of the state system. Rep. Tom Marino (R-Pa.), nominee for White House drug czar is under scrutiny after a news investigation found the lawmaker helped steer legislation that made it harder for the government to take some enforcement actions against giant drug companies. Tom Marino participates in the House GOP leadership press conference after the House Republican Conference meeting in the Capitol on Tuesday, September 27, 2016 in Washington, District of Columbia, U.S. (Bill Clark/Congressional Quarterly/Newscom/ZUMA Press/TNS) Read more This July, in U.S. Rep. Tom Marino's Northeastern Pennsylvania district, 51 people overdosed on a bad batch of heroin over the course of 48 hours. Lycoming and Tioga Counties, where the overdoses hit, are like so many other rural communities in the country: increasingly ravaged by an opioid addiction epidemic fueled by the overprescription of pain pills. In Wellsboro, Pa. the Tioga County seat, in the middle of the Republican congressman's district overdose patients filled half of the 16 beds in the local emergency room. Marino, a favorite of President Trump's and a seeming lock to head the Office of National Drug Control Policy, withdrew his name from consideration Tuesday, after the publication of an explosive report by the Washington Post and 60 Minutes about a little-noticed law passed last year that severely limits the Drug Enforcement Administration's ability to go after the drug manufacturers that supply pill mills the driving force behind the opioid epidemic. "We had people coming back 12 hours later, having taken the same dose," Toni Burtch, an RN at Wellsboro hospital told the Inquirer and Daily News in July. She talked about the frustration and sadness she felt during the 17-hour shift she worked that weekend, about watching people in Tioga follow the now-familiar path of opioid addiction: pills, then heroin and, if they're lucky, recovery instead of an overdose in that tiny ER. The law now under scrutiny written by Marino, who received $92,500 in campaign contributions from the pharmaceutical industry over the last four years, the Post reported was marketed as a way to ensure pain patients get their medications without interruption. But, the report found, it also makes it nearly impossible for the DEA to suspend large, suspicious shipments of opioid medications to pharmacies and doctor's offices. And as deaths from pill and heroin overdoses skyrocket Philadelphia is on track to see 1,200 overdoses this year the DEA has issued fewer and fewer suspension orders against drug companies. In a statement issued Tuesday night, Marino said he withdrew his name "to remove the distraction my nomination has created." He also defended the legislation, saying it assured that people "who genuinely needed access to certain medications were able to do so." Also, he called the news reports false and unfair. "The news media have left behind any concept of balanced reporting and credited conspiracy theories from individuals seeking to avert blame from their own failures to address the opioid crisis that proliferated during their tenure," Marino said in his statement. Erick Coolidge, a Tioga County county commissioner, dairy farmer, and former hospital administrator, said Monday that his county is working hard to get addicted people into treatment but he wishes the drug companies whose pills fueled the epidemic would pony up some money for it. "That's just this farmer's opinion," he said. "But it's a responsibility of us all, to try to understand it, and more importantly try to address it. If we don't, we'll all lose this battle." He doesn't know too much about the Marino bill which puts him in the same category as most of the country and, apparently, President Barack Obama, who signed the bill into law after it moved through Congress with remarkably little opposition in 2016. But, if it's as harmful as the Post's report suggests, Coolidge said, "it's unfortunate that that law was presented by the candidate that's being considered for the drug czar." Another local lawmaker, Chester County Rep. Ryan Costello (R., Pa.), co-sponsored a version of the bill. Last April, his website touted his participation in a bipartisan task force to combat the opioid epidemic, and his most recent press release, sent last week, included his testimony that a major issue in his district was the cost of treatment for heroin addiction. Costello noted in a statement that the legislation passed the House and Senate unanimously and was signed into law by Obama, with no opposition from the DEA. He said the legislation was intended to clarify the agency's enforcement standards and help patients get their medicine. "If the purpose of the law is now not being realized, then we need to fix it," Costello said. "I am in the process of investigating and evaluating this as we speak." In Philadelphia on Tuesday, the CEO of one of the drug companies mentioned in the report, the Chesterbrook-based AmerisourceBergen, was doing damage control, insisting that the industry is one of the most heavily regulated in the country. The company paid West Virginia $35 million in a lawsuit last year over its opioid shipments there. By Tuesday afternoon, lawmakers were scrambling to repeal the law, which passed by unanimous consent last year. The repeal effort in the House of Representatives was spearheaded by Langhorne Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R., Pa.) and Rep. Kyrsten Sinema (D., Ariz.). Sen. Claire McCaskill (D., Mo.) had introduced a similar bill in the Senate. "This legislation is about righting a wrong and upholding our commitment to keep our constituents safe," Fitzpatrick said in a press release. Diamond the dog was abandoned on an East Falls stoop with this pizza and note Sunday. Read more Diamond was in the rough. Whatever humans had taken in the pit bull mix as part of their pack weren't able or willing to keep up their end of the deal. So Sunday afternoon, they tied Diamond by her leash to the railing of a home in East Falls, just 30 feet from the train station on the 3600 block of Midvale Avenue. They left her with three slices of pizza in a plastic bag and put a note under the front door mat that read: "Please take me home. I'm a girl named Diamond. We can no longer keep her in our home. Thank you." Then, they left. Around 2 p.m., Justin Hanley opened his living-room blinds to let in some fresh air. That's when he noticed Diamond tied to his steps. He went out and found the note and pizza, too. "Clearly, if somebody is feeding a dog pizza they weren't equipped to handle a dog in the first place," Hanley, 34, said. Hanley and his wife took Diamond to their back patio. "She was skittish at first, but super sweet," he said. But with two young children, ages 2 years and 5 months, and a 3-year-old pug-and-Jack Russell mix named Beefy, the family couldn't take on another dog. So Hanley went to the East Falls Rant Your A$$ Off community Facebook group, which he's been a member of for two years, and posted photos of Diamond with a caption that read: "Need advice/help. Somebody tied up their dog and abandoned her on my front step, with a note (attached) and a bag of pizza. Who handles abandoned/lost dogs? spca?? This is heartbreaking stuff." The responses more than 150 comments and messages began flooding in. By 5:30 p.m., Diamond's tale got a happy ending and she got a new home with the friend of a member of the Facebook group who responded to Hanley's post. "It definitely restored my faith in humanity," he said. In East Falls, dog owners tend to know other pet owners by their four-legged friends' names, instead of the person's own, Hanley said. Nobody in the neighborhood recognized the abandoned puppy, but the fact that so many were willing to help her is a testament to the community, he said. While the Facebook page's name suggests it's a place to spew rants, Hanley said, the group is much more than that. "The feedback on the page is almost instantaneous, whether you're connecting a lost pet with an owner, reporting suspicious activity or lending a helping hand," Hanley said. "It has a neat community feel. The rants are few and far between, but when there are rants, they are good." What you should do if you find an abandoned animal Gillian Kocher, spokeswoman for the Pennsylvania SPCA, urged people to call the PSPCA's animal cruelty hotline at 866-601-7722 if they find an abandoned animal. "Our Humane Law Enforcement officers can respond to the call, or provide additional insight as to what the next steps are," she said. "We would recommend not taking the animal as a Good Samaritan, but rather allowing our officers to do their job in responding and investigating the case." Kocher said animal abandonment is a crime and if found, the owners will face penalties, which vary depending on the condition of the animal. Black adults in Pennsylvania were eight times more likely than white adults to be arrested for marijuana possession in 2016, according to an analysis released Monday by the American Civil Liberties Union. Compared with 2010, the study showed a substantial overall increase in marijuana possession arrests even as the state legalizes medical marijuana, and national sentiment has moved toward acceptance of the drug. The disparity between arrests of black and white people also rose; it was 5.7-to-1 in 2011. Those figures did not include Philadelphia, where a decriminalization measure was signed in 2014, and arrests were down 88 percent last year, compared with 2010. Even in the city, however, three times as many black adults were arrested as white. "The simple fact to me is when you leave things up to being subjective, racial bias will prevail. I think these numbers show exactly that," said State Rep. Jordan Harris (D., Phila), a proponent of marijuana legalization, speaking at a Harrisburg news conference organized by the ACLU Monday. The study, Harris and other advocates say, bolsters the argument for legalizing marijuana as a means to end the incarceration and the fining of people for pot offenses that they argue disproportionately affect people of color. Plus, taxpayers have shelled out more than $225 million since 2010 for marijuana enforcement, the study said. Data shows that marijuana use is essentially equal across races. Yet in Bucks County in 2016, 1,400 black adults were arrested for marijuana possession per 100,000 compared with 200 white adults per 100,000. In Montgomery County, the figures were 1,200 black adults compared to fewer than 200 white adults per 100,000. "The time is out for a war on drugs around marijuana that has been nothing but a war on people," Harris said. "You have folks who are being arrested for possession who are sitting in our county jail systems for a few days; they're losing their jobs; they're gaining criminal records, which then prevent them from becoming gainfully employed. Enough is enough." "Legalizing something harmful never removes the harm," said state Sen. Matt Baker (R., Tioga). In its report, the ACLU suggests that legalization is the only solution to ending the disproportionate crackdown on pot eliminating "unnecessary jail time, fines, and license suspensions related to marijuana convictions" that can affect student loans, jobs, child custody battles, and immigration proceedings, the study said. Opponents in Harrisburg of legalization, including medical marijuana legalization, have said it is a gateway drug or that it is dangerous. A September poll of Pennsylvanians showed 59 percent in favor of legalization. But even as Pennsylvania's new medical grower-processors begin to get their operations off the ground they are required to start producing medical marijuana by the end of December pot busts are far from a thing of the past. Pot possession arrests increased in 50 of the state's 67 counties between 2010 and 2016, the ACLU study said. More than eight of 10 of those arrests were for possession alone; arrests for marijuana sales decreased. "It's surprising that as Pennsylvanians become more accepting of marijuana that possession arrests are actually going up. Certainly there are better ways for law enforcement to spend their time," said Andrew Hoover, legislative director for ACLU of Pennsylvania. In 2010, the Pennsylvania State Police arrested 2,221 people for possession. In 2016, officers made 4,612 arrests. A spokesman for the state police said officers enforce the law as it is written and follow internal protocol that prohibits bias-based policing, along with receiving education about racial profiling awareness and prevention. "An important part of our mission is to work to eliminate illegal drugs from our state," wrote spokesman Ryan Tarkowski in an email to The Inquirer and Daily News. "We have the resources in place to do so, so personnel are not stretched thin due to making arrests for marijuana possession." The racial-disparity numbers in certain counties were even starker than the statewide figures. Black adults were 11 times more likely to be arrested for possession in Lawrence County and 16.6 times more likely in Indiana County. Recreational marijuana is legal in eight states, while medical pot is allowed in 29 and in Washington D.C. A bill currently in the Pennsylvania House would make possession of a small amount of marijuana a summary offense, lower the maximum fine from $500 to $100, and eliminate imprisonment. Measures such as that one represent "a positive incremental step," Hoover said, but the ACLU advocates for full legalization. Barring that, he said, any other changes would have to occur in individual police stations. "Short of a change in state law, that's a city-by-city, town-by-town discussion that has to be had at the local level," he said. Arguments for full legalization have gained steam as medical marijuana has been approved in more than half of U.S. states. In August, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey even introduced a bill in Congress to legalize marijuana federally. "We have to change the mindset on who's actually smoked marijuana," Harris said. "I hate to break it to you, but from preschool teachers to presidents, even the ones who didn't inhale, people are smoking marijuana." FILE In this Dec. 6, 2016, file photo, Richard Spencer, who leads a movement that mixes racism, white nationalism and populism, speaks at the Texas A&M University campus in College Station, Texas. Read more WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. Florida Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency Monday in anticipation of a speech by white nationalist Richard Spencer at the University of Florida. Scott, a Republican, warned in an executive order that a "threat of a potential emergency is imminent" in Alachua County, where the public university is located. The order was intended to help with law enforcement agencies' response to rallies planned for Thursday, the governor said in a news release. University of Florida officials said Monday afternoon that the order was not made in response to any specific heightened threat. Spencer led hundreds of torch-bearing white supremacists, white nationalists and others on a march chanting, "You will not replace us" and "Jews will not replace us," at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville in August. The group fought briefly with counterprotesters, and violence worsened the following day when a man drove a car into a crowd of people protesting a planned "Unite the Right" rally, killing a woman and injuring others. A state of emergency was declared in Virginia after that violence. In the days afterward, the University of Florida told Spencer he could not hold an event he had planned on campus. After his supporters and a lawyer questioned that decision on First Amendment grounds, the university allowed Spencer to schedule his speech and question-and-answer session for Thursday. University officials have done extensive planning for the event and said they intend to spend $500,000 on security. The governor's executive order will allow local law enforcement officials to work with state and other agencies. Scott is also activating the Florida National Guard to help if needed. "This worries me. I don't get it," Spencer said about Scott's order. "I hope he's doing this with good intentions." He said the order won't change his plans. "I'm going to play ball," Spencer said. "My people are in constant contact with security. We're moving forward in good faith." Spencer said his followers won't instigate violence. If altercations occur, he said, it will be because somebody else starts it. "It's these antifa groups," Spencer said, referring to the anti-fascist movement. "They're thugs. Nasty, nasty people." The University of Virginia was not well prepared for the march through its campus, according to a report released by the school last month. Scott said in a statement that he has been in constant contact with the Alachua County sheriff, who requested the order to ensure county and local law enforcement agencies have every available resource. The governor called it an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and Gainesville are prepared and that safety is maintained. "We live in a country where everyone has the right to voice their opinion," Scott said. "However, we have zero tolerance for violence, and public safety is always our number one priority." Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell said she had sought the declaration because of uncertainty surrounding what law enforcement will encounter. The sheriff said she and the governor spoke several times over the weekend. "I pitched it to him and that it would help us a great deal to have that latitude," Darnell said. That includes allowing her to purchase more equipment quickly. Darnell said she wants to get more radios so all of the agencies involved from campus police to the Florida National Guard can communicate. "We have looked at what happened in Charlottesville and Berkeley," Darnell said, referring to events in Virginia and at the University of California at Berkeley. "We're not being alarmist. But we want to be prepared. " Vice President Mike Pence was the focus of an in-depth article in the New Yorker. Read more President Donald Trump and his administration are beset by controversies and scandals that refuse to go away. His list of critics is growing. Some of his allies are abandoning him. Others are calling for his impeachment. Even former White House chief strategist and Trump whisperer Steve Bannon has, according to Vanity Fair, told people he thinks Trump has a mere 30 percent chance of completing his term. With all that on the table, the New Yorker's Jane Mayer took a deep look at the political and financial forces behind Vice President Mike Pence, the man who would succeed Trump in the event of his ouster. In a profile published Monday titled "The Danger of President Pence," Mayer reported on the outsize influence the vice president and his network of far-right megadonors particularly the billionaire industrialist Koch brothers have had on Trump's agenda since Pence became his running mate. The story contains a number of revelations culled from on-the-record interviews with Bannon and others in Trump's orbit, as well as from unnamed officials who offered insights into the relationship between Trump and Pence. Here are three highlights: Trump has mocked Pences religious beliefs and once joked that Pence wanted to hang gay people Pence is an evangelical Christian who has fiercely campaigned against LGBT rights and abortion. He hosts a Bible study group at the White House. He abides by the so-called Billy Graham rule, refusing to dine alone with another woman or attend an event where alcohol is served unless his wife is with him. Trump, who doesn't share Pence's hard-line stances, has on more than one occasion mocked the vice president's religiosity and his socially conservative views, according to Mayer's story. Citing anonymous sources, she describes a meeting where Trump ribbed Pence for trying to outlaw abortion and joked that Pence wanted to "hang" gay people: "Two sources also recalled Trump needling Pence about his views on abortion and homosexuality. During a meeting with a legal scholar, Trump belittled Pence's determination to overturn Roe v. Wade. The legal scholar had said that, if the Supreme Court did so, many states would likely legalize abortion on their own. "You see?" Trump asked Pence. "You've wasted all this time and energy on it, and it's not going to end abortion anyway." When the conversation turned to gay rights, Trump motioned toward Pence and joked, "Don't ask that guy he wants to hang them all!" Mayer also writes that Trump would ask White House visitors derisively, "Did Mike make you pray?" Quoting Bannon, the story suggests it was Trump's way of letting "Pence know who's boss." Chris Christie warned the president about Michael Flynn. Pence was silent and it may have hurt the White House Before Republican New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was unceremoniously replaced by Pence as head of Trump's transition team, Christie warned Trump not to give a top administration job to retired general Michael Flynn, saying he was too risky, according to the New Yorker story. Mayer describes a tense standoff between Christie and Ivanka Trump during a Nov. 11 transition meeting. The president's daughter had unexpectedly invited Flynn and one of his allies to the meeting, and Christie seemed irked: " 'Gentlemen, can I help you?' Christie asked. Ivanka Trump, who was a member of the transition team's executive council, announced that she had invited them. Christie tried to reclaim control of the meeting, but Ivanka took over. Praising Flynn's 'amazing loyalty to my father,' she turned to him and asked, 'General, what job do you want?' A participant at the meeting said, 'It was like Princess Ivanka had laid the sword on Flynn's shoulders and said, 'Rise and go forth.' " Within hours, Christie was dismissed. When Pence replaced him, Mayer writes, "the door of the White House was opened to Flynn," who was named national security adviser days later. Pence seems not to have objected to Flynn taking the highly sensitive position, even after Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., wrote him a letter explaining how Flynn had failed to disclose his lobbying work on behalf of Turkish interests, according to the story. Mayer notes that it probably would have hurt Pence to challenge Trump and his family members on Flynn. But what if Pence had stopped him? Mayer says Trump might not be facing a massive special counsel investigation if that were the case. In February, after less than a month on the job, Flynn admitted that he misled Pence about conversations he had with the Russian ambassador. He was fired on Feb. 13. A few months later, as the probe into the Trump campaign's ties to Russia was widening, Trump fired James Comey, the FBI director who launched the investigation. Bannon worries about a Pence presidency: Im concerned hed be a President that the Kochs would own Mayer's story contains a few head-turning quotes from Bannon, who returned to his post as executive chairman of Breitbart News after being dismissed by Trump in August. The most explosive came in a section about Pence's deep connection to the Koch brothers, who are known for pouring billions of dollars into conservative causes and political campaigns. Mayer reports that Pence's relationship with the Koch-funded advocacy group Americans for Prosperity and other conservative organizations played a key role in his political trajectory. Bannon told Mayer he was alarmed about Pence replacing Trump in the Oval Office. "I'm concerned he'd be a President that the Kochs would own," he is quoted as saying. Others gave Mayer similar assessments, including Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., who argued that if Pence became president "the government would be run by the Koch brothers period." Bannon also discussed how Pence helped Trump bring together Bannon's nationalist faction and the conservative wing of the Republican establishment. Mayer goes on to note that once Pence came on board, some of the Kochs' fellow billionaires began to throw their weight behind Trump. Pence is "the outreach guy, the connective tissue," Bannon said. "Without Pence, you don't win." Rep. Tom Marino (R-Pa.), nominee for White House drug czar is under scrutiny after a news investigation found the lawmaker helped steer legislation that made it harder for the government to take some enforcement actions against giant drug companies. Tom Marino participates in the House GOP leadership press conference after the House Republican Conference meeting in the Capitol on Tuesday, September 27, 2016 in Washington, District of Columbia, U.S. (Bill Clark/Congressional Quarterly/Newscom/ZUMA Press/TNS) Read more Good morning, friends. A lot's going on in our fair state this week! John McCain visited Philly last night and slammed President Trump's nationalistic politics, and a Pennsylvania congressman and longtime Trump supporter is in hot water over his sponsorship of a controversial drug policy law. This newsletter covers President Trump and how his policies affect greater Philadelphia. You can sign up here to get it in your inbox, for free, every week. You can send suggestions/complaints/questions my way by email or on Twitter, and if you like this newsletter, please forward it to a friend! Aubrey Whelan Today, lets talk about Tom Marino. Whats at stake Pennsylvania Rep. Tom Marino's dreams of a cabinet position, for starters. But let's back up a bit. The Washington Post and 60 Minutes published an explosive report this week about a little-noticed law, passed last year, that severely limits the Drug Enforcement Administration's ability to go after the drug manufacturers that supply pill mills the driving force behind the opioid epidemic. The bill written by Marino, who happened to get $92,500 in campaign contributions from the pharmaceutical industry over the last four years was marketed as a way to ensure pain patients to get their medications without interruption. But it makes it virtually impossible for the DEA to suspend large, suspicious shipments of opioid medications to pharmacies and doctor's offices. And as deaths from pill and heroin overdoses skyrocket, the DEA has issued fewer and fewer suspension orders against drug companies. The local angle I visited Marino's Northeastern Pennsylvania district this summer on a reporting trip a week after the area was slammed with 51 overdoses in 48 hours after someone sold a bad batch of heroin. In little Wellsboro, Pa. the Tioga County seat, smack in the middle of Marino's district 12 of the 16 beds at the local emergency room were filled with overdose victims. "We had people coming back 12 hours later, having taken the same dose," Toni Burtch, an RN there, told me. She talked about the frustration and sadness she felt during the 17-hour shift she worked that weekend, about watching people in her hometown follow the now-familiar path of opioid addiction: pills, then heroin and, if they're lucky, recovery instead of an overdose in that tiny ER. Erick Coolidge, a Tioga County county commissioner and a former hospital administrator, told me Monday that his county is working hard to get people addicted to heroin into treatment but he wishes the drug companies whose pills fueled the epidemic would pony up some money for it. He doesn't know too much about the Marino bill which puts him in the same category as most of the country and, apparently, President Obama, who signed the bill into law with barely a whisper. But, if it's as harmful as the Post's report suggests, Coolidge said, "it's unfortunate that that law was presented by the candidate that's being considered for the drug czar." Well: Now he's not. Until this morning, Marino was set to head the Office of National Drug Control Policy until President Trump announced on Twitter that the "fine man and great Congressman" had withdrawn his name from consideration for the post. (By the by, he's not the only local congressman behind the bill: Rep. Ryan Costello, of Chester County, was also a co-sponsor.) Whats ahead There are other local efforts to go after the pharmaceutical industry for its role in the opioid crisis: last month, Delaware County became the first county in the state to sue drug manufacturers for the millions the county has spent on treatment for its residents. Sen. Claire McCaskill (D., Mo.) is already pushing to repeal the Marino bill. But last year, the Marino bill made it through Congress and onto Obama's desk without much of a fight at all. The Post report is a long read, and a great one it's a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the machinations of the pharmaceutical lobby and the agency tasked with enforcing our drug policy during a full-blown drug epidemic. But, most importantly, it's a chilling example of what can happen when people aren't paying attention. What theyre saying "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil." Sen. John McCain, accepting the Liberty Medal in Philly last night, blasting the politics of "half-baked, spurious nationalism" that swept President Trump into office. "If you look at President Obama and other Presidents, most of them didn't make calls, a lot of them didn't make calls." President Trump in a free-wheeling press conference (are they ever anything but?), falsely claiming that past presidents didn't call the family members of troops killed in action. "that's a f lie. to say president obama (or past presidents) didn't call the family members of soldiers KIA he's a deranged animal." Alyssa Mastromonaco, a former Obama aide, calling out Trump on Twitter. In other news President Trump, as part of an ongoing effort to dismantle the Affordable Care Act after several failed repeals, has ended cost-sharing reduction payments to insurers. In Pennsylvania, that means premiums on the ACA exchange will jump by more than 30 percent instead of the 7.6 percent projected increase. And Rob Field, a Drexel health policy professor, told me last week that the executive order Trump signed dismantling some Obamacare provisions will likely mean some consumers and companies will switch to cheaper, skimpier healthcare coverage. "To siphon people away from the exchanges into bare-bones policies that have minimal coverage it's not a replacement. It's not an improvement. It's just letting people lose their health coverage," he said. President Trump spoke about his tax plan in Harrisburg last week and your correspondent was there. The Department of Justice says Philly's sanctuary city policies violate federal law, despite the city's arguments to the contrary. The city has until next week to convince them it isn't breaking the law it's the closest Philly has come to losing federal funding over its sanctuary city status. What Im reading A long, thoughtful profile of Vice President Pence in the New Yorker, which digs up the veep's little-studied past in Indiana and reports that President Trump once joked joked! that Pence wanted to hang gay people. The New York Times takes us into Rex Tillerson's State Department, where the biggest diplomatic challenge is often dealing with Trump. The bloggers at Gothamist, bless them, have been assiduously following the case of the Philadelphia accountant who wore a MAGA hat into a New York bar, allegedly got kicked out, and is now suing the place. Now he's claiming that he was discriminated against because wearing the hat is part of his "spiritual beliefs." A non-political palate cleanser My colleague Jason Nark writes poignantly about veterans with PTSD finding solace in the Appalachian Mountains. A raccoon was spotted at PATCOs 8th and Market Street Station on Monday night. Read more A raccoon seen strolling down the steps at PATCO's 8th and Market Streets Station in Center City has been caught and released in the wilds of South Jersey. PATCO says the raccoon, who some say should be named Rocky, was caught about 1:30 a.m. Wednesday at 8th and Market by maintenance workers and police officers armed with a salami sandwich. They then took him the end of the line and released him without charges. David Bell Mislan, a political science professor and a Fulbright scholar recently returned from Japan, caught the critter on his cell phone camera about 9:30 p.m. Monday. Mislan says the bag on the steps belonged to a passenger who dropped it and the raccoon checked it out before making its way to the end of the platform and apparently into the tunnel. Alerted to the post Tuesday morning, PATCO announced it was taking action. President Trump's latest bid to undercut the Affordable Care Act is being felt in Pennsylvania; Sen. John McCain received the Liberty Medal, with presenters emphasizing his bipartisanship; and the results of the soda tax are in and they aren't so sweet. If you like what you're reading, it's free to sign up to get this newsletter in your inbox every weekday. I would love to hear your thoughts, ideas, and feedback, so please email me, tweet me @tommyrowan, or reach our social team on Facebook. Tommy Rowan READ MORE: At Liberty Medal ceremony, McCain blasts half-baked nationalism Sen. John McCain of Arizona, ailing with brain cancer, received the Liberty Medal in a ceremony at the National Constitution Center Monday night for his lifetime of service to the nation. His friend, former VP Joe Biden, presented the award. Reporter Aubrey Whelan wrote that each speaker for the evening emphasized bipartisanship, concluding with McCain's call for compromise in the Capitol and around the country. He said it was a privilege to serve "this big, boisterous, brawling, intemperate, striving, daring, beautiful, bountiful, brave, magnificent country." Then, he said, Americans need to reject nationalism "cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems." It's a worldview, he said, "as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history." READ MORE: Pa. approves drastic ACA exchange increases Reporter Harold Brubaker writes that President Trump's decision to end payments to insurers that help make health coverage affordable for millions of lower-income Americans under the Affordable Care Act blew up what would have been a year of relatively low rate increases in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance on Monday announced that it had approved average rate increases of 30.6 percent for individual plans to be sold next year on the Affordable Care Act health insurance exchange due to the loss of federal subsidies. Earlier projections showed that rates would increase 7.6 percent, in a sign that the health-insurance market for ACA plans was settling in Pennsylvania. READ MORE: Leaving the war in the woods Cindy Ross is a naturalist and writer who spent most of her life raising children on trails all over the country. She's a firm believer in the healing power of nature and her non profit for Veterans, River House PA, works with the VA hospitals taking Vets out to hike, bike, paddle, as well as Veterans in the Kutztown U. Veterans' Club. On a recent weekend, reporter Jason Nark joined Ross as she brought 75 vets to the New Ringgold Boy Scout Camp near Reading to find peace in the woods. They traveled there and talked to some of them about their experiences and what nature has been doing for them. A must read. What you need to know today READ MORE: #OurPhilly We want to see what our community looks like through your eyes. Show us the park that your family walks through every weekend with the dog, the block party in your neighborhood or the historic stretch you see every morning on your commute to work. Tag your Instagram posts or tweets with #OurPhilly and we'll pick our favorite each day to feature in this newsletter and give you a shout out to build those followers! Thats Interesting Opinions "Just as it was with the predatory mortgage loans that helped fuel the housing boom and bust, payday lending is an insidious business that preys largely on poor and working-class consumers, leaving many worse off." Our editorial board's explanation for why Our editorial board's explanation for why payday loan sharks should be arrested and tried This is beyond "Fake" or "Real" news. This is about the most important news: Local. The type of news gathered by a group of devout localities, plugged-in and power-averse. The type of new that most affects reader's directly, and much like the daily newspaper, is becoming a dying breed. In a state with such a rich journalistic tradition, dating back to Benjamin Franklin and The Pennsylvania Gazette, it's sad to see only 60 daily newspapers and a dearth of local coverage. I agree with Salena Zito: Without good local journalists, the nation's divisions deepen. President Trump is not incorrect. The truth is, Puerto Rico's inability to bounce back after Hurricane Maria ravaged their Caribbean island has been compounded by its financial handicap, having defaulted on more than $70 billion in public debt. Not to mention its significant pension-shortfall crisis.While further financial assistance is expected from the federal government, those funds would be targeted at restoring the public infrastructure, but it is unlikely to be directed toward restructuring the island's debt. But, as former City Solicitor Nelson A. Diaz and former City Finance Director G.Edward DeSeve argue, not addressing the island's debt will only exacerbate Puerto Rico's vulnerability. So the federal government, the duo contends, has a responsibility to step in. What were reading READ MORE: Your Daily Dose of | Silly Rabbits When asked about drugs at a Phoenixville mayoral forum last week, Republican nominee Dave Gautreau proposed that, if elected, he would look into getting the borough police department a cheaper alternative to pricey K9s: Drug-sniffing bunnies. Fur real. When the choreographer Alexei Ratmansky joined American Ballet Theatre as artist in residence eight years ago, the company hadnt had a house choreographer since the days of Antony Tudor. The gamble seems to have paid off handsomely. In that time Ratmansky has either made or restaged 12 ballets for the company. In 2011, the company extended his contract to 2023. Such commitments are practically unheard of at a time when top dancers and choreographers hop from company to company, continent to continent. The scale and ambition of the works Ratmansky is making for ABT is a rarity too, in a world of tight budgets, scant rehearsal time and pared-down esthetics. Set design for new Harlequinade. Courtesy ABT. But big ideas and continuity are expensive. To make such projects feasible, ABT launched The Ratmansky Project in early 2016, a fundraising campaign specifically geared to funding new or restaged Ratmansky ballets. The goal is to bring in $15 million over five years. By the time the campaign was announced last spring, it had already funded three works: Serenade after Platos Symposium, The Golden Cockerel and Whipped Cream. The latter two involve lavish designs, as will a new Harlequinade, scheduled to premiere in March. Alexei Ratmansky. Photo by Gene Schiavone, Courtesy ABT. As ABTs new executive director, Kara Medoff Barnett, points out, the cost to produce each new full-length ballet is roughly $3 million. And we want to produce a full-length Ratmansky ballet or several new one-act works each year. In the next nine months, Ratmansky will create a new ballet, Songs of Bukovina, with music by the Ukrainian-born composer Leonid Desyatnikov, for the companys fall season, and another big reconstruction, Marius Petipas 1900 commedia dellarte ballet Harlequinade. Petipa has become an important source of inspiration. I learn from the diversity of steps, the changes of mood, says Ratmansky. All the things that are so brilliantly clear in Petipas creations. Not every new Ratmansky ballet will be on the scale of Harlequinade, but, as Barnett comments, ABT is a company known for theater, for storytelling and spectacle. Why should we limit the imagination of the worlds leading ballet storyteller? Many of us take our ballet training for granted. But for dancers living in Puerto Rico, which is still reeling from the devastating affects of last months Hurricane Maria, pursuing a ballet career or simply taking class must now feel insurmountable. What do you do when Mother Nature not only destroys your dance studio, but your home and the majority of the city you live in? Priorities must shift to those of basic survival. Now, the Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School is trying to help six Puerto Rican dancers resume their training. The students, whose studio in San Juan was badly damaged, had recently attended SCBSs summer intensive. School directors Ariel Serrano and Wilmian Hernandez have started a fundraising effort called Sarasota And Puerto Rico Dance Together to temporarily relocate the dancers. While they can easily offer them scholarships, Serrano and Hernandez must raise an additional $36,000 to provide housing, food and living expenses for one year. (SCBS has a dormitory for female students, but not for male students.) The Sarasota Herald-Tribunes Carrie Seidman reports the harrowing living and financial conditions the young dancers are experiencing, as well as the anxiety Serrano feels as they desperately text him for updates on the fund-raising effort. One student, Danny Rivera, tells Seidman: With this disaster, no one in Puerto Rico is thinking anything about the arts. The possibility to continue our training in ballet is very, very low. Gabriel Roman. Photo by Soho Images, Courtesy SCBS. Luckily, the dance community isnt one for resting on its laurels, as evidenced by recent efforts to help Hurricane Harvey victims. For more information on Sarasota And Puerto Rico Dance Together and to donate, click here. SCBS isnt the only American school raising money for Maria victims. Read on for more ways to help Puerto Rican dance studios in dire need of aid. The FBI's annual Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) report says 118 American law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty in 2016, a 35% increase over 2015 when the FBI reported 86 line-of-duty deaths. Even more alarming, felonious deaths of officers spiked 61% from the 41 slain in 2015 to 66 in 2016. Felonious Deaths The 66 felonious deaths occurred in 29 states and in Puerto Rico. The number of officers killed as a result of criminal acts in 2016 increased by 25 when compared with the 41 officers who were feloniously killed in 2015. The five- and 10-year comparisons show an increase of 17 felonious deaths compared with the 2012 figure (49 officers) and an increase of eight deaths compared with 2007 data (58 officers). The average age of the officers who were feloniously killed was 40 years old. The fallen officers had served in law enforcement for an average of 13 years at the times of the fatal incidents. Of the 66 officers, 64 were male, and two were female. Sixty-one of the officers were white, four were black/African-American, and one was Asian/Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander. At the time the 66 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed: 17 were ambushed (entrapment/premeditation); 13 were answering disturbance calls (seven were domestic disturbance calls); nine were investigating suspicious persons/circumstances; six were engaged in tactical situations; five were performing investigative activities (such as surveillances, searches, or interviews); four were conducting traffic pursuits/stops; three were investigating drug-related matters; three were killed in unprovoked attacks; one was answering a burglary in progress call or pursuing a burglary suspect(s); one was answering a robbery in progress call or pursuing a robbery suspect(s); and four were attempting other arrests. Offenders used firearms to kill 62 of the 66 feloniously killed officers. Of these 62 officers, 37 were slain with handguns, 24 with rifles, and one with a shotgun. Four officers were killed with vehicles used as weapons. Thirty of the felonious deaths occurred in the South, 17 in the West, 13 in the Midwest, four in the Northeast, and two in Puerto Rico. Law enforcement agencies identified 59 alleged assailants in connection with the felonious line-of-duty deaths. Forty-five of the assailants had prior criminal arrests, and 14 of the offenders were under judicial supervision at the times of the felonious incidents. Accidental Deaths Fifty-two law enforcement officers were killed accidentally while performing their duties in 2016. The majority (26 officers) were killed in automobile accidents. The number of accidental line-of-duty deaths increased by seven when compared with the 45 officers who were accidentally killed in 2015. The average age of the officers who were accidentally killed was 38 years old; the average number of years the fallen officers had served in law enforcement was 11. Of the 52 officers accidentally killed, 50 were male, and two were female. Forty of the officers were white, nine were black/African-American, and race was not reported for three of the officers. Of the 52 officers accidentally killed: 26 died as a result of automobile accidents; 12 were struck by vehicles; seven officers died due to motorcycle accidents; three were accidentally shot; two officers drowned; one died in an aircraft accident; and one officer died in another type of duty-related accident. Use of seatbelts was reported for 21 of the 26 officers killed in automobile accidents. Of these 21 officers, 10 were wearing seatbelts, and 11 were not wearing seatbelts at the times of the accidents. Of the 11 officers who were fatally injured in automobile accidents and were not wearing seatbelts, two were seated in parked motor vehicles at the times of the accidents. Twenty-four of the accidental deaths occurred in the South, 12 in the Midwest, nine in the West, five in the Northeast, and two in Puerto Rico. Assaults In 2016, of the 57,180 officers assaulted while performing their duties, 28.9% were injured. The largest percentage of assaulted officers (32.2%) were attacked while responding to disturbance calls. Assailants used personal weapons (hands, fists, feet, etc.) in 78% of the incidents, firearms in 4.2% of incidents, and knives or other cutting instruments in 1.9% of the incidents. Other types of dangerous weapons were used in 16.0% of assaults. Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2016 is available exclusively on the FBIs website at https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2016. Any new police vehicle entering the market must measure itself against existing models in a crowded field. It must perform up to the task of pursuing subjects on various terrains at higher speeds and in dynamic situations. For law enforcement agencies that purchase the vehicles, the process must go beyond the marketing claims made by manufacturers. Each fall, law enforcement agencies in Michigan and California provide such a measuring stick in the form of extensive police vehicle testing that's designed to provide unbiased data to those purchasers. The Michigan State Police in September, then the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department in October, run these vehicles through a battery of tests for acceleration, top speed, braking, dynamics, and ergonomics. The agencies then produce comprehensive reports. The process also provides feedback to manufacturers to help them make their products more competitive. "A new vehicle entering the marketplace wants to be compared against all of those, because its a pretty big sales tool for all of the manufacturers to say, 'Hey we're going after the speed, carrying capacity, that type of thing,'" says Lt. Mike McCarthy, who oversees the Michigan testing as commander of the Precision Driving Unit. The market for pursuit vehicles has grown since the days of the Ford Crown Vic Police Interceptor that was retired after the 2011 model year. The 2018 model year will include seven sedans, four SUVs, and five motorcycles that have been offered in previous years. Additionally, three new police vehicles hope to gain ground as an option for an officer during the pursuit of a fleeing subject. Ford is offering its Police Responder Hybrid Sedan and F-150 Police Responder pickupthe first gasoline-electric hybrid and large pickup put through the testingand Yamaha is introducing its FJR1300 sport touring motorcycle. These three vehicles have been confirmed for the respective lineups. A fourth vehicle tested in Michigan, a pursuit version of the Dodge Durango, may be offered in 2019, say Dodge law enforcement associates who brought that vehicle to Michigan. Let's take a closer look at the crop of sedans, SUVs, and a pickup truck offered by various manufacturers as 2018-MY vehicles. Ford Expands Pursuit Options Ford brought two unique police pursuit vehicles to the testing. One is a pickup truck that offers off-road and towing capability and the other is a hybrid sedan. While high-speed performance may not be the first thought, the vehicles are designed to perform in a pursuit, says Steve Tyler, Ford's police fleet marketing manager. Photo: Paul Clinton "We do expect to see some use in cities and towns," Tyler says about the F-150 Responder. "Where we expect the majority of the use is where agencies need an on-road pursuit vehicle and off-road capability." The F-150 Police Responder, which is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, reached a top speed of 100 mph in eight laps at the FCA Proving Grounds in Chelsea. It reached a zero to 60 mph time of 6.3 seconds and a 0 to 100 mph time of 16.1 seconds. While top speed was the lowest among the 14 four-wheel vehicles tested, the truck's speed increments surpassed other vehicles. Its zero-to-60 time was fourth. From zero to 100 mph, the vehicle placed fifth. In brake testing from 60 mph to zero, the truck needed 142.96 inches (11.9 feet) to reach a full stop. It ranked 12 of 14 in that category. In vehicle dynamics testing at the Grattan Raceway in Belding, the F-150 Responder averaged 1 minute, 47 seconds over four laps (1:47.34), which was 14 out of 14. Ford's Police Responder Hybrid 2.0L reached a top speed of 119 mph. It reached zero to 60 mph in 9 seconds and zero to 100 mph in 23.1 seconds. It was 14 out of 14 vehicles in those increments. In brake testing, it needed 136.16 inches (11.3 feet) to stop, which was ninth. In the vehicle dynamics testing, the gasoline-electric hybrid averaged 1 minute, 45 seconds (1:45.91) over the four laps, which placed 12 out of 14. The MSP also tested six carryover models from Ford, including the Police Interceptor sedan with the 3.5L EcoBoost (in all-wheel and front-wheel drive), P.I. sedan with the 3.7L V-6 in AWD, P.I. sedan with the 2.0L EcoBoost in FWD, P.I. Utility with 3.5L EcoBoost in AWD, and P.I. Utility with 3.7L V-6 in AWD. Dodge Considers Pursuit Durango Fiat Chrysler's Dodge unit brought a Dodge Durango, which could be offered as a 2019-MY pursuit vehicle if all goes according to plan. Dodge representatives attending the Michigan testing declined to provide full details about how the vehicle is different from the 2017 Durango Special Service. Both vehicles are powered by a 5.7-liter V-8 engine that delivers power via an eight-speed transmission to a rear-wheel or available all-wheel drive system. Dodge will release more details later this year. "It's a rear-wheel-drive vehicle with an all-wheel drive option," says David Callery, FCA's program manager for police and emergency response vehicles. "To get through the tests, the vehicle has to hold up to the rigors of daily patrol. We believe it's equal or superior to the other vehicles out there." The Durango V-8 with AWD reached a top speed of 120 mph, zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, and zero to 100 mph in 17 seconds. It was sixth in zero to 60 mph and sixth in zero to 100 mph. In brake testing, the Durango needed 133.94 inches (11.1 feet) to stop, which was fifth. Photo: Paul Clinton In the dynamics testing, the Durango averaged 1 minute, 42 seconds (1:42.10) over the four laps, which was 11 out of 14. For 2018, Dodge will offer several upgrades to the Charger Pursuit, including an enhanced Office Protection Package that alerts an officer about someone approaching the rear of the vehicle as standard equipment. FCA is upgrading the dashboard display to 7 inches (from 5 inches) and adding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the Street Appearance package. A rear backup camera now becomes standard equipment. The Fleet Safety Group that includes a blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, and Rear ParkSense will be offered as a no-cost option. In addition, the rear camera can now remain active at up to 8 mph or 10 seconds and can be turned on at higher speeds. Chevrolet Boosts Safety Features Two Chevrolet vehicles went through testingthe Tahoe PPV 5.3L in rear-wheel and four-wheel drive. The GM unit has pared back its pursuit offerings, after discontinuing the Caprice PPV and Impala Limited, to focus on higher-demand SUVs. "The Tahoe PPV is a proven vehicle that we've had for several years," says Dana Hammer, product and marketing manager for law enforcement vehicles. "We have technology upgrades for 2018." For the 2018-MY, Chevrolet will offer the optional Enhanced Driver Alert Package with its Tahoe PPV that includes automatic braking, collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and Safety Alert Driver Seat. Photo: Paul Clinton Chevrolet will also add an 8-inch diagonal touchscreen with a backup camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity with voice commands, and steering wheel controls. Rethinking Test Protocols This year's testing brought several new categories of vehicles that may cause the law enforcement evaluators to rethink their testing. While no changes were made for this year, a gasoline-electric hybrid may require additional data points. "With the hybrid, they're going after alternative fuels and fuel mileage," McCarthy says. "That car may not be as a fast as some of the other sedans, but it's obviously going to have better fuel mileage in the long run than anything else." The agency also expects to test battery-electric vehicles in future years. "We're not expecting the same results out of them, but it does bring up the question that in the future, if we go fully electric, is this the best test," McCarthy says. "We don't report our fuel level [after the testing]. That may be good to know." Paul Clinton is the senior web editor for Government Fleet and its sister publications. California Highway Patrol Officer Tracy Ross, who lives in Napa, is working overtime to assist her neighbors affected by the Wine Country fires. The area was under a mandatory evacuation order for five days. Holdouts who refused to leave their homes were cut off from everything. They couldnt leave to get food or to fill up their cars. Some had animals or sick relatives to care for. She knows who has pets and who raises cattle. She knows if someones relatives have been hospitalized or evacuated. And she knows where everyone who stayed lives. On Tuesday, the second day the neighborhood was in lockdown, Ross bought bags of groceries with her own money and sent her husband to fetch specialty items. She then dropped them off to affected residents. Ross, who patrols Napa regularly, said shes gotten to know the neighborhood where shes been posted. She knows who lives where, and shes written notes of passage that allowed certain residents to go through the barricades. On Wednesday, when a crying mother called her cell phone saying she hadnt seen her hospitalized daughter in three days, Ross got in her patrol car and took the woman to Queen of the Valley hospital. She waited, then brought her home, SFGate.com reports. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Ailing Arizona Republican senator and former presidential nominee John McCain appears to have made it his mission to make Donald Trumps life as difficult as possible before the end of his career. That was on full display on Monday during a speech McCain delivered after former Vice President Joe Biden awarded him the Liberty Medal. The GOP senator leveled a series of veiled but clear shots at Trumps disturbing worldview. Video: Sen. McCain calls refusal of obligations of international leadership for spurious nationalism unpatriotic https://t.co/bx4E93sdnE NBC News (@NBCNews) October 17, 2017 McCain said: To fear the world we have organized and led for three-quarters of a century, to abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership and our duty to remain the last best hope of earth for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. Without even mentioning Trumps name, John McCain made what was arguably the hardest criticism yet of Donald Trumps foreign policy and worldview. Instead of leading the world, as McCain suggested, Trump has diminished American credibility by abandoning American values at home and unraveling international agreements with our allies abroad. And all of it so Trump can gain the personal satisfaction of scaling back the hard but fruitful work of former Presiden Barack Obama. Whether its unconstitutionally closing Americas borders to immigrants and refugees, picking fights with world leaders, pulling out of a global climate change agreement, allowing Russia to get away with a massive attack on our democracy, or unraveling a key accord that prevents Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, Trump isnt just taking a wrecking ball to the Obama legacy; hes bulldozing decades of American leadership and international norms. While John McCains prognosis may not be favorable, he is certainly making the most of the time he has left by standing up to Trump and putting country ahead of party. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print In the latest installment of What Despicable Thing Did Donald Trump Say Today?, the president made the disgusting claim at a press conference on Monday that, unlike Barack Obama and other former presidents, Trump calls the family members of fallen U.S. soldiers to pay his respects. The traditional way, if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didnt make calls, a lot of them didnt make calls, Trump said when asked about the four Green Berets killed earlier this month in Niger. Despite the fact that this is an outright lie, the White House doubled down on it a short time ago: JUST IN: @PressSec responds to criticism of Trumps comments about past presidents lack of calls to families of the fallen. pic.twitter.com/ghnBbLjhK1 Peter Alexander (@PeterAlexander) October 16, 2017 Not only did Obama call to pay his respects to the fallen when he was president, but he did it in person on numberous occasions. Here is one of those occasions, shared by AM Joy contributor Scott Dworkin, when the former president flew to Delaware at midnight in 2009 to meet with family members and pay his respects to 18 soldiers killed in Afghanistan. .@BarackObama flew to Delaware at midnight in 2009, met with families of & paid honor to the remains of 18 Americans killed in Afghanistan. pic.twitter.com/kgTYytxrXj Scott Dworkin (@funder) October 16, 2017 It didnt take long for those who worked in previous administrations Democrat and Republican to pounce on Trumps comments. According to CBS News, former deputy chief of staff for operations under Obama called Trumps claim a fing lie. To say President Obama (or past presidents) didnt call the family member of soldiers KIA (killed in action) hes a deranged animal, she added, according to the report. CBS News also received confirmation from aides who worked in both the Clinton and Bush White Houses that both presidents did, in fact, call family members of fallen soldiers. Its not surprising that Trump has once again chosen to tell a blatant lie about his predecessor, but its disgusting that this president has largely been silent about the four fallen U.S. soldiers in Niger and when he did decide to talk about them, as he did today, he chose to make it all about himself by telling a blatant lie. Just when we thought the bar couldnt sink any lower for this president, Donald Trump rises to the occasion and proves us all wrong. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print By Mica Rosenberg, Reade Levinson and Ryan McNeill OAKLAND, California (Reuters) The two Honduran women told nearly identical stories to the immigration courts: Fear for their lives and for the lives of their children drove them to seek asylum in the United States. They were elected in 2013 to the board of the parent-teacher association at their childrens school in the Honduran capital, Tegucigalpa. They hoped that mothers working together could oust the violent gangs that plagued the campus. Instead, they became targets. Weeks apart, in the spring of 2014, each of the women was confronted by armed gang members who vowed to kill them and their children if they didnt meet the thugs demands. Unaware of each others plight, both fled with their children, making the dangerous trek across Mexico. Both were taken into custody near Hidalgo, Texas, and ended up finding each other in the same U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Artesia, New Mexico. There, they applied for asylum. Thats when their fates diverged. Sandra Gutierrez joined her husband in California, where her case was heard by a San Francisco immigration court judge. At the end of her asylum hearing in September 2016, she received a one-page form, with an X in the box next to granted. She was free to settle into life with her family in the United States. The other woman, Ana, joined her daughters father in the southeastern United States, and her case was assigned to an immigration court in Charlotte, North Carolina. The judge denied her petition and ordered her deported. She is now awaiting a court date after new lawyers got her case reopened. Ana declined to be interviewed for this article. Through her lawyers, she asked that her full name not be used because of her uncertain status and her fear that Honduran gangs could find her. The womens lawyers framed their respective cases with some important differences. However, the women said their reasons for seeking asylum were the same: Gangs had targeted them because of their involvement in the parent-teacher association, and for that, they and their families had been threatened. Taken together, the two cases nearly indistinguishable in their outlines but with opposite outcomes illustrate a troubling fact: An immigrants chance of being allowed to stay in the United States depends largely on who hears the case and where it is heard. Judge Stuart Couch, who heard Anas case in Charlotte, orders immigrants deported 89 percent of the time, according to a Reuters analysis of more than 370,000 cases heard in all 58 U.S. immigration courts over the past 10 years. Judge Dalin Holyoak, who heard Gutierrezs case in San Francisco, orders deportation in 43 percent of cases. In Charlotte, immigrants are ordered deported in 84 percent of cases, more than twice the rate in San Francisco, where 36 percent of cases end in deportation. Couch and Holyoak and their courts are not rare outliers, the analysis found. Variations among judges and courts are broad. Judge Olivia Cassin in New York City allows immigrants to remain in the country in 93 percent of cases she hears. Judge Monique Harris in Houston allows immigrants to stay in just four percent of cases. In Atlanta, 89 percent of cases result in a deportation order. In New York City, 24 percent do. The Reuters analysis used data from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), the U.S. Justice Department unit that oversees immigration courts. The count of deportations included cases in which judges allowed immigrants to leave the country voluntarily. The analysis excluded immigrants who were in detention when their cases were heard because such cases are handled differently. It also excluded cases in which the immigrant did not appear in court, which nearly always end in a deportation order, and cases terminated without a decision or closed at the request of a prosecutor. About half the cases in the analysis were filed by asylum seekers like the two Honduran women. The rest were requests for cancellation of deportation orders or other adjustments to immigration status. GROSS DISPARITIES Of course, other factors influence outcomes in immigration court. For example, U.S. government policy is more lenient toward people from some countries, less so for others. Also, immigration judges are bound by precedents established in the federal appeals court that covers their location. Immigration courts in California and the Pacific Northwest fall under the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and they rule in favor of immigrants far more often than courts in the 4th Circuit, which includes North and South Carolina, Maryland and Virginia, Reuters found. Even so, the Reuters analysis determined that after controlling for such factors, who hears a case and where it is heard remain reliable predictors of how a case will be decided. An immigrant was still four times as likely to be granted asylum by Holyoak in San Francisco as by Couch in Charlotte. The Reuters analysis also found that an immigration judges particular characteristics and situation can affect outcomes. Men are more likely than women to order deportation, as are judges who have worked as ICE prosecutors. The longer a judge has been serving, the more likely that judge is to grant asylum. The findings underscore what academics and government watchdogs have long complained about U.S. immigration courts: Differences among judges and courts can render the system unfair and even inhumane. It is clearly troubling when you have these kinds of gross disparities, said Karen Musalo, director of the Center for Gender & Refugee Studies at the University of California Hastings School of the Law in San Francisco. These are life or death matters. Whether you win or whether you lose shouldnt depend on the roll of the dice of which judge gets your case. EOIR spokeswoman Kathryn Mattingly said the agency does not comment on external analyses of its data. Devin OMalley, a Department of Justice spokesman, challenged the Reuters analysis, citing numerous conflicting statements, miscalculations, and other data errors, but declined to elaborate further. Immigration judges, appointed by the U.S. attorney general, are not authorized to speak on the record about cases. Dana Marks, president of the National Association of Immigration Judges, said each case is like a 1,000 piece puzzle. While two cases might look identical on the surface, she said, each judge has to weigh the nuances of immigration law to allow someone to stay in the country, which could lead to different outcomes. The question of equality of treatment among judges has gained urgency as the number of cases in immigration court has ballooned to record highs. Under President Barack Obama, the courts began efforts to hire more immigration judges to reduce the systems burgeoning backlog, which now stands at more than 620,000 cases, nearly 100,000 of them added since last December. The administration of President Donald Trump is continuing the effort. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in April that the Justice Department planned to hire more than 50 judges this year and 75 in 2018, which would put the total number of sitting judges above 400. Of the 28 immigration judges Sessions has appointed so far, 16 are former ICE prosecutors. That experience, the Reuters analysis found, makes them 23 percent more likely to order deportation. (Neither Holyoak nor Couch worked as an ICE prosecutor, according to their EOIR biographies.) In a wish list of immigration proposals sent to Congress on Oct. 8, the White House said that lax legal standards had led to the immigration court backlog and that misguided judicial decisions have prevented the removal of numerous criminal aliens, while also rendering those aliens eligible to apply for asylum. Among the proposals offered in exchange for a deal with Congress on the roughly 800,000 dreamers children brought to the country illegally by their parents the Trump administration said it wanted to hire even more immigration judges and 1,000 ICE attorneys, while establishing performance metrics for Immigration Judges. CRISIS AT THE BORDER In 2014, an unprecedented 68,000 parents and children, most of them fleeing violence and lawlessness in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, crossed into the United States from Mexico a refugee crisis that has contributed to the bloated backlog of asylum petitions. Many of the migrants, including Gutierrez and Ana, convinced initial interviewers that they had a credible fear of returning home, the first step in filing an asylum claim. Having come from a country with one of the highest murder rates in the world may have helped establish credible fear. But the two women were already at a disadvantage precisely because they came from Honduras. Country of origin is a big factor in determining who gets to stay in the United States because immigrants from some countries are afforded special protections. For example, courts ruled in favor of Chinese immigrants 75 percent of the time, the Reuters analysis found. A 1996 law expanded the definition of political refugees to include people who are forced to abort a child or undergo sterilization, allowing Chinese women to claim persecution under Beijings coercive birth-control policies. Hondurans enjoy no special considerations. They were allowed to stay in the United States in just 16 percent of cases, the Reuters analysis found. The mass exodus from Central America was under way when Gutierrez and Ana were elected to the board of the parent-teacher association at their childrens school in spring 2013. Two rival gangs the Barrio 18 and the Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13 were operating brazenly in the neighborhood. The year before, according to police records in Honduras, gang members killed a school security guard. Now, they were extorting teachers, selling drugs openly and assaulting or killing anyone who confronted them. The new six-member association board set about trying to improve security at the school, which sits on a dirt road behind a high wall topped with razor wire. Before, no one wanted to say anything about the gangs, Gutierrez said. We were the brave ones. The previous president was a man, so we thought, We are women, they wont do anything to us. The schools principal, who asked that he and the school not be identified out of fear of retaliation, worked with the board. They had early success, he said, when they persuaded police to provide officers to guard the school. But the patrols left after a few weeks, probably intimidated by the gangs. One evening in April 2014, Gutierrez was watching television at home with her two sons, ages 5 and 11, when she heard banging at the front door. Her older boy recognized the three armed and heavily tattooed young men on the stoop as the same ones who had thrown him to the ground earlier that day, telling him, not for the first time, that they wanted him to join their ranks. Now they had come to deliver a message to Gutierrez. They said they knew I was involved in the parents association, Gutierrez said. They said they would kill me and my children. I began to panic and shake, she said. I thought, I have to go now. I am not going to risk my childs life. She quickly packed some backpacks for her and her children and called the only friend she knew who had a car. They drove all night to her friends mothers house in another town. NO POLICE HERE Two months later, according to court documents, Ana was walking her 7-year-old daughter home from school when three members of a rival gang confronted them. Two of them grabbed Ana and her daughter, pinned their wrists behind their backs, and pointed a gun at the childs head. The third pointed a gun at Anas head. They demanded that a payment of more than $5,000 be delivered in 24 hours, a huge sum for a woman who sold tortillas for a living. Ana testified in her asylum hearing that she knew they were gang members because they were dressed in baggy clothing and they also had ugly tattoos all over their bodies and faces. Ana and her daughter ran home and then, fearing the gang would come after them, fled out the back door. We had to jump over a wall, and I hurt my foot doing so, she said in an affidavit. I was desperate and knew that I had to leave my daughters life and mine were in danger. The school principal said he understands why Gutierrez and Ana left Honduras. Because there were no police here, (the gangs) did what they wanted, he said. They said, Were going to kill the members of the parent-teacher association to get them out of here. So the women fled. Gutierrez hid for two months at her friends mothers house outside Tegucigalpa. She joined another woman and, with their children, they set out to cross Mexico. On the journey, they were kidnapped common for Central American migrants and held for a $3,500 ransom. Gutierrez contacted relatives who wired the money. The kidnappers released her and her two sons near the U.S. border. There they piled with another group of migrants into an inflatable raft and crossed the Rio Grande, the border between Mexico and the United States. They landed near Hidalgo, Texas. After walking for an hour and a half, lost and desperate, Gutierrez and her sons sat down in the middle of a dirt road and waited for someone to pass. Two officials in uniforms picked them up. They were eventually transferred to the ICE detention center in Artesia. Ana fled with her daughter the night the gang members threatened them on the street. We bought a bus pass to go to Guatemala and from Guatemala to Mexico and to the U.S.-Mexico border, according to her court testimony. The journey took three weeks. In Mexico, she hired a coyote a smuggler to help them cross into the United States and then turned herself in to Border Patrol agents near Hidalgo. She arrived at the Artesia detention center just weeks after Gutierrez. The other women in the center told me that there was someone else from Honduras who I might know, but I wasnt sure who they were talking about, Gutierrez said. And then one day we went to lunch, and there they were. Gutierrez said that was when she first learned that her fellow parent-teacher association board member had been threatened and had fled from home. Volunteer lawyers helped the women prepare and submit their applications for asylum. In late 2014, the two women were released on bond. Gutierrez moved with her boys to Oakland, California, to join her husband, and petitioned to have her case moved to San Francisco. Ana moved with her daughter to live with her daughters father and petitioned to have her case moved to Charlotte. ASYLUM FREE ZONES Many immigrants released on bond before their cases are heard have no idea that where they settle could make the difference between obtaining legal status and deportation. People familiar with the system are well aware of the difference. When Theodore Murphy, a former ICE prosecutor who now represents immigrants, has a client in a jurisdiction with a high deportation rate but near one with a lower rate, I tell them to move, he said. The Charlotte court that would hear Anas case was one of five jurisdictions labeled asylum free zones by a group of immigrant advocates in written testimony last December before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. The courts in Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas and Atlanta also received the designation. The advocates testified that, while asylum is granted in nearly half of cases nationwide, Charlotte judges granted asylum in just 13 percent of cases in 2015. The Charlotte court was singled out for displaying a particular bias against Central American gang and gender-related asylum claims. Couch is the toughest of Charlottes three immigration judges, according to the Reuters analysis. The Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, a research organization at Syracuse University in New York, first sounded the alarm about disparities in immigration court decisions in 2006. The next year, researchers at Temple University and Georgetown Law School concluded in a study titled Refugee Roulette that in many cases, the most important moment in an asylum case is the instant in which a clerk randomly assigns an application to a particular asylum officer or immigration judge. In 2008, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) found similar disparities in its own study. In response to the rising criticism, the Executive Office for Immigration Review began tracking decisions to identify judges with unusually high or low rates of granting asylum. Mattingly, the EOIR spokeswoman, said the agency held training sessions for judges to address the disparities in 2008 and 2009. It then created a system for the public to file complaints against immigration judges. In a 2016 report, the GAO found that little had changed. EOIR held a two-day training session last year. There is no training on the 2017 calendar. From 2012 to 2016, EOIR received 624 complaints against judges. The 138 complaints lodged in 2016 alone included allegations of bias, as well as concerns about due process and judges conduct within the courtroom. Of the 102 complaints that had been resolved when the data were published, only three resulted in discipline, defined as reprimand or suspension of the judge. Corrective actions such as counseling or training were taken in 39 cases. Close to half the complaints were dismissed. The agency does not identify judges who were the subjects of complaints. Mattingly, the EOIR spokeswoman, said the agency takes seriously any claims of unjustified and significant anomalies in immigration judge decision-making and takes steps to evaluate disparities in immigration adjudications. DAY IN COURT Asylum applicants cannot gain legal U.S. residency because they fled their countries in mortal fear of civil strife or rampant crime or a natural disaster. They must convince the court that they have well-founded fears of persecution in their country because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinions or membership in a particular social group. The definition of a particular social group has been subject to conflicting interpretations in the courts, but in general, such a group comprises people who share basic beliefs or traits that cant or shouldnt have to be changed. In the San Francisco court, Gutierrezs lawyers argued that she qualified for asylum because as a leader of the parent-teacher association, she was at risk for her political opinion her stand against gangs and for belonging to a particular social group of Hondurans opposed to gang violence and recruitment in schools. The lawyers also argued that she was part of another particular social group as the family member of someone under threat, since the gangs had terrorized her son in trying to recruit him. Holyoak was convinced. Gutierrez told Reuters that during her final hearing, the judge apologized for asking so many questions about what had been a painful time in her life, explaining that he had needed to establish her credibility. In the Charlotte court, Anas lawyer focused more narrowly on her political opinion, arguing that she was at risk of persecution for her opposition to gangs in her position on the parent-teacher association board. After hearing Anas case, Couch concluded in his written opinion that Ana was not eligible for asylum because she had not demonstrated a well-founded fear of future persecution on account of a statutorily protected ground. He wasnt convinced that she risked persecution in Honduras because of her political opinion. Well-established law recognizes family as a protected social group, according to the Center for Gender & Refugee Studies. Cases that claim opposition to gangs as a protected political opinion, the center says, have generated fewer precedent-setting decisions, making that argument a more difficult one to win in court, though it has prevailed in some cases. Anas response to Couchs extensive questioning played a part in the decision. In immigration court, the asylum seeker is typically the only witness. As a result, credibility is really the key factor. Persecutors dont give affidavits, said Andrew Arthur, a former immigration judge who now works at the Center for Immigration Studies, a nonprofit organization that supports lower levels of immigration. Couch wrote in his opinion that Anas difficulty recounting the names of the women on the association board weighed against her credibility. He noted that she testified about her fears of the gang with a flat affect and little emotion, displaying a poor demeanor that did not support her credibility. The judge also questioned why, in an early interview with an asylum officer, Ana never mentioned threats to the parent-teacher association, and instead said she thought the gangs were targeting her for the money her daughters father was sending from the United States to build a house in Honduras. Anas assertion that she learned from Gutierrez in detention about gang threats to the parent-teacher association was not persuasive, Couch wrote. The evidence indicates this is a case of criminal extortion that the respondent attempts to fashion into an imputed political opinion claim. SOMEONE WANTS TO KILL THEM Gutierrez said Ana told her in one of their occasional phone conversations that she felt intimidated by the intense questioning of the ICE attorney. Gutierrez also said her friend is very forgetful. Its not that she is lying. Its just that she forgets things. Lisa Knox, the lawyer who represented Gutierrez, said judges where she practices tend to give applicants the benefit of the doubt. They have more understanding of trauma survivors and the difficulty they might have in recounting certain details and little discrepancies, she said. Further, Knox said, asylum seekers arent thinking about the finer points of U.S. asylum law when they are fleeing persecution. People show up in our office (and) they have no idea why someone wants to kill them. They just know someone wants to kill them. Anas lawyer appealed her case to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), the first step in the appellate process. This time, her lawyer included arguments about her membership in a particular social group. She lost. In a three-page ruling, one board member said Anas lawyer could not introduce a new argument on appeal and agreed with Couch that Ana hadnt proved a political motive behind the gang members attack. Ana missed the deadline to appeal the BIA decision to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals because her lawyer confused the deadline. She petitioned the BIA through new lawyers to reopen her case and send it back to the immigration court to allow her to present new evidence of her persecution. The new lawyers argued that her previous representation had been ineffective. In July, the BIA granted Ana the right to a rehearing in immigration court, sending her case back to Charlotte, where it could be heard again by Couch. Gutierrez can live and work legally in the United States and will ultimately be able to apply for citizenship. The 43-year-old, who worked as a nurse in Honduras, lives in a small one-bedroom apartment with her husband, her two sons now 15 and 8 her adult daughter and her grandson. She works as an office janitor and is taking English classes. Her boys are in school. The older one, once threatened by gangs in Honduras, likes studying history and math and is learning to play the cello. Ana, 31, has had a baby since arriving in the United States and has been granted work authorization while she awaits a final decision on her case. She and her lawyers declined to share more detailed information about her situation because she remains fearful of the gangs in Honduras. I am very worried about her, Gutierrez said. The situation in our country is getting worse and worse. Last February, a 50-year-old woman and her 29-year-old son who were selling food at the school Gutierrez and Anas children attended were kidnapped from their home and decapitated, according to police records. The head of the son was placed on the body of the mother and the head of the mother was placed on the body of the son. The murders, like more than 93 percent of crimes in Honduras, remain unsolved. (Reporting by Mica Rosenberg in Oakland, California, and Reade Levinson and Ryan McNeill in New York. Additional reporting by Gustavo Palencia in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and Kristina Cooke in San Francisco. Edited by Sue Horton, Janet Roberts and John Blanton.) Meeting of ASEM Customs Directors-General in Berlin Berlin Declaration adopted (FOTO) The 12th meeting of ASEM Customs Directors-General took place inBerlin on 16-17 October 2017. The meeting brought together theCustoms Directors-General from the European and Asian member statesof ASEM along with representatives from the European Commission. TheWorld Customs Organization also attended as an observer. Today thedelegations adopted the Berlin Declaration, a joint statement thatsets out future targets and actions for customs cooperation amongASEM members. The meeting of ASEM Customs Directors-General was heldin the historic Erzberger Hall at the Federal Ministry of Finance andchaired by Uwe Schroder, Director of Germanys Central CustomsAuthority. Parliamentary State Secretary Michael Meister opened themeeting. Representatives from 45 European and Asian member statesengaged in joint discussions with the European Commission and theWorld Customs Organization, focusing in particular on specificmeasures to facilitate trade, safeguard supply chains, combat piracyand counterfeiting, and promote environmental and consumerprotection. Commenting on the meeting, Mr Schroder stated: Themeetings of ASEM Customs Directors-General are of great importance.Customs authorities in both Asia and Europe face the same challengesin connection with processes of globalisation: How can we facilitateand expedite the movement of goods while simultaneously ensuringsafety and security for businesses and private citizens? We heldin-depth discussions on these issues, and the Berlin Declaration nowgives us plenty of homework to do in the coming two years. The talksresulted in the Berlin Declaration, which outlines the targets andpriorities of European-Asian cooperation and, in particular, sets outa specific plan of action for 2018 and 2019. Key actions for thecoming two years will focus on a customs trade facilitation actionplan, paperless cargo processes, cross-border e-commerce trade lanes,border enforcement in connection with international postal items. Theopening speeches of the Parliamentary State Secretary Dr. Meister andof the Director General of Germanys Central Customs Authority willare available in video format on www.zoll.de . Further information: The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) is an international forum established in 1996 to foster dialogue and cooperation. Today ASEM encompasses 53 members. ASEM focuses on a variety of policy fields. In the area of customs, participating countries work on the alignment, streamlining and harmonisation of customs procedures. They also coordinate strategies to combat illegal activity, including terrorist activity. ASEM Customs Directors-General gather for joint talks every two years, and the meetings rotate between Asia and Europe. The previous meeting took place in Goa, India, in autumn 2015. The Goa Declaration specified a number of European-Asian projects to be carried out in 2016 and 2017 as part of the ASEM action plan on customs matters. In 2015, Germany offered to host the 12th meeting of ASEM Countries in October 2017. Pressekontakt: Generalzolldirektion Pressestelle Stefan Kirsch Telefon: 0228 303 11611 Pressestelle.GZD@zoll.bund.de Original-Content von: Generalzolldirektion, ubermittelt durch news aktuell 25 2021 - 200 ! . ( ) , Cookies . cookies. Charleston, SC (29403) Today Mostly cloudy skies. A stray afternoon thunderstorm is possible. High 72F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms early, then cloudy skies after midnight. Low 56F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%. SCANA, the Cayce-based utility, announced it was being investigated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission because of its handling of the construction of two nuclear reactors at V.C. Summer station in Fairfield County. File Straight No Chaser is celebrating its silver anniversary with a three-month tour that would exact a physical toll on any performer vocalists especially. Yet despite the grueling schedule (they are almost exactly in the middle of more than 60 performances), SNC gave an outstanding show Nov. 13 at the Charleston Gaillard Center. Read moreReview: Straight No Chaser delights young and old on a cappella tour GREENVILLE Few South Carolinians know that red-light cameras were made illegal in the state in 2010. While the red-light camera ban may be in keeping with this states tendency to lean toward a less is more approach to the public road system, I dont believe its for the better. Read moreCommentary: Repeal SC ban on red-light cameras to help save lives Across South Carolina, from the coast to our mountainous state line, new and expanded trails have certainly made a lot of headlines in recent months. Here are just a few of the exciting developments: Read moreEditorial: From the SC coast to the mountains, welcome progress on new trails Democrat Katie Hobbs was elected Arizona governor on Monday, defeating an ally of Donald Trump who falsely claimed the 2020 election was rigged and refused to say she would accept the results of her race this year. Read moreHobbs wins Arizona governors race, flipping state for Dems The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency moved toward repealing former President Barack Obama's Clean Power Plan last week. The policy would've established federal standards to slash carbon dioxide emissions from power plants by 32 percent by 2030, relative to 2005 levels. On Friday, the Post Bulletin spoke with Ellen Anderson, executive director of the Energy Transition Lab at the University of Minnesota Institute on the Environment, about the effect the repeal could have on Minnesota's clean energy efforts. What impact do you think the EPA's rollback of Obama's Clean Power Plan will have on the United States as a whole? It will certainly have some impact especially on some states, (but) at least half the states are going to pursue and still meet the requirements of the Clean Power Plan with or without the rule. So what it's going to do is create kind of a patchwork across the United States and take away a consistent federal policy that is intended to reduce carbon emissions and improve public health. ADVERTISEMENT It could cause some states to push more to continue coal-fired power plants, but overall the way that the energy industry in the United States is evolving, coal is on the decline and I expect that will continue. Do you think the economic benefits of renewable energy as it gets cheaper will outweigh this as a political issue and turn it more into a common sense issue? I think that's actually already happening. It's certainly happening in Minnesota. Wind energy in the Midwest is now the cheapest form of energy generation. The economics have changed dramatically for renewable energy over the last decade. Solar is right on the heels of wind. It's in that same position in many places as well. What impact do you think the repeal will have here considering that we already have pretty progressive renewable policies? I don't think it's going to affect Minnesota very much. We have a strong renewable energy standard, which by the way I was an author of in the Senate. We also have greenhouse gas reduction goals in Minnesota, so we have strong state policy. Even if we had a new governor after the election who was not a supporter of the Clean Power Plan like Gov. Dayton is, those existing policies in state law have driven a dramatic change in our electricity makeup in our state. I think most utilities in Minnesota are ending up doing more renewable energy than is even required by law because it's so inexpensive and they've learned how to do it. Between that and retiring coal plants, I think Minnesota is going to easily meet our requirement under the Clean Power Plan, which was for a 42 percent reduction in carbon emissions. How about states that aren't prioritizing renewable energy the same or focusing on cutting emissions? Wouldn't a national policy like the Clean Power Plan have been a driver for them to cut emissions? Absolutely. Some states, the Clean Power Plan will drive policy in a way that state laws may not be. The way that the Clean Power Plan, and the way that the Clean Air Act is set up under law is that it uses a model of cooperative federalism, which means that it's a federal law, but it's really implemented at a state-by-state level. So states have a lot of leeway in how they design how they're going to meet these federal requirements. ADVERTISEMENT Even though it never actually took effect, it was just being proposed and studied for a few years, and litigated it looked like a lot of different states were going to propose different means of achieving their targets. Do you think this repeal will stand firm? I saw in your statement that you thought some legal action might happen. It will without a doubt be challenged in court. The U.S. Supreme Court has already ruled that the EPA has an obligation, and it has the authority, to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. That was several years ago in a couple of Supreme Court decisions. There will certainly be challenges to the process itself of repealing it, no doubt, but then if the repeal goes through there will be challenges saying that the EPA has to come up with some other kind of plan to reduce or manage or regulate greenhouse gas emissions. What the Supreme Court said is that as a matter of public health, that carbon emissions endangered the public health of the United States, and therefore under the Clean Air Act the EPA had to regulate those emissions. There will most certainly be challenges that will go very likely all the way to the Supreme Court. For the fourth time since June 2013, the Minnesota Supreme Court on Friday suspended a Rochester attorney for at least 30 days. Duane A. Kennedy, who has a private practice, has been on disciplinary probation since that first reprimand. The latest infraction is the third time Kennedy has violated the terms of his disciplinary probation by committing additional acts of professional misconduct, the ruling says. Specifically, he failed to clarify the basis and rate of a fee; failed to deposit unearned client funds into a trust account; failed to maintain the required trust-account books and records; and improperly shared fees with a non-lawyer. In addition to the minimum 30-day suspension, Kennedy was placed on probation for two more years and must provide his trust-account books and all records to the director of the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility each month. Kennedy's recent record dates back to June 2013, when he was placed on probation for a pair of unrelated infractions: His conflict of interest by representing a man in a criminal matter, even though he also represented a witness in the case; and failing to inform another client of a settlement offer in a criminal matter unless the client paid his attorney bill first. ADVERTISEMENT While on probation for those cases, Kennedy represented an alleged victim of third-degree criminal sexual conduct. A few months into the case, he sent three letters to the defense attorney. In them, Kennedy offered to have his client "act more favorably for the defendant as a witness in the criminal case" if the defendant paid the client $300,000. As a result, the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility filed a petition with the Supreme Court, alleging Kennedy had engaged in professional misconduct by that offer, and had done so while already on disciplinary probation. In June 2015, the court agreed, and suspended Kennedy for a minimum of 30 days. During that time, he continued to practice law, prompting the third suspension in January 2016. He was reinstated in March 2016. FORT SNELLING, Minn. The goal was simple: Together, Rochester resident Dr. Guan Lee would walk into the federal building at Fort Snelling with her attorney, Malee Ketelsen-Renner, and together they would walk out. That was it. Yet, such an outcome was anything but certain for Lee, a Malaysian immigrant who has lived in the U.S. for the last 24 years but who now faced deportation. Supporters were hoping for a small miracle. Lee was checking in with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials Monday, and there was reason to fear the worst. Only last week, ICE officials issued a toughly worded statement that branded Lee an ICE fugitive subject to arrest and removal if she did not leave the country voluntarily. It seemed entirely possible that ICE agents would use the meeting to detain Lee, place her in handcuffs and shackles, and deport her. "It just feels so much worse this time, and it's not been like this before," said Jan Zimmerman, one of a dozen supporters who gathered outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building to hold signs and pray for Lee's deliverance. ADVERTISEMENT In the end, ICE officials didn't detain her. A half hour after entering the building, Lee and her attorney emerged from the building to the cheers and palpable relief of her supporters. "Thank God," one backer said. Lee had been granted a reprieve from imminent deportation, but perhaps not from the uncertainty that has shadowed her life. She had been granted a 30-day stay of removal, her attorney said. But what it all meant was hard to fathom. What would happen after 30 days? It was unclear. Instead of being relieved, Lee, 41, seemed disconcerted and discomfited by the fact that she had not been given a date to check in with ICE agents after the 30 days were up, a ritual she has followed for years now. "There is no date," Lee said. Her attorney, on the other hand, saw the 30-day stay "that might be extended" as an unquestionably positive development. Ketelsen-Renner said she would use the time to work with immigration officials to "find a pathway for her to get legal status." One reason ICE officials might have granted Lee a 30-day stay, she speculated, was that her patients continued to count on her for care and treatment. But Ketelsen-Renner admitted she didn't know the reasons for ICE's action. Lee is a physician of naturopathic medicine, an approach that uses methods and substances that stimulate the body's self-healing abilities. "They didn't tell me why they decided to grant a stay of removal," Ketelsen-Renner said. "There really was very little said about this, so I guess they would be in the best position to explain why." ADVERTISEMENT "I have a lot of questions myself," she added. While there was heightened drama outside the federal building, as people waited on the outcome, the situation inside was more perfunctory. Lee's attorney said Lee provided her worksheet to an officer at the ICE check-in window, who looked at his computer screen and wrote his initials on the worksheet, acknowledging that she had reported. Lee has been living from stay to stay since 2011. Lee has made clear that she wants to stay in the U.S. Her supporters describe her as a victim of a byzantine immigration system and her convoluted journey through it a product of bureaucratic bungling. Lee seemed within grasp of becoming a U.S. citizen in 2009, having passed her English and civics exam, when she was denied her application for citizen. The reason: She was never a permanent resident in the first place. To become a citizen, an immigrant has to be a lawful resident. Lee had been denied permanent residency after graduating from college, but she had been under the mistaken belief that her case was under review, her attorney says. Lee has been granted multiple stays of removal over the years. During that time, she has built a life and a practice in the U.S. This May, ICE officials, who exercise nearly absolute prosecutorial discretion in such cases, denied her request for another stay. A dozen supporters and patients of Lee traveled to the federal building to support Lee. They gathered in a circle and prayed for her. They held up signs such as "Keep My Doctor Here!" and "Dr. Lee Saves Lives, Don't Deport Her." Among those was Regina Lewis-Duncan and her daughter, Sydney, and her husband, Jason Duncan. Lewis-Duncan credited Lee with saving her daughter, who she said suffered from an array of medical issues. "No doubt. Without Dr. Lee, her health was in such a perilous state that we don't know where she would be today," Lewis-Duncan said. ADVERTISEMENT Lewis-Duncan said she remained hopeful that immigration officials would find a way to allow Lee to stay in the U.S. "I want to have this sense that there is a true justice in this world," she said. "To say, 'OK, let's look at this case on its individual basis' and to allow a sense of justice to prevail." Rochester doctor faces deportation ORONOCO Oronoco used $139,189 it received from Rochester's half-cent local option sales tax as its first step to prepare the small town for expected growth as jobs in Rochester grow. Some of the thousands of people Mayo Clinic expects to add as part of Destination Medical Center will want to live outside Rochester in smaller towns, said Oronoco Mayor Ryland Eichhorst. And Oronoco, which is just a few miles north along the recently improved U.S. Highway 52, will be well- suited to add homes, he said. There's a problem, however. The city of 1,487 is the largest in Minnesota without a municipal sewer system. Homes and businesses either have their own septic system or communal ones, he said. The city water supply is good, but there's no infrastructure at all for sewer. To make matters worse, many of the old septic systems in the heart of the town along the Zumbro River are outdated. A study found 26 percent are imminent threats to public health and safety, while 35 percent fail to protect ground water. There is no room for new private systems in the core area, so the city began looking to build its own wastewater treatment plant. When legislators came to Oronoco on a bonding tour, they strongly suggested the city hook up to either the Rochester or Pine Island wastewater system, he said. "That is what they would like to see in these smaller towns," he said, and that's what Oronoco is doing now. The lack of a wastewater treatment system is holding back Oronoco, he said. When developers ask about adding more homes, the first question is, "When are you going to have your sewer system in place?," he said. "We know we are limited in our growth," he said. The system "would make developing more attractive." ADVERTISEMENT The city has signed a memorandum of agreement with the state saying it will be done with a new system by 2020 or have all the private systems in compliance, he said. "We have that (memorandum) hanging over our heads," he said. The stumbling block is cost -- about $22.7 million to design and build the system, Eichhorst said. That would mean each parcel would have to pay $55,258, which is way too high, he said. Oronoco receives among the lowest payments in Local Government Aid from the state. Here is how Rochester's sales tax money has helped. The city, which doesn't have an economic development authority, needed money for an engineering study to begin the whole process, but "we really didn't have extra funds to support this study," he said. Along came the $139,189 from Rochester. "It really has been a stepping stone for improving our community. The timing was great." From there, it has been able to get a $500,000 state grant for more studies and is now working with legislators to get money to build the system that would hook up many of the core area buildings to sewer. It would also have ways to reach those outside the core area, places that now have good sewage treatment, to hook up in the future, Eichhorst said. The city is looking for $18.6 million from the state's bonding bill. "Without legislative assistance, the project is not feasible for Oronoco and its residents," according to to a fact sheet that explains why the city is seeking assistance. The rest of the money would come from local assessments. The first stepping stone was the Rochester sales tax money, Eichhorst said, and the last step will have to be state money. "We are hoping," he said. "A little praying too." PLAINVIEW When more than $350,000 came to Plainview in 2013 and 2014 from Rochester's local option sales tax, the city decided to keep its options open regarding how to use it. "We took a step back, and it took us a longer time period for us to determine a use for the money," said Judith Jordan, director of the city's Economic Development Authority. Plainview's city leaders took a look at what the other 16 cities were doing, surveying their ideas to see what fit best for its needs. "We looked at the ways other cities deployed their money." One thing the city did not want to was use the money only once. "We did not want to put it out there in grants that were used one time," she said. "We wanted to make sure this money was available long-term so we set up loan programs." The result was a trio of loan programs that truly are loans as opposed to the forgivable loans that essentially serve as grants. "We didn't want to use the money once so it benefitted one entity," Jordan said. "We wanted to utilize lending, but we wanted it to be as low-interest as we could make it." The three programs are the commercial district improvement program, the residential building program and the lot development program. Each program offers seven-year loans with zero interest for the first three years and 3 percent interest for the remainder of the loan. ADVERTISEMENT New residential lots Peter Meyer, of PK Meyer Buildings Inc., took advantage of the lot development program, which was launched in 2016. He developed 11 residential lots that spring and sold most of them that summer, he said. "Things went pretty fast," Meyer said. "Once I sold a lot, I paid the money back. We have about 80 percent paid back already." With just a few lots left, Meyer said if the housing economy is still in good shape he might develop a few more lots in 2018. In the meantime, the money he used can now be loaned to another business for their development needs. "I think once you give this money away, it's gone," he said. "Now they've got the money back and can give somebody else a chance." Jordan said back in the 1980s, the city made a decision not to invest in an industrial park, so while other cities are busy trying to attract industry, Plainview sees its growth in residential development. "We did a housing study," Jordan said. "We did not have a three-year supply of lots, so bringing 11 more lots into the mix was a very positive outcome." Not that the city is industry-free. Lakeside Foods and Plainview Milk Products have been around for more than 100 years apiece. Both employers that provide hundreds of jobs in the city. The city also has a 10-acre tract zoned industrial, though it currently has no infrastructure such as sewer or water. "We're an ag community," Jordan said. The city has two veterinary clinics and several grain elevators, along with a host of other agriculture-related businesses to go along with the two food processing businesses. "Those are our principal employers and the backbone of the city." ADVERTISEMENT Coffee time One of the biggest deals the loan programs brought to the city was the new Cabin Coffee Co. that opened this summer right at the corner of the busiest intersection in town. "They got a commercial district improvement loan and a lot development loan," Jordan said. "We really worked hard to help them put together financing." Charlene Balcome, one of the co-owners of Cabin Coffee Co. in Plainview, said having that support from her city was a big boost in getting the deal done to start a new business. "Every penny is a benefit," she said. "You definitely reach out for any possibility to make it happen. When you have resources in your town supporting you, that's huge." Helping those main street businesses is a huge part of the commercial district improvement loan program. While the program is still fairly new -- Plainview took a few years to develop its loan programs compared to the other 16 cities -- Jordan said she is hopeful businesses will start to catch on to the deal the programs represent. "The business district has been slower to pick it up," she said. "But having that money in a low-interest loan program, no interest for the first 36 months, we felt that was a reasonable way to disperse that money." These extraordinary revelations, apparently from frustrated FBI agents, were published in The Hill today. The corruption they suggest is extensive: Before the Obama administration approved a controversial deal in 2010 giving Moscow control of a large swath of American uranium, the FBI had gathered substantial evidence that Russian nuclear industry officials were engaged in bribery, kickbacks, extortion and money laundering designed to grow Vladimir Putins atomic energy business inside the United States, according to government documents and interviews. Federal agents used a confidential U.S. witness working inside the Russian nuclear industry to gather extensive financial records, make secret recordings and intercept emails as early as 2009 that showed Moscow had compromised an American uranium trucking firm with bribes and kickbacks in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, FBI and court documents show. They also obtained an eyewitness account backed by documents indicating Russian nuclear officials had routed millions of dollars to the U.S. designed to benefit former President Bill Clintons charitable foundation during the time Secretary of State Hillary Clinton served on a government body that provided a favorable decision to Moscow, sources told The Hill. Let that sink in. All of this was known before the Obama/Clinton State Department approved the controversial transfer of US uranium assets to Russia. But the Obama/Holder Justice Department did nothing. Rather than bring immediate charges in 2010, however, the Department of Justice (DOJ) continued investigating the matter for nearly four more years, essentially leaving the American public and Congress in the dark about Russian nuclear corruption on U.S. soil during a period when the Obama administration made two major decisions benefitting Putins commercial nuclear ambitions. The first decision occurred in October 2010, when the State Department and government agencies on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States unanimously approved the partial sale of Canadian mining company Uranium One to the Russian nuclear giant Rosatom, giving Moscow control of more than 20 percent of Americas uranium supply. *** In 2011, the administration gave approval for Rosatoms Tenex subsidiary to sell commercial uranium to U.S. nuclear power plants in a partnership with the United States Enrichment Corp. The Russians were compromising American contractors in the nuclear industry with kickbacks and extortion threats, all of which raised legitimate national security concerns. And none of that evidence got aired before the Obama administration made those decisions, a person who worked on the case told The Hill, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution by U.S. or Russian officials. It is a supreme irony that the Democrats have tried to make hay out of hypothetical connections between the Trump administration and Russia. As usual, the Obama administration defended itself in the uranium controversy with lies: The Obama administration and the Clintons defended their actions at the time, insisting there was no evidence that any Russians or donors engaged in wrongdoing and there was no national security reason for any member of the committee to oppose the Uranium One deal. But FBI, Energy Department and court documents reviewed by The Hill show the FBI in fact had gathered substantial evidence well before the committees decision that Vadim Mikerin the main Russian overseeing Putins nuclear expansion inside the United States was engaged in wrongdoing starting in 2009. Then-Attorney General Eric Holder was among the Obama administration officials joining Hillary Clinton on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States at the time the Uranium One deal was approved. Multiple current and former government officials told The Hill they did not know whether the FBI or DOJ ever alerted committee members to the criminal activity they uncovered. Russias bribery and extortion scheme was remarkably successful: The case also exposed a serious national security breach: Mikerin had given a contract to an American trucking firm called Transport Logistics International that held the sensitive job of transporting Russias uranium around the United States in return for more than $2 million in kickbacks from some of its executives, court records show. This was known early in the Obama administration, but Holders Department of Justice hushed up Russias crimes and hid the scandal: Bringing down a major Russian nuclear corruption scheme that had both compromised a sensitive uranium transportation asset inside the U.S. and facilitated international money laundering would seem a major feather in any law enforcement agencys cap. But the Justice Department and FBI took little credit in 2014 when Mikerin, the Russian financier and the trucking firm executives were arrested and charged. The only public statement occurred an entire year later when the Justice Department put out a little-noticed press release in August 2015, just days before Labor Day. The release noted that the various defendants had reached plea deals. By that time, the criminal cases against Mikerin had been narrowed to a single charge of money laundering for a scheme that officials admitted stretched from 2004 to 2014. And though agents had evidence of criminal wrongdoing they collected since at least 2009, federal prosecutors only cited in the plea agreement a handful of transactions that occurred in 2011 and 2012, well after the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United Statess approval. The final court case also made no mention of any connection to the influence peddling conversations the FBI undercover informant witnessed about the Russian nuclear officials trying to ingratiate themselves with the Clintons even though agents had gathered documents showing the transmission of millions of dollars from Russias nuclear industry to an American entity that had provided assistance to Bill Clintons foundation, sources confirmed to The Hill. As a result, just about everyone was left in the dark about the extent of the corruption and national security threat that the FBI had unearthed. The lack of fanfare left many key players in Washington with no inkling that a major Russian nuclear corruption scheme with serious national security implications had been uncovered. *** Ronald Hosko, who served as the assistant FBI director in charge of criminal cases when the investigation was underway, told The Hill he did not recall ever being briefed about Mikerins case by the counterintelligence side of the bureau despite the criminal charges that were being lodged. I had no idea this case was being conducted, a surprised Hosko said in an interview. Likewise, major congressional figures were also kept in the dark. Of course they were. Ironies abound: who supervised the Russia investigation? Rod Rosenstein. Who was the FBI director when the Russia probe began in 2009? Robert Mueller. Who was running the FBI when the case ended with a whimper and an apparent cover-up? James Comey. How any of these people can participate with a straight face in an investigation into President Trumps purportedly nefarious (but, as far as we know, nonexistent) relationship with the Russian regime is beyond me. This story belongs on the front page of every newspaper in the United States tomorrow. President Trump met with Senate Majority Leader McConnell today. Then, they held a lengthy joint press conference. The transcript is here. White House officials described the lunch as focused mainly on efforts to cut taxes. Reportedly, Trump and McConnell also discussed Steve Bannons threat to back insurgent candidates in an effort to defeat numerous GOP Senators in primaries. Its likely that convincing Trump not to support this effort was the primary purpose of the lunch from McConnells perspective. McConnells talking points were well-calculated to appeal to Trump. According to Politicos sources, the Majority Leader noted that Bannon appears to be targeting Senators who fully support the presidents agenda e.g., Deb Fischer and John Barrasso. Its a concern that likely resonates with the president. Trump loves loyalty. McConnell also reminded Trump about past insurgent primary winners who went on to lose in the general election. As McConnell later said during the joint press conference: Look, you know, the goal here is to win elections in November. Back in 2010 and 2012, we nominated several candidates Christine ODonnell, Sharron Angle, Todd Akin, Richard Mourdock. Theyre not in the Senate. And the reason for that was that they were not able to appeal to a broader electorate in the general election. My goal as the leader of the Republican Party in the Senate is to keep us in the majority. The way you do that is not complicated. You have to have nominate people who can actually win, because winners make policy and losers go home. We changed the business model in 2014; we nominated people who could win everywhere. We took the majority in the Senate. We had one skirmish in 2016; we kept the majority in the Senate. Its a concern that likely resonates with the president. Trump loves winning. Trumps remarks during the joint press conference suggest that McConnell made progress with the president. Of Bannons insurgency, Trump said: Well, I have a very good relationship, as you know, with Steve Bannon. Steve has been a friend of mine for a long time. I like Steve a lot. Steve is doing what Steve thinks is the right thing. Some of the people that he may be looking at [to primary], Im going to see if we talk him out of that, because, frankly, theyre great people. (Emphasis added) Judging from his tweets, the main source of Trumps frustration with McConnell and the GOP Senate is probably the failure to get the votes needed to pass even skinny Obamacare repeal and replace legislation. But that failure stemmed from the votes of just three Senators. Two of them, Sens. Collins and Murkowski, are the least conservative GOP members. The third, Sen. McCain, loves to be a maverick and hates Trump. The Obamacare vote provides no reason why Trump (as opposed to Bannon) should want to see Sens. Fischer and Barrasso, for example, defeated. Nor, to my knowledge, does any other Senate vote. Trump finds himself in the middle of war between populists and traditional conservative Republicans. He would like, I believe, to mediate that conflict. The notion of Trump as mediator seems implausible at one level, given his personality and given that he sparked the war. On the other hand, its natural that the president, as leader of the coalition that elected him, would like to keep the coalition more or less together. In any case, Trump is the only figure I know of who, at this time, can bridge the gap. Today, he worked the McConnell side of the fence. In his tweets and at his rallies, he works the populist side. His policy decisions so far tend to split the difference. I wish him good luck. NOTE: I have modified this post slightly since it first went up. I dont know about you, but every time I go to the zoo, Im a little jealous of the marmosets, tamarins, monkeys and lemurs. Aside from their adorableness, they all seem to share a joie de vivre thats palpable. I secretly envy they way they go through life swinging from branch to branch or rope to rope; how they can dangle precariously from one arm as if theyre hanging on for dear life, only to capably switch limbs and hoist themselves upright, securely landing atop a jutting ledge. While I have no desire to be caged up, the act of swinging freely seems well, it seems like a blast. Thats why when Tree to Tree Adventure Park opened at the Cape May County Zoo last year, I thought my wildest dreams had come true. But why did Tree to Tree, an Oregon-based company with locations outside of Portland, as well as in New York State, decide to build a course here at the zoo? Tree to Tree Adventure Park Manager Dan Sullivan, who originally worked at the Oregon adventure park, took time to speak about the genesis of this attraction, in advance of my colleague Rebecca King and me trying it out for ourselves. Pamela Dollak: Where did Tree to Tree begin? Dan Sullivan: It started in Oregon theres one in Gaston (outside of Portland), and theres one in New York called Adirondack Extreme. Now theres Cape May. There will be a park in Idaho next year. PD: Why the Cape May County Zoo? DS: My sister (Molly Beres) and my in-laws own the business. Were all from New Jersey our grandmother owns a place in Wildwood. We know the area well. We came to the zoo and got in touch with the former director who was instrumental in getting us there. PD: How has the response been since you opened? DS: Fantastic! Were very pleased with the response. It was such hard work physically getting the course done, and Im so happy people are interested. PD: Who is the customer? Who is brave enough to do this? DS: Mostly families, which is why we have a kids and adults course. We can accommodate 7 years old and up. Its a very family-friendly thing to do. It gets them outside, off iPhones. It gets them climbing. Thats what we really enjoy. Getting people outdoors again. PD: Describe the adventure. DS: Officially its called an aerial obstacle course. Its a giant obstacle course up in the trees. Everyone knows theres a zip line course, but its much more. Its tightropes, bridges, trapezes and then there are zip lines, of course. But first and foremost its an aerial obstacle course. PD: Aside from the park to open in Idaho next year, will there be any more Tree to Tree Adventure Parks built? DS: We havent found a place to build again yet, but that doesnt mean weve stopped looking we always have our eyes open. Our Tree to Tree adventure Pamela: I guess you could say that Im a bit of an adventure-seeker. Since June I have: rappelled 15 stories down the Sheraton Atlantic City, barnstormed in the Red Baron, gone skytyping with the GEICO Skytypers and had a giraffe literally eating out of my hand at the Cape May County Zoo. It was at the zoo when I came across what I knew had to be my next exploit the Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park. It is everything I could possibly wish for in a day at the park. It is essentially what the kid in me would like to do more often, if the opportunity arose: swing, climb and zip from tree to tree. I was so excited as I was getting geared up. Our guide and instructor was very thorough, as safety is a main concern. Although, its pretty darn near impossible to fall from a tree. You can lose your footing, sure. But youre harnessed up so securely that youre not going anywhere near the ground. Chinese-born owner and chef turn Sushi Ocean View into an American favorite Chinese-born Faith Zheng and her partner Anthony Ling, also from China, are the heart and soul of Sushi Ocean View, just off Route 9. From 45 feet up, there were ladders to climb, nets to walk through, uneven wooden planks to traipse over, tightropes to tippy toe on and, of course, zip lines to zip through the woods. There are five very different courses, including one comprised of all zip lines. The challenges are challenging. And the entire course can take anywhere from two to four hours, depending on your ability, as well as your agility. Rebecca and I were doing great, moving right along, all the while giggling like schoolgirls the whole time (OK, that was probably just me). The point is, this wooded aerial adventure course has you feeling like youre one part Tarzan, one part Indiana Jones and one part circus performer. And if that doesnt get you jazzed, then I beg of you, please have someone check your pulse, because this attraction is fun, unique, exciting, daring, invigorating and confidence building because you really do feel as if youve accomplished something great after this. Rebecca: Im not afraid of heights, but as Pamela and I began our Tree to Tree adventure, and I looked down from the tiny wooden perch we had climbed onto, I reconsidered that fact. Fortunately, I didnt have much time to amplify that doubtful little voice in my head, because once I began, all of my mental and physical energy was dominated by getting through the course. Dont get me wrong, for those sound of body and with no fear of heights, the course is definitely do-able, but it is a big challenge. Sometimes the sections of the course were straightforward, for example, balancing on a single wire while holding another wire above your head to balance. Other obstacles had me calling down to the instructor asking, How am I even supposed to get past this? With swinging, unsteady boards to stand on and bicep-clenching ropes to grab, the course makes you feel like an Indiana Jones-in-training which is exactly where the fun comes in. The Tree to Tree experience combines the endorphin high of a good workout with the thrill that comes any time humans are dangerously high off the ground and the make-believe fun of suddenly being the star of your very own action movie. All of this is made better by the fact that you are perfectly safe up in those trees. In fact, I was probably less in danger of hurting myself up there than I would be on the ground. The instructors are calming and helpful. The interspersed zip lines are rewarding and exciting. And the course is unlike anything youll experience in your day-to-day life. Bring your game face. Youll need it. South Jersey Industries will expand its customer base as it acquires two utility companies in a $1.7 billion deal, the company announced Monday. The Folsom-based utility company announced it entered into a purchase agreement with with Elizabethtown Gas and Elkton Gas in Maryland from Pivotal Utilities Holdings Inc., a subsidiary of Southern Gas Co. South Jersey Industries said the transaction is expected to close in mid-2018. South Jersey Industries is the parent company of South Jersey Gas. The merger will make South Jersey Industries the second-largest natural gas provider in New Jersey, providing service to more than 675,000 customers. In addition to Elizabethtown Gas 288,000 customers, the company will also add more than 6,000 customers in Maryland as part of the deal, according to a news release. The acquisition of Elizabethtown Gas and Elkton Gas is a great fit for SJI and reinforces our commitment to high quality, regulated earnings growth, Michael J. Renna, president and CEO of South Jersey Industries, said in the statement. The deal is still awaiting accreditation and is subject to approvals by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and the Maryland Public Service Commission, as well as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Federal Communications Commission, the release stated. (The acquisition) will also further our commitment to operational excellence and an outstanding customer experience said Renna. Elizabethtown Gas, Elkton Gas and SJI are deeply tied to the communities we serve and we look forward to building upon those relationships. PLEASANTVILLE A Corvette crashed into The Press of Atlantic City building Tuesday afternoon, shattering two large windows and knocking over cabinets. Shortly after 12:30 p.m., Devon ONeill, 20, of Pleasantville, said she fell asleep and drove through the intersection of Devins Lane and Washington Avenue. The red Corvette jumped the curb and traveled about 75 feet on the grass before slamming into the 1000 W. Washington Ave. building, through two windows and into the newsroom. The force of the crash shattered two large first-floor windows and knocked over several filing cabinets, where several reporters were working. Pleasantville Police Capt. Matthew Hartman said the cause of the crash is believed to be fatigue and driver inattention. No summonses or charges had been issued as of 7 p.m. Tuesday, he said. When asked about the possibility of DWI, Hartman said, No tests conducted, officers and EMS did not detect any signs of intoxication. Several journalists had just wrapped up a Facebook Live discussion when the sound of shattered glass and metal filled the air. The driver and the passenger of the vehicle, Sergio Jordan, 35, of Pleasantville, were being questioned by police immediately following the crash. No injuries were reported in the office or outside. The investigation is ongoing, Hartman said. Staff Writer Erin Serpico contributed to this story. A Somers Point contractor is accused of defrauding homeowners of more than $1 million in federal funding to repair, rebuild or elevate homes after Hurricane Sandy. New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino and the state Division of Consumer Affairs filed a complaint in the Superior Court Chancery Division in Atlantic County against Werks Intended LLC, also doing business under the name McAllister Building Group, and company owners Lawrence Tre McAllister III and Monica McAllister. McAllister is registered with offices in Ocean City, Linwood and Somers Point. According to the complaint, the defendants took more than $1.6 million from customers for home repair and rebuilding work, including home elevations, after Hurricane Sandy. More than $1.3 million was from the Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Elevation and Mitigation, or RREM, and the Low-to-Moderate Income, or LMI, programs, administered by the state Department of Community Affairs. In a January interview, Lawrence McAllister said about 70 percent of the companys house-raising projects were related to Sandy recovery and thus eligible for RREM funds. He said dealing with the program is awful, absolutely awful because of delayed payments and red tape. The state said 23 homeowners have claimed McAllister did substandard work, failed to provide completion dates, did not make repairs and caused damage to their homes. It also alleges the company failed to pay subcontractors and asked customers for more money to finish jobs, in some cases stopping work until it was provided. The complaints alleged multiple violations of the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act, the Contractors Registration Act and several other regulation acts. The state is seeking restitution for the homeowners, as well as a return of the federal funds, and to permanently prohibit McAllister from doing construction work in New Jersey, Porrino said in a press release. Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file complaints online with the DCA by visiting its website, www.njconsumeraffairs.gov, or by calling 1-800-242-5846 or 973-504-6200. No level of lead is safe near children, which is why state officials are encouraging New Jersey providers and health leaders to expand testing and treatment for lead exposure. Ahead of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, which begins Sunday, the state Department of Health is offering counties and local health agencies to apply for up to $10 million in funding to expand child lead testing and services like education, home inspections and nurse case management. Lead can disrupt the normal growth and development of a childs brain and central nervous system and can result in hyperactivity, attention deficits, developmental delays and decreased hearing, Health Commissioner Cathleen Bennett said in a statement. The health department last month revised its childhood lead prevention rules and standards to include treating children who test at lower lead levels. New rules require that there must be medical intervention when a child tests positive at 5 micrograms per deciliter of lead in blood. The previous standards required intervention at 10 micrograms or more. Local health agencies can apply for funding individually. County and local health departments can enter into shared services agreements to handle a minimum of 20 cases for the funding, which can be used for equipment, training supplies and staff, health department officials said. The health department already provides $3.9 million for training, certification of inspectors, abatement and grants to health departments with the highest incidence of children with elevated blood lead levels. State officials said in February that 630,000 children under the age of 6 are at risk of lead poisoning in New Jersey, but health records show fewer than half of children in many counties get screened for lead. The Department of Health launched its ongoing public education campaign #kNOwLEAD last year to increase awareness of lead hazards in home, schools and public places, to teach residents about what they could do to prevent exposure and to encourage parents to get their children tested. Overall, 214,741 children were tested for lead exposure in New Jersey in fiscal year 2016, a 4.1 percent increase over the previous years testing numbers. Common sources of lead exposure include paint used in homes built prior to 1978, lead in drinking pipes, soil contamination, imported candy, toys, jewelry and spices, ceramic pottery glazes and some herbal remedies. Funding applications are due to the health department by Nov. 13. Successful agencies, providers and departments will be announced by the end of the year and the money will be distributed in January. For more information on childhood lead exposure, visit state.nj.us/health/childhoodlead/. CAPE MAY POINT The cold front that just swept through the region brought with it a plethora of migrating birds, from songbirds to their raptor predators. More than 800 American kestrels, the smallest falcon in North America, and more than 600 sharp-shinned hawks migrated over Cape May Point on Monday, said Cape May Bird Observatory Interpretive Naturalist Andrew Dreelin, 22, of Columbus, Georgia. On Tuesday, the sharp-shinned numbers increased to 911 by the end of the day, according to the CMBO web site. A less ideal day might see 100 to 200 of each, he said. The best conditions are a cold front and northwest winds rolling through, Dreelin said. Winds from the north give birds a tail wind, and from the west push them toward the shore and the natural bottleneck that is Cape May. By 10 a.m. Tuesday morning about 550 raptors of various kinds had flown by and been counted. Thats a lot for that hour of day, said hawk counter Erik Bruhnke, of Duluth, Minnesota. This is his second season heading up the 41-year old Hawkwatch here, run by New Jersey Audubons CMBO. The rest of the year he leads birding tours all over the world, he said. Songbirds move south when a cold front hits, Bruhnke said, because many are insect eaters. And the predators that eat them follow them, he said. A recent graduate of Cornell University, Dreelin is stationed at CMBOs Hawkwatch platform in Cape May Point State Park to help visitors spot migrating birds, often high in the sky. He and other interpretive naturalists Ben West and Carolyn Rubinfeld answered lots of questions from about 60 visitors on the platform about noon. There are often visitors from all over the nation and the world. Mike Ranck of Tampa, Florida, said he spends time at CMBOs Hawkwatch and at Hawk Mountain in Pennsylvania every fall, watching migrating raptors. And Jim Rosin, who retired to Cape May, said he has met people this year from Denmark, England and Belgium. As Dreelin was describing this years migration, there were sudden cries of, A bat! Its a bat! and everyones binoculars zoomed in on a dark creature with white streaks zipping over the platform. Thats a hoary bat, Dreelin explained, named for the white tips on its brown hair that looks like frost. Its a migratory bat species, Dreelin explained. It was quite a sighting. We get mostly red bats here, he said. So many birds and other creatures fly by, theres always a chance of seeing something unusual, he said. This season he watched a merlin catch a monarch butterfly, then spit it out and let it fly away. Monarchs taste terrible to birds, Dreelin said, because of a chemical in their bodies from eating milkweed plants as larvae. Much higher in the sky Coopers hawks and sharp-shinned hawks were riding thermals warm funnels of air that allow them to cover large distances while conserving energy. Cold fronts in September associated with passing hurricanes also brought big numbers through, said Dreelin. On Sept. 20 the Hawkwatch counted 2,683 sharp-shinned hawks, the highest number of that species since 1998. And on Sept. 28 it counted 1,936 kestrels, the highest number since 1999. The Hawkwatch started Sept. 1 and continues through Nov. 30 from sunrise to 5 p.m. every day. To see the days counts, visit the Cape May Bird Observatorys website and click on live data. BEIJING, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Beijing Capital Airlines will launch a nonstop service between London and Qingdao on November 17, 2017, following the announcement of its Sydney-Qingdao nonstop service commencing on October 30th. The new Airbus A330 twin-aisle wide-body aircraft is scheduled to operate on the route, twice a week on Monday and Friday. Flight No. Schedule Terminal Dep. Time Arr. Time Terminal JD432 Monday, Friday London Heathrow 22:00 17:30+1 Qingdao JD431 Monday, Friday Qingdao 15:05 19:50 London Heathrow Often called the Switzerland of the Orient, Qingdao is located at the southern end of the Shandong peninsula. The city is an important transportation hub along China's eastern coast and a main port of entry for travelers arriving from abroad as well as a key exit point for travel outside of the country. At present, passengers flying from Qingdao to London need to transfer in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Hong Kong. Now, with the London-Qingdao service, the first nonstop service between the two cities, passengers can save significant time in transit, eliminating the need to switch aircraft while on route as well as avoid what can often amount to many hours of wait time at the intermediary airport. With only 12 flying hours, the nonstop service provides a convenient air bridge for passengers from Qingdao and surrounding areas to London. The launch of the London-Qingdao nonstop service is part of Beijing Capital Airlines' roadmap for ongoing global expansion as well as the accelerating of the establishment of its global network. The new route is Beijing Capital Airlines' first nonstop service to London, closing a gap that the airline needed to fill in terms of the UK market while growing the network and providing passengers with the convenience of a more diversified set of travel choices. Going forward, Beijing Capital Airlines plans to launch more travel products, offer a wider range of quality services and enable a more accommodating and comfortable travel experience for passengers travelling to London. SOURCE Beijing Capital Airlines Co., Ltd. BENGALURU, India, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- In continuation to our letter dated September 4, 2017, please find enclosed the press release titled "Infosys to Announce Second Quarter Results on October 24, 2017". This will also be made available on the Company's website at www.infosys.com and also can be downloaded from http://www.bseindia.com/xml-data/corpfiling/AttachLive/2ac632e4-5101-4faa-931c-505b360414a0.pdf This is a disclosure announcement from PR Newswire. SOURCE Infosys Limited New Delhi, Oct 12 : Delhi Environment Minister Imran Hussain on Thursday directed officials to strictly implement the Supreme Court's October 9 order to ban the sale of firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region this Diwali. Hussain asked the Environment Department to constitute special teams to check sale of firecrackers across Delhi ahead of Diwali on October 19 and report violations to the Delhi Police. His directions came in a review meeting on air quality with officers of the Environment Department and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), an official statement said. The Minister said stubble-burning in neighbouring states continued unabated and it could impact Delhi's air quality. "The cumulative effect of bursting of firecrackers and emissions from other sources may lead to more pollution," the statement quoted him as saying. The Environment Department has been organising awareness campaigns against the bursting of firecrackers, the statement said. London, Oct 16 : UK Prime Minister Theresa May left for Brussels on Monday to hold talks with members of the European Commission in order to advance Brexit negotiations, Downing Street said. May would attend a working dinner with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and the European Union's (EU) Brexit Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier, reports Efe news. May would be accompanied by Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis and is scheduled to meet other heads of state before the EU leaders' summit on Friday. The UK aims to persuade the other 27 members to authorise Barnier to initiate the second phase of negotiations. However, Barnier said last week that he could not recommend progressing to the second phase since there had not been sufficient progress in the first phase. Phase one involves the future rights of EU and UK citizens, the border with Ireland, and how much London should pay to settle pending financial commitments to the EU. After losing an absolute majority in parliament in the June election, May's administration is divided internally on the focus of the talks. This has led to speculation over possible resignations or a restructuring of the government, while the possibility of another General Election has not been ruled out should negotiations with the EU yield no progress. Washington, Oct 17 : In yet another interstellar feat, scientists at the LIGO detectors and the world over detected the first "ripples in space" or gravitational waves produced by the merger of two ancient remnants of stars known as neutron stars. The neutron stars merged in a galaxy called NGC 4993, located about 130 million light years from Earth in the constellation Hydra. Seven new papers describe the first-ever detection of light from a gravitational wave source. The event, caused by two neutron stars colliding and merging together, was dubbed "GW170817" because it sent ripples through space-time that reached Earth on August 17. Around the world, hundreds of excited astronomers mobilised quickly and were able to observe the event using numerous telescopes, providing a wealth of new data. Previous detections of gravitational waves have all involved the merger of two black holes, a feat that won the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics earlier in October. However, black hole mergers are not expected to produce any electromagnetic radiation (light), meaning they cannot be detected by conventional telescopes. In contrast, binary neutron star (NS-NS) mergers have long been expected to produce an energetic explosion and a plume of radioactive material, generating light, but have never previously been detected. These mergers provide important clues as to how matter behaves under these extreme conditions. The papers published online in Science describe how light from the NS-NS merger was precisely located, subsequent observations at X-ray, ultraviolet (UV), optical, infrared (IR) and radio wavelengths, and theoretical analysis of the event. "This is a milestone in the growing effort by scientists worldwide to unlock the mysteries of the universe and of earth," said Professor Ehud Nakar of Tel Aviv University's Raymond and Beverly Sackler School of Physics and Astronomy. A neutron star forms when a star much bigger and brighter than the sun exhausts its thermonuclear fuel supply and explodes into a violent supernova. The explosion of neutron stars, which are made almost entirely of neutrons, was detected by multiple telescopes across the electromagnetic spectrum, from gamma rays and visible light to radio waves. The merger is the first cosmological event observed in both gravitational waves--ripples in the fabric of space-time--and the entire spectrum of light, from gamma rays to radio waves. Gravitational waves from the event arrived first at the twin Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors, located in Hanford, Washington, and Livingston, Louisiana. Because of the orientation of the neutron star pair, the newly operational Virgo detector, located near Pisa, Italy, observed a weaker signal. Less than two seconds later, the Gamma-ray Burst Monitor on NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope detected a short burst of gamma rays. A rapid analysis of these signals enabled the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC) and the Virgo Collaboration to locate the signal in a region covering less than 0.1 per cent of the total sky area as viewed from Earth. Fermi independently identified a larger area consistent with that identified by LIGO and Virgo. Astronomers around the globe then directed more than 70 space- and ground-based telescopes toward the event for follow-up observations. "This is the most intensely observed astronomical event in history," said Peter Shawhan, a professor of physics at University of Maryland (UMD) and an LSC principal investigator. "For the binary black hole mergers LIGO has already observed, the signals were much shorter--just a fraction of a second," said Alessandra Buonanno, a UMD College Park Professor of Physics and LSC principal investigator. "We were able to track the evolution of GW170817 over time in a way we could not achieve for two black holes. As we continue to examine the signal, this wealth of data will likely allow us to pursue new and more stringent gravitational tests, which could put Einstein's theory of general relativity in question." Theorists have predicted that when neutron stars collide, they should give off gravitational waves and gamma rays, along with powerful jets that emit light across the electromagnetic spectrum. The new observations confirm that at least some short gamma-ray bursts are generated by the merging of neutron stars--something that was only theorized before. But while one mystery appears to be solved, new mysteries have emerged. The observed short gamma-ray burst was one of the closest to Earth seen so far, yet it was surprisingly weak for its distance. Scientists are beginning to propose models for why this might be the case. "While the results from this event are beyond my wildest dreams, the most exciting part is that this is really just the beginning," said Brad Cenko, principal investigator of the Swift Gamma-ray Burst Mission at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Centre. San Francisco, Oct 17 : After a US Senator wrote to Apple CEO Tim Cook, conveying concerns on users' security with Face ID biometric security in iPhone X, Apple has responded to him, detailing Face ID's built-in security features. In September, Senator Al Franken (Democrat-Minnesota) had asked several questions related to Apple's implementation of the Face ID technology. Franken had asked Cook to reply to his concerns by October 13. According to a report in Appleinsider on Tuesday, Apple Vice President for Public Policy Cynthia Hogan has clarified Franken's concerns in a letter. "Face ID confirms the presence of an attentive face (via gaze detection), projects and reads a depth map of a user's face and sends that information to the Secure Enclave for processing. "Face ID data, which includes a mathematical representation of a user's face, is encrypted and never leaves the device," Hogan wrote. "Data sent to the Secure Enclave is not sent to Apple or included in device backups. Further, 2D face images and corresponding depth map information captured for normal unlock operations are immediately discarded once the mathematical representation is calculated for comparison against an enrolled Face ID profile," Apple said in the letter. Franken also issued a statement regarding Apple's response. "I appreciate Apple's willingness to engage with my office on these issues, and I'm glad to see the steps that the company has taken to address consumer privacy and security concerns," said Franken, who is the member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology and the Law. Face ID uses 'TrueDepth' camera system made up of a dot projector, infrared camera and flood illuminator, and is powered by A11 Bionic to accurately map and recognise a face. Face ID projects more than 30,000 invisible IR dots. The IR image and dot pattern are pushed through neural networks to create a mathematical model of your face and send the data to the secure enclave to confirm a match, while adapting to physical changes in appearance over time. Apple has always been reluctant to let enforcement agencies get into its hardware security technology. In 2016, Apple refused to comply with a court order after federal prosecutors tried to unlock an iPhone tied to a 2015 terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California. Bhubaneswar, Oct 17 : Close on the heels of sensational Koraput gang-rape case, a group of miscreants allegedly gang-raped a college student in presence of her fiance in Odisha's Ganjam district, police said on Tuesday. Six persons have been arrested for their suspected involvement in the incident. According to police, a student of Plus-Three Second Year, hailing from Bhanjanagar of Ganjam, was allegedly gang-raped by six persons at a forest near Budhakendu Thakurani Temple in Gangapur area of the district on Monday. The incident came to light after the victim and her fiance lodged a complaint with the police. The accused intercepted the victim when she was returning home with her fiance after visiting the temple. They thrashed the fiance and dragged the victim to a nearby cashew forest and allegedly gang-raped her. "I had gone to the temple with my fiance to offer prayers. When we were returning, six people dragged me to the nearby forest and thrashed my fiance. (Each) one of them raped me, whereas others filmed it," said the victim. "We were returning from the temple after having darshan at around 3.30 p.m on Monday. Six persons came on two bikes and intercepted us. They thrashed me and snatched away our mobile phones from us. They took her to a nearby forest and raped her," the fiance of the victim said. Ashish Singh, Ganjam Superintendent of Police, said: "All the six have been arrested and will be produced in the court. We are investigating the case." A case has been registered over the incident at Gangapur Police Station. The accused and the woman would undergo medical examination and then the accused would be produced in the court, said Utkal Keshari Dash, Bhanjanagar Sub-Divisional Police Officer. Meanwhile, the police are yet to nab the culprits involved in the Class IX girl gang-rape case in Koraput district on October 10. The victim has alleged that the four men were armed and dressed as security personnel. Kabul, Oct 17 : Twin suicide bombings and gunfire on a police training centre in Afghanistan's eastern province of Paktia on Tuesday killed at least 41 people including the provincial police chief and wounded over 200 others, officials said. The dead also included training centre members, police personnel and civilians. The toll could rise further as some of the injured were said to be in critical condition, Khaama Press reported. The attack, claimed by the Taliban, took place in Gardez city, 100 km south of Kabul and the capital of Paktia province that borders Pakistan. The number of attackers was six, all equipped with suicide vests and light arms, according to the security forces. The provincial police chief who died was identified as Toryalai Abdyani. The attack began around 9.30 a.m. when a suicide bomber detonated himself outside a police barrack and followed it up with a car bomb, a spokesperson for Paktia Governor Abdullah Hasrat told Efe news agency. The deafening explosion was followed by gunfire as the militants stormed the police centre and the security personnel fought back. The number of militants killed remained unknown. The Interior Ministry said the area was now under the control of security forces and that two of the attackers were killed by the security forces. In June, six Taliban fighters had attacked the same barracks, killing 11 people and wounding 20. Over the last two-and-a-half years, the Afghan government has been losing ground to an aggressive Taliban and now controls only 57 per cent of the country, according to the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). SIGAR data also shows that between January and November 2016, at least 6,785 Afghan security personnel were killed and 11,777 wounded, coinciding with an escalation in the conflict. Valletta, Oct 17 : The son of an investigative journalist killed in a car bomb attack in Malta has hit out bitterly at the island's "culture of impunity" and the "crooks" in charge. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, who led the Panama Papers investigation into corruption in Malta, died in an explosion shortly after she left her home in Bidnija, near Mosta, on Monday, the Guardian reported. Her car, a Peugeot 108, was destroyed by an explosive device so powerful that it scattered large pieces of the car around a nearby field. "My mother was assassinated because she stood between the rule of law and those who sought to violate it," Matthew Caruana Galizia wrote in a Facebook post. "But she was also targeted because she was the only person doing so. This is what happens when the institutions of the state are incapacitated: the last person left standing is often a journalist. Which makes her the first person left dead." Several thousand people gathered at an impromptu candlelit vigil in Sliema, near the island's capital Valletta, on Monday night to mourn the journalist, described as a "one-woman WikiLeaks" whose blogs were as fiercely critical of the island's politicians as they were of its organised crime gangs. The slain journalist's son said he would never forget "running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it". Caruana Galizia, 53, ran a hugely-popular blog highlighting cases of alleged high-level corruption among politicians across Malta's party lines. "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate," she wrote in a post published barely half an hour before the bomb exploded. Witnesses told police the journalist had just left her home and was on a road near the village of Bidnija in northern Malta when the bomb detonated. The local media reported she had filed a complaint to the police two weeks ago to say she had received threats. Caruana Galizia's most recent revelations pointed the finger at Malta's Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and two of his closest aides, connecting offshore companies linked to the three men with the sale of Maltese passports and payments from the government of Azerbaijan. Muscat denounced the journalist's killing, calling it a "barbaric attack on press freedom", and announced that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation had agreed to send a team of experts to help local police investigate. European politicians expressed shock and dismay at her death. "A dark day for democracy," tweeted Manfred Weber, a leading conservative MEP. European Commission Vice-President Frans Timmermans tweeted that he was "shocked and outraged". Over the last two years, the slain journalist's reporting had largely focused on revelations from the Panama Papers, a cache of 11.5 million documents leaked from the internal database of the world's fourth largest offshore law firm, Mossack Fonseca. New Delhi, Oct 17 : While we are busy ensuring that the festival of lights is welcomed with perfect preparations, we may tend to overlook caring for ourselves. Care for your skin and hair, suggest experts. Besides cleansing the skin before sleeping, it is important to care for your hair. Skip products like hair mousse, opt for blow dry instead. Amit Sarda, Managing Director at skincare brand Soulflower, Shikhee Agarwal, Head Trainer at The Body Shop India and make-up expert Shahnaz Husain have shared inputs. Skincare tips: Cleansing the face at the beginning and end of the day is a very vital part of this routine. If you are used to wearing make-up, cleansing becomes all the more important. Our skin needs to remain moisturised as much as possible. One of the easiest ways to compensate the lack of moisture for skin is by the use of carrier oil like grapeseed. This carrier oil lightens marks and dark circles, tightens and tones skin, and helps skin become baby soft. It also helps lighten blemishes, stretch marks, sunburn, controls itchiness and irritation. Treat your skin with Vitamin E and essential oil rich creams and oils which protect skin. Remember to complete your intake of water of 8-10 glasses, which is the best way to a glowing skin. Wrap up your skincare routine with a smear of sunscreen. Use a powerful UV protection which fights free radicals and keeps your skin ever glowing. Follow your grandmother's recipe of a healthy scrub bath on the morning of Diwali with the choicest nourishing scrubs available in the market. Experience the richness of shea, olive and xemenia which have rich oils and will hydrate the skin. They help in exfoliating the dead skin cells and stimulating the blood circulation, which gives a fresh look to the skin. It might look like a very cruel advice for the festive season, but it is important to keep the consumption of sweets in control. Over dosage of fried and sugary foods can lead to breakouts, weight gain, dull looking skin and a lot of allergies too. To brighten tired eyes, take two used tea bags, soak them in a little warm water, squeeze out the water and apply on the eyes like eye pads. Cotton wool, soaked in rose water, can also do the trick. Haircare tips: During Diwali, we do experiment with different hair styles and they also become exposed to pollution. Washing hair with rosemary lavender shampoo bar will provide it with the kind of nutrition that hair needs to become voluminous and get the bounce it needs. Enriched with refreshing lavender and rejuvenating properties of rosemary the small molecules penetrate into your hair right from the first wash. Islamabad, Oct 17 : Two suspected US drone strikes on Tuesday killed 11 people on the mountainous Pakistan-Afghanistan border even as Pakistan cautioned the US to show restraint. Tuesday's strike was the third drone strike in the area in the last 24 hours. Geo News said the attack in Anjargi area targeted the hideouts of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamat-ul-Ahrar and Haqqani network. On Monday evening, US drone strikes reportedly left nearly 20 militants dead. Pakistan Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif then cautioned the US that it should not conduct any attack in Afghanistan or Pakistan at a time when the Afghan peace talks had resumed in Oman. "The US should show restraint on drone strikes anywhere in Afghanistan or Pakistan," he said. Asif also expressed hope that the four-nation meet in Oman to find ways of reviving peace talks with Afghan Taliban militants would yield positive results. Afghanistan, China, Pakistan and the US met in Oman on Monday to try to revive Afghan-Taliban peace settlement. The four-nation Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QGC), which last met in Islamabad early last year, has been trying to ease the path to direct talks between Kabul and the Taliban. The report said the Tuesday drone fired two missiles at a house in Kuch Kurram. The political administration of the tribal region, however, said the drone attacks did not happen on the Pakistani side of the border. Six missile strikes were reportedly carried out on Monday. The Pakistani officials said several missiles were fired on a compound of the Haqqani terror network, leaving at least 20 dead. The target of the air strikes was believed to be a commander of the Haqqani terrorist network identified as Abu Bakar. US officials have repeatedly spoken out against the Haqqani network, which some analysts say enjoys the covert patronage of the Pakistani intelligence. New Delhi, Oct 17 : Dozens of shops were found selling firecrackers in Delhi on Tuesday as police moved to ensure strict implementation of a Supreme Court order banning the sale and purchase of crackers in the capital due to pollution concerns around Diwali. No firecracker shop in the capital would be allowed to open till October 31. Dozens were forced to shut on Tuesday, Delhi Police spokesperson Madhur Verma said. "We are following the apex court guidelines against shopkeepers found selling firecrackers and are also taking action as per the law. The police is on tight vigil to ensure that no one violates the court guidelines," Verma told IANS. He said action had been against shopkeepers who were caught selling crackers. "Five such shopkeepers were caught from Sadar Bazar and Lahori Gate areas. Dozens of others were found (selling firecrackers) in New Delhi district areas during surprise checks. All SHOs have been directed to ensure that no one sells firecrackers." Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Chinmoy Biswal said details from all SHOs were being collected to ascertain how many shops were found violating the court order and "action will be taken against the violators". The court imposed the ban on October 9 - upholding a November 11, 2016 order, suspending all licences that "permit sale of fireworks wholesale and retail within the territory of NCR". The Supreme Court ban will remain in place till November 1. Diwali falls on October 19. The sale of firecrackers shoots up two to three days before the festival. Firecracker traders and shopkeepers are disappointed with the police action. They said without firecrackers there will be no Diwali celebrations. An analysis by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India's nodal pollution watchdog, says air and noise pollution in Delhi after Diwali last year was found to have increased alarmingly. "I have firecrackers in bulk for nearly Rs 25 Lakh from a manufacturer in advance, some three months before the Supreme Court ban. The court should have imposed this ban earlier. We would not have invested," Satyam Aggarwal, a shopkeeper from Sadar Bazar, told IANS. Aggarwal said all his savings had gone down the drain, "much like other thousands of small and big shopkeepers" selling crackers. "I do not have any option left to store the goods and would try my luck waiting for Diwali next year 2018 to sell them if there is no ban." Another shopkeeper, Ram Singhal, asked if firecrackers were the only source of pollution in Delhi and NCR. "What about trucks, buses, diesel and petrol cars, bikes, industrial pollution, garbage, cutting of trees. These should also be banned." Agartala, Oct 17 : In view of the large scale Rohingya influx into Bangladesh, security along the India-Bangladesh borders has been further tightened to prevent any such infiltration into the northeastern region. "We have further alerted our troopers posted along the borders with Bangladesh. BSF personnel supervised by the senior officials intensified their patrolling along the borders to prevent any kind of influx, especially of the Rohingyas," BSF's Tripura frontier Inspector General S.R. Ojha told the media here on Tuesday. He said: "Since 2015, many Rohingyas infiltrated into Tripura and other northeastern states via Bangladesh in search of jobs. But after the recent turmoil in Myanmar's Rakhine state, no Rohingya entered the region." Director General of Police (DGP) Akhil Kumar Shukla said: "Though Tripura has no border with Myanmar, we have asked the BSF to further strengthen security along the 856-km boundary with Bangladesh." "Over 18 battalions of para-military troopers were earlier deployed along the India-Bangladesh border with Tripura. We have asked the BSF to also deploy their training battalions in these frontiers," the police chief told the media. BSF officials looking after security along the Bangladesh border with Tripura and Mizoram said: "Our commanders are taking suitable steps to thwart any attempt by the Rohingyas who are fleeing Myanmar, from entering Indian territories. The BSF is also prepared to deal with any eventuality." On many occasions in the past, Rohingyas had entered Tripura and a few other northeastern states via Bangladesh illegally in search of jobs. Subsequently, they were pushed back to Bangladesh following legal and security formalities. India shares a 4,096-km-long border with Bangladesh in the states of West Bengal (2,216 km), Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Mizoram (318 km) and Assam (263 km). Large parts of these borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar are riverine, mountainous and unfenced, thereby enabling illegal immigrants, intruders and smugglers to cross over without much of a problem. Pune, Oct 17 : The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) on Tuesday paid tribute to late actor Tom Alter. "FTII will be paying tribute to Late Tom Alter, who was serving as Head, Department of Acting at FTII," read a post from the official Twitter handle of the institute. Alter's son Jamie and actor Benjamin Gilani paid a tribute to the talent powerhouse, who worked actively in the theatre circuit, cinema and television. As part of the event, they played Shreejoni Nag's "Safar", the last FTII short film featuring the actor. They also showcased Rajesh Shera's "Ocean Of An Old Man". Alter died last month after losing a battle with skin cancer. He was 67. Known for starring in television shows like "Zabaan Sambhalke", "Bharat Ek Khoj", "Junoon" and "Betaal Pachisi", he was an American-origin actor settled in India. He had a flourishing career on stage, and on the big screen he has played pivotal roles in successful films like "Gandhi", "Shatranj Ke Khilari", "Kranti", "Aashiqui" and "Parinda". He not only worked in Bollywood films, but also took up projects in Assamese, Gujarati, Kannada, Kumaoni, Marathi and Malayalam cinema. In 2008, he was recognised with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour of India. He last featured in a television show "Rishton Ka Chakravyuh", and on the big screen, he was seen in "Sargoshiyan". Latest updates on Gandhi Jayanti 2019 New York, Oct 17 : A machine learning tool can help identify which high-risk breast lesions are likely to become cancerous with 97 per cent accuracy, an advance that may help reduce unnecessary surgeries, a study has revealed. High-risk breast lesions are biopsy-diagnosed lesions that carry an increased risk of developing into cancer. Surgery is often the preferred treatment option. But a lot of the lesions do not pose an immediate danger to patients. However, doctors tend to over-screen for breast cancer. Using the machine learning tool could help improve detection as well as prevent over treatment, said researchers from Harvard University. The findings showed that the tool could avoid almost one-third of benign surgeries with accurate prediction of 37 out of 38 lesions, or 97 per cent, that were upgraded to cancer. The tool, described in the journal Radiology, also identified the terms "severely" and "severely atypical" in the text of the pathology reports as associated with a greater risk of upgrade to cancer. "Our study provides 'proof of concept' that machine learning can not only decrease unnecessary surgery by nearly one-third in this specific patient population, but can also support more targeted, personalised approaches to patient care," said Constance Lehman, Professor at Harvard Medical School. "Our goal is to apply the tool in clinical settings to help make more informed decisions as to which patients will be surveilled and which will go on to surgery," added lead author and radiologist Manisha Bahl, from Massachusetts General Hospital. New Delhi, Oct 17 : The Delhi High Court on Tuesday refused to set aside a trial court order to frame charges against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler and controversial businessman Abhishek Verma in a corruption case. Dismissing the pleas of Tytler and Kumar against framing of corruption charges, Justice Ashutosh Kumar said: "This court is of the view that the prosecution of the petitioners ought not to be thwarted at this stage. "No case for interference has been made out on behalf of the petitioners," he added. On December 9, 2015, the trial court ordered both to face trial for allegedly using a forged letter addressed to then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2009. The trial court's order had come on a complaint by then Minister of State for Home Ajay Maken that a forged letter on his letterhead was written to Manmohan Singh by Verma, seeking easing of business visa norms. Tytler and Verma were chargesheeted on charge of attempted cheating and the Prevention of Corruption Act. The Central Bureau of Investigation has alleged that Tytler "actively connived" with Verma to cheat a Chinese telecom firm and that the Congress leader had shown a "fake and forged" letter to the company officials, claiming it was written by Maken to the Prime Minister. The High Court took into consideration the fact that pursuant to the framing of charges, 13 prosecution witnesses had been examined. "Coming to the facts of the present case, it would appear that the trial court has come to the conclusion that the offences for which the petitioner has been charged are prima facie made out for trial," the High Court said. It added: "Thus, charge against a person can be framed if the court forms an opinion that the accused might have committed the offence. For the conviction of an accused, the court has to come to the conclusion that the accused must have committed the offence. "This is not the requirement at the time of framing of the charge. The probative value of the materials on record cannot be gone into. However, there should be an application of judicial mind. But whether an accused committed the offence, can only be decided in the trial." The trial court had said that prima facie, both accused had tried to cheat officials of ZTE Telecom India Pvt Ltd on the basis of the forged letter and Verma had demanded a bribe of Rs 50 lakh to sort out the visa issue of its employees. New Delhi, Oct 17 : An inter-governmental task force to curb illegal killing of birds crossing one of the world's greatest migration paths will be high on the agenda at this year's largest wildlife summit beginning this month, an official said on Tuesday. The East Asian-Australasian Flyway spans 22 countries from the Russian Federation to Alaska in the United States in the north, through much of Eastern Asia to the Western Pacific and Australia and New Zealand in the south. Millions of migratory birds, which travel along the Flyway twice yearly, will receive greater protection if the proposal is adopted. Delegates from over 120 countries will gather in the Philippines from October 23 to 28 for the 12th triennial meeting of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) or COP12, where they will consider the submission. "Intensive hunting and illegal killings are driving many endangered bird species to the brink of extinction. Countries which they transit share a joint responsibility to implement measures to protect them," CMS Executive Secretary Bradnee Chambers said in an official statement. According to Chambers, the proposed task force for the East Asian-Australasian Flyway feeds into a wider, collaborative strategy to combat global wildlife crime and strengthen efforts to ensure that migratory species are managed sustainably and legally. The Task Force on Illegal Hunting, Taking and Trade of Migratory Birds in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway will build on the successes of a similar initiative for migratory birds in the Mediterranean, agreed upon at COP11 in Quito in Ecuador in 2014. The Mediterranean task force has proved to be a key forum to promote the exchange of best practices and information between countries facing the challenges and also with other members of the task force. Migratory birds face many threats over the long distances they travel. Most notable is the destruction of their habitats, which are critical for feeding, resting and breeding. Yet, in many parts of the world, birds are being deliberately and illegally killed, trapped, or traded at an unprecedented scale. According to BirdLife International, around 25 million birds are killed annually in the Mediterranean, with some species now at risk, including the pallid harriers, Egyptian vultures and several species of songbird. In India, too, millions of migratory birds descend across the country to avoid the extreme winter chill in their native habitats. Many of them never return to their breeding grounds, say ornithologists. Scientists, mainly from Mysuru's Nature Conservation Foundation, during their recent fieldwork in 27 wetlands in Tamil Nadu's Kanchipuram district, estimated that at least 1,700 waterbirds, mainly large and medium-sized, are hunted every year in each wetland. They say hunting is widespread from December to April -- the peak season for winter migrants. "This translates to hundreds of thousands of waterbirds being killed every year across India in non-protected wetlands. Such a high scale of hunting was unknown previously, and is not sustainable," Ramesh Ramachandran, a Research Associate with the Cranes and Wetlands Programme of the Nature Conservation Foundation, told IANS. In Tamil Nadu alone, the winter migrants include the ruff -- a medium-sized wading bird that breeds in marshes, common sandpiper, great cormorant, common teal, red-crested pochard and common pochard. "All of these migratory species are falling prey to poaching," he added. Ghaziabad, Oct 17 : Former Congress MLA Amar Pal Sharma, wanted for the killing of a BJP leader, surrendered in a court here on Tuesday, police said. Sharma, who once represented Sahibabad constituency in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, gave himself up after the police announced a reward of Rs 25,000 on his head. They also obtained a court order to attach his assets. Earlier, the police had arrested a contract killer who killed the BJP leader, Gajendra Bhati, in Khoda locality bordering Delhi after allegedly striking a deal for Rs 10 lakh. The criminal told police that he killed Bhati at Sharma's behest. Sharma has now been sent to the Dasna Jail, Ghaziabad's Senior Superintendent of Police H.N. Singh said. London, Oct 17 : Online retailers are removing a children's Halloween costume from their websites after facing a backlash over the attire designed to make kids look like teenage Holocaust victim Anne Frank. Several sites ceased selling the outfit while others continued to market it as a "World War Two evacuee girl", the BBC reported on Tuesday. The costume -- a green beret, blue dress and brown satchel -- was criticised on social media for being "insensitive". Anne Frank's famous diary tells of her life as a German Jew in hiding in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam in World War II. Its account of the two years her family spent living in a secret annexe of her father's business premises made her a household name and she became a symbol of courage, optimism and determination. The Franks were eventually betrayed, arrested and transported to the Auschwitz camp in occupied Poland. Otto Frank, Anne's father, was the only family member to survive the war. People took to Twitter to express their anger. Images shared on social media showed the costume was initially advertised on sites such as HalloweenCostumes.com -- which uses the Twitter handle @funcostumes -- as a "WW2 Anne Frank Girls Costume". "Now your child can play the role of a World War Two hero," the original description read. "It comes with a blue button-up dress, reminiscent of the kind of clothing that might be worn by a young girl" at the time, it added. Carlos Galindo-Elvira, Arizona regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, tweeted that there were better ways to commemorate Anne Frank. "We should not trivialise her memory as a costume," he wrote. Halloweencostumes.com later removed the outfit and a spokesman for the retailer apologised for "any offence it may have caused". The product also disappeared from the Walmart website. However, the costume was still available on sites such as Amazon where it was described by the seller as "perfect for carnivals, theme parties and Halloween". Islamabad, Oct 17 : An anti-terrorism court in Multan on Tuesday sentenced a woman to death on two counts after finding her guilty of murdering her husband. A first information report had been registered against the accused, Yasmeen, at Ludden Vehari Police Station in Multan on June 23, Dawn reported. Judge Malik Khalid Mehmood, in his verdict said that Yasmeen has been found guilty of "the brutal and gruesome murder of her husband," Muhammad Imran Ashraf. "The convict sprinkled acid on Muhammad Irfan Ashraf, entailing his death," the verdict noted. Yasmeen was sentenced to death under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 and the Pakistan Penal Code. New Delhi, Oct 17 : The Delhi government on Tuesday decided that residents will take a "call" on the presence of liquor shops in their areas. "The residents of a particular area can now vote out a liquor shop from their area if they face harassment because of the existence of the shop in their area," the government said in a statement. It also said that liquor shops would face public scrutiny if there were problems to the residents. The government communique also said that the residents would now be free to approach their MLAs and district administration with complaints against liquor vends. "Thereafter, the MLA in coordination with the administration will call a meeting of the residents/RWAs and deicide on the future of the liquor shop through a voting and hearing," it said. "Once the voting process and hearing is done, the local police and department of excise will submit a report for the closure of the particular shop," the government said. The government said two liquor shops were voted for closure on October 16 in Rohini. They were located in Sectors 16 and 17. The residents of the two sectors had approached their MLA, Mahendar Goyal, against the two liquor shops. "The MLA, in coordination with the local administration and other stakeholders, called for a meeting of the residents and RWAs at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Office on October 16. "A large number of residents participated and hearing was done. The residents voted out the two liquor joints and majority recommended their closure," it said. Srinagar, Oct 17 : Agitated youths on Tuesday torched the house of a ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) activist who was killed by militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district late on Monday. Later Hizbul militant Showkat Falahi was killed in a scuffle with the family of the slain PDP activist. After attending the funeral of Falahi scores of youth marched to the house of Ramzan in Imam Sahib area and set it ablaze, police sources said. Director General of Police S. P. Vaid said: "A mob on the instigation of terrorists attacked the house of ex-sarpanch who was killed last night." The police and security forces rescued the family of the slain activist, he added. Kabul, Oct 17 : Twin suicide bombings and gunfire on a police training centre in Afghanistan's eastern province of Paktia on Tuesday left at least 53 people dead, including a provincial police chief, and over 150 wounded in a gory terror attack. Among the dead were included training centre members, police personnel and civilians. The toll, which has steadily risen since the first deaths, could go up further as some of those in hospitals were said to be in critical condition. The attack, claimed by the Taliban, took place in Gardez city, 100 km south of Kabul and the capital of Paktia province that borders Pakistan. Deputy Interior Minister Murad Ali Murad told the media in Kabul that the death toll included 21 security personnel and 25 civilians while the number of wounded was 48 security forces members and 110 civilians. All seven militants were also killed in the attack, taking the total death toll to 53. The Interior Ministry said the horrific attack ended with the death of the seven assailants. Two of them used vehicles packed with explosives to target the entrance to the police centre while five others engaged the stunned police in a three-hour gunfight. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed the attack and confirmed the use of two vehicles -- a truck and a stolen police vehicle. "In both attacks tens of police were killed, buildings destroyed," Mujahid said. The provincial police chief who died was identified as Toryalai Abdyani. The attack began around 9.30 a.m. when a suicide bomber detonated himself outside a police barrack and followed it up with a car bomb, a spokesperson for Paktia Governor Abdullah Hasrat told Efe news agency. The deafening explosion was followed by gunfire as the militants stormed the police centre and the security personnel fought back. In June, six Taliban fighters had attacked the same barracks, killing 11 people and wounding 20. Over the last two-and-a-half years, the Afghan government has been losing ground to an aggressive Taliban and now controls only 57 per cent of the country, according to the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). SIGAR data also shows that between January and November 2016, at least 6,785 Afghan security personnel were killed and 11,777 wounded, coinciding with an escalation in the conflict. New Delhi, Oct 17 : The Congress on Tuesday said the BJP's allegations against Robert Vadra were a "politically motivated" effort by the ruling party to divert public attention from the serious allegations against its party President Amit Shah's son Jay Shah. "This is a politically motivated effort by the BJP to divert attention from the serious allegation against Amit Shah's son Jay Shah, whose income grew by 16,000 times in one year, and BJP is trying to divert public attention," Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha told IANS. "They are trying to throttle media freedom. They are actually scared and that's why they are not allowing any investigation to happen," he added. Jha said: "The Congress party will be taking this issue up and take it to the streets of the country. We are already doing a nationwide campaign to expose the corruption of Amit Shah's son." The response came after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) asked the Congress to explain the alleged links between party President Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra and arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. Paris, Oct 17 : Morocco and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) signed an agreement here on Tuesday to create a "National Living Human Treasures System", an essential component of the national cultural heritage. The agreement, signed by Tourism Minister Mohammed Sajid and Unesco Director-General Irina Bokova, is intended to trigger off a process of preserving traditional know-how with the involvement of Moroccan craftsmen. It also aimed to ensure the perpetuation of different trades in danger of disappearing, mainly by the implementation of a National Living Human Treasures System and development of a pedagogical approach that will attract future generations and spark their interest in Moroccan craftsmanship. The agreement, a part of implementing the provisions of the 2003 Unesco Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, sought to provide the national craft sector with a permanent mechanism that will ensure the setting up and regular updating of a national intangible cultural heritage inventory. Lahore, Oct 17 : A Qatari man was arrested at the Lahore airport for trying to smuggle nine falcons worth more than Rs 50 million, the Pakistani media reported on Tuesday. Punjab wildlife official Khalid Ghayas Khan told Dawn that Ahmed Hussain Ali Muhammad-ul-Saada had hidden the falcons in a large black bag. He was arrested by a vigilance police squad at the Allama Iqbal International Airport. Nearly 5,000 to 6,000 falcons are trapped and smuggled out of Pakistan every year and sold to sheikhs in the Middle East. Falcons migrate thousands of miles to escape the harsh winters of Siberia, making stops for rest before continuing their journey to warmer regions in the south. Damascus, Oct 17 : A US-backed militia on Tuesday announced that it has taken full control of Raqqa, the northern Syrian city that once served as the capital of the Islamic State caliphate. Fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces, an ethnically-mixed militia led by Kurds that had launched an offensive on the city in the past few weeks, were now combing the area for any remaining combatants, although they announced via the messaging app Telegram that Raqqa was now completely free of IS fighters, Efe reports. Nuri Mahmoud, spokesman for the People's Protection Units (YPG) -- the SDF's Kurdish section -- said that his forces were making sure Raqqa had been cleared of IS fighters, particularly in the vicinity of the national hospital. Mahmoud said he could assert that 99 percent of Raqqa was clear of IS fighters, adding that the SDF had to complete the operation of deactivating mines and getting rid of the remnants of the organisation at the hospital. Earlier, SDF spokesman Talal Sello confirmed to Efe that the militia had complete control of Raqqa but could not confirm the end of IS presence there. He added that the SDF would soon publish a statement officially proclaiming the complete liberation of the former IS stronghold. On June 6, the SDF, backed by the US-led international coalition, began the assault on the city, which had been taken by the IS in January 2014, when it proclaimed its caliphate and declared Raqqa its capital. New Delhi, Oct 17 : A court here on Tuesday granted bail to an Intelligence Bureau official, a Delhi Police Inspector and two alleged middlemen in a case related to transfer and postings of government officials. Special Judge Virender Kumar Goyal granted bail to IB Assistant Director Kameshwar, Delhi Police Inspector Banay Singh Meena and two alleged middlemen Rajan Kumar and Arun Tiwari, directing them to furnish personal bonds of Rs 50,000 each. A chargesheet was filed against the four by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on October 7. On August 11, the CBI had arrested the IB and Delhi Police officials, two days after registering an FIR against them. Rajan and Arun were arrested later. According to the CBI FIR, Meena, posted in the Delhi Police Security Wing, conspired with Tiwari for "ensuring undue favours related to transfers and postings of public servants" and paid him a bribe of Rs 10 lakh which was to be delivered to Rajan Kumar in "coordination" with the IB official. The CBI has conducted searches at four locations in Delhi and seized Rs 1.6 crore and rubber stamps of various ministries and fake letterheads of government officials from the residences of the accused. Chandigarh, Oct 17 : Unidentified assailants shot dead Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Ravinder Gosai on Tuesday in Punjab's Ludhiana city as he was returning from a RSS 'shaka'. The Punjab Police have not made any arrests so far. Gosai, 58, was near his house when he was attacked. He was the Sangh Pracharak (regional missionary) at the RSS Mohan shakha in Ludhiana. Eyewitnesses told police that Gosai was shot from close range by two motorcycle-borne assailants in Kailash Nagar area. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. CCTV footage of nearby areas showed that the two assailants, wearing turbans with their faces covered, were moving in the locality since morning. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who was at the Hussainiwala border in Punjab's Ferozepur district on Tuesday, raised the issue with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh. Amarinder Singh said the police was working on some leads and would nab the culprits soon. BJP and RSS leaders in Punjab condemned the incident and pointed out that law and order situation in Punjab had deteriorated under the present Congress government. Tuesday's killing is the fifth of a right-wing leader in Punjab in the last three years. The Punjab Police have failed to nab those behind most of the killings. Senior Punjab RSS leader Brigadier Jagdish Gagneja (retd) was shot by unidentified motor-cycle borne youths in a busy area of Jalandhar city on August 6, 2016. Gagneja was critically injured and succumbed to his injuries a month later. His assailants continue to be at large. Leaders of Hindu organizations have been attacked and killed in some other incidents in Gurdaspur and Khanna towns earlier. Shiv Sena leader Durga Prasad Gupta was gunned down in Punjab's Khanna town, 75 km from here, in April 2016. Shiv Sena leader Harinder Soni was shot at by unidentified assailants while he was on a walk in a secured area of Gurdaspur town in north Punjab in April 2015. In two separate incidents, unidentified persons fired shots at RSS activists in Ludhiana city in January and February last year. Patna, Oct 17 : Speculation about RLSP chief and Union Minister of State for HRD Upendra Kushwaha joining hands with RJD chief Lalu Prasad is rife in political circles here following a secret meeting between the two on Monday night. The Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) is an ally in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre. Upendra Kushwaha and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief had a long meeting, in which discussions veered around likely political moves, an RJD leader said on Tuesday. "They held a one-on-one meeting and discussed current political scenario in Bihar and likely political moves ahead of the 2019 general elections," the RJD leader considered close to Lalu Prasad said. According to RJD leaders, Lalu Prasad has no problem in projecting Upendra Kushwaha as the chief ministerial candidate in Bihar Assembly polls in 2020 after his party joins hands with their party. However, they insisted that the RLSP chief would have to walk out of the NDA to contest next Lok Sabha polls with the RJD. "Both Lalu Prasad and Upendra Kushwaha have begun discussion on it," the RJD man said. Two days ago, a senior RLSP leader Nagmani mooted the idea of projecting Upendra Kushwaha as the next Chief Minister of Bihar at a party rally organised here. Earlier, much to the surprise of BJP, the RLSP had demanded that Upendra Kushwaha be declared NDA's chief ministerial candidate for the Bihar assembly polls in 2015. According to the RLSP leaders, the party chief has been eyeing the Chief Minister's chair and could change sides for it. In this backdrop, the meeting of Lalu Prasad and Upendra Kushwaha is an alarm bell for the BJP and the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) of Nitish Kumar. "If Laluji can accept Nitish Kumar as Chief Minister, he will have no problems promoting Upendra Kushwaha as the chief ministerial candidate in case he join hands with him...it's simple. Laluji's younger son and former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav is young...he can wait for a few years," a senior RJD leader said. Upendra Kushwaha was upset that despite the RLSP being an NDA constituent, Nitish Kumar had refused to induct ministers from the party in his cabinet in July after he formed the new government with the BJP in July-end this year. What angered him more was that Nitish Kumar informed BJP leaders that he would keep RLSP out of the government and the BJP is believed to have kept mum on the issue. "BJP ally LJP's leader Pashupati Kumar Paras (younger brother of Union Minister and LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan) was inducted into the Cabinet of Nitish Kumar when he (Paras) was not even a member of the legislative assembly. He was defeated in the 2015 assembly polls. But Paswan put pressure on the BJP to accommodate him in the cabinet," an RLSP leader said. It is widely known that Nitish Kumar has strong reservations about Upendra Kushwaha, who has repeatedly attacked and targeted him in the last three years. Kushwaha is a friend-turned-foe of Nitish Kumar in the state politics. Upendra Kushwaha is said to be unhappy with top BJP leaders and uncomfortable with Nitish Kumar's JD-U's entry into the NDA. "He (Upendra Kushwaha) had refused to resign from the Union Cabinet last month after being asked by BJP President Amit Shah during the reshuffle of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Cabinet... But it was embarrassing for him," the RLSP leader said. In all probability, if the party leader are to be believed, the RLSP chief is set to jump onto the RJD bandwagon, but when does Upendra Kushwaha decide to make it public is anybody's guess at the moment. In the caste-ridden politics of Bihar, Lalu Prasad is planning a new social engineering by wooing Upendra Kushwaha, who is a Koeri, a powerful OBC caste after Yadav. Koeris form around 7 to 8 per cent votes in Bihar. Lalu Yadav is fully aware that his own castemen Yadavs and Muslims are with him and support of Koeri will change the political arithmetic in the state. Besides Kushwaha, the RJD chief is also trying to rope in former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, President of Hindustan Awami Morcha. Manjhi, a Mahadalit, is not happy with the BJP after he was left in the lurch despite repeated promises to place him either in the Union cabinet or in a Raj Bhavan. Chennai, Oct 17 : Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said that M.S. Subbulakshmi remained an unsurpassed phenomenon in Carnatic music and an epitome of grace, respected by one and all. "MS Amma was the face of Indian Carnatic music for several decades. She captivated the hearts of billions, not only in Tamil nadu, South India or India but in the entire world," he said while addressing a gathering at the birth centenary commemoration of Subbulakshmi here, a press release said. "Setting aside mere gimmicks and gymnastics of classical music, she delved deep into the soul of the music and brought forth the treasures from there, not only to the pundits or the elite but also to the common man," he added. Naidu said that the Nightingale of India by her voice rose to heights "where all differences vanished and she took us there with her". "Titans on the opposite sides of ideology, the likes of Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajaji, united and stood together when it came to appreciating the music that flowed in her mellifluous voice...Even Mahatma Gandhi was spellbound when he listened to her rendition of 'Vaishnava Janatho'," he said. Chandigarh, Oct 17 : Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday that India wanted cordial and peaceful relations with Pakistan and "expected reciprocity" from Islamabad. The minister, who arrived at the Hussainiwala joint checkpost between India and Pakistan in Punjab's Ferozepur district to open a new viewers' gallery and museum, said: "India wants cordial and peaceful relations with its neighbour. India has taken many initiatives to ensure that both the neighbouring countries co-exist in an atmosphere of peace and mutual trust. "We expect reciprocity to our repeated overtures of friendship and goodwill from Pakistan in future," Rajnath Singh said in his address. Hussainiwala border is about 250 km from here. Pakistan Punjab Minister of Industries Shiekh Allauddin was present in the viewers' gallery and exchanged greetings with Rajnath Singh. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and Border Security Force (BSF) Director General K.K. Sharma were also present on the occasion. Terming the BSF as the first wall of defence of the country, Rajnath Singh lauded its troopers who he said guarded the border whatever the weather. The Home Minister said people living in border areas were strategic assets for the country. He urged the BSF personnel to take care of the border residents while performing their duties. Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to martyrs Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev at the memorial at Hussainiwala. Ghaziabad, Oct 17 : Former Uttar Pradesh MLA Amar Pal Sharma, wanted for the killing of a BJP leader, surrendered in a court here on Tuesday, police said. Sharma, who once represented Sahibabad constituency in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, gave himself up after the police announced a reward of Rs 25,000 on his head. They also obtained a court order to attach his assets. Earlier, the police had arrested a contract killer who shot dead the BJP leader, Gajendra Bhati, in Khoda locality bordering Delhi. The criminal allegedly told police that he killed Bhati at Sharma's behest. Sharma, who was initially with the Bahujan Samaj Party but later joined the Congress, has now been sent to the Dasna Jail, Ghaziabad's Senior Superintendent of Police H.N. Singh said. Yogesh Bhati, the brother of the deceased, told the police that his brother was shot dead at Sharma's behest. Sharma, the former MLA, insisted that that he was being framed due to political reasons. He sought a CBI probe in the case. Bengaluru/New Delhi, Oct 17 : After the BJP asked the Congress to explain alleged links of party President Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra with arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, the Congress on Tuesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi can get "any investigation" done in the matter. "Modiji has been in power for 41 months. They (BJP) have governments in Haryana and Rajasthan, and can conduct any investigation into allegations against Vadra to come to a conclusion through a free and fair process of law of any wrongdoing," said Congress Spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala at a news conference here. "What prevents them from initiating an inquiry against Vadra if they have proof of any wrongdoing," Surjewala questioned. Robert Vadra put out a philosophical message on Facebook, saying: "I am capable, I am strong. If I believe in myself, I can turn my dreams into a plan, and my plan into my reality." On Tuesday, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman questioned in Delhi the "silence" of the Congress leadership on the Vadra issue. She was referring to media reports about reported links between Vadra and arms dealer Bhandari, who has fled to the UK. TimesNow news channel had claimed to have accessed emails to establish that Vadra and Bhandari were in touch with each other. TimesNow and Republic TV news channels were barred from covering Surjewala's news conference here on Tuesday. "Journalism should mirror the truth and not become mirror of the BJP," Surjewala commented. The Congress Spokesman said the party (Congress) demands Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah's resignation in view of the alleged discrepancies in Shah's son Jay Shah's business, Temple Enterprise Private Limited. "Until 2013-14, total borrowings of his company was mere Rs 1.3 crore. In what circumstances did the borrowings increase 400 times to Rs 53.5 crore within a year of the formation of the BJP-led government?" Surjewala asked. On the other hand, the BJP had rubbished the allegations and said Shah's business was "perfectly legitimate and legal". New Delhi, Oct 17 : Protesting against the apex court order banning firecrackers due to air pollution concerns around Diwali, 14 persons including three women were detained on Tuesday for bursting firecrackers in front of the Supreme Court here. Police said a call was made to the Police Control Room (PCR) at around 6 p.m regarding some persons demonstrating and bursting firecrackers in front of 'D' gate of the Supreme Court. "The Station House Officer (SHO) of Tilak Marg Police Station, along with other police personnel, reached the spot and brought the situation under control," Deputy Commissioner of Police B.K. Singh said. The protesters belonged to a little known outfit "Azad Hind Fauz" and they were protesting against the Supreme Court order, Singh said. They 14 persons, led by one Satpal Malhotra were arrested and later released, the police officer added. Islamabad, Oct 17 : The Pakistan Army on Tuesday said there had been no US drone strikes on the Pakistani side of the border in recent days and all military operations had been conducted on the Afghan side of the border. Pakistani media had earlier reported that three US drone strikes had been conducted in the Kurram tribal region over the past two days and killed nearly 31 suspected militants. However, the army said in a statement that no drone strike had taken place in Pakistan. "There has been neither air violation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in that area nor any drone strike in Kurram Agency as being misreported by few. Based on timely sharing, Pakistan Army is vigilant as Anvil on own side along Pakistan-Afghan border," a statement from the army's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations said. The statement said military operations were being conducted in Khost and Paktia provinces in Afghanistan by the Resolute Support Mission (RSM) and Afghan Forces, opposite to Kurram Agency. During last 24 hours, a number of Air engagements have taken place in those areas inside Afghanistan with reports of heavy losses to terrorists, the statement further said. As an outcome of the army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa's visit to Afghanistan on October 1, coordination between the forces of Pakistan and Afghanistan has enhanced. "RSM timely shared details about the said operation within Afghan territory," the Pakistan Army said, adding a better security coordination will take both countries toward enduring peace and stability defeating the common enemy. Washington, Oct 17 : US President Donald Trump's net worth has slid by $600 million to $3.1 billion, the Forbes list of the 400 richest Americans showed on Tuesday. Trump ranks 248th on the billionaires' list this year, dropping 92 spots after coming at 156th last year. The President is now tied with 27-year-old Snap co-founder and CEO Evan Spiegel, the youngest person on the list. The magazine attributed Trump's decline to "a tough New York real estate market, particularly for retail locations; a costly lawsuit and an expensive presidential campaign." Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates topped the list for a 24th consecutive year with a net worth estimated at $89 billion. Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos, worth $81.5 billion, hold on to the second spot, followed by Warren Buffett and Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg. According to Forbes, the combined net worth of the 400 billionaires totaled a record-breaking $2.7 trillion, up from $2.4 trillion in 2016. It also takes a record 2 billion dollars to enter the list, a nearly 18 per cent rise from last year. New Delhi, Oct 17 : A 37-year-old man working as a cook at BJP MP Kunwar Sarvesh Kumar Singh has been arrested for stealing Rs 22 lakh from the politician's official residence in central Delhi, police said on Tuesday. Police said accused Rajkumar of Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh was arrested here on Monday. Singh is Bharatiya Janata Party's Member of Parliament from Moradabad. "On October 9, the BJP leader reported theft of Rs 22 lakh by an unknown man from his official residence on the Mahadev Road here. A case was registered at Parliament Street police station," Deputy Commissioner of Police B.K. Singh said. "In a closed-circuit television footage, Rajkumar was seen leaving the house with a bag and was arrested. He admitted to his crime during questioning. He said he knew about the cash kept in the house. "He went along with Singh to Moradabad, returned on October 7 with keys he had stolen earlier and committed the theft. He then buried the cash box in a deserted field and returned to the Uttar Pradesh town," the DCP added. Khartoum, Oct 18 : Sudan has appreciated the Arab League's support at all regional and international forums as well as on the lifting of US sanctions. Sudan's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said the country would continue commitment to work for the Arab League (AL) objectives, Xinhua reported. It also mentioned the AL's support to adoption of Sudan's rehabilitation project and the initiative by Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir regarding the Arab Food Security. The AL earlier issued a statement welcoming the US decision to lift the economic sanctions imposed on Sudan. It said the US move came in line with the positive measures taken by the Sudanese government to stop hostilities in all conflict areas, improve the delivery and access of humanitarian aid as well as to cooperate with Washington to resolve regional conflicts and counter terrorism. The US has been imposing sanctions on Sudan since 1997 and listing it as one of the countries sponsoring terrorism. Beirut, Oct 18 : China's Ambassador to Lebanon, Wang Kejian, has stressed that Beirut and Beijing could enhance bilateral ties by reviving the Silk Road and re-activating the trade and cultural exchanges between both sides. According to the National News Agency (NNA), Wang was speaking to reporters on Tuesday after meeting with MP Bahia Hariri to discuss bilateral relations and opportunities for development, Xinhua reported. Noting that "positive developments in the relations and stronger ties between the two nations began during late Prime Minister Rafik Hariri's term in office", the envoy stressed that "the ties have been further strengthened with the government of Prime Minister Saad Hariri". The meeting also focused on the situation in Sidon, the third largest city in Lebanon, and possible opening of the city to China. "We will further cooperation between China and Sidon in order to benefit both sides," Wang said. The Chinese ambassador praised Lebanon's openness to the world and the country's interaction with different cultures. The new Silk Road, also known as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, is a Chinese project conceived as a revival of the ancient Silk Road trade route with modern technology that aims to bolster China's global role by building an infrastructure and trade network that links between Asia with Africa and Europe. Wang later met with Sidon Municipal Council head Mohammad Saoudi and South Lebanon's Governor Mansour Daou. Dubai, Oct 18 : The UAE Armed Forces has announced the death of two pilots after their aircraft crashed during an operation in Yemen, a media report said. Commander-in-Chief Ali Saeed Saif Al-Massmari and First Pilot Bader Yahya Mohammed Al-Marashdeh were killed in the crash, a result of "a technical malfunction in the operations of the coalition forces led by Saudi Arabia", said a statement issued on Tuesday by the state-run Emirates News Agency (WAM), Xinhua reported. The General Command of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces extended its condolences to the families of the killed air servicemen. Since March 2015, a Saudi-led military coalition has been fighting the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The UAE is one of the nine Arab states to support Yemen's internationally recognized government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. Midland IRA & 1031 I am very excited to be a part of the midland team. I am looking forward to growing here! Midland IRA, headquartered in Fort Myers and Chicago, hires Corporate Accounting Administrator, Stacey Livingston. She will be working in the expanding Fort Myers office. Midland IRA is a self-directed retirement plan administrator that provides tax-deferred and tax-free investment opportunities, superior customer service, and educational tools to assist investors in realizing the maximum benefits possible in their retirement accounts. The company sets a high standard in providing personal, professional service to their clients across the nation. Stacey Livingston will learn all aspects of the company and will begin her position in the accounting department. Livingston is originally from Chicago, Illinois. She is currently a student at Florida Southwestern State College and plans on transferring to Florida Gulf Coast University in the future. Prior to her opportunity with Midland, Livingston worked in Chicago with Grosvenor Capital Management and Lykes Insurance Company in Fort Myers. In her free time, she enjoys reading, baking, boating, and traveling with her son and husband. When asked about how she felt about her new job Livingston replied, I am very excited to be a part of the Midland team. I am looking forward to growing here! The staff is pleased to welcome Stacy Livingston on board! About Midland IRA Midland IRA is a self-directed IRA administrator that provides tax-deferred and tax-free investment opportunities, superior customer service, and educational tools to assist investors in realizing the maximum benefits possible within IRAs. Midland IRA makes it easy to use self-directed retirement plans to invest in assets that the individual investor knows, understands, and can control. Midland IRA is also a 1031 exchange qualified intermediary. To learn more visit www(dot)MidlandIRA(dot)com. Following last years dedication of its new Veterans Memorial, Center for Hospice Care (CHC) is pleased to host a special Veterans Tribute Ceremony on October 26. This event, which begins at 5:30 pm at CHCs Mishawaka campus, is an opportunity for veterans and families to honor their loved ones service and sacrifice. As a We Honor Veterans Level 4 Partner, CHC is honored to create an opportunity to recognize veterans in such a meaningful and permanent way. Medal of Honor Recipient James McCloughan, who received his medal earlier this year at a White House ceremony, will deliver remarks. Purchased memorial items, such as engraved bricks and plaques, will also be dedicated during the ceremony. A brief reception will follow. For more information or to RSVP for this event, please contact Hannah Birong at 574.243.3119 or rsvp(at)foundationforhospice(dot)org. To learn more about James McCloughan please visit http://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/mccloughan/. About Center for Hospice Care and the Hospice Foundation Established in 1978, Center for Hospice Care is an independent, community-based, not-for-profit organization, improving the quality of living through hospice, home health, grief counseling, and community education. With offices in South Bend, Plymouth, Elkhart and Mishawaka, CHC serves Elkhart, Fulton, Kosciusko, LaGrange, LaPorte, Marshall, St. Joseph and Starke counties in Northern Indiana. The Hospice Foundation is committed to supporting the work of CHC through community outreach and education, fundraising activities and other special events. The Foundation helps CHC keep its 37-year promise that no one eligible for hospice services will be turned away, regardless of their ability to pay. The Distraction podcast, produced by CRN Internationals Collisions division, has added a new sponsor: Landmark College, a Putney, VT, institution for students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or a learning disability such as dyslexia. Landmark College (http://www.landmark.edu) is the perfect tie-in for Distraction (http://www.distractionpodcast.com), a podcast on coping and connecting in our crazy-busy, 24/7 world, hosted by leading ADHD authority and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Ned Hallowell. The show has received rave reviews from listeners and has been featured in iTunes New & Noteworthy and Self-Help categories. The sponsorship program for Landmark includes an integrated offering of mentions within the podcast, custom content, social media, e-blasts and public relations. Dr. Hallowell is so well-regarded in the field of ADD/ADHD studies that its a natural collaboration for Landmark College to sponsor his Distraction podcast, said Mark DiPietro, director of marketing and communications at Landmark College. His goal of helping individuals develop their strengths aligns with Landmark Colleges mission to empower students who learn differently by helping them build strategies and skills for academic success. Dr. Hallowells core audience parents of students with attention and executive function challenges, educators and education professionals no doubt includes many who may want or need to learn more about Landmark College. Said Dr. Hallowell, Landmark College is the world's best destination for a student with a learning difference who wants to advance his or her education in a culture that has the experience, understanding, and skills to provide everything that's needed to build a rugged and reliable foundation for a hugely successful and fulfilling life. While many colleges offer special programs for students with learning disabilities, Landmark College is one of the only accredited colleges in the United States designed exclusively for students who learn differently. Its mission is to transform the way students learn, educators teach, and the public thinks about education. Through the Landmark College Institute for Research and Training, the college aims to extend its mission across the nation and throughout the world. Podcasts have been skyrocketing in popularity, generating loyal and dedicated audiences and attracting advertisers who recognize the value of such a captive audience. CRNs Collisions network of shows has also been expanding. In addition to Distraction, Collisions has developed shows for a range of audiences including: Just the Right Book Podcast (http://www.bookpodcast.com), hosted by independent bookseller Roxanne Coady of RJ Julia Booksellers; Stockton! (http://www.stocktonpodcast.com) hosted by broadcasting legend Dick Stockton; The Car and Driver Podcast, with the editors of Car and Driver magazine; and The Official Sasquatch! Festival Podcast, providing coverage of the Live Nation music festival. Learn more about Distraction on the shows website (http://www.DistractionPodcast.com) and by listening to the show on iTunes. About CRN International CRN International is a leading marketing company that has pioneered strategies and produced creative programming through radio and emerging audio media like podcasts to help brands separate from the clutter of traditional advertising. CRN has served such top clients as Johnson & Johnson, USAA, Hershey, Chrysler and Microsoft and typically employs a combination of content marketing, influencer marketing and promotions to solve marketing challenges. It is based in Hamden, CT. For more info: Jim Alkon, Marketing Director jima(at)crnradio(dot)com 203-407-3341 Adding Spectrotel to our supplier portfolio allows Telarus partners to deliver integrated solutions to their customers. Spectrotel, Inc., a leading national integrated solutions provider specializing in the aggregation of voice, Internet, cloud and managed services is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Telarus, Inc., a value-added distributor of network, Unified Communications (UC), and cloud services, who is committed to creating a unique value for partners. For over 20 years, Spectrotels high-touch and high-tech solutions have enabled multi-location, enterprise customers to transform the way they manage their business. Spectrotels fanatical commitment to genuine, personalized service, combined with innovative technology solutions, personifies the essence of Telarus and the commitment to Telarus partners. Companies who choose Spectrotel through the Telarus portfolio will gain the following: Network of Networks Provides customers with the most optimized and tailored solution by aggregating hundreds of disparate networks, carriers, transports and equipment throughout North America to deliver ONE cohesive, affordable solution that can be viewed and managed through ONE source. Premier Account Service One of the biggest headaches for an enterprise customer is the ability to get a live person to assist them. Spectrotels Premier Account Program assigns a single point of contact whose only responsibility is to deliver a consistent, informative, proactive and enjoyable experience for all their service needs pre- and post-installation, including repair, status, billing and resolution. Leading-Edge Technology Spectrotel has mastered the ability to aggregate a fully customizable and scalable enterprise solution with a comprehensive suite of services that manages and secures it all. Spectrotels Solutions in a Box provides Telarus with a myriad of technological choices from a robust collection of TDM Services; Managed Services including SD-WAN, Managed Security, Network Monitoring and VPN; Professional Services; VOIP Services including Hosted PBX Cloud, SIP and Unified Communications. Timing is everything. Our partnership with Telarus could not come at a better time, said Ross Artale, Spectrotel President & COO. Spectrotel being one of the fastest growing aggregators and Telarus being one of the fastest growing distributors reinforces our ability to deliver the strategies to help our partners grow while delivering it in a unique way that creates long lasting partnerships. Adding Spectrotel to our supplier portfolio allows Telarus partners to deliver integrated solutions to their customers. The Spectrotel fanatical support team will allow our partners to delight their customers, said Patrick Oborn, Telarus Co-founder. About Spectrotel For 20 years Spectrotel has provided quality, affordable, personalized, and integrated communication services to SMB and enterprise customers. Spectrotel delivers the versatility of any service, any carrier, any speed, at any location in order to provide a fully integrated and customizable enterprise solution that is flexible and scalable as technologies evolve and businesses expand. For more information, visit http://www.spectrotel.com/ About Telarus Telarus (http://www.telarus.com) is a technology services master agent who holds contracts with over 100 data, voice, and cloud providers. To help our partners See What Others Cant, we have created a set of tools to help them win more business. We are proud to offer our partners performance monitoring of all circuits ordered, patented pricing tools to aid in carrier selection/optimization and cloud engineers to aid partners in complex network design. Our project management team ensures the services ordered are turned up properly. Account management to allow partners to focus on selling while our team manages the renewal process and upsells on their behalf. Telarus was voted the best master agent by the members of the Telecom Association for over five years in a row and is a top three channel partner for nearly all providers it represents. Belize's Chaa Creek proves that luxury can be Green supporting the environment and communities doesnt need to come at a cost to luxury Belizes The Lodge at Chaa Creeks recent inclusion in the National Geographic Traveller Luxury Collection is further proof that sustainable tourism can support the highest levels of luxury, Chaa Creeks owners say. National Geographic - The Luxury Collection is the travel authoritys annual roundup of resorts, hotels, helicopter tours, glacier trips and all other luxury experiences youll want to consider for your next trip, according to their website. The Luxury Collection, which is also presented in a deluxe coffee table magazine format, features high-end hotels and resorts from destinations that include Switzerland, Bali, Ibiza, Peru, Spain, China, Canada, Costa Rica, Morocco, The Maldives, The United States and more. The Lodge at Chaa Creeks inclusion, as the only Belizean resort, shows that the little country is coming of age and gaining recognition in the global tourism, co-owner Lucy Fleming said. It also proves that sustainable tourism can, and does, co-exist with luxury, she added. Belize first gained attention for inland jungle adventures, ancient Maya temples and an unspoiled Caribbean coast sheltered by the worlds second largest barrier reef. As Belizes tourism industry grew and became more sophisticated, other attractions, such as a more refined dining culture and cultural tourism began attracting notice. More recently, and in response to visitor expectations, theres been a move towards offering more luxurious accommodations and amenities, and its great to see that being recognised by travel authorities such as National Geographic. And whats really satisfying is that weve been able to gain a reputation for luxury while remaining committed to Green, sustainable tourism, Ms Fleming explained. Chaa Creek is described in The Luxury Collection as A balance of natural beauty and elegantly appointed thatched cottages, villas and suites, including the luxurious new Ix Chel Villas. The Macal Cottage is described as blending stylish simplicity and elegant furnishings to create a romantic ambiance against the backdrop of the rainforest, while twenty-three individually designed palm thatched cottages, furnished with a mix of hand-crafted furniture, fine fabrics and local and international art, are complemented by the Hilltop SpasNaturally mineral rich mud treatments, herbal wraps and carefully chosen botanicals, sourced locally, as well as horseback riding, canoeing, jungle safaris and other activities. Ms Fleming explained that she and her husband Mick created their blend of luxury and environmentally friendly tourism through carefully managed development. We actually started with two small thatched roof cottages on our farm, built almost exclusively with materials sourced from the surrounding jungle. Word of mouth brought more guests, and we continued to develop pretty organically, following the natural contours of the land, building around trees rather than cutting them down and generally coexisting with, rather than attempting to tame, the natural environment. In time our guests and their tastes became more varied, and we responded by expanding our range of lodgings and amenities. Late last year we opened the Ix Chel Rainforest Villas as our flagship luxury offering to join the existing suites, villas and cottage collection. Ms Fleming said Chaa Creek continues to offer lower priced, rustic accommodations with the Macal River Camp consisting of ten small bungalows and congenial, family style dining. Regardless of the style of accommodation, ten per cent of all room revenue goes directly into environmental and community projects under the Chaa Creek Cares initiative, and the popular Belizean eco-resort provides training, mentoring and career advancement opportunities for its 160 employees. As a result of their efforts, the Flemings, and Chaa Creek, have been recognised with an impressive number of awards and distinctions. In addition to The Luxury Collection, National Geographic earlier this year recognised Chaa Creek with first place honours for engaging communities at the 2017 World Legacy Awards presented in Berlin. We have very close ties and a warm, mutually beneficial relationship with our local communities, and it was gratifying to see this recognised internationally with such a prestigious award, Ms Fleming said. Mick and I, like most travellers, have always been avid National Geographic readers, and to us its a great honour to have been recognised by them twice this year, and for two things that are important to us sustainable tourism and offering our guests a high degree of luxury in a pristine natural setting. It confirms something we have been promoting since we opened in 1981, that supporting the environment and communities doesnt need to come at a cost to luxury or service. In fact, they can go hand in hand, and thats what true eco-tourism is all about. And were very grateful to National Geographic for acknowledging this and spreading the sustainable tourism message worldwide, Ms Fleming said. The Lodge at Chaa Creek is a multi-award winning eco resort set within a 400-acre private nature reserve along the banks of the Macal River in Belize. It was recognised by National Geographic with first place honours at the 2017 World Legacy Awards held in Berlin. ENDS Xander LeRoy, Newly Appointed Head of Financial Services at Appnovation For the last 20 years I have worked across the breadth of financial services companies; driving technology and process change to increase company growth and value at both small start-ups and global multinationals. I am very excited to be joining the Appnovation team" As Appnovation expands its presence in the digital solutions space, the company is continuing to recruit people equipped to further accelerate this. The latest addition to the team is Xander LeRoy, a former Global Head of Operations at AIG, who has been brought on as the new Head of Financial Services. Working within the Technology Enabled Services (TES) team, as a critical part of Appnovation's overall expansion into the digital consulting space, Mr. LeRoy's hire signals a more targeted focus on attracting new, and growing current clients in the Financial Services sector. Having already enjoyed some early wins in the financial services industry in Canada, Hong Kong, the UK and US, Mr. LeRoy has been appointed to leverage these initial wins, whilst simultaneously further expanding and deepening Appnovation's global presence in the financial services sector. Within his role in TES, Mr. LeRoy will be working with both the Sales and Delivery teams to accelerate the projects for existing clients, as well as create the plan for approaching new prospective clients. As Mr. LeRoy himself explains, he is delighted to be bringing his wealth of experience to the table, and joining Appnovation's senior management team: "For the last 20 years I have worked across the breadth of financial services companies, from running development and architecture at a tiny start-up, to senior Operations Officer roles at a Fortune 100. I am very excited to be joining the Appnovation team and am looking forward to bringing my strategic and finserv skills and experience to complement what the company already offers." Based out of New York City, Mr. LeRoy is a strong addition to Appnovation's constantly evolving team, especially in terms of the growth of Appnovation's burgeoning digital solutions. consulting, and services offerings. Arnold Leung, Appnovation Founder and CEO, is equally excited about the appointment of Mr. LeRoy, and sees it as the next step forward for both financial services client list, and the growing digital solutions side of the business. "Financial Services is an industry which is undergoing massive digital transformation. Appnovation is investing heavily in digital solutions for the financial services industry and we are excited to have Xander lead our solutions group in this sector." All in all, the appointment of Mr. LeRoy not only signals Appnovations commitment to becoming more dominant in the financial services client arena, it also highlights their intention to expand their already burgeoning digital solutions portfolio. About Appnovation Appnovation is a global Digital Solutions and Managed Services provider, delivering strategy, application development and enterprise integration on leading open technologies. Appnovations in-house experts strategize, build, and deploy high-performing, secure digital experiences across many industries, while also offering a wide range of creative capabilities, with 24/7 support and maintenance. The firm boasts an impressive, cross-industry client roster ranging from Start-Ups to Fortune 500, government entities, nonprofit organizations and beyond. Since its inception in 2007, Appnovation has worked with hundreds of clients, delivering thousands of projects, achieving international recognition for development, innovations, and business success. Open Digital Delivered. Visit appnovation.com today. KVC Health Systems, a national leader in behavioral healthcare, child welfare, and community health and wellness, will unveil its impact in the lives of children and families over the past year during its 2017 Annual Celebration taking place October 19 at KVCs Ball Conference Center in Olathe, Kansas. During the program, KVC will thank staff, donors and partners; share stories about the positive impact the organization has had in the lives of children, adults and families; and present its 47th KVC Hero Award to Anne Roberts who served as Chief Operations Officer for 35 years. The event is open to community partners and the media; register at http://www.kvc.org/celebrate. KVC touches the lives of over 60,000 children, adults and families each year through its diverse continuum of services including in-home family support, foster care, adoption, behavioral healthcare, substance abuse treatment, and psychiatric hospitals. In the 2017 fiscal year, KVC achieved these national results: Directly touched 63,795 peoples lives Safely prevented 12,539 children from entering foster care by stabilizing and strengthening their families Helped 590 families safely reunite after one or more of their children were in foster care Supported 6,909 children in relative or foster families Matched 449 children with adoptive families and passed the milestone of facilitating over 4,000 childrens adoptions in the agencys history Provided 21,590 children and adults with in-home therapy and other critical support Treated 3,456 youth and adults at its psychiatric hospitals The full 2017 Annual Report will be online starting October 19 at http://www.kvc.org/impact. Each year, KVC presents its Hero Award to an individual, couple or organization that has made a significant difference in KVCs evolution and in the lives of children and families. Anne Roberts is the recipient of the 47th KVC Hero Award. Roberts joined KVC in 1982. She served as Chief Operations Officer from the roles inception through December 2015. As COO, Roberts oversaw strategic planning and organizational growth, as well as the development of high-quality programs and services. She was also responsible for system-wide performance improvement and the advancement of company goals. In 2016, she became Chief of Staff to support the transition to a new leadership team, assisting in the achievement of organizational goals through special projects, training and consultation. Recently, KVC Health Systems President and CEO Jason Hooper dedicated the KVC Education Center inside KVC Prairie Ridge childrens psychiatric hospital to Roberts, unveiling a beautiful sign in her honor. Anne has always led with quality and shes always led with mission and cause, Hooper said at the dedication. Its meaningful that we are able to honor your service to KVC in a hallway where we serve children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma and other struggles with the highest quality behavioral healthcare and psychiatric treatment. Thank you for your service. Prior to her work at KVC, Roberts was an educator in Kansas City, Kansas. She has always appreciated the challenges of children and families with special needs. Her experience as a special needs educator translated directly into the KVC environment, which provides behavioral healthcare and social services to children and families. Roberts regards KVCs guiding principles, including with privilege comes responsibility, and children grow best in families as significant to its success. She acknowledges that it is a privilege for KVC to serve tens of thousands of children and families each year and takes the organizations responsibility for assuring quality services very much to heart. Roberts background in education also served her well in the provision of internal and external training and consultation. Roberts earned her bachelors and masters degrees in special education from Avila College and Kansas State University respectively. She served as a representative for the Field of Foster Care to the Special Education Advisory Council of the Kansas Board of Education from 2008 through 2014. Ms. Roberts is a 2014 graduate of the Kansas City FBI Citizens Academy Program and a member of its alumni. The 2017 Annual Celebration includes a program beginning at 4:00 p.m. and a reception beginning at 5:00 p.m. Learn more and register at http://www.kvc.org/celebrate. ### About KVC Health Systems, Inc. KVC Health Systems, headquartered in the greater Kansas City area, is a private, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that enriches and enhances the lives of over 60,000 children and families each year by providing medical and behavioral healthcare, social services, and education. KVCs diverse continuum of services includes in-home family support, behavioral healthcare, foster care, adoption, substance abuse treatment, and childrens psychiatric hospitals. KVC cares for more than half of all children and families involved in the Kansas child welfare system and thousands more children and families in Missouri, Nebraska, Kentucky and West Virginia. Learn more at http://www.kvc.org. Manisha Bahl, M.D., M.P.H. Our goal is to apply the tool in clinical settings to help make more informed decisions as to which patients will be surveilled and which will go on to surgery. I believe we can capitalize on machine learning to inform clinical decision making and ultimately improve patient care. A machine learning tool can help identify which high-risk breast lesions are likely to become cancerous, according to a new study appearing online in the journal Radiology. Researchers said the technology has the potential to reduce unnecessary surgeries. High-risk breast lesions are biopsy-diagnosed lesions that carry an increased risk of developing into cancer. Because of that risk, surgical removal is often the preferred treatment option. However, many high-risk lesions do not pose an immediate threat to the patients life and can be safely monitored with follow-up imaging, sparing patients the costs and complications associated with surgery. There are different types of high-risk lesions, said study author and radiologist Manisha Bahl, M.D., M.P.H., from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School, both in Boston. Most institutions recommend surgical excision for high-risk lesions such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, for which the risk of upgrade to cancer is about 20 percent. For other types of high-risk lesions, the risk of upgrade varies quite a bit in the literature, and patient management, including the decision about whether to remove or survey the lesion, varies across practices. Dr. Bahl and colleagues at MGH studied the use of a machine learning tool to identify high-risk lesions that are at low risk for upgrade to cancer. The study resulted from a close collaboration between researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technologys (MIT) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory in Cambridge, Mass., and breast imaging experts at MGH. Because diagnostic tools are inexact, there is an understandable tendency for doctors to over-screen for breast cancer, said coauthor Regina Barzilay, Ph.D., the Delta Electronics Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT. When theres this much uncertainty in data, machine learning is exactly the tool that we need to improve detection and prevent overtreatment. Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence in which a model automatically learns and improves based on previous experiences. The model developed by researchers analyzed traditional risk factors such as patient age and lesion histology, along with several unique features, including words that appear in the text from the biopsy pathology report. The researchers trained the model on a group of patients with biopsy-proven high-risk lesions who had surgery or at least two-year imaging follow-up. Of the 1,006 high-risk lesions identified, 115, or 11 percent, were upgraded to cancer. After training the machine learning model on two-thirds of the high-risk lesions, the researchers tested it on the remaining 335 lesions. The model correctly predicted 37 of the 38 lesions, or 97 percent, that were upgraded to cancer. The researchers also found that use of the model would have helped avoid almost one-third of benign surgeries. The machine-learning model identified the terms severely and severely atypical in the text of the pathology reports as associated with a greater risk of upgrade to cancer. Our study provides proof of concept that machine learning can not only decrease unnecessary surgery by nearly one-third in this specific patient population, but also can support more targeted, personalized approaches to patient care, said the papers senior author, Constance Lehman, M.D., Ph.D., professor at Harvard Medical School and Director of Breast Imaging at MGH. Our goal is to apply the tool in clinical settings to help make more informed decisions as to which patients will be surveilled and which will go on to surgery, Dr. Bahl added. I believe we can capitalize on machine learning to inform clinical decision making and ultimately improve patient care. ### High-Risk Breast Lesions: A Machine Learning Model to Predict Pathologic Upgrade and Reduce Unnecessary Surgical Excision. Collaborating with Drs. Bahl, Barzilay and Lehman were Adam B. Yedidia, M.Eng., Nicholas J. Locascio, M.Eng., and Lili Yu, Ph.D. Radiology is edited by Herbert Y. Kressel, M.D., Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass., and owned and published by the Radiological Society of North America, Inc. (http://pubs.rsna.org/journal/radiology) RSNA is an association of over 54,600 radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical physicists and related scientists promoting excellence in patient care and health care delivery through education, research and technologic innovation. The Society is based in Oak Brook, Ill. (RSNA.org) For patient-friendly information on breast imaging, visit RadiologyInfo.org. Erika R. Davis has completed her new book A Man of God, A Husband, and a Father: a simple and poignant reflection on the life of a gifted minister murdered while serving others in his parish community. Davis shares, Clementa C. Pinckney was born a gifted but humble child from birth. Clementa C. Pinckney married the love of his life, and they had two beautiful daughters. Clementa was beloved by his family, friends, and the community. But God loved him best. Published by New York City-based Page Publishing, Erika R. Daviss tribute to Clementa C. Pinckney is a touching biography of a good man taken far too soon. Readers who wish to experience this poignant work can purchaseA Man of God, A Husband, and a Father at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Kobo, Google Play or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708. About Page Publishing: Page Publishing is a traditional New York-based full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create - not bogged down with logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and the like. Its roster of accomplished authors and publishing professionals can leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues, and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. Talented CEO Danvers Fleury sees the partnership as a perfect fit. With Duke University's investment via Dan Ariely's Center for Advanced Hindsight (CAH), Durham-based Talented is one step closer to becoming the premiere experiential learning game platform for large organizations with mission critical training needs. The CAH designs, tests and implements behavioral interventions in order to shed light on how and why people make decisions. CAH also investigates how certain forces influence our thoughts and behavior, building upon the groundbreaking research shared in Dan Ariely's best selling book, Predictably Irrational. Their Start Up Lab aims to infuse the latest thinking in behavioral economics into vehicles that can make a difference in everyday people's lives, and each year they choose three emerging companies from an international pool of candidates. Talented CEO Danvers Fleury sees the partnership as a perfect fit, The Center for Advanced Hindsight has engineered an elegant and sustainable ecosystem where research drives real world results and real world results then opens up new research opportunities. Launched in 2016 out of the American Underground, Talented is a mobile-first experiential learning game platform for trainers and authors that want their content to be immortalized in the lives and works of their learners. Learning games on Talented progress when learners complete three to five minute true-to-life virtual scenarios and real-world quests. This immersive learn-by-doing approach leads to unprecedented engagement, skill transfer and lifetime learner loyalty. Talented games are used to amplify and reinforce training programs that must deliver real results while maintaining a fun and engaging user experience. These training games also overcome roadblocks in scheduling and delivery due to team travel with their mobile-friendly app. We're excited to support a startup from Durham's own entrepreneurship community, says Rachael Meleney, Start Up Lab Program Coordinator. The Talented team is passionate about positive behavior change and exhibits a collaborative spirit-- both highly important to the CAH in our pursuit to apply behavioral economics to tech solutions." As part of this partnership, Talented will have the opportunity to integrate and leverage the Center for Advanced Hindsight's academic research on decision making and habit forming to make it an even more obvious choice for organizations to invest in their learners, and learners to invest in themselves. About Talented Talented is an experiential learning game platform for trainers and authors that want their content to be immortalized in the lives and works of their learners. Episodic micro learning is accessible, delivered to mobile devices and web browsers. Learning games progress when learners complete true-to-life virtual scenarios and real-world quests.This immersive learn-by-doing approach leads to unprecedented engagement, skill transfer and lifetime learner loyalty. For more information visit talentedapp.com or call 919.813.0422 The VPP Star bestowed by OSHA to safe work environments is highly selective. Having MI Windows' Gratz, PA, and Prescott Valley, AZ,facilities chosen for the Star level is very significant. For the past two years, the local leaders have poured their hearts and souls into engaging with the team to embrace a safety-first culture, to improve our physical work environment and to implement numerous hazard prevention ideas. --Mike DeSoto, COO, MI Window and Doors. For the second time in just under two months, an MI Windows and Doors facility has achieved the highest possible honor for employee safety the OSHA Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Star. The Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH) has awarded MIs facility in Prescott Valley, AZ, with the VPP Star distinction. Prescott Valley joins MIs Gratz, PA, facility in achieving a VPP Star. Very few companies can claim to have multiple sites that are VPP rated. The VPP Star is bestowed by OSHA to those work sites that demand exacting standards for employee safety. Out of eight million job sites in the U.S., only 2,200 have earned the VPP Star thats 0.028 percent. For the past two years, the local leaders have poured their hearts and souls into engaging with the team to embrace a safety-first culture, to improve our physical work environment and to implement numerous hazard prevention ideas, said MI Windows COO Mike DeSoto. I was choked up with joy to see the raw excitement of the team when the results were announced. We all know the work never stops, but I sincerely congratulate the team for this huge accomplishment. Not only did Prescott Valley grab the VPP Star, but it became the first window fabricator in Arizona to achieve this. It is also one of the very few work sites in Arizona outside of the Phoenix and Tucson areas to become designated as VPP Star. The recent announcement, followed a three-day evaluation by a team from ADOSH. During the audit, the ADOSH team which was led by Assistant Director Jessie Atencio and included Industrial Hygienists Bruce Hanna and Michael Martin and Safety Consultant Brandon Stowell listened to team member presentations, toured the factory, and conducted dozens of interviews. Heres where the work actually begins, Atencio said following the announcement. You have to sustain it. It was definitely a team effort involving all of our team members, said Michael Reinert, the General Manager at MIs Prescott Valley facility. Were excited to be named as a VPP Star, but we know this is just the beginning. Well continue to get better every day. About MI Windows and Doors Founded in 1947, MI Windows and Doors is one of the nation's largest suppliers of energy-efficient vinyl and aluminum windows and sliding glass doors. With plants in Pennsylvania, Texas, and Arizona, MI offers a broad spectrum of windows and doors backed by exemplary customer service. The company's commitment to safety, quality, and service are exemplified by the people that represent it nationwide. For more information, visit http://www.miwindows.com. Karen Fulton has received The Institutes Griffith Insurance Education Foundations 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award during a ceremony at the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) 2017 Annual Meeting, held October 16 in Chicago, Illinois. Candidates for the 2017 Griffith Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award were selected by The Griffith Foundation Leadership Council, which includes insurance leaders, executives and academics. This years winner was recognized for exemplary commitments to education and for her support of the missions of The Griffith Foundation and PCI. Fulton retired in February 2017 as president and chief executive officer (CEO) of ARI Insurance Company, an AmTrust company. She previously served as president and CEO of ARI Mutual Insurance Company, where she was responsible for all facets of the insurance operation and coordinated the strategic analysis that led to acquisition by AmTrust. Before joining ARI, Fulton served as vice president and controller of American Reliance Insurance Company and as senior manager of audit services for KPMG Peat Markwick. She is currently a member of the board of Chandler Health Services and chairs its Asset Committee. For more information about the 2017 Griffith Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award winners, visit GriffithFoundation.org/LAA. ### About The Institutes Griffith Insurance Education Foundation The Institutes Griffith Insurance Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, non-advocacy educational organization dedicated to providing unbiased information about risk management and insurance through educational programs targeting students and public policymakers. The Griffith Foundation is affiliated with The Institutes, the leader in delivering proven knowledge solutions that drive powerful business results for the risk management and property-casualty insurance industry. For more information, visit GriffithFoundation.org. Past News Releases RSS For over 50 years, Goodheart-Willcox Publisher (G-W) has provided schools and colleges across Canada with exceptional, career-focused resources for Trades and Technology programs. As experts in Career and Technical Education, the G-W product line has expanded to include a complete range of digital and print resources for Agriculture; Automotive; Business, Marketing, and Career Education; Family Studies; Health Sciences; Trades and Technology Education; and Health Education. In order to deliver exceptional service that exceeds expectations to all Canadian educational accounts, Goodheart-Willcox Publisher is now providing fulfillment to its Canadian accounts directly from its headquarters in Tinley Park, Illinois, and is no longer distributing through Oxford University Press. All orders to Canada will be invoiced in Canadian dollars and will be shipped according to the customers specific instructions. Canada places tremendous importance on delivering quality career and life skills education in schools and colleges. As a leader in this field, we look forward to directly servicing Canadian educators and helping their students build successful careers, said John Flanagan, President and CEO of Goodheart-Willcox. Goodheart-Willcox will continue to partner with Resources.Too for secondary schools and Northrose Educational Resources for postsecondary institutions. Both partners are based in Ontario with representatives across Canada. Customers with questions about their orders or accounts can contact Goodheart-Willcox at 800-323-0440 or custserv(at)g-w(dot)com. Educators who are interested in curriculum for their programs can visit http://www.g-w.com to see the hundreds of titles available. About Goodheart-Willcox Experts in Career and Technical Education, Goodheart-Willcox was established in 1921 and has continually published the highest quality content for CTE. Goodheart-Willcox titles are available in print and digital formats, and include a full portfolio of student and instructor resources. Goodheart-Willcox: We Build Careers We stay on top of consumer taste trends. Our goal is to help food companies develop new taste sensations that they can call their own offerings that are unique and stand out. Fuchs North America, a leading maker of seasonings, flavor systems and taste solutions for the food manufacturing, retail and foodservice industries, introduces the South Asian Collection a new line of distinctive seasonings, bases and flavors. The collections 4 vibrant and authentic seasonings offer innovative takes on popular South Asian dishes and flavors. Among the collections offerings are seasonings and blends for proteins, sauces, beverages and desserts. These items are also the starting point for food manufacturers and foodservice establishments to develop their own unique signature product offerings, with Fuchs culinary specialists at their side. The New Collection Our new South Asian Collection includes the following 4 seasoning blends: Butter Chicken Sauce Seasoning Kashmiri Spiced Carrot Cake Mix Kerala Style Lamb Curry Seasoning Masala Chai Lassi Drink Mix In introducing the collection, Shannon Cushen, Fuchs director of marketing, explained the strategy behind the collection. As consumers have been becoming more adventurous eaters, theres been an increase in demand for authentic ethnic cuisines and flavors inspired by different, exotic regions of the world. As a result, South Asian cuisine and South Asian inspired flavors have been gaining traction both in foodservice and at retail, she observes. Our newest collection delivers on authenticity, while also providing unique and creative twists on popular South Asian foods and flavors, Cushen adds. Fuchs helps food companies make sense of the trends and tap into where the culinary energy is strongest. In this spirit, each of the items that make up Fuchs South Asian Collection features innovative and mouthwatering flavors that will liven up any menu item or product. Sensational Sauce Seasoning Elizabeth Lindemer, CEC, Fuchs corporate executive chef, worked to develop blends that meet consumers high expectations of authenticity. Butter chicken is an iconic dish with roots in the Punjabi cuisine, dating back to the 1950s. Our Butter Chicken Sauce Seasoning has a subtle balance of tanginess, sweetness, mild spiciness and richness. Its easy to see why this is a favorite Indian dish for so many people, Lindemer describes. Delightful Dessert With crisp autumn air quickly approaching, its time to give the grill a little break and warm up the oven. Youll find our Kashmiri Spiced Carrot Cake Mix perfectly captures the captivating and inviting spices of the Kashmir Valley region. Craveable Curry Kerala, located in southern India, serves as the inspiration behind our Kerala Style Lamb Curry Seasoning. Spices have always played a fundamental role in the cuisine of Kerala. Dating back thousands of years, Kerala rose to fame for its production of spices such as black pepper, cardamom and cinnamon. So, it only seemed fitting that, as a spice and seasoning company, Fuchs North America would honor Kerala with a fragrant and enchanting curry seasoning, Lindemer explains. Yummy Beverage Not only is our Masala Chai Lassi Drink Mix particularly on-trend, but its also the perfect beverage for fall. According to Lindemer, Lassi is a traditional yogurt-based drink that is common through the Indian subcontinent. Fuchs version is slightly sweet and features a subtle tanginess from nonfat Greek yogurt, paired with a hint of black tea and warming spices such as ginger and cinnamon. Custom Solutions, Too According to Ken Wuestenfeld, vice president of sales and technical services, the strategy behind all of Fuchs offerings like the South Asian Collection is to help food manufacturers and foodservice establishments create irresistible new items that build on culinary traditions, but that are also unique. As Wuestenfeld explained, the development process is a combination of science and art. We stay on top of consumer taste trends. Our goal is to help food companies develop new taste sensations that they can call their own offerings that are unique and stand out. With each customer, Fuchs North America goes from conception to manufacturing to delivery of an approved flavor as quickly as possible. We have a wide range of flavor bases at the ready, and, as a result, we can provide samples for immediate testing. Then we customize and refine the flavor to attain exactly the taste characteristics our customer is seeking, Wuestenfeld reports. Doing so means that taking a food or flavor idea from concept to delivery can often be accomplished in a matter of weeks or even less time. Especially when under tight product development timeframes, being able to support customers with that kind of rapid schedule is a huge benefit, Wuestenfeld emphasized. Complimentary Samples Available For a limited time, Fuchs North America is offering complimentary samples of the items in its new South Asian Collection. To request samples, contact Rebekah Wicke toll-free at 800-365-3229. You may also e-mail your request to rwicke@fuchsna.com or visit http://www.fuchsna.com/SouthAsian. About Fuchs North America Fuchs North America is a leading producer and supplier of value-added seasonings, spices and flavor systems to the food manufacturing and foodservice industries. With a heritage that extends back more than 75 years, the company specializes in the development of full flavor systems, custom flavor profiles and seasoning products including supporting some of the worlds largest and best-recognized food brands. Fuchs North Americas seasoning specialists are experts in anticipating and identifying consumer trends and converting them into successful flavor profiles. They work closely with food technologists and product development personnel at client companies to design distinctive, differentiated flavor systems. Fuchs products are made in a precision processing environment that ensures consistent, repeatable quality, order to order. Since 1990, Fuchs North America has been part of the worldwide Fuchs Group, the largest privately-held spice and seasoning company in the industry. The Fuchs Group serves food manufacturing, foodservice and retail segments, backed by secure, quality sourcing plus state-of-the-art production facilities on four continents. Website address: http://www.fuchsna.com. PowWow Mobile In partnership with PowWow Mobile, weve transformed the way in which we deliver critical services to the most vulnerable parts of our population, ensuring our case workers leverage the latest technology to be productive and efficient. PowWow Mobile, the leader in enabling enterprises to simplify and extend business apps to mobile, today announced Mary Shamouel, CIO of Social Services Agency, County of Santa Clara, California as the inaugural recipient of the Mobile Transformer Award. The newly formed award, which will be voted on annually by PowWow Mobile employees and stakeholders, will recognize customers making a significant impact in their workplace transformation initiatives through the modernization and mobilization of key applications used to support their business. On behalf of our agency, I am proud and honored to be the first recipient of the Mobile Transformer Award, said Shamouel. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, we are always looking for innovative solutions to support our mission as we believe that technology can help transform public sector services by maximizing quality and efficiency. The Social Services Agency is tasked to address the wide variety of needs among the countys 1.7 million residents. Despite servicing the tech epicenter that is Silicon Valley, the agencys employees were handcuffed by inefficient processes and outdated technology that required workers to input and access information only by returning to their desks, reducing the amount of time they spent with their clients in the field. In partnership with PowWow Mobile, Shamouel and her team spearheaded the digital transformation of their complex legacy applications into a modern native mobile app that could be deployed across a wide range of Android-based smartphones and tablets, empowering employees to work on critical cases from anywhere at anytime, enabling a true mobile workforce. In partnership with PowWow Mobile, weve transformed the way in which we deliver critical services to the most vulnerable parts of our population, ensuring our case workers leverage the latest technology to be productive and efficient, said Makan Borhanjoo, Child Welfare Services, Senior IT Manager, County of Santa Clara. PowWow Mobiles SmartUX Platform allowed us to simplify, modernize, and extend our critical case management systems thereby creating a new mobile experience for our social workers, when and where they need it. PowWow Mobile disrupts the speed, complexity and economics commonly associated with delivering productivity-enhancing apps to an increasingly mobile-first workforce. The PowWow SmartUX Platform simplifies and extends business apps to mobile, delivering modern omni-channel experiences that transform how work is done in the digital era. With SmartUX, users can easily connect to any application or data source, and rapidly design and deploy personalized, intelligent and secure apps that run anywhere, on any device (PC, laptop, tablet, phone or watch), and any OS (iOS, Android, Windows 10 or HTML5). We are thrilled to be apart of the digital transformation initiatives for an agency that provides so many critical services to the community, said Kia Behnia, CEO of PowWow Mobile. Marys vision for a more innovative social services can be used as a model for other public-sector organizations throughout the country that are in desperate need of application modernization and mobile enablement. There is no one more deserving of the inaugural Mobile Transformer Award than Mary Shamouel. To learn more about Santa Claras path to digital transformation, click here for the full case study. About PowWow Mobile PowWow Mobile is redefining the mobile enterprise. Our rapid mobile app solution, SmartUX, enables organizations to simplify and extend business apps to mobile by modernizing and streamlining existing processes to deliver new and intelligent enterprise to edge experiences. Built on best of breed open technology, SmartUX provides a low-code, drag and drop environment for rapidly creating and deploying secure cross-platform mobile apps. With unmatched accessibility and ease-of-use, our solution facilitates collaboration between IT and the business, significantly reducing backlogs and accelerating time to value. Enterprises in the financial services, manufacturing, telecom, software, transportation, consulting and the public-sector industries trust PowWow Mobile to empower their anytime, anywhere workforce; increase agility and competitive advantage, and drive innovation and productivity through smart business mobile apps. Based in San Francisco, PowWow Mobile has garnered prestigious awards and recognition from AOTMP, Compass Intelligence, Gartner and more. Learn more about how PowWow Mobile is redefining the mobile enterprise at http://www.powwowmobile.com, on Twitter @powwowmobile or on Linkedin. It was very important to us that people visiting our website found it friendly as well as functional, so they can easily see the benefits of living and doing business here, said Derek Borg, City Manager Bold Entity, an innovative brand strategy and marketing company, announced the completion and launch of the new City of Princeton, Texas website. Utilizing the organizations proprietary brand strategy and development process, the City of Princeton is able to showcase the many benefits they have to offer residents, businesses and the community, while improving the online experience for any online visitor. Our focus was to empower the City of Princeton to deliver their powerful message of focus on family and traditional values, said Valerie Jimenez, founder and CEO of Bold Entity. The team at Bold Entity launched the project with a branding strategy to ensure that the City of Princeton would be reflected appropriately. Then the team focused on website visitors having an excellent experience once they reached the website. We want to make sure that everyone who visited the site could find what they wanted quickly, while showcasing the beauty of the city by using original photography of the area, said Jimenez. In addition to improving the look and feel, Bold Entity developed the website so that it is easy for internal departments to update their components, saving the city thousands of dollars on website updates while ensuring that visitors receive the most up-to-date information. The new website provides vast details in an easy-to-access manner. Everything from the citys rich history to community activities to a How Do I page is readily accessible and easy to read via any device. The most important aspect of getting this website completed was to ensure that we conveyed the true emotion and meaning of what its like to be a part the Princeton community, said Jimenez. We are pleased with the outcome and believe that visitors will enjoy the new experience they receive when they visit the website. To learn more about the City of Princeton, visit the new website at https://princetontx.gov/. About Bold Entity: Bold Entity empowers companies to reach their marketing goals by providing exceptional creative services that deliver positive experiences. Our proven methodology aligns with your big ideas to ensure that you are represented both digitally and traditionally. Through our innovative methodology, we are able to propel our clients into a thriving position in the marketplace. To learn more about Bold Entity, visit http://www.boldentity.com. The Premier Educational and Networking Conference for Senior Radiology Executives. Excellent discussion of many current business climates in health care. Great networking opportunities. Canopy Partners, a North Carolina based healthcare technology company, hosted its fourth annual Imaging Summit on Thursday and Friday, September 21st and 22nd, 2017 at the Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, North Carolina. The venue is North Carolina's only Forbes Five Star and AAA Diamond Resort. Radiology and Imaging executives from across the country were invited to this one-of-a-kind industry event. The theme for the 2017 Canopy Summit was Transformation. The educational sessions focused on how to position an imaging business for future survival, growth and success in a rapidly evolving healthcare market. The event featured an all-star lineup of industry experts and thought leaders. The Canopy Summit has grown every year since its inception in 2013.This year, the conference attendees included 133 imaging executives representing 72 organizations from 24 states and two countries. The demographic breakdown of attendees was 63% private practice radiology, 16% outpatient imaging centers, 5% health system based imaging and 16% other. Keynote speakers included: Lea Halim, Senior Consultant, The Advisory Board Company Worth Saunders, CEO, Canopy Partners Chris Wood, CEO, Clario Robert Still, Executive Director, Radiology Business Management Association Dr. Jay Watts & Dr. Dan Entrikin, Greensboro Radiology Heather Kawamoto, VP Product Management, Recondo Technology Robert White, COO, Greensboro Imaging The event also featured a series of Imaging Innovation Labs that focused on topics including: Imaging business valuation Artificial Intelligence Growth and business development strategies Merger and acquisition options The pros and cons of remaining independent vs selling MACRA and MIPS reimbursement strategies Strategies for sharpening your competitive edge Unified radiology IT platforms Clinical Decision Support Heres what a few of the conference attendees had to say: "Should not miss it. Educational sessions spot-on and networking opportunities abound." Dr. Brad Miller, Radiology Associates of Northern Kentucky Fantastic event. Really enjoyed being there and it was first class all the way. Jason Wickes, General Manager, ProScan Imaging "Excellent discussion of many current business climates in health care. Great networking opportunities." Dr. John Bools, Cawtaba Radiological Associates To learn more about the Canopy Summit or get on the invitation list for next years event, please visit the Canopy Partners 2017 Imaging Summit information page, or contact Event Coordinator Mallory Mast at 336-235-2257. About Canopy Partners Canopy Partners is a privately held healthcare technology company that specializes in medical billing, business analytics, information technology, and management consulting services. Our passion is elevating the role of medical imaging in the healthcare value chain. We create flexible, customer-driven business solutions that improve our clients productivity, profitability, and patient care. The company has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of Americas fastest growing private companies for the past three years. To learn more, please visit http://www.canopy-partners.com Symmpl - Easy internet and email for seniors Symmpl inc. (Symmpl.com) has launched their easy internet for senior citizens iPad app. Symmpl was designed by seniors for seniors. Their new iPad app is available in the Apple app store and through Symmpls website for a 30 day free no credit card required trial. After the trial period the Symmpl iPad app is available for $9.95 per month and comes with a lot of extras. To learn more about Symmpls amazing new iPad app for seniors visit our website at Symmpl.com About Symmpl: Symmpl is a revolutionary app for senior citizens who find the internet a confusing and daunting place. Symmpl makes it easy with voice and/or touch navigation through the assistance of Symantha, a virtual guide to sharing emails, photographs, health, and recreation. Symmpl also makes shopping, travel, and much more symmpl for any senior user regardless of their technology skills. Symmpls vision is to help seniors with a self-paced educational tool that will allow them to learn to use the internet efficiently and easily, so they will be able to connect with friends and family, shop, relay health information to friends and family, and of course get the information they want or need from the internet. Theres no better way to show you how fantastic Symmpl is than for you to see it in action. Symmpl has a video demonstration online via YouTube which can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMxFAQX7J10 To learn more about Symmpl please visit our website at Symmpl.com Advance Financial donates $1,000 to the local Anderson County 4-H Club. Were excited to become a part of the community and assist local residents in securing their financial futures. The fastest growing small-dollar loan financial services company in Tennessee, and one of the leading companies nationwide within its industry, continued its expansion in the Knoxville market with the opening of a store in Clinton. The new Advance Financial store at 2115 N. Charles G. Seivers Blvd. marks the 82nd location for the company. As with all other locations, the Clinton store will remain open to customers 24/7. At Advance Financial, we are committed to reaching new customers in Middle Tennessee, said Tina Hodges, the companys chief executive and chief experience officer. This opening marks our first store in Clinton, and were excited to become a part of the community and assist local residents in securing their financial futures. Advance Financial offers a range of financial services including prepaid cards, electronic wire services to anywhere in the world, check cashing, free bill-payment services and free money orders. The companys loan product is not just a small dollar loan, but a flexible line of credit called a FLEX Loan that offers customers the freedom of access to funds on their schedule with no late fees or early payoff penalties. Founded 20 years ago, Advance Financial is a family-owned company based in Nashville that has significantly expanded its footprint throughout Tennessee in recent years. Its first locations outside of Middle Tennessee were in and around Chattanooga and Knoxville. To learn more about Advance Financials FLEX loan program, visit here. About Advance Financial Advance Financial, founded in 1996, is a family owned and operated financial center based in Nashville, Tenn. The company currently operates more than 70 locations throughout Tennessee and employs more than 700 local representatives. By focusing on a wide variety of financial services including wire transfer, bill payment, unlimited free money orders and FLEX loans they are committed to building long-lasting, strong relationships with every customer. Advance Financial recently earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and was named to the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the country for the sixth year in a row. The 2018 summit will focus on the following themes: Mobile & Innovation Social Media & Content Data & Partnership Strategies The 2017 summit brought together over 300 heads of digital from brands like IHG, Lyft, Marriott Hotels, Booking.com, Google, Microsoft, Trivago, TripAdvisor, McKinsey, Cathay Pacific. The 2018 summit will look to build on our success and establish our status as the biggest digital travel conference on the west coast, says Renu Kannu, summit director in charge of researching the 2018 agenda. Here are some testimonials from previous attendees: "I look forward to EFT San Francisco, every year. The Keynote Speakers and The Start-Up Awards offer great insights to trends in the travel industry. A quality conference giving all participants tremendous value. A top-notch production year after year." Nicole Zito, Travel Startups Incubator "Thanks for putting the last couple of days together! It's always good to get together with like minded folks, meet new peers in the industry, while also re-connecting with past connections in my network." Rustom Birdie, Travel, Affirm "An amaizing informative Event." Jahy Carvalho, Independent Consultant "I had a great time and learned a tremendous amount about the travel and technology space. I will return based on what I learned and who I meet in the 3 days that I attended. The valuable relationships I have developed here will help guide my company." Ainsworth Spence, President, FleetFare For more information about the conference, please visit http://events.eyefortravel.com/san-francisco-summit/ If you would like to get involved with the event, please get in touch with Renu Kannu directly (renu(at)eyefortravel(dot)com) Revolutionizing and standardizing two industries one day at a time. There is no energy crisis, only a crisis of ignorance. R. Buckminster Fuller. State of Affairs Cryptocurrencies are projected to exceed market capitalization of 200 Billion USD by the end of 2017. Although, cryptocurrencies are on the brink of mass adoption, nevertheless, there are still some challenges. One Bitcoin transaction consumes as much energy as 7.55 homes in the United States for 1 day, compared to one Ethereum transaction that consumes as much energy as 1.34 homes in the United States for 1 day as of this article. In 2015, Bitcoin consumed as much energy as Ethereum does today, however, given the rising price and demand for cryptocurrencies the energy consumption for Bitcoin has skyrocketed. Ethereum is on the same track as Bitcoin, given most ICOs lately are choosing to build their respective platforms using Ethereum. To combat this trend, Ethereum has planned to change its proof-of-work algorithm to an energy efficient proof-of-stake algorithm namely Casper. This change is expected to minimize energy consumption which will be implemented gradually. Introduction 4NEW Limited is the worlds first blockchain integrated, Waste to Energy public utility treatment plant. 4NEW will revolutionize Waste and Energy industries by offering services as a wholesaler within the Utilities sector that is fully integrated onto an open source, decentralized public exchange enabling consumers and industry peers alike to trade their 4NEW Coins towards payments within the 4NEW ecosystem. Solution 4NEWs platform solves two of the biggest social issues of our time. 4NEW collects the waste from households, processing it through its waste conversion treatment plant, turning it into electricity. And then the electricity is sold back to the households, where the waste was collected from. Alternatively, electricity can also be sold to the national grid or aggregators that would be regarded as industry peers, or data servers to support future blockchain platforms. Moreover, 4NEW will be able to support the energy consumption costs of its own decentralized open source platform enabling 4NEW to operate at significantly reduced costs compared to the other blockchain networks. Scalability With a global plan to scale this localized solution addressing the waste surplus and the energy shortfall crisis, 4NEW will not only revolutionize the blockchain network but also standardize digital assets as a means to transact business within a conventional setting. Site Location With three sites already identified to launch within the United Kingdom, 4NEW will be completely installed and operational by December 31, 2018. Given the short gestation period, 4NEW will quickly position itself in a crowded ICO world as one of the most stable and liquid digital assets available to the community. Coin Price Stability and Liquidity The constant growing demand for 4NEW services within its ecosystem will directly correlate to liquidity for the 4NEW Coin. Additionally, with the ability to determine future sales and revenues, 4NEW is equipped to have a clear and transparent outlook for supply and demand for its coins at any given time. This supply/demand predictability facilitates price stability for the 4NEW Coin. Offering Schedule 4NEW Limited is scheduled to launch its Pre-sale round starting October 17th, 2017 through till November 14, 2017. Additionally, the Live Launch will occur November 15th, 2017 through December 15th, 2017, with a subsequent listing on exchanges by December 18th, 2017. History Our modern day technological revolution has been fueled by our ability to extract energy from our surroundings. Mankind has historically used and abused fossil fuels to sustain the Industrial Revolution over the past 200 years. However, as we have finally realized, Newtons third law of motion states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Our impact on the world and environment to pacify our hunger to fuel this unsustainable need for energy in order to support our modern lifestyle has come with an equal and opposite push back from planet Earth. Weather channels across the world will confirm an increasing number of record heat years in various parts of the world, in addition, mind numbing category 5 hurricanes and typhoons around the world causing destruction in metropolitan cities with large populations, or the disappearing ice-caps causing a severe threat of rising sea levels. Rise of Digital Assets In the midst of this great and grand energy gap that currently exists, allow me to introduce the next revolution, in case you were living under a rock over the past 12 months. Digital Assets such as cryptocurrencies, officially transitioning onto the MainStage after years of being in the shadows, have finally been acknowledged by the world as a disruptive, scalable and flexible solution that is here to stay. This year alone, close to USD 4 billion in ICOs are currently on their way to adding value to this network and many more are to follow prior to the end of the year. Some may regard this mania as a bubble ready to burst, however, in our opinion, this movement marks the birth of a new asset class, namely Digital Assets, which have never existed before. Observing the birth of an asset class is truly a celestial event, having occurred only a few times in the course of human evolution. Those who do not learn from history, are doomed to repeat it. Nevertheless, we cannot afford to ignore the lessons of the Industrial Revolution that eventually led to the Technological Revolution, which is to be cognizant of our energy consumption while we fuel our growth. What the new entrants into this crypto-world have not realized is that the blockchain network using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum are still unsustainable in the long run given the voracious energy consumption required by the networks to perform either a single Bitcoin or Ethereum transaction. The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG), the states leading association dedicated to the promotion and economic advancement of Georgias technology industry, today announced that Parkmobile has been chosen as a Finalist for the 2017 Excalibur Awards due to the companys ongoing work to improve its digital user experience with Rigor. The Annual Excalibur Awards celebrates Georgia companies and organizations that demonstrate the best use of technology, typically provided by a third-party, to solve complex issues and processes in business and education. Tech-enabled companies that develop their own non-commercial technology solutions to enhance their organization are also considered for the awards which are presented by TAG. Winners are selected from among the finalists and will be officially recognized at the 2017 Excalibur Awards ceremony on October 20, 2017 at the Georgia Aquarium. Parkmobile was selected from among over 60 applications submitted by companies and organizations from across Georgia for its work with Rigor, an Atlanta-based digital experience monitoring and optimization company. Between 80-90% of Parkmobiles users access their service via mobile app, so a good mobile customer experience is essential for the companys continued success. By leveraging Rigors digital experience monitoring platform, Parkmobile is able to identify the root cause of downtime so they can respond quickly and accuratelysaving the company time and money, improving the user experience, and protecting the Parkmobile brand. We are truly pleased to honor the recipients of the 2017 Excalibur Awards, said Larry K. Williams, president & CEO of TAG. TAG is fueling the innovation economy. In celebrating these tech-enabled companies and organizations, we strengthen our message of Georgias emerging position as a national leader in technology. To learn more, about the 2017 Excalibur Awards please visit: http://www.tagonline.org/events/excalibur-awards/. About Parkmobile Parkmobile, LLC is the leading provider for on-demand and prepaid mobile payments for on- and off-street parking. Their services have been adopted in more than 2,000 locations, including 39 of the top 100 cities in the U.S. by millions of registered users. About Rigor Rigor is the new frontier of digital experience management. Rigor's SaaS platform enables businesses to develop and deploy fast and reliable customer experiences online with agility, efficiency, and confidence. Rigor is trusted by hundreds of businesses to proactively manage their digital performance and strategically improve their customers digital experiences. Rigor customers include: Ulta, Carters, TOMS, Abercrombie & Fitch, Allrecipes, Ticketmaster, Michael Kors, Teradata, and CBS. Rigor is privately held and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. For more info about Rigor visit: rigor.com. About The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) TAG is the leading technology industry association in the state, serving more than 35,000 members through regional chapters in Metro Atlanta, Athens, Augusta, Columbus, Macon/Middle Georgia, and Savannah. TAGs mission is to educate, promote, and unite Georgias technology community to foster an innovative and connected marketplace that stimulates and enhances a tech-based economy. The association provides networking and educational programs; celebrates Georgias technology leaders and companies; and advocates for legislative action that enhances the states economic climate for technology. TAG hosts over 250 events each year and serves as an umbrella organization for 33 professional societies. Additionally, the TAG Education Collaborative (TAGs charitable arm) focuses on helping science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education initiatives thrive. For more information visit the TAG website at http://www.tagonline.org or TAGs community website at http://www.hubga.com. ### We continue to invest our resources in our people and build a team that is second to none and push the Pure IP Revolution to the next level, states Rob Mossman, CEO at ISONAS ISONAS Inc., a leading Pure IP access control system manufacturer, today announced that the company has expanded its team and added three new hires to its roster. ISONAS continues to foster a customer-centric philosophy throughout the company and created a new Account Executive and Senior Java Engineer positions to focus on deepening customer interaction and product development efforts. Olivia Peralta was recently hired as an inside sales Account Executive responsible to create personal relationships with integrators, distributors and end users in the eastern territory. In addition, Olivia will work on the ISONAS lead generation front and build customer relationships through interactive communication, and provide ongoing solutions to ISONAS customers. Olivia comes with an open mind and great sense of determination to bring futureproof solutions to customers. With the overwhelming success of Pure Access, ISONASs cloud-based software, the necessity to continue to drive feature and function was imminent. Ben Gemperline joins the ISONAS Pure Access development team as a new Senior Java Engineer and will be responsible for back-end application support and scaling the Pure Access system to the next level. Ben comes with a vast knowledge of SaaS architecture and brings an incredible level of expertise to the ISONAS team. He will be an integral part of the ISONAS engineering team in developing the companys next generation of IoT products and providing a performant application for ISONAS customers. These additional ISONAS team members bring great expertise and an entrepreneurial spirit that matches our fast- moving culture and allow us to expand our application and customer interactions, states Rob Mossman, CEO at ISONAS. We continue to invest our resources in our people and build a team that is second to none and push the Pure IP Revolution to the next level. On a sales front, ISONAS hired a new Regional Sales Manager on the west coast, Brian Koeck. Brian will be responsible for growing sales on the west coast in states west of the Mississippi river and will be working closely with ISONAS partners and customers. ISONAS has built long-term relationships with a team of certified integrators, distributors and manufacturer rep firms that Brian will be fostering and continuing to grow business in the western territory. He will also interact with the ISONAS inside sales and operations team to ensure that customers continue to have their expectations exceeded by ISONAS. ISONAS has a culture of quick witted-entrepreneurs that move quickly and are fully focused on their customer. This culture drives their product development and customer interaction and this philosophy is clearly seen in their powerful cloud based software solution, Pure Access, and the next evolution in IP access control hardware with the RC-04. With the right team in place, ISONAS will continue to expand and deliver the simplest and most flexible solutions in the access control market and take Pure IP access control to the next level. For further information, visit http://www.isonas.com. About ISONAS Inc. Since 1999 ISONAS has been revolutionizing access control with one simple solution and is todays leading manufacturer of Pure IP Access Control hardware. When paired with their industry leading cloud hosted software solutions or 3rd party full featured access control software, a complete access control platform is formed. An ISONAS system provides the perfect product solution for securing facilities while reducing costs and providing all of the advantages that Pure IP technology brings to the door. ISONAS is based in the global technology hub of Boulder, Colorado, and has one goal; to change the global access control market, and provide a product solution that is secure, reliable, trusted, and more technologically advanced than anything before. Today, the company is realizing that vision with the ISONAS solution installed globally in over 30 countries in a wide variety of vertical markets. ISONAS has been recognized as one of Boulder Countys fastest growing companies as well as by industry partners such as Milestone Systems, year after year for its powerful video and access control integration. For more information, visit: http://www.isonas.com or call 800-581-0083. ISONAS Company Contact: Melissa Stenger, VP of Product Management & Marketing ISONAS Inc. Phone: 303-951-7216 Email: melissas(at)isonas.com ISONAS PR Contact: Monique Merhige, President Infusion Direct Marketing & Advertising, Inc. Phone: 631-846-1558 Email: monique(at)infusiondirect.com If youre not committing to the channel, youre not committing to growth Lumeta Corporation, the authority on providing cyber situational awareness for rapid security response, today announced that Paul Kriksciun has joined the company as Director of Channels. Kriksciun joins Lumeta from Carbon Black where he led the companys East and Federal Channel Programs. At Lumeta, he will be responsible for the development, strategy and execution of programs to support the companys renewed focus supporting customers security needs through the channel. Todays customers are transitioning to and from the cloud, outsourcing business processes and exploring the Internet-of-Things, all of which create massive network security risks, said Pat Donnellan, CEO of Lumeta. Paul is a tremendous addition to the Lumeta team as we execute against our strategic vision to provide our customers with a comprehensive and cost-effective means of securing their network infrastructure. Since joining the team, Paul has already demonstrated his impact in helping further establish Lumeta as the trusted advisor companies need to keep their entire digital ecosystem safe and secure. Kriksciuns keen ability to identify the best elements for a successful, mutually beneficial security partnership was instrumental in helping develop Carbon Blacks award-winning Partner Program. Prior to that, he was director of Channel Field Marketing at Extreme Networks where he successfully grew its partner business by more than 150 percent to receive top performer recognition. If youre not committing to the channel, youre not committing to growth. I am excited to be working with a company like Lumeta whose team is fully committed to looking for new ways to enhance its already highly successful channel program, said Kriksciun. From my time working with channel programs within the security industry, I understand the challenges customers face when it comes to protecting their data in todays cyber risk landscape. Im passionate about working closely with partners to help bring more security and IT professionals the level of cyber situational awareness only Lumeta can provide. Kriksciuns appointment comes at a transformative period for the company as it looks to enhance its channel strategy to further drive company growth. The first phase of Lumetas updated channel plans will focus on refinement, prioritizing partnerships that offer real and immediate value-add to customers and being highly selective when it comes to working with new partners. Lumeta will then work to scale the program across the U.S., and into Canada and Europe. Lumeta Doubles-Down on Channel-First Approach Lumeta enables managed security service providers (MSSPs) to maximize their support and relevance to customers by eliminating blind spots in infrastructure while providing unique, real-time visibility from the endpoint to the cloud. This better protects customers from data breaches, while delivering significant and continuous profitability to MSSPs. Its cyber situational awareness platform, Lumeta Spectre, has the ability to discover rogue and shadow networks, endpoints or VMs in even the darkest corners of an organizations infrastructure to provide unmatched visibility and monitoring. Known for our special focus on the U.S. government, Red River customers serve across some of the most highly sensitive and regulated markets from intelligence and defense, to healthcare and commercial. Our customers not only require complete visibility into their entire digital network and security processes, but also need solutions that maximize the performance, efficiency and security of their critical infrastructure, said Dom Agostino, partner alliance manager at Red River. Lumetas cyber situational awareness platform delivers best-of-breed network visibility to empower customers across industries with the global visibility needed to keep their sensitive data protected. Organizations and IT departments are under mounting pressure to implement technology strategies that drive measurable improvements throughout the organization, especially in the area of network security, said Bob Anthony, President of Tri-Delta. Lumeta Spectre helps us maximize the value of IT for our customers, through its ability to quantify network risk and measure the impact of network change from key business and IT initiatives. Lumeta works closely with value-added resellers (VARs) and channel partners to provide network situational awareness solutions to enterprises and organizations around the world, including Structured, GuidePoint, Red River, Copper River ES, ePlus.ComGuard, Connect I.T. Solutions, Forsythe, JDL Group Optiv, Tri-Delta and Vector Synergy. The company also has industry-leading technology integration partners such as McAfee, Carbon Black, Cisco, Juniper Networks, Qualys, Rapid7, Splunk, VMware and others. To learn more about Lumetas Channel Partner Program, please visit: http://www.lumeta.com/company/partners/. ABOUT LUMETA Lumeta delivers real-time cyber situational awareness that quickly and effectively identifies and remediates threats before a breach impacts an organization. Lumetas cyber situational awareness platform, Lumeta Spectre, reduces the risk to companies by streamlining network response and change, and adding security intelligence to dynamic network elements, endpoints, virtual machines, cloud-based infrastructure, policies and segmentation changes. Lumeta complements and optimizes existing network and security product investments by feeding them accurate, comprehensive network intelligence. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, Lumeta has operations and clients throughout the world. Visit us at http://www.Lumeta.com or follow us on Twitter at @Lumeta. Kristin Norell The Childrens Reading Foundation national headquarters today announced CEO Rick Donahoe will retire on December 15. The board of directors selected Kristin Norell as the foundations next leader. Donahoe served as CEO since May 1, 2015, and joined the foundation in 2013 as the grant project director. During Donahoes tenure, the foundation reached parents, caregivers, and children in 25 states; more than at any other time in the foundations 20-plus-year history. Donahoe also successfully managed two U.S. Department of Education Innovative Approaches to Literacy grants, totaling $6.2 million. Those grants funded literacy and early learning initiatives to serve 48 very high-poverty school districts and communities in 15 states around the country. Serving children and families is very humbling, said Rick Donahoe, foundation CEO. Im blessed and grateful to have had the opportunity to give back in such a meaningful way. Kristin Norell, most recently international sales director for Chronicle Books in San Francisco, was named Donahoes successor by the board of directors. She will join the foundation and assume CEO duties on November 1. Norell has more than 20 years of sales, licensing, and marketing experience. She served on the board of The Childrens Reading Foundation from 2011 until her selection as CEO. Norell has strong ties to the international and publishing industry having held the roles of vice president at World Book, a Berkshire Hathaway company based in Chicago, and managing director, Asia for Universal Uclick, a subsidiary of Andrews McMeel Universal, the worlds largest independent syndication company, which provides content for print, online, and mobile devices. The future of the foundation is in very good hands with the selection of Kristin as the next CEO, Donahoe said. Her familiarity with the foundation, as well as her international publishing industry experience, is exciting for our next chapter. About The Childrens Reading Foundation: The national nonprofit was founded in 1996 in Kennewick, Washington, with the vision that every child learns to read at grade level by the end of third grade, thereby reaching his or her full potential in school and life. The foundation delivers national programs focused on reading skills and school readiness for children birth to age 8. The Childrens Reading Foundation helps establish local chapters in communities across the country. Learn more at ReadingFoundation.org. Keller Williams Realty International has pledged to invest $1 billion in technology platforms to support our agents and clients alike. Keller Williams San Francisco, one of the citys fastest growing real estate brokerages, has announced the Nov. 3 grand opening of its state-of-the-art California Street office. After several months of renovation, the historic building, located on California Street between Polk and Van Ness, is ready for its official unveiling. To mark the grand opening of the franchises newest San Francisco office, the company will host a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, Nov. 3, followed by a celebration featuring a cocktail reception, gourmet food, open bar with special guest bartenders, a DJ, and dancing. As the San Francisco branch of Keller Williams Realty International continues to grow, nearly doubling its number of producing agents over the last 12 months, the new office is one of three locations in San Francisco. With the addition of new and seasoned agents, the brokerage expects to see continued rapid growth as they build Mega Agent teams as well as Luxury, Commercial, and Leasing divisions, while offering new agent licensing through their partnership with CA Realty Training. The 5,000 square foot California Street office will serve as the companys main business center and training facility. The building will host 16 private offices, three conference rooms, a 1,000 square foot training room, two kitchenettes, and open areas for drop-in workspaces. We couldnt be more excited to launch this amazing work environment for our agents, says Wendy Davis, Team Leader of Keller Williams San Francisco. The details weve included into the office design reflect our agent-centric model--a state-of-the-art facility with collaborative workspaces, a training room, and a high-traffic storefront along iconic California Street--all give our agents a world-class incubator for growing themselves and their businesses. The real estate industry has really been changing over the last decade with the implementation of technology systems, making it difficult for the traditional brokerage model to compete in todays arena says Owner and Operating Principal, Rick Cunningham. Keller Williams Realty International has pledged to invest $1 billion in technology platforms to support our agents and clients alike. We plan to use these platforms to educate agents while providing tools and resources to help their clients in this evolving market. The opening of this office and our overall growing presence in the tech hub of San Francisco is a big step in the right direction for us and were excited about our future in the city. As Keller Williams continues to be the fastest growing real estate company globally, the opening of Keller Williams San Franciscos new office marks its expansion in one of the hottest real estate markets in the country. Event Details: What: Keller Williams San Franciscos Grand Opening Celebration Where: 1624 California St., San Francisco, CA 94109 When: Friday, Nov. 3, 4pm - 7pm RSVP: https://kwsfopening.eventbrite.com About Keller Williams San Francisco Keller Williams is a growing force in San Franciscos unique housing market. Known for its international presence and frequency of successful business transactions, the companys mission is to employ the highest quality real estate agents to provide clients with the best real estate experience. On a national level, Keller Williams Realty International holds the coveted triple crown--number one among all brokerages in agent count, number of transactions, and sales volume. After 1.5 years in the city, Keller Williams San Francisco has seen extraordinary growth. Since the start of 2017, the brokerage has increased its closed sales volume by 65%, its number of listings sold by 111%, and the total number of producing agents by 123%. Over the past 12 months Keller Williams Realty International has sold $295 billion worth of real estate worldwide. It has served the communitys needs in residential, luxury, commercial and new construction investments. For more information about Keller Williams San Francisco, visit http://www.kwsf.com/. Public Media Contact KWSF representatives are available for interviews and guest posting. For inquiries, please contact: Jonathan Banasky Marketing Director JBanasky(at)kw.com Lenddo and Entrepreneurial Finance Lab (EFL), leaders in credit decisioning for emerging markets, today announced they are joining forces. Lenders will use the combined companys unique platform to provide individuals worldwide with unprecedented, affordable access to convenient financial products. United by the common vision of providing financial inclusion for more than one billion new and underserved individuals across the globe, Lenddo and EFL will together provide a suite of credit scoring and identity verification products to more than 20 emerging markets. Were thrilled to join forces with Lenddo and create an undisputed, global category leader in alternative data for credit decisioning, said Jared Miller, CEO of EFL. This merger will allow us to apply the right data at the right time on a per client basis, allowing people to use their digital profiles and personality traits to increase their financial options. Financial institutions across emerging markets will be able to predict risk like never before through the combination of our data sources and innovative risk modeling techniques. Lenddo and EFL have individually facilitated over 5 million credit assessments since inception, allowing more than 50 financial institutions to disburse over $2 billion USD in credit to people with limited information. The combined company will work with banks, telcos, retailers, microfinance institutions and insurers to serve individuals and small businesses. The organizations will benefit from having access to the best globally-available data and leading machine learning and risk modeling techniques, enabling them to serve new and underbanked populations safely, quickly and cost-effectively. Individuals with little to no credit history will be empowered to choose if and when to use their own digital data, such as psychometric, social media, and mobile phone data, to access the financial services they need. With this merger, were delivering on our shared commitment to power leading financial institutions with cutting edge technology to serve emerging markets, said Richard Eldridge, Co-Founder and CEO of Lenddo. Were excited to advance our mission of financial inclusion on a global scale and work as one, united organization to bring together the best new digital and non-traditional data sources to improve access to financial services. The first joint product offering goes live in Asia and Latin America today, with additional products and features scheduled for release in the coming months. The agreement has been approved by their respective boards with no commercial terms being disclosed. Further details about the new, combined entity will be announced later this year. For more information, please visit https://include1billion.com. About EFL EFL helps lenders in emerging markets responsibly say yes to borrowers when others are forced to say no due to lack of information. EFL has developed a universal digital credit scoring technology that leverages psychometrics and behavioral science to effectively score anyone, anywhere, at any time. With 10 years of experience enabling over $1.6 billion in loans globally, EFL serves leading financial institutions across Latin America, Asia, Africa and Europe. About Lenddo Lenddo was founded in 2011 to improve financial inclusion around the world, enabling financial service providers to access and serve new and underserved markets using its disruptive technology and leveraging new sources of data, such as mobile and digital footprints. Lenddo's product suite includes credit scoring, where it processes hundreds of thousands of applications each month, in addition to digital verification and marketing insights solutions. Media Contact: Amie Vaccaro EFL Tel: +1-603-682-1747 Email: amie.vaccaro(at)eflglobal(dot)com Florentin Lenoir Lenddo Tel: +63-977-803-6014 Email: florentin.lenoir(at)lenddo(dot)com Darieth Chisolm, national media expert, presents a workshop at the 2017 Pittsburgh Business Show Joining the 2018 Pittsburgh Business Show as an attendee, speaker, or sponsor allows companies in the region to build their brand, generate sales and revenue, and meet decision makers that can help their businesses flourish. The Pittsburgh Business Show, the regions largest B2B trade show, business education, and networking event, will return to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on April 25-26, 2018. This two-day show features exhibitors, workshops, presentations, and networking opportunities for business owners, high-level managers, investors, entrepreneurs, and company buyers. The Pittsburgh Business Show was founded in 2016 to help grow the regions business community by building partnerships across the region, bringing professionals together to network, and connecting industry, resources, and people to other businesses. During our inaugural event, held over two days in April 2017, the Pittsburgh Business Show welcomed more than 150 exhibitors and thousands of attendees. We partnered with media outlets to drive our attendance numbers, with our reach approaching 10 million. As we prepare for our 2018 Show, we are focusing on expanding our offerings so that our business community can grow and prosper. Joining the 2018 Show as an attendee, speaker, or sponsor allows companies in the region to build their brand, generate sales and revenue, and meet decision makers that can help their businesses flourish, said Linda Jo Thornberg, President of the Pittsburgh Business Show. This event will feature 110,000 square feet of exhibitor space in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. Attendees will be able to choose from more than 40 speakers and workshops, network with industry peers, and shop for new products and services. The success of the 2017 Pittsburgh Business Show has created an opportunity to add additional resources that will better serve the regions business community. This includes educational components, such as workshops that offer continuing education unit credits, and presentations that encourage owners and employees to learn new skills. Pittsburgh is a town that thrives on building relationships, and our expansion for 2018 reflects that. We invite all businesses in the region to attend the Show so that they can use the insight, training, and networking opportunities that are available, said Linda Jo. Attendees can purchase one-day or two-day tickets from the Pittsburgh Business Show website at http://www.PittsburghBusinessShow.com. Currently, the Pittsburgh Business Show website features early registration specials for attendees and exhibitors. Business experts who are interested in presenting educational workshops at the Show, companies who would like to exhibit on the Show floor, and those who would like to sign up as a sponsor should contact the Show at 412-668-4990. About the Pittsburgh Business Show The vision of the Pittsburgh Business Show is to help build partnerships, bring professionals together for networking, and create opportunities for new and existing businesses. Our goal is to connect resources, industry and people from around the Pittsburgh area and introduce them to other businesses that will increase the economy while supporting the local region. Telehealth has become a part of our standard of care for individuals, with Congestive Heart Failure(CHF) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) adding to our tool chest of best practices to improve patient health. Community Visiting Nurse Association, a 4-Star home health agency for both patient quality of care and satisfaction in New Jersey, continues its excellence in care using innovative technology. Last quarter, patients on the telehealth program had a 30-day readmission rate of 7.89%. A dramatic difference from New Jerseys average readmission rate for such patients which currently stands at 16.9% while the national average is 16.7%. Patient empowerment and self management are important in taking control on ones illness, stated Alyce Brophy President and CEO of Community VNA. For the first six months of 2017, patients placed on Health Recovery Solutions (HRS) telehealth software had high adherence rates for taking their blood pressure (89.9%), pulse oximeter readings (82%), and weight (83.3%) every single day. The team at Community VNA delivers high quality care by incorporating advanced telehealth technologies that change the way in which patient care can be delivered. The HRS telehealth solution combines easy to use software utilizing tablets,customized for each patient with disease-specific tools including medication management, educational videos, teach-back quizzes, video visits, daily symptom surveys, biometric monitoring and more. Telehealth has become a part of our standard of care for individuals, with Congestive Heart Failure(CHF) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) adding to our tool chest of best practices to improve patient health, stated Ms. Brophy. Community VNA uses multiple nurses to monitor the patients on telehealth, not just a single telehealth nurse. The flexibility of being able to monitor patients with multiple users via mobile app and being able to receive high-risk alerts allows clinicians to stay on top of patients at high risk who are on the telehealth program wherever they are and even on weekends. These high-risk patients with several chronic diseases are now coming home with greater and greater needs presenting many unique challenges for home health agencies; Community VNA has incorporated a successful innovative telehealth program to help those high-risk patients under their care. The use of technology, specifically telehealth that promotes continuity of care, provides greater understanding of factors impacting care and overall improvement of clinical outcomes. We are proud to be able to provide this approach to care, stated Ms. Brophy. Community Visiting Nurse Association and its affiliates, Community VNS, Community Home Care and Community Care Hospice are non-profit home health and hospice providers serving Somerset, Middlesex and Warren counties. They are licensed by the State of New Jersey, certified by Medicare and Medicaid and accredited by Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP). Community VNA provides home health care, hospice care and community services. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.communityvna.org or call (908) 725-9355. For more information on Community VNAsTelemanagement program for patients receiving services through Community VNA, call 908-725-9355 or visit http://www.communityvna.org/Telemedicine.cms About HRS Health Recovery Solutions (HRS) supplies leading home care agencies with the most advanced remote monitoring platform focused on changing patient behavior to reduce readmissions and improve clinical outcomes. HRS disease-specific engagement kits are customized with educational video, care plans, medication reminders while integrated with Bluetooth peripherals to engage patients. For clinicians, HRS' software allows for the management of high-risk patients and provides seamless communication with them through video chat, wound imaging and text messaging. For family members and caregivers, HRS' software gives them the ability to be fully involved in their family member's care and well-being. To learn more about Health Recovery Solutions, visit http://www.healthrecoverysolutions.com or call (347) 699 6477. The federal government should not attack a business model that provides hardworking families with affordable childrens clothing. Cause of Action Institute (CoA Institute) today announced it will appeal a ruling by the district court that wrongly found that volunteers at Rhea Lanas childrens clothing consignment events must be considered employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Cause of Action Institute Vice President Julie Smith: The district court reached the wrong conclusion in taking an outdated view of a decades-old law intended to protect vulnerable individuals and groups from exploitation. The court freely conceded that Rhea Lanas labor practices are not designed to exploit anybody. We continue to believe that the Department of Labor has overstepped its authority. The federal government should not attack a business model that provides hardworking families with affordable childrens clothing. Rhea Lana Riner: Individuals should be free to volunteer their time for their own benefit. The Labor Departments crusade to classify volunteers as employees has put my business and livelihood in jeopardy. If everyone is satisfied, why would the federal government need to intervene? Case Background: Rhea Lana founded her clothing consignment business in her living room more than a decade ago. Since the companys humble beginnings, Rhea Lana, Inc. has expanded as a franchise with 80 locations across 24 states. In 2013, the U.S. Department of Labor conducted an audit, and sent Rhea Lana a letter claiming that her company was in violation of the FLSA regarding minimum wages and overtime pay. The government claimed that volunteers who help at the consignment events must be classified as employees. Rhea Lanas complaint was initially dismissed in 2014 for lack of a reviewable agency action. On appeal, however, the Court of Appeals held that the governments letter to Rhea Lana was subject to judicial review. Last month, the district court ruled in favor of the government. CoA Institute will represent Rhea Lana in her appeal of the district courts decision. Watch a video about Rhea Lanas story here. Rhea Lana Inc., et al. v. Department of Labor, No, 14-0017, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia Axiad IDS is a Trusted Identity solutions provider for enterprise, government and financial organizations. Partnering with a trusted identities expert like Axiad IDS takes the burden of implementing and managing a highly secure solution off the internal IT team, allowing them to focus on the organizations core business. - Bassam Al-Khalidi, Axiad IDS Co-CEO Axiad IDS, a leading provider of trusted identity and access solutions for enterprise, healthcare, government and financial organizations, today announced it has been invited to speak at two events hosted by Blue Cross Blue Shield in October. Axiad IDS Bassam Al-Khalidi, Co-CEO and Principal Consultant and Jerome Becquart, Vice President of Operations, will address industry leaders to share how the company is helping organizations implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) solutions to reduce the risk of breach by authenticating users, devices, and transactions. Beyond technical expertise, Axiad IDS is providing its customers with the freedom to confidently access online information and perform digital transactions anytime, anywhere and from any device. Horizon invests heavily to protect our policyholders information and works constantly to ensure that our technology partners are doing everything possible to stay one step ahead when it comes to cyber security, said Chris Golden, Information Security Risk Manager, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Every year we invite the industrys foremost experts on technology and security to speak at our Cyber Security Summit on topics like cloud security, authentication and access, and multi-factor authentication. This year we are honored to have Axiad IDS among our speaker line-up. Why Strong Multi-Factor Authentication? It is no secret that the U.S. healthcare industry is a top target for data breaches, to the tune of $6.2 billion a year. At the same time, identities based on passwords are no longer enough to protect critical information. Adding to the complexity, usernames/passwords are frustrating for users and compliance requirements are increasing. As a result, innovative MFA solutions are becoming the norm and in some cases, the requirement. The challenge for most companies is the deep technical knowledge required to implement a solution that addresses various business risks with appropriate security technologies as well as the bandwidth required to support the solution long-term, said Al-Khalidi. Partnering with a trusted identities expert like Axiad IDS takes the burden of implementing and managing a highly secure solution off the internal IT team, allowing them to focus on the organizations core business. Specifically, Axiad IDS is working with healthcare organizations to: reduce risk of breach by authenticating users, devices and transaction (internal and external) enhance user experience to facilitate adoption improve manageability to address skill shortage and reduce costs adhere to rigorous federal and industry-specific mandates, quickly and simply lower complexity, and Total Cost of Ownership through cloud implementation For more information about how Axiad IDS might help your organization visit: http://www.axiadids.com About Axiad IDS Axiad IDS provides Trusted Identity and Access solutions that offer customers the freedom to access online information and the confidence to perform digital transactions -- anytime, anywhere and from any device. Axiad IDS was founded by industry experts with extensive backgrounds in developing, deploying, and managing identity and access management solutions for enterprise, government and financial organizations. These experts have experienced first-hand the challenges associated with implementing and managing mission-critical identity systems, and are experienced in helping companies create business value by taking full advantage of the possibilities offered by the online digital world. Axiad IDS was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, CA. Top: Ellie Rocheleau (from left); Kelley Sweitzer; Steven Gursten; Kevin Chen. Bottom: Bonnie Raffaele (from left), Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, Nicole Sherman, Brandon Hewitt of Mich. Auto Law Our hope is to get these powerful distracted driving messages shared among as many high school students as possible to impact their decisions and stop this potentially deadly driving behavior. Three University of Michigan first-year students and a Zeeland high school senior earned college scholarship awards for their winning entries in Michigan Auto Laws second annual Kelseys Law Scholarship: Stop Distracted Driving Contest. The contest, sponsored by the Farmington Hills-based law firm Michigan Auto Law, calls for current high school students and recently graduated high school students from all over the state to submit compelling messages in video, Tweet or graphic form for the chance to win $5,000 worth of college scholarships. Our hope is to get these powerful distracted driving messages shared among as many high school students as possible to impact their decisions and stop this potentially deadly driving behavior, said Steven Gursten, auto and truck accident attorney and Michigan Auto Law founder. The Kelseys Law Scholarship is in honor of Kelsey Raffaele, a Sault Ste. Marie 17-year-old who inspired Michigans teen driving law after she was tragically killed in a 2010 car accident using her cell phone. Bonnie Raffaele, Kelseys mother, pushed Michigan legislators to pass Michigans first teen cell phone ban (Public Act 592 of 2012). The law prohibits cell phone use by teen drivers with a Level 2 graduated license, which is when 16-year-olds can drive a motor vehicle without an adult in the state of Michigan. A teen driver who violates this law by using a cell phone would receive a civil infraction. Kelsey had a heart bigger than the universe and she would have been thrilled that this contest is in her honor, Bonnie Raffaele said. If we can save just one life out of this tragedy, then our job has been done. The Kelseys Law Scholarship winners announcement coincides with the beginning of National Teen Driver Safety Week (https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/teens). The annual campaign, sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is designed to encourage all parents to talk to their teen drivers about the rules of the road. The four winning Kelseys Law Scholarship submissions are: Best Overall: Kelley Sweitzer Kelley graduated from East Lansing High School this past June and is currently attending the University of Michigan. She created a powerful video message about how choosing to drive distracted can not only affect your life, but the lives of everyone around you. No text is worth the risk. Best Video: Ellie Rocheleau Ellie graduated from Troy Athens High School this past June and currently attends college at the University of Michigan. In Ellies video, a teen driver is about to reply to a text until she has an encounter with her conscience. Ellies message: Save yourself from yourself. Best Graphic: Nicole Sherman Nicole, a senior at Zeeland West High School, created a graphic that depicts how texting and driving can turn a scene of eight close-knit friends into only seven. In it, seven teens have their arms linked at the shoulders, with the message below reading: Yesterday there was eight of them Dont let texting and driving cost you a friend #xMyText Best Tweet: Kevin Chen Kevin graduated from Canton High School this past June and is currently attending the University of Michigan. He needed just 106 characters (out of Twitters 140-character maximum) to explain what kind of danger can happen in 5-second increments: Would you drive with your eyes closed? With every text being a 5 second blindfold... IT CAN WAIT. #xMyText Entries were judged and critiqued on the following factors: Ability to persuade others, especially teen drivers, to stop texting while driving. Ability to grab the attention of friends, peers and family. A clear and understandable message. Demonstration of personal creativity and ingenuity. These students created the most influential and emotional messages that will truly resonate with teen drivers and were honored to further the cause of helping prevent teen crashes in the name of Kelsey, Gursten said. Bonnie has been tremendously courageous and we want to honor her crusade by also making it ours. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. The Michigan Department of State Police reports that in 2016, 11.1 percent of drivers involved in Michigan crashes were between ages 16 and 20 (59,865 drivers), while teens made up 8.9 percent (139 drivers) who were in fatal crashes. Further, MichiganTrafficCrashFacts.org reports that in 2016, 1,893 motor vehicle drivers in Michigan were reported to be using cell phones at the time of a crash and 18.3 percent were 20 years old or younger. As an auto accident attorney, Im seeing more and more of these distracted driving car accident cases, especially involving new teenage drivers. Myself and the attorneys at my law firm want to do everything we can to prevent them, he added. To view more details about each winner and their submissions, please visit http://www.michiganautolaw.com/kelseys-law-scholarship/winners. The 2018 Kelseys Law Scholarship Stop Distracted Driving Contest is now open for submissions. The deadline to apply is August 31, 2018. To apply, click here: http://www.michiganautolaw.com/kelseys-law-scholarship. About Michigan Auto Law: Michigan Auto Law is the largest auto accident law firm in Michigan, with 17 lawyers exclusively litigating serious automobile accident injury cases and No-Fault insurance litigation throughout the state. The law firm has received a top-reported jury verdict or injury settlement for a car or truck accident for the past 17 consecutive years, according to published year-end compilations by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. Michigan Auto Law has law offices in Farmington Hills, Detroit, Sterling Heights, Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor. For more information, visit http://www.michiganautolaw.com or call (800) 777-0028. About Steven M. Gursten: Steven Gursten is recognized as one of the nations top attorneys litigating serious auto accident injury and wrongful death cases. Steve is an active leader in many organizations, including President of the Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers Association, Chair-elect of the American Association for Justice Traumatic Brain Injury Group, and a Past Chair of the American Association for Justice Truck Accident Lawyer Litigation Group. He has been named a Michigan Lawyers Weekly Lawyer of the Year. Steve is also listed in Best Lawyers in America and is one of the Top 100 Lawyers in Michigan by Super Lawyers. He frequently lectures at legal seminars throughout the country on topics such as trial advocacy, truck accident litigation, the Michigan No-Fault law, traumatic brain injury and auto accidents. Rick Smith, senior director of global product training at JLG Industries, Inc. was recently honored with the ALH Person of the Year award by Access, Lift & Handler magazine. Access, Lift & Handler (ALH) magazine recently honored Rick Smith, senior director of global product training at JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company [NYSE:OSK] and a leading global manufacturer of aerial work platforms and telehandlers, with the ALH Person of the Year award during the groups annual conference Oct. 12 in Miami. Rick is a natural fit for this award, said Frank Nerenhausen, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, JLG Industries. He continually looks for, then develops innovative ways to improve JLGs training offering with a focus on improving industry-wide safety. Smiths nomination cited his leadership of a team that developed operator training programs and a new Train-the-Trainer program, which blends four weeks of asynchronous online training with three days of onsite training at the new JLG training center in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania. He was also instrumental in creating the hands-on training area and proving grounds, which provide a safe environment where participants can apply theory learned in the classroom. Additionally, the five-member panel of judges learned Smith played an instrumental role in developing the companys lift and access equipment virtual training simulator, which was on display at CONEXPO 2017. The simulator employs advanced gamification learning, similar to a video game experience, to familiarize operators with the controls and operations of boom lifts and telehandlers. He also launched AccessReady, a portal connecting potential mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) operators with qualified instructors and evaluators in their area. In addition, the nomination form highlighted Smiths membership in a number of professional organizations, including the ANSI A92.24 MEWP Training Standard subcommittee, ANSI A92.22 MEWP Safe Use subcommittee, ISO working group (ISO WG2), and IPAF North American region council, as well as his being published in several magazines this year as an industry expert. For information about JLG, please visit the website at http://www.jlg.com. About JLG Industries, Inc. JLG Industries, Inc. is a world-leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of access equipment. The Companys diverse product portfolio includes leading brands such as JLG aerial work platforms; JLG and SkyTrak telehandlers; and an array of complementary accessories that increase the versatility and efficiency of these products. JLG is an Oshkosh Corporation company [NYSE: OSK]. For more information about JLG Industries, Inc., visit http://www.jlg.com. About Oshkosh Corporation Founded in 1917, Oshkosh Corporation is 100 years strong and continues to make a difference in peoples lives. Oshkosh brings together a unique set of integrated capabilities and diverse end markets that, when combined with the Companys MOVE strategy and positive long-term outlook, illustrate why Oshkosh is a different integrated global industrial. The Company is a leader in designing, manufacturing and servicing a broad range of access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency, military and specialty vehicles and vehicle bodies under the brands of Oshkosh, JLG, Pierce, McNeilus, Jerr-Dan, Frontline, CON-E-CO, London and IMT. Today, Oshkosh Corporation is a Fortune 500 Company with manufacturing operations on four continents. Its products are recognized around the world for quality, durability and innovation, and can be found in more than 150 countries around the globe. As a different integrated global industrial, Oshkosh is committed to making a difference for team members, customers, shareholders, communities and the environment. For more information, please visit http://www.oshkoshcorporation.com. , All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains statements that the Company believes to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Companys future financial position, business strategy, targets, projected sales, costs, earnings, capital expenditures, debt levels and cash flows, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, words such as may, will, expect, intend, estimate, anticipate, believe, should, project or plan or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond the Companys control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include the cyclical nature of the Companys access equipment, commercial and fire & emergency markets, which are particularly impacted by the strength of U.S. and European economies and construction seasons; the Companys estimates of access equipment demand which, among other factors, is influenced by customer historical buying patterns and rental company fleet replacement strategies; the strength of the U.S. dollar and its impact on Company exports, translation of foreign sales and purchased materials; the expected level and timing of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and international defense customer procurement of products and services and acceptance of and funding or payments for such products and services; higher material costs resulting from production variability due to uncertainty of timing of funding or payments from international defense customers; risks related to reductions in government expenditures in light of U.S. defense budget pressures, sequestration and an uncertain DoD tactical wheeled vehicle strategy; the impact of any DoD solicitation for competition for future contracts to produce military vehicles, including a future Family of Medium Tactical Vehicle production contract; the Companys ability to increase prices to raise margins or offset higher input costs; increasing commodity and other raw material costs, particularly in a sustained economic recovery; risks related to facilities expansion, consolidation and alignment, including the amounts of related costs and charges and that anticipated cost savings may not be achieved; global economic uncertainty, which could lead to additional impairment charges related to many of the Companys intangible assets and/or a slower recovery in the Companys cyclical businesses than Company or equity market expectations; projected adoption rates of work at height machinery in emerging markets; the impact of severe weather or natural disasters that may affect the Company, its suppliers or its customers; risks related to the collectability of receivables, particularly for those businesses with exposure to construction markets; the cost of any warranty campaigns related to the Companys products; risks related to production or shipment delays arising from quality or production issues, including any delays as a result of a recent accident at the Companys Dodge Center manufacturing facility; risks associated with international operations and sales, including compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act; the Companys ability to comply with complex laws and regulations applicable to U.S. government contractors; cybersecurity risks and costs of defending against, mitigating and responding to a data security breach; and risks related to the Companys ability to successfully execute on its strategic road map and meet its long-term financial goals. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update information contained in this news release. Investors should be aware that the Company may not update such information until the Companys next quarterly earnings conference call, if at all. # # # As part of its commitment to provide financial tools, insights and education to help investors and financial advisors, Loring Ward has published "Your Legacy of Care," a practical book that details the key steps parents can take to ensure appropriate and sustainable care for a special needs family member. As any parent of a child or adult child with a disability knows, there are few more complex and challenging responsibilities than fashioning a plan to address short- and long-term considerations. "Your Legacy of Care: Providing for Your Special Needs Child Today, Tomorrow and Always" blends stories from parents of special needs children, compelling research and decades of personal and professional experience to assist those who seek to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities now and in the future. Madeleine Will, Vice President of the National Down Syndrome Societys Policy Center and Former Assistant Secretary of Special Education at the U.S. Department of Education, writes in the books foreword: Well-organized and comprehensive, this book actually succeeds in demystifying the planning process by suggesting what questions to ask, what factors to consider for prioritization, and what steps to take. Author Donald Bailey, who is both the father of a son with special needs and a successful financial planner, and co-author William Chettle, also with many years of experience in financial services, thoughtfully guide parents through topics such as investments, estate planning, education, tax considerations and how to ensure a lifetime of care. According to Meir Statman, Glenn Klimek Professor of Finance at Santa Clara University and a member of Loring Wards Investment Committee, Typical financial advice is centered on parents who support children through college but no longer. Yet children with disabilities need support long after their parents are gone. Donald Bailey and William Chettle provide an excellent guide to plans that assure such children of support throughout their lives. "Your Legacy of Care" can be purchased for $3.95 on Amazon.com. ABOUT LORING WARD Headquartered in San Jose, California, Loring Ward (LWI Financial Inc.) is dedicated to helping independent advisors become the most trusted and valued professional in their clients' lives. Loring Ward's Asset Class Investing philosophy combines market data, Nobel Prize-winning academic research and the latest discoveries in behavioral finance. From Investment Management to Business Management to Practice Development, Loring Ward has almost three decades of experience giving advisors the tools, training and support to provide a world-class experience for their clients. As of October 2017, Loring Ward has $16.3 billion in assets under management. For more information, please visit http://www.loringward.com. LWI Financial Inc. ("Loring Ward") is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Securities transactions are offered through its affiliate, Loring Ward Securities Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. R 17-292. Voyager is another clear example of the incredible development initiatives being performed at The Control Group. Were excited to support Voyager, which represents the culmination of a great idea and passionate execution. The Control Group released Voyager version 1.0 on GitHub on Sept. 18, 2017. As of publication, the open source Laravel admin package has earned nearly 4,500 stars. Voyager makes it easy to quickly build out websites and applications with maximum control over appearance and functionality. Other CMS platforms present developers and agencies with difficulties in terms of security, scalability and flexibility. However, Voyager empowers developers to add posts, delete users, add images, create menus, add settings, build forms and morewithout bloated code and slow plugins that present potential security breaches. This unique functionality provides Voyagers growing user base the capability to build out applications easier and faster than ever. Voyager was created by Tony Lea, a developer at The Control Group, a San Diego-based startup. Lea said, Voyager was something I built to fill a gap in the marketplace. It satisfied a clear need among the open source community, and I am lucky to have worked with so many great developers throughout this project. We were incredibly proud to have GitHub name The Control Group as a top-trending developer among the likes of Google, Facebook and Microsoft. I look forward to Voyagers future. Every day, code is being contributed to make it even better. President Steven Gray said, Voyager is another clear example of the incredible development initiatives being performed at The Control Group. Were excited to support Voyager, which represents the culmination of a great idea and passionate execution. To learn more about Voyager and follow its updates, visit its homepage: http://laravelvoyager.com. About The Control Group Created in 2011, The Control Group is one of the fastest-growing technology companies headquartered in San Diego. Their expertise is in web development and internet marketing. The company is the developer of InstantCheckmate.com, one of the top people search engines in the world, and NextGen Leads, an extremely high-quality insurance leads platform focused on streamlining lead acquisition. Because the company is already profitable, it has been able to develop a company culture that is shaking up the technology sector. At the core of its company culture, The Control Group seeks to make a positive impact in its community by volunteering, supporting and getting involved in numerous important causes. Rising Media, Inc., a global events producer that focuses on technology-related conferences, announced that Predictive Analytics World and the eMetrics Summit are hosting four co-located analytics events for business, marketing, healthcare, and financial services professionals. The events will focus on best practices in leveraging data and machine learning for competitive advantage in these sectors. The four events will share an exhibition hall and feature their own, industry-specific conference sessions and workshops, to take place from October 29 - November 2, 2017. Predictive Analytics World for Business features renowned machine learning and predictive analytics leaders and authors. Keynote speakers for the event include Anne Robinson, Executive Dir., Strategy, Analytics and Systems at Verizon; Jack Levis, Senior Director, Process Management at UPS; and Claudia Perlich, Chief Scientist, Dstillery. Predictive Analytics World for Financial Services brings together global experts in machine learning and predictive analytics for banking and insurance with business and thought leaders. Keynote speakers for the event include Steven Ramirez, CEO of Beyond the Arc; James Gottshall, Vice President of Strategic Analytics; and Julia Minkowski, Risk Analytics Manager of Signifyd (formerly Fiserv). Predictive Analytics World for Healthcare convenes top healthcare authors, thought leaders, practitioners, and top predictive analytics experts. Keynote speakers at the event include Dr. Ken Yale, JD, DDS, Senior Vice President & Chief Clinical Officer of Delta Dental of California; Jeff Deal, Vice President of Operations of Elder Research Inc.; Dr. Pamela Peele, Chief Analytics Officer at UPMC Health Plan & UMPC Enterprises; and Dr. George Savage, Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer, Proteus Digital Health. The eMetrics Summit highlights the intersection between data, technology, and marketing ROI. Featured speakers include David McBride, Director of Product Management, IBM Watson Customer Experience Analytics; Mary Owusu, Director of Analytics, Eric Mower + Associates; Brett A. Hurt, CEO and Co-founder, data.world; Claudia Perlich, Chief Scientist, Dstillery; Christi Olson, Search Evangelist, Microsoft; and Jim Sterne, Founder, eMetrics Summit. The four analytics events will share an exhibition hall. Sponsors include Datarobot, diwo, Dun & Bradstreet, The Trade Desk, DatabaseUSA, UCI Division of Continuing Education, MEE, Inc., Elder Research, Digital Analytics Association, Heap Analytics, Dataiku, ObservePoint, AT Internet, Klipfolio, Strala, Inc., TMMData, Inc., and West Virginia University College of Business & Economics. Anyone who is interested in becoming a sponsor can learn more about sponsorship opportunities for Predictive Analytics World here and for the eMetrics Summit here. About Rising Media Rising Media is a global events and media producer excelling in Internet and technology-related events and content. Events include Inside 3D Printing, RoboUniverse, Virtual Reality Summit, Data Driven Business, Building Business Capability, Predictive Analytics World, eMetrics Summit, Digital Growth Unleashed, AllFacebook Marketing Conference, AllInfluencer Marketing Conference, Search Marketing Expo, Affiliate Management Days, Influencer Marketing Days, Future of Immersive Leisure, Global Online Classifieds Summit, and Web Effectiveness Conference in the USA, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, India, China, Korea, Singapore, Australia, and Brazil. For more information, visit http://www.risingmedia.com. David Neal Found His Birth Mother Using Instant Checkmate It took me a bit of time to get myself composed enough to walk around the corner to the front door, and then be able to grab my mom and giver her a big hug. She was crying, and I was crying. It was pretty unbelievable. Nearly six decades ago, a hunting accident drove David Neals parents apart. He was ultimately adopted as a child. But decades later, Neal, 57, typed his birth mothers name into Instant Checkmate, a public records search website. Using the information he found in her report, he was able to reconnect with his birth parents, meet his siblings and grow the size of his extended family. Neals parents were high school sweethearts. But when his moms brother accidentally shot and killed his dads brother on a hunting trip, his parents were banned from seeing each other. When his mother became pregnant, her family made the decision to put Neal up for adoption. Nearly six decades later, Neal used Instant Checkmate to find his birth mothers contact information. The site aggregates information from public records and online sources into easy-to-read background reports, and Neal was able to find contact information for his siblings, mother and father. On June 24, 2017, Neal met his biological mother on his birthday. It took me a bit of time to get myself composed enough to walk around the corner to the front door, and then be able to grab my mom and give her a big hug, he said. She was crying, and I was crying. It was pretty unbelievable. In October, Neal will travel with his biological mother to Arkansas to meet his biological father. The family plans to celebrate his fathers 75th birthday and continue forging the bond they lost so many years ago. Instant Checkmate President Steven Gray said, Davids story reveals just how powerful Instant Checkmate can be. We pride ourselves in building a product that helps foster connections and build relationships. Being able to reunite lost friends and family across the country is a gratifying part of the work we accomplish here at The Control Group every day. Davids story is incredible, and I wish him and his newly extended family continued happiness. Neal said, Using the product helped me get ahold of my family, be able to talk to them, and get the visit set up. It worked really well for me. Further details about his story are available on Instant Checkmates blog. Instant Checkmate compiles information from public records into user-friendly background reports. People have used the website to reconnect with friends and family members, learn more information about neighbors and online dates, and look up almost anyone in the United States. Instant Checkmate offers background reports, reverse phone number searches, reverse email lookups, and reverse address lookups that display details like personal information, criminal records, contact details, location history, and more. About Instant Checkmate Instant Checkmate is an online service that provides people finder, public record and criminal record information to individuals on a subscription basis. Instant Checkmate aggregates data from federal, state and local sources, which have been processed and made available electronically. Some of the databases used by Instant Checkmate include state sex offender information, court dockets, census records, county arrest records and other public records. Instant Checkmate compiles public records and creates user-friendly reports describing people living in the U.S. Instant Checkmate is not a consumer-reporting agency, does not provide consumer reports and may not be used for consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening or any other purpose subject to the Fair Credit Reporting Act. For more information about how to use Instant Checkmate, please visit Instant Checkmates help page. "I strongly believe in the importance of Realtors in Real Estate Transactions" - Nathan Klutznick, CEO The K Company Realty The National Association of Realtors has announced that Nathan Klutznick, a Real Estate Broker from Pompano Beach, FL, has become a Golden R investor in the Realtors Political Action Committee. RPAC is a national bipartisan grassroots-based political advocacy organization that works to protect the real estate industry and the dream of home ownership for residents and across the country. His company has been listed by Inc. 5000 for 3 years running and has over 1,100 active agents in Florida and Colorado. In addition to his involvement in RPAC, Mr. Klutznick gives back to community via K Company Cares philanthropic initiatives. He was recently honored by the South Florida Business Journal 40 Under 40 for his business innovation and community contributions. He is involved at a local level as a Governor on the board of the largest Realtor association in the U.S. and a Florida Realtors Top 50 Broker. Mr. Klutznick has supported RPAC for many years and has been a member of the National Association of Realtors since 2005. His Real Estate Company, The K Company Realty, focuses on Realtors prosperity and preserving their role in the industry. He is a firm believer Real Estate is still best handled by a person, not a computer I support RPAC because doing so is important to our industry, said Klutznick. Since 1969, RPAC has promoted the election of pro-real estate candidates across the United States. The purpose of RPAC is to elect officials who understand and support the interests of real estate professionals and their home buying, selling and investing clients. RPAC uses its resources to seek to elect candidates that understand and support real estate, and to develop public policies that allow consumers to own homes and build their communities through commercial investment. Mr. Klutznicks investment will be applied to supporting home ownership, commercial real estate transactions, and the very future of the real estate industry. The National Association of Realtors, The Voice for Real Estate, is Americas largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. eOriginals Digital Mortgage technology provides Quicken Loans the ability to create an industry-leading SMARTDoc eNote for an eClosing, followed by eVaulting capabilities to support servicing of the mortgage and the accelerated movement of the asset to the secondary market. eOriginal, Inc. and Quicken Loans today announced a partnership to complete the final steps of the online mortgage process to digitally create an electronic note, and securely store it as an authoritative copy with delivery to both custodians and the secondary market. This advancement accelerates the time between origination and replenishment of capital. eOriginals Digital Mortgage technology provides Quicken Loans the ability to create an industry-leading SMARTDoc eNote for an eClosing, followed by eVaulting capabilities to support servicing of the mortgage and the accelerated movement of the asset to the secondary market, said eOriginal General Manager of Digital Mortgage Simon Moir. Quicken Loans decision was driven by our proven track record of providing highly scalable solutions in mortgage and non-mortgage asset classes to expedite secondary market financing from weeks to days. Quicken Loans, the countrys largest online mortgage lender, closed more than $7 billion in mortgage volume through Rocket Mortgage, the nations first fully online mortgage process, in 2016 its first full year in market. The rapid growth of Rocket Mortgage comes from its appeal to a new generation of homebuyers. In fact, two-thirds of Rocket Mortgage clients used the online process to finance a home purchase, and 80 percent of those consumers were first-time home buyers. While millennials are more likely to use Rocket Mortgage, adoption has been strong across all demographics. Quicken Loans has worked diligently to provide clients a completely online mortgage experience from application to closing. The next step in this evolution is to digitally move the note to the industry stakeholders who need it, said Jay Farner, Quicken Loans CEO. Taking the mortgage process online provides home buyers with accuracy, clarity and transparency in addition to speed and convenience. We are fanatical about innovating and will continue to invest our time and resources in technology that helps us breaks down the cumbersome barriers of the old-fashioned mortgage process. From an investor perspective, the eNote is the most critical component of a mortgage transaction. Additionally, the eVault is designated as the location for a given note and it holds the authoritative copy, or the electronic original copy. eOriginals platform delivers a fully digital mortgage and supports every type of digital closing strategy. Available for both Mortgage Electronic Registration System (MERS) and non-MERS loans, the platform has been vetted in mortgage, auto finance and lease, deeded vacation ownership, and marketplace lending. It is accepted by the major rating agencies, issuers counsel, top lenders and investors in the secondary markets. The platform can leverage any loan origination system (LOS) or document preparation provider and is designed to be extensible as lenders complete their digital transformation. Earlier this year, Fannie Mae, the largest Government Sponsored Enterprise (GSE) in the United States, selected eOriginal for the launch of its next generation electronic vault, which involved moving billions of dollars of assets onto its hosted platform to enable the secure management of eNotes throughout their lifecycle. Fannie Maes utilization of eOriginals platform validated the benefits of the companys platform, including enhanced storage capabilities, accelerated deployment and reduced overall costs. About eOriginal eOriginal is the leading provider of Digital Transaction Management solutions to the financial services industry. The eAsset management platform is 100 percent secure, enabling originators, custodians, investors and others to digitize lending and securitization processes. eOriginal solutions ensure that every transaction is verifiably secure, legally compliant and enforceable. As the first company to execute a digital mortgage, eOriginal is also core to the digital transformation of the mortgage industry. For more information, visit http://www.eoriginal.com. About Quicken Loans Detroit-based Quicken Loans Inc. is the nations second largest retail home mortgage lender. The company closed more than $300 billion of mortgage volume across all 50 states between 2013 and 2016. Quicken Loans moved its headquarters to downtown Detroit in 2010, and now more than 17,000 team members from Quicken Loans and its Family of Companies work in the citys urban core. The company generates loan production from web centers located in Detroit, Cleveland and Scottsdale, Arizona. The company also operates a centralized loan processing facility in Detroit, as well as its San Diego-based One Reverse Mortgage unit. Quicken Loans ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Primary Mortgage Origination in the United States by J.D. Power for the past seven consecutive years, 2010 2017, and highest in customer satisfaction among all mortgage servicers the past four years, 2014 2017. Quicken Loans was ranked No. 10 on FORTUNE magazines annual 100 Best Companies to Work For list in 2017, and has been among the top 30 companies for the past 14 consecutive years. The company has been recognized as one of Computerworld magazines "100 Best Places to Work in IT" the past 13 years, ranking No. 1 for eight of the past 12 years, including 2017. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rock Holdings, Inc., the parent company of several FinTech and related businesses. Quicken Loans is also the flagship business of Dan Gilberts Family of Companies comprising nearly 100 affiliated businesses spanning multiple industries. For more information and company news visit QuickenLoans.com/press-room. Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley recently filed a lawsuit against three major opioid manufacturers, accusing them of a deliberate campaign of fraud;(1) and he has subsequently expanded his investigation to include seven additional pharmaceutical companies.(2) Novus Detox Center, a preeminent Florida-based drug treatment provider, believes painkiller manufacturers should be held responsible for their role in the U.S. opioid crisis and hopes that Missouri and other states will find recourse through the law. In 2015, Missouris age-adjusted rate of drug overdose deaths was 17.9, with overdoses claiming 1,066 lives statewide.(3) Last year, opioid overdoses aloneincluding prescription painkillers and heroinled to 712 fatalities in the St. Louis metro area that spans Missouri and Illinois.(1) Hawley claims that opioid manufacturers have directly contributed to the current crisis by deceiving physicians and patients about the risks of the medications they make and market. Missouris June 2017 lawsuit outlines evidence against Purdue Pharma, Endo Health Solutions and Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and is seeking hundreds of millions of dollars in damages against them.(1) In late August, Hawley expanded his investigation to include seven additional firmsAllergan, Depomed, Insys, Mallinckrodt, Mylan, Pfizer and Teva Pharmaceuticalsthat he believes may have engaged in deception, fraud, false promise, misrepresentation, unfair practices, and/or the concealment, suppression or omission of material facts in connection with the sale or advertisement of opioids.(2) Opioid manufacturers have long downplayed or even falsified the risks of their prescription painkillers, spending vast sums on marketing, advertising and lobbying while leaving states to deal with rising opioid use disorders and overdose deaths, asserted Bryn Wesch, CEO of Novus Detox Center. If pharmaceutical firms had been transparent about opioids potential for misuse and abuse from the outset, we likely would not be dealing with a national epidemic today. Instead, their relentless pursuit of profits and callous disregard for patients long-term health and wellbeing continues to destroy lives and impose a growing economic burden. Missouris legal salvo follows similar cases initiated by Mississippi and Ohio earlier this year(1) as well as a Cherokee Nation opioid lawsuit filed in April. Though some policy experts suggest the allegations may be challenging to prove, oxycodone manufacturer Mallinckrodt has already agreed to pay a $35 million settlement following a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation.(1) Among the evidence cited in Hawleys lawsuit are drug makers dismissal of addiction symptoms as pseudoaddiction, Purdues medically inaccurate Opioid Risk Tool and pharmaceutical firms use of third-party advocacy groups to disseminate misleading narratives regarding opioids safety.(1) The sheer number of patients prescribed opioidscombined with the push for high-dose painkillers and their widespread use to treat chronic painhas left millions of Americans trapped in a vicious cycle of dependency, explained Wesch. Its vital to help those with substance use disorders obtain the treatment they need to safely taper down from and end their opioid use, and we believe painkiller manufacturers should be helping to fund those treatments. As a growing number of states pursue legal recourse to hold drug manufacturers accountable for their actions and deceptions, I hope we will see more patients gain access to the care they need to reclaim their lives from opioids. Wesch advocates for patients to receive expert, integrated care throughout their journey to recovery, from safe and effective opioid detox programs to referrals to reputable drug rehab and outpatient services. She is a proponent of medically supervised and individually customized detox treatments coupled with emotional support to help recondition both body and mind, creating a solid foundation for sustainable sobriety and empowering patients to achieve a healthy, drug-free life. For more information on Novus Detox Center and its medically supervised opioid treatment programs, visit https://novusdetox.com. About Novus Detox Center: Novus Detox Center is soon to be operating two inpatient medical detox facilities that are licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families and have earned The Joint Commissions Gold Seal of Approval for Behavioral Health Care Accreditation. Renowned for its pioneering approach to Sustainable Sobriety, Novus provides safe and effective alcohol and drug detox programs that combine next-generation treatment protocols, 24/7 medical supervision and integrated, individualized care. By conditioning the body and mind to re-imagine a fulfilling, drug-free future, Novus empowers patients on their journey to recovery and creates a solid foundation for long-term success. Novus is committed to leading the way in patient experience, both as a detoxification expert and a supportive partner in ongoing health and wellness, and is dedicated to pushing industry standards forward. The original Florida detox facility is located in New Port Richey (outside Tampa) and another is soon to open in West Palm Beach; both feature a wide range of amenities, delicious and healthy meals, and a relaxing, spa-like environment to ensure the withdrawal process is as stress-free and comfortable and as possible. For more information on Novus medically supervised detox programs, visit https://novusdetox.com. 1. Bouscaren, Durrie. Missouri Attorney General Sues Three Opioid Drugmakers Over False Claims, Advertising; St. Louis Public Radio; June 21, 2017. news.stlpublicradio.org/post/missouri-attorney-general-sues-three-opioid-drugmakers-over-false-claims-advertising 2. Zhou, Janice. Missouri Attorney General's Office Announces Investigation Into Opioid Marketing; Columbia Missourian; August 30, 2017. columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/missouri-attorney-general-s-office-announces-investigation-into-opioid-marketing/article_7f77aa2a-8dc7-11e7-bd4e-e30466f93dd6.html 3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Drug Overdose Death Data: 2015 Deaths; CDC website; last updated December 16, 2016. cdc.gov/drugoverdose/data/statedeaths.html These outstanding individuals have made significant contributions to the industryand their dedication and creativity furthers our goal to bring health and wellness to people around the globe. The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) today announced winners of its prestigious Global Wellness Awards, which honor outstanding industry leaders in seven categories. Dr. Richard Carmona, M.D., the 17th Surgeon General of the United States and Chief of Health Innovation, Canyon Ranch, received the Summits first Leader in Social Impact award for his commitment to expand access to health and wellness to all people around the world. In a surprise announcement, Susie Ellis, Chairman and CEO of the Global Wellness Summit, introduced Jane Iredale, founder of Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, Ltd, who presented spa and wellness visionary Deborah Szekely with the first GWS Wellness Award for Living a Well Life. Szekelywho recently celebrated her 95th birthdayco-founded Rancho La Puerta in 1940 and the Golden Door in 1958. Recognized for embodying wellness principles and practices throughout her life, she received a standing ovation from delegates who gathered to honor her renowned contributions to the industry. Id like to congratulate this years Global Wellness Award winners and thank the sponsors and the Global Wellness Summit Advisory Board for making these important honors possible, said Ellis. These outstanding individuals have made significant contributions to the industryand their dedication and creativity furthers our goal to bring health and wellness to people around the globe. Members of the GWS Advisory Board selected all winners and along with award sponsors presented honorees with their awards at the annual Summit held at The Breakers Palm Beach. GWS Social Impact Award The Social Impact Award, which honors a leader who has worked to make it possible for more people and societal groups to live healthier, happier lives, was presented to Dr. Richard Carmona by Dilip Barot, founder of Amrit Ocean Resort and Residences in Riviera Beach, Florida. The Social Impact Award is close to my heart, said Barot. Giving and sharing what we have with others, especially those in need, has been instilled in me from my childhood. In his emotional acceptance, Dr. Carmonawho also received a standing ovation from delegates said, I have been inspired to help others by being hungry and homeless as a child. I am humbled, flattered and undeserving of this award, and being part of this team is the best honor I could have received. Raised in Harlem, of Puerto Rican descent, Dr. Carmona is a nurse, physician, police officer, public health official, combat-decorated Vietnam veteran and the 17th Surgeon General of the United States. He has used his position on the world stage to advocate for disease prevention and for access to health services for the underserved. He is also a member of the board of the Global Wellness Institute and is working to achieve the recently announced Wellness Moonshot and a world free of preventable disease. GWS Living a Well Life Award Jane Iredale, who presented the Living A Well Life award to Deborah Szekely said, When we think about who was the first person to receive this award, we will say, how appropriate, how deserving, how inspiring that it was given to Deborah. Szekely remarked, The award will be on my desk to remind me to deserve it. Szekely is recognized for her lifelong commitment to wellbeing and for inspiring others to learn from her example. All 2017 Global Wellness Award Winners The complete list of Global Wellness Award winners includes these wellness leaders who received their awards from the presenting sponsors, accompanied by members of the Global Wellness Summit Advisory Board. Leader in Innovation: Steve Nygren, Co-founder of Serenbe Presenting Sponsor: Sammy Gharieni, founder and CEO of the Gharieni Group GWS Advisory Board: Tony deLeede, Founder, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Australia The award is presented to a global innovator from any wellness sector. Nygren created one of the first wellness communities in the world to protect the rural land just outside of Atlanta known as Chattahoochee Hill Country. Leader in Sustainability: Neil Jacobs, CEO of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Presenting Sponsor: Donald Mayer, Global Business Development Manager, UL Environment GWS Advisory Board: Mary Tabacchi, PhD, RD, Professor Emerita, Cornell University, U.S. This award honors a leader or innovator in, or advocate for, sustainability in all its diverse forms. Jacobs has combined his creative vision of global hospitality and his passion for sustainability, impacting how people view their destination experiences. Leading Woman in Wellness: Julie Bach, Founder of Wellness for Cancer Presenting Sponsor: Miriam Senft, President & CEO, Motivity Partnerships, Inc., U.S. GWS Advisory Board: Yoriko Soma, President & CEO, Conceptasia Inc, Japan This award honors a woman who is making a contribution in any of the wellness sectors whether as an entrepreneur or as a health and wellness champion. Through her organization, Wellness for Cancer, Bach works to bring wellness to those who have experienced or are living with cancer by connecting them with spa and wellness providers who seek to serve them. Leader in Workplace Wellness: Renee Moorefield, PhD, CEO and Founder of Wisdom Works Presenting Sponsor: Josh McCarter, CEO, Booker Software, U.S. GWS Advisory Board: Mia Kyricos, President & CEO, Kyricos & Associates LLC This award recognizes a leader in the field of workplace wellness and health promotion. Moorefield was honored for helping forward-thinking clients embed wellbeing strategies in the workplace and produce results that matter. Debra Simon Award for Leader in Furthering Mental Wellness: Filmmaker Louie Schwartzberg Presenting Sponsor: Lauren Wright, President, Debra Simon Family Foundation & Daughter of Debra Simon, U.S. GWS Advisory Board: Gina Diez Barroso de Franklin, President & CEO, Grupo Diarq, Mexico This award honors an individual who has achieved excellence in the field of mental health and wellness and has been a leader, advocate or innovator in wellness programs and pathways that help people thrive mentally. Schwartzbergs inspiring films are used in hospitals and wellness centers to help people deal with stresses and anxieties, and he is a leading voice for emotional and mental wellness. Leader in Social Impact: Dr. Richard Carmona, 17th Surgeon General of the United States and Chief of Health Innovation, Canyon Ranch Presenting Sponsor: Dilip Barot, Founder, Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences, U.S. GWS Advisory Board: Omer K. Isvan, President, Servotel Corporation, Turkey This award honors a leader who has worked to make it possible for more people and societal groups to live healthier, happier livesand whose work in the field of wellness has made a meaningful social impact. (See more about Dr. Carmona above.) Living a Well Life Award: Deborah Szekely Presenting Sponsor: Jane Iredale, Founder, Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, Ltd GWS Advisory Board: GWS Chairman & CEO: Susie Ellis The Living a Well Life Award is given to someone who embodies, with fierce devotion, wellness principles and practices throughout his or her life. They lead by example, and their choices regarding mind, body and spirit serve as an example to us all. (See more about Deborah Szekely above.) The GWS is considered the worlds most prestigious gathering of leaders from every sector of the wellness industry: tourism, spa, education, beauty, fitness, nutrition, finance, environment, medicine, architecture, workplace wellness, wellness communities and technology. This year, a record 600-plus delegates from over 40 countries participated in the three-day Summit. About the Global Wellness Summit: The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) is an invitation-only international gathering that brings together leaders and visionaries to positively shape the future of the $3.74 trillion global wellness economy. Held in a different location each year, the Summit attracts delegates from all over the world. Summits have taken place in the U.S., Switzerland, Turkey, Bali, India, Morocco, Mexico City, and Austria. The 2017 Global Wellness Summit was held at The Breakers Palm Beach, October 9-11. The 2018 Summit will be held October 6-8 at Technogym Village, Cesena, Italy. Our Town America 45th Anniversary As a company committed to new movers chasing big dreams, were excited about moving to a new facility custom-built to fuel our future growth at Our Town America - Michael Plummer, Jr. Our Town America, the nations first and fastest growing new mover marketing franchise and one of Tampas largest and most successful franchise companies according to the Tampa Bay Business Journals 2017 Book of Lists, is moving this fall. The company will open a brand-new, state-of-the art, 44,000 square foot facility located at 13900 US Highway 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33764-7238 on October 20th, 2017. 2017 has been a landmark year for Our Town America as the local company celebrates 45 years in business. Our Town America has generated 26% franchise system growth in the past two years and is on pace to set a record in franchise sales this year with 12 new locations. To accommodate this rapid growth, Our Town America is actively recruiting 15-20 appointment setting and sales representatives to help new and existing franchisees thrive in markets around the country. Our Town Americas CEO, Michael Plummer, Jr., says this sustained growth is the primary catalyst for the companys relocation and believes the new Clearwater facility gives them room to grow. As a company committed to new movers chasing big dreams, were excited about moving to a new facility custom-built to fuel our future growth, says Plummer. Our new Clearwater headquarters is more than double the size of our current Pinellas Park location, giving us an opportunity to hire dozens of talented Tampa-based residents in the coming months/years. We cant wait to move to the new facility thats been designed to remind us of fond memories while pushing us to reach new heights. Our Town America is a family-based business (Plummers father, Michael Plummer Sr., started Our Town America in 1972) that prioritizes long-term, loyal relationships, so its no surprise the company partnered with Mike Sinwelski (Plummers childhood friend and a highly reputable local general contractor) to build the new Clearwater facility. Plummer remembered driving Sinwelski to school during their Catholic school days and already knew he could trust him. So, when the Mike Sinwelski Construction, Inc. team came in with a great plan and reasonable price, it was a no-brainer partnership. The partnership has worked out beautifully as the new facility will open on time despite the challenges presented by Hurricane Irma. When the doors open on October 20th, Our Town America employees will be greeted by fantastic new features, including A high-tech, 2,700 square feet conference room large enough for company-wide meetings A massive break room perfect for collaboration and company events Energy-efficient LED panels and lights throughout the building and a massive roof area offering solar energy options Windows lining the entire building offering all employees great views And a large pond and fountain at the entrance creating an inviting ambiance Plummer says the expansion and design are all about helping each Our Town America employee thrive. It sounds cliche, but we truly are committed to our culture and our people at Our Town America, says Plummer. First of all the central county location keeps us out of flood zones, something thats particularly important after Hurricane Irma, and offers a more convenient commute for most current employees. Plus, the design itself embraces our core values with large, well-lit spaces encouraging creativity, interaction, and growth. And of course, we have plenty of room for the pot lucks and holiday parties that bring our team together at the office. We truly are a big family over here at Our Town America and were excited about our new home! For more information on Our Town America and what we do for new movers and local businesses, please visit http://www.ourtownamerica.com/. For more information about the Our Town America franchise opportunity, please visit http://www.ourtownamerica.com/franchise-us/. About Our Town America For 45 years, Our Town America has been providing new movers with traditional hospitality by mailing warm housewarming gifts from local neighborhood businesses in a premium welcome package. Since the company started franchising in 2005, Our Town America has consistently been placed in the Franchise Top 50, ranking top in their category for franchisee satisfaction. Our Town Americas dedication to the sponsor exclusivity concept, meaning Our Town America will only recommend one of each business type in any specific zip code within its welcome packages, has been one of the key catalysts for the companys long-term success. In addition, sponsors consistently rave about other unique aspects of the new mover marketing program such as their ability to reach a brand-new audience of impressionable new movers each month and the insightful data/metrics delivered by Our Town Americas innovative pinpoint tracking system. Due in large part to Our Town Americas devotion to those concepts, thousands of satisfied business owners throughout the United States attest to the success and effectiveness of the program. Additionally, dozens of locally owned franchisees validate Our Town Americas concept as a viable business opportunity. It is Our Town Americas mission to assist new movers adjusting to their community, help businesses gain new and loyal customers and provide franchisees with an excellent opportunity. The eight million households who receive Our Town Americas welcome packages each year prove that Our Town America is committed to following through on that mission statement. For more information, visit the Our Town America website at http://www.ourtownamerica.com or call 1-800-497-8360. Why just have corporate incentives for groups? Why not let people define their own friends and family group and reward it? If you wait until retirement to go see the Parthenon, you might not make it up the steps. Wise words from an anonymous traveler. Windstar Cruises with small ships visiting 170 ports from Asia to Alaska, Canada, New England, the Caribbean, South Pacific, and Europe is applauding a growing trend among its guests: celebrating milestone moments as they define them. Were talking taking that cruise to Alaska because you crave one more child-free adventure with your friends before baby is born, or you just got divorced and want to enjoy your new happiness with those BFFs who truly support you. People are living more and more in the moment with their friends and family, celebrating these decisions and markers that go far beyond the typical and expected times to commemorate life milestones. We have been seeing this trend and decided to do something to support it, said Steven Kona Simao, vice president of sales for Windstar. Why just have corporate incentives for groups? Why not let people define their own friends and family group and reward it? So they did. So many people are traveling in groups that Windstar, on select dates, will give a free cruise to the eighth cruiser for every seven people booked. Thats a major value, said Simao. Some people keep the free cruise for themselves, while others divvy up the savings with the rest of the group. On higher-demand cruises, its one free cruise for every nine people that are booked. In addition, groups also get a discount off of standard guest fares, as well as a $100 per person shipboard credit to use on things like massages, shore excursions, or a bottle of bubbly. However guests choose to celebrate or share the savings, Windstar is also able to help elevate the festivities with a variety of intimate celebration options on board their vessels, which carry no more than 310 guests on itineraries around the globe. From vow renewals performed by the captain with a personalized cake baked by the culinary crew (gluten-free if need be), to private cocktail parties in one of the larger public spaces on board or a guest suite, there are plenty of ways to make moments special together. Windstar may also arrange for memorable shore excursions and other activities exclusively for the group. And of course, theres also the option of gathering a group to join one of Windstars incredible themed cruises, or a delicious foodie-focused sailing on Windstars James Beard Foundation Culinary Cruise Collection. This is the beauty of small ship cruising with Windstar: flexibility and completely tailor-made revelries, no matter what milestone youre celebrating or just because. For additional information on private yacht-style cruising and organizing a group with Windstar, contact your travel agent or Windstar Cruises at 877-958-7718, or visit http://www.windstarcruises.com. StrongMind, a leading digital curriculum solution provider for secondary schools, announced today it has received a Rocky Mountain Regional Emmy Award for its StrongMind digital curriculum video, Motion Isaac Newtons Second Law" (https://vimeo.com/210864595), in the category of Education. StrongMind is committed to helping students learn through relevant and engaging digital experiences, said StrongMind Founder and CEO, Damian Creamer. The Motion video is just one example of our world class content that unlocks the magic of learning, and Im so proud of our team for continuing to raise the bar in digital curriculum. Motion and all StrongMind videos incorporate a captivating story format and cutting-edge 3-D animation that bring significant figures and concepts to life to promote deeper learning and improved academic outcomes. The videos are developed by collaborative teams of highly skilled education and creative experts passionate about providing students with lessons that engage and expand the mind. We approach every lesson element with the determination to create a masterpiece that students will not only love, but that they will learn from, said StrongMind Digital Curriculum Creative Director, Adam Denning. This dedication along with our attention to detail and commitment to quality is taking online learning to a whole new level. The Rocky Mountain Southwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (http://rockymountainemmy.org) is dedicated to excellence in television by honoring exceptional work through the prestigious Emmy Award. The 40th Annual Rocky Mountain Emmy Awards ceremony was held on October 14 at the Chateau Luxe in Phoenix, Arizona. About StrongMind StrongMind is helping U.S. secondary schools democratize education with its rigorous and engaging digital curriculum for grades 6-12 and state-of-the-art courseware platform. It is the ideal solution for schools committed to offering their students the highest quality online education. StrongMind digital curriculum has recently earned more than 35 awards including several Regional Emmy Awards and Tellys, as well as an EdTech Digest Award, A SIIA CODiE and a Serious Play Competition Award. To learn more, visit http://www.StrongMind.com. Inventus Power, a systems manufacturer of battery packs, chargers and power supplies for the military, consumer, commercial/industrial and medical markets, today announced it entered into an agreement with Spartan Strategy and Risk Management to develop new proprietary mobile power solutions for government and defense applications. Led by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ronald J. Clark, Spartan Strategy works intensely with innovative companies and partners that provide distinctly differentiated and uniquely valuable products to the warfighter or first responder, with the end goal of enabling partners to drive growth, build relationships and enhance product development, adoption and positioning. Dr. Clark is a former Deputy Under Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security where he led a combined team of over 16,000 federal law enforcement, civilian and contracted personnel. Dr. Clark previously served in the White House under President Barack Obama, President George W. Bush and enabled the transition with the Trump Administration. Dr. Clark also spent over 20 years as a Marine Corps infantry and force reconnaissance officer. Dr. Clarks thorough and first-hand knowledge of the mission-critical power requirements for the warfighter and first responder in the field is an invaluable asset to Inventus Power, said Mike Stein, Director of Military & Defense Product & Program Management for Inventus Power. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to leverage his experience to continue to develop safe, lightweight, rugged and long-lasting dependable power solutions to OEMs developing devices for defense and government industries. Inventus Power has already proven itself as a capable force behind the military, government and defense markets. Its Conformal Wearable Battery (CWB) product line offers a safe, ergonomic, centralized power solution that reduces weight and the overall number of batteries for up to 72 hours before needing to replace or recharge batteries, said Dr. Clark. The companys dedication to providing the military with cutting-edge solutions, makes me confident that Spartan Strategy and Inventus Power will together create innovative mobile power solutions to support devices that keep warfighters and first responders safely powered up while in the field. Inventus Powers global manufacturing facilities are ISO 9001:2008 and EISA, ROHS, and CEC compliant. Its U.S. facility additionally meets International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and manufactures to MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461 standards. About Inventus Power: Inventus Power, founded in 1960, is the leading provider of advanced battery systems for global OEMs. We specialize in the design and manufacture of battery packs, chargers, and power supplies across a broad range of portable, motive & stationary applications. With multi-country locations across four continents and manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, China, & Malaysia, we are strategically positioned to support the needs of global brands. From design & engineering to performance testing & mass production, Inventus Power provides accelerated end-to-end solutions. Our broad market/application expertise, technology agnostic approach, global footprint, and vertical integration allow us to deliver safe, reliable & innovative power solutions at an exceptional speed to market. For more information about Inventus Power, please visit http://www.inventuspower.com and follow @inventuspower. In this months NEPC Education Interview of the Month, Lewis and Clark College Emeritus Professor of Education Gregory A. Smith talks with Michigan State University Professor Alyssa Hadley Dunn, the author of a series of articles about teachers viral resignation letters, including Activism through attrition?: An exploration of viral resignation letters and the teachers who wrote them, Leaving a Profession After Its Left You: Teachers Public Resignation Letters as Resistance Amidst Neoliberalism, and With regret: The genre of teachers public resignation letters. Join Smith and Dunn for an engaging conversation about what can be learned about working conditions in contemporary U.S. schools from teachers resignation letters. In their studies of the letters, Professor Dunn and her colleagues found that no matter what state teachers were from or how long they had been in the profession, all were experiencing the current neoliberal policy context in much the same way. They felt like learning had been reduced to teaching to the test, learning opportunities had been curtailed, and that their own voices as teachers were being continually silenced, Dunn noted. They also experienced frustration in constantly dealing with top-down mandates and increasing bureaucracy at the same time as they saw their salaries and benefits stagnating or even decreasing. We found that overall, the letters paint a very stark reality of teaching in public schools today. A new NEPC Education Interview of the Month, hosted by Gregory A. Smith, will be released each month from September through May. Dont worry if you miss a month. All NEPC Education Interview of the Month podcasts are archived on the NEPC website and can be found here. Coming Next Month In November, Gregs guest will be Ken Zeichner of the University of Washington. Greg and Ken will explore the creation of independent teacher education programs and their implications for public schools. Stay tuned in to NEPC for smart, engaging conversations about education policy. Find Documents: Press Release: nepc.info/node/8884 NEPC Publication: nepc.colorado.edu/publication/gregory-smith-alyssa-hadley-dunn The National Education Policy Center (NEPC), housed at the University of Colorado Boulder School of Education, produces and disseminates high-quality, peer-reviewed research to inform education policy discussions. Visit us at: http://nepc.colorado.edu HealthBI Achieves HITRUST CSF Certification "By achieving HITRUST CSF Certification, our organization has demonstrated its commitment to ensure information protection requirements are met," said Scott McFarland, president of HealthBI. HealthBI, a leading developer of health information technology platforms, value-based management care systems and contact centers announced today it has earned certified status for information security by the Health Information Trust (HITRUST) Alliance. With the HITRUST CSF Certified Status, HealthBI meets key health care regulations and requirements for protecting and securing sensitive private health care information. HITRUST CSF Certified Status indicates that HealthBI has met industry-defined requirements, is appropriately managing risk, and places it in an elite group of organizations worldwide that have earned this certification. By including federal and state regulations, standards and frameworks and incorporating a risk-based approach, the HITRUST CSF helps organizations implement prescriptive and scalable security controls. HealthBI processes health management information for more than 14 million patients in all 50 states from more than 60,000 sites. Health care providers are under great pressure to meet complex compliance requirements that include technical and process elements such as HIPAA, NIST, ISO and COBIT, said Scott McFarland, president of HealthBI. The HITRUST CSF is the gold standard that needs to be met and by achieving HITRUST CSF Certification, our organization has demonstrated its commitment to ensure information protection requirements are met. The HITRUST CSF has become the information protection framework for the health care industry and the CSF Assurance program is bringing a new level of effectiveness and efficiency to third-party assurance, said Ken Vander Wal, Chief Compliance Officer, HITRUST. The CSF Certification is now the benchmark that organizations require to safeguard PHI and are measured against with regards to information protection. HealthBI was created to deliver tools that enable health care providers and payers to automate care transition, decrease the occurrence of emergency re-admittance and improve patient engagement and overall health outcomes. The HealthBI navigation platform aggregates patient data from practices, hospitals, payers and community care teams, to create faster, more effective population health management across all settings and lines of business. To learn more, go to http://landing.healthbi.com. About HealthBI HealthBI, a company of Equality Health, is the most widely deployed solution for care navigation and virtual care team communities across the nation. Specializing in real-time health data integration, provider insight and affordable coordination of care for value based contracts. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, HealthBI is a HITRUST Certified Saas-based solution that was collaboratively developed by health plan leaders and clinical care coordinators to eliminate the inefficiencies of care management and to improve community-based care delivery. CareEmpower aligns payers and providers in real-time to cost-effectively distribute patient events and care plans directly to providers and community resources resulting in dramatic reductions in admissions, ED utilization, and large measurable increases PCP engagement Backroads Guest Enjoying a Small Ship Ocean Cruise Active Vacation Water-based adventure trips are incredibly dynamic and allow us to create itineraries that wouldnt be possible if traveling solely by land Backroads today announced that it is launching a brand-new small ship ocean cruise segment and reinventing water travel for active travelers. The company is pioneering a new kind of adventure water travel with brand-new small ship ocean journeys in far-flung locations for travelers looking to combine flexible top-rated active vacations with the luxury of living aboard state-of-the-art expedition vessels. Backroads intimate ocean cruises offer thoroughly planned active trips with unparalleled ship- and land-based support in Alaska, Antarctica, Japan, New Zealand, the Baltic Sea, Galapagos, Iceland and more totaling 51 departures on 14 itineraries. This new small ship ocean cruise segment will augment the companys ever-popular active river cruise offerings that continue to grow with multiple departures and itineraries along the Amazon, Danube, Douro, Mekong, Rhine and Seine Rivers. Backroads has been taking to the water with active river cruises since 2015 and has seen a steady rise in popularity and demand since launch. With nearly 40 years as a leader in active travel, Backroads is once again blazing new trails in combining their one-of-a-kind outdoor adventures with the flexibility, ease and comfort of deluxe small ocean ships that include onboard yoga, stretching and an overall focus on wellness. Fully supported by best-in-class Trip Leaders on land and at sea, Backroads guests can hike, bike and actively explore at their own pace by day, returning to elegant floating hotels for exceptional dining, seafaring camaraderie and overnight passages to exciting new ports, all with the convenience of unpacking just once. Our guests love our active river cruises and have been asking for additional water adventures and destinations since we first launched that segment, said Tom Hale, Founder and President of Backroads. Weve heard everyone loud and clear and are now taking cruising to the next level, and then some, with our new small ship ocean cruises. Water-based adventure trips are incredibly dynamic and allow us to create itineraries that wouldnt be possible if traveling solely by land. Were thrilled to bring our guests more chances to explore the world with some of the most beautiful and diverse experiences weve ever offered. BACKROADS NEW OCEAN CRUISE DEPATURES FOR 2019 TRAVEL Alaska Multi-Adventure Antarctica Multi-Adventure Baltic Sea Biking Galapagos Multi-Adventure Iceland Circumnavigation Multi-Adventure Iceland Circumnavigation Walking & Hiking Japan Walking & Hiking New Zealand Multi-Adventure Costa Rica & Panama Multi-Adventure Venice & Croatia Biking TOP-SELLING RIVER CRUISE TRIPS Danube Biking | Walking & Hiking | Biking Full Ship CelebrationPrague to Budapest Rhine BikingBasel to Amsterdam Seine BikingParis to Normandy Portugals Douro Valley Biking | Walking & HikingSalamanca to Porto and Lisbon NewPortugals Douro Biking or Walking & Hiking Full Ship Celebration PREMIERE HOTEL & RIVER CRUISE TRIPS Galapagos, Andes & the Amazon Walking Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & the Mekong Biking Vietnam, Cambodia & Halong Bay Walking & Hiking Backroads Trip Designers have selected the ideal ships for each unique destination, joining up with the best purveyors of luxury water travel. From classically trained chefs to open-air sun decks to stellar spas and amenities, the following ship operators share Backroads philosophy of quality in every detail from service to accommodations and meals: AmaWaterways (River Cruises) KleinTours (Ocean Cruises) Lindblad Expeditions (Ocean Cruises) Ponant (Ocean Cruises) UnCruise Adventures (Ocean Cruises) When the Backroads active river cruise segment first launched, trips sold out in record time. The company predicts that their new small ocean cruise segment will be similarly popular with guests and suggests booking early for best stateroom availability and destination choices. More information at: https://www.backroads.com/award-winning-tours/cruises ABOUT BACKROADS Backroads was founded in 1979 by Tom Hale and has been in business for more than 38 years. The company hosts thousands of guests each year, 75% of whom are repeat guests or referrals from past guests, in hundreds of locations across the globe. Backroads is a founding member of the Adventure Collection. For more information, please visit http://www.backroads.com or call 800-462-2848 daily, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Pacific time. New tests are developing to predict cancer based on body fluid The future looks promising for cancers including prostate cancer in being able to use this innovative and useful new medical technology A study published in the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons is showing that there is a greater than 90% probability of predicting prostate cancer before the disease shows any symptoms and medical diagnosis from metabolic profiling and a urine sample. Advances in medicine, such as metabolic profiling, are what keeps hope alive and well in predicting diseases such as prostate cancer, stated Dr. David Samadi. This study shows the more our researchers and scientists keep looking for ways to find the possibility of cancer at the earliest stage possible, the far greater advantage there is of getting it treated and taken care before it takes hold. Metabolic profiling is the measurement of low molecular weight metabolites and their intermediates showing dynamic responses to stimuli, found in both normal and diseased conditions. The measurement and interpretation of the endogenous metabolite profile which can come from a urine sample, can provide the chance to investigate changes induced by external stimuli. As far back as the late 1960s, the concept of metabolic profiling, which focused on readily available measured biomarkers in body fluids like urine, was pioneered by Arthur Robinson along with his colleagues at the University of California at San Diego, Stanford University, and the Linus Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine, explained Dr. Samadi. These researchers found patterns that existed for many conditions including multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and Huntingtons disease. Unfortunately, due to limited progress of technology at that time and a lack of longitudinal samples, research was stalled. Since that time, the Oregon Institute of Science and Medicine has developed a urine sample bank with cryogenically preserved specimens from 5,000 volunteers, who periodically send urine samples and an update of their medical history. If there are enough subjects who develop a condition of interest, these samples can be analyzed. Information from individual patients serial samples can be used to monitor their health and assess the effect of interventions on the probability of developing a disease. Dr. Samadi went on to explain, Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy helps to analyze the samples by simultaneously quantifying over 800 urinary molecular components of human metabolic origin. Using this technique, researchers can examine profiles for aging, sex, prostate cancer along with also breast cancer and heart disease. The ability to analyze profiles for aging and sex were found not to be of much use as the researchers were looking at chronological age instead of physiological age, which had a higher impact on metabolism. What is very exciting is that for both breast and prostate cancer, the researchers identified a 94% and 97% probability, respectively, that patterns predictive of these diseases have been identified, exclaimed Dr. Samadi. It was even better news for heart disease as there is a 99% chance of identification of a profile predictive of a cardiac event. Eventually, in the future, the researchers hope to develop an affordable $5 test that can measure common metabolic products. These measurements and profiles are predicted to have the ability to have a strong potential for preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic medicine. Right now, the future looks promising for cancer including prostate cancer in being able to use this innovative and useful new medical technology, said Dr. Samadi. This will make the challenge of my job as a prostate cancer surgeon and urologic oncologist more predictable for my patients in knowing where they stand in regards to having prostate cancer or not and I look forward to having this type of technology commonplace in medicine. Patients newly diagnosed with prostate cancer can contact world renowned prostate cancer surgeon and urologic oncologist, Dr. David Samadi, for a free phone consultation and to learn more about prostate cancer risk, call 212-365-5000. LiveScale, the first omnicast live platform, today announced the update of their enterprise SaaS offer, now integrating the support of SRT (Secure Reliable Transport) and HEVC with Haivision encoders for high-quality live streaming to multiple platforms. SRT, a technology that Haivision open sourced earlier this year, is the alternative to RTMP, enabling far greater bandwidth utilization and security on contribution links. HEVC, or H.265, is the latest compression technology to increase picture quality and bandwidth efficiency, and combining HEVC with SRT is revolutionizing streaming contribution workflows. With HEVC and SRT support within the LiveScale platform, broadcasters, live event producers and enterprises can now efficiently and concurrently stream up to 4K and 360 degree VR content to web portals, mobile apps, and directly to social media sites including Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, from a single contribution feed. The platforms simplicity allows users to fully provision their streaming workflows within two minutes. Contribution efficiency has always been a major pain point for live content creators. SRT addresses this challenge with a future-proof open-source solution, allowing our customers to acquire, engage and monetize their audience anywhere, in the most effective way., said Virgile Ollivier, co-founder and CEO of LiveScale. Our validation tests with Haivisions encoders have proven to deliver the incredible video quality that our customers are looking for with up to 80% more bandwidth efficiency. Haivisions award-winning Makito X encoders transport secure, low latency, HD video over any network at extremely low bitrates, making them ideal for live, interactive and bandwidth constrained applications such as remote interviews, production reviews, news gathering and return feeds. Haivisions KB encoders support HEVC and up to 4K resolution, making them ideal for live event streaming to global internet audiences, offering optimized bandwidth usage without sacrificing a high-quality viewing experience. Both Haivision encoders are now supported with LiveScales platform. We are thrilled that LiveScale has joined the SRT Alliance and have further adopted Haivision encoders for streaming, said Sylvio Jelovcich, Vice President of Global Alliances at Haivision. The LiveScale platform is a great example of how to simplify live video delivery by allowing users to stream once with the highest quality and deliver across many portals to maximize reach. Book a Demo at NAB Show New York | October 18-19 Booth N752 About Haivision Haivision, a private company founded in 2004, provides media management and video streaming solutions that help the worlds leading organizations communicate, collaborate and educate. Haivision is recognized as one of the most influential companies in video by Streaming Media and one of the fastest growing companies by Deloittes Technology Fast 500. Haivision is headquartered in Montreal and Chicago, with regional offices located throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and South America. To learn more, visit http://www.haivision.com. About LiveScale LiveScale is the first omnicast live platform, allowing content creators to reach their fragmented audience, with optimized video quality on any outlet and improved ROI on live content distribution. With a unique cloud-designed approach, LiveScale deploys dedicated end-to-end live video workflow within 2 minutes, without any technical requirement. From a single live video contribution, LiveScale offers live video publishing and delivery, up to 4K and 360VR, to any social media, web, mobile and broadcast destination, with analytics data on top. Thanks to its real-time analytics engine, content creators can now measure their audience engagement and content effectiveness. To learn more, visit http://www.livescale.tv Media contacts LiveScale Virgile Ollivier +33.616.304.324 virgile(at)livescale(dot)tv Haivision Jennifer Gazin +1.514.334.5445 ext.8309 jgazin(at)haivision(dot)com I am certain that Scheipes insight as a naval officer will prove to be a powerful asset for strengthening the TargetSolutions brand. He understands our mission - he understands what it means to serve and shares our vision to help save lives. - Jeff Gordon, CEO with Vector Solutions Vector Solutions, a leader in eLearning and performance support, is excited to announce Marc Scheipe has been selected to lead its public sector business unit and oversee the TargetSolutions brand. Scheipe, who most recently served as president for Sage Software NA, will focus on strengthening and expanding TargetSolutions' industry-leading training management applications for public entities. With Scheipe at the helm, TargetSolutions is poised to continue its exceptional growth and increase its service offerings to meet the needs of all public-sector agencies. As a veteran, I am passionate about the mission to help save lives here at Vector Solutions, and I know the importance of the tools and training we provide to help achieve this. I am excited to share my expertise and passion to help the TargetSolutions tools reach the people who need it most, said Scheipe, who holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and is a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. In his new role, Scheipe is responsible for building on the strong foundation of TargetSolutions core public safety business, as well as expanding into new markets and developing partnerships with government agencies seeking to streamline and maximize training and performance with innovative technology. Scheipe has held senior leadership roles in software, payments and financial services while consistently increasing revenue, implementing new business strategies and executing complex integrations. Scheipe, an Atlanta resident, is a natural fit at TargetSolutions because of his previous military and business experience. TargetSolutions serves more than 200,000 emergency responders and Scheipe's background as a TOPGUN graduate, experienced Lieutenant Commander, and FA-18 strike-fighter pilot, means he's perfect for the job of serving those who work in the public sector. I am certain that Scheipes insight as a naval officer, along with his professional expertise, will prove to be a powerful combination and asset for strengthening the TargetSolutions brand, said Jeff Gordon, CEO with Vector Solutions. He understands our business and our mission - he understands what it means to serve. He sees our vision and knows how to get us there. About TargetSolutions TargetSolutions, a Vector Solutions brand, delivers award-winning, real-time training and record-keeping solutions to the fire services, emergency medical services, risk pools, cities and municipalities, law enforcement and public works industries. The company provides engaging, accredited online training courses, cutting-edge software applications, and dynamic performance management solutions to help make organizations safer, more capable, and more compliant. For more information, visit http://www.targetsolutions.com. Follow us on Twitter @TargetSolutions and on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/TargetSolutions. About Vector Solutions Vector Solutions, a leader in eLearning and performance support, provides award-winning SaaS solutions for the architecture, engineering, construction (AEC), industrial, facilities management, public safety, IT and education industries. Its brands, RedVector, TargetSolutions, and SafeSchools, deliver continuing education (CE), training, technology and performance management solutions using the latest innovations in learning and technology to create safer, more capable, more compliant organizations. Its extensive online and mobile learning library exceeds more than 5,000 courses written by 200 subject matter experts and reaches over 5 million professionals worldwide. The company was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Tampa, Florida. For more information, visit http://www.vector-solutions.com. Follow us on twitter @VectorPerform and on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/VectorPerformance. Q-Tran, Inc., a Connecticut-based lighting Manufacturer, welcomes Lizzie Solms as Director of Specification and OEM Lighting Sales. Solms joins the company to further develop a growing portfolio of specification agencies throughout the country while working with the companys sales and marketing teams to strategize new markets. Solms will also help create an OEM Illumination market for Q-Trans lighting division. Lizzie comes to Q-Tran with a wealth of experience in the industry, having spent the last five years developing a sales strategy for 0 (zero) Energy Lighting, a company she helped found in 2009. Under her guidance, the company was able to achieve a 200% annual top-line revenue increase. Lizzie expresses her excitement by stating, "I am thrilled to be joining such an amazing company where innovation and quality are part of the fabric of the organization. Q-Tran has experienced rapid growth since the introduction of Linear LEDs in 2013. We are at a pivotal point in our companys history where we can really start strategizing a more competitive sales and marketing approach. With help from Lizzie, Q-Tran will be able to realize these goals in the very near future, explains Gean Tremaine, COO of Q-Tran. Q-Tran, Inc. was founded in 1993 in response to an industry need for transformers specifically designed for low voltage lighting. The company has grown to sell over 300 varieties of Transformers and LED Power Supply Centers. In 2013, Q-Tran introduced Linear LED Lighting and Extrusions, quickly becoming one of the most trusted names in the industry. Q-Tran continues to be an industry leader by applying the same high standards, innovative design and dedication to produce only the highest-quality products. Q-Tran proudly designs and manufactures lighting solutions in Milford, Connecticut. To learn more about Q-Trans product offerings, visit http://www.q-tran.com Tillamook Country Smoker, a rapidly growing Oregon-based meat snacks company that has been manufacturing and distributing high quality jerky and meat sticks since 1975, will be offering its complete range of jerky during the upcoming NACS Show in Chicago at booth #1224. Dedicated to providing high-quality, all natural, protein-packed and 100% hardwood smoked meats to consumers, Tillamook Country Smoker will also be debuting its new packaging. The new package features a vibrant new graphic design and highlights the various premium quality elements of Tillamook Country Smokers products. Our products are made using the highest possible standards for sourcing and manufacturing, and our new packaging and consumer messaging will tell that story for us, said Tillamook Country Smoker CEO, Shane Chambers. Tillamook Country Smoker offers several delicious beef jerky flavors including Old Fashioned, Honey Glazed, Chipotle, Spicy Sweet, Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper, and Teriyaki, all of which will be displayed and sampled at the show. The jerky category has experienced tremendous growth as consumers look for healthy protein snacking options that fit their busy lifestyles. Tillamook Country Smoker is growing at a double digit rate and is positioned very well to continue to capitalize on the trend, said Chambers. Our consumers tell us that they love our naturally wood-smoked products. The NACS Show will take place October 17-20, 2017 at the McCormick Place located at 2301 South King Drive, Chicago, Illinois. Tillamook Country Smoker products are available at leading convenience, specialty, and grocery stores nationwide. For more information on the show, please visit http://www.nacsonline.com. For more information on Tillamook Country Smoker, please visit http://www.tcsjerky.com About Tillamook Country Smoker: Tillamook Country Smoker has been providing high-quality, all-natural, protein-rich, 100% hardwood-smoked beef jerky, turkey jerky, steak cuts, meat sticks and silver dollars since 1975. Remaining true to its roots, Tillamook Country Smokers premium-cut meat snacks are made without added hormones or MSG and are curated with a unique hardwood smoking process. To learn more about Tillamook Country Smoker, please visit http://www.tcsjerky.com or find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Tillamook Country Smoker is a portfolio company of Insignia Capital Group. About Insignia Capital Group Insignia Capital Group is a San Francisco Bay Area private equity firm focused on lower middle-market companies. Insignia partners with company founders and management teams to help drive growth and achieve true business potential. The firms principals have significant experience building businesses across a range of industries including consumer, business services, and healthcare. In addition to Tillamook Country Smoker, Insignias portfolio companies also include Truco Enterprises, a provider of tortilla chips, salsa and queso under the On The Border brand, and Century Snacks, a provider of branded and private label snack nuts, trail mixes and similar snacks. For more information, please visit http://www.insigniacap.com. The American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) is proud to announce this years Signature Award and Leadership Award recipients. The leaders will receive their awards at the AMIA 2017 Annual Symposium, taking place Nov. 4 8, in Washington, D.C. The symposium draws 2,500 attendees for an event featuring 600+ papers, panels and posters. The AMIA Signature Awards program provides an opportunity for AMIA members at different stages of their careers to be recognized for significant contributions to the field of informatics. It is an honor to recognize these remarkable leaders in informatics, said AMIA Board Chair and Medical Director of IT Services at the University of Washingtons UW Medicine, Thomas Payne, MD, FACP, FACMI. We celebrate their exceptional accomplishments and commitment to AMIAs mission." AMIA Signature Awards Donald A.B. Lindberg Award for Innovation in Informatics Wendy W. Chapman, PhD Professor, University of Utah Don Eugene Detmer Award for Health Policy Contribution in Informatics Susan Hull, MSN, RN-BC, NEA-BC Chief Nursing Informatics Officer, Cincinnati Hospital Medical Center Virginia K. Saba Informatics Award Nicholas Hardiker, RN, PhD Professor of Nursing Informatics and Associate Head (Research & Innovation), The University of Salford School of Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work & Social Sciences New Investigator Award Marina Sirota, PhD Assistant Professor, University of California San Francisco AMIA Leadership Awards Betsy L. Humphreys, MLS For sustained contributions to the field of biomedical and health informatics and in celebration of her retirement from the National Library of Medicine. Frank Naeymi-Rad, PhD, MS, MBA For championing industry engagement and commitment to the health informatics profession. Howard D. Silverman, MD, MS For sustained contributions to the field of health informatics and medical education, and a founding member of AMIAs Community of Clinical Informatics Program Directors. The awards will be presented on Saturday, Nov. 4, at the AMIA Leadership Dinner. Tickets to the dinner are available. Proceeds support the AMIA Leadership and Education Award Donation (LEAD) Fund. ### AMIA, the leading professional association for informatics professionals, is the center of action for 5,400 informatics professionals from more than 65 countries. As the voice of the nations top biomedical and health informatics professionals, AMIA and its members play a leading role in assessing the effect of health innovations on health policy, and advancing the field of informatics. AMIA actively supports five domains in informatics: translational bioinformatics, clinical research informatics, clinical informatics, consumer health informatics, and public health informatics. Umbra has spent over a decade supplying real-time, 60 frames-per-second, 3D optimization to the worlds most demanding AAA game publishers." We now bring that expertise to AEC and other industries wrestling with how to interact, revise and view incredibly complex 3D models." Umbra the leader in automated 3D optimization technology for designers and engineers -- today announced Composit, the companys latest and most advanced solution that makes it possible to display any 3D content in real-time on any piece of hardware. Composit is the only fully-automated cloud-based 3D solution on the market that applies Umbras patented algorithms to intelligently optimize complex models that, until now, could not be loaded on mobile mixed reality devices. Umbra has spent over a decade supplying real-time, 60 frames-per-second, 3D optimization to the worlds most demanding AAA game publishers, said Otso Makinen, CEO, Umbra. We now bring that expertise to AEC and other industries wrestling with how to interact, revise and view incredibly complex 3D models. Composit works alongside popular authoring tools such as Autodesk Revit. Once installed, Composit makes it possible for users to Umbrafy -- automatically optimize complex 3D models with a single click, projects from their Revit 3D View instantly. The Umbrafied content is then pushed to Umbras powerful cloud, where it can be shared to virtually any internet-connected device with a web browser and a growing number of VR and AR platforms including Microsoft Hololens, Apple ARKit, and Samsung Gear VR. This makes it possible for large, geographically dispersed teams of varying technical expertise to review renderings in real time, greatly accelerating the design review process. Composit is addressing multiple pain points in today's complex AEC design workflow. said Shawn Adamek, Umbras Chief Marketing Officer. Upstream, our ability to optimize models in minutes enables architects and designers to accelerate revision cycles with colleagues, clients and other stakeholders. Downstream, our platform-agnostic viewer allows anyone, anywhere, on any device to view and interact with 3D models. The collaboration enabled by Composit will change the way architects and engineers design and communicate their vision, long before projects are built. The ability to instantly immerse key contributors and decision-makers in the projects design gives an incredible sense of scale, depth and spatial awareness that simply cannot be matched by traditional renders, animations or even physical scale models. From cars and buildings to consumer products and even individual component parts, Composit makes it easy to resolve design conflicts and reach consensus on time, and on budget. Pricing and Availability Composit is available now, pricing starting at $239 per month. Volume discounts are available for customers interested in seat license bundles. To find more information and download a free 14-day trial of Composit visit: http://www.umbra3d.com/industries/architecture/ About Umbra Umbra empowers 3D graphics designers and engineers to create, optimize, share and view their designs in real time on virtually any device. As the established gaming industry standard in graphics optimization for more than a decade, Umbra is now redefining rapid visualization for all industry ecosystems utilizing complex 3D models. Established in Helsinki, Finland, Umbra has offices in the US, EMEA and APAC, supplying technology solutions to top-tier customers worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.umbra3d.com. ### Robert Kildow Island of Hawai`i, Hawai` Prominent Hawai`i-based real estate agent Robert Kildow continues his years-long collaboration with the invitation-only Haute Residence real estate network. As a Haute Residence partner, Kildow exclusively represents the luxury real estate market on the Island of Hawai`i. Serving as the principal broker for Hualalai Realty, Kildow oversees product development, pricing, implementation of marketing plans, and coordination of public relation efforts for all Hualalai real estate. He also manages the residential sales at Hualalai Resort, an 865-acre gated community on the Kona coast of the Island of Hawai`i. The luxury development includes the award-winning Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. Kildow has led a team that has sold more than $2 billion in real estate sales. He, himself, has been recognized three times by Hawaii Business Magazine as the number one residential broker for the state of Hawai`i in 2010, 2012, and 2015. In 2013, he was inducted into the Billionaires Club by Whos Who in Luxury Real Estate for selling over $1 billion in real estate during the preceding nine years. About Haute Residence: Designed as a partnership-driven luxury real estate portal, Haute Residence connects its affluent readers with top real estate professionals, while offering the latest in real estate news, showcasing the worlds most extraordinary residences on the market and sharing expert advice from its knowledgeable and experienced real estate partners. The invitation-only luxury real estate network, which partners with just one agent in every market, unites a distinguished collective of leading real estate agents and brokers and highlights the most extravagant properties in leading markets around the globe for affluent buyers, sellers, and real estate enthusiasts. HauteResidence.com has grown to be the number one news source for million-dollar listings, high-end residential developments, celebrity real estate, and more. Access all of this information and more by visiting: http://www.hauteresidence.com Best Los Angeles Web Design Firms Web design firms Big Drop Inc, Blue Fountain Media, and EIGHT25MEDIA have received the Best Web Design Firm awards from 10 Best Design for October 2017. Big Drop Inc is a leading web design firm that prides itself on robust designs that will have a meaningful impact for years to come. They provide a custom framework that supports multi-layer web programming in universally-accepted programming languages, including the latest version of HTML supported by Mozilla FireFox and Google Chrome. At the same time, Big Drop Inc's products are backward-compatible with older web technologies that may not be supported by browsers that do not typically support older syntax such as Microsoft's Internet Explorer and Apple's Safari browser. Top web design firm Blue Fountain Media is an industry leader in the Internet marketing world, specializing in providing full-service digital marketing products and consulting. Working with companies from across the spectrum, Blue Fountain Media also offers services in branding and design, strategy, and mobile apps. They have offices both in Los Angeles and New York City. EIGHT25MEDIA is renowned for their role in recruiting some of the best minds in Silicon Valley, including the brightest programmers and web designers available. That is one of the reasons the company emerged on the list of best LA website development businesses. Because of their location in the San Francisco Bay area, EIGHT25MEDIA is able to tap into the vast talent pool in the growing field of information technology. Opening their doors in 2010, they have especially focused on delivering content management systems for website owners. EIGHT25MEDIA has deep experience in working with the CMS platforms that now dominate the web, including those that are fully compatible with Apple and Android devices. The products released by EIGHT25MEDIA include support for such brands as Drupal, Magento, and WordPress, to name a few. 10 Best Design is pleased to honor all three companies with this new monthly award. Each of these web design firms in their own way truly represent the best LA website development business. For more information, please visit http://www.10bestdesign.com. Van Dyk Health Care Bob has been a true visionary in our profession for several decades. Long term care and post-acute care are stronger in New Jersey because of his commitment to excellence. Robert Van Dyk, the president and chief executive officer of Van Dyk Health Care, was presented the 2017 Jan Thayer Pioneer Award during a formal ceremony at the 68th Annual AHCA/NCAL Convention & Expo in Las Vegas. With almost 35 years of experience in the profession, Van Dyk is credited with bringing assisted living issues to the forefront and uniting long term care providers. The National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) recognizes individuals who have moved the senior care profession forward, positively affecting the lives of those served and those who serve. Recipients of the Jan Thayer Pioneer Award must demonstrate strong leadership, dedication and major contributions to the profession. "Bob has been a true visionary in our profession for several decades. Long term care and post-acute care are stronger in New Jersey because of his commitment to excellence" said Jonathan Dolan, President & CEO of Health Care Association of NJ. "He continues to build outstanding teams of care professionals who take pride in serving New Jersey families as members of the Van Dyk family. Bob has set the bar for every care provider, and we're grateful for his ongoing service to this profession." Van Dyk Health Care, grounded in six consecutive decades of family ownership, has thrived under Van Dyks 23-year tenure. The company offers a full continuum of care services for New Jersey families with an assisted living community, two nursing and rehabilitation facilities, a home care company, and a soon-to-open memory day care center. "Ive known Bob for 28 years and have watched him make an immeasurable contribution to our industry" said Donna Fry, President of Valley Home Care. "Bob has always remained focused on quality care and service. He is always there to support our seniors with integrity, dignity, and respect." Van Dyks commitment to assisted living extends beyond his signature Park Place community. He expanded his impact on the profession by helping New Jersey public officials create the first regulations for assisted living providers. He also founded Assisted Living Training Associates, which has helped train and certify over 1,600 assisted living administrators. At the national level, Van Dyk served for a record tenure of over 20 years. He helped transform the American Health Care Associations (AHCA) Residential Health Care Committee into the National Center for Assisted Living. Van Dyk was elected as NCALs second Chairman, succeeding Jan Thayer, the Pioneer Awards namesake. He later served as AHCAs Chairman. Van Dyk earned his Bachelors in Business Management from Fairleigh Dickinson University and his Masters in Health Care Administration from George Washington University. He is a licensed nursing home administrator, residential care operator, and assisted living administrator. About Van Dyk Health Care Van Dyk Health Care, founded in 1953, has built an unsurpassed reputation for excellence in senior care, spanning three generations of family caring for family. Under the leadership of CEO Robert Van Dyk for over 20 years and an award-winning staff, Van Dyk Health Care remains one of the top care providers in the nation, dedicated to its mission of finding solutions to better health and quality of life throughout New Jersey. Van Dyk Health Care offers the full continuum of care services with two nursing and post-acute care facilities in Ridgewood and Montclair, an assisted living community in Hawthorne, a home care company and a soon-to-open memory day care center. The company works closely with partnering hospitals and physicians to ensure its short-stay patients return home quickly and safely. Learn more at vandykhealthcare.com. #FIFA World Cup Numbers confirmed for S. Korean players South Korea released squad numbers for their players at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar on Tuesday, with captain Son Heung-min getting his usual No. 7. The Korea Football A... #BTS Seller of BTS member Jungkook's lost hat referred to prosecution Police on Tuesday referred to the prosecution a former foreign ministry employee accused of attempting to sell BTS member Jungkook's lost hat online, officials said. The suspec... Breast cancer is a deadly and debilitating disease that has struck many families in our community, but by coming together and working toward change we can all make a positive difference in the future The Gary Daniels Agency, a family managed insurance and financial preparation firm serving families and businesses in northeast Texas, is embarking on a three month long charity initiative that promises to raise local awareness of breast cancer and attract donations that will be used to fund cancer research. Breast cancer remains one of the deadliest forms of cancer for women and men alike, but modern treatments and therapies are beginning to prove effective when the cancer is detected early. The charity event will focus on educating Dallas area residents on breast cancer detection by encouraging self-exams, regular mammograms, and other forms of preventative techniques. Breast cancer is a deadly and debilitating disease that has struck many families in our community, but by coming together and working toward change we can all make a positive difference in the future, says Gary Daniels, principal agent and owner of the Gary Daniels Agency. An information sharing campaign that promotes cancer detection techniques has already been launched in the Dallas region as Daniels and his team connect with local families, civic leaders, and medical professionals over email and social media. The firm will also be producing a full length article discussing breast cancer realities in the newest edition of the Gary Daniels Agency online magazine Our Hometown: http://www.garydanielsagency.com/Our-Hometown-Magazine_39. Daniels and his team have led more than half a dozen charitable events over the last year. As proud Texas affiliates of the Agents of Change charity assistance initiative, the Gary Daniels team plans to host new events for charitable groups and nonprofits throughout the region on a quarterly basis. Additional information on the Breast Cancer Awareness charity drive presently taking place in the Dallas area is available from the Gary Daniels Agency, and all interested readers are encouraged to join the event: http://www.garydanielsagency.com/Joining-the-Fight-Against-Breast-Cancer_18_community_cause. For details on charity events hosted by the Gary Daniels Agency over the last year, readers are directed to the firms Community Causes listing: http://www.garydanielsagency.com/community-cause. About the Gary Daniels Agency As a Personal Finance Representative in Dallas, agency owner Gary Daniels knows many local families. His knowledge and understanding of the people in his community ensures that clients of Gary Daniels Agency are provided with an outstanding level of service. Gary and his team look forward to helping families protect the things that are most important - family, home, car and more. Gary Daniels Agency also offers clients a preparation strategy for achieving their financial goals. To contact an expert at Gary Daniels Agency, visit http://www.garydanielsagency.com/ or call (214) 299-5799. Brad Denton By being able to practice in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, I will be able to represent clients who were unsatisfied with a lower court ruling and want to pursue additional legal action... Business attorney Brad Denton, a partner of Denton Peterson PC in Mesa, Arizona, has been admitted to practice in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, the firm announced today. Denton will now be able to argue appeals cases in the regional court. Were delighted by this professional advancement because it means that one of our most senior attorneys will be able to serve more of our clients at various stages throughout the legal process, said Sterling Peterson, another partner at the business law firm. Denton has been a practicing attorney for more than 20 years. He spends much of his time helping businesses protect their legal interests, such as deciding the right business structure, handling employee complaints, and defending against lawsuits from clients or other businesses. He helps with both litigation and commercial matters. By being able to practice in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, I will be able to represent clients who were unsatisfied with a lower court ruling and want to pursue additional legal action, Denton said. The lower courts dont always get it right, and I can now help clients appeal some of those decisions with the goal of getting the desired outcome. In addition to representing businesses, Denton and other attorneys at the firm also represent individuals dealing with franchise issues, contract disputes, or real estate matters. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals includes the states of Arizona, Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Oregon. It also includes the central, eastern, northern, and southern districts of California and the eastern and western districts of Washington. Finally, it includes the U.S. territories of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Appeals from all of these places are heard in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals was established in 1891 with the courts of appeals for the other nine judicial circuits. Additional judgeships were authorized for the 9th Circuit in 1891 and 1895, and then again in later years. The last judgeship was authorized for the 9th Circuit in 2009. Not all of the current states and territories in the 9th Circuit were a part of it at its creation. Hawaii was not added until 1900, and at the time, it was a territory. Alaska was also added that year, when it was also a territory. Arizona was added to the 9th Circuit in 1912. There are four meeting places for the 9th Circuit: San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle. When the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals was established, the only meeting place was San Francisco. The other three meeting places were established in 1948. Many distinguished judges have served on the 9th Circuit. There are currently more than 40 judges serving on the circuit. Denton brings his considerable experience representing business and individual clients at all stages of the legal process to his appointment on the court of appeals. My goal is to help my clients protect their legal rights and minimize their losses when defending against lawsuits or litigating contract disputes, Denton said. I ensure that my clients understand all the legal issues at play and all the options so that we can create the right legal strategy together for the optimal chances of success. Denton Peterson PC represents business clients at all stages of their business histories, including those that are just starting out and need legal advice about the best entity to maximize profits and minimize liability, those that have been in business for a while and are managing employee or contract disputes, and those that are well-established and are now looking to offer franchises in their business. The firm writes and reviews contracts and other business documents, represents clients in arbitration and mediation, and litigates in court. Denton Peterson PC has an office in Mesa and one in Scottsdale. Businesses are encouraged to call to speak to an experienced attorney about their legal concerns. Those who were dissatisfied with an earlier ruling may also wish to consult with Denton about the possibility of an appeal in the 9th Circuit. If necessary, Denton can represent the case all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court. Denton Peterson, P.C. 1930 N. Arboleda, Suite 200 Mesa, AZ 85213 Office: 480-325-9900 Email: service(at)dentonpeterson.com Website: http://arizonabusinesslawyeraz.com Gunderson, Denton & Peterson, P.C. 1930 North Arboleda, Suite 201 Mesa, AZ 85213 Phone: (480) 655-7440 Fax: (480) 655-7099 Email: contact(at)gundersondenton.com Website: http://gundersondenton.com Collage Group Our ground-breaking new framework pushes people to think about culture in a new way, going beyond census labels and ethnicity. Collage Group, a leading insights and strategy company, will kick off their executive roundtable series on October 18 in Los Angeles. Co-hosted by Google, the day-long session will bring together top brands to discuss cutting-edge approaches to multicultural and youth marketing. Over 40 executives will join from corporations including Hulu, Nestle, The Walt Disney Company, Wells Fargo, and more. The unique format is designed to balance proprietary content from Collages expert team with peer discussion. The day will start with a release of keystone findings around Cultural Fluency, the ability to understand and navigate the intersection of cultural identity and cultural values in a society. This will be followed by a framework for activation and accompanying case studies. Lagging market results indicate that the Total Market approach is not working. Cultural insights and nuances are often overlooked for the sake of more efficient, generic insights that might appeal to the entire market. Leading consumer brands are in need of a fresh framework to navigate the increasingly complex culture in America. Weve been researching how culture defines American consumers for years, says David Wellisch, CEO of Collage Group. Our ground-breaking new framework pushes people to think about culture in a new way, going beyond census labels and ethnicity. By factoring in cultural identities and values, it opens up tremendous growth opportunities for brands. Google is excited to host another Collage Group executive roundtable. Empowered multicultural consumers are relying on digital platforms more than ever to meet their personal needs whether in language or by cultural affinity; therefore, this forum is vital to fuel important discussions around the future of multicultural marketing," says Sarah Carberry, Head of Multicultural Sales at Google. The second session in the roundtable series will be co-hosted by A+E Networks in New York City on November 17. ABOUT COLLAGE GROUP: Founded in 2009, the company focuses on empowering organizations to better serve and engage the fastest growing and most influential consumers through insights, market intelligence and strategy. They currently support over 100 leading companies through proprietary syndicated research, actionable category level insights, market intelligence tools, and best practices. The product portfolio includes insights and strategy networksLatinum, focusing on multicultural, and genYZ, focusing on millennials and gen-Z. Collage also offers a full suite of custom research and consulting services. More information can be found at collagegroup.com. Neighbors helping neighbors is what its all about, and coming together as a community to help people facing unusually difficult life challenges is something which should inspire us all. We are proud to support Daltons Greater Works and help those members of our community find a little hope. Bryant Agency, a full-service insurance and financial planning provider serving families and businesses from offices in Dalton, GA, has announced the latest beneficiary of their recently launched community involvement program. The newest campaign focuses on Daltons Greater Works Community Outreach, a regional nonprofit organization which serves the numerous homeless men, women, and children of the community. Donations may now be made at https://www.crowdrise.com/providing-hope-for-the-homeless3. Homelessness is democratic, affecting people from all walks of life, educational levels, races, ages and social background. Both the population and the need for a variety of services is growing. From humble beginnings, over the last 20 years, Daltons Greater Works (DGW) has evolved into a rotating volunteer staff which provides meals, clean clothing and showers to anyone in need. But thats not all. DGW also offers day care and assistance with personal development, counseling, job location and improving living conditions. Simply stated, DGW believes there is a distinction between homeless and hopeless and their ultimate mission is to build bridges of hope by getting those they serve off the streets and living lives of purpose and meaning. DGW is a perfect fit for our new community involvement program, said Nick Bryant, owner of Bryant Agency. After all, neighbors helping neighbors is what its all about, and coming together as a community to help people facing unusually difficult life challenges is something which should inspire us all. We are proud to support Daltons Greater Works and help those members of our community find a little hope. Readers who would like to join in supporting this worthy cause need not even reach into their own pockets to do so. The Bryant Agencys innovative program has pledged to donate $10 to DGW for each and every referral they receive for an insurance quote, with no purchase necessary. To recommend family and friends for a helpful, no-obligation quotation, simply visit http://bryantagencies.com/causes/providing-hope-homeless/. Meanwhile, the agencys caring team is hard at work promoting the initiative through a dynamic social media and email outreach campaign. They have also featured the cause in their print and electronic magazine, Our Hometown. Helping customers and friends to live well and thrive, the publication is delivered to thousands of households in Dalton and surrounding communities every month. Current and past issues may be enjoyed at http://bryantagencies.com/magazines/. Bryant Agency has demonstrated devotion to their community by the recent establishment of a master charity program, which is part of the nationally celebrated Agents of Change movement. We are fully committed to helping those in need in our community, and will be choosing a new group, family or individual to target for fundraising campaigns every several months, promised Bryant. More information on the agencys local Community Cause initiatives may be found at http://bryantagencies.com/community/. About Bryant Agency A full-service insurance and financial services provider serving families and businesses from offices in Dalton, agency owner Nick Bryant knows many local families. This knowledge and understanding of the people of north Georgia help him to provide customers with an outstanding level of service. Bryant and his team of dedicated professionals work diligently to help families protect the things which are most important to them their families, homes, businesses, cars and more. They also prepare strategies to help clients achieve long-term financial goals. More information about the agency is available at http://bryantagencies.com/. To speak with a caring expert, please call 706-278-4558. The Ultimate Guide to Employee Discount Programs by Access Perks explains everything you'd ever want to know about this popular and valuable employee benefit With a range of programs available, its important for employers to understand their options and what to expect. This guide will help companies find the program that best suits their needs. Past News Releases RSS Access Perks Promotes Discount... Access Perks Shares the Value of... Access Perks, the nations largest employee discount network, has published a free guide covering everything benefits professionals need to know about employee discount programs. The Ultimate Guide to Employee Discount Programs is free to download at http://bit.ly/edp_ebook. The 40-page eBook is an in-depth look at employee discount programs, including why theyre becoming so popular as an employee perk, how they work, if its possible to build your own, how to evaluate vendors, and much more. It also contains dozens of links to additional resources and data points plus a special infographic about promoting these programs. Employee discount programs may not be as complicated as other benefits, but they have clear best practices to follow and pitfalls to avoid, says Andrew Graft, vice president of corporate marketing at Access Development, Access Perks parent company. With a range of programs available, its important for employers to understand their options and what to expect. This guide will help companies find the program that best suits their needs. The Ultimate Guide to Employee Discount Programs contains over 30 years of knowledge Access Development and Access Perks have acquired while serving the employee benefits sector. As the guide emphasizes, employee discount programs are gaining popularity as a benefit for many employers due to a growing need for financial wellness amidst a period of growing labor shortage and declining take-home pay for the typical American worker. When executed properly, they can help employees save hundreds of dollars and directly impact retention and recruiting. Access Perks is built on the Access Development discount network, featuring over 350,000 merchant locations offering deals of up to 50% off. The Access Perks employee discount programs also include over 200,000 merchants accepting show your phone mobile coupons. Each program is private-labeled for employers to maximize goodwill and engagement from employees. To learn more about Access Perks, please visit https://accessperks.com. ### About Access Perks Access Perks is an employee discount program designed to help employees save thousands at local restaurants and retailers. Built off the strength of the Access Development discount network, Access Perks features over 350,000 merchant locations offering deals of up to 50% off, as well as another 200,000 mobile coupon merchants. For more information on Access Perks or to request a demo, please visit https://accessperks.com. We are truly excited to be helping local families move into new homes where they can create new memories that will last a lifetime. Mlynarek Insurance Agencies rounds out a year of donating time and energy to the betterment of the Detroit area by announcing the latest beneficiary of their thriving community enrichment program. The new campaign fundraises for Humble Design, a grassroots nonprofit organization which helps area families ready to transition out of homeless and abuse shelters into stable, low-income housing. By providing furnishings and design services, Humble Design turns four stark, bare walls into clean, dignified, welcoming homes for families who are ready for a fresh beginning. Readers who would like to help neighbors in need create happy new memories may donate at https://www.crowdrise.com/making-a-house-into-a-home-for-local-families. Humble Designs core belief is that by coming home to a clean and friendly home, family members will be better able to focus on education, employment and building a better home life. Many of Humble Designs families have fled abusive situations with nothing but the clothes on their backs. By cleaning and repurposing gently used household furnishings, toys, housewares, etc., Humble Design is able to create total home makeovers on a very cost-efficient basis. They currently serve up to three families every week and have fully furnished more than 700 homes in Detroit over the last seven years. We are truly excited to be helping local families move into new homes where they can create new memories that will last a lifetime, said Kevin Mlynarek, owner of Mlynark Insurance Agencies. Our Community Program was designed to make a positive impact, and in this season of giving, helping to provide a brighter future for families who have been through so much is a wonderful way to do that. The caring team at Mlynark Insurance Agencies will be volunteering with Humble Design in December and are on a mission this fall to help furnish one special familys home with their fundraiser. Toward that end, the agency itself has pledged to donate $10 to Humble Design for each and every referral they receive for an insurance quote for the duration of the campaign. Compassionate members of the community wishing to pitch in and have the agency make a donation in their name may recommend friends and family for no-obligation quotations at http://mlynarekinsuranceagencies.com/causes/october-2017/. In the meantime, Mlynarek Insurance has mobilized to vigorously promote the initiative through a variety of channels, including shining a spotlight on the initiative for Humble Design in this months issue of their community magazine. Our Hometown is a dynamic print and digital publication which is delivered to thousands of households in and around Lake Orion and the greater Detroit area every month. Current and past issues may be enjoyed by visiting http://mlynarekinsuranceagencies.com/magazines/. The agencys innovative community enrichment program, Agents of Change, chooses a new local organization, family or individual every few months to receive support. To stay in the loop on whats happening in the community by keeping tabs on past and future worthy causes, readers are encouraged to bookmark http://mlynarekinsuranceagencies.com/community/. Those wishing to submit ideas for future campaigns may do so at http://mlynarekinsuranceagencies.com/submit-causes/. About Mlynarek Insurance Agencies A full-service, award-winning, family owned and operated insurance and financial services firm serving Michigans families and businesses from offices in Lake Orion, Kevin Mlynarek and his team of caring professionals have one simple mission: to provide the finest insurance and financial products in the industry while delivering consistently superior service. Their focus is on helping families to protect the things which are most important to them (their families, homes, businesses, cars and more) while developing strategies to achieve long-term financial goals. Their dedicated agents may be reached by calling 248-393-1300. More information on the agency may be found at http://mlynarekinsuranceagencies.com/. Jerry Lewis dedicated his life to raise billions of dollars in global awareness for this disease. I am proud to help carry on his legacy in doing the little bit that I can," said Dawn Alba. The team at Engineered Tax Services has been greatly involved in philanthropy throughout the South Florida community over the years. CEO, Julio Gonzalez, has even allowed employees to use work hours to participate. Thats why team members jumped at the chance to donate to the Muscular Dystrophy Associations 2017 premier fundraising program: MDA Lock-Up. In-House General Counsel, Dawn Alba, was nominated to be arrested and put in to Ruth Chris jail at City Place in West Palm Beach, Florida. She wont be released until she raises her bail money for MDA. The team behind her could not be more supportive. Engineered Tax Services employees and friends are sure to help her break out of jail, which will in turn help families break free from muscular dystrophy and related diseases. Jerry Lewis dedicated his life to raise billions of dollars in global awareness for this disease. I am proud to help carry on his legacy in doing the little bit that I can, said Dawn Alba. The final day to donate to this cause and help Dawn break free is October 19th. She will be held captive at Ruth Chris Steak House from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Every dollar she raises through the MDA Lock-Up helps families in the South Florida community and beyond. You can help Dawn reach her goal here. About MDA Lock-Up The MDA Lock-Up is the primary fundraising event for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The Lock-Ups occur all over the United States at various times throughout the year. Business and community leaders, like Dawn Alba, agree to be put behind bars and utilize friends, coworkers, family, and the community to get donations that will go towards their bail. Each jailbird in the Lock-Up has two weeks to raise donations. On the final day, the participants will gather at a reception to enjoy the Lock-Up finale and network with other jailbirds about the good they are doing for MDA and for their community. All donations from the Lock-Up assist the Association in providing a nationwide network of medical clinics, summer camps for individuals and families affected by neuromuscular diseases, and lifesaving research. Steve Tanijo and Kripa Upadhyay, managing partners of Orbit Law, PLLC, are each celebrating their tenth anniversaries as attorneys. The law partners graduated together from Seattle University School of Law in 2007 and merged their prior independent practices in 2015. All of the firms team members are either first-generation immigrants or children of immigrants. The firm, based in Seattle, WA, is able to provide services and assistance in English, Spanish, Nepali, Hindi and Urdu. Since teaming up, they have helped employers recruit and retain the best and brightest; companies have not only been able to secure visas for their employees, but more importantly, have found a partner to help grow their business whilst helping them maintain compliance with ever changing rules and regulations around immigration and employment of foreign nationals. Local economies in various states have benefitted by establishment of businesses owned by foreign investors which then provide employment to locals in those communities, and most importantly, in the last 10 years, both partners have been successful in creating and growing a firm that is dedicated to not just helping Immigrants achieve the American Dream, but also advocating for and helping the larger community understand the benefits of immigration at all levels of society. Today, their firm focuses on Immigration Law, Business Law and Employment Law, and both partners have received several recognitions for their work in immigration-related matters. The firm now has three attorneys and three paralegals, in addition to two of-counsel attorneys. Both partners are also frequent speakers in Continuing Legal Education Seminars. Tanijo mainly speaks on removal/deportation matters, and Upadhyay has spoken at local, regional and national Immigration Law conferences on a variety of employment and investor-based Immigration matters. Our personal lived experiences and history as first-generation immigrants or children of immigrants guides the ethos of the firm, said Upadhyay, who was named a Rising Star for Immigration Law from 2014-2017, an honor given to only 2% of attorneys licensed to practice in any state, and was awarded the Washington State Bar Associations Community Service Award in 2011 in recognition of her outstanding and exemplary service in helping immigrants and refugees in Washington State. As pro-bono service is a cornerstone of the firm, in the past ten years, Kripa and Steve have helped change the lives of numerous people. One such case involved a client from Uruguay who had been backpacking through North America and doing volunteer work along the way. He was heading to Canada on the last day of his U.S. visa but ended up in a U.S. detention center instead due to overstaying his visa by just 30 minutes. I agreed to take the case on pro-bono and was eventually able to get the client released, concluded Tanijo, who was born at the U.S. Base in Okinawa, Japan, to a U.S. citizen father (third-generation Japanese-Hawaiian), who was then serving active duty, and a Taiwanese mother. This case garnered national and international attention, including coverage in the LA Times. The partners are ecstatic to be celebrating ten years of service to the communities in which they live and work, and look forward to continued growth in the coming years. About Steve Tanijo and Kripa Upadhyay, Orbit Law, PLLC Steve Tanijo practices family-based immigration, adjustment of status and asylum and representation in removal proceedings. Kripa Upadhyay represents corporations and individuals from around the world in employment/investor-based immigration. She also assists corporations and businesses in devise compliance strategies in order to remain compliant with all State and Federal regulations for employers. Practice areas of Orbit Law, PLLC now include comprehensive Immigration Law services for individuals, families, businesses and international investors, in addition to the newly added Business Law and Employment Law practice areas. For more information, please call (206) 623-3352, or visit http://www.orbitlawpllc.com. The law office is located at 509 Olive Way, Suite 611, Seattle, WA 98101. For media inquiries, please call the NALA at 805.650.6121, ext. 361. Ray Barrett has recommitted as chairman of SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories. Providing fresh, clean breath all day long is a true innovation, and consumers nationwide have noticed. SmartMouth is now the fastest growing mouthwash in the oral care segment. Ray Barrett, former chairman of Biomedical Systems, has again committed to the role of chairman of SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories and its premier line of oral rinses, toothpaste and mints that provide 24 hours of fresh, clean breath. Having recently sold St. Louis-based Biomedical Systems to Philadelphia-based technology firm ERT, Barrett, known as an entrepreneurs entrepreneur, will have even more time to devote to board related duties at SmartMouth, and brings valued leadership earned through success in the medical, healthcare and consumer products markets. Barrett developed Biomedical Systems into a global organization that minimizes the risk and uncertainty of clinical trials. Prior to that, he founded Landshire Food Systems, a manufacturer and distributor of packaged goods, which he sold to Southland Corporation, the parent company of 7-Eleven, in 1977. In my career Im always watching for innovation, Barrett says. With SmartMouth, what I find so compelling and innovative is the science behind it its truly different from other products on the market. There are many mouthwashes out there, but few address sulfur gas, which is the real cause of bad breath, and only SmartMouth has this patented zinc ion technology to eliminate and block sulfur gas for 24 hours. Providing fresh, clean breath all day long is a true innovation, and consumers nationwide have noticed. SmartMouth is now the fastest growing mouthwash in the oral care segment. The science that originally drew Barrett to the company is SmartMouths patented two-liquid formula. When mixed together, the solutions activate zinc ions that prevent germs in the mouth from producing volatile sulfur compounds, or VSCs, for 12 hours. VSCs, also known as sulfur gas, create the odor that is perceived as bad breath. Used in the morning and at night, SmartMouth blocks sulfur gas and provides fresh, clean breath for a full 24 hours. From Landshire to Biomedical Systems, Ray has a proven track record of success, says Andrew Burch, CEO of SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories. Whatever he touches turns to gold. Were excited that he believes in our products, and were very fortunate to have his mind in our business. The SmartMouth Oral Health brand features activated oral rinses in three formulas: Original, Dry Mouth and Clinical DDS, as well as toothpaste and dry mouth mints. Their products are available at Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Dierbergs, Schnucks, Albertsons and at most pharmacies and supercenters nationwide. About SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories manufactures and markets SmartMouth branded mouthwash, toothpaste and mints through national retailers and online. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, SmartMouth has been working to end bad breath forever since 1993. Stardog Union, leading provider of Enterprise Knowledge Graph technology, and Linkurious, an award-winning graph visualization and analysis software provider, today announced that their partnership will enable enterprise users to generate interactive and embeddable visualizations within their data. This collaboration brings powerful new capabilities to Stardog users, as they now have a new way to leverage, explore, and visualize their knowledge graph. When coupled with Stardog, Linkurious users can deploy the power of Stardogs Knowledge Graph platform; a platform complete with reasoning, virtual queries and machine learning. The combined platform is perfect for building solutions for risk and compliance, fraud detection, clinical trials and diagnostics. Adding Stardog to our stack gives us a powerful opportunity to meet the growing requirements for data unification and coherent graph-based model, said David Rapin, CTO, Linkurious. The need for reliable storage and retrieval graph-based management systems will continue to grow as the enterprise data landscape gets more complex. Stardog is a state-of-the-art enterprise knowledge graph platform which combines the advanced capabilities of reasoning, data integrity, SPARQL API, and full-text search engine in a lightweight, easy to install and scalable way. It is a great match for Linkurious Enterprise users who wish to search and explore their graph data without the need for advanced technical skills. Stardog built-in full-text search engine is especially convenient because it means that Linkurious search tool is always in synch with the latest changes in the data." Michael Grove, VP of Engineering, Stardog stated, Our ability to seamlessly bring together disparate data sources to build a more complement view of the data within an enterprise is the perfect complement to their world-class graph visualization technology. About Stardog Union Stardog is an enterprise knowledge graph platform that allows customers to query massive, disparate, heterogeneous data regardless of structure with simplicity of implementation. Stardogs enterprise customers include Fortune 500 companies in the finance, healthcare, life sciences, energy, media, and government industries. The company is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. Stardog is a privately held, venture-backed company. For more information, visit http://www.Stardog.com. Call: 202-408-8770 Email::inquiries(at)stardog(dot)com About Linkurious Linkurious is an award winning graph visualization startup founded in 2013. We created a software solution that helps government agencies and Fortune 500 companies identify and investigate insights hidden in complex connected data. Our on-premise graph visualization and analysis software is used for fraud detection, enterprise architecture management, medical research or IT management. Please visit linkurio.us for more information. The Phase II project, which forms part of the broader Mombasa port upgrade and modernisation programme, which is estimated to cost a staggering $900-million, is aimed at transforming the port into a modern facility capable of serving not only Kenya but also the rest of the East African region. KPA MD Catherine Mturi-Wairi says the authority has embarked on the tendering process for Phase II, which involves the construction of Berth 22. We have secured financing from the Japanese government and are now in the tendering process, with plans to break ground in January 2018, she said. When completed, Phase II will provide additional capacity of 450 000 TEU/y. An envisaged third phase, which will involve the construction of Berth 23, will increase capacity by a further 500 000 TEU/y. In total, once all phases are completed, the terminal will have a total capacity of 1.5-million twenty-foot-equivalent units (TEUs) a year. Also read: EUROPEAN INVESTMENT BANK EXTENDS LOAN TO KENYA TO BOLSTER ACTIVITIES AT MOMBASA PORT According to Mturi, the commissioning of 550 000-TEU/ Phase I which was completed in September last year has significantly enhanced the competitiveness of the port. Last year, the port handled 27.3-million tons of cargo, compared with 26.7-million tons in 2015. Further, container traffic increased from 1.08-million TEUs in 2015 to 1.09-million TEUs in 2016. Kenya hopes the construction of the terminals it would cement its place as the biggest port in East Africa in the wake of heightened competition from neighbouring Tanzania. Mombasa port has been striving to boost efficiency at the port to give it a competitive edge and recently announced it had secured two state-of-the art electric cranes to help boost efficiency at the Mombasa port and also help mitigate negative effects on the environment. In 2015, Tanzania was planning construction of a mega port in Bagamoyo that would be the largest in East and Central Africa. It however temporarily halted plans reportedly due to financial constraints. Mombasa port handles imports of fuel and consumer goods and exports of tea and coffee from landlocked neighbour countries such as Uganda and South Sudan. However, there are other equally good and efficient facilities in Ghana to offer somewhat quality healthcare delivery. Health care delivery now transcends beyond well being as it rubs in a sense of class to patrons. Ghana's capital city Accra can boast of most of the healthcare facilities taking care of the rich. There are popular perceptions that these hospitals or clinics are exclusive to the super-rich. However, the exclusivity does not necessarily make the hospitals super expensive though! Check them out! Trust Hospital The core vision for The Trust Hospital is to become a leading player in healthcare delivery service in Ghana and the Sub-region. It has good facilities to treat diseases. Nyaho Medical Centre The Nyaho Medical Centre provides world-class primary & specialist medical care in Accra.Although physically based in Ghana, Nyaho Medical Centre attracts clients from all over the world. Del hospital DEL International Hospital is an ultra-modern hospital providing varying in-patient and out-patient services to the Accra Metropolis in Greater Accra Region of Ghana Finney hospital Located a kilometre from the West Hills Shopping Mall is the plush Finney Hospital and Fertility Centre. It prides itself on high standards of patient care and friendly atmosphere. Medifem Hospital Provide cherished healthcare experience to improve the quality of life of our patients, their families and our community. Lister Hospital Gary Cohn, the director of the National Economic Council and President Donald Trump's top economic adviser, wants tax reform done this year. "It's really ambitious, and I think it's really possible, and I think it's really essential," Cohn said at an American Bankers Association meeting Monday. "I think we have a unique window in time right now, but unfortunately, we keep losing days to this window." He added: "The opportunity is now." While pressure is mounting on Congress to pass a tax package, the calendar shows dwindling opportunity before the calendar flips to 2018 with the House out for the week, 28 days remain on the 2017 legislative calendar in which both chambers are scheduled to be in Washington at the same time. Analysts say, however, that getting a plan to overhaul the US tax code through Congress this year simply isn't going to happen. "The idea of getting tax reform done this year is a farcical fantasy," Isaac Boltansky, an analyst at the research firm Compass Point, told Business Insider. "Lawmakers have neither the time nor the capacity to formulate and clear a tax reform package in 2017." The so-called Big Six tax negotiators and Trump unveiled a nine-page unified framework late last month, though they still must agree on finalized tax legislation, take that through committees in both the House and the Senate, pass bills through both chambers, and settle any differences between the two bills. Already some substantial policy cracks are opening up within the Republican Party on the push including on the possible elimination of the state and local tax deduction and on the amount the plan would add to the federal deficit. And since the party plans to use budget reconciliation to preempt a filibuster from Democrats in the Senate, the chamber first needs to pass a budget resolution and either get that through the House as is or work with the House to reconcile the differences between their separate budgets. Greg Valliere, the chief global strategist at Horizon Investments, said Republicans could spin passing a budget as progress toward tax reform. But he said that getting everything finished this year was unlikely. "They first have to agree on a budget House-Senate conference committee may not iron that out till early November," Valliere said in an email. "Obviously not enough time to enact a tax bill, but the spin will be that there's progress true and a bill can pass by the end of the winter probably true." Brian Gardner, the director of Washington research at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, said the timeline for the House might be shorter and that since it already passed its budget resolution has a larger margin for error with votes, it could make the deadline. "Assuming the budget resolution is finished by late October/early November, we expect the House will pass a tax bill by year-end 2017," Gardner said in a note to clients. "We expect the Senate will move slower and may not vote on a tax bill until early 2018. Under what we consider a best-case scenario, tax legislation could be finished in the first half (probably the second quarter) of 2018." But Congress is also running up against a slew of other deadlines that could complicate progress on tax reform. For one, it must address the expiration of federal funding in December to avoid a government shutdown. The restaurant's signature burgers and fries are supplemented by a unique menu that includes chicken tenders, "fried pies," a variety of original sauces, and sweet tea that is so beloved the company created a slushie version that's beginning to roll out in Alabama convenience stores. With an exclusively regional presence and a devoted cult following, Milo's just might be worthy of being considered the In-N-Out Burger of the South. Following is a transcript of the video: [We tried the "In-N-Out Burger" of Alabama] [Tuscaloosa, Alabama] [All 15 Milo's locations are in Alabama] [The chain is famous for its burgers, crinkle-cut fries, a variety of sauces, chicken tenders, "fried pies," and its beloved sweet tea] Milo's Employee: Thank you, sir! Graham Flanagan: Appreciate it! This is really important the sauces that you get. They've got five sauces, five original sauces. Too much sauce? I don't think so. I'm gonna start with the double cheeseburger. It's caked in this Milo's sauce, onions, pickles it's kind of got that vibe of like, a barbecue cheeseburger. So good! There's something about that sauce with the burger. Look at these fries. Beautiful. Crinkle-cut fries. Comparable to something you'd get at Shake Shack. Let's try that with the sauces. You know, they call me the "Big Dipper." Mix it up, baby! This my cousin Jon. Jon Tyler: Hello. Flanagan: What makes Milo's unique? Tyler: The chicken. Flanagan: Look at that! Man! You're on chicken cam! They also have what they call "fried pies." I'm just gonna take a bite out of it like a Pop-Tart. That is so delicious. Flaky and sweet. Today is my cheat day. Milo's is famous for its sweet tea. People buy it by the gallon. It's a phenomenon. Just to give you an idea of how popular Milo's sweet tea is, there's a gas station sort of on the outskirts of Tuscaloosa that sells a Milo's slushie, but they call it a "Freezey." And this is the only place you can get it. Wow. It's already got lemon in it. It tastes like the tea, but it's a slushie. This is like the greatest invention of all time! In an interview with Accra-based Starr FM, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GES Rev Jonathan Betteh said he did not see anything wrong with the act since it was a norm. If the act is something so bad, the Regional Director of the GES wouldnt have allowed that to happen. I do not see why we should seek permission from parents before taking them out to wave at dignitaries. There is no policy against children waving at visiting Presidents when they are in town. I honestly do not see anything wrong with the school children lined up to wave at a visiting President, I dont think it is a big deal. Meanwhile, the General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) David Ofori Acheampong also supported the position of the GES but added that learning hours could be lost. I dont think there is anything wrong with the school children welcoming Presidents and dignitaries. But the teaching and learning periods will be lost and teachers will have to do more. The teachers may have to rush students through lessons they lost as a result of welcoming dignitaries. READ ALSO: 6 SHS with the strongest alliance groups Most Ghanaians on social media expressed their displeasure at how public school pupils were made to line up on the scorching sun along the streets of Accra to wave miniature flags at Presidents Akufo-Addo and Alassane Ouattara as they drove through the capital. A policy analyst with IMANI Ghana Selorm Brantie is of the view that the practice must be reconsidered and possibly modified to suit the current times. 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! The image has gone viral on social media with the caption, "Mum and dads little junkie". It shows the little boy looking directly into the camera, ready to sniff a white, powdery substance suspected to be cocaine. Whoever uploaded the image probably did so to create fun, but social media users did not find the photograph funny at all, and quickly demanded that the child should be taken into child care. The matter has got to the notice of authorities, and fearing any possible consequences, the family, from the small village of Sindel in eastern Bulgarias Varna Province, had to assure everyone including social media users it was just a joke. The boys mother, Nadezhda Nuri told local media that the substance was not cocaine, but instead was simply flour. She claims that the image was taken as a joke but then uploaded onto social media by her 13-year-old daughter. Mrs. Nuri said: "My mother first saw the [picture of the] children and called me. I couldnt have done such a thing, I dont even know how to write. "My daughter must have taken the photo and uploaded it online. I can't do it because I can't even read or write, never mind use a computer." Her daughter, who uploaded the photo, says the family joke around with often taking photos like the controversial in question. She said: "I was only joking, I got the idea from Facebook. I have never seen real drugs. I once saw a woman on Facebook making lines with flour and then snorting it." The Daily Nation newspaper reports that Anthony Kiai also known as Highflyer, ostensibly forwarded the message unintentionally. He later asked members of the group to ignore it after realising his mistake. According to the Newspaper, the WhatsApp Group admin, Bernard Chege said he asked the MP to say sorry for the naughty language. Instead, the lawmakers personal assistant apologised, the newspaper added. The message, in the Gikuyu language, explained in detail how to give a woman an utterly fulfilling intimate time, Daily Nation reported. READ ALSO: Deputy Minister sacked for masturbating in the office However, some people have defended the MP, including one who said: "Is sex sin!!??" Whats even more amazing is that, customers stand the chance of winning GHS50 vouchers which can be used to shop on Jumia.com.gh if they visit their Facebook page and accept the event invite. Customer Service Week according to CSweek.com, is an international celebration of the importance of customer service and of the people who serve and support customers on a daily basis. It became a nationally recognized event after the U.S. Congress declared it in 1992; hence its full celebration in every first week in October. It was an exciting time as the M.D for Jumia Ghana Mr. Ore Odusanya, congratulated the award winners, Mr Emmanuel Lartey for being the Most Promising Intern, Miss Veronica Akofa Dokli, the Extra Mile Junkie and Mr. Isaac Afenu for being the Values Superstar. This years Customer Service Week started from 2nd to 6th October with Jumia Ghana seizing the opportunity to celebrate its gallant men and women who strive daily to deliver the best of customer experience to its noble clientele. As such, the entire customer service team at Jumia Ghana, through a well monitored voting process nominated distinguished members of the team into carefully selected award categories. These categories included; The Most Promising Intern, The Extra Mile Junkie and The Values Superstar. After free and fair balloting, it was said that Mr Emmanuel Lartey demonstrated his passion for excellence in every task assigned to him. Helping his fellow interns to become more effective, makes him stand out as the most outstanding new addition to the Jumia team. READ ALSO: BoG warns against doing business with unlicensed Oboanipa Ventures The female winner, Veronica Akofa Dokli was much admired as she was considered to be the type that looks at a problem and sees numerous solution. An optimist who sees the glass half full and not half empty. Her colleagues say she goes the extra mile to get her job done and performs tasks far beyond her job descriptions. Adding that, Miss Akofa has a superb sense of ownership and she sees to the complete resolution of all issues assigned to her. Mr. Isaac Afenu- the Values Superstar pulled through as the fastest rising star in the customer service business. He is tremendously appreciated by his immediate team as well as the larger Jumia team as being a team lead as he always rises to the occasion. The Panelists said, Mr. Afenu is a living embodiment of Jumias values, an epitome of teamwork and the best interpersonal relationship exhibited across ventures and departments. READ MORE: Troops peacekeeping allowance cut by government The army chief is said to have counselled the soldiers, at a durbar held last week at the Burma Hall in Accra, the need for them to remain professional in line with their strict military codes of discipline. Quoting a military source, the newspaper said he has given the delinquent soldiers a chance to repent and reorder their vocation as soldiers from a nation regarded as decent in peacekeeping and diplomacy. "We send you out on missions to carry the flag of Ghana High," Lit. General Akwa was quoted as saying "and not to engage in acts that lower the esprit de corps of the contingent. READ MORE: Soldier crashes to death in motorbike accident "For now, we will only hope that the craze dies with the close of the durbar, because the axe will fall sooner or later, without discrimination on any one caught in the unbecoming act," he added. The Information Minister, Mustapha Hamid said the president is committed to fighting corruption, therefore the preacher must provide evidence. As a senior citizen of our country, we want to urge him to go beyond talking generalities to giving us concrete examples that we can put our hands on and make an example for people to be deterred, stated Hamid in an interview with Accra-based Citi FM. He continued but if senior citizens will talk generally like that, for example quoting him beginning signs of corruption, that in our view is quite nebulous and not concrete. That only feeds into the so-called perceptions. We want to go beyond perceptions. Prof. Martey at a public lecture in Kumasi alleged that some government officials have started exhibiting signs of corruption. READ ALSO: Minister fires back at critics over UN selfie He also took a swipe at the size of the government saying a large government means large corruption. He, therefore, called for a constitutional reform to streamline the size of government in the country. When asked whether she was actually taking a selfie on Accra-based Joy FM, she responded that Yes, I did [take the selfie] to capture the moment. Shw, people saw me and they talked about it, she boasted, adding that I wanted to tell the world that our president was making a fantastic speech. She said there was nothing wrong with taking a selfie at that time. She argued that Members of Ghanas Parliament did same when the then President of US Barack Obama visited Ghana. You remember when Obama came to Parliament, everybody was taking pictures to capture the moment; to show the world that: We dey there some. This was a unique moment of an African leader, Nana Akufo-Addo, telling world leaders that there is a new Africa moving us out of poverty, moving us out of aid. READ ALSO: Koku Anyidoho to contest General Secretary position The selfie of Otiko Djaba and a Deputy Chief of Staff Samuel Abu Jinapor who were at the UN General Assembly meeting with the president went viral on social media. Many criticised them and described their conduct as inappropriate. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault," the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. There was no immediate information about casualties. A local official said two car bombs blew up near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing,"Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. That includes recently released Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. Late Monday a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least five Haqqani militants, officials have said. Businesses and financial networks on Tuesday began distancing themselves from the investor and markets commentator Marc Faber because of an investor letter in which he wrote "thank God white people populated America, and not the blacks." In the October edition of the "Gloom, Boom, and Doom" report, Faber addressed government regulation and what he considered to be impending issues facing the financial future of the US. He also said too many people were focused on concerns like the removal of Confederate statues. "But the very same people are now disturbed by statues of honourable people whose only crime was to defend what all societies had done for more than 5,000 years: keep a part of the population enslaved," Faber wrote in part. "And thank God white people populated America, and not the blacks. Otherwise, the US would look like Zimbabwe, which it might look like one day anyway, but at least America enjoyed 200 years in the economic and political sun under a white majority." Faber stood by the remarks in emails to Business Insider on Tuesday. "If stating some historical facts makes me a racist, then I suppose that I am a racist," Faber said in an email. "For years, Japanese were condemned because they denied the Nanking massacre." Numerous TV networks told Business Insider they were not planning to book Faber as a guest going forward. "We do not intend to book him in the future," a CNBC representative told Business Insider on Tuesday. "Faber does not appear on the network often and will not be on in the future," a representative for Fox Business Network said. A person familiar with the situation at Bloomberg TV gave a similar statement, noting that the network had not booked Faber since June 2016. "He hasn't appeared on Bloomberg TV since last summer, and there are no plans to book Mr. Faber," the person said. In an email to Business Insider, Faber said the networks' decision was inconsequential to him. "Not sure this is a huge loss," Faber said. Three companies where Faber served as a director also announced he would be stepping down. They were: Mark Fields, the former CEO of Ford who was ousted earlier this year after 28 years at the automaker, will join TPG Capital as a Senior Advisor, Business Insider has learned. TPG is a private-equity and alternative asset giant with over $73 billion in assets under management and was started as the Texas Pacific Group in 1992 byDavid BondermanJames Coulter,William S. Price III. TPG has grown substantially from its first offices in Northern California to locations worldwide. Over the decades, it has invested in numerous companies and participated in high-profile leveraged buyouts. Fields, 56, will focus on expanding the firm's industrials practice. Investments in this sector have included airlines and private-jet companies; going forward, TPG wants to invest in logistics, packaging, and mobility. TPG's first major investment was in bankrupt Continental Airlines in 1993, which according to firm resulted in a 1,000% return. At Ford, Fields followed Alan Mulally, who saw the automaker through the financial crisis without suffering the government bailouts and bankruptcies of General Motors and Chrysler. Fields had developed Ford's "Way Forward" strategic framework prior to Mulally's arrival in 2006, and later Fields took over Mulally's unifying "One Ford" vision when Mulally retired in 2014. Ford was steadily profitable under Fields, made several investments and acquisitions in the tech sector, and in 2016, the company returned to the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in France with its GT race car and won on the 50th anniversary of its legendary 1966 victory. But the carmaker's stock price lagged the markets during his tenure, and in May of 2016 Fields stepped down and was replaced by former Steelcase CEO Jim Hackett, who had been overseeing Ford's Smart Mobility division and had served on Ford's board. Hackett recently concluded a 100-day review of Ford's operations and is attempting to balance the company's legacy business against the disruption posed by the likes of Tesla and Uber. In the October edition of his report, which is available only in print and was seen by Business Insider, Faber focused on the economic policies of major governments. In a section of the report discussing "Free Markets and Capitalism Versus Socialism," Faber variously decried the tearing down of Confederate monuments as well as what he called the "liberal media" and New York City's "righteous socialist" mayor, Bill de Blasio. Faber said contemporary society focused too much on issues like the monuments rather than on issues such as the growing amount of outstanding debt and "unfunded government pension liabilities." The report then went into an aside regarding his thoughts on the Confederate monuments. From the report: "I don't want to enter into a serious discussion of the tearing down of monuments of historical personalities, but I cannot omit mentioning how the liberal hypocrites condemned the Taliban when they blew up the world's two largest standing Buddhas (one of them 165 feet high), situated at the foot of the Hindu Kush mountains of central Afghanistan, in 2001. But the very same people are now disturbed by statues of honourable people whose only crime was to defend what all societies had done for more than 5,000 years: keep a part of the population enslaved. And thank God white people populated America, and not the blacks. Otherwise, the US would look like Zimbabwe, which it might look like one day anyway, but at least America enjoyed 200 years in the economic and political sun under a white majority. I am not a racist, but the reality no matter how politically incorrect needs to be spelled out as well. (And let's not forget that the African tribal heads were more than happy to sell their own slaves to white, black, and Arab slave dealers.)" Faber, also known as "Dr. Doom," has been a provocative market commentator for some time, predicting that various possible economic calamities would cause large crashes in the stock market. Faber confirmed to Business Insider that the report was authentic. "I am naturally standing by this comment since this is an undisputable fact," Faber said in an email. In a follow-up email, Faber further defended the note: "If stating some historical facts makes me a racist, then I suppose that I am a racist. For years, Japanese were condemned because they denied the Nanking massacre." In addition to earnings that beat on both top and bottom line growth, the company on Monday said it added 4.45 million international subscribers, beating both Wall Street and in-house estimates. Based on these impressive numbers, Morgan Stanley has raised its price target for shares of Netflix to $235 from $225 11% above the stocks price of $200 Tuesday morning. "Following the strong 3Q17 results and 4Q17 guidance, primarily driven by Netflix adoption internationally, we raise our long-term international subscriber forecast and currently expect +15.75mm international streaming net adds in '18E (vs. prior +14.2M)," analyst Ben Swinburne said in a note Tuesday morning. This international growth, coupled with cable TV partnerships at home and its investment in original programming, will help Netflix strengthen its moat against encroaching competitors like Disney, which last month announced it would yank its content from Netflix and launch its own streaming service. "As it navigates a wary but likely still willing partnership with traditional, vertically integrated media companies, its position as a studio and the clear positive impact that its original programming is having on the business provide a nice hedge to strategic shifts by historical suppliers such as Disney." The news confirms Swinburnes thesis that Netflix has created a model it can replicate in international markets. He explained how this works in an interview with Markets Insider last week ahead of earnings: "History would tell you that given time, [Netflix] can ramp in almost any kind of market. It's probably intuitive that a market with a relatively developed economy like the US and the UK, and certainly English language with a strong technology adoption curve, strong broadband networks, would be a successful one for Netflix. "Then you look at a market like Brazil obviously an emerging market, with a much different income per capita, a much weaker broadband-network structure than what you typically see elsewhere, and the product has scaled to profitability and significant penetration rates that should give people confidence that they can scale in other kinds of markets." This disclosure was made by Nigeria's minister of finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun while addressing pressmen at the sideline of the annual meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington DC. In any tax system, the burden must be borne by anybody whose income allows to bear it, so those with higher income should by definition, bear a greater part of the burden, Adeosun said. The rich are obligated to pay, and this has nothing to do with whether taxing the rich will increase public revenue or not. The problem currently is that those at the lower level are the ones paying. If the man in the traffic control, with little income will pay at source, why should we not pursue the billionaire or the trillionaire to pay out of the income? We need to change the mindset in the country with regards to the tax system. Mrs Adeosun further explained that other West African countries are also considering implementing similar tax policy. The luxury tax planned by the federal government is being finalized now because it cuts across the ECOWAS. There is a legal process you must go through, including the Customs union to actually vary the specific taxes, she said. The proposed luxury tax is modelled after a sales tax or value-added tax (VAT) which are charged as a percentage of the value of some items. However, this tax would only apply to purchases over a certain amount and on some items such as cars, jewellery, and wine among others. Trump's comment came in response to a question during a Monday press briefing about why he had not yet addressed the deaths of four American soldiers in Niger, who were killed during an ambush two weeks ago. Trump did not explain the delay, and instead attempted to defend his decision to write letters to the families by claiming that his predecessors "didn't make calls" to the relatives of fallen soldiers. "If you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didn't make calls," Trump said during the 40-minute news conference with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. "A lot of them didn't make calls. I like to call when it's appropriate." Several of Obama's former top aides responded quickly on Twitter, slamming the president's comments and calling him a liar. "POTUS 43 & 44 and first ladies cared deeply, worked tirelessly for the serving, the fallen, and their families. Not politics. Sacred Trust," former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Martin Dempsey tweeted. Former Attorney General Eric Holder tweeted a photo of himself and Obama saluting alongside several US soldiers, and wrote, "Stop the damn lying - you're the President. I went to Dover AFB with 44 and saw him comfort the families of both the fallen military & DEA." Another longtime White House aide, Alyssa Mastromonaco, used more colorful language to express her outrage. "That's a f---ing lie. to say president obama (or past presidents) didn't call the family members of soldiers KIA - he's a deranged animal," she wrote. Ben Rhodes, Obama's former deputy national security adviser, brought up Trump's criticism of the parents a Muslim American soldier, Humayun Khan, who was killed in Iraq in 2004. "This is an outrageous and disrespectful lie even by Trump standards," Rhodes tweeted, adding, "Also, Obama never attacked a Gold Star family." Pete Souza, former White House photographer, posted an image on his popular Instagram account of Obama and first lady Michelle Obama consoling the parents of an Army sargeant awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in Afghanistan, where he was killed. The President and First Lad... @ petesouza Later in Monday's press briefing, another reporter followed up on Trump's comments, asking him to clarify his charge. Trump responded with a more equivocal statement, claiming he was repeating information provided to him by his "generals." "I don't know if he did. I was told he didn't often, and a lot of presidents don't. They write letters," Trump said. "President Obama, I think, probably did sometimes and maybe sometimes he didn't. That's what I was told. All I can do is ask my generals." White House press secretary Sarah Sanders responded to the criticism Monday evening, denying that Trump was making a judgment about his predecessors' treatment of the families of fallen soldiers. "When American heroes make the ultimate sacrifice, presidents pay their respects," Sanders said. "Sometimes they call, sometimes they send a letter, other times they have the opportunity to meet family members in person. This president, like his predecessors, has done each of these. Individuals claiming former presidents, such as their bosses, called each family of the fallen, are mistaken." Kellyanne Conway, Trump's top counselor, also denied that Trump attacked Obama, interpreting his comments as "saying that there are many different ways to reach out to these families." "Sometimes you call, sometimes you write, sometimes you actually meet them in person," she said. "And he doesn't always make [it] public." But on Tuesday, Trump suggested that Obama did not call John Kelly, the current White House chief of staff, after his son was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2010. Biden made the remark while at an event with Ohio Gov. John Kasich at the former vice president's alma mater, the University of Delaware. Biden and Kasich, a Republican, held a discussion on "bridging the political divide." Biden additionally expressed concern at the idea of top-level officials in the Trump administration quitting. "I don't want to see chief of staff quit, I don't want to see the secretary of state quit, I don't want to see the secretary of defense quit," he said. He also criticized President Donald Trump, saying he "doesn't understand governance." Both Biden and Kasich provided brutal assessments of the state of politics and government in the US today. Biden blasted Trump for his "bizarre conduct," claiming that a European prime minister went as far as to tell Biden that Trump was similar to former Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. At one point, Biden stood up and imitated Trump brushing aside the president of Montenegro at a NATO event in May. "He comes along and says he is breaking down all the norms," Biden said of Trump. "There are certain basic norms and he doesn't understand them, and the ones he understands he tries to break down." Biden also decried Trump's claims that the media is reporting "fake news" about him, at one point picking up a water bottle and saying Trump's claims were like if the former vice president said he was not holding a bottle of water. He added that members of the press are among the brightest people he has met in his career. Biden and Kasich called for politics to move toward a more center consensus instead of catering to both extremes. Kasich said the breakdown in US politics began long before Trump and is "because of base politics," with both Democrats and Republicans being unable to break from their far left and right flanks. Mueller interviewed Matt Tait, a former information-security specialist at Britain's Government Communications Headquarters who tweets as @pwnallthethings, several weeks ago, said a source familiar with the matter. The interview was part of a broader effort by Mueller to examine the relationship between the longtime GOP operative, Peter Smith, and the former national security adviser Michael Flynn and whether Flynn played any role in seeking out the stolen emails during the election. Smith killed himself in May after talking to The Wall Street Journal about his experience. The House Intelligence Committee has also interviewed Tait in its investigation into Russia's interference in the 2016 presidential election, CNN reported. Tait declined to comment. A spokesman for Mueller's office also declined to comment. Mueller interviewed Tait months after Tait published a first-person account of his interactions with Smith on the national-security blog Lawfare. In a piece titled "The Time I Got Recruited to Collude with the Russians," Tait recalled how Smith had approached him to help verify the authenticity of emails he said were given to him by dark-web hackers. "Smith implied that he was a well-connected Republican political operative," Tait wrote, adding that Smith had contacted him because he believed "that Clinton's private email server had been hacked in his view almost certainly both by the Russian government and likely by multiple other hackers too." Tait said he went along with Smith's request because he wanted to find out more about these hackers and whether they were pranksters or part of a larger Russian intelligence operation. He said he never found out. But he wrote that it was "immediately apparent that Smith was both well connected within the top echelons of the campaign and he seemed to know both Lt. Gen. Flynn and his son well." Tait said Smith also listed the top Trump advisers Kellyanne Conway, Steve Bannon, and Sam Clovis as part of a group he had formed to conduct opposition research on Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee. Tait's interaction with Smith went on for at least a few weeks, Tait wrote, and at one point Smith sent him a document detailing the company Smith and his colleagues had set up "as a vehicle to conduct" the opposition research. The company, KLS Research, had been set up as a limited-liability corporation in Delaware "to avoid campaign reporting," Tait wrote, adding that he didn't view the document as "merely a name-dropping exercise." "This document was about establishing a company to conduct opposition research on behalf of the campaign, but operating at a distance so as to avoid campaign reporting," Tait wrote. "Indeed, the document says as much in black and white," he continued. "The combination of Smith's deep knowledge of the inner workings of the campaign, this document naming him in the 'Trump campaign' group, and the multiple references to needing to avoid campaign reporting suggested to me that the group was formed with the blessing of the Trump campaign." Spicer was also asked about his own comments in the days that preceded Comey's dismissal, Politico reported, citing people familiar with the conversation. Mueller's team previously asked for White House documents connected to the May 3 briefing during which Spicer said "the president has confidence in the director," in response to questions about Comey. Reporters at the time were scrambling to get clarity about Trump's position on Comey after Trump said the day before that the FBI director had given Hillary Clinton a "free pass" in the investigation of her use of a private email server. Mueller's team wants to know whether Spicer knew of Trump's plan to fire Comey, which happened days later, on May 9. The investigators also sought information on Trump's Oval Office meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and the Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. No US journalists were allowed into that meeting, where Trump reportedly revealed classified information to Lavrov and Kislyak; information that, at the time, had not been shared with US allies. "My mother was assassinated because she stood between the rule of law and those who sought to violate it, like many strong journalists," Matthew Caruana Galizia wrote on his Facebook page, first reported by CNN. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed on Monday outside of Malta's capital, Valletta. Galizia had been leading the Panama Papers investigation into corruption in Malta, according to The Guardian. She was described by Politico as a "one-woman WikiLeaks" who was "shaping, shaking and stirring Europe" with her reports. Matthew Caruana Galizia also described finding his mother's remains after the explosion. "I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it," he wrote. "They stared at me," he continued. "'I'm sorry, there is nothing we can do', one of them said. I looked down and there were my mother's body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless. 'Who is in the car?', they asked me. 'My mother is in the car. She is dead. She is dead because of your incompetence.'" "This is what war looks like, and you need to know," he wrote. "We are a people at war against the state and organised crime, which have become indistinguishable." Daphne Caruana Galizia's blog sometimes got 400,000 readers a day more than the combined circulation of all of Malta's newspapers. She had recently linked Malta's prime minister, Joseph Muscat, and his wife, Michelle Muscat, to payments from the ruling family of Azerbaijan that were hidden in secret offshore bank accounts. "In March last year, Al Sahra FZCO a company incorporated in Dubai's free zone made a single payment transaction of $1.017 million to Egrant Inc, a company incorporated in Panama in 2013," Galizia wrote in April. The "daughter of Ilham Aliyev, ruler of Azerbaijan," was "the ultimate beneficial owner" of Al Sahra FZCO, Galizia added, and Michelle Muscat owns shares of Egrant Inc. Al Sahra FZCO is an oil and gas company, and Azerbaijan's national oil company recently became a shareholder in Malta's new power plant. Joseph Muscat said on Monday that Galizia's death resulted from a "barbaric attack" that was also an assault on freedom of expression. Galizia's son wrote: "While that clown of a Prime Minister was making statements to parliament about a journalist he spent over a decade demonising and harassing, one of the police sergeants who is supposed to be investigating her murder, Ramon Mifsud, posted on Facebook, 'Everyone gets what they deserve, cow dung! Feeling happy :).'" Matthew Caruana Galizia accused Muscat of leading a government in which impunity flourished. "First he filled his office with crooks, then he filled the police with crooks and imbeciles, then he filled the courts with crooks and incompetents," he wrote. "If the institutions were already working, there would be no assassination to investigate and my brothers and I would still have a mother. "Joseph Muscat, Keith Schembri, Chris Cardona, Konrad Mizzi, the Attorney General and the long list of police commissioners who took no action: you are complicit," he wrote. "You are responsible for this." Schembri is Muscat's chief of staff, and Cardona and Mizzi are members of parliament. "You can ask General Kelly. Did he get a call from Obama?" Trump told Fox News Radio host Brian Kilmeade during an interview, presumably referring to White House chief of staff John Kelly's son who was killed in Afghanistan in 2010. "I don't know what Obama's policy was," Trump told Kilmeade. "I write letters, and I also call." Trump first suggested during a press conference on Monday that Obama did not call Gold Star families when he was president. Trump was responding to a reporter who asked about the four American soldiers killed in a raid in Niger earlier this month. "President Obama and other presidents, most of them didn't make calls," Trump said, adding: "I like to call when it's appropriate." Numerous Obama administration officials condemned Trump's comments, insisting on social media that Obama had called and met with the families of fallen service members. Obama hosted a White House breakfast on Memorial Day in 2011 for Gold Star families. A source familiar with the breakfast told Business Insider that Kelly was seated at the table with first lady Michelle Obama. The White House press secretary, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, on Monday evening attempted to clarify Trump's comments, saying that "the president wasn't criticizing predecessors, but stating a fact." Some on the right who said Obama didn't have the stomach for war criticized him when he took pains to honor wounded or fallen service members and their families as president. "A president has to be psychologically prepared to send people into harm's way and to get a good night's sleep," Eliot Cohen, an official under President George W. Bush, told The New York Times in 2016. "And anything they do that might cripple them that way means they're not doing their job." Trump has faced criticism for his treatment of Gold Star families. In 2016, he repeatedly went after Khizr and Ghazala Khan, the parents of a soldier killed in Iraq. The withdrawal came a day after a joint investigation from The Washington Post and CBS' "60 Minutes" concluded that members of Congress including Marino, a Pennsylvania Republican alongside the pharmaceutical industry may have helped fuel the opioid crisis. On Monday, Sen. Joe Manchin, a West Virginia Democrat, sent Trump a letter asking him to withdraw his nomination of Marino to lead the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, a job commonly referred to as the nation's drug czar. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also joined the chorus of voices calling on Trump to reconsider. Trump said in a tweet Tuesday morning that Marino had withdrawn his name from consideration. "Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman!" Trump said. Rep.Tom Marino has informed... @ Donald J. Trump The "60 Minutes"-Washington Post investigation detailed how Marino introduced a bill in 2014 that made it harder for the Drug Enforcement Administration to enforce laws that would keep opioids from being diverted to people who may abuse them. A version of the bill became law in 2016. Mr Kenyatta seemingly is an avid entrepreneur, of course basing the judgement on the type of people he follows. He probably looks up to people like Aliko Dangote a Nigerian Billionaire and Mr Donald Kaberuka, the seventh President, African Development Bank Group that is between 2005 and 2015. With 2.56 million followers on Twitter, Kenyatta only follows 33 people, with only six (current) African presidents and one former president in West Africa. Some of the key African figures, of course presidents, on the continent include. Muhammadu Buhari On the list of his darlings is the leader of oil rich Nigeria in the west of Africa, with a population of over 180 people. Mr Kenyatta could be looking up to West Africas economic powerhouse, probably to clone it to Kenya. Paul Kagame Rwandas haven of peace and its successful ban on plastic bags may have wooed Mr Kenyatta to hit the follow button on Twitter of Mr Kagame. Mr Kagame previously commanded the rebel force that ended the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. He was recently reelected. Jacob Zuma South Africas development record and international recognition, and probably the Nelson Mandela factor may have prompted Mr Kenyatta to follow extravagantZuma.Mr Zuma is currently grappling with hundreds of charges, many related to corruption. John Pombe Magufuli The no nonsense Magufuli ticks in the list of presidents Mr Kenyatta closely monitors. He once threw a jab at Mr Kenyatta over his reluctance to fight graft, few months after he took office in Tanzania. Mr Magufuli, who earns meagre Ksh 413,000 a month, recently struck out a media outlet (MwanaHalisi) for allegedly criticizing him. You dont just throw words at Mr Pombe, do you? Yoweri Kaguta Museveni The matoke land commander drops in as Mr Kenyattas ally, such that he is among the 33. After a struggle in parliament to have his term limit extended, or even age limit struck out of the constitution, Mr Museveni still remains a darling to Mr Kenyatta. He follows him on Twitter. Alassane Dramane Ouattara Mr Alassane Dramane Ouattara is an Ivorian politician who has been President of Ivory Coast since 2010. Mr Kenyatta follows him back, a rare show for his millions of followers. John Dramani Mahama Having served as the president of Ghana five years, Mr Mahama could be having some nuggets of wisdom worth a retweet from Mr Kenyatta, or even being liked in equal measure. Mr Mahama served as President of Ghana from 24 July 2012 to 7 January 2017. Shortly after Apple announced the iPhone X, which uses facial recognition to unlock the phone in place of a fingerprint sensor, the Minnesota Democrat published an open letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook asking 10 questions about how the tech was implemented. Apple later revealed more information about the technology in a white paper published to its website. And on Monday, Franken's office sent Business Insider the undated response from Apple, signed by Cynthia Hogan, Apple's vice president for public policy. Apple's response to Franken largely restates information available on Apple's website about how Face ID works such as the fact that "faceprints" are not collected by Apple, that third-party developers cannot collect face data from developers, and how the technology works. However, it does go into a little bit of additional detail about how the software was built to work with a diverse group of people with different faces, genders, and skin tones: "The accessibility of the product to people of diverse races and ethnicities was very important to us. Face ID uses facial matching neural networks that we developed using over a billion images, including IR and depth images collected in studies conducted with the participants informed consent. We worked with participants from around the world to include a representative group of people accounting for gender, age, ethnicity, and other factors. We augmented the studies as needed to provide a high degree of accuracy for a diverse range of users. In addition, a neural network that is trained to spot and resist spoofing defends against attempts to unlock your phone with photos or masks." While Apple's published materials make the point that the company has anticipated many of the security and privacy issues surrounding the new technology, the next test for Face ID is when it gets out in public use and independent researchers try to crack it. "I plan to follow up with Apple to find out more about how it plans to protect the data of customers who decide to use the latest generation of iPhones facial recognition technology," Franken said in a statement. Heres Apples full response: Heres Frankens full statement: In perhaps the largest civic competition in modern North American history, 20 cities are vying to host the next headquarters of Amazon, dubbed HQ2. The company says that its new $5 billion campus will bring an estimated 50,000 jobs. has started visiting the The plan will expand a subsidy program, Grow NJ, and provide extensive economic incentives for companies (like Amazon) that launch "transformative projects." It would raise the cap on subsidies to $10,000 from $5,000 for every job Amazon creates. The incentives may reach $5 billion over the next decade, according to The Observer. The remaining tax breaks would come from a $1 billion city property-tax subsidy and a wage-tax waiver of $1 billion for Amazon employees over the next 20 years. Many finalist metros are attempting to lure Amazon through economic incentives in the form of tax credits. according to But so far, it looks like Maryland could be offering Amazon the most money. In early April, Maryland according to Newark's proposal includes a redevelopment of the city's riverfront area for the site of HQ2, a representative from the project's developer, Lotus Equity, confirmed to Business Insider late last year. The project will happen regardless of whether Amazon comes to Newark. Designed by four architecture firms, the neighborhood's masterplan calls for redeveloping 11.5 acres near downtown. The project includes 1,800 housing units, a 150,000-square-foot hotel, 100,000 square feet of retail space, a 30,000-square-foot food hall, 30,000 square feet of public space, up to 3,000 parking spaces, and up to 2 million square feet of commercial space. It also calls for demolishing the former New Jersey Bears stadium. There is no set timeline for when Lotus will break ground on the project, led by the Practice for Architecture and Urbanism. Michael Green Architecture and TEN Arquitectos are also involved, while Minno & Wasko Architects and Planners is the architect of record. Just 10 miles west of Manhattan, Newark has tried to launch a large-scale economic revival for decades. The city faces competition from other large cities like Washington, DC, Boston, and New York City for HQ2. It would be recalled that when Davido turned up at the office of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos state on Wednesday, October 11, 2017, he went there with two of his friends who were arrested on the orders of the commissioner. Agbaje Olaoye and Idris Busari, who are friends of Davido were arrested because they were allegedly said to be the ones who dropped off the corpse of Tagbo Umeike at the General Hospital. Davido's driver, Tunde Usutu, who was also arrested is also still in police custody. It is also reported that two new arrest have been made in connection with the death of Tagbo Umeike. However, Davido appears to be moving on as he announced on Monday, October 16, 2017, on his Twitter page that he is going back to music. "Thank you to everyone that prayed for me!! And to those that didn't maybe you forgot lol ... We thank God in all ... now let's get back to the music !! burn demmm!!!." While hinting directly to the media, Davido had a message for them saying "Any media house, blog or person that said false things about me or accused me of what I don't know .. I sincerely forgive you.. and God bless you!! We move on! LETS ALL BE BETTER!! THANK YOU LORD!! The beautiful model who took to her Instagram page upon arrival in Nigeria took pictures with security officials showing her down to earth side. She, however, has had several positive words for the country as she posted on her Instagram page on how warm Nigerians are. Media personality Dorcas Shola Fapson was one of those who did have fun with Bernice Burgos during her visit to Nigeria. The pair hosted a pool party in the capital city. She posted a picture where they were both dancing seductively and obviously having fun. ALSO READ: Bernice Burgos on October 16, 2017, posted a video on Instagram of herself having a nice time while clubbing with her host, D'banj. She even praised Nigerians while captioning the video "So much fun Nigeria .. thank you everyone who brought me out the love was so real y'all turn up out here," she wrote. It would be recalled that on April 2017, Bernice Burgos was spotted in the Bahamas with D'banj. A few months earlier it was rumoured that Bernice Burgos was having affair with the married rapper T.I. The Television Academy's announcement makes Rhimes the third black woman to be inducted into the Television Hall of Fame. Rhimes, who is popular for successful shows such as "Scandal," "Grey's Anatomy" and "How to Get Away with Murder" joins Oprah Winfrey and Diahann Carroll, who were inducted in 1993 and 2011, respectively. She will be inducted on November 15 at the Academys Saban Media Center, alongside the original cast of Saturday Night Live, John Wells and Joan Rivers. All of these individuals are innovators who have shaped television and left an indelible mark on the medium and our culture. We are honoured to welcome the latest group of distinguished individuals and look forward to showcasing their impacts for future generations,"Hayma Washington, the chairman and CEO of the Television Academy said. Rhimes recently signed a new deal with Netflix, which was announced on Sunday, August 13, 2017, ending a 12-year partnership with ABC Network. But Amaka has cleared the air by telling Vanguard that lawyer is lying to Nigerians and that he is even the one who has been trying to extort money from her even while in detention. While disowning the lawyer who has been lambasted by many judges in the past for meddling in cases that do not concern him. Amaka said she had never met with Ogungbeje before and wondered where he got the story that she was raped from. In an interview, Amaka said she was shocked when she read the story of her being sexually molested by the policemen who tried to use her in luring Evans out of hiding. She further explained that she was yet to speak with Evans since he was arrested on June 10, 2017, by operatives of the Inspector General of Police Special Intelligence Response Team [IRT], and that her attempts to visit him at the Kirikiri Maximum Prison where he is being held in custody has been unsuccessful. Hear her: I dont know where that lawyer got his story from and I have never met him. I have also not seen or spoken to Evans since he was arrested. I changed my phone number after he was arrested and I dont think he has the new phone number. After he was charged to court where he pleaded guilty, I tried to see him in prison and speak with him but I was not allowed to see him. The wardens did not tell me why I could not see him, but they took the food I took to him and promised that they will give it to him. I was troubled when I read the story of the lawyer accusing the policemen who arrested Evans, of sexually molesting me while they were trying to use me to lure Evans out of hiding. I am not a baby and I know when I am being sexually molested and abused. Nothing of such happened and I think I have to set the record straight. One week before Evans was arrested, some policemen accosted me on my way to the market and arrested me. Though they were hostile to me at the time they arrested me, they did not molest me sexually. I was completely in shock when they told me that Evans who I know and still call Chukwuebuka Mike, was a robber and kidnapper. I did not believe it. They later told me that they wanted me to lure him to my house because I told them that he was fond of my children and he normally spent time with us. The policemen were in my house and I was always in my room while and they were always in the sitting room. They provided all the money we used in cooking throughout their one week stay in my house. They were strategizing on how to arrest Evans. They also bought the fuel we used in powering the generator. On the day Evans was arrested, he called me around 5 am and the policemen brought the phone to me in my room and gave it to me. I answered the call and he told me not to drop the call. I thought he was standing by the gate and I did not put on any slippers. I walked out of the gate barefooted. When I opened the gate, I saw him parked across the road and I entered into his vehicle. The moment I saw him, I was panting and he asked what was happening. I told him that policemen were in my house for one week and they were looking for him. He zoomed off immediately and took me Iyana-Ipaja where he dropped me. He left with my phone. That was the last time I saw him. I was surprised when his lawyer said I was sexually abused by the policemen who arrested him. The YouTube channel of the two Nigerian men Williams and Kalvin Johnson has been pulled down by Google. The YouTube account no longer exists. The account was taken down after the article by The Daily Beast which exposed Williams and Kalvin Johnson as people allegedly hired by Russians to push out fake news about Hillary Clinton. With the role of Russia during the elections in focus, Google who owns YouTube had earlier said it was "taking a deeper look to investigate attempts to abuse our systems." Before The Daily Beast article was published, Facebook had shut down Williams and Kalvin Johnson's page. In The Daily Beast article, it was revealed that the two men hail from Owerri in Imo state. "On Facebook, both Williams and Kalvin claim their hometown is Owerri in Nigeria" states the article. In one of their YouTube videos, this was said about Hilary Clinton "the Clintons are serial killers who are going to rape the whole nation. Donald Trump cant be racist because hes a businessman." Their Facebook and Instagram accounts were suspended in August after it was discovered that they were both Russian propaganda accounts. Their videos essentially hyped up the candidacy of Donald Trump while spreading conspiracy theories about Hilary Clinton. "This is time for change. This is why I say that let our vote go for Trump. Because this man is a businessman. Hes not a politician. We can have a deal with him" Williams said in a video published in August 2016 on YouTube. The couple have actually known each other for 23 long years, and according to the actor, it has been an absolute delight to watch his sweetheart's "face and body metamorphose..." Sharing multiple collages, mostly unauthorised copies of his wife's old pictures on his Instagram timeline yesterday, October 16 2017, the actor says; "the route had turbulences, it was muddy, rosy, revolting, honeyed, distasteful, so on and so forth. Graciously we are still together. October 16th 2003, in retrospect, was one of the happiest days of my life; still is. Van and Adjoa have three kids together, a desire the actor says he and his wife have always had. undefined"23/14 years ago I found my wife simpatico in every respect. Time, space, maturity etc changed that but we have been uncompromising with the number of kids we wanted, three." Spokesman of the commission, Mr Wilson Uwujaren, said in a statement on Tuesday that the repeated alerts were necessitated by the persistence of the criminals. For the umpteenth time, the EFCC is constrained to alert the public on the activities of fraudsters who have been extorting prominent office holders using the name of its Acting Chairman, ." Their targets include sitting governors, ministers, and national chairmen of leading political parties." Members of these criminal gangs, from available information, have been writing invitation letters to some politically exposed persons on the pretext that such communication emanated from the office of the acting chairman of the EFCC." The commission has had cause to issue public disclaimer of such fraudulent letters, still the criminals are undeterred, Uwujaren said. He said there were also cases in the past where fraudsters sent messages demanding bribes from unsuspecting members of the public using cloned email and Facebook accounts of Magu. The situation, according to him, is compounded by the fact that not all recipients of such fraudulent invitations had the courage to approach the commission for clarification. The EFCC wishes to dissociate itself from the activities of these criminal gangs. It is important to state that Magu has not written or mandated any one to write any invitation letter to any state governor. He has no reason to do so as they belong to the category of officials that enjoy constitutional immunity from criminal prosecution while in office, he said. The EFCC Spokesman urged affected public officers to be wary and endeavour to verify the authenticity of any supposed letter of invitation they received from the acting chairman. Under no circumstance should members of the public offer gratification to anyone that claims to be an officer of the EFCC. Indeed such demand for gratification is enough indication that an impostor was up to mischief and should immediately be reported to the nearest office of the commission or police station. Magu has not mandated any one to approach anybody to collect bribes on his behalf. Any one claiming to represent his interest in any such unwholesome transaction should be apprehended, he said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this is the second time the commission is issuing this alert this year, the first being in August. At a media chat in Lagos, Adams promised to use the new position to make friends, resolve issues and fight for unity of Yoruba and the entire Nigeria. Adams made the pledge while confirming receipt of a letter from the Alafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, conferring him with the chieftaincy title. This Aare Onakakanfo position will moderate my radicalism but I will not compromise. I am ready to make friends and resolve any issue I have with every Yoruba person and Nigerian. I will, as soon as possible, meet with , I will meet as well as Fasehun and others. I am ready to fight for justice for Yoruba people and for Nigerians, Adams said. He gave the assurance that he would be good to Nigerians irrespective of their tribes. Adams, aged 47, said that Adeyemi found him worthy of the title because he was young and courageous to face any aggression. He also said that his charisma, determination, loyalty, focus and interest in the Yoruba race played a role in his choice for the title. He thanked God for making it possible for him to be chosen, and pledged that he would serve his motherland faithfully. He thanked the media for playing a vital role in his life. Adams has so far received 52 chieftaincy titles. Abaribe stood surety for Kanu who is currently standing trial for treasonable felony. Kanu who regained freedom on health grounds 'went missing' after the Nigerian Army allegedly raided his fathers house in Abia state. The IPOB leader also failed to appear in court for his trial which resumed today, October 17, 2017. Counsel to Abaribe, Ogechi Ogunna, initially informed the judge that the senator had filed a motion seeking to be discharged as a surety for the defendant. Abaribe told Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja that he had no information about Kanus whereabouts. The judge however presented Senator Abaribe with these three options. 1. That Senator Abaribe produces the defendant (Nnamdi Kanu) in court and then apply to be discharged as a surety. 2. That Abaribe should be ready to forfeit his N100m bail bond. 3. That the Senator be given more time to produce the defendant. But Ogunna stated that the Senator was not in the position to do any of the options presented before him. However the judge insisted that Abaribe must opt for one of the three options. With the judges insistence, Ogunna opted to be given time to produce him. The two other individuals who stood surety for Kanu were not represented in court. When news broke on Tuesday that some soldiers were injecting school students with poisonous substances that caused monkeypox, parents in Port Harcourt reportedly withdrew their children. In a statement released by Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Aminu Iliyasu, he condemned the "callous and unpatriotic rumours" deliberately spread by "enemies of state" to cause unrest with the public. Colonel Iliyasu said the army would not embark on any medical exercise without seeking the consent of the relevant parties, and emphasised that such an exercise would not take place in schools. He also said that while the army is planning free medical outreaches in certain host communities as part of its community relations activities during the ongoing Operation Crocodile Smile II, the public will be appropriately informed before any such medical exercises take place. The statement read, "The attention of Headquarters 6 Division Nigerian Army has been drawn to some rumours making the rounds that some Nigerian Army Personnel are going round schools in Rivers State dressed in Military Camouflage uniforms with the intention of forcefully vaccinating students with an unknown substance. "The callous and unpatriotic rumours spread by these enemies of State are, to say the least, despicable, deplorable and highly condemnable by all well meaning Nigerians as they are intended to cause pandemonium among the general public. "The authorities of 6 Division Nigerian Army wishes to inform the general public that while the Nigerian Army plans to undertake such gestures like free medical outreaches, sanitation exercises in host communities and distribution of educational materials as part of our community relations activities during the ongoing Operation CROCODILE SMILE II, these activities are yet to be conducted and will eventually be conducted with the consent of relevant authorities of designated communities and at venues and dates that will be duly communicated to the general public through future press releases and relevant posters. "For the purpose of emphasis, the Nigerian Army does not and will never carry out its medical outreaches or vaccination exercises for that matter in schools. "We can therefore categorically inform the public that the ongoing rumours about Nigerian Army Personnel going round schools in military camouflage to forcefully immunize school children are not true and should therefore be discountenanced with. "Additionally, members of the public are please requested to call 09072509436-8 to report any case of any impostor(s) that may be seen actually trying to commit such atrocities." The same rumours of forceful vaccinations also made the rounds in Ondo state on Tuesday with parents also withdrawing their children from school premises. The Nigerian Army commenced Operation Crocodile Smile II in Lagos, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Cross River on Friday, October 13. According to the army, the operation will curtailsecurity challenges such as illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, cultism, kidnapping, and militancy in the southwest and Niger Delta regions. According to statement released by the president's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, the president will also participate in an official working visit to Ankara, the capital city, on the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey. According to his statement, "In Ankara, the President will have a tete-a-tete with his Turkish counterpart while delegations from both countries will hold discussions in various fields including defence cooperation, security, educational and migration issues. "The Nigerian leader will also visit the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Turkey in Ankara where he will meet with the Speaker, Ismail Kahraman. "While in Istanbul, the Turkish commercial centre, President Buhari will use the occasion of the D-8 Summit to bolster warm and growing ties across a broad range of areas of cooperation with leaders of the D8-member countries, namely Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey. "The Summit with the theme, "Expanding Opportunities through Cooperation", will among other things, focus on cooperation in the areas of agriculture, trade, transport, energy and increased private sector participation among member-countries. "During the ninth Summit of the D-8, which will also mark the 20th anniversary of the organisation established to improve the developing countries' positions in the world economy, the President will highlight the significant show of confidence in Nigeria's business environment and economy. "He will also affirm Nigeria's resolve to work with D-8 member-countries on many key areas, including peace and security, economy and trade. "At the end of the Summit, the Heads of State and Government will adopt a Communique, also known as the 'Istanbul Declaration'." Adesina also disclosed that the president will be accompanied by cabinet ministers and top government officials including the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Hameed Ali. Ali's inclusion in the president's delegation is believed to be in connection with the recent spate of importations of firearms into the country that has originated from the shores of Turkey. Not comfortable with the plight of workers, President Buhari, on Tuesday, October 17, 2017, said the menace needed urgent attention as many state workers could barely survive. In an interaction with some state governors led by the chairman of the Nigerian governors forum (NGF), AbdulAziz Yari, the president wondered the effect of interventions by the federal government. How can anyone go to bed and sleep soundly when workers have not been paid their salaries for months, he said. I actually wonder how the workers feed their families, pay their rents and even pay school fees for their children. The president also told the governors at the meeting that the challenge in payment of salaries in states had taken a toll on the people. He said the federal government and state executives would need to work closely to better the situation of workers across the country. The minister stated this on Monday in Abuja at a meeting with the Foreign Affairs Minister, Geoffrey Onyeama, to resolve some of the issues militating against visa issuance. The meeting also had in attendance, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami and the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mohammed Babandede. It is embarrassing that one will want visa and will have unnecessary delay from the issuance countries. We as a country needs to take our stand; we should deal with any country the way they deal with us on visa issuance. They should not think that we need them more than they need us, he said. Babandede, at the end of the meeting also corroborated Minister of Interiors stand on the issue. He said: What we are saying is that we as a country, we would also like to retaliate. Anybody who delays visa for our nationals, we would also do the same as a country because we have a pride as a nation. The Comptroller-General, however, said that Nigeria was committed to ensuring that business was done normally with friends of the country. We are committed to issue visa on time and passport to our nationals wherever they are. Earlier, Onyeama said that the meeting was to enhance ease of doing business in the country. He, however, noted that the nation was still having challenges regarding consular services. Onyeama said the parley was to see how in conjunction with sister ministries, the nation could find solutions to the challenges. As part of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, the issue, as you know, some of the deliverables are there and it is for consular services that we also have to work hard together. So, we have always felt that we should all try and be speaking to each other. Oladele-Bukola of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Ibadan, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Tuesday. He emphasised that surveillance measures and rapid identification of new cases were critical for outbreak containment, stressing that people suspected of monkey pox disease should be well quarantined. Oladele-Bukola also suggested the establishment of functional Critical Disease Control (CDC) centres to contain such outbreak aside aggressive public education on preventive measures against viral diseases. According to him, monkey pox, a zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals) disease, is cause by oval brick-shaped viruses that have lipoprotein layer with filaments that cover the viral DNA. There are many members of this viral genus, including species such as variola (small pox), rabbitpox, cowpox, buffalopox, etc. "Most species infect a particular animal species but occasionally may infect other animals, he said. He advised Nigerians to avoid consumption of bush meat, dead animals particularly bush monkeys, stressing that meat and meat products should be thoroughly cooked before eating. He further disclosed that the disease could be prevented by avoiding eating or touching animals known to acquire the virus in the wild (mainly African rodents and monkeys). Person to person transfer has been documented; patients who have the disease should physically isolate themselves till all the pox lesions are healed." People who care for the patients should use gloves, face masks to avoid any direct or droplet contact, caregivers should obtain a small pox vaccination." Because small pox and monkey pox are so closely related, studies have suggested that people vaccinated against small pox have about an 85 per cent chance of being protected from monkey pox, he said. Oladele-Bukola also advised citizens to avoid contact with materials such as bedding that had been in contact with a sick animal or person and to practice good hand hygiene with/without contact with infected animals/humans. He explained that transmission of monkey pox was by direct contact with infected animals or possibly by eating poorly cooked meat from infected rodents or monkey. Mucosal lesions on infected animals are likely source of transmission to humans, especially when the human skin is broken due to bites, scratches or other trauma that are likely source for virus infection." It can also be through person to person transfer, probably by infected respiratory droplets or skin lesions of infected person or objects recently contaminated by patient materials." Since September 24 when some Nigerian soldier allegedly invaded his Umuahia, Abia State, home, Kanu's whereabouts has been unknown. Kanu's family had also called on the Federal Government to release the body of their son whom they claimed has been killed by the soldiers on the government's order. The IPOB leader is facing treason charges along with some members of his group. Justice Binta Nyako had granted only Kanu bail on health grounds with Senator Enyinaya Abaribe as one of his sureties. "Only the army can tell us where he is. Either they arrested him or they killed him,"Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Kanu's lawyer, told AFP. "If he is alive, they should bring him to the court on Tuesday (today)." According to the spokesman for the ministry of justice, Salihu Othman Isah, the appearance of Kanu and the presiding judge will determine whether the trial will go ahead. "I cant tell you specifically what will happen," The Nation quoted he added. ALSO READ: Did soldiers try to kill Kanu in his country home? Kanu's brother, Emmanuel, had claimed that he was taken away by troops but the army has since denied the claim. "They were so numerous. They started to shoot from 200 metres (650 feet) away. People were running for their lives. We had no guns with us," he had told the AFP. But a former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu, claimed that Kanu has eloped to the United Kingdom through Malaysia. The former minister made this disclosure during a panel discussion at the World Bank/IMF headquarters in Washington DC, United States on Sunday, October 15, 2017. She said for any government to effectively fight corruption, it must strengthen its weak institutions, provide incentives against the act, and employ technologies that will cripple it. She added that the government must patiently build its institutions to combat the scourge of corruption as it takes a lot of time. While addressing the subject of "Fighting Corruption", she said, "In terms of the fight against corruption, incentives and institutions matter. My experience has been that people in one place are no more corrupt than the other; but if the institutions are not there or they are very weak, then the incentive to be corrupt is stronger. "So, if you have a financial management system that is still cash-based, you open the door for people to manipulate or be able to intrude into the system. "If you can introduce more technology, if you can have systems and processes that guide government, if you can make e-procurement, the more of that you can build institutionally, and strengthen the institutions and then have the institutions of the rule of law alongside that, I think the more you will be able to fight corruption. We really need a systematic plan about fighting corruption. "The bid stories about scandals about corruption are really what people want to read. But actually, fighting corruption and putting those systems in place are very 'unsexy'; it takes time. "It took us 10 years to try and build the Government Integrated Financial Management System in Nigeria, to get way from cash-based transactions. "When you say the Government Integrated Financial Management System, it is so boring; nobody wants to hear. But that is what needs to be done. So, that is my one mantra. I think it is all about strengthening institutions. "Now, coming to the private sector; yes, the private sector is part of the problem; there is no doubt about it. The World Economic Forum estimated that bribery adds about 10 per cent to the cost of doing business. So, they are undoubtedly part of it. But I also want to say that the private sector is beginning to see that they are part of the solution, and that the world has changed. "There are responsible private sector people and organisations that want to be part of the solution and part of that change." Yari made this known on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 while defending his colleagues after President Muhammadu Buhari expressed concerns over state workers' unpaid salaries. President Buhari had said despite the intervention funds by the Federal Government, it is sad to know that state workers are still owed huge salaries. Replying him, Yari said the various interventions by the federal government were judiciously utilised by the states, stressing that the governors inherited backlog of unpaid salaries and huge debts portfolios on assumption of office. He said governors inherited backlog of unpaid salaries and huge debts portfolios on assumption of office. The governor publicly backed the president's reelection chances after paying him a visit on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at the Presidential Villa. While speaking to State House correspondents, Governor Ortom pointed to the president's renewed health as evidence that he's ready to lead the country to new heights in the coming years. He also pointed out that there's nobody more credible than the president to lead Nigeria out of its current state. He said, "I came to appreciate the President and to encourage him to be steadfast and committed to his leadership. I believe that what God brought him to achieve in this country, he will definitely achieve it. "Now we see him bouncing every day to the glory of God. We appreciate this and we look forward that God will help him to take us through 2015 to 2019 and then 2019 to 2023. "That is our prayer because for now, there is no credible candidate as far as I know that has the capacity to take Nigeria out of where we are today. "I believe Mr. President has the capacity and let God sustain his health and consummate his healing so that Nigeria can be on the right path." ALSO READ: President Buhari to leave for Turkey to attend D8 summit Boeing accuses Bombardier of manufacturing its 100-150 seat planes with public subsidies and selling them at a loss to Delta Air Lines. The agreement between Airbus and Bombardier aims to allow for significant production savings on the C-Series aircraft and to make use of Airbus's international reach for sales, the two groups said in a statement. "It's a win-win deal for everyone," said the president of Airbus, Tom Enders. "I have no doubt that our partnership with Bombardier will boost sales and the value of this program enormously." The programme's production headquarters will remain in Quebec. Airbus will take approximately 50.01 percent of the shares in CSALP, the entity which manages the C-Series program, with Bombardier and Investissement Quebec holding 31 and 19 percent respectively. "We are very happy to welcome Airbus to the C-Series program," Bombardier's CEO Alain Bellemare said. "Airbus is the perfect partner for us, Quebec, and Canada," he added. A deal between the two companies had been mooted previously but discussions stalled two years ago and the project was abandoned. The C-Series is a state-of-the-art aircraft largely built from composite materials. It complements Airbus' medium-range carrier, the A320, which can carry some 140 passengers. "The single aisle market is a key growth driver, representing 70 percent of the expected global future demand for aircraft," according to a statement from Bombardier. "Ranging from 100 to 150 seats, the C Series is highly complementary to Airbus' existing single aisle aircraft portfolio, which focuses on the higher end of the single-aisle business (150-240 seats)." Trade dispute The US aerospace firm Boeing, claiming its competitor received unfair state subsidies, successfully petitioned the Trump administration to impose financial penalties on Bombardier to keep it from selling its C-Series planes in the massive US market. In turn, Canada has voiced interest officially in some Australian military aircraft and called off discussions with Boeing on a possible purchase of 18 new Super Hornets. It intends to renew its fighter jets and is set to seek offers in 2019. Bombardier's C-Series is the first new design in the 100- to 150-seat category in more than 25 years, and US-based Delta Airlines has ordered 75 of them. In the complaint to the US Commerce Department that led to massive anti-dumping duties being imposed on Bombardier, Boeing accused its rival of unfairly benefiting from state subsidies that allowed it to sell C-Series aircraft at below cost to Delta Air Lines. During a conference call for the airline's third quarter results, Delta chief executive Ed Bastian said the duties imposed on the C-Series were "nonsensical," and vowed not to pay the additional tariffs. The trade row escalated to include rebukes from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who vowed to retaliate by nixing plans to buy 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from Boeing, and Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who is worried for 4,200 C-Series wing assembly jobs in Northern Ireland. In a report to the Security Council obtained by AFP, Guterres said the United Nations and other donors should shore up a regional force set up by Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger. The situation in the Sahel is "extremely concerning," Guterres said in the report released just days before Security Council ambassadors travel to the region for talks on the security crisis. "The international community remains confronted with a continuous downward spiral into another cycle of widespread violence despite important efforts," he said. Guterres warned that without urgent action "the stability of the entire region, and beyond, is in jeopardy, leaving millions of people at risk of violence," a development he described as a "disastrous scenario." The vast Sahel region has turned into a hotbed of violent extremism and lawlessness since chaos engulfed Libya in 2011, the Islamist takeover of northern Mali in 2012 and the rise of Boko Haram in northern Nigeria. Four US soldiers were killed this month in an ambush while on a joint patrol with Nigerien troops near the Mali border, an attack thought to be carried out by a regional affiliate of the Islamic State group. UN options The UN chief put forward four options to back the force, including setting up a United Nations support office in the Sahel and sharing resources from the 13,000-strong peacekeeping mission in Mali. The report will undoubtedly be welcomed by France, which has been lobbying hard for UN backing for the Sahel force, but the United States has resisted calls for funding. The estimated budget for the force's first year of operations was estimated at 423 million euros ($499 million), but so far only 108 million euros have been raised. The G5 countries have pledged 10 million euros each, the European Union is giving 50 million and France eight million euros. A donors' conference will be held in December in Brussels. Guterres said the risks of not supporting the Sahel force "vastly outweigh the risks of supporting it, given the magnitude of the challenges facing the Sahel region." The UN chief stressed that there was a risk of human rights abuses during the counter-terror operations because many of the armed groups in Mali are entrenched in the population. A UN presence, he argued, could help reduce harm to civilians. UN Security Council ambassadors will travel to Mali, Burkina Faso and Mauritania from Thursday to meet with leaders and discuss plans for the deployment of the force. Thousands of workers in Barcelona and other cities staged a brief walkout at noon in protest at Monday's move by the National Court in Madrid to keep Jordi Cuixart and Jordi Sanchez behind bars on sedition charges. "Repression is not the solution," protesters shouted as hundreds gathered outside the Catalan regional government offices in central Barcelona. "Now anyone can be put in jail," said Carme Guell, a 62-year-old beautician who joined the walkout as civil servants from nearby regional ministries blocked the street. Like many who back independence for semi-autonomous Catalonia -- which is profoundly divided on the issue -- Guell said the wealthy northeastern region was "treated like a colony. All our money is taken away, nothing is reinvested here." Catalonia's separatist government sparked Spain's worst political crisis in decades by holding a banned independence referendum on October 1, when a violent crackdown on voters by national police shocked the world. As the standoff shows little sign of easing, Madrid announced late Monday that it was cutting its growth forecast for next year from 2.6 to 2.3 percent. The prolonged uncertainty has rattled the stock markets, while nearly 700 companies have moved their legal headquarters out of Catalonia, according to official figures released Tuesday. 'Political prisoners' Further protests against the detention of Cuixart and Sanchez were planned for Tuesday afternoon in front of central government offices in Barcelona, Gerona, Tarragona and Lleida, with a candle-lit protest in Barcelona at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT). The pair nicknamed the "two Jordis" are the leaders of pro-independence citizens' groups Omnium Cultural and the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) respectively, both of which count tens of thousands of members and have emerged as influential players in the crisis. They are accused of encouraging a major protest last month as Spanish police raided the Catalan administration's offices in the run-up to the referendum. Police officers were trapped for hours and their vehicles vandalised as protesters ringed the building, with Cuixart and Sanchez standing atop a police car calling for "permanent mobilisation" against the Spanish state. The crime of sedition can carry up to 15 years in prison. "If you're watching this video, it's because the state has decided to deny me my freedom," Cuixart said in a message recorded before the court decision, adding that his organisation would work "underground" if necessary. Though she opposes the current drive for independence, Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau blasted the move to detain Sanchez and Cuixart, who she said were being held as "political prisoners". "The existence of political prisoners has no place in the current EU," she said, announcing the city council would halt meetings for two days in protest. Catalan police chief Josep Lluis Trapero has also been charged with sedition for allegedly failing to stop the referendum. He has been allowed to walk free, but is banned from leaving Spain. Enric Millo, the government's representative in Barcelona, insisted that the judge's decision had been made independently. "There is a separation of powers here," he told Catalunya Radio. 'Nuclear option'? Madrid has given Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont until Thursday to clarify whether he is declaring independence following the referendum, which resulted in a 90 percent 'Yes' vote -- although turnout was only 43 percent as many supporters of Spanish unity stayed away. Puigdemont stopped short of giving the definitive response that Madrid demanded on Monday and instead repeated his call for talks with Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy. But anything less than a full climb-down is likely to prompt the central government to start imposing unprecedented direct control over the semi-autonomous region -- the so-called "nuclear option". With its own language and culture, Catalonia is proud of its autonomy but its 7.5 million people are deeply split over whether to break definitively from the rest of Spain. Supporters of independence say the region pays more into Spanish coffers than it gets back and could prosper by going it alone, but their opponents say secession would spell political and economic disaster. Colony, founded by Thomas Barrack, a longtime friend of US President Donald Trump, will provide an "immediate cash infusion" into the Weinstein Company, the Weinstein Company said in a statement. "In addition, the Company has entered a negotiating period with Colony Capital for a potential sale of all or a significant portion of the Company's assets," the statement added. The company fired co-founder Harvey Weinstein earlier this month following numerous accusations of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Since that time, questions have swirled around whether the enterprise, started by Harvey and his brother Bob, could survive the disgraced exit of one of its co-founders. US business media have reported that four of the board's seven members have resigned. The studio's website still lists Harvey Weinstein as co-chairman. British news site the Daily Mail reported that the remaining board members were set to meet in New York City Tuesday. "On behalf of the board, we are pleased to announce this agreement and potential strategic partnership with Colony Capital," said Weinstein Company board member Tarak Ben Ammar. "We believe that Colony's investment and sponsorship will help stabilize the Company's current operations, as well as provide comfort to our critical distribution, production and talent partners around the world." Longtime Trump friend Colony Capital is led by Barrack, who raised funds for Trump during the presidential campaign and has served as an informal advisor since. Barrack, who is of Lebanese descent, has publicly disagreed at times with the president on immigration and other matters. Barrack, who founded Colony in 1991, built his fortune by investing in high-risk real estate in the Middle East and Germany and once saved Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch from foreclosure. Colony previously worked with the Weinstein company on a venture to monetize content from the library of Miramax, Weinstein's earlier company that was sold to Disney in 1993. "We are pleased to invest in The Weinstein Company and to help it move forward," said Barrack. "We believe the company has substantial value and growth potential," he said. "We will help return the company to its rightful iconic position in the independent film and television industry." The Weinstein company has been in free fall following revelations that Harvey Weinstein assaulted or harassed more than two dozen women in the movie industry, including major stars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd. Once called "God" by Meryl Streep, Weinstein is credited with helping to ignite the rise of major independent cinema in the early 1990s at Miramax. The numerous films he has steered to Academy Awards glory include "The Artist," "The King's Speech," and "The Iron Lady." But Weinstein, a supporter of progressive politicians including former President Barack Obama and Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, has been castigated by political and cinematic figures alike in the wake of accusations by more than two dozen women of predatory behavior. He is allged to have sought to deploy his immense power in Hollywood to pressure starlets and other young women into intimate relationships. The victims of the attack, which was claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, include "women, students and police", Hedayatullah Hamidi, public health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province, told AFP. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault," the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, it said. A local official said two car bombs went off near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing,"Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Photos posted on Twitter purportedly show two large plumes of smoke rising above the city, suggesting two bombs were detonated in the assault. Paktia borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. The attack came hours after a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. Local officials told AFP that drones were still flying above Kurram after the attack, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. Ghazni attack The extremist group has been blamed for carrying out spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since the US-led invasion in 2001 and is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. It was blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of the Afghan capital Kabul in May that killed around 150 people. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- who were rescued last week, as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. Militants also targeted security forces in Ghazni on Tuesday, some 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Gardez, officials there said. That attack, also ongoing, followed the same pattern, with "terrorists" detonating an explosives-laden Humvee vehicle near a police headquarters and attackers storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governor's spokesman, told AFP. Initial reports show seven police and around 20 civilians have been wounded, Noori said. Cadaver dogs have been enlisted to help recovery teams find the bodies of victims of the wind-driven fires, which bore down so swiftly that some residents had just minutes to flee their homes. A total of 1,643 people have been reported missing in Sonoma County and 1,420 of them have been reported safe, according to the authorities. Officials have said some of the remains found so far in the rubble of gutted homes were just "ash and bone" and identification could take weeks. Many of the victims have been elderly people in their 70s, 80s and 90s. Sonoma County has been the worst hit, reporting half of the 41 deaths so far, and an estimated 3,000 homes were destroyed in the city of Santa Rosa alone. Entire neighborhoods of Santa Rosa, population 175,000, the county seat, have been razed to the ground with just chimneys all that remain of many homes. Residents have told harrowing tales of jumping into swimming pools and spending hours in cold water while fire consumed their homes. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said Monday that the death toll rose to 41 when a private water tender driver died in a vehicle rollover in Napa County. 14 large fires still burning Cal Fire said 11,000 firefighters -- some from as far away as Australia -- were currently battling 14 large wildfires which have burned more than 213,000 acres (86,200 hectares). In an update early Monday, the agency said firefighters were making "good progress" against the fires "despite the fact that several new fires ignited." Only light winds were forecast on Monday, providing hope that more progress could be made in containing the blazes. Evacuation orders were lifted meanwhile for several areas and Cal Fire said the number of people evacuated had dropped to 40,000 from 75,000. A total of 5,700 homes and businesses have been destroyed by the fires, the deadliest in California's history. "Nothing has been this bad that I've ever seen in our state, the devastation, the horror, the displacement," Governor Jerry Brown said Saturday. "It's not over yet." Tammy Key was among residents of the Santa Rosa neighborhood of Coffey Park who returned home on Sunday. Key said firefighters stopped the blaze close to her house, but many of her neighbors were not so lucky and lost their homes. Her half is the one that collapsed, leaving nothing but one side of walls, including the one with the sepia-toned pictures of her daughters. "Lupita," as her friends call her, miraculously escaped the quake, which killed 369 people, mostly in the capital. The one-time mountain climber, who once traveled the world scaling some of the highest peaks on Earth, had gone out to buy bread just before the ground started to shake. When she returned, Vazquez thought she had taken the wrong street: the building she had lived in for 50 years was unrecognizable. Reality sank in when Vazquez saw her photos on the wall. "I realized that would be the only thing I had left -- if they manage to get them out," she said. With the unstable building now set to be demolished, the authorities are letting one person at a time go back inside to retrieve belongings. Accompanied by emergency workers, they bring out whatever they can, backpack after backpack, for themselves and their neighbors. Each time one of these daring young volunteers comes back down from the rubble, they are greeted with applause, hugs and tears. "We just said goodbye to our home," said one, sporting a protective harness and helmet after making the trip. Nearly a month after the quake, that goodbye is especially poignant. Residents have set up an impromptu camp outside the building, staying there night and day -- ostensibly to fend off looters. The ground floor of the building used to house a dry cleaning service. For several days after the quake, a worker could still be seen ironing clothes on the street. Five minutes Residents are limited to five minutes inside. Hoisted by a crane, they enter through broken windows or holes in the walls, with strict instructions to move as little as possible. Documents, photos and items of sentimental value are the most prized possessions. "It's crazy to be in there and see everything smashed to pieces, and you have to try not to create a single vibration," said Jose Colin, 38. He managed to salvage a hard drive and a picture of him and his fiancee. Like many of the younger residents, they were at work when the quake hit. No one was killed when the building collapsed, something residents are calling a miracle. Another resident, Oscar Landin, came down from the wreckage with a baby Jesus figurine for an elderly neighbor. "I grabbed as much as I could... I wanted to get our documents from my mom's room, but it was impossible to reach," he said. Nearly 50 buildings in Mexico City collapsed completely during the earthquake. Another 8,000 were damaged. Renzi, 42, who rode away on a centre-left Democratic Party (PD) train marked "Destination Italy", told journalists his aim was to "listen to and learn from" ordinary Italians as the left tries to fend off right-wing and populist gains. But he may have to do more than catch a train to bump centre-right rival Silvio Berlusconi from the spotlight. The ex-media mogul made a typically outrageous return to front-line politics this weekend, regaling supporters with a joke about Africans and oral sex. Berlusconi, who had dropped out of the public eye following heart surgery last year, has said he wants the PM job. With a nod to his friendship with the slain Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, the 81-year old shrugged off his age, reviving and revelling in his reputation as the host of "bunga bunga" sex parties with young starlets. The four-time former prime minister is banned from running for office due to a 2013 tax fraud conviction, but has appealed to the European Court of Human Rights to overturn it. While a hearing is scheduled for November, a verdict is doubtful before the general election, which must be held by May at the latest. A date for the polls has yet to be set, but could come as early as March. 'Needle and thread' If Berlusconi is unlikely to run, he will play a key role in rustling up votes for the centre-right, which is celebrating strong poll numbers and could seize power from the centre-left if it forms a coalition. A poll on Monday taken by the Demos institute showed the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement (M5S) leading the pack with 27 percent of the vote, and the ruling centre-left PD snapping at its heels with 26 percent. Berlusconi's Go Italy party and the anti-immigrant Northern League had around 14 to 15 percent of the vote each. But should Go Italy and the Northern League band together with the small, nationalist Brothers of Italy party, together they would take home over 34 percent of the vote. The parties would need to agree on a PM candidate that would appeal to voters from both the centre and far right. The Northern League's head Matteo Salvini on Monday rubbished Berlusconi's suggestion a popular candidate could be chosen by polling, saying "this is not X-Factor" and insisting "I'll be prime minister by March". The current electoral system means no party looks likely to win enough seats to govern alone -- a fact which may exclude the populist M5S from power as it refuses to join forces with traditional political parties. Renzi's tour will take him first to towns in central Umbria devastated by earthquakes last year, before heading south. Walter Veltroni, who served as the PD's first secretary when it was founded in 2007, warned the Florentine he would have to work hard to reunite a divided left which spends more energy on infighting than challenging the centre-right. "Everything is finished in Raqa, our forces have taken full control of Raqa," SDF spokesman Talal Sello told AFP. "The military operations in Raqa have finished, but there are clearing operations now under way to uncover any sleeper cells there might be and remove mines," he added. "Soon there will be an official statement announcing the liberation of the city." On Monday, the SDF had taken the infamous Al-Naim traffic circle, dubbed the "Roundabout of Hell" by residents under IS rule because the jihadists used it for public beheadings and crucifixions. The SDF, an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters, began their operation to drive IS from Raqa last November, spending months encircling the city before breaking into it in June. Over the course of four months, they captured some 90 percent of the city, but operations were paused last week to allow local officials to negotiate the evacuation of thousands of trapped civilians. Under the agreement, several hundred Syrian IS fighters and family members also left remaining jihadist positions, leaving only an estimated 300 foreign fighters in the city. IS captured Raqa in 2014 and transformed it into the de facto Syrian capital of its self-styled "caliphate" in Syria and Iraq. Duterte led rain-soaked soldiers in celebrations in Marawi, a day after the military announced the death of the head of the Islamic State group in Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, in a gunbattle in the city. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated from the terrorists' influence that marks the beginning of the rehabilitation," Duterte said, speaking moments after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city. "I promise you this will never happen again," he said as he gave troops a snappy salute. Duterte stood on a gymnasium stage with a ruined roof near a tarpaulin bearing large photos of the dead militants. After he left, soldiers took selfies in front of a bombed-out building while others hoisted a Philippine flag atop a tank. Military chief of staff General Eduardo Ano later clarified that the fighting against 20 to 30 remaining militants continued, describing them as "stragglers" and the clashes as "mopping operations". "The small number of the remaining enemy can now be considered a law enforcement matter and does not constitute (a) serious threat to hinder (rehabilitation)," Ano said in a statement. Troops persisted in efforts to rescue about 20 hostages, Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the task force battling the militants, told AFP. Asked by reporters if Duterte's declaration was symbolic, Brawner said: "Yes, because we cannot really say that (the area) is 100 percent cleared." Pro-IS gunmen occupied parts of Marawi, the main Islamic city in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, on May 23 following a foiled attempt by security forces to arrest Hapilon. Insurgents endured a relentless US-backed bombing campaign and intense ground battles with troops in the nation's longest urban conflict since World War II. The military said Monday that Hapilon -- who figured on the US "most wanted terrorists" list -- was killed in a dawn offensive alongside Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers who allied with Hapilon to plot the takeover of the city. Duterte had said Hapilon led an IS bid to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate as the jihadists suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. Malaysian financier Streets in Marawi were littered with machine gun bullet casings and rubble, including a van and twisted roofing sheets piled up on sidewalks. Troops were hunting a Malaysian militant, Mahmud Ahmad, who has been tipped to take over IS in the region following Hapilon's death. The military said he was among six to eight foreign fighters in a battle zone comprising about 60 to 80 buildings. "Mahmud remains... one of our high-value targets in the operations being conducted," said military spokesman Major-General Restituto Padilla. Terrorism expert Ahmad Kumar Ramakrishna from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies said if Mahmud Ahmad survived he would likely take over the leadership of IS-linked fighters in the southern Philippines. jpegMpeg4-1280x720The militant is also reported to be a university lecturer in his home country who was in charge of raising finances from abroad for the jihadists and recruitment. The restive south of the Philippines is home to extremist gangs which have declared allegiance to IS, including notorious kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf and the Maute group. On Tuesday the military warned against retaliatory attacks from sympathisers of the militants. The United States, a longtime defence ally of the Philippines, vowed on Tuesday to support the military's final push in Marawi. The UN said between 10,000 and 15,000 new refugees have arrived at the border in the last 48 hours alone, fleeing violence in Myanmar, where Rohingya villages are being burned to the ground. It expressed deep concern about newly arrived refugees including children and elderly people dehydrated and hungry from the long journey who are stranded near the border. One Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) official told AFP on condition of anonymity that the new arrivals were being held in an area of no man's land, although it was not immediately clear why. Spokesman Andrej Mahecic said the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) was advocating with the Bangladesh authorities "to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly difficult conditions back home". He said UNHCR staff had spoken with people who described walking for a week to reach the Bangladesh border. Most are still squatting in paddy fields in Bangladesh, and were waiting for permission to move away from the border, he said. "Every minute counts given the fragile condition they're arriving in," said Mahecic. Mahecic said many had chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmar's Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed. "They finally fled when their villages were set on fire," he said. Many of the new arrivals were from Rakhine's Buthidaung district, which lies relatively far from the border with Bangladesh. "The military killed my brother. We walked all the way to this land to save our lives," said Mohammad Shoeb, who arrived at the border with his family on Monday evening. The UN said a jump of 45,000 in its estimated number of newly arrived refugees to 582,000 was due partly to improved access to some areas where many had previously gone uncounted. That figure does not include the thousands currently in no man's land. The Rohingya are fleeing violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state, where the UN has accused troops of waging an ethnic cleansing campaign against them. The numbers have soared since August 25, when militant attacks on Myanmar's security forces in Rakhine sparked a major military backlash. Hundreds more have drowned making the perilous journey. On Monday authorities said they had found the bodies of 10 Rohingya whose boat sank in the estuary of the Naf river that divides the two countries. The UNHCR said it was working with the Bangladesh government to complete a new transit centre in Kutupalong, the largest of the refugee camps housing the Rohingya. Bangladesh has announced plans to build a refugee camp that could accommodate around 800,000 Rohingya in Kutupalong. "There can be no fight against corruption while Poroshenko is in power," Saakashvili said. "It is time for them to hear us," the 49-year-old said to chants of "Shame!" and "Out with the gang!" The national police department said an anti-riot officer and three demonstrators were hurt in scuffles that involved nearly 5,000 people in the heart of Kiev. Poroshenko was a Western favourite who rose to power when a bloody 2014 revolution toppled a Kremlin-backed regime and pulled Ukraine out of Russia's historic orbit. But Poroshenko's critics fear that he has put the breaks on institutional changes and the difficult task of eliminating state graft in order to preserve the existing political order. The complex relationship between Saakashvili and Poroshenko has had twists and turns that exemplify the difficulties facing crisis-torn Ukraine. Saakashvili was a fierce Poroshenko supporter who became a regional Ukrainian governor after serving two terms as Georgia's president before fleeing that country under pressure from the new regime. Yet Saakashvili became more disgruntled with time and eventually accused Poroshenko himself of being the corruption kingpin. The charge saw Saakashvili lose his Ukrainian citizenship while he was paying a visit to the United States in July. Saakashvili made a dramatic return to Ukraine with the help of hundreds of supporters in September and the protest in Kiev on Tuesday marked his sternest face-off with Poroshenko to date. Poroshenko did not address the corruption allegations on Tuesday and just told reporters: "I view the protests with understanding and respect its participants". Three demands The protesters issued three major demands for the country's president. The most crucial involved stripping lawmakers of immunity from prosecution and launching an anti-corruption court that Kiev's lenders at the IMF have labelled a "benchmark" of Ukraine's progress toward Western standards. A third demand called for changes to the election system that would help independent lawmakers gain seats. Tuesday's rally was called by several political parties besides Saakashvili's which have also opposed Poroshenko's rule. These included one led by former premier Yulia Tymoshenko and the Samopomich (Self-Reliance) movement that was first elected to parliament in 2015. The three are currently united by a deep-seated antipathy toward Poroshenko. Yet it is unclear how long their union will last since each appears to have its own political ambitions. Mounting pressure Poroshenko appeared to respond to the mounting political pressure by introducing a bill on Tuesday that would eliminate lawmakers' immunity starting in 2020. But protest organisers dismissed this as a token measure that needlessly delayed the long-promised change. "In order to start political reforms, we have to have a regime change," university lecturer Taras Tretyak told AFP as protesters sang and chanted around him. "Unfortunately, Ukraine is in such a state that the issue of conducting reforms is one of the country's very survival," the 37-year-old said. The bombing on Saturday, killed more than 300 people and injured at least 400 others. Officials said it bore the hallmarks of the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab group, but they have not claimed responsibility. Countries including Turkey and Qatar are providing medical assistance. We are requesting blood, we are requesting assistance for verifying the dead in order for their relatives to know, Osman told Reuters by phone from Mogadishu. Somalia has been mired in conflict since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew a dictator then turned on each other. One of the poorest countries in Africa, it faces severe food insecurity and relies on foreign donors to support its institutions and basic services. Osman said the bodies of more than 100 people buried on Monday were blown beyond recognition, and that he hoped other bodies could still be identified. Turkish doctors, mainly surgeons and specialists in spine injuries, arrived along with Turkeys health minister on Monday. They are treating people in hospitals in Mogadishu, the minister said. Turkey evacuated 35 critically wounded Somalis to Ankara by plane on Monday, the countrys deputy prime minister Recep Akdag told reporters upon returning from Somalia. An increasingly close ally of Somalia, Turkey opened a 50 million dollars military base in the capital in September. The minister said medicine from neighbouring nations Djibouti and Kenya arrived by plane on Tuesday and air ambulance was en route from the Gulf state of Qatar. The Putney Debates 2017 - Saturday 28th October Putney Events Participate Sign up for our weekly Putney newsletter Comment on this item on the This October Veterans For Peace UK (VFP UK) will be hosting the first of a series of debates on the concept of democracy, debate and dissent in the Armed Forces and the impact on our society and history. Keynote speakers include historians John Rees, author the new biography on John Lilburne, and Julian Putowski, author of Shot at Dawn. The headline of the event will be a debate with modern day dissenters former SAS soldier Ben Griffin, and renowned author of The Soldier Box Joe Glenton. In each session audience feedback, questions, and debate will be encouraged. At the end of the first English Civil War soldiers, civilians, and men of power came together to debate the future of England and their place in it. The debates started on 28th October 1647 at St Marys Church in Putney. Some of their ideas on democracy, representation, and land rights have still not been achieved, such as the abolition of the House of Lords. This was the beginning of the discussion about democracy and the rights of people in a modern society. This is the first time in 370 years that veterans have come together to commemorate this event and discuss the big issues of the day. Saturday 28th October at St Mary's Church Putney SW15 1SN 12:00 - 16:00hrs, entry is free - please register here. October 16, 2017 A Massachusetts man is being held in the Henry County Jail on $2 million bond on charges of attempted murder and aggravated discharge of a firearm. Shaun N. Taylor, 36, is alleged to have taken a substantial step toward first-degree murder on Sunday after allegedly trying to shoot Trooper Andrew Scott with a .22-caliber rifle, knowing Trooper Scott to be a peace officer engaged in official duties. The incident that led to the charges began around 9:30 p.m. Sunday when a state trooper stopped a red sport utility vehicle in the Atkinson area, and the driver fled, according to a state police news release. Mr. Taylor, of East Falmouth, Mass., was identified in the release as the driver. A trooper, who was not identified by name in the release, located the vehicle, then the trooper's squad was shot several times, the release states. Multiple police agencies established a perimeter around the area where the gunman was believed to be, and the Illinois State Police Special Weapons and Tactics team and the Henry County Emergency Response Team began to search for the shooter. The search included a state police aircraft equipped with infrared sensors. Around 5:15 a.m. a man identified as Mr. Taylor in the release turned himself in at the state police command post set up as part of the search. Agencies that took part in the response to the attack included the Geneseo, Galva, Atkinson, Annawan, Kewanee and Colona police departments, the release states. Atkinson firefighters also took part. The penalty for Class X attempted murder ranges from 20 to 80 years in prison. The penalty for aggravated discharge of a firearm is 10 to 45 years in prison. In determining whether to appoint the public defender, the judge asked about Mr. Taylor's employment status. He said he was not employed. A preliminary hearing was set for Oct. 23. Staff Writer Anthony Watt contributed to this report. DAVENPORT, Iowa, October 12, 2017 MCC QC is hosting a Fall Craft Show and Bake Sale on Saturday, October 21 from 9am-3pm. The craft show is being held in the social hall of MCC QC located at 2930 W. Locust Street in Davenport across the street from the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds. Start your holiday shoppingBring the family! There will be beverages and walking tacos for sale as well as baked items: homemade cakes, pies, cookies and breads. There is no cost for guests to attend the event. Upcoming Events with Volunteer Needs and Reminders: Wednesday, October 17th: Everyone is welcome to join us at our QCESC Monthly Meetings at 6:00 P.M. at Hamilton Tech College (Hamilton Tech (Main Entrance), 1011 E. 53rd Street, Davenport, Iowa). Questions? Contact us at qcesc.org@gmail.com. VIEW AGENDA Tuesday, November 7th: STEM TEACHERS NIGHT OUT at Assumption High School. This is a FREE event (with Pizza!) for area STEM Teachers, School Administration & key STEM Stakeholders to collaborate and share information & ideas and see local STEM education & business facilities in Iowa & Illinois. Registration and details coming! Volunteers Needed for 21 FIRST Robotics Events October - April to Support Quad City Area Students ages 6-18 Click here for dates, details and registration Scholarship Applications for Graduating HS Seniors are ONLINE NOW. Deadline is: January 23, 2018. Applicants must be a Quad City area resident in the Illinois Counties of Carroll, Henry, Knox, Lee, Mercer, Rock Island, or Whiteside, or in the Iowa Counties of Clinton, Scott, Muscatine, or Louisa. APPLY NOW! Grant Applications for FIRST Robotic Teams - Know a school (K-12) or non-profit looking for a great way to provide their students, hands-on, fun learning? Grants for new and returning FIRST teams are available to schools and non-profits through the John Deere Inspire program. The current deadlines to apply by program: FIRST Robotics Competition (age 14-18) - Deadline is November 10 FIRST LEGO League Junior (age 6-10) Junior is March 2, 2018 Link to further information including the grant application. PORT BYRONVillage trustees discussed downtown planning, including a Main Street parking/ bicycle path, at Mondays meeting. The planning and zoning committee liked the parking/street layout: two-way Cycle Track on the west and flex parking/sidewalk on the east as well as the option of a continues multi-Use Path to the north and south, outside of the business district, presented to the committee by MSA, Trustee Gerry Meade, the Planning and Zoning chairman, said. MSA had warned the committee that there will be difficulties with the design and providing Americans With Disabilities-compliant access to each building. These hurdles could result in loss of parking in front of particular businesses in order to accommodate ADA ramps into businesses. It is expected that 16 parking spots would be lost but could be made up in other places, Jerod Fluhr of MSA said. Mr. Fluhr explained that bump-outs would be used at intersections and as necessary to accommodate ADA ramps, adding that aesthetic and streetscape beautification elements would be discussed as the concept progresses. According to notes from the Planning and Zoning Committee Meeting, it was determined that expansion of the parking lot is not likely to happen and parking at the post office no longer is an option. Since the boat launch parking is not functional, it could be converted to vehicular parking lots and boat launch staging spots. Boat parking could go south of Lynn, parallel parking along Main Street to Quarry Street. Even with the potential of Village Hall moving, MSA did not think a parking lot is the best use for such prime real estate property. Because the village hopes to pay for the project with an ITEP Grant, a public hearing is scheduled for Monday, Nov 6, at 5 p.m. In other business: Tug Fest Committee President Tammy Knapp presented Boy Scout Troop 351 a check for $1,000 from the profits of Tug Fest. According to Mrs. Knapp, $8,600 was donated this year to various nonprofits. Mr. Fluhr updated the trustees on the 9th Street Court North rehabilitation. A payment application of $36,954 was approved. Repair of the north lift station was approved not to exceed $9,200. A generator bid was accepted from Tri City with funds coming from TIF. Flu shots will be Oct 24 at Village Hall from 10 a.m. to noon. Trick or Treat will take place Oct. 31, from 5-8 pm. Celebrating Our Service Members Friday, November 11 is Veterans Day, when we honor and show gratitude to all members of our Armed Forces those currently serving, those who... Transit Equity Starts With QueensLink For decades Queens has seen a disinvestment in the necessary transit infrastructure the borough needs to promote equity and sustainability. Most of the time, transformative... 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 ECHR found no political motives in Navalny brothers Yves Rocher case Justice Ministry MOSCOW, October 17 (RAPSI) The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) found no political motives in prosecution and conviction of Russian opposition politician Alexey Navalny and his brother Oleg in the Yves Rocher embezzlement case, Russias Justice Ministry commented on the Strasbourg courts ruling issued on Tuesday. The European Court of Human Rights confirmed that delivery of justice in the criminal case could not pursue political agenda. Inadmissibility of this aspect of the complaint was so obvious for the ECHR that the applicants arguments about alleged political motives of their prosecution were not even included in the subject for study, the Ministry said. The Strasbourg court on Tuesday held that there was violation of Article 6 (Right to a fair trial) and Article 7 (No punishment without law) of the European Convention on Human Rights (Convention). However, the ECHR refused to recognize criminal prosecution of the Navalny brothers as politically motivated by declaring their complaints under Article 18 in conjunction with Articles 6 and 7 of the Convention inadmissible. The Court ordered Russia to pay 55,000 to Alexey Navalny in compensation. Oleg Navalny was awarded about 21,000 and 460,000 rubles. The awarded compensations are significantly less than the requested ones, the Justice Ministry noted. Moreover, the ECHR dismissed the applicants claim for the compensation of their payments in a civil lawsuit, the statement reads. In December 2014, Navalny was given a 3.5-year suspended sentence in the Yves Rocher case. His brother Oleg received a 3.5-year prison term. They were convicted of stealing nearly 30 million rubles (about $500,000 at the current exchange rate) from two companies, including Russian affiliate of Yves Rocher. The term of Oleg Navalny is to expire on June 30, 2018. They filed the application with the ECHR in January 2015. The applicants complained that they had been convicted based on an unforeseeable application of criminal law, in breach of Article 7 of the Convention, and that those proceedings had been conducted in violation of Article 6 of the Convention. The brothers also insisted that their prosecution and conviction had pursued purposes other than bringing them to justice, in particular curtailing public and political activity of Alexey Navalny. In March 2016, the complaint was communicated to the Russian government. Russian Constitutional Court bans review of final judgments upon Supreme Courts decision ST. PETERSBURG, October 17 (RAPSI) Russias Constitutional Court has banned review of court rulings, which already came into force, because of the resolutions made by boards of the Supreme Court, RAPSI correspondent reports from the courtroom on Tuesday. Several Russian citizens turned to the Constitutional Court after court rulings in their favor were overturned after the Supreme Court made resolutions with meanings contrary to the ones in place of applicants cases. The Constitutional Court stated that procedural conditions for review of the court rulings should provide legal certainty, including recognition of the validity of judgments, their incontrovertibility. According to the court, revision of the decisions that came into force may be conditioned only by decisions unrelated to resolutions of the judicial boards. The Court ruled that legislators should amend the provisions in question and provide for the possibility of reviewing the rulings, which came into force only if there is a formulated legal position of the Plenum or the Presidium of the Supreme Court. In addition, according to the ruling of the court, legislators should take into account that there should be no worsening in relations between citizens and authorities. Court rulings in cases of the applicants will be reviewed. Probe opened into deliberate bankruptcy of VIM Airlines investigators MOSCOW, October 17 (RAPSI) A criminal case has been launched over premeditated bankruptcy of VIM Airlines, Russias Investigative Committee announced on Tuesday. Investigators believe that certain top managers and owners of the air carrier intentionally made losing bargains in 2016 and 2017 including those aimed at siphoning of assets abroad. The deals led to enormous financial outlay and undoubtedly resulted in the companys failure to pay debts to creditors in full. Earlier, probe was opened into VIM Airlines employees over alleged embezzlement. According to investigators, employees of the VIM Airlines continued to sell tickets to clients despite being aware that the airline was not able to transfer passengers because there were not enough funds to buy fuel. Investigators believe that the employees embezzled more than one million rubles ($17,000). In late September, the Investigative Committee official representative Svetlana Petrenko told RAPSI that investigative authorities took measures to recover damage caused by employees of the airline as part of the notorious embezzlement case. VIM Airlines CEO and chief accountant, Alexander Kochnev and Yekaterina Panteleyeva, have been arrested as part of the case. Co-owners of VIM Airlines Rashid Mursekayev and Svetlana Mursekayeva fled Russia and are currently residing abroad, according to investigators. According to a field commander of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the last Islamic State (IS) holdouts will lose control of Raqqa, the group's self-proclaimed capital, by sometime in the third week of October. Alongside the fall of Mosul, the IS stronghold in Iraq, this development marks a second collapse of governance for the jihadists. Reflecting this failure, for the first time since IS began systematizing its governance capabilities in late 2013 and early 2014, the group's media apparatus has not, for roughly a month, released any material related to governing, social services, or dawa (proselytizing and outreach activities). The most sophisticated system of jihadist governance ever established thus appears to be dwindling to nothing. All the same, it is worth noting that the media silence may not indicate the absolute cessation of IS governance -- indeed, the group is likely engaging in basic governance in certain areas along the Iraq-Syria border -- but instead the further erosion of its media apparatus. THE FIRST AND SECOND ISLAMIC STATE Preceding the recent bid for jihadist governance was an earlier, more limited attempt that lasted from around 2006 to 2009 by the Islamic State of Iraq (ISI), as the group was then called. Governance in name only, it occurred just in Iraq and had mainly a law-and-order emphasis rather than one encompassing comprehensive services. Moreover, it relied mainly on hisba-like (moral policing) activities. This attempt was temporarily quashed by the U.S. troop surge and the sahwa (awakening) movement among Sunni tribesmen. The second IS attempt at governance, far wider-reaching and more sophisticated, emerged in Syria from April 2013 to January 2014. Before ISIS, as it was then known, fell out with Syrian revolutionaries and al-Qaeda, and before announcing its establishment of a caliphate in June 2014, the group sought mainly to project a positive self-image to the Syrian population through dawa forums and delivery of basic services. It also conducted softer moral policing, such as burning cartons of cigarettes or confiscating alcohol bottles. IS also positioned itself as a state-like entity, showing off its various administrative departments, including its dawa offices, sharia courts, religious schools, police stations, and local municipalities, among other features. This process was uneven until the June 2014 caliphate announcement, with the subsequent expanded IS governance following a particular methodology (to view a table outlining this methodology, go to the web version of this PolicyWatch). CORRELATION BETWEEN IS MEDIA AND GOVERNANCE Because about 65% of Islamic State media releases consist of images, which the group disseminates much more often than official videos, images will here constitute the measure for media activity overall. Indeed, based on this measure, IS media releases on governance peaked in summer 2015 and have fallen gradually ever since. This degradation is no doubt linked to the broader U.S.-led military campaign, which has narrowed the space for governance opportunities. In particular, after the fall of Mosul in July 2017, the IS distribution of governance-related media dropped precipitously (by 66%) until the complete end of such media activity (on September 12 in Syria; September 16 in Iraq). For reference, at its apex, between June and August 2015, IS released 3,762 pictures related to governance activities in Syria and 3,305 in Iraq. When Mosul fell, between May and July 2017, IS only released 315 pictures related to governance in Syria and 171 in Iraq. And the most recent count prior to the mid-September 2017 rupture was 142 in Syria and 113 in Iraq, between July and September 2017. These figures show the extent to which the group's governance capacity as well as its media campaign have been hurt by the anti-IS military campaign. THE FUTURE The dissipation of Islamic State media activity should not be interpreted to reflect disinterest in continuing to govern and conduct itself as a state. At the current stage, the group simply cannot sustain such activity. Yet should the opportunity arise again, IS will likely seek to govern, as it has already attempted on a limited basis in places like the Sinai Peninsula or Afghanistan. The case of Libya, however, illustrates fundamental challenges to such an endeavor. Having only just reemerged militarily after being booted from Sirte in December 2016, the group has yet to establish a base from which it can again govern in the country. Correspondingly, IS governance structures throughout Iraq and Syria may take years, rather than months, to resurface in their previous capacity, depending on the clear-out and administration of post-IS territories by the Iraqi or Syrian governments or by other, nonstate actors like the Kurdish-led SDF or the Iraqi Shia-led al-Hashd al-Shabi. Further demonstrating this difficulty, IS has yet to reestablish governance in Mosul since it lost control in July. Beyond the governance angle -- and despite IS maintaining authority only in certain towns straddling the Iraq-Syria border -- the group continues to conduct military operations. On this count, it is worth recalling that between the tactical defeat of ISI following the sahwa movement and troop surge around 2009, and its reemergence as ISIS around 2012-13, Iraq remained the most violent conflict in the world. This reality illustrates the incredible lethal dangers posed by IS even if it does not control territory. Furthermore, the IS of today is stronger than the group's previous incarnation in 2009-12, with violence in Iraq currently three times more deadly than during the roughly four-year period following the surge. The bureaucratic apparatus might be dormant, but the insurgent capabilities remain formidable. As a consequence, future scenarios will depend largely on the economic, social, and political situation in both Iraq and Syria and whether a new vacuum will open up as a result of poor management of post-IS territory populated mainly by Sunnis. Indeed, such a vacuum formed in the years after the surge, and Washington therefore must learn from its mistakes of the last decade. These mistakes included withdrawing too early and allowing local governments to marginalize or terrorize Sunni populations, with signs of the latter already reappearing in Iraq. To be sure, such dynamics allowed the earlier incarnation of IS to rebuild its capabilities. Further, in Iraq and Syria today, many of the grievances that fueled the rise of the Islamic State persist. Aaron Y. Zelin is the Richard Borow Fellow at The Washington Institute. Reprinted with permission from The Washington Institute. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale Buy real estate. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale in US and Canada. Search Real Estate , We're sorry, this article is not currently available By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 10/16/2017 ADVERTISEMENT FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. 2 star Javi Marroquin has revealed his real motive for appearing on Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars with former partner Kailyn Lowry Javi was secretly hoping to rekindle a romantic flame with Kailyn during the filming process of the show, which unfortunately didn't happen."I did, in my heart, kind of hope this bootcamp would make her fall in love with me," Javi, 24, admitted to Us Weekly. "So I still held on."Kailyn had told Us earlier this month that she discovered Javi wanted her back during the taping of Season 11 of Marriage Boot Camp and it caught her off guard."I didn't even know those were Javi's intentions," she had said . "I thought we were going in, literally, to make co-parenting work... and I learned that Javi wanted to make our relationship work -- like an actual relationship. I was a little surprised."The former couple -- who share three-year-old son Lincoln -- reportedly rehashed their feelings about their bitter split following three years of marriage on Friday's premiere episode of Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars, including Javi's accusations Kailyn had cheated on him with multiple men while the Air Force member was deployed."I'm in the military, so I deploy," Javi told his co-stars, according to Us. "Then I found out she was sleeping with somebody else.""I don't believe it's cheating if you're separated," Kailyn, 25, argued on the show, to which Javi replied, "I believe it's cheating when you don't know you're separated."Kailyn then reportedly snapped back, "Javi, you lied and said that you filed for divorce and you didn't, so when I went and filed, you got served before you left."Javi and Kailyn had a lot of issues to work through on Marriage Boot Camp, however, their experience apparently turned out to be a positive one overall."Once you get home, you reflect on all the drills and what they taught us and I'm so happy and our relationship is great. Right now we are co-parenting really well," Javi revealed, adding that he learned a lot, including how to be "more open from the jump with dislikes and likes about your partner."Javi additionally noted to Us, "You want to make the other person happy, so knowing that is key. A lot of the drills were communication so we learned how to talk to each other instead of at each other!"Javi and Kailyn -- who announced their divorce in May 2016 -- do appear to be on amicable terms, as he recently shared an adorable photo on Instagram of himself kissing the former 16 & Pregnant star on the cheek."As far as the [future] goes, I can't predict it, so who knows," admitted Javi, who appears to be dating other women now.Meanwhile, Kailyn welcomed her third child , Lux Russell, in August 2017 with ex-boyfriend Chris Lopez and said she is "definitely single" at the moment.Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars currently airs Friday nights at 9PM ET on WE tv. Images Sorry, there are no recent results for popular images. A rape occurred Saturday, Sept. 30 on the University of Georgia campus, according to a report from the University of Georgia Police Department. Editor's Note The Red & Black publishes opinions from a number of contributors and staff columnists. Their opinions do not reflect the opinions of the editorial staff. The editorial staff is in no way involved with the opinion pieces published with the exception of editorials. Editorials are written by the editorial board consisting of the opinion editor, managing editor and editor-in-chief. Editorials are clearly marked EDITORIAL at the beginning. This article is from contributor Lyndsey McElhannon, a junior English major. Sexual assault is one of those sensitive subjects that people do not want to talk about. The subject has a tendency to be ignored because it is easier to act as if it doesnt happen instead of admitting that sexual assault is a problem. Unfortunately, sexual assault happens, and because of its devastating effects on those involved, it leaves a lasting, persistent fear. No one likes to even say the word rape because it is such a repulsive word, yet someone taking the life and choices of someone else in their own hands is disgusting within itself. Rape happens all over the world at any given time. In college, rape is an exceptional risk factor as young men and women find themselves alone navigating the dating and party scene, some for the first time in their lives. Based on a study by the U.S. Department of Justice, there are 35 incidents of rape each academic year per 1,000 women attending the college. The unfortunate reality is that colleges need to do more to ensure that campus is a safe environment for students and faculty. An astonishing 89 percent of colleges reported zero cases of rape in 2015. This could be due, in part, to the fact that more than 80% of sexual assault cases on college campuses go unreported. Universities need to step up and be a voice for their students, because as a result of their silence students feel more at risk and unheard. Universities should do more to ensure that students feel comfortable and listened to if they need to report a rape or sexual assault. The University of Georgia had 17 reported rape cases in 2016, yet there were zero arrests made. That number has only grown from 2015, when 13 rapes were reported with 1 arrest. On Sept. 30, there was a rape that happened on UGAs campus. The victim was walking home from a bar in downtown Athens when her attacker approached her in the Hull Street loading area of Moore-Rooker Hall near the Special Collections Library on campus. The university chose not to contact its students in regards to the recent attack on campus, and it was not until weeks after the attack that the university reached out via email to its students. The email stated, UGA police determined that the incident did not represent a serious or continuing threat to students and employees that would warrant a timely warning. On-Campus Rape Sept. This sign was posted in a bathroom within the Zell B. Miller Learning Center by an anonymous source, urging students to contact UGAPD. Even if there is no threat to the students or employees, the issue is that the university chose to hide the attack. The email also stated that the police interviewed the male party involved in the incident. The police added that the male has cooperated fully with the police. In the email to students, the university has assured that recent attack is nothing to be concerned about, and that the safety of students and faculty are top priority. While that statement sounds great in theory, the issue is that students feel like they have been left in the dark about the event. The university should not, under any circumstances, have left this event undisclosed. It is nothing short of a betrayal of trust and confidence in the schools ability and intentions to keep its students and faculty safe. The Railway Board has decided to wind up the ambitious Rs 5,000-crore One ICT plan and the transformation cell Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com Railway Minister Piyush Goyal is changing the tracks set by his predecessor, Suresh Prabhu. After overhauling the Rs 1-lakh crore station redevelopment plan, Goyal has now spiked two pet schemes and directorates set up by his predecessor. The Railway Board has decided to wind up the ambitious Rs 5,000-crore One ICT (information, communication and technology) plan and the transformation cell. Prabhu had set up four directorates during his tenure as the railway minister - mobility, non-fare revenue, One ICT and the transformation cell. The One ICT directorate was created to set up an integrated software that would have brought various functions of the railways - such as passenger reservation, movement of goods trains, asset management and the entire functional requirements of the national transporter - under one roof. The transformation cell directorate was mandated with the implementation of 55 new ideas that had originated at the Rail Vikas Shivir, held in November last year, where rail employees shared their visionary ideas in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The railway board has decided to shut ICT and merge the transformation cell with mobility, confirmed a railway official. Officials said the new minister was of the opinion that these areas were already being covered by other directorates, including non-fare revenue and mobility, and there was no requirement for a separate department. Prabhu had set up the ICT directorate with a view that an organisation like the railways, which posted a revenue of Rs 1,65,068 crore in 2016-17, should spend a considerable amount of money on information, communication and technology. The railway information technology expenditure was only Rs 336 crore in 2016-17, which was scaled up to Rs 513 crore in the 2017-18. The Rs 5,000-crore One ICT software was supposed to be implemented over five years using digital technology. It was to ensure better connectivity of goods and services with the market and efficient internal management to ensure customer satisfaction. Revamping the railways, Goyal had earlier decided to cancel the bidding process for 23 stations for redevelopment owing to tepid interest shown by construction companies. He had also wound up the Swiss challenge mode for redevelopment (under which a public authority asks for a bid, and publishes it for third parties to match or top it), which was mooted by Prabhu. Such changes in policies are normal when there is a change in government. But railway officials are experiencing this situation for the first time when only the minister has been changed. For Goyal, the priority is implementation of schemes in a quick pace. He is giving additional emphasis on renewal of tracks and safety and has instructed the Railway Board to allot the required money for each division in this regard, said another official. Experts say one in every four mental health problems is due to depression and anxiety at the workplace. The theme for this years World Mental Health Day on October 10 was: Mental health in the workplace. Its an apt theme as workplaces are changing dramatically and goalposts are shifting almost every month. And, its also a reminder to company managements about the importance of going beyond the optics to move towards a happier workplace. It makes economic sense, too: While 40 per cent of job turnover is due to stress, the health costs may be much more than anyone thought. After all, extensive research done by some of the worlds best institutes have found that workplace stress can be as toxic to the body as second-hand smoke. Unfortunately, the common response from companies and employees to workplace-induced mental health problem is that it is a normal part of work; everybody experiences it, so they just have to bear it or get over it. But this is a wrong approach. A survey of about 15,000 middle-level and senior-level executives in nearly 100 corporations revealed that the Indian executive is paying a heavy price for life in the fast lane. As against the international cardiac risk status of 48 per cent, Indian executives cardiac risk rate is nearly 60 per cent. Theres more. PERC, a Hong Kong-based consultancy firm, found stress levels in Asia are on the rise and India is rated over 6 on a 10-point rating scale. Consultants say anxiety levels are set to dramatically increase with spreading globalisation and the economic costs for business will be massive. Experts say one in every four mental health problems is due to depression and anxiety at the workplace. It isnt India alone. Globally, more than 300 million people suffer from depression, the leading cause of disability, with many of these people also suffering from symptoms of anxiety. A recent World Health Organization-led study estimates that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy $1 trillion each year in lost productivity. Workplaces that promote mental health and support people with mental disorders are more likely to reduce absenteeism, increase productivity and benefit from associated economic gains. The problem of mental health, of course, goes much beyond the workplace. Consider this: The MINDS Foundation has done a study on mental health in India, the conclusions of which are disturbing. It says India has the highest suicide rate in the world among the youth 35.5 per 100,000 people and quotes the National Crime Records Bureau 2015 as saying that every hour one student commits suicide. The study also says women are four times more likely than men to attempt suicide, while men are twice more likely than women to commit suicide. The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences has estimated that 13.7 per cent of the Indian population above the age of 18 suffers from mental morbidity, requiring active intervention. It also suggests that one in every 20 Indians suffers from depression and nearly one per cent of Indians suffer from high suicidal risks. There is more: Almost 9.8 million children in the age group of 13 to 17 have mental health concerns and require active intervention. What is unfortunate is that the country in general seems to be lacking substantial understanding of the matter. The treatment gap for mental disorders ranges from 28 per cent to 83 per cent and nearly 80 per cent of mental illness patients have not received treatment despite the presence of illness for more than a year, Nimhans said. The situation is worse in rural areas where schizophrenia and bipolar disorders are often believed to be cases of possession by evil spirits. So in almost 90 per cent of the cases of severe mental disorders, the first approach is still a faith healer. The burden of depression is thus huge. Although there are known, effective treatments for depression, few receive such treatments. The barriers to effective care include lack of insurance cover for people with mental disorders, dearth of trained health care providers (India has less than 4,000 psychiatrists to treat its mentally ill people). A stress-free environment or a country where mental health problems do not exist is not realistically or economically achievable. But awareness is abysmal in countries such as India and there is a need for targeted programmes to reduce the social stigma attached to mental disorders. GMR-led Delhi Airport had accepted the governments request to shift UDAN flights to Hindon Air Force Base, but airlines say poor last mile connectivity will have to be dealt with first before starting operations Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com The governments plan of using Hindon Air Force base as an alternative for Delhi airport is facing a hurdle with new airlines refusing to operate from there citing competitive disadvantage. This has put the success of governments ambitious Regional Connectivity Scheme under scanner as Air Deccan and Air Odisha - the two new airlines have got more than 80 routes are yet to start operations. The two new operators have sought permission for at least 16 movements of their planes from the Delhi airport, but has received only four slots. For the rest of the slots, we have been asked to consider Hindon Air Force Base, but this will not work for us as operating from Hindon will defeat the entire purpose of seamless connectivity, we have expressed our reservation to the government, said a senior Air Deccan official. Poor last mile connectivity between Delhi and Hindon, air force's own operational requirements (which can limit civilian flights) is the issue which the airlines say will have to be dealt with first before starting operations. You cannot expect a passenger to take a regional flight to Hindon, then travel an hour in a cab to catch his next flight which will be from Delhi airport, it will defeat the entire purpose of Udan of building seamless air connectivity with hinterland India, said the Air Deccan official which said it will participate in the second round of bidding process. The multi-modal connectivity through a fast mode of transport has to be developed first, he adds. GMR-led Delhi Airport had accepted the governments request to shift UDAN flights to Hindon Air Force Base. According to the arrangement, the airport operator will decide which flights are to be shifted to Hindon. In this arrangement lies the problem, GMR will give slots to established airlines as they will earn landing charges from them but since the UDAN flights do not attract any landing charges those have been asked to move to Hindon, the official said. Our aircraft are ready, we have got all necessary approvals for air worthiness, its only the availability of slots which is proving to be a hindrance to start operations, he added. Delhi Airport is the hub of domestic operations in the country and growth of operations over the years has seen its capacity severely constrained. Delhi airport sees over 1200 flights daily and its three runways can handle 67 aircraft movements per hour. While the terminal expansion is facing delays, the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has expressed inability to allow more flights due to runway capacity constraints. Due to the impasse over the availability of slots, most of the routes under Udan are yet to open leading to a question mark over the schemes success. Experts said that Hindon base is definitely not a viable alternative over a major airport for airlines. Opening of Hindon air base for passenger flights face challenges due to surface access, the higher prospect of bird strikes and splitting airline resources at yet another location, aviation consultancy CAPA warned in a recent report. CAPA has warned of serious capacity challenges for Indian airports as domestic airlines are expected to induct 350-400 planes over the next five years. Airlines are already facing challenges securing overnight parking bays. This will become increasingly difficult with so many aircraft scheduled for induction over the next five years. As metro airports become saturated airlines will have to deploy more capacity to tier II cities over the next three years, CAPA said Its governing allies are not happy on the economy and complain of ignored concerns but find themselves unable to be assertive. Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent address to company secretaries on the economy had beamed a mixed message to his Bharatiya Janata Partys allies. The ruling National Democratic Alliances constituents didnt find much to cheer, feeling Modi had not touched on their fundamental concerns, while he sought to appropriate the ethical space by emphasising the Centres combat corruption agenda. To make the point, an NDA leader, who wished to remain anonymous, recalled a knockout punch delivered by a Democratic presidential candidate during the 1984 US primaries. He asked Wheres the beef? when his opponent claimed during a debate of being full of new ideas. Walter Mondale had reprised a line from a TV commercial for Wendys fast food, in which an old woman wondered if her burger had anything inside. A guy who has to vote and is starving is not going to think if a governments corruption-free. Its not a kosher word but wheres the beef? The guy will be concerned about his immediate problems, the leader said. In step with worries over decelerated economic growth, slipping industrial production and job cuts, the NDAs principal entities have become a bit impatient at the Centres refusal to engage with them on macro economics. They also feel helpless. Barring the Shiv Sena that indefatigably attacks the Centre, regardless of whether its heard, the others are wondering if they count in the political scheme. The sense of togetherness in Atal Bihari Vajpayees time is missing, said an MP from the Telugu Desam. Unlike that previous coalition that had featured a coordination committee helmed by an alliance leader, he said, the BJP has not set up a consultative mechanism this time. Theres no George Fernandes in the NDA, rued a Janata Dal-United leader, remembering that the legendary socialist was as compelling as Vajpayee and L K Advani in NDA-I. A functionary of Ram Vilas Paswans Lok Janshakti Party says the allies are irrelevant, as the BJP commands an independent majority in the Lok Sabha. He said in the NDA meetings he attended, BJP representatives avoid discussing economic issues. Whenever an ally raised something, they moved to another subject. They are willing to talk about issues like Aligarh Muslim Universitys minority status or a common civil code but the economys a no-no, he disclosed. The allies disquiet arises as much from the new goods and services tax regime as the state of the information technology industry and the micro, small and medium enterprises, as well as agrarian distress. If we have to offset GSTs negatives, we have to incentivise labour-intensive exports and stop exporting our taxes. How is an exporter to get his taxes reimbursed? If this continues, our exports will become non-competitive, a leader rued. The last GST Council meeting, however, provided some relief to exporters by asking officials to process their refund cheques for July from October 10, and for those for August from October. Rammohan Naidu, the Lok Sabha member from Srikakulam and TDP general secretary, felt after demonetisation and the GST rollout, the Centre should focus only on facilitating ease of business for MSMEs. The large industries have adjusted. The MSMEs that are part of Andhra Pradeshs new rural economy are fumbling. They have old methods of doing business, he said. Sanjay Raut, a Rajya Sabha member and the Senas spokesperson, spoke of job losses in Punes IT sector as the biggest problem. Maharashtra has borne the brunt of the economic decline. The IT job cuts have had a ripple effect on other areas, he said. Over three years into the Modi government, the allies realise their scope to leverage their numbers in Parliament vis-a-vis the BJP is seriously limited. A reason why the idea of banding into a pressure group has not occurred. The Shiromani Akali Dal and the TDP have a working relationship, courtesy Rajya Sabha members Naresh Gujral and Y S Chowdary, respectively, but the rest work solo, when they have to. The Akalis, their clout vastly diminished after losing Punjab, hope Gujrals nomination as chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on commerce will foreground their GST anxieties. C M Ramesh, Rajya Sabha member and TDP vice president, admits Andhra Pradeshs post-bifurcation bellyaches and the Centres vacillations have blunted his partys assertiveness in earlier national coalitions. Our priorities are ensuring full employment, making AP power-surplus, reopening small industries, plugging leakages and focusing on agriculture and aquaculture. Macro economics is secondary because we need all the help the Centre can provide, he said. The JD-U, newest NDA entrant, is preoccupied with rationalising its truce with the BJP to agonise over economics. We are part of a coalition, we have a perspective on GST and demonetisation, we supported these moves and we do not seek consultations, stated Rajya Sabha member Bashistha Narain Singh. That has left the Shiv Sena as a voice in the wilderness, determined to shout but also adamant to remain in the NDA. Raut said his party was one of the founders of the coalition and NDA is not anyones property. Image: A file photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Union ministers Arun Jaitley, Rajnath Singh and M Venkaiah Naidu (who was subsequently elected at the Vice President). Aadhaar-related schemes and the Aadhaar Act exist on the assumption that Right to Privacy is not a Fundamental Right. The SC's verdict has totally demolished this flawed assumption, says Dr Gopal Krishna. The fourth in a 7-part series. Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com. Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, had written in 1787 that 'if once people become inattentive to the public affairs, you and I, Congress and assemblies, judges and governors shall become wolves'. In the concluding paragraph of his 122-page-long order as part of the landmark verdict of the nine-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme on Right to Privacy, Justice R F Nariman wrote, 'This reference is answered by stating that the inalienable Fundamental Right to Privacy resides in Article 21 and other fundamental freedoms contained in Part III of the Constitution of India'. In the opening paragraph of his order, Justice Nariman states, 'A three-judge bench of this court was dealing with a scheme propounded by the government of India popularly known as the Aadhaar card scheme. Under the said scheme, the government of India collects and compiles both demographic and biometric data of the residents of this country to be used for various purposes. 'One of the grounds of attack on the said scheme is that the very collection of such data is violative of the 'Right to Privacy'. Aadhaar scheme refers to the 21st century version of Panopticon called Central Identities Data Repository of Unique Identification (UID)/Aadhaar numbers which is an automatic identification and surveillance project.' Justice Nariman recalled the decision in the Peter Semayne v Richard Gresham (1604) in the United Kingdom to underline that 'every man's home is his castle and fortress for his defence against injury and violence, as well as for his repose'. Part 1: Right to Privacy and the Bhagavad Gita Part 2: How Aadhaar promotes a digital caste system Part 3: Aadhaar is against Arthashastra, Hadith and Bible His cited decision of William Pitt, the Elder which reads: 'The poorest man may in his cottage bid defiance to all the force of the Crown. It may be frail, its roof may shake, the wind may blow through it, the storm may enter, the rain may enter, but the King of England cannot enter, all his force dare not cross the threshold of the ruined tenement.' If they are not allowed by the Constitution to enter even the huts of Indians, how can they or their government be allowed to intrude into their body through biometric identification based on 'biometric information', meaning photograph, finger-prints, iris scan, or such other biological attributes' as per Section 2 (g) of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016? All the concerned 'individuals clothed with the powers of the State' are accountable for their acts of omission and commission and in the court of present and future generations in their life time. Justice Nariman records the argument of Attorney General K K Venugopal wherein he submitted that 'between the right to life and the right to personal liberty, the former has primacy and any claim to privacy which would destroy or erode this basic foundational right can never be elevated to the status of a Fundamental Right'. Having done so, he observes, 'We do not find any conflict between the Right to Life and the Right to Personal LibertyThe Right to Personal Liberty being an extension of the Right to Life.' Justice Nariman wrote, 'We see no antipathy whatsoever between the rich and the poor in this context. It seems to us that this argument is made through the prism of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, by which the Aadhaar card is the means to see that various beneficial schemes of the government filter down to persons for whom such schemes are intended.' He rejects the attorney general's argument, observing that 'the Right to Privacy would be found, inter alia, in Article 21 in both 'life' and 'personal liberty' by rich and poor alike primarily against state action'. The contentions of the state of Gujarat saying 'if information is already in the public domain and has been parted with, there is no privacy right' had also been debunked. It is quite sad and unbecoming of the state government to have attempted to mislead the court by bringing an outdated test of 'reasonable expectation of privacy' from United States Supreme Court. Justice Nariman's order notes that this submission draws from the judgment in Katz v United States (1967) and Miller v United States (1976), which are outdated because US Congress enacted Right to Financial Privacy Act, 1978 to neutralise it, nipping an alarming tendency of attaching privacy in relation to property and not to the person. The Gujarat government failed to inform the court that in Minnesota v Carter (1998), the US Supreme Court found the Katz test 'notoriously unhelpful test'. Justice Scalia criticised the application of this test saying, 'In my view, the only thing the past three decades have established about the Katz test (which has come to mean the test enunciated by Justice Harlan's separate concurrence in Katz case) is that, unsurprisingly, those 'actual (subjective) expectation[s] of privacy that society is prepared to recognise as reasonable', bear an uncanny resemblance to those expectations of privacy that this court considers reasonable.' 'This self-indulgent test provision does not guarantee some generalised 'right of privacy' and leave it to this court to determine which particular manifestations of the value of privacy 'society is prepared to recognise as 'reasonable',' he said. Our Supreme Court has referred to criticism of the proposition that if there is voluntary parting of information there is no Right to Privacy in District Registrar & Collector, Hyderabad v Canara Bank (2005) with approval. Justice Nariman recalls the significance of the dissenting judgment by Justice Louis Brandeis in Olmstead v United States (1928). Justice Brandeis held that 'in the application of a constitution, our contemplation cannot be only of what has been but of what may be'. The original Bench is now seized with the CIDR-related petitions and is likely to hear them in the first week of November The court must step in before the neglected spark of biometric identification burns the house. 'The progress of science in furnishing the government with means of espionage is not likely to stop with wiretapping. Ways may someday be developed by which the government, without removing papers from secret drawers, can reproduce them in court, and by which it will be enabled to expose to a jury the most intimate occurrences of the home. Advances in the psychic and related sciences may bring means of exploring unexpressed beliefs, thoughts and emotions,' Justice Louis Brandeis had said. His view was held as the correct view of the law in 1967. Citing James Otis, a late 18th century jurist, Justice Brandeis cautioned against placing 'the liberty of every man in the hands of every petty officer' even in the face of much lesser intrusions than wiretapping. Such intrusions are 'subversive of all the comforts of society' in the words of Lord Camden, Chief Justice of the King's Bench in early 18th century. It emerges that the Right to Privacy which is part of the Right to Life and Liberty cannot be placed in the hands of officers of Unique Identification Authority of India, ministry of electronics and information technology and related ministries. It cannot be contended that the Indian Constitution does not afford protection against such invasions of individual security through CIDR based mass surveillance. Justice Nariman's order recalled the seminal judgment of Justice K K Mathew in Gobind v State of Madhya Pradesh (1975) wherein he observed, 'Time works changes and brings into existence new conditions. Subtler and far reaching means of invading privacy will make it possible to be heard in the street what is whispered in the closet.' He added, 'Of course, privacy primarily concerns the individuals. It therefore relates to and overlaps with the concept of liberty.' In the context, of CIDR of Aadhaar numbers violation of privacy primarily concerns the personal sensitive information of the whole nation comprising of present and future generation of citizens including present and future soldiers, Presidents, prime ministers, national security advisors, chief ministers, legislators, security officials and judges. Therefore, it is deeply connected with national security. The attorney general and additional solicitor general, in particular, argued that given the fact that 'our statutes are replete with a recognition of the Right to Privacy' there is no need to recognise it as a Fundamental Right. Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta cited 'provisions of the Right to Information Act, 2005, the Indian Easements Act, 1882, the Indian Penal Code, 1860, the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Bankers Books Evidence Act, 1891, the Credit Information Companies (Regulation) Act, 2005, the Public Financial Institutions (Obligation as to Fidelity and Secrecy) Act, 1983, the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, the Income Tax Act, 1961, the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, the Census Act, 1948, the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 and the Information Technology Act, 2000' to contend that since these statutes already protect the privacy rights of individuals, it is unnecessary to read a Fundamental Right of Privacy into Part III of the Constitution. Justice Nariman rejected their argument saying, 'Statutory law can be made and also unmade by a simple parliamentary majority. In short, the ruling party can, at will, do away with any or all of the protections contained in the statutes mentioned hereinabove. 'Fundamental Rights, on the other hand, are contained in the Constitution so that there would be rights that the citizens of this country may enjoy despite the governments that they may elect.' The observations of Justice Nariman, Dr Ambekar and Jefferson assume great significance because Aadhaar Act 2016 imposes burdens on present and future generations and makes absolute the right to have Fundamental Rights subject to biometric identification. He observed, 'The recognition of such right in the Fundamental Rights chapter of the Constitution is only a recognition that such right exists notwithstanding the shifting sands of majority governments.' According to him, in the Indian context, a Fundamental Right to Privacy would cover at least three aspects, namely: Privacy that involves the person, ie when there is some invasion by the state of a persons rights relatable to his physical body, such as the right to move freely; Informational privacy which does not deal with a person's body but deals with a person's mind, and therefore, recognises that an individual may have control over the dissemination of material that is personal to him. Unauthorised use of such information may, therefore lead to infringement of this right.' And, lastly, 'the privacy of choice, which protects an individuals autonomy over fundamental personal choices'. He cites John Stuart Mill's thesis On Liberty (1859) saying, 'In the part which merely concerns himself, his independence is, of right, absolute. Over himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is sovereign.' Mill's cited observation contends that the appropriate region of human liberty comprises, the inward domain of consciousness; demanding liberty of conscience in the most comprehensive sense; liberty of thought and feeling; absolute freedom of opinion and sentiment on all subjects, practical or speculative, scientific, moral, or theological. Despite citing Mill's thesis that underlines the existence of individuals' 'absolute freedom' and 'his independence is, of right, absolute', Justice Nariman observes, 'But this is not to say that such a right is absolute.' He may have to revisit this proposition in the light of the authorities he has cited and his own decisions. Justice Nariman overruled the majority judgment in Additional District Magistrate, Jabalpur v Shivkant Shukla (1976) -- wherein a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court 'arrived at the conclusion (by majority) that Article 21 is the sole repository of all rights to life and personal liberty, and, when suspended, takes away those rights altogether' -- citing previous verdict and Seervai's Constitutional Law of India. In the ADM Jabalpur case, the majority comprised of then Chief Justice A N Ray and Justices Mirza Hameedullah Beg, Y V Chandrachud and P N Bhagwati, and Justice H R Khanna was in minority. Justice Nariman records that 'the majority opinion was done away with by the Constitutions 44th Amendment two years after the judgment was delivered'. 'By that Amendment, Article 359 was amended to state that where a proclamation of emergency is in operation, the President may by order declare that the right to move any court for the enforcement of rights conferred by Part III of the Constitution may remain suspended for the period during which such proclamation is in force, excepting Articles 20 and 21,' he said. Taking cognisance of the constitutional amendment, he observes, 'On this score also, it is clear that the right of privacy is an inalienable human right which inheres in every person by virtue of the fact that he or she is a human being.' In the ADM Jabalpur case, the majority held that: 'Liberty is confined and controlled by law, whether common law or statute. It is in the words of (Edmund) Burke a regulated freedom. It is not an abstract or absolute freedom' incorrectly assuming that Constitution was the sole repository of the right to life and liberty. Given the fact that this verdict has been overruled, how can it be inferred that the Right to Privacy, as part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty, is not an absolute right? Mills thesis and Justice Narimans observations reminds one of what Dr B R Ambedkar had said in his last address to India's Constituent Assembly on November 25, 1949. Dr Ambedkar said, "I do not say that Fundamental Rights can never be absolute and the limitations set upon them can never be lifted." He recalled the words of Thomas Jefferson, saying, "We may consider each generation as a distinct nation, with a right, by the will of the majority, to bind themselves, but none to bind the succeeding generation, more than the inhabitants of another country." Citing Jefferson, Ambedkar contended that the 'State cannot make laws and impose burdens on future generations, which they will have no right to alter; in fine, that the earth belongs to the dead and not the living'. It emerges that the Aadhaar case is deeply linked with the verdict in the ADM Jabalpur case and the Constitution's 44th Amendment, because the CIDR entails linking Aadhaar number with essential services and citizens' entitlements, benefits and services, making the right to have rights, including right to life and personal liberty, dependent on biometric data. As per Section 2(R) of the Aadhaar Act 2016 'records of entitlement' means records of benefits, subsidies or services provided to, or availed by, any individual under any programme. As per Section 2(f) of the Act 'benefit' means any advantage, gift, reward, relief, or payment, in cash or kind, provided to an individual or a group of individuals. As per its Section 2(w) 'service' means any provision, facility, utility or any other assistance provided in any form to an individual or a group of individuals. As per Section 2(x) 'subsidy' means any form of aid, support, grant, subvention, or appropriation, in cash or kind, to an individual or a group of individuals. It emerges that the Right to Privacy which is part of the Right to Life and Liberty cannot be placed in the hands of officers of Unique Identification Authority of India, ministry of electronics and information technology and related ministries. If these provisions are read with Section 23(2)(g), it is clear that powers and functions of Unique Identification Authority of India and ministry of electronics and information technology includes the power of 'omitting and deactivating of an Aadhaar number and information relating thereto in such manner as may be specified by regulations' through subordinate legislation as and when they deem it appropriate. It means that the Aadhaar Act is worse than the overruled verdict in ADM Jabalpur case because it has empowered the central government to cause civil death of anyone it does not like and has deprived citizens the right to compliant as was done by ADM Jabalpur in pursuance of the Presidential Order dated June 27, 1975 under Article 359(1). As per Section 47 (1) of the Aadhaar Act, 'No court shall take cognisance of any offence punishable under this Act, save on a complaint made by the Authority or any officer or person authorised by it.' This takes away the right of the 'residents' and citizens to move any court for the enforcement of the rights conferred by Articles 14, 21 and 22 of the Constitution. Aadhaar Act turns every 'resident' and citizen of India into guinea pigs in the laboratory of foreign biometric technology companies by empowering the UIDAI for 'promoting research and development for advancement in biometrics and related areas, including usage of Aadhaar numbers through appropriate mechanisms'. Against such a backdrop, the observations of Justice Nariman, Dr Ambekar and Jefferson assume great significance because Aadhaar Act 2016 imposes burdens on present and future generations and makes absolute the right to have Fundamental Rights subject to biometric identification. In fact, Aadhaar-related schemes and the Aadhaar Act exist on the assumption that Right to Privacy is not a Fundamental Right. The court's verdict has totally demolished this flawed assumption. Dr Ambekar cites Mill to caution 'all who are interested in the maintenance of democracy', not 'to lay their liberties at the feet of even a great man, or to trust him with powers which enable him to subvert their institutions'. It is an argument which is relevant because it is evident that gullible citizens are being made to 'lay their liberties at the feet of' the owners of a great database of Aadhaar numbers. The court must step in before the neglected spark of biometric identification burns the house. In his order Justice Nariman has recorded how the A-G ended up contending that 'the Right to Privacy cannot be claimed when most of the aspects which are sought to be protected by such right are already in the public domain and the information in question has already been parted with by citizens', for advancing the argument that collection of personal sensitive information like biometric data for the CIDR is a non-issue. The order also records the uncivil act of Centre for Civil Society, an NGO, in contending that the Right to Privacy 'ought not to be elevated in all its aspects to the level of a Fundamental Right' for posterity. Notably, Venugopal had represented this NGO in this very case on an earlier occasion before becoming the A-G. He has also recorded that states of Kerala, Karnataka, West Bengal, Punjab and Puducherry broadly supported the petitioners who were seeking scrapping of Aadhaar because it violates Right to Privacy. Justice Nariman concludes his order saying, 'The later judgments of this court recognising privacy as a Fundamental Right do not need to be revisited. These cases are, therefore, sent back for adjudication on merits to the original bench of three honourable judges of this court in light of the judgment just delivered by us.' The original Bench is now seized with the CIDR-related petitions and is likely to hear them in the first week of November. It must be remembered that the first petition against the CIDR project was filed on October 18, 2012, after almost two years of the launch of the project. Subsequently, over two dozen cases are pending in the Supreme Court seeking scrapping of the Aadhaar Act and the CIDR scheme for the last five years. Rarely does it happen that public institutions do not pretend to be surprised in situations where 'Fundamental Rights' of citizens go to the dogs 'on account of some ill-conceived' delay in judgments. The verdict in the reference case of Right of Privacy in the CIDR matter reveals that our judges have not become wolves because at least some people and few lawyers remain attentive to the public affairs. This decision follows the footprints of stalwarts like Justice Louis Brandeis, Justice Radhabinod Pal, Justice Fazl Ali, Justice Subba Rao, Justice Jagmohan Lal Sinha and Justice H R Khanna. Academia and citizenry does not hold similar opinion about those who gave verdicts in Union Carbide Corporation v Union of India and in ADM Jabalpur v Shivkant Shukla cases. When a list of good and not so good judges will be prepared, their names will feature prominently. Their own questionable verdicts have emerged as an exercise in self-indictment. Post retirement statements of self pity will be of no help. All the concerned 'individuals clothed with the powers of the State' are accountable for their acts of omission and commission and in the court of present and future generations in their life time. All the judges who adjudicate on issues of life and death remain judges only till the time they deliver their judgment. After their decision, it is they and their verdict which remains under scrutiny. They get the opportunity to adjudicate once but they and their decisions are judged forever. Dr Gopal Krishna is a public policy and law researcher, convener, Citizens Forum for Civil Liberties and editor of www.toxicswatch.org He had appeared before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance that examined and trashed the Aadhaar Bill, 2010, which was reshaped and introduced in Rajya Sabha where it remained pending till March 3, 2016. It was then withdrawn and supposedly a new Bill was introduced as a Money Bill and got enacted act Aadhaar Act 2016 amidst vociferous objection by the Rajya Sabha. It faces a constitutional challenge before the Supreme Court's original three-judge bench. 'At the previous 18th party congress, Xi vowed to protect China's 'core' interests.' 'As a result, India faced a barrage of serious incidents on the borders with China -- at Depsang, Chumar, Pangong Tso and Doklam.' 'New Delhi will watch closely the political signals emanating from Beijing this week,' says China expert Srikanth Kondapalli. IMAGE: Xi Jinping, general secretary of China's Communist party and China's president, accompanied by Premier Li Keqiang and other leaders, attend a ceremony at the Monument to the People's Heroes at Tiananmen Square, ahead of National Day marking the 68th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in Beijing, September 30, 2017. Photograph: Jason Lee/Reuters 2,000-odd representatives of China's ruling Communist Party will meet for the 19th time in Beijing from Wednesday, October 18. Drawn from nearly 90 million cadres, the meeting decides the Communist party leadership and China's direction for the next five years. 5 out of the 7 apex and decisive Politburo Standing Committee members are expected to retire following their reaching the retirement age. President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang will not only get an extension for another five years, but Xi will consolidate further his position at par with Mao Zedong's stature in the Communist party hierarchy. Xi is president of the Chinese state, general secretary of the Communist party, chairman of the all-powerful Central Military Commission and national security commission. He also recently donned the hats of head of the comprehensively deepening reform committees and commander of the armed forces. Xi also nudged the party to accept 'Xi Jinping Thought' to be inscribed in the Communist party constitution, elevating his political ideas at par with the founding fathers of the party. Unprecedentedly, Xi got his publications on governance and poverty alleviation quite early in his tenure unlike his predecessors. There is also the spillover effect of the churning at the party congress. Many of Xi's followers are expected to make it to the 25-member Politburo, with some making it to the Politburo Standing Committee as well. The political stock of those who are close to Xi or served with him in Fujian and Zhejiang provinces in the 1990s like Chen Miner, Li Hongzhang, Li Zhanshu, Liu Qibao, Cai Qi, Han Zhang, Li Shulei and others is increasing. Every Chinese leader brought his own team -- some with brazenness, some through a political testing process. Mao announced Lin Biao as his successor in the 1950s although Hua Guofeng succeeded Mao after his death in September 1976. Deng Xiaoping announced liubashi jihua (cadres born in the 1960s and who worked up the political ladder in the 1980s). Xi appears to emphasise personal loyalty in addition to efficiency among his possible successors. The Chinese Communist Party is convening at a time when both domestic and international factors provide several challenges and opportunities for China. If the new leadership can overcome these challenges, China's goal of successfully observing 'two centennials' -- that of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist party in 2021 and that of the People's Republic in 2049 -- could become a reality. Essentially, this means putting China at the highest pedestal in the global power structure. Nevertheless, the domestic and external challenges are by no means surmountable in a jiffy. Firstly, the Communist Party congress comes at a time when for the first time China's economic juggernaut has begun moving slowly -- under 7 percent a year is the officially estimated figure although others suggest it as low as 2.8 percent. While China maintained nearly 10 percent growth rate till about 2010, these figures are dwindling given declining exports due to the global financial crisis of 2007, rise in GDP to debt ratio at nearly 300 percent, over investments in the real estate sector, agricultural stagnation, and others. Secondly, the economic slowdown has a direct impact on rising public discontent. For every one percent decline in China's growth rate, it was estimated China's factories will throw out 20 million workers. Indeed, after Egypt and India, China figures high in the global list of public protests. According to surveys in China, much of the public discontent is aimed against the government's rolling back of social welfare benefits. Thirdly, there has been an unprecedented rise in unrest by the 'national minorities', specifically by the Uighurs in the western region of Xinjiang. In 2013, Xi initiated the national security commission precisely to address domestic challenges including ethnic unrest across the country. Nevertheless, political violence has increased substantially. It was also reported that over 5,000 Uighurs joined Islamic State in northeastern Syria recently with the mission of taking jihad to Xinjiang. Besides, China's intransigent position on over 150 self-immolation deaths in Tibet is taking a heavy toll on the country's soft power. Fourthly, the 'new' political dispensation in Beijing will be watched carefully in terms of the forays that China has been making recently in the international domain. While China's expansion globally provides scope for enhancing the country's footprint at a time when US President Donald J Trump is following certain 'isolationist' policies, these could lead to a premature 'imperial overstretch' costing China its rise. While Xi underlined 'accomplish something' -- unlike Deng's 'keep a low profile' -- domestic and external opposition to China's rise continuous in the international domain needs to be watched. For India, the Chinese Communist Party congress comes at a time when the Doklam standoff at the trijunction with Bhutan was resolved by mutually disengaging troops in the area. At the previous 18th party congress, Xi vowed to protect China's 'core' interests, even giving up 'developmental' interests. As a result, India faced a barrage of serious incidents on the borders with China -- at Depsang, Chumar, Pangong Tso and Doklam. India will watch closely the political signals emanating from Beijing this week. Srikanth Kondapalli is Professor in Chinese Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University. 'Secularism is associated either with corruption, malgovernance or minority votes.' 'That allows the BJP to construct its own majority vote.' 'It will remain a feature of electoral contests, but it is not the only reason for the BJP's success.' IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi at the Gujarat Gaurav Mahasammelan in Ahmedabad, October 16, 2017. Photograph: PTI Photo Is the Bharatiya Janata Party juggernaut slowing down? Soon after the Bharatiya Janata Party's drubbing in the Nanded civic elections in Maharashtra, its candidate was routed by an almost 200,000 vote margin in the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha by-election, a seat that Bollywood star Vinod Khanna had retained for it in four elections. The timing is crucial. By the year-end the BJP faces two assembly elections, in Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat, where it will be locked in a straight electoral battle with the Congress party. 2018 will see a clutch of state elections, including in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, where the BJP seems entrenched, but not unbeatable. Is the BJP facing a blip in its fortunes? How does its electoral machinery overcome reverses? Is the party over-dependent on its mascot, Prime Minister Narendra D Modi, for its amazing electoral run? Does it have a second line of leadership? Hindustan Times journalist Prashant Jha, who recently wrote the book How the BJP Wins, Inside India's Greatest Election Machine, answers these and other questions in an interview with Rediff.com's Syed Firdaus Ashraf. Why did you decide to write a book on this subject? I covered the 2014 (Lok Sabha) elections and the Bihar assembly elections of 2015. I spent a lot of time on the ground again in 2016-2017 for the UP (Uttar Pradesh) assembly elections. In UP, while I could anticipate that the BJP had an edge and they may win, I could not predict the scale of the victory. When I came back I thought of what was it that led them to this kind of victory. And I recalled what (then President) Pranab Mukherjee told me once in a conversation: 'You can understand an election only after the election is over.' I thought that was a simple but profound statement and that it was a good time to look back at the victory of the BJP and why the elections had this outcome. It was also a good moment to reflect on why the BJP is the dominant political force in India. If they are seen as not delivering on this promise of creating a better life for the young in India or creating jobs, then they are going to face political trouble. Post-2009, if you remember many people had written off the BJP. They had lost two consecutive Lok Sabha elections. Even in 2013, very few people would have given them a chance (of winning an outright majority in the 2014 general election). Today, they also have control of most Indian states on their own or with their allies, besides the Centre. So the idea was to understand how the BJP had succeeded democratically in becoming the dominant political party in India. That led to this project. Akhilesh Yadav told Rediff.com in an interview that Narendra Modi is a master in lying. Many opponents accuse Modi of contradictory facts and statistics. Why don't Indian voters see or heed this? I think it is too simplistic to say that PM Modi lies and therefore he wins (elections). Every politician uses every tool at his disposal. Every politician uses lies. Every politician mobilises people to win elections and does what he can to win it. Just to say, 'Oh! PM Modi lies and therefore Indians vote for him' is an insult to the electorate. There are a complex set of factors that have led people to vote for the BJP. Of course, Modi's image is the central factor in some ways which explains the BJP's appeal. What is striking is that PM Modi's base has extended. If you look at the 2014 CSDS (Centre for the Study of Developing Societies) data, it shows that he had the support of the upper middle class, the middle class and in descending order the lower middle class and the poor. 2015 was a terrible year for the PM as he lost the Delhi elections and later the Bihar elections. This was the year when (Congress vice-president) Rahul Gandhi made the 'Suit Boot Ki Sarkar' jibe. What we see after that is there was a conscious attempt by Modi to reinvent his image through the narrative of demonetisation. Of course, the reality of demonetisation and its economic effects may have been adverse. But through the narrative of the note ban, Modi showed himself to be on the side of the honest poor battling the corrupt rich. The government also focused on sharper welfare delivery through schemes like the Ujwala scheme, Jan Dhan or toilets. What we saw therefore was a deliberate attempt from him to reposition his image as a leader of poor or garibon ka neta. The Opposition can just dismiss it as a lie and have contempt for the people who vote a certain way. I think it would be far more useful for Akhilesh Yadav or the Opposition parties to understand where Modi's strength is coming from and why people get attracted to him rather than say 'Modi is lying'. There are many failures of the Modi government -- not creating jobs, weakening of the economy etc. But whenever anybody speaks to his supporters on those issues, they feel there is a game plan to defame him by raising such issues. I hold no brief for Modi supporters. You have a point when you point to the governance deficit of the Modi government. It is quite clear that the high expectations that had been generated have not been met. Over the past few weeks, the narrative that jobs are not being created has gained even stronger credence. This is something for the Modi government to worry about and it is something they have to think more about as elections are coming up. If they are seen as not delivering on this promise of creating a better life for the young in India or creating jobs, then they are going to face political trouble. As I said, this book is not arguing whatever Modi does is right. Neither does it suggest Modi is invincible. He has created a multi-class alliance and the challenge for him is to retain that support of upper middle class, middle class and poor. That can only happen through better governance, economic growth and welfare distribution. That is going to be a challenge for Modi. There is indeed a lot of authority vested in Modi and Amit Shah who are in control. But I think there is also a generation of leaders who are being created post-Modi. If growth figures are going to continue to dip and if he is not able to create jobs, then it will be a challenge for him. This will affect his prospects for re-election as well. The BJP contested 428 seats in the 2014 election of which it won 282 seats. Can you tell us why the BJP could not win 146 seats despite the Modi wave? A wave does not mean that he wins every seat. A wave does not mean that there is no Opposition left in the country. That is not the definition. A wave means that there is substantial support for a leader and that the normal rules of electoral arithmetic no longer applies. In the 2014 elections, it did not apply. For a party to jump from 19 per cent vote share in 2009 to 31 per cent in 2014 was remarkable. A party which wins 71 seats in Uttar Pradesh out of 80, 26 seats out of 26 in Gujarat, 25 seats out of 25 in Rajasthan, seven seats out of seven in Delhi, to win all but a few seats in Madhya Pradesh, to win 30 plus seats along with allies in Bihar was staggering. All this points out that the normal rules of electoral arithmetic did not apply and there was a wave across north, central and west India for the BJP. I think the challenge for the BJP is in the south and east of India. The fact is that while the BJP is becoming a wider national party, it still has a long way to go. In these regions, the party did not do well and it is in those regions the BJP lost seats. One of the strategies of BJP President Amit A Shah and Modi, it seems, is to make Hindus angry by raising issues like 'Shamshan-Kabristan', 'Love Jihad', etc. You mention this in your book in the chapter 'H-M chunav'. How long will such issues affect voters and how long will they vote on such issues? It is definitely true that one of the tools of the BJP's electoral mobilisation is communal polarisation. The BJP does pick up issues and uses propaganda that makes the Hindu voter anxious, angry, and resentful of Muslims, and makes him believe that other parties only indulge in the politics of 'appeasement'. That helps the BJP to consolidate Hindu votes. This worked in the UP elections, but not in Bihar. This is dangerous, cynical politics. But this is not the only reason for the success of the BJP, because in the past too they have used the communal polarisation card. I found it interesting that through my travels, I never heard any Hindu voter of the Congress, the Samajwadi Party or the BSP (Bahujan Samaj Party) use the word 'secularism' or suggest the secular-communal binary as a determinant of their voting choice. The politics of secularism is dead because it has no resonance with the voter. Secularism is associated either with corruption, malgovernance or minority votes. That allows the BJP to construct its own majority vote. I don't know how long this politics of polarisation will continue. I think it will remain a feature of the electoral contest, but I will say this again, it is not the only reason for the BJP's success. However, it is definitely one important tool that they use. And it is a dangerous, divisive, unethical, cynical tool. The Congress has done nothing for Muslims in 60 years of its rule. The Sachar Committee report notes this fact, but how does the BJP's election strategy convince Hindu voters that they are second class citizens in India, that all government benefits are going only to Muslims? I do agree that 'secular parties' who have often relied on Muslim votes and who have got Muslim votes have not done anything substantial to improve the material lives of the community. Data now shows that Muslims are one of the most marginalised communities in India. I don't want to get into the history of acrimony that exists between the two communities which the BJP taps into. It also taps into latent prejudices that exist among different communities. I think the BJP constructs many theories which are not based on facts. I think the theory of 'Love Jihad' is rubbish. It is not true. I think allegations such as Hindus had to migrate from Kairana in Uttar Pradesh because of Muslim gangsters was not true. Amit Shah said the Akhilesh Yadav government distributed laptops to one particular community -- this is not true. There was no discrimination in the distribution of laptops. Even PM Modi's statement that electricity was distributed during Eid and not during Diwali is not true. These are things not rooted in evidence and fact, but this is a powerful construct that is built up by the BJP. There is propaganda and it does then end up making Hindu voters anxious. The majority are made to feel persecuted. On the other side, the fault of other parties which call themselves secular is that while they have not done enough to improve the lives of Muslims, they have only pandered to tokenistic politics of the worst kind. So Mulayam Singh Yadav's Muslim politics has just allowed the BJP to project this as the party that only appeals to Muslims and not the majority community. There was a theory which Muhammad Ali Jinnah proposed to Indian Muslims before Independence -- that Muslims lives would not matter under Hindu rule after the British left in 1947. Do you feel Modi has proved Jinnah right by making the Muslim vote redundant? Is secularism dead then? Not at all. The politics of secularism as it has been practised may be dead, but the idea and principle is alive. The first thing is that the Indian Constitution remains secular. I don't see that changing. The fact that the Indian State is secular is beyond doubt. Indian institutions are secular. Even today if there is an instance of say lynching in the name of cow protection, the courts step in. Institutions step in. There is a vibrant Opposition that steps in and there is an immediate outcry. Indeed, PM Modi himself condemned such incidents. There is a very strong Constitutional layer of protection of minority rights in India. India is not a Hindu Rashtra. I think democracy goes through ebbs and flows. There are cycles in a democracy. The fact is that there are large sections of the Hindu electorate who are not voting for the BJP. In future elections, newer kinds of alignments can easily come up. So will we say then Jinnah was wrong? I don't think we should get into that territory. What Jinnah said was absolutely wrong. I think the experience of the secular Indian State shows Muslims in India are safer than Muslims in Pakistan. Does it mean that the danger of Hindu majoritarian communalism in India does not exist? Yes, it does exist. Does it mean that Muslims must have more space in India's democratic structure? Yes, they must have more space in the Indian democratic structure. Indian pluralism is deep and the Indian State will remain secular. What will happen to the BJP post-Modi? After (Atal Bihar) Vajpayee, there was a fear about what will happen to the BJP, but then there was (Lal Kishenchand) Advani. After Advani, there was a churning and through that churn, Modi emerged. There is a school of thought that there is a lot of centralisation in the BJP. There is indeed a lot of authority vested in Modi and Amit Shah who are in control. But I think there is also a generation of leaders who are being created post-Modi. There is Amit Shah who is 52 years old. There is Yogi Adityanath who is in his mid-40s. You have Devendra Fadnavis, the chief minister of Maharashtra, who is again a young chief minister. You have younger leaders who are becoming Cabinet ministers. You have Piyush Goyal, Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmendra Pradhan and Smriti Irani. I am not saying that they are going to be top leaders, but there is a second generation of leaders who are in their 40s and 50s and emerging. It is through a process of intense competition and intense fighting based on who are electorally more successful and have the backing of the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) that we will see the contours of the new BJP emerge. This will eventually decide who will become the leader in the party after Modi. There could be reverses, but it is not that after Modi the BJP will collapse. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday asked Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul to break their "silence" over media reports which claimed that Robert Vadra had "links" with fugitive arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was fielded by her party to attack the Congress leadership, said the silence of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul will be construed as acceptance of charges against Vadra. Citing the media report, Sitharaman alleged that a London house linked to Vadra was refurbished by Bhandari, who also made arrangements for his travel abroad. She also claimed that an amount of 7.5 lakh Swiss franc was deposited in a bank account of Bhandari and asked if there was a connection between this and the money spent on refurbishing the London house linked to Vadra. The minister, citing the media report, alleged that there were at least three transactions between them with "serious financial implications". Addressing a press conference, Sitharaman asked, "Why senior leadership of the Congress, including Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, is keeping a studied silence." Referring to Rahul Gandhi's frequent tweets, the minister wondered why he was keeping silent on this matter. She also claimed that the Congress leader was "copying" Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Asked what the CBI was doing as it was investigating Bhandari, she said this question should be put to the agency. The government is taking all steps to bring the absconding arms dealer back to India to face law, she added. Party spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said, "If you believe that Vadra is innocent and then why not file a defamation suit?... the silence shows guilt." After the BJP's attack, the Congress said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should get "any investigation" done into any allegations against Vadra to find out if there was any "wrong doing". Congress spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said Vadra has been going through "witch-hunting" for the last 41 months. "As far as any allegations against Robert Vadra are concerned, we will only say, Modiji has been in power for 41 months. "They have a government in Haryana and Rajasthan, and by all means, conduct any investigation that you choose, and come to a conclusion through a free and fair process of law of any wrong doing," Surjewala said. He said in "witch-hunting" of 41 months and multiple commissions of inquiries, the BJP has not arrived at a single conclusion of violation of any law, rule or regulation, either in Haryana and Rajasthan. "Allegations were levelled in these two states, based on which they came to power," the Congress spokesman added. Meanwhile, Vadra put out a philosophical message on social media over the controversy. "Good Morning, I am capable, I am strong. If I believe in myself, I can turn my dreams into a plan, and my plan into my reality," says a quote on his Facebook post along with his photograph and a few horses running by a sea. Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah on Tuesday hit out at Kerala's Communist Party of India Marxist-led Left Democratic Front government over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsiblity for the "killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers." Shah also took a swipe at the Congress, saying the party was "finished" in the country due to alleged corruption and "family rule." Shah was addressing a massive rally of party workers at the conclusion of the BJP's 15-day long 'Jana Raksha Yatra' in Thiruvananthapuram, organised to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' under the CPIM-led LDF rule. "I am asking Kerala chief minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsiblity for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power (in May 2016)," said Shah, who took part in the padayatra for a distance of about 2 km along with state president Kummanam Rajasekharan. "CM saheb, If you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology," he said. "In a short period of time, people of Kerala also will throw away CPI-M from the state, for its politics of violence," the BJP chief said. Not sparing the Congress, the main opposition in the state, he said "the party was finished in the country due to corruption and family rule." Slamming Vijayan, Shah asked the chief minister whether the mandate given by people was to "eliminate" innocent BJP-RSS workers. Stating that attacks against BJP-RSS workers had increased whenever the marxist party came to power in Kerala, Shah said 30 party workers were killed during LDF rule between 1996-2001 and 28 workers during 2006-11. "Now when it came to power in 2016, in the short period of one-and-half years, 13 RSS-BJP activists have been killed by CPI-M workers," he said. The BJP leader assured the families of the victims of attacks, allegedly by the CPI-M, that all the accused would be brought to book and the party would always be with the families. If the marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of independence, "they are mistaken," he said. Shah made it clear that BJP's ideology and its growth in the state cannot be stopped with violence. He said the yatra was aimed at creating awareness about the "communist sponsored violence and brutality" against BJP-RSS workers in the state. Shah said it was "shameful" on the part of the chief minister to appoint a CPI-M party worker, accused in a case connected with the killing of a BJP worker, as party block secretary. This is the first time in the country that a padayatra that covered 140 km, touching 11 districts, has been taken out against political violence, he said. Not sparing the Congress leaders in Kerala, Shah said former chief minister Oommen Chandy and some of his colleagues were smeared in "solar scam." However, he alleged that the chief minister was delaying action against the accused even though the judicial commission, set up to probe the scam, had submitted its report. Shah also said the government at the Centre led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi never discriminated states on the basis of political affiliations in sanctioning funds. While the 13th Finance Commission during UPA-1 sanctioned Rs 45,395 crore for the state, the 14th Finance Commission of Modi government sanctioned Rs 1.13 lakh crore, Shah said. Earlier, Shah walked with party workers for about 2 km from the Martyr's column at Palayam to Putharikandam maidan, near the famous Padmanabha swamy temple. The BJP chief waved and acknowledged greetings from thousands of BJP workers as he joined the yatra being led by state president, Kummanam Rajasekharan. Shah also paid tributes to party workers who had lost their lives in political violence in the state before addressing the public meeting. The BJP chief had flagged-off the yatra at Payyannur in Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI-M and BJP-RSS workers, on October 3. The padayatra had criss-crossed 11 districts in the state with four chief ministers, including Yogi Aditiyanath of Uttar Pradesh, senior party leaders and Union ministers taking part in the high-pitched campaign against the ruling LDF. Representatives of the National Democratic Alliance partners in the state -- Tushar Vellapally of the Bharat Dharma Jana Sena, Tribal leader C K Janu of Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, P C Thomas of Kerala Congress-Thomas were among those who attended the public meeting. Image: BJP chief Amit Shah and BJP Kerala state president Kummanam Rajasekharan wave to the crowd in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. Photograph: PTI Photo The Taj Mahal was made by the blood and sweat of "Bharat Mata's sons" and its protection was the responsibility of the Uttar Pradesh government, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Tuesday. Announcing that he would be visiting Agra next week to review tourism schemes, the chief minister said the Taj Mahal was a historical monument regardless of the emperor who had built it. Adityanath's comments come a day after his colleague, Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Sangeet Som, questioned the Taj Mahal's place in India's heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. "It is immaterial as to who and how the Taj Mahal was built... It was made by the sweat and blood of Bharat Mata's sons," the chief minister said in Gorakhpur. "It is famous the world over for its architecture... it is a historical monument and its protection and further development for tourism is the responsibility of the government," he added. Announcing that he would visit Agra on October 26 and there was a Rs 370 crore work plan for the city, Adityanath said it was the duty of the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure that proper security and facilities were extended to tourists. "Our government is working for tourism development for the Kalinjer Fort (in Banda) and working for the Rani Laxmibai's Fort in Jhansi as well as the Chunar Fort (in Mirzapur) and has prepared schemes for their development," he said. Governor Ram Naik weighed in with his views on the 17th century monument to love built by Shahjahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. "The Taj is one of the wonders of the world and the pride of our country. So don't drag it into controversies and play politics over it," he said on the sidelines of the convocation of the Chatrapati Sahuji Maharaj University in Kanpur. In Lucknow, Principal Secretary-Information Awanish Awasthi told mediapersons that the chief minister would also visit the Agra Fort and review other schemes as well for the city. Som's comments on the Taj Mahal had come after the Adityanath government reportedly omitted the 17th century monument from an official booklet on tourist destinations. "Many people are pained to see that the Taj Mahal was removed from the list of places (tourist destinations). What type of history?" he had asked during a public meeting in Meerut on Monday. His comments prompted an angry response from All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen leader and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi who asked if the government would tell tourists not to visit the monument. The BJP stepped into the row with party spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao describing Muslim rule in India as "barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance" while asserting that its members could hold any opinion they want on specific monuments. Following reports about the Taj Mahal being left out of the booklet, the state government had issued a press release stating, "Tourism projects worth Rs 370 crore are proposed, under which schemes worth Rs 156 crore for development of parks and various facilities are meant for the Taj Mahal and its surrounding areas in Agra." ***** Why only Taj, demolish Red Fort, Rashtrapati Bhavan too: Azam Khan Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan has called for the destruction of Rashtrapati Bhawan, Qutab Minar and Red Fort, calling the historical buildings a sign of slavery. Taking potshots at Sangeet Som, Khan said, "Why only Taj Mahal? Why not Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutab Minar, Lal Qila? All these are signs of slavery. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh people call it a sign of traitor and if it is so, then the Taj Mahal should be demolished." Known for making controversial statements, Khan said that he is always in favour of demolishing monuments signifying slavery. WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW With ANI inputs Featured above are the volcanoes Agua, at left, and Acatenango at right. Behind Acatenango is Volcan Fuego. In his compendium of the history of Guatemala City, Domingo Juarros states that the population was unable to prosper because of a formidable torrent of water from Agua (the Volcano of Water) on September 11, 1541. "The torrent brought with it great rocks that destroyed part of the buildings and mistreated the rest." A second city of Guatemala was founded, today called Antigua, but in 1737 during the prelude to eruptions of Fuego (the Volcano of Fire), strong earthquakes caused significant damage, which again forced the relocation of Guatemala City to its current location. Photo taken from hillside in San Cristobal, just west of Guatemala City, on July 30, 2017. Kuwait: Court Strikes Down Draconian DNA Law Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 17 October 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Kuwait: Court Strikes Down Draconian DNA Law, 17 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5acfe6.html [accessed 15 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 Constitutional Court's decision on October 5, 2017 to strike down Kuwait's overly broad DNA law is a positive step for the right to privacy in the country, Human Rights Watch and GeneWatch said today. The 2015 law had required all Kuwaiti citizens, residents, and visitors to provide DNA samples to authorities, in violation of their right to personal privacy. Kuwait was the only country to require nationwide compulsory DNA testing. The court found that the DNA law violated articles 30 and 31 of Kuwait's constitution, which protect the right to personal liberty and privacy. The ruling is final, without the possibility of appeal. In 2016 the United Nations Human Rights Committee, which monitors implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, found that the law imposed "unnecessary and disproportionate restrictions on the right to privacy." That same year, Kuwait's emir directed the authorities to amend the law in line with constitutional standards, and Kuwait lawyers brought a legal challenge against the law. Human Rights Watch has previously called on Kuwait to amend the law to comply with its obligations under international human rights law. "The court's decision to overturn the DNA law is a very positive step that ends this misguided and hastily passed invasion of privacy in Kuwait," said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director at Human Rights Watch. "The law was an overly broad cudgel that lacked basic safeguards or restrictions, and opened the door to government abuses." Kuwait introduced Law No. 78 of 2015, known as the DNA Law, after the June 2015 suicide bombing of the Imam Sadiq Mosque, which killed 27 people and wounded 227. As part of the law, authorities mandated all Kuwaiti citizens, foreign residents, and temporary visitors to submit DNA samples to a database to be maintained and operated by the Interior Ministry. The law imposed a penalty of up to one year in prison and 10,000 Kuwaiti Dinars (US$33,000) in fines for refusing to provide DNA samples. Authorities reported to local media that anyone failing to comply with the law would be subject to sanctions, including canceling their passports and a possible travel ban. DNA collection databases are not inherently illegal and have been justified at times as permissible investigative tools. But to meet international privacy standards enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Kuwait has ratified, a DNA collection and retention mechanism must be extensively regulated, narrow in scope, and proportionate to meeting a legitimate security goal. Any attempt by parliament to revise the law should fully respect the right to privacy under both Kuwaiti and international law, Human Rights Watch and GeneWatch said. This would include limiting DNA collection to people suspected of committing serious crimes and with a court order, the ability to challenge the decision in court, and a time limit after which DNA profiles are removed from the database. It should also establish an oversight system to monitor the collection, use, and destruction of DNA samples, prevent abuses, and ensure that people included in the database have access to effective remedies. A new report by the Forensic Genetics Policy Initiative, which works to address imbalances between the legitimate needs of law enforcement and individual rights regarding DNA collection and use, outlines human rights best practice for DNA databases. "We welcome the court's judgment that a blanket approach to collecting DNA poses unacceptable risks to the population of Kuwait," said Dr. Helen Wallace, Director of GeneWatch UK, which monitors developments in genetic technologies. "Kuwait now has an opportunity to implement best practice and protect privacy, prevent abuses, and avoid miscarriages of justice." Copyright notice: Copyright Amnesty International Burma: New Satellite Images Confirm Mass Destruction Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 17 October 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Burma: New Satellite Images Confirm Mass Destruction, 17 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5ad944.html [accessed 15 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. Newly released satellite images reveal that at least 288 villages were partially or totally destroyed by fire in northern Rakhine State in Burma since August 25, 2017, Human Rights Watch said today. The destruction encompassed tens of thousands of structures, primarily homes inhabited by ethnic Rohingya Muslims. Analysis of the satellite imagery indicates both that the burnings focused on Rohingya villages and took place after Burmese officials claimed security force "clearance operations" had ceased, Human Rights Watch said. The imagery pinpoints multiple areas where destroyed Rohingya villages sat adjacent to intact ethnic Rakhine villages. It also shows that at least 66 villages were burned after September 5, when security force operations supposedly ended, according to a September 18 speech by State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi. The Burmese military responded to attacks on August 25 by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) with a campaign of ethnic cleansing, prompting more than 530,000 Rohingya to flee across the border to Bangladesh, according to the United Nations refugee agency. "These latest satellite images show why over half a million Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in just four weeks," said Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director. "The Burmese military destroyed hundreds of Rohingya villages while committing killings, rapes, and other crimes against humanity that forced Rohingya to flee for their lives." A total of 866 villages in Maungdaw, Rathedaung, and Buthidaung townships in Rakhine State were monitored and analyzed by Human Rights Watch. The most damage occurred in Maungdaw Township, accounting for approximately 90 percent of the areas where destruction happened between August 25 and September 25. Approximately 62 percent of all villages in the township were either partially or completely destroyed, and southern areas of the township were particularly hard hit, with approximately 90 percent of the villages devastated. In many places, satellite imagery showed multiple areas on fire, burning simultaneously over wide areas for extended periods. Human Rights Watch found that the damage patterns are consistent with fire. Comparing recent imagery with those taken prior to the date of the attacks, analysis showed that most of the damaged villages were 90 to 100 percent destroyed. Many villages which had both Rohingya and Rakhine residing in segregated communities, such as Inn Din and Ywet Hnyo Taung, suffered heavy arson damage from arson attacks, with known Rohingya areas burned to the ground while known Rakhine areas were left intact. The Burmese government has repeatedly said that ARSA insurgents and local Rohingya communities were responsible for setting the fires that wiped out their villages, but has offered no evidence to support such claims. Human Rights Watch interviews in Bangladesh with more than 100 refugees who had fled the three townships gave no indication that any Rohingya villagers or militants were responsible for burning down their own villages. The Burmese government and military has not impartially investigated and prosecuted alleged serious abuses committed against the Rohingya population. UN member countries and international bodies should press the Burmese government to grant access to the UN-mandated fact-finding mission to investigate these abuses. The UN Security Council should also urgently impose a global arms embargo on Burma, and place travel bans and asset freezes on those Burmese commanders responsible for grave abuses. Governments should impose a comprehensive arms embargo against Burma, including prohibiting military cooperation and financial transactions with military-owned enterprises. "The shocking images of destruction in Burma and burgeoning refugee camps in Bangladesh are two sides of the same coin of human misery being inflicted on the Rohingya," Robertson said. "Concerned governments need to urgently press for an end to abuses against the Rohingya and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches everyone in need." Copyright notice: Copyright, Human Rights Watch 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. Joint Statement on the Rohingya Refugee Crisis Publisher UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Author Filippo Grandi, Mark Lowcock & William Lacy Swing Publication Date 16 October 2017 Cite as UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Joint Statement on the Rohingya Refugee Crisis, 16 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5b2674.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Comments Co-published with International Organization for Migration & United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs After violence broke out in Myanmar's Rakhine state on 25 August, more than 500,000 Rohingya refugees crossed into neighbouring Bangladesh in less than five weeks. Tens of thousands of refugees have arrived since, fleeing discrimination, violence and persecution, as well as isolation and fear. The speed and scale of the influx made it the world's fastest growing refugee crisis and a major humanitarian emergency. The Government of Bangladesh, local charities and volunteers, the UN and NGOs are working in overdrive to provide assistance. But much more is urgently needed. The efforts must be scaled up and expanded to receive and protect refugees and ensure they are provided with basic shelter and acceptable living conditions. Every day more vulnerable people arrive with very little -- if anything - and settle either in overcrowded existing camps or extremely congested makeshift sites. They are fully dependent on humanitarian assistance for food, water, health and other essential needs. Basic services are under severe strain. In some sites, there is no access to potable water, and sanitation facilities are absent, raising health risks for both the refugees and the communities hosting them. Bangladesh has kept its borders open, offering safety and shelter to fleeing families. We have been moved by the welcome and generosity shown by the local communities towards the refugees. Now a critical Pledging Conference in Geneva on 23 October 2017 is being organized by OCHA, IOM and UNHCR and co-hosted by the European Union and Kuwait. It provides Governments from around the world an opportunity to show their solidarity and share the burden and responsibility. Their further generous support for the Joint Response Plan, which was recently launched by the UN and partners, is urgently needed to sustain and scale up the large humanitarian effort already under way. The plan requires US$434 million to meet the life-saving needs of all Rohingya refugees and their host communities - together an estimated 1.2 million people - for the difficult months to come. We call on the international community to intensify efforts to bring a peaceful solution to the plight of the Rohingya, to end the desperate exodus, to support host communities and ensure the conditions that will allow for refugees' eventual voluntary return in safety and dignity. The origins and, thus, the solutions to this crisis lie in Myanmar. Let us all come together on 23 October at the pledging conference and send a strong message to the Rohingya refugees and their generous hosts in Bangladesh that the world is there for them in their greatest time of need. Title Response of the Turkish Government to the report of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) on its visit to Turkey from 16 to 23 June 2015 Publication Date 17 October 2017 Country Republic of Turkiye Citation / Document Symbol CPT/Inf (2017) 33 Cite as Council of Europe: Committee for the Prevention of Torture, Response of the Turkish Government to the report of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) on its visit to Turkey from 16 to 23 June 2015, 17 October 2017, CPT/Inf (2017) 33, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5b5264.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Somalia: Journalists among dead and wounded from Mogadishu truck bomb Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 16 October 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Somalia: Journalists among dead and wounded from Mogadishu truck bomb, 16 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5b65d4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemns the indiscriminate violence of Saturday's truck bomb in Mogadishu, which left at least 260 dead and 300 wounded. A reporter was among those killed. Other journalists were wounded. RSF offers its condolences to their families and colleagues. The massive explosion at a busy Mogadishu intersection on 14 October, Somalia's deadliest ever terrorist attack, flattened several buildings as well as killing hundreds, including freelance video-reporter Ali Nur Siad-Ahmed. Five journalists were among the wounded: Abdukadir Mohamed Abdulle of Voice of America, Mohamed Omar Bakay of Goobjoog Radio, Abdullahi Osman Farah and freelancers Abdiqani Ali Adan and Ahmed Abdi Hadi. Abdulle was taken to an intensive care at Ummah Hospital in southern Mogadishu. Siad-Ahmed is the second Somali journalist to be killed in a terrorist attack this year. The first was Abdullahi Osman Moallim, who worked for Radio Codka Hiiraan and state-owned Jubbaland TV. He died on 13 September from injuries sustained three days earlier in a bomb explosion at the hotel where he was waiting to attend a press conference. No one has so far claimed Saturday's bombing but it bears all the hallmarks of Al-Shabaab, a militant Islamist group that has been on RSF's list of Press Freedom Predators since 2008. Al-Shabaab has banned radio and TV in the regions it controls and constantly persecutes journalists. Ranked 167th out of 180 countries in RSF's World Press Freedom Index, Somalia is the deadliest country in Africa for media personnel. RSF estimates that 43 journalists have been killed in Somalia since 2010. Kyrgyzstan: Dirty Election, Vibrant Electorate Publisher EurasiaNet Author Nurjamal Djanibekova Publication Date 13 October 2017 Cite as EurasiaNet, Kyrgyzstan: Dirty Election, Vibrant Electorate, 13 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5bcbd4.html [accessed 15 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 sharp escalation of dirty tricks has soured the mood ahead of Kyrgyzstan's October 15 presidential election, the variety and intensity of people's opinions are reminders of why the country continues to deserve its reputation as a haven in the region for relative political freedom. The election is centering on two establishment candidates - all the other contestants are also-rans. The outcome remains uncertain, which is an anomaly when it comes to votes in Central Asia. In one corner is Sooronbai Jeenbekov, a dour and charisma-lite 58-year-old southerner who served as prime minister from April 2016 until stepping down in August to begin campaigning. He has been handpicked by the ruling Social Democratic Party, or SDPK, and been implicitly supported by President Almazbek Atambayev, who is constitutionally required to relinquish power after one term. For that reason, Jeenbekov is seen by his backers as a symbol of continuity. "We need an honest president who will bring peace. Naturally, I am for Jeenbekov, since he is going to continue Atambayev's path. We can't just leave what he started unfinished, can we?" Zhanyl Aliyeva, a 67-year old pensioner, told EurasiaNet.org. "They repaired so many schools and kindergartens, and pensions went up." Atambayev's opponents have criticized the moribund pace of reforms across the board. The judiciary still lacks independence, corruption remains rife and while the economy has registered steady growth, hundreds of thousands are still forced to go abroad in search of work. For all that, Atambayev has presided over a period of relative political stability. Many are eager to see that predictable, gently-does-it style of leadership continued in the person of Jeenbekov. Nazira, 28, who works in Kyrgyzstan's justice system, said that Jeenbekov's appeal lies precisely in his unshowy demeanor. "I like Jeenbekov, because he is a much more straightforward guy than the other candidates. He is closer to the people, he is honest and good, not crafty," said Nazira, who declined to provide her surname. Opposing Jeenbekov is multimillionaire businessman Omurbek Babanov, 47, whose political capital rests on his leadership of the Respublika/Ata-Zhurt party - a union between an ostensibly pro-business force and another that appeals primarily to rural nationalists. Babanov, a northerner, also had a stint as prime minister, for a year, vacating the post in December 2011. He has easily outspent all his rivals while campaigning, as testified by the colossal amount of posters, billboards and online advertising promoting his run. His relative youth, dynamism and pledges to overhaul the sclerotic public sector are seen as key factors in his appeal. "Young people support other young people, so that is why I am for Babanov," said Dastan, 20, a service-sector worker. "I have long supported his party, Respublika. I like him as a person, as a public speaker. He will be able to lead this country and bring some order. He will be presentable as a president, as the face of the country." Similar positions are an implicit rebuke of the outgoing president, Atambayev, who has shocked many voters with a series of increasingly eccentric outbursts. With only days to go before the vote, Kyrgyzstan is embroiled in an ugly confrontation with Kazakhstan, one of the country's main investors and trading partners, as a result of Atambayev accusing officials in Kazakhstan of being corrupt. Jeenbekov is a more sedate character than Atambayev, but he too has had his moments of crudeness that grate sections of the educated, urban electorate. Babanov's wealth has proven a double-edged sword, with some seeing it as evidence of a talent for handling finances and sensing opportunities, while others believe nobody in the country could have become so rich without any wrongdoing. "My own life might not improve if Babanov becomes president, but at least something will move forward in the country," Ansal Gasanov, a 55-year-old driver, told EurasiaNet.org. If neither candidate manages to get past the 50 percent threshold, there will have to be a second, head-to-head round of voting, to be held no earlier than two weeks after the results of the first round are announced. With no reliable polling available, few are hazarding a prediction on the anticipated outcome. But in an apparent indication of panic in Jeenbekov's camp, which, in effect, includes the entire state apparatus, a whisper campaign aimed at undermining Babanov has, in recent days and weeks, taken a new and sinister form. One potentially explosive allegation has been that Babanov made a series of incendiary remarks during a rally in a mainly ethnic Uzbek neighborhood in the southern city of Osh on September 28. Heavily edited sequences of the address that were widely circulated on messenger apps seemed to imply that Babanov was somehow throwing in his lot with the Uzbek community - a toxic implication in a country where nationalist sentiments are strong and sometimes extremely violent. The edited clip appears to have had the intended effect on some sections of the electorate. "I was very disappointed when Omurbek Babanov made these scandalous remarks, because all you need in Osh is a spark and you will see clashes of unprecedented violence between the communities," said Akbermet Bayishova, 23, housewife in Osh. "If you look at the story of how Jeenbekov and Babanov established their reputation and built their status, you will see that Babanov has made a lot of provocative and scandalous remarks, which is not something you could say about Jeenbekov." Authorities have also shown they are prepared to resort to more muscular efforts to derail Babanov's campaign. At the end of September, the security services suddenly arrested a known Babanov ally and accused him of planning to provoke violent unrest in the event of his candidate failing to win the election. Seemingly cognizant of the government's willingness to use criminal cases to advance its cause, Babanov has adopted a public relations policy of passive resistance, avoiding engaging in too many counter-accusations. His patience appeared to have snapped just two days before the vote, however. "You see how state media is running a campaign of provocations against me. All because they are afraid of us, they are afraid of changes, and they don't want development," he said in a statement on October 13. Copyright notice: All EurasiaNet material Open Society Institute Tajikistan: Small-Time Debtors Detained, Larger Delinquents Get Away Publisher EurasiaNet Publication Date 13 October 2017 Cite as EurasiaNet, Tajikistan: Small-Time Debtors Detained, Larger Delinquents Get Away, 13 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5bd004.html [accessed 15 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. Police in Tajikistan announced in early October, via a run-of-the-mill press release, that they had detained a delinquent debtor owing money to the recently liquidated mid-sized lender Tojprombank. According to the statement, the detainee had taken out a two-year loan for 120,000 somoni ($13,700) that was due for repayment at the start of 2017. The arrest came on the heels of orders issued by Deputy Prime Minister Davlatali Said to the General Prosecutor's Office to hunt down people still owing money to Tojprombank, which had its license pulled by the Central Bank in February as it was teetering on the brink of collapse. But as EurasiaNet.org has found, while authorities look intent on punishing Tojprombank's smaller debtors, larger delinquent loan-holders, many of them linked to the bank itself, are facing no such pressure. When Tojprombank's license was withdrawn, accountholders were compensated with just 17,500 somoni ($2,000) apiece, as required by law. Officials pledged that the remainder of customers' savings would be returned as liquidators went through the process of selling off the bank's assets. Going after outstanding debts was another integral part of the effort to return account holders' money. Following the license withdrawal, the majority owner and chairman of the bank, Jamshed Ziyoyev, was removed and replaced by a committee overseeing the liquidation process. EurasiaNet.org was not able to establish Ziyayev's current whereabouts. The Asia-Plus news website has reported that Tojprombank currently owns an estimated 450 million somoni in assets ($51 million) and has 2,070 outstanding debtors owing a total of 266 million somoni ($30 million). The bank in turn has to pay out 550 million somoni ($62.5 million) to around 600 private customers and 235 companies. Internal Tojprombank documents obtained by EurasiaNet.org show that the bulk of unpaid debt - 219 million somoni ($25 million) - is held by just 12 companies. Two service companies registered in Tojprombank's name, Dahbed D and Dahbed M, collectively took out loans for 20.7 million somoni ($2.3 million). That debt remains unpaid. It is not clear from open-source information what precise line of services either company provided. Another outfit registered to Tojprombank, OOO TPB-PET, owes another 27 million somoni ($3 million). A related enterprise, TPB AVTO, a car repair business, has outstanding debts of 6 million somoni ($681,000). (The letters TPB in these company names stand for Tojprombank). Construction company Promstroy, which owes Tojprombank 3.4 million somoni ($386,000), belongs to another property development vehicle, Tropikan Invest, which is in turn owned by the bank. TPB-AKVA, which owes 60.7 million somoni ($6.8 million), belongs to the former chairman's son, Aziz Ziyoyev. Records show that the younger Ziyoyev is also the owner of several other companies, including coal processor TPB-Angisht, trading company TPB-Kapital and aircraft leasing enterprise called ADM-Air. All available evidence points to the likelihood that Tojprombank served, in essence, to provide liquidity for a diversified portfolio of commercial interests owned by the bank itself. Other major delinquent debtors not obviously linked to Tojprombank have also escaped scrutiny. Another aviation company, based in Hamburg, Germany, received a 15 million somoni ($1.7 million) loan from Tojprombank that remains unpaid. Information on the identity of the ultimate beneficiaries of that company were not immediately available. Documents obtained by EurasiaNet.org also indicate that among the other debtors is Olim Textile, owned by Jamshed Abdulov, whose businesses are concentrated in Tajikistan's cotton sector, much of which is reputedly controlled by President Emomali Rahmon's brother-in-law, Hasan Asadullozoda. Abdulov owes 29 million somoni ($3.2 million). And an aviation services company Jahon Sayir, which is run by an individual called Behruz Hasan, took out a loan for 21 million somoni ($2.3 million). Tojprombank was founded in October 1995 as an all-purpose retail bank. The controlling shares of the company were held by Jamshed Ziyoyev. Signs the lender was in distress began to emerge in 2015. In the middle of 2016, Ziyoyev was removed as head of the bank, which was placed under administration. In December, the National Bank declared it was refinancing Tojprombank to the tune of 450 million somoni ($56 million) and reappointed Ziyoyev to his old job and ordered him to restore the lender to health. The bailout money was raised through the emission of somoni-denominated sovereign bonds that were converted into liquid cash by the National Bank. But then two months later, the National Bank performed yet another about-face and decided to shutter Tojprombank, together with another recipient of bailout funds, Fononbank. And then in April, it emerged that the government decided unilaterally to allocate the money it had set aside as bailout funds for Tojprombank, and ultimately its customers, to construction work on the Roghun hydropower dam. The collapse of Tojprombank caused substantial distress for small-scale depositors. Solidjon Djurayev, a well-known local lawyer who said he had deposited $45,000 with the bank in 2013, appealed in an open letter in June to the government to take legal action against Ziyoyev and other senior managers at Tojprombank. In the letter, Djurayev accused Ziyoyev of shady accounting practices and parlaying the bank's financial resources into unprofitable enterprises. The lawyer said Tojprombank's management was purposely attempting to avoid paying back depositors by valuing the bank's remaining assets at exorbitantly high prices designed to discourage buyers. Tojprombank assets include, among other things, its headquarters in Dushanbe, all its branch offices, and numerous houses and apartments. Djurayev has, since writing his letter, moved to Russia. At the start of August, a 50-year-old resident of Dushanbe, Hairiddin Kodirov, hanged himself and left a suicide note blaming Tojprombank for his misfortunes. Two years earlier, Kodirov, a railway worker, had deposited $84,000, the proceeds from the sale of his late parents' home, with the bank. Almost all the money was lost. Copyright notice: All EurasiaNet material Open Society Institute Kyrgyzstan: Presidential Election Produces First-Round Winner Publisher EurasiaNet Author Nurjamal Djanibekova Publication Date 16 October 2017 Cite as EurasiaNet, Kyrgyzstan: Presidential Election Produces First-Round Winner, 16 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5bd674.html [accessed 15 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. Kyrgyzstan has chosen a new president, but it remains to be seen if he will really be in charge. In a surprise development, government party candidate Sooronbai Jeenbekov swept to victory in the October 15 presidential election, winning 55 percent of the vote and thereby avoiding a widely anticipated runoff. His closest rival, multimillionaire Omurbek Babanov, garnered 35 percent of the ballots cast, and defied expectations by grudgingly accepting defeat. Despite securing a 20-point margin of victory, Jeenbekov, 58, finds himself confronting a legitimacy hurdle. While his vote total would be the envy of many western politicians, in Kyrgyzstan, it represents a historically weak mandate. Outgoing president Almazbek Atambayev, who was limited constitutionally to one term in office, won the 2011 election with 63 percent of the vote. Medet Tiulegenov, a professor of international and comparative politics at Bishkek's American University of Central Asia, said Jeenbekov's victory is, in reality, a win for Atambayev. "It will be very hard for Jeenbekov, and he will have to build relationships with civil servants to prove that he is not Atambayev's puppet, but an independent player," Tiulegenov said. Tiulegenov added that Atambayev figures to remain an important behind-the-scenes political player, primarily holding the balance of power between Jeenbekov and the 40-year old prime minister Sapar Isakov. Both owe their political fortunes to the Atambayev-founded Social Democratic Party, or SDPK, the governing party of which they both members. In the wake of the 2010 uprising that ousted former president Kurmanbek Bakiyev, changes were made to constitution that ostensibly redistributed power away from the presidency. Atambayev tinkered with the rules again in 2016 - and got the changes adopted via a highly contentious referendum - to yet again enhance the role of the prime minister and, to a lesser extent, parliament. One glaring shortcoming to the existing premier-president tandem is that the executive remains, in theory, reliant on a shaky, three-way parliamentary coalition, comprising the SDPK, which holds 38 out of the 120 seats, the Kyrgyzstan Party and Bir Bol. This state of affairs prompted an unsigned AKIpress news agency commentator to suggest in a post-election snap analysis that more political developments may be in the offing. "For the guaranteed preservation of this system, the SDPK needs a more solid majority in the Jogorku Kenesh [parliament]. This means that early parliamentary elections are a real possibility," the commentator wrote. Jeenbekov began his political journey by rising through the ranks of the collective farm system in the Soviet Union. Then, in 1995, he was first elected to parliament. At various times, he has served as agriculture minister, head of the presidential administration and governor of his native Osh region. In April 2016, he became prime minister, a position he vacated in August 2017 to concentrate on presidential campaigning. Tiulegenov described Jeenbekov as more of a manager than the leader. "He would be better off running ministries, but that is Isakov's prerogative now. It will be hard for Jeenbekov to work on the ideological front. He's nothing like Atambayev in his manner," Tiulegenov said. Jeenbekov's challenge in establishing his leadership credentials could be complicated by questions surrounding his first-round victory. The bulk of his electorate was in the south, where local vote observers say the greater number of violations occurred. And in its post-vote report, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's monitoring mission noted "credible reports of widespread abuse of public resources and pressure on voters." "Furthermore, the elections were held concurrently with several criminal cases against opposition politicians or others supporting one of the main candidates," the OSCE report noted. Among the most serious areas of concern for monitors was the way in which vote officials appeared to rely so heavily on the electronic scanners installed on ballot boxes, which were used to produce almost instantaneous preliminary results. "More than one in five [precinct election commissions] relied on the results produced by the ballot scanners instead of manually counting the votes, which is required by the law," monitors said in their findings. While there is a broad consensus among local political analysts that Jeenbekov benefitted significantly from "administrative resources" - which can comprise anything from abuse of control over state media to putting pressure on state workers and university students to vote for a preferred candidate - some pin Babanov's defeat on his weakness as a candidate. "He did pretty well, despite the fact that his oligarch image didn't play well in such a poor country," said Igor Shestakov, a generally pro-government-leaning analyst. To the relief of many, Babanov tacitly accepted defeat and pledged in the meantime that his team will continue to investigate claims of electoral violations. "I believe that everything is to be done by legal means. I am certain that we will be victorious in future. Whatever doesn't kill us makes us stronger," said Babanov, whose Respublika/Ata-Jurt party holds 28 seats in parliament. Jeenbekov will have some tricky tasks to deal with once he formally assumes office in December. Political analyst Mars Sariyev recommended that Jeenbekov first address the thorny matter of relations with neighboring Kazakhstan. Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan became embroiled in an undignified diplomatic row after Atambayev accused Astana, in highly incendiary terms, of throwing its support behind Babanov. "Jeenbekov needs to sort out this situation with Kazakhstan, because this has been a massive blow to our relations. He should, first and foremost, smooth things over on a personal level," Sariyev said. Copyright notice: All EurasiaNet material Open Society Institute Azerbaijan: Suffocation of NGOs Raises Questions About Donor Strategy Publisher EurasiaNet Author Durna Safarova Publication Date 10 October 2017 Cite as EurasiaNet, Azerbaijan: Suffocation of NGOs Raises Questions About Donor Strategy, 10 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5be1d4.html [accessed 15 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 Azerbaijani government has forced the local chapter of the global corruption watchdog Transparency International to scale back its activities in the South Caucasus nation. The move is part of a long-running crackdown on the country's civil-society sector. But this particular episode perhaps resonates more than others because the local chapter had developed a reputation for being cautious in its approach toward the government, which international watchdogs - including Transparency International (TI) - contend is one of the more corrupt in the world. It is also stoking criticism of Western governments and advocacy organizations that fund many of Azerbaijan's largest civil society groups for adopting an allegedly restrained approach in dealings with Baku. On August 1, Transparency Azerbaijan (TA) closed two legal aid centers in the cities of Ganja and Guba, and its main office in Baku "substantially scaled down its activities," the group said in a statement. The organization indicated that its actions were prompted by laws - adopted in 2012 ahead of the last presidential election - designed to restrict foreign funding for Azerbaijani civil society organizations. Transparency Azerbaijan has traditionally gotten most of its financing from foreign donors, and as financing rules tightened, it came to rely entirely on the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which provided 100 percent of the organization's funding for the last year. "This should not be allowed to happen. Transparency Azerbaijan is a non-partisan organization, like all Transparency International chapters, with no political affiliations," the Berlin-based TI said in a statement. USAID has estimated that most of Azerbaijan's still-active, independent civil society organizations have substantially cut back their operations in recent years. Transparency Azerbaijan is now the only anti-corruption organization operating in the country that is not affiliated with the government. And while Transparency International is one of the fiercest critics of the Azerbaijani leadership, the national chapter has increasingly come under fire from other local civil society activists, who complain that the local chapter's survival came at the cost of its interest in directly challenging high-level corruption in Azerbaijan. "In other post-Soviet countries, the TI national chapters have much better reputations," said Anar Mammadli, a prominent human rights activist. "Unfortunately, [TA] had not worked to establish public oversight over the government, and their work on combating corruption didn't respond to what the public needed." TA has conducted a variety of programs to combat corruption, develop governance skills for other local NGOs and help implement the government's ASAN e-governance system. But it has tended to avoid any direct confrontation with authorities. In one prominent example, in 2011, TA publicly disagreed with TI's assessment of the country's level of corruption. "There are fundamental corruption-related problems in the country. For instance, elected officials don't declare their income. There are corruption scandals. But TA doesn't address these issues," Mammadli said. "It's possible that the reason that the government was cooperating with Transparency Azerbaijan could be to soften the criticism from Transparency International. But TI has continued its activities honestly and that may be the reason for the pressure on TA," said Zohrab Ismayil, a civil society activist and head of an NGO, the Public Association for Assistance to Free Economy. In spite of TA's relatively docile stance, the scaling back of its operations "is still a loss to civil society and will narrow opportunities for people in the provinces," he added. TA, however, disputes that criticism. "It is not our job" to deal with specific issues of corruption, Rena Safaralieva, the organization's executive director, told EurasiaNet.org. "Our job is to give recommendations to the government and monitor various areas," Safaralieva said. In the bigger picture, the fact that such a relatively non-confrontational organization has had to retreat raises questions about foreign donors' approach to funding civil-society groups in Azerbaijan. USAID's interactions with the government of Azerbaijan have generated controversy in the past. "Why... does the US government continue to fund misguided programs in authoritarian and semi-authoritarian countries that display no interest in reform? Why does USAID write seriously of President Aliyev's benign intentions when he has shown minimal respect for the rights of his own citizens? The reason is as banal as it is galling: bureaucratic self-interest, inertia, and the assumption that more is always better," wrote Melinda Haring, fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, in a 2013 article in Foreign Policy. Since then, the ongoing crackdown has prompted foreign donor organizations, including USAID, to shift programs to less sensitive issues, critics charge. If donors previously funded projects in areas like corruption, freedom of expression, and freedom of assembly, they have now shifted to projects related to areas such as infrastructure, ecology, and agriculture. "Until about 2015, foreign donors have funded many projects in Azerbaijan involving young people in important areas like political campaigns, political leadership," said Abulfaz Gurbanli, a political activist and board member of the youth opposition group N!DA Civic Movement. "Under the current conditions, donors have stopped implementing politically sensitive programs in order not to create a confrontation with the authorities." "Western states have sold Azerbaijani civil society out," claimed Bakhtiyar Hajiyev, a Harvard-educated activist who spent two years in prison on politically motivated charges. Most recently, he complained, Western representatives in Baku have remained largely silent, as the government has heightened pressure on a prominent independent news organization. "Western countries are under the mistaken impression that in Azerbaijan, leaders from the democratic front will someday make democratic changes, and then, when everything is ready, they will say 'we are ready to work with you.' But this is not going to happen," Hajiyev asserted. USAID, in response to questions from EurasiaNet.org, did not directly address critics' allegations. "The United States seeks a strong, stable, independent, prosperous, democratic Azerbaijan. We have worked together with Azerbaijan in three equally important areas to help realize this goal: security, energy-economics, and democracy and human rights," the US Embassy in Baku told EurasiaNet.org in a statement. "USAID provides a wide spectrum of development assistance in two sectors: economic growth (policy reform, access to finance and economic diversification) and democracy and governance (assisting vulnerable populations, strengthening civil society)." Even when donors want to keep working on more politically sensitive projects, they can be thwarted by other factors. The German Marshall Fund, for example, continues to work on projects to provide free legal aid and promote freedom of speech. But the organization sometimes has difficulty in identifying local partners. "Apparently the all-around pressure has done its job," said Mehriban Rahimli, the Black Sea Trust Consultant of GMF on Azerbaijan and Georgia. "Applications for funding have decreased noticeably, because people are avoiding projects that are politically sensitive. It is understandable." Copyright notice: All EurasiaNet material Open Society Institute Kyrgyzstan: Competitive Presidential Election Heavy on 'Kompromat' Publisher EurasiaNet Author Nurjamal Djanibekova Publication Date 28 September 2017 Other Languages / Attachments Russian Cite as EurasiaNet, Kyrgyzstan: Competitive Presidential Election Heavy on 'Kompromat', 28 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5bfbc4.html [accessed 15 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. For the first time in Central Asia's post-Soviet history, one elected president is set to hand power over to another freely and fairly elected chief executive. That is the plan at least for Kyrgyzstan's upcoming presidential vote. Roughly a dozen candidates are standing in the October 15 election, but only two really have any chance - the former prime minister and the pick of the ruling Social Democratic Party, Sooronbai Jeenbekov, and multimillionaire businessman and leader of the Ata-Jurt/Respublika opposition coalition, Omurbek Babanov. The starting pistol for the presidential race was fired one month before election day. A stunning number of billboards, overwhelmingly advertising Jeenbekov and Babanov, quickly appeared around the country. Ideologically, there is little that clearly distinguishes the two leading candidates, and their respective campaigns dwell in generic terms on the prospect of a prosperous future for Kyrgyzstan under their rule. Jeenbekov, an agricultural specialist and accountant by training, is a consummate elite insider. He has variously served as Agriculture Minister, briefly in 2007, and then governor of his native Osh region, from 2010 to 2015. He was appointed prime minister last April, but stepped down in August to devote himself full-time to campaigning. Jeenbekov's brother, Asylbek, is another political heavyweight and served as the parliamentary speaker starting in December 2011. Asylbek Jeenbekov left that job just as his brother was named prime minister, avoiding a scenario in which siblings would have been presiding over two key branches of government. Babanov is no less the insider, although he differs from his rival in some important respects. He is a native of the more urbanized north, as opposed to Jeenbekov, a son of the rural south. Regional dynamics play an important role in Kyrgyz politics. Babanov is younger - 47 years old to Jeenbekov's 59 - and his campaign has effectively exploited this point by contrasting his dynamism against his rival's staid public persona. Babanov was born the only son of a deputy in the Supreme Soviet of the Kyrgyz SSR. In the mid-1990s, he moved to Kazakhstan and went into business, setting up highly profitable hotel, fuel and realty companies. He got into politics in 2005, getting elected to parliament in politically turbulent times. Weeks after Babanov won his seat, President Askar Akayev was toppled from power amid the Tulip Revolution. Babanov was a prominent critic of the elite that later took over, so his decision in 2009 to briefly occupy the post of deputy prime minister under the notoriously corrupt President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, who was himself overthrown in 2010, came as something of a surprise. In October 2011, he was named prime minister by outgoing President Almazbek Atambayev, but had to step down in 2012 amid allegations he was given a $1.3 million racehorse as a bribe. In the year before the 2015 parliamentary elections, he engineered an improbable union between his ostensibly business-oriented Respublika party and the nationalist Ata-Jurt party. There had been plans for a third, vaguely feasible, contender to be put forward by an alliance of influential southern politicians. But that plan fell apart earlier this month, and elements of the would-be third option went in different directions. One southern kingmaker, Kamchibek Tashiyev, has thrown his support behind Jeenbekov - an unexpected decision given that he was sentenced to time in jail in 2013 on contrived charges of attempting to seize power. Another politician, Bakyt Torobayev, leader of the reform-minded Onuguu-Progress party, has appeared on Babanov campaign posters suggesting he will be named prime minister under a new administration. Political analyst Marat Kazakpayev told EurasiaNet.org that more candidates may decide to endorse the frontrunners. "The candidates are neck and neck, and the fight is unfolding as one between the [two of] them. As far as booklets and campaign poster goes, Babanov is far ahead of everybody else, but Jeenbekov has a little more support. But both of them stand a good chance, and the winner will be decided in the second round," Kazakpayev predicted. Unless any one candidate receives the required majority, there will be a second round of voting, to take place no earlier than two weeks after results are announced. In lieu of election platforms, which are understood by very few voters, the campaigns are relying instead largely on darker political arts. "What we have here is more a competition in kompromat [dissemination of compromising material] than electoral programs. The candidates' manifestos are weak - they have either been copied from elsewhere, or they don't have one at all. And nobody reads these things anyway. That's how we do things," Kazakpayev said. The leading candidates are making some promises, albeit not very concrete ones. Jeenbekov, for instance, has vowed to continue the agenda of Atambayev, who is barred constitutionally from serving more than one term as president. That means ostensibly fighting corruption and poverty, creating an independent judiciary, and developing tourism, medicine and education. In reality, however, progress in these areas under Atambayev has ranged from weak to nonexistent. Babanov's agenda, dubbed "The Path Ahead," is predicated on a five-step program that includes tackling shortfalls in healthcare, boosting national security, cutting back on the harassment of entrepreneurs by officialdom and designing a more effective foreign policy. In addition to kompromat, political observers are also seeing the deployment of what are euphemistically called "administrative resources." Kairat Osmonaliyev, a member of the Central Election Commission, said that official complaints from candidates include allegations that college students are being pressured into voting for Jeenbekov. During a stump meeting in the Naryn region on September 22, Babanov articulated his concerns in more detail. "In every village, in every district, mayors and other public officials are working with the population, campaigning," he said. Among the officials that have publicly endorsed Jeenbekov are deputy prime minister Duishenbek Zilaliyev. Calls for his resignation for abuse of authority have gone unheeded. In an even more egregious case, documented in a secretly produced recording, a teacher at the Kyrgyz State Law Academy can be heard threatening students with expulsion unless they vote for Jeenbekov. Prosecutors say they have initiated a criminal case over the incident. Babanov also complained that he had been reprimanded by election officials about some of his election posters, which vote organizers said featured pictures of people who had not given permission for their image to be used. "In one photo there are two people looking at me. One of them is then Osh governor [and rival candidate] Jeenbekov, and the second is a minister of emergency situations that I appointed myself. Before any campaign material is produced it has to be approved by the Central Election Commission. They themselves authorized me to put up these posters, and [later] they issued me with a warning," Babanov told the crowd in Naryn. Political consultant Svetlana Moldogaziyeva said that surveys indicate that Babanov is drawing support from younger voters, in the north, where his following is greater, as well as in the south. Jeenbekov is presumed to be hugely favored by administrative elites, but his association with the incumbent ruling party could act against him, Moldogaziyeva opined. "There are now a lot people set against Jeenbekov. They are not opposed to him personally. Rather, they are against the ruling authorities, which they have gotten sick of. And yet Jeenbekov is, in fact, actually quite measured, restrained and reliable. But young people prefer somebody more energetic, like Babanov," Moldogaziyeva said. Moldogaziyeva speaks for an indubitably huge cross-section of the electorate, however, when she expresses disparagement for the entire process. "It is clear that we are not choosing the most deserving candidate - just the lesser of two evils," she said. Copyright notice: All EurasiaNet material Open Society Institute Uzbekistan: Cotton Slave Labor Out, Human Rights Ombudsman In? Publisher EurasiaNet Publication Date 25 September 2017 Other Languages / Attachments Russian Cite as EurasiaNet, Uzbekistan: Cotton Slave Labor Out, Human Rights Ombudsman In?, 25 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5c09f4.html [accessed 15 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. Just as the annual cotton-picking season entered its most intense phase in mid-September, the government made a surprise announcement to recall students and state workers from the fields. Shortly before midnight on September 21, Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov held a Cabinet meeting in which he instructed officials to implement a government decree, apparently adopted over a month earlier, to put a stop to forced labor for the harvest. Reporting on the news, Tashkent-based website Gazeta.uz quoted directly from the decree. "It is categorically forbidden to forcibly deploy anybody under the age of 18, as well as workers in the educational and health sector, during the 2017 cotton harvest," the document, approved on August 8, stated. The use of forced labor - mostly state-sector workers and students - has been a regular feature of cotton harvests in post-Soviet Uzbekistan. The practice in recent years drew widespread criticism from Western governments and watchdog groups, especially the use of school-age children in the cotton fields. It was also a source of massive disruption for schools and some basic social services. Within hours of Aripov giving his command, busloads of students and civil servants were reportedly being brought back home from the cotton fields. "They woke us up at 3 am and announced we were going home," one student told Gazeta.uz. "At five, we were already in Navoi (a city 470 kilometers west of Tashkent) and now we're back in class." Similar stories came from students in the Kashkadarya region. Beyond the government's possible concerns about conforming to basic human rights practices, a student from Navoi who got in touch with RFE/RL's Uzbek service, Radio Ozodlik, speculated that the motive behind the decision was that a delegation of European observers was expected to travel to Uzbekistan imminently. "The authorities are afraid, that is why they dispatched the students to the cotton fields in secret. But what was all this in aid of?" the student wrote. Those skeptical of the government's sincerity on this matter question why it was that the authorities had until last week failed to properly implement its August 8 decree. Umida Niyazova, head of the Uzbek-German Forum for Human Rights, speculated that the demobilization may have been prompted by comments about forced labor made by the president of the World Bank, Jim Yong Kim, in discussions with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. A World Bank statement issued on September 20, after the meeting between Kim and Mirziyoyev, indeed suggested that this encounter proved a turning point. "Kim recognized progress in eliminating systematic child labor, but he also stressed that ongoing comprehensive efforts to end adult forced labor must produce similar strong and rapid results. President Mirziyoyev expressed his commitment to end all forms of forced labor and provided a guarantee that as president he would ensure unannounced and unaccompanied visits by International Labor Organization monitors across Uzbekistan," the statement said. Niyazova said that international rights organizations have for many years been lobbying for the World Bank to take a stronger line on forced labor and to make ongoing financial assistance conditional on Uzbekistan's compliance with global norms concerning child labor and basic rights. "The World Bank was strongly resistant. They invested in Uzbekistan, even when there was mass child labor. Ten years ago, they were not especially concerned by the situation. They have only started to talk now, after suffering blows to their reputation," Niyazova told EurasiaNet.org. With international pressure apparently making itself felt, Mirziyoyev even went so far as to mention the issue of forced labor in his September 19 address to the UN General Assembly. The cotton-harvest demobilization generated a wave of happy reactions on social media websites in Uzbekistan. A news report published by the Uzbek-language website Kun.uz generated more than 300,000 views - a vast amount by local standards. But elsewhere, the website injected a note of caution, asking rhetorically; "and who will gather the cotton now?" One proposal is that farmers can enlist the unemployed, including from the ranks of a body created by the Union of Youths of Uzbekistan - a successor to the Soviet-era Komsomol - to help jobless young people earn money by doing seasonal jobs. This association, which features somewhat militaristically called Self-Sacrificing Youth Units, has around 51,000 members at present. New rules are creating more incentives to get involved in the backbreaking task of harvesting cotton. On September 25, the government published a 10-day old decree detailing the amount of fees to be paid to cotton harvesters. At the start of the harvesting season, workers would be paid 450 Uzbek sum ($0.055) per kilogram of raw cotton gathered. After October 1, the fee would have to go up to 500 Uzbek sum per kilo. Payments to laborers will have to be made weekly, or even daily, depending on the circumstances, according to the decree. Warming to the emerging rights theme, Mirziyoyev proposed during his September 18-20 visit to the United States that Uzbekistan could even host a permanent representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. He also suggested holding an Asian forum for human rights in the city of Samarkand. Talking to reporters at the National Press Center in Tashkent, Akmal Saidov, head of the government-backed National Center for Human Rights, suggested that Uzbekistan aspires to put its poor rights record behind it, and strives to become a regional leader on rights issues. "Now, Uzbekistan is not in the position of having to defend itself. Earlier they criticized, and we defended ourselves and responded. Today, Uzbekistan is coming out with [an] initiative on human rights, and not just on a national level but on a global level too," Saidov said. For all this euphoria, Uzbekistan's actions are still far from meeting the hopes and expectations of watchdog activists. Authorities, meanwhile, remain somewhat wary of foreign rights organizations. Saidov noted, for instance, that Human Rights Watch is still unable to resume its activities in Uzbekistan due to a Supreme Court decision in 2011 to liquidate the organization's local office. "Nobody has reversed this decision, and we have to settle this matter in legal fashion through the Justice Ministry," Saidov told Podrobno.uz. Copyright notice: All EurasiaNet material Open Society Institute Azerbaijan: Scale of LGBT Persecution Is Rising Lawyer Publisher EurasiaNet Author Durna Safarova Publication Date 27 September 2017 Cite as EurasiaNet, Azerbaijan: Scale of LGBT Persecution Is Rising Lawyer, 27 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5c2044.html [accessed 15 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 September 22, a 19-year-old man, an aspiring fashion designer who currently works in a cosmetics shop, was walking in the center of Baku. Another man - young, good-looking and well dressed - approached him and tried to start a conversation. "He pretended to be gay and told me he had an apartment nearby, and invited me there," said the designer, who asked that his name not be used. "At first I tried to ignore him, but he was persistent and eventually I admitted that I was gay." As soon as he did that, the designer recounted to EurasiaNet.org, another man appeared and the two grabbed him by the arms, pushed him into a car, and took him to the police station. After 12 hours of detention, he was forced to sign documents that he was not allowed to read, and to pay a fine of 150 manats (about $88). Since then he stopped going to work and walking outside alone or after the dark. "The police warned me that next time they see me they'll arrest me again," he said. "I've become paranoid, if someone is just looking at me, I'll walk the other way." Dozens of similar incidents have occurred in Azerbaijan since September 15, with gay and transgender people rounded up on the streets, in homes, and in bars across the city. Advocacy groups say at least 100 people have been arrested in the wave of raids. EurasiaNet.org was able to obtain information about at least 46 individuals who have been detained. Police have acknowledged the raids and have given varying justifications, from protecting public morality to isolating people with sexually transmitted diseases. "The main reason for such raids was the numerous appeals from the residents of the capital. People complain that such people walk around us, walk in our streets, and sit in our cafes. 'These are people who do not fit our nation, our state, our mentality, please take action against them,'" said Ehsan Zahidov, spokesman for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in an interview with EurasiaNet.org. Zahidov would not say how many have been arrested in the raids, but said that of those detained, six had AIDS, and of those, five also had syphilis. Earlier reports in pro-government media had said all of those arrested had STDs. "This once again proves that both our citizens' concerns and the actions we take about it are justified. It is important for the health of our people," Zahidov said. "Those who have diseases are being isolated from society." The head of the AIDS Center of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Health said that police have not brought any suspects to the center to be tested, as the law requires. "Maybe detainees have been examined in other hospitals, but only the AIDS Center can confirm an AIDS diagnosis," said the center's director, Natig Zulfugarov, in an interview with EurasiaNet.org. He added that, according to the law, police are not supposed to force suspects to gets AIDS tests without a court order, which did not happen in this case. There are few LGBT groups working openly inside Azerbaijan, and most advocacy organizations conduct Azerbaijan-related work from abroad. Many of the LGBT people in Baku interviewed by EurasiaNet.org complained that the community had no strategy and coordination, and no hotline to call in case of trouble. Many have tried to appeal to Western embassies for help, but with little success. "Some of the embassies told that we can't help, because we don't want to make your government angry," said one local LGBT man who has taken up the role of a sort of ad hoc spokesman for the community since the raids began. "We don't know what to do." No embassies or governments have issued public statements concerning the recent crackdown. "We are concerned about reports of the detention and ill treatment of individuals on dubious charges," a spokesperson for the United States Embassy in Baku told EurasiaNet.org. "The United States condemns the targeting of people on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity." "We haven't received any recent requests for support, but we follow the situation closely, and we are aware of recent reports regarding arrests of LGBT people," the British Embassy told EurasiaNet.org in a statement. A group of six lawyers has been trying to provide legal assistance to those arrested. They have all been charged with the same crime, disobeying a police order. Most have been sentenced to 20 days in detention but some were fined and released, said Samad Rahimli, one of the lawyers coordinating the effort. Lawyers have agreed to represent 46 of those charged and are appealing to the Baku Court of Appeals. Four of those appeals have already been rejected and the Appeals Court is expected to rule on the others in coming days. "These sorts of raids happen periodically," Rahimli said, adding that "this time the scale of persecution has grown." According to Rahimli, there is no legal justification for the arrests. "The legal proceedings against them originated from a discriminatory motive, rather than legitimate public interest. In addition, they have been subjected to ill-treatment, including torture, inhumane or degrading treatment during both administrative arrest and detention," Rahimli said. Police have not responded to allegations of torture; Zahidov, the police spokesman, hung up on EurasiaNet.org before he could be asked about the claims. Many of those arrested have not taken advantage of the legal help because they have not come out, and are afraid of the reaction when their relatives find out that they are gay. Some, especially those already shunned by their families, feel they have nothing to lose. One transgender man, speaking to EurasiaNet.org, described how he had been kicked out of his home in a small town, and now lives a precarious existence in Baku. He is a tailor by trade but complains of job discrimination because of his sexuality. He has at times been homeless, and occasionally does sex work, soliciting clients on the side of the road, which is what he was doing when police accosted him and a friend on September 17. He got away, but his friend was arrested. Now, he said, Baku's LGBT community is lying low and waiting. "It is a kind of curfew for gay people," he said. "Right now it is 22:00, but I'm scared to go out and buy something to eat. I look out the window, everyone is walking, everyone is fine. But not us." Copyright notice: All EurasiaNet material Open Society Institute Libya: Islamic State Still Holding Out Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Alexander Sehmer Publication Date 12 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 19 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Libya: Islamic State Still Holding Out, 12 October 2017, Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 19, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5c6e84.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Fighters with Islamic State (IS) are clinging on in Libya despite the loss of their stronghold in Sirte last year. The country's continuing political crisis has given the extremists time and space to regroup. In the last few months, IS fighters were spotted manning checkpoints on the coastal road from Sirte, where they have carried out kidnappings (Libya Observer, September 3; Middle East Eye, September 7). IS' own publication, al-Naba, claimed its fighters had seized parts of the road between Sirte and Nufaliya around the same time. On October 4, IS claimed responsibility for a coordinated attack on a court building in Misrata at least four people were killed and several others were injured. The attack may have targeted the head of the court, Assadik Badi. One report quoting a defense ministry spokesman indicated that the attack was in response to comments Badi had made about IS (Libya Herald, October 4). Meanwhile, Hashem Abedi, the younger brother of the Libyan-British national who carried out an attack in May on concertgoers in Manchester in the United Kingdom, remains under arrest in Tripoli. The authorities accuse him of having planned to carry out attacks in the capital. He is reportedly linked to the arrest last month of a Tripoli-based imam, who was detained over allegations that he used his mosque in the capital to seek out IS recruits (Libya Herald, September 11). IS built up its operations in Sirte between 2015 and 2016, with analysts warning that the city could become the next base for the group after Mosul and Raqqa. The group was eventually forced out in December, defeated by Libyan forces loyal to Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj, led by a militia from Misrata and backed by U.S. air power (Africa News, December 5, 2016; al-Jazeera, August 11, 2016). U.S. Africa Command estimates that there are now only 500 IS fighters active in Libya. However, while the collapse of their stronghold was a setback, IS is yet to be fully defeated in Libya. The jihadists' numbers have been reduced, but many of those who escaped Sirte have started to regroup near Bani Walid in the desert areas southeast of Tripoli. IS fighters are also reportedly sharing resources with al-Qaeda, in contrast to other parts of the world where the two organizations are at loggerheads, and Libya's neighbors are weary including Chad, which temporarily closed its border in January, concerned that migrating jihadists might flee into its territory (Africa News, January 6). Nearly a year after it was defeated in Sirte, IS is reappearing in Libya. Without a resolution to the country's political stalemate, too little attention may be being focused on them. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Saudi Arabia: Critics and Clerics Jailed Publisher Jamestown Foundation Publication Date 12 October 2017 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Saudi Arabia: Critics and Clerics Jailed, 12 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5c79a4.html [accessed 15 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. Saudi Arabia has rounded up and jailed a number of Islamist clerics in recent weeks, many with alleged links to the Muslim Brotherhood (al-Jazeera, September 13). However, the clampdown betrays an element of state paranoia, and appears to be more of an effort to prepare for the eventual handover of power from King Salman bin Abdulaziz to his son, Crown Prince Mohammed, than an attempt to tackle radicalism. The arrests - they have included arrests of those with ties to the Islamic Awakening, an antigovernment movement that emerged in the Kingdom in 1990s - are part of a wider crackdown that has included businessmen, artists and academics (al-Bawaba, September 13). The authorities have attempted to portray some of those detained as part of a foreign-directed spy ring, but those held have all in some way been critical of the authorities over the years. Among them are clerics with wide popular appeal - two of the most prominent, Salman al-Ouda and Awad al-Qarni, are effectively religious celebrities and have millions of social media followers. The Saudi authorities want to silence their critics, and they have rounded up some of the loudest among them. Although, as the journalist Hassan Hassan points out, the fault of some of them lies partly in not being vocal enough when it comes to their country's dispute with Qatar (The National, September 13). The International Union of Muslim Scholars (IUMS) condemned the clerics' arrests and called for their release, a call Riyadh ignored, not least as the IUMS is headquartered in Doha and headed by the Qatar-based Egyptian Islamist cleric Yusuf al-Qaradawi (al-Jazeera, September 13). Saudi Arabia views Islamists within its borders as the country's main domestic threat, but while al-Ouda and al-Qarni, who were both influential in the Awakening movement back in the 1990s, have fallen foul of the law in the past over their political activities, they are probably best characterized today as former radicals. Extremist Islamist threats do exist in Saudi Arabia, and these require the government's attention. Ahead of the crackdown, the authorities reportedly arrested Islamic State sympathizers preparing to carry out a suicide bombing in Riyadh (Khaleej Times, September 12; The National, September 12). The recent clampdown on the government's Islamist antagonists, however, is more likely about gaining greater domestic political flexibility. It may also have made it easier for Saudi Arabia to finally reverse its ban on women drivers, a much-needed social reform - albeit one that only takes affect from June next year - which came hard on its heels (al-Jazeera, September 27). Meanwhile, al-Qaeda made reference to the crackdown in the 16th issue of its al-Nafeer publication, posted in Arabic and English on Telegram, urging its supporters in Saudi Arabia to rise up against the authorities. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Moscow Bribes Bishkek to Stop Kyrgyzstan From Changing to Latin Alphabet Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Paul Goble Publication Date 12 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 128 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Moscow Bribes Bishkek to Stop Kyrgyzstan From Changing to Latin Alphabet, 12 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 128, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5c80c4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Kyrgyzstan is not the poorest post-Soviet state, but it is the recipient of more Russian money than any other (Turantoday.com, October 11). And Moscow's payments appear to have purchased at least one thing Moscow very much wants: Bishkek has put off for perhaps two decades or more any shift from the Cyrillic alphabet to the Latin script. Notably, all the other Turkic countries that emerged after the collapse of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) have already taken or are in the midst of implementing this script changea regional trend that Moscow fears and hopes to slow or even reverse. For many outsiders, Moscow's concerns about the alphabets used in the non-Russian portions of the former Soviet Empire seem overblown. But from the Russian perspective, they are a central element of its vision not only of what Russia is but also what the world around it should be. After the Bolshevik revolution, the Soviets transitioned the Turkic nations of the USSR from the Arabic to the Latin script. This policy was undertaken not only because the central government in Moscow believed it would be easier to educate people using the Latin script, but also to cut these nations off from the Muslim East, which continued to use Arabic. Then, under Joseph Stalin, the USSR took the next step, changing the alphabets of the Turkic peoples from Latin- to Cyrillic-based ones in order to integrate them with the Russian majority of the Soviet population (Newsland.com, April 16). When the Soviet Union disintegrated, the Turkic peoples who acquired independent statehood quickly explored the possibility of returning to the Latin script, something the Turkish government in Ankara promoted in order to extend its vision of a broader Turkic world. Two of the five post-Soviet Turkic statesAzerbaijan and Turkmenistanmoved almost immediately to do so. They were followed a few years later by Uzbekistan, which has made less progress in this direction. Until recently, Moscow assumed that the Turkish wave had crested and was receding; Russian representatives promoted the idea that even those countries that had shifted to the Latin alphabet should now return to the Cyrillic fold. But that confidence was shattered earlier this year when Nursultan Nazarbayev, the president of Kazakhstan, announced that his country would begin the process of moving to the Latin script and complete the adoption of this alphabet within the next decade (Egemen.kz, April 26; Azattyq.org, April 12). The Kazakhstani president argued that using the Latin script would not only integrate his country more closely with other Turkic nations but also that it would allow Kazakhs to take more immediate advantage of the Internet world, an enormous proportion of which is in English. Not surprisingly, Russians in Moscow and in Kazakhstan have come out against the move, viewing it not so much as a leap toward modernity or simple national justice than as an effort to cleave Kazakhstan off from the Russian world (Regnum, October 11). And since Kazakhs and Kyrgyz share so much in commonboth are descended from nomadic peoples and speak closely related languagesAstana's move sparked renewed interest in alphabet change in Kyrgyzstan. Moscow, in turn, began to worry that soon there might not be a single Turkic republic still using the Cyrillic alphabet. The alphabet issue has been the subject of discussions in Kyrgyzstan since the 1990s, but in contrast to other Turkic countries, it was not a central one until recently. Most of the elite used Russian more often than they used Kyrgyz and consequently had little interest in making the shift. Moreover, they certainly knew that doing so would invite Russian displeasure and even a reduction in Russian aid, which the hard-pressed Kyrgyz Republic could not afford (Kokshetau Asia, October 6). Nonetheless, the attractiveness of the Latin script for Kyrgyz speakers meant that the cause of alphabet change gained new adherents after Nazarbayev's moves in neighboring Kazakhstan. Kanybek Imanaliyev, a Kyrgyzstani deputy, took up the cudgels for such a shift, noting that it was needed in order to ensure "the development of contemporary technology, communication, education and science." His only concern was that Bishkek lacks the money to make the change; consequently, he proposed planning to make the shift but putting off Latinization until the 2030s or even 2040s (Kokshetau Asia, October 6). Others involved in this discussion have taken the same line: Gulmira Duisheyeva, a linguist at the American University of Central Asia, and Chorobek Saandanbekov, a Kyrgyzstani activist who led the effort to have Kyrgyz become a language on Google, agreed. They have suggested that the experience of other Turkic countries in general and of Uzbekistan in particular shows how difficult and expensive making any change would be (Kokshetau Asia, October 6). Not surprisingly, Moscow, the primary source of foreign aid for Kyrgyzstan, has gained the whip hand when the issue is defined in this way; and thus Kyrgyzstani officials appear to be backing away from any moves to make a change. Speaking at the Altay Civilization Forum, Kyrgyzstan's President Almazbek Atambayev declared there is not going to be any change in scripts anytime soon (Kokshetau Asia, October 6). What is most important here, however, is not a lack of desire on the part of the Kyrgyz people but rather their lack of funds. And that in turn carries with it an important message for Moscow: If it ever stops funding Bishkek at its current rates, Kyrgyzstan will likely follow its other Turkic counterparts and transition to the Latin script. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Ukraine Struggles to Retain Presence in Azov Sea With Plans for New Canal Around Crimea Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Ridvan Bari Urcosta Publication Date 12 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 128 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Ukraine Struggles to Retain Presence in Azov Sea With Plans for New Canal Around Crimea, 12 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 128, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5c8c74.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website By finalizing the construction of the Kerch Bridge (see EDM, September 6), Russia is completing its geopolitical project of fully cutting the Crimean Peninsula-which it illegally annexed in March 2014-off from mainland Ukraine. Russia's chief gains from this effort are first of all to obtain direct road-and-rail access to Crimea without having to cross Ukrainian territory. Second of all, Moscow's de facto control of both sides of the Kerch Strait, combined with its activities that limit freedom of navigation for Ukrainian vessels there, essentially turn the Azov Sea into a "Russian lake." As such, Russia is progressively pushing to deprive Ukraine of its economic and political sovereignty in and around the Azov Sea. Ukraine and the West have several potential options to countervail Russian preponderance in the Azov Sea. First, Ukraine can try to send naval forces, preferably together with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) vessels, in order to enforce Kyiv's freedom of navigation rights through the Kerch Strait and in the Azov Sea, where Ukraine's strategically important ports of Mariupol (Mariupil) and Berdyansk are located. Indeed, even the Washington-based Atlantic Council recently called for such freedom-of-navigation operations by the United States Navy (Pravda, September 2; Atlanticcouncil.org, August 29; Interlegal.com.ua, April 4, 2016). Such actions, however, would presumably be incredibly confrontational for Moscow and could even erupt into a military incident between US and Russian forces in the area. A more peaceful solution for Ukraine, therefore, would be to find an alternative waterway to reach the Azov Sea. Indeed, this is Kyiv's second option: to build an artificial alternative waterway-the "Syvash Canal"-to access its Azov Sea ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk. Reportedly, this idea was offered already in 2015 by Ukrainian engineering company UkrHydroProject (Ukrop, April 1, 2015). The initial proposal was to construct a canal 120 kilometers long, 100 meters wide, and 15 meters deep across the Perekop Isthmus (just north of occupied Crimea), which is controlled by the Ukrainian authorities. Such a waterway would effectively turn Crimea into an artificial island. For years, this idea was referred to mainly on pro-Russian websites. However, in 2017, the proposed canal project popped up again as an "electronic petition" on the official website of the president of Ukraine (President.gov.ua, August 29). Nevertheless, the project's feasibility is probably relatively low because of Ukrainian state's difficult financial situation and a lack of clear political will from its politicians. In the meantime, Ukraine has announced it intends to send the hopper dredger Meotida and the icebreaker Belousov to the Azov Sea in order to deepen the maritime ports of Berdyansk and Mariupol (Vpk-news.ru, September 14). Plans for dredging excavations in the Azov Sea date back to August 2015 (Mtu.gov.ua, August 2015). The sudden decision to send in these ships likely stems from Ukraine's offer to welcome US military naval vessels for port calls along the Azov coast, or it could also be somehow related to the US maritime operations center being set up in Ochakov (Riafan.ru, September 14). In addition, Kyiv may want to test Moscow's reaction and see whether or not Russia will allow the dredger and icebreaker unfettered passage through the Kerch Strait (Blackseafleet-21.com, September 16). Current tensions regarding the Sea of Azov are not the first time Russia and Ukraine quarreled over this body of water. In 2003, a territorial dispute broke out over Tuzla Island, in the middle of the Kerch Strait. Ultimately, both sides found a temporal solution and signed an accord the same year, but neither Russia nor Ukraine officially adopted the document. The status of the Azov Sea, according to international law, is rather vague, particularly because the 1936 Montreux Convention does not cover it. Thus, the main guarantors of security of this sea are Ukraine and Russia, although the pivotal principle of freedom of navigation there and via the Kerch Strait remains in place. Back in 2015, a group of Ukrainian parliamentarians broached the possibility of Ukraine withdrawing its adherence to the 2003 bilateral accord with Russia (Gordonua.com, July 16, 2015). For now, however, Kyiv is still willing to behave according to the principles enshrined in this document-that is, that both states have a say in the passage of third countries' naval forces into the Azov Sea (Interlegal.com.ua, April 4, 2016). Ukrainian concerns over its dwindling control over the Azov Sea are difficult to address in the current circumstances, and the following issues directly impact this situation: First, any attempts by NATO or the US alone to enter to the Azov Sea could likely trigger a belligerent Russian reaction. Second, building the Syvash Canal north of Crimea for merchant and military vessels to enter the Azov Sea is essentially impossible in the near term because of political uncertainty in Kyiv and lack of funding. Third, another way of countervailing Russia's dominance in the Azov Sea is with a so-called "Mosquitoes Fleet" strategy, whereby the main element of the navy becomes small, agile vessels (see EDM, March 9). This type of force structure is particularly suitable for the Azov Sea, which has a depth of no more than 14 meters. Unfortunately, Ukraine has limited facilities to build such vessels after losing access to the important More shipyard, in Feodosia (Crimea). Despite this, Ukraine is actively building small, armored Gurza-, Kentavr- and Lan-class boats. A serious problem will be how to transport those vessels to the Azov Sea if Russia blocks Ukraine's passage through the Kerch Strait. One option could be to deliver the ships overland by train or assemble them in Berdyansk or Mariupol. Fourth, if Ukraine fails to act, it could be entirely deprived of its Azov coastline in a year or two, and left with maritime access only between Ochakov and Odessa. This would result in further harm to the Ukrainian economy: prior to 2014, Azov ports handled 12 percent of Ukraine's shipping, and this proportion has already dropped to just 9 percent (Eir.pstu.edu, May 26). Fifth, Russia is gravely concerned that Ukraine could try to sabotage the Kerch Bridge using unconventional or special forces. Sixth, in order to avoid a direct conflict with Ukraine, Russia will likely utilize Donbas separatist forces and their access to the Azov Sea. Part of this strategy appears to be the formation of a Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) naval force in Novoazovsk (Ostrov, February 29, 2016). In such a complex environment, Kyiv will need to act carefully but decisively if it does not want to lose its access to the Azov Sea over the coming months and years. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Who Provoked the Clashes Between Local Armenians and the Georgian Police? Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Giorgi Menabde Publication Date 13 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 129 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Who Provoked the Clashes Between Local Armenians and the Georgian Police?, 13 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 129, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5c9aa4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website On September 30, Georgia's minister of interior, Giorgi Mgebrishvili, urgently traveled to Samtskhe-Javakheti, a region on the country's southern border. Most of the residents of this area are ethnic Armenians, though they hold Georgian citizenship (Jam-news.net, October 2). The minister flew by helicopter to the village of Kumurdo (Gumurdo, in Armenian), where the unique 10th century Resurrection Church is located. The purpose of Mgebrishvili's trip was to calm Kumurdo's population and stop the violence that began after local Armenians tried to break into the church yard to erect an "Armenian cross-stone" (khachkar) on the grounds (Imedinews.ge, September 30). The town's Armenians were protesting what they saw as hasty restoration work of the Resurrection Church, which is being carried out by the National Agency for the Protection of the Cultural Heritage of Georgia (NAPCHG). The residents of Kumurdo were convinced the Georgian restorers were disregarding the bodily remains of Armenians buried in the church yard. Therefore, they demanded permission to erect a khachkar at the grave site. Security around the church prevented them from entering the territory, but eventually the residents broke through the fence and stepped into the church courtyard. At that point, law enforcement stepped in with batons to try to disperse the crowd. In response, the protesters pelted the police cars with stones. Several people on both sides received minor injuries. The police detained several of the Armenians, but they were dismissed after Interior Minister Mgebrishvili successfully intervened and calmed the situation. Nonetheless, the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs initiated an investigation into the incident under charges of "hooliganism." A khachkar installed in the courtyard of the Kumurdo Resurrection Church would symbolize that this place of worship belongs to the local ethnic-Armenian community. But Georgian historians consider this church to be part of the cultural heritage of Georgia. Indeed, Georgians and Armenians have disputed each others' claims to this historic church for a long time. Gela Saitidze, a professor of the Institute of History and Ethnology at Tbilisi State University, told this author that he visited Kumurdo several times in the 1960s. And already then, ethnic-Armenian residents of the town were calling this church "Armenian." "But there are a lot of Georgian inscriptions in the church, which confirm that the Kumurdo church is a legacy of Georgia, built in the era of Georgia's unification under the rule of the Bagrationi dynasty," Saitidze asserted "Some radical residents of the village do not want to listen to rational scientific arguments," the academic declared. Furthermore, he stressed, that no serious Armenian historian has ever questioned that the Kumurdo church is Georgian and not Armenian. "By erecting a khachkar, the radicals [sic] want to assign [their own national symbols to] the Georgian church, and then turn it into a symbol [of Armenian identity]," Saitidze argued (Author's interview, October 7). After Interior Minister Mgebrishvili spoke to the crowd to calm the situation, the residents left the territory of the church and restoration work immediately resumed (Imedinews.ge, October 1). The following day, the Patriarchate of the Georgian Orthodox Church held a special meeting with the participation of representatives of Georgia's Armenian Diocese. A joint statement was published on the website of the Armenian Diocese that states Armenia and the Armenian Apostolic Church have no claims on the Resurrection Church, in Kumurdo. The Georgian side, in the same statement, committed itself to take care of the Armenian individuals who had been laid to rest in the church's courtyard (Armenianchurch.ge, October 3). An employee of the NAPCMG, Beka Baramidze, said in an interview with this author that the agency "will firmly continue the course for the restoration of the [Resurrection Church]," adding, "This is our political position: the project for the restoration of the church will be brought to an end, but we will carefully study the proposals of scientists on the architecture of the dome of the church and we will not rush in this matter. It may take several more months to complete the work." He agreed with the opinion that over the past 25 years, the work on the rehabilitation of this historic place of worship was hampered not only by scientific, but also by political problems-that is, the position of the local Armenian population (Author's interview, October 7). This month's incident at the Kumurdo church marked the first time in the history of independent Georgia that open clashes broke out between Georgian police and the country's ethnic-Armenian community. As such, the story provoked a vocal public response, including on online social networks and in the Georgian media. Experts have been debating the question of who was responsible for provoking the local Armenians to challenge the notion that the Kumurdo church is part of the cultural heritage of Georgia-and who might profit from such inter-ethnic and inter-religious discord. The Samtskhe-Javakheti region borders on Armenia and Turkey. Former Georgian politician and Caucasus expert Mamuka Areshidze pointed out that only ten years ago, the regional capital of Akhalkalaki hosted a large Russian military base. "Many Armenians served on this base and in the contingent of Russian troops, including residents of the village of Kumurdo. The Russian command even established a special post-a deputy command r for working with the local population." Areshidze noted that Russian special services actively recruited "agents of influence" among of the local Armenian population as well as distributed weapons to Armenians, which accumulated in large numbers in Kumurdo and other Armenian villages of the region. "Therefore, the village of Kumurdo is one of the most crime-ridden in the whole region," Areshidze underscored (Author's interview, October 7). The Armenian government and the Armenian embassy in Georgia have not yet commented on the events in Kumurdo. This may indicate that Yerevan agrees with Tbilisi's position on this issue. Moreover, Georgia and Armenia are interested in preserving good-neighborly relations. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Changing Face of Governance in Dagestan or New Security Challenge for Moscow and the Region? Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Nurlan Aliyev Publication Date 13 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 129 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Changing Face of Governance in Dagestan or New Security Challenge for Moscow and the Region?, 13 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 129, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5cad94.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Russian President Vladimir Putin named Vladimir Vasilyev acting head of the Republic of Dagestan, on October 3, replacing Ramazan Abdulatipov, who had resigned a week earlier (Kremlin.ru, October 3). Until now, Vasiliyev served as the deputy head of the State Duma and was the parliamentary leader of the ruling United Russia party. Since the 2000s, the Kremlin has habitually replaced the heads of Russian regions just before or after elections (the upcoming presidential election is scheduled for March 2018). Yet, Dagestan's strategic geographic location, multi-ethnic society, clan system, and the presence of radical religious movements there heavily complicates the issue for Moscow and for the broader Caucasus region. Moreover, since the 1940s until Vasilyev's appointment, the top post in Dagestan had never been held by a non-representative of a local ethnic group or by a non-Muslim. Although Abdulatipov linked his resignation to his advanced age, he later alluded to "people in Moscow" sometimes imposing "not very popular decisions on the president" (Budkav.ru, September 28). Most probably, his low approval rating, numerous conflicts with local clans and continued high levels of corruption in Dagestan contributed to his replacement. After Abdulatibov resigned on September 27, tensions between local political and oligarchic groups for the vacant position grew (Govorit Moskva, September 27). Several factions in Moscow also wanted to gain the vacant post for their proteges. Meanwhile, the delay in the new appointment compounded the uncertain situation (Tvrain.ru, October 3). A number of candidate names began appearing in the media (RBC, September 27). But ultimately, Putin's nominee was unexpected (Kremlin.ru, October 3). The decision to go with Vasiliyev was attributed to Putin's distrust of local Dagestani elites (Kavpolit.com, Kavkazr.com, October 4). The Kremlin may have focused on Vasilyev in order to try to establish some sort of equilibrium among local groups in Dagestan. The new acting head has no strong ties to any ethnic group or clan in the republic and this facet might help him to maneuver between those local groups. However, the success of his governance will directly hinge on how he manages his relations with these groups. This will clearly be a difficult political task in a Russian region as multi-ethnic and clan-dominated as Dagestan. On the other hand, the nomination of Vasilyev might mean Moscow is planning to further ramp up its anti-terrorist efforts in Dagestan. The North Caucasus republic's large unemployed young population and persistent economic problems mean there is a large pool of potential recruits for radical Islamist and militant groups to draw from. Vasiliyev who has professional experience in security and anti-terrorism efforts might be tasked with prioritizing terrorism prevention above all other governing tasks (President.e-dag.ru, Riaderbent.ru, October 7). Earlier this year, the Russian authorities officially confirmed that more than 1,000 Dagestanis have joined the ranks of the Islamic State in the Middle East (Interfax, January 31). Although the number of terrorist attacks decreased during Abdulatipov's term as republic head, most likely this was mainly thanks to many of those local radicals traveling to Syria. But after the Islamic State is entirely defeated in Iraq and Syria, many of those fighters might return to Russia, which could trigger a hazardous situation in Dagestan (see EDM, January 29, 2015). Such developments might threaten security in the South Caucasus, too. A number of ethnic groups in Dagestan straddle international border areas with Azerbaijan and Georgia. As a result, an increase in militant activity in Dagestan could easily leap across state boundaries, as has happened before. Indeed, Azerbaijan and Russia have specifically established cooperation in anti-terrorism and border security. Although the full demarcation of the state border between Azerbaijan and Russia is yet to be completed, cooperation between the two country's border services is already in place (Fsb.ru; Dsx.gov.az, August 12, 2017; 1news.az, July 28, 2014). Moreover, Russia and Azerbaijan's security organizations cooperate in the fight against terrorism (Haqqin.az, January 18, 2016). Azerbaijan has strong historical, cultural and economic relations with Dagestan. An ethnic-Azerbaijani population exists in Dagestan, and various communities of Dagestani ethnic groups reside in Azerbaijan. Even before the establishment of the Dagestan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (ASSR) in 1921, mutual relations between Dagestan's and Azerbaijan's elites and peoples already existed. Later, between 1942 and 1948, Aziz Aliyev, the grandfather of Azerbaijan's incumbent president, Ilham Aliyev, served as the first secretary of the Dagestan Regional Committee of the Communist Party. Since 1991, relations between the governments of the two republics have played an essential role in developing bilateral affairs. Although Baku did not welcome Abdulatipov's participation in the so called "Union of Billionaires," which was established in Russia to influence the 2013 presidential election in Azerbaijan, relations between the Azerbaijani government and Abdulatipov's administration were normalized in subsequent years (Kavkazsky Uzel, November 22, 2012; Sputnik.az, December 26, 2016). The appointment of a new head of Dagestan and whatever his attitude toward the Azerbaijani minority in the republic turns out to be are obviously important issues for Baku. However, Moscow will almost certainly continue to play a leading role in shaping future relations between Azerbaijan and Dagestan. Another issue with strategic importance for the Russian government in Dagestan is the realization of the Avar-Kakheti road project, linking Dagestan to eastern Georgia (see EDM, July 27). Although Georgian officials refuse this project, most likely Russia will continue to press Tbilisi for realization of the Avar-Kakheti highway (Apsny.ge, July 17). Obviously, the new head of Dagestan can be expected to support Moscow in its efforts to achieve this goal. If Vasilyev fails to pacify tensions among Dagestan's clans and cannot normalize the economic conditions in the republic, the situation there will continue to deteriorate. The implications of this could trigger security threats not only in Dagestan, but also across the wider region-both north and south of the Caucasus Mountains. Vasilyev can always be replaced. But in fact, this outsider may have been chosen precisely as a temporary place holder, to be supplanted by a native Dagestani candidate after some period. Whatever the Kremlin ultimately decides to do, clearly a new political experiment has begun in one of the most volatile regions in Russia. And the results-positive or negative-could impact the security situation far beyond Dagestan's borders. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Arms and the King in Saudi-Russian Relations Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Stephen Blank Publication Date 11 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 127 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Arms and the King in Saudi-Russian Relations , 11 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 127, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5cce04.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Vladimir Putin described Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's visit to Moscow as "momentous" (see EDM, October 10; RIA Novosti, October 5); and it certainly was. In similar fashion, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov commented that the Saudi monarch's visit constituted a "turning point in relations," which takes the relationship to an entirely new level (Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, October 4). One area that truly represented a momentous turning point was arguably the agreement between the Russian and Saudi governments to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) stating Russia's intention to sell Saudi Arabia the S-400 anti-air missile defense system as well as to open a Kalashnikov factory in the Gulf country. Putin, in fact, had hinted that a major deal was forthcoming in his earlier appearances (Kremlin.ru, October 4). If the arms deal took observers and officials in the United States by surprise, it is nevertheless part of a larger geostrategic mosaic in which Riyadh, as Russian experts noted, had to acknowledge Moscow's importance as an arbiter of multiple Middle Eastern issues (notably Syria) and depart from what they called the "dogma" of counting solely on Washington (Valdaiclub.com, October 7). The arms deals, though by no means the only consequential agreements reached in Moscow, are naturally of particular importance because they represent the first time Moscow has been able to make inroads into the Saudi market and gain access to that country's Armed Forces. Of course, it may yet transpire that the S-400 will not actually be sold to Saudi Arabia, because the parties only signed an MoU, not a binding contract. Nevertheless, that deal and the building of a Kalashnikov plant do represent a serious intrusion by Moscow into what had been a Western and especially US preserve with regard to arms sales. In this respect, therefore, the S-400 deal, whatever its final outcome, is "momentous." The regional repercussions of these arms deals are also noteworthy. First, despite the fact that recent US legislation would mandate or at least justify sanctions on Riyadh for agreeing to buy weapons from Russia, the State Department nevertheless announced the approval of the sale of the THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Air Defense) missile system to Saudi Arabia on October 6, one day after the S-400 announcement in Moscow (Al-Monitor, October 9). This decision by Washington would appear to justify the suspicion that Riyadh used the Russians and the signed MoU as leverage over the US to end its procrastination over the THAAD sale to Saudi Arabia. A second factor suggesting the S-400 sale will never actually materialize-or if it does, will not do Saudi Arabia much good-is the fact that Moscow recently announced that even though Turkey had contracted for and begun paying for Russian deliveries of the S-400, "We [Russia] will not give them any of the electronic codes or 'internals.' Under the agreement, technical servicing will only be done by Russia and they [the Turks] will not gain entry to the systems," a Russian military source told Gazeta.ru. Moreover, Ankara will not even obtain those systems until Moscow finishes deploying them at home and selling them to China and India (Russiafeed.com, October 9). Consequently, Saudi Arabia should not expect to acquire this system before 2021 or 2022. Furthermore, the S-400's quality relative to THAAD and whatever newer systems emerge by then might not be particularly commendable. Nor is it likely that Saudi-US ties will suffer greatly in the long term, even though the totality of the deals made in Moscow-and the arms sales, in particular-constitute a real slap in the face to Washington. In evaluating the impact of these sales, it is clear that Saudi Arabia wants protection against Iran and its air force and perhaps potentially against Israel, too-although at present, that relationship is at its peak, albeit a tenuous one. Inasmuch as Saudi Arabia is fighting Russian- and Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen and is challenging Iran across the Gulf, prudence in the face of an Iranian threat is more than justified. Moreover, in a sense, the use of arms deals to bring Russia closer to Saudi Arabia or the lure of money to be made through such deals is merely an extension of traditional Saudi diplomacy. However, air defenses will not do much to curtail the threat of the Houthi rebels in Yemen or to prevent Iran from extending its sway in Syria. Indeed, Saudi Arabia essentially agreed Bashar al-Assad will remain in power once Syria is reconstituted within its full boundaries and with a functioning state. Notably, as the head of the Saudi Consultative Committee's Foreign Affairs Council, Zahir al-Harithi, stated, Russia's presence in the Middle East will contribute to the creation of a balance of power and resolve complex regional issues (Sputnik News, October 9). That is hardly something the US or its other Middle Eastern allies are likely to welcome as a factor for stability, especially since Moscow will not restrain Iran. Indeed, although the Russian government assured Israel it would seek to restrain Iran in Syria, no such promises came out of the talks with Saudi Arabia (Times of Israel, September 12). Thus, is that a situation with which anyone can or should feel comfortable? Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation The Fall of a Jihadist Bastion: A History of the Battle of Mosul (October 2016 July 2017) Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Brian Glyn Williams & Robert Troy Souza Publication Date 12 October 2017 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, The Fall of a Jihadist Bastion: A History of the Battle of Mosul (October 2016 July 2017), 12 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5ce2f4.html [accessed 15 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. Islamic State's (IS) greatest conquest was its bold June 2014 seizure of Mosul, Iraq's second largest city and home to approximately two million predominately Sunni inhabitants. For almost three years, IS dug in to defend this strategic stronghold and the site of the declaration of the IS khilafah (caliphate) by Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the self-styled "Caliph Ibrahim" (al-Jazeera, July 6, 2014). When a U.S.-backed coalition of jostling Kurdish Peshmerga, Iranian-backed Shia militias and Iraqi Security Forces made up of 114,000 troops launched "Operation We are Coming Nineveh" on October 16, 2016, they knew they were in for a bloody slog to dislodge IS fighters who had "worm-holed" the city, creating tunnels through buildings and building extensive defensive barricades. [1] They were not mistaken in this assumption, and for nine months the allies battled their way first through modern east Mosul, then through the warrens of older west Mosul on the opposite side of the Tigris. The fighting cost thousands of lives on both sides and saw IS deploy suicide bombers, off-the-shelf drones armed with IEDs, snipers and human shields. However, with the tactical use of U.S. artillery in the form of HIMAR (satellite-guided rockets with small warheads) and "air artillery" guided to their targets by local and American Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs), the allies fought their way to the historic al-Nuri Mosque, where al-Baghdadi had declared his caliphate three years earlier. On July 10, Haider al-Abadi, the Iraqi prime minister, declared victory over the "false Caliphate," and the Iraqi half of al-Baghdadi's theocracy all but collapsed, even as the terrorist group mutated back to its original insurgent roots to continue its reign of terror. The Prelude to Mosul On June 6 2014, IS launched a raid that was initially intended to be a jihadist version of the 2003 American "thunder run" into Baghdad. Their goal was to strike numerous targets with massive suicide bombings as a bold statement against the Shia government of then Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki (al-Arabiya, June 12, 2014). But when the much larger Shia-dominated government force defending this Sunni town collapsed and fled with very little resistance, the surprised IS fighters seized control of the city, their greatest conquest thus far. It was obvious that the United States and its allies would not allow IS to retain control of such a strategic and symbolic prize, but Mosul would be the largest city yet that the U.S.-led coalition attempted to wrest from the so-called caliph's grasp, and it took nearly three years to prepare. As the Iraqi army approached from the south and Kurdish militias advanced from the north and east, satellites, drones and spies made it apparent that IS had not been idle. Following a holy template set by the Prophet Mohammed's successful defense of Medina in the Battle of the Trench in 627 AD [2], the outnumbered jihadists dug trenches and underground tunnels, blasted holes through the walls of buildings, established sniper posts on rooftops, piled cars in streets as barricades and turned Mosul into a massive defensive bastion The fanatical defenders realized that the Americans would play a key role in the impending attack to overcome such obstacles. The United States had been shocked by IS's bold 2014 conquest of Mosul, and President Barack Obama (who had been elected, to a considerable extent, off the back of his promise to end the blood drip of American lives in what he called the "war of choice" in Iraq) decided to officially intervene later that summer. Thus, the proxy campaign to "degrade and destroy" IS, ultimately dubbed Operation Inherent Resolve, was born. Obama ordered Green Berets, who served as spotters on the ground, to embed with the Kurdish, PKK-linked Peoples Protection Units (YPG) in Kobane and Hasakah in northern Syria. They were also stationed with Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) and Kurdish Peshmerga fighters in Iraq to act in a "training and assisting role" as "force multipliers." The president's surrogate approach to war aimed to destroy the IS caliphate without costing American soldiers' lives. Obama was well aware of the widespread unpopularity of President George Bush's Operation Iraqi Freedom, which had cost America approximately 4,500 lives and over a trillion dollars, and he intended to use local forces to do the fighting in the back alleys of jihadist-occupied cities like Fallujah, Ramadi and ultimately Mosul. Events would show that Obama's "stand off" approach to waging war in the Middle East was effective. Ultimately, IS would be pushed back from controlling an area larger than Britain, with eight million inhabitants under its control, all the way to Raqqa, an inconsequential backwater town in the middle of the Syrian desert where the terrorist group is currently making its fiery last stand. Once Obama ordered supplies to be dropped to outgunned Kurds in the northern Syrian town of Kobane in the fall of 2014, the "ever-expanding caliphate" that IS proclaimed after its inexorable conquest of one third of Iraq and Syria began to recede (Rudaw, October 20, 2014). Obama also supported the Kurdish defenders with precision-guided bombings and put considerable pressure on a reluctant Turkish government to allow reinforcements in the form of heavily armed Kurdish Peshmerga forces from northern Iraq to cross to Kobane through Turkey (Sabah, October 21, 2014). The defense of Kobane - the Kurds described it as their "Stalingrad" - was the first test of Obama's "stand off" strategy, which relied on surrogate forces in the region to fight IS, instead of directly putting Americans in harm's way (Rudaw, January 19, 2015). History would show it was an astounding success. By the time IS was repulsed from Kobane at the end of January 2015, after taking unsustainable loses, the jihadists officially acknowledged for the first time, via their Amaq news agency, that their fighters had been defeated. The defeat of IS in Kobane proved to be a decisive turning point and, with the U.S. air force supporting their movements, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish and Arab fighting unit dominated by the YPG, pushed IS out of an area in northeastern Syria about the size of Massachusetts. By mid-2016, the Kurds had created a proto-state known as "Rojava" that consisted of three separate cantons: Jazira, Kobane and Afrin (al-Monitor, March 1, 2016). American-backed SDF forces have, as of the time of writing, moved further south and conquered 90 percent of the IS capital of Raqqa and are poised to defeat the remaining 2,000 IS militants holed up there (SOHR, September 20; ARA, August 6). Meanwhile in Iraq, Iraqi Security Forces, once again backed by the might of U.S. Central Command's air armada, fought to the west of Baghdad and retook the heart of Sunni Iraq, namely Fallujah and Ramadi, the original base for IS. Iraqi forces loosely aligned to the Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Unit (PMU) militias also moved northward and conquered another Sunni bastion, former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein's hometown of Tikrit, on April 1, 2015. Having deprived IS of its strongholds in the Sunni Triangle, it was time to focus on Mosul. Breaching the Jihadists' Lair By October 2016, the pieces were in place for a coalition of Iraqi government forces, supported by U.S. special forces (primarily the Green Berets Fifth Group, as well as artillerymen and trainers), Shia militias from the PMU and Kurdish Peshmerga fighters coming from the east to move on Mosul. The Tigris River bisects Mosul, and the Coalition forces began their assault on the city's more modern eastern side. The ISF advanced from the south while the Kurdish forces moved in from the east in the rural villages and northern plains of Nineveh, where the jihadist defenders burnt tires to create clouds of drifting smoke that would conceal their positions from the ever-present Predator and Reaper drones and U.S. bombers. It was here that Coalition forces had their first encounter with one of the IS fighters' greatest psychological and tactical weapons - suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (SVBIEDs). Despite the losses they suffered in the outskirts of eastern Mosul from SVBIEDs and snipers, the Coalition forces moved forward inexorably and reached the city's eastern gates in the Gogjali district by November 1, 2016. There they began their first probes into the city. Now the real battle would commence between a force of outgunned and encircled by IS militants numbering somewhere between 3,000 and 12,000, and an uneasy alliance of Arabs and Kurds bent on eradicating all traces of IS in Iraq. [3] In November 2016, Coalition forces on the ground supported by U.S. B-1 Lancer, F-16 Fighting Eagle, F-18 Hornets and B-52 Stratofortress bombers began to tentatively probe IS positions. Here they encountered a complex set of defenses. IS defenders used everything from forcefully recruited child soldiers, known as the "Cubs of the Caliphate," to booby-trapped houses with explosives capable of blowing up a whole platoon to halt the advance. In addition to these tactics, IS deployed off-the-shelf drones, which could spy on enemy movements and even drop improvised explosive devices. The jihadists also corralled thousands of terrified civilians to be used as human shields and deployed a vast array of seemingly endless suicide bombers, including those in cars that hurtled into enemy troops at an estimated rate of 14 per day (CTC Sentinel, April 14). Support From Above Although U.S. attention switched to Donald Trump's presidential victory and his inauguration on January 20, 2017, the proxy war started by his predecessor three and half years earlier continued building momentum. The culminating battle of Mosul would be either a vindication of Obama's strategy, or its greatest setback. By this time, the troops on the ground were making significant progress, including the American "ghost soldiers" moving furtively through the lines of Coalition forces and calling in airstrikes. Despite official statements that U.S. ground troops were not on the frontlines, according to the Kurds, Green Berets were in the thick of things calling in close airstrikes that acted essentially as "airborne artillery." [4] Time and again hard-pressed Kurdish Peshmerga, Iranian-backed PMU Shia militias and the ISF - including the elite Golden Division fighters, who wore skull masks, some inspired by the Marvel comic book character "The Punisher" - were able to rely on this air support in the form of JDAMs (satellite-guided munitions) dropped by fighter-bombers or, GPS-guided artillery strikes from High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARs). The U.S.-backed Coalition of jostling and often hostile allies also made use of American-supplied M1-Abrams tanks, Humvees and TOW wire-guided anti-tank missiles - used against SVBIEDs - and light infantry weapons to punch through street after street to reach Mosul University on January 14, 2017. With the five bridges that link the two sides of Mosul destroyed by the Coalition, the IS fighters, made up mainly of foreign die-hards, could expect no reinforcements. Although eastern Mosul was not officially declared liberated until January 24, 2017, four days after Obama's departure from office, the victory was a parting gift to the Obama administration, which had loosened the rules of engagement for JTACs in its final months (Military, February 24). However, the victory was darkened by the fact that advancing troops often found civilian corpses hanging from lamp posts, burnt and beheaded bodies left by fleeing IS troops in mass graves and a landscape of homes that had been reduced to rubble, forcing approximately one million civilians to flee for their lives. Despite the atrocities and the damage to the city, eastern Mosul was liberated from terrorist rule and IS was clearly in retreat by late January 2016. Compounding its defeat in Iraq, by the fall of 2016, the group had also lost its fallback wilayat (province) in Libya, based in the city of Sirte - its "Raqqa on the Sea" - to a coalition of anti-IS Libyan militias backed by U.S. special forces and air support. While the battle for western Mosul would continue for six more months under the Trump administration, by the time President Obama handed over the three-and-a-half-year war, the departing president could take credit for the fact that 180 top IS leaders had been killed in 17,000 airstrikes. IS had lost 30 percent of its territory in Syria and 62 percent in Iraq, and had seen its oil production and export destroyed in a bombing campaign known as Operation Tidal Wave II. [5] The number of fighters in IS' ranks had also been reduced from 31,000 to approximately 12,000. Continuing with the battle plan that had already been carefully put in place by U.S. Central Command, the Coalition forces prepared for the final battle for Mosul across the Tigris River. Western Mosul was made up of a labyrinth of medieval-era infrastructure, narrow streets and densely packed neighborhoods. With the black flag of IS, the Rayat al Sawda (Banner of the Eagle), still defiantly flying over the famed al-Nuri Mosque, the Coalition made its way across the Tigris River on pontoon bridges and began to drive into the west. The Conquest of West Mosul Since October 2016, the Kurds had been advancing from Kurdistan into the Makhmur region northeast of Mosul. By February 14, 2017, when the move into western Mosul began, the Peshmerga offensive had already been brought to an end -they never actually entered Mosul city itself. The Kurds established defensive berms to protect their troops from SVBIEDs and effectively annexed the areas to the north and east. For all their hatred of IS, the Peshmerga had no desire to fight an urban battle for an Arab city that would ultimately lie outside what they considered to be their own state of Kurdistan. [6] Meanwhile, in Mosul, IS reacted to the ever-present "air artillery" that supported Iraqi troops by increasing the use of thousands of human shields. That technique was in evidence in the Jidideh section of west Mosul on March 17, 2017. As Iraqi forces were advancing, two IS snipers began firing at them from atop a nearby building. Spotters on the ground contacted the Erbil-based command center and requested immediate air assistance. But when an American aircraft targeted the snipers with satellite-guided munitions, the entire building collapsed because IS had been using the building as an ammunition storage facility. More than 100 Iraqi civilians were killed in the attack on the booby-trapped building, and news of the incident provoked international outrage. Despite this public relations setback, the Coalition forces continued the advance and, by June 2017, had encircled the famous al-Nuri Mosque. By this time, al-Baghdadi had gone into hiding somewhere between Syria and Mosul. Even so, it was clear by June 2017 that his claim to have established an "ever-expanding, ever-victorious" transnational theocracy was hollow. As his "state" on the Tigris collapsed, Iraqi troops took to bulldozing buildings with IS fighters holed up in them in order to avoid further casualties. In a final act of spite and defiance, the surrounded jihadists trapped in one square mile of Old Mosul, stunned the world by blowing up the al-Nuri Mosque. The building had stood as a symbol of the 12th Century Seljuk atabeg (governor) Nur ad-Din Zengi's success in repulsing Western crusaders. Ironically, Zengi had had the al-Nuri mosque built to celebrate his triumph over Western foes. As the smoke cleared, on July 9, 2017, Prime Minister al-Abadi arrived in Mosul to proclaim the liberation of Mosul to his people (Twitter, July 9). The battle for IS' greatest prize was officially over, but in Mosul, the victorious (largely Shia) Iraqi troops sought to avenge the deaths of the approximately 1,500 Shia Iraqi army troops gunned down during the IS jihadists' massacre at Camp Speicher in Tikrit on June 12, 2014. They threw captured IS fighters off buildings or shot them in extrajudicial executions. Many of those summarily executed were Sunni insurgents who had been previously captured by the Iraqi authorities, but had subsequently been liberated by IS assaults on Iraqi prisons in the summer 2013 - this was part of a campaign that Baghdadi had dubbed "Breaking the Walls." While IS still controls al-Qaim on the Syrian border, with the conquest of the Turkmen-dominated city of Tal Afar in the northwest and the liberation of Hawija in Kirkuk, the jihadist movement that began among disgruntled Sunnis after the 2003 invasion of Iraq has for the most part been suppressed. The final battle to obliterate the Syrian half of the so-called IS caliphate now lies in the hands of advancing Kurdish and Arab forces of the SDF, who have been heavily backed by 500 U.S. special forces and an artillery unit from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Force. Conclusion According to the Pentagon, as of August 7, 2017, about 70 percent of IS' territory in Iraq and 50 percent of its territory in Syria has been lost since August 2014, and the group's dream of a jihadist empire in the Middle East has been all but crushed in the process. [7] IS will doubtless continue to wage hit-and-run guerilla campaigns in Iraq and Syria of the sort that have already occurred in Mosul and most recently in the Shia south, where suicide bombers and gunmen killed 74 people near the town of Nasiriya at a checkpoint restaurant on September 14 (al-Arabiya, September 14). With Shias in control of Baghdad, home of the Abbasid caliphs that al-Baghdadi sought to emulate, and the Alawites in control of Damascus, the first Sunni caliphate of the medieval Ummayads, two of the Sunnis' most important historical centers are in the hands of what the extremists call munafiqs (hypocrites) or apostates. These festering issues remain, as does the sense of Sunni disenfranchisement in post-U.S. invasion Iraq following the empowering of the Iranian-linked Shia "Safavids" (a term used by Sunni extremists that refers to a fanatical Turkmen Shia dynasty in Iran). The pressure cooker has been capped for now with the suppression of the Sunni jihadist state-building project in Iraq, as it was under General Petraeus with the 2007 troop surge. Hoever, just as the IS rise out of the ashes of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi's suppressed al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) shows, the virulent form of Sunni jihadism he created has remarkable resilience and regenerative capabilities. The pot could once again boil over in the form of a new shamal (sandstorm) of violence like the one that emerged from the desert south of Mosul in June 2014. Al-Baghdadi, after months of hiding, issued a "proof of life" recording on September 25, in which he bemoaned the loss of Mosul to the "crusader air force," but stated: "The leaders of the Islamic State and its soldiers have realized that the path to victory is to be patient and resist the infidels" (al-Jazeera, September 28). IS is clearly mutating back to its original insurgency mode, and its resilient historical "re-enactors" take inspiration from the Quran and hadiths (Niqash, July 27). Its followers seek the fulfillment of prophecy and even accept that their "holy" movement will come close to extinction, before once again returning to power as predicted in the Quran. Most notably, they take heart in the words of the Prophet: "A victorious band of warriors from my followers shall continue to fight for the truth -despite being deserted and abandoned - they will be at the gates of Jerusalem and its surroundings, and they will be at the gates of Damascus and its surroundings." NOTES [1] It is worth noting that only Iraqi security forces would enter the city of Mosul. Peshmerga fighters were limited to seizing and securing areas on the outskirts, which they planned to garrison over the long term. Iranian-backed PMU militias focused more on isolating Mosul from the west to fill out the desert on the Syrian border, whereas non Iranian-backed PMU forces initially involved in breaching eastern Mosul were those raised from local micro-minorities such as Christians, Shabaks and Yazidis. [2] Based on the authors' monitoring of IS-related channels on the encrypted messaging app Telegram, the jihadists spoke frequently of reenacting this famous battle in Mosul. [3] Estimates vary depending on the source. At a US Defense Department briefing on October 17, 2016, Peter Cook told reporters there were an estimated 3,000 IS fighters in Mosul, while outlets such as ARA News placed the estimate much higher at 12,000. https://www.c-span.org/video/?417070-1/peter-cook-briefs-reporters-military-operations-mosul; http://aranews.net/2016/06/12000-isis-militants-fighting-mosul/ [4] Author interview with Masrour Barzani, Kurdish intelligence minister (January 12, 2016) [5] The numbers of airstrikes be found on the official Operation Inherent Resolve website, available here. Maps with the percentage of territory IS controls can be found on the Global Coalition Against Daesh website, available here. [6] Author interview with Falah Mustafa Bakir, Kurdish foreign minister (January 15, 2016). [7] See Pentagon statement (August 7, 2017). Available here. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Armenia Amends New Military Doctrine in Standoff With Azerbaijan Over Karabakh Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Eduard Abrahamyan Publication Date 11 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 127 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Armenia Amends New Military Doctrine in Standoff With Azerbaijan Over Karabakh, 11 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 127, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5cf094.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website At the Armenian diaspora's Sixth Pan-Armenian Forum, held on September 18-20, Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian declared that Yerevan was discussing the possible handover of some occupied territories back to Azerbaijan, in line with formerly accepted principles agreed upon by both sides in negotiations over Karabakh (Rusrminfo, September 18). Addressing the questions pertaining to Armenia's commitment to reaching a peaceful solution, Nalbandian made clear that the territories in question "constitute no threat to the security of Artsakh [formerly self-identified as the 'Nagorno-Karabakh Republic' " (Azatutyun, September 18). The minister's revelations sparked growing irritation within Armenian society, although the issue of territorial concessions is nothing new and is firmly enshrined in the Madrid Principles, which Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed to in order to help resolve the Karabakh crisis. Seeking to assuage the mounting domestic resentment, Deputy Foreign Minister Shavarsh Kocharyan provided additional explanations, asserting "nobody [was surrendering] any territory" and that the backlash was a deliberate misinterpretation of Nalbandian's remarks (Panorama, September 19). Instead, Kocharyan pointed to Armenia's toughened posture since the major escalation along the "line of contact" (LoC) in Karabakh, back in April 2016. He insisted no progress in negotiations would be possible without the creation of an incident investigation mechanism as an integral part of confidence-building measures, unanimously agreed upon at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's (OSCE) Minsk Group May 2016 Vienna summit (1in.am, September 20). However, last September's joint statement released by the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs actually failed to refer to the Vienna summit document (Osce.org, September 23). This omission, combined with Baku's reluctance to unequivocally endorse the Vienna document, has led to the view in Armenia that the Vienna agreements may ultimately prove irrelevant and thus unfeasible to implement. This nuance appeared all over the Armenian press and contributed negatively to Nalbandian's revelations. In addition, the Armenian foreign minister's statement coincided with Azerbaijani demonstrations of new arms procurements, which include Czech-manufactured artillery equipment, such as the DANA-M1 self-propelled 152-millimeter howitzers and RM-70 Vampir multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS) (Haqqin.az, September 18). Against this background, in conjunction with Azerbaijan's ongoing military drills to hone its large-scale offensive capabilities, Nalbandian's remarks were judged by many in Yerevan as, at the very least, inadequate. Indeed, the unprecedented fighting that erupted in April 2016 resulted in roughly 350 deaths and left Armenian society more sensitive and uncompromising in terms of future territorial concessions. Hence, Armenia's chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Movses Hakobian, sought to defuse the unease within society triggered by the foreign minister's comments at the Pan-Armenian conference. Touching upon this issue, Hakobian stressed that even insignificant territorial alterations to the "security belt [i.e. the occupied Azerbaijani provinces]" surrounding Karabakh might cause dramatic consequences for Artsakh's security. He said he could not imagine any kind of territorial handover by Armenia that would not jeopardize Artsakh's security, concluding, "we need new and better territories to ensure the security [of Artsakh]" (Armenpress, September 21). This viewpoint seems to be increasingly prevalent in the Armenian military's strategic mentality, suggesting that the Armenian side is prepared to expand the so-called "security belt" even deeper into Azerbaijan's territory, if the latter attempts to resolve the Karabakh dispute by military means. In this context, since 2015, Armenia is striving to adopt a concept of pre-emptive deterrence and modern warfare tactics (Azatutyun, February 18, 2016). Officially unveiled, in February 2016, by former deputy defense minister David Tonoyan, Armenia's so-called "Deterrence System" concept aims to decrease the intensifying incidents across the LoC in Karabakh (Mil.am, February 18, 2016). It seeks to undermine Azerbaijan's escalation dominance. The concept supersedes the Armenian military's obsolete Soviet-style "Static Defense" doctrine, and it opens the door to an Armenian pre-emptive strike in case an assault by the adversary is deemed to be "imminent" (Rosbalt, January 26, 2015). From Azerbaijan's perspective, the full-range implementation of Armenia's deterrence concept is a potential game changer and might result in a fundamental revision of Baku's escalation dominance strategy, which heretofore has mainly favored Azerbaijan. This development likely motivated the Azerbaijani leadership to undertake its "controlled" four-day intensive fighting in April of last year in order to nullify Yerevan's potential leverage stemming from pre-emptive deterrence. Although, as the author was advised by the Armenian defense ministry, an "active deterrence" concept is already in place and is undergoing additional elaboration. Therefore, at least theoretically, it could be applied if the Azerbaijani side pursues "controlled escalation" operations. Meanwhile, Baku's military-strategic planning is not difficult to discern: by leaving open the potential for an attempted military solution to the Karabakh problem, Azerbaijan has no option but to try to negate the effectiveness of Armenia's counter-offensive capabilities. Most importantly, a top concern for Baku is the security of its hydrocarbon infrastructure-currently exposed to Armenian ballistic missiles. To this end, Azerbaijan has reportedly embarked on deploying the Israeli-made Iron Dome air-defense and anti-missile system in Baku and Ganja in order to boost the security of the southeastern Caucasus country's strategic transportation and other communications infrastructure (Apsny.ge, September 21). And while Azerbaijan had announced military budget cuts for 2017, Armenia is boosting its defense expenditure by up to 17 percent for 2018 (PanArmenian, September 28). Even in the long run, Armenia will not be in a position to overtake Azerbaijani prowess in defense-related spending. Nonetheless, according to Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan, these funds, coupled with other extra-budgetary sources, will be devoted to new arms acquisitions (Razm.info, October 2). Finally, the Armenian rhetoric about using the Iskander-E ballistic missile systems to target Azerbaijan's hydrocarbon infrastructure if the latter launches a full-scale war serves mainly as a political tool of containment and is hyped heavily for domestic consumption. In reality, it is unlikely that the Armenian side would risk damaging the Azerbaijani portion of a transregional energy network that is of increasing importance for Europe's energy security, particularly amidst the lingering Russian-Western rift. Rather, "the defense army of Artsakh" might be tasked with taking effective control over some segment of Azerbaijan's energy infrastructure located in the strategic vicinity of the Karabakh LoC, but commanded to avoid any disruption to the functionality of those pipelines. This shift in strategic thought also fits Armenia's evolving "active deterrence" concept. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Russian Mercenaries Fight and Die in Botched Operation in Syria Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Pavel Felgenhauer Publication Date 12 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 128 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Russian Mercenaries Fight and Die in Botched Operation in Syria, 12 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 128, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5cff64.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website The advance into the oil and natural gasrich northeastern Syrian province of Deir el-Zour by forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad and supported by Russian bombing sorties has been heralded by the Kremlin as "a very important strategic victory." The besieged provincial capital of Deir el-Zour was relieved by September 5. Russian sappers built a 210-meter floating bridge over the Euphrates, and pro-al-Assad forces established a bridgehead on the north side of the river in an apparent attempt to capture oil and natural gas fields before they could be occupied by elements of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDFa militia alliance, including Arab and Kurdish fighters, backed by the United States). SDF fighters, together with US Special Forces moved into Deir el-Zour province following the left (northern) bank of the Euphrates, while pro-al-Assad forces, supported by the Russians, were moving in the same direction following the right (southern) bank of the river. Clearing out the Islamic State (IS) and taking over the entire province of Deir el-Zour is seen in Moscow as an essential step on the way to full victoryrestoring the rule of the al-Assad government over the entire country (see EDM, September 28). After the initial successes, the push by pro-al-Assad and Russian forces through the Syrian desert into Deir el-Zour ran into serious trouble in late September. IS fighters continue to hold parts of Deir el-Zour city and are resisting attempts by pro-al-Assad forces to expand their zone of control to other parts of the province. Mobile IS attack columns have been harassing the extended supply connection through the desert from Palmira to Deir el-Zour, reportedly inflicting serious casualties (Vz.ru, October 10). Footage of two Russians taken captive during a counteroffensive by IS forces in Deir el-Zour province were posted on the Internet by the terrorist group. The two were identified as contract fighters ("Cossacks"), reportedly employed by the notorious private military company (known in Russia as a Chastnye Voennie CompaniyChVK) "Vagner," which has been involved in combat operations in the Donbas region of Ukraine on the side of Moscow-backed rebels and in Syria. Both Russian prisoners were apparently executed by IS fighters (Novaya Gazeta, October 5). The Russian military boasted that the relentless aerial bombing campaign by the Aerospace Forces (Vozdushno-Kosmicheskye SilyVKS) "smashed the economic infrastructure of ISIS [Islamic State of Iraq and Syriaa former name for the Islamic State] in Syria, and the terrorists cannot extract or sell contraband oil," according to defense ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov. He added, "They [IS] cannot finance the procurement of arms and munitions or the recruitment of fighters; the Syrian army with the help of the VKS will surely smash ISIS in Deir el-Zour" (Militarynews.ru, October 10). The oil revenues from Deir el-Zour that the VKS reportedly denied the Islamic State could prop up al-Assad's government and somewhat relieve the financial burden on Moscow and Tehran, which have been sustaining the Syrian regime with money, troops and a constant flow of supplies. It has also been reported that the Russian company Euro Polis signed an agreement with Damascus to help free and guard terrorist-controlled oil and natural gas installations "in exchange for a quarter of future profits." The al-Assad government apparently also promised to pay in advance Euro Polis' expenses for freeing the Syrian oil and gas installations. Euro Polis has an office in Damascus and has allegedly solicited the services of ChVK "Vagner." Euro Polis is supposedly owned by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a Russian businessman from St. Petersburg and Vladimir Putin's personal chef (Novaya Gazeta, October 5). Igor Strelkov (Girkin)the former commander of pro-Russia rebels in Donbasposted a report quoting former "colleagues from the Donbas fighting" who are now with ChVK "Vagner" that in the last two weeks up to a hundred Russians have been killed in Syria, mostly in Deir el-Zour. Many more were apparently wounded. Most of the casualties have been mercenaries connected with ChVK "Vagner" (Newsader.com, October 11). Other reports confirm the heavy involvement of ChVK "Vagner" in fighting in Syria as well as the serious Russian losses during the recent IS counteroffensive. On September 23, the commander of the 5th Army in the Eastern Military District, Lieutenant General Valery Asapov, was reportedly killed in Deir el-Zour by mortar fire. The commander of the 61st Marines Brigade of the Northern Fleet, Colonel Velery Fedyanin, was wounded in Syria and later died in a hospital in Moscow (Novaya Gazeta, October 9). VKS bombers have been flying over 150 attack sorties a dayrunning at full capacity to suppress IS resistance. On October 10, an Su-24M bomber at Russia's main Syrian airbase of Hmeimim ran off the runway during takeoff, crashed and exploded. The bomber's fuel tanks were maximally filled since Deir el-Zour is located at the limit of the Su-24M's battle range from Hmeimim and the VKS does not have air refueling capabilities over Syria. Two naval bomber pilots perishedthe 40th and 41st fatality officially acknowledged by the Russian command in Syria. The Su-24M crash could have been the result of pilot error caused by battle fatigue (Kommersant, October 11). ChVK "Vagner" fighters call Syria the "Sandbox" ("Pesochnitsa"). They are paid about $2,500 (150,000 rubles) a month. In today's economically depressed Russia, this is good pay. Salaries for fighting in Donbas are much lower. The wounded may receive a lump sum of up to $15,000, and the families of mercenaries killed in action could be paid $20,00050,000 depending on rank and the circumstances of death. No medals, state pensions or special entitlements are ever awarded, howeverthe Kremlin denies any knowledge of or involvement in ChVK "Vagner's" activities. The equipment and weapons provided to ChVK "Vagner" fighters in Syria are often of dismal quality. The training of ChVK "Vagner" recruits is undertaken on Russian military bases but is not always adequate. The private military company is reportedly paid some $5,000 per month for each fighter it fields in Syria (Moskovsky Komsomolets, October 10). A desire to grab oil and gas assets, to make money, and help al-Assad win the Syrian civil war while aspiring to rush in before the SDF and US Special Forces enter Deir el-Zour have encouraged the Russian command in Syria to undertake a risky offensive and to deploy not only VKS bombers, but also Russian ground troopsregulars and contract mercenaries. This gamble has apparently led to heavy losses in men and equipment. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation The Favored Conflicts of Foreign Fighters From Central Europe Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Ryszard Machnikowski & Arkadiusz Legiec Publication Date 12 October 2017 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, The Favored Conflicts of Foreign Fighters From Central Europe, 12 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d0ab4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Relatively few jihadist fighters have originated from Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) by comparison to the number of fighters seen from Western Europe. The networks in Western Europe are far larger, and CEEC jihadists have frequently only embarked on their path to violence after migrating to Western European nations. However, while the number of CEEC-origin jihadists responding to the global call to fight in the name of the so-called caliphate is limited to the tens rather than the hundreds - and is likely to remain relatively small in the foreseeable future - there is another conflict that has proved to be attractive to fighters from Central Europe. Radicalized in Germany Christian (Krystian) Ganczarski, probably the best known of CEEC jihadists, was a convert to Islam who took up jihad in Germany. He had migrated there with his family as a young boy in 1970. Born in 1966 in a small town of Gliwice, Polish Silesia, Ganczarski belonged to an older generation of jihadist fighters, those who started their careers in terrorism within the ranks of al-Qaeda in the 1990s. In February 2009, a French court found Ganczarski guilty of masterminding the 2002 suicide bombing of a Tunisian synagogue on the island of Jerba that left 21 people dead. For this, he was sentenced to 18 years in prison. In a more recent case, Karolina R, a convicted jihadist, was born in a small town in Pomerania and migrated with her Catholic parents to Bonn, Germany, later converting to Islam. The 28-year-old was arrested in March 2014 in an apartment belonging to her parents in Bonn's Bad Godesberg district, where she lived with her 18-month-old son Luqman. In June 2015, Karolina R was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison in Dusseldorf for supporting jihadist fighters. She had provided financial assistance equivalent to EUR 11,000 (about $13,000) and three camcorders to her husband Farid S, an Algerian-born German Salafist who fought in Syria (DW, January 1, 2015). Karolina R had travelled with her husband to Syria in May 2013, but returned to Germany with their child that year and started fundraising for Islamic State (IS). Her husband used the camcorders she provided to produce propaganda films. One such film released in July 2014 showed him kicking the corpses of men killed in the Syrian city of Homs. Karolina R, who has German citizenship, did not contact Polish authorities during her trial in Germany. Karolina R's 20-year-old brother Maksymilian also went to Syria in May 2013 and stayed with her husband. He was also a convert and died fighting for IS near Kirkuk in Iraq in February 2015 (Fakt, February 5, 2015). Maksymilian was a fan of parkour and allegedly achieved a high level of proficiency in this activity while in Germany. He is probably the first Polish citizen known to have died fighting for IS. Although, he was soon followed by another Polish immigrant to Germany, 28-year-old Jacek S. His social background is very similar to that of Karolina R and her brother. Jacek S was born in Miastko, a small town in Polish Pomerania, but lived in nearby Kamnica. In 2005, he immigrated with his parents to Germany, where he lived in Gottingen and was granted German citizenship. In April 2016, he went to Iraq. Just over a month later, Jacek S drove a car packed with explosives into a security compound at an oil refinery near Baiji, north of Baghdad, killing 11 people and wounding 27 more (Wyborcza, August 12, 2015). Another Polish jihadist, Adam al-N, has been serving a four-year sentence in Jordan since September 2015 (RMF24, March 24). His mother was Polish and his father Palestinian. He has both Polish and Jordanian citizenship, but was born in Wolfhagen Germany. In October 2012, he went to Syria, joined Ahrar al-Sham and later al-Nusra, though he ended up within the ranks of IS. He was detained several times in Germany during his trips back and was later deported to Poland. In summer 2015, he gave an interview - the first by a Polish jihadist fighter - to journalist Witold Gadowski, trying to explain the motives standing behind his joining IS. He was subsequently arrested in Jordan a couple months later. [1] Domestic Troubles In each of these cases, Polish citizens converted to Islam and became radicalized only after their migration from Central and Eastern Europe. However, the most recent cases of Polish and CEEC jihadist fighters suggest that both the process of conversion and radicalization may have happen in Poland. Such are the cases of 25-years-old Dawid . (a.k.a. Abu Hanifa), and his peer, Jakub Jakus. Dawid . is still awaiting trial in a Polish jail, while the fate of Jakub is unknown -he allegedly died fighting for IS in Syria (INTERIA, July 20,). Both were born in small towns - Dawid in central Poland and Jakus in the eastern Poland. They both converted to Islam while in Poland. Dawid probably completed the process of radicalization in Norway, where he emigrated with his parents. According to the prosecution at their trial, Dawid and his wife Magorzata both went to Syria in winter 2014 and spent a year there. He joined a local Syrian militia allied to Jabhat al-Nusra near Aleppo, although he also allegedly attempted to join IS. When Dawid visited Norway in April 2015, he was detained by the PST, the Norwegian security services, at the airport and finally deported to Poland in September 2015. There he was arrested. Jakus joined IS and was wounded while fighting in Syria. There he married a local woman and was allegedly killed in action (TVN24, September 8, 2016). His conversion is believed to have taken place while he was attending a Catholic high school in the city of Lublin. He then moved to the Polish city of odz, where he entered his studies at the university there. While in Poland, he was a well-known Islamic activist within the ranks of the Muslim League. He paid a visit to Mecca in summer 2012. Upon returning from Saudi Arabia, he quit university and emigrated to Norway. There he was likely recruited with David through members of the local organization Profetens Ummah. From Norway, Jakus travelled to Syria in June 2013, with three other members of Profetens Ummah, one of whom later died there. On March 1, the SITE Intelligence group reported that a jihadist fighter known as Abu Khattab al-Polandi had been killed in Syria. A photograph of the dead fighter showed a young, bearded male with long blonde hair (Wiadomosci, March 2). He was not identified, though it is thought to have been Jakus. Both Jakus and Dawid were connected to a larger group of Salafists who travelled from Poland to Syria - some of them were born in Polish families, others were born abroad but with Polish citizenship (TVN24, August 27, 2016). Dawid 's upcoming trial will likely provide the public with more information on this "network" connected to one of Warsaw's mosques. The separate trial of a group of Chechens who were involved in fundraising and buying equipment for their "brothers" fighting in Syria is another example of Poland's jihadist networks (Onet, October, 27, 2016). Estimates of the number of Polish jihadist fighters varies between 20 and 40. However, this number could certainly be larger, as not all will be known to the security services. Nevertheless, the Polish authorities do not yet consider Polish jihadist fighters as posing a severe threat to the country's security. Jakub Jakus' Arrest Warrant The small number of cases means that overall the CEECs do not perceive returning jihadist fighters as a serious threat. Jan Silovski, a 22-year-old Czech from the small town of Trebic, was recently sentenced to six years in prison for attempting to travel to Syria to join IS (Novinky, July 13). He converted to Islam four years earlier, and he appears to have been radicalized through contact with jihadist propaganda online. According to Miroslav Mares, a Czech expert on terrorism: "What's interesting here is that, apparently, the man had no ties with the Muslim community and is an ethnic Czech. () In the 1990s, people like Silovsky might have become neo-Nazis. But today, it's groups like IS that seem to attract them." [2] In February, Silovski flew from Prague to Gaziantep in Turkey. He wanted to reach Jarabulus, Syria, which was then under IS control. During a stopover in Istanbul, Turkish police officers detained him, and ultimately the Turkish authorities returned Silovski to the Czech Republic. There he was investigated, charged and sentenced. Information is not yet available in open sources on Slovakian and Hungarian jihadist fighters, though Salah Abdeslam, one the Paris attackers, is known to have spent three weeks in the Slovakian city of Nitra in the summer of 2015. He reportedly was connected to Slovakia via one of his relatives, who had married a Slovak woman (Spectator, April 6, 2016). Also, a number of would-be fighters travelling to Syria via Hungary have been arrested there by counterterrorism authorities (France 24, January 14). A Battleground Closer to Home Global jihad is not the only option available to aspiring CEEC fighters. Their immediate neighborhood has a violent conflict that attracts hundreds of volunteers from across Europe - Ukraine. The Ukraine conflict has yet to draw the same number of foreign fighters that IS has managed to attract. Even so, approximately 17,000 fighters from 56 countries have already taken part in the conflict, more than 2,000 of them non-Russians. Following Russia's annexation of Crimea in March 2014, the first recorded instance of foreign fighters in Ukraine were the Serbian Chetnik Brigades, which were comprised of Bulgarians and fighting in support of the Russian forces. The factors that affect the influx of foreign fighters and their radicalization - whether fighting alongside Russian forces or against them - include the existence of extremist ideologies, the activity of paramilitary groups, the weakness of state structures and the geographic position of Ukraine. [3] Central European countries are directly adjacent and well connected to Ukraine. As a result, they have become transit countries for fighters who visit them for either recreational purposes or to promote their activities. Militants from Finland, Norway, France and Austria have traveled to Ukraine via Central Europea by air and land. A group of Chechens from Denmark crossed the Polish-Ukrainian border illegally in 2015, and in 2017 the Polish border police stopped Austrian Benjamin Fisher, who was wanted for war crimes in Ukraine. Fisher had previously fought in Syria and Iraq among the ranks of the Kurdish Peshmerga, and he had served in the Austrian military. [4] Moreover, some groups of foreign fighters in Ukraine, such as so-called Tactical Group Belarus, are organizing open meetings, crowdfunding campaigns and paramilitary training in Central European countries. Paramedic training by Tactical Group Belarus, Warsaw, 2017 Citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia - and indeed of Hungary, albeit on a smaller scale - form a distinctive group of foreign fighters in Ukraine. They are attracted by the geographical proximity of Ukraine, and benefit from having good knowledge of the internal situation in the country, as well as a relatively good knowledge of the Russian and Ukrainian languages. The main reason given by Polish fighters for taking part in the Ukrainian conflict is their personal feelings toward Russia or Ukraine. On the side of the separatists are those with pro-Russian views, who perceive Ukraine as being run by a neo-fascist regime. They emphasize the historical misdeeds of Ukrainians toward the Poles, chief among them the ethnic massacres of the 1940s. On the other hand, those who fight on the Ukrainian side perceive Russia as an existential threat to Poland and treat Ukraine as the frontline of a struggle against a common enemy. Ukraine is a popular destination among radical Polish right-wing organizations, such as the National-Radical Organization (ONR) and Great Poland Organization (OWP), as well as neo-fascist organizations such as Falanga, which underlines their desire to take up historically Polish territories from Ukraine such as Lviv. Czech and Slovak fighters who often form common paramilitary task forces in Ukraine share many common characteristics: a negative attitude toward the EU, NATO and liberal democracy; subscription to a pan-Slavic ideology; and military experience (many are veterans with experience from Kosovo and Afghanistan). Many Czechs are familiar with military service, having worked in their country's professional armed forces. Some are experts in martial arts - Pawe Botka, a mixed martial arts (MMA) professional, fought in a unit of foreign fighters on the side of pro-Russian separatists. [5] Many Slovaks fighting in Ukraine have military experience they acquired in the ranks of the Slovak armed forces. Additionally, some fighters have been convicted of criminal activity or of involvement in the activities of extremist political groups, such as Mario Reitjman, who has been frequently written about in the Slovak press. [6] In another instance, a Slovak fighter who wanted to take part in the conflict on the side of the separatists found that he required a Russian visa. Since he failed to qualify, he instead travelled to Ukraine and became a volunteer with the Azov Regiment, a group fighting against the separatists. While amusing, the story also serves to show how the conflict in eastern Ukraine attracts people whose primary interested is militancy, regardless of politics. [7] A Combination of Factors Participation of the CEECs' fighters in the Ukraine conflict is a culmination of many political, ideological, religious, ethnic and historical factors. Their presence in the conflict provokes a dangerous transnational social radicalization. It has the effect of strengthening transnational contacts between radicals and leads to the infiltration of foreign security services. It also results in negative social consequences such as increased instances of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or as those coming out of the Ukraine conflict term it "Donbass syndrome." Moreover, many of the foreign fighters in Ukraine are already experienced, having fought in other conflicts around the world. Many of them go on to join other battlegrounds - some have travelled on from Ukraine directly to Syria and Iraq. NOTES [1] Witold Gadowski, "Polak w szeregach ISIS - wywiad": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QF9qrp_-TYM&t=358s [2] Miroslav Mares quote from "Czech Is Sentenced to Prison for Trying to Join ISIS", by Jan Richter, (New York Times, February 24) [3] For more information about foreign fighters and the phenomenon of the "ideological traverse" in Ukraine, where Communists and Nazis fight "arm in arm" see: Arkadiusz Legiec, "Profiling Foreign Fighters in Ukraine - Theoretical Introduction", in: Kacper Rekawek, [ed.] Not only Syria? The Phenomenon of Foreign Fighters in Comparative Perspective. NATO Science for Peace and Security Series - E: Human and societal Dynamics, IOS Press, Amsterdam, 2017, http://www.iospress.nl/book/44928/. [4] Holmsted Larssen Chris, Danish Foreign Fighters: Past and Present Patterns. W: Not Only Syria? The Phenomenon of Foreign Fighters in Comparative Perspective. IOS Press, Amsterdam, 2017, http://ebooks.iospress.nl/volume/not-only-syria-the-phenomenon-of-foreign-fighters-in-a-comparative-perspective [5] Prague Monitor, Aktualne.cz: Czech man fighting among separatists in Ukraine. Prague Monitor (July 28, 2015) http://praguemonitor.com/2015/07/28/aktu%C3%A1ln%C4%9Bcz-czech-man-fighting-among-separatists-ukraine [6] Dennik, Slovenski zoldnieri na Ukrajinie, ich usilovni pomocnici a nase slovenske Kocurkovo. Dennik, (January 23) https://dennikn.sk/blog/slovenski-zoldnieri-na-ukrajine-ich-usilovni-pomocnici-a-nase-slovenske-kocurkovo/ [7] Rekawek Kacper, Czowiek z maa bomba. Wydawnictwo Czarne, Warszawa, 2017 Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Belarus Shows Three Important Signs of Change Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Grigory Ioffe Publication Date 27 September 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 119 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Belarus Shows Three Important Signs of Change, 27 September 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 119, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d1564.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Nothing is eternal under the moon. Indeed, Belarusian attitudes toward Russia, the country's meaningful other, are visibly shifting. Similarly, international opinions of Belarus's national leader are currently exhibiting signs of change. Even the Belarusian opposition is now undergoing a transformation of sorts. Russia's commanding position in Belarusian electronic media weakened around 2010, when three main Russian TV channels broadcasting in Belarus were turned into hybrid Belarusian-Russian stations. Today, the newscasts aired on these channels are exclusively Belarusian, and there are several Minsk-based talk shows; but 65 percent of the overall content is still produced in Moscow. "Whether or not you dilute Moscow TV channels, the 'Russian world' is still there," proclaims a recent article by the media expert Pavlyuk Bykovsky (Naviny.by, September 16). In response to this broader state of affairs, Yaroslav Romanchuk, a neoliberal economist and a 2010 presidential hopeful, warns Belarusian officialdom against practicing the approach "let us do it the way they do in Russia." According to Romanchuk, this approach is more harmful for Belarus than even ten Zapad 2017style war games in a row; he cites 12 reasons why this is the case, including that the leading Russian liberals of Boris Yeltsin's vintage turned out to be "wolves in sheep's clothing" (Salidarnasts, September 18). Whereas Bykovsky and Romanchuk share their ideas in opposition-minded media outlets, the main government daily Belarus Segodnya and the new discussion portal Sonar2050, entirely devoted to energizing the Russia-Belarus Union State, are on the other side of the barricade. Even so, the former has published an article that distances Belarus from hysteria surrounding the upcoming launch of the Russian movie Matilda, devoted to a love affair of Nicolas II, the last Russian tsar, and the ballerina Matilda Krzesinska. Instigated by the Russian Duma member Natalia Poklonskaya, the former chief prosecutor of Crimea, the campaign in Russia against the moviewhich she had not even seenhas strong religious overtones and has already led to acts of terrorism. For example, a driver of a van in Ekaterinburg rammed a movie theater, and Molotov cocktails were thrown at the film director's St. Petersburg office. As a result, major Russian movie theater networks declined to air Matilda out of fear for their property. "It is hard to believe," reads the article in Belarus Segodnya, "that events this crazy are unfolding not somewhere in Syria, where civil war is raging, but next door in democratic [sic] Russia." Such words as "stench of medieval times" and "Inquisition" appear in the article as well as a sense of satisfaction that unlike their Russian counterparts, Belarusian film distributors retain cold blood and will release the movie on September 26 (Belarus Segodnya, September 14). In turn, an article in Sonar2050 by the Belarusian historian Valentin Starichonok debates the idea, previously presented in the same portal, that in order to succeed, Russia should sideline its hidebound patriotism and formulate and promote its new global missionary project instead. Considering the economic realities of today, particularly the rise of China, whose 2015 GDP exceeded Russia's by a factor of eight, this idea is far-fetched, believes Starichonok. The author quotes an uncannily prophetic 1918 prediction from Nikolai Berdyaev: "After the decay of Europe and Russia, China and America will reign supremetwo powers that will be able to find points of convergence. The new realm of Chinese-American equality will then emerge that will preclude the rise and fall [of the others]." The same author also reflects on the 1935 poem "Kunlun," by Mao Zedong, with a geopolitical vision of the future, wherein Mao "did not notice Russia between Europe and China" (Sonar2050, September 19). Indeed, in that poem, Mao only envisions three world regions: Europe, the United States and the East (Poemhunter.com, August 10, 2012). Some noticeable changes are also occurring in the Belarusian political opposition. The most visible of them may be the dynamic growth of the "Speak the Truth" civic campaign (CTCC) that was registered in May 2017. This is the only affiliation of the opposition that, in the words of the aforementioned Bykovsky, practices "a non-zero-sum game" approach in its relations with the government; whereas the rest of the opposition embraces the utopian winner-takes-all approach and ends up with nothing as a result. In contrast, Andrei Dmitriev, the leader of the CTCC, proposes a strategy of small steps aimed at improving life in Belarus's regions and localities beyond Minsk (Naviny, August 3). Dmitriev's five-year plan also aims at introducing "democratic forces" at all levels of legislative and executive power in the country. The author of the plan believes that the ruling authorities are more ready for a dialogue with the opposition than ever before (Zapraudu.info, July 26). Some pro-government analysts observe that the "activities of the CTCC testify to its financial resources" (EurasiaExpert, September 18). Illustratively, Dmitriev and Tatyana Korotkevich, a 2015 presidential candidate, paid a visit to Minister of the Economy Alexander Zinovsky and discussed issues pertaining to small business development (Salidarnasts, September 6). Finally, international attitudes toward President Alyaksandr Lukashenka of Belarus also show signs of change. Lukashenka's popularity rating is no longer monitored on a regular basis because of the closure of the reliable polling agency that used to measure his public support quarterly (see EDM, September 6, 2016). And yet, Oleg Manaev, the founder of that polling firm, now living and working in the United States, recently posited that "Belarusian society itself legitimizes Lukashenka" (Deutsche WelleRussian service, July 11). Although Manaev deplores this situation, one can alternatively explain this state of affairs as harmony between society and its leader. In his turn, perhaps the most prominent Western Belarus watcher, David Marples, in an interview with the Belarusian Service of Radio Liberty, observed that Europe and the US "learned to put up with Lukashenka as the lesser evil." " 'The last dictator of Europe,' " Marples further suggested, "turned out to be not exactly the last one and perhaps not a dictatorat least not an accomplished one. And he leads a country in which a sense of statehood appears to be weak" (Svaboda.org, September 18). To be sure, to both scholars, Lukashenka is still a "bad guy." But while their pronouncements do not undercut this view per se, they challenge some crucial arguments that had been used to back it up since as early as 1995. Nothing, indeed, is eternal under the moon. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Syrian War and the Return of Zero-Sum Thinking in Russian-US Relations Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Pavel Felgenhauer Publication Date 28 September 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 120 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Syrian War and the Return of Zero-Sum Thinking in Russian-US Relations, 28 September 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 120, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d1ed4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Tensions flared between the United States and Russia, with Moscow's top generals and diplomats insisting that Washington is siding with terrorist groups in Syria to attack Russian soldiers and their allies. Russia's defense minister, Army General Sergei Shoigu, reportedly canceled a visit to Belarus last week (September 20), on the last day of the Zapad 2017 military exercise, because of the acute crisis in Syria (Kommersant, September 21). The main goals of Russia's air bombing campaign over Syria, which began on September 30, 2015, have been to defeat and force into submission the Syrian opposition, restore land corridors between different provinces, and allow Bashar al-Assad's government to retake control of major cities, like Aleppo in the north. In recent months, Syrian opposition forces were forced to sign ceasefire agreements and were corralled into four designated "de-confliction zones," the major one in Idlib province in northwestern Syria. In the summer of 2017, the Islamic State (IS) began to visibly collapse under relentless pressure from US-led coalition forces, losing most of the territories it controlled in Iraq. At the same time, its official capital, Raqqa, in northern Syria, has come under sustained attack by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a militia alliance including Arab and Kurdish fighters. Responding to the changing situation, Russian generals shifted their emphasis to the east, organizing a major push deep into IS-controlled territory by pro-al-Assad forces, supported by relentless Russian aerial bombardments and the deployment of additional Russian forces and advisors (Regnum, August 27). The aim of the advance through the Syrian desert was to relieve the garrison of Deir el-Zour on the banks of the Euphrates, besieged by the Islamic State for some three years, with part of the city controlled by the radical group and part by pro-al-Assad forces. The oil- and natural gas-rich province of Deir el-Zour, which borders Iraq, is a prime prize: Oil and gas revenue could prop up al-Assad's government and somewhat ease the financial burden on Moscow and Tehran, which have been sustaining the regime in Damascus with money, troops and a constant flow of supplies. Clearing out the IS and taking over the entire province of Deir el-Zour is seen in Moscow as an essential step on the way to full victory-restoring President al-Assad's rule over the entire country. On September 5, Shoigu personally briefed President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin that the siege of Deir el-Zour had been broken. The Kremlin press service described it as "a very important strategic victory" (Militarynews.ru, September 5). The chief of staff of the Russian forces in Syria, Lieutenant General Alexander Lapin, claimed, "Illegal armed formations have been cleared out of 85 percent of Syrian territory," and operations against "terrorists" will continue until total victory (RIA Novosti, September 12). After the initial breakthrough, pro-al-Assad forces fought to expand their control and fully oust IS fighters. At the same time, US-backed SDF militias moved into parts of Deir el-Zour city and province, on the northern banks of the Euphrates. Apparently, the Russian generals were infuriated by what they presumed was Washington trying to steal their hard-won victory. On September 7, a "military-diplomatic source" told RIA Novosti, "The US and the coalition it leads are actively supporting [the Islamic State] in Deir el-Zour and other parts of Syria." The US-led coalition rejected the charge (RIA Novosti, September 7). A high-ranking US diplomat told this author (on condition of anonymity) that US and Russian military authorities apparently reached a tentative understanding regarding the separation of zones of responsibilities in fighting the Islamic State in northern Syria to avoid clashes. The US and its allies will operate north of the Euphrates River, while Russia and its allies-to the south. But on September 18, pro-al-Assad forces crossed the Euphrates at Deir el-Zour. An extended bridgehead was established and a pontoon crossing established, apparently violating the de-confliction understanding with Washington (Interfax, September 18). The Russian military later disclosed that the 210-meter floating bridge over the Euphrates was built by Russian sappers who were rushed into Syria by air, together with the newest PP-2005 pontoon-bridge complex equipment, using heavy-load An-124 transport jets (Militarynews.ru, September 24, 26). It seems, the scramble to cross the Euphrates did not fully pay off. The SDF fighters, together with US Special Forces, were already there. Washington and Moscow and their proxies in Syria were on a collision course. On September 21, the deputy chief of the General Staff and chief of the Main Operational Directorate, Colonel General Sergei Rudskoy, accused "the US intelligence services" of organizing an attack by former al-Nusra "terrorists" near Hama, in central Syria, on pro-al-Assad forces and a Russian military police company that was policing a newly established "de-escalation" zone. According to Rudskoy, the main aim of this US-organized attack was to undermine the successful offensive in Deir el-Zour. The Pentagon rejected the accusation (Kommersant, September 21). The same day, defense ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov accused the SDF and its US Special Forces companions of firing on pro-al-Assad forces in Deir el-Zour. He threatened the Russian military may "wipe out" the SDF and US commandos if such attacks continue. The US-led coalition, meanwhile, accused the Russians of bombing the SDF. Both sides denied the other's charges (RIA Novosti, September 21). The Russian defense ministry published drone photos allegedly proving the SDF and US Special Forces had joined up with the Islamic State in Deir el-Zour (RIA Novosti, September 25). On September 23, a top Russian military advisor, Lieutenant General Valery Asapov, was reported killed in Deir el-Zour by mortar fire, together with two Russian colonels (Kommersant, September 25). Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov blamed "American double-dealing" for Asapov's death and also predicted the US would finance anti-government protests in Russia in the run up to presidential elections next March (RIA Novosti, Interfax, September 25). Washington and Moscow seemed on the verge of a direct military clash, but apparently took a step back following contacts through military channels. On September 27, strategic Tu-95MS bombers hit Deir el-Zour and Idlib provinces with long-range cruise missiles. The Tu-95MSs were escorted by Su-30 and Su-35 jet fighters, based in Syria. Evidently, the Russian military believed US jets could try to intercept the slow-flying bombers, assuming they may be targeting US Special Forces units. But this worst-case scenario did not happen, and Konashenkov assured journalists, "Not a single American was harmed" (Militarynews.ru, September 27). Still tensions continue to simmer. Washington and Moscow are becoming ever more deeply engaged in a worldwide zero-sum game, with no letup in sight. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Russia Tries to Conclude Its Syrian Venture Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Pavel K. Baev Publication Date 2 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 121 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Russia Tries to Conclude Its Syrian Venture, 2 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 121, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d29d4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website The working dinner in Ankara, last Thursday (September 27), between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin, was not a productive affair or a cordial meeting of minds. Erdogan announced it immediately after speaking with United States President Donald Trump in New York, so there were expectations of a new step forward in Turkey and Russia harmonizing the de-escalation and de-conflicting processes in Syria. But the two leaders, accompanied by their respective ministers of foreign affairs and chiefs of general staffs, failed to deliver: Putin announced that necessary conditions were in place for "ending the fratricidal war in Syria," while Erdogan merely mentioned "efforts to make the Idlib de-escalation zone operational." The Turkish president denounced the September 25 referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan as "illegal" and a "big mistake," whereas his Russian counterpart avoided this issue altogether (Kremlin.ru, September 28). Apparently, the "detailed and frank exchange of views" (in Putin's words) reduced rather than expanded the common ground between the two men (RBC, September 28). Predictably, the massive public desire for independence, expressed by northern Iraq's Kurds in last week's referendum, could potentially transform the entire geography of Middle Eastern conflictsand it has left Moscow in a distinctly dubious position (Republic.ru, September 27). The only official reaction has been a commentary published by the foreign ministry, which simultaneously expressed support for Iraq's territorial integrity and respect for Kurdish aspirations (Mid.ru, September 27). Media coverage has been generally positive and supportive of the Kurdish leadership's expressed willingness to negotiate. Though the Russian press was also full of speculation of possible new wars in the region (Gazeta.ru, September 29; Nezavisimaya Gazeta, September 27). Moscow is clearly interested in turning its traditional contacts with various Kurdish factions into an asset for its policy vis-a-vis its difficult quasi-allies Turkey and Iran (Russiancouncil.ru, September 28). The main problem with such opportunism is that Masoud Barzani, the key figure behind the referendum, and in particular the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) in Syria, are seen as key US military allies in the cross-border war against the Islamic State (Novaya Gazeta, September 18). Putin's words about the end of the civil war in Syria were not merely an exercise in wishful thinking; they betray the urge to find closure for the Russian intervention launched exactly two years ago (Nezavisimoe Voennoe Obozrenie, September 29). The continuing missile strikes are no longer applauded by Russian public opinion, and the death of Lieutenant General Valery Asapov inside Syria has spoiled the victorious reporting in official propaganda (Novaya Gazeta, September 26). The attempts to pin the blame for this setback on US collusion with the Islamic State were grossly false even by Kremlin standards, but Russian mistakes in planning the assault across the Euphrates River cannot be admitted (RBC, September 25). Moscow had to propose some new de-conflicting mechanisms in order to reduce the risks of direct clashes with US forces, but the Russian government then discovered that Iran was not interested at all in such moderation (Kommersant, September 28). It also learned that punishing strikes against rebels that ambushed Russian forces in the province of Idlib were disagreeable for Turkey, which insists on targeting the YPG (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, September 26). Another party to the Syrian calamity with serious reservations about Russia's plan for winning the war is Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has tried to cultivate warm relations with Putin, though that has not prevented the Israeli leader from ordering strikers on Hezbollah and Syrian chemical weapons facilities. Nonetheless, he was clearly irked by a recent low-profile visit of a Hamas delegation to Moscow (Newsru.com, September 28). Israel and the US are on the same page regarding the unacceptability of Iran's influence and military presence in Syria. But Russia is fully aware that the survivability of President Bashar al-Assad's regime requires a sustained backing from Tehran and cannot be secured just by Russian airstrikes (Russiancouncil.ru, September 14). It is, indeed, one thing for Moscow to defend the implementation of the United Nationsapproved nuclear agreement with Iran (see EDM, September 25), and a wholly different issue to engage in "brotherhood in arms" with Hezbollah and other Iran-sponsored Shia militias. The former might earn Moscow some international credibility, but the latter brings new US sanctions specifically targeting individuals and institutions involved in transactions supporting the al-Assad regime (RBC, September 30). Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu is due to travel to Israel this month in order to smooth the disagreements, but his visit to Damascus in mid-September resulted in the risky operation with crossing the Euphrates near Deir al-Zour (RIA Novosti, September 24; RBC, September 12). Russia's top brass was given an impossible political order to "liberate" eastern Syria without engaging in a direct clash with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). They have not been granted sufficient resources and are probably unhappy that the death of General Asapov has received much less public attention than the series of domestic replacements of regional governors (Ezhednevny Zhurnal, September 27). Several accidents during the much-advertised Zapad 2017 military exercises, including the crash of a long-range Tu-22M3 bomber, suggest the Russia Air Force is struggling under the pressure of the protracted air campaign in Syria (Kommersant, September 20). Nevertheless, there are significant cuts for defense expenditures in the 20182020 state budget approved by the government, while allocations for internal security are being increased (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, September 19). The intervention in Syria was supposed to giveand indeed delivereda boost to Russia's influence in the Middle East. But at the start of its third year, this effect is now mostly exhausted. Disagreements are deepening in the newly-formed Moscow-Ankara-Tehran "triangle"; for that matter, Iran and Turkey are firmly on Qatar's side in the recent Gulf crisis, while Russian attempts at mediation have fallen flat. The only factor that plays into Moscow's hands is the confusion in Washington's policy, which leaves all players in the Middle Eastern game of inter-connected conflicts confounded and often inclined to experiment with military instruments of policy. Russia excels at such experimentation, but the Syria intervention has turned into a bridge too far. And stakeholders in this calamity are now looking for and finding, without too much difficulty, signs of Russian overstretch. Unlike the deadlocked problems of Crimea and Donbas, Syria is a disaster that Russia can walk away from, while Turkey, Iran, Israel and Kurdistan would have to deal with the consequences. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Kurdish Referendum: Implications for the Karabakh Conflict Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Rahim Rahimov Publication Date 2 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 121 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Kurdish Referendum: Implications for the Karabakh Conflict, 2 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 121, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d4254.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website The September 25 independence referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan highlighted two important implications for the Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. First, official reactions from Baku and Yerevan have been noticeably cautious. Second, recent debates in Armenia and Azerbaijan have focused on whether the notional independence of Kurdistan could represent a precedent for the Karabakh region. The unrecognized authorities of the so-called "Artsakh Republic" (formerly known as the "Nagorno-Karabakh Republic"-NKR) hailed the referendum (Nkr.am, Tert.am, September 27). But interestingly, Yerevan's reaction to the referendum sounded quite cautious. "Armenia expects the Iraqi authorities and regional authorities of Iraqi Kurdistan to avoid tension and find opportunities to resolve the existing issues," Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian told journalists (ARKA, Armradio.am, September 27). Baku's official reaction was also careful. "Azerbaijan supports the peaceful resolution of matters between the Central Government of Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government within the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Iraq through mutual understanding and dialogue," said Hikmet Hajiyev, the spokesperson for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry (Mfa.gov.az, September 27). Armenia and Azerbaijan have traditionally openly supported the principles of self-determination and territorial integrity, respectively, due to their divergent considerations regarding the Karabakh conflict. This has been similarly true for the cases of Crimea, Kosovo, Abkhazia and South Ossetia (Reuters, February 18, 2008; Asbarez.com, February 19, 2008; Azatutyun.am, Trend, August 25, 2008; APA, December 3, 2009; News.am, September 24, 2010; EurasiaNet, March 28, 2014; see EDM April 17, 2014). So, what are the factors that caused such cautious reactions from Armenia and Azerbaijan this time around, regarding the Iraqi Kurdistan issue? First, the Iranian factor has to be taken into account. Iran has a multi-million-strong Kurdish populations bordering Iraqi Kurdistan, and members of this minority took to the streets to celebrate the referendum in solidarity with Iraqi Kurds (Rudaw.net, September 29). The independence of Iraqi Kurdistan could fuel the Iranian Kurds' aspirations for independence. For that and other reasons, Tehran resolutely stands against any Kurdish independence. The Iranian parliament condemned the referendum in harsh terms and called it "Zionist adventurism" in Iraq (TASNIM, September 27). Iran is also a vital partner that provides a life line for landlocked Armenia, whose borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan remain shut due to the Karabakh conflict. Yerevan's official and clear support for the Kurdistani referendum could have irritated Tehran, which helps explain why Armenia's government refrained from doing so. As for Baku, it kept its negative view of the referendum relatively muted, knowing that the lack of a clear condemnation would discomfort Tehran. Iran is closely cooperating with Armenia despite the latter's role in Karabakh conflict. Thus, in not speaking out loudly against the September 25 vote, Azerbaijan's government appears to have calculated that the Kurdish referendum would serve as a good reminder to Iran-where ethnic Azerbaijanis and Kurds are the largest ethnicities after Persians-of the Islamic Republic's own vulnerability to separatism. Second, there is the Israeli factor. Israel supported the Kurdish referendum. And Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is the sole leader in the world to endorse an independent Kurdistan (Haaretz, September 17). The chief of staff of Iran's Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, also pointed to Israel by calling the Kurdish referendum "a plot by the Zionist regime" (FARS, September 26). Azerbaijan is absolutely keen to cultivate its existing partnership with Israel. And Armenia remains quite disturbed by that bilateral security relationship (see EDM, January 30, September 25). Third, the Russian factor must also be considered. Moscow has neither condemned nor supported the referendum. Although Russia called on both the Iraqi federal government and the Kurdish autonomy to engage in "constructive and respectful dialogue with a view to devising a mutually acceptable formula of coexistence within a single Iraqi state," it simultaneously expressed "respect for the national aspirations of the Kurds" (Mid.ru, September 27). Usually, Baku and Yerevan try not to contradict Moscow in order to avoid any possible fallout from Moscow-particularly, considering Russia's crucial role in the Karabakh conflict (see EDM March 24, May 22). Moreover, Azerbaijan seeks to avoid becoming embroiled in any of the various conflicts encompassing the Middle East. Finally, Yerevan's and Baku's reactions may have been colored by their own perceptions of whether the independence of Iraqi Kurdistan could represent a precedent for Karabakh. It must be pointed out, however, that Kurdistan and Karabakh are categorically different cases for several reasons. Around 25-30 million Kurds, including over 8 million living in Iraqi Kurdistan, are known as the largest stateless people of the world. But to date, Iraqi Kurdistan had not actively pursued self-determination in the form of independence. Whereas Armenians have long exercised their right to self-determination with their own state-the Republic of Armenia-which has a population of around three million. Yet, the Armenian minority of 150,000 people in Karabakh seeks secession from the ten-million-strong Azerbaijan. President Ilham Aliyev has publicly stated that his country will not allow for the creation of a second Armenian state on Azerbaijani land (Azvision.az, May 28, 2016; President.az, March 31, 2017). From the Azerbaijani perspective, and indeed from the point of view of international law, the de-facto Armenian control of the disputed Karabakh region and the surrounding undisputed seven Azerbaijani provinces is an attempted annexation-not the exercise of the right to self-determination. Therefore, four United Nations Security Council resolutions demand that Armenia relinquish the occupied territories of Azerbaijan (Un.org, March 14, 2008). The resolutions remain unfulfilled. Moreover, self-determination does not necessarily always mean independence. Various levels of autonomy could also be applied. Incidentally, former Azerbaijani president Heydar Aliyev had long ago offered Armenians of Karabakh the highest level of autonomy available in international practice, which was rejected by Yerevan. This offer was never officially revoked (Aliyev-heritage.com, April 22, 1999, Azertag, April 24, 2009; President.az, June 22, 1905.az, November 24, 2011). To sum up all these arguments, Yerevan's and Baku's reactions to the Kurdish referendum have shown that Armenia is struggling to cope with the foreign policy ramifications of its stance on the Karabakh conflict, while Azerbaijan seems to have learned how to use neutral diplomatic language-rather than passionate, indiscriminate and fierce statements-in order to defend the concept of territorial integrity over self-determination. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Russia and Uzbekistan Hold First Joint Military Exercise in 12 Years, Plan Further Cooperation Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author John C. K. Daly Publication Date 3 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 122 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Russia and Uzbekistan Hold First Joint Military Exercise in 12 Years, Plan Further Cooperation, 3 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 122, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d77e4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Following the death of Uzbekistan's President Islam Karimov, in September 2016, his successor, Shavkat Mirziyaev, has begun cautiously reversing many of his predecessor's nationalist policies. Among the most striking turnarounds to date is the joint five-day Russian-Uzbekistani military exercise, which began on October 3, at the Forish mountain training range, in Uzbekistan's Dzhizak region (TASS, October 3). It is the first joint military exercise between the two countries in 12 years and marks a significant policy change from those of Karimov, who in the interests of nationalism deliberately kept relations with Moscow at a low level. After the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, its successor states embraced a variety of military options: from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to Turkmenistan's internationally recognized neutrality. Uzbekistan's isolationist nationalism, meanwhile, fell somewhere in between these two extremes. The agreement to conduct the above-mentioned joint exercise was concluded in July, during a working meeting in Tashkent between the commander of the troops of Russia's Central Military District in Tuva, Colonel General Vladimir Zarudnitsky, and Uzbekistan's minister of defense, Colonel General Kobul Berdiev (TV Zvezda, September 15). Central Military District spokesperson Colonel Yaroslav Roshupkin noted that during their talks, Zarudnitsky and Berdiev, beyond agreeing to the joint anti-terrorist exercise, discussed security issues in Central Asia and confirmed their interest in developing cooperation. They further decided that their respective military organization headquarters would hold talks on regional security issues, joint tactical exercises and other events by the end of the year (RIA Novosti, July 3). The choice of the Forish mountain training range is significant. In 2005, it was the site of the sole previous Russian-Uzbekistani joint anti-terrorist exercise. The Forish range was built in 2000, on the northern slope of Mount Khaiatbashi (7,116 feet above sea level), the highest peak of the Nuratau mountain range and located 155 miles west of Tashkent (Sputnik News, September 15). According to the exercise scenario, Uzbekistani and Russian soldiers will collaborate in dismantling armed militias operating in mountainous terrain (Sputnik News, September 15). The first post-Soviet joint Russian-Uzbekistani military exercises were held soon after the tragic events in Andijan, where, on May 13, 2005, Uzbekistan's security forces opened fire on militants gathered in the town's central square, killing several hundred people and provoking harsh international criticism of the Karimov government. Unlike Western governments, which demanded explanations from Karimov, Moscow immediately supported the actions of Uzbekistan's authorities to resolve the problem by force. And after the West imposed sanctions on Uzbekistan, Tashkent sought to counter its growing international isolation by intensifying its participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as well as by setting up the joint military exercise with Russia, its former colonial overlord. At the end of the 2005 exercise, then-Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov said that "the first Russian-Uzbek exercises should not be the last. Such joint activities should be carried out regularly, making them an integral part of our military-technical cooperation" (Fergananews.com, July 3, 2017). But despite Ivanov's optimism, the next decade would not see any further bilateral exercises, with the two countries' troops collaborating only in the SCO "Peace Mission 2007" multinational exercise, held in August 2007, at the Chebarkul military training ground, in Russia's Chelyabinsk region. The maneuvers involved roughly 6,000 troops from SCO member states Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, China and Uzbekistan (RIA Novosti, August 16, 2007). While "Peace Mission" maneuvers are regularly held to strengthen coordination among the SCO countries in countering the "three forces of evil"-terrorism, extremism and separatism-the 2007 exercise was the first and only instance in which all SCO members participated; Uzbekistan did not send troops to any subsequent exercises. Reverting again to its isolationism, in 2012 Uzbekistan withdrew from membership in the Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) (Cabar.asia, September 29, 2016). Since then, however, the intensifying turmoil in Afghanistan, combined with the uncertainty in Washington and NATO on how best to quell the ongoing insurgency, has undoubtedly played a significant role in Mirziyaev's recent conciliatory outreach to Moscow. Of particular concern to Uzbekistan is that Afghanistan is home to a significant contingent of Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) jihadists militants. Further heightening Tashkent's anxiety was the Taliban's September 2015 capture of Kunduz (northern Afghanistan), one of its greatest field victories since 2001. The Taliban held the provincial capital for nearly two weeks before being dislodged (see Terrorism Monitor, January 7, 2016). Immediately after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States, Karimov offered the US assistance in its Afghanistan campaign, including access to the Karshi-Khanabad airbase, 90 miles from the Afghan border. The US retained use of this facility until after the 2005 Andijan events, when US criticism pushed Karimov, who had led the country since the 1991 breakup of the Soviet Union, to cancel the lease agreement. Another US military option involving Uzbekistan was the Northern Distribution Network (NDN) of railway lines, which began operations in 2009. The NDN's closure in 2015 further downgraded the US military's interest in Uzbekistan, even as violence in Afghanistan was rising. The overriding security concern for post-Soviet Central Asia remains Afghanistan, which in the past two years has seen the rise of Islamic State militants there as a further destabilizing factor (see Terrorism Monitor, March 20, 2015; December 15, 2016). While the new US administration along with NATO remain uncertain about how to cope with the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, the country's neighbors have been forced to reassess their security concerns. For Uzbekistan, which previously shared a close relationship with the US military, the option of training troops in anti-terrorism operations with the Russian military seems a prudent measure given the rising chaos in its southern neighbor and Washington's ongoing disinterest in restoring bilateral military ties. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation What Are the Limits to Belarus's Sovereignty? Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Grigory Ioffe Publication Date 4 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 123 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, What Are the Limits to Belarus's Sovereignty?, 4 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 123, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d8984.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website The joint Russian-Belarusian Zapad 2017 war games, which ran during September 14-20, inspired a wide-ranging debate about the nature and geopolitical realities of Belarusian statehood and independence. Thus, according to the Belarusian military analyst Alexander Alesin, the Kremlin had evinced utmost irritation with Minsk because, even though Moscow had long insisted on the offensive character of the exercises, Belarus had nevertheless invited several international observers, especially those from Ukraine, without coordination with Russia. Consequently, both President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu did not visit Belarus during the drill, and the Russian military commanders did not stay for a ceremonial meal right after the event (Naviny, September 26). Artyom Shraibman, a political commentator for Tut.by, opines, on the other hand, that during Zapad 2017, Belarus was twice shown the limits of its sovereignty. In the first instance, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) kidnapped a Ukrainian citizen who came to Gomel, Belarus (see EDM, September 12). And in the second instance, the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) announced shortly after the beginning of the Zapad drills-and contrary to a detailed plan-that it was about to transfer a tank army to Belarus. While the Belarusian MoD disavowed this announcement, it clearly did not anticipate or understand what its Russian ally had in mind in the first place. In both cases, Shraibman argues, Moscow evinced extreme carelessness regarding Belarus's image in the eyes of the West. This did not justify the Baltic States' loud apprehensions, he suggests, but it did compromise Minsk's guarantees that no attack on these countries would come from Belarusian soil (Tut.by, September 21). Yauheni Preiherman, the director of research at the Liberal Club, a unique Minsk-based institution with ties to both international donor agencies and the Belarusian government, objects to Shraibman's perspective on Belarus's sovereignty. He calls the Zapad 2017 war games an event that bored everyone to death and cheers the fact that it is over. To Preiherman, the FSB's capture of a Ukrainian citizen from Belarus need not be interpreted as any evidence of a limitation of Belarus's sovereignty since spy agencies routinely engage in such activities across the world. Rather, the occurrence testifies to a "cynical and cruel" fight between Russia and Ukraine. Did the bugging of Chancellor Angela Merkel's phone by the United States' National Security Agency (NSA) limit Germany's sovereignty, he asks (Tut.by, September 23). While some might give an affirmative answer to this seemingly rhetorical question by Preiherman, what is more important is that it actually lays bare the so-called notion of "attribute substitution," a phenomenon studied by social psychology. Specifically, displeasure over limitations to sovereignty may be a spontaneous self-deception since few countries in the world exercise unlimited freedom of action to begin with. The true, if latent, displeasure may, in fact, be about which outside power limits one's sovereignty rather than about the limitation of sovereignty itself. Preiherman's other main observation seemingly confirms the above reasoning. Specifically, with a good deal of satisfaction, he points to the fact that the Russian defense ministry's announcement regarding a tank army deployment never materialized. And he notes, "Suffice it to recall the [Russian] airbase deployment document that was reportedly agreed upon with Minsk and made public [by Moscow] on the eve of the 2015 presidential election. There is, however, no [Russian] airbase [in Belarus] to this day. What does this say about Belarus's sovereignty?" Again, Preiherman claims that countries resort to tricks like this all the time, especially large countries in regard to small ones, and "Moscow, Washington, and Brussels are all tainted with that sin." Thus, a classic realist argument pursued by Preiherman is that constraints to Belarus's sovereignty do not depend on what others do in Moscow, think in Kyiv or proclaim in Vilnius. These are beyond Minsk's control anyway, just as the widespread worries over Zapad 2017 had nothing to do with Belarus's behavior but everything to do with its external instigators who were pursuing their own business interests. Belarus's ability to pragmatically maneuver between the conflicting interests of its neighbors and efficiently defend those of its own-this is what Belarus's sovereignty depends upon, believes Preiherman (Tut.by, September 23). In other words, a country's sovereignty is limited by wisdom as much as mistakes, but there is hardly anything that one can do to control the geopolitical setting per se. Such an idealist-versus-realist debate about Belarus's foreign policy is illuminating, as it most probably reflects actual and perhaps more down-to-earth discussions in the corridors of power in Minsk. Surely, the idealist arguments are easier to prop up, as Russian media presents an unparalleled glut of pretexts. For instance, in late September, a closed-door court session in Vitebsk handed down a two-year prison sentence to a Belarusian for taking part in hostilities in Ukraine on the side of the Donetsk separatists (Svaboda.org, September 26). But a Russian media outlet replied that such a court verdict is itself a crime and an act of support for terrorism (Strategia, September 29). Moreover, the gist of the ideological battle within Belarus is framed as a fight between Russian-Belarusians and Litvins. The term "Litvin" is used to denote both ethnic Lithuanians and the population of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (from the mid-1200s to 1795), regardless of ethnicity. And the fact that Lukashenka recognizes Belarus's roots in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania is considered by Russian "patriotic" voices a sellout to the West (EaDaily, September 28). At the same time, realists have causes for celebration, too. From September 28 to October 1, the presidents of the [Catholic] Bishops' Conferences of Europe took part in the annual Plenary Assembly, together with representatives from the Holy See's delegations to the European Institutions. The whole assembly gathered in Minsk (Belta, September 28), although Catholics account for merely 15 percent of Belarus's population. Also, the Minsk city administration has just registered the office of the Albaruthenia University, the nucleus of the first-ever Belarusian-language university in the Republic of Belarus (Svaboda.org, September 27). Both events were officially authorized by Minsk, thus seemingly extending the limits of Belarus's sovereignty. As such, the debate on the existential issues of Belarusian statehood will continue. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Despite Cut in Draft Numbers, Russia Unlikely to Have Fully Professional Army Soon Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Paul Goble Publication Date 5 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 124 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Despite Cut in Draft Numbers, Russia Unlikely to Have Fully Professional Army Soon, 5 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 124, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d9324.html [accessed 15 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. Russian officials are insisting, and many commentators are accepting without question, that the reduction in the fall draft quota this year shows Moscow is on course to meet President Vladimir Putin's promise in 2012 to end the military draft entirely by 2020 and to have a fully professional military by that time. The fall 2017 draft quota was set at 134,000 conscripts, compared to 147,000 last spring and 152,000 last fall (Ansar.ru, September 29). In today's budgetary and demographic situation, it is highly unlikely that this declining trend in draft quotas can continue. Moreover, a decreasing reliance on draftees faces stiff opposition from commanders who still make plans for mass armies. But even if ever-lower quotas could be maintained at the current rate, Russia would still be drafting young men into the military until at least the mid-2020s. Indeed, although it has not attracted much attention in the West, the Russian defense ministry published a draft of an order, in mid-September, outlining how Russia will conduct a conscript call-up during times of war or military emergency (Regulation.gov.ru, accessed October 5). This document is hardly an indication that Russian commanders are really thinking about ending conscription anytime soon. Furthermore, it seems to dispute the conclusions of a recent United States Department of Defense study that Russian draftees are poorly motivated and would not fight well (Znak, September 24). Some Russian commentators, like Sergey Krivenko, who heads the soldiers' rights commission in the Presidential Human Rights Council, do admit that "this transition is taking place not as quickly as one would have liked" Still, as evidenced by the reduction in the number of draftees now, "it is taking place" (Krymr.com, October 2). However, with the next presidential election approaching, Krivenko's words appear to have more to do with suggesting that Putin is keeping his promises from five years ago than with reality. Moreover, as Valentina Melnikova, a leader of the Union of Committees of Soldiers' Mothers, points out, the portion of the Russian defense ministry responsible for conducting the draft has remained unreformed, despite changes in all other subdivisions of the ministry. In fact, she asserts, the defense ministry has been conducting recent drafts in exactly the same way the Soviets did: ignoring health and other problems of potential soldiers in order to fill draft quotas. And in predominantly Slavic regions of the country, such an undiscerning approach is becoming increasingly difficult because of low birthrates at the end of the 1990s (Krymr.com, October 2). The army could easily meet its overall quotas if Moscow were willing to draft at the same rate in majority-ethnic-Russian as well as non-Russian areas. But it does not want to do that because were the military to equalize the conscription rates across the country, the ethnic composition of the Russian Armed Forces would quickly shift toward Muslim nationalities. This fall, only 200 young men will reportedly be conscripted in Ingushetia, despite there being 12,000 in the draft pool there (Regnum, October 2). And only 500 are slated to be called to service in Chechnya, out of an existing draft pool in that North Caucasus republic of 80,000 (Kavkazsky Uzel, October 2). By contrast, 6,000 Muscovites are going to be called up this fall (TASS, October 5). Given apparent increasing hostility between Slavs and Muslims in Russia as well as recent incidents of violence by the latter against the former, it is perhaps no surprise that commanders and their political bosses are limiting the intake of traditionally Muslim nationalities into the military (Windowoneurasia2.blogspot.com, October 1). Unlike most countries, Russia drafts twice a year, three months in the spring and three in the fall. Thus, this fall's draft, and official statements about the future, will not end the ongoing debate about whether Russia needs a draft or not. That debate, recent articles in the Russian media suggest, will revolve around the three reasons why some, in both the military and especially the political establishment, favor doing away with conscription, and why others, including many uniformed officers and, perhaps counter-intuitively, some non-Russians do not. Supporters of a professional army routinely give three basic reasons for their position: First, a professional army is less dependent on the country's demographic situation (Kommersant, April 1). Second, professional soldiers are better motivated, serve longer and, thus, can be better trained. And third, professional soldiers are much less likely to be affected by popular attitudes against a particular conflict; hence, the Kremlin can use them as it wants, with little fear that they will oppose being sent to fight (Sovsekretno.ru, October 14, 2014). Meanwhile, opponents of doing away with the draft offer the following three justifications: First of all, they say a professional force and the benefits Moscow will have to provide its members will cost vastly more, possibly far more than the country can afford (Kommersant, April 1). Second, Russian military doctrine, like its Soviet and tsarist predecessors, is based on mass armies rather than smaller professional ones. Senior commanders thus think about commanding large formations composed of predominantly drafted soldiers, rather than smaller professional units-and in many cases, they do not want to change. And third, because of a quirk in Russian law, many non-Russians, especially in the North Caucasus, need a draft for other reasons (Kavkazsky Uzel, Sobkorr.ru, November 26, 2013). Anyone who wants to become a police officer, for example, must have a military "ticket," that is, must have served in the military. That is easier to do if there is a draft because conscripts serve shorter periods of time than contract soldiers (kontraktniki). Consequently, some North Caucasians are now bribing draft boards (the military commissariats) to draft them-not because they want to serve in the military, but because they need the military "ticket" for their careers (Regnum, October 2). Such cultural and institutionalized obstacles are likely to forestall any conclusive shift to an all-volunteer Russian army for a long time to come. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Tuo Zhen, spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, holds a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Oct 17, 2017. [Photo by Deng Yongan/chinadaily.com.cn] BEIJING - Tuo Zhen, spokesman for the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, held a press conference on Tuesday afternoon at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, briefing the media on the upcoming congress. Here are highlights of Tuo's remarks at the press conference. 2,280 delegates will attend Congress A total of 2,280 delegates from all walks of life will attend the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, which starts on Wednesday. The Party elected 2,287 delegates before the Congress, but seven of them did not pass the final review by the delegate credential committee. "The qualification of the 2,280 delegates is effective," Tuo said. The qualified delegates are from various sectors, including the economy, education, health and justice, and are from all levels of society. For example, 33.8 percent of the delegates come from grassroots departments, 3.3-percentage points higher than the figure of the last Congress, according to Tuo. (Read more) China will stick to opening up China will stick to the opening-up policy and further expand market access to foreign investors, Tuo said. Tuo said opening up is a basic State policy. He cited President Xi Jinping, saying that China will not make changes to the basic policy, and will not make changes to the commitments to provide better services to foreign investors. The State Council, the cabinet, released documents in January and August, and local governments have introduced measures to attract more foreign capital, according to Tuo. He said there will be renewed efforts to attract foreign investors in the future as the opening up and reform continues. "The goal is to see a win-win result and common development," he said. (Read more) China will never deviate from the course of reform China has set a clear direction for advancing reform and "will never deviate from this course", Tuo said. "Reform is an ongoing process, and there is never an end (in the pursuit of the reform)," Tuo said. China is firm in taking reform forward and will not slow its pace, he added. Tuo said it will facilitate strategic deployment for reform and development during the coming five years, and beyond, allow for the planning and advancement of reform at a higher starting point and will unswervingly carry reform forward to the end. Tuo noted that the Central Leading Group for Deepening Overall Reform was established and headed by Xi Jinping, general secretary of CPC Central Committee. Xi has made plans for and guided the reform, and has chaired 38 meetings of the Leading Group, Tuo said. A range of symbolic, guiding key measures for reform was introduced and enacted, and the overall framework for reform has been basically established, Tuo added. (Read more) CPC pledges to keep fighting corruption The Communist Party of China will fight against corruption with greater determination, courage and endeavor, as comprehensively and strictly governing the Party is never the end of a journey, Tuo said. The country has witnessed several serious and significant corruption cases in recent years, including Zhou Yongkang, Bo Xilai, Guo Boxiong, Xu Caihou, Sun Zhengcai and Ling Jihua, and they have been punished in accordance with the national laws and the Party's disciplines, according to Tuo. All the officials mentioned above were former members of the CPC Central Committee. "This means any Party member who violates the disciplines and laws will be punished, no matter how high his or her position is," Tuo said. To fight corruption, the Party has strengthened its internal construction at the same time, he said, adding the Party formulated and revised 90 internal regulations over the past few years. (Read more) Navalny Organizes Another Round of Protests Against Putin Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Richard Arnold Publication Date 11 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 127 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Navalny Organizes Another Round of Protests Against Putin, 11 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 127, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5d97e4.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Ostensibly to celebrate Vladimir Putin's birthday on Saturday, October 7, supporters of the detained opposition politician and anti-corruption blogger Alexei Navalny and his staff organized protests across Russia, calling on the Russian president to leave office. Navalny himself has been under administrative arrest since September 29, and so was unable to attend the protests. These latest were the third sizeable protests this year under Navalny's opposition umbrella-the first being in March (see EDM, March 27) and the second occurring on June 12. As usual, the largest protests took place in Moscow and St. Petersburg. "[O]n behalf of the 163,171 campaigners and 623,621 petition signers for the nomination of Navalny," his staff called for "all those, who want a better future for our country, regardless of political views and agreement with Alexei Navalny's program, to act as a united front for political competition and the right of all citizens to support the campaign that they like" by coming out onto the street for the latest protests (Navalny.com, October 5). First among the protesters' formal concrete demands was a call to have Alexei Navalny's candidacy admitted to the March 2018 presidential election. Although numbers attending the demonstrations were significantly lower than previous rallies, they nevertheless achieved a truly country-wide presence. In Moscow, between 700 and 3,000 protestors gathered at an unsanctioned event on Pushkin Square, with banners reading "Happy Birthday Vova! [The diminutive form of Vladimir, a reference to Russia's President]," "Navalny is our President!" and "Russia without Putin!" The protesters then marched down to the Kremlin. In St. Petersburg, between 8,000 and 10,000 people gathered at the Field of Mars at 5:30 pm and marched to Revolution Square, where the meeting proceeded for another two hours (Novaya Gazeta, October 7). Although the crowds at each event were smaller than those seen in June and March, they were still sizeable and perhaps testimony to the popular desire among certain segments of society to see Russia free from Putin. Other protests proceeded in a reported 80 different cities around the country. An estimated crowd of up to 2,000 gathered in the city of Yekaterinburg, and dozens assembled for protests in Izhevsk, Rostov-on-Don, Krasnodar, Kaliningrad, Saransk, Samara, Tomsk, Pskov, Lipetsk, Tyumen, Tula, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk and many more (Newtimes.ru, October 7). Although the numbers of protesters may be small, when weighed against the difficulties of managing street demonstrations across the world's largest country, in the shadow of the authoritarian regime that has arisen in Russia, their sheer existence is itself impressive. Evidence also exists of the authorities taking preventative moves ahead of the protests, by detaining and creating trouble for members of Navalny's regional staff. For example, in Rostov, the chief of Navalny's regional operation, Anastasia Deineka, was arrested without official reason by the E-center for countering extremism in the region. Similarly, the chief of Navalny's headquarters in Smolensk was arrested and given an eight-day sentence prior to the October 7 protests (Newtimes.ru, October 7). Against this background, the authorities' relatively tolerant reaction to the actual protests makes sense. As of Sunday morning, some 271 people had reportedly been arrested in 26 cities across Russia (Ovdinfo.org, October 8). Sixty-two people arrested were in St. Petersburg, 57 in Yaroslavl, 21 in Krasnodar, and 20 in Lipetsk. Smaller numbers were also detained in Kaliningrad, Perm, Pskov, Saransk, Selyatin, Sochi, Stavropol, Tula, Tyumen and Yakutsk. The demonstration in the city of Moscow was striking: Novaya Gazeta christened the action the "first [protest] in Moscow without arrests" (Novaya Gazeta, October 7). Most of those arrested were ultimately released; but as of Sunday, October 8, there were still some small protests active in Moscow and St. Petersburg, calling for the release of those remaining in police custody. According to reports, the protesters in Moscow turned out with mattresses and food, looking determined to stay as long as needed on Manezh Square in order to force the authorities listen to them. The protests broke up after police arrested and then released 15 people with whom they had held a short preventative conversation (Newsland.com, October 8). The protests appear to have been equally pro-Navalny and anti-Putin. On the one hand, the almost certain announcement by Putin that he will be seeking a fourth term [second consecutive, following the rukirovka [castling] with Dmitry Medvedev in 2008) will come soon. Navalny has a clear incentive to keep the momentum of demonstrators at high levels ahead of this announcement, which presumably will be met by protests just as Putin's 2011 announcement of his intent to return to the presidency was. On the other, Navalny is still trying to get on the ballot for 2018, as is stated on his website. Still, while he has a certain popularity with some sections of Russian society (in particular, the young), it is difficult to see how he could defeat Putin at the ballot box, even in a fair electoral contest. Social scientists have provided evidence that Putin's popularity is genuine, after all (Timothy Frye, Scott Gehlbach, Kyle Marquardt, and John Ora Reuter, "Is Putin's Popularity Real? Post-Soviet Affairs, 2015). Given this, one might think it wise for the Kremlin to provide the semblance of competition and evidence of its democratic pretensions by letting Navalny run. But doing so now would risk the impression that the regime will make concessions to street mobilization. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Orthodox Fundamentalists Backed by Russian Siloviki, Scholar Says Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Paul Goble Publication Date 10 October 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 126 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Orthodox Fundamentalists Backed by Russian Siloviki, Scholar Says, 10 October 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 126, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5da034.html [accessed 15 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. Link to original story on Jamestown website Many have wondered why the Russian government has not come down harder on what some are calling "the Orthodox Jihad," radical groups within the Russian Orthodox Church that, despite opposition from the Moscow Patriarchate, have engaged in various illegal actions-including attacks on movie theaters that plan to show the controversial film Matilda. Some have suggested that the regime does not want to inflame the situation by creating martyrs. But the real reason, local political expert Yekaterina Schulmann says, is that the Orthodox radicals are allies of groups within the Russian force structures (siloviki). And because the behavior of these Orthodox radical groups actually supports the interests of their siloviki allies (notwithstanding the latter's public pronouncements to the contrary), the "Orthodox Jihad" enjoys a certain level of protection from actions by other officials (Dozhd, October 6). At the end of the Russian Imperial period, the tsarist secret police actively and notoriously backed the Black Hundreds and other radical Orthodox and nationalist groups in the hopes that such factions could defeat the enemies of the regime. Similarly, at the end of the Soviet period, the KGB created or sponsored various organizations, from the virulently nationalist Pamyat to the Liberal Democratic Party of Vladimir Zhirinovsky, in the expectation that such groups could help that regime survive. Now, Vladimir Putin's government appears to be pursuing the same tactics again, selecting from the various radical groups on offer, supporting some while suppressing others, and using the former in the expectation that, whatever officials say in public, these groups will help defend Putin's rule. It may well be, Schulmann suggests, that in contrast to the past, the authorities are choosing among groups that have arisen on their own rather than creating them out of whole cloth; but the consequences are similar in that they open the way for groups nominally independent of the state to act illegally against those the state opposes or fears. Moreover, the use of such groups is especially attractive to the authorities because they can always be disowned if domestic opposition to them grows too strong (Dozhd, October 6). As Schulmann points out, there are many Russian Orthodox parishioners, priests and even bishops who are "more radical" than Patriarch Kirill wants and who are fighting against him and his policies "by various means." The Moscow political scientist further argues that they are able to do so because they enjoy the protection of the Kremlin's force structures, including but not limited to the Federal Security Service (FSB). Many in the Orthodox Church hierarchy have long been connected with the security organs. These links are not only the result of the Soviet pattern of controlling the selection of all bishops and above; they are also due to existing Church institutions, such as the Synod's department for work with the siloviki and police, which in the last decade has itself generated many radical leaders such as Archpriest Smirnov (Dozhd, October 6; Windowoneurasia2.blogspot.com, March 16, 2013; September 29, 2017). All this, of course, is a flagrant violation of the provisions of the Russian Constitution, but it is also an indication of something even worse, according to Schulmann. She argues that "the level of indoctrination among elites of this same Orthodox fundamentalism is much higher than it is in society." A "radical" difference in the religiosity between Russian elites and the Russian people has always existed-at least as public performance. But today, it has become an abyss, as highlighted by popular opposition to the government's attempts to return to the Russian Orthodox Church properties seized by the Soviets-including most prominently St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg. The upper elite of the government bureaucracy "thinks that all the public is just like it is" and will welcome what it proposes on such things. And thus, the Russian elite is delighted when people from within the Orthodox Church are prepared to confirm its prejudices, even when this turns out to be incorrect. In St. Petersburg, for example, the authorities have backed down somewhat precisely because they tried to take these steps openly in the expectation that they would receive public support (Dozhd, October 6). Now, however, Schulmann's analysis suggests, at least some among Putin's siloviki are prepared to use the "Orthodox Jihad" to achieve what has turned out to be more difficult to do above board. That opens the way not only for more outrageously hyperbolic moves, such as the proposals to canonize Duma deputy Natalya Poklonskaya, who leads the anti-Matilda forces (Newizv.ru, October 8), but also for more violence against those who oppose the common program of the "Orthodox Jihad" and the siloviki. One hopeful sign is visible in all this. Schulmann is a leading expert at the Presidential Russian Academy of Economics and State Service, an institution that often provides early warning indicators about coming changes in Kremlin policy. It thus may be the case that her comments, so disturbing on their face, reflect the fears of others in the presidential administration that the "Orthodox Jihad"-siloviki alliance risks spinning out of control, and they are now prepared to take action to dissolve it. Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Secretary-General welcomes launch of new UN mission in Haiti Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 October 2017 Related Document(s) Security Council resolution 2350 (2017) [on final extension of the mandate of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) until 15 Oct. 2017 and establishment of the UN Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (MINUJUSTH)] Cite as UN News Service, Secretary-General welcomes launch of new UN mission in Haiti, 16 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5e0d64.html [accessed 15 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. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterrs welcomed the establishment Monday of the UN Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (MINUJUSTH), following the closure of its predecessor peacekeeping mission. "MINUJUSTH reflects the commitment of the United Nations to continue supporting the consolidation of peace and promotion of stability in Haiti," said a statement issued by Mr. Guterres' Spokesman, Stephane Dujarric. The closure of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) is "a testament to Haiti's progress over the past 13 years," the statement said. In the statement, the Secretary-General extended his gratitude to all civilian and uniformed personnel who served with MINUSTAH, as well as to troop and police contributing countries. MINUJUSTH will assist the Haitian Government to strengthen rule of law institutions, further develop the capacities of the national police and advance human rights. "The Secretary-General is confident that the Haitian people and Government will work in close partnership with MINUJUSTH and the United Nations country team, to implement together joint priorities based on [UN Security Council] resolution 2350 (2017) and reflected in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," the statement said. UN envoy discusses implementation of intra-Palestinian agreement with Prime Minister Hamdallah Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 October 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UN envoy discusses implementation of intra-Palestinian agreement with Prime Minister Hamdallah, 16 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5f3eb4.html [accessed 15 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. Meeting the Palestinian Prime Minister today, the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Nickolay Mladenov, and discussed the implementation of the intra-Palestinian agreement signed in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, on 12 October. In particular, the agreement provides for the return of the crossings of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority by 1 November. "The timely and effective implementation of this provision and concrete steps to alleviate the humanitarian crisis will be critical for effectively empowering the Palestinian Government in Gaza," said Mr. Mladenov after his meeting with Prime Minister Hamdallah in Ramallah this afternoon, local time. "The agreement is also an important step towards achieving the goal of Palestinian unity under a single, democratic and legitimate Palestinian national authority," added Mr. Mladenov. The senior UN official also noted that the Organization will continue to work with the Palestinian leadership, Egypt and the region in support of the process, highlighting its importance for reaching a negotiated two-state solution and sustainable peace. Following the agreement last week, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres congratulated by phone, Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the State of Palestine, on the agreement and emphasized the need to urgently address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, particularly with regard to the electricity crisis, and improved access to and from the territory. Lift protest ban, protect judiciary and preserve civil society role, UN rights experts urge Kenya Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 October 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Lift protest ban, protect judiciary and preserve civil society role, UN rights experts urge Kenya, 16 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5f4494.html [accessed 15 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. Voicing concern over restrictions on protests as well as attacks on judiciary and civil society in the run-up to presidential elections in Kenya, a group of United Nations independent human rights experts called on the Government to honour its obligations and protect the rights of Kenyans. It is precisely when political tensions are high that governments should do their utmost to let people express their grievances and to protect their rights, said the experts in a news release issued by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Kenya is facing a choice. We urge it to choose to uphold its constitution and pursue strengthening of its democracy, to avoid deepening political divisions and exacerbating tensions. According to the human rights experts, a pattern of police brutality, excessive use of force, consistent harassment of judges and threats to civil society has been witnessed even before the ban was imposed. Under the restrictions, protests are forbidden in parts of the nation's three largest cities Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu until further notice, protests in other parts of the country require prior police permission and organizers can be held criminally liable for any offence by any participant. In the news release, experts noted that while some previous protests had been marred by violent incidents, they stressed that response to any violence must be proportional to the level of threat and that security forces must prioritize dialogue and non-violent means. The presidential elections are to be held on 26 October. An 'alleged climate of impunity' The rights experts also said that there was currently an alleged climate of impunity for law enforcement officers despite the launching of several investigations, including one into the violence that followed the 8 August general election, when dozens of people were killed and many injured as a result of police action. In particular, they highlighted an incident on 28 September, when 27 students and staff at the University of Nairobi were reportedly injured when police used tear gas, beat them with wooden clubs, robbed them and threatened them with sexual violence. A few days later, on 2 October, police reportedly used tear gas in a nursery in Nyalenda (a suburb of Kisumu) injuring at least three children. We call for a prompt, independent and thorough investigation into all allegations of police brutality, the experts said, adding: impunity fosters a culture of violence and mistrust, the opposite of what Kenya needs as it prepares for a repeat of the presidential elections. 'Robust checks and balances are the prerogative of every democracy' Further in the release, the experts expressed serious concern over reports of repeated attacks against individual judges and the judiciary in general and attempts to limit the courts' role in hearing election-related petitions. Robust checks and balances are the prerogative of every democracy, they said, stressing that the independence of the judiciary must be protected. They also underscored that the role of the civil society must also be preserved and denounced fake information being circulated online on social media, seeking to denigrate human rights organizations, including members of the Kura Yangu Sauti Yangu initiative which works for free and fair elections. This is unacceptable and must immediately stop, the experts said. Over the years, we have repeatedly raised concerns with the Government of Kenya about shrinking civil society space and attacks on individual human rights defenders. The UN human rights experts noted above include Michel Forst, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders; Agnes Callamard, the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions; Diego Garcia-Sayan, the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers; Nils Melzer, the Special Rapporteur on torture; and David Kaye, the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression. Special Rapporteurs and independent experts are appointed by the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council the highest intergovernmental forum in the UN system on rights issues to examine and report back on a specific human rights theme or a country situation. The positions are honorary and the experts are not UN staff, nor are they paid for their work. Mexico: Mental Health Bill Undermines Disability Rights Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 17 October 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Mexico: Mental Health Bill Undermines Disability Rights, 17 October 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59e5f7d84.html [accessed 15 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. Mexico's Congressional Mental Health and Drug Commission is considering a national mental health bill that would seriously jeopardize the rights of people with disabilities, Human Rights Watch said today. In a letter sent on October 16, 2017, to the Commission on Health and Drugs in the Chamber of Deputies, Human Rights Watch urged the commission to reject the bill in its current form. The commission should revise the bill to reflect a human rights-oriented framework, based on consultations with organizations representing people with disabilities and disability rights experts. The final bill should ensure the right to mental health for all in Mexico on an equal basis, and without resort to forced treatment. "The bill before the commission unfortunately reflects a discredited approach to mental health, focusing on forced medical treatment instead of on the consent, autonomy and rights of those in need of mental health services," said Carlos Rios Espinosa, senior researcher and advocate for disability rights at Human Rights Watch. "The bill is inconsistent with Mexico's human rights obligations, in particular the right to consent to or refuse treatment, which is an integral aspect of the right to health." Mexico's government should follow the example of other countries and international organizations, such as the World Health Organization, that are developing new mental health policies that respect the rights of people with disabilities and emphasize people's right to choose and to govern their own lives. The current bill would lead to people being locked up against their will for no legitimate reason, Human Rights Watch said. But UN experts on health and torture and the UN expert body on disability rights have emphasized that forced treatment and other nonconsensual invasive measures, including involuntary admission to psychiatric hospitals for medical treatment, should be ended. The bill would provide broad authority for medical and judicial authorities to find that people labeled as having "mental disorders" do not have the capacity to make decisions for themselves. In such circumstances, the bill authorizes involuntary hospitalization and treatment without the person's consent. Under human rights norms, people with disabilities may not be detained on the basis of their disability, and may only be detained, on an equal basis with others, if they engage in behavior that constitutes grounds for detention for everyone under the law. Among other worrisome elements, the bill allows the solitary confinement of and use of physical restraints on people with "mental disorders," which experts agree can constitute torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. "It is commendable that the commission is devoting time and effort to enhance the right to health for all Mexicans, but it's all the more important for them to get it right," Rios Espinosa said. "The commission should create a framework for health services that respects the right to informed consent, whether you have a disability or not." Copyright notice: Copyright, Human Rights Watch An installation work by a Yinchuan resident, A Box from 1984: Eggs. [Photo provided to China Daily] From programs inviting members of the public to re-create their memories to holding workshops, repositories of the country's heritage are finding new ways to boost visitor numbers. Lin Qi reports. One memorable and pleasant childhood activity for Li Yiman, a cafe shop owner in her 30s, was helping her grandfather hatch eggs in a wooden incubator. "But it was not until I grew older that I found the process magical, although it looked quite simple," says Li, a resident of Yinchuan, Northwest China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region. "How to select the eggs, how many to place in a box, how many electric bulbs to use, and how to control the temperature and humidity ... Every step, every option, was about the creation of a life." Three months ago, Li heard that MOCA Yinchuan, the city's major modern art museum, had invited people to submit personal stories that reflect the city's history. So she mailed her story of the egg incubator. The museum staff were impressed and sent her a wooden box to re-create her memories. She installed four bulbs in the box and under them placed a dozen dolls of yellow, hairy chicks and egg shells. She then pasted four handwritten pages of her story on one side of the interior of the box. "Seeing chickens breaking through their shells was amazing for me when I was a child," she says. "Now, the scene arouses a lot of thoughts in me that life is like an egg, and that one needs to throw off the restrictions on it, like the shells. "Breakthroughs enable one to improve and see a broader world." Li says her work, A Box from 1984: Eggs, is a part of an ongoing public program offered by MOCA Yinchuan. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Michella Flores must think trouble and tragedy are going out of their way to follow her. The 51-year-old Santa Rosa flight attendant was in Las Vegas on Oct. 1 watching country star Jason Aldean when a sniper's bullets showered down at the Route 91 Harvest Festival. She wasn't hit, but the massacre left her shaking. She could not sleep for days. She hid in a nearby casino's conference room with other concertgoers after fleeing down Las Vegas Boulevard. A little over a week later, on the night of Oct. 8, she was on her way to her parent's rented home in Santa Rosa where she was staying until she could move into another house when saw an orange glow on a hill. Flores, a former paramedic and firefighter, knew that from the wind direction, the wildfire was headed directly at the house. "Last Sunday, I was running from bullets," Flores told KTVU. "This Sunday, I was running from fire." After warning her parents to start packing, she left to walk her dog, Baylee, but heard on an emergency dispatch service crews mentioning a road near their house. "I called my mom," Flores told CNN, "and my mom screamed in the phone and said, 'It's at the bottom of our driveway!'" When she returned, a fire engine was already there. Her parents left to stay at a community center, but Flores stayed, and for hours helped firefighters protect the family's home as flames licked at the walls. A neighbors' house burned down. Now Playing: Wine Country Fires Video: San Francisco Chronicle In the morning, with their house still intact, she left for a work-related training class in Oakland. When she returned, she got the bad news: While she was gone, the fire jumped from nearby trees to the house. It was a total loss. "Almost everything I own is gone," she said. "My bed, my bike, my clothes, my flight attendant uniforms." Her parents don't have their own place to stay, but they were able to move into the rental that Flores was getting ready. The family didn't have renter's insurance. Despite the loss, Flores hasn't missed a day of work. She says others have it worse than she and her family. "Puerto Rico," she told CNN. "Well, gosh, they're worse off than we are." George Frey / Getty Images ATF veterans are pushing back against suggestions by Republicans that the embattled firearms regulator is to blame for approving the bump-stock device that Las Vegas shooter Stephen Paddock used to such devastating effect. Michael Bouchard, a former official with The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, called on members of Congress, including Connecticut Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, to not allow the honorable employees of ATF, who followed existing law in their bump-stock ruling, to be falsely accused of not doing their job by those who seek to exploit the situation for political gain. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate HARTFORD The states 12 community colleges would become one accredited institution under a plan that will be reviewed Thursday by the Board of Regents for Higher Education. The Community College of Connecticut, with more than 52,000 students, would become the fifth-largest community college in the nation, promising to make it easier for students to navigate and less costly to operate, officials said. System President Mark Ojakian pledged Tuesday that a projected $28 million saved in overhead costs by the time the new system is in place in July 2019 would be fed back into students services such as advisers and career counselors. It will make us much more competitive, Ojakian said of a plan. In the spring of 2017, Ojakian announced intentions to merge the college administrations while keeping all campuses open and institutional identities intact. He said that made sense even without states financial challenges. This was all about making it easier for our students to stay in school, to complete their education and ultimately get a job, Ojakian said. Under the proposed system, students would only have to enroll once, fill out one financial aid form and take one placement tests. About 2 percent of students now attend more than one campus. More would likely do that under the new structure, said Michael Rooke, president of Northwestern Connecticut Community College, who led the planning process. It is somewhat unprecedented, Rooke said. The Student First project involved more than 100 people and six planning committees. Under the plan, the system would go from 12 presidents to one vice chancellor, and would shrink 36 college administrative positions into 16, with the elimination of campus financial and academic officers. Each existing community college would be governed by a vice president and would be clustered into three regions headed by a regional president. Housatonic, Gateway, Norwalk and Middlesex, for instance, would be grouped into the same cluster overseen by a regional president. Already, Ojakian has taken advantage of some presidential departures to begin a process of sharing leadership between the institutions. Paul Broadie, president at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, has also been at the helm of Gateway Community College in New Haven since August. The two colleges also share other key administrators. The full consolidation process is still about two years away and would require additional work and approval from faculty, regents and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the regional accrediting agency who has been kept in the loop about the plan. After the plan goes to the Board of Regents on Thursday, Ojakian plans three town hall meetings, one in each of the proposed college cluster areas, before returning to the regents in December for approval. This is not going to happen overnight, Ojakian said. But it should result in a much more sustainable and resilient system that will benefit students and withstand fiscal challenges. lclambeck@ctpost.com; twitter/lclambeck This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Las Vegas residents are still mourning the 58 people killed in the Oct. 1 mass shooting. In the wake of the tragedy, some residents have chosen to immortalize the day in the form of a tattoo. Many of the tattoos carry the words "Vegas Strong" in a show of solidarity and a sign of support for those hurt in the attack. INJURED VICTIM: Texas woman suing MGM resorts for Las Vegas mass shooting is being represented by Houston lawyers Some of the work comes from Vegas tattoo shops that offered to donate proceeds to support victims of the shooting. "It's always important to give back, no matter the circumstance," Sean Dowdell, a Las Vegas tattoo shop owner, told KTNV at the time. "The recent events hit us hard at home between our staff and clients, and we want to make sure that we recognize that these events affect everyone differently." See more "Vegas Strong" tattoos above. Wire eyeglasses are displayed at the show Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design at Atlanta's High Museum of Art. [Photo provided to China Daily] ATLANTAA new exhibition opening in Atlanta encourages visitors to abandon their preconceived notions about Africa and explore the creative efforts of people using design to bring about change on the vast continent. Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design opened on Saturday at Atlanta's High Museum of Art. It defines design broadly and delves into the continent's diversity and vibrancy through more than 200 works by more than 120 artists from 22 countries. Too often people associate Africa with problems like hunger or corruption, but the exhibition seeks to broaden the view by focusing on people who use design to provide solutions, High Museum curator of African art Carol Thompson says. "I want people to see Africa in a new way and appreciate the creativity of artists on the continent, past and present," she says, adding that "the exhibition doesn't deny that there are challenges on the continent but rather addresses those problems head on". Immediately upon entering is a display of Kenyan artist Cyrus Kabiru's C-Stunners, a collection of wearable eyeglass sculptures crafted from everyday objects such as wires, screws and shoe polish tins. The pieces are not corrective eyeglasses in the literal sense but are meant to help "correct" the perception of Africa, Thompson says. A collection of biting comic-style images mocks stereotypes and common perceptions. One by South African comic artist Anton Kannemeyer shows a white man in a Superman outfit, with SR emblazoned on his chest, handing a sack of money to a black African boy who's saying "Thanks, Super Rich Man!" One of the most captivating pieces in the exhibition is a collaborative project by South African artist Mikhael Subotzky and British artist Patrick Waterhouse. It captures Ponte City, a 54-story circular apartment building in Johannesburg, South Africa. A posh address when it was built in 1975, it has become rundown, though still inhabited, since the end of apartheid. The two artists photographed every television set, door and window view in the building between 2008 and 2010 and put the 600 photos together in three tall light-boxes in the same order as they were in the building. The result is a captivating glimpse into the tallest apartment building on the continent. A chair by Malian designer Cheick Diallo was made from metal wire used in the fishing industry with nylon thread wrapped around it. Colorful stools and tables were made mostly from recycled plastic by Bibi Seck, an artist who was born in Paris and grew up in Paris, London and Dakar, Senegal. A set of pocket handkerchiefs from fashion label Ikire Jones re-creates 18th-century textiles and tapestries but inserts African people into them. An embroidered silk cape, paired with a boldly patterned silk shirt and trousers from London-based Nigerian designer Duro Olowu combines prints and colors in a way that is very characteristic of African fashion, Thompson says. Technology also fits into the exhibition's interpretation of design. A brick-sized device, called BRCK, made by the Kenyan company Ushahidi, is a self-powered mobile Wi-Fi device that allows other devices to access the internet, which has been vital for change in Africa, allowing Africans to connect with each other and the rest of the world. There are also dozens of videos and digital displays, so many that they can't possibly all be viewed in a single visit. The exhibition, which was organized by Vitra Design Museum in Germany and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain, runs through Jan 7 at the High. It is also slated to be shown at the Albuquerque Museum in New Mexico, Feb 3 through May 6, and at the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin, Texas, Oct 14, 2018, through Jan 13, 2019. AP Willoughby, OH -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/17/2017 --For those seeking justice in the court for domestic issues like child custody or a divorce due to infidelity will need hardcore evidence to fight the battle. 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On Monday, the National Assembly, or parliament, approved four amendments to the countrys electoral law, paving the way for the 55 seats held by CNRP lawmakers to be redistributed to smaller government-aligned parties in the event that the opposition party is dissolved. In a statement Tuesday, CNRP lawmakersall of whom boycotted the sessioncalled the approval by ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) members of parliament an abuse of power [and] the will of the people. The lawmakers dismissed the amendments as violations of Articles 51 and 76 of the constitution, which state that Cambodias citizens control the fate of their nation, and that members of parliament be elected through free, fair, and secret ballots. They appealed to all national institutions with legislative authority to review and consider the will of the Cambodian people, who respect the constitution as the supreme law of the land, and urged the international community to reconsider its relationship with the countrys illegitimate rulers. The statement asserted that, by boycotting the approval of the amendments, the CNRPs lawmakers remained legal parliamentary representatives of the people, while opposition members elected in Junes commune ballot are also still operating in an official capacity. Mondays parliamentary session, which was attended by Prime Minister Hun Sen, involved no debate and took less than two hours to approve the amendments, which would see the royalist Funcinpec party take 41 seats from the opposition should the CNRP be outlawed ahead of a general election slated for next year. According to the new laws, the League for Democracy Party (LDP) would receive six of the CNRPs seats, the Khmer Anti-Poverty Party (KAPP) would receive five, the Cambodian Nationality Party (CNP) would assume two seats, and the Khmer Economic Development Party (KEDP) would be given one seat. Cheam Yeap, a senior CPP member of parliament who represents the bloc of lawmakers that proposed the legislation, has said that the amendments were a byproduct of Cambodias electoral maturation process and not intended to target any one party. On Tuesday, the National Assembly sent the approved amendments to Cambodias Senate Committee, which will review them over the next five days. The senate will send the amendments, with any proposed changes, back to parliaments Constitutional Council which, after further review, will forward them on to King Norodom Sihamoni for final approval. Earlier this month, Cambodian government lawyers submitted a petition to the countrys Supreme Court, asking that it formally dissolve the CNRP, and laying the groundwork for the amendments. The move followed the Sept. 3 arrest of CNRP leader Kem Sokha in the capital Phnom Penh and formal accusations against him of collaborating with the U.S. to topple Cambodias government, in a move critics say shows Hun Sen is intensifying his attacks on political opponents ahead of national elections scheduled for July 2018. Criticism of amendments In a statement Tuesday, the U.S. State Department said that, if ratified, the amendments would effectively disenfranchise the millions of people who voted for the CNRP in the 2013 and 2017 elections. Genuine competition is essential to democracy and to the legitimacy of the 2018 national elections, U.S. State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said. "We urge government officials to consider the serious implications of their recent actions. We renew our call that the leader of the CNRP, Kem Sokha, be released from prison." The amendments also drew condemnation from a consortium of indigenous ethnic groups in northeast Cambodias Mondulkiri province, which said in a statement Tuesday that the CPP was jeopardizing unity in the country. Kreung Tola, a representative of the group, told RFAs Khmer Service that if the CNRPs seats are confiscated, it would amount to robbing the people of their will. The National Assembly of Cambodia is Ike a robber who violates the rule of law, he said. He warned that the countrys indigenous communities are considering a boycott of the 2018 election if the CNRP is dissolved. Sok Ratha, a coordinator for the rights group Adhoc in Mondulkiri province, told RFA that amendments to Cambodias electoral law can only be carried out if doing so benefits the people and improves political participation for the countrys opposition parties. Legislative changes from a single-party vote in the National Assembly would be counter to the interests of the people and the entire nation, he said, adding that the amendments will undermine the democratic process ahead of the national election in 2018. San Chey, the executive director of the Affiliated Network for Social Accountability (ANSA), on Tuesday urged parliament to revise the amendments with greater attention paid to the concerns of the people, saying allowing them to be ratified in their current state would cause the international community to shun Cambodia. The rejection of the governments legitimacy by the international community will cause great harm to us by [driving off] major donors and investment, he said. If powerful countries, such as the U.S., enact economic sanctions against Cambodia, it will have a devastating impact on the living conditions of the people, he added. Military threats Also on Tuesday, Cambodias defense minister Tea Bahn vowed to use the military to smash any individuals who create social unrest if the CNRP is dissolved, and said the countrys soldiers are prepared to destroy anyone who dares to confront law enforcement, according to local media reports. Social commentator Meas Nee told RFA that Tea Bahns comments had hurt the moral standing of Cambodias military and lessened the peoples respect for the countrys Ministry of Defense. It is dangerous for Cambodia when the military is no longer independent, he said, adding that soldiers have an obligation to protect national sovereignty and integrity. This could lead Cambodian politics into a very fragile situation. In May, ahead of Cambodias commune elections, Tea Banh warned that the army would smash the teeth of anyone protesting a win by the CPP and quickly suppress any opposition protests like those that followed the CNRPs loss in national elections in 2013. Failing health Meanwhile, senior CNRP official Sam Sok Kong told RFA Tuesday that Kem Sokhas health is rapidly worsening as a result of the unhygienic conditions of his jail cell in Tbong Khmum provinces remote Trapeang Phlong prison. His family has brought medicine for him, but the guards restrict medicine brought from outside, he said, adding that Kem Sokha has also lacked access to proper health examinations. The CNRP chief has been carefully monitoring developments on his partys situation, despite his health concerns, Sam Sok Kong said, and believes the recently approved amendments are unacceptable. [Kem Sokha] said the amendments firstly abuse the peoples will, which is guaranteed protection in the constitution, and secondly violate the constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, he said. Regarding dissolving the CNRP, Kem Sokha said he wont need any lawyers, because the whole thing is politically motivated. Since Kem Sokhas arrest, some 20 CNRP lawmakers, along with deputy presidents Mu Sochua and Eng Chhay Eang and a number of party activists, have fled Cambodia fearing retaliation by the CPP following important electoral gains by the opposition in Junes commune ballot, which are seen as pointing to a strong showing in next years vote. Reported by Nareth Muong and Sarada Taing for RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Sarada Taing. Written in English by Joshua Lipes. Taiwan activists on called on the rest of the world to use social media to call attention to Beijing's human rights record, and its growing tendency to pursue its critics overseas. As part of international campaign to put pressure on President Xi Jinping over human rights in Tibet, rights groups in the democratic island say they plan to use social media to pressure China on its human rights record. "Checking in at the Great Hall of the People on Facebook is one way to express our concerns about Tibet," Lee Peng-hsuan of the International Tibet Network told a news conference in Taipei. "We can also post messages telling Beijing that its encroachment on human rights has not gone unnoticed. We are watching." Eeling Chiu, who heads the Taiwan Association for Human Rights, said rights groups are also concerned about the Chinese Communist Party's growing willingness to pursue its critics overseas, even those who aren't its nationals. Chiu pointed to the recent subversion trial of Taiwan democracy activist Lee Ming-cheh, who pleaded guilty to charges of "incitement to subvert state power" at his trial in Hunan's Yueyang city on Sept. 11. He was the first foreign national to be held under new laws governing NGO activity in China. "We have been seeing more and more such cases including Lee Ming-cheh," Chiu said. "There was also the case of [Hong Kong publisher and Swedish national] Gui Minhai, as well as examples of citizens of other countries being detained." In , the U.K. accused Beijing of breaching the handover treaty by removing bookseller and British national Lee Bo, whose "disappearance" alongside Gui and three other colleagues has been linked to the plans to publish a book about the Chinese president. There is no record of Lee leaving Hong Kong, suggesting that he was spirited across the internal immigration border by Chinese police, while Gui, who holds a Swedish passport, was effectively kidnapped while on vacation in Thailand. "We have even seen China try to extend its jurisdiction over other foreign nationals," Chiu said. "We think that this should send out a very strong warning signal." Violent attacks in Taiwan Taiwan professor Lin Hsiu-hsin, who heads an association of university professors, said China appears to be seeking to exert influence over the island's democracy via many different channels. "China has already used open violence in its attempts to interfere in Taiwan's democracy," Lin told RFA. "It supports various social groups to carry out violent attacks in public places on people whose opinions aren't the same as their own." "These actions seem sporadic and harmless, as if they have no power to harm us ... but they will have an invisible impact over time, so that people start to avoid publicly expressing themselves, which will hamper the democratic process in Taiwan," she said. "The Lee Ming-cheh incident is one such example, where Taiwan has been treated as if it is under China's jurisdiction." The International Tibet Network said in a report that China has effectively silenced the international community, citing Switzerland's ban on protests during Xi's visit there at the beginning of this year. Last week, immigration officers in Hong Kong turned away Benedict Rogers, a human rights activist for the U.K.'s ruling Conservative Party from the separately administered city, after Chinese officials warned him not to travel there. "Two years on, it is time for the international community to ask some very serious questions of China," Rogers wrote on the conservative current affairs site Unherd. "It is time to speak up for Gui Minhai." Gui's daughter Angela spoke to him three times in 2016, but hasn't been in touch with him for 16 months, Rogers said. "He has been denied access to legal counsel and Swedish consular assistance, he has not been officially charged or tried, and his whereabouts are unknown," he added, hitting out at Sweden for using a quiet diplomatic approach that "has not worked." Angela Gui told the New York Times in a recent interview: "What happened to my father ... shows that foreign citizens arent safe from Chinese state security, even when they are outside Chinas borders." "I find it strange that governments arent more worried about Chinas new self-proclaimed role as world police," she said. Reported by Tung Kuang-cheng for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by Hwang Chun-mei for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. China's Northwestern University signed an agreement with the Palace Museum in Beijing on Oct 13 to jointly work on protecting and promoting cultural relics and traditional culture. Chang Jiang, the university's vice-president, and some 700 representatives of the museum, the university and the Shaanxi provincial government, among others, attended the signing ceremony. The university's Party secretary Wang Yajie said at the event that the educational institution in the country's northwestern province will use its knowledge of archaeology and take advantage of the Palace Museums cultural resources to make the cooperation a success. Jeffrey Feltman (3rd L), the U.N.s under-secretary-general for political affairs, meets with Nyi Pu (R), chief minister of western Myanmar's Rakhine state, in the state capital Sittwe, Oct. 17, 2017. UPDATED at 5:20 P.M. EDT on 2017-10-18 A top-level United Nations diplomat met with officials in western Myanmar's Rakhine state on Tuesday to discuss the implementation of recommendations of an advisory commission that examined ethnic and religious strife in the beleaguered region. Jeffrey Feltman, the U.N.s under-secretary-general for political affairs, met with Nyi Pu, chief minister of Rakhine state, in the state capital Sittwe to discuss working together to implement recommendations outlined in a report by the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, said Aung Kyaw Zan, Rakhine's minister of electric power, industry, and transportation. We explained to him the three major points that we have given priority to in working on the Rakhine problem, Aung Kyaw Zan said. The commission led by former U.N. chief Kofi Annan issued its final report in August, which called for reviews of the countrys Citizenship Law and an end to restrictions on its Rohingya Muslim minority to prevent further violence in the region. The commission, appointed by State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi in August 2016, also advised the government to take concrete steps to end enforced segregation of ethnic Rakhine Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims, allow unfettered humanitarian access in Rakhine, address the statelessness of the Rohingya, hold accountable those who violate human rights, and end restrictions on the Rohingyas freedom of movement. In September, the government formed a committee led by Win Myat Aye, head of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement, to implement the commissions recommendations. Renata Lok-Dessallien, the U.N. resident and humanitarian coordinator in Myanmar, accompanied Feltman on the trip during which they met ethnic Rakhine people, Muslims, and Hindus living in Nga Khu Ya village and asked them about the situation of Rohingya Muslims who have fled to Bangladesh. They said they came here to learn about the situation on the ground and will work with us on humanitarian efforts, Aung Kyaw Zan said. Feltman, who has been in the country since Oct. 13, has met with Myanmars de factor leader Aung San Suu Kyi, military commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing, Win Myat Aye, and Shwe Mann, chairman of the Commission for the Assessment of Legal Affairs and Special Issues. He also met with Thein Swe, minister for labor, immigration, and population, and Lieutenant General Ye Aung, minster of border affairs, to discuss the citizenship process for Rohingya Muslims and the border situation. Earlier this year, the U.N. Human Rights Council established a fact-finding mission to examine the circumstances of alleged human rights violations by military and security forces in Rakhine state, but the Myanmar government has refused to grant the commissioners visas to enter the country. The UN issued a statement late on Tuesday saying that Feltman had "underscored the importance of accountability and non-discriminatory rule of law and public safety as part of the comprehensive approach needed to address the fears and distrust among communities in Rakhine." Better resettlement deal Also on Tuesday, Win Myat Aye said Myanmar will offer a better resettlement plan for returning Rohingya Muslims who fled to Bangladesh by allowing them to live in their previous homes and providing alternative housing for those who lost their homes. We have already said we will accept back refugees who fled to Bangladesh, but we will work on it with rules and laws, he told RFA. Myanmar and Bangladesh are discussing accepting these people back. He said Myanmar and Bangladeshi government officials will meet and form groups to work together on the repatriation of the refugees and to ensure no terrorists are among those who return. Bangladeshi and international humanitarian agencies have been struggling to accommodate and provide basic services for the hundreds of thousands of Rohingya who left northern Rakhineduring a military crackdown following deadly Aug. 25 attacks on 30 police posts and an army facility. The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), a militant Muslim group, claimed responsibility for the attacks as well as for deadly smaller-scale raids on three border guard stations in October 2016. The most recent crackdown has driven more than 580,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh where they are staying in refugee camps, while thousands more attempt to cross the border into Bangladesh. Win Myat Aye told RFAs Myanmar Service that Maungdaw township, which bore the brunt of the recent violence in northern Rakhine, was stable during his humanitarian mission to the area to give money and food to households in various villages, including Pantawpyin Muslim village and Kone Tine ethnic Mro village. As far as I can see, Maungdaws situation is stable and calm, he said. New satellite images New York-based Human Rights Watch on Tuesday said newly released satellite images of northern Rakhine showed that at least 288 villages have been partially or totally destroyed by fire since Aug. 25, encompassing tens of thousands of homes mostly belonging to Rohingya Muslims. Analysis of the imagery indicates that the burnings focused on Rohingya villages in Maungdaw, Buthidaung, and Rathedaung townships, which were located next to intact ethnic Rakhine villages, and occurred after Myanmar officials said security operations had ended on Sept. 5, HRW said in a statement. Myanmars military responded to the ARSA attacks on Aug. 25 with a brutal campaign that the U.N., rights groups, and others say amounts to ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity. These latest satellite images show why over half a million Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in just four weeks, said Phil Robertson, HRWs deputy Asia director, in the statement. The Burmese military destroyed hundreds of Rohingya villages while committing killings, rapes, and other crimes against humanity that forced Rohingya to flee for their lives. Win Myat Aye accused HRW of presenting false information. Daw [honorific] Aung San Suu Kyi said the truth, he told RFA, referring to the state counselors recent public speech in which she said that attacks and military operations ended in northern Rakhine on Sept. 5. We have had no attacks, clashes, operations, or engagements since Sept. 5, he said. I dont know why HRW said untruthful information. HRW also pointed out that while the Myanmar government has repeatedly said that ARSA insurgents and Rohingya residents torched their own villages, it has offered no evidence to support the claims. The group also said that Rohingya refugees it interviewed in Bangladesh did not indicate that ARSA militants or villagers were responsible for the arson. On this point, Win Myat Aye said: They said what they heard, but we are working on the ground here in Maungdaw region and see the real situation. What we have been seeing is different from what they said. When asked if the Myanmar government could verify whether HRWs satellite images are authentic, Win Myat Aye said no one had time because everyone has been busy with dealing with the crisis in Rakhine state. We havent had time to respond to the accusations because we have been very busy with working on Rakhine state, the many problems in the country, and the democratic transition, he said. We will prove the truth by working, he said. We are doing our best in the situation on the ground. We are working with accountability for all people in Myanmar, especially for people in Rakhine state, and we want the world know it. On Monday, the European Council, the body charged with defining the European Unions political direction and priorities, said it would review all practical defense cooperation with the Myanmar army and may consider measures in addition to an embargo on arms and equipment that can be used for internal repression if the situation in Rakhine does not improve. It also called for the quick and full implementation of recommendations of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, especially the granting of citizenship to the stateless Rohingya. We have nothing to do with the EUs decision that was made based on what they heard, said Win Myat Aye. But the truth will come out one day. Reported by Thiri Min Zin, Min Thein Aung, and Khin Khin Ei for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. Rohingya refugees carry a woman over a shallow canal after crossing the Naf River as they flee violence in Myanmar to reach Bangladesh in Palongkhali near Ukhia, Oct. 16, 2017. As many as 15,000 new Rohingya refugees entered Bangladesh since Sunday, U.N. officials said Tuesday, as new satellite imagery showed tens of thousands of structures, primarily homes inhabited by ethnic Rohingya Muslims had been burned in Myanmars Rakhine state. But authorities in southeastern Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of the worlds fastest-growing refugee crisis, said many more new arrivals about 40,000 refugees had crossed over from Myanmar within the past 72 hours. An analysis of newly released satellite images revealed 288 Rohingya villages were targeted in arson attacks in Rakhine since Aug. 25, and 66 of those villages were burned after Myanmar officials claimed the militarys clearance operations in Rakhine state had ceased in early September, Human Rights Watch reported Tuesday. Some newcomers said they had escaped Rakhine amid a critical food shortage, which, they alleged, was forced upon their minority-Muslim community by the military. We had been almost starving, along with our kids, for a long time, refugee Md Islam, 45, a resident of a village in Buthidaung township told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service. [W]e were almost confined in our houses for days after days. Panic gripped our life. How long could we survive in such a situation? His family ran out of food and all the local markets had been shut since the Myanmar army and Rakhine Buddhist militia targeted his village in attacks, he said. Inhuman torture is going on in Rakhine, fellow refugee Abdur Rashid told BenarNews, adding that the Myanmar army has been creating an artificial food crisis to force Rohingya to flee. Another Rohingya from Buthidaung, Md Alam, told BenarNews he and others had trekked through hills, fields and marshes for the past 10 days to come to Bangladesh for survival. Stranded On Tuesday, international aid agencies sharply revised upward their overall estimate for the number of Rohingya refugees who have fled to southeastern Bangladesh amid a cycle of violence in Rakhine that broke out on Aug. 25. About 582,000 Rohingya refugees have crossed into Bangladesh since late August, the U.N. and international humanitarian agencies reported. Around 40,000 Rohingyas have entered Bangladesh through [border points] of Ukhia in three days, Md Ali Hossain, the deputy commissioner of Coxs Bazar district, which encompasses the sub-district of Ukhia, told BenarNews. Speaking in Geneva, U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) spokesman Andrej Mahecic said the latest arrivals, numbering 10,000 to 15,000 people were stranded near Anjuman Para village in Ukhia. Many told relief workers they had walked for a week to reach Bangladesh after their villages were set on fire. As of this morning they are still squatting in the paddy fields of Anjuman Para village in Bangladesh, he said. They are waiting for permission to move away from the border, where the sound of gunfire continues to be heard every night from the Myanmar side. Malaysia calls for safe zone Also on Tuesday, Malaysias deputy prime minister told Malaysian media the government would propose that the U.N. Security Council adopt a resolution to create a U.N.-monitored safe zone so hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees could return to Myanmar unharmed. As he wrapped up a two-day visit to Bangladesh during which he toured a refugee camp in the southeast, Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Ahmad Hamidi announced some Malaysian government proposals aimed at alleviating the refugee crisis stemming from violence across the border in Rakhine state. These include proposing to the United Nations for the region to be made a security zone , Malaysias state news agency Bernama quoted Zahid as saying. Maybe U.N. Security Council members can raise this matter for it to be made a resolution so that finally when the Rohingya return, there is a U.N. monitoring team there in place, he said. Zahids statement followed similar comments made by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during a speech before the United Nations General Assembly in September, when she called for creating U.N.-supervised safe zones inside Myanmar to protect Rohingya Muslims from further violence. Malaysia, which has been cleared by Bangladesh to build a 100-bed field hospital in Coxs Bazar to treat sick or injured Rohingya refugees, also will assign a special attache to its embassy in Dhaka to help coordinate humanitarian assistance to the refugees, Zahid said. Malaysia believes that the Rohingya humanitarian crisis needs to be settled through regional cooperation, especially among ASEAN countries, he added, according to Malaysias Star newspaper. Although Myanmar is an ASEAN member, we want to make it clear that the Rohingya issue transcends geographical borders, he said, adding, We have no wish to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, but it should be understood that the Rohingya issue is a regional problem. Efforts must be scaled up Bangladesh and humanitarian agencies have been struggling to accommodate and provide basic services for the hundreds of thousands of Rohingya who fled northern Rakhine during a military crackdown following deadly attacks on 30 police posts and an army facility on Aug. 25. The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), a militant group, claimed responsibility for the attacks as well as for deadly smaller-scale raids on three border guard stations in October 2016. Myanmar authorities have rejected widespread international criticism that their security forces targeted Rohingya civilians in atrocities such as killings, rapes and the burning of villages. They have blamed ARSA insurgents for the violence. On Monday, the European Union announced it was reviewing military cooperation with Myanmar, as the bloc called on Myanmar to bring to justice the perpetrators of crimes against the Rohingya. Meanwhile, three top U.N. officials, including the heads of UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration, issued a joint statement urging the international community to raise U.S. $434 million quickly to deal with the major humanitarian emergency unfolding in southeast Bangladesh. The efforts must be scaled up and expanded to receive and protect refugees and ensure they are provided with basic shelter and acceptable living conditions, the officials said Monday. Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service. Vietnamese and international human rights groups called this week on the government of Vietnam to end what they called an unprecedented crackdown on peaceful political expression that has seen at least 25 activists and bloggers jailed or exiled so far this year. Writing in an open letter dated Oct. 16, the coalitionincluding Vietnam-based rights organizations and groups like Reporters Without Borders based in Western countriessaid the ongoing campaign of persecution violates international law, damages Vietnams reputation abroad, and limits the countrys progress. The government of Vietnam, a one-party communist state, has resorted to unsubstantiated national security charges (especially Articles 79 and 88 of the Vietnamese Penal Code) to justify repression of free expression, free information and peaceful advocacy, the statement said. Vietnamese authorities continually resort to tactics of prosecution, arbitrary detention, abuse, and harassment to silence dissenting voices. Along with drawing attention to the plight of those sentenced or detained, the group says it aims in a sustained campaign to provide support to jailed activists and their families, and to push for diplomatic pressure on Hanoi to ensure the release of all political prisoners. Other organizations signing the letter include the Bau Bi Tuong Than Association, the Brotherhood for Democracy, Chan Hung Nuoc Viet, Defend the Defenders, English PEN, Lawyers for Lawyers, Lawyers Rights Watch Canada, the Viet Labor Movement, and Viet Tan. Activist still missing Meanwhile, Nguyen Bac Truyen, a member of the online Brotherhood for Democracy advocacy group, remains missing since his July 30 arrest in Vietnam in circumstances that his family members described as a kidnapping. Group members also taken into custody were Protestant pastor Nguyen Trung Ton, 45, engineer Pham Van Troi, 45, and journalist Truong Minh Duc, 57, according to a statement on the website of Vietnams Ministry of Public Security. The four men were charged with carrying out activities aimed at overthrowing the peoples administration under Article 70 of Vietnams Penal Code and could face the death penalty if convicted. Speaking to RFAs Vietnamese Service on Oct. 17, Truyens wife Kim Phuong said she has received no news of her husband since his arrest. Every time I try to visit him, I leave some things for him to have, but I never know if he has received them. I also dont know how he is doing, or whether he has been tortured, she said. The Ministry of Public Security once told me that he was being held at the B14 Detention Center in Hanoi, but I have no way of know if theyre telling me the truth. Summoned by police Also speaking to RFA, Danang-based activist Khuc Thua Son said he has been continuously summoned by authorities for questioning and must now report to police on Oct. 20 to clarify issues relating to an unspecified case. The summons was not clear, and I asked them for further explanation, but they havent responded, he said. Because I wasnt at home, they came to bother my parents, leaving them frightened and depressed. Reported by RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by Emily Peyman. Written in English by Richard Finney. Two controversial natural gas pipelines that would carve through some of Virginias most mountainous terrain cleared another hurdle on their way to construction Monday when the Virginia Outdoors Foundations board approved the conversion of 11 protective easements on land in the pipelines path. The board of trustees of the public land preservation organization allowed the conversion of one open-space easement for EQT Midstream Partners Mountain Valley Pipeline, which would run more than 300 miles from West Virginia into Pittsylvania County, and 10 for the 600-mile, Dominion Energy-led Atlantic Coast Pipeline, which would run through the center of the state on its way from West Virginia to North Carolina. In exchange for crossing a little more than 53 acres of protected land, the pipeline developers agreed to convey to the foundation nearly 1,130 acres of substitute land in Highland, Nelson and Roanoke counties. Dominion agreed to substitute a 1,034-acre property in Highland County called the Hayfields Farm and an 85-acre parcel in Nelson County along the Rockfish River, as well as $4 million in stewardship funds for the land. Mountain Valley Pipeline is conveying a 10.25-acre property in Roanoke County and $75,000 in stewardship money. We recognize that the conversion of easements is a very significant step for the board, to be approached with the utmost seriousness, said Brian Wilson, Dominions director of natural gas infrastructure development. We have made every effort to develop a route for the pipeline that minimizes its effect on these easements. Several board members characterized the vote as the best deal that VOF, which in February delayed a decision on the conversion requests, could hope for in the face of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commissions issuance on Friday night of certificates of public convenience and necessity for both pipelines. That approval gives the developers the power of eminent domain to take property in the path of the project, and the board members and their staff said they risked coming away with nothing for Virginia residents in a court proceeding. Were it my choice, I would stand in front of the pipeline and stop it. But thats not going to work, said Stephanie Ridder, the boards chairwoman. Ridder noted that the foundations staff has spent the past three years working on a deal that, to the maximum extent possible, reduces the effect on easement-protected land and secures a large increase in protected land. We brought our influence to bear to get the best outcome we could for the affected landowners and the citizens of the commonwealth, said Brett Glymph, executive director of the VOF, which has 800,000 acres of conserved land across the state. At one point, the Atlantic Coast and Mountain Valley pipelines were to cross roughly triple the number of open-space easements, she noted. Aaron Ruby, a Dominion spokesman, said the decision shows that by working together, industry and the conservation community can responsibly develop public infrastructure in a way that preserves the environment. Though some pipeline opponents and affected landowners had urged the board to turn down the applications and face the pipeline developers in court, the board and its staff didnt see much promise in that route. There exists the possibility that nobody gets anything but a few pennies on the acreage, Ridder said. And while numerous speakers at the foundations meetings said the move would undermine the confidence that landowners place in the foundation when they put property under its protection, Mondays decision doesnt cede any power the foundation has previously held, board members said. Though the applications by ACP and MVP dont meet the requirements of Virginia law, FERCs issuance of the certificate operates to supersede and pre-empt any authority of VOF to evaluate the project, the boards resolutions say. Since the time of Alexander Hamilton, federal has always trumped state and local, said board member Elizabeth Obenshain. I dont think there should be landowners who put conservation easements on their land who think it is a shield against everything. ... This has been a difficult decision for all of us. None of us like gas pipelines. Rather, Ridder said, refusing to approve the conversions could have set a different precedent. We would have risked a negotiation we worked on for years, she said. The precedent that would have been set was Dominion would have gone directly to eminent domain and skip negotiations. Two members of the board abstained from the vote on the Atlantic Coast Pipeline easements. Viola O. Baskerville said she abstained because of a family property in Buckingham that would be directly impacted by the project. Board member Thomas G. Slater Jr. declined to explain his abstention. Im not in a position to comment on that, he said after the more than six-hour meeting, which included an hourslong closed session. *** The decision to allow the conversion of easements shifts focus to the Virginia State Water Control Board meetings in December on water-quality certifications for the pipelines, which environmental groups contend cannot be built without damaging the hundreds of Virginia waterways they will cross. Other efforts to defeat the Atlantic Coast Pipeline have focused on Dominions plans to recoup from its ratepayers much of the projects roughly $5.5 billion price tag. The Sierra Club and Appalachian Mountain Advocates, an environmental law group with an office in Charlottesville, have filed a notice of appeal to the Virginia Supreme Court in an attempt to force a review by the Virginia State Corporation Commission of the contracts for gas capacity between the Atlantic Coast Pipeline and Dominions subsidiaries. These arrangements between corporate affiliates encourage their parent companies to build unnecessary infrastructure like the ACP that would likely not be built if those companies had to rely on independent purchasers, the Sierra Club said in a statement. As a result of this interaffiliate agreement, Dominion stands to reap major profits on the ACP, which will be paid for by its customers through increased electricity bills. An industry expert retained by the Southern Environmental Law Center in Charlottesville contends that the ACP could cost Dominion ratepayers as much as $2.4 billion in additional costs. However, the State Corporation Commission ruled in September that the proper venue for weighing whether Dominion can charge its ratepayers for the cost of the ACP gas is the yearly fuel factor proceedings the commission conducts. The commission said that approval of an agreement between Dominion and its subsidiary, Virginia Power Services Energy Corp., does not absolve (Dominion) from its obligation to show that the fuel costs it pays to VPSE are just and reasonable. Ruby, the Dominion spokesman, said the SCC has a robust process in place to protect Virginia ratepayers. A Petersburg man was arrested Tuesday on charges related to a loaded handgun that was found in the possession of a Colonial Heights elementary school student while riding a bus on a field trip. Stanley B. Banks Jr., 30, of the 500 block of Harrison Street, was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and allowing a juvenile access to a firearm, police said in a release. Police said the charges stem from an incident earlier Tuesday in which children from Lakeview Elementary School were being transported on a school bus about 10 a.m. to a field trip. While en route, a school employee observed a gun in the pants pocket of one of the students, police said. The gun was immediately seized and the student was returned to the school. The schools resource officer and an investigator were alerted, and an investigation ensued. Police determined that a family friend of the student had left his handgun at the students home the night before. Police said the gun was loaded, but it did not have a bullet in the chamber. It was unclear how the gun came into the students possession. Colonial Heights school officials could not immediately be reached on how many students were aboard the bus and where they were heading on their field trip. Banks was released on bond pending a hearing Oct. 27 in Colonial Heights Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. Anyone with further information about the incident can call Colonial Heights police at (804) 520-9300 (option 7) or Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Crime Solvers at (804) 748-0660. UPDATE: The Jefferson Davis statue on Monument Avenue has been vandalized for the second time this week. After being cleaned on Tuesday to remove the word "racist," which had been painted on the statue's base, the monument was hit by vandals again overnight. On Wednesday, the word "racist" can be seen spray-painted in nearly the exact same spot on the statue's base, and the words "Ban KKK" were included just below. (This is breaking news. Check Richmond.com throughout the day for more updates.) Earlier: The Jefferson Davis statue on Monument Avenue was vandalized either late Monday or early Tuesday. The word racist was painted in red on the base of the statue, which is at the intersection of North Davis and Monument avenues. Richmonds Monument Avenue, a National Historic Landmark District, also features statues of Confederate leaders Robert E. Lee, J.E.B Stuart, Stonewall Jackson and Matthew Fontaine Maury. The vandalism comes as places across the nation, including Richmond, decide whether to remove or add context to Confederate monuments in the wake of the violence in Charlottesville earlier this year. The vandalism is just the latest to hit a city monument in recent years. In August, the J.E.B. Stuart statue was splattered with pine tar. Last year, three statues on Monument Avenue were tagged with spray paint after the election of President Donald Trump. The message Your vote was a hate crime was scrawled on monuments to Davis and oceanographer Maury. The statue of Lee was vandalized with an expletive directed at Trump and the letters KKK. Also last year, red paint was splattered on the statue of Christopher Columbus in Byrd Park. The statue was defaced with spray paint in 2015. In July 2015, Joseph Weindl, 39, of Richmond, was sentenced to 100 hours of community service for defacing the Davis statue. The incident involving Weindl came shortly after someone had spray-painted Black Lives Matter on the base of the statue. Also in 2015, the Confederate Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Libby Hill Park was defaced with spray paint. In 2014, the Stuart statue was painted with a cryptic anti-work message, accompanied by what appeared to be a Soviet hammer and sickle. In 2012, the Lee statue was defaced with five-O. In July, Mayor Levar Stoney established the Monument Avenue Commission to study ways to add historical context to the monuments. The commission canceled a public hearing in September in the interests of public safety after a Charlottesville rally of white supremacists resulted in three deaths. Students studying in China join a group to visit the Terracotta Warriors museum in Xi'an, Shaanxi province. [Photo by Yang Feiyue/China Daily] Inbound tourism numbers are on the rise, thanks in part to a growing number of overseas Chinese language students making visits to the country. Yang Feiyue reports. Alina Salionova joined a six-day trip jointly hosted by Chinese online travel giant Ctrip and a subsidiary of the Confucius Institute to visit some of China's top tourist attractions ahead of the busy National Day holiday week. The Russian woman and two friends joined a group of more than 60 tourists from dozens of countries to visit the Great Wall and the Palace Museum in Beijing, the ancient walled city of Pingyao in Shanxi province, and the Terracotta Warriors in Shaanxi province. "I've always wanted to see the Terracotta Warriors. This trip is a dream come true for me," Salionova says. Salionova began to study Chinese at the Confucius Institute in her home country five years ago to develop her interest in the Chinese language and its culture. "China has many famous places and a long history, and people are kind and quick to help when you're in need," Salionova adds. She first visited Beijing to watch the 2008 Olympic Games and since then has visited Harbin in Northeast China's Heilongjiang province and Shanghai and Hangzhou in the east for summer vacations. Salionova is just one of the growing number of inbound travelers to China. China received 69.5 million inbound visits in the first six months of the year, compared to 62.3 million outbound visits, according to a National Tourism Administration report. In 2016, the number of inbound visitors reached 138 million, a historical high since the international financial crisis of 2008 and an increase of 3.5 percent over the previous year. In a speech last week in Richmond, Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam may have been a little too nice for his own good. Speaking at the annual awards dinner by the conservation group VIRGINIAforever, Northam, the Democratic nominee for governor, gave a shout out to one of the top Republicans in Virginia politics: Del. M. Kirkland Cox of Colonial Heights, who was being honored with the groups 2017 Bridge Builder Award. Thanks for your leadership, by the way, Northam said. I look forward to you being the Speaker of the House. As a former state senator, Northam has stressed his experience and relationships at the statehouse as evidence hell be able to produce bipartisan results. But his acknowledgement that Cox will probably still be in the top House job next year cuts against the high hopes of Democrats who insist they have a real chance of flipping enough Republican seats to win a majority and derail the GOP succession plan laid out earlier this year. In February, House Republicans unofficially chose Cox, a former teacher who has served as House majority leader since 2010, to take the reins from retiring House Speaker William J. Howell, R-Stafford. With a wave of challengers forcing Republicans to defend their seats in 17 districts won by Democrat Hillary Clinton in last years presidential race, Democrats are hoping to chip away at the 66-34 GOP House majority. When Northam now locked in a close race against Republican Ed Gillespie beat former congressman Tom Perriello in the June Democratic gubernatorial primary, Perriello turned his focus toward flipping the House through his Win Virginia political action committee. Before Cox can become speaker, he has to beat his own Democratic challenger, something he hasnt had to do in decades. Katie Sponsler, a former park ranger turned full-time mom, is running against Cox in the Chesterfield County-based 66th District. Sponslers campaign gave no indication it saw Northams comment as a snub. In a statement, Sponsler campaign Field Director Rusty Tutton called Northam a strong supporter of Sponsler who believes she can win. His comments were at a dinner where Mr. Cox was being honored and he was speaking in the spirit of the event, Tutton said. A moment of unity doesnt change the fact that Kirk and his partys rigid control of the House has been a disaster for Virginians. Fewer Virginians have health insurance and Virginia schools have fewer dollars to spend on educating our children. In a statement, Cox spokesman Parker Slaybaugh said Cox appreciates Northams acknowledgement, and all House Republicans are sprinting through the tape on Election Day. We are confident that voters will look at their record of balancing the budget, keeping taxes low and strengthening our schools, and see that its not about who controls what, but who gets things done for the people, Slaybaugh said. On the same day as Northams comment at the VIRGINIAforever event, Northam told InsideNova.com he was confident Democrats will win a House majority. His campaign said Tuesday that his view has not changed. We still feel confident that with a record number of House districts put in play, that gives Democrats a historic opportunity to take back the House of Delegates, said Northam spokesman David Turner. And were working tirelessly every day to make sure thats a reality. Perriello, who quickly endorsed Northam after the primary, said Northam has done more than a dozen recent events with House candidates, and he expects the synergy developing between Northam and down-ticket candidates to pay off in November. ROANOKE So smitten was Linwood Holton with Roanokes Virginia Jinks Rogers that the future governor of Virginia stood up his mother for Christmas to go on a blind date with her. Holton had landed in Roanoke in 1949 because he figured it was a good place to launch his political career. A few other things happened along the way. He married Rogers in 1953. They had two sons and two daughters, all born here, who have since married and given them 10 grandchildren. Were 20 now, Holton said. And thats what happens when you go to Roanoke. On Monday, decades after Holton began his family here, Roanoke claimed the segregation-busting Republican as its own son with the dedication of a plaza in downtown named for him and commemorating his legacy. We love Roanoke dearly, and we are extremely proud of the fact that Roanoke has dedicated a little corner of its park that says, Hes mine, Holton, 94, said at the dedication. He was again surrounded by family in Roanoke, including Jinks, all of their children and also his son-in-law, U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine. Kaine is married to Anne Holton, who is herself a former state secretary of education. Linwood always did what he thought was right no matter what the consequence, said Kaine, a Democrat. Lins my hero, my political hero. The day served as a special edition of the annual Holton family reunion, or as Holton calls it, the mandatory show up. Anne Holton seized the opportunity, organizing all 20 or so family members present for photos after the ribbon cutting was done. Holton, a native of Big Stone Gap, came to Roanoke after graduating from Harvard Law School to launch a mission to break the hold of the segregationist Byrd Machine that had controlled state government for decades. Holtons 1969 victory made him the first elected Republican governor in Virginia in the 20th century. He built the modern two-party system in Virginia politics, Kaine said. He called Holton a man of vision, persistence and principle. Kaine, who nearly became the countrys vice president as running mate to Hillary Clinton last year, said he never would have contemplated running for office if not for his father-in-law. During his speech, Kaine described Holton as growing up in Big Stone Gap with an awareness that the single-party politics of Sen. Harry Byrds Democratic machine was bad for Virginia, and an awareness that the equality the Byrd Machine opposed was what Virginia needed. After college at Washington and Lee University, Holton served in the Navy as a submariner and participating in the occupation of Japan after World War II ended. From there it was law school and then Roanoke. He believed Roanoke was a good place to begin establishment of a two-party political system because, Holton has said, it was not an old South city, having been founded after the Civil War ended. Though Roanoke was highly segregated and slow-walked school integration until the early 1970s, Holton saw it as more free of the plantation mentality of old South cities that favored segregation. Holton lost two bids for the General Assembly and a 1965 run for governor before winning the states highest office in 1969. It justified the faith I had in Roanoke as being the place where I thought that it could begin, Holton said Monday. Holton attacked Virginias legacy of Massive Resistance to school integration right away. He famously enrolled his children in formerly all-black Richmond schools when he moved into the governors mansion. Let our goal in Virginia be an aristocracy of ability, regardless of race, color or creed, he said in his inaugural address. That quote is among those engraved on bench walls that line Holton Plaza. It also features a low obelisk with four plaques describing Holtons life before coming to Roanoke in 1949, his time in the city, his achievements as governor and his work after leaving office. Other accomplishments cited there include initiating creation of Virginias governors schools, providing the first state funds for community mental health centers and protecting the natural environment by fighting pollution. But Holton remains most remembered for his stand on racial equality. Mayor Sherman Lea called Holton a trailblazer who appointed more African-Americans and women to high offices in state government than any previous governor. He would pick the equality principle over loyalty to party, Kaine said. And it cost him, Kaine added. In a bid for the U.S. Senate, Holton finished third in a primary, unable to garner the support of his own party. The plaza, on Franklin Road across from Elmwood Park, was the brainchild of Roanoke City Councilman Bill Bestpitch. We need to remember the kind of courage that it took in 1970 to say that the era of defiance is behind us, Bestpitch said, quoting Holtons inaugural address. Bestpitch also presented Holton with a key to the city. By FRANK HYMAN Two of our last three presidents lost the popular vote yet were going to be living with the judges they chose, the bills they signed and the executive orders they wrote for a long time. That doesnt happen in any other country. When George W. Bush lost the popular vote, but won the 2000 election, my heart turned to ash. That our country would award its highest office to the loser because he had prevailed in a few smaller states favored by the Electoral College just seemed wrong. There had to be a way to keep this from happening again. I brought it up with a number of friends: I argued for dumping the Electoral College. I could summarize their responses as shrugs coupled with statements like, Its a once-in-a-lifetime thing. ... Not worth the fight. ... Wont happen again. Fast-forward to 2016. It happens again. Donald Trump lost by almost 3 million votes. But instead of getting what he deserved a very nice second-place ribbon he won the presidency. And the enmity of a nation left feeling powerless. In the days after the election, as you might imagine, those friends whod differed with me years ago rang my phone off the hook to say, Mea culpa! We have to unplug the Electoral College so this wont happen again! Well, just as phones no longer have dials, rings or hooks, no one actually said those things to me. But Id like to believe they are having those thoughts. Perhaps you are, too. Neutralizing the Electoral College not only strengthens our democracy and sends a message of repudiation to Donald Trump. It addresses a timely issue. Where did the Electoral College come from? The conventional wisdom is that the Founders fabricated the Electoral College simply to protect the smaller states. But why dont any of the 50 states use the practice to protect less populated counties? And why dont any other democratic nations use an electoral college to choose their chief executives? The truth is that, like a Confederate soldier on a pedestal, the Electoral College originally stood on two legs, both of which skewed power in favor of slave states. First, by counting enslaved non-voters as three-fifths of a person, slave states gained more seats in the U.S. House as well as additional seats in the Electoral College. In 1800, Pennsylvania had 10 percent more free persons than slave-state Virginia. But it also had 20 percent fewer electoral votes. Clearly this feature worked as intended. For 32 of our first 36 years slave-owning Virginians held the presidency. Granted, this practice no longer applies, but it reveals the poisoned ground from which the undemocratic Electoral College grew. And explains its total absence in other democracies. Second, regardless of size, each state also received a pair of electors to match its two U.S. Senators. These two-votes-per-state in the Electoral College were another means for putting the slave owners heavy thumbs on the scale of democracy. This feature still benefits small states. But we dont have to live with the dead hands of the slave owners tucked into our ballot boxes forever. How can we fix this? Striking the Electoral College from the Constitution can only be done with a two-thirds vote of Congress and the endorsement of 38 of the 50 states. So it wont be happening under the present congressional leadership. But a quicker, legal work-around is called the Interstate Compact (www.nationalpopularvote.com). Eleven states with 165 electoral votes have already approved the Compact, which commits their Electors to the winner of the national popular vote. When states with another 105 Electors (270 are required to win the presidency) support the Compact, the Electoral College becomes meaningless. If enough citizens on the left, right and center (Never-Trumpers, are you listening?) want to ensure that our next president is the one with the most votes in 2020 then we have to elect a lot of pro-Compact state legislators in 2018. Only then can we dismantle the biggest, most dangerous monument from our slave-owning past. And send a message to President Trump too. Have a story idea or tip about something happening in the East Village? Or maybe a photo? Or several photos? Or video! We'd love to hear about it. Or see it. Or something. Please go here to submit a tip. A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind. Naomi Bolling knows her customers at The Bandroom like a musician remembers notes on a page. She can name which music books they are looking for if they describe the cover art. She recognizes faces that come into the store and often will recall teaching their parents. She knows which piano teachers like to pick up music books and thumb through them before they buy. Often, customers stay and talk about students, or music, or what is going on in their lives. That is why its so bittersweet for Bolling, 81, to say goodbye to The Bandroom. After nearly 40 years at the helm, she is retiring and closing the Brambleton Avenue store. The Bandrooms last day open will be Oct. 28. The people I will miss the most, Bolling said. They seem more like friends than just customers. She finally decided to close up shop after her doctor told her to slow down on her work for her health. Bollings experience in the Roanoke Valley music scene stretches across more than 60 years. Her first job was at McAvoy Music House in downtown Roanoke, where she was able to put her piano and organ talents to use. She left in the 1970s and worked for Pauls Music in Salem. While she was there, she and an instrument repairman and musician teamed up to open their own music shop, offering music books, instrument rentals, repairs and retail. The Bandroom opened in 1978 in Roanoke County. It was the first store in the newly constructed Brambleton Plaza, which now houses Reminis restaurant and other retailers. Bolling soon learned that music teachers needed a place to provide lessons, so the Bandroom expanded after a year and added four music studios, which were rented out to teachers. More than 100 lessons are still taught in the shop each week. After about five years, the shops co-owner left the business, but Bolling got some help from home. Not long after The Bandroom opened, Bollings daughter, Donna Griggs, began helping out, eventually managing the store full-time with her mom. Bolling adored their time together and said they got along as well as any co-workers could. We get along better than most because were so busy we dont have time to argue, Griggs told The Roanoke Times in a 1986 interview about the mother-daughter business team. But in 1992, at age 33, Griggs died from sudden health issues. Bolling closed the shop for a week and went into the store by herself during the closure to get used to working without her daughter there. Over the years, Bolling had several longtime employees. They were joined by music teachers and former high school band members who would come in and help when needed. To many of them, it was more than just a store. Its the outcome of a passion, said Steve Hedrick, a former band instructor and trumpet player who has spent a lot of time in the store, both as a customer and as a helping hand now and again. That passion makes Naomis business a success all these years, he said. While the business has seen good days and bad days, Bolling doesnt have tales of woe from the Great Recession. She has witnessed ups and downs in the economy in her 39 years of owning The Bandroom, but even during bad times, she said, customers still came, treating their childrens music education as a necessity. Now, the shops music teachers are all taking their lessons to new studios, most nearby, Bolling said. Everything in the store will be sold. Bolling said she is sad but hopes she perks up after she settles into her retired life shes not one to sit at home and watch TV and mope about having nothing to do, she said. She plans to visit with her son, John, and two grandchildren, and to spend more time working on her house, which she said needs tending to because her husband of nearly 50 years died six years ago. She also plans to volunteer her musical skills at nursing homes. Her retirement also will allow her to take part in one of her favorite activities: attending concerts. She is particularly fond of church choirs and organ music. She had to turn down a lot of concert invitations over the years to work in the store. Now, she said, its time for her to be the one listening to the music. Democrat Ralph Northam had amassed a sizable fundraising advantage over Republican Ed Gillespie entering October, more than doubling his GOP rival in cash on hand after taking in $7.1 million in September, according to campaign finance reports filed this week. As of Sept. 30, Northam, Virginias current lieutenant governor, had $5.6 million in the bank, compared with a little less than $2.5 million for Gillespie. The former Republican National Committee chairman took in nearly $4.4 million in September. Libertarian Cliff Hyra pulled in $9,053 for the month, ending with $4,280 on hand, according to reports compiled by the Virginia Public Access Project. The reports had to be filed with the state by midnight Monday. With most polls showing Northam slightly ahead in a relatively close race, money could be an important factor in late October and early November when both campaigns are looking to flood the TV airwaves with ads in what is expected to be a low-turnout election. Northams largest cash donations for the period were $1 million from the Democratic Governors Association, $450,000 from anti-gun-violence group Everytown for Gun Safety, $300,000 from the Laborers Political League Education Fund and $225,000 from the United Food and Commercial Workers. Northam also reported $2.1 million in in-kind contributions, including $873,826 from the Virginia League of Conservation Voters and $704,244 from the NextGen Climate Action Committee, the clean energy organization spearheaded by billionaire Tom Steyer. Gillespies top donations for the period were $1 million from the Republican Governors Association, $100,000 from Roanoke businessman Nicholas Taubman, $100,000 from Houston Texans owner Robert McNair and $100,000 from Northern Virginia homebuilder Dwight Schar, a part owner of the Washington Redskins. Former President George W. Bush held fundraisers with Gillespie on Monday in Richmond and in Northern Virginia. Though Northam took in several big checks from Democratic-aligned interest groups, he far outpaced Gillespie in small-dollar donations. Northam received 6,860 contributions of $100 or less, compared to 2,739 for Gillespie. Northam spokesman David Turner said the campaign finance reports show Gillespie has both funding issues and enthusiasm issues. The latter, Turner said, were on display over the weekend when Gillespie rallied with Vice President Mike Pence in an Abingdon exhibition hall that was half full. I think it signifies the broad cross-section of support that Dr. Northam has across Virginia, Turner said of the money disparity. And I think it also highlights Ed Gillespies lack of momentum and lackluster campaign. Hes been unable to rouse the support of his base. On a press call with reporters, Gillespie said Northam may be reaping the benefits of union money because he has abandoned strong support for our right-to-work laws. We have the resources we need to get our message out and to make sure that voters know the clear choice in this election, said Gillespie, adding that he always expected to be outraised while running against someone who already holds a statewide elected office. In the race for lieutenant governor, Democrat Justin Fairfax, a former federal prosecutor, had a sizable cash advantage over Republican Jill Vogel, a state senator from Fauquier County. Fairfax had $568,304 on hand after raising $608,846 in September. Vogel had $168,493 after raising $286,785 for the month. Attorney General Mark Herring, a Democrat who is seeking re-election, also had a wide cash lead over Republican challenger John Adams, with $2.5 million on hand compared with $250,000 for Adams. Adams is having to rely heavily on money from the Republican Attorney Generals Association, taking $900,000 from the group in September, more than half of his $1.6 million total for the month. RICHMOND Gov. Terry McAuliffes administration has not yet fulfilled a series of information requests from the lawyer the city of Charlottesville hired to review the violent white nationalist rally in August and how public officials planned for the danger that came with it. Tim Heaphy, a former federal prosecutor hired to lead Charlottesvilles review, said in early September that he had requested information from state agencies and asked to interview state officials as he examines the coordinated response to the rally. As of last week, Heaphy said he had not been granted access to the records he was seeking. We have not yet received replies to the [Freedom of Information Act] requests weve submitted or the separate requests for information Ive sent to various state agencies, Heaphy said in an Oct. 9 email to the Richmond Times-Dispatch. I continue to believe that information sharing is in the commonwealths interest, as well as that of our clients in Charlottesville. In early September, Heaphy said he wanted to review the assistance Charlottesville received from the Virginia National Guard, the Department of Emergency Management and the state police. Assessing the city-state coordination in the lead-up to the rally, Heaphy said at the time, will be an important part of the citys review. McAuliffe spokesman Brian Coy said Monday that the state has been in ongoing discussions with Heaphy, but is prioritizing its own review, led by outside consultants with an estimated price tag of almost $300,000, ahead of the review spearheaded by the city. Charlottesville is paying Heaphys firm $545 an hour with an initial fee cap of $100,000. Coy added that some of the records Heaphy wants are exempt from disclosure as protected law enforcement records or records connected to pending litigation. The McAuliffe administrations resistance to Heaphy a white-collar criminal defense lawyer with Hunton & Williams is perhaps the most significant sign of what some observers see as a puzzling air of secrecy surrounding the states efforts to review the rally. Rally attendees on both sides have blasted the law enforcement response, accusing police of standing by and allowing melees to develop in the streets surrounding the downtown park where white nationalist groups intended to rally to defend a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee. Because the McAuliffe administration does not consider the post-Charlottesville task force on civil unrest a public body, the meetings havent been announced on official state calendars. Before the task force started its work, its members almost all of whom are government officials were asked to sign a confidentiality agreement saying they understood that the disclosure of certain information could cause irreparable harm to the governors office. If improper disclosures were to occur, the statement reads, the governors office may seek legal remedies. Coy said the after-action report the task force will produce will be released to the public, but he said the task force was not created for a public airing of the events in Charlottesville. It is for experts to advise the governor on actions that he should take to keep the public safe, Coy said. State Del. Todd Gilbert, a Shenandoah County Republican in line to become the next majority leader of the House of Delegates, said the House GOP welcomed the task force and asked that it be as transparent as possible, but is quickly losing confidence in it. Gilbert said the task force has initially focused too much on the possibility of restricting guns at future rallies, and not enough on getting to the bottom of the breakdown in public order that led to this tragic outcome. Heather Heyer, a 32-year-old counterprotester, died when a car rammed into a crowd at the event. Two state police pilots monitoring the event were also killed when their helicopter crashed. The task force is scheduled to have two more meetings before finishing its work next month. Last month, the McAuliffe administration denied a FOIA request filed by the Richmond Times-Dispatch seeking records showing how public safety officials prepared for the rally at the state level. Pointing to a pending lawsuit that raises questions of legal liability and the sensitive nature of police tactics, the governors office said it was keeping the records confidential under the broadly defined working papers exemption and the executive privilege doctrine. The state has hired The Olson Group, an Alexandria-based security consulting firm, to lead its review in conjunction with the International Association of Chiefs of Police. The contract allows up to $299,511 in billable hours, with top Olson Group employees charging at a rate of $320 per hour. Its not yet clear if a separate after-action report being prepared by the state police will be released. Though officials have vowed to fully examine what happened in Charlottesville, the public work of the task force so far has focused largely on how the permitting process for political rallies could be tightened without curtailing free speech. The ACLU of Virginia, which has been feuding publicly with McAuliffe after its decision to go to court to help defend the free speech rights of the white nationalist rally organizers, criticized the perceived lack of transparency in a recent letter requesting copies of an emergency regulation the task force has developed that sets new ground rules for rallies at the state-owned Lee statue on Richmonds Monument Avenue. In an interview, ACLU spokesman Bill Farrar said it was kind of ridiculous to think that only people already in government not advocacy groups or the public should be at the table to discuss post-Charlottesville policy issues. This is a highly public and highly contentious issue that a lot of people have opinions on, said Farrar, who on Monday was still waiting for a response to his request to see the draft regulation. We shouldnt have to beg for these things or demand them. In an executive order, McAuliffe suspended permitted political rallies at the Lee statue until the task force could craft new rules. Once its in place, the emergency regulation will be subject to a public comment period. Though the organizers of the white nationalist rally and the activists who turned out to protest it seem to agree that police did little to intervene as clashes broke out, the two sides have put forward two opposing theories. White nationalists have pushed the theory that the government took a hands-off approach as a pretense to declare the event a riot and shut down unpopular speech. Anti-racism activists, who are often sharply critical of police, have accused law enforcement of being unwilling to protect them against a white nationalist invasion. McAuliffes office announced the membership of the Task Force on Public Safety Preparedness and Response to Civil Unrest just two hours before the groups first meeting on Sept. 12. The second meeting on Oct. 3 wasnt announced at all. A reporter from the Richmond Times-Dispatch was allowed to sit in on both meetings, which the McAuliffe administration said wasnt required because state open meeting laws, including a requirement to announce meetings three days in advance, dont apply to advisory task forces created by the governor. Its more analogous to one of our Cabinet meetings than it is to a formal, open public body, Coy said. Meghan Rhyne, the executive director of the Virginia Coalition for Open Government, said the states transparency law makes a distinction between advisory bodies created by another public body, such as a city council or the General Assembly, and panels created by an executive such as a mayor or a governor. The latter, she said, are not covered in the legal definition of public body. AN ARSONIST deliberately set fire to bins in a storage area outside a building. A fire crew was called at 7.15pm on Monday to deal with the incident on Wingfield Road, Wingfield. They spent 45 minutes at the scene and used a hose reel on the flames. (miningweekly.com) - Three obscure kimberlites in the Free State, near the origin of the South African diamond rush of the 1800s, have piqued the interest of diamond exploration and project development company Botswana Diamonds. Kimberlites are formed when volcanoes become extinct, with the potential of diamonds forming in the igneous rock as molten magma cools. During a keynote presentation at mining networking platfrom Africa Mining Network, in the end of August, Botswana Diamonds MD James Campbell revealed the companys interest in the Kimberley, Jagersfontein and Koffiefontein mining areas. On the sidelines of the event, Campbell spoke to Mining Weekly Online with great enthusiasm about the Kimberley, Jagersfontein and Koffiefontein discoveries, pointing out that they are unconventional forms of discovery. Many of the kimberlite discoveries made by Botswana Diamonds in this area did not occur through geophysical or geochemical analysis), but rather through the Afrikaner Research Library, in Kimberley. OmniTRAX The government of Canada is giving OmniTRAX 30 days to repair and restore service on the Hudson Bay Railway to Churchill, Manitoba, or risk a lawsuit for breach of contract. Official statements from Canada Minister of Natural Resources Jim Carr and Merv Tweed, president of OminTRAX Canada, each blamed actions of the other for the delayed rail repairs. The line between Amery and Churchill has been inoperable since May 23 due to a 200-year flood event that requires between CA$20 million (US$16.18 million) and CA$60 million (US$48.55 million) in repairs. In September, the government of Canada formally demanded that the Hudson Bay Railway Company, which is owned by OmniTRAX, honor a 2008 agreement and repair the tracks. Since the rail service disruption in late May 2017, the government of Canada has been working towards the restoration of the rail line. Despite these efforts, OmniTRAX Inc., the parent company of the owner and operator responsible for restoring service to the affected communities, has not met its obligations. As such, today, Transport Canada sent OmniTRAX Inc. a notice of default of its agreement, demanding that it complete all railway repairs and resume rail service within 30 days. Failing this, Transport Canada will instruct Justice Canada to file a lawsuit for breach of contract, said Minister Carr. In response, OmniTRAX issued a statement saying the action is an indication that the government of Canada has no intention of solving the situation. Culminating in the threat of legal action from Transport Canada, it has become clear to us that the federal government has no intention of constructively solving this problem for Churchill. It appears from their collective indecisiveness, dysfunction and lack of leadership on this critical issue that both Canada and the province of Manitoba are content to leave Churchill as a remote, fly-in community for the first time in over 100 years, said Tweed. Tweed cited a neglectful approach to Churchill and a continued reduction in federal financial support that has resulted in the collapse of commercial activity along the line to the point of non-viability. It is our view that, as a result of the federal governments actions (or inactions) recently and over the past ten years, the HBR is not commercially viable and should be regarded as a public utility. We recognize this position has frustrated many, but it has become the inconvenient truth for Churchill, said Tweed. He continued, We do, however, believe a solution is achievable, as do many of the local stakeholders. In early August, we entered into an agreement with Grand Chief Dumas and a new coalition of First Nations buyers. This coalition has the capability to operate the line and ensure it can offer a sustainable link to Churchill and points north. This agreement now hinges on the federal government and its willingness to provide the requisite approvals and financial support. Minister Carr also cited potential buyers of the line, saying, I am encouraged by the significant breakthrough towards an agreement between Missinippi Rail and One North to create a unified group as a potential buyer. I am optimistic that the partnership can develop a viable, sustainable business plan towards owning and operating the line. Their collective interest in regional ownership and focus on long-term sustainable operations represents an important step towards ensuring viable transportation in the years to come. Minister Carr said Canadas appointed Chief Negotiator Wayne Wouters would continue to facilitate discussions in the next few weeks between all parties, including with the Missinippi Rail and One North partnership. Allergan Inc. (AGN) sold off sharply Monday afternoon, after the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas ruled that four asserted patents covering RESTASIS 0.05% are invalid. Allergan ended the day with a loss of 7.11 at $198.41 with volume at a 7-month high. The stock dropped below a 3-week range and set over a 9-month low. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Crude oil futures continued to rise Tuesday morning, ahead of U.S. inventories data over the next few sessions. The American Petroleum Institute is out with its industry survey this afternoon, while the Energy Information Administration reports the government's figures Wednesday morning. WTI light sweet crude oil was up 10 cents at $52.01 a barrel, having touched the highest since late September. Prices have risen this week amid turmoil in the Middle East. The Iraqi government began a military assault on the independence efforts of the nation's Kurdish minority, disrupting supplies from some key oil fields. Meanwhile, an IEA official says OPEC compliance with its supply quota deal was up slightly to 86%. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis Aides to former President Barack Obama have launched harsh attacks on President Donald Trump after the president claimed that his predecessor did not call the families of fallen U.S. service members. Trump suggested during a press conference with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ken., on Monday that he has does more than previous presidents to reach out to the families of members of the military that were killed in action. "The traditional way -- if you look at President Obama and other Presidents, most of them didn't make calls, a lot of them didn't make calls," Trump said. "I like to call when it's appropriate, when I think I'm able to do it," he added. "They have made the ultimate sacrifice." Obama's deputy chief of staff of operations Alyssa Mastromonaco struck back at Trump in a post on Twitter, accusing the president of lying. "That's a f---ing lie. to say president obama (or past presidents) didn't call the family members of soldiers KIA - he's a deranged animal," Mastromonaco tweeted. Ben Rhodes, Obama's deputy national security adviser, also accused Trump of lying and pointed to his attack on a "Gold Star family" that had been critical of him. "This is an outrageous and disrespectful lie even by Trump standards. Also: Obama never attacked a Gold Star family," Rhodes tweeted. Mastromonaco and Rhodes both retweeted a post from former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Martin Dempsey claiming Obama and former President George W. Bush both cared deeply about the families of the fallen. "POTUS 43 & 44 and first ladies cared deeply, worked tirelessly for the serving, the fallen, and their families. Not . Sacred Trust," Dempsey said. Trump clarified later in the press conference that he did not know if Obama called the families but claimed he was told the former president did not call often. "President Obama I think probably did sometimes, and maybe sometimes he didn't. I don't know," Trump said. "That's what I was told. All I can do is ask my generals." Trump reiterated in an interview with Fox News Radio on Tuesday that he does not know Obama's policy but suggested reporters ask White House Chief of Staff John Kelly if he received a call. An administration official told Fox News that Obama did not call Kelly, whose son Robert died in Afghanistan in 2010. (Photo: Gage Skidmore) For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Political News The Brewer's Association (BA), the Colorado-based craft brewers trade association, has launched a crowd-funding to raise $213 billion to takeover beer behemoth Anheuser-Busch InBev. The campaign called "Take Craft Back" aims to dissuade Anheuser-Busch InBev from wrongly promoting craft beers that they have acquired. BA also intends to "to promote and protect America's small and independent craft brewers" through the campaign. Anheuser-Busch InBev has acquired 10 craft brewers in the U.S. since 2011 in an attempt to tap into craft brewing beer market, which is the fastest-growing segment in the industry. "America's independent craft breweries turned the beer industry upside down. That's why Anheuser-Busch InBev and its Big Beer cronies are buying us up left and right. Taking our independenceand your freedom of choiceaway. But we won't be muscled out. We're launching the largest crowdfunding effort in history to turn the beer industry upside down again!" says the website of the campaign Take Craft Back. "We can take a joke!" AB InBev U.S. communications VP Gemma Hart said in a statement about the Brewers Association campaign. "While the fake money for this campaign 'piles' up, we will keep focusing our donations on giving back to communities across our country." For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Sixty-nine seafarers from Samoa are heading overseas to make money for their families as they look to advance their careers. A special ceremony was held yesterday at T.A.T.T.E Building to bid the men farewell. They have secured jobs on M.S.C. Cruise and Cargo ships. Fifty-six will be working on the M.S.C. Cruise and the other thirteen will be working on cargo ships. Acting Prime Minister Papalii Niko Lee Hang warned them to stay away from trouble. The most important thing that you have to know is to make sure you will not get into trouble and please stay away from alcohol, he said. Papalii told them to always remember their families, churches, villages especially their parents. You need to stay away from places that involve a lot of alcohol. Keep in mind that youre carrying the name of your parents, your country and family. Remember that the reason behind this (is) to be a blessing for each and every one of your family. In conclusion, he acknowledged the support of families and friends of the seafarers. To the parents and families of each and every one of these boys here thank you for your prayers, your love and support. Remember to keep our sons in your prayers as they depart for work and ensure that their families are blessed and have a better life. Faletoese Laloata spoke on behalf of sixty-nine seafarers to thank everyone for their support. We want to thank everyone especially the government as well as the Samoa Shipping Services for the opportunities given to us to work and be able to provide for our families, he said. Well make good of these opportunities, and with your prayers well be able to keep on going. To our parents and families for their never ending support...thank you very much. Please remember us in your prayers! The Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters (S.A.M.E.) have asked for government intervention to establish a bilateral free trade agreement with Japan. The request follows an alarming drop in Samoas exports to Japan from 6.5 percent in 2015 to 3.1percent this year. The request is made in a letter from S.A.M.Es President, Tautaituasivi Tagaloa Wilson III, to the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Peseta Noumea Simi. Dated 13 October, a copy of the letter obtained by the Samoa Observer, shows that S.A.M.E is concerned about the reduction of Samoas export to Japan. The Samoan Association of Manufacturers and Exporters (SAME) is the private sector industry body for manufacturers and exporters of Samoa, respectfully request your intervention in establishing Bilateral /Free Trade Agreement with Japan to stop the reduction of our export to that country, the letter reads. Earlier this year S.A.M.E has similarly requested a Bilateral /Free Trade Agreement with China for the same purposes. According to the President, S.A.M.E had launched the Samoa Export Plan 2016-2020 last year, which has been endorsed by the government and the private Sector. The Plan focuses on increasing exports for Samoa of domestic export commodities from an average of $36m p.a. to $100m by 2020. With the graduation of Samoa from its L.D.C status recently, Samoas exports to Japan have attracted a 19% tariff/duty, Tautaituasivi writes. Our Exporters (and our people) have suffered from the reduction in trade due to this tariff imposition by Japan. This request is for the government of Samoa to immediately establish Bilateral/ Free Trade Agreement between Samoa and Japan to stop the bleeding for our Samoas exports to Japan. S.A.M.E believes there is great potential for exports to Japan. The current and potential exports from Samoa to Japan include Nonu, Coconut; Cocoa; Ava; taro; fish; breadfruit; handicrafts and others. Japan and the Asian markets offer the greatest opportunity for increase growth of exports from Samoa. These commodities are key exports for Samoas Export Plan. In December 2015 Samoas exports to Japan represented 6.5%, as of August 2017 this is now down to 3.1%(C.B.S). S.A.M.E blames the current tariff on export products from Samoa to China. The current tariff rates payable on imported nonu; coconut and cocoa products into Japan is 19% -which has resulted in a reduction of our exports in Japan, which is a very competitive market. But President Tautaituasivi is optimistic. The proposed Bilateral/ Free Trade Agreement with Japan will reduce the increasing trade deficit between the two countries, increase exports, enhance the livelihood of at least 80per cent of the Samoan population, and develop our economic capacity. We look forward to favourable response. It was not possible to get a comment from the C.E.O of M.F.A.T yesterday. Copied on S.A.M.Es letter are the Acting Prime Minister, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour and the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. As Members of Parliament, whether they belong to the H.R.P.P. or the Opposition Party, we know they have a sacred responsibility to do what is right in the eyes of the people they serve. Not to mention God who sees everything. That means they must perform their tasks without fear, favour, corruption, collusion or abuse. In other words, they should desist from being greedy and insist on doing everything possible to help advance the lot of members of the public who placed them there in the first place. This is especially critical for a government that sings about transparency, accountability and good governance at every opportunity it gets. Now what about blatant acts of wrongdoing? Do they have a responsibility to address them? Do they have a duty to see that public officials who abuse their positions for wealth and personal gains at the expense of poor taxpayers are held accountable for the sake of truth and justice? We dont know about you but we believe they do. Did they not take an oath in the first place to do what is right and decent? Did they not swear by the Almighty to always insist on honesty? The fact is blatant acts of wrongdoing from the past, which have been identified and proven by one government investigation after another, continue to stare at us in the face with the idea that something needs to be done about them. Indeed, there is reason to believe that Parliament and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaois government have failed to do this. In saying that, we are thinking back to the letter from the former Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Papalii Niko Lee Hang, to Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, a few years ago. The letter was part of a file of documents in which documentary evidences were presented to Prime Minister Tuilaepa to prove that public servants had indeed colluded to defraud public funds at the Samoa Land Corporation (S.L.C.). Dated 24 January 2015, the letter followed Parliaments decision to pass the long-awaited government response to the report by the Officers of Parliament Committee (O.P.C.). To refresh our memories, the O.P.C. report in question contained a recommendation to take legal action against the public servants involved. In its response, however, Prime Minister Tuilaepa acknowledged the issues raised but assured that remedial actions have been taken by the government to improve its performance. With that, nothing further was said about the recommendation to take legal action. Now this upset Papalii at the time. He and a few others in Parliament had been very vocal against the idea of corrupt practises being allowed to fester within the government, at the expense of people who are suffering in silence. So instead of taking Tuilaepas word for it, Papalii wrote back to the Prime Minister. He pleaded that he takes another look at the documents the O.P.C. had provided. Before we go on, why are we talking about this today, you might ask? Well on page 3 of the newspaper you are reading today is the direct result of one of the issues raised by Papalii at the time. It is a multi-million-tala building that is falling apart which will require more taxpayers money to fix it. Now back at the time, Papalii raised the issue of collusion to defraud public funds. An act to defraud public funds was committed by the Minister, C.E.O. and the contractor whereby the contractor requested the release of the 10% Retention Fund using a Fake Insurance Policy as guarantee and approved by the Minister and C.E.O. knowing very well that the Insurance was fake as there were no premiums paid and reconfirmed by the insurance company that the said Policy was not valid for any claim, the letter reads. Then there were the variations to the S.L.C. headquarters at Tuanaimato. The Variations amounting to $2,419,977.12 required to complete S.L.Cs new headquarters at a cost of $5,219,977.12 more than doubled the original cost of $2,800,000.00 approved by Cabinet and the said variations were never referred to Cabinet for approval as per usual government policy, the letter continues. The committee believed that the Variations were too excessive and the completed work was found very unsatisfactory given that the up-graded elevator was never in operation despite been paid an additional cost of $310,000.00 on top of the original approved cost of $180,000.00. At the end of day, S.L.C. paid $490,000.00 for an expensive broken down elevator. There is a lot more that was contained in the letter but we will stop here for now. Now, some of you might say that these allegations are old and they should be left in the past. We disagree. Why? The consequences of these failed projects continue to surface despite the attempts to tuck them far, far away from members of the public. The irony is that the expenses and more costs will be shouldered by the silent submissive taxpayers while the officials responsible for this madness continue to enjoy their luxurious lifestyles. Who knows what they are talking about with Prime Minister Tuilaepa being sick in hospital? Ladies and gentlemen, were talking about millions by the way. Let us remind you again that out there in the Courts at Mulinuu, there are mothers, fathers, loved ones being jailed for stealing as little as $50. What about these millions? Who should be held accountable for them? Tell us what you think! Have a wonderful Wednesday Samoa, God bless! Dear Editor Re: H.R.P.P rift emerges Politicians are power hungry. This is a problem Faumuina has rightly highlighted. But who will lead after Tuilaepa is a very valid concern. Fiame is a very experienced politician well capable. Liuga is another experienced politician who gave up a promising UN job when begged by his government to return and help. Currently my pick will have to be Papalii Niko Lee Hang. He was sorely tested when he chaired the O.P.C committee that looked in to the Chief auditors report on corruption in government and he was not found wanting. He withstood against the P.M. and H.R.P.P. though he fully understands what happened to a previous Chief Auditor in similar conditions. He stuck by what the people elected him to do. He has been Minister for Finance and now M.W.T.I, where some serious civil racketeering has happened in the past. This will be a tough but very important choice, who Tuilaepas successor will be. There are other issues flying under the radar but very critical. The increasing number of Asians with BIG money setting up in Samoa and squeezing the life out of local ventures. Especially dangerous are the belief systems they live by. Another materializing threat is the recent refugee programmes. If you look closely at these refugees, they are mostly un-vetted, young belligerent males, do not integrate in to their host countries and set up their belief systems of worship etc that necessitate the defeat of every other belief systems. (I have sharia law and jihadi in mind) Theres big money involved in this refugee business and thats where power hungry politicians come into play. European countries and U.S.A are severely curtailing refugees intake so the refugees handlers are looking at other countries/means of getting their clients into these their preferred places. Samoa can give them food, clothes etc but to sell them our childrens God given heritage.... heres a strong humble warning to our politicians, remember the story of Esau selling his birthright? (Genesis 25:27-34). Especially the power Hungary politicians already secretively planning a replacement for the PM, as Faumuina Wayne has revealed. I.N.L "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" - said William Congreve. Thats what a man from Vaiusu who is fighting for his life at the Motootua Hospital found after his enraged wife poured hot water on him while he was sleeping. The man, whose name is withheld, sustained burns to a large part of his body. The incident was confirmed by Police Superintendent, Salaa Sale Salaa, in response to questions from the Samoa Observer. He declined to give details as to the extent of the mans injuries. However, the Samoa Observer understands from sources close to the family the man was in critical condition. He was initially admitted into the Intensive Care Unit because of the severity of the burns. The hot water was poured on his face and chest which spilled on to his stomach, said the family member. The incident occurred at Vaiusu. The father of three was later transferred to the Medical Unit for further observations. A criminal complaint has been filed by the man, and the woman has been taken by police for interrogation. Salaa declined to comment as to what criminal charges the Police intended to file into this matter. It is unclear as to what caused the alleged incident as Salaa also declined to give any further details noting the police investigations is in progress. Family members of the man are unhappy with the delay of actions by the Police into the matter. Deputy Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa, is in Fiji this week. She is leading Samoas Delegation at the 2017 Ministerial Dialogue, Pre-C.O.P. in Nadi. She is accompanied by Oceans and Climate Change Manager C.I. Pacific, Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson, A.C.E.O. International Relations, Francella Strickland, and Samoas lead climate negotiator and A.C.E.O, Anne Rasmussen. The pre-C.O.P 2017 is designed primarily as a series of closed sessions for political leaders and key advisers. The objective of the pre-C.O.P. is to allow the leaders of member parties to frankly exchange views of key political deliverables, rather than technical details, for the upcoming Conference of the Parties C.O.P.23 in Bonn, Germany. The two-day conference started yesterday. The C.O.P.23 Presidency the Fiji Governments held a Partnership Day for invited guests this is in advance of the Pre-C.O.P. The $4.2 million tala three-story headquarters of the Samoa Land Corporation is in no condition to be occupied because of the unhygienic status of the building. This is according to an official who took the liberty of snapping these photos. The photos show there is mildew on the walls and holes on the ceiling. In August 2017, Minister of Public Enterprises, Lautafi Fio Purcell, told the Samoa Observer that S.L.C. would return to occupy the building. This was after they failed to attract viable bidders to run the building as a commercial headquarters. When the Samoa Observer reached out to the Minister for a comment on the current condition of the building, questions were referred to the S.L.C. Chief Executive Officer, Ulugia Petelo Kavesi. Samoa Observer left several messages for the C.E.O. through his secretary who said to call him back on several occasions. The S.L.C. had been using the top floor of the Vaitele market. In August 2017, Lautafi told the Samoa Observer he believes it is likely that Coin Save may end up taking over the top floor as well. So its not possible to have any government offices here and thats why its better for them to move back (to Tuanaimato) and make good use of that building, he said. But that is unlikely to happen according to the photos. And if it does, the condition of the building will cost the government a lot more money to fix. The multi-million-tala building was built and opened when Faumuina Tiatia Liuga was the Minister of S.L.C. WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump on Tuesday will call the families of four soldiers killed this month in Niger, the White House says, as Trump again casts doubt on whether his predecessor appropriately consoled the families of military personnel who died in war. Trump suggested Tuesday that President Barack Obama did not call John Kelly, a former Marine general who is now White House chief of staff, when his son, Marine 2nd Lt. Robert Kelly, was killed in Afghanistan in 2010. "I think I've called every family of someone who's died," Trump told Fox News radio. "As far as other representatives, I don't know. You could ask General Kelly, did he get a call from Obama?" A White House official later said that Obama did not call Kelly but did not immediately respond to questions about whether the former president reached out in some other fashion. In fact, White House visitor records show Kelly attended a breakfast Obama hosted for Gold Star families six months after his son died. A person familiar with the breakfast speaking on condition of anonymity because the event was private said the Kelly family sat at Michelle Obama's table. Obama aides said it was difficult this many years later to determine if he had also called Kelly, and when. But former Obama spokesman Ned Price, reacted angrily to Trump's comments. "Kelly, a man of honor & decency, should stop this inane cruelty," Price tweeted. "He saw up-close just how & how much Obama cared for the fallen's families." Trump had said in a news conference Monday he had written letters to the families of four soldiers killed in the Niger ambush and planned to call them, crediting himself with taking extra steps in honoring the dead properly. "Most of them didn't make calls," he said of his predecessors. He said it's possible that Obama "did sometimes," but "other presidents did not call." The record is plain that presidents reached out to families of the dead and to the wounded, often with their presence as well as by letter and phone. The path to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and other military hospitals, as well as to the Dover, Delaware, Air Force Base where the remains of fallen soldiers are often brought, was a familiar one to Obama, George W. Bush and others. Bush, even at the height of two wars, "wrote all the families of the fallen," said Freddy Ford, spokesman for the former president. Ford said Bush also called or met "hundreds, if not thousands" of family members of the war dead. Judy Parker lost a son, Army Spc. William Evans, 22, in a roadside bomb in Iraq in 2005 and said the first time she saw her younger son cry over his brother's death was in Bush's arms. "He took my son who was just 21 and held him and let him cry," she said. Bush "said he didn't know what he would do if it was his child." The soldier was from Hallstead, Pennsylvania. Bush came to the Fort Indiantown Gap Army post in northeastern Pennsylvania shortly after her son's death, to meet her family and the families of the other guard members killed that month. Parker, who now lives in Chenango Forks, New York, said she voted for Trump and wishes he would quit tweeting "and get to work." Altogether some 6,900 Americans have been killed in overseas wars since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, the overwhelming majority under Bush and Obama. Since Trump took office in January, about two dozen U.S. service members have been killed. The White House said letters would go out and calls would be made to the families of the slain soldiers in Niger on Tuesday. The family of Staff Sgt. Dustin Wright, one of the soldiers, was told by an Army casualty assistance officer to expect a phone call from Trump by Tuesday evening, said Will Wright, the soldier's brother. "He asked if the family would like to be contacted and if we'd be available to speak with the president," Will Wright said from Lyons, Georgia, where funeral services for his brother were held Sunday. "My mother and father said yes." The soldier's family in rural southeast Georgia has received "immeasurable support from the administration" and the military since he was killed Oct. 4, Will Wright said. He added that it would be "a great honor" to hear from Trump personally. Trump addressed the matter when asked why he had not spoken about the four soldiers killed in Niger. They died when militants thought to be affiliated with the Islamic State group ambushed them while they were patrolling in unarmored trucks with Nigerien troops. "I actually wrote letters individually to the soldiers we're talking about, and they're going to be going out either today or tomorrow," he said, meaning he wrote to the families of the fallen soldiers. "If you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didn't make calls," Trump said. Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said later that Trump "wasn't criticizing predecessors, but stating a fact." She said that presidents didn't always call families of those killed in battle: "Sometimes they call, sometimes they send a letter, other times they have the opportunity to meet family members in person." Bush's commitment to writing to all military families of the dead and to reaching out by phone or meeting with many others came despite the enormity of the task. In the Iraq war alone, U.S. combat deaths were highest during his presidency, exceeding 800 each year from 2004 through 2007. Bush once said he felt the appropriate way to show his respect was to meet family members in private. Obama declared an end to combat operations in Iraq in August 2010 and the last U.S. troops were withdrawn in December 2011. As Obama wound down that war, he sent tens of thousands more troops into Afghanistan in 2009 and 2010, and the death count mounted. From a total of 155 Americans killed in Afghanistan in 2008, which was Bush's last full year in office, the number jumped to 311 in 2009 and peaked the next year at 498. In all, more than 1,700 died in Afghanistan on Obama's watch. Trump visited Dover early in his presidency, going in February with his daughter Ivanka for the return of the remains of a U.S. Navy SEAL killed during a raid in Yemen, William "Ryan" Owens. Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said Trump's comments about his predecessors weren't "particularly helpful." "No doubt in my mind that President Obama suffered when people died on his watch," he said. At the InterContinental Hotel construction site on the downtown waterfront, Hensel Phelps field engineer Andrew Coba, pulls out his tablet and fires up an app calledRaken to note progress on metal framing at the second level. He can dictate observations, take photos and videos and email his daily report back to the office in a matter of minutes. Advertisement Developed by a startup in Carlsbad, Raken can cut an hour or more off the tedious daily task of monitoring dozens of subcontractors and their crews. The old method of pen and paper was prone to slipshod recordkeeping that sometimes resulted in overlooked construction mistakes and litigation years later. Sometimes it can be a hassle with all thats going on, said Coba, whose responsibility includes working with subcontractors. They miss days and we have to chase them down (for the information). The 25-year-old took quickly to the software, having grown up on video games. But he said its been relatively easy to convince older construction crews that the new method was worth trying. He said Hensel Phelps tried out Raken at San Diego Community College District construction sites and others in Los Angeles and encouraged him to try to it out at the InterContinental. At least a quarter of the construction crews there now use it and, largely, have abandoned pen and paper. Other companies use different software tools at construction sites but the Associated General Contractors of Americas California chapter named Raken the top daily reporting software and one of the top five mobile apps for construction a year after it debuted in 2014. Since then, Raken has been adopted by 2,400 customers with more than 10,000 users in 13 countries. Some of the most high-profile projects here and elsewhere have been documented using Raken. Besides the InterContinental and college district, the software was used at the Pendry Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter and by various defense contractors, the company said. Elsewhere its been employed at the $1.7 billion Mercedes-Benz Stadium that opened in August in Atlanta, the $1.3 billion Transbay Transit Center under construction in San Francisco and $1.1 billion Salesforce Tower, also under way in San Francisco. The app is the product of a company founded by Kyle Slager, 36, the son of a Columbus, Ohio, home builder who majored in economics at Brown University. He worked on Wall Street before moving to Rancho Santa Fe-based Brandes Investment Partners firm. I had an itch after doing that for a few years to create something, he said. He interviewed scores of construction companies and concluded that they badly needed some technical upgrades in the daily chore of monitoring subcontractors. What I didnt know at the time was that construction companies can be sued up to 10 years after a project is completed, he said. A plumbing leak on the 14th floor can cause $500,000 in damage (costs) to a general contractor and they go back and forth with the plumbing contractor they hired. Whos to blame often comes down to who has the best records. And if theyre incomplete, somebody has to pay up. Raken makes it simple and seamless to keep impeccable notes and photographic evidence that can be retrieved as needed. The software also helps smooth interruptions in the construction schedule due to weather that app automatically includes weather condition reports or delays in construction material deliveries. Its catching small problems before they become really big, big problems, Slager said. The name is taken from rakentaa, Finnish for to build, and reflects Slagers admiration for Finnish design. From an initial staff of four, Raken has grown to more than 40 employees and that is expected to double in the next year. They are housed at the Make project, the former floral mart, in Carlsbad. The location was chosen to convenience the mostly North County staff. Its onsite amenities, like a gym, surfboard racks, onsite food service and mix of tech-savvy companies like GoPro, also suit the millennial-oriented Raken staff makeup. It also suited the commuting needs for Rakens chief product and technology officer, Sergey Sundukovskiy, 41. His backstory is as interesting as Slagers. He was born in Ukraine, moved to San Diego to attend UC San Diego in 1994 for a B.A. in computer science. Subsequently, he earned, a masters degree in computer science at the University of Liverpool, a Ph.D. in business at online Capella University and another masters in science and big data at Harvard. He developed point-of-sale software for checkout registers and sold it to Capital One in 2014. Now living in southern Orange County, he was introduced to Slager by a mutual friend as someone who could help propel Rakens growth. When I looked at Raken, the company immediately drew my attention, he said. I started advising Kyle and working together and decided to join as a late-stage cofounder. Users pay $12-30 per license per month or an annual subscription at a 20 percent discount. They can tap a nearly 24/7 customer help line and make suggestions for upgrades and new services. One upgrade that was soon abandoned was the ability to upload 80MB files. Users discovered it took too long to access such files, especially when WiFi and cellular service is spotty at construction sites. We pulled back to the chagrin of some customers, Sundukovskiy said. Although Raken might have some application to other industries, from event planning and movies to natural disasters and oil and gas drilling, Slager and Sundukovskiy said they are sticking with construction for now. We still have a myopic focus to be able to provide the best app for its purpose, Slager said. The two founders said the company is generally running in the black but not consistently profitable since extra funds are poured back into hiring new staff to handle growth demands. The company has raised $3.25 million in venture capital funding and is preparing to launch a growth round that could range from $5 million to $20 million. We plan to do that in the near future and accelerate growth and continue to bring in great talent that is San Diego based, Slager said. Business roger.showley@sduniontribune.com; (619) 293-1286; Twitter: @rogershowley A former information technology director for Fallbrook schools received a court award of almost $1.2 million this month, concluding a wrongful termination case filed five years ago. The employee, Elaine Allyn, sued the district after she was fired in May 2012, claiming officials had retaliated against her for initially refusing to delete e-mails archived on a school server. Allyn, a 19-year veteran IT director with Fallbrook Union Elementary School District, said officials ordered her to delete the e-mails, which she believed contained information about possible misappropriation of funds, said Susan Curran, of Curran & Curran Law, the Encinitas legal firm which represented her in the case. Advertisement In her lawsuit, Allyn said she was ordered to dismantle the districts email archive system permanently destroying any deleted emails that were more than three months old even after she raised concerns that doing so would be counter to district policy and state and federal laws. It was a whistleblower case, Curran said. When she was asked to take down the archive server storing district e-mails, she declined to do so. There was a subsequent investigation against her, and the district fired her. After a 15-day trial in 2015, the panel unanimously awarded Allyn $1,046,000 for lost income and $148,000 in damages for emotional distress, for a total award of $1,194,000, Curran said. The district appealed the decision, but the 4th appellate district upheld the trial courts decision, she said. The district also petitioned the California Supreme Court to consider the case, but the court declined. On Oct. 6, the district paid the award, along with interest. Fallbrook Superintendent Candace Singh and Associate Superintendent for business services, Ray Proctor, could not be reached for comment Monday. Curran said the decision affirms labor and whistleblower protections. The message this case sends out to school districts and other governmental employers is that employers are not allowed to discriminate, retaliate against or terminate employees, particularly when those employees follow the law, try to do the right thing and who refuse to assist with illegal misconduct, Curran said. deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan Short-term vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods will be limited to no more than 28 days a year for a minimum of seven days at a time under a compromise the Del Mar City Council approved this week. The decision ended three years of studies and sometimes heated community discussions in the small, wealthy coastal community where summer rentals have long been a part of the economy and the community. We are trying to do something here that has a little bit for everyone, Councilwoman Ellie Haviland said before voting for the proposal Monday. If there were a way to make everybody happy, this would have been solved long ago. Advertisement In coastal and resort communities throughout the state, the growth of online booking services such as Airbnb and VRBO have made it much easier for homeowners to rent all or part of their homes to vacationers. That growth has pushed short-term rentals into many neighborhoods for the first time, creating conflict with long-time residents who value their tranquility and security. Our residential neighborhoods must be regarded as sacrosanct and not for overnight, short-term visitors, resident Tom McGreal told the City Council. Many speakers at the meeting said they would prefer no short-term rentals or at least greater restrictions, but they would support the compromise as a way to settle an issue that has divided the community. Others said they would prefer no restrictions. Income from short-term rentals make it possible for some owners to keep their expensive homes, residents said, and local restaurants and shops depend on short-term visitors as patrons. This isnt a compromise, said Kimberly Jackson, a Del Mar resident who manages vacation rentals. This is called steam-rolling. Attorney Cory Briggs, representing a nonprofit group of property owners called the Del Mar Alliance for the Preservation of Beach Access and Village, said the group intends to sue the city over the restrictions. Well off and white, thats what I hear tonight, Briggs told the council. What you are really trying to do is protect Del Mar from people who dont look like you, who are less well off When you get to the Coastal Commission, you are going to have a real fight on your hands if you dont change your proposal. However, council members responded that other cities have successfully set rules for short-term rentals, and that the California Coastal Commission has still not established standard rules for them, leaving that to local jurisdictions. Carlsbad approved an ordinance in 2015 that limits short-term rentals to properties within its coastal zone, nearly all of which is west of El Camino Real. Encinitas passed a short-term rentals ordinance in 2006. Solana Beach set its rules in 2003. I feel like we are on solid ground, said Councilman Dwight Worden. He agreed with other speakers that the city was willing to defend its position in court, if necessary. There are not a lot of issues worth dying on the fence for ... but in Del Mar protecting our neighborhoods is one, Worden said. Mayor Terry Sinnott cast the only vote against the proposed compromise. Ive heard a lot of input from a lot of folks that this is not the right way to go, Sinnott said. Im willing to support regulation, but were going at it in a too harsh way. The proposed restrictions will not take effect until they are approved by the Coastal Commission, which oversees all coastal development in the state and protects public access to the shoreline. If approved, the changes would become part of Del Mars Local Coastal Program, which is the general guide for local development. Short-term rentals in commercial zones would not be affected by the proposal. In the meantime, Del Mar property owners remain prohibited from opening new short-term rentals under a moratorium the City Council approved in April 2016. Any rentals operating prior to that were allowed to continue. Also approved as part of the proposed compromise was a forbearance policy to allow property owners who have depended on short-term rentals for a long time or a large part of the year to gradually adjust to the new rules. The policy will allow a soft landing for owners who rely on short-term rentals, Worden said. philip.diehl@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @phildiehl Its been easier to buy fresh fruit and vegetables in some National City neighborhoods lately thanks to a new nonprofit created by San Diego State University business students who hope to bring fresh produce to food deserts. My customers said, Wow, you carry fruits and vegetables now? said Roser Attig, whose family has owned 110 LIquor on National City Boulevard for 43 years. I say, Yes, we do now, and if you need something special, Ill try to have it for you within a week. Attig gets a small order of produce each week from BrightSide Produce Distribution, the nonprofit business started by SDSU students in professor Iana Castros Marketing and Sales for Social Impact class, which is offered once a year. Advertisement Before BrightSide was launched in Spring of 2016, Attig had given up on offering produce to his customers. Large distributors wouldnt deal with small markets like 110 Liquor because their orders werent large enough to make deliveries cost-effective. BrightSide solved the problem by uniting 110 Liquor and other stores into a buyers club, which pooled all the shops orders into one that was large enough to work with a large distributor. Eight stores have signed up so far, and students make deliveries each Friday. Besides the store deliveries, BrightSide also offers a subscription service to students, staff members and faculty at SDSU. Customers choose from four different sizes of produce bags, which they pick up at the campus farmers market on Thursday. The subscription service is slightly higher than the store-delivery prices, which helps BrightSide offset its costs and sell produce to shops at the same price they would have paid if they had dealt with a larger distributor. Also of last week, 35 customers at SDSU had subscribed to the service. While the project helps students learn about business and marketing, it also is addressing the real-world problem of food deserts, or neighborhoods that have little access to nutritious food. Food deserts commonly exists in lower-income neighborhoods that may have only fast-food restaurants, liquor stores and small markets. Residents also may rely on public transportation, making it even harder to get to stores that sell fresh food. SDSU student Itzel Arrieta, 22, grew up in National City and began noticing that some of her friends never had fresh produce in their homes when she was in middle school. A food and nutrition major, Arrieta isnt in Castros class, but she wanted to be a part of the project after she learned about it. I got really interested because it was in National City, where I live, and I thought it would be a great opportunity to give back to my community she said. It felt like it really hit home. After the concept was launched last year, Arrieta volunteered over the summer to sign up National City markets as clients. She was joined by fellow volunteer Rafael Castro, professor Iana Castros father, who is retired from a career in retail. Its an issue thats been around forever, Rafael Castro said about food deserts and the challenges faced by small markets in dealing with distributors. Its all over the country. Rafael Castro and Arrieta were familiar with National City and soon found markets eager to sign up. Student Lucas Thoresen, a marketing major, said the business plan is to add a new store each month. He recently approached five markets with the proposal, and two said yes immediately. Another two said they would think about it, and the fifth store was closed. The original BrightSide Produce Distribution was launched about three years ago at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. Iana Castro said SDSU is the first school to replicate it, and a few changes were made to make it a better fit for San Diego. At 110 Liquor, Attig said if had wanted produce in his store before, he had to buy much more than he needed, which always results in unbought food spoiling on the shelves. Smaller deliveries mean less spoilage, and BrightSide will reimburse stores for any food that does spoil before sold. To cut down on waste, BrightSide also takes food that did not sell in a week but still is good to National Citys George H. Waters Nutrition Center, which makes meals for seniors. Its worked out fantastic, Attig said. My customers appreciate it. They dont have to drive up to the super markets. Some customers also either walk or take public transportation, so having produce in the neighborhood store is especially appreciated by them, he said. Ghali Dikho, owner of Big B Market and Deli in National City, said his customers also appreciate the new produce section in his shop. Many are labors coming in for something quick, and they like being able to just buy a single piece of fruit, he said. The nonprofit distributor also helps some shops in neighborhoods that arent in food deserts but are at risk of losing customers who use electronic benefit transfer payments, more commonly known as EBTs. In January, the US Department of Agriculture will begin requiring stores that accept EBTs to carry at least three types of produce. That change was enough to convince La Casa Liquor owner Sal Nafsu to become a BrightSide client. EBT helps out a lot, he said about why he signed up with BrightSide. And anything to do with the kids to help them out, Im all for it. A large grocery store is just across the street from La Casa Liquor, so people in the neighborhood already had access to produce. Still, in his first week with BrightSide, Nafsu said his customers have been buying bananas, lemons and avocados from the BrightSide fruit stand. Thoresen, the marketing major, said the experience has been rewarding, especially when he makes a Friday delivery and finds that much of the produce he dropped off the week before has been sold. Its good to know were able to delivery this produce, and families around here who might not be able to make it to the supermarket have fresh produce, he said. Were able to help them out. It makes me feel good. Iana Castro said the students will approach 15 more businesses in National City. After that, she plans to expand the venture to other communities, and City Heights, Imperial Beach or Chula Vista may be next. Homeless Playlist On Now San Diego hepatitis outbreak continues to grow: 481 cases On Now Homeless entrenched in booming tent city along Santa Ana River On Now San Diego mayor agreed to homeless hub, then delayed, advocates say On Now Homeless outreach in San Diego On Now Video: Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #8 On Now In poverty himself, 'Water Man Dave,' is the fearless saint of San Diego's homeless 5:41 On Now Video: Homeless living in cars find safe havens 2:21 On Now Street Art: Portraits of San Diego's Homeless #7 On Now Pitching a tent plan for San Diego's homeless On Now Homeless efforts get $80M boost for various services gary.warth@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @GaryWarthUT 760-529-4939 A banner on campus at UC San Diego may have some people wondering if their school really was about to build a $20 million center devoted to the study of political prisoners. Its not, despite all the details on the banner near the Geisel Library. The school is, however, hosting an art exhibition about political prisoners and Guantanamo Bay at the California Institute for Telecommunications and Information Technology, known on campus as the Calit2. Artist Ian Paul, who collaborated with UC San Diego professor Ricardo Dominguez on the exhibit, said they were not trying to create a hoax with the banner and a press release that was issued last week. Advertisement The point isnt to trick people or deceive people, he said. Its to increase that one moment of wonder that hopefully leads to the question of whats possible. The sign and press release claimed a $20 million, 20,000-square-foot center called the Adnan Farhan Abd Al Latif Center for Critical Abolition Studies was scheduled to open in 2018. Along with the center, named after a Yemeni man who died at Guantanamo Bay detention camp in Cuba in 2012, the press release also announced that UC San Diego was introducing a minor in prison abolition and a PhD program called Post-national Justice and Aesthetics. One hint that it was all a ruse was in the announcement that the center was made possible through a transinstitutional collaboration between UC San Diego, Artists Without Borders and the Guantanamo Bay Museum of Art and History. The museum doesnt exist but was created by Paul and other artists in what he called speculative fiction. Its meant to connote that it speculates on a difference kind of presence, Paul said. The website for the fictional online museum does look authentic and even includes advice for travel accommodations, along with the claim that regular flights to the local airport have been arranged from several major airports around the world. In what probably is the biggest giveaway, the location of the museum is the former site of the Guantanamo Bay detention camp. The prison on the U.S. base in Cuba still is open, which Paul said is largely the point of the exhibit. Guantanamo Bay operates in this weird paradox, he said. Its believable that it has closed. (President Barack) Obama seems to be making many gestures that hes going to close it by the end of his term. But theres probably some ongoing fight that were not really aware of. Dominguez, the professor who made national news last year for assigning and joining students in nude performance art pieces, said he believes one reason the detention center is so hard to close is that it has existed for so long. The exhibit includes a prison uniform with a Primo Levi poem about being a detention camp written on it and a video of people singing karaoke to Eye of the Tiger, We are the Champions and others songs. Dominguez said that while the songs themselves are banal, they begin to take on a sinister element as theyre played over and over, as they reportedly were to cause distress in prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. In another exhibit, a large document that shows redacted lines is projected along with the pained sounds of a prisoner being tortured. The blacked-out document represents the useless information that might be extracted during torture, he explained. Much of the artwork at the exhibition, I think, allows us briefly to be in that sort of contained opaque and highly charged space, to be both guard and guarded, which I think is a very powerful space to find oneself, Dominguez said. Paul said he has created similar exhibits at Brown University, the University of Pennsylvania and UC Berkeley. He has another show planned in San Francisco at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts and another at the Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw, Poland. Describing the fictional press release and banner on campus as a way of creating a minor turbulence that explores the intersection between possible and impossible, Paul said he did not think the promotion for the exhibition created any serious confusion on campus. Doug Ramsey, director of communications for Calit2, said the gallerys website does have a disclaimer about the exhibits being fictional works of art. Prof. Dominguez does not feel the need to explain this in his own communications, and did not want the disclaimer placed anywhere within the exhibit itself, he wrote in an email. The exhibit is in the Calit2 gallery on the first floor of Atkinson Hall, UC San Diego, and runs through March 11. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. garywarth@sduniontribune.com More than 63 percent of cases in the countys hepatitis A crisis have been located within San Diego city limits, according to data released Monday by county public health officials. The data is broken down for the first time by ZIP code, which is the most specific geographic level that county officials have agreed to release. It only includes individuals who provided complete address information. Health officials have been hesitant to release geographic information more specific than ZIP code about those who have contracted hepatitis A, citing state and federal health privacy laws. Advertisement Data show 81 patients are located in the ZIP code 92101, which includes all of downtown, most of Balboa Park, the San Diego International Airport and the southern end of Bankers Hill. Its the largest number of raw cases in the county. The ZIP code 92020 in El Cajon ranks No. 2 with 29 cases, followed by 92113, which includes Barrio Logan, Logan Heights, Mountain View and Lincoln Park, with 28 cases. There have been hepatitis A cases in more than half of the 113 ZIP codes in San Diego County. Click or touch the map to see the number of cases in your ZIP code. U-T Data Watch placed the cases on this map. Darker colors indicate more cases. The county merged ZIP codes that have a population less than 5,000. The map reflects the patients reported ZIP code and may not necessarily reflect where exposure took place. If the map is not displaying on your device, click this link. As of last week, the San Diego outbreak has sickened at least 490 people, hospitalized more than 340 and killed 18. The spread of the liver infection was first identified by county health officials in March. Its been attributed to a lack of access to basic sanitation among San Diegos growing homeless population, which was the fourth largest in the country in 2016. The map does not include 81 patients were not able to give accurate or complete address information. Another two cases are not included because the patients lived outside the county and have since left the area. Officials said additional cases could be relocated to different ZIP codes if patients provide more details during follow up exams and interviews. Data Watch requested under the California Public Records Act the data used to create the map. County spokesman Michael Workman said the underlying data is confidential and in most cases would be largely inaccurate. Keep in mind this population is transient who knows where they actually contracted hepatitis A, Workman said in an email. The last known brick and mortar addresses of some are actually hospitals. Workman said the county is using location data to determine where cases are concentrated and where to send more hepatitis A vaccines, which provide lifelong immunity to the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of hepatitis A cases in the United States has decreased by 95 percent since 1996 when the vaccine was first recommended. Data show the countys health and human services agency has spent nearly $1.3 million on 31,000 vaccines. As of Oct. 7, more than 68,000 have been administered since March. There have been 932 vaccination field events, especially in areas with a higher concentration of the disease, since April. Data Watch Videos On Now Data Point: Media Mergers 2:58 On Now Jaywalking infractions in San Diego 1:24 On Now Video: Finding the recipe for the perfect burrito 2:09 On Now Video: Where marijuana is legal in the United States 0:53 On Now Report: Correctional system fails women 1:22 On Now San Diego students have larger classes On Now Hierarchy of cuisine prices On Now Pay phones: Is that still a thing? On Now 2016 border apprehensions On Now STD trends, San Diego County Contact Lauryn Schroeder via Twitter or Email. Diana Litzenberg doesnt know when shell go home. She doesnt know when shell walk. She doesnt know when the nightmares of blood and bullets will stop, or when shell step into a crowd again without her breath racing and breaking down in tears. I just want to be happy, says the Orange County woman, two weeks into treatment after losing feeling in her body as she dodged bullets and frantic concertgoers trampled her at the Route 91 Harvest festival. I dont know when that will happen. Doctors treated hundreds after the attack in Las Vegas. Fifty-eight died, the shooter killed himself, and tributes to the dead led newspaper front pages. Of the more than 500 injured who were hospitalized, all but 45 have gone home. TV crews have packed their bags, and police have passed the investigation on to the FBI. Advertisement Las Vegas and the nation have slowly regained normalcy. But among thousands of largely unknown Americans who witnessed the worst mass shooting in modern American history, lives have been turned upside down, and recovery for many is a distant reach. For Litzenberg, it will be at least weeks in the hospital hundreds of miles from home in Lake Forest. She faces months of counseling and physical therapy, tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills without insurance, and no guarantee that shell ever stand up again. A 52-year-old wife and mother, she had the weekend off from her property management job when she went to visit a friend in Palm Springs. They drove to Las Vegas to see their favorite country act, Big & Rich, a duo that performed before Jason Aldean. As bullets sprayed across the field that night, Litzenberg ran for cover under bleachers. She darted out to grab a young woman who was shot when a man rammed into Litzenbergs face, knocking her down as those trying to escape stomped over her. She awoke in the hospital the next day unable to move the left half her body. Her daughter and sister drove in from Southern California, and have been at her side since. Her Palm Springs friend, Jennifer Hutchinson, got to safety without injury, as did another friend who joined them, Sue Buckley. My mom was always smiling. Wed go to country concerts 10 times a year. Shed take rides on Newport Beach on her bike. She was always outside, walking, exercising. Shes always been so bubbly, says her 21-year-old daughter, Nicole Rapp. Now, shes a whole different person. Shes just sad and scared of everything. Litzenberg with her daughter, Nicole Rapp, on Oct. 12. (Jaweed Kaleem / Los Angeles Times ) The recovery has had its share of lows, even in times when the family has tried to cheer Litzenberg up. Last week, her daughter wheeled her to the lobby of Summerlin Hospital Medical Center to see the Stanley Cup, which was on display during a national tour. The crowd of fans gave Litzenberg flashbacks, and she started to cry. Another day, her sister Cathy Hopkins was tapping her fingers on a wall as she passed the time in the hospital room. Litzenberg yelled at her to stop; the rhythm reminded her of bullets. She used to love reality TV, and would binge on the Real Housewives series. Now she finds the plots too complicated, and her memory becomes blurry if she tries to keep up with them from her bed. She spends four hours in physical therapy each day, usually leaning on a walker or held by a waistband as she drags her left foot behind. But there have also been moments of progress and joy. After a few days in the hospital, Litzenberg could move her fingers again. She got to cuddle up with a therapy dog, a black Labradoodle named Sophie. It reminded her of Beijou, her Shih Tzu back home. Last weekend, she regained control of her left arm. She spent last Sunday watching her favorite team, the Green Bay Packers, beat the Dallas Cowboys. She tells her daughter to play the country music station on Pandora, and she still laughs and lights up she hears Big & Rich. A stranger from Washington state saw her GoFundMe page, and sent her balloons and a teddy bear. A nurse left the hospital one day and came back with a bundt cake. It tasted like the best cake she had ever had. Every day, Litzenberg goes over her story with her family. The music, beer and dancing in the sun, and the blood, pain and screams at night. Doctors say talking about it will help her mind recover. They say it keeps her from hiding the memories only to have them pop up unexpected as the years ago on. At the same time, she doesnt want any reminders. The city set up a center where victims could go pick up their belongings. Litzenberg had left her cowboy hat and boots behind that night along with silver Alex and Ani bracelets her daughter gave her as a birthday gift. She ordered the family to not retrieve the items. She tries to avoid the news. She knows a basic outline of the night. There was a man who shot from the Mandalay Bay. He killed people, he ruined lives, and nobody knows why he did it. But sometimes, when her sister and daughter arent there to stop her, she cant help tuning in for a few minutes before shutting the TV off. Theres so much. Everybodys got their different opinions and their different sayings and their different, you know, versions of it. Only the people who went through it and only the people who died know what really happened, she says. I know what happened. I dont need to go that way. I just need to look at myself. jaweed.kaleem@latimes.com Jaweed Kaleem is The Times national race and justice correspondent. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. ALSO Las Vegas survivors take aim at bump stock maker as lawsuits begin Las Vegas gunman targeted police responding to his shooting rampage, investigation now shows They were in love. He was planning to propose. How the Las Vegas shooting tore this couple apart More national headlines A pair of wildfires spread across open terrain at Camp Pendleton Monday, sending plumes of brown smoke over northern San Diego County but posing no threats to populated areas, authorities said. One blaze erupted Monday afternoon in a training area at the Marine Corps installation north of Oceanside, according to the Camp Pendleton Fire Department. The other involved remaining areas of combustion from a fire that burned over the weekend. The flames did not threaten any structures on the military base or in surrounding communities, officials said. Advertisement No details about the sizes of the burn areas or the causes of the fires were released Breaking News Email: david.hernandez@sduniontribune.com Phone: (619) 293-1876 Twitter: @D4VIDHernandez The ex-husband of a San Diego Army veteran reported missing in September and now presumed dead has been arrested on suspicion of murder, authorities said. Dalen Larry Ware, 39, was taken into custody at his home in Phoenix Thursday in connection with the presumed slaying of Julia Jacobson, 37. Her remains have not been found, but investigators believe she was killed in Ontario, Calif., where she was last seen, San Diego police said. In a post published Monday on a Facebook page dedicated to finding Jacobson, her family mourned her and thanked people for their incredible outpouring of love and support. Words cannot express the pain and anguish our family has endured since our beloved sister and daughter Julia Jacobson went missing, her family wrote. Even though Julias physical presence may be gone and taken from us far too soon, her capacity for love, inspirational spirit and laughter will live forever in the hearts and minds of all those that knew and loved her. Ontario police continue to look for the bodies of Jacobson and her dog, a Wheaten terrier named Boogie. Advertisement It is our hope we will find Julia and Boogie soon, but we need help and tips from the public because we do not know where she is, said Ontario Detective Melissa Ramirez on Tuesday. Anyone with information about the incident can Ontario police at (909) 986-6711 or WE-TIP anonymous line at (800) 78-CRIME. Jacobson worked for a 7-Eleven corporate office and was an Army veteran who served two tours of duty in Iraq, her friends said. She was seen at a 7-Eleven in San Diego about 6:30 a.m. on Sept. 2 and then for the last time around 8 p.m. the same day in Ontario, in San Bernardino County, police and family said. That night, about 9:30 p.m., a friend received a text message from Jacobsons cellphone saying she was in the Palm Springs area and planned to travel to Big Bear. Detectives believe Jacobson was murdered the next day, according to a felony complaint. Her SUV spotted in Ontario the day she was last seen was found abandoned five days later, on Sept. 7, on Monroe Avenue in North Park, not far from her home in Normal Heights, police said. The vehicle was unlocked, with the keys inside and the windows rolled down, according to posts on the Facebook page about her disappearance. Ontario police said forensic evidence in the white Chevrolet Equinox led detectives to believe she had been killed. Investigators declined to say what kind of evidence and did not disclose a motive. San Diego and Ontario police detectives presented their case to the San Bernardino County District Attorneys Office and on Oct. 11 obtained an arrest warrant for Ware, identified by police as Jacobsons ex-husband. The complaint charging Ware with murder was filed the same day. Police and FBI agents in Phoenix found Ware at home the next day, on Thursday, and arrested him as a fugitive from justice with an extensive history of violent crimes, according to court documents. He appeared in Phoenix Superior Court on Friday and told a judge he would not request a hearing before being extradited to San Bernardino County. Authorities in San Bernardino said they were not sure what day he would be brought there from Phoenix. Staff writer Pauline Repard contributed to this report Breaking News Email: david.hernandez@sduniontribune.com Phone: (619) 293-1876 Twitter: @D4VIDHernandez The deadline for action on bills passed by the California Legislature has come and gone, and Gov. Jerry Brown is once again playing his role as the voice of mature wisdom in Sacramento. Examples: -- He vetoed Assembly Bill 63, which would have extended some of the sweeping restrictions on California drivers under 18 years old to those who are 18, 19 or 20. With exceptions for school and work, they couldnt have driven from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. during their first year with a license. In his veto message, Brown wrote, Eighteen-year-olds are eligible to enlist in the military, vote in national, state and local elections, enter into contracts and buy their own car and shouldnt be treated like minors. -- He vetoed Senate Bill 149, which would have kept presidential candidates (wonder who?) off California ballots unless they released their taxes. In his veto message, he wrote that this would have set a dangerous precedent for potential partisan mischief, creating an ever-escalating set of different state requirements for presidential candidates. Advertisement -- He vetoed Senate Bill 649, which would have sharply streamlined the permitting process and limited fees for installing equipment such as small cell towers used by the cell phone industry. In his veto message, Brown acknowledged the importance of this innovative technology but said a more balanced solution made more sense than stripping local governments of their authority. In Browns veto messages, common themes are evident. He doesnt like bills that can be seen as posturing. He doesnt like bills that could have unforeseen complications. And he really, really doesnt like cluttering government code with new laws that address problems covered by existing laws. But the governor is also willing to try new approaches when warranted. Oversight of the University of California is a prime example. Lawmakers upset with a lack of transparency have repeatedly audited UC. But under President Janet Napolitano, UCs disdain for accountability has grown. Browns response was to sign Assembly Bill 562, which makes it a misdemeanor crime to interfere with a state audit requested by the Legislature or required by state law, and Assembly Bill 1655, which bans UC campuses from coordinating responses with the presidents office when the state auditor asks for information, among other provisions. And in what amounted to an acknowledgment of Californias inadequate water safety practices, Brown signed Assembly Bill 746, which requires school districts to do more to ensure there is no lead in school drinking water. Discovery of contaminated water in the San Ysidro school district led to the bill. In another example that a new direction was necessary, Brown signed Senate Bill 615 to prevent the dusty, deteriorating, shrinking Salton Sea from becoming an ecological disaster. The Salton Sea Restoration Act changes rules on what constitutes a dam, exempting certain structures, to aid in dust control and habitat restoration. This would help with a 10-year plan the state unveiled in March to stabilize Californias largest lake. In 1982, during his first stint as governor, Brown vetoed less than 2 percent of the bills that landed on his desk. Hes learned his lesson, having vetoed between 11 percent and 15 percent of those bills the past seven years. With a year left in his term, Brown deserves praise for still taking every bill so seriously, a trait his successor should emulate. Twitter: @sdutIdeas Facebook: San Diego Union-Tribune Ideas & Opinion Look, up in the sky. Its a bird! Its a plane! No, its a Chinese space lab hurtling toward the earth. Known as the Tiangong-1, the space station was launched by Chinas National Space Administration in 2011 but is now headed for an out-of-control landing somewhere on our globe. Seriously. China lost control of the 18,740 pound, 34-foot long space station the first built and launched by the country in 2016. Before that it was used for both manned and unmanned missions. The lab's re-entry is expected between now and April. But where? When? Its hard to say. In the case of most reentering objects, the uncertainty associated with predicting reentry location is extremely large and precludes an accurate location prediction until shortly before the reentry has occurred, says the U.S.-funded Aerospace Corporation. The odds are good that the station, or whatever pieces it breaks into on re-entry, will land far away from humanity, with less than one-third of earth being land, and a good portion of that being uninhabited. And there has never been a report of a person being injured by falling space debris either, reports the Orlando Sentinel. But, again, theres still no controlling it. You really cant steer these things, Jonathan McDowell, a renowned Harvard astrophysicist told The Guardian. Even a couple of days before it re-enters we probably wont know better than six or seven hours, plus or minus, when its going to come down. Not knowing when its going to come down translates as not knowing where its going to come down. Officials with Chinas space agency have alerted the United Nations, but they maintain the space station wont be its original size as it races toward Earth. "Based on our calculation and analysis, most parts of the space lab will burn up during falling," Wu Ping, deputy director of Chinas manned space engineering office said last year. So should you be worried at all about being hit with a speeding hunk of Tiangong-1? Aerospace Corporation believes it is highly unlikely that debris from this reentry will strike any person or significantly damage any property. However, it has created a full Q&A related to the Tiangong-1 here, which gives advice like do not touch any debris you may find on the ground nor inhale vapors it may emit. Ping said that China is closely monitoring Tiangong-1s decent and will release a forecast of its falling and report it internationally if need be. In the meantime, amateur satellite trackers and other star gazers have taken to watching its descent. News outlets are also pointing out when people can watch it go flying by, since its getting so close to earth. People hearing about the news on social media reacted with some concern. or made jokes about it, as the internet does in times like this. You can find out when to look for Tiangong-1 in your night sky at Space.coms Satellite Tracker Map. Email: abby.hamblin@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @abbyhamblin Military forces backed by a U.S.-led international coalition have claimed a major victory in the city of Raqqa, a locale once known as the de facto capital for the Islamic State in Northern Syria. On Tuesday, a spokesman for the coalition to defeat the Islamic State shared a photo of members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) celebrating on Twitter and confirmed that they now control 90 percent of the city. The announcement that major military operations in the city have ended follows a similar victory in Mosul, Iraq, another major stronghold, in July, leaving the Islamic State militants with ony a few other strongholds along the Iraqi Syrian border. Heres what you should know about whats going on in Raqqa. What is the significance of Raqqa? With a population of about 200,000, Raqqa sits on the banks of the Euphrates River in Syria. It was the first city to fall in the hands of Islamic State three years ago and was declared the de facto Syrian political capital of the caliphate the group seeks to establish. While holding Raqqa, Islamic State fighters destroyed the citys main mosque and converted churches into Islamic centers, The Associated Press reported. They also persecuted Christians and other minorities and carried out public beheadings there. Foreign fighters from around the world flocked to Raqqa to join the Islamic State while it controlled the city. Planning for some of the recent terror attacks in Europe, including a 2015 attack in Paris which killed 130 people, has been traced back to Raqqa, according to that AP report. When did the battle for Raqqa begin? The offensive began in June with the SDF and its Syrian Arab Coalition partners moving on the ground and the U.S.-led coalition providing support with airstrikes. Lt. Gen. Steve Townsend, commanding general of the coalition, predicted at the time that the fight for Raqqa (or Raqqah, as he also referred to it) would be long and difficult, but a successful offensive, paired with the coalition's victory in Mosul, would be a major achievement in the fight against the Islamic State. "It's hard to convince new recruits that Islamic State is a winning cause when they just lost their twin 'capitals' in both Iraq and Syria, Townsend said in June. The coalition described its part in the offensive as an advise and assist mission, providing equipment, training, intelligence and logistics support and battlefield advice. The Washington Post captured what it described as a daily reply of horrors" during the fight for Raqqa with a photo essay here. What was the impact of the fighting? Much of the city is in ruins. The New York Times reported that more than 1,000 civilians have been killed in American-led airstrikes and that 270,000 people have been displaced. Heres a photo of Raqqa taken by Reuters photographer Erik De Castro on Monday that shows how entire buildings have have been gutted by the combat. A view of destroyed buildings at the frontline in Raqqa, Syria October 16, 2017. (REUTERS/Erik De Castro) What might happen next? Col. Ryan S. Dillon, a spokesman for the U.S. military in Baghdad, said Tuesday there are still pockets of the city controlled by the Islamic State. He also said that that Islamic State fighters left improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordnance behind and that it could take years to remove them. As for political leadership, The New York Times reports that tension between Kurds and Arabs in the area could rise following the victory in Raqqa as the future government of Raqqa takes shape. According to The Washington Post, Islamic State fighters still have a steady presence in the southern Syrian province of Deir al-Zour, where the Syrian government and its Iranian-backed and Russian allies are waging a fight against the Islamic State. They also have minor footholds in other parts of the world, including Niger, where four U.S. soldiers were killed earlier this month in an ambush by 50 Islamic State affiliated fighters. "The International Coalition and our partner forces are steadily dismantling the physical caliphate of ISIS," Townsend said when the fighting began in June. "Once ISIS is defeated in both Mosul and Raqqah, there will still be a lot of hard fighting ahead, but this Coalition is strong and committed to the complete annihilation of ISIS in both Iraq and Syria." On Tuesday Kurdish and Arab fighters celebrated with makeshift parades in the streets, waving flags and making a point to claim Naim Square, where the Islamic State had carried out beheadings. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters ride atop of military vehicle as they celebrate victory in Raqqa, Syria, October 17, 2017. (REUTERS/Erik De Castro ) Fighters of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) march past destroyed buildings as they celebrate victory and liberation of Raqqa from the Islamic State militants, in Raqqa, Syria, October 17, 2017. (REUTERS/Erik De Castro) Email: abby.hamblin@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @abbyhamblin Rep. Thomas Marino , R-Pennsylvania, has withdrawn his nomination as President Donald Trump s drug czar, Trump tweeted Tuesday, two days after an investigation by The Washington Post and 60 Minutes detailed his role in passing a law that gutted the governments ability to stop the spread of opioids on Americas streets. Missing from Trumps tweet was any mention of Marinos role in limiting the Drug Enforcement Administrations efforts to stem the flow of copious shipments of opioids into corrupt hands, according to a stunning investigation that described Marino as the chief advocate of the law that hobbled the DEA. Trump later said on Fox News Radio that Marino told him he had to take a pass as to avoid being seen as having a conflict of interest with pharmaceutical companies, CBS News reported. "There was a couple of articles having to do with him and drug companies," Trump added. Marino pushed hard to pass a law the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act of 2016 that weakened the DEAs ability to stop the distribution of opioids from getting into the black market. Here are more details about Marino from the investigation by The Washington Post and 60 Minutes. So who is Rep. Tom Marino? Marino was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and has since served on a number of committees including those overseeing the judiciary, homeland security and foreign affairs. Marinos opposition to Obamacare is well aligned with Trumps. He has voted to repeal, defund and replace the Affordable Care Act, according to his website. Howd he rise to prominence? Marino was born and raised in Pennsylvania where he studied law and earned his degree from the Pennsylvania State University Dickinson School of Law in 1988. After that, he went on to serve as a district attorney for the states Lycoming County and then as U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Before running for Congress, Marino abruptly resigned as U.S. attorney in 2007 amid a justice department investigation related to allegations that he helped a businessman get a casino license in Pennsylvania, The Morning Call reported. The probe ended when Marino resigned. The extremely dangerous DEA? At a House Judiciary Committee hearing, Marino told then-U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder that the DEA was treating [pharmaceutical] companies like illicit narcotics cartels. This mind-set its extremely dangerous to legitimate business, Marino reportedly told Holder. Marinos campaign contributions Marinos bill eventually sailed through the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives, and was later signed by then-President Barack Obama on April 19, 2016. Pharmaceutical industry donors gave at least $1.5 million to 23 lawmakers who played a role in passing the bill, the investigation found. Marinos campaign received nearly $100,000 in contributions from a political action committee representing the pharmaceutical industry, the investigation also found. What happens to Marino now? The Post/60 Minutes investigation has prompted questions in Congress as to how lawmakers passed such a law that weakened the DEAs enforcement efforts, CBS News reported. Marino had not yet commented on the investigation published by the two news organizations, but Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, on Monday downplayed the laws impact on the DEAs enforcement powers and defended his role in passing the law. Marinos nomination would have needed approval from the Senate Judiciary Committee, but officials told CBS News that he had not yet submitted the required paperwork to undergo the process. No confirmation hearing date was ever scheduled. Marinos term in office ends in 2019. Have some thoughts to share? Join me in a conversation: Shoot me a private email with your thoughts or ideas on a different approach to this story. As always, you can also send us a tweet. Email: luis.gomez@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @RunGomez Read The Conversation on Flipboard. Two annual competitions are underway at Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3783: the Patriots Pen youth essay competition for school students in sixth through eighth grades and the audio/essay competition in the Voice of Democracy Scholarship competition for students in ninth through 12th grades. VFW enacted the Patriots Pen competition in 1995 to encourage young minds to examine Americas history, along with their own experiences in modern American society by composing a 300- to 400-word patriotic-themed essay. The theme for the 2017-2018 is Americas Gift to My Generation. For Voice of Democracy, students must write and record a three-to-five-minute essay on this years theme, American History: Our Hope for the Future. The deadline for both contests is Oct. 31, noted Commander Alexis Henshaw of VFW Post 3783 in Ramona. Students begin by competing at the local post level. Post winners advance to district competition with district winners advancing to the state competition. In both contests, awards are given at each level for first, second and third place. If you know a Ramona student who can benefit from this contest, please encourage participation, said Henshaw. For more information, contact Henshaw or Amber Ramirez, auxiliary chair at the post at 760-789-7888 or 2477 Kelly Ave. For contest details, visit vfw.org/community under Youth and Education and then Youth Scholarships. SALT LAKE CITY (AP) A federal appeals court has upheld Utahs ban on polygamy, dealing a legal blow to TVs Sister Wives in a ruling that sides with prosecutors who said they need the ban to go after polygamists like imprisoned leader Warren Jeffs. While some said Mondays decision could help in the prosecution of crimes like underage marriage and sexual assault, others worried it could send otherwise law-abiding plural families back into hiding and make such investigations harder. The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed a 2013 ruling that struck down key parts of Utahs law against bigamy, or holding multiple marriage licenses. U.S. District Judge Clark Waddoups had found the state violated polygamists right to privacy and religious freedom. Advertisement The three-judge panel ruled that Waddoups should not have considered a lawsuit from Kody Brown and his four wives because they were never charged with a crime and there was little chance they would be. The decision brings back a rule forbidding married people from living with a second purported spouse, making Utahs law stricter than those in every other state and creating a threat of arrest for plural families. Like most polygamous families in Utah, Brown is legally married to one wife and spiritually married to the others. State authorities have long said they dont go after polygamists who otherwise follow the law, and they reiterated that stance after the ruling. Officials wanted the clause kept on the books to help in criminal cases related to polygamy. We want them to come out of any shadows to report crimes, Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes said. Prosecutors pointed to Jeffs, the polygamous sect leader convicted of assaulting girls he considered wives. Authorities have recently cracked down on his sect on the Utah-Arizona border, charging leaders in a multimillion-dollar food stamp fraud scheme. A jury in Phoenix also found the towns denied nonbelievers basic services such as police protection. The Browns have never belonged to Jeffs group, and lumping in good, honest polygamist families with him isnt fair, said Brady Williams, who has five wives. Were only guilty of trying to love a different way than the norm, he said. They are marginalizing a minority class in the United States. Thats unconstitutional. The Browns will appeal the ruling, either asking the 10th Circuit to reconsider or taking the case to the U.S. Supreme Court, said their lawyer, Jonathan Turley. The underlying rights of religious freedom and free speech are certainly too great to abandon, Turley said in a statement. The family has said other laws exist to target crimes linked to plural marriages and that banning the practice can sow distrust of authority. They argue their show is evidence that polygamous marriages can be just as healthy and monogamous ones. Kristyn Decker, a former polygamous wife, disagrees. She says that people dont report problems amid pressure to avoid casting the practice in a bad light. We have all been told over and over again, We need to protect the principle of plural marriage at any cost, said Decker, who argued that the ban lets authorities get a foot in the door. The state said the appeals court made the right call. I dont think the Browns had a legitimate fear of prosecution, said Parker Douglas, who argued the states case. There are about 30,000 polygamists in Utah, according to court documents. They believe polygamy brings exaltation in heaven a legacy of the early Mormon church. The mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints abandoned the practice in 1890 and strictly prohibits it today. ___ Associated Press writer Hallie Golden contributed to this story. Montgomeryville, PA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/17/2017 -- LEM Products, Inc. has been ranked the 18th largest woman-owned business in the Philadelphia region by Philadelphia Business Journal. LEM is a leading manufacturer of industrial safety labels and identification products, fleet graphics, and custom branding decals for equipment used in a variety of industries. The company's goal is to keep workers safe and businesses compliant by adhering to Federal OSHA safety regulations. Owner, CEO, and Philadelphia native, Maureen O'Connor, is proud that LEM Products, Inc. is being acknowledged as a contributing force in providing employment and economic stability to Philadelphia, generating $720.3 million in revenue in 2016. The company's dedication to providing quick response times to customers and lending support to supply chain initiatives has helped them stand out from the competition. This year, LEM Products, Inc. celebrates 50 years of manufacturing in America. Last year, the company expanded their Corporate Headquarters to a new facility in Montgomeryville, PA, where they are making significant capital investments in new technologies that heighten their competitive position in the manufacturing marketplace. Maureen O'Connor is a Life Member of the Union League of Philadelphia, a DVIRC (Delaware Valley Industrial Resource Center) Board Member and has been an active participant of the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) Regional Partner Organization in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware since 1997. LEM Products, Inc. has been WBENC certified since 1999. To learn more information about LEM Products, Inc. and their manufacture of products such as safety tags and labels, visit their website at http://www.lemproductsinc.com. About LEM Products, Inc. LEM Products, Inc. is an industry leader in the manufacturer of identification products that protect people by identifying potential hazards, provide instructional and facility/site safety information. Precision manufacturing, a dedication to customer satisfaction and a commitment to achieving corporate targets for growth and social investment set LEM apart in the industry. LEM Products, Inc. is a WBENC certified company with the reputation as a leading safety identification supplier in North America and beyond. They are certified by the California Public Utilities Commission and the Pennsylvania Department of General Services. Business placed with LEM Products, Inc. qualifies for Federal and State Diversity Spend initiatives. For over 49 years, LEM Products, Inc. has been providing wire marking, pipe marking, safety signage, lockout tags and other products to utilities, corporations, and manufacturers to mark facilities and products for OSHA/ANSI compliance and safety. Maureen O'Connor, CEO, has received numerous awards for her leadership, her commitment to diversity in the workplace and community involvement. LEM has built a solid reputation, across industries as a dependable supplier of industrial products ranging from safety labels and safety signs to lockout tagout to custom tags and more. For more information, please visit http://www.lemproductsinc.com/. London, UK -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/17/2017 -- One of the fastest growing sectors around the globe is Islamic finance. This is the reason that in not only the Middle East but also many European Universities has started the program of Islamic finance degree. This will help them to meet the requirement of MBA Islamic finance professionals around the world. "As far as demand for Islamic financial qualification is concerned, it is not limited to any specific region. We are noticing a continuous increase in our MBA Islamic Finance students. And they are not limited to a specific region. We have hundreds of students enrolled from remote regions, such as Senegal, Madagascar, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, and Trinidad & Tubago", said Mr. Haris Ahmed, Director at Academy for International Modern Studies (AIMS UK). Apart from the Muslims, the Non-Muslims are also enrolling is this field to meet the increasing demand for the professionals. It has been predicted that by 2018 the assets of MBA Islamic finance will rise up to $3.4 trillion. So here we have the list of 7 countries that has the highest demand for the MBA Islamic finance experts. 1. Saudia Arabia They have the global asset sharing of 31.70% and this is the reason that the demand of Islamic finance degree is growing in this country. Many universities have started the degree as well as most of the professionals have already completed their studies and are ready for work. 2. Malaysia It has the major Shariah-compliant industry in the world. So in order to manage their 16.70% of the assets that requires the professionals of MBA Islamic finance. As these are the individuals that will help to grow the banking system. 3. United Kingdom The demand for MBA Islamic finance is also growing in Europe, as London is considered to be the hub of Islamic finance activities and qualifications. Many universities have started Islamic finance degree programs. Recent studies shows Islamic banking has become one of the four major specialists degrees in the UK. 4. UAE It has the global share of 14.60% and so the country deserves to have the professionals that will help them to manage the backing system according to the rules of Islam. They are hiring the experts because now the awareness has increased in the public. 5. Qatar The demand for the Islamic banks in growing in Qatar because the economic status of the country is developing. So the investors are looking for a decent way to invest and the best help can be provided by the Islamic finance degree professionals. 6. Bahrain The demand for the MBA Islamic finance professionals in Bahrain is 1.70% and the growing economy is looking for the sources to invest that has been provided by Islam. This is the reason that growth of Islamic banks is increasing in this region. 7. Pakistan It is the developing country that has shown a rapid growth. So being a true Islamic state the people are in search for the Islamic finance degree that will help them to invest 1.20% of their shares in the profitable and industry that fulfill the rules of Islam. Bottom line The strong economic growth of the Gulf region is the main reason for increased demand for Islamic finance. Most of the investors are looking for the products for investments that will help them gain the financial benefits, with their religious boundaries. Apart from that, most of the Muslims around the globe want to have Islamic finance services. For more information, please visit: http://www.aims.education/islamic-banking-and-finance-mba-masters-degree/. MEDIA CONTACT: Company: Academy for International Modern Studies (AIMS) Address: 21 Wenlock Road, London N1 7GU, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)20 8720 6985 [MANILA] A new, comprehensive study brings focus to the plight of millions of patients, especially in the developing world, who are condemned to live and die in pain for lack of access to palliative care. In a comprehensive report on palliative care and pain relief published 13 October in The Lancet, the study says that each year, some 26 million people, including over 2.5 million children, suffer pain which could have been addressed with off-patent, low-cost morphine. The report says that of the 298.50 tonnes of oral morphine distributed worldwide, only 10.8 tonnes (3.6 per cent) reach the low- and middle-income countries, creating a pain gap. Of the 172 countries studied, 25 had almost no morphine and about 100 countries are only able to meet the needs for standard pain relief of a quarter of their population. The question is how to strike a balance between dangerous drugs and access for palliative care purposes Manuel Dayrit Lukas Rudbruch, chair of the Palliative Medicine at the University of Bonn and senior co-author of the report, explains to SciDev.Net that there are serious misunderstandings about the nature of palliative care, including stigma attached to pain-relieving drugs. This, he says, is especially so for morphine (derived from opium) which makes regulators and health professionals uneasy. Former Philippine health secretary Manuel Dayrit explains that in countries like the Philippines, morphine is classified as a dangerous drug, with supply and transport highly regulated. Only physicians with special permits can prescribe them. The question is how to strike a balance between dangerous drugs and access for palliative care purposes, Dayrit says. Rudbruch, who is also chair of the International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care, says physicians in general are focused on cures and saving lives, neglecting care giving or relieving pain. Advance cancer and other life-threatening diseases and certain conditions (such as accidents and acute trauma) are often related to severe pain, Rudbruch says. Morphine is often associated with the terminally-ill, but patients may need opioids (drugs for pain relief) through treatments that can go on for years. In addition, there are non-life threatening conditions, like chronic lower back pain, that call for opioids for the patient to lead a normal life. Rudbruch emphasises that while morphine is cheap and can be produced locally in developing countries, it is still not readily available. According to the report, China has enough opioid analgesic to meet the needs of only 16 per cent of those who need it. The Philippines cover only about 8 per cent, Indonesia 4.2 per cent, India 4 per cent and Pakistan 1.5 per cent. In contrast, the US has an opioid epidemic. Benjie Reyes, undersecretary and permanent board member of the Philippine Dangerous Drugs Board, says that the government actually dispenses morphine in state-run hospitals for free so access should not be an issue.We addressed the regulatory roadblocks and even removed the requirement for the special form so that doctors can prescribe them for people who need them. But physicians are either not prescribing morphine or prescribing very expensive opioids, says Reyes.I suspect a lot of doctors are misinformed or have poor knowledge of pain management. This is something that the school system should address, he adds. South Carolina has a drug problem, and many elected leaders have begun looking at how best to deal with it. In August, I also took action. My office filed a lawsuit against a company for its role in creating that problem. This lawsuit is not a magical silver bullet that will end this epidemic, and the company being sued is not solely to blame for the crisis. However, when we look at the statistics and we read the stories, we are left with the inescapable conclusion that we must take action now. In 2016, South Carolina ranked ninth in the nation in opioid prescribing rates. Since 2011, more than 3,000 South Carolinians have died from prescription opioid overdoses. In 2015, there were more deaths in South Carolina from taking prescription opioids or heroin than there were homicides. Between 2000 and 2013, the number of babies born addicted to opioids has quadrupled. There have been more opioid prescriptions written between 2012 and 2016 than there are residents in South Carolina. Some people believe this epidemic only affects druggies or heroin users, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that most heroin users started with prescription opioids. More than 3 out of 4 new heroin users report abusing prescription opioids first. Typically, someone gets hurt or has surgery and is given a prescription opioid for pain. Because the drugs are so addictive, they might continue to take the drug even after they should have stopped or at doses that are dangerously high. Once they can no longer get more of the prescription drug, they turn to buying heroin on the street, since heroin is also an opioid. Many of the overdoses happen because the potency of street heroin varies so widely, and sometimes it includes fentanyl, a synthetic opioid thats even stronger than heroin. Whether it is prescription opioids, heroin or fentanyl, the result is too often deadly. Many of our citizens have personally struggled or watched a loved one struggle with this addiction. Many have watched a loved one die from this addiction. As taxpayers, we need to be concerned as well. Since 2007, South Carolina has spent roughly $15.8 million on Purdue opioids through its Medicaid program and more than $28 million through our State Health Plan for public employees. Medicaid spending for OxyContin from 2013 to 2016 was 90 percent more than the closest competitor drug. There has been an additional burden and expense borne by law enforcement, emergency providers and social service agencies, including $6 million dollars in expenses for agencies treating substance abuse disorders alone. The statistics and stories are alarming, and they demand action. Thats why my office has filed a lawsuit against Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin and other opioids. Let me be clear that there is absolutely nothing wrong with a credible company lawfully selling an approved drug on the free market to people who desperately need it. However, when, as our complaint alleges, a company knowingly markets an extremely dangerous and addictive drug to doctors and patients in a way that leads them to believe that it is not as dangerous or addictive, or more effective, that is a problem. This lawsuit is one of the ways we can fight the opioid epidemic, but everyone has a role to play. We can all personally fight the epidemic by taking these steps: >> If you have an injury or surgery and a doctor prescribes an opioid for pain, ask if theres an alternative. >> If you and your doctor decide an opioid is the best option, get it and take it for the shortest time possible. One problem now is that a doctor might prescribe a 30-day supply when all thats really needed is three or four days. >> If you do have prescription painkillers, keep them locked up so someone else cannot abuse them. >> And if you have leftover pills, dispose of them immediately by taking them to a participating pharmacy thats a controlled substance public disposal location. You also can take them to your local police department or sheriffs office that takes part in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. The next one will be on Oct. 28. In addition to taking these steps, we all need to become better educated on this threat. The opioid epidemic is real and it is devastating our communities, but we can slow and even reverse it by having open conversations and working together. Alan Wilson is the South Carolina attorney general. The lease renewal was signed with Taiwan Branch and Taiwan International Ports Corporation on Tuesday. Nicolas Sartini, ceo of APL, said: Today, intra-Asia container volume accounts for one-sixth of all containers moved globally. We see further growth prospects in this trade where APL is seeking to be a major player. Our terminal in the port of Kaohsiung will therefore be strategic for our advancement in intra-Asia where we are connecting the key markets of Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam amongst others via the relay hub today, he added. The Taiwanese terminal currently receives the vessels of APL and other carriers including CMA CGM. With an annual capacity of 1.5m teu, the facility boasts a productivity rate that tops 36 container moves per hour. The APL-operated terminal has two cargo berths with a linear quay length of 640 metres and a draft of 15.2 metres, sufficient to handle ships of up to 14,000 teu. The 101-acre terminal also comprises a container freight station, a 21,000-teu yard, three maintenance and repair workshops, two warehouses and two gas stations that provide value-added onsite logistics support to APL shippers. APL said it plans to upgrade its terminal operating system to raise productivity in the months ahead. Danish national Lund will be responsible for Radio Hollands operation in Asia, with offices in China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. Lund joined Radio Holland with a wealth of experience in the maritime industry, where he started in 1987 as trainee at AP Moller Maersk in Denmark and spent 21 years in the shipping group holding various leadership positions. After leaving AP Moller Maersk as senior vp eastern operations centre in 2009, he joined Germanischer Lloyd (GL) in 2010 as executive vp and regional manager for Asia, based in Shanghai. Following the merger between DNV and GL, Lund was appointed regional manager for Southeast Asia, Oceania and India at DNV GL, based in Singapore. Lund commented: Growing the Radio Holland brand in Asia is a priority. Our aim and drive is to make the global organization of 80 offices along the major shipping routes available to service the shipping community and expand our engagement with Asian shipbuilding centres and ports. Service of installations on board vessels will be front and centre of our interaction with shipowners and managers, while building towards a future where remote monitoring, diagnostics and maintenance increasingly will become a reality, he added. Ida Byrd-Hill Marlin Page Williams Damien Rocchi - courtesy of Grand Circus Microsoft's announcement earlier this year that it plans to relocate its regional technology center to downtown Detroit is just the latest sign that Motown's burgeoning tech sector is gathering steam. Add to that the recent convergence of the automotive and IT industries to produce automated vehicles and a growing community of local startups, and it's clear that the prospects are looking good for finding employment in STEM fields.In fact, jobs requiring STEM skills seem to be the wave of the future not just for Detroit, but for the state as a whole. According to a 2015 report by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget STEM job opportunities are projected to grow by 11.8 percent through 2020, compared to just 8.5 percent for all occupations.But in a city that's traditionally been geared towards manufacturing jobs, do Detroiters have the necessary skills to get hired? For most, the answer is unfortunately no.Even on the national level college grads seem to be struggling with STEM skills right now. According to a PwC study , By 2021 only 23 percent of college graduates will have the science and analytical abilities that 69 percent of U.S. businesses would prefer in the employees they hire.Luckily, it turns out several organizations are stepping in to fill the STEM skills gap in Detroit.A local nonprofit called Uplift, Inc. has chosen to tackle the issue by engaging school-age children and their parents with the goal of getting more people of color into the tech-related fields.The organization sponsors workshops, summer camps, invention labs, and other events geared around teaching problem-solving in a hands-on interdisciplinary manner. The group's activities, which emphasize science and technology while drawing on multiple types of skills, are designed to supplement what's learned in K-12 schools and workforce development programs. And all programming involving children requires the participation of a parent or guardian, so that entire families benefit."Corporate America says that they're looking for problem solvers," says president and founder Ida Byrd-Hill, who has a background in financial planning. "Our projects try bring all the discipline areas together, so we can teach the parent and the student to effectively solve a problem."Uplift, Inc.'s learning tools have included everything from video games to nature walks, but its biggest project right now is Automation Workz!, a four-hour-long scavenger hunt event linked to Detroit's North American International Auto Show that provides participants with opportunities to earn cash prizes. As opposed to a traditional scavenger hunt, where one might pick up items or take a photo, at Automation Workz! competitors complete different activities designed help improve students standardized tests scores, like coding a robot."Those are hands-on activities," Byrd-Hill says, "and after you do them enough, when you sit in front of a testing situation, it clicks. "Byrd-Hill first began doing this sort of work as a volunteer while her children were enrolled in Detroit Public Schools, putting together a committee of parents to create sealed lab sets for the classroom. Concerned about a lack of hands-on workshops, labs and computer courses, she continued to work with parent organizations to promote experiential learning in local schools.She launched Uplift, Inc. in 1998, and thanks to the hard work of some gung-ho volunteers, not long after its founding the organization was sponsoring family events in around 60 area schools. As for its work bringing experiential learning to young people, the group seems to be making a real difference. Six area schools Uplift, Inc. has been doing focused work with have experienced standardized test score increases of 70 to 300 percent, according to Byrd-Hill.In 2006, under the auspices of DPS, Uplift, Inc. piloted an alternative cyber school, the Hustle & TECHknow Preparatory High School, aimed at teaching tech skills to at-risk youth in an effort to steer them towards becoming entrepreneurs. All of its curriculum except for the labs was posted online. Although it's now closed, the school had an 80 percent graduation rate and 100 percent post-secondary matriculation rate, according to Uplift, Inc.'s website.Uplift, Inc. is currently involved with 18 Detroit schools, both public and charter, along with many more within metro Detroit. It's currently looking into opening another alternative school and hopes to double the attendance at its Automation Workz! program, from 650 participants this year to 1,300 in 2018.In order to fill as many jobs as possible with local talent, many novices will have to become fluent in technology. That's why Sisters Code was started. Open to women from all backgrounds between the ages of 25 to 85, the program is designed to "awaken the mature geek.""We're all about empowering women in that age bracket to believe that they can do something different," says Sisters Code founder Marlin Williams. "And if they want to try coding, then we provide a safe fun environment to do so."The group's mission mirrors Williams's own experience. Her first brush with coding came when she was 25 years old; it was the nineties, she was an aspiring mortician and substitute teacher doing her best to make ends meet. After an acquaintance told her about a coding bootcamp at Compuware's Farmington Hills offices that taught seven computer languages in 13 weeks, she decided to take the dive.Williams enrolled and it opened the door to a lucrative new career. Within a matter of months, she was creating and maintaining code for the automotive and banking industries. Several years after that she became Compuware's first Diversity and Strategic Business executive and later still the city of Detroit's deputy chief information officer.In 2013, Williams started Sisters Code as a way to both give back and make the tech field more inclusive. The organization offers several different programs: a Weekend Website Warrior class, an Intermediate HTML and CSS class, and a Beginner Javascript course. The weekend course is the gateway to the program for beginners, teaching basic HTML and CSS and a little bit of JavaScript."Just the look on their faces when they are able to do something in HTML is amazing," says WIlliams. "And by the end of this program, two days, they have created a small interactive website."Classes take place at the Detroit administrative offices of the Henry Ford Health System, which along with Microsoft is a corporate partner to Sisters Code. There's a small fee for participating to cover the cost of meals and ensure that instructors are paid.Since it began four years ago, Sisters Code has trained close to 300 people. Among the success stories, Williams mentions a Zumba instructor who attended the introductory class, enrolled in a bootcamp, and now works as a systems analyst with a major corporation. Or a 62-year-old retiree who attended classes, came back as a teaching assistant, and now runs a small business creating websites for churches.The organization has big plans for 2018it's currently in the process of transitioning from a social enterprise to a 501c3 nonprofit and is doing the footwork to open branches in other U.S. cities.As for the future of STEM-related jobs in and around the Motor City, although she thinks more work needs to be done bringing trainings to the Detroit neighborhoods outside of Midtown and downtown, Williams is quite optimistic."Detroit is going to be revered as one of the best places for tech companies, tech employees and tech entrepreneursa fully functional tech ecosystem," she says. "No one's going to be left out, because there's going to be opportunities everywhere."For Detroiters looking to hone a more specific set of skills for the IT field, there's Grand Circus , a tech training institute which also operates a sister campus in Grand Rapids. Both are connected to the Rock Ventures family of companies."Our mission is to provide a platform to support an energized tech community of developers, learners and entrepreneurs in Detroit and Grand Rapids while also providing tech talent to the amazing companies throughout our region," says Grand Circus CEO Damien Rocchi.Launched in 2013, Grand Circus offers a special coding bootcamp designed to teach the technical know-how and soft skills needed to lead a successful career in the industry. At present, there have been more than 650 graduates who are now employed at 140 different companies around the state.Bootcamps are typically 10 to 12 weeks, during which time students gain skills to build fully-functional applications in Front-End, Java or .NET(C#) programming. "We teach these specific languages because we know there are employers throughout the region that are actively looking for these skill sets," says Rocchi.Grand Circus also offers a variety of coding, design, marketing, and other workshopsincluding a free intro to coding classwhich are available on weekends and during evening hours. Tuition varies depending on the specifics of a particular workshop or bootcamp, but scholarship opportunities are also available.In fact, Grand Circus has launched two DEVELOP(her) bootcamps geared specifically for women and held ten special bootcamps in conjunction with Mayor Mike Duggan's Detroit at Work initiative, which were open only to Detroit residents ages 18 and up.The institute even collaborates with several major tech companies. It's one of eleven Google for Entrepreneurs tech hubs, a partnership that involves running events, holding office hours, and making programming to support Detroit's tech entrepreneurial community.Then there's a special Facebook-oriented bootcamp that combines Grand Circus' front-end curriculum with React, an open-source JavaScript platform maintained by the social media giant. Applicants accepted into that program receive full scholarships and training in a variety of coding languages as well as job assistance training and first-round interviews with Michigan tech firms. Meridian and Quicken Loans also partner with Grand Circus, awarding scholarships and offering conditional employment positions to graduates."The technology field is constantly evolving," says Rocchi, "which is why we maintain strong partnerships with tech companies and local government entities to ensure that our students are receiving the latest and most advanced training to properly position them to fill open technology roles."This article is part of a series on the state of STEM education and workforce development in Detroit. It is underwritten by the Michigan Science Center . Read more articles in the series here All photos, except where mentioned, by Sean Work Sen. Bam Aquino on the liberation of Marawi City This marks the end of a dark period in Philippine history, when terrorists sowed fear, violence and devastation in the City of Marawi. Our Armed Forces deserve our utmost praise and gratitude for this victory and for sacrificing their lives to bring peace to our country. We also commend members of our local government units, government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector who took in evacuees and provided support to families who lost their homes and livelihood. Mindanao, together with the entire nation, saw violence and despair during the siege. Now, we must illuminate the hopeful Filipino spirit. It's time to work together to heal, rebuild and create prosperity in Marawi City. Press Release October 17, 2017 De Lima alarm over youth suicide incidence, seeks swift passage of mental health bill Alarmed at the rising number of suicide incidence among Filipinos, especially among students, Senator Leila M. de Lima has urged House leaders to prioritize the passage into law of the comprehensive mental health bill. De Lima, a known human rights defender, said she hopes the counterpart measure will be given priority by her colleagues at the House of Representatives when Congress resumes session on Nov. 13. "We have already witnessed the deaths of many people under Duterte's bloodthirsty regime and we can't afford to lose more lives to suicide. We need to confront this disturbing issue affecting our young people," she said. While most suicide cases go largely unreported, De Lima acknowledged that the scourge of suicide usually takes a high-profile case before people start conversing about depression and other mental health illnesses. "Self-inflicted deaths frequently happen among teenagers, children, and even adults who are either suffering from depression or mental health problems. We don't need to see high statistics or high-profile case to realize that suicide warrants the nation's serious attention," she added. Based on a World Health Organization (WHO) factsheet for 2017, suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-olds, and 78 percent of global suicides occur in low and middle-income countries. The age-standardized suicide rate in the Philippines is 5.8 for male, 1.9 for females, and 3.8 for both sexes, WHO also reported. The Senator from Bicol urged the government to address the pressing need for a comprehensive mental health solution and more intensified suicide prevention program to bring the actual suicide cases down to zero. "It's difficult for many to talk about depression and mental illness out in the open for fear of being judged as someone with mental disorder. We need to stop the stigma and invest on health programs and services that would address the issue," she said. One in every three Filipinos has a mental health problem, according to University of the Philippines College of Medicine professor emeritus Dr. Lourdes Ignacio. With the country's population reaching the 110 million mark, she continued, the number of Filipinos who have mental problems could reach 28.48 million. De Lima also lamented that the country's supposed national support hotline for depression and suicide prevention--Hopeline-- presented by the Department of Health last year, failed to serve its purpose. "We need to find a solution that is accessible to all that's why suicide prevention must be intensified and prioritized by the present administration," she maintained. To date, the Comprehensive Mental Health Bill has passed on third and final reading at the Senate, while its counterpart measure is in the penultimate stage of its legislative mill at the Lower House. Press Release October 17, 2017 Statement on Pulse Asia Survey on War on Drugs Pulse Asia yesterday published the findings of its September 2017 Nationwide Survey on the Campaign Against Illegal Drugs, revealing that 88 percent of Filipinos continue to support the Duterte administration's crusade against the drug trade. The overwhelming public support for the government's drug war - despite the staunch opposition of a vocal, but apparently small minority - provides the Duterte administration with a crystal-clear mandate to continue the campaign against illegal drugs with renewed vigor. The challenge we now face is to continue the War on Drugs in a way which will inspire public confidence in the integrity of law enforcement authorities and avoid unnecessary bloodshed. This can be accomplished by instituting reforms to guarantee transparency and accountability in the conduct of anti-illegal drug operations, ensuring the constitutional rights of drug suspects and innocent bystanders alike will be respected at all times. I am confident the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the government's vanguard in this renewed battle, will be successful in meeting this challenge head-on. Ultimately, it is my sincere belief that we must stay the course in achieving the vision of a drug-free Philippines. I am one with the President and the Filipino people in the fight to eliminate the scourge of drugs from our society. Press Release October 17, 2017 Statement on the Liberation of Marawi City After almost five months of fighting, President Rodrigo Duterte has declared the liberation of Marawi City from the treacherous grasp of the Maute Rebellion. First and foremost, we must pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who have sacrificed their blood, sweat, and tears to make this victory possible. Their heroism in the face of immeasurable hardship has immortalized their legacy in the hearts and minds of a grateful nation, which will be forever in their debt. In this moment of triumph, we must also honor the memory of the 162 soldiers who gave their lives in the defense of Marawi City. I pray that this moment will somehow assuage the incomparable grief suffered by their loved ones, that their hearts may swell with somber pride in knowing that this essential victory was made possible by the noble sacrifice of our fallen heroes. As the fighting draws to a close, an even bigger challenge looms over the horizon - the rehabilitation of Marawi City. The city's infrastructure is in shambles, and the lives of the hundreds of thousands of people displaced by the war have been devastated. The government must make the rehabilitation effort one of its foremost priorities in the coming years. A united Filipino people must work together to build Marawi back into something better than it ever was. Lastly, we must remember that the Battle of Marawi City is just one theater in the larger war against violent extremism. May the resounding defeat of the Maute group serve as an ominous warning to any terrorists who would dare challenge the sovereignty of the Republic of the Philippines. I urge the government to build on the lessons learned from the Marawi conflict as it continues the campaign to eradicate all terrorist threats in Mindanao and beyond. God Bless the Philippines! Press Release October 17, 2017 HONTIVEROS EXPRESSES ALARM OVER ZERO FUNDS FOR CANCER MEDICINE IN 2018 BUDGET Coinciding with the observance of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday expressed alarm over the non-allocation of funds for the procurement of cancer medicines in the proposed 2018 National Government budget. Hontiveros, who is the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women and Vice-chair of the Senate Committee on Health, said that the budget for the procurement of breast cancer medicines in 2017 is around P 97 million. However for 2018, she said that there is none. Hontiveros also said that the P 97 million is just for breast cancer medicines. In the 2017 budget, a total of P 378 million was allocated for the Department of Health's (DOH) all cancer medicine access program: P 150 million for colon and prostate, P 97 million for breast cancer and P 131 million for childhood cancers. The Senator said that this is the amount that was not included in the 2018 budget. "This is unacceptable. Our country ranked the highest in a list of 197 countries with the most number of cases of breast cancer, yet we have zero allocations for breast cancer medicines? How can the government convince those suffering from cancer that they can overcome this disease if it cannot provide the public access to needed medicines?" Hontiveros lamented. The Senator said that she has already raised this concern to the DOH. "I've already raised this matter with the health department. When the Senate resumes its deliberations of the 2018 budget, I will immediately move for the restoration of the said funds and push for the expansion of the program in terms of the volume of procured medicines and in terms of including other types of cancer medicines," she said. "We cannot afford to pass a national budget that has no allocation to procure medicines for cancer, particularly breast cancer. The government's commitment to fight this disease must be reflected in a real and substantial fiscal allocation. The government must put its money where its mouth is," Hontiveros stressed. On Monday, Hontiveros joined the ICanServe Foundation, the Philippine Cancer Society and Akbayan Women in an event aimed to raise awareness on breast cancer and the need for women to have equal access to information, screening, medicine and different treatments. In 2016, according to the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, the Philippines ranked highest among a list of 197 countries with the most number of cases of breast cancer. Press Release October 17, 2017 Legarda: Cater to needs and aspirations of marginalized sectors to eradicate poverty Senator Loren Legarda today called on authorities to ensure that the poorest of our poor belonging to the most vulnerable and marginalized sectors of our country are provided with the necessary government interventions--that address their needs and support their aspirations--in order to achieve inclusive growth and eventually alleviate poverty. Legarda made the statement today, October 17, 2017, in celebration of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, with this year's theme calling for all nations to end poverty towards a path of peaceful and inclusive societies. "Our government should ensure that we are extending the necessary support for all poor Filipino families. Our agencies should strengthen their efforts in providing social welfare services, as well as livelihood opportunities for them to generate income. It is also important to create an enabling environment where all our farmers, fisher folk communities, indigenous peoples, and workers, especially those at the rural level, could succeed and eventually provide for their own," Legarda said. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), poverty incidence among Filipinos in 2015 was estimated at 21.6%, registering 21.9 million Filipinos below poverty line.[1] A Filipino in 2015 needed at least P1,813 on average monthly in order to meet both basic food and non-food needs. The Senator said that the proposed 2018 national budget, which she described as makatao, would hopefully foster convergence among government agencies to stimulate growth in our communities and sustain it at the level that would hopefully eradicate poverty in our regions. "There are no band-aid solutions to a problem as complex and as deeply rooted as poverty. Alleviating poverty would require a whole-of-government approach. The private sector, civil society organizations, and other partners will also be crucial in supporting our poor families in this process," Legarda said. Legarda mentioned that the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD); the Shared Service Facilities (SSF) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); the National Greening Program (NGP) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); free irrigation for farmers; universal access to healthcare; and the free college tuition in state universities and colleges are among the many government programs that would further support and open doors for our poor Filipinos. "Poverty is a side effect of decades of poor governance and lack of opportunities for our people to prosper. We should not blame the poor for being poor. They are the victims. We cannot achieve real lasting growth if there are still millions of Filipinos living below poverty line," Legarda concluded. Press Release October 17, 2017 Legarda Lauds Military Troops; Urges Early Rehabilitation for Marawi Senator Loren Legarda today commended the brave and gallant efforts of the soldiers and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), which led to the killing of the terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute; and urged authorities for the immediate rehabilitation of the war-torn city of Marawi. "The fallen and living soldiers of our military are testament to the courage and resilience of our Filipino spirit. They are heroes in their own right who have protected us against the evils of our society. We thank these brave men and women who risked and sacrificed their lives for peace and order in our communities," Legarda said. "As the dust settles and once law and order are restored, I encourage all agencies to extend the maximum assistance this government can provide in the most urgent manner as possible. I am one with the many Filipinos who are calling for the immediate rehabilitation and restoration to normalcy within Marawi City," she added. The Senator said that, while the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has already allocated P5-billion for this year, more funds have been allocated for the quick recovery and rehabilitation of the City under the proposed 2018 National Budget. Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, said that aside from the budget under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) Fund for Marawi's rehabilitation, the Senate also introduced additional funding to ensure quick recovery of the whole community. "In light of Marawi City's current situation, we are making available Ten Billion Pesos of the NDRRM Fund for 2018 for the city's quick recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation," she said. "We are also making available a 500-Million-Peso subsidy for a loan facility for Marawi residents, under the auspices of the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), to enable them to reconstruct their damaged houses," she added. Legarda explained that, under a special provision in the 2018 General Appropriations Bill (GAB), it is specified that such loans will be free of interest, but the loanable amount shall not exceed Two Million Pesos per household and the LBP may charge the borrower the administrative cost incurred in processing the loan. Legarda also said that, as the Senate restored the One Billion Pesos budget of the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Project, 50 Million Pesos of the fund will be allocated for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by the war in Marawi. Moreover, the Senator also provided additional Five Million Pesos for the cultural mapping that will be done by the Mindanao State University (MSU) to preserve the intangible and tangible heritage left amid the war in the city. "It is saddening that the war in Marawi has affected Bangsamoro heritage, with precious artifacts and heirlooms in affected homes and heritage structures destroyed. We need immediate intervention so that the next generations would not be deprived of knowledge about this rich heritage. The process itself and the output of the cultural mapping can help in the psychological healing of the affected populace and in strengthening our cultural bonds with our fellow Muslim Filipinos," she said. "These budgets go with our fervent prayer that we may immediately see hope, dignity, and peace restored in Marawi City and other affected areas," Legarda concluded. As if last weeks Wine Country infernos werent enough, a new wildfire broke out Tuesday in the Santa Cruz Mountains and quickly spread through dry brush and thick forest, igniting buildings and prompting numerous evacuations around Boulder Creek. Five firefighters were injured and at least four structures were destroyed before dawn after a building fire late Monday night ignited the hills and sent flames sweeping through trees. Wildland fires also popped up in Marin, Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Hundreds of people were briefly evacuated in Dublin after a grass fire swept close to homes in the Tassajara Valley in the late afternoon. Earlier in the day, a car fire near Port Costa lit up the brush-filled hills outside the tiny hamlet, and a brush fire broke out near Wolfback Ridge above Marin City, shutting down the southbound lanes of Highway 101 before firefighters could gain control. All those fires were stopped before they could damage property. But there was no such luck in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Things remained dangerous there all day. Nearly 600 firefighters battled the flames of the Bear Fire, which ignited on Bear Creek Road about 10:30 p.m. Monday, and the effort to prevent another disaster was hampered by steep, sometimes inaccessible terrain, according to Assistant Chief Rob Sherman of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as Cal Fire. The blaze had consumed 271 acres in the steep forested mountains of Santa Cruz County southwest of San Jose by Tuesday evening and was only 5 percent contained. Sherman said during a news conference near the fire that he wasnt sure whether the four burned structures were homes, sheds, garages or outbuildings. The fire sparked up just as thousands of firefighters were getting a handle on a series of wildland blazes throughout Northern California that destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 41 people, including a volunteer firefighter, 38-year-old Garrett Paiz of Missouri, who crashed a water truck near a fire line in Napa County on Monday. The disaster up north was so fresh that many in the Santa Cruz Mountains had a hard time believing their own community could now be burning. I thought it was a joke at first, said Hauslley Silva, 39, who, with his two children, had to flee along with residents of about 150 other homes in the Las Cumbres community, which was being threatened by the advancing flames. Silva got an evacuation call at 11:45 p.m. Monday and said he was tempted to ignore it and go to bed, but remembered the horror stories from North Bay survivors who described being awoken by smoke and flames at their doorsteps. Were all on alert, he said as he and his children stood outside an evacuation center at the Lakeside Elementary School in Los Gatos. The cruel coincidence that Tuesday was the 28th anniversary of the devastating Loma Prieta earthquake, which had its epicenter nearby, was lost on nobody. Residents along Deer Creek Road, Rons Road, Dons Road, Lost Valley Road, Favre Ridge and Oak Ridge were evacuated to emergency shelters at Lakeside Elementary and Zayante Fire Station in Felton. There was no timeline given Tuesday for when the evacuation orders could be lifted. No one is coming back tonight, Angela Bernheisel, a Cal Fire spokeswoman, said Tuesday evening. Five firefighters were taken to a hospital, including a member of an inmate crew who suffered smoke inhalation, one firefighter who fell at least 30 feet and suffered a broken wrist and facial lacerations, and a third who had cuts and a sprained ankle, Sherman said. All but one of the injured firefighters were treated and released. The ground crews, with help from two air tankers and seven helicopters dropping fire retardant and water, had launched a direct attack on the fire, Sherman said. They were being helped by three bulldozers and six water tenders that were shuttling water back and forth between the fire line. Were starting to make some progress, but access is a big issue for us, Sherman said. Its just steep, steep terrain and just hard access trying to get into this thing. Sherman said the firefight was made easier by a lack of offshore winds, which were responsible for fanning nearly two dozen fires into a frenzy last week. We don't have winds, so thats good, he said. The conflagrations over the past week are considered the deadliest cluster of wildfires in California history. They mark the culmination of a bad year overall. As of Oct. 15, California has battled 1,716 more fires than the five-year average for this time of year. The 479,745 acres burned is more than double the five-year average. Of that, 245,000 acres burned in the past week. We are concerned any time we get a new fire start anywhere in the state, said Mike Mohler, a battalion chief at Cal Fires state operations center. The fire in the Santa Cruz Mountains came as a sucker punch to fire officials, who were reporting major strides in containing the deadly wildfires that have devastated Santa Rosa and terrorized numerous Wine Country towns since Oct. 8. Mohler said that the cooler temperatures and rain forecast for later this week are welcome, but that the fire season is a long way from being over, especially in Southern California. We are cautiously optimistic, but we are definitely not out of the woods and weve got a lot of work to do, he said. Not only are we concerned with what we are doing right now, but we have to be ready to move to other parts of the state. Evacuees from the Santa Cruz Mountains fire filled the Lakeside school parking lot and gymnasium Tuesday morning, creating a bit of a logjam as students arrived for classes. Las Cumbres taxidermist Kerwin Schetter said he was awakened at 2 a.m. by sheriffs deputies pounding on his door, their red lights flashing and sirens blaring. I grabbed my mother and my dog and jumped in the car, Schetter said. You could see and smell the fire. There was a bright orange glow on the ridge. Ashes were falling. Schetter said he was forced to leave behind the hides of four dozen deer, pigs, elk and bears that he was keeping in freezers in his shop to preserve while he worked on them. Hopefully theyll still be there when I get back, he said. Im hoping for the best. Cal Fires Bernheisel said emergency vehicles were having difficulty navigating the rough dirt roads and steep slopes leading to the fire. Road closures from the washout of Highway 35 during flooding last winter werent helping, but she said there were promising signs of progress later in the day after an influx of crews and equipment from the Wine Country fires. Resources have trickled in throughout the day coming from Napa and Sonoma County, she said. As long as they have resources to give us, we'll take them. Sherman said the air was fairly dry with relative humidity between 16 percent and 20 percent, which posed a challenge even though the winds were light. Were going to be working right on the fires edge, Sherman said. The idea is to hit it pretty hard with the aircraft and go ahead and hit it with the ground resources at the same time. The fire wasnt progressing rapidly. Its going into heavy brush and timber at a moderate rate of spread, said Ginny Petras of Cal Fire. Fire crews were close to snuffing out the deadliest fire to rage through the Wine Country. The Tubbs Fire, which scorched 36,432 acres and killed 18 people during its rampage from near Calistoga in Napa County to Santa Rosa in Sonoma County was 87 percent contained Tuesday. 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. The 52,894-acre Nuns Fire straddling Sonoma and Napa counties raised havoc over the weekend after it merged with four other fires, but firefighters had built a containment line around 78 percent of the burn area Tuesday, and officials said it was well on its way toward full containment. The 51,064-acre Atlas Fire, which had raged through Wine Country, was 80 percent contained. The tide has turned, said Cal Fire spokesman Jonathan Cox. Lets close the book on these fires. San Francisco Chronicle staff writers Lizzie Johnson and Jenna Lyons contributed to this report. Trisha Thadani, Steve Rubenstein, Peter Fimrite and Kevin Fagan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com; srubenstein@sfchronicle.com; pfimrite@sfchronicle.com; kfagan@sfchronicle.com Helping and getting help FEMA is offering assistance to fire victims. For more information go to www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call (800) 621-3362. The Red Cross is organizing relief efforts in the North Bay. Evacuees trying to connect with family and friends should post on the organizations Safe and Well website: www.redcross.org/safeandwell. Community volunteers who want to help in relief efforts can sign up with the Red Cross at http://tinyurl.com/RedCrossVolOctober2017. Donations to help those affected by California wildfires and other disasters can be made at www.redcross.org. People can also call (800) 733-2767 or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. People needing to report or ask about a missing person in Sonoma County can call the county Fire and Emergency Services Department at (707) 565-3856. For tips on how to prepare for a wildfire, go to: www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/wildfire. For fire information in Sonoma County, call (707) 565-3856. Donations to help fire victims can be made here: https://www.redwoodcu.org/. To help Tubbs Fire victims, donate here: http://biturl.in/64. Food donations can be made at the Redwood Empire Food Bank in Santa Rosa: http://refb.org/. San Francisco and dozens of other California cities won a victory when Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that would have shifted the power to regulate placement of wireless communications equipment from municipalities to the state. The cities were strongly opposed to the legislation, saying they needed to keep control over their own rights of way and infrastructure. But experts who had been tracking the bill since its inception in February said they expect state lawmakers to resurrect it, perhaps as soon as next year, and pointed to a similar measure thats gaining traction at the Federal Communications Commission. The bill that Brown vetoed Sunday, SB649 by Sen. Ben Hueso, D-San Diego, sought to standardize the rules that cities must abide by when considering a telecommunication companys request to install small-cell devices antennas typically mounted on streetlights or telephone poles. Companies such as AT&T and Verizon say they must install more small-cell antennas to meet the demand for mobile bandwidth, especially in urban centers located far from large cellular towers. Small-cell devices are also critical to deploying new wireless technologies, including the pending rollout of 5G networks. Hueso said the bill would simplify the permitting process for companies. Creating a single, statewide framework for handling small-cell permits would be more efficient than forcing telecommunications firms to conform to laws that vary from city to city, he said. California needs to enact laws that streamline the permitting process and grant greater access to public rights of way, or its residents will be left behind, said Jonathan Adelstein, president and CEO of the Wireless Infrastructure Association, a trade group that advocates for telecommunications companies. He said his group was disappointed that Gov. Brown decided to veto this important piece of legislation. In a veto statement, Brown said, There is something of real value in having a process that results in extending this innovative technology rapidly and efficiently. Nevertheless, I believe that the interest which localities have in managing rights of way requires a more balanced solution than the one achieved in this bill. In addition to worries about losing control over where small-cell antennas can be placed, San Francisco and other cities feared the bill would cost them millions in lost revenue. The measure would have capped the annual amount that cities could charge telecommunications companies at $250 per antenna. San Franciscos Public Utilities Commission said the city would lose out on $33 million over 10 years if the bill was signed into law. Im thankful that Gov. Brown vetoed this legislation, said San Francisco Supervisor Mark Farrell, who sponsored a board-passed resolution opposing the bill. This was a power play by lobbyists up in Sacramento to take away local control. David Witkowski, executive director of the wireless communications initiative at Joint Venture Silicon Valley, a nonprofit policy think tank, said Browns expressed desire to find a more balanced way of streamlining placement regulations was a strong signal that the bill could resurface next year. He also pointed to a similar initiative unfolding at the Federal Communications Commission to regulate small-cell permitting at the national level. The agency is taking public comment on a measure to promote the rapid deployment of advanced wireless broadband service to all Americans. By early 2018, its an open question right now as to whether well get another SB649 in California, Witkowski said, or if well have to live within the federal paradigm that comes down from Washington. Dominic Fracassa is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dfracassa@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @dominicfracassa UPDATE: Southbound U.S. Highway 101 has reopened in Sausalito this evening after some lanes were closed this afternoon due to a pair of roadside fires in the area, according to the California Highway Patrol. ----- Multiple lanes of southbound Highway 101 were closed Tuesday afternoon as firefighters battled two brush fires near the freeway at Rodeo Avenue between Marin City and Sausalito. The fires are each about one to two acres in size and were under control as of 1:59 p.m, Marin County spokesperson Laine Hendricks said. One lane of southbound Highway 101 was reopened by 2:50 p.m., Lieutenant Scott Harrington of the Marin County Sheriffs Office said. The fire was reported to the California Highway Patrol at 11:58 a.m. Crews from throughout Marin County, including the Mill Valley Fire Departments, were fighting the blaze with assistance from Cal Fire, Hendricks said. Cal Fire dispatched an air tanker that bombarded the blaze with fire retardant. The area near Cloudview Road, Cloudview Trail and Wolfpack Ridge Road was briefly evacuated earlier on Tuesday, but the order was lifted at 1:36 p.m. No evacuation orders are currently under way. CHP did not provide an estimate on when the southbound lanes of the highway will reopen. Traffic is currently being diverted off the freeway at Marin City and drivers are recommended to use alternate routes. No homes were damaged or threatened by the fire, Harrington said. There was no word on the cause of the fire. Annie Ma is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ama@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @anniema15 PAUL CHINN/SFC PG&E Corp. has about $800 million in insurance to cover claims in case its subsidiary Pacific Gas and Electric Co. is found liable for any of the fires currently burning through Northern California, the company reported Friday in a regulatory filing. The filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission noted that while the cause of the fires has not yet been determined, California fire officials are investigating whether PG&Es power lines played a role. PG&E Corp. stock has dropped about 23 percent since the fires erupted on Oct. 8, closing Monday at $53.43. The idea of being spied on at work by employers cameras and microchips embedded in your body seems, at first, a dystopian fancy. But the reality is surveillance is already happening, and to find it, look no further than your own computer. Email and message scanning, once the primary realm of industries required by law to record and track interactions between workers and customers, has become increasingly commonplace among companies with or without any legal obligation to keep logs of those conversations. Tracking tools meant to tell employers where workers go, who they talk to and how much time they spend at their desks are already on the market. Software designed to capture images of workers computers and whats on the screen has begun to proliferate among businesses that rely on a remote workforce. The more popular these tools become, experts in the field say, the greater the need to have a conversation: about regulation, privacy and the interests of workers and their employers. The case law on employee tracking is really from the 1980s, which is crazy considering how far the technology has come, said Ben Waber, chief executive of Humanyze, a startup that sells smart badges to companies interested in tracking and learning more about their employees behavior. Collecting (employee behavior) data is not difficult. Understanding it is very difficult. And as more and more players get in this space, eventually someone is going to do something wrong, and well have reactive regulation, rather than the kind meant to prevent that bad behavior in the first place. Waber is staunchly for increased government regulation, an unusual position for someone in the industry that would be regulated. But hes not alone. Several leaders in the workplace analytics business have advocated for greater rules governing privacy and how worker data is kept and used. With more legal oversight, Waber argues, employees may be able to maintain control over their data, ensure their privacy and avoid a future wherein employers are able to measure and control their every move, keystroke and interaction. Imagine if we had something like a HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) for work. People would know what their rights are, companies could make sure theyre being compliant, Waber said. This is a really critical issue for our industry; companies like mine, big and small, we need to be demanding real, comprehensive regulation in the next five to 10 years strong employee protection, a required opt-in system, data aggregation rather than individual monitoring, that sort of thing. And if we dont, something bad is going to happen, and then well see reactive regulation, which is never good. Humanyze, which has offices in Boston and Palo Alto, outfits workers with smart badges that track how employees spend their time, who they interact with and how long they spend doing what Waber calls heads-down work by pinging other badges and the employees own computer. It doesnt track movement, typing speed or other metrics that Waber said are ripe for abuse. The program, which is opt-in only, also doesnt provide employers with worker-specific data. That means that while employers can see a general snapshot of their workforce how much time, on average, their employees spend at their desk, which departments work the most together and so on Humanyzes software does not allow companies to zero in on any individual. Employees can see their own data on a digital dashboard, but that information is kept private and stored using a number, rather than a name or specific identifier. Those who do not want to participate an average of 6 to 7 percent at any given company, according to Waber are given fake badges that look like all the others, but do nothing to track that particular employees behavior. Waber doesnt see his pro-regulation stance as being in opposition to his company. In fact, he said, he thinks his company can only survive in a world in which the kind of surveillance employers are allowed to conduct is limited. Its also why he rolls his eyes at the kind of surveillance that typically grabs headlines like microchip implants and wearable tracking devices. Wisconsin tech company Three Square Market implanted a small radio-frequency identification, or RFID, chip about the size of a grain of rice into the hands of willing employees. Under the skin, between their thumb and index finger, the chip is primarily used to make mundane tasks more convenient, the company said: swiping into the building, logging into computers or paying for food at the cafeteria. But experts have cautioned that once the chip is implanted, other data can also be collected, like the duration of employees bathroom breaks. Implanting chips, frankly, its a PR stunt, Waber said. Theres no valid reason to do anything like that from a data perspective. More tailor-made wearables that are looking at typing speed or how much time employees are walking around and where theyre going, beyond privacy issues, theres some very serious methodical flaws when youre looking at behavior through that sort of lens. At companies where emails, messages and other forms of electronic communication are recorded and stored, knowing who said what to whom is the whole point. Upwork, a Mountain View startup that pairs businesses with remote contractors, allows employers to view screenshots and activity summaries of their freelancers computer screens, providing a virtual log of what theyre doing and when in what the company calls a Work Diary. The program acts as a visual record of how hired freelancers spend their time, and presents the screenshots as a grid of work-in-progress snapshots in hourly rows, each representing a 10-minute billing segment. Actiance, headquartered in Redwood City, provides tools that allow businesses to track employee communication via email, phone, text messages and more. Though its business customers tend to come from industries like banking and health care, where this kind of tracking is mandated for regulatory purposes and to protect against things like insider trading, Actiance senior director of information governance Robert Cruz said the company has seen a sharp rise in companies not bound by law looking for ways to track their workers and record their communications. Theres a recognition of OK, Im letting people use these internal networks, and theres potential that high-value information or information that could be used to harm my company could get out through any one of these communication networks, Cruz said. Companies are more and more concerned about the loss of sensitive data, departing employees taking data with them, whats leaving the system, and so on. Software like the kind Actiance provides scans communication for keywords or phrases and stores all messaging data for a set amount of time. One of the phrases that might trigger a company to take a deeper look? Lets take this conversation offline. Marissa Lang is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mlang@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Marissa_Jae This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate In the history of the United States, there has been an unshakable bond between the idea of hard work and prosperity, a relationship author James Truslow Adams eloquently described as the American Dream, a term he coined. The American dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement, Adams wrote in 1931. However, to many people, the rapid pace of technological change appears to be eroding that linkage. Working hard is fine as long as you have work. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and automation seem more likely to replace us than help us. Indeed, global consulting firm McKinsey & Co. estimates that in 60 percent of all occupations, at least 30 percent of job activities can be automated. The truth is that the American dream and technological advancement have always gone hand in hand. The original European colonists who migrated to America in the 17th century looking for gold eventually found ways to grow tobacco and cotton instead. The agrarian life they established gave way in the 19th and 20th centuries to factory workers who migrated to big cities to pump out clothes, cars and appliances. Today, people flock to the United States, especially Silicon Valley, to write software code for smartphones and self-driving cars. In other words, as technologies change, so does the economy, often for the better. Technologies no doubt destroy industries and jobs but also create new opportunities and markets, frequently in the most unexpected ways. It all depends on consumer demand, said James Bessen, an economist who serves as executive director of the technology and policy research initiative at Boston University School of Law. And its really hard to anticipate all of the things that consumers will want to buy or do. People assume that automation means a decline in jobs, but thats simply not true, said Bessen, author of Learning by Doing: The Real Connection Between Innovation, Wages, and Wealth. Automation means things move faster, but speed doesnt necessarily mean jobs will suffer. Speed can mean new jobs are being created faster. The real question is how technology boosts productivity, or how the economy produces goods and services in the most efficient way possible. Capital and labor are finite resources, so doing more with less means lower prices for those goods and services. And as more and more people can afford things, the market grows to a point where companies need to hire workers to meet demand. According to Bessens research, weavers on power looms at first could produce 2.5 times as much coarse cloth per hour as a weaver on a hand loom. Over the ensuing decades, advances in power loom technology generated another 20-fold increase in output per hour. You might assume that power looms wiped out jobs for weavers. Yet from 1830 to 1900, the number of weavers in the United States quadrupled. Why? Because automation also increased demand, Bessen wrote in his book. With progressively lower costs, prices fell, consumers demanded more cotton cloth per capita, and there was more demand for weavers. The automobile is a good example of technology destroying one industry but creating a new, much larger market. Famed industrialist Henry Fords innovations in assembly line production made cars affordable to the masses. Demand for Model Ts soared, which meant Ford needed to hire lots of workers to make them. His methods allowed automakers to eventually manufacture heavier vehicles like trucks more cheaply, giving birth to the transportation and logistics industries. People thought ATMs would replace bank tellers. But banks continue to build branches because when it comes to money, consumers still want to interact with humans. The emergence of the Internet in the late 1990s no doubt hurt older industries like department stores and newspapers. Since consumers can more efficiently buy goods or read news stories over the Internet, companies have closed stores and shrunk paper publications. But the Internet created huge demand for software engineers. For another modern example, look at the boom in television that has accompanied the rise of Netflix. If this is disruption, flush Hollywood studios are saying, give us more. And actors arent the only ones to benefit: The industry is set to create tens of thousands of well-paying jobs for camera operators, video editors and more, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics forecast. On the flip side, the Internet also means innovation can be quickly duplicated. New advances in one companys smartphone will soon be found in competing devices around the world. Perhaps thats one big reason why wages have stagnated in recent years. New products have failed to stimulate consumer demand because there are too many similar things already present or soon to appear on the market. Without consumer demand, companies have little reason to hire people or pay them more. John Williams, president of the Federal Reserve Bank in San Francisco, said only truly breakthrough technologies, like artificial intelligence, can really boost the economy over the long term in a sustainable way. Some experts predict that self-driving cars, powered by artificial intelligence, will transform the physical makeup of the city. There will be less need for large parking lots and garages because autonomous vehicles dont need to stop for long periods of time. That frees up people to redevelop real estate for housing, low-cost commercial buildings, or even public spaces. You can get all of that land back, Gorenberg the venture capitalist said. There will be a huge number of opportunities in construction to create smaller, more compact buildings in these spaces and allow people to be closer to the jobs. Another promising, underestimated technology is 3-D printing. Right now, 3-D printers can produce relatively simple things like coasters, whistles and page holders. With 3-D printing, you can make interesting, fun little structures that sit on your table, said Shane Wall, chief technology officer for HP Inc. in Palo Alto and director of the famed HP Labs. Its nice, but youre going to have to do a lot more than that. Wall envisions a time when large factories equipped with enormous 3-D printers can produce anything even cars and electronics at a fraction of todays costs. That may hurt employment in big, conventional factories overseas, but it might also eliminate the need for companies to send manufacturing jobs to those lower-wage countries in the first place. Companies can set up digital-manufacturing facilities closer to where customers actually live, further reducing costs for things like transportation and warehousing, Wall said. It will radically change where we do manufacturing, he said. The way technology is going, manufacturing will come back to the United States. And its gonna come back in a way you never thought about. Thats probably little comfort to workers today, who fear the Internet-driven economy is leaving them behind. Normally, technological changes require decades to really take effect. The Internet, however, has transformed the economy at unprecedented speed. The prospect of self-thinking computers will only turbocharge that change. In decades past, we believed that once we achieved fulfillment and success, our work was done. But the economic and sociological disruption wrought from technological advancement requires us to remain vigilant, to not take anything for granted. For its not enough to merely obtain the American dream. We must now work harder than ever to hold onto it. Thomas Lee is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist. Email: tlee@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ByTomLee This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Soon, your work space might exist all in your head. Thats because computer-enabled devices will be able to project virtual, yet fully functional, representations of present-day physical office tools a monitor, keyboard, mouse, phone, stapler, calculator, pens, paper and file cabinets within your field of view. You could have 100 screens, you could have a hologram, you could have a whiteboard, you could be talking to someone else, Michael Abrash, chief scientist for Facebooks virtual reality subsidiary Oculus, said during a conference last week. Other people could teleport in, you could teleport in to them, they could look over your shoulder. You could work together. Abrash is not alone in his vision. The architectural firm Gensler is already creating software to help it design buildings around the idea that workers wearing virtual-, augmented- or mixed-reality headsets, glasses or even contact lenses might only require an empty desk, which also could become digital eventually. It allows us to take your workplace everywhere, said Alan Robles, the firms creative media leader. It will fundamentally change the way we develop workplaces. Robles believes this way of working might arrive in as soon as three years, and no later than eight, because of rapid developments in augmented reality coming from companies like Microsoft, Google, Oculus and Meta. Ryan Pamplin, a vice president of San Mateos Meta, is already using his startups prototype augmented-reality headset every day to project his own office work space. The headgear somewhat resembles a high-tech visor, with a see-through glass screen hanging down over the eyes. It allows users to see projections of their computer screen or whatever they are working on with the computer seemingly in front of them, in three dimensions. Sensors and cameras pick up head and hand movements, allowing users to manipulate the digital images. Its not just office workers. Pamplin said hospitals and medical researchers are examining whether, for example, 3-D holographic scans of a patients brain can help with a diagnosis. And Meta has demonstrated how car designers can collaborate on a new model, or how two architects can view a 3-D version of a buildings blueprints projected in the air in front of them, as opposed to being confined to a 2-D laptop screen. Theoretically, the designers could be on opposite sides of the world and be able to collaborate on those digital designs, a scenario that would also alter the boundaries of what we now think of as a workplace, Pamplin said. Maybe that means we dont all have to go to the same place every single day, he said. You could project yourself to anywhere in the world. The ability to work anywhere could change the layout of physical offices. Instead of tethering workers to an assigned desk in a cubicle, offices might need to be redesigned to allow employees to keep moving to different areas depending on what tasks they are doing, said Devin Vermeulen, creative director of physical product for the shared-office company WeWork. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes WeWork is already using sensors and security camera footage to create data to fine-tune how, for example, the placement and height of tables hinders or encourages conversations between co-workers. How that changes in the future with virtual- or augmented-reality technology is anyones guess. But theres no doubt that office designs will adapt as technology evolves. Were scared of change, but its the only constant, Genslers Robles said. Benny Evangelista is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: bevangelista@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ChronicleBenny It didnt take long for lawyers to descend on Santa Rosa. On Monday night, Mitchell Sugarman attended a legal seminar at the Santa Rosa Hyatt that he thought would be a public service for fire victims. When he got there, he was disappointed to learn the hosts were three Southern California law firms angling to sign up clients for a potential lawsuit against Pacific Gas and Electric Co. for its possible but unproven role in the Wine Country fires. Sugarman, who lost his home in the Rincon Valley neighborhood near Santa Rosa, got the email from a neighbor, who copied other neighbors. I thought this was going to be like a public assistance type of thing: what you should be thinking about, who you should contact about this or that. Thats what the local assistance centers are doing. I knew they were lawyers, but I thought they would help you decide whether to rebuild or flee, he said. Included in the packet of information attendees received was a blank attorney-client fee agreement. The form said the client would pay one-third of any gross settlement obtained up to 30 days before the first trial date or 40 percent thereafter. Now Playing: Wine Country Fires Video: San Francisco Chronicle Sugarman left after a couple of hours. I felt vulnerable, he said. I think a lot of people there were feeling vulnerable. We all just lost our homes. Now theres this trio of guys who are standing there saying, Look, most people are underinsured and we are here to help you. John Fiske, an attorney with Baron & Budd, said at least 175 people attended the event, which his firm sponsored along with two others, Dixon Diab & Chambers and Singleton Law Firm. The firms, which advertise as California Fire Lawyers, are planning another such event next week. Fiske said the seminar absolutely violates no ethical rules. I would take major exception to anyone who suggests it does. California law prohibits lawyers from soliciting clients at an accident scene, a hospital, or on the way to a hospital; soliciting clients who, due to their physical, emotional or mental state, may not have reasonable judgment about hiring an attorney; and seeking employment by mail unless the letter and envelope are clearly labeled as an advertisement, according to the State Bar of California. Emergency situation or not, lawyers generally cannot solicit new clients face to face or over the phone. They can advertise, as long as their advertising is not deceptive or misleading, said James Ham, a lawyer in South Pasadena who represents lawyers and provides legal compliance advice. If lawyers come into a community, announce they are going to hold a seminar or presentation ... if the public voluntarily comes, there is nothing wrong with that, Ham said. The email Sugarman received promised that experienced wildfire attorneys would discuss insurance claims, Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance, potential litigation and other topics, and then said: After a brief presentation, attorneys and former insurance professionals will be available for one-on-one sessions to answer any questions. At the seminar, the attorneys provided only general information about FEMA programs and said they would not represent anyone in claims against insurance companies, Sugarman said. They talked about suing PG&E and the company PG&E subcontracts with for tree work, Sugarman said. The attorneys would represent fire victims under a mass tort, which is an alternative to a class-action suit, where many plaintiffs individually sue the same or several defendants. Fiske said the event was an information meeting for folks who have suffered a loss in order to help them navigate what to do next. He said he cant get into too much detail because some attendees are now clients or potential clients and he owes them a duty of confidentiality. We did have several people retain our firm for purposes of investigating the cause of the fire and recovering uninsured portions of their losses, Fiske said. There is a likelihood PG&E could be responsible for some of the fires. Fiske said the event was requested by community leaders who asked the law firms to put together an invitation for people they knew. We sent it to maybe three people total, but the email was shared widely. He would not name the community leaders. The law firms paid for the event. We were expecting maybe 30. When we saw over 175, we were surprised, Fiske said. Sugarman said the room appeared to be set up for a couple hundred at least. There was food and drinks for a couple hundred people. It was kind of nice food. Served banquet style, it included a variety of cheeses, sliced beef and roasted vegetables. Bruce Budner, who teaches law ethics at UC Berkeley Law School, said that without seeing the invitation or knowing what was said at the event, its impossible to say whether the firms acted unethically. But he hasnt heard anything that suggests they did. We have to distinguish between bad taste and unethical. Sure, the timing of this may put some people off. Maybe for good reason, Budner said. If he were defending the firms in the court of public opinion, I might say sure, this may seem premature to some, but the sooner a lawsuit gets filed, the sooner evidence can be protected. On Tuesday, the Santa Monica law firm Robins Cloud filed a lawsuit against PG&E in Superior Court in San Francisco on behalf of Wayne and Jennifer Horvell, who lost their home in Santa Rosa. It alleges that PG&E failed to properly maintain power lines and properly trim vegetation so when the two came in contact, it sparked the Wine Country fires. This is one of thousands of individual cases that will be filed, attorney Bill Robins said. We expect to file a bunch more. We want to make sure evidence is preserved. PG&E said it is focused on supporting firefighting efforts to contain the fires and protect life and property. Once it is safe to do so, restoring power and gas service safely and as quickly as possible will be our priority. We arent going to speculate about any of the causes of the fires and will cooperate with the reviews by any relevant regulator or agency. Kathleen Pender is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist. Email: kpender@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kathpender Where fire victims can get legal help A coalition of private and public legal organizations have created a hotline to provide legal aid to California fire victims on subjects such as landlord-tenant issues; life, medical and property insurance; emergency aid applications; home repairs; mortgages; and document replacement. The number is (415) 575-3120. Additional fire-related resources can be found on the State Bars website: www.calbar.ca.gov Napa County victims can also call Bay Area Legal Aids Legal Advice Hotline, (800) 551-5554. Napa and Sonoma county residents with questions about medical and prescription coverage can call the Healthcare Consumer Centers line, (855) 693-7285. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Attorneys in San Francisco on Monday began questioning prospective jurors for one of San Franciscos most notorious murder cases: the killing of 32-year-old Kate Steinle by an undocumented homeless man. Its a widely discussed case that President Trump used in his campaign to argue that Americans have been unsafe due to lax immigration enforcement in San Francisco and other sanctuary cities. Prosecutors and defense attorneys are seeking to impanel a group of people who can look beyond the political implications of the case and decide, on the facts alone, the fate of Jose Ines Garcia Zarate, a Mexican citizen who was wanted for deportation by federal agents when his San Francisco jailers set him free 2 months before the shooting. He is accused of firing a gun on Pier 14 on July 1, 2015. The single bullet pierced Steinles back as she took a stroll with her arm around her father. Police arrested Zarate, who previously went by the name Juan Francisco Lopez Sanchez, and he admitted handling the gun that fired the round. Would anyone here be unwilling to return a verdict if they knew the president of the United States wouldnt like it? Matt Gonzalez, an attorney for Zarate, asked prospective jurors who packed the sweltering courtroom. Some laughed, though some uneasily, at Gonzalezs remark. Zarate had been on track for a sixth deportation after serving 46 months in prison for felony re-entry into the country. The case sparked a push against the policies that enabled his release, with the House of Representatives passing Kates Law in June legislation that would significantly boost punishment for people who repeatedly enter the U.S. illegally. San Francisco has fought back, saying sanctuary laws benefit public safety by ensuring that immigrants, including witnesses to crimes, feel comfortable working with authorities. On Monday, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Samuel K. Feng told the prospective jurors that sanctuary city policies would not be an issue that would be decided in this case, and Assistant District Attorney Diana Garcia began her questioning by stating that she was the daughter of Spanish-speaking immigrants. A lot of you are angry that this has been used to promote a political agenda that you do not agree with, she said. Im here to tell you that that will not be a part of the case. While both the prosecution and the defense were adamant that Zarates immigration status would play no role in the case, their questions indicated that the issue of gun control will arise during trial. The gun used in Steinles killing had been stolen from a U.S. Bureau of Land Management rangers car four days earlier in the city, and Zarate, who was homeless, said he found the weapon wrapped in a T-shirt under a bench, according to his attorneys. The burglary remains unsolved. His attorneys say the shooting was an accident, with the bullet ricocheting off the ground before striking Steinle. Gonzalez had previously implied that he planned to call several gun experts to testify that the .40-caliber Sig Sauer semiautomatic pistol used in the shooting was prone to accidental discharges. The Bureau of Land Management ranger who owned the gun is scheduled to testify. Prosecutors charged Zarate with second-degree murder because he either aimed the gun at Steinle or recklessly fired the weapon in a crowded area. On Monday, Garcia noted that most of the prospective jurors stated on their questionnaires that they were anti-gun, with one going so far as saying that law enforcement shouldnt even be allowed to carry firearms. 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. Beyond the gun, Garcias and Gonzalezs questions highlighted their concerns about the case. Garcia asked the prospective jurors if they felt they could decide a case where there are no eyewitnesses to the shooting itself, while Gonzalez asked if they could look past the emotional component that Steinle was an innocent bystander who essentially died in the arms of her father. Does anyone here believe that if someone died innocently that someone has to be punished for it? he asked. The questioning of jurors continues Tuesday. Vivian Ho is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: vho@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @VivianHo While the fires raged last week in Wine Country and beyond, creating unimaginable devastation and suffering, another story shared the headlines that created a different kind of unimaginable scenario. Harvey Weinstein, the rich and powerful film mogul, was accused by numerous women, including several prominent actresses, of being a sexual predator. He immediately was fired from the firm he co-founded, and was declared a national disgrace by practically everyone. He joined comedian Bill Cosby, Fox News founder Roger Ailes, Fox News host Bill OReilly and real estate developer and reality TV host Donald Trump in the category of famous men who lost their jobs and their dignity as the result of unwanted sexual advances on women over the years. All of them vehemently denied culpability, but the evidence was overwhelming. Hence, their lives were ruined. Oh, wait. My mistake. Donald Trump was elected president of the United States. Unimaginable. Im not talking about politics, or issues. Those subjects are for another day. Im talking about how some people can be rightfully outraged by Weinsteins behavior and yet can conveniently forget or ignore that the occupant of the Oval Office is accused of similar behavior. At least 15 women have publicly come forward and claimed Trump engaged in nonconsensual kissing and/or groping of breasts, buttocks and genitalia. Much like Cosby, Weinstein, Ailes and OReilly, intimate detail of the incidents was given. Trump called them all liars and threatened to sue, which he never did. And then there was the tape. I was driving on the freeway on Oct. 7, 2016, when I heard the recorded conversation of Trump telling Billy Bush (who lost his job and reputation for participating) that a celebrity like himself can just start kissing them ... I dont even wait, can grab em by the p. I was absolutely convinced that was the end of his campaign. No one could survive such vulgar behavior, especially on the national stage. After listening to that tape, does anyone believe Trump did not engage in the acts he is accused of by 15 independent women who came forward with intimate details of their encounters with the future president of the United States? Does anyone believe that 15 women, including mothers, businesswomen, journalists, authors and Miss USA contestants, ALL blatantly lied through their teeth? I hope not. Its no wonder Trump has an ego the size of Montana. The man thinks hes invincible, and he has every reason to think so. While Cosby, Ailes, OReilly and Weinstein slinked away in disgrace and have been vilified by the public and the press, Trump skates free. Thats the unimaginable scenario Im talking about. Trump believes he can say or do anything his heart desires, and hell get away with it. He can call the leader of North Korea Little Rocket Man, and get away with it. He can challenge his secretary of state to an IQ test and get away with it. He can lie about Mexico paying for his wall and get away with it. Do we want a president who thinks hes invincible? I find that concept very frightening. A commander-in-chief who believes he can do no wrong, who believes every decision he makes is the correct one, who believes he is the master of the universe his comeuppance is inevitably right around the corner. When that tape was released, and when those 15 women stepped forward, Trump should have been relegated to the same misfortune that befell Cosby, Ailes, OReilly and Weinstein. Instead, he miraculously weathered the storm and got elected president. Unimaginable. I understand the politics. I understand the hatred of Hillary Clinton, the need of some people for change. What I dont understand is how anyone could have voted for someone who so blatantly and wrongfully called 15 strong-willed women liars. I realize this is old news. Maybe its the sadness of the wildfires that got me all worked up. More likely, it was the publics and the medias hysteria of Weinsteins exploits that brought back the memories of Trump surviving what no one should survive. Now weve got a president who understandably thinks hes invincible. Theres no doubt he will take it a step further and convince himself the United States is invincible. Perhaps hell be eager to show North Korea or Iran that both he and our country can survive anything. How scary is that? Nick Hoppes column appears Tuesdays in Datebook. Email: nickhoppe61@gmail.com Stannous Flouride, long a historian/town crier/bard of the Haight-Ashbury, emailed to praise Sunshine Powers, owner of Love on Haight, a tie-dye-centric store at Haight and Masonic. She and her many volunteers, most young Deadheads and hippies, including many of the street kids indigenous to the Haight, have sent eight or nine truckloads of collected clothes, bedding, shoes and lots of pet food to Santa Rosa. Flourides description was understated. On Monday, Oct. 16, a week after the start of the fires, Powers said shed awakened the Monday before and saw what was going on ... and I posted we would take donations. She was overwhelmed by the response. Two parking spots in front of the store were turned into donation drop-off places. Five loads of donations had been sent off by 3 p.m. the day we talked, which was a week after the start of the donation drive. She and a group of volunteers had sent over 100 loads, in two party buses, a 26-foot truck, two 24-foot trucks, trucks with trailers, regular trucks, about 30 Sprinter vans and many carloads. Among their deliveries, a few hundred pairs of brand-new Allbirds shoes that were delivered on a party bus that said Twerkalator on its side. What I think I like most, Flouride wrote in the email, is that its almost all folks under 30. I have jumped in a couple of times, but there are almost no veterans of the 60s involved. It gives this increasingly gray-haired old freak real hope for the future. One reason for that is that Powers is on the board of Taking It to the Streets, a nonprofit that aims to help street people turn their lives around and to foster conversation among the homeless youths, local residents and the merchant community. Most of those kids, many of whom have worked from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., are beneficiaries of the foundation. I didnt expect it to be so big, said Powers, but its pretty amazing, the power of our community. Imagine what we could do every day with the power of this effort. The Chronicles Caroline Grannan cites a friends report that she saw a driverless car get honked at for stopping too long at a stop sign. Discuss among yourselves the prospect of road rage between driverless cars. Sign Erik Wilson noticed affixed to a road sign at the Ninth Street off-ramp of Highway 101: Nicht Mein Fuhrer. In a recent Chronicle edition, William Rodarmor read the news story of the Catholic priest who resigned from his position as head of the Legion of Christ seminar in Rome after it was disclosed that he had fathered two children. I assume its so he can spend more time with his family, says Rodarmor. The latest edition of Brian McMullens Periodical Catalog of Unregistered Domain Names reveals that if you act now, theres still time to grab happyjudge.com, boredomworld.com and yuckyporn.com. As the gang gathered round in the Wilsey Center for Margaret Jenkins Dance Companys two-part performance Friday, Oct. 13, you couldnt help noticing how mixed it was: gray heads with hipsters, stalwart company supporters with newcomers. The second performance, Skies Calling Skies Fall, seemed to underline that concept: Male and female dancers wore the same costumes, white with flowing skirts that flared as they whirled. In front of a giant screen and on the surface of a floor on which video taken by a drone projected images from overhead and at ground level, the dancers spun. Men twirled and women lifted, and they were equal, as their movements demonstrated. The performance took your breath away, as though you could feel the breeze made by their skirts. We spent the afternoon on Saturday, Oct. 14, at Berkeley Rep seeing Daniel Handlers play Imaginary Comforts or the Story of the Ghost of the Dead Rabbit. The playwright himself has achieved major success with his novels for adults and books for young people (the Lemony Snicket series). This play is about stories and storytelling, but what stuck with me was that despite the authors personal success, the play demonstrates his compassion for ordinary folks, people at the bottom of their fields and smart enough to know it. Handler became famous writing about a series of unfortunate events, but here, hes turned to writing about the real-life version of gothic horror: everyday disappointment. Leah Garchik is open for business in San Francisco, (415) 777-8426. Email: lgarchik@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @leahgarchik Public Eavesdropping In my house, everyone brings their own toilet paper. Man to man, overheard at Luckys by Nancy Miller I remember the first time I saw my father. It was summer. I was 5 years old. My mother had just given me a bath in a tin tub outside our one-bedroom casita and I was sitting on the hood of her 76 Buick Regal. Even though I had never seen him in person before, I had seen photos of him, so I recognized him from the moment I laid eyes on him He asked my mother if he could take me out for an hour. She agreed. He bought me an ice cream from a truck and then we went over to Mrs. Jones house, around the corner from my moms. I sat at her kitchen table and my dad disappeared into the back room with his childhood friend until we left. When he dropped me off, he said, Ill call you tomorrow. But he never did. It was then that I understood that people often use food to lessen the blow. People often hide themselves, just as much as they reveal themselves, in food. People use food for distraction. If you were in my family, anger would be answered with a phrase like shut up and eat this. If there was something to celebrate, maybe it was Congratulations! Lets eat out! For sadness: Im sorry for your loss. I brought this. Every emotion is tied to eating. The second time I saw my father I was 10. It was summer. He and my mother met up at a safe public space and exchanged me like a delivery boy exchanges money for goods. My father was supposed to have me for an hour, but 30 minutes into it he dropped me off at my grandmas house. When he dropped me off, he said, Ill call you tomorrow. But he never did. My primo-hermano (cousin) was a young terror. He was 8 years old and had never met his mother because she was in prison. He lived with my grandmother and never did anything she told him to do. I always did everything she told me to do. But not on the day my father dropped me off. I ate my feelings. My primo-hermano convinced me to conquer the hierarchy of apartment-project heathens on top of the neighbors fence so that I could grab the juiciest of sun-warmed mulberries. My Falstaffian physique blocked most kids from crawling over me while one of my chubby hands grasped the fence and the other picked the supreme berries and handed them down to my cousin. My cousin stood there with the bottom of his shirt cupped in to hold the berries; ringworm in his hair, skinny legs ashy beyond recognition. I lost myself in the eating of those mulberries until it became the day that I ate taboo mulberries, and not the day I was denied love from my estranged father. And when my grandma shouted for the both of us, we showed up on her doorstep, assuring her we had not been in the mulberry tree the byzantine purple splotches and stains on our clothing, fingertips and faces betraying us. The third time I saw my father I was 15. It was summer. I was an out-of-control teenager living with my friend whose family was from Laos. My single mother, who worked full time, couldnt handle me. I asked if I could live in the fantasy world where my father existed. She called him and he came to pick me up. He brought me to his house, where I realized he had moved on and created another family. He was having a birthday party for his 1-year-old daughter and his 11-year-old daughter. He sent me to the park alone with the kids. This was not what I was expecting. The whole time I kept thinking how he didn't want the responsibility of raising a child in me, but only four years later he decided he did? When he dropped me off, he said, Ill call you tomorrow. But he never did. I went inside my friends house and ate a big bowl of pho the biggest bowl of pho. I placed my face directly over the bowl and inhaled the hot, rich broth. Everything went into the bowl: basil, bean sprouts, thinly sliced onion, bright green lime until it was punchy, Sriracha until it was spicy. I feverishly shoved meatballs and rare flank steak into my mouth and slurped the noodles until it became the day I ate the best bowl of pho. And not the day I was denied love from my estranged father. The fourth time I saw my father I was 20. It was summer. I ran into him and a woman in the grocery store. He had just gotten out of court-ordered rehab. He gave me his card, some 12-step rigamarole and told me to call him. I said, Ill call you tomorrow. And I never did. And I didnt need to eat afterwards. Because it was the day that I denied my love to my estranged father. Illyanna Maisonet is a first-generation Puerto Rican and a cook. She sometimes writes about food, too. Twitter: @eatgordaeat Email: food@sfchronicle.com Like all bad news concerning my family, it began with a call from my mother. My ba noi had died. She was 96. She couldve been 97 or 98, though our ages were never certain; birth dates were changed during war and migration. She was my last surviving grandparent and she took with her 96 (or 97 or 98) years of history, countless stories and memories that I will never know. I didnt want to forget her. Every time I visited her, I promised myself that we would spend more time together, record our conversations, record her life. I am a liar. Already her face was fading. By the time I got to my childhood home in Cape Cod, my parents were already packed, their passports ready. My parents are efficient travelers, but only for Vietnam. They know no other country. I spent part of my childhood in a Vietnamese refugee camp in the Philippines, where my father had a hu tieu nam vang stand, where my parents would save their change to buy an apple and feed it to me before eating what was left of it themselves. I won a childrens beauty pageant there, a refugee queen if you will. The missionary judges must have been charmed by my odd answers when I told them my favorite food was sucking on chicken bones. (Some things dont change I still love chicken bones.) Every year or two, my parents made the voyage back to Vietnam, a place they left behind a lifetime ago. They would share a small carry-on bag while maxing out their check-ins with candy, cigarettes, Spam, Vienna sausages, medicine and Tiger Balm for relatives. Whether it was generosity or guilt, it didnt matter. This is what you do when youre the ones who make it out. In the 24 hours following my ba nois death, I retraced the steps of my migration from Cape Cod, where I was visiting my parents for Thanksgiving, to my current home in San Francisco, where I collect my passport, and then across the vast Pacific to Saigon. I will never call it by any other name. After my parents picked me up from the airport, I took them to a prominent Saigon food stall for lunch on our way to the village where my ba noi was to be buried. That day, Co Thanh was serving bun moc, a pork and mushroom-based noodle soup with cha lua and pork-paste balls. My parents proclaimed it good, but once we drove away the good turned into OK and even the driver said hed had a richer broth elsewhere. My dad continued to throw shade, claiming that he was a better cook. I choked on my next words. I only know how to speak to my parents in criticisms because thats all I knew growing up: Ba, you couldve been successful if you didnt have a bad menu, I retorted. Our food banter was a reminder of my dads failed take-out joint in America. Bens Asian Cuisine served Cape Cods first bowl of pho a belief Im going to keep repeating until someone proves me wrong. There, he also served egg rolls, fried rice, crab rangoons, lo mein and eventually Japanese teriyaki, co-opting the Akita Express brand, a chain of restaurants in the South. Once, a young boy came up to me and said righteously, I know what an A kita is. Theyre dogs. You guys serve dogs here. That was right before he screamed They sell dog meat! throughout the food court. Afterward I anxiously looked up akita on our AOL Web browser . A year later, the restaurant folded as my fathers health deteriorated from the stress and disappointment. We were refugees in America, but we never found refuge here. We did, however, find coping mechanisms. My mother obsessively cleans our house, because its the only one shell ever own. My father found the ocean and fishing has become his lifeline. These days, he follows no other schedule but the tides. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. And I found distance, until I am brought back. In Vietnam, I stood at my grandmothers grave as they lowered her body into the ground. I thought about the mornings my father would spend with ba noi, encouraging and sometimes forcing her to eat. When he was with her, he would prepare elaborate meals, from traditional Vietnamese ca kho to, canh chua, bun rieu, bo kho to adapted dishes like clam chowder, stuffed crabs, sauteed ginger lobster, even spaghetti. When he was away, he would send instructions to my aunties and money to buy ingredients. Make sure she eats, hed say. My father loved us the way he loved my ba noi. Make sure she eats it was the only way he knew how; it was the only way we learned how. Weeks later, Im standing knee deep in a chilly tributary of the Atlantic, alongside my father and mother. Hes raking the rocky bottom for oysters. He cracks open a shell, rinses it and hands it to my mother. She squeezes a lemon and Sriracha over the exposed body. Eat, they say, and I obediently oblige. Thuy Tran is a Bay Area artist and associate producer of public programs at the JCCSF. When shes not eating, shes writing and acting with her Asian American female comedy sketch group, Granny Cart Gangstas. Email: food@sfchronicle.com On my first morning working at Ryans Restaurant in the Castro, Bryan announced that 10 years seniority gave him radio rights, which meant the modern country station. Great, I thought. Start cooking at the gayest restaurant in the gayest neighborhood in the country, and Im going to spend eight hours a day listening to Shania Freaking Twain. I showed up for my first shift at Ryans in 1995, at the age of 24, with a set of knives I had bought with the next-to-last paycheck from my first real job after college. The research firm that employed me as an admin assistant did fascinating work. I didnt. A future spent making copies and formatting proposals made me twitchy and morose. I knew I wanted to do something outside the Financial District, to make things, maybe to have a slash profession: musician/accountant, winemaker/professor. In those days, before I discovered I could write, the first part of the slash meant learning to cook the food I read about in magazines and spent my salary on. I still missed the chaotic thrum of the restaurants that had paid my rent all through college in Minnesota. Right out of college, a few sous-chefs I consulted for advice told me that I should skip culinary school and invest in knives. Youll learn everything else you need on the job, they said. So I looked for a chef who would hire me, even at minimum wage, and found her at a 14-year-old restaurant whose brunch my friends adored. I took the job in defiance of a previous vow: that I would never cook professionally again. Stephanie Maze/San Francisco Chronicle The night before I started my supposedly last kitchen job at a high-volume Italian restaurant in St. Paul, the friend who recruited me issued a warning, his tone both studied and offhand, as if it were a detail that had slipped his mind. The cooks are really homophobic, Irv cautioned, so I told them all that you were gay and you were my friend, and they better not start anything with you. Turned out, Irv had enough charisma that they didnt. They did mock all the gay waiters who passed through the kitchen while I bent my head over the salad station, pretending to ignore them. When all the other cooks were on break, the pasta guy would retreat to the opposite side of the hot line rather than talk to me. After four months, and a fryer accident that splattered second-degree burns across my cheeks, I quit. Nothing about the kitchen felt safe. What churned at me was my own willingness to shut up, to look past the cooks snide comments and subtle snubs. Hadnt I come out at 16, in Indiana? On the campus of my liberal arts college, wasnt I the one who treated gender like a set of T-shirts I could shimmy in and out of at will? Fueled by punk bands and Queer Nation chants, didnt I stride around the dorm in a skirt and wear earrings that brushed my shoulders? Yet I also knew that my sanctuary extended only three square blocks, and just how flimsy its protections were. At least once a month, some car would drive on campus and a head would lean out to scream Faggot! I got lucky. The cars never stopped. The Twin Cities was one of the most liberal cities in the country. And yet as soon as I graduated, it felt safer to move to San Francisco, at the height of the AIDS epidemic, than stay in the Midwest. I came to San Francisco not to be gay I could be gay in the Midwest but to be more than gay: to be someone who danced at queer indie clubs and searched for the Missions best pupusa and preferred Bjork to Cher and read Nabokov with friends. I came here, back when it seemed like the most likely place to kill a young gay man, because it was the city where I felt most alive. AIDS had defined my queerness since before I knew I was queer. I was 10 when the news stories about GRID Gay-Related Immune Disorder first reached Indiana. There was no Internet, no Will & Grace and very few out public figures. I sometimes wondered whether that awful junior high joke was true: What does Gay mean? Got AIDS Yet? By the early 1990s, retrovirals like AZT were delaying the onset of Kaposis sarcoma and the host of illnesses with acronyms we had all memorized, but for too many San Franciscans, they had come too late. As my friend Lon recently wrote, moving to San Francisco then was like setting up home in the crater from a bomb you narrowly escaped. I felt lucky and guilty for being born in 1971. Men 30 years older than me had endured police raids and ostracism to a degree I would never feel. Men 10 years older than me were dying, or watching all their friends die. To be 23, and healthy, felt like I had been given a sacred charge to be happy, to demonstrate to all those car-screamers in the Midwest, not to mention my worried parents, that none of them could predict my fate. It was electrifying to be in San Francisco, too, at a moment when the power of the LGBT community was so evident ACT UPs brazen and effective protests, the hundreds of nonprofits we had collectively formed, the height of New Queer Cinema and even, more intimately, the care circles many formed to ease their friends into death. Yet we young gay men, settling into our crater, also absorbed another, tacit message from HIV-prevention posters: to seek love meant baiting the plague. Friends we could trust, lovers we shouldnt. Friends visiting San Francisco from other cities called the Castro the Gay Disneyland. To me, the Castros vision of what it meant to be gay felt ossified and tattered, formed in the hedonistic 1970s and almost destroyed by the 1980s. I came to the neighborhood for movies and bookstore readings, but never on a Saturday night. So it was ironic, and another stroke of luck, that I found a job there. Ryans, on 18th Street around the corner from Castro Street, was housed in a three-story Victorian. Downstairs, at the half-basement level, was a deli with prepared salads, charcuterie and the slowest sandwich-making station in town. Slow mostly because Dan, the head of the deli, was such a profligate gossip and when Dan wasnt around, none of us could approach his skill. On the middle floor was a tiny bar and waiting room, as well as the kitchen and a hidden back patio. The dining room, a warren of former bedrooms, could be found up another flight. Lenore and Michael Ryan had opened the restaurant in 1980 and it had hit its peak in the mid- to late-1980s. After 14 years, the restaurant was still beloved in the neighborhood for Lenores orange-scented jambalaya, her chocolate pudding cake, her elaborate brunches and Lenore herself. Canary-blonde, buxom, beautiful more precisely, gaw-juss she would faux-scandalize diners with a lascivious crack or envelop them into a pillowy hug. Gay men instantly fell for her. Lenore hired me to work in the mornings with Bryan, prepping salads for the deli, and to step onto the hot line on weekends for brunch and join her catering crew. Ryans menu wasnt the greatest food Id ever tasted, but it had its heights. By the time I had memorized the words to Garth Brooks greatest hits, Bryan had taught me how to make ethereal bread pudding and turn a bunch of scallions into green threads in just a few seconds. I could whisk together an unctuous hollandaise and mix cream biscuits whose recipe I still kick myself for forgetting. Lenore soon gave me control of the Saturday brunch specials, then promoted me to dinner service. The gayest restaurant in the gayest neighborhood in the world was staffed by an extended family of Jaliscans, mostly straight, and LGBT immigrants from places like my hometown. All of us in the latter camp were just looking for a job that let us be gay, and more than gay. As a sanctuary, it was far from ideal, but surrounded by a crew of outcasts, it felt safe enough, and safe enough would have to do. For a few months, while I scuffed up my new knives and learned the choreography of Ryans dinner menu, I got to be the worlds gayest cook. I would holler Princess at all the servers and return waiterly shade so fierce it would have hobbled a strongman. We used camp to soften the sting of our insults, and used the sting to keep our defenses from softening. After work, we would trek over to the Pilsner for drinks, me smelling like chicken juices and oxidized garlic. Ryans was also where I learned that, underneath the sickness and the sex, the Castro was more than Gay Disneyland. Id spend a few hours in the deli, spelling Dan, and meet local merchants and neighbors. People who lived in the Castro, it turned out, wanted to belong to a place that was alive to their presence. The aspect of restaurant work I had always loved was the camaraderie of the staff. I learned that, especially in long-running restaurants like Ryans, the camaraderie extended to patrons as well. Sunday brunch and the occasional 800-person event could still turn Ryans kitchen into an adrenaline corral, but by 1996 the restaurant was tired. The dining room chairs looked like theyd been strafed by pellet guns, and the saucepans were permanently, thickly covered in carbon. Catering kept the business alive, but the Ryans were weary of owning a restaurant. Michael confided to me once that they had also grown weary of death both customers and staff. Bryan developed lung cancer during my year and moved to Ohio to die. HIV had hacked the fat off another co-worker, Tom, but had left him sturdy enough to care for his best friend, who grew more shambling over the year, barely able to wheel his oxygen tank down the street to visit the restaurant, until he died, too. In the fall of 1996, 10 months after I started, the Ryans sold the business to a wealthy patron who had never worked in the food industry but loved the idea of owning a restaurant. We greeted the news as a betrayal. Lenore could assure us as much as she wanted, but we all knew that when the soul of a place departs, the body is soon to follow. When I think of those last couple of months at Ryans, when we all waited for it to die, one night comes to the fore. For decades, in fact, it was the only memory of that year I held at the ready: the night I realized the world had just changed. Two waiters wandered into the kitchen to pick up their orders. So he began taking this mix of drugs hes calling a cocktail, one told the other. One minute hes on deaths door, and the next, hes gained weight, his T-cells have gone up. He looks almost normal. For 15 years, AIDS had been equated with certain death. Retroviral cocktails would change what it meant to have HIV even more broadly, what it meant to be a gay man. By the winter of that year, I was working at another restaurant with a pack of burly straight guys who didnt give a damn who I slept with as long as my risottos got to the window in time. In exchange, I feyed down. I barked out orders. My shoulders and hips stiffened up. At times, it felt as comfortable as a wool caftan on bare skin, but I liked them, this new crew, and my new chef was turning me into the cook I wanted to be. Reports from Ryans were filtering back: The new owners were running the restaurant into the ground. The Castro, meanwhile, was coming back to life. Jonathan Kauffman is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jkauffman@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @jonkauffman. At the end of a typically madcap episode of Seth Rudetskys online series Obsessed! the reigning Mayor of Broadway accompanies Tony Award-winning Jessie Mueller on a kaleidoscopic vocal tour touching on several of her signature roles. While singing Carole Kings Beautiful for 80 dizzying seconds, Mueller shape-shifts back and forth among The Mystery of Edwin Droods Indian-accented Helena Landless to On a Clear Day You Can See Forevers finger-snapping jazz chanteuse Melinda Wells to the pure soprano of Into the Woods Cinderella to the throaty pop crooning of Carole King. She even offers a couple of lines with her own uninflected, warmly expressive sound, one of Broadways glories. That video is not made up! She just does everything, and whatever shes singing shes at the top of her game, says the excitable Rudetsky, whos become a source for Broadway shenanigans onstage and off, where he hosts the Sirius/XM Satellite Radios On Broadway. Theyll be covering a lot of the same territory but at a considerably more leisurely pace Thursday, Oct. 19, when Mueller and Rudetsky kick off Mark Cortales 2017-18 Broadway @ Herbst concert series benefiting Project Open Hand, San Francisco Gay Mens Chorus and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Bay Area audiences got a chance to get acquainted with Mueller during her long 2013 Curran Theatre run in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, the role for which she won a rare trifecta, taking home Tony, Drama Desk and Grammy awards. She could rely on Kings hit-laden songbook alone for a satisfying show, but Rudetsky revels in Muellers ability to inhabit so many different characters. Its a safe bet that theyll include Sara Bareilles She Used to Be Mine. Delivered at the climax of the hit show Waitress by the titular server Jenna Hunterson a role that Mueller originated on Broadway, earning Tony, Drama Desk and Grammy award nominations the melancholic tour de force has become a signature Mueller song. Were definitely pulling out some things Ive done from Waitress and Beautiful, says the 34-year-old. But I get to play off of Seth. He throws things out to you, and you dont have time to worry that youre not going to get it right. Its an opportunity to crack it all open and do things I havent done in years. Mueller first joined forces with Rudetsky onstage last month in Provincetown, Mass., and has occasionally collaborated with colleagues in concerts, but shes a novice when it comes to performing out of character. The Herbst performance represents a baby step toward finding my own voice and how I interpret a song, she says. The people I know who do it well just live in each song. Music opens up so many different options. Growing up in an esteemed Chicago-area theatrical family, Mueller absorbed the manifold possibilities of vocal invention as a child who loved to mimic people, she says. I was always fascinated by accents and people who didnt sound like me. Eventually it transferred over to singing, inventing how a character speaks and how they sing. Mueller is getting set to add some new characters to her menagerie. In April, shes returning to Broadway for a revival of Carousel at the Imperial Theatre, portraying the role of Julie Jordan (she did an award-winning turn as Carousels Carrie Pipperidge a decade ago in Chicago). And this December shes making her feature film debut in Steven Spielbergs historical drama The Post, about the Pentagon Papers-era Washington Post, playing advice columnist Judith Miss Manners Martin alongside Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks (as Katherine Graham and Ben Bradlee, respectively). It was such a joyous experience, she says about working on the movie. I dont know what I was expecting, but everyone was so kind of welcoming. I loved doing the detective work of playing a real person. Andrew Gilbert is a freelance writer. Jessie Mueller: 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19. $50-$150. Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave., S.F. www.markcortalepresents.com To see Jessie Mueller on an episode of Obsessed!: https://youtu.be/EiHMQZolRVI Ai Weiwei, the 60-year-old Chinese artist who has long been an activist thorn in the side of his countrys political leadership, has acquired international celebrity largely by making a career of honoring others. His 2014 San Francisco exhibition, @Large: Ai Weiwei on Alcatraz, which focused on incarceration policies around the world, drew nearly 900,000 visitors in its seven-month run. Now, Ai has produced an epic documentary film, nearly 2 hours long, drawing sympathetic attention to the circumstances of some 65 million refugees across the globe. Human Flow opens in San Francisco on Friday, Oct. 20. The Chronicle spoke with Ai Weiwei in San Francisco before the screening. This interview has been edited for length. Q. Whats the question that no one has asked you, but that you wish someone had asked about this film? A. I think the question would be, were living in the 21st century. And I think that as humans we are already, maybe, at the most prosperous or have the highest self-confidence. And also, quite possibly, we already see the end is coming. ... We all live on this planet. Planet Earth. And that planet is so singled out from the rest of the planets. We know that (another planet) is cold or its hot, or it is not a condition that has life or species like us. But we are not so appreciative. We are not even just celebrating life itself. It creates so much difference, it is so difficult for (other) human beings. And it leaves them in unthinkable conditions. It is very crude and it shows how primitive we can be. So, that is very hard to accept, actually. We really have to speak out, yell out, for certain ideas or ideologies. Q. How long have you worked on this film? A. If you are talking about (when) I had a consciousness to make this film, its about a year. But the postproduction takes about half a year, and the distribution and promotion take another half. In this period of time, we already did about 20 museum shows ... I mean, big shows, that take the whole museum. And of course I did hundreds of interviews. Q. Why do you do all that? You dont need more fame. You dont need more money. A. I dont need anything. I just want to burn myself out. Its life; you better use it. Its the way we celebrate our life. ... I have to get out of myself, get myself into unfamiliar situations. That is the way of learning, that is the way of experiencing yourself, and its a challenge. It sounds stupid, but in that way I feel life itself. Fresh. Q. You were the director; you did a number of the interviews. ... What would you say your most important role was in this? A. How I function in this film, first, is the understanding about what we are doing. And the scale of the film. And possible language of how to structure this film ... because you have to define the language. We know we all tell the same story: Its about human tragedy. It is on the news all the time. But how to come out with a film that still has its own integrity and which argues (for) its own existence? Q. Im going to make an assumption, which may be wrong, that you dont have a lot of experience at filmmaking. A. I never had experience with this kind of commercial type. But I do have a lot of experience in architecture, which is very much like film. Everything is concept, design, fabrication and furnishing. As someone very experienced in journalism, in China, I ended up doing a lot of films to put on the Internet: investigations, quick response. I did at least 20 documentaries and put them on the Internet. The next day, millions of people watch it in China. That is why Internet is so dangerous ... because that kind of truth-telling really challenges everybodys nerves when they watch it. So, yeah, I am quite experienced about how to achieve a visual language to reach the audience. Q. Its long, the film. A. Its long, but it is too short for this kind of story. ... Doing this film gave me a chance to get knowledge. My knowledge about refugees or human flow was from zero. Because China was a society, where I grew up, of frozen human beings. Restrictions are characteristic of this kind of authoritarian society. They always tell you you cannot do this, you cannot do that. People take it as part of nature. Like, today is rainy, tomorrow is cloudy. Now it can be a sunny day. This is the general condition; everybody understands that. Among this 65 million, people have been forced to leave their home. That means if they dont leave they will die. The casualties will not be just a few hundred thousand, it will be 60-some million people, just dead. Because it is not just their house being bombed; the whole city disappeared. Those images, you would never believe. Only in Hollywood movies, and they still cannot capture that kind of thing, you know. But we see it before breakfast, or when we drive to work, and we forget about it because we have other agendas to do. It is very interesting how our human emotions and logic are designed. It is like a huge computer: emotion, rationality, logic. It purposely can be cut off from one another. It protects us not to get crazy or mad. Q. I thought refugees were poverty-stricken. But then you have the scene where theres the generator running, and everybody has got their smartphones plugged in. Are most of the refugees middle class? 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. A. If you are talking about refugees from Syria, they are middle class. They can pay thousands of dollars for smugglers, and they have a vision about where they want to go. Many of them are engineers, doctors, lawyers, professionals. The first one I interviewed, I still remember. A young guy from Afghanistan, speaks seven languages. So he became a translator for the film, working with my studio for a year just translating everything. But for certain places, if you look at what happened in Myanmar and Bangladesh, those people before they lost their home (now it is a half-million), I dont think they had ever been educated. Or African people. ... If you go to their tents, it is ridiculous. The inside and outside is the same. They are living there for generations but there is nothing inside. Outside is just sand and the wind. It is nothing. Q. Do you have hope? A. Personally? Or for humanity? That is very different, right? Personally, I enjoy every moment. I still have consciousness. I meet people and talk about whatever we can talk about. It is such a joy. But, as humanity, I worry about this a lot. Because I think that we are not fully appreciating who we are. Not even understand the fragile condition of our existence. That is a tragedy, because life is so precious and such a miracle. So, do you have a goal for the film? My goal for the film is to get the audience to watch it. It is my test or challenge to see, even I make this little effort but still I want people to watch it: two hours. But I kinda feel that I am asking too much, people spend their precious two hours to go to a film, which is not so fashionable today. But I still think that maybe people later can get on Amazon or something to watch it. Because this is a topic that we all should know and we all should in a democratic society, or in modern days, we cannot say of something that we just dont know it. That is a shame. Why do you care? Maybe it is something inside me, I dont really know. It is not really any kind of higher moral judgment. Ive really thought about it. But I dont think we know each other that well. And, especially, I dont think I know me that well. And before the end comes I try to dig at it to say, lets try this. Charles Desmarais is The San Francisco Chronicles art critic. Email: cdesmarais@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Artguy1 Human Flow Documentary. Starring Israa Abboud, Hiba Abed, Rami Abu Sondos. Directed by Ai Weiwei. (PG-13. 140 minutes.) This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Remember those quaint days in 2016 when San Franciscans were actually worried about local ballot measures? Yeah, me neither. It seems like eons ago that the city was hemming and hawing about Supervisor Mark Farrells Proposition Q on the November ballot. If only that were our most pressing political problem now! The measure was intended to give city officials the authority to clear homeless tent encampments if they gave camp dwellers a 24-hour warning and an offer of a shelter bed. Largely dismissed as symbolic, it nevertheless passed muster with 52 percent of voters who were clearly eager for anything anything! to reduce the sprawling, dangerous camps that have taken up entire sidewalks in many neighborhoods around San Francisco. Prop. Q now referred to as Section 169 after its place in the police code wasnt used at all for the first half of this year, seeming to confirm it wasnt worth much. But it turns out, it is useful in some circumstances. The citys homeless outreach team has issued 172 notices under Section 169 since June 29. These early results are exactly what we hoped for, Farrell said. The notices were all handed out near the citys fourth Navigation Center a homeless shelter with case managers and relaxed rules on South Van Ness Avenue. The center opened in June with 120 beds, which meant there was plenty of space for campers nearby. Scott Walton, outreach manager at the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, said his teams made up to three offers of a shelter bed per person and only issued the official notice if the answer was No each time. That meant the teams then had authority to show up 24 hours later, sometimes with police and public works crews, to force the issue. None of the notices actually resulted in the forced removal of tents; 159 recipients of the notices agreed to move into shelter, and the rest packed up their belongings and left the camps on their own. The HOT team moved through the area and encouraged people to come in for at least a respite stay at the Navigation Center, said Walton. If they chose not to come in, we explained to them we were working on creating an area and maintaining an area with no tents. Walton said Section 169 is only one of our many tools to deal with encampments and pointed out that it was an unusual circumstance because there arent usually 120 brand-new shelter beds ready for people. You couldnt blanket the city with these notices unless you had the full number of placements ready for the next day and the physical ability to get everybody in, he said. Jeff Kositsky, the head of the homeless department, never took an official position during last falls campaign, but he always made it clear he wasnt wild about Prop. Q. Now hes come around a little. He said that outreach teams have found it useful, but that it will never be the departments go-to tool. He said traditional outreach and street counseling are usually more effective. Its more of a last resort in many ways, he said. He said these types of initiatives are making changes at the margins, but that hopefully all of the citys tools for moving homeless people inside can add up to real change. Speaking of real change, Farrell dropped plenty of it to get Prop. Q passed. The rumored mayoral contender for 2019 who seems to want to make homelessness a signature issue raised more than $733,000 to ensure the measures passage. If you divide that by the 172 notices its resulted in so far, thats a whopping $4,261.62 apiece. Enough to rent a one-bedroom apartment for a month even in this city. San Francisco is famous for its protests. But youve got to hand it to Ken Maley for putting a unique spin on his one-man protest the other day. 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. Maley, a media consultant living on Telegraph Hill, is sick of the tourist buses that park illegally near the North Beach Library, taking up numerous parking spaces and never paying the meters. The drivers just sit there while tourists shop, gaze at the twisty bit of Lombard Street and relieve themselves in the librarys bathrooms. Earlier this month, Maley reached his breaking point. He spotted a bus driver in an empty bus, smoking a cigarette and reading. He told the driver to move. The driver, youll be shocked to learn, didnt readily comply. He just got really belligerent, Maley recalled. He gave me a few expletives. Maley then dialed the non-emergency police number and planted himself in the street, right in front of the bus, to wait for the police to respond. The driver got out of the bus, demanding that Maley move. Maley wouldnt budge. Thats when the driver spotted a police officer across the street and went over to tell him what was going on. The police officer came over, words were exchanged, and the officer eventually cited both the driver and Maley. Maleys citation comes with a $196 fee for pedestrian in the roadway. He said, I understand your motive, but I dont advise it, Maley recalled. I said, Thank you very much. I look forward to seeing you in court because youre so hot! Bet you didnt see that coming. Maley then went on at length about the police officers good looks, but Im not a romance novelist so suffice it to say some of the adjectives used were beefy and lovely. Maley is due in court on Tuesday. Often, if the officer fails to appear, the citation is dismissed. Maley, however, is very much hoping the officer shows up. Heather Knight is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist. Email: hknight@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @hknightsf Gabrielle Lurie/Special to The Chronicle A bill to give the wireless industry largely unchecked access to public property across California brought loud objections from local officials in the Bay Area and beyond. Can the industry hear them now? Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed the legislation Sunday, acknowledging the value of deploying wireless technology rapidly and efficiently but adding that he favors a more balanced solution than the one achieved in this bill. Indeed, Senate Bill 649, authored by Sen. Ben Hueso, D-San Diego, and passed by the Legislature last month, would have all but given away public infrastructure to wealthy corporations. Homelessness has many faces, each with its unique story and set of challenges. As a state, we sometimes do a good job recognizing this reality by focusing resources, for example, on veterans or homeless families. Yet, we continually ignore one group with unique needs: our youth. In California, we see the dramatic effects of youth homelessness and our failure to address it everywhere. We have the highest number of homeless youth in the country, with a minimum of 12,000 young people living on our streets, 80 percent of whom were unsheltered as of 2015. Of California State University students, 1 in 10 is homeless. Homeless young people live in urban, suburban and rural areas. Despite these stark numbers, two-thirds of California counties have no shelters specifically designed to serve youth reflecting a lack of focused resources and prioritization. Its easy to see why we ignore homeless youth, a group in the age range of 16 to 24. In our society, age 18 marks the beginning of adulthood, when you can vote, enlist in the military and live on your own free from your parents. However, there is a difference between a 19-year-old on the streets for the first time, and a 45-year-old who has been homeless for 20 years. Both populations need a path off the street, but homeless youth need age-appropriate support that is different and separate from adults. The factors that cause youth homelessness are unique: rejection by families, fleeing or aging out of the foster care system, and abuse and neglect in their homes. Homeless youth are far more likely to be physically or sexually victimized than their peers. Up to 40 percent of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ and, of those youth, up to 40 percent cite family rejection as the reason for their homelessness. Our homeless youth also are unique in that they are still learning and growing. In fact, up until the age of 25, their brains are still maturing. Connecting these young adults with job training, school and life learning skills can have a much greater effect on them as they continue to grow. We recently held a joint hearing in the Legislature to shed light on our unacceptably high level of youth homelessness and to explore how California can get these young people off the streets. At the hearing, service providers, researchers, advocates and youth discussed what they see every day and how we can help. It was a powerful hearing, but in particular the testimony from the formerly homeless youth on their inability to even access the few services available to them struck a nerve. We committed to taking action, including leading an effort to devote significantly more resources to prevention, intervention and housing for homeless youth. We also will work to create a comprehensive plan to prevent and end youth homelessness. It is clear that our shelters and resources need to be more focused on accommodating our LGBT youth, particularly transgender youth, who are often ostracized and alienated within the homeless community. As with so many of our problems, homelessness requires solutions focused on the long view. Every young person we get off the streets and stabilized now is one more person with a shot of not living on the streets in 10 years. Indeed, one study found that homeless youth are five times more likely to become homeless adults than their peers. We need to develop strategies and dedicate funding to help our homeless youth succeed. Scott Wiener is a Democrat representing San Francisco and Northern San Mateo County in the state Senate. Blanca Rubio is a Democrat representing the San Gabriel Valley in the state Assembly. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Deciding to challenge a California political institution and a leader of his own party will turn out to be the easy part for state Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon. Hes about to find out how many obstacles stand between him and an election victory next year over Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein. De Leon faces significant disadvantages in funding his campaign. Practically everyone in California has heard of Feinstein, while almost no one has heard of de Leon even the left-wing voters he hopes to energize by styling himself as a progressive alternative to the states senior senator. And de Leon, 50, has to delicately navigate the most sensitive topic in the campaign the 84-year-old Feinsteins age. If he handles it badly, hell jeopardize not just his chances in the 2018 election, but his entire political career. Those were all the things that made it hard for him to jump in and potentially hard for him to win, too, said Thad Kousser, chairman of the political science department at UC San Diego. Here is a look at some of the challenges that de Leon, a career legislator from Los Angeles, faces against a senator who has been in office for a quarter of a century. Where will the money come from? Over the years, de Leon has been a successful fundraiser for his state campaigns. But almost none of what hes raised can be used to run against Feinstein. As of June 30, the deadline for the states most recent campaign finance filings, de Leon had $886,000 left over from his 2014 campaign for state Senate and $2.82 million from a once-prospective 2018 run for lieutenant governor. But federal campaign finance rules put most of it off-limits, because de Leon raised it under more lenient state laws. California, for example, allows contributions of up to $4,400 for a state Senate race and $7,300 for lieutenant governor. In a campaign for U.S. Senate, however, the limit is $2,700 from individuals and $5,000 from a political action committee. And the federal government doesnt allow contributions from labor unions or corporations, major sources of campaign cash for politicians in the state capital. In the first six months of the year, for example, de Leons campaign for lieutenant governor had five contributors that gave the maximum $14,600, $7,300 each for the 2018 primary and general election. They came from a school-employees union, a California dentists political action committee, the state building trades council, the state laborers union and the iron workers union. That means de Leon starts with a bank account of zero. Feinstein raised more than $2.1 million for her Senate campaign in the first six months of the year, and had a total campaign fund of $3.57 million on June 30. And Feinstein has another, huge advantage: She will tap her $79 million fortune to self-fund her campaign if necessary, campaign adviser Bill Carrick said. How famous is Sacramento Famous? De Leon is a powerful force in state politics as the head of the state Senate. But the Sacramento area, where the Legislatures activities get more local coverage than in most of the state, has only about 15 percent of Californias voters. The last time he won re-election in his district, in Los Angeles, de Leon had to win over just 57,000 voters. When Feinstein won her last re-election, in 2012, she received 7.8 million votes. When voters were asked in a Berkeley IGS poll in April whom they would want to replace Feinstein should she choose not to run, de Leon was named by just 3 percent of respondents the same as Secretary of State Alex Padilla and San Francisco billionaire environmentalist Tom Steyer, who is still mulling a Senate bid. Voters preferred seven other people to replace Feinstein before mentioning de Leon, including Ashley Swearengin, the Republican former mayor of Fresno, who was the choice of 22 percent. Feinstein has nearly a half-century of public service, starting with her election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1969. She not only has widespread name recognition, Kousser said she has a trusted brand name. People know what they are getting with her. That said, Kousser pointed out that nobody knew who the hell Barack Obama was when he ran for the Senate (in Illinois in 2004). He had much less of a policy record than Kevin de Leon had. But, Kousser said, the big difference was that Barack Obama wasnt running against Dianne Feinstein. How are they different on the issues? While de Leon intends to run to Feinsteins left by emphasizing his opposition to President Trump and his support for single-payer Medicare-for-all, on many other domestic issues theyre in pretty close alignment, said Bill Honigman, the California director for the national Progressive Democrats of America. Although the organization disagrees with Feinsteins past support for the Patriot Act and the Iraq War, we dont know much about (de Leons) position on national security issues, Honigman said. And while there is a lot of frustration with Feinstein from Californias left, 50 percent of voters still approve of the job shes doing in Washington including 73 percent of Democrats according to a Berkeley IGS poll taken in September. People with no party affiliation approved of her performance by 41 to 36 percent. Given de Leons endorsement of Hillary Clinton for president both in 2008 over Obama and in 2016 over Sen. Bernie Sanders, independent-Vt., he is going to have a lift with progressives, theres no doubt, said RoseAnn DeMoro, executive director of the progressive National Nurses United, which has 100,000 members statewide. Still, DeMoro said, the fact that he would break away and challenge the political establishment will speak highly of him to the progressive community. The O-word: One of de Leons biggest challenges will be drawing a generational contrast between him and Feinstein without being seen as ageist. The Berkeley IGS poll in April found that 56 percent of respondents would support Feinsteins re-election, but that dropped to 50 percent when they were told of her age. However, analysts say de Leon has to be careful about using phrases such as her time has passed, because basically youre saying shes old, said Jennifer Duffy, senior editor of the Cook Political Report, a nonpartisan analyst publication about Congress. He has to stay positive and explain how he embodies the new California, Kousser said. The voters know who Dianne Feinstein is. They can draw their own conclusions. Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli. John Wildermuth is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jwildermuth@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jfwildermuth Being black in San Francisco is akin to being visibly invisible. Its an existence suspended in a polychromatic limbo, a rare mocha dot amid a sea of hues. This perspective is intrinsically unique to a generation of black Millennials born too late to have visited the Fillmore when it was the Harlem of the West, home to frequent jazz visitors like Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and Dizzy Gillespie. Ghosts of the neighborhoods minority-owned clubs like Bop City, restaurants, and pool halls in the 1940s and 1950s exist now as upscale shops and hipster-chic eateries. Its a steep decline over time from the 1970s when 1 in every 7 San Francisco residents was black, to 2016 where the number was 1 in 20. Suffice to say, its a lonely life being black in San Francisco. I recently needed insight on how to live happily, in the cultural sense, as a 30-year-old black man in the city. Luckily, I met Shani Jones, a black woman in the local food industry who has called the city home for all but a fraction of her life. When I asked her how she finds refuge from a visibly invisible existence, her answer was simple: in food. Jones is the proprietor of Peaches Patties, one of the citys few Caribbean food outfits, and she named her business after her mother, a Kingston, Jamaica, native who went by Peaches. The family matriarch moved to the U.S. and married Jones New Orleans-born father. In the Jones household, the cultural collaboration resulted in eclectic dinners: grilled meats with Jamaican flavors served on the same table as Creole stews and gumbos. This spurred Shanis love of bold spices and culturally rooted recipes. That same passion gave birth to Peaches Patties. I can get lost in cooking. Its something thats therapeutic, and its a way to learn about yourself, learn about the people around you, she says. Its been my escape when I need it to be. I confessed to Shani that as a Louisiana native who grew up in a small city where 57 percent of the population was black, Ive been imbued with a sense of loneliness and isolation since moving to the Bay Area last year. But the loneliness isnt a social construct, I clarified. Its cultural, which itself embodies more of an emotional ache, exacerbated by the fact that African American culture is beloved by the non-black Bay Area populace. A cookie dough business can debut with hip-hop theme offerings, unaware of the correlating cultural appropriation. And BART conversations between Millennial tech workers span the gamut from the merits of Kanye Wests Life of Pablo album to the effortless beauty of Beyonce yet bags are clutched just a little tighter if a hoodie-clad, Kanye-looking male boards the train with them. Shani and I grew up different. We also grew up very much the same. She attended Clark Atlanta University, a historically black college in Georgia, where she learned, among other things, about the beauty of Southern hospitality in black culture: The black community is supportive there. They care about each other and that wasnt something Id never experienced, she says. She also discovered the similarities between Southern, overt racism Confederate flags hanging from porches or restaurant windows and the modern aesthetics of racism in 2017, where collared shirts and tiki torches can be repurposed as uniforms of hate. The lack of a black population in San Francisco has made racism more subtle, Jones says, less aggressive in the form of intolerance. Condescension. Dismissiveness. If Im working at the kiosk, and especially if I have a head wrap on, people that arent black sometimes come in and want a Broadway production. A white guy once came in and said with a Jamaican accent, Let me get a patty, bombaclot. I immediately told him that was not OK, she says. Im not shucking and jiving for anyone. Sometimes people will ask me to do the accent anyway, like thats OK. Its frustrating. Racially tinged interactions are a core tenet of the black experience. Jones knew this even at a young age. She says she had to be an overachiever in grade school in order to be treated with respect by white teachers. She said she had to be a better citizen, more upstanding, with better manners than her white counterparts to simply not be judged or stereotyped because of her skin. I remember days where Id be playing near the street at my house and white people who lived in the neighborhood with us would stop and ask if we lived in our house. Or if we were lost, she says. Cooking is her tangible way to connect with a part of her heritage not reflected in her environment. Jones doesnt have a brick-and-mortar location for Peaches Patties, but her temporary digs at 331 Cortland Avenue still provide a sense of comfort a sense of calm achieved by losing herself in an order for her Jamaican grilled jerk chicken, Jamaican roast beef or Jamaican curry with potatoes. I love what I do. I feel connected to what I do. Its an answer to that loneliness we talk about, Jones said. This is my refuge. And as one of the few black people left in this city, I completely understand. Justin Phillips is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jphillips@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JustMrPhillips Grits. For me, pure comfort food. I dont remember the first time I had them, but if asked what my final meal would be, grits with butter, salt and pepper would on the menu. I was born and raised in San Francisco, my dad a Jewish, second-generation San Franciscan and public-school teacher; my mother a black Southerner who came to the Bay Area with her family in search of a better life. My love of grits came from my mother, and when she and my father divorced in the early 60s, my father became a single parent to a mixed-race daughter who loved grits. As a single parent, my father both relished and relied on community. Not long out of college, my dads circle was an eclectic mix of races and backgrounds, including Moody, the black cook at my dads fraternity who introduced my parents. He taught my dad a few things about good cooking. And a bit about hard drinking but thats another story ... Our house was lively and often reminiscent of a busy restaurant: lots of laughter, good food and folks staying way past closing time. My dad was (and still is) a great cook, and one of the ways he made sure his mixed-race daughter would know her heritage was through food. Much like the first time I had grits, I dont have a specific memory of the first time my dad and I ate at Eddies Cafe. Paul Chinn/The Chronicle Eddies Cafe is a greasy spoon on the corner of Divis and Fulton owned by a Korean family in what was at the time a primarily black neighborhood. It was something that wasnt hard to find in San Francisco when I was growing up a working-class restaurant filled with more brown folks then white. Eddies felt like home. Did I mention Eddies served grits? As I grew up and began to think about race, class, economics and the intersections of these, I marveled at the continued existence of a place like Eddies Cafe. The cooks were Asian and black (maybe that explains the grits), the waiters were Filipino, the diners were working class and mostly brown. Eddies also had an easy, unforced feel to it. An organic community, not overthought or intentional. By the time I moved to Oakland in the mid-90s, the city was changing already: tech money, fewer and fewer black people, an overall whitening of San Francisco. Around Eddies Cafe, the neighborhood reflected what was happening citywide a redefinition of working class, and mass economic deportation of black people. Eddies Cafe still exists. Its still owned by a Korean family. They still serve grits, and you can still find some working-class folks sprinkled in between the well-paid working class. But there arent many brown folks in the restaurant or the neighbored anymore. And I dont feel quite as at home at Eddies Cafe or San Francisco as I used to. And sometimes, when I think about how much the city has changed and how few black, brown and working-class folks are left, I find comfort in a big bowl of grits with butter, salt and pepper. Tannis Reinhertz is a department chair at City College of San Francisco, where she has worked since 1993. Email: food@sfchronicle.com Its Monday night and Tommys Mexican Restaurant is hopping. The bar, tucked behind a partition to the left of the front door, is standing-room only. The booths are filled with hungry customers. Servers jot orders on their notepads and run aromatic plates of enchiladas and Yucatecan tamales to their guests, whose eyes grow wide when their food is delivered. Others chat in between crunchy bites of tortilla chips and sips of margaritas. At the bar, people clink their glasses together, echoing cheers or salud as they taste their lime-colored cocktails. Some nose their tulip glasses of neat Tequila and ponder its terroir, seriously studying the characteristics that define this category of spirit. At the center of it all is Julio Bermejo, a spectacled man with dark hair, who dons a black button-up shirt marked with the restaurants logo. He makes his way up and down the bar, pulling bottles from the shelf, asking people if theyve tried this or that Tequila, smiling for occasional photos and chatting with regulars who have been coming to the bar for years. He orchestrates the dynamics of the bar with ease, something that he has earned with years of practice. He carries on several conversations at once, never missing a beat and rarely forgetting a name. He monitors the bartenders and watches the pace of the restaurant, often stepping into the dining room to give hugs or shake hands. Hes the lifeblood of Tommys both an internationally renowned Tequila expert and a staple of the neighborhood. Tommys is in the Outer Richmond, past the steel buildings that stretch into the San Francisco sky. Its far from the cars and buses that clog the downtown streets during rush hour. Instead, its in an unassuming building on Geary Boulevard marked only by a red neon sign. It sits across the street from St. Monicas, a white church that doubles as a grade school (the one that Bermejo attended as a child). Tommys has been around since 1965 when Bermejos mother and father, Elmy and Tomas, started serving food from their native Yucatan. Its been a hub for various communities ever since, providing people with meals, employment, good Tequila and respite from the rhythm of their daily lives. Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle Tomas was born in 1932 in Oxkutzcab, Mexico. As a child, he did what he could to make ends meet. From what I gather, my father was fairly poor, says the younger Bermejo. Tomas would sell his harvest from chicle trees or water he had gathered to other town residents. He came to the United States as part of the Bracero Program. The literal translation of bracero means one who works using his arms and was a term used for a manual laborer. The program was started in August 1942 when the U.S. and Mexico signed the Mexican Farm Laborer Agreement. This agreement called for several things, including decent living conditions for immigrant laborers (which meant access to sanitation, food and shelter), minimum wage of 30 cents an hour, and changed labor from seasonal to year-round. The Bracero Program was extended in 1951 with the Migrant Labor Agreement and then enacted as an amendment to the Agricultural Act of 1949. It ended in 1964. During the course of its life, it sponsored over 5 million guest workers but was criticized harshly as legal slavery and for the actual working conditions it spawned. After the program was dissolved, many workers stayed in agriculture while others headed to cities. Tomas spent 10 years in the program, and was one of those who was city-bound. Tomas married his wife, Elmy, before joining the Bracero Program. He would visit his wife when time and money allowed. The couple had two children while he was in the program and three more when he was able to move them up to San Francisco. (Julio Bermejo still remembers meeting his two oldest siblings for the first time as a child.) Tomas used the money he had saved to open his first business, Elmy Cafe, on McAllister Street, and later to buy the building that would become Tommys. He and Elmy worked hard to provide their family and staff with the opportunities that they did not have in Mexico. When Tommys opened in 1965, Tomas and Elmy ran the business without help. It was literally my mother and father who did everything, Bermejo says. My father bought the food, cooked it, washed dishes and took care of maintenance. My mother did the administration. I honestly dont know how they did it, but they managed. Eventually, some family members made their way to San Francisco, including Bermejos Uncle Oscar, who is Tommys longest running employee and still works the floor. The rest of the family would help when and where they could, including with design. Our original sign was painted by my uncle, the husband of my fathers sister. He painted a roast beef and two enchiladas. Ill forever remember that, Bermejo says. Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle Bermejos earliest memories are of Tommys. He was just a year old when his parents opened the restaurant. There were photos of me in diapers in here, he says. He remembers the jukebox and sneaking into the open kitchen, where his father was cooking, to run across the street to play. He had mixed feelings about growing up in a restaurant family. While the restaurant provided a safe haven and financial stability for his family, he was expected to help out as much as possible when he was old enough. I peeled potatoes and carrots, grated cheese and ran errands to pick up things, he says. He learned some hard but formative lessons as a child at Tommys. As the youngest of five, he watched his siblings move beyond the family business. He longed to follow suit and was excited to head to college. He completed a year at San Francisco State before transferring to UC Berkeley. He lived at home while in school and worked at the restaurant on weekends, unable just yet to escape the life he longed to leave. Bermejo earned a bachelor of science degree in political science and foreign service in 1988. He wanted to work for the State Department as a diplomat. He took the foreign service exam but was unable to pass the oral interviews, dashing his dreams of a life in politics. He cut his losses, and while he figured out his next steps, he returned to Tommys. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle 2017 After Tommys received its liquor license in 1976, the family put a blended margarita on the menu with mixto Tequila made from a mixture of agave and other ingredients like corn, wheat and even artificial additives. In 1989, shortly after he graduated, Bermejos friend introduced him to Herradura, a Tequila made from 100 percent blue agave. It blew my mind, he says. This purer type of Tequila is vastly more representative of the land on which the agave is grown, and the experience became the catalyst for a deep relationship with Tequila. Bermejo began to look at what types of liquor the restaurant was carrying. Our bar looked like most bars of the era, he remembers. We had every creme de whatever, bourbon, and really weak Tequila. After discovering Herradura and taking a closer look at Tommys products, he started visiting Mexico frequently to tour distilleries, meet producers and bring back bottles. I started going every six weeks on my own dime. They would talk, and I would listen, he says. He learned about the land, the production and Mexican hospitality. A passion was ignited, one that he has never lost. He took his newly acquired knowledge back with him to San Francisco and used it behind the bar. He educated his customers about the virtues of 100 percent agave Tequila. People werent always receptive to sipping the spirit neat, so Bermejo used the margarita as a vehicle to illustrate the different characteristics of each expression. He also simplified the original version of the cocktail, using only Tequila, lime and agave syrup. This became what is now known as the Tommys Margarita, which felt revolutionary and later earned him international acclaim. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. Bermejos dream of being a diplomat may have been lost in the traditional sense, but his career took on a new life when he began advocating for good Tequila. His curation and work to educate people on the social, cultural, environmental, economic and political aspects of the spirits category gave him pride. People from all over the world made trips to Tommys to sit in front of him and taste whatever he was pouring. His familys business enabled him to create a meaningful professional career: It doesnt go unappreciated that people appreciated the work that we do. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle 2017 Not only did Tommys become a refuge for Bermejo, it also became one for Tommys employees. When Tomas was running the restaurant, he made an effort to hire people from the Yucatan, creating, as one 2002 Chronicle article put it, an informal safety net for dozens of friends who have come to Northern California to start a new life. To this day, the family has a legacy of retaining staff for years, something that is unheard of in most other restaurants. Bartenders, servers and cooks stay for decades. Bermejos Uncle Oscar has worked there for 45 years while others have been there for over 20. In turn, his longtime employees make an effort to return the favor. One of his cooks maintains his connections to the Yucatan and helps out at the Mexican Consulate. The restaurant strives to welcome people in and give them a change for the better. My employees may not speak perfect English, but the experience is always genuine, Bermejo says. You can tell when a place has soul. You cant quantify it, but you can feel it. Its being part of a community. As Bermejo created a stable professional home for himself and his employees, the restaurant was becoming a refuge for his guests. Tommys is the buoy that got some regulars through divorces, career changes and other personal turmoil. Its the place where people want to celebrate good news, come for comfort, reconnect with old friends and learn something new about Tequila. One of the ways in which Bermejo achieved this was through his Blue Agave Club. The program was designed as an educational component of tasting and was modeled after a punch-card program at Raleighs, a bar where he drank in college. For a $10 application fee, customers are enrolled in the club and work their way through three levels. The first two levels, Masters and Ph.D., require the tasting of 35 Tequilas each. An exam is required to pass the Ph.D. level, with a score of at least 80 percent. The last level, Demigod, requires traveling to Mexico with Bermejo. It took a while to work, but now we have over 8,000 members of the club, he says. There are over 800 Masters. It gives people incentive to try brands theyve never heard of. Thats been really cool. At Tommys, two strangers could be sitting next to each other, realize they are both working their way through the program and strike up a conversation. Community is formed over mutual interest in Tequila. The restaurant allowed Tomas and Elmy to make a good living and provide for their five children. In turn, those children created successful careers for themselves. They were able to employ family and friends from Yucatan, so they too could prosper in San Francisco. Tomas cultivated an environment where people felt welcome. Julio Bermejo is able to carry on the spirit of his father, who passed away in 2011. For Bermejo, Tommys became a place where he could find his voice and share his love of Tequila and Mexico with the world. Ultimately, Tommys became a place that allowed Bermejo to realize the career aspirations of his youth. In 2001, he became Mexicos sole U.S. Tequila ambassador. His years of educating himself and others about Tequila turned into a political career of sorts, one that he takes seriously. His passion for the blue agave spirit has not waned, evident in the way he works the bar if you happen to catch him there on a busy Monday night. Shanna Farrell is an interviewer at UC Berkeley's Oral History Center, where she works on a variety of projects and specializes in contemporary cocktail culture. She is the author of Bay Area Cocktails: A History of Culture, Community and Craft. Email: food@sfchronicle.com This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate It feels as if I should be wrapped in a red, white and green flag. In the past week or so Ive visited three of the Bay Areas most popular Italian restaurants: Gialina in Glen Park; Delfina in the Mission; and Dopo in Oakland. Its not unusual for my visits to cluster, but in this case I went for different reasons. Gialina: My goal at Gialina was to see how its held up now that owner Sharon Ardiana has opened her namesake restaurant, Ardiana, the subject of my Sunday, Oct. 22, review. The pizza was as good as I remember. When the restaurant opened more than a decade ago it became known for the Atomica ($15), a simple topping of tomato, garlic, mushrooms, mozzarella and the slow burn of chiles on the thin, crispy crust. Its still the star. The salads were also excellent especially the heirloom tomato ($12) and even now Im craving those meatballs ($11) with tomato sauce and aged provolone. As much as I liked the food, I found the plating careless on some dishes. On the chicken ($21), the only main course on the menu, the rim of the plate was unevenly flecked with parsley, and the breast and leg melted into the polenta, soaking into the too generous pool of sauce. On the chocolate pistachio cake ($9), an irregular dusting of cocoa powder was thick and cough inducing; however, I couldnt quibble about the allure of the cake. 2842 Diamond St., San Francisco; (415) 239-8500. www.gialina.com . Dinner nightly. Michael Bauer/The Chronicle Dopo: This Oakland restaurant, which opened 14 years ago, had a pizza to rival Gialinas. Two years ago, chef-owner Jon Smulewitz refocused the menu to match his Sicilian heritage, but the real reason I returned was to see how the restaurant had incorporated the world-class salumi that was the backbone of Adesso, a sister restaurant that closed earlier this year. While the service seemed a bit harried, the signature Dopo pizza ($15) with tomato sauce, oregano and the slow sear of chiles was as good as I remember. Fettuccine with duck ragout ($23) was also good, but I was most intrigued by a style of meatballs Ive never had: Polpette allEtna ($21). Ground chicken and pork were cooked on lemon leaves and were flat on one side and mounded on top. The texture was smooth and the flavor intense; all they needed was a squeeze of lemon that garnished the plate. As for the salumi: I tried the chefs selection ($23) and was disappointed and missed the variety that used to be on the Adesso menu. I still like Dopo and can see why its popular, but its missing the finishing touches that placed it in the Top 100 a few years ago. 4293 Piedmont Ave., Oakland (510) 652-3676. www.dopoadesso.com . Lunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday. Michael Bauer/The Chronicle Delfina: Delfina was a check-in visit for the Top 100. I found that its as busy, and good as ever even after nearly 19 years in business. The classics are consistently excellent, including the roast chicken ($27) with the smooth, creamy olive oil mashed potatoes; the appetizer of squid ($15) on a soupy pile of beans ringed with olive oil and topped with frisee and arugula. And what is still one of my favorite, and simplest pastas anywhere: the spaghetti in tomato sauce ($12). When we ordered it as an appetizer the waiter warned us that it took 20 minutes, which is a clue to its success. The spaghetti is partly cooked in the sauce so it becomes infused with its flavor. Desserts are always worth ordering, particularly the panna cotta. 3621 18th St., San Francisco; (415) 552-4055. www.delfinasf.com . Dinner nightly. Earlier this month, state lawmakers passed the California Values Act, a bill that provides new safeguards for Californias estimated 2.3 million undocumented immigrants. Seen as a political clapback to the Trump administrations unforgiving stance on immigration reform, the legislation forbids California law enforcement agencies from coordinating with federal immigration authorities. The law builds upon the idea of the Golden State as one of sanctuary refuge from deportation, refuge from profiling based on ones immigration status, refuge for children being torn away from their mamas, babas, aunties and tios. As an organizer, the concept of sanctuary is frustratingly elusive for many of the communities I work and live in. The generations of black families disappearing from the Harlem of the West. The unceremonious shuttering of queer and trans-owned businesses. The raids that incite quiet terror in restaurant kitchens and farms. A light goes out, a person vanishes, and our neighbors ask, Sanctuary for whom? Sanctuary when? Its as if we are trying to snatch water. Your hands are wet, but ultimately empty. So I ask, how do we expand the idea of sanctuary to wider migration patterns to all who are seeking and have sought refuge here? I looked to another community that has sustained me and so many others the food industry. I reached out to chefs, farmers and advocates and heard a similar theme: the dire need to carve out physical, psychological and social food spaces for those constantly on the periphery. -- Shakirah Simley, @ShakSimley Here is sanctuary for survival, in their own words: "Sanctuary for me is a place of comfort and faith where you have no fear where all should feel safe and welcomed without judgment. Ive created a home for myself and community by always supporting others. As a child, I would always hear my grandmother and mother say It takes a village to raise a child; so when there is a threat, it takes the entire village to fight it. Fernay McPherson, Minnie Bells Soul Movement "Having food spaces that are intentional about creating a space for people that is inclusive and centered in love and respect is an essential part of keeping our cultures resilient, particularly in these times." Reem Assil, Reems California "It is not possible to build a home if your family is being forcefully taken away, let alone the threat of it. My parents nurtured me with home-cooked, made-from-scratch meals. So in retrospect, I eventually found the kitchen as my sanctuary." Tu David Phu, An "There is no food without sanctuary. How can you purport to provide food to someone with an equal serving of fear, duress, humiliation or exclusion? For food and agriculture spaces to go another way, we need to reject the politics of discrimination and division at every level in hiring, ordering, selling, distributing, land purchasing." Nina Ichikawa, Berkeley Food Institute Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. "Everything in our lives is based on the premise that someone, somewhere is being exploited. Especially in food. It is important within the food industry to give back. Whether it is standing up for your employees, creating a respectful work environment, giving back culturally to a community, sourcing as best you can and moving away from transactions that are solely based on monetary value." Gerardo Gonzalez, Lalitos NYC "In terms of gender, race and culture, you are your best self when you are your most truthful self. Whether its our customers, our staff, delivery people or producers, everyone in that truthful self, that best self, will be celebrated and appreciated. We do not reproduce a homogenous culture that everyone has to fit into, and otherness has to be checked at the door." Preeti Mistry, Juhu Beach Club and Navi Kitchen "Sanctuary for my workers and the people in my community means not having to worry. Right now, people are really frightened to move from their place of work and home. They dont feel comfortable going to visit family, even 15-20 minutes away, as they do not know if they will make it back home to their children. One of my strawberry pickers, a 23-year-old, started developing extreme anxiety and panic attacks. Hes a father and he picks his daughter up every Sunday. Hes an extremely hard worker, provides for his daughter, and sends money back home to Mexico. But, because hes undocumented, he very fearful he will be sent away and miss those Sundays. A sanctuary city or state, would mean freedom of movement." Javier Zamora, Organics Farms Follow George McCalman on Instagram and Twitter at @MCCALMANCO. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate On any given morning, you can find Oahu fashion designer Jennifer Binney watching the sunrise from the front deck of her familys idyllic Lanikai beach house, hand-built by her husband, Peter, with plywood, cinder block and wide-open windows. During these contemplative moments, before her daughter, Rella, 11, and son, Kaiwa, 4, start stirring, Binney is usually dreaming about India. The former jewelry designer, who first visited the subcontinent in 2000, started her fashion company, Samudra, six years ago with a few oversize canvas pouches emblazoned with a digital tropical print. The images came from her lens or those of collaborators, including her mother, artist Ja Soon Kim. The balmy graphics think swaying palm trees, surfers catching swells and close-ups of ferns have become the brands signature, embellishing gauzy swimsuit cover-ups, cotton and silk caftans and cotton voile pareos. Indias influence can be found in the designs highly saturated, sometimes neon, colors. Samudra means confluence in Sanskrit, explains Binney, 44. My brand is a union of Hawaii and India. The Maui native notes that the title of her recent collection, Surf Jaipur, is ironic, considering that Jaipur, the biggest city in the northern state of Rajasthan, is squarely located in what some have called an inhospitable desert. But, as with most artists, Binneys inspirations are not always literal. In this case, surf is about how I navigate the unknown in India, she says. I just ride the wave of whatever is going to happen while Im there. This in-the-moment approach did not always come naturally. On Binneys first visit to India, a kind of sensory overload engulfed her, not unusual for the inaugural sojourns of Westerners. I really didnt like it. I got sick. I felt like I was in over my head, she admits. But a decade later, when a resort-retail company she was working for decided to send her back on a mission to find emerging designers, Binney had what she calls a life-changing experience. She befriended the late owner of Jaipurs famed Gem Palace, Munnu Kasliwal, a jeweler of international renown. Though he lived an opulent life, he took the time to show me the real India, his India, says Binney. He taught me to see the beauty beyond the grunge and poverty. Drawing from her time with Kasliwal which often took the form of quiet drives through the streets of the Old City in the wee morning hours Binney created the lookbook for Surf Jaipur, starring a beautiful, long-limbed Indian surfer named Ishita Malaviya. Rather than shooting at more extravagant historical locations such as City Palace or Amber Fort, Binney opted for humble backdrops: a truck stop, for example, where Malaviya wears the Wailea caftan in front of an ornately painted lorry; at the flower market, where she poses with the Cotton Candy rope tote; or at the citys best chai walla, where she sips tea wearing the Point Break design. Tropical flowers, from marigold leis draped over her shoulders to oversize hibiscus blossoms tucked behind her ear, also give a nod to Hawaii. Though Samudras newest collection, Outer Island, showcases a Hawaii state of mind, an ode to early-morning flights, canoe races, surfing, juicy mangoes and being salty for days, according to the designer, India is never too far away, in inspiration or memory. India is constant, says Binney, who returns to visit Jaipur several times a year. Its always on my mind. Leilani Marie Labong writes frequently about Hawaii for The Chronicles Island Style section. Where to find Samudra Online: www.samudra11.com Aloha Superette: 438 Uluniu St., Kailua. (808) 261-1011, http://www.alohasuperette.com Owens & Co.: 1152 Nuuanu Ave., Honolulu. (808) 531-4300, http://owensandcompany.com When Queen Kapiolani and her sister-in-law, then Princess Liliuokalani (at right), traveled to Queen Victorias Golden Jubilee in 1887, they brought sumptuous gowns that subtly paid tribute to the Hawaiian tradition of reserving special leis for royalty. The Friends of Iolani Palace recently commissioned historical-dress designer Iris Viacrusis of Hilo to re-create four of their outfits for state occasions known only from vintage photos in a yearlong project that cost more than $20,000. The alii (royalty) were very fashion forward for their day, said Viacrusis. While they sought out the top dressmakers in New York, London and Paris, they put their own Hawaiian twist in the designs with lei hulu (feather leis), peacock feathers and other elements that were rooted in their culture. You dont have to travel to Kau or Puna to sample some of these regions finest coffees, along with 100 percent Kona roasts, while on Hawaii Island. At Hualalai Trading Co., a small market and cafe next to the luxurious Four Seasons Hualalai, manager Nate Musson has pulled together a staff who present the islands wealth of quality coffee with care and passion. While you can pop in any time for a beautifully made cup, the cafe also recently started offering the Exclusive Hawaii Island Coffee Farm Tour and Tasting ($200). In partnership with Big Island Coffee Roasters and the hotel, the experience includes a three-hour guided tour of Kona Earth coffee farm in Holualoa and an hour-long tasting of four seasonal coffees paired with pastries by Kalani Garcia, the Four Seasons executive pastry chef. The farm tour and pastry pairings are also available as separate experiences. If the island of Hawaii is synonymous with Hawaiian coffee, then Kona is what most expect in their morning cup: a typically balanced roast, with sweet depth from fruit and chocolate notes, and brighter acidity from higher elevations of rich volcanic soil. Although Kona thrives as a visitor destination, farmers in the lesser-known regions of Kau and Puna are also growing some of the finest coffee in the world. Heres a taste from three sources: A notable farm in Holualoa, on the slopes of Hualalai volcano, Hula Daddy flies the Kona flag proudly. Originally from Los Angeles, Karen and Lee Patterson produce consistently fine Kona coffees, despite initial inexperience. When we bought the farm in 2002, we had no idea what we were doing, says Karen Patterson. We hired an agronomist to help us determine which varieties would flourish here. Three years later we had our first crop. Some of their most desirable coffee, sold only by mailing list, comes from Bourbon Pointu Laurina trees, which grow at the farms highest elevation of 2,500 feet and produce a limited amount. This rare coffee has notes of deep florals, dried fruit and nut butter, with an almost effervescent acidity. Its no wonder that it has a cult following. Roastmaster Laura Ross, who changed careers from hospitality to coffee roasting in her 40s, says the Bourbon Pointu Laurina is one of the most challenging coffees to roast. Its such a small production that theres no room for error. At $50 for 8 ounces, we have to get it right the first time, she notes. Visitor can taste many other Hula Daddy coffees, as seasonally available, at the shop overlooking the lower farm and the coast in the distance. Kau/Rustys Hawaiian Kau (pronounced kah-ooh), a coffee-growing region to the southeast of Kona, is beloved by consumers who like the third wave style of coffee, marked by lighter roasts and creative processing methods. At the epicenter is Rustys Hawaiian, where more than a decade ago Rusty and Lorie Obra embarked on their dream of starting a coffee farm. Originally from the Philippines, they found a 15-acre plot of land above the old sugarcane town of Pahala. But times were hard in Kau, an area not yet known for coffee. When Rusty died in 2006, Lorie became the lead farmer, experimenting with processing methods and allowing her farm to be a test lab for the University of Hawaii. I didnt really have a choice, she says. This farm was my husbands dream, and it was also our livelihood, so I had to learn to do it all. Lorie Obra now produces some of the islands most sought-after coffees with the help of daughter Joan Obra Gaston, formerly a food critic for the Fresno Bee, and son-in-law Ralph Gaston. Rustys Hawaiian has become known for naturally processed coffees, which are sun-dried rather than traditionally washed, giving them complex, fruity profiles. Two popular varieties, Red Caturra and Yellow Caturra, exhibit different kinds of fruit notes, the red leaning more toward the berry end of the spectrum and the yellow evoking the tropics. I love the challenge of making better coffees every year, Obra says. Sample some at gourmet restaurants such as Moon and Turtle in Hilo or specialty markets such as Whole Foods in Kailua, Oahu. Rustys Hawaiian also sells its beans online. Puna/Big Island Coffee Roasters Puna, in the southeast corner of Hawaii Island, lies far removed from most tourist attractions. Kelleigh Stewart and Brandon Damitz, young coffee entrepreneurs based in Portland, Ore., fell in love with its wildness and in 2010 bought a 3-acre coffee farm in Mountain View with chickens, sheep and even wild pigs. During the first few years, when we were trying to rehabilitate the coffee farm, we had to do a lot of other work to make a living, and we were basically subsistence farmers, Stewart recalls. We still butcher our own sheep and pigs, trade coffee for fish, and have no other water source than rain catchment. As owners of Big Island Coffee Roasters, they have brought innovative approaches to varieties and processing to their beans as well as those of other local growers who meet their high standards. The dry-processed version of their Puna coffee can be a revelation to virgin palates with its sweetly tart, crisp fruit tones and lively acidity. Constant humidity makes it challenging to process naturally, Damitz notes. Naturals are often favored in places with a lack of water, but here we have the opposite problem and have to be diligent to avoid ferment, which wrecks the taste of the coffee. Still, their efforts have paid off. In 2013, Big Island Coffee Roasters Puna Pink Bourbon was named Grand Champion in the Hawaii Coffee Associations Statewide Cupping Competition the first farm outside of Kona or Kau to do so. Hualalai Trading Co., on Konas luxurious Hualalai resort, features their roasts exclusively, with special experiences for connoisseurs who want to delve deeper. Kim Westerman is an East Bay freelance writer and the managing editor at Coffee Review. Email: style@sfchronicle.com Coffee finds Hula Daddy Kona Coffee: 74-4944 Mamalahoa Hwy., Holualoa. (808) 327-9744, www.huladaddy.com. Free tastings 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays; 45-minute tours ($10) available by reservation for a minimum of two people. Rustys Hawaiian: http://rustyshawaiian.com. Big Island Coffee Roasters: http://bigislandcoffeeroasters.com. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The first order of business for guests staying at the Surfjack Hotel in Waikiki is to post on Instagram an aerial shot of the words at the bottom of the pool. In this Millennial age, the Wish You Were Here, hand-lettered by local artist Matthew Tapia, qualifies as a thinly veiled humble-brag. While Michelle Jaime, principal of the local design studio the Vanguard Theory, says her team didnt set out to design for Millennials, she does admit, It just sort of happened. And since the Surfjack opened last year, two more Waikiki hotels have followed suit with similarly youth-driven, infinitely Instagrammable design Staying true to the buildings midcentury provenance, Vanguard designed the Surfjacks public spaces with modern, artisan spins on retro Hawaiian culture, such as that iconic postcard sentiment in the pool and the cabanas trippy black-and-white mural by California artist Brendan Monroe, which seems to undulate like an ocean wave. The lobbys plantation-style welcome area, modeled after Jaimes grandparents living room, achieves its retro vibe with avocado-green banquette cushions and throw pillows covered in vintage psychedelic muumuu fabric. Every detail seems manifested for the benefit of Instagram users. By default, hospitality designers are now also social-media content creators, says Jaime. While this undoubtedly changed our approach, the bottom line is that we really just wanted a cool place where our friends would want to hang out with us. The Laylow, a Marriott Autograph Collection property that debuted seven months ago next to the reimagined International Market Place, took inspiration from the midcentury stylings of late Honolulu architect Vladimir Ossipoff. The Laylows interior focuses on organic materials, such as the lobbys Mutina terra cotta cinder-block structure, which evokes traditional Polynesian tapa (bark cloth) patterns, and Hawaiian-style charm, including loaner ukuleles and custom monstera-leaf-print wallpaper in guest rooms. That said, for some Gen Xers and Baby Boomers, the hotels balmy salmon and teal palette seen on the aforementioned wallpaper, the beach towels and most prevalently on the lanai will recall Crockett and Tubbs linen suits on Miami Vice. We didnt target the design toward Millennials, says Fritz Mesenbrink, creative director at Official Mfg. Co. (also known as OMFG, of course) in Portland, Ore., echoing Jaimes refrain. But we made something that has soul, and Millennials often respond to that. The vintage hula bobble dolls at the front desk, also a regular Instagram feature, seem to shake their hips in agreement. At the Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach, opened in December, the vibe is less hipster haven and more sophisticated sanctuary. Driven by the concept of kipuka, the Hawaiian word for a green oasis surrounded by lava, Hawaiis first Hyatt Centric Hyatt Hotels nod to the modern boutique hotel features an earthier but highly texturized tableau thats instantly soothing to the eye. That moment of exhale upon arrival is something we worked hard to achieve, says Jenn Kreisberg, senior designer at Design 360 Unlimited, of Santa Monica. As such, the hotels most Instagram-worthy moment is a lobby vignette that includes the wavy wood-slat ceiling, a tone-on-tone tapa-inspired graffiti wall by San Francisco artist Aaron De La Cruz and, in the foreground, a Dedon hanging basket-weave daybed. The latter once hosted a photo opp for 10 people, which overextends the max occupancy cleared by the structural engineer. Even before Instagram was thing, we designed with those wow moments in mind, or what we refer to as conversational capital, says Kreisberg. Still, designers say they find that the idea of catering specifically to todays traveling content creators rings hollow, perhaps because doing so would undermine Millennials capacity to detect authenticity. People dont need footprints on the ground and a sign that says selfie spot. Theyre smarter than that, says Mesenbrink. As designers, the most important thing we can do is create something visually compelling with a true sense of place. Leilani Marie Labong writes frequently about Hawaii for The San Francisco Chronicles Island Style section. Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club: 412 Lewers St., Honolulu. (808) 923-8882, https://surfjack.com. From $222, including $25 hospitality fee. The Laylow, Autograph Collection: 2299 Kuhio Ave., Honolulu. (808) 922-6600, www.laylowwaikiki.com. From $240, including $25 amenity fee. Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach: 249 Seaside Ave., Honolulu. (808) 237-1234, www.hyattcentricwaikikibeach.com. From $254, including $25 resort fee. The two men in dark glasses had all the trappings of sanitation workers heavy jeans, work boots, thick gloves, fluorescent vests but in reality they both were sitting, reclining even, on a mountain of money. And based on the brisk pace of money-changing in the Tiangong Temple courtyard, that mountain was only going to get taller. And, well, sweeter. Ambling through Tainan, the capital of Taiwan from 1662 until 1887, I was distracted by a museum dedicated to weather forecasting and stumbled into an alley where everyone seemed to be carrying armloads of cash. Banded bricks of mustard-colored bills were everywhere and, in the courtyard, dozens of folding tables were stacked to eye level with a fortune in the currency. The operative word: fortune. It was ghost money. A young couple said that people come to the Tiangong (Lord of Heaven) Temple to buy stacks of joss paper money that the temple monks burn. The act is believed to help ensure that your loved ones who have died will have a better afterlife. Good fortune, in every sense of the word. It turned out I had arrived on the ninth day of the first lunar month, the birthday of the Jade Emperor for whom the cash was intended. This day each year, the normal orderly exchange of ghost money turns into a run on the bank. And it wasnt just money. Vendors were selling packages of snacks sugar cookies, baskets of fruit, lemon cookies, hard candy, wafer cookies intended for the Jade Emperors sweet tooth and a tastier afterlife for ancestors. It was a ritual Id never encountered, and the cynic in me kicked in, especially after seeing the 10-foot mountain of white garbage bags full of ghost money at one end of the courtyard with workers lounging on top of it. How does it work? Is there a published exchange rate for ghost money to a good afterlife? What if you want better than good? Can you get your ancestors a condo with a view? Is the ghost money a bribe? Or is it more of an allowance for ancestors to spend on afterlife beer and soup dumplings? I had a serious lack of understanding. Whether intentionally or not, so much of travel puts us on a crossroads with religions, beliefs, rituals. They are part of every culture on the planet, and to experience a place is often to experience some portion of religious life there. (Author Paul Theroux even named a book of travel wisdom The Tao of Travel, although since the vast majority of the quotes are his own, there might be some confusion about who the relevant deity is.) While not deeply religious, I like to learn about what a culture deems sacred the same way you learn about its wine or music or art by experiencing it (unless hot coals are involved, of course). Ive walked through thousands of prayer gates at a shrine in Kyoto, Japan, trudged to a mountaintop temple near Pyeongchang, South Korea, to look for a relic of the Buddha, lit candles in cathedrals from Krakow, Poland, to Montevideo, Uruguay, and climbed barefoot up the steps at Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to pay homage with flowers and milk. So while staying at a Buddhist temple in the mountains of South Korea not long ago, it made sense to come up with a chant, a prayer of sorts, to repeat during the day. Buddha of Great Wisdom, help me to understand better what is important and what is not. Buddha of Great Wisdom, help me to understand better what is important and what is not. Again and again. While hiking, while waiting for dinner, while getting ready for bed. Not surprisingly, I got lazy by the second day. The first bit to go was great wisdom, then and what is not, then Buddha, himself and, eventually, ironically, what is important was no longer important. The prayer became, simply, Help me understand better. It occurred to me that travel is that prayer. The simple act of going to other places is asking to better understand the world. As I drifted into the Tiangong Temple, and smoke from burning money and joss incense drifted out, I stopped to watch the people for whom this was an important part of their culture. Having delivered their ghost offerings, they stood quietly, humbly asking for good fortune for relatives, for themselves, for the world. It was devotion that deserved more than a punch line. Remembering that I had come to Taiwan to learn, I left the temple, walked up to the closest vendor and bought a few large bricks of ghost money, intended for some recently departed relatives. Without using any shared language, the woman asked if I wanted anything else. Just good fortune, I said, knowing she probably didnt understand the words. So I just pointed at the cookies. Spud Hilton is the editor of Travel. Email: travel@sfchronicle.com. Twitter and Instagram: @SpudHilton This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate It was 2 a.m. when Dr. Scott Witt got a call at home telling him he was needed to help evacuate the babies under his care in the neonatal intensive care unit at Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital. The Tubbs Fire, which had erupted hours earlier, was sweeping across much of the city and its flames were nearing the hospital. Within minutes of the call, the director of the hospitals neonatal ICU was steering his pickup truck away from his Santa Rosa home toward Highway 101, leaving behind his wife and four of his children. It was the beginning of a harrowing early-morning adventure in a quest to save eight newborn babies. It did not get off to a smooth start. By the time Witt, 45, reached the freeway, it had been closed. Flames from the fire had jumped across its lanes and traffic was a mess. Figuring it would be easier to weave through traffic on his motorcycle, Witt turned around and raced back home to get it. Now Playing: A Santa Rosa doctor went on a dangerous mission to save newborn babies form the deadly Tubbs Fire. He used his motorcycle to get through the clogged, and debris heavy, highway. Video: KTVU It was a 15-minute drive to his Fountaingrove neighborhood , and when he arrived, police were advising residents over loudspeakers to evacuate. The fire was still far away, Witt thought, but he asked his family to do as police requested and leave. He said he needed to focus on the babies under his units care and didnt want to also worry about his family. He then climbed onto his motorcycle, a 2015 BMW R nineT, and navigated side streets toward the hospital, 4 miles away. I got to where the fire was and started skirting around it, he said. It wasnt all that harrowing, it just involved darting around traffic, riding on the shoulder, sliding in the gravel. The police, when I explained, let me go through. When he arrived at the hospital, flames were approaching from two sides. Witt scanned the parking lot for a spot where patients could shelter if the building caught fire, as advised by the hospitals fire safety plan, but saw nothing. In this case, he said, no place was safe. Inside the hospital, he along with another doctor and the nurses prepared the units babies, most of them born prematurely, to be taken by ambulance to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital about 6 miles away. They moved them to the labor and delivery unit, closer to a fire-free exit, and began loading them into ambulances as they became available. It took multiple trips over about three hours. As the last two babies were loaded into an ambulance, Witt realized the only way he could make it to Memorial Hospital was on his motorcycle. At that point, the fire had come close enough that I knew the only way I could get there was to follow the ambulance on the freeway, he said. I figured it would be OK if I followed the ambulance and got some draft. The ambulance, with Witt on his motorcycle close behind, sped onto Highway 101, which was closed to all but emergency vehicles. The smoke from the fires was so dense, Witt had to rely on the ambulances lights to guide him. Flames licked at the side of the freeway and embers whipped through the air and across the pavement. Fallen power lines and branches were scattered across the roadway. Witt said he simply tried to steer clear of hazards and stay focused on getting to the new hospital to take care of his young patients. On a motorcycle, youre pretty versatile, he said. I wasnt really thinking of the danger because I was just thinking about what the babies would need. I know each baby personally, I know what they need and I wanted to pass that on to their new doctors. I wanted to be there for them. The babies, and Witt, arrived safely at Memorial Hospital. I wouldnt say it was the scariest thing I did in my life but close to it, Witt said. It didnt seem scary at the time. It seemed like the fire was far enough away. But later, looking back, it seems a little dangerous. With the newborns safe and being cared for, Witt called his family. They were safely sheltered at their church. He joined them there, to recover from his ordeal, and wait. It was Monday morning, the first day of the fires that would bring so much destruction. About noon, Witt and his family learned their home and the rest of their neighborhood had been destroyed. We lost everything, he said. But well be OK. We have insurance, and we intend to rebuild. And the support from the community has been amazing. Michael Cabanatuan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ctuan This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Elise Krawchuk heard the news and wished the fire had taken her house instead. Relentless flames from the deadly Northern California wildfires that destroyed the homes of her friends also leveled the Santa Rosa school that helped her 11-year-old autistic son, Aidan, once distant and unaffectionate, become a huge cuddler. It was the school where Aidans classmate, Oliver, 11, who didnt have a single friend for the first 10 years of his life, finally began to make some. And the school where Valentina, 11, who was suicidal in the third grade, learned social and emotional skills. The Santa Rosa branch of Anova School, the only educational program for high-functioning students with autism in Sonoma County, was lost to the destructive wildfires that tore through the city. The school was located at the Luther Burbank Center for Arts near the Fountaingrove area of Santa Rosa, where the fast-moving fire completely destroyed numerous homes and structures on Oct. 8 and 9, including the Anova campus, which served 120 students ranging from age 5 to 22. If I had the choice, I would trade my house for that school, Krawchuk said. Without even thinking about it. Some parents said they spent years fighting various school districts so their autistic children who are bright but too neurologically different to cope with the social demands of public schools could find a special environment to thrive. Now, as school founder Andrew Bailey begins the process of rebuilding, parents are asking themselves what they should do in the meantime. The nearest branch of Anova is some 70 miles away in Concord. Theyve started fundraising for repairs, but need a temporary place to call home. Karen Kaplan, an autism spectrum disorder consultant in the Bay Area, said theres no other school in the county with services for students with mild to moderate autism who are on the college-bound track. The loss is coupled with the fact that children on the spectrum are known to have high anxiety and dont cope well with change. All of a sudden they wake up Monday morning and theyre told,Theres no school, Kaplan said. To them, youve overwhelmed them. Their structure of their daily life is gone. Theres no answer for them. Krawchuk, Aidans mom, had pushed public school officials to enroll her son in Anova at an individual educational plan meeting, but they preferred to place him in special needs classes, which Krawchuk resisted. Then she was given the choice of placing Aidan in the Anova school on a 30-day trial that turned into a permanent stay. Aidan is prone to jumping up and down, flapping his arms, wringing his hands and talking to himself. But he can also look at just about any snake and tell you where it comes from, what type of poison it has and how it could kill you, Krawchuk said. It literally scares me. All the fighting we did to get him in there, Krawchuk said. Im trying not to panic, but at the same time its a huge fear. Maya Irving, the mother of Valentina, said her daughter couldnt read properly before starting Anova in 2015. In a regular classroom setting, she was a wallflower who was so quiet she never posed behavioral concerns. But she had scabs over her arms from incessant scratching and intense migraines from stress. Irving credits the school and doctors from UCSF with saving her daughter from suicidal ideation. Now in a specialized environment, Valentina reads like nobodys business. When Irving asked her daughter what Anova meant, Valentina replied, no bullying and I feel very safe there. She cries every time she goes to bed at night ever since she found out about the fire, Irving said. Its just devastating because we cant pick up and go to a different school. Kathleen OBrien, Olivers mom, said her sons first four years of schooling gave him post-traumatic stress disorder. Even when he started at Anova, hed cry throughout the day and refuse to do work. He hated school, OBrien said Monday. School was just such a place of trauma and shame and failure. But Oliver who still doesnt like school too much became more centered, in his two years at Anova, and made the first friends of his life. He has made tremendous progress. Hes learned tools there. Hes been given an opportunity there to experience success; to feel good about himself, OBrien said. Theres nothing else that exists like this that can serve these kids and prevent them from suffering all day every day at school. Jenna Lyons is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jlyons@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JennaJourno How to help: To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/anova This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate They didnt know his name. They only knew he seemed to have figured out how they could survive. As the Tubbs Fire cut a wide path through northern Santa Rosa early Oct. 9, 35 people huddled in their cars in a parking lot in the hills above town. The oldest was 91, the youngest 4 months. They had tried to drive to safety, but there was no way. Now the fire was on both sides, and they were terrified. They had been led to the parking lot by a Sonoma County sheriffs deputy who didnt dare let on how scared he was. Deputy Mark Aldridges shift started at 7 oclock the previous evening. A pretty normal night, he said. The first call came at 10 p.m. to evacuate houses at Mark West Springs and Porter Creek roads. There had been grass fires everywhere, so it was kind of nonchalant at the beginning, he said. Kind of no big deal. But the deep red glow toward the east was unnerving. Aldridge joined other deputies banging on doors on the 3600 block of Porter Creek and yelling, Sheriffs office! He would wait, but not long before moving onto the next house. People would say, How much time do I have? And you say, None. You need to leave now. He could see flames. They were as high as a 10-story building, and the winds pushing them toward him were blowing at 50 mph. A driver headed down the hill pointed to a house just above Mark West Lodge, an event center surrounded by wooded hills. There was an older couple in the house and they werent leaving, the driver told Aldridge. The deputy went up to the house and found the couple trying to catch and load their seven cats into their cars. They had found five. I told them to (leave) the cats, Aldridge said, although his choice of words was more urgent and less polite. They followed him out in two cars and another car pulled in behind him. But down the road, it was just a wall of flames, Aldridge said. He turned the caravan around. His boss, Sgt. Brandon Cutting, was ahead of him, his body camera capturing the chaos of falling trees and wires, the embers, flames. On the video, he yells into his radio, No pass! Do not pass! He was talking to Aldridge. The deputy steered his evacuees back to the Mark West Lodge parking lot, which holds about 30 cars. It was 12:30 a.m. More people started pulling into the lot, their escape routes blocked. Aldridge had no firefighters to help him, no way to fight the flames except for a small fire extinguisher he kept in his car. He took peoples names, cracked jokes, kept people calm, said Mike Mendenhall, 56, one of those who had taken refuge in the parking lot. Now Playing: Wine Country Fires Video: San Francisco Chronicle You could tell he was struggling a little, Mendenhall said. But he pulled it off. Out of the earshot of children, he told their parents, Look, if this overruns us, you stay in your car. Its going to burn right over us and you might need a new paint job. He told them to put clothing over the inside of the windows to reflect the heat. He didnt tell them he was scared, too. We could hear the trees exploding as it kept getting closer, said Jennifer Arrington, 46, who was with her 12-year-old son, Tommy, and their two large dogs. We could hear it marching, things exploding, getting closer. The glow got brighter. We could see the heat wave. Aldridge kept everyone calm. They talked about their families, Arrington said, and at one point he stopped by to give her son a fruit snack that his own son had left behind in his car. Oh, God, now your mom is going to be mad at me because she has to go buy them for you, he told her son. It was community banter, Aldridge said. It was parents. It wasnt like, Im the sheriff. But the deputy was keeping a sharp eye on the fire. He didnt remember until later that he had proposed to his wife in the lodge, when it was still a restaurant. And he didnt remember that his father, a volunteer firefighter, defended the lodge when the last fire roared through the area in 1964. Instead, he was focused on his radio, the scanner traffic tracking evacuations in Fountaingrove, the fire jumping the freeway and pushing through Coffey Park. I remember feeling helpless that Im not down there, Aldridge said. All through the night, his evacuees asked if they would be all right. I told them, Were going to be all right, he said. The whole night I was like, Everything is going to be fine. Most of the night, he feared that was a lie. The fire drew near at one point, just over the hill, and he told everyone to shelter in place, to stay in their cars. He thought their only hope was that the fire would pass over them quickly. And then, suddenly, the wind shifted. It never got that close again. Without Aldridge, Joe Grey believes, there would have been panic in the parking lot. There were grown men there starting to lose it, Grey said. If he hadnt been there, people would have probably left, gone every which way. Grey doesnt believe anyone would have made it out had they tried to flee. Hours into the ordeal, after children finally fell asleep in the backseats of cars, a tender and engine from the Mountain Volunteer Fire Department in Calistoga made it through and pulled into the parking lot. And as dawn broke, Sgt. Cutting made his way up to the lodge and helped lead the caravan of cars down the hill, through debris and downed power lines. Aldridge brought up the rear, making sure everyone got down. At the bottom, they told the evacuees about available shelters. And then they drove away, said Aldridge, who drove home to hug his kids and tell his wife he loved her before heading back to work. The fire had come within 100 yards of the lodge, burning everything around them. Then it had skipped off to the side. The lodge survived, too. Mendenhall said hes trying to contact Aldridge. Hed like to buy him dinner or at least a beer, something for saving so many lives. On Tuesday, after Arrington figured out who the mystery deputy was, she called and left him a message thanking him. He was a human, she said. He was a dad. He was the best. Aldridge doesnt feel like he did anything special. I didnt do anything anybody else wouldnt have done, he said. But it wasnt anyone else. It was Aldridge. He still thinks about the people who refused to leave when deputies banged on their doors that night. And he thinks about what could have happened had the wind kept blowing in their direction instead of shifting. But he doesnt dwell on that. It stays with you, but you put it on the back burner, he said. You keep doing your job. Chronicle staff writer Hamed Aleaziz contributed to this report. Jill Tucker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jtucker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jilltucker I have always lived on top of a hill," says tobacco packaging entrepreneur John Roscoe, a self-avowed libertarian and a former Air Force man who does not like to be boxed in. His previous home in Alamo, designed by architect Joseph Esherick, was also on a hill. But in Solano County he and his wife Marilyn have reached their zenith. They own 1,700 acres of grassy hills and woods just south of Napa that contain the Twin Sisters, the two highest summits in the area. The lower of the two affords the couple a site with 360 degree views that include the Golden Gate Bridge and Mt. Diablo. The Roscoes, both in their 70s, spent years acquiring this land in tiny parcels and they didn't want to spoil such magnificent terrain with a mediocre addition. They wanted a stunning house, large open spaces and glass walls to bring in views of the surrounding valleys. Which is where Belgium-born architect Helena Arahuete comes into the picture. RELATED VIDEO: This Couple Just Bought an Entire Street for $90,000 Now Playing: A lucky couple just purchased a mansion-lined street in San Francisco for the low price of $90,000. Video: Brandpoint Decades ago, Roscoe and his wife had discovered Esherick by looking in the yellow pages. They got lucky again. In 2000, thumbing through books at Rizzoli they found images of buildings by John Lautner, called his office in Los Angeles and asked for him. Lautner, California's iconic Modernist, was a former apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright and Arahuete had become his principal designer in the 1970s. She inherited Lautner's practice when he died in 1994. She told the Roscoes that while Lautner was regrettably unavailable, she was happy to help. Of Eastern-European descent, Arahuete grew up in Buenos Aires. In 1971, when Lautner was working on a project in Mexico, Arahuete's facility with Spanish and her brand of modernism became an asset to Lautner. Now at the helm of John Lautner Associates, Arahuete is putting her own formidable stamp on California architecture. For this project, her first Bay Area house, Arahuete designed a hexagonal, two-story aerie, simple in plan yet structurally complex. Before she got started, Arahuete stood on the site looking for the best views, a key item on Roscoe's list of requirements. Views were plentiful all around. "That's why the house is so transparent," says Arahuete, who designed a central courtyard and perimeter walls with few posts and plenty of glass; beams and sloped roofs taper to a thin edge for an illusion of lightness. "You have expansive views from anywhere in the house because the top floor is one big open space," she says. However, ceiling heights are varied to make the large contiguous spaces seem less monolithic. The staggered heights also allow north-facing clerestory windows between sections to bring in even more light. "They love to read by natural light," explains Arahuete. On the top floor, where the only rooms set apart are the master bedroom and bathrooms, segments of the hexagon contain living, dining and kitchen areas. The lower level, partially embedded into the crest of the hill, contains a couple of bedrooms (with slide-away partitions) for children or grandchildren who live nearby, a library, exercise room, utility rooms and a garage. Four cast-concrete fireplaces inside, and two fire pits on the decks that cantilever off the second story provide gathering spots for the family. Stainless-steel roofs over each section fan around the courtyard like wings on a pinwheel. Even the walls are irregularly angled simply because the Roscoes prefer angular forms to rounded shapes, says Arahuete. The result is dramatic. Still, "It is not really prominent. From a distance it looks like nothing more than a tree on top of the hill," says Roscoe. Wood ceilings counter the acoustically harsh glass and concrete surfaces. Triangular and hexagonal shapes inset into the ceilings reflect the basic geometry of the structure and hide acoustical, heating and lighting systems. These Wrightian motifs hover over furniture groupings. The most impressive section of the house contains a blue tiled swimming pool that slips under the perimeter glass walls onto a deck suspended over the steep hillside. On fine days the glass panels above the pool are slid open, allowing Roscoe to get into the deep end indoors and swim out into the open air. In effect the cantilevered pool is a cupped concrete deck that is moored deep into the hillside and waterproofed; the actual pool is set into it. "It is a pool within a pool, like a Russian tea cup sitting in a glass," says Arahuete. The pool's 50-foot by 14-foot custom size was also carefully calculated to align with the 15 foot-high by 7 foot-wide glass sliding doors. "That was the largest tempered glass I could find," she explains. A hexagonal hot tub on the pool deck echoes the building plan. South African slate floors that surround the pools also flow back seamlessly into the interior. Roscoe loves the practicality of these washable floors. The rest of the interior design is a combination of things from their old home and custom designs by John Wheatman Associates of San Francisco. "I really let John do his thing," says Marilyn Roscoe. Wheatman planned built-ins and some free-standing upholstered seating in the space. Art consultant Gene Ramey picked the artworks the Roscoes have collected in the last 30 years but most of it is still in storage. "There are few walls to hang art," she says. A couple of textile panels by Mark Adams on the walls indicate there may be other such highlights hidden away. "We are simple people," says Roscoe, as if to explain why they stayed out of Arahuete's and Wheatman's way. So why did they want such an impressive house on such a site? "To think great thoughts," says Roscoe readily. "I've always tried to figure out how the world works," he says. In Southern California, he would write 'bagatorials' for grocery bags used at the Cheaper! grocery stores they owned. The topics, usually well researched and vetted by lawyers, included politically charged ideas. "During California's drought we found there wasn't any drought at all. Consumers just used 10 percent of the available water and agriculture used the rest." Another expose dwelt on the pensions of the California Highway Patrol. His revelations were published by Simon & Schuster with a foreword by political humorist Ian Shoales. Lately, as the new king of this mountain that the Suisun Indians once roamed, Roscoe is scrutinizing Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. For the more soft-spoken, less assertive Marilyn Roscoe, simply living in such a space is enough. "The vistas we see morning and night are life-changing, " she says. The house meets their smallest needs, including hooks concealed on the roof that allow them to string up winter lights in the form of a giant tree in the sheltered courtyard. It was an item they specified in their wish list but didn't really think Arahuete would remember. "Sure we had a list, but we couldn't have designed this ourselves," says Roscoe. But, in some ways they did. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A Yolo County high school teacher was placed on paid leave after kneeling during the national anthem, administrators said. Woodland High School chemistry teacher Windy Pappas took a knee at a Friday homecoming rally as the speakers blared the "Star Spangled Banner." She held two signs reading, "Black Lives Matter" and "It's OK to disagree with every sign here," according to a photo of the protest circulating on social media. The assembly continued without incident after Pappas' protest. Later in the afternoon and through Monday Pappas was placed on paid leave while administration conducted an investigation, said Woodland Joint Unified School District spokesperson Callie Lutz. Pappas returned to the classroom Tuesday. SFGATE could not immediately reach Pappas for comment, but the teacher told Woodland's the Daily Democrat that she encourages "students to express their opinions" and that she had told them her plans to kneel prior to the assembly. "I really feel like my students that are in my classroom know that. I told my students that all lives matter," she said. Woodland High parent Amy Plunkett told SFGATE that she supports Pappas' protest and felt administration treated her unjustly. "Minority students are afraid to speak up here it seems, and I'm grateful that what she did has started a dialogue in the community," Plunkett said. "Many people still do not understand what the movement is truly about. By her taking action, many are finally educating themselves and changing perspective." Lutz said the district hopes to use this incident as "a learning opportunity." She said, "As a district, we fully support the free speech rights of our students and appropriate involvement of staff in facilitating conversations in school." Read Michelle Robertsons latest stories and send her news tips at mrobertson@sfchronicle.com. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A logging companys lawsuit accusing Greenpeace and another environmental group of libel and racketeering for describing the company as a forest destroyer was dismissed Monday by a San Francisco federal judge, who said the organizations were exercising their freedom of speech. Resolute Forest Products alleged that Greenpeace and a Bay Area nonprofit called Stand had engaged in a disinformation campaign, starting in 2012, about the companys logging in the boreal forest of northern and western Canada to boost their own fundraising. The company said Greenpeace had to retract its initial claim that its logging had violated the terms of an environmental agreement, and had falsely accused Resolute of endangering caribou in an area where the company did little logging. Greenpeace also labeled Resolute as a forest destroyer even though it logs only a small part of the forest, the company said. Overall, the company said in its lawsuit, Greenpeace has published whopping lies ... misrepresenting Resolutes harvesting as a major climate change risk. The company filed its suit in May 2016 in federal court in Georgia, but a judge there transferred the case to San Francisco, finding that it was closely connected to events and organizations in the Bay Area. On Monday, U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar dismissed the case and ordered Resolute Forest Products to reimburse the environmental groups for their attorneys fees and court costs. Under U.S. Supreme Court rulings, a public figure who is suing for libel must prove not only that another persons statements were false and damaging, but also that they were knowingly or recklessly false. Tigar said Resolute Forest Products, which describes itself as the worlds largest producer of newsprint, is a public figure in the lumber industry, and had failed to offer evidence of lies or reckless falsehoods by the environmental groups. At most, Tigar said, the company alleged that Greenpeace relied on inaccurate photos in wrongly accusing the company of violating the environmental agreement. The forest destroyer label is commonplace hyperbole, not a literal accusation, the judge said, and other contested statements by the environmentalists are based on their own scientific research. The academy, and not the courthouse, is the appropriate place to resolve scientific disagreements, Tigar said. He also said the companys complaints about Greenpeaces fundraising were misplaced, since any deceptive tactics would have affected only the donors. The judge said Resolute could try to meet his objections by rewriting its lawsuit. Attorney Michael Bowe said the company will correct those purported deficiencies and proceed with the case. The company is wasting its time, said Daniel Brindis of Greenpeace USA. It is time for Resolute to finally work with environmental organizations, including Greenpeace, to address their destructive forestry operations and forge a sustainable and collaborative path forward, he said. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @egelko UPDATE: Southbound U.S. Highway 101 has reopened in Sausalito this evening after some lanes were closed this afternoon due to a pair of roadside fires in the area, according to the California Highway Patrol. ----- Multiple lanes of southbound Highway 101 were closed Tuesday afternoon as firefighters battled two brush fires near the freeway at Rodeo Avenue between Marin City and Sausalito. The fires are each about one to two acres in size and were under control as of 1:59 p.m, Marin County spokesperson Laine Hendricks said. One lane of southbound Highway 101 was reopened by 2:50 p.m., Lieutenant Scott Harrington of the Marin County Sheriffs Office said. The fire was reported to the California Highway Patrol at 11:58 a.m. Crews from throughout Marin County, including the Mill Valley Fire Departments, were fighting the blaze with assistance from Cal Fire, Hendricks said. Cal Fire dispatched an air tanker that bombarded the blaze with fire retardant. The area near Cloudview Road, Cloudview Trail and Wolfpack Ridge Road was briefly evacuated earlier on Tuesday, but the order was lifted at 1:36 p.m. No evacuation orders are currently under way. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 5 1 of 5 Marin County Fire Show More Show Less 2 of 5 Twitter / @bobstone33 Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 Ashley Meigs / Courtesy of Ashley Meigs / Show More Show Less 5 of 5 CHP did not provide an estimate on when the southbound lanes of the highway will reopen. Traffic is currently being diverted off the freeway at Marin City and drivers are recommended to use alternate routes. No homes were damaged or threatened by the fire, Harrington said. There was no word on the cause of the fire. Annie Ma is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ama@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @anniema15 Dropbox Inc. introduced a new cloud-based file-sharing option for individual business users and a new feature for marketing and creative workers to share projects, seeking to lure more paying customers ahead of an expected public share sale. Dropbox Professional is a new tier in the companys list of paid subscription plans and is intended for independent workers, while the existing Dropbox Business service is priced for teams or companies, said senior director of product management Robert Baesman. The new option includes Dropbox Showcase, which lets employees organize all their work into a single portfolio. Showcase then lets them track whether the client receiving the portfolio looked at it, interacted with it or shared it. Dropbox could file its initial public offering documents as soon as this year, people familiar with the matter said in July. The San Francisco company is a major seller of software for file-sharing and synchronizing, but is trying to boost revenue by providing new programs that help workers create, edit, share and track work projects. Its a market that will put Dropbox even further into competition with companies like Google and Microsoft Corp. Technolgoy AI to manage ETF fund San Franciscos EquBot LLC is launching the first ever exchange-traded fund to use artificial intelligence, the company said Tuesday. Employing International Business Machines Corp.s Watson platform, the AI Powered Equity ETF, ticker AIEQ, will attempt to mimic an army of equity research analysts working around the clock, according to Art Amador, co-founder of EquBot. The fund, which is being run in partnership with ETF Managers Group of Summit, New Jersey, will use AI and machine learning to scan more than 6,000 U.S. publicly traded companies each day to create a diversified fund, Amador said. The program will parse regulatory filings, more than a million news stories, company management profiles, sentiment gauges and financial models to establish a portfolio of 30 to 70 stocks. Startups Chase to buy startup WePay JPMorgan Chase & Co., the New York bank, said it would acquire WePay, a payment-processing startup in Palo Alto. The price was not disclosed. WePay, with approximately 200 employees, had previously raised $74 million from venture capitalists, and its investors valued the company at $220 million in a 2015 financing, the Wall Street Journal reported. The deal would allow Chase to sign up small businesses more efficiently and let them get paid for credit card purchases more quickly. Chase had previously invested in San Francisco payments company Square, but it is now increasingly seeking to compete with it and other upstarts like Stripe. Executives Amazon exec steps down Amazon Studios says it has accepted the resignation of its top executive, Roy Price, following sexual harassment allegations made by Isa Hackett, a producer on the Amazon series The Man in the High Castle. Price was put on leave last week and had not been expected to return. The accusations against Price came in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal. Following allegations of sexual harassment against Weinstein, the movie and television studio he helped to found swiftly fired him. On Tuesday, during a meeting convened to affirm that dismissal, Weinstein phoned in and resigned from the Weinstein Co.s board. Chronicle News Services A top federal government cybersecurity watchdog issued an advisory on Monday, warning people to update their devices to protect against a newly discovered vulnerability that affects nearly every modern Wi-Fi network even those that are protected. The U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Teams announcement comes after a security expert at the University of Leuven in Belgium published findings that showed that a widely used encryption system for wireless networks could give attackers an opening to steal sensitive information such as emails, chat histories and credit card numbers. The exploit would allow hackers to eavesdrop on Internet traffic between computers and wireless access points. The findings are significant because of the wide range of devices that could be affected. The attack works against all modern protected Wi-Fi networks, Mathy Vanhoef said on a website he created to share his research. Depending on the network configuration, it is also possible to inject and manipulate data. For example, an attacker might be able to inject ransomware or other malware into websites. Vanhoef said any device that supports Wi-Fi probably leaves itself vulnerable to this attack, called Krack, for Key Reinstallation Attack. During our initial research, we discovered ourselves that Android, Linux, Apple, Windows, OpenBSD, MediaTek, Linksys and others, are all affected by some variant of the attacks, he noted on the website. Cisco, Intel and Samsung are among the companies whose products were affected but have since updated their devices. Microsoft said, We have released a security update for all supported versions of Windows. Customers who applied the update, or have automatic updates enabled, will already be protected. We continue to encourage customers to turn on automatic updates to help ensure they benefit from the latest protections available. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but Vanhoef noted that iOS and Windows devices were not the most vulnerable to the exploit. The attack, however, is exceptionally devastating for devices that run Android 6.0, Vanhoef found. Google did not respond to a request for comment. Vanhoef noted that even when Internet users connect to secure websites that use the HTTPS protocol, they still may be at risk. Although websites or apps may use HTTPS as an additional layer of protection, we warn that this extra protection can (still) be bypassed in a worrying number of situations, he said. Though he acknowledged that some of the attack scenarios discussed in his research are impractical to pull off, he said the bottom line is that you should still update all your devices once security updates are available. Hamza Shaban is a Washington Post writer. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Three former Tesla factory workers are suing the Bay Area automaker for abuse, racism and harassment they say they experienced on the job. The men, all of whom are black, filed a lawsuit Monday in Alameda County that calls the company a hotbed for racist behavior and accuses Tesla supervisors and workers of using racial epithets and drawing a Jim Crow-era caricature of black children on cardboard boxes inside the companys Fremont factory. Tesla has denied those claims. There are over 33,000 people working at Tesla, and given our size, we recognize that unfortunately at times there will be cases of harassment or discrimination in corners of the company, a Tesla spokesman said. In situations where Tesla is at fault, we will never seek to avoid responsibility. But in this instance, from what we know so far, this does not seem to be such a case. Lamar Patterson and father and son Owen Diaz and Demetric Diaz were contractors, hired to work at Tesla by third-party companies. According to the lawsuit, Demetric Diaz, who worked as a production associate at the Tesla factory, complained to the staffing agency about racial slurs being hurled at him by co-workers on a regular basis, but the company did nothing. He was fired shortly after complaining about the abuse to a Tesla supervisor in December 2015, the lawsuit states. Demetric believed that his employment was terminated because he objected to the racist harassment and discrimination, the document says. Patterson and the elder Diaz both quit in 2016 after suffering or witnessing similar abuse and deciding that enough was enough, according to the legal filing. Both men said they were told their supervisor at Tesla would look into the issue, but no action was ultimately taken. Tesla said it was unaware of these complaints and that the company only learned of them after being contacted by two media outlets who were covering the lawsuit. California Civil Rights Group, the law firm representing the three plaintiffs, sued Tesla earlier this year in a similar case of alleged racial abuse at the companys Fremont factory. Tesla said the company had previously refused lead attorney Larry Organs demand for a seven-figure payment in order to resolve the matter, so he filed a lawsuit. None of the plaintiffs in this case has filed complaints with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the state Department of Fair Employment and Housing, both agencies that handle at-work issues of discrimination and harassment. Thus far, the only somewhat relevant evidence we have found is an email from Owen Diaz to his supervisor from October 2015 in which Mr. Diaz claimed that a co-worker was yelling and making aggressive comments, the Tesla spokesman said. That email made no mention of the use of any racist language or epithets. Now Playing: According to Business Insider, Tesla shares took about a 2 percent dip on Monday, after a big announcement. On Friday Tesla revealed that they let go of 400 employees. This included managers. The firings occurred after employee performance reviews and in the midst of production slowdowns. CEO Elon Musk said that "The first ever mass-marketed car from Tesla is being restricted by 'production bottlenecks.'" Business Insider explained that "welding the steel parts of the car is proving difficult for the company, as it is used to building cars out of aluminum." Video: Wochit This lawsuit marks the latest labor dispute Tesla has faced this year, and the second lawsuit alleging racist conditions inside its factory. Tesla fired hundreds of workers last week after poor performance reviews that may have been related to what CEO Elon Musk called production bottlenecks on the companys Model 3 car. Earlier this year, the National Labor Relations Board filed an official complaint against Tesla, accusing the auto-tech company of violating their workers rights by suppressing efforts to unionize. A hearing before an NLRB judge in Oakland is scheduled to start on Nov. 14. Marissa Lang is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mlang@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Marissa_Jae Larry Pages city of the future has found its first home in Toronto. Sidewalk Labs LLC, the urban innovation unit of Pages Alphabet Inc., and Waterfront Toronto plan to foster the development of a high-tech community from scratch along Lake Ontario in Canadas biggest city. The area aims to become an innovation hub for technologies that improve city life, from green energy systems to self-driving transit and new construction techniques that can lower housing costs, the companies said. This is the culmination of about 10 years of thinking about how technology can improve peoples lives, Alphabet Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt said at a news conference in Toronto on Tuesday. Schmidt was joined by New Yorks Sidewalk Labs Chief Executive Officer Dan Doctoroff and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Sidewalk Toronto will dedicate $50 million to planning the project, which will begin with a new neighborhood called Quayside and eventually extend into the Eastern Waterfront, more than 800 acres in one of North Americas largest undeveloped urban parcels. Googles Canadian headquarters will relocate to the development from the west end to support the project. Alphabets investment comes amid a technology boom in the city, driven by a thriving startup scene, a surge in artificial intelligence research and increased funding into the sector from the federal government. But Sidewalk Torontos project isnt just a boost for the tech community itll also be battling the citys housing crunch. The project will aim to create new models of affordable housing and flexible retail, the companies said. Earlier this year, Waterfront Toronto, a public corporation created by Canadian officials in 2001 to revitalize land along Lake Ontario, requested proposals to develop a new community called Quayside along with a private partner. Quayside would be a testbed for emerging technologies, materials and processes that will address these challenges and advance solutions that can be replicated in cities worldwide, according to city officials. Sidewalk Labs, created in 2015, was one of Googles first independent units before it turned into the Alphabet holding company. One of its most visible projects so far has been LinkNYC, a network of ad-supported Wi-Fi kiosks in New York City run by Intersection, a Sidewalk Labs investment. Natalie Wong is a Bloomberg writer. Email: nwong133@bloomberg.net WASHINGTON Two Chinese men have been indicted on charges they manufactured tons of fentanyl and other powerful narcotics that were then peddled in the United States, killing at least four people and seriously injuring five others, Justice Department officials announced Tuesday. Authorities said the men controlled one of the most prolific international drug-trafficking organizations, but with no extradition treaty with China, the chances are slim they will ever be brought to the U.S. to face the charges. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Attorneys in San Francisco on Monday began questioning prospective jurors for one of San Franciscos most notorious murder cases: the killing of 32-year-old Kate Steinle by an undocumented homeless man. Its a widely discussed case that President Trump used in his campaign to argue that Americans have been unsafe due to lax immigration enforcement in San Francisco and other sanctuary cities. Prosecutors and defense attorneys are seeking to impanel a group of people who can look beyond the political implications of the case and decide, on the facts alone, the fate of Jose Ines Garcia Zarate, a Mexican citizen who was wanted for deportation by federal agents when his San Francisco jailers set him free 2 months before the shooting. He is accused of firing a gun on Pier 14 on July 1, 2015. The single bullet pierced Steinles back as she took a stroll with her arm around her father. Police arrested Zarate, who previously went by the name Juan Francisco Lopez Sanchez, and he admitted handling the gun that fired the round. Would anyone here be unwilling to return a verdict if they knew the president of the United States wouldnt like it? Matt Gonzalez, an attorney for Zarate, asked prospective jurors who packed the sweltering courtroom. Some laughed, though some uneasily, at Gonzalezs remark. Zarate had been on track for a sixth deportation after serving 46 months in prison for felony re-entry into the country. The case sparked a push against the policies that enabled his release, with the House of Representatives passing Kates Law in June legislation that would significantly boost punishment for people who repeatedly enter the U.S. illegally. San Francisco has fought back, saying sanctuary laws benefit public safety by ensuring that immigrants, including witnesses to crimes, feel comfortable working with authorities. On Monday, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Samuel K. Feng told the prospective jurors that sanctuary city policies would not be an issue that would be decided in this case, and Assistant District Attorney Diana Garcia began her questioning by stating that she was the daughter of Spanish-speaking immigrants. A lot of you are angry that this has been used to promote a political agenda that you do not agree with, she said. Im here to tell you that that will not be a part of the case. While both the prosecution and the defense were adamant that Zarates immigration status would play no role in the case, their questions indicated that the issue of gun control will arise during trial. The gun used in Steinles killing had been stolen from a U.S. Bureau of Land Management rangers car four days earlier in the city, and Zarate, who was homeless, said he found the weapon wrapped in a T-shirt under a bench, according to his attorneys. The burglary remains unsolved. His attorneys say the shooting was an accident, with the bullet ricocheting off the ground before striking Steinle. Gonzalez had previously implied that he planned to call several gun experts to testify that the .40-caliber Sig Sauer semiautomatic pistol used in the shooting was prone to accidental discharges. The Bureau of Land Management ranger who owned the gun is scheduled to testify. Prosecutors charged Zarate with second-degree murder because he either aimed the gun at Steinle or recklessly fired the weapon in a crowded area. On Monday, Garcia noted that most of the prospective jurors stated on their questionnaires that they were anti-gun, with one going so far as saying that law enforcement shouldnt even be allowed to carry firearms. Beyond the gun, Garcias and Gonzalezs questions highlighted their concerns about the case. Garcia asked the prospective jurors if they felt they could decide a case where there are no eyewitnesses to the shooting itself, while Gonzalez asked if they could look past the emotional component that Steinle was an innocent bystander who essentially died in the arms of her father. Does anyone here believe that if someone died innocently that someone has to be punished for it? he asked. The questioning of jurors continues Tuesday. Vivian Ho is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: vho@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @VivianHo A 52-year-old man found shot in the Visitacion Valley neighborhood of San Francisco, died being taken to a hospital, and police said Monday that his killer remains unidentified. The victim, identified by the city Medical Examiners office as Dwayne LaBlanc of Oakland, was found just before midnight Saturday suffering from at least one gunshot wound in the 200 block of Blythdale Avenue, near John McLaren Park. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate One can imagine that when Touko Laaksonen finally arrives in Los Angeles and realizes the full impact his work hath wrought, it went down much the way it did in Dome Karukoskis biopic Tom of Finland. Operating in near secrecy in Finland during the 1950s and 60s, working on nights and weekends around his gig in a Helsinki advertising firm, Laaksonens drawings of fearless, strong gay men captured the worldwide imagination of a culture in the closet. Its not a stretch to say he helped create the leather culture he was particularly fascinated by motorcycles, muscles and leather. (He ran a motorcycle club in Helsinki without the motorcycles a.k.a. an underground gay nightclub.) The effect was self-empowerment, confidence and strength of a culture viewed by mainstream society as sissies. And yet, as portrayed by Pekka Strang, who deftly handles playing a character across five decades, Laaksonen was not much like, say, his comic book alter ego Kake. He was a mild-mannered advertising executive who lived with his lover, Veli (Lauri Tilkanen), and sister Kaija (Jessica Grabowsky), also a talented artist who works at the same firm. The brother-sister dynamic is especially well-developed she is a homophobe who loves her gay brother. The film starts during World War II, when Touko is a lieutenant in the Finnish army. In Karukoskis vision, Touko is affected most by a platonic relationship with a fellow officer, married and in the closet, and his killing of a Russian paratrooper on the field of battle. (He later assuages his guilt by imagining the dead Russian as a magnificent, leather-clad hero in his drawings.) Laaksonen tries peddling his drawings in the gay underground of Helsinki and Berlin at a time when not only was homosexuality illegal, but possession of such relatively benign (by todays standards) drawings was as well. Its just a drawing, Tuoko says to his old war friend, now a diplomat, after a run-in with authorities in Berlin. Its not just a drawing, his friend replies. Its an atomic bomb. Its not until he sends an unsolicited envelope full of his work to Bob Mizer, the Los Angeles editor of Physique Pictorial magazine, that his career takes off. He signs his work Tom, as an Americanization of Touko, and Mizer had the genius stroke to create the rest of the pseudonym, Tom of Finland. Tom of Finland is a good, strong movie, but never threatens to be great. One salivates at the adventurous directions the film could have explored. Karukoski is obviously trying to appeal to the masses here. His re-creation of 1940s and 50s Finland is top-notch, and Strangs sensitive, dimensional portrayal relies on not so much words but presence and thats a really good thing. Besides, its high time Tom of Finland becomes more known to the world. He was essentially the first gay manga artist, and his work was so influential and accomplished that many of the worlds great museums including SFMOMA and the Berkeley Art Museum have his art in their permanent collections. G. Allen Johnson is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ajohnson@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BRfilmsAllen Tom of Finland Drama. Starring Pekka Strang, Lauri Tilkanen, Jessica Grabowsky. Directed by Dome Karukoski. In Finnish and English with subtitles. (Not rated. 116 minutes.) 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. HONOLULU A federal judge in Hawaii blocked the Trump administration Tuesday from enforcing its latest travel ban just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the presidents revised order suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor. It was the third set of travel restrictions issued by President Trump to be thwarted in some way by the courts. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson issued the ruling after the ban was challenged by the state of Hawaii, which warned that the restrictions would separate families and undermine the recruiting of diverse college students. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the ruling dangerously flawed and said it undercuts the presidents efforts to keep the American people safe. The Justice Department said it will quickly appeal. At issue was a ban, announced in September and set to go into effect early Wednesday, on travelers from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, along with some Venezuelan government officials and their families. The Trump administration said the ban was based on an assessment of each countrys security situation and willingness to share information with the U.S. Watson, appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama, said the new restrictions ignore a federal appeals court ruling that found Trumps previous ban exceeded the scope of his authority. The latest version plainly discriminates based on nationality in the manner that the 9th Circuit has found antithetical to ... the founding principles of this nation, Watson wrote. The judges ruling does not affect the restrictions against North Korea or Venezuela, because the state of Hawaii did not ask for that. This is the third time Hawaii has gone to court to stop President Trump from issuing a travel ban that discriminates against people based on their nation of origin or religion, Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said in a statement. Today is another victory for the rule of law. Hawaii argued that the updated ban was a continuation of Trumps campaign call for a ban on Muslims, despite the addition to the list of two countries without a Muslim majority. In his ruling, the judge said the new ban, like its predecessor, fails to show that nationality alone makes a person a greater security risk to the U.S. Jennifer Sinco Kelleher is an Associated Press writer. WASHINGTON A pair of leading Republican and Democratic senators reached an agreement Tuesday to fund key federal health care subsidies that President Trump ended last week and the president expressed support for the plan. But it was unclear whether Senate GOP leaders would embrace the proposal, leaving its long-term prospects in doubt. The compromise from Sens. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., and Patty Murray, D-Wash., would provide states with greater flexibility under the Affordable Care Act in exchange for authorizing cost-sharing reduction payments known as CSRs for two years. Those payments help offset deductibles and other out-of-pocket costs for low-income consumers who obtain insurance under the Affordable Care Act. The proposal would also allow insurers to offer catastrophic insurance plans to consumers age 30 and older on ACA exchanges, while maintaining a single risk pool. Yes, we have been involved, and this is a short-term deal because we think ultimately block grants going to the states is going to be the answer, said Trump, referring to a Republican push to block-grant health care funding individually to states. His comments came just days after he moved to end the payments and punt the issued to Congress. Republican leaders did not immediate embrace the plan, raising new questions about whether it would find any traction. We havent had a chance to think about the way forward yet, said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., at his weekly news conference, minutes after the deal was announced about 20 feet away outside a Republican policy luncheon. Sean Sullivan and Juliet Eilperin are Washington Post writers. WASHINGTON President Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell sought to project unity Monday amid heightening tensions between the president and Senate Republicans that threaten to complicate the GOPs fall legislative agenda and midterm election strategy. At a joint news conference at the White House, Trump and McConnell tried to dismiss media reports of their troubled relationship and to demonstrate that they are on the same page when it comes to the effort to rewrite the nations tax laws. But one uncomfortable element of the dynamic between McConnell and Trump continued to loom over the two men: the actions of Stephen Bannon, Trumps former chief strategist. Bannon is waging an effort to unseat Republican senators loyal to the majority leader in the midterms by backing insurgent primary challengers. Trump said Monday that he has a very good relationship with Bannon. At the same time, he hinted he might try to persuade him not to take on certain GOP senators. Some of the people that he may be looking at Im going to see if we talk him out of that, because frankly theyre great people, said Trump. He did not specify who he had in mind. McConnell explained that his midterm goal is simply to keep Republicans in control of the Senate majority. Winners make policy, and losers go home, he said bluntly. Trump and McConnell both said they are aiming to complete a sweeping revision of the nations tax laws by the end of this year, although they left open the possibility that might not happen. We have the same agenda, the majority leader said. Earlier in the day, the tensions between Republican senators and Trump were on display at a Cabinet meeting where the president empathized with Bannon and blamed Senate Republicans for the GOPs legislative woes. Trump said at the meeting that Bannon was very committed to getting things passed. He added: Were not getting the job done. And Im not going to blame myself, Im going to be honest. They are not getting the job done. WASHINGTON President Trump on Tuesday warned Sen. John McCain that I fight back after McCain questioned half-baked, spurious nationalism in Americas foreign policy. McCain, a former Navy pilot who spent 5 years in a Vietnam prisoner of war camp and is battling brain cancer, offered a simple response to Trump: I have faced tougher adversaries. Trump said in a radio interview with WMAL in Washington, Im being very, very nice but at some point I fight back and it wont be pretty. He bemoaned McCains decisive vote this past summer in opposition to a GOP bill to dismantle former President Barack Obamas Affordable Care Act, a move that caused the failure of GOP efforts to repeal and replace Obamacare. In Philadelphia on Monday night, the six-term Republican senator from Arizona received an award for a lifetime of service and sacrifice to the country. In addition to recalling his more than two decades of military service and his imprisonment during the war, McCain took a moment to go a step further than the nights other speakers, who lamented what many described as a fractured political climate. To abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems, he said, is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. He continued: We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil. Former Vice President Joe Biden presented McCain with the Liberty Medal. Though members of opposing parties, the two men worked together during their time in the Senate. Obama, who defeated McCain in his bid for the presidency in 2008, congratulated the senator on the award in a tweet Monday night. The back-and-forth between the president and McCain represented the latest skirmish between the two Republican party heavyweights and another example of Trump tangling with GOP senators who could undermine his agenda in Congress. Trump in recent weeks has feuded with Tennessee Sen. Bob Corker and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Ken Thomas is an Associated Press writer. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate As early as 2020, Californians will be able to pursue a new option for end-of-life remains: water cremation. On Sunday, Gov. Jerry Brown signed AB 967, a controversial bill that's been making the rounds around the nation over the last several years. It makes it legal to dispose of human remains through a process commonly referred to as water cremation (or alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation or bio-cremation). Despite its name, water cremation does not involve flushing a dead body down the toilet or drowning it in hot water. In fact, it's more of a bath. The body is put in a steel, pod-like vat and bathed in alkaline solution for about four hours. All that's left afterward are the clean, natural bones, which are crushed into ashes and returned to the family. The alkaline solution simply accelerates the ecosystem's natural breakdown of a body. According to Matt Baskerville, a funeral director in Illinois who uses alkaline hydrolysis, the consistency of ashes is different, too. Unlike the coarse and dense texture of ashes post-flame cremation, flameless cremation gives the final production (of the human body) a consistency of ivory powdered sugar. It also doesn't require any implants that would normally explode in flame cremation, like pacemakers or other titanium, to be removed beforehand. Baskerville said that the process produces 20-30 percent more ashes than flame cremation. The process is on the front lines of a major movement to "green-ify" death. There is growing concern over the carbon footprint that both the burial and standard cremation processes leave in their wake. Cities are running out of burial space and many of the materials used in burials including the embalming liquids and caskets have toxic effects on the environment. According to a 2016 report from the National Funeral Directors Association, more people used cremation than burial in 2015, and that number has grown over time. But eco-advocates say regular flame cremation isn't the greatest when it comes to the environment either. Joe Wilson, the CEO of Bio-Response Solutions a company that specializes in liquid cremation told Seeker earlier this year that the energy used in just one flame cremation could heat a house in Minnesota for a whole week in the winter. An average of 300 gallons of water, depending on the manufacturer, is used per human body during water cremation. "Granted, you're using water, however, you're not using a fossil fuel and you're not putting a carbon emission into the sky," Baskerville said. It's definitely a cleaner and greener option than the traditional flame cremation." Baskerville says it's often alkaline hydrolysis's name, not the process, that scares some consumers off, but that the response across his four funeral homes has been overwhelmingly positive. Other organizations, like the Catholic Church and other religious groups, are still wary about whole-heartedly approving water cremation as an end-of-life method. Monica Williams, the director of cemeteries for the Archdiocese of San Francisco, said that the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has been following the issue for quite a while and is still in conversation about if the process aligns with their standards of dignity for the human body. However, Williams added, Catholic cemeteries of the Archdiocese of San Francisco will bury the remains of deceased Catholics, regardless of their choice. California will join the some 14 other states where liquid cremation is already legal, including Idaho, Colorado and Florida. Two-word statuses covered my Facebook newsfeed when I awoke Monday morning. "Me too," said my best friend. "Me too," said a cousin. "Me too," said a former colleague. A movement was unfurling before my eyes, and I hadn't even gotten out of bed yet. On Sunday afternoon, in response to recent revelations surrounding the alleged sexual abuses of Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein, actress Alyssa Milano tweeted, "If you've been sexually harassed or assaulted write 'me too' as a reply to this tweet." Twenty-four hours later the tweet had garnered more than 35,000 replies and spilled from Twitter onto Facebook and other social media platforms. Most participants simply wrote, "me too," but some shared detailed, devastating stories of their sexual harassment and assault, buoyed by the atmosphere of collective sharing and support. READ ALSO: Alyssa Milano Kicks Off #MeToo Crusade for Victims of Sexual Harassment Shame hangs like a cloud over many victims of sexual abuse, who are often implicated in the crimes inflicted upon them you shouldn't have drunk so much, worn that dress, gone home with him, etc. And secrecy, which many survivors deem necessary in a society that won't believe them anyway, serves to inflame this shame. Scrolling through my Facebook feed throughout the morning and afternoon, I saw "me too" statuses on hundreds of friends' pages. I commended their candor and bravery women coming together to lift the veil on sexual assault and harassment! but my fingers hesitated on the keyboard. The context was lost in the sheer volume of responses. There were so many #MeToos, I began to wonder if any woman I know could claim #NotMe. I don't think so. Part of the issue lies in the lack of definitions in Milano's call to action. Sexual harassment is a horrific and demeaning experience that should not be discounted, but it's not the same as sexual assault. Grouping a person who was catcalled on the street with someone who's survived gang rape dilutes the experience of the latter. This is not the first time a hashtag has spawned a social media movement and, consequently, criticism. Hashtag solidarity can be an effective mode of civic engagement because it takes minimum effort to organize and can reach wide audiences. It's emotional release, too. But the merits of "clicktivism" bely its downfalls. Requiring little to no organization, these hashtag movements often fail to account for diverse experiences and fail to garner lasting change. Perhaps the hashtag we need now is not #MeToo, but #WhatNext? I am nearly 500 words into this column and still have yet to reveal whether I, too, am a victim of sexual harassment or assault. Has a part of you wondered where I stand on the sexual abuse spectrum? Why? I won't reveal my status publicly because I don't believe the confirmation of my victimhood grants my argument greater validity. But namely, I keep the information private because those in my life who I want to know, already do. I've told them offline. But my situation is different than that of many: I'm a cisgendered white woman in a liberal city. If I were to reveal my history of sexual violence, I would likely be greeted with unconditional support from my parents, friends and colleagues. The same can't be said for many people from different racial, sexual, economic, cultural or religious backgrounds. For some, coming forward with a "me too" status endangers their physical and emotional well-being. The #MeToo movement can't be "intersectional" feminism inclusive of all women from a diversity of histories and experiences if it fails to consider its impacts on those who aren't like me and Alyssa Milano. People from all walks of life shouldn't have to open the door to a painful past in order to convince you that sexual violence exists in this world. That's a big burden for anyone to bear, and the weight of it certainly can't hold when draped upon a Facebook status. Revealing the sheer number of sexual harassment and assault victims is perhaps one facet in a much larger effort required to dismantle patriarchy and establish equality, but can the state of women in this country be summarized in two words? I'll give you a one-word answer: Nope. Read Michelle Robertsons latest stories and send her news tips at mrobertson@sfchronicle.com. AHMAD AL-RUBAYE/AFP/Getty Images KIRKUK, Iraq Kurdish forces pulled out of disputed areas across northern and eastern Iraq on Tuesday, a day after handing over the northern city of Kirkuk to federal forces amid a tense standoff following last months vote for independence. The Kurdish forces, known as peshmerga, withdrew from Sinjar as well as three towns on the border with Iran, allowing Iraqi government forces and state-sanctioned militias to assume control. 1 Philippines visit: President Trump will meet with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte during a trip to Asia next month, the White House announced Monday. The Presidents travel will underscore his commitment to long-standing United States alliances and partnerships, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said. Duterte is host to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations conference in Manila. The Philippine leader has come under international criticism for his administrations brutal crackdown on drug trafficking, which has resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings. 2 Severe storm: The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia battered Ireland on Monday, killing at least three people and causing widespread power outages as the storm headed for Britain. Gusts of up to 80 mph were reported 30 years to the day after a weather event dubbed the Great Storm of 1987 battered southern England and killed 18 people. Authorities in Ireland ordered schools, courts and government buildings to close before the storms arrival. Bridges were shut down as a precaution in both Ireland and Britain. The storms path is likely to bring it to Wales, northern England and Scotland on Tuesday. The New Zealand Superannuation Fund is one of the country's biggest taxpayers, representing nearly a tenth of the total corporate tax paid in the 2017 financial year. Set up in 2001 to help meet the country's future pension needs, "the fund has become a significant presence in the New Zealand capital markets and economy. In fact, the funds $1.2 billion tax bill for 2016/17 represented 9 percent of the total New Zealand corporate tax take," it said in its 2017 annual report. Pre-tax profit in the year was $6.2 billion, including a $5.57 billion gain on the value of its investment portfolio. By comparison, New Zealand's largest company Fonterra Cooperative Group recognised a tax expense of $20 million on a pre-tax profit of $765 million in the year to July 31. New Zealand's corporate tax take was $12.6 billion in the year to June 30 versus $11.05 billion in the prior year, according to the government's financial statements. The fund returned 20.7 percent after costs, before New Zealand tax in the year to June 30. It finished the year at $35.37 billion before New Zealand tax, an increase of $5.27 billion. In the 2016 financial year, the Super Fund's total tax expense was $538 million, when it reported a pre-tax profit of $559 million including a $50 million loss on the fair value of the portfolio. Since its inception, it has paid $5.56 billion in tax to the government. "In effect, 37 percent of what the government has contributed to the fund, it has now received back in tax payments alone, ignoring net investment returns," the annual report said. The government contributed $14.9 billion between 2003 and 2009, when contributions were suspended. The resumption of contributions is currently forecast for the 2021 financial year. However, it noted that its income tax expense can be "highly volatile." The main driver is how the fund's physical global equities are taxed under the "Fair Dividend Rate" or FDR regime, it said. The regime taxes the assets at 5 percent of market value, rather than actual market moments. In any given year, if the return on global equities exceeds 5 percent the tax rate will be lower than 28 percent. If the returns are less than 5 percent, the tax rate will be higher than 28 percent, it said. In the 2017 financial year, the fund had an effective tax rate of 21 percent compared to 96 percent in the year to June 2016. (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: ALF - Mark Franklin Geneva Appointments new Head of Sales and Lending A shiny new system or the Wazgij of planning systems? THL - Apollo shareholders approve merger TWL - TradeWindow and EMA partner-up to build export capability November 15th Morning Report 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 New Zealand exports of frozen beef to Japan have plummeted since the country lifted tariff rates, according to AgriHQ. From Aug. 1, Japan increased its tariff on frozen beef to 50 percent from 38.5 percent under a World Trade Organisation safeguard following high sales of imported beef. Following the tariff hike, just 729 tonne of frozen beef was exported from New Zealand to Japan in August and September, down from 1,709 tonne last year and the five-year average of 1,840 tonne, according to AgriHQ's monthly Sheep & Beef report for October. Japan is New Zealands fifth largest market for red meat and co-products, with exports worth more than $302 million in the 2016 calendar year, and it's also the market in which the country's sheep and beef sector faces its single highest tariff burden, with $73 million of tariff payments last year. "NZ frozen beef exports to Japan have fallen away as expected since the introduction of the temporary tariff," AgriHQ analyst Reece Brick said in his report. "Little frozen product will be traded into Japan from NZ until the temporary tariff is lifted in April next year." New Zealand chilled beef exports to Japan, which aren't currently subject to the increase, matched last year's volumes as well as the five-year average, AgriHQ said. Japan is New Zealands largest chilled beef market with exports worth $63 million last year. AgriHQ's Brick said that contrary to earlier beliefs, Australian beef exports to Japan hadn't jumped higher despite Australia holding a major tariff advantage for frozen beef. Australia, one of New Zealand's biggest rivals in the Japanese market, is exempted from the WTO safeguard under its bilateral trade agreement with Japan with its frozen beef tariff sitting at 27.2 percent. Only 23,572 tonne of beef was exported from Australia to Japan through September, smaller than August in both total volume exported and market share, and the same trend applied when broken down to just frozen beef exports, Brick said. US exporters appear not to have been deterred by the tariff hike, with data for August showing only a minor change in frozen beef exports to Japan, although the portion of chilled beef entering Japan did increase 62 percent, Brick noted. (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: ALF - Mark Franklin Geneva Appointments new Head of Sales and Lending A shiny new system or the Wazgij of planning systems? THL - Apollo shareholders approve merger TWL - TradeWindow and EMA partner-up to build export capability November 15th Morning Report 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 Kingfish, a listed investment fund that targets New Zealand shares, has taken an $8 million position in Xero shares after flagging its first bet on the unprofitable accounting software company. Its investment amounts to about 3 percent of the portfolio of NZX-listed Kingfish, which has about $270 million in assets under management, said Sam Dickie, senior portfolio manager at Fisher Funds, which manages Kingfish. In Kingfish's monthly update for October, released yesterday, the manager said it had been reluctant to own Xero historically but estimates the company's Australian and New Zealand businesses turned profitable in 2017 "and that Xero is on track to achieve higher group earnings this year and in the future." Analysts have predicted that Xero will post a maiden profit in 2019. Xero shares fell 4.3 percent to $33.92 today, having soared about 103 percent this year, making the company third-best performer on the S&P/NZX 50 Index behind a2 Milk and Synlait Milk. Kingfish shares fell 0.8 percent to $1.27 and have fallen 5.9 percent this year. Earlier this month, Xero said it added 41,000 customers in the UK in the first half of its 2018 year, lifting the total to 253,000 as at Sept. 30, meaning it is now about the same size as its New Zealand market. (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: ALF - Mark Franklin Geneva Appointments new Head of Sales and Lending A shiny new system or the Wazgij of planning systems? THL - Apollo shareholders approve merger TWL - TradeWindow and EMA partner-up to build export capability November 15th Morning Report 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 Ebos Group, which posted a record profit in 2017 driven by acquisitions and sales growth, says earnings will rise about 10 percent in the current year after a strong first quarter for its healthcare and animal products divisions. Chief executive Patrick Davies told shareholders at their annual meeting in Christchurch that the company "made a positive start to the first quarter of the 2018 financial year, with growth from both our healthcare and animal care segments." "On the basis of our current trading performance, we expect constant currency, underlying ebitda for the 2018 financial year to grow by approximately 10 percent on the prior year," he said. Underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation rose 9.6 percent to $241 million on a constant currency basis in 2017 and today's forecast suggests ebitda would rise to about $265 million this year. Underlying earnings excluded transaction costs from acquisitions last year. Ebitda has climbed 38 percent in the four years since Ebos acquired the Symbion pharmaceutical wholesaler and distributor in Australia in 2013 for $1.1 billion cash and scrip in a deal that gave Symbions owner Zuellig Group a cornerstone 40 percent stake and saw 2014 profit almost triple. Since then it has invested $470 million on acquisitions and capital expenditure. "Today we are uniquely positioned as the largest and most diversified Australasian marketer, wholesaler and distributor of healthcare, medical and pharmaceutical products," chair Mark Waller said. The company has many businesses that operate "in highly competitive and regulated markets in New Zealand and Australia," he told shareholders. "Government healthcare funding remains constrained and we expect this to continue." Ebos is currently awaiting the final report from the Australian governments independent review into pharmacy remuneration and regulation, which it hopes will be amended from its interim version. "We have expressed our disappointment that the interim report failed to recognise the wholesale industrys proposals to ensure the longer-term sustainability of the industry," he said. "Our view is that there are some relatively minor changes to the funding model which could be implemented to better reflect the importance of the role wholesalers play in the industry and achieve a more sustainable funding arrangement." In May, Ebos announced the acquisition of HPS, Australias largest provider of outsourced pharmacy services to hospitals, for A$154 million, adding to a healthcare division that stretches from pharmacies to consumer products, healthcare and contract logistics. It bought a majority stake in Terry White Group last October, merging that business with its Chemmart unit to create one of Australia's largest chains of pharmacies. "The acquisition of HPS has given us market leadership in the provision of outsourced pharmacy services to Australian hospitals and provides the platform for further revenue growth across HPS extensive network of clients," Davies said today. Ebos shares were unchnaged at $17.40 and have gained 4.2 percent this year. (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: ALF - Mark Franklin Geneva Appointments new Head of Sales and Lending A shiny new system or the Wazgij of planning systems? THL - Apollo shareholders approve merger TWL - TradeWindow and EMA partner-up to build export capability November 15th Morning Report 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 To activate the text-to-speech service, please first agree to the privacy policy below. Taipei, Oct. 17 (CNA) China has recently failed once again to force the name of the Taiwan Medical Association (TMA) under the World Medical Association (WMA) to be changed to "Chinese Medical Association Taipei," but the TMA is faced with the "daunting prospect" of keeping the name, a lawmaker said Tuesday. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. --Because Hollywood's love affair with Staten Island has never waned -- Tinseltown's big wigs continue to tap the once forsaken borough as the backdrop for film after film. The latest case in point is Martin Scorsese's star-studded Netflix film, "The Irishman," where scenes were shot just last week at Lee's Tavern in Dongan Hills. The flick that centers on hit man Frank Sheeran, who supposedly admitted to murdering Jimmy Hoffa, even saw a white, 1970s model Thunderbird go up in flames at the popular dining spot renowned for its mouth-watering pizza and crisp calamari. Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci, Harvey Keitel and Bobby Cannavale star in the movie based on Charles Brandt's "I Heard You Paint Houses." Also featured: Robert Funaro, the New Dorp resident known for his roles as Eugene Pontecorvo, a crime family soldier in "The Sopranos," and Tony Del Greco, a chief enforcer for a New York mob boss in Scorsese's HBO drama series, "Vinyl." The flick reunites Scorsese and De Niro for the first time since the 1995 film "Casino." And Pesci nabbed an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in Scorsese's 1990 "Goodfellas," which also starred DeNiro. Funaro began filming in Queens two weeks ago. "I play the role of Johnny, a trucker teamster friend of Frank Sheeran- who's played by Robert DeNiro. I kind of introduce him to the key players at the Friendly Lounge - a hangout in Philadelphia," says Funaro. In further conversing about the film and his role, Funaro explains he's happy to have landed the role and it's been kind of like a "Vinyl" reunion. "Ray Romano is playing the part of Bill Bufalino, and Bobby Carnavale is playing 'Skinny Razor,'" he says. "We are filming in Queens at a church during a Christening scene. We did a scene together and it was a great reunion for Ray, Bobby and me." Funaro points out it's a film that's going to be pretty powerful because it translates into the truth about how Jimmy Hoffa was really murdered. "It's being developed as it goes along because Marty Scorcese does that a lot. And the film is based on the book," Funaro adds. "There is a script, but it's being developed -- in some respects, as it goes along." Funaro says the way it's going "The Irishman" will film for another few months; probably until February. "The film 'The Sinner,' a TV crime thriller with Jesscia Biel," where I played the part of Ron Tanetti, was shot in part on Staten Island as well," Funaro continues. But back to his current project: "Martin Scorcese is the kind of director who likes to work with people that he knows and with family. And I'm proud that I'm on his list of actors. I would compare Martin to director/actor John Cassavetes -- directors who like to work with amateurs and professionals actors. He is such a great director that he puts you at ease and he gets great performances in return. This is my second Scorcese film." Funaro's name has been no stranger to this column. In December we boasted of his role of Sal Idello in the Vincent Amelio, Al Dente production of "How Alfo Learned to Love," a down-home fun "ethnic comedy" at Manhattan's 59th Street Theater. Funaro got his big break when working with the late James Gandolfini in a production of "A Streetcar Named Desire" that toured Scandinavia -- Funaro played Stanley Kowalski and Gandolfini played Mitch. Several years later when Funaro was working as a manager of Caroline's Comedy Club, Manhattan, Gandolfini suddenly walked in looking for him. "He said there was a role available and that he could get me in the door for the auditions -- the rest, he said, was up to me," said Funaro. "He's was a great guy -- a terrific man. For him to come back and look for me -- I'm really blessed by that." Funaro, who's been acting on and off for a number of years, also appeared in episodes of "Law and Order" and was featured in "Law & Order: Criminal Intent." He also appeared in the 2007 film"American Gangster" as Detective McCann and in 2012 in "Whistle Blower," in an episode in the second season of the CBS show "Blue Bloods" as NYPD Capt. Browne. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Two Staten Island doctors were sentenced Monday for taking bribes in a long and elaborate test-referral scheme that generated millions of dollars, authorities said. George Roussis, 45, and Nicholas Roussis, 49, were sentenced to 37 and 24 months in prison, respectively, in Newark federal court, according to the New Jersey U.S. Attorney's office. The brothers allegedly accepted cash payments totaling approximately $175,000 from Biodiagnostic Laboratory Services LLC (BLS) employees between October 2010 and April 2013, according to federal officials. The elder Roussis, an obstetrician-gynecologist, and the younger, a pediatrician, also asked the company to pay for strip club trips that included paying women to perform lap dances and engage in sex acts, officials said. In return, the two brothers referred their patients' blood specimens to BLS, generating more than $1,450,000 and $250,000 of lab business for the company from George and Nicholas, respectively, authorities allege. A third doctor, Ricky J. Sayegh, 45, of Scarsdale, N.Y., was sentenced to 30 months in prison. Sayegh, an internal medicine doctor practicing in Yonkers, accepted cash bribes in return for referring blood specimens to BLS, which generated more than $1.4 million in lab business for BLS, officials said. From February 2010 through April 2013, Sayegh received bribes totaling approximately $400,000 from BLS employees and associates, authorities said. The three doctors were also each sentenced to a year of supervised release. George Roussis, Nicholas Roussis, and Sayegh will each pay fines of $7,500, $5,000, and $10,000, respectively, officials said. The investigation has thus far resulted in 50 convictions - 36 of them doctors - in connection with the bribery scheme, which its organizers have admitted involved millions of dollars in bribes and resulted in more than $100 million in payments to BLS from Medicare and various private insurance companies, according to the authorities. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The New York City Department of Sanitation is hosting a S.A.F.E. disposal event on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The S.A.F.E. event -- an acronym for "Solvents, Automotive, Flammables and Electronics" -- will give Staten Island residents an opportunity to dispose of hazardous waste materials, such as automotive products, thermometers and electronics. The event will take place at the Midland Beach parking lot, located at Father Capodanno Boulevard and Hunter Avenue. Cars are encouraged to approach from Slater Avenue. DSNY warns residents that these events are quite popular and that they should expect to wait in line. Participants are asked to make sure all items are labeled clearly in tightly sealed containers. Only residential waste is accepted, and no commercial vehicles are allowed. Visitors must provide proof of New York City residency, such as a state driver's license or utility bill. Items such as pesticides, strong cleaners, mercury-containing devices, paints, automotive fluids and medications may be brought to the event for disposal. Electronics, which can no longer be discarded on the curb due to New York State law, can also be discarded at this event. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The whistleblower who secretly recorded his conversations with several Staten Island judges and court personnel has filed a bombshell $25-million slander lawsuit against the head of a court officers' union, further accusing Staten Island's former administrative judge of trying to influence the court in matters involving her husband, the district attorney. Michael Pulizotto's suit, filed Monday in Manhattan state Supreme Court, names only one defendant - Dennis Quirk, president of the New York State Court Officers Association. Yet, it also targets Justice Judith McMahon and her spouse, District Attorney Michael E. McMahon, alleging the judge overstepped her authority on multiple occasions to aid her spouse. Among other things, the civil complaint alleges Justice McMahon, the borough's former administrative judge for civil matters, wanted "complex" criminal cases diverted away from two judges whom prosecutors complained were too "defense-oriented." She also tried to influence one of the judges to declare a mistrial in a case in which a jury ultimately acquitted a defendant, contends the complaint. Pulizotto filed the suit in Manhattan, alleging he couldn't get a fair trial on Staten Island. Pulizotto's attorney is controversial lawyer Richard Luthmann, who is being investigated by a special prosecutor at District Attorney McMahon's request regarding allegations of criminal impersonation, forgery and falsifying business records in an unrelated matter. Pulizotto tape recorded and wrote notes of his conversations with Justice McMahon and other court personnel over a period of more than two years, beginning in July 2015, shortly after he was appointed chief court clerk on Staten Island. Pulizotto turned over the tapes and other documents to the state Office of Court Administration months ago. OCA's inspector general is still investigating the matter. ALLEGES VERBAL ABUSE Pulizotto, who is openly gay, alleges Justice McMahon was verbally and emotionally abusive, publically mocked him, threatened his job status and overstepped her bounds into the operation of the criminal term. "We will seek the full measure of redress that the law will allow for Mr. Pulizotto, who is the victim in this matter," said Luthmann. Justice McMahon's lawyer and the district attorney vehemently denied the allegations. "Justice McMahon is not a party to this suit, but the claims in it about her are obviously absurd," said John P. Connors Jr., her attorney. "The truth is clear: Justice McMahon has been a distinguished jurist for more than a decade and she continues to serve the people of New York with distinction." Said D.A. McMahon, "As I understand it, this is nothing more than a ridiculous claim by a self-serving, disgruntled employee and the grandstanding of his attorney. All allegations are false." Some critics have questioned whether the slander suit against Quirk was an end-run to try to get at the McMahons. Quirk, the suit alleges, "has a strong political connection with" the McMahons. Quirk made "false statements about ... Pulizotto recklessly and without regard to their consequences, and to advance ... Quirk's own personal and political interests," the complaint alleges. "This lawsuit is as bogus as it gets, and Dennis Quirk believes in the legal system and looks forward to his day in court," said Bruce Baron, Quirk's lawyer. Last month, Justice McMahon stepped down from her position as administrative judge for civil matters on Staten Island. She had previously been administrative judge for civil and criminal matters on Staten Island, but stopped overseeing criminal matters in May 2015 to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest while her husband successfully ran for district attorney. She remained administrative judge for civil matters. Justice McMahon was re-assigned in September to a jury-coordinating and mediation part in Manhattan state Supreme Court. Pulizotto was assigned then to the Manhattan Office of Professional and Court Services that includes oversight of the state's Alternative Dispute Resolution program. 'LOW-LIFE RAT' According to the lawsuit's civil complaint, Quirk, in the presence of several court officers, confronted Pulizotto outside the Staten Island Courthouse in St. George on Sept. 5. Quirk cursed Pulizotto and denounced him as a "low-life rat," alleges the complaint. Quirk told Pulizotto he knew he had tape recorded conversations with court personnel and given them to OCA's inspector general. Two days later, Quirk had a huge blow-up rat placed at the entrance to the driveway at the back of the courthouse. Pulizotto's name and the name of another court employee were written on it. The complaint brands Quirk a "bully" and seeks a court declaration to the effect. And while Pulizotto seeks $5 million each in compensatory and special damages, plus $15 million in punitive damages, against Quirk, the suit levels its sharpest allegations against the McMahons, who are not named defendants. Shortly after being named chief clerk, Pulizotto, whom Justice McMahon had admonished for seeking guidance from OCA on a personnel issue, again reached out to the agency, the complaint said. Pulizotto was concerned about her injecting herself into criminal matters, said the complaint. Based on the latter conversation with OCA, Pulizotto began documenting his interactions with the judge and others through contemporaneous written notes, his cell phone "and other specialized recording devices," the complaint said. In an e-mail, Lucian Chalfen, an OCA spokesman, said the agency "at no time" spoke with Pulizotto about audio taping conversations. "Any inference otherwise is patently false," said Chalfen. "We were not aware that Michael Pulizotto was taping conversations." Chalfen said Pulizotto spoke to OCA then about his new position as chief clerk, but "was not directed to do anything memorializing any interactions." LAWSUIT ALLEGATIONS According to the complaint, Justice McMahon in mid-April 2016, continued exerting her authority in criminal matters. At that time, she directed that no more "complex" criminal cases go to Justices Mario F. Mattei and Wayne Ozzi because the district attorney's office had griped that they were too "defense-oriented," alleges the complaint. Four months later, the judge, apparently while in her office, "shrieks" Mattei should be sent to "lower Criminal Court," because of complaints from the district attorney's office about his "anti-prosecutorial side," the suit alleges. Mattei is a former career prosecutor who served as chief of the Investigations Bureau for the late District Attorney William L. Murphy and former District Attorney Daniel Donovan. Both Mattei and Ozzi are considered fair and even-handed judges. "Judges Mattei and Ozzi are two of the finest jurists in the state," said Mark J. Fonte, a St. George-based criminal defense lawyer and former prosecutor. "They are respected and admired by both the prosecution and defense. Their reputation for fairness is unparalleled." In the past year, Mattei has presided over several major trials including former Linden, N.J. Police Officer Pedro Abad, arising from a fatal wrong-way crash on the West Shore Expressway in March 2015, and former NYPD Officer Joseph McClean, stemming from a deadly crash with a pedestrian in Mariners Harbor in 2013. Both trials resulted in convictions. Mattei is currently presiding over the murder trial of Michael Sykes, accused of fatally stabbing his girlfriend and two of her young children last year in the Ramada Inn in Willowbrook. Ozzi recently presided over the trial of Wayne Thomas, who was convicted of a double-homicide. JURY INFLUENCE, SUIT ALLEGES According to the complaint, Justice McMahon directed Pulizotto, in June 2016, to influence Mattei to declare a jury deadlock in a case that ultimately resulted in acquittal, the complaint alleges. And, in September 2016, she talked on speakerphone in her chambers with her husband about "grand jury matters," the complaint alleges. The complaint contains no specifics about the conversation. Pulizotto also alleges Justice McMahon told him to make it known she didn't want Ozzi to sit on the new Veterans Court bench. Justice Stephen J. Rooney, the borough's former administrative judge for criminal matters, presides over Veterans Court. Ozzi presides over Mental Health Court. "On numerous occasions, Judy McMahon violated the Administrative Order while her husband Mike McMahon was the district attorney, to the determinant of criminal defendants," alleges the lawsuit. The Administrative Order, in May 2015, bifurcated the administration of the Criminal and Civil terms on Staten Island, said the complaint. The complaint goes on to say Pulizotto wants to subpoena the McMahons' phone, e-mail and other communication records from July 31 through Sept. 15 of this year to determine if they leaked confidential information about the OCA inspector general's probe to Quirk. In fact, a subpoena is attached to the complaint calling upon the McMahons to personally appear at a deposition on Nov. 20 and bring such documentation with them. In an e-mail, Assemblyman Matthew Titone (D-North Shore), who is openly gay, called Justice McMahon "a great friend an ally" to the LGBT community. "Judge McMahon is without question truly supportive of LGBT people and our rights and has always treated those of us in the community with nothing but dignity and respect," he wrote. "Anyone who says or thinks otherwise is sadly and gravely mistaken." STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A 27-year-old man from Brooklyn with alleged gang ties is facing several drug charges after he was arrested in Port Richmond Friday. Jamel Murray, who police allege is a member of the Bloods, was the subject of an investigation that observed him sell drugs on two different occasions, according to a criminal complaint. Murray was allegedly observed on Oct. 5 at around 2:30 p.m. in front of a home on the 200 block of Charles Avenue, engaging in a hand-to-hand exchange with individuals. When police caught up with the people Murray made the exchange with, they found them to be in possession of crack cocaine, according to the criminal complaint. Then, on Oct. 13 at around 5:40 p.m. at the intersection of Heberton Avenue and Vreeland Street, an officer observed a metal clip on Murray's waistband, which was later found to be a gravity knife, according to the complaint. Upon searching the defendant, police found Murray to be in possession of two clear plastic bags tucked into his underwear. One of the bags contained several large chunks of crack, and the other contained a large quantity of cocaine that was separated and individually wrapped for sale, according to the complaint. He is charged with criminal sale of a controlled substance, four counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon. Murray was free on a conditional discharge after he pled guilty to marijuana possession on Sept. 15, according to court records. He is currently being held on $10,000 cash or bond, according to records. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Staten Islanders will have an opportunity to voice their opinions on the proposed borough-wide charter school for dyslexic students at a public hearing on Oct. 24. An overview, questions and comments will start at 7 p.m. at the Michael J. Petrides School in Sunnyside in Auditorium A, Building C. Speakers can start signing in at 6:30 p.m. The school is located at 715 Ocean Terrace. The Bridge Preparatory Charter School for Creative Thinkers cleared the first step in its application process in Albany in July. The State Education Department accepted Bridge Prep's "letter of intent" that cleared the school to proceed to the next round in the charter application process. If approved, Bridge Prep will be open for the 2018-2019 school year. The school proposes to serve approximately 36 students in Grade 2 and 36 students in Grade 3, adding a grade each year. Classes will serve no more than 12 students. It will be the first and only public charter school in the state and a one of a handful in the United States focused on specifically meeting the needs of students with dyslexia and language-based learning difficulties. Founder of the proposed school, Tim Castanza, reached out to Staten Islanders at local community board meetings to garner support for the cause. Borough President James Oddo assembled a team to craft the application for approval from the state education department. PROPOSED CURRICULUM, PROGRAMS Like other charter schools, Bridge Prep will be tuition-free and the application process will be open to all Staten Island students. Available seats will be filled by lottery. The charter school will use enhanced, individualized and remedial instruction through Orton-Gillingham, an instructional approach designed specifically to help students with dyslexia. Instructors will use sight, hearing, touch and movement to help students connect language with words and letters. Bridge Prep will have an extended school day focused on teaching technology-based skills, organizational sequencing and structure, study skills and additional academic support. The school plans to partner with community-based organizations to provide a variety of after-school programs. The Center for Teacher Development will provide staff with opportunities for professional development. Teacher will also use collaborative planning and hands-on practical experiences as part of the extended day structure and summer re-orientation program. BY MICHAEL HEITMANN AND DOUG GREENE As Governor Cuomo called a special session of the State Legislature in June, a bill that could help thousands of New Yorkers wasn't moving. In February, the Assembly passed A.2142, which would seal the criminal records of people who have been unjustly and unconstitutionally arrested for simple possession of marijuana in public view. Unfortunately, S. 3809, the Senate companion to this opportunity-expanding bill, remained bottled up in the Senate's Codes Committee, denying much-needed respite to hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers suffering from the collateral consequences of having a criminal record. In 2016, 366 people on Staten Island were arrested for simple criminal possession of marijuana. People who use marijuana responsibly are our family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers and members of our communities of faith. They're represented in all occupations, including health care professionals, home health aides and security guards. And they shouldn't be denied the right and dignity to care for and protect us because they've been convicted of possessing marijuana outside of the workplace. Fortunately, in 2011, then Mayor Bloomberg and Commissioner Kelly issued an order directing the NYPD to stop manufacturing marijuana arrests. But for those who were arrested and convicted for criminal possession of marijuana, the punishment lasts a lifetime in the form of a permanent criminal record and reduced opportunities for employment, education, housing and professional licensing, as well as the prospect of detention and deportation for immigrants. These negative consequences are for the possession of a plant that's much safer than the opioids that have caused over 65 overdose deaths this year on Staten Island. Unlike New Jersey, New York does not have a mechanism for sealing marijuana arrest records. Many of our neighbors in New Jersey who were charged and convicted of marijuana possession can expunge their records after a short period of time, assuming there are no subsequent convictions. This allows them to move forward with their lives and obtain jobs without the conviction showing up on background checks. The bill that the State Senate failed to act on would create a process so those convicted of marijuana possession in the past could have their records sealed, and those convicted in the future would automatically have their records sealed. It would also prohibit a waiver of sealing as part of a plea bargain, an important protection in light of the high number of misdemeanor cases that don't go to trial and are instead resolved through negotiating a plea. Staten Islanders can do the right thing for racial justice and opportunity by urging Senator Lanza to join Senator Savino in supporting sealing criminal records for low-level marijuana possession, and pushing Governor Cuomo to act to seal these records for arrests that he has acknowledged are stigmatizing and unjust. The State Senate and Governor Cuomo's failure to act this session guaranteed a cruel summer for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers unjustly convicted for possessing a plant. Michael Heitmann has been practicing law in New York City and New Jersey for over 15 years, his main office is located at 1946 Victory Boulevard, Staten Island, NY. He is a member of the legal committee of National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) and the Richmond County Bar Association. He handles civil litigation cases as well as criminal charges including marijuana possession. Mr. Heitmann also consults with entrepreneurs and investors in the medical marijuana industry. Doug Greene is the Legislative Director for Empire State NORML. Page Content Also Soft Launch of #SXMSTRONG Campaign Philipsburg, (October 13, 2017) Kids parading through the Philipsburg area in cultural wear will officially kick off the activities leading up to St. Martin Day 2017. The parade is a collaboration between the Cocaae Foundation and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport and is scheduled for Saturday October 14th 2017. The parade will start at 11 am at the Philipsburg Cultural and Community Center (back street) then on to Wilhelmina Street (Court House Alley), then turn onto Front Street and proceed up to Emma Plein where the parade will turn down the alley besides Diamond Casino, turn right onto the boardwalk until Walter Plantz square where the parade will then go back onto Front Street via Scheepbouw steeg, proceed back up to the Court House, turn onto Hendrikstraat and head back to the Philipsburg Cultural Center via Cannegieter Street. Once the parade is finished, kids can enjoy face painting and a bouncing castle for free from 1pm to 2pm at the Sister Borgia parking lot. Organizers are encouraging parents to bring their kids and have fun as children can also join the parade and interact with the stilt walkers. Music will be provided by the Generation New Status STM band. The parade forms part of the pre-St. Martin Day activities entitled For the Love of St. Martin, Road to St. Martin Day festivities. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport is organizing an array of events including cultural, youth oriented and sporting events leading up to St. Martin Day and wants to provide the people of St. Martin with opportunities to unify and celebrate life together. For this years festivities, the Ministry is collaborating with various stakeholders, including French counterparts, to ensure a unified program and approach to St. Martin Day. An official calendar of events will be unveiled very shortly. The parade also serves as the soft launch of the #SXMSTRONG campaign under the slogan Rebuilding our Nation. This campaign is a broad initiative organized by different community and social stakeholders and is powered by the government. The sentiment surrounding the powerful slogan is one of unity, resilience, empowerment and solidarity. The slogan and the underlying message reinforces the determination of the government of Sint Maarten to get the nation back on its feet and does justice to the rebuilding efforts that are underway. Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport is encouraging citizens to tune into the media and social media in the upcoming days to be updated of all the upcoming exciting events leading up to St. Martin Day with the grand finale on St. Martin Day 2017. 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 Hazelnut coffee, candies and creamers have lined grocery store and specialty shop shelves for many years and with research underway at Horning State Farm in Plattsmouth, local ag producers may someday be adding these delightful nuts to their traditional crops. Although hazelnut plants grow in Nebraska, their nut tends to be small and subject to Eastern Filbert Blight in early spring. Flowering occurs in late February and into the spring when buds are susceptible to pollination. They are also susceptible to Eastern Blight spores and develop cankers in the bark, which eventually girdle the plant and kill it, said Andrew Zahn, Nebraska Forestry Service hazelnut technician. NFS owns Horning State Farm and has 10 acres in it devoted to hazelnut cultivars in hopes of developing varieties that produce plants resistant to blight with large, tasty nuts similar to those grown in Oregon, New Jersey and throughout Europe. NFSs research began nearly 20 years ago. The forestry service started evaluating hazelnuts at University of Nebraska-Lincolns East Campus in 2000, Zahn explained. The first ones were planted at Horning State Farm around 2009. There is also a plot at UN-L. NFS is part of a consortium studying hazelnut production with Rutgers University in Brunswick, N.J.; Oregon State University in Corvallis, Ore.; and Arbor Day Foundation (ADF) in Nebraska City, Neb. ADF planted a hazelnut research plot behind Lied Conference Center in Nebraska City 24 years ago. Together, the four entities have been working to derive a hazelnut cultivar that withstands Nebraskas extreme winter and summer temperatures and is resistant to Eastern Filbert Blight. Were about a year from releasing two, possibly three cultivars that have resisted Eastern Filbert Blight, Zahn said. The two most likely to be released are Gran Traverse and The Beast. Gran Traverse has Turkish hazelnut tree genetics like European hazelnuts, Zahn explained. The Beast is 75 percent European hazelnut. These cultivars are hardy in the winter in terms of flowering and pollination. They are resistant to the Eastern Filbert Blight, which is one of the most important aspects of this research. The Beast produces large nuts within a shell thats easily cracked. They are nice plants and produce a medium-sized nut. We were in meetings at Rutgers this summer. The Beast is a very large plant and has been resistant to Eastern Filbert Blight for 12 years in New Jersey. The Gran Traverse isnt as high in production but you need another cultivar. The Gran Traverse is more of the pollenizer for The Beast. Pollenizers are the source of pollen. So far there hasnt been any commercial cultivation of hazelnuts east of Oregon. The oldest hazelnut tree in Oregon was planted in 1889, Zahn said. In Oregon, they only have had to deal with one strain of Eastern Filbert Blight and the nuts in Oregon are larger than the ones we grow here. Here, on the farm, we try to expose various cultivars to various blight pressures. Ones that dont end up getting it obviously have some quantitative resistance to it. In Oregon, producers apply fungicides to stop the blight. Its cost effective in Oregon but it would not be cost effective here. We have different strain of blight here. It is an ongoing process of evaluation, Zahn said. Hazelnut plants are perennials and fairly easy to maintain if resistant to blight. The first few years are really important in terms of irrigating them. They like deep soil with a medium texture. They dont like land high in clay content, because they dont like to sit in wet soil. Once established, they dont need much, Zahn said. Weed control is really important. It takes between six and eight years before they start producing nuts, but they remain productive for up to 50 years. They are also drought-tolerant once established, he said. Although deer dont chew on the hazelnut leaves, they do love the nuts. They are good for animal habitat. A farmer or rancher or even a homeowner could get hazelnuts from the Natural Resource District that would be good for a lower tier or shelter belt, he said. If the blight issues can be addressed, hazelnut bushes or trees could prove a valuable alternative crop in Nebraska. Hazelnuts are used in a variety of products. The demand for hazelnuts is bottomless at this point, Zahn said. They are highly nutritious and a rich source of protein, Vitamin E, foliates and B vitamins. They have a high oil content, between 50-70 percent, in the kernels. Their profile is nearly identical to olive oil. Zahn said the nuts can be pressed to produce hazelnut oil. You can use it as cooking oil, but its an expensive oil. It could prove to be a value-added product for producers. As for human consumption, Zahn said these filberts taste better if roasted or boiled. Some people say that filbert used to mean full beard. They were named after St. Filberts Day. During harvest time in August and September, the hazelnut in its husk sort of looks like a beard. NFS is hopeful that its research will eventually produce a hazelnut bush or tree that will grow well in Nebraska. Breeders in New jersey and Oregon found a good tree. We start with those as seedlings. We grow a lot of seeds. As the years go by, were looking to see if those resulting plants develop symptoms of the blight, Zahn said. Research still needs to be conducted before they can be grown commercially on large scale in Nebraska. In Nebraska, to begin with, it will be more of a farmers market item. Once weve improved and demonstrated that farmers can grow them successfully in Nebraska, then we can look at bigger commercial markets. A Scribner man was sentenced to spend time in prison Monday morning in Dodge County District Court on a felony drug offense. Brant J. Hudson, 25, was sentenced by Judge John Samson to spend the next two to five years in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services for being in possession of marijuana with intent to deliver or manufacture, a Class IIA felony. Through an August plea agreement, additional charges were dropped, including: being in possession of marijuana more than an ounce, being in possession of concentrated cannabis, three felony counts of child abuse/neglect, being in possession of a deadly weapon in commission of a felony and being in possession of drug paraphernalia. Marti Sleister, Dodge County deputy attorney, said following sentencing that she believed the judges ruling was stiff because the defendant didnt take responsibility for his actions during an interview used to formulate a Pre-Sentence Investigation report. After the deal was made he essentially told probation that everything he had was for personal use, and that didnt make the judge too happy, Sleister said. On May 4, the III CORPS Drug Task Force, the Scribner Police Department and the Dodge County Sheriffs Office conducted a search warrant at 401 E. Ninth Street in Scribner. Upon entering the residence, a search yielded the discovery of 13 clear plastic baggies containing a total of 1.294 ounces of marijuana and a small round container containing cannabis wax residue. In addition, law enforcement located a scale, a potted marijuana plant and evidence of a marijuana grow operation, several glass smoking pipes, cannabis concentrate, grow seed packages, more than one bong and in Hudsons bedroom closet; a black Hi Point 9mm handgun fully loaded and chambered, information contained in an arrest affidavit shows. At the time of his arrest, Hudsons girlfriends minor children were living in the home, court records show. Following his arrest, Hudson was transported to the 24-hour Dodge County Holding Facility. Hudson spent approximately six months in Saunders County Jail prior to sentencing after not posting bond. 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! Conservationist Rod Griffiths is heading into the wild to make sure Canberra remains the Bush Capital years into the future. Mr Griffiths, Conservation Council president, set out on the expedition last week that will see him walk the 306km ACT border over 21 days. Rod Griffith with his dog Tilly walking the 306km ACT border over 21 days has been joined on various legs of the walk by friends and interested people. Credit:Karleen Minney He has been joined by friends and fellow conservationists, as well as his dog Tilley, for parts of the hike, which is raising money for the ACT Conservation Council. The trek, which started at Hall, has so far taken him along the old railway tracks behind Hume, heading south towards Tuggeranong, and he is now into the territory's more remote wilderness. Age discrimination in the workforce needs to end to combat a growing aged pension crisis in the country's oldest regions, according to the Regional Australia Institute. The Regional Australia Institute report found there is lower growth, lower incomes and a higher welfare services bill in ageing regions which are increasingly reliant in the pension. The naitonal pension crisis is accelerating in the regions, according to a Regional Australia Report. Credit:Jessica Shapiro The report said some regions, including Victor Harbor, Port-Macquarie-Hastings and East Gippsland, already had more than 20 per cent of their populations reliant on the age pension. The 2016 census showed while aging was stable in metropolitan cities, it is accelerating in many regions, particularly rural areas and coastal communities. The ACT's prison watchdogs say access to drug programs and waiting times for medical treatment are some of the major issues plaguing inmates at the Alexander Maconochie Centre. Official visitors Tracey Whetnall and Judy Putt outlined prisoners' concerns in the justice directorate's recently-released annual report. The government's prison watchdogs have revealed the common complaints made by Canberra inmates. Credit:Rohan Thomson Ms Whetnall, who is responsible for investigating complaints from Indigenous inmates, said there had been a "significant rise" in the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders detained at the Alexander Maconochie Centre. Some of the issues affecting these inmates related to accessing rehabilitation programs and finding accommodation when they were released, Ms Whetnall said. Clive Palmer is asking a Supreme Court judge sitting in his high-profile legal battle with taxpayer-funded liquidators to recuse himself because of "apprehended bias" and possible pre-judgement. Mr Palmer's application centres around a September 14 hearing, where he says Justice John Bond raised matters while he was absent from court in his capacity as a self-represented litigant. Businessman Clive Palmer outside court. "I was not afforded procedural fairness," Mr Palmer told the court in Brisbane as he made submissions on his recusal application on Tuesday. It marks the latest manoeuvre in Mr Palmer's long-running stoush with liquidators, who are seeking court orders to freeze more than $200 million worth of the former politician's personal assets. Marie Kruss has a bone to pick with Telstra. The great-grandmother and long-term shareholder was at the telco giant's annual general meeting on Tuesday to make plain her displeasure at the performance of the company. "This is just terrible. I am not happy at all," Ms Kruss told Fairfax Media ahead of the meeting in Melbourne. Ms Kruss was far from alone. Shareholders lined up to blast the company's performance with many picking out the move in August to slice Telstra's cherished dividend by one-third as a particular grievance. A roundtable event about solar energy will take place from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at Keene Memorial Library in Fremont. Brian Newton, general manager of the Fremont Department of Utilities and city administrator, and Michael Shonka, president of Solar Heat & Electric in Omaha, will discuss Fremonts solar plan and take questions from attendees. The event is free and open to the public. It will be hosted by the Nebraska Conservation Education Fund as part of the Common Ground AmeriCorps program. Newton and Shonka will provide specific information about how solar energy works, the benefits of this resource and the current status and future plans for the Fremont Community Solar Farm. British billionaire Sanjeev Gupta is believed to be eyeing Rio Tinto's Australian and New Zealand aluminium assets to add to his local portfolio. Mr Gupta, who leads the GFG Alliance which recently bought the Australian steelmaker and mining group Arrium, is understood to be checking out Rio's PacAl assets at Gladstone in Queensland this week. Sanjeev Gupta talks to workers at OneSteel in Laverton in July, 2017. Credit:Julian Smith Rio's PacAl assets are the Boyne Smelter and nearby Gladstone Power Station, Bell Bay Smelter (Tasmania), Tomago Smelter (New South Wales) and NZAS smelter in New Zealand. Their value has been speculated at $US1 billion or greater. Other companies have expressed some interest in Rio's PacAl business in recent years, but have walked away. Elsternwick Another shop at 476 Glen Huntly Road showed the hefty appetite of buyers, selling for $1.5 million on a sharp 3.7 per cent yield. The two-storey venue, leased to popular Russian restaurant Nevsky, went for $200,000 above reserve at auction after competition between five bidders, Fitzroys Mark Talbot and Chris Kombi said. Richmond A Melbourne based investor has paid $1.15 million on a 3.48 per cent yield for a two-level, 146-square-metre, Victorian terrace building in a deal brokered by Teska Carson's Fergus Evans and Tom Maule. The property at 410 Church Street is leased to a skin and laser clinic on a two-year term with a two-year option for net annual rental of $44,995 plus GST. East Melbourne Health professionals are pushing up the values of consulting suites. Suite 515 at 100 Victoria Parade sold for $595,000 to an owner-occupier, demonstrating a 30 per cent increase in prices in the building over the past two years, Morley Commercial's Jonathan Lu said. Mr Lu has sold eight suites in the building in the past 12 months. Nunawading A highly exposed single-level office at 183-185 Springvale Road has sold at auction for $1.67 million on a yield of 3.77 per cent. The deal for the 402 sq m office, on 555 sq m of land, was negotiated by JLL's Tom Ryan and Peter Sprekos. Airport West Five bidders competing at the auction of an old brick warehouse at 18 Earl Street pushed the price to $960,500, CVA's Tom Gleeson and Anthony Carbone said. The 545 sq m building is leased to Superstone Premium Automotive Parts for $41,643 a year on a two-year lease. Bayswater A vacant showroom in the Bayswater Activity Centre has sold for $1.6 million. The investor was attracted to the 340 sq m former bank building at 743 Mountain Highway due to potential growth in the area and significant government investment in the precinct, JLL's Tom Ryan and Marcus Quinn said. Sunshine West A new free-standing office warehouse at Unit 4, 61- 69 North View Road sold to an owner-occupier for $1.19 million, Leo Mancino of CVA said. LEASES Bentleigh Sportsgirl will open a store in Centre Road. Fitzroys' Mark Talbot said Sussan Retail Group will set up Sportsgirl at 440 Centre Road on a five-year lease at $80,000 per annum. SRG has other franchises, Sussan and Suzanne Grae, on the strip. Other recent Centre Road tenants include food truck operator Mr Burger opening a concept store at 416 Centre Road and estate agents Hocking Stuart taking 379 Centre Road, both at rents of $80,000 per annum. Melbourne Skincare clinic Scolicare has leased a ground-floor property at 492 St Kilda Road for $290 per sq m on a 2+3 year lease. The deal was struck with a 7.5 per cent incentive. Monash University has taken level two of the same building on a one-year lease at $260 per sq m and Kosch Fertilizer signed up for the same rate on a five-year lease on level four. "Vacancy in this building has lowered from 16 to 6 per cent within months," Lemon Baxter's Jay Pavey said. Kew East Refurbished suites at 1401 Burke Road's Kew Corporate Centre have resulted in the building being fully occupied by smaller tenants. JLL's Tim Sugar said landlord Devitt Nominees refitted commercial offices as well as open-plan suites with kitchenettes and toilets. New tenants include Thomas More Centre (Christian publications), Best Practice Program and TNT Property Group. JLL also secured The Lab Gaming Mechanics in Suite 3 at 830 High Street on a three-year term. Dandenong South Complete Truck Bodies has leased a 1135 sq m office warehouse with 934 sq m of hardstand area at Pellicano's M2 Estate. Complete Trucks signed a five-year lease at net annual rental of $120,000 for 110-112 National Drive. "There was high demand for leasing in the estate," Knight Frank's George Linn said. Thornbury Gray Johnson's Matt Hoath and Scott Ashby negotiated a quick changeover of tenants at an industrial building at 329 Darebin Road, minimising lost income for the building's owner. Building finishes specialist Alternative Surfaces took a four-year lease with a further four-year option at starting rent of $90,000 net. Collingwood Denmark-based tapware manufacturer Vola will set up its wholesale showroom at 94 Wellington Street. Vola leased a 110 sq m showroom for $38,000 a year plus GST and outgoings on a five-year lease, Gorman Commercial's Dean Alexander said. MOVERS Charter Keck Cramer has appointed Glenn Lampard in the newly created role of strategic research principal commercial. Mr Lampard will focus on enhancing the group's research and supporting the valuations team. Mr Lampard was previously at Urbis, Savills, Knight Frank and CBRE. Submissions to sjohanson@fairfaxmedia.com.au Diversified property giant Lendlease has sold a quarter of its retirement living business to Dutch pension fund investment manager APG Asset Management for an estimated $470 million. The transaction covers all components of the retirement business, including ownership of the established retirement village portfolio, the operating platform and the business's development capabilities and pipeline, Lendlease said. Lendlease's retirement village at Greenwich, Sydney. Lendlease first mooted that it was "exploring the introduction of capital partners to help fund the growth of the business" in September. The group has $1.738 billion invested in retirement ownership. With the forward pipeline of assets in development, the end value of the deal is around $470 million. Each year the taxman delivers a revealing appraisal of Australia's generosity. Deep within a report titled Taxation Statistics are details of the deductions individual taxpayers claim for charitable donations. It doesn't cover every contribution made to good causes, of course. But its a rigorous insight into the nation's altruism. Here are five trends in Australia's giving to charity revealed by the ATO's latest assessment. 1) Individuals don't give away a very big share of income Analysis of the latest tax data by Queensland University of Technology's Centre for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies shows tax-deductible donations made by individuals climbed to a record high of $3.1 billion in 2014-15. But the share of income being donated is less impressive. On average, individual taxpayers who made tax-deductible donations gave just 0.4 per cent of their taxable income. That share was up a little on the previous year but still lower than before the 2008-09 global financial crisis. It is too early to determine if the federal government's long-awaited energy policy will be a success or not. Conservatives say it offers a pragmatic solution to contemporary challenges which will guarantee electricity supply by mandating the ongoing use of fossil fuels while not acting as a brake on the take-up of renewables despite the axing of existing subsidies. Labor and the Greens, not surprisingly, argue it is potentially disastrous and will put Australia on the wrong track at a crucial turning point in world history by locking the nation into outdated and inappropriate technologies that will accelerate climate change. If there is an absolute truth it probably falls somewhere between the two. The research can help politicians and their advisers assess and adjust policies to better target social security and to avoid unintended consequences including intergenerational welfare dependency, poverty traps (where the system creates a disincentive to seek employment, for example) and long-term unemployment. The researchers from the Universities of Melbourne and Sydney found the effect was most pronounced for the children of parents on single-parent benefits and disability and carer payments. A study of 18 years of Centrelink data reveals that children of parents on social security payments are almost twice as likely to be on benefits themselves by their early 20s as children whose parents are not on benefits. Unprecedented research shows an alarming correlation between the likelihood of a young person being on welfare and whether their parents receive social security benefits. This suggests it is harder to escape economic disadvantage in Australia than many might suppose. The report suggests that although Australia's welfare system is widely considered well targeted, there is clear need for improvement. One of the researchers, allowed access to the lifetime payment records of 124,285 young Australians born between October 1987 and March 1988, described the findings as "staggering". If parents did not receive benefits, fewer than a third of their children were on welfare between the ages of 18 and 26. But if parents were receiving benefits of one kind or another, then more than two-thirds of their children were also on welfare. This is an opportunity for politicians and their advisers to provide the right resources to the cohort the research suggests is most in need. Most parents do try to protect and nurture their children. Many are struggling, as this research underscores. Key policy implications of the research include making sure the National Disability Insurance Scheme, still in its infancy, is truly effective and efficient and that education and training, the long-term key to opportunity in a fast-moving economy and society, are given top priority. The findings should provide parents with a strong motive to do all they can to get off benefits, for their children's sake, and for services to redouble efforts to find employment and income opportunities for our poorest families. But a civilised society has a safety net. Many are in need, sometimes as a result of poor decisions and sometimes because of misfortune. A just society strives for evidence-based policies to minimise the number of people in that net. In Senator Penny Wong's much celebrated speech in the Senate opposing the Coalition's postal plebiscite, she responded with contempt to Liberal senator Mathias Cormann's comment that the plebiscite on marriage equality could be a "unifying moment". "But I tell you," she said in a steely voice, "have a read of some of the things which are said about us and our families and then come back here and tell us this is a unifying moment." She recalled the Australian Christian Lobby's description of children brought up in same-sex family units as "the stolen generation". "We love our children," Wong said passionately. Wong was right. This debate was never going to be respectful. After all, its very roots were sown in the ugliness of a Coalition backbench trying to remain relevant. But the reality is, the debate could be far more ugly and perhaps it ought to be. Last Sunday at St Mary's Cathedral in Sydney, Catholic Archbishop Anthony Fisher told his congregation the government should "keep out of the friendship business and out of the bedroom". Preaching a "no" vote, Fisher opined: "The state has no business telling us who we should love and how, sexually or otherwise. The only kind of friendship the state has a proper interest in recognising and regulating is heterosexual marriage, because that's what leads to children new citizens and gives them the best start in life." This week Australia was elected to a seat on the UN Human Rights Council. Relatively speaking, Australia is likely to be a positive force on the council, but in order to prove its mettle as a global human rights leader, it should focus its work on three key areas. First, Australia needs to step up as a strong, principled and consistent advocate for addressing global human rights abuses. A Rohingya Muslim man from Myanmar at a refugee camp in Bangladesh. Credit:AP Too often Australia is all over the place on grave abuses in other countries, particularly in our region. Take the Philippines, where thousands of people are dead as a result of extrajudicial killings done as part of President Rodrigo Duterte's "war on drugs". On this issue, Australia has flip-flopped, at times expressing its concern, at other times remaining conspicuously silent. Australia also turns a blind eye to serious human rights abuses in our region where the Australian government relies on support to prop up its punitive refugee policies. Of recent note is Australia's craven failure to condemn the horrific ethnic cleansing unfolding in Myanmar. One of Australia's most senior public servants, who will head Peter Dutton's new security super-ministry, says the mammoth consolidation of power is necessary to protect Australia from the "dark universe" of globalisation. Laying out what he called the "philosophical context" for the forthcoming Department of Home Affairs, Michael Pezzullo sounded a dire warning about the "evil" forces at play in an increasingly connected and mobile world. Mr Pezzullo, who currently runs the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, referenced hard rockers AC/DC, media star Bec Judd and J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings trilogy in an expansive speech to business leaders on Friday. He warned the "emotional view" of home as a safe place was obsolete, and that households as well as governments and businesses needed to think about - and act on - the dangerous downsides of ongoing globalisation. The Turnbull government faces an uphill battle getting states to sign up to its new energy plan, as Labor premiers savage it as a capitulation to Tony Abbott and victory for the coal industry. The government will need all the national electricity market states NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the ACT to agree to its national energy guarantee to implement it. The plan to force energy companies to meet mandated standards of reliability and emissions reduction will require changes to national electricity law, which is state-based legislation that sets the rules for the market. Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg briefed his state counterparts on the policy over the phone on Tuesday ahead of a face-to-face COAG meeting planned for late November. But initial reactions were not positive. Quite a transformation. From leather jacket Malcolm warning voters against being conned by fig leaf Coalition policies that do little in the way of carbon reduction, to what ... Old King Coal, Captain Reliable, Chief Power Ranger? Malcolm Turnbull hopes the take out will be more nuanced than that. That said, he is now banking his entire political account on selling this shift to energy security which simultaneously, if we take the government at its word, offers an end to summer blackouts, cuts household and business power bills, provides new investment certainty, and yet still drives down overall emissions to meet the Paris Agreement. Details of this blueprint remain to be explained, including most critically, the modelling that (presumably) supports these worthy, if heroic assertions. Too much great art can damage your health. In the 19th century, French writer Stendhal staggered out of the Santa Croce in Florence (architecture by Brunelleschi; art by Giotto, Donatello and Vasari; burial tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli) in a state of nervous collapse. "I was seized with a fierce palpitation of the heart," he wrote. "The wellspring of life was dried up within me, and I walked in constant fear of falling to the ground." This reaction emotional exhaustion engendered by artistic genius is known as Stendhal syndrome, and though not officially recognised, many doctors (especially in Florence) diagnose it. Heaven knows what Stendhal would make of Amsterdam. This tiny city probably holds more artistic masterpieces per square metre than anywhere else on the planet. If you have a few hours to kill (and buy your tickets in advance), you can see masterworks by everyone from Rembrandt to Picasso, Vermeer to Van Gogh, Matisse to Mondrian, all housed within three beautiful museums, five minutes' walk apart. The Rijksmuseum, the 19th-century jewel in the crown, houses the greatest collection of art from the Dutch Golden Age on the planet; the historic-grandeur-meets-modernist-bathtub Stedelijk is a modern-art mecca; and the Van Gogh Museum is an establishment tribute to this ultimate outsider. Together with the Concertgebouw (home of world renowned Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, which holds free lunchtime concerts every Wednesday), these buildings form the compass points of the Museumplein a kind of artistic meadow in central Amsterdam. The Rijksmuseum holds 1 million objects. Credit:Alamy If, like me, the thought of great art fills you simultaneously with enormous excitement and a strong desire to run screaming from the room, the very idea of the Museumplein is a mixed blessing. On one sunny morning, I walk through the Jordaan district (low-key historic cool amid the canals), eat a delicious and disconcertingly healthy breakfast at a cafe called Hummus Bistro and buy a large cheese at the Noordermarkt (a historic square lined with cafes, with a great fruit, veg and food market every Saturday). Thus fortified, I meet with Tim Zeedijk, head of exhibitions at the Rijksmuseum, to grapple with my issues. "This exhaustion with great art is very common," he says reassuringly. "Especially somewhere like the Rijksmuseum, where the sheer volume of work can be overwhelming." The Rijksmuseum holds more than a million objects, with 8000 on display at any one time. The Rijksmuseum tried to address exactly this problem during its $560-million, 10-year renovation, which was completed in 2013. In the revamped Gallery of Honour, for example, you can see all the museum's most famous works (by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Franz Hals et alia) in a single cavernous space. With a castle, ferris wheel and petting zoo, Conor McGregor has held a christening party for his young son which would rival most weddings. The UFC fighter, who welcomed son Conor Jr. with partner Dee Devlin in May, appeared to spare no expense when celebrating the baby's christening, posting pictures from the weekend's event. Dubbing the celebrations "Mac land", the Irishman shared a series of pictures of the party, held at the 560-acre Luttrellstown Castle estate, near Dublin. The venue is no stranger to a celebrity event: Victoria and David Beckham were wed at the castle in 1999. For Channel Nine chief executive officer Hugh Marks, it was an obvious choice: meet one of his biggest paid star's demands and cut 10 jobs or risk losing the star to another network. "If she got what she wanted we would have had to cut 10 producers' jobs ... that is the reality," a senior network insider told Fairfax Media on Tuesday morning as reverberations continued about the sudden departure of Lisa Wilkinson from the co-host's chair on Today. An official statement said Wilkinson, 57, and Nine, had been unable to come to an agreement on the terms of her contract. Soon after Wilkinson took to social media to announce she was joining Channel Ten's youth-focussed news show The Project in the new year, an odd move according to some industry observers given the show's demographics. I want to be happy for Lisa Wilkinson. Really I do. It's not every day that a woman on television and Australian commercial television no less switches networks and lands a contract that could make her close to, if not the, highest earner in the business. So why am I not cheering? The reality is, Wilkinson's case is not too different from thousands of situations that play out in workplaces every year. It goes something like this: Woman discovers she earns less than male colleague doing exactly the same job. Woman asks for pay rise. Employer says no. Woman leaves organisation. (Or wishes she could. Most women do not have the luxury of walking away from their underpaid jobs and have no other option but to accept whatever scraps they are offered.) I want you to imagine, just for a second, the worst "service" business you could think of. You're likely imagining one with a high level of distrust among consumers. One that charges you every single time you use it. One whose peers have been hit by scandal after scandal. And one whose motives seem conflicted between helping you and making as much money out of you as it can. If you're imagining a company in the Australian banking sector, you'd be right. As the property market slows down, banks need to rediscover the value of customer loyalty. Credit:Louie Douvis We trust our banks with a lot. Our savings. Our mortgages. Our credit. And often our share portfolio. Not to mention the broader financial stability of the Australian economy. Yet while we "trust" them to keep those things safe, we don't really trust them to be looking after our best interests. The bank chief executives themselves effectively acknowledge the trust gap. And it's no wonder. Fees to withdraw our own money at an ATM. Fees for "account keeping", which, in the age of electronic banking, seem extraordinarily high, with respect to the actual cost of having us as customers. Fees for being overdrawn. For using a teller. For converting our money into a foreign currency. And a whole lot more. When Trooper Jason Brown was mortally wounded in a hail of bullets in Afghanistan seven years ago, the soldier who dragged him to safety was not named. Known only as "Sergeant D", he took fire himself as he went back for Brown, and was shot at least six times before he rose to his feet and killed the machine gunner. Dr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial, at the launch of the new Australian Special Forces exhibition. Credit:Karleen Minney His story was kept secret, even to his own family. But now, for the first time, Sergeant D's actions, along with those of hundreds of his fellow Special Forces soldiers, are being brought out of the shadows in a "groundbreaking" new exhibition at the Australian War Memorial. It is a feat more than a year in the making, director of the memorial Dr Brendan Nelson said, and the first time a collection has been gathered among the "Five Eyes" special forces communities of Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada and Britain. An anxious and upset Trent Errington tapped at his friend's window in the early hours of the morning to say he had messed up and killed his half-brother, a Sydney court has heard. "He said, 'Go have a look yourself if you don't believe me'," Christopher Barbara told the NSW Supreme Court on Tuesday where Errington, 31, and his then-girlfriend, Rhiannon Lisa Bloodsworth, 24, are on trial for murdering Jay Cerin while staying at his Sydney home in August 2015. Jay Cerin, pictured here with partner Ruth Robinson. "Basically he goes 'I f---ed up, I killed Jay'," Mr Barbara said. The Crown alleges Errington was using ice and the brothers' relationship was volatile in the lead-up to the killing. The NSW government has committed to building the first stage of the F6 motorway extension from Arncliffe in Sydney's south to Kogarah but shelved the most controversial section that would have required 60 hectares of the Royal National Park or bulldozing 460 homes. The first section of the toll road will comprise a four-kilometre tunnel of two lanes in each direction from the WestConnex motorway at Arncliffe to President Avenue at Kogarah. It will result in the acquisition of five homes in and around President Avenue, and the demolition of five others owned by the state which are tenanted. The government was short on specifics about the design, cost and tolling for the first stage, which it said would be released in the middle of next year. However, much of the detail about the likely shape of the toll road has been released over the past six months in scores of government documents leaked to Fairfax Media. In committing to the project on Tuesday, Roads Minister Melinda Pavey said the government wanted tunnel excavation and other construction work for the first stage to begin in early 2019. Students have been told to apologise to an award-winning Indigenous writer by the head of the government agency that administers the HSC. David de Carvalho, the chief executive of the NSW Education Standards Authority, condemned the treatment of Ellen van Neerven who was subjected to abusive comments and messages from students who had sat the English exam. HSC students sitting the English exam were asked to analyse the poem Mango by Ellen van Neerven. "I am appalled by the abuse of the author," Mr de Carvalho told Fairfax Media. "This is a completely inappropriate response and I hope those involved see fit to apologise to Ms van Neerven." The controversy was sparked after students sitting the HSC English exam on Monday were asked to analyse Ms van Neerven's poem Mango - one of three unseen texts included in section 1 of English Paper 1. A NSW minister has launched an extraordinary attack on a key national retailers' association, accusing it of secrecy and demanding it "come clean" about which companies it is being paid by to lobby the government. The attack by better regulation minister Matt Kean coincides with legislation due to pass NSW parliament on Wednesday forcing retailers to set the expiry of gift cards to at least three years, up from the present one year for most. Better regulation minister Matt Kean accuses the Australian Retailers Association of secrecy. Credit:James Alcock NSW Fair Trading estimates consumers are losing about $60 million a year due to expired gift cards. The move has been condemned by the Australian Retailers Association, whose executive director Russell Zimmerman warned it "places an unnecessary regulatory burden and significant additional administrative costs" on businesses. A teenage boy has died and an investigation is under way after an incident at Lambton Swimming Pool on Tuesday afternoon. The boy, 17, died in John Hunter Hospital after he was apparently restrained by bystanders following an alleged assault on an employee of the swimming centre. A parent told the Newcastle Herald the pool was in lockdown for several hours. Police were called to the Lane 4 Aquatics centre on Durham Road swim centre shortly after 5pm, responding to reports an employee of the pool had been assaulted. Colourful former Auburn deputy mayor Salim Mehajer will avoid standing trial this year for allegedly assaulting a taxi driver and a journalist, after his lawyers successfully applied to have the hearings delayed following his car accident on Monday. Mr Mehajer, 31, was to face a two-day trial starting on Monday for allegedly assaulting a taxi driver outside The Star casino in the early hours of April 2 by throwing an eftpos machine in the driver's face. He was also charged with stealing and "intentionally destroying" a $1500 iPhone. It was meant to be a big week in court for the property developer and former councillor. The body of a toddler killed by her mother who was obsessed with a motorcycle- riding "wolfman" and aliens could be buried in bushland on the NSW Central Coast. NSW Police considered searching the area after the woman's notebooks were seized by detectives and an entry dated 2001 was found which read "Killed Snapper Point". Snapper Point is part of the Lake Munmorah State Conservation Area south of Newcastle. Supreme Court Justice Robert Allan Hulme in Newcastle on Tuesday formally ordered the woman, 45, be released because she was not a danger to the community. He accepted psychiatric evidence that the mother of six had been in a stable condition for many years being treated with a potent, but low, dose of antipsychotic medication. A four-month-old baby is fighting for life after he was slashed in the face with a knife at a Brisbane home and a family member has been taken into police custody. Police said the infants mother woke to the sound of his cries just after 6.30am on Tuesday and found the baby in his cot, with a second family member in the room "in possession" of a large knife. Police collect evidence at a home in The Gap, where a baby was assaulted on Tuesday morning. Credit:Jorge Branco Regional Duty Officer Inspector Daniel Bragg said paramedics and officers were visibly distressed by the scene at the home, in The Gap, in Brisbanes west. He said the baby suffered "several slash marks" to the face and the family member had been "in possession" of the knife. A man has died after his car was swept away while his wife looked on and a jogger is fighting for life after a car skidded on wet roads and knocked him into a creek. Emergency services have been called out to a string of wet-weather incidents as the state's south-east continues to be drenched. The body of a man was found in his car after it had been swept off a flooded causeway near Gympie. Rescue workers found a 67-year-old man dead inside his car on Tuesday after it was swept from a flooded causeway near Gympie on Monday night. Police said it was believed the man travelled halfway across the bridge at Marys Creek Road before being swept away. A Gympie grandfather whose car was swept away in floodwaters on Monday night as his wife watched on has been identified. Neil Andrews died after his car was swept away in floodwaters in Gympie on Monday night. Credit:Facebook The body of Neil Andrews, 67, was found in his submerged car on Tuesday morning by rescue workers after being swept away from a flooded causeway. Police said he and his wife were travelling in separate cars when they came to the flooded bridge. It is believed Mr Andrews began driving across before stopping at the halfway point. He got out of the car in the raging floodwaters before getting back in and trying to drive through. He was swept away moments later about 6.50pm. Harrowing stories of sexual assaults, torture and chemical restraints have been shared by those who endured life in the Wolston Park Hospital, at Wacol, as children. Children in the care of the state were wrongly sent to adult mental health facilities between the 1950s and 1980s. The original Woogaroo Lunatic Asylum at Wacol had various names, including the Wolston Park Hospital. Credit:Michelle Smith They did not have a mental illness and suffered abuse and neglect. Community advocate Betty Taylor was appointed to lead the reconciliation process between the Queensland government and the women. The search for six missing fishermen off the central Queensland coast has been suspended on Tuesday evening, due to fading light and deteriorating weather conditions. The operation was hampered by bad weather throughout the day, which forced some aircraft and vessels to return to land, and police said the extreme conditions meant the hope of finding the fishermen alive was "rapidly deteriorating". The search area stretches from Seventeen Seventy to Bustard Head, just north of Middle Island A mixture of government and volunteer marine rescue vessels, foot patrols along the coast, fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters had been used in the operation but to no avail. Broadcasts across the marine radio network were expected to continue in an attempt to raise the missing boat, as well as alerting vessels in the area. The best-case scenario is we find six people in a life raft and thats what were aiming for at the moment but its not looking real promising. Sergeant Barnett said several items of debris understood to be from the 17-metre commercial trawler, including photographs, had been found during the search. Chris Sammut, 34 The trawler also had a life raft, but Sergeant Barnett said he didnt believe it or emergency positioning beacons on board had been used before the trawler sank at midnight. The search has been stop-start with severe weather hitting the area, forcing helicopters to return to their Gladstone and Rockhampton bases. Search teams have reported seas of two to three metres and wind speeds of 20 to 30 knots. Roads connecting Gladstone to 1770 have flooded, preventing family members of Mr McDornan and the other men on board reaching the area. Inspector Darren Somerville of Gladstone Patrol Group said the families were very shocked and upset. "We can't get people into or out of 1770 and that will probably be the case for a couple of days," Inspector Somerville said on Wednesday. The only survivor at this stage, Mr McDornan, has been staying at Agnes Waters and is assisting police. Police issued a statement on Thursday after speaking to the families of the missing men. "Today, the families expressed their appreciated for the work that is currently being done in relation to the search for the missing men and the thoughts of the community, however they ask for privacy and compassion during this extremely difficult time," the statement said. "At this time the family do not want to participate in any media opportunities or interviews." Specialist diving teams and sonar technology are on route from Brisbane and Sydney to the central Queensland coast and will hopefully arrive at the search area by Thursday afternoon. Sergeant Barnett said the poor weather made it difficult to get the specialist teams to the area. "Were doing our best to get them up here with the current conditions, given the equipment they have we pretty much need to transport them by road and were having some difficulty with the weather and some road closures," he said. Messages of support and hope for the missing men to be found alive have been posted online. Adam is strong, stubborn and fit and I'm hanging on to the fact that if anyone is a fighter it's Adam Bidner, the missing fishermans sister Jodie posted to Facebook. Eli Tonks' mother, Jenny, said her family was waiting in hope, comforted by the knowledge he was strong, capable and a fighter who'd never give up. But the torture of the search was evident. Missing fisherman Adam Bidner, whose sister posted a message of hope online. Credit:Facebook "Thank you to everyone for your love and support, we still have no news. Search continues," she wrote on Facebook before noon on Wednesday. Heidi Sargeant urged people to pray for her missing brother Adam Hoffman. "Come on Adam, the whole family is waiting for you to give us a call and tell us we are worrying about nothing!!" she wrote on Facebook. News Corp reported Mr McDornan heard the screams of his fellow crew members as he clung to the hull. Ruben Dornan was rescued by a passing yacht. A mixture of government and volunteer marine rescue vessels, foot patrols along the coast, fixed-wing aircraft and six helicopters are involved in the search. LifeFlight Chief Operations Officer Brian Guthrie, whose organisation was coordinating the helicopters, went to school with the boat skipper and was still hanging onto hope the men could be saved. Skipper Ben Leahy is missing after a trawler accident off the Queensland coast near 1770. "He's been [involved with boats] for well over 20 years," the COO said on Wednesday. "He's been a long time doing this, straight out of school is when Ben started working on boats and thats in all industries so abalone, pearls and recently into the sea cucumbers. "[Ben] is the most experienced person I know and if I was ever going out into the water it would be with Ben." Water police and Queensland Fisheries boats had scoured patches of debris in the area between Bustard Head and Agnes Water on Tuesday, while a beach patrol and aerial assistance was also underway. Eli Tonks is also missing at sea. "It was only through sheer luck that a passing couple on a yacht managed to hear the screams of the individual who was rescued and he raised the alarm," he said. A pedestrian is fighting for life after a driver lost control in the wet, knocking him into a Brisbane creek, paramedics say. The incident came as rescuers were combing a waterway near Gympie for another man who was swept away in floodwater on Monday evening while his wife watched. Paramedics rushed to Norman Creek, Woolloongabba, about 6.35am after a passerby found the pedestrian and the car in the creek, just off Turbo Drive. A car plunged into Norman Creek at Woolloongabba, reportedly knocking a pedestrian into the creek. The pedestrian, believed to be in his 40s, was rushed to the Princess Alexandra Hospital in a critical condition with significant chest and pelvic injuries plus signs of "post-immersion", a Queensland Ambulance Service spokeswoman said. Two helicopters and emergency teams are searching rough seas off the Central Queensland town of 1770 for six fishermen whose boat capsized about midnight overnight. Sam Cardwell from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority said seven men had been fishing for sea cucumbers on a trawler off 1770 on Monday night. Six men are in the water off the Town of 1770 where a sea cucumber trawler has sunk in rough seas. Credit:Google Maps Mr Cardwell said the vessel overturned near Middle Island about 7.30pm in the rough sea, sinking several hours later. He said no distress signal was activated by the men or received from the vessel. Authorities are "very confident" the human remains and personal belongings found inside a 4.3-metre crocodile, which was euthanased in far north Queensland on Tuesday, belong to a missing grandmother who disappeared a week ago. The reptile was captured and killed about 1am after wildlife officers from the Department of ENvironment and Heritage Protection spotted the animal on Sunday. EHP conservation operations manager Chris Artiemiew said the crocodile caught the attention of officers because ti was displaying "suttle behavioural differences". "It was basking during the day which usually means it has had a rather large feed, and also the boldness of it being out during the day (attracted our attention)," he said. Wildlife officers believe the crocodile was not local because they had not seen it before Some Domino's Australia customers have been receiving very strange emails after their details including name, email address and their favoured local pizza shops have apparently made their way into the hands of cyber crooks. Since at least late September, customers have been sent phishing emails from seemingly randomised email addresses, using their names and the suburbs of Domino's stores in an attempt to prompt a reply. Domino's Australia CEO Don Meij. Credit:Chris Hyde Typically these take the form of "Tim, it is Sarah, are you in Rozelle?" or "What's Up? Tim, it's Jess from Rozelle, my new email address". Though there's nothing in the emails to tie the data to Domino's, a Reddit user detailed his experience on r/Australia on Tuesday night, claiming he recognised the suburbs as places he had ordered Domino's from. He said he contacted the company and was told a Domino's supplier, which was passed user data in accordance with the policy customers agree to when using its online services, was breached. A walker has found abandoned oBikes on a Melbourne beach this morning, two of which look like they have been thrown into the ocean. The man said he saw the "oBike mess" on the beach everyday. Read transport reporter Timna Jacks story on the strict new rules slapped on oBikes here. The Turnbull government faces an uphill battle getting states to sign up to its new energy plan, as Premier Daniel Andrews savaged it as an "unspeakable" trashing of climate science and a capitulation to Tony Abbott's agenda. The government will need all the national electricity market states New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the ACT to agree to its national energy guarantee in order to implement it. The plan to force energy companies to meet mandated standards will require changes to state-based legislation. Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg briefed his state counterparts on Tuesday ahead of a face-to-face COAG meeting planned for late November. But both Premier Andrews and his South Australian counterpart Jay Weatherill have already condemned the "National Energy Guarantee". The man famously jailed for bashing media personality Sam Newman was found in a pool of blood after being stabbed behind a St Kilda supermarket. Underworld associate Michael "Mick" Hamill was stabbed outside the Woolworths store on Acland Street just after midday on Monday. Hamill, the business partner of former bikie Toby Mitchell, was rushed to The Alfred hospital after being stabbed multiple times at the rear entrance to the supermarket on Chaucer Street, near the Peanut Farm Reserve. An onlooker reported seeing a large pool of blood at the scene. A police spokeswoman said the man's injuries were serious. A source said the attack was sparked by a dispute over a debt. A large area along Chaucer Street, behind the Acland Street retail precinct, was cordoned off as police searched the scene on Monday afternoon. They searched around the Peanut Farm Reserve, Luna Park and a car park adjoining the Palais Theatre. Police are also expected to obtain CCTV footage from several shops and the Acland Street McDonald's restaurant. Hamill, who co-owns the City of Ink tattoo parlour along with Mitchell and former AFL star Jake King, was jailed in 1997 for bashing Sam Newman in a dispute over Hamill's former girlfriend. He is also a known associate of several prominent underworld figures, including Bandidos member and former kickboxer George Zakharia, who was imprisoned for robbery in the 1980s. It is not the first time Hamill has been involved in a violent altercation. He was previously in a wild brawl in Crown Casino's high-roller room with an underworld identity, whose name cannot be published for legal reasons. Former CFA chief Lucinda Nolan. Describing these as "visceral" reading, she was shocked by what she described as "the level of sheer aggression and disrespect" towards staff. The accounts included "several disclosures of sexual assault by operational staff against females", and several who were "driven almost to suicide by bullying and harassment". Former emergency services minister Jane Garrett Credit:Jason South But this was a message the new CFA hierarchy did not want to hear. Taylor says the report was buried a claim denied by current chief executive Frances Diver. Then, in the ultimate irony, Taylor herself became a target of bullying. Premier Daniel Andrews backs a new enterprise bargaining agreement sought by United Firefighters Union boss Peter Marshall. Credit:Chris Hopkins "I was intimidated and threatened about my own role and own wellbeing," she told Fairfax Media. "[I] was also told if I ever reported to anybody about the treatment of myself and what was done to me there, that CFA had long arms and CFA knew how to play dirty." UFU secretary Peter Marshall. Credit:Justin McManus In June, after year spent trying to get CFA top brass to respond to her report, Taylor went on stress leave. She remains a CFA employee, but has been told she is not welcome back. Now, for the first time, she is speaking publicly about her experience. --- Taylor's fledgling CFA career began with promise. She was appointed in late 2015 as a senior advisor on "gender, diversity and inclusion" under the new broom leadership of former senior policewoman Lucinda Nolan. Jane Garrett still had her job, and the Andrews government had commissioned Victoria's Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission to conduct a major inquiry into the CFA and MFB. Over at Nolan's old workplace, Victoria Police, the human rights commission had just released a damning report into sexual harassment. Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton and the police union had expressed full support for the inquiry and full commitment to embracing change. Hopes were high that the state's fire services and firefighters' union would respond likewise. Taylor, who designed her work to run parallel with that of the commission, was equally optimistic. Taylor had previously worked closely with police in Australia and overseas. Queensland Police Inspector Jon Rouse described her as one of the few academics respected by operational police, who had repeatedly sought her expertise on sexual violence. "It is rare for an academic to possess and demonstrate, through their academic work and police education, such a nuanced understanding of police work," he wrote in 2013, "and this strength is a major reason for the credibility and standing afforded Caroline among police practitioners". Taylor was used to hearing stories of abuse, but when the responses to the staff survey she designed for the CFA's professional, technical and administrative workers started coming in, she was shocked. Over 500 CFA staff responded, more than half of those eligible, many in depth. The vast majority reported a culture of bullying, fear and silence. "People recounted stories of sexual harassment including being touched, exposed to lewd suggestions, comments, sexually explicit names, derogatory names that were assigned to women in the organisation, women being indecently touched, assaulted and even raped," she says. "A number of staff said they had sought to report these and were shocked and distraught to find there was either no help forthcoming or they were intimidated or threatened for seeking to make that report." "People at CFA in their hundreds trusted myself and Lucinda and the survey, they trusted us with the most honest and detailed experiences that included criminal sexual assaults, and sexual harassment, and physical violence and bullying and intimidation. "Reading this material was very distressing but I knew and hoped it would be a basis to launch a process of change and deep engagement at a very serious level." It was her belief that the organisation must act. Then the setbacks began. A new enterprise bargaining agreement sought by United Firefighters Union boss Peter Marshall was unexpectedly backed by Daniel Andrews in a deal that perplexed many of his colleagues, and became an incendiary political issue. Garrett resigned as minister. Stories soon emerged that, during negotiations, Marshall had threatened to put an axe through her head a claim he denies along with allegations his union has any role in perpetuating bullying or harassment. Then, on June 17, 2016, Nolan also resigned. The CFA board was sacked shortly afterwards after it too refused to endorse the enterprise agreement. Taylor was shaken by Nolan's departure, but remained committed to pushing for change. "Like many others I feel bereft by your resignation but I know that some are now more determined than ever [to push for change]," she told her departing boss. Other senior officers quit the CFA and MFB, including MFB chief fire officer Peter Rau, whose wife blamed "stress as a result of bullying by the UFU and the current situation with the EBA [enterprise bargaining agreement]." Taylor says many CFA staff believe the union is part of the problem and that Andrews' support for it is inexplicable. "Many female staff, firefighters and non firefighting staff, relayed experiences to me ... of reporting sexual assaults and receiving phone calls from people connected with the union, threatening them directly about things that would be done to them if they went any further with their report. "These women were absolutely terrified." In July, as Taylor refined her confidential report on the staff survey, the human rights commission requested the CFA hand it over. Its findings were explosive. "Literally hundreds and hundreds of respondents gave detail of behaviours that included criminal sexual assault; sexual harassment; physical altercations; bullying; intimidation; harassment; threats of violence and other forms of inappropriate behaviour causing various degrees of distress," the Taylor report states. "Several respondents identified that they had contemplated suicide; others who had to seek psychiatric and medical intervention to support levels of stress, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation as a result of serious workplace conduct directed towards them. "Many other respondents wrote of needing to take medical leave as a direct consequence of bullying and harassment as well as requesting to be moved away from the department, locale or even district where they were working as a means of avoiding ongoing bullying and harassment." After the human rights commission was given her report, Taylor says she was warned by multiple staff that her work had annoyed powerful figures inside the fire services. Taylor was told one of them was Nolan's replacement, acting CEO Frances Diver. In response to the release by Fairfax Media of Taylor's survey and report on Tuesday, Diver said it was 18 months old, and had been conducted "in the heat of the moment in terms of the dispute at the CFA". She had already "acted on the findings in the report and we've implemented a range of actions within CFA", she said. "The important thing, I think, about the response to the survey is that CFA management take this seriously. CFA management and the board are the ones that set the culture in the organisation; it's our responsibility. We think we've got a problem, we know we've got a problem and we're acting on that problem." In bulletin sent to all CFA members late Tuesday, Diver blamed her predecessors: "This cultural problem is a legacy of inaction by former management." Shortly after her appointment to the job, in early August 2016, Diver, a former senior health bureaucrat hand-picked by Andrews, emailed Taylor saying she had "a number of questions/concerns regarding the governance and design of the work you have commenced". Diver also requested that Taylor give her access to the raw, anonymised staff survey responses. "I thought it may be useful for me to see the raw data (de-identified) so I could get a feel for the cultural issues you have summarised," Diver wrote on August 12, 2016. "This is data I understand that is owned by CFA and we are able to now use it for improvement purposes ensuring appropriate validation and confidentially is maintained." Taylor was immediately concerned. She had made promises of anonymity, and worried that others in the organisation could use the data to "hunt people down". "I certainly would not allow that. I had an ethical, legal and moral obligation to ensure people could not be identified." Taylor told Diver she would not hand it over. Over the next few months, Taylor was told by several colleagues that she was no longer welcome at the CFA. Her health suffered from increasing levels of stress. Still, as best she could, Taylor pushed for the CFA to engage with her report and to release the findings to staff, something she says senior executives failed to do. "I have to say, I wish CFA Board and OLT [organisation leadership team] would read this report so that they could get a grasp on the key themes from this very important data," she wrote to a senior colleague in the weeks before Christmas 2016. "I cannot overstate the distress of many staff about the organisational silence and lack of communication about the survey." "I am very saddened and frustrated the executive staff in this organisation have not shown any interest to read and understand this important data I feel [survey respondents] have been treated with contempt." In the new year, Taylor tried again. But she says some in the organisation appeared more focussed on managing fall-out from the human rights commission inquiry than implementing lasting reform. Correspondence seen by Fairfax Media reveals efforts inside the CFA to cushion the landing resulting from the human rights commission report. The firefighting authority hired a communications expert and strategised over how damaging the findings would be, and whether the CFA needed to acknowledge the fact the agency wouldn't change in the absence of searing public scrutiny. The union played its part in keeping the human rights commission's report from the public eye. It challenged its release in the Victorian Supreme Court, claiming it was a biased stitch-up. Union secretary Peter Marshall claimed the data was not secure and could have allowed people to respond multiple times. On the broader point of harassment and bullying, the union highlights the lack of any adverse finding against it by a court or tribunal when it comes to the treatment of CFA staff. On October 12, the human rights commission wrote to Taylor, confirming the ongoing delay in the report's release due to legal action. The email acknowledged to Taylor that "your contributions have proven invaluable to the work" of the commission. A year after Andrews' intervention in industrial negotiations, the enterprise agreement remains unsigned, the human rights commission's report has been blocked by Marshall and the union in court, and legislation to reform the fire services has stalled. From Taylor's point of view, the Premier has applied "a Band-Aid" to the culture of an organisation that needed instead to be "completely [blown] open". She says she is done waiting for the court battle to finish. "In speaking out, I don't seek to bring anybody down. I'm trying to raise something up. "I'm trying to honour the 500-plus staff who completed the survey and who with dignity and probity and trust gave extraordinary levels of detail of violence that occurred to them in the workplace," Taylor says. She has been warned that she will be attacked, but says that, for too long, people have stayed silent. "Nobody goes to work to be intimidated or harassed or sexually assaulted or raped, and find that, not only can they not report, but when they do they are set upon ... The shooting execution of a young man on a suburban Melbourne street is suspected to have been organised by an underworld figure from behind bars. Anwar Teriaki's killers lay in wait for up to 40 minutes for him to return to his parents' Roxburgh Park home on August 9 before they chased him down the street and shot him dead outside a neighbour's house. Police are investigating if the underworld figure gave his younger brother and an associate the green light to carry out the hit over an outstanding drug debt. It would mean the underworld figure, who cannot be named for legal reasons, continues to control a lucrative crime syndicate from behind bars. The WA opposition will soon decide whether to support the Labor government's proposed payroll tax but say they are still waiting to learn more about the possible sale of land title registry Landgate. Opposition Leader Mike Nahan said the Liberal Party would meet on Tuesday to decide its position on the payroll tax, which was revealed in the state budget. Mike Nahan voiced concern about the government's proposed payroll tax. Credit:Richard Wainwright The idea has been criticised by the WA Chamber of Commerce and Industry as having the potential to cost at least 1300 jobs. The Liberals already shot down Labor's gold royalty hike following a campaign by the industry, leaving a $392 million hole in the WA budget. Beijing: The eyes of the world will be on Beijing on Wednesday, as Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers the Communist Party's report on China's direction for the next five years. Australian anxieties over its largest trading partner's strategic intentions may find some answers if, as expected, Mr Xi articulates his vision for his country's role in the world as a major power. President Xi Jinping is expected to emerge from the twice-a-decade congress that starts on Wednesday as the most powerful figure in Chinese politics since Mao Zedong. Credit:AP The signs are China's more assertive new foreign diplomacy will be showcased at the party's national congress in a way not previously seen. Mr Xi is also expected to consolidate his grip on domestic power at the twice-a-decade meeting. During a discussion about LGBT rights, US President Donald Trump joked his Vice-President wanted to "hang all gay people". Trump, talking to a legal scholar during a White House discussion on gay rights, mocked Mike Pence's religious beliefs and social conservatism, The New Yorker magazine reported. Vice-President Mike Pence on a visit to California last week to raise money for endangered Republican congressional candidates. Credit:AP The comments were printed in a profile of the 58-year-old second-in-command, under the headline: "The danger of President Pence". According to the magazine, two sources said Trump was known to needle Pence about his views on abortion and homosexuality. Paris: Men who wolf whistle or are aggressively lecherous towards women on French streets face fines under a new sexism and sexual abuse law to be passed next year, the government confirmed on Monday. Marlene Schiappa, 34, the country's gender equality minister, said workshops would be held across France to discuss the bill, as tens of thousands of French women took to Twitter to share experiences of harassment in the workplace. French President Emmanuel Macron Credit:AP Emmanuel Macron, the president, said he wanted to tackle sexist male attitudes in public spaces and would send new contingents of community police to enforce the new law. "It's completely necessary because at the moment street harassment is not defined in the law," Ms Schiappa told RTL radio. Kirkuk, Iraq: After weeks of threats and posturing, the Iraqi government began a military assault on Monday to curb the independence drive by the nation's Kurdish minority, wresting oil fields and a contested city from separatists pushing to break away from Iraq. In clashes that pit two crucial US allies against each other, government troops seized the vital city of Kirkuk and surrounding oil fields, ousting the Kurdish forces who had controlled the region for three years in their effort to build an independent nation in the northern third of Iraq. The Kurds voted overwhelmingly in a referendum three weeks ago for independence from Iraq. The United States, Baghdad and most countries in the region condemned the vote, fearing it would fuel ethnic divisions, lead to the break up of Iraq and hobble the fight against the Islamic State. Iraqi government troops and the Kurdish forces, known as peshmerga, are both essential elements of the US-led coalition battling the Islamic State. Beirut: US-backed forces in Syria claimed they had full control of the Islamic State's onetime capital of Raqqa on Tuesday, suggesting an end to the militants' presence in their most symbolically important stronghold. Talo Silo, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, said that military operations had halted and that members of the joint Kurdish-Arab force were clearing the city of explosive devices and hunting for sleeping cells. It was still unclear whether some Islamic State pockets remained, but the SDF portrayed the battle for Raqqa as effectively over. On Wednesday, the US military said that it could only confirm that about 90 percent of Raqqa had been retaken from Islamic State militants RING ROAD:--- As part of the emergency relief efforts, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (ECYS) received 3 pavilions from the Netherlands on the Karel Doormans first trip to St. Maarten. The construction of the first of four pavilions began on Monday, October 16th on the Ring Road. The pavilions were given to the schools which received the most damage and were left without classrooms or an alternate location. The Charlotte Brookson Academy, the St. Maarten Academy and the MAC High are the three schools which will be utilizing the pavilions until the repairs at the schools have been completed. The pavilions are being constructed with representatives of Intertent, who are the manufacturers of the pavilions, the marines, the GENIE group of engineers, the Ministry of VROMI, as well as local contractors. Mr. Frits de Boer and Mr. Jeroen Harlaar, two representatives of Intertent, were deployed to St. Maarten to assist in the safety of the construction of the pavilions. Four more representatives from Intertent will be arriving on the island in the coming days to assist with the other pavilions. The other pavilions will be placed in Ebenezer near the Mac High Campus and partially on the land of the previous Prins Willem Alexander School for the St. Maarten Academy. All pavilions were strategically placed nearby the main campus to cater to students and facilitate the rotation of classes. The fourth pavilion was sent through the United States, and will be utilized by the Sister Marie Laurence School. The details on the placement of the fourth pavilion are yet to be determined. The representatives of the Charlotte Brookson Academy were at the Ring Road to witness the construction of the pavilions. The representatives of the CBA were very thankful to the Minister and the Ministry for the usage of the pavilions. The CBA was housed at the old Government Administration Building, however, due to the passing of Hurricane Irma, the building was severely damaged, rendering it unusable for the students, teachers and staff of the CBA. The exam and pre-exam classes are now being housed at the University of St. Martin and the Philipsburg Cultural and Community Center. The pavilions will be housing the schools until the major repairs and rebuilding is completed. The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, the honorable Silveria Jacobs, has been working closely with all the school boards ensure the schools have all necessities to assist in the smooth transition back to school. Press Release from Ministry of ECYS Go-to event structure and fabrication facility has become a bona fide disaster relief resource with deployments in areas impacted by Irma and Maria Miami, FL:--- Eventstar Structures is parlaying its expertise in fabrication and modular construction to help devastated communities rebuild across the Caribbean after an exceptionally disastrous hurricane season. Currently, the global company is involved with relief efforts in Cuba, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Dominica. Weve worked extensively in the Caribbean over the years, and consider many of the people affected to be part of our family. As soon as we saw the severity of the impacts, my partners and I began reaching out and mobilizing to see what we could do to assist, said Eventstars President and CEO, Alain Perez. The acclaimed events-industry infrastructure builder partnered with the not-for-profit Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), the only trade association representing the mutual interests between the cruise industry and destinations and stakeholders in the Caribbean and Latin America, in a coordinated effort to provide shelters ranging from 400 to 4,000 square feet to use for housing and temporary schooling. In so doing, they are supporting thousands that have been displaced and helping to advance much-needed rebuilding activities. I wish words could bring back the lost lives, rebuild the catastrophic damage and support people physically and emotionally in this time of need, but there are no words. However, the FCCA is fully committed to taking every possible action to help our partners during this tragedy, as they are not just our partners, but more like our family, and we are thankful to have Eventstar Structures as part of this family, said the FCCAs President, Michele Paige. Even with the looming threat from Hurricane Irma to its Miami headquarters, Eventstar was preparing over 200,000 square feet of structure for islands already severely impacted by the storm, deploying multiple base camps throughout Florida to support Florida Power & Lights and restoration efforts. Eventstar has been involved in disaster relief work dating back to Katrina. Since then the company has fortified its presence as a fixture of disaster relief by providing the same services for many other hurricanes and natural disasters, including a sizable disaster relief build-out after the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti in 2010. Hours after that devastating quake, Eventstars crews were on the ground to erect emergency field hospitals to support, among others, the University of Miamis Miller School of Medicine in their recovery efforts. Eventstar is continuing to evaluate how it can assist in the aftermath of the recent storms, including the impacts by Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, while also renewing its commitment to identify new techniques to aid in hurricane efforts throughout affected areas before, during, and after the storms hit. PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad & Tobago:--- Bank loans can help firms improve job quality and productivity, but are often difficult to get for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Consequently, policy-makers should look into ways to make it easier for SMEs to access such external funding. A 10 percentage point larger proportion of bank loans in working capital is associated with 2.2 percent higher wages, 5.9 percent higher labour productivity and 3.9 percent lower unit labour costs. By contrast, a 10 percentage point larger proportion of internal funds in working capital is associated with wages that are 1.3 percent lower, labour productivity that is 2.7 percent lower and unit labour costs that are 1.6 percent higher. But in many cases, SMEs cannot get bank loans, or only get credit at comparatively high rates, because they lack audited financial statements, repayment history and business assets for use as collateral. SMEs play a crucial role in creating jobs, but often lack access to the external funding they need, said Deborah Greenfield, ILO Deputy Director-General for Policy. Policy-makers need to consider strategies that would help SMEs access such funds, including bank loans for their working capital, which can have strong benefits for both workers and employers. The ILOs World Employment and Social Outlook 2017: Sustainable Enterprises and Jobs, shows that firms are more likely to make greater use of bank loans for working capital in countries which have stronger creditor rights protection. The same is true in countries that have addressed issues such as poor accountability, lack of respect for the rule of law and corruption. Some innovative practices have proven beneficial in allowing firms to access additional capital for growth, while supporting vulnerable groups and broader social and environmental issues. Germanys micro-mezzanine fund, for example, aims at promoting social inclusion by increasing financing opportunities for small business and start-ups. The financial instrument gives priority to specific groups, such as women, migrants and the unemployed, who are generally excluded from financial services due to their lack of credit history or scant equity. Another example is that of the Republic of Korea, which promotes the channeling of venture capital to SMEs, among other support measures, as part of the Governments creative economy. The measures include tax reductions and crowdfunding for start-ups, facilitation of mergers and acquisitions for enterprises in the development stage and promotion of reinvestment for more mature firms. ILO Press Release Representatives to participate in partnership with the St. Maarten delegation at the 24th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show PHILIPSBURG:--- Rainforest Adventures has announced a November 2017 opening for the new St. Maarten Rockland Estate eco-park. The park will launch with two signature attractions, The Flying Dutchman -- the worlds steepest zip line -- and the Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlift, as well as the Emilio Wilson Museum and Emilios Restaurant. Additional attractions, including the Sentry Hill Zip Line and the Schooner Ride will open in early 2018. In partnership with the St. Maarten delegation, representatives of Rockland Estate will be attending the 24th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in Merida, Mexico, October 23 October 27, 2017. They will be at booth B2 and welcome an opportunity to answer questions about, or introduce participants to, what is sure to be the eastern Caribbeans must-do attraction. According to Port St. Maartens management the eco-park will be a major new attraction and they are proud of the progress the team has made to open the park. They stress how important it is to have stakeholders like Rainforest Adventures and others to be present with them at the FCCA Conference to promote the destination and strongly emphasize the message that St. Maarten is back and open. We are very proud and thankful to our engineering and construction teams, their hard work and expertise certainly reduced the damage incurred as a consequence of the hurricane, says Shaydar Edelmann, General Manager of Rockland Estate. The people of St. Maarten have come together in strength to restore and rebuild, reestablish the tourism product and kick-start the recovery of our Friendly Island. Princess Juliana International Airport has opened to commercial flights and Port St. Maarten is ready to welcome its first commercial cruise vessel on November 5th. Restaurant and attraction businesses are reopening daily and are ready to receive guests. Opening November 2017 at Rainforest Adventures Rockland Estate Eco-Park The Soualiga Sky Explorer, a four-passenger chairlift, transports guests to the Upper Deck. These decks encircle the mountaintop, one of St. Maartens highest points at 1,115 feet, where they will be immersed in spectacular 360-degree views of St. Maarten and its neighboring islands. The Flying Dutchman, the worlds steepest zipline, where guests will experience the thrill of a lifetime as they launch down Sentry Hill on a flight line at 56 mph dropping 1050 feet in elevation over 2630 feet. Each adventure begins in the Emilio Wilson Museum housed in a restored plantation house originally built in the 1700s. Guests will see depictions of what life was like on a plantation and learn about the customs, traditions, lifestyle, and stories that earned Sint Maarten the nickname The Friendly Island. Emilios Restaurant, St. Maartens newest restaurant and entertainment hot spot. For more information and bookings email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , visit www.rainforestadventure.com/st-maarten or call toll-free from North America at +1.866.SKYTRAM (1.886.759.8726). Follow us @rainforestadventuresxm on Facebook and Instagram. Rainforest Adventures Press Release PHILIPSBURG:--- Head of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB) Rolando Brison is currently taking part in several strategic meetings with St. Maartens North American marketing firm and other stakeholders to outline and fine-tune the islands short, mid, and long-term plans for tourism recovery in the aftermath of hurricane Irma. The STB and St. Maartens North American marketing firm MMGY Global has identified a number of activities that will be initiated in collaboration with stakeholders on St. Maarten and abroad. To kick-off the strategic sessions on Tuesday in New York, Brison and MMGY representatives hosted a conference call with the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) to discuss the short-to-long-term plans, with SHTA offering its opinions and recommendations for immediate and future actions. Among the issues discussed: Constant Public Relations should continue to counter the overly negative news that may arise about the destination since the storm. Continued B2B (Business to Business) approach to ensure that key stakeholders are informed and relay accurate information about the status of the island. Stakeholders should be in a position to assist STB in countering misinformation. Support of the marine sector representatives who will be at the Fort Lauderdale and Antigua Boat Shows. Drive awareness of the hotels that are back online. Continue discussions for the resumption of service of major airlines Promote the fact that the two main festivals, St. Maarten Carnival and Heineken Regatta will be held in 2018. Relaunch (in 6 to 9 months) the Trip Advisor, Expedia and other campaigns in order to drive business for the summer Reshape (in the longer term) the image of St. Maarten to change/adapt the seasonability factor once and for all. Brison also explained that SHTA and STB are hoping to have just under 50 percent of hotel room inventory during the next 6 to 9 months. He added strategic sessions are also planned with one of North Americas biggest tour operators, Apple Leisure Group, on Wednesday. Additionally, sessions will be held with USA Today and other major publications with emphasis on not just destination promotion, but effectively changing any misinformation about the island that might be out there and at least letting people know of the progress of the destination in terms of recovery. We are also meeting with major airlines, including American, Delta and JetBlue, to discuss when these airlines will resume regular service and what it will take for that to happen. Now more than ever it will take all stakeholders, together, to get us back on track as a tourism destination. We know what our potential is, we know our respective sectors. Now we should ensure a cohesive effort to help St. Maarten recover, Brison said. Brison and Minister of Tourism Mellissa Arrindell-Doncher is also scheduled to attend key upcoming tradeshows such as the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Cruise Conference and others. Our presence at these shows, and our interactions with industry executives at this stage of our recovery cannot be overstated and is of the utmost importance, Brison said. MMGY Global, Inc. is an integrated travel marketing company. It offers industry and brand research to identify the habits and preferences of travelers; develops creative solutions tailored to various marketing channels; deploys integrated plans across various marketing disciplines to target and convert travelers throughout the entire travel experience; and provides outcome measurement tools. Press Release from Ministry of TEATT CUL DE SAC:--- The St. Maarten Guyanese Association (SMGA) has resumed its weekly meetings and is encouraging all nationals of Guyana to attend on Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at 7:30pm. The meeting will be held at its 158 B Back Street location in Philipsburg. The SMGA held its first post-Hurricane Irma meeting last Thursday (October 12, 2017), where persons were updated on matters of concern and interim board members selected. The association is currently asking all persons to attend Wednesday night's meeting in order to provide information to begin developing a database of Guyanese and their descendants living on the island. This information is needed in order to have a true reflection of the size of the Guyanese community so that in times of disaster, persons can be easily contacted and marked as safe. Additionally, the association wants to be able to assist where it can in all aspects, as outlined in its constitution. 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LoRa Alliance(TM) Enables Global IoT Roaming and Device Deployment; Convenes in China for 9th All Members Meeting Hosted by ZTE SUZHOU, CHINA (Marketwired) 10/17/17 The LoRa Alliance, the global association of companies backing the open LoRaWAN standard for internet of things (IoT) low-power wide-area networks (LPWANs), released its latest technical specifications to kick off the organizations 9th All Members Meeting (AMM) taking place in Suzhou, China and hosted by ZTE. New features in the latest specification releases include roaming and separation of backend nodes, which will enable IoT devices to connect to and move between LPWANs around the world. This supports large-scale deployments and enables new global services such as cargo tracking. Such features are critical in the Alliances mission to standardize LPWANs globally and drive widespread adoption of the LoRaWAN protocol as the de facto standard for IoT connectivity. The importance of China in the global electronics supply chain is a key reason we are bringing the Alliance members together in Suzhou, said Geoff Mulligan, chairman of the LoRa Alliance. With todays specifications extending the reach of the LoRaWAN protocol, now is an ideal time to engage with our colleagues in China to address their market-specific requirements. Only through the collaboration of all of our global ecosystem in a single standard can we advance members interests and drive the ongoing adoption of LoRaWAN technology. We are excited to welcome the Alliance here to Suzhou and discuss these developments this week, said Liu Jianye, VP of AMM host sponsor ZTE. The AMM offers a unique opportunity for local vendors to have in-depth, face-to-face engagement with the LoRa Alliance ecosystem. We believe the LoRaWAN protocol is the technology system that is suitable for low-cost IoT applications. Based on the LoRaWAN specification, ZTE CLAA leads the operation of the worlds largest application alliance (850+ members, 100+ application types, 40+ commercial applications). With its strategic partners, ZTE CLAA tries to expand the city-level LoRaWAN network operation; with terminal and application partners, ZTE CLAA provides abundant, comprehensive IoT solutions. Here at the LoRa Alliance All Members Meeting, we can see how quickly the interest and commitment to the LoRaWAN protocol are growing in China, said Bing Liu, CEO of platinum AMM sponsor ThingPark China. The Ecosystem Lab and Marketplace we are launching at this AMM will help accelerate the growth of LoRaWAN specifications-based IoT in China by supporting the local ecosystem at every stage from developing and testing their products to distributing solutions to local customers and taking them to market worldwide, and wed like to extend an invitation to any company in China that is interested in adopting, developing and marketing LoRaWAN products globally to join our ecosystem. The Alliance officially announced the availability of the following specifications today: LoRaWAN 1.1 with support for handover roaming, and Class B and security enhancements LoRaWAN Backend Interfaces 1.0 with support for decomposing the network into interoperable nodes, as required for inter-vendor roaming LoRaWAN 1.1 Regional Parameters rev. A, which describes region-specific radio parameters for LoRaWAN 1.1 end-devices The enhancements delivered in these specifications offer important functionality improvements for users in terms of interoperability and network reach. Specifically, support for roaming will allow for large-scale deployments, since vendors will know that their LoRaWAN protocol-based products could potentially operate worldwide. At the same time, the new backend specification provides the protocols that interconnect servers with distinct roles such as controlling the MAC layer, end-point authentication, or applications behind the scenes in the core network. Separating these servers allows an open choice of vendors for each element of the value chain, empowering the ecosystem. For the IoT to reach its forecast potential, an ability to deploy devices on a massive scale is a key enabler, said Mulligan. The enhancements introduced today advance the LoRaWAN protocol, further opening up the ecosystem, enhancing interoperability and expanding the reach of existing LoRaWAN networks. The 9th AMM is taking place Oct. 17-20, 2017 in Suzhou, China. In addition to host ZTE, the event is being sponsored by ThingPark China, Semtech, STMicroelectronics, Orbiwise, Kiwi Technology, Lierda, Winext Technology, AcSip, and Siradel, representing the Alliances diverse geographic and technical membership. The event will feature an Open House on Thursday, Oct. 19, with a program dedicated to exploring the use of the LoRaWAN protocol in China and understanding the diverse applications and vertical markets experiencing successful adoption. The Open House is open to the public, and interested parties may join us at the Shangri-La Hotel in Suzhou on Thursday, Oct. 19 at 8:00 a.m. and register on-site. The latest LoRaWAN Specification features the following capabilities: Support for handover roaming, which allows transferring control of the end-device from one LoRaWAN network to another. Earlier versions of this specification can already be used for passive roaming, which is transparent to the end-device. Bidirectional end-devices with scheduled receive slots (Class B) are part of the specification enhancements and are now officially supported. Enhancements for additional security hardening. In order to support heterogeneous deployments and not force a globally coordinated upgrade, both LoRaWAN 1.1 end-devices and networks will support backward compatibility to interoperate with their LoRaWAN 1.0.x legacy peers. The new LoRaWAN Backend Interfaces 1.0 specification enables the following capabilities: Has the ability to break down the network into network server (NS), join server (JS) and application server (AS). Enables roaming for both LoRaWAN 1.0.x (passive roaming only) and LoRaWAN 1.1 networks (both passive and handover roaming). Identifies the entity that stores end-device credentials (including root keys) as JS. It can be separated from networks and administered by an entity independent of the networks that the end-device may be using. This allows networks to offload the authentication procedure to a dedicated system, which can also be operated by a third party. This third-party JS also enables an end-device to be manufactured without having to be personalized for the networks it may eventually be connecting to. The LoRa Alliance is an open, nonprofit association that has grown to more than 500 members since its inception in March 2015, becoming one of the largest and fastest-growing alliances in the technology sector. Its members closely collaborate and share experiences to promote the LoRaWAN protocol as the leading open global standard for secure, carrier-grade IoT LPWAN connectivity. With the technical flexibility to address a broad range of IoT applications, both static and mobile, and a certification program to guarantee interoperability, the LoRaWAN protocol has already been deployed by major mobile network operators globally, with continuing wide expansion in 2017. For information about joining the LoRa Alliance, please visit . Asia: Ina Chu +1 217-766-1011 US/EU: Eric Lawson +1 480-276-9572 ARHT Media Announces Peter Diamandis Appears as a Live HumaGram(TM) to Deliver the Keynote Address at the 2017 FinTech Forum in Montreal TORONTO, ONTARIO (Marketwired) 10/17/17 ARHT Media Inc. (ARHT or the Company) (TSX VENTURE: ART), creators of digital human holograms called HumaGrams, joined the 2017 FinTech Forum this week highlighting its telepresence technology to a sold-out crowd. Spearheaded by Finance Montreal, the FinTech Forum has a mandate to identify and develop business opportunities for the global financial services and information technology industries. Using the Companys patented Holographic Telepresence technology, ARHT successfully beamed in XPRIZE Founder, Dr. Peter Diamandis, from Toronto to the Palais des Congres in Montreal to participate in a Q&A session titled Exponential Innovation: Fundamental Changes Enabled By New Technologies. Named by Fortune Magazine as one of the Worlds 50 Greatest Leaders, Dr. Diamandis impressed a crowd of thousands by appearing as a 3D HumaGram. At ARHT, we strive to align ourselves with organizations that promote innovation and development especially when that is strongly associated with technology, said Paul Duffy, CEO of ARHT. Working with FinTech was an excellent collaboration where topics of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity were discussed and debated at length. This year over 1,500 attendees participated in the two-day event. Because of ARHTs technology, I didnt have to miss this important conference and was able to still engage with experts across multiple fields and discuss the disruptive potential of financial technologies, said Dr. Diamandis. By beaming me into the conference as a 3D HumaGram, we were able to further highlight the pace at which technology is moving and how it is effectively eliminating barriers of time and space. ARHT continues to release market-driven enhancements to their technology stack, thus broadening recurring revenue opportunities beyond major events and conferences. Our new patent-pending screen design also allows for the display to operate in more venues with different lighting conditions, bringing ARHT closer to mass commercialization of our technology, said Duffy. It was an honour to work with Dr. Diamandis and the impressive group behind FinTech. This was a perfect opportunity to deploy the latest iteration of our holographic display. About ARHT Media ARHTs patented Augmented Reality Holographic Telepresence technology is the worlds first complete end-to-end solution for the creation, transmission, and delivery of lifelike digital human holograms, known as HumaGrams. The companys technology is protected by U.S. Patent No. 9,581,962. Connect with ARHT on Social Media: Twitter: Facebook: LinkedIn: For more information, please visit or contact the investor relations group at . ARHT Media trades under the symbol ART on the Toronto Venture Stock Exchange. About Dr. Peter Diamandis In 2014 Fortune Magazine named Peter Diamandis as one of the Worlds 50 Greatest Leaders. Diamandis is the Founder & Executive Chairman of the XPRIZE Foundation, which leads the world in designing and operating large-scale incentive competitions. He is also the Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of Singularity University, a graduate-level Silicon Valley institution that counsels the worlds leaders on exponentially growing technologies. This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the Companys technology; the potential uses for the Companys technology; the future planned events using the Companys technology; the applications and prospects of the Companys new technologies; the future success of the Company; the ability of the Company to monetize the HumaGram technology; the development of the Companys technology; the hiring of a new Director of Operations; the granting of stock options; and how the Companys technology will impact the speaking marketplace. 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 the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic and competitive uncertainties; regulatory risks; risks inherent in technology operations; and other risks of the technology industry. Although the Company 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. The Company 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: ARHT Media Public Relations Kam Gill +1 416 861 5875 ARHT Media Press Contact Salman Amin Cherubim Interests Inc. Acquires Flagship Property for Launch of Technology and Business Concept PORTLAND, OR (Marketwired) 10/17/17 Cherubim Interests, Inc. (OTC PINK: CHIT) (the Company), an expansion-stage alternative construction and real estate development company, announces that it has acquired its Flagship location to deploy its BudCube Cultivation Systems technology and hybrid business concept. The property, located in Lowell, Oregon, will serve as the companys flagship leasing center, comprising of more than twenty acres zoned F2 or Impacted Forest Land. F2 zoned property is primarily resource land to be used for forestry, agriculture and related activities. The property is also located across the street from Fall Creek Farm and Nursery, the worlds leading blueberry nursery stock and breeding company, providing the industrys best blueberry genetics, plants & technical support to commercial fruit growers around the globe and situated less than twenty minutes from Interstate- 5 freeway, one of the largest major interstate roadways in the United States. We are excited to acquire this property because it is already zoned for agri-business, removing the need for any additional zoning variances, says Patrick Johnson, CEO of CHIT. This gives us the ability to offer an extremely private and secure environment for our tenants with enough acreage to deploy both single and multi-tenant business concepts moving forward. This property is a rare find and we are very fortunate to have it in the fold. BudCube Cultivation Systems (BCS) is pioneering in the real estate development and medical as well as recreational cannabis cultivation industries. The Company will lease modular turnkey cultivation facilities to new and existing market participants in mini-storage or co-op farming, as well as single-tenant or big box concepts. The company initially conducts research to determine land purchase and improvements, as well as construction and deployment to location for leasing, says Patrick Johnson, CEO of CHIT. These modules provide the floor space and square footage required for operations. We then deliver, install and connect the modules while providing standard operating procedures and ongoing maintenance as needed. The multi-tenant concept allows for multiple tenants to rent individual, self-contained BCS cultivation units at a secure location staffed with management, maintenance, and security personnel. BCS will offer either facilities constructed of retrofitted shipping containers or Via modular building components . Local zoning variances, climate and logistics, will determine which application the company will use. The single-tenant concept allows for an entity to enter into a long-term lease agreement with an option to purchase the facility (plus land if applicable) at the end of the lease term for a sales price determined considering fair market value. This is a much larger square footage concept with construction techniques and materials determined on a case by case basis. This industry is moving very rapidly, states Patrick J. Johnson, CEO of Cherubim Interests, Inc. As we see the front of legalization push across States, companies are scrambling to catch up. The market is there, the demand is high, but the supply from legal cultivators is low. Cherubim Interests and BudCube Cultivation Systems are uniquely positioned at this perfect apex of an emerging, billion-dollar market; we are positioning ourselves to meet the impending demand by supplying the facility necessary to bring existing as well as start-up mom and pop businesses into full scale production in a matter of months. Through strategic alliances BCS Leasing Centers will offer the following services to consumers: Standard Operating Procedures Cultivation Inventory Control and Management Systems Genetics Counseling and Testing Procedures Extract Processing and Equipment Design, and Proprietary Product Line(s) What makes this hybrid business model so compelling is that our facilities will command extraordinary high rental rates per square foot due to rental rates being charged in the cannabis industry across our nation, said CHIT CEO Patrick Johnson. Our concept, once deployed, will offer investors exponentially high rates of return compared to most traditional commercial real estate assets, and also increasing the companies valuation significantly faster than traditional commercial assets would in the same scenario for our stockholders. BudCube Cultivation Systems USA (BCS) has developed a proprietary, fully portable and scalable, Controlled Environment Cultivation Technology that serves as a turnkey solution for cultivators of legal medical and recreational cannabis, as well as any other plant species. Coupled with a real estate development and property management business model, BudCube Cultivation Systems can position itself anywhere in the world where the cultivation of cannabis is legal. BCS provides cultivation solutions for commercial application. It offers cultivators quick entry into a fast-growing market at a price point that is very attractive when compared to the traditional construction and cultivation solution. BCS features a business model unparalleled in the industry and stands to benefit greatly as more and more market participants seek to gain entry into this sector. For more information, visit Cherubim Interests specializes in alternative construction projects, as well as covering the entire spectrum of real estate development: due diligence, acquisition, planning, construction, renovation, and management; providing complete beginning-to-end development programs for mixed use, single, and multifamily projects and properties. For more information, visit This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E and/or 27E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that are based upon assumptions that in the future may prove not to have been accurate and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including statements as to the future performance of the company and the risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in reports filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations or any of its forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Factors that could cause results to differ include, but are not limited to, the companys ability to raise necessary financing, retention of key personnel, timely delivery of inventory from the companys suppliers, timely product development, product acceptance, and the impact of competitive services and products, in addition to general economic risks and uncertainties. IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: Cherubim Interests, Inc. (OTC PINK: CHIT) and BudCube Cultivation Systems USA are planning execution of their stated business objectives in accordance with current understanding of State and Local Laws and Federal Enforcement Policies and Priorities as it relates to Marijuana (as outlined in the Justice Departments Cole Memo dated August 29, 2013), and plan to proceed cautiously with respect to legal and compliance issues. Potential investors and shareholders are cautioned that the companies will obtain advice of counsel prior to actualizing any portion of their business plan. Advice of counsel with regard to specific activities of the companies, Federal, State or Local legal action or changes in Federal Government Policy and/or State and Local Laws may adversely affect business operations and shareholder value. For more information, please contact: Cherubim Interests, Inc. Patrick J. Johnson Chief Executive Officer (844) 842-8872 Chipolo Card, the Thinnest Wallet Finder Available, Now Shipping Pre-Orders and Available for Purchase Worldwide NEW YORK, NY (Marketwired) 10/17/17 Wallets are among the most common items people lose. In just a five-year period, 323 million people in the United States alone will have lost their wallet according to CPP. , the Slovenian, self-funded Bluetooth tracker startup giving every item the power to be found, solves this all too common problem with Chipolo Card, which is now shipping pre-orders and available for purchase. The company is also releasing new iterations of its Classic and Plus Bluetooth trackers as well as offering new, more vibrant colors to reflect the brands redesign. At .08 inches thick, 11 percent thinner than Tile Slim and 63 percent thinner than TrackR Bravo, Chipolo Card beats out competitors to become the worlds thinnest Bluetooth tracker available today. Its thin profile helps you quickly locate lost wallets, passports and other small, but largely important items without adding bulk. Control your Chipolo Card though the Chipolo app, available for both and users. When your item goes missing within 200 feet of you, you can sound a 95-decibel ring to locate it. Avoiding losing your wallet and other personal items can be simple, especially when you have an entire community readily available to help in your search, said Primo? Zelensek, CEO and co-founder of Chipolo. While we are focused on giving every inanimate object the power to be found, the true excitement of our products stems from Chipolos community coming together to help one another find lost items. By integrating the Chipolo Platform into partner products with , and more, the community has multiplied tenfold in the past year alone. What happens if youre out of Bluetooth range? Not sure if your wallet is at home or on the bus? Easy! Chipolos global Lost & Found Network bridges together users to help one another recover lost items. The connected community will automatically start searching for your lost wallet, and if one of the thousands of Chipolo users passes by it while running the app, youll receive a confidential update with your wallets last known location. Chipolos growing network is enabling users to find more than 50,000 lost items daily. As a part of the companys rebrand, Chipolo is also releasing the second-generation editions of its original products, and . Both products received hardware updates and new box designs with a reimagined logo. The Classic and Plus trackers are now available in a variety of six colors, so you can mix and match your Chipolos with all your important personal items. The bright colors make it even easier to find your lost items, and represent the colorful, energetic spirit of the Chipolo team. The companys brand refresh highlights clean and modern design as an extension of its simplistic company philosophy. Chipolos story began with a professional, yet colorful group of friends working together to solve the simple, everyday problem of finding misplaced keys. Echoing the sense of family we instill in our office, through our rebrand, weve further solidified our mission to create a supportive, loyal community that can rely on one another to track down lost items. Were a passionate, vibrant and confident bunch at Chipolo and wanted to ensure the new logo, box designs and colors mirror who we are as a company. Purchase the Chipolo Card for $35 and the new editions of Chipolo Classic and Chipolo Plus for $25 . Chipolo, Inc. is an innovative multinational technology company, recognized as one of the leading brands on the Bluetooth tracker market. With Chipolo smart devices people can connect their belongings to the Chipolo app and from there on into a global community that is also open to external business partners and their products. Present in more than 200 countries and growing rapidly, the company is revolutionizing the way people look for their misplaced and lost belongings. Chipolo strongly believes in the power of its community and is already finding more than 50,000 misplaced items every day. With an exponentially growing network, they are paving the way to a world where we find everything together. Paige Thornton Uproar PR for Chipolo 312-878-4575 x 240 Rye Patch Outlines Program to Expand Oxide Resources and Explore Sulfide Potential at Florida Canyon and Lincoln Hill Posted by Publisher Internet Rye Patch Gold Corp. (TSX.V: RPM; OTCQX: RPMGF; FWB: 5TN) (the ?Company? or ?Rye Patch? https://www.youtube.com/ ) outlines a three-year program to expand oxide resource and delineate sulfide potential along the Oreana trend in west-central Nevada. The program is designed to increase measured and indicated oxide resources at Florida Canyon and Lincoln Hill and quantify and deliver a sulfide resource beneath the Florida Canyon oxide deposit. A Phase 1 10,000 metre expansion drilling campaign at the Florida Canyon mine is planned which seeks to increase the oxide resource and to test and confirm the grade, character and extent of the sulfide mineralization beneath the oxide ore body. The initial drill program will consist of 1,200 metres of core and 8,800 metres of reverse circulation drilling. Drillhole depths will range between 150 to 300 metres for the sulfide program and 60 to 180 metres for the oxide program. The estimated cost of the phase-1 campaign is US$1 million, and the program commenced in early October. At the end of the three-year program, Rye Patch anticipates delivering significant additional oxide resources at Florida Canyon and Lincoln Hill, and a sulfide resource beneath the Florida Canyon oxide deposit. A portion of the sulfide body above the water table may also lend itself to an accelerated mine and processing option for the Company. William Howald, the Company?s President and CEO noted, ?Over the history of the Florida Canyon mine, a total of 3.5-million ounces of gold from oxide material has been placed on the historic leach pad and the Company is currently mining a 1.12-million ounces of measured and indicated oxide gold resource. Based on our exploration model, Management believes the sulfide resource beneath Florida Canyon has a similar number of ounces of gold but at a much higher grade. If our exploration model is correct, the combined oxide and sulfide mineralization could make Florida Canyon a world-class deposit in Nevada.? Sulfide Program The core program will focus on the sulfide deposit beneath the Florida Canyon oxide resource. The objective of the drill program is to establish the overall size, extent and thickness of the sulfide body and collect material for additional metallurgical testing. In 1996, Pegasus Gold completed an internal report titled ?Sulfide Project Pre-feasibility Study? dated July 18, 1996 on the sulfide mineralization at Florida Canyon. A total of 262 drillholes (241 RC and 21 core) touched or penetrated the sulfide body and yielded an average grade of 2.36 g/t gold in the sulfide with gold values as high as 100 g/t Au (2.93 opt Au) in a northeast oriented structural zone. Pegasus completed a resource estimate within a Whittle pit design at US$400 gold price, and a series of metallurgical tests including floatation, pressure oxidation, roasting, and bio-oxidation. The metallurgical test work showed an overall recovery of 90% with flotation with 94% of the gold reporting to a sulfide concentrate. Additional metallurgical test work will be done by Rye Patch on material from the drill program. A Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify this historical information as a current mineral resource or mineral reserve and the Company is not treating this historical information as a current mineral resource or mineral reserve. The core program will also test the distribution of the sulfide body and validate the current geologic model and high-grade ore controls. Core holes will be located to test the down dip extension of sulfides between the Radio Tower and Central pits; the down dip extension west of the Main pit; and potential structural zone east of the Radio Tower and Central pit areas. An additional 2,700 metres of reverse circulation drilling will target the down dip potential and structural controls on the sulfide zone to help validate the geologic model. The RC program will fill in gaps between historic sulfide drilling programs to see if the mineralization connects between areas which, if positive, could have a dramatic impact on the potential size of the sulfide mineralization. Oxide Program The objective of the oxide program is to expand and upgrade the current oxide resource and step out along structural zones. A total of 5,500 metres of drilling is planned with drillhole depths ranging between 60 and 180 metres. The program will include upgrading inferred material within the designed pits to measured and indicated adjacent to the Radio Tower and Central pit areas. A major portion of the program will be step-out drilling along low- and high angle structural trends. The primary drill target is the contact between Grass Valley siltstone and Natchez Pass limestone. The contact is a low-angle fault (thrust fault) which controls mineralization in Radio Tower and Central pits. The zone is significant within the mine and may represent a regional exploration target. Drilling will target jasperioid alteration and hydrothermal breccias within the thrust fault zone. Mr. William Howald, AIPG Certified Professional Geologist #11041, Rye Patch Golds CEO and President with a BSc. in Geological Engineering, is a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101. He has reviewed and approved the contents of this news release. About Rye Patch Gold Corp. Rye Patch Gold Corp. is a Nevada focused, Tier 1, precious metal mining company engaged in the mining, development and exploration of a 180 square kilometre land package along the prospective Oreana trend in west central Nevada. Leveraging its strong financial position and cash to acquire the Florida Canyon Gold mining operation, Rye Patch now controls a trend scale platform with mining operations, resource projects and significant exploration potential. The combination of mining and a growth profile along a major Nevada gold trend positions Rye Patch to become an emerging North American mid-tier precious metal producer. For more information, please visit our website at www.ryepatchgold.com. On behalf of the Board of Directors For additional information contact: ?William Howald? Rye Patch Gold Corp William C. (Bill) Howald, CEO & President info@ryepatchgold.com Tel.: (604) 638-1588 Swiss Resource Capital AG Jochen Staiger info@resource-cpaital.ch www.resource-capital.ch Fax: (604) 638-1589 Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to future plans and objectives of the Company, future production and deliveries of gold, proposed operations of the Company including mine development, funding requirements, future events and conditions and other statements that are not historical facts, all of which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. The Companys actual results, programs and financial position could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of numerous factors, some of which may be beyond the Companys control. These factors include, but are not limited to: future deliveries of gold pursuant to the forward gold price contract facility, the achievement of mine redevelopment plans and production results; the availability of funds; the financial position of Rye Patch; the timing and content of work programs; the results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; the reliability of calculation of mineral resources; the reliability of calculation of precious metal recoveries; the receipt and security of mineral property titles; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; fluctuations in metal prices; currency fluctuations; and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations, opinions and assumptions of the Companys management on the date the statements are made including, but not limited to, the continued operation of the Company?s mining operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, and mining operations and production to be completed in accordance with management?s expectations. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. As a result, the Company cannot guarantee that the drawdowns under the Credit Facility and the Florida Canyon mine redevelopment will be completed on the terms and within the time disclosed herein or at all. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. NEW WAYS OF COMMUNICATION AND FINANCING FOR RESOURCE COMPANIES IS OUR MISSION! TRANSPARENCY, QUALITY AND EDUCATION OUR BOOSTER! Website: https://www.resource-capital.ch/en.html The world finance system is facing massive uncertainty and risk making it imperative that one has wide-ranging knowledge about alternative investment opportunities. Ensure your financial future by taking control. Diversification is the means to survive the current and future market difficulties with a specific focus on value investing such as quality stocks, precious metals and resources in general. Swiss Resource Capital AG is your partner entering the mining industry. We also work very closely with successful investment funds and asset managers. SRC has a worldwide professional network of experts and unique access to financings, allowing investors to be part of a company at early stages. Ongoing analysis, monitoring and contact with the management and site visits of selected projects keeps us abreast of promising investment opportunities in the resource sector. Our news distribution system keeps you all the time informed and up to date about the latest developments. We assist you and deliver clear and concise information pertaining to the precious metals and the resource sector as well as selected mining companies. Through our new developed multimedia channels like the exclusive Resource-TV you have access anytime and anywhere in the world to comprehensive data and information as well as access via our log in function to the free research area of our website. Via exclusive events and one-on-one meetings we offer interested investors in many countries the opportunity to get direct information from and personal access to the management of various mining companies. We make sure that you know what we know! Colt Set to Keynote at Light Reading Automation Half-Day Event in London NEW YORK, NY (Marketwired) 10/17/17 Light Reading () is pleased to announce that Fahim Sabir, Director of Architecture and Development at Colt on Demand, is the featured service provider keynote speaker at the inaugural Automation & the New Carrier Network event () in London on November 2 at 8 Northumberland Avenue. Sabir will present from 9:30 9:50 AM on November 2 at the event and also sit on the panel session, Modeling Automation Is One Common Approach Required? At Colt on Demand, Sabir is responsible for the delivery of next-generation connectivity service platforms, specializing in SDN and NFV technologies. He is passionate about driving industry initiatives and is a leader in Colts work with industry partners and bodies to standardize on key elements to enable easier integration. Fahim has almost two decades experience in telecoms, managed IT and network services and cloud computing, focusing on the architecture, development and operation of complex platforms, with a keen interest in orchestration, automation and interoperability. Other confirmed event speakers include: Oliver Cantor, Business Network & Security Solutions, Verizon David Hughes, Vice President, IP Engineering, PCCW Global Mervyn Kelly, EMEA Marketing Director, Ciena Wim Gerrits, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, NetYCE Dr. Jay Perrett, Chief Technology Officer & Founder, Aria Networks is a half-day event that brokers a conversation about what the industrys next steps should be. Industry leaders will discuss the state of automation, NFV and SDN, and stimulate a dialogue about how to fit the pieces together and map them to sustainable business cases. The event is FREE for all attendees. To register, visit . To learn more about the event and to view the agenda, visit . Automation & the New Carrier Network is sponsored by gold sponsors Aria Networks, Ciena and NetYCE. For sponsorship opportunities, contact . Follow Light Reading on , , and for all the latest news. About Light Reading Light Reading () combines its research-led online communities and targeted events portfolio to help those in the global communications industry make informed decisions. Lightreading.com is the ultimate source for telecom analysis for more than 400,000 subscribers each month, leading the media sector in terms of traffic, content and reputation. Light Reading produces targeted communications events and focused one-day and two-day conferences each year for cable, mobile and wireline executives. Light Reading Erin Cardinal 646-618-8854 Deidre DeJear, a candidate for the Democratic nomination for Iowa secretary of state, is planning a listening tour to hear Iowans concerns on changes in the state election law and administrative rule changes regarding voter ID and signature verification requirements. I take seriously the responsibility of increasing voter turnout and making voting accessible, she said in announcing the tour that will begin Oct. 25 in Dubuque. In light of these new rules, it is important that we hear the voices of Iowans in order to make informed decisions around voter education. Whether Democrat, Republican, Libertarian or independent, all Iowans not only should be informed, but have an opportunity to weigh in. Her listening tour will stop in Cedar Falls Oct. 26 and in Iowa City Nov. 17. DeJear, 31, of Des Moines, is a graduate of Drake University who has worked in banking and started her own business, Caleo Enterprises, which says it provides affordable marketing tools and business strategies to entrepreneurs. DeJear said she has worked with more than 140 small businesses and non-profits. While working on President Barack Obamas 2012 campaign, DeJear developed and implemented a program to educate and mobilize low-propensity voters, which, she said, resulted in more than 5,000 new registrants statewide and more than doubled African-American turnout. Since then, DeJear has developed and implemented a collaborative effort for low- to moderate-income individuals and families, giving them access to mainstream financial systems and products and increasing their financial management knowledge and skills. Her program reaches more than 20,000 people annually, she said. DeJear has been endorsed by state Sen. Janet Petersen and state Rep. Ako Abdul Samad, both of Des Moines; former congressional candidate Kim Weaver; and Iowa Women for Progressive Change. So far, only one other Democrat Jim Mowrer, of Des Moines has filed to run for Secretary of State. Republican Paul Pate is expected to seek re-election. By Jagdeesh Mann (@jagdeeshmann), Special to The Post Nearly 70 years since South Asians won the right to vote in Canada, Jagmeet Singh has become the first non-white leader of one of the countrys major political parties. Media coverage of Singhs historic victory has ranged from admiration of the new leaders alpha-male swagger to questions of whether he will hinder his partys appeal at the Quebec polls. While most stories have understandably commented on the visible symbols of his Sikh faith, a few have taken an oddly suspicious tone of whether keeping a turban and beard is a gateway to misplaced loyalties in Singhs case that being in supporting Sikh separatists. Ironically, the one media outlet that seemed to fumble over itself to roll out this unwelcome mat was none other than Canadas public broadcaster, the traditionally left-leaning CBC. In an aggressive Fox-style interview on Power & Politics, veteran journalist Terry Milewski interviewed Singh for his first appearance on the station since winning the NDP leadership. He tossed Singh a few softball questions about his leadership plans before cutting incongruently into a question that rhetorically implied a connection between Singh and the Air India bombing from three decades ago: Does Singh condemn Sikhs who venerate Talwinder Parmar, the man considered to be the architect of the bombing of Flight 182 in 1985? The broadside seemed to take Singh by surprise. He deflected while the CBC host kept doggedly pressing him. Eventually the awkwardly un-Canadian exchange ended in a stalemate. The post-mortem discussion on social media, however, questioned the fairness of this line of inquiry. Milewskis cross-examination was loaded, first of all, with the assumption that Singh, a Sikh born in Canada on the cusp of the millennial generation, should be studied in the history of Talwinder Parmar, and the intricacies of an Indian separatist movement from 30 years ago. This would be on par with assuming that Tom Mulcair, the previous NDP leader, should know the history of Sinn Fein just because his father was an Irish Catholic immigrant. But even if Singh knows his history of 1980s Sikh separatism, was he being asked to denounce the personal views of other Sikhs who venerate Parmar because Singh himself is a baptized Sikh? Or was he being asked because there are such followers in his political base? Either way, these questions lead to a troubling double standard when compared to CBCs treatment of other politicians, such as the Conservative Partys new leader Andrew Scheer. In an interview earlier this year, Scheer was asked about his views on same-sex marriage and abortion, but at no point was the devout Catholic asked to openly condemn his fellow Catholic congregants who view same-sex marriage as an abomination. Meanwhile, other Canadian politicians with a significant following in the Sikh community have also been spared Milewskis rough treatment. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has never been asked to condemn the portion of his Sikh base who view men like Parmar as martyrs. In the 2015 election, Trudeau benefited mightily from the Sikh vote, delivered to him by organizers from the World Sikh Organization a group that once advocated for the creation of an independent Sikh homeland, on the heels of the Air India bombing. The WSO has also delivered for past Liberal leaders, including Jean Chretien. Media hypocrisy, however, reaches its apex each spring in Surrey, when dozens of federal, provincial and municipal politicians, along with senior representative from the armed forces, RCMP, major banks and other federal bodies congregate at the Khalsa Day Parade on 128th Street. The event, which drew 300,000 attendees this past year, is hosted by Dasmesh Darbar, the largest Sikh temple in B.C. At this temple, a kind of Sikh version of the Yasukuni Shrine, Parmar and other Sikh separatists are lionized through posters and photo memorials. In the years since the Air India bombing, mainstream media has leaned heavily on a false, and self-perpetuated, binary of moderates versus fundamentalists when reporting on news with a Sikh angle. This was partly the consequence of non-diverse newsrooms in the 1980s and 1990s struggling to decipher the inner-workings of a complex community with which many were unfamiliar. So media outlets created go-to contacts, such as temple presidents and politicians, who became the default spokespeople for an entire range of issues, regardless of their familiarity on these topics. These individuals, in turn, used their privileged positions to perpetuate this divide in which moderates became seen as forward-looking secularists who, typically, didnt wear turbans, while fundamentalists were orthodox in religious practice and ardent supporters of an Sikh homeland independent of India. In the three decades since Air India, two generations of Sikhs have grown out of the shadow of the separatist turmoil. These youth tend to speak English and French better than they do Punjabi and they are politically active through social justice causes. Singh is part of this new educated generation which continues to advocate arguably with more passion and idealism than their parents for redress on behalf of the 10,000-plus Sikhs systematically murdered by government supported pogroms in Delhi in 1984. Singh, and other young Canadian Sikhs, however, are equally as impassioned by other Canadian-based causes such as attaining meaningful reconciliation for this countrys Aboriginal communities and protecting the environment. This complexity, however, becomes lost in translation for reporters like Milewski because they still insist on viewing the Sikh community through the tenuous lens of Air India and the separatist struggle that long ago withered on the vine. The community has changed but their narrative framework for reporting has not evolved. Consequently, Singhs social activism and even his belief in self-determination becomes recklessly conflated as support for a man accused of terrorism three decades ago. And it happens on national television, as it did on Power & Politics where CBC got caught judging a book by its cover as Milewski shamelessly tried to pin down Singh as a Sikh fundamentalist. If there was any extremism in Canada that day, it was in the manner by which CBC treated the new leader of the NDP. Singh won his party leadership and the support of the party grassroots because he is a person who embodies the modern nuances of multicultural Canada. Until CBC figures out how to articulate that, Canadas public broadcaster will continue to foster uncomfortable exchanges that do little to bring together Canadians of all backgrounds. Jagdeesh Mann is a media professional and journalist based in Vancouver. His twitter handle is: @jagdeeshmann. DES MOINES -- Although they remain dismayed by Iowas new voter identification law, groups that advocate for voters rights said Monday they are encouraged by tweaks being considered by state officials. The Iowa Secretary of States office on Monday held a public hearing on proposed rules designed to implement the new law, which requires Iowa residents to present personal identification in order to vote. State officials said consideration is being given to changing a proposed rule that voting rights organizations were concerned would make it more difficult for non-government groups to conduct voter registration drives, and another that would allow workers at the ballot to disqualify a prospective voter if his or her signature appears to have changed. I appreciate the publics feedback and everyones comments regarding the rulemaking process for the Electronic Modernization and Integrity Act, Secretary of State Paul Pate said in a statement. Pate did not attend Mondays public hearing. We are actively considering all public comments. It is my goal to make it easy to vote, but hard to cheat. That is what this law accomplishes. Eight voting rights groups signed a petition encouraging the Secretary of States office to make those and other changes to rules for the new law. Speakers representing Iowa chapters of the League of Women Voters, ACLU and NAACP said they are pleased with the potential changes, even though they remain opposed to the overall law, which was passed during the 2017 legislative session and signed into law by former Gov. Terry Branstad. Its good to hear that theyre rethinking the part of the rules that affect non-governmental agencies, said Betty Andrews, president of the Iowa and Nebraska chapter of the NAACP. But certainly the challenge is, still, the fact that we have voter ID, first of all, but also the concerns that it raises among Iowa citizens in terms of can they or can they not vote. And people are still not clear about that. State officials said they expect to complete their work on the new and possibly revised rules by the end of the week. CLEAR LAKE | The Children's Autism Center in Clear Lake along with Our Loving Children will host the third annual sensory-friendly Halloween Party on Friday, Oct. 20. It will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Children's Autism Center on the One Vision -- formerly Opportunity Village -- Clear Lake campus. The event is open to all area children with autism and other special needs, as well as their families. There is no cost to attend. The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2016 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy Statement CHARLES CITY | After several family members and friends testified in his defense Monday, Antoine Wiliams took the stand in Floyd County District Court Tuesday morning. Williams, 36, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of Nathaniel Fleming, 36, last known address Mason City. Police say Fleming was shot just before 10 p.m. near the Clarkview Apartments now known as the Casa Apartments in Charles City on June 30. Steve Kolberdanz, one of two public defenders representing Williams, questioned Williams about his past. Williams, who grew up in Mississippi, said he considers himself the father of a dozen children. Williams testified he has had a rough past, surviving both a shooting and a stabbing over a decade ago. He had been living in Charles City for a little under a year, where he was moving between jobs and trying to get on his feet. When the focus turned to the shooting on June 30, Williams claimed Fleming had previously threatened him and others, and was acting recklessly the entire night. Williams testified he tried to calm Fleming down, but that didn't work. Fleming, who was driving Barbara Fleming's Williams' sister car, abruptly pulled into a Clarkview parking spot near a dumpster, right before the fatal shooting. Williams testified that after trying to calm Fleming down, he saw him reach toward the center console for what appeared to be a gun. He then put up one arm and turned away as he fired multiple shots into the car. Like Edmund Brown, Williams' friend, previous testified, Williams believed he was at risk of being shot. "This MF talking about shooting me," he told jurors Tuesday. Both the defense and prosecution agree that Williams pulled Fleming out of the car after shooting him. Prosecution paints picture surrounding shooting in Charles City homicide case CHARLES CITY | The state of Iowa continued to present its case on Thursday against Antoine W Assistant Iowa Attorney General Coleman McAllister spent most of his cross-examination questioning Williams about his interview with Iowa DCI Special Agent Jon Turbitt on July 7. Williams initially lied before admitting he was involved in the shooting, McAllister said. When McAllister asked Williams to confirm several statements he made to Turbitt that night, Williams said repeatedly he couldn't remember, but followed up with "yes" answers to his descriptions, because the interview was taped. McAllister also asked Williams why he didn't take certain steps after the shooting occurred. "Why didn't you call the police?" he asked Williams. "Because of prior dealings with the police, it wasn't something I felt comfortable doing," he answered. After Williams finished testifying, the defense tried to call another witness who would have testified about Nathaniel Fleming's criminal history. Judge Rustin Davenport denied the witness, however, because prosecutors were not given advance notice of the witness, who he said fell out of the scope of admissible evidence in the case. The defense then rested its case. McAllister told jurors during his closing argument to use "reason, common sense and life experiences" to conclude Williams was guilty. He added that Williams gave different stories to Turbitt about the shooting, and that he was not acting in self-defense when he walked up to Fleming and shot him. "Actions and consequences," McAllister repeated to the jury. "We are all responsible for our actions ... the evidence shows (Williams) made a decision to pull the trigger not once, not twice, but at least four times." Nellie O'Mara, one of two public defenders representing Williams, countered in her closing argument that Williams was not a violent person, and was simply acting in self-defense in the encounter with Fleming, whom he viewed as a "brother." "It was either shoot or be shot," she said in court, echoing what the defense said in opening arguments. Jurors deliberated for about 30 minutes before leaving for the day. They are expected to begin deliberations again Wednesday morning. 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. DeWitt was transported to Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa. A hospital spokesman said he couldn't release Dewitt's condition. The sheriff's office says the incident remains under investigation. No other information is available at this time. The Mason City police and fire departments provided assistance at the scene. SPIEGEL: Prime Minister Theresa May was originally in favor of remaining in the European Union. Does she still have the authority to negotiate a reasonable deal? Starmer: She engages in doublespeak on Brexit because of the deep divisions within her own party. EU countries do not know if what she says is really the shared, supported position of her party and her government. It is impossible to say how long she will survive as prime minister. SPIEGEL: Did you feel sorry for her when everything went wrong during her final speech at the party conference in Manchester? Starmer: I think you'd have to be inhuman to not feel sorry for her. The problem was that the speech symbolized what is happening in her own party. SPIEGEL: Would you agree that since elections last June, Labour is in the best position it could have hoped for? You stand opposed to a dysfunctional government, one which you can torment on a regular basis, without having to prove that you could actually do any better? Starmer: Firstly, we are undoubtedly more united and more confident since the election. We are a party on the way up. By contrast, the government is on the way down. That is why the government is desperate not to have another general election. SPIEGEL: But Labour would face similar divisions on Brexit as soon as it took power. Starmer: I think we are in a far better position. On Brexit, the Conservatives are divided, not only about the tactics but also about the end goal. Some of them deeply and profoundly believe ideologically in a deregulated, low-tax, free-market economy. Others still favor the economic and political model that we operated with in Europe over many decades. The Labour party is united in what we are trying to achieve. SPIEGEL: Are you sure? Starmer: Yes. We want a close partnership with the EU based on the benefits of the single market and the customs union. There are differences in the way we hope to achieve that, I don't deny that. SPIEGEL: In the former Labour heartland of northern England, there are numerous party members who have lost their jobs due to massive structural changes. Many of them blame the EU and foreign workers. On the other hand, numerous young party members grew up in uncertain economic circumstance and see the EU and the freedom of movement as an opportunity. It's difficult to imagine how your party could possibly unite those groups. Starmer: It's true, we can't simply ignore the evidence that a lot of people are disaffected by the way the current system has worked for them. That's why I took the vote to leave very seriously and never tried to belittle it. Labour needs to answer these concerns. That means changing the way we do politics and economics in this country. On the other hand, and of equal concern, it is important to understand the 48 percent who voted to stay in the EU, of which I am one. There are very many individuals who now feel that they lost and that it therefore doesn't matter what they think. What the Labour party is trying to do is come up with a strategy to unite both parts. Of course, this makes life more difficult, but it is the right thing to do politically. SPIEGEL: Still, given the existence of the two groups, it would be very difficult for Labour to govern the country. Starmer: I don't accept the proposition we can't bring the two together. We made offers to both sides in our 2017 manifesto. We want to make the economy fairer for everybody with a new industrial strategy and by investing in different parts of the UK. And we are not following the cynical approach of saying: Young people don't usually vote so we don't have to make any offer to them. But to succeed, we need a progressive future partnership with the EU. It is not easy, but I genuinely think it is possible to do. And I want Labour in power to do it, because the damage that is being done is profound. SPIEGEL: When do you think Labour will get the opportunity to prove that it can do better? Starmer: Obviously, we want an election as soon as possible. Realistically, though, minority governments in Britain tend to cling on for longer than you might think. This government will possibly last for most of the five years. Simply withdrawing from the treaty is not a simple matter, but a Trump refusal to recertify would almost certainly mark the beginning of the end. Furthermore, Congress would then have the possibility of slapping new sanctions on Iran's nuclear program within 60 days - an opening that many Republicans would no doubt seek to take advantage of. That, though, would almost certainly be interpreted by the Iranians as a violation of the treaty, leading to their own withdrawal. Iranian Vice President Ali Akbar Salehi recently threatened that Iran has the ability to resume enriching uranium to the 20-percent level within just five days. From there, it's not terribly far to constructing a bomb. And that is something that Israel would like to prevent at all costs, even militarily if need be. Ben Rhodes, formerly Barack Obama's deputy national security adviser, warned in a September interview with U.S. radio station NPR of a "second nuclear crisis" in the Middle East, one that could leave the U.S. facing the decision "as to whether to allow Iran to go forward with its nuclear program or to start another war in the Middle East." Yet instead of new sanctions, a renegotiation of the deal is likewise a possibility - and that appears to be the plan being pursued by moderates in the Trump administration, a trio made up of the national security adviser, the secretary of state and the secretary of defense, all of whom are in favor of keeping the deal. They are trying to walk the fine line of allowing Trump to symbolically distance himself from the deal while at the same time keeping the agreement alive. The 'Spirit' of the Deal The strategy will be that of portraying Iran's Revolutionary Guard as the villains who are spreading terror and destabilizing the region as a way of pressuring Europe into tightening the treaty and adding requirements. U.S. Congress could even decide to list the Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization. The primary criticism Trump and his hardliner allies level at Iran is that the country is violating the "spirit" of the deal - by testing missiles, for example, or by supporting terror groups like Hamas and Hezbollah and sending fighters into Iraq and Syria to expand its influence in the region. Virtually everybody agrees that such behavior by Iran is extremely problematic, including those who support the nuclear deal with Tehran. But the deal has no "spirit," it is nothing but a sober, extremely technical agreement. And it doesn't focus at all on Iranian foreign policy or even on its missile program - something that Trump and many other Republicans would like to change. Trump and his team would also like to tighten certain clauses in the accord, such as those pertaining to where and how often inspections are carried out. Or the fact that Iran will be able to resume enriching uranium once the treaty expires in 2025, if only within the framework of a nuclear non-proliferation treaty. Iran experts like Ray Takeyh from the independent think tank Council on Foreign Relations, agrees with the Trump administration that the treaty is far from perfect. Takeyh, too, is critical of the fact that the accord automatically expires after 10 years and that Iran is even now allowed to partially enrich uranium, albeit to a low level. Furthermore, Iranian researchers are allowed to continue developing centrifuges, with which they can produced fissile material. But what the Trump administration is planning goes far beyond a few minor adjustments to the nuclear treaty. It marks an attempt to isolate Iran in the region and to stop its expansionary policies and its financing of terrorist organizations. Those are all understandable goals - but there is one thing standing in the way: reality. William Burns, one of the negotiators of the treaty and deputy secretary of state in the Obama administration, wrote recently in the New York Times that in a perfect world, we could delete Iran's knowledge of the nuclear fuel cycle, eliminate its missiles and transform it into a more docile regional power. "But we don't live in an ideal world. Diplomacy requires difficult compromises. And the nuclear deal achieved the best of the available alternatives." A Danger of War The other alternative would be yet another confrontation with Iran. "There is a danger of war. Not right now, but perhaps in the future," says Foad Izadi, a professor of international relations in Tehran, adding that Iran is not taking the threats coming from Washington lightly. "We don't believe that Trump has a problem with Iran, rather he has a problem with what his predecessors have left for him," Izadi says. The Iranians, the professor continues, are primarily concerned by Trump's close relations with Israel and Saudi Arabia and believe that both of them are a negative influence when it comes to Iran. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has consistently said that the Iranians still want to remain in the deal despite the fact that the country's economy has not benefited to the degree expected from the lifting of sanctions. One reason is that it remains difficult to do business with Iran, with the U.S. government continuing to pressure banks to refuse to carry out money transfers to or from Iran. Almost all financial institutions adhere to these informal instructions out of concern that they might otherwise be slapped with painful penalties. The result is that it is almost impossible to find banks willing to finance large projects in Iran, meaning that necessary investments in aging infrastructure have not yet been made. If the Americans were to reimpose sanctions or seek to renegotiate elements of the deal, Tehran would presumably try to isolate Washington by working together with the Europeans, Russia and China. But Iran likely wouldn't accept any limitations to its missile program or on its involvement in the region. At his first press conference following his re-election in spring, Rouhani announced that he would be carrying out additional missile tests. "American officials should know that whenever we need to technically test a missile, we will do so and we will not wait for their permission," he said. Were the U.S. to list the Iranian Revolutionary Guard as a terror organization, it would bring trade relations with Iran to a virtual standstill, says former U.S. diplomat Wendy Sherman, who was the Obama administration's lead negotiator for the Iran nuclear deal. Experts believe that the Revolutionary Guard directly or indirectly controls up to 40 percent of the Iranian economy. As such, Sherman warns against taking this step. "Sanctions on the Revolutionary Guards already exist. We would be setting a far-reaching precedent were we to label a part of a state as a terrorist organization." Domestic Debates in Iran The head of the Revolutionary Guards has threatened that such a step would be met with attacks on U.S. bases in the region. Though the threat is likely little more than aggressive posturing, it serves to demonstrate the potential for conflict. Ultimately, the chances for making significant changes to the deal are thus extremely slim. Indeed, any attempt to reopen elements of the deal could result in the collapse of the entire accord, even if it could be months before that happens. That would strengthen the radicals in Tehran who feed off anti-American animosity and who were against the deal from the beginning. That helps explain why Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Sharif recently told his European counterparts that it was imperative to take into account the domestic political debates in Iran. Were the U.S. to list the Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, he said, it could increase hardliner pressure on the government to such a degree that Rouhani would have no other choice but to withdraw from the nuclear deal. During a debate in Iranian parliament last Wednesday, for example, the government was forced to defend the agreement from vicious attacks. "We went through hell," an Iranian source said in describing the debate. The path forward also depends on the Europeans. An end of the nuclear deal would be particularly painful for Europe given that it is widely seen on the Continent as a showpiece of EU diplomacy. Helga Schmid, general secretary of the European External Action Service, is seen as the architect of the agreement and on the sidelines of the recent UN General Assembly, she led discussions aimed at saving it. Furthermore, German Chancellor Angele Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron have spoken with Trump to argue against withdrawal. German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel has spoken on the phone several times with his U.S. counterpart Rex Tillerson. Last Tuesday, though, Tillerson told Gabriel that he can't do any more than he already has, indicating that the Europeans would have to approach Trump directly. "We will continue to work to keep the U.S. in the agreement," Gabriel says diplomatically. On Monday, EU foreign ministers met in Luxembourg and discussed the Iran deal, among other issues. In the statement released following the meeting, they reaffirmed that "the EU is committed to the full and effective implementation of all parts of the JCPOA," referring to the accord's formal name, Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. European diplomats are also concerned about the effects of a collapsed Iran accord might have on the conflict with North Korea. The Iran deal, after all, is the only blueprint available for how talks with the regime in Pyongyang might be initiated. "The worst thing you can do is try to dismantle it," the EU high representative for foreign affairs, Federica Mogherini, told PBS in an interview last Wednesday. "The message that America would send to the rest of the world is that America cannot be trusted, because a deal that American voted for just two years ago in the UN Security Council, ... a deal that American helped to shape enormously, would be rejected by the same country." By Susanne Koelbl, Juliane von Mittelstaedt, Peter Muller, Christoph Scheuermann and Christoph Schult On July 23, 2013 Ocampo wrote to her saying "I need to understand your views on Colombia. I am going there in September." "Okay," she replied. "I will send you a summary." A few weeks later she forwarded Ocampo a letter from her private email address that she had previously sent to the president of the Colombian Constitutional Court. In the letter, she outlined her legal position regarding the peace negotiations in Colombia. Bensouda's office has issued a statement defending the move, writing: "The letter was already in the public domain as it had evidently been leaked to the media in Colombia." Bensouda May Have Been Influenced The documents in DER SPIEGEL's possession indicate that the ICC's chief prosecutor sought the advice of her predecessor on several occasions and perhaps allowed herself to be influenced by him. Another example: In 2015, Ocampo began working with Yazidis from Iraq. Thousands of members of this religious minority had been persecuted by Islamic State, with many Yazidi women taken captive and raped, while their husbands were murdered. Ocampo declared his willingness to help the Yazidis bring a case before the ICC. In public, he stated that he was not in a position to approach the court directly because of his previous role as chief prosecutor and that his aim was merely to explain the legal procedure to them. Nonetheless, he got in touch with his successor to arrange a meeting between Yazidi activists and Bensouda. "Hi Fatou. Can we talk? I would like to explain to you the Yazidi case and ask you what to do about it," he wrote on September 3, 2015. "Dear Luis, I hope you are well. Of course we can talk. Perhaps Saturday evening will be good for you. You can call me from 8.00 p.m. my time. Have a nice weekend and looking forward to speaking with you," she replied. Documents show that this conversation did in fact take place. Ocampo followed up a few days later, telling Bensouda that the Yazidis' representatives were waiting for a response regarding the hoped-for meeting in The Hague. "Dear Luis, I just discussed the matter this evening," she replied. "I was having some scheduling issues but think I can make it for next week." The meeting between the Yazidi representatives and Bensouda took place on September 24 to discuss a possible ICC investigation into atrocities committed by Islamic State. She had hoped to keep the meeting secret to avoid raising expectations. But Ocampo advised the Yazidis: "We should do the press conference. It is the most important thing." Reuters later reported on the meeting between the chief prosecutor and the Yazidis in The Hague. Emails show that Bensouda was annoyed. 'Some Contact Might Have Occurred' In response to a request for comment from DER SPIEGEL, Bensouda sent a statement last Thursday saying that she has "explicitly asked the previous Prosecutor to refrain from any activities that might be perceived to interfere with the activities of the office, or bring its reputation into disrepute." It was a similar statement to the one issued when the allegations against Ocampo first emerged. But her protestations that she has had no contact with her predecessor since assuming office have vanished. "Some contact might have occurred," she now concedes, though seeks to play it down. Any exchanges she may have had with Ocampo were "only sporadic and exceptionally rare." Really? The documents viewed by DER SPIEGEL contain dozens of emails she wrote to her predecessor. Moreover, it was not until the Ocamapo affair came to light that Bensouda publicly distanced herself from him. When DER SPIEGEL visited the ICC chief prosecutor in The Hague several weeks ago, she had nothing bad to say about him. Asked about his dubious consultancy work with the Libyan oil billionaire Hassan Tatanaki, she described it as "a good thing." Her wall is decorated with photos of different ICC investigative teams. "You see, Luis is here, here also," she pointed out, smiling. It now seems that she too has been enveloped by the Ocampo affair. Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Oct 17. 2017 (SPS) - The Special Session of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of AU Countries began Monday at the headquarters of the African Union in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. To concretize the position of the countries that will represent the continental organization, at the next EU-AU Summit. The Special Session of the African Ministers will address the right for all AU members to participate in the EU-AU summit to be held in the Ivorian capital, Abidjan on 29 and 30 November, as well as a draft for the work of the Summit. In addition, the meeting aims to identify priority projects for both partners in the period 2018-2022, such as youth, migration, sustainable development and issues related to peace and security. It is to be recalled that the Special Session of the Executive Council of the AU will adopt the report prepared by the Committee of Permanent Members, meeting on October 12 and 13 and attended by Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Salek , the delegate minister for Africa, Hamdi Mayara, the ambassador in Ethiopia and the AU and members of the SADR delegation in UA. SPS 125/090/TRA Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Oct 17, 2017 (SPS) - Sahrawi Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohamed Salem Ould Salek urged in Addis Ababa, Morocco to comply with the African Unions Constitutive Act, signed and ratified by Rabat, recalling that this fundamental document gives the right to equal participation of all the AU Member States in all conferences and meetings organized by the Pan-African Organization. With the EU-AU Summit to be held on 29 - 30 November in Ivory Coasts Abidjan, the AU Council which met Monday in an extraordinary session reaffirmed the right of all the 55 Member States of the AU to participate in the 5th EU-AU Summit, following the "dithering" of Ivory Coast, which had not sent an invitation to the Sahrawi Republic (SADR). "Today's meeting was about partnership between the EU and the AU. The 5th Summit was supposed to be held in Abidjan, but the country is under pressure from Morocco and a power from outside Africa," the Sahrawi minister told the Algerian Radio from the headquarters of the AU. "Ivory Coast unfortunately procrastinated and did not send an invitation to the SADR, as it did for the other AU members," he said. At the end of this extraordinary session, the Council of Ministers decided on three things: "to ratify and confirm the decisions taken ... in 2015, concerning the participation of all AU member states on an equal footing in all AU conferences and meetings with other foreign partners. It also decided that any member of the Union which doesnt respect this decision (Articles 4 and 5) is deprived of the right to hosting an AU meeting or a meeting of partnership." The AU Executive Council also mandated the African Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat to pursue talks in order to settle the situation within a period of ten days.SPS 125/090/700 Doug Rozendaal has been flying airplanes for more than four decades, but when he took off from Mason City Airport on Friday it was a first for CLEAR LAKE | At Clear Lake State Park Monday night, dozens of cars filled the western parking lot, and many more sat in the corresponding loop right off of South Shore Court. That was because more than 100 people were jammed into the state park's lodge, waiting to see what the fate of the Sunset Bay dockwhich sits to the northwest of the park's campgroundswould be. The dilemma facing the dock stems from a contract between its late owner, Dale Entner, and the DNR. Because Entner died in August, the contract states the dock must now meet new state regulations, trimming it from its current length of 496 feet to 300. Several local and state residents are opposed to the change, and believe that its economic impact, safety and other factors mean it should stay at the current length. Up to around 40 boat slips could be lost if the dock is trimmed. Multiple notable people were present Monday night: Sen. Amanda Ragan, Rep. Sharon Steckman, DNR Director Chuck Gipp, along with other local business owners and officials. One of those business owners was Brad Barber, co-owner of Cabin Coffee Company. He said Clear Lake is a hot tourism destination, and shortening the dock would negatively impact that and the local economy. "We need to keep our own in this community," he told the DNR and those in attendance. Several times during the meeting, individuals commented that shortening the dock and using other public launching areas would cause traffic issues in those spots. They also noted hundreds of people are on a wait list for dock space. One person, who lives in Minnesota but has a second house in Clear Lake, said she has waited multiple years for a spot to open up, and projects that she could be waiting around another five years until she gets one. The dock also supports multiple businesses, including Jake Kopriva, who owns Lake Time Boat Club and operates five boats on the dock. He told the Globe Gazette he's not sure what will happen to his business if the dock is shortened, but wants the DNR to listen to community concerns. "There were some questions that were asked that weren't answered, so I don't know if they're going to follow up with those people," said Kopriva, 25. "The lake is here for us to enjoy. They're trying to take away access that's been there forever, and I think it strikes a chord with a lot of people." Throughout the meeting, multiple DNR officials answered questions about regulations on the dock, including Randy Schnoebelen, a DNR district supervisor whose jurisdiction includes Clear Lake. Schnoebelen, who's worked for the DNR since 1984, told the Globe Gazette that it's hard to project an economic impact without actual numbers, especially compared to other businesses. "What is the economic impact of losing the Barrel Drive-In, the Dairy Queen, Tinker's Reef?" said Schnoebelen, 57. "All we can say is, there's a lot of economic impact of people coming to the lake ... with not only boating, but the people with all the public access that we have with the open shelters ... and look out and see the lake." He added that although people think the dock acts as a barrier for nearby swimmers and anchored boats near the state park's beach, the swimming area is already buoyed off, and boats cannot enter a zone near the shore. Ultimately, it's unclear what the future of the dock is. Many residents called for a poll or open vote for what to do about it at Monday's meeting, but that never occurred. Schnoebelen said the dock's fate rests in whoever buys it from Tim Entner, Dale's son. The DNR contract also restricts the dock from being transferred between family members. "There's no dock permit that's been submitted yet," he said. "We're not going to comment on something that's been submitted. All we can tell you is, 'Here are what the dock regulations are.'" Ragan, who was one of multiple elected officials at Monday's meeting, told the Globe Gazette she hopes the DNR can reach some kind of compromise with Sunset Bay's new owner, in order to keep the dock longer than the mandated 300 feet. "I think this was good from the standpoint that people got to voice their concerns," said Ragan, 63. "I think it's key that people are heard. That's what frustrates people, when they're not being able to get their input." JOHNSTON Donald Trump is being Donald Trump and, for the most part, Mike Johanns is fine with that. Trump wasnt the first choice for the former GOP Nebraska governor and U.S. senator, but Johanns sees him delivering on some basic Republican principles. If youre a Republican and you have argued for years we need less regulation, less government, Donald Trump is delivering on that, Johanns said Monday. Theres no question about it, he is changing the world in that regard. Trump has endorsed tax plans that make more sense, Johanns said while in Iowa for the World Food Prize Iowa Hunger Summit. Trump is putting people on the federal courts who represent a more conservative view of government less government, more personal responsibility. Johanns, 67, admitted he reads all the flutter about what the president posted on social media and all I can say is thats Donald Trump. What Johanns doesnt know is whether voters who elected Trump in an election he believes was all about disruption will be looking for more of the same in 2020, or for something else. Drain the swamp is an appealing populist message, but Johanns thinks voters are going to want more. I really do believe that what people are looking for is Why cant you just go back to Washington and make it work? said Johanns, an Osage native who was George W. Bushs secretary of agriculture. If theres a problem with Social Security and its funding, over the long-term, is going to run out of money, why arent we fixing it? If Medicare is supposed to run out of money, why arent we dealing with that? If we have a tax system thats not working effectively and encouraging job creation and economic growth, why dont we see a tax bill thats being debated? he said. If voters dont see those issues being addressed, they may look for a candidate who can demonstrate a grasp of governing and show results, Johanns speculated. You could have people saying, I want someone who can grab ahold of this government and knows how to run it, who can make it work for me, he said. Hes quick to add that doesnt mean an incumbent such as Trump cant make the case that they were there and fought the right battles to make a very complex, enormous organization that is the federal government work better. However, Johanns, who backed former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush for the 2016 GOP nomination, stopped short of endorsing a second term for Trump. You know Im not political anymore, he said. Johanns currently is on the boards of Deere & Co., Burlington Capitol Group and the Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska. ALLIANCE Alliance Police are investigating the shooting death of a dog in that community. According to a press release from Alliance Chief John Kiss, police responded to an area in the 1400 block of West Sixth Street on Oct. 12, at about 9:15 p.m., in reference to an injured animal. Kiss said it was determined that the animal was a gray, blue nose pitbull with a white patch on its chest that belonged to residents Marco and Alex Gonzales. A witness looked at the dog, named Chevy, and told police she observed several holes in its chest that appeared to be bullet holes. Officers did find blood where the dogs remains had been. Kiss said police are containing an investigation into the crimes of animal abuse and shooting a firearm within city limits. Anyone with information in the case is asked to contact the police department at 308-762-4955, or e-mail at jkiss@bbcpublicsafety.us. The Scotts Bluff County Commissioners meeting on Oct. 16 yielded confusion amongst residents as well as the commissioners. Director of Building and Zoning Bill Mabin presented two items in the commissioners meeting. The first item was a zoning change for an agricultural area to become a rural residential area. The second item was a preliminary plat for the Alderson Subdivision. Afterward, Mabin brought forth information regarding the amendments to the Scotts Bluff County Comprehensive Zoning Plan to add an energy element. Mabin said there are three components to the amendment that the State of Nebraska mandated. The first component is to ID energy use by sector. Mabin started with residential, saying that 62 percent of Scotts Bluff County residents use natural gas for home heating, 26 percent use electricity and roughly 8 percent use propane, according to a study done between 2011-15. Scotts Bluff County is above trend in almost every category, which Mabin said amazed him. The commercial energy sector increased energy use by 8 percent in the 20 years from 1995 to 2015, though it did decrease about 2 percent from 2014-15, said Mabin. Unlike housing, commercial use is generally lighting and heating. Mabin also said the commercial sector did have an increase in renewable energy of about 14 percent in 2014 and 2015. Mabin said the industrial sector increased 112 percent in the 20-year timeframe of 1995-2015. Forty-two percent of Nebraskas energy consumption was in the industrial sector in 2014 even with a 14 percent decrease in 2013. The second component of the amendment is concerned with recognizing the utilization of renewable energy resources. Mabin said wind power is obviously an advantage in western Nebraska. He also said that, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, wind power is capable of meeting 118 times the states current electricity demand. According to the American Wind Energy Association, Nebraska has one of the best wind resources in the United States, Mabin said. He also mentioned that 92 percent of Nebraska has adequate wind speeds for a utility scale wind farm. Aside from wind, Nebraska also has good resources for solar power, especially in the Panhandle. Mabin said Nebraska is ranked 13th among states with solar energy potential. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, the cost of the panels decreased nearly 80 percent from 2009-13 Mabin said, thus making solar power an efficient method of providing electrical needs of single-family residences. A third renewable resource Nebraska has in its hands is hydropower. Mabin talked about how in 2014 Nebraska consumed 11 trillion BTUs, which accounted for only 1 percent of all the renewable energy used. Mabin said there is not a lot of hope for increasing the size of the hydropower scope. The third component of the amendment is to describe energy conservation methods that benefit the community. Mabin said the Nebraska energy plan presented in 2011 offered 14 strategies for meeting the objectives. He said he was going to offer three that he thinks will be popular. Those three are to continue supporting the Nebraska Public Power system, improve municipal wastewater strategies and water quality, and to continue building Nebraskas wind energy through public and private partner relationships. Mabin said there are several grants for wind and solar power that would be available to Nebraska. County Commissioner Mark Masterton questioned whether these amendments were mandatory, to which Mabin said they were. Masterton and the other commissioners said they didnt fully understand the proposed amendments. They stated several times that they wanted to set up a time where the details could be further explained. A concerned citizen at the meeting said he likes the concept of renewable energy, but that more definition of the amendment would be nice. After much discussion, the commissioners voted 2-2 on the amendment, causing it to fail. The amendment will be sent back to the Planning Commission and eventually will be brought back before the Scotts Bluff County Commissioners. A 73-year-old man faces weapons charges after he allegedly threatened a tenant attempting to move out of a home. Irvin Norine appeared Monday in Scotts Bluff County Court on charges of use of a firearm to commit a felony, a Class IC felony, and terroristic threats, a Class IIIA felony. According to an arrest affidavit, deputies were dispatched Sunday to a home on Hilltop Drive in the Bellevue addition, near Terrytown. Police made contact with a woman who said she was in the process of moving her stuff out of a residence when her landlord came to the home, accusing her of stealing things from the residence. The woman said she had problems with the landlord in the past. Witnesses told police that the man had a weapon in his hand. The man allegedly stuck the pistol in the stomach of a man at the residence, accusing him of stealing and threatening to kill him. The man also allegedly pointed the weapon at the mans head, making statements that I can kill all of you and I may just pull the trigger next time. The gun, described as a revolver, was described as being loaded. Deputies made contact with the landlord, who admitted to having taken a weapon to the home and threatening them. The revolver was seized as evidence. In other court activity: Romilia Hernandez, 34, has been charged with assault by a confined person, a Class IIIA felony, in connection with a Sunday incident at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. Hernandez had allegedly called a corrections officer over to a cell and would not allow the officer to close the cell door. The woman allegedly forced her way out of the cell, while fighting with the corrections officer as she attempted to control Hernandez. During the incident, Hernandez allegedly struck the corrections officer in the throat or the face. She also is accused of grabbing a computer and a machine off a desk and throwing them at the corrections officer. Hernandez had been jailed on charges of second-degree trespassing and obstructing a police officer, both misdemeanors, in connection with an incident at a Broadway bank. The woman had been standing in front of the bank and appeared to be under the influence of narcotics. During interactions with police, she kicked a door at the bank, jumped into a strangers vehicle and other activity as police tried to get her to leave the bank. Makella Merrill, 25, has been charged with attempted distribution of a controlled substance, a Class IIIA felony. Merrill, of Mitchell, is accused of attempting to sell a prescription painkiller on Oct. 14. A person who Merrill allegedly attempted to sell painkillers to contacted police, who questioned Merrill, and arrested her. WASHINGTON, D.C. Nebraska representatives voiced concerns Monday about plans by the U.S. Transportation Department to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in Nebraska communities. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) and Representative Adrian Smith (NE-03) led a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao voicing concerns about the departments plan to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in Nebraska communities, the representatives said in a press release Monday. The EAS program is crucial to the continuation of air service to rural Nebraska. Last month, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced plans to end EAS eligibility for Western Nebraska Regional Airport in Scottsbluff and Kearney Regional Airport in Kearney. Essential Air Service helps pay for planes flying in and out of seven Nebraska and four Iowa communities. Critics say Essential Air Service is a waste of money, supporting flights that arent particularly necessary or in some cases even desired often serving areas where few people live and where residents can simply drive to a larger airport. In April, President Donald Trump Trump echoed those criticisms of EAS subsidies in his budget proposal, noting that the nearly 40-year-old program was intended to be temporary transitional support in the wake of the 1978 airline deregulation. EAS flights are not full and have high subsidy costs per passenger, according to the budget proposal. Several EAS-eligible communities are relatively close to major airports, and communities that have EAS could be served by other existing modes of transportation. The loss of those subsidies would hit Scottsbluffs Western Nebraska Regional Airport hard, airport director Darwin Skelton told the Omaha World-Herald in April. It would be devastating, Skelton said. Any of these small communities youve just killed them, because so many businesses rely on airline service. The air service programs elimination is projected to save $175 million in federal appropriations per year. Thats what the taxpayer contributes to the program on top of funding from the collection of overflight fees paid by foreign airlines. Those amounted to $108 million in 2015. Its not the first time EAS, which covers more than 170 airports nationwide, has come under assault. As for the level of usage, Skelton said his own airports 400 boardings a month represent an improvement but still arent where they need to be. The per-passenger subsidy at the airport is $242, according to the most recent data from the Federal Aviation Administration. In the morning, the east playground at the new Morrill Public School Districts Tri Community Preschool is in the sun. In the afternoon, the west playground is in the sun. On Saturday, the Morrill Rotary Club, looking to the future, planted 17 trees around the new facility. MORRILL In the morning, the east playground at the new Morrill Public School Districts Tri Community Preschool is in the sun. In the afternoon, the west playground is in the sun. On Saturday, the Morrill Rotary Club, looking to the future, planted 17 trees around the new facility. These trees will provide shade, Rotary President and Morrill Schools Superintendent Joe Sherwood said. It will take awhile for the new trees to mature and provide a natural canopy the students, but the Rotarians were wanting to help their community. It is awesome that the community can come together to do something that will be long lasting, Rotarian Ryan Bowlin said after finishing planting a red Elm. Bowlin and the clubs 16 other members took up a challenge given by the international president of the Rotarians who challenged each member around the world to plant a tree in 2017. There wasnt a tree on the lot, Rotary member Glenn Miller said. So the club teamed up with the North Platte Valley NRD and the Nebraska Forest Service to add 17 new trees. The new trees are part of the ReTree Nebraska program, Nebraska Forestry Services specialist Amy Seiler said. The goal of the 10-year program, that ran from 2007-17, was to plant 1 million trees across Nebraska. The idea was to increase the planting of high-quality trees in communities across the state, according to Seiler. It's also to increase Nebraskans knowledge and understanding of the value of trees, and the importance of properly planting and caring for them, and helping communities plan to continue the planting of trees. Seiler has helped plant trees with schools and clubs throughout western Nebraska. Though this is the last year for the ReTree program, we will never be done planting trees, Seiler said. On Saturday the Morrill Rotary Club was doing its part. It is a great group, Sherwood said. The club and its members have donated in excess of $20,000 to the Morrill Public School District. With only 17 members, its just amazing," Sherwood said. MASON CITY | A Dutch Railway Museum is about to receive a 160,000-pound gift from Lehigh Cement in Mason City. In 1947, Lehigh purchased an old Whitcomb diesel locomotive, used in World War II, and put it to use at the cement plant for about 60 years. It remained at the plant but has not been in use for more than 10 years, said plant manager Tom O'Neil. The Dutch museum has been searching for years for a Whitcomb locomotive as part of a World War II exhibit. When museum officials discovered Lehigh had one, they made contact and arrangements were made to move it to its new home. Workers using a crane began hoisting the train Tuesday morning in preparation to have it shipped to the Netherlands museum. O'Neill said Lehigh was happy to cooperate with the museum. He said the locomotive had been covered in cement but has received a thorough cleaning and is ready to go. The Whitcomb was built in 1944 in the U.S. and was shipped to France in 1945. The Dutch Railways purchased 20 Whitcombs to start up a railway company after the war but most all of them have been scrapped. A museum spokesman said the locomotive will be fully restored so thousands of tourists can see it. The hope is that someday, tourists will be able to take a ride in it. SCOTTSBLUFF Annie Folck, city planner for the City of Scottsbluff, has announced her departure after almost eight years with the city. Her new position will be a part-time city planner with the City of Gering. With a new son, she said it was a good time to scale back to part-time work while raising a family. Folck, who grew up on the family farm between Morrill and Lyman, holds a degree in civil engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. After graduation, she returned home, starting her career with Scottsbluff working in the storm water department. She also headed up the Greener Nebraska Initiative, working with Scottsbluff on beautification, landscaping and tree planting in Riverside Park, the Scottsbluff Public Library and other areas. That evolved into her position as city planner. More recently, Folck has been a driving force for a number of projects in Scottsbluff, including the development of the 18th Street Downtown Plaza. She was also instrumental in efforts to revitalize the downtown business district as well as the East Overland corridor. Work to revitalize East Overland continued at Mondays Scottsbluff City Council meeting as members approved seven facade improvement projects. The city has committed $153,500 in matching funds to help business owners improve the appearance of the exterior of their property. Council members also approved some amendments to the program that will help make it easier for business owners to apply and use the funds. Its those boards, the planning commission and the downtown business improvement district board, that Folck said shes going to miss. We did a lot of work downtown and I think its in a lot better shape than when I started, she said. A lot of people have been involved over the years to make it happen. Ive been privileged to be a part of that. One the other hand, she said Gering is also doing a lot to refurbish its downtown area, including the building facades and a downtown plaza. In her new position, she will primarily work with Gering City Engineer Paul Snarr. Gerings downtown plaza is located between O and N streets immediately west of the buildings along the west side of 10th Street. The plaza will connect to 10th Street through an existing walkway between Western States Bank and Plummer Insurance. The plaza will include some sort of water feature, a concert stage for live performances, benches, awnings for farmers markets, landscaping and a central grass area with fire pits. The entire project is expected to be completed during the 2018 construction season. Folcks last day with Scottsbluff was Oct. 14. City Manager Nathan Johnson said theyre currently looking at the job description and will advertise for the position in the near future. Right now were looking at how to address concerns from the general public, Johnson said. In doing so, the position might not come back as a city planner, but maybe a planning administrator or a planning director. He said the job description will reflect the overall need of the community and what the city needs to do to fill that position. CHADRON Headquartered in Chadron, the U.S. Forest Service office in Nebraska oversees a wide swath of public lands, as far east as the Bessey Ranger District in the Sandhills, as far west as the Wyoming border with the Oglala National Grasslands and northward to South Dakota. It includes the 52,000 acres of the Pine Ridge Ranger District covering parts of Dawes and Sioux counties, where the native Ponderosa forests of the Pine Ridge were added to the National Forest system in the 1950s. It includes unique Nebraska tourism treasures such as the Soldier Creek Wilderness, the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area, the Hudson-Meng Bone Bed site, Toadstool Geological Park, the Bison Trail and the Red Cloud Campground and other sites. Several sites are popular with horseback riders, including the 7,800-acre Soldier Creek Wilderness and the 6,600-acre Pine Ridge National Recreation Area. Other popular areas wrap around Chadron State Park, tying in with its trail systems and other amenities. They include the Red Cloud Campground to the south, the Outrider Corrals and trailhead to the north and the Black Hills Overlook Trail to the northwest. Lesser-known sites include secluded campgrounds at The Cliffs along Bordeaux Creek and the West Ash campsite in the Pine Ridge. The Roberts Trail Head and Corrals, on the site of a former ranch, serve as a gateway to the Pine Ridge National Recreation area. While some areas are cut with primitive roads, others are closed to motorized travel. Starting at the Spotted Trail trailhead south of Chadron, a rider on horseback could travel close to 40 miles on forest trails and public roads and easements. The variety of terrain and access offers a range of experiences for hikers, campers and hunters. While the trails in the Soldier Creek Wilderness make for a long day of hiking, they can be covered easily on horseback. Anglers will find three types of trout in the wilderness creeks that are uncommon in Nebraska: brook, cutthroat and the hybrid tiger trout. SCOTTBLUFF The Land of Song Coming to the Historic Midwest Theater on Tuesday, Oct. 17. Wales, in the west of Britain, has an ancient tradition of community singing. Towns across Nebraska will join this tradition in honor of those with Welsh connections who have contributed to Nebraska culture for nearly two centuries. The community is invited to join the celebration at the Midwest Theater on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m. Wales is world renowned as the land of song. Recreating the experience across Nebraska is the band, Moch Pryderi and song leader, Rev. Joe Corbin. Moch Pryderi from Fredericksburg, Virginia, is the oldest Welsh band in America. Founded in 1998, their music is firmly rooted in the traditional Celtic music of Wales and Brittany. Stunning vocals compliment traditional Welsh folk songs and ballads along with traditional Welsh reels and jigs played on traditional Welsh instruments, the rare Welsh triple harp, the Welsh pibgorn, Welsh pibaucwd, Welsh crwth, fiddle, highland pipes, whistles and Celtic bouzouki. Corbin, from Reedsburg, Wisconsin, has directed Cymanfaoedd Canu (Welsh song fests) and St. Davids Day festivities, throughout Wisconsin and in Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Ohio. The program will be a mix of group singing and performance. Song lyrics are provided. While everyone is encouraged to give the Welsh language a try, the majority of songs will be sung in English. You do not have to be Welsh to enjoy the song fest. Welsh culture is part of the Celtic tradition, which has universal appeal and resonance. Experiencing it live and in community builds bridges of understanding when we realize just how much we have in common with our neighbors. Not to mention, this music is just plain fun. Tickets are $10 for members and students. The tickets for non-members is $12. Tickets can be purchased by phone 632-4311, in person Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or online at MidwestTheater.com. Nebraskans have some good news to celebrate with the recent release of the State of Nebraska 2016 Annual Traffic Crash Facts Report. There were 1.05 people killed per 100 million vehicle miles traveled last year, according to a report from the Nebraska Department of Transportation. This number is down from 1.22 people in 2015. If you happened to have a loved one among the 218 people killed in an accident in Nebraska this last year, the improvement means little. And the reality is, until we can report zero people killed on Nebraska roads, the number will always be too high. However, the decrease is a positive. In 2016 Nebraska had 22,434 crashes that caused property damage, 12,262 with injuries, 1,315 with serious injuries and 194 fatal crashes that resulted in 218 deaths. Here in western Nebraska, there were four injured and no one killed in the 23 accidents reported in Banner County. Box Butte had one fatality out of the 190 accidents reported. Cheyenne County also had one fatality out of 158 accidents. Kimball County reported one fatality out of 82 accidents, while Morrill County had no fatalities in the 115 accidents reported. In Sioux County there were 14 accidents reported and one fatality. In Scotts Bluff County, nine deaths were reported in 697 accidents. A few interesting facts came out of the report. Sunday was the lowest day of the week for total accidents, but the highest day for fatal crashes. More accidents occur on Friday than any other day of the week. The time of day the most accidents took place was between 3 to 6 p.m., while the most fatal crashes happened between 6 to 9 p.m. Younger drivers, the report said, were involved in more accidents than older drivers. The old saying that men are better drivers does not hold true. Percentage-wise, men were involved in 55.2 percent of the accidents in 2016 compared to 44.8 percent for women. When you look at fatalities, the number jumps big time. Seventy-seven percent of the fatal accidents in 2016 involved male drivers. However, more ladies were more likely to be the victims in an accident. Women made up 55 percent of the people injured or killed in motor vehicle crashes this last year. Accidents tended to increase in the late fall and winter; however, the number of fatal crashes decreased when the weather got bad. Our number of fatalities on Nebraska roadways are down from 2015, but we still have a long way to go. The most telling and best lesson in these numbers, is the fact we have less loss of life on our roads when the weather is bad. It could be because we slow down and pay closer attention knowing the risk is higher. Maybe we should drive like we are driving on a snow covered Nebraska road with the fear of hitting a patch of ice every day winter, spring, summer and fall. Throughout Americas history, trade has been a fundamental driver of our nations growth. Open access to international trade allows a wide variety of goods to freely move from our country to markets around the world. Trade has not only been an important part of growing America, but Nebraska as well. Its been a proven economic good for our state. As my administration has worked to grow our state, my team has partnered with business leaders and ag producers to build on the international partnerships and expand access to overseas markets. International partnerships have been helping grow Nebraska for years. These partnerships led to over $8 billion in goods and services being exported in 2015 alone, which is an increase of 238 percent from a decade earlier. Trade has been particularly good to our states ag producers: Nebraska is ranked as one of the top five states in terms of the value of our agriculture exports, according to the USDA. My administration has been leading trade missions to build on our states previous successes. These trade missions have led to numerous international partnerships that help grow Nebraska. Not only does trade open markets for our ag and other products, it also attracts direct foreign investment, which creates more job opportunities in our state. Direct foreign investment was a big focus on my most recent trade mission to Japan. Japan is Nebraskas No. 1 source of foreign direct investment. Theyre an international partner who has repeatedly shown interest in working with Nebraska because of Nebraskas loyal workforce and great environment for job creation. Through trade missions to Japan, Nebraska has built relationships that have resulted in investments in our energy, manufacturing and agricultural industries. In fact, since 2010, Japanese companies have invested $4.4 billion in our state. About 35 Japanese-owned companies employ 9400 Nebraskans. One example of success that has come from our partnership with Japan is found in Kawasaki. In 1974, Kawasaki was the first Japanese company to invest in Nebraska and one of the first Japanese manufacturing plants in the country. Over the years, Kawasaki has manufactured everything from all-terrain vehicles to train cars in Lincoln. Following my 2015 trade mission to Japan, Kawasaki announced a new investment, which has established their first U.S. aerospace division in Lincoln. This is just one of the many Japanese companies that has created good-paying job opportunities for thousands of Nebraska families. Our relationships with Japan has also helped grow our agricultural industry. Japan recognizes the world-class quality of Nebraska beef and pork. In just the first seven months of 2017, weve already seen a 26 percent increase in beef exports and a 46 percent increase in pork exports over 2016. During our mission to Japan last week, our reputation for high-quality pork recently led the Sagami Restaurant Chain to sign an agreement with Smithfield to purchase Nebraska pork. In addition to trade missions to Japan, I have also led trade missions to China twice, the European Union and Canada over the last 2 years. The trade mission to Canada was the first-ever mission led by a Nebraska governor. These trade missions have all been influential in furthering my administrations vision to grow Nebraska. For example, following the trade mission to the European Union, Novozymes, a Danish company, announced a $36 million expansion at their biofuels plant in Blair. Additionally, the Chinese beef market recently opened up to American beef and the first shipment to China came from Nebraska. Discussing the need to reopen this market was a top priority for me during trade missions I led to China in 2015 and 2016. These are just a few of the many successes that have come from our trade missions. As we continue to work to grow Nebraska, international trade and foreign direct investment will be key to growing our state for many years to come. Our openness to trade is one of the many reasons Nebraska has built a reputation as the best place in the world to live, work and raise a family. If you have any stories about international trade or Japan that you would like to share with my office, you can contact us at pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov or call 402-471-2244. I hope to hear from you soon! Red sumac bushes add splashes of fall color to the hilltop forests, riverine woodlands and native prairie of Neale Woods. But all is not well. The once-active structure that housed a nature center at the preserve suffered from inattention and abandonment, says the executive director of Fontenelle Forest, which owns the woods. What broke my heart, said Merica Whitehall, who visited the grounds when hired last year, was thinking of the significant role Neale Woods has played in so many lives in Omaha how beautiful it is but now underutilized. In recent years, educators havent staffed the nature center, which no longer offers school programs. The old Millard Observatory was dismantled, and telescopes were donated to the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland, Nebraska. Neale Woods, Whitehall noted, once was the site of weddings, fundraisers, an arts festival and more. Recently, Fontenelle Forest volunteers and staffers cleaned up the old nature center both inside and in the surrounding area and she hopes a master-plan process under way will lead to a rebirth at Neale Woods. Partly to call attention to the preserve, this month the public is invited back to the woods with a Blue Barn Theatre play, Walk the Night: Death Marked Love. Its based on Romeo and Juliet, and the ghosts of the star-crossed lovers return. It runs through Oct. 29. In the years ahead, Whitehall hopes many more people will return to Neale Woods. * * * The nonprofit Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods, 16 miles apart and both overlooking the Missouri River, more or less bracket the eastern side of Omaha. On the south, in Bellevue, sits 1,400-acre Fontenelle Forest. Trees grew there among indigenous people long before Lewis and Clark and fur traders, but in 1913 an association was founded to preserve the forest and its trails for the public. On the north, with an entrance a half-mile past Omahas Hummel Park, is 600-acre Neale Woods, homesteaded long ago by the Neale family. Descendants donated the first 120 acres to the public in 1971. Carl Jonas, whose father was a founder of Fontenelle Forest, donated more land at Neale Woods. His estate provided a bequest to purchase even more acres, and his former home became the nature center. In 2012, plans were announced to replace the nature center by 2014 with a state-of-the-art facility for classrooms and displays. Fundraising was unsuccessful, and the plan stalled. We prioritized resources elsewhere, said Ann Christiansen, Fontenelle Forest board president. We minimized the use of that facility and focused on others. Among them were the $2 million-plus Raptor Woodland Refuge, which opened at Fontenelle Forest last year. But the board and staff, she said, havent forgotten or given up on Neale Woods. I definitely feel Neale Woods represents a wonderful opportunity to serve the community in new ways, Christiansen said. Its still in the planning process, and we cant say too much. But she called Neale Woods an incredible asset with amazing landscape and an amazing opportunity for people to enjoy nature. * * * Last spring, Whitehall learned of Walk the Night, presented each fall since 2014 in a different Omaha location and based loosely on Shakespearean plays. In June she invited director Spencer Williams to inspect Neale Woods, and he immediately loved it as a site for this year. The second we walked in, Williams said, I saw it was exactly the kind of diamond in the rough we were looking for. The play is immersive theater, meaning not the usual production where you passively sit back and watch. You might not even sit, instead walking around as you follow actors. The experience starts well before that. If you buy tickets ($25, bluebarn.org), you are emailed a link. On your way, you can download an audio prologue with driving instructions to Neale Woods and a mysterious voice saying you will attend an event at a manor turned into a memorial after tragic events some 100 years ago. Attendees are asked to wear veil-like tulle material as masks, but they arent required. Youll be close to the action, but dont touch the characters and dont speak unless spoken to which sometimes happens, but only if an actor senses a patron is open to it. Its by invitation, Williams said. Part of our experience is direct and intimate interaction with audience members. Williams, who grew up in Omaha and lives in Los Angeles, for the first time directs his mother, veteran actor Lucia Williams. She plays Lady Capulet. Showtimes this weekend and next are 7 p.m. Thursday and Sunday, and 7 and 8:30 Friday and Saturday. Some parts of the play take place inside, and some outside. Though the skyline of downtown Omaha can be seen on the south horizon, the director appreciates that Neale Woods is separate from the city, with no noise pollution or light pollution. * * * Yes, the play is immersive, but Whitehall says the magic of the partnership with the Blue Barn is that attendees also will be immersed in the glorious prairie setting of Neale Woods. The woods, two miles north of the Mormon Bridge, still feature 11 miles of trails. Hikers, birders and others enjoy the area. It was discouraging at first, she said, to have to remove eight inches of dirt and overgrown vegetation from the Carl Jonas memorial site, and to see that his old home the former nature center had sat empty the past few years. Its unknown what the master plan will foresee, or what it would cost. But Omaha is fortunate, she said, to have places where urban dwellers can become nature seekers. Neale Woods is a wonderful part of Omaha history, Whitehall said, and I am just beside myself with happiness to see the possibility of new life for this beautiful place. By MARK EVANS mevans@stegenherald.com Westover and Smith roads, on the far western edge of the county, will get paving priority for 2023. Country commissioners and Scott Schmieder, county road and bridge foreman, decided at last Thursdays commission meeting to go ahead and seal up that corner of the county. That way, graders will not have Romania's Supreme Council for National Defence (CSAT) has approved on Tuesday Romania's participation in the European Union defence-related initiative, the Presidential Administration announced. "The Council has analysed the topic on the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) in defence at European Union level and has approved Romania's participation in this initiative," reads a press release of the Presidential Administration. The Presidential Administration specifies that PESCO will represent an enhanced means of cooperation along the Common Security and Defence Policy dimension, concerning the development of the defence capabilities at European level, providing the opportunity for member states that comply with advanced criteria in the field of military capabilities and wish to take on further commitment, to achieve a mutually structured cooperation. According to the press release, Romania will express its preliminary intention to participate in an initial set of 10 projects, of the ones so far advanced by the member states, conditioned by their acceptance within PESCO and whose subsequent development corresponds to the national priorities regarding the development of military capabilities. Moreover, the Council's members have approved some measures to be taken so as to streamline the endowment of the Romanian Army and the boost of the national defence industry involvement regarding the specific procedure corresponding to the strategic programme of endowment with the 8x8 armoured personnel carrier. "Thus, premises will be laid down for the consolidation and development in our country of several industrial capabilities to produce not only 8x8 armoured personnel carriers and byproducts of this programme, but also to carry out maintenance works for their entire life-cycle," reads the release. The meeting, chaired by President Klaus Iohannis - CSAT's President, is also attended by Prime Minister Mihai Tudose, Defence Minister Mihai Fifor, Internal Affairs Minister Carmen Dan, Foreign Affairs Minister Teodor Melescanu, Economy Minister Gheorghe Simon, Finance Minister Ionut Misa, director of the Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI) Eduard Hellvig, interim director of the Foreign Intelligence Service (SIE) Silviu Predoiu, Chief of Romania's General Staff, Gen. Nicolae Ciuca, presidential advisers Ion Oprisor and Leonard Orban and CSAT Secretary Mihai Somordolea. Agerpres. President Klaus Iohannis signed on Tuesday the decrees appointing in office Paul Stanescu - as Minister of Regional Development, Felix Stroe - at the helm of the Transport Ministry and Marius Nica - as Minister of European Funds. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 19:30 hrs at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace, the Presidential Administration announced. Prime Minister Mihai Tudose sent on Monday to President Klaus Iohannis the three proposals for ministers which on Friday got the nod of approval of the Social Democratic Party's National Executive Committee. Agerpres. It's harvest season and the inclination for farmers is to look down, not up. They look down from their seats in combines at the thousands of rows of corn and beans they're harvesting and carrying away to silos and big piles at collection stations. Although the inclination is to look down, Nebraska Public Power District is urging farmers to look up and around. The safety message is going out because last week, a grain trailer contacted an NPPD powerline. The trailer's tires were damaged, as was the NPPD powerline, but fortunately nobody was injured or killed. According to NPPD's Transmission and Distribution Manager Art Wiese, last week's grain trailer accident was one of several this fall, so farmers need to be careful to put safety first, even in the rush of harvest. NPPD suggests starting each day of harvest with a safety briefing that includes a reminder of all of the electrical lines and poles that drivers of harvest equipment need to avoid. Taller trucks, trailers and combines many of which are significantly wider than in the past multiply the likelihood that accidents might happen. What should equipment operators do if they accidentally run into a powerline and are entangled? NPPD said you're probably safest if you patiently remain inside the equipment. Call for help and stay put until it arrives. If the line is energized, anyone who steps outside could become the path for the electrical current a deadly mistake. If you must, the safe strategy is to jump not step with both feet hitting the ground simultaneously. NPPD advises to jump clear. Do not touch the vehicle and ground at the same time, and continue to shuffle to safety, keeping both feet as close together as possible as you leave the area. While looking up and around for the big machinery, don't overlook the little stuff. Ladders, poles and even tree limbs and ropes can conduct electricity if they're damp or contaminated with dirt. FRANKFURT, Germany German automaker Daimler, maker of Mercedes-Benz cars, is recalling more than a million vehicles worldwide over a wiring defect that could unexpectedly trigger the air bag. Germany's dpa news agency reported Monday that 400,000 of the vehicles were registered in Britain and several hundred thousand in Germany, with other countries to follow. Affected models include certain Mercedes-Benz A-Class, B-Class, C-Class and E-Class models, as well as CLA, GLC, GLK and V-Class. Daimler says faulty wiring in the steering column means that static electricity could build up and set off the air bag when it wasn't needed, dpa reported. The recalls are set to begin in the next several weeks when repair parts became available to ground the steering column and prevent the static buildup. Kobe Steel said it will cooperate with the U.S. Department of Justice after the agency requested documents related to the fake data scandal that risks engulfing Japan's third-biggest steelmaker. Kobe has said some 500 companies worldwide are in a supply chain tainted by admissions that it falsified certifications on the strength and durability of metals going back to 2007, including automotive giants Ford and General Motors and the U.S.'s biggest plane maker, Boeing. The besieged Japanese company said in a statement it can't yet quantify the impact of the crisis on its earnings. The DOJ's involvement means the company is "going to have to go overboard to be cleaner than clean," said Alexander Medd, managing director of Bucephalus Research Partnership in Hong Kong. "This is going to require a complete mental shift and rebuilding of trust." Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has also asked the company for a report on the scandal including causes and remedies. Kobe's global review of its units will probably reveal that data falsification began even longer than 10 years ago, according to a company executive, asking not to be named as the information isn't public. The Nikkei newspaper reported Tuesday that irregularities over quality control at Kobe's plants in Japan date back decades, citing a person it didn't identify. As the steelmaker works to contain the fallout, it has briefed analysts that short-term liquidity isn't an issue as it seeks to generate cash including via asset sales. Kobe Steel is also considering the sale of its real estate unit, the executive said. Jefferies Japan Ltd. analyst Thanh Ha Pham said that, while the company has enough cash and funding to cover short-term needs, it's looking to raise money by lowering working capital and through asset sales, according to a note that followed a briefing with Kobe's management on Monday. Last week saw Kobe's stock collapse 41 percent as investors rushed to punish the latest instance of corporate malfeasance in Japan, following similar misconduct around data at companies such as Mitsubishi Motors Corp. and Asahi Kasei Corp. It has since pared those losses, closing 3.1 percent higher in Tokyo on Tuesday for a two-day gain of 6 percent. Kobe Steel could face losses of as much as 200 billion yen ($1.8 billion) in a worst-case scenario arising from its misconduct, according to Nomura Securities, while Japan Credit Rating Agency has placed the company's A rating on watch for a possible downgrade. Nomura's tally assumes customers would be forced to recall products and then have Kobe assume the cost, and that it will have to pay compensation, including to investors, credit analyst Shintaro Niimura said in a report Monday. The bank estimates that about 30 percent of Kobe's aluminum and copper, two of the metals subject to data falsification, is bought by automakers. Still, with about 700 billion yen in capital, the worst case would only put a dent in Kobe's capital-adequacy ratio, which would fall from 30 percent to 23 percent, according to Niimura. He cautioned that losses could widen if evidence comes to light that the scandal has affected more products than reported so far by Kobe, which on Friday added another nine to the list, including core steel products, to make 16. The units implicated in the crisis make the steel, copper, aluminum and other materials that account for over half the company's revenue. Kobe's property unit, Shinko Real Estate Co., had fixed assets of 89.9 billion yen, according to a March filing. The company is considering a number of sales options for the business, which leases and sells real estate, including a full divestment, according to the executive, although he said the sale isn't linked to the company's wider problems. None of Kobe's customers has so far raised specific safety concerns or recalled products. Jefferies' Pham cited management as saying that customer feedback, including from beverage can producers and railway companies, is that no immediate recalls are required and products involved are not a safety concern. Some of Japan's biggest automakers Toyota, Nissan and Subaru are investigating whether any car parts contain falsified materials from Kobe, according to company spokespeople. Toyota supplier Denso Corp. is also checking its products, while Tokyo Metro Co. and Seibu Railway Co. are investigating if Kobe's aluminum parts are used in their trains. Kobe Steel declined to comment on the details of the analyst meeting on Monday. A spokeswoman said it's investigating past records to determine the cause of the falsifications. The United Way of North Central Iowa helps fulfill unmet needs of north Iowa Citizens across health, education, and income measures. NIVC Services is proud to be a member organization of the United Way. Their support has enabled our organization to expand programs for students with disabilities. Those programs include Project SEARCH NI at Mercy Medical Center, Making the Grade, Career Connections and most recently an after-school transition program. Project SEARCH NI provides a rotation of three internships during one academic school year to students or recent graduates at Mercy Medical Center. Making the Grade is job placement program for high school students with disabilities. Career Connections helps students attending north Iowa Alternative Schools identify career goals, prepare for post-secondary training or employment and get the supports they need to be successful. JobLink Boot Camp is an after-school program that will give high school students with disabilities a combination of classroom and community career development experiences. It will be launched in January 2018. All the programs described not only benefit the participants but our community at large. The majority of these young people will spend their adult lives in North Iowa. We want and need them to be contributing members of our workforce. Employment for people with disabilities goes far beyond enhancing the individuals income and quality of live. It increases state tax revenues, while decreasing dependency on state entitlement programs. I strongly encourage you to be a part of the solutions that United Way of North Central Iowa supports and that our community needs. Give United Way your support and strengthen all of our citizens. Sherry Becker, Mason City ST. LOUIS A man out walking his dog in the Benton Park West neighborhood was shot Monday night. The man was walking the dog in an area behind the 3300 block of Oregon Avenue, north of Cherokee Street just before 10 p.m., police said. Two men approached, and one of them shot the victim, police said. The men then ran off. The victim was in critical but stable condition at a hospital, police said Tuesday. A motive in the shooting wasn't clear. ST. LOUIS More than 30 members of the St. Louis City Democratic Central Committee sent a letter to police and city leaders on Tuesday outlining calls to action in the wake of former police officer Jason Stockley's acquittal. "As elected representatives of the people of St. Louis, we must speak out against the brutality of St. Louis Police Officers that are part of a system that historically has abused black and brown citizens of St. Louis," the letter reads. Among a list of actions sent to Mayor Lyda Krewson, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department interim Chief Lawrence O'Toole, the Board of Aldermen and the St. Louis Police Officers Association, is a plea for the implementation of reforms laid out in the Ferguson report to be "swift and thorough." The central committee is made up of an elected committeeman and woman from each of the city's 28 wards. They aren't always as visible as aldermen or other city officials, but they can help urge and bring about change, said 5th Ward Democratic committeeman Rasheen Aldridge, who along with others on the committee, has been marching with protesters in recent weeks. Aldridge, 8th Ward Democratic committeewoman Annie Rice and 15th Ward Democratic committeewoman Torrey Park were among those crafting the calls. They will be presented at the committee's meeting on Saturday, where supporters hope others will sign on. Stockley, who is white, was found not guilty of first-degree murder for the 2011 shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith, who was black. The verdict in September has spurred protests throughout the city and complaints of heavy-handed tactics being used by law enforcement tasked with containing the unrest. "We're seeing people being harassed for trying to exercise their first amendment rights," Aldridge said. "We're elected officials with a responsibility. We've been talking to constituents and folks in our wards. We decided we needed to do something and lead." Aldridge, who served on the Ferguson Commission, said several of the newer committeemen and committeewomen were inspired to run because of the events of Ferguson. He argues that their efforts, and the efforts of other progressive Democrats recently elected to the Board of Aldermen and state Legislature, will help bring about long-sought criminal justice reforms that never materialized after Michael Brown was shot by a Ferguson police officer in 2014. "As much as people talked about it, the individuals who had the power didn't really want to do it," Aldridge said. "I think now we're just at a critical point where we have the potential to really do something." OAKLAND, Calif. The two Honduran women told nearly identical stories to the immigration courts: Fear for their lives and for the lives of their children drove them to seek asylum in the United States. They were elected in 2013 to the board of the parent-teacher association at their children's school in the Honduran capital, Tegucigalpa. They hoped that mothers working together could oust the violent gangs that plagued the campus. Instead, they became targets. Weeks apart, in the spring of 2014, each of the women was confronted by armed gang members who vowed to kill them and their children if they didnt meet the thugs demands. Unaware of each others plight, both fled with their children, making the dangerous trek across Mexico. Both were taken into custody near Hidalgo, Texas, and ended up finding each other in the same U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Artesia, New Mexico. There, they applied for asylum. Thats when their fates diverged. Sandra Gutierrez joined her husband in California, where her case was heard by a San Francisco immigration court judge. At the end of her asylum hearing in September 2016, she received a one-page form, with an X in the box next to granted. She was free to settle into life with her family in the United States. The other woman, Ana, joined her daughter's father in the southeastern United States, and her case was assigned to an immigration court in Charlotte, N.C. The judge denied her petition and ordered her deported. She is now awaiting a court date after new lawyers got her case reopened. Ana declined to be interviewed for this article. Through her lawyers, she asked that her full name not be used because of her uncertain status and her fear that Honduran gangs could find her. The womens lawyers framed their respective cases with some important differences. However, the women said their reasons for seeking asylum were the same: Gangs had targeted them because of their involvement in the parent-teacher association, and for that, they and their families had been threatened. Taken together, the two cases nearly indistinguishable in their outlines but with opposite outcomes illustrate a troubling fact: An immigrants chance of being allowed to stay in the United States depends largely on who hears the case and where it is heard. Judge Stuart Couch, who heard Anas case in Charlotte, orders immigrants deported 89 percent of the time, according to a Reuters analysis of more than 370,000 cases heard in all 58 U.S. immigration courts over the past 10 years. Judge Dalin Holyoak, who heard Gutierrezs case in San Francisco, orders deportation in 43 percent of cases. In Charlotte, immigrants are ordered deported in 84 percent of cases, more than twice the rate in San Francisco, where 36 percent of cases end in deportation. Couch and Holyoak and their courts are not rare outliers, the analysis found. Variations among judges and courts are broad. Judge Olivia Cassin in New York City allows immigrants to remain in the country in 93 percent of cases she hears. Judge Monique Harris in Houston allows immigrants to stay in just four percent of cases. In Atlanta, 89 percent of cases result in a deportation order. In New York City, 24 percent do. The Reuters analysis used data from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), the U.S. Justice Department unit that oversees immigration courts. The count of deportations included cases in which judges allowed immigrants to leave the country voluntarily. The analysis excluded immigrants who were in detention when their cases were heard because such cases are handled differently. It also excluded cases in which the immigrant did not appear in court, which nearly always end in a deportation order, and cases terminated without a decision or closed at the request of a prosecutor. About half the cases in the analysis were filed by asylum seekers like the two Honduran women. The rest were requests for cancellation of deportation orders or other adjustments to immigration status. 'Gross disparities' Of course, other factors influence outcomes in immigration court. For example, U.S. government policy is more lenient toward people from some countries, less so for others. Also, immigration judges are bound by precedents established in the federal appeals court that covers their location. Immigration courts in California and the Pacific Northwest fall under the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and they rule in favor of immigrants far more often than courts in the 4th Circuit, which includes North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland and Virginia, Reuters found. Even so, the Reuters analysis determined that after controlling for such factors, who hears a case and where it is heard remain reliable predictors of how a case will be decided. An immigrant was still four times as likely to be granted asylum by Holyoak in San Francisco as by Couch in Charlotte. The Reuters analysis also found that an immigration judges particular characteristics and situation can affect outcomes. Men are more likely than women to order deportation, as are judges who have worked as ICE prosecutors. The longer a judge has been serving, the more likely that judge is to grant asylum. The findings underscore what academics and government watchdogs have long complained about U.S. immigration courts: Differences among judges and courts can render the system unfair and even inhumane. It is clearly troubling when you have these kinds of gross disparities, said Karen Musalo, director of the Center for Gender & Refugee Studies at the University of California Hastings School of the Law in San Francisco. These are life or death matters. ... Whether you win or whether you lose shouldnt depend on the roll of the dice of which judge gets your case. EOIR spokeswoman Kathryn Mattingly said the agency does not comment on external analyses of its data. Devin OMalley, a Department of Justice spokesman, challenged the Reuters analysis, citing "numerous conflicting statements, miscalculations, and other data errors," but declined to elaborate further. Immigration judges, appointed by the U.S. attorney general, are not authorized to speak on the record about cases. Dana Marks, president of the National Association of Immigration Judges, said each case is like a 1,000 piece puzzle. While two cases might look identical on the surface, she said, each judge has to weigh the nuances of immigration law to allow someone to stay in the country, which could lead to different outcomes. The question of equality of treatment among judges has gained urgency as the number of cases in immigration court has ballooned to record highs. Under President Barack Obama, the courts began efforts to hire more immigration judges to reduce the systems burgeoning backlog, which now stands at more than 620,000 cases, nearly 100,000 of them added since last December. The administration of President Donald Trump is continuing the effort. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in April that the Justice Department planned to hire more than 50 judges this year and 75 in 2018, which would put the total number of sitting judges above 400. Of the 28 immigration judges Sessions has appointed so far, 16 are former ICE prosecutors. That experience, the Reuters analysis found, makes them 23 percent more likely to order deportation. (Neither Holyoak nor Couch worked as an ICE prosecutor, according to their EOIR biographies.) In a wish list of immigration proposals sent to Congress on Oct. 8, the White House said that lax legal standards had led to the immigration court backlog and that misguided judicial decisions have prevented the removal of numerous criminal aliens, while also rendering those aliens eligible to apply for asylum. Among the proposals offered in exchange for a deal with Congress on the roughly 800,000 dreamers children brought to the country illegally by their parents the Trump administration said it wanted to hire even more immigration judges and 1,000 ICE attorneys, while establishing performance metrics for Immigration Judges. Crisis at the border In 2014, an unprecedented 68,000 parents and children, most of them fleeing violence and lawlessness in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, crossed into the United States from Mexico a refugee crisis that has contributed to the bloated backlog of asylum petitions. Many of the migrants, including Gutierrez and Ana, convinced initial interviewers that they had a credible fear of returning home, the first step in filing an asylum claim. Having come from a country with one of the highest murder rates in the world may have helped establish credible fear. But the two women were already at a disadvantage precisely because they came from Honduras. Country of origin is a big factor in determining who gets to stay in the United States because immigrants from some countries are afforded special protections. For example, courts ruled in favor of Chinese immigrants 75 percent of the time, the Reuters analysis found. A 1996 law expanded the definition of political refugees to include people who are forced to abort a child or undergo sterilization, allowing Chinese women to claim persecution under Beijings coercive birth-control policies. Hondurans enjoy no special considerations. They were allowed to stay in the United States in just 16 percent of cases, the Reuters analysis found. The mass exodus from Central America was under way when Gutierrez and Ana were elected to the board of the parent-teacher association at their childrens school in spring 2013. Two rival gangs the Barrio 18 and the Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13 were operating brazenly in the neighborhood. The year before, according to police records in Honduras, gang members killed a school security guard. Now, they were extorting teachers, selling drugs openly and assaulting or killing anyone who confronted them. The new six-member association board set about trying to improve security at the school, which sits on a dirt road behind a high wall topped with razor wire. Before, no one wanted to say anything about the gangs, Gutierrez said. We were the brave ones. The previous president was a man, so we thought, We are women, they wont do anything to us. The schools principal, who asked that he and the school not be identified out of fear of retaliation, worked with the board. They had early success, he said, when they persuaded police to provide officers to guard the school. But the patrols left after a few weeks, probably intimidated by the gangs. One evening in April 2014, Gutierrez was watching television at home with her two sons, ages 5 and 11, when she heard banging at the front door. Her older boy recognized the three armed and heavily tattooed young men on the stoop as the same ones who had thrown him to the ground earlier that day, telling him, not for the first time, that they wanted him to join their ranks. Now they had come to deliver a message to Gutierrez. They said they knew I was involved in the parents association, Gutierrez said. They said they would kill me and my children. I began to panic and shake, she said. I thought, I have to go now. I am not going to risk my childs life. She quickly packed some backpacks for her and her children and called the only friend she knew who had a car. They drove all night to her friends mothers house in another town. 'No police here' Two months later, according to court documents, Ana was walking her 7-year-old daughter home from school when three members of a rival gang confronted them. Two of them grabbed Ana and her daughter, pinned their wrists behind their backs, and pointed a gun at the childs head. The third pointed a gun at Anas head. They demanded that a payment of more than $5,000 be delivered in 24 hours, a huge sum for a woman who sold tortillas for a living. Ana testified in her asylum hearing that she knew they were gang members because they were dressed in baggy clothing and they also had ugly tattoos all over their bodies and faces. Ana and her daughter ran home and then, fearing the gang would come after them, fled out the back door. We had to jump over a wall, and I hurt my foot doing so, she said in an affidavit. I was desperate and knew that I had to leave my daughters life and mine were in danger. The school principal said he understands why Gutierrez and Ana left Honduras. Because there were no police here, (the gangs) did what they wanted," he said. They said, Were going to kill the members of the parent-teacher association to get them out of here. So the women fled. Gutierrez hid for two months at her friends mothers house outside Tegucigalpa. She joined another woman and, with their children, they set out to cross Mexico. On the journey, they were kidnapped common for Central American migrants and held for a $3,500 ransom. Gutierrez contacted relatives who wired the money. The kidnappers released her and her two sons near the U.S. border. There they piled with another group of migrants into an inflatable raft and crossed the Rio Grande, the border between Mexico and the United States. They landed near Hidalgo, Texas. After walking for an hour and a half, lost and desperate, Gutierrez and her sons sat down in the middle of a dirt road and waited for someone to pass. Two officials in uniforms picked them up. They were eventually transferred to the ICE detention center in Artesia. Ana fled with her daughter the night the gang members threatened them on the street. We bought a bus pass to go to Guatemala and from Guatemala to Mexico and to the U.S.-Mexico border, according to her court testimony. The journey took three weeks. In Mexico, she hired a coyote a smuggler to help them cross into the United States and then turned herself in to Border Patrol agents near Hidalgo. She arrived at the Artesia detention center just weeks after Gutierrez. The other women in the center told me that there was someone else from Honduras who I might know, but I wasnt sure who they were talking about, Gutierrez said. And then one day we went to lunch, and there they were. Gutierrez said that was when she first learned that her fellow parent-teacher association board member had been threatened and had fled from home. Volunteer lawyers helped the women prepare and submit their applications for asylum. In late 2014, the two women were released on bond. Gutierrez moved with her boys to Oakland, California, to join her husband, and petitioned to have her case moved to San Francisco. Ana moved with her daughter to live with her daughters father and petitioned to have her case moved to Charlotte. 'Asylum free zones' Many immigrants released on bond before their cases are heard have no idea that where they settle could make the difference between obtaining legal status and deportation. People familiar with the system are well aware of the difference. When Theodore Murphy, a former ICE prosecutor who now represents immigrants, has a client in a jurisdiction with a high deportation rate but near one with a lower rate, I tell them to move, he said. The Charlotte court that would hear Anas case was one of five jurisdictions labeled asylum free zones by a group of immigrant advocates in written testimony last December before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. The courts in Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas and Atlanta also received the designation. The advocates testified that, while asylum is granted in nearly half of cases nationwide, Charlotte judges granted asylum in just 13 percent of cases in 2015. The Charlotte court was singled out for displaying a particular bias against Central American gang and gender-related asylum claims. Couch is the toughest of Charlottes three immigration judges, according to the Reuters analysis. The Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, a research organization at Syracuse University in New York, first sounded the alarm about disparities in immigration court decisions in 2006. The next year, researchers at Temple University and Georgetown Law School concluded in a study titled Refugee Roulette that in many cases, the most important moment in an asylum case is the instant in which a clerk randomly assigns an application to a particular asylum officer or immigration judge. In 2008, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) found similar disparities in its own study. In response to the rising criticism, the Executive Office for Immigration Review began tracking decisions to identify judges with unusually high or low rates of granting asylum. Mattingly, the EOIR spokeswoman, said the agency held training sessions for judges to address the disparities in 2008 and 2009. It then created a system for the public to file complaints against immigration judges. In a 2016 report, the GAO found that little had changed. EOIR held a two-day training session last year. There is no training on the 2017 calendar. From 2012 to 2016, EOIR received 624 complaints against judges. The 138 complaints lodged in 2016 alone included allegations of bias, as well as concerns about due process and judges conduct within the courtroom. Of the 102 complaints that had been resolved when the data were published, only three resulted in discipline, defined as reprimand or suspension of the judge. Corrective actions such as counseling or training were taken in 39 cases. Close to half the complaints were dismissed. The agency does not identify judges who were the subjects of complaints. Mattingly, the EOIR spokeswoman, said the agency takes seriously any claims of unjustified and significant anomalies in immigration judge decision-making and takes steps to evaluate disparities in immigration adjudications. Day in court Asylum applicants cannot gain legal U.S. residency because they fled their countries in mortal fear of civil strife or rampant crime or a natural disaster. They must convince the court that they have well-founded fears of persecution in their country because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinions or membership in a particular social group. The definition of a particular social group has been subject to conflicting interpretations in the courts, but in general, such a group comprises people who share basic beliefs or traits that cant or shouldnt have to be changed. In the San Francisco court, Gutierrezs lawyers argued that she qualified for asylum because as a leader of the parent-teacher association, she was at risk for her political opinion her stand against gangs and for belonging to a particular social group of Hondurans opposed to gang violence and recruitment in schools. The lawyers also argued that she was part of another particular social group as the family member of someone under threat, since the gangs had terrorized her son in trying to recruit him. Holyoak was convinced. Gutierrez told Reuters that during her final hearing, the judge apologized for asking so many questions about what had been a painful time in her life, explaining that he had needed to establish her credibility. In the Charlotte court, Anas lawyer focused more narrowly on her political opinion, arguing that she was at risk of persecution for her opposition to gangs in her position on the parent-teacher association board. After hearing Anas case, Couch concluded in his written opinion that Ana was not eligible for asylum because she had not demonstrated a well-founded fear of future persecution on account of a statutorily protected ground. He wasnt convinced that she risked persecution in Honduras because of her political opinion. Well-established law recognizes family as a protected social group, according to the Center for Gender & Refugee Studies. Cases that claim opposition to gangs as a protected political opinion, the center says, have generated fewer precedent-setting decisions, making that argument a more difficult one to win in court, though it has prevailed in some cases. Anas response to Couchs extensive questioning played a part in the decision. In immigration court, the asylum seeker is typically the only witness. As a result, credibility is really the key factor. Persecutors dont give affidavits, said Andrew Arthur, a former immigration judge who now works at the Center for Immigration Studies, a nonprofit organization that supports lower levels of immigration. Couch wrote in his opinion that Anas difficulty recounting the names of the women on the association board weighed against her credibility. He noted that she testified about her fears of the gang with a flat affect and little emotion, displaying a poor demeanor that did not support her credibility. The judge also questioned why, in an early interview with an asylum officer, Ana never mentioned threats to the parent-teacher association, and instead said she thought the gangs were targeting her for the money her daughters father was sending from the United States to build a house in Honduras. Anas assertion that she learned from Gutierrez in detention about gang threats to the parent-teacher association was not persuasive, Couch wrote. The evidence indicates this is a case of criminal extortion that the respondent attempts to fashion into an imputed political opinion claim. 'Someone wants to kill them' Gutierrez said Ana told her in one of their occasional phone conversations that she felt intimidated by the intense questioning of the ICE attorney. Gutierrez also said her friend is very forgetful. Its not that she is lying. Its just that she forgets things. Lisa Knox, the lawyer who represented Gutierrez, said judges where she practices tend to give applicants the benefit of the doubt. They have more understanding of trauma survivors and the difficulty they might have in recounting certain details and little discrepancies, she said. Further, Knox said, asylum seekers arent thinking about the finer points of U.S. asylum law when they are fleeing persecution. People show up in our office (and) they have no idea why someone wants to kill them. They just know someone wants to kill them. Anas lawyer appealed her case to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), the first step in the appellate process. This time, her lawyer included arguments about her membership in a particular social group. She lost. In a three-page ruling, one board member said Anas lawyer could not introduce a new argument on appeal and agreed with Couch that Ana hadnt proved a political motive behind the gang members attack. Ana missed the deadline to appeal the BIA decision to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals because her lawyer confused the deadline. She petitioned the BIA through new lawyers to reopen her case and send it back to the immigration court to allow her to present new evidence of her persecution. The new lawyers argued that her previous representation had been ineffective. In July, the BIA granted Ana the right to a rehearing in immigration court, sending her case back to Charlotte, where it could be heard again by Couch. Gutierrez can live and work legally in the United States and will ultimately be able to apply for citizenship. The 43-year-old, who worked as a nurse in Honduras, lives in a small one-bedroom apartment with her husband, her two sons now 15 and 8 her adult daughter and her grandson. She works as an office janitor and is taking English classes. Her boys are in school. The older one, once threatened by gangs in Honduras, likes studying history and math and is learning to play the cello. Ana, 31, has had a baby since arriving in the United States and has been granted work authorization while she awaits a final decision on her case. She and her lawyers declined to share more detailed information about her situation because she remains fearful of the gangs in Honduras. I am very worried about her, Gutierrez said. The situation in our country is getting worse and worse. Last February, a 50-year-old woman and her 29-year-old son who were selling food at the school Gutierrez and Anas children attended were kidnapped from their home and decapitated, according to police records. The head of the son was placed on the body of the mother and the head of the mother was placed on the body of the son. The murders, like more than 93 percent of crimes in Honduras, remain unsolved. Mica Rosenberg reported from Oakland; Reade Levinson and Ryan McNeill from New York. Additional reporting was provided by Gustavo Palencia in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and Kristina Cooke in San Francisco. NEWMARKET, Ontario, Oct. 16, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ANB Canada Inc. (the Corporation) is pleased to announce that it has completed the second and final tranche of a private placement of Class A Shares (the Class A Shares) for aggregate gross proceeds of $230,000. The 1,150,000 Class A Shares were issued for $0.20 per share. A total of $1,830,000 was raised between the two tranches. Finders were paid cash commissions equal to 4% of the gross proceeds of the private placement offering (not including Presidents List orders) and are entitled to finder warrants (the Warrants) to acquire that number of Class A Shares equal to 4% of the number of Class A Shares sold (not including Presidents List orders). The Warrants are exercisable at $0.20 per share at any time up to 24 months following closing and 25,000 Warrants were issued. About the Business The Corporation offers turnkey over-the-counter (OTC) sales and distribution services to manufacturers in the Canadian Food, Drug and Mass marketplace. The Corporation not only markets, sells, warehouses and distributes consumer OTC brands, but also helps manufacturers in a number of other areas including navigating Canadian regulatory guidelines. Further Information For further information, please contact: ANB Canada Inc. 199 Matthew Boyd Crescent Newmarket, Ontario L3X 3C7 Brent Larkan, Chief Executive Officer Telephone: 647-280-8901 Email: blarkan@anbcanada.com Notice on forward-looking statements: This release includes forward-looking statements regarding the Corporation and its business. Such statements are based on the current expectations of management. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting the Corporation, including risks affecting the Corporation, economic factors and the equity markets generally. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and the Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has donated the amount he won from a Turkish game show to the Syrian refugees in the country. Mr Perfectionist was a guest on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" which is a popular trivia game show hosted by Turkish actor Murat Yldrm. During the show, Aamir Khan announced to give 60,000 Turkish lira, which he won in the show, for charity purpose in Turkey. "I am not competing here for myself. I am here to help," the Bollywood actor said. Aamir Kyhan further thanked the Turkish people and termed them as warm-hearted and warm blooded. It is to be mentioned here that Khan is on Turkey tour for the promotion of his film "Secret Superstar," to be released on October 20. He was received by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Presidential Complex while he also met with fans in Istanbul and Ankara. The Telenor Group will release its financial results for the 3rd quarter 2017 on 25 October. Please see below for details about the presentation and conference call for journalists, investors and analysts. When: Wednesday 25 October, 0900 CET / 0800 UK TIME Where: Telenor Expo Visitor Centre, Snaryveien 30, Fornebu The presentation will be held in English. If you are unable to attend the presentation, we offer two other options: 1) Watch the presentation live on the internet The webcast link will be posted on our website and will also be available retrospectively. 2) Listen to the presentation on the phone This service also allows you to ask questions at the Q&A session at the end of the presentation. To participate in the conference call: Dial +47 2350 0296 (local Norway) +46 (0) 8 5664 2793 (local Sweden) +44 (0) 330 336 9411 (local UK) +1 719 325 2202 (local US) Please state confirmation code 5627402, your name and company to the operator For the Q&A session: to queue up for questions please press *1 The Q3 material will be available on our website from 0700 CET / 0600 UK time on 25 October 2017 on this link: https://www.telenor.com/investors/financial-calendar/2017/telenor-groups-results-for-the-3rd-quarter-2017/ Lithuanian English Siauliai, Lithuania, 2017-10-17 07:50 CEST (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Siauliu bankas AB has received the notification of the person, closely associated with the manager, on transaction in securities issued by the bank (attached). LONDON, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Atera, developer of the cloud-based IT automation platform that combines Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), Professional Services Automation (PSA), and remote access into one powerful solution, today announced it has fully integrated Webroots best-in-class SecureAnywhere DNS Protection into its IT management platform. The announcement was made in conjunction with CompTIAs EMEA Member and Partner Conference taking place this week in London, England. Securing data for MSPs is a top priority, said Gil Pekelman, CEO at Atera. Global cyberattacks and ransomware are running rampant, prompting MSPs to find better cybersecurity measures and solutions to protect their customers from an unwanted data breach. With Atera and Webroot, MSPs will be able to stop threats before they reach networks or users with proactive web security. Webroots DNS solution helps prevent internet abuse, protect against threats, and enforce web access and content policies. The solution is fully integrated into Ateras management platform, offering comprehensive, real-time detection and alerting. The layered security approach will help stop malware before it makes its way to the system. Cybersecurity risks are only going to increase, and businesses must be on their front foot when looking to defend themselves, said Charlie Tomeo, vice president of Worldwide Business Sales at Webroot. By using security technologies to defend devices at the most basic level of internet communication, businesses can significantly reduce the risk they run of succumbing to cyberattack. This new partnership with Atera will provide a powerful tool for MSPs looking to effectively and efficiently manage security. In addition to the web security, Atera offers a comprehensive suite of security solutions to protect its customers from ransomware and sophisticated cyber-attacks through Webroot cloud-based security, mail filtering, and online backup. These solutions are uniquely suited to bring MSPs better protection, performance, and increase profitability. Atera is enabling MSPs to improve their business practices through its RMM software, services, and security. Its unmatched technology provides MSPs with the Business Intelligence (BI) they require to succeed with its unique pricing model and a transformative billing dashboard that includes real-time statistics from The Benchmark. Atera and Webroot recently hosted a webinar about their partnership and how it can help MSPs proactively protect their customers data. To listen to the webinar, please click here. Atera offers a fast, easy, and secure way for MSPs to migrate their customers to the platform. To learn more about Atera and try its full Apple Mac support, please call (877) 211-4666, or email info@atera.com. MSPs seeking to efficiently and effectively run their businesses should sign up for a 30-day free trial today via www.atera.com. About Atera Atera is the developer of the cloud-based IT automation platform that combines RMM, PSA, and remote access into one powerful solution. Ateras all-in-one innovative platform offers MSPs improved operational efficiency, seamless integration, end-to-end management, and disruptive pricing. To learn more, visit www.atera.com. Houston TX, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Houston, TX--RadioMedix Inc. a clinical-stage company, announced that it has been selected to present at the prestigious Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) s Investor Forum as part of the National Cancer Institutes Small Business Innovation Research (NCI SBIR) Investor Initiatives, a program offered by NCI SBIR Development Center. Bio Investor Forum is a premier opportunity to engage with life science investors and executives. It is a unique opportunity to present pipeline of RadioMedix products and offer clinical and R&D services to biopharma experts and investors. RadioMedix is focused on addressing unmet needs in the oncology space by designing innovative targeted diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals. "RadioMedix targeted alpha-emitter therapy (TAT) platform is highly promising and will drastically improve the outcome of cancer therapy in the near future. Selection by this prestigious forum is a testament to the relevance of our work in treating patients with cancer", said Dr. Ebrahim S. Delpassand, CEO and Chairman of RadioMedix. "It is a great honor to be selected to present at the 2017-Bio Investor Forum. We are grateful to NCI SBIR Development Center for support of our research program through funding and entrepreneurial resources. Participation in the Investor Initiatives and Bio Investor Forum will accelerate our interaction with investors and other life science companies, said Izabela Tworowska, PhD, CSO of RadioMedix Inc. We are excited to present our theranostic platform and discuss our business model on Bio Investor Forum, she continued. About RadioMedix RadioMedix, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company, based in Houston, Texas, focused on innovative targeted radiopharmaceuticals for diagnosis, monitoring, and therapy of cancer. The company is commercializing positron-emitter labeled radiotracers and therapeutic (alpha and beta-emitter labeled) radiopharmaceuticals for targeted radionuclide therapy of cancer. RadioMedix has established two service facilities for academic and industrial partners: cGMP Manufacturing Suite for human clinical trials and probe development and Molecular Imaging Facility for pre-clinical evaluation of agents. More information at http://www.radiomedix.com. Opening up the Omanawa Falls to public access with the construction of $2.7million of new tracks and stairs is being considered today by the Tauranga City Councils Economic Development and Investment Committee. Public access to the falls is currently denied by the council, which doesnt prevent people from attempting the descent to the pool at the base of the falls, sometimes with disastrous results. In March 2013, a 17-year-old girl fell and received pelvic injuries. In April 2013, a 20-year-old woman received head injuries after falling. A 38-year-old father received serious back and shoulder injuries and his 12-year-old son received serious leg injuries in January 2015. A 36-year-old French tourist had to be rescued after falling 10m off a cliff in October 2016, and in February this year another person was rescued after being injured in a fall. Because of the health and safety risks, the falls are closed to the public. But keeping the public out is an ongoing issue. In spite of the no entry and warning signs, people continue to access the site, often leading to injury. The main access to the bottom of the falls is via steep stairs through a hand-dug tunnel, says Tauranga City Council parks and environment team leader Warren Aitken. This access is blocked by a large steel door. A second access via steps up to where the old transformer was situated, then onto an unformed informal track is also blocked off by a steel fence and signage. An increasing number of people are attempting to access to the bottom of the falls via the informal track ignoring the danger and warning signs. The informal track is very steep and unsafe in many areas and uses existing stair/ladder structures that are in poor condition. Council staff repair and re-secure to restrict access, as access ways are vandalised or created. Todays decision is expected to be a recommendation to Council to support in principle inclusion in year 2019/20 of the 2018-28 Long Term Plan, $2.7m for upgrades to the Omanawa Falls Power Station Reserve. Instead of trying to keep people out, the council is instead going to capitalise on the tourism potential of the spectacular falls, and the historic power station. The recommended project includes: the design and construction of a staircase and landing structure that provides access to the bottom of the falls, a boardwalk and track at the base of the falls, replacement of the power station viewing platform, and land purchase and construction of a car parking area and new toilet facilities plus signage park furniture and an access gate. Once the infrastructure is in place, Omanawa Falls would be transformed from a hazardous escapade into an international quality visitor experience that supports additional tourism ventures and visitor spend in the region, says Warren. A survey undertaken by security at Omanawa Falls over 11 days in January and February 2017 showed the highest day recording was 155 visitors, while the average number of visitors per day was 59. These visitor numbers are particularly significant when it is taken into account that the site is closed, and there is high security fencing and prominent signage installed to keep visitors from an unsafe site, says Warren. Omanawa Falls is becoming increasingly popular due to general word of mouth and the increase in the use of social media such as Facebook and Youtube. Programmes such as The Bachelor have also contributed to the popularity of the area. Tauranga City Council owns and maintains the 5.6ha Omanawa Falls Power Station Reserve which includes Omanawa Falls, a Historic Power Station, access track, and native bush planting. Formal access to the Reserve is provided via an unsealed road leading to a small section of walking track that overlooks the Omanawa Falls, acting as a viewing platform. The famous auction house has been charged with the responsibility of selling the Raj Pink, as it is called, which is named after its anonymous current owner and weighs in at a huge 37.3 carats. It is also certified as fancy intense pink by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), that up until now has accorded the coveted status to only 0.2 per cent diamonds in the world. A representative at the GIA said, For a diamond to display strong, unmodified pink colour like that observed in the Raj Pink is rare, particularly at so considerable a weight. Sothebys chairman David Bennett added, The discovery of any pink diamond is exceptional, but the Raj Pinks remarkable size and intensity of colour places it in the rarefied company of the most important diamonds known. The pink wonder is expected to fetch anything upwards of $30 million and will be displayed in London, Singapore, Hong Kong next week before heading on to Taiwan and New York, and finally making it to Geneva in November. Quebec City, Quebec, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Derby Building Products, manufacturer of the Tando and Novik brands of exterior cladding products, announces Mitch Cox as the Senior Vice President of Sales. In his role, he will oversee the rapid growth and expansion of Tando and Novik brands of shake and stone in the U.S. and Canada. With more than 30 years of sales and sales management experience, Cox was most recently a partner with Principia Consulting, where he was responsible for the development of several category management tools and processes across the building products spectrum. Prior to that, he was Senior Vice President - Global Sales with the Trex Company, a world leader in composite decking. Under his leadership, Trex market share grew from the low 30s to the low 40s and he was integral in creating many of the downstream and internal programs that are the benchmark in the industry and still in use today. Mitch also spent more than 20 years in sales and sales management in the food industry with Kraft General Foods Corporation and Kraft- Nabisco. Mitchs experience, leadership and proven track record in our industry is second to none, said Ralph Bruno, President, Derby Building Products. His ability to develop best-in-class sales organizations through distribution in high growth environments will serve our associates, our customers and the market very well. The Tando and Novik brands of shake and stone feature unrivaled realism, with enhanced color technologies. Novik and Tando product lines feature easy installation, low-maintenance and moisture resistance as ideal exterior options. New Beach House Shake by Tando is indistinguishable from real cedar shake and impervious to moisture, while adding curb appeal and low upkeep to any home. To learn more about TandoShake and TandoStone, visit www.tandobp.com. Learn more about Noviks product lines at www.novik.com. About Tando Tando shake and stone products represent innovations in exterior cladding backed by the most advanced technologies in the industry. TandoShake and TandoStone define new categories by replicating the natural beauty and texture of wood shake and stone, with little to no upkeep. Impervious to moisture and resistant to all types of weather, new Beach House Shake created by Tando is indistinguishable from real cedar, while TandoShakes Signature Stain line offers the rich depth and beauty of stained wood. Perfect for todays mixed material trend in exteriors, all Tando products complement an array of siding types including fiber cement, engineered wood siding, stucco, and vinyl. www.tandobp.com About Novik Novik features NovikShake, NovikStone and related products that completely reinvent luxury for your home. These products replicate the natural beauty and texture of wood and stone materials that are in demand for todays designs. With easy installation, low maintenance and exceptional performance, Novik products are a perfect fit for builders, contractors, facility managers and consumers who take pride in the aesthetic appearance of their home or building. For more information, visit www.novik.com. Attachments: A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ad7e70ee-58f8-4868-a202-225d263cb4ed Attachments: A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5f760506-7fa1-4861-9493-74715d68a492 Syracuse, N.Y. -- A request by the owners of Dey's Plaza in downtown Syracuse for $329,000 in tax breaks to convert vacant office space into apartments received no support Tuesday from the Syracuse Industrial Development Agency. When agency Chairman William Ryan called for a motion to vote on the request, none of the four agency members at the meeting offered one. So the agency took no vote on the request from owners Robert Doucette and Richard deVito. The lack of a vote does not necessarily mean the agency is rejecting the request. It could vote at a future meeting. The Bank of New York Mellon recently closed its operations center in Dey's Plaza in downtown Syracuse, leaving 70,000 square feet of office space vacant. (Rick Moriarty | rmoriarty@syracuse.com) Member M. Catherine Richardson said she was concerned that Dey's Plaza was too heavily mortgaged and wondered if the $4.3 million cost of converting vacant office space into 23 apartments was "throwing good money after bad." She said she wanted more information about the project's financing before voting on the request for tax breaks. "I'm not necessarily against it," she said. Ryan said he was concerned about the loss of such a large amount of office space in the building. "This is a major change in the use of the building," he said. "Converting it from office to residential is a big deal." Bank of New York Mellon, the building's biggest tenant, recently vacated its 70,000 square feet of office space in the building, consolidating its local operations in DeWitt. Doucette and deVito left the meeting before their application came up for a vote. During a public hearing earlier in the meeting, they said they would rather attract a new office tenant to the space vacated by the bank because office space costs less to build than apartments and brings in higher rents. However, they said they have been unable to find an office tenant for the space. "They're just not there," Doucette said. "That's the problem." Converting vacant and underutilized office space into apartments is a major trend downtown. While demand for office space has been weak, apartments fill up as fast as developers can build them and they command relatively high rents. Asked by agency member Stephen Thompson if there was too much housing and not enough office development going on, Doucette said, "I don't think there's too much housing, but I wish there were more offices." The building was built at the southeast corner of South Salina and East Jefferson Street in 1893 for Dey Brothers Department Store. The store, which was named Addis & Dey's in its last years, closed in 1993. The city acquired it in 1994 and converted some of it to office space, but much of the building remained vacant and the project became a financial headache for the city. Doucette and deVito bought it in 2009 for $6.7 million and initially built 45 apartments in the building's vacant space. They added 16 more apartments in 2014. They have applied for an exemption, valued at $240,000, from sales taxes on construction materials and a mortgage recording tax exemption valued at $89,000 to build 23 more apartments and upgrade 28,000 square feet of office space on the second floor for a potential commercial tenant. The agency has assisted Doucette and deVito before. In 2014, it approved $92,160 in exemptions from sales taxes on construction materials for their building of 16 more apartments in the building. Contact Rick Moriarty anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148 Provided photos Neulander's last chance? It's been more than two years since a jury found Dr. Robert Neulander, a prominent obstetrician-gynocologist, guilty of murdering his wife and staging a desperate cover-up to make it appear to be a slip-and-fall in the shower. On Wednesday morning, Neulander could get his last chance to overturn the conviction in his wife's September 2012 death. Leslie Neulander was found in the master suite of their mansion on Shalimar Way in DeWitt. Don't Edit Provided photos New players for appeal Robert Neulander has paid at least six lawyers to represent him since Leslie's death in 2012. The last one of those, Alexandra Shapiro, will appear Wednesday in front of up to five appellate judges in Rochester. Before his arrest, Neulander hired local heavyweight Edward Z. Menkin to defend him. For trial, Menkin was joined by local lawyer Scott Porter, as well as New York City jury consultants Joshua Dubin and David Tejtel. For his appeal to local court, Neulander hired NYC big shot Gerald Shargel. And now, Shapiro will represent him in Rochester appellate court. He is seeking a dismissal of the conviction or, at least a retrial. (Incidentally, Neulander probably won't be there himself: prisoners are not typically transported for appellate court arguments.) Don't Edit David Lassman | The Post-Standard A new prosecutor, too Don't expect to see Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick appear in Rochester. Fitzpatrick, who tried the case with chief assistant Melinda McGunnigle, will turn over the appeal to his top appellate lawyer. Chief ADA James Maxwell is scheduled to make arguments for the prosecution. Don't Edit David Lassman | The Post-Standard A blockbuster trial National attention came to Syracuse in March and April 2015 as Neulander went to trial before County Court Judge Thomas J. Miller. The saga culminated in a guilty verdict in early April to murder and evidence tampering. He was sentenced in July of that year to 20 years to life in prison, five years less than the maximum punishment. Don't Edit NYS DOCS Two years getting ready for appeal Neulander, who gave up his medical license after conviction, has spent the last two years getting ready for his appeal while sitting in a state prison in Elmira. In hundreds of pages of legal arguments and court exhibits, both sides tried to sway the judges to their side. Here are some of those arguments: Don't Edit Don't Edit Stephen D. Cannerelli | The Post-Standard Juror misconduct: Biased by 7,000 texts Neulander juror Johnna Lorraine (pictured) had her cell phone seized by a judge after post-verdict revelations that she'd texted with friends and family about the case. Among those texts: "Make sure he's guilty," from her dad. "I can't believe Jenna (Neulander's daughter) is not a suspect," from a friend. "Is he guilty?" another friend asked. "can't tell," Lorraine replied. Miller, the judge, ruled that Lorraine never betrayed a bias, even though her texting was improper. Not surprisingly, Neulander's legal team disagrees. Don't Edit Stephen D. Cannerelli | The Post-Standard Juror misconduct: Deleted texts Lorraine, the juror, also deleted hundreds -- if not thousands -- of texts before her phone was seized. Neulander's lawyers argued that was proof that she had something to hide -- and that she knew she had engaged in misconduct. The texts were later recovered using cell phone records. Miller ruled that none of the texts -- deleted or otherwise -- showed that Lorraine had a bias. Don't Edit Sarah Moses | smoses@syracuse.com Juror misconduct: Biased by news alerts? An alternate juror, Elisabetta DiTota (pictured, left), accused Lorraine of receiving media alerts about the case and sharing them with fellow jurors. That's against the strict admonitions of the court. But Miller ruled that Lorraine actually only received one media headline -- about jurors being chosen for the trial -- and it came as part of a text from a friend. There were no other alerts found during trial, the judge ruled. Lorraine also was scrutinized for looking at Syracuse.com once during trial. But the judge found that there was no proof she was looking at trial coverage. Lorraine said she was looking up a cheerleading story, though no cheerleading story was posted that day. In any case, the judge noted that Lorraine also told a friend that she wasn't allowed to look at Syracuse.com, suggesting she was trying to follow the rules. Don't Edit Dennis Nett | dnett@syracuse.com Juror misconduct: Talking to alternate juror? Lorraine was also accused of improperly talking to DiTota about ongoing deliberations. She was accused of telling DiTota that the jury was split 50/50. Lorraine denied ever saying that and added that the jury was never split that way. Miller also ruled that divulging that information was not prejudicial to the defendant. (Pictured: Juror Johnna Lorraine (left) has drinks with alternate juror Elisabetta DiTota after the verdict. DiTota later accused Lorraine of misconduct.) Don't Edit Ellen Blalock | The Post-Standard Not enough evidence? Neulander's appellate lawyers have argued that there simply wasn't enough evidence to suggest that Leslie Neulander's death was anything more than a slip-and-fall in the shower. They have called the case "paper thin." Shapiro, Neulander's latest appellate lawyer, argued that medical testimony, the time of death, the blood spatter experts and testimony by Neulander's own daughter all pointed to Neulander's innocence. We'll address those issues later. Don't Edit Don't Edit Provided photo From 'accident' to 'homicide' Neulander's appellate lawyers have, not surprisingly, jumped on Onondaga County Medical Examiner Dr. Robert Stoppacher's 'about face' in changing Leslie Neulander's cause of death from "accidental" to "homicide." At trial, Neulander's defense lawyer sought to show that Stoppacher was improperly pressured by other prosecution witnesses to change his ruling, opening the door for Robert Neulander's arrest. On appeal, Neulander argues that Stoppacher got it right the first time and there wasn't enough evidence to prove it was a homicide. Of course, the prosecution says that Robert Neulander tried to cover up the murder as a slipa-and-fall in the shower, causing the confusion. (Pictured: Dr. Robert Stoppacher) Don't Edit Lauren Long | llong@syracuse.com No murder weapon It took until closing arguments at trial for Fitzpatrick to say that he believed Robert Neulander ultimately struck his wife's head on the marble shower bench to kill her. But that doesn't account for the multiple wounds that the DA says she sustained in her bedroom first. The weapon used there has never been found. Neulander's appellate lawyers suggested that the lack of a weapon shows there wasn't enough proof to convict. But in a 48 Hours television episode on Neulander's case, Fitzpatrick hypothesized that Neulander dumped the weapon into Green Lake. Neulander has said that he went to Green Lakes state park for a jog early in the morning before his wife's death. Don't Edit Court exhibit No blood on bedsheets Assuming Leslie Neulander had been brutally beaten in her bed, why was there no blood on the bedsheets? There was blood on the walls, on items on the night stand and elsewhere, but not on the bed itself. Fitzpatrick argued at trial that Neulander changed the bedsheets. The family's housekeeper testified that the bedsheets after Leslie's death were different than the ones she'd put on the bed earlier. Neulander's lawyers point to this as proof that the DA's theory was wrong -- there was no assault on the bed. But Fitzpatrick, in the 48 Hours episode, suggested that Neulander could have also dumped the bloody bedsheets in Green Lakes. Don't Edit Mike Greenlar | mgreenlar@syracuse.com No motive? Neulander's lawyers say that there was no reason for the doctor to kill his wife. "The prosecution was unable to establish any realistic motive," defense lawyer Alexandra Shapiro wrote. She acknowledged that the Neulanders were sleeping in separate bedrooms and thinking about a trial separation. But they were also seen having a good time at a party the night before. Fitzpatrick has noted that Neulander's once-thriving OB-GYN business had been struggling and a divorce would have meant giving up much of his wealth. It would have also left him alone in a huge house. Not only that, the DA said, but Leslie Neulander was looking at leasing a new apartment (something Neulander's lawyer denied). She also had a friend who she was planning to meet in New York City, according to an interview on NBC Dateline. The doctor had found out about his wife's correspondence with this other man. Don't Edit Ellen Blalock | The Post-Standard Closing arguments: DA reenacted 911 call Neulander's lawyers have found fault with DA William Fitzpatrick's closing arguments at trial. Among the charges was that Fitzpatrick improperly reenacted the frantic 911 call that Jenna Neulander made after finding her mother injured. The DA's office has defended Fitzpatrick's actions, arguing that the jury never believed it was an actual recreation. Fitzpatrick had argued that Jenna could not have done everything she said she did in 13 seconds while a 911 operator was on hold. Don't Edit Don't Edit Ellen Blalock | The Post-Standard Closing arguments: Did Jenna know her dad killed her mom? Neulander's lawyers also blasted the DA for telling the jury that Jenna knew that her dad had killed her mom. In fact, Jenna Neulander's testimony largely backed up her dad's story of finding Leslie Neulander down in the shower. Fitzpatrick improperly inserted his personal view of Jenna's state of mind, the defense lawyers argued. The DA says it was fair game for closing, when a lawyer is allowed to comment on what he believes the evidence shows. Don't Edit Heather Bragman | The Post-Standard Closing arguments: Leslie Neulander's vertigo Neulander's defense at trial suggested that Leslie might have fallen in the shower due to a bout of vertigo. She had been treated for vertigo in the past and had fallen at a wedding reception shortly before her death. But Fitzpatrick argued that the witness account showed that Leslie Neulander hadn't fallen at the wedding reception due to vertigo, but because she lost her balance. Neulander's lawyers said the DA should not have called the theory of vertigo causing her fall as "silly nonsense." Again, they said, the DA was inserting his personal opinions into the trial. Don't Edit YouTube screen grab Closing arguments: Time of death One key aspect of trial was the time of Leslie Neulander's death. Robert Neulander said that she died from a slip and fall in the shower sometime after 7 a.m. Fitzpatrick argued that she was killed much earlier that morning. Neulander's lawyers said that the DA misrepresented testimony when Fitzpatrick told them that an expert had said the death must have happened before 7 a.m. The expert, Dr. Daniel Spitz, ruled that Leslie died between 7 and 7:30 a.m., Neulander's lawyers said. Don't Edit Court exhibit Closing arguments: Crediting DA's own daughter After trial, Fitzpatrick credited his own daughter with a discovery that he used in closing arguments to the jury. That discovery? That a coffee cup, placed by Robert Neulander on his wife's nightstand, didn't appear to have any blood on it, while other items nearby did. But Neulander's lawyers criticized that commentary, saying that there was never any testing done to determine if there was actually any blood on the mug. The DA suggested that the apparently clean coffee mug showed that it had been placed there after the murder. Don't Edit Court exhibit Closing arguments: Pajama bottoms in bathroom Again, Fitzpatrick pointed to pajama bottoms that appeared to cover a pool of blood as proof that the pajamas had been placed there as part of a cover-up attempt. But Neulander's lawyers called the DA out for again suggesting something that they say wasn't proven at trial. Don't Edit Don't Edit Mike Greenlar | mgreenlar@syracuse.com Closing arguments: Inconsistent stories? Fitzpatrick told the jury that Neulander's multiple accounts of exactly what happened the morning of his wife's death were tailored to cover up the murder. As new evidence came to light, Neulander changed his story to fit the circumstances, the DA argued. But Neulander's lawyers say that's a mischaracterization of Neulander's descriptions. The differences, they say, are trivial at best and not evidence that Neulander was changing his story. Don't Edit Dennis Nett | dnett@syracuse.com Closing arguments: Appealing to jurors' sympathies? Neulander's lawyers say the DA improperly told the jurors to "listen to Leslie" to determine who killed her. The verdict must be based on the facts, not an appeal to the jury's sympathies to ensure justice for the victim, Neulander's lawyers wrote. The DA's office responded that Fitzpatrick was simply saying that the victim's own injuries proved that there was a struggle and that she was murdered. Don't Edit Dennis Nett | dnett@syracuse.com Did Nelander's trial lawyer mess up? Neulander's trial lawyer, Edward Z. Menkin, has been criticized by his appellate lawyers for perceived shortcomings during trial. The next series of arguments are part of a litany of mistakes that Neulander's new lawyers say Menkin made. For his part, Menkin has taken being second-guessed as part of the job. "I can only say I am saddened that Dr. Neulander thinks I let him down," Menkin said in an e-mail after the verdict. "Or at least his lawyers think so. I have practiced law long enough to accept that he's got to do what he's got to do." Don't Edit Cover of Lawrence Knapp's report Missing witness: Deputy Knapp Neulander's appellate lawyers have argued that two witnesses -- who were not called by the prosecution -- could have helped the defense case. Both witnesses were originally asked by the DA's office to examine blood spatter in the case. But neither could conclusively say whether Leslie Neulander's death was a homicide or not. One of those witnesses was Onondaga County sheriff's Deputy Lawrence Knapp. The blood spatter expert's report made several observations -- coming from the theory of it being an accidental death -- but ended with more questions than answers. Neulander's appellate lawyers say that Menkin not only didn't call Knapp, but misinterpreted the law in believing that he couldn't force Knapp to testify. The DA's office, on the other hand, is in the reverse position of actually defending Menkin's trial performance in arguing that Neulander was granted "meaningful" representation. Don't Edit Court exhibit Missing witness: Dr. Peter Pizzola Like Knapp, Dr. Peter Pizzola was another blood spatter expert contacted by the DA's office to review Leslie Neulander's death. Pizzola also declined to rule her death a homicide. Neulander's lawyers say that Menkin erred in not calling Pizzola, either. But Pizzola was far from being a slam-dunk for the defense. He's credited with helping rekindle the homicide investigation after the initial ruling of an accidental death. And his report concludes: "Assuming the deceased was the victim of a homicide, she may have been assaulted (on or near the bed)..." That's exactly what the DA said happened. Don't Edit Don't Edit Ellen Blalock | The Post-Standard A rock, a wig and an ax handle? Neulander's appellate lawyers also slammed Menkin for not objecting further to DA's blood spatter expert Karen Green (pictured). Green testified that she tried to recreate a scenario in which Leslie Neulander was assaulted in the bedroom. To do that, she used a rock, a wig and an axe handle. The appellate lawyers called that experiment completely unscientific and faulted Menkin for not getting it thrown out and the judge for allowing the jury to hear about it. Don't Edit Provided photo Was expert's timeframe accurate? The DA's office pointed to brain expert Dr. Jan Leestma to show that Leslie Neulander was killed at least a couple hours before she was found. That would contradict Robert Neulander's story of finding her down after a slip and fall in the shower. (The jury asked during deliberations for Leestma's testimony to be read back, showing their interest.) Leestma testified at trial that the appearance of red neurons in Leslie's brain showed that the death had occurred hours earlier. But Neulander's appellate lawyers pointed out that Leestma's own report said that red neurons start appearing within an hour after death. The lawyers said Menkin should have cornered Leestma on that point. The DA's office said that Menkin's cross-examination was adequate. Don't Edit Douglass Dowty | ddowty@syracuse.com Jenna Neulander's defense of her father Neulander's lawyers point to Jenna Neulander's testimony in her father's defense as proof that her mom's death was accidental. The Neulanders' daughter testified that she helped her dad move her injured mom out of the bathroom after her mom was found down in the shower. DA Fitzpatrick has said that Jenna's testimony was tailored to help her dad. But the DA has stopped short of calling Jenna a liar. Don't Edit 48 Hours screenshot Robert Neulander's own words Of course, what Robert Neulander told to authorities on multiple occasions over several years is key to the case. His lawyers say that minor discrepancies in his statements are trivial, at best, and do not point to him changing his story to cover his tracks. The DA, on the other hand, accused Neulander of carefully tailoring his narratives to fit new information. And, the DA noted, Neulander failed a polygraph test, something not admissible for the jury to hear during trial. Hear Neulander in his own words. Don't Edit Court exhibit Steam function in shower One argument pointed out by the DA's office is the timing behind the Neulanders' steam shower. The doctor told authorities that a steam function was on, making it hard to try to tend to his wife after finding her down in the shower around 8 a.m. She had fallen sometime between 7 and 7:30 a.m., according to the defense theory. But evidence at trial showed that the steam function turns off after 20 minutes. Neulander also gave varied explanations as to why he needed to carry his wife's body from the shower to the bedroom to attempt CPR. The DA has pointed to that as evidence of his cover-up. Don't Edit Don't Edit Court website What to expect A panel of up to five appellate judges will hear Robert Neulander's appeal sometime after 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Appellate Division, Fourth Judicial Department, in Rochester. The oral arguments are broadcast live on the court's website. The appellate court is looking for any problems with the trial process and the law -- it is typically loathe to second-guess a jury's verdict simply based on the facts. However, Neulander's lawyers are asking the court to set aside the verdict due to insufficient evidence to legally support the charges. It could be several months before the court renders its decision. Neulander remains imprisoned. BOYLSTON, N.Y. -- Oswego County sheriff's deputies say a 36-year-old Jefferson County man was drunk this weekend when he drove up to 80 mph and refused to stop for police. Adam M. Beattie, of 22263 county Route 93, Lorraine in Jefferson County, was charged at 12:33 a.m. Saturday with DWI and third-degree fleeing an officer in a motor vehicle, both misdemeanors. Beattie also was charged with reckless driving, failure to obey a police officer, failure to keep right, speeding and driving left of pavement markings. A police report says Beattie's arrest came after deputies received a complaint from someone in the town of Boylston. Beattie is accused of driving his vehicle at speeds ranging from 60 to 80 mph on county routes 15 and 17, the police report said. After his arrest, Beattie was arraigned in Redfield Town Court. He is scheduled to answer the charges Nov. 13 in Boylston Town Court. Another DWI arrest Adam Alexander About three hours after deputies arrested Beattie, they say they charged another suspected drunk driver. Adam J. Alexander, 39, of 120 Forrest Way in Camillus, was charged at 3:21 a.m. Saturday with DWI and speeding following a traffic stop on county Route 2A in the town of Richland. Alexander is scheduled to answer the charges Oct. 23 in Richland Town Court. Instagram video still by Geoff Herbert | gherbert@syracuse.com Don't Edit Photos: '90s fashion at Syracuse bar crawl with 'All That' star Kel Mitchell Who loves orange soda? Kel Mitchell does. Who loves the '90s? Syracuse does. The "All That" and "Kenan & Kel" star came to Armory Square on Saturday for a "Totally '90s" bar crawl hosted by Bar Crawl Nation, featuring non-stop '90s music and colorful fashion. Participants joined in on the fun with tributes to "Space Jam," "Double Dare," Nirvana, fanny packs, L.A. Gear, hammer pants, "Clueless" and more. "Yo Syaracuse (sic) New York was lit today!" Mitchell wrote on Instagram afterwards. "Thanks to everyone that came to party with us!" See photos shared on social media from the "ultimate '90s party," which hit eight different bars in downtown Syracuse on Saturday, Oct. 14: Aw, here it goes. 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 Don't Edit Don't Edit Don't Edit Don't Edit Don't Edit Don't Edit Don't Edit Don't Edit (The video above was produced for the Onondaga County Health Department by Syracuse University students.) SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Onondaga County has the dubious distinction of having some of the state's highest rates of sexually transmitted disease. Here's how Onondaga ranks among the state's 62 counties for rates of infection per 100,000 population for the three most common reportable STDS: Gonorrhea: No 1 in 2014, No. 3 in 2015 Chlamydia: No. 3 in 2015 Syphilis: No. 4 in 2014, No. 11 in 2015. STD rates for 2015 are the most recent available for Onondaga County. "It's not something we are proud of," says Dr. Indu Gupta, the county's health commissioner. She said STDs can be prevented if people use condoms and other safe sex practices. A hidden epidemic Syracuse's high concentration of poverty and substantial population of college students are two reasons STD rates here are off the charts, experts say. STDs are often referred to as a "hidden epidemic" because many of the people infected don't know it. Gonorrhea is most prevalent among young women, particularly African-Americans, in Onondaga County, according to Dr. Elizabeth Asiago-Reddy, medical director of the county Health Department's STD Center. The center provides testing in the basement of the Onondaga County Civic Center. Most women infected with gonorrhea do not have symptoms, while men almost always do. "The fact that a lot of young women are not aware they have this is one of the things that propagates the infections," she said. Syracuse has the nation's highest rate of extreme poverty concentrated among blacks and Hispanics, according to a 2016 study. Many poor young women infected with gonorrhea do not have access to health care or go for regular check-ups, she said. Selling sex for survival Poverty can lead to prostitution, which drives the STD rate, said Sandra Lane, a public health professor at Syracuse University and a research professor at Upstate Medical University who used to work for the county health department. "There is a fair amount of people selling sex for survival, sex for drugs and sex to make money," Lane said. Public health officials worry in particular about untreatable strains of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea on the rise worldwide. No antibiotic-resistant cases have been seen yet in Onondaga County. Gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis all can be cured with antibiotics. But if left undiagnosed and untreated, they can have serious health consequences including infertility, life-threatening ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth and increased risk for HIV transmission. Syracuse teen chlamydia rate exceeds NY rate Chlamydia is the most prevalent STD here and nationwide. It cuts across all socioeconomic groups and is most prevalent in young women in their teens and early 20s. "It's exacerbated by a university population that has a lot of unprotected sex," said Asiago-Reddy. The rate of chlamydia infections among females 10- to 19-years-old in the city of Syracuse was more than double the state rate between 2012 and 2014, according to the state Health Department. Lane said the county STD Center's hours are not convenient for students who account for a large segment of the population infected with STDs. The latest the center is open is 4:30 p.m. Tuesday. It closes at 3:30 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, and 11 a.m. Fridays. "They have to skip school to get treated," she said. Lane would like to see the center open every day until 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. When asked if the STD Center's limited hours create access problems for students and if the center has considered staying open later in the day, Gupta issued a response that did not answer the specific questions. "While members of the community, including students, are always welcome at the Onondaga County Health Department's STD Center, this is one of many local resources available to address sexual health, including their primary healthcare provider or the health clinic on their respective campus," she said. The center diagnoses 13 to 16 percent of STDs in Onondaga County. The rest are identified by individual doctors and other area clinics that offer STD testing. Syphilis rate soars Onondaga County used to see no more than two or three syphilis cases a year. The numbers soared to 29 in 2013, 58 in 2014, then fell slightly to 39 in 2015. Most of the syphilis cases here and across the state involve men who have sex with men. The increase has been blamed in part on the proliferation of smart phone apps that make it easy for men to quickly find sex partners. Syphilis is a bacterial infection. The first sign is usually a painless sore. Many people don't show symptoms. Although it's far less widespread than gonorrhea or chlamydia, syphilis is the most worrisome of the three STDs because it can cause severe health problems, said Asiago-Reddy. Untreated syphilis can cause heart disease, blindness, hearing loss and dementia. A woman with untreated syphilis can transmit the disease to her unborn child, which can result in death or deformity of the child. Gupta said people often get STDs because they engage in risky sexual behavior. "A lot of young people think it's not going to happen to me," she said. Making STD screening part of routine medical care During routine physicals, doctors should ask patients about their sexual histories and discuss the risks of unprotected sex, Gupta said. The county health department recommends that sexually active men and women under 25 be tested annually for gonorrhea and chlamydia. It also recommends men who have sex with men, and heterosexual men and women with multiple sex partners be tested at least annually for syphilis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says doctors should make STD screening and treatment a standard part of medical care, especially for pregnant women and men who have sex with men. In addition to the county STD Center, testing is available at ACR Health at 627 W. Genesee St., Planned Parenthood at 1120 E. Genesee St. and the Syracuse Community Health Center at 819 S. Salina St. Contact James T. Mulder anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-470-2245 When Jacob Rubenstein founded United Radio in 1923, people would walk in with a radio to repair. Ninety-four years later, the company is owned by the founder's grandchildren, Mara Charlamb and her brother Phil Rubenstein, and it has expanded dramatically. United Radio has its headquarters and a repair facility on Enterprise Parkway, DeWitt, and an office and facility in Peachtree City, Ga. Charlamb, vice president, said the company has three divisions and has expanded into maintenance and repair of 21st century products like drones and the batteries for hybrid and electric cars. "Today, our primary customer is the manufacturer," Charlamb said. "They want information. They want to know which part broke, so they can maybe find a new supplier if the part was not reliable. Or change how they assemble the product on the assembly line to avoid that failure. "They can change their manufacturing lines immediately, real time. They can make a change so the product won't fail again." Tell me about your three divisions. In our communications division, we sell, install and maintain 911 systems. We do a lot of work for first responders - police, fire, ambulance. We make a police car a police car with lights, siren, alternating headlights, lights in the trunk - if the trunk is open there are still flashers so they are not rear-ended at night. We install the mounts for the computers, all of the recording equipment that gets wired through the vehicle into the trunk. Then, we have our automotive electronics division. We bring work in to East Syracuse from over 150 countries. That work is for the original equipment manufacturers for Ford, GM, Chrysler. We do work on all their products, some in warranty, some out of warranty, some both. Our biggest customer relationship is not only with GM, Chrysler, Ford, but the tier 1 supplier making the radio or electronics. When somebody calls and they think they're talking with Panasonic for service, they're speaking with us. We have the capability to do that in multiple languages. We work for car dealers worldwide, because they're the ones that the customer is going to. They can call us from California and say I have XYZ vehicle, this age, model, make, and I need a car radio. We'll ship it out, and they'll have it the next day in California. They send us the broken one, and we fix it. In this division, we do things like the dashboard clusters. If your gas gauge breaks or your speedometer breaks, we're able to fix that - basically, any electronics in the vehicle. Everything is controlled by a module or a black box; we repair those modules. The third division is called consumer electronics. In general, we can fix any electronic product in your home. We do that for consumers throughout the U.S. and also a little internationally. We're repairing drones for Yuneec - they're number 2 in sales in the country and growing. They are gobbling up market share, which is good for us. Were you in leadership roles growing up? I guess I don't look back and think of them as big leadership roles. Through our youth group, I was on a regional board. It went from Rutland, Vt., to Poughkeepsie and then went from Albany to Rochester. That was in my junior and senior year in high school. In college (1990 graduate of Boston University, psychology major, business minor), I was a dean's host - I gave tours of the school for the dean's office - and a summer orientation advisor. So I met the incoming freshmen, help them orient to the school, get registered for their classes, understand the curriculum and what they needed. I went to Babson College, just outside of Boston, for my MBA. Who or what were early influences? Mom and Dad (Libby and Arnie Rubenstein). Dad worked full time here in the business. Mom worked part time in the business. They were both very involved in the community and served on boards for various organizations. It wasn't something we talked about or was pointed out. They've always led by example. I try to do the same for my kids. Phil and I discuss it and encourage it with our senior managers, to be involved in the community. Our families and our business are here, and we take that family business very seriously, not just with our own family, but with all of the families of the employees that are with us. We want to make sure the business is here for the next generation and the generation after that. That's important to us. What advice would you give anyone who wants to be an effective leader, especially someone starting a leadership role or aspiring to that kind of responsibility? Start with listening. You don't have to have all the answers. You've got to listen not just with your ears but with your heart. A leader needs to develop emotional intelligence. They call it emotional IQ. It's critical for success. I've seen young people get promoted because they are the most knowledgeable, the best technician, or whatever it is. They stall or fail in leadership because they don't have that emotional IQ of working with people. You can be the smartest, the brightest, the best, the most talented in whatever your chosen field is. If you don't have the ability to work with others and to understand others and to get things done through others, you're never going to be successful as a leader. It's no longer: What can you do? It's: What can you do through others? I see a lot of people get stuck because they haven't worked to develop that skill. How do you develop that skill, that emotional intelligence? There are training programs that have classes in it. The other recommendation is find a mentor within your organization who you see as having that skill and other pieces of leadership skills. Learn and continue to develop your own skills with that person. At the same time, start to be a mentor. You want to find a mentor and then find someone you can mentor to bring up behind you. I think the best learning happens when you're teaching somebody else. You re-educate yourself, so it's a refresher in all of the things that you should be doing. As you impart it, it tends to stick better and hold. People get so worried about their turf and think: If I'm the only one who can do this, it's job security. But you get stuck. If you can't be promoted because no one else can do what you're doing, you're not going to allow yourself to grow. So, train your replacement. Aspiring young leaders should dress for the job they want, not the one they have. There has to be substance and skill behind it, but be seen as whatever that next job is that you want to have. My last advice, is embrace the reality that you don't have all the answers. Nor are you expected to. It's OK to say: I don't know. Can I get back to you on that? When do you need it? Then go find the answer. The problem comes when people try to b.s. their way through. It blows up in their face. It's OK to ask questions. What qualities do you see in good leadership, in a leader you admire? They listen, of course. We talked about that. I also think they have commitment to life-long learning, to knowing that there's always a better version of themselves, a more knowledgeable version of themselves, and that their learning is never done. And that they can always listen more, support their employees more. It's about getting work done through others, not what you can do yourself. We try to train our managers that nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care. You need to have a relationship with your people. You have to have a relationship of trust, that you trust them, that they trust you. They know you care about them. You come in Monday morning: Hey, how was your weekend? And when you ask the question, be sincere in that. Listen to the answer. Right? It wasn't a rhetorical question. If you know their family member was sick or somebody was getting married or had a baby, ask them about it. You have to have that relationship. Then people will want to work for you. They'll be committed. Without that, it all falls apart. If they feel they're just another cog in the wheel, they can go anywhere for that. It's very competitive today, with wages, more so than we've ever seen. People aren't leaving and going down the street, they've leaving New York, so as much as we want to be here for generations to come, New York needs to make it more friendly for business and for individuals. Honesty is key, too. Leaders have to make the tough decisions, not the easy ones. It has to be the right decision for all the right reasons, even though it might be the difficult decision you don't want to make. Usually, when people are wrestling with that, they know what's right. It's just hard to do. Good leaders make decisions for long-term success of the organization, not short term. We see leaders at other organizations making decisions that help their organization short term. Then they move on to the next organization. They're being seen as: I have this success, look how wonderful I am. Someone else comes in behind and then it's a disaster down the road. I think a truly good leader is going to make a decision that's right for the organization long term. Not short term. That's not just about bettering themselves and their own career. It's about a long-term sustainability for the organization. Leaders have to be able to compromise. You can't always get your way. It doesn't always work. They have to work well with teams. It goes back to that EQ. How smart are they in working with other people? Figuring out what makes that person tick and motivates that person and giving it to them. It's not always dollars and cents. Some people love the limelight, they love a microphone, they love to be out front of other people, they want public praise, they want to be seen and recognized. Other people? They'll be horrified if they're called out in a group. It's like a punishment. So, you need to understand your people. You need to understand what's rewarding to them. A good leader gives credit and takes blame. What attributes do you see in poor leaders? Flip all my answers. Poor leaders take credit. They get found out in the end, 99 times out of a hundred times. Poor leaders don't listen. They're completely self-motivated to better themselves and it's all about them. Poor leaders kill their team. They'll have poor productivity, high turnover, or both. Nobody's going to want to work for them. If they can, they'll transfer to a different one. Or they'll just plod along. They won't grow. Long term, it hurts the organization. What should happen when someone takes a risk and makes a good-faith mistake? We have a couple mantras. One is: No surprises. Don't surprise me, and I won't surprise you. So if you know that your best friend's getting married in six months, don't come to me the day before and say: Oh, I'm going to leave. You've got a doctor's appointment? Get it on the schedule and plan your absence. Don't surprise us, and we're not going to surprise you. We're going to be upfront, we're going to be honest with you, we're going to let you know what's going on if it will impact you or the organization. That's one big thing. The other is: If you're not making mistakes, you're not growing. You have to make mistakes to grow. Try not to make million-dollar mistakes - that goes back to no surprises. Keep us in the loop. We have discussions, and you're not out there alone. I tell people all the time: If you're not making a mistake somewhere along the line, you're not growing. I want an employee who has 20 years of experience. I don't want an employee who has one year of experience 20 times. How is that person more valuable to the company today than they were 20 years ago? They're doing the exact same thing they did 20 years ago. "CNY Conversation" features Q&A interviews about leadership, success, and innovation. The conversations are condensed and edited. To suggest a person for a CNY Conversation, contact Stan Linhorst at StanLinhorst@gmail.com. Last week featured Andrew Heagle, Oracle vice president, talking about the importance of being self-aware in effective leadership. SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Amino, a healthcare transparency company, today announced new features for Amino Plus, its offering for employers and employees seeking a better way to find quality, affordable care. Amino Plus will now offer new layers of meaningful information about cost, quality, and relevant benefits, seamlessly blended into a search experience that surfaces the best recommendations for ones network, needs, and personal preferences. This announcement comes as Amino remains committed to helping consumers make smarter decisions in a time when rising healthcare costs and anxieties are leaving Americans in search of more (and better) options to stay healthy, while not breaking the bank. As costs of care rise, employers and consumers are the two groups disproportionately bearing the burden, while also lacking the data points others in the industry take for granted. Thats why we at Amino are focused on giving these groups the information and tools they need to navigate decisions that could save them thousands of dollars. Our continued work to hone in on where to find the best possible care carefully weighing cost, safety, experience, and individual needs means we can begin to bolster Americans ability to become true consumers of healthcare, said David Vivero, CEO of Amino. Amino Plus launched in April of this year to extend the Amino.com experience to support Americas largest category of healthcare payers: employees and employers. In contrast to first-generation transparency solutions and insurance portals, Amino meets people where they are already searching for care Aminos content and recommendations rank in thousands of Google health-related topics and can be found on dozens of leading industry and consumer websites through its partnerships. Amino Plus also provides concierge appointment booking and real-time deductible and out-of-pocket maximum tracking. Unlike other transparency solutions, all these features require little implementation, especially since Amino brings its own database of 1.8 billion insurance claims to the table. With todays announcement, Amino Plus adds: New cost and quality insights Facility Cost Ratings for thousands of hospitals, imaging centers, and urgent care across the country: Amino has created a new and simple way to gauge the relative cost of care at facilities, based on patterns in healthcare pricing identifiable in insurance claims data. Aminos Facility Cost Ratings leverage recognizable dollar signs to allow people to more easily shop for procedures like MRIs and surgeries nearby, knowing which facilities are in-network and relatively affordable. These new ratings will join Aminos cost estimates to offer people multiple layers of information to help them choose the most affordable care possible. Amino has created a new and simple way to gauge the relative cost of care at facilities, based on patterns in healthcare pricing identifiable in insurance claims data. Aminos Facility Cost Ratings leverage recognizable dollar signs to allow people to more easily shop for procedures like MRIs and surgeries nearby, knowing which facilities are in-network and relatively affordable. These new ratings will join Aminos cost estimates to offer people multiple layers of information to help them choose the most affordable care possible. C-section and sepsis rates for relevant care searches: Amino will soon be adding new C-section rates and sepsis rates to thousands of facility profiles, based on AHRQ standards applied to Aminos database. These rates are well-established measures to assess hospital quality, and will join existing safety and outcome-related information, including Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades and physician-level outcomes measures, in the product. A smarter and simpler way to find the best care Smart Match: Amino is updating its data-driven healthcare search to help people quickly identify safe and affordable care nearby. In Amino Plus, the search algorithm now factors in four main filters that assess cost and quality: In-network coverage New Facility Cost Ratings Physician experience with a particular condition Hospital safety Amino is updating its data-driven healthcare search to help people quickly identify safe and affordable care nearby. In Amino Plus, the search algorithm now factors in four main filters that assess cost and quality: Amino automatically surfaces providers that rank highest in these categories, which it designates a Smart Match. More connectivity with benefits, platforms, and partners Contextual Benefits: Employees have access to many types of benefits today, including offerings that connect them to alternative and/or cost-saving forms of care yet might not remember them in the moment. This new feature allows employers to show these benefits, such as telemedicine, directly in the search results for a relevant condition or procedure. Employees have access to many types of benefits today, including offerings that connect them to alternative and/or cost-saving forms of care yet might not remember them in the moment. This new feature allows employers to show these benefits, such as telemedicine, directly in the search results for a relevant condition or procedure. Single Sign-On (SSO): Amino now supports single sign-on capabilities through Okta and OneLogin, with more coming soon. Amino now supports single sign-on capabilities through Okta and OneLogin, with more coming soon. Partnerships: Amino is working with a number of organizations and companies to expand the reach of its transparency offerings. Among Aminos new partnerships: Amino was recently added to the Fidelity Health Marketplace, which provides benefits guidance to small and midsize businesses and their employees. Amino has partnered with EaseCentral to embed transparency solutions in their benefits administration platform, which serves thousands of brokers. Amino is working with a number of organizations and companies to expand the reach of its transparency offerings. Among Aminos new partnerships: For more information about Amino, Amino Plus, and the companys cost and quality offerings, visit partners.amino.com. About Amino: Amino is a healthcare transparency company that connects everyone to better, more affordable care. Amino has compiled an unprecedented database on doctors, facilities, and $1.8 trillion in medical bills, which it uses to personalize care recommendations on Amino.com and through its trusted partner network. Additionally, employers partner with Amino to guide employees to in-network, quality care while helping them manage their out-of-pocket costs. The company is based in San Francisco and is backed by Accel, CRV, Highland Capital Management, Rock Health, and notable individual investors. Contact: Press@amino.com SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- In 2011, Juanita Perez Williams' corporation counsel office hired her ex-husband's law firm in a deal Syracuse city officials later called secretive and illegal. When Perez Williams resigned, the city revoked that deal and refused to pay the firm's bills. The law firm sued to collect, setting off a court fight that laid bare tension between City Hall staff and Perez Williams, now the Democratic candidate for mayor. Perez Williams' office hired the law firm of her ex-husband, Steven Williams, despite a legal opinion warning the city to avoid the conflict of interest. He countered in court papers that the legal opinion, written while the two were still married, didn't apply when his firm was hired -- by then they were divorced. In an interview Monday, Perez Williams said city officials were trying to "create an issue" after she left. She said it was an underling, not her, who made the decision to use her ex-husband's firm, Smith, Sovik, Kendrick & Sugnet, which had been representing the city for decades. And she said the mayor authorized it. She accused Mayor Stephanie Miner's administration of suppressing a document that would prove Perez Williams' office went through the proper channels to retain her ex. City Hall said that document never existed. If it did, it would have surfaced in Williams' lawsuit. Steven Williams Monday called the whole thing a "big nothingburger" and said there was no conflict of interest. "I think there are folks trying to make an issue where there isn't an issue," he said. City Hall lawyers, in court documents, argued Perez Williams acted improperly on the case, trying to hide her role to play down a conflict of interest. According to a sworn statement from Jessica McKee, the attorney who was Steven Williams' main city contact, Perez Williams wanted McKee listed as lead counsel, and Steven Williams and his firm would "work behind the scenes." An email in court documents suggests Perez Williams was overseeing the case. "Steven, I would appreciate it if you spent some time on this," she wrote to Williams. "Based on your bills it appears Suzanne does most of the work. She doesn't impress me nor did I hire her. I hired you." In an interview, Perez Williams said she was looking out for the city's interests. "What I meant to say is the city didn't hire your secretary," Perez Williams said. McKee said in court papers she raised the potential conflict of interest to Perez Williams on three occasions and Perez Williams indicated she had the mayor's approval. McKee said the matter made her so uncomfortable she asked another City Hall lawyer, Mary Anne Doherty, to sit in when she met with Steven Williams. Shortly after Perez Williams resigned, the city severed ties with her ex-husband and refused to pay his firm about $19,000 for work performed. The firm sued to get that money. The city eventually settled for $9,500. The disputed contract and resulting lawsuit, never before detailed publicly, were revealed in court and City Hall documents recently obtained by Syracuse.com. They shed some light on the mysterious exit by Perez Williams from the Miner administration after 18 months. Six years later, the mayor has tepidly endorsed Perez Williams as her successor. But the lawsuit and Perez Williams' response indicate old wounds have not healed. Attorney Steven Williams, of Baldwinsville, is pictured along the shore of Onondaga Lake. Miner hired Perez Williams as corporation counsel at the start of the mayor's first term, Jan. 1, 2010. At the time, Perez Williams was married to Steven Williams, who was a partner with Smith Sovik. Before she took office, Miner hired outside counsel to assess conflicts of interest within her administration. That firm, Mackenzie Hughes, notified Miner that Perez Williams would have a conflict if she hired Smith Sovik, which sometimes represented the city in legal matters. The Mackenzie Hughes memo said neither Perez Williams nor her subordinates should hire Smith Sovik. Doing so would violate the city charter and would result in a voided contract, the return of fees and possible prosecution for a misdemeanor, the memo said. The city charter states: "No person receiving compensation from funds appropriated by the city shall be interested directly or indirectly in any contract to which the city is a party..." In June 2010, six months after that memo, Perez Williams and her husband divorced. According to both, they had a clean break with no alimony or child support payments. The pair have four children together. Steven Williams said he kept custody of their two sons. Their two daughters were adults. "Somebody got it in their head that I had to pay child support or alimony and that was a conflict of interest," Steven Williams said in an interview. "I had no financial obligation at all." On Feb. 1, 2011, Perez Williams' office hired Smith Sovik to represent the city in a lawsuit against Loomis Armored U.S. Loomis had a contract to collect parking meter change for the city. A Loomis employee had siphoned off $2.9 million in change over six years and the city sued Loomis to get that money back. Steven Williams took the case and billed $175 per hour, plus $145 per hour for work done by an associate. He said he was hired by Mary Anne Doherty, a senior assistant corporation counsel. Doherty would argue in court papers that she didn't have the authority to hire outside counsel -- only her boss, Perez Williams, did. In court filings, city officials said Perez Williams never had the mayor's approval to hire Steven Williams. The city charter requires mayoral authorization to hire "special counsel." Current Corporation Counsel Joseph Fahey said that authorization usually comes verbally or by email, and is followed with a signed retainer from the corporation counsel. Perez Williams told Syracuse.com Monday she had written approval from the mayor for her office to use Smith Sovik. "When we decided to utilize Smith Sovik I put a document together informing Miner and [Chief of Staff] Bill Ryan of the case and that there were no conflicts of interest," Perez Williams said. Syracuse.com requested that document from the city. "The document that you requested does not exist," said Fahey. "It has never existed. If such a document had ever existed, it would have been disclosed to Smith Sovik." Steven Williams and an associate worked on the Loomis case for about six months and submitted bills for $18,878. Williams' primary contact at the city was McKee, an assistant corporation counsel. In sworn statements, McKee and Steven Williams contradict each other regarding Perez Williams' involvement with the case. McKee said she met several times with Perez Williams and Steven Williams. In one of those meetings, Perez Williams asked that McKee's name appear as lead counsel and Steven Williams and his firm would "work behind the scenes even though they would actually be doing the work," McKee wrote. "I was not comfortable with [that]," McKee wrote. Steven Williams said in a letter that it was Doherty who suggested McKee's name be used, something he said he resisted. In a deposition, he said Perez Williams was not a part of his meetings at City Hall. "I spoke to her once while I was there after a meeting in a conference room," Williams said. "But she did not participate in any of the meetings." On July 25, 2011, Perez Williams abruptly resigned as corporation counsel. About two weeks later, the new corporation counsel, Doherty, severed ties with Smith Sovik and decided to handle the Loomis case internally. A month later, Doherty wrote to Kevin Huslander, a partner at Smith Sovik, to say the city would not pay its bill. She said Perez Williams illegally hired the firm, never signed a retainer agreement and didn't get approval from the mayor. Former Corporation Counsel Mary Anne Doherty -- now a city court judge -- gives an acceptance speech at Pensebene's Casa Grande after winning the judgeship in 2013. In a letter to Doherty, Steven Williams said Doherty told him the mayor knew he was working for the city. He put a caveat on that claim when asked in a deposition if Doherty told him the mayor had approved. "I could be mistaken on that to be quite frank, but that's my recollection," he said. "I'm not certain and I have a vague recollection of that." Williams' letter said there was no conflict because he and Perez Williams were divorced. He pointed out the city uses the law firm of Hancock & Estabrook, where the mayor's sister is an attorney. In separate interviews, Perez Williams and Williams also noted Miner has hired her husband's son as outside counsel. Terence Mannion billed the city for $112,000 in 2013 to represent the city on Destiny USA-related matters. "We had these same conversations when Miner hired Terry to help her out," said Perez Williams, who was corporation counsel when Mannion was hired. "We always walk through the potential conflicts of interest." Doherty declined comment for this story. So did Miner. Jessica McKee could not be reached. The city settled with Smith Sovik for $9,500 in 2014. The Common Council approved the settlement. In the Loomis case -- the one with the stolen parking meter change -- the city eventually settled for $83,000. After the city refused to pay, Smith Sovik withdrew from other legal cases it was handling for the city -- ones that began before Perez Williams assumed the job. Syracuse, N.Y. -- When the $100 million effort to revitalize Syracuse's Near Westside began 10 years ago, it seemed like a Syracuse University project. "The support that Syracuse University gave us for 10 years - they gave us a lot," said Sheena Solomon. Solomon is with the Near Westside Initiative, the organization created to run the neighborhood renewal effort. But where the nonprofit ended and Syracuse University began had always been hard to discern. Solomon rattled off the list of what the university provided: paid staff, insurance, media help, students, professors. The executive director of the group was paid by SU, and Marilyn Higgins, then SU's vice president of economic development and community engagement, was heavily involved in the projects. The plan was to redevelop the Near Westside, one of the city's poorest neighborhoods, into a place where people wanted to live, work and do business. Syracuse University led and staffed an effort to bring together businesses, nonprofits and neighborhood residents to rebuild and revitalize the area. They created the nonprofit group called the Near Westside Initiative. Over the past decade, the effort has brought nearly $100 million into the Near Westside, turning crumbling factories into modern workspaces, attracting tenants like WCNY, ProLiteracy, and King and King architects. Blighted homes were rebuilt into gems. But now the Near Westside Initiative's future is in limbo. There is no paid executive director. He left for another job. Higgins is also gone; she retired. The nonprofit still uses SU's office space in the Warehouse building on the edge of Armory Square and gets some administrative help, but nothing like before. The group that made great strides under Syracuse University's umbrella is now figuring out if it can go it alone. Solomon, who works as director of neighborhood initiatives at the Gifford Foundation, is the de-facto volunteer leader for the group. When the board chairman resigned in December, she took over temporarily. "We're in transition right now," Solomon said. "It's figuring out what our options are." She said the Near Westside Initiative has to decide whether it can stand alone or whether it needs to be part of a larger organization. There is still work to be done: Performance Park and the theater in the Case Supply building are ready for construction to start soon. Those projects are being funded by $2 million in grant money. The contractors have already been retained to do that work, Solomon said. Then there's the bigger work of figuring out what the Near Westside Initiative's role is without Syracuse University's guiding arm and money. **** The Near Westside became a laboratory for former SU chancellor Nancy Cantor's idea of "scholarship in action." Students and professors would go to work off of University Hill, helping to rebuild a neighborhood, connecting the city at large to the university. The effort enlisted residents, academics, civic leaders and business owners to steer the ship. Aside from the university, The Gifford Foundation, where Solomon works, and Home HeadQuarters were major contributors. When he was interviewed about the effort a year ago, then-executive director Maarten Jacobs said the goal of the NWSI was never-ending. "To holistically revitalize the Near Westside and turn it into a place where people want to do business and spend time," Jacobs said then. He now works at the Allyn Family Foundation as director of community prosperity. He declined comment for this story. Then, Jacobs described the work as rebuilding the Near Westside in small bites, stabilizing one piece of the neighborhood completely before moving on to the next. The first slice was the heart of the Near Westside - bounded by Geddes Street on the west, West Street on the east, West Fayette to the south and Gifford Street to the north. It has a perfect urban design: there is a school and a park in the middle, surrounded by a horseshoe of houses and commercial development on the edges. The Near Westside Initiative worked with residents to choose its priorities. Then it brought in partners to help with projects that ranged from fixing up Skiddy Park so kids had a safe place to play to building new, affordable homes where blighted ones once stood. The budget for 2016 was nearly $1 million, according to federal filings. That does not include the cost of Syracuse University's staff or administrative help. Through its commercial and resident rental properties, the nonprofit initiative brought in about $714,000 for 2015 and 2016. When Jacobs was still with the Near Westside, he spoke of concentrating next on Gifford Street, which is rife with drug dealers and vacant houses on the eastern end. But without Syracuse University involved in such a big way, the future of rebuilding neighborhoods is unclear. When Cantor left, so did her definition of scholarship in action. The current chancellor, Kent Syverud, has made his focus improving the university's research capacity and reputation, as well as improving its financial bottom line. Cantor, now the chancellor at Rutgers University-Newark, declined comment for this story. Syracuse University's current vice president for community engagement, Bea Gonzalez, issued a statement through a university spokesperson. "Syracuse University has been, and continues to be, a leader in supporting the Near Westside Initiative and its neighborhood," Gonzalez said in the statement. "To be clear: the university has not ended its work in the Near Westside." In her statement, she said the work to support the Near Westside continues through her office. She offered these examples: The university continues to rent space for its La Casita Cultural Center in the Lincoln Building, which is owned by the Near Westside Initiative. And she said that the University's Lerner Center for Public Health Promotion is continuing its work with health initiatives on the Near Westside. The New York State Health Foundation, which had previously awarded a grant to the Lerner Center for work on the Near Westside, is working with a different partner in the neighborhood going forward, said David Sandman, the director. He said Lerner faculty are still very much in the mix, and committed to the neighborhood. ***** Solomon said there are no hard feelings toward the university. "I'm absolutely grateful to what SU has done for the Near Westside Initiative," Solomon said. "There's no bashing. I think they've done a lot for the community, but most people don't know it." Many of the buildings that were redeveloped as part of the Near Westside Initiative are now owned by the nonprofit initiative. The idea was that the revenues from those properties could one day fund the group. The final stage envisioned a self-sufficient group run for the neighborhood, by the neighborhood. It seems that day is now. Solomon said the hope is to find an executive director from within the Near Westside. She's already received a few resumes. And the group is tackling one of the biggest issues facing the Near Westside right now: the loss of Nojaim's Supermarket. Solomon said the group is using that issue to talk to residents about getting involved in the process of choosing their leaders and shaping their own destiny. "Being in a community where you don't allow things to happen to you, you become a part of the decision making," Solomon said. She said they'll know by winter whether the plan for the Near Westside is to go it alone, or find another community partner. But the goal will continue to be empowering the neighborhood and people to shape and control their own fate. "At the end of the day, it's not about Syracuse University. It's about the people," she said. "I want the Near Westside Initiative to be owned and run by residents. That's the goal." Marnie Eisenstadt writes about people, life and culture in Central New York. Have an idea or question? Contact her anytime: email | twitter | Facebook | 315-470-2246 To the Editor: Does Congressman John Katko care more about the people of Central New York or his big donors? We'll find out in the coming months as Katko takes key votes on a budget that would slash trillions of dollars in essential services, including education, Medicaid, Social Security and Medicare in order to dramatically reduce taxes for the ultra-wealthy and Big Business. We in Central New York are neither ultra-wealthy, nor are we Big Business. We are working folks who want quality schools for our children, the ability to send them to college without irreconcilable debt, living wage jobs, a good doctor when we get sick, the ability to retire in comfort and to have our roads not fall apart as we drive them. We're not interested in buying another private jet or a 12th house and we don't have more than $5 million dollars in assets to pass on to our children when we die. Personally, I want to be able to send my two daughters to public school in Syracuse. It is beyond outrageous to me as someone who cares deeply about public education that our schools are so underfunded that this would have to be a question for me, but it is. I have friends who have left the city for this reason and there are thousands of students whose parents don't have that option. Our congressman should share my outrage and stand with a large majority of Americans who believe that the wealthy should be taxed more, not less so we can fund our schools and other essential services. Why would he possibly not stand with us and support a GOP tax giveaway that a bipartisan report said would provide 75 percent of the savings from the GOP tax plan would go to the top 20 percent of earners? The answer is pretty simple -- follow the money. Congressman Katko gets most of his funding for his re-election campaign from wealthy donors from outside the district. With this money, he buys adds and follows focus groups and polling to figure out the best way to get us to vote for him. They look for a nice guy like Katko who is willing to push forward their extremist agenda. He did vote against their budget on a key vote earlier this month, but let's also remember the most important vote that he took -- to make Paul Ryan the speaker of the House. This vote matters more than anything to his donors and as a result, we need to defend what we have, instead of being able to demand what we need to enable Syracuse to reach our full potential. Let's not be fooled. Follow his votes closely over the next few months to see if he stands with Central New York or with his big donors. While his votes do matter, we should also hold him accountable for the actions of the party that he voted to put in power. But don't just follow the news, help make it. Join us for rallies about the GOP tax plan outside of Congressman Katko's offices on Wednesday, Oct. 18, at noon in Syracuse and Oswego and 5 p.m. in Auburn and Lyons. Jonah Minkoff-Zern Syracuse VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Chemistree Technology Inc. (CSE:CHM) (OTCQB:CHMJF) (the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company has been engaged by Hydroselect Holdings Ltd. of Surrey, BC to assist them with their social media marketing and brand development. Hydroselect is a leading online supplier of hydroponic growing equipment, offering clients access to thousands of products including lighting, hydroponic equipment, nutrients and accessories from all the leading names in the industry. Hydroselect also provides a tremendous service by offering cutting edge educational videos on weekly basis to keep consumers informed and up to date on all topics across the growing landscape. President Karl Kottmeier said, I am happy to announce that Hydroselect has chosen Chemistree to assist them with social media marketing and brand development as they continue to grow their business in Canada and the United States. Chemistree has continued to expand its social media team and is actively looking to expand its physical presence in Washington to support its business in the Pacific Northwest. Chemistree also announces that it is in discussions with a major Oregon-based cannabis cultivator to potentially provide a comprehensive suite of marketing and branding services including social media marketing, physical product marketing and branding and graphic design creation and consulting. Graphic design work would be a new offering from Chemistree and the service is currently in its infancy at the company, having been requested repeatedly by existing and potential clients. Chemistree is an exciting new company, focusing its efforts on social media, branding, licensing and marketing technology. In addition to marketing events, brands and any other activities in the cannabis industry, the company will continue to identify other avenues for growth for social media marketing services, as well as brand marketing, product marketing, and more general services like financing and corporate consulting. The Company believes the cannabis industry offers a tremendous opportunity for growth. The reason for this is simply that marketing of cannabis companies, their products as well as information about the industry itself is in its infancy. Initially, the Pacific Northwest is the Company's main target geography, but this is expected to expand from British Columbia and Washington into Oregon, and eventually California. For more information, please contact Paul Searle at (778) 240-7724 or by email at paul@chemistree.ca. Karl Kottmeier President Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This page no longer exists or may have been moved.If you believe this is a mistake please email English French Availability of a securities note supplement to the prospectus approved by the AMF under visa no.17-551 on October 13th, 2017 Paris, France - October 17, 2017 CGG announces that, today, the Autorite des marches financiers granted visa no.17-559 to the securities note supplement (the "Securities Note Supplement") to the prospectus (in the French language) approved by the AMF under visa no.17-551 on October 13th, 2017, in connection with certain issuances provided for under the draft safeguard plan and the Chapter 11 plan in the context of the financial restructuring plan of CGG. The Securities Note Supplement supplements the prospectus and shall be read in conjunction with it. This Securities Note Supplement describes the undertaking of Bpifrance Participations to vote in favor of the resolutions required to implement the financial restructuring plan, as well as the related undertakings made by the Company and certain of its creditors in the context of the safeguard proceedings. The prospectus comprises the CGG registration document (document de reference), filed with the AMF on May 1, 2017 under number D.17-0486, the update of the Company's registration document filed with the AMF on October 13, 2017 under number D.17-0486-A01, the securities note approved by the AMF on October 13, 2017 under visa no.17-551, the securities note supplement dated October 17th, 2017 approved by the AMF under visa no.17-559, and a summary of the prospectus (included in the securities note). Copies of the prospectus can be obtained free of charge from the registered office of CGG, Tour Maine Montparnasse, 33 Avenue du Maine - 75015 Paris, the Company's website (www.cgg.com) and the AMF website (www.amf-france.org). Appendix: supplement to the summary of the prospectus The press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities. There will not be any sale of these securities in any such state or country in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any state or country. The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") and may not be offered and sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. About CGG CGG (www.cgg.com) is a fully integrated Geoscience company providing leading geological, geophysical and reservoir capabilities to its broad base of customers primarily from the global oil and gas industry. Through its three complementary business divisions of Equipment, Acquisition and Geology, Geophysics & Reservoir (GGR), CGG brings value across all aspects of natural resource exploration and exploitation. CGG employs around 5,500 people around the world, all with a Passion for Geoscience and working together to deliver the best solutions to its customers. CGG is listed on the Euronext Paris SA (ISIN: 0013181864) and the New York Stock Exchange (in the form of American Depositary Shares. NYSE: CGG). Contacts Group Communications Christophe Barnini Tel: + 33 1 64 47 38 11 E-Mail: : invrelparis@cgg.com Investor Relations Catherine Leveau Tel: +33 1 64 47 34 89 E-mail: : invrelparis@cgg.com SUPPLEMENT TO THE SUMMARY OF THE PROSPECTUS The information contained in the summary of the Prospectus remains unchanged, except for paragraph B.4a of this summary, which is modified and must be read as follows: B.4a Main recent trends with effects on the issuer and its lines of business Financial restructuring Discussions with the stakeholders [Text unchanged, subject to the following addition] It is specified that the US Court has, on October 16, 2017, entered an order confirming the Chapter 11 plan. Undertakings of the Company and certain of its creditors in the framework of the safeguard proceedings (i) Undertakings of the Company Bpifrance Participations (which held, as of September 30, 2017, 9.35% of the share capital and 10.90% of the voting rights of the Company) has undertaken to vote in favor of the resolutions required to implement the Financial Restructuring Plan at the general meeting of shareholders convened on October 31, 2017, in light of the following undertakings made by the Company on October 16, 2017: absence of any form of disposal of its significant assets until December 31, 2019, unless with the prior authorization of the Commercial Court of Paris; confirmation that the business plan does not provide for any form of disposal of significant assets held in France or abroad, including by its direct or indirect subsidiaries; should such disposals be likely to result in a substantial change to the means or goals of the draft safeguard plan, the Company would have to request the prior authorization from the Commercial Court of Paris; the Company will keep the necessary flexibility to take an active part, as the case may be, in the potential consolidation or other form of evolution that may occur in the seismic acquisition market; absence of any social or industrial restructuring contemplated in France; more precisely, unless otherwise authorized by the Commercial Court of Paris, no implementation of any redundancy plan of the Company in France until December 31, 2019, and maintaining of the decision centers currently located in France for the Company and the French law subsidiaries it controls, including the Company's registered office until December 31, 2022; and absence of any measure to oppose the governance undertakings made by the Signatory Creditors (as defined below) and discussed hereafter, and participation of Bpifrance Participations in the discussions that will take place notably with the Signatory Creditors with respect to the new composition of the Company's board of directors. The Company will request that the Commercial Court of Paris acknowledge the aforementioned undertakings in its ruling sanctioning the safeguard plan. (ii) Undertakings of certain Senior Notes holders creditors Each of (i) Attestor Capital LLP, (ii) Boussard & Gavaudan Asset Management LP, and (iii) DNCA Finance, Oralie Patrimoine and DNCA Invest SICAV (each, a Signatory Creditor ) agreed, on October 16, 2017, upon request from the Direction Generale des Entreprises, to have the Commercial Court of Paris acknowledge, in its ruling sanctioning the safeguard plan, the undertakings below to: have Bpifrance Participations involved in the discussions that will be notably held with each of the Signatory Creditors regarding the Company's board of directors' new composition, in accordance with the provisions of the Lock-up Agreement entered into by the Company on June 13, 2017; vote, during the first ordinary shareholders' meeting of the Company that will occur after the closing of the financial restructuring, in favor of the designation as director of candidates which will have been agreed between the Company's current board of directors and the relevant Signatory Creditor in the context of the above referred process; absence of representation of a Signatory Creditor (including its affiliates or related persons) on the Company's board of directors, unless it (i) holds 10% or more of the Company's share capital or (ii) demonstrates the existence of fiduciary duties (including the duties of the relevant funds' management companies to manage the money entrusted to them by investors in the best interest of such investors); vote in favor of any draft resolutions and, if necessary, submit any draft resolutions to the shareholders' meeting in order to maintain the Company's board of directors composed of 60% of independent directors and that such composition of the board continues to reflect, in accordance with the current situation, the diversity of geographical origins of the members of the board of directors, while complying with the Company's registered office location; vote in favor of any draft resolutions and, if necessary, submit any draft resolutions to the shareholders' meeting in order to ensure that the Company's articles of association provide that any chief executive officer (directeur general) succeeding, as the case may be, the current chief executive officer (directeur general), will have his main place of residence located in France. The above mentioned undertakings of each of the Signatory Creditors will become effective when all the transactions provided by the safeguard plan are completed (with the exception of the first undertaking which shall take effect as from countersignature of the letter by the Signatory Creditors). The undertakings will remain valid until December 31, 2019, subject to the corresponding Signatory Creditor remaining a shareholder of the Company. The trustee in charge of overseeing the implementation of the plan (commissaire a l'execution du plan) will issue a yearly report on the compliance with the undertakings of the Signatory Creditors and the Company described above, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Each of the Signatory Creditors declared that it does not act in concert with any other Signatory Creditor, with Bpifrance Participations, or with any other third party. China's first orbiting space station, Tiangong-1, was launched in 2011 and termed as the "potential political image" of China part of a scientific push to wind up space superpower. However, Chinese officials declared on 2016 that they had lost control of the Tiangong-1 and it is expected to crash into the Earth within the next few months. Tiangong-1 The 8.5-ton Tiangong-1, which means "Heavenly Palace 1," was utilized as both manned laboratory and an experimental testbed to demonstrate orbital rendezvous and docking capacities. The Long March 2F/G rocket was propelled in 2011 as a part of the main component of the Tiangong program, which plans to put a bigger, modular station into space by 2023. In 2013, Tiangong-1 anticipated to be deorbited and will be replaced by larger Tiangong-2 and Tiangong-3 modules. The manned engineering office for the agency said in March 2014 that space station was "in stable and normal condition with all systems operating normally and consumable resources meeting needs of follow-up tasks." However, the Chinese officials confirmed in 2016 that they had lost control of the Tiangong-1 and it would probably crash to Earth. China's space organization informed the United Nations (UN) that the space station is expected to come down to Earth between October 2017 and April 2018. Out-Of-Control Chinese Space Station "Most of the structural components of Tiangong-1 will be destroyed through burning during the course of its re-entry. The probability of endangering and causing damage to aviation and ground activities is very low," as indicated by a statement. The station may heat up in the space sooner or later but it is still unknown how much harm it would cost when collides with the Earth. "Now that [its] perigee is below 300km and it is in denser atmosphere, the rate of decay is getting higher," said Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist at Harvard University, "I expect it will come down a few months from now - late 2017 or early 2018." McDowell additionally said that some parts weighing as much as 100 kilograms could crash-land to Earth with researchers unable to foresee where it will descend until just hours beforehand. China is also currently observing the re-entry process of the Tiangong-1 and guaranteed to give updates through enhancing monitoring and forecasting. On the other note, China has its particular space station since it is not permitted on the International Space Station like different countries are. In 2011, law prevents NASA to team up with the Chinese space program because of the national security concerns. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A senior inventor at IBM Hursley Innovation Center forecasted that artificially intelligent nanomachines will be implanted into humans as early as within two decades to repair and enhance the cells, bones, and muscles of the body. Nanobots And Human Health Nanobots are very tiny machines, thousands of which can fit across the diameter of a single human hair. Researchers have been conducting studies on the potentials of these tiny robots in improving human health. In a study published in the journal Nature in Aug. 30, researchers found that nanobots drilled into cancer-affected areas can kill cancerous cells in just one minute. "We show that molecular machines can drill through cellular bilayers using their molecular-scale actuation, specifically nanomechanical action," study researcher Victor Garcia-Lopez, from the Department of Chemistry of the Rice University in Houston, Texas, and colleagues wrote in their study. Experiments are now being conducted, which could eventually lead to clinical trials involving human beings that may potentially pave way to saving the lives of those who suffer from cancer. Superhumans Nanobots implanted into the human body may even make possible superhuman strength and ability to control things with the mind in the future. John McNamara, from IBM Hursley Innovation Centre, who submitted evidence to the House of Lords Artificial Intelligence Committee, which considers the ethical, economic, and social implications of AI, said that artificial intelligence technology may have greatly improved within 20 years that humans and machines could be effectively melded together. McNamara said that these AI nanomachines implanted into the human body will offer huge medical benefits, which include being able to repair damaged cells and organs and possibly even augment them. He added that this technology, when embedded in humans and in their surroundings, may allow humans to control their environment with only their thoughts and gestures. "We see the creation of technology that can meld the biological with the technological, and so be able to enhance human cognitive capability directly," McNamara said. McNamara also predicted the so-called political avatars that can scour available data from news sites and government debates to give people recommendations on who to vote, depending on their views. Fears Some, however, are concerned about the unwanted implications of artificial intelligence. For one, humans may start accepting the decisions of machines as better than their own. Theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking have been warning that an excess of artificial intelligence may lead to the destruction of the human race. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. YUBA CITY, Calif, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a release issued under the same headline earlier today by River Valley Community Bank (OTC:RVCB), please note that in the first paragraph of the release, the quarter ended date should be September 30, 2017, not June 30, 2017 as previously stated. Six killed in Spain, Portugal as wildfires fanned by hurricane Madrid (AFP) Oct 16, 2017 Three people have been killed in Portugal as the country is hit by a record number of forest fires, and three more have died in Spain where blazes sparked by arsonists have been fanned by strong winds from Hurricane Ophelia. In total, some 440 fires were burning across Portugal Sunday, which is "the worst day since the beginning of the year," according to a spokeswoman for the national civil protection agency, Patricia Gaspar. In addition to the three dead, some 25 people had been injured, she s ... read more LEXINGTON, Ky., Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Smithfield Foods Helping Hungry Homes initiative, a program focused on alleviating hunger and helping Americans become more food secure, joined forces with Kroger to donate more than 39,000 pounds of protein to Gods Pantry Food Bank. The donation, equivalent to more than 159,000 servings, will help those fighting hunger across Central and Eastern Kentucky, where one in six individuals are food insecure. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f8df8038-bc34-4680-b10e-f7199e8c45a3 Hunger is a harsh reality that hundreds of thousands of individuals face each day across our 50-county service area, said Michael Halligan, CEO of Gods Pantry Food Bank. Were thankful for todays donation from our friends at Smithfield Foods, which will strengthen our ability to alleviate hunger and offer a steady source of proteinan essential nutrientto those who are seeking food assistance. Smithfield and Kroger representatives presented the donation to Gods Pantry Food Bank at an event that raised awareness of hungers impact in the local community. Members from all three organizations discussed the significance of protein donations in helping the more than 200,000 individuals who seek support from Gods Pantry Food Bank and its partners each year. At Kroger, we are passionate about ending hunger in the communities we call home, said Erin Grant, spokesperson for Kroger. Were proud to stand with Smithfield today in support of our common mission to feed our Kentucky neighbors in need. Smithfields donation to Gods Pantry Food Bank was a part of the Helping Hungry Homes 2017 nationwide donation tour. Throughout the annual tour, Smithfield will provide large-scale protein donations to nearly 60 food banks across the country. This donation adds to the more than 80 million servings of protein donated since 2011. As a global food company, we value our role and responsibility to provide wholesome protein to those fighting food insecurity, said Dennis Pittman, senior director of hunger relief for Smithfield Foods. Todays donation with Kroger allows us to further deliver on that commitment by providing enough protein to place on thousands of dinner plates across Central and Eastern Kentucky for weeks to come. Following this event, Helping Hungry Homes will visit Dallas, Texas, Tuesday, Oct. 24. For more information about Helping Hungry Homes and a list of upcoming donation events, visit helpinghungryhomes.com. About Smithfield Foods Smithfield Foods is a $15 billion global food company and the world's largest pork processor and hog producer. In the United States, the company is also the leader in numerous packaged meats categories with popular brands including Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan's Famous, Farmland, Armour, John Morrell, Cook's, Kretschmar, Gwaltney, Curly's, Margherita, Carando, Healthy Ones, Krakus, Morliny and Berlinki. Smithfield Foods is committed to providing good food in a responsible way and maintains robust animal care, community involvement, employee safety, environmental and food safety and quality programs. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com. About Gods Pantry Food Bank The mission of Gods Pantry Food Bank is to reduce hunger in Kentucky through community cooperation making the best possible use of all available resources. Along with our network of nearly 400 partner agency and programs, the Food Bank serves 50 counties of Central and Eastern Kentucky distributing $100 worth of food for every $10 donated. Last year, Gods Pantry Food Bank and its partners distributed more than 32 million pounds of groceries to more than 190,000 individuals, including 12 million pounds of fresh produce. Gods Pantry Food Bank is a member of Feeding America. For more information visit us at www.godspantryfoodbank.org About Kroger Every day, the Kroger Family of Companies makes a difference in the lives of eight and a half million customers and 443,000 associates who shop or serve in 2,796 retail food stores under a variety of local banner names in 35 states and the District of Columbia. Kroger and its subsidiaries operate an expanding ClickList offering a personalized, order online, pick up at the store service in addition to our 2,255 pharmacies, 784 convenience stores, 319 fine jewelry stores, 220 retail health clinics, 1,445 supermarket fuel centers and 38 food production plants in the United States. Kroger is recognized as one of Americas most generous companies for its support of more than 100 Feeding America food bank partners, breast cancer research and awareness, the military and their families, and more than 145,000 community organizations including schools. A leader in supplier diversity, Kroger is a proud member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable. Media Contacts: Dalton Agency for Smithfield Jana Beasley (904) 534-8568 jbeasley@daltonagency.com Gods Pantry Food Bank Misty Simms (859) 288-5327 msimms@godspantry.org Kroger Erin Grant (502) 423-4158 erin.grant@kroger.com Tony, the tiger housed for 17 years as a roadside attraction at the Tiger Truck Stop in the Iberville Parish community of Grosse Tete, has been euthanized due to health issues, according to a written statement from Ted Baldwin apparently on behalf of owner Michael Sandlin. Tony was put down Monday evening, after his health declined due to kidney failure, the statement says. A necropsy will be done by veterinarians to learn more about Tony's illness. Tony was six months of age when he came to live at the Tiger Truck Stop in January 2001, according to the statement. "The decision was made to end his suffering at his facility," the statement says, describing "a sad day for his owner Michael Sandlin and the entire (Tiger Truck Stop) family." Sandlin could not be reached Monday night for comment. Back in April, he denied that Tony was suffering and said the tiger was seen regularly by a veterinarian, limped from arthritis and only had loose stools after getting anti-worm medicine. "He is not sick. He's simply an old man with some arthritis," Sandlin had said. Tony was old for a tiger, which typically lives 14 to 18 years in captivity, Dr. David Baker, a veterinarian with the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, said at that time. Like people with arthritis, Sandlin has said, Tony would wake up a bit stiff and loosened up during the day. He lived in a cage with a grassy area, a large water tank to swim in, a hanging tire and other toys. "We just want to make him as comfortable as we can, and we don't want him to be in pain. That's what the medication is for," Sandlin said. The tale of the tiger was a long one, involving court cases in which animal rights groups attempted to have him removed from the truck stop, arguing he wasn't receiving adequate care. The Animal Legal Defense Fund released a statement Monday night expressing regret that "despite our best efforts, he lived and died caged at a truck stop that could never provide the life he deserved. Tonys tragic death demonstrates how our legal system leaves wildlife, including members of endangered species like Tony, extremely vulnerable to exploitation by incompetent or uncaring individuals, ALDF Executive Director Stephen Wells said in the statement. In July, the latest legal skirmish played out in San Francisco, where the ALDF, which asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture in April to investigate and ensure that Tony was properly cared for, sued the department in federal district court. The ALDF filed a Freedom of Information Act request in May for records related to the USDA's inspection of Tony. Can't see video below? Click here. Estimados amigos, Les doy cordialmente la bienvenida a este Blog informativo con articulos, analisis y comentarios de publicaciones especializadas y especialmente seleccionadas, principalmente sobre temas economicos, financieros y politicos de actualidad, que esperamos y deseamos, sean de su maximo interes, utilidad y conveniencia. Pensamos que solo comprendiendo cabalmente el presente, es que podemos proyectarnos acertadamente hacia el futuro. Las convicciones son mas peligrosos enemigos de la verdad que las mentiras. There are decades when nothing happens and there are weeks when decades happen. You only find out who is swimming naked when the tide goes out. No soy alguien que sabe, sino alguien que busca. Only Gold is money. Everything else is debt. Las grandes almas tienen voluntades; las debiles tan solo deseos. Quien no lo ha dado todo no ha dado nada. History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. If you know the other and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of infinity. Life is eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share.This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in eternity. The first-degree murder trial of two cousins accused in the October 2015 robbery, beating, abduction and slaying of an elderly Highland Road couple has been pushed back from late next month to June. Ernesto Llerena Alonso, 44, and Frank Garcia, 49, face life prison terms if found guilty as charged in the killing of Denis "Bubbie" Duplantier, 71, and Suzanne "Suzy" Duplantier, 70. Alonso and Garcia are being held without bail. Their trial was delayed Monday at the request of the East Baton Rouge Parish Public Defenders Office, which represents Garcia. The New Orleans-based Capital Defense Project of Southeast Louisiana represents Alonso. Alonso lived in an apartment above a barn on property owned by the Duplantiers and did landscaping work for them. The couple's bodies were discovered Oct. 19, 2015, in the backseat of their red pickup at the Petro truck stop in Hammond. Alonso's white pickup was captured on surveillance video as it followed the Duplantiers' truck into the gas station. A safe inside the Duplantier home was found open with cash missing. Investigators believe Alonso and Garcia went into the home and beat the couple to get the information needed to open the safe. Blood was found in several rooms, police have stated. A large amount of cash and a number of unspecified items believed stolen from the Highland Road residence were discovered in Garcia's home in Florida, authorities have said. Alonso's truck also was recovered at Garcia's house. After consulting with the victims' family, prosecutors announced in 2016 that they would not seek the death penalty in the case in order to speed up the process. At a court hearing in the case earlier this year, attorneys raised the possibility of using two juries one for Alonso and the other for Garcia to try them simultaneously in the same courtroom. Dwight Doskey, who represents Alonso, said Tuesday a dual-jury setup is still a possibility. Doskey said he has not filed a motion to sever Alonso's case from Garcia's. Mike Mitchell, the chief public defender in East Baton Rouge Parish, said he will serve as Garcia's lead counsel. Mitchell said he requested the trial delay because he needed more time to investigate the case and prepare Garcia's defense. The trial, which had been set to start Nov. 27, was rescheduled to June 18. Perhaps unsurprisingly, campaign finance reports show that one of the political action committees punching back at attackers of Desiree Charbonnet gets most of its money from Charbonnet advisers and relatives. Ironically, however, the group, Watchdog PAC, has been warning against the influence of other dark money groups, particularly the Sidney Torres-headed Voice of the People. That outfit, helmed by the celebrity garbage hauler and reality-television star, ran ads against Charbonnet in the waning weeks of the campaign. Another group that aims to protect Charbonnet, Truth in Government PAC, has more obscure funding. That organization has gone after both Torres and charter school advocate Leslie Jacobs, a primary backer of the anti-Charbonnet Not For Sale NOLA PAC. Sparring among the various PACs has made for an unusual sideshow in the mayors race. While its not uncommon for such groups to finance attacks on candidates, it's rare for the attacks to focus on organizations and people that are not even in the running. Watchdog PAC, which has put out ads telling Torres, Grow up Sidney, well chose our own mayor, was created in 2015 and is run by a former aide to then-state treasurer and current Republican U.S. Senator John Kennedy. It got an infusion of cash this month from members of Charbonnets inner circle. Bernard Bunny Charbonnet, Desiree Charbonnets brother, and Kay Charbonnet, her niece, gave $10,000 through a business they own. And lawyer Ike Spears, a significant supporter of Charbonnets, donated $30,000 to the PAC through two businesses. The rest came from a $5,000 donation from Sundiata Haley, who has the contract to work as the Regional Transit Authoritys general counsel, and $2,000 from the plumbers and steamfitters union. That, Torres said this week, shows hypocrisy from a group that has complained about outside influences in the race and raises questions about whether the campaign and the PACs were coordinating their efforts. Come out on front street, do it from your own campaign, Torres said, adding that some of the fliers bear the same return address as those from Charbonnets campaign. Kevin Stuart, a spokesman for the Charbonnet campaign, said despite the donations from those close to the candidate, there was no coordination between the campaign and the PAC. We put our name on everything we do, the campaign has no connection to what people do -- theyll have to answer for themselves, Stuart said, noting that the Charbonnet campaign has put out its own fliers attacking Torres. Asked about the contributions from Charbonnets relatives and Spears, Stuart said, They are friends and relatives but who friends and relatives give to is not up to the campaign or the candidate. Truth in Governments backers are less prominent. Former Orleans Parish School Board candidate Alvin Crusto gave $6,000 and Glynn Durand gave $9,500. Another $5,000 came from Anthony and Nicole Marullo and Jay Roberts also gave $5,000. None of those individuals gave to Charbonnets campaign, but the Gee Cee Co., a city contractor, gave $2,500 to the PAC after giving $5,000 to Charbonnet. Torres, who said he plans to run more ads before the Nov. 18 general election, denied claims in the ads run by Watchdog and Truth in Government and challenged Charbonnet to deny anything in the spots hes run. Torres began to go after the former Municipal Court judge after she dropped out of a debate hosted by The Voice of the People, which the campaign attributed to a decision by two local TV stations to pull out of the event. Thats led to a back-and-forth between Torres and Charbonnet, with both sides running ads and Charbonnets camp making a long-shot play to get CNBC to cancel Torres reality show. We rely on your support to make local news available to all Make your contribution now and help Gothamist thrive in 2022. Donate today A person takes photos after the explosion on a gas platform in Lake Pontchartrain where seven people were rushed to hospital, with five in critical condition, and one person is still missing in Kenner, La. Monday, Oct. 16, 2017. Frank Scurlock, the eccentric businessman who ran a longshot race for New Orleans mayor and more recently announced he was running for preside Malcolm Suber, left, leader of the New Orleans People's Assembly, holds a news conference Monday, Oct. 16, in front of the Sixth Union Baptist Church, in Treme. He was joined by Shawon Bernard, the church's secretary, and Bill Quigley, a Loyola University law professor who is suing the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board. Investigators searching the Clovelly Oil Co. platform in Lake Pontchartrain that exploded Sunday night did not find the body of missing worker Similar to the rise of craft rye whiskey, local craft hard cider has continued to grow in popularity, enabled by initiatives out of Albany that encouraged the growth and proliferation of hard cideries. Several new cider-centric bars are opening this fall and October also sees the return of Cider Week, the annual week-long celebration of all things associated with boozy fruit. Each year, cider-makers descend on NYC to throw lavish cider dinners, cider happy hours, cider walk around tasting events and other ways to interact with and sample ciders made predominantly in New York State. Below, a few highlights of this year's events schedule. (Note: irritatingly, the Cider Week website does not always allow for linking directly to individual events, so you'll have to scroll the "Happenings" page manually.) The popular Applepalooza event isn't happening this year, but there are several large tasting events on the docket. First up, Eataly NYC Downtown's Cider & Beer Fest (Wednesday, October 18th, 6 - 9 p.m., tickets $50), which bucks with tradition a bit because these are Italian ciders and beers. However, cider is cider, and you'll get unlimited pours of it plus "savory fall pairings" from the kitchen. Then, Jimmy Carbone of Jimmy's No. 43 throws a Ciderfeast (Saturday, October 28th, 1 - 4 p.m., tickets $45) at The Brooklyn Kitchen in Williamsburg. The all-inclusive event features over 10 cider brands, plus some craft beer; demos; live music; and cheese, roasted pork, vegetarian bites, and more food. Bad Seed, one of two dedicated cider bars opening in Brooklyn this fall, celebrates its Tap Room Grand Opening (Friday, October 20th, 1 - 5 p.m.) on Franklin Avenue in Crown Heights. The tap room will pour ciders from the Bad Seed cidery out of Highland, NY, plus 20 other craft ciders and beers originating in the Hudson River Valley. Expect all day happy hour ($5 drafts) plus some exclusive perks for party attendees. Cider's natural pairing with cheese will be exploited at several cheese-and-cider pairings, starting with Naked Flock Cider Tastings at Lucy's Whey (Saturday, October 21st, noon - 2 p.m.) and Malt & Mold (Saturday, October 21st, 3 - 6 p.m.). Then Murray's Cheese hosts American Fine Cider and Cheese (Thursday, October 26th, 6:30 - 8 p.m., tickets $80) with cider samples made from rare heirloom and tannic apple varieties sourced from the East Coast, alongside cheeses selected by a Murray's expert that showcase the terroir of both the ciders and the cheese. Murray's will also host a Cider Cocktails and Cheese event (Saturday, October 28th, 1 - 2:30 p.m., tickets $85). Cider Week runs officially from October 20th - October 29th; see the full lineup of events here. A Canberra man was refused bail on Tuesday after allegedly launching a violent assault on his pregnant partner in the middle of the night. In an incident lasting hours, the 35-year-old dragged the woman by the hair and kicked her in the stomach before threatening her with two kitchen knives, a police statement of facts tendered in court alleges. The man, who has not been named to protect the identity of his partner, pleaded not guilty to all charges during his appearance in the ACT Magistrates Court. Prosecutors opposed his release on bail. The Phillip man had been drinking when he returned to his unit about 2am on Monday and pulled his partner from bed by her hair, the documents allege. Jake Stringer is edging closer to landing at the Bombers with the Western Bulldogs working feverishly on a complicated three-party draft pick exchange. West Coast's desire for more early selections in this year's national draft created the opportunity for the Bulldogs to convert Essendon's two second-round draft picks for Stringer into a pick inside the first round. The Jake Stringer deal is edging closer. Credit:AAP The Bulldogs appear to have come to terms with the fact that Essendon's pick 25 and 30 are the best they can hope to receive from the Bombers for Stringer and are negotiating a complex pick swap with the Eagles. Under the deal, the Bulldogs would give the Eagles pick 9, 25 and 30 in exchange for West Coast's pick 13 and a swap of future draft picks. Embattled logistics giant Brambles faces a fresh challenge in the shape of a potential $100 million class action over alleged failures to keep investors informed. Brambles, which is a global pallet giant that operates in more than 60 countries, faces the prospect of a Maurice Blackburn-led class action that will allege the company failed to keep investors informed about its true financial position leading into the early months of this year. Chairman Stephen Johns told investors in November that the outlook for sales growth and profit growth "remains unchanged". Credit:Jim Rice With the support of British litigation funder Harbour, Maurice Blackburn argues that Brambles had misled investors when it reaffirmed earnings guidance for the 2017 financial year in October of 2016. Brambles indicated in January, about 11 weeks later, that it would not meet that guidance, triggering a 15.8 per cent fall in its share price, then a month later it again downgraded guidance, sparking a further 9.9 per cent fall. Earlier this week, activist investors announced their intention to vote against Origin's board over climate change risk disclosure. "However, we are keeping an open mind, our role is to work with the government, opposition, and regulators these mechanisms deliver," Mr Richards said, "and ensure it gets us closer to a bipartisan policy." AGL said the National Energy Guarantee would bring investment certainty. "The recommendation from the Energy Security Board is an important step forward," an AGL spokesman said. "We are heartened by the emphasis on consultation and eager to work with government and our industry peers to make this work. If it gets bipartisan support, we believe it will provide investment certainty." There may be conflict, as generators may say 'Here's another obligation we have to manage, and we are being forced to include things in our portfolio that our shareholders don't want us to do. Andrew Richards, Energy Users Association of Australia CEO Energy Australia chairman Graham Bradley said. "Attracting investment in new generation is critical to restoring the vitality of the National Electricity Market and, if we're to achieve that, there is no substitute for stable, bipartisan energy policy. "We have seen energy-buying standards for retailers used elsewhere in the world to good effect to manage system availability and reliability," he said "Of course, no two markets are the same but the ESB's proposal is worth further consideration to see if it would work here." Engie, which operates wind farms, gas-fired power plants, and the brown coal-fired Loy Yang B power station, declined to comment on how the policy would impact its operations. Stanwell Corporation, which is in the unique position of being a miner, generator, and retailer that utilises a variety of energy source, also declined to comment. Both Origin and AGL tracked similarly on the stock exchange, with their share price slipping before bottoming out at the time of the announcement, after which both saw share price increases towards the afternoon. The Australian Industry Group, which represents a cross-section of Australian business, said it welcomed THE commitment by the government to create certainty in the market. "Today's announcement by the Prime Minister offers a plausible new direction for energy policy with a welcome focus on energy security but further work will be needed by all concerned to help significantly drive down energy prices for hard pressed domestic and industrial energy users," Australian Industry Group chief executive Innes Willox said. "If agreed and finalised, the plan would clarify the future treatment of electricity sector emissions and give investors greater confidence to build the new and upgraded generation we need. But only bipartisanship on energy policy will create the conditions for long-term investment in energy generation and by big energy users," Mr Willox said. Speaking at a news conference, Energy Security Board chairwoman Kerry Schott and Australian Energy Market Commission chairman John Pierce said the crux of the NEG is implementing greater synchronous power - that is coal and gas - into the energy mix to ensure reliability. "By placing obligation onto the retailers, you are placing two more requirements on them, that they can manage how they manage their contracts now; whether they are complying will be regulated by Australian Energy Regulator," Ms Schott said. Mr Pierce said: "This policy gives certainty to this industry that hasn't been here for a long time, and brings investments that has stalled under renewable energy schemes." Mr Pierce said it would also improve competition in the retail space, as it relies on existing contract style mechanisms, rather than the trading of certificates. "It provides a reduction in uncertainty, and the unlocking of investment, as the mechanism uses existing market processes and existing market contracts so people have more options." Energy thinktank, the Grattan Institute, believed the NEG can work, on principle. "This is the first time since 2007 that we will have something may work,"Grattan Institute energy director Tony Wood told Fairfax Media. "Concern was raised earlier in the month over Mr Frydenberg's comments at the National Energy Summit that there wasn't going to be a pathway, but this policy will provide that." However, he raised concerns over government pricing claims, stating, "they're talking about a reduction in prices of more than Finkel forecast, but without the CET." He added that it is even consistent with AGL chief executive Andy Vesey's comments on the need for a varied generation mix, and underpins AGL's upgrading of the Bayswater coal-fired power station. "It is likely to see support by all, including Labor, industry, states, and environmentalists," he said. Nissan is the latest car manufacturer to sell a redundant Australian site, offloading its 11.4 hectare local headquarters and adjoining warehouse distribution centre in Dandenong South, Melbourne, to a private syndicate for a speculated $35 million. The Yokohama-based giant which operated a manufacturing plant in Clayton between 1966 and 1992 plans to expand its workforce and will use the sale proceeds to relocate functions, including offices, to a more modern headquarters elsewhere in the south-east. Nissan has sold its headquarters at 260-270 Frankston Dandenong Road. The sale of 260-270 Dandenong Frankston Road comes more than two years since Nissan announced it would outsource warehouse and distribution functions to logistics giant Ceva (which in February opened the Truganina facility which would carry out the function, a $80 million single-span warehouse the size of eight MCG-sized playing fields). As well as a double-storey, 4846 square metre office on a 2.68 hectare plot, the Dandenong South offering includes three warehouses containing a total net lettable area of 27,586 square metres, and a self-contained training centre, on a neighbouring property known as 8-22 Quality Drive. In the continuing fallout of the Weinstein affair, it was inevitable that the fashion industry would begin to engage in some collective throat clearing. Sure enough, model Cara Delevingne, who had written on her Instagram account about several encounters she'd had with Harvey Weinstein at the start of her acting career, declared this was only the beginning. "In every industry," she wrote, "... men abuse their power using fear and get away with it." The inference that she was pointing the finger at fashion was inescapable. It prompted Cameron Russell, a successful model who has walked in shows for Victoria's Secret, Louis Vuitton, Versace and Chanel to post: "A brave model asked that I share her words here because the photographer still works in the industry." She went on to collect the painful experiences of other models. promising to post them anonymously. "We need a way to begin breaking the silence. We are not talking about one, five, or even 20 men. We are talking about a culture of exploitation and it must stop." In 2014 the internet blew up with allegations of the gross, exploitative, downright abusive behaviour of Terry Richardson, a hugely successful, influential and powerful photographer (with Gucci campaigns and many a Vogue shoot under his belt). Model after model came forward with harrowing accusations of how Richardson had demeaned them and in extreme cases, they alleged that he coerced them into having sex with him. The industry was outraged. Some labels refused to work with him, Terry Richardson claimed the allegations were false... and then nothing. Plenty of conjecture about out-of-court settlements but no legal action. Just this summer I saw him at a party for a big fashion label in New York. Sexual harassment - and worse - is much more of a problem for male models who have to contend with (some) male photographers preying on them - or blacklisting them. No one wants the latter. Many male photographers and stylists wield huge clout and some of them can make or break careers. And abuse can come in many forms. As an advocate, Harris van Beek changed the way Australia and its leaders thought about issues such as the death penalty and regional atrocities, but his diligent work also elevated human rights in the nation's mind. But were it not for a letter to the Herald and a subsequent order for psychiatric examination, the man who the journalist Phillip Adams described as one of Australia's greatest ever human rights advocates might have had a different story. Harris van Beek became Amnesty NSW's first full-time employee in 1978. At 21, the young graduate was keen on making the world a better place, but found himself with light duties in a place where such ideals often wither: the local government division of the NSW public service. But even here, a lifelong instinct to speak out found an outlet, though one that required him to blow the whistle on himself. With the Higher School Certificate written exams starting this week and the Senate in Canberra poised to debate major higher education reforms, this is a pivotal week for school leavers and universities. Year 12 is always a stressful time for students and their families but now there is added pressure because of the uncertainty facing universities. The government's reform package, if passed, will not only increase student fees but means universities will receive less funding for each student they enrol. At the University of Sydney, we estimate a cut of at least $50 million over the next four years. This will reduce our capacity to invest in the quality of our courses and student support services. Without changes to the reform Bill, we will be forced to close two nursing courses we have been delivering successfully for more than a decade. Students who graduate from these programs achieve excellent employment outcomes and are a valuable asset to our health system. Households will be an average $2 a week better off under a reinvention of Australia's energy and emissions policy and the Turnbull government has refused to guarantee even those meagre savings. It emerged on Tuesday that the savings could start as low as $25 a year, or 50 a week. Despite pitching the policy as a salve to the hip pockets of price-weary power consumers, the government also concedes that the predicted cost saving was based on preliminary analysis, and detailed modelling has not yet been carried out. The government on Tuesday sought to reset the national energy debate by announcing energy companies will be forced to meet mandated standards of reliability and emissions reduction, which would reduce the risk of blackouts and drive prices down. A week and a half ago, Harvey Weinstein was fired as the co-chairman of The Weinstein Company after the NY Times revealed "decades of sexual harassment allegations." Now the once-powerful movie producer has reportedly resigned from the Weinstein Company's board. According to TMZ, Weinstein was going to call into the New York-based company's board meeting from his stint in sex addiction rehab in Arizona. His lawyer, Patty Glaser, was reportedly going to attend to argue that his firing violated an employment contract. After the NY Times story, which included details about at least eight settlements and harrowing anecdotes from former employees as well as actresses, like Ashley Judd, numerous women have come forward to share their experiences being sexually harassed and assaulted by Weinstein. Three women told the New Yorker that they were raped by Weinstein. [Weinstein has admitted to bad behavior but accused the Times of "reckless reporting," and also denied accusations of rape.] Now, TMZ reports, "Sources with direct knowledge of the Board meeting tell TMZ, under Weinstein's contract after he was fired from the company there was a 5 day 'cooling off period' to let the dust settle. After 5 days the matter goes to the Board of Directors which then must ratify the firing. That's what happened today. The Board ratified Weinstein's firing. We're told under the terms of Weinstein's contract once the Board ratifies the firing he must resign from the Board. If Weinstein refused to resign the plan was to remove him -- in effect, fire him from the Board. Weinstein decided to resign." There has been considerable speculation about the future of the Weinstein Company, which Weinstein co-founded with his brother Bob (the pair previously founded Miramax Films before selling it to Disney). Bob Weinstein spent the past weekend saying the company was in fine financial shape and not considering shuttering or sellingbut then the company got an "immediate" cash infusion from private equity firm Colony Capital on Monday. Weinstein still holds 23% of the Weinstein Company, and the Hollywood Reporter points out, "Analysts and finance attorneys say it won't be easy rescuing TWC, whose relationship with talent, agents and other Hollywood power brokers has been severely jeopardized. Also, TWC was struggling financially even before becoming engulfed in one of the biggest scandals in Hollywood history." Attorney Larry Hutcher, a specialist in corporate divorce at Davidoff Hutcher and Citron, warns that Harvey Weinstein still has significant power and can potentially kill any deal simply by refusing to sell his 20-plus percent stake in the business. Hes in a very favorable position because he likely cannot be compelled to sell his shares, and he has significant rights as a large shareholder. If were advising Colony, I would stipulate that a sale include Harveys interest, but his sense of entitlement might cause him to hang on, even if it meant the death knell of the company," Hutcher tells The Hollywood Reporter. that Colony Capital will continue to let Bob Weinstein run Dimension Film, the horror genre arm of the company, but will remove him from leadership positions in hopes that cleaning house will help repair relationships with other partners. On Saturday, Bob Weinstein claimed he thought that his brother was a just a "pervasive" cheaterhe didn't realize he was trapping women in hotel rooms or forcing himself on them. He added that his brother had also subjected him to verbal and physical abuse, "I am not looking for one bit of sympathy from anyone. I do not put myself in the category at all of those women that he hurt. But it's a complicated situation when it's your brother doing the abusing to you as well. I saw it and I asked him to get help for many years. And that's the truth. He avoided getting the help. We begged him." Today, Bob Weinstein was accused of sexually harassing the female showrunner for Spike TV show The Mist. In the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, more stories have emerged of misogyny in Hollywood. But, in amongst all of the stories of sexist and predatory behaviour, one story has cut through as an incredible example of women sticking up for each other. Please let this story about Carrie Fisher and the cow tongue be true. Credit:AP It has the late and great Carrie Fisher as its protagonist. And it heavily features a cow's tongue. Really. Heather Robinson, a screenwriter best known for the 2005 romantic comedy The Perfect Man starring Heather Locklear and Hilary Duff, recently made a call to an Arizona local radio station to tell the story of how Fisher stood up for her when she had a bad experience with an Oscar-winning producer (who Robinson did not name) in 2000. A Supreme Court judge has rejected Clive Palmer's request to recuse himself from his ongoing legal stoush with liquidators. Mr Palmer said Justice John Bond raised matters while he was absent from court in his capacity as a self-represented litigant during a September hearing in what he claimed was "apprehended bias" and possible pre-judgment. Clive Palmer outside the Brisbane Supreme Court on Tuesday. Credit:Darren England/AAP The application was heard on Tuesday but following several hours of submissions it was dismissed with Justice Bond saying there was no basis for the application. Small business customers across Australia were met with an error message when trying to log into the eParcel service and PO Box transactions were also hit. They were meant to be delivered on Monday but Jay was unable to send the orders due to Australia Post's online parcel delivery system crashing from midday on Monday until the early hours of Tuesday morning. Natasha Jay is surrounded by carefully packaged orders for her organic hair care business Pump Haircare. Pump Haircare's logistics software allowed it to print the labels for the packages but due to Australia Post's meltdown the business could not dispatch anything or get tracking for its orders. Natasha Jay of Pump Haircare was unable to send 300 packages as a result of the outage. Credit:James Brickwood "We had about 300 orders that had to go out and 50 per cent of those are Express Post," Jay says. "We base our whole business on orders going in that day and going out the same day. "We have a huge emphasis on customer service so the outage really affected us. I will be refunding all express orders but will Australia Post be refunding me?" Both are being questioned and have not yet been charged. A second man was arrested for suspected drug offences. Armed crime squad detectives and heavily armed Special Operations Group police raided the Meadow Heights home at 2.45pm. A 28-year-old man has been arrested over a shooting in Melbourne's north. Police said the arrest related to a non-fatal shooting in Castella Court, Meadow Heights, that happened about 8.20pm on Sunday. Two men were arguing in a driveway when a gun was produced and a 30-year-old Epping man was shot in the leg. The gunmen fled the scene. A 43-year-old woman all but admitted to WA Police she knew her serial killer- obsessed housemate would murder autistic teenager Aaron Pajich after she lured him to their home. Trudi Lenon and her housemate Jemma Lilley, 26, had been friends for about four months and had lived together for a fortnight when they allegedly killed the 18-year-old at their Orelia house in June last year. Aaron Pajich's body was found buried in the back garden. One week later, he was found in a shallow grave in their backyard, covered with concrete and tiles. Lenon admitted being an accessory, which prosecutors rejected, and the pair are now into the third week of their Supreme Court murder trial. Puerto Rico continues to suffer nearly a month after Hurricane Maria, with 85 percent of the island still lacking electricity. Cellphone service and clean water is still limited throughout the territory, and hospitals have had a particularly hard time coping with limited resources and an influx of patients. In response, the federal government sent down the USNS Comfort, the Navy's East Coast hospital ship, which has 250 beds. Unfortunately, people in need don't seem to be able to get onboard. CNN reports that two weeks into the Comfort's arrival in Puerto Rico, only 33 of its beds are being used. Puerto Rico's governor, Ricardo Rossello, blamed the empty beds on communication problems between the island's Department of Health, which decides which patients get onboard, and the ship's personnel. "The disconnect or the apparent disconnect was in the communications flow," he said. "I asked for a complete revision of that so that we can now start sending more patients over there." Doctors on the island say they don't know how to get their patients on the Comfort. One 18-year-old patient, Sammy Rolon, needs surgery for his cerebral palsy, but his doctors have no idea how to transfer him to the floating hospital. "It's very frustrating," Rolon's doctor, Jorge Rosado, told CNN. "I know they have the capacity; they have the medical staff; they have the supplies. ... To hear there's only 33 patients in such a big mobile hospital -- it's tough." There have at least been some patients on the Comforton Saturday, one patient gave birth onboard to a baby girl. "I never thought that our special moment would happen here on this ship," the baby's father, Francisco Llull Vera, said in a statement Sunday. "Everyone has been so helpful and gentle while caring for our baby. I hope this opens the door for those who still need help to seek out the Comfort." Meanwhile, critics have continued to speak out against the federal government's response to storm recovery. Recently, Congress pledged $4 billion to help Puerto Rico bounce back from the hurricane, despite experts estimating the island sustained at least $90 billion in damages. President Donald Trump has repeatedly mentioned how much the storm is costing the U.S. government, and recently threatened to pull federal relief workers from the island if Congress chose not to appropriate enough funds. "This is not the time to be talking about withdrawing the help, Jenniffer Gonzalez, Puerto Rico's non-voting representative in Congress, and a Trump supporter, told Politico. "This is not the time to talk about how much its costing the U.S., because we are American citizens." So far, officials have reported 48 deaths as a result of Hurricane Maria, but the real toll is expected to be much, much higher. Some family members of recently deceased Puerto Ricans say their loved ones' deaths were hastened by the catastrophe, but not included in the official count. Bronx resident and paramedic Joe Conzo Jr., whose mother, Lorraine Montenegro, died shortly after the storm, is convinced her death was hurricane-related. "As a medical professional, I started going through my mental Rolodex of what could have happened," Conzo told the Times. "She wasnt a sickly person. But when we learned she had gone in for shortness of breath, that indicated her body was shutting down. Can we say the hurricane killed her? I dont know. But I do know that living under the conditions they had on the island for days takes a toll on even a healthy person." There are still a number of ways Americans on the mainland can support Puerto Ricans, including by donating to the Hispanic Federation UNIDOS Disaster Relief Fund, or by attending next Thursday's fundraising event hosted by Radio Ambulante, NPRs only Spanish Language podcastthe $40 storytelling event at the Murmrr Theatre on Eastern Parkway will benefit ongoing relief efforts in Puerto Rico. Souvla, a Greek-inspired wrap spot with three San Francisco locations, arrives in NYC for two days this week with a delivery-only pop-up via Caviar, the third party delivery company. The restaurantwhich SFist dubs "supes pops casual (but organically priced)" and the "Chipotle of Greek food"specializes in souvlaki, spit-roasted meats and veggies wrapped in pita with sauces and seasonings. They'll be bringing that menu to Manhattan (partially) when the company operates its pop-up on Thursday and Friday for lunch and dinner. Sandwiches and salads include lamb leg with harissa-spiked yogurt, cucumber, radish, pickled red onion and feta cheese and a vegetarian white sweet potato with garlic yogurt, kalamata olives, walnuts, pickled red onion, pea shoots and mizithra cheese, which is similar to ricotta. The restaurant's pork and chicken options will also be available. A post shared by Souvla (@souvlasf) on Sep 13, 2017 at 8:07am PDT The restaurant's popular "Greek Fries" will also be on offer. The spuds are tossed in olive oil, lemon juice, parsley and mizithra cheese and can be supplemented with a side of harissa-mint-garlic or "Granch," a Greek yogurt equivalent of ranch dressing. Souvla is one of the most ordered from restaurants in San Francisco via the Caviar app, which early on paired with restaurants that didn't traditionally offer delivery, Souvla included. The Souvla pop-up will operate Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for dinner via Caviar. Delivery will be available to about 70th Street in Manhattan, according to Caviar, which will be offering free delivery for the duration of Souvla's stay in NYC. Glen Scotia launches GTR single cask Glen Scotia Distillery, Campbeltown, is set to launch a limited edition Glen Scotia Single Cask release in partnership with World Duty Free and Edinburgh Airport. Just 204 bottles of the 26-year-old Glen Scotia Single Cask No. 857 will be available at the World of Whiskies store in Edinburgh Airport. The Glen Scotia Single Cask is also the Campeltown distillerys first release to be introduced at a UK airport. Glen Scotias partnership with Edinburgh Airport and World Duty Free who own and operate the specialist World of Whiskies stores, follows successful sales of parent company Loch Lomond Groups Loch Lomond Global Travel Retail (GTR) Scotch whisky range at World of Whiskies stores. Claire Branagan, non-beauty trading manager, World Duty Free at Edinburgh Airport, says: It is very exciting to be offering this limited edition Glen Scotia Single Cask No. 857 bottling to our World of Whiskies customers at Edinburgh Airport, especially as this is the first time the brand has been made available at a UK airport. With just 204 bottles available, the Glen Scotia Single Cask No. 857 offers a wonderful opportunity to acquire a slice of Campbeltowns whisky heritage. Andre de Almeida, managing director of Global Travel Retail at Loch Lomond Group, says: Were pleased to have created the Glen Scotia Single Cask No. 857 in partnership with Edinburgh Airport and World Duty Free. It is a true showcase of the distinctive character and craftsmanship offered by our Glen Scotia distillery in Campbeltown, one of Scotlands five Scotch whisky producing regions. Single cask bottlings are very special and are only undertaken with select partners. Edinburgh Airport and World Duty Free now have something unique to offer to their customers and I hope travelers visiting Scotland will enjoy discovering both our Glen Scotia Single Cask Scotch whisky and the maritime influence of Campbeltown. Richard Townsend, Retail & Property director for Edinburgh Airport, says: Whisky is just one of the many things that Scotland is famous for and we are delighted to be able to offer our passengers this exclusive bottle of what is our national drink. With so many people passing through Scotlands busiest airport, we are excited that visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to buy a unique expression of this fantastic single malt Scotch whisky. 17 October 2017 - Sam Coyne The Drinks Report, news editor Carrie L. Byington, senior vice president of the Texas A&M Health Science Center, was announced Monday as one of 70 new members invited to join the National Academy of Medicine. Byington, who also serves as dean of the A&M College of Medicine and vice chancellor for health services for the Texas A&M University System, said she is "honored and humbled" by her selection. "It is a privilege to serve the Academy, and I look forward to collaborating with leading medical professionals in the country to improve the health of our nation," she said in a statement. A&M System Chancellor John Sharp praised Byington's election to the academy as a confirmation of "what we knew when she was chosen to lead our wide-ranging health services." "Dr. Byington is that rare individual who is an expert in her field, a compassionate medical practitioner and a visionary leader," he said. The National Academy of Medicine, which is considered among the most prestigious honors in the field, has 1,812 active members. New members are elected from among a pool of candidates who have been nominated for contributions to the advancement of the medical sciences, health care and public health. An astonishing 81,572 hunting trophies from African Bush Elephants were exported from Africa in this time including skin pieces, tusks, feet and ivory carvings. The countries of South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Cameroon and Gabon all allow sport hunting despite a colossal rate of decline in their elephant populations Tanzanias, for example, had dropped by 60 percent from 2009 to 2014. Green monkey Its not just elephants that are suffering. In the same 14-year time frame 17,000 African lions were killed for sport resulting in their pelts, heads and bones exported for hunting trophies. Other mammals suffering the same fate include the white rhinoceros (more than 4,000), the common tsessebe (2,115), and cheetah (nearly 1,400). With the African economy bolstered significantly by the trade in wild animals, the threat to both endangered species and those teetering on the brink is very real. The African Green Monkey is the most exported live mammal from Africa 5,242 over the 14 years and the African Lion next on the list at 1,954 739 of these going to zoos. With such a high bounty on their heads, and commercial gain the top reason for export, its little surprise that these animals are facing such pressures. Grim reading In 2015, South Africa exported nearly $94 billion USD worth of total goods, with animal products and living animals totaling $1.4 billion and animal pelts totaling $414 million. The country exported some 1,611 antelope in the years between 2001 and 2015 making these South Africas most exported live animal (excluding animals used for medical and scientific purposes), followed closely by the African lion (1,592). The findings make grim reading for any animal lover. Philip Muruthi, Vice President of Species Protection at the African Wildlife Foundation says: "Unfortunately the number of species moving to vulnerable and endangered to critically endangered is on the increase. The rapid level of killing not only endangers the species but also several roles it plays in the ecosystem. Exacerbating the illegal trade in animals In June 2017, the South African Government announced it would allow 800 skeletons of lions bred in captivity to be legally exported out of the country a move which could further exacerbate the illegal trade in animals. This move makes it harder to police which animals are legally exported from those which are illegally poached and will, many believe, drive the demand for wealthy sponsors to subsidise illegal poaching to meet a demand for lion and tiger products. Through its findings the African Wildlife Foundation noted discrepancies between the numbers of reported live animals logged by African nations and the number received by the recipient countries, making it difficult to know how high the true figures really are. Laura Dzwonczyk, a member of the creative team at the African Wildlife Foundation, said: "We found that South Africa reports exporting 10,000+ animals between 2001 and 2015, while Tanzania reports 6,000+ animals within that same time. Yet collectively, importers are reporting receiving double to triple the amounts of live animals than African countries are reporting sending them. Russia and the USA In 2015 the African Wildlife Foundation findings recorded the number of reportedly received animals was approaching twice as many as the number of animals shipped. What is certain is the legal trade in animals, both alive and dead is putting extraordinary pressures on many vulnerable species. In terms of importers, Russia tops the charts importing mainly African Green Monkey, Velvet Monkey and Cheetah. The United States is next, importing predominantly Crab-Eating Macaques, Fennec Fox, and Olive Baboon. Namibia, Thailand and China all come high in the rankings on the list of importers of endangered species. The Foundation states: The threatened species of wildlife in Africa need your help. At the African Wildlife Foundation, we believe protecting African wildlife means empowering local communities and people through jobs, education, and conservation training. "Many species across Africa face extinction, and their survival depends on bridging the gap between mankind and the lions, elephants, and rhinos we share the earth with." This Author Laura Briggs is a regular contributor to the Ecologist. Follow her at @WordsbyBriggs. You can follow more about the African Wildlife Foundation on their website. The report points out that the complexity of health impacts in food systems is real and challenging, but "cannot be an excuse for inaction," and that a truly healthy food system will take as its starting point a preventative, precautionary approach, triggering a shift from a system that results in harm to a system that is based on prevention and health promotion. The report recognises that exposure to pesticides, including Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)2 3 4 - chemicals that interfere with hormonal systems and which are ubiquitous in food systems - has been clearly linked to a number of chronic long-term health effects including neurotoxic impacts, developmental impacts, as well as increased rates of cancers. The report points out that exposure to such harmful chemicals in existing food systems poses one of the greatest challenges for public health, as the risks of long-term exposure to pesticides clearly extend beyond the farm. Health scandals The IPES-FOOD report also highlights exposure to other airborne substances used in conventional farming eg. nitrate and phosphorus pollution arising from chemical fertilizer use and feedlot runoff which the report states has been identified as a major health risk in agricultural areas and beyond. The fact that the report found that many of the severest health conditions afflicting populations around the world - from respiratory diseases to a range of cancers - are linked to industrial food and farming practices, including chemical-intensive agriculture, comes as no surprise to those of us in the direct firing line from living near to regularly sprayed crops. Rural residents have long reported - for many decades - the health damage occurring in their communities as a result of the existing chemical reliant conventional farming system. Whilst operators will be in filtered cabs and/or have personal protective equipment when using pesticides, rural residents and communities around the world have no protection at all. The fact the chemical poisoning of innocent rural communities was ever permitted in the first place - let alone to continue for over three quarters of a century with no action - is without a doubt one of the biggest public health scandals of any time. Untested, unregulated The agricultural sector is by far and away the largest user of pesticides, and in the UK alone approximately 80 percent of pesticides used each year is related to agricultural use. The latest UK Government statistics show that in 2014 the total area treated with pesticides on agricultural and horticultural crops was 80,107,993 hectares, with the total weight applied being 17,757,242 kg.5 This does not include chemical fertilisers and all the other agro chemicals used in conventional farming. The reality of this widespread pesticide use on crops has never been properly assessed in any policy either here in the UK or indeed in any country around the world. Professor Ian Boyd, a key scientific advisor to the UK Government, has in recent weeks issued a damning assessment of the regulatory approach used around the world for pesticides sprayed on crops saying that it ignored the impacts of "dosing whole landscapes", and thus the assumption by regulators globally that it is safe to use pesticides at industrial scales across landscapes "is false" and must change. The existing chemical conventional farming system has been an untested, unregulated, and unlawful experiment with human health and the environment for which untold damage has already taken place, as it has resulted in thousands of rural residents suffering devastating, even fatal, consequences on their health and lives. Power relations The IPES-Food report finds that action to date has tended to focus only on mitigating specific environmental outcomes of agriculture (e.g., restricting the use of specific pesticides with proven harmful impacts on pollinators) without considering a more fundamental redesign, and without addressing the central role of industrial food and farming systems in driving environmental degradation and disrupting ecosystems.6 The report also finds that "as the industrial model is further entrenched, a narrow group of actors is able to exercise ever greater control over data provision and scientific research priorities, as well as continuing to shape the narratives and solutions." The report recognises that this generates "highly unequal power relations" which help to obscure the real social, health and environmental fallout of industrial food systems, leaving "the root causes of poor health unaddressed" and reinforcing "existing social-health inequalities premised on further industrialization." The report found that the existing unequal power relations means that those affected populations without power or voice are often exposed to the greatest health risks in food systems, meaning that these impacts often go unseen, undocumented and unaddressed, and that those most affected by the health impacts in food systems have become increasingly marginalized and that "this in turn makes people less attuned to the real costs of their food." Wildlife, pollinators There is no better example of the unequal power relations than what is currently happening in the UK. It has been reported that the new DEFRA Secretary, Michael Gove, is in listening mode prior to the development of the UK agricultural bill and policy post BREXIT. However, he has not met and listened to the most important voices to be heard - that being rural residents and communities who are the ones directly affected from the agricultural activities in the areas where we live and breathe. This is despite the fact that in the last few months he has continued to meet with and listen to farmers, landowners, NGOs, business and industry interests including the National Farmers Union, amongst others. The IPES-FOOD report on the damage to human health from existing industrial and chemical-intensive conventional food and farming systems follows on from a scathing report on agricultural pesticides in March by the UN Report of the Special Rapporteur on the right to food. This concluded that the agro-chemical industry has continued to falsely maintain that damage will be caused to agriculture and food production if pesticides are not used. The UN report concluded that moving away from pesticide-reliant industrial agriculture to non-chemical farming methods should now be a political priority in all countries globally. The new post Brexit UK agricultural bill provides a real opportunity for the UK to adopt such a non-chemical farming policy in order to no longer rely on toxic chemicals in the production of our food. This would then protect not only the health of residents and other members of the public, but also the environment, wildlife, pollinators, other species, and biodiversity. The origins of traditional farming methods did not include dependence on chemical inputs for mass production. Such poisons should never have had any place in the air we breathe, food we eat, and environment we live in. This Author Georgina Downs is a journalist and campaigner. She has lived next to regularly sprayed crop fields for more than 33 years and runs the UK Pesticides Campaign which specifically represents rural residents affected by pesticides sprayed in the locality of residents' homes, as well as schools, playgrounds, amongst other areas. To sign Georgina's petition to the Prime Minister Theresa May, and DEFRA Secretary Michael Gove, to ban all crop spraying of poisonous pesticides near residents' homes, schools, and playgrounds, visit this website. References: 1. The IPES-Food report concludes that reconnecting people with the realities of the food they eat - and bringing the true cost of our food systems to light - is essential to unlock the food-health nexus. The report identifies five key leverage points for building healthier food systems: i) promoting food systems thinking at all levels; ii) reasserting scientific integrity and research as a public good; iii) bringing the positive impacts of alternative food systems to light; iv) adopting the precautionary principle (as the report concluded that there is a clear need to call upon the precautionary principle and requiring policy makers to weigh the collective evidence on risk factors and act accordingly- to protect public health); and, v) building integrated food policies under participatory governance. 2. Regarding EDC's, the report states, "These chemicals are found in the pesticides used in conventionally grown crops; in the hormones used in meat, poultry, and dairy production; in the inside lining of canned foods and some plastic containers; in compounds used as food preservatives; and even in non-stick cookware (Wielogorska et al., 2015)...A substantial and growing body of evidence is converging upon the conclusion that exposure to EDCs contributes to increased chronic disease burdens (Gore et al., 2015; WHO/UNEP, 2013)." 3. The report points out that both paternal and maternal exposure to EDCs in pesticides have been associated with adverse reproductive effects, including miscarriage, preterm birth, stillbirth, neonatal death, and foetal distress. 4. The report found that the combined EU and US losses from exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals amount to $557 billion per year. It has been estimated that total population exposure to EDCs causes an annual health cost of $217 billion in the EU (equivalent to 1.28% of EU Gross Domestic Product); and $340 billion in the US, or 2.33% of GDP; and the annual US EDC-related health costs incurred through pesticide exposure alone has been estimated at $42 billion. Organophosphate pesticides were estimated to produce the costliest outcomes in terms of EDC exposure in the EU ($121 billion per annum). 5. As informed by the Government's Pesticide Usage Survey Group. 6. The report states, "Cheap food has even been traded off against environmental contamination; agro-chemical firms have argued against restrictions on pesticide use on the grounds that it will push up production costs and ultimately food prices. In wealthier countries, the share of income spent on food has plummeted, and the expectation of cheap food has become highly embedded further locking in the industrial low-cost model, despite its spiralling health and environmental impacts." The new study raises the alarm over fast-increasing emissions of some of these very short-lived chemicals in East Asia, and shows how they can be carried up into the stratosphere and deplete the ozone layer. Emissions of ozone-depleting chemicals in places like China are especially damaging because of cold-air surges in East Asia that can quickly carry industrial pollution into the tropics. It is here that air is most likely to be uplifted into the stratosphere. This means the chemicals can reach the ozone layer before they are degraded and while they can still cause damage. 60 per cent more abundant One of the new threats is dichloromethane - a substance with uses varying from paint stripping to agricultural fumigation and the production of pharmaceuticals. The amount of this substance in the atmosphere decreased in the 1990s and early 2000s, but over the past decade dichloromethane has become around 60 per cent more abundant. Dr Oram said: "This was a major surprise to the scientific community and we were keen to discover the cause of this sudden increase. "We expected that the new emissions could be coming from the developing world, where industrialisation has been increasing rapidly. "Our estimates suggest that China may be responsible for around 50-60 per cent of current global emissions [of dichloromethane], with other Asian countries, including India, likely to be significant emitters as well." China the largest producer of PVC The team set out to measure air pollution in East Asia to find out where the increase in dichloromethane was coming from and if it could affect the ozone layer. The scientists collected air samples on the ground in Malaysia and Taiwan, in the region of the South China Sea, between 2012 and 2014, and shipped them back to the UK for analysis. They routinely monitor around 50 ozone-depleting chemicals in the atmosphere, some of which are now in decline as a direct consequence of the Montreal Protocol. Dichloromethane was found in large amounts, and so was dichloroethane, an ozone-depleting substance used to make PVC. China is the largest producer of PVC, which is used in many construction materials, and its production in the country has increased rapidly in the past couple of decades. But the rise in dichloroethane emissions was unexpected and surprising because the chemical is both a "valuable commodity" and "highly toxic", said Dr Oram. "One would expect that care would be taken not to release dichloroethane into the atmosphere." Highlighting a gap Data collected from a passenger aircraft that flew over Southeast Asia between December 2012 and January 2014 showed that the substances weren't only present at ground level. Dr Oram said: "We found that elevated concentrations of these same chemicals were present at altitudes of 12 km over tropical regions, many thousands of kilometres away from their likely source, and in a region where air is known to be transferred into the stratosphere." If the chemicals that were now discovered in unexpectedly large amounts can reach the ozone layer in significant quantities, they can cause damage. "We are highlighting a gap in the Montreal Protocol that may need to be addressed in the future, particularly if atmospheric concentrations continue to rise," he added. 'A growing threat to the ozone layer from short-lived anthropogenic chlorocarbons' is published in the EGU open access journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics on October 12, 2017. The international team involved scientists from the UK, Germany, Taiwan and Malaysia. The research was funded by the UK Natural Environment Research Council, the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education (HiCoE Grant IOES-2014) and the Taiwan EPA and MOST. The team used data from the IAGOS CARIBIC project, which is supported by the German Ministry of Education and Science and by Lufthansa, and the measurements were part-funded by the European FP7 programme. This Author Brendan Montague is Acting Editor of The Ecologist. He tweets at @EcoMontague. You have a character that goes through the scrutiny of being sexualised , and then an audience that does the same thing. News, analysis, and archives on the grassroots in Haiti. Nouvel, analiz, ak achiv sou baz yo an AYITI. Noticias, analisis y archivos sobre el pueblo de Haiti. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Two Roads Brewing Company is building a second brewery that could turn even the staunchest wine connoisseur into a beer lover. The Stratford craft beer behemoth broke ground Thursday on a $12 million, 25,000 sq. ft. barrel-aging facility dubbed "Area Two." The new site is being built on 2.5 acres of land adjoining the existing brewery, and is expected to open in the fall of 2018. Area Two will focus exclusively on rare sour and barrel-aged beers, fruity styles that are popular in Europe and tend to be higher in alcohol content. Many of the recipes require wild yeast, which cannot be used in the main facility due to the potential for contamination. Some of the Area Two brews will spend upwards of two-and-a-half years in wooden barrels sourced from wineries and distilleries, transforming into "something more wine-like than what we're used to," Two Roads Master Brewer Phil Markowski said. RELATED: New lighting system, campus expansion part of Two Roads' growth Like wine, these beers are often made with fruit. Two Roads already has a small orchard on the orchard, growing sour cherries, black currants, elderberries and raspberries, with plans to expand and produce peaches, gooseberries and other fruits. "We'll mix it up," Markowski said of the different flavor combinations in store for Area Two. With hundreds of barrels aging beer in excess of two years, Markowski said, the new facility will look more like a winery than a traditional brewery. Visitors can expect to see materials common in winemaking, like concrete tanks and foudres, casks used for maturing and storing wine. "Part Disney World, part science lab," is how Neil Hauck describes plans for Area Two. His Darien-based firm, Neil Hauck Architects, is designing the facility Petra Construction Corp., based in North Haven, will build it. RELATED: Two Roads opens tap room at Bradley International Airport According to Hauck, people will enter the building through a vestibule on the second floor and then descend into the 120-person tasting room, while taking in the surrounding brewery. Visitors can sip on their beers on the deck overlooking the property's wetlands, which Two Roads plans to beautify to create a park-like atmosphere. "This is going to be a showcase," CEO Brad Hittle said. He and his co-founders Markowski, CFO Peter Doering, and CCO Clem Pellani acknowledged Stratford officials like Mayor John Harkins and State Rep. Laura Hoydick for their work in helping Two Roads get its start five years ago. Since its inception, the brewery has grown to produce the equivalent of two million cases of beer and is considered a Top 40 brewery in the U.S, Hittle said. And now, with a second facility in the works, Two Roads is being taken to another level. According to Pellani, beers brewed in Area Two will allow Two Roads to distribute to areas they don't normally reach, because the barrel-aged beers travel well. "I am incredibly excited for this," Pellani said. "It's a nice complement, to give the people of Connecticut a slightly different experience" alongside what the traditional brewery offers. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate NORWALK American flags lining the walkway fluttered in the crisp autumn air as Angelly Surie pushed a stroller into the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum on Tuesday morning. She and her boyfriend, Yancarlos Sanchez, woke up at 6 a.m. in New London to get the kids to school before preparing their 5-week-old son, Messiah Sanchez, for the drive to Norwalk. Prepared for traffic, they arrived at the mansion about an hour early and took a seat at one of a group of tables covered in red and blue tablecloths as U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., and local media mingled with the prospective citizens. They were gathered for the third naturalization ceremony to take place in Norwalk. Roughly 70,000 people a year are naturalized to become American citizens, according to the Department of Homeland Security. To become an American, prospective citizens must first determine whether they are eligible and fill out an application with a $725 fee. Applicants who make it to the next step can take the interview, which consists of oral questions, an English test and a test on U.S. history and government. Those who trickled in the doors of the mansion Tuesday made it through that process and were arriving to make their oath to the United States. Surie, who moved to Connecticut from the Dominican Republic 11 years ago, learned the names of local political leaders, including Himes, in preparation for her naturalization interview. For about a month, Sanchez had quizzed Surie with flashcards off a citizenship test app for hours every other night while she was on maternity leave. Sometimes the kids would be there, and Id quiz them too, Sanchez said with a laugh as they got up with the crowd to take a seat in the rotunda. There, Nardalyn Bramwell, who moved from Jamaica 16 years ago, was already seated. She came here because she followed her heart, said her friend, Will Appiah, with a big smile. Bramwell laughed. I came because my husband and my daughter were here, she said. You know, when your baby is in another country, your heart is there also. A few rows in front of them sat Roland Olah with his wife, Judit Olahne Dulcz, and their daughter, Boglarka Olah. The Fairfield residents had moved from Hungary 11 years ago after Roland Olah won the green card lottery (meant to promote diversity, the lottery is available to citizens of certain countries with low immigration rates). For Olah, a chef, it was the opportunity of a lifetime he was able to commute to New York to work for Daniel Boulud, owner of a Michelin-star restaurant. That was my dream, he said. As they waited for the ceremony to begin, the people in the room sat quietly. The organizers and speakers in the lobby were more at ease chatter and laughter could be heard. Mayor Harry Rilling stood at the threshold with his wife, Lucia Rilling, and looked out at the crowd. Its exciting for us, too, he said. Because it shows were a welcoming country, were a diverse country, and we embrace that diversity. Then, the ceremony began. The color guard from Brien McMahon High School marched in, and junior Isabella Bardos sang the national anthem. Maribel Merengueli-Wright, an immigration services officer, read a list of the countries the people being naturalized had moved from: Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Ghana, Honduras, Hungary, Israel, Jamaica, Lithuania, Mexico, Moldova, Morocco, the Philippines, Russia, South Africa and Trinidad and Tobago. William Garfinkle, a judge for the District of Connecticut, led the group through the oath of allegiance. Participants held their right hands in the air as they swore their support for the U.S. Appiah documented the moment with his cellphone, and Surie cradled her newborn son in her free arm. Congratulations, youre now citizens, Garfinkle said. Boglarka Olah gave Dulcz a high-five. Rilling, state Sen. Bob Duff, D-Norwalk, and Lockwood Trustee Haroldo Williams welcomed the Americans and then, one by one, each of the new citizens were called up to receive their certificates, shake a row of hands and pick up an American flag and a gift bag hand-sewn by Lisa Wilson Grant on behalf of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Afterward, many in the crowd waved their new flags, then began to disperse, snapping photographs on their way out. The Olahs quickly posed for a picture with local politicians. Its a happy moment. I never believed we could become citizens here, Dulcz said. We came with only three suitcases, she said as her daughter began to dance in the mostly emptied rotunda of the mansion, itself built by immigrants during the Civil War. But more than for herself, Dulcz was happy for her little girl, a sixth-grade swimmer who has been living in the U.S. since she was 2 years old. Most important, my daughter has more opportunities here, she said as Boglarka Olah performed a pirouette, tracing a circle in the air above her uplifted face with her new American flag. rschuetz@hearstmediact.com; @raschuetz This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate NORWALK The citys four mayoral candidates will stake their ground on issues facing the business community during a debate before The Greater Norwalk Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 1. Democrat Harry Rilling, Republican Andrew Conroy, petitioning Democrat Bruce Morris and petitioning unaffiliated candidate Lisa Brinton are expected to participate in the debate Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 8-9:30 a.m., at The Norwalk Inn & Conference Center, 99 East Ave. Patriot Bank is sponsoring the debate. Tom Appleby, formerly of News 12 Connecticut, will moderate. Questions will come from the business community and largely focus on business issues, said Brian Griffin, Chamber of Commerce president and CEO. With four candidates on the ballot, there seems to be a lot of interest in the race this year, certainly in the business community, Griffin said. They want to understand the respective visions for the city in regards to economic development and a business-friendly environment. And those in East and South Norwalk want to hear the candidates perspective on the Walk Bridge project that will affect many businesses and residents. Parking, taxes, housing and infrastructure are among the other concerns that likely will be raised and addressed at the debate, according to Griffin. The chamber has asked its members to submit questions, which will be asked of the candidates Appleby. Ideally, the questions will be ones that can be answered by all candidates, according to the event program. As of Tuesday afternoon, seats remained available. The cost per seat is $30 for chamber members. The mayoral and other candidates will assemble at least twice before the chamber debate Nov. 1. On Wednesday, Oct. 18, the East Norwalk Improvement Association, East Norwalk Business Association and Eastern Norwalk Neighborhood Association will co-sponsor a Meet the Candidates forum at Marvin Senior Housing, 60 Gregory Boulevard. The forum is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. The forum will be an opportunity for voters to hear directly from the candidates on why theyre running and what they intend to do if they win in November, said ENBA president and founder Winthrop Baum. On Thursday, Oct. 19, The Greater Norwalk Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will host a Norwalk Mayoral Debate, from 7-9 p.m., at SONO Community Center at 98 South Main St. in South Norwalk. The public is invited to hear the four mayoral candidates address issues facing the Hispanic/Latino Community. The League of Women Voters of Norwalk will co-sponsor three forums, beginning Oct. 23 and concluding Oct. 30. The leagues at-large council candidates forum is set for Monday, Oct. 23, from 7-8:45 p.m. The in-district council candidates forum will follow from 9-9:45 p.m., also at City Hall, 125 East Ave. Board of Education candidates will have their opportunity Sunday, Oct. 29, from 7-8:30 p.m., in the Community Room of City Hall. The leagues mayoral candidates forum will take place Monday, Oct. 30, from 7-8:30 p.m., in the Concert Hall of City Hall. An agreement between the city of Grand Island and Hall County for snow removal services may be finalized if approved by the Hall County Board of Supervisors at its meeting Tuesday morning. The proposed agreement, listed in the Oct. 10 Grand island City Council meeting agenda packet, consists of three components: Exchanging snow removal and ice control services on rural cross-section roadways in and around Grand Island. Hall County providing additional equipment and operators to the city for residential area snow removal and, if necessary, arterial roadway snow removal. Exchanging city mowing services for county snow removal and ice control services in lieu of cash payment. The agreement was approved by the Grand Island City Council Oct. 10 as part of the consent agenda. All items in the consent agenda are approved with a single yes or no vote unless an specific item is pulled for discussion. Hall County Public Works Director/Surveyor Casey Sherlock said the city would reimburse Hall County for its time. In addition, he said the city has annexed partial miles in Hall County, which has resulted in roads that go in and out of Hall County. Logistically trying to plow just the countys part, driving past the citys part and plowing the countys part again takes up more time than it does to just plow straight through, Sherlock said. It (the agreement) will help to optimize both operations for the county and the city. It will help the county get connected to other county roads by going through roads that appear to be county in nature but are within the city limits. In her agenda memo to the Grand Island City Council for its Oct. 10 meeting, Streets Superintendent Shannon Callahan writes: There will be an upfront cost of approximately $7,400 for these route changes, but the City will benefit by receiving a higher level of snow removal service from the Streets Division staff on higher volume roadways since the total snow route mileage will be less and the focus can remain on main arterials. In an interview with The Independent last week, Callahan added: Hall County has agreed, if approved, to take on some extra snow removal. (This includes) some of our snow routes, but more rural routes with slower traffic volumes (and) two-lane roadways in exchange for $500 a mile. Callahan said the city of Grand Island will reimburse Hall County for their services at a combined hourly rate comprised of the FEMA equipment hourly rental rate, plus actual hourly operator costs. This agreement is going to help both Hall County and the city of Grand Island get snow removal done more efficiently, Sherlock said. The county board will also discuss and consider taking action on a water cooler for the Veterans Services Office. A proposal was brought forward at the Oct. 3 meeting that called for the labor, material and equipment to complete the installation of a water cooler in the annex entry way of the office for a total of $4,270. The cost did not include electrical. The vote was delayed to allow more options to be brought forward before the county board. (Hall County Facilities Director) Doone (Humphrey) will be bringing a few different options forward, Supervisor Jane Richardson, who chairs the countys facilities committee, said. He was going to visit with (Veterans Services Coordinator) Don (Shuda) last week and see what he was thinking. He will bring those options to the board for discussion. Also Tuesday, the county board will discuss and consider taking action on the 2017-18 rental contract with Central Nebraska Bobcat for a skid-steer loader. Richardson said the contract is the same as last year and totals $3,800. We always rent a skid steer for a year and use it wherever it is needed, she said. Lots of times it is at the park, or it might be to move snow on campus. It is just an annual rental we do. For the record In other action, the county board will: Discuss and consider approving a final plat and resolution for the Valhalla Subdivision. Discuss and consider approving a training salary for the Hall County election commissioner. Consider approving a custodial contract addendum for the addition of the Federal Building and the Plaza Building. The Hall County Board of Supervisors meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the Hall County Administration Building. Eagles rally, then get sloppy in 4th quarter as undefeated hopes end Several observations from the Eagles' Monday night game against the Washington Commanders. The Madison County Sheriffs Office would like to alert the public to a telephone scam which has recently been reported in our area. A caller identifying himself as a member of the sheriffs office is calling citizens and telling them they have failed to report for jury duty. The caller continues by stating a judge has issued a fine and bench warrant for their arrest. Next, the caller tells the person they must pay a large fine immediately or else they will be arrested. They are then instructed to obtain a cashiers check in order to pay the bogus fine. This scam is rather elaborate. The caller may provide a name of an actual deputy sheriff, or the name of an actual judge as being involved in the matter. A phone number is provided for call back, and if one were to call the number, it would appear on face value to be a valid phone number. It has a voice prompter which sounds official and gives further direction to the caller. Should you field such a phone call remember IT IS A SCAM. The Madison County Sheriffs Office nor any other police agency will call a citizen on the telephone demanding payment. If you receive a similar call in the future remember, do not provide personal information over the telephone. Hang up, and call the Madison County Sheriffs Office, or your local police department. If you have a question about jury duty in Madison County, Illinois, or if you need to speak with a Madison County Sheriffs Deputy you can call both organizations at the below listed numbers. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 5 1 of 5 Diane Rasplica Jones For The Intelligencer Show More Show Less 2 of 5 Diane Rasplica Jones For The Intelligencer Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 For The Intelligencer Show More Show Less 5 of 5 The Glen Carbon Historical Museum hosted Yanda Cabin Day on Saturday. There were demonstrations of blacksmithing, corn grinding, woodworking and needlework. The Yanda Cabin is located at 148 South Main St. in Glen Carbon and is the oldest building in the village. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin EDITORIAL (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 08:10 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24c7f59 4 Editorial #Editorial,journalistic,#journalists,journalism,religion,religious-issue Free To many journalists, it seems like counterculture to be advocating for more religion components in our daily staple of news. They argue that there is already too much talk in society about religion, a private domain, and that the media should be reporting less of it. Besides, they say, there are enough publications or media outlets, run by faith-based groups, reporting on religion. The mainstream (secular) media should be reporting less to help reduce friction between religious communities now found in many societies, and not just Indonesia, they argue. Some even believe in the infamous expression that religion is the opium of the masses. The conference on religion journalism Reporting Religion in Asia, which gets under way in Jakarta on Tuesday, will discuss the merits of more reporting on religion in our mainstream media. This is a gathering of journalists and scholars of journalism from Indonesia, Asia and beyond, sharing experiences in best practices in the reporting of religion, courtesy of the International Association of Religion Journalists (IARJ), the Union of Journalists for Diversity (Sejuk Indonesia) and Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN). The sentiments among some participants, that many are already reporting on religion, are that there should be more and not less religious components in media reports. With religion increasingly taking center stage in the political and economic lives in many societies, the secular media with a far wider reach than faith-based media would do a great service to inform this phenomenon to society. They should embrace rather than avoid religion to do a better job in reporting. Admittedly, when it comes to reporting religion, the media and journalists generally fall short of the standard of good journalism that they apply in reporting other issues. Many struggle to shed their prejudices and allow them and the stereotyping of others to influence their reports. Many of the friction and tension between religious communities found in many parts of the world today have been partly if not mostly fanned by poor media reporting; some deliberate as part of their editorial agenda, but some out of ignorance and sheer incompetence. When they do this, the media have become part of the problem when they could be a central part of the solution. For many journalists, reporting on religion becomes both a professional and personal challenge, perhaps more so than any other subject because of the nature of the subject. But if we agree that there should be more religion rather than less in our news, then we have to make sure that the media and their journalists take religion more seriously. The media could address this problem by mainstreaming religion into their daily reporting, by recognizing their failings and shortcomings and by providing the necessary resources, meaning more personnel and more training to improve their overall reporting. Whatever faith the journalists follow or even if they profess to have no faith at all, they still owe it to their profession and society to do a good job in reporting on religion. That means all and every religion and faith that exist in their societies. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin BKPM (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta, Indonesia Mon, October 16, 2017 Bali might be Indonesias best known tourist destination. The archipelagic country, however, still boasts numerous other tourist destinations, across North and West Sumatra as well as East and Central Java and elsewhere, popular among travelers. The potential of these emerging tourist destinations, unfortunately, still remains untapped by investors, who have mainly focused on Bali so far. This is why Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) chairman Thomas Lembong is currently inviting foreign and domestic investors alike to invest in the tourist sector, particularly in destinations other than Bali which still have great potential to be developed. He referred to these areas as the new Balis of Indonesia, or the next big tourism hubs in Indonesia besides Bali. Investors investing in Balis tourism 10 years ago by supporting the islands hotels, resorts and villas, must have enjoyed the benefits of the areas already-developed tourist ecosystem by now. Therefore, it is time now to invest in the new Balis of Indonesia, Thomas said on Oct. 9. New and potential tourist attractions designated by the government to be Indonesias top 10 priority destinations for development include Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Kelayang Cape in Bangka Belitung, Lesung Cape in Banten, Thousand Islands in Jakarta, Borobudur in Central Java, the Bromo Tengger Semeru mountains in East Java, as well as two integrated tourist areas in West Sumatra, namely Mandeh Beach and Mount Padang. To lure investors to channel their funds into these destinations, Thomas will highlight the governments priority destinations mentioned above in the upcoming Regional Investment Forum 2017 (RIF 2017), which will be organized in Padang, West Sumatra, from Oct. 15 to 17. Initiated by the BKPM in cooperation with the Tourism Ministry, Bank Indonesia and the West Sumatra provincial administration, RIF 2017 seeks to support President Joko Jokowi Widodos administration in its efforts to develop tourism. The administration has an ambitious target of attracting 20 million foreign tourist arrivals to Indonesia per year, with 275 million domestic tourist visits per year. Furthermore, the sector is expected to generate up to Rp 260 trillion in foreign exchange earnings. The forum will also be an effective platform to place these destinations in foreign investors spotlight: to date, approximately 114 investors from Australia, China, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States have confirmed their participation in the event. To make the forum more fruitful, around 66 meetings have been scheduled among investors, local government representatives and entrepreneurs to intensively explore investment opportunities in tourism. According to Tourism Minister Arief Yahya, participating investors could invest their capital to build facilities in the priority tourist destinations offered in the forum to help boost foreign and domestic tourist arrivals in Indonesia. Arief emphasized that to meet the needs of tourists for proper infrastructure and facilities, the government needed to partner with the business community to achieve attractive, amenable and accessible tourism in Indonesia. Speaking about facilities, West Sumatra Governor Irwan Prayitno also took time to promote his province, explaining that Padang the provinces capital had actually served as an international trading port since the 16th century. Therefore, West Sumatra is open wide for business and investment. The beauties of Mount Padang and Mandeh Beach as well as the delicacy of Padang cuisine is ready to welcome foreign and domestic investors, he said. The minister and the governor are scheduled to speak at the forum. Among high-profile government officials also scheduled to attend the forum are Energy and Mineral Resources Deputy Minister Arcandra Tahar and Bank Indonesia Senior Deputy Governor Mirza Adityaswara. Furthermore, Indonesian ambassadors to the United Arab Emirates, Sweden, Belgium, Malaysia and Mexico are also scheduled to attend the forum. For more information on tourist destinations offered during the forum as well as a detailed rundown of its schedule, visit the website regionalinvestmentforum.com. Lucrative sector As a whole, Indonesias tourism is a promising industry. Within the first half of 2017, the tourist sector has grown by more than 35 percent compared to the same period last year. It certainly shows that this sector is growing very well, Thomas said. Based on BKPM data, investment realization in tourism between the period of 2010 and 2016 had increased by an average of 20 percent per year. Within the same period, the sector absorbed 221,000 workers into the workforce. Within the first half of 2017, meanwhile, investment realization in tourism amounted to Rp 12.4 trillion (US$929.14 million), recording a growth of 37 percent year-on-year. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin BNI Life (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta, Indonesia Wed, October 18, 2017 Do you remember how your mother would always prepare your food when you were young? How she would always have lunch and snacks ready so you wouldnt go about your daily activities on an empty stomach? Having the right amounts of nutrition is important to give you the energy to go about your day. Just as how your mother would often help you prepare for the day when you were a child, as an adult you are similarly required to ensure that you prepare financially for a healthy future. A desire to help customers prepare is at the core of BNI Life a leading insurance firm as it helps them in facing and preparing for the future. This is the central message of BNI Life's new #SiapkanBekalnya (Prepare Your Future) campaign for helping Indonesians prepare and plan for their futures through the best in customer service. "Through this campaign, BNI Life wants to try to raise awareness among Indonesian families, especially young families, on the importance of preparing for their futures, by first starting off with getting to know risks in life, and by preparing, planning and protecting family finances as early in life as possible," said Geger Maulana, acting president director of BNI Life. As part of the campaign, BNI Life's Preparing Healthy Advice event, held during Car Free Day in Jakarta several weeks ago, is among ways BNI Life is approaching its customers and Indonesian families. The event included educational health activities, including a fun walk, fun dance and medical check-ups carried out in partnership with Ramsay Bintaro Hospital, mammographies done in collaboration with the Indonesian Cancer Foundation and educational sessions on insurance services. Jakarta wasn't the only place where BNI Life reached out to families. It also held events in six cities located in Bandung, Surabaya, Semarang, Malang, Yogyakarta and Palembang in collaborate with Hermina Hospitals . Through this campaign, BNI Life has prepared a number of insurance products that can help fulfill the needs of society regardless of social status, with affordable investment rates and premiums starting as low as Rp 100,000 per month that can provide good protection. BNI Life is supplementing these new products with the best in services, including close and convenient access, as well as 25-minute claim payments that have been acknowledged by the Indonesian Business Records organization. "By maximizing the potential of marketing resources, insurance agents, telemarketing and through synergy with its parent company, BNI Life earned seventh place in the category of new business premiums in 2017, after having ranked at 15th place last year," Geger said. For 2019, BNI Life is targeting the top five in this category through improvements in technology, synergy in the environment of BNI, the utilization of payrolls, and the use of applications and the internet. Through its products and services, BNI Life hopes more and more people are pushed to prepare for their futures through planning and protecting with insurance products. Aside from promoting the values of its new campaign, BNI Life also wants to support the Financial Service Authority's (OJK) goal of improving financial literacy, financial inclusion and insurance penetration in Indonesia. According to the OJK's National Literacy and Financial Inclusion Survey, from 2016, financial literacy in the country was at 29.66 percent, while financial inclusion stood at 67.82 percent. The government wants to keep increasing these numbers as per its Inclusive Finance National Strategy, which stipulates that financial inclusion has to reach 75 percent in 2019. As of January 2017, according to the OJK, the insurance industry's penetration rate was still at 2.87 percent of the gross domestic product. Meanwhile, in countries like Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, insurance penetration rates have reached 5 percent. In Indonesia, insurance density has also only reached Rp 1.29 million per year. A Montana conservation organization says a national fast food chains new elk sandwich runs counter to principles of fair chase hunting and wild meat consumption by promoting game farming. The Montana Wildlife Federation sent a letter to the CEO of Arbys on Tuesday criticizing the restaurant for offering an elk sandwich in three western locations, including Billings. Arbys previously sold venison at five locations last year, using deer raised as livestock. Wild game cannot be commercially sold in Montana. The positive response to our limited offering of venison last year was so widespread and passionate that we knew we had to find a way to offer it nationwide, Jim Taylor, chief marketing officer of Arbys Restaurant Group, Inc., said in a news release. On October 21, we want hunters and meat enthusiasts across the country to visit their local Arbys and enjoy this amazing sandwich. Its a perfect example of the level of innovation coming from our teams and our commitment to creating experiences that guests can only get at Arbys. MWF in its letter states the sale of farm-raised elk and deer in Montana clashes with a voter initiative passed in 2000 prohibiting new game farms in the state and banning shooting of the animals for a fee. Existing game farms could continue to operate but are prohibited from transferring licenses to another person or entity. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks says 29 licenses are still active for game farms, which are also called "alternative livestock" facilities, although not all currently house animals. Farm-raised game meat sandwiches run counter to core Montana values of public wildlife and consumption of healthy protein through ethically killed game, the letter says. Elk and deer are best left as wild, free-ranging animals that are part of the public trust, managed by the state for the benefit of all Montanans. Farmed deer and elk also present disease concerns such as chronic wasting disease passed from domestic to wild animals, the letter says. In an interview, MWFs Nick Gevock said the organization commends Arbys for supporting hunting and eating deer and elk, but feels the farm-raised aspect is "tone deaf to Montana values." I just hope they have a conversation with us about better ways to promote hunting or consumption of game, because we strongly support that, because these are not wild animals, he said. Some Montana restaurants have continued to offer farm-raised deer and elk following the passage of the voter initiative. MWF sees the large-scale promotion by Arbys as the main reason for the response letter, Gevock said. "We worked closely with a supplier in New Zealand to source our limited-edition venison and elk," Arby's spokesman Luke DeRouen wrote in an email. "We use meat that is grass-fed and free-range farmed using responsible practices. "We have also worked with the Georgia Wildlife Federation to better understand policies related to serving game." Arby's worked with GWF because the company is headquartered in Atlanta, DeRousen said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ganug Nugroho Adi (The Jakarta Post) Surakarta, Central Java Tue, October 17, 2017 10:04 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24cb097 1 Art & Culture Lokananta,recording,Indonesia-Raya,national-anthem,#nationalanthem Free The Lokananta recording studio in Surakarta, Central Java, is hosting an exhibition on the national anthem, Indonesia Raya. Visitors of the exhibition, which is slated to run until Thursday, can learn about the national anthem as well as other patriotic Indonesian songs in vinyl. Textual, graphical and audio-visual information at the countrys first recording studio documents the history of Indonesia Raya, including the figures behind the anthem. Visitors may also have a look at around 40 machines that marked the beginning of Indonesia's recording industry. A staff member plays 'Indonesia Raya' in its full three-stanza version. (JP/Ganug Nugroho Adi) The head of state-owned printing company Perum PNRIs office in Surakarta, Miftah C Zubir, said few people were familiar with Indonesia Raya and the musicians behind it, namely composer Wage Rudolf Supratman and Dutch music arranger Jozef Cleber; the exhibition allowed the public to get to know the national anthem better. Miftah added that the public needed to know that the song actually had two more stanzas, which are different from the current national anthem. In 1951, Wage Rudolf Supratman, with help from Cleber as the arranger, reportedly recorded the original national anthem at the Radio Republic Indonesia (RRI) studio in Jakarta. Lokananta later duplicated the recording. Read also: Govt rerecords 'Indonesia Raya Elementary school students visit an exhibition about the national anthem, 'Indonesia Raya,' which translates to "Great Indonesia." (JP/Ganug Nugroho Adi) Following the first recording, conductor Addie MS did a second recording in Australia in 1997. In May, the Ministry of Education and Culture recorded the original anthem in five versions: symphony, piano, unison, fanfare and harmony. In addition to the five versions, Lokananta recorded Indonesia Raya in single and three-stanza versions. Over the past few years, the national anthem has undergone several changes, namely in title and lyrics. In 1948, the government formed a committee to produce guidelines on singing Indonesia Raya. Ten years later, the government issued Perppu (regulation in lieu of law) No. 44 as guidelines. Based on the Perppu, Indonesia Raya consists of three stanzas, comprising additional lyrics that should be memorized and sung by the citizens. In July this year, the ministry began to promote the three-stanza version of Indonesia Raya at schools. (jes/kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Hanoi, Vietnam Tue, October 17, 2017 18:39 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24e7224 2 Parents baby,children,parents,Vietnam,childbirth Free A Vietnamese mother had the shock of her life when her newborn son weighed in at a whopping 7.1 kilograms (15.7 pounds), one of the heaviest births ever reported in the Southeast Asian nation. The very large bundle of joy was born Saturday to his beaming -- and stunned -- parents in northern Vinh Phuc province. "When the doctor said my child was 7.1 kilograms, we all couldn't believe it," father Tran Van Quan told AFP Monday. Doctors had earlier told mother Nguyen Kim Lien that her baby would be around five kilograms, but she hadn't bargained for the extra two. To be certain, they weighed him again after doctors brought him to mum's hospital room. The scales didn't lie. "He was 7.2 kilograms with some clothes on, so a bit heavier than when he came out of mummy!" Quan added. Read also: What no one mentions about vaginal birth Hospital staff confirmed the baby's weight to AFP, declining to comment. The family have named the not-so-little-guy Tran Tien Quoc, and Quan said both mother and son are healthy and happy. The last big baby to make headlines in Vietnam was in 2008, when a woman gave birth to a daughter weighing nearly seven kilograms in central Gia Lai province. The heaviest baby ever born to a healthy mother clocked in at 10.2 kilograms in 1955 in Aversa Italy, according to Guinness World Records. Baby Quoc is expected to go home in a few days with mum, who is recovering from a Caesarean section. This is the couple's second son. Their first was born in 2013 and weighed a comparatively modest 4.2 kilograms. Topics : baby children parents Vietnam childbirth Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin A. Kurniawan Ulung (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 10:02 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24cadcc 4 People entrepreneurs,Barbie,doll,inmates,inmates-products Free If you like to collect Barbie dolls, you might know the hijabi Barbie-lookalike doll named Jenna that just turned into a hit for wearing an abaya robe, a modest couture dress and colorful headscarf. Created by French businesswoman and mother Samira Amarir, Jenna followed the success of Hijarbie, a popular Instagram account owned by Nigerian scientist Haneefa Adam, which featured images of a hijab-wearing Barbie toy from Mattel. Indonesia too has Barbie-like dolls and they are clad not only in hijab but also in batik, one of the countrys intangible cultural heritages. Unlike Jenna, the Indonesian Barbie-lookalike dolls are created by female inmates who name their toys after themselves, such as Yanti and Widya. The brand of the batik-wearing dolls is Batik Girl that is masterminded by Lusia Efriani Kiroyan from Batam, Riau Islands. Since setting up the Cinderella from Indonesia Center (CFIC) foundation in 2012, she has empowered over 740 female inmates at two penitentiaries in Riau Islands and one in Jakarta to make dolls with dresses made of used batik attire or fabrics. Through Facebook, I asked my friends to give me batik dresses they no longer wore, the 37-year-old recently said in Jakarta. Before making the dolls, the inmates were taught by Lusia to make snacks, such as biscuits and cookies with an expectation that they would be financially independent after serving their time. The mother of two said 80 percent of the female inmates she helps at the penitentiaries are former drug addicts. For her, empowering them matters because she believes that they can be also heroes with skills that they have. I want to change these female inmates to be social entrepreneurs [after they walk free], she said. The idea to make Batik Girl popped up when she joined the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) in the United States where her friends liked to call her a doll from Indonesia for her Barbies looks, a tall girl with long hair, with batik dresses that she always wore. Last year, she began to dress her toys with hijabs with a mission to echo the peaceful image of Islam in Indonesia, the worlds biggest Muslim-majority country. Indonesian fashion: Barbie-lookalike dolls clad in batik dresses and hijabs. (Lusia Kiroyan/File) Every year, CFIC produces at least 2,000, each priced at US$15. The proceeds from its sales are used to finance the foundations charity programs, including the inmates salaries. Lusia said her dolls were hard to sell in Indonesia, but they got good responses abroad. Her foreign buyers usually donate the dolls to children with cancer, HIV and special needs in Indonesia. Last year, she distributed 1,000 dolls to children with cancer at hospitals in 10 provinces including the Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital (RSCM) in Jakarta in a bid to boost their spirit and motivate them to not give up. Lusia was open to feedback too. When taking part in the Australia Indonesia Youth Exchange Programs Young Muslim Exchange in Australia last year, she was criticized by some people who said that Barbie-like dolls were physically too perfect and it did not represent women in general. They said that Barbie would encourage women to undergo plastic surgery to be perfect like it, she said. However, she was not offended by the comments. In response she created a new doll last year that she named Little Lucy which she said represented her when she was an elementary school student, chubby, curly haired, naughty and cheerful. For the Little Lucy dolls, she empowered 15 deaf teenagers at a school for disabled children Eka Mandiri in Batu, East Java. When introducing her dolls, Lusia always tells people that each doll has story, including her own. She believes each woman deserve a happy life no matter whoever she is and what problems she is facing, a belief to empower the female inmates. She herself also has had dark periods in her life, including getting divorce in 2011. I am a single parent who is forced to be separated from my children because in Indonesia the law does not really defend women. My ex-husband took them away from me. To overcome my sadness, I made dolls that I named Nailah and Danendra, she said, referring to the names of her children. Because of her contribution to womens empowerment, Lusia was chosen to represent Indonesia at the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) in 2015, the US governments signature program to strengthen partnership with emerging leaders in Southeast Asia. I got grant worth $10,000 and met [former president] Barack Obama in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, she recalled. Lusia is now running a program called Batik Girl for ASEAN: Dolls and Tales for ASEAN Children through which she holds road shows to donate 10,000 dolls to children with cancer and special needs in 10 countries in ASEAN. My dolls bring messages of friendship, she said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Mariette Le Roux (Agence France-Presse) Paris Tue, October 17, 2017 11:37 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24cf623 2 Science & Tech neutron-star,universe,space,#space Free For the first time, scientists have witnessed the cataclysmic crash of two ultra-dense neutron stars in a galaxy far away, and concluded that such impacts forged at least half the gold in the Universe. Shockwaves and light flashes from the collision traveled some 130 million light-years to be captured by Earthly detectors on August 17, excited teams revealed at press conferences held around the globe on Monday as a dozen related science papers were published in top academic journals. "We witnessed history unfolding in front of our eyes: two neutron stars drawing closer, closer... turning faster and faster around each other, then colliding and scattering debris all over the place," co-discoverer Benoit Mours of France's CNRS research institute told AFP. The groundbreaking observation solved a number of physics riddles and sent ripples of excitement through the scientific community. Most jaw-dropping for many, the data finally revealed where much of the gold, platinum, uranium, mercury and other heavy elements in the Universe came from. Telescopes saw evidence of newly-forged material in the fallout, the teams said -- a source long suspected, now confirmed. "It makes it quite clear that a significant fraction, maybe half, maybe more, of the heavy elements in the Universe are actually produced by this kind of collision," said physicist Patrick Sutton, a member of the US-based Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) which contributed to the find. Neutron stars are the condensed, burnt-out cores that remain when massive stars run out of fuel, blow up, and die. Typically about 20 kilometres (12 miles) in diameter, but with more mass than the Sun, they are highly radioactive and ultra-dense -- a handful of material from one weighs as much as Mount Everest. Read also: Astronomers create first large-scale map of universe 'Too beautiful' It had been theorised that mergers of two such exotic bodies would create ripples in the fabric of space-time known as gravitational waves, as well as bright flashes of high-energy radiation called gamma ray bursts. On August 17, detectors witnessed both phenomena, 1.7 seconds apart, coming from the same spot in the constellation of Hydra. "It was clear to us within minutes that we had a binary neutron star detection," said David Shoemaker, another member of LIGO, which has detectors in Livingston, Louisiana and Hanford, Washington. "The signals were much too beautiful to be anything but that," he told AFP. The observation was the fruit of years of labour by thousands of scientists at more than 70 ground- and space-based observatories on all continents. Along with LIGO, they include teams from Europe's Virgo gravitational wave detector in Italy, and a number of ground- and space-based telescopes including NASA's Hubble. "This event marks a turning point in observational astronomy and will lead to a treasure trove of scientific results," said Bangalore Sathyaprakash from Cardiff University's School of Physics and Astronomy, recalling "the most exciting of my scientific life." "It is tremendously exciting to experience a rare event that transforms our understanding of the workings of the Universe," added France Cordova, director of the National Science Foundation which funds LIGO. The detection is another feather in the cap for German physicist Albert Einstein, who first predicted gravitational waves more than 100 years ago. Read also: US trio wins physics Nobel for spotting wrinkles in the cosmos Something 'fundamental' Three LIGO pioneers, Barry Barish, Kip Thorne and Rainer Weiss, were awarded the Nobel Physics Prize this month for the observation of gravitational waves, without which the latest discovery would not have been possible. The ripples have been observed four times before now -- the first time by LIGO in September 2015. All four were from mergers of black holes, which are even more violent than neutron star crashes, but emit no light. The fifth and latest detection was accompanied by a gamma ray burst which scientists said came from nearer in the Universe and was less bright than expected. "What this event is telling us is that there may be many more of these short gamma ray bursts going off nearby in the Universe than we expected," Sutton said -- an exciting prospect for scientists hoping to uncover further secrets of the Universe. Among other things, it is hoped that data from neutron star collisions will allow the definitive calculation of the rate at which the cosmos is expanding, which in turn will tell us how old it is and how much matter it contains. "With these observations we are not just learning what happens when neutron stars collide, we're also learning something fundamental about the nature of the Universe," said Julie McEnery of the Fermi gamma ray space telescope project. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ni Nyoman Wira (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 17:35 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24e3a7f 1 Art & Culture north-kalimantan,Education-and-Culture-Ministry,jakarta,intangible-cultural-heritage Free The Education and Culture Ministry has recognized three cultural works from North Kalimantan as Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage of 2017, following a ceremony on Oct. 4 in Jakarta. According to the province's official website, among the recognized cultural works are the Tidung tribes traditional ceremony of sending a Padaw Tuju Dulung ship out to sea from Tarakan city, the Dayak tribes Kenyah Jatung Utang musical instrument from Metun Sajau village in Bulungan regency, and the Lalatip dance from Malinau regency. North Kalimantan Education and Culture Office head Sigit Muryono said the province had actually submitted a total of nine cultural works to the ministry. But six of them did not pass [the ministry's selection process] due to a lack of academic studies, Sigit said in a press release. Insya Allah [God Willing] we will submit [them] again this year for the next Intangible Cultural Heritage. Read also: Cultural gallery marks anniversary with 'Unity in Diversity' performances Sigit said the ministrys recognition of North Kalimantans cultural works will support the province's efforts to boost tourism. Up to 150 cultural works from 34 provinces were recognized by the ministry as this year's Intangible Cultural Heritage, which include Wayang Garing (Garing shadow puppet) from Banten, Tenun Serat Gamplong (Serat Gamplong woven fabric) from Yogyakarta, and the Mansorandak tradition from West Papua. Started in 2013, Intangible Cultural Heritage aims to preserve the country's cultural heritage through cataloging, protecting, maintaining, rescuing and publishing cultural objects involving local administrations, communities and scholars. (kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 12:39 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24d3796 1 Lifestyle pribumi,anies-baswedan,#Anies-Sandiaga,Anies-Baswedan-Sandiaga-Uno,Anies-Sandiaga-inauguration,speech,Indonesia Free Jakarta officially welcomed a new governor, Anies Baswedan, on Monday. Amid the celebration, Aniess first speech created controversy after he called on the capitals pribumi (native Indonesians) to play a larger role in Indonesia. Since last night, the countrys netizens have been sharing their opinion on social media. So he's start to make a headline by referring "pribumi" to who? His people? You people? Dewi Ria Utari (@writingria) October 17, 2017 i mean not sure that i am 100% pribumi from the roots. there must be a lil mix of another race descend in my genetic code so that's why adele (@hstyIesrauhl) October 17, 2017 "Please give him a chance," that chance is already out when he said "pribumi will be united / strong again" lol bye binch Z a s h a | ( ); (@Zashache) October 17, 2017 Despite the controversy, let us brush up on the history of pribumi. It is common knowledge that Indonesia is a culturally diverse country as the archipelago is blessed with hundreds of ethnicities and around 700 languages. But who are the native Indonesians? In 1854, the Dutch coined the term pribumi for its three-tiered racial classification, using it to describe Indonesians and placing them below European and Foreign Oriental races, such as the Chinese, Arabs and Indians. Read also: Passionate supporters throng Anies-Sandiaga celebration at City Hall Kompas.com reported that the word was commonly used to describe people who had been inhabiting one area for generations. For Indonesian natives, science proved the opposite. Eijkman Institute researcher professor Herawati said that there was no dominant gene in the western and eastern parts of Indonesia. Meanwhile, in the northern part, the dominant gene was the Austroasiatic gene, followed by Austronesians. The genetic mixture was the result the human migration, namely earliest human, Austroasiatic and Austronesians migrations. Moreover, as the archipelago is nestled between the Indian and Pacific oceans, the country was once a trading center, creating a greater mixture of genes. In 2017, Herawati and her colleagues from the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (AIPI) studied 500 DNA samples from 25 regions in Asia. She discovered that when ones DNA is tested, the result shows a mixture of Chinese, Indian and European genes. (jes/kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 18:04 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24e65c6 1 City Jakarta-Bay,reclamation,Anies-Baswedan-Sandiaga-Uno,Luhut-Binsar-Pandjaitan,Jokowi-administration Free Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Pandjaitan said Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan must review all relevant regulations before making any decision in relation to the controversial Jakarta Bay reclamation project. He said as the citys leader, it was up to Anies to decide whether the project would continue, however, he must make a decision in line with regulations. He should be rational and not let politics influence his decision, he said on Tuesday. (Read also: Anies-Sandiaga must continue reclamation project) Luhut said that while his authority as a coordinating minister was limited, Anies could not make arbitrary decisions. He said the governor should take into account a 2008 presidential regulation (Perpres) on spatial planning in Greater Jakarta that guides land development. He also cited Perpres No. 122/2012 on coastal reclamation and small islands, which stipulates the central government has the authority to issue reclamation permits for islands of more than 25 hectares. While campaigning for the Jakarta gubernatorial election, Anies vowed to stop the project, saying it was environmentally unfriendly and would disrupt the livelihoods of fisherfolk. He also said he would initiate further studies on land reclamation with independent researchers. Luhuts undersecretary on infrastructure, Ridwan Djamaludin, said the central government would welcome new studies from credible researchers. Well listen to experts, he said. (dis/wit) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Indonesia Tue, October 17 2017 Five men who fish out of East Nusa Tenggara province have been arrested by Australian authorities while sailing in Indian Ocean waters. The five, along with their boat, have been arrested by Australian Fisheries Management Authority [AFMA] officers for entering Australian waters, the provinces Marine and Fisheries Resources and Supervision Division head Muhammad Saleh Goro told The Jakarta Post on Monday. 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) Bogor, West Java Tue, October 17, 2017 13:47 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24d7691 1 City #drugs-trafficking,#raid Free During a weeklong operation, the Bogor Police have seized more than 19,000 hard drugs that were planned for distribution among teenagers and workers in the regency, its narcotics head said on Monday. Bogor Police narcotics head Comr. Agah Sonjaya said on Monday that the unit had seized the three drugs hexymer, tramadol and aprozolam. "We have seized 4,000 hexymer pills, 15,300 tramadol pills, and 565 aprozolam," he said during a press conference at the Bogor Police office in West Java. Agah said the drugs were planned to be sold at Rp 3,000 (2 US cents) each, primarily targeting teenagers. He added that the police had estimated that the suspects would have made Rp 57 million if they had been able to sell all the drugs. Police have arrested five suspects, DA (19), DP (22), AS (26), PF (19), and GP(30), four of which will be charged with Law No. 36/2009 on Health with a maximum 10-year prison sentence and a Rp 1 billion fine. The remaining suspect will be charged with Law No. 5/1997 on Psychotropic Substances, which carries a maximum five-year prison sentence. "The suspects did not obtain the drugs from drugstores or small shops, but they bought them directly from Jakarta," he said.(rdi) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Novan Iman Santosa (The Jakarta Post) Beijing Tue, October 17 2017 China says it cherishes relations with its Asian neighbors to seek common prosperity through cooperation in various development projects, but at the same time it continues to claim sovereignty over the South China Sea. Under the so-called Neighborhood Policy, China values and prioritizes friendship with Asian countries through its foreign diplomacy, Yao Wen, a deputy director general at the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry, said on Monday. Speaking to journalists from 17 ASEAN and South Asian countries, plus Mongolia, Yao said China had made great progress in its relations with Asian countries, as could be seen in the US$1.2 trillion worth of trade with them in 2016. 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 Authorities say a 37-year-old Helena man was in possession of methamphetamine and syringes when searched for a probation violation. Probation asked the Helena Police Department to arrest Murinko on a violation last Friday. Murinko reportedly told officers he was in possession of syringes and was also found to be in possession of several small baggies testing positive for methamphetamine, according to an affidavit filed by the arresting officer. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Stefani Ribka (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 12:53 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24d4c71 1 Business Human-Capital-Summit,ArcandraTahar,Manpower-Ministry Free Forum Human Capital Indonesia (FHCI) is aiming to attract 1,200 participants in its second Human Capital Summit, the biggest human capital seminar in the country, by providing international speakers and Indonesian talents. FHCI chairman Herdy Harman said the organization hopes to see 70 percent of all participants come from State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and 30 percent from private firms. This forum has contributed to the development of human capital systems, especially in SOEs. Many of us have been adapting to implement better human capital system. Our hope is that private firms can see this as a prototype, he said on Monday. International human capital experts are slated to speak at the event, including the client research partner of Korn Ferry Hay Group, Signe Spencer, and Deloitte lead partner of Southeast Asia, analytics and information management Stuart Scotis. Local but globally recognized talents will also be presenting, such as Hollywood film producer Livi Zheng and Energy and Mineral Resources Undersecretary Arcandra Tahar. The summit, held at Ritz Carlton Pacific Place on Nov. 9-10, is themed Fostering Indonesian Heroes: The Future Competitive Great Talent, which will discuss leadership and economic growth in the digital era. Established in 2007, FHCI is a human capital practitioner community. Some 1,000 participants joined its summit last year as an effort to achieve President Joko Jokowi Widodos vision to empower the local workforce to be globally competitive. (ags) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jambi Tue, October 17 2017 Personnel of the Jambi Police drugs unit have arrested five people alleged to be drug couriers and two others suspected to be drug traffickers in separate arrests. Jambi Police chief Brig. Gen. Priyo Widyanto said the arrests were made in different locations from September to October. During the arrests, police confiscated 42 packs of marijuana totaling of 43,400 grams. They also seized 1,484.80 grams of crystal methamphetamine, or sabu-sabu, and 144 ecstasy pills. We suspect the drugs are from outside Jambi and were taken across land, Priyo said on Monday. 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 Rieka Rahadiana, Thomas Kutty Abraham and Rosalind Mathieson (Bloomberg) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 13:29 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24d6cdb 2 Business Jokowi,investment,FreeportIndonesia Free Indonesia will turn to private investors for the hundreds of billions of dollars in investment needed to develop the archipelagos infrastructure and natural resources, President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo said, brushing off claims he was increasingly becoming an economic nationalist. All major projects will be offered to the private sector, Jokowi, told Bloomberg Televisions Haslinda Amin on Saturday in an interview on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque Lake Toba. Government companies would partner with private investors only if there wasnt enough interest among such players, with funding from the national budget the last resort, he said. Halfway through his term in office, Jokowi is seeking to balance the need for more foreign investment with pressures at home to keep the economy, especially its mineral resources, in local hands. A dispute between the government and Freeport-McMoRan Inc. over the transfer of majority ownership of the US miners Indonesian unit demonstrates that challenge, while also stoking concern that investors may turn their back on the country. Is Indonesia a protectionist? No. We are open for investors, Jokowi said in the interview. We have cut the negative list to allow more foreign investors. It shows that Indonesia is open. Jokowi has attempted to wean the country off commodities and push investment in value-added manufacturing and services to emulate the success of countries like South Korea. He wants mining companies to build smelters rather than export raw commodities, and divest majority stakes in their businesses. Read also: Era of selling natural resources has ended: Jokowi While that nationalist strategy may help his prospects of being re-elected, its also undermining efforts to generate more jobs and boost growth. Newmont Mining and BHP Billiton pulled out of Indonesia in 2016, and DP World, the Dubai-owned company that operates ports from China to South America, said last month it wont renew a concession to jointly operate a terminal in the Southeast Asian nation beyond 2019 as conditions set by the government werent favorable. Budget Pressure With a legal cap on the fiscal deficit of 3 percent of gross domestic product, and revenues under pressure, Jokowi needs foreign investment to finance his ambitious infrastructure plan. The World Bank estimates Indonesia will need $500 billion over the next five years to build roads, ports and bridges. While 5 percent economic growth is good, the government will continue to pursue the 7 percent goal, Jokowi said. Faster growth was the best way to generate more jobs and increase per-capita income of the countrys 260 million people, he said. Read also: BI expects Q2 economic growth of 5.1% Jokowi, who completes three years in office this week, rode to power on a wave of political nationalism, pledging to renegotiate contracts with foreign companies. He recently ordered stricter enforcement of a policy requiring manufacturers use more local components, saying the rule was needed to reduce dependence on imports and encourage investment in factories. At the same time, hes implemented some business reforms to lure investors. Hes pledged a one-stop shop for approvals to speed up projects and allowed full foreign ownership of businesses, such as those operating toll roads, cold storage and cinemas. Business Reforms Thats helped Indonesia steadily improve its ranking on the World Banks ease of doing business index -- jumping 18 places to 91 this year. But regulations around land acquisition and permit processes continue to hold back investors, with only about a third of domestic and foreign investment pledges actually realized, according to government estimates. Jokowi said the government isnt done with reforms yet and will review labor laws. We will continue to have more sectors open for foreigners to invest their money in Indonesia, he said. Indeed, our focus is still on industry, manufacturing, film, theaters and creative industry. There are many and the most important is tourism, we will also open it. After agreeing in August to hand over a controlling stake in its Grasberg mine to the government, Freeport has been at loggerheads with authorities over how to value the miners Indonesian unit. Read also: Freeport agrees to 51% divestment, other terms: CEO Jokowi said he expects to conclude a win-win deal with Freeport in three months. The wrangling over the ownership and license hasnt discouraged investors, he said, adding that foreign companies continue to make fresh investment in sectors including nickel. Another possible deterrent to investment is the dominance of state-owned enterprises in the economy. World Bank President Jim Yong Kim said in July that Indonesia should lower its reliance on state firms to undertake projects and instead tap the private sector and foreign funds to finance them. Jokowi said hes ordered the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry to shrink the number of public companies running everything from airlines to gasoline stations and salt factories to 130 from about 800 by merging some of them. Topics : Jokowi investment FreeportIndonesia Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Suherdjoko (The Jakarta Post) Semarang Tue, October 17, 2017 18:19 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24e678b 1 National Jokowi,joko-widodo,Semarang,Central-Java,university,higher-education,Diponegoro-University Free President Joko Jokowi Widodo has reiterated that higher education institutions must better cope with vast technological developments in order to remain competitive in the global arena. The social behavior landscape has also been changing. The shift from offline to online is massive, Jokowi said during the 60th Dies Natalis of Diponegoro University in Semarang, Central Java, on Tuesday. If the social interaction landscape is changing, then we, nationally and in regions too, must deal with it, he told thousands of students of the university. Read also: Three Asian universities among top 30 schools for 1st time: Rankings Look at the way the youth get news today. They no longer read newspapers. They opt to go online, through their gadgets. We must be aware there is transformation ongoing, the President said. Jokowi added that he had ordered his Cabinet members to improve vocational education institutions in order to boost the technological capacity of Indonesian youth. He also suggested that Diponegoro University open digital-themed courses such as Digital Economy, Financial Technology and Digital Commerce. Doctor Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti (right) receives an honorary doctorate from Diponegoro University rector Yos Johan Utama at the universitys campus in Semarang on Saturday. (JP/Herdjoko) The universitys rector, Yos Johan Utama, said the university had been improving to become a global education destination. In term of research, we are number one in Indonesia, he said, citing rankings by the Research, Technology and Higher Education Ministry. The ministry ranked the university the sixth-best in Indonesia in 2017. (bbs) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 12:55 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24d55d6 1 City #suicide,#Jakarta Free A woman who reportedly jumped to her death from the fifth floor of Blok M Square mall in South Jakarta on Monday evening, has been identified as a Philippine citizen. "We suspect that it was a suicide, but we're still investigating the incident," Kebayoran Baru Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Teguh Wibowo said on Monday as quoted by kompas.com. The victim's identity card was found inside a bag left near a snack kiosk on the fifth floor. The kiosk owner told the police that the woman had walked back and forth aimlessly in front of the store before jumping. Her body was taken to Fatmawati Hospital in South Jakarta for further examination. (cal) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 17:05 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24e0dc8 1 City #PulomasMurder,#Jakarta,#violence Free The East Jakarta District Court found guilty the defendants in a robbery and murder case that took place in Pulo Mas, East Jakarta, sentencing two of them to death and the other to life imprisonment. The three defendants, Ridwan Sitorus aka Ius Pane, Erwin Situmorang aka Ucok and Alfin Berius Sinaga aka Alfin, have been detained since Dec. 29, 2016. Ius Pane and Erwin have been proven guilty of murder and Alfin Sinaga is guilty of aiding and abetting, presiding judge Gede Ariawan said on Tuesday. (Read also: Six killed in alleged robbery in Pulo Mas) Meanwhile, a lawyer for the defendants said they would appeal the verdict. We object to the verdict and will appeal, said one of the defendants lawyers, Djarot Widodo. The three defendants robbed a home owned by Dodi Triono, 59, in Pulo Mas, East Jakarta, on Dec. 26. They used a gun and machete to threaten their 11 victims, who they then locked in a 1.5 by 2-square-meter bathroom. Six of the victims died of asphyxiation, while the rest survived. (ecn/wnd) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Safrin La Batu (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 09:20 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24c9d8c 2 National journalism,freedom-of-expression,press-freedom,reporters,sejuk,religious-freedom,interfaith Free Religion journalists across Asia and beyond will be gathering in Tangerang, Banten, for a three-day workshop that kicks off on Tuesday to share stories and experiences as well as the challenges they face in reporting religions and conflicts between religious communities. Adopting the theme reporting religion in Asia, the conference aims to educate journalists and the media in general about the importance of understanding religion and the religious community they are reporting so they can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem. Reporting religion, and reporting it well, should now be a matter of editorial policy, said the conference brief. The event is being jointly conducted by the United States-based International Association of Religion Journalists (IARJ) and the Jakarta-based Union of Journalists for Diversity (Sejuk). Besides journalists and prominent media figures, including some editors-in-chief, the conference will also be attended by state officials including Deputy Foreign Minister A.M Fachri, who will attend the opening and deliver a keynote address, titled, Interfaith dialogue as Indonesias signature diplomacy. Read also: EDITORIAL: Faith in journalism Ambassador of Denmark to Indonesia, Rasmus Abildgaard Kistensen, will deliver the opening remarks at the conference, held at the Multimedia Nusantara University, Serpong. Some leaders of different religious communities will also attend the conference and be panelists in a discussion of religion-related subjects. Reporting religion has never been more challenging in Asia. Poor reporting of religion and of the religious communities, mostly out of ignorance but sometimes as a matter of editorial policy, contributes to the rising of tensions or fanning of the conflicts in many parts in Asia, the brief stated. At the gathering, journalists will participate in workshops on the joys and tensions associated with plying their trade throughout Asia and Oceania, while covering Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Jews and the non-religious as well as the complex relationships between these groups. Sought after: Hundreds of students join a study session after the tarawih (evening Ramadhan prayers). Some participants only find a space to sit on the street and in the yards of houses around the Islamic boarding school. (JP/Sigit Pamungkas) Journalists will also go on a visit to Pesantren Darunnajah, one of Indonesias distinctive Islamic boarding schools, located in South Jakarta. Indonesia is known for developing some of the largest and most elaborate Muslim boarding schools. Co-sponsored by the Danish Embassy in Indonesia, Asia Foundation and Tifa Foundation, the conference will bring journalists from 15 different countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Timor Leste, the Philippines, China, South Korea, Australia and Indonesia. In many parts of the world, including North America, we tend to forget that Indonesia is a major global center of Islam and its also a nation working to build healthy relationships across diverse religious and cultural boundaries, said David Crumm, an American publisher and journalist, as quoted on the organizations website. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Sri Wahyuni (The Jakarta Post) Yogyakarta Tue, October 17, 2017 19:18 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24e8ed1 1 National UGM,Gadjah-Mada-University,Yogyakarta,higher-education,QS-rankings,national-education,Education Free Gadjah Mada University has made its way to the top 100 universities in Asia, according to the QS Asia University Ranking 2018 released by global university ranking institution Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) on Tuesday. The Yogyakarta-based university has jumped to the 85th spot from 105th last year. We had set a target to be among the top 100 [in Asia] this year, and the target has been achieved, the head of UGMs quality control office, Indra Wijaya Kusuma, said in a release on Tuesday. The QS based its research on 11 indicators, including academic reputation, alumni reputation, lecturer-student ratio, research citations, student exchanges and the number of foreign students. Read also: Malaysia, Indonesia to boost higher education Indra said among indicators that had significantly boosted UGM's ranking were academic reputation, which improved to 46th spot from 49th last year, and alumni reputation, which moved up to 60th place from 75th. Ranking improvement is not [UGM's] ultimate purpose but this achievement has further spurred UGM to continue improving its education quality in the years to come, Indra said. Apart from UGM, 16 other Indonesian universities have also been included in Asias 400 top universities. The University of Indonesia (UI) rose from 67th position in 2017 to 54th in 2018, its highest position in the annual ranking, while the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) jumped from 86th place in 2017 to 65th in 2018. (bbs) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Cox's Bazaar, Bangladesh Tue, October 17, 2017 19:05 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24e84f3 2 World Myanmar,Bangladesh,Rohingya,refugee Free Some 582,000 Rohingya refugees have now fled Myanmar for Bangladesh since late August, the United Nations said Tuesday, warning that thousands more were still stranded at the border. The UN said between 10,000 and 15,000 new refugees have arrived at the border in the last 48 hours alone, fleeing violence in Myanmar, where Rohingya villages are being burned to the ground. It expressed deep concern about newly arrived refugees including children and elderly people dehydrated and hungry from the long journey who are stranded near the border. One Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) official told AFP on condition of anonymity that the new arrivals were being held in an area of no man's land, although it was not immediately clear why. Spokesman Andrej Mahecic said the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) was advocating with the Bangladesh authorities "to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly difficult conditions back home". He said UNHCR staff had spoken with people who described walking for a week to reach the Bangladesh border. Most are still squatting in paddy fields in Bangladesh, and were waiting for permission to move away from the border, he said. "Every minute counts given the fragile condition they're arriving in," said Mahecic. Mahecic said many had chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmar's Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed. "They finally fled when their villages were set on fire," he said. Many of the new arrivals were from Rakhine's Buthidaung district, which lies relatively far from the border with Bangladesh. "The military killed my brother. We walked all the way to this land to save our lives," said Mohammad Shoeb, who arrived at the border with his family on Monday evening. The UN said a jump of 45,000 in its estimated number of newly arrived refugees to 582,000 was due partly to improved access to some areas where many had previously gone uncounted. That figure does not include the thousands currently in no man's land. Topics : Myanmar Bangladesh Rohingya refugee Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Aden, Yemen Tue, October 17, 2017 12:28 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24d1c63 2 World Islamic-caliphate,IS,Yemen,US Free The US military said Monday it killed dozens of Islamic State fighters at the group's training camps in central Yemen, in the first such strikes in the country's conflict. Witnesses said villagers were prevented by tribal leaders from approaching the area and retrieving the dead and wounded for fear of additional strikes. Locals said the camps, both in Bayda province, were named after prominent IS figures: Yemen chief Abu Bilal al-Harbi and former global spokesman Abu Mohamed al-Adnani, killed last summer in a US air strike. This is the first time allies of Yemen's internationally recognized government have announced raids against IS footholds. "US forces killed dozens of ISIS members in a strike on two ISIS training camps... in Al-Bayda Governorate, Yemen, disrupting the organization's attempts to train new fighters," US Central Command, which oversees US forces in the region, said in a statement. "ISIS used the camps to train militants to conduct terror attacks using AK-47s, machine guns, rocket-propelled grenade launchers and endurance training." IS and its jihadist rival Al-Qaeda have taken advantage of a conflict between the government and Shiite Huthi rebels, who control the capital Sanaa, to bolster their presence across much of the south. The US is the only force known to operate armed drones over Yemen, but previous known strikes have exclusively targeted Al-Qaeda. IS, however, has risen to prominence in the country's civil war targeting both army recruits of the government and Shiites, which it considers heretics. It entered the war in March 2015 with a series of attacks on Shiite mosques in the capital, leaving more than 140 people dead. The group's last major attack was a suicide bombing in the government stronghold of Aden last December, which killed 48 soldiers. "Strikes against ISIS targets disrupt and destroy militants' attack-plotting efforts, leadership networks and freedom of maneuver within the region," the CENTCOM statement read. Al-Qaeda has distanced itself from IS attacks, claiming that it seeks to avoid "the shedding of any Muslim blood" while focusing on fighting the "Americans and their allies." The Saudi-led coalition, which intervened in Yemen in March 2015 to roll back Huthi rebel gains, has also turned its firepower on Sunni jihadists and backed forces loyal to President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi. When a kindergarten class walked into the gym at Russell Elementary last week, many of the older students had already found seats with fellow members of their house. Teachers with red feather ears springing from headbands led House Compassion in stomps and claps at one end of the bleachers. At the other, a teacher from House Resilience repeatedly tossed a ball for students to catch. Upbeat music blared from speakers, so a teacher from House Courage danced and asked kids in the bleachers to join her. Principal Cindy Christensen greeted students as they walked in. Come on, kinders! she said, pumping a fist above her head. Each student wore a sticker with their name and house in case they became lost. Teacher Rebecca Schendel sorted her class by house and sent each group of two or three walking hand-in-hand toward the group they should join in the bleachers. See the yellow? she said, leaning over as she pointed toward a teacher from House Integrity, who waved the tentative kids forward. Last year, Russell Elementary decided to mimic the Harry Potter book series, where the fictional students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry are sorted into houses based on their characteristics. For instance, members of Gryffindor are known for their courage and determination, students of Ravenclaw are wise and witty, and people from Hufflepuff value loyalty and hard work. At Russell, students are randomly sorted at the beginning of the school year into one of six houses compassion, courage, integrity, resilience, gratitude and tenacity by popping balloons with paper slips inside. Like the books, friendly rivalries exist among the groups at Russell. Sometimes they have to cooperate to achieve a common goal. Russell students earn house points for good deeds, such as being helpful in class or walking quietly through the halls, that are tallied on a bulletin board outside the gym. Periodically, students gather for house meetings to talk about and practice the schools goal for the month, such as Octobers focus on friendship and cooperation. Students from all grades work alongside each other. Students also can receive shout-outs, or written compliments, from teachers. One shout-out pinned to the hallway bulletin board celebrated students who were taking turns sharing the swing and pushing each other. Another thanked a student for taking care of a sad friend. Every once in a while, Christensen chooses one child from the shout-out board to visit her office. They write their name on her chalkboard door and call home to tell a parent about their good work. At the end of each trimester, the house with the most points earns a trophy and a special reward. The houses arent just fun and games though. Russell School is creating an atmosphere of community and respect, Christensen said. The houses teach students to be good people and to help them grow as good citizen," said Hatton Littman, Missoula County Public Schools communications director. They support our core values and serve as an easy way to build a community of respect and tolerance for differences. After a roll call of the six houses at the assembly last week, Christensen directed each to walk to a different place in the building for a group activity. The 53 students in House Compassion gathered in a nearby room and sat on the floor. What does compassion mean? asked Jenna Seaman, a fourth-grade teacher. Its a big word and its super important. We think about other people's hearts, said Jaxon Fulcher, a kindergarten student. They then talked about that months focus. If you want a friend Shannon Judge, a second-grade teacher, said, pointing to the kids to finish her sentence. Be a friend! they shouted back. Raise your hand if you can tell me a way you can be a friend at Russell school, Seaman said. Be listening because this is what were going to be doing in our activity, in our squads. Be kind, said Eliza Ascher, a second grader. We could help each other when we fall down, said Mattisyn Mattix, a kindergartner. The group then broke into 10-person squads with each member drawing a picture of how to be a friend on a red paper puzzle piece that they would later assemble as a whole group. Older students were asked to help younger ones spell difficult words or to fetch more crayons when there werent enough. In the library down the hall, members of House Gratitude were shaking hands and talking with each other. We are introducing ourselves to new people so that we can make new friends, Raelene Punke, a resource teacher, said. As the bell rang, Gratitude stomped and clapped to the beat of their house chant. "We have the attitude of gratitude, we push the bad away, we see the good in everything, our gratefulness is here to stay." They cheered some more before returning to their regular classrooms. Fourth- graders paired up with kindergarten students to help them find the way. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Kyodo News) Tokyo Tue, October 17, 2017 20:03 1855 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a24eb56d 2 News robot,Hotel,#hotel,Japan Free Japanese travel company H.I.S. Co. said Monday it will open 10 more hotels staffed by robots in Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka and Kyoto by March 2019. "Henn-na Hotel," or "strange hotel," featuring dinosaur or female humanoid robot receptionists and cleaning robots, will be opened in downtown areas of the cities, targeting the booming foreign tourist market in Japan, the company said. Read also: Japan opens 2nd robot-manned hotel Currently, H.I.S. operates three similar hotels near theme parks in Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture and Gamagori, Aichi Prefecture. The company plans to open six branded Henn-na Hotels in Tokyo between December and September next year, one in Fukuoka and two in Osaka in December 2018, and another in Kyoto in March 2019, with the investment estimated to total approximately 20 to 30 billion yen ($180-270 million). Australia one of Ferraris best performing markets with models selling out before even arriving on our roads. Ferrari Australia will be celebrating more than just its 70th anniversary this year when it climbs well and truly into the top ten best performing Ferrari markets around the world. According to Ferrari Australia chief executive Herbert Appleroth, Aussies are enjoying new found wealth by buying supercars particularly of the Italian kind. During Ferraris 70th anniversary celebrating its $12 million LaFerrari Aperta supercar unveil at Motorclassica this weekend, Appleroth told Drive the famous prancing horse had never been more popular Down Under. Weve never seen a point in time where it has been this successful, said Appleroth. We obviously closely limit the number of cars that come into the marketplace but the market is extremely buoyant, he continued. I have no problems telling you it will be another record from Ferrari this year. But again, a measure of increased (growth) year on year, he explained. Our focus is on resale value of our clients cars that is increasing dramatically but there has never been a moment in time when Ferrari has been as popular as it has now. In Australia and globally, he said. Appleroth explained to media that most of that wealth came from the east coast of Australia where home owners have enjoyed rapidly increasing house prices. Theres a lot of wealthy people, theres a lot of new wealth. Also, its more about level of confidence - nothing helps Ferrari sales more than confidence, said Appleroth. Obviously the building industry and real estate has certainly been a great level of improvement for confidence. If people see their family home or investment property going up in value they become confident, he said. Australia has one of the highest home ownership (percentages) in the world so theres a lot of people making a lot of money. The great thing about the real estate boom on the eastern seaboard is that a lot of money is being put in the hands of many people, he said. For Ferrari, Australias sudden penchant for supercars and the Italian brand has led the way to the Australia arm having more clout with the factory back at home. Long waiting lists and early sell-outs have allowed Ferrari Australia to gain more allocation than it ever had before. The first true surge was with the 488 ($468,988) and immediately we had a two or three year waiting list. The California T ($409,888) kept on that momentum and of late, the 812 Superfast ($610,000) where we didnt just sell out our first years allocation we sold out our entire life cycle before the car came here, Appleroth said. Weve never seen that level of enquiry and sales ever before, he said. Were growing up the ranking of volume around the world. Every year were going one or two places higher and higher. Weve been allowed to grow from our factory. Our factory isnt producing that many more cars each year but we are able to get a larger share, stated Appleroth. Even the highly-exclusive $12 million LaFerrari Aperta has sold out but Appleroth says a few of its owners are Australian too, although its possible they will remain in garages overseas unless changes to state legislation allow the left-hand drive vehicles to be registered here. MORE: Ferrari News and Reviews Almost half the nation's parents have never considered asking their children about their mental health, it has emerged. Researchers found millions of mums and dads are so busy with looking after their families day-to-day they haven't thought about asking their kids how they are. The stat is even more remarkable when you consider the fact many parents believe their youngsters are suffering from stress caused by school issues. Two thirds said they believed their kids 'have it tough', with more academic pressure placed upon them than their own generation when they were growing up. It also emerged two in five think schools put pupils well-being at risk by focusing too much on academic performance. Dr Antonis Kousoulis from the Mental Health Foundation, who commissioned the study to mark the launch of their new mental health in schools project, said: From an independent study we know that 50 per cent of adult mental health problems are already established by the age of 14, and yet mental health education is still not compulsory at schools. It is crucial that we reach young people early and give them the knowledge and skills they will need to understand and protect their mental health in todays complex world. The study also found 70 per cent of mums and dads agree young people should be taught about mental health at school, though one in four incorrectly believe it is already a compulsory subject. Just ten per cent of parents think getting mental health support for their child, should they need it, would be a straightforward process. And 44 per cent said they feel pessimistic about the world their children will enter once they finish their school years. A concerned one in three dont think their child would come to them for advice if they were struggling with their mental health. But it isn't all doom and gloom. Half of the mums and dads who took part in the study believe their kids are conscious of the discrimination surrounding mental illness. And 48 per cent think their kids have adopted a positive attitude towards mental health and those who live with mental health conditions. The Mental Health Foundation's flagship pilot project in schools sees year 12 pupils teaching year 7s about mental health. In a separate study conducted by the charity, over half of the year 7 pupils who took part said it was very helpful to learn about mental health from a peer educator rather than their usual teacher. The Mental Health Foundation say the next generation of young people will be the one to wipe out mental health stigma. Helen Bohan, who leads the schools pilot project for the Mental Health Foundation, said: It is incredibly encouraging to see students rise to the challenge of educating and supporting others with their mental health. We hope that the government wakes up to the need for young people to learn about mental health from a young age and join us in equipping a generation for the challenges they will face by rolling out innovative solutions like this nationwide. Emmy Award winning actor Riz Ahmed has just announced that he's in discussions to star in a Hamlet Netflix series! Ahmed shot to success with his role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and has received critical acclaim alongside his Emmy win for his role in the hit HBO series The Night Of. He was also named as one of TIME's 100 most influential people of 2017. Now he's set his sights on Shakespeare, and we couldn't be more excited! According to Deadline , the series will be set in a modern-day London of economic and political uncertainty. The story follows the intersecting themes of familial honor, moral duty and dynastic corruption. Emmy Winner Riz Ahmed In Negotiations To Star In Netflixs Hamlet https://t.co/8nsvMJDJgA pic.twitter.com/yIiefnneUE Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) October 16, 2017 That the familial dynamics of Hamlet being reshaped through a South Asian cultural lens is a genius move! Ahmed has been very outspoken in his activism regarding South Asian representation on screen. His involvement in films like The Reluctant Fundamentalist, The Road to Guantanamo, and Four Lions demonstrate the importance he places on his cultural identity within his work. Ahmed recently spoke out at the House of Commons regarding on-screen r epresentation, and how it can help to shape society. An incredibly multi-talented artist, Ahmed has had this Hamlet project in the works for years, alongside his highly successful acting career, and music career! Alongside his acting, his rap career as Riz MC has a huge cult following. His solo work spans from the famously banned "9/11 Blues" mixtape which dropped a decade ago, to his brilliantly successful collaboration with Lin Manuel Miranda on the Hamilton mixtape . He also performs as part of the Swet Shop Boys, who mix South Asian and Western culture in their effortlessly cool bars. Another future project on the horizon, Ahmed is set to star in The Sister Brothers next year, alongside Joaquin Phoenix and his Nightcrawler co-star Jake Gyllenhaal. To give you a taster of his Shakespearean style, here's a clip of Ahmed performing Edmund's famous soliloquy from King Lear for the Guardian's Shakespeare season last year. It'll give you goosebumps! That's certainly whet our appetites for Hamlet! 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 Money is the lifeblood of our economy, but our financial system is a train-wreck in slow motion. After the banking system collapsed in 2008, only ruinous borrowing has even allowed us to pretend that our economy is recovering. If you borrow credit card money, has your income gone up? No. If you subtract all the borrowing, our economy has actually been shrinking. We face an economic catastrophe when the bill comes due. Our banking system has been giving us a false recovery and transferring wealth from the poor to the rich in the process. The people of Montana are drowning in debt. I am running because we must solve the debt problem before the next financial crisis hits, or we are all in big trouble. To fix our economy, we must stop the banking system from sucking our economy dry. The banking system truly is a great vampire squid wrapped around the face of humanity, relentlessly jamming its blood funnel into anything that smells like money. We wont get help from Jon Tester. Goldman Sachs is Jon Testers third largest campaign contributor, and ten of his top twenty contributors are financial institutions whose practices I plan on reforming from top to bottom. It doesnt help matters that Jon Tester sits on the Senate Banking Committee, which is supposed to police the big banks. Congress feeble attempt at reforming the financial system, the Dodd-Frank bill, only pretended to fix things. Dodd-Frank took the wind out of the sails of all the folks who worked so hard to bring change to Wall Street. Passing a pretend bill was worse than passing no bill at all. I have a plan to reform the banking system, and I will get the job done in short order. I will bring a new financial system and a new framework to help everyone, including those without college educations, start a business and get the money they need without borrowing. We should not be forced to accept loans from banks to start businesses. We need a brand new social safety net to ensure that no one falls through the cracks. Lets not kid ourselvesthe kind of social safety net we want is generous and expensive. We have to solve finance so that we can help people help each other. Sarah Dean has announced that she is running for U.S. Senate in Montana. 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The homeowner told police that he parked his Hyundai Tiberon inside of his garage, and when he prepared to leave for the day at about 5:30 a.m., he noticed several items were missing from the garage, the vehicle and inside the house. Among the stolen items, the affidavit said, were $40 in cash and a $10 Target gift card taken from the homeowner's wallet, $20 in pennies from a glass bowl that he kept on a shelf, $5 in loose change from the car's ashtray and three rings that were stored inside of a jewelry box in one of the house's bedrooms. The homeowner told police that he didn't see any signs of forced entry at the house, but he did say he left the door from the garage to the kitchen unlocked the night of the incident. The affidavit for the October burglary said it took place outside of a home in the 100 block of Grays Lane. The homeowner in that case told police that a bag of pool cues was stolen from his Jeep Patriot that was parked in his driveway. The homeowner's security system captured footage that showed what appeared to be a man carrying the pool cue bag and walking between two houses that access the backyard of a house in the 100 block of Larry Drive, the affidavit said. On Wednesday, police detectives and Illinois Department of Corrections parole agents searched the suspect's house on Larry Drive, and found two of the stolen rings and the bag of pool cues inside. The man was charged with two preliminary charges of burglary from a motor vehicle, which are subject to review by the Macon County State's Attorney's office. He was held in the Macon County Jail Monday on $50,000 bond. He is due in court to be arraigned on on Nov. 13. City Councilman Bill Faber will not seek reelection in 2023, a move that opens up at least one of three council seats in the municipal election in April. Herald & Review Voices features conversations with Herald & Review writers, editors and our readers. In this episode, Herald & Review Audience Engagement Editor Tim Cain talks with Deputy Managing Editor of Digital John Reidy about the Cubs' performance in the first two NLCS games Friday and Saturday. Subscribe to Herald & Review Voices on iTunes or Google Play Music so that you never miss an episode! Let us know what you think, or suggest a subject or individual to be a Herald & Review Voice. Reach us by email (hrnews@herald-review.com), Facebook or by phone at (217) 421-6908 (audience engagement editor Tim Cain). Washington, D.C. --- U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) delivered the following remarks after being awarded the National Constitution Center's annual Liberty Medal. Vice President Joe Biden, Chairman of the National Constitution Center's Board of Trustees, presented the 2017 Liberty Medal to Senator McCain for his lifetime of sacrifice and service to the nation: "Thank you, Joe, my old, dear friend, for those mostly undeserved kind words. Vice President Biden and I have known each other for a lot of years now, more than forty, if you're counting. We knew each other back when we were young and handsome and smarter than everyone else but were too modest to say so. "Joe was already a senator, and I was the Navy's liaison to the Senate. My duties included escorting senate delegations on overseas trips, and in that capacity, I supervised the disposition of the delegation's luggage, which could require -- now and again -- when no one of lower rank was available for the job -- that I carry someone worthy's bag. Once or twice that worthy turned out to be the young senator from Delaware. I've resented it ever since. "Joe has heard me joke about that before. I hope he has heard, too, my profession of gratitude for his friendship these many years. It has meant a lot to me. We served in the Senate together for over twenty years, during some eventful times, as we passed from young men to the fossils who appear before you this evening. "We didn't always agree on the issues. We often argued -- sometimes passionately. But we believed in each other's patriotism and the sincerity of each other's convictions. We believed in the institution we were privileged to serve in. We believed in our mutual responsibility to help make the place work and to cooperate in finding solutions to our country's problems. We believed in our country and in our country's indispensability to international peace and stability and to the progress of humanity. And through it all, whether we argued or agreed, Joe was good company. Thank you, old friend, for your company and your service to America. "Thank you, too, to the National Constitution Center, and everyone associated with it for this award. Thank you for that video, and for the all too generous compliments paid to me this evening. I'm aware of the prestigious company the Liberty Medal places me in. I'm humbled by it, and I'll try my best not to prove too unworthy of it. "Some years ago, I was present at an event where an earlier Liberty Medal recipient spoke about America's values and the sacrifices made for them. It was 1991, and I was attending the ceremony commemorating the 50th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The World War II veteran, estimable patriot and good man, President George H.W. Bush, gave a moving speech at the USS Arizona memorial. I remember it very well. His voice was thick with emotion as he neared the end of his address. I imagine he was thinking not only of the brave Americans who lost their lives on December 7, 1941, but of the friends he had served with and lost in the Pacific where he had been the Navy's youngest aviator. "'Look at the water here, clear and quiet ...' he directed, 'One day, in what now seems another lifetime, it wrapped its arms around the finest sons any nation could ever have, and it carried them to a better world.' "He could barely get out the last line, 'May God bless them, and may God bless America, the most wondrous land on earth.' "The most wondrous land on earth, indeed. I've had the good fortune to spend sixty years in service to this wondrous land. It has not been perfect service, to be sure, and there were probably times when the country might have benefited from a little less of my help. But I've tried to deserve the privilege as best I can, and I've been repaid a thousand times over with adventures, with good company, and with the satisfaction of serving something more important than myself, of being a bit player in the extraordinary story of America. And I am so very grateful. "What a privilege it is to serve this big, boisterous, brawling, intemperate, striving, daring, beautiful, bountiful, brave, magnificent country. With all our flaws, all our mistakes, with all the frailties of human nature as much on display as our virtues, with all the rancor and anger of our politics, we are blessed. "We are living in the land of the free, the land where anything is possible, the land of the immigrant's dream, the land with the storied past forgotten in the rush to the imagined future, the land that repairs and reinvents itself, the land where a person can escape the consequences of a self-centered youth and know the satisfaction of sacrificing for an ideal, the land where you can go from aimless rebellion to a noble cause, and from the bottom of your class to your party's nomination for president. "We are blessed, and we have been a blessing to humanity in turn. The international order we helped build from the ashes of world war, and that we defend to this day, has liberated more people from tyranny and poverty than ever before in history. This wondrous land has shared its treasures and ideals and shed the blood of its finest patriots to help make another, better world. And as we did so, we made our own civilization more just, freer, more accomplished and prosperous than the America that existed when I watched my father go off to war on December 7, 1941. "To fear the world we have organized and led for three-quarters of a century, to abandon the ideals we have advanced around the globe, to refuse the obligations of international leadership and our duty to remain 'the last best hope of earth' for the sake of some half-baked, spurious nationalism cooked up by people who would rather find scapegoats than solve problems is as unpatriotic as an attachment to any other tired dogma of the past that Americans consigned to the ash heap of history. "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil. We are the custodians of those ideals at home, and their champion abroad. We have done great good in the world. That leadership has had its costs, but we have become incomparably powerful and wealthy as we did. We have a moral obligation to continue in our just cause, and we would bring more than shame on ourselves if we don't. We will not thrive in a world where our leadership and ideals are absent. We wouldn't deserve to. "I am the luckiest guy on earth. I have served America's cause -- the cause of our security and the security of our friends, the cause of freedom and equal justice -- all my adult life. I haven't always served it well. I haven't even always appreciated what I was serving. But among the few compensations of old age is the acuity of hindsight. I see now that I was part of something important that drew me along in its wake even when I was diverted by other interests. I was, knowingly or not, along for the ride as America made the future better than the past. "And I have enjoyed it, every single day of it, the good ones and the not so good ones. I've been inspired by the service of better patriots than me. I've seen Americans make sacrifices for our country and her causes and for people who were strangers to them but for our common humanity, sacrifices that were much harder than the service asked of me. And I've seen the good they have done, the lives they freed from tyranny and injustice, the hope they encouraged, the dreams they made achievable. "May God bless them. May God bless America, and give us the strength and wisdom, the generosity and compassion, to do our duty for this wondrous land, and for the world that counts on us. With all its suffering and dangers, the world still looks to the example and leadership of America to become, another, better place. What greater cause could anyone ever serve. "Thank you again for this honor. I'll treasure it." The Armenian National Assemblys Standing Committee on European Integration is now debating two domestic violence bills that have sparked heated controversy and shouting matches between supporters and detractors. Standing Committee President Naira Zohrabyan has announced that all are invited to attend the hearings on the two bills, entitled Preventing domestic violence and Regarding the defense of those subject to domestic violence, imploring that the discussions not devolve into a battle. Armenian Deputy Justice Minister Vigen Kocharyan said that the political decision to draft such bills wasnt made yesterday but as far back as 2004. Kocharyan said hes been surprised to see people come out in opposition to the bill who have never experienced domestic violence. The deputy minister said that the government must step in to protect the victims of domestic violence, rather than depend on a few NGOs to provide support and shelter for them. The bill now being debated would house domestic violence victims in shelters for up to twelve months. Kocharyan said that the police in Armenia receive, on average, two domestic violence reports per day. This bill is designed to defend the Armenian family, Kocharyan said at todays parliamentary hearing. Our opponents often argue that we have a criminal code with which to prosecute those who commit violence. But this bill has nothing to do with the criminal code. It deals with preventing domestic violence; defending the family from violence. If we were to think like our opponents do, wed have the following let him break a head and then be prosecuted according to the criminal code. Tell me, which of these two approaches really targets defending the family, prevention, or criminal prosecution? Kocharyan asked. The deputy minister noted that representatives of European countries have been proposing the criminalization of domestic violence and that this wasnt acceptable for Armenia. Gevorg Petrosyan, a Tsarukyan Alliance MP, declared that while he was against violence, the bills had a number of clauses that ran contrary to the national spiritual make-up. Petrosyan criticized a clause in the bill that would gave a police official the right to restrict a childs contact with his/her parents, arguing that under Article 37 of Armenias Constitution that right is only afforded the courts. Naira Zohrabyan then raised the question of economic violence, since some children in Armenia go to sleep hungry. If a family cannot provide proper conditions for raising children, nutrition and such, given that such conditions exist in the country due to ineffective governance, should charges of economic violence be brought? she asked. Deputy Minister Kocharyan responded that the bill refers to the deliberately depriving children of housing, food, etc. MP Petrosyan also voiced opposition to a clause that would allow law enforcement to temporarily confiscate property from individuals, arguing it was anti-constitutional. Kocharyan countered that the right to property isnt absolute and can be restricted by law. Kocharyan then spoke about the issue of parental intervention when it comes to discipling children. This clause has also sparked much controversy. Some say that yelling at children is psychological violence. We all do it. Yes, we criticize our kids. Thats natural, but we must do it in a way so as not to make the child suffer, Kocharyan said. Tzovinar Kostanyan, a representative of the Humanitarian Development International Civic Organization, wanted to know how the government planned to ensure that conditions in the shelters wouldnt be denigrating for domestic violence victims, and why couldnt victims see anyone they wished to while in the shelter. Kocharyan replied that it was normal to keep the location of a shelter a secret so that the perpetrators of domestic violence couldnt track down their victims. He added that those taken to shelters could leave whenever they wanted. Tsarukyan Alliance MP Vahe Enfiajyan asked why a domestic violence prevention council, envisaged by the bill, would be attached to the prime ministers office. Enfiajyan named a few such councils that havent convened a session for the past few years. Kocharyan responded that such councils serve as important links between the public and the government, but that he wasnt knowledgeable about all their activities. Tsarukyan Alliance MP Vardan Bostanjyan said that a segment of the public believes that the bills being debated are being forced on Armenia by certain outside powers. Its not easy to force anything on Armenia, Kocharyan replied. Yes, we have certain international obligations, notably from the U.N. However, we assumed them willingly. Condemning the murder of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) member Ravinder Gosain in Ludhiana, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday said the law and order situation has worsened with the change of guard in state. In a Press statement, AAP state co-president, Aman Arora said Amarinder Singh-led Congress government has failed to protect the residents of state and its not for the first time that a politically affiliated person has been killed in broad day light and incidents of this kind are happening repeatedly. The state police have failed drastically to get a clue of murderers in previous cases, he said adding that the Chief minister (CM), who holds the portfolio of home minister, is directly responsible for such kinds of happenings in the state. Arora all the illegal activities initiated by Shiromani Akali Dal leaders during previous government have been carried forward by the Congress leaders now. Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu had publically demanded from Amarinder Singh to hand over the home ministry to implement the law of land properly. It shows that the minister himself confirms the depleting law and order situation in state. he said. Arora suggested Amarinder to hand over home department to some other minister who is capable and be present in the state as the CM hardly visits the state. He said that the killers of priest Sultan Masih, Mata Chand Kaur of Namdhari sect and Jalandhar based RSS activist Jagdish Gagneja are still out of police net. The AAP leader demanded that the CBI must investigate the case as it is feared that all these incidents are attempts to derail the religious harmony of the state. The Yogi Adityanath government on Tuesday decided to revoke the accreditation of 2,682 madrasas in Uttar Pradesh after they failed to submit their details despite several reminders and extension of deadline on two occasions. According to reports, the UP government had in August given a months time to all madrasas in the state to register themselves. However, of more than 19,000 madrasas in the state, around 2,682 did not submit their details. The state government had sought information pertaining to the managing committee of the madrasas, teachers, students and other information by September 15. The madrasas in UP have been in the cross-hairs of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled state government which questioned their patriotism and sought video evidence of their mandatory singing of the national anthem. The Allahabad High Court on October 2 rejected a petition challenging a UP government order making singing of the national anthem compulsory in all schools, including madrasas, in the state. The Allahabad High Court stated that each one must respect the national flag and anthem, and thus there is nothing wrong in the decision taken by the state government. Fourteen people who claimed to be associated with little-known Azad Hindu Fauj were detained for allegedly bursting crackers outside Supreme Court premises. They all were found chanting slogans of Ram and Hindutva. Braja Kishore Singh, DCP, New Delhi said, All the detainers were taken to the Tilak Nagar police station. The place where they were bursting crackers was prohibited for all this work. No one is allowed to burst crackers in that area. And they were also throwing crackers here and there. Hence they were detained. The group was led by Satpal Malhotra who is also part of the outfit named. The incident happened in the wake of protesting against ban of trade of firecrackers. However, most of volunteers of the group ignored the intention behind the ban. Also they kept on raising slogans like Jai Shree Ram and Ram Ram. A senior officer told The Statesman, The police were informed about the protest outside D gate of the Supreme Court. The members, who claimed to be from an outfit Azad Hind Fauj, burst firecrackers outside the apex court. He further added, As many as 14 persons, including three women, were detained and taken to Tilak Marg police station, said a senior police officer. They were led by a man named Satpal Malhotra. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Tuesday took part in a foot march in Kerala against the alleged CPI(M) atrocities on the party cadre, days after he left the campaign midway after being summoned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two-week-long Janraksha Yatra that was flagged-off by Shah on October 3 from Kannur, will conclude on Tuesday. The northern district has seen several incidents of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers. According to sources, Shah will address the party workers in the evening. Shah was supposed walk past the home of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in the latters hometown in Kannur district on October 5, but had to abandon the rally midway after being asked to return to the national capital for a key meeting with PM Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. Senior BJP leaders, including Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath trooped in to Kerala to highlight the Lefts atrocities in Kerala under the LDF government. The BJP-RSS are protesting against the ruling CPI-Ms political violence and also against growing jehadi terrorism. The BJP has just one member in the 140-seat Kerala Assembly in veteran former Union Minister O. Rajagopal. A Border Security Force (BSF) commandant was critically injured by cattle smugglers in Tripura and had to be flown to Kolkata for treatment, an official said here on Monday. BSF troopers led by officiating Commandant Deepak Kumar Mondal of 145 Battalion were supervising guarding of the border along Bangladesh to prevent cattle smuggling. A vehicle of cattle smugglers hit the BSF officer, pushing him down a gorge, and he sustained grievous injuries, a BSF official said. Mondal, accompanied by a BSF doctor, was flown to Kolkata on Monday and admitted to a private hospital there. His condition is very critical. Mondal hails from West Bengal, the official added. The incident occurred late on Sunday night at Balerdepha under the Sonamura sub-division in western Tripuras Sepahijala district. Tripura police on Monday detained the vehicle and arrested the driver. Deputy Inspector General of Police (southern range) Arindam Nath rushed to the spot, 60 km south of Agartala, and inquired into the incident. Tripura shares an 856-km border with Bangladesh with large parts of the border riverine, mountainous and unfenced, which helps illegal immigrants, intruders and smugglers easily cross over. The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday put on hold the Centres decision to withdraw around 1,000 paramilitary personnel deployed in Darjeeling and Kalimpong to maintain law and order during the agitation for a separate Gorkhaland State. The court has put a stay on the Union governments order till October 27. As per the governments order, seven companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), including three women companies, and three companies of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel were to be withdrawn from Darjeeling from Wednesday. One company of paramilitary comprises 100 personnel. However, five additional companies of the CRPF will be in the hills to assist the state police force. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday accused the Centre of trying to destabilise and divide her state for the sake of the Darjeeling parliamentary seat. Darjeeling hills have seen a renewed bout of protests and violence on the revived demand for a separate Gorkhaland state. The centres decision, conveyed to Banerjee on Sunday, has riled her more, as the step came only two days after Police Sub-Inspector Amitava Malik was killed. One of Malta's most prominent investigative journalists the reporter who uncovered the country's Prime Minister's ties to the offshore business scandal revealed by the Panama Papers leak, was killed on Monday in a horrific car bomb attack. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, had just left her home in Bidnija, near Mosta, when a powerful blast broke her rental car into pieces that flew into a nearby field. One of her three sons heard the explosion and rushed outside. He was too late to save his mother. Caruana Galizia described by Politico website as a one-woman WikiLeaks had been tirelessly investigating and exposing high-level corruption on her Running Commentary blog. The BBC reported that Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat the target of Caruana Galizia's criticism called her killing a barbaric attack on a person and on the freedom of expression. Everyone knows Ms Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, as she was for others too, he said in a press conference held shortly after the attack. But he also said that there could be "no justification... in any way" for the car bomb. "I will not rest before justice is done," he added. Four months ago, Muscat's Labour Party won an election he called early because of the journalist's allegations that he and his wife were involved in the Panama Papers scandal. A stupendous leak of more than 11.5 million documents from the internal database of the offshore law firm Mossack Fonseca details offshore connections of world politic and economic figures and their relatives and associates. Caruana Galizia had revealed that Muscat's close allies, Minister Konrad Mizzi and the Prime Ministers chief of staff Keith Schembri and wife received money from a company owned by the Azerbaijan President's daughter Leyla Aliyeva. In the final entry on her blog, posted less than an hour before her death, she wrote that Schembri, had on several occasions been bribed into using his influence. What happened today is not an ordinary killing. It is a consequence of the total collapse of the rule of law which has been going on for the past four years, said the Nationalist Party leader Adrian Delia in a statement, according to The Guardian. The nationalist party is the country's main opposition party to Muscat's Labour party. Delia was also probed by Caruana Galizia for his alleged involvement in a prostitution scandal in London. The Deutsch Welle, Germany's public international broadcaster, reported that the blogger had complained to police two weeks ago about threats. Her family has filed a court application requesting that the investigative magistrate appointed to her case be removed. Judge Consuelo Scerri Herrera was another subject of the journalists reporting who criticized her for her dubious private life and her connections with politicians and media figures. Herrera had launchedjudicial procedures against Caruana Galizia for harassment. She agreed on Tuesday to abstain from conducting the investigation. One of Caruana Galizias sons, Matthew, a journalist and programmer who works for the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) which uncovered the Panama Papers leaks in 2014 and leads the project in collaboration with more than 100 medias. He wrote on Tuesday morning that This was no ordinary murder and it was not tragic. Tragic is someone being run over by a bus. When there is blood and fire all around you, thats war. We are a people at war against the state and organized crime, which have become indistinguishable. ICIJ director Gerard Ryle issued a statement on the organization's website stressing that Caruana Galizia has been at the forefront of important investigations in the public interest and has exposed offshore dealings of prominent political figures in Malta. According to the BBC, FBI officers have been dispatched to Malta to assist with the investigation. On Monday evening, thousands of people held candles in a vigil for the reporter in the town of Sliema. occrp.org Eight fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly fishing in their territorial waters off Thalaimannar coast today, the police said here today. According to information reaching here, the Sri Lankan Navy also seized the boat and have taken the fishermen to Thalaimannar district naval camp, they said. The fishermen are from Thangachimadam in Rameswaram, the police said. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Information Technology Minister M Manikandan told reporters in Ramanathapuram that the state government will take up the matter of the arrest with the Centre. On October 12, five fishermen from here were arrested by the Sri Lankan navy for allegedly fishing off Neduntheevu. Back in May 2015, when the Prime Minister Modi launched the nation-wide Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao (BBBP) campaign in Haryana, it was an embarrassing moment for the state, rather than an event to cherish. As many as 12 Haryana districts had lowest sex ratio in the country and even lowest three were also in the state. But less than two-and-half- years, Haryana appears to have turned it around with a missionary zeal thanks to a four-pronged strategy and active support of the Chief Minister (CM) Manohar Lal Khattar whose office is directly monitoring the implementation of the programme to save and educate the girl child. Sample this : From 1966 to 2015 (49 years) the sex ratio at birth (SRB) number of females per thousand males between 0-6 years had never touched the 900 mark. After the launch of BBBP, the ratio touched the 900 mark for the first time in the month of December 2015, SRB remained 900 in 2016 and the average SRB is 909 till August, 2017. We hope to achieve the figure of 915 (SRB) by December 2017. That way, we had a jump of 24 points in 2015-16, in 2016-17 we are expecting around 15 points jump. So over all, 39 to 40 point jump in two years is simply spectacular, Additional Principal Secretary to the CM, Rakesh Gupta told The Statesman. Gupta, who is in-charge of the BBBP campaign in CMs office (CMO), said despite the deep-rooted mentality preferring a male child over female, a change of mindset is taking place. I can say for sure that young would-be mothers and their husbands are feeling empowered to resist the family pressure and say no to SD citing the law which can lead to prison if caught doing sex determination, he said. Besides the political as well as administrative support, the above turnaround has been achieved thanks to a four pronged strategy to curb female feticide use of sting operations, decoy customers, co-ordination between concerned departments (health, education and women and child) and filing of First Information Reports (FIRs). While the first three have helped much, filing of FIRs against the accused has made a big impact. After an FIR is registered, the ultrasound machine (used for SD) gets sealed and the license of the concerned diagnostic center also gets suspended. Till the case remains, the machines remain sealed. If the accused gets relief from court, we immediately file an appeal to prevent them from getting functional again, an official said. Till 16 October, 506 FIRs have been filed against those indulging in SD since the launch of BBBP campaign in 2015. About 108 of these are inter-state including 50 in Uttar Pradesh, 28 in Delhi, 21 in Punjab and 10 in Rajasthan. Gupta said easy availability of SD centers has been curbed but from the cases detected every month, its clear that SD has not come to an end. Criminal minded people including some doctors are still doing it. But if earlier there were 10 SD cases, now there are only one or two. But if similar pressure remains for next three-four years, this will come an end with the changing mentality of the society towards the girl child, he added. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Tuesday ordered a probe into the death of an 11-year-old girl in Jharkhands Simdega district allegedly due to starvation. Santoshi Kumari, a resident of Karimati village of Simdega district, died on September 28. The death came to light after it was reported on Sunday by an organisation working on food security related issues. The mother had said in a statement that the girl died due to starvation as the family members did not get the food grain from the Public Distribution System shop as their ration card was not linked with the Aadhaar card. According to reports, the mother said the girl died crying Bhat-Bhat. Bhat means cooked rice in the local language. The Jharkhand Chief Minister on Tuesday visited Simdega and spoke with the Deputy Commissioner of the district. The DC informed that the girl died due to malaria and not starvation. Raghubar Das announced Rs 50,000 to the family of the girl as relief. He also directed the DC to look personally into the issue and submit a report. The Jharkhand government has made provisions for linking ration cards with Aadhaar to prevent fraud. What really compelled China to de-escalate in Doklam? First, let us examine the reasons that have been cited in the public domain since the pull-back some weeks ago. After weeks of raising the decibel level the government in Beijing realised that building the road up to the Jampheri Ridge was considered an existential threat by India due to its proximity to the Siliguri corridor and hence India was unlikely to budge; the coming 19th CPC meeting in November 2017 later on in the year and the BRICS meeting at Xiamen. In the last case it is possible that Putin advised his counterpart that without the participation of the Indian Prime Minister the summit would not measure up to expectation, considerably embarrassing the host country. Since Russia had maintained studied silence throughout the Doklam confrontation, the Russian Presidents advice would have been taken in good faith. Had BRICS become a damp squib it would have hurt the Chinese Presidents image. A few other allied reasons had also been discussed threadbare in the print and electronic media. Going beyond the confrontation and the peaceful pullback and, with the passage of time, it becomes possible to deduce the deeper reasons for the Chinese backing down, which in the public perception amounted to loss of face. The more cogent reasons are briefly discussed in the ensuing paragraphs. More than 70 days had already elapsed since the start of the confrontation. There were no signs of India backing down. Overblown rhetoric followed by threats in case India did not pull back had reached such a crescendo that had the confrontation continued much longer the agitated Chinese public would have mounted intense pressure for action that the government would have found it difficult to resist because in confrontations with other countries never had the Chinese gone so far as to tell its adversary that the latter would be taught a lesson it would not forget. For the countries of the region watching the situation apprehensively China would have appeared to be a paper tiger. On the other hand the masterly way in which India handled the situation by not matching the Chinese rhetoric gave the impression of quiet confidence that would normally result from a position of strength. The perception of position of strength, according to informed sources reporting from Beijing led to re-appraisal within the PLA, CMC as well as the top government echelons. The de novo re-assessment led to considerable doubt and misgivings about the outcome in case China went on to physically evict the Indian troops from their positions. It was realised that without military action the Indian side was not going to budge. Over the years the Chinese government had come to believe, as had the Indian defence establishment, that military asymmetry with China was too formidable for India to risk military confrontation. The asymmetry since Chinas accelerated growth had already been high enough to cause concern. Added to it was the fact that with much higher GDP and military budget the asymmetry would keep growing. The perception was shared by countries of ASEAN and East Asia, even beyond. This was generally the larger picture prior to the confrontation. It led to the belief in corridors of Beijing that beyond a point, with the nature of threats that amounted to an ultimatum, India had no choice but to withdraw from the Doklam Plateau. The deeper analysis mentioned in the previous paragraph when reduced from the macro-perception to the situation on the border in the face of Indias intransigence showed up the chinks in the Chinese armour that could have resulted in a debacle for the Chinese forces. An elaboration follows: The undeniable macro-level asymmetry simply would not work out on any border conflagration with India. Chinas overall military strength was that of a growing superpower attempting to match the US military power, if not globally, certainly in the South China Sea, East Asia and in the Pacific. Comparatively, over the years India had quietly built up its strength on its vulnerable border to a level that it felt confident of being able to take on anything that the Chinese would field against them. Several mountain divisions had been raised to reinforce the Arunachal Pradesh border that China had begun to claim since 2005, never before that. Simultaneously a mountain strike corps had commenced raising that although not fully operational for another two years or so had the potential for a limited repost of a type that India never had before. In sum India would have successfully blunted any offensive. Coming down to the level of the actual fighting most of the factors operative on the ground favoured India. Firstly, in the mountains missiles and other offensive weapons of the type were insufficient to dislodge the Indian troops. Commanders who have operated on those heights know that mountains eat up men. The only way to dislodge the opponent is to have much larger force for dislodging men in strong defensive positions with well-coordinated fire. The Indian side was sure that in hand-to-hand fighting at those altitudes the Indian soldier would be more than a match for the opponent. There are several reasons for such confidence. The Chinese have not fought any major land war for 38 years. On the Indian side there have been confrontations on the borders with its Western adversary very frequently, sometimes on a daily basis. Besides the Indian soldiers had proved their mettle against heavy odds in the Kargil War where the advantage lay with the opponent. Another important factor that is overlooked is morale and motivation. For the Indian soldier these are very high because they are fighting for their motherland. Not so the Chinese soldier. The Chinese border with India came into being after the occupation of Tibet a bare 70 years ago. After another century if Tibet were to remain under occupation the feeling may become different. Currently for the Chinese soldier Tibets border with India is not motherland. The motivational difference always matters in close fighting. Coming back the to the individual Chinese soldier located thousands of miles from his home there is further loss of motivation due to the one-child policy that has been in vogue for several decades. Being a single child fighting well away from home and worrying about his aged parents the motivation can never match the adversary confronting him with determination. To sum it up the situation appears to have ended by considerably discomfiting the Chinese leadership with the attendant loss of face within China and beyond its borders in neighbouring countries. It resulted from a series of miscalculations that need not be gone into in depth in the current paper. Briefly, the Chinese had not anticipated the Indian reaction on Bhutanese territory and the latters call to India. Over the decades the Chinese leadership had become accustomed to the fact that when pushed very hard the Indian leadership would step back. It had happened so often in recent years that the leaders in Beijing did not give it a second thought. Had they pondered a while before aggravating the crisis by raising the decibel level that made it difficult for them to de-escalate they would have realized that Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi was cast in a different mould. A last thought in this episode that must have crossed some minds at the highest level in Beijing would have been Indias military position in Sikkim (this writer had briefly commanded the East Sikkim watershed in 1991), which overlooks the Doklam Plateau. It is so formidable that any conventional military misadventure instead of resulting in 1962 could well have resulted in another 1979. That conceivably could have been the end of the Chinese leaders dream of a long tenure at the apex. (The writer, a retired Major-General of the Indian Army is the author of Third Millennium Equipoise.) Between North Korea and Iran, the likes of Donald Trump would appear to have chosen the relatively soft target. In terms of nuclear proliferation, Pyongyang has almost certainly surpassed Tehran. And yet by refusing to certify Irans compliance with the 2015 nuclear accord ~ the deadline was 15 October ~ the White House has made the outlook decidedly grim. President Trump has virtually binned his predecessors watershed foreign policy legacy. Not that his belligerent mood will upset the applecart quite yet; America alone cannot pull out of the deal not least because the European allies, in league with Russia and China, are also party to the engagement ~ indubitably Barack Obamas signal foreign policy achievement. Whereas Obamas initiative was embedded in pragmatism, Trumps governance has been marked by petulant rhetoric. Nonetheless, fears of a withdrawal are not wholly unfounded. Moscow and Beijing have clearly indicated they will act to preserve the deal in the immediate aftermath of the US refusal on certification. President Trump has called for measures to counter Irans destabilising actions, and to deny all paths to a nuclear weapon, though without much clarity as to what this might entail. None of this contradicts the agreement formally, but the world would have expected a sharper focus in US dealings with North Korea. Congress now has 60 days in which to decide whether to vote to reimpose sanctions whose lifting was a major provision of the quid pro quo contained in the agreement. It would be useful to recall that the 2015 deal offered the best possible assurances that Irans nuclear activities would be contained for roughly 10 years. It imposed strict international inspections, and provided strong incentives matched with sanctions relief. By defusing the nuclear crisis, it had helped consolidate the more pragmatic or moderate factions within Irans power structure and had helped to prevent the arms race in the Middle East from escalating. Arguably, Trumps stance may have turned the clock back. The US Presidents claim that Iran has violated the spirit of the accord is a nebulous defence of flawed geostrategy. Assessments conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency have reported no violations. In contrast, the White House is yet to cite empirical evidence to substantiate its contention. The agreement was solely focused on curtailing the regimes uranium enrichment programme and removing its ability to build a nuclear weapon. America will have to contend with what Iran calls a crushing response if its Revolutionary Guards are targeted by US sanctions. The diplomatic picture is unprecedented. The US President finds himself in unsplendid isolation not only vis-avis his close advisers but also in terms of Americas equation with the key international players. The Railways have been dithering for the past three years. The resources that were required were in no way forbidding. Pending the introduction of up to 200 km/h semi high speed DelhiMumbai and Delhi-Kolkata Rajdhanis immediately on commissioning of the freight corridors, selected routes such as the 500 km Chennai-Bengaluru-Mysore route and the 1,400 km DelhiMumbai corridor, recommended by the Japanese, could well have been introduced by now at a speed of up to160 km/h (like the Gatimaan on 200 km DelhiAgra route). As regards speed enhancement, the style of operations has been baffling. The Railways opted for detailed studies for constructing exclusive corridors for up to 350 km/h high speed rail (HSR) for bullet trains, on its long-distance arterial routes. The project is prima facie ill-conceived. Seven bullet train corridors have been identified and feasibility studies completed. Only one ~ the 500 km Mumbai-Ahmadabad route ~ has been given the go-ahead after Japan agreed to provide a $12 billion loan. Also to be examined is the severe impact of passenger cross-subsidisation. Newer strategies need to be devised for passenger business. In 2015-16, the Railways incurred a loss of Rs 487 for running a passenger train over a distance of one kilometre. The train, as an iconic symbol, traverses a facile and perilous route ~ often hiking freight charges and upper class, mostly AC, passenger fares. By cross-subsidising passenger business, the Railways have out-priced itself in the freight sector, thus tending to kill the goose that lays the golden egg. With low-cost air carriers flying high, it must refrain from raising AC train fares. As it is, upper class segment aggregates just 145 million journeys in a year, only 1.8 per cent of overall travel, but contributes more than 31 per cent (Rs 13,756 crore, in 2015-16) of total passenger earnings. The ordinary second class segment is largely responsible for the fiscal mess. The ordinary class II ticket costs 20 paise per km, which is less than one-third of the bus fare. Terminal congestion has emerged as a major constraint towards running a larger number of train services. Many of the freight terminals in the metropolitan areas have been squeezed out by passenger expansion, while those that remain face stringent restrictions on the movement of heavy road vehicles. Out of the 1,300 terminals managed by the Railways, only 500 handle more than 10 trains per month. These should really be served by at least one train a day. There are also some private sidings which could be better utilised as common facility terminals. In addition to some 15- 18 integrated logistics centres, 10-12 large stations need to put in place modern maintenance facilities, pending which a few existing terminals serving metropolitan towns need to be urgently improvised through the redevelopment of stations. The Railways need to explore the immense possibilities of identifying stations ideally located near places of pilgrimage and archaeological interest. This can be done in cooperation with the state government. It is imperative to cut costs. Transport charges have declined the world over. The Indian Railways must bring down its freight charges. Competitiveness is low because of high transaction costs. The paradox is striking. The Railway ministry invests in new technologies and persists with old staffing patterns. Several services and activities are outsourced, but there has been little or no reduction in the strength of permanent cadres. Multi-skilling is a mere a slogan. It is headed towards a demographic nightmare ~ its 1.434m pensioners (accounting for 34 per cent of working expenses) now exceed 1.325 working employees. Before long, salaries and pensions will swallow three-fourth of its budget in terms of working expenses. The Railways must first shed its perceived role of a departmental undertaking with public service obligation and, instead, perform as a corporate entity with inalienable responsibility to carry the nations freight and passengers adequately, efficiently and economically. There are ministries and programmes to look after social obligations, for which they have their own budgets. A rigid bureaucratic structure flies in the face of business ethos. The network in Russia, China, Germany, France, Britain, are now autonomous corporate entities, having shed their garb of government departments. In India, it has rather stubbornly stuck to its departmental character, inevitably perpetrating bureaucratic rigidities and wallowing in competitive frailties of babu culture. The management structure has been compartmentalised, and this has created departmental fiefs, rendering the system perilously obese and extortionist. Functional requirement must perforce be the overriding consideration in determining the apex management pyramid. The primary function must be production, marketing and operation of transport services. The top management posts require the incumbents to provide meaningful leadership to thousands of workers and managers in different disciplines. Like general command posts in the armed forces (Brigade, Division, Corps, or Army) held only by specially selected and trained officers mostly from the fighting arms, The general administration posts in the Railways, such as the Divisional and Zonal chiefs, need to be manned only by those who are duly exposed to 24X7 rigours of operations, maintaining interaction with customers. IR has made a welcome, though as yet a half-hearted beginning, towards functional integration by designating three Members of the Board for Traction, Rolling Stock and Infrastructure.. For the present, Boards composition could be a Member each for (i) Freight logistics services, (ii) Passenger business, (iii) Infrastructure (tracks, bridges, land, buildings, signalling, electrification, (iv) Dynamic Assets or Rolling Stock and equipment, (v) HRD, including industrial relations, vigilance, safety and security, (vi) Finance, including accounts and material management, and (vii) Chairman as the CEO for coordination and control, strategic planning, R&D. Minister Piyush Goyal needs to deftly, and firmly, handle matters in the Kafkaesque Rail Bhawan, then right across the sprawling system ~ its vast web of installations ~ some 45 workshops for POH, 100 loco sheds, 260 repair depots and sick lines, stations and yards, colonies and offices, its 65,000 strong protection force. Its not railways business to run schools, hospitals, or kitchens, printing presses or garment stitching. Some empires contrive to survive, for example, the mammoth 23,325 strong construction organisation, its over-6,000 work-charged officers posts unduly continuing, not without complicity of Finance. There have been too many routine and mundane functions taken up by the Board/Ministry, with some 140 Joint Secretary-and-above level incumbents crowding in Rail Bhawan. It needs to ruthlessly prune the number of officers and staff in the Board, to begin with, to at least half. The Bibek Debroy Committee noted that IRs efficiency was better with 9 zones than with 16. Today, given the emphasis on ITenabled flat management structures facilitating quick decisionmaking and efficient delivery, it would be prudent to streamline the traditional 4-tiered organisation into a 3-tiered system. The Railways can thereafter re-draw the geographical areas of the 16 zonal administrations, even increasing their number to, say, 22-25. A small beginning has been made for posting junior administrative officers at some major stations. All large station complexes, major freight depots and centres, maintenance workshops may be endowed with local area managers selected by a special body, if not UPSC, from the general administrative pool with delegated authority over all functionaries and disciplines. In due course of time, these managers will constitute the bulwark of administrative resource for the organisation. If duly nurtured and wisely led, the Indian Railways will bounce back, like China Rail. The latter had lagged far behind its Indian counterpart. In just 25 years, it has gone far ahead of the laggard and has emerged as the worlds numero uno. (Concluded) (The writer is Senior Fellow, Asian Institute of Transport Development, and former CMD, Container Corporation of India) Several hideouts of the Yemen-based al-Qaeda branch were hit by a series of airstrikes launched by US drones in the central province of al-Bayda, a military official said. The American unmanned aircrafts struck training camps and arms caches of the al-Qaeda terrorist group in different mountainous villages of al-Bayda province with more than 12 airstrikes, Xinhua quoted the local military official as saying on condition of anonymity. According to the Yemeni official, the American airstrikes precisely hit al-Qaeda locations and killed many terrorists. Residents in the province told Xinhua that large explosions were heard as a result of the American aerial bombardment and cars rushed to rescue the victims. Tribal sources said that areas controlled by the militants affiliated with the Islamic State terrorist group were also targeted by a number of US drone strikes. Well-armed fighters belonging to the terrorist group were deployed and surrounded the villages where the airstrikes took place, they added. The US air raids coincided with ongoing anti-terror military operations carried out by newly-trained Yemeni troops against Yemens al-Qaeda branch, known as al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) in Abyan. The US military has carried out several airstrikes against AQAP fighters in different provinces of the war-torn Arab country since US President Donald Trump approved expanded military operations against the group. The Yemen-based al-Qaeda branch, seen by the US as the global terror networks most dangerous branch, has exploited years of deadly conflict between Yemens government and Houthi rebels to expand its presence, especially in southeastern provinces. Yemens government, allied with a Saudi-led Arab military coalition, has for years been battling Iran-backed Shiite Houthi rebels for control of the impoverished country. The UN statistics showed that over 8,000 people, most of them civilians, have been killed in Yemens conflict since the Saudi-led coalition entered the conflict in 2015. The Turkish military plane carrying 35 wounded Somalis landed at an Ankara airport yesterday, where ambulances were at the ready to rush the victims to hospital. Turkey strongly condemned Saturdays bombing in Mogadishu which killed at least 276 people and left 300 injured. The blast occurred at a junction in Hodan, a bustling commercial district of the capital Mogadishu which has many shops, hotels and businesses. Turkey sent planes with medical supplies in the wake of the attack, and Health Minister Ahmet Demircan was in Mogadishu yesterday to coordinate the transfer of the injured. Turkey is a leading donor and investor in Somalia. In September, it inaugurated the largest foreign-run military training centre in Somalia, where local troops are due to take over the protection of a nation threatened by Shabaab jihadists. There has been no immediate claim of responsibility, but the Shabaab, a militant group aligned with Al-Qaeda, has carried out dozens of suicide bombings in its bid to overthrow Somalias internationally-backed government. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Organisation: PATH Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda About US: PATH is an international non-profit organization that drives transformative innovation to save lives and improve health, especially among women and children. We accelerate innovation across five platformsvaccines, drugs, diagnostics, devices, and system and service innovationsthat harness our entrepreneurial insight, scientific and public health expertise, and passion for health equity. By mobilizing partners around the world, we take innovation to scale, working alongside countries primarily in Africa and Asia to tackle their greatest health needs. Together, we deliver measurable results that disrupt the cycle of poor health. Job Summary: The Director, Vaccines and Immunizations will provide overall strategic direction and technical advice in Uganda and across countries and multiple geographies in areas of, designing, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of vaccines and immunizations programs. This person will sit within the Uganda Country Program office and work as a member of a multi-country team of experts with strong focus in design, implementation and evaluation of vaccine delivery programs, especially those supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance (www.gavi.org). The work will focus initially on human papillomavirus (HPV) and typhoid conjugate vaccines and expand to other priority vaccines of PATH, such as inactivated poliovirus, rotavirus, malaria, etc. Responsibilities: Key Duties andResponsibilities: Advisor Responsibilities; Provides overall strategic direction and technical advice in Uganda and across countries and multiple geographies in areas of, designing, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of vaccines and immunizations programs. Responsible for building and managing high-level critical relationships with national, regional and global level stakeholders. Serves as the subject matter expert in vaccines and immunization to other projects as required. Represents PATH at country, regional and global level technical working groups. Drives intentional collaboration with PATHs Product Development and Public Health Impact teams. Guides countries in work planning, budgeting and applications for bilateral and multilateral funding for specific programs. Supports countries to ensure compliance with donor rules, regulations, and protocols as well as applicable governments and PATH regulations and policies. Performs a responsible project management (RPM) role for ensuring the successful implementation of projects in relation to project deliverables and success criteria. Provides technical backstopping to ensure quality and efficiency in project implementation of project. Identifies and secures new funding and participates in proposal development aimed at strengthening national and global PATH programs. HPV vaccine responsibilities; Offer technical assistance to the Uganda National Expanded Program on Immunization for the planning, preparation, and implementation of the national rollout of HPV vaccination. Provide technical assistance to Gavi-eligible countries in the preparation and completion of successful applications for HPV vaccine support for national introductions Act as country liaison for PATHs HPV vaccine-related work in designated countries, at the direction of the project director/team lead. Work collaboratively with other international and country-level partners providing support for HPV vaccine delivery or evaluation. Provide team support in the collation and distillation of country reports and experiences of HPV vaccine delivery, in partnership with external stakeholders. Participate in weekly and monthly internal and external team teleconferences and meetings of project and country updates, problem solving, and work planning. Stay current with latest technical knowledge/experience regarding HPV vaccine introduction, and other new vaccines of the investment portfolio of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance (e.g., Japanese encephalitis, malaria, IPV, etc.). TCV vaccine responsibilities; Carry out assessments of acceptability and feasibility of TCV vaccines in selected countries in east or southern Africa, as a part of a global multi-country assessment. Work closely with country EPI programs and stakeholders to understand, map, and contribute information to the new vaccine decision-making process for TCV vaccines, including briefings with national immunization technical advisory group. Work closely with other international and country-level partners in broader activities of the project, such as vaccine effectiveness studies, advocacy & communications, and health economics, ensuring data generated from these activities are collated with other information used in the decision making process. Support coordination of PATH-led TCV vaccine activities in east or southern Africa. Actively participate in weekly and monthly internal and external team teleconferences and meetings of project and country updates, problem solving, and work planning. Stay current with latest technical knowledge/experience regarding TCV vaccines and epidemiology, and other new vaccines of the investment portfolio of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Broader PAI departmental and general team duties; Provide input to teams on technical matters related to vaccine introduction and system preparedness for vaccine implementation. Participate in phone calls and meetings with other PATH project staff to discuss relevant program and country support activities. Represent the project work at international, regional, and national meetings, where appropriate, and present findings from relevant projects. Travel domestically, regionally and/or internationally, as required, up to 20%. Experience: Qualifications, Skills andExperience: The ideal candidate for the PATH International Director, Vaccines and Immunizations career placement should hold an advanced degree (MD or PhD highly preferred) in public health, epidemiology, medicine, or related field. At least six years work experience in public health with experience in the field of immunization in developing countries is preferred. Significant exposure and experience employing epidemiological and operational research methods and approaches to design, conduct, and evaluate vaccination programs or vaccines in developing countries. Experience working on formative research and vaccine demonstration projects design and implementation in developing countries desirable. Field-based work experience in developing countries desirable but relevant work experience in developed countries with skills and knowledge that transfers to developing country contexts allowable. Knowledge of HPV and cervical cancer epidemiology, HPV vaccines, and reproductive health in developing country contexts. Knowledge of typhoid epidemiology and disease control efforts in developing country contexts. In-depth knowledge of immunization systems and country immunization programs. Specific knowledge of the structure and operations of the Uganda National Expanded Program on Immunization desirable. Extensive knowledge of vaccine-preventable disease epidemiology, qualitative and quantitative study design, and program evaluation of vaccine delivery. Demonstrated ability to conduct operational research and program evaluations in developing country contexts, preferably with vaccination programs. Proven ability to work in a multi-country, team-based organizational structure. Strong experience in country or community-based field experience with vaccine delivery. Demonstrated skills in writing scientific reports for governments, stakeholders, and non-technical audiences. Articulate communicator, excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong interpersonal and presentation skills. Computer literacy i.e. proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other information processing software. Working knowledge of data analysis software such as SPSS, STATA, Nvivo, Atlas.ti, EPI-Info, or others. Strong organizational skills, ability to work independently, and to competent track timelines and deliverables with minimal guidance. Flexibility to work within multiple time zones and multiple teams across the globe. Must have legal authorization to work in Uganda. How to Apply: All suitably qualified and interested candidates who wish to join PATH in the aforementioned capacity are encouraged to apply online by clicking the link below. th October 2017 Deadline: 27October 2017 find us on our Facebook page For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com orfind us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline Extremely impressed by her work, veteran actor Hema Malini recently lauded actress Deepika Padukone and called her "dream girl of today's age." The 31-year-old star had recently launched the biography of Hema Malini at a Mumbai suburban hotel on the latter's 69th birthday. Hema Malini's birthday was a big affair for the yesteryear actress as well as her fans, as it saw the unveiling of her biography The 'Dream Girl' of golden era, was very happy to have the Bajirao Mastani star to unveil her book as she is personally very fond of her. When the Sholay star was asked whom would she tag as Dream Girl of today's times, the actress instantly responded that it is "Deepika Padukone who deserves the tag of dream girl." The biography 'Beyond the Dream Girl' is written by veteran journalist Ram Kamal Mukherjee. He has earlier penned a coffee table book on Hema Malini some 15 years back. The biography also features a foreword by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The latest Rohingya refugee crisis sparked by violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state is a major security concern and India should take more initiatives to find a solution to this, Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Syed Muazzem Ali said on Monday. "Let us be very clear that the Rohingya issue is a major security concern in the region," Ali said during an interaction with the media at the Foreign Correspondents' Club here. "It is a fire in our neighbourhood and before it engulfs all of us, we must put it out," he said. He said these people uprooted from their hearth and homes were vulnerable to all kinds of radicalisation, and citing UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, said that children and women could also become victims of human trafficking. Ali said it was for the mutual advantage of both India and Bangladesh to work together to resolve this issue. "India has borders with both Myanmar and Bangladesh and India, and as the prime mover of the Bimstec process, it should take more initiative so that these people are returned to their homes where they could live in safety and dignity," he stated. According to the latest figures issued by the UN office in Bangladesh, around 537,000 refugees have entered the country since August 25 after the Myanmarese army launched a crackdown on the minority Rohingya community in view of a series of attacks on security personnel. The Rohingyas do not enjoy citizenship status in Myanmar and are sparingly given refugee status in Bangladesh. Ali also noted India's categorical statements in the UN Human Rights Council and acknowledged New Delhi's relief assistance for the refugees in Bangladesh. Stating that the citizenship of the Rohingyas was taken away by the Myanmar regime in 1982, he said these people could not go to schools for 35 years and neither could they go to any hospital. "We have no issue with Myanmar bilaterally. The only issue we had with Myanmar in the past was demarcation of the maritime boundary which we had also resolved through a UN arbitration," the High Commissioner said. "So it is for Myanmar to recognise their own citizens and settle the matter." The Bangladeshi envoy also said that the Rohingya issue would come up for discussion during External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit to Bangladesh later this month for the Joint Consultative Committee meeting. Kerala has been a fertile land for banks since the turn of the 20th century. In the 1920s and 30s, banks sprang up in Travancore and Kochi like sprouts in the monsoon. Most of them, however, did not last long, often owing to the lack of experience of the promoters. This did not deter a young lawyer from Mookkannoor, near Kochi, from realising his dream of running a bank. K.P. Hormis did not start a bank. In 1944, he got the controlling stake in Travancore Federal Bank at Nedumpuram near Thiruvalla, using Rs 2,000 he borrowed from his father. It was a deft movethe defunct bank's price suited his budget and it saved him the tedious process of starting from scratch. Within a year he increased the authorised capital of the bank 25 times and constituted a new board of directors. Then he shifted the bank to Aluva, and, two years later, changed the name to Federal Bank. Hormis was just 30 years old then. In the following three decades he was at the helm, he made the bank one of the most recognisable brands in the state. It was one of the growth engines of the states economy. The bank played a very important role in financial inclusion in Kerala, which has perhaps the highest bank branch density in the country, said C.J. George, managing director of the financial services provider Geojith. While most old-generation private sector banks that escaped nationalisation in 1969 struggled to get out of the bounds of the regions and communities that promoted them, Federal Bank did not fall into that trap. Hormis wanted his bank to have a professional leadership and a national outlook, and he had started branches in most big cities in the country. Four years after he retired, the bank brought in V.K. Shyamasundaran, who was with the Reserve Bank of India, as chairman and chief executive in a bid to accelerate growth. The growth, however, has never been reckless. And, the focus has always been on creating value. Now we are the 10th largest bank by market capitalisation, said Shyam Srinivasan, managing director and CEO of the bank. There are giant public sector banks which are valued less than Federal Bank. What it means is that we have created value for the customer, for the employee and for the shareholder. Size does not matter; it is the value you create. We are well on course to become meaningfully big. Srinivasan was at Standard Chartered before he joined Federal Bank in 2010. This affinity with value has put the bank in an advantageous position when most public sector banks are struggling to deal with bad loans and lack of capital. On the other hand, many new-age private players that grew leaps and bounds in the past two decades are burdened by the heft. While Federal Banks current growth rate is faster than that of the industry, it has a balanced mix of retail and corporate loans, which mitigates the risk of bad loans. Though nimble, Federal Bank by no means is a minnow. It has 1,252 branches and 80 lakh customers. Its market capitalisation, at Rs 22,881 crore, is bigger than public sector giants like Canara Bank, Bank of India and Union Bank. And, Srinivasan knows the need to grow. In the past five-six years we accelerated faster than any bank of our size, he said. Both organically and inorganically we should scale up. State-run banks, with a market share of around 70 per cent, dominate the industry, and new-age private banks follow with a quarter of the pie. Old private sector banks have about 4 per cent of the market share, and it has been on the decline for a long time. The big banks big growth, however, had been on the back of big loans to infrastructure projects and corporate housesthe main reason for their bad loan mess. This seems to be an opportunity for Federal Bank, which is well capitalised and has comparatively low non-performing assets. The bank seems to be up to it. Its service efficiency matches that of new-age banks, and it has not lost the personal touch in customer relations that community banks were known for. The biggest asset the bank possesses, however, is the technological capability. As early as 2000, it started 'anywhere banking' in Bengaluru, connecting all branches in the city. It started internet banking with the support of Infosys the same year, and ATM services the next year. Our theme is Digital at the fore, human at the core, said Srinivasan. Technology has enabled the bank to offer any service that a big bank provides. We cannot become a State Bank of India in terms of size; we do not want to be one, he said. But we can give any service that SBI offers. In the financial year that ended in March 2017, Federal Banks deposits grew 23 per cent to Rs 97,662 crore, and advances 27 per cent to Rs 74,086 crore. Profit after tax went up 74 per cent in the same period to Rs 853 crore. No wonder the banks stock has been a peach; its price doubled in a year. Armed with technology and funds, Federal Bank is set for expanding its national footprint. Of all the banks that want national branding, Federal Bank is ahead of the race with its forward-thinking MD and CEO, Shyam Srinivasan, said brand expert Harish Bijoor. The bank can add bigger value to what it has attempted to date. National branding is not just about the cosmetics; it is a deeper process. Challenges, however, are plenty. The industry is set for a change with the consolidation drive prompted by the government. But Srinivasan is unfazed. Conceptually consolidation is good at one level, but there will be equal opportunities for fleet-footed, medium-size players, he said. It is not like only the big would survive and all the small will fall apart. Those who are fit, efficient and well-capitalised will survive. Pakistani intelligence officials say suspected U.S. missiles have struck a home in the Kurram tribal region, killing 20 terrorists. Two intelligence officials said missiles fired from a suspected US drone hit a compound in the Mukbal area near the Afghan border Monday evening. They added that it was being used by militants from Haqqani network and that one of their top commanders, Sangeen Wali, was killed. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief media. The strike comes a day after roadside bombs killed four security troops engaged in a search operation for militants in Kurram. Pakistan considers the drone strike a violation of its sovereignty, while the U.S. accuses Pakistan of providing safe havens for militants, which Pakistan denies. (AP) One in two of us will get cancer at some stage in our lifetimes. Nearly every family will see a loved one battle the dreadful disease, where the chances of surviving for at least ten years are 50:50 on average. Thats why medical researchers, drugs companies and technology firms are ploughing billions of pounds into the quest to beat cancer. Some are trying to develop cures, while others are working on drugs to improve quality of life or technology that can help doctors spot signs of the illness before it turns malicious. Healthy investments: Medical researchers, drugs companies and technology firms are ploughing billions of pounds into the quest to beat cancer Because there are hundreds of different types of cancer, these efforts require enormous investment. Savers who put their cash behind the firms leading the charge can aid these efforts and get a boost for their pension or Isa. But picking individual firms can be risky, particularly in this field as one trial that goes wrong can send share prices crashing. So a fund or investment trust may be your best option. Firms helping to treat cancer and funds to invest Loxo Oncology is one of the companies attracting interest from stock market investors. One of its newest drugs is called larotrectinib, which is designed to treat patients with specific gene defects that cause cancerous cells to grow faster. A recent trial on 50 patients with various different types of advanced cancers revealed startling results: more than three-quarters saw their tumours shrink significantly, while more than a tenth went into remission. Loxo is still waiting for the drug to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. regulator. Ryan Hughes, of stockbroker AJ Bell, suggests investors interested in Loxo back Axa Framlington Biotech. The funds manager, Linden Thomson, has turned 10,000 into 28,860 in five years. New discoveries: San Francisco-based Grail uses so-called gene sequencing technology by a firm called Illumina, which maps human DNA to identify the genetic causes of cancer Prostate cancer kills more than 11,000 men in Britain each year, second only to lung cancer. One in eight men will suffer from the illness in their lifetime, according to Cancer Research UK, although the charity says, these days, 84 per cent of sufferers survive for at least ten years after diagnosis. Part of the reason for the higher survival rate is major advances in detecting the disease. Blue Earth Diagnostics, for example, has developed an injectable substance called Axumin, which is used to identify malignant cells in men who have already suffered from prostate cancer. In May, the European Medicines Agency approved the sale of Axumin in all EU states, as well as Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein. For investors keen to back Blue Earth Diagnostics with their money, Jason Hollands, of broker Bestinvest, recommends a fund called Syncona, which invests in a number of companies developing new cancer treatments. It invests 12.50 in every 100 of savers cash in Blue Earth and has turned 10,000 into more than 19,000 since it launched at the end of 2012. As well as investing in firms that battle cancer, it also donates 0.3 per cent of the funds cash every year to cancer and medical research charities such as The Institute of Cancer Research and Cancer Research UK. It also invests in a firm called Autolus, which is developing treatments for blood and other cancers that make use of the bodys immune system. Working with doctors, the firm extracts T-cells, a type of white blood cell, from patients and genetically engineers them to target and kill cancer cells when they are injected back into the body. In September, Autolus received 59 million of funding from a number of investors, including Syncona, to develop the next generation of T-cell therapies. Helping the cause: Savers who put their cash behind the firms leading the charge against cancer can aid their efforts Another firm working on new ways to detect cancer is San Francisco-based Grail, which this year raised close to $1 billion (750 million) to build a screening test that can detect the disease early. This is vital because the earlier you can spot cancer, the better the chances of survival. Grail uses so-called gene sequencing technology by a firm called Illumina, which maps human DNA to identify the genetic causes of cancer. Darius McDermott, of broker Chelsea Financial Services, recommends Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust, which invests 5.70 in every 100 of savers money in Illumina and 90p in Grail. It has turned 10,000 into 34,080 in five years. AstraZeneca one of the worlds largest pharmaceutical firms spends nearly half of its 4.5 billion research budget every year developing anti-cancer drugs. In the summer, negative results from a lung cancer trial wiped more than 10 billion off the companys value. But it has been buoyed by positive trial results for its drug Tagrisso, which was found to halve the risk of death or progression of certain types of lung cancer in patients. It has been awarded so-called breakthrough status by the U.S. drugs regulator, meaning it could be approved faster. Over the past five years, AstraZenecas share price has risen 75.1 per cent to 5,169p. Ben Yearsley, of adviser Shore Financial Planning, tips Woodford Equity Income, managed by Neil Woodford, Britains best-known fund manager, for savers who want to invest in the Cambridge-based firm. The fund invests 8.63 in every 100 of savers cash in AstraZeneca, making it the funds biggest stock pick. While Mr Woodfords fund has struggled over the past year, it has turned 10,000 into 12,893 since it launched in June 2014. p.thomas@dailymail.co.uk Amazon, Apple and other tech titans are seeking to steal payments business from banks, the boss of Barclays has said. Jes Staley warned that firms outside the finance world had spotted a moneymaking opportunity in the transactions handled by lenders. There were 14.9bn purchases on credit, debit and charge cards last year, according to industry body UK Finance up 10.7 per cent on a year earlier. Barclays boss Jes Staley warned that firms outside the finance world had spotted a moneymaking opportunity in the transactions handled by lenders When payments are made, the companies typically take a fee and internet firms are casting an envious eye. 'There are some tectonic shifts going on, driven by tech and the political environment,' Staley said at a meeting of the Institute of International Finance in Washington DC. 'All the banks are very focused on the payments space. That may be where the battleground of finance is fought over the next 15 years.' It comes as lenders prepare for a new European Union rule which will force them to hand customers' financial information over to rivals. MPS ATTACK RBS BOSS MCEWAN Furious MPs have blasted Royal Bank of Scotland's boss after he said the lender is being unfairly criticised. Entrepreneurs say their businesses were deliberately wrecked by RBS's infamous global restructuring group but chief executive Ross McEwan said last week there was 'absolutely no evidence' for this claim and alleged victims should sue. The all-party parliamentary group for fair business banking's Lord Cromwell said it 'exemplifies what is so wrong with the aggressive and heavy-handed RBS approach to its customers'. The Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2), will next year allow merchants such as Amazon to take cash directly from buyers' bank accounts if they give permission without going through a third party service such as Visa or Paypal. In theory, this should save both sides money by cutting out hidden fees. PSD2 will also allow companies to offer online services that show all a customers' bank accounts in one place, even if they are with several different lenders. Apple Pay and Google's Android Pay already allow customers to transfer money using their smartphone instead of a bank card. There have been persistent claims that tech companies are planning a battle with the banks. In February, it was rumoured that Amazon could mount a bid for US credit card pioneer Capital One. US internet behemoths are among the few companies with deep enough pockets to challenge the biggest players, though some City sources suggest tough regulation could put Amazon and Apple off. It took seven years, a debilitating ear condition, a lot of self-reflection, and hundreds of hours agonizing over songs in a DIY studio. But at long last, the pop singer Anna Wang thinks shes found her groove. Accountants Ernst & Young has been fined 1.8m by the Financial Reporting Council ERNST & Young has been fined 1.8mILLION by Britain's accounting watchdog for failures in its audit of a tech company. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) said the fine was linked to the firm's audit of Tech Data Limited for the year to January 31, 2012, which fell 'significantly short' of standards. It came after the regulator launched a probe in 2014. The FRC said yesterday that Ernst & Young (EY) and Julian Gray, a senior statutory auditor and partner, had been fined and reprimanded. Gray was fined 90,000, a figure cut to 59,000 for 'mitigating factors'. A proposed fine of 2.75million on EY was also discounted to 1.8million for similar reasons, and it will pay 225,000 towards costs. The watchdog said the audit of Tech Data failed standards in three areas, including 'failures to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole were free from material mis-statement, failures to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence and failures to exercise sufficient professional scepticism'. It comes as the Britain's big four accountancy firms KPMG, Deloitte, PwC and EY are under the spotlight after a number of scandals. KPMG is facing criticism for its work for HBOS nearly a decade ago, despite being cleared of misconduct by the FRC. PwC is also being probed for its audit of scandal-ridden BT Italia, where accounting irregularities led to a 530million writedown this year. Tech Data, which sells technology and logistics services to businesses, did not respond to a request for comment. As a Lloyds Banking Group shareholder I arrived back from the International Monetary Fund annual meeting in Washington to receive my first dividend payment in almost a decade. Far from being a moment of triumph, it was a reminder of how the bank, which once offered the best dividend in the FTSE 100, was laid low by the egotistical takeover of HBOS in 2008, and the subsequent recapitalisation. Investors and employees have paid a heavy price for the ambitions of former chairman Sir Victor Blank and his American chief executive Eric Daniels, and the horror still goes on. The claim for around 600million of compensation brought by a small group of institutional investors may look like a nuisance. Lloyds, which once offered the best dividend in the FTSE 100, was laid low by the egotistical takeover of HBOS in 2008, and the subsequent recapitalisation But the ambulance-chasing litigators Jersey-based Therium, who are taking on the legal risk, are doing the bigger body of shareholders a huge favour. It may seem that the case looks thin and litigants have adopted a scattergun approach. This includes trying to lay hands on Government documents which shed light on Peter Mandelsons role as former Trade Secretary in nodding through the deal. They also suggest Lloyds bosses should have known the horror that they were buying into when taking on HBOS and explained it fully to shareholders. Lloyds has been required to hire the big guns, in the shape of Herbert Smith and Helen Davies QC (who previously acted for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich), to defend the action and to finally bring some big players in the financial crisis Blank, Daniels and Financial Services Authority chief executive Sir Hector Sants to court. Some of the claims look fanciful. HBOS allegedly was engaged in Libor manipulation. Maybe it was, but that couldnt have been known at the time of the rescue bid. Lloyds must be fairly confident of dodging the bullets otherwise it would not be risking the negative publicity which will come with a 14-week court case. As far as one can tell, the current Lloyds bosses Lord Blackwell and media-shy chief executive Antonio Horta-Osorio are in no mood to settle. Royal Bank of Scotland has settled a similar shareholders suit but was much more culpable, having issued a misleading prospectus when it did its rights issue to existing shareholders in spring 2008. If there is a lingering worry for Lloyds it is that the litigants have found a smoking gun. The suspicion is that Lloyds has not been as honest with stakeholders as it should be. When confronted with the notion that up to 40,000 jobs could go after the merger Lloyds retreated behind the battlements. That turned out to be an understatement as Daniels, and then Horta-Osorio, engaged in ruthless cost cutting. There also remain questions about Lloyds handling of the victims of fraud at HBOSs Reading branch. Release of compensation to victims has been slow and, as worrying, there may have been a cover-up over who knew what and when. Lloyds may be back on the dividend list and raking in oligopoly-style profits. But there are issues of integrity that remain unanswered. Saudi retreat After all the hype over an initial $100billonn (75.5billionn) public offering for Saudi Aramco it looks as if the 1.5trillion privatisation of the century may never happen. The pet project of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was regarded as important enough for the Financial Conduct Authority to create a new category of premium sovereign wealth fund quotation in an effort to entice it to the City. The London Stock Exchange and the New York Exchange have been in arm-to-arm combat for the quote. What has been underestimated is Saudi Arabias preference for secrecy. Even a premium listing requires Aramco to come up with meaningful earnings data and audited oil reserves. That looks a step too far. Riyadh is now talking about a potential private offering, with the aim of bringing China in as an investor. But two secretive autocracies ganging up would be a retreat from the regimes modernisation promises. Weinstein payday Harvey Weinstein may have vanished in a haze of sex allegations but his studios could live on. Private equity firm Colony Capital, which bought Miramax from Weinstein, has opened takeover talks. Capping legal liabilities will be a big sticking point. Jenny Knott has resigned as head of Nex's post-trade arm A top executive has quit Nex Group after the trading firm warned profits would be lower than expected. Jenny Knott has resigned as head of the post-trade arm, which provides information and cost-saving services to clients. Two weeks ago, Nex said that restructuring costs in the division were higher than expected in the six months to September 30, meaning profit margins of 20 per cent rather than last years 29 per cent. The departure of Knott, who has been replaced by chief operating officer Ken Pigaga, follows the departures of the finance chief, two division heads and two senior executives in the past 15 months. Nex, run by City veteran Michael Spencer, is an electronic trading company created out of former firm Icap. Spencer sold Icaps voice-broking arm to rival Tullett Prebon for 1.3billion. Tullett then changed its name to TP Icap. There is speculation a bid for Nex could be made by the London Stock Exchange or the Deutsche Boerse. Shares fell 0.4 per cent, or 2.5p, to 658.5p. Easyjet are poised to obtain some of Alitalia's assets after they were put into administration Airline EasyJet yesterday submitted a bid for some of Alitalias assets. The low-cost carrier revealed its intentions after an earlier announcement by Lufthansa which said it hoped to establish a new Alitalia and that it had also put in an offer for parts of the insolvent airline. Alitalia filed to be put into administration earlier this year for the second time in less than a decade after workers rejected wage cuts linked to a 1.7billion rescue plan. The airline had been hit by a decline in tourism after terrorist attacks hit Europe. EasyJet said there was no certainty that any transaction would proceed and it will provide an update if and when appropriate. British MPs today tore into a Paris-based think-tank for suggesting Brexit should be reversed to save the British economy - branding it the return of 'project fear'. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said quitting the EU in a disorderly way could cripple the UK economy. And it said holding a fresh referendum to stay in the bloc would be 'positive' for UK business. Speaking at the launch of the bleak report in London today, OECD secretary general, Angel Gurria, compared Brexit to the Blitz. But a string of MPs slammed the assessment saying it is yet another example of Brexit gloom from an organisation hellbent on talking down Britain's economy. And a Government spokesman hit back at the report and said: 'We are leaving the EU and there will not be a second referendum.' Chancellor Philip Hammond, pictured today at the launch of the OECD report, said the government wants a transitional deal to ensure there is no Brexit cliff edge and protect businesses The OECD was forced into a humiliating climbdown in March when it upgraded its economic forecast for the UK after overestimating the negative impact of Brexit. A list of other dire predictions of about how the British economy would cope after the referendum have been torn up as businesses outperformed gloomy forecasts. Peter Bone, Tory MP for Wellingborough, said the Parisian organisation is trying to 'interfere' with British politics. DIRE WARNINGS...AND REALITY In May last year, the Bank of England warned a vote to leave the EU could spark a recession. In June last year, the Treasury said a Brexit vote would push unemployment up by between 520,000 and 820,00 The Treasury also said the economy would shrink for four quarters in a row In August last year, the Bank of England predicted unemployment would hit 5.5 per cent this year Official figures yesterday showed that the jobless rate has fallen to a 42-year low of 4.3 per cent The number of unemployed has fallen by 175,000 in the last 12 months to 1.46million The number in work has risen by 379,000 in the last 12 months to a record 32.1million Advertisement He told the Mail Online: 'Britain is the fifth biggest economy in the world, we have everything going for us if we come out of the EU. 'The government is going to publish its plans for what a no deal Brexit will look like which is what we should do. 'The idea that this would be a catastrophe or the end of the British economy is yet another example of project fear. 'This organisation shouldn't say things which aren't true. They are trying to interfere with British politics which is pretty poor show on their part.' While fellow Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg, the Tory MP for North East Somerset also slammed the report. He told the Mail Online: 'The OECD is a leading advocate of Brexit pessimism that has made a series of politically motivated and erroneous forecasts.' Andrew Bridgen, Tory MP for North West Leicestershire, told the Mail Online EU German manufacturers and French farmers have more to lose from a no deal Brexit than Britain. He said: 'It would be a catastrophe for German manufacturers. The OECD should be urging the EU to move the negotiations on to trade talks. 'We buy more from the EU than we sell to them.' And he slammed the think-tank for 'trying to interfere in a sovereign democratic decision' by suggesting Brexit could be reversed. While Tory MP Shailesh Vara (North West Cambridgeshire) told the House of Commons some organisations are trying to scaremonger. Eurosceptic Tory MPs Peter Bone (pictured left) and Jacob Rees-Mogg (pictured right) both hit out at the report - saying it is yet another example of 'Project Fear' He told MPs: 'Those who threaten economic Armageddon if we leave the EU without a deal are effectively engaging in Project Fear Two. 'Project Fear One did not materialise and there is a possibility that Project Fear One will not either.' In a very gloomy report about post-Brexit Britain, the OECD said the uncertainty of negotiations is likely to leave the UK without a free-trade agreement with the EU when we quit the bloc in March 2019. It also claimed Britain's economic prospects could be further hit by a 'disorderly Brexit' if negotiations between the EU and UK are cut short. HAMMOND LOSES TOP AIDE AS BUDGET LOOMS Jane Ellison has quit as a Treasury aide as the Budget looms A senior aide to Philip Hammond has quit just weeks ahead of the Budget. Jane Ellison, a former Treasury minister joined No11 as an aide after losing her seat in the election. But she has reportedly handed in her notice, although she will remain in post until after the Budget on 22 November. She has taken a role at the World Health Organisation as Deputy Director-General for Corporate Operations. It comes as the Treasury are working furiously to draw up a Budget that will win over voters who deserted the Tories at the election. Mr Hammond has reportedly been warned he cannot make any mistakes in the all-important set piece. Advertisement If Britain leaves with no deal it could trigger a sharp reaction by financial markets, sending the exchange rate to new lows and leading to a downgrade in the UK's sovereign rating, it warned. The report states: 'Business investment would seize up, and heightened price pressures would choke off private consumption. 'The current account deficit could be harder to finance, although its size would likely be reduced,' the report warned.' And the OECD suggested the UK could avert the economic risks if it goes back on last year's historic referendum and stays in the EU. It states: 'In case Brexit gets reversed by political decision (change of majority, new referendum, etc), the positive impact on growth would be significant.' Mr Gurria, OECD chief, compared the challenges of Brexit to the Blitz. He said: 'It's [Brexit] going to work, you are going to make it work. 'The only question is how long will it take? Are there costs attached? Yes there are, yes there will be.' He added: 'What was that thing Churchill said - stay calm and carry on. This is like the Blitz except fortunately not the Blitz.' But the think-tank also admitted quitting the bloc could 'prove more favourable' than assumed in its report and that it could boost trade and growth. It said this would require 'an ambitious EU-UK agreement and a transition period to allow for adjustment to the new agreement'. It added: 'Meantime, however, uncertainty could hamper domestic and foreign investment more than projected and hurt consumption even more were the exchange rate to depreciate further.' Speaking today, Chancellor Philip Hammond said Britain is committed to getting a good Brexit deal which avoids a 'cliff edge' for businesses. He said: 'The government is clear that we....want a special partnership with the EU maintaining close economic ties after we leave the union. 'We know that by allowing a time-limited transition period to avoid a disruptive, cliff-edge exit form the European Union we can provide that certainty for businesses up and down the UK and the EU.' OECD chief Angel Gurria, pictured today, compared the challenges of Brexit to the Blitz, which saw bombs from Hitler's forces rain down on London during the Second World War The report also warns that productivity is lagging behind in Britain and has made 'no meaningful contribution' to UK output since 2007. And it highlighted that labour productivity was also weakest outside of Greater London and the South East of England. This kind of disparity between regions and workers 'may lead to, or be the result of, important differences among people in terms of income and wealth, jobs and earnings, and education and skills.' Responding to the OECD report, a spokesman for the Treasury said: 'Increasing productivity is a key priority for this Government, so that we can build on our record employment levels and improve people's quality of life.' As Chancellor before the EU referendum vote, George Osborne got the Treasury to pump out a series of dire predictions about Britain's economic prospects outside the Brussels club. But the gloomy predictions failed to materialise as British business continued to boom and outperform the forecasts. After the Majestic canceled a show because of allegations of sexual assault, they decided to put on an event for the community to share stories of sexual assault and provide support for survivors. MANZINI Four years later, Mr Swaziland is back! Enlivening the Mr Swaziland title, Linda Chester was revealed by Pageant Swaziland (Pageant SD) as the one who will take over the managerial position of hosting the next Mr Swaziland. Chester is a well-known model who has been part of Pulse Modeling Agency. Chester said the reason why he decided to take on the challenge was because he saw the niche in the industry of having Mr Swaziland. Every time I would go to the gym, I would notice just how much we are sleeping on some good looking men who can carry well the title of being Mr Swaziland. However, it is not just about the looks of course, but more about what that particular individual can do for the nation to instill change and encourage the youth to doing something towards bettering their lives. Hopefuls So far, I have a few candidates in mind but after we launch Mr Swaziland sometime in November will be out and about scouting for other hopefuls, said Chester. However, it was made clear that all pageants to be run in the country will be overseen by the committee, Pageants SD which consists of new members Doreen Mapasures, Raksha Aiyathurai and Catrien Potgieter. Mapasures said that she was glad to have been given the opportunity to be part of Pageants SD as she has worked with numerous pageants before and that with her experience she is looking forward to contribute to the growth of Pageants Swaziland. On the other hand, Raksha said that she has worked with various types of ladies in other projects and that since she has been approved in the committee she has noticed just how much her personality with the other women gel and she was looking forward to sharing ideas that will also bring about positive change and growth in as far as pageantry in the country is concerned. MANZINI - Unions have threatened to shut down all government departments as civil servants will march to deliver a petition to the god within government. This decision was taken by public sector association (PSAs) during their day-long meeting which was held at SNAT centre yesterday where they discussed the issue of pay rise for senior government officers. Again, this decision was taken regardless that Form III and V pupils were writing their external examinations. In a press conference, which was held the SNAT centre yesterday afternoon, the union leaders said they were shocked by governments behaviour and attitude. They said it made them believe that there was a god baal within government and was bigger than the negotiation table as he undermined it together with fair labour practice. They said they were not sure yet who the baal was but they would find out before Tuesdays march because they have to march to him to deliver their grievances as civil servants. When announcing the big march, Bheki Mamba, the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU) president said the alarming pay rise for senior government officers directly contradicted the 2016 salary review collective agreement, which government signed with them. In the collective agreement, Mamba said they agreed with government that if there would be concerns regarding the salary review, there would be appeals which would be done by another consultant. However, through the powers of baal, government selected some matters in the about 200 pending appeals on the negotiation table and increased their salaries behind the scene; without the knowledge of the round table, Mamba said. MBABANE Compensate me, you ruined my daughters future! This was said by a teacher of Siyendle High School, who is suing his daughters ex-boyfriend for abducting her, resulting in the girl dropping out of school. The teacher, Fana Fakudze, yesterday informed the court that her daughter, Nonjabulo, had to drop out of school because after the incident, everyone in the community was ridiculing her. According to Fakudze, not only was her daughter lampooned by community members but she was also mocked by her teachers at school. This allegedly resulted in her not attending school. He now wants the court to direct the boyfriend, Dumisani Mkhonta, who is a civil servant, to compensate him with E30 000. This amount, according to Fakudze, was in respect of school expenses, general damages occasioned by the disappearance of the child, stress, out of pocket expenses for travelling to search for the minor when she had disappeared. He alleged that when the incident happened, Nonjabulo, who is now 25 years old, was doing Form V at Holy Rosary High School. Fakudze told the court that on or about July 17, 2010, his daughter disappeared from home and a search commenced. He told the court that Nonjabulos disappearance was reported to the Mankayane police. It was a Friday when she disappeared and she only returned home on Sunday afternoon, submitted Fakudze. He pointed out that upon her return, they tried to ask her where she was from but instead of responding she kept on crying. We then called the police who took her to the police station and it was after a lengthy questioning that she disclosed to them that she had been at Mkhontas place, alleged the applicant. MBABANE Yet another domestic worker has made scathing allegations against her employer, that she forced her to undergo an HIV test. Procedurally, a person takes an HIV test voluntarily, following vigorous counselling sessions, but it was not the case for *Thuli, who failed to wiggle her way out of the hospital facility when her employer allegedly coerced her to test for HIV. This was after the female employer allegedly found *Thuli breastfeeding her (employers) baby who was two months old at the time. *Thuli alleges that she was made to undergo the HIV test under duress. The name of the employer will not be revealed as she has not been charged as yet. Her further particulars, including name, will be disclosed once the matter goes to court. Narrating the events leading to the HIV test, *Thuli said her boss, an employee of one of the banking institutions, approached her on September 22, accusing her of breastfeeding the baby. She called me into her bedroom and told me about the breastfeeding claims. She said there was a problem and we needed to go and see her doctor, she alleged. According to *Thuli, she questioned her boss where she had got the information that she had been breastfeeding the baby from, further explaining to her that such never happened. However, *Thuli alleged that her employer forced her to take all her belongings and told her that they would be starting at her doctors private clinic in Manzini. I duly complied and took all my belongings and we boarded a taxi to the clinic, she alleged. She said what traumatised her the most was when her employer had a private chat with the doctor before she was ushered in. At that moment, I was crying because I was confused of what was happening and was hurt by what my employer had falsely accused me of. I was still clueless that I was actually at the health facility to undergo an HIV test, she alleged. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Waterford Two towns opposed to a proposed massive expansion of the Colonie landfill are teaming up with the environmental group Riverkeeper to begin water testing of the Mohawk River near the landfill. "We have felt that such testing should have been part of this review from the beginning," said Waterford Supervisor Jack Lawler on Tuesday. "We are tired of waiting for the state to do it." Lawler said his town and Halfmoon, which both oppose the landfill expansion, welcome the support from Riverkeeper. He said sampling should show what pollution, if any, might be coming into the river from the landfill. Riverkeeper has a long history of testing the Hudson River, primarily for sewage contamination, and recently added the Mohawk River to its testing schedule. Capt. John Lipscomb, who commands the Riverkeeper patrol boat, said it will be on the Mohawk near the landfill on Friday to take river water samples to help learn "what might be escaping from the landfill into the Mohawk." Lipscomb said the group wanted to get involved because "the communities in these two towns are so clearly opposed to the expansion. While our primary client is the Mohawk River, we much prefer working with community partners." Halfmoon Supervisor Kevin Tollisen could not be reached for comment. The state Department of Environmental Conservation is still reviewing the town's proposal to expand the dump in a 132-acre section of the already capped landfill called Area 7. There, new trash could ultimately be piled up to eight stories high during the next two decades. Part of that site includes 50 acres where hazardous waste was dumped by Colonie until the early 1980s. DEC classifies this area as an inactive hazardous waste site. Waterford and Halfmoon officials are concerned downward pressure caused by tons of new trash could squeeze out loose "alluvial" soils and possibly existing pollution from the old hazardous waste site underground in the direction of the nearby river. Engineers hired by the town are recommending that the ground beneath the proposed expansion be stabilized by injecting a type of cement deep underground, which could relieve pressure from pushing out potential pollution through the ground toward the river. Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan's office issued a statement: "The landfill operates under a comprehensive environmental monitoring program for both groundwater and storm water. Quarterly reports are submitted to DEC and that information is publicly available through the agency." In 2011 Colonie agreed to lease the 44-year-old landfill to Waste Connections, Inc., of Texas. The 25-year agreement gave Colonie $23.8 million up front, plus another $33.5 million over the life of the deal, with cash incentives for expanding the facility. The town applied for the landfill expansion in August 2016. DEC asked for more information and took public comments through early July 2017. DEC is now reviewing the town's proposal, said agency spokesman Rick Georgeson. Until the state decides on the new permit application, Colonie could operate the landfill under its current permit and a permit extension until the landfill reaches its current permitted capacity. The current permit expires at the end of December. Associate Editor John Nichols has been with The Capital Times since 1993 and has become one of Wisconsin's best-known progressive voices. He is the author of seven books on politics and the media and he also writes about electoral politics and public policy for The Nation magazine. ATF itself has declined to comment about its bump-stock decisions. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate ALBANY Newspaperman Harry Rosenfeld, who played a key role in the Washington Post's Watergate coverage before leading the Times Union, has donated a collection of documents spanning his career to the New York State Library. Among the donated writings, the collection includes correspondence with celebrities and newsmakers from throughout Rosenfelds career. Some of the items date from his time at the New York Herald Tribune before it ceased publication in the mid-1960s, as well as documents from his work as the Post's metro editor during the Watergate scandal. "I thought they might be of some use," Rosenfeld said of his decision to donate his papers. State Education Department officials announced the gift Tuesday, along with a collection of 3,000 books from the library of the Holland Society of New York that expands the State Librarys large local history and genealogy resources. So far, 16 boxes of documents from Rosenfeld's archive have been sent to the library, and more will be on the way. Some of the documents were used during the composition of Rosenfelds 2013 memoir, From Kristallnacht to Watergate: Memoirs of a Newspaperman (SUNY Press). He is currently working on a book about the challenges facing the newspaper industry. Rosenfelds files also include correspondence, desk diaries and files related to his position as editor of the Times Union and Knickerbocker News from 1978 to 1996. He currently serves as editor at large at the TU, where he remains a member of the editorial board. The Rosenfeld collection is open for research use pending the written consent of the donor or his heirs. The Holland Society collection will expand an already well-established series of documents and works about the regions early Dutch settlers. Moving our societys library to the (State Library's) New Netherland Research Center was the best way to further our mission of promulgating knowledge of the Dutch colonial period, said Andrew Terhune, president of The Holland Society. The Holland Society Library collection includes published and unpublished materials with information dating from the 17th through 20th centuries. The collection is largely genealogies and family histories, local histories, journals and church records. "We're grateful to acquire these two collections at the New York State Library," said state Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU SCHENECTADY - The American Revolution Round Table: Hudson-Mohawk Valleys is hosting a free symposium on the war at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11. at Schenectady College Community College, 78 Washington Ave. The symposium is based on the book "Theaters of the American Revolution." It will feature five nationally known experts that will discuss the various arenas where the war took place. ALBANY City residents interested in learning more about the state's proposed microgrid in the Sheridan Hollow neighborhood will get their opportunity on Wednesday, Oct. 25. The state Power Authority and the Office of General Services are hosting a public information meeting to discuss plans for what's described as a cleaner, more efficient cogeneration plant at the former garbage incinerator site on Sheridan Avenue. Currently Reading Schumer uses Pence visit to Buffalo to attack Trump tax package This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Middleburgh After some four decades of protecting an iconic Schoharie County mountain and its hiking trail, a volunteers group is donating the property to the state. At about 1,200 feet elevation, Vroman's Nose dominates the view in the Schoharie Valley off Route 30 near Middleburgh. It has a popular hiking trail that while only about three-quarters of mile long, offers spectacular views from its 600-foot cliffs. After 34 years of protecting the property, the not-for-profit Vroman's Nose Preservation Corp. has decided to donate it to the state, said corporation President Susan Vroman Walker, who is a descendant of the family for which the mountain is named. "We are a small volunteer group, family members, the county historical society," she said Monday. Walker and some other corporation members live in other states, and the "local directors have really been doing yeoman's work for years, for which we are so grateful. But we have been doing this for 34 years, and we are now 34 years older." Now, the group has decided that "the next level of protection is needed for Vroman's Nose. New York State is the best option, for the mountain and for the public," she said. "It will remain forever wild." The property is prominent in the history of the region, figuring in stories about Revolutionary War patriots fighting against the British. The top of the mountain features a large flat area commonly known as the "dance floor." The summit trail also connects with the Long Path, a 350-mile trail between New York City and Albany County. Walker said the trail is drawing more hikers than ever, thanks to Facebook (the mountain has its own page), Wikipedia, and other social media. Visitors have increased from 4,000 in 2003 to nearly 13,000 in 2017. Walker said the not-for-profit group initially raised $42,000 to purchase nearly 140 acres including the trails and the summit. The group initially formed to protect the mountain after learning of potential plans to build a restaurant there. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate ALBANY Everyone knows New York taxes are high, but a new study maintains they're also overly complex, inefficient and bad for business. Only New Jersey has a more business-hostile tax system, according to a study released Tuesday by the non-partisan but conservative-leaning Tax Foundation. Foundation analysts two years ago praised New Yorks Legislature and Gov. Andrew Cuomo's administration for starting a phase-out of a unique corporate tax based on a companys stock value. But they say the state remains hampered by the multiplicity of high business taxes. New York has decidedly improved but on most of these measures it remains uncompetitive compared to other states, said Jared Walczak, senior policy analyst at the Tax Foundation. State Budget Division spokesman Morris Peters argued that New York had improved its tax picture since Cuomo took office. "The (Tax Foundation's) obvious ideology aside, the facts are that this administration has been rigorous and effective in constraining state spending growth to the lowest level in modern history resulting in lower taxes for all New Yorkers," Peters said in an email. "We now have the lowest corporate tax rate since 1968, the lowest manufacturers tax rate since 1917 and, with the new income tax cuts phasing in this year, the lowest middle class tax rates since 1947." State-by-state comparisons matter, according to the Tax Foundation, because competition for jobs and industry is often more fierce between states than between nations. State lawmakers need to be more concerned with companies moving from Detroit, Mich., to Dayton, Ohio, than from Detroit to New Delhi, the study notes. Among the examples they cite is General Electric Co.s decision in 2015 to move their headquarters from Connecticut to Massachusetts just as the Nutmeg State increased corporate tax rates. The Tax Foundation focused on five major taxes individual income, corporate, property and sales as well as unemployment insurance. Analysts then plugged in more than 100 variables about those taxes, weighted them and compared states to one another. The survey also included some interesting anecdotes: They cite a 2000 academic paper that found 19.9 million cases of beer moved from low- to high-tax states. (It doesnt specify which states were involved.) While New Jersey ranked 5oth in the rankings, Wyoming was in first place followed by South Dakota and Alaska. Florida, which is far more similar to New York than the top three in terms of taxes, came in fourth. rkarlin@timesunion.com 518-454 5758 @RickKarlinTU Tipperary County Council has stated that all national roads in the county are now cleared of debris following Hurricane Ophelia, with the exception of the N74 from Golden to Cashel. Works are continuing during the day on clearing minor roads as there is still a lot of debris and some roads are obstructed, so please continue to travel with caution, they said. "We would appreciate that you would bear with Tipperary County Council staff in our efforts in clearing roads and making travel safe for all road users," said the council. There are two roads still blocked in the Thurles area, awaiting on the ESB as there are wires down: The Mill road Thurles The Rock road Ballycahill The council is asking the public not to travel these roads until such time as the ESB make the roads safe. Other roads still affected include: One mile outside Ballingarry North, tree down one mile outside Ballingarry North Clonmel to Kilkenny road, about 100m past Ormond Stores from Clonmel The Willows, Thurles (danger of tree falling and will block the road when it happens) Templemore to Dunkerrin Road, about half a km from Templemore Travel through Portroe, Nenagh towards Ballina - two trees down on the hill, past the school R503 from Thurles to Newport - tree half blocking the road Rochestown Cross, on the Ardfinnan Road, heading towards Grange Poles down on Golden Road, Cashel. Please avoid Trees down on the Grange Road, Clonmel - between Rochestown and Loughryan. ESB wires wrapped around them. Please avoid the area Fallen tree blocking the road in Ballynevin East of Anner Castle Ballinamore Clonmel Tree down on road outside H &L Environmental Services on the Johnstown road from Templetuohy Village, Thurles Tree down in Lisheen Moyne, Thurles. Travelling from Urlingford to Mary Willies turn right Dangerous tree fallen on Montevideo Road on Templemore Road out of Roscrea Large branch hanging precariously over the road between the post office and Grattan Street, Tipperary Town Trees down at Yellow Bridge, Nenagh: Glosh Lane, Boher, Ballina, link road to the Round Hill Bar Tree down on Ballygraigue Road, Nenagh (road from Ballygraigue to Bawn). Road at present is impassable. Road at Ormonde Stile, Nenagh (road from Griffins Cross to Templederry). At Four Cross Roads, take the Cooneen Road. There are forestry trees down across the road. Road is passable for cars only. A proposed motorway connection from Limerick to Cork taking in Co. Tipperary, has been shelved in favour of a more direct route, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has announced. In May this year, Tipperary Co. Council gave its backing to a proposal to link Limerick city with Cork and Waterford by motorway, via Tipperary, meaning potential by-passes for Tipperary Town, Cahir and Carrick-on-Suir. The plan would save the State in excess of 300million with separate motorways from Limerick to Cork and Waterford to Cork not having to be built. Drivers would have seen their journey times slashed between the two cities by nearly as much as a route directly linking Cork and Limerick. In light of Brexit, it also made sense to build a motorway linking the Mid-West to Rosslare Port, for Irish exports to the Continent, Cllr Eddie O'Meara told the Tipperary Star earlier this year. There's a saving of 400m by going from Limerick to Cahir, rather than from Limerick to Cork. And another 400m would go a long way towards Waterford, said Cllr O'Meara. However, addressing Cork Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced that funding had been secured for the project to link Cork and Limerick, bypassing Co. Tipperary entirely. M20 will link Cork to Limerick and on to Galway. All roads will no longer lead the Dublin. Major part of next capital plan, the Taoiseach announced on social media. The project is expected to cost 850m in total and, once planning is approved, it's expected that construction will take two to three years, with a likely completion date in 2022. Tributes have been paid to the Co. Tipperary man Michael Pyke, who died tragically yesterday (Monday, October 16) while out clearing fallen trees from his car between Cahir and Ardfinnan during Storm Ophelia. Gardai rushed to the scene of the fatal accident that occurred at Ballybrado, Cahir, Co. Tipperary at about 12.30pm. Mr Pyke, aged in his early 30s, while in the course of clearing a fallen tree, was seriously injured with a chainsaw. His body was removed to Clonmel Hospital, and Funeral arrangements are being prepared. Mr Pyke was a student of Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT). Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of LIT, has released the following statement on the untimely passing of Michael Pyke, who was a student of LIT, as an Electrical Apprentice. Michaels passing is a source is of profound regret and sadness for us in LIT. May Michael rest in peace. Micheal was an Electrical Apprentice in LIT. He started his Phase Six studies with us three weeks ago. He had previously completed his Phase Four programme in LIT in 2016. He was known by staff and students here. We in LIT are a community, and we hope that the sympathy our community feels will act as a support to Michaels family, friends and work colleagues. It is with heartfelt regret that we found that one of our students will not be returning to college. Our thoughts and wishes are with Michaels family, friends and work colleagues. LIT Staff and Student Support Services are currently offering support to Michaels classmates, and to any other staff and students affected by Michaels untimely passing. May he rest in peace. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis. As a mark of respect, flags at LIT campuses are flying at half mast in recognition of Michael. LIT is also opening a Book of Condolences for Michael today, and staff and members of the LIT community will be attending his funeral. The institute will be holding a service in his memory at a later date. The Institute is currently providing support for students and staff affected by Michaels untimely passing. Provision of this support is our current priority. HARRISBURG Five universities are in line to receive hundreds of millions of dollars in state funding thats been held up for months by the L [October 16, 2017] VicTrack Taps Dali Wireless to Deploy Australia's First Digital Public Safety DAS VicTrack and Dali Wireless today announced the successful deployment of the new digital public safety communications system for the Protective Services Officers (PSO) working at selected Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) railway stations. VicTrack, which owns the state's transport infrastructure and assets, selected infrastructure provider Dali Wireless to design and deploy a P25 Phase 1 & 2 public safety DAS for railway stations with known "black-spots". The new network provides coverage for nine PSO surveillance offices and the surrounding stations using its advanced digital DAS technology. Tasked with addressing issues with station platform and underpass blackspots, VicTrack was looking for a fiber transmission solution for two-way radio communications that would overcome limitations of the previous "wireless-only" system. Dali's advanced digital DAS not only delivered on all the coverage requirements with high-quality communications, it could also be easily expanded to accommodate future requirements making it a good long-term investment for VicTrack. "The safety of all passengers is a high priority and that's why we're working to support the deployment of Protective Services Officers across metropolitan stations by upgrading their 2-way radio technology," said Bruce Moore, General Manager, Telecommunications Group of VicTrack. "VicTrack will continue to work with government partners and the private telecommunications sector to ensure commuter safety concerns are addressed." Working with local partner Maser Group, Dali provided a bespoke solution for Melbourne's Metropolitan Protective Service Officers that combined Dali's advanced digital DAS technology with an uninterrupted power system and remote network monitoring for high efficiency and availability. The overall project was a partnership between VicTrack (access, engineering design and project management), Dali and Maser Group (vendor for technical equipment and service integration), Motorola (News - Alert) (service provider for MMR network and engineering design) and MTM (project management and subcontractor management). "Dali is excited to be part of building Australia's first digital Public Safety DAS system for the Melboure METRO. This landmark project has provided the Victoria Police with the latest communications technology to help them in safeguarding the public," stated Albert Lee, CEO of Dali Wireless. "Maser is delighted to be able to provide such cutting edge technology, as well as support services to an organization like METRO Trains Melbourne. This will greatly enhance communications efforts around the network, something that Maser strives to do in all their business markets," said Gareth Jones, CEO of Maser. "This Australian first project has been a result of many months of hard work and negotiations to provide VicTrack the best solution on the market, which it has with the Dali Wireless solution." About Dali Wireless Dali Wireless is a wireless infrastructure innovator providing new and better ways to handle exponential growth in mobile data traffic. Dali's fully digital wireless signal routing solution revolutionizes in-building and outdoor coverage and capacity by eliminating interference and maximizing spectrum usage. The Company's ground breaking patented virtual Fronthaul Interface (vFI) is an intelligent aggregator-router and key enabler of RAN virtualization elevating networks to 5G readiness. Mobile operators, large enterprises and public safety networks around the world deploy Dali technology to ensure high-quality service and a seamless migration to 5G. See www.daliwireless.com or follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) @daliwireless. About VicTrack Along with our transport sector partners and on behalf of the Victorian Government, VicTrack are putting our transport assets to work to deliver more for Victoria. As a government agency, everything VicTrack does is designed to strengthen transport and deliver better commuter and public outcomes. With much of its asset portfolio dedicated to transport - land, infrastructure, trams and trains, and telecommunication networks - its focus is strategic asset management and supporting the delivery of better transport solutions. As a provider of core services to the transport sector and asset manager, it fulfils various roles and functions to ensure the state's assets continue to serve Victoria now and into the future. Its business comprises three specialist delivery groups including Property, Telecommunications and Project Delivery, which are supported by Office of the Chief Executive and Business Services. With a strong commercial focus it drives investment back to transport and communities, and supports other non-commercial activities like community projects and environmental and heritage preservation. About Maser Group Established in 1983 in New Zealand, the Maser Group has grown into a multinational company with offices in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom providing coverage across the South Pacific and Europe. The Maser Group is a specialised provider of advanced technology solutions in a wide range of markets including telecommunications, industrial, enterprise, broadcast and defence, sourced from leading international supply partners. With a growing and experienced team, Maser offers specialist skills and services to help our clients achieve the highest return on their investment (ROI) including professional services, technical support, training and logistics. The Maser Group's aim is to provide customers with the very best possible solutions, the finest products and the highest level of service. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171016006018/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Authorities say a Baraboo couple arrested last week used karaoke machines to smuggle large amounts of drugs through the mail. Prosecutors allege in court documents that Baraboo police were alerted to the situation by the U.S. Postal Inspector Service after a drug dog keyed in on a suspicious package. The shipment was headed for the 8th Street home of 24-year-old Froylan Raya Castro and 23-year-old Kenia L. Martinez, according to a criminal complaint filed in Sauk County Circuit Court. The inspector allegedly found more than 2 pounds of methamphetamine and about 85 grams of cocaine inside. That prompted the Sauk County Drug Task Force to set up a sting operation in which officers observed the delivery from afar, and then raided the home with a warrant after Martinez accepted the package. Inside, investigators reported finding numerous drugs and drug paraphernalia. They also allegedly found multiple karaoke machines and the packages in which they had been shipped. A detective disassembled one of the machines and noted damage to a speaker box, where the postal inspector found drugs in the most recent shipment. Investigators also found $8,000 in cash and a pistol belonging to Castro, a convicted felon, the complaint states. The alleged smuggling operation is similar to one busted by federal, state and local investigators in New York last year. In October 2016, authorities announced they had uncovered a drug ring that used karaoke machines and other electronics to ship large amounts of cocaine to the Hudson Valley area. In one package, they found nearly 6 pounds of cocaine in a karaoke machine, according to an article in Hudson Valley One. In Sauk County Circuit Court on Monday, Assistant District Attorney Sue Mueller said Castro and Martinez were part of a drug delivery ring that included long distances and drugs received by mail. She said the amount of drugs recovered from the home was astonishing. Authorities have estimated the street value of the drugs seized at the Baraboo home was about $29,000. Castro and Martinez are engaged, and have a 2-year-old child together. Both have ties to California, but have lived in the Baraboo area since at least 2015, attorneys said in court Monday. Prosecutors say Castro has a criminal history that includes carrying a concealed weapon as a gang member and threatening school employees. Sauk County prosecutors have charged him with possession of meth, coke, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He also has been charged with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, obstructing an officer and bail jumping. Castro has been jailed on a $25,000 cash bond and is due to return to court Oct. 26. Martinez faces charges of meth and coke possession. Her release was authorized on the signing of a $500 signature bond, with certain conditions. She is due back in court Nov. 16. [October 16, 2017] Atos' Enterprise SSO as-a-Service brings password-free logins to both Cloud and on-premises applications PARIS, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Atos, a global leader in digital transformation, launches Evidian Enterprise Single Sign-On as-a-Service (E-SSO aaS), through Bull, its brand for HPC and cybersecurity products. This is the only solution on the market that enables users to access their applications, without the need to enter passwords, on both Cloud-based and on-premises applications. Evidian Enterprise Single Sign-On as-a-Service (E-SSO aaS) provides end-users with Single Sign-On access to both web and non-web applications, thus simplifying their daily lives by eliminating the need to constantly remember and re-enter passwords. Additionally it reduces resource on Security Management teams to manage password retrieval and renewal. Security Managers have the assurance of reinforced security of application access and are able to lower helpdesk cost (employee lost password and locked account helpdesk calls reduced by up to 30%) and improve user efficiency. With the increasing number Cloud-based applications being used, secure access management which automates user access for both web and non-web applications, is essential. This unique hybrid offer complies with GDPR (Global Data Protection Regulation), CNIL and other regulations. It is based on Evidian Enterprise Single Sign-On, a leading product in the Single Sign-On (SSO)/IAM market. Evidian IAM solutions have been ranked by European analyst KuppingerCole as Overall Leader, Product Leader and Innovation Leader[1]. The new solution is available now on Windows workstations and iOS and Android mobile devices. Louis-Marie Fouchard, Product line manager for Identity and Access Management products at Atos, explains: "With this new offer, Security Management teams are able to delegate SSO management while optimizing costs. It is quick and simple to deploy, with no upfront investment needed and compliant with the latest data protection and security regulations." Atos: European Leader in Managed Security Services Atos is a European leader in data protection with proven experience in identity federation and self-service password reset and has more than 20 years of experience in Identity and Access Management with a global team of over 500 security IAM specialists, serving more than 1,000 customers worldwide. Atos has been positioned by NelsonHall as a leader in its Managed Security Services (MSS) NEAT vendor evaluation study and ranked first in Europe in terms of market share. Atos at Les Assises de la Securite Atos will be present at the 17th edition of Les Assises de la Securite - stand #11 - which takes place in Monaco from 11 to 14 October. [1] "Leadership Compass IAM/IAG-Suites"- November 2014 About Atos Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with approximately 100,000 employees in 72 countries and annual revenue of around EUR 12 billion. European number one in Big Data, Cybersecurity, High Performance Computing and Digital Workplace, the Group provides Cloud services, Infrastructure & Data Management, Business & Platform solutions, as well as transactional services through Worldline, the European leader in the payment industry. With its cutting-edge technologies, digital expertise and industry knowledge, Atos supports the digital transformation of its clients across various business sectors: Defense, Financial Services, Health, Manufacturing, Media, Energy & Utilities, Public sector, Retail, Telecommunications and Transportation. The Group is the Worldwide Information Technology Partner for the Olympic & Paralympic Games and operates under the brands Atos, Atos Consulting, Atos Worldgrid, Bull, Canopy, Unify and Worldline. Atos SE (Societas Europaea) is listed on the CAC40 Paris stock index. Press contact: Sylvie Raybaud - [email protected] - +33 6 95 91 96 71 - Linkedin @Sylvie_Raybaud Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20170629/1887988-1LOGO-b SOURCE Atos Information Technology [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 16, 2017] UST Global Collaborates With MIT Trust::Data Consortium ALISO VIEJO, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ~ To jointly research and innovate for the data-driven society of the future UST Global, a leading digital technology services company, today announced its collaboration with MIT Trust::Data Consortium. The alliance will focus on research and innovation of solutions for the data-driven society of the future. (Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/540539/UST_Global_Logo.jpg ) The MIT Trust::Data Consortium addresses the growing tension between societal data proliferation and data security by developing specifications, software, tools and documentation that help organizations adopt a holistic approach towards cyber security. Trust::Data is building new models for digital identity, data provenance, universal access, and secure privacy-preserving transactions to harness the future potential of global data sharing. UST Global is focused on innovating digital solutions for the betterment of its customers and society. UST Global's alliance with MIT Trust::Data Consortium will allow the company to conduct research, and develop innovative solutions in areas of mutual interest. Raju Chithambaram, Chief Transformation Officer at UST Global is a Visiting Scholar at the MIT Connection Science Lab and will be collaborating on projects like OPAL (Open Algorithms), CoreID to bring game-changing innovations to the fintech, healthcare, retail, media and other industries. Commenting on the alliance, Raju said, "We are excited to collaborate with MIT Trust::Data Consortium, one of the most prestigious research institutes in the world, to conduct research and develop innovative solutions. Fintech or Healthcare industries would like to reap the benefit of shared data wihout ever compromising the privacy - PII (Personally Identifiable Information) or PHI (Protected Health Identifier) - of a single individual. Privacy preserving transactions will break this deadlock and accelerate innovation." Sunil Kanchi, Chief Information Officer & Senior Vice President, UST Global, said, "This alliance comes at the right time when UST Global is at the forefront of developing new technologies, products and platform solutions. We are happy to extend our innovation capabilities beyond our Infinity Labs Innovation Centers to MIT Trust::Data Consortium." Prof Alex 'Sandy' Pentland, Founding Faculty Director, MIT Connection Science Research Initiative, added, "We welcome UST Global for a joint research and innovation to solve difficult problems that global corporations and society face today. We are confident that UST Global's innovation capabilities and strong talent will add great value to our on-going and upcoming projects." About MIT Trust::Data Consortium The mission of The Trust::Data Consortium is to create open source tools and services that foster the development of a secure Internet-based network of trusted data. With the emergence of massive global data ecosystems, The Trust::Data Consortium aims to provide people, organizations, and computers, the ability to manage access to their data more securely, efficiently and equitably, while protecting personal data from incursion and corruption. As we have moved from the analog world to the digital world, our data, security and governance systems have not kept pace. It has created numerous issues ranging from data insecurity (such as the large-scale government and private sector data losses of recent years) to a widening digital divide between rich and poor, including the global disenfranchisement of over 1.5 billion people who lack legal identity. Evolving from the 25-year history of MIT Kerberos in MIT's famous Project Athena, Trust::Data continues the MIT tradition of solving difficult problems facing society today and in the future, and providing open source solutions, free to the world. For more information, please visit: http://www.trust.mit.edu. About UST Global UST Global is a leading digital technology company that provides advanced computing and digital services to large private and public enterprises around the world. Driven by a larger purpose of Transforming Lives and the philosophy of "fewer clients, more attention", we bring in the entrepreneurial spirit that seeks the fastest path to value in today's digital economy. Our innovative technology services and pioneering social programs make us unique. UST Global is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California and operates in 21 countries. Our clients include Fortune 500 companies in Banking and Financial Services, Healthcare, Insurance, Retail, High Technology, Manufacturing, Shipping, and Telecom. UST Global believes in building long-lasting, strategic business relationships through agile and client-centric global engagement models that combines local experts & resources with cost, scale, and quality advantages of global operations. For more information, please visit: http://www.ust-global.com. UST Global Media Contact: Media Relations [email protected] +91-8552944004 SOURCE UST Global [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 16, 2017] Asia Clean Capital and Danone China Food & Beverage join hands to start solar projects ZHONGSHAN, China, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia Clean Capital (ACC) and Danone China Food & Beverage (Danone) on Oct. 13, 2017 held the grid-connection ceremony for Danone Zhongshan factory's solar project in Zhongshan City, Guangdong Province. Party committee member of Xiaolan town, Zhongshan city Li Jiahao, Director of power supply in Xiaolan town, Zhongshan city Li Guoqiang, Operations Vice President of Danone China Food & Beverage Erwin Van Grootel and Asia Clean Capital CEO Thomas Lapham attended the ceremony. The project is Danone's first solar PV (photovoltaic) project in China and it also marks an important step for ACC in Southern China. ACC invested 100 percent of the system costs and undertook the design, construction, and long-term system maintenance. Electricity from the solar systems will be provided to Danone at competitive rates. Over its lifetime, the system will save approximately 55,000 tons of CO2, which is equivalent to planting over 1.2 million trees1. "Asia Clean Capital is honored to cooperate with Danone on rooftop solar," said Thomas Lapham, CEO of ACC. "Danone is one of the world's greatest food companies with factories across China and the world. Danone Zhongshan can serve as a springboard to implement solar across these many facilities and make a major positive environmental impact." Danone is devoted to reducing its carbon footprint and implementing green energy. Operations Vice President of Danone, Erwin Van Grootel said "We are happy to witness the inauguration of Danone China's first solar PV project. In the past, we used green energy indirectly. Now, we generate and use green energy directly. This is an important step for us to reduce carbon emissions, and we have already identified the next factory where we will install solar panels." 1 Calculation is based on calculation method and basic data provided by United States Environmental Protection Agency About Danone China Food & Beverage In Nov 2008, Danone (China) Food & Beverage Co.,Ltd Management Headquarters was found in Guangzhou. The company's main productions include Mizone Vitamin Beverage,MI-PRO, Lemonade, etc. Mizone is growing rapidly and has become one of the leading brands in the beverage market in China. Danone (China) Food & Beverage Co.,Ltd insists on fulfilling the corporate social responsibility. The company keeps investing in projects of the water resources protection, ecosystem restoration, climate change, community shared value, sustainable agriculture & sustainable packaging, etc. About Asia Clean Capital Asia Clean Capital Ltd. ("ACC") is a leading clean energy solutions developer that serves large multinational and domestic firms throughout China. Focused on rooftop solar projects, ACC invests 100 percent of the project costs and provides the design, engineering, equipment, government approvals, installation, and long-term maintenance of solar systems. All electricity produced is then provided to clients at agreed rates lower than when purchased from the local power grid. Existing clients include Nestle, Coca-Cola, COFCO, Volkswagen, Unilever, Wahaha, Tsuneishi, and others. The company has offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Hong Kong. Contact Asia Clean Capital +86 10 5869 1319 [email protected] Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20171016/1966654-1 SOURCE Asia Clean Capital (ACC) [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 16, 2017] Foton Motor Signs a Cooperation Memorandum With Cummins at the U.S.-China Energy Efficiency Forum and Launches the Second Stage of the "China Super Truck" program BEIJING, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 13, 2017, The 8th U.S.-China Energy Efficiency Forum was held in Denver, Colorado, US. At the forum, Foton Motor and Cummins signed a Memorandum of Green Power and Smart Truck Cooperation Development Project, which indicates that Foton Motor and Cummins will launch an in-depth cooperation in tackling global climate change under the consensus of boosting energy-saving, low-carbon and green development, and also marks the launching of the second stage of the "China Super Truck" program. This new cooperation aims at performing in-depth cooperations in green energy sources, that is, based on the advantages of the both sides in technologies and resources, using new energy-saving technologies to complete the optimization of the powertrain system and vehicle integration, reducing fuel consumption and enhancing transport efficiency, creating globally-leading green smart trucks to comply with the trend of green environmental protection and practice the requirements of US-China clean energy cooperation. Since 2008 when Foton Motor and Cummins established the joint venture, engines produced by Foton Cummins have covered light-duty and heavy-duty engine series, with emission standards meeting the requirements in the globally strictest emision-related laws and regulations, Foton Cummins engines can meet Euro IV, Euro V and Euro VI emission standards. ISG super powertrain is Cummins' exclusive powertrain for Super Truck. Its outstanding intelligent technology and high-efficiency fuel-saving advantages contribute to it being a global mainstream primary powertrain for high-end heavy-duty truck. FOTON AUMAN EST and EST-A heavy duty truck which are equipped with ISG super powertrain, can reduce fuel consumption and carbon emission and enhance transport efficiency sharply. FOTON AUMAN EST series will be launched in Russia, Peru, Thailand, etc. this year, which has been researched and developed for 4 years with European standards, based on research and development advantages of Beijing Foton Daimler Automotive Co., Ltd.(BFDA), matched with Cummins ISG exclusive powertrain, and integrated globally top-level commercial vehicle core supply chains including Cummins, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Wabco, Continental, etc. Leading the trend of the Chinese truck with scientific and technological breakthroughs, FOTON AUMAN EST series has become China's real first-generation Super Truck. In addition, Foton Motor allied with globally top-level supply chain systems to establish "China Intelligent Connected Super Truck Alliance", aiming at generating the construction and development of smart traffic and smart cities on a global scale, through intelligent interconnection automobile products. The signature of Memorandum on Strategic Cooperation of green power and Smart Truck indicates that the second stage of "China Super Truck" program is launched formally. Its target is to reduce fuel consumption up to 15-20%, decrease carbon emission up to 20% and enhance transport efficiency up to 50%. Foton Motor, as the backbone force of China automobile industry, with the characteristic of "green, high efficiency, safety and intelligence", will cooperate with Cummins to provide green super powertrain and intelligent Super Truck for the global commercial vehicle market, as well as showing the strong power of "China Intelligent Manufacturing" in the world. Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/583818/Energy_Effeciency_Signing.jpg Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/583816/FOTON_Cummins_energy_efficiency_cooperations.jpg Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/583817/FOTON_Cummins_energy_efficiency_cooperations.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 16, 2017] Yangon goes live with Hikvision Traffic Management Solution HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Hikvision, the world's leading supplier of video surveillance products and solutions, is ensuring safe vehicle flow and helping to improve driving standards in Yangon, Myanmar (formally Burma), via an intelligent wide-area integrated traffic management solution installed across the entire city. The background As a result of economic sanctions on Myanmar being eased in 2011, a rapid build-up of tens of thousands of vehicles moved on to the city's roads and in the years since, Yangon, (population 7 million) has experienced major traffic congestion. The heavy traffic on Yangon's roads resulted in regular vehicle gridlock and in 2007, there were approximately 180,000 vehicles on the city's streets, by 2014 that number had almost doubled. As a result of the major traffic jams and poor driving standards, in 2013 the city experienced nearly 3,000 vehicle collisions and 506 related fatalities. The Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC) found that the intensified traffic flow led to increased traffic rule violations, such as jumping red lights and illegal U-turns -- resulting in increased congestion and greater risk of accidents. To address these issues, YCDC issued a tender inviting companies to provide an effective technology based solution. The winning bid by China Railway 21st Bureau Company Ltd, recommended a Hikvision based traffic management solution. Acting on the DICTCS (Design, Installation, Commissioning of Traffic Control System) project as a technical consultant, Hikvision worked with China Railway 21st Bureau Company Ltd and YCDC to detail a traffic control solution that would guarantee the system's performance capability, seamless operation and future-proof expansion. Field-proven technology To control the city-wide traffic system, Hikvision supplied their ITS (intelligent Video Management System), designed specifically for traffic management applications. The industry-leading platform integrates vhicle checkpoints, violation detections, video surveillance, illegal parking detection, intersection control, and data integration. Central to the traffic management system employed at 154 traffic light controlled junctions, is the Hikvision ITS Comprehensive Control Platform, consisting of data servers servicing Management, database, streaming, storage, Traffic Event and Traffic Devices. Ensuring better traffic flow, at points across the city, Traffic Signal Controller technology is used to enforce multiple traffic rules. When a vehicle in violation passes an ITS-equipped checkpoint, the system captures a photo and automatically links significant data, including LPR and speed value to the evidential image. Vehicle speed is captured by radar or by segmenting road sections, and smooth traffic flow is ensured by the Running Red Light Detection System. Working in conjunction with Traffic Light Signal detection, Hikvision camera technology provides evidential video of traffic light violations, with images used for violation notification. It also keeps an eye on the quality of the city's traffic flow 24/7. Violation detection Hikvision cameras are employed in the city to monitor parking via the Illegal Parking Detection System. Traffic speed dome cameras capture images of any vehicle illegally parked and the system is able to manage common driving violations, such as intersection abuse, wrong-way driving, direction deviations, prohibited lane changes, crossing lanes, traffic counting, and reverse driving detection. Relieving traffic congestion hot spots, the system supplies road users with current traffic status, reporting traffic flow on giant roadside Traffic Guidance Display monitors. Data drives better behaviour & traffic flow Invaluable system data allows the traffic management team to reduce bottlenecks, improve traffic flow and ensure the best road-user travel experience. Citywide road network camera surveillance is displayed in the control room on a Hikvision HD LCD video monitor wall. "Implementing Hikvision's Design, Installation and Commissioning of the comprehensive Traffic Control System in Yangon with Hikvision's integrated subsystem, enables us to have access to live traffic information and red-light violations," explained Than Win, Vice Chief Secretary of Yangon City Development Committee. "Hikvision's subsystem illustrates the success that can be achieved to control non-compliance with traffic laws.'' "Yangon is the first international city outside of China to use the Hikvision DICTCS Traffic Management Solution, joining hundreds of successful systems installed in cities across China," confirmed Tony Xu, Hikvision Project Manager. "Thanks to the innovative Hikvision solution, the technology in place is set to ensure that Yangon's vastly improved traffic flow will aid YCDC's development objective, to support and sustain the city's economic and industrial growth." About Hikvision Hikvision is the world's leading provider of innovative video surveillance products and solutions. Featuring the industry's strongest R&D workforce, the company advances the core technologies of audio and video encoding, video image processing, and related data storage, as well as forward-looking technologies such as cloud computing, big data, and deep learning. In addition to the video surveillance industry, Hikvision extended its business to smart home tech, industrial automation, and automotive electronics industries for sustaining long-term development. While creating value for its customers, Hikvision operates 28 overseas regional subsidiaries all over the world to achieve a truly global presence. For more information, please visit us at www.hikvision.com. SOURCE Hikvision Digital Technology [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Liberty Videocon Conferred With Multiple Awards for Digital Technology Transformation in Insurance Sector MUMBAI, October 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Awarded for Operational excellence, digital transformation and best insurer website in India Liberty Videocon General Insurance (LVGI), one of India's fastest growing general insurance companies, today announced that it has received four awards in the area of digital technology where the company has transformed its operations and Omni-channel capabilities. The various awards include: Celent Model Insurer Asia Award 2017 - Digital & Omni-channel Technologies IDC Digital Transformation Awards 2017 - Digital Operational Transformation Asia Insurance Technology Awards 2017 - Digital Transformation Award Globe Premium Awards 2017 - Best Website in Insurance India Category LVGI prides itself in being one of the first movers to understand and address its customers' and partners' requirements, especially for those who are constantly on the move. LVGI has for long been rolling out digital services for their customers, right from availability of online policies, services and renewals through LivMobile app, digital claims assessment through LiVClaim App, telematics services for car drivers and web engagements. Commenting on the number of awards, Mr Roopam Asthana, CEO & Whole Time Director, LVGI said, "Having digital technology at the core of our business always helps in thinking digital at the time of designing our products and processes. The awards validate the successful adoption of technology in transforming our business processes to the optimum. At LVGI we have been investing in digital technology at every level and ensure that our customers and partners can experience simplicity, speed and quality at every instance. We take pride in being honoured and recognized as a leader of our industry in India and at global level." Mr. Sriram Naganathan, President IT & Digital Initiatives adds, "Digital technology initiatives at LVGI are centered on meeting customers' expectations in the platform of her choice and being available anytime/anywhere. The IT team has been working since last few years on digital enablement and has developed a robust framework which now permits easy rollout of front end digitization." LVGI's Puneet Pasricha, President - Institutional Business & Corporate strategy received the IDC Digital Transformation Award for the company's digital initiatives. The other awards received include Celent Model Insurer Asia Award for the company's OEM integration platform for achieving excellence in operational transformation, Celent Asia Insurance Technology Award, under digital transformation category for Business Rules Management System implementation. LVGI also received the Globe Premium Award for Best Website in the Insurance domain in India. The award was given by the jury comprising of the editorial team of the World of Business magazine followed by a review by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP. About Liberty Videocon General Insurance A joint venture between Liberty Citystate holdings PTE Ltd, a group company of US Headquartered Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, a leading multinational property and casualty group, and Videocon Industries Limited, Liberty Videocon General Insurance commenced operations in 2013 with the aim of providing comprehensive retail, commercial and industrial insurance solutions. Visit: https://www.libertyvideocon.com/ Media Contact: Binu Thomas [email protected] +91-9669840237 Concept Public Relations [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Aussie Start-Up Launches Platform to Promote Business Innovation Games are the most elevated form of investigation. - Alfred Einstein PERTH, Australia, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Nectir, an online ideas collaboration platform, is leading the next wave of business innovation management systems. In a fast-moving sector, early testing of Nectir's platform has demonstrated clear competitive advantage thanks to its powerful strategy alignment and social gamification elements. The Australian-owned company -- with presence in Sydney, Perth & Canberra, as well as Johannesburg in South Africa -- has attracted $2 million in seed funding on the strength of the software's concept. Nectir has recently launched globally, and as of 4 October has more than twenty-five corporates, representing approximately 68,000 users, already signed-up and in trial. The power of the collective Executive Director Brad Dessington explains the advantages Nectir's sftware presents: "We have created a platform that offers business an almost infinite source of ideas and solutions to their business growth, from their own staff -- within an interface that first and foremost understands how to get employees to participate in innovation." With Nectir, employees are equipped to provide solutions to issues in their immediate workflow, or to be part of groups that solve a challenge issued by the executive. Managers can select ideas and solutions to promote to sprints -- fast paced selected teams, who are tasked with providing a viable business solution -- for executive approval and implementation. Gamification meets innovation "As humans in fast-paced business, motivation and social performance underpins our desire to innovate. Nectir was built with these concepts in its DNA. From the outset, the platform aimed to provide a way for people to co- create and be rewarded for both their performance and collaboration." With large business and government institutions looking for increasingly nimble and inter-connected employees, the ground-up implementation of agile teamwork and continuous improvement creates an environment where these attributes are not only encouraged, but are actively fostered and rewarded. By assigning successes and behaviours with 'points', social recognition and custom incentives set by the business, staff are motivated to excel and achieve recognition among colleagues and management. The key to engagement is Nectir's use of intuitive interfaces that are familiar to anyone with a social media account. "That's where Nectir really shines," says Brad. "Everyone loves to engage and explore creative options trough a platform that is simple and familiar." For more information, contact Brad Dessington on +61-423-956-234 or [email protected] SOURCE Nectir [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] E-Store Home World Premiere - ET Solar Launches the Residential Energy Storage MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- From October 11 to October 12, during ALL ENERGY 2017 Exhibition in Australia, ET Solar, as a global well-known photovoltaic module manufacturer, showed three Australian boutique modules sold successfully including a ET-M672360WW, and launched the first residential photovoltaic energy storage product E-Store Home, creating the "PV+ energy storage" integrated system, and allowed the photovoltaic clean energy to be used in ordinary family homes. The "PV+ energy storage" is the future development direction, and the Government of Australia not only recognizes the economy, but also accelerates boosting it firstly in the public utility enterprises of the rural area and remote area of Australia. E-Store Home residential energy storage issued by ET Solar for the first time worldwide during ALL ENERGY 2017 Exhibition aroused the widely concern and great interest of local industrial experts, clients, dealers, installers and media of Australia, ad attracted dozens of partners to discuss cooperation on site. E-Store Home is characterized by safety, economy, intelligence, beauty and convenience for installation. E-Store Home selects LFP battery, DoD performance reaches 90%, the service life is up to 10 years, and the safety of the battery is better than that of Powerwall of Tesla. The dust prevention and water proof design of Ingress Protection 65 can exempt from the safety concern for users. E-store Home can realize 85% self-consumption, reduce the electric quantity purchased by user from power grid, and sharply save the electricity fee cost. Through measurement of laboratory, with energy storage users can save almost 1,000AUD electricity fee each year. E-store Home is also equipped with intelligent cloud monitoring, and the user can easily use the mobile APP to timely track the operation of the whole system at 24h every day, and remotely adjust and optimize all system parameters. The UPS function of E-store Home can supply power intermittently at 24h to the regions where frequent power failure is caused by unstable electricity or harsh environment, in addition of powerful function, the switching time of off-grid and connected grid is less than 20ms, ensuring intermittent and available electricity at any time for the powerful functions, E-Store Home uses the unique modularized and split design, conforms to the modern living aesthetics, and can be combined flexibly to sharply reduce the installation cost. E-Store Home has awarded the certification of international authority TUV/CE/IEC, and provides 10-year battery quality assurance for users. "Since entering the Australian market, ET Solar has always actively been coped with all challenges brought by change of Australian market and continued to boost innovative products, ET Solar modules have spread over South Australia, Gold Coast, Western Australia and other places, and obtained good reputation", Chairman of ET Solar Hao JingXiang expressed, "The boosting of the energy storage product perfects the product system of ET Solar in Australian market, so that our photovoltaic solution owns more competitive advantage. In the future, we will also continue to boost more new products and new technologies to market, rapidly boost the Australian photovoltaic market together with our Australian partners, and bring more clean electricity for industry and household roof of Australia." SOURCE ET Solar New Energy Co. Ltd [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] New topics, innovation prizes as SPIE Photonics Europe returns to Strasbourg CARDIFF, England, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Presentation proposals in digital optics, quantum technologies, optical imaging and sensing, laser-based manufacturing, attosecond science, and other photonics technologies are being accepted through 23 October for SPIE Photonics Europe 2018. Sponsored by SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics, the biennial congress will be held 2226 April in the Strasbourg Convention and Exhibition Centre. Several new conferences have been added to the technical programme, and a new AR/VR Design Challenge offering cash prizes for students is being organized. Returning conferences will cover biophotonics, nanosciences, silicon photonics, and other topics. Complete information is at www.spie.org/PE. Other highlights include the Photonics Innovation Village, high-level plenary speakers, a two-day exhibition connecting research andindustry, and a three-segment industry programme focusing on laser processing, imaging, and funding opportunities. SPIE Photonics Europe will again provide a forum for updates on the EU's Horizon 2020 programme. New conferences will cover: Condensed-Phase Physics Digital Optics for Immersive Displays (DOIDs) Fibre Lasers and Glass Photonics Organic Electronics and Photonics 3D Printed Optics and Additive Photonic Manufacturing Unconventional Optical Imaging In the AR/VR Optical Design Challenge, organized within the DOIDs conference, students will gain recognition and exposure before top industry leaders, by sharing their design creativity and making a 35 minute pitch. Winners in four categories will receive a share of 50,000 in cash and other prizes and support. Applications are due 1 December. Details are at: www.spie.org/EPE/conferencedetails/digital-optics-for-immersive-displays-doid18. A returning competition, the Photonics Innovation Village will provide researchers with an opportunity to share their latest findings. The winner will receive 1500, and the first and second runners-up will each receive 500. Applications are due 23 October. Information is at www.spie.org/conferences-and-exhibitions/photonics-europe/photonics-innovation-village. Plenary speakers are: Alain Aspect , Institut d'Optique Graduate School , Institut d'Optique Graduate School Jeremy Baumberg , University of Cambridge , Rainer Blatt , Leopold-Franzens-Universitat , Leopold-Franzens-Universitat Anne L'Huillier , Lund University , University Frank Koppens , ICFO Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques , ICFO Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques Jens Limpert , Friedrich-Schiller-Universitat Jena 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 programmes. www.spie.org Amy Nelson Public Relations Manager [email protected] +1 360 685 5478 Logo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/584269/SPIE_logo.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Introducing Handmade at Amazon.ca: Genuinely Handcrafted Items from Artisans in Canada and Around the World Handmade at Amazon.ca is the premier destination to shop for handcrafted items from over 30 countries New and unique items added daily at Amazon.ca/handmade All listing fees waived until December 31, 2018 SEATTLE, Oct. 17, 2017 /CNW/ - Amazon.ca announced today the launch of Handmade at Amazon.ca (www.amazon.ca/handmade), a new storefront featuring genuinely handmade items crafted and sold directly from Artisans. With Handmade at Amazon.ca, Customers can discover hundreds of Artisans and more than 10,000 products from around the world, and shop local from Artisans based in their community with FREE Two-Day Shipping available on a diverse selection of products. For Artisans looking to sign-up, Amazon.ca is waiving all listing fees until December 31, 2018. Please register here: https://sellercentral.amazon.ca/handmade/apply All products available on Handmade at Amazon.ca must be made by hand as Handmade at Amazon was designed to provide Customers and small businesses a tailored store specifically for handcrafted items. Handmade at Amazon.ca features a variety of product categories including Home Decor, Jewellery, Stationery and Party Supplies, Furniture, Kitchen and Dining, and many more. "We're thrilled to bring Handmade at Amazon to Amazon.ca, especially since there are hundreds of talented and creative Canadian Artisans from coast to coast" said Mike Strauch, country manager for Amazon.ca. "Our Artisans take pride in creating high quality products that customers can personalize or purchase as one-of-a-kind pieces." Reasons to explore Handmade at Amazon.ca: Genuinely Handmade: We only approve Artisans whose products are handcrafted. We are factory-free. Customers will enjoy on-trend jewellery, handmade leather backpacks and wallets, custom Turkish pillows, home decor, and much more. We only approve Artisans whose products are handcrafted. We are factory-free. Customers will enjoy on-trend jewellery, handmade leather backpacks and wallets, custom Turkish pillows, home decor, and much more. Explore the World: Shop by country to find products from Artisans in more than 30 countries. International items include custom ceramics from Italy and white opal necklaces from Israel . Shop by country to find products from Artisans in more than 30 countries. International items include custom ceramics from and white opal necklaces from . Discover the Artisan: Every Artisan has a profile that describes how their products are made. Shop locally by finding Artisans from all across Canada . Customers can experience handcrafted gemstone jewellery from a Belleville, Ontario -based Artisan, to unique hand forged wooden toys, games and educational materials for children from a Leduc County, Alberta husband and wife. Every Artisan has a profile that describes how their products are made. Shop locally by finding Artisans from all across . Customers can experience handcrafted gemstone jewellery from a -based Artisan, to unique hand forged wooden toys, games and educational materials for children from a Leduc County, husband and wife. Shopping Made Easy: What you love about Amazon, now for Handmade. We're bringing the friendly experience, convenience and value you love and trust about Amazon to the world of handmade items. Many items are also Prime eligible with more being added each day. To find the Handmade at Amazon.ca store from the Amazon.ca homepage, Customers can click on the "Handmade" link in the "Shop by Department" navigation or type in terms such as "handmade", "handmade home decor" or "handmade jewellery" into the search bar. Handmade at Amazon.ca features a growing collective of small businesses. Here's what some Artisans in Canada are saying: "I started my own business after hearing a young boy express his frustration about the lack of items available for boys at markets and craft fairs," said Alberta resident and MDH Toys founder, Miriam Handfield. "I take great pride in the effort my husband and I put into creating unique toys, games and educational materials and we are excited to begin selling on Handmade at Amazon.ca." "When I craft my products, I find myself most inspired and energized when I am wandering through our multicultural neighborhoods here in Toronto," described Sandra Negrete who owns and operates Nocturnal Blue out of her Toronto home. "Canada is such a diverse place to call home and I am thrilled to know my fellow Canadians can now experience and enjoy Handmade at Amazon.ca." "Selling my jewellery on Handmade at Amazon has allowed me to achieve my dreams while doing a job I love," explained Tara Reid, founder of Ontario-based Starletta Designs. "With the launch of Handmade at Amazon.ca, I am excited that my neighbors and friends across Canada can now buy the products I design and craft in my studio in Ontario." To explore products on Handmade at Amazon.ca, click here: www.amazon.ca/handmade About Amazon Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit www.amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews. SOURCE Amazon.ca [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] East and West Malaysia Gain Enhanced Mobile Broadband with SES Networks and CompuDyne CompuDyne, a leading telecommunications solutions provider in Malaysia, is partnering with SES (News - Alert) Networks to bring high quality and cost-effective cellular backhaul service to both East and West Malaysia and its surrounding islands. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171016006356/en/ East and West Malaysia Gain Enhanced Mobile Broadband with SES Networks and CompuDyne (Photo: Business Wire) SES announced that CompuDyne has signed a multi-year, multi-transponder agreement to lease Ku-band capacity on SES-9, SES's largest satellite dedicated to serve Asia-Pacific, for its customer Digi, the country's leading mobile network operator. Making a shift from a C-band to Ku-band system, CompuDyne can now deliver more cost-effective and reliable satellite connectivity, enabling Digi to extend its cellular network to underserved consumers residing in rural areas and in the far reaches of Malaysia. At the same time, Digi also plans to use the capacity to introduce mobile broadband services and packages for an increasingly connected population. "Providing affordable and reliable mobile services is a must to stand out amid a competitive operating environment. In the eastern and western pars of Malaysia, there is incredible growth in mobile broadband usage today from both business and consumers. Utilising Ku-band capacity on SES-9, our customers have the opportunity to tap into this rising demand and offer improved services and greater value for end-users," said Dato' Mohd Hanafiah A Jalil, Managing Director at CompuDyne. "With SES-9's high-powered and comprehensive Ku-band coverage over Malaysia, the satellite is ideal for providing cellular backhaul services. We are proud to partner with CompuDyne to not only expand its reach to deliver unmatched coverage within the country, but also to transform its mobile services with greater reliability and affordability for their customers' and consumers' connectivity needs," said Imran Malik, Vice President, Fixed Data, Asia-Pacific at SES Networks. Follow us on: Social Media Blog Media Gallery White Papers About SES SES is the world-leading satellite operator and the first to deliver a differentiated and scalable GEO-MEO offering worldwide, with more than 50 satellites in Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and 12 in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO). SES focuses on value-added, end-to-end solutions in two key business units: SES Video and SES Networks. The company provides satellite communications services to broadcasters, content and internet service providers, mobile and fixed network operators, governments and institutions. SES's portfolio includes ASTRA, O3b and MX1, a leading media service provider that offers a full suite of innovative digital video and media services. SES is listed on the Euronext Paris and Luxembourg Stock Exchange (ticker: SESG). Further information available at: www.ses.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171016006356/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] BNP Paribas Implements SmartStream's TLM Fees and Expense Management Solution SmartStream, the Financial Transaction Lifecycle Management (TLM) specialist, today announced that the Derivatives Execution & Clearing (DEC) business of BNP Paribas CIB has implemented its TLM Fees & Expense Management (FEMS) solution for two key objectives: To control and reconcile payable brokerage fees Invoice issuance to execute commissions for DEC clients FEMS will consolidate all fees which will be reconciled against invoices received. The solution will automate the invoice control process by managing the increase in volume growth and targeting essentially (1) the detection and resolution of disputes and (2) an acceleration of processing and payment turnaround time. Also, the solution will fully support the execution and commission billing process from DEC to its clients. Pierre Duret, Head of Clearing within BNP Paribas CIB Derivatives Execution & Clearing business states: "Operational efficiency is a permanent and primary stake in all our activities. The implementation of SmartStream's solution for fees and expense management is not only giving us strong capacity to industrialise a sensitive process, but also significant enhancement to quality controls for the benefit of our clients." Edouard Chantrier, responsible for TLM Fees & Expense Management at SmartStream comments: "Our goal is to equip BNP Paribas CIB Derivatives Execution & Clearing business with the most efficient and complete solution in order to meet the ambitious goals of the bank. Our teams worked in a collaborative and constructive manner for the whole project - in order to reach a high level of functional sophistication, making the solution very powerful." TLM Fees and Expense Management enables firms to strategically manage their variale expenses. It does so by using an end-to-end automated process, capable of substantiating variable expenses accurately across high volumes of transactional information and apportioning fees exactly. About BNP Paribas BNP Paribas' integrated business model is based on cooperation among the Group's businesses and diversification of risks. This model provides the Group with the necessary stability to adapt to change and to offer clients innovative solutions. The Group serves nearly 32 million individual customers and 850 000 professionals, entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporate clients in its retail-banking networks. In addition, BNP Paribas Personal Finance has more than 27 million active customers. With global reach, coordinated business lines and proven expertise, the Group provides a full range of innovative solutions adapted to client needs. These include payments, cash management, traditional and specialised financing, savings, protection insurance, wealth and asset management as well as real-estate services. In the area of corporate and institutional banking, the Group offers clients bespoke solutions to the capital markets, securities services, financing, treasury and financial advisory. With a presence in 74 countries, BNP Paribas helps clients to grow international. About SmartStream Technologies SmartStream Technologies is a recognised leader in financial transaction management software that enables firms to overcome critical transaction processing issues through increased automation. SmartStream's industry-leading automated match rates create more proactive, exceptions-based processes that lower the cost per transaction while enabling firms to reduce operational risk, strengthen compliance and controls, and improve customer service. As a result, more than 1,500 clients, including 75 of the world's top 100 banks, 8 of the top 10 asset managers, and 8 of the top 10 custodians rely on SmartStream. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017005127/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Actifio Named Finalist in 2017 DevOps Industry Awards U.K. Technology Award bolsters Actifio's technical leadership in the global data management industry BOSTON, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Actifio, the Enterprise Data-as-a-Service company, today announced it has been named a finalist for the Best Use of DevOps Technology category in the 2017 DevOps Industry Awards. The DevOps Industry Awards celebrate companies and individuals who have accomplished significant achievements when incorporating and adopting DevOps practices. The DevOps Industry Awards have been launched to recognize the tremendous efforts of individuals and teams when undergoing digital transformation projects whether they are small and bespoke, or large complex initiatives. "More than 2,700 customers in 37 countries are now leveraging Actifio's Data-as-a-service solution to build higher quality applications faster, improve business resiliency, and accelerate adoption of hybrid cloud architectures, at the velocity of DevOps," said Ash Ashutosh, CEO of Actifio. "This award recognition further showcases the value our solution delivers to customers around the world, helping them to successfully manage their data and pursue digital transformation." Demonstration of appropriate and successful use of technology in a project Verification of project goals, importance, achievements and successful results Evidence of overcoming project challenges/obstacles Detailed discussion around project methodology and justification of technology choices Evidence of commitment to industry best practices and standards The judges are appointed based on their extensive experience in their fields. These seasoned professionals, all of who currently hold senior management roles, guarantee that each entry is judged fairly and accurately. The DevOps Industry Awards comes from the The European Software Testing Awards. The Awards ceremony will take place at the Marriott Grosvenor Square in Central London on October 18, 2017. About Actifio Actifio is the world's leading Enterprise Data-as-a-Service (EDaaS) platform. It enables thousands of users around the world to deliver their data just as they deliver their applications and infrastructure... as a service available instantly, anywhere. An enterprise-class software platform powered by patented Virtual Data Pipeline technology, Actifio frees data from traditional infrastructure to accelerate adoption of hybrid cloud, build higher quality applications faster, and improve business resiliency and availability. For more, visit Actifio.com or follow us on Twitter @Actifio. Media Contacts: Meredith Kelly Bite for Actifio [email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/584483/Actifio_Logo.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Kogentix Announces Production and Cloudera Certification of Automated Machine Learning Platform (AMP) Version 1.3 SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Kogentix, the leader in practical artificial intelligence (AI) fueled by big data, announced the production release of version 1.3 of the Kogentix Automated Machine Learning Platform (AMP). Kogentix also announced that AMP v1.3 has achieved Cloudera Certification. AMP v1.3 includes several enhancements that fit the product's mission to enable not just better machine learning, but better business results. These include expansion of the packaged algorithms to include time series, tracking of feature relevance in models over time, and the introduction of a rules engine to trigger actions based on predictive insights. In a growing landscape of products designed to accelerate AI, AMP stands out as the most complete solution for the development of machine learning based business applications. PT Bank Danamon is one of Indonesia's largest financial institutions, and one of the most innovative customers using Kogentix AMP. Bank Danamon has built a next generation AI based "Customer Insights" platform based on Cloudera Enterprise and Kogentix AMP to build a better integrated, psychographic and true behavioral view of customers across the full spectrum of interactions between the customer and the bank. Danamon's leadership in the use of technology for customer insights made them a finalist for the Cloudera Data Impact Awards announced recently at the Strata Data event in New York. "Bank Danamon continues its efforts to strengthen customer service quality by adapting to the latest trends andtechnologies. With Kogentix AMP, Bank Danamon will be able to deliver enhanced, personalized customer experience at the pace the market requires, consistent with our heritage of innovation," said Billie Setiawan, Decision Management Head at Bank Danamon. "Cloudera Enterprise, whether delivered on premises or in the cloud, has emerged as the preeminent platform for customers looking to create business value out of their data with machine learning," said Mike Olson, founder, chairman of the board and chief strategy officer at Cloudera. "Kogentix AMP makes it possible for customers to innovate, automate, and operate enterprise machine learning applications on Cloudera Enterprise. We were impressed with AMP version 1.3 as it sailed through certification, and we're proud that Cloudera is the only platform on which Kogentix has elected to certify to date." "To address the real-world challenges customers face deploying AI solutions, there is no substitute for hands on experience working on a broad range of machine learning use cases," said Boyd Davis, chief executive officer of Kogentix. "Kogentix has that experience, and the AMP v1.3 enhancements were driven out of the requirements we've observed. For customers looking to create business impact while controlling their own data and insights, we're confident AMP is an ideal solution." Kogentix AMP version 1.3 is available now. Customers interested in seeing a demonstration, or discussing a proof of concept or pilot deployment should contact the company. Additional details may be found at www.kogentix.com. About Kogentix: Kogentix, headquartered near Chicago with offices in Singapore, Indonesia, India, and locations across the United States, is a leading AI software and services firm offering practical artificial intelligence solutions fueled by big data. Leveraging the Kogentix Automated Machine Learning Platform (AMP) and an expert services team, Kogentix delivers rapid business results while at the same time helping customers build a lasting capability to innovate and differentiate. Contact: Betsy Little [email protected] (224) 558-6993 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kogentix-announces-production-and-cloudera-certification-of-automated-machine-learning-platform-amp-version-13-300537614.html SOURCE Kogentix [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Gains Critical Approval from Vietnamese Governmental Ministry ANN ARBOR, Mich., Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. (OTCQB:KBLB) (Company), the leading developer of spider silk based fibers, today announced that Company management has recently returned from a series of highly productive meetings with high level provincial and central government officials in Vietnam. During these meetings the Company received the support and verbal approval to import the Companys hybrid silkworms and begin selective breeding. This is the critical step in advancing the Companys plans for commercial production in South East Asia. During this trip, the Companys management also met with its local architecture firm to review the master build plan for its proposed production site on 50 hectares. Management also toured an existing facility which has been selected as the probable headquarters for its hybridization operations and early stage production. The Company is now working with officials from the Province as well as the Ministry to formalize the approvals granted during the meeting in Ha Noi. To the best of our knowledge, clearance from one additional governmental unit is the only remaining regulatory hurdle to advancing the Companys plans for selective breeding in Vietnam, said COO Jon Rice. The Company is now working with its consultants in Vietnam to expedite final clearance and to answer any additional questions or comments from the relevant Ministry. Obtaining this approval has been a lengthy process involving years of work in collecting data and conducting numerus meetings sharing that data with governmental agencies, said CEO and Founder Kim Thompson. The focus of those meetings has been answering their questions about our technology and how it can benefit the people and economy. We believe that the most significant bureaucratic and regulatory hurdles are now behind us. We want to thank the governmental officials and other relevant parties who worked hard during this lengthy preparation and deliberative process. We would also like to thank our loyal shareholders who have been navigating this lengthy regulatory process with us. Without their support, none of our achievements would be possible. To view the most recent edition of Kraigs Spider Sense quarterly newsletter and/or to sign up for Company alerts, please go to www.KraigLabs.com/newsletter About Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. (www.KraigLabs.com), a fully reporting biotechnology company is the leading developer of genetically engineered spider silk based fiber technologies. The Company has achieved a series of scientific breakthroughs in the area of spider silk technology with implications for the global textile industry. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information Statements in this press release about the Companys future and expectations other than historical facts are forward-looking statements. These statements are made on the basis of managements current views and assumptions. As a result, there can be no assurance that managements expectations will necessarily come to pass. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as believes, plans, expects, anticipates, foresees, estimated, hopes, if, develops, researching, research, pilot, potential, could or other words or phrases of similar import. Forward looking statements include descriptions of the Companys business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions and goals. All such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Ben Hansel, Hansel Capital, LLC (720) 288-8495 [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] High Speed Experts Open-Sources Broadband Connectivity Data and Creates Platform for Tech Consultants AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- As digital technologies race ahead at breakneck speed, IT workers and consumers alike often struggle to keep up with the latest products and services. A new online tool and IT (Information Technology) education platform, High Speed Experts, is working to help fix that problem. The core tool offered by High Speed Experts is a broadband availability tool that allows users to check their internet service options at an address level for residential service as well as business connectivity. While competing services simply make estimates based on zip code, High Speed Experts leverages proprietary data and advanced back-end logic to deliver results with an accuracy measured in meters rather than miles. This is possible thanks to a combination of public and private data sources, combining a large network of privatized "lit" address data with street-level connectivity estimations based on fiber route mapping. In addition to their refined search tool, High Speed Experts is actively partnering with technology consultants and subject-area experts to open-source IT information for the general public. In the long term, their goal is to create a central platform for sharing clear, helpful, and up-to-date IT information on subjects like Online Privacy, SD-WAN (Software Defined Wide Area Network), and CDN (Content Delivery Network) services. While they might not admit it, even senior IT workers frequently turn to web forums fr answers to tricky problems and explanations of new technologies they want to master. High Speed Experts seeks to be a better answer to their queries, and provide more unbiased information than existing forum threads and tech news outlets. Meanwhile, tech consultants and experts featured on the platform can leverage the organization's reputation for building and enhancing their standing in their field. "We like to think of it as Stack Overflow meets MacAdvisor," said High Speed Experts team member James Webb. High Speed Experts is one of the first public-facing websites to offer address-level connectivity data for residential and business Internet services. Rather than calling dozens of providers and navigating complex call centers and web portals, users can simply type in their address and instantly see detailed results with registered service at their address. The company also actively collects time-limited plans and Internet deals from providers like Verizon Fios to help consumers and businesses simplify their shopping process. "The IT industry is missing a central platform for detailed, outsider-friendly technology guides and educational content," said technology consultant Jameson Zimmer. "The High Speed Experts team holds themselves to a high standard, which is part of why I'm excited to partner with them and build great products." High Speed Experts has also launched a comprehensive city-level Internet connectivity guide in 50-plus metro areas across the USA that helps consumers access "hidden" information; for example, steps for participating in low-income Internet access programs, overviews of startup activity in growing local tech industries, and explanations of state infrastructure agendas. About High Speed Experts High Speed Experts is a broadband connectivity search engine and IT industry education platform based out of Austin, Texas. Media Contact Ana de Castro Phone: (732) 444-8934 Email: [email protected] Address: 640 Twelve Oaks Lane Austin, Texas 78704 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/high-speed-experts-open-sources-broadband-connectivity-data-and-creates-platform-for-tech-consultants-300537021.html SOURCE High Speed Experts [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Genpact Wins CSO50 Information Security Award NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Genpact (NYSE: G), a professional services firm focused on delivering digital transformation, is a recipient of the 2018 CSO50 Award from IDG's CSO, the premier content and community resource for chief security officers and other decision-makers. The CSO50 Awards recognize 50 organizations for security initiatives that demonstrate excellence in innovation, enable new ways of improving companies' security and risk posture, and deliver measureable results that drive business value. This is the second consecutive year Genpact has achieved this recognition. Genpact received the 2018 CSO50 Award for its Cyber Defense Center transformation initiative that took an innovative approach to revamp technology and processes for its cyber situational awareness, security intelligence, and response capabilities. Genpact won the 2017 CSO50 Award for its Data Loss Prevention 2.0 program that enhanced processes for securing confidential information. "Amid the seemingly constant stream of news-making security breaches, vulnerabilities introduced by new technologies and increased attention from company boards, today's security leaders have their plates more than full," said Amy Bennett, executive editor, CSO. "They and their teams are charged not only with protecting their organization's critical systems and sensitive data, but with driving business results. Our annual CSO50 awards shine a light on projects that enhance an organization's security posture and also deliver measurable ROI. We are pleased to give them the recognition they deserve." "Receiving this prestigious award underscores Genpact's commitment to information security, and the strategic role its team and program play in advancing our clients' digital transformation initiatives," said Vidya Srinivasan, senior vice president, Information Technology, Infrastructure, and Enterprise Risk, Genpact. "By minimizing risks and providing world-class defense, we create competitive advantage for our clients." A panel of judges includes security leaders, industry experts, and academics. Genpact will accept its award at the CSO50 Conference and Awards held on February 26-28, 2018, at the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona. About Genpact Genpact (NYSE: G) is a global professional services firm that makes business transformation real. We drive digital-led innovation and digitally-enabled intelligent operations for our clients, guided by our experience running thousands of processes for hundreds of Global Fortune 500 companies. We think with design, dream in digital, and solve problems with data and analytics. We obsess over operations and focus on the details all 78,000+ of us. From New York to New Delhi and more than 20 countries in between, Genpact has the end-to-end expertise to connect every dot, reimagine every process, and reinvent companies' ways of working. We know that rethinking each step from start to finish will create better business outcomes. Whatever it is, we'll be there with you putting data and digital to work to create bold, lasting results because transformation happens here. Get to know us at Genpact.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook. For more information: Danielle D'Angelo (Genpact Media Relations) [email protected] +1 914-336-7951 Rudra Bose (for Genpact India) [email protected] +91 9811626585 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/genpact-wins-cso50-information-security-award-300537767.html SOURCE Genpact [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Automation and AI Meet Human Touch: Transforming Customer Experience SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Genesys (www.genesys.com), the global leader in omnichannel customer experience and contact center solutions, is hosting free, 60-minute global webinars on Oct. 25-26 to detail the emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) trends for customer experience. Featured analyst Kate Leggett of Forrester will explain how organizations can practically apply an AI strategy that blends with human assistance to improve the entire customer journey. This webinar outlines the key use cases for how businesses can use AI today to enhance the customer experience, and it explores the critical role human touch plays in the process. Attendees will learn about Kate, the new customer experience AI from Genesys, and how companies can leverage their existing infrastructure to connect with AI platforms. What: Don't Put Your Customer Experience in Jeopardy! See how Blended AI Enhances the Power of Human Touch Businesses are focusing more than ever on improving operations and customer experience through automation across multiple departments, including marketing, customer care and digital commerce. While automation is a major game changer, it does not magically fix all issues. Blending automation with AI and the human touch delivers the most efficient and satisfying customer experiences. During this webinar, attendees will have an opportunity to engage with presenters in a Jeopardy!* style game to challenge themselves to beat the I experts. Attendees will hear about best practices, key use cases and outcomes and walk away with a better understanding about how they can get started with an AI strategy to improve customer experience. Who: Participants in the webinar include: Kate Leggett, vice president and principal analyst, Forrester Christopher Connolly , vice president, Solution Strategy, Genesys , vice president, Solution Strategy, Genesys Dipali Mehta , product marketing director, Genesys Why: Join this webinar to learn how to: Incorporate human-enabled AI into your existing operations Evaluate the cost effectiveness of AI Measure success and key use cases for improved customer experience When: Wednesday, Oct. 25 60 minutes North America: 11 a.m. PT / 2 p.m. ET Latin America: 1p.m. CDT / 3 p.m. BRT Thursday, Oct. 26 60 minutes Europe, Middle East & Africa: 2 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. CEST Asia-Pacific: 11 a.m. SGT / 1 p.m. AEST How: Register now to attend this live webinar and/or receive a post-event recording. *Jeopardy! is a popular American game show with a twistthe answers are given first and then the contestants supply the questions. About Genesys Genesys powers more than 25 billion of the world's best customer experiences each year. Our success comes from connecting employee and customer conversations on any channel, every day. Over 10,000 companies in more than 100 countries trust our #1 customer experience platform to drive great business outcomes and create lasting relationships. Combining the best of technology and human ingenuity, we build solutions that mirror natural communication and work the way you think. Our industry-leading solutions foster true omnichannel engagement because they perform equally well across channels, on-premise and in the cloud. Experience communication as it should be: fluid, instinctive and profoundly empowering. Visit genesys.com on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and the Genesys blog. All Rights reserved. Genesys is a registered trademarks of Genesys. The Genesys Logo, Blended AI, and Kate are trademarks of Genesys. Jeopardy! is a registered Trademark of Jeopardy Productions, Inc. All other company names and logos may be registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies. Contacts: Rachel Faulkner Senior Manager, PR Genesys [email protected] +1 317-715-8109 Lisa Hawes Sterling Communications [email protected] +1 408-395-5500 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/automation-and-ai-meet-human-touch-transforming-customer-experience-300537509.html SOURCE Genesys [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Modo Emerges From Reverse Stealth With New Service For Payment Event Data DALLAS, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Modo, the payments fintech working with Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Alliance Data, FIS, Verifone, and Klarna, today announced they're ready to break their self-imposed silence and discuss the work they have been doing to deliver innovative payment solutions for their clients in Q4 2017. Modo took a step back from speaking with the media, engaging on social channels and updating their website over the summer in order to focus on their clients' solutions for varying payment events. "Going dark was an easy decision for me. As a fast growing start-up, sometimes you just have to put all your oars on one side of the boat," says Bruce Parker, CEO of Modo. "I am excited about helping our clients become payment event driven. And love the fact that they asked us to deliver some of their newest and coolest experiences." Modo securely and fairly conducts the exchange of payment event data across systems on behalf of banks, networks, and payments providers. And this summer there was a whole lot of conducting going on. Their cloud-computing SaaS model enables leaders in payments and financial services to track, store and share payment event data throughout the lifecycle of the event. A "payment event" is everything before, during, and after a transaction. The event, or overall context, matters because important data can get lost during transaction processing, leading to higher cost integrations, slower time to market, and ongoing operational inefficiencies. Modo's service delivers by providing the connections, accelerating delivery, and reducing manual interventions by an order of magnitude. "To be a bit audacious, we think the traditionaltransaction systems think about payments wrong. Most systems are focused on one moment in time when talking about payments, the transaction. But there are a bunch of things that happen before, during, and after a transaction that need to be tracked, stored, and shared to unlock the real potential of the payment. That's why we are focused on the whole payment event," says Bruce Parker, CEO of Modo. Modo has already announced support for three payment event types, in diverse areas of payments with Klarna, Verifone and FIS, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch (respectively): Payout Events: Enable your corporate and commercial customers to send money globally using the ever growing number of digital wallets to accelerate the last mile of disbursements. Enable your corporate and commercial customers to send money globally using the ever growing number of digital wallets to accelerate the last mile of disbursements. Checkout Events: Checkout anywhere, using any method of payment. Whether you are a merchant or a payment provider, offer consumers any way to pay. Checkout anywhere, using any method of payment. Whether you are a merchant or a payment provider, offer consumers any way to pay. Loyalty Events: Earn and burn loyalty in entirely new ways in entirely new experiences. Combine multiple rewards and loyalty programs to make a purchase or send a gift. "What drew me to Modo was their key insight that with just four data elements, you can define any payment event, anywhere in the world, on any system. Modo's approach to payment events enables the data to and from any payment system to be reconfigured, or abstracted, which leads to seamless interoperability," explains Matthew Leavenworth, who recently joined the ModoNauts as their Chief Product Officer. Thus concludes Modo's announcement about future announcements (which is rather unlike our prior unnouncement). If you're interested in exploring what's new in the ModoVerse, head over to https://www.modopayments.com. The ModoNauts will be at Money20/20 Las Vegas on Monday, October 23rd at 11:40am in Titian Level 2 speaking with Alliance Data about data driven experiences in retail. About Modo: Modo securely and fairly conducts the exchange of payment event data on behalf of banks, payments networks and providers navigating the fintech frontier. Payment events are everything before, during, or after a transaction. Our cloud based service enables payment interoperability and accelerate innovation by allowing clients to simply store and share payment event data. Modo is proud to conduct the exchange of payment event data for some of the largest, most sophisticated players in the world including Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Klarna, Alliance Data, FIS, and more to be announced soon. To learn more about the payment events Modo has made COIN operated, head over to https://modopayments.com. Press Contact: Rob Wells, [email protected] View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/modo-emerges-from-reverse-stealth-with-new-service-for-payment-event-data-300537744.html SOURCE Modo [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] GlobalMed Taps Amendola Communications for Public Relations, Social Media and Content Marketing SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Amendola Communications, a nationally recognized, award-winning healthcare and healthcare IT public relations and marketing agency, announced today that GlobalMed, an international provider of telehealth solutions, has selected Amendola to be its communications partner. GlobalMed is the world leader in telemedicine, enabling more than 3 million telehealth consults each year in more than 55 countries. Many of the world's leading medical groups, healthcare enterprises and government agencies partner with GlobalMed to deliver best-in-class patient care using the company's unparalleled expertise in creating sustainable, integrated and connected telehealth programs. "We are delighted to have Amendola and their experienced team to assist us in communicating the value that GlobalMed brings to their clients and partners," said Patrick LaVoie, Chief Operating Officer of GlobalMed. "We selected them after a careful review and are confident that their deep heathcare expertise and content marketing experience will provide invaluable guidance and insights." Amendola will provide public relations, social media and content marketing services to advance the GlobalMed brand among key stakeholders in the U.S. healthcare industry and other commercial markets. "GlobalMed is well-known as the telehealth provider to the White House, the Veterans Administration and many other government agencies across the world, but less well-known outside of the public sector despite their size, experience, and unique value proposition," said Jodi Amendola, CEO of Amendola Communications. "We are excited to introduce GlobalMed to media and key stakeholders in the commercial healthcare industry. Our proven track record in promoting healthcare technology companies will help to elevate the GlobalMed brand among journalists, industry analysts, prospective clients, and the healthcare community at large." About GlobalMed GlobalMed's evidence-based telehealth solutions power the largest telehealth programs in the world, facilitating 3.5 million consults each year, enhancing diagnostics and improving patient outcomes in 55 countries. GlobalMed is the only vertically integrated provider of products and technology that deliver HIPAA-compliant video collaboration among healthcare professionals and patients, regardless of location. GlobalMed partners with leading medical groups, healthcare enterprises and government, and is the telehealth provider for the White House. Founded in 2002 by a Marine Corps Reserve Veteran still serving as CEO, GlobalMed is proud to be a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB). About Amendola Communications Amendola Communications is an award-winning national public relations, marketing communications, social media and content marketing firm. Named one of the best information technology (IT) PR firms in the nation four times by PRSourceCode, Amendola represents some of the best-known brands and groundbreaking startups in the healthcare and HIT industries. Amendola's seasoned team of PR and marketing pros delivers strategic guidance and effective solutions to help organizations boost their reputation and drive market share. For more information about the PR industry's "A Team," visit www.acmarketingpr.com, and follow Amendola on Twitter and LinkedIn. Media Contact: Marcia Rhodes Amendola Communications [email protected] Cell: 602-793-1561 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/globalmed-taps-amendola-communications-for-public-relations-social-media-and-content-marketing-300536107.html SOURCE Amendola Communications [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] GenePeeks Expands Distribution to India with Exclusive Agreement with CORE Diagnostics GenePeeks, Inc., a computational genomics company focused on transforming disease risk analysis, today announced an exclusive distribution agreement with CORE Diagnostics, a next-generation diagnostics provider committed to bringing best-in-class clinical technology and innovation to India. This new distribution agreement furthers GenePeeks' goal of expanding access to its breakthrough preconception screen and advanced analytics platform in new markets around the world. CORE will exclusively offer GenePeeks' preconception screen in their extensive market of twenty-nine states and seven union territories across India, greatly expanding GenePeeks global footprint. "GenePeeks is delighted to add CORE Diagnostics to our list of outstanding global partners," said Anne Morriss, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of GenePeeks. "We look forward to working with the exceptional CORE team to address the European bias embedded in traditional screening and help Indian families better understand their risk of conceiving a child with a serious genetic disease." Zoya Brar, co-founder and managing director of CORE Diagnostics stated, "We are excited to partner with GenePeeks to expand our portfolio of innovative testing srvices and support the growing interest from Indian families and their healthcare providers in preconception screening. GenePeeks' technology provides a unique opportunity to identify risk to Indian families that was often uncharacterized historically and hidden from clinical view." About GenePeeks' Screening Technology GenePeeks' preconception screening technology uniquely integrates DNA information from two genetic participants to predict the potential genomes of a future child. For every variant in these hypothetical genomes, the company's proprietary platform computes a Variant Gene Dysfunction (VGD) score that predicts the degree to which any variant, known or novel, reduces normal gene function. This breakthrough approach allows GenePeeks to go beyond the limits of the clinical data to evaluate variants that remain uncharacterized by other genetic tests, particularly variants found within global populations. About GenePeeks GenePeeks is a computational genomics company with an automated, CLIA certified platform that is transforming how genetic disease is identified. GenePeeks' patented, next-generation technology addresses the primary challenges of genomic analysis today, including the pervasiveness of rare and novel disease-causing mutations, the high incidence of variants of uncertain significance (VUS), and the population bias embedded in the clinical literature and databases. GenePeeks offers its physician-ordered services through its certified clinical laboratory. GenePeeks is privately held, with corporate offices in Cambridge, Mass. For more information, visit www.genepeeks.com. GenePeeks' preconception screening technology is available today. For more information about becoming a partner, please contact [email protected]. About CORE Diagnostics CORE Diagnostics was founded in 2012 with the goal of bringing the world's most advanced testing techniques and expertise to India. As a next-generation clinical diagnostics lab focused on disease stratification and therapy selection, CORE provides unique diagnostics with second opinions on every test and has been growing at nearly 100% each year. With well over 1000 tests in its clinical portfolio, a panel of over 100 super specialists across the world, a coverage of over 80% of the prescriber base, CORE supports clinicians in identifying a definitive diagnosis for their patients as quickly as possible. For more information, visit www.corediagnostics.in. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006000/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] GE Additive and GKN sign MoU for additive manufacturing collaboration GE Additive (NYSE: GE), Concept Laser and Arcam AB (STO: ARCM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GKN (LSE:GKN) to collaborate on Additive Manufacturing (AM). The agreement includes the provision of additive machines and services to GKN, allowing them to be a GE Additive Production Partner. GKN also becomes a non-exclusive preferred AM powder supplier to GE Additive and its affiliated companies. "GE Additive and GKN both understand the transformative power that additive manufacturing will have in the aerospace and automotive industries," said Vice President and General Manager of GE Additive, Mohammad Ehteshami. "Additive machines from Concept Laser and Arcam will bring tremendous value to this GKN relationship and we look forward to collaborating more closely in the future." As part of the agreement some of the activities include: GE Additive and its affiliated companies will become non-exclusive preferred suppliers of AM machines to GKN and its affiliates. GKN will become a GE Additive development and production partner for a range of powder bed and free form deposition technologies. GKN will collaborate with GE Additive on part development projects on powder bed machines to enable new market opportunities. GKN will become a non-exclusive preferred supplier of powder to GE Additive and GE's industrial businesses. GE Additive's Engineering Consulting Team (known as "AddWorks") will assist GKN and its affiliates with the acceleration and industrialisation of AM machines. Jos Sclater, Head of Strategy at GKN, said: "We look forward to working with GE Additive on this revolutionary technology. GKN has a strong history of producing and certifying AM parts and powder, and by working together, GKN and GE can accelerate future developments in additive manufacturing and meet the growing demand we're seeing cross a range of industries." Additive manufacturing (also called 3D printing) involves taking digital designs from computer aided design (CAD) software, and building them on an additive machine, layer by layer from metal powder. Additive components are typically lighter, more durable and more efficient than traditional casting and forged parts because they can be made as one piece, requiring less welds, joints and assembly. Because additive parts are essentially "grown" from the ground up, they generate far less waste material. Freed of traditional manufacturing restrictions, additive manufacturing dramatically expands the design possibilities for engineers. For many years, GE has been a leading end user and innovator in the additive manufacturing space. In addition to the $1.4 billion investment in Concept Laser and Arcam, GE has also invested approximately $1.5 billion in manufacturing and additive technologies over the past 10 years, developed additive applications across six GE businesses, created new services applications across the company, and earned 346 patents in material science. In 2016, the company established GE Additive to become a leading supplier of additive technology, materials and services for industries and businesses worldwide. GKN is a global engineering group, operating from more than 150 manufacturing locations in over 30 countries. GKN has been a global leader in AM for decades, with aerospace components produced, certified and flying on seven major platforms today, as well as a world-leader in AM automotive parts and a specialist powder producer. About GKN GKN plc is a global engineering group. It has three divisions; GKN Aerospace, GKN Driveline and GKN Powder Metallurgy, which operate in the aerospace and automotive markets. Over 58,000 people work in GKN companies and joint ventures in more than 30 countries. GKN is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: GKN) and recorded sales of 9.4 billion in the year to 31 December 2016. Please visit the GKN Additive website for more information. About GE Additive GE Additive is part of GE (NYSE: GE) - the world's Digital Industrial Company, transforming industry with software-defined machines and solutions that are connected, responsive and predictive. GE Additive includes additive machine providers Concept Laser and ArcamEBM; along with additive material provider AP&C and additive service provider to the medical industry, DTI (News - Alert). As a notable user of additive technologies GE recognize the value and potential it brings to modern design and manufacturing. GE is organized around a global exchange of knowledge, the "GE Store," through which each business shares and accesses the same technology, resources and intellect. GE delivers better outcomes for customers by speaking the language of industry. www.geadditive.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006012/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Accenture Announces Intention to Acquire French Digital Commerce Agency Altima Acquisition to further expand Accenture Interactive's customer experiences capabilities to help brands win and retain customers TORONTO, Oct. 17, 2017 /CNW/ - Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has entered into exclusive negotiations to acquire Altima, a full-service digital commerce agency, headquartered in France and with offices in China, Canada and the United States. The acquisition would boost Accenture Interactive's capabilities in France and other key markets to help brands attract consumers and turn them into loyal customers with differentiated and compelling digital experiences. The acquisition requires prior consultation with the relevant works councils and would be subject to customary closing conditions. Financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed. @AccentureACTIVE Announces Intent to Acquire #DigitalCommerce agency @Altima Driving Its Strategy to Build the Best #CX on the Planet Altima creates and adapts experiences for eCommerce, mobile and in-store commerce. Its work for prestigious French and global brands has been recognized with numerous awards, most recently the 2016 Trophees E-Commerce in the user experience design category and a 2016 W3 Award for design and user experience. Altima's offering spans experience strategy, user experience design, digital marketing services and multichannel commerce platform implementation. "Experiences are where brands win and lose customers, today more than ever," said Anatoly Roytman, head of Accenture Interactive Europe, Africa, Middle East, and Latin America and global digital commerce lead for Accenture. "Adding Altima's skills to Accenture Interactive will help in our mission to create the best experiences on the planet for clients." "France is home to many of the world's most exciting and successful brands," said Christian Nibourel, country managing director for Accenture in France and Benelux. "At the same time, it's a market where many international brands are trying to gain market share. The acquisition of Altima would put Accenture Interactive in France in an excellent position to help businesses innovate the digital experiences and expand their footprint, locally and internationally." "Altima and Accenture Interactive share the same culture of innovation and passion for designing the future of commerce," said Arnaud Monnier, CEO of Altima. "We are excited to join forces with the world's largest digital network. The global scale of Accenture Interactive would provide a unique opportunity for us to bring our work for clients to a new level, and offer new career opportunities to our people." Founded in 1997, Altima has a team of 370 people working from offices in Roubaix, Paris and Lyon (France), Montreal (Canada), Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong (China), and New York (U.S.). In France, the Altima team would enable Accenture Interactive to better help companies grow their customer experience offering and expand into other markets. In China, it would boost Accenture Interactive's services in commerce and content, which are critical areas for Chinese companies. In Canada, Altima recently merged its team with Montreal-based web marketing agency Konversion. The joint team will strengthen the Accenture Interactive end-to-end digital marketing services available to Canadian clients, in both English and French. Once completed, Altima would be the seventeenth acquisition Accenture Interactive has made since 2013. Recent acquisitions include MATTER, a design and innovation firm, Wire Stone, a creative marketing agency, Clearhead, a digital optimization company, and Media Hive, an e-commerce solutions specializing in Salesforce Commerce Cloud implementation (all US). Other acquisitions in 2016 and 2017 include creative agencies The Monkeys/Maud (Australia) and Karmarama (UK), communications agency Kunstmaan (Belgium), and digital agency SinnerSchrader (Germany). About Accenture Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions underpinned by the world's largest delivery network Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 425,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com. Accenture Interactive helps the world's leading brands transform their customer experiences across the entire customer journey. Through our connected offerings in design, marketing, content and commerce, we create new ways to win in today's experience-led economy. Accenture Interactive is ranked the world's largest digital agency in the latest Ad Age Agency Report. To learn more, follow us @accentureACTIVE and visit www.accentureinteractive.com. Forward-Looking Statements Except for the historical information and discussions contained herein, statements in this news release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "may," "will," "should," "likely," "anticipates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "projects," "believes," "estimates," "positioned," "outlook" and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These include, without limitation, risks that: Accenture and Altima will not be able to close the transaction in the time period anticipated, or at all, which is dependent on the parties' ability to satisfy certain closing conditions; the transaction might not achieve the anticipated benefits for Accenture; Accenture's results of operations could be adversely affected by volatile, negative or uncertain economic conditions and the effects of these conditions on the company's clients' businesses and levels of business activity; Accenture's business depends on generating and maintaining ongoing, profitable client demand for the company's services and solutions including through the adaptation and expansion of its services and solutions in response to ongoing changes in technology and offerings, and a significant reduction in such demand or an inability to respond to the changing technological environment could materially affect the company's results of operations; if Accenture is unable to keep its supply of skills and resources in balance with client demand around the world and attract and retain professionals with strong leadership skills, the company's business, the utilization rate of the company's professionals and the company's results of operations may be materially adversely affected; the markets in which Accenture competes are highly competitive, and Accenture might not be able to compete effectively; Accenture could have liability or Accenture's reputation could be damaged if the company fails to protect client and/or company data from security breaches or cyberattacks; Accenture's profitability could materially suffer if the company is unable to obtain favorable pricing for its services and solutions, if the company is unable to remain competitive, if its cost-management strategies are unsuccessful or if it experiences delivery inefficiencies; changes in Accenture's level of taxes, as well as audits, investigations and tax proceedings, or changes in tax laws or in their interpretation or enforcement, could have a material adverse effect on the company's effective tax rate, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition; Accenture's results of operations could be materially adversely affected by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; Accenture's business could be materially adversely affected if the company incurs legal liability; Accenture's work with government clients exposes the company to additional risks inherent in the government contracting environment; Accenture might not be successful at identifying, acquiring, investing in or integrating businesses, entering into joint ventures or divesting businesses; Accenture's Global Delivery Network is increasingly concentrated in India and the Philippines, which may expose it to operational risks; as a result of Accenture's geographically diverse operations and its growth strategy to continue geographic expansion, the company is more susceptible to certain risks; adverse changes to Accenture's relationships with key alliance partners or in the business of its key alliance partners could adversely affect the company's results of operations; Accenture's services or solutions could infringe upon the intellectual property rights of others or the company might lose its ability to utilize the intellectual property of others; if Accenture is unable to protect its intellectual property rights from unauthorized use or infringement by third parties, its business could be adversely affected; Accenture's ability to attract and retain business and employees may depend on its reputation in the marketplace; if Accenture is unable to manage the organizational challenges associated with its size, the company might be unable to achieve its business objectives; any changes to the estimates and assumptions that Accenture makes in connection with the preparation of its consolidated financial statements could adversely affect its financial results; many of Accenture's contracts include payments that link some of its fees to the attainment of performance or business targets and/or require the company to meet specific service levels, which could increase the variability of the company's revenues and impact its margins; Accenture's results of operations and share price could be adversely affected if it is unable to maintain effective internal controls; Accenture may be subject to criticism and negative publicity related to its incorporation in Ireland; as well as the risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed under the "Risk Factors" heading in Accenture plc's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and other documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements in this news release speak only as of the date they were made, and Accenture undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements made in this news release or to conform such statements to actual results or changes in Accenture's expectations. SOURCE Accenture [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] FileCloud Unveils 'Breach Intercept' to Safeguard Organizations Against Dramatic Increase in Cyber Attacks FileCloud, the cloud-agnostic EFSS platform, today announced FileCloud Breach Intercept. The newest version of FileCloud offers advanced ransomware protection to help customers handle every phase of a cyberattack: prevention, detection and recovery. FileCloud is deployed across 90 countries and has more than 100 VARs and Managed Service Providers across the world. Deployed by Fortune 500 and Global 2000 firms, including the world's leading law firms, government organizations, science and research organizations and world-class universities, FileCloud offers a set of unique features that help organizations build effective anti-ransomware strategies. Global ransomware damage costs are expected to total more than $5 billion dollars in 2017, compared to $325 million dollars in 2015. Ransomware is growing at an estimated yearly rate of 350 percent with business enterprises becoming the priority target for hackers. Enterprise File Sharing and Sync (EFSS) solutions have seen an increase in ransomware attacks with 40 percent of spam emails containing links to ransomware. Whereas public cloud EFSS solutions such as Box (News - Alert) and Dropbox offer centralized targets for ransomware attacks, FileCloud's decentralized private cloud reduces your company's exposure to potential attacks. "Anyone with access to a computer is a potential threat, and the cloud their personal armory," said Venkat Ramasamy, COO at FileCloud. "Why rummage through hundreds of houses when you can rob a bank? Hackers target centralized storage such as Dropbox (News - Alert) or Box rather than self-hosted FileCloud solutions. The freedom to choose the cloud platform that best meets the unique dynamics of each business is our line in the sand of competitive differentiation." Breach Intercept: Cyberdefense via customization The best defense against a phishing attack is to make sure your employees can differentiate genuine communication from malicious spoofing. Hackers can easily spoof email from public SaaS (News - Alert) products, which have a standardized, easily falsifiable format. FileCloud offers unparalleled branding and customization tools, allowing you to set your own policies, and design your own emails and broadcast alerts. Customized emails and UX significantly reduce spoofing risk as hackers can't run a mass spoofing unless they have an exact copy of an email from one of your employees. Granular controlled folder access With FileCloud Breach Intercept, you can set different levels of access between top-level folders and sub-folders. Administrators can set read/write/delete/share permissions for any user at any folder level, and permissions are not necessarily inherited according to folder structure, limiting propagation. Real-time content / behavior heuristic engine State-of-the-industry heuristic analysis works to detect threats in real time and suspicious content and user activity will activate security protocols and prevent ransomware from taking hold. For example, if FileCloud detects a file posing as a Word document, the system halts the upload and sends an alert to the administrator, preventing propagation of an attack. Unlimited versioning and backup to rollback Unlimited versioning and server backup helps companies recover from any data loss accident, including ransomware. FileCloud can roll back not only employee files but also entire server files to any specific date and time before the attack. FileCloud is available for immediate download from our customer portal. For more information or to download FileCloud Breach Intercept, please visit www.getfilecloud.com. About FileCloud FileCloud is based in Austin, Texas, and is a developer of unified, secure enterprise file service platform that organizes enterprise data, enhances collaboration and productivity, while providing ironclad data protection. FileCloud's file sharing solutions offer powerful file sharing, sync, and mobile access capabilities on public, private and hybrid clouds. The company offers two products - Tonido for consumers, and FileCloud for businesses - that are used by millions of customers around the world, ranging from individuals to Global 2000 enterprises, educational institutions, government organizations, and managed service providers. For more information, visit www.getfilecloud.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006071/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] KYN Capital Group, Inc. (KYNC) Engages LQD Ventures LLC To Provide Assistance in Regulation A+ Offering NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- KYN Capital Group, Inc. (OTC PINK:KYNC), a diversified holding company, announced that it entered into an agreement (the Minivest Agreement) with LQD Ventures LLC (LQD). Under this agreement, LQD will advise and host the Company on its Regulation A+ crowdfunding platform, Minivest.com (Minivest). KYNC and Minivest will work together to build a crowdfunding platform to market and advertise the Company, to monitor thetest the waters stage, and to host the Regulation A+ offering. Also, Minivest will provide other business advisory services to the Company as necessary related to a prospective offering, and its crowdfunding page. The Company engaged legal counsel to prepare and file its Regulation A+ offering circularwith the Securities and Exchange Commission. LQD received compensation for its services through the one time issuance of a $100,000 Convertible Promissory Note, dated August 3, 2017. LQD intends to place such securities into the market place upon the sooner of (1) the effectiveness of a registration statement as to such securities; or (2) the availability of Rule 144 as to the re-sale for such securities. Principals of LQD Ventures LLC may be investors or advisors of the Company, posted on Minivest. Mr. Clem Yeboah, Chief Executive Officer of KYN Capital Group, commented, "With this step, we believe that the Minivest platform, the expertise of LQD, and new legal counsel, together positions KYNC to be prepared for the next level of business activities. About KYN Capital Group KYN Capital Group, Inc. (OTC PINK:KYNC) is a holding company of diverse companies that offers technical services geared for protection in corporate computing and security applications for cloud. The Company has developed technical support, engineering support as well as frontline phone support for business transactions for diversified customers and clients in US markets. Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect our views with respect to future events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statement was made. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. KYN Capital disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement made herein. Please refer to KYN Capitals Disclosure Statement (Disclosure Statement) first published on May 28, 2015, on www.otcmarkets.com, and most recently updated on August 31, 2017 for a more complete description of KYN Capitals operations. The summary description contained herein is qualified in its entirety to the fuller description contained in the Disclosure Statement. Contact Information: Clem A. Yeboah, CEO KYN Capital Group, Inc. 535 Fifth Avenue, 4th Floor New York, NY 10017 Email: [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] CNSI Awarded 4.5 Year, $35 million Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Contract ROCKVILLE, Md., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- CNSI, which delivers a broad range of health information technology (IT) enterprise solutions and customizable products to help clients achieve their mission, enhance business performance, and improve the health of over 28 million Americans, announced that it was awarded a 4.5 year contract to engineer, develop, maintain, and support the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) next generation Encounter Data Processing System (EDPS) for Medicare Part C claims. Encounter data, as it's known, is the service record containing clinical and diagnostic information generated by health care providers during visits by Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) beneficiaries. CMS collects and analyzes the data centrally, then makes the appropriate adjustments to Medicare Advantage Organization reimbursements. Processing tens of millions of encounters weekly and making the appropriate adjustments in a timely manner, as required by law is a monumental technological task that is addressed by the EDPS. "In the last decade, CNSI has developed unparalleled experience in large-scale health IT projects," said Vijay Mishra, CNSI Senior Vice President of Federal Programs. "From our implementation of several state Mediaid Management Information Systems to our experience operating the existing EDPS, we are perfectly suited to execute this project." For the past five years, CNSI has worked as a subcontractor maintaining the operations of the existing Encounter Data Processing System (EDPS) that uses CNSI's encounter processing engine. Over the years, CNSI has made significant investments in modernizing its claims processing platform by implementing an innovative system architecture to be hosted on AWS cloud and can handle a skyrocketing number of encounters while significantly improving accuracy. "Our EDPS team has done incredible work and I'm so pleased to see CMS recognize the experience, expertise, and results by awarding CNSI a contract to develop the next generation of the system," added Adnan Ahmed, CNSI Co-founder and President. "The EDPS is a critical piece of public health infrastructure. As a company, we have a long history of executing enterprise-level health IT projects. I'm excited to see CNSI meet and exceed CMS' expectations for the next generation EDPS." About CNSI CNSI delivers a broad range of health information technology (IT) enterprise solutions and customizable products to a diverse base of federal and state agencies. We align, build and manage innovative, high-quality, cost-effective solutions that help clients achieve their mission, enhance business performance and improve the health for over 28 million Americans. Formed in 1994, CNSI is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, with locations throughout the U.S. and India. CNSI employs a world-class team of technologists, program managers, and subject matter experts, all of whom have experience with large scale mission-critical IT implementations. Formed in 1994, CNSI is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, with locations throughout the U.S. and India. CNSI's website is: http://www.cns-inc.com. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cnsi-awarded-45-year-35-million-centers-for-medicare--medicaid-services-contract-300537962.html SOURCE CNSI [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] 3D Smart Display LLC opens in the USA JUPITER, Fla., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- We are pleased to announce that 3D Smart Display LLC has opened USA offices as an extension to our current successful business in Europe. The USA office will manage business in the Americas and also Asia. Harm Meyer, long time business sales executive in Technology, will manage the USA business and engage with top Brands, Retailers in the region and Asia. 3D Smart Display offers enhanced digital signage solutions to manufacturers and retailers worldwide who are looking to engage customers more deeply at POS with an exceptional informative journey with their products; ultimately leading to increased revenues and customer acquisition for the manufacturer or retailer. The displays are developed, powered and driven by 3D Werk GmbH in Bielefeld, Germany. 3D Smart DisplayLLC President Harm Meyer, "This is the future of Retail. We have taken it above and beyond standard digital signage. The smart display captures customers' inputs and interacts directly with customers at POS to take them to a successful purchase of the product they want. "The Smart Display will capture many analytics of this interaction which will enhance the retailers or manufacturers continued targeted marketing campaigns. Complete with Mobile Integrations, the Smart Display will connect with each customer at POS providing tremendous uplift in customer experience, new revenues, and Brand Relationship." For the Manufacturers and Retailers: The analytics can be downloaded from 3D Smart Display servers with a variety of data points from thousands of retail outlets worldwide providing a very accurate planogram of customer interactions with products. Who they are, what they interacted with, how they interacted, and what product they bought. Online marketing display content can be easily updated with 1 content 'push' worldwide to every display. Harm continues, "The product has already won many awards in Germany and is now poised to be launched worldwide. I am very excited to be part of this business and I am looking forward to driving and growing this business into the USA and Asian retail markets." Contact: Harm Meyer. +1 360 473 9412 [email protected] View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/3d-smart-display-llc-opens-in-the-usa-300537531.html SOURCE 3D Smart Display LLC [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Zoot Enterprises Partners With Relay Network To Offer Real-Time Customer Engagement Solutions BOZEMAN, Mont. and RADNOR, Penn., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Zoot Enterprises and Relay Network have announced that they have formalized an agreement to provide Zoot clients access to Relay's mobile communication platform for secure, immediate customer engagement. With the rise of mobile and online financial portals, clients rely on Zoot to identify new ways to support and engage with individuals to drive new account growth and improve customer experience. The partnership will bring a secure, Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)-compliant, and instant communication solution to institutions that rely on Zoot for their platform needs across a wide variety of industries including financial services, merchant services, telecom, insurance, and healthcare. By creating secure, instant connections through the Relay platform, businesses are delivering superior customer experiences during and after the account opening process. They are also providing customers with a familiar and easy-to-use mobile communication channel that allows for secure, two-way information flow, and results in less abandonment and quicker resolutions for outstanding issues. "We're excited to partner with Relay Network to provide our clients the ability to communicate on a one-to-one level with engaged, committed consumers," said Travis Tuss, Senior VP of Sales and Marketing at Zoot. "This partnership enables us to offer a secure, instant method of communication that consumers readily adopt," Tuss added. Relay Network enables organizations to engage customers with personalized mobile communications on a secure, interactive channel to improve customer satisfaction, generate growth, and increase retention. The Philadelphia-based company provides businesses with a platform to communicate and interact with customers through a personalized message feed deliverd directly to an individual's mobile phone. In addition, Relay's Branded Messages feature, launched in June 2017, helps businesses facilitate customer communications across multiple departments or product lines in a single feed. "We are witnessing the fastest technology revolution in history. Mobile has fundamentally changed the way we interact with the people and businesses that matter most to us," explained Matt Gillin, co-founder and CEO of Relay Network. "Relay is designed specifically to give businesses the power to create the easiest, most convenient customer interactions by enabling secure and effective communication over mobile channels, where consumers are spending the majority of their time," Gillin said. "Mobile engagement is the new norm and this partnership with Zoot will allow clients to easily integrate a valuable tool for connecting with customers at key moments in the customer journey," Gillin added. About Zoot Enterprises For over 25 years, Zoot Enterprises has been a global provider of advanced origination, acquisition, and decision management solutions. Its customer-centric tools and services enable Zoot's clients to add value and differentiation, while providing nimble, scalable solutions to specific business objectives. A leader in the fintech industry, Zoot's cloud based secure processing environment delivers millisecond real-time decisions accessing hundreds of cutting edge data sources to help reduce risk and increase conversions. The company's international client base includes major financial institutions, retailers and payment providers. Zoot - From Data to Decision. For more information, please visit www.zootweb.com or call 406-556-7555. Zoot can be found on social media on Twitter @ZootEnterprises and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/zootenterprises. About Relay Network Relay Network, designated a 2017 Gartner Cool Vendor in CRM Customer Service and Support, provides a mobile customer communications platform that instantly connects businesses with their customers for secure, immediate engagement. Using Relay's award-winning platform, businesses can create, deliver, and automate guided service experiences that direct the right customer, through the right process, with the right tools individually and at scale. The company's enterprise clients across financial services, healthcare, insurance, cable and energy use Relay's solution to communicate more effectively with their customers in order to drive growth, create efficiencies, and improve the customer experience. For more information, visit http://www.relaynetwork.com. MEDIA CONTACT INFORMATION Blythe Beaubien Zoot Public Relations Manager [email protected] 406-556-8904 Brie Tascione Relay Network [email protected] 508-524-6141 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zoot-enterprises-partners-with-relay-network-to-offer-real-time-customer-engagement-solutions-300532808.html SOURCE Zoot Enterprises [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Hyperloop Transportation Technologies Collaborates with Munich Re to Insure Hyperloop PLAYA VISTA, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyperloop Transportation Technologies announced today that HTT's Hyperloop technology is feasible and insurable. After analysing risks and challenges, Munich Re has created the first Hyperloop Transportation Technologies Risk Report. Over the past year, a project team within Munich Re's Special Enterprise Risks Unit had been set up to consider the risks and challenges facing HTT's Hyperloop technology. Risk landscapes were developed not only for HTT, but also for HTT's Hyperloop technology itself. These risk landscapes shed light on enterprise and technological risk and document relevant external and internal influencing variables. The risk report forms the foundation for active strategic risk management. Munich Re is of the opinion that the Hyperloop technology developed by HTT is both feasible and insurable in the medium term and that delivering the system demands a model represented by HTT's innovative approach. (Abstract can be found here) Torsten Jeworrek, member of the Munich Re Board of Management, said of the forward-looking cooperation, "The technology developed by HTT is set to fundamentally change the way we travel in the future. Such technological shifts give rise to new insurance needs that demand innovative solutions which our Hyperloop team at Corporate Insurance Partner is happy to develop." Dirk Ahlborn, CEO and co-founder of HTT added, "Offering an insurable system is a massive milestone for this groundbreaking technology. As we move forward with commercialization of the system and our technology, our biggest challenge remains the creation of a new regulatory framework." "With one of the world's leading insurance companies as a partner, we are able to integrate a risk management framework into our planning proces," Bibop Gresta, Chairman and co-founder of HTT said. "Now with further validation that our technologies and system are feasible and insurable, we are ready to build. We are delighted to have found an innovative partner in Munich Re that takes a constructive and cooperative approach to our very specific needs." As a leading risk carrier, Munich Re provides fundamental support for the corporate development of HTT and the commercial viability of Hyperloop technology. The cooperation demonstrates how Munich Re does not merely assume risks, but also supports companies with services that are tailored to their specific risks. Further cooperation between Munich Re and Hyperloop Transportation Technologies will expand the boundaries of transportation and insurability. About Munich Re Munich Re stands for exceptional solution-based expertise, consistent risk management, financial stability and client proximity. This is how Munich Re creates value for clients, shareholders and staff. In the financial year 2016, the group which combines primary insurance and reinsurance under one roof achieved a profit of 2.6bn. It operates in all lines of insurance, with over 43,000 employees throughout the world. With premium income of around 28bn from reinsurance alone, it is one of the world's leading reinsurers. Especially when clients require solutions for complex risks, Munich Re is a much sought-after risk carrier. Its primary insurance operations are concentrated mainly in ERGO, one of the leading insurance groups in Germany and Europe. ERGO is represented in over 30 countries worldwide and offers a comprehensive range of insurances, provision products and services. In 2016, ERGO posted premium income of 16.0bn. Munich Re's global investments (excluding insurance-related investments) amounting to 219bn are managed by MEAG, which also makes its competence available to private and institutional investors outside the Group. About HTT Hyperloop Transportation Technologies Inc. (HTT) is an innovative transportation and technology company focused on realizing the Hyperloop, a system that moves people and goods at unprecedented speeds safely, efficiently, and sustainably. Through the use of unique, patented technology and an advanced business model of lean collaboration, open innovation and integrated partnership, HTT is creating and licensing technologies. Founded in 2013, HTT is a global team comprised of more than 800 engineers, creatives and technologists in 52 multidisciplinary teams, with 40 corporate and university partners. Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, HTT has offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, UAE; Bratislava, Slovakia; Toulouse, France; and Barcelona, Spain. HTT has signed agreements in California, Slovakia, Abu Dhabi, the Czech Republic, France, Indonesia and Korea. HTT is led by co-founders Dirk Ahlborn (CEO) and Bibop Gresta (Chairman) and a senior management team of experienced entrepreneurs and professionals. For more information or media inquiries, contact [email protected] or visit http://hyperloop.global/. Hyperloop Transportation Technologies' images and assets can be found here Contact: Ben Cooke Director of Media Relations (310) 720-1214 [email protected] View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hyperloop-transportation-technologies-collaborates-with-munich-re-to-insure-hyperloop-300537989.html SOURCE Hyperloop Transportation Technologies [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Rasmussen College Hosting Free Virtual Career Fair MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Rasmussen College, a regionally accredited1 private college, will host its first Virtual Career Fair Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. CDT. The free event will help students, graduates and community members advance their job-seeking skills and gain access to career experts and leading employers from across the country. Job seekers will have the opportunity to network with potential employers, receive resume consultations and participate in mock interviews with Rasmussen College career development professionals. The event allows for convenient access to real-time hiring professionals from the comfort of your own home or office. "Our strong commitment to our students and the diverse communities we serve extends far beyond the classroom as we work to prepare students to thrive in today's digital economy," said Dr. Trenda Boyum-Breen, president, Rasmussen College. "We recognize traditional ways of recruiting qualified candidates can be limiting, which is why we are proud to provide an alternative, virtual career fair experience this year. This will give both employers and job seekers an exciting opportunity to connect with individuals from across the country, on their own time." Benefits of Attending a Virtual Career Fair This new take on traditional career fairs elimnates potential hassles of an in-person event and allows busy job seekers to accomplish what matters most: meeting recruiters to discuss qualifications and open positions. Benefits of attending a virtual career fair include: No long lines to speak to employers, which allows job seekers to build their network of potential career opportunities more efficiently. Greater accessibility for both the job seeker and the employer. Candidates have access to employers from across the country and from a variety of in-demand fields. Participate from a comfortable and less intimidating environment. Time barriers are considerably lessened; job seekers can log in and out of the virtual platform on their own time and from anywhere. For more information on how to make the most out of a virtual career fair, visit our blog. For a complete list of employers that are participating in the Rasmussen College Virtual Career Fair, please visit: http://bit.ly/vcfemployers. To register for the event, please visit: http://bit.ly/rasvcf2017. 1 Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. hlcommission.org | 800-621-7440 ABOUT RASMUSSEN COLLEGE: Rasmussen College is a regionally accredited private college and Public Benefit Corporation that is dedicated to changing lives and the communities it serves through high-demand and flexible educational programs. Since 1900, the College has been committed to academic innovation and providing a high standard of education while empowering students to pursue a college degree. Rasmussen College offers Certificate and Diploma programs through Associate's, Bachelor's and Master's degree programs online and across its 22 Midwest and Florida campuses. A pioneer in online education, the College is helping lead advancements in innovations such as competency-based education and comprehensive student support services that help working adults advance their careers. The College is also committed to providing a positive impact on society through public service and a variety of community-based initiatives. For more information about Rasmussen College, please visit www.rasmussen.edu. Contact: Molly Andersen Phone: 952-844-5647 Mobile: 903-920-4366 Email: [email protected] View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rasmussen-college-hosting-free-virtual-career-fair-300538019.html SOURCE Rasmussen College [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] A Madison woman suffered leg injuries, including a broken leg, Monday afternoon when a car backed into her on the Near East Side then drove away. The hit and run crash happened at about 12:45 p.m. in the 200 block of North Paterson Street, Madison police said. The woman was removing groceries from her car when the incident happened. "Witnesses said a silver Toyota sedan backed into the victim, pinning her between the Toyota and the victim's parked car," said police spokesman Joel DeSpain. Anyone with information about the hit and run crash is asked to call Crime Stoppers, 266-6014. [October 17, 2017] ProtectStar Camera Guard 2 Professional - Improved Webcam and Mic Protection for Mac MIAMI, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ProtectStar today is proud to announce the release and immediate availability of Camera Guard 2 Professional for Mac, an important upgrade to their popular security solution. The app protects any Mac's built-in webcam and microphone from being accessed by hackers, malware, and spyware. Version 2 brings improved protection against unauthorized access to the Mac microphone and camera, as well as added protection against Mac ransomware. Camera Guard 2 Professional sits quietly in the background, monitoring the Mac's built-in microphone and webcam for any unauthorized access attempts. The app efficiently blocks any detected attempts, while also alerting the Mac user to the attempts. The utility blocks both known and unknown attacks methods, thanks to its exclusive "Deep Detective" feature. "When we discovered that illegal monitoring of Mac users via their computer's microphone and camera was on the rise we created Camera Guard 2016, which offered complete protection against unauthorized access of your Mac's camera and microphone," says Chris Bohn, CEO of ProtectStar. "Now that Mac ransomware is on the rise, holding users' data hostage until the bad guys are paid, we knew we had to offer our users comprehensive protection against ransomware attacks, keeping their data safe from harm." Camera Guard 2 still includes ProtectStar's better than ever exclusive "Deep Detective" feature, which monitors all ttempted access to any protected Mac. While offering proactive protection that is similar to other companies' firewall or intrusion detection utilities, Deep Detective also reports and protects against both known and unknown attacks, via its modern heuristic methods. While offering comprehensive protection against monitoring and malware, Camera Guard 2 has been built from the ground up to be a lightweight yet powerful solution, which places minimal demands on any Mac's available resources. Use of the computer's processing power, battery power, available memory, and disk space are kept to a minimum. The app will never slow the performance of any Mac it is installed on. "We're excited about the new protection abilities we've included in the latest version of Camera Guard," says Niklas Mayle, Security Manager of the Development Team at ProtectStar. "Not only can our users rest easy that they aren't being monitored by the bad guys via their own Mac, they can also prevent ransomware attacks by those same bad guys with just a few clicks of their mouse!" Device Requirements: * Mac OS 10.11 or higher (Supports macOS High Sierra) * 64-bit Processor * 50 MB * Internet connection for activation and updates Pricing and Availability: Camera Guard 2 Professional for Mac is $29.90 USD (or an equivalent amount in other currencies) and includes 12-months of updates/upgrades and technical support. A Care Plan is also available for $59.90 USD, and includes 3-years of updates/upgrades and premium technical support Links: ProtectStar website: https://www.protectstar.com Camera Guard 2 Professional for Mac: https://www.protectstar.com/en/camera-guard Purchase and Download: https://www.protectstar.com/en/shop-camera-guard Photos: https://www.prlog.org/12670708 Press release distributed by PRLog View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/protectstar-camera-guard-2-professional---improved-webcam-and-mic-protection-for-mac-300538051.html SOURCE ProtectStar Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Unite Private Networks Announces Deployment of Small Cell Projects Across Four States KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unite Private Networks (UPN), a leading provider of high-capacity, fiber-based communication networks is pleased to announce a small cell expansion project in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Texas. The new heavy-count fiber project is in support of two major wireless carriers. The network adds to the existing extensive fiber-optic infrastructure in the Des Moines, Dallas and Kansas City metro areas, as well as expanding into Denton, Texas and Kansas City, Kansas. As data demands increase exponentially, strategically placed small cells enhance the macro network by providing capacity offload, said Cindy Malley, Carrier Sales Director at Unite Private Networks. This enhances user experience while keeping communities connected. We now provide dark fiber and small cell connectivity to all four major wireless carriers, and re looking forward to deploying our 600th small cell during this project. We are excited to expand our reach in several core UPN markets, said Terry Bellinger, Senior Vice President of Carrier Sales at Unite Private Networks. We look forward to providing broader access to the suite of UPN products, including Ethernet services from 10 Mbps to 100 Gbps, wavelength services, Internet access, and dark fiber to customers in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Texas. About Unite Private Networks: UPN provides high-bandwidth, fiber-based communications networks and services to schools, governments, carriers, data centers, hospitals, and enterprise business customers across a 20 state service area. Service offerings include dark and lit fiber, private line, metro-optical Ethernet, Internet access, data center services, and other customized solutions. Headquartered in Kansas City, MO, UPN has been providing customer focused communications solutions since 1998. For more information on UPN, please visit www.uniteprivatenetworks.com, or connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Media Contact: Brandi Tubb 816-903-9400 [email protected] [October 17, 2017] Mocana to Present at Pivotal Cyber and IoT Industry Events SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mocana Corporation, the leading provider of mission-critical IoT security solutions for industrial control systems and the Internet of Things, today announced that the company will be speaking and exhibiting at several events focused on cybersecurity and IoT, including the 2017 ICS Cyber Security Conference in Atlanta, Georgia; 2017 IoT Security Summit in New York, New York; and 2017 Arm TechCon, in Santa Clara, California. ICS Cyber Security (October 23-25, 2017 -- Atlanta, Georgia): The ICS Cyber Security Conference is the longest-running cyber security-focused conference for the industrial control systems sector. The conference accommodates those in the domains of energy, utility, chemical, transportation, manufacturing and other industrial and critical infrastructure organizations. Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Dean Weber, will present two sessions at the conference: Moving Beyond Defense in Depth Perimeter Defenses with Deep Cyber Controls and Making Sense of the Myriad Cybersecurity Standards on October 23rd and the 24th. The company will also be demonstrating its solutions in the exhibition hall at the conference. What: Mocana CTO Dean Weber will present at the 2017 ICS Cyber Security Conference Where: InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta, 3315 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, Georgia When: Monday October 23, 2017 at 9:00am EST and Tuesday October 24 at 2017 at 3:30pm EDT. IoT SecuritySummit (October 23-24, 2017 -- New York, New York): The 3rd Annual IoT Security Summit brings together those at the forefront of IoT and security innovation. The conference will primarily concentrate on security and privacy with emphases in IoT and blockchain infrastructure and identity management & authentication. Mocanas CEO, William Diotte, will deliver a keynote that provides an in-depth look at the impact of IoT on enterprise security. In addition, Mocana will exhibiting its solutions at event. What: Mocana CEO William Diotte will present at the 2017 IoT Security Summit. Where: InterContinental Times Square, 300 W 44th St, New York, New York When: Tuesday October 24, 2017 at 11:30am EDT. Arm TechCon (October 24-26, 2017 -- Santa Clara, California): Arm TechCon offers the worlds largest conference dedicated to Arm technologies. The conference covers a range of topics from embedded software development to trust and security. Arm TechCon will address the real-world problems that software developer, hardware engineers, and tech executives face on a daily basis. Mocana will be demonstrating its Mocana IoT Security Platform at its booth in the Arm TechCon exhibition hall. What: Mocana will be exhibiting at the 2017 Arm TechCon. Where: Santa Clara Convention Center (Booth # 413), 5001 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, California When: October 24-25, 2017 from 8:30am-5:30pm PDT and October 26, 2017 from 8:30am-4:30pm PDT. Companies interested in scheduling a meeting with Mocana at upcoming events should visit https://www.mocana.com/meet-mocana-at-an-event. Topics: cybersecurity, IoT Security, cybersecurity standards. ICS Security Conference, Arm TechCon, IoT Security Summit, Arm Technologies, and cyber defenses About Mocana Corporation Founded in 2002, Mocana provides mission-critical IoT security solutions for embedded systems, industrial controls and the Internet of Things (IoT). Our proven cybersecurity software goes beyond traditional security approaches by making IoT and ICS devices trustworthy and enabling secure device-to-cloud communications. Mocana's full-stack platform operates across complex, multi-vendor environments where performance and security are critical to ensuring safety and reliability. Hundreds of industrial and IoT companies depend on Mocana's military-grade technology to protect millions of IoT devices, controllers and embedded systems. www.mocana.com Press Contact: Jeannette Bitz Witz Communications 510.599.5499 [email protected] On-site Contact: Keao Caindec, Vice President of Marketing Mocana Corporation 415-307-7324 [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Calian's Systems Engineering Division Signs Agreement With DCT DELTA to Provide DOCSIS Remote PHY Module Solution OTTAWA, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calian Group Ltd. (TSX:CGY) is pleased to report that its Systems Engineering Division (SED) has been awarded a contract by DCT DELTA GmbH, based in Bodman, Germany, as the Calian division solidifies its position as a leading designer of DOCSIS 3.1 Remote PHY technologies for more efficient coax cable networks. Under the contract, Calian will design and develop a cable network DOCSIS 3.0/3.1 Remote PHY hardware module for DCT DELTA's family of industry-leading HFC (Hybrid Fiber Coax)-based fibre node products. While the contract is not financially material to Calian, it represents a key win in the evolution of its communication products business. The cable industry, facing capacity challenges and cost pressures due to increasing consumer demand for higher-bandwidth services, is looking to the DOCSIS 3.1 next-generation CableLabs standard. This new standard enables higher-bandwidth services by more fully utilizing the co-axial cable network component of existing cable systems. DOCSIS 3.1 Remote PHY technologies will enable cable operators to make more efficient use of their existing coax networks and offer customers higher internet data speeds. Under the terms of the contract, Calian's SED is developing a dedicated DOCSIS Remote PHY hardware module for integration into DCT DELTAs fibre node platform. The development will combine SEDs DOCSIS 3.0/3.1 Remote PHY Intellectual Property (IP) with a sophisticated yet flexible custom hardware platform based on the latest generation of programmable logic and analog signal processing devices available in the marketplace. DCT DELTAs high-end fibre platform enables an optimized Remote PHY setup which can be positioned closer to the end-customer. SED is very pleased to be working with DCT DELTA at the very forefront of this exciting new technology. This project builds on our position as a leading designer/manufacturer of DOCSIS 3.0/3.1 Remote PHY IP. We are confident that our solution will enable DCT DELTA to offer their customers the ultimate combination of power efficiency, performance, and versatility. Operators will be able to cost effectively evolve their solutions while maintaining existing technology investments, stated Patrick Thera, President of Calians SED division. This is increasingly critical in the face of continual and rapid evolution of technology in the cable network space. This contract combines SEDs DOCSIS 3.0/3.1 Remote PHY IP and expertise in generating compelling hardware designs with DCT DELTAs industry leading fiber node product portfolio and vast expertise in hybrid fiber/coax technology to create a next generation Remote PHY node perfectly aligned with emerging requirements fo distributed access architectures, stated Ulrich Kiebler, DCT DELTAs President and CEO. DCT DELTA has already established our DOCSIS 3.1 fibre and coaxial products in many markets around the world and is now aggressively expanding our portfolio to include Remote RHY. We are very excited about the new opportunities in HFC networks as architectures evolve and we look forward to further discussions with existing and new customers about their needs in this space. Evolution of our service lines is a key element of our growth strategy. Our continued focus, investment and success in the development of communication products is another great example of the innovation happening at Calian, stated Kevin Ford, Calian President and CEO. This contract with DCT DELTA is an exciting development for the company. About DCT DELTA DCT DELTA is an innovative manufacturer and solution provider in the area of broadband connectivity via cable, satellite and fibre infrastructures. Our customers include the biggest cable and satellite operators of the world as well as many alternative carriers and system integrators. With more than 2.0 million amplifiers in the field, the company has established itself as a leading provider and well-respected partner in the HFC fibre node equipment market. For inquiries, please visit our website at www.dct-delta.de, or contact us at [email protected] About Calian SED Communication Products SEDs Communication Products business designs and delivers high performance mixed digital and analog products employing the latest field programmable logic and digital processing technologies. Our extensive involvement to date in the DOCSIS 3.1 community positions us well to pursue and win business in the transition to more distributed networks that is now occurring in the cable network space. About Calian Calian employs more than 2,800 people with offices and projects that span Canada, U.S. and international markets. The company's capabilities are diverse with services delivered through two divisions. The Business and Technology Services (BTS) Division is headquartered in Ottawa and includes the provision of business and technology services to industry, public and government in the health, training, engineering and IT services domains. Calians Systems Engineering Division (SED), located in Saskatoon plans, designs and implements complex communication systems for many of the worlds space agencies and leading satellite manufacturers and operators. SED also provides contract manufacturing services for both private sector and military customers in North America. For product inquiries please contact us at [email protected]. For all other inquiries, please visit our website at www.calian.com, or contact us at [email protected]. Kevin Ford President and Chief Executive Officer 613-599-8600 Jacqueline Gauthier Chief Financial Officer 613-599-8600 Media inquiries: Simon Doyle 613-599-8600 x 205 DISCLAIMER Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as intend, anticipate, believe, estimate, expect or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Companys most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them. Calian Head Office 340 Legget Drive, Suite 101 Ottawa Ontario Canada K2K 1Y6 Tel: 613.599.8600 Fax: 613.599.8650 General Info email: [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Chemistree Engaged by Hydroselect VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Chemistree Technology Inc. (CSE:CHM) (OTCQB:CHMJF) (the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company has been engaged by Hydroselect Holdings Ltd. of Surrey, BC to assist them with their social media marketing and brand development. Hydroselect is a leading online supplier of hydroponic growing equipment, offering clients access to thousands of products including lighting, hydroponic equipment, nutrients and accessories from all the leading names in the industry. Hydroselect also provides a tremendous service by offering cutting edge educational videos on weekly basis to keep consumers informed and up to date on all topics across the growing landscape. President Karl Kottmeier said, I am happy to announce that Hydroselect has chosen Chemistree to assist them with social media marketing and brand development as they continue to grow their business in Canada and the United States.Chemistree has continued to expand its social media team and is actively looking to expand its physical presence in Washington to support its business in the Pacific Northwest. Chemistree also announces that it is in discussions with a major Oregon-based cannabis cultivator to potentially provide a comprehensive suite of marketing and branding services including social media marketing, physical product marketing and branding and graphic design creation and consulting. Graphic design work would be a new offering from Chemistree and the service is currently in its infancy at the company, having been requested repeatedly by existing and potential clients. Chemistree is an exciting new company, focusing its efforts on social media, branding, licensing and marketing technology. In addition to marketing events, brands and any other activities in the cannabis industry, the company will continue to identify other avenues for growth for social media marketing services, as well as brand marketing, product marketing, and more general services like financing and corporate consulting. The Company believes the cannabis industry offers a tremendous opportunity for growth. The reason for this is simply that marketing of cannabis companies, their products as well as information about the industry itself is in its infancy. Initially, the Pacific Northwest is the Company's main target geography, but this is expected to expand from British Columbia and Washington into Oregon, and eventually California. For more information, please contact Paul Searle at (778) 240-7724 or by email at [email protected] Karl Kottmeier President Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] BooleBox Educational: The Cloud Based Solution for the Educational Environment MILAN, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Boole Server, the leading Enterprise Collaboration Solutions Vendor, is delighted to present BooleBox Educational, the first Cloud based solution purposely designed to meet the needs of collaboration, information sharing and data protection of High schools, Colleges and Universities. BooleBox Educational is an immediately accessible cloud solution that combines security and ease of use for information sharing across the three main areas of collaboration: E-mail, File sharing, and Messaging. Users benefit from military grade (AES 256) encryption storage in Amazon's world class data center and separation of content and controls. A best-practices approach to sharing and securing information with no infrastructure costs. BooleBox distinguishes itself for its total security and reliability. It has Personal Key protection for both all content, multiple authentication options and user definable document and e-mail controls including expiration, confirmation of opening, deny download, dynamic watermark, anti-screen-capture and deter photo shot capabilities. Thanks to the integration with Office 365, students and administrators can create and manage online contents in one protected environment and collaborate with anyone they need to. Administrators, students and external collaborators can also communicate securely with BooeBox Secure Mail and BooleBox Secure Chat. These provide real-time email and messaging always protected within the BooleBox safe environment. BooleBox Educational improves effective collaboration and workflow while ensuring that users meet the security and control obligations of their institution and any government agency requirements up-to and including US NSA top secret encryption levels. Customers can easily define, control and audit who can access any specific content or category of content. Two factor authentications, directory integration and highly granular controls are just some examples of the flexible control that BooleBox enables. BooleBox Classification gives the possibility to set a taxonomy of educational institutions information and create a structured governance strategy that is appropriate for administrators, students or other authorized users. All content is automatically protected and made accessible in a selective manner, respecting the institution security policies. For a perfect auditing analysis, BooleBox Educational has a very detailed and efficient way of filtering and exporting logs. This creates an environment where data leaks, misappropriation of files and unauthorized actions are prevented. With 1TB of Amazon EC2 S3 storage space available per user BooleBox is providing faculty, students and admini39strators with a generous amount of storage that at a market leading cost per student. Pricing is uniquely attractive, offering a sliding scale of charges to suit needs of High school, College or University. Boole Server is global provider of Enterprise Collaboration Solutions.. Boole Server products are now used by over 180 customers in 25 countries. Customers include Riyad Bank, State of Jersey Police, Giorgio Armani and Ferrero and more than 100,000 worldwide users. Media Contact: Martina Casiraghi Phone: +39 02 87383213 Email: [email protected] Related Links BooleBox View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/boolebox-educational-the-cloud-based-solution-for-the-educational-environment-300538118.html SOURCE Boole Server [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Touchstream Debuts StreamCAM for Live OTT Stream Content Availability Monitoring at NAB Show NY NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Touchstream, the leading provider of video streaming content availability monitoring, today announces StreamCAM, Stream Content Availability Monitor, its comprehensive cloud-based service for live linear OTT streams. OTT subscribers today have little patience for a poor Quality of Experience (QoE). In fact, according to SNL Kagan, 10% of viewers will abandon an OTT service because of a poor streaming experience which can represent a significant amount of lost revenue. What's at the heart of a poor QoE? In most cases it's the availability or performance of a stream. In an adaptive bitrate (ABR) model, viewers are moved up and down bitrates depending upon available bandwidth and other factors. But what happens when there's an issue with a specific stream in a multi-bitrate package? The viewers will experience buffering, failures or other problems when their player shifts to that bitrate. In order to provide the highest-level of QoE, service providers must ensure every bitrate in their streams is available and working at peak performance. And although many OTT providers employ player-side analytics to capture QoE issues, these solutions can only report on problems after the viewer has experienced one. StreamCAM solves the challenge of ensuring stream availability by monitoring each bitrate 24/7/365 and provding OTT service providers a proactive approach to mitigating QoE issues. Scalable and cloud-based, StreamCAM can send alerts to operations personnel the instant an anomaly is detected, even when the stream isn't being viewed. Provisioning can happen in just a few minutes, with nothing for the service provider to install or maintain. "OTT providers need to be proactive in how they address content availability," says Brenton Ough, CEO and Co-Founder. "They can't wait until there are problems. By that time, it's too late. Subscribers have churned. Viewers have abandoned. StreamCAM provides them the ability to monitor all of their bitrates and solve problems before users even access the content." StreamCAM also now features traceroute. This new feature, available through the StreamCAM dashboard or data API, provides detailed information on the route a stream takes to end users and can help identify sub-optimal routing that is negatively impacting latency as well as the responsible party. Touchstream's StreamCAM platform will be on display at NAB Show NY, booth N1167. To schedule a meeting with a Touchstream representative, visit https://touchstream.media/event/nab-ny-show/ About Touchstream International Pty Ltd Touchstream's 24x7 Proactive Live Stream Monitoring Platform is used by the world's leading media companies and service providers to gain critical insights into their stream availability and stream performance to proactively identify and quickly resolve video streaming failures before they impact the viewer's experience. Touchstream was recently recognized by CIO Review as one the 20 Most Promising Companies. Touchstream is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, with offices in Barcelona, Spain and New York, U.S.A. To learn more, visit www.touchstream.media. CONTACT Amelia Ward [email protected] +34 697 879 038 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/touchstream-debuts-streamcam-for-live-ott-stream-content-availability-monitoring-at-nab-show-ny-300538165.html SOURCE Touchstream International Pty Ltd [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] AtNetPlus Named 2017 Customer Service Awards Honoree STOW, Ohio, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AtNetPlus, Inc., a leader in information technology, IT security, cloud, and web solutions, announces they are an honoree of the Power Players of Cleveland 2017 Customer Service Award. The Customer Service Award recognizes companies, who have demonstrated superior customer service and raise awareness of the importance of customer service in the business world. Companies must be located in the 14-county region of Northeast Ohio. This year, 24 companies will be recognized as honorees at the 2017 Customer Service Awards Luncheon on November 2, 2017, at the Silver Grille at the Higbee Building. AtNetPlus strives to provide superior customer service to all of our customers. Jay Mellon, CEOof AtNetPlus stated, Being honored with this award for the second year in a row is truly a testament to our employees and their commitment to top-notch customer service. As leaders of the company, Jim Laber and I try to exemplify the importance of customer service, and its great to see everyone share in our vision. Our Director of Client Solutions, Greg Cusick said it best by stating, Our entire organization is committed to providing excellent customer service. From Accounting to Marketing to our Technical and Sales teams, we strive to provide our customers with the best experience possible. It's so important to us that it's an integral component of our company's core values. As a service-based organization, we understand the importance of listening to our customers and exceeding expectations. About AtNetPlus, Inc. AtNetPlus helps small and medium businesses take control of their technology. We work with clients to provide fully managed IT services, web development, online backups, managed security, VoIP phone systems, and hosting solutions for their business. We offer peace of mind through 24 x 7 network and website monitoring; keeping businesses connected, secure, and working - all at a predictable cost. For more information, visit www.AtNetPlus.com. CONTACT INFORMATION Anna Richards Marketing Manager AtNetPlus, Inc. Phone: 330-945-5685 Fax: 330-945-5684 [email protected] http://www.AtNetPlus.com [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [October 17, 2017] Virtual Accounting Firm 1-800Accountant Expands from the Big Apple to the Sunshine State, Opening an Office in Sunny St. Petersburg, Florida NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- With the goal of continuing to attract top talent as they scale to create the nation's leading virtual accounting firm, 1-800Accountant is pleased to announce the opening of their newest brick-and-mortar office located in the Carillon Park development, home to several Fortune 500 firms. The large and airy space will eventually grow to accommodate 200 employees in comfortable surroundings. "1-800Accountant is one of those unique companies that is leveraging great technology but has never wavered in our belief that accounting is a unique profession and one that is very personal. It therefore requires a human component. That is why the key differentiator in all our products is that they come with an accountant," said Brendon Pack, Chief Revenue Officer. The St. Petersburg/Tampa metro area is quickly growing and boasts a strong economic base of knowledgeable workers. Rated as one of the "Best Places to Live in America" by U.S. News & World Report, the area is home to more than 3 million people. All of this adds up to an ideal place t live and play for top-notch professionals the very people who make 1-800Accountant a great place to work. "Most accounting firms haven't changed. They are still using old technology. They haven't adapted to the changing world. We are redefining what has traditionally been a fragmented industry. 1-800Accountant is on the leading edge of ushering in this paradigm shift for the accounting and tax industry," said Pack. The ability to serve clients virtually greatly reduces the cost of accounting services, making high-quality accountants readily available at affordable rates for anyone with internet access. St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and 1-800Accountant CEO Michael Savage, along with new employees, attended a kickoff event on October 12, 2017 to celebrate the new office opening. The office has been open since late August and is already assisting small-business owners and entrepreneurs with all their tax and accounting needs. About 1-800Accountant With offices in New York and Florida, 1-800Accountant is a nationwide virtual accounting firm that combines the convenience of technology with proactive, year-round support from a team of experienced accounting professionals. 1-800Accountant is reimagining the way small-businesses handle what for many is among their most important and sensitive business activities. Their service seamlessly combines the speed and convenience of mobile and desktop technology with real-life support from a team of accountants, certified public accountants, enrolled agents, and bookkeepers. No matter your industry, you can rest easy knowing that you'll be provided industry-specific, year-round assistance while they handle all the heavy lifting - tax advisory and tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, audit support, and more. With experts in all 50 states and every industry, the team at 1-800Accountant has unparalleled experience with year-round, mobile-friendly accounting assistance. To learn more, please visit: https://1800accountant.com. CONTACT: Brendon Pack PH: 646-780-1860 Email: [email protected] View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/virtual-accounting-firm-1-800accountant-expands-from-the-big-apple-to-the-sunshine-state-opening-an-office-in-sunny-st-petersburg-florida-300538233.html SOURCE 1-800Accountant [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Nvidias GeForce GTX 1080 Ti is, for all intents and purposes, the companys fastest desktop gaming graphics card - Titan Xp, the company's only faster (niche) card, costs ~60% more. The 1080 Ti employs a 12-billion-transistor GP102 processor sporting 3584 CUDA cores, 224 texture units, and 88 ROPs. A base clock rate of 1480 MHz typically accelerates to 1582 MHz under most gaming loads thanks to GPU Boost. And Nvidias partners tune those frequencies to differentiate their boards. An aggregate 352-bit memory bus hosts 11GB of GDDR5X memory able to move up to 484 GB/s of information. In comparison, the vanilla GeForce GTX 1080 utilizes a much less complex GP104 GPU armed with 2560 CUDA cores, 160 texture units, and 64 ROPs. Its 8GB of GDDR5 memory is still high-end by todays standards. However, youre looking at the difference between smooth performance at 3840x2160 from GeForce GTX 1080 Ti and a card better suited to 1440p at maxed-out details in the vanilla 1080. Youll pay about $200 more for the GeForce GTX 1080 Ti, but in a world now unfriendly to multi-GPU configurations, we recommend buying the fastest single-GPU solution you can afford. How about the competition from AMD? Performance-wise, there is none. Radeon RX Vega 64 is more comparable to GeForce GTX 1080. At least for now, GeForce GTX 1080 Ti is in a class unto itself. So, if youre looking for the best graphics performance available, lets explore some of the available options and why you might consider one GTX 1080 Ti over another. MORE: Best Deals Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Graphics Cards Why you can trust Tom's Hardware Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test. 10/23/2017 Update: added the MSI GTX 1080 Ti Lightning Z (no award). (opens in new tab) Asus ROG Strix GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB OC Edition $935 (opens in new tab) at Amazon (opens in new tab) EVGA GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 Gaming $935 (opens in new tab) at Newegg (opens in new tab) Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Aorus GTX 1080 Ti Xtreme Edition 11G Check Amazon (opens in new tab) MORE: Best Graphics Cards MORE: All Graphics Content Available GeForce GTX 1080 Ti cards span a ~$150 range. So why would you consider spending extra when the least-expensive models are already brutally fast? The reasons are loosely interrelated: clock rates, cooling, advanced features, and aesthetics. You see, Nvidias reference specification calls for a base GPU frequency of 1480 MHz. But GP102 can run faster. So add-in board partners experiment with more aggressive settings. A 5% or 6% increase means higher frame rates. And when youre already looking at top-of-the-line, extra performance isnt cheap. Overclocked GPUs generate more heat, creating stability and reliability issues. As a result, the pursuit of performance goes hand-in-hand with upgraded cooling. Some manufacturers turn to triple-slot heat sinks and fans, while others integrated liquid cooling. Along the way, they strive for improved acoustics using larger, slower-spinning fans or beefy radiators. All of the surface area introduced by these substantial thermal solutions becomes an ideal canvas for decoration. Enter the elaborate fan shrouds, the configurable RGB lighting, and the LCD read-outs. In the end, youre left to decide whether Nvidias reference specs are good enough, or if youre willing to pay for a bit more guaranteed performance, the cooling to keep an overclocked config stable, and maybe a little eye candy. Our reviews dig deep into the strengths and weaknesses of each individual implementation, allowing you to choose the attributes that matter most in a GeForce GTX 1080 Ti. The final analysis of each board is listed below for quick and easy reference (top-awarded cards appear first, and graphics cards with the same award are listed alphabetically): Asus ROG Strix GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 11GB OC Edition Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Visit Site (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Moderate power target + Relatively light weight + Hardly any coil whine + External fan connectors + RGB output for LEDs Reasons to avoid - More expensive than competing GeForce GTX 1080 Tis - Oscillating fan noise - VRM cooling not optimal (opens in new tab) MORE: Desktop GPU Performance Hierarchy Table MORE: The History Of Nvidia GPUs MORE: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 Roundup EVGA GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 Gaming Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Dual-slot form factor + Well-implemented (asynchronous) cooling and acoustics + Unique nine-sensor temperature monitoring Reasons to avoid - Much more expensive than Nvidia's Founders Edition version - Triple-slot competition is generally faster/quieter (opens in new tab) MORE: Best PC Builds MORE: Best Cases Aorus GTX 1080 Ti Xtreme Edition 11G Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Faster than Founders Edition + Quiet + Exceptional cooling concept + Theoretical 375W power limit Reasons to avoid - $50 more than Founders Edition - Bundled software not great for overclocking (opens in new tab) MORE: Best CPU Cooling MORE: Best CPUs (opens in new tab) MORE: Best Gaming Desktops MORE: Best Gaming Laptops Asus GTX 1080 Ti ROG Poseidon Platinum Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Aggressive factory overclock + Flexible cooler + Minimal whine from chokes + External fan connectors + RGB lighting Reasons to avoid - Restricted liquid flow - Relatively expensive card - Low-frequency bearing noise - Heat pipe quality could be better (opens in new tab) MORE: Best Memory MORE: Best Gaming Monitors MSI GTX 1080 Ti Lightning Z Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Visit Site (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + High factory GPU Boost frequency + Very good thermal solution + Quiet fans + Hardly any coil whine + Lots of RGB effects to choose from + External sensors Reasons to avoid - Power consumption - Near non-existent availability - Inaccessible pricing - Very heavy - High starting fan pulse - High power consumption (opens in new tab) MORE: Best Motherboards MORE: Best Power Supplies Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Founder's Edition Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Fastest graphics card available + Attractive price versus Titan X + Centrifugal fan exhausts waste heat Reasons to avoid - Temperature-limited - Not as quiet as some board partner designs (opens in new tab) MORE: Best SSDs MORE: Best Virtual Reality Headsets Zotac GTX 1080 Ti AMP! Extreme Edition Today's Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Factory-overclocked GPU and memory + Massive heat sink and coolers + Excellent build quality + One of the lower-priced 1080 Tis Reasons to avoid - Insufficient cooling on VRMs - Louder than competing GeForce GTX 1080 Tis - VRM noise (opens in new tab) The Madison City Council is considering four finalists with a wealth of government experience for its first-ever chief of staff position. The finalists are: Jim Bohl, a Milwaukee City Council member; Melanie Conklin, communications director for the Democratic Party of Wisconsin; Astra Iheukumere, assistant director for Community Networks and National Partnership with the UW-Madison Population Health Institute; and Kwasi Obeng, chief performance analyst with the Chicago Office of Inspector General. The four finalists embody a thorough knowledge, skill set and passion for public service and demonstrate the ability to engage with policymakers, staff and community members, council President Marsha Rummel said in a statement. The council created the position in the 2017 budget with a salary range of $96,252 to $129,939. In June, Mayor Paul Soglin vetoed the position, voicing concerns of a rising council budget and desire to first evaluate the structure of city government, but the council overrode the veto. A total 92 people applied for the position. The councils Executive Committee is slated to interview the finalists on Nov. 3. The council will make the final decision. The candidates bring varied experience. Bohl, one of 15 Milwaukee City Council members, also is a commissioner on the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District. He has worked as a teacher in the Milwaukee schools and as an aide to then-U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett. He has masters and bachelors degrees in history from Marquette University. Conklin has worked as an aide to U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan and former Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, a managing director for the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce and held communications posts for Dane County Executive Joe Parisi, the Assembly Democratic Campaign Committee, state Rep. Peter Barca and Barretts gubernatorial campaign. She also was a reporter for Isthmus and the Wisconsin State Journal. She has a masters in communication and journalism from UW-Madison and a bachelors in political science and Hispanic studies from St. Olaf College. Iheukumere has worked as an aide to Soglin, outreach coordinator for the Wisconsin Department of Revenue, and a Medicaid benefit and fiscal policy analyst for the state Department of Health Services. She has masters degrees in business administration and public administration and public policy, and a bachelors in political science, all from UW-Madison. Obeng has worked as a senior performance auditor for the Atlanta Auditors Office and a social services administrator for the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services. He has a doctorate in political science from Clark Atlanta University, a masters in psychology from Argosy/Georgia School for Professional Psychology, and a bachelors in human and organizational development and psychology from Vanderbilt University. AP Images SOURCE: AP Images Missouri U.S. Senators Roy Blunt and Claire McCaskill have teamed in support of applications by the Kansas City, Missouri and St. Louis regions for the new Amazon corporate headquarters. "We write today in strong support of Missouri ... Want to Make Some Extra Money? Are you looking for a part time job that doesn't have you glued to a computer screen or operating a fryer? Powerful Performance Solutions is looking for paid full and part time field canvassers to join the A Better KCI team to help persuade voters to support the building of a new, 21st century airport terminal. Pay is $12 an hour and employees are paid weekly. ######## This tidbit reminds us to be suspicious about the airport promising more jobs and benefits to local labor. Behind the scenes, every political effort connected with City Hall has been encouraged to pay entry level employees at least $15-an-hour to support the "fair wage" stance of the Mayor & City Council.Sadly, even amid heavy funding from a slate of local corporations . . . The "Better KCI" campaign isn't paying a living wage.Here's proof from an advert in the latest Democratic Party mailer:To be fair, $12 isn't bad for bothering people about something they don't want.However . . .You decide . . . They will have a private meeting followed by a working lunch Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras will meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House, on Tuesday, at 19.00. They will have a private meeting followed by a working lunch. At 20:30 there will be joint statements by the prime minister and the US President to reporters. Among the issues to be discussed are: - economy with emphasis on Greece's efforts to exit the crisis and gain access to markets - security as Greece is playing a critical role in the wider region - regional developments - energy The prime minister's agenda also includes a meeting with US senators at 22.30 as well as a meeting with businessmen at 02.30 on Wednesday. Read more here. RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Michael Vadon License: CC-BY-SA Source: ANA-MPA Alexis Tsipras became the first Greek Prime Minister to visit the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago on October 15th. The Greek PM, during his official U.S. visit, is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump in the White House on Tuesday. In his speech, the Greek Prime Minister paid tribute to the Greek Diaspora and thanked the about two-hundred guests that gathered to meet him and his long time partner, Peristera Baziana. Prior to joining the reception, Prime Minister Tsipras, NHM President Laura Calamos, Ph.D., NHM Board of Trustees Chairman John P Calamos, Sr., and NHM Trustees, conducted an impromptu extensive tour of the Museum. The National Hellenic Museum celebrates the cultural contribution of Greeks and Greek-Americans to the United States while showcasing Greeces rich cultural heritage, both in ancient and modern times . Previously known as the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center, the National Hellenic Museum is located in Chicagos Greektown, at the corner of Halsted and Van Buren Streets. It moved to the current location in December 2011, in a 40,000-square-foot building designed by architect Demetrios Stavrianos. Its exhibits span Greeces history from 1200 BC through today and there are objects and artifacts from each period of Greek history. The museum currently hosts the exhibitions Reaching for the American Dream: The Greek Story in America, Conversations on Community Spaces and Aegean: Creation of an Archipelago. In March, the NHM brought renowned judges and attorneys, cross-examined experts, in order to decide whether the Parthenon marbles should be returned to Greece or not. In front of an audience of 800 who also voted. It was decided that the priceless sculptures should return to Greece. The jury ruled 8-4 for the Marbles return to Acropolis where they belong, and so did the people who voted. Only one of the five judges cast a dissenting vote, arguing that the sculptures created by the ancient Greeks belong to the world and should remain at the British Museum where they have resided for 200 years. Another annual event hosted at the museum is Kouzina. Running for nine years now, the event aims at connecting new generations of the Greater Chicago Area with Greek culture, food and Greek-American history. It offers special dishes as well as classic recipes and a wonderful wine selection. The National Hellenic Museum also offers Greek language and culture classes with the use of arts and crafts, music, dance, theatre, poetry, and storytime to familiarize students with Greek traditions and culture. Students are grouped in age groups from 3 years to adult. School programs are also offered, using Museum exhibitions and collections as a pillar for learning. Read more here. RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Greek Museum License: CC-BY-SA Source: greekreporter.com The Jewish community of Greece was one of the largest ancient communities in the globe The Sydney Jewish Museum in Sydney Australia, is holding a new temporary exhibition, titled The Jews of Greece, which sheds light on the little known-history of one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world. Developed by filmmaker Carol Gordon and photographer Emmanuel Santos, through photography and documentary, this exhibition brings to life the story of Greeces once vibrant 2,500 year old Jewish community and exhibits the history, tradition and present-day existence of the Jews of Greece. The Jewish community of Greece was one of the largest ancient communities in the globe. It was nearly wiped out during the Holocaust, which saw 87% of the Jewish population murdered. The Jews of Greece exhibition provides an insight into the life of Romaniote Jews, Sephardim (Jews of Spain) and the smaller groups of Ashkenazi Jews of Europe that constitute the Greek-Jewish community. This community witnessed and experienced the start of Christianity, the rise and fall of Empires and the creation of the Modern State. The exhibition also goes over the story of Greece in the Second World War and during the Holocaust, telling the story of nearly 13,000 Jewish Greeks who served in the Greek army during the war and in the Greek resistance to the Nazi occupation. The Jews of Greece exhibition celebrates this ancient community, who despite facing almost total decimation during the Holocaust, have continued to survive. The exhibition will be officially inaugurated by the Consul General of Greece in Sydney Dr Stavros Kyrimis and will run from 25 October 2017 18 February 2018 at the Sydney Jewish Museum, 148 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst. Recommended Adult Visiting Hours: Monday to Thursday 1pm-4pm. Friday 11am-2pm. Closed Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Sunday 10am 4pm. For further exhibition and museum information visit: www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au Read more here. RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Beau Giles License: CC-BY-SA Source: greekcitytimes.com Greek Tourism Confederation's (SETE) ambitious strategy for a holistic sustainable tourism development that will substantially interlink the industry with other sectors, such as agri-food and culture, was developed by Association President Yiannis Retsos, who addressed the 16th SETE Conference today. "Every region of our country has a wealth of local agri-food products as well as cultural heritage, customs and traditions. It is our priority not only to preserve them, but also to interconnect and highlight them through tourism", Mr. Retsos stressed and added: "We must be present in all the destinations of our country, both the established and the less developed, with constant offers and interaction." He also unveiled that SETE leadership has already conducted informative tours to various destinations across the country such as Alexandroupolis, Thessaloniki, Volos, Patras, Santorini, Corfu and Crete. "We want to hear the voice and the anxieties of all the people who make up the long chain of tourism," Retsos said and continued: "Let us record the needs and try together to find solutions to the issues that arise. Thus, we will be able to maximize the contribution of tourism and expand its benefits. During next week, we will be visiting Rhodes while other meetings will also follow in Ioannina, Lamia and Tripoli. Our aim is to be at the core of Greek tourism. Right alongside the small or big professional, next to the Greek producer. Close to the local communities. To record the issues that must be resolved immediatelly and shape the agenda of the debate right where the heart of Greek tourism beats." RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report The upcoming fourth Global Business Forum on Africa in Dubai, UAE is set to welcome five African heads of state, 12 ministers, and more than 1,000 top-level government and corporate decision-makers and industry experts. The forum, organised by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will be held under the theme Next Generation Africa on November 1 and 2. The event will examine the current economic outlook for the continent, and explore prospects for its development, as well as investment opportunities and the potential for forging partnerships between African businesses and their UAE counterparts. The event will bring together high-profile attendees such as Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda; Danny Faure, President of the Republic of Seychelles; Yoweri Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda; Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, President of the Republic of Mauritius; and Edgar Lungu, President of Zambia; along with a long list of ministers, senior government officials, young African entrepreneurs, economic and industry experts. Hamad Buamim, president and CEO of the Dubai Chamber, noted that the timing of the forum is ideal as Africa is currently witnessing a sizeable uptick in private-sector led development and investment opportunities. This years Global Business Forum on Africa is drawing an unprecedented top-tier attendance, including distinguished African heads of state and ministers, to discuss a variety of key trends that are expected to drive Africas next phase of economic growth, as well as challenges and opportunities that fast-growing markets on the continent are experiencing, Buamim said. The two-day event welcomes a host of ministers from various African countries, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Ghana, Malawi, Mali, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, Uganda and Zambia.- TradeArabia News Service Gulf Bank, a leading bank in Kuwait, has recorded a net profit of KD36.1 million ($119.3 million) in the first nine months of 2017, an increase of 10 per cent over the same period in 2016. The bank was able to generate net interest income of KD97.2 million and operating profit of KD89.7 million during the first nine months of 2017, recording double digit growth of 10 per cent and 11 per cent, respectively, over the prior year period. Meanwhile, expenses remained flat for the first nine months compared to the same period in 2016. Over the first nine months of 2017, total assets of the bank grew by 3.5 per cent while Loans and Advances to customers increased by 3.3 per cent. Total equity reported at the end of September 2017 was KD591.2 million and general provisions stood at KD225 million, representing 38 per cent of total equity. Omar Kutayba Alghanim, Gulf Bank chairman, said: We are pleased with our banks solid performance in the first nine months of 2017. This has reflected positively on earnings per share as it grew by 10 per cent to 12 fils per share for the first nine months of 2017 compared to the previous year. Credit ratings Gulf Bank continues to enjoy favourable ratings from the top international credit rating agencies. In October, Fitch Ratings upgraded Gulf Banks Viability Rating to 'bb+' from 'bb' and affirmed the banks Long-Term Issuer Default Rating at 'A+' with a Stable Outlook. In addition, S&P Global Ratings revised their outlook on the bank to Positive from Stable and affirmed its issuer credit rating at A-in June 2017. Similarly, Moodys Investors Service affirmed the banks A3 long-term deposits rating and Stable outlook in May 2017. Furthermore, Capital Intelligence affirmed the banks Financial Strength Rating at BBB+ and the subordinated bond rating at BBB both with Stable outlooks in May 2017. Gulf Bank continues to be strongly recognized both internationally and locally. During Q3 2017, the bank received the 'Best Retail Bank in Kuwait award and Best Mobile Banking Application in Kuwait, both by International Finance Magazine. In regard to the FTSE classification of Boursa Kuwait as a secondary emerging market, Al Ghanim said: I would like to congratulate Kuwait on this achievement. It will have a positive impact on Boursa Kuwait attractiveness to investors targeting emerging markets. This will ultimately enhance the liquidity and the flow of investment funds to the Kuwaiti market. Our congratulations go to everyone who contributed to this achievement including the Capital Market Authority, Boursa Kuwait and Kuwait Clearing Company, Al Ghanim added. TradeArabia News Service The Dubai Diamond Exchange (DDE), a Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) platform, yesterday (October 16) opened the third edition of its biennial two-day Dubai Diamond Conference 2017 in Dubai, UAE. The event which is being held under the theme Shaping the future of an interconnected marketplace, will conclude later today (October 17). The conference, known for identifying the main issues impacting the global industry, is dealing with a rich agenda of subjects critical to the future of the diamond business worldwide and opened to its biggest-ever audience. Abdullah Al Saleh, UAE Ministry of Economy, undersecretary of Foreign Trade and Industry, UAE, and DMCCs executive chairman, Ahmed Bin Sulayem inaugurated the conference, welcoming top-level speakers and panellists from every sector of the diamond pipeline and from across the world, saying they would provide insights based on long experience about the deep-seated changes affecting the business. Al Saleh said: It is really excellent to see that so many world-class experts have travelled from all over the world to attend the conference. Dubai believes in the diamond industrys potential to grow and we are committed to doing everything we can to support the industry. Meanwhile, Bin Sulayem spoke about the critical role the conference has developed in taking stock of developments in the industry and providing pointers for how it should tackle challenges as it moves forward. He added: Diamonds have long played an illustrious role in Dubai's heritage as a gateway for global trade. And, in just 15 short years, Dubai has become the third biggest diamond trading centre in the world. It didnt happen by accident. It happened because we designed an environment that is safe, business friendly, and that conveniently links producing and consuming markets, Bin Sulayem said. Bin Sulayem set the agenda on the importance of connecting with and understanding millennials as recent research found that 37 per cent of millennials claim to distrust big business and brands. He said: Its a different world. And it goes beyond just advertising and marketing. What do we as an industry have to change to better appeal to this demographic? Thats why I find that one of todays panels, How diamonds fit in the new era of Millennials, will be especially important. Sir Mark Moody-Stuart, chairman, Global Compact Foundations keynote speech focussed on the United Nations Global Compact initiative and how the diamond industry can implement its Sustainable Development Goals to build a more just, more equitable and more sustainable future for all. He was followed by Peter Meeus, chairman, Dubai Diamond Exchange; the Hon Mosebenzi Joseph Zwane, Minister of Mineral Resources, Republic of South Africa; Paul Rowley, executive vice-president Global Sightholder Sales; De Beers Group, Robert Owen-Jones; Kimberley Process chair 2017; Ernest Blom, president, World Federation of Diamond Bourses; and Stephane Fischler, acting president, World Diamond Council. The first day of the conference tackled two major industry issues: Uniting the industry to accelerate initiatives driving the sustainable development agenda forward, and How diamonds fit in the new era of millennials, said a statement. The first panel discussion on sustainability featured 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 Praveen Shankar Pandya; and Signet Jewelers Ltd. vice-president, corporate affairs, David Bouffard. Blom gave the diamond industry's perspective on responsible mining, manufacturing and sourcing of goods. He said: Sustainability is critical for the protection of our planet, and from a consumer point of view, it has become the 'new normal'. Consumers especially the younger generation are demanding this and we must show that it is a vital part of our agenda. The conference, that is taking place in Dubai's Almas Tower which houses the Dubai Diamond Exchange, is bringing together international leaders of the diamond industry ranging from African Ministers to traders, financiers and world-renowned jewellers including: Dr Obolokile Obakeng, acting permanent secretary, Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, Republic of Botswana; Leopold Mboli Fatran, Minister of Mines and Geology, Central African Republic; Keketso Sello, Minister of Mining, Kingdom of Lesotho; Hon Joseph Zwane, Minister of the Department of Mineral Resources, Republic of South Africa; Walter K Chidhakwa, Minister of Mines and Mining Development of the Republic of Zimbabwe; Emmanuel Kamarianakis; consulate general of Canada; Paul Fox, British Consul General to Dubai; Dominique Mineur, Ambassador of Belgium to UAE; Vipul Consul General of India to Dubai and N. Emirates; and Paul Ramsey Malik, US Consul General to Dubai. Panel discussions at Day 2 of the event will include the following topics: Lab-grown diamonds and their disclosure: Is there a problem; Bankability, transparency, innovation; branding; KP Reform: A reality or a never ending story?; The impact of value added tax (VAT) or GST on wholesale diamond trading; and Tenders and auctions: Temporary phenomenon or new business model of the future?, it stated. TradeArabia News Service Watch a video on the event here. Netherlands-based Jumbo and Germanys BBC Chartering, a leading project chartering network, have agreed to an exclusive strategic co-operation called the Global Project Alliance. Jumbo is a global market leader in providing innovative, safe and viable heavy lift transportation solutions for a wide range of industries. This unique co-operation between two family-owned companies brings together established and reputed heavy-lift expertise and massive fleet capacity, said a statement. The alliance is a mutually-shared aspiration to provide comprehensive solutions to customers on a global scale. By joining forces this alliance offers unrivalled project logistics solutions to EPCs and project companies, it said. The objective is to improve the worldwide service which is offered by both brands while leveraging their respective complementary strengths and assets. By drawing on the joint capabilities of both companies, the alliance can provide a best for project solution by optimising volume and super heavy lift cargoes for the project, it added. Both parties are committed to providing the resources to explore all possibilities (if necessary supplementing their own fleets with unique additional Ro-Ro tonnage), to increase the value they can deliver to customers, including but not limited to, pre-and on-carriage, documentation and container consolidation when demanded by the project, said a statement. To start-off, the partners will focus on offering their combined solutions by jointly bidding on specific projects providing customers the fleet and services on a best for project basis. Whilst both partners have agreed to an exclusive co-operation they will continue to operate as separate entities, it said. Svend Andersen, CEO of BBC Chartering, said: Jumbo and our company make a great match, which one can truly call the biggest and the best. We look forward to forge this alliance and intensify our collaboration on commercial, operational and strategic levels, he said. We realise that the world of project shipping is changing rapidly, and that our organisations need to focus on building strategic assets that will enable them to create value in the future, he added. Twan Voogt, CCO of Jumbo, said: Both of our companies are family owned, financially strong, and follow a long term strategy in the project shipping sector. As alliance partners we seek to fully utilise our potential arising from BBC Charterings market position as leader in the volume market for projects and from Jumbos market position as leader in super heavy lift projects, he addee. TradeArabia News Service A proposed 12-story apartment building on the edge of the UW-Madison campus has drawn opposition from the university. Stopple Revocable Trust, the developer, is planning to construct a 43-unit, 96-bedroom building intended for university students near the corner of West Johnson and North Charter streets. But at a city Plan Commission meeting Monday, a university official said the administration is against the project as it is interested in the property. Gary Brown, UW-Madisons director of campus planning, said the university has identified the site for potential expansion in facilities plans for the College of Letters and Science and library system. The site was always meant to be for a university facility, Brown said. A five-bedroom house at 222 N. Charter St. would be demolished for the project. The house is at the southeast corner of a triangular property bounded by West Johnson Street, North Charter Street and railroad tracks. The entire area, except for the five-bedroom house, is owned by the university. Were very concerned about this single development preventing us from doing future development on the site, Brown said. But Ald. Steve King said the commission shouldnt hold the property hostage to sort of a future plan by the university. There are separate concerns from city staff that the project doesnt adhere to the Regent Street-South Campus Neighborhood Plan. The building wouldnt conform to setback limits in the plan, but it would provide high-density housing near campus, another component called for in the neighborhood plan, said Alan Fish, a consultant for the developer and former UW-Madison administrator. Given the site is only 5,800 square feet, it is not feasible to push the building back farther from the property line, he said. Fish said the proposal fits the large view on how the plan intends to guide development. Commission members were largely concerned that the project lacked enough parking for mopeds. The plans call for 15 moped spots, 87 bicycle spots and no vehicular parking.The project was only before the Plan Commission as an informational presentation at the request of another city commission due to the conflicts with the neighborhood plan. Ken Opin, chairman of the Plan Commission, noted it was a rare situation for the body to be given such a presentation. Commission members will make a decision on the project at a future meeting. The second operational site of the UAE Food Bank was launched on Monday at Al Bada area near Canadian University under the patronage of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation. The UAE Food Bank also signed cooperation agreements with three other charity organisations and 13 foodstuff companies during the occasion, reported Wam, the Emirates official news agency. "The UAE Food Bank is one of the most important values of giving by the people of the UAE and is moving forward to be one of the largest humanitarian establishments in the country, in a way that translates the objectives of the UAE leadership to spread the virtue of charity and establish a culture of giving within the framework of great official organisational and people participation," said Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, chairperson of the Board of Trustees of UAE Food Bank and wife of the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in a statement issued on the occasion. Hussain Nasser Lootah, director General of Dubai Municipality and deputy chairman of the Board of Trustees of UAE Food Bank said, "The UAE Food Bank, which falls under the umbrella of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Foundation, draws special significance as an initiative that has local and regional dimensions, and global human values. "It is also a social responsibility and promotes volunteerism by encouraging institutions and people to engage in the Bank's activities to collect excess food from the concerned organisations and distribute it to the needy and the deserving," Lootah said. "The UAE Food Bank is an integrated humanitarian system to establish the value of feeding. It includes hotels, food factories, farms, hospitality establishments, supermarkets and a huge number of volunteers. It deals professionally with surplus fresh and canned food under the supervision of the concerned authorities and distributes it inside and outside the country in cooperation with a network of local and international humanitarian and charity organisations. The Bank is partnering with major hotel chains, supermarkets, food factories and farms and will open its doors to volunteers to contribute to the distribution of food inside and outside the country," added Lootah. He said that the ultimate goal is to put this great value within a sustainable framework, as feeding the food is among the distinguished qualities and the values of the people of the UAE, and the legacy of Sheikh Zayed. "Today, we strive through this new establishment, to involve the largest number of community organisations and volunteers in a new system for charity and giving following the footsteps of our forefathers," Lootah pointed out. "We seek through the UAE Food Bank to consolidate this aspect in our new generations by providing the opportunity for all to be part of the permanent charitable and humanitarian movement that will take UAE to reach to new levels as Zayed wanted and endeavoured to cultivate among his people," he said. The second operational location of UAE Food Bank will be an indicator of the performance of the Bank as a whole," said Lootah, adding that the work will be closely monitored and the operational mechanism evaluated and reviewed to provide a benchmark for future establishment of new locations throughout the UAE in the first launch phase and then the launch of branches and sites in other countries according to the future plan. He pointed out that the inauguration of the first operational site of UAE Food Bank was preceded by a pilot launch, during which all the technological, technical and logistical aspects were monitored and followed-up of the collection and distribution operations according to the specified timetables and according to the specified frameworks to ensure the compatibility of operations and general performance according to plan. The total quantity of food items received by UAE Food Bank reached 136 tonnes, while the maximum quantity of food received daily was 10,245 kg, the lowest was 30 kg, and the average was 680 kg. During the period from April to September 2017, the highest amount of food received was in September (52,335 kg), while June witnessed the lowest amount of 4,845 kg of food. The amount of food distributed through charities since the start of the bank was about 135,795 kg, of which 68,175 kg was through Tarahim Association, 53,415 kg through Al Ihsan charity Association, 8,625 kg through Dar Al Ber Society, 2,850 kg through Bait Al Khair, and 2,730 kg through Dubai Charity Association. Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson of Essa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, said, "I am pleased to participate in the opening of the second UAE Food Bank site. This initiative was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. We, at Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, have the honour to establish, build, equip and operate this site here in the Bada area with the full funding of our organisation." "Our organisation will also fully finance the establishment and operation of the UAE Food Bank's next location in Al Muhaisinah, in accordance with our agreement with the Bank and Dubai Municipality, signed in June 2017, under which the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charitable Foundation will be the permanent sponsor of these two sites," she said. "Today's opening of this site is a new step in giving and charity, the two characteristics of the UAE community both inside and outside the UAE. The UAE Food Bank initiative is a pioneering idea for the purpose of establishing a culture of charity and giving in the society through the involvement of all segments of the society in its programs, campaigns and initiatives, and to reduce the cost of food that is disposed of in the UAE annually, which is estimated at about Dhs13 billion," said Al Gurg. "Our Foundation has many objectives to achieve in the fields of charitable work, such as building mosques, healthcare, school and university education, sponsoring orphans and caring people of determination and others. Our organization also gives great attention to the projects of preserving the blessings and providing food for the poor and needy inside and outside the country, which has made us the pioneers in giving full-time sponsorship of the two sites of UAE Bank Food initiative," she said. "I invite companies, associations, organizations and businessmen to take part in sponsoring this new institution, UAE Food Bank, an integrated humanitarian system to achieve and consolidate the value of food for the needy and the poor within a sustainable institutional framework. I would also like to emphasize the great role of our strategic partner, Dubai Municipality, one of the parties to our agreement with UAE Food Bank, for its efforts and its great potential to make this initiative a success," said Al Gurg. "The cooperation and partnership of our organization with UAE Bank and Dubai Municipality is undoubtedly something that we are keen to continue in the future, and we emphasize its growth and expansion," she added. The launch of the second operational site of UAE Food Bank will be the second cornerstone for the Bank's operations. The second branch will be followed by branches and other operational locations in different regions of Dubai this year, and the establishment of branches and locations across the country and then centers and locations of the Bank outside the country, within a reasonable time frame, to serve the affected and disadvantaged communities, refugee communities, survivors of wars and natural disasters. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid had launched the UAE Food Bank early January in conjunction with his 11th Accession Day celebrations. The bank aims to collect surplus food from the hotels and hospitality sector establishments, restaurants, supermarkets, foodstuff markets, factories and food farms and distribute them to those in need, both within and outside the country, in cooperation with a network of local and international humanitarian and charitable institutions. Dubai Municipality oversees the operations of the Bank by following up the process of collecting, preserving and storing food in accordance with the best standards of food safety and hygiene. The Municipality will also develop training programs for volunteers on the preservation and packaging of foods according to the specified rules and regulations. The Municipality has also provided a guideline to the hospitality and food industry and charitable organizations on the standards of food safety and hygiene and the terms and conditions for donating their surplus foods. State-run Business France, which supports development of the French economy, will field about 40 companies at the upcoming Adipec show, a leading oil and gas event in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The companies, representative of the industry's various sectors, will be presenting their products, services and expertise to local professionals with a view to developing or strengthening partnerships during the event running from November 11 to 13. With major reserves (48 per cent of the world's oil reserves and 38 per cent of its gas resources) and an expected two-fold increase in its production between 2004 and 2020, the Middle East is a leading global player and the commercial opportunities in the oil and gas industry in the region are vast. The expertise of French companies, their technological skills and their capacity for innovation have helped the French oil and gas services industry to garner international recognition and a leading position among European exporters. It is an industry par excellence, with one or more international leaders in the majority of its business areas. Alongside operators the likes of TOTAL, it consists of oil and gas industry equipment and service providers which include world giants such as CGG and Technip. The sector also has two world-renowned research institutes, IFP Energies Nouvelles and IFREMER, and several major engineering firms and contractors. The French companies will offer solutions that serve the needs of operators: reservoir optimization, reserve development, precision tools for wells and surface units, facility equipment and surveillance systems, environmental protection, and more, a statement said.- TradeArabia News Service Oman Air, the national carrier of the sultanate, has announced that is board of directors has accepted the resignation of its chief executive officer Paul Gregorowitsch. The board thanked Gregorowitsch for his efforts during his tenure with the company. Engineer Abdulaziz Saud AlRaisi, executive vice president for products and brand development, will serve as the acting CEO with immediate effect until a permanent replacement of the CEO is announced in due course, a statement said.-TradeArabia News Service InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the opening of InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, the first international luxury hotel brand at The Quayside, Robertson Quay. Set amidst a dynamic, sophisticated neighbourhood along the Singapore River, known for its dining options and arts houses, the luxury hotel has been carefully curated by world-class designers, architects and culinary purveyors. Located just a few minutes from the central business district, the hotel still maintains a stylish but laid back, relaxed feel in the leafy, upscale neighbourhood of Robertson Quay. The hotel offers 225 luxurious studios and suites, including an expansive Penthouse, which has unparalleled views of both the Singapore River and vibrant city via floor-to-ceiling windows. Designed by award-winning architect firm, SCDA, the residential-inspired property combines elements from Robertson Quays industrial and intriguing past with sleek contemporary finishes using rich Italian marble, slate, brushed copper and bronzes, whilst seamlessly blending into the residential surrounds. The light-filled room interiors have been designed to magnify the familiar comforts of home. Guests can sink into soft, plush, custom-made furnishings and enjoy bespoke amenities such as a specially designed in-room cocktail kit by local bar gurus Proof & Co. InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay is fully equipped for business travellers, with five intimate meeting and event spaces as well as an exclusive 24-hour Club InterContinental lounge. Club guests will enjoy access to tailored and personalised services, including a dedicated team to personalise their stay, private in room or lounge check-in and impressive Club rooms. Quayside Lounge, which is set amongst lush tropical surroundings on level four, offers sophisticated afternoon tea and curated evening cocktails. Guests looking to maintain their wellness routines can look forward to recreational facilities such as the lap pool and 24-hour fitness studio. Established as part of a holistic dining and lifestyle destination, the hotel will boast a wide range of restaurant and bar concepts. Flagship restaurant Publico, representing the central core of Italian culture, will be a multi-concept dining destination comprising a variety of Italian experiences under one roof a neighbourhood deli and bar and a ristorante with adjoining terrazzo by the river. Other highlights throughout the hotel include New York institution Wolfgangs Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zwiener, and a bar and dining concept from the team behind Izy Sushi. Mark Winterton, general manager of InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, said: InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay has been created and positioned to make you feel at home, to bring an inspiring lifestyle offering to both the local community and visitors alike. With a fresh, residential-inspired design feel across the property and a plethora of dynamic food and beverage outlets, we are excited to bring a new InterContinental to centre stage in Singapore, and in the citys most reinvigorated neighbourhood. - TradeArabia News Service Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa has appointed Emre Kirazci as the new director of sales and marketing along with Marie-Claire McCartney as the new Thalassa manager of the Thalassa Sea & Spa. A Turkish national, Kirazci joins Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa with strong backgrounds extending from the hospitality sector. In 2012, Kirazci was appointed as the director of Global Accounts in the world renowned group; FRHI Hotels (Fairmont, Raffles and Swissotel Hotels), where he was able to adapt his extensive knowledge in sales and business management to lead the group successfully. With the merger of AccorHotels and FRHI Hotels, Kirazci moved to the regional sales Team as director of Key Leisure Accounts, heading the leisure segment within Middle East region. Commenting on his new role at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, Kirazci said: I am delighted to join the Sofitel Bahrain team and look forward to becoming an integral part of the strategic dynamic of this property. I hope to strengthen our relations with partners across the GCC and international markets, at the same time driving the property to further success. McCartney, originally from Trinidad, has obtained her knowledge in the spa and wellness industry over the past 13 years. Moving all the way from Willow Stream Spa, Fairmont Southampton, Bermuda, her business skillset and spa expertise has expanded from Canada to the GCC. Being a part of the spa and salon managing sector as well as her top notch qualifications in spa therapy, McCartney has become reputable for her ability to guide with exemplary VIP client relations, team motivation, as well as being an expert at specialising in vast range of treatments as a practitioner and a trainer. She is well-versed in local and international spa and salon protocols, as well as the exemplary customer service to satisfy a diverse clientele. Having been a spa manager for over three years in Bahrain, as well as holding leadership positions for over ten years more at an international level, she is sure to excel at her new role and pave the way for an enhanced experience and improved standards. McCartney said: "My only focus is our clientele and providing a mix of compassion and dedication to every guest. I am pleased to join the only Thalassa Sea & Spa in the Middle East and I look forward to offering an exclusive Thalassa experience to our guests that can only be enjoyed in France, Morocco, or Italy. We are very excited and thrilled to have Kirazci and McCartney join our Magnifique team here at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa and with their line of experience and expertise, we surely are leaving their teams, departments and our valuable guests in trusting hands, said the director of operations, Mehdi Hanayen. We are looking forward to all the success and are confident that they both are the right choice to further elevate standards and ensure that their teams are preforming to the best of their abilities said Hanayen. - TradeArabia News Service ON THE MOVE: Deutsche Nabs Huchro; Goldman Names CDO Deutsche Bank said in a statement that Paul Huchro will join this week in the firms New York office to run global investment-grade credit trading. He will also be head of high-yield credit trading in the US and Europe. Huchro spent three decades at Goldman Sachs, where he was named a partner in 2008 and led the Wall Street bank's US credit trading team. Deutsche Bank has hired 21 people to work in its European investment grade bond sales, trading and research businesses during the past 18 months, the bank added, while in the US, it has taken on 19 new staff in the same business over that period. If you have a new job or promotion to report, let me know at jdantona@marketsmedia.com Conversely, Jeff Wecker has returned to Goldman Sachs as its new chief data officer. Wecker came from Bridgewater Associates where he served as head of front office transformation and will focus on the banks information and data strategy, business intelligence and commercialization. He will report to John Madsen and Ezra Nahum. Earier in his career, Wecker spent 11 years at Goldman from 1984 to 1995, according to his LinkedIn page. Citigroup has hired Kris Hopkins, a former Bank of America Merrill Lynch and JP Morgan derivatives trader, to run futures execution in Singapore. Hopkins reports to Kevin Zolkiewicz, Citigroups head of futures execution for Asia Pacific. Cowen announced that Drew Forman, Managing Director, Head of Derivatives Sales and Trading and Evan Karp, Director of Derivatives Sales and Trading, recently joined the firms Derivatives Sales and Trading team. Forman and Karp are responsible for further expanding Cowens institutional derivatives capabilities and report to Kyle Solomon, Managing Director of Alternative Equity Strategies. Prior to Cowen, Forman was Managing Partner, Co-Head of Sales and Trading at Macro Risk Advisors (MRA) where he helped run the firms trading desk. Before joining MRA in 2012, he was a senior derivatives trader at Nomura Securities. In addition, he previously worked as a derivatives trader at JP Morgan. Karp most recently worked as a sales trader at Macro Risk Advisors where he served as an execution touchpoint in the areas of index and equity options as well as cash and ETF products. Prior to working at MRA, Karp worked in Institutional Equity Sales at BMO Capital Markets and was also a Sales Executive at SNL Financial. 1 2 next For more information on related topics, visit the following channels: Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 17 Under the Indo-German School Partnerships, a contingent of 23 German students visited Chandigarh today. The students, most of them are pursuing high secondary education, are from Krefeld, Solingen and Wuppertal, three cities of Northrhine-Westphalian state of Germany. The students will go to Barog, Himachal Pradesh, from here and then to Shimla. They will be in Dehradun for Diwali. The programme is of two weeks. The students will spend one week with an Indian family. Rajvinder Singh, a Kapurthala-born writer based in Berlin since 1980, is the initiator and felicitator of this school-level exchange. He said, Globalisation has not only enhanced international and inter-cultural mobility on our planet, but has in fact made the dream of educational and communitarian dynamism of networking among nations a reality. Consequently, we do not only talk about the other today, but also and primarily talk to each other. He had started giving creative writing workshops on Indo-German themes in schools to make the German students acquainted with and aware of the multi-cultural, multi-religious, multi-ethnic and multi-lingual fabric of India. From there, it was expanded to school partnership exchange when he led a group of students and teachers of Bayreuther Strasse in Wuppertal to Delhis Springdale School. It was then expanded to Delhi Public Schools and soon involved more than 100 schools throughout India when the coordination was taken over by the Goethe Institute, whose branches in India are called Max Mueller Bhawan named after the German Indologist. Since, 2014, Kendriya Vidyalayas have also been enrolled. Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 16 A 53-year-old pedestrian was killed after being hit by a speeding motorcycle near the Sector 25/38 light point on Sunday night. According to the police, the victim has been identified as Digambar Prasad, a resident of Sector 25. Sources said the victim was going towards his home when a motorcycle heading towards the Sector 25/38 light point hit him. The motorcycle hit the victim from the rear side, leading to serious injuries. The police were informed after which the victim was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The victim was a labourer. The motorcyclist has been identified as Piyush (22) of Dadu Majra. Our Correspondent Kharar, October 16 You are the future of a new India and now the time has come to repay back to society in the form of new ideas and technologies that you will develop to address the national and local issues using the education and knowledge that you have accumulated. This was stated by UT Administrator VP Singh Badnore while speaking at the second annual convocation of Chandigarh University in Gharuan. He conferred degrees on as many as 746 graduate and postgraduate engineering students and felicitated 15 university toppers with gold medals. While delivering his convocation address to the students, Badnore advised the students to choose entrepreneurship rather than look for jobs. He said, India requires job providers rather than job seekers and with the government encouraging the youth to come forward with new ideas, it is high time that universities in the country prepare the next generation of entrepreneurs for India. He said, The convocation marks an important day in the lives of students as it is a significant milestone in their journey. The Governor advised the university to create an endowment fund where the alumni could contribute through money and other resources can be utilised to provide new research opportunities to the next batch of students. Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor, Chandigarh University, said: We are committed to churning out not only professionals for the industry but good human beings also who can become an asset for society and contribute richly with their experience and knowledge. He said, It is easy for the universities to produce just the degree holders, but difficult to make students employable and we at Chandigarh University are delighted to be successful in this endeavour. Tribune News Service Mohali, October 16 A team of the Customs intelligence staff arrested a gold smuggler at the Chandigarh international airport in Mohali and recovered 1,350 gm gold (24 carat), worth around Rs 40 lakh, from his possession. The accused has been identified as Harsh, a resident of Jalandhar. He is a businessman. He had concealed four pieces of two gold biscuits in the sole of his shoes and was crossing the green channel when the Customs intelligence team intercepted him after noticing something amiss. AS Ranga, Commissioner, Customs Department, said the accused arrived in Chandigarh by an Air India Express flight from Sharjah on Saturday. During a search, the Customs team recovered the gold biscuits from his possession after which he was arrested, said the Commissioner. The accused had split the two gold biscuits into four pieces. One gold biscuit weighed around 1 kg while the other weighed 350 gm, said sources. Under the Customs Act, officials can arrest a person carrying smuggled goods worth Rs 20 lakh or above, said the sources. The accused was later released on bail. Investigations are on in the case, said the Commissioner. Tribune News Service Panchkula, October 16 The Panchkula police have arrested UT Head Constable Lal Singh, who was posted in the intelligence wing, in connection with Dera Sacha Sauda Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singhs escape bid on August 25. Lal Singh was in Panchkula, but not on official duty. With the arrest of Lal Singh, the Panchkula police have so far arrested 13 policemen of Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab and Rajasthan in connection with the dera chiefs escape bid. Confirming the development, Panchkula Police Commissioner AS Chawla said Lal Singh was seen in the video footage outside the District Courts complex on August 25. Asked, the Chandigarh Police told the Panchkula police that there were no written orders of Lal Singhs duty in Panchkula on August 25. The Panchkula police have already arrested a police official of Rajasthan, eight of the Haryana Police, including commandos posted in the security of the dera chief, and three Punjab policemen. 4 Punjab cops on the radar The Panchkula police have sought details of four Punjab Police intelligence officials, who were also present in Panchkula on August 25. The police have sought a copy of the official orders of their posting in Panchkula. A senior police official said in case the Punjab Government failed to provide the documents, they would soon arrest them as well. 3 pvt security men at large Three private security men, wanted in connection with the dera chiefs escape bid, are absconding. Police Commissioner AS Chawla said they were conducting raids to arrest them. 2 held for sheltering Honeypreet The Panchkula police have arrested Sharanjit Kaur and Gurmeet Singh, both residents of Jangirana village in Bathinda district of Punjab, under Section 216 of the IPC for providing shelter to Honeypreet for 10 days. They have also arrested Gopal Bansal, a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, in connection with the Panchkula violence. He was part of the 45-member Dera Sacha Sauda committee. Sukhdeep Brar Sukhdeep Brar LESS than two decades ago, Punjab was the top state in the per capita income rankings. Today, it ranks 14th. Haryana, which historically used to follow Punjab at the second slot, is now several spots ahead. Two factors have contributed to this decline in Punjab: The economic liberalisation of 1991: States that already had an industrial base of sorts were early jumpers on the FDI bandwagon and have continued to benefit from it. They modified policies to woo investmentand put supporting infrastructure in place. States that already had an industrial base of sorts were early jumpers on the FDI bandwagon and have continued to benefit from it. They modified policies to woo investmentand put supporting infrastructure in place. Punjab is no longer the sole agriculture powerhouse that it once was: In 1990, Punjab contributed 60% of the wheat and 45% of the rice to the central pool. Owing to improved agricultural production in states such as Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, this contribution has dropped to 43% for wheat and 29% for rice, despite bumper harvests. Overhaul farm sector The agriculture sector is critical to Punjab's economy and needs a drastic overhaul. This overhaul must begin with reform of the ownership and tenancy laws in force since the Mughal times. These archaic laws are at the root of Punjab's governance malaise. The land ceiling laws allow individual ownership of 17.5 acres of irrigated land and 32 acres of unirrigated or 'barani' land. Owners with holdings above the limit have found ways to flout the law to retain larger holdings: by transferring land to relatives, servants, etc. In many cases, possession of land acquired by the state under the ceiling laws was never given up by the owner. There are also instances where surplus land has reverted to the owners in connivance with officials. A recent circular issued by the Revenue Department, threatening to review cases of landholdings above permissible limit with a view to enforcing the ceiling laws caused a stir and had to be withdrawn within days. In 2013, the SAD-BJP government had proposed to relax the ceiling limits, but this proposal was abandoned. Review farm land ceiling There are good arguments to do away with agricultural land ceiling. The most fundamental being, hypothetically, that a person can own an entire city but must adhere to unreasonably small limits in agricultural landholding. Breaking the bone of feudalism and redistribution of land to spread welfare gains in a largely poor population were fashionable ideas post Independence. These ideas are misplaced in the current scenario where economic growth will depend not only on industrial growth, but also on industrialisation of agriculture. Research that links agriculture productivity growth to land redistribution and tenants' willingness to adopt better farming technologies is single-dimensional. There is nothing to suggest that such agriculture practices were not or would not have been adopted by landowners with large landholdings. In fact, small landholdings are not conducive to technology adoption, do not allow for economies of scale, nor cover risk associated with crop diversification. The government should review the land ceiling laws to at least liberalise, if not do away with, the restrictions on landholdings. Over time, this will lead to land consolidation, and a shift of labour into areas other than agriculture. Typically, the less developed a country, the higher the percentage of its population engaged in agriculture. In Punjab, approximately 40% of the population is employed in agriculture against 48.8% for India. The average for the G-7 countries is 3.86%. Israel, renowned for its technological advancements in agriculture, has only 1% of its population engaged in agriculture. Legalise land leasing The above issues can only be resolved by amending the laws. In 2015, NITI Aayog set up an expert committee under the chairmanship of Dr T Haque to prepare a model agricultural land leasing report. The report, submitted in March 2016, contains a draft law to legalise land leasing that ensures complete security of land ownership rights for landowners and security of tenure for tenants for the agreed lease period with automatic resumption of land after expiry of the agreed lease period. It provides for the terms and conditions of lease to be determined mutually by the landowner and the tenant without any fear on the part of the landowner of losing land right or undue expectation on the part of the tenant of acquiring occupancy right for continuous possession of leased land. It also removes the clause of adverse possession. Enacting an agriculture land leasing law based on the Haque committee's recommendations would at once simplify land records, minimise corruption, litigation and conflict, and put an end to the lawlessness and crime that thrives around land disputes. The administration would be able to devote more time to the issues of real governance and the broader development agenda, specifically improving service delivery in key sectors such as education and health. No state can aspire to good governance if flouting the law is legitimised in the most important sector of its economy. For this, Punjab will need structural reforms. Who better to free Punjab of the shackles of feudalism and put it on the path to modernisation than Capt Amarinder Singh who has himself so gracefully made the transition from royalty to a modern leader? It would be a legacy worthy of his stature. The writer is a former IAS officer, who retired from the World Bank Outdated laws damaging social fabric Ottawa, October 17 Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau celebrated the Hindu festival of lights Diwali with the Indian community in Ottawa on Monday. Attired in a black sherwani, Trudeau lit the ceremonial lamp and wished the Indian diaspora a happy Diwali. Indian High Commissioner to Canada Vikas Swarup was also present on the occasion. Diwali Mubarak! Were celebrating in Ottawa tonight. #HappyDiwali! Trudeau tweeted. Last month, Canada Post and India Post had jointly issued two stamps to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights. Diwali, which is celebrated with great fervour and gaiety across India, marks the return Lord Ram, the king of Ayodhya in northern India, after his victory over demon king Ravana in distant Lanka, as well as the culmination of his 14-year-long exile. Lord Ram is widely regarded as the reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. Diwali is also celebrated to honour Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth and prosperity and consort of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi blesses those homes that are clean and well lit. On Diwali, people illuminate their houses with coloured lights and earthen lamps. Known for embracing cultural and religious diversity, Prime Minister Trudeau had also recently celebrated and greeted the Muslim population in his country on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr in June this year. He was wearing a pair of socks with text reading Eid Mubarak, written on it, honouring the religious day that marked the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. ANI Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 17 Urging the United States Congress to consider creating a caucus for Sikhs, former Union Minister Balwant Singh Ramoowalia urged senior Republican Congressman Dana Rohrabacher to take a lead in creating the group there. Ramoowalia, who organised a meeting with the visiting Congressman, said it is time for the elected representatives to crate the caucus so that issues relating to the community could be better highlighted both among the law-makers and the people. Rohrabacher, serving his 13th term in the House represents the 48th District of California. There have been attacks on members of the community, including the ghastly attack five years ago at a gurdwara in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in which followers lost lives. According to reports from the United States, the community continued its outreach programme since the attack. While presenting a siropa and replica of the Golden Temple to the visiting Congressman, the former Union minister said Representative Rohrabacher has been at the forefront of an effort to promote the distinct identity of Sikhs and spreading awareness among the people about the community known for their industriousness and hard work. ON Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was at his vitriolic best in Gandhinagar. It was a revealing performance. For a man who for more than three years has been the Prime Minister of India and is, ipso facto, credited with a pan-Indian thought process, Modi revealed himself to be an unreconstructed Gujarati sub-nationalist. As Chief Minister, from 2001 to 2014, he positioned himself as the vigilant guardian of Gujarats interests; this mobilisation of Gujarati sub-nationalism helped him defy his own partys national leadership then and manufacture the Congress-is-anti-Gujarat narrative. But for the Prime Minister to now dip into that pool of lingering resentment is an affront to the office he holds and the obligation he has to work for the welfare of the entire nation. The amount of attention that Modi and other senior BJP leaders are paying to Rahul Gandhi, as mascot of what the Prime Minister called vanshvaad (as juxtaposed to the BJPs vikasvaad), betrays a strange obsession and, perhaps, a bit of nervousness. The Congress campaign in Gujarat has, in fact, zeroed in on Modis model of development. If Gujarat has the reputation of a prosperous state, it is primarily because of all the industrialisation, cooperative movements and farming innovations that took place during Congress rule, much before the BJP could storm the Gandhinagar secretariat on the politics of communal mobilisation; indeed, development has always been part of Gujarats political culture. The Prime Minister is injecting a false dichotomy. Be that as it may, it is the tone that the Prime Minister has sought to set on Monday that should be a matter of concern. The BJP has now been in power for nearly two decades in Gujarat. Inevitably, its stewardship has produced its own share of grievances and aberrations; the so-called Gujarat model is more a hype than reality; political emotions can easily be manipulated in a Hindu-Muslim binary. It is natural for the BJP to have accumulated an anti-incumbency baggage and it is quite natural for the anti-BJP forces to create an alternative narrative. The Modi crowd may feel it is entitled to a walkover in Gujarat, but the Opposition cannot be faulted if it demurs. Satya Prakash Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 17 Amid growing concern over safety of schoolgoing children, the Haryana government has issued a set of comprehensive guidelines that include dos and donts to be followed by schools, teachers, children and parents. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) Prepared by the Directorate of Education of Haryana government, the Regulations on School Safety has recommended framing of a three-tier safety committees at the level of schools, sub-divisions and districts across the state. a safe environment to work and study in schools is the utmost need for a successful academic functioning of schools to meet the objectives of schooling, stated the safety regulations issued after the murder of a Ryan International School student at Gurugram last month. The document that has been sent to all Deputy Commissioners, District Education Officers, Board of Secondary Education Secretary, Secretary of CBSE/ICSE in New Delhi and other state government officials, specifically mentioned that the schools not implementing these guidelines would lose government aid and recognition and face criminal action. The government can also take over the managing committee of a private school, it said. A major part of the guidelines applicable to both government and private schools cover safety of children in schools and their travel to and from school. Since children spend a large part of their day in schools and while travelling to and from schools hence, their safety during this time is exceedingly important. Cases of abuse of children on the school premises, or even accidentscan be reasonably prevented if some standard operating procedure is followed, read the 23-page document that was given to the Supreme Court last week by Haryana Additional Advocate General Anil Grover. A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra which is hearing several petitions on safety of school going children asked Grover to file it in the form of an affidavit. The guidelines -- which recommended framing school, sub-division and district level safety committees -- also favoured installing CCTV cameras at various places in schools and ensuring fire safety. To prevent child abuse, the guidelines stated, it was important to educate children about good touch and bad touch as also hazards of internet use and goes not to list out responsibilities of teachers and parents. A threat to safety can originate from any quarter. Therefore, we have to be vigilant on all these. There are many well-known risk patterns, yet at the same time, many modern and complex situations have also started coming up which cast a shadow on the safe development of the academic environment of educational institutions, the guidelines stated emphasizing the need to ensure healthy atmosphere in schools. Besides recommending the usual precautions such as having trained drivers and following designated routes, the Guidelines said: Every bus should have a female teacher and one female helper/didi present on the route. Therefore, presence of an adult female is essential before the first student boards the bus at the start of the journey and also till the last student gets off at the end of the journey. Sushil Manav Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 17 Officials of the Income Tax (I-T) Department arrived in Sirsa today to conduct a search at Dera Sacha Sauda, but would have to wait for a few days as a local court adjourned till October 21 its decision on the I-T teams application. The team of the I-T Departments investigation wing, led by Assistant Director Data Ram, reached Sirsa to conduct the search as per directions of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. When contacted, Data Ram refused to divulge any details, saying only the Central Board of Direct Taxation in Delhi was authorised to share details with the media. Sources said since the police had conducted a search operation after dera chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singhs conviction and documents, computers and hard discs were lying sealed with it, the I-T Departments search implied inspection of the material for anything incriminating regarding tax evasion. The sources said the police told the I-T officials that they could not share the data without court permission since the entire operation had been conducted under the supervision of a Court Commissioner appointed by the High Court. The I-T team moved an application before Sirsa Chief Judicial Magistrate Vijay James for getting copies of material seized from the police. The court called for the record from the Sirsa City police station. The SHO sought time. Since the next three days are court holidays, the court fixed October 21 as the next date of hearing, said Ashish Singla, standing counsel for the I-T Department in Sirsa. The police conducted the search operation at the dera from September 7 to 10. On September 28, the High Court directed the Enforcement Directorate and I-T Department to probe allegations of money laundering against the dera. Sushil Manav Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 17 A team of the Income Tax Department on Tuesday arrived in Sirsa to hold search operations in Dera Sacha Sauda, but it will have to wait for some days as a local court has adjourned till October 21 its decision on the teams application. The team of investigation wing of the Income Tax Department led by Assistant Director, Income Tax, Data Ram, came to Sirsa in the morning to conduct search operations as per the directions of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) On September 28, the Punjab and Haryana High Court had directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax (IT) Department to probe the allegations of money laundering surrounding the functioning of Dera Sacha Sauda and its assets in Punjab and Haryana said to be worth hundreds of crores of rupees. When contacted by The Tribune, Data Ram refused to divulge any details and said only the Central Board of Direct Taxation in Delhi was authorised to share details with the media. Sources said that since the police have already conducted search operations in the dera after conviction of Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh and documents as well as computers and hard discs are already lying sealed with it, the Income Tax Departments search implies inspection of these materials to see whether there is anything incriminating with regard to tax evasions. Sources said the police, however, told the team that they could not share the data save with the permission of the court since the entire search operations were conducted under supervision of the court commissioner appointed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court. After that, the income tax team moved an application before the Sirsa Chief Judicial Magistrate Vijay James for getting copies of the seized material from the police. The court has called for the record from Sirsa City Police Station with regard to FIR number 695 registered there with regard to the searches. The SHO sought time. Since, the next three days are court holidays, the court has fixed the next date of hearing on October 21, says Ashish Singla, the Standing Counsel for the Income Tax Department in Sirsa. Police had conducted search operations in Dera Sacha Sauda from September 7 to 10 after the conviction of its chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh that led to violence in Panchkula, Sirsa and some other parts resulting in death of 42 persons. Parveen Arora Tribune News Service Karnal, October 17 Despite a ban by the National Green Tribunal and state government on stubble burning, farmers in Karnal and Kurukshetra districts are on top among violators, according to data jointly collected by the Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Agriculture Department and Revenue Department. Violations are rampant even though Section 144 of the CrPC has been enforced and directions for strict action against violators issued by the government. As many as 518 cases of stubble burning have been reported till October 13, with 206 cases having been identified in Karnal district and 149 in Karnal, said Virender Punia, SDO, Haryana State Pollution Control Board. Of the rest, 71 cases have been reported in Kaithal district, 20 in Sonepat, 18 each in Panipat, Sirsa and Jind districts, 10 in Palwal, four in Panchkula, three in Yamunanagar and one case in Ambala district, he added. As many as 118 FIRs have been registered in Karnal district, while 14 FIRs in Sonepat district, he maintained. The Agriculture Department has collected a fine of Rs 4.87 lakh in 183 violation cases so far. Of this, Rs 1.47, 500 has been collected in Karnal district, Rs 1,29,500 in Kaithal, Rs 1,25,000 in Kurukshetra, Rs 45,000 in Panipat, Rs 25,000 in Palwal and Rs 15,000 in Sonepat. The Bhartiya Kisan Union has been protesting strictness of district administrations over stubble burning and has threatened to burn the crop residue in the open. Led by state president Rattan Mann, they had protested in Yamunanagar, Kurukshetra and Karnal recently. Mann said it was not viable for farmers to manage stubble in the fields as they did not have the latest equipment. He said it was difficult for them to manage stubble and prepare land for the next crop at the same time. An official said the government had banned stubble burning to curb the increasing pollution in Haryana, Delhi and the NCR. He said farmers violating the order have been warned of strict action. Cases reported 71 cases of stubble burning have been reported in Kaithal district, 20 in Sonepat, 18 each in Panipat, Sirsa and Jind districts, 10 in Palwal, four in Panchkula, three in Yamunanagar and one case in Ambala district. As many as 118 FIRs have been registered in Karnal district alone. Tribune News Service Jammu, October 17 Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti called on Railway Minister Piyush Goel in New Delhi today. She brought several issues of the state pertaining to the Railways with the Union Minister and sought their early redressal. The Chief Minister strongly pitched for the early completion of Katra-Banihal section of the Jammu-Baramulla railway line to connect the state with rest of the country through an all-weather link. The Union Minister issued on-the-spot instructions to the Railway Ministry for a review and advancement of the completion date of the Katra-Banihal section. She also sought the extension of rail link up to Kupwara in Kashmir along with Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu province. To which, Goel informed the Chief Minister that preliminary survey in this regard had been completed and the project was being examined for funding in the Central Government. The Union Minister also informed Mehbooba that the Railways would run cold storage containers from Jammu to other parts of the country to ferry horticulture produce from the state. It was agreed upon in the meeting that the Horticulture Secretary would pursue the matter with the Railway authorities in this regard. Piyush Goel assured all support from his ministry to boost tourism in the state. He informed the Chief Minister that specially designed trains would soon chug off from Jammu to Katra while more such trains would be introduced in Kashmir from spring next year. The Chief Minister also raised other issues like giving employment to locals by IRCON, a halt station at Naina Batpora, expediting work on other halt stations on the Banihal-Baramulla railway line and transfer back of land at Banihal for constructing a stadium there. The Union Minister assured the Chief Minister of a positive approach and substantive action by his ministry on the demands raised. Majid Jahangir Tribune News Service Srinagar, October 16 A ruling Peoples Democratic Party worker was shot dead by militants outside his house in south Kashmirs Shopian this evening. In the scuffle that ensued between the attackers and the family members of the slain PDP worker, a Hizbul Mujahideen militant identified as Showkat Falai was also killed, the police said. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) Three miltants killed ex-panch Mohammad Ramzan in Shopian. In the scuffle between militants and the family following the killing, one militant Showkat was also killed, J&K Director General of Police Shesh Paul Vaid told The Tribune. It is for the first time that a militant has been killed in such a situation. The police said PDP worker Mohammad Ramzan was shot at near his residence at Huomhuna Imam Sahib, 55 km from Srinagar, at 8 pm. He was reportedly dragged out of his house and shot at point-blank range. Srinagar, October 17 Tension gripped Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara town on Tuesday after the army rescued a soldier who had been accused of being involved in a braid-chopping incident. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) A large crowd built up in the area after he was rescued from a mob that was beating him up ruthlessly. The rescued soldier was said to be critically injured, and was moved to a hospital in Srinagar. IANS Amarjot Kaur More than 20 families of Kumhars (potters), dwelling at a slum in Sector 25, Kumhar Colony, have been toiling in the sun to make an extra buck this Diwali. With all hands on deck, they have already made hundreds of tiny diyas, which will be sold in the market for Rs 10 a dozen. In sight is a considerably old, stout, grey-haired woman, meticulously crafting a chulah-like earthen-ware. Her sons, Vinod and Dinesh Kumar, are busy too. The younger one, Vinod (34), sifts the clay from a puddle of mud through a wood-frame jaali. He is knee-deep in one of the three pits he dug to hold the clay. Dinesh is busy arranging the diyas, alternating them with small portions of cow-dung cake to make a bhatti (a jugaad for kiln). They claim to be the fourth-generation inhabitants of Chandigarha city that was built in 1960. Deep roots Our ancestors dug the foundation for many buildings here, including the Tagore Theatre and The Secretariat. We are probably the oldest community living in the city, says Vinod, who later tells us that before it was demolished in 2007, the Kumhar Colony was home to 271 families at least. In an article published in The Tribune (Chandigarh edition), on July 12, 2007, it was mentioned that the land (of Kumhar Colony) was to be handed over to Panjab University and that 350 vacant structures were removed. Most people moved to Maloya village nearby. We are still homeless jhuggi-dwellers. They wouldnt even issue a registration certificate (RC) for my bike, which still has a temporary number, because the system doesnt recognise jhuggis as a permanent address, says Vinod, whose wife, an anganwadi worker, has not received her salary for months now. In a good season, Vinod adds, we earn up to Rs 20,000, but we are a 13-member family. Also, I have two daughters and a son to look after. The elder one studies at the government school in Sector 23, the younger one goes to Guru Nanak Public School, Sector 36; and the boy goes to Sector 22s Shishu Niketan Model Senior Secondary School. Family profession Though Kumhars send their children to school, most of them take after the familys profession after tenth. In the neighbouring jhuggi, 17-year-old Vikas keeps the wheel spinning, as he shapes a chunk of clay into a vase-like structure making a diya on its tip. His mother, Kamla Devi, too sculpts without stopping for a second. When asked if he went to school, Vikas replies quickly, ...at the church in Sector 24, I did, but I had to get back to pottery to make ends meet. Cant let my family starve, can I? The question lingers as one walks out of the colony towards the road. On the pavement, Vinods elder brother, Dinesh, is still stacking diyas in a bhatti. On the other side of this wall is the boys hostel (of Panjab Universitys Sector 25 campus). We need to bake these real quick. If the boys complain to the police about the smoke, they will come and throw water on it; I cant afford a loss. These must be about 100 diyas, says Dinesh. Vinod adds, Thankfully, we have these newly installed toilets here, but theres no water. There are only two taps that supply water in this colony. We all take turns to fetch it for making clay. Wishful thinking Reenu, all of 22, assists her mother about 10 feet from Dineshs bhatti. For the sake of small talk, she makes an innocuous request, You write for a newspaper? We didnt even get an accommodation in the Bhaskar Colony. We ask her what she wishes for this Diwali. A pakka house that doesnt fill up with rainwater during the monsoon, and I want to study further, she gives a hopeful smile. Maloya serves as a government-made rehabilitation colony for the Kumhars that were displaced from Sector 25s Kumhar Colony in 2007. amarjot@tribunemail.com One for the road Near the traffic signal dividing Sector 23 and 24, Pawan Kumar holds the fort like he has been doing for the past nine years. This 28-year-old has everything, ranging from floaters, taborets, idols of lord Ganesh and goddess Lakshmi, to Gujarati diyas. Its good that the Chinese lights are being boycotted. That has given us more business. People have started to frequent our shops now. I do make enough, maybe because we have fancy items, he says. However, in Sector 41, a Maloya-based couple looks anxiously at passer-bys, hoping to strike a deal. This time we havent made any profit, neither during Navrataras, nor Karwa Chauth. I hope things get better in Diwali, say 45-year-old Pappu and his wife, Reshma. Manpriya Singh Me Toowhat started with a hashtag became synonymous with an anti-harassment rally and the two words spread with a ferocity, which only social media can afford. Me too was repeated millions of times in the past 48 hours on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, among other sites. Posted by women (and some men too) who had been a victim of sexual harassment and assault. Start of an era It all started when charmed actress Alyssa Milano shared a message on her social media, If all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted wrote Me Too. as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem. Her original tweet currently has more than 58,000 comments. Within no time, social media feeds were filled with an endless stream of people proclaiming me too. Support pours in The movement is just another offshoot of events that happen in the wake of Hollywood producer Harvey Weinsteins scandal. And sees women share their sexual harassment experiences via social media; experiences that unfortunately bring to the fore the magnitude of the issue - in the bus, in a tuition class, at a wedding, at a party, in the library, on phone, over a message! Celebrities join in In the wake of the movement, come millions of stories; shameful but long buried. Of all the people who stood up in support were the celebrities; each with an unfortunate story to share. Actress Evan Rachel Wood joined in, while highlighting just the predicament several young girls often face. Because I was shamed and considered a party girl I felt I deserved it. I shouldnt have been there, I shouldnt have been bad #metoo Ugly Betty actress America Ferrera was sexually assaulted when she was all of nine. This is how Ferreras story on Instagram reads. First time I can remember being sexually assaulted I was nine years old. I told no one and lived with the shame and guilt thinking all along that I, a nine-year-old child, was somehow responsible for the actions of a grown man. I had to see this man on a daily basis for years to come. He would smile at me and wave, and I would hurry past him, my blood running cold, my guts carrying the burden of what only he and I knew that he expected me to shut my mouth and smile back. It continues, Ladies, lets end this silence so the next generation of girls wont have to live with this, she added. Did she get it spot on? Girls find, support and spread your me too friends. Unfortunately From a celeb to a student, every girl, in every nook and corner of the world, has a me too story. Chandigarh girl Samaira Sandhu, whos currently based out of Mumbai and has done a couple of south-Indian films, the latest being Dhayam, opines, We need to broaden the definition of harassment and include not just verbal or physical but even implied torture inflicted on women in order to take advantage of them. She adds, having joined the rally online too, Finally we women of today are doing something about it. Are you too? Baldev Singh Baldev Singh In 1998, my wife and I went to Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi, for shopping. She bought a sari and I bought two books from a bookshop. When we were paying the bill for the books, the man at the counter said to me, Sardarji, if you are interested in Urdu poetry, you may go down to our basement. Ali Sardar Jafri is releasing his latest poetry book. The audience comprised about 150 persons 15 women and the remaining elderly men. We sat in the last row. Sitting behind a beautiful table was the famed poet, with a lovely bouquet in front of him, and a plump man of around 65 behind the podium. He first introduced himself as Mr Gupta, a former Air Force man who wrote poetry in Hindi. Then, he introduced the poet such: Ladies and gentlemen, Jafri saheb was born in 1913 in Bikrampur, a small town near Lucknow. His earlier college education was in Aligarh and later he finished graduation from Delhi. In 1942, he shifted to Mumbai, where he wrote scripts and songs for several Hindi films. During the past 60 years, he has written eight books of Urdu prose and nine volumes of Urdu poetry, including Mera Safar, which is being released today. His contribution to literature was acknowledged by the Government of India which honoured him with the Jnanpith Award. Only two other Urdu writers have been given this award Firaq Gorakhpuri (1969) and Shrimati Quarratulin Hyder (1989). I now request Jafri saheb to recite some poems from Mera Safar. Ali Jafri went to the podium and thanked Mr Gupta for the function and the nice introduction. He then recited some poems. He took 40 minutes to complete his narration. When he finished, I raised my hand and said, Sir, I need five minutes. Mr Gupta replied, Sardarji, we are already late, there is high tea waiting outside, you may discuss your point with Jafri saheb while taking tea. I got up and said, Mr Gupta, we all have been listening to both of you for the past one hour without yawning and showing any sign of boredom. And now, when one of us wants to say something for just five minutes, you are not prepared to listen. Dont you think it is unfair? Before Mr Gupta could speak, Sardar Jafri started laughing and said, Guptaji, today I am highly pleased; a gentleman has taught us an important lesson that the audience deserves respect. Sardarji, let others go for tea, we will sit here and I will listen to you for an hour. I told him that I did not want to discuss anything with him, rather I wanted to talk to other members of the audience. He invited me to the podium. Ladies and gentlemen, I want to remind you that Urdu is a very sweet, rich and beautiful language which, unfortunately, we have disowned, placing it in the lap of Muslims and telling them that it is their child. We have thus deprived ourselves of the pleasure it gives when we read its lyrical prose and tantalising poetry. Queen Victoria learnt Urdu for 13 years from her cook, Abdul Karim. I request all of you to own Urdu, embrace it and help it reach its rightful place. And, for that, janab, let us start reading Urdu books again by buying them and not by borrowing them from libraries. How else will Urdu authors be encouraged to write? New Delhi, October 16 Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today alleged that 90 per cent of IAS officers do not work and said at times he feels development was stuck up at the secretariat. On the bureaucrats alleged objection to the regularisation of contractual workers, Kejriwal said if Delhi had full statehood, his government would regularise all contractual employees within 24 hours. Kejriwal, while speaking at a function organised to felicitate pensioners of the Power Department, alleged the IAS officers obstructed files of development works. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) Ninety per cent of them (IAS officers) do not work and hold up the files, he said, citing his proposal for the regularisation of contractual employees, as chairman of the New Delhi Municipal Corporation. When I proposed regularisation of contractual employees, all officers opposed me. They said if regularised, they wont work. I said, if this is the logic then all IAS officers should be ad hoc because they do not work, he said. Referring to the cashless health service for Power Department pensioners, he said he had learnt that officers were causing obstacles in the implementation of the scheme. I sometimes feel the development was stuck up at the Secretariat, he said. Kejriwal said the Labour Department had been asked to prepare a notification for regularising contractual employees. I have asked the Labour Department to send the draft notification for LGs approval. If he obstructs it, they (contractual employees) will give him a befitting reply (Khaat Khadi Kar denge), Kejriwal said. Talking about his governments proposal to regularise guest teachers, passed recently in the Delhi Assembly, he said the matter was now in Lieutenant Governors (LG) hands. We have sent the file to the LG. Now, it is between the LG and the guest teachers and they can settle it out themselves, he said. Kejriwal said his government was working to implement equal pay for equal work. PTI Tribune News Service Lucknow, October 17 A day after BJP MLA Sangeets Som controversial statement describing Taj Mahal as a blot on Indian culture built by traitors, Chief Minister Adityanath was in damage control mode on Tuesday. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) Adityanath, who sources said was displeased with Soms remarks and reportedly called him to ask for an explanation, said on Tuesday: Yeh mahatva nahi rakhta ke kisney and kin karano se iska nirmal karaya. Yeh Bhartiye mazdooron ke khoon aur paseene se banaya gaya hai. Taj Mahal hamarey liye behad mahatwapurn hai. Khaastaur par tourism ke nazariye se yeh zyad mahatva rakhta hai. Wahan paryatakon ke liye suvidhayen aur suraksha muhaiya karane ki zimmedari hamari hai. (It is not important who built the Taj Mahal, why it was built. It was built by the hard work and sweat of Indian labourers. Taj Mahal is very important for us, especially from the tourism point of view. Providing tourist facilities and ensuring their security is my responsibility). He said historic monument was a significant tourist attraction and also announced he would visit Agra on October 26. Distancing the Uttar Pradesh government from Soms statement on Monday, Tourism Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi described it as Soms individual opinion, and said the Taj was her had already sanctioned Rs 155 crore for development of parks and various facilities in and around the Taj. According to principal secretary tourism and information Avanish Awasthi, the chief minister is scheduled to visit Taj Mahal and Agra fort and review tourism and other schemes for Agras development on October 26. Reacting to Soms statement earlier in the day, All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Parliamentarian Asaduddin Owaisi said the same traitors a word Som used in his speech had also built Red Fort where Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the Tiranga (tricolour) on Independence Day. In a series of tweets Owaisi had asked Can Modi and Yogi tell domestic and foreign tourist not to visit Taj Mahal? Even Hyderabad House in Delhi was built by traitor will Modi stop hosting foreign dignitaries? Similarly, Samajwadi party leader Mohd Azam Khan had also mockingly asked the state government to demolish the Taj as well as the parliament and Rashtrapati Bhawan, because they were all built by imperialist rulers. Speaking at a public meeting in Sisauli village in Meerut Sangeet Som had questioned Taj Mahals place in Indian history and called it a blot on Indian culture. According to Som, the person who built the Taj Mahal had imprisoned his father a misplaced reference in which he conflated two Mughal rulers, Jahangir and Shah Jahan and had targeted the Hindus of Uttar Pradesh and India. He had declared that it would be unfortunate if such people still found a place in history, and said that the incumbent state government was correcting a historical wrong by removing the kalank katha (sullied stories) of Akbar, Babar and Aurangzeb from school textbooks. Tribune News Service New Delhi, October 17 India got its first national-level Ayurveda institute with Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicating the All India Institute of Ayurveda to the country here today and promising an ayurveda hospital in every district. Modelled along the lines of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the new ayurveda institute will provide patient care and promote research in integrated medicine. Speaking on the inauguration, the PM lamented the loss of ancient Indian wisdom and said the government was making all out efforts to promote the AYUSH systems of medicine. He also appealed to ayurveda practitioners to develop pain killers with zero side effects and said ayurveda and yoga can together help sportspersons and Armed Forces personnel a lot. Every sportsperson hires a physiotherapist to avoid the side effects of pain killers. Ayurveda should create capacities to develop world-class ayurveda physiotherapists, said the PM, adding that herbal plantations with medicinal value would soon emerge as a new area for employment for Indians. Sharing Dhanvantari Jayanti wishes with people on the occasion of the National Ayurveda Day, the PM said no nation could ever progress by squandering and ignoring its heritage. Nations that abandon their heritage lose their identity, he noted. He said when India was servile, its knowledge, yoga and ayurveda traditions were undermined and belittled. Attempts were made to reduce the faith that Indians had in traditional medicine systems. In the last three years, this situation has changed to quite an extent and peoples trust in traditional systems is being restored. This pride in heritage is reflected by the way people gather to celebrate Ayurveda Day or Yoga Day, he said, asking the AYUSH Ministry to work for certification of practitioners at every level of ayurveda education rather than upon the completion of 5 years. He said ayurveda was not just a medical practice but encompassed public health and environmental health as well. That is why the government has laid stress on integrating ayurveda, yoga and other AYUSH systems into the public healthcare system. We are working towards establishing an ayurveda hospital in every district. More than 65 AYUSH hospitals have been developed in the past three years, he said, adding that the government had allowed 100 per cent FDI in health to attract private players. He also urged private entities to invest in AYUSH research under corporate social responsibility. Health revolution Shubhadeep Choudhury Tribune News Service Kolkata, October 17 The Calcutta High Court has once again come to the rescue of the West Bengal Government with Justice Harish Tandon today ordering stay on the withdrawal of central forces from Darjeeling. The court asked Centre to file an affidavit on the issue by October 23, and told the West Bengal Government to submit its reply on October 26. The court would now hear the case on October 27. West Bengal had moved the High Court asking for stay on the withdrawal of central forces in the interest of maintenance of law and order in the trouble-torn Darjeeling hills. On Sunday, the Ministry of Home Affairs had said that it would withdraw 10 companies of central forces from October 16 and the remaining five from October 20 onwards. However, after a phone call from the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, the latter agreed to withdraw seven companies instead of 10. Banerjee strongly protested against the decision of the Centre and said it was a unilateral decision and amounted to violation of the spirit of federal structure. The West Bengal BJP has supported the Centres move to withdraw paramilitary forces from Darjeeling. Blaming Mamata for stoking fire in Darjeeling and tormenting the people, the party said the central forces should not be used for intimidation. The Centre has the right to decide where to deploy central forces. It cant be used for anti-people activities and torturing the commoners. Mamata should not expect that the central forces would handle the hostility and agitation of people that was created because of her governments anti-people policies, state BJP president Dilip Ghosh said. Ghosh said during his recent visit to Darjeeling, people requested him to ask the Centre to withdraw central forces as these were being used indiscriminately against the locals. It may be recalled that in July, the court had directed a reluctant Centre to provide four companies of the CRPF, in addition to 11 companies of the central forces already deployed there, to quell violence in the hills. The turmoil in the Darjeeling hills began in June after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made an announcement about making Bengali compulsory in all state-run schools. HC orders stay Shubhadeep Choudhury Tribune News Service Kolkata, October 16 Emboldened by the presence of all three Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) MLAs in a meeting on Darjeeling here today, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today made it clear that the picturesque hill district was first and foremost a concern of West Bengal. We shall have to find a permanent solution to the problem in Darjeeling. If any useful suggestion is made by someone, we shall certainly consider it. But the onus of finding a solution is on us only, Banerjee said after the meeting. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) Darjeeling is an important part of our state. It is a world famous place and an international brand. I want to develop my Darjeeling and the neighbouring Kalimpong, Kurseong and Mirik. In the meeting, we all agreed on this issue, Banerjee said. Darjeeling will not face any law and order problem. We will take serious care for that, said Banerjee, who shot off letters to the Prime and Home Minister today regarding withdrawal of central forces from Darjeeling. Banerjee today sent West Bengal DGP Surajit Kar Purkayastha to Darjeeling to take stock of the law and order scenario of the area. Todays meeting at Nabanna, the state secretariat, was the third meeting between Mamata Banerjee and representatives of hill-based political parties being held to restore normalcy in the hills. Banerjee announced that she would next meet the hill parties on November 21. Banerjee today also announced that the state government would consider giving compensation to the families of the agitators who lost their lives during the recent phase of the Gorkhaland agitation. It was also agreed that there would be no disciplinary action against employees who did not attend office during the recent 104 days long shutdown enforced in the hills by the GJM. Majid Jahangir Tribune News Service Srinagar, October 17 The house of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) worker Mohammad Ramzan Sheikh, where a local Hizbul militant was killed last evening, was set ablaze by a mob at Homhuma village in Shopian this afternoon. Ramzan was buried earlier in the day. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) The miscreants entered the house as mourners and later set it ablaze. The family was rescued, a police officer said Promising stern action, state Director General of Police Shesh Paul Vaid claimed the mob was instigated by anti-national elements and ground workers of the Hizbul Mujahideen. Locals claimed despite apprehensions of a revenge attack, the family was not provided security. But Shopian Superintendent of Police AS Dinka said security personnel deployed near the house had rushed to save the family. While the police maintained Hizbuls Showkat Falai, who reportedly joined militancy last year, was hit by a bullet during a scuffle, locals alleged somebody had hit him on the head, leading to his death. The militants body was buried without a postmortem this afternoon. Three militants had on Monday barged into the house of the PDP worker, a former sarpanch, around 8 pm. Besides his wife and mother, his four children were inside. The family put up resistance. A scuffle ensued and one of the militants opened fire, killing Ramzan and his own associate Showkat. The militants then fled, taking away Shokwats rifle, the SP said. Ramzan was taken to a hospital in Zainpora where he was declared brought dead. The militants body was carried by locals to his house, 4 km away. 4 soldiers assaulted Srinagar: At least four soldiers were beaten up on the suspicion of being braid-choppers in two separate incidents in Kashmir on Tuesday. Three Territorial Army personnel were thrashed and their private car was set ablaze in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, while one soldier was beaten up in Kupwara district. He was rescued from the mob by colleagues and the police. NEW DELHI/SAO PAULO, October 16 Five years after the fatal gangrape of a student on a bus in New Delhi, the Indian capital was on Monday paired with Brazils Sao Paulo as the worlds worst megacities for sexual violence against women in a poll by the Thomson Reuters Foundation. The December 2012 attack of a 23-year-old woman was a watershed in the fight for womens rights in India, prompting thousands to take to the streets demanding action against rising sex attacks. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) The public outcry not only forced authorities to strengthen gender laws, establish speedy courts for rape and set up a fund for rape victims, but also opened up the conversation on sexual violence in the largely conservative, patriarchal nation. However Delhi, a metropolis of more than 2.6 crore people, remains known as Indias rape capital. And alongside Sao Paulo, it came joint bottom in the survey when experts on womens issues were polled about the risk women run of encountering sexual violence in 19 different megacities. Im not surprised by the results as theyre based on perceptions. India and Brazil have seen a lot of media attention on sexual violence in recent years, said Rebecca Reichmann Tavares, head of UN Women in India who also worked in Brazil. Sexual violence in both these cities is, of course, a reality, but there isnt any definitive data to suggest that rates are higher in Delhi and Sao Paulo than any other city. The survey asked 380 experts in cities with populations of more than one crore to assess the risk of sexual violence and harmful cultural practices to women. The Egyptian capital Cairo was rated the most dangerous city for women overall and rated third worst for sexual violence, followed by Mexico city and Dhaka. Tokyo was seen as the safest city for women in terms of sexual violence. There were 2,155 rapes recorded in Delhi in 2016, a rise of 67 per cent from 2012, according to police data. Sao Paulo had 2,287 rapes reported in July this year compared to 2,868 in all 2016, according to government figures, but Brazilian think-tank, the Institute of Applied Economic Research, estimates only 10 per cent of rape cases are reported. Authorities attribute the surge in numbers to more victims reporting crimes, rather than more sexual violence occurring. Activists say it is probably a combination of both. Campaigners said sex attacks were often not reported due to the dishonour associated with rape, as well as a lack of faith in a male-dominated, often insensitive police and judicial system. For too long, the perpetrators have acted with a sense of impunity. Certainty of punishment is the best deterrent, said Rishi Kant, a Supreme Court lawyer and activist from Shakti Vahini, a Delhi-based charity that supports victims. Reuters Kolkata, October 17 The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday stayed the withdrawal of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) from Darjeeling hills, the scene of unrest over the statehood demand, till October 27, in a relief to the West Bengal government. Hearing a plea by the state against the Centre's decision to withdraw CAPF from Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, a division bench of Justices Harish Tandon and Debangshu Basak ordered an interim stay. It asked the state government to move a regular bench of the high court when it reopens on October 23 after the Diwali holidays. Appearing for the state, Advocate General Kishore Dutta prayed for status quo on the deployment of the forces. Altogether 15 companies of CAPF are deployed in the area. He said the matter would be mentioned before the Chief Justice on the first PIL day after the court reopens. The PILs are generally heard on a Friday. He referred to the killing of a police officer a few days ago when Bimal Gurung-led Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters fired at the security forces hunting for him, to buttress the state government's claim about the need for continued deployment of CAPF. The high court had while hearing a PIL on July 14 directed the Centre to deploy four more companies of CAPF in addition to the 11 already present in the hills then. The advocate general submitted that as the deployment was made following an order of the high court which had also been endorsed by the Supreme Court the same day on another petition before it, the Centre cannot withdraw the forces unilaterally without the permission of the court. The vacation bench today directed the Centre to file an affidavit in response to the state government's plea by October 23. It asked the state government to file its reply to the Centre's affidavit by October 26. The West Bengal government had written to the Centre seeking extended deployment of CAPF till December 25, but was told that out of the 15 companies present, 10 would be withdrawn on October 15 and the rest by October 20. The state was later informed by the Centre that three companies of women CRPF personnel out of the 10 proposed to be withdrawn on October 15 would stay there till October 20, he said. Dutta said the state government was making efforts to restore normalcy in the Darjeeling hills and that the withdrawal of forces at this juncture would seriously hinder the process. Noting that the Centre's resources were limited, its counsel submitted that the forces were required for deployment in different parts of the country for other commitments including elections in some states. Bipul Kundalia, counsel for the central government, claimed that the situation in Darjeeling hills had improved compared to what it was in July when the order on deployment of paramilitary contingents had been passed by the high court. Noting that only the Himachal Pradesh Assembly election has been announced, the court told the Centre that it should have reasonable grounds for withdrawal of the forces. When asked by the court about the Centre's assessment of the situation, Kundalia said it was for the state government to evaluate it. PTI Manas Dasgupta Ahmedabad, October 16 Prime Minister Narendra Modi today dared the Congress to contest the Gujarat Assembly elections on the issue of development, while regretting the degeneration of the countrys oldest party to the level of negativism to mislead people with communal and castiest politics. Addressing BJP workers at the culmination of the two-leg 15-day Gujarat Gaurav Yatra, Modi attacked the Congress for its alleged anti-Gujarat policies right from the inception of the state and said the only mission of the Congressmen was to protect and promote interests of the Nehru-Gandhi family. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) He termed the upcoming Gujarat elections a contest between the BJPs policy of development and the Congress protection of the Gandhi family. Development will win hands down, he said. To blunt the Congress criticism of GST and demonetisation, Modi said the GST was the policy of all parties and all state governments. If anyone is facing any problem for its implementation, the Congress is equally responsible. Claiming that demonetisation had started showing success, Modi said even when the digging was still on about the black money of the 2.1 lakh-odd fictitious companies, it had already laid its hands on Rs 4,000 crore stashed by 5,000 shell companies. He also ridiculed the Congress plan to observe November 8, the first anniversary of demonetisation, as black money day when the BJP had planned to celebrate the day as black money eradication day. Modi said subsequent Congress governments in Delhi had done injustice to Gujarat. Sardar Patel, Morarji Desai, former Janata Dal CM Babubhai Jashbhai Patel and many others were denied legitimate dues just because they hailed from Gujarat. Former Congress CM Madhavsinh Solanki was among those who suffered injustice at the hands of the first Congress family, he said. He said Solanki was forced to resign as the External Affairs Minister only to protect then PM Rajiv Gandhi. During his last visit to the state, Modi had ridiculed Solanki for taking credit for inaugurating a mere water tank in Jamnagar and criticised his narrow and limited vision for development. Modi said the BJPs winning spree had unnerved the Congress, which lost its capacity to think positively and degenerated into politics of lies and negativism to mislead people. To woo the trading community, Modi said the Centre would not harass them for suspected tax evasions in the past if they registered themselves in the Goods and Services Tax regime. Rahul weather report: JUMLON KI BAARISH New Delhi: Rhetoric will rain down on Gujarat, Congress vice- president Rahul Gandhi said in a weather report ahead of PM Narendra Modis visit to his home state. Weather report: Ahead of elections, Gujarat will today have rain of rhetoric, he said on Twitter, using the phrase jumlon ki baarish in his Hindi tweet. PTI Lahore, October 17 The Pakistan government today sought the extension of Mumbai attack mastermind and JuD chief Hafiz Saeeds detention under the public safety law, two days after withdrawing its application to prolong his house arrest under the anti-terrorism law. The Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) head, who has been under house arrest since January, was presented before a three-member Punjab provincial judicial review board amid high security. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) The Judicial Review Board comprising Justice Yawar Ali, Justice Abdul Sami and Justice Alia Neelam heard arguments of a law officer of the Punjab Home Department for the extension of detention of Saeed and his four close aides Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain. Their detention period is scheduled to expire on October 24. Under the law, the government can detain a person for up to three months under various charges. It can extend the detention only after the approval from the judicial review board. The Lahore police had tightened security around the Lahore HC building where Saeed and others were presented before the board. The board, after hearing the law officer, issued notices to Advocate General Punjab and foreign and interior secretaries to appear before it on October 19 to tell as to why the government wants extension to Saeeds house arrest. On last Saturday, the Punjab Home Department had withdrawn its request from federal board to seek the extension to Saeeds detention under anti-terrorism act. PTI Declare Pak pro-terror state: US Congman Nikhil Bhardwaj Tribune News Service Ludhiana, October 17 Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) leader Ravinder Gosain, 58, was today shot dead outside his house in Gagandeep Colony by two masked men on a bike at 7.30 am. The police found two empty cartridges at the site. Police sources said it was likely that the shots were fired from two weapons as the empty cartridges were of .30 bore and .32 bore pistols. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) Following Intelligence inputs, the Punjab Police had issued an alert to local Hindu leaders and also held a meeting with them. This is the second major killing in Ludhiana in three months. In July, pastor Sultan Masih was murdered outside a church in Salem Tabri. The police have been unable to solve the murders of RSS leader Jagdish Gagneja, Shiv Sena leader Durga Gupta, pastor Masih and two dera followers in the past two years. Ravinder was mukhya shikshak (headteacher) at an RSS shakha and BJPs RTI coordinator in Ludhiana. The deceaseds daughter-in-law, Pooja, an eyewitness to the crime, said: My father-in-law came home at 7.20 am. My son Dikshit (7) and daughter Dikshita (4) asked him to buy them pencils from a nearby shop. As he stepped out of the house, carrying Dikshita in his lap and Dikshit standing next to him, two men on a yellow motorcycle opened fire. He was hit in the back and near his eye. My husband, who rushed out, tried to chase the assailants, but in vain. Dikshita fell on the ground and escaped unharmed. They asked grandfather to turn around and killed him, the little girl kept repeating. CCTV footage showed the two suspects riding a Honda Stunner. The police said the number plate was fake (PB37 7221). The suspects were spotted roaming in the area at 6.20 am, probably for a recce. Another CCTV footage showed three men on a black bike, one wearing a helmet and the faces of the two on the pillion covered with a cloth. Yash Giri, RSS general secretary, Ludhiana and Khanna zone, pointed out that the police were yet to trace RSS leader Gagnejas killers. Police Commissioner RN Dhoke has formed a special investigation team under the DCP-Crime to crack the case. We have certain clues. The culprits will be behind bars soon, Dhoke claimed. Shahira Naim Tribune News Service Lucknow, October 17 A day after BJP MLA Sangeet Som called Taj Mahal a blot on Indian culture built by traitors, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath tried to control some damage on Tuesday. Yogi, who sources said was displeased with Soms remarks and reportedly called him to give an explanation, today said: Yeh mahatva nahi rakhta ke kisney aur kin karano se iska nirmal karaya. Yeh Bhartiye mazdooron ke khoon aur paseene se banaya gaya hai. Taj Mahal hamarey liye behad mahatwapurn hai. Khaas taur par tourism ke nazariye se yeh zyada mahatva rakhta hai... Wahan paryatakon ke liye suvidhayen aur suraksha muhaiya karane ki zimmedari hamari hai (It is not important who built the Taj Mahal or why it was built. It was built by the hard work and sweat of Indian labourers. Taj Mahal is very important for us, especially from the tourism point of view. Providing tourist facilities and ensuring their security is our responsibility). He said the historic monument was a significant tourist attraction and also announced that he would visit Agra on October 26. Tourism Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi described Soms views about the Taj Mahal as his individual opinion. She said her government had already sanctioned Rs 155 crore for the Taj and the development of parks and various facilities in and around the monument. Avanish Awasthi, principal secretary of tourism and information, said the CM was scheduled to visit the Taj and Agra fort and review tourism and other schemes for Agras development on October 26. On Soma remark, All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Parliamentarian Asaduddin Owaisi said the same traitors a word Som used in his speech had also built Red Fort where Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the Tiranga (Tricolour) on Independence Day. In a series of tweets Owaisi had asked: Can Modi and Yogi tell domestic and foreign tourists not to visit Taj Mahal? Even Hyderabad House in Delhi was built by traitor. Will Modi stop hosting foreign dignitaries? Samajwadi Party leader Mohd Azam Khan had also mockingly asked the state government to demolish the Taj as well as Parliament and Rashtrapati Bhavan, as they all were built by imperialist rulers. Speaking at a public meeting in Sisauli village of Meerut, Som had questioned Taj Mahals place in Indian history and called it a blot on Indian culture. According to Som, the person who built the Taj Mahal had imprisoned his father and had targeted the Hindus of UP and India. Demolish Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament I have always held the view that all symbols of slavery should be erased. Why only Taj Mahal? Why not Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutub Minar and Red Fort? These are all symbols of slavery. Azam Khan, Samajwadi Party Gen Secy Can Modi, Yogi keep tourists away? Can Modi and Yogi tell domestic and foreign tourists not to visit Taj Mahal? Even Hyderabad House in Delhi was built by 'traitors'. Will Modi stop hosting foreign dignitaries? Asaduddin Owaisi, AIMIM Parliamentarian Thiruvananthapuram, October 17 BJP president Amit Shah on Tuesday hit out at Keralas CPI(M)-led LDF over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsibility for the killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers. Shah also took a swipe at the Congress, saying the party was finished in the country due to alleged corruption and family rule. Shah was addressing a massive rally of party workers at the conclusion of the BJPs 15-day long Jana Raksha Yatra here, organised to highlight the Lefts atrocities under the CPI(M)-led LDF rule. I am asking Kerala Chief Minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsibility for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power (in May 2016), said Shah, who took part in the padayatra for a distance of about two km along with state president Kummanam Rajasekharan. CM saheb, if you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology, he said. In a short period of time, people of Kerala also will throw away CPI(M) from the state, for its politics of violence, the BJP chief said. Not sparing the Congress, the main opposition in the state, he said the party was finished in the country due to corruption and family rule. Slamming Vijayan, Shah asked the chief minister whether the mandate given by people was to eliminate innocent BJP-RSS workers. Stating that attacks against BJP-RSS workers had increased whenever the marxist party came to power in Kerala, Shah said 30 party workers were killed during LDF rule between 1996-2001 and 28 workers during 2006-11. Now when it came to power in 2016, in the short period of one-and-half years, 13 RSS-BJP activists have been killed by CPI-M workers, he said. The BJP leader assured the families of the victims of attacks, allegedly by the CPI(M), that all the accused would be brought to book and the party would always be with the families. If the marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of Independence, they are mistaken, he said. Shah made it clear that BJPs ideology and its growth in the state cannot be stopped with violence. He said the yatra was aimed at creating awareness about the communist sponsored violence and brutality against BJP-RSS workers in the state. Shah said it was shameful on the part of the chief minister to appoint a CPI-M party worker, accused in a case connected with the killing of a BJP worker, as party block secretary. This is the first time in the country that a padayatra that covered 140 km, touching 11 districts, has been taken out against political violence, he said. Not sparing the Congress leaders in Kerala, Shah said former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and some of his colleagues were smeared in solar scam. However, he alleged that the chief minister was delaying action against the accused even though the judicial commission, set up to probe the scam, had submitted its report. Shah also said the government at the Centre led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi never discriminated states on the basis of political affiliations in sanctioning funds. While the 13th Finance Commission during UPA-1 sanctioned Rs 45,395 crore for the state, the 14th Finance Commission of Modi government sanctioned Rs 1.13 lakh crore, Shah said. PTI Our Correspondent Ferozepur, October 17 Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh said today that Hussainiwala would be developed as an eco-tourism hub, for which he announced a special grant of Rs 1 crore. The CM demanded the acquisition of land beyond the border fence by the Centre, saying that it was not being optimally used for agriculture due to security restrictions imposed by the BSF. Till these pieces of land are acquired, the farmers should be compensated for the loss of livelihood, he added. He said the state government was mulling a special package for the development of border districts Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur and Fazilka. He sought the Centres support for the states development programmes, to which Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh promised all possible help. The CM sought liberal compensation from the Centre for land damaged and rendered unfit for farming due to military deployment. He reiterated the states demand for similar tax incentives and promotion schemes for the region as were being given to the hill and north-eastern regions. The border roads of this area should be taken up for special development and maintenance under the National Highway Programme Capt Amarinder said, adding that this would provide better access to the defence forces in securing the border and ensure greater connectivity for the regions development. Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 17 The Punjab Government today gave appointment letters to 254 junior engineers (JEs) of the Irrigation Department as a Diwali gift. Irrigation and Power Minister Rana Gurjit Singh said here today that the approval to appoint these 254 JEs in the Irrigation Department was given today in a hurry on the instructions of Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh to ensure a happy Diwali for all these young people. He added that the government was committed to fill all desired vacancies of the Irrigation Department on priority, besides upgrading its infrastructure to increase its efficiency. Reiterating the commitment of providing employment opportunities to the youth, Rana Gurjit Singh said the state government under the leadership of Capt Amarinder Singh was fully committed to fulfil every commitment made during the Vidhan Sabha elections. Chandigarh, October 17 Leader of the Opposition Sukhpal Khaira today reiterated his demand for a CBI inquiry into Rana Gurjit Singhs alleged role in the sand mining auctions, adding that the minister should be dropped from the Cabinet. I was appalled to hear Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Sings lame defence of the tainted minister that theres nothing wrong in taking a loan from someone. Its not about taking a mere loan. The minister pumped whopping Rs4.52 crore to bag the auction, he said. TNS Jupinderjit Singh Tribune News Service Chandigarh, October 17 The police believe that the fourth attack on the RSS in the past more than one-and-a-half years points to a pattern to single out the Hindu organisation. It is too much of a coincidence, though the police are probing a personal angle to each attack, a senior officer said. Ravinder Gosain was killed on the day Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh visited the state. This means the assailants want to give out a message, a senior officer said. In January 2016, Naresh Kumar, an RSS leader, was injured in an attack in Ludhiana, while an RSS shakha in Ludhianas Kidwai Nagar came under attack a few days later. In both cases, two motorcycle-borne youths had fired the shots. In August 2016, Brig VK Gagneja (retd), vice-president of the RSS Punjab unit, was gunned down in Jalandhar. The police suspect the role of Sikh terror groups for the four attacks, but they have failed to identify or pinpoint any of them. We have reasons to believe that such groups are upset with RSS activities. The RSS doesnt recognise Sikhism as a separate religion. It continues to claim that Sikhs are still part of Hindus, a police officer said. The police believe the frequent visits of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to deras in 2014 had irked Sikh hardliners, he said. The number of RSS shakhas is about 900 now, while it was less than 600 before 2014. The police also cite recent photos on social media of full-bearded Sikhs shown in RSS attire. The photos carried a warning that these men posed as Sikhs and can bring a bad name to the community. No Sikh outfit has claimed responsibility for any of the four incidents so far. The police believe that weapons used in all four incidents were the same .32- bore and 9mm guns. The assailants, however, rode a different motorcycle in each case. The police suspect the role of two groups of attackers. In all three attacks in Ludhiana, the assailants sped away in narrow lanes of Basti Jodhewal region after the incident. Rajnath talks to Capt Amarinder Ferozepur: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday spoke to Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh about the Ludhiana murder during his visit to the Hussainiwala border. In a press release, former state BJP chief Kamal Sharma said Rajnath Singh told the CM to get the matter thoroughly investigated in a speedy manner. Capt Amarinder told Rajnath that the police had secured CCTV footage of the assailants, adding that the culprits would be arrested soon. OC Bid to spread anarchy in state: Sampla Jalandhar: Condemning the killing of RSS leader Ravinder Gosain, Union Minister of State and state BJP president Vijay Sampla said he had contacted Governor VP Singh Badnore, who has sought a report on the matter from the Home Department. Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, Sampla said: It seems as if the RSS has been targeted. It is also the handiwork of elements who want to spread anarchy and goondaism in the state. This ploy has become more prevalent in the past six-seven months, he said before heading for Ludhiana. He added that he would hold a meeting with top police officers in Chandigarh. Regarding the Khalistan Zindabad slogans written on the walls of gurdwaras in the Golden Temple complex, he said, This is an attempt to disturb communal harmony. The police should take strict action. TNS Tribune News Service Jalandhar, October 17 An NGO, Helping Hapless, run by Amanjot Kaur Ramoowalia today claimed to have helped in the rescue of a Jalandhar-based woman, Bachno (40), from Saudi Arabia where she had been allegedly harassed while working as a domestic help. Bachno, wife of scrap dealer Chand Ram, said she had moved to Saudi Arabia in February 2016. I was working as a help with a Sheikhs family there who was a retired police officer. He had 16 children. They kept me well for the first three months and paid 1,000 Riyal per month. However, soon they started harassing me. They used to beat me and give me very little food. I wanted to return but my passport had been taken away so there was no way out, said the woman. The victim said she had been lured to Saudi Arabia by her friend, who too worked for another family there. I have three children and was working here too as domestic help to make both ends meet. But I got lured by my friends call and contacted a travel agent, Arman, who is based in Delhi. He told me to get in touch with Iram, his Jalandhar-based contact. They took Rs 1 lakh from me in lieu of a two-year contract. But when I came back, I just had 3,000 Riyal, in addition to a few purchases, including a laptop and make-up kits that I made after being freed. Unfortunately, even these belongings got stolen at the airport there, she said. Amanjot, who is the daughter of politician Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, said that kin of Bachno, who reside at Model House in Jalandhar, had contacted her to seek help for Bachno about two months back. We sought all her details and then contacted the embassy. We even kept External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in the loop. The victim was freed about 15 days back but required some time to come in her normal state to talk freely, she said. COMMENTING on the recent decision of the U.P. Government not to expand the jury system as recommended by the Legislative Council because the opinion of district officers was against the extension, the Hindu quotes the opinions of eminent judges who point out the advantages of the system of trial by jury in criminal cases. Mr. Justice C. Walsh of the Allahabad High Court repudiates the assertion sometimes made that in England the system of trial by jury is getting disfavour and says that "after 20 years continuous experience with English juries up to October 1915, I can say that there is not, and never has been, the slightest disposition to abolish or reduce them in criminal cases. In civil cases it is a different matter. No doubt in criminal case the judge sometimes differs from the verdict and says no. Dehradun, October 17 Employees of PITCUL, UPCL and UJVNL (state power undertakings) have called off their stir after the government decided to constitute a committee to look into their demand. The employees had threatened to go on a strike if their demand for removal of anomalies in the seventh Pay Commission was not met. On Monday, at a gate meeting the employees had declared their intention to go on a strike. In view of the proposed strike by the employees of these state government undertakings, the government had evoked ESMA, which seems to have forced the employees to come to the table for talks. At a meeting held today with the union leaders and senior officials, Secretary, Department of Power, said that a committee had been constituted that will present a proposal within a month to the Department of Finance for resolving the issue. Significantly, the Uttarakhand government had issued an order in September this year for implementation of the seventh Pay Commission recommendations for the employees of the three state government power undertakings. However, the employees were unhappy with the anomalies in the pay scale and demanded immediate resolution. The government has not resolved the anomalies in our pay scales, said AK Mishra, general secretary of Uttaranchal Power Engineers Association. TNS Manila, October 17 Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared the southern city of Marawi liberated from pro-Islamic State militants on Tuesday, although the military said 20-30 rebels were holding about 20 hostages and still fighting it out. In a rousing address to soldiers a day after the killing of two commanders of the rebel alliance, Duterte said he would never again allow militants to stockpile so many weapons, but Marawi was now free and it was time to heal wounds and rebuild. I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from terrorist influence, that marks the beginning of rehabilitation, Duterte, wearing a camouflage cap and dark sunglasses, said during his unannounced visit. Isnilon Hapilon, who was wanted by the United States and was Islamic States Southeast Asian emir, and Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers central to the alliance, were killed in a targeted operation on Monday. Their bodies were recovered and identified. Duterte said the liberation was not a cause for celebration and later apologised to the people of Marawi for the destruction. Armed forces chief Eduardo Ano said the remaining gunmen were now a law enforcement matter, while military spokesman Restituto Padilla described them as stragglers. Padilla said the military believed Malaysian operative Mahmud Ahmad was in Marawi, but it could not be certain. He said Mahmud was no threat. Dr. Mahmud is an academic, hes not a fighter, Padilla said. We dont feel he is a problem. Reuters Kabul, October 17 Taliban militants struck government targets in many provinces of Afghanistan on Tuesday, killing at least 69 persons, including a senior police commander, and wounding scores of others. The deadliest attack hit a police training centre attached to the police headquarters in Gardez, main city of Paktia province. Two Taliban suicide car bombers paved the way for a number of gunmen to attack the compound, officials and militants said. At least 21 police officers were killed, including the Paktia provincial police chief, with 48 others wounded, according to government officials. The attack also left at least 20 civilans dead and 110 wounded, the Interior Ministry said. Security forces killed at least five attackers. Dozens of dead and wounded were taken to the city hospital, even as many more lay where they fell during the fighting, deputy public health director Hedayatullah Hameedi said. The Taliban claimed responsibility. The militant group also attacked a district centre in neighbouring Ghazni province on Tuesday, detonating an armoured Humvee vehicles packed with explosives near the provincial governors office. At least 15 government security forces were killed and 12 wounded in the Ghazni attacks, with 13 civilians killed and seven wounded. Reuters Washington, October 17 US President Donald Trump has reiterated the need to end chain migration, which he said is essential towards creating a system that prefers Americans over foreign workers. Trump said this is part of his immigration proposals sent to the Congress last week, which he said closes dangerous loopholes that enabled illegal immigration, and visa overstay. Nobody knows the numbers about visa overstays. They are so out of control. We are going to take care of that, he said in his Cabinet meeting at the White House. Briefing his Cabinet colleagues on immigration, Trump said he has asked Congress to ensure that any proposed immigration reform ends chain migration. Once a person comes then brings everybody in the family. We have to end this chain which is critical for creating a system that prefers American workers and American taxpayers first, said the US president. Trump last week proposed a merit-based immigration system that could benefit highly-skilled Indian workers but prevents them from sponsoring their extended families. Trump also reiterated his resolve to build the wall on the border with Mexico. PTI GENEVA, October 17 The UN refugee agency urged Bangladesh on Tuesday to speed up vetting of up to 15,000 Rohingya refugees "stranded" near the border after crossing into the country from Myanmar and move them further inland to safer and better conditions. Some 582,000 Rohingya are now known to have fled since violence erupted on Aug. 25 in northern Rakhine state, where they lack access to food and health care, UN officials said. "We are gravely concerned about humanitarian conditions in Bangladesh, where thousands of new arrivals are stranded near the border," UNHCR spokesman Andrej Mahecic told a Geneva news briefing. An estimated 10,000 to 15,000 have entered Bangladesh through the Anjuman Para border crossing point since Sunday night, many of who described walking for about a week to reach the border, he said. "We are advocating with the Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly difficult conditions back home. Every minute counts given the fragile condition they are arriving in," Mahecic said. The delay was due to screening by Bangladesh border guards, he said, emphasising this was the right of any government. UN aid agencies have not had access to the shrinking Rohingya population in northern Rakhine state since the August. 25 coordinated insurgent attacks on police posts and an army campaign that UN rights office has likened to "ethnic cleansing". Jens Laerke, spokesman of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said that Rohingya in Rakhine now faced a "desperate choice whether to stay or go", not only due to the violence but also humanitarian needs. "The lack of food, lack of health care and so on. So that is certainly a factor that is strongly in play as of now," he said. Nearly 60 per cent of the 582,000 refugees who have fled Myanmar since August 25 are children and thousands more are crossing each week, UNICEF spokeswoman Marixie Mercado said. UNICEF, which is providing clean water every day to 40,000 people in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, and has installed thousands of toilets, may have to stop operations by the end of November unless further funds are received, she said. A UN inter-agency appeal of $434 million for Rohingya in Bangladesh and host communities is only 24 per cent funded, OCHA's Laerke said. Reuters Not much about his home waters would surprise Carl Sumpter after his 78 years living near the fork of Curl and Fourmile creeks in the Caney River Basin. The 83-year-old has explored and found arrowheads along the creek since he was a boy and, in places, he said it really hasnt changed a lot over the years, although erosion of the high banks is a problem in the flood-prone lowlands. But his reaction on hearing Curl Creek is running cleaner these days was pretty typical of others who live along the banks of the aptly named winding creek. Is that right? he said. Well, I dont know about that. Is someone cleaning it up? The Oklahoma Conservation Commission recently lauded improvements along Curl Creek for creating a nonpoint source success story. It turns out that the little-known creek that barely fills a 24-inch culvert under a gravel road at its headwaters is like hundreds of others across the state, except it is one of a few dozen that is showing real improvement. In 2004, Curl Creek was named as one of many of the states impaired waters and listed under the Oklahoma Clean Water Act due to high levels of E. coli bacteria and turbidity due to erosion. We started monitoring it in 2002, and it had more E. coli than it should and was more turbid than it should be, as well, said Shanon Phillips, Conservation Commission water quality director. As time went by, those numbers started to drop off. The 17.27-mile stream flows south through Nowata and Washington counties southeast of Bartlesville, pretty close to the county line on either side, until it enters the Caney River a tributary that flows into the Verdigris River between Collinsville and Claremore. Land use in the 30,896-acre Curl Creek drainage area is more than 80 percent grasslands for beef cattle and hay production, according to the commission. Grazing and hay production contributed to the bacteria and turbidity. People havent heard about a cleanup effort because, like hundreds of other streams across the state, Curl Creek has benefited from dozens of small changes made by landowners throughout its drainage area, Phillips said. It just happened through a lot of people using improved land management practices, she said. About 800 streams are on the states watch lists for turbidity, mercury, low oxygen levels and other water quality issues. About 350 have issues with various forms of bacteria, Phillips said. We have about 60 of these streams where we have made real progress, she said. Top of the hill Nine hundred feet doesnt sound like a lot of elevation, but its the top of drainage for Curl Creek. Thats where Ed Caseys ranch surrounds the headwaters of Purgatory Creek, which flows into Curl Creek, just off his western property line. The relative newcomer to the land explained the view from the top of the hill over rolling grasslands and fingers of timber that mark valleys below. This particular ranch happens to be on something like a Continental Divide, but its a county divide, he said. Everything on this northwest side goes into Double Creek and to the Verdigris (River), and everything on the southwest goes into Curl Creek and the Caney River. The ConocoPhillips retiree brought his technical research background to the ranch he purchased six years ago. He doesnt claim to be a skilled cattleman, but his background gives him an appreciation for the science behind land management and how it benefits his cow-calf operation, he said. He volunteers as chairman of the Nowata County Soil Conservation District. The philosophy is straightforward from the top of his hill. If he does everything he can to make the water flow cleaner, then its better for the next person down the hill. If they do better, then the chain reaction works all the way down the stream, he said. In six years with improved land practices and some help from Mother Nature, he has doubled the carrying capacity of his pastures, he said. Thats how we believe Curl Creek has been helped and in recent years has been cleaning itself a little more every year, he said. There still is some bacteria and some turbidity, but its a much better creek today. Sometimes a farmer or rancher thinks there must be a better way and they seek help, and sometimes the catalyst comes from agencies that offer education and cost-sharing programs. Either way, the Nowata County and Caney Valley soil conservation districts, Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Conservation Commission usually are involved, he said. Philosophies have changed over the years, he said. Some things everyone thought were a good idea, we found out they werent the best things, he said. Whats happened is many of the ranch operators and the farmers in the drainage basin for Curl Creek have improved ranch practice and farming practice so we have less wind erosion, rainwater soil erosion and better soil health and vegetation, he said. On his 1,300 acres, Casey has built several ponds to hold and control water flow. He also built more fencing to enhance rotational grazing so his pasture grass is never less than about 6 inches tall. On one arm of Purgatory Creek, he worked with the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board to reclaim an oil tank battery site. On another, just upstream of Curl Creek, he is working with a construction company to fix a spot where a pond dam blew out years ago and bare ground washes away with every storm. The crew, working on U.S. 60 improvements, will bring in dirt and fill that it needs to remove for its project. The benefit to Caseys place is it will raise the ground level 8 to 10 feet and the company will cover that with topsoil. He stood in the canyon-like cut of the eroded, broken dam, and laid out an improved picture for the future. All of this will be filled and higher, well over our heads here, he said. There will be about a 3-acre impoundment and spillway that will put an end to the erosion, and there will be a few more acres here where my cattle can graze. The tourniquet tightened a little more on Tulsa social services agencies Monday as the Oklahoma Department of Health canceled contracts with Morton Comprehensive Health Services and the Parent Child Center of Tulsa. The cancellations were part of a larger move by the Health Department to trim $3 million from its budget. The department has already notified staff of furloughs and layoffs to cope with state governments financial straits. The Oklahoma Legislature is currently at a special session impasse over how to handle a $215 million shortfall created when the state Supreme Court ruled a new cigarette fee unconstitutional. That loss of that money is expected to cause the loss of an additional $285 million in federal matching funds. The Health Department said Mondays reductions were not a direct result of the Legislatures inaction, but others said there seems to be an indirect correlation. The canceled Tulsa contracts are expected to total about $500,000, with the Parent Child Centers Parents as Teachers program accounting for most of that. The program trains parents to better help their children learn, beginning at an early age. The Parent Child Center did not comment Monday on the state funding loss. Morton Executive Director Susan Savage said the systems clinics will probably lose less than $100,000 in uncompensated care reimbursements, but only because the payments have already almost dried up. Just a few years ago, Savage said, Morton received $1 million in uncompensated care reimbursements. Morton provides medical services to a mostly low-income clientele with minimal health insurance. I recommended to my board a year ago that any uncompensated reimbursements we get be put aside, she said. Savage, a former Tulsa mayor, said Mondays announcement was just the latest in a series of state and federal decisions that make it harder for agencies like hers to function. Were all competing for a piece of a pie that keeps getting smaller, she said. One of the star witnesses in former Tulsa Police Officer Shannon Keplers murder trial told a judge through tears Monday afternoon that he could not continue his testimony, halting proceedings for the day, after saying angrily that Keplers attorneys cross-examination thus far had consisted entirely of bulls---- questions. Josh Mills took the stand in Keplers first-degree murder case for the first time and described how 19-year-old Jeremey Lake, his friend of about six months, had been shot outside Lakes aunts home in the 200 block of North Maybelle Avenue on Aug. 5, 2014. Kepler, 57, has been tried on the first-degree murder charge in November, February and July, but each of the earlier trials resulted in hung juries. Kepler claimed that he shot Lake in self-defense. Mills, who court records indicate is transient, had not been successfully served with a subpoena before Keplers earlier trials. His cross-examination is expected to continue Tuesday morning in a trial that began Oct. 9. Mills, who had been staying with Lake at the aunts house for about a week when the shooting occurred, testified Monday that he was sitting on the front porch with Lakes brother, Michael Hamilton, when the shots rang out roughly 20 feet away from them shortly after 9 p.m. Mills, according to his testimony, was the first person who ran to Lake after he fell to the ground. He was soon followed by Lakes mother, as well as several of their neighbors, and said he learned from Keplers estranged daughter, Lisa Kepler, that her father was the shooter. Lisa Kepler had met Lake at the nearby Day Center for the Homeless after being taken there by her parents amid issues at home. Lake eventually invited her to move in with him and his family, and the two began a short-lived romantic relationship. She didnt know what happened or why it happened, Mills said. All she said was, My dad just shot Jeremey Lake. Lisa Kepler and Hamilton are set to testify Tuesday. In the final exchange of the afternoon, lead defense attorney Richard OCarroll asked Mills whether Lake had asked him on the night of his death to borrow a 9-millimeter semiautomatic with a slide so they could give payback to a person with whom OCarroll alleged Lake had drug-related conflicts. Shannon Kepler has testified in his previous trials that he saw Lake with such a gun, but no other witness has told any jury they saw a firearm on or near Lake on the night he died. District Judge Sharon Holmes has not allowed Keplers attorneys to refer to K2 synthetic marijuana or a gun police found in a trash can at the Detective Division the next day because no evidence ties them to Keplers case. A sample of Lakes blood tested earlier this year came up negative for multiple types of synthetic marijuana, according to documents filed by the state last month. Ive never even owned a gun, Mills said, beginning to cry. Why dont you stop these bulls--- questions and ask me real questions? Soon after making that statement, Mills told Holmes, I cant do this, which prompted the judge to adjourn proceedings for the rest of the day. Four of Lakes neighbors also testified Monday, each expressing how surprised they were to see that Lake had been killed in such a manner. OCarroll has implied that someone took a gun off Lakes body and somehow disposed of it before on-duty police officers arrived. He suggested Monday that none of the neighbors who testified were outside in time to see the gun taken from the scene or that they were not paying full attention to their surroundings during the chaotic time. Prosecutors have countered that Kepler who has the most to lose is the only person who has made any reference to Lakes having a firearm. Mills, as well as all four neighbors, denied taking a gun from Lakes body. Neighbor Jack Scheving told District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler that he saw someone fire a gun and saw the muzzle flash from the firearm before the shooter got into a black SUV. He said he later told his girlfriend, Tera Shorter, that the person, whom he didnt see up close, just shot him in cold blood and that they needed to go help Lake. Shorter testified that she put pressure on Lakes wounds to try to stop the bleeding before returning to her front porch once authorities arrived. She said she heard shots and heard the screeching of tires that she believed originated from under the bridge near the shooting site. We were kinda just stunned (and) shocked, Shorter said. Lorretta Milligan, another of Lakes neighbors, said she and her husband, Phillip Milligan, also went to the scene after the shots were fired to try to save Lake. I couldnt believe it happened that close to my home, she said. Mills became visibly frustrated during cross-examination as he described how his mental health has been negatively affected by watching Lake, as well as another friend more recently, die of gunshot wounds. OCarroll started his questioning by inquiring about Mills currently being at a mental health facility, but Holmes barred him from obtaining such information in front of the jury. Holmes had questioned Mills briefly before his testimony after learning that he had been at a mental health facility within 24 hours of appearing in court, and she determined that he was a competent witness. Despite this, OCarroll attempted to ask Mills in front of the jury whether he had tried to commit suicide Sunday night, how often he has been in a facility for psychiatric reasons and whether he has ever overdosed on drugs. OCarroll also asked Mills a series of questions unrelated to the facts at issue in Keplers case. Among those questions were the amount of alcohol he drank in the past, whether he had previously been an alligator hunter and whether he ever shot a moose in Germany, the latter two of which Mills denied. I remember the event like it was yesterday, but all this bulls--- youre talking about no, I dont remember, Mills said in response to questions about comments OCarroll alleged he made about Lisa Keplers attire before the shooting occurred. Mills additionally denied claims that he attempted to extort Lakes surviving family for money in exchange for his testimony, saying his wife, not he, acted in a hostile manner toward them that led to the couples forced removal from the Maybelle Avenue home. Lakes aunt, Pam Wilkins, at one point filed a protective order against Mills based on those allegations, court records show. During his questioning of Scheving, OCarroll emphasized Schevings history of felony convictions for such offenses as marijuana sales and assault. The two talked over each other on several occasions as OCarroll accused Scheving who is on probation of trying to testify the right way to save himself from the possibility of additional incarceration. He also claimed that Scheving was a pothead who eventually became an informant, which Scheving denied. Scheving did not deny his history with the justice system but said he now wants to stay out of trouble. He said it was false to suggest that he was embellishing his testimony. Why should this jury believe you? OCarroll asked, to which Scheving responded, Why shouldnt they? Jurors are expected to receive the case for deliberations by Thursday afternoon. This Page Is Under Construction - Coming Soon! Why am I seeing this 'Under Construction' page? On a warm October evening in Geneva, Milly Lagu plays with ducks swimming by the shores of the River Rhone. She seems relaxed and unburdened, after a stressful ordeal during which she shared her story with an august gathering at the Palais des Nations. The leaves on the trees have taken on autumn hues. In places, dead ones are scattered on the ground along with fallen chestnuts. The streets are quiet but for the sound of cars, buses and trams taking people to different parts of the city. Pedestrians, cyclists and the occasional jogger crisscross the roads and sidewalks. It is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Kiryandongo, the refugee settlement in Uganda that Milly calls home. It is 2 October 2017. We are on our way to the 2017 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award ceremony where the winner, Mr. Zannah Mustapha, a lawyer, school-founder and peace-maker from north east Nigeria, will be honoured for his dedication and commitment to ensuring children and orphans affected by the conflict in Borno State can attend school. * * * Earlier in the day at the Palais des Nations, Milly sobbed uncontrollably, racked with emotion after reliving the harrowing experiences of the past four years. She had told a riveted audience, We, the women of South Sudan, feel abandoned. We wonder, what does the world think of us? We have committed no crime. Why should we experience this kind of suffering? UNHCR had convened a gathering in Geneva, Switzerland to discuss the needs of South Sudans displaced populations. Milly Lagu, was one of two refugees who participated, having travelled from her home in Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement in northern Uganda, to tell her story. On the podium were Mr. Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Arnauld Akodjenou, Regional Refugee Coordinator and UNHCR Special Advisor for the South Sudan Situation, Ambassador (Eng.) Mahboub Maalim, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development in Eastern Africa (IGAD), Hon. Hussein Mar Nyuot, Minister of Human Affairs and Disaster Management of South Sudan, Mr. Juerg Eglin, Strategy Adviser, Policy and Humanitarian Diplomacy Division, ICRC, Hon. Betty Achan Ogwaro, MP and Member of the Steering Committee of the National Dialogue, and Mr. Ger Duany, UNHCR Regional Goodwill Ambassador. Participants included delegates from different countries, including South Sudan and the countries hosting over two million South Sudanese refugees, like Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan and Uganda as well as UN and NGO officials. We, the women of South Sudan, feel abandoned. We wonder what the world thinks of us. We have committed no crime. Why should we experience this kind of suffering? Millys testimony revealed the dehumanizing realities that characterize the lives of most refugees. I am the four million South Sudanese in the video you just saw, she said, signaling that she was speaking for all the displaced people of her war torn country. I am the 80 per cent, she added, in reference to the disproportionately high ratio of South Sudanese women and children living as refugees in neighboring countries. In the formal setting in the airy conference room, the former nursery school teacher and first-time refugee created an aura of personal intimacy as she described fleeing Juba in December 2013, with her three young sons and the three daughters of a neighbor who had been killed. Her two older sons had fled earlier. The neighboring village was in flames, she said. I felt helpless. I was afraid. But I had to be strong, for the sake of my children. A Good Samaritan a truck driver returning to Uganda carried 30 of them (four mothers, with two older girls and 24 young children) to the border town of Nimule. They saw bodies of women, children and men lying lifeless in pools of blood. In Nimule Milly searched among the crowds for her missing sons. I was desperate, she said. I wanted to go back to Juba to look for them. I wondered, should I leave the younger ones behind. What about my neighbors daughters whose parents had been killed? Would I find them when I came back? Millys testimony brought home the trauma that bedevils South Sudanese refugees. Imagine having to make choices that could result in never seeing loved ones again and never knowing what became of them. Imagine the agony of searching through milling crowds of anguished people, seeing dead bodies and praying, just praying that their lives were spared in the violence. South Sudanese are slaughtering South Sudanese. South Sudanese are raping South Sudanese. South Sudanese are causing South Sudanese to scatter in neighboring countries as widows and orphans." Four agonizing days later, Milly found her sons alive and well in Nimule. They crossed the border together with other refugees in a truck carrying garbage from a nearby market. "It was filthy," she said. "But that did not matter. My children were safe, with me. The truck brought them to Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement in the dark of night. The reception centre was packed with people. Some slept on the bare ground. Children were crying. Somebody gave her a piece of soap so she and her children could wash. Then they, too, slept on the ground. Her youngest son, then eight, kept asking for his father. Five months later, in May 2014, they learned through a family friend that the boy's father, Milly's husband, had been killed in the conflict. After three days on the road, South Sudanese refugees arrive at the newly constructed Gure Shembola Camp in Ethiopia. UNHCR/Diana Diaz Husbands were killed, and women raped along with their daughters in the presence of their children. They carry the burden of shame, as if somehow they were responsible. Many think about suicide. Milly went on to describe a community in shreds, struggling with the trauma of war, death, destruction and flight. In the past four years, our lives have been all but destroyed, she said. Most of the refugee children have lost everyone. Many are orphans living with foster families; others have only a mother or grandparent to depend on. They saw their fathers killed. Their mothers and sisters were raped in their presence. Sometimes your child brings another child home from school. They are alone. They have no one. As a mother, you share what you have. You cannot abandon such a child. They have nowhere to go. That is the suffering of South Sudanese children. Milly lamented the situation of young refugees, especially males between the ages of 13 and 20. "They drink alcohol and take drugs to forget traumatic experiences. It is painful to see them drunk. They have lost all hope in the future, she said. Her two older boys are no longer in school. She cannot afford the fees. They try to earn income doing odd jobs, like slashing grass or digging farms. The room was silent except for the sound of Milly's trembling voice coming through the speakers. I cannot tell you how many women have been raped time and again," she said slowly. "Their husbands were killed. They were raped along with their daughters in the presence of their children. Now they carry the burden of shame, as if somehow they were responsible. Many think about suicide. We are tired. Enough is enough! We want peace! She stopped to compose herself, then continued with unmistakable difficulty. We comfort each other," she said. We try to take away the shame, to remind each other that our children still need us. If we die, who will take care of them? We pray that God will take us home. Milly was choking back tears. I ask myself what kind of society we will have in ten years? South Sudanese are slaughtering South Sudanese. South Sudanese are raping South Sudanese. South Sudanese are causing South Sudanese to scatter in neighboring countries as widows and orphans." She paused. "Unless it stops, we will be a society of the uneducated. A society that knows only the culture of violence. Millys voice broke. We are tired, she said. Enough is enough! We want peace! Her final words of appreciation were almost unintelligible. "We are grateful for the kindness of countries that received us openly," she said. "We are grateful to the communities that have shared their resources with us. We are grateful to UNHCR, the international community and all those who support the people of South Sudan." Milly had spoken for the four million displaced South Sudanese and for the 80 per cent of women and children now living in exile in neighbouring countries. Her testimony coincidentally brought to the fore the imperative of a nexus between urgent humanitarian and development engagement and strong political will to end the conflict and bring sustainable peace and dignity to South Sudans displaced millions. It was the panelists turn to speak. The High Commissioner was visibly troubled. Millys narrative had struck a cord. Filippo Grandi said that her story told of extraordinary failure, like the staggering figures of displaced people within and outside South Sudan, the extreme violence of the conflict and the overwhelming burden on civilians. He characterized as grim the absence of hope in the protection-of-civilian sites he visited in South Sudan. He commended refugee-hosting countries, and cautioned that their support cannot be taken for granted. He noted that the numbers of South Sudanese refugees had almost doubled during the past year while the 2017 inter-agency appeal was funded only at 25 per cent of requirements. He appealed for the Government of South Sudan to pursue peace and called on regional states to work with both the Government and the Opposition for an inclusive peace process. "I dread that if peace initiatives are not pursued, in one year's time the refugee numbers could double, and that would be catastrophic," he said. On behalf of the Government of South Sudan, Hon. Hussein Mar Nyuot said, "Peace is vital in addressing the challenges in our country." He stated that the Government is committed to the revitalization of the 2015 Peace Agreement, is working with IGAD, and welcomes the Regional Protection Force in the interest of peace. He pledged that the Government would provide unhindered humanitarian access and protect humanitarian workers. He cited the proliferation of weapons as a major cause of insecurity, and described grassroots peace initiatives targeting various fighting groups. The Minister noted that the economy is not doing well. Ambassador (Eng.) Mahboub Maalim took his turn shaking his head, thrown "off-balance after hearing Ms. Lagu speak" (his words). For emphasis, he repeated the words her words that had shaken him to the core. If we die, who will take care of our children? He said her account reminded him of the "worst situation" he had ever witnessed in South Sudan, when the stench of rotting flesh and the velocity of vultures swooping down for carrion and returning to the skies with equal force made an indelible impression on him. Ambassador Mahboub addressed Milly directly, seeking to assure her that accountability was a priority for IGAD, that the deployment of a regional protection force would create buffers between warring factions, and that his organization would spare no effort in bringing hope to the people of South Sudan through the operationalization of the peace agreement. "Inclusivity must be taken into account," he said. "The Opposition has to be included for peace to be realized." Mr. Juerg Eglin called for attention to be directed towards internally displaced populations, whose plight is also dramatic, as well as host communities. He cited historical factors like decades of civil strife, displacement and weak government structures that contributed to the current state of affairs. "Solutions cannot come from humanitarians, but from the political leadership," he said, and expressed the hope that humanitarian agencies will be given the space to work. Hon. Betty Ogwaro described the vision and aspirations of the National Dialogue, which is being conducted in three stages: grassroot consultations including in refugee camps, preparations and a regional conference involving all states of South Sudan. She said significant strides had been made including outreach to the Opposition. She added that the National Dialogue is not competing with the 2015 Peace Agreement, and rather is complementary, while hoping that the Peace Agreement will lead to a cessation of hostilities. She appealed for support for the National Dialogue as a homegrown process which cannot succeed without the international community. Ger Duany, a South Sudanese-US national, was visibly perturbed. Having been a war child and refugee, and with family members currently living in refugee camps and internally displacement sites, he could relate precisely to Milly's pain. "I hope there's a shred of humanity left in South Sudan," he said. He recalled his own suffering as a war child and refugee. He thanked the community of East African nations for hosting South Sudanese refugees, and appealed to them to help the world's youngest nation find peace. "With so many of us displaced, what have we left?" he asked. "We won't get it done through firearms. Let us negotiate inclusive peace, and leave no one behind." "The suffering of South Sudanese civilians should shame us all into saying 'Enough is Enough.' Delegations representing countries hosting South Sudanese refugees spoke in turn, highlighting critical concerns like the surging numbers of refugees and the strain on existing resources, environmental degradation, reductions in food rations, the negative impact of chronic underfunding of refugee programmes as well as their own efforts to promote refugee self-reliance. Arnauld Akodjenou, the moderator, closed the meeting with an unequivocal plea. War can no longer continue to be 'normal' for South Sudans people. They have suffered long enough." He said the shattered trust between communities and households can be rebuilt provided that in their heart of hearts the men, women and children of Africa's newest country act in good faith to restore peace with the support of the international community. "The suffering of South Sudanese civilians should shame us all into saying 'Enough is Enough' and compel us to recover this country from the brink of total destruction," he said. "At stake is no less than the very existence of a country that must supported to bring itself back together if it is to survive. Milly travelled over 6,000 kilometres from Uganda to address a panel that was gathered in Geneva to discuss the needs of South Sudan's displaced populations. UNHCR/T.Ongaro This experience has given me hope that something positive will happen for us, as mothers and women whose children are suffering, if not now then later." The following day, Milly was upbeat as she reflected on her experience in Geneva. At last, our prayers have been heard by the people who care she said. I was nervous as I walked through the corridors of the Palais des Nations, and when I saw the place tags on the high table in conference room. These were big people, like the High Commissioner. Poor, simple woman that I am, in this important meeting with high delegations! I had expected to speak standing, to show my respect for them. Then I saw that I was going to sit like everybody else. I felt valued. I noticed that the moderator of the meeting, was paying special attention to us. I saw that the panel was listening attentively. Sometimes I wanted to burst into tears. I had flashbacks. I was also moved by the respect, the platform to share our story, the human heart and the kindness that was showed to me. When we came back to the UNHCR office, people greeted me. At the reception after the Nansen Award Ceremony, people hugged me. They remembered me. All of this has given me hope that something positive will happen for us, as mothers and women whose children are suffering, if not now then later. I know our children will be helped, because the message has reached. Our children will be safe. They will get freedom from being refugees. Milly Lagu broke into a smile as she contemplated returning to Uganda, the country she currently calls home, to be reunited with her children once again. * * * Shortly after playing with the ducks in Geneva, Milly entered a realm where the tribulations of forced displacement took on a universal aura. In a packed auditorium she sat spellbound listening to Nujeen Mustafa, the girl who escaped from a Syrian war zone in a wheelchair, tell her story. Nujeen was born with cerebral palsy and had spent most of her life in an Aleppo apartment until she made the 3,500 mile journey to Germany as a refugee. Milly also witnessed the High Commissioner, Filippo Grandi, honor Nigerian Zannah Mustapha with the 2017 Nansen Refugee Award for founding a school in Maiduguri, the epicenter of the Boko Haram insurgency. That evening, her struggles and her courage as a woman, mother and refugee leader, and her quest to restore refugees dignity took on a deeper meaning as she saw the situation of her country, South Sudan, juxtaposed with those of Burundi, Chad, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, Nigeria, Syria, Yemen and many other countries. Apologies, it seems we cant find what you were looking for. The content has either moved or no longer exists. Maybe try a search UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi walks past badly damaged buildings in the Karm Al-Myassar neighbourhood in eastern Aleppo during a visit in February 2017. UNHCR/Bassam Diab After more than six years of one of the deadliest, most destructive conflicts in recent history, the Syrian people are understandably desperate to find some light at the end of what has been a long, dark tunnel. Over the past year, fragile ceasefires have restored calm to some parts of the country, persuading large numbers of people displaced inside Syria and much smaller numbers of refugees to return home. And yet, in other parts of the country, the conflict is far from over and the suffering of civilians has actually increased. Military operations against extremist groups in Raqqa and Deir Ezzor continue and a multitude of armed groups are still active. Much of the country is littered with mines and explosive hazards, waiting to maim or kill their next victim. In the first half of 2017 alone, 1.3 million Syrians were newly displaced, an average of 7,000 people per day forced to flee their homes. While the international community is justifiably focused on the future of the peace process, the humanitarian situation inside Syria remains dire and conditions are not in place for the more than five million Syrians living as refugees in neighbouring countries to return home. A resident of Al-Mashatiyeh neighbourhood in east Aleppo talks to UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi. She fled her home when the battle for eastern parts of the city erupted, but has since returned. UNHCR/Bassam Diab This continues to be the worlds largest refugee crisis and it cannot be shouldered by neighbouring countries alone. Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq and Egypt have welcomed and continue to support millions of Syrian refugees. They have shared their resources and provided access to their schools, hospitals and other services on a scale rarely seen before. But after six years of the crisis in Syria, these countries are understandably tired. The international community has contributed substantial financial support to the Syrian refugee response, but it is still falling well short of the actual humanitarian needs. I am deeply worried that only 49 per cent of the funds required for refugee programmes in host countries has been received so far in 2017. Funding commitments made in London in 2016 and repeated earlier this year in Brussels, were prompted by the refugee crisis that reached Europes shores in 2015 and 2016. As the visibility of that crisis recedes, Im concerned that those commitments are being forgotten and neglected. I welcome the announcement that the EU will host another funding conference in Brussels next spring, but in the meantime, there is an urgent need to ensure that programmes to support refugees in host countries are better funded. Both host countries and the refugees they shelter need and deserve predictability. For several years, the regional refugee and resilience plan has been combining efforts to address the basic needs of refugees with longer-term interventions aimed at building their resilience through access to livelihoods, education and services. Its an innovative approach that, given time to come to fruition, can benefit refugees and their host countries. But without continued support from international donors, progress in implementing the plan risks stalling and the investments that have already been made will be wasted. Both host countries and the refugees they shelter need and deserve predictability. Host countries need reassurances that pledges of financial support from the international community will be respected. Syrian refugees need to know that they will be assisted and protected not just this month, but for the foreseeable future. The international community has a responsibility to spare no effort in bringing peace and stability to Syria so that conditions for voluntary, sustainable returns can be created. Meanwhile, it is critical that we all stay the course and support host governments by continuing to invest in refugee and host community programs, sharing responsibilities with those countries on the front-line. This op-ed first appeared in The National on 16 October 2017. A Rohingya family wades through water crossing the border from Myanmar into Bangladesh. UNHCR/Roger Arnold Mr. Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Mr. Mark Lowcock, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Mr. William Lacy Swing, Director General, International Organization for Migration UN Principals call for solidarity with Rohingya refugees (16 October 2017, Geneva/New York): After violence broke out in Myanmars Rakhine state on 25 August, more than 500,000 Rohingya refugees crossed into neighbouring Bangladesh in less than five weeks. Tens of thousands of refugees have arrived since, fleeing discrimination, violence and persecution, as well as isolation and fear. The speed and scale of the influx made it the worlds fastest growing refugee crisis and a major humanitarian emergency. The Government of Bangladesh, local charities and volunteers, the UN and NGOs are working in overdrive to provide assistance. But much more is urgently needed. The efforts must be scaled up and expanded to receive and protect refugees and ensure they are provided with basic shelter and acceptable living conditions. Every day more vulnerable people arrive with very little -- if anything and settle either in overcrowded existing camps or extremely congested makeshift sites. They are fully dependent on humanitarian assistance for food, water, health and other essential needs. Basic services are under severe strain. In some sites, there is no access to potable water, and sanitation facilities are absent, raising health risks for both the refugees and the communities hosting them. Bangladesh has kept its borders open, offering safety and shelter to fleeing families. We have been moved by the welcome and generosity shown by the local communities towards the refugees. Now a critical Pledging Conference in Geneva on 23 October 2017 is being organized by OCHA, IOM and UNHCR and co-hosted by the European Union and Kuwait. It provides Governments from around the world an opportunity to show their solidarity and share the burden and responsibility. Their further generous support for the Joint Response Plan, which was recently launched by the UN and partners, is urgently needed to sustain and scale up the large humanitarian effort already under way. The plan requires US$434 million to meet the life-saving needs of all Rohingya refugees and their host communities together an estimated 1.2 million people for the difficult months to come. We call on the international community to intensify efforts to bring a peaceful solution to the plight of the Rohingya, to end the desperate exodus, to support host communities and ensure the conditions that will allow for refugees eventual voluntary return in safety and dignity. The origins and, thus, the solutions to this crisis lie in Myanmar. Let us all come together on 23 October at the pledging conference and send a strong message to the Rohingya refugees and their generous hosts in Bangladesh that the world is there for them in their greatest time of need. For further information, please contact: Thousands of newly arrived Rohingya refugees cross the border near Anzuman Para village, Palong Khali, Bangladesh. UNHCR/Roger Arnold The UN Refugee Agency is concerned about the humanitarian condition of thousands of new arrivals who are stranded near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. Since Sunday night, an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 Rohingya refugees have entered Bangladesh through the Anjuman Para border crossing point in Ukhia district in the countrys south-east. Many say they had initially chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed. They finally fled when their villages were set on fire. The refugees UNHCR staff spoke to yesterday described walking for around a week to reach the Bangladesh border. Some crossed into the country on Sunday night, others throughout Monday in the heat and rain. Drone footage shows new Rohingya refugees arriving in Bangladesh (Roger Arnold, camera / Boris Weber, editor) As of this morning they are still squatting in the paddy fields of Anjuman Para village in Bangladesh. They are waiting for permission to move away from the border, where the sound of gunfire continues to be heard every night from the Myanmar side. UNHCR and our partners, the Bangladesh Red Crescent and Action against Hunger, are delivering food and water to the stranded refugees, among them children, women and the elderly who are dehydrated and hungry from the long journey. Our staff are working with Medecins Sans Frontieres to identifying the sick for treatment. UNHCR is advocating with the Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly-difficult conditions back home. Every minute counts given the fragile condition theyre arriving in. As part of our response to the new influx, UNHCR is working with the government and other partners to complete a new transit centre in Kutupalong with a capacity of 1,250. Preparations are also underway to host new arrivals in the schools in Kutupalong camp. At the same time, we are collaborating to accelerate the opening up of the new Kutupalong extension site to avoid adding more pressure to already highly congested areas of the camp. An estimated 582,000 refugees have arrived in Bangladesh since violence erupted in Myanmars northern Rakhine state on 25 August. Drone footage of Mondays arrivals is available on Refugees Media: http://media.unhcr.org/Share/p6r5ifd5ka47p24073a4u8xi6abc1c82 (login required) For more information on this topic, please contact: UNHCR teams in Libya have been responding to urgent humanitarian needs in and around Sabratha, a city located some 80 kilometres west of the capital, Tripoli. UNHCR For over a week, UNHCR teams have been working around the clock to meet the urgent needs of over 14,500 migrants and refugees who were being held captive by smugglers in different locations, including farms, houses and warehouses in and around the coastal city of Sabratha in Libya. The refugees and migrants were taken to a hangar in the Dahman area in Sabratha that has been serving as an assembly point since the onset of the crisis. From there, refugees and migrants are being transferred by authorities to official detention centres where humanitarian agencies are providing lifesaving assistance. Libyan authorities estimate that an additional 6,000 migrants and refugees are still being held by smugglers. If confirmed, this would bring the total number of refugees and migrants held in Sabratha to 20,500, including those in official detention centres. Since the onset of this humanitarian crisis, UNHCR staff have been on the ground providing emergency assistance in all locations where refugees and migrants have been transferred to, and are conducting assessments to determine needs and vulnerabilities. UNHCR has delivered more than 15 truckloads of relief items, including sleeping mats, mattresses, blankets, hygiene kits and winter jackets. As a priority, UNHCR teams have been working on identifying refugees and they continue to advocate for their release. In some locations, UNHCR has provided tents that are being used as makeshift hospitals where UNHCR doctors are providing medical assistance. UNHCR colleagues on the front lines describe a picture of human suffering and abuse on a shocking scale. Amongst the refugees and migrants who suffered abuse at the hands of smugglers, there are pregnant women and new born babies. Hundreds of people were discovered with no clothes or shoes. Scores of them are in need of urgent medical care, with some suffering from bullet wounds and other visible signs of abuse. Refugees and migrants who were rescued from the smugglers are visibly traumatized. Most of them say that they were subjected to numerous human rights abuses, including sexual and gender-based violence, forced labour and sexual exploitation. Many say they were beaten and forced to work for long hours without any food or water. They were kept in cramped conditions, often without any toilet facilities or ventilation. When found, hundreds told us they had not eaten for days. UNHCR staff have identified a worrying number of unaccompanied and separated children, many under the age of six. A large number of them report losing parents on the journey to Libya or in the chaos that resulted during the events of the last few weeks. The authorities are working very closely with UNHCR and other humanitarian partners to respond to the growing needs. But the scale of the emergency has overwhelmed existing facilities and resources. Detention centres and assembly points are now at full capacity and lack basic amenities like water tanks and sanitation facilities. Many people including children are having to sleep outside in the open. The devastation in Sabratha further reaffirms the need for international action and highlights the high price refugees have to pay to reach safety in the absence of safe legal pathways. UNHCR will continue to call on resettlement countries and the international community to step forward and open more resettlement places and look for a way to protect vulnerable refugees who need international protection. For more information on this topic, please contact: Ahead of international launch in 2018, Namibia hosts final regional preparatory meeting for the establishment of the Global Judicial Integrity Network 17 October 2017 - This week, the final regional preparatory meeting for the upcoming Global Judicial Integrity Network was held in Namibia for Anglophone and Lusophone African countries. From 16 to 17 October, Chief Justices and senior judges from 17 countries gathered to add their voices to what will be the world's first-ever global platform dedicated exclusively to upholding judicial integrity and preventing corruption within the justice system once launched in April 2018. The meeting - jointly hosted by UNODC and the Office of the Judiciary of the Republic of Namibia - follows similar regional events held over the past year in Asia (Bangkok), Europe (Vienna), Francophone Africa (Ouagadougou) and Latin America (Panama). As with these gatherings, this final meeting looks to add to the overall structure of the Network. Critically, it allowed those present to share their needs and expectations in terms of capacity-building support, advisory services, tools, networking opportunities and other resources and how best to meet these. In their opening statements, the Chief Justice of Namibia, H.E. Peter Shivute, and UNODC Southern Africa Regional Representative, Zhuldyz Akisheva, both highlighted the critical importance of judicial integrity. "It is no exaggeration to say that without integrity our judicial systems will disintegrate, and become empty shells that are unable to carry out their sacred constitutional mandate", noted Chief Justice Shivute. "To ensure that integrity becomes the bedrock of all our work and interactions as judicial officers, we must continually inculcate the values of honesty, fairness and justice in all that we do". Adding to this, Ms. Akisheva said, "The judiciary plays a crucial role in combatting corruption, but in order to fulfil this, they themselves must be free from corruption. This final preparatory meeting provides members of the judiciaries in Anglophone and Lusophone speaking African countries an important forum to discuss challenges being faced and expectations towards what the Network will offer". Reflecting the international linkages that will make the Global Judicial Integrity Network so valuable in helping share cross-border solutions to common problems, the meeting was also joined by the Honourable President Chief Justice of the Peoples' Supreme Court of Cuba, Ruben Remigio Ferro. In his keynote address the Chief Justice shared his thoughts on this issue. "The mission of judges is not to be simple enforcers of norms and dispositions to the case before them, but also implies the duty to do so with a clear notion and sense of what is fair". He also added that in his experience in Cuba, "exercising judicial power implies, in turn, the commitment to comply with judicial duty". The meeting proved highly fruitful and over the two days participants shared a vast array of innovative approaches which have been taken to effectively implement Codes of Conduct and hold judges accountable. Attendees also spoke of specific challenges which need to be overcome, including continuous attempts of the executive and the legislature in some countries to interfere with judicial decision-making and judicial appointments, among others. Ultimately the participants welcomed the proposal to launch a Global Judicial Integrity Network as a platform to allow for further exchange around issues of mutual concern, to access resources and capacity building opportunities and to develop new tools. In addition to this preparatory meeting, Swakopmund is also host to two other important regional judicial events this week. The inaugural Southern African Judicial Administrators Association and the Southern African Chief Justices Forum's Annual General Meeting are both taking place, providing further focus on this key group. The creation of the Global Judicial Integrity Network is part of UNODC's Global Programme for the Implementation of the Doha Declaration, which was adopted by the 13th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in 2015. The Global Programme provides support and technical assistance to Member States across the world in areas of judicial integrity, prisoners' rehabilitation, youth crime prevention, and education for justice, all with the objective of promoting a culture of lawfulness and boosting respect for the rule of law. Additional resources: Chairman's conclusions Global Judicial Integrity Network UNODC's anti-corruption work October 17 2017 Aberdeen City Council has taken possession of a 17m JM Architects school, offering places for up to 150 young people with Additional Support Needs (ASN).Delivered in partnership with Hub North Scotland and Ogilvie Construction Orchard Brae is the first of its kind in Aberdeen, replacing a number of existing schools and services which had previously been scattered around the city.Hub North Scotland, Chief Executive, Michael Padzinski commented: This environment for learning and development will provide the students and staff with a world class, modern learning campus, which sites at the heart of the community for the future.In addition to providing a learning environment the school doubles as a community hub for parents, families and charities as well as offering a range of outreach services for speech and language, autism and social work. UW Extension Financial Specialist Suggests Actions Following Equifax Breach Freezing credit and signing up for free credit monitoring are among strategies a University of Wyoming Extension specialist recommends in response to the massive hack of the consumer credit reporting agency Equifax. Information for about 145 million people was compromised, potentially exposing names, addresses, birth dates and Social Security numbers. Equifax has taken a few steps to help people protect their identities, says personal financial management specialist Cole Ehmke. All Americans can sign up for free credit monitoring at www.equifax.com at the Equifax Cybersecurity Incident link. The monitoring is effective for all three credit bureaus, including Experian and TransUnion. Enrollment ends Nov. 21. Equifax also has promised to waive the fee to freeze credit reports through the end of January. A credit freeze limits access to a credit report, preventing potential creditors from accessing credit files, so the creditor is less likely to issue credit, Ehmke says. The end result is that identity thieves are less likely to open an account in your name, he says. There is a charge each time a credit report is frozen and also when the freeze is lifted. The cost in Wyoming is $10. Equifax has waived this fee until the end of January, Ehmke says. He recommends freezing credit at all three agencies -- Equifax, Experian and TransUnion -- as the best identity theft protection. Youd need to do it with each of the main credit reporting agencies for both yourself and for a spouse, Ehmke says. Remember that you'll have to unfreeze your report temporarily if you want to open a new line of credit yourself. He says Equifax has announced a new service called a credit lock, which the company says will launch by Jan. 31. Offering a credit lock is a more significant offer than Equifax's previous ones of one free year of credit monitoring or its promise to waive the fee to freeze your credit through the end of January, since it is free for life, but it offers slightly less than a credit freeze, Ehmke says. A credit lock is similar to a credit freeze, in that it limits access to a credit report, but a credit freeze offers more protection as the law guarantees it, he says. Lifting a credit freeze can take between 24 and 48 hours, but not every credit lock program is instantaneous, and not every credit lock program is free. I would certainly recommend signing up for the one year of Equifax's credit monitoring service, which they call TrustedID Premier, and I would definitely consider credit freezes. Unfortunately, doing both a freeze and a lock isnt possible, Ehmke says. So far, 7.5 million people have signed up for the free year of credit monitoring Equifax offered following the breach. But, after that, consumers will have to pay Equifax $17 a month to continue the service. But, I would be hesitant to pay to do anything that I can do myself for free, Ehmke says. Regularly checking credit reports from the three agencies is one strategy people can take with credit reports and identity theft. Federal law provides free access to each once a year (at www.annualcreditreport.com). There is overlap in the content of the reports, so checking a different one every four months gives a rolling sense of what is in them across the year, he says. Monitoring credit reports helps identify whether a horse got out of the corral. A freeze might be more like helping to keep the gate closed, Ehmke says. He cautions that credit freezes will not deter non-credit-related frauds such as tax refund identity theft and health insurance fraud. For that, vigilance is about all we can recommend, Ehmke says. UWs Wyoming Research Scholars Program Welcomes Largest Group to Date Wyoming Research Scholar Program student Tyler Myers adjusts a valve on the helium recovery line in Professor David Andersons lab. (Tyler Myers Photo) A University of Wyoming program that began with four students in the fall of 2015 has now grown to 36 undergraduates who are engaged in cutting-edge research with faculty mentors. The Wyoming Research Scholars Program (WRSP), part of UWs Science Initiative, pairs undergraduate students with faculty mentors to participate in research for multiple years. In addition to the all-important mentorship aspect, the program includes a student salary for each students research time, funding for research support and supplies, and money for travel to meetings and conferences. The WRSP aims to help attract top high school students, retain those students in the sciences, and teach science writing and presentation skills. WRSP Director Jamie Crait says the program has become increasingly interdisciplinary, with students from engineering, math and education, in addition to those from science fields. Im really excited about the opportunity to pair with a faculty mentor, says sophomore Narisse Trippel, a mechanical engineering student from Worland who is beginning her second year in the program, working with Assistant Professor Erica Belmont in the Belmont Energy Research Group. I also am really excited about my research in renewable and clean energies. Trippels projects have included investigating resource availability and economic feasibility of solar and wind energy on oil and gas fields in Wyoming, and looking at the grass Arundo donax for use as a bio-char fuel. She also plans to study agricultural waste for bio-oil and biofuel uses. Like many students in the program, Trippel hopes to go on to graduate school. The program helps the students to be more competitive for positions after graduation because theyve already been collecting and analyzing data, writing reports and presenting their results at conferences, Crait says. These are real research experiences that many people dont have access to until graduate school or until they enter the workforce. WRSP graduates have already gone on to highly competitive graduate programs at institutions including Columbia University, Cornell University and Stanford University, while others have great research positions with companies including Bayer. Students also conduct outreach during their time as scholars. Our students are great ambassadors for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields in Wyoming, Crait says. Activities include giving presentations at their former high schools, leading lab tours for schoolchildren, helping with the Wyoming State Science Fair and leading workshops at the Women in STEM conference at UW. Tyler Myers, a sophomore chemistry major from Sheridan who works with Department of Chemistry Professor David Anderson, is among 20 new WRSP awardees for fall 2017. Myers is excited for both the research and the opportunity to work closely with his professor-mentor. Ill be synthesizing titanium ethylene complexes at liquid helium temperatures, he says. Basically, the whole purpose is to see how they attract and absorb hydrogen, and try to make a clean hydrogen fuel source. One of his goals is to publish a paper with Anderson. Myers encourages students to apply. Its such a great program, he says. Once youre in, the opportunities are so vast and great. For more information about the WRSP, visit the website at www.uwyo.edu/wrsp. Emily Armitage, WRSP student from Cheyenne, works in Associate Professor Naomi Wards molecular biology lab. (Jamie Crait Photo) Listed are current WRSP students and their hometowns, along with their research topics and faculty mentors: Buffalo -- Olivia Glassock, physiology, Physiological effects of obesity in mice, School of Pharmacy Assistant Professor Guanglong He. Buford -- Amanda Christensen, chemical engineering, project and mentor undetermined. Casper -- Tatiana Rice, physiology, Visual neurological development in Xenopus tadpoles, Department of Zoology and Physiology Associate Professor Kara Pratt. Centennial -- Jacob Williams, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, Discrete tomography techniques on novel grid systems and with multisets, Department of Mathematics and Statistics Professor Bryan Shader. Cheyenne -- Emily Armitage, biology, Exploring sterol function in the bacterium Gemmata obscuriglobus, Department of Molecular Biology Associate Professor Naomi Ward; Thyme Cooke, zoology, Links between hybridization and natural gas development for a mammalian species of conservation concern, Department of Zoology and Physiology Associate Professor Jake Goheen; Logan Fairbourn, microbiology, Bacterial cellulose: determining fiber properties and surmising application potentials as they relate to the textile industry, Department of Molecular Biology lecturers Rachel Watson and John Willford, and Department of Family and Consumer Sciences Assistant Professor Jennifer Harmon; and Andrew Flaim, geology, Controls on abrupt forest changes in the Snowy Range, Medicine Bow Mountains, Wyoming, Department of Geology and Geophysics Professor Bryan Shuman. Cody -- Brittany Nordberg, wildlife and fisheries biology and management, The evolutionary history of Lake Tanganyikas Nile perch species, Department of Botany Assistant Professor Catherine Wagner. Dillon, Mont. -- Ashleigh Rhea, wildlife and fisheries biology and management, rangeland ecology and watershed management, Testing for correlations between immune function and carotenoid levels, Department of Zoology and Physiology Associate Professor Matthew Carling. Douglas -- Heather Townsend, biology, Role of TRP proteins in metabolism, exercise and energy expenditure, School of Pharmacy Associate Professor Baskaran Thyagarajan; and Joshua Walmsley, chemistry, Using measurements at individual nanoparticles to screen catalysts for water-splitting reactions, Department of Chemistry Assistant Professor Caleb Hill. East Wenatchee, Wash. -- Zachary Parsons, zoology, Energetic costs of flying at altitudinal extremes, Department of Zoology and Physiology Associate Professor Michael Dillon. Fort Collins, Colo. -- Lukas Lindquist, geology, environment and natural resources, Sagebrush, climate change and groundwater recharge in Wyoming, Department of Botany postdoctoral research associate Kyle Palmquist; and Kasey Trotter, chemistry, Purification and kinetic analysis of Escherichia Coli isocitrate dehydrogenase, Department of Molecular Biology Professor Peter Thorsness. Greybull -- Logan Jensen, astronomy and astrophysics, physics, Citizen CATE experiment, Department of Physics and Astronomy Associate Professor Michael Pierce; and Anna Savage, environment systems science, Monitoring vegetation phenology using MODIS time-series data, Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center research scientist Ramesh Sivanpillai. Harrisburg, Neb. -- Rebecca Brenner, physiology, TRPV1 activation enhances thermogenesis by increasing mitochondrial biogenesis in brown adipose tissue, School of Pharmacy Associate Professor Baskaran Thyagarajan. Huntsville, Ala. -- Aylin McGough, astronomy and astrophysics, physics, Exoplanet photometry at Red Buttes Observatory, Department of Physics and Astronomy Professor Chip Kobulnicky. Laramie -- Delta Burchi, physiology, name of project undetermined, School of Pharmacy Assistant Professor Travis Brown; Ella DeWolf, molecular biology, microbiology, Interactions of soil microbiome and glucosinolate production in Brassica rapa, Department of Botany Professor Cynthia Weinig; Isabel Noyes, biology, project and mentor undetermined; Kianna Olson, astronomy and astrophysics, physics, VLA data reduction, Department of Physics and Astronomy Professor Michael Brotherton; and Elizabeth Wirsching, rangeland ecology and watershed management, Quantitative rating system for drone imagery, Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center research scientist Ramesh Sivanpillai and Department of Botany Professor Greg Brown. Littleton, Colo. -- Ryan Parziale, astronomy and astrophysics, Star clusters in nearby galaxies, Department of Physics and Astronomy Professor Daniel Dale. Liverpool, N.Y. -- Logan Eicholzer, environmental systems science, environment and natural resources, project and mentor undetermined. Meeteetse -- Colton Curtis, wildlife and fisheries biology and management, project and mentor undetermined. Newcastle -- Madison Crawford, botany, Investigating potential effects of wind turbine color on attracting pollinating insects, Wyoming Natural Diversity Database research scientist Lusha Tronstad. North Fork, Calif. -- Veronica Spaulding, chemistry, Nitrogenated crystalline organic frameworks, Department of Chemistry Associate Professor John Hoberg. Palmas, Brazil -- Luiza Bosch, physiology, CARD9 KO protects the heart from ischemia reperfusion injury, School of Pharmacy Assistant Professor Guanglong He. Plainview, Minn. -- Danielle Schurhammer, astronomy and astrophysics, physics, Changing-look quasars, Department of Physics and Astronomy Associate Professor Adam Myers. Powell -- Sarah Wurzel, biology, Spanish, The effect of spraying mosquitoes on macroinvertebrates in Spring Creek, Laramie, Wyo., Wyoming Natural Diversity Database research scientist Lusha Tronstad. Sheridan -- Tyler Myers, chemistry, Synthesis and characterization of hydrogen storage materials, Department of Chemistry Professor David Anderson. Sundance -- Olivia Croft, secondary education/biological science, biology, The effect of climate change on snail-parasite relationships, Department of Zoology and Physiology Associate Professor Amy Krist. Westminster, Mass. -- Sarah Brannon, wildlife and fisheries biology and management, environment and natural resources, The causes of variation in tropical bird parental care, Department of Zoology and Physiology Assistant Professor Corey Tarwater. Worland -- Narisse Trippel, mechanical engineering, Survey and experimental assessment of agricultural crops and waste for biofuel production, Department of Mechanical Engineering Assistant Professor Erica Belmont. Could you brief us on the major outcomes of the APEC 2017 Business Advisory Councils (ABAC) most recent meeting in July? With the ambition of turning APEC into a symbol for openness, inclusion, and innovation, ABAC members gathered in Toronto of Canada in July for discussions in order to give out recommendations to leaders in APEC economies concerning the priorities of businesses in the region. ABAC has compiled a 2017 report which encompasses recommendations to enhance openness and integration in the region, thus promoting sustainable development, innovation, and benefiting all regional communities. ABAC recommendations cover issues of regional economic integration; institutional regional connectivity; infrastructure and manpower; sustainable development, innovation, and inclusion; micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) support; and womens engagement in economic activities. MSME support is of prime concern locally and one of the top priorities for deployment. How have ABAC recommendations focused on this issue? Up to 97 per cent of APEC firms are defined as MSMEs, a similar ratio to Vietnams economy. We have recommended scaling up efforts to create the most conducive environment for the development of MSMEs, and facilitating access to the world market and global value chains for SMEs. Simultaneously, our recommendations cover enhancing competitiveness, prioritising the use and development of digital technology and the internet to enable SMEs to access and smartly use new technologies, and boosting womens engagement in the economy and the process of womens connectivity through ABAC. We have submitted the recommendations to the Vietnamese president, and other APEC economies have also submitted their proposals to their leaders in order to further perfect the recommendations. In ABAC 2017s upcoming fourth and final meeting in Danang next month, the recommendations which seek to convey the message of businesses in the region to APEC leaders will be part of the dialogues between APEC leaders and ABAC members. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recent announcement, most leaders of APEC economies will attend the dialogue, the APEC CEO Summit and related conferences, which attests to their attention to the cause of business community development. What will be on the agenda of the upcoming dialogue between APEC economic leaders and ABAC members? In the past, the dialogues between APEC economic leaders and ABAC members involved multiple questions. Recently, we realised that with a limited timeframe, it is impossible to raise too many questions. Therefore, we will firstly focus on building a multilateral trade system. Second is the need to remove trade barriers, and trade protectionism in some member economies. The third involves supporting MSMEs, particularly in finance, and creating mechanisms and applying science and information technology to support SMEs in information procurement. One of the ABAC recommendations relates to facilitating the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. How will this impact on businesses? Under the Bogor Goals, APEC should be on track to become a leading free trade and investment region by 2020. However, currently, these goals are not realistically achievable. So we are now focused on discussing APECs vision for after 2020, and our conclusions will be put on the agenda of APEC leaders during the upcoming sitting. Customs staff at Noi Bai International Airport supervise import-export activities. - Photo laodongthudo.vn The department will apply information technology to exchange and update information with businesses operating in warehouses and ports to monitor the goods from locations under customs supervision. The management and supervision of goods transported by air will be based on information before flights, with goods automatically assigned numbers linked to import and export declarations. Warehouse firms will then have to send information about the goods with the assigned numbers to the customs office. The warehouse of Noi Bai Cargo Terminal Services JSC (NCTS) will be the first unit implementing the pilot system. The Aviation Logistics Corporation (ALSC) and Air Cargo Service of Viet Nam Joint Stock Company (ACSV) will join the pilot in November to ensure all cargoes at Noi Bai International Airport are automatically managed in the system. The department also said 48 airlines operating at the airport sent documents certifying registration in the national aviation customs single window as well as information about passengers, luggage and flight crew. The information will help implement e-customs procedures and risk management on transit flights. The department has co-operated with the General Department of Customs and the three warehouse firms to receive information on goods transported by the airlines. The General Department of Customs received information from nine international airports through the national aviation customs single window. Fake documents Tran Quoc Dinh, the municipal Customs Departments deputy director, said the system would automatically send information to warehouses to take cargoes which completed customs clearance procedures. This could help warehouses return goods, saving time as well as providing timely and accurate information to prevent fake documents. The system is expected to shorten time and costs on completing customs clearance procedures while enhancing goods management to avoid trade fraud, smuggling and ensuring national security, Dinh said. He added that it would also help customs offices manage inventories at warehouses. Nguyen Cong Binh , deputy director of the General Department of Customs, said the system will operate in accordance with international standards, helping facilitate trade and import-export activities. The electronic airway bills (eWAB) will help airlines and businesses meet with standards of the Montreal 1999 Convention to change paper documents with e-bills, thus shortening time and costs as well as improving competitiveness, Binh said. The legalisation of UK documents will now go through the UK Legalisation Office After this date, documents which the Vietnamese Government need to be legalised, including university degrees, teaching qualification certificates, and UK police checks, must be legalised by the UK Legalisation Office and then by the Vietnamese Embassy in London. The British Embassy has made these changes to ensure full compliance with the requirements of the Vietnamese authorities and, importantly, to free up time for consular staff to provide more support to their most vulnerable customers, for example, minors, the elderly, people with mental health problems, and victims of serious crime. The British Embassy will continue to provide other notarial and documentary services to British nationals in Vietnam. South Korean M&A trends have finally arrived in the world of local finance Photo: Le Toan An M&A breeze from East Asia KB Securities, a subsidiary of South Koreas KB Financial Group, recently sealed a deal to take over 99.4 per cent of holdings in Vietnams Maritime Securities. In September, Maritime Securities (MSI) opened its foreign ownership limit to 100 per cent. An extraordinary general shareholders meeting was held October 9 to announce the accession of three new members to the board of directors, and the appointment of a new board of supervisors. As per the terms of the confidentiality agreement, the value of the deal was not confirmed by MSI. According to MSI CEO Mac Quang Huy, the acquisition has a significant impact on MSI as it is now effectively a foreign securities company in Vietnam; MSI will now have access to the financial and technological resources as well as global client base of KB Securities and KB Financial Group. Together with the KB brand, we will be able to grow our business in Vietnam more quickly through more competitive products and better services, Huy said. We expect to increase our funding base through both debt and equity issuance to meet our business expansion plan, as well as qualify us to provide derivative services to our clients in the near future. We also have a plan to change the companys name to reflect the fact that we are now part of a global financial group, and to leverage the global KB branding for benefit of our clients. We expect this process to take a few months. Cho Nam Hoon, head of the Global Business Department at KB Securities and a newly-elected member of the board of directors at MSI, said, In our vision of a global investment bank, after careful consideration, we have decided to choose MSI to acquire, thereby officially entering the high-potential financial market of Vietnam. With our abundant experience as well as strong financial support, we aim to build and develop a strong securities company in Vietnam, providing the best products for our clients and connecting Korean investors to Vietnams financial market, he added. Meanwhile, Korean-backed Lotte Card Co., Ltd. is thought to be en route to acquiring 100 per cent of Techcombank Finance (TCF), a unit of Hanoi-based top-tier private lender Techcombank. The credit card arm of Lotte Group, licensed by American Express and Lotte Department Store in 2002, is supposedly spending tens of billions of Korean won on the deal, in anticipation of becoming the very first Korean firm to gain a credit card license in Vietnam. In a notice made two weeks ago, Techcombank also announced its board of directors approval on the stake sale of TCF. In 2015, TCF was formed through a complete buyout of state-owned Vietnam Chemical Finance JSC by Techcombank, with a chartered capital of VND600 billion ($27.64 million). Samsung Securities is said to be buying out 10 per cent of Vietnams Dragon Capital, in a joint effort with Hong Kong-based private equity fund Caldera Pacific to become one of the largest shareholders of the asset management firm - holding an aggregate 40 per cent stake. While Dragon Capital, which has $2.32 billion in listed equity, denied the veracity of the report and Samsung Securities could not be reached for comment, rumour has it that the Korean firm could be paying a considerable sum for the acquisition. Apart from the aforementioned deals, several other Korean financial institutions have set up offices or co-operation agreements with local firms in the past decade. Korean firms which have long been present in Vietnam include Shinhan Financial Group, through its subsidiary Shinhan Investment Cooperation which oversees Shinhan Securities Vietnam; Korea Investment Holdings, with its local securities wing Korea Investment and Securities Vietnam; and Mirae Asset Financial Group, in the form of Mirae Asset Securities Vietnam. NH Investment and Securities also has an office in Vietnam, and holds 49 per cent of Vietnams Woori CBV Securities (previously known as Bien Viet Securities). And this is without mentioning locally-incorporated banks, such as Shinhan Bank or Woori Bank, or insurance firms established in the country since the early 1990s. Its complicated! According to Hong Sun, vice chairman of the Korea Chamber of Business in Vietnam (KorCham), Korean investment in the local financial sector is a recent phenomenon. For a long time, Korean conglomerates focused their investments on the local sectors of retail, food, and consumer goods. Korean financial investment in Vietnam has drawn attention since Samsung Securities was reportedly buying stakes in Dragon Capital, Sun said. Sun noted that while Vietnam is regarded as an emerging market with good potential for further growth, investing in the financial sector here is not as easy as it may sound. We all know that the investments in the financial market can come with high return, but also high risk. It could take a great deal of time for investors to thoroughly plan and decide to invest in the local financial market, Sun told VIR. The Vietnamese market is yet to be a fully open market. The characteristic of this market is its easier to get in than get out. Its one of the obstacles for Vietnam to attract financial investment. As a result, although there are numerous investors who want to come and explore the investment opportunities in the financial market, many of them still have not come up with a feasible plan for such purpose, he said. Many Korean firms have been eyeing the local financial market, yet they, and other foreign investors, have been equally facing issues of transparency and unreliable financial reports of Vietnamese firms, Sun added. Why Vietnam? For Jacob Won, founding partner of Seoul-headquartered investment banking advisory firm Locus Capital Partners, it is not a coincidence that Korean investors, particularly those in the financial sector, are looking to invest elsewhere rather than in their home country. The Korean financial institutions interest in Vietnamese financial firms is exactly echoing Korean companies in other sectors, he said. Korea is more or less a maturing economy with relatively low GDP growth rate of 2-3 per cent. Korean companies including financial institutions are looking for growth opportunity and Vietnam is their favourite country, together with Indonesia, as these two economies have a great potential to grow further with relatively good infrastructure and stability, Won explained. According to Won, Vietnams financial market is being targeted by Korean financial institutions, as they are following other Korean industrial investors who entered the country earlier, to cater to their financial needs. I think Korean financial institutions are showing more interest in domestic growth than in potential business from Korean companies in Vietnam, Won said. In addition, overall interest could potentially be positively increased thanks to the success stories of Korean companies that have presences already, particularly Samsung Electronics. Because of these success stories, I think Korean companies feel more comfortable with investing into Vietnam compared to other emerging markets. I am sure that more investment will flow into Vietnam in the years to come, as I can see significant interest from our Korean clients. Echoing Wons view, senior economist Nguyen Tri Hieu said that Korean financial institutions are marching into Vietnam as they see potential in the local financial market, whereas their home country has reached its growth peak. Through the merger and acquisition between Shinhan Bank Vietnam and ANZs retail arm, we see that Korean financial institutions are not only tackling the corporate clients, but also the retail banking business with huge potential arising from Vietnams upper middle-income group and transactions from the export and import companies, he said. They choose M&A as a way to speed up their penetration into the local market, without having to work from scratch in setting up an office or a corporation here, he added. Co-operating with a local corporation can help them save time, while taking advantage of the already-established network, human resources, and local knowledge. Korean financial institutions, on the other hand, have their expertise and international practices and experience to offer us. Representatives of startups attend the launch of the 2nd Proof of Concept (PoC) competition held in HCM City. - VNA/VNS Photo The Anh Dang Huy Dong, deputy minister of Planning and Investment, said that currently, guidelines on the establishment, management and funding and investment mechanisms for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including creative firms, are prescribed in Article 18 of the SMEs assistance law. However, bar Article 18, Viet Nams legal system has no specific regulations on creative start-ups investment procedure, legal status, organisational structure, rights, responsibilities and obligations of related parties. Therefore, a decree should be issued to define the legal status of innovative start-ups and investment funds, as well as incentives for and limitation on these entities profit-generating means and social impact, and at the same time address the legal systems limitations in the matter. The MPI has begun drafting such a decree, aiming to establish foundations for innovative start-ups and exempt them from corporate income tax for a definite period of time. The draft is now undergoing consultation, with its 40 articles based on experiences from developed countries such as Canada, the US, Singapore and the EU, stated the Enterprise Development Agency under the MPI. The draft features detailed provisions on the financial conditions of creative start-up investors and principles of innovative start-up investment, plus regulations on these companies legal status, management, operation and establishment procedures. The draft proposes that individual investors must meet certain financial conditions, such as having an average annual income of VND200 million (US$8,900) for the last two years before their investment application, or having total assets of VND500 million ($22,250), minus their personal debts. For investing organisations, total required assets in their latest financial report must be no less than VND1 billion ($44,500). Additionally, creative start-up investors, enterprises, organisations and individuals must stay aware of their contributed capital proportion and their legal responsibility in combating money laundering in Viet Nam. The ministry hopes the draft will create an appropriate legal corridor to channel capital for start-ups in Viet Nam, by generating more options for investors to make investments through innovative companies and funds. Dong also commented that if foreign creative projects are registered in Viet Nam, they would be incorporated into the countrys creative development, contributing to the improvement of national credit rating and investment attractiveness. In the context of rapidly developing technology, creative start-ups are the main force of the innovative ecosystem. Though associated with high-risks due to the high requirements of technology and innovation, creative start-ups can contribute great economic value and enhance national competitiveness. Given the high-risks involved with these firms, traditional funding channels such as bank loans are less suitable than start-up ventures as a source of funding. The Government should also issue policies to support start-ups investment activities, such as tax exemptions and reductions, pre-financing, counterpart funds, or unsecured lending for start-ups to minimise risk to private investors. Viet Nam is working towards becoming a start-up nation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), targeting one million effective enterprises by 2020, facilitating technological innovation by giving priority access to finance, and opening up new market opportunities. US President Donald Trump will personally participate in the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Vietnam The White House yesterday announced that President Donald J. Trump will travel to the central city of Danang on November 10, 2017. There, he will participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders Meeting and deliver a speech at the APEC CEO Summit, said a White House statement on the visit. In the speech, the president will present the United States vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing Americas economic prosperity, said the statement. On November 11, President Trump will travel to Hanoi for an official visit and bilateral engagements with President Tran Dai Quang and other senior Vietnamese leaders, according to the statement. During Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phucs official visit to the US on May 29-31, the two countries released a joint statement, highlighting that: The two leaders [PM Phuc and President Donald Trump] heralded the bright future for the enhanced United States-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership. In the statement, PM Phuc affirmed that, Vietnam would pursue a consistent policy of economic reform and international integration, creating favorable conditions for foreign companies, including those of the United States, to do business and invest in Vietnam. Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh meeting the leaders of the US Trade Council in April 2017 The two leaders also agreed to further foster the two countries economic, trade, and investment co-operation based on mutual benefits. Development co-operation will continue being a prime priority in the two countries economic and trade relations. Many co-operation documents worth over $8 billion were inked during this visit, mainly for high-tech equipment and services (see box). This is the second time Vietnam hosts the APEC. It hosted the APEC for the first time in 2006. The board showing Zara opening soon at Vincom Ba Trieu, Ha Noi. - File Photo H&M on Monday morning announced on its Facebook fanpage for Vietnamese that its first store in Ha Noi will open at Vincom Royal City, Thanh Xuan District, at 10.30am on November 11. Its first store in Viet Nam opened at Vincom Dong Khoi, HCM Citys District 1, on September 1. H&M is currently present in 68 markets worldwide with a total store count globally of more than 4,130. Viet Nam is the fourth market of the Swedish fashion retailer in Southeast Asia. Besides opening physical stores, H&M is expanding online and targets to open eight new H&M online markets this year, which means online shopping will be available in 43 markets by the end of this year. The company plans that in the future online shopping will be available in all store markets as well as other markets. Its largest global rival, Zara, last week also disclosed information about the opening of its store in Ha Noi in November at Vincom Ba Trieu. This is Zaras second store in Viet Nam, with the first one opened in September 2016, at Vimcom Dong Khoi in HCM City. Zaras online shopping service for the Viet Nam market has been available since April 5. Zara, a brand of Spanish fashion retailer Inditex which also owns Pull&Bear, Massimo Dutti and Bershka, currently has more than 2,090 stores globally. Property services firm Savills Viet Nam said with an average growth rate of 15 per cent, the fast fashion market would be the fastest-growing segment of Viet Nams retail market in the coming year. The company estimated that some 200 foreign fast fashion brands are currently present in the country with huge retail potential, and more brands were expected in the future, such as Uniqlo and Forever 21. According to the Viet Nam Institute for Trade, the countrys retail industry will grow on average at 11.9 per cent per year to reach a US$179 billion market by 2020 from $102 billion market in 2015. ive just recently started djing and am looking for song stems for marshmello, the chainsmokers, and slushii, if anyone has any I would be very greatful if u would be willing to share them with me Camping in Florida By Gary McKechnie Camping in Florida has a long history. Paleo-Indians were camping here 12,000 years ago, native Timucua in the 1200s, and arriving Spaniards in the 1500s. The pastime has been such an integral part of Floridas history, its only natural that camping would come of age right here. In 1919 in Tampa, camping entered the modern era when the official organization of Tin Can Tourists of the World was formed, drawing together a loose confederation of explorers, adventurers, day-trippers, and weekenders who loved to pack up their vehicles (often modified Model Ts) with tents, blankets, cooking stoves, spare tires, extra gas, pots and pans, and hit the road. From across America they sought new destinations and Florida quickly became one of their favorite retreats. It was a lightly traveled place with a temperate climate, citrus groves, exotic wildlife, and endless miles of beaches. In Florida, campings popularity led to innovations. Glenn Curtiss, who earlier modernized aviation and would later create Opa-Locka, Hialeah, and Miami Springs, invented the recreational vehicle (RV) for camping trips in the Everglades. Entrepreneurs opened modern trailer parks, state park campgrounds provided peaceful sanctuaries, and newly paved roads revealed places of unimaginable beauty as they led travelers through forests, along rivers, and beside beaches. A century later, sleek motorhomes have replaced Model Ts, but todays campers remain kindred spirits of those Tin Can Tourists. Like their camping ancestors, todays adventurers seek out places where natural beauty and outdoor recreation offer a respite from lifes fast pace. Visit Florida and the complete scope of camping opportunities is revealed. You can pitch a tent in the Keys, check into a cabin beside the Gulf of Mexico, and marvel at the heavens at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve, the first place in Florida and the only state park certified by the International Dark-Sky Association. For purists, there are places for primitive camping; for divas, there is upscale glamping (glamorous camping). Youll find state forests and wildlife refuges where the woods and wilderness havent changed in thousands of years, and there are overnight slumber parties at wildlife preserves where resident wolves, lions, and tigers are your neighbors. At the Big Cypress Reservation of the Seminole Nation, traditional chickee huts lining a picturesque marsh have been modified for your comfort, although the lack of plumbing and electricity add a dash of roughing it. In some places, Florida camping can be a time capsule. You can drift off by the ocean to the rhythmic sound of the surf just as you can rise to the beauty of a natural spring thats been percolating for thousands of years. Likewise, camping can be a time machine. Pitch a tent by the Indian River and you may catch a rocket speeding from the Kennedy Space Center and leading America into the future. A current trend suggests people are becoming more interested in experiences than in possessions. So while camping may not offer the luxuries of a four-star resort, when you camp in Florida, the evening provides generous compensation. It rewards you with a four-star experience. During a press conference on 13 October 2017, the Russian Chief of Staff, General Sergey Rudskoy, indicated that the US Coalitions bombings in Iraq are very infrequent. Because of this, a thousand Daesh fighters have been able to leave the country for Syria. These fighters, together with another 2000 fighters, participated in an attack against the Syrian Arab Army. However the Syrian Arab Army had been able to ward it off. The US Presidents speech on Iran was preceded by a Press conference at the State Department accusing Hezbollah of exporting terrorism all over the world on behalf of Teheran [1]. To show that the US was ready to put its money where its mouth is, a reward was offered for the arrest of two of its commanders. But - surprise! not a word about Hezbollahs victories against the jihadists, nor about the 800 million dollars that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has just offered to the Lebanese Resistance [2]. President Trump then took the floor and wasted no time in loading insults on the inheritance of Imam Ruhollah Khomeini, the Revolutionary Guard, and the Supreme Leader [3]. He proffered all sorts of weary old accusations which have long been disproven, and laid the foundations for accusations that they are responsible for the resurgence of Al-Qaida. Even before his speech had come to a close, oil was already up by 85 cents per barrel, since the market was betting on the cancellation of Iranian oil investments. In the hours that followed, every one of the Western states and Russia deplored Donald Trumps aggressivity, while Israel and Saudi Arabia applauded. However, the only decisions announced by President Trump and the State Department are the reward mentioned above and the pause in the certification of the 5+1 agreement before Congress [4]; the latter decision does not concern international relations, but exclusively the interior politics of the United States. The agreement of 14 July 2015 was adopted by the United Nations Security Council, which alone can repeal it. Of course, all diplomats know that behind this multilateral agreement, the United States and Iran have agreed to a secret bilateral protocol which defines their respective roles in the Greater Middle East. At the time of writing, no-one is able to say whether or not President Trump has called this protocol into question. Consequently, all reactions to the declarations of the State Department and to his speech on 13 October are nothing more than fan dancing. The ruling classes of the United States and Iran have always obsessed about their respective relations. During the Revolution of 1979, the Carter administration was so deeply divided that the Secretary of State, Cyrus Vance, and the Security Advisor, Zbigniew Brzezinski, confronted one another, and both threatened to resign if the President would not listen to them. It was finally Brzezinski who won out, but not without masking the arrest of spies from the US embassy in Teheran as the sequestration of hostages , and then covering himself with ridicule by failing to free them [5]. From the time of this incident, the relations between Washington and Teheran have been a succession of media lies having nothing to do with reality. From the Iranian point of view, the United Kingdom and the United States are lying predators who have colonised and exploited their country, and who continue to crush other states which have so far failed to revolt. This is why Iranians commonly call them by the nicknames of Little Satan and Big Satan . According to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, every man worth his salt must fight against their perverted ways. But from another point of view, the Anglo-Saxons are not all bad, and there is no reason not to do business with them. During the Bush Jr. administration, Vice-President Dick Cheney never ceased plotting with London and Tel-Aviv to attack Teheran. He created the very secret Iran Syria Policy and Operations Group around his daughter, Liz Cheney, and an old secret operations veteran, Elliott Abrams. He first considered the use of nuclear weapons, then supporting an Israeli attack from airports rented from Georgia. However, what happened was exactly the opposite Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the US Chief of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, met in secret on 2 March 2008 in Baghdad. By overthrowing the Afghan Taliban and Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, the United States eliminated the enemies of Iran on his behalf, and favoured his regional influence. During the Obama administration, the White House attempted to overthrow President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad by organising the colour revolution of 2009. Having drawn the conclusions of its failure, it initiated contact with its opponents, united around ex-President Hachemi Rafsandjani. It so happens that in the period between 1983 and 1986, the US National Security Council organised the Iran-Contra operation. At that time, Colonel Oliver North and the ubiquitous Elliott Abrams relied on a deputy, Cheikh Hassan Rohani, who introduced them to the Hodjatoleslam Rafsandjani. It was with this group that the Obama administration began talks in Oman, in March 2013. By some form of administrative pirouette, Ahmadinejads candidate was not authorised to present himself in the Presidential elections, which were won by Cheikh Rohani five months later. As soon as he gained power, Rohani began official negotiations for the 5+1 agreement that he had imagined during the Oman negotiations. As for Donald Trump, he never failed to maintain a violently anti-Iranian discourse during his election campaign. This was also the position of his first Security Advisor, General Michael Flynn. However, since his arrival in the White House last January, the President has eliminated, one by one, all of his anti-Iranian advisors (with the exception of Mike Pompeo, the current Director of the CIA). On the contrary, his three main advisors are pro-Iranian (the Director of his cabinet, General John Kelly, his Secretary of Defense, General James Mattis, and his Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson). Incidentally, it is interesting to note that during the nomination of the Secretary of State, the pro-Obama Press announced its certainty that the job would go to Elliott Abrams yes, him again. The President received Abrams for a long time, asked him about his relations with Cheikh Rohani, then walked him to the door and nominated Tillerson. It is always possible that President Trump could destroy the US-Iran agreement on an impulse, and even much more serious pick a quarrel with the Revolutionary Guards, but it is more probable that he will once again act up in order to soothe his Israeli and Saudi allies. We have to keep in mind that Donald Trump is not a professional politician, but a real estate promoter, and that he acts like one. He gained his professional success by spreading panic with his outrageous statements and observing the reactions he had created amongst his competitors and his partners. In order to decide between these two hypotheses, we will have to wait for sanctions against the Revolutionary Guard. Then we shall see whether or not they are serious or simply an expression of Donald Trumps manner and the traditional masquerade of the United States against Iran. Commissioners Commendation On Thursday 5th October 2017, Commissioner of Police Eddie Yome QPM CPM presented Mr Arseniy Ladusan with a Commissioners Certificate of Commendation. Mr Ladusan, who is currently residing in Gibraltar, was commended for his selfless actions when on the evening of Friday 29th September 2017 whilst snorkelling at Camp Bay he noticed a fully clothed young man jump into the sea. Mr Ladusan swam towards the young man and realised that the he seemed irrational and intent on ending his own life. As the young man began to swim out to sea Mr Ladusan swam out with him and at great risk to himself remained with the young man and assisted him in remaining afloat until a Police vessel arrived at the scene and recovered both men from the water. The young man who was found to have weighed himself down with rocks was subsequently admitted to Ocean Views Mental Health Facility. Sun Yuan and Peng Yus 2003 video piece, Dogs That Cannot Touch Each Other. Photo: Sun Yuan and Peng Yu/Galleria Continua, San Gimignano, Beijing, Les Moulins, Habana At the end of the exhibition Art and China After 1989: Theater of the World there is a small room that sits at the top of the Guggenheims ramped white rotunda. The room is marked Coda, and visitors arrive to it after viewing artwork by artists spanning more than two decades of practice. There are only three works in the room: an installation by Gu Dexin, an ink painting by Yang Jiechang, and a video piece by the couple Sun Yuan and Peng Yu. Of the nearly 150 works included in the show, the last piece, titled Dogs That Cannot Touch Each Other, has attracted by far the most attention. It seems possible that without the inclusion of this piece, the show might not have been the subject of significant public outrage. Dogs That Cannot Touch Each Other documents a performance held in 2003, where eight dogs identified as American pitbulls were escorted by private limousine into an art space in Beijing and placed on treadmills facing one another. They were strapped in place, able only to run forward. After the New York Times published a preview of the exhibition, pet owners and animal-rights activists immediately took notice and began circulating petitions and social-media campaigns calling for the removal of Sun Yuan and Peng Yus piece, as well two others involving animals, by Xu Bing and Huang Yong Ping. A change.org petition accusing the museum of displaying animal torture as art racked up more than 750,000 signatures, and the museum seemed caught off-guard by the intensity of the criticism. Only five days after the Times preview appeared, the Guggenheim announced they would not display the three works as originally intended, citing concern for the safety of its staff, visitors, and participating artists. For Dogs That Cannot Touch Each Other, this means the screen of the television is frozen on the videos title card in a compromise decision to physically include the work, but not the parts that were offensive. Animal-welfare activists were disappointed that the museum had not conceded that the works amounted to animal torture, and critics elsewhere noted that the manner in which the museum responded to the controversy closed off the possibility of any substantive engagement around questions of violence, animals, and the display of art. To be clear, the video piece by Sun Yuan and Peng Yu relies on the use and abuse of animals. So do the two other works that were protested: Xu Bings 1994 video A Case Study of Transference features two pigs mating with gibberish Roman letters and Chinese characters tattooed over their bodies, while Huang Yong Pings Theater of the World, which the exhibition takes its title after, planned to stock a cage shaped like a tortoises shell with live insects and reptiles. Animals including African millipedes, Goliath beetles, hissing cockroaches, stag beetles, leopard geckos, and Italian wall lizards were intended to live and die in the same space, and often at each others hands not too unlike anything that happens in homes with pet reptiles. At least two additional works in the show depict violence against animals, but escaped notice by social-media activists: Wang Xingweis 2001 painting New Beijing, in which penguins shot in the chest stand in for wounded protesters at Tiananmen Square, and Liu Xiaodongs 1998 painting Burning a Rat, of two idle men who set a rat on fire for amusement. It can also be assumed that still other works in the show were created using animal products and byproducts, a situation that would not be unusual to any particular exhibition of art. Wang Xingweis 2001 painting New Beijing. Photo: Wang Xingwei/M+ Sigg collection, Hong Kong. By donation Was it necessary to include these works in the exhibition? For many reasons, yes. Dogs That Cannot Touch Each Other and the other works included are, for one, impossible to separate from the context they were created in. Ben Davis has written an excellent commentary for Artnet on the subject, noting that the artists work within a genre of installation and performance art noted for its brutality and macabre spectacle. Critics, both inside and outside of China, have often read the nihilistic extremes of Chinese performance and performance-installation from this period as morbid symptoms of a society wrenched by stunning change combined with a lack of any sense of political control, writes Davis. Sun Yuan and Peng Yus performance-installation work comes at the tail end of a post-Tiananmen-to-new-millenium period of art practice, in which many artists were reconciling with the breakneck social changes from globalization to urbanization and trauma that were a byproduct of the countrys integration into a neoliberal world order. Dogs That Cannot Touch Each Other is Sun Yuan and Peng Yus commentary on the competitive, often exploitative structures of sport and commerce that felt most relevant in 2003, just two years after China entered the WTO and Beijing won the bid to host the 2008 Olympics. The controversy is also impossible to separate from the differing sociocultural and legal frameworks that buttress attitudes toward animals in China and the United States. In this case, an American understanding of animal rights that is largely defined around our relationship with our pets came into conflict with art from a time and place that does not share the same understanding of the relationship between animals and humans. Some chalked up the use of animals to an indifference toward animal life somehow specific to Chinese culture. (Its especially telling that social-media campaigns primarily reproduced images from Sun Yuan and Peng Yus video work featuring dogs.) But whats missing from the conversation around Dogs That Cannot Touch Each Other is that since 2003, the context for performance installation in general, and Sun Yuan and Peng Yus work specifically, has decidedly shifted. A growing number of Chinese count themselves among the animal-rights movement, and there have been two attempts within China to introduce animal protection laws. As Chinas urbanization deepens and spreads, a greater number of households own pets. Sun Yuan and Peng Yu have not staged major works featuring live animals in the last decade. More important, though, the violence and coercion enacted upon animal bodies is part and parcel of the violence and coercion that defines the entire show. Returning to the final room of the exhibition, Coda, Sun Yuan and Peng Yus Dogs that Cannot Touch Each Other sits in the furthest corner of the space. The room is otherwise dominated by the two other works of art in it: an ink painting by Yang Jiechang, Lifelines I, which depicts the paths taken by volunteers carrying away the bodies of the injured on Tiananmen Square the night of the massacre, and an installation by Gu Dexin which covers the four walls of the room in bold red Chinese text. It reads, without punctuation: We have killed people we have killed men we have killed women we have killed the elderly we have killed children we have eaten people we have eaten their hearts we have eaten their brains we have beaten people blind we have beaten open their faces The room is a profoundly dark note on which to end an exhibition that also begins in 1989. To the extent that the show surveys art and society in China from 1989 and on, the Coda asserts that the night of June 4, 1989, remains the defining event of these times. It is a deliberate curatorial choice both to start and end the exhibition on 1989, and one that is obscured by the public focus around animal rights. For what was the Tiananmen massacre if not a trauma of Chinas transition out of socialism and into neoliberal world order? The exhibition had always been intended to be about the effects of violence and brutality on art and society, and the works selected for the show including those involving animals embraced that difficulty. Before the social-media outcry, the Guggenheim seemed to understand this, and were prepared to defend Huang Yong Pings work in particular, given that it was originally meant to anchor the show. In an interview conducted prior to the exhibitions opening, lead curator Alexandra Munroe told Artnet that We wanted to open the show with [Huang Yong Pings Theater of the World] because it introduces the visitor to an artists thinking that is embracing chaos, that is filled with questioning, that is atheistic, that is fearless of any governing ideologies, that is asking tough questions, and that is brutal. Referring to central space in which the work is installed, Munroe cautioned viewers, If you cant survive the high gallery, dont bother seeing the rest of the show. The work in the show is intense. Huang Yong Pings Theater of the World, which the Guggenheim exhibition takes its title after. Photo: Huang Yong Ping/Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Ultimately, any exhibition purporting to represent important art from China during the last two decades needs to address the themes represented in works by Huang Yong Ping, Xu Bing, and Sun Yuan and Peng Yu. The museums inability to control the narrative surrounding its own exhibition speaks to both a missed opportunity for a larger, more nuanced conversation, as well as an inability to make the exhibition intellectually accessible in a media landscape of fake news, memes, and social-media campaigns. When the museum reluctantly announced it would be altering the display of the disputed works, it fell back on what is by now a tired and conservative defense of freedom of expression: As an arts institution committed to presenting a multiplicity of voices, we are dismayed that we must withhold works of art, they wrote. Freedom of expression has always been and will remain a paramount value of the Guggenheim. Its a conclusion that misses the larger point. Today, both the Guggenheim and the artists featured in Art and China After 1989 have plenty of access to artistic expression, even an abundance of it, and serious challenges to an artists ability to express themselves through exhibition are usually fiscal. In the end, whats at stake is not the freedom to display animal torture as art, but whether or not the museum is still a site for staging difficult conversations around difficult works of art. Art and China After 1989: Theater of the World is on display at the Guggenheim through January 7, 2018. Photo: Laurie Sparham / Bleecker Street | Participant Media Andrew Garfield grins as I come in. Good to see you again, he says, sitting in the middle of an anonymous Toronto conference room. Last time I saw you, we did an interview that got quite a lot of airplay. He wasnt kidding. That Vulture interview, meant to promote his 2015 housing-crisis drama 99 Homes, was a spiky but fascinating chat where Garfield aired out his frustrations not just with politics but with Hollywood, and his own stardom, after two big-budget films playing Spider-Man. In a world where actors go through the chipper motions on their press tours, Garfields candor was so striking that some outlets framed his quotes as part of a potential breakdown. Who am I? he had sighed to me. Do I have anything to say? In truth, Garfield has plenty to say, and hes never shy about expressing himself, even if those words can land him in hot water. When I spoke to Garfield on the phone again several months ago to promote Silence, it was just after Donald Trumps election, and Garfield likened Trumps campaign manager to the Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels. This past summer, he was criticized for comments he made while starring in the London revival of Tony Kushners Angels in America, which the British star will reprise when the play comes to Broadway early next year. Discussing his utter commitment to the lead role of AIDS-afflicted Prior, as well as his weekend diversion watching episodes of RuPauls Drag Race, Garfield joked, I am a gay man right now, just without the physical act. The 34-year-old Garfield is a passionate speaker whose words tumble out of him as though he has no other choice but to speak; he would rather be ebullient than careful. His new role in the film Breathe leverages his intense desire to connect better than any part hes had so far. In the fact-based drama, directed by Andy Serkis, Garfield plays British polio patient Robin Cavendish, whose near-total paralysis ultimately cannot stifle his spirit or his devotion to wife Diana (Claire Foy). Its a character that Garfield acts solely from the neck up, using his big eyes, plummy voice, and movie-star charisma to pull you in. We talked about the film for Vulture, but first talked about the process of doing interviews in general. When we talked about 99 Homes, you were unusually candid, and I think people werent prepared for that. But I really enjoyed the conversation. I did, too. And thats what breaks my heart sometimes, especially when you go deep with someone and you actually get somewhere. Its usually in those moments that things get spun out [by other outlets] and made into something that theyre not. Listen, movie stars have a pretty good life, by and large. But you do make yourselves vulnerable in ways that people may not appreciate. First, you put yourself in the hands of a director and editor who get to be the definitive authors of your performance Mmm-hmm. And then also, when you talk to people like me, you have no idea how were going to frame the things you say. So to be vulnerable with the press requires a lot of faith. But its inevitable, isnt it? Especially in print, because this is your interview. This isnt my interview this is through your prism, your perspective. I find that really interesting, and occasionally frustrating. Well, lets talk about Breathe. I do feel like this was the role that your eyebrows were meant to play. [Laughs.] I appreciate that. When your physical movement as an actor is restricted solely to your face, what do you learn about your technique? In film, theres this kind of constant fear that youre going to be doing too much. That may be an unfounded fear because I love sizable performances on film, especially when theyre by performers who push the boundaries of what people deem the right kind of size. I feel like were coming out of this era of screen naturalism, where performances are allowed to be more maximal again. I think the same could be said for Robin in this instance, because once he decided to truly say yes to staying alive for as long as hes able to, his life force comes back. Everything that cant be expressed by his body goes to the place where it can be expressed, and it only is in the face. So very naturally, without being aware of it, my face and my eyes began to do things that might look quite overwhelming, especially in a close-up. But Bob Richardson was our genius [director of photography] and Andy Serkis is a master of performance capture, so I trusted that they would let me know if it was too much. Theres a contagious sense of delight I can sense you having in this role. Well, Robins essence was delight, and it had a richness to it. He was a sensualist who was obsessed with living and was so curious about life. He was very religious before the polio hit, and he forsook his Christianity straight after, but I believe from an objective point of view that he became an even more spiritual person than before because of his devotion to being present and his awareness of his own fragility. Every breath of his existence was a miracle. Its a very British film. Maybe the most British film youve made in the last several years. Or maybe ever. Its an interesting thing: I had never been drawn to British films, particularly British films that were set in this [upper] class. Those kinds of films havent spoken to me until this one came along, and I think thats because its not a film about class; Robins class just happens to be his class. Its a film about something so much greater than that: How do you live a full life of joy within such struggle? The film, essentially, is about making an attitude adjustment. That even dire things can be faced with good humor. Its an attitude of, What else is there to lose? I think that is a big secret of living, to live so close to the possibility of death. That was a big part of the cosmology of most indigenous cultures. The Native American shamans would teach people to live with death in the far-left corner of their eyes, so they were constantly aware of how lucky you were and how temporary everything is. I think Robin was given that opportunity through the terrible loss of his body that he suffered. Almost everyone has worked with Andy Serkis in some fashion, but the two of you had never met before this project, right? No, but Id been a fan of his work as an actor. I was sent the script and they were kind of eager for me to read it because they wanted to make it quite quickly. I didnt imagine it was something I wanted to do. It wasnt until I started reading that I thought, Oh dear, theres no choice but to do this. Its one of the most profound film scripts Ive ever read and one of the most profound stories Ive been aware of. It really has everything. Its a template for how to live. I want to ask about some of your upcoming projects. I know you shot Under the Silver Lake, the new noir from It Follows director David Robert Mitchell. What should I expect? Its wild. Dont think about it, just come. Its the weirdest, wildest, most unique thing Ive been a part of. Have you seen a cut of it, or you could just tell while filming it that it was so wild? I could tell reading the script, from his writing. Its brilliant and so of its own voice. During the production, there were so many days where I was like, What the fuck is going on today? But you go with it because David is a visionary. He really knows who he is and what he wants to see, and hes very specific and clear, which I really appreciated. I was able to fully relinquish control and let him tell me what he wanted, because it so comes from his own psyche in that David Lynch kind of way. If David Lynch asks you to lick the bunny rabbit, then youll lick the bunny rabbit, you know? How do you feel coming out of your initial run of Angels in America? My God. Well, its the best play ever. Tony is up there with Shakespeare, Miller, and Tennessee Williams, as far as Im concerned. I feel so humbled and grateful that he thought I could do it, and its been the hardest thing Ive ever done as far as what it costs. What it costs physically? Or physically, emotionally, mentally, energetically. The character is in a spiritual emergency where the other world is crashing into his and he believes he is losing his mind and is going to die at any second. He experiences loss after loss after loss after loss and it takes the actors seven and a half hours to track his journey of coming to terms with it. Its about the question, how do people change? I think thats what Tony was trying to figure out. How do we transform and incorporate loss and suffering and tragedy and an occasionally unjust universe into our understanding of life? [Pause.] Im getting choked up thinking about it because its still kind of fresh in me. Are you happy to have this break before you tackle it again on Broadway? Oh my God. I need it! We were all concerned for ourselves and each other because its the hardest thing I ever hope to do. The lucky thing is that were all in it together and we all get to hold each other up, but its also very lonely, especially in Part Two. All the characters are so on their own track. We were talking earlier about how your remarks in an interview may be interpreted by other outlets. How do you feel about the controversy that ensued when you said you were a gay man without the physical act? I dont think I do have anything to say about it. I was in a room with people, and that was the context it was in. I can comment on the conversation, but I really cant comment on what happened outside of the room [after the press picked it up]. Its none of my business, actually. But I will say this. I am so, so happy and grateful that I get to be a part of moving the conversation and actively keeping the world spinning forward for a community that I care so deeply about and that I feel so proud to be an ally to. I have this deep longing to continue to serve in any way Im meant to, as humbly as Im meant to. Im just grateful to play this role and be welcomed by a community that I admire and find so beautiful and long to be a part of. All that said, how did you feel about this last season of Drag Race? [Garfield laughs. His publicist, perhaps sensing the potential for another sound bite that could spin out of control, interrupts the interview: We have to end it. And then Garfield laughs some more. He cant help but offer one comment.] Every moment of Drag Race, Im profoundly happy about. Its Disney Night on tonights Dancing With the Stars! Like everyone else in America, I grew up with Disney movies. When I was a young girl, I wanted to be Mary Poppins. Not because of her magical powers, but because I wanted to be able to say supercalifragilisticexpialidocious without biting the side of my tongue. And even though I dont have kids, Disney is still a big part of my life, mostly because I live in New York City and its impossible to walk more than three blocks without passing a theater hosting a musical based on a Disney movie. The opening dance is being done to Its a Small World After All, which brings back a painful memory of going to Disney World with my parents and being forced to go on that annoying ride. All those creepy little puppets, singing that dopey song over and over and over and great, now Im in a bad mood. Tom Bergeron, you better have some whimsy on deck to cheer me up quick. Tom is telling us that each contestant will do a dance based on a Disney film. None of them picked Mary Poppins, which doesnt help my mood. Okay, Lisa, deep breath Sportscaster Victoria Arlen and her dance partner are doing a jazz dance based on the 1928 cartoon Steamboat Willie. That movie is notable because it features the first-ever appearance of Mickey Mouse. Plus fun fact its the film that Larry King took his fourth wife to on their first date. Victoria, if you remember, was in a vegetative state for nearly four years and, after that, was paralyzed from the waist down. After years of hard work, she learned to walk again. Her story makes me feel kind of guilty about being too lazy to get off the couch to get my slippers, but not guilty enough to not just jam my feet between the cushions to keep them warm. But I digress. Victoria does a fantastic job and earns three nines from the judges for a score of 27. Plus, Ill bet shes going to get off her couch later tonight to get slippers if her feet get cold. Show-off! Next is Vanessa Lachey. If you told me six months ago that Id be writing about Vanessa Lachey doing a waltz while wearing a sequined Snow White costume, I probably would have kicked you in the nuts and called you an unprintable name. But here I am. In her close-up after her dance, Im noticing that Vanessa has no beads of sweat on her face. NONE! If I had done that dance under those hot studio lights, Id look like Id just crawled out of the Hudson River. Vanessa scores three eights for a score of 24. Were 20 minutes into the show, and Kermit the Frog has already made two appearances. I know that the Muppets are now owned by Disney, but theyre not Disney Disney, if you know what I mean. Seeing a Muppet on a Disney-themed show is like having your second-cousin-once-removed show up at your Thanksgiving dinner. Sure, technically hes family, but I dont want him eating my candied yams. I have to admit, Im feeling guilty for having more negative thoughts than a person watching a show about Disney dancing should probably be having. Up next is violinist Lindsey Stirling doing a fox-trot to When You Wish Upon a Star from Pinocchio. Seeing how graceful and elegant Lindsey looks as she performs her fox-trot makes me want to jump off my couch and go take dance lessons. But lets be serious: If Im not going to get up to get my slippers, theres very little chance of me running out to take dance lessons anytime soon. The judges love Lindseys performance and award her with a nine, ten, and nine for a score of 28. Head judge Len Goodman gives her the ten, which surprises me because hes usually so cranky. Maybe theres something to this Happiest Place on Earth Disney crap after all. Tom Bergeron announces that next weeks theme is a Night at the Movies. Im hoping for a Reservoir Dogs dance where one of the contestants ties Bruno to his chair while cha-cha-cha-ing to Stuck in the Middle With You. Here comes Nick Lachey, doing a quickstep to Bare Necessities from The Jungle Book. I have to be honest: Nick is so stiff on the dance floor that he looks like the before picture in a chiropractors ad. Hes also very sweaty after his dance, unlike his wife. I wonder if this has ever been a point of contention in their bedroom. Nick gets a seven, eight, and seven for a score of 22, once again a lower score than his wife received. For me, this season of DWTS has become a weekly contemplation of what goes on in the Lachey home during the days between the shows. I imagine its something like: Vanessa: Good morning, honey! Would you like some eggs? Nick: What Id like is a 27! THATS WHAT ID LIKE!!! Next up is Drew Scott doing the Viennese waltz to The Rainbow Connection from The Muppet Movie. And guess what? Kermit is sitting at the judges table. Not Mickey. Not Donald. Not Goofy. Kermit. What gives him the right? WHAT GIVES HIM THE RIGHT? Plus, the new guy they have voicing Kermit sounds like a prepubescent Ray Romano. Deep breath, Lisa. Deep breath. Drew does a nice job with his waltz, and I will go out on a limb and say that Drew is the best dancer this season who has a reality show about real estate. Drew gets a nine, eight, and eight for a score of 25. Pretty Little Liars star Sasha Pieterse is up now, doing a rumba to a song from The Little Mermaid. In her pretaped segment, she mentions that shes lost 37 pounds since she started this show. Stop bragging, honey. Some of us dont have the opportunity to be on a dance-competition show. Some of us dont even have the energy to get their slippers out of the bedroom, even though their feet are freezing. She gets three eights for a 24. Here comes Terrell Owens doing a quickstep to a song from The Lion King. Hes doing a great job, but Im a little disappointed that hes keeping his shirt on. Come on, Terrell! The Lion King is set on the savanna. Its hot there! You dont need a shirt. But nope, he remains fully clothed for the entire dance. Despite his unnecessary modesty, he gets a nine, eight, and eight for a score of 25. Next up is Frankie Muniz. His Disney film is Pirates of the Caribbean and, in his pretaped segment, Frankie says hes worried that he wont be able to pull off being a sexy pirate for his Argentine tango. What? A five-foot-four guy named Frankie who starred in Malcolm in the Middle isnt sexy? But knock me over with a feather the little schmuck WAS sexy! Right now, I wouldnt mind Malcolm in My Bedroom. Carrie Ann Inaba is all worked up, too, and gives him a ten, and with a nine and another ten, he earns a 29. Here comes Jordan Fisher, dancing a fox-trot to his own song, Youre Welcome, from the movie Moana. By the way, I just saw Jordans music video for his new song, Mess, and its really good. This kid is way too talented and, in keeping with MY theme of the night, Im annoyed again. The judges love his dance and give him a 30. Finally, WWE star Nikki Bella comes out to perform a jazz dance to a song from the upcoming Disney movie Coco. This DWTS episode has pushed more Disney products than the gift shop in the Magic Kingdom. Nikki does a great job and gets three nines for a score of 27. ELIMINATION TIME! The bottom two are Sasha and Frankie. And Sasha goes home. I could make a joke that her new show should be called Pretty Little Loser, but Im much too compassionate to say something that callous. Im giving this episode three out of five stars. Im taking one star away because Kermit had to stick his nose or whatever frogs have at the end of their faces into the show. See you next week, everybody! Lisa Lampanelli can be seen in her play, Stuffed, at the Westside Theatre in New York City. For tickets, go to stuffedplay.com. Photo: Getty Images Michael Fassbender is multitasking. Hes shaking hello with his right hand and scrubbing off photo shoot makeup with his left. Cleansed, he looks exactly the same: vivid blue eyes, electric copper hair, stubble so bright and bristly it seems impossible it didnt serrate his makeup wipe. The intensity is expected. Fassbender became famous playing a zealot in Hunger, and since then has shunned the sugar-coated crowd-pleasers Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper splice in between Oscar attempts and bombastic blockbusters to assure audiences they have a sense of humor. Compared to Fassbender, Christian Bale looks playful. When Fassbender joins a splashy franchise, he adds gravitas. His Magneto survived the Holocaust; his Alien android attacks the hubris and frailty of mankind. (Even while gifting Tumblr a Fassbender-on-Fassbender smooch more on that later.) His new film, The Snowman, is a half-step off from his serious path. The Oslo-set thriller, directed by Let the Right One Ins Tomas Alfredson, is a slightly goofy serial-killer mystery in which Fassbender plays an alcoholic detective named Harry Hole, the star of 11 gory novels by Norwegian author Jo Nesb. The Snowman boasts identical twins and motorized garrotes and severed heads stuck to snowballs and a surprising amount of Aphex Twin. Yet, at the center of the silliness, Fassbender gives a straightforward performance of a man just trying to do his job. As Fassbender perches on the couch, he seems very present, but protective, even for this deeply private actor. Id been planning to congratulate him on his upcoming Ibiza wedding to Alicia Vikander. In person, it seemed safer just to talk about death. Harrys a drunk and an iffy father figure and a misanthrope who pushes chairs away in his office cafeteria so he doesnt have to talk to people. What did you like about him? A detective is a genre that I wanted to do. Then reading the books, I just really like the character. Jo had such an investment in this character. Hes really human, and I could imagine him as somebody who is living and breathing and existing. I love the fact that hes not an action hero. When he goes into a scuffle, he usually comes out the worse for wear. And the drinking thing is just him self-medicating. I think he hates his job. Hes brilliant at it, and he cant step away from it. Theres an obsessiveness that is part of his personality and part of his relationship to the job. So theres a lot going on there, and then some of the stuff is in contradiction, which is interesting to play with. Do you think youd make a good detective? No. Why not? Cause I dont have an interest in it. I think if you want to be good at something to find happiness in it you have to have a passion for it. Youve read all the books in the Harry Hole series except The Snowman, which you avoided so it wouldnt interfere with how you interpreted the script. How do you make time to read? You know, you sit around set a lot. Theres a lot of time in between setups when I just read. I read in the evenings, whenever I have free time. Would you want this to turn into a movie franchise like the Jack Reacher books? Yes, I would, yeah. Is there a limit to how many series you can handle? As long as I feel like I want to do them, Ill participate. Harry has some weird quirks. Can you explain them? First, he carries his files in a plastic grocery bag. It just felt right. He doesnt carry things on him a lot. We felt that it was interesting. What he has, he has on him. And I just thought theres something interesting and temporary about a plastic bag, something very naff, not organized, but in a way still just very practical. Its unusual. But it was just something that happened on the day. I was like, Maybe the plastic bag? I just like those quirks, you know. When he takes a nap, he sleeps on a pillow made of record albums. I think hes just listening to music. For me, if Im lying on my back resting, I always like to have something under my head. No matter how cold it gets, he never zips up his jacket. Thats right. Thats just to make him look like a tough guy. You really did shoot this in Norway in the winter. How cold did it get? You know, its funny because Tomas talked about not putting on the jacket. He said he was on a bus trip one time and the bus driver stood outside the bus having a cigarette in short sleeves. That non-awareness of the cold that that guy seemed to have, he wanted to incorporate that into Harry, as well. It was cold, but not really that bad. Its a very dry cold there, so it was quite refreshing. I enjoyed it, actually it was invigorating. The air was so clean. I liked it because before I went out there, I was thinking, Ugh, its going to be brutal. But it wasnt that bad. The Snowman has a subplot related to abortion. Norway has a reputation for being progressive. Still, its unusual to hear a movie talk about abortion as a normal fact. Was that weird for you, especially being from Ireland where abortion is still illegal? I didnt think about it that much, to be honest, until you bring it up now. I always think of Scandinavia as a progressive place, socially. Norway, whats interesting is they made most of their money from fossil fuels, but they invest most of their money in green, renewable energy, which says a lot about the country. Jo has said that the 2011 Anders Breivik mass shooting both deeply affected Norwegians and affected the way he saw violence in his own books. Could you feel that while you were there? I couldnt to be honest, no. I had no reference point before, so I couldnt really tell. The movie has amazing aerial shots of cars speeding down skinny, snowy, slippery Norwegian roads. As a person who loves race-car driving, Norway looks like a great place to do it. Yeah, I had some beautiful drives there. I have a car similar to what Katrine [Rebecca Fergusons character, another officer] was driving. A lot of fun driving on ice roads. Do they have a speed limit? Yes, Im sure they do. Most countries have a speed limit. Germanys Autobahn doesnt have the speed limit in certain sections, but I dont know any other place in the world that doesnt have a speed limit. How fast have you gone on the Autobahn? On a motorcycle, I did 140 miles an hour. In a car, I did about 160. On the set, was there a meta-moment where you guys made snowmen? Yeah, I remember briefly trying to make a snowman and it being a bad effort. Lots of snowball fights, though. You seem like youd win. No. Depends on the day. Did Rebecca win? Is there ever a winner on those things? I think everybody gets their moments. How does 40 feel at this point in your career? Really good. Youve talked about wanting to direct. Yes, Id like to do that in the next couple of years. When youre on the set with someone like Tomas, are you taking mental notes of what theyre doing? Absolutely. For sure. All the time with all the directors that Ive worked with. Even the ones that maybe I dont like so much. I think, Okay, I wont do that. But yeah, all the time just soaking up information and just trying to learn as much as I can. In 2010, Tomas and I were sitting down seeing if we could work together on Tinker Tailor. I was doing X-Men: First Class at the time and we couldnt make it work, scheduling. But I just remembered his intelligence and the way he talked about storytelling. I thought, Wow hes an original and a really intelligent man. Id like to work with him and I feel like I could learn things from him. How do you feel about doing romantic comedies? I havent really thought about it that much. If a script is good and it interests me, then Ill do it. I think theres always been a market for them. I dont think theres ever been a decade that Ive been around where there hasnt been romantic comedies. What did you think of the reaction to the Fassbender-on-Fassbender kiss in Alien: Covenant? Uhhh I guess I was surprised by it because I didnt think much of it when I was doing it. But of course, it is something that people are going to ask about. So, fine. Thats just the way it is and it doesnt bother me in the slightest. I dont even take it that seriously. I take it seriously in terms of, I come to work well-prepared and I want to do my best and I definitely put my heart and soul into my work. But I dont think its something that needs to be respected and revered and taken seriously. Its fun and if people are getting pleasure out of it, then cool. Even when you see yourself turned into a unicorn sparkle GIF. I dont really look at that much of it, so Im not really aware of whats out there. I dont spend a lot of time looking at these things. Im not that caught up in it. But once you do something, I always feel like it doesnt belong to me. Once I make the film and we send it out there, its out in the public domain its there for people to take whatever they will from it. I always feel like talking about something is kind of pointless because the audience will see it, and it is whatever it is to the individual. And theyre right. If the person says its about this, then it is about that for them, regardless of whether thats actually the case in the film. It doesnt matter anymore. It no longer belongs to anybody. L-R: Holt McCallany and Jonathan Groff. Photo: Patrick Harbron/Netflix Mindhunter has a lot going for it. The series is dreary in a way thats still visually compelling. It has some strong performances, especially by Jonathan Groff and Cameron Britton. The show also has an effectively uneasy pacing to it. Some streaming shows let their episodes get too relaxed, and the result is like a sloshing pea soup of story and theme, with everything thrown into it rendered unremarkable and homogenous. Mindhunter joggles its episodic logic in a way that feels more purposeful like a deliberately uneven, unsettlingly arrhythmic gait. Maybe the strongest thing working in the shows favor, though, is its weirdly nostalgic sensibility for an era (the 1970s) when serial killers were unfamiliar and exotic. Holden Ford and his partner, Bill Tench, set out to explore the psychology of human monsters, people (lets be honest, men) who feel a compulsion to murder other people (women) in sadistic, frightening, often powerfully bizarre ways. Tenchs initial impulse is to label all of these criminals as deviants and leave it at that, but the primary drive of the show is a process one, a research one. Its Holdens drive. Lets not just dismiss them as opaque monsters, Holden argues. Lets try to study them. Lets try to understand them. It is a disturbing premise about a disturbing topic. Mindhunter capitalizes on all the skin-crawling discomfort of it, largely eschewing bloody tableaux in favor of long, descriptive paragraphs of dialogue about exactly what, and when, and how. And why. Holdens fascination with the criminal mindset becomes ours. Why shoes? Why is it always about mothers? What made him snap? It is also weirdly, freakishly pleasant. Particularly as the series develops, it becomes clear that this process puts a burden on our protagonists, and Mindhunter is certainly not espousing a deep dive into serial-killer mentality as a way to relax. It wants to wind us up; it wants us to feel uneasy. But its central premise is to look at criminality and to decipher it. In Holdens mind, there are puzzles and there are solutions to those puzzles, and his confidence is only underscored by the inevitable institutional blindness about the importance of his work. The forward-moving story is about identifying and capturing criminals and divining new insights into deviancy from men already behind bars its a search for knowledge. And its a successful one. Holden goes looking for answers, and they tend to arrive pretty readily. We are media consumers of the 21st century, so we already know all about shoe fetishists and mothers who twist their sons and sociopathy and murderers who take trophies. Weve all seen Silence of the Lambs. But Holden hasnt, and the crux of the series is a fundamentally nostalgic one. Its about harkening back to a time when the most disturbing, most aberrant, most troubling thing about society was a thing we, the audience, already know well. Mindhunter does the serial-killer psyche well, and it has a valuable, wide-eyed guide to that dark place in the shape of Holden Ford. Still, watching Holden explore the mind of the Co-Ed Killer feels like watching someone play through a level of a video game youve already played a dozen times yourself. Ah yes, you think, as Holden suddenly catches the rhythm of his interviewees thinking. He finally figured out the trick of this one. Its that door. One critical bit of the nostalgic process is watching characters interact with things we already know as though they are new we get the hit of their sense of novelty; we get the smug comfort of our own familiarity. The other piece of it is our sense of distance, and our fondness for something thats lost. Its odd to think of a serial killer as something we might find quaint and pleasantly old-fashioned, but we now live in a world where mass shootings happen with mind-numbing frequency, and hundreds of people shot all at once at a concert earlier this month is an awful event thats already mostly out of the news. So we could think about that, or we could think about Mindhunter. How horrible a serial killing is, with its perverse logic and its sexual torture and freakish peculiarity. How strange. How intentional, how riddle-like, with the associated implication of a solution. How individual. How personal. How old-fashioned. Early in the pilot, Holden talks with a professor who lays out the idea of serial killing as a uniquely modern type of crime. Used to be you find a victim with 50 stab wounds, you look for the jilted lover now, could be a random run-in with a disgruntled mailman. Its a different era, Holden nods in agreement. In the bar, Holden and the professor go on to lay out an idea of serial killing as a response to a newly tumultuous world. Vietnam, Watergate, Kent State the government used to be a parental institution, the professor suggests. Now? The country is full of orphaned children, running amok. Its hard to imagine that theory actually holds much water when presented against historical data. Jack the Ripper, after all, was a man of the 19th century. Their idea is less about historical reality, though, and more about its distinctly nostalgic resonances. A parentless society, casting about in desperation and fear. Unprecedented upheaval in government. Crimes that feel new in their cruelty, their inexplicable horror, their motiveless drive. What could that remind us of? Except this is not 2017, its 1977, and Holden and his team are looking at crimes that terrify them. Holden is astonished and overwhelmed (and a little titillated) by the new, but we know there will soon be, if not answers, then at least a system. Well all learn about profilers. Well all get a sense of the patterns, of the escalations. And well learn something that Holden does not: The crimes he finds so terrifying are, in fact, vanishingly rare. We watch Mindhunter and think fondly of a time when Son of Sam was a national terror, knowing that to be targeted by a serial killer is about as likely as getting hit by a falling piano. Knowing that in our time, it is far likelier that youll get killed by a random bullet, as an anonymous face in a crowd. I dont want to put too much pressure on a Mindhunter is Mad Men but for serial killers parallel, because it implies all sorts of things about Holden Ford that dont bear out, and all sorts of other things about Mindhunter that it doesnt always live up to. But the analogy is really useful in one particular respect: They are both shows about a moment when someone looks at his professional field and says, essentially, What if I applied some more complicated theory of mind to this process? What if I took [my job] and attempted to turn it into storytelling? And theyre also both shows where we look back on a moment before ours and feel a complicated, queasy mixture of nostalgia and knowing distance, wistfulness and contemporary resonance. But Mad Men was always probing the desire to feel nostalgia for a simpler past, pointing back at the contemporary viewer with an unavoidable, accusatory finger. Mindhunter, conversely, is peculiarly pleased to live inside a wistfulness that longs for the novelty of a serial killer. How nice it was, to live in a time when men killed women to symbolically obliterate their own mean moms. How satisfying, to root out the monsters that prowled around largely white, working-class towns and make those towns feel safe again. Lets make America scared of serial killers again. Theyre monsters we know how to fear. Hi there! Im Molly Fitzpatrick, visiting adjunct teaching assistant at the Real Housewives Institute, filling in for Brian Moylan this week while hes off fulfilling his diplomatic duties as the U.S. Ambassador to Scary Island. Im more accustomed to the cloudier, lasagna-ier climes of New Jersey, but I am so excited to be here with you under all these palm trees, surrounded by blonde women talking an awful lot about Jesus. We begin with Vicki as she undergoes a battery of tests at her cardiologists office. Do you detect a broken heart? she asks the nurse, and no, she cannot, although modern medical science most likely could detect the barf in my mouth. I am adamant about trying to figure out how to fix these problems with Tamra and Shannon, Vicki explains in a confessional. I mean, I dont want to die of a stroke because they didnt want to be my friend. This is truly a narcissist masterstroke: laying the foundation for guilt surrounding your death while youre still alive. Her test results arent great. She has an abnormal EKG and extra heart sounds, because everything about Vicki is extra. But lets be very clear about this: While her heart health isnt perfect, Vicki is fine. Her doctor assures her its nothing dangerous. Please bookmark this recap and return to it in the likely event that Vicki interprets this conversation very differently in future weeks. Nevertheless, as shell tell Kelly and her new boobs over dinner at Chez Dodd, she wants to take better care of herself for her children and fill her life with positivity. Ill believe that when I see it, maam. The rest of the women head over to Meghans for a dinner with her personal psychic, Mystic Michaela. (Pro tip: Dont trust any professional, in any field, who doesnt have an alliterative name. Lawyer Laura, Plumber Pete, Gynecologist Gary, etc.) Peggy, who looks like Kim Kardashian in the same way the prom dress you ordered online looks like the picture on the website, is very dismissive when Mystic Michaela offers her an aura color reading. Then Mystical Michaela tells her shes intuitive, and Peggy reacts like shes just been informed that owning multiple two-toned sports cars is an amazing idea. Uh, duh. Been there, done that: I know I know that I know that I know. Well, Peggy didnt miss out. The aura readings couldnt be duller if Mystic Michaela were colorblind. Tamras aura is yellow and purple; Shannons is indigo and yellow. What are the odds that Mystic Michaela has ever told anyone their aura is baby-poop green, or three-year-old coffee stain or a berber-carpet beige? Lydia takes this opportunity to invite everyone including Vicki and Kelly, via speakerphone to Iceland, wheres shes heading to write a review (of the whole country?) for the publication of record that is Nobleman magazine. Im very much looking forward to the television that will come of this trip, because this dull-ass season needs it, but Im also horrified on behalf of Iceland. In this tiny, beautiful country with 10 percent the population of Orange County, the Housewives presence will no doubt result in some kind of devastating ecological disaster. Approximately 90 seconds into the Iceland discussion, Peggy abruptly confronts Shannon for not calling her back about the drama at her anniversary party and whether or not David grilled Diko about Peggys cancer which, oh my God, I am so bored already. Mystical Michaela can probably see my Cheeto-orange aura rising out of my body to escape through the nearest chimney. What kind of pot are you trying to stir? Shannon asks. My feeling pot, Peggy answers, sounding less like a UCLA English major than an alien who learned about human civilization by studying decades-old TV broadcasts from Earth when the signals finally reached her planet. Do you trust your husband? Peggy asks. Has he ever lied to you, about anything else? Holy shit, Peggy. That was ice-cold. Tamras mouth falls open and stays open for at least a minute, like shes animatronic and theres been a sudden power outage at the Magic Kingdoms Hall of Housewives. The women keep on arguing about an encounter between two other people that neither of them was present for until Shannon ends up crying in the bathroom, where Tamra comforts her while audibly peeing. Im calm! Im calm! Shannon shouts, calmly. She and Peggy attempt a one-on-one conversation in the other room, but now its Peggys turn to cry. As she explains later, she wanted to join this group of friends so they could offer her love and support in a time of need which, while Im sympathetic, was probably not the best reason to sign up for a reality show fueled by pettiness and bitchery since 2006. (Unrelated, but the lighting in Peggys interviews is so weird, isnt it? It looks like her hologram is trying to tell Obi-Wan Kenobi hes her only hope.) She and Lydia leave, which means Shannon is free to scream uninterrupted about how people will act like shes the crazy one. Unfortunately, screaming about how youre not the crazy one is scientifically the most effective way to convince people that you are, in fact, the crazy one. Mystic Michaela, meanwhile, is an utter waste of space, having predicted none of this and contributed nothing. Cowering like a RHOC fan who won a walk-on role but is terrified by the brutal reality of filming her favorite TV program, she is a blemish on the psychic legacy of RHOBHs Allison I Can Tell You When She Will Die and What Will Happen to Her Family, I Love That About Me DuBois. I mean, she was vaping in 2010, before we even had a word for vaping! The next day, Shannon goes to see Tamra, whos overwhelmed with gratitude that her estranged daughter, Sidney, invited her to her high-school graduation. But Shannon is not in such a good place. As Tamra correctly suggests in a confessional, since she found out David cheated, her friends life has been in a meltdown. Shannon is absolutely humiliated by her behavior the night before. She admits to Tamra that shes not over her husbands affair like she thought she was, and that her anger over the issues in her relationship led her to lash out inappropriately in all kinds of situations. Im glad to hear her self-awareness, but that doesnt make her marriage any less of a catastrophic bummer. Maybe its for the best that Shannon spends some time away. Also, not for nothing, but David sucks. We leave the ladies at the airport, bound for the land of the midnight sun. Because shes still breastfeeding, 5-month-old Aspen Edmonds is coming along as is Meghans nanny-cousin Bridget but something tells me shell be far from the worst-behaved person on this trip. Holy smokes, has our little Mindy really changed as a person? More important: Is this necessarily a good thing? Just to be clear, Im not talking about Mindys daily intake of doughnuts and cheesesteaks, because even if that does herald in her slow march to diabetes, it is such a core part of Mindy Lahiri, nothing could ever change that. Nor should it. Cheesesteaks always and forever! But like all of those delicious, delicious calories, is Mindys romantic spirit also a core piece of her character? Or has all the heartbreak and divorce crushed that spirit for good? Mindys ex and everyones favorite midwife Brendan Deslaurier sure seems to think that her romantic idealism is one of her more charming qualities, and even though its good to be practical, she shouldnt cast aside her heart completely just because shes had some tough breaks. Its a question that will surely be explored throughout the rest of this final season, but kudos to Brendan for bringing it up. And to think this whole thing started out with Mindy trying to help Brendan. While on their daily commute, Mindy and Morgan come across a man who looks like hes about to jump onto the subway tracks. They pause their debate about content versus content versus contempt long enough to stop him from taking his own life. That man turns out to be Brendan Deslaurier. Even though Brendan ridiculously thinks that doulas should make more money than movie stars and doesnt even know who Ryan Reynolds is (Just Friends?!), Mindy and Morgan decide to help the down-on-his-luck midwife. Brendan is depressed because his brother, Duncan, pushed him out of the practice. When they go to talk some sense into Duncan, they discover that hes gone full 1930s New York banker and theres no turning back. Hes been inspired by the movie Frozen, which, according to Duncan, is about one sibling getting all the attention. Mindy tries to explain that Frozen is actually about sibling love conquering all, and Morgan offers his own interpretation its about the fact that reindeers are better than humans but it is of no use. Duncan declares that hes the Elsa now, bitch. So, instead of mending Brendan and Duncans irreparable relationship, Mindy offers Brendan a job at Schulman and Associates. Although the other doctors arent too thrilled to have a midwife who decides chairs wont be allowed in staff meetings, they have to admit that Brendans pricey services are beneficial, now that theyve learned the practice is having some money issues. Brendan stays! Plus, there is some much juicier drama overtaking the office. Tamras cousin Sheena is back (finally!), and she wants some answers. She tells Jeremy and Anna that after Tamra passed on a bellini at brunch, she figured out that Tamra is pregnant. Tamra informed her that the father is someone from work, but shes raising her baby on her own. Cousin Sheena is pissed. Shes going to yell at every guy in the office until one of them confesses hes the father. Turns out, she doesnt have to go too far. Thanks to a late-night flour excursion to keep his office bread-maker in use (anyone else want an Over My Bread Body apron?), Jeremy spotted Tamra and Jody holding hands and walking into a screening of Tyler Perrys A Very Madea Independence Day. Jody must be the father. And also, if you play with fireworks, you gonna get burnt. Hallelujah! Jeremy and Anna cant help themselves (Anna has a real thirst for office gossip now), so they go to Mindy with the news. As Tamras doctor, Mindy wont tell them anything due to HIPPO (everyones hungry, hungry for some medical secrets), but they have a pretty good idea they are on the right track thanks to the book they found on Tamras desk: Family Affair: The Mary J. Blige Guide to a No Drama Pregnancy. The gang takes their inquisition to Jody, and when he denies it, they go directly to Tamra for answers. She fills her co-workers in: Yes, shes pregnant, but she used a sperm donor. She and Jody arent secretly dating. Jody just loves Madea movies, and if he goes alone, everyone thinks hes a cop. Shes doing her friend a solid. Case closed, right? Unfortunately, when Brendan walks by and sees Morgan hugging Tamra in congratulations, he assumes Tamra told him the info Brendan just discovered thanks to Collette: Morgan is the father. The gasps are as audible as youd imagine. So is the crash that Morgan makes when he immediately faints. Once Morgan comes to, he wants Tamra to know that hes fully in. He may have feet so smelly they made his podiatrist quit the business, but his heart works and he will love Tamra and their baby forever. Its genuinely sweet, but its a lot and Tamra needs to think about it. Naturally, Tamras family said, Hell, no, hes a Shrek, which is hilarious and accurate, but Tamra wants the opinion of the people who really know Morgan, so she gathers the office outside on the rooftop courtyard. (Im loving all these trips down Mindy memory lane.) Jeremy thinks Tamra should go for it because Morgan will always be obsessed with her. But, in a surprise, its Mindy who offers the practical advice to her friend: Its easy for them to encourage Tamra to do the romantic thing, but Tamras the one who will have to live with those consequences. Shell be fine on her own. As Tamra takes it all in, Morgan shows up on the ledge above the courtyard with his grandmothers ring to make a more formal proposal. Before Tamra Brandy Monica Webb (!!) can answer, Morgan topples over the ledge. The second time Morgan comes to, this time in the hospital (and with tales of a group-sex dream that no one wants to hear about), its Tamra who makes the romantic gesture. Her answer is yes! You guys, Tamra and Morgan are getting married. Who wouldve ever guessed this happy ending? If youre keeping track, so far in the final season Jeremy and Anna and Morgan and Tamra have found their way to happily ever after. Jody and Mary Hernandez hit a bump in the road toward their coupling when Mary learned about Jodys rampant womanizing, but something tells me Jody will make up for his less-than-attractive qualities. (Is Garret Dillahunt ever better than in his delivery of Who wouldve thought? Me, dating a woman of my generation.) So, where does that leave Mindy? Brendans suggestion that she not completely close her heart off when he comes in to quit the practice (its too dysfunctional and close-minded) seems to really affect our girl. Will she find love again? Does she even want to? We still have a whole mess of exes to revisit, so maybe well see if the answer lies somewhere in her past. Until then, Ill be searching for Mary J. Bliges parenting book, because I, too, would like to know how to stop babies from hollerating. Photo: Getty Images Wonderstruck, Todd Hayness film adaptation of Brian Selznicks YA book, spans time and space, and is largely silent, letting its spectacular Carter Burwell score do most of the talking. The story moves between the 1920s and 1970s, telling the stories of two children who share an unexplained connection: Ben and Rose (Oakes Fegley and Millicent Simmonds), both deaf orphans traveling to New York to track down their missing parents. After his mothers (Michelle Williams) death, Ben is trying to find the father hes never known; Rose runs away from her cold, distant father to build a relationship with her glamorous mother, a silent film star (Julianne Moore). Haynes was in postproduction on Carol when he got his hands on the ambitious script, written by Selznick himself, full of overlapping timelines and visual metaphors. Though Ben and Roses parallel quests unfurl like a dreamy childhood fantasy, Haynes treats the loneliness and curiosities of his young protagonists with seriousness, and his stunning finale which employs dolls and a big beautiful diorama of New York City will make you leave the theater wanting to call your mom. Ultimately, Wonderstruck gets at an enigma that feels deeply personal: Who were our parents before we were born, and how should we process their interiority? Todd Haynes spoke with Vulture about working with newcomer Simmonds and his frequent star Julianne Moore, the movies spectacular last scene and how his boyfriend keeps up with your Carol memes. Can you tell me how Wonderstruck came together? Sandy Powell, my costume designer, got to know Brian Selznick working with him on Hugo, the Scorsese film. They became very good friends, and she read Wonderstruck. She said something to him about, I can see this being [adapted], and he was telling her that he was going to adapt it to a script, and she was like, What about Todd? And at first, he was like, Todd doesnt do stuff like this. Then he adapted the script. I dont know exactly when that conversation happened and how long it took for him to get a draft out, ready, that he sent me. I was in postproduction on Carol and I read this adaptation of the book. I read the book after I read the script. But already on the page on the script, he had started to really think about how cinematic form and language and style could bring these two stories to life and ignite the interaction between the two: He considered the image and he described the soundtrack and things that screenwriters dont always think about, especially on their first time out. The David Bowie song Space Oddity plays pretty prominently in the movie. Was that song in the description? It was! The Bowie song was in it. There were even things like Deodato, the jazz-funk version of Also Sprach Zarathustra from 2001, the kind of disco song that plays when Julianne Moore is finally introduced in the third act of the movie. I knew the song it was used in a movie by Hal Ashby called Being There with Peter Sellers, and it was kind of a nod to that movie in Brians script. When screenwriters include songs, sometimes directors, their shackles go off, like, Well, I will decide what songs are in my movie! But we tried it and it just felt like the film had earned that moment and it worked so well. Again, it was just a really comprehensive and thoughtful, knowledgeable application of cinema to his book and it floored me. It was kind of irresistible. Wonderstruck speaks so movingly about how lonely it can feel to be a child. How did you work with the child actors? Did you learn things about your directing style? I think what Ive learned over the years with different actors who are professional actors, and adults most of the time, is that you need to be flexible and that every actor approaches how they work differently. Their training is different, how much they like to talk and analyze the character, how much they actually prefer not to. How much they protect something very private in the process of how they get to the character its all different. The best results come when youre flexible and you give them the sense that their method is something you accept and want to protect as well. I think I applied the same basic premise to how I worked with these kids. Kids like to feel that theyre respected, like theyre treated like any adult, that they have the sophistication, the intelligence to be talked to as a professional. The thing though about that age, this age like 12-ish theres something so wise about kids at that age. Theyve garnered so much knowledge of the world by that time, but hormones havent come in yet, adolescence hasnt begun and sort of distorted the way we see things, especially in the case of boys. They have a sort of clear-sightedness that I think is pretty exceptional and I felt that with these kids. Can you tell me about Millicents audition? When we solicited tapes from the deaf kids for this role, we asked them to begin with signing who they were, telling us a little bit about themselves in sign language. Its this language that calls on the hands, the face, the body, gestures, expressions and everyone signs differently, the way we all speak differently. With Milly, there was such a sense of her whole being being communicated to me when I saw her sign. She described how much she loved the language, ASL, and how much it meant to her. And one sensed that her experience and her consciousness of being a deaf kid provided her with tremendous strength and an outlook on the world that was something she derived great joy in and specificity in, that she felt like she had a self-possession that came through. I just kind of fell in love with her when I saw it and my casting director, Laura Rosenthal, who Ive worked with for years, I know she felt the same way. We both kind of didnt say anything to each other because we didnt jinx it, we wanted to be as objective as possible and keep watching each stage of the process unfold and she just kept flooring us. The amazing thing is she doesnt sign in the movie, because Rose doesnt speak sign language. Milly had some, I dont know what it is, but some sense of the camera or of communicating herself emotionally in a medium that picks up such nuance, that she trusted that you never have to overexpress. That you can hold back, that there can be a mystery, there can be secrets that you preserve in your performance. And, again, I dont know how conscious this is, but thats the result, and thats why I think the performance is as powerful as it is. Its nuanced, its understated, its sensitive. Thats something you cant teach somebody. Thats something innate. Its kind of unbelievable. Youve worked with Julianne Moore throughout your career. Did anything she did in Wonderstruck surprise you? Julie always surprises me. Julie surprises me in films that I dont direct, when I see her performances in other peoples films. In Wonderstruck she has a nonspeaking, sort of double role, with even a third movie within a movie in the black-and-white portion. Shes playing a deaf woman who did sign in her adult years. But something that happens when Im watching her in the room when were shooting, sometimes I dont see exactly what shes doing. Again, exactly in the way that I was talking about Millicent, that its so nuanced, understands the calibration of the lens in a way that you dont always see it with the naked eye when youre shooting until we get the footage back and we cut the scene together that Im like, Oh, wow. A level of depth and emotion kind of is revealed in what she was doing that, of course, she must have known what she was doing all along. But its a certain kind of restraint that she just knows how to manage that I just find continually surprising when I see it working emotionally on the viewer. The stop-motion finale, where Julianne brings this little boy to a diorama of New York City and tells him the story of her life and how his parents met, was so spectacular. How did you film that scene? It was actually not stop-motion. We shot it in live-action, they were kind of conducted like little puppets. It was sort of scripted as a traditional flashback, but it made sense to give it a different characteristic in the movie, and it was not too many steps to come to the diorama as a conveyer of this sequence, because it was Ben reading Rosas story. Its what hes been anticipating through the whole film, so hes visualizing it in his mind. But what we wanted to do is have it be depicted in a way that was relevant to the story, the language of the film as a whole and something that he had an affinity to, which was the diorama. That wolf diorama is the central core of the narrative that has haunted him, and we know later that it has a narrative that reflects back on his life. So that was really the thinking behind how those little tableaus were conceived. Its very similar to one of your first shorts, where you used Barbie dolls to tell the story of Karen Carpenter. Yes, and similarly, that was also done like little dolls in miniature not stop-motion, but also manipulated little dolls. Again, in both cases, I think theres a kind of naivete in the style. In the case of Wonderstruck, its because its from a kids point of view filtered through how hes imagining it, but in Karen Carpenter, it was in the idea of kids playing with dolls. Something that kids do, that we all do on some level when were kids, as a way of describing how certain ideas of the female body and self-image are formed. What were you like as a child? I grew up in L.A. well, okay, Encino, the San Fernando Valley. But I had parents that wanted to expose us to museums and art and movies and concerts, and grandparents who were culturally active and took us to the symphony and museums and on trips, and so I felt very lucky to be exposed to all that stuff. There were certain films that I saw all through my childhood that were always just a little bit advanced for me, just a little bit beyond my reach as a kid. And I think that just made me more creatively aroused by that, turned on by that and obsessed by it kind of like, I want to understand this. Which movies? Well, probably the first sophisticated movie I saw was when I was seven when Zeffirellis Romeo and Juliet came out in 1968. Its a beautiful, lyrical treatment of Romeo and Juliet with the youngest ever actors playing those roles to that point. I think they were really 14 and 15 years old. It was the height of the hippie, counterculture era. The movie meant a great deal to young people, teenagers in the 60s, because they all looked like hippies and they all had their long hair. I saw its effect on people around me and I was like, Wow, this is plugging into contemporary society, but using this early Italian renaissance setting and story to do so. It was erotic and a little mature for me. [Laughs.] But I think it made me stretch my mind and my imagination. Do you keep up with all the Carol memes on the internet? Oh my God. [Whispers.] I dont I mean, Im not sure. I see so many amazing things. My boyfriend Bryan navigates it for me and shows me stuff. Its taken on a life of its own. It has taken on a culture of its own. And theres such love and feeling for that film, its brought together a lot of people from different countries and experiences of lesbians all over the world. And its so witty. The Harold, theyre lesbians meme is one of them. Its just been a sort of continual pleasure to watch unfold. This interview has been edited and condensed. Photo: eOne Of all the great ensembles in rap music, the nearly quarter-century-long career of a group of MCs and DJs from Staten Island and Brooklyn called the Wu-Tang Clan has proven to be the most vibrant, entertaining and perplexing. Like the midlife revivals of rappers like Jay-Z and Nas, their continuing relevance also upends the theory that hip-hop has no truck with longevity. The groups latest album, The Saga Continues, returns the MCs to the same mold as its 1993 debut, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). It also marks the first time RZA has relinquished full control to another producer; in this case, Mathematics, the groups longtime DJ. RZAs understudy first emerged in the late 90s, on albums by second-tier affiliates like Killarmy and Cappadonna (who would go on to have a much more prominent place in Wu-Tangs legacy). In the years since, and on solo albums by Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and GZA, he has produced the kind of bullish solo tracks associated with the groups early days, and proven himself to be a worthy custodian of their brash style, as RZAs production ventured into more experimental, esoteric places. For The Saga Continues, Mathematics went back to the source. He drew inspiration from Enter the Wu-Tang. The last Wu-Tang group album, 2014s A Better Tomorrow, only occasionally touched on the core ingredients lyrical wizardry, propulsive crime sagas, and Eastern mysticism that initially made them so distinctive. It was not overly reverent of the groups history, but it didnt push their sound in new directions either. In short, it wasnt clear why it existed. On The Saga Continues, Mathematics skews deliberately toward the groups founding principles of soul samples, martial-arts dialogue, distorted beats, and criminology. It bristles with the kind of tall tales which characterize their earliest and most poetic work. Like much of the groups most celebrated albums, The Saga Continues owes little to the year in which it was created. It exists in a bubble, outside of the current trends in hip-hop. Wu-Tang Clan have been around long enough that just adhering to the sound they helped pioneer is a genre in itself. For the most part, the album is also a reminder to the groups early adopters that the last two and half decades have provided periods of frequently astonishing music. After an initial burst of critically and financially successful group albums, and intricate RZA-helmed solo albums by Ol Dirty Bastard, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and GZA, the producer began to outsource beats to producers like Puff Daddy and in-house trainees like Goldfingaz. Method Mans Tical 2000: Judgement Day, released in 1998, featured only three songs produced by RZA, and he was entirely absent from Cappadonnas 2013 album, Eyrth, Wynd & Fyre. Yet as RZA moved to filmmaking and collaborated with groups outside hip-hop, the Wu-Tang Clans rappers have proven to be wise stewards of their legacy, occasionally voicing their displeasure at their leaders absences, while steadily releasing albums which tack closely to his original vision. The Saga Continues is no different: On the most accomplished tracks on the album, Mathematics has created a mosaic of 70s-inspired soul music, and taps each MC to perform on key. The rappers, for the most part, deliver their verses with a mixture of world-weary knowledge and renewed energy. On the intro, over moody strings, RZA croaks: Check it out, Zig-Zag, 2017, continue like Buck Rogers in the 21st century and we still gotta duck the fucking coppers? All of this is communicated in a kind of cross-pollinated slang which, nearly 25 years after Enter the Wu-Tang was released, can still leave listeners scratching their heads. As with all Wu-Tang Clan albums, those entrants unfamiliar with the Wu universe might have a steep learning curve ahead of them. Though The Saga Continues is a strong, cohesive return to form for the group, it also speaks to hip-hop individualism. Each member was able to embark on a distinctive, mostly successful solo career, but when they reunited it was always apparent even if they faltered that their creativity was ignited by their unique collaborative relationship. In the Wu-Tang Clan, RZA has assembled a hip-hop orchestra, but its clear that, decades after their blockbuster debut, theyre still accomplished soloists. An attack by the Taliban on a police training center in Afghanistan's eastern Paktia province has killed at least 14 people, including civilians. By AP: An attack by the Taliban on a police training center in Afghanistan's eastern Paktia province has killed at least 14 people, including civilians, said an Afghan health official. Health Ministry spokesman Waheed Majroo says that dozens were also wounded in the attack on Tuesday in Gardez, the provincial capital. He says the city hospital reported receiving 130 wounded in the attack, which included a suicide bombing. advertisement Hamza Aqmhal, a student at the Paktia University, told The Associated Press that he heard a very powerful blast. He says it shattered glass and broke all the windows at the building he was in. He says the university is about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from the training academy. Aqmhal says he was slightly injured by the glass. A lawmaker from Paktia, Mujeeb Rahman Chamkni, says the provincial chief police, Toryalai Abdyani, and several of his staff were among those killed in the attack. He says most of the casualties are civilians who had come to the center, which also serves a government passport department. Reports from Gardez say the attack there is still underway. --- ENDS --- The Heart of Texas Storytelling Guild will present Walking Tales at the historic Oakwood Cemetery from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Interpreters stationed throughout the cemetery will give voice to the many renowned, legendary and infamous people laid to rest there. The event is free. For more information, contact Vivian Rutherford at 717-1763 or by email at vivian.rutherford@thestorylady.org. Federal employees The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association will hold its monthly meeting at the West Waco Library meeting room from 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday. The library is located at 5301 Bosque Blvd. The speaker will be dog handler Lynn Brown and feature Tara, his pet partner-registered therapy dog. Topics will include therapy and service-dog training and utilization. Genealogy Lock-In The Central Texas Genealogical Society and West Waco Genealogy Center host the 17th annual Genealogy Lock-In on Friday from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. at the West Waco Library, 5301 Bosque Blvd. It is a day of genealogy-related programs, local and professional genealogists, hereditary societies and local and statewide organizations. The event is free and is a come-and-go meeting, with security provided for the evening hours. Call 745-6018 for more information. Knights of Columbus Knights of Columbus Council 7202 hosts its 39th annual festival Sunday at Geneva Hall in Elm Mott. Dinner is from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Raffle tickets for prizes are now on sale for $1 each. For more information, call 749-0771. Panhellenic Fall Social The Waco Alumnae Panhellenic Association invites all Greek sorority women in the Waco area to a Fall Meet and Greet Social at the Clifton House on Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. Members should feel free to wear their badges, sorority T-shirts or other regalia. For questions, contact Lynn Allen at lhallenbama65@gmail.com or 715-0934. Crawfords 150th The city of Crawford hosts its 150th birthday celebration Saturday from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. in downtown Crawford. The event features a parade, car show, model train display, music, food, crafts booths and historical and genealogical booths. The event is free and hosted by the Crawford Chamber of Commerce. Jacob Carrizal led members of the Dallas Bandidos chapter into the Twin Peaks parking lot and was at the forefront when the battle began with the Cossacks, a rival motorcycle group, a motorcycle gang expert testified Monday. Douglas Pearson, a policeman from Colorado assigned to a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives motorcycle gang task force, spent his third partial day on the stand Monday in Carrizals trial in Wacos 54th State District Court. Carrizal, 35, an employee of the Dallas, Garland and Northeastern Railroad, is charged with directing the activities of a criminal street gang and two counts of engaging in organized criminal activity. He is the first of the 154 bikers indicted in the Twin Peaks shootout to stand trial. Pearson spent most of his time on the stand Monday under cross-examination from Carrizals attorney, Casie Gotro, who is trying to impress on the jury the defense theory that the Cossacks, not the Bandidos, were the aggressors that day, that the Cossacks put a bounty on Bandidos members and set a trap for the Bandidos at Twin Peaks by crashing a meeting of a biker coalition of which they were not members. Pearson, who made it clear in his testimony that he would not change his opinion that the Bandidos are a criminal street gang, said he saw the skirmish as tit-for-tat, gang-on-gang violence. He said the Cossacks also are a criminal street gang in his estimation. Under questioning from Gotro, Pearson, a 26-year law enforcement veteran, said he has seen evidence on Carrizals cellphone where he urged Bandidos to bring their tools, or guns, dont travel alone, leave the women at home, dont tolerate disrespect and this is the life we have chosen. Gotro asked if if those sentiments arent a far cry from the evidence indicating Cossacks advocating violence against the Bandidos, showing up at Twin Peaks wearing bulletproof vests and ambushing the Bandidos before they could dismount their motorcycles at Twin Peaks. Does that not tell you that one side was the aggressor and the other side was not? Gotro asked. Is it not significant to you that the president of one group is telling members to send members of another group to the hospital? Both sides showed up ready to engage in battle, Pearson said. Gotro asked if he didnt think it wise for the Bandidos to carry weapons when members had a bounty on their heads and had been assaulted by Cossacks in March 2015 on Interstate 35, prompting state troopers to beef up patrols along the route to curtail biker violence. Gotro showed a Cossacks sticker to the jury that she said clearly is meant as an affront to the Bandidos. The sticker said, Hide and Seek Champions 2015, and Gotro said it shows the Cossacks were calling out the Bandidos, but the Bandidos were not responding. Pearson reiterated that, in his opinion, the problems between the two groups escalated when the Cossacks decided to wear Texas bottom rocker patches on their vests without getting permission from the Bandidos, who claim the Lone Star State as their territory. Gotro showed the jury a post from a Cossacks vice president in July 2014 that said the Cossacks were going to wear the rockers and that the two groups could coexist. Pearson, however, said he has seen emails from Bandidos leaders who were not so keen with that arrangement. Pearson told Gotro that Carrizal led a group of Bandidos into the Twin Peaks parking lot and didnt seem intimidated by the Cossacks, who outnumbered the Bandidos by a wide margin. He couldnt see who threw the first punch, but it occurred in the area where Carrizal stopped his motorcycle, Pearson said. Gotro asked him why law enforcement, who was aware of the ongoing violence between the groups, didnt stop the Coalition of Clubs and Independents from meeting at Twin Peaks that day. Pearson said Waco police made efforts to stop the meeting, but said they cant just stop people from traveling about freely when they are committing no crimes. After Pearson left the stand, Gotro asked Judge Matt Johnson to strike his testimony from the record in its entirety. The judge rejected her motion. In testimony Monday afternoon, prosecutors laid the groundwork for the admission of biker cellphone records by calling a Waco police officer, a retired police officer and an evidence technician. Waco police collected a total of 211 cellphones from the bikers and analyzed their contents or sent them to a lab in New Jersey for analysis. Prosecutors had to recall one of the police witnesses, Daniel Harper, after Gotro testified that his name was not on a witness list provided by District Attorney Abel Reynas office. She complained several times before trial that prosecutors had given her a potential witness list of 600 names. Eventually, that list was pared to 450, but Gotro still complained that it was not a realistic number. Harper left the stand temporarily until Johnson granted the state permission for a last-second amendment to its witness list. Harper was a necessary witness in the states attempt to prove proper chain-of-custody in the handling of the cellphones. Prosecution testimony resumes at 9 a.m. Tuesday. John D. Mayfield, III Nov. 26, 1929 - Oct. 15, 2017 John D. Mayfield, III, 87, lifelong resident of Waco, died on Sunday, October 15, 2017, at Providence Hospice Place in Waco. A visitation hosted by his family will be held 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 18, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 515 Columbus Avenue, in Waco, where Mr. Mayfield will lie in state in the Chapel of the Four Sister's adjacent to the church sanctuary. The funeral will be conducted at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, October 19, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. A reception will follow in the Church Parish Hall. A family internment will be held at Oakwood Cemetery after the reception. Mr. Mayfield will lie in state at the church Thursday morning prior to the service. Developed by researchers at the Harvard University, the artificial pancreas system consists of an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor placed under the user's skin. By Indo-Asian News Service: Researchers have successfully developed an artificial pancreas system that uses an algorithm on smartphone to continuously monitor glucose levels of the user and automatically delivers appropriate levels of insulin -- a game changer for diabetic patients. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Thus people with the disease must vigilantly monitor blood glucose levels and, when necessary, administer doses of insulin either via needle injections or infusion pump. advertisement Developed by researchers at the Harvard University, the artificial pancreas system consists of an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor placed under the user's skin. Also Read: How can you prevent diabetes? An advanced control algorithm embedded in a bluetooth-connected smartphone signals how much insulin the pump should deliver to the patient based on a range of variables including meals consumed, physical activity, sleep, stress and metabolism. For the study, published in the journal Diabetes Care, the team analysed the use of the novel artificial pancreas system for more than 60,000 hours on participants in a 12-week, multi-site clinical trial. The results showed significant decrease in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and reduced time spent in hypoglycemia. A wrong dose can lead to hypoglycemia, which can then cause depressed mood, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, hunger and inability to concentrate. More serious consequences include coma, disorientation and seizures. Also Read: Drinking tea will keep you away from diabetes, claims study "This is by far the longest duration trial we have conducted, and it is a testament to the robustness of the algorithm that our key performance indices were maintained from our earlier, shorter trials," said Frank Doyle from the Harvard University. In addition, the team introduced adaptive components that allowed the algorithm to "learn" from the repeated daily cycles, leading to improvements in basal control as well as meal compensation. --- ENDS --- Lloyd David Williams August 25, 1941 - October 14, 2017 Lloyd David Williams, 76, of Waco, passed away on Saturday, October 14, 2017. The family will receive visitors from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, October 19, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Dr. Lloyd was born on August 25, 1941, to Denton Williams and Dessie Chambers, in Gatesville, Texas. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He worked hard all his life. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Douglas and Roy Williams; and sister, Yvonne Pate. He is survived by his daughters, Brenda Graeter and husband, Steve, and Janet Reeves and husband, David; grandchildren, Jeremie Reeves, Daniel Reeves, Trevor Reeves, Meagan Borders, John Taylor Schoeneman, and their spouses; and several great-grandchildren. The family wishes to express their gratitude to Southern Care Hospice for their excellent care and love. Online guestbook at www.pecangrovefuneral.com. Team Trump is quite familiar with lobbing stones from their glass house. Two of the presidents children complained about the viciousness of politics, defending a father who redefined viciousness as a candidate. President Trump himself accused San Juans mayor of politicizing tragedy, despite his own tendency to do the same repeatedly. The White House said ESPNs Jemele Hill should be fired for calling Trump a white supremacist, even as Trump earlier called then-President Obama a racist. It has also said attacking Trump is unpatriotic, despite Trump questioning Obamas very legitimacy as president. And on and on. But even by its standards, going there on Democrats and Harvey Weinstein is pretty brazen. Donald Trump Jr. has been tweeting about Weinstein for the better part of the last week: On Oct. 10, he tweeted: It only took 5 days and Weinstein being removed from power for Hillary to get outraged. Im shocked! On Oct. 12: But no one knew... On Oct. 13, Ahhh Hollywood, our moral authority. What would we do without their guidance? and Nice! Old Clip Resurfaces of Kimmel Having Women Guess Whats In His Pants: Maybe Put Your Mouth On It On Oct. 15, OMG . . . he feels sad for Harvey? Are you fricken kidding me? and Its not a witch hunt when its actually happening and if you think its not after the past two weeks I have to question your motives. Trump Jr.s arguments seem to boil down to two things: 1) Weinstein is clearly guilty, given the volume of accusers and 2) Hollywood and Democrats are too willing to stand up for or at least too reluctant to criticize Weinstein. Both of those arguments, though, could just as easily be applied to his fathers own myriad sexual harassment allegations and the Republicans who have stood by him. Eleven women came forward before the 2016 election to accuse Trump of touching them without consent, and while many Republicans initially rebuked Trump, upon his election the party has stood by him in almost lock-step. There are plenty of other similarities, too, including Trump and Weinstein both allegedly abusing their public stature, and recordings of both Trump and Weinstein talking about sexually harassing women. Its not like this is an old story; there is a defamation lawsuit stemming from one of those claims pending against Trump right now in New York. Filed in January, the lawsuit was brought on behalf of Summer Zervos, one of the 11 women. Trump has denied all the allegations. Zervos, a California restaurant owner, had been a contestant on the Trump reality show The Apprentice in 2006. After the show ended, she said she accepted a 2007 meeting with Trump at a Beverly Hills hotel. She said she believed it was to discuss a possible job opportunity at the Trump Organization. Instead, she alleged that Trump aggressively kissed and groped her. Her lawsuit does not technically accuse Trump of sexual harassment. Instead, it argues that Trump defamed her when he denied her account during the presidential campaign. Trump had insisted that she and other women who made claims against him were lying and advancing a hoax. Trump promised to sue the women almost exactly one year ago, but he has not made good on that threat. If the lawsuit proceeds, however, the issue of whether Zervoss allegations about Trumps behavior are true will become key to the case. She and her attorney, Gloria Allred, have indicated this would demand internal documents from Trumps company that would shed light on Zervoss 2007 encounter with Trump and, maybe more importantly, will seek to require Trump to testify under oath. Such a deposition could open the president to uncomfortable questions about his interaction with Zervos and his history with other women, too. If he were not fully honest under oath, it could also lead to legal jeopardy for the president. When President Bill Clinton lied under oath during a similar deposition in a sexual harassment case brought by former Arkansas worker Paula Jones, it set off a series of events that led to his impeachment. Trump and his lawyers have moved to dismiss the case. They argue that the president should be immune from civil lawsuits filed in state courts while in office. (The Supreme Court ruled in the Jones case that the president can be sued in federal court, but the ruling did not address state courts.) They also argue Trumps statements about Zervos were merely heated campaign-season rhetoric and, besides, Trump continues to maintain that his denials about Zervos were true and that he did not harass her. The next brief in the case is due Oct. 31, and a judge is likely to rule sometime after that whether to dismiss the case or allow it to move forward. Given that backdrop, it would be one thing for Trump Jr. and Trumps supporters to argue that Weinstein is benefiting from a double-standard that the president did not and that has indeed been part of their argument. But to suggest Weinstein is clearly guilty and that his allies must denounce him because of how many women have come forward with unproven allegations is an extremely slippery slope for Team Trump. The GOP establishment more broadly has been pretty hands-off on the Weinstein matter recognizing the peril in bringing up such a similar set of circumstances. When the Republican National Committee does bring it up, for example, its to point to Democrats who denounced Trump and have been far less active in denouncing Weinstein, a top Democratic donor and fundraiser. But Trump Jr. clearly has far less compunction about applying a different standard to Weinstein than to his father. And just about everything he tweeted above could be tweeted at his own flesh and blood. At this point, though, that shouldnt really be surprising from Team Trump. This content is expired! Unfortunely this content is expired and cannot be viewed anymore; if You are the owner of this content please login to our Website, go to our access panel and enable this content again. 5-30 Nov. Under the theme Jazz is My Religion, Rome's annual rendezvous with jazz returns with an impressive line-up of Italian and international acts. This year the Roma Jazz Festival celebrates its 41st anniversary with a longer than usual concert programme at the Auditorium Parco della Musica and other venues around the city such as Casa del Jazz and Alcatraz. Dayme Arocena at Live Alcazar on 7 Nov. Festival highlights include Chick Corea, Steve Gadd Sextet (5 Nov), Dayme Arocena (7 Nov), Mulatu Astatke & Steps Ahead Band (12 Nov), Tribute to Louis Armstrong (18 Nov), Omar Sosa & Seckou Keita Trio (23 Nov), and Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles (28 Nov). Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles on 28 Nov. The programme also commemorates a series of significant dates in the history of jazz: the centenary since the release of the first jazz album and the birth of jazz greats Thelonious Monk, Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie, and the 50th anniversary since the passing of John Coltrane. For full programme details see festival website. By PTI: (Eds: Repeating after correcting a figure in para 4) Mumbai, Oct 17 (PTI) Bajaj Auto, which today reported a marginal dip in net profit at Rs 1,193.6 crore in the three months to September, said it will start exporting its premium bikes to Australia and Thailand this fiscal. The Pune-based automaker also said it is "on track" to achieve the target of selling four million vehicles, including in the overseas markets, in the current fiscal. advertisement The company attributed the fall in net income to lower sales as well as a 13.3 per cent decline in other income quarter from Rs 297.2 crore due to lower investment income. Hit by higher input costs, lower sales and a dip in other income, its consolidated net declined about one per cent to Rs 1,194 crore from Rs 1,200 crore a year-ago. "The quarter was good. We had the highest-ever turnover, an Ebidta margin of 20.8 per cent and an over 20 per cent market share in domestic motorcycle segment,"S Ravikumar, president--business development at Bajaj Auto told PTI in a post-earnings concall today. During the quarter, the company sold 10,71,510 units, up 4 per cent from 10,31,945 units a year ago. Ravikumar said their market share in the motorcycle segment in the domestic has been improving month-on-month, adding, "last couple of quarters we were impacted by new emission norms, transition to GST, among others. All that has now been sorted out and things are now falling in place." He attributed the fall in the Ebidta, which used generally used to be above 20 per cent, to the GST, BSIII and discounted sales by the competition. "The focus in the current quarter is to get back to the 20 per cent market share and plus 20 per cent Ebidta that has been achieved," he said. He said its premium offering Pulsar, including Pulsar NS 200 CC and Pulsar NS 160 cc and Avenger are doing very well with 45 per cent market share while in the lower segment, the City and Platina have 35-36 per cent market share. The Pulsar NS 160 was added in the June quarter but the company had the full quarter benefit in this quarter very well, he said. In September, Bajaj had sold more than 1.12 lakh Pulsars which was the highest ever monthly sales, he said. These products have just been introduced but even after the festival season the sale of the new product is expected to continue to be good going forward in the two subsequent quarters, Ravikumar said. Be it commercial vehicle or three-wheeler or domestic Bajaj has done very well, he said, adding exports has been consistently good. advertisement "Though the raw material prices are hardening a bit, we will be able to deliver profitability beyond 20 per cent Ebidta and fairly a good set of numbers," he said. "Bajaj effected a marginal increase in its prices due to the higher input costs and going forward, I think whatever price increases in the input side, the cost increases, we are quite comfortable that we should be able to pass on these increased costs entirely to the customer," he said. He said the company has already started exporting its vehicles in the previous quarter to Malaysia and the exports to Australia and Thailand are getting added in the next two quarters. Despite a poor numbers, the street lapped up the Bajaj counter with the shares closing at Rs 3,257 or up 1.09 per cent on the BSE on a dull trade, wherein the benchmark Sensex closed 0.08 per cent down after a week of rally to historic highs. PTI IAS BEN RMT NP --- ENDS --- DESPITE the pressing need to do so, over half of all Irish people say they could not afford an average cost of 56,000 to... CHANGES to the junction between New Street and Barrack Street have backfired, becoming yet another source of traffic chaos in the heart of the... Port of Waterford has estimated that it would generate 3.5m this summer with the return of cruise ships for the first time in two... Embattled department store chain Myer has moved to address criticisms about a lack of retail experience on its board by appointing Julie Ann Morrison as a director. Myer's announcement on Tuesday of Ms Morrison's appointment comes after last week's move to fast-track the replacement of chairman Paul McClintock with Garry Hounsell. "The board believes that as a result of her wide experience in fashion and retail Julie Ann is well placed to make a valuable contribution to the Myer Board," said chairman-elect Mr Hounsell whose new position becomes effective at the company's annual general meeting in November Ms Morrison already has experience with Myer, having served as a director for about 18 months of the subsidiary board which operates the sass & bide fashion brand. For Americans the issue for 60 years has been whether JFK's assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald, acted alone, or was assisted by either the Russians the CIA or the Mob, depending on whose conspiracy theory you choose to believe. The rough equivalent of this issue in Australia concerns the Dismissal of 11 November 1975 when the governor-general Sir John Kerr suddenly withdrew the commission of the government of Gough Whitlam. Sir John always maintained that, beyond advice received by Sir Garfield Barwick, the chief justice of the High Court, and his conversations with Sir Anthony Mason, he acted alone, with no intervention from Buckingham Palace. It is a point equally stoutly maintained by Australian monarchists, as it goes right to the heart of the integrity, or lack thereof, of Australian sovereignty under our system of a constitutional monarchy. The Queen's men met with Sir John Kerr four weeks before the Dismissal. Credit:AP If Kerr acted alone, it was whatever the outrage at least an all-Australian affair. If he acted with input of either or both of an unelected Sovereign and her unelected officials, then it was the exemplar of an outrageous intervention by foreigners in Australian affairs, which demonstrates exactly why we need to be a republic! (And yes, I am chair of the Australian Republic Movement, but we'll get to that.) Enter Professor Jenny Hocking. For on Monday, the news broke that thanks to her prodigious research for her book The Dismissal Dossier to be released on Wednesday Kerr did not act alone. Hocking's analysis reveals that unelected British officials, and very likely the Queen herself, were aware that Australia's democratically elected leader was likely going to be dismissed well before Gough himself, and in the case of the officials at least even took part in meetings that helped make it happen. Seven members of the US Congress met for an informal dinner last Wednesday. They took off their jackets and ties and ordered Chinese takeaway. While the ambience was relaxed, the topic was deadly serious. They'd invited two American experts on the North Korean nuclear confrontation to brief them. The congressmen and senators were all from the Democratic Party, but the experts were drawn from both main parties. The Republican briefer was Randy Schriver, who is expected to be appointed by the Trump administration as the senior Asia policy official in the Pentagon shortly. Schriver is a Harvard-trained national security expert with nearly 30 years' experience in the US Navy, State Department and Defence Department, specialising in Asia-Pacific Affairs and a protege of former US deputy secretary of state Richard Armitage. The Democrat was Wendy Sherman, who negotiated with the North Koreans as an official in the Clinton administration. More recently she was the lead US negotiator in crafting the nuclear deal with Iran. There was a good deal of back and forth. But the striking outcome was that, when it came to US options for preemptive military strikes against North Korea's nuclear weapons program, the two experts were as one - there aren't any. Or, at least, no good ones. More specifically, any US military strike would risk a massive retaliation and escalation. By PTI: Mumbai, Oct 17 (PTI) Bajaj Auto, which today reported a marginal dip in net profit at Rs 1,193.6 crore in the three months to September, said it will start exporting its premium bikes to Australia and Thailand this fiscal. The Pune-based automaker also said it is "on track" to achieve the target of selling four million vehicles, including in the overseas markets, in the current fiscal. advertisement The company attributed the fall in net income to lower sales as well as a 13.3 per cent decline in other income quarter from Rs 297.2 crore due to lower investment income. Hit by higher input costs, lower sales and a dip in other income, its consolidated net declined 6 per cent to Rs 1,194 crore from Rs 1,200 crore a year-ago. "The quarter was good. We had the highest-ever turnover, an Ebidta margin of 20.8 per cent and an over 20 per cent market share in domestic motorcycle segment,"S Ravikumar, president--business development at Bajaj Auto told PTI in a post-earnings concall today. During the quarter, the company sold 10,71,510 units, up 4 per cent from 10,31,945 units a year ago. Ravikumar said their market share in the motorcycle segment in the domestic has been improving month-on-month, adding, "last couple of quarters we were impacted by new emission norms, transition to GST, among others. All that has now been sorted out and things are now falling in place." He attributed the fall in the Ebidta, which used generally used to be above 20 per cent, to the GST, BSIII and discounted sales by the competition. "The focus in the current quarter is to get back to the 20 per cent market share and plus 20 per cent Ebidta that has been achieved," he said. He said its premium offering Pulsar, including Pulsar NS 200 CC and Pulsar NS 160 cc and Avenger are doing very well with 45 per cent market share while in the lower segment, the City and Platina have 35-36 per cent market share. The Pulsar NS 160 was added in the June quarter but the company had the full quarter benefit in this quarter very well, he said. In September, Bajaj had sold more than 1.12 lakh Pulsars which was the highest ever monthly sales, he said. These products have just been introduced but even after the festival season the sale of the new product is expected to continue to be good going forward in the two subsequent quarters, Ravikumar said. Be it commercial vehicle or three-wheeler or domestic Bajaj has done very well, he said, adding exports has been consistently good. advertisement "Though the raw material prices are hardening a bit, we will be able to deliver profitability beyond 20 per cent Ebidta and fairly a good set of numbers," he said. "Bajaj effected a marginal increase in its prices due to the higher input costs and going forward, I think whatever price increases in the input side, the cost increases, we are quite comfortable that we should be able to pass on these increased costs entirely to the customer," he said. He said the company has already started exporting its vehicles in the previous quarter to Malaysia and the exports to Australia and Thailand are getting added in the next two quarters. Despite a poor numbers, the street lapped up the Bajaj counter with the shares closing at Rs 3,257 or up 1.09 per cent on the BSE on a dull trade, wherein the benchmark Sensex closed 0.08 per cent down after a week of rally to historic highs. PTI IAS BEN RMT --- ENDS --- Time for me to call it a day. What happened? the Turnbull government announced its energy policy ; ; power companies will be required to meet a reliability standard and a carbon pollution standard ; will be required to meet a and a ; the government says this will ensure coal is still an integral part of the energy mix but also provide an incentive to use renewable energy ; is still an integral part of the energy mix but also provide an incentive to use ; the new mantra is energy that is 'reliable, affordable and responsible' ; ; Chief Scientist Alan Finkel says the policy looks like it will do what it says it will; says the policy looks like it will do what it says it will; but first the government must secure the support of the states and territories which is not a sure thing. My thanks to Andrew Meares and Alex Ellinghausen for their magical work and to you for reading and commenting. You can follow me on Facebook. Alex, Andrew and I will be back in the morning. Until then, go well. Those findings helped win the 2017 Nobel Prize for Physics, announced just a fortnight ago, for American scientists Rainer Weiss, Barry Barish and Kip Thorne. An illustration of gravitational waves produced by two orbiting black holes. Credit:Henze/NASA/LIGO Three other black hole mergers had been detected since the original discovery in 2015 each of which caused a stir among scientists. But it was the discovery using gravitational waves of a neutron star merger about to happen that has scientists predicting that a revolution in astronomy is about to unfold. The Nobel Prize committee's award was "so last year", jokes Paul Lasky, a postdoctoral research fellow in gravitational-wave astrophysics at Monash. "The fact that the Nobel Prize keeps us interested for only a week now is just indicative that it is the birth of a new science." Susan Scott, a professor at ANU's Research School of Physics and Engineering, and a member of the LIGO scientific collaboration. Credit:Stuart Hay That new field, gravitational wave astronomy, will likely produce more observations of neutron star collisions and other phenomena as scientists know what to look for and where, and have the instruments to do so. "Over the next five years, we're going to see lots of these [events]," Dr Lasky said. "The amount of physics and the amount of science we're going to be able to do with these is just remarkable." Paul Lasky, Lecturer and Future Fellow at the Monash Centre for Astrophysics' School of Physics and Astronomy. Kept under wraps How the discovery was largely kept under wraps is among the surprising aspects of the past eight weeks. Teams involved in the LIGO Scientific Collaboration themselves totalled about 1100 scientists, while the researchers involved in turning what Professor Scott calls "an avalanche" of space-based and terrestrial telescopes to a portion of the night sky numbered another 2400 people. Sydney University's Associate Professor Tara Murphy and PhD candidate Dougal Dobie joined the scientific rush to observe the binary neutron star merger. Credit:Nick Moir Those operating the two detectors at LIGO or Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory spotted the last moments of the death spiral before the two neutron stars merged. They then sent out alerts to a private email list of collaborators. Tara Murphy, an associate professor of physics at the University of Sydney and an author of the Science paper out on Tuesday, happened to be at a conference on Variable Radio Sources "the exact topic of this work", she says when the message went out on the morning of August 17. Leading CSIRO scientists who helped to develop some of the LIGO detection equipment (from left) Anatoli Chtanov and his wife Svetlana Dligatch, Wayne Stuart and Ron Bulla. Credit:Louise Kennerley Professor Murphy then jumped on the instant messaging system on her phone to alert her colleague David Kaplan, also at the event. Then followed much ducking in and out of the conference, and private meetings among the 40-odd delegates, as the scientists started spreading the word to their teams back home. "We were frantically emailing people to get the telescopes pointing to the right patch of the sky," Professor Murphy said. 'Did anyone else see anything?' Detecting the imminent collision was one thing. Within 1.7 seconds of the merger, gamma rays emitted from the event were also being picked up by NASA's Fermi space telescope. "The gamma ray team also put alerts, effectively saying 'we've detected this amazing burst, did anyone else see anything?'" Dr Lasky said. "In this 1.7 seconds of the gravitational wave signal, the 50-year hypothesis [that neutron star mergers may be the source of gamma rays] was immediately confirmed," Professor Scott said. Dr Lasky, though, did not immediately see the gamma-ray alerts. He was working on his laptop in his Melbourne home but remembers getting "quite excited" by the gravitational wave data coming through. "The signal we were seeing in the those first 10, 20, 30 minutes was just absolutely beautiful a very clean, crisp signal that people had been imagining for a number of years how a binary neutron star would look like," he said. Dr Lasky said scientists "had no idea" when the gravitational waves detected from black holes had been formed. This time, though, the combination with traditional astronomy had allowed researchers to pin down their speed "with remarkable precision". Einstein, it turns out "passed another test", Dr Lasky said. Gravitational waves do travel at the speed of light, as the great theoretical physicist predicted. Fireball ejected Professor Scott, who also happened to be working late that night at her home in Canberra, could barely believe what she was reading. Having been closely involved in the gravitational wave research identifying the four separate black hole collisions, she had to re-read the first missive several times to realise this was something else. Her work though a "large portion of the night" then involved ensuring the SkyMapper and 2.3-metre telescopes at the ANU's Siding Spring Observatory in northern NSW were programmed to scan the right galaxy for the optical signal that they hoped to detect. While the Swope Telescope in Chile would be the first to make a tentative detection of the light signal about 10 hours after the merger, the SkyMapper would be among first to confirm it, Professor Scott said. "Australia was the first to get the colour of the resultant fireball from the collision, and to measure its temperature at 6000 degrees, or about the surface temperature of the sun," Professor Scott said. Below is an image captured by the SkyMapper of the fireball ejected by the collision. (Supplied by ANU's Christian Wolf et al.) 'Not confident at all' Australian work was also crucial for the detection of radio waves from the event, which would require about 16 days of careful monitoring. Professor Murphy and her PhD candidate Dougal Dobie sprang into action to convince CSIRO to give their team what would eventually total 40 hours of precious time on the Australia Telescope Compact Array at Narrabri, also in northern NSW. "We weren't confident at all," Professor Murphy said. "We truly did not know whether we were going to detect anything or not." The team knew to direct the array to an area about 150 times the size of the moon in the night sky. After a tentative detection by US counterparts, the Sydney University team were the first to confirm the radio signal on September 5. While each part of the spectrum played a role, the radio wave detection should be best placed to distinguish which of the astrophysical models worked best, Professor Murphy said. Gold rush Also of interest will be learning more about how gold and other elements are formed. "It's a big mystery where half of all the elements of the universe come from," said Professor Murphy. "We know that elements heavier than iron must be produced in supernova explosions [which form neutron stars] because there's no other thing with enough energy to produce them." In this instance, a lot of gold would have been ejected in the event, Dr Lasky said. "Our best bet is that around about one Earth's mass of gold was produced, which is a pretty phenomenal amount," he said. Other Australian researchers were involved through the ARC Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery, or Ozgrav. "For the first time in history we can now combine light signals with gravitational waves to provide a totally new way to probe the universe," said Ashley Ruiter from UNSW Canberra's School of Physical, Environmental, and Mathematical Sciences, whose work appears in a Nature paper out on Tuesday. Dr Ruiter and colleague Ivo Seitenzahl were part of the ePESSTO (extended Public ESO Spectroscopic Survey of Transient Objects) collaboration, which took the first spectrum of the event. What next? Valletta: Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese investigative journalist who exposed her country's link to the Panama Papers, was killed on Monday when a powerful bomb blew up her car, police said, in a case that stunned the small Mediterranean island. Galizia, 53, ran a hugely popular blog in which she relentlessly highlighted cases of alleged high-level corruption targeting politicians from across party lines. "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate," she wrote in a blog post published on her site just half an hour before an explosion tore into her car. Locals said Galizia had just left her house and was on a road near the village of Bidnija in northern Malta when the bomb detonated, sending her car flying into an adjacent field. By PTI: Mumbai, Oct 17 (PTI) Bajaj Auto, which today reported a marginal dip in net profit at Rs 1,193.6 crore in the three months to September, said it will start exporting its premium bikes to Australia and Thailand this fiscal. The Pune-based automaker also said it is "on track" to achieve the target of selling four million vehicles, including in the overseas markets, in the current fiscal. advertisement The company attributed the fall in net income to lower sales as well as a 13.3 per cent decline in other income quarter from Rs 297.2 crore due to lower investment income. Hit by higher input costs, lower sales and a dip in other income, its consolidated net declined 6 per cent to Rs 1,194 crore from Rs 1,200 crore a year-ago. "The quarter was good. We had the highest-ever turnover, an Ebidta margin of 20.8 per cent and an over 20 per cent market share in domestic motorcycle segment,"S Ravikumar, president--business development at Bajaj Auto told PTI in a post-earnings concall today. During the quarter, the company sold 10,71,510 units, up 4 per cent from 10,31,945 units a year ago. Ravikumar said their market share in the motorcycle segment in the domestic has been improving month-on-month, adding, "last couple of quarters we were impacted by new emission norms, transition to GST, among others. All that has now been sorted out and things are now falling in place." He attributed the fall in the Ebidta, which used generally used to be above 20 per cent, to the GST, BSIII and discounted sales by the competition. "The focus in the current quarter is to get back to the 20 per cent market share and plus 20 per cent Ebidta that has been achieved," he said. He said its premium offering Pulsar, including Pulsar NS 200 CC and Pulsar NS 160 cc and Avenger are doing very well with 45 per cent market share while in the lower segment, the City and Platina have 35-36 per cent market share. The Pulsar NS 160 was added in the June quarter but the company had the full quarter benefit in this quarter very well, he said. In September, Bajaj had sold more than 1.12 lakh Pulsars which was the highest ever monthly sales, he said. These products have just been introduced but even after the festival season the sale of the new product is expected to continue to be good going forward in the two subsequent quarters, Ravikumar said. Be it commercial vehicle or three-wheeler or domestic Bajaj has done very well, he said, adding exports has been consistently good. advertisement "Though the raw material prices are hardening a bit, we will be able to deliver profitability beyond 20 per cent Ebidta and fairly a good set of numbers," he said. "Bajaj effected a marginal increase in its prices due to the higher input costs and going forward, I think whatever price increases in the input side, the cost increases, we are quite comfortable that we should be able to pass on these increased costs entirely to the customer," he said. He said the company has already started exporting its vehicles in the previous quarter to Malaysia and the exports to Australia and Thailand are getting added in the next two quarters. Despite a poor numbers, the street lapped up the Bajaj counter with the shares closing at Rs 3,257 or up 1.09 per cent on the BSE on a dull trade, wherein the benchmark Sensex closed 0.08 per cent down after a week of rally to historic highs. PTI IAS BEN RMT BAS --- ENDS --- By Rohini Swamy: It's not just Bengaluru that has been plagued with potholes. The city of Mangaluru, too, has seen the craters coming up. So, both the cities found a unique way to protest, Bengaluru civic action groups painted the pictures of the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Bangalore development minister KJ george near a big pothole to bring it to the attention of the government. advertisement In another off-beat attempt, the locals in Mangaluru along with AAP activists flyer paper boats and placed fishing nets to highlight the plight of the potholes. Nav Bharat, a civic action group, identified two locations in Bengaluru, MG road near the Military canteen and 100 feet Indiranagar to stick the pictures of the Siddaramaiah and KJ george. People in Bengaluru found it quite interesting and several took selfies with the pothole. The Bengaluru development minister KJ George who spoke to India Today said, "We have already started filling up the potholes. We have set a deadline and we will complete it well within time. The effort is not just to fill potholes but also make our roads ready so that they will last another decade at least. If you have seen our TenderSure project where we have laid cobbled footpaths and white topped, we have set up roads that can handle heavy rains, heavy traffic and also it has accounted for service works by other departments such as the waterworks and electricity department. Give us six months and see how we transform Bengaluru." The Bruhat Bengaluru Maha nagar Palike commisioner Manjunath Prasad said that the number of identified potholes has reduced and they have filled more than half it then in the city. The rains may hamper work, but the effort is on to fill up all the potholes. "By Monday all 24 thousand identified potholes will be filled, he said." Meanwhile, in Mangalore, the MCC civic group and AAP staged a protest at the Kankanady Market against the pathetic condition of the market. If that was not all, the locals also held a paper boat competition for kids. --- ENDS --- By PTI: New Delhi, Oct 17 (PTI) CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury today accused the RSS-BJP of triggering violence in Kerala, saying that if it continued to do so, the saffron party would not win even a single seat in the state. Yechury said this after leading a march to the BJP headquarters here, countering the latters two-week long Janraksha Yatra, or peoples protection rally, in Kerala, which concludes today. advertisement "We warn the BJP that if they continue to create violence in Kerala they will not see even one MLA elected from the state," he said, addressing party workers in front of the BJP office. The Left partys march was in protest against alleged acts of violence by the RSS-BJP in Kerala, while the BJPs rallies highlighted what it described as violence by the Left. Yechury was joined by other party leaders and workers at the rally. "The BJP-RSS is trying to build up their political and social base through violence and terror," he claimed. The CPI(M) leader took a dig at BJP president Amit Shah, saying that he "ran away from Kerala and came back to Delhi as he had to save his son who is been accused of corruption". He was referring to a recent report in news portal The Wire which said a firm owned by Shahs son Jay Shah saw a huge rise in its turnover after the BJP came to power in 2014, a charge the BJP rejected as "false, derogatory and defamatory". Challenging the ruling party at the Centre, Yechury said the "red flag" -- a reference to the Lefts symbol -- cannot be removed. "If the BJP thinks it can remove the red flag from the country, then they are mistaken, as the flag has removed fascist forces from the world," he said. Earlier the Left party leader had said its workers were capable of giving a "suitable answer" if saffron outfits did not stop political violence. PTI CSN BDS --- ENDS --- At the invitation of Ms. Colette Hercher, Director-General of German Customs under the Ministry of Finance, and Mr. Uwe Schroeder, Director of the German Central Customs Authority, WCO Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya attended the 12th Meeting of Customs Directors-General and Commissioners from Europe and Asian Members of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) held in Berlin, Germany, on 16 and 17 October 2017. ASEM is a forum to enhance relations and various forms of cooperation between its partners, and ASEM Customs Directors-General meet once every two years to discuss relevant developments and priorities in Customs work. Opening the meeting, Dr. Michael Meister, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, welcomed more than 140 delegates from 45 ASEM Members to Berlin. During his speech, he highlighted ASEMs role in strengthening relations between Europe and Asia across a wide spectrum of activities. Dr. Meister emphasized the importance of Customs, stressing that the exchange of best practices and the alignment of Customs procedures was of particular significance in the fight against international terrorism. Noting that globalization and digitalization both presented opportunities for growth, Dr. Meister underlined the need to enhance connectivity between Customs so as to enable the free flow of trade and secure the supply chain. Secretary General Mikuriya briefed delegates on the latest developments in the WCOs six priority areas, namely trade facilitation, e-commerce, security, Customs-Tax cooperation, illicit financial flows and performance measurement. He highlighted the synergy between the activities of ASEM and those of the WCO, and invited ASEM to make its actions and achievements known to the Customs community. Dr. Mikuriya also welcomed the addition of new areas of work in the ASEM Action Plan for 2018-2019. Delegates heard reports on the work done by the ASEM Working Group on Customs matters, as well as on the discussions which had taken place during the Customs-Trade Days. They also held deliberations on several topics touching on the implementation of Authorized Economic Operator schemes, means to enhance Coordinated Border Management, product safety, joint Customs operations, use of Passenger Name Records, implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, best practices for IPR enforcement, and how to ensure increased visibility of ASEM Customs activities. Based on the discussions, delegates adopted a new Action Plan for the period 2018-2019 consisting of eight action points. New actions have been added to the Plan in the areas of transit, Customs management of cross border e-commerce transactions, Single Window, automation and integrated risk assessment, and border enforcement related to postal items. Secretary General Mikuriya joined with the other delegates in thanking the German hosts for their hospitality and faultless organization of the Meeting. The 13th ASEM Customs Directors-General and Commissioners Meeting will take place in Vietnam in 2019. At the invitation of the International President of the World Business Alliance for Secure Commerce (BASC) Organization, the World Customs Organization (WCO) participated at the VII World BASC Conference. The topic for this years meeting was Facilitation and Security: The road to global prosperity. The meeting was held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from 14 to 15 September 2017. It was attended by over 300 participants from the Private Sector, from the Dominican Customs and from the World Trade Organization (WTO). A wide range of topics were discussed. These included an overview of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (the WTO TFA), the role of the Private Sector, an overview of Facilitation and Security strategies in Latin America, Customs and Private Sector working together, amongst others. The World BASC Organization also celebrated its 20th Anniversary with a special panel on 20 years of Customs and Business Working Together. The WCO made a comprehensive presentation about the WCO, the WTO TFA and the role of the private sector. The presentation included an overview of the organization and of the WCO Mercator Programme. This programme offers support to Member Administrations to implement the WTO TFA, including support on the engagement of stakeholders, from the private sector as well as other governmental agencies. The WCO representative also took the opportunity to congratulate the World BASC Organization on its 20th Anniversary and expressed the appreciation for the cooperation and continuous support to the WCO. The CBI's willingness to investigate Kerala killings has come on the concluding day the BJP's two-week-long Jan Raksha Yatra, which is expected to be attended by party chief Amit Shah today. By India Today Web Desk: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the central government today told the Kerala High Court they have no objection to taking over the investigation of political murders of the RSS and BJP workers allegedly by the CPM men. The High Court bench has directed the Left government in the state to file a counter affidavit by October 25; the case will be heard next on October 30. advertisement The court was hearing a petition filed by RK Prem Das on behalf of the Gopalan Adyodi Vakeel Smaraka Trust, based in Thalassery, which had demanded probe into the political murders of RSS and BJP workers. The CBI's willingness to investigate Kerala killings has come on the concluding day the BJP's two-week-long Jan Raksha Yatra , which is expected to be attended by party chief Amit Shah today. The BJP's march, which was flagged off by Shah on October 3 from Kannur, the hotbed of political violence in Kerala , is a protest against the political violence allegedly unleashed by the ruling CPM . Sources in the BJP said Shah would walk with party cadres from Pattom to the Puthrikandam maidan in Thiruvananthapuram, the venue of the valedictory of the two-week-long yatra. A host of BJP leaders, Union ministers and BJP chief ministers, including Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, had participated in the yatra at different stages. The BJP alleges that instances of political violence increased whenever the Left Democratic Front (LDF) came to power in Kerala, which has been ruled alternatively by the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), and the LDF for a long time. Rubbishing the BJP yatra, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has accused the BJP and the RSS of carrying out a "malicious campaign" to tarnish the image of the state and damage its tourism industry. Politics apart, data suggests the culture of political killing in Kerala is followed by both the RSS-BJP combine as well as the Left. In Kannur alone, since the late 60s, nearly 180 people were killed, with the victims being on both sides in an almost equal number. --- ENDS --- By PTI: violence Panchkula (Hry), Oct 17 (PTI) The CEO of a business venture run by Sirsa-based Dera Sacha Sauda has been arrested in connection with the violence that erupted following the conviction of the sects head Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a rape case on August 25, the police said today. Also, a Bathinda-based woman and her son were arrested yesterday for allegedly providing shelter to the sect heads adopted daughter Honeypreet Insan when she was evading arrest, they said. advertisement C P Arora, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MSG All India Trading International Pvt limited, was arrested from Panchkula by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Haryana Police yesterday, Panchkula Police Commissioner A S Chawla said. "We have sufficient evidence against him about his role in Panchkula violence," the police officer said. Chawla said Arora would be produced before Panchkula district court today and his police remand would be sought so that he can be questioned thoroughly. According to the police, Arora had already been booked for allegedly conspiring to incite violence on August 25. Following the conviction of Ram Rahim, violence erupted in Panchkula and Sirsa districts of Haryana leaving 41 people dead and several injured. Arora was said to be close to absconding key Dera functionary Aditya Insan against whom a lookout notice was issued. MSG All Trading International Pvt Ltd deals in food and other products. Last year, the company launched 151 items of its brand, including basmati rice, tea, pulses and biscuits. The products were launched by Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. Bhatinda-based Sharanjit Kaur and her son Gurmeet Singh has been from Jangirana village in Punjab. They had gone into hiding when Haryana police had gone to their house last week along with Honeypreet, the police said. After being on the run for over a month, Honeypreet was arrested on October 3 by the Haryana Police from Zirakpur- Patiala road in Punjab for her alleged involvement in hatching a conspiracy to incite the violence in Panchkula. Haryana police has also arrested Chandigarh Police head constable Labh Singh for his suspected role in the conspiracy to free Ram Rahim Singh after his conviction on August 25. They have also arrested Dera member Gopal Bansal, a resident of Hanumangarh in Rajasthan, in connection with the Panchkula violence. PTI CHS VSD NSD --- ENDS --- By Ananth Krishnan: China's Communist Party (CPC) will amend the party constitution at its key congress that opens tomorrow to reflect leader Xi Jinping's "new concepts, thinking and strategy for governance," a top official said on Tuesday. On Wednesday morning, around 2,300 delegates of the party will meet in Beijing for the twice-a-decade congress, which will conclude on October 24. The congress will choose a new leadership for Xi's second five-year term, including the next Politburo Standing Committee, the seven-member body that effectively rules China. The PBSC will be unveiled on October 25. advertisement The congress is expected to further strengthen Xi's strong grip over the party. In the past five years, he has rapidly accumulated power, and has been widely seen as the strongest leader since Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. To signal Xi's dominance, the congress is expected to amend its constitution to include Xi's "ideological contribution", as has been done for each of the past four generation of leaders. Tuo Zhen, spokesperson for the 19th Party Congress and a senior Propaganda Department official, told reporters on Tuesday that amendments will "signify the new concepts, new thinking, and new strategy for governance of China that the Communist Party Central Committee with General Secretary Xi Jinping as the Core has developed." The CPC constitution only mentions Mao and Deng by name, and an inclusion of Xi's name would signal he has surpassed his predecessors, Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao. Their respective "ideological contributions" were enshrined into the constitution only after they stepped down, and without mentioning their names. On the other hand, a failure to include Xi's name at the upcoming congress would suggest he has faced stronger than expected resistance to his accumulation of power, observers say. The amendments are likely to be announced after the congress concludes on October 24. Tuo appeared to lay out the rationale for amending the party's ideological guidelines, suggesting Xi may have his way. "It is an established practice for the party to amend the party constitution at national congresses in response to innovations in theory and developments in practice," he said. "Experience has shown making appropriate amendments in line with new developments and tasks can help every member of the party better understand, abide by and apply the party constitution, and better understand and regulate the party's work and party building". Xi will open the congress on Wednesday by delivering a work report that outlines the political, economic and strategic vision for the next five years. "An overarching strategic and far-sighted programme of action is needed," Tuo said, "as such a programme has a direct bearing on the continuation and development of the course of the party and country, and on the future of Chinese socialism." --- ENDS --- By PTI: (Eds: Correcting slug) Beijing, Oct 17 (PTI) China plans to complete ahead of schedule a USD two billion hydropower project in Pakistan- occupied Kashmir to ease energy crisis in Pakistan. Karot Hydropower Project is being built on Jhelum river on "Build-Own-Operate-Transfer" basis for 30 years. It will be owned by the Chinese company for 30 years, after which ownership will be turned over to the government of Pakistan. advertisement Karot Power Company Limited, a subsidiary of China Three Gorges South Asia Investment, owns the Karot Power Station, state-run Global Times reported today. The company said in a statement that the project will help ease Pakistans power shortage and generate local employment. The report has not mentioned the new timeline for the project. Karot Power Station has a capacity of 720 megawatts and China Three Gorges South Asia Investment also has other power projects in Pakistan, including hydro, wind and solar power, which would largely solve Pakistans problem, it said. "India has repeatedly expressed its concern over the project since the project is located in disputed Kashmir, but it wont affect cooperation between China and Pakistan, because the ties are unshakable and will not target India," the daily quoted Hu Zhiyong, a research fellow at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences Institute of International Relations. "With Chinas support and assistance, Pakistans power shortage will very likely be solved by 2025, which means a main obstacle to Pakistans economic development will be removed," Hu said. PTI KJV NSA NSA --- ENDS --- Over $400,000 raised at BBQ on the River Congress has demanded a time-bound judicial investigation into the allegations of corruption against BJP chief Amit Shah's son Jay Shah regarding the turnover of his firm Temple Enterprise Private Ltd. By Supriya Bhardwaj: Congress has demanded a time-bound judicial investigation into the allegations of corruption against BJP chief Amit Shah's son Jay Shah regarding the turnover of his firm Temple Enterprise Private Ltd. Upping the ante against the BJP, Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the corruption allegations against the BJP president's son, Congress Communications Department head Randeep Surjewala said, "We demand that an independent and credible investigation be conducted into the issue. A commission, consisting of two seniormost Supreme Court Judges, must be appointed to submit a report within a time-bound period." advertisement Congress, through its chief spokesperson Surjewala, even asked BJP, its President Amit Shah, and PM Narendra Modi as many as 9 questions on the issue of Jay Shah. HERE ARE CONGRESS' 9 QUESTIONS TO BJP ON JAY SHAH CONTROVERSY How did the business of 'Temple Enterprise Private Limited' (a company owned by Amit Shah's wife, daughter-in-law and son Jay Shah) increase 16,000 times in one year? Congress' chief spokesperson Surjewala, asked, "What is the 'magic wand' by which a company earning a surplus of mere Rs 18.8 lakh in 10 years ends up increasing its turnover 16,000 times within a year of the formation of the BJP government?" Until 2013-14, the total amount of borrowings of the company of Jay Shah was a mere Rs.1.3 crore. In what circumstances and based on what criterion did the borrowings increase by 400 times (53.4 crore) within a year of the formation of the BJP government? What precipitated the closing down of 'Temple Enterprise Private Limited' in October, 2016 suddenly on account of losses, particularly when the company had increased its turnover by 16,000 times? Was it not the responsibility of the income tax department to issue a notice and hold an inquiry for identifying the reasons for a company closing down in these suspicious circumstances? Jay Shah's company - 'Temple Enterprise' - received a sum of Rs 51 crore from foreign bank accounts. People want to know what this nature of extraordinary trade was and in which country was this trade conducted that such a huge amount was deposited in the accounts of the company? Did the 'KISF Financial Services' (which is a non-banking Financial Services Company) give an 'unsecured loan' to Shri Jai Shah's 'Temple Enterprise Private Limited'? Why a Union Cabinet Minister ended up defending a private person over his business dealings? Is Jay Shah a Member of the Union Cabinet or a national office-bearer of the BJP? Why is the Government of India bending over backwards to defend the business dealings of a private person? Why did the Union Law Ministry give special permission to its seniormost lawyer and Additional Solicitor General Shri Tushar Mehta to defend a private person like Jay Shah? Is it not correct that in view of the nationwide outrage and pressure to take action, even the RSS has demanded an investigation into all the charges levelled against Jay Shah? When will PM Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah break their silence? WATCH VIDEO | Gujarat: Rahul mocks Modi govt over media report on Jay Shah's company --- ENDS --- Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 16, 2017 | PADUCAH, KY By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 16, 2017 | 06:19 PM | PADUCAH, KY Two men have been arrested on theft, drug and gun charges after a reported burglary. According to the McCracken County Sheriff's Department, deputies responded Sunday at 3:35 pm to a home on Nickel Heights Road in the Reidland area. They learned that someone had entered the home and taken several firearms, prescription medications, and cash. The investigation led deputies to believe that 28-year-old Joshua Gaia of Paducah, who lived in the home but was not there at the time, was a potential suspect. Deputies found Gaia and 27-year-old Zachary Mitchell of Calvert City at a home on Clarks River Road, where they say Mitchell was taking a rifle case from the home to a car. Mitchell was detained, and a search of the vehicle led to discovery of numerous firearms that deputies say were stolen earlier in the day. Deputies also say they found methamphetamine packaged for sale, scales, prescriptions that were reported stolen, and cash. As deputies were investigating, they say Mitchell tried to flee, but he was quickly tackled and captured. He is a convicted felon who is legally banned from possessing a gun. Gaia and Mitchell were arrested and taken to McCracken County Jail. Mitchell was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, receiving stolen property, trafficking in meth, and fleeing or evading police. Gaia is charged with theft by unlawful taking of a firearm, possession of meth, and theft of a controlled substance. He was not charged with burglary since he lived where the theft occurred. Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 17, 2017 | PADUCAH, KY By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 17, 2017 | 01:04 PM | PADUCAH, KY The Paducah Board of Commissioners and McCracken County Fiscal Court met at City Hall Monday night to hear a presentation from Campbell County Consolidated Dispatch Center Executive Director Dale Edmondson about his county's 911 center. Edmonson said Campbell Countys governing structure began in 2001 with the approval of an inter-local agreement among the Campbell County Fiscal Court, the City of Newport, and the City of Fort Thomas. This agreement created the Campbell County Dispatching Board, and consolidated three 911 entities. A consolidated 911 center was constructed in the Newport City Building with services beginning in July 2002. The Dispatching Board is a board of seven public safety members with no elected officials on the board. The Campbell County Consolidated Dispatch Center is funded with a service fee on the property tax bill for homes and businesses. The $75 flat fee replaces the monthly land line fee. The Dispatch Center also receives revenue through the State Commercial Mobile Radio Service Board through a surcharge fee that the State places on wireless phones. The Paducah 911 Center is operated by the city, and has service agreements with McCracken County and volunteer fire departments. The Paducah 911 Center serves about 65,000 residents, and averages more than 164,000 calls per year. It has 22 full-time employees. By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 16, 2017 | 08:12 PM | MCCRACKEN COUNTY, KY A Paducah man was arrested Sunday night on several charges following a short vehicle pursuit. According to the McCracken County Sheriff's Office, at about 9:15 pm, sheriff's detectives were re-fueling at Hucks on Olivet Church Road. While at the gas station, detectives saw a man in a hooded sweatshirt get out of a vehicle with no registration plates and enter the building. The man came back out, got into the vehicle and quickly drove away. Police said two males were seen inside the vehicle. Detectives attempted to the stop the vehicle on Olivet Church Road for having no plates, but the vehicle fled. The man drove through a yard near the intersection of James Sanders Blvd. where he struck a parked vehicle and continued on. While driving through the yard, detectives saw the driver throw something out of the vehicle. A short time later, the man lost control of his vehicle and drove through a wooded area in the 5500 block of Commerce Drive where the vehicle came to an abrupt stop. Detectives arrived within seconds and detained the passenger of the vehicle. He was eventually released. The driver, 26-year-old Jakari Garnett, fled on foot into a wooded area. Paducah Police K-9 Officer Shawn Craven and his K-9 arrived and assisted in tracking Garnett. He was found hiding approximately 200 yards from the vehicle in a wooded area and was arrested without incident. A check of computer records revealed that Garnett was wanted on an outstanding McCracken County bench warrant. Detectives returned to the yard of the home where Garnett was seen throwing something out of the vehicle and seized numerous Xanax pills. In a wooded area behind the home where the pills were found, deputies located a .357 revolver with the serial number defaced. Garnett was lodged in the McCracken County Regional Jail on charges of fleeing or evading police, criminal mischief, tampering with physical evidence and no registration plates. Detectives said the investigation is continuing and additional charges are likely. 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 West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 16, 2017 | 08:24 PM | WESTERN KENTUCKY Fridays meeting will be at the Guthrie Transportation Museum and Welcome Center, an adaptive reuse project encompassing two formerly dilapidated buildings, followed by tours of the 1872 Opera House and Robert Penn Warren Birthplace Museum. The conference will conclude with an optional visit to Franklin, TN, another Great American Main Street community. The Kentucky Main Street Program (KYMS) Fall Conference convenes this week in Western Kentucky and showcases historic buildings and successful rehabilitation and downtown revitalization projects in Paducah, Murray, Cadiz, Princeton and Guthrie.Lake Barkley State Resort Park will host the meeting, which draws local KYMS directors and board members from across the Commonwealth.Just as we did last year in Eastern Kentucky, the goal of this years conference is to share best practices with one another and learn about all the great things taking place in the western part of the state, said Kitty Dougoud, Kentucky Main Street Program administrator. We have a wonderful and diverse network of Main Street communities, each with unique characteristics that provide great educational opportunities to see our Main Street trainings in action.The conference gets underway Tuesday afternoon with updates from the state program and a communal celebration of Covingtons Great American Main Street Award, presented earlier this year by Main Street America.Wednesday, the group will travel to Paducah for a tour of three properties successfully utilizing rehabilitation tax credits: the 1857 Hotel, Coca-Cola Bottling Plant, and Paducah City Hall. State and federal rehab tax credit programs are also administered by the Kentucky Heritage Council.A tour of Murray Main Street will take place Wednesday afternoon, followed by a boat ride on Lake Barkley. Thursday, participants will meet at the Renaissance Center in Cadiz and tour the Janice Mason Art Museum, a community arts center located in a historic, WPA-era, Colonial Revival Post Office building on Cadiz Main Street.Thursday afternoon, the meeting will move to the historic Princeton Tourism Center, a converted Christian church, and will include presentations about the award-winning Paint Your Town initiative, which has been widely emulated in other Kentucky communities. By Shivani Chhabra: The Indian traditional saree is a manifestation of elegance in its purest form. Apart from being supremely traditional, it's beautiful how the saree is an infusion of different patterns and styles, hence each nine-yard has a different charm about itself. While the right choice of a saree can make one look just so ethereal, it is quite a risky business to pull off a heavy saree without making it look super-loud. Deepika Padukone's recent public appearance is an on point case of the latter. advertisement Also Read: Deepika Padukone's floral princess look on the ramp is all the sweetness you need today The leggy-lass graced the launch-event of yesteryear actress Hema Malini's autobiography, and made a really disappointing appearance. Draped in a maroon, nine-yard, Deepika showed us how not to choose and style a Banarasi saree. Photo: Yogen Shah There's no denying the fact that Deepika looked gorgeous, but we couldn't really make peace with the garish, silver work on the saree that really pinched our eyes. Apart from being shoddy, the silver work sheathed the entire outfit, and that is exactly what went majorly wrong with the attire. Photo: Yogen Shah Also Read: Deepika Padukone's jeans have ruined this quirky shirt, and how! Draping it the usual way and teaming it with a half-sleeved blouse, Deepika could have saved the look, had it not been for her jewellery. The dusky beauty wore a chunky, gold neckpiece and heavy earrings that were anything but well-matched. Pictures courtesy: Instagram/the_fab_fashion_closet Wearing her hair in her iconic bun, Deepika looked quite pretty and yet leaving us dissatisfied with her outfit. --- ENDS --- By PTI: Ayodhya (UP), Oct 17 (PTI) One lakh and seventy one thousand earthen lamps will glow on the banks of river Saryu as the state governments plans to project the heritage of this temple town will be on full display when Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will attend a mega event - Deepotsav- here tomorrow. The event will seek to create the celebratory atmosphere witnessed in Ayodhya on Lord Ramas return along with wife Sita and brother Lakshman, after victory over Ravana, as narrated in the epic Ramayana, according to officials. advertisement A series of programmes have been scheduled to celebrate Diwali in the pilgrim town, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Awanish Awasthi said. The "Deepotsav" will be organised on the Ram Ki Paidi where 1.71 lakh earthen lamps will be lit, he said. Prominent buildings and ghats will be illuminated to attract tourists. The objective of the entire programme will be to promote Ayodhya, the birth place of Lord Rama, as a tourist destination, he said. A heritage walk, a yatra reminiscing the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya, and the launch of several schemes by the chief minister and other dignitaries will be part of the programme, Awasthi said. A grand "aarti" of River Saryu will also be performed by Chief Minister Adityanath and Governor Ram Naik followed by a laser show. The governor, during a recent visit to Varanasi said, that Ayodhya, despitebeing an ancient cultural and religious destination, has faced neglect and now both the state and the Centre were trying to restore its glory. Noting that Diwali is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after winning a war in Lanka, Naik had said the state government wants to portray the same scene. "I believe, and you can imagine, that those who visit Ayodhya, whether they are domestic or foreign tourists,all carry a wish to see Lord Rama there. We hope the government will work keeping all these aspects in mind," the governor had said. During tomorrows programme, Ramlila will be staged by artistes from Indonesia and Thailand. Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma will be present on the occasion. The Union Tourism ministry has sanctioned Rs 133.70 crore for making Ayodhya a tourism hub. The money sanctioned will be utilised in renovating ghats, including the Guptar Ghat, where Lord Rama had taken Samadhi, installing CCTV cameras, making police booths, construction of guest houses for tourists and auditorium at Digamgar Akhara. The budget presented by the Yogi government, which came to power in March, had a special mention of Ayodhya, Varanasi and Mathura, earmarking Rs 1,240 crore for the Ramayan, Buddhist and Krishna circuits in these cities. advertisement Earlier in May, the state government had re-started the popular Ram Leela at the Ayodhya Research Centre, after a hiatus of 17 months. The practice of holding Ram Leela in Ayodhya was started by the then chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav in May 2004, but was stopped during Akhilesh Yadavs regime after the culture department refused to grant aid for the same. The Yogi government has re-started the shows after sanctioning a handsome budget for the Ram Leela. Adityanath has visited Ayodhya at least twice after assuming office and launched several projects worth crores of rupees for the city. The UP government also plans to install a grand statue of Lord Ram in the city. To add a touch of fantasy to the event, a chopper decorated as the mythological Pushpak Viman, will descend on Ram Katha Park with artistes decked up to resemble Lord Ram, Sita and Laxman. A 22-minute laser show with special sound effects on Ramayana will be the major attraction during the mega event at Ram Katha Park, Awasthi said. advertisement "The aim of the programme is to attract tourists and showcase tourism spots and the potential of Ayodhya," he added. Meanwhile, heavy police deployment has been made for the occasion. Over 1,000 policemen along with 10 companies of PAC and two companies of RAF have been deployed for security of the VVIPs, a senior police official said. PTI ABN SMI ADS --- ENDS --- By PTI: Kejriwal New Delhi, Oct 17 (PTI) Former chief minister Sheila Dikshit said today that Delhi has "some of the most efficient" bureaucrats, a day after her successor Arvind Kejriwal claimed that 90 per cent of the IAS officers do not work. The three-time chief minister said Delhis officers helped her in achieving her goal of transforming the city. advertisement "Kejriwalji, Delhi has some of the most efficient bureaucrats. They helped me tirelessly in achieving my goal of transforming Delhi," Dikshit tweeted. Dikshit was the chief minister of Delhi for 15 years from 1998 to 2013, heading the Congress government in the national capital. At an event yesterday, Kejriwal had alleged that ninety per cent of the IAS officers "do not work" and said at times he feels development was "stuck up at the secretariat". The Delhi chief minister had also alleged that the IAS officers "obstructed files" of development works. The AAP government and the bureaucracy, which comes under the Lt Governor, have been at loggerheads on several issues. In December 2015, Delhi government bureaucrats had gone on mass leave to protest the suspension of two Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Civil Service (DANICS) cadre officers. In May 2015, Kejriwal had accused the then acting Chief Secretary Shakuntala Gamlin of "favouring" power companies and claimed that she wanted to "trick the government into signing documents which would give Rs 11,000 crore to these firms". Earlier this month, the government had issued an order to lock the office of a senior IAS officer after he had issued directives notifying the appointment of the then power secretary Gamlin as the acting chief secretary. PTI BUN ASK ASK --- ENDS --- LANESBORO, Minn. The Commonweal Theatre is pleased and honored to announce that the organization has been awarded the 2017 Minnesota Nonprofit Award for Excellence by The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and Propel Nonprofits. With a nearly 30-year history of providing high quality, live professional theatre, the Commonweal Theatre has been recognized for overall excellence and is the first professional theatre company to ever receive this distinction from the council. The council selected six Minnesota nonprofits as recipients of 2017 Nonprofit Mission and Excellence Awards. Presented each year since 1987, the Mission and Excellence Awards recognize and honor the contributions of Minnesota nonprofits in the areas of Innovation, Advocacy, Anti-Racism, Responsive Philanthropy and Excellence (for large and small organizations). The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN) and Propel Nonprofits celebrated this years recipients before more than 850 nonprofit professionals on Friday, Oct. 13, as part of MCNs 2017 Annual Conference at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. Representing the Commonweal at this event was Executive Director Hal Cropp, Director of Development Scott Dixon along with members of the Commonweal Board of Directors. Recipients received one-of-a-kind glass awards from Minnesota glass artist Robinson Scott, professionally produced videos featuring their organizations and modest cash awards. Paula Overby is no stranger to a campaign. The Minnesota politician, mother of three and former data analyst has ran for election to the U.S. House of Representatives for District 2 twice, losing both times in 2014 and 2016 while increasing her percentage of votes, said Brian Mueller, co-chair of the Green Party of Winona County. The Green Party of Winona County hosted Overby at Acoustic Cafe in Winona Sunday afternoon for her to garner support and introduce herself to voters in hopes of officially announcing her candidacy for Minnesota U.S. senator, taking on incumbent Sen. Amy Klobuchar as she seeks a third term in 2018. Overby is hoping for support and endorsement from the Minnesota Green Party for her run. Upon her announcement which is expected to come in mid-November, Mueller said Overby will be the second candidate to officially announce a campaign against Klobuchar. In August, Republican candidate and State Rep. Jim Newberger announced he will run against Klobuchar for the seat. Formerly active in the Democratic Farmer Labor party, Overby ran for the U.S. House of Representatives endorsed by the Independence Party during her last run for office. While she recognizes the struggles of running outside of the two major parties, she said she is hoping her fight for office sends a message to voters. Its very difficult to run as an independent candidate, Overby said. This campaign has a chance of winning; even if (we) dont win, we have secondary goals. Those other goals, Overby said, include informing the voter base of other party options when voting and creating what Overby referred to as coalitions or groups working together toward a common solutions in government. As for the platforms for her run for office, Overby cited cutting back on military spending as one of two major points she is concerned with. By cutting funds, Overby said that part of the budget can be directed elsewhere such as public education, infrastructure and healthcare. The second issue she is concerned with running on is healthcare, of which she supports a government-funded system, similar to a Medicare-like system. Overby acknowledged current issues with the Affordable Care Act, but said she believes current politicians, including in her opinion Klobuchar, have done little to resolve the issues. Klobuchars name was brought up more than once Sunday, as Overby also called the current Minnesota senator the Betty Crocker of the Democratic Party. Shes a myth. People dont know anything about her, Overby said. ... She has a lot of vulnerability. They all think she wants to be president, and if she wants to be president, shes not really thinking about us. Other issues attendees of Sundays gathering questioned Overby about were pipelines, the environment and womens health issues. In fielding this questions, Overby said she is in favor of renewable energy and eliminating the need and use of fossil fuels. As a transgender woman and a member of the LGBTQ community, Overby said she believes she has a unique perspective on the issues surrounding womens health and equity, adding that she believes there is a need for a shift in conversations to include and encourage voices from women in a position of power. Im a very strong believer in social equity, Overby said. Everybody deserves a second chance. Overby is poised to announce her candidacy in mid-November in Winona. Mueller said the Green Party of Winona will have an official date set later this week. A number of Winona State University students gathered at the gazebo on campus for a candlelight vigil on Monday night to honor victims of domestic assault and gender-based violence something one in three women in college experience during their time in college. We want to give space to recognize those who have been affected by domestic violence, senior social work major and organizer of the vigil Victoria Parke said. October is domestic violence awareness month, and domestic violence falls under the umbrella term gender-based violence, Parke said. A few of the students attending the vigil have personally experienced some form of gender-based violence, but Parke said the vigil is more for those who have passed away as a result of domestic violence. On the bench in the gazebo were 11 stories of survivors of some form of domestic violence. Next to the pictures and stories were candles. This is the second year the Winona State RE Initiative has organized a candlelight vigil for domestic violence awareness. With everything happening in the national spotlight and discussion surrounding Harvey Weinstein, conversations centered on sexual assault and domestic violence have made way to the forefront. These conversations generally dont happen out in the open like this, though. Parke said these issues usually occur behind closed doors, out of the public eye. Theres a lot of conversations happening this month about this stuff, she said. The more people hear and see these conversations, the more likely they are to talk about it. Parke said the goal is to bring more awareness to the issue and keep conversations going beyond just the month of October. In particular, educating people on the topic, its prevalence in our society, and ways to work toward solutions is important. Its important to encourage people to have these conversations on how to make the community and campus a safer place, Parke said. These kinds of conversations arent easy. They will make people uncomfortable, Parke said. If people ignore the issue then the ability to find solutions and change the culture of gender-based violence will falter. Be proactive, Parke said of ways to be a part of the solution. The most important thing is believing (survivors) when they do open up to you the first time about their experience or experiences. By Shreya Goswami: Diwali is here, and we're now going to enjoy the peak season of Hindu festivals in India. From Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj, people across India will engage in worship and revelries of different sorts during the five days of Diwali. But while Hindus throughout India celebrate this festival unanimously, their rituals and traditions differ. So, take a tour of India with us this Diwali, and get a glimpse of celebrations across the nation. advertisement Also Read: #Diwali2017: The significance of the 5 days of Diwali 1. Diwali in Gujarat For the people of Gujarat, the day of Diwali marks the end of the year. Bestu Varas, or the new year's day, is celebrated a day after Diwali. So you can imagine just how glorious their new year's eve festivities on Diwali must be like. Like most Indians, Gujaratis worship goddess Lakshmi on Diwali, along with the traditional rangolis and diyas. Picture courtesy: Pinterest/intdessa.tumblr.com 2. Diwali in Punjab Diwali isn't just another festival in Punjab. It marks the beginning of winters in this North Indian state, and the state where the Green Revolution started starts preparing for the winter crops and harvest. Punjabi Hindus also worship Lakshmi on this day, and the Sikhs also celebrate the festival with great aplomb at the gurudwaras, especially at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Picture courtesy: Pinterest/pinkzpassion.blogspot.ca 3. Kali Puja in Bengal Also known as Shyama puja, the Bengali Kali puja coincides with Diwali. Unlike Diwali celebrations, however, this puja takes place at night according to the Tantric Hindu traditions. Kali is worshiped with hibiscus flowers, fish, meat, and a number of other offerings. The celebrations reach a new height at the Kalighat and Dakshineswar temples in Kolkata. Picture courtesy: Instagram/dreamsaurabhsaha842 Also Read: #Diwali2017: Why eat adulterated sweets when you can make this 6-step kaju katli at home? 4. Diwali in Tamil Nadu While the traditional hallmarks of Diwali are followed in Tamil Nadu, the people of this South-Indian state have added some unique aspects to it. They light the kuthu vilaku (lamp) and offer naivedhya (food for gods). The Tamil also prepare Deepavali Lehiyam, a special, ayurvedic medicine for the consumption of the whole family. Some also perform the Pithru Tharpanam puja to appease the spirits of their ancestors. Picture courtesy: Pinterest/pinkzpassion.blogspot.ca 5. Diyari in Sindh The Sindhi community settled in various parts of India have also added their unique flair to the Diwali festivities. They call the day Diyari, and wash their gold and silver coins in milk before worshiping goddess Lakshmi. After the puja, they tap the coins against their teeth and chant "Lakshmi aayi, danat vaai" (Lakshmi has arrived, poverty disappeared). Picture courtesy: Pinterest/pinkzpassion.blogspot.ca Picture courtesy: Pinterest/pinkzpassion.blogspot.ca advertisement Also Read: 4 ways in which cleaning your house on Diwali can help you gain wealth 6. Kauriya Kathi in Odisha A significant part of Odisha's Diwali celebrations come from the state's tribal heritage. They perform a ritual called Kauriya Kathi, which is basically a way to worship and appease ancestors in heaven. People burn jute sticks to invite their ancestors to visit them on Diwali, and bless them, their families, and all their endeavours. --- ENDS --- Agents hold casino-style events online for new players who prefer safety and ease of participating in the festive tradition. By Shashank Shekhar: The recent crackdown on betting rackets and makeshift casinos in Delhi-NCR has driven the city's gambling business to take the virtual route. The operators are increasingly using digital platforms and online apps, hosted outside the country, to hold chance game events amid a closed, members-only community. The weeks ahead of Diwali are considered the peak season for gambling when playing cards or other luck games is considered auspicious by many, swelling the number of players manifold. advertisement Operators create exclusive clubs online where clients can place their bets in real time and the money is collected offline the following day. "We have inputs about gambling agents who are sharing links with businessmen of Delhi-NCR to play card games online and huge money is being traded each night," a senior Delhi Police official told Mail Today, requesting anonymity. "Earlier, they used to rent a farmhouse or bungalow for organising poker, card-based games, and roulette around the festival of Diwali but now these agents are using digital covers for their operations." The official admitted that it is difficult to crack down on online players as most of the websites are hosted abroad. "There are several roadblocks, which includes getting a log from the said app or site operator. Simultaneous raids at individual houses and gathering technical evidence are other impediments," the police officer said. Experts said apps like PPpoker gives an option of hosting the card game where local players can be invited through their social media page. There are other websites like 888casino, Williams Hill and 1xbet that offer popular live casino games. These sites have gained heavy traction lately, they point out. Confirming the spike, UP Police Special Task Force (STF) additional superintendent Triveni Singh said, "Playing chance-based games, including card and number games on the online platform, is increasing as general perception is that it is legit. It is not. We have received specific inputs and based on that we are tracking traffic going to popular gambling and betting sites. We have solid leads of some of the major operators." Explaining the modus operandi, one of the legal casino operators from Goa told Mail Today that agents create their own playing arena on global sites. "Gambling agents have a closed group of players and no outsiders are invited. Only people with references can place the stakes. The confirmation about the invite comes at the eleventh hour and the link to the gaming arena is shared through WhatsApp or other such messaging apps," the operator explained. "Players use an allotted nickname and there is no transaction of real money. Only points and credit score codes are provided. After the end of each game, the credit score is noted and the next day an agent goes and collect the money from the players," the operator said. advertisement Police officials estimate that each year during Diwali, over Rs 1,000 crore are pumped in "illegal gambling" in the national capital. As these games involve cash, it attracts a lot of unaccounted money. But experts say these figures are just a tip of the iceberg as underground gambling is a multi-billion industry in those Indian states where betting is illegal. Gambling is prohibited in a 'common gaming house' when there is an element of commercial motive for the organisers. However, gambling in a private enclosure where there is no invitation to members of the public and no element of 'profit or gain', is not illegal. While popularity of digital gambling is rising, experts say the traditional ways remain popular as ever. "I don't see traditional ways of betting going down. Players still like to sit across the table with real players, read their expression and place their bets with adrenaline rush," said Jay Sayta, a researcher in gambling laws and founder of GLaws.in, a gaming laws web portal. advertisement "But yes, a large number of people have also moved online. With dedicated forums to host gambling games to live casinos, Indians are playing it all." Jay said it is tough for law enforcement agencies to keep a check on offline and online gambling. "Gambling is a bailable offence and hence not a deterrence. Laws related to gambling are quite old and do not cover the online part of it. While IT laws can be applied on gamble offenders, it is still tough for cops to catch the online operator, agents or players," said Sayta. Recently, cops arrested a suspended Gurugram Police head constable for allegedly running an illegal casino in the upscale South City-I colony. Cops also arrested 41 people, including city businessmen and four women. Meanwhile, All India Gaming Federation has demanded making skill-based games legal. "The casino business has huge potential as it can generate revenue for the state. Black money is involved in it as it is not legal. As soon as a state decides to legalise and regulate it, many corporates will come forward to operate it professionally," said Roland Landers, CEO AIGF. --- ENDS --- advertisement A Lexington 13-year-old is receiving treatment at UK Hospital after police say he was shot in the leg. Police say the shooting happened around 5 p.m. They believe it happened in the back area of Valley Park near Cambridge Drive in Lexington. Police say they were not able to find the scene of the shooting during the initial investigation. Police say the victim is not identifying who the subject is. Police are looking for the suspect. By PTI: By Fakir Hassen Johannesburg, Oct 16 (PTI) A new endowment fund has been launched in memory of South African Indian-origin anti- apartheid activist Ahmed Timol, who was murdered 46 years ago. Charitable organisation Awqaf South Africa announced the establishment of the fund in the wake of a historic high court ruling last Friday, which said that Timol, then 29, was murdered while in detention at the notorious John Vorster Square police station in central Johannesburg. advertisement Apartheid-era security police had claimed that Timol committed suicide by jumping out of the window of an upper floor of the building while being questioned. While announcing the launch of the Awqaf South Africa Ahmed Timol Endowment Fund, Awqaf SA Chairman, Haroon Kalla, said it was a fitting tribute to a struggle hero. "He was a fearless young man who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that others could bask in the light of constitutional freedom," Kalla said, adding that beneficiaries of the endowment fund would be young people involved in political and developmental studies. "We feel that this would be the best way to honour the memory of Ahmed Timol, and we are excited to make this announcement at such an important juncture," Kalla said. PTI FH AJR --- ENDS --- A minor fire broke out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Office around 3 35 AM today. Fire tenders reached the spot immediately and doused the fire in 20 minutes. By India Today Web Desk: A minor fire broke out at the PMO at South Block, Raisina Hills around 3 35 AM today. A tweet from ANI said that the fire broke out in room number 242 that is on the second floor of the PMO. #Delhi: Fire broke out in Room No. 242, located on the second floor of Prime Minister's Office around 3.35 AM. Situation now under control. pic.twitter.com/9dW5bVLsNI- ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2017 advertisement 10 fire tenders were rushed to the site and the flames were doused within 20 minutes. The situation is now under control, there have been no casualties reported. Divisional Fire Officer Gurmukh Singh told ANI that the fire broke out due to a spark in a UPS used for a computer inside the office. The room belonged to a section's officer. More details awaited. --- ENDS --- A group of seemingly-educated youngsters have bought crackers and fireworks worth thousands in protest against the Supreme Court ban on the sale of firecrackers and the recurring plea from those who think people should not use firecrackers to celebrate Diwali. Firecrackers a group of educated youngsters bought just to prove a point to those who oppose bursting crackers on Diwali By India Today Web Desk: The Supreme Court of India, on October 9, just 10 days before Diwali, issued an order banning the sale of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR till November 1. This, quite obviously, hurt the sentiments of many people living in the national capital region, and even those who live in other parts of the country worrying if the Supreme Court would impose a blanket ban on the use of firecrackers across India. advertisement For another week, social media was flooded with people debating for and against the ban. While one group considered the ban a direct denial of their right to religion, the other group spoke about the larger picture and the kind of pollution firecrackers cause. Adding to this mix, a group of seemingly-educated youngsters came up with a video to show how they were celebrating their 'green' Diwali. And how do you think they did that? Simple. By stocking a room with firecrackers, especially the ones that are green in colour. Watch these very smart men describe their intentions, and send their message to liberals, or as they like to call, 'libtards'. TO BURN OR NOT TO BURN This is over and above the usual debate that begins as Diwali approaches every year where one group speaks against the use of firecrackers stating the damage it does to the environment and the other group playing up the religion card saying it is only Hindus who are forced to make compromises in India. The former group of people are usually tagged "libtards" and "sickulars" -- the internet slag for liberals and seculars -- and the latter group is tagged "sanghis" -- staunch right-wing supporters -- when in reality these could be entirely wrong. For starters, a "liberal", by definition, cannot be someone who opposes someone else's choice. So, logically, those who speak for the firecracker ban cannot be liberals because they are denying someone else's choice to celebrate a festival the way they want to. For instance, there could be liberals who actually take liberal stand on issues and hence understand that for some people. WHAT IS THE FIRECRACKER BAN ALL ABOUT? Earlier this month, the Supreme Court announced a ban on the sale and stocking of firecrackers in New Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) till November 1. "We should see at least in one Diwali the impact of a cracker-free festivity," said Justice AK Sikri while restoring the order. Fairly speaking, the ban does not forbid burning of crackers, but merely on the sale of it, which means no one can burst your bubble if you're shooting a firecracker. The ban has been implemented in the hopes that it will help improve air quality in the Capital. People who have already purchased fireworks will be able to use them. advertisement There have also been reports of shops and wholesale cracker market in east Delhi continuing their business in a hush-hush way. --- ENDS --- 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 Woonsocket City Council President Dan Gendron, center, joins close to 250 walkers as they begin the 29th annual ShelterWalk for the Homeless at River Island Park Saturday morning. By Pramod Madhav: Eight Indian Tamil fishermen were arrested and a boat was seized by Sri Lankan Navy today early morning. The fishermen, who were natives of Rameswaram, had left for fishing after receiving permit token from fisheries department authorities. Other fishermen who returned said that they were surrounded by Sri Lankan Navy. Some of them said that they were not allowed to fish in the regular zones and they had to take a long trip to catch fish. They reportedly surrounded when they were returning to the shore between Katchatheevu and Dhanushkodi. advertisement According to sources, the Sri Lankan Navy destroyed nets and boats after arresting the fishermen. The fishermen said that they incurred losses amounting to about Rs 75,000. Sri Lankan Navy reportedly has 150 Indian fishing boats in its custody. Also, Sri Lankan fisheries minister had earlier stated that the fine for fishing in Sri Lankan waters would be increased to Rs 6.75. Fishermen from Rameswaram lament that even after acquiring adequate permissions, they are not allowed to fish. They said that they did not receive any help from the Indian government over this matter. Also Watch : MK Stalin condemns killing of Indian fisherman, says Centre can't be mere spectator --- ENDS --- Impact of Hanhikivi 1 licensing delay remains unclear 17 October 2017 Share Although the delay in receiving the construction licence for the Hanhikivi 1 nuclear power plant will not affect the cost of the project, its impact on the commissioning schedule will become clearer later this year, Fennovoima CEO Toni Hemminki told journalists last week. The company began excavation work at the site in Pyhajoki in northern Finland in January last year. Ground works under way at the Hanhikivi 1 site (Image: WNN) Fennovoima submitted its 250-page construction licence application to Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy for the planned Hanhikivi 1 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. Last month, Fennovoima said it now expects to receive the construction licence for its planned Hanhikivi 1 plant in 2019, instead of the previously scheduled 2018. The review of documentation related to its application is taking longer than originally envisaged, the company said. Speaking at Fennovoima's headquarters in Helsinki on 10 October, Hemminki said the licence delay will not affect the cost of the project as the plant is being constructed by Russia's Rosatom under a fixed-price contract signed in December 2013. The company still expects the plant to start up in 2024, he said, adding it will be able to comment further once discussions with the supplier have been completed later this year. Jorma Aurela, chief engineer at the energy department at the Ministry of Employment & the Economy, said the same day there had been "some fluctuation" with the construction licence schedule. "We now expect that first Fennovoima's supplier - Rosatom - will have a unanimous opinion of what the schedule will be. Then they will deliver it to Stuk [the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority] and they will then tell us when they think they will have their statement and their safety review," he said. "It will not be many weeks after this that we can go to the government and present the construction licence [application]." This is expected to be in 2019, he noted. The Hanhikivi 1 project is expected to cost 6.7 billion, with about one-quarter of this provided by equity contributions from the project shareholders. The remainder will be provided through debt financing, of which half was agreed with Rosatom in 2015. The other half is under negotiation and will mainly be covered by Export Credit Agency guarantee financing instruments. Hemminki said the project will have a significant impact on the national economy. Citing a research paper from Finland's Technical Research Centre, he said the plant, once in operation, will increase the gross national product by over 0.25%. The impact on the Finnish economy will be 500 million annually, while the municipality of Pyhajoki - where the plant is located - will receive some 4.2 million per year in real estate taxes. Minna Forsstrom, Fennovoima's director of the Hanhikivi 1 project, said that during 2017 and 2018, the company will focus on the review and delivery of construction licence documentation. The Russian partners in the project have played a big role in producing the construction licence application documents, which Fennovoima then reviews and delivers to Stuk. Stuk then reviews them, making comments and additional requirements before approving them. Stuk will submit a safety assessment for the project to the Ministry of Economics, which will consider this together with statements from various stakeholders, authorities and the public. It will then propose approval of the construction licence to the government, which will then grant the licence. Fennovoima will also start the production of long-lead items for the plant and the development of the supply chain, Forsstrom said. However, she noted that Fennovoima has no target for localisation from the Finnish supply chain. Meanwhile, preparatory works at the construction site will continue. Progress at construction site Fennovoima began excavation work at the Hanhikivi site in Pyhajoki, which is in northern Finland, in January last year and aims to complete infrastructure work by the end of this year. More than 118,000 cubic meters of topsoil have been removed from the site so far. Plant excavation is currently at -2 meters and will eventually be -7 to -16 meters. Construction of the plant - based on a Russian-designed 1200 MWe AES-2006 VVER - can only start once the construction licence has been issued. Excavation works for the plant's reactor building (Image: WNN) Jouni Sipilainen, Fennovoima's construction director, said there will be 400-500 million of investments at the site before plant construction actually begins. Speaking to journalists at the construction site on 10 October, Sipilainen said the company had already completed the 4 kilometer long Hanhikiventie Road, which links the plant construction site to the main road running through the area. Construction of the training building and security gate building has also been completed. The first few of 21 two-story accommodation buildings have also been built, as have two concrete mixing plants. Work on an administration building, costing over 10 million, is also under way. Once completed in early 2020, Fennovoima will move its headquarters from Helsinki to the Hanhikivi 1 site. Although just one reactor is planned for the Hanhikivi 1 plant, an area of land has been reserved for a second unit, should the company decide to expand it. Fennovoima owns the Hanhikivi project, 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 project. In line with its shareholding in Fennovoima, Rosatom will receive one-third of the electricity production of Hanhikivi 1 at cost price (50 per MWh). Finnish energy scene Nuclear's share of Finnish electricity production is expected to increase from its current 30% to 36%-37% when the Olkiluoto 3 EPR starts up in 2019, said Liisa Heikinheimo, deputy director general of the energy department at the Ministry of Employment & the Economy. When the Hanhikivi 1 plant is commissioned, this will increase to 40%-45%, depending on whether the two VVER-440 units at Loviisa are permitted to operate beyond 2027 and 2030, respectively. Chief engineer Aurela noted that Finnish energy demand has declined from around 90 TWh to 80 TWh over the past decade. Meanwhile, electricity imports have increased due to delays in bringing Olkiluoto 3 on line. Imports are expected to continue rising as the country shuts down coal-fired plants in line with its plan to end coal use by 2020. Hydro power is expected to continue providing 10-15% of Finland's electricity. Researched and written by World Nuclear News Related topics WANO members 'consider challenges of the future' 17 October 2017 Share Corporate leadership, knowledge transfer to the 'young generation' and providing the necessary support to new units entering operations were among the subjects under discussion during the World Association of Nuclear Operators' 14th Biennial General Meeting, held in Gyeongju, South Korea. The BGM, under the theme of Leading Nuclear Safety in a Changing World, was attended by more than 300 experts from the WANO membership and other industry organisations. WANO also launched a revision to its long-term plan, Compass, "reflecting the changes to the industry landscape" that have taken place in the two years since its inception. WANO CEO Peter Prozesky said: "It is inspiring to see members come together as 'One WANO', with the aim of supporting each other in the journey towards excellence in nuclear safety. These three days in Gyeongju have demonstrated the industry's ongoing commitment to the highest possible safety standards and to the vital task of supporting one another as peers to improve performance. While the nuclear landscape is changing and remains challenging, WANO has adjusted its course to enable it to provide the most targeted and effective support to its members." WANO Chairman Jacques Regaldo added: "In choosing to belong to WANO, we must continue to demonstrate that we are able and willing to overcome our differences. We have to demonstrate every day that this venture transcends borders, local economic considerations and geopolitical tensions. Nuclear safety requires us to put aside individual interests in favour of solidarity and the common good. For everybody, experienced operators, developing countries, newcomers - WANO is our common home." During WANO's extraordinary general meeting on 16 October, the membership elected Simone Rossi, incoming CEO of EDF Energy, as the future new WANO President. WANO is a not-for-profit member association established in 1989 by the world's nuclear power operators to exchange safety knowledge and operating experience amongst organisations operating commercial nuclear power reactors. WANO members operate some 440 nuclear units in more than 30 countries and areas around the world. Its next BGM is to be held in 2019 in London. Researched and written by World Nuclear News Related topics Lightbridge fuel moves towards irradiation testing 17 October 2017 Share Lightbridge Corporation has signed orders with the Institute for Energy Technology (IFE), operator of Norway's Halden research reactor, for the design and fabrication of a second irradiation rig for testing of its fuels. The IFE is already manufacturing a first test rig ready for irradiation testing of Lightbridge's fuel samples in the reactor. IFE and Lightbridge teams at IFE facilities in Halden following the signing of the new task orders (Image: Lightbridge) Reston, Virginia-based Lightbridge plans to conduct full irradiation testing of fabricated fuel samples under commercial reactor operating conditions in a pressurised water loop at the Halden reactor. The company said yesterday it is making progress towards the start of irradiation testing, and has recently inspected hardware components manufactured by the IFE for the first irradiation rig. The first irradiation rig will host a four-rod bundle of Lightbridge's four-lobe fuel rods and will be placed into the reactor. Its design allows removal of partially irradiated rods and insertion of new rods to enable early collection of data from post-irradiation examination. The second irradiation rig, for which Lightbridge and the IFE have now signed task orders, will be designed to constrain the radial expansion of the four-rod bundle to simulate conditions inside an actual commercial fuel assembly. Lightbridge CEO Seth Grae said testing of fuel samples in the Halden reactor would be an important milestone for bringing its fuel technology to market. "The irradiation testing program is being structured at the Halden reactor and US commercial nuclear plants in parallel to demonstrate operation of the first Lightbridge fuel rod in a commercial reactor in the US as soon as 2021," he said. The company has previously said irradiation testing is expected to begin in the Halden reactor this year. Lightbridge's advanced metallic fuel is made from a zirconium-uranium alloy and uses a unique composition and fuel rod geometry, which, the company says, enables it to operate at a higher power density than uranium oxide fuels in use today. The company holds numerous patents from countries including Canada, China, Japan, Russia, South Korea and the USA, as well as European patents. The company recently signed a binding agreement with North American Areva NP (Areva Inc) to set up a 50:50 joint venture to be the exclusive vehicle through which the companies will research, develop, demonstrate, fabricate, license, market and sell fuel assemblies using Lightbridge's proprietary metallic fuel designs and other advanced nuclear fuel intellectual property contributed by both companies. IFE president Nils Morten Huseby said the institute has over the past two years been working closely with Lightbridge in preparation for the irradiation testing. "Nuclear power plants benefit from R&D advances and related technical solutions, which is why Halden's strong international profile and solid technical basis is such an asset for the nuclear community," he said. The Halden reactor is a 25 MWt boiling heavy water reactor built into a rock hillside on the north bank of the river Tista in south-east Norway. Used as a tool to investigate nuclear fuels and materials, the reactor's loop systems can simulate the conditions found inside commercial pressurised water reactors and boiling water reactors. The Halden Project, established in 1958, is a joint undertaking of national organisations from 19 countries who sponsor the jointly financed programme under the auspices of the OECD-Nuclear Energy Agency. The reactor started up in 1959. Researched and written by World Nuclear News Related topics More than 420 million people live in South America with Brazil having the highest population among the South American countries. The population is unevenly distributed throughout the continent. Tropical rainforests, the Atacama Desert, Patagonia are some of the places with low population density. The continent also has some great urban centers that are heavily populated. Here we discuss the smallest countries in South America in terms of population. They are as follows: 5. Bolivia - 10 million Surrounded by land on all sides, Bolivia is the fifth least populated country in South America. It is located in the west-central part of the continent. Nearly one-third of Bolivias land area is covered by the Andes mountains.The population of Bolivia is 10,887,880 people. In the past five years, the population has grown at a very high rate of 2.25% and tripled. The Quechua is the largest ethnic group and accounts for 45.6% of the Bolivian population. The Aymara make up 42.4% of the population. 4. Paraguay - 6.7 million Surrounded by land on all sides, Paraguay is a country located in the central region of South America. The Paraguay River runs north to south through the central part of the country. Paraguay has a population of 6,725,310 people. The population is highly unevenly distributed in the country with the area in and around the capital city of Asuncion in the eastern part of the country hosting the majority of the population. Although the Gran Chaco region occupies 60% of Paraguays territory, it is home to only 2% of the population. Paraguay has a nearly ethnically homogeneous population with 95% mestizos. 3. Uruguay - 3.4 million Uruguay has the third lowest population in South America. This country, located in the southeastern part of the continent with a coastline along the Atlantic, has a population of 3,444,010. Uruguay also occupies an area of 176,000 square km, making it the continents second smallest country by size. The population of Uruguay is mainly concentrated around the metropolitan area of Montevideo, the capital of the nation. 87.7% of Uruguayans are of European descent. 2. Guyana - 700 thousand Located in northern South America with a coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, Guyana is the fourth smallest nation in the continent by size. It has an area of 215,000 square km. Guyana is the second smallest country by population. As of 2016, the population is 773,300 and the population density is quite low at 4 inhabitants per square km. The coastal areas account for 90% of the countrys population. The country has a rich ethnic diversity. The Indo-Guyanese constitute the largest ethnic group. The culture of the country is heavily influenced by the Caribbean culture. 57.4% of the population identify as Christians. 1. Suriname - 500 thousand Located on the Atlantic coast of northeastern South America, and occupying an area of 165,000 square km, Suriname is the smallest country in the continent by size. It is also the least populated country in South America. The population of Suriname is 558,370, as of 2016. Most of the people in the country inhabit the coastal areas. Amerindians, East Indians, Creoles, Maroons, Javanese are only some of the ethnic groups residing in this multicultural nation. Protestant Christianity, Hinduism, Roman Catholicism, and Islam are the top four religions by the number of followers in Suriname. The crusade to ban plastic bags has become an important component of the mainstream environmentalism movement over recent years, and the reasons for this are no mystery. Not only is it well documented that plastic bags can take years to decompose in landfills, but we know that they also clog up landfills, strangle marine life, and are a nightmare for sewage systems. The negative impact of plastic bags is so extreme that many countries around the world have taken action by placing tariffs or banning the use of plastic bags altogether - a trend that started with Bangladesh in 2002 and most recently continued with Kenya in 2017. A Modern Convenience Plastic bags are used by people across the planet. They are generally made of plastic films usually polyethylene which are then heat-sealed together. Ethylene itself comes from kenyapetroleum and natural gas. The plastic bag as we know it today first emerged on the shopping scene sometime in the 1960s, as a brainchild of a Swedish designer by the name of Sten Gustaf Thulin. By the 1980s, the use of the plastic bag was ubiquitous in consumer society. Until the 2000s, plastic bags were almost never made of biodegradable materials, meaning that they could take centuries to decompose. Although biodegradable materials are the norm today, it does not mean that the effects of plastic bags are benign (nor does it mean we are no longer feeling the effects from previous generations of bag use). Today, even if bags are thrown out or recycled, their lightweight properties mean they are susceptible to being carried by the wind, which can transport them into streams and eventually into the world's oceans. As of this moment in time, it is estimated that there are 5.25 billion pieces of plastic polluting the ocean, and this plastic's preferred form is bags. The Anti-Bag Era The problems that plastic bags pose to the environment is not complicated, but sometimes implementing legislation against bags is. In many countries of the world, the use of bags is often taxed in an effort to work twofold: it discourages consumers from relying on them for the transportation of goods, while encouraging consumers to make choices that are more environmentally friendly. Some countries take it further by banning the production and use of bags completely. The implications of these fines vary, though perhaps the most intense of these bans is the case of Kenya, where simply using a plastic bag could invite a massive fine. The Kenyan ban follows a trend seen in many African countries who have gone to great lengths to ban plastic bags completely. After all, in many places on the continent, plastic bags pose a major problem as they clog sewer systems and kill livestock such as cows who mistakenly mistake the plastic and choke. Plastic bag bans and taxes are often successful, but they have to be implemented properly. For example, in Ireland, a simple tax on plastic bags was successful in dramatically cutting down on plastic bag use. However, in Bangladesh, the world's first country to ban plastic bags, the law is unfortunately not always strictly enforced. This is particularly a problem for a country that is prone to flooding of extremely catastrophic proportions. Regardless of a ban's enforcement, experts warn that it may take more than just legislation alone to help reduce worldwide plastic bag reliance. World Atlas recently spoke with Yusra Jaffer, the public relations manager for the Environment Society of Oman (ESO), who believes that changing consumer habits could go a long way towards a cleaner future. Yusra Jaffer stated that "there are literally 1000s of items used daily that need not be disposable plastic. Currently they are made of plastic due to the convenience and lowest cost method to manufacture these items, but this comes at a cost to the environment much more than we can afford. Plastic bags are not currently banned in the country of Oman, found on the southeast Arabian Peninsula, but the ESO is hoping that a ban or tax could soon become a reality for the country. Banning Plastic Bags: Is It Enough? For Yusra Jaffer, the banning of plastic bags is no small token, stating that "reducing our use of single-use disposable plastic items is one of the most important changes we can make to reduce waste and the amount of waste dumped into landfills. We can replace plastic bags with reusable cloth bags and replace single use containers with reusable containers. However, it is clear that consumer habits also must change. There was a time when we did not rely on plastic bags much at all. The world has changed plenty since then, but there is no reason why we cannot again experience a shift in our collective habits - this time for the better. Plastic bags not yet banned in your area? Check out the official World Atlas tips on what you can do to reduce your use of plastic: Keep reusable bags in your car or your backpack. This way, you will not have to rely on using plastic bags should you find yourself unexpectedly at the store. Support local grocery stores who use reuse boxes as a way of transporting groceries home. Invest in tote bags or other types of bags that you can reuse again and again. Invest in a reusable water bottle to cut back on your purchase of bottled water (if the water in your area is safe to drink). Refrain from buying items which contain microbeads. Try to avoid products that include excessive packaging. Ensure that you are always disposing of plastics properly. Write to your local government officials to let them know that you would like to see legislation in place that bans the use of plastic bags. ** Rachel Cribby is a Montreal-based writer and editor. By PTI: New Delhi, Oct 17 (PTI) Scented diyas and candles fill the air with aromas during the festive season, but East Delhi residents have been forced to cope with garbage stench this Diwali due to a strike by civic sanitation workers. Scores of sanitation workers of the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC), who are demanding payment of their salaries, clearance of arrears and medical cashless card, protested outside the office of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia as their strike entered its seventh day today. advertisement "We dumped garbage in front of his office in Madhi Vihar area and also burnt his effigy. The honourable (Delhi) High Court has already ticked off the Delhi government for not ensuring the payment of salaries for the sanitation workers. "If authorities do not listen to our demands, we will intensify the stir," said Sanjay Gehlot, president of the MCD Swachhata Karmchari Union. Garbage mounted in colonies in Patparganj, Kailash Nagar, Ajit Nagar, among other places, as the air filled with stench. The union had yesterday also claimed that sections of workers from north and south civic bodies have also joined the agitation, but the civic bodies had denied it. Prior to this, the EDMC sanitation workers had protested outside the residence of East Delhi Mayor Neema Bhagat in Geeta Colony and also burnt her effigy. All three municipal corporations are led by the BJP. The opposition AAP in the civic bodies had yesterday hit out at the corporations over the issue, even as its leader in the NDMC, Rakesh Kumar, said, "We have urged other workers to not go on strike till Diwali at least, as it is not the fault of people of Delhi but of the civic bodies." The AAP leader said his colleague Vikas Goyal, a councillor and a member of the standing committee of the NDMC, yesterday tried to raise the issue of sanitation, but the standing committee "did not allow" him to do so. He even sat on the floor of the House in protest, but to no avail, as people in the ruling party in the corporation are "not serious", Kumar alleged. "We have even asked for a special House session to be convened to discuss it, but it hasnt been heeded. We have been trying to meet the L-G for two months, but have not got any response so far. We are with the workers and if needed will join their protest later," Kumar said. PTI KND ASK ASK --- ENDS --- (Scroll down for video) An illegal immigrant admitted to beheading his mother because he felt like it, according to police in North Carolina. Franklin County District Attorney Michael Waters said that the court decided not to proceed with the case against 18-year-old Oliver Mauricio Funes Machado after doctors from the Central Regional Hospital claimed the defendant did not have the mental capacity to stand trial. Machado is receiving mental health treatment at the Central Regional Hospital. When he is released, Machado will be charged with first-degree murder for killing his mother, 35-year-old Yesenia Funez Beatriz. According to the criminal complaint, in March, Machado called 911 on himself around 12:45 p.m. to report that he just killed his mother at their home located on Morgan Drive. Police officers who arrived at the scene surrounded the house and ordered Machado to come out. Machado then walked out of the house, holding the murder weapon in one hand and his mothers head in the other. Police took him into custody without incident. Officers rushed inside the house, where they found two girls. The girls were not harmed. A fourth child was at school when the incident occurred. The motheras body was also found in the home. Machado was released from the hospital, where he was being treated for a mental illness, several days before the murder. Machado is taking four different medications for psychosis and schizophrenia. During questioning, Machado told police that he cut off his mothers head because he felt like it. Machado was illegally residing in the United States, and ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) placed a detainer on him. By Rohini Swamy: In a mega India Today exclusive, picture of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh's murderer has been retrieved from the CCTV footage with the help of technical experts. The picture is an enhanced close-up and distinctly shows the facial features of the killer. This comes days after the SIT probing Lankesh's murder released sketches of all the three accused. advertisement The picture accessed by India Today is only a screengrab of the CCTV footage, which has been enhanced for definition. Sketch of the killer released Senior journalist and social activist Gauri Lankesh , 55, was shot dead on the night of September 5 by unidentified men outside her residence. "She was shot dead from a close range at her house in Rajarajeshwari Nagar around 8 pm as she was entering her house," said T Suneel Kumar, Bengaluru police commissioner. Lankesh was the editor of weekly Kannada tabloid Lankesh Patrike and a columnist for several dailies. According to police, the assailants fired seven bullets at Gauri Lankesh, of which three hit her and four missed the target. Two bullets hit her in the chest, while another hit her forehead. Lankesh's murder sparked outrage across the country. Protests were organised in several states to condemn the journalist's death. In Karnataka, journalists, writers, activists and members of women organisation took part in the silent protest at Town Hall. "You can kill a person but not their ideas ," read a placard of a protester. The Karnataka Police launched a hunt to nab Gauri Lankesh's killers after the incident. "Three special teams, set up to crack the case, are on the lookout for the suspected assailants. We are tracking the movements of people and vehicles at check posts and inter-state borders," said deputy police commissioner (West) M N Anucheth. The state government has also announced Rs 10 lakh reward to anyone giving information leading to their arrest. Also watch: Exclusive: India Today accesses picture of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh's murderer --- ENDS --- Confusion over active plans to open drug consumption room in Wrexham This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Oct 17th, 2017 The BBCs flagship UK-wide Ten OClock News programme on Wednesday last week featured a report on heroin usage, and various ideas being trialled around the UK to help with the issue including drug consumption rooms, also known as safe injecting facilities. The BBC report cited the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones visiting such a facility, and impressed by its results says there are now active plans to open a similar facility in Wrexham. The section of the report in the below video referred to a drug consumption room while showing pictures of Arfon Jones touring such a facility in Switzerland . We asked Wrexham Council and others if there were plans to open such a facility in Wrexham, and other associated questions including if such a consumption room was discussed as an outcome at the Gold Command grouping set up recently to deal with the recent issues on the Groves site. Wrexham Council bluntly told us: The Council arent aware of any plans. Local MP Ian Lucas provided us with a copy of a letter he has sent to the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable of North Wales Police relating to these questions on the 12th, noting his role in collective Gold Group work. Part of the letter reads: It is, therefore, disappointing to, again, see Arfon pursuing agendas which do not assist this process when he has not been directly involved in the steps which are being taken to address the problems we have in Wrexham, Indeed, his withdrawal of funding for Hafan-y-Dref undercut ideas we discussed to try to address the problems. Last night, we had a national news report returning to the issue of injecting rooms in Wrexham, an issue not discussed at the Gold Group which includes the police. I am not aware that this is a proposal that the police, the Council or the Health Board are considering. Alex Goss says he has no knowledge and he is the Divisional Commander. If the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner cannot engage constructively in addressing these difficult problems, it should not engage at all. It cannot pursue policies that are not discussed or approved by those whose responsibility it is to manage the situation, namely the Gold Group. We asked Betsi Cadwaladr University Heath Board about the active plans, enquiring what progress had been made and why they felt it was a good idea. Carole Evanson, Clinical Network Manager for Substance Misuse Services, told us Weve had no formal discussions with our partner organisations about the introduction of drug consumption facilities in Wrexham, or anywhere else in North Wales, but we are committed to working with them to ensure that together we provide the most appropriate evidence based interventions and treatments for drug users. Our focus is to help people overcome their addiction and as such the treatment is recovery focused. Our services include detoxification and various talking therapies, and we also offer pharmacological treatments providing substitute medications and relapse prevention medication. In addition, our Harm Reduction Service, which offers advice on things like safer injecting and needle exchanges, encourages people into treatment and also gives advice on matters such as accommodation and employment. We had queried at the same time to the Police and Crime Commissioner, and followed up yesterday noting that, as above, various stakeholders appeared unaware of any plans. A reply was received from the PCCs public relations provider, in which Arfon Jones said: I have been clear from the outset about my view that having a Safe Injecting Facility or a consumption room in Wrexham could be beneficial and could help save lives. The idea is work in progress, with both the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) and the local authority being aware of the proposal which has already been discussed by the Area Planning Board. It was also discussed at BCUHB Substance Abuse Meeting at Llangefni in August as well as with senior Welsh Government officials and with the Deputy Minister, Rebecca Evans today. Quite rightly, this matter is a priority for the Welsh Government Advisory Panel for Substance Abuse. My stance on this subject is well known so it is hard to understand why Mr Lucas, Wrexham Council and the health board would say they have no knowledge of it. Opening a Safe Injecting Facility is an option we have to address to ensure harm reduction while at the same time making things better for the local community. This is such a serious matter that it is incumbent on us to think outside the box and come up with solutions that actually work, for everybodys sake. This is what I am trying to do. Police Appeal After Elderly Llay Couple Targeted By Thieves checking on storm damage This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Oct 17th, 2017 North Wales Police are appealing for information after two men posing as police officers entered the home of an elderly couple and stole a substantial quantity of cash. The incident happened at around 7.45pm on Monday, October 16 in Watts Dyke Llay, near Wrexham. The men, one wearing a Hi-Viz jacket, claimed they were police officers checking on storm damage and insisted they enter the house to turn off the water stop-cock. After they had left the couple noticed that money had been stolen and a search made of a bedroom cupboard. One suspect is described as tall, in his 30s, and of large build. He was wearing a black woolly jumper, a peaked cap and a yellow Hi-Viz jacket. The other male is described as in his 20s, slim and about 5ft 6ins tall. He had a moustache and was wearing a black hoody and black trousers. DI Mark Hughes said; This was a particularly mean crime committed against an elderly couple in their own home. We are keen to hear from any witnesses or anyone who may know who these suspects are, to contact us on 101 quoting reference V157593. North Wales Police would like to remind residents to be aware of cold callers. Doorstep crime can take a number of forms, but is carried out by criminals who deliberately target the most vulnerable members of our communities. Police have offered the following advice: One: If in doubt, keep them out. It sounds simple, but if you dont let someone in they will go away. Dont let them pressure you into opening the door. Two: Be prepared. Be in control. Think about what to say to doorstep cold callers in advance. Keep a list of key contact numbers near your phone so you can check out legitimate callers. Ask all other unwanted callers to go away. Three: Call a neighbour or the police. Contact a local relative or nominated neighbour who can help verify a cold caller. To report a distraction burglar or rogue trader who has taken your money and is still in the area call 999. If you do happen to get caught off guard and a cold caller does manage to get into your house, let us know about it as soon as possible. Theres nothing to be embarrassed about, and the sooner we know about it, the better chance we have of catching them and recovering your property. North Wales Police work closely with local authority Trading Standards Teams and local partnerships to reduce this type of crime. Proposals for Wales parliamentary constituency map sees big changes for Wrexham & Clwyd South This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Oct 17th, 2017 The Boundary Commission for Wales today published comprehensive details of its proposals for a revised Parliamentary constituency map following an initial consultation in 2016. The launch marks the start of the final eight-week public consultation period during which the Commission has taken on board comments and concerns raised by the Welsh public during the 2016 consultation and is asking people once again to have their say on the proposals by submitting written representations by post or online. We have created this quick overlay map to show the differences locally, which would see a larger Wrexham and elongated version of Clwyd South: Wrexhams MP Ian Lucas told us While I am happier with these proposals than previous ones, they remain a cynical exercise by the Conservatives and one which is unlikely to pass given the current political situation. What remains important to me is working for the people of Wrexham whatever that seat ends up looking like. Current Clwyd South MP Susan Elan Jones told us, The current Clwyd South constituency already covers 240 square miles; 549 of the UKs current 650 constituency are smaller than it. Under the revised proposals, the new South Clwyd and North Montgomery constituency is well above 1,000 square kilometres with Welshpool, Machynlleth, Denbigh, Ruabon and Llandrillo in the same seat! Some people from our area go on holiday to Welshpool and Machynlleth, so its just unbelievable to think that all those places and many more are supposed to be in a single parliamentary constituency. My main concern in all this is about proper constituency representation, based on an MP and their staff team helping real people who live in real communities in our area. Regardless of which political party we support, how is that supposed to happen if we end up with these enormous constituencies? I know many people think that the revised boundary changes wont be adopted because the Tory Government doesnt have the required support to get them through Parliament. My view is that they should be dropped anyway. If the Government seriously wants to reduce the costs of Parliament, why dont they cut the number of members of the unelected House of Lords? Some peers do really good work, but I dont think we need 800 of them! 300 maximum would be fine for an effective, revising chamber. Thats where savings should be made, not by reducing the number of parliamentary constituencies. The Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011 requires a reduction in the number of UK constituencies from 650 to 600 and for every UK constituency to have an electorate within the range of 71,031 to 78,507. In all bar one case, the number of eligible voters in each proposed new constituency is much larger than in the current Welsh constituencies. Compliance with the legislation requires a reduction in the number of constituencies in Wales from 40 to 29, which is the biggest single change to Wales electoral map since the Boundary Commission was created in 1944. There are changes to 19 of the Commissions initial proposals in the Commissions revised proposals, and some of the proposed alterations are considerable. These proposals have taken into account comments, considerations and concerns raised during the two public consultations in late 2016 and early 2017. The Commission points out that, while its proposals meet the statutory criteria, it has also taken into account other relevant factors important to Wales, such as: geographical considerations, including the size, shape and accessibility of constituencies, local government boundaries; boundaries of existing constituencies and any local ties that would be broken by changes in constituencies. Steve Halsall, Secretary to the Commission, said today, The Commission has produced a set of proposals which meet the requirements of the 2011 Act. It has also taken into account other relevant factors and has sought to identify the solutions most suitable to local needs within Wales. I would emphasise that these are not the final set of proposals so I urge the Welsh public to take this opportunity to have their say during this consultation period. The Commission has sought in its revised proposals to identify the solutions most suitable to local needs within Wales. It now wants to hear what people of Wales think. Mr Halsall added: Over the next eight weeks people may visit our consultation portal, write in or email us to let us know what they think of the Commissions proposals. Whether they accept or object, we are keen to hear peoples views. Where they object particularly where they can supply counter-proposals the Commission will give full consideration and may amend its proposals accordingly. The Commissions final proposals will be submitted by October 2018. Full details are available at www.bcomm-wales.gov.uk, www.bcw2018.org.uk and http://bcomm-wales.gov.uk/2018-review/faqs?lang=en The proposed new Parliamentary constituencies are: Alyn and Deeside; Blaenau Gwent; Brecon, Radnor and Montgomery; Bridgend and Vale of Glamorgan West; Caerfyrddin; Caerphilly; Cardiff North; Cardiff South and East; Cardiff West; Ceredigion a Gogledd Sir Benfro; Conwy and Colwyn; Cynon Valley and Pontypridd; De Clwyd a Gogledd Maldwyn; Flint and Rhuddlan; Gwynedd; Gower and Swansea West; Llanelli; Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney; Monmouthshire; Neath; Newport; Ogmore and Aberavon; Rhondda and Llantrisant; Mid and South Pembrokeshire; Swansea East; Torfaen; Vale of Glamorgan East; Wrexham; and, Ynys Mon a Fangor . 15 existing constituencies would be wholly contained within a new constituency namely Alyn and Deeside, Blaenau Gwent, Brecon and Radnorshire, Bridgend, Cardiff West, Ceredigion, Cynon Valley, Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Llanelli, Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, Neath, Rhondda, Torfaen, Wrexham and Ynys Mon. The Commission wish to stress that these revised proposals relate solely to Parliamentary constituencies and do not affect the National Assembly for Wales constituencies, the structure or arrangements of local government or the services they provide. Note: Previously the Boundary Commission for Wales has spent thousands in an attempt to publicise this information, for the record Wrexham.com has covered it previously and today unpaid. Likewise, the Boundary Commission for Wales, nor their communications provider, has not asked. The Ministry of Home Affairs ordered the partial withdrawal of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) deployed in Darjeeling, which has been on the boil for several months due to the Gorkhaland agitation. By Indrajit Kundu: The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday issued an interim stay on the removal of central forces from the Darjeeling hills. The move comes after the West Bengal government challenged the Centre's decision regarding the same. The Centre's decision remains on hold till October 27 when the matter will next come up for hearing. Earlier on Sunday, the Ministry of Home Affairs had ordered the partial withdrawal of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) deployed in Darjeeling , which has been on the boil for several months due to the Gorkhaland agitation. The MHA had cited the need for additional security personnel for the upcoming elections in various states as a reason for the decision. advertisement Initially, the MHA wanted to withdraw 10 of the 15 companies of central forces deployed in the hills, a decision that had drawn the ire of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee , who called up Home Minister Rajnath Singh to raise her objection, following which the number was revised to seven companies. As per the Centre's directive, 7 companies of the central forces, including 3 women companies and 3 companies of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), were to be withdrawn from the hills of Bengal. On Monday, Mamata had lashed out at the Narendra Modi -led union government, alleging that the ruling BJP was trying to foment trouble in the strategically-sensitive area. "It is a political gameplan, a conspiracy by the BJP to divide Bengal and destabilise it. We will not bow before them. Our officer has been killed. Instead of sympathy, they are withdrawing forces to let the culprit and accused off the hook", Mamata said. Also Watch : Battle for Gujarat: BJP, Congress spar over 'vikas' --- ENDS --- The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) national congress, due to begin tomorrow, will seek to consolidate the position of President Xi Jinping as Chinas pre-eminent leader for the next five years, and possibly beyond. Despite concerted efforts to project the image of a stable, unified leadership, the promotion and glorification of Xi signals the opposite. He is being elevated to the status of supreme leader in a bid to contain factional infighting as the regime confronts a slowing economy and rising social tensions at home, and the growing US threat of trade war and war abroad. Xi was elevated to CCP chairman in November 2012 and took over the post of Chinese president in March 2013, as part of the once-in-a-decade generational change that has now become the convention. His installation was accompanied by the ousting and trial of potential rival Bo Xilai, party boss in the major city of Chongqing, on trumped-up corruption charges. Over the past five years, Xi has carried out a widespread anti-corruption drive that, above all, has been aimed at purging potential rivals and silencing opposition to his policies. In July, Sung Zhengcai, who was regarded as a contender for a top leadership role in five years time, was removed as Chongqing party secretary and could face corruption charges. After a plenary meeting of the partys central committee last week, the CCP announced that 12 central committee members, including Sung, had been expelled from the party. In all, some 40 members or alternate members of the central committee have been punished for alleged corruption over the past five years. As of 2016, an estimated one million party members had been investigated. The corruption drive has been one means Xi has used to concentrate power in his hands. He also has carried out an extensive restructuring of the military or Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) and consolidated control in the Central Military Commission that he chairs, rather than regional commands. In March 2017, the state-owned news agency Xinhua reported that a total of 4,885 PLA officers had been punished for graft, including a number of top generals. Xi has tightened his grip over the party and the military as the regime confronts a growing economic and social crisis. The economy has slowed markedly to a projected 6.5 percent growth rate this year and is burdened by high levels of debt. The regime is under pressure from international finance to slash debt, implement austerity measures and further open up the economy to foreign investors. Last month, the international credit rating agency Standard & Poors downgraded Chinas sovereign debt rating for the first time in 18 years. The ousting of Bo Xilai five years ago was a repudiation of the politics he advocatedthe protection and boosting of state-owned enterprises as national champions that could compete internationally, along with a more concerted push-back against US efforts to undermine and contain China, if need be through war. However, while Xi and Premier Li Leqiang have pursued the pro-market agenda demanded by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, they have done so cautiously, fearing that rising unemployment would lead to widespread social unrest. An estimated 5 to 6 million workers are losing their jobs as the government seeks to restructure or shut down so-called zombie state-owned enterprisesthose kept solvent by state bank loansin the steel and coal industries. While no official figures have been released, the annual number of protests and strikes by workers has reportedly increased by 30 percent over the 2010 figure of 210,000. The widening gulf between rich and poor is also fueling hostility and alienation from the CCP leadership, which represents the interests of the super-wealthy layer of billionaires that have profited from capitalist restoration since 1978. Despite government claims that poverty is lessening, social inequality is glaring. According to the National Peoples Congress (NPC) in March 2017, one third of Chinas wealth is owned by the top 1 percent of households. Several of the countrys wealthiest individuals on the Hurun Rich List will be delegates to the CCP congress. As the internal and external problems besetting the Chinese leadership have intensified, Xi has been more and more promoted as the countrys saviour. Last October, he was designated the regimes core leadera phrase now ritually used in reference to his role. He has strengthened his grip over virtually every aspect of policy, including the economy that traditionally came within the premiers sphere, by establishing and controlling key leading groups. Xi also has strenuously promoted Chinese nationalism. His so-called Chinese Dream is for the country to rid itself of the legacy of 19th century domination by the major powers and become a major power in its own right. According to some analysts, Xi may try to elevate his status by formally elaborating so-called Xi Jinping Thought and even using the congress to insert a reference to it in the countrys constitution. The congress takes place under the US threat of all-out war against North Korea, a formal ally of China. Xi has bent over backwards to accommodate Washington and the new Trump administration, including by imposing harsh trade sanctions on Pyongyang. However, the Chinese leadership is well aware that a war against North Korea also would be aimed against China, which the US regards as the key obstacle to its global hegemony. Xi has promoted the One-Belt, One-Road initiativea massive infrastructure project aimed at linking Europe and Asia via high-speed rail, road and sea, and implicitly sidelining the United States. The project is already exacerbating tensions with Washington, which under Trump is threatening to take trade war measures to undercut Chinas rising economic influence. The CCP congress will be pored over by mainstream analysts for clues as to the leadership line-up. Five of the seven positions on the top Politburo Standing Committee could be filled by new appointees, along with 11 of the wider Politburos 25 seats and about half the posts on the 205-member central committee. Whatever its exact composition, the new leadership will be confronted with the prospect of an imminent US war on its doorstep in North Korea, as well as a mounting social explosion internally as it proceeds with its pro-market agenda. Hurricane Irma had a devastating impact throughout the Southeast United States, but hit particularly hard in Florida, where it first made landfall. Wind speeds in the state reached up to 142 miles per hour and rainfall levels ranged from 6 to 16 inches. Storm surges reached up to eight feet in the northern part of the state, a record level. Fifteen million residents lost electricity, many for a week or more. Flooding damaged or destroyed thousands of residences and businesses. Millions of residents were unable to earn money in the aftermath of the storm because their workplaces were destroyed, or because they had to provide childcare when many of the states schools were closed due to damage. Throughout the state, hundreds of thousands of residents affected by Hurricane Irma have lined up at parks, convention centers and parking lots across the state over the course of the last week to receive vouchers for emergency food assistance. The events are all-day affairs, beginning in the morning and lasting into the night, with residents standing in line for eight hours or more to receive two months worth of Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly known as food stamps. In Broward County, on Sunday a planned giveaway had to be canceled after fights broke out and multiple residents fainted from standing in line in the sweltering heat. In Miami-Dade County on Saturday, police shut down the event after chaos broke out among the desperate applicants. They went in trampling over old ladies, people with kids. It was horrible, a local resident told the Miami Herald. Many other applicants also spoke to the media about their experiences trying to apply for benefits. Beverly Moore of North Lauderdale told the Sun Sentinel, I feel like Im in a third world country right now, not in America trying to get assistance. I mean, there are old people here who havent had water in hours. In Hialeah, according to another resident, everybody went crazy and ran in all directions, I even saw a lady in a wheelchair get trampled, but today everybody is polite and friendly. Another Miami resident, Enrique, told the Herald, How am I? Hungry. Tired. Sleepy, and thirsty, oh my god thirsty. Thats so many hours in the sun, so many hard hours, but my wife and I have an autistic son and two other children, but for a family with five people, I might get $1,500. It all adds up. Olivia Aviles of Coral Springs told CBS, We basically lost power, lost the food in our fridge, and then, you know, were just here now trying to recoup some of it. We lost like a week of work, so we are now trying to recoup some of it. Another resident, Nella Levy-Fogah, told CBS, Some cant even go back to workthe jobs are not there. They lost so much during the hurricane and they need help and theres nowhere else to get it. In Jacksonville, residents started lining up at 3 a.m. at a mall parking lot to apply for benefits, though the event did not start until 7 a.m., according to the Florida Times-Union. There was widespread confusion in the crowd, with many believing that actual food was being distributed. Many residents were also unaware that applications for the five days of the event were divided up according to the first letter of their last name, with only people with the last name beginning with A through D eligible to apply on the first day. Officials in many counties have been compelled to schedule an additional day to accommodate the overwhelming number of applicants. In comments made to News4Jax.com, Tihanie Mcvroom, a local resident who had lost power for six days after hurricane Irma, said, I lost everything that I had, but I had to stay strong for my family to do what I had to do. The Department of Children and Families has reported that as of Sunday more than 1.1 million residents have applied for assistance under the program. The program, known as Disaster SNAP, is only available to those who are not already receiving regular SNAP benefits. Potential recipients can only qualify for the program if they can prove that they suffered a loss of income or property due to the hurricane. If approved, recipients receive an EBT card worth up to $300 per person to spend on food. This sum is supposed to represent two months worth of food costs and expires after 90 days. On Monday, Spains Popular Party (PP) government rejected Catalan Premier Carles Puigdemonts call for a two-month period of negotiations with Madrid after the yes vote in the October 1 Catalan independence referendum. With Spanish armored forces and thousands of police preparing for action, Spain is on the brink of martial law and a military crackdown in Catalonia. After Puigdemont declared on October 10 that Catalonia had won the right to declare its independence, Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy set a deadline of October 16 for Puigdemont to clarify whether he had in fact declared Catalan independence. When Puigdemont did not provide a yes or no answer, apparently trying to avoid a confrontation, the PP escalated the conflict on Monday. Reiterating its threat to suspend Catalan self-government, it jailed Catalan nationalist politicians and denounced the October 1 referendum as a Russian-backed provocation. In a letter, Puigdemont stated: When on the 10th of October, due to requests from numerous international, Spanish and Catalan institutions and people, I proposed a sincere offer of dialogue, I did so not as a demonstration of weakness, but rather as an honest response to find a solution to the relationship between the Spanish state and Catalonia, which has been broken for many years. Calling for a two-month negotiation period, he said, The priority of my government is, with all our strength, to find a path for dialogue. Criticizing the brutal police violence exercised on the peaceful people on October 1, he asked Madrid to reverse the repression of the Catalan people and government. The PP government, which has given Puigdemont a second deadline of October 19 to say how he intends to obey the Spanish Constitution, reacted with a barrage of threats. In an unprecedented attack on democratic rights, Spanish courts preventively jailed Jordi Sanchez, the head of the Catalan National Assembly, and Jordi Cuixart, who leads Omnium Cultural. Both Catalan nationalist politicians are accused of sedition, supposedly for encouraging resistance to the Spanish police crackdown prior to the October 1 referendum. Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria mocked Puigdemont at a press conference, declaring: It was not difficult to say yes or no to whether he had declared independence. Rajoy personally repeated his threat to invoke Article 155 of the Spanish Constitution to suspend Catalan regional autonomy, declaring that Puigdemont will be the only one responsible for the invocation of the Constitution. Rajoy added, Prolonging this situation of uncertainty only favors those who seek to liquidate civic harmony and impose a radical and pauperizing project for Catalonia. Article 155 could be invoked in conjunction with Article 116 to declare a state of siege, suspend basic democratic rights and usher in military rule. Defense Minister Maria Dolores de Cospedal plans to visit the facilities of the Arapiles Regiment at Sant Climent de Sescebes near Girona, and Bruch, near Barcelona, tomorrow. Last week, El Pais identified these as armored forces that Madrid would mobilize if it launches military operations against the Catalan population. In another extraordinary and dangerous provocation, the PPs speaker in the European parliament, Esteban Pons, denounced Puigdemont as a tool of Russia. Asking his fellow European parliamentarians to not believe the national-populist propaganda, he promised to present next week proof that Russian networks supported Carles Puigdemont and the secessionist movement. Unsubstantiated accusations of Russian involvement in the Catalan crisis had previously been made in the US media, including Politico and the Washington Times, and had been echoed in El Pais. However, Madrid had until now explicitly contradicted these allegations in its official statements. Asked by Russia Today last week for a comment, Spanish Ambassador to Russia Ignacio Ibanez Rubio said: On the contrary, Spain endorses Russias official stance. From the very beginning, Russia has recognized that this is an internal affair of our country. He added that Spain and Russia enjoy great relations So we are very pleased with Russias stand on the crisis in Catalonia. Now, however, without providing any evidence against Moscow, the PP is carrying out a 180-degree turn in its position. The provocative charges Pons is making against Russia have uncertain but potentially explosive implications. If the PP truly believed that Moscow was allying with Catalan separatists to dismember its territory, it could cite this as an aggressive Russian action against Spain and invoke NATO provisions for common self defense to demand joint NATO military action against Russia. Above all, these charges intensify the accusation of treason leveled against Catalan nationalists by Spanish King Felipe VI in his October 3 address, as well as by Rajoy. It provides Spanish troops in Catalonia with a further pseudo-legal rationale for bloodshedas the PP government has threatened by comparing the fate of Puigdemont to that of 1930s Catalan regional leader Lluis Companys, who was shot by the Spanish fascist regime of Francisco Franco in 1940. Workers must be warned: there is real danger of a military crackdown, the likes of which Spain has not seen since the 1936-1939 Civil War and imposition of the Francoite dictatorship that held power until 1978. Washington and the European Union, which are working in coordination with Rajoy, would not intervene to stop such a political crime. Indeed, the unsubstantiated allegations of Pons against Russia have all the earmarks of a political operation to provide the US media a pretext to support a crackdown in Barcelona and a turn to military rule. The only force that can prevent mass repression is the working classmobilized independently of and in revolutionary opposition to the entire ruling establishment. While Madrids immediate target is Catalonia, the broader target is the entire Spanish and European working class, under conditions of an international breakdown of capitalism unprecedented since the 1930s. Class tensions are reaching explosive levels after a decade of deep austerity and economic crisis. With tens of millions of workers jobless, large majorities of youth in countries across Europe told the EUs Generation What poll this year that they would support a mass uprising against the existing order. Measures like Frances state of emergency and Spains turn toward military rule are part of a preemptive turn to authoritarian rule being carried out by the European bourgeoisie against the danger of a revolutionary mobilization of workers and youth across Europe. The responses of the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) and Podemos underscore that the plans of Rajoy and the EU for a crackdown and military rule face no opposition in the ruling elite. PSOE General Secretary Pedro Sanchez told El Diario that between the PSOE and the PP, the relationship is fluid and constant in our joint answer against the separatist challenge. The PSOE is increasingly converting itself into a political appendage of the PP, making even more explicit statements in support of military action against Catalonia than Rajoys party. The PSOE spokesman Oscar Puente declared, Mr. Puigdemonts non-reply is completely unacceptable With his attitude, we wonder if Mr. Puigdemont leaves another way out other than the implementation of [Article] 155. Puente added that Article 155 would be invoked in an agreed and negotiated way, apparently implying that the PSOE and PP are coordinating closely on its invocation. While Podemos criticized the PSOE-PP position on Puigdemonts statement today, it is continuing to signal that it will adapt itself to a crackdown. Podemos organization secretary Pablo Echenique said Puigdemont had made clear again that there had been no unilateral declaration of Catalan independence. He complained that between the PSOE and the PP a decision has been taken a priori to escalate conflict with Barcelona. Nevertheless, Echenique left open the possibility that the application of Article 155 and the holding of snap elections in Catalonia at gunpoint could resolve the crisis. Calling this outcome neither bad nor good, he said he hoped new elections could produce better negotiating partners than Rajoy and Puigdemont. The result of this past weekends Austrian election follows an international pattern. Despite the deepest crisis of world capitalism since the Great Depression of the 1930s and the growing danger of a new world war, far-right parties are gaining influence while the parties of the official left go from defeat to defeat. The rise of Jarosaw Kaczynski in Poland and Viktor Orban in Hungary; the leading role of the anti-immigrant UKIP in the Brexit referendum in Britain; Donald Trumps victory in the United States; the National Fronts second-place finish in the French presidential election; and the entry of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) into the German parliament are all part of this process. At the end of 2016, the traditional ruling parties and the media pundits in Europe hailed the narrow victory in the Austrian presidential election of Alexander Van der Bellen over Nobert Hofer, the candidate of the right-wing extremist Austrian Freedom Party (FPO), as proof that the rise of the far-right was receding. Instead, the FPO registered significant gains in Sundays general election, coming in second to the conservative Peoples Party (OVP). The neo-fascists are now poised to enter the government in coalition with the conservatives. Meanwhile, the establishment parties of the right and the nominal left have all adopted the anti-immigrant, chauvinist programme of the FPO. Sebastian Kurz of the OVP has led this turn from the traditional path of the Christian Democrats to the right-wing margin, as the Berlin Tagesspiegel put it. The positions of Kurz and the right-wing populist FPO differ only in detail, in the main, the newspaper added. Austrias Social Democrats, who finished third, are competing with the conservatives to win over the neo-fascists. Following Sundays poll, Federal Chancellor Christian Kern of the Social Democratic Party (SPO) renewed his partys offer of a coalition government with the FPO. What is the reason for the rise of far-right parties all across Europe? The answer is to be found less in their politics than in those of the supposed left. The SPO long since ceased to be a party of social reform. It is a bourgeois, pro-imperialist party, whose role is to defend the interests of Austrian capital against its international rivals and its own working class. As CEO of the Austrian rail system, Kern was a top business executive, with a salary of 700,000 euros, before becoming the leader of the SPO and assuming the office of chancellor last summer. The Social Democrats work closely with the trade union bureaucracy, which functions as an arm of the corporate elite, tasked with suppressing all working class resistance to attacks on jobs and wages and promoting economic nationalism to block European-wide and international working class solidarity. The SPOs trade union wing has led the drive within the party for collaboration with the neo-fascists. The Social Democrats (and the Democratic Party in the US) are orbited by a plethora of pseudo-left satellites, which, like the Greens, have their origin in the student protest movement of the 1960s and represent the interests of well-off middle-class layers. It is not that the mass of workers support racist and fascistic policies. On the contrary, there are many signs of political radicalization to the left, a growth of anti-capitalist sentiment and a revival of class struggle. In the US, 13 million people, mainly youth and workers, voted last year in the Democratic primary elections for a candidate they believed to be a socialist, Bernie Sanders, only to see this long-time functionary for the Democrats throw his support to the candidate of Wall Street and the CIA, Hillary Clinton. And in May, a majority of people between the ages of 18 and 35 polled by the Union of European Broadcasters said they would participate in a large-scale uprising against the status quo. Nine out of 10 young people in the survey said they agreed that banks and money rule the world and the same margin said the gap between the rich and the poor is widening. The electoral victories of the right wing are largely the result of the mass desertion of workers from the labor and social democratic parties that have for decades dissociated themselves from any opposition to capitalism and abandoned any orientation to the working class or concern with the issues working people confront. Instead, they have promoted the politics of racial and gender identity, which are used to enrich a thin, privileged elite among ethnic minorities and women, while the masses of workers of all races face unrelenting attacks on their living standards. The workers are well aware, moreover, that these parties are completely complicit in imposing the austerity policies demanded by the banks and corporations. The ability of far-right parties to obtain a broader hearing for anti-immigrant and racist policies is the result of the absence of any progressive outlet for social discontent within the political establishment. The far right is gaining strength by default, as the entire bourgeois political spectrumincluding the organizations of the pseudo-leftlurches furiously to the right. The indifference and hostility of the SPO, the unions and the pseudo-left to the social interests of the working class has created a political vacuum that is being filled by the far-right with its demagogic slogans. Agitation against refugees and Muslims dominated the entire Austrian election campaign. They are being scapegoated for every conceivable social problemunemployment, wage-cutting, the erosion of health carefor which no establishment party offers a progressive answer. Austria was held to be a model social democratic country until the 1980s. There were social gains in the fields of public housing, old-age provision, etc. But this came under increasing attack as Austrias banks and corporations strove to become competitive in the global marketplace at the expense of the working class. Capitalist restoration in Eastern Europe and the creation of a vast pool of cheap labour in low-tax locations ruled by ex-Stalinist bureaucrats turned capitalist oligarchs spurred on this offensive. Vienna is less than 100 kilometres from the borders with Hungary and Slovakia, where the average salary is just one-third of that prevailing in Austria. The federal states of Burgenland and Carinthia, two FPO strongholds, border Hungary and Slovenia. These social disparities have generated social tensions and anxieties, which intensified when, in the summer of 2015, tens of thousands of refugees came to Austria via the Balkan route. They were fleeing the wars waged by the US and its European allies that had destroyed large parts of the Middle East. At first, they were met with popular sympathy. But the conservatives and Social Democrats adopted the xenophobia of the FPO in an effort to channel social discontent in a reactionary direction. Millions of workers and youth are looking for a way to fight back and defend their social interests. What is necessary is the construction of an independent movement of the working class, which mobilises resistance to social attacks, war and the drive toward dictatorship on the basis of a socialist perspective. It is necessary to build a party that unconditionally defends the democratic rights of all workers, native-born and immigrant alike, and unites the working class across all national and ethnic divides. This party is the International Committee of the Fourth International and its national sections, the Socialist Equality Parties. The University of California, Berkeley issued an interim campus policy August 14 that authorizes the UC Berkeley Police Department (UCPD) to review all student events, determine whether or not they deem that these events require a police presence, and compel student organizations to pay the cost of the police presence that the police mandate. The policy is currently undergoing public review, but no one, not even the Berkeley campus paper, the Daily Cal, has reported on it, nor has any group organized a meeting on the topic. This may in part be an expression of the fact that it is now almost impossible to organize meetings on the Berkeley campus. At the end of October, the public review period on this anti-democratic measure will close, and the policy will become permanent at the beginning of January. The new policy is an attack on free speech that prevents student organizations from presenting their views on campus. The police on campus have effectively been given the power to censor organizations by charging them money to hold controversial political events on campus. All events must be submitted for approval by the administration eight weeks prior to their scheduled date, and groups must seek approval from the police six weeks in advance. It is impossible under such conditions for a student organization to respond to any current development. A request to hold a protest rally on Sproul Plaza in response to current developments, such as the repeal of DACA, a vital and long-standing tradition at Berkeley, would automatically be denied. According to the memorandum, events that involve over 200 people, or which the police deem worthy of scrutiny, will be treated as major events. The police thus become the first and last arbiter of campus speech. They are authorized to select which events to scrutinize and can charge for services rendered, running any impoverished student organization into the ground. Free speech will be for those the police deem safe, or those wealthy enough to afford it. If its event is deemed major by the police, the petitioning student group must submit its request directly to the police department in order to secure a room. The student group must then fill out a Police Services Request form, supplied by the UCPD, which legally obliges the student organization to cover all costs associated with policing the event. To secure a room on campus, student organizations must provide a payment option to the UCPD. One of the options is to submit to the police a checknecessarily blank because the police have not yet informed the group what costs they will incur. There is no assurance given to the student organization that costs, once agreed upon, will not change. A request for clarification on whether costs can change after the initial agreement is reached has not received a response. The International Youth and Students for Social Equality has already been impacted by this anti-democratic process. In late September the Berkeley IYSSE applied for David North, the chairperson of the International Editorial Board of the WSWS and a leading expert on the Russian Revolution, to deliver a lecture at UC Berkeley in late October on the centenary of the Russian Revolution. The request was initially denied without any reason being given. On October 6, the IYSSE was informed that its request required processing by the UCPD because it had indicated that David North would be the events speaker. The event, in other words, was being singled out for its political content. The IYSSE immediately submitted a request for the event to the UCPD and included a list of questions seeking clarification on the process. The IYSSE asked if its event had been deemed a major event, and who had reached such a decision and on what grounds. The club inquired how students, with limited funds, were supposed to hand over a blank check to the police department and a signature guaranteeing that the club would pay for all expenses, without any knowledge of what those expenses might prove to be. At the time of writing, the UCPD has not responded to the request and questions of the IYSSE. The lengthy turnaround involved in this processthe request was initially submitted in late Septembereffectively prevents student groups from organizing and advertising their events. These measures are the direct result of the pressure tactics of the leaders of the Antifa movement. In the spring semester thousands of students gathered to protest the appearance of right-wing provocateur, Milo Yiannopoulos, at UC Berkeley. Most assembled to state their political disagreement with his views. Antifa activists, however, claimed that they needed to physically shut down his event to prevent fascism from growing on campus and to pressure the University administration to ban the event. Mark Bray, in his book Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook, sympathetically describes Antifas vandalism as an appeal to the campus police to ban Yiannopoulos: In the days leading up to the event, students had met with the chancellor, written op-eds, amassed a petitionall to no avail. On the night of Yiannopouloss speech, shortly before it was scheduled to begin, black-clad anti-fascists arrived at the larger ongoing demonstration and started to pull down police barricades, launch fireworks, smash windows, and spray-paint graffiti, causing what was later estimated to be $100,000 worth of damage. And what weeks of advocacy, argumentation, and public dialogue could not accomplish was instead achieved in about fifteen minutes, as the police quickly announced the cancellation of the event, citing security concerns. Antifa bases its politics on appealing, by violent means if necessary, to the administrative officials to carry out political censorship on campus. The methods of Antifa provide the University administration with a pretext for which it has long sought to harass and repress left-wing organizations. Last year a student course titled Palestine: a settler colonial analysis, was suspended on spurious procedural grounds before the administration admitted that it halted the class because it believed it was political indoctrination. Earlier in 2016, the UC Regents proposed a motion that would treat all opposition to Zionism as anti-Semitism, until protests made the regents change the text of the resolution slightly. President Donald Trumps appearance at the ultra-right Values Voter Summit on Friday was a further step in his effort to create a fascistic movement outside existing political structures, directed against both the Republican and Democratic establishments. It was Trumps third appearance at the annual Washington assembly of Christian fundamentalist extremists, hosted by Tony Perkins and his Family Research Council. In 2015 and 2016, Trump appeared as a candidate for the Republican nomination and then as the nominee. In 2017, he became the first sitting president to address the group, whose views are so extreme that even George W. Bush stayed away and sent surrogates. Trump does not read the Bible (or any other book) and his three marriages and penchant for vulgar boasting of his sexual exploits would under other circumstances make him persona non grata to the censorious moralizers of the Family Research Council and its co-thinkers. He would be an incongruous, even ludicrous, figure at a convention of Christian fundamentalists if his purpose were not so reactionary and dangerous. White House speechwriters gave him prepared remarks that flattered the ultra-right Christian audience and sought to mobilize them behind a thoroughly secular agenda of tax cuts for the wealthy, elimination of regulations on business, destruction of social benefits, and imperialist war. Trump spat on the genuine traditions of freedom of religionand from religionthat are bound up with the liberating example of the American Revolution, in favor of a completely bogus presentation of the Founding Fathers as religious zealots, moral prudes and national chauvinists. America is a nation of believers, he declared, although a recent Pew survey found that atheists and the non-religious are the fastest growing section of the population, particularly among the younger generation. The president added later, This is Americas heritage, a country that never forgets that we are allall, every one of usmade by the same God in Heaven. Actually, the First Amendment to the US Constitution bars the establishment of any religion, making the government officially neutral on the question of the existence of a creator, let alone the specific creation myths postulated by the various strains of Christianity. Trump paid tribute to religious liberty, which is interpreted by the fundamentalists not as freedom to worship as one chooses, but as freedom to impose ones religious precepts on everyone else in the form of discrimination against gays, lesbians and others whose sexual orientation or family structure is deemed in violation of Biblical injunctions. Those in attendance at the gathering treat restrictions on such forms of discrimination as attacks on their religious faith. The heart of Trumps speech was to boast that his administration was turning back the clock on the social progress made since the 1950sgreater sexual freedom, equal rights for women, the erosion of bigotry based on race, ethnicity, language or sexual orientation. The American Founders invoked our Creator four times in the Declaration of Independencefour times, he said. How times have changed. But you know what, now theyre changing back again. Just remember that. The audience gave him a standing ovation. Trump boasted of keeping his election campaign promises to the fundamentalist groups, mainly through the nomination of Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch to replace the arch-reactionary Justice Antonin Scalia, as well as executive orders undermining abortion rights and access to contraception for women. He also praised himself for promoting an atmosphere of public religiosity through such trivialities as saying Merry Christmas instead of Happy Holidays. He described such actions as stopping cold the attacks on Judeo-Christian values, although the Judeo part is a sham. Trump has close associations with anti-Semites like his former chief political counselor, Stephen Bannon, now returned to his position as executive chairman of Breitbart News. Trump was silent about his own encouragement of the white supremacists who rioted in Charlottesville, Virginia two months ago, where they mobilized in defense of Confederate war monuments. After the neo-Nazis marched with torches chanting Jews will not replace us, and killed an anti-fascist protester, Trump declared that there were many fine people in the ranks of the racists. On Saturday, Bannon followed Trump to the speakers podium at the Values Voter Summit, where his contribution to Christian values was a thinly veiled call for the removalby any means necessaryof Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. He described McConnell as the Julius Caesar of Capitol Hill, and said the Senate Republicans were in turmoil because Theyre just looking to find out who is going to be Brutus to your Julius Caesar. A public speaker who made such a comparison in relation to President Trump would be visited by the Secret Service and probably locked up. Evidently suggesting that the Senate majority leader should be done in is not taken quite so seriously. Nor did the good Christians at the Values Voter Summit object to the suggestion, which was hardly of the turn the other cheek persuasion. Bannon also denounced another Republican senator, Bob Corker of Tennessee, for suggesting that Trump is unfit for office and could lead the country into World War III. Bob Corker has trashed the commander in chief of our armed forces while we have young men and women in harms way, right? Bannon declared, claiming that this was the first time in the history of our republic that a senator has mocked and ridiculed a commander in chief when we have kids in the field. The former White House political adviser is apparently ignorant of the public attacks on Truman, Johnson, Nixon, George W. Bush and Obama, limiting this to modern history. These presidents were all criticized and denounced, deservedly so, while directing foreign military interventions. Bannon suggested that any Republican senator who did not publicly condemn Corkers comments could face a primary challenge. Right now its a season of war against the GOP establishment, he told the fundamentalist conference. There is an apparent division of labor between Trump and his former chief political aide, who left the White House less than two months ago. Bannon is openly corralling racist, neo-fascist and Christian fundamentalist groups behind a program of extreme nationalism and militarism, threatening to run candidates against mainstream Republican right-wingers, even if that damages the partys prospects for maintaining control of Congress in the 2018 elections. While Bannon openly targets McConnell, Trump combines occasional vilification, usually by Twitter, with public flattery, as on Monday after a closed-door luncheon meeting, when the two appeared side-by-side on the steps of the White House. Janata Dal (United)'s secretary KC Tyagi clarified the party's stance by saying that the comments made by Pavan Verma questioning the EC were in his personal capacity and the party had nothing to do with it. By Anand Patel: When Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Patna recently, NDA's new ally Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar went all out to praise his leadership. But not everyone in Kumar's Janata Dal (United) agrees with him. Spokesperson and general secretary Pavan Varma tweeted asking the Election Commission about the delay in announcing Gujarat election dates. "We need credible answers", the tweet read. EC must not only be impartial but seen to be so. Why have the dates for Gujarat elections not been announced? We need credible answers.- Pavan K. Varma (@PavanK_Varma) October 16, 2017 advertisement Clarifying the party's stance, secretary KC Tyagi said that the comments made by Pavan Verma were in his personal capacity and the party had nothing to do with it. The u-turn came within hours of Varma's tweet. "We have full faith in the impartial functioning of the Election Commission, the constitutional body, Shri Varma was not authorised to make such comment and the expressed views are in his personal capacity and it has nothing to do with party's official line," read the statement. JD(U) was left red faced after Varma tweeted on Monday morning expressing dissatisfaction over Election Commission's decision to delay the announcement of assembly polls last week. A barrage of tweets followed questioning relations between the two new allies. Many expressed surprise over Varma's comment while some even went on to the extent of asking him to clarify if his account was hacked. --- ENDS --- KENNER, La. (AP) - Authorities have suspended the search Monday for a Texas man who disappeared when an oil and gas platform exploded on a lake near New Orleans. Seven people were injured in the Sunday night blast and fire, including three who were in critical condition, authorities said. The explosion happened on an oil and gas transfer facility in Lake Pontchartrain. The platform was on waters just north of the suburban city of Kenner in Jefferson Parish. The parish sheriff, Joe Lopinto, identified the missing man as Timothy Morrison, 44, of Katy, Texas, a subcontractor on the structure. "The decision to suspend a search is never an easy one," said Cmdr. Zac Ford. "We send our thoughts and prayers to the Morrison family and all those affected by this incident." The Coast Guard reported that a fire aboard the platform was out by midday and that aerial surveys showed no signs of pollution in the water or onshore. A Coast Guard helicopter, a Jefferson Parish helicopter, Coast Guard vessels and boats from local agencies, continued looking for Morrison. Lopinto told reporters searching the platform itself was difficult. "There is a lot of structural damage to the rig. We have a lot of metal, twisted metal that is covering certain areas and we're going to have to go back out there with different equipment when the weather permits," Lopinto said. High winds made boarding the damaged structure difficult, he said. The Clovelly Oil Co. platform exploded while maintenance was being done on the structure, sending a fireball high into the night sky, authorities and company officials said. The Kenner government Facebook page said authorities on the scene reported that cleaning chemicals had ignited on the structure, but the company said the cause of the blast was unknown. Lopinto stressed that the cause remained under investigation. Lopinto said that "cleaning" work on the structure could pertain to the processing of gas. Residents along the shores of the lake said their homes shook about 7:15 p.m. Some reported that the air smelled of burning rubber. "My house actually shook," Andrew Love, 32, told NOLA.com/The Times Picayune . "At first I thought it was a sonic boom or something, I had no idea what was happening." Lopinto said there were no reports of structural damage to any homes. Five of the injured were hospitalized with "blast-type injuries and burns," said Mike Guillot, director of East Jefferson Emergency Medical Services. Two of the three people in critical condition were in a burn unit, Guilot said. A statement from Clovelly Oil said three oil wells near the platform were shut in at the time of the explosion and its one gas well was flowing, but was successfully shut-in shortly after the explosion. Clovelly does not know if any oil was released into the lake. The platform is a storage and accumulation point for oil and gas from a number of wells, company spokesman Tim O'Leary said. "It's basically an underwater storage tank. It takes oil and gas" from wells, he said. Once the tank is filled, the oil or gas is pumped into a barge and moved. He said the four wells that feed the platform were drilled in the 1970s and are all in the lake, a brackish tidal basin that is fed both by the Gulf of Mexico and by fresh water from rivers and streams in 16 Louisiana parishes and four Mississippi counties. Its water covers 630 square miles (1630 square kilometers) but it's generally only about 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters) deep. It's 40 miles (64 kilometers) long and 25 miles (40 kilometers) wide. The U.S. Geological Service describes it as one of America's largest estuaries and the waters support oysters, crabs and saltwater fish. There is no active drilling on the lake, according to Jean Kelly of the state environmental department. The platform is located in Jefferson Parish. Authorities noted that the parish drinking water is safe because it is pulled from the Mississippi River. MACON, Ga. (WTXL)- Five Valdosta men entered guilty pleas for conspiring to steal and possess stolen mail and items, including checks, for several months in 2016, a federal prosecutor said. The five are Kedrick Antwan Williams, 31, Zerrick Devon Tompkins, 31, Jerry Lewis Rawls Jr., 44, Willie James Smith, 64, and Gregory Willie Harris, 46. They pleaded guilty on October 12. The men removed the checks, altered payees and amounts of the checks, and cashed or deposited the checks and kept the money, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. They did so from July 24 to Dec. 8, 2016. The defendants admitted to the theft of betwen $40,000 and $95,000 worth of checks written on the accounts of a number of south Georgia people and businesses. The five agreed to pay restitution of more than $14,000 to five banks and one business, based on checks that were negotiated. U.S. Attorney G. F. Peterman said that numerous people and businesses were victims of the organized check cashing ring. "It is a shame that with all the ingenuity and effort these criminals invested in this illegal scheme, they did not choose to earn an honest dollar instead, which they were clearly smart and resourceful enough to have done," the prosecutor said. MOBILE USERS: Download our WTXL news app on your Apple and Android devices for the latest from South Georgia and North Florida. Also, download our WTXL Weather Now app for Apple and Android devices to get the latest local weather wherever you go. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional local news and hourly updates. Copyright 2017 WTXL via Raycom News Network. All rights reserved. By PTI: Bhopal, Oct 17 (PTI) The Madhya Pradesh government has appointed Naresh Kumar Gupta as the Lokayukta (Ombudsman) of the state, a top official said. The post of Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta had been lying vacant since June 2016 after the retirement of PP Naolekar, former Justice of Supreme Court. Gupta, a retired judge of Madhya Pradesh High Court, was appointed as Lokayukta yesterday, the official said. advertisement UC Maheshwari, former judge of MP High Court, who is six years senior to Gupta, was looking after the work of Lokayukta since June last year. Maheshwari was administered the oath of office as Madhya Pradesh Deputy Lokayukta by the former Lokayukta P P Naolekar on June 28, 2016. "Yes, Justice Gupta is six years junior to me," Maheshwari told PTI over phone today. "I became MP High Court Judge in 2004 and he (Gupta) became judge in the year 2010," Maheshwari added. Asked whether he plans to resign in the wake of the developments, Maheshwari said, "I will decide what to do later." However, he didnt elaborate his next course of action. Meanwhile, leader of opposition in the state assembly Ajay Singh said seniority has been given a toss in the appointment of Ombudsman. He said traditionally, seniority was given pre-eminence in appointments in the state. "I have also written a letter to Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in this regard," Singh said. Madhya Pradesh Cooperative Minister Vishwas Sarang said it is unfortunate that politics is being played over a constitutional post. "Congress is making out an issue for no rhyme or reason. This is not good for state politics," he added. PTI PTI LAL MAS RMT BAS --- ENDS --- JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - A Marianna man awakened behind bars Tuesday after deputies say they found meth and marijuana in his car. Deputies with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office say when they pulled over Derek Benefield, 27, on Monday they smelled marijuana coming from the car. Searching the car, they found he was hiding meth under the driver's seat along with a marijuana shake under the car's floor board. Benefield is facing three charges: possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana less than 20 grams and possession of Methamphetamine. MOBILE USERS: Download our WTXL news app on your Apple and Android devices for the latest from South Georgia and North Florida. Also, download our WTXL Weather Now app for Apple and Android devices to get the latest local weather wherever you go. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional local news and hourly updates. Copyright 2017 WTXL via Raycom News Network. All rights reserved. CRAWFORDVILLE, Fla. (WTXL) - A Wakulla County man is behind bars after deputies say he snuck into a fast food restaurant and stole money while employees were on a break. Deputies say they were called to the Sonic in Crawfordville on Monday. Employees told the deputies that a man - later identified as Marcellus Desmond Calloway, 27 - stole that money and then ran off. Authorities later found him and arrested him on charges of burglary and theft. MOBILE USERS: Download our WTXL news app on your Apple and Android devices for the latest from South Georgia and North Florida. Also, download our WTXL Weather Now app for Apple and Android devices to get the latest local weather wherever you go. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional local news and hourly updates. Copyright 2017 WTXL via Raycom News Network. All rights reserved. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - The Tallahassee woman charged with accessory after the fact in the murder of Hoyt Birge goes before a judge and a grand jury today. Paige Vowell, arrested in May, is accused of cleaning up the crime scene. Vowell was released on $25,000 bond. But now prosecutors want to see her charges upgraded after they say she contacted Peter Tournay, another victim in the crime that occurred when Birge, 32, was killed. Additionally, Vowell failed to show up for court in Wakulla County. A judge re-instated her bond. Vowell is among eight people charged in connection to Birge's death. He was killed during a fight over a drug deal and robbery. MOBILE USERS: Download our WTXL news app on your Apple and Android devices for the latest from South Georgia and North Florida. Also, download our WTXL Weather Now app for Apple and Android devices to get the latest local weather wherever you go. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional local news and hourly updates. Copyright 2017 WTXL via Raycom News Network. All rights reserved. Chandigarh police head constable Lal Chand was roped in specially by Gurmeet Ram Rahim's allies to ensure that the plan to help the godman escape was a success. By Manjeet Sehgal: The gang of Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh - the self-acclaimed godman convicted for rape - took care of his escape plan and intercepted police's radio signals so that they could escape being caught, police sources told India Today on Tuesday. It has been learnt that the Dera gang had especially roped in Chandigarh Police head constable Lal Chand to ensure that the escape plan was a success. It was easy to radicalise Lalchand as he was a staunch Dera supporter. He was given two major responsibilities, firstly to tune Dera's wireless sets into the police's radio frequency to intercept messages and secondly to use his credentials and intelligence to free Gurmeet Ram Rahim from police custody. It was easy for Lal Chand to enter the high security zone as he himself was a cop and nobody suspected him. advertisement Police sources said that Lal Chand had helped Gurmeet Ram Rahim's commandos to tune their wireless sets into Haryana Police's radio frequencies (usually 76 MHz to 86 MHz, something not allowed for private organisations). The commandos, sitting in a jammer vehicle, were allegedly intercepting all wireless messages that were being exchanged among three Haryana Police wireless stations. During the investigation, Panchkula police had also recovered a wireless set from the possession of the Dera goons. What also came to light was that the Dera gang had set up a state-of-the-art control room in Panchkula and was using wireless radio equipment. It must be mentioned that any attempt to enter the frequency used by the police is an offence under the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933. Police during the investigation had discovered that Lal Chand had stationed himself outside the CBI special court in Panchkula on August 25 without having been officially asked to be there. He was arrested from Chandigarh on Monday. Lal Chand is believed to have told the Panchkula police that he had made three attempts to free Gurmeet Ram Rahim from Haryana Police custody. In fact, Lal Chand, by using his credentials, had managed to enter into a high-security zone that was guarded by a several files of police officers and paramilitary personnel. As per plan A, conceptualised by the Dera gang including Lal Chand, Gurmeet Ram Rahim had to enter a bullet-proof vehicle owned by Dera Sacha Sauda. As soon as Gurmeet Ram Rahim came out of the CBI special court, his commandos and Lal Chand guided him into the bullet-proof vehicle. However, the Haryana cops escorting Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh did not allow him to board the Dera vehicle. According to the plan, police sources say the bullet-proof vehicle may have taken Ram Rahim to Chandigarh first. Later, there was a plan to hide him somewhere in Himachal Pradesh. After failing to implement plan A, Lal Chand immediately switched to Plan B and asked Ram Rahim's commandos to sit in the police vehicle in which the convicted godman was being taken to a local helipad. As per this plan, the commandos had to whisk away Ram Rahim from the vehicle at gunpoint. Interestingly , Plan B also failed as the commandos were not allowed by the police to enter the vehicle. advertisement Having failed to implement two plans, Lal Chand made a last-ditch bid to free Ram Rahim by following him in a bullet-proof car up to the Western Command from where he was to be flown to Sunaria Jail in Rohtak. He even tried to drive the vehicle close to the police SUV carrying Gurmeet Singh but failed and finally dropped the idea. Top sources told India Today that the police had scanned the CCTV footage from cameras installed in Sector 23 in particular and found the Dera gang doing a reccee of the area before the CBI special court verdict. It was also found during the investigation that Chandigarh cop Lal Chand had stationed himself outside the CBI special court complex in Panchkula without any official order. Lal Chand, who was posted in the Intelligence wing of Chandigarh police, was on Tuesday produced in the court which remanded him to two-day police custody. During this two-daya custody, the police will be keen to question Lal Chand about Honeypreet's role in the August 25 violence, apart from finding out about the person who was supervising the violence conspiracy. advertisement Police sources said Honeypreet Insan, who held the number two position in the Dera Sacha Sauda, was the brain behind the August 25 violence. She had also allegedly chaired a meeting on August 17 in Sirsa in which a blueprint for the August 25 violence was allegedly prepared. Police sources told India Today that the Dera gang including Honeypreet Insan and others had toured to Panchkula to take stock of the situation and to implement the plan to free Gurmeet Ram Rahim from police custody. Dera gang had also planned to help Ram Rahim flee to a foreign country. The details of this secret plan, according to the police, are in Honeypreet's diary and laptop which are still missing. --- ENDS --- Is there any connection between a jungle of seemingly discarded bikes crowding a suburban subway exit, and the smell of money in the heart of the financial market? Voters will weigh in on whether pot businesses should be allowed in Yakima County The review board of Lahore High Court scrutinising Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed and four other JuD members' detention plea today suggested they remain under house-arrest for some more time. By India Today Web Desk: Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed and four other members of his organisation were presented today before Lahore High Court, which is reviewing their detention following Pakistan government's withdrawal of terrorism charges against them. The review board has suggested they remain in detention for some more time. It is expected that they will be presented before the court again in two days. The JuD chief and his four aides were placed under house arrest in January under the Anti-Terrorism Act. advertisement On Sunday, Pakistani authorities withdrew terrorism charges against Saeed and his group, paving way for the possible release of the UN, the US and India-designated terrorist for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The JuD has already been declared a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014. The JuD chief carries a reward of USD 10 million announced by the US for his role in terror activities. Last week, the Lahore High Court had warned that it would end Saeed's house arrest if the Pakistani government doesn't submit evidence against him, prompting a strong reaction from India. On Monday, India said the withdrawal of terror charges against the Mumbai attacks mastermind reflects the lack of will on the part of Pakistan to fulfil its international obligation to take effective action against proscribed terrorists. "It is surprising that instead of prosecuting him for heading and directing a terrorist organisation, Pakistan is simply putting him in a house arrest for maintenance of public law and order... Such duplicitous actions need condemnation from all quarters," a government source told PTI. Saeed is accused by India of masterminding the Mumbai terror attack of November 2008 which left 166 Indians and foreigners dead. New Delhi has repeatedly urged Islamabad to punish him for the massacre. --- ENDS --- WASHINGTON - US Senator Bob Corker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, urged President Donald Trump's administration on Monday to work closely with European allies as it develops its new Iran policy. "This is something that can only work if the administration exercises tremendous diplomacy with our European allies," Corker told reporters as the Senate returned to the Capitol for the first time since Trump announced his Iran policy. Trump defied both allies and adversaries on Friday by refusing to certify that Iran is complying with an international agreement on its nuclear program, and threatened that he might ultimately terminate the accord. Corker is leading an effort in Congress to write legislation setting new conditions for the US role in the pact, such as automatically reimposing sanctions if Iran is deemed to be within one year of developing a nuclear weapon. Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan said today that he has asked all the scientists in the country to invent zero-pollution crackers. By Siddharatha Tiwari: Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan said today that he has asked all the scientists in the country to invent zero-pollution crackers. Talking exclusively to India Today, the minister said he has asked the scientists to form a core group. This group would be tasked with inventing crackers that do not cause any pollution. "I have asked the scientists to invent zero-pollution crackers so that traders are happy and people are also not inconvenienced", Vardhan said. advertisement Asked about the role the weather will play in reducing air pollution this Diwali, the minister said it would be too early to say anything regarding that. "We are assessing the role of weather. Anything can be said only after Diwali", he said. Vardhan evaded questions when asked whether some traders were stealthily selling firecrackers. The question was asked in the context of three people getting arrested today for selling firecrackers. According to reports, two Delhi police personnel have also been suspended for negligence. In Mangolpuri, a vigilance unit found a shopkeeper selling crackers. While he was arrested, two policemen were suspended for negligence. A departmental inquiry has also been ordered into the incident. In another incident in Gurugram, two people were arrested for selling firecrackers in Sector 9A. Apart from that, a shop stealthily selling firecrackers in Sector 10 was sealed. The police recovered 39 cartons packed with firecrackers for sale. The crackdown comes following the ban imposed on the sale of firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) till November 1 with a view to check pollution during Diwali. Also Watch : Is Diwali all about firecrackers for the common man and woman? --- ENDS --- El Al's new Dreamliner plane was grounded on Monday night before its scheduled flight from London to Tel Aviv after a crack was found in one of the passenger's windows. The plane apparently flew to London with the crack in the window. The plane remains grounded in the British capital as the airline is looking for replacement parts to fix the window. Israels Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh responded Monday evening to attacks leveled against him by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, insisting that the so-called tsunami of leaks surfacing about the ongoing corruption investigations against him have not been emanating from the police. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The leak is not from the police. I have full confidence in the way in which the sensitive investigations are being handled in the Israel Police, Alsheikh stated during a meeting of senior police officers. On Saturday night, Netanyahu went on the offensive against Alsheikh directly, venting frustration over the way in which the probes were being handled and accusing the police of being responsible for "a tsunami of leaks", calling them "baseless attacks." PM Netanyahu with Roni Alsheikh (Photo: Motti Kimchi) "When Police Commissioner Alsheikh started his term, he made two important decisions: that there would be no more leaks from police investigations, and that the police will not make recommendations (on indictment) anymore," Netanyahu said, expressing his belief that he had not made good on the promise. Addressing the charges, Alsheikh categorically denied any police involvement in the leaks. I have no doubt that the leaks are not coming from the police. We do everything in order to preserve the purity of the investigations and remain with clean hands, he said. We will do our work without favoritism and I will lend support to anyone doing their work in the field. Netanyahu and Alsheikh (Photo: Gil Yohanan) Gainsaying Netanyahus claims, Alsheikh doubled down on his belief that the police could be exonerated from any wrongdoing in the investigations handling, citing rigorous tests police are required to undergo to ensure their trust. There is no organization that deals with law enforcement that has done what the Israel Police does on the issue of plugging leaks. In the police a computerized test is conducted to examine reliability. Which other organization checks itself like that? Alsheikh asked his listeners. I am proud to stand in this organization, as the head of this organization, that does sacred work and in my opinion does its work in a professional, ethical and impartial manner, without any blemishes. I stand behind every word I have said, he continued. When the day comes I will also be willing to address the details and clarify things for anyone who asks. At the moment though I think its not right ... I wish for us all to continue to do this sacred work. It isnt always pleasant, it isnt always popular, but that is the meaning of the police. It deals with the exposed nerves of Israeli society. That is its job. Yair Lapid (Photo: Motti Kimchi) According to a Channel 10 report, Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who was in Washington when Netanyahu made his remarks, called Alsheikh to express his solidarity with him. I am standing by you. I give you my full support, Mandelblit reportedly told him. The state prosecutor also apparently called Alsheikh to offer his unequivocal support, adding that every head of a law-enforcement body is behind you. Leader of the Yesh Atid party Yair Lapid also joined the fray on Monday night when he launched into Netanyahu for his complaints, particularly those regarding the investigation into the submarines affair (also known as Case 3000)in which he is currently not a suspect. The Netanyahu government doesnt even pretend to do the right or good thing, Lapid scathed during a meeting that took place at the Tel Aviv Convention Center. Yair Lapid and PM Netanyahu (Photo: Motti Kimchi and Gil Yohanan) Its only goal is to stay in power, to stay in the chair. Because its easier to cope with the investigations in the Prime Ministers Residence. Politics, he continued, has become the number one problem in the State of Israel. The corruption starts there, the inefficiency starts there. Interest groups sit on the faucet. Whoever is closest to the plate receives more. Bribery, coalition funds, disgusting incitement. They incite us against one another. The political system is sick. Turning to Case 3000, Lapid listed the numerous positions of individuals involved in the case, all of whom are Netanyahus past and present closest associates. The prime ministers closest circle is corrupt. His lawyers, his former chief of staff, his closest aide, his close family associates. Every single one takes a piece of the cake when its dark and Netanyahu, instead of fighting it, threatens those who try and safeguard the law, Lapid lamented. Regarding Netanyahu's attacks on the police, Lapid was equally forthright in his criticism. To threaten whoever investigates you is a pattern of criminal behavior. The prime minister needs to threaten Hezbollah and Hamas, not the guardians of the innocent whom he himself appointed, he said. You know that I urge respect for Netanyahu, sometimes too much maybe...but he has lost the brakes. In a normal state the prime minister does not threaten the police commissioner. Where did the paranoid claim come from that the people he himself appointed are going after him? Think about who he is threatening. A police officer drew his handgun and threatened ultra-Orthodox protesters during demonstrations against Haredi IDF draft on Monday night. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter A video of the incident shows the officer drawing the weapon and then asking: "Anyone wants to get a bullet?" Several dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters rioted on the corner of Sarei Israel Boulevard and Yaffo Street in Jerusalem late Monday, briefly blocking the light rail's path. Some hurled abuse at the police officers, calling them "Nazis." Protests against Haredi draft (: , , . '' '') X Police arrested eight protesters and dispersed the crowds, reopening the street. According to the Israel Police, an initial investigation found that the police officer, who was driving in the Bar Ilan area, came upon a violent group of protesters. "They crowded around him, threw stones and other objects at the police car and blocked its path, all the while advancing on him in a threatening manner, rocking the car and hurling abuse at him. At a certain point, the officer felt threatened and tried to distance them from the scene," a police statement said. The police officer (Photo: Shlomi Cohen) Other demonstrations were held in Beit Shemesh, where several dozens of Haredim blocked Nehar HaYarden Street, and in Bnei Brak, where ultra-Orthodox protesters briefly blocked Rabbi Akiva Street. Some of the protesters assaulted police officers on the scene, and four of them were arrested and taken for questioning. The police officer (Photo: Shlomi Cohen) The demonstrations were organized by "The Committee to Save the World of Torah" following the arrest of two yeshiva students from the Jerusalem Faction, who were discovered to be army deserters in a routine police check. In addition, the Haredim are coming out against a sentence given to two draft dodgers of 20 days in military prison. Haredi protest in Jerusalem According to a call to arms issued by the committee, "The committee's leaders visited the home of the head of the yeshiva, Rabbi Shmuel Auerbach, may he live a good long life, who ordered them to make noise over the arrest of the delightful young men who have been arrested for studying the Torah." Haredi protest in Bnei Brak (Photo: The Bnei Brakim) Another group that works to oppose Haredi draft to the IDF said, "The entire Haredi public has grown tired of the hopeless attempts to turn its sons into soldiers and the attempts to disrupt the Haredi lifestyle over interests foreign to the sector. The young Haredi men's place is not in the IDF, nor in any other military, and it is embarrassing to see how the authorities and the elected officials of the State of Israel fail time and again to understand this. The fight against the draft is an existential war for the Haredi public." This isn't the first instance of police brutality at a Haredi protest. Last month, one officer was caught on camera shoving one protester to the ground. Other officers were caught on camera kicking protesters, pulling them forcefully, strangling them, stepping over them and dragging them violently. A 16-year-old boy was moderately hurt in a protest, suffering a head injury and internal bleeding, while a 17-year-old boy was lightly hurt. Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu told his Israeli counterpart Avigdor Lieberman on Monday that Russia would soon finish its operation in Syria, according to Russian news agency Interfax. "The operation in Syria is drawing to a close, but there are some issues that require urgent attention, and discussions that need to be had regarding the possible developments of the situation in Syria," Shoygu said during his meeting with Lieberman in Israel. "Other than the military and military-technological cooperation between Russia and Israel, the main issue for us is the fight against terrorism and the situation in the region," he added. Israeli sorties bombed targets in the Sinai Peninsula Sunday evening in retaliation for two rockets launched at Israel from the Egyptian territory hours earlier, according to Tuesday report in the London-based newspaper Al-Araby Al-Jadeed. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter One of the rockets exploded in open space in the Eshkol Regional Council near Gaza and was located following the IDF's searches of the area. No casualties were reported in the attack for which ISIS took responsibility. Footage allegedly showing rockets launched from Sinai X The report, which has not been verified, quotes tribal factions from the area claiming that Israeli jets were seen flying in the skies shortly after the launches. A video filmed in the Gaza region which has recently surfaced purports to show the rockets being launched. Rocket located in Israel (Photo: Eshkol Regional Council spokesperson) According to the report, Israeli jets appeared only once the Egyptian air force completed its own strikes in the areas of Rafah and Sheikh Zuweid in northern Sinai, as President Abdel Fattah al-Sisis military seeks to expunge terrorists from the peninsula. Despite taking responsibility for the rocket launches, ISIS made no mention on its official news agency, Amaq of an Israeli retaliatory assault. After stating his opposition to the evacuation of settlements drew criticism from his own party, Labor Chairman Avi Gabbay sought to clarify his controversial comments, indicating to Ynet on Tuesday he was only referring to the main settlement blocs in the West Bank. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter "We have to stop construction outside the main blocs, and we need to create a situation in which this problem doesn't increase in size," Gabbay said. In comments that sparked outrage among Labor Party members, Gabbay told Channel 2 News on Monday: "If we sign a peace agreement, why should we evacuate?" Labor leader Avi Gabbay (Photo: Hagay Dekel) He further elaborated, saying, "I think the dynamics or terminology we have become accustomed to here, where 'if you make peaceyou evacuate,' are not necessarily true." To Ynet, the Labor leader clarified, "I think we should aspire to reach an agreement with the Palestinians based on the principle of separating from the Palestinians, and based on the two states to two peoples principle. This means: We're keeping the main settlement blocs, with 420,000 settlers, we get a demilitarized country alongside us, and we get to maintain our security in the proper manner." He argued that within the framework of a peace agreement, "we can find creative solutions for the settlers who live outside the blocs as well." Gabbay asserted his positions are well known, "The Labor Party members elected me after they heard and read everything I've been saying. I've been saying this throughout the campaign. These are our worldviews. The idea is to reach a diplomatic solution, something (Prime Minister Netanyahu's) Likud Party doesn't believe in." Insisting that "a discourse based on Right and Left is not relevant," he added, "Life is too complex to look for where each of us is on the political spectrum." Labor MK Itzik Shmuli rejected Gabbay's explanations, saying, "Gabbay's comments have no connection to reality. He presents positions that are not in line with those of the Labor Party." EL-ARISH - In a brazen attack, about a dozen Islamic militants robbed a local bank and traded fire with security forces guarding an unused church in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula on Monday, killing seven people, including three civilians, officials said. The attackers fired rocket-propelled grenades and traded gunfire with the guards outside the Church of Saint George in the center of el-Arish, security and military officials said. Services at the church were suspended months ago, following a wave of attacks on Christians in Sinai. The militants then robbed a bank before fleeing in a pickup and a motorcycle to the southern outskirts of the city. "They looted the entire bank and left explosive devices inside," a senior security official said. The clashes killed three civilians, including a child, three guards and one soldier and wounded another 15 people, including women and children, the officials said. BRUSSELS - European Union foreign ministers are urging the US Congress to safeguard the Iran nuclear agreement after President Donald Trump withdrew his support for the deal. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in Luxembourg on Monday that "we hope Congress will not call this agreement into question." Dutch counterpart Bert Koenders said the agreement concerns "the safety of the world. I hope also that the US Congress will realize this and take the right decisions." Belgium's foreign minister, Didier Reynders, said that walking away would compromise trust in any future negotiations on North Korea's nuclear ambitions. He said: "We must be able to demonstrate that when a nuclear agreement has been concluded that we respect it." EL-ARISH - An Islamic State affiliate has claimed responsibility for a series of attacks in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula that killed nine soldiers and wounded at least 37 others. The simultaneous attacks, targeting checkpoints across the town of Sheikh Zweid, prompted Egyptian authorities to postpone the opening of the Rafah crossing with Gaza. The crossing was due to open Monday for four days. No new date has been set. Security and hospital officials raised the death toll to nine overnight Monday, while the army said 24 attackers were killed. The ISIS claim was carried by the extremists' Aamaq media outlet. By PTI: New Delhi, Oct 17 (PTI) The CBI has informed the Supreme Court that it has investigated 33 coal scam cases covering allocations to 168 companies through meetings of the screening committee during the period 2006 to 2009. In its October 6 status report, the agency has told a bench headed by Justice M B Lokur that for this period, the total number of cases probed by them was 33, of which final reports have been filed in the special court in 28 cases. advertisement The agency said that final reports would be filed in two cases before the end of November this year. Special public prosecutor R S Cheema told the bench, also comprising Justices Kurian Joseph and A K Sikri, that "insofar as M/s Prakash Industries is concerned, the final report will be filed with regard to allotment of Vijay Central coal block, Urtan coal block as well as Chotia coal block". The agency also told the court that in two cases, letters rogatory were pending. "In respect of the other case, formal authentication is required from the authorities in Malaysia. As soon as that is received, the final report will be filed. One case is still under scrutiny in the sense that the investigation is complete but the material is being scrutinised," the agency has said, adding that the final report would be filed in these cases before November end. The apex court has asked CBI to file the next status report before December 4. The court has asked the CBI and Enforcement Directorate to expedite their probe in the coal scam cases. The apex court had on January 23 constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the allegations of "abuse of authority" prima facie committed by former CBI Director Ranjit Sinha to scuttle investigation and enquiries in the coal block allocation cases. It had observed that a prima facie case has "definitely" been made out for probe into the abuse of authority by Sinha. It had later directed that no CBI officer, who is probing coal scam cases or officials from SIT probing allegations of "abuse of authority" against the former CBI director, would be transferred without its prior permission. PTI ABA MNL SJK RKS ARC --- ENDS --- BEIRUT - US-backed militias have completely taken Syria's Raqqa from Islamic State, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Tuesday. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by a US-led international alliance, has been fighting Islamic State inside Raqqa since June. NEW YORK - A New Jersey man was convicted Tuesday of planting two pressure-cooker bombs on New York City streets, including one that injured 30 people with a rain of shrapnel when it detonated in a bustling neighborhood on a weekend night last summer. The verdict in Manhattan came after a two-week trial of 29-year-old Ahmad Khan Rahimi, an Afghanistan-born man living in Elizabeth. The charges, including using a weapon of mass destruction and bombing a public place, carry a maximum punishment of life in prison. Prosecutors said Rahimi considered himself "a soldier in a holy war against Americans" and was inspired by the Islamic State group and al-Qaeda to carry out the late summer attacks in New York and New Jersey. He was found guilty of all the charges against him. The defense said it will appeal. RAQQA - US-backed militias have completely taken Syria's Raqqa from Islamic State, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Tuesday. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The fall of Raqqa city, where Islamic State staged euphoric parades after its string of lightning victories in 2014, is a potent symbol of the jihadist movement's collapsing fortunes. From the city, the group planned attacks abroad. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by a US-led international alliance, has been fighting Islamic State inside Raqqa since June. Syrian Democratic Forces fighters celebrate in Raqqa (Photo: AFP) An SDF spokesman said the alliance would capture the last Islamic State areas in the city within hours. The stadium and a hospital, the SDF said they had captured earlier on Tuesday, were the jihadists' last bases. Syrian Democratic Forces fighters celebrate in Raqqa (Photo: AFP) A local field commander said no Islamic State fighters remained even in the stadium and the hospital, two central city points where Islamic State had been entrenched and where the SDF said fighting on Monday night and early Tuesday was focused. "We do still know there are still IEDs and booby traps in and amongst the areas that ISIS once held, so the SDF will continue to clear deliberately through areas," said Colonel Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the coalition. In a sign that the four-month battle for Raqqa was in its last stages, Dillon said there had been no coalition air strikes there on Monday. It is now hemmed in to a tiny bomb-cratered patch of the city around the stadium that was being pounded from the air by a US-led coalition and encircled by SDF fighters. Syrian Democratic Forces fighters celebrate in Raqqa (Photo: AFP) Islamic State has lost swathes of territory in Syria and Iraq this year, including its most prized possession, Mosul, and in Syria it has been forced back into a strip of the Euphrates valley and surrounding desert. Israeli lawmakers want to tighten a ban on the employment of underweight models and on the undeclared digital slimming-down of fashion images, amid concern that the measures are being routinely flouted even as they are adopted abroad. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The fashion industrys use of wafer-thin models has long been the subject of heated debate worldwide. Critics say the practice promotes an unhealthy body image among women, which can contribute to triggering anorexia and other eating disorders and a preoccupation with unrealistic measures of perfection. Israel in 2012 became the first country to pass a law requiring advertisers explicitly to identify pictures with photoshopped people and prohibiting the use of models below a certain body mass index (BMI), a measure which expresses a ratio of weight to height. Israeli photographer demonstrate the post production editing process of a photo shoot (Photo: Reuters) Other countries including France, a hub of the fashion industry, have since followed Israels lead. But unlike Israels so-called anti-photoshop law, French legislation that takes effect this month imposes fines and jail sentences on those who fail to comply. The problem with the Israeli law is that theres no punishment, said Israeli photographer Adi Barkan, who was consulted on both the Israeli and French legislation. So you continue using skinny girls and no one cares, he said, in comments reinforced by a recent Israeli parliamentary report that revealed the ineffectiveness of the existing law. 'A lot of pressure' MK Nurit Koren (Likud), with the backing of 42 other members of the Knesset, has now prepared a draft bill she hopes will rectify the shortcomings. The fashion industry needs to know (it can no longer ignore the law), said Koren, who said she took up the cause after watching the daughter of a close friend struggle with anorexia. The 2012 law, which prohibits the hiring of women and men for modeling jobs with a BMI of less than 18.5, says models must obtain a medical certificate confirming a normal BMI. Adverts shown in Israel must also clearly state whether they have used computer-editing techniques to airbrush or slim down models. Under Korens proposed changes, state authorities would for the first time be able to fine agencies and others who flout the law and would require a doctor to see an applicant in person, not just approve their application over the telephone. Israeli photographer Adi Barkan, who runs campaigns promoting healthy and realistic fashion standards, and another Israeli photographer demonstrate the post production editing process of a photo shoot (Photo: Reuters) Her move coincides with an announcement by major global fashion firms, including Christian Dior and Gucci, that they will stop hiring underweight models for catwalks. Getty Images, a major international photo agency, also recently issued new guidelines barring photos with slimmed-down models, even if labeled. Yael Latzer, an eating disorder expert at Haifa University in northern Israel, said images of skinny and photoshopped models alone do not cause eating disorders. (But) young (people) always feel that something is wrong with them, she said, adding that the media was pulling the trigger for those already genetically predisposed to eating disorder diseases such as anorexia. Former Israeli supermodel Maayan Keret said she had developed an eating disorder after she felt a lot of pressure from everyone to continually lose weight. Now, having overcome the disease, she works to promote positive body images. The standards (women and girls) see everywhere of beauty are not natural, Keret told Reuters. They see those images. And they think thats the way it should be. After the Israel Air Force attacked a Syrian aerial defense battery on Monday morning, which earlier launched a surface-to-air missile towards IAF planes while flying over Lebanon, the Assad regime began circulating false claims that its forces had struck an Israeli jet. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter Underpinning its boastful claims, the regime disseminated doctored photos depicting an Israeli jet burning in the skies after being struck by a Syrian surface-to-air missile, accompanied by the caption even weaker than a spiders web. Syrian propaganda video X The derisory slogan, most commonly associated with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who famously employed the term to describe Israel after the Second Lebanon War in 2006. 'Weaker than a spider's web' The campaign may have come in response to a social media campaign launched by the Arabic department of the IDF Spokesperson's Unit which included the publication of Israels military weaponry under the caption Dont play with fire. A few hours before the missile was fired at the Israeli plane, the Syrian Defense Ministry published video clips glorifying its air force and the air defense apparatus. 'Don't play with fire' Throughout the day, the embellishing of the Syrian air force's feats against Israel continued when an archive of videos were also published showing dog fights between Syrian and Israeli aircraft during wars they have faced each other. On Monday afternoon, a few hours after the skirmish, the Syrian army published a statement containing false information. Syrian battles with the IAF Israeli planes infiltrated at 08:51 into Lebanese airspace in Baalbek and the air defense apparatus shot at it. One of the planes was directly hit and forced to flee, the statement read. At 11:38 the Israeli enemy launched a few rockets from inside Israel and they fell on one of the Syrian positions in the Damascus suburbs. As a result there was only collateral damage, the statement continued before issuing a warning against further Israeli attacks. The military command of the Syrian army warns of the severe consequences of repeated aggressive Israeli attempts and emphasizes its determination to continue the war against the terror gangs that act as Israel's arm in the region. Assad regime's new propaganda video showing Syrian capabilities Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu followed up the IDF's retaliation strike against Syria by stating, "Whoever strikes at us, we strike at them. Today they tried to harm our planesunacceptable. "The air force acted precisely and swiftly, destroying what needed to be destroyed. We will continue to act in the space as much as necessary to defend Israel's security." Dozens of people with disabilities protested outside the Prime Minister's Residence in Jerusalem on Tuesday. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The protesters, who demand to have their disability benefits increased to equal minimum wage, blocked and forcefully shook the residence's entry gate. "Where are you? Come out and see us. Come talk to us," one protester called out at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu using a megaphone. "This is the second time we've come to you and gotten (the cold shoulder). We call on you to come and explain why you're torturing us. Why haven't the benefits been raised in 16 years?" Disabled protesters block PM's Residence (Photo: Amir Alon) After several minutes in which the protesters shook the entry gate, police officers were sent to stand between them and the gate. On their way to the capital, the disabled protesters drove slowly, at about 5 km/h, on Highway 1, the main artery leading to Jerusalem, blocking it and causing heavy traffic congestion. The activism groups that organized the protest in Jerusalem have broken off from the main leadership of the disabled people's struggle over opposition to an agreement signed with the government Some 100 Haredi men have blocked the junction of Sarei Israel and Jaffa Streets in Jerusalem in protest of the arrest of two yeshiva students who draft dodged. Meanwhile, in a similar protest in Bnei Brak, police have arrested 28 Haredi protestors during a demonstration of the ultra-orthodox "Jerusalem faction." Police said the protestors were assaulting the officers assigned to the scene and causing public disturbances. The Jerusalem Magistrates Court ruled that the website Avoda Ivrit has been discriminatory in its practices, in its efforts to exclusively promote the employment of Jews, excluding members of any and all other populations. The website was fined NIS 40,000 plus legal fees for their actions. The lawsuit was filed by the Israel Religious Action Center and the Mossawa Center Arab Citizen Rights in Israel against the Avoda Ivrit site's operator, Erez Liberman. The original plaintiffs were later joined by the Welfare and Social Services Ministry's Equal Employment Opportunities Department. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The suit stated that Avoda Ivrit publishes ads by organizations and employers who only hire Jews, in an effort to encourage this practice. The website additionally posted content that promotes Jews-only employment, as well as content that details the "dangers" in hiring "non-allies." The website also includes posts from employers who rely on it, in which they describe "the good feeling that comes from hiring Jews" and "the great satisfaction in providing for and hiring my brethren and not giving money to those defined as my enemy." Their comments also warn against hiring non-Jews, and particularly against hiring Arabs. Illustration (Photo: Shutterstock) Judge Einat Abram Muller ruled in favor of the plaintiffs and stated, "The service provided in the 'Avoda Ivrit Job Board' constitutes religion-or-nationality-based discrimination." She further clarified that "Service given in the public sphere to Jews alone while being withheld from non-Jews (as the service provider carries out actions to confirm that the service is only offered to Jews), constitutes discrimination." Screenshot from website, with comments on 'joy of providing for Jewish families' The original lawsuit requested that the website also be removed from the internet, in addition to receiving monetary compensation. However, after the court clarified that removing it from the web is not within its jurisdiction, this request was removed from the complaint. "This verdict clearly states that there is no place for discrimination in the Israeli work force," said State Commissioner and Attorney Miriam Kabeha. "We as a society must denounce and rebuke any sign of discrimination or segregation in the work force. A diverse, inclusive work force with equality for all is in all of our interests, and so I congratulate all laborers and the Magistrates' Court for this important verdict. The Political-Security Cabinet decided Israel will not negotiate with the Palestinians until Hamas is disarmed, it was decided in a meeting called following the Hamas-Fatah recent reconciliation agreement . The decision was made after the agreement did not broach the issue of Hamas disarmament. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The cabinet's decision was unanimous. Despite certain claims during the meeting saying Israel should not completely abdicate its responsibility, the eventual decision reached by all in attendance said Israel's position should negate negotiations to avoid providing Hamas with indirect legitimacy. The cabinet decided Israel would not negotiate with Palestinians until Hamas is disarmed (Photos: Yonatan Sindel, AFP) "Pursuant to previous decisions, the Israeli government will not politically negotiate with a Palestinian government in which Hamas, a terrorist organization calling for the annihilation of Israel, takes part, so long as the following conditions are not met," the Prime Minister's Office announced Tuesday. "Hamas must recognize Israel and cease terrorism as per the Quartet's terms, Hamas must disarm, bodies of IDF soldiers and living Israeli civilians must be returned from Gaza, the Palestinian Authority must exert full security control over Gaza, including in border crossings and smuggling prevention, and must continue foiling Hamas's terror plots in the West Bank, Hamas must disengage from Iran and, finally, only finances and humanitarian equipment from the Palestinian Authority will be allowed to enter Gaza," the prime minister described Israel's preconditions. The meeting, which lasted two and a half hours, was a continuation of Monday's meeting that was adjourned due to the Syrian attack of an IAF plane and the IAF's subsequent response attack . During the cabinet meeting, security establishment officials said Palestinian reconciliation has faced innumerable difficulties. Minister Bennett demanded the Cabinet be convened to discuss reconciliation agreement's ramifications (Photo: Marc Israel Sellem) Minister of Education Naftali Bennett, who demanded the cabinet convene to discuss the matter, said this was a strategic decision defining the basic ground rules for any negotiations in light of PA President Mahmoud Abbas joining forces with the Hamas terrorist organization. Bennett congratulated Netanyahu on adopting the decision considering the PA to be a "terrorism authority" and said Israeli efforts must now be focused on returning civilians and bodies of soldiers Hadar Goldin and Oron Shaul to Israel while exacting a price for their capture from Hamas and the PA. Minister of Jerusalem Affairs Ze'ev Elkin also welcomed the decision. "Abbas is not looking for ways to push peace with Israel forward, preferring instead peace with a terrorist organization. The State of Israel cannot hold any political talks with a Palestinian government built around terrorists," he said. Minister Elkin said Abbas prefers peace with terrorist organization over peace with Israel (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg) Following the Cabinet's decision, a senior Palestinian official told Ynet it was merely a "new excuse meant to lead negotiations to a deadlock, since Israel has never wanted the West Bank to reconnect with Gaza." "It has always been in Israel's interest to keep Gaza separate from the West Bank and weakened," the official added. Hamas also commented on the decision, saying it constituted "Unlawful Israeli involvement in an internal Palestinian matter. Every Palestinian must not indentify or acquiesce to this crude Israeli interference. The Palestinian response must be continuing to stabilize the internal front for the reconciliation's success." The reconciliation agreement, signed last week, said civilian control of Gaza, including border crossings into the strip, will be transferred to the Palestinian unity government December 1, after a decade of total Hamas rule over Gaza. President Abbas instructed the Palestinian government and security forces to work to implement the agreement, called on all factions to work on restoring unity to the Palestinian people and said, "The agreement signed in Cairo will drive plans to end the split." The agreement was signed under the watchful eye of Egyptian General Intelligence Director Khaled Fawzy , who served as mediator during the negotiations leading up to it. Security officials said Palestinian reconciliation agreement was not achieved without acrimony (Photo: AFP) Saleh al-Arouri , who said, "We have decided to take a step-by-step approach to implementing reconciliation. Talks this time were aimed at allowing the unity government to operate fully in both the Gaza Strip and West Bank." Following the agreement's signing, the Prime Minister's Office said that "Any reconciliation between the PA and Hamas must include honoring international agreements and the Quartet conditions, first and foremost among them recognizing Israel and disarming Hamas. The continued digging of tunnels, missile manufacturing and initiating terrorist attacks against Israel goes against the Quartet's terms and the United States' efforts to renew negotiations." "Israel demands these terms be met, as well as the immediate release of three Israeli citizens Avera Mengistu , Jumaa Ibrahim Abu-Ghanima and Hisham a-Said and the return of the remains of fallen IDF soldiers Oron Shaul and Hadar Goldin cruelly held by Hamas. Goldin (L) and Shaul's bodies are reportedly still held by Hamas "As long as Hamas does not disarm and continues to call for the destruction of Israel, Israel holds it responsible for all terrorist actions originating in the Gaza Strip," the PMO stated. "Israel insists that the PA not allow any base whatsoever for Hamas terrorist actions from PA areas in Judea and Samaria or from Gaza, if the PA indeed takes responsibility for its territory." "Israel will monitor developments on the ground and act accordingly," the statement concluded. Hamas sources told pan-Arab newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat on Sunday that one of the conditions of the agreement is that Fatah and Hamas make decisions on important issues together, such as signing a peace agreement or launching a war against Israel, and that this article included both the West Bank and Gaza. A Palestinian source close to the talks told Ynet Tuesday Hamas demanded the PA stops arresting its West Bank operatives during the negotiation phase, while Fatah demanded Hamas stop carrying out attacks against Israel from the West Bank proper. WASHINGTON The United States military said on Tuesday it had received mixed accounts of the death toll in a clash on Monday between Iraqi and Kurdish forces, with between three and 11 fighters killed. Colonel Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the US-led coalition fighting Islamic State, acknowledged limitations on the ability of the United States to gather on-the-ground information about the confrontation between the two US allies. He also said he had no information about Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps units in and around the Iraqi city of Kirkuk despite reports from Iraqi Kurdistan. By PTI: police Srinagar, Oct 17 (PTI) Posters, attributed to militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen, have appeared in parts of Kashmir warning the migrant population to leave the Valley by October 25. The police, however, dismissed the posters as a "mischief" in the wake of increasing incidents of mysterious braid-chopping incidents in the state. "The non-locals mostly work here as labourers. It seems someone has played a mischief," Director General of Police S P Vaid said. advertisement With an increase in braid-chopping incidents over the past month, self-appointed vigilante groups have surfaced in parts of Kashmir who beat up people suspecting them to be the perpetrators. These groups have largely targeted the local Kashmiri people, some migrant labourers and tourists have also been caught in the crosshairs of the vigilante groups. On October 5, a septuagenarian died after a young man hit him with a stone under the impression he was the one behind the mysterious incidents. Police has set up special investigation teams at district levels to investigate the cases of braid chopping and announced a reward of Rs 6 lakh for information leading to the arrest of the culprits, but has so far failed to make any headway. Police officials claim non-cooperation of victims in their investigation as one of the reasons for the unsolved cases. In some cases, though, it has come to light that people were using these incidents as an excuse to settle scores. Vaid earlier this week said a mass hysteria was being generated by vested interests to whip up tension in the Valley. According to the police, more than 100 braid-chopping incidents have been reported, out of which 63 were related to people who were either being treated for mental illness or were under the influence of local godmen. Separatists and militant groups in the Valley have blamed security agencies for orchestrating braid-chopping incidents for creating panic among the people. PTI MIJ ABH SK ABH --- ENDS --- BOSTON Federal prosecutors on Tuesday said a Massachusetts man accused of plotting to attack police and behead a conservative blogger was a passionate supporter of the Islamic State militant group who recruited people including his own uncle into the scheme. The prosecutors contend that David Wright, 28, along with his uncle and a friend had plotted to kill the blogger, a woman who organized a 2015 "Draw Mohammed" contest in Garland, Texas. They said the plan unraveled when the uncle, Usamaah Abdullah Rahim, lost patience and said he wanted to kill police officers instead. "The defendant was a sophisticated recruiter, he manipulated people, including his own uncle, into believing that they needed to join ISIS and kill Americans," said Assistant US Attorney Stephanie Siegmann, using a common acronym to refer to Islamic State. "The defendant was committed to ISIS and he knew exactly what he was doing," Siegmann said in prosecutors' closing statements at Wright's trial in Boston federal court. LONDON Britain faces the most acute threat ever from Islamist militants seeking to inflict mass attacks, often with spontaneous plots that take just days to bring to execution, the head of the MI5 domestic intelligence agency said on Tuesday. After four militant attacks this year that killed 36 people in Britain - the deadliest spate since the London "7/7" bombings of July 2005, MI5 chief Andrew Parker said the threat was at the highest tempo he had seen in 34 years of espionage. "The threat is more diverse than I have ever known: plots developed here in the UK, but plots directed from overseas as well, plots online, complex scheming and also crude stabbings, lengthy planning but also spontaneous attacks," said Parker. "Attacks can sometimes accelerate from inception, through planning, to action in just a handful of days," he said in a speech in central London. The director general of MI5 rarely gives public speeches. The last was in 2015. SANTA ROSA, Calif. Search-and-rescue teams in Northern California will continue to comb through burned homes for dozens of people still missing in the state's deadliest wildfires, which have killed at least 41 people and destroyed thousands of homes. Light winds were expected, a condition that has helped 11,000 firefighters control the flames which in the past week have consumed more than 245,000 acres (86,200 hectares) in the state, an area more than five times the size of Washington, D.C. The affected area includes Napa and Sonoma counties in California's wine country. "We're in a far better position today than we were several days ago," Calistoga Mayor Chris Canning said in a phone interview early on Tuesday, referring to the Napa Valley. Tens of thousands of people who fled the flames in Sonoma County and elsewhere have been allowed to return home. About 34,000 were still displaced. Over the last three years, thousands of aspiring Aussie investors have sat frustrated on the sidelines" because of skyrocketing house prices in Sydney and Melbourne. At the same time, dozens of other locations throughout Australia were producing strong price growth and were significantly more affordable, according to Simon Pressley, head of property market research at Propertyology. One of the biggest myths in real estate is that capital cities are the best investments, Pressley said. It always fascinates me how so many investors are oblivious to the opportunities throughout regional Australia where, generally speaking, it costs much less to enter the market, annual holding costs are lower, and potential for price growth can be superior to many high-profile cities. Had these aspiring property investors expanded their search beyond the capital cities and high-profile council areas, they may very well have been able to enter the market sooner and built up sizeable nest eggs. Regional New South Wales Throughout parts of NSW, investors will find proof that well-chosen regional locations do produce that sought-after mix of affordable investment properties with high price growth and a better annual cash flow, Pressley said. Locations that have produced compound price growth of 15% or more over the last three years, and have a current median house price of about $400,000 or less, include Coolamon (25.6% compound growth), Kempsey (23.6%), Dubbo (19%), Leeton (17%), Bathurst (15.7%), and Forbes (15.2%). Pressley also singled out Guyra as having achieved a rate of growth comparable to that of Sydneys blue-chip suburbs. Todays median house price in the Northern Tablelands township is an incredibly low $280,000, after increasing by a whopping 50 per cent over the three years ending May 2017. Regional Queensland The Sunshine State has its fair share of hidden gems. The median house price in Goondiwindi is still only $310,000, and investors would have achieved a far better total return on investment over the last three years [here] than in metropolitan Brisbane. The Sunshine Coast ($550,000) and Gold Coast ($618,000) have also outperformed the states capital, he said. Regional locations such as Scenic Rim, Cairns, and Toowoomba have produced similar total returns as the Greater-Brisbane municipalities of Logan, Ipswich, and Moreton Bay. Regional Tasmania Throughout most of [Tasmania], the low entry price and high rental yields mean that an investment property will usually be cash flow neutral or better good luck getting that in Sydney or Melbourne! Pressley said. He singled out the northern Hobart municipality of Glenorchy as having produced 18% price growth over the last three years, and is cash flow positive to the tune of $2,500 per annum. Instead of sitting on the sidelines frustrated at being unable to afford to invest in Melbourne, one could have enjoyed 21 per cent price growth over the last three years from a typical property in the Victorian local government authorities of Colac or Alpine, where the median house price is under $340,000. That growth is on par with many parts of Greater-Melbourne, and a typical investment property would be cash flow neutral. Propertyology has a full list of lower-profile locations that have performed strongly over the last three years. Related Stories: A Revolution In Scientific Property Buying Hobart Is Poised For Immense Growth Yuma News Yuma, Arizona - AWCs Office of Financial Aid and the Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education (ACPE) are teaming up for their annual College Goal FAFSA event. All college bound students are encouraged to attend College Goal FAFSA on Saturday, Nov. 4, in Meeting Room A at the Yuma Main Library, 2951 S. 21st Drive, from 1 to 3 p.m. New and continuing students planning to attend any college/university during the 2018-2019 school year will receive FREE help to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). There will be computers with internet connection to access the FAFSA online and financial aid professionals to offer information in both English and Spanish. The purpose of College Goal FAFSA is to assist students, especially minority and first generation college applicants, in completing the FAFSA, which is their first step toward accessing postsecondary education. Advocates of higher education report that every year about 2 million students who may be eligible for aid do not complete their FAFSA. Consequently, recent data by the U.S. Department of Education shows that approximately 30% of high school graduates in Yuma County are part of that statistic. Students are now able to complete their FAFSA as early as October 1, because they will be using tax information from two years prior (2016 taxes). FAFSA is still seen by many as a daunting first step toward towards college/university, which is why all students are encourage to attend this event. ACPEs mission is to expand access and increase success in postsecondary education for Arizona. Visit www.collegegoal.az.gov for more information about College Goal FAFSA. Washington DC: United States President Donald Trump on Monday said he hoped his "crooked" political arch rival Hillary Clinton would run for the 2020 presidential elections. In a morning tweet, the President said, "I was recently asked if Crooked Hillary Clinton is going to run in 2020? My answer was, 'I hope so!'." The President claimed that her stance on professional athletes protesting racial inequality during the national anthem is an example of why she lost the election in November. During a public appearance in England, Clinton reportedly defended the players' right to demonstrate against racial injustice, saying it does not go against the national anthem or the American flag, CNBC reports. After losing the Presidential bid last year, Clinton has remained out of public life and hinted at not contesting election again. However, she has expressed that she would remain active in national politics, telling CBS in September that she believed "our country's future is at stake". Clinton also lost race to the White House in 2008 when she was defeated by Barack Obama. Clinton, in the course of promoting her new book 'What Happened', has been mounting attack on Trump. While speaking on Sunday at the Southbank Centre's London Literature Festival, Clinton said she was worried that Trump could in "a moment of pique" launch a nuclear missile, reports The Independent. She also accused the President of "picking fights" with North Korea and Iran for the sake of "point scoring." In an interview that aired on CNN's Fareed Zakaria GPS on Sunday, though taped days in advance, Clinton criticised Trump for his threats to end the nation's nuclear deal with Iran and described his actions, "very dangerous". In the backdrop of North Korea's expanding nuclear weapons programme, Trump has said that North Korea would be greeted with "fire and fury like the world has never seen". On Friday, Trump struck a blow against the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement by choosing not to certify that Tehran is complying with the deal. In the Obama-era accord, Iran had agreed to restrict its nuclear programme for at least 10 years in exchange for the loosening of economic sanctions. New Delhi: Jewellers are bracing for the festive season and the trend is looking better due to the government decision on the Prevention of Money-laundering Act (PMLA) and stability in the prices of the precious metal. India is celebrating Dhanteras on Tuesday, the day when buying gold is considered auspicious. Also read: Dhanteras 2017 Check out current gold prices in major Indian cities Gold prices are currently hovering at Rs 30,850 per 10 grams at the bullion market in Delhi on the occasion of Dhanteras while last year the precious metal stood at Rs 30,590 per 10 grams. "However, the sentiment is not at its full potential. After GST was implemented (in July) it brought in its own share of challenges, which will be there for some time," World Gold Council Managing Director, India, Somasundaram PR told PTI. GST was not adopted properly and putting gold and silver imports from South Korea in restricted list also caused disruptions in the market, Somasundaram said. "However, I would say demand will still go up and touch the level achieved last year," he added. Gold prices in India traded at a premium this week for the first time in more than three months after a spurt in purchases. India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) Director Saurabh Gadgil told PTI that the market sentiment is improving but it has not yet become buoyant. "If the overall business remains same as the last year or goes marginally up by 5 percent, we will be very happy," added Gadgil, who is also PNG Jewellers Chairman and Managing Director. Echoing a similar view, All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation (GJF) Chairman Nitin Khandelwal said there has been some relief for the maker players due to the government decision on the PMLA. However, due to less currency in the market the overall sentiment is dull, he said. "The momentum has started, but it is yet to pick up. There is less currency circulating in the market as an aftereffect of demonetisation announced last year. Because of this, there have been less buyers this year during Dhanteras and Diwali," he added. In a relief to the industry, the government has removed gems and jewellery dealers from the purview of the reporting requirement under the PMLA. Early this month, the government rolled back August 23 notification that notified dealers in precious metals, precious stones and other high value goods as persons carrying on designated business and professions under the Act. Cyberabad police found five dead bodies from two different families near Hyderabad's Kolluru. The police are currently investigating to determine whether it was a suicide case or a murder case. By Ashish Pandey: In a shocking case, the Cyberabad police on Tuesday found five dead bodies on busy Outer Ring Road of Hyderabad. The police are trying to ascertain the cause of death of all those including three women and a child. The initial investigations show that the victims belonged to the same family. After receiving a call, the Narsingi police reached the spot at ORR near Kolluru, off Patancheru, and found five dead bodies from a desolated place. While the bodies of women were found amid bushes, dead body of a man and a child was found in a blue car with the registration number AP 28 DM 3775 around 2 km away from first spot. advertisement Prima facie, the situation looked like a suicide pact as there were no injury marks on the bodies. However, the police are investigating the case from all possible angles. The investigation has revealed that the deceased belonged to Ameenpur Village. A missing case of was also registered two days ago by the relatives. "The victims are from two different families, one of them was identified as 30-year-old Prabhakar Reddy, a stockbroker. Others were identified as Reddy's son Varshit(2), wife Madhavi(26), his aunt Laxmi (42) and her 16-year-old daughter Sindhuja. Prabhakar and his family lived in RC Puram of Cyberabad while Laxmi was living with her husband Ravinder Reddy along with son and daughter Sindhuja at ITW Signode colony of Ameenpur. We have registered a case and investing it further scientifically" said a senior police officer of Cyberabad Commissionerate. Police has found a woman's dead body holding her mobile on her hand and has sent the phone for examination. Based on the call data available in the mobiles of the deceased, the police are gathering more information that whether it was a suicide case or a murder case. --- ENDS --- New Delhi: For the first time in JNU, its teachers' association on Tuesday called for a 'public inquiry' against Vice Chancellor M Jagadesh Kumar for allegedly violating various conventions of the university. The teachers body, exercising its powers under the Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association (JNUTA) Constitution, set a three-day deadline for the Vice Chancellor to submit his defence and state if he would appear for hearings in person or through a representative. "In exercise of powers in JNUTA Constitution, the association proposes to hold a public inquiry against the VC for various violations. He is also given time till October 20 to submit a written statement in his defence," JNUTA president Ayesha Kidwai said in a release. Kidwai said the hearings will take place at 5 PM from October 23-27. "If the VC fails to acknoweledge or fails to appear, the hearings will be held ex-parte," the statement said. JNUTA listed a list of charges against the Vice Chancellor (VC) and asked him to specifically deny or admit each charge. Some of the allegations included undermining the integrity of faculty selection process, violation of reservation policy, harassing teachers, denying their legitimate dues, undermining sexual harassment watchdog GSCASH and callous attitude in missing student Najeeb's case. Legal experts and eminent citizens were expected to chair the hearings and issue a judgement. The Vice Chancellor did not respond when contacted for a reaction on the the JNUTA statement. Paris: A new law banning cat-calling and harassment of women on French streets will see men fined on the spot for lecherous and aggressive behaviour, France's women's minister said Monday. The legislation is being piloted by 34-year-old Marlene Schiappa, a feminist and early supporter of French President Emmanuel Macron who wants to tackle sexist male attitudes in public spaces. "It's completely necessary because at the moment street harassment is not defined in the law," she told RTL radio on Monday in a major interview to outline the law, which is to be voted next year. The escalating scandal over Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein's alleged sexual assaults on a string of actresses has rekindled debate on sexual harassment and predation in France. The #MeToo encouraging women to share their experiences is among the top 10 trends on French Twitter, and a new one has emerged - #balancetonporc ("Expose the Pig") - to report sexual harassment in the workplace. Asked about the difficulty of drawing a line between harassment and flirtation, Schiappa replied: "We know very well at what point we start feeling intimidated, unsafe or harassed in the street." She cited examples such as when a man invades a woman's personal space - "by talking to you 10, 20 centimetres from your face" - or follows a woman for several blocks, or "asks for your number 17 times." A cross-party task force composed of five MPs has been asked to work with police and magistrates to come up with a definition of harassment that can be enforced by officers on the streets. "The level of the fine is part of our discussions," Schiappa said, adding that neighbourhood police would act on complaints brought to their attention by women. "The symbolic value of laws that outlaw street harassment is very great," she said. The legislation will also include provisions such as lengthening the amount of time women have to lodge sexual assault complaints dating from their childhood and toughening laws on sex with minors. Raphaelle Remy-Leleu of the feminist organisation Osez le Feminisme (Dare to Be Feminist) told AFP: "I hope that social tolerance will decrease after people become more aware" of sexual harassment. "But there's a lot of work to be done." New Delhi: Concerned over thick smoke billowing from the farmlands of Punjab and Haryana causing smog over New Delhis skies at the onset of winters, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) will take up the cases related to stubble burning across the two states on Tuesday. In the previous hearing, the Green Panel had asked the Center and the Ministry of Agriculture to respond to its concerns regarding the threats posed to the environment by stubble burning. Smoke from bursting of firecrackers around Diwali is yet another reason behind the thick blanket of smog hovering over the skies in the national capital. Importantly, the Punjab government had said that the Center was not helping it in controling the practice of stubble burning across the state. The hearing in the NGT court will start at around 11 o'clock, according to reports. The Green Panel had on Friday asked the Centre and the Punjab government to explain as to what steps it had done to tackle the issue of stubble burning. The tribunal further directed the Punjab Government to draw up a list of power plants and other industries that can use the crop residue as a source of power. The green panel also issued notice to the NTPC, which had projected that it will take the residue as a source of power and sought reply on the same. On October 11, the NGT had asked the Punjab Government to present before the Tribunal, the 21 farmers who had benefited from the schemes rolled out by the government. A Bench headed by NGT chairperson Swatanter Kumar asked the 12 farmers who were present in court whether they had genuinely received government help to tackle the crop residue. Responding to queries from the Bench, the farmers stated that the Punjab government had provided them with adequate machineries and even collected the crop residue and put it in panchayat lands. During the hearing, IG Kapila, who was appearing for the farmers, said that the problem lay with the implantation of the policies. Ironically, despite a lot of hue and cry raised by the NGT, farmers in Punjab continue to resort to stubble burning. In its aerial surveys from September 27 to October 10, the state remote sensing department had recorded incidents of raging fires at 1,002 points. In 2015, the NGT banned stubble burning but looking at the scale of paddy sown all over Punjab, the state agencies are finding it difficult to curb the practice. Last year, a total of 2,414 cases of stubble burning were reported in the state. With PTI inputs New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday night said that 10 Indian crew members of the Emerald Star are still missing, four days after the ship capsized near the Philippines coast. "There were 26 Indians on board the ship Emerald Star. Amongst them, 16 have been rescued and 10 are still missing," Swaraj wrote on Twitter. She also said that Japan Coast Guard was helping in search and rescue operations. "Indian Embassy in Japan has informed me that a helicopter and 2 patrol vessels of Japan Coast Guard are engaged in search/rescue operations. Indian Navy P81 has reached Manila and has also joined the search and rescue operation for missing Indians," Swaraj tweeted. Indian Embassy in Japan has informed me that a helicopter and 2 patrol vessels of Japan Coast Guard are engaged in search/rescue operations. Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) October 16, 2017 Indian Navy P81 has reached Manila and has also joined the search and rescue operation for missing Indians. /3 Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) October 16, 2017 The External Affairs Ministry (EAM) also confirmed that five crew members of the capsized cargo vessel were in Irene, Philippines and would be brought to Manila before repatriation to India."Five Indian crew members of 'Emerald Star' are in Irene, Philippines. Our Mission is bringing them to Manila before repatriation to India," EAM Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted on Monday night. The Hong Kong-registered cargo ship Emerald Star sank nearly 600 km south of Ishigaki island of Okinawa prefecture early on Friday. An Indian Navy plane took off for Manila to conduct a search and rescue operation on Monday. With agency inputs New Delhi: More than 250 policemen, some of whom had to give the guard of honour to Home Minister Rajnath Singh during his visit to Jodhpur on Wednesday went on a day's mass leave over rumours that their pay scale would be reduced. Singh was on a brief visit to Jodhpur to inaugurate a regional training centre for the Intelligence Bureau (IB). "Over 250 policemen went on a day's mass leave on Monday. Some of them were part of the team which was to give the guard of honour to the Union home minister. As they refused to report on duty, the team was replaced with other policemen," Jodhpur police commissioner Ashok Rathore said. He said abstaining from duty without sanctioned leave was indiscipline and calls for disciplinary action. Additional Director General of Police M L Lathar too had to face a similar embarrassing situation as the policemen refused to give him the guard of honour when he visited the Jodhpur Police Commissionerate yesterday. In a separate incident, 10 policemen posted at Jaipur's Civil Lines Metro Station got their heads tonsured in protest yesterday after six of their colleagues were transferred to police lines for allegedly protesting over the pay cut rumour. The rumour had it that the constabulary's pay scale would be reduced from the existing Rs 24,000 to Rs 19,000 per month. Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria shot down the rumours, saying the government issued no order for reducing the salary of any employee, including police personnel. "Issues related to salary are pending with the Cabinet Committee. So, there should be no confusion," Kataria said. Rajasthan DGP Ajit Singh said any indiscipline would not be condoned. "There are rumours pertaining to salary cut issue. We have provided our view to the government. People should not act in a way that hurt the dignity of the profession." The constabulary had been staging protests across the state for a fortnight over the alleged salary cut proposal. Their protest was previously limited only to boycotting the mess facility and wearing black ribbons during duty hours. A message on social media had gone viral ahead of the festive season which is believed to have led to the protests. New Delhi: In what is fast becoming a week defined by controversial remarks by politicians, Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan may have felt a little left behind. A day after BJP's Sangeet Som called Taj Mahal a blot on Indian culture, the former Uttar Pradesh minister described Rashtrapati Bhavan as a sign of slavery. A politician known for his questionable views on a number of issues, Azam Khan told reporters on Tuesday that buildings and monuments constructed in India by past rulers should be razed. "Signs of slavery which reek of past rulers should be erased. I had said even in the past that why not Parliament, why not Qutub Minar, why not Rashtrapati Bhavan, why not Lal Qila and why not Taj Mahal?" he said. Azam Khan's statement closely follows BJP MLAs remarks about Taj Mahal being built by a traitor. "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from the UP tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? Whose history? The creator of the Taj Mahal (Shah Jahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out all Hindus from India. If these people are part of our history, then it is very unfortunate," the Sardana MLA had said before being immensely trolled on Twitter. Many noted personalities have begun questioning Uttar Pradesh politicians across party lines for choosing to make 'preposterous statements' instead of concentrating on development."In UP, roads, hospitals, schools, colleges, police, municipal, etc. are in extremely bad shape, but BJP is discussing Taj Mahal. Priorities," said noted music composer Rahul Raj. Comedian Tanmay Bhat, who has a sizable fan following among the urban young in the country, too took a dig. "Taj Mahal is such a non issue but politicians will continue to try and divide this country...aur yaha twitter pe hum RW LW khelte rahe hai," he tweeted. While the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh was quick to distance itself from Som's comments and said it was his personal opinion, a reaction from Azam Khan's SP is awaited. New Delhi: Diesel generators in the capital were banned on Tuesday as air quality entered the red zone with two days left for Diwali. The Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) issued the ban which, however, exempts Delhi Metro and hospitals. Parking fees may also be hiked. EPCA chairman Bhure Lal and member Sunita Narain announced the decision following a review meeting here. The red zone is activated under the Graded Response Action Plan which came into effect in Delhi from Tuesday. Measures under 'Very Poor' and 'Severe' of the plan have come into force and apart from ban on use of diesel generators, parking fees too may see a four-fold hike. The drop in air quality is a stark warning about how even without fire crackers, pollutants contaminate the environment. Experts - both medical as well as environmental - mostly agree that burning crackers during Diwali further pollutes the air. The Supreme Court earlier this month banned sale of firecrackers to study its impact on air pollution. The current levels of pollution though may also be a result of farmers in Haryana and Punjab resorting to stubble burning - another major source of high air contamination. In such circumstances, the effect of banning diesel generators, possible hike in parking fees and even other urgent steps remains to be seen. Washington: More than four-fifths of Indian citizens trust their government, but interestingly, a majority of Indians also support military rule and autocracy, a latest Pew survey said on Monday. In India, where the economy has grown on average by 6.9 percent since 2012, 85 per cent (of people) trust their national government," Pew Research said in a report based on its survey on governance and trust among key countries across the world. Notably, in India, which has strong democratic credentials since the last seven decades, according to Pew, a majority (55 percent) of its people support autocracy in one way or the other. In fact, more than one-fourth (27 percent) of them want a strong leader. Nearly half of Russians (48 percent) back governance by a strong leader, but rule by a strong leader is generally unpopular, it said. A global median of 26 percent say a system in which a strong leader can make decisions without interference from parliament or the courts would be a good way of governing. Roughly seven-in-10 (71 percent) say it would be a bad type of governance. India is one of the three countries in the Asia Pacific region where people support technocracy. "Asian-Pacific publics generally back rule by experts, particularly people in Vietnam (67 percent), India (65 per cent) and the Philippines (62 percent)," it said. Only Australians are notably wary as 57 percent say it would be a bad way to govern, and only 41 per cent support governance by experts, the report said. According to the survey, roughly half of both Indians (53 percent) and South Africans (52 percent), who live in nations that often hold themselves up as democratic exemplars for their regions, say military rule would be a good thing for their countries. But in these societies, older people (those aged 50 and older) are the least supportive of the army running the country, and they are the ones who either personally experienced the struggle to establish democratic rule or are the immediate descendants of those democratic pioneers, Pew said. Only one in 10 in Europe back military rule. Pew said more than half in each of the 38 nations polled consider representative democracy a very or somewhat good way to govern their country. Yet, in all countries, pro-democracy attitudes coexist, to varying degrees, with openness to non-democratic forms of governance, including rule by experts, a strong leader, or the military. Here is what is making headlines on October 17, 2017 1. India could benefit from military rule, think majority of Indians: Study More than four-fifths of Indian citizens trust their government, but interestingly, a majority of Indians also support military rule and autocracy, a latest Pew survey said on Monday. Read more. 2. Shia Waqf offers 10 silver arrows for Ayodhya's proposed giant Ram statue In a letter to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, board chairman Waseem Rizvi said the silver arrows is a token of love and admiration from Shias to Lord Ram. Read more. 3. 90 percent of IAS officers don't work, hold up files, alleges Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has alleged that ninety percent of the IAS officers "do not work" and said at times he feels development was "stuck up at the Secretariat". Read more. 4. Mumbai rains threaten Diwali washout, Twitter compares it to the ex who refuses to move on While most are feeling upset for having been forced to stay indoors due to Mumbai rains, Twitter users seem to be having their share of fun. Read more. 5. Hashim Amla breaks Virat Kohli's ODI record, again South Africa's run-machine Hashim Amla churned out his 26th ODI century on Sunday and in the process left behind India captain Virat Kohli as the quickest to reach the landmark. Read more. 6. Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli look gorgeous together - See latest pics The couple recently shot for a TVC and they looked fabulous together. Though the ad hasnt been aired yet, images of the two from the sets of the shoot have surfaced online. Read more. By PTI: minister By Fakir Hassen Johannesburg, Oct 17 (PTI) The IBSA Dialogue Forum continues to play a moral and leadership role globally and offers the space for South-South cooperation, a senior South African Minister has said during the opening of the eighth IBSA Trilateral Ministerial Commission in Durban. Minister for International Relation and Cooperation Nkoana-Mashabane said the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) provided a platform for its members to cooperate on matters of common interest in respect of global governance issues, notably in the political, socio-economic and security domain. advertisement "In order to continue to be relevant in todays dynamic and changing political and economic environment, we will need to leverage our strengths and unique identity as a grouping of the Global-South with which we bring together three large pluralistic, multi-cultural and multi-ethnic societies from three continents," the minister said. "As we move through the proceedings, we will highlight the moral and leadership role that IBSA continues to play in the global arena and in the sphere of global governance," she said. THe minister said, "We should do more to ensure that this moral leadership is brought to bear in a more focused way on global issues, including the need for reform of the UN as well as on the appropriate responses to terrorism." Nkoana-Mashabane called for the rejection of protectionism and renewed commitment by members to the promotion of global trade and investment through an equitable, inclusive, innovative, invigorated and interconnected world economy. "We should therefore seek to leverage our joint membership in all multilateral platforms to strengthen and consolidate our positions," she said. The meeting was also attended by Union Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh. He reviewed the work of the IBSA Trust Fund aimed at addressing the common developmental challenges of countries in the South in various sectors such as agriculture, health and skills development. "In a modest way, we have been able to assist the poorest of the poor," he said. Meanwhile, Nkoana-Mashabane lauded the launch of the Indian Ocean Research Expedition Programme, an initiative to exploit the riches of the oceans for the benefit of IBSA members and their neighbouring states. The programme was launched aboard the SA Agulhas as part of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Councilmeeting. Hailing the launch as "a giant step", Nkoana-Mashabane said the expedition would create opportunities for youth in South Africa and its partner states in IORA. She said the researchers would now be able to establish the extent of the wealth is in the sea that has been lying unexploited for many years. The 21 members of IORA will collaborate on ideas of how their economies can be boosted by generating income form such discoveries. PTI FH AJR --- ENDS --- advertisement New Delhi: In yet another push to the BJP government's 'Clean India' campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hailed the construction of toilets ('izzat ghar') in Uttar Pradesh, which, he hoped, will prevent the dignity of Indian women. PM Narendra Modi referred to 'izzat ghar' a term coined by the UP government, which links women's pride with the construction of toilets - during a speech he delivered while inaugurating the first ever All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) here. 'I was happy to know that the newly constructed toilets in UP have 'izzat ghar' written on them and not' shauchalay,''' PM said. "When I was laying the foundation stone for toilets at a village in UP, I saw 'izzat ghar' written on them. I was happy to see the name. I congratulate the state government for coining this name," he said. The PM further added that his government was focusing on integrating the public healthcare system with Ayurveda and Yoga. "Ayurveda is not just a method of treatment. It encompasses social health, public health and environmental health," Modi said while inaugurating the institute, set up on the lines of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). "Understanding this need, our government is stressing on integrating the public healthcare system with Yoga, Ayurveda and other AYUSH methods," the PM said. ''It is critical for Ayurveda's expansion that there is a hospital linked with it in every district which offers quality healthcare services,'' the Prime Minister said. "The AYUSH Ministry is swiftly working in that direction, and in just three years, over 65 AYUSH hospitals have been set up," he added. Modi further said that no country can progress if it forgets how to take pride in its heritage. He said attempts were made during the British Rule to weaken India's traditional methods, including that of medicine, farming and science. "But in the last three years, the situation has been reversed to a large extent," Modi said. "Our heritage, which is superior, is being established in the minds of the people," he stated. He concluded by saying that his government has constructed more than 5 crore toilets in the last three years. Speeding up the task of PM Modis Clean India Mission in his own parliamentary constituency Varanasi, more than 300 hamlets were recently declared open defecation free. New Delhi: Gurmeet Ram Rahim's wife Harjeet Kaur visited him on Monday in the Rohtak jail where he is currently serving a 20-year sentence for raping two of his female followers. Harjeet was accompanied by son Jasmeet Singh Insan, daughter Charanpreet and son-in-law Ruah-a-Meet (husband of another daughter Amarpreet). This is the first time that Harjeet visited Ram Rahim since he was put behind bars late August. Reports say she brought sweets for Diwali for the self-styled godman who was convicted by a CBI court for raping two sadhvis in 2002. Adjusting to prison life has reportedly been tough for the Dera Sacha Sauda chief who is engaged in growing vegetables for which he makes Rs 20 daily. While prison authorities have said there are no special or VIP arrangements for him, a jail inmate last month said that Ram Rahim's life is under threat. "Ram Rahim Singh would be killed by inmates if left alone without security, such anger is against him," said Somu Pandit - a convict in the same prison who added that fellow inmates are extremely angry with the 50-year-old. Known for his lavish lifestyle, Ram Rahim has been given two books and two pairs of slippers at the Sunaria jail where he gave a list of 10 people who can meet him while he serves his term. The list included adopted daughter Honeypreet Singh who herself is in judicial custody. New Delhi: Former Rajya Sabha MP and maverick Bollywood lyricist-screenwriter Javed Akhtar on Tuesday took a dig at BJP MLA Sangeet Som for calling the Taj Mahal a "blot" on Indian culture and history. As the controversy over Som's statement on the 17th century architectural marvel, refuses to die down, Akhtar took a dig at the BJP leader saying, Sangeet Som's ignorance of history is really monumental. Will some one give him any history book that is taught in sixth standard. Sangeet Som's ignorance of history is really monumental. Will some one give him any history book that is taught in sixth standard October 17, 2017 Earlier on Monday, Som stirred a huge controversy as he questioned the Taj Mahal's place in India's heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. The BJP MLA from the Sardhana assembly constituency had said, "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from the UP tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? Whose history? The creator of the Taj Mahal (Shah Jahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out all Hindus from India. If these people are part of our history, then it is very unfortunate." Several political personalities like AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi and Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan heavily criticised Som for the comments. Meanwhile, in a damage control exercise after a BJP MLA's comments on the Taj Mahal sparked outrage, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said the famed monument in Agra was a part of Indian heritage. LUCKNOW: Days after welcoming UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath's move to build a 100-metre statue of Lord Ram, the state Shia Waqf Board now wants to gift 10 silver arrows. In a letter to the chief minister, board chairman Waseem Rizvi said the silver arrows is a token of love and admiration from Shias to Lord Ram. The arrows also symbolise India's fight with terrorism, just the way Ram annihilated monsters with his arrows, wrote Rizvi. The Shia community hopes that the India would become terror free just as Bhagwan Ram ended the terror of rakshas (monster) with his arrow, stated Rizvis letter. The Nawabs of this region always respected the temples in Ayodhya. Even the land for Hanuman Garhi in central Ayodhya was donated by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah in 1739, while the funds to construct the Hanuman Garhi temple were provided by Nawab Asif-ud-Daullah, between 1775 and 1793, claimed Rizvi. The BJP-led state government plans to build a 100-metre statue of Lord Ram on the banks of Saryu river in Ayodhya. A proposal for the same has been submitted to state Governor Ram Naik. Shia Waqf Board's decision to support the construction of Ram Mandir (temple) at the disputed site in Ayodhya had created a flutter in the Muslim community. The disputed land originally belongs to Shias and not Sunnis, they claimed. They further stated that the Mandir construction should built at a reasonable distance from 2.73 acre of disputed land. In an affidavit filed before the Supreme Court, Rizvi said the Shia board has no problem if the mosque is built at a reasonable distance from the 2.73-acre disputed land, preferably in a Muslim dominated locality in Ayodhya. The Shia Board is one of the parties Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case, which is pending in the top court since 2010. San Francisco: After a US Senator wrote to Apple CEO Tim Cook, conveying concerns on users` security with Face ID biometric security in iPhone X, Apple has responded to him, detailing Face ID`s built-in security features. In September, Senator Al Franken (Democrat-Minnesota) had asked several questions related to Apple`s implementation of the Face ID technology. Franken had asked Cook to reply to his concerns by October 13. According to a report in Appleinsider on Tuesday, Apple Vice President for Public Policy Cynthia Hogan has clarified Franken`s concerns in a letter. "Face ID confirms the presence of an attentive face (via gaze detection), projects and reads a depth map of a user`s face and sends that information to the Secure Enclave for processing. "Face ID data, which includes a mathematical representation of a user`s face, is encrypted and never leaves the device," Hogan wrote. "Data sent to the Secure Enclave is not sent to Apple or included in device backups. Further, 2D face images and corresponding depth map information captured for normal unlock operations are immediately discarded once the mathematical representation is calculated for comparison against an enrolled Face ID profile," Apple said in the letter. Franken also issued a statement regarding Apple`s response. "I appreciate Apple`s willingness to engage with my office on these issues, and I`m glad to see the steps that the company has taken to address consumer privacy and security concerns," said Franken, who is the member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology and the Law. Face ID uses `TrueDepth` camera system made up of a dot projector, infrared camera and flood illuminator, and is powered by A11 Bionic to accurately map and recognise a face. Face ID projects more than 30,000 invisible IR dots. The IR image and dot pattern are pushed through neural networks to create a mathematical model of your face and send the data to the secure enclave to confirm a match, while adapting to physical changes in appearance over time. Apple has always been reluctant to let enforcement agencies get into its hardware security technology. In 2016, Apple refused to comply with a court order after federal prosecutors tried to unlock an iPhone tied to a 2015 terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California. Srinagar: The house of a former village sarpanch and PDP leader Mohammed Ramzan Sheikh, who was killed by Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists on Monday, was set on fire in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. To the dismay of the PDP leader's family members, their house war torched by miscreants to punish them for killing one of the two militants, who had barged into his home on Monday and shot dead Sheikh. The police confirmed that a mob, mainly instigated by over ground workers of Hizbul Mujahideen, attacked Sheikh's house while his family was grieving his death. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti condemned the killing of the sarpanch and termed the incident as a dastardly attack. "It's simply inhumane. The tears of his kin had not even dried when they had to run for cover for their own lives. The family had not even condoled the death of their loved one properly before such a senseless act instigated by terrorists was perpetrated on them in less than 24 hours," Director General of state police S P Vaid said. "Tears of two small daughters and two sons may not have dried off their cheeks and they had to witness inhumanity once again. It's a shameless act," he said. Earlier, in October, terrorists shot dead a former Sarpanch in Anantnag district.. The deceased, Ghulam Rasool Ganie, was shot dead in Nambal Mattan area of Anantnag. Thiruvananthapuram: BJP president Amit Shah on Tuesday hit out at Kerala's CPI(M)-led LDF over the political violence in the state, asking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan if he was prepared to take moral responsiblity for the "killing of 13 innocent BJP/RSS workers." Addressing party workers at the Puthrikandam maidan here on the conclusion of the party's 15-day 'Jan Raksha Yatra' in the state, Shah alleged that the 13 workers were killed after the present government came to power in May last year. "I am asking the Kerala chief minister, whether he is prepared to take moral responsiblity for the killing of 13 BJP/RSS workers in the state after the LDF government came to power." "CM saheb, if you want to fight us, let us fight in terms of development and ideology," he said. Shah said if the Marxist party feels that BJP/RSS workers can be eliminated through violence even after 70 years of independence, "they are mistaken." "I will like to tell CPI(M) that it is not possible," the BJP chief said. He also asked Vijayan whether people had given him the mandate for elimination of BJP/RSS workers in the state. Earlier, Shah walked with party workers for about two km from the Martyr's column at Palayam to Putharikandam maidan, near the famous Padmanabhaswamy temple. The BJP chief waved and acknowledged greetings from thousands of BJP workers as he joined the yatra led by state party president, Kummanam Rajasekharan. He also paid tributes to party workers who had lost their lives in political violence in the state before addressing the public meeting. Shah had flagged-off the yatra at Payyannur in Kannur, the northern district of the state with a history of clashes between CPI(M) and BJP-RSS workers, on October 3. The padayatra was to highlight the 'Left's atrocities' in Kerala under the LDF government. Earlier, Rajesekharan denied allegations by the ruling CPI(M) and opposition congress that the march was to create communal divisions in the society. He also said the yatra had received 'tremendous' support from all sections of the people. Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan said the yatra was to save the people of the state. The padayatra had criss-crossed 11 districts in the state with four chief ministers, including Yogi Aditiyanath of Uttar Pradesh, senior party leaders and Union ministers taking part in the high-pitched campaign against the ruling LDF. Remarks by BJP leaders also kicked up controversies as the march progressed. Adityanath wanted Kerala to learn from UP's record in health care and Goa chief minister Manohar Parikkar alleged that Kerala was being ruled by 'rogues', triggering counter remarks from the CPI-M. Shah had skipped the march through Pinarayi, the chief minister's home town, in Kannur district, as he had to rush to Delhi for an important meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah had walked about seven km from Payyannur to Pilathara in the district during the rally. Representatives of the NDA partners in the state-- Tushar Vellapally of BDJS (Bharat Dharma Jana Sena), Tribal leader C K Janu of Janadhipathya Rashtriya Sabha, P C Thomas of Kerala Congress (Thomas) were among those who attended the public meeting. Mumbai: Ahead of Diwali 2017, employees of Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation or MSRTC went on a strike from Monday midnight, demanding a 25 per cent pay hike and implementation of 7th Pay Commission. The strike has affected several inter-state travellers, planning to visit home on the eve of Diwali or Deepavali. Commuters took to social media sharing their woes. Meanwhile, the state government issued a notification allowing private vehicles, including school buses, to ferry passengers. We have all sympathy with ST Employees but their demands for salary as per 7th Pay commission is not possible, said state transport minister Diwakar Raote on Tuesday Morning. Calling the strike illegal, he added, All courts including labour court & industrial court has held this strike as illegal. He offered to resolve the matter through dialogue talks. MSRTC union members met chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Raote on Monday, without any resolution. The government agreed to an interim hike of 10 per cent. However, union members members demanded a 25 per cent hike. The state has agreed to set up a committee to look in to the demands of the MSRTC. Lakhs of passengers are expected to be affected by the strike. Nearly 10,000 travellers ply from Mumbai and Pune daily. The state transport ferries over 65 lakh passengers everyday. On Monday morning, several travellers took to Twitter to share their woes: #msrtc please stop the strike. Dont play with common man.its festival time so undsrstnd the situation. Resolve the issue asap@Dev_Fadnavis Amol Deshmukh (@amoldeshmukh099) October 17, 2017 I am waiting for this day from last 2 months to go to home for our biggest festival Diwali and everyone at my home is waiting for me as well Rahul Goyal (@goyalrahul176) October 17, 2017 @DRaote booked shivshahi 2 tickets online. Please confirm if bus running today. 2 much inconvenience. No wonder why #msrtc is in loss. Makrand Sanap (@makrand_sanap) October 17, 2017 In the absence of states buses, few took the trains to travel. New Delhi: Women across the globe have been victims of molestation/ sexual assault at some point in their life. They have been exposed to all sorts of attack by perverts. Most women remain tight-lipped about such horrific incidents out of shock while the rest make a loud noise about it. And here's a new way of raising voice against sexual harassment - 'Me Too' has gained momentum on social media. Women all over Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other social media platforms are writing 'Me Too''. In case you don't know what this means, let us help you out! When you see a woman writing 'Me Too' it means that she has been sexually harassed, or assaulted at least once in her life. It is unfortunate to see the number of 'Me Too' statuses on social media and this is being done just to make people understand the magnitude of problem women are facing. Joining the 'Me Too' clan recently was actress-comedienn Mallika Dua. She took to Instagram to share a heart-breaking incident. Here's her Instagram post: Me too. A post shared by Mallika Dua (@mallikadua) on Oct 16, 2017 at 1:19am PDT A number of women across different age groups have been subject to sexual assault or harassment at least once in their lifetime! Indore: The cyber squad of Madhya Pradesh Police has arrested two persons of an international gang that used to make large-scale online purchases and enjoy foreign trips by using hacked information of credit cards, a senior official claimed. Superintendent of Police (SP) of State Cyber Cells Indore unit, Jitendra Singh told reporters today that two Indian members of this gang, identified as Ramkumar Pillai and Ramprasad Nadar, were arrested following a complaint made by a bank official from Agar Malwa district. The SP said both the accused are residents of Mumbai and suspected to be associated with a gang of international cyber criminals, run by Pakistani citizen Shaikh Afzal ka Shozi. He said, "We have learnt that Shozi is a native of Lahore and got married only last year. Shozi visits different countries across the world. He was in Uzbekistan when Nadar and Pillai talked to him last time through Skype. We are trying to confirm these details." Singh said members of this cyber gang purchased credit card details hacked from some websites by the dark web (secret world of internet that is notorious for illegal business). Then the gang members made purchases of air tickets and tourism packages of Bangkok, Thailand, Dubai, Hong Kong and Malaysia by using this confidential information of hacked credit cards. Simultaneously, they also made online purchases of expensive items from foreign companies, said the official. He said, "The gang members used to pay through Bitcoin (virtual and digital currency) to purchase the hacked details of credit cards on dark web. If this payment is measured in terms of Indian currency, it costs only Rs 500 to Rs 800 to buy details of every credit card. " Singh said the accused also used to send half the amount, they spent by misusing the credit card details, to Shozi by secret online methods. The accused also used to select the online e-commerce website, where they do not need a one-time password (OTP) to make a purchase. So, the holders would get the information about the misuse of credit cards only after the payment. Singh said initial investigation revealed that both the accused have made purchases of about Rs 20 lakh by misusing the details of 17 credit cards so far. However, this figure may go up after further investigation. He said that the police have been searching for a resident of Jabalpur, who is also learnt to be connected with this gang. By PTI: (Eds: Correcting typos in para 3) United Nations, Oct 17 (PTI) Fifty Indian peacekeepers stationed in South Sudan have been awarded the UN Medal for their professionalism and service in protecting civilians and building durable peace in the conflict-ridden country. The Indian peacekeepers are part of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). They are deployed with the Indian battalion stationed at Bor in the Jonglei region of South Sudan. They were presented with the award recently by UNMISS Force Commander General Frank Mushyo Kamanzi. advertisement Presenting the award, General Kamanzi acknowledged their contribution in carrying out patrols across the region as well as providing a safe and secure environment for the 2,500 civilians who have sought sanctuary at the UN Protection of Civilians site at Bor, a media release said. "I would like to thank the Indian battalion for their courage and professionalism in executing their mandate in Jonglei," said General Kamanzi. The local government in Jonglei also paid tribute to the Indian troops. The Indian battalion had played an important role in keeping the community safe as well as encouraging local peace efforts, said Agot Alier, Jonglei Acting Governor. They had also provided much-needed services to the community outside of their core mandate, such as medical care for local residents and support for local farmers with veterinary treatment for their animals, he said in a media release issued by the UN. The battalion has been intimately associated with peacekeeping efforts and the battalion has supported the mandate of the United Nations and the overall peace process, said Alier. Indian Ambassador to South Sudan, Srikumar Menon, attended the medal ceremony and thanked the peacekeepers for their commitment and service. "India is committed to the objectives of the UN Charter and therefore is ready to support the United Nations peacekeeping efforts globally," he said. PTI LKJ KUN NSA PMS --- ENDS --- London: Artificially intelligent (AI) nano-machines will be injected into humans in 20 years to be used to repair and enhance muscles, cells and bones, as well as enable us to control our environment with thought and gestures, says an IT specialist at IBM. "We may see nano-machines being injected into our bodies," John McNamara, senior inventor and IT specialist at IBM's Hursley Innovation Centre in Hampshire, UK, was quoted as saying to the Telegraph.co.uk. "These will provide huge medical benefits, such as being able to repair damage to cells, muscles and bones -- perhaps even augment them," McNamara added. McNamara said that within two decades, technology may have advanced to such a level that humans and machines are effectively "melded" together, allowing for huge leaps forward in human consciousness and cognition, raising the economic, ethical and social implications of AI. "Beyond this, utilising technology which is already being explored today, we see the creation of technology that can meld the biological with the technological and so be able to enhance human cognitive capability directly, as well as being able to utilise vast quantities of computing power to augment our own thought processes. "Using this technology, embedded in ourselves and in our surroundings, we will begin to be able to control our environment with thought and gestures alone," McNamara noted. However, in a report submitted to the House of Lords Artificial Intelligence Committee, McNamara warned that the rise of AI could bring "huge disruption" in the retail and service sectors which could spike widespread unemployment. "The immediate concern is that by ceding decisions or control to machines, the humans start accepting their decisions as correct or better than their own and stop paying attention," said Noel Sharkey, professor at the University of Sheffield, who separately shared the evidence to the committee. Frankfurt: Europe launched the sixth of its Sentinel Earth observation satellites on Friday as part of the multi-billion-euro Copernicus program to monitor volcanic ash and ultraviolet radiation. The Sentinel-5P satellite, part of a system of satellites that is to monitor Earth, blasted off on board a Rockot launcher from the Plesetsk cosmodrome in Russias north-western Arkhangelsk region at 0927 GMT. From its orbit 824 kilometers (512 miles) above Earth, it will monitor the planets atmosphere for occurrences such as volcanic ash that could put airplanes at risk or high levels of ultraviolet radiation that could cause skin damage. In addition, scientists will use Sentinel-5Ps data to understand better how holes form in Earths ozone layer. The Copernicus project is described by the European Space Agency (ESA) as the most ambitious Earth observation program to date. The European Union and the ESA have committed funding of more than 8 billion euros ($9.5 billion) to it until 2020. The launch of the Copernicus project became especially urgent after Europe lost contact with its Earth observation satellite Envisat in 2012 after 10 years. Sentinel-5P, also known as Sentinel-5 Precursor, was designed to reduce data gaps between Envisat and NASAs Aura mission and the launch of Sentinel 5. The first satellite of Europes planned Sentinel network launched in April 2014, among other to provide speedy images of land, oceans and waterways. Mumbai: Arshad Warsi, who hosted the first ever season of Bigg Boss on Indian TV, isnt apparently pleased with the show. The controversial reality show, which is into its eleventh season, is being hosted by Bollywood heavyweight Salman Khan. Bigg Boss is one the most successful programmes to be aired on Indian TV but Arshad feels that the show is down market. According to an India.com report, Warsi said, People on the show, I hear, are tacky. I havent seen this season, but Ive heard about it. The channel is attempting to boost the ratings by showcasing the things that sell. And thus, morality is taking a backseat. The Jolly.LLB actor feels that peoples taste isnt improving and they arent being served anything better. He said, People enjoy watching crass, and the channel is merely serving it. The content showcased on Indian television is regressive. The day people change their taste [in content], the narrative of the shows will also change. If the world wants to see sensible people in the house, the channel will oblige. The audience wants to see dramatic people, those who fight, hit and abuse. Inspired by English show Big Brother, Bigg Boss made its debut on Indian TV in 2006 and was subsequently hosted by Shilpa Shetty and Amitabh Bachchan. Salman has been associated with the show since the fourth season. Talking about the original concept of the show, Warsi said, The concept back then was to understand the psyche of people and notice the developments that occur when they are made to reside in a house, isolated from the world. No one wanted to cause any trouble. There was no nudity or violence demanded in the clause. When you meet new individuals, you can be cordial for a week. Then, you discover their traits. When good behaviour wears out, the dynamics change. It takes time for people to reach that stage. But, now the channel wants immediate TRP success, so they are consciously sending nutcases into the house, Warsi added. Ghaziabad: Former Congress MLA Amar Pal Sharma, wanted for the killing of a BJP leader, surrendered in a court here on Tuesday, police said. Sharma, who once represented Sahibabad constituency in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, gave himself up after the police announced a reward of Rs 25,000 on his head. They also obtained a court order to attach his assets. Earlier, the police had arrested a contract killer who killed the BJP leader, Gajendra Bhati, in Khoda locality bordering Delhi after allegedly striking a deal for Rs 10 lakh. The criminal told police that he killed Bhati at Sharma`s behest. Sharma has now been sent to the Dasna Jail, Ghaziabad`s Senior Superintendent of Police H.N. Singh said. Lucknow: Days after Akhilesh Yadav was elected president of the Samajwadi Party for the next five years, a new list released by the party has no mention of the names of party veterans Mulayam Singh Yadav and Shivpal Singh Yadav. According to reports, SP principal general secretary Ram Gopal Yadav had on Monday released the list of 55-member national executive, which is headed by party chief Akhilesh Yadav. However, the names of SP patron Mulayam and his brother Shivpal were missing from it. This led to confusion among the party workers who wanted to know whether the SP founder, Mulayam Singh Yadav, will remain its patron. Reacting to it, SP spokesperson Rajendra Chowdhury said that he was not aware of any such post. The party constitution does not have any provision for such a post. I am not aware whether he is the patron or not," the SP spokesperson was quoted as saying by PTI. The SP patriarch was made the party patron after a bitter feud in the Yadav clan climaxed with his son Akhilesh Yadav snatching the mantle of the party president from him at an emergency national convention here on January 1. As per the list released by SP principal general secretary Ram Gopal Yadav, Kironmay Nanda has been retained as the party's national vice president. The executive has 10 general secretaries, including Azam Khan, Naresh Agarwal and Indrajeet Saroj, 10 secretaries, 25 members including Jaya Bachchan and six special invitees. The party has retained Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Seth as its treasurer. Seth is a builder considered close to Mulayam Singh Yadav. Lucknow: Amid the Taj Mahal controversy, Uttar Pradesh Shia Waqf Board chairman Waseem Rizvi on Tuesday accused the majority of the Mughal rulers of being aiyaash. Expressing his views on the ongoing controversy, Rizvi said, Taj Mahal can be symbol of love but not of worship, adding that besides a couple of Mughal emperors, majority was habitual of living a 'flamboyant lifetsyle'. Commenting on UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath's move to build a 100-metre statue of Lord Ram, the Shia Waqf Board chairman said, No one opposed when Mayawati built her own statues, so why an issue is being created over Ram statue. Earlier on Monday, BJP MLA Sangeet Som stirred a huge controversy as he questioned the 17th century architectural marvel's place in India's heritage and said history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. Som's comments during a visit to Meerut district prompted an angry response from All India Majlis-e- Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader Asaduddin Owaisi and Samajwadi party leader Azam Khan. In an attempt to water down the controversy over the Taj Mahal, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said that what mattered is that the monument is a result of the hardwork put in by Indian labourers. Adityanath is also scheduled to visit the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri and other important monuments in Agra on October 26, an official told IANS. Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday put a stay on the removal of central forces from Darjeeling. The decision was taken after the West Bengal had moved court seeking a stay on the same. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had even written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh claiming that the withdrawal of forces was "politically and administratively a bad decision." The MHA had on Sunday reportedly ordered the withdrawal of 10 of the 15 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies deployed in the hills so that they could be used for duty in other places for the festival season. State BJP chief Dilip Ghosh had earlier said that during his visit to the hills, he had seen CRPF personnel being used to give protection to IPS officers and guard the residence of rebel Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) leader Binoy Tamang. KHOST: A suicide and gun attack on a police training centre in southeast Afghanistan on Tuesday has killed at least 15 people and wounded more than 40, a hospital official said. Among those killed inclued Paktia police chief Toryalai Abdyani. The victims include "women, students and police", Hedayatullah Hamidi, public health director in Gardez, the capital of Paktia province, told AFP. Suicide bombers and gunmen launched an attack on a police training centre in southeastern Afghanistan on Tuesday, officials said, in the latest violence to rock the war-torn country. The Taliban claimed responsibility in a tweet for the ongoing attack at the centre in Gardiz, capital of Paktia province, which borders Pakistan. "At first a suicide bomber detonated a car filled with explosives near the training centre, making way for a number of attackers to start their assault", the interior ministry said in a statement. A battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces was under way inside the centre which is located near the Paktia police headquarters, according to the interior ministry statement. A local official said two car bombs blew up near the compound that also houses the provincial headquarters of the national police, border police and Afghan National Army. "A group of gunmen have entered the compound and fighting is ongoing," Allah Mir Bahram, a member of the Paktia provincial council, told AFP. Beirut: Syria`s war has spiralled into a complex multi-sided conflict since it began with anti-government protests in March 2011, drawing in regional and international powers including the United States and Russia. Here is a breakdown of the forces involved in the war, which has killed more than 330,000 people: Syria`s 300,000-strong pre-war army has been halved by deaths, defections and draft-dodging. It is bolstered by up to 200,000 irregulars and as many as 8,000 men from Lebanon`s Shiite Hezbollah movement as well as by Iranian, Iraqi and Afghan fighters. Regime backer Russia began an air campaign in support of President Bashar al-Assad in September 2015, helping Damascus recapture key areas including second city Aleppo. Iran has also given Assad major financial and military support. The Syrian government now holds around half of the country, including major cities Damascus, Aleppo, Homs and Hama, and two-thirds of the population lives in regime-held areas. Syria`s opposition comprises multiple factions including moderate rebels and Islamist groups. Estimates of total opposition forces have ranged from tens of thousands to around 100,000, though their ranks have shrunk as the government has retaken territory. Early in the uprising, rebels coalesced under the banner of the Free Syrian Army (FSA), but the opposition has since splintered. One of the most powerful factions was Ahrar al-Sham, a hardline Islamist group that was once a strong presence in Idlib province. In July, the group was ousted from most of the province by a jihadist coalition led by their former ally Tahrir al-Sham. Another leading Islamist rebel group, Jaish al-Islam (Army of Islam), is active around Damascus. Rebels who once controlled large areas now hold only around 12 percent of the country, according to Syrian geography expert Fabrice Balanche. That includes areas now held by the jihadist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a coalition essentially composed of al Qaeda`s former affiliate. Around 15 percent of Syria`s population lives in rebel-held territory. Two major rival jihadist forces operate in Syria: the Islamic State group and former Qaeda affiliate Fateh al-Sham Front. IS emerged from wars in Syria and Iraq to seize swathes of both countries in mid-2014. It declared an Islamic "caliphate", committed widespread atrocities and carried out or inspired deadly attacks around the world. Since then, IS has suffered major losses under pressure from a US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters, as well as Russian-backed regime offensives. By early September, IS held 15 percent of Syria, less than half what it had held at the beginning of 2017. On October 17, the group was ousted from its last footholds in its de facto Syrian capital Raqa by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Fateh al-Sham Front split in July 2016 from Qaeda and later formed the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham jihadist coalition that controls most of Idlib. Syria`s Kurds have largely avoided the conflict between the government and armed opposition, carving out a semi-autonomous region in northern and northeastern Syria. Their People`s Protection Units (YPG) militia became a key partner of the US-led coalition fighting IS and forms the backbone of the SDF, an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters. The YPG controls about 23 percent of Syrian territory but some three-quarters of the northern border with Turkey. Nearly 15 percent of Syria`s population lives under Kurdish rule. Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey have provided military and financial support to rebels fighting Assad, who belongs to the minority Alawite sect linked to Shiite Islam. Long accused of turning a blind eye to jihadist activity along its southern border, Turkey has joined the US-led coalition fighting IS and deployed troops to battle the group in northern Syria. It launched an offensive into Syria in August 2016 against both IS and the YPG, which Ankara regards as the Syrian branch of the Kurdistan Workers` Party (PKK) which has waged a 33-year insurrection inside Turkey. Although they support opposing sides, Ankara and Moscow have worked closely in recent months to reach a political solution to the conflict and agreed to set up four "de-escalation zones" around the country. On October 8, Turkey announced a new military operation by pro-Ankara rebels to push out the jihadists controlling the northwestern Idlib province. Turkey`s army then began setting up "observation posts" in the region on October 12 as part of the safe zone deal with Moscow. A US-led coalition has targeted IS and other jihadists in Syria with air strikes since 2014. The coalition includes Britain, France, Saudi Arabia and Turkey along with Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates. It is a key backer of the SDF advance on Raqa, and is supporting the militia in an operation against IS in neighbouring Deir Ezzor province. FLORIDA: Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency on Monday ahead of a speech by a white nationalist leader later this week at the University of Florida, in order to free up resources to prepare for possible violence. Rallies by neo-Nazis and white nationalists in Charlottesville, Virginia, in August led to violent street clashes with counter-protesters. After the melee, as counter-protesters were dispersing, a 20-year-old man who is said by law enforcement to have harbored Nazi sympathies smashed his car into the crowd, killing a 32-year-old woman. "This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe," Scott said in a statement. Scott said in the order there was a need to implement a coordinated security plan among local and state agencies before the speech by Richard Spencer on Thursday in Gainesville. Spencer heads a white nationalist group University of Florida officials were not immediately available for comment. Local media reports said the school was threatened with a lawsuit if it tried to block Spencer. The Orlando Sentinel newspaper quoted Spencer as saying the emergency declaration was "flattering" but "most likely overkill." In a video message this week, University of Florida President Kent Fuchs told students to stay away, deny Spencer attention and ignore his "message of hate." "The values of our universities are not shared by Mr. Spencer. Our campuses are places where people from all races, origins and religions are welcome and treated with love," he said, adding he was required by law to allow him speak. "We refuse to be defined by this event. We will overcome this external threat to our campus and our values," Fuchs said. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Tuesday ordered a fresh probe into the death of an eleven-year-old Simdega girl after local activists alleged that she died of starvation. By Press Trust of India: Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Tuesday ordered a fresh probe into the death of an eleven-year-old Simdega girl after local activists alleged that she died of starvation. The chief minister has directed the Simdega deputy commissioner to submit the report by Wednesday. The activists alleged that the girl died a fortnight ago after going without food for several days. They said her family's ration card was cancelled for not being linked to the Aadhaar number. advertisement Her mother Koeli Devi also said that the family had been starving for days. "We were denied ration by local public distribution shop as our card was not linked to the Aadhaar number", she said. Simdega Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri had informed Das that a three-member team, comprising civil surgeon and district supply officer, was constituted on October 6 to examine the case following reports of her death in local media. The team then had found out that the girl died of malaria, Bhajantri said. Das, however, asked the deputy commissioner today to supervise and carry out another investigation into the case. Meanwhile, according to an official release, the chief minister on Tuesday announced Rs 50,000 as assistance to the girl's family. --- ENDS --- United Nations: North Korea has warned that a nuclear war may break out at any time as the situation on the Korean peninsula has reached the "touch-and-go point". According to media reports, North Korea's deputy UN ambassador Kim In-ryong told the UN general assembly's disarmament committee that Pyongyang has the right to possess defense nuclear weapons. He said North Korea is the only country in the world that has been subjected to "such an extreme and direct nuclear threat" from the United States since the 1970s. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Sunday asserted that his diplomatic efforts to relax tensed relations with North Korea will continue "until the first bomb drops". Tillerson averred that United States President Donald Trump has instructed him to try and reduce stress between the two nations through diplomatic efforts. North Korea had recently called on its citizens to be ready for a nation-wide struggle against "war thirsty" US President Donald Trump and his "gangster-like moves for domination and aggression." "The US gangster-like moves for domination, subjugation, aggression and war are getting even more reckless and dangerous in the wake of the frenzy of war thirsty (US President Donald) Trump who spat out the remarks of 'total destruction of North Korea' without hesitation," state-run KCNA agency quoted a spokesman for the National Peace Committee of North Korea as saying. The tension between the two nuclear power countries have intensified as North Korea continues to develop and threaten the use of its nuclear weapons. Trump on the other hand has issued sanctions to completely isolate Pyongyang if it continues to test its ballistic missiles. Beirut: The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters who captured Raqa city from the Islamic State group on Tuesday was formed in October 2015. The SDF has since emerged as a key force fighting IS in northern Syria, and is the main ground force partnered with the US-led coalition against the jihadist group. The SDF is made up of Kurds, Arab Muslims and Christians who have joined forces to battle IS. The alliance includes an estimated 30,000 fighters -- some 25,000 Kurds and 5,000 Arabs. Its backbone is the Syrian Kurdish People`s Protection Units (YPG), which had already dealt IS several defeats including the capture of the key border town of Tal Abyad. Along with the all-female Kurdish Women`s Protection Units, the SDF includes Arab factions, Syriac Christian fighters and Turkmen units. After the US-led coalition launched its first air strikes against IS in Syria in September 2014, Washington struggled to find a reliable partner on the ground. A much-touted $500-million programme to build a rebel army to fight IS collapsed after many candidates failed the screening process and one group surrendered equipment to an Al-Qaeda affiliate. After the SDF was formed, the White House announced the first sustained deployment of US special forces to Syria, reversing a longstanding refusal to put boots on the ground. Around 50 special operations personnel were deployed in northern Syria, and the number has now grown to around 500 US troops. Senior US commanders and Washington`s envoy to the coalition Brett McGurk have met top SDF chiefs during visits to northern Syria. Washington said in June it would supply weapons directly to the YPG despite objections from ally Turkey, which sees Kurdish ambitions in Syria as a threat to its own security. In November 2016, the SDF announced its operation "Wrath of the Euphrates" aimed at ousting IS from Raqa province, including the group`s de facto Syrian capital Raqa. In the months that followed, the alliance gradually closed in on the city, first sweeping into territory to the north before closing in from the east and west. One key challenge was the battle for the town of Tabqa and the neighbouring dam, around 40 kilometres (25 miles) west of Raqa. That operation began in late March, when US forces airlifted SDF troops behind IS lines. Subsequent heavy fighting raised fears for Tabqa`s vast dam, which the SDF eventually seized along with the town on May 10, severing a key IS route out of Raqa. In early June, SDF forces entered Raqa for the first time, penetrating its Old City a month later after air strikes by the US-led coalition smashed two holes in the ramparts. On September 1, the group announced it had ousted IS from the historic district, bringing it closer than ever to the jihadists` best-defended positions. By late September, SDF forces had taken control of 90 percent of the city, cornering IS fighters in Raqa`s stadium, a few surrounding buildings and a major hospital. On October 17, SDF spokesman Talal Sello told AFP the US-backed fighters finally had "taken full control of Raqa" from IS. Ankara considers the YPG a "terrorist" group, an offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers` Party (PKK) that has waged an insurgency inside Turkey since 1984. Turkey launched an operation inside Syria on August 2016 alongside allied opposition forces and managed to retake the IS stronghold of Jarabulus and the symbolically important town of Dabiq. The operation also sought to check advances by Syrian Kurds, and Turkish forces have carried out air strikes against YPG positions. But Ankara failed to convince Washington to hold off on the Raqa operation and find an alternative partner on the ground. It reacted with fury to Washington`s decision to arm the YPG, despite US assurances that the weapons supplies would be limited and monitored. PARIS: Bangladesh has announced plans to build a refugee camp that could accommodate around 800,000 Rohingya Muslims pouring over the border from Myanmar. The camp would be the largest in the world and has raised concerns about the risks of concentrating vulnerable people, such as the spread of disease. Around 550,000 Rohingya have fled communal bloodshed in Myanmar since the latest violence began in August 25. While some have joined the roughly 33,000 fellow Rohingya living in the official camps of Kutupalong and Nayapara since the 1990s, most have set up alongside hundreds of thousands more already living in makeshift camps and villages outside those settlements. The UN`s refugee agency estimates there are an unprecedented 65.5 million refugees in the world today, split between urban centres or informal settlements, and more formal camps. Here are some of the largest of these camps, based on UN figures.This vast settlement in far northern Uganda has sprung up over the past year as people flood out of South Sudan, fleeing civil war and severe food shortages. A village in the Yumbe district on the South Sudan border, Bidibidi became a refugee settlement in August 2016 and now hosts nearly 285,000 people, according to figures from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Uganda hosts more than half of the nearly two million South Sudanese who have fled their country since war erupted in 2013. The Adjumani district in the same border area of Uganda contains many further camps and settlements where there are together about 233,000 more South Sudanese.The sprawling Dadaab complex 100 kilometres (60 miles) from Kenya`s border with Somalia has housed Somali refugees for around 26 years. The majority fled the outbreak of civil war in Somalia 1991 and many never returned, going on to have children and grandchildren. Dadaab is made up of four camps, some of which have come to resemble towns, but is considered a single area. There were about 239,500 people in Dadaab at the end of September, according to UN figures. The population peaked at around 485,000 in 2012 following a new influx after famine in Somalia. A voluntary repatriation programme is helping some to return. The Kenyan government decided last year to close Dadaab, about 450 kilometres northeast of the capital Nairobi, saying it was a training ground for Shabaab Islamist militants from Somalia. The decision was overturned by Kenya`s High Court on the grounds that it violated the country`s international obligations and amounted to the persecution of refugees.This camp on the outskirts of the town of the same name in northwestern Kenya was established in 1992 following the arrival of thousands of people fleeing from southern Sudan during the 1983-2005 war. Many were young boys who risked being forced into combat. The camp also took in some of the hundreds of thousands of Ethiopians who fled around the fall of the military government in 1991. About half of the refugees there today are from South Sudan and a quarter from Somalia, with those from Ethiopia down to under four percent.Just 37 kilometres from the border with Burundi, this camp was opened in November 1996 to host people fleeing conflict in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo. Tens of thousands of Burundians arrived in 2015 when their country plunged into crisis after President Pierre Nkurunziza sought a fiercely contested third term. Burundians now account for around 47 percent of the camp`s population. Tanzania hosts around 60 percent of the 410,00. By Shweta Keshri: Kaun Banega Crorepati 9 is celebrating Diwali special week and this week's first contestant was Neha Namdev from Chhabra, Rajasthan. Neha, a teacher by profession is the first girl to get a government job in her family and community. Her school is located in a village, which is more than five kilometres away from Chhabra and has a total of 35 kids. advertisement The school has just two rooms out of which one is used to cook mid-day meal and the other for taking classes. She said that she concentrates more on girls, as they don't get the required support from their families. She also talked about the reluctance of their parents to send them to school who instead wanted them to be involved in household chores like taking care of the live stock, cleaning and washing. Neha, who played with a lot of confidence also revealed that due to financial constraints she couldn't pursue engineering and got emotional while narrating her story. Neha answered 13 questions correctly and won Rs 25 lakh on the show. Her dream is to make her own house, as she believes that neither the sasural (in-laws' house) nor the maykaa (parents' house) belongs to a girl. Neha's confidence and thought process proves that one doesn't need be educated in a premier institute to be progressive in their thoughts, conviction and self-confidence can take you a long way. --- ENDS --- The first is that this whole negotiation with Iran was an unnecessary farce to begin with. Vilayet-al-faqih Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was issuing fatwas against the building of nuclear weapons as far back as the G.W. Bush admin. Pres Bush even accepted two official National Intelligence Estimates (NIEs) that declared that Iran was not actively pursuing a nuclear weapons program. He did it twice. The fatwas by Khomeini were the ultimate reason why these hard fought and deeply studied NIEs came forth, representing after all a consensus of every one of 17 plus US intelligence agencies, who have a wide variety of perspectives, some of them almost insanely hawkish. But twice during the G.W. Bush presidency they came together to make this super official certification: Iran did not have an active nuclear weapons program, even though it had one earlier, one that dated back to the Eisenhower admin when the US supported their program under the Shah. But, the bottom line is that while Khamenei is alive, there will be no Iranian nuclear program. In the face of way more to say than I shall here, let me point out odd items most will not. So one of those is a positive. Even if the Congress fails to do what is right and reasonable and keeps the deal going, probably Iran will not pursue an active nuclear weapons acquisition program. There are two reasons for this, which could easily be undone if Trump continues to insanely go after them. I wish to be very precise here on this extremely important matter. President Trump has not decertified the JCPOA Iran nuclear deal. Now Congress must ultimately be responsible. He has, after a lot of discussion and intervention by his national security team, failed to certify the deal. This is not something that was part of the deal, but an epiphenomenon put in place by the US Congrees as part of a deal agreed to by former President Obama to get the deal through, a matter of every 90 days the US president certifying that Iran is complying with the agreement. Two times running, President Trump certified it, confronted by the hard fact that Iran has been complying with the deal according to every official body in the world. But, he has said he would not certify it, and reportedly he has blown up over this matter with screaming fits his c. So his NatSec team has cooked up this partial save: OK, boy, fail to certify, putting it on Congress to really undo the deal. What this means is that ultimately Obamas massive effort to negotiate a halt to the nonexistent Iranian nuclear program was ultimately a worthless empty exercise, much as I have on occasion praised it. I mean, it was a noble and heroic and difficult effort, Obama supported John Kerry in getting the Russians and the Chinese, as well as the EU and other obvious US allies, to go along with economic sanctions, which actually had an effect, given that Iran is actually a semi-democratic regime, so that even the hardliners associated with Khameini went along and agreed. And beyond Iran, it was a big deal, the UN officially supporting it along with the Russia, China, UK, France, Germany, and the UN Security Council (oh, sorry, a part of the UN), as well as most of the rest of the world, aside from a handful of countries (not to be listed, although in most cases their intel/military support it). The second is that even given this nonexistent fact that Iran was pursuing a nuclear weapons program, which all the US intel agencies said was the case, and Iran has been in full compliance with the JCPOA agreement as agreed by all observers, including even the senior US officials such as SecDef Mattis before a Congressional committee, Trumps and a few Israeli officials plus some from Saudi Arabia and a few others,Iran has been in full compliance with the agreement. If Trump insists on ending the agreent, he will have only the support of Israel and Saudi Arabia and a few of its immediate neighbors. Addendum: It would appear that to the extent Trump is even thinking, what he (and those in Israel and Saudi Arabia who support this nonsense) want is regime change in Iran. It is not good enough to have a relatively moderate Islamist government that obeys a treaty that limits its nuclear program, which was not directed at weapons in the first place anyway. In this regard they resemble the wildly messed up views of George W. Bush regarding both North Korea and Iraq. I have posted here on this before, but it remains not widely known, that North Korea was not in violation of the nuclear agreement with it when the WBush admin went after them on the matter. Just as there is nothing in the JCPOA about missiles, there was nothing in the 1994 agreement about uranium enrichment, although most Americans believe the North Koreans were in violation of 1994 due to their enriching uranium. It was about plutonium, and they were following the agreement on that when WBush told South Koreas leader in March, 2001, to forget about the peace process, which Colin Powell supported, but the neocon hawks led by Cheney and Rumsfeld did not. They wanted to pull a Soviet Union a la Reagan and Bush Senior: regime change. That has not happened and now the North Koreans have nuclear weapons. Imitating this nonsense, Trump is in danger of getting the same outcome, although we can hope that Khameini keeps his fatwas in place at least for awhile. As it is, while not pursuing a nuclear weapons program and opening to the world seems to be popular in Iran as expressed in their semi-free elections that reelected the government that negotiated the JCPOA, the Green Movement does support civilian nuclear power and also Iran maintaining a reasonably strong military to protect against unfriendly neighbors such as the Saudis, whose current leader has openly talked of war against and even in Iran. So, getting them to stop testing missiles and so on is not a likely outcome from any popularly elected government in Iran. If we brought back the Shah, well, maybe, but he is dead, and I doubt the Iranians would accept his son as a leader. In Iraq, there was a majority ready to take over when semi-democracy was put in place after the US invaded under WBush and overthrew the Saddam dictatorship. Unfortunately, as the then Saudi leadership warned, who convinced Bush Sr. not to go all the way to Baghdad after throwing Saddam out of Kuwait, that majority is Shia and friendly to Iran. So, now Iraq is ruled by people friendly to our supposed super enemy, Iran, and their role in Iraq is one of those things that the Israelis and Saudis are unhappy about, along with their supposed role in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, and some other places. Bottom line is that if WBush had not dumped the Korean peace negotiations and invaded Iraq, our current president would probably be dealing with a less difficult situation in the Persian Gulf and maybe not even be facing a nuclear weapons armed North Korea. But our current president seems bent on doing his best to make sure that future presidents will have to deal with both a nuclear armed North Korea (no way they are giving those babies up, even if Kim Jong Un is overthrown) and a nuclear armed Iran, not to mention a world that simply mistrusts US leaders and has not interest in any diplomatic negotiations with the US about anything. Barkley Rosser YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. The fact of the meeting of Armenian and Azerbaijani presidents is already welcoming, Stanislav Tarasov Russian expert in Middle East and Caucasus affairs, told Armenpress commenting on the October 16 meeting of Presidents Serzh Sargsyan and Ilham Aliyev in Geneva. The sides should maintain the format of the negotiation process which will reduce the risk of military confrontation. I can say this about the meeting since little information is available. Usually during such level meetings either the agenda is known or there is an information flow on what issues can be discussed which enables the analysts to make comments. In this case before the meeting contradictory statement were made. In particular, president Aliyev said Armenia has accepted certain preconditions, but he didnt mention what preconditions the talk is about. Armenia highlights the Vienna and St. Petersburg agreements. The Co-Chairs in their turn talk about a document the details of which are being discussed. Thus, its difficult to make a comment on the background of these contradictory statements, Stanislav Tarasov said. Commenting on the border security issues, the expert said its easy to talk about these issues, but for that it is necessary to accept the Vienna and St. Petersburg agreements, in particular, installing control mechanisms in the border. As we saw Azerbaijan doesnt accept these agreements, it even doesnt want to discuss that topic. Its difficult to say whether this time it will accept those agreements, but I, frankly, have doubts, Stanislav Tarasov said. At the initiative of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, the meeting between the Armenian and Azerbaijani Presidents was held at the residence of the Swiss permanent representative in the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva on October 16. The foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan and the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs issued a joint statement based on the negotiation results. They stated that the meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere. As a result of negotiations the Presidents agreed to take measures to intensify the negotiation process and take additional steps to reduce tension in the line of contact. The Co-Chairs expressed their satisfaction with these direct talks, which took place after a long interval. They remain ready to work with the sides on mediating a peacefully negotiated settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Kerala government's public relations department has issued a circular banning the use of words 'Dalits' and 'Harijans'. By P S Gopikrishnan Unnithan: Kerala government's public relations department has issued a circular banning the use of words 'Dalits' and 'Harijans'. The Information & Public Relations department issued notice citing a recommendation from the state SC/ST commission. The circular restricts the use of such words from government publications, official communications of the government and publicity materials. The department's move came amid the on going discussion between the government and other departments regarding the use of these words. The circular has recommended the use of words SC and ST instead of Dalits/ Harijans. advertisement The sources in the SC/ST commission said that the recommendation has been made to put an end to the social discrimination that still prevails at various levels in the society. The Dalit activists have however responded that the move by the government is unacceptable as words like Dalit give the people a socio-political identity. "Why would the government want to interfere in such things", asked a Dalit activist. The state government is expected to take up this issue seriously. A final order in this regard will be issued only after a detailed discussion with people from all walks of life, said a source close to the concerned department. --- ENDS --- YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Armenian ministry of emergency situations informs that on October 17, as of 11:00, all roads are passable in Armenia, reports Armenpress. According to the information by the emergency situations department of the Georgian interior ministry, the Stepantsminda-Lars highway is open for passenger vehicles, but is closed for trucks. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan congratulated Sooronbay Jeenbekov on being elected as President of Kyrgyzstan. In a congratulatory message, President Sargsyan wished his Kyrgyz counterpart success and prosperity in the responsible activity as leader of the state, and to the good people of Kyrgyzstan peace and prosperity. I would like to reiterate our interest in further developing the friendly and mutually beneficial Armenian-Kyrgyz relations, the Armenian president said. The good traditions of friendship and mutual respect of the Armenian and Kyrgyz peoples serve as a solid foundation for expanding political dialogue between our states, realizing mutually beneficial economic and cultural-humanitarian programs, and growth of partnership on the sidelines of CSTO, EEU, CIS and other multilateral unions, President Serzh Sargsyan said. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Armenias finance minister Vardan Aramyan had a meeting in Washington with high level representatives of the World Bank and the IMF on the sidelines of the annual meetings of the two organizations. The Armenian delegation included Vice-PM Vache Gabrielyan, Central Bank president Arthur Javadyan and other officials. The delegation namely met with WB Vice President Cyril Muller and WB Executive Director for Dutch Constituency Frank Heemskerk. The meetings focused on the timeline of the Country Partnership Circle document preparation, the appropriateness issue of using the Development Policy Tool in 2018 and further joint steps for realizing the Debt for Nature Protection program. Meetings also took place with IMF Executive Director Anthony De Lannoy and Middle East and Central Asia Department Director Jihad Azour. The sides discussed the possible proposal on implementing a new program within the framework of the IMF External Fund Facility tool. The sides agreed to continue joint efforts on revising Armenian fiscal rules, also in terms of involving new technical assistance from the IMF. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Minister of energy infrastructures and natural resources Ashot Manukyan received the delegation led by German Ambassador to Armenia Matthias Kiesler, press service of the ministry told Armenpress. Issues relating to the financing of several investment programs in energy and water industry fields were discussed. By attaching importance to the role of the German government and KFW bank in the development, equipment and modernization of Armenias energy field, minister Manukyan touched upon the construction programs of Armenia-Georgia high-voltage air line and Kaps reservoir. Highlighting their significance for Armenias economy, the minister presented the governments plan in connection with these programs. In order to reduce the pressure on the state debt the government intends to implement certain loan programs ensuring self-financing through the cooperation with public-private sector, Ashot Manukyan said. During the meeting the minister answered to questions of the participants, presented in-detail the ways for implementing the abovementioned programs and the expected funding mechanisms. The sides agreed to continue the discussions in future to clarify certain issues linked with the programs. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Vice Speaker of the Armenian Parliament Arpine Hovhannisyan on October 17 held a meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to Armenia John Ronald Kur, press service of the Parliament told Armenpress. Arpine Hovhannisyan said the Armenian-Canadian relations are dynamically developing, the two countries have the best traditions of friendship and cooperation. In this context she highlighted the importance of developing inter-parliamentary ties, as well as the active mutual partnership of friendship groups. The Canadian Ambassador expressed readiness to contribute to further deepening the Armenian-Canadian parliamentary ties and intensifying mutual visits. According to him this year is unique since it marks the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties between Armenia and Canada. The meeting also touched upon the upcoming Francophonie summit to be held in Armenia in 2018. The sides attached importance to the cooperation in fight against corruption, in the fields of new information technologies and etc. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. During the session of NATOs parliamentary assembly numerous European lawmakers expressed concern over Turkeys purchase of S-400 missile systems from Russia, Koryun Nahapetyan head of the Armenian delegation at NATO PA, told reporters, reports Armenpress. Parliamentarians of different European countries were deeply concerned that Turkey, being a NATO member, acquires S-400 missile systems from Russia. During the session of defense and security committee, the delegates of the Netherlands and the Great Britain in particular expressed their deep concern over the case, Nahapetyan said. The MP said during the plenary session NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg touched upon this topic whose response was quite moderate. He stated that any member state of NATO decides what additional tools are necessary for its defense system. Stoltenberg said these systems are not in NATOs air and missile defense systems without any critical points in his remarks. But I want to repeat that many European delegates expressed their deep concern over Turkeys purchase of S-400 systems, Nahapetyan said. NATO PAs session was held in Bucharest on October 6-9. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov hopes that the growing trends towards self-determination will not bring turmoil to Europe, TASS reports. I do not know the future consequences of the self-determination trend in Europe, the minister said in an interview with the website of the Valdai Discussion Club. "I really hope that this will not lead to any shocks in Europe, he added. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Vache Gabrielyan Vice Prime Minister of Armenia, Minister of International Economic Integration and Reforms, met with Governor of California Jerry Brown in the US city of San Francisco on October 16, press service of the government told Armenpress. During the meeting a number of issues relating to the opportunities to deepen the bilateral commercial ties in investments, renewable energy, as well as education and science spheres were discussed. The sides agreed to launch the process of signing a framework agreement on cooperation between Armenia and California. Governor Jerry Brown welcomed joining of Armenias Ararat, Kotayk and Shirak provinces to the Global Climate Change Management Memorandum of Understanding. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Koryun Nahapetyan chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on defense and security, positively assesses the results of the meeting between the Armenian and Azerbaijani presidents in Geneva. Koryun Nahapetyan told ARMENPRESS that in previous interviews he said he has no great expectations from the meeting, but added that the results achieved during the meeting can serve as a good base for ensuring certain progress in the future. I think taking additional steps for easing tension in the line of contact must have a great affect in near future. You know there is a great tension in the line of contact. Our expectation that the Azerbaijani side must take measures for easing that tension was reflected in the last statement issued by the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs. In this sense, of course, the meeting results can be considered as positive, Nahapetyan said. Commenting on the fact that Azerbaijan has constantly violated the agreements reached during the negotiations, and there is no guarantee that this time it will not take that step, Koryun Nahapetyan said: First of all it is very important to reach certain agreements. This is not being done easily. This means that both the mediators and the respective agencies of the sides carried out a great work. As a first step, of course, it is necessary to reach an agreement. The second most important step is the maintenance of these agreements. The Armenian side completely implements its commitments, but life showed that the Azerbaijani side can announce something and do completely other thing. The lawmaker said the international community and especially the Minsk Group Co-Chairs must be consistent in the implementation of these agreements. If there is an agreement to take measures to reduce tension in the line of contact, we should see in near future what actions have been made on this path, he said. At the initiative of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, the meeting between the Armenian and Azerbaijani Presidents was held at the residence of the Swiss permanent representative in the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva on October 16. The meeting was attended by Armenian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers Edward Nalbandian and Elmar Mammadyarov, as well as the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group Igor Popov (Russia), Stephane Visconti (France), Andrew Schofer (USA) and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk. The meeting was followed by a private meeting of Presidents Serzh Sargsyan and Ilham Aliyev. BEIJING, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. The 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China , which will be held October 18, has vital significance for the country, because the path of China for the upcoming five years depends on it, spokesman of the congress Tuo Zhen said during a press conference in the Chinese Parliament, ARMENPRESS correspondent reports from Beijing. This congress will form the main directions and principles of actions and policy to remain committed to the requirements of the given time. It will specify the strategic programs and upcoming steps of the party and the country, he said. The speaker said that the congress agenda was clarified in the morning of October 17 during a preparation meeting. The agenda includes the discussion and adoption of reforms in the constitution of the communist party and the selection of the 19th central committee and the 19th central commission for Discipline Inspection. The party will elect a General Secretary during the congress, a position currently held by Xi Jinping the President of China. Tuo Zhen said preparations for the 19th Congress began since October of 2016. He emphasized that this time the number of women and ethnic minorities was increased among the 2280 delegates, with representatives of 43 different ethnic groups included. Araks Kasyan The Jan Raksha Yatra was launched by BJP as an all out war against the ruling left front in Kerala. The slogan of the yatra was 'Every one Should live' - Jan Raksha Yatra against 'Red & Jihadi Terror'. By P S Gopikrishnan Unnithan, Jeemon Jacob: The state wide march by BJP has finally come to an end in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. It's been a very long journey for the saffron leaders in the state covering almost 500 Kms in 14 days. Party state Chief Kummanam Rajashekharan, who lead the yatra will have reasons to cheer despite a few setbacks. While the overwhelming support for the yatra in many centres including Thiruvananthapuram is seen as a positive sign, the Vengara by election result and other controversies will have to be addressed by the leaders in the days to come. advertisement The two-week long Kerala march was kicked off on October 3, by Amit Shah from the political hot bed of Kerala - Kannur. The Jan Raksha Yatra was launched by BJP as an all out war against the ruling left front in Kerala. The slogan of the yatra was 'Every one Should live' - Jan Raksha Yatra against 'Red & Jihadi Terror'. "BJP initiated Jan Raksha Yatra in Kerala to end CPIM violence and brutal killings of BJP/RSS workers in the state. We will continue our efforts, legally to bring the real culprits who engineered brutal killings of our workers before law. The mega success of yatra had upset CM of Kerala who is responsible for the unending violence against BJP workers," Amit Shah warned. The yatra started off in great fashion with BJP heavy weights conducting 4-day padyatra in various places of Kannur. While Amit Shah and Yogi Adithtyanath lead the yatra on first two days respectively, all eyes were on the third day. According to schedule, Amit Shah and other national leaders were to lead the yatra in Pinarayi, the constituency of Kerala Chief Minister. However, party chief's last minute back out owing to some urgent meeting with the PM came as huge setback for the state leadership. After the 4-day programme in Kannur, the yatra moved to other districts covering each centre a day. They received overwhelming response in Kozhikode and Palakkad. The march also touched upon Malappuram which was heading into a crucial by election in Vengara constituency. However, the yatra lost its steam midway after allegations against Jay Shah's shady corporate deals exposure and face losing defeat Vengara bypoll in which BJP came in fourth place with 5748 votes behind SDPI. The result came as a shock to the party leadership as the candidate who garnered a mere 5000 odd votes lost over 2000 votes as compared to 2016 general election. As the yatra moved to central Kerala, senior national leaders joined the campaign. However most of the observations and allegations against Kerala was defended by the CPIM in an equally tough voice. While the BJP carried out similar protest against CPI offices in Delhi, the left party hit back by marching towards the saffron party's offices in Delhi. advertisement Finally after 14 days and 11 districts, the yatra today finally culminated in the Capital, Thiruvananthapuram. Amit Shah who joined the yatra midway in Thiruvananthapuram, walked over 3 kms by foot to the public meeting ground. Before launching the yatra, BJP national leadership has initiated a national media campaign painting Kerala as a land of brutal political killings engineered by the ruling CPIM to set their agenda on. During the course of yatra, there were atleast 5 incidents of violent attacks in Kannur alone. The first reported incident was an attack on CPIM rally which was carried out in Kannur after the yatra had left the district. Attackers hurled country made bombs at the rally injuring 5 CPIM workers and 4 Police personals. Later 9 BJP workers were arrested in connection with the attack. 2 days later an RSS worker was dragged out of his autorickhaw and attacked with iron rods by alleged CPIM workers, leaving fractures in both his legs. Following this, another RSS worker was hacked in Thalasserry. He was hospitalised with serious injuries on both legs and arms. During these 14 days, several party offices from both ends were attacked in Kannur. advertisement Meanwhile, the High Court of Kerala issued notice against state government in petition filed by Thalassery based organization demanding CBI probe on the killings of seven RSS workers in Kerala. As the Jan Raksha Yatra, which was hailed as a mass movement against CPI(M) violence culminates in Thiruvananthapuram the ground reality remains that both parties are equally responsible for inciting violence in kerala. --- ENDS --- YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Thousands of people in Malta paid tribute to the memory of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia who disclosed Panama offshore scandal involving Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyevs family, reports Armenpress. Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed in a car bomb attack. Her son arrived in the scene and tried to open the doors of the car, and during that period two police officers tried to extinguish the fire in the car. Many people in Malta even change their Facebook profiles and post black square photos for the memory of the journalist. Margaritis Schinas chief spokesperson of the European Commission said the journalists death can be an ordered murder. He said the European Commission calls on to thoroughly investigate the case and strictly punish all those involved in the incident. All famous political figures and prime minister of Malta Joseph Muscat condemned the incident. Daphne Caruana Galizia was one of the most famous journalists in the country. She wrote about corruption across Maltas political divides on her blog. She recently conducted an investigation and revealed that Maltas PM Joseph Muscat has offshore companies in Panama. In 2017 she announced that the offshore company belonging to the wife of the Maltese PM received money from a company having links with the daughter of the Azerbaijani president. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Vice President of the National Assembly of Armenia, spokesperson of the ruling Republican Party Eduard Sharmazanov has reacted to the announcement of Novruz Mammadov, assistant to Azerbaijans president for foreign policy issues, according to whom President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan has violated the agreement reached during the Geneva talks and presented details of the negotiations during the meeting with the Armenian community in Switzerland. In an interview with ARMENPRESS the Vice President of the parliament of Armenia stressed that Novruz Mammadov has obviously problems with understanding. His announcement, as well as the announcements of other Azerbaijani officials who try to create an illusion that the President wanted to present details immediately after the talks by which he violated an agreement are nothing more than absurd, Eduard Sharmazanov said. As refers to the 2 key points - Artsakh will never be part of Azerbaijan and the issue of security is the most important, the Armenian side has said it 10 years ago and will say today and tomorrow. We are in no way responsible for revelation of negotiation details and there is no need to try to mislead the public and the international community, the RPA spokesperson said. According to him, President Sargsyans remarks on the importance of security and Artsakh are in no way linked with the details of the talks and as refers to the details of the talks President Sargsyan has said only what the Minsk Group has promulgated. And as refers to Artsakh, be it Mammadov or anyone else, Artsakh will never be part of Azerbaijan, the Armenian side one again reiterates that, Sharmazanov added. YEREVAN, 17 OCTOBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 17 October, USD exchange rate is up by 0.03 drams to 481.35 drams. EUR exchange rate is down by 1.55 drams to 565.97 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate is down by 0.01 drams to 8.40 drams. GBP exchange rate is down by 2.22 drams to 637.89 drams. The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals. Gold price is up by 58.52 drams to 20169.56 drams. Silver price is up by 3.26 drams to 269.43 drams. Platinum price is up by 62.81 drams to 14624.59 drams. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Transport, Communication and Information Technologies of Armenia Vahan Martirosyan visited Yerevan locomotive depot on October 17 to get acquainted with the technical capacities of the new, high-class and modern electric train imported from Russia, ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technologies. Director General of the "South-Caucasian Raliway" Sergey Valko presented the technical capacities of the train to the Minister. The new train is comfortable for everyone, including for disabled. Its equipped with elevators which help passengers with wheelchairs to get on/off the train. The two-wagon electric train has 129 seats. It has ventilation, sterilization, fire fighting systems, emergency exit windows, screens for information. The train is still in the stage of testing. The high-class electric train was brought to Armenia in line with the agreement reached between the Prime Minister of Armenia Karen Karapetyan and the leadership of the Open Joint Stock Company Russian Railways. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian gave an opening speech at the event dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the MFA Armenia, FM Nalbandian said, Honorable Ambassador, Ladies and gentlemen, I am happy to greet you at this solemn event dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation and on this occasion to send our warmest congratulations and best wishes to the friendly people of Canada. In 1867, the founding fathers of Canada envisaged a society based on the ideas of equality, justice, tolerance and integrity. In the modern world full of national and religious antagonisms, Canada is a vivid example of a multicultural and multi-religious society, proving that the differences between peoples should not be a source of hostility but a create a basis for a prosperous country. We, Armenians, know from our own experience that the noble principles laid in the foundation of the Canadian way of conduct are not just words. Canada was one of the first countries to provide relief to the survivors of the Armenian Genocide by adopting 109 Armenian orphans and giving them a chance to begin a new life. This initiative, known as "Canadas Noble Experiment," was one of the first humanitarian projects for which Canada is known today throughout the world. By recognizing the Armenian Genocide, both on the legislative and executive levels, Canada once again reaffirmed its commitment to universal human values. We highly appreciate the yearly messages by the Canadian Prime Ministers on the April 24 commemorating the anniversary of the Genocide. Canada makes significant contributions to international security and stability by participating in peacekeeping and humanitarian missions around the world. The concept of modern peace-keeping was proposed by Canada's former prime minister, a brilliant diplomat and a Nobel Peace Prize winner Lester Pearson. Armenia also strives to contribute to international peacekeeping operations and humanitarian missions and preventing crimes against humanity. This creates a good basis for Armenian-Canadian interaction in international formats. I would like to particularly mention the successful cooperation between Armenia and Canada within the framework of the International Organization of La Francophonie. We highly appreciate the strong Canadian support during the last year's Francophone Summit in Madagascar for the proposal to hold the Francophonie Summit in 2018 in Yerevan. Ladies and gentlemen, This January we have celebrated the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Armenia and Canada. We are proud that during the last quarter-of-a-century we have established warm friendship and close cooperation with Canada on the basis of mutual respect and trust. There have been high-level reciprocal visits, numerous intergovernmental agreements have been signed, various programs have been implemented, and peoples diplomacy has been developing year after year. I should note with satisfaction the outstanding contribution of the Armenian community of Canada to the development of Armenian-Canadian relations. I am confident that the Armenian-Canadian relations will continue to develop in the spirit of friendship and cooperation by registering new impressive achievement. Dear Friends, I want to congratulate Canada once again on the 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation and I extend my best wishes to our Canadian colleagues. The Democrat leadership has made constant, profound and incredible pronouncements that one's supportive vote for Republicans is tantamount to surrendering Democracy forever. Understanding their sincere thinking in their extreme position: How will you still vote on this election day? Democrat; because the continuance of this Democracy from the existential threat of extreme Republicans is paramount. Republican; the process of having a choice is the democratic method within what so called "Democracy" does exists. ... consideration of political affiliation and balance in the employment of faculty at institutions of higher education governed by the state board of regents. (The bill stalled in committee). Legislating a problem away is an extremely tempting option, when available. Why not try to fix the most intractable problem in public higher education-its intensifying politicization-with a single stroke of a pen, if you hold the ultimate authority through legislative majorities?And so, the cry arises to institute affirmative action for conservative scholars in academia. At first glance, it seems to satisfy the need to rebalance the Ivory Tower from its leftward lurch, but such legislative overreach is actually a desperate act that should be employed only if less extreme measures prove ineffective.That universities are politically one-sided is beyond question today. Whether one looks at voter registrations or faculty publications, or merely scans online headlines to see how academia keeps pushing further to the left, the radicalization is all too obvious. The problem is most pervasive in those disciplines that are concerned with culture, politics, and society; academia at times seems intent on driving a polarizing wedge into the American people with little concern for what may happen when the nation is ripped apart.And self-correction on a sufficient scale seems unlikely; once an organization achieves a critical mass of one-sided opinion, there is little hope of turning back. Even schools that have had huge negative impacts (severe drops in enrollment) due to their politicization, such as the University of Missouri at Columbia or Evergreen State University in Washington , stand firmly committed to their liberal ideologies.There are a few indications that some in academia are acknowledging the problems caused by an overarching intellectual conformity. Several colleges known for their extremely liberal climates, such as Warren Wilson College or Wesleyan University , are deliberately seeking conservative faculty and students to restore a diversity of views on campus. And some liberal scholars are speaking out against the growing assault on free speech, such as Jonathan Haidt of New York University.While voluntary reform from within would be best, it is unlikely that highly liberal colleges will do much more than add a few conservative voices-the majority of faculty and staff are too committed to their ideologies to allow conservative thought to thrive and become a powerful force on campus.Given such intransigence in the face of the clear and apparent need for change, it would seem sensible for state legislators to mandate that universities provide a balance of views on campus. This year, a bill was introduced into the Iowa Senate that called for:Yet, such "quick fix" solutions may cause more problems than they solve. The academic ideal is to promote the spirit of open inquiry and the free market of ideas, a sentiment that has the support of right-thinking intellectuals on both sides of the political aisle. Legislating the inclusion of specific views in public universities will undermine that openness; it may seem reasonable when addressing the lack of conservatives on campus but could set a disastrous precedent should a shift to the left in state electoral politics occur.The implementation of ideological affirmative action or curricular balance also faces high barriers. Right-wing thought is hardly monolithic; at times it seems as though there are as many shades of conservatism as there are conservatives. Would affirmative action include a balance between social conservatives and libertarians? Or between globalist neo-cons and nationalist paleo-cons?Furthermore, the actual hiring would still be in the hands of liberal or radical academics faculty and administrators. If they chose to resist the imposition of quotas for conservative faculty-an act they would likely view as tyrannical-they could effectively neutralize the intent of affirmative action policies by hiring the candidates who would be the least effective voices for conservative ideas, as is routinely done in the media (with centrists such as David Brooks and Joe Scarborough serving as house "conservatives" for the New York Times and MSNBC respectively).Since ideological affirmative action is both inimical to open inquiry and difficult to implement, it may be better to search for alternative approaches. Fortunately, there are quite a few other options that may start academia moving back in the other direction.Legislators have a wide variety of means for effecting change. They wield the power of the purse, control appointments to governing bodies, and affect the regulatory climate. They can defund politicized campus entities and job categories. Admittedly, there is little hope for legislators reforming academia in overwhelmingly liberal states such as California or Massachusetts, but Republicans now control 32 state legislatures and 33 governorships. If they have the will to reform, improvements can be done incrementally.Perhaps the single most important tactic to reverse academic politicization is to bolster the influence of boards of governance. Too often, trustees, governors, or regents are mere rubberstamps for administrators; they especially shy away from any curricular or ideological matters. But that is where their input is most needed: boards must be empowered to provide some oversight in matters of hiring and curriculum. That is not to say complete micromanagement of all things academic, but to at least keep themselves aware of academic tendencies and to address egregious occurrences.One curricular improvement under the authority of legislatures or governing boards that can make a gradual difference is demanding that schools restrict their general education programs to essential cores rather than permitting students to satisfy their requirements from a seemingly endless smorgasbord of choices that include many narrow or frivolous courses. If this laxity about general education continues, then history departments will continue to hire unserious or politicized professors.On the other hand, if schools insist that students satisfy their general education history requirement with broad, essential courses such as American History or Western Civilization, history departments will need to hire more experts in those subjects. Experts in American History and the Western tradition are more likely to be open to conservative ideas by the nature of their interests.Governing boards-or legislatures, if that is where the responsibility lies-also need to scrutinize top administrative appointments closely. Just assuming that because somebody has had a successful career in academia or has a proven track record as a fundraiser does not mean they will support open inquiry or the marketplace of ideas. Board members need to make sure the administrators that they hire will not bend to the radical mob that wishes to eliminate or silence conservative voices.One possible litmus test for candidates to top administrative posts is whether they acknowledge that academia tilts to the left. If they do not admit that there is bias, given the overwhelming empirical evidence that bias exists , they are either partisan, disingenuous, naive, or delusional, not qualities one should want to run highly influential billion dollar entities.Board members must also assume the right to review new faculty hires and exercise veto power should there be a problem. Doing so should end complete radicalization of entire academic departments.Another important development is for conservative parents of students to take their blinders off regarding the institutions their children attend. Too often, their impressions are of their own college experiences in the days before politicization of the Ivory Tower became stifling. The assumption that a college education is "value-neutral" as regards student beliefs is false; the minute they step on campus they are bombarded with pressure to adopt leftist values, such as an orientation program at UNC-Chapel Hill that teaches entering freshmen that "gender is fluid."According to Inside Higher Ed, there are signs that at least some parents are questioning their children's college choices on political grounds. One problem is that, while such known left-wing bastions as Brown University, Evergreen State University, or Oberlin College are easily eliminated as choices by conservative parents, academia in general is liberal. Even public universities in the most conservative states are far to the left of center. A few conservative choices exist, but they are often small private schools.Hopefully, new options and institutions will arise. Until then, parents should examine course syllabi in the humanities and social sciences for bias and mention the possibility of indoctrination. At the least, parents should question courses students enroll in and be aware of red flags, such as a focus on diversity, race, or gender. Should such courses suffer enrollment declines, there will be less need for professors specializing in them.Conservative alumni also need to become more involved and vocal. Too often, alumni bodies allow themselves to be mere tools for administrators. Alumni magazines tend to be public relations mouthpieces, rather than informing graduates about what is really going on. Conservatives need to look at alternative sources of information about their alma maters and to form networks that spread the word and put pressure on administrations to keep a wide range of views on campus.Alumni-and other donors-also need to either refrain from donating to politicized schools or to target their gifts to conservative campus organizations. Academic centers with explicit missions focused on conservative-oriented topics, such as capitalism or the Founding Fathers, can make a large difference at their schools.The nation is going through a period of heightened political awareness, with an increasing realization that traditional Western thought and free market economics must be defended in academia if our way of life is to continue. If conservatives-politicians, trustees, alumni, students, and parents-work together, they may be able to restore political balance without throwing away the spirit of free inquiry through intrusive legislation such as affirmative action. The ideological imbalance of American university faculties is not news. Whether one looks at faculty voter registrations, publications, course syllabi reading lists, or merely the steady stream of radical-left "outrages of the day," the evidence is amply sufficient.The question is whether anything can be done about it, short of some sort of legislated ideological balance such as affirmative action for conservative faculty. For a solution to be viable, it must walk a narrow tightrope between violating the spirit of open inquiry and failing to effect change, all while facing a firestorm of opposition from deeply entrenched interests. Legislated balance clearly threatens open inquiry and will inflame campus sentiment.There is another policy idea that hits a sweet spot with potential for improvement; it not only avoids infringing on academic freedom but bolsters it. That idea is giving trustees a final review in the faculty hiring process at public universities. Currently, at most schools, faculty departments have the most control over hiring; the only other influence comes from the administration, which is itself composed of faculty members.Trustee oversight of faculty hiring provides the badly needed balance the Founding Fathers instilled in the Constitution, with one branch of governance serving as a check on another. Governing boards are the proper authority to conduct such a final review of faculty hires. They are from outside the academy and are more in touch with the sentiments of the community at large (not merely those of the insular college town). Their livelihoods do not depend on their position at the university, and they need not fear recriminations from politicized faculty and administrators. Because of their independence, they can avoid the sort of parochial groupthink that is becoming academia's Achilles Heel.And the time to address problems with faculty candidates is before they are hired, for academic freedom does not extend to job candidates, only to faculty members once they have been hired. Afterward, it is extremely difficult to remove somebody from an academic position no matter how unfit he or she is for college teaching.Trustees' main criterion for judging faculty candidates should not be political, but should instead focus on whether a faculty candidate's scholarship and public statements indicate support for the university as the free marketplace of ideas. By making open inquiry the litmus test, radical activists can be kept off of (public) university faculties. (There should be a secondary test to make sure that the candidate is the sort of individual whose character is worthy of a faculty appointment.)Such trustee review would not be undertaken in order to hire candidates with specific political beliefs, but in a preventive manner to ensure that unfit candidates with backgrounds and opinions that are beyond the pale are eliminated. For instance, the American Indian Studies faculty at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign made a truly awful hire-Steven Salaita, a pro-Palestinian activist with sketchy scholarship who publicly applauded and called for violence against Israeli civilians. Because all the school's procedures for hiring new faculty members included one final step-board approval-the school was able to rescind Salaita's appointment at the last minute, saving Illinois taxpayers from funding a radical activist and giving him a platform of influence.A necessary part of the faculty approval process would involve vetting a candidate's publications and public commentary in order to assess whether he or she is not only acceptable to department members-a significant portion of whom may be radicalized themselves-but acceptable to society as a whole (since public universities exist to serve society). Again, the major criterion for judging them would not be political, but whether they have demonstrated support for the ideals of open inquiry (or at least have not show animosity toward open inquiry). Would they support free speech and the open exchange of ideas and be civil to those with whom they disagree? Also, would they conduct themselves in a scholarly manner? Are they scholars first rather than activists? And have they shown contempt for large segments of society, including traditional Americans?Of course, the net effect of an employment standard of allegiance to free inquiry would eventually be political, for trustees would be able to eliminate the worst candidates chosen by the faculty, such as supporters of groups such as Antifa who stand in opposition to free inquiry. Over time, faculties would gradually become more reasonable and even open to seeking conservative colleagues on their own.It is only natural for academics to object to this intrusion on their control, as they have long been relatively unconstrained in their choice of colleagues. But collegiality, one of the major standards by which they decide on whom to admit to the faculty, frequently serves as a way to eliminate dissenters to the prevailing political winds on campus. Certainly, scholars should have some say about who joins them in their departments, but it is also fair that others with an interest in public universities-taxpayers, alumni, parents, and students, who are represented by the trustees-should have some say over who has influence on the campus-and beyond.For faculty in the humanities and social sciences today are not merely teachers of a universally agreed-upon canon whose influence stays on campus. Faculty can not only influence students as future voters, but have an impact beyond the Ivory Tower. They actively partake in public debate and serve as expert consultants in all manner of endeavors. The University of North Carolina system includes many who strive to be "public intellectuals" instead of mere faculty. Perhaps the best known is Chapel Hill law professor Gene Nichol, who has long railed against conservatism in the state's top newspapers. Another example is the large number of the state's faculty who opposed Republicans taking control of the state legislature in 2010, first calling themselves " Scholars for a Progressive North Carolina ," and then the less obvious "Scholars for North Carolina's Future."Additionally, there are occasionally moral objections to prospective faculty members that are not addressed in the current system. One clear-cut case is University of North Carolina at Wilmington assistant English professor Alex Porco , who was hired over 100 other applicants despite-or quite possibly, given the makeup of Wilmington's English department, because of-having published two books that not only glorified pornography but were extremely unscholarly. The first, entitled The Jill Kelley Poems, he described asMost of the poems are far too vulgar to be repeated on this site (the rest were merely infantile).Porco's second literary effort was Augustine in Carthage, and Other Poems , featuring an X-rated rumination of his drunken experiences and thoughts in a Montreal strip club. It is a stream-of-consciousness rant that is essentially incomprehensible to readers, unless, perhaps, they are somehow familiar with all of Porco's high-brow literary and low pop culture references, an unlikely possibility.Trustee review, properly conducted, would have prevented UNC-Wilmington's English department from hiring Porco.Unless public institutions of higher education adopt checks and balances on the excesses of their radicalized faculty, it may one day be that the only way to restore sanity and ideological diversity on public campuses will be extreme measures such as affirmative action for conservatives. While there are clear benefits to having safeguards for faculty who express unpopular opinions, there is also a need to have some standards that prevent affronts to the taxpayers who subsidize public universities.Serious board review of faculty hires would be neither overbearing nor ineffective; it does not infringe on academic freedom since that right is reserved for existing faculty, not those who are not yet hired. If we can't get academia to hire conservatives without legislating ideological balance, we can at least stop it from elevating unhinged radicals and the morally unfit to positions of influence. NBC News has fallen so far as a credible news source that it must now endure their brand damage to the irrevocable point that the Fake News descriptor sticks to that once venerable company like glue.MSNBC has long been considered as the Democrat party propaganda outlet to present talking points to ultra Liberals and Socialists, as these dutiful minions argue on behalf of the abject Socialism of this new Democrat party on all Social media platforms everywhere.Now, NBC News media has joined the Fake News club, as was their first poster child MSNBC, by spiking all investigative news reports regarding the lecherous, but super Democrat contributor, Harvey Weinstein , while, in their hyper hypocritical style, surrendered lost footage of former employee Donald Trump's Access Hollywood "locker room" off-the-record comments to the Washington Post; surely Trump's campaign's "October Surprise" to absolutely dismantle his bid for president, in lieu of another grand hypocrite - L. Hillary Clinton This anti-woman hypocrisy by the Liberals who run NBC is the par for any Fake News outlet. NBC, you've now made the Fake News grade, and your well earned mantel suits you well. The interesting element to this accurate analogy is that this Fake News path was started long ago; not only by NBC, but by CNN, the Washington Post, the New York Times, etc, as the unprincipled whim suits them to promote an agenda - the Democrat Agenda, becoming more liberal and more socialistic in continuum ... Ergo, the Democrat Media If one remembers well enough into the past, the main stream media (MSM) was in collective unison by their negative coverage of Ronald Reagan; however, in retrospect tend to remember the most outstanding American president of modern times now fondly, as if there is a systemic amnesiac wall for this unprincipled lot in their remembrance of their historic coverage.Remember how George W. Bush was routinely insinuated to be a liar by the MSM, and when the 2006 film, "Death of a President", was released in America, few within the MSM drew any cautionary attention to the inappropriate nature of rationalizing the dubious perspective of any American president killed to express cinematic art. Where it gets really weird is when you consider the interchanging juxtaposition of the presidency of Barack Hussein Obama with any Republican president when considering the veracity of real issues (and Obama was proved to lie quite often), and, or a sitting president's assassination as topic of elitist small talk.I can hear the cacophony of "RACIST!" cascading from the lips of these liberal elitists in any scenario of such a juxtaposition.And that is the crux of what it means to be a member of the MSM as it is naturally transitioning into Fake News outlets; if these so-called journalists did not have the double standard , they would have no standards at all. By PTI: By Lalit K Jha Washington, Oct 17 (PTI) Steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal has donated a whopping USD 25 million to the prestigious Harvard University with an aim to increase engagement with India and other South Asian countries. The donation will establish an endowed fund for the South Asia Institute at the university. The institute spearheads Harvards engagement with South Asian countries, including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka as well as diaspora populations from these countries, the university said in a statement. advertisement As a result of the endowment from the Mittal Foundation, Harvards South Asia Institute would be called as Lakshmi Mittal South Asia Institute at Harvard University, it said. Founded in 2003, the South Asia Initiative became a University-wide interdisciplinary institute in 2010 under the leadership of its current faculty director, Indian-American Tarun Khanna, the Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at Harvard Business School. "We are so grateful for the Mittal familys support and what it will enable us to learn and share ? across the sciences, social sciences, and the humanities ? and the many people and institutions it will allow us to engage," said Khanna. "International centers like the South Asia Institute at Harvard University serve as a vital conduit between the University and the world we study," said Harvard President Drew Faust. "The generous support from the Mittal family is a testament to both the important work being done by this community of scholars and students and the continuing impact it will have in the region," Faust added. South Asia has played a dynamic and influential role in the development of our world since the very first civilisations, said 67-year-old Mittal, chairman and CEO of ArcelorMittal, the worlds largest steel company. "Ensuring that we fully understand its history and unique dynamics is a critical enabler in helping to shape a successful future," he added. As someone who was born in India, the long-term prosperity of India and its neighbouring countries "matters a great deal to me and my family," Mittal told Harvard Gazette in an interview. "Harvard is one of the worlds greatest learning institutions, with a unique ability to facilitate dialogue and drive thinking and progress," he said. The Mittal family has long supported educational endeavours and public policy development in India as a means of positioning the country ? and the region ? for future success, the university said. PTI LKJ AMS AKJ AMS --- ENDS --- We thank our sponsor for making this content possible; it is not written by the editorial staff nor does it necessarily reflect its views. Mopping your floors can feel daunting, but you need to walk on them eventually! So why not do both at once? You can spice up your cleaning routine as you walk READ THE REST Daphne Caruana Galizia, one of the lead journalists on the Panama Papers story, has been assassinated by a car-bomb in the town of Bidnija in northern Malta. The Panama Papers were a collection of leaked documents from the Panamanian law-firm of Mossack-Fonseca, and revealed the abuse of tax-havens by dictators, politicians, actors, hereditary one percenters, businesspeople and others around the world, bringing down at least one government. Two weeks ago, Caruana Galizia notified Maltese police that she had been receiving death-threats. She had lead the Panama Papers reporting as it pertained to corruption in Mediterranean islands, and her blog was a constant source of relentless anti-corruption reporting, including recent allegations of corruption against Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. Florida. Apparently, a shopper became irate when a dutiful 7-11 clerk asked she pump, rather than scoop her nacho cheese. It is unclear how quickly the disagreement turned violent, but the cheese was thrown. Via Raw Story: At nearly 2 a.m, the 7-Eleven clerk in Melbourne, Florida told Stephanie L. Hicks not to open the nacho cheese dispenser to scoop it out. Rather, she was told a customer must pump the cheese out. Hicks ignored her. The clerk then refused service based on the actions of the customer, which could compromise health standards. Hicks wasn't having it and chucked the hot nacho cheese as well as a sandwich at the employee. The clerk then informed Hicks she was calling the police. However, Hicks' legal justification was that the customer is always right. When officers arrived they observed yellow nacho cheese on the clerk's hands, feet and around the register. They watched the in-store video and Hicks was arrested and charged with battery. Vaquita CPR is the international effort to save the "pandas of the sea," critically endangered and super-cute vaquitas, the earth's smallest species of porpoises. Only 30 are believed to live in their range in the northern Gulf of California. Via the San Diego Union-Tribune: The plan is taking place off the coast of San Felipe, a fishing community of some 30,000 residents that has been ground zero for vaquita rescue efforts for more than a decade. People here have been divided on the subject some working with government and environmental groups to remove totoaba nets and develop sustainable practices, though others have seen the protection measures as a threat to their livelihood. Since 2015, when President Enrique Pena Nieto came to announce a ban on drift gillnets and other actions to protect the vaquita, fishermen have received compensation not to fish. Last week, Mexico's federal government took it a step further, announcing a no-navigation zone in the vaquita's habitat through Dec. 17 in support of Vaquita CPR. The lights of San Felipe glimmered like polished jewels as the scientists left in the dark Friday for their first full day of searching. A small crowd gathered on a dock by the expedition's main dormitory and operations center, the cruise ship Pacific Monarch. It was a good beginning, with low winds and clear skies that promised smooth waters as they set off with nets, custom-made stretchers, and special carrier boxes designed to provisionally hold any captured vaquita being brought to shore. A Florida attorney filed a petition saying a nearly six-and-a-half year prison term would eat up most of his client's time left to live, due to the client's large weight. Attorney Curtis Fallgatter somehow calculated his client Stephen Donaldson Sr., 72, who was recently convicted for marketing an offshore tax shelter scheme that cost the IRS nearly $10 million, would spend 61 percent of his remaining life-years in prison since he is only 5-foot-9 and weighs 273 pounds, according to the Tampa Bay Times. Fallgatter did not use the strange weight excuse for his other Tampa Bay client, who was sentenced to four years and six months in prison. Unfortunately for Donaldson, if his petition is granted and the sentence is overturned, he misses his opportunity to gain a sweet prison bod. Image: Adam Jones, Ph.D. By Allison Lampert and Tim Hepher MONTREAL/TOULOUSE, France (Reuters) - Boeing Co said on Tuesday that Bombardier Inc's CSeries jets could still be hit with high U.S. import duties, even if they are assembled in Alabama through an industry-changing deal with Airbus. The deal announced on Monday gives Airbus a majority stake in Bombardier's troubled CSeries jetliner program, securing the plane's future and giving the Canadian firm a possible way out of a damaging trade dispute with Boeing, in which the U.S. Commerce Department has threatened to impose a 300 percent import duties. Boeing said that the announced deal has no effect on the pending U.S. Department of Commerce proceedings. "Any duties finally levied against the C-Series... will have to be paid on any imported C-Series airplane or part, or it will not be permitted into the country," Michael Luttig, Boeing's general counsel, said in a statement. Investors cheered the winners of the deal that is set to shake up the $125 billion a year market for large jets. Bombardier shares jumped 15.7 percent on Tuesday, while shares in Toulouse, France-based Airbus rose 4.8 percent. The transaction would give Airbus a 50.01 percent stake in an entity recently carved out of Bombardier to produce and market the CSeries, four years after it first flew with a goal to enter the large jets market. But in a move emblematic of the huge risks of aerospace competition, Bombardier will get just one dollar for the majority stake in exchange for Airbus's purchasing and marketing power to support an aircraft that has won fans for its fuel efficiency but had not secured a new order in 18 months for the 110-130 seat plane due to doubts over its future. Bombardier's strategy of performing final assembly in Alabama might allow the CSeries to avoid duties because the trade case targets partially and fully-assembled aircraft, said U.S. international trade lawyer William Perry. Bombardier and Airbus could argue they are importing parts, like the wing from Northern Ireland, to be assembled in the United States. "That may be the loophole Bombardier is hoping to use," he said by phone. 'ONE DOLLAR DEAL' In reality, the terms of the deal mean Bombardier could pay Airbus to take over by agreeing to underwrite $700 million of risks related to cost overruns in coming years. "It's an unexpected move by Airbus but indicates they see good market potential for the CSeries. Neither they nor Boeing currently offer an aircraft in the regional jet market," said aerospace consultant John Strickland of JLS Consulting. The deal is similar to one that Airbus walked away from in 2015 when it decided the investment in a plane that had not yet entered service was too risky - with one major difference: that some of the jets will be produced in the United States. That could change the power balance in Bombardier's costly trade dispute with Boeing, though it is not the main reason why the two former rivals have come together, executives said. "Assembly in the U.S. can resolve the (tariff) issue because it then becomes a domestic product," Bombardier's chief executive, Alain Bellemare, told reporters at Airbus's headquarters in Toulouse. Airbus CEO Tom Enders hailed the tie-up as "a win for Canada ... a win for the UK," referring to Bombardier's wing-making factory in Northern Ireland whose future had been threatened by the distant trade war. He said it would also create new U.S. jobs. The deal appeared to catch Boeing off guard. Locked in a separate 13-year trade dispute with Airbus, Boeing on Monday called it a "questionable deal" between two of its subsidized competitors. CANADIAN APPROVAL Bellemare said he hoped the deal would be approved within six to 12 months. Canadian Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains, who must officially decide whether to green-light the deal, said it looked like "Bombardier's new proposed partnership ... would help position the CSeries for success". Bombardier said the partnership should more than double the value of the CSeries program. While it will lose control of a project developed at a cost of $6 billion, the deal gives the CSeries improved economies of scale and a better sales network. For Airbus, the deal strengthens the bottom end of its narrowbody portfolio after poor sales of its own A319 model and expands its global footprint, potentially opening up further deals in other sectors in Canada. Tony Webber, a former chief economist at Qantas, said the CSeries could complement Airbus's existing single-aisle models. Bellemare said the deal was expected to close in the second half of 2018. "We're doing this deal here not because of this Boeing petition. We are doing this deal because it is the right strategic move for Bombardier," he said, referring to Boeing's complaint that the Canadian firm received illegal subsidies and dumped CSeries planes at "absurdly low" prices. NO JOB LOSSES Bombardier said the deal would not result in job losses and would keep the head office in Montreal. Unions said the deal could benefit workers. The Boeing-Bombardier dispute has snowballed into a bigger multilateral trade dispute, with British Prime Minister Theresa May asking U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene to save British jobs. Bombardier is the largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland and May's Conservatives rely on the support of the small Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) party for their majority in parliament. Business Secretary Greg Clark said Britain would work closely with the planemakers, while the DUP said the agreement was "incredibly significant news" for Belfast. Talks for the deal between Airbus and Bombardier first started over dinner at the end of August. Enders said the deal was different from an earlier round of talks in 2015, when he abruptly ordered an end to negotiations. He said the CSeries' had since been certified, entered service and was performing well. Some analysts said the deal could drive Boeing closer together with Brazil's Embraer, with which it already cooperates. Bombardier is in the middle of a five-year turnaround plan after considering bankruptcy because of a cash-crunch as it developed multiple planes simultaneously, including the CSeries. ($1 = 1.2529 Canadian dollars) (Additional reporting by Ankur Banerjee in Bengaluru; Alana Wise in Atlanta; David Ljunggren in Arlington, Virginia; Michael Holden in London; and Richard Lough and Sudip Kar-Gupta in Paris; Writing by Denny Thomas, Guy Faulconbridge and Richard Lough; Editing by Mark Potter and Lisa Shumaker) In an attempt to defend his lack of public statements about four soldiers killed in Niger, President Trump falsely claimed that previous presidents did not call the families of dead soldiers name-checking former President Barack Obama specifically as one of those who did not. Ive written them personal letters, Trump said at a press conference. Theyve been sent or theyre going out tonight, but they were written during the weekend. I will at some point during the period of time call the parents and the families, cause I have done that traditionally. The traditional way, if you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didnt make calls, a lot of them didnt make calls, he added. Four United States Army Special Forces soldiers were killed and two more were injured in an ambush by Islamic extremists earlier this month. Trumps comments notwithstanding, Obama did call the families of fallen soldiers. Trump was later pressed on the false claim, but he declined to retract it. I dont know if he did, Trump said of Obama in particular. No, no no. I was told that he didnt often and a lot of presidents dont, they write letters. I do a combination of both, he continued, referencing both writing letters and calling. Sometimes its a very difficult thing to do, but I do a combination of both. President Obama, I think probably did sometimes and maybe sometimes he didnt, I dont know, thats what I was told. All I can do, all I can do is ask my generals. Other presidents did not call, theyd write letters. And some presidents didnt do anything. But I like the combination, I like when I can the combination of a call and also a letter. A former Obama White House official rejected Trumps claim in a statement, saying, President Trumps claim is wrong. President Obama engaged families of the fallen and wounded warriors throughout his presidency through calls, letters, visits to Section 60 at Arlington, visits to Walter Reed, visits to Dover, and regular meetings with Gold Star Families at the White House and across the country. Story continues White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders was asked on Oct. 6 why Trump had yet to make any statements about the U.S. troops slain in Niger. I made a statement on behalf of the administration yesterday in the opening, she said, according to a White House transcript. Obviously, anytime one of the members of our great military are injured, wounded, or killed in action, that is certainly something that we take very seriously. Our thoughts and prayers are with those individuals. On Monday, former Obama aides Alyssa Mastromonaco and Dan Pfeiffer responded on to Trumps claim, calling him a deranged animal and a deeply disturbed ignoramus who is a pathological liar, respectively. Another former Obama staffer, Ben Rhodes, also condemned the outrageous and disrespectful lie. that's a fucking lie. to say president obama (or past presidents) didn't call the family members of soldiers KIA he's a deranged animal. Alyssa Mastromonaco (@AlyssaMastro44) October 16, 2017 Trump is a deeply disturbed ignoramus who is a pathological liar, but Mitch McConnell is cool with it cuz tax cuts or something https://t.co/8GwjnD3t9b Dan Pfeiffer (@danpfeiffer) October 16, 2017 Now hes lying about his own lie https://t.co/P79tUbezq3 Dan Pfeiffer (@danpfeiffer) October 16, 2017 The writer is director of policy and government relations at Regavim Updates throughout the day at http://calevbenyefuneh.blog spot.com. If you enjoy "Love of the Land", please be a subscriber. Just put your email address in the "Subscribe" box on the upper right-hand corner of the page.Twitter updates at LoveoftheLand as well as our Love of the Land page at Facebook which has additional pieces of interest besides that which is posted on the blog. Also check-out This Ongoing War by Frimet and Arnold Roth. An excellent blog, very important work. . ..Opinion/JPost..10 October '17..Recently, Arik Ascherman of the Rabbis for Human Rights organization reported on his testimony before a US Senate briefing. In a manipulative misuse of the emotive words of our liturgy, the author implied that the Government of Israel, its Supreme Court, and by implication each and every one of Israels citizens, is somehow to blame for playing God and conspiring to take the lives of innocent Bedouin individuals and communities.Nonsense.Irrefutable facts, supported by documentation and aerial photography, have been repeatedly examined, and now form the factual basis of numerous Supreme Court decisions debunking the spurious claims of the squatters of Palestinian Sussiya and Khan al Akhmar.Nonetheless, illegal construction and flagrant disregard of the law continue.Anti-Israel, pro-BDS groups whitewash the obstructionism of the Palestinian Authority and the cynical use of the Jaalin and Nawajah families as pawns in the PAs corrupt game and disregard the endless rounds of negotiation, compensation and relocation schemes and compromises offered by the Government of Israel. They have fabricated a narrative of persecution and victimization that bears no resemblance to reality.Here are some facts: The Palestinian (Arab) village of Sussiya never existed. The entire Nawajah family are in fact residents of the Shaabin neighborhood in the village of Yatta, located in Area B, under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority. On August 14, 2013, the Population Registry Department of the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) confirmed that all 30 households of the Nawajah family reside in Yatta and that each owns a house there. As residents of Area B, housing solutions for the Nawajah clan are the sole responsibility of the Palestinian Authority.Leftist organizations, aided by the European Union, have attempted to create facts on the ground by steady, stealthy encroachment into Area C through the construction of permanent housing, crafting a campaign of emotional blackmail that centers on the plight of the dispossessed shepherds of the Nawajah clan.While there are hundreds of dunams of privately owned land in the area between Yatta and Sussiya, a small portion owned by members of the Nawajah family, this has nothing whatsoever to do with the land they now claim to own. Under Israeli and international law, land belongs to the State unless documentation of private ownership proves otherwise and the Nawajah clan has never brought any such proof. Although there are registry deeds, they are more than 100 years old and dont clearly identify the property.The deeds indicate that certain tracts were jointly owned by 64 people; today, this would translate into many hundreds of heirs who own the land jointly. If the Nawajah family could prove ownership, it would be to a tract only a fraction of the size of the area upon which they are currently squatting. In other words, the Nawajah are attempting to lay their hands on land that does not belong to them and never has. Palestinian Sussiya is either State land, as the Supreme Court concluded, or it is private land that belongs to others. Either way, the State is obligated to evict them.Anti-Israel propagandists insinuate that the archeological site at Sussiya was somehow created for the purpose of dispossessing the Nawajah clan. This is patently ridiculous: The ancient synagogue at Sussiya is a remnant of the Jewish community that thrived there thousands of years ago, and it was discovered and surveyed in the 1950s. The removal of the squatters has simply restored the status quo at the site. Another demand is that the Beduins be permitted to rebuild the caves from which they were expelled. As is common knowledge, shepherds often camp in caves or other shelters in their grazing areas. The Beduins themselves dont considered them residences, and the idea that the State is responsible for creating or replacing such shelters is laughable.Despite these facts, the State of Israel offered to build a permanent community for the Sussiya squatters in Area C, on land contiguous with Area B but the PA rejected the offer and with the help of EU funding, proceeded to construct more illegal structures, some 200 meters away from the Bedouin encampment and even further into Israeli-controlled Area C.The facts regarding Khan al Akhmar, the flagship settlement in a web of illegal communities erected by the Palestinian Authority with EU funding, are equally clear. Aerial photos prove that the area was completely barren of structures, settlement, or agricultural activity of any significance in 1967. Like so many other places throughout the Middle East, the area was a seasonal grazing ground; as in every other place in the world, this does not afford rights of ownership. Nonetheless, the State of Israel has invested millions in the Abu Dis area, laying the groundwork for legal, modern communities for the Jaalin clan. In addition, the State has offered them permanent housing at Talet Nueima, near Jericho.In both cases, all compromise solutions were rejected by the Palestinian Authority.The Israel-bashers manipulation of the facts reveals their underlying hypocrisy: Israeli sovereignty is neither a given nor a desirable state of affairs in their eyes not in Judea and Samaria and not in Jerusalem. To them, Israels judicial system, its democratic system of government, and its sovereignty, are legitimate only when they serve a very particular agenda. Supreme Court decisions and Israeli and international law are respected only when they further the pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel cause.I call upon the anti-Israel left to set aside their bias and consider the damage they and the PA are doing to the Bedouin they claim to represent: The callous manipulation of these people has denied them the ability to reach a compromise with the Israeli government, to comply with the law, and to resettle legally, in organized, modern communities. The leftist radicals who turn a blind eye to the immoral and illegal conduct of the PA owe the Nawajah and Jaalin clans an apology; this is an auspicious time of year for them to offer it. By Rohit Kumar Singh: Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has lashed out at RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav. Sushil Modi questioned why Lalu did not make efforts to grant central university status to Patna University when he railways minister in the UPA government between 2004-09. Asserting that the UPA government at the Centre, then, was surviving with the support of RJD, Lalu had no right to question PM Narendra Modi not entertaining the demand raised by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during the centenary celebrations of the Patna University on October 14. advertisement "Lalu was in power for 10 years at the Centre. Why did he not get central university status for PU", questioned Sushil Kumar Modi, deputy Chief Minister. Sushil Modi, though, claimed that the PM had not straight away rejected the demand raised by Nitish Kumar and there was still a possibility of the 100 year old university being converted into central university. He claimed that Bihar was only second to Uttar Pradesh in having most numbers of central universities in the state. "The Centre has not rejected Nitish Kumar's demand. This has been a popular demand in the last several years and in future there is a possibility of that PU may be converted into a central university. At the moment there are four central universities in the state and the fifth one, Vikramshila University is in the pipeline. The state govt will improve the infrastructure at the PU in coming days", said the deputy CM. Reacting to former deputy CM Tejaswi Yadav's attack on him after he allegedly made a comment at a conclave in Patna on Tuesday claiming that development had stopped in Bihar after BJP-JDU alliance broke in 2013, Modi said that his comments were misconstrued and Tejaswi had no moral right to raise such issues. "Tejaswi is a small child. Today he has been left with no work but to tweet. When he was given a chance to change Bihar, he was busy roaming in Delhi and London. I simply said that after the BJP-JDU alliance broke in 2013, pace of development had taken a hit especially in departments which was held by RJD", said, Sushil Kumar Modi. --- ENDS --- Student Success Portland State U Developing a Degree Planning Tool to Boost Student Completion Portland State University is working with Barnes & Noble Education LoudCloud to co-develop a degree planning solution that will help students chart a path to graduation. The project is part of the university's strategic goals to "improve the student experience through digital services innovation" and improve degree completion, according to a news announcement. It's also enabled by PSU's participation in the Frontier Set, a group of 29 U.S. higher education institutions and state systems "committed to significantly increasing student access and success, and eliminating racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in college attainment." The Frontier Set was convened earlier this year by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in partnership with Association of Public and Land Grant Universities and other supporting organizations. Increasing degree completion, particularly for disadvantaged students, "is a problem worth solving to benefit millions of students across the country and stems from our extensive research and design thinking work to revamp advising," said Sukhwant Jhaj, PSU's vice provost for innovation, planning and student success, in a statement. "Our institutions and the higher education ecosystem can do more to help the new non-traditional majority. We can minimize silos that send students running around campus. And we can create more transparency with costs and financial aid. We are excited to partner with BNED LoudCloud because of their eagerness to tackle the challenges students face, particularly around academic and financial planning, and how their analytics expertise can improve degree planning. This degree planning platform will be transformational in helping students save time, save money and reduce stress." The new degree planning tool will allow students to set long-term goals, track progress toward graduation, understand financial aid options, navigate pathways to employment and more. BNED LoudCloud analytics will "provide students with insights based on their academic context/performance and career goals, so that they can work with advisers to identify degree paths that will maximize their chance of success," the announcement said. "This partnership lays the foundations for degree planner to tackle a number of student challenges, such as how to link degree paths to an ever-changing job market and how to provide a clear credit-taking path from community colleges to universities," said Kanuj Malhotra, chief operating officer at BNED Digital Education, in a statement. "And more broadly, our degree planning solution will enhance our institutional analytics to help partners enrich student-adviser interactions and tackle the challenges around demand planning. We are thrilled to partner with PSU on this forward-thinking initiative." "This is a much-needed personalized advising tool for our students that not only puts each one on a direct path to a degree but also supports them in tracking the progress of their major, grades, financial aid and other vital information," added Jhaj. "Over time, this tool will help bolster PSU's retention and graduation rates and ultimately will reduce costs for students by enabling them to stay on a more efficient course to graduate." TUESDAY, Oct. 17, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- Machines armed with artificial intelligence may one day help doctors better identify high-risk breast lesions that might turn into cancer, new research suggests. High-risk breast lesions are abnormal cells found in a breast biopsy. These lesions pose a challenge to doctors and patients. The cells in such lesions aren't normal, but they're not cancerous either. And although they can develop into cancer, many don't. So, which ones need to be removed? "The decision about whether or not to proceed to surgery is challenging, and the tendency is to aggressively treat these lesions [and remove them]," said study author Dr. Manisha Bahl. "We felt like there must be a better way to risk-stratify these lesions," added Bahl, director of the breast imaging fellowship program at Massachusetts General Hospital. Working closely with computer scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, researchers developed a "machine-learning" model to distinguish high-risk lesions that need to be surgically removed from those that could just be watched over time. Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence. The computer model automatically learns and improves based on previous experiences, the researchers explained. The researchers gave the machine a lot of information about established risk factors, such as the type of lesion and patient age. The researchers also fed it the actual text from the biopsy report. Overall, there were 20,000 data elements included in the model, the researchers said. The test of the machine-learning model included information from slightly more than 1,000 women who had a high-risk lesion. About 96 percent of these women had their lesion surgically removed. Approximately 4 percent of women didn't have their lesions removed, but instead had two years of follow-up imaging tests. The model was trained with two-thirds of the cases, and tested on the remaining third. The test included 335 lesions. The machine correctly identified 37 of the 38 lesions (97 percent) that had developed into cancer, the study said. The model also would have helped women avoid one-third of surgeries on lesions that would have remained benign during the follow-up period. In addition, Bahl said, "the model picked up on text in the biopsy report -- the words severely and severely atypical conferred a higher risk of upgrade to cancer." Bahl said the researchers are hoping to incorporate mammography images and pathology slides into the machine learning model, with the goal of eventually including this in clinical practice. "Machine learning is a tool that we can use to improve patient care -- whether that means reducing unnecessary surgeries or being able to provide more information to patients so they can make more informed decisions," Bahl said. Dr. Bonnie Litvack is medical director of the women's imaging center at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mt. Kisco, N.Y. "Women should know that there is a new type of machine learning that's helped us identify high-risk lesions at low risk of cancer. And, we may soon have more information for them when they're faced with the decision of whether to have surgery to excise these high-risk lesions or not," said Litvak, who wasn't involved in the study. "Artificial intelligence is an exciting field that will help us give women more data and help with shared decision-making," Litvack added. The study was published Oct. 17 in Radiology. More information Learn more about benign breast conditions from the American Cancer Society. TUESDAY, Oct. 17, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- Men who receive blood donated by previously pregnant women may face an increased risk of death following the transfusion, a new study from the Netherlands suggests. Males transfused with blood from a woman with a history of pregnancy appear to be 13 percent overall more likely to die in coming years, compared with those who received blood from another man, said researchers from Sanquin, the Dutch national blood bank. The highest risk seemed to be in men 18 to 50 years old. They had a 50 percent increased risk of death after receiving blood from a previously pregnant female, said Sanquin spokesman Merlijn van Hasselt, who answered questions on behalf of the research team. "The risk remained increased for many years after transfusion. No such increase was observed for female recipients, or for male recipients over 50 years," van Hasselt said. Pregnancy might affect a woman's immune system in some way that makes her blood more risky for a man, van Hasselt said. However, the risk is unlikely to prompt any immediate change in blood donation policies, said Dr. Louis Katz, chief medical officer for America's Blood Centers. "I think there's enough of a signal that it needs be studied, but I certainly wouldn't change anything right now," Katz said. "It needs to be followed up." The American Red Cross agreed. The study "needs confirmation as conflicting studies also exist," said Dr. Mary O'Neill, its interim chief medical officer. "As further research is required, we do not anticipate a change to the standard blood donation criteria or current conservative transfusion practices at this time," O'Neill said. She added that the Red Cross "will closely examine subsequent studies on this subject to ensure the ongoing safety and availability of the blood supply." The study focused on data from more than 31,000 Dutch patients. They received 59,320 transfusions in all from one of three types of donors -- men, never-pregnant women and women who'd been pregnant. After receiving a single transfusion, the three-year death rate among men was 13.5 percent for those who received male blood, 13.1 percent for those who got never-pregnant female blood, and nearly 17 percent for those who received blood from a previously pregnant female. The study didn't establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. But this isn't the first time that transfusion dangers have been associated with blood from women who've been pregnant, Katz and the Dutch researchers said. U.S. blood centers sometimes exclude women with a history of pregnancy from donation of blood products like platelets or plasma, due to a condition called transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), Katz said. TRALI typically occurs within six hours of a transfusion, and between 5 to 25 percent of patients who develop the condition die from it, according to the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. TRALI is thought to be caused by antibodies that women develop through exposure to fetal blood during pregnancy. It has been associated specifically with previously pregnant female donors, the researchers said. However, those antibodies aren't what caused the death risk found in this new study, which stretches out for years, Katz said. "The half-life of those antibodies is weeks, not months, so I don't think it's that," Katz said. But the Dutch researchers think pregnancy might make a "lasting change to the immune system of a woman, because she has to tolerate a foreign object in her body for nine months," van Hasselt said. "There is a lot of immune regulation involved in making a pregnancy possible," van Hasselt continued. "Some of this suppressive regulation could last long after the pregnancy." The study appears in the Oct. 17 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. More information For more on blood transfusion risks, visit the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. TUESDAY, Oct. 17, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- An injectable class of diabetes medication -- called glucagon-like peptide-1 or GLP-1 -- might one day be available in pill form, research suggests. Based on the results of a global phase 2 clinical trial, the study authors reported a significant drop in blood sugar levels for people on the oral medication, and no significant increase in low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) compared to a placebo over six months. The findings also showed that people taking the highest dose of the pill lost a large amount of weight -- about 15 pounds -- compared to a weight loss of fewer than 3 pounds for people on the inactive placebo pill. The research was funded by Novo Nordisk, the company that makes the drug, called oral semaglutide. "Semaglutide could transform diabetes treatment," said Dr. Robert Courgi, an endocrinologist at Southside Hospital in Bay Shore, N.Y. "Glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists are agents that are highly recommended according to diabetes guidelines, but rarely used because they require injection. Most patients prefer a pill," Courgi explained. Dr. Joel Zonszein, director of the clinical diabetes center at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, agreed that these new findings were exciting. "This medication looks pretty good. The high dose matched the [injection] version. There was low hypoglycemia. It controls blood glucose. There was weight loss and it's not an injection. This is the same molecule that's been shown [as an injection] to decrease cardiovascular mortality," Zonszein said. "It has all the ingredients for an excellent medication. If this comes to market, it would be very good for people with type 2 diabetes," he added. Zonszein and Courgi were not involved in the current study. The study included just over 1,100 people with type 2 diabetes recruited from 100 centers in 14 countries around the world. The volunteers' average age was 57. The average time they'd had type 2 diabetes was six years. On average, they were considered obese. The participants' average hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels were between 7 and 9.5 percent. HbA1C -- also called A1C -- is a measure of average blood sugar control over two to three months. The American Diabetes Association generally recommends an HbA1C of less than 7 percent for most people with type 2 diabetes. The study volunteers were randomly placed into treatment groups that lasted 26 weeks. One group was given a once-weekly injection containing 1.0 milligram (mg) of semaglutide. Five groups were given one of five doses of oral semaglutide -- 2.5, 5, 10, 20 or 40 mg. Another group was given escalating doses of the pill version, starting with the smallest dose and ending at 40 mg. The final group was given an oral placebo. The highest dose of the pill performed similarly to the injectable form as far as blood sugar control and weight loss. Those on the 40-mg oral dose and those who got the injection saw an average drop in their HbA1C of 1.9 percent, the study showed. More than 70 percent of those who took the pill saw a weight loss of at least 5 percent. According to the study's lead author, Dr. Melanie Davies, "The A1C reductions and weight loss were very impressive and similar to what we've seen with the weekly injection of semaglutide." Davies is a professor of diabetes medicine at the Diabetes Research Centre at the University of Leicester in England. The two forms of the drug were also similar in the reported side effects, which affected up to around 80 percent of those taking both forms of the drug. The most common side effects were mild to moderate digestive concerns that tended to go away with time. Nausea was less common in people who started on the lowest dose and then were given stronger doses. There were three reported cases of pancreatitis -- inflammation of the pancreas -- a potentially serious condition that has been linked to this class of medication in previous studies. One person was taking the injectable form of the drug. The other two were on the oral drug -- 20 mg and 40 mg. Zonszein noted that "pancreatitis was a bit more in those who took the drug. This may be an issue we have to pay attention to, and it may help to start with a lower dose." He also added that GLP-1 drugs, whether by injection or by mouth, should be given in combination with the standard first line type 2 diabetes drug metformin. "We get more mileage from combining drugs and patients really do much better," Zonszein said. Findings from the study were published Oct. 17 in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Davies said phase 3 trials of the pill are already well under way. More information Learn more about type 2 diabetes medications from the American Diabetes Association. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram New York, October 16, 2017The Committee to Protect Journalists called on authorities in Malta to swiftly ensure justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia, a prominent blogger killed today. The car that Caruana Galizia was driving exploded near to her house in Bidnija, in the north of the island, media reported. Caruana Galizia, who reported on government corruption and the Panama Papers, told police two weeks ago that she had received death threats, according to Maltas national broadcaster TVM, which did not provide further detail. The journalists blog, Running Commentary, which included investigative reports and commentary on politicians, was one of the most widely read websites in Malta, according to reports. Daphne Caruana Galizia investigated wrongdoing in Maltas political, business and criminal worlds, said CPJ Deputy Executive Director Robert Mahoney. The investigation into her murder therefore must be thorough, credible and timely. Daphne Caruana Galizia, pictured outside a Malta court in April 2017, covered politics and corruption. (AFP/Matthew Mirabelli) A forensic expert was cited in local media as saying that preliminary investigations suggest that explosives were not placed inside the car, and that a remote control could have been used to set the bomb off. Maltas Prime Minister Joseph Muscat announced that the FBI had agreed to assist local police in the investigation, according to Reuters. Muscat condemned todays attack, which he described as an attack on press freedom. The Prime Minister added in a statement, Everyone knows Ms. Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way. Caruana Galizias reports about Muscats alleged connection to the Panama Papers scandal forced him to call early elections in June 2017, after harsh criticism from members of the European Parliament. The 53-year-old journalist alleged that Muscat and his wife were behind an offshore company that received over US$1 million in payments from a Dubai company allegedly owned by Leyla Aliyeva, a daughter of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev. Muscat denied the allegations, according to reports. Caruana Galizias last blog, which was critical of the countrys opposition party, was posted at 2:35 p.m. local time, just a few minutes before she left her house, according to local reports. The journalists critical coverage led to several legal battles. CPJ documented in February how a court ordered her bank accounts to be frozen until a verdict was reached in a libel case that two government officials had filed against her. CPJ was unable to determine the current status of the case. It is not easy to abolish the death penalty in Thailand, the director-general of the Rights and Liberties Protection Department says. Department chief Pitikarn Pitikarn Sithidej told a meeting held on Tuesday to consider the possibility of abolishing the capital punishment. Also present was Colin Steinbach, head of the political, press and information office of the EU delegation to Thailand. The meeting is held to mark the World Day Against the Death Penalty on Oct 10. Ms Pitikarn said that abolishing the death penalty does not mean offenders will not receive punishment they deserve But the aim is to end the death penalty, which is seen as a cruel, inhumane, and uneconomical means of punishment, and to reduce the chance of wrongful execution. The death penalty goes against the human rights principles and most prisoners on death row are the underprivileged who cannot afford to hire capable lawyers, Ms Pitikarn said. There is no proof that the death penalty can deter crime, she added. So far, 141 countries have abolished the death penalty, while 57 still have it, she said. For Thailand, the last death penalty was administered in August 2009 and if no execution is carried out by 2019, the death penalty in Thailand will effectively be suspended, Ms Pitikarn said. However, Ms Pitikarn admitted that it is difficult to abolish the death penalty in Thailand, partly because many people in society do not understand that there are alternatives to capital punishment. Many see the death penalty as a means to get revenge, she said, adding the abolition must also involve legal amendments and opinions must be sought from all stakeholders, a time-consuming process. | 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 Fairfax County prosecutors will pursue the death penalty against the man accused in the high-profile killing of a 17-year-old Muslim girl, who was abducted as she walked to her mosque over the summer, authorities said. Fairfax County Commonwealths Attorney Raymond F. Morrogh (D) made the announcement Monday after a Fairfax County grand jury returned an eight-count indictment against 22-year-old Darwin Martinez Torres for capital murder, rape and other charges in connection with the slaying of Nabra Hassanen of Reston, Va. You conform the charges to what the evidence will show, Morrogh said. It is my intention to seek the death penalty. Morrogh declined to discuss the evidence that led to the indictments since the case is pending, but it was the first time that authorities indicated that they believed Nabra was sexually assaulted in the June 18 attack. In addition to the rape charge, Torres is accused of abducting Nabra with intent to defile and object sexual penetration. Fairfax Countys chief public defender, Dawn Butorac, who is representing Torres, declined to comment. Nabras family also did not immediately return a phone call. Nabras killing sparked vigils from coast to coast and spurred concerns that she was targeted because of her faith. Police and prosecutors have said they turned up no evidence that her slaying was a hate crime. A week before Nabras killing, a woman reported to Loudoun County authorities that Torres had sexually assaulted her, said people familiar with the case who spoke on the condition of anonymity. But she ultimately declined to pursue charges. A Fairfax County judge is scheduled to set a trial date for Torres on Thursday. Torress trial will be the first death penalty case in Fairfax County since 2011, when a Fairfax County jury convicted Mark E. Lawlor of bludgeoning Genevieve Orange to death in her apartment in the Seven Corners area in 2008. Prince William County prosecutors are pursuing a capital murder case against Ronald W. Hamilton, a Pentagon information technology specialist accused in 2016 of fatally shooting his wife during an incident at their Woodbridge home and then killing a responding rookie police officer. | 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 Congress and the Trump Administration have proposed reducing the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent. This week the Council of Economic Advisers released an analysis of the proposal and its potential benefits. It is sometimes the case when completing analyses of this sort that economic theory does not play out as it should in the real world. However, in the case of corporate tax reform, the evidence indicates that theory has, in the past, and can, in the future, reflect reality. When it comes to corporate tax rates, economic theory predicts that as taxes are reduced, firms will be encouraged to increase capital investment. Since capital and labor are often complementary, an increase in capital will result in higher productivity of labor and a greater demand for labor. Both increased productivity and increased demand for labor would be beneficial for the U.S. worker, raising wages. With its corporate tax rate of 35 percent, the United States is less competitive compared to other developed nations. Firms have chosen to move production abroad, reducing demand for U.S. workers. A lower corporate tax rate of 20 percent would encourage production to remain at home, likely increasing demand for laborand wages. CEA finds that workers, who have recently seen diminishing growth in their wages over the past decades, could see substantial increases in salary income and wage growth in the future if the corporate tax rate was reduced. Using studies by Felix (2009) and Desai et al. (2007) and 2016 data on income, CEA approximates that reducing the corporate tax rate to 20 percent would increase average household income by between $4,000 to $9,000, and median household income by between $3,000 and $9,000. CEA anticipates that these benefits would not just be in one year, but would continue until the new rate has been fully absorbed by the economy. Additionally, the burden of the corporate tax on workers affects their wages. Using past literature, CEA uses a 57 percent burden on labor. Critics of this choice believe that this burden is too high and inaccurate. Past estimates of the burden include 18 percent by the Treasury Department and 25 percent by the Joint Committee on Taxation. However, in todays world, capital is much more mobile than labor. Companies can move abroad far more easily than Americans, as can be seen by the wave of inversions over the past five years. The less mobile factor of productionnamely laborcarries the burden of the tax. Using the 57 percent estimate, CEA finds that for every 1 percent increase in the corporate tax rate, workers wages decline by 0.3 percent. Lowering the corporate tax rate would lead to an increase in wages. Finally, CEA analyzes the effect of the reduction on real wage growth. Since 2008, the median real household income has increased by 0.6 percent per year, and the average household income has increased by 1.1 percent per year. Had the corporate tax rate changed in 2008, the comparable growth rates would have been 2.0 percent per year for median real household income and 2.4 percent per year for average household income. These estimates are consistent with rates in OECD countries that have lower corporate tax rates. Although critics such as Harvard economics professor Lawrence Summers remain skeptical about the CEA study, other experts such as Stanford professor Edward Lazear agree that decreasing the corporate tax rate will benefit both upper- and middle-class workers. By tackling the corporate tax rate, Congress would be helping to increase U.S. growth and bring rates in line with those of other countries. We should all be on board. Emily Top is a research associate at Economics21. Interested in real economic insights? Want to stay ahead of the competition? Each weekday morning, E21 delivers a short email that includes E21 exclusive commentaries and the latest market news and updates from Washington. Sign up for the E21 Morning Ebrief. Transnational criminal activity ranges from trafficking in drugs, humans, wildlife, and firearms, to money-laundering and counterfeiting medicines, consumer goods, and other intellectual property. Organized crime causes serious harm to every society at every level; it spreads corruption and destabilizing governments; drains profits from legitimate manufacturers and vendors; and victimizes individuals in a variety of ways. The Administration of President Donald Trump considers the fight against transnational crime to be of primary importance. Of concern to the United States is the trafficking of drugs, particularly the production and trafficking of heroin and increased coca cultivation and cocaine production in the Americas. Illicit drug production and trafficking not only pose great risks to local communities in the U.S. and overseas, but also fuel transnational organized crime, corruption, money laundering, and cybercrime. The United States has a global interest and indeed, imperative, to help create a future where all nations can be prosperous and secure, said Deputy U.S. Representative to the UN Economic and Social Council Stefanie Amadeo. Through international cooperation, we can work toward achieving these goals. Criminals do not respect political boundaries or legal jurisdictions, so our prosecutors and investigators must increasingly look outside their own borders to find evidence, witnesses, and stolen assets, That is why President Trump has asked the U.S. government to strengthen efforts to dismantle transnational criminal groups, and align U.S. resources more effectively. But for this effort to succeed, all nations must tackle this problem together. We applaud the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the International Narcotics Control Board for taking steps to accelerate information sharing and analysis with regard to the many substances and precursor chemicals used to make synthetic opioids. We also support international drug demand reduction programs, as well as substance use disorders treatment that can improve quality of life and reduce associated violence. The United States is committed to addressing the corrupt behavior that helps drug traffickers, criminals, and terrorists flourish, said Deputy Representative Amadeo. We know that most solutions to drugs and crime will be found by doctors in emergency rooms that are flooded with overdose victims; police officials who respond to murders; investigators who trace links between drug traffickers, money laundering, and terrorists; and prosecutors who risk their lives to ensure that victims receive justice. The United States is committed to making sure they succeed. By PTI: the assailants Srinagar, Oct 16 (PTI) Militants shot dead a former sarpanch belonging to the ruling PDP in the Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir while the deceaseds family members killed one of the assailants in a scuffle during the attack late evening today, police said. "Three terrorists fired upon and killed ex-panch of PDP Mohammad Ramzan in Shopian," a senior police official said. advertisement He said the family members of the deceased entered into a scuffle with the assailants in which one of the militants was killed. The slain militant has been identified as Showkat Ahmad, a local resident, the official said. PTI MIJ ADS --- ENDS --- U.S. senior counterterrorism officials briefed reporters recently on the dangerous activities of the terrorist group Hezbollah, both worldwide and in the United States. Although it pretends to be a legitimate party, Hezbollahs penchant for violence has not changed for the last three decades, said Nicholas Rasmussen, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center. Americans first saw the deadly nature of the group, he noted, with the fatal attacks on the U.S. embassy and on the Marine barracks in Beirut in 1983: In 2012 the group carried out a bomb attack in Bulgaria that killed five Israeli tourists and one Bulgarian national, and a number of Hezbollah operatives have been caught laying the groundwork for attacks in places like Azerbaijan, in Egypt, in Thailand, in Cyprus, and in Peru, he said. Other instances of the groups deadly work include the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in 2005; the killing at least 84 Lebanese citizens and wounding of almost 200 more in Beirut in 2008; the ongoing buildup of weapons in Lebanon in violation of UN Security Council resolutions; the perpetuation of conflict across the Middle East in places like Iraq, Yemen and Syria. Concerning the homeland, Director Rasmussen cited the arrest in June of two individuals, one in New York and one in Michigan, who were operating on behalf of Hezbollahs international terrorist unit -- a stark reminder, he said, of the groups global attack on infrastructure, as well as its aspirations to potentially carry out attacks in the United States. U.S. Ambassador-at-Large and Coordinator for Counterterrorism Nathan Sales noted that Hezbollahs ability to become the global threat it is today is the result of the assistance it receives from one source -- Iran: The Iranian regime has built and bankrolled Hezbollah to foment instability throughout the region and across the world. This has all come at the expense of the Iranian people, whose resources are being diverted to support Hezbollahs bloody cause, and at the expense of Lebanon, which has suffered grievously from Iran and Hezbollahs deadly partnership. The people of Iran and the people of Lebanon deserve better than this, he said. Ambassador Sales promised that the United States and its allies will aggressively target Hezbollahs terrorist infrastructure and financial support networks: We will deny it the resources it needs to carry out its deadly attacks, and we will bring its leaders and operatives to justice. A balding man in jeans and glasses is standing at the kitchen stove stirring something with a wooden spoon. Artificial intelligence draws on its vast wealth of knowledge to label this image kitchen, stove, wooden spoon, woman the inference being that if someones cooking, its a woman. Image banks prove that a sexist bias can be programmed into machines Trondheim byarkiv Researchers at Virginia University have released a report confirming a frequent criticism that far from avoiding human prejudices, artificial intelligence compounds them. The investigation focused on two image banks commonly used to train computers to process images. In 33% of the photos of people cooking, the cooks were men. Following attempts to train the computer in recognition, the software continued to believe that 84% were women and only 16% were men. We know that technology fed on big data can enhance prejudice because the prejudice is implicit in the data, according to the report. The research shows that if sexual discrimination exists in the original data, predictive technology will identify and highlight it. Technology fed on big data at times can enhance prejudice because it is implicit in the data Virginia University researchers Take the case of Tay, the AI chatbot designed by Microsoft that was plugged in to Twitter so it would learn from other users. In less than 24 hours it was withdrawn, due to its Holocaust denials, abuse of other Twitter users and the defense of Donald Trumps wall, as it proceeded to mimic the worst of human bias in its tweets. There are many such examples of learning machines merely amplifying our prejudices, despite the promise that AI would eliminate human bias from the decision-making process. Google, for example, started to label black people as gorillas and Google maps searches for nigger house identified the White House during Obamas presidency. Similarly, black Flickr users were classified as chimpanzees while Apples intelligent personal assistant, the all-knowing Siri, is struck dumb when the phones owner mentions rape. The list goes on. Nikon software warns the photographer that someone has blinked when they are in fact photographing someone Asian. The HP WebCam can identify and follow white faces but not brown or black ones. And the first beauty contest judged by a computer picked just one dark-skinned contestant as a winner against 43 white ones. In America, Amazon fails to target African American neighborhoods for its top promotional campaigns and Facebook allows its advertisers to exclude ethnic minorities while including people they have identified as anti-Semitic and young people flagged up as vulnerable and depressed. Google began to label black people as gorillas and Flickr classified them as chimpanzees Promising efficiency and impartiality, algorithms distort education, increase debt, trigger mass imprisonment, hit the poor in every way possible and undermine democracy, says Cathy ONeil, the Harvard PhD and data scientist who wrote Weapons of Math Destruction, which explores the disastrous impact algorithms have had on society. Going to university, asking for a loan, being imprisoned or looking for and finding work all these areas of our lives are increasingly controlled by secret programs that deal out arbitrary punishment, she says. As ONeil points out, algorithm bias can be far more dangerous and far-reaching than human bias. Journalists from the investigative journalism organization ProPublica confirmed this some months ago when they discovered that a risk-assessment program used by the US justice system for prisoners was notably racist. Afro-American defendants were twice as likely to be labeled as potential reoffenders than their white counterparts and consequently treated more severely by the penal system. Meanwhile, the white defendants who did reoffend had been labeled low risk. Citizens, and of course prisoners, have no idea that their future is being decided by a flawed program that is as racist as the most bigoted judge. The only difference might lie in the sangfroid with which the racism is delivered. Research carried out by Carnegie Mellon University discovered that Google is less likely to make adverts for well-paid jobs visible to women. The programs used in the personnel departments of some companies are drawn to white names rather than names associated with ethnic minorities. The police authorities in a number of cities use programs to detect crime hotspots, leading to over-policing in these areas and a greater number of arrests, thereby perpetuating a negative cycle. And, of course, insurance policies are more expensive and less generous when it comes to payouts for residents of predominately black neighborhoods. The result is that we criminalize poverty, believing that our tools are not only scientific but impartial, says ONeil. Promising efficiency and impartiality, algorithms hit the poor in every way possible and undermine democracy Cathy ONeil, Harvard data scientist As ONeil points out in her book, while the algorithm dilemma is at times due to data selection and underlying social prejudice that the software flags up, the biggest problem is economic in nature. When they are designing systems to find clients or manipulate people in debt, increased profits appear to demonstrate that they are on the right path that the software is doing its job. The problem is that the benefits end up acting as a substitute for the truth, says ONeil, in what she calls a dangerous and recurrent mix-up. Facebook allows its algorithms to select and sell adverts to people who hate Jews and vulnerable adolescents because thats where the money is; if it pays, they can't be wrong. These problems have all been flagged up by journalists, researchers and institutions. But how can we be aware of the effects these algorithms are having on our daily lives? Most women will never realize that a job advert hasnt come their way. And most communities will remain oblivious to the fact they are over-policed because of biased software. According to ONeil, Facebook and Google, for example, recognize the problem and even explain it, but they become less cooperative when it comes to monitoring these biases. Each company prefers to keep its algorithms secret as if they were in possession of the tech equivalent of the Coca-Cola recipe. The software is doing its job. The problem is that the benefits end up acting as a substitute for the truth Cathy ONeil, Harvard data scientist If the algorithm is being used in the justice system, it should be transparent, accessible, debatable and amendable like the law itself. So say a growing number of specialist organizations, such as the Algorithm Justice League or AI Now, who insist that the problem with intelligent machinery is rampant social prejudice and not a Terminator-style apocalypse. And its not about to go away any time soon. Just days ago, algorithms were identifying homosexuals through facial recognition, sparking more controversy. In America, half the population has its face registered on facial recognition databases. Meanwhile, it transpires that the network giants are aware of our sexual orientation even if we don't use their network. We can't depend on the free market to correct these mistakes, says ONeil. English version by Heather Galloway. A judge from Spains High Court, the Audiencia Nacional, last night ordered two leaders of pro-Catalan independence organizations to be held in prison without bail as part of a court investigation into the pair over possible sedition. Jordi Cuixart (l), leader of Omnium, and Jordi Sanchez of ANC as they arrive at the High Court in Madrid. JAVIER BARBANCHO (REUTERS) Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart the leaders of the civic groups National Catalan Assembly (ANC) and Omnium, respectively spent their first night in jail last night due to their alleged role in the events of September 20 and 21. They are suspected of organizing protests on those dates aimed at stopping Civil Guard operations in Catalonia to seize material destined to be used at the October 1 illegal independence referendum in the northeastern Spanish region. Earlier on Monday evening, the same judge had decided not to jail the head of the Mossos dEsquadra regional police force, Josep Lluis Trapero, imposing instead precautionary measures such as taking his passport away and making him show up at court every two weeks. The same judge decided not to jail the head of the Mossos dEsquadra regional police force The pro-independence movement reacted angrily at the news. The Catalan government said that the judges decision to keep ANC and Omnium leaders in custody was the Popular Party (PP)s reaction to Catalan authorities offer of talks, expressed on Monday through a letter sent by Catalan premier Carles Puigdemont to Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy. This letter failed to answer the central governments question of whether independence has indeed been declared in Catalonia or not, following an ambiguous declaration made on Tuesday of last week. Meanwhile, the ANC sent pot-banging protesters out on the streets, and called workplace stoppages for Tuesday, as well as a candlelight demonstration at the corner of Passeig de Gracia and Diagonal Avenue in Barcelona. The city mayor, Ada Colau, described the decision to jail Cuixart and Sanchez as an outrage. Cuixart and Sanchez were sent to preventive prison without bail after the former opted not to speak before the judge in court and the second would only answer questions from his lawyer, Jordi Pina, who argued that all of the mobilizations led by his client were of a peaceful nature. Mossos d'Esquadra chief Josep Lluis Trapero leaving the High Court on Monday. Kiko Huesca (EFE) The magistrate, however, classed both pro-independence leaders who in the past have been behind major marches such as the Diada, held on Catalonias National Day on September 11 as the principal promoters and directors of the protests on September 20 and 21. Those days saw more than 40,000 people take to the streets, having been encouraged to do so via social networks and ANC and Omnium. Many congregated outside the regional governments economy department, to protest against the arrest of 11 senior figures from the Catalan administration who were allegedly behind the logistics of the illegal referendum. The altercations that took place during the protest posed serious difficulties for the court-ordered operations. A Barcelona court secretary present at the searches was forced to leave the economy department via a rooftop and later mingle among patrons who were leaving a theater next door. The protestors, meanwhile, destroyed three Civil Guard all-terrain vehicles that were on the site, causing damages valued at 135,600. The judge found that Cuixart and Sanchez were at the forefront of the protests all day, directing and encouraging the crowds outside the economy department, inciting them to stay on the site and giving orders on how to act at all times. The protestors destroyed three Civil Guard all-terrain vehicles The judge said that the events of September 20 and 21 were not an isolated citizen protest, but rather were part of a complex strategy in which Cuixart and Sanchez have been working together for some time in the execution of a road map designed to obtain the independence of Catalonia. The High Court judge believes that the events of September 20 and 21 were very serious and constitute the offense of sedition. The aim of the protest, the magistrate stated, was to impede functionaries from the justice system and Civil Guard officers complying with the orders of a judge. And after that objective, their aim was to achieve the celebration of the referendum on October 1, which had been suspended by the Constitutional Court, and proclaim the Catalan republic. English version by Simon Hunter. These are the responsibility of the editor and convey the newspaper's view on current affairs-both domestic and international Jordi Sanchez of ANC (L) and Jordi Cuixart of Omnium at the High Court. Jaime Villanueva On Monday, a judge from Spains High Court sent the leaders of two pro-Catalan independence organizations to prison without bail as part of an ongoing probe into accusations of sedition. Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart the leaders of the civic groups National Catalan Assembly (ANC) and Omnium, respectively spent their first night in jail last night, on accusations that they organized major protests and caused public disorder when, on September 20 and 21, they allegedly encouraged crowds to try to impede Civil Guard officers from carrying out a judicial order to search the Catalan regional governments economy department, to look for material and documents destined for the illegal independence referendum that was planned and eventually went ahead on October 1. This is a reminder that a serious violation of the law does not come without a price in a democratic state The protestors on the streets on those dates impeded the authorities from being able to exit the economy department, as well as causing damage to three Civil Guard all-terrain vehicles, at an estimated cost of 135,600. The severity of the judges decision on Monday has already prompted a response from the two mens organizations. But at the same time it is a reminder that a serious violation of the law does not come without a price in a democratic state. The head of the Mossos dEsquadra Catalan regional police force, Josep Lluis Trapero, who is also being investigated for sedition based on the same events, escaped jail yesterday, but was instructed by the judge to hand over his passport and to report to a court every two weeks, as well as being prohibited from traveling outside of Spain. The same precautionary measures were imposed on Mossos superintendent Teresa Laplana. These measures were considerably less harsh than the prison without bail that the public prosecutor was calling for. But they still cause considerable damage to the personal image of the Mossos chiefs, and are a stain on their reputations and on that of the entire force. These suspects continue to enjoy the presumption of innocence. But they are now accompanied by growing evidence of responsibility It is not every day in Europe that we see police chiefs accused of sedition, of rising up against the application of laws or court orders in a context of disorder. The legal concept is there to punish serious actions against public order: just the type of concept that the police and other authorities should defend. These suspects continue to enjoy the presumption of innocence. But they are now accompanied by growing evidence of responsibility. It corresponds to their free will if their continuance in their jobs undermines the proper working of the force that they are in charge of. This is something that, even before they do, their political leaders should consider: i.e. the regional interior chief, Joaquim Forn, and the director of the Mossos, Pere Soler, both of whom are prominent and noisy champions of anti-democratic subversion. It is hoped that the investigation analyze their actions, instructions and silences, such as countering the possible perception that the executors are paying the price for the chaos more than those on the front line who conjured it up, and are the ultimate instigators of this blow to legality. From our point of view, some of these figures the police chiefs under investigation and their political bosses should quit their roles in order to start reestablishing democratic normalcy in Catalonia. English version by Simon Hunter. Interior Minister Juan Ignacio Zoido at the G6 meeting in Seville on Monday. PACO PUENTES (EL PAIS) If there is any kind of agreement over Article 155 of the Spanish Constitution, it is that nobody knows exactly how to apply it. That is because this obscure provision, which has never been used since the Constitution came into force in 1978, does not specify the measures that fall within its scope. All sources consulted for this story agreed that the Spanish government is not overly enthusiastic about invoking Article 155 to curb the Catalan secession drive because nobody really knows how to carry it out: it has not been developed, and there are no supporting regulations. The role of the Mossos will be tested in the event of street mobilizations But if the central government finally resorts to this tool to force Catalan authorities to obey the law, there are three key agencies whose chiefs will likely get replaced first: the Catalan department of internal affairs, the Mossos dEsquadra police force and Civil Protection, the agency to protect civilians in the event of natural or man-made disasters. Article 155 states that if a self-governing region does not fulfill the obligations imposed upon it by the Constitution or other laws, or acts in a way that is seriously prejudicial to the general interest of Spain, the government, after having lodged a complaint with the premier of the self-governing region and failing to receive satisfaction therefore, may, following approval granted by the overall majority of the Senate, take all measures necessary to compel the region to meet said obligations, or to protect the above-mentioned general interest. People protesting court action against two pro-independence leaders being investigated for sedition. Marta Perez (EFE) What these necessary measures would be is left open to interpretation, but a technical team made up of politicians, security experts and jurists is currently working on fleshing out the provision, according to sources at the Office of the State Secretary for Security. The first measures will in all likelihood focus on taking control of Catalan agencies that deal with security issues. Initially, a low-key level of implementation is expected, said a high-ranking official from the Civil Guard. This would rule out a full-blown suspension of Catalan home rule, at least in the early stages. Initially, a low-key level of implementation is expected Civil Guard official The Spanish Interior Ministry has a list of potential measures in the event that Catalan premier Carles Puigdemont confirms that he has indeed declared unilateral independence in the region a fact that remains unclear following his ambiguous statement of last Tuesday. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy gave Puigdemont a deadline ending this week to confirm whether he has or hasnt declared independence and to drop his breakaway plans if he has. But on Monday, the Catalan leader sent back a letter ignoring the question, and instead offering to sit down to talks based on an alleged popular mandate to declare independence from Spain. Madrid has said that talks to reform the Constitution are possible, but first the Catalan government must abandon its secession project and return to the law. The deadlock makes it increasingly likely that Article 155 will soon be activated. The logical thing would be for the Catalan interior chief Joaquim Forn to lose his powers and have these taken over by the Interior Ministrys secretary of state for security, said these sources. Other sources said this role could be played by the central governments delegate in Catalonia, Enric Millo. Mossos d'Esquadra police chief Josep Lluis Trapero is to be replaced if Article 155 is invoked. Kiko Huesca (EFE) But the relationship between Millo and Interior Minister Juan Ignacio Zoido has been strained ever since the former publicly apologized for the police violence on October 1, when a banned referendum was held in the region. Zoido traveled to Catalonia and defended the actions of Spains law enforcement agencies. Also in line for a possible replacement are Mossos dEsquadra director Pere Soler and chief officer Josep Lluis Trapero, who is being investigated for sedition by Spains High Court, the Audiencia Nacional. Whoever takes over will be in charge of more than 14,000 officers who seem to be ideologically divided over their own role, following accusations of a pro-independence bias. Civil Protection chief Joan Delort could also get a substitute soon. The Mossos will remain in charge of preserving the peace, and this role will be tested in the event of street mobilizations of the kind being planned by grassroots activists with ties to ANC and Omnium whose heads have just been sent to jail without bail as part of a sedition probe as well as by anti-capitalist groups. Leaders of CUP, the anti-capitalist party whose 10 seats in the Catalan parliament have been supporting the minority government of Carles Puigdemont, are pressuring the latter to openly declare a Catalan republic. The basic role of the Mossos is to ensure that those people do not take the streets. They must guarantee public order, said Interior Ministry sources. If they fail to act against disturbances of the peace on state property, then the National Police or Civil Guard will automatically step in. There are still nearly 6,000 officers from these two law enforcement agencies stationed in Catalonia, where they are staying at hotels and on moored ferries as they await further instructions. English version by Susana Urra. Galicia, in Spains northwest, has for decades held the dubious honor of being a national leader when it comes serious fires. But now this fall, it is dealing with hellish blazes the likes of which it hasnt seen before. In the most dangerous wave of fires in recent history four people have died people who were trying to escape, who were fighting the flames, or protecting their livestock. Upward of 125 simultaneous outbreaks have also devastated thousands of hectares of land; the final number is not yet known. Currently, 23 fires remain active in the region. Residents of Abelenda das Penas put out fires. Brais Lorenzo (EFE) The outbreaks have caused panic in the urban area of Vigo, a city on the Atlantic coast, devouring houses, industrial buildings, cars, and natural areas. On Monday rain, wind and a drop in temperatures calmed the fires in Pontevedra province, but the battle lines moved to the bordering provinces of Lugo and Ourense. Upward of 125 simultaneous outbreaks have devastated the region. Currently, 23 fires remain active Meanwhile, beyond Galicia, in the neighboring region of Asturias, some 30 fires forced dozens of people to evacuate. Evidence indicates that a majority of the fires were intentionally lit and the regional government has decreed three days of mourning. Galician regional premier Alberto Nunez Feijoo says that the community is fighting against the impossible, while the opposition and environmentalists argue that the forestry policies of recent years have aggravated the magnitude of the destruction. On Monday night, despite the presence on the ground of 5,600 firefighters working to put out the fires and improved weather conditions, 50 fires remained active, nine of which presented a danger to populated areas. The intense smoke complicated the use of aerial technology due to low visibility. The wave of fires also affected Asturias, where around 30 outbreaks forced evacuations, road closures and the suspension of classes in 23 schools. Smoke also reached neighboring regions south of the fire. The best areas for brown bears are being burned. These are intentional fires that were meant to do damage, a lot of damage. Its dramatic, says Guillermo Palomero, president of the Brown Bear Foundation (FOP). Thousands of people risked their lives to defend their homes from the flames with hoses and buckets of water Thousands of people in the region woke up exhausted on Monday after an endless night of risking their lives to put out the flames using buckets of water and water hoses to defend their homes. In Vigo, at mid-morning on Monday only two of the 20 outbreaks that surrounded the city were yet to be extinguished. About 400 people were evacuated. Municipalities south of Pontevedra, found that in some cases the fires had destroyed 90% of their territory. In Nigran, a city on the northern coast, Marcelina Iglesia and Angelina Otero both died on Sunday night when they fled their house by car and got trapped on a highway. That same night, in Vigo, a 70-year-old died after falling while trying to extinguish a fire. In Carballeda de Avia, a city in western Galica, Marcelino Martinez, 78, lost his life trying to save his animals. The authorities have asked for help from residents to help find the perpetrators of the fires. So far, no arrests have been made. Incendiary terrorism The fires, said Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, have not happened by chance. Rajoy visited the devastated areas yesterday, accompanied by the Galician regional premier. Both called for political action in 2006 when Galicia suffered from a similar string of fires. They are now calling it incendiary terrorism. Residents watch on as a fires burns near the Os Ancares natural reserve. Eliseo Trigo (EFE) There is intention to do harm, Feijoo said. Galicia did not burn on its own, someone burned it. Rain and a drop in temperature took a while to arrive in the Ourense and Lugo provinces. In inland Galicia, fires have devastated thousands of hectares of rural areas, places of key environmental value such as the Peneda-Xures Natural Park, an area declared a Biosphere Reserve. The fire also hit the meadowlands of O Courel, located in the eastern mountains of Lugo province, and the forested Os Ancares region on the border of Galicia and Castilla y Leon. Beside these natural reserves, the flames have also destroyed the Ribeira Sacra, a canyon region that is home to the highest concentration of Romanesque architecture in Europe. The threat of fires forced countless villages to be evacuated, although some residents resisted doing so, clinging to the defense of their only assets: their homes and animals. Galicia did not burn on its own, someone burned it Galician regional premier Alberto Nunez Feijoo The Xures Biosphere Reserve, on the Portugal border, is no stranger to fires. For decades, summer wildfires have blighted the region. So far this fall, fires have devastated more than 800 hectares in the area. In Os Ancares, the government had believed a fire that started last Thursday was under control, but the flames returned, destroying more than 2,000 hectares of the natural reserve. The Galician countryside is now a desolate landscape. English version by Debora Almeida. The Omnium Cultural association, which is in favor of Catalan independence, has published a video in English with the title Help Catalonia. Save Europe. The video denounces the Spanish central government for attacking what it describes as Catalan human rights. The recording takes inspiration from a Ukrainian video that was circulated in February 2014, and which called on the European Union (EU) for help in the face of a serious crisis that the country was going through at the time. The I am a Ukrainian video. The propaganda-style video portrays Catalonia in almost a state of war, where residents of the northeastern Spanish region are submitted to supposed state repression. A woman speaks in anguish on behalf of all Catalans to a European audience to call on the EU not to forget about the region. These are the falsehoods contained within the video: In Catalonia, the values of freedom, democracy, human rights and social rights are being attacked Spain is an advanced democracy that guarantees the freedoms of all its citizens and respects individual and collective rights. The courts uphold the rule of law and the division of powers. In addition, the country has signed all United Nations agreements on human rights and freedoms, is a member of the European Union and the Council of Europe, and is a signatory of all agreements on human rights and freedom of the latter two bodies. Freedom House, an organization that promotes freedom and human rights, awarded Spain a score of 94 out of 100 on political and civil rights. What crime had these people committed? Going out to vote The video refers to the independence referendum held on October 1, previously suspended by the Constitutional Court. It suggests that the National Police and Civil Guard intervention was aimed at preventing citizens right to vote. But in fact, the police were enforcing a judicial ruling to prevent the referendum, which was illegal. They did this in the face of the inaction of the regions police force, the Mossos dEsquadra, who refused to act. Hechos blog This article was originally posted on the EL PAIS Hechos (facts) blog, which aims to analyze and pick apart fake news and falsehoods. The Spanish Government declared the vote illegal In Spain, the executive branch does not have the power to outlaw a referendum. It was the Constitutional Court, the ultimate interpreter of the Spanish Constitution, that suspended the poll on independence from going ahead. Thousands of police were sent to raid pro-independence media offices and shut down hundreds of websites The police did not attack the media or shut down websites. What happened between September 30 and October 1 was that Civil Guard officers entered the Catalan Center for Telecommunications and Information Technology (CTTI) to comply with the order from the Catalan regional High Court to block websites that tried to facilitate the poll and the vote count. Officers had previously entered the offices of the weekly newspaper El Vallenc because ballot papers were being printed there. The police arrested 14 Catalan government officials without any court orders This is a completely false statement. The Civil Guard arrested 14 people on September 20 for their alleged participation in the organization of the independence referendum. Of those, 11 occupied a public role, while three were private citizens who were arrested for their alleged involvement of the illegal poll. They were the director of a multinational, the manager of an advertising agency, and the owner of a warehouse where referendum voting slips were found. The officers did not act without a court order. A judge in Barcelona ordered the operation. Spanish police used a degree of force never before seen in a European Union member state The government sent the National Police and the Civil Guard to stop the independence referendum from going ahead on October 1. Human Rights Watch has stated that on some occasions the officers used excessive force in the three analyzed cases on the day of the vote. Those were in the Catalan city of Girona, in Barcelona, and in a town in Girona province. The European Commission denounced the violence exercised by the police at some polling stations. Indeed, the images from that day show that there were injuries as a result of the police charge. However, the regional government stated that 893 people were injured and that this number of injuries has not existed in Europe since World War II. That total is questionable, because out of all those people, only four needed hospital treatment, two with minor injuries and two in a serious condition. Just to cite a recent case, the G-20 riots held last July in Hamburg resulted in the injuries of around 1,000 people. 90% of Catalans voted in favor of independence This figure is distorted, and refers to the result made public by the Catalan government. But the vote took place without any democratic guarantees and as such the count cannot be validated. It cannot be assumed that 90% of Catalans are in favor of independence. According to data from the Catalan government, 2,286.217 people voted out of a total census of 5,313,564, meaning that participation was at 43.03% of the total census. Of these, 90.18% (2,044,038 people) voted yes to independence. That means that only 38.47% of the census voted yes to independence. It concerns each and every European citizen The video insists on involving Europe in the Catalan question. However, all EU institutions have concluded that this is internal Spanish matter. The president of the European Commission, Jean Claude Juncker, has stated that the Commission complies with what the Constitution and the Spanish parliament says. The president of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, has stressed that, if a part of a member state proclaims itself independent, it automatically becomes a third state and leaves the European Union. We, as Catalans The woman who appears in the video claims to speak on behalf of all Catalans. The massive demonstration in Barcelona on October 8 in Barcelona, which was called in defense of the Spanish Constitution and the unity of Spain, shows that not all Catalans subscribe to the sentiments expressed in the video. English version by Debora Almeida. The Spanish Constitutional Court in Madrid. Victor Sainz Spains Constitutional Court on Tuesday unanimously confirmed that the referendum law passed by the Catalan parliament on September 6 is unconstitutional, and devoid of any binding legal force. The law had already been on hold since September 7, when the court pre-emptively suspended it while it considered the case ahead of the referendum, which was ultimately held on October 1. Catalan citizens are at the mercy of a power that says it recognizes no limits The decision finds that the unprecedented and arbitrary way in which the pro-independence majority in the Catalan chamber rammed the bill through without proper debate committed very serious violations of legislative procedure. The entire opposition within the Catalan parliament walked out in protest when the bill was put to the vote. The minority government of Junts pel Si, a pro-independence coalition that gets legislative support from a small anti-capitalist party called CUP, drafted this bill in order to provide a legal framework for an independence referendum that had already been banned by the Constitutional Court. Another controversial piece of legislation paving the way for a transition to an independent republic was passed two days later in a similar fashion. Overreach In its decision, the court states that the referendum law encroaches upon state powers on referendum-type consultations, and violates the supremacy of the Constitution, national sovereignty and the indissoluble unity of the Spanish nation. Under the Spanish Constitution, referendums may only be held at the national, not regional, level. The Catalan referendum law skirted this rule, while the transition law awarded itself a higher position on the legal hierarchy than the Constitution itself. Deputies inside the Catalan parliament exhibiting Spanish and Catalan flags. Albert Garcia The court notes that whether Catalonia remains or not a part of Spain is not the sole decision of residents of Catalonia, but of all citizens of Spain. The court adds that constitutional reform is possible, but only through the channels established for that purpose not outside the law. Regional parliaments may request such a move. By acting outside these channels, the Catalan parliament has placed itself outside the law and left Catalan citizens at the mercy of a power that says it recognizes no limits. The referendum was held on October 1 despite the ban, and members of the National Police and Civil Guard were sent in to ensure that voting didnt take place, after the regional police force failed to take action. Images of riot officers confronting crowds of would-be voters made world headlines and prompted accusations of police violence. 112 search Also on Tuesday, Civil Guard officers entered the central building of the 112 emergency services in the Catalan city of Reus in search of telephone recordings from October 1, according to police sources. The officers presence was part of a court investigation into the illegal independence referendum held that day, the High Court of Catalonia (TSJC) said in a statement. The operation is part of a judges probe into whether the regional police force, Mossos dEsquadra, failed to take sufficient action to prevent the referendum from being held, despite having received explicit court orders to confiscate ballot boxes. The 112 headquarters in Reus. Josep Lluis Sellart All emergency calls made to 112 are recorded. The court had told Mossos leaders to preserve any relevant conversations from October 1 and turn them over on Tuesday. Civil Guard officers entered the premises at 9am and left three and a half hours later. This investigation is separate from another one taking place at Spains High Court, which is examining charges of sedition against Mossos chief Josep Lluis Trapero, who had his passport confiscated on Monday. Meanwhile, the Mossos have informed the High Court of Catalonia, which is seeing its own case against the Catalan government over October 1, that they have launched an internal investigation to determine whether any officers deliberately ignored orders from their superiors. English version by Susana Urra. The prosecutor-general for Mashhad in Khorasan Razavi Province in northeast Iran says a man convicted of robbery has had his hand amputated. The convict, collaborating with his younger brother, robbed a jewelry shop nearly six years ago, when he was 25 years old, announced ultraconservative Prosecutor-General Gholam Ali Sadeqi. On October 14, the Khorasan newspaper quoted Sadeqi as saying, The thiefs hand was amputated on Thursday while justice department officials and physicians were present at Mashhads central prison. Sadeqi described the punishment as executing Gods chastening. The convicts younger brother, who was 22 at the time of the crime, was sentenced to ten years in prison and 74 lashes. To provide security, the judiciary has a firm position vis-a-vis thieves who steal people's belongings, Sadeqi affirmed. In an interview with Radio Fardas Baktash Khamsehpour, renowned veteran Iranian lawyer Ahmad Bashiri confirmed that, based on the Islamic code, punishment by amputation is still practiced in Iran. Bashiri, a prominent judge before Irans 1979 revolution, said, As long as the Islamic penal code rules over Irans justice system, punishment by amputation of organs will also continue. Earlier, the state-run Radio and TV had reported that the hands of three thieves had been amputated in the city of Qom, south of the capital, Tehran. According to the deputy prosecutor-general of Qom, Youniss Davoudi, the amputations took place last month at Qoms central prison. In another interview with Radio Farda, U.S.-based Iranian lawyer and human rights activist Mehrangiz Kar criticized the punishment. Had pre-Islamic revolution Iranian laws been reinstated, many of the countrys internal and international problems would have been addressed, he said. International human rights organizations have repeatedly condemned amputation as punishment in Iran, calling it barbaric and against international conventions. The Convention Against Torture, the most important international human rights treaty dealing exclusively with torture, obligates signatory countries to prohibit and prevent torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment under all circumstances. Though Islamic Republic has been long a party to the International Covenant on Civil And Political Rights, but has not signed The International Convention Against Torture. Meanwhile, Iranian law based on the Islamic Penal Code, does not recognize amputation of criminals as torture. In some cases, Iranian diplomats have been forced to defend the Islamic penal code. In 2008, Irans ambassador to Spain defended amputation as punishment, saying it was akin to stopping the spread of gangrene in Iranian society. Our laws allow for the amputation of the hand that steals. This is not accepted by the West, but the field of human rights should take into account customs, traditions, religion, and economic development, Davoud Salehi maintained at the time. Meanwhile, some judges in Iran prefer to ignore the Islamic penal code by avoiding sentencing robbers and burglars to amputating their hands. Nevertheless, ultraconservative judges insist on issuing verdicts based on what they say is Gods will. Prosecutor-generals like Sadeqi go further than that and compare themselves with the Almighty. A while ago, a friend of mine asked me why I get involved in everything. Therefore, I should emphasize here that the domain of the prosecutor-generals authorities is only one phalanx smaller than that of Almighty God, Sadeqi declared earlier this month. Mohsen Kadivar, an Iranian Islamic scholar and author based in the United States, recently weighed in on Sadeqis comments on his website, pointing out, Such remarks are an indication to the insatiable greed of the officials of the Islamic Republic for more power and authority. The prosecutor-general and his seniors do not seek the definition of their authority in the constitution. They arbitrarily interpret cases and conclude that the domain of their authority is only one phalanx smaller than Gods, Kadivar reiterated. More than four years ago, Iran became the first country to use a finger-cutting machine to punish those convicted of stealing. A video, showing the newly invented machine, was widely circulated on social media. The images showed the amputation of a prisoners finger. The man was convicted of robbery in the southwest city of Shiraz, according to Iran Students News Agency. In the images, the blindfolded man is led to the machine by three masked and hooded executioners. As two officials hold his arms, the third inserts his hand into the machine. The head of the judiciary in Iran is directly appointed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and is accountable only to him. Irans prosecutors have a wide range of powers and, besides the right to prosecute citizens they can also block government measures, decisions, and plans. A special committee has been formed to investigate the scandal in Tehran Municipality called Astronomical Property Sellout,, Mayor Mohammad Ali Najafi disclosed at his first press conference. Reportedly, during the tenure of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf at Tehran Municipality, estates worth billions of dollars were generously distributed among city councilors and municipal staff. The estates and properties were not sold using proper channels, such as City Hall Property Agency, Najafi maintained, vowing details would be published after further investigation. Meanwhile, the newly installed mayor said, I believe the published report that revealed the astronomical properties [scandal] was partly wrong and should be corrected." Furthermore, he insisted that several people who were named and accused on the list of people benefiting from the scandal are not guilty and should be rehabilitated." However, Najafi noted there are several guilty parties whose names are missing from the list. As a matter of fact, we were not able to collect precise information on the case," he conceded. Corruption in holding bids and offers, employing an inefficient work force in management levels as well as employing retired and disabled people are examples of deeply rooted fraud in Tehran Municipality. In an interview with Students News Agency (ISNA), Morteza Alviri, a former mayor of Tehran (1999-2002), had said the scandalous case of astronomical estates was the tip of the iceberg." Corruption in holding bids and offers, employing an inefficient work force in management levels as well as employing retired and disabled people are examples of deeply rooted fraud in Tehran Municipality, Alviri said on August 14. The scandal was first disclosed in 2016 when a pro-reform website, Memari News, reported on Aug. 27 that it had received documents indicating that 1,100,000 square meters (110 square hectares) of state-owned properties had been sold to various individuals, including people close to power bases in Iran. 250 names, including the names of several Tehrans municipality staff and city councilors, were listed in the report as those who benefited the scam. According to the article, the names of the individuals and the specific properties involved were leaked in a document from the State General Inspection Office. The General Inspection Office had reportedly written a letter to the Mayors office and the Tehran City Council about the case. Former mayor Qalibaf immediately dismissed any wrong doing, insisting that everything had been done under the necessary permits and strictly according to the law and regulations. Soon, the leak turned into the worst nightmare ever for the conservative Mayor who was preparing himself to challenge the moderate incumbent, Hassan Rouhani, in the 2017 presidential election. Tehrans Prosecutor-General office named Najafi, Rouhanis close ally, as one of the whistle blowers who disclosed the astronomical estates sell-out scandal. Nevertheless, Najafi dismissed the claim, maintaining, I even suggested to keep the letter [report disclosing the scandal] confidential and wait for Tehran Municipality's explanation. But, at the same day, our dear brother,' who was present at the session and I prefer not to name him, passed a copy of the report to Yashar Soltani. Three days later, the report [on the astronomical estates sell-out scandal] was published on cyberspace." Explaining the procedure for investigation of the scandal, Najafi told reporters that "Qalibaf had appointed one of his special consultants, who was in charge of all legal cases for City Hall, as the liaison between the municipality and the Justice Department." The liaison, according to the new mayor, was Tehran Municipalitys middleman for investigating the scandal at the justice department, until recently. Without naming the liaison, Najafi disclosed, I wrote a letter to Tehrans prosecutor-general, officially declaring that the middleman is not representing the municipality and he has not filed any report for City Hall." By PTI: police Srinagar, Oct 17 (PTI) A mob instigated by anti-national elements and over ground workers of the Hizbul Mujahideen militant group today set on fire a house belonging to a slain PDP leader, who was gunned down by militants in the Shopian district of south Kashmir. Mohammed Ramzan Sheikh, a former sarpanch, was killed by militants last night at his house located at Humhuna of Shopian. advertisement Sheikhs family members had a scuffle with the assailants in which one of the militants identified as Showkat Ahmed was also killed. As the mourners were gathering at the residence of Sheikh, a mob mainly comprising of over ground workers of Hizbul Mujahideen and other anti-national elements attacked the house, police said. Immediately, police swung into action and rescued the family members which included Sheikhs mother, Rafiqa, wife Nusrat Begum, brother Farooq Ahmed Sheikh, his two sons and two daughters. Terming it as inhumane, Director General of Police S P Vaid said, "The family had not even condoled the death of their loved one properly before such a senseless act instigated by terrorists was perpetrated on them in less than 24 hours." "Tears of two small daughters and two sons may not have dried off their cheeks and they had to witness inhumanity once again. Its a shameless act," Vaid said. He said that an FIR has been registered against the rioters. Strict action as per law will be take against those involved in the incident, Vaid said. PTI SKL MIJ ASK ASK --- ENDS --- Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: Armenias President Serzh Sargsyan is in his character again, Novruz Mammadov, assistant to Azerbaijans president for foreign policy issues, department head, tweeted Oct 17. Mammadov commented on the statement of the Armenian president following the Geneva meeting of the Azerbaijani and Armenian presidents on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict resolution. Alas, Serzh Sargsyan is in his character again. As usual, he feels privileged to violate the agreement that was reached during the talks. The deal was that no statements were to be made other than on agreed points. Yet he did just the contrary. Again, he made a promise and then failed to honor it, noted Mammadov. He should have at least been embarrassed, given the presence of the co-chairs and the OSCE representative. Apparently, he does not want to give up his habit of derailing the talks. Nevertheless, he is aware and must not forget that the Nagorno-Karabakh is Azerbaijans inalienable part and will remain so. Sargsyans plan will be realized neither in his lifetime, nor during the ones of his successors. His dream will never become a reality, no matter how hard he wags his tail to his patrons, added the top official. Seemingly, he aims to keep the people in Armenia in the state of constant agitation and suffering. Well, let him keep on trying. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Gulgiz Muradova - Trend: Poland supports the construction of the Southern Gas Corridor as a means to supply south-east Europe with gas alternative to the dominant Russian supplier, said Polish Foreign Minister Witold Waszczykowski. Waszczykowski, talking to Trend ahead of his Baku visit, stressed that his country looks forward to Azerbaijan contribution, thanks to its raw material potential, to the deepening of Europe's energy security. The Southern Gas Corridor will allow 10 billion cubic metres of Caspian gas per year to be exported from Caspian Region to European countries. It is not a big volume, but it is the foundation for further expansion and cooperation, he said. The minister said that the common goal should be both to promote Azerbaijani energy independence and to seek new sources of gas for the Southern Gas Corridor, which will further strengthen its real potential for diversification in south-east Europe currently dominated by the Russian supplier. The $40 billion Southern Gas Corridor is an EU initiative to reduce Europes dependency on Russian gas. The SGC project a series of pipelines which will carry Azerbaijans Shah Deniz gas to Europe is a unique project opening up route for Caspian energy sources. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 16 By Ilhama Isabalayeva Trend: Impunity of persons, who illegally visited Nagorno-Karabakh, may negatively affect the Azerbaijan-Turkey relations, Elman Nasirov, member of the Azerbaijani parliament, told Trend Oct. 16. The MP noted that the illegal visits by four Turkish citizens to Azerbaijans Nagorno-Karabakh region, occupied by the Armenian armed forces, holding of numerous meetings there, anti-Azerbaijani and anti-Turkish statements, as well as speeches about this trip on Turkish TV channels when the relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey are at the level of strategic alliance is a circumstance that casts shadow on friendship and brotherhood between Azerbaijan and Turkey. On September 22, Turkish citizens Ufuk Uras, Ali Bayramoglu, Said Cekinoglu and Erol Katircioglu illegally visited Azerbaijans Nagorno-Karabakh region, occupied by the Armenian armed forces. Earlier, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that the illegal visit of Turkish citizens to the occupied Azerbaijani territories did not reflect Ankaras official policy. Grave Crimes Investigation Department of the Azerbaijani Prosecutor General's Office filed a criminal case under the Criminal Codes Article 318.2 (illegally crossing Azerbaijans state borders). All four individuals are accused under the abovementioned article. A measure of restraint in the form of arrest was chosen against them. They were declared internationally wanted. An appeal was sent to the Turkish law enforcement to detain the four individuals. 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, Oct. 17 By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend: The summit of Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev and his Armenian counterpart Serzh Sargsyan in Geneva is a diplomatic success of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani MP Aydin Mirzazade told Trend. He noted that Armenia set impossible conditions for holding talks with Azerbaijan on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, but then it stepped away from these conditions and started negotiating. The agreement achieved by the presidents to continue negotiations and take steps to reduce tensions shows that in the talks, the issue of Azerbaijans territorial integrity is considered as the main principle, and Armenia understands that today the continuation of occupation policy is a big blow to its interests in the first place, the MP noted. After talks, Armenia repeatedly chose to violate the reached agreements, and the near future will show how the country is ready for constructive steps, he added. President Aliyev and President Sargsyan held a summit in Geneva, Switzerland on Oct. 16. A joint statement by the Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministers and the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group following the Geneva meeting of the two presidents said that the meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere. The presidents agreed to take measures to intensify the negotiation process over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts settlement and to take additional steps to reduce tensions on the line of contact between the two countries troops. 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, Oct. 17 By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend: Hearings on the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, planned to be held by the US Helsinki Commission on October 18, serve only Armenias interests, Azerbaijani MP Elman Nasirov told Trend Oct. 17. "We know about Christopher Smith, who heads the Helsinki Commission, he said. He holds a pro-Armenian position. Smith actively participated in the adoption of the Section 907 of the US Freedom Support Act on October 24, 1992." According to the Section 907, the US government was prohibited from assisting the Azerbaijani official organizations, he added. Smith also actively promoted the issue of recognition of so-called Armenian genocide in the international arena and in the parliaments of some countries. Smiths activity is directed against Azerbaijan and Turkey. The main purpose of those hearings on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is primarily to achieve the allocation of more funds for Armenia and the separatist regime created by Armenia, strengthen its positions and maximally keep status quo in the conflict settlement, he said. "These events are not new for Azerbaijan, he said. The Azerbaijani public is aware about the forces behind these events. These forces do not want Azerbaijan's development, social and political stability and security in the country. Their goal is to create chaos in the country but their intentions will never come true. 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, Oct. 17 By Ilhama Isabalayeva Trend: Azerbaijani MP Bakhtiyar Sadikhov has commented on the meeting of Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev with his Armenian counterpart Serzh Sargsyan in Geneva. If no difference was made between an aggressor and a side that suffered from aggression, if nothing was said about withdrawal of troops from foreign lands at the meeting, this means that the meeting has no concrete results, Sadikhov told Trend Oct. 17. He believes the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs will once again assess the meeting using usual phrases, declare the importance of new meetings and note that this issue will be discussed again at another meeting. All these are common words that we have heard before, he said. These are elements of the activity of the OSCE. If no steps are taken to implement the four UN Security Council resolutions, if there are no statements about taking any measures in the near future, if the parties dont undertake any commitments, and if the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs dont say how they will monitor fulfillment of these commitments, it means that the meeting is fruitless, the MP said. He added that the Armenian president wouldnt have come to the meeting if not for the April events of last year. It means that Sargsyan is afraid, Sadikhov said. Azerbaijan will not abandon its principled position. On the night of April 2, 2016, all the frontier positions of Azerbaijan were subjected to heavy fire from the Armenian side, which used large-caliber weapons, mortars and grenade launchers. The armed clashes resulted in deaths and injuries among the Azerbaijani population. Azerbaijan responded with a counter-attack, which led to liberation of several strategic heights and settlements. 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, Oct. 17 By Samir Ali Trend: Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan resorts to any provocation to preserve the status quo in the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Azerbaijani MP Tahir Karimli told Trend Oct. 17. The Azerbaijani MP said that for this purpose, the current Armenian leadership violates all diplomatic norms. "The Armenian president knows that Azerbaijans territorial integrity will be restored, Karimli said. The whole world has recognized Nagorno-Karabakh region as an integral part of Azerbaijan, therefore the Armenian president avoids diplomatic negotiations. President Sargsyan avoids negotiations for Azerbaijan to start to liberate its lands by military means and then Armenia will say again that Azerbaijan is disrupting negotiations, while the Armenian side allegedly agrees on a peaceful settlement of the conflict, he said. "Azerbaijan is trying to resolve the conflict peacefully and the whole world is aware about it, Karimli said. President Sargsyan resorts to similar methods for the international organizations to exert more pressure on Azerbaijan." Meanwhile, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan met in Geneva on October 16. 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, Oct. 17 By Ali Mustafayev Trend: Recently, Russia provided Yerevan with an export loan to finance the supply of military equipment to Armenia worth $100 million. This act of Moscow is rather contradictory and even violating the country's obligations as a co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, which is engaged in peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. As we know, Russia provides Armenia with weapons at domestic price under the Collective Security Treaty (CST) and this applies to all the countries involved in the CST. Russia also realizes successful sales of weapons to Azerbaijan, Alexander Golts, military analyst, chief editor at Daily Journal (www.ej.ru), told Trend. Speaking about Russia's policy regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Golts noted that Moscow is trying to repeat the British policy of the 19th century, when British arms were usually supplied to both conflicting sides in order to maintain a balance between them, so that Britain would have the final say in such conflicts. Arms trade is probably the most politicized type of trade. The arms selling country has a serious impact on the policy of the country that purchases those arms. The new loan to Armenia aims to maintain the balance, so that none of the sides could use its military superiority over the other one, Golts said. The analyst stressed that Armenia does not have the ability to pay for the weapons in advance, and Russia, in fact, pays to its own weapon developing plants. Azerbaijan conducted a quite successful military operation in 2016. Russia was one of the first countries to join the peacekeeping process to prevent military actions, since an armed conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia would be a collapse of the entire trans-Caucasian policy of Russia. On the night of April 2, 2016, all the frontier positions of Azerbaijan were subjected to heavy fire from the Armenian side, which used large-caliber weapons, mortars and grenade launchers. The armed clashes resulted in deaths and injuries among the Azerbaijani population. Azerbaijan responded with a counter-attack, which led to liberation of several strategic heights and settlements. 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, Oct. 17 Trend: The Austrian OSCE Chairmanship closely followed the meeting of the President of the Republic of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, and the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, organized under the auspices of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group in Geneva on 16 October, said in the statement of the chairmanship, posted on OSCE official website. We are pleased to see the fresh impetus and commitment by the presidents to take measures to intensify the negotiation process and seek additional steps to reduce tensions on the line of contact, a spokesperson of the OSCE Chairmanship said. "The Chairmanship hopes this renewed engagement will be reflected in concrete steps to peacefully resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Planning for peace should be the focus of the endeavours. Represented by Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on the conflict dealt with by the OSCE Minsk Conference, the Chairmanship underlines its continued readiness to further support the efforts for peace on all sides", he stressed 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, Oct. 17 Trend: UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres welcomed the meeting of the Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia, held in Geneva on Monday, said by the official representative of the UN Secretary General Stefan Dujarrik. He noted that the head of the world organization "welcomes the summit in Geneva". "He is encouraged that the presidents agreed to take measures to intensify the negotiation process and take additional steps to reduce tensions on the contact line," Dujarrik said in a statement. The Secretary-General reiterates the United Nations support for the ongoing mediation efforts of the Co-Chairs and encourages the sides to build on the positive momentum created by this summit to reach a peaceful negotiated settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Guterres stressed that the UN supports the mediation efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs and called upon the sides, based on the positive momentum of the summit summit, to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during the talks." 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. By PTI: police (Photos: PTI10_17_2017_000085B, PTI10_17_2017_000086B) Srinagar, Oct 17 (PTI) In less than 24 hours, tragedy struck PDP leader Mohammed Ramzan Sheikhs family twice at a his village in south Kashmir. He fell to Hizbul Mujahideen militants bullets last night and his house was torched by miscreants today to punish his family members for killing one of the two militants, who had barged into his home. advertisement Sheikh, a former sarpanch and a PDP worker, was gunned down by militants at his residence in Humhuna in Shopian district. A mob, mainly instigated by over ground workers of Hizbul Mujahideen, today attacked Sheikhs house while his family was grieving his death, the police said. "Its simply inhumane. The tears of his kin had not even dried when they had to run for cover for their own lives. The family had not even condoled the death of their loved one properly before such a senseless act instigated by terrorists was perpetrated on them in less than 24 hours," Director General of state police S P Vaid said. "Tears of two small daughters and two sons may not have dried off their cheeks and they had to witness inhumanity once again. Its a shameless act," he said. Sheikhs family members had a scuffle with the assailants in which one of the militants identified as Showkat Ahmed was also killed. As the mourners were gathering at the residence of Sheikh, a mob mainly comprising of over ground workers of Hizbul Mujahideen and other anti-national elements attacked the house, the police said. Immediately, police swung into action and rescued the family members which included Sheikhs mother, Rafiqa, wife Nusrat Begum, brother Farooq Ahmed Sheikh, his two sons and two daughters. Vaid said an FIR has been registered against those who attacked Sheikhs house. Strict action as per law will be take against those involved in the incident, Vaid said. PTI SKL MIJ ASK ASK --- ENDS --- Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: A meeting between Azerbaijans Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, Chief of the Turkish General Staff, General Hulusi Akar and Chief of the Georgian General Staff, Major General Vladimer Chachibaia will be held in Tbilisi on Oct. 17. The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said in a message that the parties will discuss the development of cooperation in the trilateral format and the role of armed forces in ensuring regional stability. There will also be an exchange of views on the implementation of practical activities in ensuring the security of regional projects and other issues. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: A meeting with the participation of Azerbaijan's Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, the Chief of the General Staff of the Turkish Republic, General of the Army Hulusi Akar and the Chief of the General Staff of the Georgian Armed Forces, Major General Vladimer Chachibaia was held in Tbilisi on October 17. The military-political situation in the region, regional security issues were discussed in detail and the exchange of views on the prospects for tripartite military cooperation was held, the defense ministry reported. Noting the negative impact of international terrorism and aggressive separatism on peace, stability and development in the region, the sides stressed the importance of joint actions to confront threats directed against the security of states. The heads of the Armed Forces considered the prospects for military cooperation, the holding of tripartite military exercises and a number of other areas of joint activity. The meeting ended with signing of a joint protocol. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Leman Zeynalova - Trend: US has been and continues to be interested in a strategic partnership with Azerbaijan, including a mutually beneficial commercial relationship, said the US ambassador to Azerbaijan Robert Cekuta. He made the remarks while addressing the Amcham meeting in Baku Oct. 17. The ambassador noted that economic prosperity and success can create building blocks and future opportunities across the full spectrum of the US-Azerbaijan partnership. The trade mission here today with close to 27 representatives from 14 companies, plus the Overseas Private Investment Corporation and senior Commerce Department officials, is another sign of that continued interest, said Cekuta. The ambassador pointed out that US assistance to Azerbaijan over the past 25 years exceeds $1.3 billion, including extensive support for economic development in rural areas. Cekuta further added that his country's engagement with Azerbaijan on the economic front has been extremely strong, while the US has supported Azerbaijan's non-oil diversification efforts. He went on to add that the US-based companies are involved in Azerbaijans retail, consulting, agriculture, consumer goods, aviation, engineering, software and hydrocarbon sectors and in many other areas. We continue to support reform efforts. In an effort that benefits both our countries, we have worked with the Azerbaijani government to draft laws and regulations for tax, customs, intellectual property rights, food safety and financial sector reforms, said the ambassador, adding that these steps enable US companies to export goods and services better and more efficiently to the Azerbaijani market. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend: Turkey should increase attention to the issue related to the countrys citizens who illegally visited Azerbaijans Nagorno-Karabakh region occupied by the Armenian armed forces, Azerbaijani MP Elman Mammadov told Trend Oct. 17. He said that the four Turkish citizens who betrayed their people and Turkic states, illegally visited Nagorno-Karabakh region, and then went to Yerevan, and upon their return to their homeland, conditions were created on some Turkish TV and radio channels, newspapers for them to praise Armenia and the criminal group in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The Turkish government claims that the position of these people doesnt reflect Turkeys position, Mammadov said. Why are these people allowed to conduct media propaganda in support of Armenian aggression? Turkey and Azerbaijan are friendly, fraternal states. Belarus extradited blogger Alexander Lapshin, who illegally crossed Azerbaijans state border, to the country. Azerbaijan expects the same approach from Turkey. On September 22, Turkish citizens Ufuk Uras, Ali Bayramoglu, Said Cekinoglu and Erol Katircioglu illegally visited Azerbaijans Nagorno-Karabakh region, occupied by the Armenian armed forces. Earlier, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that the illegal visit of Turkish citizens to the occupied Azerbaijani territories did not reflect Ankaras official policy. Grave Crimes Investigation Department of the Azerbaijani Prosecutor General's Office filed a criminal case under the Criminal Codes Article 318.2 (illegally crossing Azerbaijans state borders). All four individuals are accused under the abovementioned article. A measure of restraint in the form of arrest was chosen against them. They were declared internationally wanted. An appeal was sent to the Turkish law enforcement to detain the four individuals. 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, Oct. 17 By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend: Structural changes carried out in Azerbaijans Cabinet of Ministers are an important step aimed at improving effectiveness of management, the countrys MP Aydin Huseynov told Trend Oct. 17. He said that the Cabinet of Ministers is the supreme executive body, and the reforms carried out in this executive body will increase effectiveness and efficiency of the work of the structure. This, in turn, will have a positive impact on the management, he noted. The MP added that in general, over the past years, reforms that serve to increase effectiveness and efficiency of management in a number of spheres have been implemented under the leadership of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The MP noted that the structural reforms implemented in accordance with new conditions and challenges serve to improve the management system and form an operational management mechanism. Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on Aug. 23 approving the structure of Office of the Cabinet of Ministers. The decree sets a limit on the number of employees of the Cabinet of Ministers Office (excluding the Department for Affairs) at 200 established posts. The limit on the number of employees of the Department for Affairs of the Cabinet of Ministers Office is to be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. If necessary, Azerbaijans Cabinet of Ministers can create sectors in the departments that make up the structure of its Office (or departments and sectors in the Department for Affairs). Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed an order to amend the Decree on the Establishment of Azercosmos OJSC, dated May 3, 2010. According to the amendments, the words subordinated to the Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the first part of the decree are replaced with the words of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Moreover, the words as well as coordination of work carried out within international space projects and participation in them, cooperation with relevant international organizations and space agencies of foreign states in using outer space for peaceful purposes are added after the word implementation. Thus, Azercosmos OJSC has been removed from subordination of Azerbaijans Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies. Details added (first version posted on 16:21) Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received credentials of newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Greece Nikolaos Kanellos Oct. 17. The ambassador reviewed a guard of honor. Kanellos presented his credentials to President Aliyev. President Aliyev then spoke with the ambassador. They exchanged views on various aspects of Greece-Azerbaijan relations. They also discussed the energy cooperation and the ways of increasing trade between the two countries. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Gulgiz Muradova - Trend: Polish President Andrzej Duda may pay an official visit to Azerbaijan next year, said Polish Foreign Minister Witold Waszczykowski. Waszczykowski, talking to Trend ahead of his Baku visit, said that few agreements are under consideration now. We plan to prepare it for signing during the possible official visit of President Andrzej Duda to Azerbaijan next year, the FM said. The minister stressed that in Baku the sides will discuss future endeavours in bilateral relations, as well as Azerbaijan relations with the EU and cooperation in the framework of Eastern Partnership. My visit is taking place shortly before the approaching Eastern Partnership Summit in Brussels , which is an extra important factor for our political talks, the minister said. The Eastern Partnership (EaP) is a joint initiative involving the EU, its member states and 6 eastern European partners: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. The 5th Eastern Partnership summit will take place in Brussels on 24 November. Heads of state or government from the EU member states and the six Eastern partner countries will look forward to future cooperation. Rector of Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) Elmar Gasimov met with undergraduates who became BHOS students in 2017 and were awarded with Presidential scholarship for excellent results achieved at the entrance exams. Speaking at the meeting, he said, I am very proud that the number of Presidential scholars at BHOS has doubled in comparison with previous years. This year, the Higher School once again became a record-holder for the number of students admitted to national higher educational institutions in 1st group of specialities and awarded with the Presidential scholarship. Out of 25 Presidential scholars in this group of specialities, 24 students selected BHOS. Seven students of them including three girls and four boys earned 700 points at the entrance exams. Most of the Presidential Scholars chose to study Process Automation Engineering. Process automation engineering is one of the most prestigious professions today and this speciality holds records for its popularity in the country. Rector Elmar Gasimov highly praised the decision of the Presidential scholars to study at the Higher School. In his words, this choice is a large investment in their future success in professional development and career. The Rector once again congratulated the undergraduates and wished them to achieve excellent results in their studies. At the end of the meeting, a commemorative photo was taken. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Anvar Mammadov Trend: Establishment of the Tobacco Producers and Exporters Association in Azerbaijan is a good step to bring together all tobacco producers, as well as exporters, and connect them, Rufat Guliyev, doctor of economics, professor, told Trend. This step will make it possible to use common experience and share technologies, he noted.For the past 15 years, new varieties of tobacco were used for its production. He added that creation and further development of the association will provide great support in the search for new markets. Tobacco is a very specific commodity, and in the context of the increasingly widespread fight against smoking in Europe, it has become nearly impossible to plant tobacco, Guliyev said. In addition, subsidizing of tobacco growing has nearly stopped. In this regard, I believe that the association will allow producers to solve their problems in a more organized and coordinated way. Guliyev noted that bringing Azerbaijani tobacco to international standards and search for sales markets should be the primary goals of the association. Currently, the sale of tobacco as a raw material faces great problems, since there is very high competition due to the fact that almost half of the territories of Africa and South America is covered by tobacco plantations, said Guliyev. Tobacco Producers and Exporters Association was created in Azerbaijan in early October. Telman Hasratov was elected chairman of the board of the association. By PTI: Mumbai, Oct 17 (PTI) Over one lakh employees of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) have gone on an indefinite strike demanding a hike in salary, causing hardships to thousands of long-distance passengers planning to travel to their hometowns for Diwali. To overcome the disruption caused by the strike, which started from midnight yesterday, the transport department of the Maharashtra government has issued a notification to allow private vehicles, including school buses, to ferry passengers. advertisement The state-run corporation termed the strike, which has hit the Diwali travel of thousands of passengers, as "illegal". "Our 1.02 lakh staffers have stopped plying ST buses from midnight yesterday demanding implementation of the 7th Pay Commission and an interim hike of 25 per cent till the pay panels recommendations are implemented. "The government agreed to give only a part of interim hike which is not acceptable to us," Sandeep Shinde, president of the Maharashtra ST Workers Union, told PTI today. "If our demands are met, we are ready to end our strike right now," Shinde said. Shinde said, on behalf of the union, he apologises for inconvenience caused to passengers. "We have been rendering our services to them (passengers) since long, but this time we need their support for our survival," Shinde added. He said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Transport Minister Diwakar Raote have taken some steps to resolve the issue, but "we want a final solution this time". "Due to the strike by State Transport staffers, official permission has been granted for all types of (private) buses (like school and company vehicles) to ferry passengers from ST depots," Parveen Gedam, Transport Commission of Maharashtra, told PTI. A senior official of the MSRTC said the strike is "illegal" and the transport agencys administration has appealed to the union members to come back to work. "Different courts have clarified that such strikes are not within law as transport is an essential service. We, therefore, appeal to the staffers to resume work." MSRTC officials said Fadnavis and Raote have taken the issue seriously and ordered setting up of a committee to look into it. More than 65 lakh passengers travel by ST buses across the state everyday. The MSRTC runs 18,000 buses, some of which go to far-flung areas not connected by rail network. The transport undertaking incurs a loss of Rs 450 crore per year. PTI APM RSY JMF --- ENDS --- Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Azad Hasanli Trend: PASHA Holding plans to reorganize the activities of its investment company PASHA Capital, Jalal Gasimov, first deputy CEO of PASHA Holding, told the conference titled Capital Markets of Azerbaijan. Opportunities and Prospects in Baku. He noted that the holding has recently adopted a 10-year development strategy, where PASHA Capital plays a big role. We plan to reorganize PASHA Capitals activities and strengthen its presence in the market, Gasimov added. PASHA Capital LLC has been operating in Azerbaijan since 2012. Headline changed, details added (first version posted at 12:15) Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Azad Hasanli Trend: Azerbaijan Banks Association (ABA) positively assesses the consolidation in the countrys banking sector, ABA head Zakir Nuriyev told reporters in Baku. Such discussions have always been held in the banking sector, but they have intensified lately, he said, adding that ABA supports such negotiations. Nuriyev noted the necessity to encourage such negotiations so that they are held at a more rapid pace. This is a normal international practice. The world's big banks are in constant consolidation talks. Recently, we have also witnessed the merger of two Azerbaijani banks AtaBank and Caspian Development Bank, he said. However, despite certain negotiations, there are currently no concrete decisions regarding consolidation among Azerbaijani banks, according to Nuriyev. We do not want banks to close because of lack of capital in the country. We want them to continue their activities, therefore, support the merger of banks, the ABA head added. Thirty-one banks operate in Azerbaijan. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Anvar Mammadov Trend: Four national stands of foreign countries will be presented at WorldBuild Baku 2017, the 23rd Azerbaijan International Construction Exhibition, said Edward Stroon, executive director at ITE Group plc. This year, the national stands of Germany, Iran, the UAE and, for the first time, Poland will be presented at the exhibition, he told a press conference in Baku. In total, participation of 310 companies from 28 countries is expected at the exhibition, according to him. One third of the participants will be Azerbaijani companies. Besides, I am pleased to note that a third of companies will participate in the exhibition for the first time, Stroon said. The largest construction exhibition in the Caspian region WorldBuild Baku 2017 will kick off in Baku Oct. 18. Aquatherm Baku 2017 and Securika CIPS 2017 exhibitions will also be held in Baku in the upcoming week. Aquatherm Baku 2017 will gather 66 companies from 13 countries, including Azerbaijan, Iran, Kuwait, Turkey, France and others. Meanwhile, Azerbaijani, Kazakh, Russian and other companies are expected to participate in Securika CIPS 2017. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Azad Hasanli Trend: Azerbaijan has a great potential to develop securities market, Jalal Gasimov, first deputy chairman of board at PASHA Holding, said. Gasimov made the remarks addressing the conference titled Capital Markets of Azerbaijan: Opportunities and Prospects in Baku Oct. 17. He stressed that banks, population and corporate clients can benefit from the development of the securities market. Today banks draw funds mainly through deposits, he said. But debt securities are more long-term and cheaper resources, and banks could draw cheaper funds via their placement. As for corporate clients, Gasimov added that investments in securities can help them reduce their dependence on banks. Investments in securities can also help companies place their short-term liquidity, he said. For individuals, investing in securities is an opportunity to get a higher return. Gasimov said that preservation of macroeconomic stability, diversification of the real economy, institutional strengthening of investors, and weakening of requirements to companies in terms of their capitalization must be the main conditions for development of the securities market. Details added (first version posted at 13:21) Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Anvar Mammadov Trend: Four national stands of foreign countries will be presented at WorldBuild Baku 2017, the 23rd Azerbaijan International Construction Exhibition, said Edward Stroon, executive director at ITE Group plc. This year, the national stands of Germany, Iran, the UAE and, for the first time, Poland will be presented at the exhibition, he told a press conference in Baku. In total, participation of 310 companies from 28 countries is expected at the exhibition, according to him. One third of the participants will be Azerbaijani companies. Besides, I am pleased to note that a third of companies will participate in the exhibition for the first time, Stroon said. The largest construction exhibition in the Caspian region WorldBuild Baku 2017 will kick off in Baku Oct. 18. Aquatherm Baku 2017 and Securika CIPS 2017 exhibitions will also be held in Baku in the upcoming week. Aquatherm Baku 2017 will gather 66 companies from 13 countries, including Azerbaijan, Iran, Kuwait, Turkey, France and others. Meanwhile, Azerbaijani, Kazakh, Russian and other companies are expected to participate in Securika CIPS 2017. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Rufiz Hafizoglu Trend: Qatar intends to make additional investments in the Turkish economy, Qatars media reported Oct. 17. Qatar plans to additionally invest $19 billion in various sectors of the Turkish economy in 2018. In particular, Qatars Hassad Food company expressed its intention to invest $650 million in the Turkish agriculture, including the livestock sector. At present, Hassad Food company is negotiating with the Turkish Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock. To date, the total amount of Qatar's investments in the Turkish economy is $18 billion. Meanwhile, 121 Qatars companies with a total capital of 5 billion Turkish lira have been operating in Turkey in January-August 2017. At present, Qatar ranks 19th among the countries that have made direct investments in Turkey. The trade turnover between the two countries amounted to $634 million in January-August 2017. According to the Turkish Central Bank, foreign investments in the Turkish economy increased by 50.1 percent in January-June 2017 and amounted to $4.108 billion compared to the same period of 2016. During the reporting period, Qatar's direct investments in Turkey amounted to $541 million. Around 68 percent of direct foreign investments in the Turkish economy accounts for the European countries. Spain ranks first among European countries that have made direct investments in the Turkish economy. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Azad Hasanli Trend: Turkic-speaking countries should create a single platform for mutual investments in the financial markets, head of Azerbaijani investment company InvestAZ, Elshan Guliyev, believes. Of course, this is a complex process. The implementation of such an initiative takes a long time but, for example, in Europe, similar conditions already exist, he told a conference titled Capital Markets of Azerbaijan. Opportunities and Prospects in Baku on Oct. 17. Guliyev noted that Azerbaijan and Turkey are now implementing a similar project. Recently, the national depositories of Azerbaijan and Turkey signed a memorandum of understanding that provides for the Turkish investors enter Azerbaijans capital markets, he said. Guliyev added that in general, market participants expect significant development of the Azerbaijani economy. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: This year the annual SIBOS conference organized by the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) is being held October 16-19 in Toronto, Canada. Representatives of major banks, financial institutions as well as financial sector equipment and software manufacturers and suppliers are attending this conference. Here they have an opportunity to discuss issues important for the sector, development of trends, future prospects for cooperation as well as share experiences. The representatives of the International Bank of Azerbaijan (IBA), one of the leading banks in the region, are also attending this event. During this event IBA delegates are meeting with the foreign relationship banks to share the results of the successfully completed debt restructuring process, outline future strategy prospects and discuss opportunities for mutually-beneficiary co-operation. SIBOS conference has traditionally been held since 1978. Bringing together thousands of professionals from different countries, SIBOS is one of the most important events of the global banking and finance sector. Information on products and services provided by the International Bank of Azerbaijan can be obtained from 36 branches and 40 sub-branches, www.ibar.az website, 937 Call Center as well as from the official Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/azerbaycanbeynelxalqbanki/ of the bank. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: Interview with Azerbaijans Economy Minister Shahin Mustafayev on the Azerbaijani-Russian relations, the 25th anniversary of which is celebrated this year. Q: How would you briefly describe the current state of relations between Azerbaijan and Russia? A: First of all, I would like to note that the Azerbaijani-Russian relations, the 25th anniversary of which we celebrate this year, are steadily developing and today, thanks to the efforts and political will of our heads of state, they have risen to the level of strategic partnership. At all meetings held as part of official visits, various events, they constantly emphasize the need to expand cooperation. It is gratifying to note that at present, multifaceted cooperation is successfully developing between our countries, This cooperation covers such spheres as trade, investment, industry, fuel and energy, agriculture, transport and transit transportations, tourism, humanitarian spheres, etc. Q: Traditionally, agricultural products have been the main item of export from Azerbaijan to Russia. What measures are being taken at the interstate level to increase export in this direction? A: I should note that the need to expand trade in agricultural products, as well as to increase the supply of vegetables from Azerbaijan to Russia, was repeatedly pointed out at the meetings of our presidents. In pursuance of these agreements, back in 2014, a working group on cooperation in agriculture and on the issues of supplying agricultural products was established under the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Russia. The co-chairs of the working group from the Azerbaijani side are the deputy minister of economy, and from the Russian side - the deputy minister of agriculture. Issues of creating more favorable conditions to increase the supply volume of fruit and vegetable products to the Russian market, accelerating electronic exchange of phytosanitary and veterinary certificates issued in both countries, as well as other issues are regularly discussed at the meetings of the working group. In addition, representatives of the relevant ministries of Russia repeatedly visited our country in order to get acquainted with the activity of our companies. It should be noted that they also visited Green Tech LLC (Azersun Holding LLC), which is one of the biggest producers of vegetables, including tomatoes, and highly appreciated the work done. On September 25, 2014, during the visit of Mayor of Moscow Sergey Sobyanin to Azerbaijan, the issues of export of agricultural products from Azerbaijan to Russia were widely discussed. As a result of the discussions, 48 memorandums of mutual understanding on the export of agricultural products and processed products were signed among 16 Azerbaijani companies and 3 big trade networks and logistics centers of the Russian Federation. At present, the work is carried out to implement memorandums. We regularly inform producers and farmers about the additional opportunities that are being created to enter the Russian market. We apply various incentive mechanisms to increase production and export products. Q: The statements have been recently made at various levels in Russia that the export of tomatoes from Azerbaijan to Russia is being increased due to the re-export of tomatoes from Turkey. How can you comment on this? A: As a result of the abovementioned measures and taking into account the increased demand, tomato production only in enclosed grounds increased by 1.6 times in 2014-2016. In January-June 2017, 261,700 tons of tomatoes were produced in enclosed grounds. In total, 502,700 tons of tomatoes were produced in 2016. As for the statements about illegal export of Turkish tomatoes to Russia, I would like to note that, firstly, in accordance with the "Rules for Determining the Country of Origin of Goods in the CIS" dated November 20, 2009, joined by Azerbaijan as well, ST-1 certificates of origin are issued. The certificates are issued on the basis of examination carried out by the authorized body on the territory of the producer to reveal the availability of lands, greenhouses or leased areas for carrying out this agricultural work. The batches of goods, as well as packaging and labeling, are checked on the basis of the submitted documents. Secondly, taking into account the increased production volumes, a specific duty has been imposed for the import of tomatoes in the volume of $0.4 per kilogram upon the decree of the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers dated September 23, 2016. As a result, imports of tomatoes from Turkey decreased in quantitative terms by 81 percent, while in value terms by 76 percent in January-September 2017 compared to the same period of 2016. Tomatoes have not been imported from Turkey at all since May 2017. After the imposition of the duty, the average import price for each kilogram of tomatoes was $ 1.15, while the average price for export of tomatoes to Russia was $0.97, which testifies the inefficiency of re-export of Turkish tomatoes to Russia. Thirdly, with the exception of Azerbaijans Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Azerbaijan does not have a common border with Turkey. Taking into account the fact that as a result of the occupation policy of Armenia, Nakhchivan has been blocked, it is practically impossible to transport any cargo. Thus, those statements are false. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct.10 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: The fulfillment plan for the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) is under final alignment, Teodora Georgieva, executive officer at ICGB AD joint venture company, the projects operator, told Trend. She noted that the Project Fulfillment Plan includes upcoming major steps for ensuring the start of the pipelines construction, amendment of the Innovations and Competitiveness (OPIC) program by including ICGB as a beneficiary of grant from Greece, exemption, tender launching procedures, etc. "The construction of IGB is planned to start in 2018. After adoption of the decision for exemption, which is expected for next year, we will be able to submit for a building permit in Greece," added Georgieva. On September 12, Bulgarias Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works issued a permit for construction of IGB on Bulgarias territory. The permit was issued for construction on the territory of Stara Zagora, Haskovo and Kardzhali districts. IGB is a gas pipeline, which will allow Bulgaria to receive Azerbaijani gas, in particular, the gas produced from Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz 2 gas and condensate field. IGB is expected to be connected to the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) via which gas from the Shah Deniz field will be delivered to the European markets. The initial capacity of IGB will be 3 billion cubic meters of gas. The projects cost is estimated at around 240 million euros. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Invoking tall leaders from the poll-bound state like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Morarji Desai, the prime minister accused the "Congress and the family" of slighting them. By Press Trust of India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today excoriated the Congress and the Nehru-Gandhi family, accusing them of disliking Gujarat and Gujaratis who they considered an "eyesore". Invoking tall leaders from the poll-bound state like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Morarji Desai, the prime minister accused the "Congress and the family" of slighting them. He also alleged a "conspiracy" was hatched by the Congress to put him in jail , in an apparent reference to accusations of his complicity in the 2002 post-Godhra riots . advertisement GUJARAT POLLS Accusing the main opposition party of pursuing "negative politics", Modi dared the Congress to fight the upcoming Gujarat Assembly polls on the development plank. "Gujarat polls are round the corner and the Congress has developed fever once again. Gujarat has been an eyesore for the party and the family. I wont repeat what they did to Sardar Patel, his daughter Maniben, and Morarji Desai. "They did not speak about the work of Morarji Desai or his dedication and commitment to Mahatma Gandhis ideals. They instead chose to talk about what he ate and drank," Modi told a massive BJP rally at Bhat village near Gandhinagar, referring to the former prime ministers fondness of urine therapy. He also targeted the Congress over the resignation of party leader Madhavsinha Solanki, who as the foreign minister was alleged to have sent a letter to his then Swiss counterpart to scuttle the Bofors scandal probe. "They forced Solanki to resign. the party can go to any extent to save the family," he said. The rally was held to mark the conclusion of the saffron partys Gujarat Gaurav Yatra (march for Gujarats honour) ahead of the high-octane electoral battle for the state where the BJP holds sway. "You did not waste any opportunity to strike. When I was the chief minister and you were in power at the Centre, you hatched a conspiracy to put me in jail. You knew that it was not possible until Amit Shah (BJP chief) was put behind bars, you did that. "This is the poison, the malice you harbour. Since Patel conceived the Narmada project, it was not allowed to be completed for 40-50 years," Modi said as he repeatedly attacked the Nehru-Gandhi family in his speech. Referring to Congress leaders, including party president Sonia Gandhi and her deputy Rahul Gandhi being on bail in the National Herald case, Modi said,"The whole party is on bail". He also dared the Congress to contest the polls on the development plank. "I had expected them to fight this election on the issue of development, but they are not doing that. Now they have decided to belittle Gujarat's development," he said referring to the Congress online campaign Vikas (development) has gone crazy, which targets the Gujarat model of development. advertisement DEVELOPMENT POLITICS VS FAMILY RULE Rahul Gandhi has, during his frequent trips to the state, criticised the Gujarat model of development. "This election is a fight between vikasvaad and "vanshvaad"; development politics will triumph over family rule. " Congress, he alleged, always avoided contesting elections with focus on development. "Every time there is an election, it would raise the issue of communalism, spread the poison of casteism. They never have the courage to contest a poll on the concrete issue of development," he said. The prime ministers remark came against the backdrop of the agitation by the influential Patel community for reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. Hardik Patel, the quota stir spearhead, had welcomed Rahul Gandhi on a recent visit to Gujarat. "They called us anti-Dalit, anti-Adivasi, an urban party. The people gave them an apt reply. None of the charges stuck. Today, we have the highest number of Dalit and Adivasi MPs. The highest number of MPs from rural areas are of the BJP," he said. advertisement Speaking in both Hindi and Gujarati, the prime minister said his government had taken forward 90 water projects worth Rs 50,000 crore that were pending since the time the Congress was in power. Rs 12 lakh crore worth of development projects that were pending are being executed, he said. The prime minister alleged that when he launched the Sujalam Sufalam project, which would reach water that was going waste by draining into the sea, to parched areas, the the Congress government in neighbouring Rajasthan objected to it. "Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot wrote to us that you cannot use the water without our permission," he said. Modi said "negative" politics was responsible for the current condition of the Congress, which once ruled all over the country and gave so many prime ministers from one family. "The Congress' only agenda is to save one family," he said. --- ENDS --- Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct.17 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: Italys Edison and Gas Natural Fenosa have signed a binding agreement for the acquisition by Edison of Gas Natural Vendita Italia and of Azerbaijans Shah Deniz II gas contract, said the message posted on Edisons website. As part of the agreement and subject to the closing of Gas Natural Vendita Italias acquisition, Edison will also acquire a 11 TWh long term gas supply contract from the Shah Deniz II field. In particular, the total consideration payable is 30 Million Euros for the gas supply contract, of which a down payment of 10 Million Euros and an earn-out of 20 Million Euros, payable starting from 2021 subject to the first delivery of gas to Italy through the TAP pipeline. This transaction is a breakthrough opportunity for our company: on the one hand, we grow our role in the Italian retail market, which is one of the pillars of our development plan. On the other hand, through the acquisition of Shah Deniz II contract, we enlarge our gas supply portfolio guaranteeing gas at a competitive price to all our customers and the security of the Italian energy system in the long term, said Marc Benayoun, Chief Executive Officer of Edison. Edison will acquire 100 percent of Gas Natural Vendita Italia (GNVI), the company owned by Gas Natural Fenosa, that commercializes natural gas and electricity across Italy. The purchase price is 192.8 million euros corresponding to an enterprise value of 263 million euros after debt repayment and provision. The acquisition of Gas Natural Vendita Italia is subject to the European Competition clearance. Edison will fully control and consolidate Gas Natural Vendita Italia as from the closing date, which is expected to occur between December 2017 and March 2018. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct.17 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: The ongoing tension between the US and Iran over the nuclear deal will affect the decision-making process of various European and other international companies, Francis Perrin, Senior Research Fellow at the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs, told Trend. The refusal of the US President Donald Trump to certify that the suspension of sanctions under the July 2015 agreement is appropriate and proportionate to measures taken by Iran to terminate its nuclear program is an important factor of uncertainty which will weigh on the decision-making process of various European and other international companies, he said. Moreover, President Trump indicated that the US would impose additional sanctions on Iran and he called for the US Congress and its allies to work with his administration in order to improve the agreement on Iran's nuclear program, added Perrin. Of course, as often, President Trump overplays his hand. US allies are not at all ready to change the JCPOA as the strong joint reaction from Germany, France and the United Kingdom shows. The European Union, Russia and China also support the JCPOA. The Trump Administration is thus very isolated but the US is a superpower with a long arm. For several companies President Trump's decision will have a negative impact on their investment plans and projects in Iran as the level of political risk linked to this country will be higher, he noted. Perrin pointed out that there will be a need to study carefully the content of future US sanctions and of the decisions that will be taken by Congress. The two key issues are: will these sanctions impact directly and indirectly the oil and gas sector? And will the US reintroduce extraterritorial sanctions against non-US companies buying hydrocarbons produced in Iran and/or investing in the oil and gas sector in Iran? Pending these future decisions companies will remain cautious. This situation will very probably delay the negotiation process between Iran and international oil companies, said the expert. As for the current situation on the oil market, he said that the worsening of tensions between the US and Iran has an upward impact on oil prices. It seems that traders are rediscovering the importance of geopolitics after a period characterized by an oil glut on the world oil market. OPEC and non-OPEC production reductions and the ongoing negotiations between exporting countries with a view to extend the validity of these reductions beyond end-March 2018 as well as the increase of world oil demand are other important factors which must be taken into account to explain the rise in oil prices, said Perrin. He believes that US-Iran tensions could have a medium-term impact on prices. It is very unlikely that their relationship will improve before the end of 2020, which is the normal end of President Trump's term. It is in fact very likely that a further deterioration will be registered, added the expert. Iran is a country which has a great potential to increase its oil production and exports, he said, adding that if these tensions with the US, the threat of new US sanctions and higher regional instability deter several international oil companies from investing in Iran the rise in its production and export capacities will be slower than forecast. Such a trend could imply higher oil prices as world oil demand will go on increasing during the coming years, he concluded. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Ali Mustafayev Trend: Energy Minister of Kazakhstan Kanat Bozumbayev gave a forecast for the cost of gasoline AI-92 in Kazakhstan, at the meeting of the countrys government. "We believe that the average price in late October-early November should be 160-161 tenge per liter and lower, he said, Kazakh media outlets reported. Currently Kazakhstan is experiencing certain problems with fuel, since three of the country's refineries are being modernized. To compensate for lack of fuel for domestic consumption, Kazakhstan is currently importing fuel from Russia, which is more expensive, compared to the local one. Russian gasoline is more expensive and its price in Kazakhstan may reach 171 tenge," the minister added. The minister stressed that the problem of the gasoline shortage in local market will be solved in the near future and there will be no more limits for refueling for all the major networks. Yes, the price is high, but in other case we wont be able to import gasoline from Russia. In October, the share of Russian gasoline in Kazakh market should be about 40 percent, in November we assume its decline to 30 percent, in December - below 20 percent, he forecasted. He added that Kazakhstan expects production of 170,000 tons of AI-92 gasoline at two large refineries - Atyrausky and Shymkent. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Oct. 17 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: Turkmenistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a meeting with the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel Moshe Kamhi, said the Turkmen Foreign Ministry. The diplomat presented copies of his credentials. The Turkmen side expressed readiness to render assistance and support the activities in the strengthening of bilateral cooperation, the Foreign Ministry said. During the meeting, the sides mulled strengthening of cooperation in politics, economy and culture. It was earlier reported that Israel, which has vast experience in agriculture and irrigation, is ready to provide Turkmenistan with experience in purification, desalination and rational use of water resources. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Oct. 17 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: Turkmenistan has been admitted to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the Turkmen Foreign Ministry said in a message Oct. 17. The decision was made at a session of the IPU Governing Council in St. Petersburg, Russia. The accession of Turkmenistan to the IPU is another evidence of the international recognition of the successful work done in the country to strengthen civil institutions and democratic values, said the message. The IPU, headquartered in Geneva, is one of the oldest international organizations and one of the most representative international structures for interparliamentary diplomacy. Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Oct. 17 By Diana Aliyeva Trend: Uzbekistans President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has congratulated president-elect of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbay Jeenbekov, the Uzbek presidents press service reported. Uzbekistan pays great attention to building mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation with Kyrgyzstan and is ready to strengthen the comprehensive partnership for the benefit of peoples of the two countries, said Mirziyoyev in his letter. The Uzbek president expressed confidence that the high level of constructive political dialogue achieved over the past year and the commitment of the parties to resolve the existing issues on the basis of principles of mutual respect and consideration of common interests will be further developed. President Mirziyoyev wished Sooronbay Jeenbekov robust health and success in his new state position, and the people of Kyrgyzstan peace and prosperity. Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Oct. 17 By Diana Aliyeva Trend: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received head of Russia's Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov, who is in Uzbekistan with a working visit, according to the presidential press service. Welcoming the guest, Mirziyoyev said that regular high-level meetings contribute to strengthening of Uzbek-Russian relations of strategic partnership. It was noted that the intergovernmental cooperation agreement between the two countries, signed in April 2017, has opened up new opportunities for closer interaction and cooperation in various fields. It is pointed out that during the Uzbek presidents recent meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Sochi, the sides expressed satisfaction with bilateral cooperation and supported the intensification of contacts at the regional level. During the meeting, Mirziyoyev and Kadyrov discussed prospects of further development of cooperation. Special attention was paid to the issues of increasing the volume and expanding the range of mutual trade, as well as implementation of joint programs and projects in economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Kadyrov, for his part, commended the policy and international initiatives of the Uzbek president in strengthening of interethnic accord and religious tolerance. Kadyrov further pointed out his readiness to actively participate in the development and strengthening of mutually beneficial and multifaceted relations between the two countries. Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Oct. 17 By Diana Aliyeva Trend: Forty-one previously privatized and currently inactive facilities have been identified during the inventory in the Chinaz district of the Tashkent region, the State Committee of Uzbekistan for Assistance to Privatized Enterprises and Development of Competition reported. The total area of the facilities is 52,300 square meters, and the total are of land is more than 48.2 hectares. The list of the facilities includes many big production complexes, such as former expanded clay plant, furniture factory, etc. To date, investment projects to restore the activity of 30 inactive objects in Chinaz district have been developed. Tehran, Iran, Oct. 16 By Mehdi Sepahvand Trend: Following Trumps speech where he announced his new Iran strategy, any new sanctions will very probably come as a challenge to Irans energy sector, Omid Shokri Kalehsar, an energy analyst based in Washington DC, has told Trend. "Iran holds the worlds fourth-largest proven oil reserves and the worlds second-largest natural gas reserves. Lifting sanctions in the wake of implementation of the Iran nuclear deal in fact opened large opportunities for the resource-rich country to push forward its long-stagnated industry. Intensified visits by international companies to Tehran to find a deserved place in the perspective Iranian market have been a reality of the past few months. To improve conditions for its oil and gas sectors, Iran needs capital and technology that can be provided by international companies," Dr. Shokri said. "According to Iranian officials, Iran needs about $100 billion foreign investment in the oil, gas and petrochemical sectors," he noted, adding in the oil sector, most of Iran's oil fields are in its second half of life, with 8 percent of oil production annually dropping automatically, and Iran needs technology and capital from foreign countries to increase its oil efficiency. "The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is not a bilateral accord signed between Iran and the United States, but closed among six countries. Foreign companies willing to invest in Iran may be subject to unilateral banking sanctions pushed by the US government. If new sanctions are imposed by the US government against countries which are interested in investing in Iran, especially in energy sector, it may exacerbate the uncertainty of investors, leading to Iran losing investment opportunities and hampering the countrys plans to achieve its goals of luring foreign investments," Shokri said. "The ban on dollar deals with Iran, the concern of big banks to experience the heavy fines imposed on them by the Treasury Department, the obvious opposition of significant portions of the US Senate and Congress to the nuclear deal, all play into more and more restrictions on Iran." Shokri stated that one should wait to see what kind of sanctions US Congress will pass after Donald Trumps decertification of the JCPOA. In his recent speech on Iran, the US president said, "The Iranian regime has committed multiple violations of the agreement." "Trumps recent remarks about JCPOA are expected to affect directly and indirectly foreign investment in Irans energy sector. If Congress imposes new sanctions on Irans energy sector, Iran may face problems in marketing of its oil and other energy products. In any case, regional markets such as Pakistan and Turkey will be the best option for Iran to export oil and gas. Turkey is already a customer of Iranian natural gas and needs more of it. Iran also has to sooner operationalize IP project with Pakistan," the energy analyst noted. "Given the current situation and the level of domestic consumption as well as the high energy intensity, Iran needs foreign investment, and without foreign investment it is likely that Iran, as an OPEC member facing huge investment rivals such as Iraq and Saudi Arabia, will fall behind in oil production. In OPEC a country with a low oil output will lose influence. Therefore, to preserve its place in OPEC, Iran needs to increase its oil production. After sanctions were lifted, Total and NIOC signed a contract for the development of Phase 11 of the giant South Pars gas field. If the EU stays willing to invest in Irans energy sector, Iran can see brighter days." Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 16 By Fatih Karimov Trend: Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) plans to renovate its fleet within five years, Amirsaman Torabizadeh, Technical & Commercial Director of IRISL, said. The sate-run company plans to replace 49 ships with new ones according to a 5-year development plan, Torabizadeh said, the IRISL said in a message Oct. 16. He further said that besides domestic capacities, IRISL will cooperate with foreign ship-building companies to materialize the plan. Torabizadeh added that Chinese and South Korean LCs will be used in this regard. In December, 2016 South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries Co Ltd received a $650-million order to build 10 ships for IRISL. Under the deal, the Korean company will build container ships and tankers for Irans state-owned shipping company. The deal was the first shipbuilding order by the Iranian firm since the lifting of international sanctions off Iran. IRISL also has signed a deal with another South Korean shipbuilder, Daewoo to establish a shipbuilding company in a joint venture with the Industrial Development and Renovation Organization of Iran (IDRO) and National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC). Since 1983, Daewoo has delivered 38 ships, worth $1.65 billion to Iranian companies. IRISL operates about 115 ocean-going vessels, but many of the ships are aged and cannot be insured. During the sanctions, over 85 percent of Iranian cargos were transported by IRISL, Torabizadeh said. He added that the first new vessels will be imported during the first three months of 2018, expressing hope that the new ships will help the company to reclaim its share in international logistics market. The company has established new shipping lines and is restoring its pre-sanction position, Torabizadeh added. He also announced that IRISL will launch a container shipping line from Asia to Europe and vice versa. UNHRC, Geneva-based highest intergovernmental body will look into the matters relating to protection and promotion of human rights globally. By Geeta Mohan: The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) today elected 15 States to serve on the Human Rights Council (UNHRC) of which Nepal topped the countries representing the Asian Group in the 47-member council. UNHRC, Geneva-based highest intergovernmental body looking into matters relating to protection and promotion of human rights globally, elects its members through a secret ballot. The 15 new members were elected according to set groupings from which States are chosen. The pattern is as follows: four seats for African States; four seats for Asia-Pacific States; three seats for Latin American and Caribbean States; two seats for Eastern European States; and two seats for Western European and other States. advertisement Nepal topped the Asia-Pacific group with 165 votes followed by Qatar with 155 Pakistan with 151 and Afghanistan by 130. All got elected. Malaysia lost with 129. The newly elected countries are Afghanistan, Angola, Australia, Chile, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mexico, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Qatar, Senegal, Slovakia, Spain and Ukraine. All would serve three-year terms beginning on 1 January 2018. Pakistan in a statement today welcomed the decision saying, "Pakistan was elected today to the Human Rights Council (HRC) for the term 2018-20. Pakistan secured more than two third majority votes. There were five candidates from the Asia Pacific region against four seats." Adding that Pakistan was committed to "uphold", "promote" and "safeguard" universal human rights by building on efforts towards ensuring that the "Council's work is guided by the principles of universality, impartiality, dialogue and cooperation." "Pakistan's membership to this Council demonstrates a strong vote of confidence of the international community in our role and contribution to the national and global human rights agenda", the statement read. While Pakistan has been trying to claim victory despite recorded violations within its country, an official told India Today that "all four States from the grouping got the same two-thirds majority and two States much smaller than them secured first and second position." In a rare event in 2015, Pakistan failed to win a re-election to the top UNHRC, garnering just 105 votes in the 193-member General Assembly due to widespread criticism of its egregious human rights violations. This year while it has found entry, India will be looking at other important Asian partners like Afghanistan and Nepal to ensure Pakistan's moves against India at the world body are curtailed. Also Watch : Many Rohingyas have links with terror groups, Pakistan's ISI, Govt tells Supreme Court --- ENDS --- Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Azer Ahmadbayli Trend: Why US President Donald Trump has taken the decertify decision of Irans technical compliance with the nuclear deal just now?. Not 3 months ago, not 3 months later. Something has changed or is about to be changed in several days or weeks in the region. Possible answers - the end of ISIS, end of war in Syria, and thus time is coming to figure out who will rule over Syria, what the post-war political landscape will be, and so on. One of Washington's principal aims regarding Syria is to make Irans official advisers and unofficial proxies get away, to completely disable Tehran from participating in the post-war decision taking and accordingly to tear off Syria from Irans influence. Defense Minister of Israel Avigdor Liberman said yesterday that Israel will take military action against Iran and its proxies if they attempt to entrench themselves along the Syrian border with Israel. We will not allow Iran and Hezbollah to turn Syrian territory into a forward operating base against Israel. We also will not allow the transfer of advanced weaponry by Iran, through Syria to Lebanon, Liberman said. His words, for the most part, explain the US-Iran approach over Syria. President Trump handed in the issue to the US Congress, giving Iran time to break off any political and military support to the Syrian regime; otherwise sanctions suspended by the deal, will most likely be applied again. Another question is begging to be asked: should Europe support sanctions if they are to be re-imposed? The answer is no. Europe will be made to do it. I urge our allies to join us in taking strong actions to curb Iran's continued dangerous and destabilizing behavior, Trump said. However, in the event we are not able to reach a solution working with Congress and our allies, then the agreement will be terminated, he said. So far, most of the leading European banks still remain reluctant to establish ties with Iranian counterparts due to concerns over the US sanctions. There are many memorandums of understanding signed between a great number of European companies and Tehran in different fields, but most of them still remain on paper. Many Iranians say they dont feel any change for the better in the post-sanctions time. International money transfer for common Iranians and money transactions for Iranian businessmen are still quite complicated and sometimes impossible. These signs tell more than optimistic statements of European policy makers about keeping the nuclear deal safe. They mean that Europe has to reckon with the US position much more than one can conceive. The final question is how Iran will act. Since 1979, when the Islamic Revolution happened, there were only two cases when Iran stepped back from its previously occupied tough position. The first case occurred in 1988 during Iran-Iraq war, when the Iranian leadership (particularly the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, in 1982) being in the firm belief that Iran having three times more population than its adversary (40 million against 14 million), would go ahead and displace Saddams regime, was warned that the Iran-Iraq War could not be won. In 1988 a group of military commanders tried to prove to the Supreme Leader that Iran has no sufficient power to continue the war for many reasons the main being scarcity in advanced offensive weapons due to international embargo put on Iran in 1980 in regard with US hostage crisis. In addition, Iraq was strongly supported by Saudi Arabia and Kuwait funding it with billions of US dollars to purchase modern armament. There were also some other circumstances being not in favor of Iran, with lack of war experience being one of them. By 1988, the Islamic Republic was exhausted by long and bloody war, in which Iran suffered much greater losses than Iraq. That time Ayatollah Khomeini re-considered the issue and signed resolution 598 to end the war. The second time Iranian leadership decided to compromise in 2015, when burden of sanctions became utterly hard, heavily damaging national economy and leaving little chance for the countrys progress. This time another Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, made a decision to negotiate with the West, calling people to demonstrate heroic flexibility. This decision ended with the sides signing the well-known JCPOA. In both cases there were only a few moves for Iran on the chessboard, all leading to endangering the regime. Now we have to witness next act of Iranian drama and how it will unfold. Yesterday, Ali Larijani, the speaker of the Iranian parliament, said that Tehran prepared a special action plan if the United States leave the nuclear deal and that Washington would strongly regret its decision. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Khalid Kazimov Trend: Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has called on the US to honor its commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA aka nuclear deal), reassuring that Tehran is meeting its obligations under the pact. During a combative speech on Oct. 13, US President Donald Trump condemned Iran as a "fanatical regime" and refused to continue signing off on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. In the meantime, the US president accused Iran of sponsoring terrorism and proposed new sanctions. Iran is under the control of a fanatical regime that seized power in 1979 and forced proud people to submit to its extremist rule. This radical regime has raided the wealth of one of the worlds oldest and most vibrant nations, and spread death, destruction, and chaos all around the globe, Trump said. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Khalid Kazimov Trend: Chief of Staff for the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri heading high-ranking military delegation has arrived in the Syrian capital, Damascus. The visit takes place at the official invitation of Syrias Defense Minister Major General Fahd Jassem al-Freij, Iranian media outlets reported. According to the media reports, the Iranian general is expected to meet Syrian President Basahr al-Assad during the visit. The sides are slated to talk expansion of defense cooperation and combat against terrorism as well as ways to bring about stability to the region. The reports described the top generals visit as a sign of "Irans determination" to fight confront terrorism. Major General Mohammad Baqeri earlier this year visited Turkey to discuss military cooperation with the Irans northwestern neighbor. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 Trend: News Blaze has published an article by American journalist and publicist Nurit Gringer entitled " Armenias Adulated Terrorist: Varoujan Garabedian". The article says that Varoujan Garabedian is a terrorist with infamous ill repute, whom Armenia adopted close to its national heart. So close that he became a national hero. The article further informs about Garabedians terror career. "Garabedian, a Syrian national of Armenian extraction, was a member of the Armenian militant organization ASALA (Armenian Secret Army for the Liberation of Armenia). On July 15, 1983, at that time 20 years old, and the head of ASALA French branch, Garabedian planted a bomb, hidden inside a suitcase, at the Turkish Airlines check-in desk, at Orly Airport, in Paris, France, south terminal. This was part of ASALAs global terrorism campaign against Turkey for the recognition of and reparations for the Armenia Genocide by the Turks. The bomb was made of half a kilo of Semtex explosive, connected to three portable gas bottles. This setup explained the extensive burns on the victims. The explosion killed eight people and injured 55; three people were killed immediately in the blast and another five died in hospital. Four of the victims were French, two Turkish, one American, and one was Swedish," according to the article. Also, at the airport, with $65.00, Garabedian lured a passenger to check the bomb-bag for him, claiming he had too much luggage. Originally, the bomb was intended to explode aboard a Turkish Airways plane while en-route from Paris to Istanbul, Turkey. However, it detonated prematurely on the baggage ramp, thus causing far less loss of life and damage. When the French police questioned Garabedian, he confessed the bomb was assembled in Villiers-le-Bel, at the home of Ohannes Semerci, an Armenian of Turkish nationality. On March 3, 1985, Garabedian was found guilty by a jury and was given a life sentence. However, as the author notes, in the late 1990s, a petition, signed by over one million people in Armenia, caused the Armenian government and civic leaders, including former and current presidents of Armenia, to appeal to the French authorities to pardon Varoujan Garabedian. Armenia offered asylum to Garabedian upon his release from prison. On April 23, 2001, after spending 17 years in jail, Garabedian was pardoned by the French Bourges court of appeals and was released on the condition he is to be deported to Armenia. There, in Armenia, Garabedian was made a hero. "Robert Nazaryan, the mayor of Yerevan city, pledged to provide Garabedian with employment and accommodation. In Yerevan, Garabedian met with then Prime Minister Andranik Margaryan, who was pleased and expressed happiness for his release. Armenian intellectuals, including Zori Balayan,Silva Kaputikyan, Sos Sargsyan, Gevorg Emin, Perch Zeytuntsyan, Levon Ananyan and others expressed support for the terrorist Garabedian," the author said. Gringer further informs about ASALA, an Armenian terror organisation. ASALA was founded in January 20, 1975 by several diaspora Armenians. Through targeted assassinations of Turkish diplomats, ASALA sought to secure the international communitys recognition of the Armenian genocide, in the early 20th century, and to demand the return of Western Armenia from Turkey. The founder of ASALA was Hagop Hagopian from Mosul, Iraq, who, in 1968, became active in the terrorist Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). Many ASALA terrorists were also trained in PLO camps in Lebanon. Throughout 1975-84 ASALA assassinated 41 Turkish diplomats or officials, both in Turkey and abroad. Many of its members were captured and imprisoned in countries where they had committed terrorist acts; of these, several were sentenced to death, while others died in clashes with police forces or of targeted assassinations by intelligence services. After 1997, ASALA ceased to exist as an organization. Its members continued reminding Armenians of their existence in various actions, the author reminds. "When Armenia invaded Azerbaijan in 1992, one of the main perpetrators of the Khojaly Massacre committed by Armenian troops against Azerbaijani civilians, was Monte Melkonian. Melkonian was an Armenian terrorist from California, a UC Berkeley graduate. A passage from the book, written by Markar, Melkonians elder brother, tells us, At about 11:00 p.m. the night before, some 2,000 Armenian fighters had advanced through the high grass on three sides of Khojalu, forcing the residents out through the open side to the east. By the morning of February 26, the refugees had made it to the eastern cusp of Mountainous Karabagh and had begun working their way downhill, toward safety in the Azeri city of Agdam, about six miles away. There, in the hillocks and within sight of safety, Mountainous Karabagh soldiers had chased them down. They just shot and shot, a refugee woman, Raisa Aslanova, testified to a human Rights Watch investigator. The Arabo fighters had then unsheathed the knives they had carried on their hips for so long, and began stabbing. Now, the only sound was the wind whistling through dry grass, a wind that was too early yet to blow away the stench of corpses. Monte crunched over the grass where women and girls lay scattered like broken dolls. The massacre of 613 Azerbaijani civilians, including almost 250 children, women and elderly, was later condemned by Human Rights Watch," the article reads. She further notes that in 2016, amidst significant fanfare, attended by Armenias president, government ministers, ruling party leaders and members of parliament a statue was unveiled in Yerevan, Armenias capital city. The statue was of Garegin Nzhdeh, an Armenian nationalist, a revolutionary fighter, a war hero and Nazi collaborator. "During World War II, Nzhdeh founded the infamous Armenian Legion, of approximately 30,000 men, and made them available to the Nazi commands atrocities. The Armenian Legion, as part of the German Wehrmacht, fought in the Crimean peninsula and in the Caucasus, as well as in southern France, actively assisted the Nazis by rounding up Jews and other undesirables by the Nazis, as well as organized death marches of Jews to ghastly concentration camps. Beyond the appalling erected statue, a square and metro station in Yerevan are also named after this Nazi war criminal, and his legacy is taught to children in Armenian schools. It is taught that he fought for the country, and any sins he committed are ultimately inconsequential, or worse, justified! It goes as far as Eduard Sharmazanov, Armenias Parliament Deputy Speaker, called Nzhdeh a national hero, a patriot who fought for Armenian independence. Until today, it is a great worry that the Nazi Nzhdeh is heralded as a great Armenian hero, even by the Armenian President. For a government that asks the world to recognize the genocide of their own people, celebrating Nazi war criminals should be an oxymoron. Moreover, a country that constantly whitewashes and lies about its invasion of Azerbaijans sovereign land and murdering hundreds of women, children and elderly in the process, for some weak ethnic claim, it is, by far, a double standard. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) found that 1.3 million out of 2.2 million adults in Armenia hold anti-Semitic beliefs, making Armenia the second most anti-Semitic country in Europe," the article reads. The author notes that when summing up Armenias record of formal collaboration with the worst of humanity and its support of terrorists, terrorism and Nazis, how can the world keep silent in the wake of its two decades long belligerent and illegal occupation of 20% of Azerbaijans rightful land? And why the world is not up in arms to solve this injustice against peace-seeking Azerbaijan? Reaction to British Prime Minister Theresa May's working dinner in Brussels Monday focused on an official after-dinner statement suggesting May had won a commitment to "accelerate" talks about Britain leaving the European Union (EU), Xinxua reported. May and the Brexit Secretary David Davis dined with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. While some political commentators were hailing the talks as a breakthrough ahead of a crucial summit later this week of the 27 EU member states, others made a different interpretation of the official communique by May and Juncker. May's hopes of breaking a deadlock in Brexit talks appeared to be given a boost after she and Juncker agreed to "accelerate" negotiations, said the pro-leave Daily Telegraph. The rival broadsheet Guardian, in its commentary, took a different view. It said May's last-ditch attempt to persuade European leaders to open talks on a transition period look doomed to fail. "Downing Street appeared to rule out fresh concessions on Britain's EU divorce bill while Brussels hardened its approach days, just away from then crunch summit," added the Guardian. The Guardian report said a joint statement from Juncker and May following their dinner gave no indication of any movement in the British government's favor. Before leaving London for the dinner engagement in Belgium, May spoke Monday by telephone to the French President Emmanuel Macron, and a day earlier, with the German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The phone calls to the European mainland were seen by political observers as part of May's aim to contact as many European leaders as possible ahead of the key EU summit. Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Rufiz Hafizoglu Trend: Negotiations on the settlement of the crisis between Turkey and the US, which were scheduled for Oct. 17, have been postponed, the Turkish media reports. The reasons havent been disclosed. Earlier, it was reported that a meeting will be held between Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and a US delegation. Previously, the US suspended issuance of visas to Turkish citizens due to the arrest of an employee of the US Consulate General in Istanbul. Turkey also suspended the issuance of visas to US citizens. Turkish authorities, commenting on the arrest of the Consulate Generals employee, noted that he had links with the movement of Fethullah Gulen, who is accused of being involved in the 2016 military coup attempt in Turkey. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 17 By Rufiz Hafizoglu Trend: The visit of Turkish MP Garo Paylan to Yerevan in September, as well as the visit of Turkish citizens Ufuk Uras, Ali Bayramoglu, Said Cekinoglu and Erol Katircioglu to the occupied Azerbaijani territories is a provocation, Kenan Yasan, Turkish journalist, columnist of several newspapers, told Trend. He said that these people once again demonstrated their true identity and political affiliation. Yasan noted that the statement of Garo Paylan, the MP from the Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) that Turkey should recognize the so-called Armenian genocide contradicts common sense and, of course, doesnt reflect the opinion of Turkish citizens. One shouldnt let the forces, the actions of which are directed against the relations between Turkey and Azerbaijan, activate, Yasan said. The expert noted that both in Azerbaijan and Turkey, it is necessary to oppose actions that could spoil the relations between the two fraternal countries. On September 22, Turkish citizens Ufuk Uras, Ali Bayramoglu, Said Cekinoglu and Erol Katircioglu illegally visited Azerbaijans Nagorno-Karabakh region, occupied by the Armenian armed forces. Earlier, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that the illegal visit of Turkish citizens to the occupied Azerbaijani territories did not reflect Ankaras official policy. Grave Crimes Investigation Department of the Azerbaijani Prosecutor General's Office filed a criminal case under the Criminal Codes Article 318.2 (illegally crossing Azerbaijans state borders). All four individuals are accused under the abovementioned article. A measure of restraint in the form of arrest was chosen against them. They were declared internationally wanted. An appeal was sent to the Turkish law enforcement to detain the four individuals. 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. The parliament on Tuesday extended the ongoing state of emergency in Turkey for three more months, Anadolu agency reported. The general assembly approved the Prime Ministrys motion calling for the extension, which would become effective as of Thursday, 1 a.m. (22:00 GMT). The ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party and opposition Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) had voted in favor of the extension, while main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) and People's Democratic Party (HDP) opposed it. Addressing the general assembly on Tuesday, Deputy Premier Bekir Bozdag backed the extension and said Turkey would continue to fight against terrorist organizations, including Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), the PKK and Daesh under the state of emergency. "The state of emergency will end as soon as certain necessary conditions are met," Bozdag said. The extension in the state of emergency would annoy terrorist organizations, including the PKK, FETO and DHKP-C. Because the state of emergency is being carried out quickly and distinctly for them. Those who support such terrorist organization would also be disturbed." He urged the parliament to stay united in the fight against FETO. KYODO NEWS - Oct 15, 2017 - 20:21 | World, All One of the largest of Myanmar's ethnic groups expressed concern Sunday that the fitful process of ending ethnic rebellions around the country could be derailed by the Rohingya crisis in Rakhine state. At a ceremony in the capital Naypyitaw making the second anniversary of the signing of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement, the Karen National Union issued a statement expressing concern over the mass displacement of Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine since late August. "The handling of the crisis in northern Rakhine by the government and the Tatmadaw (military) brings to mind what the KNU and the Karen people experienced under...aggressive military operations that caused over 200,000 Karen people to become internally displaced persons and over 150,000 to become refugees." "The KNU regrets witnessing the repeat of this history while efforts to achieve peace (with officially recognized ethnic groups) are being made, and is gravely concerned that the peace process will be derailed," the statement said. According to a report issued by the U.N. human rights commission last week, more than 500,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh as a result of "well-organized, coordinated, and systematic" military operations against them since Aug. 25, when Rohingya militants attacked nearly 30 police posts and an army camp. The government does not recognize the hundreds of thousands of Muslim Rohingya living in the far western state of Rakhine, bordering Bangladesh, as a legitimate ethnic group, but rather as illegal immigrants. As a result, the Rohingya have not been included in the peace process begun six years ago to end the ethnic rebellions around the Southeast Asian nation of approximately 53 million people. Since the country previously known as Burma regained its independence in 1948, armed conflicts have raged between successive governments and various armed ethnic organizations. However, the ceremony Sunday was held to mark the second anniversary of the signing of a ceasefire agreement between the government headed by former President Thein Sein, and eight rebel groups including the ethnic Karen National Union, which had been fighting the government military for over 60 years. About a dozen other ethnic rebel groups, including the most powerful ones, the United Wa State Army and the Kachin Independence Army, which have tens of thousands of soldiers and occupy land along Myanmar's porous border with China, are yet to sign the agreement or even join the peace process. Other groups are involved in negotiations but have not yet signed the agreement, demanding further concessions from the government and the military. Military commander-in-chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, speaking at the same event, warned that all armed ethnic organizations must sign the agreement as it is the only path to political dialogue. In her address, Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi urged all stakeholders in the peace process to work to turn the country into a federal democratic union. Suu Kyi, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for leading a non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights, noted Myanmar has "not had a single moment of complete peace since Independence" because of the many ethnic conflicts. Suu Kyi said her government, which came to power in April 2016, carries on the peace process initiated by the previous government, but added difficulties and challenges remain as the country moves forward with the peace process. "The national reconciliation and peace efforts of our country cannot be perfect all the time," said Suu Kyi, who has been severely criticized by foreign human rights organizations over recent weeks for visibly doing little to protect Myanmar's Rohingya population. KYODO NEWS - Oct 17, 2017 - 08:48 | Feature, All, World A Japanese atomic-bomb survivor joined activists and diplomats Monday to press Japan and other countries to quickly ratify a landmark treaty banning nuclear weapons. "None of them having (nuclear) weapons will contribute towards having peace," Tokuko Kimura, 82, said to an audience at a New York event. She was 10 when the United States dropped an atomic bomb over Nagasaki on Aug. 9, 1945, three days after detonating another device over Hiroshima. Akira Kawasaki, international steering group member of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, which won this year's Nobel Peace Prize, expressed hope that the treaty will take effect as soon as possible. "With this historic treaty with us, we really have to accelerate the process of signing and ratification so that we can have the treaty be in force as soon as possible," he said. The push has been given a lift by the awarding of the Peace Prize but the nuclear ban treaty cannot go into force until 50 nations ratify it. So far, over 50 have signed. Shion Urata, whose grandfather was exposed to radioactive fallout, expressed disappointment with the Japanese government for not having backed the hibakusha and their call to endorse the ban treaty. The 23-year-old, who is affiliated with a hibakusha project, nevertheless expressed hope that grassroots action can lead to change. "The peoples' power -- they are each very small on their own but when they come together, (it) is a very huge and powerful drive," she said. Many, such as Chizuru Azuma, an actress from Hiroshima, noted the importance of the new conversations that have been prompted by the awarding of the Peace Prize to ICAN. "With the Nobel Peace Prize this year, it has created an opportunity for Japan to think about this more deeply," she said. "Peace is not something that we should pray for, it won't happen if we just pray for it, it is something that we need to think about and make the correct decisions in order to create a peaceful world." Austrian Ambassador to Geneva Thomas Hajnoczi also backed the efforts of the hibakusha to speak out, saying their testimony was instrumental in bringing about the ban treaty. "It is so important that, after 72 years, finally we have now an internationally legal norm prohibiting nuclear weapons," he said, but added that ban supporters along with hibakusha and others have to help "speed up" the process. Monday's event was held at U.N. headquarters in New York under the sponsorship of Japanese nongovernmental organization Peace Boat and the U.N. missions of Austria and Costa Rica, both staunch advocates of nuclear disarmament. By PTI: (Eds: Updating with more comments) New Delhi,Oct 17 (PTI) Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today launched gold options trading on the leading commodity bourse MCX and said this is one of the steps towards formalising gold trade. After the success of the gold options, MCX said it will approach the regulator Sebi seeking permission for other commodities like cotton, crude palm oil, silver and copper. advertisement At present, MCX offers futures trade in gold and other commodities even as the industry has been demanding other products like options trade also for hedging. "This marks avery important evolution in trading of yellow metal itself. It hedges all risks by giving them (traders) the option of futures," Jaitley said after unvieling the options trade on the auspicious day of Dhanteras today. Indians are great buyers of gold. This new product will be extremely successful, he said. Emphasising that the government is taking efforts to formalise gold trade, Jaitley said, "I am sure more it formalises, better it is for consumers, jewellers and those trading in this. Thats in consonance with the business environment for future that we see for us". This is the first product for options trading that the regulator Sebi has allowed after 14 years of commencement of commodity exchanges in the country, he added. According to MCX, gold options contracts are available for trading from today and investors can trade in one kg gold. The contracts will expire in November and January 2018. Asked about measures taken to promote the new product, MCX Managing Director and CEO Mrugank Paranjape said: "Fundamentally, it is an extremely low-cost product. However as an introductory measure, we are not charging any transaction fee on this product till December." From the exchange perspective, that will be a good enough time to develop the market, he said. On plans to launch more commodities under options category, he said, "As per the Sebi rule, options trade is allowed in a commodity which has certain volumes in futures trade. We have 7-8 commodities like cotton, CPO, crude, silver, zinc and copper which qualify." The exchange has not applied for new commodities. "After 3-6 months, we will decide after looking at the success of the gold options." Terming it as a major reform, MCX Chairman Saurabh Chandra said: "Options would complement the existing array of commodity futures contracts and help in enriching the informational efficiency of the market?s price discovery process. It gives market participants great flexibility to manage risk and achieve their trading objectives.? advertisement There has been a very conscious effort by the government and Sebi to develop and integrate commodity markets in a phased manner, he said. To further strengthen the market, he said that a committee has been set up in NITI Aayog to integrate spot and derivative markets. Another committee set up by the finance ministry is looking at way to transform Indias gold market. Finance Secretary Ashok Lavasa, Member, NITI Aayog & Chairman, Economic Advisory Council to Prime Minister (EAC-PM) Bibek Debroy, MCX Chairman Saurabh Chandra and MCX Managing Director and CEO Mrugank Paranjape were present at the event. MCX is the leading commodity bourse in the country with a market share of over 90 per cent. It has alarge presence in gold, base metals, and energy. PTI LUX DP MR --- ENDS --- KYODO NEWS - Oct 17, 2017 - 14:52 | All, World Japanese and U.S. vice foreign ministers agreed in their meeting Tuesday to seek a diplomatic solution to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, despite increasing fears about a military conflict with Pyongyang. Amid growing tensions over a possible fresh provocation by North Korea, Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Shinsuke Sugiyama and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan reiterated the importance of trilateral cooperation with South Korea to bolster pressure on Pyongyang. Sugiyama and Sullivan met in Tokyo a day after South Korea and the United States began a five-day joint naval drill in waters south of the de facto sea border with North Korea, raising speculation that Pyongyang may test-fire another ballistic missile in retaliation. "Cooperation between Japan and the United States, and that between Japan, the United States and South Korea, are more important than before to put diplomatic pressure (on North Korea) to the maximum level," Sugiyama told reporters after the meeting. "While working with China and Russia, we will try to urge North Korea to change its current policy course," he added. Sullivan separately told reporters that the principal focus at the U.S. State Department is on a "diplomatic solution," adding Washington will "continue the pressure campaign" in a bid to "denuclearize the Korean Peninsula." As for a military option, Sullivan only said, "We must...be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail." (Korea Media) "We must be prepared to defend the United States and defend our allies, Japan and South Korea, among others, principally," Sullivan added. Sugiyama and Sullivan also discussed arrangements for U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to Japan from Nov. 5, and exchanged views on a 2015 nuclear agreement by Iran and six major powers including the United States. Trump pledged late last week not to continue certifying Tehran's compliance with the landmark deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear development activities in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. Japan has supported its implementation. Sugiyama and Sullivan are scheduled to visit South Korea later in the day to hold trilateral talks with South Korean Vice Foreign Minister Lim Sung Nam on Wednesday. The three senior officials will gather as the Korean Central News Agency, North Korea's official media, criticized in a commentary released Saturday the U.S.-South Korea joint military drill as a "reckless act of war maniacs," saying it "only drives the tense situation on the peninsula into the point of explosion." In China, meanwhile, the twice-a-decade Communist Party congress will start on Wednesday. North Korea carried out its sixth nuclear test in September, when Chinese President Xi Jinping was to host a summit of emerging economies in his country -- an important diplomatic chance to cast himself as an influential global leader ahead of the congress. Related coverage: Trump to meet Abe, abductees' kin during Japan trip from Nov. 5 Japan labels N. Korea "significant geopolitical risk" to global economy OPINION: Learning art of deal in Pacific diplomacy KYODO NEWS - Oct 17, 2017 - 05:34 | All U.S. President Donald Trump will visit Japan from Nov. 5 for talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and a meeting with the families of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s, the White House said Monday. During a five-nation Asia tour plus a stop in Hawaii from Nov. 3 to 14, Trump will "call on the international community to join together in maximizing pressure on North Korea," it said in a statement. The Abe-Trump talks and Trump's meeting with the kin of abduction victims -- including the parents of Megumi Yokota who was abducted when she was 13 -- are expected to take place on Nov. 6, Japanese officials said. Trump will also meet with U.S. forces stationed in Japan and members of Japan's Self-Defense Forces, according to the White House. In his address at the U.N. General Assembly last month, Trump condemned Pyongyang's abduction of Japanese nationals, citing the case of Yokota, who was taken from Niigata Prefecture on the Sea of Japan coast while on her way home from school in 1977. "We know it kidnapped a sweet 13-year-old Japanese girl from a beach in her own country to enslave her as a language tutor for North Korea's spies," he said. (Supplied Image) In the bilateral summit, Abe and Trump are expected to affirm close coordination in addressing North Korea's nuclear, missile and abduction issues. Japan officially lists 17 citizens as abduction victims and suspects North Korea's involvement in many more disappearances. While five of the 17 were repatriated in 2002, Pyongyang maintains that eight -- including Yokota -- have died and the other four never entered the country. After visiting Japan, Trump will travel to South Korea for talks with President Moon Jae In on Nov. 7. Trump will also speak at the National Assembly, at which he will celebrate the "enduring alliance and friendship" between Washington and Seoul, according to the White House. During a visit to Beijing from Nov. 8, the U.S. leader will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and attend a series of commercial and cultural events. On Nov. 10, Trump will travel to Danang, Vietnam, for a summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum and deliver a speech at an APEC business summit. "In the speech, the president will present the United States' vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region and underscore the important role the region plays in advancing America's economic prosperity," the White House said. After meeting with Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang in Hanoi on Nov. 11, Trump will visit Manila the following day for summit meetings related to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. He will attend a U.S.-ASEAN summit and bilateral talks with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Nov. 13 before heading back home, according to the White House. Legit.ng came across a video of popular comedian AY Makun showing off the huge amount of money his brother, Yomi Casual, made from his wedding. Legit.ng earlier reported about top fashion designer, Yomi Makun aka Yomi Casual marrying the love of his life, Grace. About three days after the wedding which took place on October 14, 2017, Yomi's elder brother, AY, decided to show off the huge amount of money the lucky couple got from attendees, in a video he shared on social media. According to AY, the money which was spread out on a table while some remained in sacks, were huge compared to the N75,000 he made on his own wedding day nine years ago. Yomi Casual and his wife made 'too much' money at their wedding. Photo: Facebook READ ALSO: Fashion designer Yomi Casual and wife release hot pre-wedding photos Sharing the video, AY wrote "I remember making ONLY 75k at my wedding.... chai! @yomicasual and @fabjewels_official there is God o" READ ALSO: Photos from white wedding of Yomi Casual See how people reacted below: Meanwhile, Dolapo Badmos, the Lagos state zonal Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), waded into the matter, as she addressed AY for 'endangering' his brother and his wife by flaunting their wealth. She said: "Why should @aycomedian post this on social media, he is making his brother @yomicasual and his newly wedded wife susceptible to attack and also increase the worries of the police, The reason people should avoid flaunting wealth on social media. Lets take caution please." What do you think? How long should it take between a proposal and the actual wedding? - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng According to the Pew survey, more than one-fourth or 27 per cent Indians want a strong leader. By PTI: More than four-fifths of Indian citizens trust their government, but interestingly, a majority of Indians also support military rule and autocracy, a latest Pew survey said. "In India, where the economy has grown on average by 6.9 per cent since 2012, 85 per cent (of people) trust their national government," Pew Research said in a report based on its survey on governance and trust among key countries across the world. advertisement Notably, in India, which has strong democratic credentials since the last seven decades, according to Pew, a majority (55 per cent) of its people support autocracy in one way or the other. In fact, more than one-fourth (27 per cent) of them want a strong leader. WHAT ARE THE GLOBAL TRENDS Nearly half of Russians (48 per cent) back governance by a strong leader, but rule by a strong leader is generally unpopular, it said. A global median of 26 per cent say a system in which a strong leader can make decisions without interference from parliament or the courts would be a good way of governing. Roughly seven-in-10 (71 per cent) say it would be a bad type of governance. India is one of the three countries in the Asia Pacific region where people support technocracy. "Asian-Pacific public generally back rule by experts, particularly people in Vietnam (67 per cent), India (65 per cent) and the Philippines (62 per cent)," it said. Only Australians are notably wary as 57 per cent say it would be a bad way to govern, and only 41 per cent support governance by experts, the report said. MILITARY RULE A GOOD THING According to the survey, roughly half of both Indians (53 per cent) and South Africans (52 per cent), who live in nations that often hold themselves up as democratic exemplars for their regions, say military rule would be a good thing for their countries. But in these societies, older people (those aged 50 and older) are the least supportive of the army running the country, and they are the ones who either personally experienced the struggle to establish democratic rule or are the immediate descendants of those democratic pioneers, Pew said. Only one in 10 in Europe back military rule. Pew said more than half in each of the 38 nations polled consider representative democracy a very or somewhat good way to govern their country. Yet, in all countries, pro-democracy attitudes coexist, to varying degrees, with openness to non-democratic forms of governance, including rule by experts, a strong leader, or the military. ALSO WATCH: PM Modi slams critics, says economic slowdown not a new thing --- ENDS --- advertisement Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS) said Tuesday that while clashes in the Kurdistan region of Iraq posed a risk to oil output, intensifying geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran remained a more formidable and longer-term threat to global oil supply. After several weeks of fairly flat trade, a risk premium has returned to oil markets and boosted global prices. On Monday, Iraqi forces moved into the oil-rich province of Kirkuk threatening oil supplies while political tensions between the U.S. and Iran continued to reverberate. "In the case of Iran, there are likely no immediate impacts on oil flows and there remains high uncertainty on potential reintroduction of U.S. secondary sanctions. If they are, we expect that several hundred thousand barrels of Iranian exports would be immediately at risk," analysts at Goldman Sachs said in a research note published Tuesday. On Friday, President Donald Trump had refused to certify that Tehran was complying with the terms of a landmark 2015 agreement aimed at controlling Iran's nuclear program. Instead, he asked lawmakers to toughen the agreement, negotiated between Iran and six world powers, by amending a U.S. law. At the same time, the U.S. administration will try to convince European leaders to impose new sanctions on Tehran and return to the negotiating table.In the absence of support from other countries, Goldman suggested it is unlikely production would fall by 1 million barrels per day to the levels before Western sanctions were imposed on Tehran.'Kirkuk oil field cluster is at risk'"In the case of Kurdistan, the 500,000 barrel-per-day (bpd) Kirkuk oil field cluster is at risk with initial reports that 350,000 bpd has shut in, although this remains unclear," Goldman analysts said.High revenue per barrel and low production costs in the oil-rich Kirkuk province would most likely "incentivize" both sides to keep oil flowing, analysts at the U.S. investment bank added. Iraqi forces loyal to the central government in Baghdad rapidly took over almost all of the disputed Kirkuk province on Monday, with Kurdish forces retreating to nearby oilfields. These military maneuvers in Iraq come after the country's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region voted overwhelmingly in favor of independence in a referendum last month. While Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi denounced the vote as unconstitutional and ordered the result to be annulled, the Erbil-based Kurdistan Regional Government defended the referendum as legitimate and pushed for dialogue with Baghdad. 'Nearly half of Iraqi Kurdistan's exports in the balance'"As feared, Kirkuk and the surrounding oil fields are caught in the crossfire of the dispute between Baghdad and Erbil, placing nearly half of Iraqi Kurdistan's exports in the balance," Helima Croft, global head of commodity strategy at RBC Capital Markets, said in a note. Iraq is OPEC 's second-largest oil producer. Kurdish-controlled areas of Iraq are among the most productive in the country and contain much of its energy infrastructure. After a strong rally in the previous session, geopolitical tensions edged oil prices higher on Tuesday morning. Brent crude rose 0.6 percent to $58.16 a barrel while U.S. oil futures hovered near the $52 level in lunchtime trade. CNBC's Ted Kemp and Tom DiChristopher contributed to this report. Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS) said Tuesday that while clashes in the Kurdistan region of Iraq posed a risk to oil output, intensifying geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran remained a more formidable and longer-term threat to global oil supply. After several weeks of fairly flat trade, a risk premium has returned to oil markets and boosted global prices. On Monday, Iraqi forces moved into the oil-rich province of Kirkuk threatening oil supplies while political tensions between the U.S. and Iran continued to reverberate. "In the case of Iran, there are likely no immediate impacts on oil flows and there remains high uncertainty on potential reintroduction of U.S. secondary sanctions. If they are, we expect that several hundred thousand barrels of Iranian exports would be immediately at risk," analysts at Goldman Sachs said in a research note published Tuesday. On Friday, President Donald Trump had refused to certify that Tehran was complying with the terms of a landmark 2015 agreement aimed at controlling Iran's nuclear program. Instead, he asked lawmakers to toughen the agreement, negotiated between Iran and six world powers, by amending a U.S. law. At the same time, the U.S. administration will try to convince European leaders to impose new sanctions on Tehran and return to the negotiating table. In the absence of support from other countries, Goldman suggested it is unlikely production would fall by 1 million barrels per day to the levels before Western sanctions were imposed on Tehran. 'Kirkuk oil field cluster is at risk' "In the case of Kurdistan, the 500,000 barrel-per-day (bpd) Kirkuk oil field cluster is at risk with initial reports that 350,000 bpd has shut in, although this remains unclear," Goldman analysts said. High revenue per barrel and low production costs in the oil-rich Kirkuk province would most likely "incentivize" both sides to keep oil flowing, analysts at the U.S. investment bank added. Iraqi forces loyal to the central government in Baghdad rapidly took over almost all of the disputed Kirkuk province on Monday, with Kurdish forces retreating to nearby oilfields. These military maneuvers in Iraq come after the country's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region voted overwhelmingly in favor of independence in a referendum last month. While Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi denounced the vote as unconstitutional and ordered the result to be annulled, the Erbil-based Kurdistan Regional Government defended the referendum as legitimate and pushed for dialogue with Baghdad. 'Nearly half of Iraqi Kurdistan's exports in the balance' "As feared, Kirkuk and the surrounding oil fields are caught in the crossfire of the dispute between Baghdad and Erbil, placing nearly half of Iraqi Kurdistan's exports in the balance," Helima Croft, global head of commodity strategy at RBC Capital Markets, said in a note. Iraq is OPEC 's second-largest oil producer. Kurdish-controlled areas of Iraq are among the most productive in the country and contain much of its energy infrastructure. After a strong rally in the previous session, geopolitical tensions edged oil prices higher on Tuesday morning. Brent crude rose 0.6 percent to $58.16 a barrel while U.S. oil futures hovered near the $52 level in lunchtime trade. CNBC's Ted Kemp and Tom DiChristopher contributed to this report. More From CNBC By PTI: By Lalit K Jha United Nations, Oct 17 (PTI) Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal have been elected to the UN Human Rights Council along with 12 other countries. The other nations elected to the human rights wing of the UN are Angola, Australia, Chile, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Qatar, Senegal, Slovakia, Spain, and Ukraine. advertisement This Human Rights Council election by the UN General Assembly was the first one conducted with new ballot papers. In the past, ballot papers had been completely blank. "Now, they contain the names of the candidate countries, along with additional space to inscribe other names. The idea was to make the process smoother," said Brendan Varma, spokesperson of UN General Assembly President Miroslav Lajcak. During a news conference held at the UN headquarters in New York, Varma was asked for Lajcaks reaction to member states distributing gifts in order to garner votes in the Human Rights Council elections, and whether there should be value caps on such gifts. Varma said the UN General Assembly president believed that the election should be a competition between candidates ? not a competition over who could give the most expensive gifts. Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, former chairwoman of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee, said now that countries like Qatar, Congo and Pakistan have joined the likes of Cuba, Venezuela and China in the UN Human Rights Council, the US must withdraw from it or "we legitimise" human rights abusers. "For the UN to elect Qatar, Congo or Pakistan as a world judge on human rights is like makinga pyromaniac into the town fire chief," said Hillel Neuer, executive director of UN Watch. PTI LKJ KUN --- ENDS --- As far as Airbus and Bombardier are concerned it's a win-win deal made in heaven (AFP Photo/LEON NEAL) Paris (AFP) - Airbus and Bombardier are inflicting double damage on Boeing with a deal that fills a gap in the Europeans' aircraft range and gives Bombardier a fighting chance to avoid punishing US tariffs, analysts say. In the middle of the European night, Airbus issued a surprise announcement that it would take a majority stake in Bombardier's marquee C-Series airliner programme, aiming for significant production savings on the C-Series aircraft and making use of Airbus's international reach for sales. The agreement, which Airbus chief Tom Enders called "a win-win deal for everyone", gives the European company a stake in Bombardiers' mid-range programme without the need to immediately inject cash -- allowing it to keep its war chest intact for future battles with arch-rival Boeing. "Boeing has walked into its own trap," said analysts at the Aurel BGC brokerage in Paris. "They tried to shut their northern competitor out of the American market and are now faced with an alliance between their two main rivals." - The beauty of the operation - "The beauty of the operation is that it is free," Aurel BGC added. "In the short term, Airbus won't have to spend a single euro." For Bombardier, the deal means crucial support for a programme that was struggling even before President Donald Trump's administration slapped a 220-percent countervailing duty, as well as an 80-percent anti-dumping tax, on Bombardier CS100 and CS300 aircraft imported into the United States. The world's aerospace sector is consolidating and Airbus is getting one step ahead of Boeing with access to Bombardier's 100 to 150 seaters which are seen as a perfect fit for its existing portfolio. "Airbus is extending its product range by protecting its positions from the bottom up," said Philippe Plouvier at the Boston Consulting Group. "There are real commercial and strategic synergies here for Airbus whose future lies in pursuing its Asian strategy and strengthening its positions in North America," he said. Story continues Airbus will now be able to concentrate even more on the core of its portfolio, medium-range aircraft with 180 seats or more, he said. Bombardier, meanwhile, has been unable to transform its industrial prowess into commercial success, and found itself buckling under development costs running up to $5.4 billion. - Bombardier 'out of options' - Bombardier "had to accept that they really were heading into difficulties," Plouvier said. "They were running out of options and to top everything off they were under attack from Boeing." Airbus will now take 50.01 percent of the shares in CSALP, the entity which manages the C-Series programme, with Bombardier and Investissement Quebec holding 31 and 19 percent respectively. The programme's production headquarters will remain in Quebec. Uncertainty over the future of the C-Series programme has kept potential buyers away, analysts said, but Airbus predicted that this would now no longer be a problem. "With that partnership, these potential customers will be convinced that this is not only a great product but that it is there to stay," Enders said. Bombardier chief Alain Bellemare said he was especially looking to tap into Airbus's expertise in supply chains, marketing and aftermarket support to "unleash value". Recognising that the American aircraft market is key, Airbus and Bombardier said they plan to build a joint assembly line in Mobile, Alabama, where Airbus already has a production facility. - Boeing calls deal 'questionable' - Apart from bringing the operation closer to American customers, the move is also a powerful response to the tariffs and taxes Trump has aimed at Bombardier and which a presence on US soil could make redundant. "The fact is when you produce an aircraft in the US, it is not subject to any import duty under the current US rules," said Bellemare. Boeing was quick to condemn the deal between its rivals. "This looks like a questionable deal between two heavily state-subsidised competitors to skirt the recent findings of the US government. Our position remains that everyone should play by the same rules for free and fair trade to work," said Phil Musser, a spokesman for Boeing. But Bellemare retorted: "We're not circumventing anything here." Investors liked the deal, pushing Airbus shares four percent higher in European afternoon trading on the Paris stock exchange. Boeing shares dropped one percent in early trading in New York. The Bombardier CS100 passenger jet is pictured on the opening day of the Farnborough Airshow, south west of London, on July 11, 2016 (AFP Photo/Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP) In the face of a bitter trade dispute with Boeing, Airbus announced it would take a majority stake in Bombardier's marquee C-Series airliner programme, as the Canadian firm battles a stiff tariff ruling in the United States. The landmark agreement comes after the administration of President Donald Trump slapped a 220-percent countervailing duty, as well as an 80-percent anti-dumping tax, on Bombardier CS100 and CS300 aircraft imported into the United States. Boeing accuses Bombardier of manufacturing its 100-150 seat planes with public subsidies and selling them at a loss to Delta Air Lines. The agreement between Airbus and Bombardier aims to allow for significant production savings on the C-Series aircraft and to make use of Airbus's international reach for sales, the two groups said in a statement. "It's a win-win deal for everyone," said the president of Airbus, Tom Enders. "I have no doubt that our partnership with Bombardier will boost sales and the value of this programme enormously." - Major strategic decision - A Boeing spokesman told AFP that the deal represented "a questionable agreement between two competitors, both heavily dependent on state subsidies, to circumvent" recent American decisions on tariffs and anti-dumping taxes. However Airbus shares shot up nearly three percent in morning trading as traders welcomed the deal. "Even if Airbus has had a difficult past due to" trade disputes underway with Boeing, "the group has taken a major strategic decision to link up with Bombardier", said analysts at Paris-based Aurel BGC brokerage. Boeing and Airbus have been slugging it out for years at the World Trade Organization, the global court for trade disputes, over billions in government support for development of aircraft. Airbus will take 50.01 percent of the shares in CSALP, the entity which manages the C-Series programme, with Bombardier and Investissement Quebec holding 31 and 19 percent respectively. Story continues The programme's production headquarters will remain in Quebec. "We are very happy to welcome Airbus to the C-Series programme," Bombardier's CEO Alain Bellemare said. "Airbus is the perfect partner for us, Quebec, and Canada," he added. A deal between the two companies had been mooted previously, but discussions stalled two years ago and the project was abandoned. Bombardier's C-Series is the first new design in the 100- to 150-seat category in of single-aisle aircraft in more than 25 years. A state-of-the-art aircraft largely built from composite materials, it complements Airbus A320 family of aircraft which can fly 150 to 240 passengers. The C-Series will thus widen Airbus' offer in fuel-efficient jets, giving airlines an option suited for routes on which they need less capacity. "The single-aisle market is a key growth driver, representing 70 percent of the expected global future demand for aircraft," according to a statement from Bombardier. - Trade dispute - The Trump administration's imposition of anti-dumping duties at Boeing's urging has sparked a trade row, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowing to to nix plans to buy 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from Boeing, and Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May expressing concern for 4,200 C-Series wing assembly jobs in Northern Ireland. Workers at Bombardier's factory in Northern Ireland welcomed the agreement with Airbus. "This deal, which will see Airbus take on responsibility for procurement, sales and marketing and customer support expertise has the potential to open the door to new markets and ensure long-term sustainability of C-Series production..." said Davy Thompson, regional coordinating officer at the Unite trade union. While US-based Delta Airlines has ordered 75 of the C-Series, Bombardier has had difficulty in securing enough orders to ensure its profitable future. The C-Series was a step up for the firm, which builds business and regional passenger jets, and doesn't have as developed a global sales and service network as its rivals Airbus and Boeing. The government of Canada's Quebec province had to come to the rescue of Bombardier in 2015 after delays to the plane and a heave debt load threatened to crash the entire firm. burs-rl/spm An Airbus A320neo aircraft and a Bombardier CSeries aircraft are pictured during a news conference to announce a partnership between Airbus and Bombardier on the C Series aircraft programme, in Colomiers near Toulouse, France, October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Regis Duvignau By Allison Lampert and Tim Hepher MONTREAL/TOULOUSE, France (Reuters) - Boeing Co said on Tuesday that Bombardier Inc's CSeries jets could still be hit with high U.S. import duties, even if they are assembled in Alabama through an industry-changing deal with Airbus. The deal announced on Monday gives Airbus a majority stake in Bombardier's troubled CSeries jetliner program, securing the plane's future and giving the Canadian firm a possible way out of a damaging trade dispute with Boeing, in which the U.S. Commerce Department has threatened to impose a 300 percent import duties. Boeing said that the announced deal has no effect on the pending U.S. Department of Commerce proceedings. "Any duties finally levied against the C-Series... will have to be paid on any imported C-Series airplane or part, or it will not be permitted into the country," Michael Luttig, Boeing's general counsel, said in a statement. Investors cheered the winners of the deal that is set to shake up the $125 billion a year market for large jets. Bombardier shares jumped 15.7 percent on Tuesday, while shares in Toulouse, France-based Airbus rose 4.8 percent. The transaction would give Airbus a 50.01 percent stake in an entity recently carved out of Bombardier to produce and market the CSeries, four years after it first flew with a goal to enter the large jets market. But in a move emblematic of the huge risks of aerospace competition, Bombardier will get just one dollar for the majority stake in exchange for Airbus's purchasing and marketing power to support an aircraft that has won fans for its fuel efficiency but had not secured a new order in 18 months for the 110-130 seat plane due to doubts over its future. Bombardier's strategy of performing final assembly in Alabama might allow the CSeries to avoid duties because the trade case targets partially and fully-assembled aircraft, said U.S. international trade lawyer William Perry. Bombardier and Airbus could argue they are importing parts, like the wing from Northern Ireland, to be assembled in the United States. Story continues "That may be the loophole Bombardier is hoping to use," he said by phone. 'ONE DOLLAR DEAL' In reality, the terms of the deal mean Bombardier could pay Airbus to take over by agreeing to underwrite $700 million of risks related to cost overruns in coming years. "It's an unexpected move by Airbus but indicates they see good market potential for the CSeries. Neither they nor Boeing currently offer an aircraft in the regional jet market," said aerospace consultant John Strickland of JLS Consulting. The deal is similar to one that Airbus walked away from in 2015 when it decided the investment in a plane that had not yet entered service was too risky - with one major difference: that some of the jets will be produced in the United States. That could change the power balance in Bombardier's costly trade dispute with Boeing, though it is not the main reason why the two former rivals have come together, executives said. "Assembly in the U.S. can resolve the (tariff) issue because it then becomes a domestic product," Bombardier's chief executive, Alain Bellemare, told reporters at Airbus's headquarters in Toulouse. Airbus CEO Tom Enders hailed the tie-up as "a win for Canada ... a win for the UK," referring to Bombardier's wing-making factory in Northern Ireland whose future had been threatened by the distant trade war. He said it would also create new U.S. jobs. The deal appeared to catch Boeing off guard. Locked in a separate 13-year trade dispute with Airbus, Boeing on Monday called it a "questionable deal" between two of its subsidized competitors. CANADIAN APPROVAL Bellemare said he hoped the deal would be approved within six to 12 months. Canadian Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains, who must officially decide whether to green-light the deal, said it looked like "Bombardier's new proposed partnership ... would help position the CSeries for success". Bombardier said the partnership should more than double the value of the CSeries program. While it will lose control of a project developed at a cost of $6 billion, the deal gives the CSeries improved economies of scale and a better sales network. For Airbus, the deal strengthens the bottom end of its narrowbody portfolio after poor sales of its own A319 model and expands its global footprint, potentially opening up further deals in other sectors in Canada. Tony Webber, a former chief economist at Qantas, said the CSeries could complement Airbus's existing single-aisle models. Bellemare said the deal was expected to close in the second half of 2018. "We're doing this deal here not because of this Boeing petition. We are doing this deal because it is the right strategic move for Bombardier," he said, referring to Boeing's complaint that the Canadian firm received illegal subsidies and dumped CSeries planes at "absurdly low" prices. NO JOB LOSSES Bombardier said the deal would not result in job losses and would keep the head office in Montreal. Unions said the deal could benefit workers. The Boeing-Bombardier dispute has snowballed into a bigger multilateral trade dispute, with British Prime Minister Theresa May asking U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene to save British jobs. Bombardier is the largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland and May's Conservatives rely on the support of the small Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) party for their majority in parliament. Business Secretary Greg Clark said Britain would work closely with the planemakers, while the DUP said the agreement was "incredibly significant news" for Belfast. Talks for the deal between Airbus and Bombardier first started over dinner at the end of August. Enders said the deal was different from an earlier round of talks in 2015, when he abruptly ordered an end to negotiations. He said the CSeries' had since been certified, entered service and was performing well. Some analysts said the deal could drive Boeing closer together with Brazil's Embraer, with which it already cooperates. Bombardier is in the middle of a five-year turnaround plan after considering bankruptcy because of a cash-crunch as it developed multiple planes simultaneously, including the CSeries. ($1 = 1.2529 Canadian dollars) (Additional reporting by Ankur Banerjee in Bengaluru; Alana Wise in Atlanta; David Ljunggren in Arlington, Virginia; Michael Holden in London; and Richard Lough and Sudip Kar-Gupta in Paris; Writing by Denny Thomas, Guy Faulconbridge and Richard Lough; Editing by Mark Potter and Lisa Shumaker) 'Me Too': How Alyssa Milano's Two-Word Protest Against Sexual Harassment Went Viral A simple, two-word phrase flooded Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram on Sunday night and Monday morning: me too. Women posted the phrase at the urging of actress Alyssa Milano, who on Sunday suggested that women write me too if theyd been the victim of sexual harassment or sexual assault. If all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted wrote Me too as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem, she wrote. The campaign, which Milano credited to a friend, came amid a snowballing scandal related to the alleged sexual misconduct of film producer Harvey Weinstein. Subscribe: The Broadsheet, Fortunes newsletter on powerful women. As of Monday morning, more than 6 million Facebook users were talking about me too and the #metoo hashtag was trending on Twitter. If youve been sexually harassed or assaulted write me too as a reply to this tweet. pic.twitter.com/k2oeCiUf9n Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) October 15, 2017 Some women simply wrote the two words, while others used it as an opportunity to share stories about their abuse. I was young, breaking into journalism. He, an editor. Invited me into his motel room. I still feel uncomfortable naming the newspaper #metoo https://t.co/n8r38j76rw DianeDulken ???????????????? (@DianeDulken) October 16, 2017 Ask a woman if she has ever been a target of sexual assault or harassment. She'll respond "Which time?"#MeToo #allwomen Emily Brandwin (@CIAspygirl) October 16, 2017 Milano, who starred in Whos the Boss? and Melrose Place, also appeared in Charmed alongside actress Rose McGowan, who last week accused Weinstein of raping her. (Through a spokesperson, Weinstein denied allegations of non-consensual sex.) Twitter briefly suspended McGowan last week as she tweeted about the Weinstein scandal, which prompted another outcry of female solidarity as women boycotted the social media platform to protest its silencing of womens voices. Apple lost a retrial a year ago in an ongoing patent dispute with VirnetX over secure communications protocols in FaceTime and other applications, and today the latter company announced the total amount Apple finally will be required to pay up, after the court that heard the case -- United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas -- denied all of Apple's motions filed in the wake of that decision, and affirmed VirnetX's motions. According to Virnetx, total final judgement amount will now be $439.7 million, about $140 million higher than previously disclosed. The sum includes the jury verdict of $302.4 million announced last year, additional willful infringement of $41.3 million (upping the royalty rate per device to $1.80 from the $1.20 originally determined a year ago); and interest, costs and attorney fees of $96 million. Apple has been in touch with us, and a spokesperson confirmed that it plans to appeal this final judgement. (The motions can still be appealed even if the original case was already appealed and lost.) Similarly, there is another dispute that may sway how this case ultimately goes. Currently all four VirnetX patents in the suit have been invalidated by the Patent and Trademark Office, or its Patent Trial and Appeal Board, or both. This, confusingly, doesn't actually halt the pace of VirnetX's patent case: the invalidation is not legally binding until all appeals have been exhausted (and separately that case appears to still be ongoing). Back in the Eastern District of Texas, VirnetX noted that the court denied all of Apple's motions: motion for judgment as a matter of law of non-infringement, motion for judgment as a matter of law on damages, motion for a new trial on infringement, and motion for a new trial on damages. The announcement today appears to finally put to rest a case that has been in progress for about seven years, with VirnetX's first patent infringement case against Apple filed in August 2010. Story continues One of the significant takeaways from this case is not just the amount that Apple has been ordered to pay, but the precedent that it will set for VirnetX and other companies that are looking to set patent licensing deals -- or patent infringment suits -- related to security technology. "We are elated with the Court's Final Judgement of $439 million in that not only did it affirm the jury's verdict of $1.20 per infringing iPhone, iPad and Mac Product, but also added for willful infringement, interest and attorney fees. This is the third time a jury has ruled in our favor against Apple," said Kendall Larsen, VirnetX CEO and president, in a statement. "This Final Judgement amount is large because sales of Apple's infringing products are large. The cost of our security technology in infringing devices has been apportioned and is less than a quarter of one percent of the device's cost. We believe this established per device rate for security is very reasonable and will greatly assist us with our domestic and global licensing efforts." Other companies that have lost cases to VirnetX -- which is sometimes referred to as a patent troll for the fact that it's most often in the news because of these suits -- include Microsoft (which ultimately paid around $200 million to the company). VirnetX also recently entered into a "patent standstill" deal HTC, specifically related to LTE, which essentially means that the two will not file any suits against each other as they continue to negotiate deals. While there may be a precedent getting set for what VirnetX believes it can now collect from other tech companies that it claims are infringing on its intellectual property, the case is in another sense a throwback. The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas has traditionally been one of the most popular venues for patent cases brought by patent trolls -- accounting for between 24 percent and 40 percent of all patent-related cases at different times, in part because of a rapid litigation timetable that is in place in court there (which forces settlements faster, and favors the patent holders). A recent ruling by the Supreme Court, in a case against Kraft Foods, however, determined that patent suits can only be brought now in districts where a company is based, or where it does a significant amount of its business. Updated with comment from Apple. By PTI: Islamabad, Oct 17 (PTI) Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said that Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has every right to express his opinion on the countrys economic situation, as he sought to end a potentially damaging spat between the powerful military and the interior minister. Abbasis intervention came in the backdrop of a simmering controversy stirred by a recent spat between Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal and chief military spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor over the Army chiefs remarks on the woes of Pakistans economy. advertisement "There might be difference of opinion... [but] There is no civil-military tension," Abbasi said. "If everyone is free to give their opinion on economy, then why cant the army chief talk about economy", he said in an interview on Aaj television last night. Abbasis comments came two days after one of his partys senior lawmakers, Rana Afzal Khan, said the Army chief should comment on the economy only at the National Security Committee and not publicly. In an unusual move, Gen. Bajwa had voiced concern at Pakistans "sky-high debt" and called for broadening tax base and bringing in financial discipline to break the "begging bowl". The Army chief said that economic stability was tied deeply to Pakistans security concerns. Last week military spokesman Maj Gen Ghafoor told a TV channel that "if the economy is not bad, it isnt good either". Interior minister Ahsan hit back immediately advising the military spokesperson to "refrain from commenting on the economy...[because] irresponsible statements could damage Pakistans image globally". "Disappointed" by Ahsans reaction, Maj Gen Ghafoor said he, in his capacity as the military spokesperson, spoke on behalf of the Pakistan Army. He also maintained that he had only repeated what army chief Gen Bajwa said at a seminar in Karachi a day earlier. He also said that the Pakistan Army poses "no threat" to democracy in the country but cautioned the political leaders that there could be a danger to the democratic institution if feelings of the people are not met. "There is no threat to democracy from the Pakistan Army; [but] there could be a threat to democracy if its [democracys] requirements are not being met," Ghafoor said. In Pakistan, there was a civilian supremacy and every decision ranging from appointment of army chief and military operations is coming from the head of the government and being implemented, he said. The powerful Army, which enjoys considerable influence over policy decisions in Pakistan, has ruled the country for much of its life since it gained independence. The verbal duel between the Army and Ahsan provided grist to rumour mill as analysts and TV anchors talked about strain in civil-military relations, Dawn newspaper reported. advertisement The World Bank has warned Pakistan that its increasing fiscal deficit could put macro-economic management at risk and said it needs around USD 17 billion to cover the rising current account deficit and debt payments in the year 2018. "Pakistan is facing headwinds in the external sector and a rising fiscal deficit that could put macro-economic management at risk," the Bank said yesterday after it concluded talks with a visiting Pakistani delegation on the sidelines of the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. PTI AKJ AKJ --- ENDS --- By Allison Lampert MONTREAL (Reuters) - Canada's Bombardier Inc is continuing to look at strategic options for its aerospace division but no deal is imminent, people familiar with the matter told Reuters on Monday, as the company seeks to shore up sales and improve finances. As part of that process, the Canadian train-and-plane maker has held informal talks with Chinese companies among others in recent months, but the sources played down the chances of Europe's Airbus being a likely partner. On Sunday, Bloomberg reported that Bombardier was considering disposal of aerospace assets including its Q400 turboprop and CRJ regional-jet unit, while looking at partnerships with other aerospace companies, with Airbus among the prospective buyers. Bombardier's talks with Chinese companies are aimed at delivering an investment in the company's 110 to 130 seat CSeries jets and improving the aircraft's sales through better access to the fast-growing Chinese aviation market, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters earlier this autumn. The company has guided for a $400 million loss in commercial aircraft this year, but has set a breakeven target for 2020. The sources declined to be identified as the discussions are confidential. "A CSeries JV with the Chinese is an option we have long contemplated," wrote Credit Suisse analyst Robert Spingarn in a note to clients on Monday. "Canada would contribute a share of the program, allowing China to access first rate aerospace technology. China would contribute capital and likely place a major order for the aircraft." Bombardier has been pushing for CSeries orders with carriers like China Southern and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to visit China in December. Investment talks have been complicated, among other reasons, by the presence of various stakeholders, including the Quebec provincial government, which acquired a 49 percent stake in the plane program for $1 billion in 2015. The deal gives Quebec a say in any other potential investor in the CSeries program and Bombardier must keep its corporate head office in Montreal. What is more, any deal involving the sale of aerospace technology to Chinese buyers would need the approval of Canada's federal government and Bombardier's founding family, which holds a controlling stake in the company through its dual class structure. A deal with an outside investor could allow Bombardier to repurchase the Quebec stake in the CSeries, which could eliminate the subsidy issue, Spingarn wrote. Bombardier was not immediately available for comment on Monday, and had declined to comment on Sunday. Airbus declined to comment. Bombardier has been looking at strategic options for its aerospace division since 2015, when it held talks with Airbus for a majority stake in the company's CSeries jet. But those discussions ended without a deal, Reuters reported then. Bombardier's aerospace division has been under pressure because of lackluster demand for its turboprops and regional jets, and more recently because of a trade dispute with U.S. planemaker Boeing Co over the CSeries. The U.S. Commerce Department has notched up proposed trade duties on Bombardier's CSeries jets to nearly 300 percent after Boeing complained that the Canadian company received illegal subsidies and dumped the planes at "absurdly low" prices. Bombardier shares were up 1.7 percent at C$2.37 by late morning while the benchmark Canada share index was up 0.2 percent. (Reporting By Allison Lampert; Editing by Marguerita Choy) Jim Cramer goes over the possible reasons for Wall Street's newfound love for General Motors and wonders if the hype will last. CNBC's Jim Cramer often sees the stock market as a fashion show in which stocks fall in and out of style depending on investors' sentiments at the time. Few stocks embody this back-and-forth better than General Motors (GM), the automaker whose shares were effectively unloved from 2014 to this August, when the stock suddenly broke out. "Like wide ties, General Motors was out of style for years until very recently, the skinny tie reigned supreme but in 2017 the wide tie has made a comeback and so has the stock of GM," the " Mad Money " host said. With shares up over 25 percent since the end of August, General Motors, once a low-growth, bond-like stock, has become "beloved" by the Wall Street analyst community, Cramer said. In the last three weeks, analysts from Deutsche Bank, Bank of America-Merrill Lynch and Barclays peppered General Motors with upgrades and the stock caught a wave of price target raises. One Citigroup analyst was so bullish on the $45 stock that he came out with a possible $134 price target. "That's the kind of coverage you might expect for a fast-growing, cloud-based software stock, not a major American automaker," Cramer said. Cramer found several possible reasons for General Motors' rally. Its shares caught fire right when Hurricane Harvey hit Texas and potentially destroyed half a million cars. Given that many thought the auto industry had peaked before Harvey hit, Cramer saw the rise in General Motors and other auto stocks as a sign that the "peak auto" thesis would be put on hold. Plus, General Motors' monthly U.S. sales have been improving, according to the company's latest earnings report. But a one-off hurricane and an otherwise tepid earnings report hardly explained analysts' infatuation with the stock, Cramer said. The analysts who recently upgraded General Motors cited the company's autonomous driving platform, which Deutsche Bank said would come to fruition much sooner than expected; Maven , its millennial-targeted car-sharing business; and the stock's low valuation. Story continues Other potential drivers include General Motors' $2.3 billion sale of its European business as part of a larger restructuring and the company's initiative to roll out 20 new electric vehicles by 2023. "Really, though, none of this explains why GM's stock has gone from zero to hero in a matter of just months," Cramer said. "Everything I've just mentioned certainly helps, it's a nice background, but none of it gets at the real issue here. The real reason, I think, for the sudden love [is] you're witnessing a re-rating of GM's shares by the analysts and then a total change in the investor base." Until recently, many investors saw General Motors' $30-something stock as a value trap, leaving only deep value investors and income-seekers as most of its shareholders. But even though its new electric vehicle, autonomous driving and ride-sharing initiatives have been underway for years, General Motors has suddenly gotten credit for them all at once. As a result, the stock has surged higher and fallen back into favor with growth investors, Cramer said. "You get a couple pieces of good news and the whole tone changes," the "Mad Money" host said. "Growth investors start gravitating back to the stock as a poor man's Tesla (TSLA) with a better balance sheet and a ridiculously low valuation. I think GM's shift from value to growth has only just gotten started, and ... any dip will now be officially used as an opportunity to buy, not sell, the stock of the once hated and derided General Motors." WATCH: Cramer explains the newfound love for General Motors Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) should probably be worth way more than its market value, CNBC's Jim Cramer said Monday. "When I look at Netflix and I look at their scalable model, obviously people continue to think, 'How could this company only be valued at $80 billion if it's going to be your worldwide cord cutting play?'" Cramer said on " Squawk on the Street ." Netflix is scheduled to report third-quarter earnings after Monday's close. The video streaming giant's shares were up midmorning Monday and earlier in the session hit a record high. Analysts at Goldman Sachs predicted the company will post subscriber gains above expectations . Cramer said Netflix must show its investors acceleration in both domestic and international subscribers."And they may actually be able to do it because you remember they put through a price increase," the host of CNBC's "Mad Money" said. The company said earlier this month that it was raising the monthly price of some of its streaming plans.Cramer also said there's "very little skepticism" about Netflix's latest quarter. "Which leads me to believe that it'll either be up really big tonight or it'll be down a little bit and be up really big tomorrow," Cramer said. CNBC's Fred Imbert contributed to this report. Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) should probably be worth way more than its market value, CNBC's Jim Cramer said Monday. "When I look at Netflix and I look at their scalable model, obviously people continue to think, 'How could this company only be valued at $80 billion if it's going to be your worldwide cord cutting play?'" Cramer said on " Squawk on the Street ." Netflix is scheduled to report third-quarter earnings after Monday's close. The video streaming giant's shares were up midmorning Monday and earlier in the session hit a record high. Analysts at Goldman Sachs predicted the company will post subscriber gains above expectations . Cramer said Netflix must show its investors acceleration in both domestic and international subscribers. "And they may actually be able to do it because you remember they put through a price increase," the host of CNBC's "Mad Money" said. The company said earlier this month that it was raising the monthly price of some of its streaming plans. Cramer also said there's "very little skepticism" about Netflix's latest quarter. "Which leads me to believe that it'll either be up really big tonight or it'll be down a little bit and be up really big tomorrow," Cramer said. CNBC's Fred Imbert contributed to this report. More From CNBC A twin-engined commercial prop aircraft has struck a drone for the first time in Canada, says Minister of Transport Marc Garneau. The Skyjet Beech King Air 100 was on approach to Jean Lesage International Airport in Quebec City when it hit an unknown type of UAV. Garneau said that the drone was flying at around 1,500 feet, three miles from the airport -- 500 feet above the legal limit. The plane landed safely and sustained only minor damage, but "it could have been a lot more serious," he told the CBC. Any aircraft in an ATC (air traffic control) area around airports must have clearance to be there, and drones aren't permitted above 90 meters (about 300 feet) in Canada, under penalty of a $3,000 fine. "It's important to note that aircraft are particularly vulnerable when on final approach coming in," said Garneau, a three-time space shuttle astronaut. "The pilot is concentrating on landing properly." Governments around the world have struggled to balance passenger safety with the commercial needs of drone pilots. The US Federal Aeronautics Administration (FAA) recently released its own rules that require daylight or dusk operation within the pilot's line of sight. Commercial drone pilots must be at least 16 years old and need to pass an Aeronautical Knowledge Test before they can get their remote pilot certificate. Heights are limited to 400 feet, but the FAA has issued numerous waivers for that rule. In Canada, the rules implemented in March of this year are even more strict -- drones must keep about 5.6 miles away from any airport or body of water where aircraft take off. Anyone found to have endangered an aircraft could be subject to a $25,000 fine. "When it comes to safety, I don't think anything is overkill," said Garneau at the time. Google first added the moon and Mars to Google Maps back in 2014 to commemorate the Curiosity rover's second year exploring the red planet. Sure, you couldn't zoom down to Street View level, but it's the closest many of us will get to the celestial bodies. If that wasn't enough extraterrestrial fun, Google has answered your prayers: Mercury, Venus, Pluto and ten moons from other planets have been included in the roster. Notably missing are the gas giants. Instead, users can venture around several moons from Jupiter and Saturn, including Enceladus where the recently-deceased probe Cassini discovered evidence of a global ocean. After you've ventured out to the edge of our solar system viewing the non-planet Pluto, make sure to take a walkthrough of the ISS on the way back, which Google Maps added in July. flags - AFP Bombardiers Belfast operations could come under further pressure with the company thought to be considering selling aircraft lines as it reels from huge tariffs on its new small jet airliners imposed by US authorities. The company is mulling options including disposals and seeking fresh funding through tie-ups with other plane-makers, according to reports. Canada-based Bombardier has been hit with a series of trade tariffs in the US totalling 300pc on the sale of its C Series airliners to US carrier Delta. The tariffs follow complaints from Boeing that Bombardier dumped the aircraft at absurdly low prices to secure the sale of up to 125 jets. Bombarder faces tariffs of 300pc in the US on sales of its C Series airliner The duties come despite protests from the British Government. Fears are now growing over the future of Bombardiers 5,000 staff in Belfast. About 25pc of them are involved in the C Series aircraft, a level expected to rise to 60pc in four years time, and the company has called the success of the airliner critical to the future of its operations there. Bombardier is reported to be considering options including a sale of its Q400 turboprop and CRJ jet regional airliners. Workers in Belfast are heavily involved in the design and manufacturing of critical components of both aircraft. A sale or tie-up could result in work being moved from Northern Ireland. The tariffs have put huge pressure on Bombardier, and both the UK and Canadian governments are understood to be considering hitting back at Boeing by withholding defence work. Large parts of Bombardier's Q400 regional airliner are manufactured in Northern Ireland Bombardier boss Alain Bellemare is trying to get the business back on a sound financial footing after the C Series delayed entry into service. The company has taken $1.3bn of funding injections from the Canadian and Quebec governments and last October Mr Bellemare launched a second round of job cuts in a year, announcing plans to shed 7,500 staff - 10pc of the global workforce. The company, which derives almost 60pc of its revenue from aircraft, recently missed out on a deal to combine its rail operations with Siemens, which opted for a tie-up with Alstom. Story continues Bombardier - which makes Tube trains at its Derby plant - missed out on a tie-up with Siemens Credit: Bloomberg Companies have to consider things like selling aircraft lines when they are desperate, said aerospace analyst Howard Wheeldon. They need the money to put into new aircraft - they just cant stand still. He added that the Q400 was selling well and had a good future, but the CRJ was no longer a cutting edge aircraft in an intensely competitive market. Airbus has previously held talks with Bombardier about a tie-up and some think the pan-European plane-maker could again be in the frame as a possible partner. One industry source speculated that Bombardier could be looking to Chinas nascent aerospace industry and Beijing-backed companies such as Comac for a deal - and the threat of this could be a factor driving Boeings complaints. Boeing has a clear case for trade dumping but it could also want to kill off Bombardier as a threat before it does a deal with the Chinese, the source said. Key dates | Bombardier tariff dispute A Bombardier spokesman said: We do not comment on market rumour or speculation. The dispute between Boeing and Bombardier is certain to feature in an inquiry on UK-US trade relations launched by MPs on the International Trade Committee launched today. The committee is examining the opportunities and challenges in hammering out a free trade deal between Britain and the US and how trade can be increased. MPs are calling for evidence on how a UK-US trade deal could work Credit: AFP It is calling for evidence on what the UKs priorities should be in negotiating an agreement, the impact on specific sectors of the UK economy, how trade should be regulated and how markets could be opened up. The Government continues to envisage a trade deal with the US as the moment when so-called Global Britain arrives on the world stage, said MP Angus MacNeil, who chairs the committee. The imposition by the US of punitive tariffs on Canadian aerospace company Bombardier could badly affect jobs in Northern Ireland. Now we know - if we ever doubted it - that the US will be a tough test for the UKs fledgling trade negotiations team. By PTI: Islamabad, Oct 17 (PTI) An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan today sentenced a woman to death for the "brutal and gruesome" murder of her husband by throwing acid on him. The Multan court sentenced Yasmeen to death on two counts while also handing her a life imprisonment sentence after finding her guilty of murdering her husband Muhammad Imran Ashraf. advertisement Judge Malik Khalid Mehmood, in his verdict, said Yasmeen had been found guilty of "the brutal and gruesome murder of her husband". "The convict sprinkled acid on Muhammad Irfan Ashraf, entailing his death," Dawn News reported, quoting the verdict. A first information report had been registered against Yasmeen at Ludden Vehari Police Station in Multan on June 23, it said. Yasmeen was sentenced to death under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 and the Pakistan Penal Code. She has also been made liable to pay a fine of Rs 20,000, the report said. Police have registered a case against a woman who threw acid on his husband for contracting a second marriage. Earlier, media reports said Yasmeen was upset over her husbands second marriage and had thrown a bucket of acid on him while he was asleep. Ashraf, who sustained 35 per cent burns on his body, was immediately shifted to the District Headquarters hospital, from where he was shifted to Nishtar Hospital in Multan. Pakistan lifted its moratorium on the death penalty in 2015. Since then, a total of 465 prisoners have been executed, according to a report by Justice Project Pakistan released in July. PTI MRJ AKJ MRJ --- ENDS --- Harvey Weinsteins daughters used to attend the same all-girls school as my own. The Hollywood producer never hit on us moms like he did so many actresses in his industry. Maybe we didnt have stars in our eyes. Maybe we werent pretty enough. Maybe it was ironic respect for his daughters world. But I suspect the real reason is because he had no power over us. After all, we werent looking for a role in his movie, nor were we in the same business as him. And on parent-teacher night, he was just another dad huddled in a too-small classroom desk, watching the clock stand still. But what about the places some of those mothers work where men do have power over them? Do they silently work alongside Weinstein behavior, or do they address it more directly than many actresses have? The hundreds of thousands of #metoo posts on social mediato identify as a victim of sexual harassment or assaultunderscores how pervasive this behavior is. Yet most women tend to keep these stories to themselves. Its not fun to rat out a badly behaving man, and women often feel shame about being caught in an awkward situation. And, of course, reporting an incident may have career ramifications. But this thinking has allowed the Weinsteins of the world to thrive. And that is what has to change. I recently interviewed several career women for a screenplay I was working on, all with something theyve carried in their hearts. One woman negotiated her bonus while her boss looked her directly in the eye and touched himself. A young banker proudly finished her first deal deck and showed it to the lead banker, who then playfully hugged her from behind, his hands firmly pushing up her breasts. A trader showed an intern how to redirect a conference camera to film oneselfand did she want to make a porno with him? Even more of these power plays come in subtler form. I worked with a woman who received a pair of diamond earrings from our married boss. They made her earlobes hang heavy with self-regret. As she described it, If I didnt take them, Ive insulted him. If I did take them, Id appear interested in something other than a platonic relationship. Now, 14 years later, she still wonders why she let herself get put in that position. Did you notice I wrote, she let herself? Because most women think that when a powerful man acts inappropriately, its somehow her own doing. What did these women do in these situations? Instead of speaking up, they thought of a smooth way to demurely decline without damaging their careers. But for all the declinations, there are women who roll with itwomen who put up with far more because they dont want to be trouble and want to keep their jobs. I spoke to a former law intern who was surprised to find a partners tongue down her throat. Years later, she recalls telling him that she liked him, but that she had a boyfriend, all while noting his wedding band. Women aim to keep the peace, to not be too much trouble, even after being made to feel stupid and powerless. We think men are admiring our skill set but instead find that they were never taking us seriously to begin with. A bright side of Weinsteins downfall is that Hollywood women carry a bigger microphone than women in other careers. Right now. theyre reciting lines theyve finally written for themselves. Many of their confessions begin with, Ive never told this to anyone. For all of us, thats a good place to start. After countless cover-ups for rainmakers and masters of the universe, extinguishing harassment may begin from the downfall of this one otherwise quiet father. Maureen Sherry is the author of Opening Belle. Yahoo News photo Illustration; photos: AP, Getty WASHINGTON How did he get away with it for so long? It is the vexing question at the heart of the Harvey Weinstein story. The answer is simple and depressing: Nearly half a century after the start of rape law reforms pushed by second wave feminists and 31 years after the Supreme Court ruled that sexual harassment was a form of workplace discrimination prohibited by the 1964 Civil Rights Act, the legal system continues to struggle to provide justice for women who have been raped or otherwise sexually assaulted, except in the most extreme circumstances. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit may have been inspired by the real-life New York City sex crimes unit, but the real-life odds that a woman who has been sexually assaulted will ever see the inside of a courtroom are low. On television, half the drama is accused criminals being held to account by prosecutors; in real life, most sex crimes never make it before a judge or jury, or even get to the point of an arrest. This fact complainants take on significant personal risks to their reputation and emotional well-being with only a small chance that their accused attacker will be prosecuted, let alone convicted is among the reasons many women do not report sexual assaults, including rape, to police. Only one woman is known to have lodged a formal criminal complaint against Weinstein before the recent revelations, just as one woman reported Bill Cosby to police. Both saw their cases dismissed by prosecutors as unwinnable. In this, their experience is the rule, not the exception. Not every city has published a comprehensive look at how cases are handled in their jurisdictions. But those that have paint a startling portrait of how sex crimes are handled. In Washington D.C., for example, only 10.3 percent of sex crime complaints received by police were prosecuted in 2015, and only 1.2 percent of the complaints led to guilty verdicts, according to a report prepared for the mayors office in 2016. There were 1,177 reports of adult sexual assault or crimes with a sexual element made to police but just 14 guilty verdicts. Story continues Another 4.4 percent of cases, 52 of the 1,177, were settled by plea bargains. Nearly half the reports were not even classified as crimes by police or forwarded to prosecutors. Of the remaining 671 cases, only 189 involved arrests, and just 124 of those saw prosecutors move the case forward post-arrest. In Virginia, only 37 percent of prosecuted sexual assault cases led to a conviction between 2005 and 2013 in the city of Newport News and Williamsburg-James City, and because such a small fraction of reported cases were prosecuted, only 4 to 5 percent of incidents reported in those years have so far resulted in a conviction, the Daily Press reported in May 2015. One reason Washington, D.C., has tracked these crimes closely is that the city was, until recently, doing even worse. In 2013, Human Rights Watch published a report alleging that a large number of sexual assault complaints made to police were never logged or investigated. The Metropolitan Police Department contested the findings. Other major cities have suffered similar scandals over the poor performance of their police departments and prosecutors in addressing sex crimes in recent years. In New Orleans, the citys inspector general released a report in 2014 concluding that only 14 percent of sex crime complaints sent to five special victims unit detectives were investigated. Of the 1,290 sex crime calls for service between 2011 and 2013, 65 percent were labeled as miscellaneous marking them as noncriminal incidents and no reports were taken. An initial investigative report was created for 35 percent of the calls. Of them, 271 cases were marked as crimes but not investigated past the initial report, and only 179 were further investigated. That finding came on the heels of a 2011 investigation of the New Orleans Police Department by the Justice Department that found it systematically misclassified large numbers of possible sexual assaults, resulting in a sweeping failure to properly investigate many potential cases of rape, attempted rape, and other sex crimes. Philadelphia police had come under fire for similar failures in the past, but by the 2010s had managed to reduce its unusually high percent of sex crime complaints judged unfounded and thus kept off the crime statistics books to a figure closer to the national average. In 2013, it was among cities praised by Human Rights Watch for a victim-centered approach as opposed to one that emphasizes quickly closing cases. A Baltimore Sun investigation in 2010 found major undercounting in that city too. The city has for the past four years recorded the highest percentage of rape cases that officers conclude are false or baseless of any city in the country, with more than 30 percent of the cases investigated by detectives each year deemed unfounded, the paper reported. Additionally, In four of 10 emergency calls that come to police for rapes, officers conclude that there is no need for a further review, so the case never makes it to detectives. A follow-up audit presented to the city council found that half the discarded cases were misclassified and should have been pursued by investigators. By 2016, the Sun reported, the number of unfounded cases had dropped dramatically, but that didnt always translate into them being investigated let alone prosecuted and across Maryland, the percent of cases deemed unfounded remained above the national average. Nationally, the fraction of rape cases cleared by police was 36.5 percent in 2016, according to the FBI. That doesnt mean the cases in question resulted in a conviction or guilty plea only that the police, in most instances, made an arrest and handed the case over to prosecutors. In Los Angeles, a 2012 Justice Department-funded study found a low prosecution rate and that the vast majority of allegations of rape reported to police did not end with the conviction of a defendant. We found that there is substantial attrition in sexual assault cases presented to the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles Sherriffs Department, the report concluded. Among cases reported to the LAPD, only one in nine was cleared by arrest, fewer than one in ten resulted in the filing of charges, and only one in thirteen resulted in a conviction. When it comes to sexual assault overall, the most reliable academic estimates of prosecution rates indicate that 14 percent to 18 percent of all reported sexual assaults get prosecuted, the 2016 research report for D.C. concluded after surveying the data. That includes everything from misdemeanor assaults to felony rapes. The most easily prosecuted cases, in D.C. and around the country, are stranger rapes involving weapons, injuries, and the rapid reporting of the assault to police. Cases of groping and non-penetrative sexual assault involving people who know each other especially when they are not reported immediately to police are less likely to be resolved by the legal system, except in the favor of the accused when police or prosecutors decline to act. In California, its sexual battery if its touching of the buttocks or sexual organs or breasts, Los Angeles lawyer Karl Gerber, an experienced sexual-harassment litigator, told New York magazines Vulture site, discussing the Weinstein cases. So that kind of stuff, somebody could be criminally prosecuted for. But its very, very rare that they go after these people criminally. Ive had a lot of oral copulation cases, rape cases. Ive never seen them get prosecuted. Ive represented a lot of women that have been raped and they dont even pursue that if its a workplace thing. In her experience with the office of Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance, Italian model Ambra Battilana Gutierrez met a justice system that rarely takes up complaints like the one she put forward in 2015 against Weinstein. Her experience in going to the police with a complaint that she was sexually assaulted and then having her case stall is more the rule than the exception. If we could have prosecuted Harvey Weinstein in 2015, we would have, said Karen Friedman Agnifilo, the chief assistant district attorney for Manhattan, in a statement. She blamed the New York Police Department for failing to involve the Sex Crimes Unit in setting up the meeting between Weinstein and the model, who was recording him, so that prosecutors could obtain what was necessary to capture in order to prove a misdemeanor sex crime. While the recording is horrifying to listen to, what emerged from the recording was insufficient to prove a crime under New York law, she said. Meanwhile, Gutierrezs name and face were splashed on the cover of the New York Post and her reputation dragged through the mud. Most rapes and sexual assaults against females were not reported to the police, concluded the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics in an analysis of the question. Thirty-six percent of rapes, 34 percent of attempted rapes, and 26 percent of sexual assaults were reported to police, 1992-2000. Those numbers have varied some over the years. The percentage of rape or sexual assault victimizations reported to police increased to a high of 59 percent in 2003 before declining to 32 percent in 2009 and 2010, according to a 2013 Bureau of Justice Statistics report. Overall, 36 percent of rape or sexual assault victimizations were reported to police between 2005 and 2010, and the percentage of reported incidents that were followed by an arrest decreased from 47 percent in 1994-98 to 31 percent in 2005-10. Fear of retaliation and lack of faith in the police were the top two reasons women gave for not reporting their assaults, according to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, a prominent anti-sexual violence advocacy organization. Its no wonder that alternative and effectively private justice systems are proliferating. One well-known and much discussed private justice system involves universities, which, following Obama administration guidelines, controversially began to adjudicate cases involving students using a different standard of proof the preponderance of the evidence rather than following the practice of the legal system, which requires finding guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The Trump Education Department has rescinded the Obama rule and offered colleges the option of using the more stringent standard of clear and convincing evidence. Another is the elaborate system of payoffs and nondisclosure agreements that Weinstein entered into to keep accusations out of the public eye. Actress Rose McGowan in 1997 entered into a $100,000 settlement with Weinstein after an incident in a hotel room in Sundance when she was 23 years old. This week, she broke whatever nondisclosure agreement she may have signed and openly accused Weinstein of rape on Twitter. She is one of at least four women to accuse him of rape in the past week, as the number accusing him of all types of sexual assaults has grown by the day. Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr. Weinstein, a spokesperson for Weinstein said. As the number of women telling stories about Weinstein has mushroomed, the court of public opinion has turned decisively against him. He was fired from the company he built and helmed, and expelled from the Oscar-selecting Motion Picture Academy. As one-time collaborators and allies flee from any project hes associated with, the future existence of the Weinstein Company itself looks uncertain. At the same time, its early days of the scandal, and many men who have been accused of sexual assaults or improprieties with underlings in recent decades have been able to make comebacks or gone on to success in new arenas after disappearing from the public eye for a period. Sen. Bob Packwood was drummed out of office in 1995, more than two years after 24 women accused him of making unwanted advances or other sexual misconduct; Politico reported he found redemption and success as a Washington lobbyist. Arnold Schwarzenegger was elected governor of California despite a 2003 Los Angeles Times report that he groped at least six women. Clarence Thomas was confirmed as justice of the United States Supreme Court in 1991 after allegations he sexually harassed Anita Hill, covered at the time as a he said, she said story. Bill Clinton was able to rally Democrats in the 1998 midterm elections after his affair with former White House intern Monica Lewinsky became public, and amid a sexual harassment suit from Paula Jones that was a major news story during the election year. He eventually settled the case for $850,000, and in 2014 ranked as the most admired president of the past 25 years. Donald Trump was elected president of the United States after videotape surfaced showing him boasting about grabbing women by the p****, along with accusations of inappropriate sexual contact by more than a dozen women speaking on the record. Sen. Bob Packwood, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Clarence Thomas. (Photos: Getty Images) Former top Hillary Clinton aide Philippe Reines told Yahoo News that the Clinton campaign had considered running ads against Trumps Access Hollywood comments, but found they didnt move the needle. The campaign tested an Access Hollywood ad, like, a few weeks after [the story broke], and they focus-grouped it and most of the room didnt know what it was referring to, he said in September. Now that could have been a function of the ad being too subtle. But it was probably subtle because you didnt think you had to be in your face with something like that. It was a warning sign. There is a lot of talk among Democrats these days about the normalization of the abnormal or abhorrent under President Trump, but when it comes to allegations of sexual assault, the norms deeply embedded in the legal system and the culture long predate the present moment. And even men who are drummed out of public life and find their reputations in tatters on because of the breadth and extent of charges publicly made against them, like Cosby, they can nonetheless successfully fight it out in the formal legal system. When he was brought before a jury on an accusation of aggravated indecent assault in 2017, Cosbys case ended not with a guilty verdict but with a jury so deadlocked the judge had to declare a mistrial. The accuser in the case, Andrea Constant, had initially filed a police complaint against Cosby in 2005, but her case was one of many prosecutors did not go forward with that year. There was insufficient, admissible, and reliable evidence upon which to base a conviction beyond a reasonable doubt. Thats prosecutors speak for I think he did it but theres just not enough here to prosecute, Bruce Castor, a former district attorney in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, said in 2014, explaining his decision to not pursue a case against Cosby on charges of drugging and sexually assaulting Constant a decade ago. A new trial date has yet to be set. Police in New York and London say they are reviewing their case files for additional reports about Weinstein, and the NYPD is reportedly looking into a just-filed complaint from a former actress and college student that Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him in 2004. But given how few sexual assault cases ever lead to convictions not to mention Weinsteins formidable resources, likely top-notch legal team and the length of time that has elapsed since the incidents the American criminal justice system is likely to be the least of Weinsteins problems in the months ahead. Read more from Yahoo News: Christian Meunier, former Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing and Operations, Nissan North America, and Chairman, Nissan Canada, Inc., has been appointed to the new position of Global Division Vice President, Global Marketing and Sales Operations, INFINITI Motor Company.Click here for high-resolution version HONG KONG, CHINA--(Marketwired - October 16, 2017) - Christian Meunier, currently Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing and Operations, Nissan North America, and Chairman, Nissan Canada, Inc., is appointed to the new position of Global Division Vice President, Global Marketing and Sales Operations, INFINITI Motor Company. In this new role, Meunier will be responsible for all marketing and sales operations for INFINITI globally. Meunier will report directly to Roland Krueger, Chairman and Global President of INFINITI, and Senior Vice President of Nissan Motor Corporation. Meunier will be based in Franklin, Tenn., and will spend time in INFINITI's global headquarters in Hong Kong to manage and guide the global sales and marketing operations. "Christian brings a wealth of global experience and knows the premium automotive sector very well," said Krueger. "In this newly created role and with his leadership, we are setting INFINITI up for future continued success. All INFINITI sales regions will report to Christian and I am looking forward to continued growth of our brand." INFINITI just posted its 17th consecutive monthly global sales record, an 11% increase from January to September 2017, compared to last year. Meunier began his career at Nissan Group in 2002 as general manager, Market Management and Sales Operations for Nissan Europe. He then held a variety of positions, including general manager, Product Marketing and Vice President, Sales Operations. Meunier became vice president, Marketing for Nissan North America in 2007. In 2010, Meunier became president of Nissan Brazil, where he led a significant turnaround of the company, and Nissan became Brazil's fastest growing automotive brand for three consecutive years. In 2013, Meunier was named president of Nissan Canada, making again Nissan the fastest growing automotive brand in Canada under his tenure. Meunier has a master's degree from EDHEC Business School in Lille, France. Story continues About INFINITI: INFINITI Motor Company Ltd. is headquartered in Hong Kong with representations in 50 markets around the world. The INFINITI brand was launched in 1989. Its range of premium automobiles is currently built in manufacturing facilities in Japan, the United States, United Kingdom and China. INFINITI design studios are located in Atsugi-Shi (near Yokohama), London, San Diego and Beijing. INFINITI is in the middle of a major product offensive. The brand has been widely acclaimed for its daring design and innovative driver-assistance technologies. From the 2016 season, INFINITI is a technical partner of the Renault Sport Formula One team, contributing its expertise in hybrid performance. More information about INFINITI and its industry-leading technologies can be found at www.infiniti.com. You can also follow INFINITI on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube. Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2017/10/16/11G146571/Images/Christian_Meunier-b2e7b32b6673baeaa0e3a713c881b12b.jpg An Iraqi army vehicle stands guard at the Bai Hassan oil field, west of Kirkuk, on October 17, 2017, one of a string retaken from the Kurds this month in a crippling blow to their finances (AFP Photo/AHMAD AL-RUBAYE) Bai Hassan (Iraq) (AFP) - Iraqi forces Wednesday appeared poised to take full control of the oil fields in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk, dashing Kurdish hopes of creating a viable independent state. Kurdish peshmerga forces withdrew without a fight after federal government troops and militia entered the city of Kirkuk and seized the provincial governor's office and key military bases in response to a Kurdish vote for independence last month. The oil fields taken Tuesday accounted for more than 400,000 of the 650,000 barrels per day that the autonomous Kurdish region used to export in defiance of Baghdad. Their loss deals a huge blow to its already dire finances and its dreams of economic self-sufficiency. On Tuesday morning, Iraqi forces took down the Kurdish flags that had flown over the pumping stations of the Bai Hassan and Havana oil fields and raised the national flag, an AFP photographer said. Kurdish technicians had halted production and fled on Monday evening as pro-government forces approached. The last Kirkuk oil field still in Kurdish hands is the smaller Khurmala field, south of Arbil, which produces around 10,000 barrels per day. Oil exports through Turkey -- both from Kirkuk and from within the Kurdish autonomous region -- make up a major portion of the autonomous Kurdish government's revenues. Baghdad views them as a breach of the constitution, under which they are a federal responsibility. - 'End of the dream' - The autonomous Kurdish region is suffering a crushing economic crisis after Baghdad severed its air links with the outside world and neighbouring Iran closed its border to petrochemical exports. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said Tuesday the independence poll was now "a thing of the past". "Central authority must be imposed everywhere in Iraq," he told a press conference. "I want to be fair with all citizens." Iraqi President Fuad Masum blamed the independence poll for triggering Baghdad's operation. Story continues "Holding a referendum on the Kurdistan region's independence from Iraq stirred grave disagreements between the central government and the government of Kurdistan," Masum, himself Kurdish, said in a televised address Tuesday. That "led to federal security forces retaking direct control of Kirkuk," he said. Global crude prices rose further early Wednesday on investor fears of output disruptions. French geographer and Kurdistan specialist Cyril Roussel said the loss of the oil fields had slashed Kurdish finances by half. "It spells the end of Kurdistan's economic self-sufficiency and of the dream of independence," he said. He said that without the revenues from Kirkuk oil, the autonomous region would never have embarked on the September 25 poll in which Kurds overwhelmingly backed independence. "It was only after the annexation of the two Kirkuk fields in July 2014 that Kurdish president Massud Barzani started to talk of independence. Before, he spoke only of autonomy," Roussel said. Kirkuk lies outside the autonomous region but is one of a string of historically Kurdish-majority territories that the Kurds aim to control, against the wishes of Baghdad. Kurdish forces seized many such areas in 2014 when Iraqi army units disintegrated in the face of the jihadists' lightning advance. - Yazidi massacre town falls - But since entering Kirkuk city on Monday, government forces have advanced on those areas one by one. Market trader Hassan Mohammed, from Sulaimaniyah, said he had "never felt so full of despair". "The history of the Kurds in Iraq is full of setbacks, Kirkuk is a new one, a huge one," the 52-year-old said. On Tuesday, troops and militia entered the Yazidi Kurdish town of Sinjar after peshmerga forces withdrew without a fight, the Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force said. Sinjar was the site of one of the Islamic State group's worst atrocities in August 2014, when it killed thousands of Yazidi men and abducted thousands of women and girls as sex slaves, helping trigger the US intervention against the jihadists. Abadi on Tuesday evening said Iraqi troops had retaken control of a major dam north of the second city Mosul, and of the Makhmur area, which the Kurds claim as part of their autonomous region. - 'Betrayal' - Kurdish forces captured Sinjar from IS in 2015 and the town's loss is a symbolic blow for Barzani. Ten peshmerga fighters were killed as they exchanged artillery fire with the army before it entered Kirkuk on Monday, but otherwise the Iraqi advance has been largely bloodless. That was helped by a sharp division within Kurdish ranks over last month's independence poll. Peshmerga forces loyal to the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, historic rival of Barzani's Kurdistan Democratic Party, withdrew under an agreement with Baghdad, officials said. The KDP accused the PUK of "betrayal". But KDP forces also withdrew without a fight, abandoning Sinjar and the two Kirkuk oil fields. On Tuesday, as it became clear that the feared bloodshed was not going to materialise, hundreds of families from among the tens of thousands of Kurdish residents who had fled Kirkuk city began to return to their homes, security sources said. Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese journalist who had investigated the Panama Papers case, was assassinated after a bomb blew up her car yesterday. By India Today Web Desk: In other news, completely unrelated to that of Gauri Lankesh's murder, a 53-year-old investigative journalist in Malta was killed in a car bomb blast. Daphne Caruana Galizia, described as one of Malta's best-known investigative journalist, was killed after a powerful bomb blew up her car yesterday. Reports have it Galizia had just left her house and was on a road in northern Malta when the bomb detonated, sending her car flying into an adjacent field. advertisement Galizia was known for running an independent blog named Running Commentary in which she wrote about cases of alleged high-level corruption targeting politicians. "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate," she wrote in a blog published just half an hour before the blast. Remains of Daphne Caruana Galizia's car after the explotion. Source: Reuters Around 3,000 people held a silent, candle-lit vigil on today in Sliema in Galizia's honour. Hashtag 'Je Suis Daphne' has also been circulating on social media. DESCRIBED AS 'ONE-WOMAN WIKILEAKS' Galizia had accused Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat of "wrong-doings" earlier this year. Upon her death, Muscat has released a statement denouncing her killing as a "barbaric attack on press freedom". "Everyone knows Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way. The only remedy for anyone who felt slandered was through the courts," he said in a statement. "I will not rest until I see justice done in this case," he said. Muscat added that the US FBI has agreed to help local police to investigate Galizia's killing. Remains of Daphne Caruana Galizia's car after the explotion. Source: Reuters Earlier this year, Muscat had sued Galizia after she wrote blogs saying his wife was the beneficial owner of a company in Panama, and that large sums of money had been moved between the company and bank accounts in Azerbaijan. Both Muscat and his wife denied the accusations. Galizia was known to have taken aim at politicians and senior officials from across Malta, seeing the island as a hotbed of corruption. "Malta's public life is afflicted with dangerously unstable men with no principles or scruples," she wrote last year. GALIZIA AND PANAMA PAPERS Malta opposition leader Adrian Delia said Galizia was the victim of a "political murder". "Caruana Galizia revealed the Panama Papers and was the government's strongest critic," Delia said, "We will not accept an investigation by the Commissioner of Police, the Army commander or the duty magistrate, all of whom were at the heart of criticism by Caruana Galizia." WikiLeaks Founder Julian Assange has offered a 20,000 euro (Rs 15,28,120) reward for information leading to the conviction of Galizia's killers. advertisement Galizia's son, Matthew Caruana Galizia, is a journalist and programmer with the ICIJ. Her family has filed a court application demanding a change of inquiring magistrate. A letter to Daphne Caruana Galizia seen on the Love monument during a silent candlelight vigil to protest against her murder. Source: Reuters --- ENDS --- Heres a look at some of the stocks the Yahoo Finance team will be watching for you today. Health related stocks are helping drive the Dow Industrials above the 23,000 mark for the first time. Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) shares rose Tuesday morning. The consumer products giant posted better- than-expected results for both its top and bottom lines. J&J credits its pharmaceutical business and its recent acquisition of of Swiss biotech firm Actelion for the beat. However, analysts heard very little about hurricane damage to the companys seven plants in Puerto Rico during the earnings call. UnitedHealth (UNH) was also up sharply in early trading. The Dow component raised its outlook after revenue and profits beat expectations. The nations largest health insurer cited growth from its Optum segment, which provides tech facing health services, for the strong results. Some M&A action in the pharma space. Impax Labs (IPXL) shares tanked after the company said its merging with Amneal Pharmaceuticals to create the fifth-largest generic drug company in U.S. Analysts expect the all-stock transaction to reduce costs significantly in the first year and strengthen its ability to negotiate with wholesalers and retailers. And shares of Dow component Boeing (BA) lost altitude today. Rival Airbus (AIR.PA) plans to take a major stake in Bombardiers (BBDb.TO) C-Series jet business. The deal would challenge the massive tariff pushed by Boeing and the U.S. Last month, the Commerce Department ruled in favor of Boeing after it claimed Bombardier used predatory pricing to sell its C-Series jets to Delta. A final ruling is expected next year. By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON, Oct 16 (Reuters) - U.S. Senator Bob Corker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, urged President Donald Trump's administration on Monday to work closely with European allies as it develops its new Iran policy. "This is something that can only work if the administration exercises tremendous diplomacy with our European allies," Corker told reporters as the Senate returned to the Capitol for the first time since Trump announced his Iran policy. Trump defied both allies and adversaries on Friday by refusing to certify that Iran is complying with an international agreement on its nuclear program, and threatened that he might ultimately terminate the accord. Corker is leading an effort in Congress to write legislation setting new conditions for the U.S. role in the pact, such as automatically reimposing sanctions if Iran is deemed to be within one year of developing a nuclear weapon. Details have not been finalized, but the plan's outline raised concerns that it might cause Washington - not Tehran - to violate the deal reached with Britain, France, Germany, Russia, China, Iran and the European Union. Corker said Democratic senators told him that Washington must work with Europe. Trump's fellow Republicans control the Senate and House of Representatives, but their Senate majority is so narrow that most legislation needs Democratic votes to pass. European Union foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg on Monday reaffirmed their support for the nuclear pact and said failure to uphold it could have serious consequences for regional peace, and undermine efforts to check North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Corker said he had tried to convince European officials that the news on Iran was not all bad. "I ... shared with them that, look, if I were them, I'd look at this as 'the glass is half full,' he didn't withdraw from the JCPOA (the nuclear deal), and that's step one," Corker said. Story continues He described efforts under way in Washington as a chance to address "deficiencies" in the nuclear pact, in which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief. Every Republican in Congress, as well as some Democrats, opposed the accord when it was reached by former Democratic Barack Obama's administration in 2015. Corker and Republican Senator Tom Cotton, who worked with him on the legislation, met later on Monday on Iran with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by James Dalgleish) Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. The revelation this week that a serious security flaw could affect WiFi networks in homes and businesses highlights how tough it can be for consumers to keep vital technology updated with secure software. Millions of households rely on wireless routers, laptops, and smartphones for their day-to-day lives. It's relatively routine to update a laptopmany devices are updated automatically. But other devices go years without getting updated by their owners, slowly gathering dust while missing advances in security. The new WiFi vulnerability was dubbed Krack (for Key Reinstallation Attack) by its discoverers, a pair of researchers at a Belgian university. It could allow attackers to access private data flowing through an encrypted WiFi network. The data could include usernames, passwords, credit card details, emails, and more. Theres a vulnerability in all current implementations of WiFithe way WiFi works between devices and wireless access points, says Bob Rudis, chief data scientist at Rapid7, a cybersecurity firm that has already written extensively about Krack. To be clear, these are researchers, not criminals, and there's no evidence that anyone's WiFi network was actually infiltrated. But the list of affected products could be a long one: The flaw affects a WiFi encryption protocol known as WPA2 that has been standard since the mid-2000s, leaving consumers on the hook to seek out and install software updates. My advice to home users and small-business owners would be not to panic too much for now, says Graham Sutherland, an independent security researcher. The Krack paper has only been out for a couple of days and [since researchers quietly informed tech companies about the problem ahead of time] companies with affected devices have had a while to start working on fixes. But that doesn't mean all of those updates will get to consumers. When it comes to routers, in particular, many people may need to delve into unfamiliar settings panels searching for an elusive update button. Story continues PCs and Laptops Both Apple and Microsoft say they have developed patches that fix the vulnerability in macOS and Windows 10. Microsoft says it rolled out the patch earlier in October, but didn't announce the fix until the Belgian researchers were ready to go public. Apple confirmed to Consumer Reports that the patch will be widely released within the next few weeks. A currently available beta version of macOS already contains the patch but is only intended for advanced users who are comfortable using prerelease software. Security experts say that consumers shouldn't worry about waiting for the official macOS release. Any would-be attacker needs to be within range of their victims wireless routerKrack cannot be initiated over the internet. Unless a sophisticated hacker has a motivation to specifically target your home or business, you're probably not in immediate danger of having your data stolen. Wireless Routers Wireless routers are vulnerable to Krackthat's not surprising since they create your WiFi network. How you update your router software to fix the problem depends on how and when you obtained the device. Many consumers rent a router from their broadband provider. Consumer Reports has pointed out the advantages in buying your own routerbut this is one case where using the company's router makes things easy. Internet service providers tend to automatically update network equipment, including wireless routers. Comcast, Verizon, Charter, and AT&T did not respond to Consumer Reportss request for a comment on Krack, but they maintain online help pages that detail how frequently they update the routers in people's homes. Its a slightly different story when consumers have bought their own wireless routers. The Wi-Fi Alliance, the industry consortium that sets and maintains the technical standards of WiFi, tells Consumer Reports that consumers should manually check to ensure that their routers are fully updated, which can typically be viewed on the routers settings panel. Here are links to detailed instructions on how to initiate a manual update for routers made by Asus, D-Link, Linksys, and Netgear. Certain newer routers, including several made by Belkin as well as the startup Eero, automatically push updates without requiring the user to do anything. If you know for a fact that you have a newer router that updates automatically then great, that's good, says Richard Fisco, who heads up router testing at Consumer Reports. But if you have a router thats older than two years old, you probably should check it and see if theres a way to manually update it. Smartphones Smartphones are as vulnerable to the Krack flaw as routers or laptops. Both Apple and Google have developed patches that fix the vulnerability in iOS and Android. An update for iOS thats due for wide release within the next few weeks will have the patch, Apple confirmed. There's a beta version of iOS with the patch, aimed at advanced users willing to use pre-release software. However, other users probably can wait without incurring much risk. The situation with Android is slightly more complicated. Google says its next Android monthly security update, due on Nov. 6, will contain a patch for the vulnerability. But exactly when this security update reaches the average Android smartphone is another matter entirely: If you own one of Googles own smartphones, including the Pixel and most recent Nexus models, you'll get the update right away. But smartphones made by other manufacturers dont typically receive security updates as soon as theyre released. Major Android smartphone makers including Samsung, LG, and HTC did not respond to Consumer Reports request for comment on when their customers can expect to see this security update. More from Consumer Reports: Top pick tires for 2016 Best used cars for $25,000 and less 7 best mattresses for couples Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright 2017, Consumer Reports, Inc. FILE PHOTO: The logo and trading symbol of financial services company State Street are displayed on a screen on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, U.S., March 8, 2017. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid (Reuters) By Ross Kerber BOSTON (Reuters) - State Street Corp has drawn praise for its efforts to put more women on corporate boards, notably the "Fearless Girl" statue it placed near Wall Street. But new records show the company did not throw its full weigh behind boardroom diversity initiatives this year - complicating activists' plans for 2018. Of eight shareholder resolutions on board diversity 2017 at Russell 3000 companies, funds run by the Boston-based custody bank's asset-management arm backed one, opposed four and abstained on three others, according to a recent analysis for Reuters News by researcher Proxy Insight. State Street says it engages with companies in many ways and voted against directors when necessary. To be sure several of the measures received low support overall. But State Street's outspoken public stance on diversity has brought criticism from investor activists who had hoped for more backing from the company, whose $2.6 trillion under management gives it a powerful voice on corporate affairs. Among other influential asset managers, rivals BlackRock Inc and Vanguard Group backed five and six of the eight resolutions, respectively. "If State Street wants to fully implement its commitment to gender equity investing, it should look for more ways to use its shareholder voice for women," said Pat Tomaino, an associate director at Zevin Asset Management. For instance, State Street opposed a resolution from the Boston firm calling for Apple Inc to accelerate efforts to diversify its senior management and board. It received 4.9 percent support at Apple's meeting in February, under the 6 percent threshold needed to be refiled. Stymied, Zevin has submitted a different resolution for Apple's 2018 meeting to include diversity measures in setting executive pay. Apple has sought regulatory approval to omit the resolution. Apple spokespeople did not respond to questions. Story continues Separately, State Street abstained on a measure asking Discovery Communications to include qualified women and minority candidates in board searches, supported by 35 percent of votes cast. Laura Campos, director at resolution sponsor Nathan Cummings Foundation, said it may change the wording if it re-files the resolution for 2018. "To see they're abstaining is disappointing, especially given their push on gender diversity," Campos said of State Street. A Discovery spokesman declined to comment. LOOKING TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE U.S. corporate boards and executive suites remain overwhelmingly male and white, with 23 percent of Russell 3000 companies having no women directors, according to a 2016 study by Equilar. Advocates including State Street argue greater gender diversity would make boards more effective and improve performance. State Street leaders declined to discuss votes at specific companies. Representatives noted how including abstentions, State Street did not support management in half of the eight cases, and that its funds often voted against directors as well. Rakhi Kumar, a State Street executive overseeing stewardship efforts, said via e-mail that while proposals can help start conversations, "they do not always take into account progress already being made on a particular issue, and can also be too limited in scope, which can in turn limit their effectiveness." She also said that State Street can influence companies through means other than proxy votes, like talks. State Street drew notice in March when it placed a 50-inch (127 cm) bronze statue of a defiant girl with fists on hips opposite Wall Street's iconic "Charging Bull" statue, meant to highlight its boardroom activism. State Street later said it voted against directors at 400 companies with no female board members, and gave 42 others a pass based on their plans to bring in women. In a settlement made public earlier this month, State Street agreed to pay $5 million to resolve U.S. Labor Department allegations it underpaid female and black executives at its Boston headquarters. State Street denied discriminating and says it is committed to equal pay practices. Spokeswoman Julie Kane said the regulator's analysis was based on data at one State Street building from 2010 and 2011 and that the bank decided to bring the "matter to resolution and move forward." (Reporting by Ross Kerber; Editing by Nick Zieminski) North Korean race-goers who once risked three years hard labor for gambling are now able to bet on local horse races, as the one-party state searches for new ways to generate hard currency in the wake of tough international sanctions . In recent weeks, North Korea's access to foreign money has been significantly limited by a flurry of international sanctions over Pyongyang's missile and nuclear weapons programs . The North's state-run KCNA news agency said Friday that a series of races were due to take place at the Mirim Horse Racing Club near Pyongyang on Saturday. The venue is reportedly one of Kim Jong Un 's most prominent leisure developments. "Kim has been pushing for vanity projects for a theme park, sky resort and the horse riding club for the sake of propping up the people's wellbeing, but their real purpose was to earn foreign currency," Na Jeong-won, head of the North Korea Industry-Economy Research Institute in Seoul, told Reuters on Monday.White horsesPictures by KCNA showed hundreds of spectators in attendance over the weekend while visitors aged 12 and over were allowed to bet on jockeys in a raffle-based system, Reuters reported, citing Korean Central Television.The races featured mostly white-grey horses. In North Korea, white horses have traditionally been seen as a propaganda symbol closely linked to the ruling Kim family.A spate of international sanctions against North Korea has seen bans placed on crucial exports for Pyongyang including coal, seafood and textiles.Reuters contributed to this report. North Korean race-goers who once risked three years hard labor for gambling are now able to bet on local horse races, as the one-party state searches for new ways to generate hard currency in the wake of tough international sanctions . In recent weeks, North Korea's access to foreign money has been significantly limited by a flurry of international sanctions over Pyongyang's missile and nuclear weapons programs . The North's state-run KCNA news agency said Friday that a series of races were due to take place at the Mirim Horse Racing Club near Pyongyang on Saturday. The venue is reportedly one of Kim Jong Un 's most prominent leisure developments. "Kim has been pushing for vanity projects for a theme park, sky resort and the horse riding club for the sake of propping up the people's wellbeing, but their real purpose was to earn foreign currency," Na Jeong-won, head of the North Korea Industry-Economy Research Institute in Seoul, told Reuters on Monday. White horses Pictures by KCNA showed hundreds of spectators in attendance over the weekend while visitors aged 12 and over were allowed to bet on jockeys in a raffle-based system, Reuters reported, citing Korean Central Television. The races featured mostly white-grey horses. In North Korea, white horses have traditionally been seen as a propaganda symbol closely linked to the ruling Kim family. A spate of international sanctions against North Korea has seen bans placed on crucial exports for Pyongyang including coal, seafood and textiles. Reuters contributed to this report. More From CNBC By PTI: Ahmedabad, Oct 17 (PTI) Telecom engineer and entrepreneur Sam Pitroda today called for the need of "collective leadership" in a democracy, and said that an individual is not qualified for everything. "We need to talk about collective leadership. No person is qualified for anything. I am not qualified for everything, but as a group I am qualified. advertisement "I need my support system. So collective leadership is something we should always keep in mind," Pitroda said while addressing a group here today on the topic of technology and social change. Taking the example of Indias independence movement, Pitroda said personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad, Sarojini Naidu and others provided collective leadership to fight against the British rule. "But the world today looks at individuals. You cannot have it in democracy. If you talk about democracy, you need collective leadership. You cannot have one guy making decisions. No matter if it is God, even he is not qualified," said Pitroda, who had served as the advisor to the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Pitroda also talked about the need for a leader to listen to everyone to derive ideas and implement them. "You will have to listen to everybody. I cannot have good ideas all the time. What you experience I may not experience. So I will have to listen, learn, collaborate," he said. Talking to a gathering which consisted mainly of young audience, Pitroda emphasised on the need to embrace certain fundamentals of life. "You can read books, but you also need to learn some fundamentals of life. Some of the fundamentals for me come from Gandhiji. One--truth, and absolute truth. You have to constantly search for truth. Trust, simplicity, and unconditional love," he said. Pitroda said that the biggest thing that technology has brought about is social change. "For the first time in the history of human kind, we have eight billion people connected to each other. Anybody can talk to anybody anytime. "Smart phones provide you with the ability to connect and have all knowledge. It has the ability to democratise information and knowledge," he said. PTI KA PD RMT --- ENDS --- Owens-Illinois, Inc. OI is scheduled to report third-quarter 2017 results after the closing bell on Oct 24. In the last reported quarter, the companys adjusted earnings per share rose 15% year over year while revenues remained flat. Price inched up 1% on a global basis, which was offset by modestly lower sales volume and adverse currency translation. Last quarter, the companys earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 11.94%. Owens-Illinois surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing four quarters, generating an average positive surprise of 7.70%. Lets see how things are shaping up prior to this announcement. Earnings Whispers Our proven model does not conclusively show that Owens-Illinois is likely to beat estimates this quarter. This is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) for this to happen. This is not the case here, as you will see below: Zacks ESP: The Earnings ESP for Owens-Illinois is -3.40%. This is because the Most Accurate estimate of 71 cents is pegged lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 74 cents. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before theyre reported with our Earnings ESP Filter. Zacks Rank: Owens-Illinois currently has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) which combined with a negative earnings ESP makes a beat unlikely this quarter. As it is, we caution against stocks with a Zacks Rank #4 or 5 (Strong Sell) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions. Owens-Illinois, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise Owens-Illinois, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise | Owens-Illinois, Inc. Quote Factors to Consider The company projects adjusted earnings per share to lie between 70 cents and 75 cents in the quarter. The mid-point of the guidance range reflects a year-over-year growth of 6.6%. If delivered, this would mark the seventh consecutive quarter of year-on-year growth in earnings per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the third quarter is at 74 cents, near the upper end of management guidance, projecting year-over-year growth of 8.1%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is at $1.77 billion, reflecting 3.15% growth. The strength in the euro and Mexican peso during the quarter will contribute 1 cent to adjusted earnings per share. Enhanced volumes, improved price-cost spreads and ongoing benefits from total systems cost approach are likely to deliver margins of around 20% in Latin America. Combined with gains in North America and Asia Pacific, total segment operating profit is expected to increase double digits and margins are likely to expand by about 100 basis points year on year in the third quarter. However, corporate costs are anticipated to be modestly higher sequentially in the to-be-reported quarter. Higher projected taxes of around 25% will also impact earnings. Further, Owens-Illinoiss debt-to-capitalization ratio was a high 88% at the end of the second quarter. Increased interest expenses will continue to hurt margins. The company has advanced cash restructuring of roughly $20 million to second-half 2017. The accelerated restructuring is primarily related to the closure of the companys Netherlands factory. It had previously planned for the closure near 2017 end, with a large share of the cash payment occurring in early 2018. This will impact margins in the third quarter. Share Price Performance Story continues The companys share price has underperformed its industrys performance over a month. The industry gained 4.6%, while Owens-Illinoiss share price rose 4.3%. Stocks That Warrant a Look Here are a few industrial products stocks worth considering as they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter. Lakeland Industries, Inc. LAKE has an Earnings ESP of +13.5% and a Zacks Rank #1. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. The Earnings ESP for Altra Industrial Motion Corp. AIMC is +5.76%. It carries a Zacks Rank #2. Terex Corporations TEX Earnings ESP is +4.63% and it carries a Zacks Rank #2. Looking for Stocks with Skyrocketing Upside? Zacks has just released a Special Report on the booming investment opportunities of legal marijuana. Ignited by new referendums and legislation, this industry is expected to blast from an already robust $6.7 billion to $20.2 billion in 2021. Early investors stand to make a killing, but you have to be ready to act and know just where to look. See the pot trades we're targeting>> 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 Owens-Illinois, Inc. (OI) : Free Stock Analysis Report Terex Corporation (TEX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Altra Industrial Motion Corp. (AIMC) : Free Stock Analysis Report Lakeland Industries, Inc. (LAKE) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research By Heather Somerville SANTA ROSA, Calif. (Reuters) - Andrew Lopas' plans to bring his marijuana business out of the black market with a legal, profitable and organic pot farm went up in smoke in the wildfires that have scorched Santa Rosa, California. After four decades of growing pot illegally, the 54-year-old saw an opportunity last year to start a legitimate business serving the medical marijuana market. Last Sunday, as the wildfires, which have now killed at least 40 people, first erupted, Lopas' cannabis farm in Santa Rosa went up in flames, leaving behind the stumps of two chimneys, heaps of ash, charred marijuana plants and a despairing entrepreneur. [nL2N1MP07S] After moving into the farm last November, he had been only days away from his first harvest. Lost in the conflagration at Mystic Spring Farms were 2,500 pounds (1,100 kg) of cannabis worth an estimated $2 million, $10,000 in cash to pay the mortgage and workers, a farmhouse that dated back to the 18th century, trailers and farm vehicles, and 900 marijuana plants. "That was all our eggs in one basket," Lopas said. "We were devastated." California's newly legalized marijuana industry was hit hard by the deadliest blaze in state history. Fires consuming communities north of San Francisco have destroyed almost 30 pot farms in Sonoma, Mendocino and Napa counties and significantly damaged a similar number, according to the California Growers Association. Those are a fraction of the estimated 15,000 pot farms in the region. California is the source of most of the nation's illegal marijuana farming. Humboldt and Mendocino counties, in the cannabis-growing region known as the "Emerald Triangle", have led the state's production. FLEEING FROM FIRE California voters approved medical marijuana in 1996, despite a federal ban, and last year approved recreational use of the drug by adults. Since then, the state has been developing rules to allow recreational sales. Lopas said he and his girlfriend, Monika Meyers, were focusing on the medical marijuana market, taking a "wait and see" approach to the developing recreational market. Medical marijuana businesses in California are expected to operate as non-profit cooperatives, but beginning in January 2018 they can apply to run as for-profit companies, according to the California Franchise Tax Board. Lopas fears the fires have irrevocably destroyed many farmers in Sonoma County. He said marijuana's illegal status on a federal level means farmers cannot qualify for federal aid in disasters and most do not have crop insurance that would cover the fire losses as there are not adequate policies available. Lopas' first warning of the rapidly approaching fire was flickering lights in his greenhouse as he worked last Sunday evening. He smelled smoke, and when the wind picked up, he and Meyers fled, grabbing little more than some clothes and their two dogs. Lopas, who has grown marijuana since he was a teenager and sold it illegally much of his life, said he wanted to make his farm a shining example of regulatory compliance and environmentalism, spurning the pesticides that many illegal farms use to boost yield. "We were trying to bring the industry out of the dark," he said. Lopas has had trouble sleeping since the loss and worries how he will repay his investors. But he is not giving up. "We want to rebuild," he said. "This property is too special to me." (Reporting by Heather Somerville, additional reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis; Editing by Ben Klayman and Mary Milliken) Security researcher Mathy Vanhoef publicly disclosed a serious vulnerability in the WPA2 encryption protocol today. Most devices and routers currently rely on WPA2 to encrypt your WiFi traffic, so chances are youre affected. But first, lets clarify what an attacker can and cannot do using the KRACK vulnerability. The attacker can intercept some of the traffic between your device and your router. If traffic is encrypted properly using HTTPS, an attacker can't look at this traffic. Attackers cant obtain your Wi-Fi password using this vulnerability. They can just look at your unencrypted traffic if they know what they're doing. With some devices, attackers can also perform packet injection and do some nasty things. This vulnerability is like sharing the same WiFi network in a coffee shop or airport. The attacker needs to be in range of your WiFi network. They cant attack you from miles and miles away. The attacker could also take control of a zombie computer near you, but this is already a much more sophisticated attack. Thats why companies should release patches as soon as possible because chances are most attackers just learned about this vulnerability today. Theres at least a theoretical possibility that this vulnerability could be exploited by hackers to make it more scalable as an attack vector in future -- thinking of, for example, how worms have been developed and released that spread from one insecure IoT device to another to build a zombie botnet. But currently this is not the case. So heres what to do now that the WPA2 protocol is vulnerable Update all the wireless things you own Good news! Your devices can be updated to prevent the KRACK vulnerability. Updated devices and non-updated devices can co-exist on the same network as the fix is backward compatible. So you should update all your routers and Wi-Fi devices (laptops, phones, tablets) with the latest security patches. You can also consider turning on auto-updates for future vulnerabilities as this wont be the last one. Modern operating systems have become quite good at auto-updates. Some devices (ahem Android) dont receive a lot of updates and could continue to pose risks. Story continues The key point is that both clients and routers need to be fixed against KRACK so there are lots of potential attack vectors to consider. Look to your router Your routers firmware absolutely needs updating. If the router has been supplied by your ISP, ask the company when their branded kit will be patched. If they dont have an answer, keep asking. You can make sure your router is up-to-date by browsing the administration panel. Find the user guide for your ISP-branded router and follow the instructions to connect to the admin pages. If your ISP is not quickly putting out a firmware update to fix KRACK, it may be time to consider switching your ISP. A less drastic option would be to buy a WiFi access point from a responsible company that has already issued a patch. Plugging a WiFi access point into your ISP router and disabling WiFi on your ISP junk is a good alternative. Heres a list of some of the router makers that have already put out fixes (Ubiquiti, Microtik, Meraki, Aruba, FortiNet). Use Ethernet If your router doesnt yet have a fix, and you dont have a patched WiFi access point that could be used for wireless instead, you could Ethernet into your router and turn off its wireless function until its patched (assuming WiFi can be disabled on your router). Turn off WiFi on your device as well so that youre sure all traffic goes through that sweet Ethernet cable. If you still want to keep WiFi for some devices, consider switching to Ethernet for your essential devices. For instance, if you spend hours every day on a computer and use a ton of internet traffic from this computer, buy an Ethernet cable. Consider using cellular data on your phone Your phones and tablets dont have an Ethernet port. If you want to make sure nobody is watching your traffic, disable WiFi on your device and use cellular data instead. This isnt ideal if you live somewhere with a spotty network, pay extra for mobile data, or if you dont trust your telecom provider. Devices running Android 6.0 and later are more vulnerable than other devices. It is trivially easy to perform a key reinstallation attack because of a bad implementation of the handshake mechanism in the WiFi stack. So Android users do need to be more careful. What about Internet-of-Things devices? If you own a lot of IoT devices, consider which of those devices pose the most serious risk if unencrypted traffic is intercepted. Say, for example, you own a connected security camera that doesnt encrypt traffic when youre on the same WiFi network -- well, that could allow attackers to snoop on raw video footage inside your home. Erk! Take action accordingly -- e.g. by pulling the most risky devices off your network until their makers issue patches. And be sure to keep an eye on the kinds of devices your kids might be connecting to your home network. At the same time, if an attacker can intercept traffic between your smart lightbulbs and your router, its probably fine. What are they going to do with this information anyway? Its fair to say that Edward Snowden wouldnt want even info about how his lightbulbs are being turned on and off getting into the hands of a hacker, and with good reason. But most people arent at risk of such an extreme level of state-sponsored surveillance. So you should determine your own level of risk and act accordingly. That said, the Internet of Things does have a horrible reputation when it comes to security. So this could be a good moment to audit your connected device collection and consider junking any WiFi device whose makers don't quickly issue a patch they could pose some form of long term risk to your network. Install the HTTPS Everywhere extension As mentioned above, you can mitigate risks by prioritizing encrypted internet traffic over unencrypted traffic. The EFF has released a neat browser extension called HTTPS Everywhere. If youre using Google Chrome, Firefox or Opera, you should considering installing the extension. Theres no need to configure it, so anybody can do it. If a website offers unencrypted access (HTTP) and encrypted access (HTTPS), the extension automatically tells your browser to use the HTTPS version to encrypt your traffic. If a website still relies exclusively on HTTP, the extension cant do anything about it. The extension is no use if a company has a poor implementation of HTTPS and your traffic isnt really encrypted. But HTTPS Everywhere is better than nothing. Dont rely on a VPN as a solution On paper, using a VPN server sounds smart. But weve been there already be careful with VPN services out there. You cant trust any of them. When you use a VPN service, you reroute all your internet traffic to a VPN server in a data center somewhere. An attacker cant see what youre doing on your WiFi network, but a VPN company can log all your internet traffic and use it against you. For instance, The Register discovered last week in a legal document that PureVPN shared key information with authorities to track and arrest a man. And yet, the companys website claims that PureVPN doesnt keep any log. Again, dont trust any VPN company. Unless youre willing to build your own VPN server, a VPN service is not the solution. Especially paranoid? Move to the woods For the most paranoid out there, who dont want to/cant stop using WiFi entirely, it may be time to relocate to a remote cabin in the woods far from any neighbors/wardrivers. Tech CEOs version of this privacy preserving strategy is to buy up neighbouring properties and knock them down to minimize the risk of any of their personal data being snooped on. Obviously this strategy is very expensive. SoftBank (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 9984.T-JP) 's much-anticipated investment in Uber could be agreed upon within a week, according to Arianna Huffington, one of the board members of the ride-hailing app. The Japanese giant run by Masayoshi Son is seeking to invest $10 billion into Uber for a fairly substantial stake. But so far, talks have hit roadblocks as both sides are yet to decide on the pricing of shares.Media mogul Huffington, who has been on Uber's board since April 2016, said on Monday that a deal would come "very likely in the next week.""We are waiting at the moment on what is going to transpire in terms of the price," Huffington said in an on-stage interview at the WSJ D.LIVE conference in California. SoftBank's investment will be $1 billion to $1.25 billion at the company's last reported valuation of $69 billion, sources told CNBC . SoftBank also hopes to buy a 14 to 17 percent stake of shares from existing shareholders at a discount, the sources said. Thus potentially bringing the stake to around $10 billion. Earlier this month, Uber's board voted to accept the investment from SoftBank. The Japanese giant has been writing big paychecks to start-ups across the world. If the investment in Uber goes through, it will likely be one of its largest to-date, and give the ride-hailing app some firepower to continue aggressively expanding. Uber has faced a rocky few months with founder Travis Kalanick stepping down as chief executive following a number of scandals. Former Expedia CEO Dara Khosrowshahi took the helm at Uber in August and has had to tackle more issues including a ban in London for the ride-hailing service, as well as battles in the boardroom with Kalanick. Huffington addressed the problems Uber faced under Kalanick, calling him "brilliant" but also admitting that the company's culture was wrong."The problem was this worship at the altar of hyper growth, which means you forget to build the culture. Culture, we are now recognizing, is the immune system of a company We are recognizing that what happens in the culture is contributing to the bottom line," Huffington said. SoftBank (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 9984.T-JP) 's much-anticipated investment in Uber could be agreed upon within a week, according to Arianna Huffington, one of the board members of the ride-hailing app. The Japanese giant run by Masayoshi Son is seeking to invest $10 billion into Uber for a fairly substantial stake. But so far, talks have hit roadblocks as both sides are yet to decide on the pricing of shares. Media mogul Huffington, who has been on Uber's board since April 2016, said on Monday that a deal would come "very likely in the next week." "We are waiting at the moment on what is going to transpire in terms of the price," Huffington said in an on-stage interview at the WSJ D.LIVE conference in California. SoftBank's investment will be $1 billion to $1.25 billion at the company's last reported valuation of $69 billion, sources told CNBC . SoftBank also hopes to buy a 14 to 17 percent stake of shares from existing shareholders at a discount, the sources said. Thus potentially bringing the stake to around $10 billion. Earlier this month, Uber's board voted to accept the investment from SoftBank. The Japanese giant has been writing big paychecks to start-ups across the world. If the investment in Uber goes through, it will likely be one of its largest to-date, and give the ride-hailing app some firepower to continue aggressively expanding. Uber has faced a rocky few months with founder Travis Kalanick stepping down as chief executive following a number of scandals. Former Expedia CEO Dara Khosrowshahi took the helm at Uber in August and has had to tackle more issues including a ban in London for the ride-hailing service, as well as battles in the boardroom with Kalanick. Huffington addressed the problems Uber faced under Kalanick, calling him "brilliant" but also admitting that the company's culture was wrong. "The problem was this worship at the altar of hyper growth, which means you forget to build the culture. Culture, we are now recognizing, is the immune system of a company We are recognizing that what happens in the culture is contributing to the bottom line," Huffington said. More From CNBC Spains Deputy PM says Catalan has until Thursday to rectify decision. Investing.com - Spains Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria said on Monday that Catalan still had until Thursday to clarify if the region had declared independence or not. Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont had been given until Monday to clarify whether or not the region planned to break away from Spain. Instead the leader did neither and asked for talks with Spain. Saenz de Santamaria said it wasnt a difficult decision for Puigdemont to answer yes or no and regrets that he decided not to respond to the governments request. Spains Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy had given Puigdemont until Monday 3:00 AM ET (8:00 AM GMT) to tell the central government whether the region was declaring independence and until Thursday to change his mind if he called for secession. Spains Minister of Justice Rafael Catala said Monday morning that the government did not consider Puigdemonts letter a response, Spanish newspaper El Mundo reported. If Catalan does declare independence, Rajoy has threated to suspend the regions autonomy. Following Saenz de Santamaria's speech, Spains IBEX 35, fell 0.58%, the Euro Stoxxx was down 0.03%, Germanys DAX increased 0.18%, Frances CAC 40 rose 0.13% and in London, the FTSE 100 inched forward 0.05%. Related Articles Economic Calendar: Top Things to Watch This Week Spains Deputy PM Says Catalan Has Until Thursday to Decide on Independence Hong Kongs leader tinkers with economy in the face of 'grave' challenges By PTI: (Eds : With edits in 6th and 7th paras) Kolkata, Oct 17 (PTI) The expulsion of fourteen girl students from the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI)for their refusal to vacate an old hostel and shift to a new accommodation triggered protests on the premiere institutes campus today. The students alleged that building a separate accommodation for girls was an act of moral policing. advertisement Refuting the allegations, SRFTI director Debamitra Mitra said the authorities had taken this decision to build a separate ladies hostel, upgrade curriculum and infrastructure at the institute after receiving an approval from the Union Information & Broadcasting Ministry in 2013. "Earlier, the boys and the girls had separate accommodation in the same block of an old hostel building. After receiving the I&B ministrys approval in 2013, we undertook the construction of a new building for the girls," she told reporters today. Mitra said the objective behind segregation was to ensure the safety of students. "We wanted to segregate the students by the end of this academic session. The decision was ratified in the general council meeting in July. While the boys remained in the old hostel building, all but 14 girls shifted to the newly constructed girls hostel," she said. The director also said that she wont tolerate indiscipline on the institutes campus. "We tried to reason it out with the girls. Last week, we gave them 48 hours to vacate the old hostel. We told them if they didnt listen, they would be debarred from pursuing academics. But they refused to relent," she said. The agitating students, including the 14 girls, however, alleged that the management was trying to curb their freedom. One of the students said on condition of anonymity that the authorities had even called in police to stop their protests. PTI SUS RMS KK --- ENDS --- By Maytaal Angel BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Tata Steel and Thyssenkrupp have no plans to spin off their pending European steel joint venture within the next two to three years, Tata's managing director said on Monday. The two companies announced last month a preliminary agreement to merge their European steel operations, creating the continent's second-largest steelmaker after ArcelorMittal, with revenues of 15 billion euros ($18 billion). Markets widely expect the longer-term aim of the merger is an initial public offering that would give the two companies a way to exit the volatile European steel business, but Tata Steel ruled that out in the near term. "Definitely no IPO in the next two to three years," T.V. Narendran, Tata's managing director for India and South East Asia, told Reuters at the World Steel Association general assembly in Brussels. The memorandum of understanding the two companies signed has a lock-in period much longer than that, Narendran said. In India, where Tata plans to double capacity by 2022 to meet demand in one of the world's fastest-growing steel markets, Narendran said capacity at Tata's Kalinganagar plant was likely to expand to 5 million tonnes, not 3 million. Tata's board is due to decide on the matter within the next two to three months. Narendran added that none of Tata's capacity expansions in India will involve an increase in the group's leverage, because the company has strong earnings and can spread the costs out over several years. (Reporting by Maytaal Angel. Editing by Larry King) The historic 2015 Iran nuclear deal is "on life support" and hanging on "by a thread" after the Trump administration plotted a new course for containing Tehran, analysts warn. President Donald Trump on Friday refused to certify the accord to Congress. He instead asked lawmakers to toughen the agreement, negotiated between Iran and six world powers, by amending a U.S. law. At the same time, the administration will try to convince European leaders to impose new sanctions on Tehran and return to the negotiating table. Risk consultancy Eurasia Group reduced the odds of the deal surviving from 60 percent to 55 percent on Friday after Trump said he will terminate the deal if he cannot find a solution with Congress and U.S. allies. The strategy comes with many risks. Congress could disappoint Trump, causing him to pull out of the deal. The administration could fail to convince or coerce U.S. partners, leaving American influence diminished. Renewing sanctions could spark a trade dispute with Europe, fail to substantially dent Iranian oil exports and leave Tehran's nuclear program unfettered by restrictions or inspections currently in place.Congress must thread a needleIn Congress, Republican Sens. Bob Corker and Tom Cotton are leading an effort to change the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act to automatically restore sanctions on Iran if it crosses a number of red lines that their amendment would establish. Restoring sanctions suspended under the Iran nuclear deal is seen as the most direct path to unraveling the accord.RBC Capital Markets notes that Iran has already "vigorously rejected" renegotiating the deal, especially the clause that lifts limits on its nuclear program in 10-15 years one of Trump's core complaints about the accord."Hence, such a red line, alongside demands for enhanced inspections and curbs on missile activity, could turn the [Iran Review Act] into a 'poison bill' that the Iranians would be unlikely to swallow. Such an Iranian rejection in turn could be the catalyst for Congress to reinstate the waived nuclear sanctions," said lead author Helima Croft, global head of commodity strategy at RBC.The legislative solution is "hardly a layup," because it requires 60 votes to end debate and take a vote, according to Eurasia Group. That means Trump needs to hold all 52 Republican votes and attract eight Democrats."It's unclear if Trump can cross that threshold while hewing to his draconian proposals. The legislation could well morph into a softer version, leaving some room for consensus with the Europeans and Iran," Eurasia Group said.Congress will find it difficult to establish red lines that are not so brazen that Iran will not trip them on Day One, but are not so weak that they have no influence Tehran's behavior, said Richard Nephew, lead sanctions expert for the U.S. team that negotiated the deal. If Congress draws a red line at Iran testing a ballistic missile capable of traveling a certain distance, its leaders could test one the next day and force U.S. lawmakers' hand, said Nephew, now a senior research scholar at Columbia University's Center on Global Energy Policy.By establishing new red lines, the United States is telling Iran it cannot expand its nuclear program in a way that the 2015 international deal would have allowed, he said."You can't legislate what a foreign country is going to do. We still at some point have to talk to the Iranians," he said.The key to the red lines is determining the U.S. objective and calibrating them to achieve that objective, according to Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior Iran analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a think tank that backs a tougher line on Tehran.If the goal is to deny Iran the capability to develop a certain type of ballistic missile, then the red lines must be strong enough to dissuade Iran from carrying out multiple tests, he said. That denies Iran the data it needs to eventually build a successful missile."Honestly, it is going to be quite challenging, but it's going to require a whole of government approach" including Congress, the White House, and defense and intelligence agencies, Taleblu said.Trump's diplomatic 'malpractice' Similarly, the administration must get its European partners to agree to a shared set of goals and strategy, according to Taleblu. France has signaled its willingness to pressure Iran, and Britain could be the key to overcoming German intransigence, he notes. Meanwhile, Iran will surely be courting Europe as the Continent's corporations prepare to re-enter the Iranian market . "We have to beat Tehran to Brussels," he said, referring to the headquarters of the European Union.Suzanne Maloney, deputy director of foreign policy at the liberal-leaning Brookings Institution, also believes France and Britain are more likely than Germany to compromise. However, she said Trump may already be alienating its allies.The type of "wholesale antagonism" the Trump administration is embracing tends to provoke the Europeans and encourage them to go their own way, she said. Trump's exaggerations of Iran's violations and his harsh rhetoric on Friday may do more damage than the substance of his policy, said Maloney, a former State Department staffer under President George W. Bush and outside advisor to senior Obama officials."He's given Iran the moral high ground and that is an exceptionally difficult thing to do given the history and reality of Iran's misdeeds at home and in the region," she said. "It's just malpractice on the part of an American president." This weekend, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif took a measured tone and sought to connect Trump's effort to alter the nuclear agreement to his attacks on international trade deals and withdrawal last week from UNESCO . "It's withdrawing from everything. So people cannot trust anymore the word of the United States," he told the CBS program "Face the Nation."There are several reasons to remain cautiously optimistic, Eurasia Group said. Trump often backs down after talking tough, the European signatories will strive to keep the deal in place, the White House has limited foreign policy bandwidth to tackle the issue, and the Iranian leadership will be patient and flexible because sanctions relief is filling its coffers with oil revenue. The historic 2015 Iran nuclear deal is "on life support" and hanging on "by a thread" after the Trump administration plotted a new course for containing Tehran, analysts warn. President Donald Trump on Friday refused to certify the accord to Congress. He instead asked lawmakers to toughen the agreement, negotiated between Iran and six world powers, by amending a U.S. law. At the same time, the administration will try to convince European leaders to impose new sanctions on Tehran and return to the negotiating table. Risk consultancy Eurasia Group reduced the odds of the deal surviving from 60 percent to 55 percent on Friday after Trump said he will terminate the deal if he cannot find a solution with Congress and U.S. allies. The strategy comes with many risks. Congress could disappoint Trump, causing him to pull out of the deal. The administration could fail to convince or coerce U.S. partners, leaving American influence diminished. Renewing sanctions could spark a trade dispute with Europe, fail to substantially dent Iranian oil exports and leave Tehran's nuclear program unfettered by restrictions or inspections currently in place. Congress must thread a needle In Congress, Republican Sens. Bob Corker and Tom Cotton are leading an effort to change the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act to automatically restore sanctions on Iran if it crosses a number of red lines that their amendment would establish. Restoring sanctions suspended under the Iran nuclear deal is seen as the most direct path to unraveling the accord. RBC Capital Markets notes that Iran has already "vigorously rejected" renegotiating the deal, especially the clause that lifts limits on its nuclear program in 10-15 years one of Trump's core complaints about the accord. "Hence, such a red line, alongside demands for enhanced inspections and curbs on missile activity, could turn the [Iran Review Act] into a 'poison bill' that the Iranians would be unlikely to swallow. Such an Iranian rejection in turn could be the catalyst for Congress to reinstate the waived nuclear sanctions," said lead author Helima Croft, global head of commodity strategy at RBC. The legislative solution is "hardly a layup," because it requires 60 votes to end debate and take a vote, according to Eurasia Group. That means Trump needs to hold all 52 Republican votes and attract eight Democrats. "It's unclear if Trump can cross that threshold while hewing to his draconian proposals. The legislation could well morph into a softer version, leaving some room for consensus with the Europeans and Iran," Eurasia Group said. Congress will find it difficult to establish red lines that are not so brazen that Iran will not trip them on Day One, but are not so weak that they have no influence Tehran's behavior, said Richard Nephew, lead sanctions expert for the U.S. team that negotiated the deal. If Congress draws a red line at Iran testing a ballistic missile capable of traveling a certain distance, its leaders could test one the next day and force U.S. lawmakers' hand, said Nephew, now a senior research scholar at Columbia University's Center on Global Energy Policy. By establishing new red lines, the United States is telling Iran it cannot expand its nuclear program in a way that the 2015 international deal would have allowed, he said. "You can't legislate what a foreign country is going to do. We still at some point have to talk to the Iranians," he said. The key to the red lines is determining the U.S. objective and calibrating them to achieve that objective, according to Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior Iran analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a think tank that backs a tougher line on Tehran. If the goal is to deny Iran the capability to develop a certain type of ballistic missile, then the red lines must be strong enough to dissuade Iran from carrying out multiple tests, he said. That denies Iran the data it needs to eventually build a successful missile. "Honestly, it is going to be quite challenging, but it's going to require a whole of government approach" including Congress, the White House, and defense and intelligence agencies, Taleblu said. Trump's diplomatic 'malpractice' Similarly, the administration must get its European partners to agree to a shared set of goals and strategy, according to Taleblu. France has signaled its willingness to pressure Iran, and Britain could be the key to overcoming German intransigence, he notes. Meanwhile, Iran will surely be courting Europe as the Continent's corporations prepare to re-enter the Iranian market . "We have to beat Tehran to Brussels," he said, referring to the headquarters of the European Union. Suzanne Maloney, deputy director of foreign policy at the liberal-leaning Brookings Institution, also believes France and Britain are more likely than Germany to compromise. However, she said Trump may already be alienating its allies. The type of "wholesale antagonism" the Trump administration is embracing tends to provoke the Europeans and encourage them to go their own way, she said. Trump's exaggerations of Iran's violations and his harsh rhetoric on Friday may do more damage than the substance of his policy, said Maloney, a former State Department staffer under President George W. Bush and outside advisor to senior Obama officials. "He's given Iran the moral high ground and that is an exceptionally difficult thing to do given the history and reality of Iran's misdeeds at home and in the region," she said. "It's just malpractice on the part of an American president." This weekend, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif took a measured tone and sought to connect Trump's effort to alter the nuclear agreement to his attacks on international trade deals and withdrawal last week from UNESCO . "It's withdrawing from everything. So people cannot trust anymore the word of the United States," he told the CBS program "Face the Nation." There are several reasons to remain cautiously optimistic, Eurasia Group said. Trump often backs down after talking tough, the European signatories will strive to keep the deal in place, the White House has limited foreign policy bandwidth to tackle the issue, and the Iranian leadership will be patient and flexible because sanctions relief is filling its coffers with oil revenue. More From CNBC FILE PHOTO: An American Express credit card is seen on a computer keyboard in this picture illustration taken September 6, 2017. REUTERS/Philippe Wojazer/Illustration (Reuters) By Andrew Chung WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to decide whether American Express Co is violating federal antitrust law by forbidding merchants that accept its credit cards from encouraging customers to use rival cards that charge lower fees. The justices will hear an appeal by 11 states led by Ohio that had sued American Express of a 2016 lower court ruling that endorsed the legality of the company's "anti-steering" provisions in contracts with merchants. Merchants annually pay more than $50 billion in so-called swipe fees to process credit card transactions, and these fees can be passed along to customers through higher prices. New York-based American Express charges merchants higher fees relative to the other credit card networks, and generates more revenue, according to the states' legal papers. The company accounts for about 26 percent of all U.S. credit card transactions. As a result of advertising campaigns in the 1980s by competitors Visa Inc and MasterCard Inc aimed at convincing merchants and consumers to use cards with cheaper fees, American Express tightened contract provisions with merchants to stop what it called discrimination against its cards. American Express said in a statement it will "vigorously defend" the lower court's ruling before the nine justices. It said the earlier ruling "protects a consumer's right to choose how they pay, prevents our card members from being discriminated against and promotes competition in the payments industry." In a court filing, the company said that lower fees paid by merchants would mean fewer benefits for cardholders. The Obama administration and 17 U.S. states sued American Express in 2010 alleging that the company's anti-steering contract requirement obstructs merchants from using competition to try to keep credit card fees from increasing. A trial court agreed, finding that the rules kept lower cost networks out of the field and led to higher prices for merchants and consumers. In September 2016, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York overturned that ruling. Story continues The states - Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, Ohio, Rhode Island, Utah and Vermont - appealed the 2nd Circuit ruling to the Supreme Court. Visa and MasterCard settled similar lawsuits in 2011 by agreeing to change their rules. A number of companies backed the states' appeal in the American Express case, including supermarket and drugstore chains Kroger Co and Walgreens, which said credit card fees are among their largest and fastest-growing expenses. Southwest Airlines Co said in a legal brief that American Express had insulated itself from competitive market forces, resulting in "hundreds of millions (if not billions) of dollars in excess costs incurred by Southwest, other merchants, and their customers." (Reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham) On Monday, the U.S. military said it would begin practicing to evacuate noncombatant Americans out of South Korea, in case of an emergency. Nuclear Showdown author Gordon Chang explained why he believes the U.S. is preparing to go to war with North Korea. We are practicing the evacuation of American citizens. We are also doing something even more extraordinary and that is we are looking at a Taiwanese ship because we want to know if it would be served as a good hospital vessel for us. And that means that the Pentagon really is thinking about going to war and what we would have to do to protect Americans, he told FOX Business Kennedy on Kennedy. Earlier this year, the South Korean media reported that U.S. Navy SEALS were training with South Korean forces for a decapitation mission, to try and kill North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. All militaries practice this. What is different here is we are actually talking about it in public because normally thats not done. And really what they are trying to do of course is to scare and intimidate Kim Jong Un. It would be very difficult to get at him, unless we are doing it with a missile, but actually putting people on the ground to try and find him, thats probably not going to happen, Chang said. During an interview with CNN, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said the U.S. will continue its diplomatic efforts with the hermit kingdom until the first bomb drops. Chang believes there is a disconnect between Trump and Tillerson on how to deal with North Korea. I think this is just the president not enforcing message discipline and Tillerson having very different ideas on how this should proceed. When it comes to China I think the most important thing is that its the economic pressure that we are applying on them, not the insults, not the threats, he said. Related Articles Colony Capital, headed by billionaire Trump confidante Tom Barrack, will invest in The Weinstein Company, the film firm hit by widespread sexual harassment allegations against co-founder Harvey Weinstein.The Weinstein Company is also negotiating with Colony about the possible sale of "all or a significant portion" of its assets, the companies said Monday.In the statement, Barrack said the Weinstein firm has "substantial value and growth potential.""We will return the Company to its rightful and iconic position in the independent film and television industry," Barrack said. Numerous women have accused Weinstein, a powerful producer, of sexual harassment over a span of decades, according to reports this month from The New York Times , the New Yorker , and other outlets. He reached at least eight settlements with women over the alleged harassment, according to the Times. The Weinstein Company's board fired him earlier this month . The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences also revoked his membership . Weinstein has denied accusations of nonconsensual sex and said he did not retaliate against any women for refusing his advances.The accusations raised questions about whether The Weinstein Company could survive. The firm, behind numerous hits like "Pulp Fiction," "Shakespeare in Love" and "Kill Bill," previously denied reports that it is seeking a sale or shutdown. Barrack is a longtime friend of President Donald Trump . He headed Trump's inaugural committee. In a candid interview this month with The Washington Post, he said he believes Trump is "better" than what he has shown in office and that he tells Trump "all the time" that he doesn't "like the rhetoric" the president uses. The allegations against Weinstein have taken on political undertones because he was a major donor to prominent Democrats. Multiple Democratic senators said they would donate his campaign contributions to charity. President Barack Obama and former secretary of State and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton denounced Weinstein after coming under pressure to do so. Colony Capital, headed by billionaire Trump confidante Tom Barrack, will invest in The Weinstein Company, the film firm hit by widespread sexual harassment allegations against co-founder Harvey Weinstein. The Weinstein Company is also negotiating with Colony about the possible sale of "all or a significant portion" of its assets, the companies said Monday. In the statement, Barrack said the Weinstein firm has "substantial value and growth potential." "We will return the Company to its rightful and iconic position in the independent film and television industry," Barrack said. Numerous women have accused Weinstein, a powerful producer, of sexual harassment over a span of decades, according to reports this month from The New York Times , the New Yorker , and other outlets. He reached at least eight settlements with women over the alleged harassment, according to the Times. The Weinstein Company's board fired him earlier this month . The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences also revoked his membership . Weinstein has denied accusations of nonconsensual sex and said he did not retaliate against any women for refusing his advances. The accusations raised questions about whether The Weinstein Company could survive. The firm, behind numerous hits like "Pulp Fiction," "Shakespeare in Love" and "Kill Bill," previously denied reports that it is seeking a sale or shutdown. Barrack is a longtime friend of President Donald Trump . He headed Trump's inaugural committee. In a candid interview this month with The Washington Post, he said he believes Trump is "better" than what he has shown in office and that he tells Trump "all the time" that he doesn't "like the rhetoric" the president uses. The allegations against Weinstein have taken on political undertones because he was a major donor to prominent Democrats. Multiple Democratic senators said they would donate his campaign contributions to charity. President Barack Obama and former secretary of State and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton denounced Weinstein after coming under pressure to do so. More From CNBC While there have been a slew of recent workplace sexual harassment reports against big company executives at Amazon, Uber, and most recently, the co-founder of The Weinstein Company, Harvey Weinstein, the number of reported workplace claims has actually decreased over the years. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), 6,758 sexual harassment claims were filed in 2016, which is down from the 7,944 cases that were reported in 2010. However, overall sex-based harassment charges are increasing, the EEOC reports. In 2016, there were 12,860 cases reported, which is a slight uptick from 2010 at 12,695 cases. The reason says the CEO of American Association of University Women (AAUW), Kimberly Churches, is that many workers are still afraid to come forward. Its difficult to judge as to sheer volume of sexual harassment cases as so many are afraid of retribution and dont report the harassment they face in the workplace so many fear losing their paycheck or career opportunities if they speak up, Churches told FOX Business. Christine Nazer, a spokesperson for EEOC, told FOX Business, while the drop is not really significant, it is important to remember that these numbers are only a snapshot of what is happening and certainly not a full picture. First, though we dont know for sure, we feel confident that this may just be the tip of the iceberg, as many incidents of sexual harassment go unreported. It can be a difficult decision as to whether to come forward and file a charge with EEOC. Many people fear the stigma that may come with complaining, loss of their job or promotion potential, and some may even feel threatened physically or emotionally if they did so. Thus, these numbers should not be relied upon to give a realistic picture of sexual harassment in our country, Nazer said. Sexual harassment can occur in any workplace setting from agricultural fields, factory floors to so-called white collar jobs. It is pervasive, regardless of the level of the employee. The sex of the victim can be male or female; accordingly, the harassment can involve same-sex individuals. Story continues Yet, despite the decline in reported cases, there have been many high-profile claims in recent years. In June, Uber fired about 20 employees, including some senior executives, after an investigation into more than 200 sexual harassment and other workplace-misconduct claims. Forty additional employees were reportedly reprimanded or referred to counseling and/or training. The reports forced the company to set up a hotline for employees and former employees to file new complaints. In 2016, a jury awarded almost $8 million to a former Houston-based Chipotle Mexican Grill employee, who said she was sexually assaulted and sexually harassed and that at least one other manager knew about it. It was one of the largest lawsuit awards of its kind. In 2014, JPMorgan Chase paid $1.5 million to settle a lawsuit that charged the financial giant with maintaining a sexually hostile work environment toward its female mortgage bankers assigned to its Polaris Park facility, located outside Columbus, Ohio. According to the lawsuit, the situation consisted of sexually charged behavior and comments from the supervisory staff and participating mortgage bankers, which resulted in a sexist and uncivil atmosphere. I dont personally know a woman who hasnt faced sexual harassment at some stage of her career, Churches said. But she added that change is happening and companies are finally taking more action to prevent sexual harassment in their work environments. Were seeing for-profit and nonprofit organizations ensuring unconscious or implicit bias training is taking place more regularly in their companies to help counter the leadership gap and lack of opportunities for women and minorities, which includes education and policies on sexual harassment. AAUW recommends that all employees should read their employers handbook and policies as it relates to sexual harassment and if youve been victimized, you should first speak to close family, friends to build resources around you and make sure to document everything. Related Articles Does Zebra Technologies (ZBRA) have what it takes to be a top stock pick for momentum investors? Let's find out. For Immediate Release Chicago, IL October 17, 2017 Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include Canon (NYSE: CAJ Free Report), Geely Auto Holdings (OTCMKTS: GELYY Free Report) and Anglo American (OTCMKTS: NGLOY Free Report). Today, Zacks is promoting its ''Buy'' stock recommendations. Get #1Stock of the Day pick for free. Here are highlights from Mondays Analyst Blog: Live by the Sword, Die by the Sword: Global Week Ahead In the Global Week Ahead, traders need their split screens. There are three big official government gatherings going on. Then, there is the start of major companies reporting on their latest third quarter earnings performances. The tone has been good on earnings and terrible with governments. The Chinese meet -- to mostly re-elect their leaders. The Europeans meet -- to stick it to the U.K. on Brexit. Prosperous Catalans want to stick it to Spain. And the U.S. government meets with Mexico and Canada -- to stick it to them. One of the major puzzles for economists like me: Why is all of the radically tough political posturing going on? Consider this. The U.K. will mark a 4.3% unemployment rate. Yet, that nation is furious (or stupid) enough to want to leave the Eurozone. Over in the USA, the harsh tone is no better understood. The U.S. economy just marked a 4.2% unemployment rate. In Mexico, it is 3.4%. Yet, the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement is on its way to the gallows. Go figure. This contempt for joint stability and prosperity starts where? On Tuesday evening in the USA, the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China starts. This huge meeting occurs every five years. The main purpose is to elect leaders and reaffirm leadership roles including through multiple powerful committees. The other order of business is to assign policy priorities over the coming five years. Story continues One issue stands apart from the rest this time: President Xi Jinpings grip on power will be solidified. He is entering the second of the two permitted five-year terms as leader. Normally, this Congress would partly focus on anointing Xis successor a half-decade ahead of time. The fact that no successor is being groomed indicates to some Xi could be setting himself up for a longer term than tradition allows. Next Thursday and Friday, there is a hard-edged EU Leaders Summit. The EUs Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier recently said we have reached a state of deadlock. This remark refers to negotiations on the UKs exit penalty. EU leaders wont engage the U.K. in talks over Brexit transition issues and a follow-on trade agreement before a stiff penalty is paid up front. Therefore, this Summit has a hard Brexit tone. The next Summit is scheduled for December 1415. In the USA, keep a close eye on NAFTA talks. The U.S. dramatically increased tensions in the talks by proposing a sunset clause. This would force re-negotiations of the $1 trillion pact every five years. Sources told Reuters the atmosphere at the talks is horrible. Expect Mexico to suffer the most damage if NAFTA talks break down. Most of its exports go to the USA. Analysts expect growth to slow and the peso to weaken. Mexicos finance minister, Jose Antonio Meade, said this on record. His country is analyzing tariffs and import substitution plans -- in case NAFTA is scrapped. The peso is near a five-month low. Mexican stocks have lost almost -4% since mid-August. And dollar bond prices have slipped across the curve, the 2026 issue trading at three-month lows. Top Zacks #1 Rank (STRONG BUY) Stocks I continue to think. The 19th Chinese National Congress prompted some window dressing, by a number of sectors managed by officials going to the event. Here are some Asian stock tickers that stand out. These three firms have a good likelihood of benefitting from an ongoing Mainland China rise. (1) Canon (NYSE: CAJ Free Report): This $39 billion in market cap Japanese office automation and equipment maker is worth a fresh look. The stock has a long-term Zacks VGM score of A. (2) Geely Auto Holdings (OTCMKTS: GELYY Free Report): This is a big $31 billion in market cap Chinese automaker. The stock has a long-term Zacks VGM score of B. (3) Anglo American (OTCMKTS: NGLOY Free Report): This is a big $27 billion in market cap miner. The long-term Zacks VGM score is A. Key Global Macro In the USA, earnings season picks up. Potential candidates for the job of Fed Chair will get highlighted in the press. Housing Permits and Starts hit the tape. And it is the end of the 4th round of NAFTA talks. Fifty-nine S&P 500 firms release earnings this week. The names include Netflix, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, U.S. Bancorp, Amex, eBay, KeyCorp, Bank of NY/Mellon, American Airlines, General Electric, Verizon and Procter & Gamble. In Europe, tech heavyweights SAP and ASML report, as do Unilever, Daimler, and Nestle. Earnings for the S&P 500 should grow +4.4% y/y in Q3. Earnings for Europe's STOXX 600 should increase +5.3%. On Monday, Turkeys unemployment rate came in at 10.7%. On Tuesday, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) releases its minutes. The U.K.s consumer price index (CPI) looks to be +2.7% y/y. The Eurozones HICP consumer price index looks to be +1.5% y/y, and +1.1% in the core reading. The ZEW indexes come out. The German current conditions are forecast to be 89 from 87, and economic sentiment to 20 from 17. For the Eurozone, current conditions goes from 34 from 35.5, and economic sentiment goes to 33 from 31.7. The U.S. capacity utilization rate should be 76.1%. On Wednesday, the Feds Fischer speaks in NYC. The Feds Dudley and Kaplan speak in NYC, too. The ECBs Draghi speaks in Frankfurt. The ILO unemployment rate in the U.K. is 4.3%. Russias unemployment rate is 4.9%. U.S. building permits should be 1.26M and starts 1.2M. Those are decent numbers. The Fed releases its beige book. On Thursday, Australias unemployment rate comes out. It is at 5.6%. Retail sales on Mainland China should grow another +10.1% y/y, yet again. The unemployment rate in the Netherlands is 4.7%, while the SCB unemployment rate in Sweden is 6.0%. U.S. initial claims should stay low at 243K. On Friday, the unemployment rate in Mexico is 3.4% in seasonally adjusted terms. The Feds Yellen speaks in Washington. Strong Stocks that Should Be in the News Many are little publicized and fly under the Wall Street radar. They're virtually unknown to the general public. Yet today's 220 Zacks Rank #1 "Strong Buys" were generated by the stock-picking system that has nearly tripled the market from 1988 through 2015. Its average gain has been a stellar +26% per year.See these high-potential stocks free >>. Get the full Report on CAJ - FREE Get the full Report on GELYY - FREE Get the full Report on NGLOY - FREE Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/zacksresearch Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Zacks-Investment-Research/57553657748?ref=ts Zacks Investment Research is under common control with affiliated entities (including a broker-dealer and an investment adviser), which may engage in transactions involving the foregoing securities for the clients of such affiliates. Media Contact Zacks Investment Research 800-767-3771 ext. 9339 support@zacks.com https://www.zacks.com/ Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. 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Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. (GELYY) : Free Stock Analysis Report Canon, Inc. (CAJ) : Free Stock Analysis Report ANGLO AMER ADR (NGLOY) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research The RSS worker has been identified as Ravindra Gosai, chief of Raghunath Nagar Shakha of RSS in Ludhiana. By Shalini Lobo, Munish Pandey, Manjeet Sehgal: A Rashtriya Swayamsevak (RSS) worker was shot dead today morning by two bike-borne assailants in Punjab's Ludhiana. The deceased has been identified as Ravindra Gosai. Gosai was out to take a stroll with his pet dog in city's Kailash Nagar area when he was accosted by the two unidentified men. Police said he succumbed to bullet injuries on his neck. advertisement Gosai was the chief of Raghunath Nagar Shakha of RSS in Ludhiana. The police are yet to identify the accused. Following the incident, senior police officers rushed to the spot. This is not the first time that an RSS worker has been targeted by assailants. In February 2016, Naresh Kumar was attacked, however, he escaped unscathed. --- ENDS --- Pakistan has deported the Turkish former director of the PakTurk chain of private schools along with his family, his former colleagues and a lawyer have said. Mesut Kacmaz, his wife, and two daughters were flown out of Pakistan after having been detained in September in the eastern city of Lahore, former school officials said. A Pakistani government official who asked not to be identified told Reuters that the family was deported to Turkey over the weekend. "The Turkish family was taken into custody by a team of security officials," the official said. "On Saturday, they were deported to Turkey from Islamabad on a special plane sent by the Turkish government." Turkey has claimed the PakTurk chain of schools was linked to Fethullah Gulen, the U.S.-based cleric Ankara blames for orchestrating a failed coup in July 2016. PakTurk denies any links to Gulen, who himself denies involvement in the attempted coup. Usama Malik, a lawyer for the Mesut family, told AFP that the deportation had gone ahead despite a ruling by the Lahore High Court directing authorities not to take any action while the petition was still pending. He also said that Mesut family had been granted asylum in Pakistan as refugees until November 2018. There was no immediate comment by Pakistani officials. In November 2016, Pakistani authorities deported dozens of Turkish teachers tied to the PakTurk International Schools and Colleges following a visit from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. More than 10,000 students are enrolled at PakTurks 28 campuses across Pakistan. Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP and dpa - A mother shocked everyone when she delivered a 7.1 kilo baby - The baby boy's weight was measured twice just to be certain - Prior to the delivery, doctors had informed the mother her baby would be about five kilos. Clearly they belittled the giant boy A Vietnamese mother has given birth to baby boy weighing a staggering 7.1 kilos and nobody could believe it including doctors. The newborn who was named Tran Tien Quoc, was so huge his mother Nguyen Kim Lien asked the doctors at Vinh Tuong district medical center to remeasure his weight just to be sure the scale did not lie. The result was the same. Tran Van Quan, the boys stunned and excited dad said: When they told us that the baby weighed 7.1 kilos, we could hardly believe it." This picture taken on October 15, 2017 shows baby boy Tran Tien Quoc (top) next to an unidentified baby at the Vinh Tuong district medical center in Vinh Phuc province. Photo: AFP. READ ALSO: Couple welcome their first baby after 17 years of childlessness and prayers at TB Joshua's church Quoc is reportedly one of the heaviest newborns that has ever been born in Vietnam. The last time a baby that huge was born in the country was in 2008 in central Gia Lai province. Photos: AFP. PAY ATTENTION: Get all the latest gossips on NAIJ News App According to Guinness World Records, the heaviest baby ever in the world weighed 10.2 kilos. The baby was born in Italy way back in 1955. Would you marry a baby mama or baby 'papa'? on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng After media reports surfaced about Robert Vadra's alleged links with arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani on Tuesday questioned Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi's silence on the issue. By Mayuresh Ganapatye: After media reports surfaced about Robert Vadra's alleged links with arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani on Tuesday questioned Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi's silence on the issue. Rupani hit out at the Congress leader while addressing a press conference in Gandhinagar, only days after Rahul had targetted PM Narendra Modi for not speaking up on the business transactions of BJP chief Amit Shaha's son Jay Shah. advertisement "We want to ask Rahul Gandhi who will become party president as all state committees are passing a resolution in his favour. His relative Robert Wadra has links with an arms dealer. Vadra has taken favours from Sanjay Bhandari. Now Rahul Gandhi should comment on this", Rupani said. It was suprising to see CM Rupani and Gujarat BJP chief Vaghani bring up this issue in poll-bound Gujarat when the party's central leadership had already spoken about the matter. "Whenever there were corruption charges against our ministers or leaders, we initiated an inquiry against them. We have always taken stern action against our ministers. What has the BJP done? Instead of taking action against their own people, they are shielding them", said Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil. "The news reports showed evidence to establish that arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, who was also involved in money laundering, bought air tickets for Vadra. Why did an arms dealer buy tickets for Vadra? Some emails also suggested that Vadra and Bhandari used to operate a firm between 2009 and 2014", Rupani said. "This is a clear case of crony capitalism, where people misuse their power for financial benefits. Vadra is the face of such crony capitalism", the Gujarat chief minister added. SITHARAMAN ALSO SLAMS SONIA, RAHUL Meanwhile, earlier on Tuesday, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also hit out at Sonia and Rahul Gandhi for keeping mum on the matter, adding that the "studied silence" would of the duo would be construed as acceptance of the charges against Robert Vadra. Citing a media report, Sitharaman alleged that a London house linked to Vadra was refurbished by Bhandari, who also made arrangements for his travel abroad. She also claimed that an amount of 7.5 lakh Swiss franc was deposited in a bank account of Bhandari and asked whether there was a connection between this and the money spent on refurbishing the London house linked to Vadra. The minister, citing the media report, alleged that there were at least three transactions between them with "serious financial implications". When Sitharaman was asked what the CBI was doing as it was investigating Bhandari, she said that question should be put to the agency. "The government is taking all steps to bring the absconding arms dealer back to India to face law", she added. BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said, "If you believe that Robert Vadra is innocent, why not file a defamation suit? The silence shows guilt." advertisement Neither Robert Vadra nor the Congress has reacted to the matter. (WITH INPUTS FROM PTI) ALSO WATCH VIDEO | My Take: Jay Shah versus Robert Vadra political proxy war is a zero sum game --- ENDS --- Rochas Okorocha, the Imo state governor has reacted to a trending screenshot on Twitter, which showed his Twitter handle @GovernorRochas reply to political blogger Japheth Omojuwas Tweet. Legit.ng had earlier reported that Rochas Okorocha had come under severe criticism for erecting a statue in honour of President Jacob Zuma of South Africa in Owerri, Imo state capital. Omojuwa shared photos of Governor Nyesom Wike of with Real Madrid stars Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo who he met as part of the process of setting up of a Real Madrid academy in Rivers state. READ ALSO: Jacob Zuma speaks on his giant statue built by Rochas Okorocha He captioned the tweet; How long before Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos get their own statues? Photo credit: Twitter Governor Rochas reacted to Japheth Omojuwa's tweet via his verified Twitter handle saying; "You're very stupid". The governor, has however, come out to issue a disclaimer about his supposed response, saying it was "photo-shopped". It reads; DISCLAIMER: Let it be known that I never put out any tweet through my Twitter cursing anyone out, this is clearly a photoshopped image. In response, Omojuwa totally disagree with the governor. See screenshots below; PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android and read the best news about Nigeria The SCOOP: Ooni, Olori break-up, Nnamdi Kanu to resist arrest, PDP woos Dangote - On Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng These articles are part of a series being prepared in cooperation with the American Association of Bovine Practitioners. Advertising Opportunities is designed and edited to inform and educate the American dairy farmer. Its editorial material is focused on commercial dairymen who produce and sell milk. Emphasis in every issue is placed on feeding, breeding, and animal health, as well as general dairy farm management techniques. Attention is also given to farm equipment, buildings, milk production, and governmental activity. Contributing authors include researchers from agricultural colleges, veterinarians, dairy farmers, and specialists in subject areas relating to dairy farming. Our website, www.hoards.com and email newsletters have become the dairy producer's top digital resource for headline news, industry updates, market trends and more. Hoards Dairyman is a leader, a voice and an advocate for dairy producers while providing vital news, information and educational content. Internships Spend your summer with Hoards Dairyman! abauer@hoards.com All application materials are due by Friday, October 22, 2022. Are you an eager, ambitious dairy students interested in writing? If so, wed like to hear from you! For the past 34 years, theinternship program has provided agricultural journalism and dairy science students with an opportunity to write for a national dairy publication. Interested students do not need to be journalism majors but should show a strong interest in writing. A majority of the summer experience will be spent working directly with theeditors and writing content for the magazine.The internship will be based out of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. Interested students should mail a current resume (including college address), transcript, and cover letter, along with two written letters of recommendation, to Abby Bauer, Associate Editor, 28 Milwaukee Ave. West, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Materials can also be emailed to The Farm Flash page gives our intern an opportunity to be a regular contributor in each issue. When writing Farm Flashes, he or she will reviewarticles and university press releases and gain experience in technical writing. Our intern works with online our communication efforts, including blogging for our HD Notebook. Also, the editorial intern may occasionally write for our e-newsletter, Our intern works with the editorial team to gather articles, plan layout, and edit copy for the September 10 issue of the magazine that features World Dairy Expo. During the Hoards Dairyman experience, interns typically spend some time traveling to meetings and dairy farms across the U.S. Their goal will be writing farm stories and gathering Round Table leads, along with visiting with and documenting the story of the National Dairy Shrines Student Recognition winner. Click here for a one page summary of our internship. If you have any questions, please contact Abby Bauer at (920) 563-5551 or by emailing abauer@hoards.com. We look forward to hearing from you! Other dairy industry internships Dates: Held annually in June and July; offers seven choices of attendance datesLocation: Washington, DCMore Information: Contact your local or state 4-H or Cooperative Extension office on how to attend.Dates: Held annually in NovemberLocation: Atlanta, Ga.More Information: Contact your local or state 4-H or Cooperative Extension office on how to attend.Dates: Held annually in AprilLocation: Washington, DCMore Information: Contact your local or state 4-H or Cooperative Extension office on how to attend.Dates: Held annually in September or OctoberLocation: Madison, Wis.More Information: Contact your state 4-H office on how to attend. Other Programs College Programs Youth Breed Programs Dates: Held annually in NovemberLocation: Kansas City, Mo.More Information: Contact 888-472-4232Dates: Held annually every summerLocation: Various locationsMore Information: Contact your local ADSA Student Affiliate Division chapterDates: Held annually every springLocation: Various locationsMore Information: Contact 608-224-0400The world's largest dairy cattle breed association for those with a strong interest in breeding, milking, and raising Holstein cattle. Contact your state or local Holstein Association for more information.This website is for those who love Jersey cows. The website is now in Spanish. For more details on youth activities, contact your state Jersey Association.This breed's focus is on cutting edge of agricultural technology and Brown Swiss cows. Contact your state Brown Swiss Association for more information about its youth programsThe association's mission is to recognize and welcome the diversity of the Milking Shorthorn. Contact your state Milking Shorthorn Society to learn more about the breed's youth programs.All about the unique Red & White cows and those who breed them. Contact your local R&W Association for more information.Providing promotional programs and services to enhance the value and profits of the Guernsey breed for members, owners, and the dairy industry worldwide. Contact your state Guernsey Association for more information on youth programs.Dedicated to the promotion of the Ayrshire breed, with information on genetics, marketing, and how you can become a member. Contact your state Ayrshire association for more details on youth programs. 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 Rumours over budget cuts in the force has led to a number of protests by policemen in the state with the men resorting to things like shaving their heads and boycotting the mess. By Rohit Parihar: Government in Rajasthan is struggling to curtail unrest in Rajasthan Police over rumours that the force is being subjected to a cut in their salaries following a revision. More than fifty policemen have shaved their heads in protest, and many more have boycotted the mess. One policeman even climbed a water tank to make a point. But most embarrassing and serious situation arrived when some of them refused to offer guard of honour to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, while their own Additional Director General of Police, ML Lathar, was rushing to find a replacement. advertisement Home Minister of the state Gulab Chand Kataria has attributed protests to unfounded social media rumours. Director General of Police Ajit Singh Shekhawat has written to his cops clarifying state's stand and assuring that no decision regarding a cut has been taken. He has asked the men in the force to remain calm and abide by discipline and reassured that their case was being properly presented before a committee looking into anomalies because of which apprehension of a cut had began to build up. Authorities have meanwhile started taking action against protesting cops and have shifted six of them from a police station who shaved their heads to police lines. Singh's letter had a positive impact at a few places where cops returned to have their meals at the mess after its contents were read out to them. Such protests, unusual in a disciplined force are a result of weak leadership that the force has been subjected to for long. Singh has taken over recently but his predecessor Manoj Bhatt had a long stint of three years during which there was a large scale erosion of confidence of constabulary in their leadership with High Court hauling up senior officers including the DGP. --- ENDS --- By PTI: areas Ferozepur (Pb), Oct 17 (PTI) Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said the Centre was committed to extending all possible help to the people of Punjabs border areas and resolve their issues on priority. He stated this after Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh sought full support from the central government for the states development programmes for the border areas, including a proposed special package for the region. advertisement Amarinder made the request to Rajnath Singh while accompanying him on a visit to Hussainiwala in Ferozepur, where the two leaders paid floral tributes to martyrs Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru at the National Martyrs Memorial. The two discussed various issues concerning the development and progress of the border areas. Amarinder later told mediapersons that the state government was fully sensitized to the hardships faced by the residents of the border areas. He said his government was working closely and proactively with the Centre to resolve various issues related to the farming community, which had a large presence in the region. Pointing out that Punjab has a 553 km-long sensitive international border comprising the districts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur and Fazilka, Amarinder told Rajnath that his government was considering a special package to create new social and industrial infrastructure, reserve jobs in government and seats in selected educational institutions for the residents. The new industrial policy of Punjab also provides for special incentives to these areas, he added. Seeking central government?s support for the region?s development, Amarinder urged the Centre to provide a special one-time infrastructure development package for improving the states border areas. He also called for acquisition of land lying beyond the border fence by the government of India, as the same could never be optimally used for agriculture due to security restrictions by the Border Security Force (BSF). Till these pieces of land are acquired, the farmers should be compensated for loss to their livelihood due to border fencing, he added. The chief minister further sought liberal compensation by the Centre for land damaged or rendered ineffective for farming due to periodic military deployment. He reiterated the state?s demand for similar tax incentives and promotion schemes for the region as were being given to the hilly and north-eastern regions of the country. The border roads of this area should be taken up for special development and maintenance under the National Highway Programme, the chief minister said, adding that this would provide better access to the paramilitary and armed forces in securing the border while ensuring better connectivity for the region?s development. advertisement Another issue raised by the chief minister related to the Integrated Check Post (ICP) spread over 118 acres in Attari and used as a major corridor for import and export of various commodities, as well as for cross-border passenger movement, between India and Pakistan. Amarinder urged the home minister to consider the establishment of a railway linked CFS/ICD in and around the Attari Railway Station to further boost cross-border trade. Pointing out that no ICPs exist at Hussainiwala and Fazilka, the chief minister said while the CWC had confirmed that it was not commercially feasible to set up a ICP at Hussainiwala, no feasibility study had been carried out by PSWC for setting up ICPs at these centres. The chief minister also discussed with Rajnath the issue of minimum support price (MSP) support for alternate crops, urging the Centre to consider providing Deficiency Price Payment Support to farmers to help them get crop remuneration as per MSP declared by it for all crops other than wheat and paddy. This, he said, would encourage farmers to shift to cultivation of alternative crops such as maize, soyabean, oilseeds and pulses, thus destroying the non-remunerative wheat-paddy crop cycle. advertisement Amarinder said his government had already come out with a comprehensive loan waiver scheme to mitigate the economic hardships of the state?s distressed farmers. The Home Minister, in his address to BSF personnel, lauded their efforts in safeguarding the border areas with utmost sincerity, dedication and valour. PTI CHS AKK --- ENDS --- New York, Oct 14(Just Earth News): The United Nations Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide has strongly condemned provocation of ethnic and religious hatred armed groups and politicians in the Central African Republic and impressed the need for urgent, concerted and coordinated steps to end violence, defuse intercommunity tensions and alleviate the suffering of the civilian population. I condemn in the strongest possible terms the manipulation and incitement to ethnic and religious hatred instigated by armed groups and militias and accomplice politicians, with the aim of establishing territorial control, mobilizing combatants or extending their predatory instincts to private property and the countrys economic resources, said Special Adviser Adama Dieng, in a statement (originally in French). All victims made it clear to me that their wish was to live together in peace and harmony with all the people of the Central African Republic. The Special Advisers visited the country from 6 to 11 October amid reports of serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, including sexual violence, for allegedly belonging to certain ethnic, religious and/or armed groups as well as the manipulation of religion, ethnic sensibilities and community origins from the south-east to the north-west of the country. During the visit, Dieng met with authorities, including the countrys President, and raised concerns he observed regarding the seriousness and scope of the criminal atrocities committed with impunity by armed groups. The President, according to the Special Adviser, underscored his determination to continue the dialogue with the armed groups, in order to ensure that they put down their weapons. Further, Dieng urged everyone to condemn the unacceptable manipulations that seek to divide the society, and called on the Government and all parties commit to dialogue, but without sacrificing the need to strengthen the rule of law, to restore good governance and to combat impunity. Any individual responsible for criminal atrocities or incitement to commit such atrocities will sooner or later have to assume criminal responsibility for their acts and face national or international justice, he stressed. In the statement, Dieng also condemned attacks against the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the CAR (known by its French acronym, MINUSCA) and humanitarian personnel. Photo: OCHA/Emmanuelle Schneider Source: www.justearthnews.com Trumps decertification was based on his conviction that the Islamic Republic is not abiding by the spirit of the deal, the preamble of which says that the signatories anticipate improvements in regional and global security as a result of its implementation. However, this decertification does not remove the US from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Neither does it have any immediate effect on the multilateral agreement, which the other signatories continue to support. But in his speech, Trump underscored that he could use his presidential authority to re-impose sanctions, thereby ending American participation in the deal if Congress and the European negotiating parties failed to take adequate steps to improve upon what Trump has called one of the worst deals ever negotiated. Voice of America News notes that Trump reiterated his position on Monday, saying that the total termination of the JCPOA remains a distinct possibility. However, such remarks are somewhat at odds with the commentary that has been offered by his foreign policy team in the wake of Fridays speech. The New York Post emphasized that UN Ambassador Nikki Haley had spoken to NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday and said that the White House hopes to keep the US in the deal, but significantly strengthen it. Writing in the Washington Post, Jennifer Rubin called attention to Haleys remarks and also to those of several other administration officials including Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. She criticized a lack of continuity among these statements, suggesting that the foreign policy advisors are struggling to attach a suitable explanation to a course of action they had advised against. Indeed, it was widely reported in the run-up to the October 15 certification deadline that the presidents previous certifications in April and July had been offered only begrudgingly, after much insistence from Tillerson and others. Their advocacy for certification was presumably based in large part upon concerns that withholding it would strain relations between the US and its European partners who support the deal and believe it to be working as intended. This perspective did not fully prevail over the presidents animosity for the deal in this case. But it does not appear to have completely fallen flat, either. This was the conclusion of an article that appeared in the Christian Science Monitor on Monday and described Trumps action on the JCPOA as a compromise with his cabinet. Accordingly, some of the presidents domestic allies have addressed European partners since Friday in order to suggest that they should view the current situation optimistically because the White House did not withdraw the US from the agreement. Among those to speak in favor of this perspective is Bob Corker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee who was also one of the legislators who met on Monday to discuss the fixing of major flaws. Although Corker was a leading voice of opposition to the JCPOA during the negotiation and ratification processes, he now supports remaining in the agreement and has publicly clashed with the president on this topic. Their disagreement arguably deepened on Monday when, according to Reuters, Corker said that the Trump administration was going to have to cooperate with its partners and exercise tremendous diplomacy with our European allies in order to develop its Iran policy and resolve the nuclear issue. Mr. Trump faced substantial pressure from those European allies in advance of Fridays speech, and he will continue to face more in the wake of his decision to decertify without withdrawing. VOA News reported that the European Union had dispatched its foreign policy head Federica Mogherini to Washington so that she could work with American lawmakers on the issue. And The Guardian pointed out on Monday that all 28 of the EUs foreign ministers had reiterated their joint insistence upon full and effective implementation of the JCPOA. The Guardian report also indicated that many of the steadfast supports of the nuclear deal have cited tensions with North Korea as a reason to maintain it, fearing that the dissolution of a recently-negotiated agreement would send a signal that there is no value in holding diplomatic talks with a nation that might proceed to break that agreement unilaterally, or threaten to do so. However, Trump himself has dismissed the notion of negotiations with the North Korean communist dictatorship, even going so far as to say that Secretary Tillerson was wasting his time by trying to open talks. In the meantime, tensions between North Korea and the Western world have been escalating in the face of multiple tests of delivery systems of nuclear weapons. But the same is true of Iran, which has carried out upwards of a dozen ballistic missile tests since the conclusion of nuclear negotiations, despite the fact that a concurrent UN Security Council resolution called upon the Islamic Republic to avoid work on such nuclear-capable weapons. These missile tests and similar provocative Iranian behaviors are key reasons for the US presidents conclusion that Iran is not in compliance with the spirit of the deal. These activities may also represent an opportunity for much-needed cooperation between Trump and his European counterparts, most of whom support the JCPOA but still recognize the need to constrain Irans belligerence and anti-Western rhetoric. Those tendencies were once again on display in the aftermath of Trumps speech when, according to CBS News, the regime threatened to once again expand its conventional weapons development and stockpiles in response to the supposed perception of Western threats. The cyberattack that occurred on June 23rd affected the email accounts of dozens of MPs and several other senior ministers, including Prime Minister Theresa May. Every MP uses the network that was compromised for interactions with constituents, the Guardian reported. MPs were told of the cyber attack on Friday night and said they were unable to access their emails the following morning. Despite repeated warnings to choose strong passwords, UK intelligence determined that the hackers had attempted to gain access to accounts protected by weak passwords. An anonymous security source cited by the Guardian said the hackers used specifically designed programs that test hundreds of thousands of different passwords combinations. It was a brute-force attack. It appears to have been state-sponsored. The nature of cyber-attacks means it is notoriously difficult to attribute an incident to a specific actor. The attack absolutely could leave some people open to blackmail, according to Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen, who added that, Constituents want to know the information they send to us is completely secure. Suspicion initially fell on foreign governments such as Russia and North Korea, both of whom were previously accused of orchestrating hacking attempts in the UK. International trade secretary Liam Fox said the incident reinforced the notion that MPs need to take extra precaution when securing their data. We know that our public services are attacked, so it is not at all surprising that there should be an attempt to hack into parliamentary emails, and its a warning to everybody, whether they are in parliament or elsewhere, that they need to do everything possible to maintain their own cybersecurity, he said. We are continuing to investigate this incident and take further measures to secure the computer network, liaising with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), a parliamentary spokesperson said, and added, We have systems in place to protect member and staff accounts and are taking the necessary steps to protect our systems. Oz Alashe, a former special forces Lieutenant Colonel and chief executive officer of cyber security platform CybSafe, said compromising email accounts can merely be the first step in a wider attack. Email accounts represent a rich source of information for hackers, so compromising these accounts would often be the first step in a sophisticated cyber attack, he added. Terrorism experts say the collapse of the Islamic State terrorist group in Syria and Iraq may not reduce its efforts to spread in Europe. European officials remain concerned that the group will continue to gain and radicalize European followers. They also say it may not reduce so-called "lone wolf" attacks in Europe. Kurdish-led forces supported by the United States are close to removing Islamic State forces from the Syrian city of Raqqa. The terror group has used the city as its headquarters in Syria. But French and Belgian officials do not believe killings will stop in Europe for the next few years. Experts say territory held by the Islamic State helped the group gain fighters from other countries. They say it also helped the group show it was different from the terror group al-Qaida which opposed the creation of the Islamic State, or IS. Al-Qaidas leaders criticized Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi for naming himself caliph, or leader. Experts say one way for IS to show it still has power is to carry out attacks on targets in the West like al-Qaida did. Last month, al-Baghdadi released a recording in which he criticized the United States. It was the first time he had spoken publicly in 11 months. In the recording, he called on jihadists to attack the Syrian government. And he said IS still exists although it has lost much of the territory it had captured. He repeated the words of IS propaganda chief Abu Mohammad al-Adnani. He said holding territory was less important than the desire to fight. Al-Adnani is now dead. Al-Baghdadi also praised attacks on the West. He said America, Europe and Russia are living in a state of terror." French president says terrorism a top priority French President Emmanuel Macron spoke about terrorism in August. At the time, IS had been ousted from the Iraqi city of Mosul and Kurdish-led forces began their attack on Raqqa. Macron said the fight against Islamic terrorism is Frances top priority. He said it would remain so for some time. Since 2015, a series of terror attacks has killed more than 240 people in France. The country has 350 Islamic extremists in prison and nearly 6,000 militants under surveillance. Belgium also has supplied an unusually large number of fighters to IS and other jihadist groups. French and Belgian officials say IS is very innovative. They say efforts to reduce the groups activities on the internet have not been very successful. The group makes changes to its messages often to target possible recruits. It tests new ideas, much like companies that sell products do. Charlie Winter recently published a study on IS for the International Center for the Study of Radicalization and Political Violence. The research center is based in Kings College, London. Winter says the media war has always been as important for IS as victories in Syria and Iraq. He wrote that, for IS, propaganda production and dissemination is at times considered to be even more important than military jihad. Winter says that although IS has lost much of its territory, it can still take part in information warfare and recruit and incite. And he says the international community must be equally as creative and strategic-minded in its approach towards counter-communications. Officials and experts warn that radicalization remains a serious problem. Former French Prime Minister Manuel Valls has called radicalization a deadly social model. France is not alone in struggling to understand radicalization and to develop effective ways to fight it. Western governments still do not know how people are radicalized and why they take part in deadly attacks. Farhad Khosrokhavar is a sociologist and professor in Paris, France. He is concerned that governments still consider radicalization only a national security problem. He says governments should understand radicalization as part of other long-term problems. These include problems of stigmatization, social exclusion and delinquency. He says experts are only beginning to understand how the internet and closed social media groups can help form jihadist groups. He said they can be used to create the cult of what he calls the negative hero. At a conference in London last year, Khosrokhavar said a number of jihadist attackers in the West had been diagnosed with depression or other mental illnesses. But political leaders facing public demands to stop violence often resist efforts to increase understanding of radicalization. Former French Prime Minster Valls once said he was tired of social and cultural excuses used to explain jihad. To explain is to excuse, he said. Both France and Belgium have struggled to create programs that reduce radicalization. Earlier this year, an effort to create de-radicalization centers in France ended because of differences over how to run the programs. Im Bryan Lynn. And I'm Anne Ball. Correspondent Jamie Dettmer reported this story from Brussels, Belgium. Christopher Jones-Cruise adapted the report for VOA Learning English. Mario Ritter was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section, or visit our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story radicalize v. to cause someone to become more extreme, especially in politics jihadist n. someone who joins or supports a holy war against non-Muslims priority n. something that is considered more important than other things innovative adj. having new ideas about something; creative dissemination n. the spreading or sharing of something strategic-minded n. a persons ability to think imaginatively or systematically stigmatization n. the act of describing something in a way that shows strong disapproval social exclusion n. the act of making groups of people feel unimportant delinquency n. actions that are in competition with or opposition to accepted behavior cult n. a system of religious beliefs From VOA Learning English, this is the Health & Lifestyle report. Each year nearly three out of four children around the world experience some kind of violence. A new report confirms that finding and another troubling development: Childhood violence is linked with violence against women. Children who see their mother being abused are more likely to be abused as an adult or become abusers themselves. The report is called "Ending Violence in Childhood: Global Report 2017." The study was prepared for a children's rights group called Know Violence in Childhood. The organization was launched in India three years ago. The study found that childhood violence happens nearly everywhere -- in rich and poor countries alike. It affects an estimated 1.7 billion children every year. This violence includes fighting or bullying -- the mistreatment or abuse of someone by a stronger or more powerful individual. It can also include sexual abuse, sexual violence and physical punishment, both at home and in school. The researchers did not include violence from war and other events. Ramya Subrahmanian is executive director of Know Violence in Childhood. She said that children experience emotional and physical punishment at young ages -- some from as early as two years of age. She adds that violence is a learned behavior that comes from deep, long-held cultural values. For example, in some societies, beating is a form of discipline. Economic cost of childhood violence The researchers say there is also an economic cost to society when children experience violence. They found that children who experience violence at home are more likely to miss school or even leave school and never return. They are less likely to get an education and succeed in life. Know Violence in Childhood reports that up to 8% of the worlds Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is spent on repairing the damage caused by childhood violence. GDP is usually defined as the total value of all goods and services. The report notes that even with such a high cost, governments fail to invest in policies that could stop the causes of childhood violence. The groups website explores ways to end the violence. It reports that experts say the first step is to speak out about violence against children. Keeping silent only increases the chance that violence will continue. The experts also say that is important to educate caregivers and empower children to be strong and resilient. The report says that anti-violence education needs to be included in school systems, community programs and in health services. And that's the Health & Lifestyle report. I'm Anna Matteo. Carol Pearson wrote this story for VOANews.com. Anna Matteo adapted her story for Learning English. Her report includes information from the "Ending Violence in Childhood: Global Report 2017." George Grow was the editor. _______________________________________________________________ Quiz Now, test your understanding with this short quiz. Quiz - Three Out of Four Children Experience Violence Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story trend n. a general direction of change : a way of behaving, proceeding, etc., that is developing and becoming more common discipline n. punishment for bad behavior resilient adj. able to become strong, healthy, or successful again after something bad happens A technical problem has caused the loss of all requests to enter the U.S. Diversity Immigrant Visa Program between October 3 and October 10. People who sent such entries to the so-called green card lottery in that period will have to do so again. The U.S. State Department posted a message about the issue on its website. It said the entries were not valid and were removed from the system. The State Department also said the technical problem has been fixed. It announced that the new entry period will begin at noon, U.S. Eastern Daylight Time on Wednesday October 18, 2017 and will run until noon Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday November 22, 2017." The lottery is the only way to get permission to live in the U.S. for non-refugees who do not have family in the country or an employer to sponsor them. Admission to the lottery requires a high school degree or work experience to qualify. The lottery is open to natives of most countries and the territories of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, can apply for the green card lottery. Natives from some countries are barred, however. These countries include Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, mainland China and Colombia. Also barred are the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, India, Jamaica and Mexico. People from Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, South Korea, the United Kingdom and its dependent territories, except Northern Ireland, and Vietnam also do not qualify. In 2015, the U.S. issued 48,097 diversity visas out of 531,463 total immigrant visas. Millions of people apply to enter the green card lottery. Im Jonathan Evans. Hai Do adapted this story for Learning English based on VOA News report. Caty Weaver was the editor. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story sponsor - n. someone who takes the responsibility for someone apply - v. to ask formally for something usually in writing By PTI: Ludhiana, Oct 17 (PTI) Two unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants shot dead a senior Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) leader in the Kailash Nagar locality here today, the police said. Ravinder Gosain, 60, was returning home after attending a morning drill (RSS shakha) when he was attacked, they said. Gosain died on the spot and the attackers fled, the police officials said. advertisement Yash Giri, city secretary of the RSS, while condemning the incident said it was "definitely a target killing". "The victim was in Sangh uniform and about to enter his house when the killers targeted him," he said. Police said they were examining CCTV footage from the cameras installed in the locality to get a clue about the culprits. Two suspects, with their faces covered, on a bike could be seen in the CCTV footage, they said. "We are working on various theories. Police teams have been dispatched to various places in search of the killers," Ludhiana Commissioner of Police R N Dhoke said. He said investigations were underway but added that it would be premature to term the incident as "terrorist crime". Significantly, last year, another senior RSS leader Jagdish Gagneja died after he was shot by bike-borne assailants in Jalandhar. The incident also comes at a time when BJP has been protesting against the killing of RSS and its own workers in Kerala. Opposition parties, the BJP and the SAD, strongly condemned Gosains killing. Punjab BJP chief and Union minister Vijay Sampla alleged that the killing proved that the law and order situation had deteriorated in Punjab. "His murder is reminiscent of the black days of terrorism," said Sampla while demanding security for RSS and BJP leaders. I have taken up this issue with Punjab Governor V P Singh Badnore and he told me that a report on this matter has been sought from the home secretary, said Sampla. "It is an unfortunate incident and we strongly condemn it. It is an attempt to disturb the communal harmony in Punjab," SAD spokesperson Daljit Singh Cheema said. The state government should take this incident seriously and those responsible for this heinous crime should be put behind bars, demanded Cheema, a former minister. PTI COR CHS VSD RSS ADS --- ENDS --- 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. Red Hat, Inc. provides open source software solutions to develop and offer operating system, virtualization, management, middleware, cloud, mobile, and storage technologies to various enterprises worldwide. It offers infrastructure-related solutions, such as Red Hat Enterprise Linux, an operating system platform that runs on hardware for use in hybrid cloud environments; Red Hat Satellite, a system management offering that helps to deploy, scale, and manage in hybrid cloud environments; and Red Hat Enterprise Virtualization, a software solution that allows customers to utilize and manage a common hardware infrastructure to run multiple operating systems and applications. The company offers application development-related and other technology solutions, such as Red Hat JBoss Middleware, a solution for developing, deploying, and managing applications; integrating applications, data, and devices; and automating business processes in hybrid cloud environments; The company's application development-related and other technology solutions also includes Red Hat cloud offerings, a software solution that enables customers to build and manage various cloud computing environments; Red Hat Mobile, a software development platform that enables customers to develop, integrate, deploy, and manage mobile applications for enterprises; and Red Hat Storage, a software solution that enables customers to manage large, unstructured, or semi-structured data in hybrid cloud environments. It also provides consulting, support, and training services; and realtime operating system, distributed computing, directory services, and user authentication. Red Hat, Inc. has collaboration with Juniper Networks Expand to provide a unified solution for enterprises designed to manage and run applications and services. The company was formerly known as Red Hat Software, Inc. and changed its name to Red Hat, Inc. in June 1999. Red Hat, Inc. was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL have some of the best cameras available on a smartphone. Theyre so good that they let a mediocre photographer like me take some pretty stunning shots. Part of that is due to the high-quality image sensors. Part comes from Googles software which helps with everything from image stabilization to HDR processing. But it turns out the cameras have a previously undisclosed ace up their sleeves: a custom co-processor called Pixel Visual Core. Its the first custom co-processor Google has designed for a consumer product, and right now its exclusively available in Pixel 2 phones. At launch, it helps enhance photos taken using the stock camera app. But Google plans to let third-party applications make use of Pixel Visual Core soon. The coprocessor features 8 custom cores capable of performing 3 trillion operations per second. That means the Pixel 2 can process HDR+ photos 5 times faster than a device without the chip, while using 10 percent of the energy. Google plans to launch a developer preview of Android 8.1 Oreo in the coming weeks, and itll enable developer support for Pixel Visual Core. Eventually the company says any third-party app that uses the Android Camera API will be able to take advantage of Pixel Visual Core to enable the same HDR+ features in their apps. But since the chip is programmable, its not limited to processing HDR+ photos. Google says more applications that take advantage of the coprocessor are on the way, including machine learning and imaging applications. By PTI: By Fakir Hassen Johannesburg, Oct 17 (PTI) South Africa is proud to be closely associated with a country like India which has a strong economy, Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini said today as he thanked New Delhi for helping the "poorest of the poor" in his community. Zwelithini said the partnership between South Africa and India was gaining momentum through BRICS and the bilateral ties have grown in areas such as skills development, agriculture, solar energy among others. advertisement Speaking at the official handover of two tractors by Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh to assist in rural agricultural development, Zwelithini praised India, saying the country was helping the poorest of the poor through various skills programmmes. "This gift of tractors symbolises a warm friendship," tweeted Ruchira Kamboj, High Commissioner of India to South Africa. "South Africa and India partnership through BRICS is gaining momentum. Today we stand proud to be associated with a country like India who have a growth rate of 6.7 per cent," said Zwelithini. "Our bilateral relations have clearly shown an interest in skills development, cooperation in agriculture, combating drought in South Africa, solar energy, strategies to combat HIV/AIDs, rural women empowerment and livestock development, especially in KwaZulu Natal," he said. He thanked India for providing technical and economic cooperation programme to Zulus in the fields of agriculture, rural entrepreneurship development and IT. "I am aware that more than one thousand students who are Zulus have been to India on this programme thus far. We salute this initiative as you are helping the poorest of the poor to be educated in various skills," Zwelithini said as he thanked Singh. Describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "my brother", the King said he was "overwhelmed" by the good gesture of the Government of India to present two tractors which are made in India. "This historic gesture will be of service to my people in deep rural areas," the King said. PTIFH MRJ AKJ MRJ --- ENDS --- Oh my goodness was this episode a delight! Early in the episode, I turned to my husband and said "Jake is totally going to propose to Amy," and then shrieked so loud that I'm pretty sure the neighbors heard us when it turned out that I was right. The whole thing was just executed so beautifully: the heist itself was carried out with the show's usual panache, and I totally agree that the actual proposal and the moment that promoted Jake to take the plunge were played in a fabulous, understated fashion. I particularly loved that Jake told Amy she was the best detective he knows. I should also note that "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" was co-created by Mike Schur, who has a long record of doing this sort of thing pitch-perfectly. And as Alan Sepinwall points out, Schur pitched this particular idea to Dan Goor, the show's co-creator and current showrunner. At a time when too many shows do will-they or won't-they romances, series that know how to move characters' relationships forward without leaving comedy or emotional pathos behind are especially valuable. I cannot wait to see how many wedding planning binders Amy has, and how much trouble Charles causes with the food. FBI Knew of Russian Bribes Before Obama Admin OKd Nuclear Deals With Moscow The FBI had intelligence on a Russian bribery, kickback, extortion, and money laundering scheme on U.S. soil aimed at growing Moscows nuclear interests well before the Obama administration approved two controversial nuclear deals with Russia, The Hill reported on Tuesday citing government documents and interviews. One of the deals, approved in 2010, gave Russia control of 20 percent of the U.S. uranium supply. Leading up to the deal, Russians wired millions of dollars to former President Bill Clintons charitable foundation at a time when Hillary Clinton presided over a department involved in approving the deal. While this activity was reported on by The New York Times in 2015, The Hills John Solomon and Alison Spann found that the FBI had an eyewitness account as well supporting documents of the activity as early as 2009. The Department of Justice was aware of the case, but instead of bringing charges in 2009, it investigated for four more years while the Obama administration backed the nuclear deals with Russia. The evidence gathered by Solomon and Spann suggests that the FBI kept the American public and Congress in the dark about the Russian criminal activity at a time when that insight could have played a key role in informing the U.S. officials who signed off on the deals. The federal agents used a confidential witness within the Russian nuclear industry as part of the investigation. That informant collected financial records, made secret recordings, and intercepted emails beginning in 2009 that showed Russian businessmen compromising an American uranium trucking firm with bribes, kickbacks, and even threats, according to documents from courts and the FBI. The Russians were compromising American contractors in the nuclear industry with kickbacks and extortion threats, all of which raised legitimate national security concerns, a person who worked on the case said. And none of that evidence got aired before the Obama administration made those decisions. The Russian activity was backed by high-level officials who later shared in the kickbacks, one agent wrote in an affidavit letter. The two U.S.-Russia deals in question happened in 2010 and 2011. The U.S. State Department approved a deal for Russias state-controlled nuclear giant, Rosatom, to purchase Canadian mining company Uranium One in 2010. That deal gave Russia control of one-fifth of the United States uranium. Controversy about the Uranium One deal has brewed for years with revelations that Bill Clinton collected hundreds of thousands of dollars in speaking fees in Russia while his wife led the department involved in approving the deal. Hillary Clintons spokesman deflected the claims when they surfaced, saying that she was not involved in the review of the deal and that a State Department official claimed that she never intervened on any [Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States] matter. The second deal allowed a Rosatom subsidiary, Tenex, to sell enriched uranium to U.S. nuclear plants. Before that, Tenex could only sell uranium recovered from dismantled Russian nuclear weapons. Eric Holder was the attorney general when the Uranium One deal was approved. He attended the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States with Hillary Clinton, but a number of officials in both the FBI and DOJ dont know if members of the committee were ever notified of Russian criminal activity. Spokespeople for Hillary Clinton, Eric Holder, and the DOJ did not return The Hills requests for comment. When the DOJ finally brought a case against the Russians involved in criminal activity, the department did not make much fanfare about it, with a single press release about the case appearing on the DOJ website a year after it had started, noting that one person was charged with a single count of money laundering. The lack of public disclosure about the case left many key officials in the dark. Even the assistant FBI director in charge of criminal cases was not made aware of the trial despite the criminal charges. The chair of the House Intelligence Committee at the time of the FBI probe, Mike Rogers, said he was never told of the case despite multiple lawmakers having serious concerns about the Obama administrations Uranium One deal. Not providing information on a corruption scheme before the Russian uranium deal was approved by U.S. regulators and engage appropriate congressional committees has served to undermine U.S. national security interests by the very people charged with protecting them, Rogers said. The Russian efforts to manipulate our American political enterprise [are] breathtaking. For documents related to the investigation and further details, see The Hill. From NTD.tv It seems that several prominent Algerian personalities can no longer take it or hold their tongues. They say enough is enough. The political masquerade and the drama unfolding in Algeria must end, the sooner the better for the interest of the Algerian people held hostage by political & economic crisis, which has reached its apex. Among the furious voices calling for political change in the North African country, two former ministers and one retired general who urge Algerians to unify their ranks to enable the country avoid descending into chaos. These are Ahmed Taleb Ibrahimi, former foreign minister and presidential candidate in 1999, Ali Yahia Abdenour, ex-minister, lawyer and human rights activist and retired General Rachid Benyelles, former navy chief. Thats enough!, they said in a press release published lately by Algerian media, stirring a fresh debate on the capabilities of the head of state to rule and remain in office. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika is no longer able to lead the country due to his health condition, they added voicing opposition to his bid for a 5th mandate. The current head of state, very heavily handicapped, is clearly no longer able to continue to lead the country, they stressed in their joint statement. In any other democratic country, such a situation would have led either to a voluntary resignation by the President for the sake of the Nations supreme interests or to constitutional removal from office, they underlined. Bouteflika, who is 80 and has held office since 1999, won a fourth term in a 2014 election after he suffered the previous year a stroke that affected his speech and mobility. He has since used a wheelchair during his rare appearances in public. Members of his team have publicly suggested that he may run for a fifth term in 2019 elections. In their joint statement, Ahmed Taleb Ibrahimi, Ali Yahia Abdenour and retired navy chief Rachid Benyelles said Bouteflika should be barred from seeking a fifth term. They accused those who really hold power namely the presidents family circle and a group of powerful oligarchs of preparing as candidate an old man who is impotent and unable to express himself. Their statement follows numerous calls by opposition figures, intellectuals and academics for Bouteflikas removal. In power since 1999, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who rarely appears in public, holds a record of longevity at the head of Algeria. Credit: The American Chemical Society The concept of "collective intelligence" is simple - it asserts that if a team performs well on one task, it will repeat that success on other projects, regardless of the scope or focus of the work. While it sounds good in theory, it doesn't work that way in reality, according to an Iowa State University researcher. Marcus Crede, an assistant professor of psychology, says unlike individuals, group dynamics are too complex to predict a team's effectiveness with one general factor, such as intelligence. Instead, there are a variety of factors - leadership, group communication, decision-making skills -that affect a team's performance, he said. Anita Woolley's research supporting collective intelligence quickly gained traction in the business world when it was first introduced in 2010. The attention was not surprising to Crede. Because organizations rely heavily on group work, managers are always looking for a "silver bullet" to improve team performance, he said. However, after re-analyzing the data gathered by Woolley and her colleagues, Crede and Garett Howardson, an assistant professor at Hofstra University, found the data didn't support the basic premise of collective intelligence. Their work is published in the Journal of Applied Psychology. "For decades researchers have looked at what makes a team work well. They've typically found that if a team performs well in one area, that is largely unrelated to how the team will perform in a different area," Crede said. "A team working on a production line requires a fundamentally different set of skills than a team trying to find creative solutions to a problem. While a Marine Corps fire team is great at its job, it's not going to work well performing surgery." Crede notes that of the six studies included in their re-analysis, only one - a 2014 study by researchers at Indiana University - correctly concluded there was no evidence of collective intelligence. Misinterpreting the data Crede says conflicting data was just one of three major problems he and Howardson discovered. Their analysis found participants in these studies were either unmotivated - which Crede suspects is likely the case - or they were confused by some of the tasks the groups were asked to perform. For example, as part of a brainstorming task, each team had 10 minutes to come up with different uses for a brick. Teams scored a point for each use, regardless of the practicality. At least one team included in the analysis received a zero on this task. Crede says it's hard to believe a team could not come up with one use for a brick. In this example, if one group does poorly because of minimal effort, it can artificially inflate correlations between performance across tasks, the researchers explained in the paper. As a result, Crede says Woolley and her team may have misinterpreted the data as an indicator of collective intelligence. They also did not recognize that teams can exhibit some consistency in performance across tasks, even when the team members barely interact with each other. In other words, the teams may not have functioned collectively. Instead, Crede says individual team members may have developed separate responses that were averaged across the team, rather than true collaboration. The fact that study participants were college students receiving course credit or community members receiving a stipend also doesn't reflect how teams form and function within organizations. "In real organizations, people typically know each other; they work together over time and work on very different tasks than the ones assigned in the study," Crede said. "A lot of teams are also comprised of members with high-level and different skill sets, and often one member functions as a leader." Work provides some useful insight Crede says in one study, Woolley and her team recorded team conversations while each group was completing a task, which offers a better understanding of how team members interact. In some groups, one team member dominated the entire conversation, and in other groups, there were more equal contributions. Crede says team performance generally suffers when one person controls the conversation. It is possible that team performance on one task may predict its performance on another similar task, Crede said. However, for researchers to fully understand this relationship, their work must mirror team composition and tasks in real organizations. Crede cautions that this may be difficult to replicate in a lab setting. Salk researchers find that the p75 protein is vital for signaling pain in the nervous system. The presence of p75 (green) and Ret (red) together in some sensory neurons suggests that the proteins may interact with each other. Credit: Salk Institute Sensory neurons regulate how we recognize pain, touch, and the movement and position of our own bodies, but the field of neuroscience is just beginning to unravel this circuitry. Now, new research from the Salk Institute shows how a protein called p75 is critical for pain signaling, which could one day have implications for treating neurological disorders as well as trauma such as spinal cord injury. "The p75 protein is a busybody. It plays a role in many different signaling pathways," says Salk Professor Kuo-Fen Lee, holder of the Helen McLoraine Chair in Molecular Neurobiology and co-senior author of the new work. "This complexity makes the protein interesting to study. In this latest research, we discovered that, in addition to its other functions, it's also required for the survival of certain pain-sensing neurons." The results are published October 17, 2017, in Cell Reports. Previous research by Lee's lab had shown that p75 is involved in a signaling pathway that regulates the development of sensory neuronscells which transmit our sensation of pain, touch and muscle tensionin the dorsal root ganglia. In this latest study, the investigators collaborated with a team at the University of Michigan led by co-senior author Brian Pierchala to further learn about the role of p75 in the development of sensory neurons. They studied mice lacking p75 only in the sensory neurons. When these mice were born, their sensory neurons were normal. But by the time they were six months old, some of those sensory neurons had degenerated, particularly the populations of cells that usually transmit pain signals. It turned out that p75 partners with another class of receptors, called the GDNF (glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor) receptor family. The p75 protein binds to one such receptor called Ret, which is associated with some neurological conditions as well as certain types of cancer. Members of the GDNF family support the survival of sensory neurons that transmit the pain signal and p75 enhances this survival-promoting effect by interacting with Ret. When p75 was removed, the survival-promoting signal from GDNF family members was reduced and the sensory neurons that need this signal to survive gradually degenerated. "In this particular study, one of the remarkable findings is that this relationship between Ret and p75 exists at all. It's something that wasn't previously known," says Zhijiang Chen, a postdoctoral fellow in Lee's lab and one of the paper's co-first authors. "This research adds further significance to the role of p75 as a master regulator for many different signaling pathways that are vital for the nervous system to function normally." Lee says that although he doesn't know of any human disorders that are associated with the loss of p75 in particular, pain sensation is obviously vital for quality of life. "We do know of people who have these kinds of sensory deficits, and it can be serious problem," he says. "Thanks to this research, we now know more about the broad influence of the p75 protein." Future studies will look at the role p75 plays in two other types of cellsglial cells and skin cells. The investigators also plan to look in more detail at the role of p75 in different parts of the body. "We know that in the sacral region, there is a high percentage of sensory neurons with strong p75 expression," Lee says. More information: Zhijiang Chen et al. p75 Is Required for the Establishment of Postnatal Sensory Neuron Diversity by Potentiating Ret Signaling, Cell Reports (2017). DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.09.037 , Journal information: Cell Reports Zhijiang Chen et al. p75 Is Required for the Establishment of Postnatal Sensory Neuron Diversity by Potentiating Ret Signaling,(2017). DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.09.037 , www.cell.com/cell-reports/full 2211-1247(17)31312-8 Ms Ann Yau says scalp acupuncture is effective for treating autistic children. Credit: HKBU The School of Chinese Medicine (SCM) of Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) conducted a clinical observation of scalp acupuncture treatment for 68 children with autism. The findings indicated that 66 patients have shown improvements after treatment, resulting in an overall efficacy rate of 97%. The treatment was found to be more effective in younger children. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a disorder of brain neural development. The majority of the autistic patients developed significant impaired social interaction, verbal communication delay and behavioural disorder before the age of three. The effect of medication on improving the language, behavioural and communication abilities of the autistic patients is limited. Between May 2010 and June 2013, Ms Ann Yau, Lecturer of SCM's Division of Continuing and Professional Education, attended to the 68 autistic patients at the HKBU Chinese medicine clinics, comprising 57 boys and 11 girls aged between 2 and 10. She performed on each of the patients a course of scalp acupuncture comprising 30 bi-weekly sessions over a period of 15 weeks. Among the 68 autistic children, 47 are diagnosed to be suffering from "natal autism", i.e. they have shown abnormal social development and speech delay in the first one or two years after birth, while 21 are diagnosed with "regressive autism", i.e. they have normal development in the first one or two years after birth but have gradually lost the previously acquired skills and started to show symptoms of autism. Ms Yau selected five of the most common symptoms of autism as assessment criteria: impaired social interaction, delayed verbal communication, behavioural problems, noise sensitivity and food selectivity. The young patients were given a rating for each of the symptoms, the higher the score, the more serious the symptom is. The data were compared and analysed before and after the treatment programme. An autistic child patient receives scalp acupuncture treatment. Credit: HKBU The findings of the clinical observation revealed that the treatment has significant effect on 51 patients (75%) whose symptoms have been reduced significantly; the treatment is effective for 15 patients (22%); and ineffective for two patients (3%), giving rise to an overall efficacy rate of 97%. For the natal autistic patients, decreases were registered in the total score of each of the symptoms: a drop of 34.8% in delayed verbal communication, 37.9% in impaired social interaction, 27.6% in behavioural problems, 21.8% in food selectivity, and 17.2% in noise sensitivity. The children with regressive autism also recorded decreases in the symptoms: a decrease of 31.4% in impaired social interaction, 32.8% in delayed verbal communication, 21.4% in noise sensitivity, 23.4% in behavioural problems, and 30.9% in food selectivity. Ms Yau said that after the treatment the patients showed more notable improvements in social interaction and verbal communication than in behaviours, noise sensitivity and food selectivity. Moreover, the earlier the children receive acupuncture therapy, the higher the effectiveness. This therapy is also more effective for natal autistic patients than patients with regressive autism. The observation also studied the percentage of patients with allergic diseases and the percentage of their family members with allergic diseases. For the natal autistic patients, the percentages of those with individual and a family history of allergies are both 21%. For the regressive autism cases, 38% of the patients have allergic diseases while 52% of them have family members suffering from allergies. Provided by Hong Kong Baptist University Flow diagram shows patient selection. Credit: Radiological Society of North America A machine learning tool can help identify which high-risk breast lesions are likely to become cancerous, according to a new study appearing online in the journal Radiology. Researchers said the technology has the potential to reduce unnecessary surgeries. High-risk breast lesions are biopsy-diagnosed lesions that carry an increased risk of developing into cancer. Because of that risk, surgical removal is often the preferred treatment option. However, many high-risk lesions do not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life and can be safely monitored with follow-up imaging, sparing patients the costs and complications associated with surgery. "There are different types of high-risk lesions," said study author and radiologist Manisha Bahl, M.D., M.P.H., from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School, both in Boston. "Most institutions recommend surgical excision for high-risk lesions such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, for which the risk of upgrade to cancer is about 20 percent. For other types of high-risk lesions, the risk of upgrade varies quite a bit in the literature, and patient management, including the decision about whether to remove or survey the lesion, varies across practices." Dr. Bahl and colleagues at MGH studied the use of a machine learning tool to identify high-risk lesions that are at low risk for upgrade to cancer. The study resulted from a close collaboration between researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory in Cambridge, Mass., and breast imaging experts at MGH. Scatterplot shows score output of machine learning model plotted against a random number in the independent test set. Red circles represent high-risk breast lesions (HRL) upgraded to malignancy at surgery, and blue crosses represent HRLs not upgraded to malignancy at surgery. Vertical dotted line indicates 5 percent threshold, below which only one HRL was upgraded to malignancy at surgery. Credit: Radiological Society of North America "Because diagnostic tools are inexact, there is an understandable tendency for doctors to over-screen for breast cancer," said coauthor Regina Barzilay, Ph.D., the Delta Electronics Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT. "When there's this much uncertainty in data, machine learning is exactly the tool that we need to improve detection and prevent overtreatment." Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence in which a model automatically learns and improves based on previous experiences. The model developed by researchers analyzed traditional risk factors such as patient age and lesion histology, along with several unique features, including words that appear in the text from the biopsy pathology report. The researchers trained the model on a group of patients with biopsy-proven high-risk lesions who had surgery or at least two-year imaging follow-up. Of the 1,006 high-risk lesions identified, 115, or 11 percent, were upgraded to cancer. After training the machine learning model on two-thirds of the high-risk lesions, the researchers tested it on the remaining 335 lesions. The model correctly predicted 37 of the 38 lesions, or 97 percent, that were upgraded to cancer. The researchers also found that use of the model would have helped avoid almost one-third of benign surgeries. Graph shows accuracy achieved with machine learning model for independent test set as a function of model output score, both for patients with malignancy (red line) and for patients without malignancy (blue line), in independent test set. Vertical dotted line indicates 5 percent threshold. Credit: Radiologial Society of North America The machine-learning model identified the terms "severely" and "severely atypical" in the text of the pathology reports as associated with a greater risk of upgrade to cancer. "Our study provides 'proof of concept' that machine learning can not only decrease unnecessary surgery by nearly one-third in this specific patient population, but also can support more targeted, personalized approaches to patient care," said the paper's senior author, Constance Lehman, M.D., Ph.D., professor at Harvard Medical School and Director of Breast Imaging at MGH. "Our goal is to apply the tool in clinical settings to help make more informed decisions as to which patients will be surveilled and which will go on to surgery," Dr. Bahl added. "I believe we can capitalize on machine learning to inform clinical decision making and ultimately improve patient care." More information: "High-Risk Breast Lesions: A Machine Learning Model to Predict Pathologic Upgrade and Reduce Unnecessary Surgical Excision" Radiology, 2017. Journal information: Radiology "High-Risk Breast Lesions: A Machine Learning Model to Predict Pathologic Upgrade and Reduce Unnecessary Surgical Excision", 2017. A new Cleveland Clinic study underscores the importance of early detection and treatment of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The research, published online today in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, indicates that the sooner patients were treated, the better their survival, particularly for stage I melanoma. Using the National Cancer Database, researchers from Cleveland Clinic's Dermatology & Plastic Surgery Institute studied 153,218 adult patients diagnosed with stage I-III melanoma from 2004 to 2012 and found that overall survival decreased in patients waiting longer than 90 days for surgical treatment, regardless of stage. In addition, the delay of surgery beyond the first 29 days negatively impacted overall survival for stage I melanoma, though not for stage II or III. Compared to patients who were treated within 30 days, patients with stage I melanoma were 5 percent more likely to die when treated between 30 and 59 days; 16 percent more likely to die when treated between 60 and 89 days; 29 percent more likely to die when treated between 91 and 120 days; and 41 percent more likely to die when treated after 120 days. Patients with a longer time to treatment initiation tended to be older and male, and have more comorbidities. According to the authors, it is likely that more advanced cases represent delays in diagnosis, and these delays overwhelm the impact of a speedier treatment. However, in early stage cases, early diagnosis allows for the opportunity to improve the chances of survival with a prompt surgery. Although many physicians follow a rule-of-thumb to treat melanoma surgically three to four weeks after diagnosis, there is no official recommendation on time to treatment. "The ideal timing for melanoma treatment, predominantly surgery, had yet to be determined - until now," said Brian Gastman, M.D., a plastic surgeon, director of melanoma surgery at Cleveland Clinic, and the primary investigator on the study. "Patients and referring physicians are not only concerned with how a melanoma is removed, but also when it's removed. We saw significantly worse prognoses and outcomes for those surgically treated after 30 days of stage I melanoma diagnosis. Knowing for certain that a more expedient time to surgery to remove an early melanoma improves the chances of survival is a game-changer in treating this life-threatening skin cancer." Melanoma rates are on the rise, and it's estimated that 161,790 new cases of the disease will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year. On average, one American dies of melanoma every hour. The study is a stark reminder of the importance of detecting skin cancer early, when it's most treatable. The American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to regularly examine their skin for signs of skin cancer, including the ABCDEs of melanoma: ASYMMETRY: Is one half of a mole unlike the other half? BORDER: Does a mole have an irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border? COLOR: It there more than one color in a mole, such as shades of tan and brown, black, white, red or blue? DIAMETER: Is a mole bigger than 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser)? Melanomas are usually bigger than 6 mm when diagnosed, but they can be smaller. EVOLVING: Does a mole or another spot on the skin that look different from the rest? Is a mole or another spot is changing in size, shape or color? Anyone who notices any new, changing or suspicious spots on their skin, or any spots that are changing, itching or bleeding, should see a board-certified dermatologist for diagnosis. Because many physicians may be involved in the treatment of stage I melanoma -including general practitioners, dermatologists, general surgeons, surgical oncologists and plastic surgeons, among others - it's important for the entire medical community to be aware of the danger of melanoma and provide prompt treatment. In addition, patients should be prepared to be their own health advocates to prevent delays in their treatment. The public can also take steps to reduce their melanoma risk by protecting themselves from exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun and indoor tanning beds, a risk factor for all types of skin cancer. The AAD recommends that everyone protect their skin from the sun by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Drug interactions are measured by the shape of the contour on a checkerboard of dose combinations. Studying such interactions is challenging because of the sheer number of combinations, said Bree Aldridge. Credit: Cokol et al., Sci. Adv. 2017;3: e1701881 Cancer, HIV and tuberculosis are among the many serious diseases that are frequently treated with combinations of three or more drugs, over months or even years. Developing the most effective therapies for such diseases requires understanding how combining drugs affects their efficacy. If drugs reinforce one another, that synergy may be enough to lower the doses required, potentially relieving side effects, reducing treatment time, and improving patient quality of life. But if drugs work against each other, efficacy will be reduced. Now researchers at Tufts, along with colleagues at Harvard University and Turkey's Sabanci University, have developed a new method to measure how drugs act in combination. The new methodology is more efficient and less expensive than traditional testing, and provides a framework for systematic testing of any dose-dependent therapeutic agent. "Identifying synergies early in the pre-clinical drug development process can help us prioritize drug combinations for further development," said Bree Aldridge, assistant professor of molecular biology and microbiology at Tufts School of Medicine and adjunct assistant professor of biomedical engineering. "But studying such drug interactions is challenging because of the sheer number of combinations and the current method of measurement." Such testing has traditionally been done on pairs of drugs through a "checkerboard" methodology using an iPhone-sized plate containing a grid of tiny wells, typically 96 or 384 wells. A bacteriumor other target organismis placed into each well along with a carefully calibrated dose of the two drugs in varying strengths. Bacterial growth in each well is measured to determine its response to the drugs. The complexity and cost of testing increase exponentially with the number of drugs being examined. To determine synergy of five drugs would require measuring 100,000 cell response combinations on 1,000 plates. As a result, combinations of more than two drugscalled high-order combinationsrarely undergo such testing. The new method, though, doesn't require an exhaustive analysis of all cell behaviors in all possible dose combinations. Instead, in order to predict which high-order combinations are most likely to be synergistic, it targets only the most information-rich drug-dose combinations. In experiments using Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis, Aldridge and her collaborators found that measuring only certain wells in the grid mirrored the results obtained by testing all the wells. Aldridge uses the analogy of assessing metropolitan rush hour traffic. "Instead of monitoring traffic in every neighborhood and on every road, if you look at traffic at multiple key pointssuch as the Mass Turnpike and the airport tunnels in Bostonyou'll be able to get a pretty good picture of whether commuting will be a breeze or a nightmare." The new proof-of-concept study, recently reported in the journal Science Advances, analyzed pairwise and combination interactions among nine drugs now used against M. tuberculosis. Aldridge, whose work merges molecular and mathematical approaches to the study of mycobacteria, hopes to test additional drugs in future studies of the method, which is dubbed DiaMOND (diagonal measurement of n-way drug interactions). The paper's first and co-corresponding author along with Aldridge is Murat Cokol, former visiting scientist in the Aldridge laboratory and the Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology (LSP) based at the Harvard University School of Medicine, where Aldridge is also an investigator. Other authors are Nurdan Kuru, of Sabanci University in Turkey; Ece Bicak, who formerly worked with Cokol at LSP; and Jonah Larkins-Ford, a Ph.D. student in molecular biology and microbiology at the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts. Aldridge stresses that drug synergy should be only one consideration in developing effective patient therapies. "Synergies observed in the lab are not always associated with optimum clinical treatments," she said. For example, it may make sense to include less synergistic combinations in a regimen in order to help combat drug resistance. But, she added, "DiaMOND can play an important role by enabling us to do a much better job of identifying potentially valuable synergies among candidate drugs in the pipeline." More information: Murat Cokol et al. Efficient measurement and factorization of high-order drug interactions in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Science Advances (2017). Journal information: Science Advances Murat Cokol et al. Efficient measurement and factorization of high-order drug interactions in Mycobacterium tuberculosis,(2017). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1701881 A day after BJP MP Sangeet Som sparked a huge controversy by calling Taj Mahal a blot on the Indian culture, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the monument was built by the blood and sweat of Bharat Mata's sons. By India Today Web Desk: After distancing himself from BJP MP Sangeet Som's remark on Taj Mahal by calling it the leader's personal view and one not endorsed by the party, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a damage-control attempt, has said that the monument was made by the blood and sweat of Bharat Mata's sons. Adityanath added that protecting the Taj Mahal was the responsibility of the Uttar Pradesh government and that it was totally committed to doing so. advertisement Embarrassing his party, BJP MP Sangeet Som had on Monday while addressing a rally in Meerut said that the Taj Mahal was a blot on Indian culture and that "its creator wanted to wipe out Hindus" . The chief minister announced that he would visit Agra next week to review tourism schemes and added that the Taj was a historical monument, irrespective of who had constructed it. BJP MLA Sangeet Som had on Monday questioned the Taj Mahal's place in India's heritage and said that history would be rewritten to erase Mughal emperors from it. "It is immaterial who built the Taj Mahal and how it was constructed. It was made by the sweat and blood of Bharat Mata's sons", the chief minister said in his hometown Gorakhpur. "It is famous the world over for its architecture. It's a historical monument and its protection and further development for tourism is the responsibility of the government", Adityanath said. ADITYANATH TO VISIT AGRA ON OCT 26 Announcing that he would visit Agra on October 26 and that there was a Rs 370 crore work plan for the city, Adityanath said that it was the duty of the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure that proper security and facilities were extended to tourists. Governor Ram Naik weighed in with his views on the 17th century monument of love built by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. "The Taj is one of the wonders of the world and the pride of our country. So don't drag it into controversies and play politics over it", he said on the sidelines of the convocation of the Chatrapati Sahuji Maharaj University in Kanpur. In Lucknow, Principal Secretary (Information) Awanish Awasthi told journalists that the chief minister would also visit the Agra Fort and review other schemes as well for the city. Som's comments on the Taj Mahal had come after the Adityanath government reportedly omitted the 17th century monument from an official booklet on tourist destinations . "Many people are pained to see that the Taj Mahal was removed from the list of places (tourist destinations). What type of history?" he had asked during a public meeting in Meerut on Monday. advertisement SANGEET SOM's REMARKS CRITICISED ACROSS PARTY LINES Som's remarks prompted angry responses from other leaders. "I have always held the view that all symbols of slavery should be erased. Why only the Taj Mahal? Why not Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutub Minar and Red Fort? These are all symbols of slavery", Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan had said on Monday. Asaduddin Owaisi of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen asked whether the government would tell tourists not to visit the monument. The BJP stepped into the controversy with party spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao describing the Muslim rule in India as "barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance" while asserting that its members could hold any opinion they wanted on specific monuments. Following reports about the Taj Mahal being left out of the booklet, the state government had issued a press release stating, "Tourism projects worth Rs 370 crore are proposed, under which schemes worth Rs 156 crore for the development of parks and various facilities are meant for the Taj Mahal and its surrounding areas in Agra." (WITH INPUTS FROM PTI) WATCH VIDEO | Uttar Pradesh govt does not endorse Sangeet Som's comments on Taj Mahal: Adityanath advertisement --- ENDS --- Carl Eriksson. Credit: Orebro Universitet Today, a higher number of patients with ulcerative colitis are able to keep their bowel and steer clear of surgery, as shown in a study from Orebro University. Carl Eriksson, doctoral student at Orebro University, has also shown that the number of people suffering from the disease is 10 times higher today than in the 60s. Carl Eriksson has examined the outcome for people developing the inflammatory bowel disease ulcerative colitis in Orebro between 1963 and 2010. Over 1,000 patients are part of the study. More than 1 in 5 patients diagnosed before 1975 had to undergo surgery. This can be compared to 12 per cent of the patients developing the disease between 1991 and 2005. "The risk of having to undergo surgery is clearly reduced now. I would like to think that this has to do with improved treatments," says Carl Eriksson. Today, patients receive stronger treatments that reduce inflammation and symptoms. At the same time, his study shows that the number of people developing the disease is significantly higher today than in the 60s. "There are 10 times as many sufferers from ulcerative colitis today as in the 60s. Why there has been such an increase is an interesting question. One reason could be the fact that we do not smoke as much." Research has shown that smoking protects against ulcerative colitis. Another reason, says Carl Eriksson, may be that healthcare has got better at identifying patients with inflammatory bowel conditions: "More people are diagnosed since the examination methods are better today. But even if we account for that, there has been a significant increase," says Carl Eriksson. More information: C. Eriksson et al. Changes in medical management and colectomy rates: a population-based cohort study on the epidemiology and natural history of ulcerative colitis in Orebro, Sweden, 1963-2010, Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2017). C. Eriksson et al. Changes in medical management and colectomy rates: a population-based cohort study on the epidemiology and natural history of ulcerative colitis in Orebro, Sweden, 1963-2010,(2017). DOI: 10.1111/apt.14268 Provided by Orebro Universitet (HealthDay)During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performed by males, self-adjusted and nearest kneeling postures are more effective for chest compression, with lower perceived exertion, according to a study published online Oct. 5 in the Journal of Clinical Nursing. S.H. Ho, from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Daniel H.K. Chow, Ph.D., from The Education University of Hong Kong, applied a self-controlled repeated-measures design to examine the impact of kneeling posture on chest compression during CPR in males. The authors recruited 18 participants with a qualified first-aid certificate. Each participant performed three sessions of CPR on a mannequin using one of three kneeling postures (farthest, self-adjusted, and nearest) in each. Each session comprised five CPR cycles (30 strokes of chest compression within 18 seconds) in each kneeling posture and lasted two minutes. The researchers found that the efficacy of chest compression was significantly better in the self-adjusted and nearest kneeling postures than in the farthest posture. Similar effect was seen for the self-adjusted and nearest postures, while because of the lower rate of perceived exertion, most participants preferred self-adjusted kneeling posture. "The use of the self-adjusted and nearest kneeling postures during CPR in males resulted in more effective chest compression with lower perceived exertion," the authors write. "Both these positions can be objectively recommended to enhance the efficiency of chest compression and thereby increase the cardiac arrest survival rate." Copyright 2017 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Among patients who received red blood cell transfusions, receiving a transfusion from a donor who was ever pregnant, compared with a male donor, was associated with an increased risk of death among male recipients of transfusions but not among female recipients, according to a study published by JAMA. The most common cause of transfusion-related mortality is transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), which has also been shown to be associated with transfusions from female donors. Furthermore, TRALI is associated specifically with transfusions from female donors with a history of pregnancy. Rutger A. Middelburg, Ph.D., of Sanquin Research, Leiden, the Netherlands, and colleagues conducted a study of first-time transfusion recipients at six major Dutch hospitals to quantify the association between red blood cell transfusion from female donors with and without a history of pregnancy and mortality of red blood cell recipients. The group for the primary analyses consisted of 31,118 patients who received 59,320 red blood cell transfusions from 1 of 3 types of donors (88 percent male; 6 percent ever-pregnant female; and 6 percent never-pregnant female). The number of deaths in this group was 3,969 (13 percent mortality). For male recipients of red blood cell transfusions, all-cause mortality rates after a red blood cell transfusion from an ever-pregnant female donor vs male donor were 101 vs 80 deaths per 1,000 person-years. For receipt of transfusion from a never-pregnant female donor vs male donor, mortality rates were 78 vs 80 deaths per 1,000 person-years. Among female recipients of red blood cell transfusions, mortality rates for an ever-pregnant female donor vs male donor were 74 vs 62 per 1,000 person-years. Several limitations of the study are noted in the article. "Further research is needed to replicate these findings, determine their clinical significance, and identify the underlying mechanism," the authors write. From Sherlock Holmes to Agatha Christie, arsenic is often the poison of choice in popular whodunits. But in ultra-low dosage, and in the right form, this naturally occurring chemical element can be a potent force against cancer. Arsenic trioxide for years has been used to fend off a rare subtype of blood cancer known as acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Now, in a study led by Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), this anti-cancer agent is being considered for use against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common and aggressive type of deadly brain tumors. The study was published today in Molecular Cancer Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). "Our findings show that, for some patients, arsenic trioxide could be a powerful therapy that could extend the lives of certain glioblastoma patients by as much as three to four times the median expectation," said Dr. Harshil Dhruv, an Assistant Professor in TGen's Cancer and Cell Biology Division and one of the study's authors. Median survival of glioblastoma patients is only 15 months, and survival statistics have improved only minimally over the past three decades. An estimated 17,000 Americans will die this year of brain and other nervous system cancers. The origin of this new study had all the serendipitous turns of a good mystery novel. TGen had recently identified arsenic trioxide among a library of 650 compounds that could potentially be used against different subtypes of glioblastoma. While Dr. Dhruv was presenting these findings at a scientific conference, he met Dr. Jonathan Bell, who at the time was a graduate student in the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) at Northwestern University. He described his work, showing resistance of a specific subtype of GBM against arsenic trioxide. In two clinical studies they examined, the therapeutic effects of arsenic trioxide were initially dismissed. But as Drs. Dhruv and Bell drilled down into the studies, they discovered that a specific subtype of GBM cells were more responsive to the arsenic trioxide treatment. Northwestern was involved in one of the clinical trials, which tested the efficacy of arsenic trioxide in combination with temozolomide (TMZ) and radiation in treatment of GBM. Researchers at Northwestern were able to share biospecimens from their clinical trial with TGen. "We were then able to identify these particular patients as having the same genomic signatures as those we had tentatively identified in our computer and laboratory screenings of potential therapies," Dr. Dhruv said. The next step will be to validate the findings published in Molecular Cancer Research by initiating a new clinical trial specifically designed to match arsenic trioxide with glioblastoma patients that have a specific genomic signature, according to Dr. Michael Berens, a TGen Deputy Director and Professor in TGen's Cancer and Cell Biology Division, and one of the study's authors. These patients also would receive TMZ, which is the current standard-of-care drug given to GBM patients. "This is an amazing convergence of complimentary thinking," Dr. Berens said. "We tripped over a clinical partner who said, 'Oh, we've already done the (preliminary) clinical trial.' " "We sought to identify compounds that specifically disrupt the growth of different GBM molecular subtypes," said Dr. Leonidas Platanias, Director of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, and the study's senior author. Researchers reassessed the earlier clinical trials and zeroed in on mesenchymal (MES) and proneural (PN) glioma subtypes, whose genomic signatures differ according to distinct underlying misbehaving genes. "Arsenic trioxide was found to be the most potent compound in non-MES GBM cells. We found that PN GBM patients responded better to ATO (arsenic trioxide) than any other subtypes as demonstrated by longer overall and progression-free survival," said Dr. Bell, the study's lead author. Researchers identified two additional advantages of using arsenic trioxide. First, it is a small molecule able to penetrate the network of ultra-small capillariesthe blood-brain barrierthat surrounds the brain and spinal fluid and protects the central nervous system from most toxins and spikes in hormones. It is this barrier that prevents most other anti-cancer drugs from attacking brain tumors. Second, its costs are minimal, since its source material, arsenic, is abundant in nature. "Rather than treat all patients, we want to design a prospective clinical trial that we can enrich for those patients whose genomic signatures indicate they would be the best candidates for success," Dr. Dhruv said. "This would be a biomarker-driven, precision-medicine clinical trial for glioblastomaa way to match the right drug to the right patient." The September 2017 CareerJunction Index report shows that the number of IT jobs in South Africa has started to increase after a steady decline since the beginning of the year. The CareerJunction Index uses data gathered from the CareerJunction website to represent labour dynamics in South Africa. According to the report, for the first time in six months, there has been a slight uptake in demand for ICT professionals. However, the vacancy levels in the South African ICT sector are still significantly lower than what they were a year ago. This is in line with many other fields, which have suffered due to the slowdown in the local economy. 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: Degrees which will get you the biggest starting salary in South Africa "The shipyard has switched to the final stage of the ships builders sea trials. The large amphibious assault ship has arrived at the acceptance base in Baltiysk [in west Russia] and is undergoing preparations for going to sea," the press office said. "During the final stage of the builders sea trials, the ships weapons and communication system will be tested and work with its bow and stern landing gear will be carried out," the press office added. The Project 11711 large amphibious assault ship is armed with AK-176M and AK-630M guns and two shipborne versions of the A-215 Grad-M multiple launch rocket system with a range of about 20 kilometers (12 miles) to hit coastal targets and support amphibious assault units. The ship can carry a Kamov Ka-27 (NATO reporting name: Helix) search and rescue helicopter or a Ka-29 (Helix-B) transport/combat rotorcraft. The ship can accommodate 13 tanks or 36 infantry fighting vehicles or armored personnel carriers and amphibious assault units. Copyright 2017 TASS. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. YEREVAN. When it comes to the new Armenia-European Union (EU) agreement, the matter is not so much its signing, but implementation. Analyst Tevan Poghosyan, a former MP and Director of International Center for Human Development think tank in Armenia, told the aforesaid to Armenian News-NEWS.am. Im confident that will be signed, if there is no force majeure situation, Poghosyan stressed, in particular. In his words, Armenias current membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)which also comprises Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstandoes not impede the countrys accession to this agreement, since the latter is not even an Association Agreement. We should rather speak [about the fact] that it should not remain at the level of paper arrangements, and that there will be no actions that dont stem from the interests of our country, added the ex-MP. The new Armenia-EU agreement is expected to be signed in Brussels in November. YEREVAN. Ariadne, a regtech designer based in London, hopes to test innovative solutions with Armenian banks. It is planned that Armenian financial sector will try out a new and comprehensive regulatory and compliance platform. The platform has been designed by the UK specialists, but the lead in local regulatory expertise will be provided by Armenian colleagues from a series of institutions. Regtech (a coinage from regulatory technology) is a branch of fintech that has been growing for the last few years, but there is still no one stop shop solution for the whole array of regulation. Ariadne wants to show the way out of the labyrinth (hence the companys name), and give a single framework for all kinds of regulatory checks, both for national regulators, commercial banks and non-bank financial institutions. This will allow banks staff to spend less time on searching through data, and more on a deeper analysis because the information is much more accessible and comprehensible. We can make technology run all those routine checks and present results in visually interesting ways, so that both central and commercial bankers will be able to oversee and monitor business better than they can today. This will also make time for banks to carry out better due diligence, and for the regulator with to monitor banks activity and compliance, Mr. Charles Brewer, the companys CEO, told Armenian News NEWS.am. Management of Ariadne has already met with the Central Bank, as well as the Union of Banks of Armenia and several Yerevan-based consultancies, to see how new technologies may be introduced in an orderly way. The UKs financial market is one of the most extensive across the globe, so testing new technologies there need to consider a vast array of issues. Thats why Armenia could be a good ground for developing a model which can be exported globally. This will actually help the banks themselves, as they can develop greater expertise and insight into the issues which compliance is intended to address, Mr. Brewer explained. New skills may also be exported to other countries as a valuable commodity. EU supports any call to phase out fossil fuel use Borrell: EU countries must work together to replenish their military stocks French Senator: Are the lives of Armenians worth less than the lives of Ukrainians? Turkey plans to strike targets in northern Syria Lavrov calls Zelenskyy's speech at G20 summit performance beyond all regulations and decency Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince embarks on Asian tour Ukrainian media report missile strikes in number of areas Chinese 50-year-old man runs marathon smoking Bloomberg: Paris overtakes London to become Europe's largest stock market Anti-Iranian rally held in Baku Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin: Pashinyan's approaches and wordings do not contribute to solving urgent problems Borrell announces appearance of EU rapid reaction force in 2023 Norwegian Defense Minister pledges $30 million to NATO fund for Ukraine Italy auctioned biggest truffle for record 184 thousand euros Serviceman kills fellow soldier in Armenia Kyodo: 67-year-old Japanese princess diagnosed with breast cancer Mehriban Aliyeva hurriedly gives up her role of UNESCO 'Goodwill Ambassador' before French Senate meeting Jeff Bezos says he's ready to give away most of his fortune Britain to allocate $11.8m to rebuild Ukraine's energy infrastructure Peskov: Kyiv cannot and doesn't want to negotiate, SVO will continue Turkey detains another suspect in planning terrorist attack in Istanbul Tasnim: Iranian authorities released 38 protesters in southeast Terrorist attack: Number of detainees in Istanbul grows to 50 Armenian FM presents to Europeans consequences of September Azerbaijani aggression Biden and Erdogan back extension of grain deal Macron and Erdogan meet on G20 margins UN: Earth's population is 8 billion people Indian PM urges G20 countries to find peaceful solution to Ukraine Minimum wage to rise in Armenia Erdogan and Biden hold talks in Bali Media: Macron asks Xi Jinping to 'pressure' Putin to return to negotiations UN: Armenia's population will decrease by 2050 Zelenskyy states that only realistic model of POW exchange is all for all Ameriabank launches Google Pay, Google Wallet support for card users in Armenia Argentine President Fernandez feels ill at G20 summit Ruben Vardanyan receives head of ICRC mission: We must ensure a peaceful childhood for children living in Artsakh Copper rises in price Newspaper: Armenian Prime Minister wants to hold referendum on constitutional amendments in spring Ardshinbank showcases the Google Pay for Android fans in Armenia Zelenskyy calls not to offer Ukraine compromise with territory and independence Secretary of State: U.S. stands ready to continue support for Karabakh settlement Google Pay is a new contactless payment option for Converse Bank customers French Senate to consider resolution on sanctions against Azerbaijan Zelenskyy addresses G20 leaders: It's time to stop Russia's war Karen Vardanyan donated 112 million drams for the medical equipment for National Center for Infectious Diseases Another four-day parliamentary session begins in Yerevan Gold declines in value World oil prices go down Plans to build 'death pyramid' in London that will hold millions of bodies Armenian and Georgian Foreign Ministries hold consultations in Tbilisi Azerbaijani and Iranian FMs hold phone conversation Steve Jobs' sandals sold for more than $200,000 Armenian PM accuses Azerbaijani leader of terrorizing Armenian civilians Azerbaijan shells Armenian positions on border again OPEC downgrades its forecast for global oil demand growth in 2022 White House: Biden and Xi Jinping agree on Blinken's visit to China CNN: CIA chief Burns meets with SVR director Naryshkin in Ankara Turkish FM Cavusoglu thanks Ararat Mirzoyan for condolences Putin signs decree allowing stateless persons to serve in Russian army Airbus CEO: There is no question of them breaking off trade ties Armen Grigoryan receives Igor Khovayev Britain and France sign agreement on strengthening cooperation on illegal migration US updates its sanctions list for Russia: Milur Electronics LLC, an Armenian company listed Potatoes prices grow by 20%: expert claims agriculture collapse in Armenia Peskov says Russian-American talks in Ankara initiated by Washington Morgan Stanley: UK and euro zone economies are likely to face recession Xi Jinping hopes for comprehensive dialogue between NATO, the EU and the US and Russia Japan proposes to deploy Australian nuclear submarines Biden calls talks with Xi Jinping at G20 summit frank WB: Debt levels among low- and middle-income countries soared in 2021 Xi Jinping: China does not intend to challenge the U.S. Scholz: Adopting a joint G20 summit statement is a tough task Biden and Xi Jinping oppose use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine Nikol Pashinyan receives Russian co-chair of OSCE Minsk Group 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 Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan said Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament are symbols of slavery and must be demolished By India Today Web Desk: Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan has joined the controversy over Sangeet Som's remarks on Taj Mahal and said Parliament and Rashtrapati Bhavan should also be demolished as they are symbols of slavery. "Why single out Taj Mahal? Why not Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutub Minar, Red Fort? They are all symbols of slavery," said Azam Khan. advertisement The Samajwadi Party leader said that he has always been of the opinion that all symbols of slavery must be destroyed. "Mai pehle se iss rai ka hoon ki ghulami ki un tamaam nishaniyon ko mita dena chahiye jisse kal ke shasakon ki boo aati hai," Azam Khan said. Azam Khan said if these monuments are symbols of traitors then they should be demolished. "Zaahir hai, traitors jinhe kehte hain RSS ke log, agar ye traitors ki nishaniyan hain toh demolish kar dena chahiye," he said. SANGEET SOM ON TAJ MAHAL On Monday, BJP MLA Sangeet Som said Taj Mahal was a blot on Indian culture and its creator Shah Jahan wanted to wipe out Hindus and imprisoned his father. Addressing a gathering in Meerut, Sangeet Som said it was unfortunate that Mughal "invaders" were part of the country's history and his government will change this history. "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from the UP tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? Whose history? The creator of the Taj Mahal (Shah Jahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out all Hindus from India," Sangeet Som said. "I have spoken against the Mughals, Babar, Akbar, Aurangzeb, about their history. They were foreign invaders. We cannot name our roads and buildings after them. What is their contribution," Som later said, denying that he had insulted the Taj Mahal. MAMATA, OWAISI HIT BACK Reacting sharply to the BJP MLA's remarks, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief Asaduddin Owaisi asked if Prime Minister Narendra Modi will stop hoisting the tricolour at Red Fort on Independence Day as traitors built the monument. "Can Modi and Yogi tell domestic and foreign tourists not to visit Taj Mahal," Owaisi asked. Even Hyderabad House in delhi was built by "Traitor"will MODI stop hosting Foreign Dignitaries??- Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) October 16, 2017 Trinamool Congress and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said such comments are a "manifestation of BJP's political agenda" and that the day is not far when the "BJP will try to change the country's name to rewrite history". "How can they say this building is built by the Hindus and this by the Muslims or Christians," said Mamata Banerjee, adding that such comments are against India's "heritage and age-old values" advertisement Recently, Taj Mahal's name was not featured in the Uttar Pradesh tourism booklet which was released to mark six months of the Yogi Adityanath government. The booklet, incidentally, carried the name of Gorakhpur temple. ALSO WATCH: Taj Mahal built by traitor, says BJP MLA Sangeet Som --- ENDS --- YEREVAN. The Council of Europe (CoE) and the European Union (EU) on Tuesday presented the results of several programs in Armenias judicial system, law enforcement agencies, and education sector. Accordingly, the four respective programs that were implemented in the country, from 2015 to 2017, have totaled 2.4 million. Natalia Vutova, Head of the CoE Office in Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia, told reporters that the expected signing of the new Armenia-EU agreement will have a positive impact on the implementation of CoE programs in the country. She added that their reforms aim to assist Armenia fulfill its commitments to EU and several other organizations. YEREVAN. The Azerbaijani MPs at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (PA) attempted to include the principle of territorial integrity in the matter of conflict resolution, but they did not succeed. Koryun Nahapetyan, Head of the National Assembly of Armenia delegation to the NATO PA, stated the aforementioned at a press conference on Tuesday. Even though the Azerbaijani delegation does not abandon its attempts at anti-Armenian propaganda, such attempts have received a balanced response, every time, added Nahapetyan. YEREVAN. Development of e-governance tools in the justice sector is a good example in the context of satisfying the needs of ordinary citizens. Ambassador Piotr Switalski, Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Armenia, on Tuesday noted about the aforesaid at the launch of the respective program in the country. In his words, thus, ordinary people will have the opportunity to see and sense the result of EU-Armenia cooperation. The EU diplomat expressed satisfaction that owing to this program, the best world track-record and modern management will be introduced in Armenia; and as a result, it will become a respective leader as compared to othereven to the EUcountries. Switalski added that these platforms are very important in terms of reducing corruption and bureaucratic risks. Kate Nahapetian, executive director of the Armenian Legal Center for Justice and Human Rights (ALC), announced the ALCs Property Documentation Database Project while discussing several of ALCs initiatives and the path to reparations at the Armenian National Committee of AmericaWestern Region (ANCA-WR) Grassroots Conference on Oct. 7, Armenian Weekly reported. The Armenian Legal Center announced its project, a database documenting stolen, confiscated, or lost property during the Armenian Genocide, such as homes, orchards, land, bank accounts, insurance policies, bonds, art, jewelry, and other properties. During the talk, Nahapetian noted that a collection of this information is vital to our efforts to realize reparations, and can act as a reliable source of data that will strengthen the Diasporas ability to advocate for justice in the political and legal spheres, as well as future diplomatic discussions or arbitration with Turkey. Because of the mass violence and destruction associated with the Genocide that resulted in the loss of documentation of properties, the ALC will not only collect physical documentation but also testimonies on properties from survivors or their descendants, which the ALC hopes can eventually be compared with Turkeys own records. In a talk co-sponsored by the ALC earlier this year at the George Washington School of Law, Dr. Umit Kurt, a post-doctoral fellow at Harvard Universitys Center for Middle Eastern Studies, spoke on the issue of Turkeys property records, noting that they are well-organized and can provide a detailed history to Armenian heirs. Dr. Kurt noted that despite plans in 2005 to make land records public, they still are not because of Turkeys National Security Committees intervention. The abandoned properties and liquidation commissions set up to confiscate Armenian properties also kept meticulous records, he said. The ANCA-WR conference panel, titled Road to Reparations, included UCLA Law professors Asli Bali and Jessica Peake, who are, respectively, the faculty director and the assistant director of the Promise Institute for Human Rights. Nahapetian noted ALCs partnerships with law schools, including UCLA Law and University of Southern Californias Human Rights Clinic. Through such partnerships with pro bono attorneys and students, the ALC is examining novel approaches to reparations and the best venues to pursue claims. BJP MLA Sangeet Som's comments on Taj Mahal have not gone down well with the people of Agra. By Siraj Qureshi: BJP MLA Sangeet Som's comments on Taj Mahal have riled most Agra residents, especially those in the tourism sector who are demanding an unconditional apology from him. Many said that the government must step in to put an end to all debates over Taj Mahal that are scaring away tourists and affecting the tourism business. Agra Tourist Welfare Chamber secretary Vishal Sharma said Sangeet Som's 'Taj Mahal is a blot on Indian culture' remark cannot change the fact that the 17th century monument is India's unofficial icon--one that even international celebrities visit during their trip to the country. He said that if people of Agra have to choose between Taj Mahal and the BJP-led government in Uttar Pradesh, they will gladly choose the former as history of Agra is incomplete without Taj. advertisement SANGEET SOM JUMBLED UP FACTS Agra Tourism Guild President Arun Dang said that Taj Mahal is not the only Mughal monument in the country and argued that the Prime Minister unfurls the tricolour from the Red Fort every Independence Day. Mirza Ghalib Research Academy head Mohd Ikhtiyar Jafri said Sangeet Som jumbled up historical facts when he said Taj Mahal's creator imprisoned his father and wanted to wipe out Hindus. It was Aurangzeb who kept Shah Jahan in captivity, Jafri said, adding that "it is a historical fact that Shah Jahan never ordered the massacre of Hindus, but Sangeet Som seems to be bent on changing history". AKBAR PROMOTED SYNCRETIC RELIGION Bhartiya Muslim Vikas Parishad chairman Sami Aghai said that comments made by leaders like Sangeet Som only serve to widen the rift between Hindus and Muslims in the country. Aghai said Mughals, especially emperor Akbar, promulgated the all-inclusive religion of 'Deen-e-Ilahi'. He said, "Shah Jahan was born to a Rajput mother which makes him a son of the soil". "Prime Minister Narendra Modi should immediately expel Sangeet Som from the party as this is the same man who is accused of instigating riots in Muzaffarnagar," said Aghai. State's urban development minister Suresh Khanna said Taj Mahal is part of Uttar Pradesh's heritage and that whatever Sangeet Som has said is not the BJP or the state government's official stand. ALSO WATCH: Uttar Pradesh govt does not endorse Sangeet Som's comments on Taj Mahal: Adityanath --- ENDS --- A Halton Regional Police Service news release Halton Region, Ontario Oct. 17, 2017 The Halton Regional Police Service is committed to policing excellence and maintaining Haltons standing as one of the safest communities in Canada. Today Halton Police announces that it is teaming with Motorola Solutions to commission Canadas first public safety LTE wireless network for first responders only. In a digital age, policing has become more complex with the need for both mission-critical voice communications and the ability to securely share data on a wireless network. For years, first responders have used voice radio to transmit messages to police officers and other public safety partners including neighboring police agencies in order to coordinate assistance to the public. As the Region has experienced unprecedented growth and modernization of technology, voice radio communication must be supplemented with data in order to provide detailed information to responders. With the addition of a secure wireless network used by more than a 1,000 members, first responders will be able to access and share information vital for heightened situational awareness, preserving the radio system for crucial voice communications. Recent changes in radio spectrum availability made by the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Chiefs of Police, Fire and Medical Services across the country have paved the way for wireless public safety data systems. For a front line officer, their cruiser and computer is their platform for response to calls for service and major incidents. At present, officers relay data through commercial networks which are designed for public use. Obtaining priority and access on these networks in times of crisis concurrent to public use can result in the inability for officers to obtain vital information when needed the most. Accessing this new technology gives Halton First Responders the dependable platform they need to respond efficiently to calls for service and major incidents. The Federal Government allocated this wireless spectrum for public safety agencies for good reason. Every patrol officer in Halton will soon be operating on our own wireless LTE network, said Deputy Chief Duraiappah, Halton Regional Police Service. With the leadership and support of our Chief and Police Services Board, our innovative team will be working with Motorola Solutions into 2018 to host the core of this network right here in Halton. It is our hope that other public safety agencies in our Region and across Canada will also benefit from it in time. The Motorola Solutions LTE network will be used by officers exclusively to instantly access data on their computers or mobile devices such as dispatch information, records information, GPS data, maps, pictures, videos, and real-time analytics for day-to-day operations and during emergencies. Halton Police is known to be an innovator within public safety. This new public safety LTE system is a major step forward in ensuring that Halton first responders have access to critical information when it is needed the most," said Bill Payne, manager of information technology, Halton Regional Police Service. Motorola Solutions commends the Halton Regional Police Service for their commitment to advance policing using todays cutting-edge technologies, said George Krausz, Motorola Solutions Canada President. By supplementing their Motorola Solutions mission-critical LMR voice network with a dedicated public safety LTE broadband network, they will be able to use next generation applications to help improve the safety of the Halton Region community and its first responders. The Halton Police LTE network core will be available to other public safety agencies that are looking to use a public safety-dedicated broadband network. Valletta (AFP) - Daphne Caruana Galizia, a prominent Maltese journalist and blogger who made repeated and detailed corruption allegations against Prime Minister Joseph Muscat's inner circle, was killed by a car bomb on Monday. Muscat condemned the killing as a "barbaric" act and ordered security services to devote maximum resources to bringing those responsible to justice. "What happened today is unacceptable on various levels. Today is a black day for our democracy and our freedom of speech," he told reporters. Caruana Galizia, 53, died mid-afternoon, close to her home in Bidnija in the north of the island. The force of the blast reduced her car to pieces and catapulted the journalist's body into a nearby field, witnesses said. She leaves a husband and three sons. Thousands of people, holding candles and waving placards, poured into the streets in the island's northeast resort town Sliema for a candlelight vigil to pay tribute to the reporter. People left candles, flowers and messages of support at makeshift shrines in the street. "When the people fear their government there is tyranny, when the government fears the people there is LIBERTY," read one sign left on the pavement with flowers and candles. A local television station reported that Caruana Galizia had filed a police complaint earlier this month about threats she had received. "I will not rest until justice is done," said Prime Minister Muscat. "Everyone knows Ms Caruana Galizia was a harsh critic of mine, both politically and personally, but nobody can justify this barbaric act in any way," he added. In the final entry on her blog, posted within an hour of her death, Caruana Galizia reiterated an allegation that Muscat's chief of staff, Keith Schembri, was a "crook" who used his government influence to enrich himself. "There are crooks everywhere you look now. The situation is desperate," she signed off. Story continues Caruana Galizia's death comes four months after Muscat's Labour Party won a resounding victory in a general election he called early as a result of scandals to which Caruana Galizia's allegations were central. - Panama connections - Muscat, premier since 2013, went to the polls a year early after his wife, Michelle Muscat, was accused of being the beneficial owner of a secret Panama bank account. Caruana Galizia had alleged the account was used to stash kickbacks from Azerbaijan's ruling family linked to an Azeri bank gaining a licence to operate in Malta. Muscat called the claims the "biggest lie in Maltese political history," asked a magistrate to investigate and has vowed to quit if any link is established between him and hidden offshore accounts. The premier has not applied that principle to two of his closest allies. Chief of staff Schembri and government minister Konrad Mizzi were both revealed last year to be owners of undeclared shell companies established through Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. Muscat has stood by both of them. Muscat, 43, is a former journalist who won plaudits for his polished performances at the helm of Malta's presidency of the European Union in the first half of this year. He won power in 2013, ending the 15-year rule of the conservative Nationalist Party on a pro-growth and socially liberal agenda. In his first term, he enacted legislation introducing gay civil unions and presided over a construction and tourism-based economic boom that analysts say won him the June election. Some of the corruption allegations that have swirled around his administration are related to a scheme under which wealthy individuals can acquire Maltese passports in return for investing in the island. There are also suspicions in other European Union countries that the island's financial services sector is facilitating tax avoidance. German tax authorities is currently investigating some 2,000 Malta-registered companies with links to German corporations. Politicians of all hues attacking India's arguably most popular monument globally. Here's all you need to know about the Taj row. By India Today Web Desk: The historic and iconic Taj Mahal has got embroiled into the greatest controversy ever with politicians of all hues attacking India's arguably most popular monument globally. Occasionally so far, fringe elements had sought to drag the Taj Mahal into controversy. For instance, they have claimed that the 'monument of love', built by Mughal ruler Shah Jahan in the memory of his dead wife Mumtaz Mahal, was originally a Lord Shiva temple. advertisement However, this claim has been rejected by the Aechaeological Survey of India which maintains the monument. Here is all you want to know about the latest controversy: SANGEET SOM Fresh controversy erupted after Uttar Pradesh BJP MLA Sangeet Som questioned Taj Mahal's place in history. He allegedly distorted historical facts to say that it was built by an emperor who had imprisoned his father and targeted Hindus. During a recent visit to Meerut district, Sardhana MLA also termed Mughal emperors Babur, Akbar and Aurangzeb "traitors" and said their names would be removed from the pages of history. Som said, "Many people were pained to see that the Taj Mahal was removed from the list of places (tourist destinations). What type of history? Is this history that the person who built the Taj Mahal imprisoned his father? Do you call it history when the one who built the Taj targeted many Hindus in Uttar Pradesh and Hindustan?" Sangeet Som said it is unfortunate if people like Shah Jahan were part of the history and his government will change this history. YOGI GOVERNMENT BOOKLET Som's reaction came to a booklet which reportedly left out the Taj Mahal from an official tourism booklet brought out by the Yogi Adityanath government in UP.However, the UP government denied any such deliberate omission. Avneesh Awasthi, director general UP tourism, reportedly said that it was merely a book to highlight the works done by the incumbent government and the projects it plans to take up. The Uttar Pradesh tourism booklet was released to mark six months of the Yogi Adityanath government. It includes Adityanath's Gorakhpur temple but did not find any mention of the Taj Mahal.BJP The ruling BJP is speaking in different voices in reaction to the latest controversy involving the Taj Mahal. A section of the BJP media reports quoted Uttar Pradesh BJP spokesperson Anila Singh as saying that Som made the statements in his own capacity. However, the national BJP described the Muslim rule in India as "barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance". They also asserted that the party's members could hold any opinion they wanted to on specific monuments.Asked about the BJP's stand on Som's comments on the Taj Mahal, party spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said the party does not have any view on specific monuments and its members can hold whatever opinion they have. advertisement "But as far as the Muslim-Mughal rule in this country is concerned, that period can only be described as exploitative, barbaric and a period of incomparable intolerance which harmed Indian civilisation and traditions immensely," he said. ASADUDDIN OWAISI All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi in a sharp rebuttal said that if traitors built the Taj Mahal, they also built the Red Fort and asked if Prime Minister Narendra Modi would stop hoisting the national flag. In a series of tweets he even asked if PM Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will ask domestic and foreign tourists to not visit Taj Mahal. MAMATA BANERJEE Reacting to Som's remark that Taj Mahal is a blot on Indian culture, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the day is not far when the BJP will try to change the country's name too. Mamata Banerjee, who is also the chief of the ruling Trinamool Congress, said the comments made by Sangeet Som on Taj Mahal are a "manifestation of the BJP's political agenda". Hitting out at the BJP, Mamata said that "what the BJP is practising is not democracy but autocracy". advertisement AZAM KHAN Samajwadi Party MLA Azam Khan went a step ahead of Owaisi and demanded that even the monuments and structures, built by the Britishers, which symbolise slavery should be razed. Khan said, "Main pehle se iss rai ka hoon ki ghulami ki un tamaam nishaniyon ko mita dena chahiye jis se kal ke shasakon ki boo aati ho... Akele Taj Mahal hi kyun? Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutub Minar, Lal Qila kyun nahi? Ye sab ghulaami ki nishani hai (I have been saying this for long that all symbols of slavery should be erased. Why only the Taj Mahal? Why not Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Qutub Minar and the Red Fort? All these are symbols of slavery)." "Zaahir hai, traitors jinhe kehte hain RSS ke log, agar ye traitors ki nishaniyan hain toh demolish kar dena chahiye (It is clear that if these monuments are symbols of the people whom the RSS people call traitors, they should be demolished)," he added. UP CM YOGI ADITYANATH UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will visit Agra on October 25 and he will also visit the Taj Mahal and other monuments in the city. advertisement Asked about the controversy, the UP CM said, "It does not matter who built it and for what reason. It was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers... It is very important for us, especially from tourism perspective. It is our priority to provide facilities and safety to tourists there." --- ENDS --- Ok then...I expect this to be trash, but watch it be my fave of the series. Same happened with Rogue One Reply Thread Link lol I remember thinking Rogue One wasn't going to be that good because of the reshoots and I ended up liking it more than TFA. Reply Parent Thread Link title as bland as the movie may be Reply Thread Link Mte. Basic title for a basic movie. Reply Parent Thread Link Because Han Solo was too non descript? Reply Thread Link This is what my mind immediately jumped to lol Reply Parent Thread Link MTE Reply Parent Thread Link This is exactly what I thought of too. Reply Parent Thread Link I am... whelmed. Reply Thread Link Dumb. Stupid. Pointless Reply Thread Link Also I don't think I'm gonna see it but I do hope they don't do what they did to Kirk in the first two Star Trek movies where they write him based on his pop culture reputation instead of what he was really like. It'd be really annoying if they wrote him as ~Mr. Cool~ instead of this guy: Reply Parent Thread Link You know that's what's going to happen. He's going to be some suave womanizer instead of the awkward dork he is. Reply Parent Thread Link #1 reason why I am not into this movie. I refuse any and all Han characterizations that aren't him as a gigantic space loser. He's shitty at smuggling, screws 90% of things up, and basically falls in love with the first set of super special chosen one twins that he falls across. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link it's 100% what they're going to do and i am not hft Reply Parent Thread Link This is Han Solo to me. Reply Parent Thread Link wow. so cool, very cool. Or should i say Solo cool..heh?? ok il see myself out Reply Thread Link v. creative much wow IDK, I'm expecting it to mediocre rather than a train wreck but I would be really curious to see the original footage that they shot that was apparently so bad they basically had to re-film the whole movie lmao Reply Thread Link lmao mte they're really asking for us to suspend our disbelief here Reply Parent Thread Link cancel it Reply Thread Link im so offended that this exists Reply Thread Link subject: franchise name is a cool subversion on the franchise name: subject title trope! radical. Reply Thread Link 2 Han 2 Solo for the sequel Reply Parent Thread Link here for it Reply Thread Link YES!!!!! Take it babe!!!! Tbh at first I was like oh @ it being adapted into modern-day, but OKAY. Make it work boo! Reply Thread Link Now that's what I call something I want. Depending on his role and the rest of the cast. Reply Thread Link Good for him. Reply Thread Link yes i would absolutely watch this Reply Thread Link Hamlet is one of my fave Shakespeare plays i am definitely here for this. Reply Thread Link Sounds good. Reply Thread Link I really hope this happens. He's apparently been wanting to do this for years. Reply Thread Link me when i saw "hamlet": oh cool! me when i saw "contemporary adaptation": ....ok i guess Reply Thread Link I am so tired of shakespeare. do something else Reply Thread Link Love him But I am tired of white people constantly fancasting him just to be diverse and woke. Its always him, Idris, Lupita, Fan Bingbing, etc. I love him but come on there are other Asian actors (Salim and the djin from American Gods for example) Reply Thread Link I love him too but I get what you mean, I always see the same poc fancasted (Idris especially). Reply Parent Thread Link white people only know 5 POC total. Reply Parent Thread Link Nice nice nice Reply Thread Link Oooh! This sounds good! Oscar Isaac as Hamlet remains the best I've seen. Reply Thread Link Season's eatings! The weather may be getting colder, but Dining Month on OnMilwaukee is just cooking up, dishing out your winning picks in this year's Best of Dining poll. Dining Month is brought to you by Fein Brothers, your premier food service equipment and supply dealer in Wisconsin since 1929. Congratulations to all of the winners, and happy eating for all those who voted! See all the winners for the month so far here. Though nobody's going to argue too much with the stern baritone of Marcellus Wallace himself, Ving Rhames, Arby's has worked hard over the past several years to live up to its beefy boast that it has the meats. That artery-clogging quest to make vegetarians cry has introduced sandwiches topped with all manner of dead animal, from pork belly to barbecued brisket to what appears to be an entire barnyard stacked inside a "Meat Mountain" sandwich. Amongst the odder off-the-wall meat options at Arby's recently, however, was venison, which the fast food restaurant introduced last fall in just 17 locations in five particular hunting-happy states including Wisconsin. The Bambi burger my name, not theirs; call me, Arby's marketing department must've hit a bulls-eye, as participating restaurants reported selling out of the sandwich within hours. So, of course, it's coming back. On Saturday, Oct. 21, the venison sandwich featuring a venison steak, marinated with garlic, salt and pepper, and sous-vide for three hours (I can hear you snickering!), then topped with crispy onions and a juniper berry sauce (stop laughing!) all between a toasted bun will return to all Arby's locations across the country. Those desiring deer from a drive-thru, however, will have to act quick: The sandwich is only available for in limited supply and only available for one day. If you miss out on the venison sandwich, however, Arby's apparently has another new carnivorous creation cooked up and ready to serve: an elk sandwich, this time featuring an elk steak topped with crispy onions and a blackberry port steak sauce (no, really, what's so funny?!) on a toasted bun. Unfortunately, if you want a bite of that crazy burger, you'll have to hitch a ride to the Mountain Time Zone, as the sandwich will have only a limited, one-day roll-out in a mere three locations in three select states: Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. Apparently, Wisconsin just doesn't hunt enough elk to qualify for the special sandwich. Whatever, Arby's; call me when you've got a kangaroo sandwich. And even then, the only thing that could surprise on an Arby's sandwich is a vegetable. To find the closest Arby's location, here's a map. The tried-and-true method for cooking your extra-large turkey is to roast it in the oven. The USDA recommends that you cook it at a temperature that is no lower than 325 F. An unstuffed, 20- to 24-pound bird will take an average of 4 1/2 to 5 hours to cook thoroughly. While family tradition may call for stuffing the cavity of the bird before cooking it, it's safest to cook your dressing or stuffing in a separate pan to avoid contaminating the dressing with juices from a cooking bird. Sprinkle salt and pepper inside the body cavity, or use a packet of dry salad dressing and seasoning mix for a blend of herbs and spices. When you think the turkey is done, insert a food thermometer into the meatiest parts of the turkey, such as the breast and thigh, to ensure that it registers a minimum of 165 F before removing the bird from the oven. That temperature is the threshold at which bacteria and other foodborne illnesses are destroyed in poultry, and you'll know you've successfully cooked your extra-big bird. Thai police said Tuesday they had seized half a tonne of crystal methamphetamine worth $30 million, their largest-ever seizure, as surging production in the Golden Triangle floods Southeast Asia. Police said the seizure was made on Monday in the northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima when a pick-up truck tried to evade a checkpoint before dawn. A man who was arrested said he was paid nearly $6,000 to courier the drugs from Laos to a staging point in central Thailand, where he was due to receive a call from the "kingpin" behind the deal. Crystal methamphetamine -- or ice -- is of high purity and sells for around $60-80 a gramme in Thailand. It is being churned out in unprecedented volume by Myanmar-based drug labs operated by the Wa -- a self-governing ethnic group behind the drug trade in the Golden Triangle which covers Myanmar's Shan State, Laos and northern Thailand. Drugs are smuggled south into Thailand, mostly destined for Malaysia or even Australia -- the world's largest per capita consumer of crystal meth -- where the price surges. "This is the largest 'ice' seizure ever (in Thailand) with a domestic value of one billion baht ($30 million)," national police chief Chaktip Chaijinda told reporters. "If it reaches a foreign country it could fetch 10 times that amount." The drugs were produced by "the North or South Wa groups and then trafficked through Laos to Thailand, destined for Malaysia," he added. The Wa churn out ice, heroin and highly-addictive caffeine-laced methamphetamine pills to fund their powerful militia. Narcotics police have made numerous high-profile seizures in a crackdown on the main Wa drug route through northern Thailand. "So the traffickers have changed to the northeastern route" through Laos, the police chief added. Myanmar's central government, which is trying to forge a fragile peace with myriad ethnic militias, has little ability or appetite to confront the Wa. Vigils were held in London and Malta for a Maltese journalist who was killed by a car bomb on Monday October 16. Daphne Caruana Galizia of the Running Commentary blog, had investigated corruption in Malta as part of the Panama Papers investigation. This video shows mourners in Malta This video shows mourners in Malta staging a candlelit procession from Sliema to St Julians, beginning on Tower Road corner. Caruana Galizia, 53, was hailed as a one-woman WikiLeaks by Politico with a recent investigation alleging that Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscats wife had received $1 million from the daughter of Azerbaijans president. Muscat, and his wife, have denied the claims and the prime minister condemned Caruana Galizias killing as a spiteful attack on a citizen and freedom of expression in a tweet Credit: Facebook/John B Dougall via Storyful Conservationists can be 'cautiously optimistic' about the prospect of sustainable subsistence hunting by Amazonian communities.Human exploitation of natural resources is a key driver of global biodiversity loss. In tropical forests, overhunting has been implicated in widespread local species extinction and the creation of 'empty forests'. But a new study reveals that subsistence hunters from small communities in large areas of intact forest and with access to healthy fish stocks do not appear to be emptying their forests. Credit: University of East Anglia Conservationists can be "cautiously optimistic" about the prospect of sustainable subsistence hunting by Amazonian communities - according to new research from the University of East Anglia. Human exploitation of natural resources is a key driver of global biodiversity loss. In tropical forests, overhunting has been implicated in widespread local species extinction and the creation of 'empty forests'. But a new study published today in PLOS ONE reveals that subsistence hunters from small communities in large areas of intact forest and with access to healthy fish stocks do not appear to be emptying their forests. This finding only rings true for smaller species and those less sensitive to hunting pressure, however. Numbers of large primates and other large mammals were still found to be depleted near to communities. Lead author Dr Mark Abrahams, from UEA's School of Environmental Sciences, said: "Understanding the impacts of subsistence hunting in tropical forests is crucial not only to safeguard the world's most biodiverse terrestrial ecosystems, but also to secure a sustainable future for forest-dependent communities." The research team used novel camera trapping and interview methods to study species in the Amazon. Working with 60 Amazonian communities in the Jurua and Uatuma regions of Amazonas, Brazil, they deployed 383 motion-activated camera traps and conducted 78 interviews with subsistence hunters. Hiking for miles through trackless forests to deploy cameras at varying distances from communities, the study sought to understand which species are depleted by hunting and where. Key findings: - Large-bodied species and species forming large groups, are depleted near Amazonian communities. - The biomass of the entire species assemblage is greatly reduced close to Amazonian towns. - Subsistence hunting did not empty the forest of game vertebrates in the study regions, which retain high forest cover, sources of alternative protein and low human population densities. The camera trap and interview data showed that large-bodied species and species forming large groups, such as white lipped peccaries, woolly monkeys and tapirs, are indeed depleted near to communities. Smaller species and those less sensitive to hunting pressure, did not show evidence of depletion near to communities. By contrast, the biomass of the entire species assemblage was greatly reduced close to towns. Dr Abrahams said: "Our results imply that conservationists can be cautiously optimistic about the prospect of sustainable subsistence hunting by Amazonian communities. Small communities, living in large areas of intact forest and with access to healthy stocks of fish, do not appear to be emptying their forests. "But this is clearly no excuse for complacency. Large primates and large ungulates, which are depleted by hunting, play vital ecological roles such as seed dispersal and are crucial to the health of the forest. "Also, areas where human populations are larger, fish stocks are less abundant and remaining forest cover is less extensive, are likely to experience a far more severe depletion of game animals." Prof Carlos Peres, also from UEA's School of Environmental Sciences, said: "Our analysis shows that the sustainability of protein acquisition in tropical forests is primarily governed by the spatial context of mortality sinks, human population density, and availability of alternative protein." More information: 'Measuring local depletion of terrestrial game vertebrates by central-place hunters in rural Amazonia' is published in the journal PLOS ONE on 17 October, 2017. Journal information: PLoS ONE Uber board member Arianna Huffington, speaking at the WSJD Live conference in California, said that a "cult of the top performer" led to burnout and bad behavior at the world's leading smartphone-summoned ride service Uber board member Arianna Huffington blamed a "burnout culture" for fueling sexism at the world's leading smartphone-summoned ride sharing service. Huffington credited Uber co-founder and ousted boss Travis Kalanick with driving the startup to a nearly $70 billion valuation. However new chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi is the steady hand needed now on the wheel, Huffington said late Monday at the Wall Street Journal D.Live conference in Laguna Beach, California. "I totally believe that going forward, we will end the cult of the top performer," Huffington said in an on-stage interview at the event. "Why did Harvey Weinstein last that long?" she asked rhetorically, referring to the front-page Hollywood sexual abuse scandal. "The cult of someone who delivers results," she said, a cult that is also "prevalent" in Silicon Valley. Uber launched an "urgent investigation" early this year after an engineer who worked at the company until late 2016 alleged that her manager made sexual advances shortly after she joined. She wrote in a blog post that she complained to more senior managers and the company's human resources department, but was told that it was the man's "first offense" and that they wouldn't feel comfortable punishing a "high performer." The woman said she met other female Uber engineers who said they had experienced similar harassment. Ousted Uber CEO Travis Kalanickhere at a 2016 Oscar partyretains a seat on the company board of directors Uber hired former attorney general Eric Holder to review workplace conditions after the allegations. The probe resulted in firings and an outline for needed changes. War talk Huffington, a wealthy businesswoman, author, and co-founder of the Huffington Post news site, said that when she joined the Uber board in early 2016 the startup "worshipped at the altar of hyper-growth," with stellar results absolving bad behavior. Cultural aspects at Uber that need changing include finding bonding activities other than boozing, she said. Uber also set out to cut back combative references for work talk, such as "One throat to choke." "How about one person to hold responsible for something?" Huffington said, "My point is, there is a lot of 'Art of War' language." As a symbolic gesture, Uber renamed its "war room" headquarters the "peace room," Huffington said. She described the atmosphere at Uber now as "crazy," but in a good way. Uber has high hopes for its new CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, the former boss at Expedia $100 billion gorilla Uber hired Expedia boss Dara Khosrowshahi as its new chief executive in August, in the hopes he can steer the ride-sharing service away from the string of controversies it has faced in the past year. "Dara has the perfect balance of talents, including being unflappable," Huffington said. Khosrowshahi is also trimming expensive programs as he prepares Uber for a stock market debut by 2019, according to Huffington. The new CEO's challenges include conflicts with regulators and taxi operators, a cut-throat company culture, and board members feuding with investors over Kalanick. Uber's board of directors early this month approved a plan that reins in the influence of Kalanickwho retains a seat on the boardand opens the door to a colossal investment by Japanese telecommunications giant SoftBank. "SoftBank is the $100 billion gorilla in the ride-sharing industry," Huffington said, referring to the dizzying amount the Japanese financial giant has for investing. "They are also investing in our competitors." 2017 AFP Developed by the Institute of Integrated Systems in Bochum, the radar sensor is no bigger than this. Credit: Roberto Schirdewahn Engineers from University Alliance Ruhr have developed novel signal processing methods for imaging and material characterisation with the aid of radar. Their long-term objective is to use these techniques in combination with radar-based localisation of objects. Their vision is a flying platform capable of generating a three-dimensional representation of its surroundings. The technology might be, for example, useful for finding out what firefighters might encounter behind clouds of smoke in a burning building. To this end, researchers from Ruhr-Universitat Bochum (RUB) and the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) have joined forces with other institutions under the umbrella of the collaborative research centre/transregio 196 "Marie," short for "Mobile Material Characterisation and Localisation by Electromagnetic Sensing." A report has been published in Rubin, Bochum's science magazine. In principal, the same measurement technique should be suitable for material characterisation as well as localisation. However, it is not yet being used simultaneously for both. The measurement principle is as follows: a radar emits electromagnetic waves that are reflected by objects. Broadly speaking, it is possible to calculate how far away an object is located based on the delay between the transmitted and returning signals. Additionally, the returning waves provide even more information. The strength of the reflected signal is determined by the size of the object, by its shape, and by its material properties. A material parameter, the so-called relative permittivity, describes a material's response to an electromagnetic field. Calculating the relative permittivity, researchers can thus figure out what kind of material the object is made of. Real-time analysis possible Converting a radar signal into an informative image requires huge computational cost. The recorded data can be compared to those of a camera that lacks a lens for focusing. Focusing is subsequently carried out at the computer. Dr Jan Barowski has developed algorithms for this process during his PhD research at the Institute of Microwave Systems in Bochum, headed by Prof Dr Ilona Rolfes. "When I first started out, such corrections used to take us ten hours," the engineer says. Today, the analysis is performed in real time via a laptop graphics card. Not only do Barowski's algorithms take care of focusing, but they also eliminate systemic measurement errors from the data. Under controlled lab conditions, the current system is able to determine the position of an object and that it is made of a different material than, for example, the surface on which it lies. In the next step, the engineers intend to enable the system to recognise what the object actually is. They already have the capability of specifying the relative permittivity of synthetic materials, even though they cannot yet distinguish between different synthetics. The project partners intend to gradually optimise the system for application under realistic conditions. Adityanath said that his government has been working towards the revival of heritage structures in the state. By India Today Web Desk: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today said that BJP MLA Sangeet Som's comments on Taj Mahal are his personal opinion and the state government doesn't endorse them. Adityanath said that his government has been working towards the revival of heritage structures in the state. He said that every historic monument is being considered by the government for tourism. advertisement The chief minister is all set to visit Agra on October 26. He will also visit the Taj Mahal and attend a programme related to tourism. Taj Mahal became the centre of controversy after BJP MLA Som on Monday said that it was built by a traitor and is a blot on Indian culture. Som had said that the creator of Taj Mahal had imprisoned his father and even wanted to wipe out Hindus. When asked about his thoughts on Owaisi and SP leader Azam Khan's rebuttal to Sangeet Som's statement, Adityanath said that it was unfortunate that their comments are being taken seriously. WHO SAID WHAT Som's comment attracted reactions from leaders across the political spectrum. Hyderabad MP and chief of AIMIM, Asaduddin Owaisi was the first to react on the comments made by Som. Owaisi in his response to the comments asked if Prime Minister Narendra Modi will now ban tourists from visiting the monument. He asked Som if was going to ask PM Modi to not hoist the national flag on the Red Fort. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too reacted sharply to the comments made by Som. She said that the day is not far when the BJP will try to change the country's name. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan today said that Parliament and Rashtrapati Bhawan too should be demolished as they are symbols of slavery. --- ENDS --- Credit: Monash University Conifers that were living at the South Pole show an extreme adaptation to forest fires. Until now, the origin of this ability has been unknown from the fossil record. But scientists have now found fossil evidence showing that many tree species from 100 million years ago were not only protected from fire, but they may have required fire to reproduce during one of Earth's most intense greenhouse periods. This was also a time of extreme fire risk around the globe. "In Australia, much of the flora is highly flammable, and have evolved strategies to cope," said Dr Chris Mays, a researcher at the Monash School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment, and lead author of a study published recently in Geology. "But some modern conifer trees in Australia, as well as Africa, North America and along the Mediterranean, have an advanced adaptation to fire." In these areas, conifers have seed cones in which their mature seeds are kept stored for long periods in anticipation of a forest fire. "The seeds can be stored for many years within these cones, sealed by resin which melts at high temperature, so that the seeds can be spread onto the fertile ground after a fire," Dr Mays said. This ensures the seeds are released: when seed-eating animals have been forced out of the area they land directly on fertile soil without lots of leaf litter, and without the shadow of canopy leaves, which would have been burnt in the fire. "Until now, the evolutionary origin of this ability has been largely unknown and the fossils have not provided many clues," said Dr Mays. "Our study identified fossils from fire-adapted seed cones in several places on Earth, but all come from the same interval, about 100 million years old during an extreme global greenhouse event." Using an imaging technology called neutron tomography, similar to a hospital X-ray but using neutrons instead of X-rays, the fossil cones were found to contain canals filled with fossil resin, or 'amber'. This was done at Australia's research nuclear reactor at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation in Lucas Heights, NSW. "If it had not been for the greenhouse periods of the past, we would not have many of the fire-adapted plants we see around the world today," Dr may said. One hundred million years ago, there was a very strong greenhouse effect on Earth. The average temperature was about six degrees warmer than today and the air contained much more oxygen and carbon dioxide. Forests covered large parts of every continent, even in the polar regions, and the high oxygen levels in the air made all plants highly flammable, so fires were far more common than in the modern world. Fossil layers from this time show sediments with a large amount of burnt, or charcoalified, plants which testifies to an intensely fiery time. The extreme environment during this period was a major driver of evolutionary change, and this was a key time for the evolution of modern fire-adapted ecosystems. More information: Chris Mays et al. Polar wildfires and conifer serotiny during the Cretaceous global hothouse, Geology (2017). DOI: 10.1130/G39453.1 Journal information: Geology Terence Barry, senior scientist in animal science, shows one of many tanks of fish being studied at the Water Science and Engineering Laboratory, where he researches aquaculture and the stress response in fish. Credit: Jeff Miller Scientists have known for years that when some fish sense predators eating members of their species, they try to depart the scene of the crime and swim toward safer waters. This sensible behavior is exactly what evolution would be expected to produce. Now, a group at the University of WisconsinMadison has shown a second, equally sensible result of the evolutionary pressure called predation: faster growth among the surviving fish. Large fish, explains lab director Terence Barry, senior scientist in animal sciences at the UW, are harder for the predator to eat. The discovery, now published online in the Journal of Fish Biology resulted from Barry's attempt to make the best of a bad situation. "I was trying a new method to raise larval yellow perch, which are hard to rear," he says, "and I had 2,000 small, 2-gram fish in the tank. My perch were ready to sell, but about half had a spinal deformity, probably due to a nutritional deficiency, and I decided to feed these fish to a couple of big walleyes we were raising." So far, the process was standard in the field of aquaculture, where fish sales and finding food for predatory fish are a matter of course. What happened next was not standard at all, Barry says. "A student came to me three weeks later (and said), 'Did you see those fish?' To the naked eye, the perch that were not eaten were about twice as big as expected. I thought, 'What's going on here?'" A blood sample is drawn from a yellow perch. Credit: Jeff Miller Pakou Yang, who was in the lab as part of the university's PEOPLE Program, took on the experiment. In one test, the odors from predatory walleye eating yellow perch flowed into another tank containing yellow perch fingerlingsand these fish grew faster. The cause had to be something in the water, Barry says, "but it was not just coming from the walleye themselves, since the fast growth only happened when walleye were eating perch each day and the perch and the walleye shared their water supply." Further investigation showed that the cause was a pheromone that might be released from the perch skin, the feces or urine of the walleye, or even stress hormones that leaked from the perch into the water. Pheromones are chemicals that cause specific behavioral changes, usually at low doses, in organisms that sense them. Barry, who grew up in Madison, has a B.S. in zoology and a Ph.D. in endocrinology from UWMadison. He served in the Peace Corps in the western Pacific nation of Samoa and raised yellow perch at his fish farm in Poy Sippi, Wisconsin, for 10 years. The finding builds on the picture of the water-borne "alarm substances" that are released during predation. Not only could they cause prey fish to scatter and, in the case of one species of carp, cause them to grow too wide to fit a predator's mouth. Now the substance was causing faster growth in length and weight. "Nobody had shown that the fish would grow big, and it was awesome, but still, it was just one experiment," Barry says, "so we set up five treatments and saw more or less the exact same thing." Caroline Barry, a research specialist in animal science, takes a sample from a yellow perch as postdoctoral researcher Paul Hoppe looks on. Credit: Jeff Miller Perch growth accelerated even if the walleye ate fathead minnows, but the phenomenon did not appear in walleye preyed upon by northern pike, perhaps because walleye are less often victims of predators than perch. The experiments do not prove the evolutionary basis for the phenomenon, but fleeing and growing too large for a predator both make sense in terms of species survival, Barry says. "In water, the surviving perch grow twice as fast, because they are smelling something that signals the presence of predators," Barry says. "We do know that chemical communication is widespread in fish. When a male smells a female that is ready to spawn, it gets a surge in the pituitary hormone gonadotropin, which binds to the testes, causing them to produce testosterone, leading to sperm production. We think a similar thing may be going on here where the growth-promoting pheromone causes a surge in pituitary growth hormone. Barry says yellow perch grow too slowly to interest most fish farms but, "if we can speed up the growth, it's got a lot of commercial potential." He has filed a disclosure with the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation covering the use of pheromones to increase fish growth; a patent filing is expected. Barry, Paul Hoppe, a Ph.D. student in reproductive endocrinology, and colleagues hypothesize that chondroitin sulfate may be the chemical signal. Finding this kind of stimulus-response reaction is satisfying, since the response makes so much sense, Barry says. "We were not looking for this phenomenon, but we do know that underwater, chemicals travel further than light. Fish can't survive without chemical communication." Saturn looms in the foreground of this mosaic of Cassini images, taken by the spacecraft on May 28, 2017. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Space Science Institute NASA's Cassini spacecraft ended its journey on Sept. 15 with an intentional plunge into the atmosphere of Saturn, but analysis continues on the mountain of data the spacecraft sent during its long life. Some of the Cassini team's freshest insights were presented during a news conference today at the American Astronomical Society Division for Planetary Science meeting in Provo, Utah. Among the findings being shared: Views from Cassini's Grand Finale show the beauty of the rings and demonstrate processes similar to those that form planets. During Cassini's final months, the spacecraft's cameras captured views from within the gap between the planet and the rings, and the mission is releasing two new image mosaics showing the rings from that unique perspective. One view, from May 28, 2017, shows the rings emerging from behind the planet's hazy limb, while the planet itself is adorned with ring shadows. The other mosaic shows a panoramic view outward across the ringscape. Researchers also shared a new movie of Saturn's auroras in ultraviolet light that represents the final such view from the spacecraft's Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrometer. In addition, Cassini participating scientist and imaging team associate Matt Tiscareno of SETI Institute, Mountain View, California, provided new details about the whimsically named ring features called propellers, which are wakes in the rings created by small, unseen moonlets. The propellers are analogous to baby planets forming in disks around young stars, as they obey similar physical processes. Cassini obtained this panoramic view of Saturn's rings on Sept. 9, 2017, just minutes after it passed through the ring plane. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Space Science Institute Tiscareno said that, in its last images of the rings (taken the day before the spacecraft's plunge into Saturn), Cassini successfully imaged all six of the propellers whose orbits were being tracked over the last several years of the mission. These objects are named for famous aviators: Bleriot, Earhart, Santos-Dumont, Sikorsky, Post and Quimby. During its Ring-Grazing Orbitsthe four months of close orbits that preceeded the mission's Grand FinaleCassini obtained images showing swarms of smaller propellers, astounding Tiscareno and colleagues. Cassini's electronic "nose" hit the jackpot, finding many surprises as it sniffed the gases in the previously unexplored space between the planet and the rings. The spacecraft's Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer (INMS) returned a host of first-ever direct measurements of the components in Saturn's upper atmosphere, which stretches almost to the rings. From these observations, the team sees evidence that molecules from the rings are raining down onto the atmosphere. This influx of material from the rings was expected, but INMS data show hints of ingredients more complex than just water, which makes up the bulk of the rings' composition. In particular, the instrument detected methane, a volatile molecule that scientists would not expect to be abundant in the rings or found so high in Saturn's atmosphere. Cassini participating scientist and INMS team associate Mark Perry from the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, says the team is busy analyzing data from the final, lowest-altitude passes, which show even more complexity and variability. The INMS observations complement those by Cassini's Cosmic Dust Analyzer instrument, which sampled solid particles in the gap during the Grand Finale. Researchers continue trying to wrangle insights about the length of the planet's day from measurements of Saturn's magnetic field. Michele Dougherty, leader of Cassini's Magnetometer team from Imperial College London, provided an update on the team's progress in trying to determine whether Saturn's magnetic field has a detectable tilt. One aim of their work is to determine the precise length of time for the planet's internal rotation, which would help researchers nail down the true length of the planet's day. Dougherty says the sensitivity of Cassini's magnetic field measurements nearly quadrupled over the course of the spacecraft's 22 Grand Finale orbitsmeaning that, if the tilt of Saturn's field is greater than 0.016 degrees, researchers should be able to detect it. An extremely small tilt is challenging to explain with scientists' current understanding of how planetary magnetic fields are generated, thus suggesting more sophisticated dynamics inside Saturn. New theoretical research explains the forces that keep Saturn's rings from spreading out and dispersing. It turns out to be a group effort. Key among the questions scientists hope to answer using data from Cassini are the age and origins of the rings. Theoretical modeling has shown that, without forces to confine them, the rings would spread out over hundreds of millions of yearsmuch younger than Saturn itself. This spreading happens because faster-moving particles that orbit closer to Saturn occasionally collide with slower particles on slightly farther-out orbits. When this happens, some momentum from the faster particles is transferred to the slower particles, speeding the latter up in their orbit and causing them to move farther outward. The inverse happens to the faster, inner particles. Cassini used its Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrograph to capture this final view of ultraviolet auroral emissions in Saturn's north polar region on Sept. 14, 2017. Credit: NASA/JPL/Univ. Colorado/Univ. Liege-LPAP Previous research had shown that gravitational tugs from the moon Mimas are solely responsible for halting the outward spread of Saturn's B ringthat ring's outer edge is defined by the dark region known as the Cassini Division. Ring scientists had thought the small moon Janus was responsible for confining the outer edge of the A ring. But a new modeling study led by Radwan Tajeddine of Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, shows that the A ring's outward creep is kept in check by a confederation of moons, including Pan, Atlas, Prometheus, Pandora, Janus, Epimetheus and Mimas. The insight was made possible by Cassini, which provided scientists with high-resolution views of intricate waves in the rings, along with precise determinations of the masses of Saturn's moons. Analysis of these data led Tajeddine and colleagues to an understanding that a cumulative effect of waves from all these moons damps the outward transfer of momentum in the A ring and confines its edge. Tajeddine will present these results in a poster at the DPS meeting, and they will be published Wednesday in the Astrophysical Journal. "There are whole careers to be forged in the analysis of data from Cassini," said Linda Spilker, the mission's project scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California. "In a sense, the work has only just begun." More information: More information about Cassini: www.nasa.gov/cassini Journal information: Astrophysical Journal The harlequin ladybird, officially known as Harmonia axyridis, was widely introduced across continental Europe to limit the population of pest insects. In Britain, harlquins arrived primarily by spread from mainland Europe, and it is now very common and widespread over most of England and Wales. A new Insect Conservation and Diversity study shows a clear decrease in the numbers of a native ladybird speciesthe 2-spot ladybird (Adalia bipunctataon lime trees over an 11 year period in which the harlequin invaded England. Harlequin ladybirds accounted for up to 70% of all the ladybirds recorded on the trees. They are known to feed on 2-spots at times, and this predation may be an important driver of the changes observed. "This long-term field study shows just how numerous harlequin ladybirds have become," said co-author Dr. Peter Brown, of Anglia Ruskin University, in the UK. "The 2-spot used to be one of our most abundant ladybird species but is now quite tricky to find. The study shows clear changes in the ladybird community as a result of the harlequin's dominance." More information: Peter M. J. Brown et al, Native ladybird decline caused by the invasive harlequin ladybird Harmonia axyridis : evidence from a long-term field study, Insect Conservation and Diversity (2017). DOI: 10.1111/icad.12266 Provided by Wiley The orange day-lily is an alien species in Central Europe and was introduced over a distance of around 10,000 km from East Asia. Credit: Franz Essl, University of Vienna Around the globe, an increasing number of plant and animal species are introduced into new regions through human activity. However, the global patterns of their distribution are only poorly understood to date. Researchers at the Senckenberg and at the universities of Oldenburg and Vienna have now discovered that the spread of species can be convincingly explained by a combination of global trade flows and the species' original distribution. And, contrary to previous assumptions, the spread basically follows very simple laws. As a result of the globalization of trade and transport, in the past decades, tens of thousands of species have spread into regions where they were not originally at home. Potentially serious consequences of this include the displacement or extinction of native species and the spread of health risks. Even though trade flows are known to represent an important path for the introduction of invasive species, this fact alone is not enough to explain the observed distribution patterns of species. Scientists from Germany and Austria have examined the global spread of 1,380 exotic animal and plant species under consideration of the trade flows. "A clear pattern is apparent. A particularly large number of species originates in areas that are located at a distance of approximately 10,000 kilometers from the place of introduction. Contrary to this, the majority of the imported goods come from the immediate neighboring countries," explains Dr. Hanno Seebens of the Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Center. In order to study this apparent contradiction, the team developed a computer model that combines the international trade flows with the species' worldwide distribution. The model shows that short distances of less than 3,000 kilometers primarily serve the transport of species that already occur in the target country. On the other hand, non-native species are usually introduced over comparatively much longer distances. Here, the global patterns of the species' spread closely mirror the global trade flows. However, this only holds true when a species conquers new ground for the first time. Once an exotic species has gained a foothold outside its region of origin, it can also spread to new areas over short distances. The manner in which these 'new settlers' spread to new areas differs between various groups of plants and animals. Mammals, reptiles and fishes, in particular, often spread over rather short distances (3,000 kilometers). Plants and birds tend to invade regions at a much greater distance "The spread of non-native species is a complex process, and the data situation is far from complete. Therefore, it is even more astonishing that the spread can be explained with simple models," says Prof. Dr. Bernd Blasius of the Institute for Marine Chemistry and Biology (ICBM) at the University of Oldenburg. "This gives us reason to hope that in the future, the introduction of exotic species can be better understood and more efficiently contained with the aid of such models." Provided by Carl von Ossietzky Universitat Oldenburg A map modelling the geoid surface. The map shows how water elevation and distribution would change by removing the effects of tides and currents. Credit: European Space Agency The Earth's interior is still a mystery to us. While we have sent missions to probe the outer reaches of our Solar system, the deepest boreholes on Earth go down to only a few kilometres. The only way to learn what's going on deep inside our planet, in the core and the mantle, is by indirect methods. Many of us might have seen those beautiful pictures of our round, blue planet taken from space, but did you know that our planet actually looks like a bumpy potato? It has its own share of deformations, non-uniform gravity because of the unequal distribution of mass and occasionally, mountains and valleys created by the movements of tectonic plates. Considering that around three-fourths of our planet's surface is made up of oceans, these deformities affect the shape of the oceans too. If we removed the tides and currents from the oceans on the planet, they would settle onto a smoothly undulating shape called a geoid, rising wherever there is high gravity, and sinking where gravity is low, creating what are known as "geoid anomalies." These highs and lows are generated by uneven mass distribution within the deep Earth. One such point of low gravity is found just south of the Indian peninsula, called the Indian Ocean Geoid Low (IOGL). The geoid low spans a vast extent south of the Indian subcontinent, and is dominated by a significant low of minus 106 metres, or roughly 348 feet, south of Sri Lanka. "The existence of the Indian Ocean geoid low is one of the most outstanding problems in Earth Sciences," said Attreyee Ghosh, an assistant professor at the Centre for Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, in Bangalore, India. "It is the lowest geoid/gravity anomaly on Earth and so far no consensus existed regarding its source. It is remarkable as it means that there is some mass deficit in the deep mantle that's causing the low." "A low gravitational potential would mean that the ocean surface itself would go down," she said. "So, for a 100 meter (328 feet) geoid low the ocean surface would dip down by 100 meters at that region." In a recent study accepted for publication in Geophysical Research Letters, a journal of the American Geophysical Union, Ghosh and her colleagues, in collaboration with researchers from the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Germany, explored the reasons behind the mass deficit that is causing the geoid low. Several studies in the past have tried to explain this, most of them attributing it to a remnant of an earlier plate that dived into the Earth's mantle beneath another plate millions of years ago. However, there has been no convincing explanation of the sourceuntil now. In their study, the researchers used numerical models of mantle convectiona type of movement caused within a fluid where hotter and lighter material rise to the top and cooler and denser material sinks under the influence of gravity. To 'look' deep inside the Earth, they used seismic tomography models that use seismic waves to obtain a 3-dimensional picture of the Earth's interior. The study showed that lighter material (low density anomalies) in the upper to mid mantle below the IOGL seem to be responsible for the existence of the gravity low in this region. But what causes these low density anomalies? Mantle plumes, upwellings of abnormally hot rock within the Earth's mantle, are generally thought to be the reason behind such anomalies. But in this case, no known mantle plume exists in this part of the world. To explain this, the researchers had to investigate the neighbouring regions of the Indian Ocean geoid low. Interestingly, they found that there was hot material arising from the African large low-shear-velocity province (LLSVP) or the African superplume, that was getting deflected eastward and terminating at the base of the low density region beneath the Indian Ocean low. The deflection is possibly due to the fast motion of the Indian plate. "Most of the existing theories have tried to explain this negative anomaly with the help of cold, dense oceanic plates that sank into the mantle in the past," says Prof Ghosh. "Our study explains this low with hotter, lighter material stretching from a depth of 300 km, or 186 miles, up to ~900 km, or 559 miles, in the northern Indian Ocean, most likely stemming from the African superplume." This study is definitely a breakthrough in convincingly explaining the occurrence of the Indian Ocean Geoid Low. As part of future work, Prof. Ghosh and her colleagues would like to investigate the evolution of the geoid low from the past to the present using time-dependent mantle convection models. More information: Attreyee Ghosh et al. The Importance of Upper Mantle Heterogeneity in Generating the Indian Ocean Geoid Low, Geophysical Research Letters (2017). DOI: 10.1002/2017GL075392 Journal information: Geophysical Research Letters This story is republished courtesy of AGU Blogs (http://blogs.agu.org), a community of Earth and space science blogs, hosted by the American Geophysical Union. Read the original story here. Metallosphaera sedula. Credit: University of Vienna Scientists around Tetyana Milojevic from the Faculty of Chemistry at the University of Vienna are in search of unique biosignatures, which are left on synthetic extraterrestrial minerals by microbial activity. The biochemist and astrobiologist investigates these signatures at her own miniaturized "Mars farm" where she can observe interactions between the archaeon Metallosphaera sedula and Mars-like rocks. These microbes are capable of oxidizing and integrating metals into their metabolism. The original research was currently published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology. At the Department of Biophysical Chemistry at the University of Vienna, Tetyana Milojevic and her team have been operating a miniaturized "Mars farm" in order to simulate ancient and probably extinct microbial life based on gases and synthetically produced Martian regolith of diverse composition. The team investigates interactions between Metallosphaera sedula, a microbe that inhabits extreme environments, and different minerals which contain nutrients in form of metals. Metallosphaera sedula is a chemolithotroph, means being capable of metabolizing inorganic substances like iron, sulphur and uranium as well. To satisfy microbial nutritional fitness, the research team uses mineral mixtures that mimic the Martian regolith composition from different locations and historical periods of Mars: "JSC 1A" is mainly composed of palagonite a rock that was created by lava; "P-MRS" is rich in hydrated phyllosilicates; the sulfate containing "S-MRS," emerging from acidic times on Mars and the highly porous "MRS07/52" that consists of silicate and iron compounds and simulates sediments of the Martian surface. Synthetic Martian Regolith. Credit: University of Vienna "We were able to show that due to its metal oxidizing metabolic activity, when given an access to these Martian regolith simulants, M. sedula actively colonizes them, releases soluble metal ions into the leachate solution and alters their mineral surface leaving behind specific signatures of life, a 'fingerprint," so to say," explains Milojevic. The observed metabolic activity of M. sedula coupled to the release of free soluble metals can certainly pave the way to extraterrestrial biomining, a technique which extracts metals from ores, launching the biologically assisted exploitation of raw materials from asteroids, meteors and other celestial bodies. Using electron microscopy tools combined with analytical spectroscopy techniques, the researchers were able to examine the surface of bioprocessed Martian regolith simulants in detail. Cooperation with the workgroup of chemist Veronika Somoza from the Department of Physiological Chemistry was valuable to achieve these results. "The obtained results expand our knowledge of biogeochemical processes of possible life beyond earth, and provide specific indications for detection of biosignatures on extraterrestrial material a step further to prove potential extra-terrestrial life," says Tetyana Milojevic. Microspheroids. Credit: University of Vienna More information: Denise Kolbl et al. Exploring Fingerprints of the Extreme Thermoacidophile Metallosphaera sedula Grown on Synthetic Martian Regolith Materials as the Sole Energy Sources, Frontiers in Microbiology (2017). DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01918 Credit: CC0 Public Domain A new study linking paleoclimatologythe reconstruction of past global climateswith historical analysis by researchers at Yale and other institutions shows a link between environmental stress and its impact on the economy, political stability, and war-fighting capacity of ancient Egypt. The team of researchers examined the hydroclimatic and societal impacts in Egypt of a sequence of tropical and high-latitude volcanic eruptions spanning the past 2,500 years, as known from modern ice-core records. The team focused on the Ptolemaic dynasty of ancient Egypt (305-30 B.C.E.)a state formed in the aftermath of the campaigns of Alexander the Great, and famed for rulers such as Cleopatraas well as material and cultural achievements including the great Library and Lighthouse of Alexandria. Using an interdisciplinary approach that combined evidence from climate modelling of large 20th-century eruptions, annual measurements of Nile summer flood heights from the Islamic Nilometerthe longest-known human record of environmental variabilitybetween 622 and 1902, as well as descriptions of Nile flood quality in ancient papyri and inscriptions from the Ptolemaic era, the authors show how large volcanic eruptions impacted on Nile river flow, reducing the height of the agriculturally-critical summer flood. The findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, show that integrating evidence from historical writings with paleoclimate data can advance both our understanding of how the climate system functions, and how climatic changes impacted past human societies. "Ancient Egyptians depended almost exclusively on Nile summer flooding brought by the summer monsoon in east Africa to grow their crops. In years influenced by volcanic eruptions, Nile flooding was generally diminished, leading to social stress that could trigger unrest and have other political and economic consequences," says Joseph Manning, lead author on the paper and the William K. & Marilyn Milton Simpson Professor of History and Classics at Yale. This piece of papyrus from the mid-Third Century BCE describes a period of famine in Egypt that occurred when the Nile River failed to flood for several years in a row. It was collected from the Egyptian city of Edfu. Credit: Department of Papyrology, Institute of Archaeology, University of Warsaw The reason for reduced flooding of the Nile is because volcanic eruptions can disrupt the climate by injecting sulfurous gases into the stratosphere, says Francis Ludlow, the study's corresponding author. Ludlow is a climate historian who began collaborating with Manning as a postdoctoral fellow at Yale, and is now based in history in Trinity College, Dublin. These gases react to form aerosols that remain in the atmosphere in decreasing concentrations for one or two years, reflecting incoming solar radiation back to space. These volcanic aerosols can influence global hydroclimate. The reduction in surface temperatures can lead to reduced evaporation over waterbodies, and hence lessen rainfall. If the aerosols are dispersed primarily in the Northern Hemisphere, the greater cooling in this hemisphere can also diminish the summertime heating that drives the northward migration of monsoon winds over Africa up to the Ethiopian highlands where the Blue Nile is supplied with its summer floodwaters. Because the Ptolemaic era is one of ancient Egypt's most well-documented periods, the dates of major political events are known with some confidence, note the researchers, adding that what is often less clear from the ancient writings is what specific factors triggered events like revolts. The researchers were able to show a recurring close timing between such events and the dates of major volcanic eruptions. Knowledge of the historical context is essential to fully understanding how shocks from diminished Nile flooding acted to trigger revolts and constrain Ptolemaic war making, say the researchers, explaining that the shocks from poor Nile flooding would have occurred against a background of multiple socioeconomic and political difficulties that would have compounded the impacts of Nile variability. "Egypt and the Nile are very sensitive instruments for climate change, and Egypt provides a unique historical laboratory in which to study social vulnerability and response to abrupt volcanic shocks," says Manning. "Nile flood suppression from historical eruptions has been little studied, despite well documented Nile failures with severe social impacts coinciding with eruptions in 939, in 1783-1784 in Iceland, and 1912 in Alaska," he adds. "With volcanic eruption dates fixed precisely in time, we can see society in motion around them. This is the first time for ancient history that we can begin to talk about a dynamic understanding of society," says Manning. According to Manning, this research not only alters the perception of climatic changes on various scales, from short-term shocks to slower-moving, long-term changes, but it is also revolutionizing the understanding of human societies and how the forces of nature shaped them in the past. "The study is of particular importance for the current debate about climate change," says Manning. "It is very rare in science and history to have such strong and detailed evidence documenting how societies responded to climatic shocks in the past," says Jennifer Marlon, research scientist in the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, and a co-author on the study. The study reflects a significant advance in the integration of research among scientists and historians, and points to the need for more interdisciplinary scholarship to better document and analyze how humans have related and responded to past environmental changes, says Marlon. The researchers note that the study provides historical context for what is happening today and what may happen in the future and demonstrates that there is need for further investigation into the effects of climate change on modern societies worldwide. "There hasn't been a large eruption affecting the global climate system since Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991," says Manning. "We are living in a period where we are fairly quiescent in terms of large volcanic eruptions that are affecting climate. A lot of volcanoes erupt each year but they are not affecting the climate system on the scale of some past eruptions. Sooner or later we will experience a large volcanic eruption, and perhaps a cluster of them, that will act to exacerbate drought in sensitive parts of the world." More information: Joseph G. Manning et al, Volcanic suppression of Nile summer flooding triggers revolt and constrains interstate conflict in ancient Egypt, Nature Communications (2017). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-00957-y Journal information: Nature Communications A team of Saturn moon keeps Saturn's A ring from spreading. This image from NASA's Cassini mission clearly show the ring's density waves created by the small moons. The waves look like the grooves in a vinyl record. Credit: NASA For three decades, astronomers thought that only Saturn's moon Janus confined the planet's A ring - the largest and farthest of the visible rings. But after poring over NASA's Cassini mission data, Cornell astronomers now conclude that the teamwork of seven moons keeps this ring corralled. Without forces to hold the A ring in check, the ring would keep spreading out and ultimately disappear. "Cassini provided detail on the mass of Saturn's moons and the physical characteristics of the rings, so mathematically speaking, we concluded that the moon Janus alone cannot keep the rings from spreading out," said Radwan Tajeddine, a research associate in astronomy and lead author of the new research. "What Confines the Rings of Saturn?" is planned for publication Oct. 18 in the Astrophysical Journal. Tajeddine also will present this research in a poster at the American Astronomical Society's Division of Planetary Science meeting Oct. 17 in Provo, Utah. The scientists discovered that confinement of the A ring is shared among the moons Pan, Atlas, Prometheus, Pandora, Epimetheus, Mimas and Janus. "All of these moons work as a group to contain the ring. Together they are strong. United they stand," said Tajeddine. Cassini, which crashed into Saturn Sept. 15 at the mission's end, provided valuable data and detailed images of the planet's rings. The A ring looks similar to a vinyl record; it has "density waves" that resemble a record's grooves that are created by what astronomers call moon resonances. These resonance markers enabled scientists to deduce that the moons' gravitational influence help to slow and reduce the spreading ring's momentum. There are hundreds of density waves spread over the A ring that are generated by different moon resonances. Tajeddine compares it to tug of war with many knots along the gravitational rope. All of these gravitational pushes by these moons slow the ring down and pull momentum from it. So much momentum is lost by the time the ring gets to Janus that the forces create the edge of the A ring. Senior author Joe Burns, Ph.D. '66, the Irving Porter Church Professor of Engineering and professor of astronomy said: "This was exactly the sort of information we had hoped the Cassini mission would provide, and by doing so it has allowed us to solve this puzzle." Tajeddine said scientists are still not sure how the rings formed, but the mechanism of their confinement is finally understood. "That's the novelty of this idea. No one imagined that rings were held by shared responsibility," he said. "The density waves created by moons are beautiful to look at, but they actually participate in confining the ring," said Tajeddine. "Janus has been getting all of the credit for stopping the A ring, which has been unfair to the other moons." Sentinel-5P liftoff. Credit: ESAStephane Corvaja, 2017 Launched last week, Europe's Sentinel-5P satellite the first Copernicus mission dedicated to monitoring the air we breathe is in excellent health. The 820 kg satellite was lofted into orbit from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia last Friday on a Rockot. The satellite will use its state-of-the-art Tropomi instrument to monitor our atmosphere, mapping a multitude of gases that affect the air we breathe, our climate and human health. After separating from the upper stage at an orbital speed of around 27 000 km/h, Sentinel opened its three solar panels and began communicating with Earth. The first signal was received 93 min after launch as it passed over the Kiruna station in northern Sweden. Critical early days Contact meant that engineers at ESA's mission control in Darmstadt, Germany, could assume control of the satellite, and begin working around the clock to check its condition and start setting it up it for routine flight. The satellite is on solar power, its navigation and communication systems are operating as expected and it is fully functional after its raucous ride into space. "Sentinel-5P is in excellent health and we were a little ahead of schedule in the timeline for the first three days," says spacecraft operations manager Daniel Mesples. "That meant we could reduce our 24 hours-a-day schedule a little earlier than planned and declare that the initial phase was complete by Saturday evening. Sentinel-5P is lofted into orbit on a Rockot launcher from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia. Rockot is a converted SS-19 intercontinental ballistic missile, which was designed as a weapon during the early 1970s. Plesetsk is about 800 km northeast of Moscow and 200 km south of the city of Archangel. Credit: European Space Agency "As of today, we're back to working daytime hours. Everything is going very well." Preparing for the sniffing phase The good news means the satellite is ready for the next crucial phase: commissioning the Tropomi atmosphere sensor over the next six months. Once in service, it will map the entire planet every day for Europe's Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service air quality forecasts and for decision-making. It is the first Copernicus mission dedicated to monitoring our atmosphere. It follows a fleet of five other Sentinels already in orbit and delivering a wealth of information about our planet. The Sentinels make up the core of the space component of the EU's Copernicus environmental monitoring network. An EU flagship space initiative, Copernicus provides timely operational information on the world's land surfaces, oceans and atmosphere to support environmental and security policymaking, and meet the needs of citizens and service providers. "The satellite completed its initial critical orbital activities in just about 33 hours, a record, and this time there were no surprises," says Paolo Ferri, head of mission operations at ESA. "This is a testament to the quality of the satellite builders and the expertise of the mission control team, mixed with the necessary bit of luck. "Given the complexity of spaceflight and the factors that can't be fully predicted, we can't always count on this, but we are happy when it does happen." Stalin said that the funds allocated for celebrating Sanskrit week and promoting Hindi is way larger than what is being allocated for promotion of Tamil language and culture. By Pramod Madhav: DMK deputy chief, MK Stalin lashed out at the Center for attempting to impose Hindi and Sanskrit in the state and blamed EPS for downplaying the situation. "Central government is pushing policies like NEET examination, Navodhaya schools a part of their grand plan towards digesting the state rights over education through incremental encroachment, thereby promote centralisation of the education," he complained. advertisement Stalin said that the funds allocated for celebrating Sanskrit week and promoting Hindi is way larger than what is being allocated for promotion of Tamil language and culture. Stalin alleged that Tamil Nadu state government which is supposed to play the role of protecting the state's culture had turned into 'corrupt fort guards', allowing the enemy free passage after acquiring a bribe. He stated the implementation of '3 language policy' would pose serious danger to the mother tongue. "It is ironic to know that a party with Perarignar Anna's name has chosen to adopt a slavish attitude in the war against Hindi imposition and has indeed chosen to play the role of the corrupt fort guards who ensure free passage to the enemies", blasted Stalin. The deputy chief's remarks are considered noteworthy as no strong reply has come from Chief Minister Palaniswami or Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam who apparently seem to deviate from the policies of former CM and AIADMK chief Jayalalitha's policy on language. In fact, when Jayalalithaa was able to acquire exemption from NEET, EPS government failed to do so. Furthermore, the unexplained manner in which Keezhadi archeological site in Madurai was hurriedly closed also has raised the negative sentiment of the people from the state against Center which is supposedly helping DMK in raising the cultural emotions. --- ENDS --- (Left) Photo of a natural spider web (by D. Krushinsky), along with illustrations of spider web-structured acoustic metamaterials (center), and figures of their acoustic dispersion and transmission spectra (right). Credit: Krushynska et al. 2017 IOP Publishing (Phys.org)Researchers have demonstrated that the geometry of a natural spider web can be used to design new structures that address one of the biggest challenges in sound control: reducing low-frequency noise, which is the second most widespread environmental problem in Europe after air pollution. The researchers, Anastasiia Krushynska and Federico Bosia at the University of Torino; Marco Miniaci of the University of Le Havre; and Nicola Pugno at the University of Trento, Queen Mary University of London, and Italian Space Agency, propose a new approach to this problem in a recent issue of the New Journal of Physics. "This work provides a new promising approach to obtain low-frequency noise attenuation," Pugno told Phys.org. "The strategy is based on the design of acoustic metamaterials, which combine the advantages of a spider web-like geometry and the space-coiling approach of labyrinthine channels. This structure also provides a simple and reliable way to introduce tunability in sound manipulation, which is highly desirable for practical applications." As low-frequency sounds are characterized by long wavelengths, shielding these acoustic waves typically requires very thick, heavy structures that are expensive and impractical for most applications. An alternative approach is to use recently developed metamaterials. Whereas traditional acoustic barriers rely on the composition and thickness of the material to manipulate sound, metamaterials do this with their intricate subwavelength-scale structure. As a result, metamaterials can be very thin, yet may still effectively reduce and manipulate low-frequency sounds. In the new study, the researchers based their design on a new concept called labyrinthine metamaterials or "space coils," first proposed a few years ago. Labyrinthine metamaterials consist of layers of folded zig-zag channels rotated relative to each other, giving them a maze-like appearance. One such labyrinthine metamaterial is configured in the form of a spider web. The authors of the current study recently showed that this geometry is particularly efficient in attenuating (or reducing the intensity of) elastic waves. Now in their new study, the researchers modified the previously proposed labyrinthine metamaterial design by adding a square frame, so that the resulting structure resembles a conventional spider web, and showed that this simple modification creates air cavities that allow for variation in the widths of each channel in the web. By controlling the channel widths, the researchers showed that it is possible to tune the metamaterial's acoustic properties, including the way in which it disperses and reflects sound waves. The researchers expect that the spider-web-structured metamaterial, which is designed to be made of aluminum, can be easily manufactured, making it potentially useful for a wide variety of applications that involve low-frequency sound manipulation. "Though similar geometries have shown promise for the attenuation of low-frequency vibrations, the developed metamaterials cannot be applied directly to seismic shielding, since they manipulate acoustic (airborne) and not elastic waves," Pugno explained. "Their applications include the control of low-frequency sound and noise isolation that remain challenging with traditional approaches, as well as transformation acoustics and sound focusing, such as in concert halls." More information: A. O. Krushynska, F. Bosia, M. Miniaci, and N. M. Pugno. "Spider web-structured labyrinthine acoustic metamaterials for low-frequency sound control." New Journal of Physics. DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630 Journal information: New Journal of Physics 2017 Phys.org University of Delaware researchers and industry partners have developed a new method for constructing offshore wind farms. Pictured here is the first U.S. offshore wind farm located about 3.8 miles from Block Island, Rhode Island. Credit: University of Delaware Working closely with industry partners, University of Delaware researchers have developed a new method for constructing offshore wind farms and proven that it is cheaper, faster and could make possible offshore wind deployment at a scale and pace able to keep up with the region's scheduled retirements of nuclear and coal-fired power plants. The researchers calculated that their innovative process will cost up to $1.6 billion less per project than conventional approaches and take half the construction time. "In planning for offshore wind power, the big question is how we generate electricity cost-competitively, and at a scale that is both a relevant replacement for aging power plants and also applicable to climate change," said the project's principal investigator, Willett Kempton, professor in the College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment (CEOE). "We're the first people who have shown the engineering details, step-by-step, how to achieve that." The key insight that allowed Kempton's team to make such considerable optimizations in cost and deployment speed was that the entire structure, from seafloor mounting to the top of the turbine, can be assembled in one piece in port, moved as a unit, and in one step placed into the sea floor. It may seem like a simple idea, but it was by no means obvious that it would work with existing equipment until completing the detailed engineering and cost analysis. The reference design used 10-megawatt turbines with support structures, together standing twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty and weighing 2500 metric tons, the equivalent of 183 semi tractor-trailers. Figuring out how to build and move them around in port was the final hurdle surmounted in the five-year study's new construction method. "Instead of today's method, carrying out parts separately and individually assembling each in the ocean, we have an assembly line on shore," Kempton said. "We spend more money in port, but we spend far less money at sea." Windfarm off Rhode Island. Credit: University of Delaware In addition to cost savings, there are non-monetary benefits: shifting more of the assembly to land enables construction to proceed regardless of the weather and reduces time at sea from three days to 10 hours for each turbine installed. Integral to the method is to anchor the turbines by suctioning large buckets to the seafloor rather than pounding in long cylinders of steel, called piles. This also means that the foundation doesn't penetrate as deeply into the seafloor, which reduces costs for everything from the attachment process to the surveying required in advance. And without pile driving noise, installation has no acoustic impact on marine mammals. The UD team members included Kempton and CEOE colleagues John Madsen, a continental shelf geologist, and Jeremy Firestone, a wind power policy expert, as well as mechanical engineer David Burris. The team began with a dozen possible design solutions, which they whittled down to four construction scenarios worth evaluating for detailed engineering and cost. To assess the different approaches, the team designed a hypothetical 1-gigawatt wind farm in the Delaware Wind Energy Area off Rehoboth Beach, Del., using the port near Delaware City (now an abandoned chemical site and an operating refinery). One gigawatt is the size of the largest nuclear power generators; the power from each offshore development this size would power 300,000 houses. "Delaware City is one of only a handful of ports on the East Coast that actually could support this kind of work in the future, at scale, although it would need some upgrades first," said Kempton. Madsen's assessment of seafloors showed the new approach could be effective from Cape Hatteras, North Carolina to Massachusetts, and that it has the potential to work elsewhere after similar geological evaluation. Burris' research on turbine bearing wear and failure led the team to conclude that transporting turbines with installed blades would reduce lifetime. Transport with attached blades is also unstable. Instead, the researchers developed a mounting for transport and a method to attaching the blades in place at sea. Collaborating with active commercial partners provided much-needed industry expertise and practical knowledge that comes from working directly in the field, Kempton said. "We knew we had to do that to be realistic," Kempton said, adding that the cooperative effort with experienced partners gave their results added credibility to the wind energy industry. Food fraud is everywhere. In the aftermath of the horsemeat scandal in Europe, and with cases reported around the world, including in Canada, awareness is high. Dalhousie University recently released a study on food fraud and the results were surprising: A whopping 63 per cent of Canadians are generally concerned about food fraud. Worse still, more than 40 per cent of Canadians feel they have been victims of food fraud already. These are alarming results that can't be ignored. Food fraud can take many forms. It can include adulterationsubstituting one ingredient with a much cheaper oneor misrepresentation, which may include selling a product as organic when it is not. Canadian food fraud cases abound Food categories that are more vulnerable to food fraud are fish, seafood, liquids, spices, fruits, vegetables and meat products. Canada has seen its share of cases in recent months, one of the most notable ones is Mucci Farms in southwestern Ontario, near the tip of Lake Erie. The company was fined $1.5 million for selling Mexican tomatoes as a product of Canada. Mucci Farms denies that the labelling was intentional and faults their computer system. Other cases have emerged through whistleblowers trying to draw attention to food fraud. Cericola Farms, one of the largest poultry processors in the country, was charged with fraud last year over allegations of organic mislabelling. The number of cases is adding up. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has received over 40 complaints in 2016 and industry observers expect that number to increase in 2017. Serious health and economic risks Some may believe that food fraud is a victimless crime. This is not so. What is at stake is the entire food economy. For any food business to grow and offer high-quality food products, it requires consumer trust. If trust is lost then everything the industry is trying to accomplish will become more challenging. Why would consumers pay more for a product they may deem fraudulent? The majority of food companies are ethically sound, but you only need a few cases to damage the reputation of an entire industry. Most importantly, the Dalhousie study suggests that consumers with allergies or intolerances to particular foods are likely to feel more vulnerable than other consumers when thinking of food fraud. Consequently, food fraud is as much a socioeconomic issue as it is one of public health. Technology a partial solution Grocers have made recent investments in blockchain technologies that provide a tool to detect products that may pose as counterfeit. But these measures can only do so much. Companies can't really report fraudulent rivals for fear of retaliationfood companies denouncing fraudulent cases are themselves accused of food fraud. They can't win. Regulators would have to sample-test everything, which would be operationally impractical and, frankly, impossible. Public regulators have been aware of the issue for quite some time but have struggled to find any solutions to address the issue. A few provinces, including Ontario, have created provincewide committees on food integrity to work with industry in finding fraudulent cases. However, their work will take a while before we see anything new. Exercise caution Meanwhile, consumers should shop for food and visit restaurants with extreme prejudice. Consumers should look for consistencies in pricing and quality. If a food product is much cheaper at one outlet, perhaps the deal is too good to be true. Consumers should also ask pointed questions about procurement strategies to retailers and restaurant operators to make the supply chain more transparent to them. But humans are humans and food fraud has been going on for more than 2,000 years. The first known reported cases go back to the Roman Empire when suspicions around adulterated wines and oils were prevalent. Today, however, we have technologies allowing us to detect fraudulent behaviour. Companies and research centres from around the world are currently developing portable technologies that allow consumers themselves to validate the content of food labels. Imagine testing your own products at home to see if that apple is really from Ontario or that olive oil is really from Italy. The technology exists, but costs are prohibitive. Some of these devices can cost more than $200,000. One day though, consumers empowered by these technologies will become the most powerful regulators the food industry can ever imagine. Knowing that consumers can ultimately test the integrity of any product, the entire food supply chain will need to be more disciplined and the rotten apples will need to go, no pun intended. Over time, humans themselves may not get rid of food fraud but technology will. This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. MK Stalin also added that he hopes Vice President Venkaiah Naidu will not use Raj Bhavan for political commentary anymore. By Pramod Madhav: DMK working president MK Stalin has a request for the Vice President- retrospect the speech given at Raj Bhavan recently. Vice President Venkaiah Naidu recently released 'Those Eventful Days', written by former acting Governor of Tamil Nadu Vidyasagar Rao at the Raj Bhavan. In an address there, he said that Tamil Nadu is in need of a stable government, to which Stalin reacted strongly urging Naidu to re-think his statement. advertisement Stalin said that he was shocked by V-P's comments that the state government should fulfill Jayalalithaa's promises and that if a government proves its majority in the Assembly once, then it should face the people only after five years. "I will not ask how he can speak about this after accepting the post of Vice-President... Just hope he'll retrospect his speech", DMK working president asserted. A hopeful MK Stalin also added that he hopes V-P Venkaiah Naidu will not use Raj Bhavan for political commentary anymore. --- ENDS --- Six Flags Fright Fest St. Louis(ST. LOUIS, Mo.) -- On Friday the 13th this year, 13 newlydeads tied the knot in a haunted HalloWedding event at Six Flags' Fright Fest in St. Louis. The ghoulish grooms and macabre brides said till death do they part in the Missouri group ceremony that each said meant the afterworld to them, for different reasons. It meant a lot to us. Her favorite holiday is Halloween, George Johnson told ABC News of his new wife, Shelby Waid-Johnson. We never really did anything traditionally anyways, so to get married in such an unorthodox way was very surreal. There were also 13 couples renewing their vows - some of which wed at Fright Fest 15 years ago. The creepy couples toasted to love, honor and decay each other until eternity, and had personalized spiderweb cakes to enjoy as their first tantalizing treat. They topped off the ghastly night with a spine-chilling roller coaster ride. Jannea and Alfie Borero of Springfield, Illinois It was absolutely amazing, Jannea Borero, 27, told ABC News of their menacing nuptials. Were really into horror movies and weve been engaged for almost four years, but it was one of those things where its so expensive and we kept putting it off. Friday the 13th is Jannea Boreros birthday, so she decided having a HalloWedding on the same date was perfect for us, she said. The Boreros were dressed as a voodoo priest and priestess, wearing hand-made costumes from materials Alfie Boreros late mother used in her sewing. His mother passed away 11 years ago and we incorporated a lot of her old sewing materials into our outfits, said the black magic bride. His vest is completely made out of material she used to use. It was very personal to us. She said they always go full-out for Halloween. We want everything spooky and we always have. Thats how we met, thats how we bonded, said Jannea Borero. Shelby Waid-Johnson and George Johnson of Quincy, Illinois Were getting married the same way my parents got married 15 years ago, Shelby Waid-Johnson told ABC News of her mom and stepdad, Terra and Jason Heck, who wed at Fright Fest in 2002. Theyre here renewing their vows so its nice to share the same experience with them and have the same back story as them. Waid-Johnson, 23, said she was really excited to share the sinister celebration with her parents. Its really cool well be able to look back and laugh and share those memories together, she said. My mom is big on haunted houses and dressing up. She always throws a Halloween party every year. Shes the one who really got me into Halloween. Shelby Waid-Johnson and George Johnson dressed up as Jack and Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas for their big day. Everyone was treating us like a celebrity. It was great to dress up and be someone else, she said. Christina and Michael Pasley of St. Elmo, Illinois Christina and Michael Pasley were renewing their vows 15 years after they wed at Fright Fest in 2002. The hair-raising bride said this ceremony was more fun than the first time they got hitched because they were less nervous. This one was much more enjoyable. We got to relax and have a fun, she said. The costumes have come so far over the years, so it was just better to watch. Christina Pasley wore one of her daughters old homecoming dresses and Michael Pasley got his suit from a thrift store. The hauntingly happy couple said their favorite part of the vow renewals was catching up with two other couples who also got married in a ghoulish way with them in 2002. We would have not wanted to do our wedding in any way differently. We love it, said Christina Pasley, 44. We would do it 10 times again and we hope to be here in 50 years to do it again. Copyright 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. By PTI: (Eds: Upgrading and changing slug) Washington, Oct 17 (PTI) Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will deliver his first policy speech tomorrow on the US bilateral relationship with India. Tillerson will deliver his remarks on Defining Our Relationship with India for the Next Century at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a top American think tank, a statement said. advertisement His first India policy speech after becoming the top American diplomat early this year, comes ahead of President Donald Trumps Asia visit which will take him to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. Tillerson had a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New York last month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meeting. President Trump also hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House in June. After assuming office, Trump has committed himself to strengthening the US relationship with India. Last week, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley met Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross during his visit to the US which concluded today. He raised some key issues of concern to India, including on H-1B visas. Early this month, the first consignment of American crude oil reached India and Indian petroleum companies plan to purchase crude oil worth USD 2 billion from the US in the next one year. India has also placed a large defence order with the US worth billions of dollars. PTI LKJ MRJ KUN --- ENDS --- Utimaco Launches PaymentServer 3.00.0 To Help Payment Industry Reach PCI Compliance AACHEN, Germany 17 October 2017 As the Payment Card Industry (PCI) continues to heat up, Utimaco is providing enterprises in the banking and financial services sector with the opportunity to achieve PCI compliance through its latest launch, PaymentServer 3.00.0. The new PaymentServer is a PCI Standards Security Council accredited PCI PIN Transaction Security Hardware Security Module Version 2 (PCI PTS HSM V2) solution that comes with a complete offering, including the HSM, a Software Development Kit, and additional services such as integration support, certification assistance and tiered maintenance. All of this allows Utimaco partners to focus on business innovation with the assurance that their work remains or regains PCI compliance. Using Utimacos flexible software development kit, companies can reach full PCI compliance for a solution or environment based on the standard product offering from PaymentServer or via a customized and re-certified HSM application. PaymentServer can be leveraged for companies looking for PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), PCI Point-to-Point Encryption (PCI P2PE), or even for PCI HSM as a delta certification with custom code running on the HSM. Companies in the banking and financial sectors are looking for a more competitive HSM market, reduced total cost of ownership and the ability to innovate from their technology platforms when investing in new technology. However, compliance remains mandatory. Utimacos PaymentServer offers a flexible, customizable HSM along with the support for integration and certification. Utimaco may look like a newcomer to the banking and financial services sectors, as it has largely focused on general purpose HSMs, but the impression is deceptive: There are five solutions in the market for companies that require PCI PTS HSM V2, and three out of those five accredited solutions for uncontrolled environments are based on Utimacos CryptoServer CSe technology. The market for banking and financial services is changing, and technology like blockchain and PCI accredited payment HSMs are creating challenges for the traditional incumbents, said Matthias Pankert, Senior Vice President at Utimaco. This is why we decided to step out of the shade and relaunch our offering under our own brand. This way, we can broaden our visibility in the market and support a larger number of partners who wish to shape their own product offering using Payment Card Industry certified HSMs from Utimaco. Utimacos PaymentServer 3.00.0 runs on the same hardware platform as general purpose HSMs and timestamp HSMs, making it an attractive, and affordable, solution for banking and financial services companies that require PCI compliance. This announcement follows Utimacos news in July that its CryptoServer CSe HSM platform achieved PCI PTS HSM V2 compliance for uncontrolled environments from the PCI Standards Security Council, giving the payment card industry and consumers confidence that their data will be secure throughout the transaction process when using Utimacos HSM. For more information on Utimacos latest HSM PaymentServer, or to learn more about PCI HSM certification, visit https://hsm.utimaco.com or contact the team at https://hsm.utimaco.com/contact. About Utimaco Utimaco is a leading manufacturer of HSMs that provide the Root of Trust for the payments industry. We keep cryptographic keys and digital identities safe to protect critical digital infrastructures and high value data assets. Our products enable innovations and support the creation of new business by helping to secure critical business data and transactions. Founded in 1983, Utimaco HSMs today are deployed across more than 80 countries in more than 1,000 installations. Utimaco employs a total of 170 people, with sales offices in Germany, the US, the UK and Singapore. PointofSale.com, now in its 8th year, does not sell products or services and we rely on sponsors to keep the site up. We are independently owned and operated. Please visit the POS software pages and POS hardware pages (see left side menu above) to find great POS products from various vendors. For more info, contact us through the Footer menu below. Other POS News: Verifone & Alipay First to Simplify Taxi Payments for Chinese Travelers in North America NEW YORK and LAS VEGAS (OCTOBER 17, 2017) Verifone (NYSE: PAY), a world leader in payment and commerce solutions, and Alipay, the worlds leading third-party payment platform, announced today the extension of their existing global partnership to Verifone Taxi Solutions. Through the agreement, Chinese consumers traveling in New York and Las Vegas will be able to pay for taxis in the U.S. for the first time using their Alipay Mobile Wallet. By the end of October, 2,100 taxis in Las Vegas will accept Alipay upon checkout, and an additional 14,000 taxis in New York City are slated to accept Alipay in November this year. Paying for taxis can be one of the most stressful elements of traveling abroad, particularly if you dont speak the language, said Souheil Badran, President, Alipay North America. By extending our partnership with Verifone to taxis in New York and Las Vegas, two of the most popular destinations in America for Chinese tourists, we are giving greater confidence to Chinese travelers that they will be able to pay for their taxi ride using the same convenient payment method they use at home, without language barriers. Alipay is Chinas leading online payment provider and the primary means of online and mobile payment for Chinese consumers. As millions of Chinese travelers continue to visit North America, the partnership makes it easy for Chinese shoppers to use their Alipay Mobile Wallet on Verifone devices. Chinese visitors to the U.S. are increasing in number every year and we are continuing to elevate the cashless payment experience by making it easy to pay inside American taxi cabs, said Amos Tamam, Senior Vice President of Global Taxi Systems, Verifone. Enabling Alipay acceptance is yet another example of leveraging our smart transportation platform to drive utilization of traditional taxis which offer the safety of licensed and professional drivers along with predictable pricing. Verifone and Alipay began partnering in 2016 to enable merchants in Europe and North America to accept Alipay in stores driving brand visibility, traffic and sales through its in-app marketing tool. With Verifones mobile point-of-sale, retailers can accept Alipay anywhere in the store and implement marketing campaigns targeting Chinese consumers who use the Alipay app. Verifone will be at Money20/20 USA, October 23-25, 2017. About Alipay Operated by Ant Financial Services Group, Alipay is the worlds largest mobile and online payment platform. Launched in 2004, Alipay currently has over 520 million active users and over 200 domestic financial institution partners. Alipay has evolved from a digital wallet to a lifestyle enabler. Users can hail a taxi, book a hotel, buy movie tickets, pay utility bills, make appointments with doctors, or purchase wealth management products directly from within the app. In addition to online payments, Alipay is expanding to in-store offline payments both inside and outside of China. Over 10 million brick-and-mortar merchants now accept Alipay across China. Alipays in-store payment service covers more than 30 countries across the world, and tax reimbursement via Alipay is supported in 24 countries and regions. Alipay works with over 250 overseas financial institutions and payment solution providers to enable cross-border payments for Chinese travelling overseas and overseas customers who purchase products from Chinese e-commerce sites. Alipay currently supports 27 currencies. Follow us on Twitter @antfinancial and @alipay. About Verifone Verifone is transforming every day transactions into new and engaging opportunities for merchants and consumers at the last inch of payments and commerce. Powered by a growing footprint of more than 30 million devices in more than 150 countries, our people are trusted experts working with the worlds best-known retail brands, financial institutions, and payment providers. Verifone is connecting more products to an integrated solutions platform to better meet the evolving needs of our clients and partners. Built on a 35-year history of uncompromised security, we are committed to consistently solving the most complex payment challenges. Verifone.com | (NYSE: PAY) | @verifone. More websites for Point-of-sale niches: POS-Advice.com a 100% focus on restaurant point of sale technology and trends. Offers insightful posts and resources. POSforum.net a support forum where users share information and answer tech questions for various restaurant POS products including Oracle/Micros and Aloha. Restaurantsoftwarelist.com A list of technology solutions for restaurants and hospitality. Find developers, manufacturers, resellers and processors. Digital POS Magazine 28-32 pages about Point-of-sale Approx 8x a year. Each issue varies in focus for assorted trends or major industry shows. BarCode.com Great content on bar codes, bar code printing, labels, bar code supplies, RFID, IoT, UPC codes, QR codes and much more. Over 3,000 articles and completely free. Includes a free barcode label making tool and where to buy a bar code for your products. Other POS News: Inventory needs to be managed and managed well, or you are going to get in recurring trouble, and lose your credibility and hard-earned conversions, whether Read more For example, in October 2017 in Virginia and in other locations, Hurricane Jose, which never made landfall but churned hundreds of miles off the U.S. coast, contributed to king-tide flooding. Off Sewells Point near Norfolk, the water rose 0.73 feet (.22 meters) above what the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration considers minor flood stage there. Such situations are becoming increasingly common and more troublesome. In Florida, the number of king tides has soared 400 percent between 2006 and 2016. And during summer of 2019, Miami set multiple high-tide records in late July and early August. Advertisement Why the increase? Although there are many reasons why king tides are driving water further inland, none is more worrisome than climate change. As Earth warms, ice melts and the temperature of the ocean gets hotter. When that happens, water expands and rises. "The king tides are garnering more attention now due to the derivative effects of sea level rise, and coastal land subsidence due to the draining of subsurface aquifers for drinking water in many coastal regions," Loftis says. Brian McNoldy, a scientist at the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, says seasonal effects, such as the amount of precipitation, also play a role. In addition, when trees and plants begin to shut down for the winter and shed their leaves, they cannot absorb as much rain runoff as they do in the spring and summer. As a result, the increase runoff contributes to flooding during king tides. Although wind doesn't have a direct impact on king tides, it does play a role. In South Florida, McNoldy says, a persistent onshore wind increases the water level up to a foot (.03 meters) on top of the regular astronomic tides. The impact on communities can be devastating. Right after Hurricane Irma blew through in 2017, king tides flooded some neighborhoods of Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach and parts of South Florida for several days, creating unease in an already ravaged area. A clear legal framework, political stability and a free market economy are what makes Singapore continue to be a conducive environment for international television networks to house their Asian headquarters. Industry insiders say that while the English-speaking environment in Singapore already serves as an advantage for international networks operations, compared to rival cities such as Hong Kong, it is the governments incentives and legal framework of media convergence that sets the city-state apart from the rest of Asia. Anthony Fung, co-director of Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies and a journalism professor, says Singapore has a clear framework for media convergence, whereas Hong Kong, also a free market economy posing as an international finance hub, faces an uncertain future over media industry development, such as over-the-top platforms. A number of major international media players operate their Asian headquarters in Singapore. Besides HBO Asia and Netflix, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific is also headquartered in Singapore. The Walt Disney Co. Southeast Asia, based in Singapore, announced last year that it will form an integrated media network called Disney Media Networks. Fox Networks Group, headquartered in Hong Kong, has a significant presence in Singapore. Companies that are yet to set up Asian headquarters in Singapore are expanding to the Lion City. In February, Turner Asia Pacific, headquartered in Hong Kong, announced the establishment of a Southeast Asia arm based there. In 2012, the government-appointed Media Convergence Review Panel submitted a study on media convergence brought on by technological advances and growing connectivity, recommending a streamlining of licensing online content services. According to a report by multimedia industry association Casbaa, regulatory bodies were merged to form the Infocomm Media Development Authority last year. The pay-TV industry association also credited Singapores efforts in copyright protection by amending the law in 2014, a move generally welcomed by international players. Hong Kong, on the other hand, fails to create an environment that is favorable for international networks. Story continues The Casbaa report says that although a regulators merger took place in 2012 to form the Communications Authority, telecommunications and broadcasting remain to be regulated separately. The pay-TV association was dismayed by the citys failure to amend the outdated copyright law due to local political disputes. There are great uncertainties to the development of OTT in Hong Kong, says Fung. International TV networks benefit from the employment policies in Singapore. Producer Peter Tsi, who was a TV executive in the 1990s, recalls that many international networks were headquartered in Hong Kong at the time. But they left the then-British colony for the Lion City expecting political turmoil from the handover to China. Plus there was the attraction of Singapore government incentives such as tax breaks and low rent in newly developed areas. It was when Discovery and HBO Asia moved to Singapore, he says. Incentives for foreign companies continue today. A wide range of grants and tax incentives are available for businesses. The government backs the employment of foreign workers, particularly the skilled talent, despite the fact that criteria for the application of higher grade visas were tightened in recent years. But one factor that makes international networks feel at home in Singapore is the English-speaking environment. Unlike other Asian territories where television is a localized industry dominated by the local language, the TV workforce in Singapore is English-speaking, which eases operation there, Fung says. Related stories Italian TV Adapts to Global Tastes Rai Raises the Drama Series Bar Sweden and Denmark See Uptick in New Series at HBO, Netflix and More Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts! EU anti-terror chief Gilles de Kerchove on Tuesday called for a boosted exchange of information with Tunisia, which has seen its nationals involved in deadly attacks abroad and on its soil. During a visit to Tunis, for talks with Tunisian ministers, the EU official said that the flow of information across the Mediterranean "is functioning well" but could be improved. "We are looking to see how to help Tunisia in the area of data protection... to increase the exchange of information," between the Tunisian authorities and organisations such as Europol and Eurojust, he added. He argued such improvements could be useful for ongoing cases like the trial of the suspects in the 2015 attack on a beach resort near Sousse that killed nearly 40 foreign holidaymakers, most of them British. Families of French and British victims of that attack and one at the National Bardo Museum in Tunis the same year, in which 22 people died, have complained they were not informed of the legal proceedings which followed. Tunisians have also carried out deadly attacks in Europe, including Berlin and the French towns of Nice and Marseille. Asked about the arrival in Europe of Ahmed Hanachi, a Tunisian national who killed two women in the southern French city of Marseille on October 1, de Kerchove underlined the difficulty in "identifying the point of changeover from radicalism to violent radicalism". Hanachi, 29, fatally stabbed the two women at Marseille's Saint-Charles train station before being shot dead by police. The attack was claimed by the Islamic State group, but French investigators have not found any evidence linking it to the jihadists. But Hanachi was known to the police for drug as well as alcohol problems and had a history of petty crime, using seven aliases. "One of the main subjects is to become more and more precise in the detection of the tipping point," the EU commissioner told a press conference in Tunis. Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, attends a hearing behind bars in a courtroom in Zintan May 15, 2014. REUTERS/Stringer (Reuters) By Aidan Lewis TUNIS (Reuters) - Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the most prominent son of the former Libyan leader, is in good health and is following the political situation in Libya from his base inside the country, a Gaddafi family lawyer said on Tuesday. Khaled al-Zaidi said he was in personal contact with Saif, but refused to say where in Libya Saif was, or whether he had ever left Zintan, the western town where he was detained after the 2011 revolt in which his father was toppled and killed. "He's working on politics from his base in Libya, with the tribes, with the cities, with the decision makers," Zaidi told reporters in Tunis. "He's in a good health ... in top condition. His medical and psychological condition are good." Saif was seen by some as a potential reformist successor to his father in the years before 2011 and remains a key figure for Gaddafi loyalists. Seeking to rebuild their influence, they present Saif as someone who can help reconcile the country's rival factions, though he is sought for alleged war crimes both in his home country and by the International Criminal Court. "The aim is to achieve peace in Libya," said Zaidi. "He follows Libyan affairs closely every day." In June, Zaidi said Saif had been freed in Zintan under an amnesty law passed two years ago by a parliament based in eastern Libya. Earlier reports that Saif had been liberated turned out to be false, and uncertainty about his whereabouts and status have long fuelled rumours. Those included speculation during the summer that he was about to re-emerge with a speech or public statement. No physical evidence of Saif's whereabouts has been offered. He was last seen by an independent international observer in June 2014. A Tripoli court sentenced Saif to death in absentia in 2015 for war crimes, including killing protesters during the revolution. The International Criminal Court, based in the Netherlands, is also seeking his arrest and said in June it was trying to verify the reports of Saif's release. (Reporting by Aidan Lewis; Editing by Hugh Lawson) Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy has triggered a fresh controversy with his remarks on social media by drawing a parallel between Azaan (call to prayers in a mosque) with the noise of firecrackers. By Indrajit Kundu: Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy has triggered a fresh controversy with his remarks on social media by drawing a parallel between Azaan (call to prayers in a mosque) with the noise of firecrackers. Questioning those who complain of noise pollution due to firecrackers during Diwali, Roy on Tuesday tweeted, "Every Diwali, fights start over noise pollution from crackers. Crackers that are burst only a few days in a year. But no fight about azaan over loudspeakers at 4.30 AM!" advertisement "Actually this silence of the 'secular' crowd over noise pollution by Azaan perplexes me. Loudspeakers are not prescribed in Quran or any Haadis", the veteran BJP leader went on to say. Roy's comments come at a time when the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal has imposed restrictions on the bursting of firecrackers from 10 pm on the day of Diwali to 6 am the next morning. Ever since the Supreme Court banned firecrackers in Delhi, Roy has vehemently opposed any restrictions on such Hindu festivals. In a veiled attack on the court ruling, Roy had then said, "Not just firecrackers, someday the "award wapsi" brigade may even call for a ban on Hindu cremations on the pretext of air pollution", Roy tweeted on Tuesday. Later speaking to India Today, he had clarified that as a practising Hindu, he was unhappy with the Supreme Court ruling as it deprived the community of an important aspect of celebrations. Known for his hardline stance on several issues, the Tripura Governor had also courted controversy by terming Rohingya refugees "garbage". "Neither any Islamic country nor Bangladesh accepts Rohingiyas. But India, the great Dharamshala, must. And if u say no, you're inhuman!" Roy had tweeted. ALSO WATCH VIDEO | Flouting Supreme Court's ban, firecrackers being sold illegally in Delhi-NCR --- ENDS --- The rescue of an abducted US-Canadian family in Pakistan last week has spotlighted their captors the Haqqani network, former CIA assets now considered one of the most dangerous factions fighting US-led NATO forces in Afghanistan. Led by Sirajuddin Haqqani, who doubles as the Afghan Taliban's deputy leader, the extremist group has been blamed for spectacular attacks across Afghanistan since after the US invasion. Long suspected of links to Pakistan's shadowy military establishment, the network was described by US Admiral Mike Mullen in 2011 as a "veritable arm" of Pakistani intelligence. "When you hear US officials, including in private settings, talking about what worries them the most, they always talk about the Haqqanis," said analyst Michael Kugelman, of the Wilson Center in Washington. - Who are they? - The group was founded by Jalaluddin Haqqani, an Afghan mujahideen commander fighting the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s with the help of the US and Pakistan. Jalaluddin gained notoriety for his organisation and bravery, garnering attention from the CIA and a personal visit from US congressman Charlie Wilson. A fluent Arabic speaker, Jalaluddin also fostered close ties with Arab jihadists including Osama Bin Laden who flocked to the region during the war. Later, Jalaluddin became a minister in the Taliban regime. Now designated a terrorist group by the US, the Haqqanis are known for their heavy use of suicide bombers. They were blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of Kabul in May that killed around 150 people -- though Sirajuddin later denied the accusation in a rare audio message. The network has also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. That includes recently released Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. - Where are they now? - Following the US invasion of Afghanistan, Taliban fighters flooded across the border into Pakistan, where they regrouped before launching an insurgency against the Americans. That included the Haqqanis, who coordinated attacks on NATO from across the border in their stronghold of Miran Shah, the biggest town in North Waziristan, one of Pakistan's semi-autonomous border tribal areas. The US has launched repeated drone attacks targeting the group -- including one late Monday -- while Pakistan's military has conducted successive clearing operations, though sceptical Afghan officials have noted they always seemed to miss the Haqqanis. Pakistan intensified a military operation in the area in 2014, however, and some militant sources say the pressure has forced many of the Haqqanis underground or over the border into their Afghan strongholds, claims that AFP could not confirm. - Why are they linked to Pakistan? - Pakistan sees its arch-nemesis to the east, India, as an existential threat, and has long sought influence over Kabul as a bulwark against Delhi. The Haqqanis have frequently been accused of targeting Indian installations in Afghanistan, spurring speculation they were overseen by Pakistani intelligence agencies. "For Pakistan the calculus comes down to India," said Kugelman. "It views the Haqqanis and also more broadly the Afghan Taliban as a useful asset to help push back against the presence of India in Afghanistan." Politicians and retired military officials in Islamabad acknowledge privately that having open channels with the Haqqanis is vital. Some stressed the nature of the connection. "There's a difference between contact and supporting them or being part of them," Mehmood Shah, a retired brigadier who worked in Pakistan's tribal areas, told AFP. - What does the US want Pakistan to do? - Washington has long pressured Pakistan to crack down on militant groups, with the Haqqanis a top priority. US President Donald Trump turned up the heat this summer when he accused Pakistan of playing a double game in Afghanistan and upbraided Islamabad for sheltering "agents of chaos". Islamabad has repeatedly denied the claims and accused Washington of ignoring the thousands of Pakistani lives lost in its struggle with militancy. The recovery of Boyle, Coleman, and their children came weeks later, with Pakistan using its role in securing their freedom to urge the US to trust it is doing its best. But, Pakistan's desire for strategic depth aside, a crackdown on the Haqqanis might not be easy in a tribal society where social relations matter, warned Pakistani political analyst Imtiaz Gul. "You can't simply pluck out somebody because they've gone politically incorrect," he said. By Maher Chmaytelli and Mustafa Mahmoud BAGHDAD/KIRKUK, Iraq (Reuters) - Iraqi government forces captured the major Kurdish-held oil city of Kirkuk on Monday, responding to a Kurdish referendum on independence with a bold lightning strike that transforms the balance of power in the country. A convoy of armoured vehicles from Iraq's elite U.S.-trained Counter-Terrorism Force seized Kirkuk's provincial government headquarters less than a day after the operation began, a Reuters reporter in Kirkuk said. Neither side gave a casualty toll for the operation. But an aid organisation working in Kirkuk said several Kurdish Peshmerga fighters and members of the Iraqi forces had been killed in an overnight clash south of Kirkuk - the only serious fighting reported. As Iraqi forces advanced, Kurdish operators briefly shut some 350,000 barrels per day of oil output at two large Kirkuk fields, citing security concerns, oil ministry sources on both sides said. But production resumed shortly thereafter following an Iraqi threat to seize fields under Kurdish management if they did not do so, according to the sources. It was not immediately clear whether or when the Iraqi government would seek to retake control of all Kirkuk oilfields, a vital source of revenue for the autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The short suspension in production helped push up world oil prices as the shutdown represented more than half of total Kurdish output. Fighting between Baghdad and the Kurds could open an entirely new front in Iraq's 14-year-old civil war and potentially draw in regional powers such as Turkey and Iran. President Donald Trump said the United States would not take sides in the clash but expressed disappointment the two sides were in conflict. The U.S. military said its commanders in Iraq were urging Iraqi and Kurdish forces to avoid escalation and played down reports of fighting. "We support the peaceful exercise of joint administration by the central and regional governments, consistent with the Iraqi constitution, in all disputed areas," the U.S. State Department said in a statement. Story continues Trump told reporters at the White House: "We don't like the fact that they're clashing. We're not taking sides." "We've had for many years a very good relationship with the Kurds as you know and we've also been on the side of Iraq, even though we should have never been there in the first place," he said. Washington arms and trains both Iraqi federal forces and the Peshmerga to fight Islamic State militants. THOUSANDS OF KURDS FLEE A dozen Iraqi armoured vehicles arrived at the provincial government headquarters in Kirkuk and took up positions nearby, alongside local police. They pulled down the Kurdish flag and left the Iraqi flag flying. Thousands of Kurdish civilians fled the city of 1 million people for fear of reprisals. A Kurdish father of four who was driving out of Kirkuk towards the Kurdish regional capital Erbil to the north said: "We no longer feel safe. We hope to return to our home but right now we feel it's dangerous for us to stay." Crowds of ethnic Turkmen who opposed Kurdish control of the city were celebrating. Some drove in convoys with Iraqi flags and fired shots in the air. "This day should become a holiday, we're so happy to have gotten rid of Barzani's party," said a man celebrating on a motorbike, waving the blue-and-white flag of Iraq's Turkmen, referring to the Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani. The Iraqi government considers the Sept. 25 Kurdish independence referendum illegal, especially as it was held not just in the autonomous KRG region but in Kirkuk and other adjacent areas that Kurdish Peshmerga forces occupied after driving out Islamic State militants in 2014. The Peshmerga moved in after Iraqi government forces collapsed in the face of a rapid onslaught by Islamic State, preventing the jihadists from seizing the oilfields. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi ordered the national flag hoisted over Kirkuk and other disputed areas. Baghdad described its army's advance as largely unopposed, and urged the Peshmerga to cooperate in keeping the peace. The Peshmerga said Baghdad would be made to pay "a heavy price" for triggering "war on the Kurdistan people". MOVE AGAINST KURDISH SECESSION The overnight advance was the most decisive step Baghdad has taken yet to block the independence bid of the Kurds, who have long governed an autonomous tract of northern Iraq and voted three weeks ago to secede. Kirkuk, one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse cities in Iraq, is located just outside the autonomous Kurdish zone. Kurds consider it the heart of their homeland; they say it was cleansed of Kurds and settled with Arabs under former President Saddam Hussein to secure control of the oil. U.S. Defense Department spokesman Colonel Robert Manning declined to speculate on whether Washington might cut off military aid and training to Iraqi forces in the event of a major conflict. SECESSION OPPOSED BY NEIGHBOURS The Kurdish secession bid was strongly opposed by neighbours Iran and Turkey. Washington, allied with the Kurds for decades, pleaded in vain for them to halt a vote that could break up Iraq. There were signs of internal strife among the Kurds, who have been divided for decades into two main factions, the KDP of regional government leader Barzani and the PUK of his late rival Jalal Talabani. Both parties control their own Peshmerga units. While Barzani's KDP strongly supported the independence referendum, some PUK figures were more circumspect. Monday's Peshmerga statement accused a group within the PUK of "treason" for allegedly assisting Baghdad's advance. "We regret that some PUK officials helped in this plot," it said. Talabani's widow, Hero, said the Iraqi operation was carried out with international consent and the PUK was not able to prevent it through talks. "This heroic city was facing an international plan," she said in a statement. Although Iraqi officials portrayed the Kurds as retreating without a fight, Kurdish officials said Peshmerga had clashed with the "Popular Mobilisation" - Shi'ite Muslim forces trained and armed by Iran that operate alongside regular Iraqi troops. Turkey, which had developed a good working relationship with the Iraqi Kurds and let the landlocked region export oil through its pipes, has swung behind Baghdad, furious at a secession move that might ignite similar demands from its own Kurds. Turkey said it would close its airspace to KRG territory and work to hand control of the main border crossing into the region to the Iraqi central government. (Additional reporting by Ahmed Rasheed in Baghdad, Dmitry Zhdannikov in London, Phil Stewart in Washington, and Tuvan Gumrukcu and Ece Toksabay in Ankara; Writing by Peter Graff; Editing by Alistair Bell and James Dalgleish) Just days after US President Donald Trump called for further isolation of Iran, a Norwegian solar company signed a deal Tuesday to invest 2.5 billion euros in the country over the next five years. "Norway is fully committed to the JCPOA (nuclear deal) and this is proof that we have taken the opening very seriously, and we will see more investment very soon," Norwegian ambassador Lars Nordrum told AFP. He was hosting the signing at his Tehran residence between Norway's Saga Energy and Iran's Amin Energy Developers, who will work together to install two gigawatts of solar panels in multiple sites around the central desert region. That makes it the second-largest investment deal in Iran since the 2015 nuclear deal eased global sanctions, and dwarfs the 600 megawatt solar project finalised just last month between Iran and British investment fund Quercus. The timing was coincidental, but comes just days after Trump's bellicose speech in which he called for further sanctions on Iran. It underlines the challenge Washington hardliners will face in trying to convince Europeans, who have remained firmly behind the nuclear deal, to abandon their burgeoning ties with the Islamic republic. The Norwegian project is being financed by a consortium of European private and state investors, and backed by a sovereign guarantee from the Iranian government. "I'd like to thank Norway, which has always been one of the best friends to Iran, for this exciting opportunity," said Saeid Zakeri, head of international affairs for Amin. - Business risk - European and Asian businesses have shown great interest in tapping into Iran's relatively wealthy and largely untouched market of 80 million people. But continuing US sanctions on Iran, and Trump's aggressive rhetoric, have bred a crippling uncertainty that mean many investment plans are stuck on the drawing board. There have been a few big deals, most notably France's Total, which signed a $5 billion gas deal in June alongside China's CNPC. A few other major firms such as Siemens, Renault and Peugeot have extensive investments. Solar projects are particularly important for Iran, which has severe pollution problems, as well as facing existential environmental threats from desertification and warming temperatures. "We expect there to be some business risk in the Middle East, and Europe stands united in its support of the JCPOA," said Nordrum. "This is a great win because Iran really needs renewables and this is a new sector for us," he added. Saga is a young company, formed by former oil and gas project managers and engineers who shifted into the renewables sector after traditional energy markets were badly hit by falling prices. A partnership with Taiwan's Delta Electronics, a major player in the solar sector, has helped them mobilise large amounts of capital from Europe. "We are a small company with mighty partners," said Saga's development manager Gaute Steinkopf at the signing. "We hope to build a factory in Iran to build the panels so that we are also generating jobs here," he added. The tough climatic conditions in Iran offer a chance for research as well as business. "To withstand the heat here, you need very good panels. This is the huge challenge," said Saga director Rune Haaland. "We want to learn more about this, and we're hoping to establish a relationship between a university here and in Norway," he said. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gestures as he delivers his speech, during the oath taking of Philippine National Police (PNP) star rank officers, at the Malacanang Presidential Palace in Manila, Philippines August 30, 2017. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco/Files (Reuters) By Neil Jerome Morales and Manolo Serapio Jr MANILA (Reuters) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared the southern city of Marawi liberated from pro-Islamic State militants on Tuesday, although the military said 20-30 rebels were holding about 20 hostages and still fighting it out. In a rousing address to soldiers a day after the killing of two commanders of the rebel alliance, Duterte said he would never again allow militants to stockpile so many weapons, but Marawi was now free and it was time to heal wounds and rebuild. "I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from terrorist influence, that marks the beginning of rehabilitation," Duterte, wearing a camouflage cap and dark sunglasses, said during his unannounced visit. Isnilon Hapilon, who was wanted by the United States and was Islamic State's Southeast Asian "emir", and Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers central to the alliance, were killed in a targeted operation on Monday. Their bodies were recovered and identified, authorities said. The 148-day occupation marked the Roman Catholic-majority Philippines' biggest security crisis in years and triggered concerns that with its mountains, jungles and porous borders, the island of Mindanao could become a magnet for Islamic State fighters driven out of Iraq and Syria. More than 1,000 people, mostly rebels, were killed in the battle and the heart of the city of 200,000 has been levelled by air strikes. Duterte said the liberation was not a cause for celebration and later apologised to the people of Marawi for the destruction. "We had to do it," he said. "There was no alternative." Armed forces chief Eduardo Ano said the remaining gunmen were now a "law enforcement matter", while military spokesman Restituto Padilla described them as "stragglers". "There is no way that they can get out anymore, there is no way for anyone to get in," Padilla told news channel ANC. Story continues NOT A FIGHTER, NOT A PROBLEM Padilla said the military believed Malaysian operative Mahmud Ahmad was in Marawi, but it could not be certain. He said Mahmud was no threat. "Dr. Mahmud is an academic, he's not a fighter," Padilla said. "We don't feel he is a problem." But some security experts say otherwise and believe Mahmud, 39, a recruiter and fundraiser who trained at an al Qaeda camp in Afghanistan, could replace Hapilon as Islamic State's point-man in Southeast Asia. Another leader, Abdullah Maute, has yet to be accounted for. Intelligence indicated he died in an August air strike, though no body was found. Defence officials say the core leadership was key to recruiting young fighters and arranging for extremists from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and beyond to join the push to carve out an East Asian "Wilaya", or Islamic State province. Hapilon had teamed up with the moneyed Maute clan in their stronghold of Lanao del Sur, one of the Philippines' poorest provinces, and brought with him fighters from his radical faction of Abu Sayyaf, a group better known for banditry. Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who estimated Marawi operations to have cost 5 billion pesos ($97.5 million), said reconstruction could start in January. "There are still stragglers and the structures are still unsafe because of unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive devices," he said on radio. The Marawi occupation set alarm bells ringing in the Philippines, with militants surprising security forces with their combat prowess, the volume of arms and ammunition they stockpiled and their ability to withstand intensive air strikes aided by U.S. surveillance drones and technical support. ($1 = 51 pesos) (Additional reporting by Manuel Mogato; Writing by Martin Petty; Editing by Nick Macfie) Former Georgian leader Mikheil Saakashvili told a mass rally in Kiev on Tuesday that President Petro Poroshenko needed to quit as activists set out demands for the government to tackle entrenched state graft. Saakashvili's warning at a demonstration outside parliament in the capital was the culmination of a month of anti-government protests the one-time Poroshenko ally has led across Ukraine since returning to the country last month. "There can be no fight against corruption while Poroshenko is in power," Saakashvili said. "It is time for them to hear us," the 49-year-old said to chants of "Shame!" and "Out with the gang!" The national police department said an anti-riot officer and three demonstrators were hurt in scuffles that involved nearly 5,000 people in the heart of Kiev. Poroshenko was a Western favourite who rose to power when a bloody 2014 revolution toppled a Kremlin-backed regime and pulled Ukraine out of Russia's historic orbit. But Poroshenko's critics fear that he has put the breaks on institutional changes and the difficult task of eliminating state graft in order to preserve the existing political order. The complex relationship between Saakashvili and Poroshenko has had twists and turns that exemplify the difficulties facing crisis-torn Ukraine. Saakashvili was a fierce Poroshenko supporter who became a regional Ukrainian governor after serving two terms as Georgia's president before fleeing that country under pressure from the new regime. Yet Saakashvili became more disgruntled with time and eventually accused Poroshenko himself of being the corruption kingpin. The charge saw Saakashvili lose his Ukrainian citizenship while he was paying a visit to the United States in July. Saakashvili made a dramatic return to Ukraine with the help of hundreds of supporters in September and the protest in Kiev on Tuesday marked his sternest face-off with Poroshenko to date. Poroshenko did not address the corruption allegations on Tuesday and just told reporters: "I view the protests with understanding and respect its participants". - Three demands - The protesters issued three major demands for the country's president. The most crucial involved stripping lawmakers of immunity from prosecution and launching an anti-corruption court that Kiev's lenders at the IMF have labelled a "benchmark" of Ukraine's progress toward Western standards. A third demand called for changes to the election system that would help independent lawmakers gain seats. Tuesday's rally was called by several political parties besides Saakashvili's which have also opposed Poroshenko's rule. These included one led by former premier Yulia Tymoshenko and the Samopomich (Self-Reliance) movement that was first elected to parliament in 2015. The three are currently united by a deep-seated antipathy toward Poroshenko. Yet it is unclear how long their union will last since each appears to have its own political ambitions. - Mounting pressure - Poroshenko appeared to respond to the mounting political pressure by introducing a bill on Tuesday that would eliminate lawmakers' immunity starting in 2020. But protest organisers dismissed this as a token measure that needlessly delayed the long-promised change. "In order to start political reforms, we have to have a regime change," university lecturer Taras Tretyak told AFP as protesters sang and chanted around him. "Unfortunately, Ukraine is in such a state that the issue of conducting reforms is one of the country's very survival," the 37-year-old said. Lawmakers can currently be charged with a crime only if a majority in parliament votes to remove their legal protection. Singapore students. Yahoo News Singapore file photo School fees for Singapore permanent residents (PRs) and international students will go up for those in government and government-aided schools each year for three years, from 2018 to 2020, said the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Tuesday (17 October). The monthly fees will increase by between S$25 and S$60 each year for PR students, and by S$25 to S$150 per month for international students, said a release on the MOE website. The revised fees will take effect from January each year. There are no plans to adjust fees for Singapore citizen students in government and government-aided schools, added the ministry. These students currently do not pay monthly school fees for Primary School, and pay S$5 and S$6 for secondary school and pre-university, respectively. The son of murdered Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Joseph Muscat of being complicit in his mother's death as the shockwaves from a grisly car bomb killing reverberated across Europe. Matthew Caruana Galizia, also an investigative journalist, described the pain of finding his mother's body blown to pieces and said he believed she had been assassinated for her whistleblowing activity. In an emotional post on his Facebook page, the son accused Muscat of filling his office with crooks and creating a culture of impunity that had turned Malta into a "mafia island". The centre-left premier denies any wrongdoing. But the case looks set to increase scrutiny of Malta by its partners in the European Union. Some members of the bloc have already expressed concern over the island's light-touch regulation of financial services and company registrations, and a controversial scheme that offers an EU passport to wealthy investors. The European Commission said it was horrified by what it termed a likely "targeted attack". "This is a horrible event, a major thing that needs to be investigated, and clarified," commission spokesman Margaritis Schinas said. Press freedom group Reporters without Borders described the murder as being like something out of Vladimir Putin's Russia and a rare incident of its kind for an EU state. Caruana Galizia, a veteran journalist who had been called a "one-woman Wikileaks", had lately used her widely read blog to make a series of detailed allegations of corruption in Muscat's inner circle, some based on the Panama Papers data leak. Her killing has triggered grief and anger on the island of 430,000 people, with thousands attending an overnight vigil that was followed Tuesday with a "Justice for Daphne" demonstration outside the main law courts in the fortress capital Valletta. "The state did not defend Daphne," said Andrew Borg Cardona, a prominent lawyer who works with the journalist's husband. Michael Briguglio, a former leader of the island's Greens party, said: "This is a political murder because it clearly has a political context and the state did not protect a journalist who was in danger." - 'Office filled with crooks' - "I am never going to forget, running around the inferno in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it," Matthew Caruana wrote on Facebook. "They stared at me. 'I'm sorry, there is nothing we can do", one of them said. "I looked down and there were my mother's body parts all around me. I realised they were right, it was hopeless." Muscat has described the killing as "barbaric" and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice with the help of FBI investigators. That pledge from the Labour Party prime minister was dismissed by the victim's son. "It is of little comfort for the prime minister of this country to say that he will 'not rest' until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a government that encouraged that same impunity," he wrote. "First he filled his office with crooks, then he filled the police with crooks and imbeciles, then he filled the courts with crooks and incompetents." - Aides' secret accounts - The judge in charge of investigating the murder stepped aside from the case Tuesday following objections from the Caruana Galizia family. Magistrate Consuelo Scerri Herrera had been accused of misconduct by the blogger and had threatened her with libel proceedings. Caruana Galizia's death came four months after Muscat won a landslide victory in elections that were called early after she accused his wife of taking kickbacks from Azerbaijan's ruling family and hiding the cash in a secret Panama bank account. The claims, which Muscat denies, were the latest in a string of scandals based on information leaked from the records of the Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. The so-called Panama Papers revealed how wealthy individuals around the world, including several lawmakers, used shell companies in tax havens to hide cash. Keith Schembri, Muscat's chief of staff, and Konrad Mizzi, a government minister, were both forced to admit having undeclared accounts. But the premier resisted pressure to dismiss them, insisting they had done nothing illegal. Two separate suicide and gun attacks on police and soldiers in Afghanistan left at least 71 dead and nearly 170 wounded Tuesday in the latest devastating assaults on beleaguered security forces. The Taliban claimed the more deadly of the two assaults, a coordinated attack on police in the southeast city of Gardez in Paktia province. That assault killed 41 people and injured 158, according to the interior ministry, and left hospital officials calling for blood donations. There were desperate scenes as relatives queued for news of loved ones after the hours-long battle. A separate ambush blamed on the Taliban in the neighbouring province of Ghazni killed 25 security officials and five civilians with 10 wounded, the interior ministry said. Afghanistan's army and police, on the front line against the Taliban since foreign combat forces pulled back in December 2014, have suffered shocking casualties over the past year. Their ranks are beset by corruption and desertion. "The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on people to donate blood," said Shir Mohammad Karimi, deputy health director in Gardez, who put the number of wounded there at more than 200. Doctors and nurses rushed to attend to the wounded women, children and police filling the corridors where some bodies also lay. Outside, university students formed a queue to donate blood, an AFP photographer said. The attack, claimed by the Taliban in a tweet, began when two suicide bombers driving an explosives-laden truck and a Humvee blew them up near the training centre, which is close to the Paktia police headquarters. The blasts flattened a building and enabled gunmen to force their way inside the compound, according to officials and the interior ministry. "Most of the victims are civilians who had come to the police headquarters to get their passports and national IDs," a statement from the Paktia governor's office said. A university student who was in class at the time said he heard "a big boom" which shook the building and shattered windows. "As we were trying to find our way (out of the building) I heard a second blast and then the dust and dirt covered us in the class. Several of my classmates were wounded by broken glass," Noor Ahmad told AFP. The battle between the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and security forces lasted around five hours before it ended with all five militants killed, officials said. Photos posted on Twitter showed two large plumes of smoke rising above the city. The second attack, in Ghazni some 100 kilometres (62 miles) west of Gardez, followed a similar pattern involving insurgents detonating an explosives-laden Humvee near a police headquarters then storming the building, Haref Noori, the Ghazni governor's spokesman, told AFP. "Dozens of Taliban" were killed in the attack, Ghazni police chief Mohammad Zaman said. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attacks and praised the "bravery and sacrifice" of security forces. - Drone strike - The attacks are the latest in a series of assaults on security installations, including one on a military hospital in Kabul in March which may have killed up to 100 people, and a devastating attack on a base in Mazar-i-Sharif which left 144 people dead. They came one day after four-way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United States and China were held in Oman with the aim of ending the Taliban's 16-year insurgency. Paktia province borders Pakistan's militancy-plagued tribal areas where the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network has a presence. Tuesday's attack in Gardez began hours after a US drone strike in Pakistan's Kurram tribal district, part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani militants, officials have said. A senior commander in the Afghan Taliban told AFP on condition of anonymity the attack was in retaliation for the US aerial assault, the deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region this year. On Monday the US also carried out strikes in the Jaji Maidan district of Paktia "under counter-terror authorities", said US Forces spokesman Navy Captain Tom Gresback. In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has said they were being held by the Haqqani network. The extremist group is known for its frequent use of suicide bombers. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Westerners for ransom. These include the recently rescued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, and their three children -- all born in captivity -- as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. str-emh-sjd-amj/st/ds/sm By PTI: By Lalit K Jha Washington, Oct 17 (PTI) US President Donald Trump has promised to bring the cost of prescription drugs way down and let other countries pay more for these medicines in a new policy that could have implications for India. He told his Cabinet members at a meeting at the White House yesterday that the prices of prescription drugs in the US have gone through the roof. advertisement "If you look at the same drug by the same exact company made in the same exact box and sold some place else sometimes its a fraction of what we pay in this country," he said. Trump did not mention any country, but his policy on prescription drugs, which was discussed during his Cabinet meeting could have implications for India. This is because for instance, early this year Indias National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPAA) fixed the price of drug eluting stents at USD 450 and bare metal stents at USD 110. NPAA has said that it intends to take similar measures for other costly medical devices. "The world as usual has taken advantage of the United States. They are setting prices in other countries and we are not. The drug companies frankly are getting away with murder," Trump said in his opening remarks. "We want to bring prices down to whatever the other countries are paying or at least close to that," he said. "They (other countries) are setting such low prices that were actually subsidising other countries. And thats just not going to happen anymore," Trump said. "This has been going on for years where our people are paying so much more. I dont mean they are paying two per cent more. They are paying double, triple, quadruple. They are paying so much more that it is very unfair to the United States as usual," Trump said. PTI LKJ KUN NSA --- ENDS --- U.S. President Donald Trump speaks as he holds a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, U.S., October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque (Reuters) By Dan Levine and Yeganeh Torbati SAN FRANCISCO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. judge on Tuesday blocked President Donald Trump's latest bid to impose restrictions on citizens from several countries entering the United States, which would have taken effect this week. The open-ended ban, announced last month, targeted people from Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Chad and North Korea, as well as certain government officials from Venezuela. It was the third version of a policy that had previously targeted some Muslim-majority countries but had been restricted by the courts. Tuesday's ruling sets up another high stakes battle over Trump's executive authority which legal experts expect will ultimately land in the U.S. Supreme Court. Trump's first travel ban in January caused chaos and protests at U.S. airports before judges halted it. The state of Hawaii sued to block Trump's latest travel restrictions, arguing that federal immigration law did not give him the authority to impose them on six of those countries. Hawaii did not challenge entry restrictions relating to North Korea and Venezuela. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson in Honolulu said Hawaii was likely to succeed in proving that Trump's latest travel ban violates federal immigration law. The policy "suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the entry of more than 150 million nationals from six specified countries would be 'detrimental to the interests of the United States,'" Watson wrote. The White House in a statement said the ruling was "dangerously flawed" and that it was confident the courts would ultimately uphold Trump's policy. "These restrictions are vital to ensuring that foreign nations comply with the minimum security standards required for the integrity of our immigration system and the security of our nation," the statement said. The Justice Department called Watson's ruling "incorrect" and said it would appeal "in an expeditious manner." Story continues Following the ruling, the U.S. State Department instructed embassies and consulates around the world to "resume regular processing of visas" for citizens of Chad, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, a department official said on condition of anonymity. The department will carry out the proclamation for North Korea and Venezuela "with the objective of maximizing national security," the official said, because the order did not apply to restrictions on those countries. As a candidate, Trump had promised "a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States." In announcing the newest travel restrictions, the White House had portrayed them as necessary consequences for countries that did not meet new requirements for vetting of immigrants and issuing of visas. Those requirements were shared in July with foreign governments, which had 50 days to make improvements if needed, the White House said. A number of countries made improvements by enhancing the security of travel documents or the reporting of passports that were lost or stolen. Others did not, sparking the restrictions. Immigrant advocacy groups cheered the Hawaii ruling. "We're glad, but not surprised, that President Trump's illegal and unconstitutional Muslim ban has been blocked once again," Omar Jadwat, director of the American Civil Liberties Union Immigrants Rights Project, said in a statement. The ACLU and other groups have filed separate challenges to Trump's policy in a Maryland federal court. A ruling is still pending. In the Hawaii case, the judge said that the ban's national security rationale was undermined by not knowing how the president settled on the countries designated by the ban. The judge also said the proclamation likely runs afoul of a prohibition in immigration law on nationality-based discrimination in issuing visas. Watson had blocked Trump's second travel ban in March. In a statement on Tuesday, Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said: "Today is another victory for the rule of law." Kiyanoush Razaghi, an immigration attorney with the Catholic Legal Immigration Network who has many Iranian clients, said Iranians still have problems when applying for U.S. visas, including particularly lengthy wait times for security checks. Razaghi said he has told his clients: "You can celebrate, there is no travel ban right now, but be careful because that doesn't mean you are going to get a visa in a reasonable amount of time." (Additional reporting by Andrew Chung in New York and Mica Rosenberg, Lawrence Hurley and Roberta Rampton in Washington; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Tom Brown, Grant McCool) U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan (L) meets with his Japanese counterpart Vice Foreign Minister Shinsuke Sugiyama at the Foreign Ministry's Iikura guest house in Tokyo, Japan October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Issei Kato By Tim Kelly and Michelle Nichols TOKYO/UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The United States is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with North Korea, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan said on Tuesday, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. "Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks," Sullivan said in Tokyo after talks with his Japanese counterpart. "Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail," he said. DPRK stands for North Koreas official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert highlighted U.S. diplomatic efforts by Sullivan and others to pressure North Korea to give up its weapons programmes by encouraging implementation of international sanctions. Nauert told a regular briefing that sanctions were choking off money supply to North Korea and it was feeling the effect, but even so Pyongyang was "not showing that they are anywhere near desiring to have talks." "We hope that this diplomatic approach will be successful in the end," Nauert said, while adding of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson: "He's got to be the most optimistic guy in the U.S. government." Tension has soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Leaflets, apparently from North Korea, calling Trump a "mad dog" and depicting gruesome images of him have turned up across central Seoul, adding an unusually personal element to North Korean propaganda. Story continues "The situation on the Korean peninsula where the attention of the whole world is focused has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment," North Koreas Deputy U.N. Ambassador Kim In Ryong told a U.N. General Assembly committee on Monday. "As long as one does not take part in the U.S. military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country," according to Kim's prepared remarks for the discussion on nuclear weapons. Kim did not read that section out loud. South Korea and the United States began week-long joint naval drills in the waters around the Korean peninsula on Monday, involving about 40 ships from both militaries, including the nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, South Korea's defence ministry said. North Korean state media said on Tuesday the allies' "desperate efforts" to block North Korea's advance only showed it should continue its nuclear programme "to the last." "The DPRK has been fully ready for all the U.S. is resorting to, including sanctions, pressure and military option, as it has the tremendous nuclear force for self-defence and irresistible strength of self-reliance and self-development," the official KCNA news agency said in a commentary. Asked about the North Korean envoy's warning of nuclear war, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said it would not be in anyone's interest. "China still hopes that all parties, in this situation where things on the Korean peninsula are highly complex and sensitive, can exercise restraint and do more to benefit the lowering of tensions in the region," Lu told a daily news briefing. The U.N. Security Council has ratcheted up sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since 2006. The most recent U.N. sanctions banned exports of coal, iron ore and seafood, aimed at cutting off a third of the North's total annual exports of $3 billion. Experts say North Korea has been scrambling to find alternative sources of hard currency to keep its economy afloat and advance its weapons programme. On Monday, the head of cyber-intelligence at BAE Systems Plc said North Korea's Lazarus hacking group was probably responsible for a recent cyber heist in Taiwan. Taiwan's Central News Agency said last week that hackers had sought to steal some $60 million from the Far Eastern Bank, but it had recovered all but $500,000. BAE Systems and others have previously linked Lazarus to an $81-million cyber heist at Bangladesh's central bank last year. North Korea has recently allowed citizens as young as 12 to bet on horse races for the first time as the country scrambles to unearth new sources of hard currency amid intensifying international sanctions. Punters had previously risked three years' hard labour for gambling in the tightly controlled state, but the growing importance of private markets means more people have money to spend on leisure, experts said. Lee Sang-keun, a researcher at the Institute of Unification Studies at Seoul's Ewha Womans University, said wealthy North Koreans had to pay for such activities with Chinese or U.S. currency. "Many North Koreans make lots of money from the market, dine at hamburger restaurants and go shopping, all of which help fatten regime coffers. Thats part of the reason why the regime still has some financial latitude, despite international sanctions," Lee said. (Reporting by Tim Kelly and Michelle Nichols; Additional reporting by Jim Finkle in TORONTO, Hyonhee Shin, Christine Kim and James Pearson in SEOUL and David Brunnstrom in WASHINGTON; Writing by Lincoln Feast; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and James Dalgleish) By Kiyoshi Takenaka and Ami Miyazaki NANMOKU, Japan (Reuters) - Chikara Imai, 73, is quick to dismiss the new parties in Sunday's national election in Japan, saying old ties with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's Liberal Democratic Party is what the country's most elderly village needs for survival. Nanmoku, 107 km (67 miles) northwest of Tokyo, is at the forefront of Japan's battle against an ageing and shrinking population. Its population has halved over the past 20 years to 1,963, and with a median age of 70.6, Nanmoku is now Japan's oldest municipality. Nanmoku and places like it across Japan are a key support base for the LDP, which has been in power for most of the past six decades. "Rural Japan is no Tokyo. Those people may say something ideal in Tokyo, something like 'Let's change Japan'. But here, it won't strike home," Imai said. Sunday's lower house election pits Abe's LDP-led coalition against two brand new parties: the Party of Hope headed by popular Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike; and the centre-left Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, which emerged from a breakup of the traditional opposition Democratic Party. But Koike's "reformist, conservative" challenge doesn't resonate much in Nanmoku. Most municipalities are shrinking in Japan, so far the only important developed country with a declining population. They look to Tokyo for a lifeline. "For back country dwellers, strong ties with the central government come in handy when we need to ask for help in such times as a natural disaster. This village has no option but to support them," the 73-year-old Imai said. Gunma prefecture, where Nanmoku is located, has long been an LDP stronghold and has produced four prime ministers, including Keizo Obuchi, premier from 1998-2000. DEVIL'S TONGUE On Sunday, the Nanmoku municipality will provide transportation to elderly villagers who would otherwise have difficulty getting to the polls. Story continues Mountains account for 90 percent of Nanmoku's total land area, leaving little space for farming and housing. Some of the houses, built along a river running through the village, look abandoned. Few customers come by the several general shops that remain open. The village's sole remaining elementary school has just 24 students this year, down from a high of 1,632 in 1959, when Nanmoku operated three grade schools. Farms that used to grow devil's tongue, a starchy potato-like plant, have yielded to large-scale operations in other municipalities blessed with ample farm land. "Until this day, we have not found a substitute (industry)," Nanmoku Mayor Saijo Hasegawa told Reuters. With independent revenue sources covering less than 20 percent of the village's budget, Hasegawa sees a continuity in government support for Nanmoku as essential, and is wary of a change in government. "There's no such thing as one-year plan to fight population decline. It takes 20, 30 years for any measures to take effect," Hasegawa said. "In a change of government, politicians tend to deny everything about the former government, which is scary." Japan's demographic challenge is one of the biggest facing the new government after Sunday's elections. People aged 65 or older account for 27.2 percent of the total population, the highest on record, while the population is forecast to fall by nearly a third by 2065 when almost 40 percent will be 65 or older. Japans government has earmarked a record 32.5 trillion yen ($29 billion) this fiscal year to pay for social security services, the bulk of which is spent on the elderly. Social security outlays account for roughly a third of this year's national budget. RECRUITING CITY-DWELLERS As part of a drive to tackle Japan's demographic time-bomb, the government in 2009 started a programme to financially help local municipalities recruit urbanites to work in agriculture and other sectors for eventual settlement. Yohka Tanaka, who grew up in Tokyo and went to college in the United States, moved to Nanmoku two years ago through the programme. He is now working on natural farming, which uses no pesticides or fertilisers. Tanaka, 26, aims to prove the viability of such farming so environmentally-conscious young people will follow in his foot steps. "This place is perfect for natural farming ... As long as I stick around, the village won't disappear." For Shigeyuki Kaneta, a comparatively young resident at 46 who owns a confectionary shop, escalating tensions over North Korea does raise that distinct possibility. North Korea has launched two ballistic missiles that flew over Japan in recent months. "It's a dangerous world," said Kaneta, who believes the LDP is better equipped to handle security matters. "Strange objects are flying around. If they fell (on Japanese soil), we wouldn't (just) be discussing population decline." ($1 = 111.79 yen) (Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka; Editing by Bill Tarrant) The last in the second series of Skateboarder And Podcast sees recent Alien Workshop recruit Daryl Dominguez talk starting skateboarding in North London, getting on AWS, skating in Thailand, his work with Skate Nepal and more. Press play below and enjoy! Check out more from the podcast here. This is the Daryl Dominguez episode! A skateboarder and globetrotter, VANS European Team rider, Alien Workshop ripper, & one of the folks behind Skate Nepal, a non-profit whose aim is to spread awareness for the social, creative and cultural benefits of skateboarding to both the younger and older generations of Nepal. We discuss his humble beginnings sweeping Playstation Skatepark, to being one of the UKs finest with what seems like no fixed abode! This episode is inspiring stuff. The F13 files, part 4 - dealing with Elsevier Posted on 31 October 2017 by Ari Jokimaki Elsevier's journal Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews published a paper in 2013 (Florides et al. 2013, "F13" from now on) which we found problematic. We analyzed the paper and communicated our findings to Elsevier. Our main findings were that much of F13 text was copy/pasted from other sources without proper attribution and that F13 contained many false claims. In this series of posts, I'll go through the problems in F13 and in Elsevier actions. There are four posts: The F13 files, part 1 - the copy/paste job The F13 files, part 2 - the content analysis The F13 files, part 3 - the reference list analysis and other problems The F13 files, part 4 - dealing with Elsevier Part 4 - dealing with Elsevier - first contacts In parts 1-3 we discussed the possible plagiarism and the problems in the content of F13. In this fourth part we will go through what happened when we communicated our findings to Elsevier. Here is a brief chronology of events, which I explain in more detail below: March 14, 2014: we become aware of F13 and start our analysis. June 27, 2014: our first contact attempt to Elsevier. September 10, 2014: first response from Elsevier - basically just receiving the information from us. July 5, 2015: After us asking for the status of the issue a couple of times, and after much waiting, the Editor-in-Chief finally contacts us for the first time - the issue has been communicated to interested parties. We are asked to write and submit a comment paper. March 31, 2016: after much work, we submit our comment paper. March 21, 2017: after several contact attempts trying to ask about the status of our submission, we get a response from Elsevier saying that they had sent us F13's reply already in May, 2016, which we didn't receive. May 14, 2017: The F13 reply is re-sent to us. The Editor-in-Chief rejects our comment paper because F13 didn't like it, and asks us to write another paper where the F13 issue would be reduced to just one example issue among other similar issues. We decline the offer. After our initial analysis of F13 (which started on March 14, 2014) we made our first contact attempt with Elsevier on June 27, 2014. We used the contact form available on the website of the Journal. It is supposed to create an e-mail (or something) to the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal, who is Lawrence Kazmerski. We sent our analysis about possible plagiarism and a brief overview about the problems of the content. We waited for a while for a reaction from Elsevier, but didn't receive one. Usually one would expect at least an acknowledgement of the receipt of the communication. On August 4, 2014, we asked them if they had received what we submitted. There was no response. We decided to try another route to contact the Journal. We used Elsevier's general contact form to ask if something had gone wrong in our contact attempts (we did this on September 9, 2014). This time we got a response first from a customer support person and then from Katherine Eve, the Executive Publisher of the Journal. The Executive Publisher asked us to resend our material to her, which we did. She also asked for some more information about our role in the issue. After initial exchange of messages with Katherine Eve, we were left waiting for further developments. On January 15, 2015, after no developments, we sent a query about the status of the issue. Katherine Eve sent a note back saying that she was unsure about the status but that she would check it. Once again we waited for some developments and as there were none, we asked them about the situation on April 27, 2015. We also mentioned our willingness to go public with our analyses and we expressed our concern about the situation, as it had been quite a long time since our first contact. We waited for a response and after two weeks Katherine Eve sent a note to us (on May 12, 2015), where she urged the Editor-in-Chief, Lawrence Kazmerski, to give us an update about the issue. Next, the issue went into waiting mode again. Then, finally, on July 5, 2015, we received the first e-mail from the Editor-in-Chief. He explained that he had been traveling and that there had been problems in contacting Florides et al. He had also discussed the issue with F13 reviewers (apparently there had been three reviewers for the paper). The reviewers agreed that some action was needed based on our findings. The Editor-in-Chief then invited us to write a more thorough comment paper on F13. There were a few things to criticize in this first contact from the Editor-in-Chief. Although he did give some information about what had happened, there was no explanation why it took him well over a year to respond to us. I would have expected him to contact us to let us know that he was handling the issue and was discussing it with the authors and the reviewers. Instead, we were just left hanging with no information about the situation. Another thing is that right from the beginning, the Editor-in-Chief focused on our criticisms about the content and he showed very little interest in the issue of possible plagiarism. He did say that the issue was being dealt with, but he also said that he felt the content criticism to be the more important issue. This is strange considering that plagiarism seems to be a more common retraction reason than flawed content. We responded that we would like to write the comment paper the Editor-in-Chief was asking for. The comment paper We then started working on the comment paper. This took us quite a long time (debunking false claims is far more time-consuming than making them), but eventually we got it finished. We sent the comment paper to Elsevier on March 31, 2016. Again, the response took a while, but on April 4, 2016 the Editor-in-Chief responded and explained that he had been traveling and said he would go through our paper. After this, things went silent again. We weren't that worried, though, because we thought that peer-review and getting a response from Florides et al. would take some time. Finally, on January 17, 2017, we sent out an e-mail asking about the status of our submission. We got no response. On January 26, we sent another e-mail repeating the query. We got no response. On March 7, we sent out yet another query. This time we added a note: "We submitted the paper almost a year ago and we haven't heard anything about it since." We got no response. On March 21, we approached Katherine Eve describing our situation. We got a response where she told us that she was under the impression that the Editor-in-Chief was waiting for a revised comment from us. Soon after that we got an e-mail from the Editor-in-Chief saying that he had sent the Florides et al. reply to us, and subsequent discussion revealed that this apparently happened on May 2, 2016. Then he noted that the issue was a complaint about plagiarism and that he should discuss with Elsevier people about the issue. We responded with a note where we summarized the previous steps in the process noting especially that the issue was both a plagiarism complaint and a complaint about some flaws in the content. He responded that we should get a chance to look at Florides et al reply and then we would go forward with the publication of our comment. He then said that he would send us the Florides et al reply again, once he had discussed this with Elsevier people. So once again we were left waiting. On April 3, the Editor-in-Chief sent us a note that he had been unsuccessful in contacting Elsevier people. Then we waited some more. On April 24, we sent an e-mail asking about the situation. We got no response. The response from Florides et al. Finally, on May 14, 2017, the Editor-in-Chief sent us an e-mail containing the response from Florides et al. In the response, Florides et al. didn't answer any of our points but instead they assumed the role of a victim and concentrated on attacking our academic credentials and suggested we were working on an agenda. In their first argument, they suggested that our comment paper was unprofessional. They justified this by highlighting our reference analysis, in which they did not seem to like that we had categorized their references into "mainstream", "alternative", and "contrarian". The last category in particular didn't seem to be of their liking. Nor did they seem to like our use of the term "logical fallacies" to describe their logical fallacies. They even complained that we had categorized the severity of the problems in their paper as "major" and "minor" although we did that for their own benefit (we wanted to acknowledge that some of the problems were only minor ones - which we also mentioned in the comment paper). Their second complaint was that we had only analyzed their chapters 1 and 2. They also claimed that we didn't mention the sun in our comment paper. This is strange because we did briefly address some of the sun related issues in their paper. We limited ourselves to full analysis of chapters 1 and 2 only, because it would have taken far too much time to do the full paper. Even the two chapters took a lot of time. It is far easier and faster to make false claims (especially if you just copy-paste them from somewhere else) than to correct them. Their last argument was a complaint that it took us so much time to write the comment paper given that there were two authors and 8 people mentioned in the acknowledgement section working for the paper, and they noted that they did not want to write a reply to our paragraph-by-paragraph analysis because it would be too much work. In other words, we had shown plenty of errors in their paper, some of which were quite serious, but they showed no interest in correcting them. So, in their reply, Florides et al. didn't answer any of our points but instead made some hand waving type arguments. Furthermore, there was no mention of the plagiarism issue in their response. The resolution In his e-mail to us, the Editor-in-Chief also told us what they would like to do next. He had told us on two different occasions that regardless of Florides et al. response, we would get published. But now, he told us that because Florides et al. didn't like our comments, we couldn't proceed as planned. Instead, he suggested that we write yet another paper, where we would review some cases where climate issues have been misrepresented like Florides et al. did. In this new paper, Florides et al. would be just one example among others. We had already written a brief commentary for them in our initial contact, and we had written a more thorough comment paper when they asked for one. We thought that we had given them plenty already, so we decided not to write another paper for them. There was one thing left, though. There was no mention of the plagiarism issue in the e-mail from the Editor-in-Chief, so we asked him about it. He told us that they had checked the issue with "iThenticate", which didn't show high similarity. We don't know why this is so, but in this case iThenticate doesn't seem to show correct result, because our own analysis clearly shows high copy/paste percentage, as was shown in the post 1 of this series. But it seems that our plagiarism complaint also was a dead end. Conclusion and discussion We have shown that F13 was largely copy/pasted from other sources without indication that the texts in question had been copy/pasted. In our analysis of 27 of F13 paragraphs, 21 were found to contain copy/pasted content. We found that the content of F13 was largely flawed. In our analysis of the first two chapters in F13, we found 43 individual problems. Of 27 paragraphs analyzed, 19 contained problems. There was a large spectrum of problems of which misleading discussion and logical fallacies were the most common ones. We checked other paragraphs of F13 and discussed some of the problems there as well. It seems that problems with the content continue elsewhere in the paper as well. We also analyzed F13's reference list. We found that 40 % of the references were non-peer-reviewed documents. We also found that 38 % of references were to documents taking a non-mainstream position on anthropogenic global warming or related issues. This is far more than is expected from a review paper like F13. Communicating these problems to Elsevier turned out to be very difficult and slow. Elsevier refused to publish our findings. As the end-result, F13 is still in the published content of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, and the Journal and Elsevier continue as if nothing has happened. Some criticism on the actions of Elsevier and the Editor-in-Chief: It took the Editor-in-Chief over a year to send us the first e-mail on the issue. Little serious attention was paid to the detailed plagiarism complaint. Little serious attention was paid to the technical flaws either, perhaps because the topic was really outside the journal's focus. During the last e-mail exchange with the Editor-in-Chief, it became apparent that no peer-review had been performed for our comment paper. The publication of F13 in Elsevier's Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews is an example of a failure of the peer-review and editorial processes of the Journal. It is our opinion, that F13 should never have been published in a scientific journal. We also think that F13 should have been retracted after we pointed out the problems in it. Note (October 25, 2017): There was an apparently false statement in this post regarding the usage of iThenticate in checking for possible plagiarism. iThenticate doesn't just compare two documents but checks the document against all sources it can access. One paragraph under "The Resolution" section has been corrected due to this. This was the original paragraph: "There was one thing left, though. There was no mention of the plagiarism issue in the e-mail from the Editor-in-Chief, so we asked him about it. He told us that they had checked the issue with "iThenticate", which didn't show high similarity. This means that they took F13 and their earlier book chapter and compared them to each other. We had informed them that the issue was not just copying from their own book chapter, but that they had copied from other sources as well. Comparing F13 to only one source gives low similarity but comparing it to all the sources gives, as we have shown in our plagiarism analysis, a high similarity. But it seems that our plagiarism complaint also was a dead end." 0 0 Printable Version | Link to this page Puerto Rico faces a monumental rebuilding task following Hurricanes Maria and Irma, one that could amount to an existential struggle. Several weeks after landfall, only 15 percent of the islands population has electricity. Because its a territory, Puerto Rico lacks the capacity to print its own currency or raise taxes significantly, and it lacks real representation in Washington. As a result, neither the executive branch nor the legislative branchin particular, this executive branch and this legislative branchcan be expected to approach its recovery with any urgency. Advertisement Puerto Rico was already coping with serious questions about its future before the hurricane hit. The islands economy never recovered from the Great Recession, fiscal problems continued to mount, and the territory, laboring under an unpayable $73 billion debt load, effectively filed for bankruptcy in May. Many residents have simply stopped believing in the future. Between 2010 and 2015 alone, Puerto Rico lost 6.6 percent of its population. Hundreds of thousands of Puerto Ricans have moved to Florida, New York, or other states. The birth rate has fallen sharply; between 2010 and 2015, the number of babies born in island fell 26 percent. The pace of decline is likely to accelerate in the wake of Irma and Marias devastation, which only exacerbates the structural financial problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The task of imagining a future for Puerto Rico is enormously complex. The task of imagining a future for Puerto Rico is enormously complex. It has to get the islands infrastructure back on its feet, make sure the functioning businesses (tourism, pharmaceutical factories) remain functioning, and work out viable long-term financial arrangements with its many creditors. At the same time, it has to ensure that infrastructure is more resilient to future weather events and plan for a future that will look fundamentally different: fewer schools and hospitals, fewer people, perhaps fewer towns. Its not clear what Puerto Rico will look like in 2025, but it is clear it will look significantly different than it did in 2015. In addition to generous recovery funds, Puerto Rico is clearly in dire need of a chief restructuring officer. Not an emergency manager with carte blanche to supplant or ignore elected officials, but an executive to advise and develop strategy. The island certainly wants the help; Gov. Ricardo Rossello has called for unprecedented aid. But who? Nobody in Washington is eager to step up. And the elected officials on the island dont have the institutional or individual experience working with Wall Street, pushing legislation through Congress, or envisioning wholesale change in economic systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Think about the job. It requires someone who has a really good financial mind; has a long history of dealing with turning around financially troubled entities; has a basic sense of decency; speaks the language of Wall Street and has no problem telling creditors to stuff it; has led an entity the size of a small state; has shown the capacity to analyze complex systems, develop effective policies that assist all citizens, and then marshal bipartisan support to make effective changes; has sufficient personal wealth that he or she is both incorruptible and can take on the task for the low wage it offers; and wont be tempted to use the gig as a springboard for higher office. Advertisement Advertisement In short, it requires Mitt Romney. Advertisement Advertisement To a degree, Romneys public image is associated with his failed bid to unseat President Obama in 2012 when he ran a highly partisan, often disingenuous campaign. Which is a shame. Because until that time, Romney had shown himself to be one of the more competent people in American public life. And as anyone who watched the fine 2014 documentary Mitt can attest, he was a far more decent, sympathetic, and admirable person than he was a candidate. Unfortunately, in the five years since 2012, he has generally stuck to the background and avoided positions of responsibility. If he couldnt be the CEO of the whole country, Romney apparently decided that hed be the CEO of nothing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Romneys name has surfaced in Utah politics as a potential successor to Sen. Orrin Hatch. But Romney and his talents would be wasted in the do-nothing Senate, just as they would have been wasted if President Trump had appointed him to be his secretary of state. They would, however, be perfectly suited to helping Puerto Rico restructure. Lets review quickly. Romney had a long career as a private equity investor and executive at Bain Capital, a discipline that requires the simultaneous application of business engineering and financial engineering to a range of different industriesand a willingness to resolve huge financial problems by walking away from them or restructuring them. (Which is exactly what Puerto Rico needs.) Advertisement Romney wasnt a particularly good political campaigner. But his instincts in the boardroom are fantastic. In the 1990s, Romney stepped in to rescue the Salt Lake City Olympics after a bribery scandal had cast a pall over the upcoming games. As sponsors and backers grew antsy, the 2002 Winter Olympics were facing a $379 million deficit. Romney acted quickly and imposed a sense of fiscal rectitude. At meetings, board members were asked to fork over a dollar for a slice of pizza or a soda. Romney nixed five-star travel accommodations, scrapped costly segments of the ceremonies and swapped out color marketing brochures for black-and-white, as Time noted. He then rallied both the private and public sectors, lining up new sponsors and getting a record $342 million in direct funding from federal appropriators. The result: Salt Lake sold 95% of available tickets, harnessed the contributions of some 23,000 volunteers and finished with a surplus of about $100 million, much of which was funneled into a fund for facility upkeep. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next, Romney served as the executive of a territory somewhat larger than Puerto Rico. From 2003 to 2007, he served a single term as governor of Massachusetts. The patrician Republican was often at odds with the Democratic legislature, and his term was not exactly a period of extensive law-making and reform (he issued more than 800 vetoes). Except in one important area: health care. Working with Democrats, Romney engineered a new system of mandates, exchanges, subsidies, and requirements on insurance companies, essentially the precursor to Obamacare. After the passage of this well-designed plan aimed at improving the lot of typical citizens, Massachusetts virtually eliminated the problem of noncoverage. Alas, running against Obama in 2012 left him unable, or unwilling, to champion his most significant achievement. Advertisement Its not clear precisely what the plan would be. But its pretty clear how someone like Romney would proceed: Audit the finances to get a firm grip on the situation, strike deals with creditors, line up new investors to help fund the region going forward. At the same time, enlist public and private entities to work on a plan to ensure that the scope of Puerto Ricos operationsschools, public services, utilitiesare both functional and appropriately sized. The politics of this might be messy: Romney is not particularly liked by Democrats or Republicans. And he has been antagonistic to Trump. But theres no downside for either party to embracing a role for Romney. If he should fail, they get to blame him. And if he succeeds, hes now too old to parlay it into a run for higher office. Romney wasnt a particularly good political campaigner. His instincts on the campaign trail werent always great. But his instincts in the boardroom are fantastic. He is able to make plans, strategize, and focus intently on execution. And he has demonstrated an ability not simply to get things done, but to do so with a sense of empathy and shared purpose. The president may not be capable of that challenge, but someone has to be. Effective presentations are vital in securing new business and helping a firm grow. Thanks to advancements in technology, small businesses now have a wealth of tools available to them for delivering powerful presentations, quickly and efficiently. Best Presentation Apps Heres ten of the best business presentation apps for your smartphone designed to help you win over your audience. MightyMeeting MightyMeeting is a presentation sharing tool for Android smartphones. You can use the app to upload presentations to the cloud. Employees, colleagues and clients can then join a meeting room to view your presentation from anywhere in the world. Those with access to the presentation can use an interactive whiteboard to share notes, images, graphs and sketches. The presentations on MightyMeeting can be sent out as an PDF document. The MightyMeeting app can be downloaded for free on Android devices. Haiku Deck You can create a presentation in just a few minutes with the help of the Haiku Deck app. This intuitive app enables you to import images from social media sites. The app also allows you to sync your presentations between your iPhone, iPad or the internet. The Haiku Deck app is free to download onto iPhone and iPad. Keynote Keynote is a powerful presentation app, which comes complete with cinematic transitions to help professionals make world-class presentations. With iCloud built in, businesses can keep presentations fully secured and accessible across different devices with Keynote. Keynote is available on the App Store for IOS devices. It can be downloaded for $9.99. AIO Remote AIO Remote is an app that turns your Android device into a presentation remote. The app can be used as a nifty tool when you are presenting PowerPoint slides from a computer or from another presentation app. With the AIO Remote there is no need to switch back and forth between devices, as, using the File Manager option on the AIO Remote, you can find what youre looking for from your Android device. The AIO Remote app can be downloaded for free. Google Slides With the Google Slides app you can create and edit presentations and share them with others from your Android smartphone or tablet. This intuitive app enables you to not only create new presentations but edit existing files as well. You can share and collaborate presentations at the same time from remote destinations. Slides can be added and rearranged in presentations. As all presentations are saved in the cloud, you dont have to worry about losing your work with the Google Slides app. See Also: How to Turn Your Customer Complaints into Business Benefits Google Slides is free to download and can be used on both Android smartphones and iPhones. WPS Office The WPS Office is a simple yet effective presentation app. The app has a range of features designed to make presentations easy to create and effective, including the ability to insert, resize or crop images. Office documents can be exported to PDF with ease with the WPS Office app. The WPS Office app is available to downloaded for free on the App Store for iOS devices. It is also available on Android mobile devices. Microsoft PowerPoint Microsoft PowerPoint can be downloaded onto an iPad, iPhone or Android smartphones. The PowerPoint app enables businesses to create and edit impactful presentations whilst on the go. The presentations created on the PowerPoint app can be accessed in the cloud. Microsoft PowerPoint app is free to download onto iOS and Android mobile devices. FlowVella With the FlowVella app you can combine words, images, links, videos and PDFs to create an effective presentation whilst on the go. Another great feature of FlowVella is the fact you can record videos of your presentations and share them anywhere. The FlowVella app is compatible with iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch devices and can be downloaded for free. SlideShark UPDATE: As of December 31, 2018, SlideShark has been discontinued. SlideShark is used by sales professionals and other business presenters to present and share PowerPoint presentations from iPhone, iPad or iPod devices. You can broadcast SlideShark presentations over the internet in real-time to attendees of your meetings from your iOS device, regardless of what device they are using. You can upload PowerPoint files via the SlideShark website, open files from email attachments or import files from cloud storage. The SlideShark app is free for individuals and costs $149 a year for the team edition. ShowPad ShowPad is specifically designed to help salespeople present and share content that matters to help them shine above competition, sell more products and ultimately grow their business. The ShowPad app is an easy-to-use sales presentation platform whereby sales teams can present dynamic content in presentation format. Presentations can be costimized and used again for different sales situations with the ShowPad app. All meetings, presentations and activities can be easily logged and shared with ShowPad. The ShowPad app can be downloaded for free onto both Android and iOS smartphones. A chargeback happens when a payment is reversed by the customers bank. Its called chargeback fraud when bad actors cheat this process. Instead of contacting a merchant for a refund, they go right to their financial institution. There are three types. Criminal Credit Card Fraud Chargebacks . A criminal steals a card and makes purchases. And they try to get money back. . A criminal steals a card and makes purchases. And they try to get money back. Friendly Fraud Claims. The card owner buys something and then files for a chargeback anyway. The card owner buys something and then files for a chargeback anyway. Merchant Errors. This one happens with a merchant account. They show up on a statement when a customer doesnt get something they paid for. They happen due to processing errors, accidental duplicate charges, and charges for canceled subscriptions. What Is Chargeback Fraud? Chargebacks that involve friendly fraud and/or unauthorized purchases are a big problem for entrepreneurs. They are not just a cost of doing business anymore. Consider the fact that most online merchants (75%) saw an increase in attempts at illegitimate chargebacks in 2021. READ MORE: 10 Tips to Avoid Fraudulent Chargebacks from Online Sales What Rules Govern the Chargeback Process? The process behind issuing digital bank transactions like chargebacks is simple. Heres an overview..an authorized cardholder cant resolve a purchase issue with the business. However, the customer can take the dispute to the bank. Heres the rest of the process. The bank listens to the cardholders claim against the merchant. They are looking for a valid reason to settle the dispute with the chargeback. Most banks side with customers looking for this type of refund. The bank issues a provisional credit to the cardholder. The customer gets the purchase amount and the merchants acquirer gets notified. The bank informs the merchants about the dispute. Merchants can fight this kind of cardholder dispute. A rebuttal letter can be filed against these consumer disputes. The issuing bank will want to see supporting evidence. Even merchants who lose a customer dispute can go to arbitration. The card network gets involved. Remember there are chargeback reason codes. They are alphanumeric and issued by the banks. There are different systems used when customers want to reverse a purchase. False declines of good purchases happen when transactions arent properly reviewed. False positives are similar, but an account can be shut down. How Does Chargeback Fraud Happen? Friendly fraud chargebacks are common digital transactions. Here are several ways these happen. A customer buys a product but forgets about it. This happens in certain industries more than in others. For example, a customer can order pizza late at night and then forget about it. They might not recognize the charge when the bill comes in on their credit card statement. Sometimes a chargeback is simply a merchant error. A business might accidentally duplicate a charge and the credit card information shows this. A household member can make an unauthorized purchase triggering a chargeback. True fraud is a criminal act. Where a stolen card gets used, the criminal makes a purchase and then tries to collect. There are legitimate chargebacks too. Misplaced orders and shipping errors account for these. How Do You Prevent Fraudulent Chargebacks? Being proactive is the first step to chargeback fraud prevention. Distinguish between cyber shoplifting and a legitimate transaction with these tips. These work with excellent customer service to prevent chargebacks. Keep An Eye On Order Sizes. You can fight friendly fraud starting with a simple tip. Unusually large numbers of items or big dollar amounts can be tipoffs to fraud. Following Protocols Makes a Difference. This is another excellent way to separate a legitimate charge from a bad one. Online transactions look for more than card information. Some protocols look for customers IP addresses and card verification value CVV . Watch Out For Overcharges. Another red flag is a transaction that overcharges the card. Fraudsters try to add to the transaction amount and then pay out to a third party. Make Sure Your Merchant Description is Clear. If consumers dont recognize a transaction, they might report it to their banks. Make sure your business merchant descriptor matches up to the storefront. Good chargeback management involves checking your billing descriptor to reduce fraud. Keep An Eye On The IP Address. A cardholders payment information can be the red flag you need to watch for. Keep an eye out for high-risk IP addresses that come from certain countries. Like Russia and Malaysia for example. Can People Get Caught for Friendly Fraud? Most states make friendly fraud a punishable offense. New York lawyers Bachner & Associates, PC report you can go to jail for one to three years. And pay a fine of up to $10,000. What Are the Chargeback Fraud Consequences? This type of criminal fraud is a big issue for merchants. And any type of dispute can affect the VISA cards of customers too. If youre still asking is chargeback fraud illegal? Check out these consequences. For Business: Small businesses get hit with fees. Its the number one reason they want to avoid friendly fraud chargebacks. Every time friendly fraud occurs, or any type, merchants need to pay a fee. A chargeback system has a threshold. Fines get levied to the merchant directly if these are exceeded and disputing chargebacks take time. Amass enough chargebacks and a bank will close a merchant account. Chargeback Consequences for Consumers. When a customer commits fraud, there are consequences. Small businesses can prevent friendly fraud by educating them. Chargebacks can take months. A legitimate refund is much faster. Even family fraud where a family member uses a cardholders payment information has consequences. The authorized cardholder can be penalized. This type of fraud can even close bank accounts. How Do You Fight a Fraudulent Chargeback? Chargeback costs rise the more times a customer makes one. Research says chargeback disputes can cost up to 250% above the original transaction. Merchants can fight back against fraud. A rebuttal letter states your case. Its called representment. Include info on fraud prevention methods, specific customer info, and if a previous purchase has been made. Heres some other info on handling disputes this way. Is Friendly Fraud Hard to Prove? Yes, friendly fraud can take different forms so it is hard to detect. Merchants and banks often hear customers didnt receive the goods when they really want to avoid paying. Or, clients say the customer experience was below grade. A legitimate purchase was made but the client has buyers remorse. They might say items dont match online descriptions. Businesses make proving friendly fraud more difficult too. They dont want to flag friendly fraud accounts. They only flag those who commit friendly fraud some of the time. See Also: How to Slap Down Ecommerce Fraud in Your Small Business By PTI: Mumbai, Oct 17 (PTI) Indian pharmaceutical exporters are under pressure from weakening regulated markets, as exports to North America are likely to be modest, while Asia Pacific markets will have limited growth headroom owing to price controls, a report said. Rising competitive intensity in the US markets is likely to create a challenging operating landscape for large exporters leading to contraction in overall exports of pharmaceutical formulations to the regulated markets in the near term and weak-to-moderate pace growth over the medium-to-long term, says India Rating and Research (Ind-Ra). advertisement The rating agency believes contribution from other regulated markets is unlikely to grow significantly in the near to medium term, given limited significance to Indian exporters. Exports to North America are likely to be modest, while exports to Australia and New Zealand will have limited growth headroom owing to price controls. Exports to Japan are likely to be in a recovery mode driven by a large geriatric care opportunity, but participation is likely to be limited owing to stringent regulatory standards, the report said. Exports to regulated markets maintained a volatile growth since FY15 after recording a notable CAGR of 26.3 per cent over FY11-14. The volatility is attributed to the largest regulated market, the US which has a share of 71.6 per cent of regulated market exports, witnessed a weak growth in FY15, although recovered in FY16 and observed a sharp moderation in FY17. Weakening of currencies in Europe since FY15 and the UK since FY17 on account of political issues also kept Indian exports under pressure. In FY17, Indian exports of pharmaceutical formulations to the US peaked to a seven year high of 39.4 per cent of the overall exports. The agency expects base businesses for large players to contract 5 per cent-10 per cent per annum, amid pricing pressures from consolidating buyer groups and waning exclusivities leading to pressures on operating margins. While favourable demographics reinforce market fundamentals, restrained budgets are likely to impact market growth for patented and generic drugs due to pricing pressures. Despite the euro making a modest recovery in Q1FY18, any currency shock due to political or monetary policy stance is likely to hurt exports. Nearly 16.6 per cent decline in pound post Brexit, slumped exports to the UK during FY17. The weakness in the pound is likely to sustain over the next one to two years, thus keeping Indian exports under pressure. As a result, we expect negative-to-lowly positive growth in exports in the near to medium term, Ind-Ra said. PTI AP NP RDS --- ENDS --- In the Franciscan Square of Bratislava stands a tall Marian column, erected in 1675 at the order of Emperor Leopold I. Marian columns, or plague columns, were built in thanksgiving to the Virgin Mary for averting or ending some kind of disaster, often the plague. Font size: A - | A + This one, however, was placed here to mark events that could have shaken the whole empire but ended well for Vienna in the end. The relations between the Hungarian nobility and the imperial court in Vienna were rarely ideal, and in the second half of the 17th century they were far from good. Moreover, the country had already been battling against the Ottomans for almost 150 years, and occasional rebellions directed against the Habsburgs did not contribute to overall peace either. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Roots of the conspiracy In this turbulent era, Hungarian Palatine Wesselenyi met with Croatian ban, i.e. regional governor, Peter Zrinsky in Stubnianske Teplice, thus starting the movement of magnates opposing Vienna, known as Wesseleny's conspiracy. Gradually, many Hungarian nobles started to join the conspirators, including those from top power circles regional judge Jan Nadasdy, Archbishop Lippay, Ferencz I. Rakoczi, Stefan Thokoly and Frantisek Frankopan. However, despite the great names, the anti-Habsburg plot was not organised well, nor was it sufficiently secret. As it turned out later, the subjects of the conspirators, despite the intense calls of their lords, were not very interested in an uprising. And as for secrecy, this was over no later than in 1667 in Istanbul where Nikosios Panajotti, the interpreter of the Transylvanian embassy, revealed everything to Vienna envoys. Kaiser Leopold did not intervene against the Hungarian nobility, despite all this information. Rather, the nobles sentenced themselves in the end, due to a plot so naive and unhonourable. Why plotters failed? The plotters wanted to kidnap the kaiser during a hunt near Vienna and then transport him to a remote and hard-to-seize castle, Muran. There, they wanted to make Leopold give up the Hungarian crown. The nobles also counted on Hungary falling under the control of the Ottomans but the idea that they would be better off under them than under the Habsburgs was an illusion. Even the Ottoman ruler deemed the plan of kidnaping and blackmailing the Hungarian kaiser outrageous, and thus he announced it to Vienna. Ironically enough, he acted much more honestly and fairly than the Hungarian nobles. After that, events took a rapid course. On January 3, 1671, an extraordinary trial with 230 suspects took place in Bratislava. Most of them were released in the end and only the wealthier had their property seized. Only two nobles, from the eastern-Slovak region of Zemplin, ended up executed, Frantisek Bonis and Ondrej Nagy. Some time later, Nadasdy, Zrinsky and Frankopan were executed in Vienna. Ferencz I. Rakoczi was saved from execution thanks to the interception by his mother, Zsofia Bathory, and Jesuits as well as a generous bail of 400,000 guldens. The Marian column, as part of the Franciscan Square, was captured by painter Heinz Pinggera. He portrayed the square with a floral decoration from about 120 years ago. The current old-age pension scheme does not cap retirement age in Slovakia Font size: A - | A + We are people, not machines, and, we want to live to see our pensions. These were some of the slogans shouted by thousands of people marching through the streets of Bratislava on October 14. They marched for earlier retirement, organised by the countrywide metallurgy and engineering trade union KOVO, pointing out that the current scheme does not cap the retirement age. Thus, those who today are 30 years of age may retire only after reaching 68 or even later. They see this as too late and call for capping the retirement age at 64. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Prime Minister Robert Fico admitted that the retirement age will get a cap. Capping the retirement age is a large and legitimate topic, said Fico during a discussion programme the following day, October 15. Im also ready to discuss it with the opposition. Slovakias old-age pension scheme changed at the beginning of this year in such a way that the retirement age will be extended annually depending on average life expectancy, with no fixed upper limit. This means that the current retirement age of 62 years will have risen by 76 days in 2017 while in 2018 it should be boosted by an additional 63 days. KOVO proposes the cap at 64 years. The requirements of working people should have priority over those of capital, said KOVO chief Emil Machyna, as cited by the TASR newswire, pointing to low pensions and low pay among hard-working people in Slovakia. We also want to live decent lives and receive decent pensions. A decent society and developed democracy takes care of those who have done a lot for it and want to live a decent life. Labour Minister Jan Richter (Smer) met with participants of the march on Saturday and spoke about changes that are being prepared, including the so-called pre-pension. This has been included in the government manifesto and should be introduced by the end of the year. The minister also declared his readiness to talk about capping the retirement age. Im not saying that I fully agree with the trade unions requirement of 64 years of age, said Richter. Its an open issue, and a solution must be sought based on an analysis. Richter is also considering the option of reducing the retirement age for women who have raised children. The Bratislava-based university ranks among 2.4 % of worldwide best universities, according to the Centre for World University Rankings. Font size: A - | A + Comenius University in Bratislava (UK) appeared among 2.4 percent of the best universities in the world, according to the Centre for World University Rankings (CWUR). In the ranking that evaluated a total of 27,700 schools across the world, the university from the capital ranked 658th. The best university in the world is Harvard University, followed by Stanford, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge and Oxford, according to the ranking. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement UK is the only Slovak school in the ranking, its spokesperson Andrea Foldvaryova informed the TASR newswire. From among Czech universities, Charles University placed best, ranking 255th. The evaluation was based on eight indicators: quality of education, quality of lecturers, employment of graduates, publications, impact, quotations, reach and patents. CWUR chart measures the quality of education and preparation of students, as well as the quality of research, independently from polls and data delivered by universities. It is one of the international charts that evaluate universities worldwide, operating since 2012. The airport prepares several changes for its winter schedule. Font size: A - | A + The Irish low-cost airline Ryanair will offer a new regular connection within the winter 2017/2018 schedule of M. R. Stefanik airport in Bratislava. Starting from October 29, there will be flights between Bratislava and the Italian city of Bologna, the SITA newswire reported. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Read also: Read also: Ryanair cancelling winter lines as well, including Bratislava-Thessaloniki Read more Other changes in the winter schedule from October 29 include regular charter flights by Air Cairo to Hurghada and Marsa Alam once a week, with flight tickets available through the airlines website, BTS spokesperson Veronika Sevcikova told SITA. Wizz Air and other airlines mark changes, too Wizz Air companys lines to Tuzla in Bosnia and Herzegovina and to Cluz in Romania will not fly during winter: the flights to Tuzla will only be available in the summer season, while the Bratislava - Cluz connection will be interrupted from November 6. The additional capacity of Bratislava airport will be shifted to other connections and routes, Wizz Air informed. Read also: Read also: Minister Ersek considers renting out Bratislava airport Read more Bratislava has so far not officially confirmed the addition of flights to the Georgian capital of Tbilisi in the summer season. But rumour has it that from March 28 there should be flights twice a week. Georgian airlines decided to stop flights from and to Vienna, and surprisingly replace them with Bratislava, SITA wrote. Ryanair has already announced four new flights in the summer season: to Malta, Burgad in Bulgaria, Paphos in Cyprus and Thessaloniki in Greece, all of them twice a week. The theft in the ammunition depot was not used for arming extremists or terrorism. Font size: A - | A + The National Criminal Agency (NAKA) charged soldier Gabriel S. and his accomplice Adam B. with stealing military material from the ammunition depot, the Dennik N daily wrote on its website on October 17. NAKA did not find any connection between the theft and the armament of extremists or terrorism. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement The seller does not always know what the buyer wants to use it for, Police President Tibor Gaspar said, as cited by the daily. We managed to reveal him while he had the arms illegally in his home. The case is being investigated by a group established by the NAKA head, Peter Hrasko, whose members are military intelligence employees. Thanks to this, the case could be solved, Hrasko told Dennik N. Aves operation Within the Aves operation, police detained two people in October: the soldier Gabriel S., aged 26, and David C., aged 28. Both were charged with illegal arming and arms trafficking. They face a sentence of three to eight years in prison, the TASR newswire wrote. Gabriel S. tried to sell a total of 3,350 pieces of various ammunition, 1,760 grams of TNT explosive, and 2.5 metres of igniter cord at a parking lot in the town of Galanta (Trnava Region). He received a total of 6,650, NAKA head told TASR. Investigators assume he stole the ammunition to which he had access due to his profession: he was a soldier in the army unit in Sered. On weekends, the path in the tree-tops causes kilometre-long traffic jams. Font size: A - | A + More information about travelling in Slovakia Please see our Please see our Spectacular Slovakia travel guide The new attraction of the Bachledova Dolina ski resort, in the valley near Zdiar, is a tourist education path in the tree-tops. In mid-October it caused a traffic jam once again, the Korzar Spis regional newspaper wrote. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Many drivers complained about tailbacks several kilometres long, from Tatranska Kotlina all the way to the ski resort. On the weekend (of October 14-15), there was also a traffic jam from Bachledova Dolina Valley to the Polish border, since about 12,000 visitors arrived in total, the resorts spokesperson Martina Mudra said, as cited by the newspaper. This is an overload we are not able to handle, she said, adding that even the additional parking lot for up to 300 cars prepared the week before did not help. Despite the shuttle transport from the parking lot in the Zdiar-Strednica resort, two additional parking sites and people parking all over the village, we cannot prevent the tailbacks, as the roads leading to the path is narrow, Mudra explained, adding that the road is also used by people driving to the Polish Nowy Targ markets, or to the High Tatras. Seeking solutions The resort management is negotiating with several bodies about a roundabout and about widening the troublesome road. There also exists a plan to create more parking places. However, all these measures will only be possible in the course of the next year. video //www.youtube.com/embed/sRmQLJAwOYA Police recommend using mass transport, or avoiding the path during weekends at least, which is the worst. On weekdays, the visitors rate in Bachledova Dolina is between 2,000 and 3,000 a day, while at weekends, it is much more. For now, more than half of the visitors are Slovaks, and approximately 40 percent are Polish, Spis Korzar wrote. The Uttar Pradesh government is looking at cancelling the accreditation of 2,682 madrassas after they failed to register on a government-launched madrassa portal. By Abhishek Anand: Uttar Pradesh government might soon cancel the accreditation of as many as 2,682 madrassas for failing to submit their details on the Madrassa Portal, despite several reminders. The state government launched a portal of UP Madrassa Board in August for online registration of all Islamic institutions in a bid to check "irregularities in madrassas". All the madrasas were expected to give details of teachers and other employees with their building and class measurements as well as photographs. There are about 16,000 madrasas in the state, of which 560 are fully-aided. advertisement But even after two deadline extensions, over 2,682 madrassas in the state haven't yet furnished their details on the web page. According to sources, the Yogi government will now crack the whip on the madrassas that failed to adhere to the deadlines. --- ENDS --- Recently on October 4, Google launched its new Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones, which are the successors of already successful Pixel and Pixel XL. The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL now come with lots of mind-blowing features that make the devices stand out from the crowd. And along with the launch, the Google informed that the owners of the new handsets would have unlimited free cloud storage for original-quality photos and videos only through the end of 2020. This led to great confusion among the buyers of the last years Pixel and Pixel 2 smartphones because they were also promised to get unlimited free storage of original Quality photos and videos in Google Photos. So, in order to solve this uncertainty, Android Police reached out to Google for clarification. When asked, Google said that all the Pixel and Pixel XL customers dont need to worry about what happens to their photos and videos after a few years as the company would support this feature for them for life. So, it is a big relief for all the Pixel and Pixel XL owners. Actually, Google Photos is a cloud-storage service that lets users save photos and videos in two forms. First is the original image and second is the High-Quality image. Although users dont need to pay for uploading high-quality content, Google charges some money for storing original quality photos and videos after a set limit of storage is crossed. But Google offers this storage of original quality images for free for the lifetime, with the current Pixel and Pixel XL phone. But the recently launched Pixel 2 and Pixel 2XL phone will get this feature by the end of 2020. But Google informed that after 2020, although the users of all the Pixel phones will enjoy unlimited original quality photo storage for lifetime, still while uploading, the images will get converted into high-quality. Here readers should note that the high-quality images are slightly lower in quality than the original Quality. S, in this context, it can be concluded that the users of Pixel and Pixel XL will be benefitted more from this unlimited, lifetime original image storage feature provided by Google as, the recently launched Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will get the feature by the end of 2020. Tweakers maakt gebruik van cookies Tweakers plaatst functionele en analytische cookies voor het functioneren van de website en het verbeteren van de website-ervaring. Deze cookies zijn noodzakelijk. Om op Tweakers relevantere advertenties te tonen en om ingesloten content van derden te tonen (bijvoorbeeld video's), vragen we je toestemming. Via ingesloten content kunnen derde partijen diensten leveren en verbeteren, bezoekersstatistieken bijhouden, gepersonaliseerde content tonen, gerichte advertenties tonen en gebruikersprofielen opbouwen. Hiervoor worden apparaatgegevens, IP-adres, geolocatie en surfgedrag vastgelegd. Meer informatie vind je in ons cookiebeleid. By Anjuli Davies and Clara Denina LONDON (Reuters) - Britain wants more say over deals in its military and technology sectors, as the government tries to prevent homegrown companies in sensitive industries from falling into foreign hands. The proposals, announced on Tuesday as part of a broader consultation on potential changes to takeover rules, mark a shift for a country which has traditionally been one of the most open to foreign buyout deals. That emphasis has changed, with a string of acquisitions by Chinese companies across the world fuelling security concerns in countries including Germany and the United States. "At first sight we have concerns that these proposals will have a chilling effect - the opposite of the 'UK open for business' message which accompanies them," said Angus Coulter, partner at law firm Hogan Lovells. The weakening of the pound since Britain's vote to leave the European Union has also made UK companies cheaper for foreign buyers. Theresa May, who became prime minister after the Brexit vote, said last September that her government would take a more cautious approach to foreign investments after approving a $24 billion (18.2 billion) plan for a Chinese-backed nuclear power plant in southwest England. Since then though there have been a number of other high profile foreign takeovers in Britain, particularly in the technology sector. In September, Canyon Bridge Capital Partners - a China-backed buyout fund that was barred a week earlier by U.S. President Donald Trump from buying a U.S. chipmaker - agreed to buy British chip designer Imagination Technologies , sparking criticism from some politicians and media of the UK's relaxed rules.. "It is the first duty of government to make sure that we are protected from hostile threats," Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark said at a Q&A session after his parliamentary statement. "It is right to periodically upgrade our systems for scrutiny and .... smaller companies have the potential to carry a threat to national security and these measures respond to that." Story continues The proposals include lowering the turnover threshold at which the government can scrutinise deals to companies with annual revenues of at least 1 million pounds, from 70 million previously. The proposed changes would apply to companies in the military sector and those involved in the design of computer chips and quantum technology. "This will mean that investment from certain countries will be looked at much more closely and inevitably when politicians are involved in transactions, it will increase uncertainty and a lack of predictability and, depending on how the system works, maybe a question mark over transparency," said Nigel Parr, partner at law firm Ashurst. BUYOUT BRITAIN The world's fifth-largest economy is trying to balance the need to remain open for investment after the Brexit vote while upholding a pledge by Prime Minister Theresa May to intervene when big foreign investments concern critical assets. Since the Brexit vote in June 2016, Britain has remained a busy market for mergers and acquisitions, with the value of deals up 26 percent so far this year to $125 billion, Thomson Reuters data shows. Some lawyers said these new proposals would not have made much difference to this recent pick-up in deals though, questioning the long-term need for them. "We are not aware of a significant number of 'problem' transactions which the government has been unable to review under existing rules. There is a general question of whether there is a need to impose extra cost on business and government, and whether now is the right time to do so," Hogan Lovell's Coulter said. The government also said it would open a twelve-week consultation period on longer-term reform proposals, including an expanded version of the "call in" power that allows the government to scrutinise a broader range of transactions for national security concerns. (Reporting by Anjuli Davies, additional reporting by Clara Denina; Editing by Mark Potter and Louise Heavens) LONDON (Reuters) - Britain said on Tuesday it had summoned the Chinese ambassador in recent days to express its concern that a British rights activist was denied entry to Hong Kong last week. "We are very concerned that Ben Rogers, a UK national, was denied entry into Hong Kong on 11 October in absolute disregard of the 'one country, two systems' principle," Foreign Office minister Mark Field said in parliament. He added: "Foreign Office director-general for economic and global issues summoned the Chinese ambassador on this issue over the past few days." Rogers, a co-founder of the ruling Conservative Party's Human Rights Commission, has been a vocal critic of Chinese-ruled Hong Kong's treatment of human rights activists, including that of jailed student protest leader Joshua Wong. Hong Kong, which returned to Chinese rule in 1997, is governed under a "one country, two systems" principle that promises it a higher degree of autonomy and freedom than on the mainland. Last week, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said London needed an explanation from Hong Kong and Beijing on the matter. (Reporting by William James; editing by Stephen Addison) Boris Johnson is reportedly stalling Brexit talks (Rex) Boris Johnson is stalling Brexit talks over his opposition to the UK divorce bill offer to the EU, according to an ally of German chancellor Angela Merkel. Michael Fuchs, deputy chairman of Mrs Merkels CDU/CSU group in the German parliament, said the Foreign Secretary believes the offer Theresa May has made is too much. Mr Fuchs said he thought the Prime Minister would bring forward proposals on Britains financial obligations that could break the deadlock in negotiations if she was not plagued by internal trouble in the Conservative Party. Angela Merkely ally Michael Fuchs claims the Foreign Secretary believes the UKs divorce bill offer is too high (Rex) He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I know there are internal problems, whatever she is offering, Boris Johnson is saying its too much. He went on: I dont know what his influence (is), it seems to be pretty strong because otherwise she would come up with other proposals I guess and the problem is she has internal trouble in the Tories. But asked if Mr Johnson should be sacked, he said: Of course not. Most popular on Yahoo News UK Man dies after stabbing outside Parsons Green Tube station in London Girl, 8, falls to her death on cruise ship in front of horrified passengers Get off my land! Furious farmer throws punches and drives quad bike into hunt saboteurs in shocking video Parents of man arrested for indecency in Dubai say his life is ruined Trump branded fat f***ing liar by sister of U.S. soldier killed in Iraq I am critical, because what he said not a single cent to the EU its of course not acceptable because you know what kind of duties you have, I mean its all on the table. Mr Fuchs said Mrs Mays proposal in her Florence speech last month that Britain would pay contributions to the Brussels budget agreed in 2014 and which runs to 2020 of around 18 billion (around 20 billion euro) did not go far enough, as it does not include an offer to pay the pensions of EU bureaucrats, thought to run to billions of pounds. Mr Fuchs spoke after the PM attended a working dinner in Brussels with European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and chief negotiator Michel Barnier which offered little sign of tangible progress. Story continues Theresa May said Britain would pay contributions to the Brussels budget agreed in 2014 until 2020 (Rex) While they agreed to accelerate efforts to find a Brexit deal, there was no indication the EU side was ready to revise its view that the talks still had not made sufficient progress for them to move forward to the second phase including a free trade deal with Britains divorce bill a key stumbling block. Mr Fuchs added: You have to accept that there are a lot of things to be paid. Let me just say pensions, which is not solved. This problem has to be solved and the UK has to come up with decent proposals. Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto speaks during a news conference with members of the Foreign Correspondents Association of East Africa in his official residence in Karen, Nairobi, Kenya, October 17, 2017. REUTERS/Baz Ratner NAIROBI (Reuters) - Kenya's Deputy President William Ruto said on Tuesday there would be no problem if the election board agrees to meet a raft of demands made by the opposition ahead of a repeat presidential vote on Oct. 26. The Supreme Court annulled an Aug. 8 vote at the start of September after opposition leader Raila Odinga challenged the re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta. Odinga has withdrawn from the repeat poll, saying the election board had failed to meet a list of conditions his coalition said would guarantee fairness. He has called for daily protests to force the reforms. "If they (the election board) chose to have a discussion with our competitors with a view to firing this member of staff or firing that member of that staff or changing a supplier ... so long as the elections are there, we will participate," Ruto told reporters. Under the constitution, the repeat election must be held within 60 days of the Sept. 1 invalidation. The election board says it will to go ahead with the vote but Odinga's withdrawal has caused concerns of a political crisis. Ruto accused Odinga of trying to spark chaos through the protests in order to get a negotiated settlement, which Kenyatta's side was not prepared to accept, he said. "It is a manufactured situation to achieve a political end and that is what we must resist," he said. Odinga was looking for a way out of the election after realising he was not likely to win, Ruto said. "They wanted a repeat election, they have a repeat election. They don't want to participate. What do they want?" he said. (Reporting by Katharine Houreld; Writing by Duncan Miriri; Editing by Paul Tait) Kim Jong-un has upped the rhetoric again North Korea could cause millions of deaths in America by detonating a nuclear electromagnetic pulse weapon in the upper atmosphere, researchers have warned. Rather than firing a bomb directly at an American city, the dictatorship could detonate a bomb high in the atmosphere, unleash a pulse of radio waves which could destroy electronics across America. The warning comes just as Pyongyang upped the rhetoric once again, saying nuclear war might break out at any moment. Dr William Graham and Dr Peter Vincent Pry from the EMP Commission describe the attack in a new paper titled North Korea Nuclear EMP Attack: An Existential Threat. Most popular on Yahoo News UK Man dies after stabbing outside Parsons Green Tube station in London Girl, 8, falls to her death on cruise ship in front of horrified passengers Get off my land! Furious farmer throws punches and drives quad bike into hunt saboteurs in shocking video Parents of man arrested for indecency in Dubai say his life is ruined Trump branded fat f***ing liar by sister of U.S. soldier killed in Iraq They say that the bomb would be detonated around 18 miles up, or possibly even higher, with the goal of frying the electric power grid. The researchers write, The result could be to shut down the US electric power grid for an indefinite period, leading to the death within a year of up to 90 per cent of all Americans. South Korean banks are drawing up plans to protect critical electronic data from a potential electromagnetic pulse attack by North Korea The researchers write, With the development of small nuclear arsenals and long-range missiles by new, radical US adversaries, beginning with North Korea, the threat of a nuclear EMP attack against the US becomes one of the few ways that such a country could inflict devastating damage to the United States. The research comes at a heightened point of tension between the two countries. Although Donald Trump has recently said that diplomacy will not work with Rocket Man Kim, on Tuesday the U.S. said it is not ruling out the eventual possibility of direct talks with the hermit state. Story continues Talks between the adversaries have long been urged by China in particular, but Washington and its ally Japan have been reluctant to sit down at the table while Pyongyang continues to pursue a goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the United States. Eventually, we dont rule out the possibility of course of direct talks, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan said in Tokyo, hours after Pyongyang warned nuclear war might break out at any moment. Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail, he said. Tension has soared following a series of weapons tests by North Korea and a string of increasingly bellicose exchanges between Trump and Kim. Leaflets apparently from North Korea calling Trump a mad dog and depicting gruesome images of him have turned up across central Seoul, adding an unusually personal element to North Korean propaganda. FILE PHOTO: A display featuring missiles and a portrait of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is seen at Baharestan Square in Tehran, Iran September 27, 2017. Nazanin Tabatabaee Yazdi/TIMA/File Photo via REUTERS Thomson Reuters By Parisa Hafezi ANKARA (Reuters) - Iranians quickly closed ranks against a hawkish new U.S. approach to Tehran, but Iran's powerful hardliners are set to exploit the latest dispute with Washington to weaken domestic rivals who are open to the West, analysts and insiders say. President Donald Trump's warning on Friday that he might ultimately terminate a landmark 2015 nuclear deal sets the stage for an eventual resurgence of political infighting within Iran's complex power structures, officials said. If the accord signed by Iran and six major powers does start to fall apart, anyone who strongly promoted it, such as pragmatist President Hassan Rouhani, could face a career-damaging backlash. That could leave Iran's security hardliners unchallenged at home, enabling greater Iranian assertiveness abroad that could worsen tensions in the Middle East, analysts say. For the moment, solidarity within the Islamic Republic's faction-ridden political elite is the priority. "What matters now is unity against the foreign enemy," a senior official told Reuters on condition of anonymity, like other figures contacted within Iran because of the sensitivity of the matter. "Our national interest is a priority for all Iranian officials." But Rouhani and pragmatists and reformist allies who promoted the deal, which lifted sanctions in return for Tehran rolling back technologies with nuclear bomb-making potential, may become increasingly politically vulnerable at home. "GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY" FOR ROUHANI'S CRITICS Trump on Friday defied both U.S. allies and adversaries by refusing to formally certify that Tehran is complying with the accord even though international inspectors say it is. "The growing tension with America is a golden opportunity for hardliners to clip Rouhani's wings," said a Rouhani ally, who was involved in the 18-month nuclear talks. Iran's top authority, hardline Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, guardedly backed Rouhani when he opened the door to nuclear diplomacy with world powers, but has repeatedly expressed pessimism about Washington remaining committed to it. Story continues For Rouhani the stakes are high: His rapprochement with the world won him enhanced popularity at home and prestige abroad, dealing a setback to Khamenei's hardline allies, who oppose both detente with the West and domestic liberalization. Now the tables may be turning. "Hardliners will use Trump's threat as a Sword of Damocles over Rouhani's head ... While enjoying the economic benefits of the deal," said Tehran-based political analyst Saeed Leylaz, referring to the lifting of tough oil and banking sanctions. "Rouhani and his detente policy with the world will be weakened if the deal does not survive," another senior Iranian official said. "And of course an aggressive regional policy is inevitable." Under Iran's unique dual system of clerical and republican rule, the elected president is subordinate to the unelected Khamenei, who has in the past reasserted control when infighting threatened the existence of the Islamic Republic. Trump's policy will play into the hands of hardliners eventually, said an ally of Khamenei. "What matters is the Islamic Republic and its interests." TIT-FOR-TAT STEPS In reaction to Trump, Rouhani signaled Iran would withdraw from the agreement if it failed to preserve Tehran's interests. The survival of the deal now is up to the U.S. Congress, which might try to modify it or reimpose U.S. sanctions on Iran. But even if the Congress refuses to consider sanctions, the deal could still be in jeopardy if Washington and Tehran resort to tit-for-tat retaliatory steps. "As long as both sides only exchange words, business will continue as usual," said Leylaz. Since the lifting of sanctions, Rouhani has started to repair an economy ravaged by a decade of restrictions on its vital oil industry and issued warm welcomes to global investors. But major European investors could think twice about involvement in Iran if tension mounts with the United States and uncertainty grows over survival of the accord. "If European companies don't have the comfort of a political agreement endorsed by the Americans they will say stop," said a senior French diplomat. Among European firms that have announced big deals in Iran since the deal took effect are planemaker Airbus AIR.PA, French energy group Total TOTF.PA and Germany's Siemens SIEGn.DE. REGIONAL CHAOS Trump enraged Tehran by saying that the Revolutionary Guards, which have fought Iran's regional proxy wars for decades, was Khamenei's "corrupt personal terror force and militia". Rouhani said Iranians would always stand by the Guards. Several officials agreed that Trump's hostility would not change Iran's regional behavior, determined by Khamenei. But if Trump somehow made good on his threats, "then Iran will adopt a harsher and aggressive regional policy," said one of the officials familiar with Iran's decision-making policy. Iran and its rival Saudi Arabia accuse each other of fuelling regional tensions. The Sunni Muslim kingdom is at odds with Tehran's revolutionary Shi'ite leaders in struggles across the Arab world, including Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Bahrain and Lebanon. On social policy, Rouhani's scope to loosen restrictions on individual freedoms and rights would be crushed by hardliners if he loses political prestige. Hardliners control the judiciary, security forces and state media. "Whenever pressured abroad, the regime increases pressure at home to silence any opposition," said a former moderate official. (Additional reporting by Jonathan Saul in London and John Irish in Paris; Writing by Parisa Hafezi, Editing by William Maclean and Giles Elgood) See Also: Zakariye Abdirisaq, left, who lost both his father and aunt in the bombing, is comforted by his cousin as they stand next to his father's grave, at a cemetery in Mogadishu, Somalia Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017. Anguished families gathered across Somalia's capital on Tuesday as funerals continued for the more than 300 people killed in one of the world's deadliest attacks in years, while others waited anxiously for any word of the scores of people still said to be missing. (AP Photo/Mohamed Sheikh Nor) MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) -- Anguished families scoured Somalia's capital Tuesday in search of scores still missing from Saturday's bomb blast that killed more than 300 people in one of the world's deadliest attacks in years. Sitting outside a hospital mortuary, Hodan Ali quietly looked for her missing brother by showing people his photo on the screen of her mobile phone. Fifty-year-old taxi driver Abdiqadir Ali was last seen Saturday on his way to a hotel to pick up a client just before the massive explosion on a busy street. Ali, a mother of four, said she had visited most of Mogadishu's hospitals but neither she nor other family members found any sign of him. "I am about to give up," she said in a soft voice, tears running over her veil. "Nothing is more painful than not knowing the whereabouts of your loved ones, whether life or death." Across Mogadishu, Somalia's flag flew at half-mast, marking three days of national mourning. Mayor Thabit Abdi called for a citywide march on Wednesday in honor of the victims and as a show of defiance. "We must liberate this city which is awash with graves," Abdi said. The death toll of 302 is expected to rise. Nearly 70 people were missing, based on accounts from relatives, said police Capt. Mohamed Hussein. "My son has gone missing since the day of the attack. I would be very lucky if I had a portion of his body," Abdulkadir Mohamud said, breaking down in tears. "I do not have even his flesh. Please bring my son back." With nearly 400 people wounded, with some burned beyond recognition, international aid arrived to help overwhelmed hospitals. A United States military plane landed in Mogadishu with medical and humanitarian aid supplies. Dozens of critically injured have been airlifted to Turkey for treatment. A medical team from Djibouti arrived for more evacuations, and neighboring Kenya said it would evacuate 31 people and deliver 11 tons of medical supplies. Somalia's government has blamed the attack on the al-Shabab extremist group, which has not commented. Story continues But analysts said there is little doubt that Africa's deadliest Islamic extremist group carried out the bombing. "No other group in Somalia has the capacity to put together a bomb of this size, in this nature," said Matt Bryden, a security consultant on the Horn of Africa. Analysts have suggested that al-Shabab, an ally of al-Qaida, may have avoided taking responsibility because it did not want to be blamed for the deaths of so many civilians. Al-Shabab has waged war in Somalia for more than a decade, often targeting high-profile areas of the capital. Earlier this year, it vowed to step up attacks after both the Trump administration and Somalia's recently elected Somali-American president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, announced new military efforts against the extremists. Mohamed vowed to wipe them out within two years. The U.S. military has stepped up drone strikes and other efforts this year against al-Shabab, which is also fighting a 22,000-strong African Union force in the country. Saturday's explosion further battered an impoverished country left fragile by decades of conflict, and it raised more doubts over the government's ability to secure the seaside capital of more than 2 million people. In a sandy cemetery at one Mogadishu hospital, mourners carried the coffin of a woman killed in the bombing. The crowd prayed in low voices under the scorching sun. The woman died Sunday of her wounds, a day after her husband. They had been traveling on a crowded street when the truck detonated nearby. "God, please bring those who killed both my father and aunt before our eyes or book them to justice," Zakariye Abdirisaq said, wiping his eyes. He squatted by the fresh grave, putting his hands to the earth and then to his lips, one by one. Then he prayed. International condemnation has poured in, with the United States calling the attack "cowardly" and the United Nations special envoy to Somalia calling it "revolting." Michael Keating said the U.N. and African Union were supporting the Somali government's response with "logistical support, medical supplies and expertise." The U.N. Security Council stood in silent tribute to the victims Tuesday and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asked to meet with Somali minister Abdullahi Hamud to personally extend his condolences. Hamud, who is minister of state in the prime minister's office, is at U.N. headquarters in New York for Africa Week activities. After three days, many family members of those still missing are giving up. Afrah Ibrahim, 30, searched for clues of what happened to his sister by using a stick to pick through clothes of victims buried in a cemetery. He did not find any worn by his sister. Lowering his head in anguish, he said, "I am done." ___ Associated Press video journalist Mohamed Sheikh Nor in Mogadishu contributed to this report. What's next for SD Gov. Kristi Noem as she heads into her second term? The Very Long Baseline Array, a group of radio telescopes that spans thousands of miles and is remotely operated near Socorro, just took a very long measurement of the galaxy we live in. The VLBA directly measured a span of 66,000 light-years from Earth across the Milky Ways center to a star-forming area near the edge of the other side, almost double the previous measurement record of an object in our galaxy. One light-year is equal to 6 trillion miles. Because the galaxy is essentially a flat disk that we cant observe in its entirety from a distance, these measurements are the only way we are able to accurately map it. Astronomers used a technique called trigonometric parallax. Think back to your high school trigonometry class: Remember how you can use the angles of a triangle to obtain the lengths of the triangles sides? Trigonometric parallax uses the same principles. By measuring the angles between the sun, Earth and a distant object against celestial bodies in the background, and measuring it again six months later, once on each side of the sun, astronomers can calculate the objects distance from Earth. This means that, using the VLBA, we now can accurately map the whole extent of our galaxy, said Alberto Sanna of Germanys Max-Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy in a news release. Mark Reid, senior radio astronomer at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and who worked on the project, said they hope to be able to produce a map of the Milky Way the first of its kind within 10 years by measuring additional points around the galaxy. So far, theyve done around 200. Reid said 100 or so observations must be done from the Earths southern hemisphere, so he will be traveling to Australia in the future to use telescopes there. Although the data for the 66,000 light-year measurement was collected in 2014 and 2015, Reid said the team has spent the time since then analyzing it. Its not like you get a Hubble (Space Telescope) space image, he said. While there are artistic renderings of what the Milky Way probably looks like, Reid said this will yield a highly accurate image. Reid said they hope to use the technique to map the entire Milky Way within 10 years. SANTA FE A protester at last months Fiestas de Santa Fe Entrada was arrested for trespassing shortly after a police sergeant overhead him tell others they should storm the Plaza and take it over, according to a Santa Fe Police Department report released Monday. Trenton Warden, of Santa Fe, was one of eight protesters arrested for criminal trespass during and after this years re-enactment of the Spanish re-occupation of Santa Fe in 1692, 12 years after the Pueblo Revolt. The pageant is staged annually on the Plaza and took place this year on Sept. 8. Wardens attorney, John Day, said police still havent sent him or other attorneys for the arrested protesters any police reports. Day commented on the police account of Wardens arrest after a Journal reporter read it to him. Clearly you cant be criminally charged if someone overhears you saying something like that, Day said. The First Amendment is an amazing thing where you can have views that are different from a police sergeants, but you cant get arrested for that. Based on the report you read to me, I fail to see any crime. SFPD Sgt. Chris McCord wrote in a report that he was standing near a barricade for an area where protesters were being confined on the northeast corner of the Plaza a free speech zone, as police called it and told Warden he needed to stay off the Plaza if he was going to protest. I overheard him telling others that they should just storm the place and take it over, McCord wrote. I told him I heard him and that anyone who attempts to disrupt this event in a negative or violent way with (sic) be arrested. McCord wrote that Warden then took off running with a large protest sign with no re guard (sic) for the publics safety and was arrested for trespassing. Warden has pleaded not guilty to the charge in Santa Fe Municipal Court. Another protester was arrested for trespassing for allegedly wearing a bandana over his face, in violation of a Fiesta ban on masks. Felony battery on a peace officer charges against a lead protester, 21-year-old Jennifer Marley, were dropped last week. The district attorney says the police never sent video or statements on Marleys arrest. Shed been accused of hitting officers with a protest sign, although that wasnt shown on police video released to reporters. SANTA FE An Albuquerque woman was killed in a head-on crash that snarled traffic for hours north of Santa Fe on Friday, and Santa Fe County deputies are asking for witnesses who saw what happened to come forward. The Santa Fe County Sheriffs Office believes 18-year-old Elias Arellano, of Espanola, was speeding northbound on U.S. 84/285 near Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino and lost control of his white Chrysler Sebring convertible. Arellano crossed the median into southbound traffic and crashed head on into an Acura SUV around 3 p.m. The driver of the Acura, Lucy Fresques, 71, was pronounced dead after being taken to the hospital. Her husband, 74-year-old Robert Fresques, was taken to University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque with critical injuries. The initial collision caused the Acura to collide with a Volkswagen Jetta. The occupants of the Jetta, both from Edwards, Colo., were taken to St. Vincents with minor injuries. Sheriffs Office spokesman Juan Rios said the highway was not reopened until around 10:30 p.m. Arellano and his passenger, a 13-year-old male who police have not identified, were not wearing seat belts and were ejected from the Sebring. The boy was airlifted to UNMH while Arellano was taken to Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center here. Deputies are asking anyone who saw the crash or who saw the Sebring drving on the highway before the collision are asked to call (505) 428-3720 and speak with Deputy Christopher Valencia. ATLANTA A 24-year-old mother of four is accused of killing her two youngest sons by placing them in an oven and turning it on, according to an arrest warrant obtained Monday by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. An official autopsy is pending. The arrest warrant alleges Lamora Williams put her sons in the oven sometime between midnight Thursday and 11 p.m. Friday. Atlanta police had said earlier that the two boys had received burn marks on their bodies at some point, possibly from the stove. Police removed the stove from the home for further investigation. Williams waived her first appearance in court Monday on felony murder charges, Fulton County jail officials said. Williams called her sons father Friday night and showed him by video chat that something was wrong in her southwest Atlanta apartment home, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution previously reported. Jameel Penn said he immediately called police after Williams panned around the room and he could see his sons on the floor. After I seen what I seen, you know I called the police, he said. When officials arrived at the Oakland City West End apartment on Howell Place, the boys, 2-year-old KeYounte Penn and 1-year-old JaKarter Williams, were dead. I aint got no soul no more, Penn said Saturday night during a vigil as he held his other son, 3-year-old Jameel, in his arms. Penn could not be reached for comment Monday afternoon. The 3-year-old was in the apartment unharmed when police arrived Friday. Williams eldest child, a 6-year-old girl, was safe with family and not home Friday night, police said. Friends and family members of Williams told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution she suffered from undiagnosed mental health problems that were exacerbated by her fathers death when she was 19 and by having four children under the age of 7. They said she was also a single mother who had some help from Penn, but not enough considering her mental health. Williams longtime friend, Neesa Smith, said Williams quit a job about a month ago because she couldnt find a baby sitter for the kids. Nobody could tell what she was going through, Smith said. Smith said Williams called her first Friday night and said she couldnt do it anymore. When her longtime friend pressed for more details, Williams allegedly said the boys were dead. Smith told her to call the police, but she called Penn via video instead. Police said Williams told them that she left the children with a caregiver at noon Friday and returned home late in the evening, finding the children dead and the caregiver gone. But police said they did not believe Williams left her children with a caregiver. Williams sister, Tabitha Hollingsworth, said Williams is at risk and should be put on suicide watch in the Fulton County jail, where she remains without bond. A jail spokesman could not confirm Williams status, citing medical information privacy laws. Family members said they tried to visit Williams on Sunday but werent allowed to see her. Shes the only one who really knows what happened, Hollingsworth said. In a highly anticipated first, scientists said theyve detected the collision of two neutron stars and confirmed that these cataclysmic events are indeed a source of gold, platinum and other heavy elements in the universe. The powerful smash-up produced gravitational waves that were picked up by the LIGO and Virgo observatories. It also emitted a broad swath of electromagnetic radiation that could be seen by more traditional telescopes, including ones that capture visible light. By studying the gravitational waves, gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet light, infrared, radio waves and visible light from a single event, the scientists said they have embarked on the era of multi-messenger astronomy one that promises a far deeper understanding of some of the most powerful and elusive phenomena in the cosmos. This is the beginning, said Duncan Brown, a gravitational-wave astronomer at Syracuse University and member of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration. This is the beginning of bringing the entire human toolkit of observations, of gravitational waves and electromagnetic waves, to bear on understanding our universe and where we live. The findings, described in a suite of papers released Monday, mark the first time the larger astronomical community has been able to study a gravitational-wave event. Laura Cadonati of Georgia Tech, LIGOs deputy spokeswoman, said at a briefing in Washington, D.C., that the combined information from gravitational waves and light was bigger than the sum of its parts. The improvement, she said, is equivalent to the transition from looking at a black-and-white picture of a volcano to sitting in a 3D IMAX movie that shows the explosion of Mount Vesuvius. Previously, LIGO and its European partner Virgo have picked up only collisions between black holes events that cant be detected with telescopes because not even light can escape a black holes powerful gravitational pull. But scientists with the LIGO-Virgo collaboration have been itching to find a collision between two neutron stars because it would produce both gravitational and electromagnetic waves. Neutron stars are the corpses of massive stars whose cores collapsed in supernova explosions. While theyre not that big, theyre incredibly dense, packing a suns worth of mass into the size of a city. A teaspoon of neutron-star stuff weighs around a billion or so tons. The cosmic crash described Monday occurred about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Hydra, said David Reitze, executive director of the LIGO Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology. After a long dance toward each other, two neutron stars one somewhere around 1.1 solar masses, the other weighing in the neighborhood of 1.6 suns finally collided, converting some of their combined mass into gravitational waves. These waves are ripples created by objects as they accelerate or decelerate, rather like the wake made by a boat moving through the water. Albert Einstein predicted their existence 101 years ago as part of his general theory of relativity, and LIGO scientists won a Nobel Prize this month for detecting gravitational waves and proving Einstein correct. Its good the Nobel Prize was awarded once already to LIGO, because it may be in the future again, Avi Loeb, an astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics who was not involved in the work, said with a laugh. This is very significant. Earths first inkling of the neutron-star collision came on Aug. 17, after LIGOs twin detectors in Hanford, Wash., and Livingston, La., measured a powerful gravitational chirp. This signal, dubbed GW170817, looked very different from the waves produced by colliding black holes, Reitze said. Since neutron stars are less massive than black holes, a doomed pair takes longer to complete its final death spiral and packs many more waves into a single event. Around that time, NASAs Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope picked up a powerful flash of high-energy gamma rays. (The gamma rays are produced after the gravitational waves, but Fermi was the first to send out an alert.) Both Fermi and the LIGO and Virgo detectors were able to identify a patch of sky that was the likely source of their event and those two areas overlapped. This produced the exact reaction you might expect: the astronomical equivalent of stopping traffic while we all stopped to go and get a look, said University of California, Santa Barbara astronomer Andy Howell, a staff scientist at the Las Cumbres Observatory, whose global network of telescopes also followed the event. Within hours, astronomers were training their telescopes on that promising region, looking for X-rays, ultraviolet waves, optical light, infrared light and radio waves. Each of these bands of the electromagnetic spectrum yields different kinds of information about the source, allowing the researchers to study this neutron-star collision in unprecedented detail. Among their discoveries: Infrared and optical cameras found signs that heavy elements such as gold, platinum and neodymium had been produced by this powerful event. While nickel, copper, iron and other elements can be produced by supernovas, scientists have long suspected that many elements heavier than iron are often born from the collision between neutron stars. Theyre really cosmic foundries for heavy elements like gold, platinum, uranium, Reitze said. Thats pretty amazing. The findings could explain the mysterious origins of a type of gamma-ray burst known as short-hard, which produces brief but highly energetic gamma-ray bursts powerful flashes of light. That just solved a longstanding problem in astrophysics, Brown said. Marcelle Soares-Santos, an astrophysicist at Brandeis University who also studied the event, said the findings could help illuminate a deep mystery of cosmology: the nature of dark energy. Researchers track the expansion rate of the universe using two different methods the predictable luminosity of standard candle supernovas and the cosmic microwave background, the afterglow from the Big Bang. The problem is, these two methods produce slightly different expansion rates. Gravitational wave astronomy could serve as the tiebreaker between the two. Its findings could reveal that our standard candles need recalibration or could hint that there is some previously unknown physics at play. Both cases would be very interesting, very exciting, Soares-Santos said. As for the two neutron stars, the scientists could not say whether the pair had merged to form a bigger neutron star, collapsed into a black hole or met some other, unknown end. SAN DIEGO On his Oval Office report card, Barack Obama earned a massive fail on the immigration issue. He broke his campaign promise to reform our immigration system, deported about 3 million people, dragged his feet for three years before giving executive relief to young undocumented immigrants through Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), shipped out thousands of Central American women and children refugees without hearing their asylum claims and lied about what he had done by shifting blame to Republicans. All this cold-heartedness helped make Obama the most anti-immigrant president in modern U.S. history. But now, in light of his over-the-top and ignorance-fueled demands to Congress in exchange for supporting legal status but not citizenship for Dreamers, its clear that President Trump wants a shot at the title. Trump claimed in a statement that each item on his restrictionist wish list will ensure prosperity, opportunity, and safety for every member of our national family. Trump tried to accomplish all that by pitching his policy goals as a remedy to what bone-headed Republicans glibly describe as Obamas illegal executive amnesty for undocumented young people brought here as children. For those of you interested in a little thing called truth, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is not illegal since the executive branch sets deportation policy, and not amnesty because it is conditional with strings attached. Right-wingers confuse feeling strongly about immigration with actually knowing something about it. Trump made the same mistake when he said that the Obama administration granted in 2012 the same benefits that Congress had considered and rejected when comprehensive immigration reform went off the rails several years earlier. Wrong. DACA is temporary relief that lasts two years and requires recipients to turn themselves in to Immigration and Customs Enforcement; the deferred action is deportation. Congress was debating permanent legal status for undocumented immigrants who would not have had to turn themselves in. About 690,000 young people are enrolled in DACA, and the total number of Dreamers in the United States is about 1.5 million. Trump also claims that Obamas olive branch to Dreamers resulted in a surge of illegal immigration. Wrong again. Even before Trump took office, illegal immigration into the United States from Mexico and the rest of Latin America was on the decline because it was easier to find work south of the border. And when a surge does happen, the only thing that causes it are jobs offered by U.S. employers. Do I have to explain all this to a businessman who owns hotels and resorts that he has admitted to staffing with illegal immigrants because he cant find Americans to do those jobs? Trumps demands to Congress are a combination of the impractical, the inhumane and the imaginary. They include: funding for a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border that could cost $25 billion; a continuation of the Obama administrations crackdown on women and children refugees from Central America; and an end to law enforcement grants to fabled sanctuary cities that conservatives insist really do exist even as federal immigration agents are in states like California cutting through sanctuary like a hot knife through butter. And while members of his party continue to insist that illegal immigration is unfair to those who play by the rules, Trump also wants a 50 percent cut in legal immigration to punish those who play by the rules. In addition, he wants new immigrants to be high-skilled and may yet suggest that like Secretary of State Rex Tillerson they take an IQ test. Bringing in more high-skilled immigrants should be loads of fun for those American workers who cant even compete with low-skilled immigrants. And what about those pathetic American workers who love to attack immigrants for doing hard and dirty jobs that they wont go within a mile of, no matter how much they get paid to do them? Trump says hes doing all this for them, and that immigration reform must create more jobs, higher wages, and greater security for Americans now and for future generations. Still wrong. Its not the duty of our immigration policy to do those things. All it is supposed to do is secure our borders, encourage legal immigration, and stop illegal immigration. It is not a jobs program for people who dont want to work anyway. For crying out loud, look at all the Help Wanted signs sprouting up in your town. America is still the land of opportunity. Its not immigrants fault that so many Americans want everything handed to them, and expect the government to be their nanny. E-mail: ruben@rubennavarrette.com. Copyright, The Washington Post Writers Group. A lawsuit that would force the public to pay state employees for time off to vote in municipal elections gives state lawmakers a chance to revisit whether employees should be paid for the time they spend voting. Current state law allows workers to leave work for two hours on election day to cast their ballots despite the fact they now have weeks to vote absentee or early, and Election Day polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The archaic law, 1-12-42 (A) also says the voter shall not be liable to any penalty for such absence. It does not specify whether docking an employee for the time spent voting constitutes a penalty. And while subsection (C) includes elections on Indian land and enrolled members of the Indian nation, tribe or pueblo, the law does not further define elections, such as federal, state, municipal, etc. The state contends municipal elections arent covered by the state policy allowing time off to vote. Two state employees Dan Secrist, an exhibit fabricator at the state Museum of Natural History and Science, and Ken Long, a highway maintenance worker with the Department of Transportation, recently filed a lawsuit to force the state to pay workers who take time off to vote in municipal elections. Secrist and Long are seeking damages for lost wages or vacation time to compensate any state workers who didnt get paid time off to vote in Albuquerques Oct. 9 municipal elections. Under that reasoning, they would also want two hours of paid time for all state employees who live in Albuquerque to vote in the Nov. 17 mayoral runoff. And how about the next conservancy district election? And the next flood control authority election? And on, and on. And thats just state workers. Under the vague and outdated statute, almost everybody who has a job is eligible for time off to vote in an election, though employers can pick the voting time. (You cant get time off if your shift starts more than two hours after polls open or ends more than three hours before they close.) Given the imprecise wording; the many ways purported voters and bureaucrats can parse it; and the fact it creates two classes of voters, the paid and the unpaid, legislators should revamp the law, then ensure state policies comply. The crux of the matter is whether taxpayers and consumers should pay employees to vote during their regular work day. The answer should be a resounding No. It would cost the state $1.2 million to pay every state employee for two hours to vote, and it would cost $312,000 for just those who live in Albuquerque. The lawsuit begs the question how many employees would skip the ballot box but take the two hours? And how many would vote early or absentee and then take off two hours to vote on Election Day? And who on earth would police them? And what will that cost? In the 2015 November election alone the state found 243 state employees who took paid leave to vote but never did. It took an employee nearly a month to compare Social Security numbers of those who took leave with those in the voter databases and find 42 werent even registered and 201 didnt cast a ballot. There is simply zero accountability in the system, and this lawsuit promises to compound that. Voting is a privilege and a civic duty, and every legal New Mexico resident over the age of 18 should register to vote and cast their ballot. But the world has moved on since state law said workers should get time off to vote. Early and absentee voting, extended polling place hours and voting convenience centers have replaced buggy whips. Lawmakers should update the law to show it. This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers. Weve previously reported on the clashes between City Councilor Dan Lewis and state Auditor Tim Keller during Sundays Congregation Albert mayoral debate, but there were a few other notable exchanges. One of them came after candidates were asked about gun violence. Keller, a former Democratic state senator whose legislative district included the citys International District, said there are sensible things that can be done to curb gun violence. Theres a difference between being anti-gun and actually doing everything you can to keep our community safe, he said, noting that he had a B+ National Rifle Association record in the Legislature. He suggested clamping down on the online resale of guns by buyers who dont want to register those firearms. He said the city also needs to come down on convicted criminals caught with illegal firearms. Lewis said the Legislature should tack on a 10-year sentence for violent felons who use guns and enact three-strikes legislation for repeat offenders. Tim had 10 years in the Senate to get that done but didnt, Lewis said. He also suggested bringing back the death penalty for child murderers and cop killers, adding that Keller voted to do away with the death penalty. I love that I was in the Legislature for 10 years. I was only there for six. It felt like 10, Keller responded, amid laughter from the audience. If those are your solutions to gun violence, run for the state Legislature, he told Lewis, adding that he wants to focus on things the city can do. Keller said that includes such things as adequately funding Albuquerque Police Department detectives, who build cases against criminals. He charged that the City Council hasnt done that. Transgender rights: Another notable exchange came when the candidates were asked to explain their positions on the rights of transgender people. Im proud to say that I have been supportive of equality and social justice for folks regardless of their faith or their choices or their gender preference, Keller said. I was a supporter of gay marriage before when people were trying to parse it with civil union, and its because I just believe in peoples (rights) to be who they want to be. Lewis who last month was endorsed by Legacy Church pastor Steve Smothermon because he could never in any way support the homosexual agenda agreed with Keller. Theres nothing that Tim just said that really I disagree with, other than my personal faith and personal feelings, which everybody has in this city, Lewis said. Everybody has a lot of different feelings and certainly different convictions about that. But everything he just said about being inclusive, about treating people exactly the same way is extremely important. I have a record of treating people fairly and treating people the same, no matter who you are. Martin Salazar: msalazar@abqjournal.com SANTA FE Cheryl Odom said she was afraid of what might become of the 64 acres of city-owned property that the Santa Fe University of Art and Design presumably will be vacating next spring. Because of the secrecy and rumors, I expected the worst, Odom, a former professor at the university and when it was the College of Santa Fe before that, said during a public hearing on the subject held during Monday's Finance Committee meeting. The worst, in her mind, would be a big block of apartment buildings. But she felt better after she read a resolution that calls for a renewed vision for the property to be developed with input from the community. Let's let this be a beginning and see where it goes, she said. City Councilor Mike Harris, who introduced the resolution co-sponsored by Signe Lindell, said he had heard rumors too, and he hoped that the resolution would help dispel them. He said the purpose of the resolution was to try to guide the City Council toward a general consensus about what to do with the property, located on prime real estate near the geographical center of town near where Cerrillos Road and St. Michael's Drive meet. Laureate International Universities, which runs SFUAD, announced in April that it plans to close at the end of the current school year. LIU leases the property from the city, which is paying $2.23 million per year for the next 18 years to the New Mexico Finance Authority to pay off a loan it took out to buy the land in 2009 after the College of Santa Fe shut down. No one is expecting another college to come in, though a desire to retain at least some of the property for use as an educational institution has already been expressed by members of the public and city leaders. It's more likely the property will be used for several different things, in some cases using existing assets. For instance, Scott Jarrett, a music teacher at SFUAD, said he and others are interested in opening a private music school in Benildus Hall, which is already set up for music instruction and has a recording studio. Others agreed that some purpose-built buildings, including those that are a part of Garson Studios, should continue to be used as they are, if possible. Opinions differed, however, on whether SFUAD's Fogelson Library was suitable for conversion to a public library. The most frequent suggestion from the dozen or so people who spoke during the hearing was that at least some of the acreage should be dedicated for housing to help the city address its affordable housing shortage. The public will have two more opportunities to provide input in the next week. Another public hearing is planned during the meeting of the Economic Development Advisory Committee, which Harris chairs, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday at the city's Railyard offices, 500 Market Station. Also, City Councilor Peter Ives, who chairs the Public Works Committee, agreed to hold another public hearing during that committee's meeting at 5 p.m. next Monday at City Hall. Copyright 2017 Albuquerque Journal Nearly 16,000 students at the University of New Mexicos main campus have participated in training meant to curb sexual misconduct, and the university is planning to reach thousands more by years end to ensure compliance with its U.S. Department of Justice agreement. UNM signed the agreement a year ago today in the wake of a 16-month DOJ investigation into how the states largest university handled sexual assault cases. Its requirements include that the university administer The Grey Area training program to all undergraduates with a few exceptions by the end of the 2017 fall semester. The 1- to 2-hour training covers healthy relationships, hooking up, consent, bystander intervention and sexual assault, plus reporting options and UNM policy, according to UNMs website. So far, 13,982 have taken it, according to a progress report UNM sent to the DOJ on Monday. Graduate and professional students must take a specific version of The Grey Area training by Dec. 31; UNM says 1,954 have completed it. UNM has more than 26,000 students enrolled this semester, but some are exempted from the training based on their limited course loads or presence on campus or their involvement in non-degree-granting programs. Officials could not say Monday exactly how many students still need the training, but we anticipate training several thousand additional students with the dozens of sessions still scheduled before the end of the year, Libby Washburn, chief of staff and chief compliance officer, said in a written statement. UNM also has not determined how it will enforce the training requirement; Washburn said the school will decide early next year how to handle students who failed to participate. The progress report which was not mandated by the agreement comes one year into the three-year agreement UNM signed after the DOJ determined the university was not complying with laws that prohibit sex discrimination and had discombobulated policies on sexual misconduct and a confusing reporting structure. More than 90 percent of UNMs faculty, staff and student employees in 2016 took an online training course titled Intersections: Preventing Discrimination and Harassment, according to the report. Employees who deal more specifically with sexual misconduct cases, like campus police and Office of Equal Opportunity staff, have completed a combined 1,500 hours of additional training in areas related to Title IX, rape crisis and trauma informed investigation, according to the new report. In the past year, UNM has made substantial progress in complying with the delineated tasks and implementing improvements, the report states. But the report also acknowledges the scope of the challenge. Despite the progress, UNM has more work to do in attempting to change attitudes and behaviors, it says. Officials are also revising policies related to sexual misconduct and equal opportunity, and plan to put them out for comment this academic year, and bolstering staffing ranks in areas like training and advocacy. Meeting the terms and the added staff will cost an estimated $1.5 million during the three-year agreement, UNM said in a news release. If the DOJ determines UNM is not complying with terms, the parties have 60 days to reach a resolution. If that does not happen, the department may initiate civil enforcement proceedings in federal court, according to the agreement. Compliance has not come without controversy some professors have opposed a UNM policy that requires all faculty members to file reports with the Office of Equal Opportunity when they are told about any sexual violence involving a student. The Faculty Senate objected in a formal resolution that says scholarly research shows that mandatory reporting can have a negative impact on victims. Interim president Chaouki Abdallah has convened a task force to look at the employee reporting requirements; it may suggest changes to the policy, according to the report. NOGALES, Ariz. Border Patrol agents in southern Arizona have arrested four men previously convicted for felonies in the United States and their native Mexico. Agents working near Sasabe early Monday arrested 44-year-old Aloberto Hernandez-Ortiz. A records check on his fingerprints showed he was convicted of murder in Florida and removed from the U.S. in 2014. On Sunday afternoon, Nogales agents arrested 26-year-old Luis Vargas-Vargas after records showed he was convicted of felony sexual conduct with a minor in 2013 in Phoenix. Nogales agents also arrested 40-year-old Jose Burrola-Pliego on Saturday. He was incarcerated in Mexico following a murder conviction in 2011 and has extensive immigration violations. Last Friday, Nogales agents arrested 21-year-old Marcos Cruz-Castro, who was convicted in Wisconsin for exposing a child to harmful materials and misdemeanor charges of sexual assault. This year, News18 India will celebrate Diwali on the borders with our soldiers who will be safeguarding our nation instead of celebrating it with their near and dear ones. Diwali Sarhard Wali will see the channels teams travel from Indo-China border in Tawang in the East to the Indo-Pak border in Jaisalmer in the West to Poonch in the North, lighting up the festive time for our army men. Apart from this Initiative, News18 India is all set to bring a host of other programming initiatives to celebrate the festival of lights with its viewers - a special show Shri Ram Yatra which will trace Lord Ramas journey from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka, exploring places as described in the seven kands of Ramayana to special episodes of its popular shows Lapete Mein Netaji and Bhabhi Tera Dewar Deewana. While the former will host the star cast of Golmaal Again, the latter will feature celebrities from the small screen sharing stories of their way of Diwali celebrations. Adding to the wide range of Diwali specials, the channel will also telecast two special shows. Dhan Jyoti Parv - On the importance of the five-day long festival including Diwali and Dhanteras; Ghar Aayegi Laxmi A special that will give tips on vastu, home decoration and rangoli-making by experts on the occasion of Diwali. We can help you make sense of the agribusiness industry, extending from chemicals and fertilizers used as inputs into agriculture, to the commodities, food and by-products that are an output to farming, with policy and regulation applied at every step of the value chain. California Governor Jerry Brown has officially vetoed Senate Bill 649, a measure that sought to lay down a consistent and uniform procedure and set of rules for the deployment of 5G-capable small cells on public land. The bill was put down in its current iteration due to the balance it struck between public right-of-way interest and small cell placement rights being skewed, according to a letter from Governor Brown that accompanied the veto order. This means that small cell placement and usage in California will continue to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for the time being, though another bill could be introduced later on to try and lock in a concrete procedure for getting small cells approved and placed. The bill was set to allow the placement of small cells in public areas and rights-of-way, and would have put a definite cap on the amount that municipalities could charge companies to issue permits for small cell deployment. While this bill would have accelerated deployment of small cells in California, it would have essentially given small cell deployment agents like wireless carriers and networking technology companies free reign to try to deploy wherever they pleased for a relatively low cost, which could easily result in municipal departments becoming inundated with permit requests or even small cells popping up everywhere, with no regard to the aesthetics or utility of other things near them. A vast swath of Californians opposed the bill, and many municipalities put out official statements in their opposition to the proposal. The speedy and widespread deployment of small cells is paramount to building out a proper and future-proof 5G network, and Governor Brown even acknowledged this in his recently publicized veto message. This bill, however, reportedly put too much emphasis on that importance, casting aside other concerns that may naturally arise when dotting the landscape with small cells. Disagreements like this have become commonplace in recent months, and may well fall under federal purview in the near future. FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai, recently confirmed for a second term, has yet to speak on the matter in any official capacity. Likewise, the CTIA, the organization responsible for creating standards and best practices for the wireless industry, has yet to speak out about this particular bills downfall or the possibility of a federal intervention in the matter. Today, Amazon has discounted a pretty popular blender to just $56, but it also comes with a food processor attachment and an XL personal blending cup as well. So its actually a pretty good deal, and its part of Amazons Gold Box Deal of the Day, so this is good today only. There are also a few other great deals going on over at Amazon right now, including a great sale on micro USB cables from Anker, in case you still need some micro USB cables. They are selling a 10-foot long cable for just $10. Additionally, you can find some great deals on USB-C cables as well, for those that need some USB-C cables for the Pixel 2 XL, LG V30 or even the Galaxy Note 8. There are still plenty of great deals going on in the smart home section as well, with Nests latest security cameras all being on sale. The Nest Cam IQ, Nest Cam, Nest Cam Outdoor are all on sale right now at varying prices. These are great cameras to pick up and use around your home to keep an eye on everything and make sure your home is safe. Advertisement All of the deals listed below that have expirations dates expire at midnight PST on their respective dates. So if you are looking to pick one of these up, youll want to do so before midnight PST. Essential is now reportedly the subject of a new lawsuit brought on by Keyssa, a company who specializes in wireless connector technology. According to a report out of Reuters which in turn cites the filing of a lawsuit today in the U.S. federal court in San Francisco. According to the details, the sum of the lawsuit revolves around Essentials use of a chip (and its related technologies) which allows the Essential PH-1 (otherwise known as the Essential Phone) to connect to various accessories, such as Essentials 360 camera and docking station. While the chip used by Essential is not actually one that was provided by Keyssa, the report (and by association Keyssa itself) explains that it was in talks with Essential for over 10 months to include its version of the chip in the Essential PH-1. Following which, Essential chose to go with a chip manufactured by another company, but while doing so also included some of the Keyssa techniques that it was made privy to during those earlier negotiations. Technology and design talks which Keyssa states were had under a nondisclosure agreement between the two companies. Which is where the basis of the lawsuit resides with Keyssa effectively accusing Essential of stealing trade secrets (as well as not compensating Keyssa for the use of the tech) and using them to bring to market its debut smartphone and accessories. While lawsuits to some degree have become common practice in the mobile industry, this one does come with an extra added element of drama due to a Google association between the two companies. As Keyssa is a company that is reportedly backed by Tony Fadell (who is also listed on the companys site as an adviser), the co-founder of Nest, while Essential of course, was founded by a co-creator of Android, Andy Rubin. Although neither of the ex-Googlers were noted as directly part of, or listed in the recent court filings. Reuters did reach out to Essential for comment although one was not provided at the time with Essential stating that it has yet to be served with the lawsuit. While Keyssa stated in the same report that the lawsuit is the result of Keyssa having been unable to resolve the issue with Essential through other means. Ubers Head of Policy and Communications for Europe, Middle East & Africa left the company after only a year in the role, with Christopher Burghardt confirming hes now set to join ChargePoint, a Californian firm that specializes in developing, building, and maintaining charging networks for electric vehicles. Mr. Burghardts departure comes only several weeks after another senior executive left the most valuable startup in the world in the aftermath of Uber losing its London license and consequently prompting its Northern European Manager Jo Bertram to resign her position. Much like Ms. Bertram, Mr. Burghardt already found a new employer by the time he announced his decision to leave the ride-hailing service provider, marking yet another major depature at the company which has been struggling with various issues in recent times but now also appears to be bleeding talent. Ubers executive will take the role of a Managing Director at ChargePoint where hes set to start in November, suggesting that hell be officially leaving his current firm by October 31st. Mr. Burghardt remained supportive of Ubers existing endeavors and stated that Dara Khosrowshahi is capable of ensuring Uber has a sustainable future after replacing ousted Chief Executive Officer Travis Kalanick in September. Ubers struggles in Europe wont end with Mr. Burghardts departure as London officials still appear to be adamant to keep the company out of one of its largest markets in the world. Mr. Khosrowshahis recent apology tour encompassed London whose major praised the new CEOs humility but no firm resolutions have been reached and while Uber said it isnt looking to settle the dispute in court, the company now officially appealed Transport for Londons decision to deny its license renewal in a bid to continue operating in the city while judicial bodies are examining its complaint. The San Francisco, California-based tech giant is also currently in the process of concluding its negotiations with Japanese tech giant SoftBank over the largest private stock acquisition ever made which would provide SoftBank with a stake in Uber of up to 20 percent worth around $10 billion. In the medium term, Uber is hoping to go public by 2019 and allow its existing investors to cash out on the company while raising additional cash to continue pursuing its aggressive expansion efforts. The Google+ Android app is now in the process of receiving an update which brings with it greater support for Androids App Shortcuts. The version of the app is v9.23 and is understood the be in the process of rolling out with the Google Play Store listing noting an October 16 updated date. Although at present the changelog for the most recent update simply advises of the usual performance enhancements and bug fixes. In spite of the lack of detailed information on the Google Play Store listing, it is clear that with this update comes an expansion to App Shortcuts. This is the feature Google introduced last year along with Android 7.1 (Nougat) which looks to offer users a quicker way to perform more in-app actions without having to launch the app in the first place. Which is exactly what is on offer now with this latest update. As prior to this update, holding down on the Google+ app icon would only provide the default App Shortcut options Widgets and App info. Following the update however, the App Shortcuts now lists three new options Create a Poll, Photos/videos, and Create a new post. Needless to say, these are options which are largely self-explanatory. For example, Create a Poll provides the user with a much quicker way to launch the Poll option without opening the app. Likewise, Photos/videos allows the user to immediately open the devices gallery within the Google+ app which in turn allows for quicker posting of photos and videos to Google+. While Create a post creates a new post. Irrespective of which post type the user tries to initiate through the App Shortcut, if the user happens to have more than one Google+ account (including brand accounts) the app will always first prompt the user to select the right account first. So for those users, this does always result in two clicks before the post type interface launches. As mentioned, the latest version of the app with the new App Shortcuts included seems to be on its way out to devices, although those looking for the latest version sooner than that, will find a copy of the APK available to download and sideload through the link below. X, the Alphabet division working on moonshot projects, has released a statement regarding the rumored spin-off of Project Loon. In a tweet, the company acknowledged the presence of rumors concerning its internet initiative and categorically stated that Project Loon is still a part of X. The rumors emerged after a recent filing with the Federal Communications Commission referred to the moonshot as Loon Inc. This is not the first time that a moonshot project became an independent company, with Waymo being a very recent example. Researchers from X have been working on a self-driving car project for a number of years before Waymo became a standalone operation last year. In addition, Alphabet is involved in other moonshot projects that may become independent operations in the future, including its clean energy storage tech project called Malta. Project Loon is expected to earn money by selling infrastructure to carriers across the globe. Last year, Google started collaborating with Indian network operators in order to give internet access to residents living in areas that lack communications infrastructure. The company aims to send multiple balloons at high altitudes, with each balloon serving either as an LTE base station or as a Wi-Fi hotspot. Since then, Google has inked deals with local carriers in order to use licensed spectrum to provide last-mile connectivity, in addition to utilizing unlicensed 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz spectrum. Aside from the base station equipment, each balloon contains relay facilities that enable point-to-point communication. Each balloon could offer download speeds of 10Mbps and have a range of 20 kilometers, or 12.42 miles. The research and development behind Project Loon started as early as 2011, although it was only officially announced in June 2013. In the same month, Google conducted the first test of its technology in Christchurch, New Zealand, and additional pilot programs were organized in Australia, Argentina, Brazil, and Chile soon afterward. It has also collaborated with a number of research institutions and government agencies. A notable example of this collaboration is the joint venture formed by the Sri Lankan government, telephone service operators, and Google which allows existing wireless carriers to expand their reach to remote areas in the South Asian country. Advertisement Rumors have been floating about that #ProjectLoon has left X. We'd like to put a pin in that theory & confirm the balloons are still here. pic.twitter.com/WbGlP3xB31 The Team at X (@Theteamatx) October 16, 2017 Samsung today announced the introduction of a new product, the Samsung Connect Tag. As the name suggests, the key selling point here is that this is a tag which is also connected. Meaning it can be used as a way for to track anything, anywhere and everywhere. In terms of availability, Samsung has yet to provide full and frank details on this, and as such there is no current information on when it will become generally available, where it will be available, or how much it will be priced at when it does become available. With Samsung only currently revealing that it will first become available to buy in South Korea before becoming available in select countries in the coming months. The tag itself uses Narrowband technology which Samsung not only notes is the first product to do so, but also further explains that this is a cellular communication designed for small data and low power usage, as well as a reliable connection. Which Samsung argues makes it an ideal tracking solution for just about anything. Even more so as the device is capable of tracking both indoors and outdoors due to its support for GPS, Wi-Fi-based positioning (WPS) and Cell ID. Although what is arguably even more appealing is the battery life on offer, with Samsung explaining the included 300 mAh battery will offer up to seven days of usage before needing to be charged again. This is a unit which is powered by Tizen although it is one which is designed to work with an Android app and on devices running Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) at a minimum. Some of the examples Samsung provides as use cases for the new Connected Tag include its ability to be attached to a childs bag for location information, or to a pets collar in case the pet goes missing, or simply to find the car in a busy parking lot. Adding to its fairly extensive feature list is an IP68 certification for dust and water-resistance, which among other things will prove even more useful with cases such as the pet monitoring and finding, as regardless of the environment the tag encounters it is designed to be durable enough to keep working. While these are just some examples, the message Samsung is trying to get across is due to its long-lasting battery, low-demanding technology, small sized body, and durable nature, the usage possibility are fairly endless. Samsung may be ready to change the tone of the mobile industry yet again with rumors and speculation swirling around a new smartphone currently known as the Samsung Galaxy X. It is a handset that has been making the rounds since very early in the year and what makes the device interesting is that it is rumored to be a foldable smartphone. Which could, in effect, make the Galaxy X a real game-changer if Samsung can overcome the current obstacles standing in its way and bring the full weight of its influence to bear. Meanwhile, although most in the industry have not been pushing towards similar technologies, there are one or two companies Samsung will need to contend with who could deliver similar features to the market at around the same time. Samsung has, to begin with, spent years creating both the manufacturing processes and the technology it will be putting into its Galaxy X line-up. That gives it a reasonable head start over its competition in the premium smartphone space. At the moment, the biggest threats to its top-tier smartphone dominance come from Apple, LG, and to some extent, Google. However, none of those companies are currently known to have spent anywhere near as much time, if any, working on a foldable hybrid mobile platform, let alone the processes or materials required to fully realize such a device. Samsungs device is also expected to hit within that same upper portion of the market with current rumors suggesting that it will arrive in at least one market likely the U.S. with a Snapdragon 835 SoC on board, accompanied by other high-end components and specs. Other markets should see an equivalent or slightly more beefy set of specs thanks to the inclusion of a Samsung-built Exynos SoC if the companys past releases are anything to go by. With that in mind, the company is hardly the only one with a drive to create the folding smartphones of the future. ZTE seemingly has its own device in the works and its one that hinges on what could be the same technological advancements unless Samsung has gone way outside of the box with its own devices flexibility. Granted, the ZTE Axon M is likely to be a more budget-friendly device compared to Samsungs, and, by proxy, wont be a direct competitor. However, whats important here is that Samsung is not the only major player in the mobile space looking at making folding or flexible smartphones a reality. Moreover, with the technology being completely new and relatively untested, it could turn out that not many people want to pay a premium to try out such a new form factor, especially when cheaper devices are available with similar features. Whats more, the company has been losing some market share in some important world regions, such as India, which may indicate that the world is beginning to look beyond Samsung for new innovations. So the companys eventual sales and, following that, its influence could be undercut by a company that it isnt even trying to compete with. Despite this, Samsung has overcome some massive hurdles in the past, the company is also undergoing substantial corporate shuffling, following the resignation of its CEO and the incarceration of a prominent chairman. The shift could have a significant impact on the company, possibly even delaying its plans for the Galaxy X, or it could ultimately mean almost nothing to the companys bottom line. Which of those things ends up being truer than not is going to depend on how well its internal operations have been modularized to resist the likely negative effects which can be caused by major changes to leadership. Advertisement Samsung will be able to draw on experience gained through the generation of new user interactions in the past, such as with the creation of its relatively new Edge displays and consistent improvements to its S-Pen. Thats not to say that none of its rivals in the space have undertaken considerable efforts of their own in generating new user experiences. Unfortunately, for the competition at least, most of those efforts have been meant for devices with similar hardware to their previous releases or for use on devices with a form factor that was already well understood. Meanwhile, Samsung has already been creating new interactions to work alongside hardware changes that fundamentally shifted what was possible. Any new experiences created by Samsung will almost certainly be emulated to varying degrees when top-end smartphone manufacturers finally do begin to release their own folding or flexible smartphones. It is also true that any competition brought to its Galaxy X is likely to be a boon for the entire industry, particularly if competing devices arent in the same price bracket as Samsungs new foldable phone. That could easily serve to normalize the technology across the market and pressure other smartphone makers to get on board with their own offerings, which would logically lead to even further advancements. Eventually, the improvements made could lead to a convergence between smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets. The technology could also lend itself to even more extreme and unforeseeable changes, as is often the case with new technologies. Whether that actually happens and whether Samsungs efforts are enough to really alter the way users view smartphones is not for certain. However, if the whole thing holds together, the future of mobile devices could be in things that may seem a bit far-flung today, thanks, at least in part, to Samsung. All that remains to be seen is whether or not the Galaxy X or any of the other devices in question live up to all of the rumor-fueled hype. Chinese phone maker ZTE officially announced the Axon M earlier today, revealing a highly unusual device designed to stand out from the competition with its unconventional aesthetic but also utilize its full potential and provide users with some functionalities that regular smartphones and even tablets are unable to replicate. While the handset doesnt feature the best hardware to date, the Shenzhen-based original equipment manufacturer isnt highlighting its basic internal specs as some of its selling points. Instead, the ZTE Axon M is targeted at a surprisingly large demographic given its aggressively unique design and seeks to prove its more than just a gimmick in a variety of ways. The standout feature of the newly announced smartphone is its overall look encompassing two 5.2-inch LCD screens connected with a hinge in a setup that allows the user to fold out the ZTE Axon M by 180 degrees and come as close to connecting the two panels as the hinge itself allows them to. While this functionality could be considered a gimmick by itself, ZTE did its best to make it more than just a curiosity with the goal of allowing the Axon M to transcend the scope of a one-trick pony and convince consumers that two screens on a hinge are something that they actually need or could at least benefit from under the right circumstances. Thats where the smartphones various display modes come into play; the ZTE Axon M supports four of them, with three being rather unconventional and largely unique to this Android device. The most straightforward display mode of the ZTE Axon M is the Extended one whose relatively self-explanatory name denotes a state in which the two screens of the handset attempt to blend into one and jointly display the same content. This feature can be seen in the image below and was designed to both enhance productivity in certain apps by providing users with more screen real estate to work with and ennoble regular media viewing experiences, according to ZTE. The latter claim has yet to be verified to work in real-world scenarios seeing how the hinge of the Axon M is large enough to visibly break up the two screens and may prove to be too big of a distraction to deliver a truly immersive experience despite what the manufacturer says. Still, ZTEs partner AT&T remains adamant that the Axon M is the ideal portable device to pair with its DIRECTV NOW streaming service and even if it isnt, being able to turn a 5.2-inch screen into a 6.75-inch one with a bit of space down the middle should still prove to be useful while reading and writing using the phones Extended mode. Advertisement The second viewing mode of the Axon M carries another self-explanatory name Dual and turns the device into a multitasking tool while its two screens are folded out. With the Axon M running Android 7.1.2 Nougat out of the box, it wont have access to the Picture in Picture mode of Android 8.0 Oreo at launch but will at least be able to provide you with a true multitasking experience by having each one of its screens run its own app simultaneously. Furthermore, nothing appears to be stopping users from activating Nougats natively supported Multi-Window feature to use three or more apps in a manner thats much more convenient than what smaller smartphones allow if the Dual mode proves to be too limiting in some scenarios. The final mode supported by ZTEs latest offering is the Mirror one, providing you with the ability to have the two screens of the handset display the same image regardless of whether theyre next to each other or if the smartphone is folded. The Chinese company suggested that this particular functionality should prove to be particularly useful for certain types of apps like games with multiplayer capabilities, allowing players to enjoy local multiplayer in an entirely new way. The possibility of such scenarios will likely depend on support that third-party mobile game developers decide to provide to the ZTE Axon M, though some simple reaction games should already be playable using this mode without any compatibility updates. Advertisement You can still use the device as a regular smartphone and have its back screen turned off when you dont need it, which ZTE calls the Traditional mode. The foldable nature of the ZTE Axon M also allowed the OEM to focus on just a single camera, consequently providing users with a 20-megapixel (f/1.8) module which can be used both for video calls and selfies, as well as more traditional imagery like landscapes and portraits, depending on how you rotate the device. Finally, while the ZTE Axon Ms battery isnt removable, it supports Qualcomms Quick Charge 3.0, being able to go from zero to 100 percent in just over two hours, according to the OEM. More about this here and here. Without question, Christies confidently declared last week, Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundi (being auctioned on Nov. 15 in New York) is the greatest artistic rediscovery of the 21st century. Really? With 83 years still remaining in this century, were entitled to pose a few questions. First off: Might this century have other extraordinary rediscoveries that are yet to come? Even Leonardo seems to have new contenders for his canon emerging every few years, although they usually dont gain the overwhelming expert consensus of true believers that has embraced Salvator Mundi. Of more pressing importance: How great is the greatest artistic rediscovery of the last 17 years (if not the 21st century)? After the paintings meet-the-press moment last week at Christies, New York, it was whisked away on a tour intended to drum up interest in Hong Kong, San Francisco and London. Unable to attend the press preview, Ill have to await its return to see it firsthand. But written assessments of Jesus condition indicate that what well see at the auction house is a far cry from what Leonardo saw on the easel. Some degradation is inherent in any 500-year-old. But this one has experienced some particularly rough treatment. To give it a rejuvenating makeover, a lot of work needed to be done. Not that youd know that from what Christies has written in about the paintings state of preservation: Both of Christs hands, the exquisitely rendered curls of his hair, the orb, and much of his drapery are in fact remarkably well preserved and close to their original state. So far, so good. But the elephant not in the room is the condition of the most crucial part of the compositionJesus face. Below is an excerpt from the entry for Salvator Mundi in the catalogue of the National Gallery, London, for its 2011-12 exhibition, Leonardo da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan. That comprehensive show was the paintings coming-out party as an authentic Leonardo: In 1913 Tancred Borenius catalogued it as a free copy after Boltraffio, twice removed therefore from Leonardo. In 1958 it was sold from the [Sir Francis] Cook collection, still as a copy after Boltraffio. The low esteem in which it was held is easy to explain: By the time it came into Francis Cooks possession it had been very considerably overpainted. Christs blessing hand was the least altered but his head had been almost entirely reinvented. The reasons for such abundant overpaint are also clear. Though both Christs hands are well preserved, elsewhere the picture has suffered. Sometime in the past the panel split in two, causing paint losses along the length of the crack. It has also been aggressively over-cleaned, with some abrasion of the whole picture surface and especially in the face and hair of Christ. [Emphases added.] If previous restorers believed the head needed to be almost entirely reinvented, then we may have strayed a long way from the artists vision and from Jesus original gaze, unless the cleaning and the removal of the overpaint allowed its respected conservatorDianne Dwyer Modestinito make reliable, informed guesses about Leonardos intentions. A senior research fellow and conservator of the Kress Program in Paintings Conservation at NYUs Institute of Fine Arts, Modestini published a 13-page article, Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundi Rediscovered, 2014, in which she detailed her thought processes and meticulous ministrations to bring the deadened painting back to life in what Christies calls an extensive restoration. (I dont have a link to Modestinis article, but it can be found in Leonardo da Vincis Technical Practice: Paintings, Drawings and Influence, February 2014, which can be ordered here.) Modestinis report includes photos of the paintings losses as revealed by the painstaking removal of as much as possible of previous botched restorations. The owner of those photos, Salvator Mundi LLC, licensed them for exclusive use by Christies during the period surrounding the auction. I am awaiting the auction houses answer to my request for permission to reproduce two of those images. In the meantime, below are two excerpts from the article by Modestini, widow of the late, renowned old masters restorer Mario Modestini, to whom she showed Salvator Mundi, before cleaning and restoration, when he was 98 years old. He then deemed it to be by a very great artist, a generation after Leonardo. This is Diannes inside account of her work on the rediscovered Leonardo, in which she candidly discusses the difficult judgment calls that old-masters conservators often must make: Since both eyes have been abraded, the left one to a greater degree than the right, the ambiguity between abrasion and highlight made the restoration extremely difficult and I redid it numerous times. As little as possible was done to the left eye. No attempt was made, for example, to emphasize the pupil, which is reasonably well preserved in the right eye. Carefully following the remnants of [the] original, which contain a line of drawing to place the lower lid, resulted in eyes of slightly different size; the left is smaller than the right. Imposing a more logical or definite shape caused the eyes to completely change character. Fortunately, apart from the discrete losses, the flesh tones of the face retain their entire layer structure, including the final scumbles and glazes. The passages have not suffered from abrasion; if they had I wouldnt have been able to reconstruct the losses. When I asked Christies for a copy of its own condition report, which will be made publicly available, the auction houses spokesperson told me this: Its a bit too early to send through the report, but we will have one by the time that the catalogue comes out in a couple of weeks. In the meantime, heres what I can tell you about the condition: Salvator Mundi is a 500-year-old painting and like most of that age, it has endured some wear and tear over the centuries. Significant areas remain in fine condition and many of the most important elements of the picturethe blessing hand, the orb, Christs vestments, the curls in his hairare remarkably intact. Conspicuously unmentioned: the facial features. Among discerning old masters collectors, condition counts. That brings me to another question raised by last weeks launch: Why is Leonardo crashing the evening sale of Post-war and Contemporary Art, rather than congenially consorting with his fellow old masters? Its a surprising gambit, which Ill parse in a future post. A similar break with convention is now on view at the Museum of Modern Arta pairing (to Jan. 1) of a Leonardo drawing with a work by Charles White (in an Artists Choice display curated by David Hammons). It seems that Leonardo/contemporary-art pairings are becoming a thing. At MoMA, it seems to be all about the drapery: Free newsletter Subscribe to our FREE newsletter service and well keep you up-to-date with the latest breaking news, cutting edge opinion, and expert analysis affecting both your business and the industry as whole. Please enter your email address below and click on Sign Up for daily newsletters from Australasian Lawyer. The PSA has been testing its new generation of small utility vehicles (hey, that makes them SUVs as well) that will eventually strip their camouflage to reveal the next Peugeot Partner and the Citroen Berlingo (as well as the Opel Combo, now that the German brand has been bought by the French conglomerate). We've spotted the duo at the start of the summer and it's been making appearances ever since.None like the one today, though. The Peugeot has been sighted testing in the Spanish mountains, and it seems as though the higher altitude didn't do it very well. Actually, the poor van looks as though it has swollen up all the smoke created by Volkswagen's dirty diesels and released it in one go. But the rarefied air might actually offer a plausible explanation since the air/fuel mixture could have been thrown off-balance causing the unburnt fuel particles to come out of the exhaust.It's not uncommon for oil-burning engines to release this black smoke under acceleration, but they usually do it under work. Here, the Partner is just sitting in a car park with the driver repeatedly stomping on the throttle pedal. Because that's what you do when you're French: you cross the border into Spain and pollute their air for a change.Not much is known about the new Partner/Berlingo/Combo combo, and the vehicles haven't shed any of their camouflage since the first encounter, so they're not helping either. However, the pictures suggest they might have grown a little, which means their payload must have increased as well.Naturally, that requires more powerful engines as well as buffs to the other sub-systems (brakes, suspension). We expect the French utility vehicles to use four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines (like the one seen here) as well as gasoline ones - though the diesel should make up the brunt of the sales where available. The latest example of this comes from the drag race we have here, which sees the German and the Italian being thrown at each other without the slightest trace of mercy.The Zuffenhausen and the Maranello beasts got together on the UK's Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome in a sprinting battle that was anything but fair.For one thing, the Prancing Horse easily dominates the Porscha in terms of the power-to-weight ratio. The Ferrari's 605 hp 4.5-liter V8, which has brought it a record for a street-legal naturally aspirated machine, allows it to pack 2.5 kg/hp.As for the 500 hp 4.0-liter flat-six that makes the Porsche we have here so special in the 997 lineup, this sees the car delivering 3 kilos per pony.Porsches have always been known for dominating their classes while playing the underdog hp card, but we must keep in mind that the Neunelfer comes with a six-speed manual, while the Italian exotic uses a dual-clutch tranny.The gearbox difference and the standing starts (the supercars went for three separate races) means the driver can make a world of a difference and you'll get to see that in the racing footage.Oh, and there's one more aspect you need to consider, namely that there's a generation gap between the two velocity tools we have here.Speaking of speed, while you'll find the races at the 9:38 point of the clip, we'd stick around for the rest of the video, since it packs plenty of surprises. AMG A post shared by DC Tuning (@dctuning) on Oct 15, 2017 at 7:55am PDT Porsche Macan Turbo @[email protected]>B:0 48709=0 8 ?>;=0 >:;59:0 2 <0B>2K9 :0 A post shared by DC Tuning (@dctuning) on Oct 16, 2017 at 3:48am PDT Porsche Macan Turbo @[email protected]>B:0 48709=0 8 ?>;=0 >:;59:0 2 <0B>2K9 :0 A post shared by DC Tuning (@dctuning) on Oct 16, 2017 at 10:41am PDT To be honest, the Porsche Macan is enjoying less attention that it deserves these days. That's because the Zuffenhausen compact crossover is starting to age, while the competition in its segment is simply unprecedented.We're referring to the trio of 510 hp monsters comprised of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, the Mercedes-GLC63 S and GLC63 S Coupe - we'll remind you that the most potent Macan you can currently grab is the Performance Package-gifted Turbo, which deliver 440 horses.And you can expect Macan owners to turn to all sorts of aftermarket trips in order to keep their Zuffenhausen animals under the spotlights.One of the easiest ways to do so is to turn to the wrap industry and we are now bringing you the freshest example of this. We're looking at a Macan Turbo that has been given an urabn camouflage wrap, one that completely transforms the appearance of the crossover. It's worth noting that this wrap comes all the way from Russia.The red accents of the second skin job are obviously the icing on this cake, since they manage to achieve so much while using so little surface. These also happen to match the hue of the brake calipers - no, this Turbo doesn't come with PCCB (Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes), with the high-riding model using red calipers.Returning to the Macan itself, the German automotive producer is currently working on the mid-cycle refresh for the compact crossover. We've spied the revised Macan on multiple occasions, but we might have to wait for next in order for the vehicle to make its public debut.So far, the only major exterior change we've noticed comes from the taillights, which will use a connected appearance, as it is now the case with the rest of the Porsche lineup. In fact, Porsche has managed to keep most of the details of the facelift concealed, but we should get our hands on fresh info in the following months. Tiangong 1, China's first space lab, will make an uncontrolled descent to Earth sometime before April after the country lost control of the craft due to its rapidly decaying orbit, per The Guardian. The reentry into Earth's atmosphere should burn up most of the craft, but 220-pound pieces of debris could reach Earth's surface. China has told the United Nations the chances of the lab wreaking any havoc on the ground are "very low," but that it would closely monitor the craft's reentry. Think back: It's not the first uncontrolled reentry of a large spacecraft, as Skylab broke up over Australia in 1979. And no word if Taco Bell will set up a target for Tiangong 1 to offer free tacos to every American like it did with Mir's descent in 2001. A group of Midwestern Republican senators are meeting Tuesday with EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt to express their concerns about the agency's recent moves on ethanol, according to a spokesman for Sen. Grassley. The Iowa Republican lunched with Pruitt Monday to discuss the same issues. Why it matters: Ethanol is one of the few energy issues that's controversial within the Republican Party, so expect this tension to wear on throughout President Trump's time in the White House. This meeting comes ahead of a November 30 deadline for EPA to issue final annual regulations as part of the federal ethanol mandate. Behind the scenes: Pruitt has been frustrated with Grassley's aggressive intervention on the mandate, according to a senior government official with knowledge of the situation. Grassley, as chairman of the Judiciary Committee that has jurisdiction over judicial nominees and the Russian investigation, is one of the most powerful senators on Capitol Hill. Trump has made clear to Pruitt that he needs to work with Grassley to resolve their dispute over the mandate, according to the official. An EPA spokesman declined to comment on Grassley's role or Pruitt's perceived frustration. The backstory: President Trump has supported ethanol, which comes mostly from corn and is thus important to senators from corn-rich states, like Iowa. Pruitt, in his former job as attorney general of Oklahoma, signed onto litigation opposing the federal mandate, also called the renewable fuel standard (RFS). Trump has aggressively supported the mandate and campaigned heavily on it while touring Iowa during the presidential campaign. Gritty details: Grassley and a bipartisan group of roughly 30 senators sent a letter Monday urging Pruitt to increase the volumes of biodiesel it requires as part of the ethanol mandate, which mandates that EPA issue annual quotas for different types of biofuels. The agency in September took a rare step by proposing to reduce the levels of biodiesel and advanced biofuels the mandate would require. Grassley and other senators are also concerned about EPA's possible policy change regarding exported biofuels. "Sen. Grassley will oppose any effort to reduce blending levels or otherwise undermine the RFS to help a handful of merchant refiners," a spokesman for Grassley said. "Those efforts are not necessary, and run contrary to the stated commitment of President Trump and Administrator Pruitt to maintain and defend the integrity of the RFS." About that meeting: At least a half dozen GOP senators are expected to attend, including Senators Roy Blunt from Missouri and Joni Ernst of Iowa, according to spokespeople for their offices. It has been three months since Kevin SigRist stepped down as chief investment officer for the $94 billion North Carolina Retirement Systems, but the NC Treasurer's Office has yet to formally post a listing for his full-time successor. In fact, only one investment job is currently listed for NCRS, even though around a quarter of the staffers present for a March 2017 investment committee meeting have since left. Bottom line: The NCRS investment staff has been in turmoil since Treasurer Dale Folwell took office in January, promising to reduce fees paid to Wall Street firms but not much of anything else. Activity: Folwell has pulled NCRS out of some hedge funds for the sake of fee-savings, but plugged that money into cash and bonds instead of into public equity vehicles like passive indexes. He also has not approved any new investments since taking office including re-ups with existing managers even though various asset class exposures are currently below approved allocations. Per Folwell spokesman Frank Lester: "Currently, Christopher Morris and Jeff Smith are serving in the capacity of Interim Chief Investment Officer (CIO). The previous CIO, Kevin SigRist, resigned less than three months ago. In 2009-2010, the Investment Management Division had an Interim CIO for more than 9 month. In 2012-2013, IMD had an Interim CIO for more than 10 months. We are always looking for qualified individuals to assume leadership roles with IMD and the Department of State Treasurer.... We are very pleased with Mr. Morris and Mr. Smith's performance and have not felt the need to post as of yet." Peter Thiel got married in Vienna this past weekend, Axios has learned. Guests came expecting to celebrate the billionaire venture capitalist's 50th birthday, but instead were surprised by a wedding to longtime boyfriend Matt Danzeisen. Thiel, who was an early investor in Facebook and a co-founder of PayPal, endorsed Donald Trump during the campaign and has been a rare voice of support for the president in Silicon Valley. Thiel's spokesman declined to comment for this story. The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia slammed into Ireland's west coast Monday afternoon, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to the region. So far three people have been reported dead as a result of the storm, per BBC. Red alert: Met Eireann, Ireland's National Meteorological Service, put the entire country on red alert Sunday evening, warning that there was a "danger to life and property" due to the storm's "violent and destructive" winds. The alert will remain in place until Tuesday at 1 a.m. BST. The latest: The European Union has publicized an extensive agreement to deepen its political and economic relations with Armenia which is expected to be signed during an EU summit next month. Citing common values shared by the two sides, the draft Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) calls for increasing the participation of the Republic of Armenia in policies, programs and agencies of the European Union. It commits the Armenian government to implementing political reforms and approximating national economic laws and regulations to those of the EU. Armenia controversially joined the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) less than three years ago, following an unexpected decision that was announced by President Serzh Sarkisian in September 2013. The volte face, widely attributed to Russian pressure, thwarted the signing of an Armenia-EU Association Agreement which had a far-reaching free-trade component. Most political provisions of that ill-fated agreement are thought to have been incorporated into the CEPA. The Parties shall intensify their dialogue and cooperation in the area of foreign and security policy, including the common security and defense policy, reads the alternative accord, which is more than 350 pages long. It calls for joint efforts to combat international terrorism, prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction and promote conflict resolution. Another stated aim of the accord finalized in March is the strengthening of democracy and of political, economic and institutional stability in Armenia. The EU is to help the Armenian authorities prevent human rights abuses and reform Armenias judicial and law-enforcement systems.A lack of independent courts and widespread corruption among judges and law-enforcement officers remain a serious obstacle to the rule of law in the country. The CEPA contains much more extensive and specific provisions on economic matters. Armenia, it says, will gradually approximate its economic and financial regulations and policies to those of the European Union, as appropriate. Yerevan will regularly report to Brussels on the progress made with regard to approximation specified by several annexes to the agreement. This regulatory harmonization would cover a wide range of areas, including business regulation, agriculture, transport, environment, consumer protection and even energy. In particular, the CEPA envisages EU-Armenia cooperation on the diversification of energy sources and routes. Armenia currently buys nuclear fuel and more than 80 percent of its natural gas from Russia. These energy resources generate more than two-thirds of its electricity. The CEPA also covers bilateral trade. Each Party shall apply import duties and charges in accordance with its obligations established under the [World Trade Organization] Agreement, it says. Each side must also ensure most-favored-nation treatment to goods imported from the other. There is no reference to Armenias membership in the EEU which means that import duties set by Russia and the five other ex-Soviet states making up the Russian-led bloc are largely identical. The EU and Armenia would also seek to ease non-tariff barriers to their trade such as technical regulations and licensing and labelling requirements. The CEPA contains even more detailed provisions on the enforcement of intellectual property rights and mutual recognition of patents. The draft agreement further makes clear that the authorities in Yerevan can count on greater financial assistance from the EU. It cautions, however, that the scale of extra aid will depend on the pace of the reforms promised by them. Johannes Hahn, the EU commissioner for European neighborhood policy, hailed the groundbreaking new agreement with Armenia when he visited Yerevan earlier this month. He said it will not only deepen the EUs ties with Armenia but also serve as an example to other countries. Speaking after talks with Hahn, Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian confirmed that the deal is due to be signed at the EUs November 24 summit in Brussels. Earlier, President Sarkisian dismissed suggestions that the CEPA, just like the Association Agreement, may collapse at the last minute. We have no reason to not sign that document, he said. A senior representative of the Armenian police on Tuesday called for the passage of a government bill aimed at combatting domestic violence and helping its predominantly female victims. The bill drafted by Armenias Justice Ministry would introduce criminal and administrative liability for specific cases defined as domestic violence. It would also obligate the state to protect female victims by providing them with special shelters or banning their violent spouses from approaching them and even their children. The proposed legislation is strongly backed by womens rights groups campaigning for much tougher government action against the practice. But it has met with fierce resistance from some conservative groups and nationalist public figures. The two sides argued bitterly during a public discussion on the bill organized by the Justice Ministry on October 9. The heated debate continued during hearings on the issue held in the Armenian parliament on Tuesday.Colonel Nelly Durian, head of a national police division dealing with childrens rights and domestic violence, was among senior officials who attended and spoke at the hearings. We have violence within families and must do everything to help its victims, to help children, women and even those individuals who resort to violence, said Durian. I think that this bill is aimed at doing just that. The police recorded 3,571 cases of domestic violence from 2012-2016. Womens rights groups have long accused the police of being too lenient towards men systematically ill-treating their wives or children and even turning a blind eye to their violent conduct. Echoing statements by law-enforcement officials, Deputy Justice Minister Vigen Kocharian said that Armenias existing criminal and family codes do not sufficiently empower relevant authorities to tackle the problem. Hence, the need for a special law against it, Kocharian told the hearings. About 47 percent of cases of sexual abuse of minors take places in family milieus, the official said. Some people may not be concerned about this problem, but we are concerned. Hasmik Khachatrian, a young woman who was abused by her husband for almost a decade, also made a case for the bills passage during the discussion. She said it would protect victims of domestic violence and spare them the kind of obstacles which I have encountered. The draft, which is due to be debated by the Armenian parliament soon, defines four types of such abuse: physical, sexual, psychological and economic. Some lawmakers asked Kocharian to elaborate on psychological and economic violence, which prompted a particularly heated discussion among participants of the hearings. 17 October 2017 10:12 (UTC+04:00) By Trend Over the past 24 hours, Armenias armed forces have 105 times violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said on October 17. Armenians were using large-caliber machine guns. 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 us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 11:24 (UTC+04:00) By Trend The Baku Shopping Festival is a grandiose event, said former OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair James Warlick in his interview with the Festivals website (www.bakushopfest.com). Expressing his regret about not being able to attend the Festival, the diplomat assured that he would definitely take part in the next festivals and take advantage of discounts. I visited the official website of the Baku Shopping Festival, which is a grandiose event, noted Warlick. The 2nd Baku Shopping Festival, which aims to turn Baku into a regional trading center, will be held October 15-November 15. During the festival, customers in more than 400 stores of Baku will be able to purchase clothes, electronics, household appliances, furniture, perfumes and cosmetics, as well as other products from leading global brands within special campaigns and with discounts. In addition, the Tax Free system will be applied to the goods purchased. During the Festival, it is planned to organize interactive games, fashion shows and other entertaining activities. Azerbaijani and foreign guests, who make purchases worth more than 100 manats in stores labeled with the Baku Shopping Festival - Tax Free stickers, get an opportunity to return a certain part of the value-added tax (VAT) from the amount spent. VAT refund is only possible in the stores labeled with these stickers. The certain part of the VAT amount can be refunded in cash or by transfer to a customers card/bank account. The 2nd Baku Shopping Festival is organized by the Azerbaijan Convention Bureau under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan. For the first time, the Baku Shopping Festival was held April 10-May 10, 2017. Additional information about the Festival can be obtained by calling (+99412) 498-20-63. Email: [email protected] Web: www.bakushopfest.com For media representatives: http://bakushopfest.com/for-media-inquiries/ (1.7003 AZN = 1 USD on October 16) --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 15:20 (UTC+04:00) By Amina Nazarli After considerable cigarette import in the amount of 9 billion which cost significant $150 million for Azerbaijan, the state made a call to increase tobacco production. With 47-percent smoking population, who use in the average 15 cigarettes a day, Azerbaijan produce only 1.6 billion cigarettes from over 10 billion consumed in the republic. To increase the capacity of the existing cigarette factories and establish the new ones, the government targets to double production of tobacco by 2021 from the current 3,200 to about 6,000 hectares. PhD in Economics Rufat Guliyev positively assessed establishment of the Association noting that this is a good step to bring together all producers of tobacco, as well as exporters, and establish links between them. This step will create a synergistic effect and will allow to use each other's experience, and share technologies. Over the past 15 years, new varieties have been introduced in the production of tobacco products, Guliyev told Trend. The creation and further development of the association, according to the expert will provide great support in the search for new markets. Tobacco is a very specific commodity, and in conditions of intensified tobacco control in Europe it was practically impossible to plant tobacco everywhere. In addition, the world has almost ceased subsidies in the sphere of tobacco growing. In this regard, I believe that the association will allow producers to organize their problems in a more coordinated manner, he said. The primary goals of the association should be to bring Azerbaijani tobacco to international standards and search for sales markets. Currently, the sale of tobacco as a raw material is encountered with great problems, since there is considerable competition due to the fact that almost half of the territories of Africa and South America are covered by tobacco plantations. In addition, it is necessary to start breeding new seeds to improve the quality of tobacco, Guliyev said. The country harvested 3,700 tons of tobacco in January to September 2017, which is 19.3 percent more than the same period of last year, according to the State Statistics Committee. In this period, the country produced tobacco products worth 27.48 million manat, which is 12.8 percent less than in January to September 2016. Overall, the tobacco seed was sown only in three regions including Sheki, Zagatala and Gakh in 2015, whilst now it is sown in 13 regions. The recent five-year program approved for the development of the tobacco production in Azerbaijan, is going to decrease import of foreign products. Today, domestic production provides only 16-17 percent of consumer demand, and the implementation of the state program will bring this figure up to 70 percent. Meanwhile, recently the prices for cigarettes, with a share of 1.92 percent in countrys total import, will soar in Azerbaijan, since the government is discussing changes in excise tax rates for imported products. Excise tax rate in Azerbaijan is quite low, [4 manats per 1,000 pieces of imported cigarettes and cigarillos and 10 manats per 1,000 pieces of cigars], so the changes envisage increasing excise rates on imported tobacco and alcohol products. -- Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 14:50 (UTC+04:00) By Amina Nazarli Representatives of more than a dozen Belarusian companies discussed cooperation with their Azerbaijani colleagues in trade and economy as part of the joint business forum held on October 17. Within the forum the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) Organizations of Azerbaijan (ASK) and Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BelCCI) signed a memorandum on cooperation. The document was signed by ASK President Mammad Musayev and BelCCI Chairman Vladimir Ulakhovich. Addressing the event, Musayev said that the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Belarus rose by seven percent in recent years and reached $100 million. He highlighted IT, agriculture, pharmaceutics and many others spheres as important for expanding cooperation. Ulakhovich, for his part, said that Belarusian investments in Azerbaijan reached $1 billion in the past 10 years. Cooperation of Belarus and Azerbaijan in the economic sphere has been developing dynamically over the past decade. The main priorities of this cooperation are production cooperation, joint projects in the fields of science and technology, as well as investment cooperation. Currently, 58 companies with Azerbaijani capital operate in Belarus while 70 Belarusian companies operate in Azerbaijan. Belarus exports to Azerbaijan mechanical production, woodworking, tires, foodstuff, medicine, household appliances, dishes and other goods. Azerbaijans exports to Belarus mainly consist of products made of aluminum, products of petrochemical, engineering and agriculture. Azerbaijans first ever Trade House was opened in the Belarusian capital Minsk, on May 26. Trade House in Minsk has signed deals with a number of major Belarusian trade companies to organize sale of Azerbaijani products in the country. As of August, the Trade House has contributed to export of 84 tons of fruit and vegetable products, including 8,000 bottles of olive oil, 2,700 bottles of pomegranate juice and more than 1,200 boxes of tea, to Belarus. Moreover, Azerbaijan and Belarus plan to supply tractors to Turkey. The Minsk Tractor Works (MTW) OJSC signed a new contract with Ganja Automobile Plant in Azerbaijan on September 22 for supply of tractors to Azerbaijan along with an additional protocol on jointly entering the Turkish market. In December 2016, MTW OJSC and Ganja Automobile Plant signed a contract on joint production of machinery in Ganja and delivery of machine and tractor sets to Azerbaijan in 2016-2017. -- Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 12:58 (UTC+04:00) By Rashid Shirinov Violation of the internationally recognized borders of a country is a serious crime. Four Turkish citizens who illegally visited the Armenian-occupied Azerbaijani territories last month, however, are not punished yet. The Turkish government should start legal procedures against its citizens who illegally crossed the state border of Azerbaijan, an Azerbaijani MP Aydin Huseynov told Trend on October 14. He noted that by doing this the Turkish government thereby will warn its citizens wishing to visit Karabakh from committing such unlawful steps. The MP stressed that the participation of the Turkish citizens at the event, which was held in the occupied Azerbaijani territories, is a disrespect shown for both Azerbaijan and Turkey. The visit of Armenian-occupied Azerbaijani territories by a group of Turkish citizens, their participation in the events held there, where they made statements against Azerbaijan, is insulting to Turkey itself, Huseynov said. The MP further noted that Azerbaijan and Turkey are brotherly states, and Turkey will soon transfer these persons to Azerbaijan. Being without documents and not getting any consent from relevant executive authorities, four Turks Ufuk Uras, Ali Bayramoglu, Said Cekinoglu and Erol Katircioglu illegally crossed the internationally recognized borders of Azerbaijan on September 22. The Grave Crimes Investigation Department of Azerbaijans Prosecutor General's Office filed a criminal case under Criminal Codes Article 318.2 (illegally crossing Azerbaijans state borders) against them. The Turkish citizens deliberately traveled from territory of Armenia and illegally arrived in occupied Khankendi and other settlements of the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. They have been declared in the international wanted list. Azerbaijan also sent an appeal to the Turkish law enforcement agencies in order to detain the four citizens. Earlier, Turkish Foreign Ministry said that the illegal visit of the country's citizens to the occupied territories of Azerbaijan does not reflect the official policy of Ankara, and Turkey will continue to support Azerbaijans fair position on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Baku has repeatedly warned foreign officials and diplomats of illegality of visits to its territories that are occupied by Armenia, calling them contradictory to international law. The work is constantly carried out to prevent such illegal actions. --- Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 16 October 2017 17:27 (UTC+04:00) By Rashid Shirinov Recently the Armenian government approved a draft new agreement with Russia which envisages granting of a defense loan in the amount of $100 million. The draft agreement stipulates that the Russian side will provide Yerevan with state export credit for financing the supplies of military products of Russian production. The loan with the term of use from 2018 to 2022 will be issued with a maturity of 15 years at 3 percent per annum. Earlier, in June 2015, the countries signed an agreement granting Russias state export loan of $200 million to Armenia for the acquisition of military goods of Russian production. Within the credit, Armenia acquires Russian multiple rocket launchers Smerch, anti-aircraft missile complexes Igla-S, complexes of electronic intelligence Avtobaza-M, heavy flamethrower systems TOS-1A and other weapons. By pursuing such a policy in the South Caucasus, Russia violates its obligations as a co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, which is mediating in resolving of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict. Given the highly complicated situation in the region, it would be better on the part of Russia to seek for a peaceful solution of the Karabakh problem, to force Armenia to abandon its aggressive policy, and to take steps for effective process to change the current status quo in the conflict zone. Obviously, such a step taken by Moscow indeed threatens security in the region and deals a blow to the principles of friendship, good neighborliness and strategic partnership of Russia and Azerbaijan. Logically, many international experts have already condemned Russias decision to supply Armenia with this loan. American political expert Peter Tase believes that the purchase of advanced weapons by the Armenian government is surely a threat to peace and stability in Europe. Such an attitude will further instigate armed clashes in the line of contact, result in more innocent Azerbaijani civilians being killed by the very same weapons, as well as harm the socio-economic environment in the Caucasus region, , he told Trend on October 14. Nathalie Goulet, French senator and vice-chair of the Senates Foreign Affairs Committee, in turn noted that Russias weapon delivery to Armenia is a breach of trust, and it is also a breach of the Russian position as the OSCE Minsk co-chair. We do not need a new front in South Caucasus. We need to build the trust. We do not need foreign interferences. It is really not the right time, she added. Ariel Cohen, senior fellow at the Institute for Analysis of Global Security, has also commented on the issue. He told Trend that in the long term, concerning the money, Armenia will not be able to compete with Azerbaijan in terms of the quantity and quality of weapons Baku is purchasing. The expert also pointed out that it is time to consider a solution to the conflict and not waste money on weapons. The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict continues for more than two decades and the constant arming of the conflicting sides does not contribute to the peaceful settlement of the conflict but, vice versa, delays it. Given the level and intensity of bilateral relations, Azerbaijan expects from Russia more measured and deliberate steps, which correspond to its status of mediator in the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. --- Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 11:12 (UTC+04:00) By Trend Turning a blind eye to the occupation of the lands of other states poses a threat to peace and security all over the world, said speaker of Azerbaijans Parliament Ogtay Asadov as he addressed the 137th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in St. Petersburg. Unfortunately, Armenia has ignored the decisions and resolutions of authoritative international organizations over the past 25 years and continues to grossly violate international law. This is strange that there is no mechanism forcing the aggressor to comply with the decisions of international organizations. And this leads to the double standard approach towards the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, he noted. Ogtay Asadov pointed out Armenias policy of ethnic cleansing and genocide against the Azerbaijani people, saying one million Azerbaijanis became refugees and internally displaced persons as a result of Armenias aggressive policy. The international community must take resolute measures and all the conflicts, including the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict must be settled on the basis of generally recognized principles and norms of international law, particularly the territorial integrity of states, said the speaker. Ogtay Asadov also hailed Azerbaijans model of tolerance and multiculturalism. He highlighted large-scale international events that Azerbaijan has hosted. The event then featured a discussion of a number of organizational issues. Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko was elected as a new chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, while Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vanuatu were elected as new members of the Union increasing the number of parliaments joining the Alliance to 176. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 11:47 (UTC+04:00) By Trend Armenia once again returned to negotiations table as a result of international pressure, Azerbaijani MP Asim Mollazade told Trend on October 16 commenting on the Geneva meeting of presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia, Ilham Aliyev and Serzh Sargsyan. Azerbaijan wants peace. However, Armenia is not ready for peace and will not take any serious steps. Armenia will break this process at the most important moment, noted the MP. President Aliyev and President Sargsyan held a summit in Geneva, Switzerland on Oct. 16. Foreign ministers, Elmar Mammadyarov and Edward Nalbandian also attended the meeting, which was organized under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs. Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in the summit. A joint statement by the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia and the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group following the Geneva meeting of the two presidents says that the meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere. The presidents agreed to take measures to intensify the negotiation process over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts settlement and to take additional steps to reduce tensions on the line of contact between the two countries troops, reads a joint statement by the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia and the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group following the Geneva meeting. 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 us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 17:55 (UTC+04:00) By Kamila Aliyeva The latest meeting between Azerbaijan and Armenia, which are locked in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh for years, was marked with certain positivity, whilst only time can tell the real significance of the achieved agreements. Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Armenias Serzh Sargsyan held talks under the auspices of the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in Geneva on October 16. The talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia at presidential level that discussed the long-lasting Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in the South Caucasus region followed an earlier meeting in St. Petersburg, Russia in June 2016. The sides agreed to take measures to intensify the negotiation process over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts settlement and to take additional steps to reduce tensions on the line of contact between the two countries troops, a joint statement by the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan and the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group said. The Co-Chairs expressed their satisfaction with these direct talks, which took place after a long interval," the statement reads. The Co-Chairs reaffirmed their readiness to work with the sides on mediating a peacefully negotiated settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. As a next step, the Co-Chairs plan to organize working sessions with the ministers in the near future. Foreign Ministers Edward Nalbandian and Elmar Mammadyarov also attended the meeting, which was organized through mediation of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America). The Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in the summit. Previously, Armenia, as a party to the conflict, has been refusing to sit at a negotiation table with Azerbaijan for a long time. The post Soviet nation that keeps under occupation 20 percent of neighboring Azerbaijan's territory had to resume talks under the international pressures -- the move that was appreciated by the global community and world organizations. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres stated that the UN supports the mediation efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs and called upon the parties, based on the positive momentum of the summit, to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during the talks. However, the practical outcomes of the negotiations, held in constructive atmosphere, are ambiguous, although certain steps were taken to solve the crisis. Despite the fact that all these decisions undoubtedly demonstrate positive signs, the conflict settlement is yet impossible. Moreover, the prospects for this to happen are unclear due to Armenias hidden motives. Armenia attends the talks for show While Azerbaijan strives to reach a peaceful settlement of the protracted conflict, Armenia is yet unwilling to take serious steps in this direction. Peace cannot be achieved by the efforts of only one party. Thus, the scenario is predictable. Even if Armenia takes part in the talks because of the international pressure, at some very important point, the country will break the process and withdraw from negotiations. The future is predicted by the past. Previously, Armenia tried to impede the negotiation process by all means. Last meetings between the Azerbaijani and Armenian presidents were held in Vienna in May and St. Petersburg in June. After that, the talks stalled, although the Azerbaijani side constantly affirmed Baku's readiness to sit at a negotiating table with Yerevan. Armenia was ignoring the calls. Azerbaijan has many reasons for mistrust towards Armenia. Yerevan, for instance, confirmed the correctness of such an attitude by disclosing the details of the talks. Sargsyan breaks promise again Following the talks, Sargsyan met with representatives of the Armenian community at the Armenias Embassy in the Swiss Confederation and revealed the results of the meeting with President Aliyev. We do not have any specific agreements, so to speak, regarding the options for solving the problem, he said adding that both sides are interested in taking measures to further ease tensions, according to Armenian media outlets. He further noted that there cannot be a solution that can somehow disrupt the security of Karabakh. The only solution that works for us is that Karabakh should not be part of Azerbaijan. Never any Armenian leader can accept and implement such a decision, Sargsyan added. It should be noted that the sides were committed not to disclose any additional information on the talks and make statements. Such a behavior demonstrates once again that Armenia has no other aim than undermining negotiations and global efforts to resolve the crisis. Assistant to Azerbaijans president for foreign policy issues Novruz Mammadov said that the deal was that no statements were to be made other than on agreed points. Alas, Serzh Sargsyan is in his character again," he noted while commenting on the statement of the Armenian president following the Geneva meeting. "As usual, he feels privileged to violate the agreement that was reached during the talks. The deal was that no statements were to be made other than on agreed points. Yet he did just the contrary. Again, he made a promise and then failed to honor it. He should have at least been embarrassed, given the presence of the co-chairs and the OSCE representative. Apparently, he does not want to give up his habit of derailing the talks. Nevertheless, he [Sargsyan] is aware and must not forget that the Nagorno-Karabakh is Azerbaijans inalienable part and will remain so, Mammadov noted. Sargsyans plan will be realized neither in his lifetime, nor during the ones of his successors. His dream will never become a reality, no matter how hard he wags his tail to his patrons. Seemingly, he aims to keep the people in Armenia in the state of constant agitation and suffering. Well, let him keep on trying. he added. Armenia captured Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions from Azerbaijan in a war that followed the Soviet breakup in 1991. More than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed and nearly 1 million were displaced as a result of the war. Large-scale hostilities ended with a Russia-brokered ceasefire in 1994 but Armenia continued the occupation in defiance of four UN Security Council resolutions. In 1993, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted four resolutions (No. 822, 853, 874 and 884), condemning the occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan, reaffirming respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity, the inviolability of international borders and the inadmissibility of the use of force for the acquisition of territory. Peace talks mediated by Russia, France and the U.S. have produced no results so far. The illegal presence of the Armenian troops in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan remains the main cause of the escalation in the region and an obstacle to peaceful settlement of the conflict. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 19:14 (UTC+04:00) By Trend Hearings on the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, planned to be held by the US Helsinki Commission on October 18, serve only Armenias interests, Azerbaijani MP Elman Nasirov told Trend on October 17. "We know about Christopher Smith, who heads the Helsinki Commission, he said. He holds a pro-Armenian position. Smith actively participated in the adoption of the Section 907 of the US Freedom Support Act on October 24, 1992." According to the Section 907, the US government was prohibited from assisting the Azerbaijani official organizations, he added. Smith also actively promoted the issue of recognition of so-called Armenian genocide in the international arena and in the parliaments of some countries. Smiths activity is directed against Azerbaijan and Turkey. The main purpose of those hearings on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is primarily to achieve the allocation of more funds for Armenia and the separatist regime created by Armenia, strengthen its positions and maximally keep status quo in the conflict settlement, he said. "These events are not new for Azerbaijan, he said. The Azerbaijani public is aware about the forces behind these events. These forces do not want Azerbaijan's development, social and political stability and security in the country. Their goal is to create chaos in the country but their intentions will never come true. 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 us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 10:12 (UTC+04:00) By Trend President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev sent a congratulatory letter to Sooronbai Jeenbekov, President-elect of the Kyrgyzstan. "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the occasion of your election as President of the Kyrgyz Republic." "I am hopeful that we will make joint efforts to develop and strengthen relations of traditional friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan." "I wish you the best of health, happiness, and success in your activity for prosperity of the brotherly people of Kyrgyzstan." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 16 October 2017 16:09 (UTC+04:00) By Trend International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde said Saturday that there is no change in its policy with regard to funds to Iran based on cues from the US. "We see no reason to change anything in the guidelines that we have received from the (IMF) Board and continue to operate in the same manner," Lagarde said at a news conference in Washington. She was responding to a question on the new policy of US President Donald Trump who has strongly urged the IMF and World Bank not to provide loans or funds to Iran. "We operate with 189 members and we only provide support and enter into program negotiations when a country asks for it," Lagarde said. On Friday, Trump declared his view of the JCPOA, declaring that he would not certify Irans compliance with the deal. The move paves the way for Congress to put new restrictions on Iran. The fact that Trump decertified Irans compliance with the nuclear agreement, aka Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), is not likely to leave a major impact on foreign investment in Iran, a finance market expert has told Trend. The US wont be posing nuclear-related sanctions on Iran, because doing so would render Washington in violation of the deal, Alireza Mohammadi noted. "What was obvious in Trumps Friday speech was that the US does not have anything to say about the nuclear deal, especially since the UN watchdog has approved Irans compliance with JCPOA. However, if any new sanctions are posed, they will most likely not address Irans economic sector." Most of Trumps Friday speech focused on denouncing Irans political influence in its neighborhood. Accusing Iran of sponsoring terrorism and violating the nuclear deal, Trump threatened in particular that Washington will adopt "tough sanctions" on the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC). In the meantime, the US Treasury announced it had put under sanctions a number of companies affiliated with the IRGC. Since the implementation of JCPOA in 2015, Iran has managed to attract $14 billion worth of foreign investment, Mohammad Khazaei, the head of the Organization for Investment, Economic and Technical Assistance of Iran (OIETAI) announced on Saturday. According to a report published by OIETAI in early April, after the implementation of the nuclear accord with world powers, Iran has set its sights on implementing $50 billion worth of foreign finance. Khazaei noted that $12 billion of the attracted finance have been in the form of foreign direct investment while the rest has been allocated in other forms. "According to the Sixth Five-Year Development Plan (2017-22), the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance and the Central Bank of Iran are obligated to attract at least $3 billion in foreign investments each year," he added. World leaders and dignitaries did not hesitate to denounce Trumps new move on Iran. A few hours after the US presidents speech, Hillary Clinton has said Trumps initiative is "very dangerous". "First of all, it basically says Americas word is not good. That even in the absence of evidence that Iran is not complying with the Iran nuclear deal, this president is going to abandon it," she said. "Secondly, it once again gives Iran an advantage. If Iran is complying, which all the evidence is, then all of a sudden, instead of working to isolate Iran, on every issue, we are giving Iran the spotlight, the aggrieved party spotlight. That makes us look foolish and small and plays right into Iranian hands." Also in a statement issued on Friday, Russias Foreign Ministry said Trumps speech "once again underlines the inadmissibility of using aggressive and threatening rhetoric in international relations" and that such language was "doomed to fail." Former British foreign secretary Jack Straw reacted to the speech by saying: "An appalling decision by a US President willfully ignorant of the reality of Iran, and of the fact that Iran has complied with the JCPOA." In the meantime, the Director General of the IAEA, Yukiya Amano, confirmed once again that the Islamic Republic of Iran is honoring all it nuclear-related commitments under the nuclear deal. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres also in a statement called for keeping Iran nuclear deal. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 16 October 2017 17:13 (UTC+04:00) By Kamila Aliyeva The global political arena seems to be tense with a number of ongoing crises in relations between world players such as the U.S., Iran and North Korea. U.S. withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear deal and Washingtons threats to resolve situation in North Korea are escalating the already difficult situation in the world. This was stated by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at a panel discussion entitled "Global policy and its agenda: How to protect the world" held as part of the World Festival of Youth and Students, TASS reported. "Continuous loss of mutual trust, which will be hard to restore, also arouses deep concerns. Unfortunately, these negative tendencies were aggravated by the U.S. decision to withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian nuclear program and by Washingtons threats to solve the Korean Peninsula issues through military action," he noted. Some governments are trying to pursue solely their own geopolitical goals which harm the joint work, according to Lavrov. "[They] want to benefit from crises and conflicts. They are applying methods of state structure exports, imposition over other nations of values that are strange to them and ways of reforming without regard to traditions and national aspects more and more often. Use of military force by skirting the UN Security Council, application of unilateral sanctions and exterritorial use of national law seriously undermined the authority of the national law," he added. As a result we have a dangerous arms race and the risk of uncontrollable spread of mass destruction weapons, Lavrov concluded. On October 13, U.S. President Donald Trump, long been known as the main critic of the landmark deal, declared his view of the JCPOA, saying that he would not certify Irans compliance with the deal. The move paves the way for Congress to put new restrictions on Iran. Moreover, Washington outlined a new hard-line strategy on Iran, according to which the United States will counteract Irans destabilizing influence and call on the global community to unite efforts to exert pressure over the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC, an elite branch of Irans Armed Forces). However, it is believed that Trump would not recommend the Congress to re-impose sanctions in order to reach a compromise with many congressional leaders who stand for keeping the deal at least with some changes. In case sanctions are applied, despite the claims on Irans compliance by the International Atomic Energy Agency verifying, the United States would find itself in breach of its commitments. This means a unilateral withdrawal from the agreement, which will damage the reputation of the U.S. in the eyes of world community. Previously, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani stated that neither Trump nor "ten other Trumps" will be able to nullify the benefits that Tehran receives from the nuclear deal. The Iran nuclear deal was negotiated in July 2015 between Iran, the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and Germany. By ratifying the plan, Iran agreed to scale down its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. At the same time, the U.S. retains sanctions against Iran on the missile program, human rights and on suspicion that Tehran sponsors terrorism. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 10:45 (UTC+04:00) By Trend Mohammad Ali Najafi, the new mayor of Tehran, has strongly criticized the previous management for having failed to serve the city. In his first news conference as a mayor of Tehran, which was staged 50 days after he was elected to the post, Najafi adopted a pose of revolt. We do not enjoy living in Tehran, Najafi said, stressing the metropolis lacks livability, stability, and peace. It is no longer possible to go on with the policies of the past, he said, adding that over the past years the management has gone too far mixing political expediency into mayorship policies, to the loss of much resources of Tehran. He also said that thanks to the removal of sanctions on Iran following the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the atmosphere is now more open to lure foreign investors into projects for the urban development of Tehran. Najafi noted that dense traffic is the top priority of residents in the capital city to be dealt with, adding he has special plans to tackle the traffic issue. He said making it expensive to use cars, adding extra tax to luxury cars, and working with police to reshape passages will be high on his agenda to tackle the traffic crisis. Tehran's busy streets have five times as many taxis as New York. The number of cars in the streets of Tehran is said to be five million, while the city can technically only hold one million cars. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 11:36 (UTC+04:00) By Trend President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev met with the Minister of Investment and Development of Kazakhstan Zhenis Kasymbek. They talked on importance and results of implementation of state programs assigned to the Ministry of Investment and Development, the press service of the Kazakh president said in a message. Kazakh president also drew attention to the Nurly Zhol infrastructure program. Construction and reconstruction of 5,000-km roads throughout the country have been finalized since 2010, said Nazarbayev. Currently, 85 percent of the countrys roads are in good condition. The roads from Western Europe to Western China, from Astana to Temirtau, and from Almaty to Kapchagai were successfully launched. However, talking on industrialization in the country, Nazarbayev noted that the state program on industrialization has not yet ensured the diversification of the country's economy and there is still a lot of work to be done in this area. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 13:28 (UTC+04:00) By Kamila Aliyeva The European Union stressed the need to maintain the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), calling it a key element of the nuclear non-proliferation global architecture. This was stated in the message of the Foreign Ministers of the EU countries on the JCPOA for Iran's nuclear program published on the website of the European Council. The JCPOA, the culmination of 12 years of diplomacy facilitated by the EU, unanimously endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2231, is a key element of the nuclear non-proliferation global architecture and crucial for the security of the region, the statement adopted in Brussels said. Its successful implementation continues to ensure that Iran's nuclear programme remains exclusively peaceful, the statement of the EU Council said, noting that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has already eight times verified Iran's compliance with the nuclear deal. The EU is committed to the continued full and effective implementation of all parts of the JCPOA. The EU underlines that the lifting of nuclear related sanctions has a positive impact on trade and economic relations with Iran including benefits for the Iranian people. It strengthens cooperation and allows for continuous dialogue with Iran, according to the statement. The European Union believes that U.S. President Donald Trump's decision not to certify Iran's compliance is in the context of an internal U.S. process. The EU encourages the U.S. to maintain its commitment to the JCPOA and to consider the implications for the security of the U.S., its partners and the region before taking further steps, the statement said. On October 13, U.S. President Donald Trump, long been known as the main critic of the landmark deal, declared his view of the JCPOA, saying that he would not certify Irans compliance with the deal. The move paves the way for Congress to put new restrictions on Iran. However, it is believed that Trump would not recommend the Congress to re-impose sanctions in order to reach a compromise with many congressional leaders who stand for keeping the deal at least with some changes. In case sanctions are applied, the United States would find itself in breach of its commitments. This means a unilateral withdrawal from the agreement, which will damage the reputation of the U.S. in the eyes of world community. The Iran nuclear deal was negotiated in July 2015 between Iran, the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and Germany. By ratifying the plan, Iran agreed to scale down its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. At the same time, the U.S. retains sanctions against Iran on the missile program, human rights and on suspicion that Tehran sponsors terrorism. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 13:58 (UTC+04:00) By Kamila Aliyeva The volume of revenues in the state budget of Kazakhstan will significantly increase in 2017. Kazakh Finance Minister Bakhyt Sultanov spoke about the expected revenues to the state budget in 2017, Kazinform reported. "The adjusted amount of budget revenues for 2017 will be 9.6 trillion tenge or 18.7 percent of GDP. Non-oil revenues will amount to 4.4 trillion tenge with growth by 77.9 billion tenge to the plan, while oil revenues 5.1 trillion tenge with a decrease by 14.9 billion tenge to the plan," he said at the government meeting. As a result of positive trends in macroeconomics, the revenue side of the budget was overfulfilled by 60.8 billion tenge, according to the minister. At the same time, the total increase in revenues is predicted at 195.3 billion tenge. "Of this volume, 134.5 billion tenge will be allocated for VAT refund on enterprises exporting. Also, due to overfulfilment of the revenue part, it is proposed to reduce the budget deficit by 47.9 billion tenge to 2.9 percent of GDP, which corresponds to the guidelines adopted within the framework of the economic union," Sultanov added. Kazakhstan continues to withstand challenges related to lower oil prices and slower growth in Russia, China, and Europe. The authorities response -- targeted fiscal support, exchange rate adjustment, strengthened domestic liquidity management, and structural reforms focusing on the business climate and public administration -- has helped stabilize conditions. Kazakhstan's proven oil reserves as of early 2016 stood at 30 billion barrels, according to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy. GDP growth slowed to 0.7 percent in 2016, despite continued public investment, budget relaxation and the stabilization of the tenge. This year, the economy remains on course to pick up momentum, helped by higher oil prices, higher oil output from new oil fields and reforms designed to boost foreign direct investment. Kazakhstans real GDP growth is projected to reach 3 percent in 2017-2020, according to the recent S&P Global Ratings report. GDP growth is expected due to higher rates of industrial growth up to 3 percent, manufacturing at the level of 2.6 percent, construction up to 2.6 percent, transport, and storage up to 4 percent. The implementation of government infrastructure development programs and expanding oil production at the Kashagan oil field, one of the worlds largest fields discovered in the past 40 years, are called the main drivers of the nations economic growth. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 18:35 (UTC+04:00) By Kamila Aliyeva Kyrgyzstan sent an official appeal to the Secretariat of the World Trade Organization (WTO) on the situation at the Kyrgyz-Kazakh state border. The basis for the appeal was the violation of the key provisions of the general agreement on tariffs and trade and the agreement on the establishment of the WTO by Kazakhstan, the press service of Kyrgyz government reported. Kyrgyzstan, being a full member of the WTO, like Kazakhstan, will defend its rights within the framework of the organization, the message said. Kazakhstan introduced additional control measures on the Kyrgyz-Kazakh and Russian-Kazakh state borders on October 10, 2017. The measures are taken as part of planned activities, according to Kazakh side. Meanwhile, the average daily number of persons and vehicles from Kyrgyzstan decreased by 2.4 times at major and busiest checkpoints Ak-Zhol and Ak-Tilek after the introduction of additional control measures by the Kazakh side. Since October 10, as many as 3,000 persons and 300 transport units cross the border daily. Previously, more than 8,000 persons and over 600 transport units crossed the border daily. Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev said on October 15 that he intends to initiate an extraordinary meeting of the EAEU council of the heads of state in case situation on the border will not change for the better within two days. In January-August 2017, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member-states grew 31.6 percent to $10.8 million. In the total Kazakhstan-EAEU states trade turnover, Kyrgyzstan accounts for 4.3 percent. --- Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 17 October 2017 10:16 (UTC+04:00) By Amina Nazrli Have you heard of 'Halal tourism' before? 'Halal' is a notion typically used for food but covers all activities of daily life in accordance with the Islamic Law. Today, the Muslim travel market one of the fastest-growing segments in the global travel industry, if to consider that Muslims represent nearly one-fourth of the worlds population. Last year about $155 billion were spent by Muslim travelers, which represent about 13 percent of the total global travel expenses, according to the data of the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). This May, the GMTI predicted that the Muslim travel market will be worth $220 billion by 2020 and $300 billion by 2026, spurred by Muslim-friendly amenities and easy access to travel information. The number of Muslim tourists for today is 108 million and this figure will reach 150 million in 2020, the statistics reveals. Malaysia is considered the number one choice for halal tourism. The country has even earned the status of being a Muslim-friendly destination. Other popular tourist destinations for Muslims include the United Arab Emirate, Indonesia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In total there are 350 halal hotels in the world, and 160 of them are located in Turkey, herewith, prices in such hotels, according to Zamanov, are quite high. But where stands Azerbaijan, with 10-million predominantly Muslim population, on this list? In the 2016 survey of GMTI covering 130 tourist destinations, Azerbaijan, has ranked 20th among the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The countrys incomparable historical and cultural heritage, as well as expertise in halal hospitality, allowed Azerbaijan to enter the list of the top Muslim holidays destinations. In Azerbaijan, where modernity and intellect meet Islam and modern cultures, Muslim visitors can have an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, this year the GMTI put Azerbaijan 24th on development of halal tourism Although recently, tourism in Azerbaijan has become one of the priority areas, but halal tourism is not yet so developed. Expert in tourism Ramin Zamanov in an interview with Sputnik Azerbaijan said that this direction implies the construction of hotels, restaurants, food facilities in accordance with the requirements of Islam. Halal tourism" today exists and develops in countries where Muslims constitute the overwhelming majority of the population, he said. Such recreation centers should have mosques, as well as recreation places for women and men separately. The dishes should also be prepared in conformity with Islamic traditions. That is, people rest in an environment that fully meets the requirements of the religion they practice, he said. The generally accepted standard of halal tourism in the world does not yet exist: There is no halal planes or halal tours, there are just halal hotels and food facilities." However, as the expert pointed out, some entrepreneurs simply use the word "halal" to make money on people who are extremely attached to their religion. He also noted that it is quite difficult to calculate the revenues received from this type of tourism. If to consider the statistics from January to July 2017 Arab tourists hold the first position among tourists visiting Azerbaijan. There is no halal hotels in Azerbaijan, Zamanov said, although there were attempts to create them. As a rule, religious people are engaged in the construction of such hotels. In general, there is no great demand for halal tourism, and it is only possible to invest in it in Azerbaijan on an individual basis. -- Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz The American Gastroenterological Association and Alliance of Specialty Medicine urged legislators to increase flexibility around the Merit-based Incentive Payment System. The AGA took issue with four particular aspects of MIPS. Here's what you should know: 1. Cost category weight AGA wants Congress to allow HHS to set the cost category of MIPS at a rate lower than the 30 percent required by law in 2019. CMS set the rate at 0 percent in 2017 and has proposed to keep the rate at 0 percent in 2018. The AGA is worried CMS will not have the proper amount of time to calculate cost measures before the steep increase in 2019. 2. Performance threshold Similar to the aforementioned cost category weight argument, AGA wants Congress to allow HHS to set the MIPS performance threshold at a level that'll reflect physician readiness instead of what is required under law. 3. Application of MIPS to Part B drugs The AGA wants MIPS payment adjustments to only apply to physician services and not physician-administered drugs. 4. Definition of a small practice The AGA is seeking clarity over the definition of a small practice. They would like Congress to define a small practice as one that includes MIPS-eligible physicians only and not other health professionals. The AGA and Alliance of Specialty Medicine sent a letter to Congress lobbying for increased flexibility. The AGA is meeting with several legislators to advocate for its proposals. Fairfax, Va.-based George Mason University found repealing North Carolina's certificate-of-need law would generate savings and boost quality for residents. Here are nine key findings: 1. The study found the CON law increases healthcare and physician spending. 2. With the CON law, there are 85 ASCs. This number could increase to 99 ASCS without the CON law in North Carolina. 3. There are currently 132 hospitals in the state; This number could total 187 hospitals by stripping the CON legislation. 4. Throughout North Carolina, there are 56 rural hospitals. The study researchers say eliminating the law would increase this number to 80 rural hospitals. 5. Similarly, the number of rural ASCs would increase from 11 to 13 if officials eliminated the CON law in the state. 6. Without the CON law, researchers found there would be a 5.3 percent decrease in post-surgery complications. 7. Patient satisfaction would also increase, according to the researchers. The study found there would be a 4.5 percent increase in patients rating their hospital at least a nine out of 10 without the CON law. 8. Without the law, the number of CT cans would increase 3.6 percent. 9. MRI scans would rally 5.5 percent if legislators repealed the CON rule. Hammes Co., a healthcare facility developer, named Chris Stanley vice president of business development, according to McKnight's Senior Living. Here are four key notes: 1. Mr. Stanley has 19-plus years experience in developing and acquiring ASCs. 2. Throughout his career, Mr. Stanley has established long-term working relationships with various hospital systems' capital and C-site executives and physician groups. 3. In his role at Hammes, Mr. Stanley will oversee healthcare facilities and strategic capital planning services. 4. He is also charged with creating new business opportunities and individualized solutions meeting Florida and Georgia customer needs. A former employee of a Louisiana hospital may have accessed thousands of patient records without authorization for nearly 15 years, a spokesperson from Bogalusa, La.-based Our Lady of the Angels Hospital told Becker's Hospital Review. Here are five things to know about the incident. 1. Our Lady of the Angels Hospital officials learned a former employee had inappropriately accessed 1,140 patient records from the date Our Lady of the Angels acquired the hospital March 17, 2014, until July 25, 2017, according to a hospital statement. 2. Our Lady of the Angels Hospital officials informed LSU Health Care Services Division, a division of Baton Rouge-based Louisiana State University, about the incident Aug. 11, according to a separate LSU Health statement. LSU Health Care Services Division had operated and managed the hospital, formerly known as Bogalusa Medical Center, until March 17, 2014. 3. LSU Health Care Services Division began an investigation into the employee's potential inappropriate access Aug. 24. Officials determined the former employee may have improperly accessed patient records since Feb. 19, 2003. LSU Health Care Services Division estimated 1,200 individuals were affected in the incident, according to HHS' Office for Civil Rights breach portal. 4. The former employee claimed their motivation to access patient records without authorization was a result of their own "curiosity," according to the LSU Health statement. Our Lady of the Angels Hospital did not find any evidence the former employee misused or shared any personal information from the patient records. 5. Our Lady of the Angels Hospital officials terminated the employee upon discovering the incident. The hospital will also offer its affected patients 12 months of free credit monitoring services and plans to review its policies and audit processes to prevent similar privacy and security incidents from occurring in the future. The U.K.'s National Health Service discovered an additional 162,000 undelivered patient notes, building on a warehouse blunder initially reported in February, according to The Register. The incident revolves around an error by NHS Shared Business Services, a joint venture between the U.K. Department of Health and IT consulting company Sopra Steria, which was contracted to redirect select NHS mail in need of re-routing. A backlog consisting of at least 709,000 patient notes piled up in a NHS SBS warehouse between 2011 and 2016, including cancer test results and child protection notes. The 709,000 patient notes comprised the biggest loss of patient documents at NHS to date, according to The Register. However, a team tasked with examining the incident uncovered an additional 162,000 undelivered documents at the warehouse and at local offices across the country during the course of its ongoing investigation. NHS England CEO Simon Stevens said Oct. 16 NHS expects to deliver patient records to the appropriate general practitioners by the end of December for initial assessment. The goal is to complete the entire project by March 2018. North Korea was behind the WannaCry ransomware attacks, which infected more than 300,000 devices in more than 150 countries in May, claimed Brad Smith, the president of Microsoft, according to The Telegraph. In June, the National Security Agency linked the North Korean government to the attacks, claiming it had "moderate confidence" that the country's spy agency, Reconnaissance General Bureau, was responsible for two versions of WannaCry. Now, Mr. Smith told The Telegraph he had "great confidence" Pyongyang was behind the attack and the RGB stole cyber weapons from the NSA to carry it out. "I think at this point that all observers in the know have concluded that WannaCry was caused by North Korea using cyber tools or weapons that were stolen from the National Security Agency in the United States," he told The Telegraph. Mr. Smith added that cyberattacks by nation-states have become more frequent and he called on governments to come together to face the threat. "I think over last six months we've seen threats come to life, unfortunately, in new and more serious way. The problem has become bigger," he said, according to The Telegraph. "We need governments to come together as they did in Geneva in 1949 and adopt a new Digital Geneva Convention that makes clear that these cyber-attacks against civilians, especially in times of peace, are off-limits and a violation of international law." More articles on cybersecurity: Missouri clinic pays ransom, notifies 1.6k patients of cyberattack 3 tips for IT leaders to teach effective cybersecurity 13 receive 2017 Cybersecurity Innovation and Leadership Award Chinese hospitals and healthcare companies represent a great investment opportunity, as their profitability is likely to improve due to several factors, including inevitable consolidation and healthcare reform, said Sarah Ketterer, CEO and fund manager at Causeway Capital Management, in a recent Bloomberg article. In the article, titled "Where to Invest $10,000 right now," Ms. Ketterer said the profitability growth will be fueled by the demand for healthcare in China. "With rising disposable income per capita, China's demand for healthcare, especially top-tier hospital services, exceeds supply," said Ms. Ketterer. To address this issue, the government plans to welcome private capital into the industry, which will likely lead to the creation of private hospitals that offer higher quality care. This change, among other reforms, will alter China's healthcare environment. When combined with "inevitable consolidation" within China's healthcare sector, these reforms will improve efficiency and lead to higher profitability in areas such as hospital management, drug and medical equipment distribution, private supplemental health insurance, and new drug discovery and launch, according to Ms. Ketterer. More articles on healthcare finance: Tenet shutters 4 regional management offices to cut costs Financial updates from Geisinger, UPMC & 4 other systems Michael Jordan donates $7M to Novant Health A subset of employees at Outcome Health, a Chicago-based tech and advertising startup, allegedly manipulated pricing and sales information to mislead pharmaceutical advertisers, according to The Wall Street Journal. For its investigation, The Wall Street Journal reviewed internal documents and interviewed several advertisers and former Outcome Health employees. The Wall Street Journal found no evidence top executives were involved in the alleged misconduct. Here are six things to know about the controversy. 1. Outcome Health, which reported a $5.5 billion valuation in May, installs flat screens and tablets in physicians' offices at no cost. These screens display patient-targeted videos including educational content and pharmaceutical advertisements. 2. Outcome Health charges pharmaceutical companies to run advertisements on its flat screens and tablets. However, from 2014 to 2016, employees at the company reportedly charged advertisers for more screens than it had installed, people familiar with the matter told The Wall Street Journal. Other accusations against the startup included employees allegedly manipulating performance surveys and third-party analyses. 3. Another alleged issue involved altering documents meant to verify whether an advertisement ran on an appropriate physician's screen. Some pharmaceutical companies requested Outcome Health deliver screenshots of an advertisement as proof it ran the content in the correct office. However, some employees would allegedly edit information, such as the timestamp, to inappropriately verify the document. 4. Outcome Health has given "tens of millions of dollars in free advertising to customers" after not meeting contractual terms, people familiar with the matter told The Wall Street Journal. In one instance, Johnson & Johnson allegedly complained after field representatives noticed the company was being charged to run ads in offices that did not have screens. In return, Outcome Health reportedly offered to decrease the advertiser's costs. 5. Outcome Health officials told The Wall Street Journal an independent counsel will review the allegations. Lanny Davis, a lawyer and spokesman hired by Outcome Health, told The Wall Street Journal the company put three employees on paid leave during the review. "The company strongly denies the practice of misreporting of campaign information," he said. "The company's policy is to accurately report information to every customer on every program." 6. In an online statement emailed to Becker's Hospital Review, Outcome Health Founder and CEO Rishi Shah wrote, "If at any point we learn that a customer was misled in any way, we will share that promptly with the customer and remedy the situation immediately." He continued, "We appreciate the hard work of our dedicated employees, and want to reiterate that adherence to our policies is not optional anyone who violates them will be held accountable." Mercy Health-Cincinnati appointed Kenneth James its permanent East Market president and CEO. Here are five notes: 1. Mr. James served as interim leader of the East Market since June. 2. He joined Mercy Health in December, serving as president of Mercy Health-Clermont Hospital in Batavia, Ohio. 3. He previously served as CEO of Harton Hospital in Tullahoma, Tenn. 4. He holds a master's degree in industrial/organization management from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. 5. Mercy Health-Cincinnati's East Market includes Mercy Health-Clermont Hospital and Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital in Cincinnati as well as ambulatory medical centers and physician practices. Missoula-based Western Montana Mental Health Center CEO Jodi Daly resigned to take on a new job opportunity, according to a Montana Standard report. Ms. Daly will take on the CEO role at Comprehensive Healthcare in Yakima, Wash. She worked at Western Montana Mental Health for 13 years, spending the last three as CEO. She previously served as director of children's services and executive director for the center's Butte, Mont., location. During her CEO tenure at Western Montana Mental Health, Ms. Daly expanded services to include crisis stabilization centers and additional housing for women and children. Western Montana Mental Health Center will immediately begin the search for her replacement. Adventist Health Simi Valley (Calif.), formerly Simi Valley Hospital, laid off 31 employees, according to a Ventura County Star report. Affected employees include 12 registered nurses as well as nonclinical positions, a hospital spokesperson told the publication via a statement. "Adventist Health is in a strong financial position relative to the industry," the spokesperson said. "However, for the past year, we have seen a decrease in inpatient utilization versus planned growth. Instead, we have seen a growth in our outpatient services." She added, "We are taking these steps to ensure that we are stronger for the long term and to help us rebuild our infrastructure to deliver on what our communities need: access to affordable, high-quality care both inside and outside hospital walls." Hospital CEO Jennifer Swenson told the Ventura County Star there is a hiring freeze is not in place, and some affected employees will move to other departments or possibly other system locations. The hospital is part of Roseville, Calif.-based Adventist Health and announced plans to rebrand in April. More articles on leadership and management: Mayo Clinic and Albert Lea agree to structured dialogue Healthcare organizations call on Congress to continue funding CSRs Independent hospital marketing: Why the budget battle is the wrong approach In a press release today, Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) announced its Medtronic Care Management Services (MCMS) business and American Well entered into a first-of-its-kind strategic partnership to enable a more complete telehealth solution focused on the unique needs of the complex, chronic, co-morbid patient population. Under the terms of the agreement, the businesses will work together to enable patient access to American Well's telemedicine services on MCMS' video-enabled platforms, and to allow bi-directional data flow between the two parties. The telehealth solution will provide information from MCMS' remote patient monitoring to clinicians performing consultations using American Well's telemedicine capabilities, and enable information from these telemedicine visits to be included in MCMS' clinical management software. The partnership is designed to provide greater patient access to their care team, while improving clinician access to the critical information needed when making care decisions - especially as they evaluate opportunities for early intervention. "We are thrilled to partner with American Well to provide an innovative, patient-centric solution to our customers," said Sheri Dodd, vice president and general manager, Medtronic Care Management Services. "Providing care to complex, chronic, co-morbid populations requires access to, and coordination between, multiple clinical specialties. Our work together will help clinicians gain a more complete view of a patient's health status when making care decisions, and will help ensure access to information from telemedicine interactions is available to the broader care team while the patient remains in their own home." To read the full press release, click here. News from our Partners President Donald Trump's decision to end cost-sharing reduction subsidies which help insurers subsidize the cost of coverage for low-income Americans on the exchanges most affects states Trump won last year, according to an Associated Press analysis. Overall, the analysis found nearly 70 percent of the subsidy beneficiaries live in pro-Trump states, according to the Associated Press, which examined 2017 enrollment data from CMS. The Associated Press reports the analysis also showed an estimated 4 million subsidy beneficiaries lived in 30 pro-Trump states, and that Massachusetts was the only state out of the 10 states with the highest percentage of subsidy beneficiaries that did not support Trump in the November 2016 election. Read more about the analysis here. New Hyde Park, N.Y.-based Northwell Health will lay off 107 employees in January when it shuts down its Medicaid long-term care plan, North Shore-LIJ Health Plan. In a statement to Becker's Hospital Review, Northwell said it is shutting down the health plan, which currently covers about 6,000 members across six counties, to focus on its "core business." The system will help those enrolled in the long-term care plan transition to other plans during the wind-down process. According to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notice filed Oct. 12, Northwell will lay off 107 employees when it shuts down the health plan. The employees will be laid off around Jan. 5, 2018. Northwell's insurance unit has suffered significant financial losses. The system ended the first quarter of fiscal year 2017 with an operating loss of $36.2 million, compared to an operating gain of $29.4 million in the same quarter of fiscal year 2016. The loss was largely attributable to a $22.7 million loss by its health insurance company CareConnect and a $3.8 million loss by North Shore-LIJ Health Plan. In August, Northwell announced it will wind down CareConnect over the next year. Regarding the layoffs, Scott Becker, publisher of Becker's Hospital Review, said "Unfortunately, layoffs are again becoming commonplace. All layoffs are very difficult. When a system as large as Northwell tries to limit their layoffs to this amount, it's a sign of trying to be very careful with the human cost associated with layoffs. It's a very well led, compassionate system." More articles on leadership and management: Mayo Clinic and Albert Lea agree to structured dialogue Healthcare organizations call on Congress to continue funding CSRs Independent hospital marketing: Why the budget battle is the wrong approach Deployment of the USNS Comfort hospital ship was regarded as an essential part of Hurricane Maria relief efforts in Puerto Rico, but only 33 of its 250 beds are being utilized, according to CNN. Thousands of Puerto Ricans have been stranded in understaffed hospitals and makeshift clinics on the island, many of which lack basic medical supplies and electricity. Puerto Rico's Department of Health has the authority to decide which patients can be transferred to the USNS Comfort but has failed to make many referrals. Richard Rossello, governor of Puerto Rico, blames the lack of patients aboard the ship on the island's diminished communications infrastructure. "The disconnect or the apparent disconnect was in the communications flow," Mr. Rossello said. "I asked for a complete revision of that so that we can now start sending more patients over there." Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin, MD, has been interviewed by the White House for the HHS secretary post, according to a Wall Street Journal report from Oct. 13. Last week, the Trump administration appointed Eric Hargan, a former Chicago lawyer, as acting HHS secretary. Mr. Hargan is filling in for former HHS Secretary Tom Price, MD, who resigned late September amid a scandal in which he used taxpayer dollars to fund private and government related travel. Dr. Shulkin, who has been working to transition the VA's EHR from its homegrown, legacy VistA system to Cerner, expressed some interest in the move. "I'm very happy at VA. But I serve at the president's will, and whatever the president needs me for, I would do. But I'm very happy where I am," he told Politico Morning eHealth at an American Telemedicine Association event earlier this month. Pittsfield, Mass.-based Berkshire Medical Center and the union representing nearly 800 of its nurses have had various conflicts over the past year. Below is a timeline of events between BMC and the Massachusetts Nurses Association, including the most recent regarding an unfair labor practice charge. September 2016: The two parties begin contract negotiations. March 2017: BMC announces a federal mediator is being brought in after 19 failed negotiation sessions. May 2017: BMC nurses petition Berkshire Medical Center for a "fair agreement" amid ongoing labor talks. May 2017: BMC nurses overwhelmingly vote down the "best and final" contract offer from the hospital. Wages and staffing are among the key sticking points. July 2017: BMC nurses accuse the hospital of using threats to prevent a strike. Specifically, the nurses allege in a complaint filed with the National Labor Relations Board that the hospital interfered with contract negotiations when it sent an internal letter to workers. The hospital denied the allegations. July 2017: BMC nurses give their bargaining committee approval to call a strike if they so choose. The strike authorization came after nurses went on strike at Greenfield, Mass.-based Baystate Franklin Medical Center in June and approximately 1,200 nurses at Boston-based Tufts Medical Center went on strike in July. August 2017: Staffing continues to be a key sticking point in negotiations, along with health insurance. At the time, the union said the hospital rejected nurses' revised staffing proposals from July. Arthur Milano, vice president of human resources at BMC's parent company, Pittsfield-based Berkshire Health Systems, tells The Berkshire Eagle the hospital believes it has made a satisfactory proposal to the union addressing nurses' staffing concerns. August 2017: BMC nurses seek meetings with board members of Berkshire Health Systems amid their contract negotiations with BMC. September 2017: BMC files an unfair labor practice charge against the MNA, accusing the union of "surface bargaining," as opposed to negotiating in good faith. September 2017: BMC nurses set strike date of Oct. 3. "BMC nurses have been bargaining in good faith for a year, seeking to ensure that their patients are able to receive the safest and most effective nursing care possible. The hospital has refused to negotiate over concrete improvements to patient care and RN staffing. BMC management has also refused to provide information necessary for nurses to negotiate quality, affordable health insurance," the MNA says in a statement Sept. 22. David Phelps, president and CEO of Berkshire Health Systems and BMC, and Diane Kelly, RN, COO of BMC, say in a statement to Becker's Hospital Review they believe the MNA misrepresented BMC's handling of the negotiations and they are disappointed by the nurses' plan to strike. September 2017: BMC files a legal request with a federal court to avert the planned Oct. 3 strike. The request is ultimately denied, and the strike begins as planned. October 2017: BMC nurses plan rallies after the strike plan "for safe patient care and a fair contract." October 2017: The MNA retracts a news release that incorrectly states BMC withdrew an unfair labor practice charge against nurses. In actuality, the MNA withdrew its unfair labor practice charge against the hospital regarding BMC's absentee policy. More articles on human capital and risk: UPHS-Marquette nurses return to work following 'lock out' allegations 10 cities that added the most hospital jobs in 10 years 20 hospitals hiring nurses The Georgia Supreme Court upheld the state's "certificate of need" law and said a surgical center could not expand without state approval when it issued an opinion Monday, according to Politically Georgia. Hugo D. Ribot Jr., MD, and Malcolm Barfield, MD, own the Georgia Advanced Surgery Center for Women in Cartersville, Ga., and argued they did not need state approval to add a second operating room to their outpatient center. Their lawyers said the certificate of need law diminished competition among providers and drove up the cost of care, but Presiding Justice Harold D. Melton disagreed. He wrote the regulation is far from monopolizing. The law "does not authorize monopolistic 'contracts' relating to providers of new institutional health services. It only requires that all such providers obtain a certificate of need before adding new services," Justice Melton wrote. Senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, sent a letter to President Donald Trump Oct. 12, urging him to follow through on comments he made in August about declarating the nation's opioid crisis a national emergency. On Aug. 10, more than a week after the president's opioid commission recommended official declaration of national emergency, President Trump said the opioid crisis was a national emergency and his administration was currently working on documents for official declaration. To date, the administration has not taken such action. "We applaud your stated commitment to addressing opioid addiction and agree with you that the crisis is a 'serious problem' deserving of increased federal resources," wrote the senators in the letter. "However, we are extremely concerned that 63 days after your statement, you have yet to take the necessary steps to declare a national emergency on opioids, nor have you made any proposals to significantly increase funding to combat the epidemic." Alaska and Massachusetts are among numerous states whose governors made official declarations of emergency or disaster to bolster statewide efforts to mitigate opioid overdoses. "Massachusetts and Alaska have been on the forefront of the opioid crisis that is sweeping our nation, and we are proud to represent states that have tackled the epidemic head on," wrote the Senators. "We urge you to build upon the work of our states and to implement the recommendations of your Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis without delay." More articles on opioids: Congress weakened DEA's power to investigate drug distributors at height of opioid epidemic: 7 things to know 10 actions the government should take to address the opioid crisis, according to 2 experts 10 recent opioid epidemic lawsuits Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri, the top-ranking Democrat on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced legislation Monday to repeal 2016 legislation that significantly limited the Drug Enforcement Administration's ability to crack down on opioid distributors suspected of wrongdoing. The move from Ms. McCaskill follows the Oct. 15 publication of an investigative report conducted by The Washington Post and "60 Minutes." The report details circumstances behind the passage of the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act, which effectively eliminated DEA's ability to freeze suspicious shipments of opioids from drug distributors. "Media reports indicate that this law has significantly affected the government's ability to crack down on opioid distributors that are failing to meet their obligations and endangering our communities," said Ms. McCaskill. "I'll be introducing legislation that repeals this law and continue my work investigating the role pharmaceutical distributors played in fueling this public health crisis." The Democratic Senator launched a formal investigation into drug companies' possible role in facilitating opioid overprescribing in March. More articles on opioids: Murkowski-Warren letter urges Trump to move on opioid crisis emergency declaration Congress weakened DEA's power to investigate drug distributors at height of opioid epidemic: 7 things to know 10 recent opioid epidemic lawsuits [October 17, 2017] Fusemachines Inc. Appoints Former IBM Watson Team Lead (Multimodal Group) as the Director of Artificial Intelligence Research NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Fusemachines Inc. announced on Friday that it has appointed Dr. Steven J. Rennie as the Director of Artificial Intelligence Research. A former team lead for IBM Watson (Multimodal Group) and a veteran in speech recognition, Rennie's appointment furthers Fusemachines' mission of Democratizing AI to put Artificial Intelligence in everyone's hands through education, software and services. "With over 20 years of rich experience in research and development, Steve is the perfect candidate to lead our future initiatives," said Sameer Maskey, the CEO of Fusemachines. "As one of the leading experts in robust automatic speech recognition (ASR), multi-talker ASR, LVCSR and image captioning, Steve will help Fusemachines to stay on the forefront of technological innovation," said Maskey. "As one of the leading experts in robust automatic speech recognition (ASR), multi-talker ASR, LVCSR and image captioning, Steve will help Fusemachines to stay on the forefront of technological innovation." The transformative potential of AI for business has led to a major transformative potential of AI for business has led to a major talent shortage of engineers with the requisite knowledge and experience in Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Fusemachines provides AI-as-a-Service to businesses who value the importance and potential of AI but sruggle to find skilled AI engineers. Rennie's hiring will help the company build on its position as one of the most prominent AI services providers. Fusemachines provides AI-as-a-Service to businesses who value the importance and potential of AI, but struggle to find skilled AI engineers. Rennie's hiring will help the company build on its position as one of the most prominent AI services providers. "My goal is very simple - to establish Fusemachines as a world-class research facility, and to leverage the expertise within Fusemachines as it fulfills its destiny and becomes a leader in providing AI-based solutions," stated Rennie. "Fusemachines as a world-class research facility, and to leverage the expertise within Fusemachines as it fulfills its destiny and becomes a leader in providing AI-based solutions." Rennie will also be a valuable resource for the company's flagship AI Fellowship program, which provides selected scholars from underserved communities with mentorship and resources to develop advanced skills in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The program culminates in a Micromasters certificate from Columbia University. After successfully launching fellowships in Nepal and the Dominican Republic, Fusemachines is now laying the groundwork for a program in New York City.underserved communities with mentorship and resources to develop advanced skills in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The program culminates in a Micromasters certificate from Columbia University. After successfully launching fellowships in Nepal and the Dominican Republic, Fusemachines is now laying the groundwork for a program in New York City. Rennie joins Fusemachines from IBM, where he was the Team Lead for Watson Multimodal Group. He earned his PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Toronto with a specialization in speech recognition. He frequently speaks at industry conferences such as Neural Information Processing Systems (NIPS) and IEEE International Conference on Acoustics, Speech and Signal Processing (ICASSP). Press Inquiries: Preeti Adhikary Phone: 800-506-3873 Email: [email protected] Related Links company website View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fusemachines-inc-appoints-former-ibm-watson-team-lead-multimodal-group-as-the-director-of-artificial-intelligence-research-300536981.html SOURCE Fusemachines Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Inefficient discharge planning and patient flow is a widespread issue for many hospitals. "I consistently see patient throughput issues at hospitals of all types and sizes across the country, from large academic medical centers to small community hospitals," said Barbara Bryan, BSN, managing director at Prism Healthcare Partners, a Chicago-based consulting firm. Ms. Bryan joined fellow managing director Bonnie Barndt-Maglio, RN, PhD, to share with Becker's Hospital Review. Common misconceptions of patient throughput "The No. 1 misconception about patient throughput is that it can be easily solved with just a few changes led by the nurses or case managers," said Dr. Barndt-Maglio. In reality, patient throughput initiatives usually take six months to a year to institute a hospital-wide change. The initiatives require dedicated interdisciplinary participation and consistent communication among all stakeholders not just nursing and case manager staff. Another common misconception is that throughput begins in the emergency department. "We argue the ED is the victim of poor patient throughput, rather than the source, since they are dependent on beds available in inpatient areas," said Dr. Barndt-Maglio. She emphasized that efficient patient throughput starts with effective discharge processes, which allow the hospital to turn over beds as quickly as possible. Critical factors for a successful throughput improvement project The first step to launching an effective patient throughput initiative is establishing a sound project infrastructure, according to Ms. Bryan. Hospital leaders should identify an executive sponsor who has the authority to drive an organization-wide effort. The initiative should also contain committees and work groups with interdisciplinary membership and front-line representation. "Physicians can make or break a successful throughput project, so it's very important to involve them in each of the work groups from the very beginning," said Ms. Bryan. The executive sponsor and work groups should establish goals, expectations and project ground rules, along with a project timeline containing key milestones for achieving those goals. Ms. Bryan said six months to 12 months is an ideal timeline, depending on the size of the hospital and the complexity of the throughput problem. The initiative should also contain a solid communication plan allowing for regular and open communication via many methods, including newsletters, town hall meetings and team huddles on inpatient units, according to Dr. Barndt-Maglio. "You really cannot over-communicate during these initiatives," she said. After developing a sound project structure, leaders should thoroughly examine key patient throughput processes. "You need to understand your current state, so you can determine your future state," said Ms. Bryan. Leaders should also take advantage of existing tools and technology to enhance patient flow processes during the initiative and establish meaningful performance metrics and methods of measurement to gauge progress. The benefits of improved patient throughput A successful patient throughput initiative offers numerous clinical benefits for a hospital, including improved capacity, patient satisfaction, length of stay and ED wait times. A hospital can also achieve significant cost savings through improved throughput. Ms. Bryan demonstrated the potential savings opportunities by highlighting data from a two-hospital system in the Northeast. The health system frequently diverted patients from its EDs and had a length of stay well above the national average. After working with Prism to institute a comprehensive patient throughput strategy, the hospital reduced excess days by nearly 50 percent and achieved $1.5 million in cost savings. "Of course we know reducing every single excess day is unrealistic," said Ms. Bryan. "With most hospitals, we see improvement range from 20 percent up to 50 percent." Decreasing the amount of days the patient stays in the hospital not only lowers costs through decreased resource use, but also allows for additional capacity, which can generate more revenue. "There is a great revenue opportunity for hospitals that have the volume to fill available beds," said Dr. Barndt-Maglio. "Those additional beds may relieve constricted services or even develop new service offerings." For example, one hospital she worked with used extra beds to expand the capacity of a cardiac service line, which was part of the hospital's strategic plan for growth. Taking on a patient throughput project can be challenging and time-consuming. But by involving key stakeholders and implementing the critical success factors, a focused patient throughput initiative can significantly benefit organizations with improvements in quality, capacity, and cost. To view the webinar recording, click here. To view the webinar slides, click here. Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente reopened two medical office buildings in Santa Rosa, Calif., and Rohnert Park, Calif., following wildfires that broke out across Northern California last week. However, the area hospital Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa Medical Center remains closed, The Press Democrat reports. Officials reopened the office buildings at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday after wildfires engulfed nearby areas. The medical office building in Santa Rosa will offer urgent walk-in care, family medicine and pediatric services, with additional services becoming available throughout the week. The Rohnert Park medical office building will offer urgent care and walk-in appointments. The main pharmacies at both locations will also reopen Tuesday. More than 100 Kaiser employees, including physicians and nurses, lost their homes to the flames, according to the report. Kaiser officials assisted staff by transferring them to the health system's other Northern California locations in Rohnert Park and San Rafael, Calif., so they could focus on providing care to patients rather than on what they lost. "It feels good to be back in my regular building," Kelly Bastoni, MD, a family medicine physician who works in the Santa Rosa office building, told The Press Democrat. "There's something about [the facility] having been so close to the fire but having survived. It feels like a resilient place." Kaiser officials have not slated a date to reopen the hospital. The nearby Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital revealed plans to reopen at 7 a.m. Tuesday. The facility will offer full inpatient and emergency care, with elective procedures to resume "at a later date," according to the report. Summa St. Thomas Hospital in Akron, Ohio, remains closed after a fire broke out in the facility's basement Friday morning. The fire forced the hospital to evacuate patients and staff. About 100 patients were transferred to other local hospitals, including other Summa facilities and Western Reserve Hospital in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, according to cleveland.com. A firm reopening date for Summa St. Thomas Hospital has not been set, Mike Bernstein, Summa's director of corporate communications, told cleveland.com. He said patients who would normally be treated at St. Thomas Hospital can go to Summa's other local hospitals for care. He said certain workers have been temporarily transferred to admitting locations to assist. "We're fortunate to have the capacity across the system for a situation like this," Mr. Bernstein told cleveland.com. More articles on patient flow: Florida Hospital Oceanside remains closed 1 month after hurricane Ohio hospital forced to evacuate patients, staff after fire breaks out Community hospitals in crisis mode after wildfires shut down Kaiser, Sutter hospitals Sutter Santa Rosa (Calif.) Regional Hospital reopened Tuesday, just eight days after the facility was shut down due to encroaching wildfires. The hospital was forced to evacuate Oct. 9. Seventy-seven patients were transferred from Sutter Santa Rosa to several other area hospitals. To reopen, Sutter Santa Rosa had to undergo a thorough cleaning and pass inspections by the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development as well as the California Department of Public Health. "To prepare the hospital for re-opening wasn't an easy task," said Jeff Gerard, president of Sutter Health Bay Area. "Reopening the hospital only eight days after having to evacuate demonstrates the strength of our integrated network." The hospital resumed inpatient and emergency care Tuesday and will begin offering elective procedures at a later date. Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa (Calif.) Medical Center, which was also forced to close Oct. 9 due to the wildfires, remains closed. More articles on patient flow: Ohio hospital closed indefinitely after fire Florida Hospital Oceanside remains closed 1 month after hurricane Community hospitals in crisis mode after wildfires shut down Kaiser, Sutter hospitals California's Democratic Governor Jerry Brown on Oct. 13 declared a state of emergency regarding an ongoing hepatitis A outbreak primarily affecting the homeless and illicit drug user populations in the counties of San Diego, Santa Cruz and Los Angeles. The outbreak began in late 2016 in San Diego County and has since resulted in 581 infections and 18 deaths, according to the Los Angeles Times. The emergency proclamation allows officials with the California Department of Public Health to purchase additional vaccines directly from manufacturers to help curb the outbreak. "Local public health officials are working hard to offer vaccines to people who are at the most risk of infection, including homeless Californians," said Karen Smith, MD, the director of the state health department. "Today's order will help ensure communities can continue to deliver the vaccines where they are needed most." As of Oct. 13, health officials tallied 490 hepatitis A cases in San Diego County, 71 cases in Santa Cruz County, 13 cases in Los Angeles County and seven cases in other parts of the state, according to the LA Times. More articles on infection control: Top 10 infection control stories, Oct. 9-13 Syracuse mumps outbreak could top 18 cases 2 Tennessee residents infected with rare virus linked to pet rats Seattle-based Swedish Health has frequently double-booked spine surgeries at its Cherry Hill campus, The Seattle Times reports. Here are five insights: 1. The Seattle Times reporters obtained internal surgery data that revealed some Swedish brain and spine surgeons "routinely ran multiple operating rooms at the same time while keeping patients in the dark about the practice." The reporters also came to this conclusion based on patient and medical staff interviews. 2. From 2014 to 2016, four Swedish Neuroscience Institute surgeons oversaw multiple ORs concurrently for more than half of their cases. The surgeons routinely performing concurrent surgeries in this time frame included Rod Oskouian, MD; Johnny Delashaw, MD; Jens Chapman, MD; and David Newell, MD. 3. Guy Hudson, MD, Swedish's interim CEO, labeled these surgeries as "overlapping," indicating a second surgery simply begins with the close of the previous one. The Seattle Times reports Dr. Hudson previously said surgeons are not allowed to schedule cases with the same start time. Despite this claim, The Seattle Times found more than 200 times when surgeons started two cases at the same time or within a five-minute lapse between 2014 and 2016. The reporters discovered these cases often overlapped for more than one hour. 4. Swedish is not alone in allowing overlapping surgeries, as the topic has come under fire in recent years. Dr. Hudson pointed to metrics that the Cherry Hill facility demonstrated better overall outcomes compared to the industry benchmark. He noted that they are still looking into outcomes comparisons between overlapping and non-overlapping cases. 5. In May, Swedish Cherry Hill began giving consent forms to patients outlining the possibility of overlapping surgeries. Patients read that their surgeon "will be assisted by a care team," The Seattle Times reports, but the form does not spell out that physicians-in-training may be performing some of the surgery without surgeon supervision. 6. Swedish has faced investigations since The Seattle Times published a report on the Swedish Neuroscience Institute on the Cherry Hill campus in February. Former Swedish CEO Anthony Armada resigned in February after the report prompted state regulators to investigate. Dr. Delashaw also resigned from his post as chair of the Swedish Neuroscience Institute on the Cherry Hill campus on March 1, amid a state health regulatory investigation into complaints filed against him. Find out more about The Seattle Times investigation, here. 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. By Bob Cunningham Bowling Green State University will host internationally acclaimed opera composer-pianist Jake Heggie as its guest resident for the Edwin H. Simmons Creative Minds Series on Sunday (Oct. 22) through Tuesday (Oct. 24) at The Wolfe Center for the Arts. Heggie is the composer of the operas Dead Man Walking, Moby-Dick, Its a Wonderful Life, Great Scott, Three Decembers, Out of Darkness: Two Remain, and the choral opera, The Radio Hour, among others. He has also composed nearly 300 songs, as well as chamber, choral and orchestral works. The operas most created with writers Terrence McNally or Gene Scheer have been produced on five continents. Its a real privilege and honor to work with young people when theyre open to the perspective of someone else. The San Francisco-based composer recently was awarded the Eddie Medora King prize from the University of Texas at Austin Butler School of Music, and the Champion Award from the San Francisco Gay Mens Chorus. A Guggenheim Fellow, Heggie has served as a mentor for the Washington National Operas American Opera Initiative, and is a frequent guest artist at universities, conservatories and festivals throughout the United States and Canada. He and Scheer are currently at work on If I Were You, based on the Faustian story by Julian Green, for the Merola Opera Programs 2019 season. Heggie is excited to return to Ohio, where he lived from ages 5 to 16 growing up in the Columbus suburb of Bexley. Thats where I started taking piano and composing, he said. We moved there from Los Angeles and then we moved back to California when I was 16, but most of my formative experiences as a musician happened when I was growing up in Ohio. Heggie will be fully embedded with BGSU arts students during his residency as he lends his perspective to aspiring performers, composers and creative writers. Working with students is very important to me, he said. Anything to work with young people who are looking to find their way in this field because I was one of them at one point and always looking for guidance and information about what the next steps might be or how I could broaden my perspective of the world of performance and composition. Any insight I can give back to them, I feel its my responsibility. Its also great fun, and its a privilege to do it. In his message, Heggie wants to let students know that there isnt typically a direct path to a music career. Its a very winding path and its going to have a lot of lifes stuff thrown into it, he said. To show that, I usually tell my own story because there was a point where I never thought I would have a life in music that was in my late 20s and early 30s. My music career took me by surprise and found me, which was kind of a miracle, but it also involved staying ready and alert and passionate and being tenacious about a dream. If there are any words I can give to inspire them, that its not always going to be this easy but you will find a life associated with music if thats what you really want. I try to tell the journey and be very honest about it and the problems that happened along the way and the obstacles that there were to overcome, and also the great heroes and mentors I encountered along the way. There are always heroes and mentors along the way, its just that you have to be able to recognize them because they turn up in surprising places. Anything I can do to along those lines, because thats sort of life information and how people get their life and their career going. For 99 percent of the population, its not going to go the way you thought it was going to its going to take you in a different direction. But that might not be a bad thing; you just have to be open to it. Heggie will give the series keynote lecture at 8 p.m. Sunday at the Thomas B. and Kathleen M. Donnell Theatre in The Wolfe Center for the Arts. He will give two talks Monday afternoon in the Donnell Theatre and conduct two workshops and a master class Tuesday in the Marjorie E. Conrad, M.D. Choral Room. For times and more information about his talks and workshops, visit the Creative Minds website. All events are free and open to the public. Im excited to meet with the students and work with them, said Heggie, whose residency is made possible by Mary Cranker and her generous donations to the Edwin H. Simmons Creative Minds Endowment, an annual series intended to elevate the importance of the arts in our everyday lives. I can give them some insight on something that they could do from a perspective that could make it better or easier or clearer. Were all looking for clarity and authenticity. Its a real privilege and honor to work with young people when theyre open to the perspective of someone else. And to go back to the state where it all started for me, that will be great fun, too. First up, Joe Biden is thinking about dropping tariffs against China. But theres a spy in prison this morning that helps us understand why he shouldnt. Ill explain. Your second brief, If youre looking for a good paying job, you might consider being a CEO for a health insurance company. One executive made $142M dollars last year. Let's talk about that. And as always, Im keeping an eye out for developing stories. Put this one on your radar. Mexican cartels are grooming American kids online and paying them cash to traffic illegals or run drugs across the border. Ill share details. If you enjoyed this episode of the President's Daily Brief, remember to subscribe and listen daily at podfollow.com/pdb. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [October 17, 2017] The Equitable Bank Improves Speed of Responsiveness with Foxit Software FREMONT, Calif., Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Foxit Software, a leading software provider of fast, affordable, and secure PDF solutions, today announced that The Equitable Bank has selected PhantomPDF for its ability to provide advanced editing, collaboration and security functionality. Equitable Bank, which was founded over 90 years ago and has six branches in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a premier residential real estate lender that prides itself on serving its local community. Prior to moving to Foxit PhantomPDF, Equitable Bank used Adobe Acrobat for its PDF needs. The financial institution, however, had become frustrated with the inefficient notes and tracking functions in Adobe's software, along with its lack of collaboration features. And the team at Equitable Bank finally decided it was time for a switch when Acrobat Reader lost important business critical features after an update. "Once we determined that a change was needed, I investigated Foxit PhantomPDF and realized the software not only offered the necessary functionality, it also included features I didn't even know were available," said Mike Block, Vice President, Information Security Officer and Information Technology Oficer at The Equitable Bank. "With PhantomPDF, we are not only able to edit and share security reports, training documents and marketing materials quickly and easily, but we were also provided new ways to collaborate and improve processes." Equitable Bank saw many benefits to transitioning its staff to Foxit's PhantomPDF, including: Access to advanced editing features and functionality; Ability to easily edit and collaborate on security reports, training documents and marketing materials Elimination of need to create separate spreadsheets to keep track of pertinent information for bank examiners Increased performance, improved user environment and overall better experience Seamless onboarding and transition with industry's best support services. "The onboarding process with Foxit PhantomPDF was easy and problem free," says Block. "Just as importantly, we get tremendous value for the cost. I have to say, it's worth every single penny we paid." About Foxit Software Foxit is a leading software provider of fast, affordable, and secure PDF solutions. Foxit addresses the needs of three distinct market segments. For End-User Productivity, Foxit delivers easy to use desktop software, mobile apps, and cloud services to make knowledge workers more productive. ConnectedPDF delivers leading edge technology that powers document management, security, and collaboration services for PDF files. For Enterprise Automation, Foxit provides server software for large scale PDF document management and data capture. Foxit's Developer Solutions enable developers to incorporate powerful PDF technology into their applications. Foxit has over 475 million users and has sold to over 100,000 customers located in more than 200 countries. The company has offices all over the world, including locations in the US, Asia, Europe, and Australia. For more information, please visit https://www.foxitsoftware.com View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-equitable-bank-improves-speed-of-responsiveness-with-foxit-software-300537680.html SOURCE Foxit Software [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] 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 [October 17, 2017] SanKoBot Delivers the First VSLAM Technology System for Large Scale Production in the Market - Upgrade the Robotics from Mobile Phone Era into Smartphone Era SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- SanKoBot, a tech startup based in Shanghai and Shenzhen, China with R&D divisions in Shenzhen, Singapore, Silicon Valley and Israel, has released its ground-breaking robotics vision system embedded in the Smart Cleaning Robot at the Hong Kong Consumer Electronics Trade Fair, making it the first technology company in the world to deliver a Visual Simultaneous Location and Mapping ("VSLAM") system in large scale production for the household robotics market. This enables home robotics providers around the world to upgrade their robotic products into intelligent capability utilizing SanKoBot's VSLAM system. "SanKoBot's products are a radical step forward for the home robotics industry in the same way that visual sensing technology is revolutionizing the auto industry," says Robert Li, Founder and CEO of SanKoBot. "But home robotics applications are just a starting point for SanKoBot," adds Robert Li. "In the next phase of development, we plan to launch upgraded vision system products to break the mold of the Home AI industry. Our company is ambitious to develop innovative and ground-breaking products." The technology inside the SanKoBot VSLAM system achieves remarkable performance and delivers exceptional user experience with fast calculation speed, exceptional accuracy and robust running. As the key parameter data demonstrates, it is able to sense its location with an accuracy of 1 cm, running 20 fps with vision alone and running 100 fps with the fsion of other sensors. After it creates a map, the robot can quickly locate itself, within 1 second, even when it is lifted up or placed at a random spot. SanKoBot is the first company to provide this technology to home robotics providers at a low cost to enable a wide range of adaptation across the market. Unlike other feature-based VSLAM techniques, SanKoBot's VSLAM solution can handle a wide range of indoor environments, including those with low textures, very low or very strong light, as well as fast changing light conditions. "SanKoBot is the first technology company in the market to achieve commercial large scale production of this technology and launch it into the market, which is really good news for us," says Yan Shengfeng, a customer. "After various tests, I found this vision product robust and working perfectly in difficult conditions at the 3G Hall of Hong Kong Consumer Electronics Trade Fair." With a variety of sensors, SanKoBot's robotics vision system integrates multiple data streams to build its intelligence about the surroundings in a highly robust fashion. Utilizing state-of-the-art computer vision and artificial intelligence technologies, the robot continuously creates 3D visual landmarks, recognizes key objects, entrances, exits and boundaries of each room, and creates a complete 3D map of the indoor environment as it navigates through a room. As SanKoBot's angel investors, Leo Wang, founder of PreAngel Fund, and Jiaxi Lin, founder of Guojin Capital, put it succinctly: "SanKoBot is creating innovative solutions by bringing together VSLAM technology at large scale production for the market. In addition, their work to create the next-generation consumer robotics Personal Assistant will be a major breakthrough for comprehensively managing in home data and technology." Aviad Maizels, Founder and President of PrimeSense, the leader in Natural Interaction and 3D sensing, which was bought by Apple Inc. in 2013, now sits on the advisory board of SanKoBot together with David (Dadi) Perlmutter, former Intel CPO. SanKoBot brings future technology into the home, creating a Robotic Personal Assistant (RPA) that stays together with people and pets in the home. The RPA assists with all aspects of the Smart Home, interacting intuitively with humans and the physical world around it. SanKoBot's products integrate artificial intelligence, software and hardware to provide a complete Smart Home solution targeted to the China, US and global markets. SanKoBot's industry leading technology is differentiated from industry incumbents and upstarts through leveraging its R&D divisions in innovation hotspots across the world: China's innovation hubs, Silicon Valley, Israel's Silicon Wadi and Singapore. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sankobot-delivers-the-first-vslam-technology-system-for-large-scale-production-in-the-market-300538175.html SOURCE SanKoBot [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Greens councillor Jonathan Sri has called for design changes to the $3 billion Queens Wharf development as he believes its current form would bring hostile architecture to Brisbane. The development application submitted to the state government has outlined detailed plans for Destination Brisbane Consortiums development, covering everything from the height of the buildings to the design of outdoor benches. It was the placement of an armrest on a bench that had Cr Sri calling on the developments design to be changed. Efforts to keep rough sleepers away from Queens Wharf could put them in danger, Cr Sri said. The Crime Prevention Through Environment Design Report submitted as part of the development application stated how the development area will be used and what would be included in the area. "The state of telecommunications in Australia is ridiculous," says small businesss owner Shayne Scott. The Wodonga dentist was without a phone for three days this year after frustration with Telstra's services prompted her to switch Dental on Lawrence's phone system from Telstra to Commander. Shayne Scott is the owner of Dental on Lawrence in Wodonga. "We've had ongoing issues since we joined," Scott says. "It took a very, very, long time for them to sort out the issues." The business, which employs 10 staff and turns over more than $1 million a year, experienced ongoing internet and phone outages that impacted all its systems, including patient management software. Brisbane City Council has defended its decision to enter an agreement with a Brisbane technology company after opposition councillors revealed an alleged personal connection to a councillor, and claimed the project had little value. On Tuesday, opposition leader Peter Cumming called on the council to explain why Brisbane company Sniip was handed the potentially lucrative business of supplying a new way to pay rates bill without tenders being called. Labor leader Peter Cumming has questioned why the council entered a business agreement with Sniip Credit:Glenn Hunt Sniip approached the council in March 2015 to put forward its digital payment option where customers could scan a QR code to pay their bill. Cr Cumming said documentation, obtained by the opposition, showed senior council officers advised against adopting the app as the take-up rate of QR codes in Australia was disappointingly low and the project had little value. Authorities in Queensland are urging parents to lock their homes securely after a six-year-old girl narrowly avoided being snatched by a man who took her from her bed. The girl was allegedly grabbed by the unknown man who climbed the fence of her family's Loganlea home, south of Brisbane, in the early hours of Monday and unlocked the back door by reaching through a dog door. Police have released CCTV footage of a man riding bicycle in the area around the time of the offence. Credit:Queensland police media Her parents were alerted by the girl's screams as she was being carried downstairs and punched by the attacker. "It does appear opportunistic," Detective Senior Sergeant Grant Ralston told reporters at Logan police station. Rebels motorcycle outlaw gang boss Aaron "AJ" Graham is the latest bikie to be kicked out of Australia after a new law was pushed through targeting organised crime figures. The notorious bikie was deported to his native New Zealand on Tuesday, despite last month winning a High Court appeal against his second visa cancellation. Notorious bikie Aaron "AJ" Graham is the latest bikie to be deported. Credit:Danielle Smith Graham, 50, whose visa was revoked on character grounds, was packed to leave Sydney's Villawood detention centre when Australian Immigration Minister Peter Dutton cancelled his visa for a third time. It came hours after a High Court ruling that Graham's earlier visa cancellation decision was invalid. "Some of the institutions and the values that have most helped to shape and to define Western civilisation Christianity, the church and the crown now tend to be those most frequently under fire ... the traditional concept of marriage won't be maintained by a claim that the church's right to free speech is under threat though it is. It will only be maintained by preserving or by rebuilding the old consensus that, ideally at least, marriage is an exclusive union entered into for life by one man with one woman in the expectation of children." The church matters desperately to Abbott when it comes to same-sex marriage but not when it comes to climate change. Last week, when Tony Abbott gave a speech called titled "daring to doubt" to the Global Warming Policy Foundation in Britain, he said: "In most countries, far more people die in cold snaps than in heatwaves, so a gradual lift in global temperatures, especially if it is accompanied by more prosperity and more capacity to adapt to change, might even be beneficial." That is in contrast to what he said when he needed to be responsible. When he was still prime minister at the G20 summit in Brisbane in 2014, he said: "Australia has always believed that climate change is real, that humanity makes a contribution and that strong and effective action against it should be taken." He was clearly good at pretending then. Just two years ago, Pope Francis urged Catholics and everyone else to accept the reality of climate change. He said in his encyclical: "Climate change is a global problem with grave implications ... it represents one of the principal challenges facing humanity in our day. Its worst impact will probably be felt by developing countries in coming decades. Many of the poor live in areas particularly affected by phenomena related to warming." The Pope doesn't believe that warming will help anyone. He says as do scientists, godly or otherwise that global warming will drive the poor from their homes. It will cause starvation. Yet Abbott thinks a gradual lift in global temperatures is a good idea. The Greens want to slug Queensland property developers with an extra tax estimated to raise $9 billion over five years. But the head of a peak body for the property industry in Queensland has described the plan as "dangerously simplistic". The Greens have proposed a tax of 75 per cent on the gains from land rezoning, which they believe could raise $9 billion in five years. Credit:Erin Jonasson On Wednesday, the Queensland Greens will announce a Developer Tax on any land rezoned to higher use, whether as part of a new neighbourhood plan or on an ad hoc basis. It would be levied at 75 per cent of the difference between the officially assessed land value before rezoning compared with the land value afterwards. [October 17, 2017] APWG Report: Cybercrime Gangs Focus on the Shipping & Cloud Storage Sectors in 1H 2017 The Anti-Phishing Working Group's H1 2017 Phishing Activity Trends Report found upticks in phishing attacks against companies in the Logistics & Shipping as well Cloud Storage & File Hosting sectors, mounted by cyber gangs against the accounts of both individuals and enterprises. Once they steal usernames and passwords, the criminals can then steal not only funds, but also use services to spend spam mail, order goods for resale, and other nefarious ventures. While the report finds that phishing attacks have occurred most frequently against companies in the Payment, Financial, and the Software-as-a-Service/Webmail sectors in the first half, APWG contributing analysts found two important focus points of cybercrime gang activity: An increase in the number of phishing attacks using free hosting providers or website builders. In the new gTLDs and in ccTLDs, much of the phishing activity was concentrated in a small number of domains. By studying these phenomenon, the APWG hopes to raise awareness of these vulnerabilities so that hosting providers and registrars can improve their business practices and mitigation operations. Crane Hassold, Manager of Threat Intelligence at PhishLabs, noted that hosting providers that offer free hosting and free website-building tools provide criminals with opportunities. "These free hosts are not only easy and cheap to use, but they also allow threat actors to create subdomains spoofing a targeted brand, resulting in a more legitimate-looking phishing site. Free hosts also afford phishers additional anonymity, because these services do not make registrant information easily available." An examination of domain name registration patterns revealed other poorly managed web hosting practices that enabled crime. "The .TECH top-level domain had a higher concentration of phishing sites than would be expected, considering the number of domains in the TLD," said Jonathan Matkowsky, Vice-President, Intellectual Property and Brand Security at RiskIQ. "Our investigation found that this was because a hosting provider in the Russian Federation was allowing its customers to create sub-domains on the hosting provider's domain name. This offered miscreants the opportunity to target multiple brands across a variety of industries." The full text of the report is available here: http://docs.apwg.org/reports/apwg_trends_report_h1_2017.pdf About the APWG The APWG, founded in 2003 as the Anti-Phishing Working Group, is the global industry, law enforcement, and government coalition focused on unifying the global response to electronic crime. Membership is open to qualified financial institutions, online retailers, ISPs and Telcos, the law enforcement community, solutions providers, multi-lateral treaty organizations, research centers, trade associations and government agencies. There are more than 2,000 companies, government agencies and NGOs participating in the APWG worldwide. The APWG's and websites offer the public, industry and government agencies practical information about phishing and electronically mediated fraud as well as pointers to pragmatic technical solutions that provide immediate protection. The APWG is co-founder and co-manager of the Stop. Think. Connect. Messaging Convention, the global online safety public awareness collaborative and founder/curator of the eCrime Researchers Summit, the world's only peer-reviewed conference dedicated specifically to electronic crime studies . APWG advises hemispheric and global trade groups and multilateral treaty organizations such as the European Commission, the G8 High Technology Crime Subgroup, Council of Europe's Convention on Cybercrime, United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Europol EC3 and the Organization of American States. APWG is a member of the steering group of the Commonwealth Cybercrime Initiative at the Commonwealth of Nations. Among APWG's corporate sponsors are: Among APWG's corporate sponsors include: AhnLab, Area 1, AT&T (T), Afilias Ltd., Avast!, AVG Technologies, Axur, Baidu Antivirus, Bangkok Bank, BBN Technologies, Barracuda Networks, BillMeLater, Bkav, Blue Coat, BrandMail, BrandProtect, Bsecure Technologies, CSC (News - Alert) Digital Brand Services, Check Point Software Technologies, Claro, Cloudmark, Comcast, CrowdStrike, CSIRTBANELCO, Cyber Defender, CYREN, Cyveillance, DNS Belgium, DigiCert, Domain Tools, Donuts, Duo Security, Easy Solutions, PayPal (News - Alert), eCert, EC Cert, ESET, EST Soft, Facebook, FeelSafe Digital, FEBRABAN, Fortinet, FraudWatch International, F-Secure, GetResponse, GlobalSign, GoDaddy, Google, Hauri, Hitachi (News - Alert) Systems, Ltd., Huawei, ICANN, Identity Guard, Infoblox, IronPort (Cisco), Infoblox, Intel (INTC), Interac, IT Matrix, iThreat Cyber Group, iZOOlogic, KnowBe4, LaCaixa, Lenos Software, LookingGlass, MX Tools, MailChannels, MailJet, MailChimp, MailShell, MailUp, MarkMonitor (TRI), Melbourne IT, MessageLevel, Microsoft (News - Alert) (MSFT), MicroWorld, Mimecast, Mirapoint, NHN, NZRS, MyPW, nProtect Online Security, Netcraft, Network Solutions, NeuStar, Nominet, Nominum, NZRS Limited, Public Interest Registry, Panda Software, Phishlabs, PhishMe, Planty.net, Prevalent, Prevx, Proofpoint, Psafe, RSA Security (EMC), Rakuten, RedMarlin, Return Path, RiskIQ, RuleSpace, SalesForce, SecureBrain, SendGrid, S21sec, SIDN, SilverPop, SiteLock, SnoopWall, SoftForum, SoftLayer, SoftSecurity, SOPHOS, SunTrust, SurfControl, Symantec (SYMC), Tagged, TDS Telecom, Telefonica (TEF), ThreatSTOP, TransCreditBank, Trend Micro (TMIC), Trustwave, UITSEC, Vasco (VDSI), VADE-RETRO, VeriSign (News - Alert) (VRSN), Wombat Security Technologies, and zvelo. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171017006480/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Czech billionaire and leader of the ANO political movement Andrej Babis. Credit:AP Those other parties include far-right populist Tomio Okamura's Freedom and Direct Democracy, an increasingly popular group with an anti-Roma, anti-Islamic message. Andrej Babis is the second richest person in the Czech republic, a local financial paper calculated. His agriculture and media empire is worth 88 billion crowns ($5 billion) and his worth had doubled in the four years he's been in politics. Czech billionaire and leader of the ANO 2011 political movement Andrej Babis. Credit:AP But he paints himself as the foe of the elite. "Babis is a populist," Sean Hanley, senior lecturer in East European politics at University College London, wrote this week. "His folksy self-presentation as the plain-spoken practical businessman finally disgusted by corruption taking on a decrepit and corrupt party establishment who have failed ordinary people since 1989, is textbook stuff". Emily Mansfield, analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit says Babis is likely to lead coalition-building talks after the election as head of the biggest party. But a number of controversies are swirling around him, Mansfield says. Earlier this year he was forced to place his business interests in a blind trust. Babis was finance minister and deputy prime minister in the coalition government until May, when he was dismissed due to allegations he had avoided paying tax as CEO of Agrofert in 2012. Since then his legal woes have deepened. Earlier this month he was charged with fraud over the use of 2.3 million in European subsidies in the construction of his Stork Nest Farm ten years ago. And a court case in Slovakia has reopened over his possible collaboration with the former communist secret police (though a court previously ruled there was no proof of the collaboration, and Babis denies it). But mud just doesn't seem to stick to him. "He's very charismatic," Mansfield says. "He's a big character with a very big public profile. The ANO movement doesn't have much ideological basis to it, it's very much based around Babis' personality and his leadership. "He's been described as the Czech Trump, but he' s not the kind of nationalist ideologue, he's very much a pragmatic businessman, he's not a nationalist or far-right leader. "He says he wants to clear out corruption he's much more technocratic and pro-business. You could perhaps compare him to (France's Emmanuel) Macron a charismatic anti-establishment person coming into the political scene and pretty much exploding it." It was primed for such an explosion. Though the Czech economy has been ticking along nicely (it has the lowest unemployment in the EU), the Social Democrats, for most of two decades the country's biggest party, have a reputation for low-level rent-seeking. "People have got worn down by the impression that politicians are always acting in their own interest, with business interests in the background," says Mansfield. "Babis came in and said 'I'm too rich to steal'. That's attractive." Miroslav Mares, professor of political science at Masaryk University in Brno, says Babis is a symptom of the dissatisfaction with political development in the post-Communist country. "This is irrational dissatisfaction, the people have better expectations," he says. "Salaries are not as high as in Germany or Austria, for example. People compare themselves with these countries, they don't compare themselves to the worse situation in other eastern European countries such as Hungary or Slovakia. "(Babis) promises that he is able to stop the corrupt system, and people believe they will then receive more money from the system." Professor Mares says Babis has retained support despite his legal problems because he has presented them as a conspiracy against him. "His supporters feel they should fight for their leader," Professor Mares says. "On the other hand you can see lower support than one or two months ago." Babis is likely to be in the best position after the weekend to lead a coalition government. Unfortunately, he doesn't like coalitions. The necessary negotiations and compromises are neither his business nor political style, local financial paper Hospodarske Noviny wrote. Las Vegas gunman Stephen Paddock with his Australian girlfriend Marilou Danley. Hickey said he was attending a meeting with MGM representatives in one room of the suite as Campos waited with a security guard - hired by MGM - and another union member in the living room. When the meeting ended about 2pm, Hickey said Campos was no longer in the room. "When I got in touch with the other union member, I was told Campos was taken to the Quick Care" health clinic, Hickey said. He didn't hear from the guard afterward and announced to a scrum of reporters that night that Campos had cancelled interviews. Since the days that Paddock opened fire at people attending a country music festival across from Mandalay Bay, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has shifted its timeline more than once. Initially, investigators said that Campos was shot after Paddock opened fire on the Route 91 Harvest festival concert, potentially distracting the gunman and saving lives. Then, Sheriff Joseph Lombardo said Campos was shot at 9.59pm, six minutes before the concert began. Finally, at a brief news conference last Friday, he said Campos was shot by the gunman at 10.05pm. Lombardo's revision on Friday was made a day after MGM Resorts, which owns Mandalay Bay, disputed the department's timeline. In a statement, MGM said the time of 9.59pm came from a hotel report that was created manually and was not accurate. Casino officials said the gunman was firing at concertgoers "at the same time as, or within 40 seconds after," Campos reported the gunfire over his radio. Lombardo also said the guard had been investigating an alarm for a door that had been left ajar on the 32nd floor, where the shooting occurred. He also said that Paddock had checked into the hotel on September 25, not September 28 as had been previously reported. The correction raises questions about why it took police 12 minutes to find the gunman's hotel room when officers were already in the building and why they were searching other rooms when they were told the gunman was on the 32nd floor. According to a former armed security guard at Mandalay Bay, there are supposed to be armed guards patrolling the hallways of the hotel and that Campos was using a device to log in his whereabouts in the casino. The former security guard, who worked there in the early 2000s, questioned Lombardo's statement that Campos was investigating the open door alarm. "There was no alarm system for opened doors when I was there," he said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to discuss security issues. "You know how often people would have to call hotel guests if that was the case?" One of Campos' co-workers wasn't surprised by his actions. She hopes Campos emerges and talks to the public so that people can honour him for his bravery. "He was always in the middle of what was going down," said the co-worker, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of concerns she would lose her job. "He's humble and so charming," she added. Campos had been living in a quiet residential neighbourhood in northern Las Vegas. On Sunday afternoon, a man sat in a white truck parked outside the house where Campos is said to live. The license plate on his truck was hidden with a white towel. He said he had been hired to guard the house and prevent the news media from entering the property. He declined to say who had hired him. Three "no trespassing" signs clung to the fence and house, with a warning to reporters: "No media on property." It's only a suggestion. But if you're trying to convince the voting public that your new energy and climate policy has not in any way been dictated by a string-pulling Tony Abbott prince of partisan brawling, the wrecker-in-chief, the original Dr No maybe don't call it NEG. The national energy guarantee, which will replace the orphaned and unloved clean energy target, will force energy companies to meet standards mandating reliability and emissions reduction, making it the Rorschach blot of energy policy: you can read into it whatever you like! You might just have to squint pretty hard. The Prime Minister announced the NEG on Facebook with a video in which he speaks directly to voters. He looks nice. He's wearing a blue suit, not his Q&A leather jacket read into that what you will. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Professor X did not mark the spot! Archeologists finished excavating a Gowanus lot and found no human remains at the site that local historians and actor Patrick Stewart who famously portrayed the mutant headmaster in the X-men comic-book series believed was the final resting place of slaves and a band of Revolutionary-War soldiers. The experts uncovered a few interesting finds, including a 19th-century well, cistern, potty, and an exterior wall of a brick farmhouse, but no bones of slain American heroes, prompting the state to authorize the city to move forward with building a school on the land without fear of disturbing the dead, according to a letter from a rep in the state office that mandated the dig. The planned project will have no impact on cultural resources, wrote Philip Perazio, an archeologist with the state office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. Perazio fired off the letter to the citys education department on Friday, following months of digging at the lot on Ninth Street between Third and Fourth avenues that some area history buffs demanded be excavated after Council voted last December to construct a 180-seat pre-kindergarten there. The historians contended that slaves from a nearby farm and members of the Maryland 400 soldiers who died amid a rearguard action that allowed Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army to flee British troops during the Battle of Brooklyn were interred en masse on the site. And Sir Stewart, who moved to nearby Seventh Street in 2012, buoyed their case when he told Gentlemans Quarterly magazine earlier this year that he would petition the mayor to erect a memorial to the fallen heroes on the lot. All it is is a concreted-over car park, but underneath the concrete is the mass grave, he said. Its worth making, I think, a bit of a fuss of. In March, the city announced that archeological contractor AKRF would perform the excavation, and its crew later unearthed evidence of underground shafts in its initial dig, suggesting the possibility of additional historical findings, including the gravesite itself. The states historic preservation office then told the city to further excavate, a process that revealed a thin scattering of 19th- and 20th-century artifacts in addition to the well, cistern, and privy dating to the 1800s. No bodies turned up, however, and AKRFs archeologists said in their report that it was highly unlikely Revolutionary-era remnants or human remains would be found at greater depths. But some history buffs who initially pushed for the dig are contesting the results and hired a specialist to review them looking for anything that suggests the citys contractor may have cut corners in the process. We have an expert from Maryland who specializes in studying bones and how they work and where theyre found, said Bob Furman, author of Brooklyn Heights: The Rise, Fall and Rebirth of Americas First Suburb. The point is that we dont feel that, based on this, what they did is adequate. Furman claimed the cistern, well, loo amount to what is essentially a 19th-century dumping ground, which would have been located beside a slave quarters on the grounds of an area farm. And the fact that surveyors didnt find evidence of a cabin or slaves remains is enough to raise eyebrows, he said. Our expert feels its likely that if those things existed, there were houses and slave quarters there, Furman said. Other historians from a borough museum dedicated to the Battle of Brooklyn disagreed, however, arguing that the remnants found on the site in fact disqualify it from being a mass grave. The fact they found these things on that site lends credence to the fact its not a mass burial site or a grave yard, said Kim Maier, executive director of the Old Stone House. Reach reporter Colin Mixson at cmixs on@cn gloca l.com or by calling (718) 260-4505. The Ibec group representing the technology sector, Technology Ireland, yesterday called on the Irish Government to apply to submit an amicus brief to the US Supreme Court, to safeguard legal framework and establish certainty for companies. This comes after a decision by the US Supreme Court to hear the case of the US Government vs. Microsoft regarding a warrant to search an email account. Technology Ireland claims that the case in front of the Supreme Court is not about the importance of gathering evidence, but how this evidence should be gathered. In the normal course of events, if the US Government needs to gather evidence that is stored outside its jurisdiction, the traditional process of the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty is followed. In this case though, the US Government is arguing that it should be allowed to circumvent this agreed mechanism - including its in built checks and balances - and unilaterally seize digital information that is stored in Ireland. Technology Ireland claims that should the US Government succeed in this case, companies would be put in a position of having to choose between breaking US law or breaking European law and that such a conflict is not acceptable. Speaking yesterday, Director of Technology Ireland, Paul Sweetman said, "Todays case is not about one company. It will have far reaching implications for any organisation that manages and handles data, be they US headquartered or simply have a US base. Data and data management underpin the modern economy. Companies and their customers must have predictability, certainty and a clear legal framework on how that data is both managed and safeguarded." He added, "Given todays decision, Technology Ireland is urging that the Irish Government apply to submit an amicus brief to the US Supreme Court. This will allow the Irish Government to present key points that protect Irish law and bring certainty to companies operating here." Source: www.businessworld.ie It was announced today that Bank of Ireland has launched a range of supports for those affected by the recent storm including a 50million fund to provide support for businesses and homeowners. The bank is facilitating emergency working capital for businesses and homeowners to repair properties as well as payment flexibility on products. Mortgage breaks for up to three months and other payment flexibility can be provided for those affected by the weather and a dedicated support helpline has been set up for customers to contact the bank. Bank of Ireland will also provide business and agri customers with necessary funding with a commitment to prioritise loan decisions and approval as quickly as possible for those impacted. Furthermore, mobile financial advisers and insurance assessors are available to visit customers at their homes, farms or business to discuss options available to them. Businesses requiring desk space can avail of Bank of Irelands Workbench and Startlab co-working facilities including free wi-fi and meeting rooms. Speaking today, Director Distribution Channels at Bank of Ireland, Gavin Kelly said, "We are committed to providing support to communities across the country. Our dedicated helpline 1800 365 100 is available from 8am this morning and our social media channels and phone teams are all open. Local staff are reaching out to customers and communities to help, and a 50million fund available will provide support for business and personal customers. We can also take a flexible approach in relation to payments on other products and are asking customers to talk to us." He added, "The vast majority of our branches and ATMs are operating as usual today and our teams are available to support communities across Ireland. We are asking any customers who need help to call our dedicated helpline on 1800 365 100 or drop into one of our 250 branches nationwide and to speak to our advisers. Alternatively our mobile advisers can come to them to discuss what we can do to help. We can also assist business owners with access and workspace through our Workbench and Startlab facilities. Our priority now is to support customers in any way that we can." Source: www.businessworld.ie Drugmakers and medical devices companies are drawing up plans to protect supply chains in case Britain crashes out of the European Union without a trade deal, and some small service businesses are already relocating to stay inside the bloc. MeddiQuest, an eight-person consultancy specialising in medical technology regulations, is in the process of moving from outside Cambridge to Ireland. "A significant part of our business is being an authorised EU representative," Chief Executive Neil Armstrong told Reuters. "Clearly, if the UK is no longer in the EU, we will be no more in the EU than an American company, so we can't be an EU authorised rep." Armstrong said some rivals were also arranging to set up in Ireland or other EU destinations, including Malta. Fears of a "hard Brexit" have been heightened after EU negotiator Michel Barnier said last week that talks were deadlocked. That has fuelled anxieties in a healthcare sector governed by complex regulations and long product development cycles. Drugmakers are already braced for disruption when the European Medicines Agency is uprooted from London, with politicians due to make a decision on the drug watchdog's new location on Nov. 20. But Brexit also creates other big uncertainties, including the potential need for retesting of UK-manufactured batches of medicines shipped to Europe, as well as the transfer of UK product licences to European-based entities. "We're starting to plan for the worst-case scenario," Alan Morrison, vice president of international regulatory affairs at Merck & Co, told an industry conference last week. "It's a long-cycle business. If we have to plan for product testing in Europe for drugs that are currently manufactured in the UK, that is going to take some time." Britain has a large pharmaceuticals sector and produces many medicines used in Europe and other countries, including big fast-growing markets like China, where shipments are currently also governed by EU trade arrangements. A disorderly exit from the EU in March 2019 with no system in place to ensure drug supplies is not what anyone in the British government wants. Indeed, British ministers declared in July they were aiming for continued co-operation in drug regulation after Brexit. But that requires an agreement on transition terms with the remaining 27 EU countries - something executives across various industries see as far from certain. AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot said in an interview last month he was worried about "the potential for the one thing I didn't think would happen which is a hard Brexit". In the absence of a deal, Britain's trade with the EU would revert to World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, under which industrialised countries generally apply zero tariffs for medicines. However, the WTO's drugs list has not been updated since 2010, so newer medicines could still be hit. Virginia Acha, head of research, medical and innovation at the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry, said companies needed to know imminently whether or not there would be a transition period. Without that information, businesses would start having to put strategies in place to deal with the repercussions of Britain becoming a non-EU "third country". "We're running out of time," she said. "There may be some companies that decide to push the button now just to fix it." Back at MeddiQuest, Armstrong says his staff are working flat out to help multiple international companies draw up contingency plans. "Everybody is planning and regretting the fact they didn't start planning earlier." (Reuters) Source: www.businessworld.ie It was announced today that Jimmy Wales will appear at a public event in Trinity College Dublin on Thursday, 26 October to celebrate Irelands Internet Day 2017. Now in its third year, Irelands Internet Day, which coincides with international Internet Day, aims to promote awareness, knowledge, use and understanding of the internet in Ireland by its citizens, businesses and communities. It highlights the achievements of Irish and international internet entrepreneurs and the impact on society of the internet innovations and technologies. Mr Wales, previously ranked as one of TIME Magazines most influential people in the world, founded the free encyclopaedia, Wikipedia, in 2001. Wikipedia is the fifth most visited website globally and counts half a billion unique visitors each month. He is also the president of Wikia, a for-profit wiki hosting company that allows users to build their own specialised wikis typically relating to a specific interest or fandom. Mr Wales will discuss the fight against fake news, the launch of his recent news website WikiTribune, and how threats to online knowledge-sharing can be combated with evidence-based journalism. The event will be hosted by the IE Domain Registry (IEDR), the company that manages and maintains Irelands country domain name. Speaking today, Chief Executive of IEDR, David Curtin said, "IEDR is delighted to host Irelands third annual Internet Day, and to welcome the visionary internet icon Jimmy Wales to Ireland, to join us for the celebration. Alongside the founders of Google, Facebook and Twitter, Jimmy Wales has been one of the most important contributors to the modern internet age. Through Wikipedia, the sum of human knowledge is available to us in hundreds of different languages from the convenience of our smartphones and computers, for free and in real time." He added, "Mr Waless vision of a more open internet, accessible to everyone, is something that aligns with IEDRs objectives for the internet in Ireland and the overarching theme of Internet Day. We want to make the internet more accessible to individuals and to businesses the length and breadth of the country, be they in the centre of Dublin or rural Roscommon." Source: www.businessworld.ie While Cafe de Coral Holdings Ltd. saw its Hong Kong businesses achieve a 5% growth in revenue, sales in southern China restaurants, such as the pictured Guangzhou eatery, dropped by 7%. Photo: IC Popular Hong Kong fast food chain Cafe de Coral Holdings Ltd. has shuttered all its eastern China stores amid declining profits. The closures are a result of the firms short-term strategic adjustment, and the company will focus on southern China, where it operates 93 restaurants and may open more, a Cafe de Coral spokesperson told Caixin. The restaurant chain which serves Cantonese-styled rice, noodles and milk tea is popular among Hong Kong diners and it entered the Chinese mainland market in 1992. It then opened branches in southern China, where diners share food preferences with their Hong Kong neighbors. But early efforts were stymied by high costs for rent and relocating employees from Hong Kong and it exited the key Guangzhou market in 1999. It returned after 2000, applying a more localized strategy of employing mainland Chinese staff and offering more customized menus, according to Guangzhou government-backed media outlet Win Weekly. However, the company saw its profit drop 11.7% to HK$518 million ($66 million) in the financial year ending Mar. 31, 2017. Its Hong Kong businesses achieved a 5% growth in revenue while sales from southern China declined 7%. And performance in eastern China also suffered as a result of softening market conditions, the group said in a statement. The food and beverage industry in Mainland China as a whole experienced slower growth during the year as a result of the economic slowdown and lower consumer spending, Cafe de Coral said. The group said it would resume its expansion when the economy begins to recover. Shares of Hong Kong-listed Cafe de Coral stayed flat at HK$24 on Tuesday. Contact reporter Coco Feng (renkefeng@caixin.com) Modified On Apr 11, 2019 01:13 PM By Rachit Shad for Maruti Baleno 2015-2022 With prices starting from Rs 5.35 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the Maruti Suzuki Baleno is available in twelve different variants, including the RS Prices for the Baleno start from Rs 5.26 lakh and go all the way up to Rs 8.43 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom Delhi). Before we get into variant-wise descriptions, lets quickly round up the dimensions and engine specifications. Vitals L x W x H (mm) 3,995 x 1,745 x 1,510 Ground Clearance (mm) 170 (unladen) Seating Capacity 5 Engine Specifications Engine Petrol BoosterJet Petrol Diesel Displacement 1,197cc 998cc 1,248cc Max. Power 84PS 102PS 75PS Max. Torque 115Nm 150Nm 190Nm Claimed Fuel Efficiency 21.4kmpl (MT & CVT) 21.1kmpl 27.39kmpl Just to get things started, all variants of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno come with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, seat belt pre-tensioners with force limiters and ISOFIX child seat anchorages. Only the petrol engine comes with a CVT (continuously variable transmission). All variants with a three-pedal setup come with a 5-speed manual transmission. Maruti Suzuki Baleno Sigma - Premium hatch for those on a budget Price Sigma Petrol MT Sigma Diesel MT Ex-Showroom Delhi Rs 5.35 lakh Rs 6.51 lakh Significant Features Body coloured ORVMs, door handles and bumpers Headlamp leveling Central locking Front power windows Driver side seatbelt reminder Tilt steering adjustment Front and rear accessory socket Anti-Theft security system The Baleno, even in its base version, has a decent amount of kit. The only real misses are the music system, which can later be a third-party, aftermarket unit, parking sensors and rear power windows. So, if you are on a budget and want a practical hatchback, which is big enough for a family of four and will be reliable, just go for the base model. If your average daily run is high, get the diesel as it is a lot more frugal and is also fun to drive. Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta - Covers all basics but incremental cost on the higher side Price Delta Petrol Delta CVT Delta Diesel Ex-Showroom Delhi Rs 5.99 lakh Rs 7.09 lakh Rs 7.17 lakh Approx price premium above Sigma Rs 64,000 NA Rs 66,000 Significant Features Added Over Baleno Sigma Electrically foldable ORVMs with turn indicators Full wheel covers Reverse parking sensors Music system with AUX/USB/Radio/CD/Bluetooth Rear defogger Rear wiper with washer Automatic climate control 60:40 split rear seat Rear power windows With those added features and some more in its kitty, the price premium you pay is a bit stretched. But then if you are getting all the extra features fitted by the manufacturer itself, you do get that extra peace of mind and that doesnt really have a price, does it?! If you are after a two-pedal setup for an on-road price of around Rs 8 lakh, the Delta CVT will fit your bill too. The Baleno in its Delta variant adds more value to the package. Almost all the major features have been ticked here. But if you want features like alloy wheels and auto headlamps in the recipe, youll have to look at the next-in-line variant. Maruti Suzuki Baleno Zeta - Best balance between price and premiumness Price Zeta Petrol Zeta CVT Zeta Diesel Ex-Showroom Delhi Rs 6.65 lakh Rs 7.70 lakh Rs 7.78 lakh Approx price premium above Delta Rs 66,000 Rs 61,000 Rs 61,000 Significant Features Added Over Baleno Delta Height adjustable drivers seat Leather-wrapped steering wheel Automatic headlamps Follow me home/lead to vehicle headlamps Front fog lamps Auto dimming IRVM Coloured MID (Multi Information Display) Telescopic steering adjust 16-inch Alloy wheels Lights in front footwell, boot and glovebox Push button start/stop with smart key Front armrest with storage No matter which way you look at this, itll be hard to argue against the added stuff for the extra money you pay. As you may have noticed, most of those features are beefing up the convenience factor for the owner. If you are the sort of person who likes the car to take control of some things automatically and doesnt ask you to insert the key to start the engine, the Zeta variant is the one for you. And as with the Delta, the Zeta is also available with the comfort of a CVT. Maruti Suzuki Baleno Alpha - Emotional buy Price Alpha Petrol Alpha CVT Alpha Diesel Ex-Showroom Delhi Rs 7.35 lakh Rs 8.40 lakh Rs 8.49 lakh Approx price premium above Zeta Rs 70,000 Rs 70,000 Rs 71,000 Significant Features Added Over Baleno Zeta Projector headlamps 7.0-inch SmartPlay infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Reverse parking camera GPS navigation LED daytime running lights (DRLs) Voice command recognition The simple matter of the fact is this - if you want all the bells and whistles in your Baleno, including the touchscreen infotainment system, youll have to shell out an additional Rs 71,000 over the Zeta variant. Although the premium is a bit steep in our opinion, the Baleno Alpha is still one of the most affordable, fully loaded premium hatchbacks currently available. Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS - Extra power comes at extra cost But what if you want all the gadgetry that the company has to offer, with some added oomph from underneath the pretty exterior? Thats where the Baleno RS comes in. As you must have guessed, it is based on the Baleno Alpha variant but powering it is a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder BoosterJet petrol engine that pumps out 102PS of power and 150Nm of torque. Sure, that added power isnt going to help in the fuel consumption section but with a claimed mileage of 21.1kmpl, it isnt the end of the world. How will the world know that you are driving an RS and not a standard Baleno? Well, the RS comes with sportier front and rear bumpers, racy side skirts, mesh front grille, black 16-inch alloy wheels and an RS badge at the boot lid. Baleno RS vs Polo GT TSI - Read the detailed comparison here. With a price of Rs 8.44 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the Baleno RS is about Rs 1.09 lakh dearer than the standard Baleno Alpha, Rs 4,000 more than the Alpha-CVT, and about Rs 5,000 cheaper than the Alpha-diesel. So if you want a practical hatch for your family and something fast to tinkle the keen drivers instinct at times, the Baleno RS makes for a perfect fit. We hope that this article about the Balenos variants has helped you decide which one suits your needs and requirements the best. If you do have any suggestion or feedback, please share it in the comments section below. Also Read: New Maruti Swift 2018 vs Baleno: Which One To Buy? Read More on : Maruti Baleno diesel An official employment notification has been released by the Manipur Public Service Commission (Manipur PSC), calling out for candidates to apply for the post of Unani Physician and Nature Care Physician. The organization will conduct and written examination for the appointment of candidates on this position. Vacancy Availability Name of the posts Unani Physician Nature Care Physician Number of posts 5 Eligibility Educational qualification: Unani Physician Candidates must have done Graduation in Unani Medicine and Surgery. Nature Cure Physician Candidates must have done Diploma in Naturopathy Age limit: Unani Physician 21-38 Years Nature Cure Physician 21-38 Years IIT Delhi Offers Short Term Course on Business Models in Technology Salary details Candidates who will get selected will be paid a basic pay of Rs. 9,300-34,800/- per month. Location Manipur Selection process Written test followed by Personal Interview Application Fees Candidates of general category have to pay Rs. 300/- and Rs. 150/- for ST/SC candidates through online mode. How to apply for the Manipur PSC recruitment? In order to apply for the Manipur PSC recruitment, follow the steps given here: Log on to the official website of Manipur PSC http://mpscmanipur.gov.in/ On the homepage, under Whats New , click on the link that reads "Online Applications are invited for direct recruitment to 3 posts of Unani Physician(MHS Grade-IV(AYUSH CADRE) and 2 posts of Nature Cure(MHS Grade-IV(AYUSH CADRE) in the Directorate of AYUSH, Manipur" , click on the link that reads "Online Applications are invited for direct recruitment to 3 posts of Unani Physician(MHS Grade-IV(AYUSH CADRE) and 2 posts of Nature Cure(MHS Grade-IV(AYUSH CADRE) in the Directorate of AYUSH, Manipur" Read the official notification carefully Follow the procedure given there Enter the necessary details in the application form Click to submit Complete the registration process Deadline The last date to apply for this post is 28th October 2017. Indian Railways Recruitment for Staff Nurse and Pharmacist: Apply Now! If you have just started your journey in an online casino or are looking for a new site to play,... PIC increases shareholding in PPC 17 October 2017 Cement producer PPC reported on Monday, 16 October, that the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) had increased its shareholding in the South African cement company, which is currently mulling bids from several parties that are vying for its shares. AfriSam, supported by Canada's Fairfax Africa Investments, made an offer in September to buy R2bn of PPC ordinary shares at ZAR5.75 a share (US$0.43). The offer includes a ZAR4bn recapitalisation of AfriSam before any merger. The PIC, which invests funds on behalf of state-owned entities, said it had increased its shareholding in the cement company to 21.22 per cent from 15 per cent. PIC also owns 66 per cent of the unlisted AfriSam, which believes a merger would unlock value for shareholders of both companies. At least two of PPC's larger shareholders have publicly disapproved of the of AfriSam Fairfax proposal, arguing that it undervalued PPC. Published under A card arrived in the mail about five weeks ago. The Hallmark Company wrote Wow on the front of the card. But on the inside of the card in swooping blue ink, Nell Wiseman wrote, Im so proud of your accomplishment. I won a journalism award a couple months ago, and Mrs. Wiseman -- one of my high school English teachers more than 16 years ago -- got my address from my mom and sent me a card. I called her to say thank you. We regularly traded Christmas cards, but it had been years since I talked to her. She instantly sounded as bubbly and full of energy as she did that first day sitting in her classroom when I was 18. That made it all the more startling to hear a week ago about her having a stroke. But she was a fighter. I thought -- hoped -- shed get through this. She fought for a week, but during the afternoon of Tuesday, Oct. 10, she passed away at the hospital in Springfield, Illinois. A constant at Charleston High School for more than 50 years was gone. Her first year teaching English at CHS was 1959, the same year John Knowles published my favorite book A Separate Peace. When I entered her class in 2000, she was the first teacher in the district to treat students like adults. By that time, she only taught seniors, and she gave students a freedom similar to a college class. If you werent there or you were late, it was your fault and your loss. She didnt take attendance. But dont misconstrue freedom for not caring. She wanted to help students love writing. She encouraged each student to write about topics of interest to them. She did it without rigidity. Spontaneously, she would take classes outside for the day, and she would be hard to keep up with as she led the class down the stairs to go outside. There was abundant vitality packed into her 5-foot-4 stature. When I talked to her five weeks ago, she told me that she had told her current class of high school students -- yep, she had started her 59th school year at CHS -- about my award and how they can strive to succeed. That meant a lot because this award was the 2017 LGBTQ Journalist of the Year. She wasnt just telling her students you can succeed at writing and be from a small town in Illinois. She was telling her students that you can be LGBTQ and successful. What a powerful message to share with her final class of students. I hope they realize how lucky they were to experience her wild, bubbly, energetic, spontaneous classroom. I know that I feel lucky. 3-year-old Christian girl who loved God 'with all her heart' drowns in grease pit at ice cream shop Sadie Grace Andrews, a 3-year-old Christian girl who loved to pray and regularly attended the popular Church of the Highlands with her family, tragically drowned Saturday after she fell into a grease pit while playing at a local ice cream shop in Alabama. 'She had more faith than any child I've ever seen and I'm not just saying that because she was my child,' the girl's mother, Corrie Andrews, who has five surviving children with her husband, Tracy, told AL.com. 'She would come sit on my lap and sing 'Be Still My Soul.' Her favorite song was 'Jesus Loves Me.'' 'Her name means 'God's thoughtful princess',' Corrie continued as she wept. 'And she really was that ... always expressing gratefulness and love for God and other people. She would light up a room with her smile; she walked with a skip in her step. I've never met a more joyful child who loved God with all her heart.' Local police who have ruled the child's death an accident told AL.com that video evidence shows the little girl, Sadie Grace Andrews, playing with two of her siblings at Bruster's Real Ice Cream on East University Drive, when she fell through a lid covering a six-foot deep grease pit on the property. Along with her parents, Sadie leaves behind five siblings Sabrina, 7; Piper, 6; Cason, 4; and twins Ryder and Judson, who will turn 2 next month. Sadie's grieving maternal uncle, Chad Vermillion, noted on a YouCaring campaign on Sunday that the death of his niece was 'a big loss.' 'Sadie was my personal joy and we had the most special relationship in the world. This is a big loss but I am thanking the creator for his genius and creativity in making such a distinct, joyful soul full of so much life. She added so much to my life,' Vermillion wrote. Sadie's siblings, he said, had also been hit particularly hard by her death. 'Cason is internalizing grief, didn't eat, and threw up. Sabrina and Piper are asking lots of questions. Piper wanted to know what they would do with Sadie's things, like her blanket which she had to have every day. But miraculously, God began to prepare Corrie this morning,' he said. 'Sadie put her blankie in a plastic bag and told Corrie that she was going to give it away. When Corrie asked why, she said that she was a big girl. Corrie clarified, 'so you don't need it anymore?' Sadie said, 'No,'' he wrote. He explained that the family spent 45 minutes trying to find Sadie when they first realized she was missing. Corrie, he said, told him that the ice cream shop has an outdoor picnic table near a large sewer opening covered by a wooden top. 'The wooden top turned out to be rotten; Sadie fell thru; that's why it took 45 min. to find her,' he explained. Late Sunday night, the owners of the ice cream shop, Lance and Kara Latham, released a statement, calling the family "acquaintances of ours" and said they were "heartbroken" about Sadie's death. 'As the owner of the Auburn Bruster's, our deepest condolences go to the family of the child who tragically died Saturday. They are acquaintances of ours and have been regular customers. We are truly heartbroken that this happened,' the couple wrote. 'Our thoughts also are with our young crewmember who tried to revive the child. Like all of us, he is quite shaken. The entire Bruster's family is horribly saddened by this tragic accident. We continue to help local authorities investigate what caused this incredibly sad accident. We hope everyone in the community also will keep the family in their thoughts and prayers,' they added. Despite his grief, Tracy Andrews said he was happy for his daughter's life because Sadie taught him to be happy and loving. 'I'm just so thankful for the three years we had with her,' he said. 'She taught me about being happy and loving life and loving people. At 3 years old, there's no preconceived notions. To her, everybody was good. She didn't see the bad. She just loved people and it didn't matter what they did.' Vermillion, who is a father of four, added 'a mother and dad should never have to bury their child.' He urged others to forgive and show love as life has proven to be too short and too fleeting to keep a grudge. 'Life is way too short to hold onto grudges or things you might be harboring against anybody else,' he said. 'You don't know how much time you have with the people you love.' This article was originally published in The Christian Post. Abortion row between Catholic hierarchy and The Tablet escalates as another Bishop wades in The row over abortion between the English Catholic Church heirarchy and a respected Catholic journal has escalated this week after a bishop said that Catholics including on newspapers cannot claim to be true to their faith if they question Church teaching on the issue. Last week, Christian Today reported how bishops were dismayed by an editorial published in The Tablet on 13 September entitled, 'Restricting abortion: Catholic teaching sets bar too high'. The leading article, which came after the rightwing Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg said he opposed all terminations including in rape cases, argued that the Church 'comes close to having no position at all, or at least none that has any relevance either to law-making or to the lives of real people'. The Bishop of Shrewsbury Mark Davies told Christian Today: 'Sadly there are journals which use the name "Catholic" but are not reliable guides to the faith and teaching of the Catholic Church...No Catholic Christian could sincerely claim that this teaching is unclear or irrelevant to law-making or the moral choices made in the lives of people today. Now, in a blog post first reported by the Catholic Herald, Bishop Michael Campbell of Lancaster said abortion was a 'foundational issue', adding: 'Sadly, the price of admission into mainstream British life has meant that we somehow keep the Catholic brand name and tribal loyalty, but are content to live a mix of nostalgia and generic good will and "keep our heads down" in the public sphere'. Bishop Campbell added: 'Some Catholics including some periodicals and newspapers who claim to use that name seem simply embarrassed by the abortion issue. 'The abortion struggle gets in the way of their natural political alliances. Others don't really agree with the Church's teaching, or don't accept the personhood of the unborn child. Others just want a respectable way to explain away this issue and get on with what they regard as the 'real' work of the Church!' As Britain approaches the 50th anniversary of the Abortion Act in November, the bishop went on to argue, Catholics must remember opposition to abortion is integral to the faith. 'There's no way around it. It's the cornerstone issue for any society because it deals with the most basic human right of all the right to life.' The Tablet's leader said that the Church's teaching 'would logically involve handing out long prison sentences not just to the doctors and nurses involved but to the women herself and in every case, including if the termination of the pregnancy occurred the day after it started'. Davies responded by saying: 'It would be especially tragic in this anniversary year which marks the destruction of 8 million human lives since 1967 that anyone would seek to obscure the witness of Christian teaching to the value of every human life.' The Auxilary Bishop of Westminster, John Sherrington, has also complained, writing to The Tablet last week to say the Church's position is 'not unrealistic but can help to better protect the child in the womb and are relevant to lawmaking and the lives of all people of goodwill'. But Brendan Walsh, the editor of The Tablet, hit back at the criticism, saying that the bishops are 'in a bit of a bind'. He told Christian Today last week: 'The sanctity of the life of the unborn is one of the cornerstones of our beliefs as Catholics. Our leader in the issue of September 16 sympathised with the position of the Catholic MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, who personally opposes abortion in even the most difficult of circumstances, but has said he would not try to impose his views on others. It's a position that attracted considerable hostility, but was also widely understood and respected, and could even be the start of a helpful conversation about life issues. 'The Catholic bishops it seems to me are in a bit of a bind. They want to celebrate and protect every human life, from the moment of conception. But if they hold fast to the view that women should not be allowed the right to choose an abortion under any circumstances, the Catholic voice is less likely to be listened to.' The row reflects major divides in British Catholic's social views as research reveals the Church's staunch opposition to any termination is not held by most of the faithful. The 2016 British Social Attitudes survey found 61 per cent of British Catholics agree 'the law should allow an abortion if the woman decides...she does not wish to have a child'. The research represents a dramatic shift since 2012 when just 39 per cent supported a women's right to abortion and 33 per cent in 1985. But despite this view from the laity, the official position of the Church is still firmly against terminations. 'Designated Survivor' season 2 episode 4 spoilers: President Kirkman faces growing tension between U.S. and Mexico In the next episode of "Designated Survivor," President Tom Kirkman (Kiefer Sutherland) is faced with a scandal at the southern border where a Mexican citizen is shot and killed. This was brought about by a border dispute regarding a shipment of Mexican trade imports. It is likely that the Mexican was shot by a U.S. border agent who sensed danger from him. A truck is shown crashing into the gate at the border which caused the surrounding people to take cover. It seems this is the catalyst of the tension. Nevertheless, the president has to try and appease the situation with Mexico. "We can't treat our neighbors as enemies," he says with conviction. Meanwhile, a conspiracy is brewing where investigators find out that the president's mother-in-law may have been involved in a crime. FBI agent Hannah Wells (Maggie Q) tells First Lady Alex Kirkman (Natascha McElhone) that they have circumstantial evidence that her mother is a criminal. Another investigator tells the president, "Whatever you're mixed up in, your hands better be clean because even this place can't protect you." In the last episode, Tom raced against the clock to help several people who got infected with a deadly flu virus. A pharmaceutical company had the potential cure for the virus but the head executive wanted to sell the life-saving drugs to another distributor. This would cause a delay and many lives could be lost. The president decided to play hardball and asked Rev. Tramer Dale (Ron Canada) to publicly ridicule the drug company in order to force them to hand the drugs over to the government. In the end, the people were able to get the medicine and started to recover from the deadly flu. The drug company was commended for their cooperation and patriotism. "Designated Survivor" season 2 episode 4 will air on Wednesday, Oct. 18 at 10 p.m. EDT on ABC. From Zoar to Moriah: 6 church names with a biblical meaning Churches in much of Britain tend to have very dull names. Anglicans and Catholics name theirs after saints, and unless they are particularly quirky (St Erkenbrand, anyone?) it's hard to be enthusiastic about them. The older Nonconformist churches are even worse Anytown Baptist Church or Anonymous Street Methodist just don't cut it. There's one corner of these islands, though, where the naming of churches was once practised as a fine art. That corner is Wales, where during the 19th and early 20th centuries there was an explosion of chapel-building. Many of them in those green valleys, sadly, stand empty there were too many of them in the first place and it all got a bit competitive but their names are a testament to a rich scriptural culture, and they say something important about what went on inside. Here are six common names, with their biblical origins. 1. Moriah Named after the mountain where Abraham went to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice (Genesis 22). Naming a church Moriah was an expression of dedication and a call to commitment: every Sunday, we go up to Moriah too. Moriah is also where David offered a sacrifice to end the plague God had sent on the people (2 Samuel 24). So it stands for God's mercy and preservation. 2. Nebo In modern-day Jordan, Mount Nebo is the place where Moses went to view the Promised Land before his death (Deuteronomy 34:1-4). He would see it, but not enter it. Calling a church Nebo is an expression of hope in God's future - we don't yet have all that we have been promised, but God is faithful. It also evokes a powerful commitment to evangelism: outside the church doors is the Promised Land that God's people will inhabit. 3. Salem Salem is associated with word for 'peace', 'shalom', and is another name for Jerusalem. It's mentioned in Genesis 14:18, where Melchizedek 'King of Salem' brings out bread and wine after Abraham's victory. In Psalm 76:2 it says of God: 'His tent is in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion.' A church named Salem is a place where God dwells. 4. Shiloh Shiloh is the place where the Ark of the Covenant remained for hundreds of years, the centre for Israelite worship before the Temple was built. It was in Shiloh that the boy Samuel first heard God speaking to him (1 Samuel 3) and responded, 'Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.' A church named Shiloh is a place where the people listen for the voice of God, and respond with obedience. 5. Zoar Zoar was a small city on the 'plain of Jordan', like Sodom and Gomorrah. When they were destroyed by fire (Genesis 19) Zoar alone was spared as a refuge for Lot and his family. Naming a church Zoar says something about the fragility of the world and how the church is a refuge from its hardships and wickedness. 6. Peniel The word means 'face of God' and is sometimes spelt Penuel. When Jacob wrestles with the angel in Genesis 32, he names the place Peniel: 'It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared' (verse 30). In churches called Peniel, people wrestle with God and seek his face. Follow Mark Woods on Twitter: @RevMarkWoods Microsoft Surface Book 2 release date news, specs rumors: Surface line to end in 2019? The Microsoft Surface Book 2 is one of the much-awaited premium laptop updates from the Redmond-based tech giant. However, latest reports hint that Microsoft may just decide to wrap up the Surface device series, thus also spelling an end to the hybrid laptop's follow-up. As reported by Tech Radar, there is a growing chance that the Microsoft Surface Book 2 will no longer be released. It is speculated that Microsoft will stop the production of Surface hardware starting in 2019. The rumored demise of Surface series came from Canalys Cannels Forum's analyst, Steve Brazier, who claimed that Microsoft will give up the Surface family as a cost-cutting measure. According to Register, Brazier believed that Microsoft's hybrid Surface netbooks may end up with the same fate as the company's Windows smartphones. To note, Microsoft has also announced the end of their Windows 10 mobile hardware and software support. "The Surface performance is choppy; there are good quarters and bad quarters, overall they are not making money. It doesn't make sense for them to be in this business," Brazier stated. He also noted that Microsoft is raking in profit with their software products. In terms of the income from Surface devices, it seems that the company is not reaching its target. Even so, there is still hope that Microsoft will launch the major Surface Book update before the Surface family is put down altogether. According to an insider report, Microsoft is still planning to release the Surface Book 2, but the shipment of the next-gen 2-in-1 laptops will not happen until early 2018. Microsoft will be holding a special hardware event in London on Oct. 31 called the "Future Decoded," which is believed to be the keynote event where the latest Surface devices will be launched. However, it is not expected that the Surface Book 2 will be present during the said hardware showcase. Rumor has it that Microsoft will fix the hinge issue raised by the first Surface Book users. Also, the Surface Book 2 is expected to have its keyboard to be more easily detachable. The display of the Microsoft Surface Book 2 will highlight a 4K screen with 3840 x 2160-pixel resolution. The screen display will include VP9 and HEV 10-bit decode for high-quality graphics. The Microsoft Surface Book 2 is likely to receive the eighth-generation Intel laptop processor. It will sport USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 3 ports. Mike Pence wants to 'hang' all gay people, according to Donald Trump Donald Trump said that his Vice President, Mike Pence, 'wants to hang them all' while joking about gay people, according to a profile of Pence in the respected journal the New Yorker. Trump continually chides Pence for his religious views and asks people who had met with Pence, 'did Mike make you pray?' according to the magazine's reporter Jane Mayer. The profile paints Pence as deeply conservative compared to Trump. At the same meeting with a legal scholar during which the 'hang them all' comment was made, the group reportedly spoke about Roe v Wade - the Supreme Court decision legalising abortion across the US. The legal scholar argued that attempts to overturn the decision were pointless, as states would simply legalise abortion on their own. 'You see? Trump said to Pence. 'You've wasted all this time and energy on it, and it's not going to end abortion anyway.' The New Yorker profile says: 'A staff member from Trump's campaign recalls him mocking Pence's religiosity. He said that, when people met with Trump after stopping by Pence's office, Trump would ask them, "Did Mike make you pray?" Two sources also recalled Trump needling Pence about his views on abortion and homosexuality. During a meeting with a legal scholar, Trump belittled Pence's determination to overturn Roe v Wade. The legal scholar had said that, if the Supreme Court did so, many states would likely legalize abortion on their own. "You see?" Trump asked Pence. "You've wasted all this time and energy on it, and it's not going to end abortion anyway." When the conversation turned to gay rights, Trump motioned toward Pence and joked, "Don't ask that guyhe wants to hang them all!"' Pence, who is a cradle Catholic turned evangelical, invites staffers to pray with him at weekly meetings. He holds regular meetings on Capitol Hill with Ralph Drollinger, the highly conservative founder of Capitol Ministries. Pence voted against the repeal of 'Don't Ask Don't Tell,' a law preventing gay people from serving openly in the military, and has been accused of supporting gay 'conversion therapy'. Pence is also strongly opposed to gay marriage and campaigns to allow religious bodies to refuse to serve same-sex couples. In March 2015, controversially, he signed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act into law, allowing businesses to refuse to serve people in certain circumstances over religious beliefs. In an unusual concession, and under pressure from campaigners, he later signed an amendment stating that businesses could not discriminate against gay people. This, in turn, drew criticism from his conservative allies. Last week, Trump addressed the Values Voter Summit for conservative Christians. Before he spoke, attendees were reportedly given pamphlets calling homosexuality a 'public health crisis'. Pastor's daughter kidnapped by Islamist militants in Niger The teenage daughter of a pastor in Niger was kidnapped yesterday by Boko Haram-affiliated militants, according to World Watch Monitor. The abduction appears to be the first deliberate targeting of a Christian by militants in the West African nation, according to the persecution watchdog. Aphodiya Garba Maida, 17, whose father is a pastor with the Eglise Evangelique de la Republique du Niger, was on her way to school in Diffa when she was kidnapped by three women and three men. She sent a message on her mobile to say she was being held in an unknown location. Diffa borders Nigeria to the south and Chad to the east and has been attacked several times by Boko Haram. In July up to 40 women and children were abducted and nine people were murdered, while a month earlier a suicide bomber targeted a UNHCR camp for internally displaced people. Christians are a minority in Niger, where 98 per cent of the population is Muslim. However, relations with Muslims have generally been good, though an upsurge of violence following the Charlie Hebdo cartoon of the prophet Mohammad in 2015 saw more than 70 churches and 30 Christian homes destroyed. According to World Watch Monitor, analysts say the increase in anti-Christian violence is the expression of a growing intolerance in Niger's society, aggravated by the rise of Islamism. Prime Minister backs C of E's battle-plan to tackle 'barbaric crime' of modern slavery The Prime Minister is today backing the launch of a project aimed at mobilising the Church of England's 12,000 parishes in the battle to eradicate modern slavery. Along with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Theresa May welcomed the official launch of the Clewer Initiative, a three-year programme to help the Church of England's 42 dioceses work to support victims of modern slavery and identify the signs of exploitation in their local communities. The project will be launched later today at an event in Lambeth Palace attended by representatives from dioceses and other denominations, along with MPs and charities involved in work to combat modern slavery. May, who has made tackling modern slavery a key part of her government's agenda, said: 'Modern slavery is a barbaric crime which destroys the lives of some of the most vulnerable in our society. I value the work that the Clewer Initiative will be doing to enable the Church of England dioceses and wider church networks to develop strategies to tackle modem slavery. 'In particular, I welcome the focus on engaging with local communities to help them to spot the signs of modem slavery. We need to shine a light on this hidden crime and to encourage more victims to come forward so that we can provide them with the support they need...[The] Government cannot tackle this problem alone and this is why the efforts of organisations and groups such as the Clewer Initiative are so important.' More than 200 years after Britain abolished slavery, there are still an estimated 45.8 million men, women and children trapped in modern slavery, with up to 11,700 potential victims in the UK alone. The launch comes a year after May announced a 33 million boost for the fight against human trafficking and modern slavery, which itself followed the introduction of the Modern Slavery Act in 2015. And it comes, too, in the context of a recent report from the National Crime Agency (NCA) which said that modern slavery is now 'prevalent' across the UK, affecting 'every large town and city in the country'. Figures show that in 2016 the number of cases hit 3,805, with 'modern slaves' coming from 108 different countries, including the UK. The Church pointed out that work is already under way in dioceses, with training and information sessions on how to provide support and identify victims of labour exploitation in areas from the construction and property sector to hand car washes in British cities and shipping. Bath and Wells, Chester, Derby, Durham, Guildford, Lichfield, Liverpool, Portsmouth, Rochester, Southwell and Nottingham dioceses are already taking part with a further 14 dioceses due to sign up later this year. The diocese of Derby has become a key member of the Derby and Derbyshire Modern Slavery Partnership, uniting with police and social services working to help victims. Speaking in a video message, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, encouraged churches to act as 'eyes and ears' in local communities to identify victims. 'Jesus came saying that he proclaimed freedom for captives,' he said. 'Freedom is something that we take for granted, but it is the gift of God, it is the purpose of God. Those who purposefully constrain, confine and traffic and enslave people will face the judgement of God for their terrible sins. 'Yet even more serious is when we choose not to see: when as it were we put on our own blindfolds and don't see those around us who are held in slavery, oppressed, trafficked, in other peoples' power. 'But we can change it - we can change it so easily, so quickly. We can set people free, set our society and nation free from the scourge of slavery simply by removing our blindfolds and acting on what we see." The Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, Kevin Hyland said: 'Faith groups have influence, insight and rare avenues into the community; they are therefore a powerful tool in the fight against modern slavery. 'The Church of England has acted on this unique ability by launching The Clewer Initiative, which adds backbone to the church's anti-slavery approach. Clewer offers important knowledge to leaders of the Church, parish members and the public. By informing those who are in a position to identify and support victims of this brutal crime, I am confident that the Church is living up to its potential in defending the oppressed and overcoming injustice.' The Bishop of Derby, Dr Alastair Redfern, who chairs the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner's Advisory Panel, added: 'Modern slavery is present in nearly every community in England and will continue to flourish if we remain indifferent to it. Churches can provide a space to gather of goodness and grace, with an open agenda where different groups can meet to discuss how they work together to support victims, and to improve efforts for rescue and prevention.' The Clewer Initiative is named after the Clewer House of Mercy, a purpose-built Victorian convent and shelter in Windsor. The Sisters now reside at their new convent in Rippon College, Cuddesdon, and consider The Clewer Initiative part of the legacy of their Order. More information on the Clewer Initiative can be found here: https://www.theclewerinitiative.org/ Woman who fell from St Paul's Whispering Gallery 'loved God but was very sad' The woman who died in a fall from the Whispering Gallery at St Paul's Cathedral last week 'loved God' and was 'the definition of good', according to her grieving family. Lidia Dragescu, 23, from Romania, died when she fell from the 100-foot high gallery. She was holding two letters, one apologising to those who saw her fall and one to her mother Isabela. The note to her mother apologised for upsetting her but said: 'I am doing this for me, to escape. All of the past and the present it makes my head heavy.' Speaking to the Evening Standard, Isabela Dragescu said her daughter had loved St Paul's. 'She was normal, she loved God but she was very sad. She opened up to me about her sadness and sorrows about not fitting into this world.' A talented student who wanted to become a brain surgeon, Lidia ran a website, 'Knowledge is Our Duty', which featured quotes from Einstein and TS Eliot as well as poems she had written. Her mother also revealed she had been reading Dan Brown's thrillers and researching San Francisco's Zodiac Killer because she was 'fascinated by criminal minds'. In a statement her family said: 'Our daughter and sister was the most beautiful person in the world. Her heart was pure and kind, a soul from another world. 'She was an outstanding student and a talented figure skater. Beautiful, intelligent and kind. She would always help me, not allowing me to do any difficult chores. 'Her love for us was beyond measure, she was selfless and kind. Everything that she had she shared with us, always putting us first. We love her and will always love her. 'For Lidia, the world has been a bad place to live in.' 'Wonder Woman 2' release date news update: Gal Gadot adds new project as sequel starts filming next summer Gal Gadot will not be wearing her Amazonian armor until next summer if the latest report is anything to go by. According to Omega Underground, filming for "Wonder Woman 2" will begin in June 2018, and once again, it will be a period piece where Princess Diana will face off against the Soviet Union during the 1980s. No further details were revealed, but this affirms previous rumors that the second installment will take place during the Cold War. The production locations are still under wraps as well, but as far as casting goes, Comic Book claims that Jenkins is already eyeing Chris Pine to return for the sequel. The actor played American spy and Diana's love interest, Steve Trevor. It is unclear how they will pull off his return since Pine's character died in the first film. The publication predicts he may appear through flashbacks or play an entirely different character who is a descendant of the late pilot. Meanwhile, as "Wonder Woman 2" is still very much coming down the pipeline, Gadot may be squeezing in another movie before her next DC project. The Israeli actress is reportedly in negotiations to star in yet another World War II film titled "Ruin." Directed by "Assassin's Creed" helmer Justin Kurtzel, the film follows an ex-Nazi captain who hunts down his former SS squadmates for revenge in the days after the end of World War II. Her role in the film has yet to be revealed, but she may star alongside Christian Bale who is being considered for the lead role. If she boards the project, she could start filming as early as January before she shoots "Wonder Woman 2." The second installment of the DC film is set for release on Dec.13, 2019. Prior to both films, Gadot will appear as Wonder Woman in "Justice League" which arrives on Nov. 17. This event is now sold-out. To register for the waiting list, click here. Incorporating the Charity VAT & Tax, Strategy & Risk and Investment conference streams, the Charity Finance Summit has grown to become the key learning and networking event for charity finance teams in the autumn conference season. We have carefully chosen sector experts who can provide you with relevant insight, informative case studies and compelling seminar sessions. Tickets to the Summit give you the flexibility to select sessions from any conference stream. This means that you can tailor the sessions you or your team attend on the day to ensure you address your charitys needs. Last week, the Columbia University College Republicans hosted a talk by Tommy Robinson, a British anti-Islam campaigner who founded the extreme-right English Defence League in 2009. Robinson spoke to students via Skypehes been banned from the US since he went to jail for entering the country on a friends passport in 2012. His distance didnt stop protesters and reporters from turning up. The campus newspaper, the Columbia Spectator, counted over 30 demonstrators inside Lerner Hall and more than 250 outside. National newspapers and outlets from Germany and Japan were on the scene to watch as protesters wielded signs and chanted while Robinson tried to speak. Others have since picked up the story. The response to Robinson was in many ways unsurprisingthe far-right and free speech are hot topics in the urgent media debate on Americas open wounds. ICYMI: She identified herself as a reporter. He then walked behind her and punched her But now wind back a year. In an almost identical Skype address to the College Republicans at Columbia last October, Robinson waxed uninterrupted for an hour about how Islam promotes violence and cannot assimilate into British culture. When he called the Prophet Muhammad a barbarian, he was applauded, not jeered. A handful of pointed questions (including one from this reporter) followed his speech, but there were no banners or protests, and few raised voices. Although Robinson had no problem being heard in the room, his voice wasnt amplified beyond Columbias walls. This year, a university media handler guided registered press to designated seats; last year there were no such arrangementsand no pressto be seen. It might just be a fluke that last years Robinson event didnt cross reporters desks. But that they showed up this year probably says less about Robinsons words than it does an increased likelihood of a hostile response to those words. Were taking marginal events and shining a spotlight on them, and in this way viralizing them. Sign up for weekly emails from the United States Project There is growing interest in these types of protests, not necessarily because of what the speakers are saying, but because of how students are reacting, says Toni Airaksinen, a senior at Columbias partner college, Barnard, who covered the event for the conservative college news site Campus Reform. The media wouldnt really be as interested in these campus events with conservative speakers unless there are protests. The election of Donald Trump didnt invent student activism, even if it did give it a shot in the arm. Media attention, however, has intensified since Robinson spoke to Columbia students a year ago. Some news organizations forget that campus conflagration is nothing newseeing instead an all-too-easy metaphor for the groaning tensions in the country as a whole. Many of these same things were happening on campuses all along and nobody was particularly worried about them, says Sigal Ben-Porath, a professor of education at the University of Pennsylvania. Right now, they draw a lot more attention because they are supposed to represent changes in the general public debate, which I think is misguided. Were taking marginal events and shining a spotlight on them, and in this way viralizing them. Trump, the rise of the alt-right, and the scarring aftermath of the fatal white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, have lent campus clashes a media-ready viciousness and broader cultural relevance. In February, violence roiled UC Berkeley in response to a planned speech by far-right troll Milo Yiannopoulos. A month later, students at Middlebury College in Vermont shut down a talk by the controversial political scientist Charles Murray. And earlier this month, the Virginia director of the American Civil Liberties Union was hounded off-stage at the College of William and Mary, curtailing an address about free speech. We saw the same thing [as the Robinson phenomenon] at Berkeley, writes Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of Berkeleys law school and coauthor of Free Speech on Campus, in an email. Last year, [conservative commentator] Ben Shapiro spoke with no attention at all. This year, it took $600,000 of protection. I think the Trump election has caused everything to be more polarized. The Robinson appearance touches on a deep divide in journalism when it comes to covering the more offensive fringes of the right under Trump: Do such views demand attention because of their apparent ascendancy in the country, or is the coverage itself responsible for spreading their appeal? Approaching this question through the lens of student protests doesnt resolve it; if anything it paints a one-sided picture. The debate over who can say what on a campus is more complicated than the alt-right phenomenon and camera pans of garish placards and leftright screaming matches. Its probably not news every time Murray or Ann Coulter shows up for a college talk. But it is noteworthy when a mainstream college club like the Columbia Republicans repeatedly solicits a fringe figure like Robinsonwho is virtually unknown in the US, and who last weekend rushed to the scene of a London road traffic accident to make a video suggesting the driver, who was black, was a Muslim convert. The targets of hateful rhetoric, on whose behalf the free speech debate is supposedly weighed, are affected regardless of whether protesters showand they often dont. For every event that draws angry mass action and a national media response, many more pass without incident. Charles Murray has spoken at more colleges where he wasnt interrupted than where he was, says Scott Jaschik, editor of college news website Inside Higher Ed. Thats not news. Protest draws people in. For every event that draws angry mass action and a national media response, many more pass without incident. The atmosphere around controversial speakers on campus is febrile but also unpredictable, which poses a challenge for those on the higher education beat. The campus climate now is such that you never know if something is going to blow up, says Sarah Brown, a reporter at The Chronicle of Higher Education. Universities are affected by this uncertainty, and I think so are we. We send a reporter to far-away college campuses and have to accept the fact that its possible nothing will happen. ICYMI: 7 quick tips for conducting tough interviews Every good story hinges on tension; the easier it is to illustrate, the better and clearer the story. And there are new and difficult issues for the media to parse behind the vivid excitement of shouting matches and fist fights. Brown, for example, is interested in the breakdown in dialogue and understanding of the First Amendment between students on opposing sides of the political spectrum, while Inside Higher Ed is focusing its reporting on controversial proposed punishments for students who shout down speakers. But we shouldnt lead readers to believe that censorious, balaclava-clad leftists are suddenly lurking at college gates to chase away any right-of-center figure who dares show. Outlets like Breitbartwhich said Robinson was shut down by the alt-left last weekuse this type of campus caricature to undergird claims of a broader culture war. Its a time-weathered tactic, used to potent effect by Ronald Reagan when he was governor of California in response to Vietnam-era college activism. The press should be wary of amplifying flashpoints that match Trumps own intolerant left narrative. Division is real, both in American society and on college campuses. But that doesnt mean it manifests the same way across issues; theres no single standard uniting the politics of immigration, police brutality, and university speech. The press should focus not on how snugly campus unrest fits the national mood, but on whether and how they reflect trends in higher education. When we selectively cover protests, we blind ourselves to the full complexity of the college picture and risk reinforcing hacky-sack stereotypes of college students. As Airaksinen, who reported Robinsons recent Columbia talk for Campus Reform, notes, Theres a large population of older, mostly male Americans who like to look at whats happening on college campuses and laugh at what the kids are doing these days. ICYMI: Former gossip columnist says theres one fact about his past relationship with Trump thats tough to admit 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. Margaret Sullivan worries that President Trumps constant press attacks have a price. They hurt Americas ability to stand for democratic freedoms around the world, she writes this week in The Washington Post. While Trump draws attention for his threats to outlets like NBC or The New York Times, a series of recent reports show that the real danger to journalists comes from governments that allow a culture of impunity to exist. Daphne Caruana Galizia, the 53-year-old journalist who led the Panama Papers investigation into corruption in Malta, was killed yesterday by a car bomb minutes after she posted her final blog post. Galizias writing on her blog often drew more readers than the combined circulation of the countrys newspapers, reports The Guardians Juliette Garside, and her posts often targeted officials in the highest positions of power in her country. My mother was assassinated because she stood between the rule of law and those who sought to violate it, like many strong journalists, Galizias son wrote in a Facebook post. ICYMI: She identified herself as a reporter. He then walked behind her and punched her In Turkey, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has overseen a crackdown against press freedoms in the wake of a failed coup attempt last year, Wall Street Journal reporter Ayla Albayrak was convicted in absentia last week on terrorism charges, and was sentenced to more than two years in prison. Albayrak, who was in New York at the time of the trial, said that her case showed that the international media is not immune to the ongoing press crackdown in Turkey. Closer to home, the threats to journalists have not resulted in death or long prison sentences, but arrests and physical attacks are disturbingly prevalent. In a piece for CJR, Peter Sterne and Jonathan Peters write that the most dangerous place to practice journalism in America is at a protest. Sterne, the managing editor of the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker, and Peters, CJRs press freedom correspondent, report that 15 of the 21 physical attacks on journalists this year were at protests or rallies. The authors attribute at least some of the responsibility for a concerning climate to Donald Trumps aggressive anti-press rhetoric, writing, with his near-daily denouncements of the press, the president has helped normalize abuses against journalists by ordinary people. ICYMI: The story behind one of the best reported pieces of the year Sign up for CJR 's daily email Below, more on the threats to journalists and press freedom in the US and overseas. A political force of nature: Late last year, Politico called Galizia a one-woman Wikileaks in praising her dogged pursuit of corruption in Malta. Late last year, Politico called Galizia a one-woman Wikileaks in praising her dogged pursuit of corruption in Malta. WSJ response: Wall Street Journal Editor in Chief Gerard Baker condemned Albayraks sentence, saying in a statement: This was an unfounded criminal charge and wildly inappropriate conviction that wrongly singled out a balanced Wall Street Journal Wall Street Journal Editor in Chief Gerard Baker condemned Albayraks sentence, saying in a statement: This was an unfounded criminal charge and wildly inappropriate conviction that wrongly singled out a balanced Wall Street Journal The situation at home: The U.S. Press Freedom Tracker has documented 31 arrests and 29 physical attacks of journalists in America this year. Other notable stories Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Pete Vernon is a former CJR staff writer. Follow him on Twitter @ByPeteVernon. A DECADE OR SO AGO, when the Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News had no strong digital presence, and their parent company was in the early stages of a bruising saga of ownership disputes, bankruptcy, and layoffs, Philly.com was dominated by the kind of lurid, clickable content that serves a business model based on digital advertising. At the time, the three brands were owned in common and managed separately. And while Philly.com published stories from the two newspapers, its prevailing mission was distinct from theirs. So when the three newsrooms merged two years ago, around the time that owner Gerry Lenfest donated the company to a new nonprofit foundation, a rethinking of the digital operation was long overdue. Last month, Philly.comthe website that publishes stories from the citys two remaining dailies, the Inquirer and Daily Newsbegan selling digital subscriptions and limiting access to 10 free articles per month. Users who sign up for a digital subscription will pay $0.99 for the first four weeks of access, and $2.99 a week thereafter. A digital subscription also now comes standard with home delivery of the Inquirer, and promises some premium content that nonsubscribers cant access. A revolutionary experiment for the digital age it is not. As of the summer of 2015, at least three quarters of the biggest newspaper companies in the United States were using some type of digital subscription model, according to the American Press Institute. And Philadelphia Media Network, which owns the Inquirer, Daily News, and Philly.com, has been promising that a meter was coming since at least two years ago, when PMN merged its three newsrooms amid a round of layoffs. But the companys basic subscription model masks complicated changes taking place behind the scenes. PMN began overhauling its newsroom this past spring as part of an effort to win over a critical mass of digital subscribers. More than 200 journalists reapplied for their jobs, and the news organization conceived a new set of beats meant to align its reporting with what it expects will interest modern audiences. The company also has taken steps to remake Philly.com as a fitting platform for the newspapers journalism and a web product worth paying forwhich, not so long ago, would have been unthinkable. There was a sense not only that the website needed improvements but that the companys whole approach to news should be refreshed, company executives and newsroom leaders tell CJR Sign up for weekly emails from the United States Project WE KNEW THAT IN THE NOT-TOO-DISTANT FUTURE we would be putting up a meter and asking people to pay, and that there was a disconnect between the expectation that a lot of people would do that and what we were like, editorially, at the time, says Patrick Kerkstra, the newsrooms managing editor for digital content and a former Inquirer reporter who was hired back last year after a stint as editor of Philadelphia magazine. We wanted to de-emphasize commodity content that you could find at any number of local websites for free, and that you would continue to find for free after our meter went up, says Kerkstra. (Full disclosure: I have worked with Kerkstra and consider him a friend. I have also freelanced for PMN on occasion.) There was a sense not only that the website needed improvements but that the companys whole approach to news should be refreshed, company executives and newsroom leaders tell CJR. The traditional practice of assigning reporters to geographical beats, or providing incremental coverage of municipal politics, wasnt going to serve the digital audience PMN hoped to attract. So the company has tried to reorganize the newsroom thematically, to get at stories that would attract a cross-section of its coverage area. I know what a terrible reputation this commenting community has. Im hoping to play a role in making it less toxic, and making it a place where people feel like there is actually constructive dialogue, where people are making connections. Our readership has to reflect the region, and it doesnt, says Gabriel Escobar, editor of the combined newsroomwhose demographics, it should also be noted, do not reflect the diversity of the region. We have loyal readers. We have avid readers. We want loyal and avid readers in greater numbers, but we also want representative readership of the region, and it isnt there. And it isnt there for complicated reasons. Its not surprising that print subscribers tend to be older, but the readership on Philly.com is older and more male than the region as well, according to Kim Fox, the managing editor for audience. Readers have complained about the user experience on Philly.com for a long timea Philadelphia magazine writer once described it as a cluttered, unattractive afterthoughtand the animated digital ads on its articles were disruptive long before news readers everywhere came to expect those kinds of distractions. But nothing hangs on the Philly.com brand as heavily as the long-unmoderated comments section, which has earned its notoriety as the Delaware Valleys premier hangout for racist web trolls. I know what a terrible reputation this commenting community has, Fox says. Im hoping to play a role in making it less toxic, and making it a place where people feel like there is actually constructive dialogue, where people are making connections. The subscription meterdont call it a paywall, as Jim Friedlich, CEO of the Lenfest Institute, which owns the company, gently admonished mehas cut down on the comments sections most egregious back-and-forth shitposting by limiting the amount of commentary a nonsubscriber can post, Fox says. But its also curtailed web traffic more significantly than the company anticipated: pageviews were down 27 percent in the month after the meter went up, newsroom leaders confirmed. On the other hand, around 9,000 new digital subscribers have joined in the same period, outpacing their early targets by a factor of four. Executive Editor Stan Wischnowski told me that, long term, the company hopes to rival the Boston Globe for digital subscriptions; the Globe has more than any other regional paper in the country, with around 85,000. To get there, PMN is pushing to improve its digital products, with a series of new email newslettersa politics dispatch called Trumpadelphia, for example, and a weekly roundup of food news and restaurant criticismalong with an expansion of the online opinion section, more experimentation with topical events, and some ambitious forays into civic convening. One of the things weve tried to do is quality over quantity all across the board, says Fox. Our job is to make sure that the best journalism gets as many eyes as possible Its really easy to throw up links all day long, but were starting to think about making sure that were sharing our best journalism at the best times with the best people in a more focused way. Thats something of a sea change for Philly.com, and all the reporters I spoke to in the newsroom seem to welcome it. But even a revolution in digital quality cant answer a few fundamental questions about the companys future. PHILADELPHIA MEDIA NETWORK IS THE UMBRELLA for three different brands: the Inquirer, Daily News, and Philly.com. Historically, the three newsrooms were competitivewith a sprinkling of antagonism, depending on when you peeked under the curtain, Escobar saysand each product has its own associated strengths and weaknesses. Even though the newsroom merger has gone more smoothly than many expected, theres still the question of what, specifically, the company is asking subscribers to pay for. The company is increasingly leaning on the Inquirer as its lead brandthe Inquirer flag now sits higher and larger than either of the other logos on the websiteand executives acknowledged that thats likely to continue. There have been discussions about moving to an Inquirer.com URL, but newsroom leaders wont say when exactly that might happen. And nobody seems to know what that would mean for Philly.comwhich, as several reporters noted, rolls off the tongue a little more smoothly. (Under previous ownership, the company experimented with separate websites for each product, but the Inquirer and Daily News were both paywalled, while Philly.com kept publishing most of the stories from both papers for free, and the whole thing flamed out rather quickly. It was not well executed, and we would never return to something like that, Wischnowski tells me.) The other big question is the same one that all newsrooms face: How to make a dollar? In PMNs case, it really is only a dollar, as publisher Terry Egger has said numerous times. The last ownership dispute at the papers was settled in 2014, when Gerry Lenfest, an 87-year-old philanthropist and former cable-TV mogul, won a bid for the company, in partnership with fellow businessman Lewis Katz. Katz died in a plane crash just days after the auction, and Lenfest later donated the papers to a new nonprofit foundation, which he also endowed with $20 million to invest in both PMN and the news ecosystem around the city. The Lenfest Institute announced its first round of investments in mid-September, with $1 million dedicated to new initiatives at PMN and another $1 million going to outside efforts. The grants to PMN will go toward investigative news, digital improvements, and fellowships for reporters from diverse backgrounds. Even after the buyout announcement, reporters seemed slightly warmed by the fact that this time, new hires focused on the digital side are being announced alongside the cuts. Its bad news seasoned with some half-decent news. The nonprofit ownership structure has taken the pressure off the company to turn profits and in some ways improved morale among reporters, whose labor is no longer being used to shore up a hedge fund or enrich a wealthy tycoon. But it has done nothing to solve the underlying crisis: Advertising revenue is still falling fast enough that even a perpetually downsized newsroom with no profit imperative is not stable yet. And there is a strong sense across the newsroom that any attempt to restructure beats and rebrand the product is superficial without more meaningful efforts to create a more diverse editorial staff. Even with the infusion of Lenfest grants, the company cant make the investments it wants to make without cutting back somewhere else, says publisher Terry Egger. I think well have a little bit more rough stuff, Egger says, because the plans that are in the works now do call for some areas we need to invest and some areas we may need to disinvest, cut back. THE ROUGHT STUFF DROPPED two weeks after we spoke. In early October, a memo signed by Wischnowski, Escobar, and Kerkstra went out to the newsroom, announcing another round of buyouts. The company is hoping 30 to 35 newsroom employees will take the buyoutthe last best chance for staffers considering a life change, retirement or different career, they wroteor else there will be layoffs. Unlike some previous buyout offers, virtually everyone in the newsroom is eligible, not just those who have reached a certain age or length of employment. The cuts are targeted at the copy desk, with plans to eliminate at least two job categories in the process. Hard choices must be made as we grapple with the economic realities and the changing nature of our industry, the memo says, in language that must ring painfully familiar to anyone whos read a newsroom memo in the past dozen years. We have an editing and print production structure that can no longer effectively serve our changing needs. And we have some reporters, columnists and editors who have not adapted to the demands of digital publishing. The reporters I spoke with said the buyout offerthe scale of it, in particulartook the newsroom by surprise. Like any staff reduction, its demoralizing. People are anxious. Howard Gensler, president of the Newspaper Guild Local 10, said he had no idea it was coming until the morning it was announced. When you have a lot of managers whose jobs depend on reorganization and declaring victory over everything, you get a lot of memos saying how great things are, Gensler said. And then you get a memo a week later saying, Weve gotta reduce the staff by 35 people. Asked whether he accepts the framing of the current buyoutpart of a digital investment strategy, rather than a simple cost-cutting measureGensler replied, I bet they think that. Everybodys got to look at themselves in the mirror. So PMN is not out of the woodsand it may never be, so long as print advertising provides a substantial piece of its revenue. (Its still cheapest to get unlimited digital access by subscribing to the Sunday Inquirer, presumably to keep its circulation numbers up.) But even after the buyout announcement, reporters seemed slightly warmed by the fact that this time, new hires focused on the digital side are being announced alongside the cuts. Its bad news seasoned with some half-decent news, which may count as a small miracle in a newsroom accustomed to bad on bad. And everyone CJR talked to for this story said that if nothing else, the ownership structure feels stable, which could give the company a chance to catch up. We were starting from way behind, and there were a couple of contributing factors, said Escobar. The primary one is that we were three, that there was dysfunctional ownership history, conflict. When you have that as your daily reality, the greatest impact is that you cannot plan. You cant be strategic. You cant be current. You cant constantly assess what others are doing and what you should be doing. One byproduct of the recent changes is that the company seems to be integrating with the rest of the local journalism community in a way it could never manage to do before. Ever since the digital crisis began, journalists and funders have been brooding over how to foster a news ecosystem in Philadelphia that can sustain itself financially while serving the public interest. The problem they were hoping to address, in some ways, was PMN itself: the Inquirer and Daily News were shedding staff continuously and competing with each other in all the wrong ways, while Philly.com was busy chasing whatever pageviews it could find. Experiments to fill the journalistic gaps have been varied. Some have failed, while others, like Billy Penn, the Philadelphia Citizen, and a small network of niche sites, are still trying to figure it out. It would be glib to suggest that Philly.com is now poised to lead the city into a new golden age of digital journalism. But for the first time in many years, maybe ever, it looks like it could at least be part of the solution. Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Jared Brey is a freelance journalist in Philadelphia and a contributing writer at Next City. His work has appeared in Philadelphia magazine, Grid magazine, PlanPhilly, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and other publications. Joseph Bernsteins deep investigation of the inner workings of the alt-right, published October 5, was a groundbreaking look at how former Breitbart figurehead Milo Yiannopoulos, with the help of Steve Bannon, imported white nationalist and neo-Nazi ideas into mainstream political discourse. Relying primarily on a trove of emails he acquired from an undisclosed source, Bernstein, a senior technology reporter for BuzzFeed News, reconstructed the behind-the-scenes process by which Yiannopoulos solicited editorial advice from radical right-wing ideologues like Curtis Yarvin, who goes by Mencius Moldbug, and Andrew Weev Auernheimer, an infamous hacker associated with The Daily Stormer. The 8,500-word article, which MSNBCs Chris Hayes praised as one of the best reported pieces of the year, was the result of months of research, collation, corroboration, and legal scrutiny. But Bernsteins heaping scoopthe envy, it seemed, of every political journalist on Twitterdidnt emerge out of nowhere. It was the culmination of years of reporting and source-building on a beat that few thought much about until Donald Trump won the presidential election, plotting a now-visible line from Breitbart News, and beyond, to the White House. ICYMI: She identified herself as a reporter. He then walked behind her and punched her Bernstein, 32, is hardly the first reporter to cover online radicalism and its many manifestations. But he was, according to those who diligently follow such coverage, one of the first to take seriously the growing online reactionary movement known as the alt-right. His prescience has paid dividends, particularly as hes pursued Yiannopoulos, one of the most high-profile and inflammatory of alt-right figures, and the mysterious social and financial infrastructures that support Yiannopoulos and his ilk. I think he saw, more clearly than any other reporter on the beat, what an important culture it was, said Ben Smith, BuzzFeeds editor in chief. Bernstein has, in story after story, served as Yiannopouloss most dedicated bete noire. In recent months, for instance, he reviewed a leaked manuscript of Yiannopouloss much-hyped memoir (awful), and published documents that connected the young conservative star with Robert and Rebekah Mercer, the reclusive billionaire benefactors of the radical right who have invested heavily in Breitbart. Sign up for CJR 's daily email With Milo, it was pretty clear to everyone that the Mercers were probably involved somehow, said Will Sommer, an editor for The Hill who writes a weekly newsletter on the conservative media apparatus. The difference is that Joe got the documents that proved it. Bernstein didnt see the beat coming when he joined BuzzFeed as a gaming reporter in 2013, fresh from stints at Kill Screen Media and Popular Science. I thought the internet was for addled teenagers, and I was really kind of snobby about the whole thing, he told me recently at a cafe near BuzzFeeds offices in lower Manhattan. I was disabused of that. What disabused him was Gamergate, the vicious online harassment campaign perpetrated by misogynistic trolls against female video game designers. When Bernstein emerged from reporting on the controversy, he saw a new digital battlefield laid out before him. It was populated by a loose coalition of mostly white, male, internet-savvy reactionaries who had, out of some angry sense of disenfranchisement, created their own online insurgency, ready to feed into a broader political phenomenon such as, say, the Trump movementwhich is exactly what happened. Bernstein drafted a beat memo, shifted focus, and went to work. It wasnt a beat when he started doing it, said Charlie Warzel, a BuzzFeed reporter who often writes about the pro-Trump media and has worked with Bernstein for years. It was more like internet awfulness. *** IN ONE OF THE FIRST stories on his new beat, Bernstein investigated one of the alt-rights most jarring cultural talismans, an anti-Semitic caricature that is popular on imageboard sites like 4chan, originally drawn by a cartoonist pseudonymously referred to as A. Wyatt Mann (sound it out). A lot of people were kind of like, What is he doing? This is weird, Warzel remembered of Bernsteins coverage at the time. By the end of 2015, though, Bernstein had distilled his reporting into a long, cogent analysis of the state of online extremism, concluding that various reactionary forces had coalesced into a larger, coherent counterculture, which he dubbed the Chanterculture. Though it seems obvious now, Bernsteins piece was, in many ways, a kind of blueprint for the coming year. ICYMI: Trump might be in serious trouble for his NBC tweets Since then, Bernstein has worked to map out a rough dramatis personae of the Chanterculturea term, unlike the movement, that hasnt really caught ondecoding its memes, examining its platforms and interviewing a number of seemingly obscure figures like Jeff Giesea, a Trump-supporting meme maven who worked for Peter Thiel, and the alt-right connected comedian Sam Hyde, who recorded his phone conversation with Bernstein and put it online. That exchange is typical of Bernsteins challenges as he reports on subjects who are, for the most part, intensely distrustful of the media and view communication with journalists as a kind of game. Though he says he hasnt been successfully duped by anyone, Bernstein, who is Jewish, does regularly receive hate mail, both hand-written and digital, at home and at work. His relatives have been doxed, meaning their personal information was published online. And he has seen at least one troubling meme, of his late father, Michael Bernstein, placed inside a gas chamber. His father was a lawyer for the Department of Justice whose job was to find and deport Nazi war criminals. He died in the Lockerbie bombing nearly 30 years ago on his way home from Vienna, where he had convinced the Austrian government to readmit Nazi perpetrators who immigrated to the United States in the 1950s. Eli Rosenbaum, the former director of the Office of Special Investigations, the now-defunct unit tasked with identifying Nazis in the country, describes Michael Bernstein as a meticulous prosecutor who logged countless hours at the office poring over documents and at one point eliciting a confession, which had never been accomplished before. What I remember are his memoshis briefs were written at the highest level, Rosenbaum told me in a phone interview. Im not totally surprised that Joes doing what hes doing. But Joseph Bernstein, who grew up in Bethesda, Marylanda stones throw from Comet Ping Pong, the target of the online Pizzagate conspiracy theorytells me there isnt much of a connection to be made there. He had to convince a government or a judge, and I just have to convince my editors, Bernstein said of his father. I think my mother being a therapist, and my interest in what makes people tick and why they do what they do, has as much to do with what I do as my dad. I actually think calling them Nazis, beyond not being precise, gives them a very easy way to dismiss our reporting. Another reason Bernstein dislikes the comparison with his father is that he doesnt believe all of the people he covers are necessarily Nazis, nor does he think its productive to label them as such. I dont like it when people are just like, Look what the Nazis are doing! I just dont think its helpful, Bernstein said. What we have that they dont is precision in our language, he went on, and I actually think calling them Nazis, beyond not being precise, gives them a very easy way to dismiss our reporting. *** DISMISSIVENESS HAS COME from both sides of the aisle, as some left-leaning critics have argued that coverage of the alt-right lends itself to a kind of false equivalence that gives the movement more credibility and exposure than necessary. In a recent piece for The Outline, Gaby Del Valle argued that Bernsteins early coverage of the alt-right was too credulous, and presented the movement as just another dumb subculture. She cited one piece in particular, on a college scholarship fund for white men spearheaded by Milo Yiannopoulos. Bernstein, Del Valle wrote, had regurgitated a press release as if Yiannopouloss scholarship were an earnest program and not a blatant publicity stunt. I certainly have made missteps and reported stories like that, which in retrospect Im not super happy about, Bernstein told me. But he hastens to add that such beat sweeteners have allowed him to develop sources and pursue tips, which have led, he says, to some of his most memorable scoops. Support Columbia Journalism Review by donating here Bernstein doesnt discount the possibility that the media may have played a part in the creation of the alt-right, just as it played a part, he believes, in the creation of Trump. But blaming the media for the alt-right, he thinks, gives the media too much credit and ignores the reasons that so many young, disenchanted white men are lured into reactionary culture in the first place. I mean, they tapped into something deep and abiding, he says. Ultimately, Bernstein isnt as interested in quibbling over chicken-or-egg questions as he is in examining how the alt-right thrives, laying bare its spinning cogs. Several journalists from other outlets have staked their claims on that territory, as well, including Rosie Gray of The Atlantic, Oliver Darcy of CNN, and Andrew Marantz of The New Yorker, all of whom have produced memorable reporting on the alt-right. But Bernstein remains uniquely sourced, and as the movement mutates, he hopes to explore, among other things, how the alt-rights foot soldiers are emerging from behind the screen to materialize in public spaces, as in Charlottesville and Queens, where right-wing trolls disrupted Shia LaBeoufs video art installation He Will Not Divide Us, the fallout from which Bernstein has already examined in depth. Were starting to see the way the power structure has tapped into this culture of internet conservative antagonism, Bernstein told me. I think were still mapping this, and I think there is more to be mapped. But its important to know. Bernstein hasnt tired of covering the alt-right at all, it seems, even though hes been crawling around in the digital muck for years now. I have a high personal tolerance for shit, he said. ICYMI: Its a privilege to have something to work on for five months that can almost pay your bills Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Matthew Kassel is a freelance writer whose work has been published by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Slate. Legislation to reduce Michigans high auto insurance premiums by letting drivers opt out of mandatory unlimited medical coverage is in peril, with majority Republicans lacking enough support to pass it on their own and many Democrats pushing an alternative plan. House Speaker Tom Leonard openly says he needs 10 to 15 of the chambers 45 Democrats to help move the bill to the Senate. That means 19 to 24 of the 63 House Republicans are opposed. He is relying on Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, whose city residents face the highest rates in the U.S. and who is a leading proponent of the plan, to bring Democrats on board this fall. Some are open, but many remain resistant weeks after the measure was introduced, which suggests the proposal could stall like many before it have. The legislation seeks a 40 percent cut, for five years, in personal injury protection fees for motorists choosing $250,000 rather than unlimited PIP coverage. That could equal an estimated 20 percent reduction in the overall cost of a comprehensive policy and a nearly 50 percent discount on a basic policy. Drivers age 62 and older who have Medicare or other retiree health insurance whom the bills supporters say should not be double billed for injury coverage could opt out entirely of PIP, saving an estimated 35 percent. There also is a provision stating that pricing for $250,000 and $500,000 coverage levels must reflect savings expected from the bill. Michigan is the only state to require unlimited lifetime coverage for medical expenses resulting from auto crashes. A $170 annual per-vehicle fee is assessed to reimburse auto insurers for expenses surpassing $550,000. Rep. Sherry Day-Dagnogo, a Detroit Democrat who opposes the legislation, said she is concerned insurance companies could wiggle out of requirements to lower rates and that the discounted rates would not last. She also worries Detroiters who pick less injury coverage and who are seriously hurt would be put in a vulnerable state after leaving the hospital. Day-Dagnono is backing alternative measures that would, among other things, prevent the use of non-driving factors to set rates a practice that critics say unfairly discriminates against lower-income motorists. The $250,000 PIP option would include $225,000 for emergency care and $25,000 for other care and benefits such as wage loss replacement, which detractors say is inadequate. Backers counter that any medical costs exceeding the caps would then be covered by peoples private or government health insurance. One Democrat opposing the bill, Rep. Tim Greimel of Auburn Hills, said it would gut benefits, shift costs to Medicaid and only provide a rate reduction to some Michigan drivers and only then for a five-year period, after which insurers could jack up rates willy-nilly. Everyone, not just those picking less expensive coverage, should benefit from other cost-saving provisions that would reduce reimbursements for health providers treatment of people injured in crashes and create a fraud authority, he said. The measures supporters contend that auto insurers could not simply pocket those savings if they want to stay competitive. The entire House GOP caucus discussed the legislation for two hours behind closed doors this past week. Another meeting is expected this coming week, after which the House Insurance Committee could send the bill to the floor. Leonard said he may ultimately have the full House vote, even if the measure would go down in defeat. Im not taking that off the table, he said. This is an issue that many folks have campaigned on. This is an issue that many folks are passionate on. But most importantly, this is an issue that I believe is one of, if not the biggest, one facing the citizens of this state. Ultimately, I think each legislator within this chamber needs to let the residents that they represent know where they stand. The panels chairwoman, Republican Rep. Lana Theis of Brighton, said Michigan has the highest car premiums in the country because auto insurers are paying medical bills that mainly instead go to health insurance companies in the 49 other states Were mandating that people purchase something that they may or may not need, she said. Why wouldnt we offer them choice? They get choice in every other area of their life. Some of the states biggest political spenders and lobbyists hospitals, business groups, plaintiffs attorneys, health providers, insurance companies and insurance agents are lining up for and against Theis bill. Political action committees and executives tied to organizations or businesses that have taken past stances on auto insurance legislation have given more than $700,000 to accounts tied to members of the House and Senate insurance committees over the past five years, according to the Michigan Campaign Finance Network. Rep. Leslie Love, a Detroit Democrat, said her constituents need a break and should be able to buy less PIP benefits because some savings are better than nothing. She said it costs her $4,200 a year to insure her 2009 Saturn Aura that has logged more than 100,000 miles. She called the Theis-Leonard-Duggan bill a good beginning and said a separate bipartisan package of bills backed by hospitals, brain injury rehabilitation centers and trial lawyers has really good elements. What Im hoping is that what doesnt happen is whats happened over the last 20 years that they collide and then nothing happens Love said. We all get our heels dug in. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. When Tyler Smith was diagnosed with testicular cancer, medical marijuana didnt feel like a valid option. He took opioids to manage the pain of nine months of chemotherapy. To balance the side effects, he took anti-nausea medication. When he stopped wanting food, he couldnt find anything that helped. I knew cannabis might help, but at that point there were no safeguards around the medicine, Smith said. Patient accessibility and safety in this medicine is something we as a state need to learn more about. Smith has been cancer-free for two years. As a chemist, he wants to see safety increase around marijuana for those who still need the drug. He recently opened White Buffalo Laboratories as one of Montanas first certified labs to examine cannabis. Smith said without any national standards around the drug, we dont really know the full scope of regulations the state will decide well have to operate by. Montanas 13-year-old medical marijuana program has seesawed between few regulations and limited access. Upcoming program rules are supposed to change that, but many of the details are still murky. Roughly six months from now, the state will unroll new licensing requirements for providers and, for the first time, rules around testing the quality, potency and safety of cannabis sold as medicine. The idea is similar to having health grades for restaurants. Amid this uncertainty, the number of patients signing up for the states cannabis program is growing. As of August, nearly 19,000 people qualified for marijuana prescriptions 1,124 more than the month before. The largest set of those patients lives in Gallatin County with 3,836 cardholders. Many providers are starting to test their cannabis before the new program requirements kick in April 30. They hope if lab results reveal an issue, they can fix it without delaying patient prescriptions. But only two out of the states four young labs are open. Were getting providers lined up but waiting for the department to come out with their rule making, Smith said. My concern is whether we have time to get into compliance to avoid a bottleneck in April. PROVIDERS Montanas upcoming regulations were set in motion last fall by a voter-passed Initiative 182. Among other things, the measure removed a rule lawmakers created that limited providers to three patients. Before restricting providers size, in 2011 lawmakers pointed to the fact that 30,000 Montanans were cannabis cardholders as proof the program was too big. After years of litigation, the rules went into effect last year. Nearly 90 percent of the states marijuana patients lost their providers and 55 dispensaries stopped operating. When I-182 expanded access once again, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 333 as an attempt to set up side rails to Montanas marijuana program. Bobby Devine, owner of Spark1 in Bozeman, said he doesnt think all dispensaries will make the cut when the state unrolls new licensing guidelines. There is an industry standard that exists throughout this country, and its coming to Montana, Devine said. Its a win-win for patients. Owner of New Roots Inc., Doug Ireland said hes relieved the voter initiative re-established his ability to test what hes selling to roughly 50 patients. But he still doesnt know how often hell have to send cannabis in for testing or how much it will cost. I want to make sure were serving whats right for patients, Ireland said. But were not big enough to be able to pay thousands for every batch we harvest. LABS TRYING TO MEET THE DEMAND Twice a month, Ron Brost travels the nearly 340 miles from his lab in the Flathead Valley to pick up Irelands samples in Bozeman. Brost opened Stillwater Laboratory in April, Montanas first registered cannabis analysis business. With only two labs right now, we cant leave Bozeman high and dry without anybody to test, Brost said. Or Billings or Missoula. Brost sized his lab to serve the Flathead Valley, or about 10 percent of Montanans enrolled in the medical marijuana program. Im no longer concerned if there will be enough work, he said. Id say 10 hours is an easy workday and it only goes up from there. Some nights, we just work through. Brost said the routine isnt sustainable but it should balance out. He thinks analysis companies outside of Montana are waiting to show up until dispensaries are required to send their product to labs. Andre Umansky said hes worried Montana could get too many testing facilities. His lab, Fidelity Diagnostics Laboratory LLC, has tested roughly 1,000 samples since opening two months ago. Umansky went from being the main man in the lab to training new employees to keep up. But he said thats expected with a new industry. Umansky thinks about three labs is the right amount to serve Montanans, though he added it depends on how many patients sign up. If we start getting out-of-state labs in Montana, like from Washington, theyve had eight years to get ready and weve had zero, he said. Jon Ebelt with Montanas health department said its too soon to say whether current labs can fill Montanas needs. He said he wont know that answer until the states rule-making process wraps up and he knows each labs testing capacity. Ebelt said the states new marijuana program requirements should be out for public comment by the end of the year before theyre finalized in April. He said the state has worked with labs and providers around the country to draft the program. As officials have researched what other states have done, Ebelt said not one has exactly mirrored the structure created by Initiative 182 and SB 333. The marijuana industry continues to evolve and requirements are constantly changing, he said. No state has developed or implemented the perfect system and states must be flexible and adaptable. AN EVOLVING INDUSTRY Smith said depending on what hes required to analyze, his young business could be looking at spending $500,000 for additional machinery. Its also unclear what certification requirements labs will have to meet. For advice, Smith turned to Christopher Hudalla, a chemist in Massachusetts. When Hudallas state legalized medical marijuana in 2013, he was one of the people advocating it get tested. It just made sense, everything you put in or on your body would be tested, so why not cannabis, Hudalla said. The same year Massachusetts legalized medicinal cannabis, it became the first state to announce it would mandate marijuana testing. Since then, Hudalla has watched the ripple throughout the nation. He said states trying to build regulations for an established marijuana program are similar ocean liners trying to change course. When Oregon began testing, Hudalla said only one lab passed the states requirements to test for pesticides, which led to delays in testing as every provider flocked to the facility. When Hawaii set up the program this year, initially one lab qualified to test cannabis and could only evaluate the plants flower. That meant patients couldnt buy vapors, edibles or oils. So labs opened and in two days closed again because they ran out of flower, Hudalla said. He said California is an example of a state thats worked with labs, providers and doctors while shaping safe access around the drug. He said labs left in the middle ground should try to create policy complying with the International Organization for Standardization. Hudalla is on a board working to set national standards to analyze cannabis with U.S. Pharmacopeia, or USP a label on most bottles in medicine cabinets. USP establishes testing methods and appropriate limits for contaminants within commonly used drugs. He said once those standards exist, it will be easier for states to get on the same page. Until then, he said each program will have its own rocky spots. Smith said he expects some hurdles as he and his partners set up shop. But throughout the rule-making process, hes felt like officials have listened to the concerns of people relying on the new guidelines. Consistency in the products, the testing and the results, I think thats whats coming, he said. I think its going to create a program thats here to stay, whereas before, there was always some uncertainty. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Airbus agreed on Monday to buy a majority stake in Bombardier's CSeries jetliner program, grabbing control of a struggling competitor at the second attempt and giving the Canadian plane-and-train-maker an unexpected boost in its costly trade dispute with Boeing . The deal, which would come at no cost for Toulouse, France-based Airbus, would give the European planemaker a 50.01 percent interest in CSeries Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP), which manufactures and sells the jets, the companies said. An employee works on an Airbus A380 plane inside the Air France KLM maintenance hangar at the Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Roissy, near Paris, France, May 31, 2016. Philippe Wojazer | Reuters While Bombardier will lose control of a plane program developed at a cost of $6 billion, it gives the CSeries improved economies of scale and a better sales network. The 110-to-130 seat plane has not secured a new order in 18 months and is being threatened by a possible 300 percent duty on U.S. imports. Bombardier said the partnership should more than double the value of the CSeries program. "Bombardier no longer has control of this jet, but then again, it's better to have a 30 percent share of a very successful program than to struggle with a highly risky program that was perhaps too big for them from the start," said aerospace analyst Richard Aboulafia. Canadian Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains, who must decide whether to approve the deal, said in a statement that "on the surface, Bombardier's new proposed partnership ... would help position the CSeries for success". A strategic decision Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders said the company has offered to assemble some of the narrowbody jets at its U.S. plant in Alabama for orders by American carriers. The U.S. assembly line would mean the jets would not be subject to possible U.S. anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duties of 300 percent, Bombardier Chief Executive Alain Bellemare said on a media conference call. Bellemare called the deal with Airbus, which was first attempted unsuccessfully in 2015, a "strategic" decision that is expected to close in the second half of 2018. "We're doing this deal here not because of this Boeing petition. We are doing this deal because it is the right strategic move for Bombardier," Bellemare said, referring to Boeing's complaint that the Canadian firm received illegal subsidies and dumped CSeries planes at "absurdly low" prices. watch now A Boeing spokesman dismissed the agreement as a "questionable deal between two state subsidized competitors" to try to skirt a recent U.S. trade finding against the CSeries. In February, the Canadian government announced C$372.5 million ($297 million) in repayable loans for the CSeries and another Bombardier jet program. The Airbus investment does not place any more financial burdens on Ottawa, two sources close to the case said on Monday. The sources, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to media, also said the deal would have no effect on a separate dispute between Canada and Boeing over a proposed purchase of 18 Super Hornet jets. The government has frozen contacts with Boeing's military wing until the company drops its challenge against the CSeries. Bombardier said the deal would not result in job losses and would keep the head office in Montreal. Unions said the deal would benefit the program. "Ultimately, the U.S. actions have created a stronger Bombardier," said Jerry Dias, president of Unifor, which represents some of Bombardier's unionized workers in Canada. The Boeing-Bombardier dispute has snowballed into a bigger multilateral trade dispute, with British Prime Minister Theresa May asking President Donald Trump to intervene in order to save British jobs. Bombardier is the largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland, which is the poorest of the United Kingdom's four constituent parts and remains mired in political sensitivities after emerging from decades of armed sectarian conflict. Boost for Belfast On Monday, the leader of the Northern Irish party propping up Britain's minority government said the Airbus was "incredibly significant news" for Belfast. watch now President Donald Trump's apparent willingness to exit an agreement with Iran could undermine any hope of negotiations with another adversary: North Korea. The credibility of Washington's international commitments is now at stake, and mixed messages coming out of the White House are only exacerbating the situation. Tehran, October 14, 2017: An Iranian man reads a copy of the daily newspaper 'Omid Javan' bearing a picture of U.S. President Donald Trump with a headline that reads 'Crazy Trump and logical JCPOA' (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) STR/AFP/Getty Images watch now In this aerial view, a burned neighborhood is seen in Santa Rosa, California on October 12, 2017. There have been at least two incidents of drones disrupting firefighting activities during the deadly Northern California wildfire disaster, the FAA said Monday. "We received two reports of incidents in which people flew drones in fire areas," Ian Gregor, a Pacific Division spokesman for the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration told CNBC in an email statement. "We will look into both." One of the drone incidents took place early last week in the Santa Rosa area, but a second was in the city of Petaluma on Sunday, resulting in an arrest. The wildfires in the Sonoma County/Santa Rosa area started Oct. 8. The drone incursions come as the death toll in the Northern California wildfires increased to at least 41 people Monday, which includes a driver killed in a water tanker crash in Napa County. In Sonoma County alone, at least 88 people are listed as missing. The state wildfires in several counties have scorched more than 220,000 acres and destroyed an estimated 5,700 structures, including entire neighborhoods. There also are reports of at least 10 wineries or vineyards damaged or with significant damage in the Sonoma and Napa areas, heart of the state's wine country. The so-called Tubbs Fire in mostly Sonoma County was 70 percent contained as of Monday afternoon and full containment was expected Friday. More than 24,000 homes are still threatened by the wildfire, although rain is forecast for Thursday and could bring welcome relief to the region. The mayor of Santa Rosa, Chris Coursey, estimated that damage in the city exceeded $1 billion. The cause of the Tubbs fire is still under investigation. Meantime, authorities say hobbyist drone incursions on wildfires pose a safety risk to firefighting aircraft battling the disaster and jeopardizes the safety of residents and crews on the ground. "Over the years, we have seen this problem become a trend," said Cal Fire spokesman Daniel Berlant. "When drones are flying in the same airspace we're trying to use firefighting aircraft, like helicopters and air tankers, for the safety of our pilots we've got to pull those aircraft out of the sky and land them." Added Berlant: "The potential for a fire to grow larger and do more damage during the time we can't use firefighting aircraft while that drone is in that area exists. That's why it's critical that we educate and ensure that the public is not flying their drones over our aircraft or over fires." The Petaluma Police Department announced Sunday a drone flew over Petaluma Airport and halted Cal Fire helicopters from flying out in response to fires in Sonoma and Napa counties. According to the police, a 24-year-old resident was questioned about the incident, arrested and "stated he did not realize it was illegal." The FAA official said a drone pilot who "recklessly interferes with firefighting or other emergency response operations" is subject to civil penalties from the FAA of up to $20,000 per violation. Nationally, drone incursions during wildfires are growing as more people get their hands on the unmanned devices capable of capturing video or photos. From 2015 to 2016, the incidents of private drone incursions over or near wildfires jumped from around 12 cases to 42 reported instances, according to the Interior Department. In July, firefighters battling the Williams Fire in the northern portion of Arizona were forced to delay using a helicopter for water drops after an unauthorized drone was spotted. Similarly, there were several other cases of private drones causing problems for crews fighting Arizona's Pinal Fire in May. Defense stocks have been on a tear this year as geopolitical tensions rise. And according to some traders, the run may be far from over -- specifically in . On Monday bullish investors bought more than ten thousand November 190 calls. As of Monday's close the stock was trading at $188.70, so by purchasing November 190 calls traders are betting the stock will be above $190 by next month. The options contracts give the traders the right to buy the stock for $190 even once it's surpassed that level. Pete Najarian believes the stock is set to break out because of the company's involvement in different fields. "This is a really interesting name. It's defense, it's cyber, it's everywhere that we talk about each and every day," he said. The stock is up thirty-two percent this year, and it trades at 24.8X forward earnings. While the billionaire entrepreneur Richard Branson was largely offline during and after Hurricane Irma, which ravaged the British Virgin Islands in September, a conman impersonated him and stole $2 million. "This story sounds like it has come straight out of a John le Carre book or a James Bond film, but it is sadly all true," the iconic entrepreneur says on his blog Tuesday. Branson found out about the heist when he got back online after the storm. A "very successful businessperson" friend of Branson's wrote asking when he could expect to be repaid the money he had lent Branson to help the British Virgin Islands recover after Irma. "I had no idea what they were talking about," Branson says in his blog. His (unidentified) friend had gotten an email from someone who said they were Branson's assistant and arranged a call. "When the call happened, the conman did an extremely accurate impression of me and spun a big lie about urgently needing a loan while I was trying to mobilize aid in the BVI. They claimed I couldn't get hold of my bank in the UK because I didn't have any communications going to Europe and I'd only just managed to make a satellite call to the businessman in America," Branson says. The businessman friend gave $2 million towards what he thought were recovery efforts. The money went directly to the conman instead. It's a heist of enormous scale. Richard Branson billionaire entrepreneur Branson's friend "has spent his life being cautious and told me he couldn't believe how stupid he had been. He is an incredibly generous person who gives to all sorts of causes, and it is just too sad for words that of all people it was he who had fallen for it," Branson says. "It's a heist of enormous scale," the iconic entrepreneur says of the millions lost. Branson says he expects the conman is the same individual who had tried to steal $5 million from him six months ago. In that situation, Branson's assistant received a written request "on what appeared to be official government notepaper" for a call from a British official. "I called Sir Michael on the number given. He told me it was an incredibly sensitive matter and that he wanted to be sure there was nobody else in the room whilst I talked to him. He asked that we speak in strict confidence and said that a British diplomat had been kidnapped and was being held by terrorists," says Branson. "He told me that British laws prevented the government from paying out ransoms, which he normally completely concurred with. But he said on this occasion there was a particular, very sensitive, reason why they had to get this diplomat back. So they were extremely confidentially asking a syndicate of British businesspersons to step in. I was asked to contribute $5 million dollars of the ransom money, which he assured me the British government would find a way of paying back." Alphabet says its Sidewalk Labs unit will help design a model city district in Toronto as the research group pushes urban design it says can make cities less congested and more affordable. The campus will be located in Toronto's Eastern Waterfront district and be part of one of "the largest waterfront development projects anywhere in North America," said Kathleen Wynne, the Premier of Ontario, at an event announcing the project. Alphabet Chairman Eric Schmidt and Dan Doctoroff, chief executive of Sidewalk Labs, went to Toronto for the event, also attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Google will move its Canadian headquarters to the district, which will become "a test bed for new technologies," Trudeau said. The company, which has more than 1,000 workers in Canada, has been buying large tracts of land in Northern California and in other technology hubs to house its growing workforce. The company is looking to design new types of urban centers that would house employees close enough to their workplace so they can walk, bike or commute via public transit. Schmidt said the idea for Sidewalk Labs came about years ago when he and Google co-founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page thought of "all the things we could do if someone would just give us a city and put us in charge...Thank you very much, Canada," Schmidt said, after joking "that's not how it works." Sidewalk Labs is also doing research into affordable housing and other urban challenges. "New technology can help cities address their biggest challenges," Doctoroff said. "We looked all over the world to find the perfect place to bring this vision to life. We found it in Toronto," he said. In a blog post on its website, Sidewalk Labs wrote : "We are designing a district in Toronto's Eastern Waterfront to tackle the challenges of urban growth, working in partnership with the tri-government agency Waterfront Toronto and the local community." People look at a Tesla car at a showroom in Beijing. Tesla will thrive in the world's largest auto market, according to one Wall Street firm. Piper Jaffray reiterated its overweight rating on Tesla shares, saying the company's electric car quality is far ahead of its peers in China. "After meeting with an electric vehicle (EV) trade group this week in Beijing, we still think Tesla has little to fear from Chinese brands, at least based on the current competitive landscape," analyst Alexander Potter wrote in a note to clients Tuesday. "Branding and performance are just as important, and in this regard, we think nobody (least of all Chinese OEMs) can compete with TSLA." Tesla's China sales rose to $1.07 billion last year from $319 million in 2015, according to an SEC 10-K filing. Potter reaffirmed his $386 price target on Tesla shares, representing 10 percent upside to Monday's close. "Anyone who has taken a ride in a Chinese EV will tell you that, like most other Chinese sedans, these vehicles just aren't compelling consumer products," he wrote. The analyst said China will start an electric vehicle quota system in 2019. Large automakers will be required to purchase electric vehicle credits for 10 percent of total production that year, increasing to 12 percent by 2020. "Companies that fail to achieve the quotas will be able to buy credits from companies that exceed the quotas," he wrote. Tesla's stock is up 64 percent this year versus the S&P 500's 14 percent return through Monday. The company's stock fell 1.4 percent Monday after a report that it fired hundreds of employees. Its shares are up 0.2 percent shortly after the market open Tuesday. Some investors are also concerned about the company's cash burn and ability to meet its Model 3 production goals. While the rest of Wall Street was gushing over Netflix's earnings results on Monday, there were two major analysts on the sidelines, citing concerns about lower profit margins as the video streaming giant spends big on content. Credit Suisse analyst Stephen Ju and Jefferies analyst John Janedis both expressed concerns that much of Netflix's revenue will be offset by mounting content expenses. Netflix's CFO, David Wells, said Monday that the company could spend up to $8 billion for original content alone. On the other hand, both the Credit Suisse and Jefferies analysts agreed that Netflix's recently announced price increases in the United States would be helpful in handling the "cash burn." The company's $10-a-month high-definition plan will now cost $11, according to changes reflected on Netflix's subscription page earlier this month. Netflix's 4K streaming plan, which provides higher-quality content, will cost $14 per month, a $2 increase. "It does appear that Netflix will roll out to the relevant markets at one time, which does raise our revenue estimates for 2018," wrote Credit Suisse analyst Stephen Ju. "This is offset by increased content acquisition spend expectations of between $10.9-$12.4b next year ... We remain on the sidelines on balanced risk/reward and maintain our neutral rating." Jefferies analyst John Janedis added, "we expect the business will remain cash flow negative for several years, largely driven by significant cash spend on original programming." The analyst said spending on original shows will overtake spending on other programming as many rein in licensed content. Ju cut his 12-month price target on Netflix to $209 from $210, while Janedis raised his target to $190 from $180. Netflix closed at $199.48 on Tuesday: Ju's target is roughly 3 percent higher than its current price while Janedis' target implies a approximate 6 percent decline. The company's shares have rallied 64 percent this year through Monday versus the S&P 500's 14 percent return. However, shares fell 0.25 percent Tuesday, a morning after the earnings report. "It's exciting that everyone is trying to make over-the-top television better and better, and I think that is good for all of us," said Theodore Sarandos, Netflix's chief content officer, on Monday. "We just have to focus on creating content that our members can't live without and get excited about every month." Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PG&E) employees work to fix downed power lines burned by wildfires in this aerial photograph taken above Santa Rosa, California, U.S., on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017. An attorney specializing in wildfire lawsuits said PG&E could potentially be on the hook for up to $6 billion in damages if found liable for the deadly Northern California wildfires. "From everything we've learned, it looks like PG&E is responsible for at least some of the fires," said Gerald Singleton, of the Singleton Law Firm based in San Diego County's Solana Beach. Even so, he pointed out the cause hasn't been definitively determined. Regardless, Singleton said there's a history of California's investor-owned energy utilities generally failing to do proper maintenance. "They often times don't perform the maintenance that needs to be done, and as a result, you get these types of catastrophic fires that just destroy communities," he said. At least 41 people have died in the Northern California wildfires, and in Sonoma County alone 22 people perished and the fatalities could rise since dozens of others remain listed as missing, according to authorities. Overall, the wildfires have scorched more than 220,000 acres and destroyed an estimated 5,700 structures. As of Tuesday, the cause of the wildfires in Northern California remained "under investigation," according to Cal Fire. State officials are looking into reports of whether downed power lines caused by strong winds and an exploding transformer from PG&E may have caused the so-called Tubbs Fire that started the evening of Oct. 8. The Tubbs Fire wiped out entire neighborhoods in Sonoma County's largest city of Santa Rosa, including the suburb of Coffey Park. There also are questions being raised about what started the nearby Nuns Fire, which burned into Napa Valley and started an estimated 15 minutes after the Tubbs incident, according to Cal Fire estimates. In an SEC regulatory filing Friday, PG&E acknowledged that the causes of the fires are being investigated by Cal Fire, adding that the probe includes "the possible role of power lines and other facilities" of its Pacific Gas & Electric utility subsidiary. According to the San Francisco-based company's filing, "It currently is unknown whether the [PG&E] utility would have any liability associated with these fires." PG&E, California's largest investor-owned utility, has seen its stock under pressure as a result of concerns about its current fire liability. The stock fell sharply Friday and Monday, losing about a quarter of its value in that stretch, but Tuesday was trading up about 3 percent. The company has about $800 million in liability insurance for potential losses in connection with the wildfires, according to its SEC filing. "If the amount of insurance is insufficient to cover the utility's liability or if insurance is otherwise unavailable, PG&E Corp's and the utility's financial condition or results of operations could be materially affected," the company's filing stated. "Realistically, you're looking at $5 billion or $6 billion in damages," said Singleton of the current wildfires. He said it's likely to "dwarf all the other ones" that involved fires linked to California utilities. watch now Washington has slapped a 300 percent trade tariff on Bombardier , accusing the Canadian aerospace firm of both receiving state aid and potentially "dumping" its new plane on the U.S. market. The U.S. Department of Commerce (DoC) issued the preliminary ruling last month after Boeing requested action, fearing Bombardier's C-Series jet could hurt profit levels at the U.S. aircraft manufacturer. Now Bombardier has struck a deal with European aerospace giant Airbus , who have agreed to develop, market and sell the Bombardier jet. CNBC takes a look at how the situation unfolded and what is set to happen next. Boeing's complaint The dispute centers on alleged illegal subsidies that Bombardier received for its C-Series program, a 100 to 150-seat jet that has been in the skies since 2016. The U.S. commerce department, with the support of U.S. President Donald Trump, took up a Boeing complaint that Bombardier received state aid as far back as 2008 in order to make the program a success. Boeing's second part of the complaint was that Bombardier could potentially "dump" the aircraft to buyers at below-market prices. The DoC asked Bombardier to provide information but the Canadian company refused, claiming it would provide rivals with a look into its business and pricing structure. After this refusal, U.S. authorities upheld the Boeing complaint and issued Bombardier with a preliminary 300 percent anti-dumping tariff on its C-Series. Bombardier's complaint The CS100 and CS300 versions of the Bombardier plane are in use by Swiss Air and Air Baltic. In the United States, Bombardier has sold 75 of its new C-Series planes to Delta Airlines. Fred Cromer, president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, told CNBC in June that Boeing was attempting to stifle further Bombardier sales and that the wider industry viewed Boeing's litigation as "an attack on innovation." Cromer added that Boeing doesn't even produce a plane that serves 100 passengers and so the complaint has little merit. He speculated that the Boeing move was likely designed to railroad airlines toward bigger planes. Boeing has claimed that Bombardier's deal with Delta Airlines will see 75 C-Series planes sold for $19.6 million apiece, way below production cost. Bombardier and Delta refuse to reveal the true sale price, claiming commercial sensitivity but Cromer told CNBC the numbers quoted by Boeing "are way off base." Airbus swoops Airbus, European aircraft manufacturer and Boeing's main rival, has entered the fray by announcing Tuesday that it is to take a majority stake in the C-Series jet program. No money is involved in the deal, but while Bombardier relinquishes control of its own program, it will use the opportunity to retain a share in a plane program that previously looked under threat of failure. Airbus will offer improved economies of scale for the plane development as well as opening up the C-Series to a larger sales network. Crucially, the C-Series could also now be built at Airbus' U.S. plant in Mobile, Alabama, which would mean the plane would not be subject to any anti-subsidy or anti-dumping duties. Analysts at Kepler Cheuvreux said the deal looked good for Airbus as long as orders bounce upwards from the current level of 346 planes. Shares in Airbus rose more than 2.4 percent on the news. Politics at highest level Aside from impacting relations between Canada and the United States, the dust-up has also affected the U.K. and Brexit. Bombardier has a plant in Northern Ireland that employs 4,000 people. The firm says jobs could go if Bombardier is negatively impacted by Washington-imposed taxes. Northern Irish support is currently crucial to the stability of a fragile U.K. coalition government and the situation has forced London into strong rhetoric. U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May has said she is "bitterly disappointed" by the move to impose a tariff while the U.K. defense secretary has said the move jeopardizes Boeing's chances of winning British government contracts. The situation is an awkward one for May, who at the same time is keen to maintain and develop trade ties with both Canada and the U.S. as it exits the European Union. What happens now? A man holds an Apple iPad Mini as he uses Uber app. The regional policy chief of embattled ride-hailing company Uber is leaving to join ChargePoint, a U.S. electric-vehicle charging-network maker that has attracted major financial backing from European transport companies. Christopher Burghardt told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday that he plans to join ChargePoint early next month as its lead regional executive. He will oversee the Silicon Valley company's aggressive charging-point expansion plans in Europe. Uber faced a year of mounting scandals and regulatory battles after Burghardt signed on last September as policy and communications chief across the company's 45-country Europe, Middle East and Africa region. ChargePoint supplies charging hardware and software used to connect outlets. It owns no re-charging stations of its own but works like an AirBnB or Uber to create a network of locations and schedule bookings at available charge points. "The energy and mobility spaces are coming together," Burghardt said. "ChargePoint is really one of the leading companies in electric vehicle infrastructure - where the two trends meet." The aggressive overhaul of by CEO Hunter Harrison faced a number of setbacks last quarter, company executives said on a conference call with investors Tuesday. CSX with expectations, according to FactSet. Shares of the third-largest railroad in the U.S. rose around 1 percent in midday trading. Harrison, who arrived in March, faced train accidents and multiple service delays as he works to implement a strategy he calls "precision scheduled railroading." He said it has not been an easy process. "We had some embarrassing situations that we had to deal with, and we dealt with them," Harrison told to investors on the conference call. "At one of our major gateways, we had a case where some people falsified records of car movement so they would not be criticized about cars being delayed." In June, the company dismissed nine employees due to the incident Harrison referenced, a CSX representative told CNBC. After eight months as chief executive, Harrison said the network improvements he is aiming for are not complete. He told investors CSX is "much further along than where I thought we would be," an optimistic view he and other company leaders repeated throughout the call. Several CSX customers confronted Harrison during a hearing before federal regulators last week. Agribusiness giant Cargill had two recent plant shutdowns it pinned on CSX, during a hearing before the Surface Transportation Board on Oct. 11. The first plant stopped operations for a morning when crew wasn't available to take railcars, and the second closed for two days, when Cargill said CSX failed to send empty cars for loading. J.M. Smucker , Chemours , Cristal and Kellogg issued similar complaints. The companies allege CSX scheduling failures have cost millions of dollars in added shipping expenses, according to statements at the hearing and from the Georgia Agribusiness Council. A distribution manager at Cristal said the company has only gotten worse in the past two months, telling the Wall Street Journal that it's been "a very miserable time trying to deal" with CSX. CSX executives said "we probably left some demand on the ground" during the last three months. "We got, maybe, a little ahead of ourselves," Harrison added. "Maybe I was pushing too hard." The railroad's leaders also emphasized that a myriad of issues came with the past hurricane season, saying CSX removed 8,000 trees from "operating properties following Hurricane Irma." Shares of CSX are up more than 11 percent since the company appointed Harrison to CEO, in a controversial move by activist investor Mantle Ridge. This year CSX stock has risen by more than 48 percent as of Monday's close. "Now, President Trump is trying a slightly different tack on tax reform. He's trying to convince those holdout Senate Republicans that their hold on power is directly connected to passing a tax-cut bill." Preserving a party's political power has nothing to do with anything other than benefiting those party leaders. Good government always loses out when holding on to office becomes the only real goal. And that kind of team-player partisan politics is a major reason for a lot of the horrific mistakes and pain Washington has imposed on this and other countries for generations. For example, neither party wanted to be labeled as the group that lost the Vietnam War. So after bashing the Democrats for their handling of the carnage in Southeast Asia for years, the Republicans under President Richard Nixon just continued and at times escalated the killing and bombing for years. And that followed years of President Lyndon Johnson conducting the war aggressively to avoid charges that his Democratic Party was soft on Communism. Our $20 trillion and growing national debt is another example of a mistake rooted in the binary two-party system. The one thing each party does once it's in power in Congress is to initiate programs and policies that reward its followers in hopes they will help them remain in power. That's why it really doesn't matter which party is in control in Washington, both are 100 percent likely to spend more money than the federal government has coming in to the U.S. Treasury. You get the picture. Along comes President Trump and suddenly the veneers of party unity, and marching in ideological lockstep are starting to fade away quickly. The funny thing is, President Trump proved that the Republican Party was more about holding on to power and less about its own ideology when he challenged the GOP Congress to pass an Obamacare repeal and it failed. It's hard to believe the career Republicans in Washington really believe in anything but themselves when they couldn't even pass a bill to repeal a policy they've uniformly denounced for seven years. Now, President Trump is trying a slightly different tack on tax reform. He's trying to convince those holdout Senate Republicans that their hold on power is directly connected to passing a tax-cut bill. The more he publicly pushes the economic argument for tax reform, and privately assures GOP officeholders they're jobs are at stake, the better chances this plan has to pass. Notice the key difference here: Previous presidents facing the kind of super-thin congressional majority in their parties that President Trump faced on day one would make their legislative priorities rely on getting more Republicans re-elected and elected in the midterm elections. Under the old paradigm, the White House and the Republicans would pursue a legislative agenda that was more muted with the focus on playing "not to lose" as opposed to an aggressive push for big wins. But President Trump shattered that safe strategy during the transition period when he challenged the congressional Republicans to repeal and replace Obamacare as soon as possible. He was actually putting ideology and policy goals ahead of preservation of party power. And from that point on, there was no place for the GOP to hide. And their failure to not only pass an Obamacare repeal bill but also to package it in any attractive way is a big reason why a new poll has Democrats beating the Republicans by 14 points on a generic congressional ballot for 2018. Perhaps this is the source of so much of the intraparty anger at President Trump. There's no denying he hurts the Republican brand in many areas with his enduring low approval numbers, and instead of protecting GOP members of Congress he's insisted they live up to their promises. That doesn't mean that people like Senator Bob Corker aren't telling the truth when they question President Trump's fitness for office, but you have to consider the wounded source: Corker is quitting the Senate rather than face a tough re-election fight next year. And even now, McConnell seems more cautious on tax reform. Even as he stood at the same podium with President Trump Monday, he seemed to push the deadline for passing tax reform into next year. McConnell even reminded the gathered news media that it took the Obama administration and the Democrat-dominated Congress until well into its second year to pass Obamacare. Love or hate President Trump's policy agenda, he's clearly not interested in protecting the Republican Party at the expense of that agenda. Washington is clearly not used to this. The fact that Monday's slightly awkward Trump-McConnell joint appearance even happened is the product of this strange new world for the D.C. establishment. For now, that awkward partnership on this one issue of tax reform seems to be holding. But don't bet on it going any further, especially as long as President Trump keeps focusing on achieving goals and the GOP is still focused on survival. Commentary by Jake Novak, CNBC.com senior columnist. Follow him on Twitter @jakejakeny. For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCopinion on Twitter. Market doomsayer Marc "Dr. Doom" Faber has launched a racially charged diatribe in his latest newsletter, alleging that the U.S. is great primarily because it is ruled by white people. The eccentric Gloom, Boom & Doom report author, who often speaks on CNBC and other financial media, generally forecasting some type of market downturn, focused his latest comments on the racial conflicts happening around the country. (A CNBC spokesperson said it will not book him in the future.) "And thank God white people populated America, and not the blacks. Otherwise, the US would look like Zimbabwe, which it might look like one day anyway, but at least America enjoyed 200 years in the economic and political sun under a white majority," he wrote. "I am not a racist, but the reality no matter how politically incorrect needs to be spelled out." Reached for comment via email, Faber did not back away from his statements to CNBC. "If stating some historical facts makes me a racist, then I suppose that I am a racist. For years, Japanese were condemned because they denied the Nanking massacre," he told CNBC in an email. watch now Britain's finance minister denied that talks between the U.K. and the European Union were deadlocked and said it was clumsy to call EU negotiators "the enemy." Philip Hammond told CNBC on Monday that he didn't think the talks had stalled between the two sides, raising the prospect of "no deal" scenario at the end of the U.K.'s two-year Brexit negotiating period, in March 2018. "The real interests of the parties are so blindingly obviously in the best interest of both the U.K. and the European Union 27 (the other countries in the EU) that we do reach a deal so that we can carry on trading together," he said, adding, "but I'm confident we will get to a deal." Despite Hammond's confidence, the two sides appeared to reach an impasse recently over unresolved issues, particularly over the so-called "divorce bill" with uncertainty around the extent of the U.K.'s outstanding financial obligations to the EU. The EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier said last week that other issues including the Northern Irish/Irish border and EU citizens' rights have yet to be spelled out in detail by the U.K. either. As such, there had not been enough progress to move onto the next stage of talks specifically, a trade deal between the U.K. and EU which is what Britain wants to focus on. watch now Hammond caused controversy last Friday after he branded Brussels "the enemy" during an interview in Washington, a comment he later apologized for. Speaking to CNBC in the U.S., where he was attending meetings at the International Monetary Fund, Hammond said that it was a clumsy comment and insisted there was a "constructive" relationship with negotiators in the EU. "Actually the relationship is very constructive (and) I talk to my European counterparts all the time. What I was doing rather clumsily in Washington was trying to make a reference to the infighting on our own side and that we need to leave that behind But the relationship is good, it's a positive relationship." Hammond said that the negotiation process, rather than its substance, was the problem. "So the biggest sticking point of the moment is process. The European Union have decided on a process to follow. And it's become apparent that that process isn't going to facilitate the most effective negotiation," he said. "I think there are people on both sides that say 'let's break out of this, let's just get round the table and start looking at what the options are to move forward about a transition period about a long term trade deal' rather than being locked in this rigid sequence that we have to settle one thing before we start talking about the next," he said. Ahead of the U.K.'s referendum on EU membership in June 2016, Hammond campaigned to remain in the political and economic bloc leading many ardent "Brexiteers" in the U.K. to accuse him of trying to sabotage the talks now. watch now U.S. President Donald Trump makes a statement on the administration's strategy for dealing with Iran, in the Diplomatic Reception Room in the White House, October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. Goldman Sachs said Tuesday that while clashes in the Kurdistan region of Iraq posed a risk to oil output, intensifying geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran remained a more formidable and longer-term threat to global oil supply. After several weeks of fairly flat trade, a risk premium has returned to oil markets and boosted global prices. On Monday, Iraqi forces moved into the oil-rich province of Kirkuk threatening oil supplies while political tensions between the U.S. and Iran continued to reverberate. "In the case of Iran, there are likely no immediate impacts on oil flows and there remains high uncertainty on potential reintroduction of U.S. secondary sanctions. If they are, we expect that several hundred thousand barrels of Iranian exports would be immediately at risk," analysts at Goldman Sachs said in a research note published Tuesday. On Friday, President Donald Trump had refused to certify that Tehran was complying with the terms of a landmark 2015 agreement aimed at controlling Iran's nuclear program. Instead, he asked lawmakers to toughen the agreement, negotiated between Iran and six world powers, by amending a U.S. law. At the same time, the U.S. administration will try to convince European leaders to impose new sanctions on Tehran and return to the negotiating table. In the absence of support from other countries, Goldman suggested it is unlikely production would fall by 1 million barrels per day to the levels before Western sanctions were imposed on Tehran. The "Southwest Effect" may not be much of a problem for Hawaiian Airlines its CEO, Mark Dunkerley, said Tuesday on CNBC's "Closing Bell." The phrase refers to a pattern where nonstop fares are roughly $45 lower on routes serviced by Southwest Airlines than those that are not, according to a University of Virginia study. Low-cost carrier Southwest recently revealed that it plans to start selling tickets for service to Hawaii next year. But Hawaiian Airlines' Dunkerley said he believes the "Southwest Effect" to be most prominent on less competitive routes. He explained that Hawaiian already competes with many other carriers, especially on flights departing from major airports like Los Angeles. "It's a very competitive marketplace. Adding one more competitor into that marketplace is unlikely to have the kind of effect of adding a competitor when a carrier is sitting on a monopoly, for example," he said. The CEO said that Hawaiian has a lot of confidence in its business model. "There is no carrier that is better positioned than we are and we think that doesn't change when United adds capacity, as they're intending to do in 2018, and it won't change when Southwest or any other carrier comes in," Dunkerley said. Hawaiian shares, however, have fallen 30 percent so far this year. But Dunkerley said investors should focus on the stock's longer-term gains. The shares have surged 198 percent in the last three years. Dunkerley said that, in the past, Hawaiian has responded well to increased competition in service to the vacation hotspot. "What we're looking at now is far from unprecedented. Two, three years ago, we had at that time Alaska Airlines move in very aggressively into the marketplace. When the dust settled, our market share went up and our margins went up," Dunkerley said. CNBC's Leslie Josephs contributed to this report. IBM stock rose after the company released better-than-expected earnings for the third quarter of the year on Tuesday. EPS : Excluding certain items, $3.30 in earnings per share vs. $3.28 in earnings per share as expected by analysts, according to Thomson Reuters. : Excluding certain items, $3.30 in earnings per share vs. $3.28 in earnings per share as expected by analysts, according to Thomson Reuters. Revenue: $19.15 billion vs. $18.6 billion as expected by analysts, according to Thomson Reuters. IBM came close to stopping the drought of revenue growth that lasted for 21 quarters, but didn't manage to do that in the end. IBM revenue has now declined for 22 quarters in a row. Still, the stock went up more than 3 percent in after-hours trading shortly after the earnings beat. Subsequently, during the company's call with financial analysts, IBM stock was trading 5 percent above the closing price of $146.54. In terms of guidance, IBM expects to finish the calendar year with at least $13.80 in earnings per share, the company said in a statement. Analysts were expecting $13.75 in earnings per share for the entire year, according to Thomson Reuters. IBM continues to look to its strategic imperatives -- analytics, cloud, mobile and security -- for growth that can counteract the decline of legacy parts of its business, and that segment delivered $8.8 billion in revenue, up 11 percent year over year. Almost 46 percent of all of the company's revenue for the quarter came from its strategic imperatives, in fact. Cantor Fitzgerald analysts Joseph Foresi and Michael Reid had previously predicted strategic imperatives would contribute about 47 percent of Big Blue's third-quarter revenue. Cloud revenue, including cloud delivered as a service, for the quarter was $4.1 billion, up 20 percent from last year. IBM said it had a $9.4 billion annual revenue run rate for cloud delivered as a service based on third-quarter revenue, up 7 percent from $8.8 billion in the second prior quarter and up 25 percent year over year. Across all five of IBM's main business segments, the company beat analysts' estimates on revenue, according to StreetAccount. IBM's Technology Services and Cloud Platforms business segment did $8.5 billion in revenue in the quarter, down 3 percent year over year, while Cognitive Solutions segment brought in $4.4 billion in revenue, up 4 percent. IBM's Global Business Services segment produced $4.09 billion in revenue, down 2 percent, and its Systems segment got $1.72 billion in revenue, up 10 percent. In the third quarter, IBM said it was committing to back an artificial intelligence research lab in conjunction with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The company also announced a collaboration around blockchain technology with Dole, Kroger, Unilever and Walmart, among other companies. IBM stock is down 11.5 percent since the beginning of the year. The company's customer engagement and security businesses "have a hot hand" and should contribute to revenue growth in the fourth quarter, IBM CFO Martin Schroeter told analysts during the conference call. The Iraqi national army swiftly took control of oil fields in disputed territory on Monday and Tuesday, largely avoiding clashes with Kurdish forces, news reports said. Despite the mostly bloodless transfer, analysts warn that oil supplies in OPEC's second-largest producer are far from secure. The fields came back under federal control during an operation launched by Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who sought to reassert Baghdad's authority after the semiautonomous Iraqi Kurdistan region held an independence referendum three weeks ago. The Kurds took control of large swaths of land in northern Iraq in 2014 after Iraqi forces fled an assault by ISIS militants. "There is no stable equilibrium that has emerged out of this, although the oil will flow over the short term," said Ayham Kamel, head of Eurasia Group's Middle East and North Africa practice. Iraqi Kurdistan and disputed areas Source: U.K. Home Office The uncertainty has helped to push international back above $58 a barrel toward its 2017 high. U.S. crude has traded around $52 a barrel, coming within 50 cents of a six-month high on Monday. The Iraqi forces took over the provincial capital Kirkuk, nearby oil fields and other sites on Monday, Reuters reported. By Tuesday, the army held the key Bai Hassan and Avana oil fields outside Kirkuk. Forces aligned with Baghdad also had control of Sinjar, a city near Iraq's northern border with Syria that straddles several oil fields. On Monday, it was unclear whether Kurdish military forces known as Peshmerga would fight to hold Bai Hassan and Avana, which are capable of producing about 280,000 barrels a day. Peshmerga aligned with the opposition party Patriotic Union of Kurdistan had allowed the Iraqi military's advance earlier that day. But Bai Hassan and Avana were held by the Kurdistan Democratic Party, which is loyal to Kurdish president Masoud Barzani, raising concerns they would fight to keep them. U.S. crude two-day performance Source: Factset "The worst of the crisis is over, but there are many tension points that will emerge in the future, and we don't have any viable relationship to reach an agreement," Kamel said. Absent an agreement among the Kurdish political parties and Baghdad, Iraq's oil flows will not be stable, he said. Crude oil from Iraqi Kurdistan and the disputed areas flows through the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline controlled by the Kurds. Another pipeline to Turkey operated by Baghdad has been repeatedly bombed by ISIS militants and will take several years and hundreds of millions of dollars to repair, according to RBC Capital Markets. "Hence, these fields changing hands could mean that these barrels end up being stranded if Baghdad and Erbil cannot conclude a pipeline access and a revenue sharing agreement which could prove to be a tall order in the current environment," Helima Croft, global head of commodity strategy at RBC, said in a research note. Erbil is the capital of Kurdistan. The high-value and low-cost oil from the Kirkuk region creates an incentive for both sides to keep oil flowing, Goldman Sachs said in a note. Parents can come up with some quirky pieces of advice when you most need them, but none more so than the mother of Winnie Byanyima. "My mother always told me, 'Winnie, you should be able to do any kind of job, except one which breaks one of the Ten Commandments,'" said Oxfam International's executive director. A proud Catholic woman, Byanyima's mother instilled in her the belief that she was capable of anything, including "cleaning floors, scrubbing toilets, or flying a plane." Bloomberg | Contributor | Getty Images Today, Byanyima has one of the most diverse resume's in the world. From refugee to aeronautical engineer, political activist to diplomat, and now executive director at Oxfam International, Byanyima has fought for justice throughout her varied career. But it's her mother's advice growing up in Uganda that has always stayed with her. "I'm ready to do any kind of work, as long as it absorbs my passion for making a just world and equal world," Byanyima told CNBC in an episode of Life Hacks Live. "My mother's advice is, 'Don't ever despise any kind of work. Every job that is improving humanity, the state of humanity, is worth doing.'" Byanyima's mother, who passed away almost nine years ago, left her job as a primary school teacher to raise her seven children. She grew all the family's food and sewed her children's clothes, while also selling the clothing in the local markets in Uganda. She went on to retrain and become a businesswoman, eventually opening a hardware store. "She always believed that the sky was the limit for herself and her children," said Byanyima. "That's why I am who I am because she'd never gave me an option to say, 'Oh I can't do maths, I'm a girl,' I had to be the best." "I could not give myself a pass and say this is tough. You had to show her that you've tried, and you've tried your best and you've done your bit. She taught me to believe in myself to claim equality and to dream big," added Byanyima. Kazakhstan wants to enter the cryptocurrency market with its own fiat-backed digital asset. The country's government-supported Astana International Finance Center (AIFC) said Tuesday it had signed a deal of cooperation with Maltese firm Exante. In a press release, Exante, which calls itself a "next generation investment company," said it would work with the AIFC to develop the ex-Soviet nation's untapped cryptocurrency market. "Blockchain and cryptocurrencies are entering the mainstream of today's economic reality," Kairat Kelimbetov, governor of the Astana International Finance Center, said in the press release Tuesday. "Astana's leading financial regulators have already commenced their work and are laying the foundation for Kazakhstan's fintech-ecosystem. We believe that the AIFC can become an international hub for blockchain operations and the development of the digital assets market is our key priority in the near future." Vice President Mike Pence as US President Donald Trump speaks. Brendan Smialowski | AFP | Getty Images Trump once joked about Pence wanting to "hang" gay people Pence's intense religious views have made him the butt of Trump's jokes, according to Mayer's piece. She details a moment when Trump made fun of Pence's desire to get rid of the abortion protections in the landmark Roe v. Wadedecision and said his vice president wanted to "hang" gay people: During a meeting with a legal scholar, Trump belittled Pence's determination to overturn Roe v. Wade. The legal scholar had said that, if the Supreme Court did so, many states would likely legalize abortion on their own. "You see?" Trump asked Pence. "You've wasted all this time and energy on it, and it's not going to end abortion anyway." When the conversation turned to gay rights, Trump motioned toward Pence and joked, "Don't ask that guy he wants to hang them all!" Pence's religion has also seeped into the White House, Mayer reports. Pence organizes a Bible study in the White House led by evangelical pastor Ralph Drollinger, who has written that women should "submit" to their husbands, described homosexuality as a "sin," and called Catholicism a "false religion." Administration members who attend include Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, CIA Director Mike Pompeo, and Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Mayer writes. Pence is a Koch loyalist and he's not the only one in the White House During the 2016 primaries, one of Trump's main attacks on his Republican opponents was that they were "puppets" of the Koch brothers, accepting donations from the billionaires. A billionaire himself, Trump made a point of saying he didn't need to accept donations from anyone else. He ultimately did, accepting more than $79 million in Super PAC money, but the Kochs made a point not to donate to his presidential campaign. Pence has been closely affiliated with the Koch brothers since he was a Congress member from Indiana. He helped boost the "No Climate Tax" pledge by their political advocacy group, Americans for Prosperity, convincing other politicians to sign on. Many of Pence's former political staffers have gone on to work for Koch Industries and their affiliated advocacy groups, and some have come back to work in the White House; a former Pence staffer named Marc Short now serves as the head of legislative affairs in the White House, and has close ties to the Koch brothers. Pence also helped boost Cabinet members including DeVos and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt, both Koch favorites. Democrats and Steve Bannon alike have openly complained about the Kochs' influence on Pence. The vice president is, as the saying goes, only a heartbeat away from the presidency. Contemplating the possibility of Pence as president, Bannon told Mayer, "I'm concerned he'd be a president that the Kochs would own." Pence pushed out those who challenged him Magic Leap said on Tuesday it has received an additional $502 million in funding. The announcement confirms a report from last month that said the company was about to secure new funds from, among other players, Temasek, a company based in Singapore. Janus Henderson Investors and Grupo Globo also contributed to the D-round of investments. Magic Leap is an extremely secretive company that is aiming to produce a new sort of virtual reality experience, though little is known about the project or how it works. The company, founded in 2010, has never given a broad public demonstration of its technology. It will likely compete directly with Microsoft's Mixed Reality products and other VR initiatives, such as Facebook's Oculus Rift and the HTC Vive. The company had previously raised more than $1 billion in venture funding from high-profile investors such as Alibaba, Alphabet 's Google Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz. Talks to revise the North American Free Trade Agreement will go into next year amid clashes over how best to change the deal, top officials said Tuesday. In a joint statement following the fourth round of talks, officials from the U.S., Canada and Mexico said "significant conceptual gaps" will change the negotiating time frame. The countries will schedule more negotiating rounds "through the first quarter of 2018" after new proposals "created challenges," the officials announced. The three countries wanted to renegotiate the deal before the end of the year. A fifth round of negotiations in Mexico City will be delayed until Nov. 17 so negotiators can consider the proposals. After the round of talks concluded, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told reporters that the U.S. is not taking active steps to withdraw from NAFTA despite the disagreements. He added that he will consult with President Donald Trump about the next steps. A joint statement Tuesday from Lighthizer, Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo and Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland following a meeting highlighted progress and the desire to reach a deal to rework the agreement. But individual remarks delivered after the joint statement were decidedly more pessimistic about finding common ground. "Frankly, I am surprised and disappointed by the resistance to change by our negotiating partners on both fronts," Lighthizer said. Some proposals put forward would "turn back the clock" and potentially "run counter" to World Trade Organization rules, Freeland said. Guajardo, for his part, said that in order to reach a "fruitful" agreement, "we must understand that we all have limits." watch now As I scooped here, Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen is expected to visit President Donald Trump at the White House as soon as this week to discuss the Fed chair job. Yellen remains unlikely to get the nod for a second term for several reasons but her renomination is not impossible. The case for Trump renominating Yellen is really not that hard to make: She's as dovish a candidate as self-proclaimed "low rates guy" Trump has on his list of finalists. The markets would love status quo at the Fed and Trump loves his market rally. Does he really want the possible sell-off that could follow picking a hawkish candidate like Stanford's John Taylor? If he renominated Yellen, Trump would also win a bunch of love from Senate Democrats, who he may need on tax reform, while his base probably wouldn't care that much. After all, while some of his hardcore nationalist base cares about the Fed and distrusts it as a "globalist" institution, it is far from their animating issue. Trump would probably get a day or two of bad headlines in Breitbart if he renominated Yellen but that's probably about it. Senate Republicans, especially on the banking committee, would hate a Yellen renomination. But Trump does not really care about how Republicans react to his decisions. watch now It's also very difficult, if not impossible, to imagine Senate Republicans rejecting Yellen for a second term. Doing so would infuriate the president and rock markets. If Yellen gets renominated she's likely to get confirmed quite easily. Still, as one administration official told me on Tuesday, it remains highly unlikely that Trump sticks with the current Fed chair for one main reason: Former President Barack Obama, who nominated Yellen as the first female Fed chair in 2013. If anything animates Trump's decision-making it's reversing anything Obama has done from health care to immigration to economic policy. Yellen is likely to benefit from being the last candidate Trump speaks to about the Fed chair job. But it seems unlikely to many close to the process that she can win over Trump enough to overcome his instinct to dismantle the Obama legacy in every area he possibly can. So put the odds of a Yellen renomination at somewhere around 25 percent, if not lower. That leaves Taylor, Fed Governor Jay Powell (a favorite of Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin), former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh and National Economic Council Director Gary Cohn on the short list. If there is a dark horse candidate, nobody knows who it is. Both Taylor and Warsh had strong interviews with Trump, but sources say both Mnuchin and Trump are concerned about Warsh's age. At 47, he'd be one of the younger Fed chairs in history and Trump typically likes august, silver-haired types. That's partly why Taylor is rising in the betting line and Warsh is receding somewhat. Speculation that Trump could go with Warsh as chair and Taylor or Powell as vice chair persist. It's not clear, however, that either would settle for the No. 2 slot Warsh definitely would not. No decision on the Fed chair job is expected to come down this week. Trump still needs to have his meeting with Yellen then sit down with senior staff and Mnuchin to make the final call. That could happen next week or slip toward the end of October or early November. But probably not later than that. The White House wants to get the decision out of the way and ensure that a hearing and confirmation vote can take place before Yellen's term ends in February. watch now North Korea is so weak its economy might not last long under tough United Nations sanctions, a high-ranking defector said Monday in his first public speaking engagement in the U.S. The former insider's view of dictator Kim Jong Un's oppressive regime comes just as North Korea's deputy U.N. ambassador stepped up the tough talk. "Nuclear war may break out any moment," Kim In Ryong said Monday. But North Korea may just be bluffing. "I don't know if North Korea will survive a year [under] sanctions. Many people will die," said Ri Jong Ho, a former senior North Korean economic official. He was speaking through a translator at the Asia Society in New York. Tweet "There is not enough to eat there" and the sanctions have "completely blocked" trade, he said, forcing the government to send tens of thousands of laborers overseas. Ordinary North Korean households have no electricity, he added, while the capital city only gets three to four hours a day. Ri was last posted in Dalian, China, where he helped run Office 39, a secret organization responsible for obtaining cash for the ruling Kim family. Ri also won the highest civilian honor in the dictatorship. But after a series of purges, he defected with his family in late 2014 and now lives in the greater Washington, D.C. area. The defector painted his birth country as one in dire straits. China, North Korea's largest trade partner, is "very upset" with the rogue state for not reforming its economy and instead "begging" its giant neighbor for food, Ri said. On the other hand, Ri said, North Korean leaders met with Russian President Vladimir Putin but diplomacy "was not as easy as it might have been thought." Kim is also offended that he has never met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi also once chose to visit the southern part of the peninsula before the north. During a 2014 meeting with North Korean officials, Kim Jong Un called Xi a "son of a b----" and the Chinese "sons of b------," Ri said, adding that there is fear China will "betray" North Korea. As a result, building a relationship with the United States is the rogue state's primary focus. Ri likened Kim's war of words with President Donald Trump to a "child and adult dispute." The dictator thinks help from the U.S. will enable him to solidify his leadership, just as North Koreans generally think alliance with the U.S. helped South Korea prosper, Ri said. "North Korea is very fearful of South Korea." To address its insecurities, North Korea fires missile after missile. Invariably, the world worries about the pariah state's growing nuclear threat and China repeatedly calls for dialogue. Ri, however, said he sees the solution as more than simply gathering together for talks. When negotiating, the parties need to know what they want, which is far from the case here due to lack of understanding on both sides, Ri said. In order to successfully turn the situation around, foreign diplomats need to understand what is in Kim Jong Un's head and "change what he thinks." Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PG&E) employees work to fix downed power lines burned by wildfires in this aerial photograph taken above Santa Rosa, California, Oct. 12, 2017. Shares of California utility PG&E rose 7.51 percent Tuesday on word about a suspected arsonist arrested in Sonoma County. California's largest electric utility company has seen its stock drop nearly 18 percent since Oct. 9 amid concerns it could be found liable for the fires that have ravaged Northern California. More than 41 deaths have been blamed on the fires and dozens of people remain missing in Sonoma County alone. As of Tuesday, the cause of the current wildfires in Northern California remained "under investigation," according to Cal Fire. However, the Santa Rosa Press Democrat reported Monday that a 29-year-old man was arrested in Sonoma on Sunday afternoon. It said he "was seen leaving a creek bed where a fire was burning." Sonoma County Sheriff Robert Giordano confirmed Tuesday afternoon that an arson suspect was arrested Sunday. Overall, the wildfires have scorched more than 220,000 acres and destroyed an estimated 5,700 structures. PG&E said in an SEC filing Friday it has "$800 million in liability insurance for potential losses that may result from these fires. If the amount of insurance is insufficient to cover the Utility's liability or if insurance is otherwise unavailable PG&E Corporation's and the Utility's financial condition or results of operations could be materially affected." Analysts at JPMorgan, Wells Fargo and RBC Capital Markets have all reduced their price targets on PG&E shares recently. Christopher Turnure, an analyst at JPMorgan covering the stock, said in a note Sunday: "We assign a 75% chance of PCG being found liable for the Northern California wildfires." George Soros just gave most of his wealth to his charitable organization, the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. The billionaire philanthropist transferred $18 billion to Open Society Foundations, a sprawling international group of charities that works in more than 100 countries on projects focused on refugee relief, public health and many other topics. The $18 billion figure amounts to almost 80 percent of the financier's total net worth. Before the transfer, Soros had a net worth of $23 billion, according to a Forbes tally Tuesday. The site ranks him as the 29th wealthiest person in the world. The donation catapulted Open Society Foundations to the front ranks of American charities based on total assets, the Journal reported, citing 2014 data. The only American charity larger than Open Society, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is also funded by a famous billionaire. Soros began his charitable giving in 1979, nine years after launching Soros Fund Management, the hedge fund that would propel him into America's ultrawealthy. He has given away $12 billion in the four decades since, according to his official biography, available on his website. His first charitable work involved providing black South Africans with scholarships during the country's apartheid. During the Cold War, he provided photocopiers to people living in eastern Europe in order to reprint texts banned by communist governments. He has also underwritten the largest effort to integrate Europe's Roma, according to the biography available on his website. Soros and the Open Society Foundations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Russian President Vladimir Putin watches a military exercise at a training ground on Sept. 18, 2017 at Luzhsky range near Saint Petersburg, Russia. Mikhail Svetlov | Getty Images A high-profile dissident who could challenge Russian President Vladimir Putin in next year's election was recently imprisoned for the third time this year, following a series of apparent maneuvers by the Kremlin to keep him sidelined. That sidelining is part of an established pattern. The Russian administration possesses "lots of mechanisms they can use to sabotage candidates that they don't want," according to Gordon Smith, a professor emeritus at the University of South Carolina who specializes in Russian politics. And many of those tools have been put to use against the recently imprisoned lawyer and anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny who has been the victim of what experts describe as an elaborate system to silence and disarm. Understanding that suppression apparatus is key to understanding Putin's iron grip on his country. Red tape and reversed decisions Navalny, who last year expressed his desire to run for the 2018 election, was detained en route to a rally last month for allegedly holding an unsanctioned public meeting. The arrest rendered the opposition leader unable to attend the recent protests he had organized. The arrest was widely reported, but less known are the bureaucratic hurdles that hindered his campaign, according to a source in Navalny's office. One example: The rallies had actually been given the full go-ahead, according to the source. A few days prior to the event, however, authorities "called the local office and they pretty much revoked the approval," the source said. "They then considered this an unsanctioned event." Navalny has traditionally ignored location restrictions when holding public meetings, which renders his rallies technically unauthorized, according to Smith. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny at a mass march on the one-year anniversary of dissident Boris Nemtsov's killing on Feb. 27, 2016 in Moscow, Russia. Mikhail Svetlov | Getty Images But while Russian authorities are legally allowed to prohibit a sanctioned rally, last-minute plan changes often frustrate and weaken potential dissidents. "In many cities, especially after the first two very successful weekends, people started to just deny our right to gather, [saying] all the squares are busy, or ... 'You can only meet at 9 a.m. on the outskirts,'" the Navalny ally told CNBC. Russian authorities did not respond to a request for comment for this story. According to Smith, the permit to hold a rally is highly location dependent, and constitutes a way for the Kremlin to exercise control over public demonstrations. Organizers are told they "can't hold their demonstrations in the major, most visible squares or streets ... they get pushed to the outskirts of town," he said. The power of vague laws This isn't the first time Navalny has been imprisoned, and that pattern is widely perceived as evidence the Kremlin is working to subdue him. In 2013, Navalny was charged for embezzlement following a hearing deemed unfair by the European Court of Human Rights. He was reportedly not allowed to bring in witnesses or to testify. And although the Russian court retried the case in February on orders from the ECHR, it "came to the very same conclusions using all the same evidence ... He still didn't have the right to bring witnesses," Smith said. The evidence for Navalny's embezzlement charge was "extremely flimsy," according to Jeffery Mankoff, deputy director of the Russia and Eurasia program at policy research organization CSIS. "Both the charges and the conviction, which allowed the Kremlin to prevent Navalny from appearing on the ballot and led to the jailing of his brother, were politically motivated," Mankoff told CNBC, adding that it was "an attempt to prevent Navalny from establishing himself as a political challenger to Putin." "[Navalny] creates a real dilemma for the Putin administration," Smith concurred. watch now Authorities claim Navalny is ineligible to run for office because of the conviction. However, an unusual waiver likely granted due to the thin evidence against him allows him to be out on appeal. That complicates matters, according to Smith. Although Russian election law says a person serving time in prison is not eligible to run for presidency, a negated sentence may technically mean he is eligible to run, Smith said. "The law is written in such a way that it is vague and is open to interpretation, and the interpretation then rests with the judges," he explained. That said, Russian judges are generally unwilling to make decisions that contradict the will of Putin and the rest of the ruling elite, he added. 'A focal point for discontent' The president has strong reason to dislike Navalny, a vocal critic of him and of alleged corruption within his inner circles. The activist's anti-corruption campaign is not only winning over young urban voters, but it's "also potentially popular with rank and file, blue collar workers, or even people out in the countryside," according to Smith. Navalny's efforts to publicize his rallies on social media are now reaching unprecedented rates of up to 26,000 unique viewers a day, making the authorities "really afraid," the source in his office said. Thousands attend an anti-Kremlin rally called by opposition leader Alexei Navaln in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on October 7, 2017. Valya Egorshin | NurPhoto | Getty Images Saudi Arabia has been accused of trying to engineer a change of power in the neighboring gulf state of Qatar. Qatar has endured a four-month economic embargo imposed by a group of fellow Gulf Cooperation Council countries, including Saudi Arabia. The alliance has accused Qatar of allying with Iran in the support of terrorism. Qatari Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told CNBC Tuesday that Saudi Arabia is currently trying to destabilize the leadership of Qatar. "We see (Saudi) government officials talking about regime change. We see officials inciting the people to go and protest their government, so it is about regime change," he said. "We see a country that is bringing back the dark ages of tribes and putting them together in order to create a pressure on connected tribes in Qatar," the minister added. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Bahrain have cut all ties, including transport links, with Qatar, accusing it of allying with Iran in support of terrorism. Doha denies the accusation. Al Thani said the intention of the alliance of blockading countries was in fact not to curtail terrorism, but more to "disrespect and bully." "It is nothing to do with stopping financing terrorism or hate speech while they are doing the same by promoting incitement against my country, promoting a regime change in my country," he said. The deal would also give states flexibility on what kinds of health plans could be sold in individual states, and would reportedly allow people over age 30 to buy less expensive and less comprehensive catastrophic health insurance plans. The deal also would allocate money for states to promote enrollment in health coverage. Alexander said the bipartisan deal which would have to be approved by Congress would reinstate the cost-sharing reduction reimbursement payments to Obamacare plans for two years. "This agreement avoids chaos," Alexander said on the Senate floor. "I don't know a Republican or Democrat who benefits from chaos." Trump's move, coupled with an executive order he signed Thursday, is widely expected to harm the Obamacare markets. It was already leading to higher premium prices for individual health plans next year. A Republican senator said he has reached a tentative deal with a Democratic counterpart to provide a short-term stabilization fix to Obamacare health insurance markets, NBC News reported. And it would allow for the creation of "interstate compacts" for the purchase of health coverage. There is no guarantee that Alexander and Murray, who have been discussing a possible deal for the past month, will be able to win approval for their agreement from either the rest of Congress, or from Trump. "We are willing to work with Congress to reach a legislative solution," a White House official told CNBC. "We will not provide bailouts to insurance companies until we provide the American people with relief from the Obamacare disaster," that official said. Murray said senators are still "ironing out a few of the last details right now" about the bill. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., saying "I want to salute both Lamar Alexander and Patty Murray," called it "a good solution." "It stabilizes the system," said Schumer. "There's a growing consensus that in the short term, we need stability in the markets." Schumer said the bill includes "anti-sabotage" provisions to counteract the "sabotaging" of Obamacare that Trump has engaged in. "This agreement would undo much of that sabotage," Schumer said. Marc Short, White House director of legislative affairs, told NBC News that the deal in its current form is not close to being something that the Trump administration would accept. Short said the administration would want much more than the flexibility being offered to individual states. During a White House news conference Tuesday, Trump said, "We have been involved" in the Alexander-Murray deal. He added that it could "get us over the hump." "This is a short-term deal, because we think, ultimately, block grants going to the states is going to be the answer," Trump said. He was referring to the block grant system that was contained in a failed Obamacare replacement bill last month, that would have given states money directly to set up their own health coverage systems for individuals. Trump said there currently is "this very dangerous little period, including [a] dangerous period for insurance companies." Trump's repeated threats to end the CSR payments had already triggered higher insurance premium rates in a number of states for 2018 even before he followed through on those threats. Caroline Pearson, a senior vice president at the Avalere Health consultancy, said she was "not particularly optimistic that some congressional action can save the day here." "It's too late in terms of timing. Just because they've announced a deal they don't have the votes," Pearson said. "They've had trouble producing the votes in the past." "Open enrollment begins" Nov. 1, Pearson noted. "We're just sort of out of time. And the question is could we throw everything into a big scramble in December and try to get it sorted out in January." Trump's decision last Thursday to end the reimbursement directly led to higher premium rates in some states, with more expected in coming days. Pennsylvania insurance regulators on Monday approved Obamacare rates that on average will be 30.6 percent higher next year with the biggest chunk of that boost due to Trump's move. Obamacare customers in Pennsylvania had been on track to face rates that were about 7.6 percent higher on average before Trump ended the cost-sharing reduction reimbursement payments. In Colorado, Obamacare customers are looking at rates that will be at least 6 percent higher than the original 27 percent hike because of the move. And in Alaska, where rates were actually set to drop by more than 26 percent next year, the Trump CSR decision means that the actual drop in rates will end up being 20 to 22 percent, according to a leading Obamacare rate tracker. One outlier so far is North Dakota, whose insurance commissioner on Tuesday said he would not let Obamacare insurers readjust their rates upward for 2018 despite Trump's move. North Dakota recently had seen the insurer Medica drop out of the Obamacare market for next year because regulators would not let Medica submit proposed rates assuming the CSRs would stop being paid. "There are a lot of people who are going to get hurt" by the president's decision, said Charles Gaba, who operates the Obamacare data site ACASignups.net. "It just depends on their state, really," Gaba said. He said his projections show that, on average, Obamacare plans of all types nationally will cost about 14 percent more than they otherwise would have because of the ending of the CSR payments. With the CSR cut assumed, Gaba said, rates will be 30 percent higher on average. Without it, they would have been 15 or 16 percent higher, he said. However, as Gaba noted, the actual price hikes paid by customers will depend on where they live, in large part. Most Obamacare customers who receive subsidies that reduce their monthly premiums will be insulated from the price hikes, either largely or completely, because those subsidies rise as premiums rise. However, nonsubsidized customers face the full brunt of the price hikes. Some states have taken steps to protect those customers by limiting the CSR-related price increases only to so-called silver plans which are the only type of plans that offer CSR discounts. Other states have limited the CSR-related price increases only to plans sold on Obamacare exchanges plans sold outside of those marketplaces do not have the CSR-affected prices. Negotiations by Alexander and Murray were jump-started last Thursday when the Trump administration said it would immediately cease paying the CSRs. The reimbursements are meant to compensate insurers for discounts that they must by law offer to low-income Obamacare customers for out-of-pocket health costs, including copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. Trump had threated for months to kill the resimbursements to insurers, which would have left them holding the bag financially for the cost of those discounts. On Thursday, his administration made good on those threats after Attorney General Jeff Sessions said the payments were illegal, given the lack of explicit appropriation of them by Congress. The reimbursements would have been worth about $10 billion to insurers next year. Avalere Health on Tuesday estimated that insurers will lose $1 billion in CSR payments through the end of 2017 as a result of Trump's decision. Because of Trump's threats, a number of insurers, such as North Carolina's Blue Cross and Blue Shield, had asked for premium price increases next year that were as much as 20 percent or so higher than they otherwise have been. BCBC later dropped that request to 14.1 percent but 5.3 percentage points of that was still due to uncertainty over the CSRs. Other insurers, notably Anthem, dropped out of a number of states because of uncertainty over the CSR payments. Some states told insurers to file two sets of proposed rates: one assuming the CSRs continued being paid, the other assuming they would be cut off. California was one of those states. And last week, even before Trump's decision to end the CSRs, California's Obamacare market imposed a 12.4 percent surcharge on its most popular type of individual health plans to cushion insurers for the possibility of the payments being ended. California is one of 14 states that, along with the District of Columbia, operates their own Obamacare marketplace. People in the rest of the country can buy Obamacare plans on HealthCare.gov, the federally run insurance exchange. Caitlin Oakley, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Health and Human Services Department, said, "Insurers in the vast majority of states on the federal exchange submitted rates for the upcoming plan year assuming that CSR payments would not be made, so no rate adjustment is needed." Oakley said the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which oversees HealthCare.gov, "is working on a case-by-case basis with those states where regulators explicitly required insurers to assume CSR payments would be made." Lori Lodes, a former top HHS official, told CNBC on Tuesday that the series of actions by the Trump administration to undercut the Obamacare markets has led to widespread confusion among Obamacare customers and potential customers. Lodes said some people believe that Obamacare, which requires most Americans to have some form of health coverage or pay a fine, is no longer the law of the land. Others mistakenly believe that cost-sharing discounts to customers have ended when in fact only the reimbursements to insurers who offer those discounts are going away, she said. Because of this confusion, Lodes said, "there is zero question that it's going to depress enrollment" in Obamacare plans in 2018. "The question is, can we do enough to limit the damage from it," she said. Lodes and other former Obama administration officials recently launched a group, Get America Covered, to counteract what they have called sabotage of the health-care law by the Trump administration. On Tuesday, Get America Covered distributed a poll from Hart Associates that underscored the widespread confusion about health insurance options that persists among many Americans. The poll found that just 31 percent of people who have Obamacare plans sold by a government-run marketplace know that open enrollment in plans for 2018 begins Nov. 1. Just 12 percent of uninsured people are aware of that date. Only about half of the insured customers were aware of the fact that they qualify for a federal tax credit that lowers their monthly premiums, and just 15 percent of the uninsured respondents knew that, according to the poll. "In fact, just 41% of individuals currently insured through the marketplace are aware that they currently receive a tax credit," according to a report by Hart Associates, which conducted the poll for the Service Employees International Union. Lodes noted that the poll, which questioned 200 insured people and 200 uninsured people, was conducted a week before Trump made his decision to end the CSR payments. SoftBank 's much-anticipated investment in Uber could be agreed upon within a week, according to Arianna Huffington, one of the board members of the ride-hailing app. The Japanese giant run by Masayoshi Son is seeking to invest $10 billion into Uber for a fairly substantial stake. But so far, talks have hit roadblocks as both sides are yet to decide on the pricing of shares. Media mogul Huffington, who has been on Uber's board since April 2016, said on Monday that a deal would come "very likely in the next week." "We are waiting at the moment on what is going to transpire in terms of the price," Huffington said in an on-stage interview at the WSJ D.LIVE conference in California. SoftBank's investment will be $1 billion to $1.25 billion at the company's last reported valuation of $69 billion, sources told CNBC. SoftBank also hopes to buy a 14 to 17 percent stake of shares from existing shareholders at a discount, the sources said. Thus potentially bringing the stake to around $10 billion. Earlier this month, Uber's board voted to accept the investment from SoftBank. The Japanese giant has been writing big paychecks to start-ups across the world. If the investment in Uber goes through, it will likely be one of its largest to-date, and give the ride-hailing app some firepower to continue aggressively expanding. Uber has faced a rocky few months with founder Travis Kalanick stepping down as chief executive following a number of scandals. Former Expedia CEO Dara Khosrowshahi took the helm at Uber in August and has had to tackle more issues including a ban in London for the ride-hailing service, as well as battles in the boardroom with Kalanick. Huffington addressed the problems Uber faced under Kalanick, calling him "brilliant" but also admitting that the company's culture was wrong. "The problem was this worship at the altar of hyper growth, which means you forget to build the culture. Culture, we are now recognizing, is the immune system of a company We are recognizing that what happens in the culture is contributing to the bottom line," Huffington said. It takes a focused mind and steady nerves to trade in and out of Spanish banking stocks these days, with the continued tit-for-tat political broadsides firing back and forth between Barcelona and Madrid on almost a daily basis. Just two weeks since roughly two fifths of the population of the Spanish province of Catalonia voted overwhelmingly for independence in a referendum that Spanish judicial authorities had deemed illegal, there is still a marked lack of clarity on the region's future. And investors, like the many businesses that have shifted their headquarters out of Catalonia, rarely like uncertainty. Last Tuesday the Catalan president addressed the regional assembly of 135 lawmakers, and declared he had a mandate to declare Catalonia an independent republic. Standing outside the handsome 18th Century arsenal-turned-parliament in the Parc de la Ciutadella, you could hear celebratory shouts from the crowd several hundred yards away, blocked off by hundreds of local and national police. But just moments later, Puigdemont undercut his groundbreaking declaration, by requesting its suspension to allow for dialogue with Madrid. And while many lawmakers from his coalition willingly signed a document declaring independence that night, several notably did not then sign a corresponding document that formalized the suspension. Earlier in the day I had spoken to several Catalan lawmakers, who had anticipated a move like this. They pointed out that Puigdemont was caught between a rock and a hard place, since he must maintain the new-found momentum towards Catalan independence engendered by the previous weekend's referendum or risk losing control of his fractious coalition; but he had also to weigh that against the threats advanced by Madrid, suggesting that the central government would intervene with the involvement of security forces as required and suspend Catalonia's hard-won autonomy. Check out which companies are making headlines before the bell: UnitedHealth Group The nation's largest health insurer reported adjusted quarterly profit of $2.66 per share, ten cents a share above estimates. Revenue was slightly short of forecast, but the company is also predicting full-year profit of $10 per share, 13 cents a share better than consensus forecasts. Morgan Stanley The investment firm came in 12 cents a share above estimates, with quarterly profit of 93 cents per share. Revenue also topped forecasts. Morgan Stanley's results were boosted by healthy profit at its wealth management business. Johnson & Johnson The medical products and drugmaker reported adjusted quarterly profit of $1.90 per share, 10 cents a share above estimates. Revenue also beat forecasts amid strong results in its pharmaceutical unit. Johnson & Johnson also gave a full-year forecast that comes in above consensus. Harley-Davidson The motorcycle maker beat estimates by one cent a share, with quarterly profit of 40 cents per share. The company's revenue beat forecasts as well, but its profits were down more than 40 percent from a year earlier. Harley is seeing an ongoing drop in demand among baby boomer customers and a lack of younger people interested in riding motorcycles. Comerica The regional bank beat forecasts by six cents a share, with quarterly profit of $1.26 per share. Revenue also beat estimates. Comerica's results were helped by an increase in net interest income. Netflix Netflix posted adjusted quarterly profit of 37 cents per share, five cents a share above estimates. Revenue was essentially in line with forecasts. Netflix also posted better-than-expected subscriber growth, even as competition intensifies in the streaming video content market. Pearson Pearson boosted its full-year profit forecast, with the UK-based publisher saying pressures on its North American business have eased. Microsoft Microsoft's secret internal database was hacked in 2013, according to five former employees quoted by Reuters. The database is used for tracking software bugs and contained descriptions of unfixed vulnerabilities in Microsoft software, including its Windows operating system. Boeing Boeing is calling the Airbus purchase of a majority stake in Bombardier's CSeries jet program a "questionable deal between two heavily state-subsidized competitors." Boeing accuses its jet-making rivals of trying to skirt recent findings of unfair subsidies by the U.S. government. Procter & Gamble P&G said Nelson Peltz's bid to be elected to its board lost by 6.15 million votes, which amounts to about 0.2 percent of outstanding shares. The vote is now headed to a recount. Sonic Sonic reported adjusted quarterly profit of 45 cents per share, beating estimates by two cents a share. The restaurant chain's revenue was short of forecasts, however, and same-restaurant sales declined in a drop the company said was partly due to the impact of Hurricane Harvey. Garmin The company best known for its GPS devices introduced "Garmin Speak," which it said is the first in-vehicle device designed with hands-free access to Amazon's Alexa voice service. For many recent graduates, student loan debt is literally giving them nightmares. Over the last decade, college-loan balances in the United States have jumped to an all-time high of $1.4 trillion, according to a recent report by Experian. The average outstanding balance is $34,144, up 62 percent over the last 10 years. Those student loan payments have created an "unprecedented financial challenge" for borrowers, according to a new report by Gradifi, a Boston-based start-up that provides a student loan benefit platform for employers. To that point, 80 percent of working professionals with student loan debt said it is a source of "significant" or "very significant" stress, according to the survey of more than 3,000 Americans conducted online in May. Many millennials said that student loans have impacted their ability to go on vacation, buy a car, pay rent or get necessities like food and clothing. And then there are the long-term consequences: From buying a home to getting married and even having children, an increasing number of young adults are putting off major milestones because of that one large liability. Most of the people let go from Tesla so far have been from its motors business, said people familiar with the matter. They were not from other initiatives like Tesla Powerwall, which is helping restore electricity to the residents of Puerto Rico now. But one former employee, citing internal information shared by a manager, said the total number fired is higher than 700 at this point. On Friday, the San Jose Mercury News first reported that Tesla had dismissed an estimated 400 to 700 employees . That number represents between 1 and 2 percent of its entire workforce. Tesla is trying to disguise layoffs by calling the widespread terminations performance related, allege several current and former employees. The mass firings, which affected Tesla employees across the U.S., had begun by the weekend of Oct. 7 and continued even after the initial news report, sources said. Among those whose jobs were terminated in this phase, some were given severance packages quickly while others are still waiting on separation agreements. Some terminated employees told CNBC they were informed via email or a phone call "without warning," and told not to come into work the next day. The company also dismissed other employees without specifying a given performance issue, according to these people. "Seems like performance has nothing to do with it," one Tesla employee told CNBC under the condition of anonymity. "Those terminated were generally the highest paid in their position," this person said, suggesting that the firings were driven by cost-cutting. That assessment was echoed by several others, including three employees fired from Tesla during this latest wave. Tesla rates employees on a scale from 1 to 5. Two laid-off employees had achieved scores at or above 4 in past performance reviews with their managers, they said. During the performance review period before the mass firings, former employees said Tesla's general manager of services and operations, Karim Bousta, sent out a notice saying reviews had been delayed so employees could focus on ensuring a successful rollout of the Model 3. Tesla had no comment on these claims, but pointed to its previous statement on the firings, reiterating that they were performance related. Here's that statement: "Like all companies, Tesla conducts an annual performance review during which a manager and employee discuss the results that were achieved, as well as how those results were achieved, during the performance period. This includes both constructive feedback and recognition of top performers with additional compensation and equity awards, as well as promotions in many cases. As with any company, especially one of over 33,000 employees, performance reviews also occasionally result in employee departures. Tesla is continuing to grow and hire new employees around the world." The automaker, which has a market cap of $59 billion, is notoriously secretive. For example, Tesla forces new employees to sign confidentiality agreements to limit what they can say about the company's strategy and working conditions there. Some employees are challenging those accords in arbitration. These agreements can make it challenging for workers to air and resolve their grievances with Tesla, according to a prior complaint that the U.S. Labor Board filed against the company. As Goldman Sachs analysts and others have noted, Tesla has missed its targets for producing Model 3s. Analysts are concerned about the company's ability to make safe, high-quality Model 3s profitably. An employment attorney with prior experience suing Tesla, Therese Lawless, said: "You wonder, if they had all these bad employees making cars, do you really want to buy a Tesla now? It's very unusual to have a massive termination based on performance." Lawless represented AJ Vandermeyden, a woman and engineer who sued Tesla alleging sexual harassment and gender discrimination, who was soon thereafter fired by the company. SIOUX CITY, Iowa Sioux City area agencies have resumed searching the Missouri River for a car reportedly driven off a road into the water. The search was called off around 8 p.m. Monday because of darkness. Rescue crews had been sent to the scene near Larsen Park around 4:20 p.m. The searchers renewed their efforts Tuesday morning. Sioux City Fire Rescue Capt. Dave Ahlers says authorities aren't sure whether anyone was inside the car. A city news release says witnesses reported seeing a small, brown vehicle floating before going under the water's surface. watch now Didi Taihuttu, his wife, three kids and their cat bet all they have on bitcoin. The Dutch family of five is in the process of selling pretty much everything they own from their 2,500-square-foot house, to their shoes and trading it in for the popular cryptocurrency. They have moved to a campsite in the Netherlands, where they're waiting for bitcoin to really take off. It's only been a few months, but the 39-year-old father of three says he doesn't regret a thing. "We were just like sell it, sell it, what can we lose? Yeah, we can lose all the material stuff. Yeah, we can lose all our money. Yeah, we don't have three cars anymore. We don't have the motorcycle anymore. But in the end, I think we, as a family, will still be happy and just enjoying life." related investing news Cathie Wood's ARK Invest keeps buying more crypto assets despite FTX bankruptcy He once mined for bitcoin, but now only trades it, along with other cryptocurrencies like ether, ripple, neo, dogecoin and XLM. The family is still in the process of liquidating assets and investing the proceeds in cryptocurrencies as they go. The income from trading is enough for food and necessities, which the family says is all it needs right now. Source: Yolo FamilyTravel Taihuttu's brother, sister and in-laws call him crazy, but that hasn't stopped them from taking their experiment public. The Taihuttus are documenting their experience on social media, and they are even taking donations in bitcoin. "A lot of people have lost their faith in the current monetary system," he says. "And I think that cryptocurrency is a big alternative for those people." The family decided to make the gamble on bitcoin this summer, after seeing its swift climb this year. It's already surpassed $5,000 a coin, and Taihuttu thinks it could quadruple by 2020. Tom Lee, head of research at Fundstrat, has made the same prediction. In the last week, the value of outstanding bitcoin reached nearly $100 billion and surpassed the market value of Goldman Sachs. Some believe bitcoin's value will reach at least $1 trillion in less than a decade. But even with these kinds of returns, the fact remains, a speculative asset like bitcoin remains prone to seismic price moves in a very short space of time. We're going through a revolution that's changing the monetary system. Didi Taihuttu Campbell Harvey, a finance professor at Duke University, says this kind of volatility is brutal. "We're talking six times the volatility of the S&P 500 or five times the volatility of gold." He says it has to do with the fact that this is new technology, "and it's not easy to think about the fundamental value of a cryptocurrency." Those wild price swings are partly to do with the fact that cryptocurrencies aren't backed by an asset. They're valuable because people believe they're valuable. In September, JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon called bitcoin a "fraud," and billionaire investor Howard Marks says bitcoin is a "pyramid scheme." Bitcoin's volatility also has to do with uncertainty about government regulation. China and South Korea have enacted bans on new cryptocurrency sales. While the U.S. has yet to legislate hard and fast rules on bitcoin and other virtual currencies, the Securities and Exchange Commission warned in July that it might move to regulate new token sales. Despite the heightened scrutiny and a lot of sleepless nights, Taihuttu says he remains a devout bitcoin enthusiast. "Money has to evolve, and it's evolving now to cryptocurrency." The Yolo family Source: Yolo Family Taihuttu's strategy is risky. Adam White, general manager of GDAX, the largest U.S. cryptocurrency exchange, has said investors shouldn't take on more than they can afford to lose. But Taihuttu's motivation is about more than just cashing in on a big return; it's about taking part in a revolution that's transforming the world of money. "We're going through a revolution that's changing the monetary system. ... We are just lucky to realize that we are in the middle of it right now," he says. Digital assets like bitcoin or ethereum are built on a technology called blockchain, something experts believe is already changing the way we interact with money. Part of why blockchain the software powering bitcoin is so powerful is because it cuts out the need for a middleman entirely. That means you don't need a third party like a bank to clear your transactions. Instead, a decentralized network of miners all over the world handles the virtual accounting. The decentralization offered by blockchain also means that cryptocurrencies aren't tied to any one country or government. Some say this underlying technology holds even greater potential than the cryptocurrencies. For Taihuttu and his family that potential seems well worth the risk even if it means having to all sleep in the same room. "I was shocked," says Taihuttu's wife, Romaine. "I was like, 'What the hell is bitcoin and crypto coin?' It was a lot for me to handle. But then I got into it, and it made me believe it was a good change in our lives -- for my children, for my husband, and for myself." A gas flare on an oil production platform in the Soroush oil fields is seen alongside an Iranian flag in the Gulf. President Donald Trump may find it difficult to prevent Iran from selling its oil, a proven way to pressure the U.S. adversary, if he decides to renew sanctions on Tehran, analysts warn. The assessments come after Trump announced plans to toughen the terms of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which saw Tehran limit its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Trump said he will scrap the deal and restore the sanctions if he can't reach a solution with Congress and U.S. allies to address his problems with it. While close U.S. allies in Europe, South Korea and Japan would likely curtail oil purchases from Iran if Trump restores U.S. sanctions, Asian buyers like China and India may resist, analysts say. If sanctions do not prevent foreign firms from doing business with Iran, they are less likely to exert enough pressure to bring Iran back to the negotiating table. A comprehensive sanctions regime engineered by the U.S. Treasury Department had a devastating impact on Iran's economy and helped shrink its oil output by 1 million barrels a day through 2015. The effort began under President George W. Bush and intensified under President Barack Obama. President Donald Trump on Tuesday said Rep. Tom Marino withdrew from consideration for the nation's drug czar, following an investigation that detailed his role in pushing for a law that weakened DEA enforcement during a growing opioid crisis. Trump: Rep.Tom Marino has informed me that he is withdrawing his name from consideration as drug czar. Tom is a fine man and a great Congressman! A Washington Post and CBS investigation published Sunday described Marino as the "chief advocate" for a drug industry-friendly law that hobbled Drug Enforcement Administration efforts to fight the distribution of prescription narcotics. President Barack Obama signed the bill into law in April 2016. On Monday, Trump had said he would "make a change" if he felt Marino's nomination hurt his efforts to curb opioid abuse. Trump had tapped Marino, a Pennsylvania Republican and supporter of the president, to lead the Office of National Drug Control Policy. Lawmakers like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.V., had called for Trump to pull Marino's nomination following the report. Manchin, whose state has been hit heavily by the opioid crisis, said in a letter to Trump that Marino's support for the law shows he "either does not fully understand the scope and devastation of this epidemic or ties to the industry overrode those concerns." In a statement on the Senate floor Monday, Schumer said picking Marino for the position "is like putting the wolf in charge of the hen house." A spokesman for Marino did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment. More than 33,000 people died in 2015 from prescription opioids, heroin and fentanyl, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Post report said the law championed by Marino "makes it virtually impossible" for the DEA to freeze suspect narcotic shipments from drug companies. The agency previously had the power to do so and prevent suspicious shipments from reaching the streets, according to the newspaper. Many members of Congress and the White House did not truly know what the bill would do, said the Post, whose joint expose with CBS was aired on Sunday's "60 Minutes." [The stream is slated to start at 3 p.m., ET. Please refresh the page if you do not see a player above at that time.] Officials from the United States, Mexico and Canada speak on Tuesday as the latest round of North American Free Trade Agreement renegotiation talks ends. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo and Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland will speak to reporters together. They are expected to make separate comments later in the day. The Canadian and Mexican officials were expected to firmly reject U.S. proposals put forward during the current round of talks, two people briefed on the countries' positioning told CNBC. The U.S. neighbors will not walk away from the negotiating table, the people said. It remains to be seen how President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly slammed the 23-year-old trade agreement, will react to the position. Trump has threatened to scrap the free trade agreement if the countries cannot strike a deal to rework it. The fourth round of negotiations is concluding as the three nations push to meet a year-end deadline. Three additional rounds of talks are expected, for now. The final round had been slated for early December in Washington. Read more: Canada, Mexico to firmly reject US NAFTA proposals but will offer to keep negotiations going: Sources [The stream has ended] President Donald Trump on Tuesday delivered the keynote address at the Heritage Foundation's annual President's Club meeting. Trump praised the conservative nonprofit think tank for its work helping to shepherd the successful confirmation of Trump's nominee, now Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch, to the Supreme Court. Trump also laid out the case for a sweeping tax reform package currently being negotiated by Republicans on Capitol Hill. According to a recently released framework, the tax overhaul would include a double-digit reduction in the corporate income tax rate, a collapsing of individual tax brackets and the elimination of most itemized deductions. Airbus A380 performs an aerial demonstration over the Le Bourget Airport during the 52nd International Paris Air Show on June 22, 2017, in Paris, France. The Airbus A380 is so large that airports all over the world had to build special gates to accommodate the plane, which stands nearly eight stories tall and has a more than 250-foot wingspan. But the manufacturer of the double-decker jumbo jet is now making a high-profile bet on a plane less than half its size: the single-aisle, some 100-seat C Series Bombardier jet. Airbus announced late Monday that it would take a majority stake in Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier's C Series jet program. The Bombardier jets have been a thorn in the side of U.S. giant Boeing , which accused Bombardier of selling the planes to Delta Air Lines below the cost of production. The U.S. Commerce Department sided with Boeing in the dispute and recommended a tariff of 300 percent on the C Series jets. Delta has repeatedly said it will not pay the tariffs and will take delivery of the planes. The airline plans to buy at least 75 of the aircraft. The Bombardier planes haven't sold well, but Airbus at the helm of the C Series would more closely position the European company against archrival Boeing. It also speaks to a trend that is gripping not just Airbus but Boeing: Smaller is better. Airlines, including Delta and rival United , are ditching giant four-engine planes like the Boeing 747 in favor of more fuel-efficient models. Airlines are keen to save as much fuel as possible, even as fuel prices are still at historic lows. Boeing makes the two-engine Dreamliner, a long-range plane, while Airbus sells the twin-engine A350. Delta on Tuesday is unveiling the interior cabins of the A350, which it's rolling out to replace its aged Boeing 747s. The Airbus A380 which is flown by Air France, Emirates and Singapore Airlines, among others has been a tough sell for airlines as technology improves. It can seat more than 500 passengers, so it can be difficult to fill. Airbus recently suggested configuration changes, which include moving one of the double-decker aircraft's staircases to fit even more passengers inside. Last month, Airbus delivered 40 narrow-body A320 planes, seven A330s, seven A350 wide-body planes and only one A380. Microsoft rolled out its big new Windows 10 Fall Creators Update at 1 pm Eastern today. It includes plenty of new features, but the biggest is support for new Mixed Reality headsets that are sold by Microsoft partners including Samsung, Dell, Lenovo, HP and Acer. They're Microsoft's big take on virtual reality and provide a new way to interact with software, including games and apps. Users can virtually step inside Windows to take advantage of certain 360-degree experiences while wearing the special headsets. The Windows 10 Fall Creators update also adds quick access to Skype and Mail contacts, which can be pinned to the taskbar at the lower right-hand side of the screen. With a single click, you can begin to chat or Skype call someone. Microsoft also added new features to Cortana you can now use the voice assistant to shut down or restart your computer additional security functions, new changes to its Edge browser and more. Windows 10 users can find the update by searching for "Windows Update" from their computer and clicking "Check for updates." The state's inspector general for corrections has questioned the lack of a timely response by staff to an inmate's suspicious behavior and a resulting fire May 25 at Tecumseh State Correctional Institution. Inspector General Doug Koebernick said in a recent written report it was "difficult to believe the appropriate response to an inmate roaming around a gallery for a period of time setting fires is to just let him do that." The inmate, who was not named in the report, roamed the hallway of a housing unit that evening instead of going to a mini-yard as he was supposed to, passed envelopes from one cell to another and encouraged other inmates to flood the hallway, break sprinkler heads and kick doors. He then tied bedsheets across the gallery and another inmate helped him to light piles of paper on fire. More than 30 minutes had elapsed from the beginning of the inmate's activity until fire filled the gallery with smoke, and more than an hour passed before he was restrained by staff after he went to an entrance and asked for help. Koebernick said cameras caught much of the incident. When the fire started, staff only watched and then attempted to put it out by spraying a fire extinguisher under a door, Koebernick reported. "The inmates and even staff on the Lower E Gallery were in harms way for a considerable amount of time, yet it appears that nothing was done to try to resolve the potentially deadly situation for a period of time," he said. The prison was less than responsive or timely in addressing the medical needs of the inmates, the inspector general said. Each inmate was escorted out by an extraction team to the medical area, and as a result considerable time passed before some inmates were assessed by the medical staff despite being in a smoke-filled environment. Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes disagreed with Koebernick's assertion. "Medical care was provided in a timely manner," he said in a response to the report. Koebernick said staffing shortages at the prison affected the slower-than-expected staff responses. He reported Frakes said the incident took place on a shift where staffing levels are lower in the unit and that this resulted in slowing the response time. There was miscommunication on who was supposed to respond to the incident that also slowed responses, Koebernick said. Frakes said the claim that the slow response time was caused by low staffing, and that pulling staff from other units created even more shortages in key areas was subjective and not supported by evidence. Miscommunication was the cause for delay. Koebernick also recommended the department keep all video related to serious incidents for at least 90 days. He listed these comments and complaints from inmates living on the gallery after the fire: It took seven minutes after staff escorted the inmate out of the gallery before they opened the mini-yard door to let fresh air in. They, too, said there was a significant delay in being seen by medical staff after the fire was extinguished. It took three days for inmates to get cleaning supplies for their cells, and six days to be allowed to change their bedding, they said. And prisoners received no mental health checks despite the trauma at being locked in their cells with a fire going and thick smoke enveloping them. Even through it was required, Koebernick could find no record the Tecumseh Fire Department or the State Fire Marshal was contacted, he said. And the Nebraska State Patrol was never contacted about a possible crime of arson. Warden Brad Hansen told Koebernick in an August email that, Since there was no damage to the facility, the only person notified as a result of materials lit on fire was the safety and sanitation person... Koebernick praised a sergeant he did not name for communicating with the inmate when force was used against him, and when he was placed in a restraint chair. The sergeant was calm and understanding and developed a good rapport with the inmate, which was extremely important under the circumstances, he said. He also said the Tecumseh staff did an "excellent job of spending time in front of each cell door a number of times communicating with inmates after the fire was extinguished and the first inmate was moved to the medical area." Frakes told Koebernick in a letter that he agreed every minute counts in an emergency and a timely response is paramount. He agreed with some of Koebernick's findings, but on the recommendation of saving video, he suggested the department could retain video two weeks, rather than 90 days. 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 By now, you probably know everything there is to know about Google's Pixel 2. You've no doubt read the reviews, mulled over the bigger-picture significance, and gotten a pretty good feel for whether the phone's right for you. Before you shift your attention to the next shiny thing, though, hang on a second: With the basics behind us, I've been working to wrap my noggin around the broader implications surrounding the Pixel 2's launch and Google's ever-expanding hardware efforts. And more than ever, I'm convinced what we're seeing right now is but a tiny sliver of a much bigger story. "Yadda yadda yadda," you're probably thinking. "What's that mustachioed old moose rambling on about now?" Well, Frankus, let me tell you: When you step back and look at everything we've seen from Google this month, it seems clearer than ever that the company is carving out its own niche within its platforms effectively starting an effort, in other words, to transition away from a focus on Android as an ecosystem and instead toward a focus on Google as an ecosystem. And that, suffice it to say, is a momentous shift. Think about it: From the get-go, Google's goal as a company has been to get you online and using its services as much as possible, no matter what vehicle you choose. Even with its Nexus devices of yesteryear, the focus was always on showcasing and emphasizing the strengths of Android as an ecosystem because at the end of the day, it didn't matter if you were using Google's device or Samsung's (or heck, even JimBob's); as long as you were spending as much time as possible on the internet and engaged with Google services, the company could continue to collect data about you and ultimately serve you more effective targeted ads. So for Google, pushing Android as an ecosystem always made sense. Regardless of your device's make or model, your Android experience revolved around things like Gmail, Google Drive, the Google Play Store, and of course Google Search, be it through the box on your home screen, the Chrome browser, or any other integrated method. In more recent years, the Google Assistant has also taken an increasingly prominent role as the "next-gen" search appliance. But increasingly, Google's been going up against some friction that gets in the way of that model's once-sound setup. Companies that control the lion's share of Android devices are pushing their own apps and services including browsers, app stores, and allegedly "intelligent" assistants and simultaneously pushing Google's equivalents out of the spotlight. Some phones are even shipping with (gasp!) Microsoft apps and services installed by default. Perhaps it was inevitable, then, that Google's focus would move from emphasizing Android as the common denominator to emphasizing Google as the unifying thread. And boy, is such a pivot picking up steam fast. [ To comment on this story, visit Computerworld's Facebook page. ] Consider: 1. All the new ways the company is starting to tie Google devices together for a uniquely cohesive experience. The Pixel phone is the only device that fixes all the most common complaints about Android. It's the sole device to offer consistently timely and reliable software updates, period something that seems especially pertinent this week and the only device to guarantee a full three years of updates for both OS and security releases. That much we already knew. Now, though, the Pixel also works hand in hand with the Google Pixelbook which, despite technically running a different operating system, offers an increasingly consistent user experience. This is no understated connection, either: The Google Store prominently promotes the idea that the two products are "better together." The Pixelbook provides instant tethering with Pixel phones, the site advises potential purchasers, and you need only one charger to handle both devices. Google The notion of this new Google device ecosystem is equally present in the promotion of the $99 Pixelbook Pen, which features a thus-far-exclusive form of Assistant integration and which Google proudly proclaims is "designed for Pixelbook." The Pixel Buds, meanwhile, offer a real-time in-ear translation feature that works exclusively with you guessed it the Pixel phone. And remember that theme we were talking about a second ago? Google Yup. Even the new Google Clips camera, which actually works with any Android or iOS device, is being marketed as "made better" with the Pixel phone and its Google Photos experience. Google Google's Nest wing is also getting in on the action: As part of this month's grand hardware announcement, the company unveiled several fresh forms of Assistant integration with its products including the newly added ability to send a live view from your Nest Cam to a Chromecast by speaking a command to the Assistant on any device (!) and a feature for its upcoming Nest Hello video doorbell that'll let you hear who's at your door via any Google Home speakers in your house (using Google-powered facial recognition, of course). And there's more yet: 2. The quiet launch of a new 'Made for Google' certification program. Alongside its Pixel 2 launch, Google snuck in a noteworthy little tidbit: It's starting a new "Made for Google" program for accessories. Any approved partner-produced products will feature a special badge on their packaging "so you know they've been certified to meet Google's compatibility standards," as the company puts it. Made...for Google. Those last two words speak volumes. (And if the idea of such an effort sounds familiar well, it should.) 3. The quiet reframing of the Google Store as a place to buy Google's own products and nothing else. Up until this month, the Google Store featured a wide range of products related to the company's various platforms: Android, Chrome OS, Chromecast, Android Wear, and so on. Following the Oct. 4 event, something changed. Visit the Google Store now, and you'll see only Google-made devices along with the "Made for Google" accessories that support them. No Motorola phones. No Samsung Chromebooks. No Huawei Android Wear watches. Just Google stuff. That's it. Google Google also took the unusual step of adding a link to its storefront right on the Google.com home page, further emphasizing the importance of this now-company-specific retail center. And it hinted at plans to expand the store's reach to a number of new countries, including Mexico, Brazil, and Indonesia. The primary focus is no longer about platforms it's about Google Each piece of this puzzle in and of itself may seem small, but considered together as a whole, these changes paint a dramatic picture of Google's evolving direction. (And let's not forget that Google also holds the unusual advantage of having its own specialty wireless service for its phones, complete with cost-saving perks for multi-device users. The company's mostly kept that as an out-of-the-way footnote so far, but who knows? That may well change before long.) Now, let's be real: Google most certainly still has its work cut out for it particularly when it comes to consumer awareness and product availability and the mobile market obviously isn't going to morph overnight. Still, it's hard not to look at this shift in ecosystem prioritization and see the seeds of something significant being planted. The primary focus is no longer about platforms like Android and Chrome OS; it's about Google, plain and simple and the way Google products work together to benefit the user. That sure seems like the start of something big. Miyazaki Prefecture has three ports available for cruise visits. Aburatsu was upgraded in 2015 and can take Quantum-class ships, while Miyazaki fits boutique vessels and Hososhima accommodates ships up to 70,000 tons. This year, were seeing increasing numbers of calls from new cruise lines. The pier upgrade at Aburatsu has led to more calls, said Yoshiaki Takatori, manager, tourism promotion department. Among the new visitors was the Norwegian Joy calling at Aburatsu, while the Silver Shadow also made a first-time visit there. At Hososhima, the SuperStar Virgo, Volendam and Amsterdam made inaugural calls earlier this year. Takatori said he is expecting more calls for 2018, and Aburatsu is getting further bollard and tender upgrades to take Oasis-class vessels. The busiest months so far are May and October, but we are aiming to have more year-round calls. We have a relatively warm winter climate, Takatori said. --- For insight and in-depth analysis of the Asia-Pacific and Chinese cruise market, download the 2018 China Market Report. About the 2018 China Market Report The 2018 China Market Report by Cruise Industry News is the only resource covering the future trajectory of the Chinese and Asia-Pacific cruise industry, presenting the past, present and future in a concise 95-plus page PDF download. It is the only forward looking and independently-researched data available on the Chinese cruise market. Cruise Industry News profiles all the major cruise lines operating in Asia, from Carnival Corporation to Royal Caribbean and local operators. In addition, there are discussions with leading Chinese travel agents about the charter model and pricing trends, port news and updates from across the region, and a look at the fleet of ships in Asia through 2027. There is also exclusive analysis and statistics of the Asia-Pacific market going back to 1998 and supply projections through 2027, in addition to a break-down of Asia-Pacific and China by operator and market capacity. Click here to learn more. The Nippon Maru will stay close to home in 2018, with one- to eight-night cruises offered to its Japanese passenger base. Next spring (2018) we will sail in the islands of Okinawa and also visit Taiwan for the seventh season. The program includes flights to and from major cities, said Naohiko Yamaguchi, president, Mitsui O.S.K. Passenger Line. The company plans itineraries combining domestic and international cruises, considering seasonality as well as local events and festivities in the region, said Yamaguchi. Longer sailings will also visit Guam and Saipan. We are also considering adding one or two cities in Southeast Asia as homeports, said Yamaguchi. The fly cruise program is doing well, he added, and the small ship can call at some 150 different ports in Japan. Read the full interview with Naohiko Yamaguchi in the Cruise Industry News Fall 2017 Quarterly Magazine. --- For insight and in-depth analysis of the Asia-Pacific and Japanese cruise market, download the 2018 China Market Report. About the 2018 China Market Report The 2018 China Market Report by Cruise Industry News is the only resource covering the future trajectory of the Chinese and Asia-Pacific cruise industry, presenting the past, present and future in a concise 95-plus page PDF download. It is the only forward looking and independently-researched data available on the Chinese cruise market. Cruise Industry News profiles all the major cruise lines operating in Asia, from Carnival Corporation to Royal Caribbean and local operators. In addition, there are discussions with leading Chinese travel agents about the charter model and pricing trends, port news and updates from across the region, and a look at the fleet of ships in Asia through 2027. There is also exclusive analysis and statistics of the Asia-Pacific market going back to 1998 and supply projections through 2027, in addition to a break-down of Asia-Pacific and China by operator and market capacity. Click here to learn more. Costa Crociere continues to optimize its deployment as the company announced the Costa Fortuna will sail in Europe in 2019 after a winter in Southeast Asia. The ship is currently based in China. "With the arrival of the new vessel for Costa Asia specifically designed for Chinese and Asian guests, currently being built by Fincantieri, we will reposition the Costa Fortuna back in the Mediterranean to reinforce its offer while waiting for the arrival of Costa Smeralda at the end of 2019, Costa said, in a statement issued to Cruise Industry News. Additional details on Costa Fortuna new Mediterranean itineraries will be communicated at a later time." The Fortuna moving back to Europe will make way for the first of two made-for-China newbuilds from Costa, which is expected to arrive into the market in the second half of 2019. The move back to Europe will also help boost the companys capacity on its home turf, as the Fortuna will join the recently re-deployed Victoria, and the to-be-delivered Costa Smeralda in 2019. The Fortuna was delivered in 2003 from Fincantieris Genoa yard. In 2016, Costa sent the ship to China, where it was announced that Shanghai would serve as the ships year-round homeport. The 2017 Warren Morrow Hispanic Growth Fund Grant will help seven credit unions continue their Hispanic outreach and community impact efforts. Named in honor of the late Warren Morrow, who dedicated his life and career to helping the underserved and empowering the Hispanic community, the grant is made possible by Coopera, CUNA and the National Credit Union Foundation. Each of the grant recipients is a Juntos Avanzamos-designated cooperative, a program taken to the national stage by the Federation. This post details how three of the grant recipients plan to allocate the funds. We will cover plans of the remaining four recipients in an upcoming post. Members Credit Union (MCU) With its grant funds, MCU will purchase two Spanish electronic seminar kits from CUNA and materials for financial education sessions with Hispanic youth. The credit union will then partner with local organizations to conduct the seminars. Along with financial education, we will bring opportunity for membership in a safe, Hispanic-friendly financial cooperative where they will receive low-cost services that are relevant to their lives and financial counseling to help them meet their goals, said Kathy Chartier, MCU president/CEO. We often see members and potential members who are taken advantage of by large banks and predatory lenders. This program is specifically directed toward the Hispanic community with the goal of helping them improve their financial understanding and well-being. More than 400 credit unions went casual Sept. 13 as a part of the annual Credit Unions for Kids Miracle Jeans Day event in support of Childrens Miracle Network Hospitals. Credit union employees donated $5 each for the opportunity to wear jeans to work on a Wednesday. Proceeds will be donated to the credit unions local Childrens Miracle Network Hospital. This has been a record year for the program, says Joe Dearborn, senior director of Credit Unions for Kids, We are still receiving donations, but with more credit unions participating than ever before, were expecting to be able to help even more kids than weve been able to in previous years. With more than 400 credit unions joining the cause, Miracle Jeans Day drew more credit union participants than 2016, when over 300 credit unions took part. A Nebraska man accused of helping his Florida girlfriend kill herself after she told him she had cancer appears to have taken her story at face value and didn't push her to seek medical treatment or mental health counseling, authorities said Tuesday. Lt. Larry Burke of the Cass County Sheriff's Office said Matthew J. Stubbendieck was "pretty convincing in his interviews" that he believed his girlfriend, 38-year-old Alicia Wilemon-Sullivan, of Orange City, Florida, had stage-4 cancer in her lymph nodes. Nebraska authorities now suspect Wilemon-Sullivan didn't have cancer, based on an autopsy of her decomposed body that found no tumors. Wilemon-Sullivan killed herself in a wooded area near Weeping Water on Aug. 1, with help from the 41-year-old Stubbendieck, who faces a felony assisted suicide charge. On Tuesday, Judge John F. Steinheider set Stubbendieck's bond at $50,000. He remains in jail. Burke said authorities can't prove whether or not Wilemon-Sullivan actually had cancer, but noted that Stubbendieck never accompanied her to medical appointments and didn't contact authorities while they were planning or carrying out her death. "He didn't bother to say, 'If she does have cancer, why don't we do something about it,'" Burke said. "If he's truly in love with her, as he says, there are times he could have sought help. He could have gotten her to a mental health professional." Burke said Wilemon-Sullivan claimed to have cancer back when she and Stubbendieck were living in Florida. Stubbendieck moved to Florida about three years ago but returned to his native Nebraska after losing his job, he said. Authorities said Stubbendieck reported that Wilemon-Sullivan had killed herself and led them to her body on Aug. 5 in a wooded area near his hometown of Weeping Water. The couple arranged for Wilemon-Sullivan to fly to Nebraska from her home near Orlando to kill herself. Stubbendieck believed his girlfriend had cancer in the lymph nodes of her neck, armpit and stomach, according to court records. Authorities say the cause of death was inconclusive, but the autopsy found no sign of blunt force trauma and concluded that cuts on her forearms and wrists appeared to be self-inflicted. Wilemon-Sullivan also had alcohol, painkillers and cold medicine in her system, it found. The investigation "revealed Stubbendieck and Alicia Wilemon-Sullivan had been arranging for Alicia to come to Nebraska to die" and they were "talking about her death over text messages" for several weeks, authorities said in court records. Wilemon-Sullivan left her children with a friend and said she was going on vacation to Key West, the records said. Authorities say she bought a one-way American Airlines ticket to Nebraska. Kenny Johnson, the friend who watched over her children, said Wilemon-Sullivan texted him on July 31 that she would be away until Aug. 3. Johnson said he met her at the airport, and she gave him $200 and her truck keys. Johnson said Wilemon-Sullivan never mentioned to him that she had been diagnosed with cancer, and only complained occasionally that her feet hurt. He said he met her through her son in March and was staying with the family after his recent move to Florida. Wilemon-Sullivan had four children. "She was a hard-working single mom," Johnson said. Authorities began investigating after one of Wilemon-Sullivan's children contacted Florida authorities Aug. 5, according to a missing-person's report filed with the Volusia County, Florida, sheriff's office. The 15-year-old said his older brother in Mississippi had received a call from Stubbendieck notifying him that their mother had died after cutting her wrists. Investigators said Stubbendieck and Wilemon-Sullivan walked into the woods to an area called Acapulco Lake around 2 p.m. on Aug. 1, and he remained with her for several hours as she tried to end her life, according to the records. Authorities said Stubbendieck tried to suffocate her twice while she was sleeping, but stopped because she appeared to be suffering. She was still able to whisper when he left her around 9:30 p.m. Stubbendieck returned the next afternoon and found Wilemon-Sullivan dead, but he didn't call the sheriff's office until three days later, according to court records. Stubbendieck told authorities he initially promised not to tell anyone about her death until five or six months later but changed his mind because the secret was "destroying his family," court records show. Stubbendieck has a history of minor drug and alcohol-related offenses in Nebraska but no violent crimes, according to online court records. Assisting suicide is a felony in Nebraska punishable by as much as two years in prison, a year of post-release supervision and a $10,000 fine, although a judge could impose a lesser sentence. The Fourth Corner Credit Union asked a Colorado federal judge last month to force the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City to issue a master account that would enable the Denver-based state chartered credit union to serve social groups that support legalizing marijuana. The credit unions civil complaint filed Sept. 29 in U.S. District Court in Denver argues federal law unambiguously creates a non-discretionary statutory obligation that requires FRB-KC issue a master account to all depository institutions. The lawsuit alleged that FRB-KC has invoked an illegal discriminatory procedure by requesting information from the credit union that the FRB-KC is not entitled to receive from any depository institution that applies for a master account. The credit union is asking a federal judge in Denver to render a declaratory judgment and grant a mandatory injunction that would order the federal reserve bank to immediately issue the master account. TFCCU initially applied for a master account with FRB-KC in November 2014 after it received a state charter to serve the legalized recreational marijuana industry in Colorado. However, the credit union has since changed its business plan to serve social groups supporting the legalization of marijuana. The credit union also said it would not serve marijuana-related businesses in the state until there is a change in federal law that would authorize financial institutions to serve the pot industry. Not everyone can understand the details, nuances, and challenges around todays technologies. But Ram Ridgeway does. As director of retail support at $3.63 billion asset Wright-Patt Credit Union (WPCU) in Beavercreek, Ohio, Ridgeway gained this understanding while moving up in the ranks of the organization during the past decade. He describes retail support as our back-office operations. Thats a simplified way to say he oversees online and mobile banking, card products, the ATM and personal teller machine fleet, deposit products, and processing mailed-in checks. We look at our responsibilities through the lenses of supporting retail partners/employees, channel management, and vendor management, Ridgeway explains. 1 to 3 inches of snow forecast for Tuesday night Up to 3 inches of snow are possible Tuesday night, with much more to hit the northeast. Get the Asia AM Digest every day before Tokyo equity markets open sign up here ! The US Dollar corrected higher against its major counterparts. The currency rose alongside front-end Treasury bond yields while gold prices fell, hinting that Fed policy hawks may be back in control of the narrative after last weeks retreat. Tellingly, rate-sensitive currencies at both ends of the G10 FX spectrum the Australian and Canadian Dollars on the high-yielding side and the Japanese Yen at the opposite extreme bore the brunt of the greenbacks rediscovered vigor. The New Zealand Dollar marked time amid continued post-election uncertainty. DailyFX Economic Calendar: Asia Pacific (all times in GMT) With New Zealand CPI data already out of the way, minutes from Octobers RBA meeting amount to the only noteworthy item left on the Asia Pacific economic calendar. This release rarely strays from the message delivered in the central banks post-meeting statement, so it may not see a lasting market response. Meanwhile, NZ First party leader Winston Peters may finally announce if his bloc will support ruling National or opposition Labour to form a new ruling coalition after last months general election produced a hung parliament. A definitive outcome may be broadly supportive for the Kiwi in the near term as uncertainty ebbs, regardless of who takes the reins. DailyFX Webinar Calendar CLICK HERE to register IG Client Sentiment Index Chart of the Day: USD/JPY CLICK HERE to learn more about the IG Client Sentiment Index Retail trader data shows 45.9% of traders are net-long USD/JPY, with the ratio of traders short to long at 1.18 to 1. In fact, traders have remained net-short since Oct 06 when USD/JPY traded near 112.802; price has moved 0.9% lower since then. The number of traders net-long is 16.6% higher than yesterday and 13.9% higher from last week, while the number of traders net-short is 7.3% higher than yesterday and 12.1% higher from last week. We typically take a contrarian view to crowd sentiment, and the fact traders are net-short suggests USD/JPY prices may continue to rise. Yet traders are less net-short than yesterday and compared with last week. Recent changes in sentiment warn that the current USD/JPY price trend may soon reverse lower despite the fact traders remain net-short. 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Ltd., Turbo Systems Verwaltungs Ltd, Turbocharging Bangladesh Limited, Turbocharging Brasil Ltda., Turbocharging Systems Co. Ltd., Turbocharging Systems France SAS, Turbocharging UK Limited, Turbosystems Nigeria Limited LTD, Validus DC Systems, Vectek Electronics, Ventyx, Verdi Holding Corporation, W.J. Furse & Co. Ltd., Yangzhou SAC Switchgear Co. Ltd, and Zhejiang Chargedot New Energy Technology Co. Ltd.. Read More In the midst of a governing crisis, House Speaker Paul Ryan has once again risen to his role as the voice of bland complacency. Concerning the open warfare between President Trump and Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., Ryan advises "these two gentlemen to sit down and just talk through their issues." But what are Corker's "issues"? He has asserted that Trump requires constant handling to control his volatility: "I know for a fact that every single day at the White House, it's a situation of trying to contain him." Corker has accused Trump of lacking strategic thinking: "A lot of people think that there is some kind of 'good cop, bad cop' act underway, but that's just not true." Corker has called out Trump's routine deceptions: "I don't know why the president tweets out things that are not true." Corker has talked of Trump's vacuity: He acts "like he's doing 'The Apprentice' or something." Corker, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has expressed the fear that Trump's instability could lead to conflict: "We could be headed toward World War III with the kind of comments that he's making." So how does Ryan imagine that a Corker-Trump conversation might unfold? Over dinner, Corker accuses the president of being a chaotic, directionless, shallow liar who could start a nuclear war. Trump passes the peas and attacks Corker for being short. This is, after all, the way gentlemen resolve their differences. GOP denial about Trump has generally taken Ryan's form. The president may be eccentric and divisive, but Republicans need to keep their heads down and think of tax reform. This assumes that the main challenge is to avoid distraction from essential tasks. But the real problem has always been Trump's fundamental unfitness for high office. It is not Trump's indiscipline and lack of leadership, which make carrying a legislative agenda forward nearly impossible. It is not his vulgarity and smallness, which have been the equivalent of spray painting graffiti on the Washington Monument. It is not his nearly complete ignorance of policy and history, which condemns him to live in the eternal present of his own immediate desires. No, Corker has given public permission to raise the most serious questions: Is Trump psychologically and morally equipped to be president? And could his unfitness cause permanent damage to the country? It is no longer possible to safely ignore the leaked cries for help coming from within the administration. They reveal a president raging against enemies, obsessed by slights, deeply uninformed and incurious, unable to focus, and subject to destructive whims. A main task of the chief of staff seems to be to shield him from dinner guests and telephone calls that might set him off on a foolish or dangerous tangent. Much of the White House senior staff seems bound, not by loyalty to the president, but by a duty to protect the nation from the president. Trump, in turn, is reported to have said: "I hate everyone in the White House." And also, presumably, at the State Department, headed by a secretary of state who apparently regards his boss as a "moron." It was once urged, "Let Reagan be Reagan." Who, besides the oleaginous Sean Hannity, would say, "Let Trump be Trump"? The security of our country -- and potentially the lives of millions of people abroad -- depends on Trump being someone else entirely. It depends on the president being some wise, strategic, restrained leader he has never been. The time for whispered criticisms and quiet snickering is over. The time for panic and decision is upon us. The thin line of sane, responsible advisers at the White House -- such as chief of staff John Kelly, Defense Secretary James Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson -- could break at any moment. Already, Trump's protests of eternal love for Kelly are a bad sign for the general's future. The American government now has a dangerous fragility at its very center. Its welfare is as thin as an eggshell -- perhaps as thin as Donald Trump's skin. Any elected Republican who shares Corker's concerns has a political and moral duty to state them in public. If Corker is correct, many of his colleagues do have such fears. Their silence is deafening and damning. "Brave men are all vertebrates," said G.K. Chesterton. "They have their softness on the surface and their toughness in the middle. But these modern cowards are all crustaceans; their hardness is all on the cover, and their softness is inside." More than anything else at this moment, the nation has need of Republican vertebrates. Hilltop Holdings Inc. provides business and consumer banking, and financial products and services. It operates through three segments: Banking, Broker-Dealer, and Mortgage Origination. The Banking segment offers savings, checking, interest-bearing checking, and money market accounts; certificates of deposit; lines and letters of credit, home improvement and equity loans, loans for purchasing and carrying securities, equipment loans and leases, agricultural and commercial real estate loans, and other loans; and commercial and industrial loans, and term and construction finance. This segment also provides treasury management, wealth management, asset management, check cards, safe deposit boxes, online banking, bill pay, trust, and overdraft services; and estate planning, management and administration, investment portfolio management, employee benefit accounts, and individual retirement accounts, as well as automated teller machines. The Broker-Dealer segment offers public finance services that assist public entities in originating, syndicating, and distributing securities of municipalities and political subdivisions; specialized advisory and investment banking services; advice and guidance to arbitrage rebate compliance, portfolio management, and local government investment pool administration; structured finance services, which include advisory services for derivatives and commodities; sells, trades in, and underwrites U.S. government and government agency bonds, corporate bonds, and municipal bonds, as well as mortgage-backed, asset-backed, and commercial mortgage-backed securities and structured products. This segment also provides asset and liability management advisory, clearing, retail, and securities lending services. The Mortgage Origination segment offers mortgage, jumbo, Federal Housing Administration, Veterans Affairs, and United States Department of Agriculture loans. Hilltop Holdings Inc. was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Gardner Denver Holdings, Inc. provides mission-critical flow control and compression equipment; and associated aftermarket parts, consumables, and services in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It operates through three segments: Industrials, Energy, and Medical. The Industrials segment designs, manufactures, markets, and services a range of air compression, vacuum, and blower products, as well as offers associated aftermarket parts, consumables, and services. Its products are used in process-critical applications, such as the operation of industrial air tools, vacuum packaging of food products, aeration of waste water, and others. This segment sells its products through an integrated network of direct sales representatives and independent distributors under the Gardner Denver, CompAir, Elmo Rietschle, Robuschi, and other brand names. The Energy segment engages in the design, manufacture, marketing, and service of a range of displacement and liquid ring vacuum pumps, compressors and integrated systems, and engineered fluid loading and transfer equipment, as well as offers associated aftermarket parts, consumables, and services under the Gardner Denver, Nash, Emco Wheaton, and other brands. It serves customers in upstream, midstream, and downstream energy markets, as well as petrochemical processing, transportation, and general industrial sectors. The Medical segment designs, manufactures, and markets a range of specialized gas, liquid, and precision syringe pumps and compressors for use in oxygen therapy, blood dialysis, patient monitoring, laboratory sterilization and wound treatment, and other applications. This segment sells its products under the Thomas and other brands. Gardner Denver Holdings, Inc. was founded in 1859 and is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Baxter International Inc., through its subsidiaries, develops and provides a portfolio of healthcare products worldwide. The company offers peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, and additional dialysis therapies and services; intravenous therapies, infusion pumps, administration sets, and drug reconstitution devices; remixed and oncology drug platforms, inhaled anesthesia and critical care products and pharmacy compounding services; parenteral nutrition therapies and related products; biological products and medical devices used in surgical procedures for hemostasis, tissue sealing and adhesion prevention; and continuous renal replacement therapies and other organ support therapies focused in the intensive care unit. It also provides connected care solutions, including devices, software, communications, and integration technologies; integrated patient monitoring and diagnostic technologies to help diagnose, treat, and manage a various illness and diseases, including respiratory therapy, cardiology, vision screening, and physical assessment; surgical video technologies, tables, lights, pendants, precision positioning devices and other accessories. In addition, the company offers contracted services to various pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies. Its products are used in hospitals, kidney dialysis centers, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, doctors' offices, and patients at home under physician supervision. The company sells its products through direct sales force, as well as through independent distributors, drug wholesalers, and specialty pharmacy or other alternate site providers in approximately 100 countries. It has an agreement with Celerity Pharmaceutical, LLC to develop acute care generic injectable premix and oncolytic molecules. Baxter International Inc. was incorporated in 1931 and is headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois. Belden Inc. provides portfolio of signal transmission solutions in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. It operates in two segments, Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Solutions. The Enterprise Solutions segment offers copper cable and connectivity solutions, fiber cable and connectivity solutions, interconnect panels, racks and enclosures, and signal extension and matrix switching systems for use in applications, such as local area networks, data centers, access control, 5G, fiber, and home and building automation. It also provides power, cooling, and airflow management products for mission-critical data center operations; and end-to-end copper and fiber network systems. This segment serves commercial real estate, hospitality, healthcare, education, financial, government, and broadband and wireless service providers, as well as end-markets, including sport venues, stadiums, data centers, military installations, and academia. The Industrial Solutions segment offers infrastructure components and on-machine connectivity systems; and industrial Ethernet switches, network management software, routers, firewalls, gateways, input/output (I/O) connectors/systems, industrial Ethernet cables, optical fiber industrial Ethernet cables, Fieldbus cables, IP and networking cables, I/O modules, distribution boxes, and customer specific wiring solutions. This segment provides its products for use in applications comprising network and fieldbus infrastructure; sensor and actuator connectivity; and power, control, and data transmission; and supplies heat-shrinkable tubing and wire management products to protect and organize wire and cable assemblies. It serves distributors, original equipment manufacturers, installers, and end-users. The company was formerly known as Belden CDT Inc. and changed its name to Belden Inc. in May 2007. Belden Inc. was founded in 1902 and is based in St. Louis, Missouri. The United States has the worlds largest incarcerated population. Nebraskas prisons capacity is among the highest in the nation. For every person who enters a local jail, state penitentiary or federal prison, the ripple effect of that persons absence stretches far beyond the facilitys walls. And possibly no population on the outside is more affected than children whose parents are sentenced to serve time behind bars. As prison populations nationwide have increased, its worth taking a closer look how Nebraska handles its parents and their children, given that nearly two-thirds of the roughly 9,000 state inmates are identified as parents. An interim study resolution, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, is taking a needed look at this vulnerable yet important group. Among the nine points explicitly enumerated in the resolution are examining policies on visitation and calls, locations where certain parents serve their sentences, reducing recidivism among parents and creating child-friendly programs, both within correctional institutions and programs for families. The conversations in Pansing Brooks resolution, which picked up three conservative co-sponsors, must be had. A growing body of data highlights the thin line an ever-growing number of children must walk. A Pew Center study in 2010 estimated that more than 2.7 million children one in 28 have at least one incarcerated parent. That figure, still cited today, came after a 2007 U.S. Department of Justice survey placed the figure at 1.7 million. It followed yet another 79 percent increase between 1991 and 2007. A University of Pittsburgh summary of outcomes for children of incarcerated parents noted that the interactions in prisons and jails have critical impacts down the road. Those whose visits to their parents arent paired with interventions or atmospheres to make a difficult place more inviting trended toward negative results. Conversely, increased child-parent contact and more child-friendly environments yielded better outcomes for both parties. Another 2014 study conducted by researchers at the University of California-Irvine found children with a parent in prison or jail were significantly more likely to suffer from poor physical and mental health. This is compounded by a body of evidence showing that the incarceration of a parent has significant, obvious negative impact on familys socioeconomic status. Official names for many jails and prisons stress their ultimate purpose of inmates atoning for crimes committed corrections, reformatory, penitentiary. Nearly all who enter a prison one day leave it. They come out changed, but their responsibilities as a parent remains the same. All the while, the vital job of parenting waits outside prison walls. Nebraska must seek the best outcomes to ensure parents serving time and their children have the best chance to succeed despite a difficult separation. Dear Doctor: A recent study suggested that cancer for thyroid treatment can be delayed. What would be the point? Dear Reader: The question is a logical one -- as I know firsthand, having been diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer about 20 years ago. At that time, the only thought that my family and I had was: How quickly can we get this cancer out? I have had no recurrence and have not regretted my decision. But now cancer patients have the advantage of data. Thyroid cancer rates have increased over the last 40 years. In 1975, the rate of papillary thyroid cancer -- the most common form of thyroid cancer -- was 4.8 per 100,000 people in the United States; in 2012, the rate was 14.9 per 100,000 people. While the increase in diagnosis is partly due to exposure to radiation from cancer therapy, X-rays and nuclear waste, it's mostly due to detection. Thyroid cancers are simply found more often today, often incidentally when imaging of the neck or chest, done for other reasons, shows a mass in the thyroid. Such cancers are not uncommon. In U.S. and other countries' autopsy studies of people who have died for other reasons, researchers have found that 5.7 percent to 13 percent of people have small papillary thyroid cancers. That suggests that people with these cancers may never develop negative effects from them. That brings us to the 2017 study that followed 291 patients with papillary thyroid cancers of less than 1.5 centimeters. Instead of having surgery on their thyroid, they received ultrasounds every six months for two years and then yearly afterward. On average, patients were followed for 25 months and received four follow-up ultrasounds. Only 11 (3.8 percent) of the 291 patients saw their tumors grow more than 3 millimeters during the study period. However, tumor volume increased by 50 percent in 36 patients (12.1 percent) and decreased in volume by 50 percent in 19 patients (6.5 percent). Those younger than 50 had a five-times-greater likelihood of tumor growth than people older than 50. Japanese studies have found similar results. Traditionally, for thyroid cancers less than 1 centimeter, treatment involves removal of one of the two lobes of the thyroid. For cancers greater than 1 centimeter, the entire thyroid is removed. Because such surgery requires a patient to take thyroid hormone for the rest of his or life, it's better to avoid surgery if possible. So, here's what does the data tell us: In essence, older patients with small papillary thyroid cancers can postpone a decision on surgery and rely on twice-a-year ultrasounds of the thyroid, at least for a while. That means, if you're a 70-year-old with a papillary thyroid cancer of 1 centimeter, simply monitoring the cancer could help you avoid unnecessary surgery. However, if you're 70 years old with a 2-centimeter lesion, then surgery to remove the thyroid is appropriate. The same does not always hold true for younger patients. If you're a 35-year-old with a 1.2-centimeter papillary thyroid cancer, postponing surgery can be risky due to the higher likelihood that the cancer will increase in size. Regardless, with the rates of thyroid cancer increasing in our population, it is important to continue studies on the most appropriate treatment. SunTrust Banks, Inc. operates as the holding company for SunTrust Bank that provides various financial services for consumers, businesses, corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit entities in the United States. It operates in two segments, Consumer and Wholesale. The Consumer segment provides deposits and payments; home equity and personal credit lines; auto, student, and other lending products; credit cards; discount/online and full-service brokerage products; professional investment advisory products and services; and trust services, as well as family office solutions. This segment also offers residential mortgage products in the secondary market. The Wholesale segment provides capital markets solutions, including advisory, capital raising, and financial risk management; asset-based financing solutions, such as securitizations, asset-based lending, equipment financing, and structured real estate arrangements; cash management services and auto dealer financing solutions; investment banking solutions; and credit and deposit, fee-based product offering, multi-family agency lending, advisory, commercial mortgage brokerage, and tailored financing and equity investment solutions. This segment also offers treasury and payment solutions, such as operating various electronic and paper payment types, which comprise card, wire transfer, automated clearing house, check, and cash; and provides services clients to manage their accounts online. The company offers its products and services through a network of traditional and in-store branches, automated teller machines, Internet, mobile, and telephone banking channels. As of December 31, 2018, it operated 1,218 full-service banking offices located in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, South Carolina, and the District of Columbia. SunTrust Banks, Inc. was founded in 1891 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. 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. The following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd., AGA Medical Belgium, AGA Medical Corporation, AGA Medical Holdings Inc., ALR Holdings, AML Medical LLC, APK Advanced Medical Technologies LLC, ATS Bermuda Holdings Limited, ATS Laboratories Inc., Abbott, Abbott (Jiaxing) Nutrition Co. Ltd., Abbott (UK) Finance Limited, Abbott (UK) Holdings Limited, Abbott AG, Abbott Asia Holdings Limited, Abbott Asia Investments Limited, Abbott Australasia Holdings Limited, Abbott Australasia Pty Ltd, Abbott B.V., Abbott Bahamas Overseas Businesses Corporation, Abbott Belgian Investments, Abbott Bermuda Holding Ltd., Abbott Biologicals B.V., Abbott Biologicals LLC, Abbott Bulgaria Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Capital India Limited, Abbott Cardiovascular Inc., Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc., Abbott Delaware LLC, Abbott Diabetes Care Inc., Abbott Diabetes Care Limited, Abbott Diabetes Care Sales Corporation, Abbott Diagnostics GmbH, Abbott Diagnostics International Ltd., Abbott Diagnostics Technologies AS, Abbott Doral Investments S.L., Abbott Equity Holdings Unlimited, Abbott Equity Investments LLC, Abbott Established Products Holdings (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Finance Company SA, Abbott Financial Holdings SRL, Abbott France S.A.S., Abbott Fund Tanzania Limited, Abbott Gesellschaft m.b.H., Abbott GmbH & Co. KG, Abbott Health Products LLC, Abbott Healthcare (Puerto Rico) Ltd., Abbott Healthcare B.V., Abbott Healthcare Costa Rica S.A., Abbott Healthcare LLC, Abbott Healthcare Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Healthcare Private Limited, Abbott Healthcare Products B.V., Abbott Healthcare Products Ltd, Abbott Holding (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding GmbH, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited Luxembourg S.C.S., Abbott Holdings B.V., Abbott Holdings LLC, Abbott Holdings Limited, Abbott Holdings Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Hungary Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Iberian Investments (2) Limited, Abbott Iberian Investments Limited, Abbott India Limited, Abbott Informatics Asia Pacific Limited, Abbott Informatics Canada Inc, Abbott Informatics Corporation, Abbott Informatics Europe Limited, Abbott Informatics France, Abbott Informatics Germany GmbH, Abbott Informatics Netherlands B.V., Abbott Informatics Singapore Pte. Limited, Abbott Informatics Spain S.A., Abbott Informatics Technologies Ltd, Abbott International Corporation, Abbott International Enterprises Ltd., Abbott International Holdings Limited, Abbott International LLC, Abbott International Luxembourg S.ar.l., Abbott Investments Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Ireland, Abbott Ireland Financing Designated Activity Company, Abbott Ireland Limited, Abbott Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Abbott Knoll Investments B.V., Abbott Korea Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Bangladesh) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco (Dos) SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Laboratories (Mozambique) Limitada, Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Philippines), Abbott Laboratories (Puerto Rico) Incorporated, Abbott Laboratories (Singapore) Private Limited, Abbott Laboratories A/S, Abbott Laboratories Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Abbott Laboratories B.V., Abbott Laboratories C.A., Abbott Laboratories Finance B.V., Abbott Laboratories GmbH, Abbott Laboratories Inc., Abbott Laboratories International LLC, Abbott Laboratories Ireland Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited - Laboratoires Abbott Limitee, Abbott Laboratories NZ Limited, Abbott Laboratories Pacific Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Laboratories Products B.V., Abbott Laboratories Residential Development Fund Inc., Abbott Laboratories S.A., Abbott Laboratories SA, Abbott Laboratories Services Corp., Abbott Laboratories Slovakia s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories South Africa (Pty) Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trustee Company Limited, Abbott Laboratories Uruguay S.A., Abbott Laboratories Vascular Enterprises, Abbott Laboratories d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories de Chile Limitada, Abbott Laboratories de Colombia S.A., Abbott Laboratories de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Abbott Laboratories druzba za farmacijo in diagnostiko d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories(Hellas) Societe Anonyme, Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios del Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Abbott Laboratuarlari Ithalat Ihracat ve Ticaret Ltd.Sti, Abbott Laboratorios Lda, Abbott Laboratorios do Brasil Ltda., Abbott Limited Egypt LLC, Abbott Logistics B.V., Abbott Management GmbH, Abbott Management LLC, Abbott Manufacturing Singapore Private Limited, Abbott Mature Products International Unlimited Company, Abbott Mature Products Management Limited, Abbott Medical (Hong Kong) Limited, Abbott Medical (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Medical (Portugal) Distribuicao de Produtos Medicos Lda, Abbott Medical (Schweiz) AG, Abbott Medical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Australia Pty. Ltd., Abbott Medical Austria Ges.m.b.H., Abbott Medical Balkan d.o.o. Beograd (Novi Beograd), Abbott Medical Belgium, Abbott Medical Canada Inc./ Medicale Abbott Canada Inc., Abbott Medical Danmark A/S, Abbott Medical Devices Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Espana S.A., Abbott Medical Estonia OU, Abbott Medical Finland Oy, Abbott Medical France SAS, Abbott Medical GmbH, Abbott Medical Hellas Limited Liability Trading Company, Abbott Medical Ireland Limited, Abbott Medical Italia S.p.A., Abbott Medical Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Korea Limited, Abbott Medical Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Medical Laboratories LTD, Abbott Medical Nederland B.V., Abbott Medical New Zealand Limited, Abbott Medical Norway AS, Abbott Medical Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Medical Sweden AB, Abbott Medical Taiwan Co., Abbott Medical U.K. Limited, Abbott Medical spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Middle East S.A.R.L., Abbott Molecular Inc., Abbott Morocco SARL, Abbott Nederland C.V., Abbott Nederland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Netherlands Investments B.V., Abbott Norge AS, Abbott Nutrition Limited, Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc., Abbott Operations Singapore Pte. Ltd., Abbott Operations Uruguay S.R.L., Abbott Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Overseas Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Overseas S.A., Abbott Oy, Abbott Point of Care Canada Limited, Abbott Point of Care Inc., Abbott Poland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Procurement LLC, Abbott Products (Philippines) Inc., Abbott Products (Spain) S.L., Abbott Products Algerie EURL, Abbott Products B.V., Abbott Products Distribution SAS, Abbott Products Egypt LLC, Abbott Products Limited, Abbott Products Limited Liability Company, Abbott Products Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Products Operations AG, Abbott Products Operations LLC, Abbott Products Romania S.R.L., Abbott Products Tunisie S.A.R.L., Abbott Products Unlimited Company, Abbott Resources Inc., Abbott Resources International Inc., Abbott S.r.l., Abbott Saudi Arabia Trading Company, Abbott Scandinavia Aktiebolag, Abbott Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, Abbott South Africa Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Strategic Opportunities Limited, Abbott Trading Company Inc., Abbott Universal LLC, Abbott Vascular Devices (2) Limited, Abbott Vascular Devices Limited, Abbott Vascular Inc., Abbott Vascular Instruments Deutschland GmbH, Abbott Vascular International, Abbott Vascular Japan Co. Ltd, Abbott Vascular Limitada, Abbott Vascular Netherlands B.V., Abbott Vascular Solutions Inc., Abbott Ventures Inc., Abbott West Indies Limited, Abbott drustvo sa ogranicenom odgovornoscu za trgovinu i usluge, Advanced Neuromodulation Systems Inc., Alere, Alere (Shanghai) Diagnostics Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Healthcare Management Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Medical Sales Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Technology Co. Ltd., Alere A/S, Alere AB, Alere AS, Alere AS Holdings Limited, Alere BBI Holdings Limited, Alere Bangladesh Limited, Alere China Co. Ltd., Alere Colombia S.A., Alere Connect LLC, Alere Connected Health Limited, Alere Connected Health Ltd., Alere Diagnostics GmbH, Alere DoA Holding GmbH, Alere GmbH, Alere GmbH (Austria), Alere GmbH (Germany), Alere HK Holdings Ltd., Alere Health B.V., Alere Health BVBA, Alere Health Corp., Alere Health Sdn Bhd, Alere Health Services B.V., Alere Healthcare (Pty) Limited, Alere Healthcare Connections Limited, Alere Healthcare Inc., Alere Healthcare Nigeria Limited, Alere Healthcare S.L., Alere Holdco Inc., Alere Holding GmbH, Alere Holdings Bermuda Limited, Alere Holdings Pty Limited, Alere Home Monitoring Inc., Alere Inc., Alere Informatics Inc., Alere International Holding Corp., Alere International Limited, Alere Lda, Alere Limited, Alere Limited (New Zealand), Alere Medical BVBA, Alere Medical Co. Ltd., Alere Medical Pakistan (Private) Limited, Alere Medical Private Limited, Alere North America LLC, Alere Oy Ab, Alere Philippines Inc., Alere Phoenix ACQ Inc., Alere Pte Ltd, Alere S.A., Alere S.r.l., Alere S/A, Alere SAS, Alere San Diego Inc., Alere Scarborough Inc., Alere Spain S.L., Alere Switzerland GmbH, Alere Technologies GmbH, Alere Technologies Holdings Limited, Alere Technologies Limited, Alere Toxicology AB, Alere Toxicology Inc., Alere Toxicology S.r.l., Alere Toxicology Services Inc., Alere Toxicology plc, Alere UK Holdings Limited, Alere UK Subco Limited, Alere ULC, Alere US Holdings LLC, Alere s.r.o., Alisoc Investment & Co, Amedica Biotech Inc., Ameditech Inc., American Generics S.A.S., American Medical Supplies Inc., American Pharmacist Inc., Antares S.A., Apica Cardiovascular Limited, Aquagestion Capacitacion S.A., Aquagestion S.A., Arriva Medical LLC, Arriva Medical Philippines Inc., Arvis Investments Limited, Atlas Farmaceutica S.A., Avee Laboratories Inc., Axis-Shield AD III AS, Axis-Shield AD IV AS, Axis-Shield AS, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Limited, Axis-Shield Ltd., BBI Animal Health Limited, BBI Diagnostics Group 2 Public Limited Company, Banco de Vida S.A., Bioabsorbable Vascular Solutions Inc., Bioalgae S.A., Biohealth LLC, Biosite Incorporated, Bosque Bonito S.A., Branan Medical Corporation, Brandex Europe C.V., British Colloids Limited, CFR Chile S.A., CFR Interamericas EL Salvador Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, CFR Interamericas Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CFR Interamericas Panama S.A., CFR Pharmaceuticals, California Property Holdings III LLC, CardioMEMS LLC, Caripharm Inc., Cephea Valve Technologies, Cephea Valve Technologies Inc., Colibri Medical Aktiebolag, Comercializadora y Distribuidora CFR Interamericas Honduras S.A., Concateno South Limited, Concateno UK Limited, Consorcio Tecnologico en Biomedicina Clinico-Molecular S.A., Continuum Services LLC, Cozart Limited, Dextech S.A., Diagnostik Nord GmbH, Distribuciones Uquifa S.A.S., Domesco Medical Import-Export Joint-Stock Corporation, Duphar International Research B.V., Endocardial Solutions, Epocal (US) Inc, Esprit de Vie S.A., European Chemicals & Co, European Drug Testing Service EDTS AB, European Services S.A., Evalve Inc., Evalve International Inc., FARMINDUSTRIA S.A., Fada Pharma Paraguay Sociedad Anonima, Fadapharma del Ecuador S.A., Farmaceutica Mont Blanc S.L., Farmacologia Em Aquicultura Veterinaria Ltda., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV Ecuador S.A., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV S.A., Fernwood Investment S.A., First Check Diagnostics LLC, Focus Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Forensics Limited, Forestcreek Overseas S.A., Fournier Pharma Corp., Fournier Pharma GmbH, Fournier Pharmaceuticals Limited, Framed B.V., Gabmed GmbH, Garden Hills LLC, Global Analytical Development LLC, Globapharm & CO LP, Glomed Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Golnorth Investments S.A., Gynocare Limited, Gynopharm Sociedad Anonima, Gynopharm de Centroamerica S.A., Gynopharm de Venezuela C.A., Hi-Tronics Designs Inc., IDEV Technologies Inc., IG Innovations Limited, IMTC Finance B.V., IMTC Holdings B.V., IMTC Technologies Inc., Ibis Biosciences LLC, Igloo Zone Chile S.A., Igloo Zone S.L., Inmobiliaria Naknek S.A.C., Innovacon Inc., Instant Tech Subsidiary Acquisition Inc., Instant Technologies Inc., Instituto de Criopreservacion de Chile S.A., Integrated Vascular Systems Inc., Inverness Canadian Acquisition Corporation, Inverness Medical (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Australia Pty Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Hong Kong Limited, Inverness Medical Innovations SK LLC, Inverness Medical Investments LLC, Inverness Medical LLC, Inverness Medical Shimla Private Limited, Inversiones K2 SpA, Inversiones Komodo S.R.L., Ionian Technologies LLC, Irvine Biomedical Inc., Kalila Medical, Kangshenyunga S.A., Knoll UK Investments Unlimited, LLC VeroInPharm, Laboratoires Fournier S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano Lafrancol S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano del Ecuador S.A., Laboratorio Internacional Argentino S.A., Laboratorio Synthesis S.A.S., Laboratorios Lafi Limitada, Laboratorios Naturmedik S.A.S., Laboratorios Pauly Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Laboratorios Recalcine S.A., Laboratorios Transpharm S.A., Laboratory Specialists of America Inc., Lafrancol Dominicana S.A.S., Lafrancol Guatemala S.A. Sociedad Anonima, Lafrancol Internacional S.A.S, Lafrancol Peru S.R.L, Lake Forest Investments LLC, Lightlab Imaging Inc., Limited Liability Company Abbott Laboratories, Limited Liability Company Abbott Ukraine, Limited Liability Company VEROPHARM, Lung Fung Hong (China) Limited, Mansbridge Pharmaceuticals Limited, MediGuide LLC, MediGuide Ltd., Medscreen Holdings Limited, Metropolitana Farmaceutica S.A., Midwest Properties LLC, Murex Argentina S.A., Murex Biotech Limited, Murex Biotech South Africa, Murex Diagnostics Inc., Murex Diagnostics International Inc., Natural Supplement Association LLC, Negocios Denia Sociedad Anonima, Neosalud S.A.C., Nether Pharma N.P. C.V., NeuroTherm LLC, Normann Pharma-Handels GmbH, North Shore Properties Inc., Novamedi S.A., Novasalud.com S.A., Nutravida S.A., OJSC Voronezhkhimpharm, Omnilab Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OptiMedica, Orgenics France SAS, Orgenics International Holdings B.V., Orgenics Ltd., PBM-Selfcare LLC, PDD II LLC, PDD LLC, PT Alere Health, PT. Abbott Indonesia, PT. Abbott Products Indonesia, Pacesetter Inc., Pantech (RF) (PTY) LTD, Pembrooke Occupational Health Inc., Penagos S.A., Pharma International Sociedad Anonima, Pharmaceutical Technologies (Pharmatech) S.A., Pharmatech Boliviana S.A., Polygon Labs S.A., Quality Assured Services Inc., RF Medical Holdings LLC, RTL Holdings Inc., Ramses Business Corp., Recben Xenerics Farmaceutica Limitada, Redwood Toxicology Laboratory Inc., Rich Horizons International Limited, SC VEROPHARM, SJ Medical Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., SJM International Inc., SJM Thunder Holding Company, SPDH Inc., Saboya Enterprises Corporation, Salviac Limited, Scanax AS, Sealing Solutions Inc., Selfcare Technology Inc., Shandong Abbott Dairy Product Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Medical Devices Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai Si Fa Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Sinensix & Co., Spinal Modulation LLC, St. Jude Medical, St. Jude Medical AB, St. Jude Medical ATG Inc., St. Jude Medical Argentina S.A., St. Jude Medical Asia Pacific Holdings GK, St. Jude Medical Atrial Fibrillation Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Brasil Ltda., St. Jude Medical Business Services Inc., St. Jude Medical Cardiology Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Colombia Ltda., St. Jude Medical Coordination Center, St. Jude Medical Costa Rica Limitada, St. Jude Medical Europe Inc., St. Jude Medical Export Ges.m.b.H., St. Jude Medical GVA Sarl, St. Jude Medical Holdings B.V., St. Jude Medical India Private Limited, St. Jude Medical International Holding, St. Jude Medical LLC, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings II, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings NT, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings SMI S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings TC S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Mexico Business Services S. de R.L. de C.V., St. Jude Medical Middle East DMCC, St. Jude Medical Operations (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., St. Jude Medical Puerto Rico LLC, St. Jude Medical S.C. Inc., St. Jude Medical Systems AB, St. Jude Medical Turkey Medikal Urunler Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Standard Diagnostics Inc., Standing Stone LLC, Swan-Myers Incorporated, TC1 LLC, Tendyne Holdings Inc., Tendyne Medical Inc., Thoratec Delaware LLC, Thoratec Europe Limited, Thoratec LLC, Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, Tobal Products Incorporated, Topera GmbH in Liquidation, Topera Inc., Tremora S.A., Tuenir S.A., TwistDx, UAB Abbott Laboratories, UAB Abbott Medical Lithuania, Union-Madison Realty Company Inc., Unipath Limited (dba Alere International/aka Cranfield), Unipath Management Limited, Unipath Pension Trustee Limited, Veropharm, Veropharm Limited Liability Partnership, Vida Cell Inversiones S.A., Vida Cell S.A., Vivalsol, W&R Pharma Handels GmbH, Western Pharmaceuticals S.A., X Technologies Inc., Yissum Holding Limited, ZonePerfect Nutrition Company, eScreen Canada ULC, eScreen Inc., ( ), and Abbott Laboratories Baltics. Read More CALEDONIA Caledonia Village President Bob Bradley will resign his post after four years on the job with his main goal, extending sewer and water to Interstate 94, accomplished. Bradley turned in his letter of resignation on Monday and also made the announcement during Monday evenings Village Board meeting at the Village Hall, 5043 Chester Lane. His last day as village president will be Nov. 6. Bradley, 67, who had been field operations manager for the Racine Wastewater Utility, first joined the Caledonia Village Board as a trustee in 2007. He served two terms before spending one year as president of the village utility district. During that year, four utility districts were consolidated into one. In 2013, Bradley ran against and defeated incumbent Village President Ron Coutts. During that campaign, Bradley drew a clear distinction between his views and those of Coutts. In an election forum that March, Bradley was the most vocal proponent among candidates of extending sewer and water to I-94; he said that without those utilities in place, the village would continue losing out on development opportunities to nearby municipalities such as Sturtevant. In contrast, the incumbent Coutts said he supported the idea of expanding utilities to I-94 but that it was not the time to pay for that, with few businesses planning to expand. From the start, Bradley also was strongly in favor of Caledonia building a new Village Hall instead of taking a Band-Aid approach with repairs to the old one on Nicholson Road. The result of that stance has been the construction of a $3.5 million Village Hall which opened in June. The art of the deal Another, lesser-known achievement of Bradleys was playing a key role in cementing the Wispark deal that turned 187 acres adjacent to I-94 into DeBack Farms Business Park. Jerry Franke, the now-retired president of Wispark the real estate development arm of Wisconsin Energy Corp. had been trying to negotiate a purchase price with the landowner, Harold DeBack. Caledonia Village Administrator Tom Christensen said Franke wasnt willing to pay more than $5 million, and DeBack was holding tight to a higher price tag. Harold was stuck on his number, and Jerry was certainly stuck on his, Christensen said. So, Bradley and Christensen had breakfast with DeBack at The Meadows Family Restaurant, 10615 Northwestern Ave., in the Franksville business district. It got to the point where Bob said, I guess were not going to be able to put a deal together, Christensen said. Bob was ready to be done, as was I. We were about 30 seconds from having the deal fall apart. However, Bradley recalled, he then told DeBack if he was willing to drop his asking price to $5 million, I said, well name the park after you. He said OK. He thought about it for a little while but not for very long, Christensen added. We got the numbers where they needed to be for the project to happen. Bradley said he is resigning because he wants to fully retire, enjoy life and do some traveling. A lot of people ask me if Im sick, Bradley said. Its because Im not sick that Im resigning. This is a full-time job. To do it right, you work for free. And, I think Caledonias in such good shape right now. Christensen agrees: (Bradleys resignation) is certainly disappointing. But I absolutely understand why, and I wish him the best. Hes been a tremendous leader, and I dont think Caledonia would be where it is without his leadership. This story has been changed since publication to correct Bob Bradley's former occupation. Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE), an S&P 500 urban office real estate investment trust ("REIT"), is the first, longest-tenured, and pioneering owner, operator, and developer uniquely focused on collaborative life science, technology, and agtech campuses in AAA innovation cluster locations, with a total market capitalization of $31.9 billion as of December 31, 2020, and an asset base in North America of 49.7 million square feet ("SF"). The asset base in North America includes 31.9 million RSF of operating properties and 3.3 million RSF of Class A properties undergoing construction, 7.1 million RSF of near-term and intermediate-term development and redevelopment projects, and 7.4 million SF of future development projects. Founded in 1994, Alexandria pioneered this niche and has since established a significant market presence in key locations, including Greater Boston, San Francisco, New York City, San Diego, Seattle, Maryland, and Research Triangle. Alexandria has a longstanding and proven track record of developing Class A properties clustered in urban life science, technology, and agtech campuses that provide our innovative tenants with highly dynamic and collaborative environments that enhance their ability to successfully recruit and retain world-class talent and inspire productivity, efficiency, creativity, and success. Alexandria also provides strategic capital to transformative life science, technology, and agtech companies through our venture capital platform. We believe our unique business model and diligent underwriting ensure a high-quality and diverse tenant base that results in higher occupancy levels, longer lease terms, higher rental income, higher returns, and greater long-term asset value. TOWN OF BURLINGTON An employee at an assisted-living facility is facing a felony charge after allegedly stealing from residents. A charge of felony theft, crime against an elderly or disabled person, was filed Monday against Elizabeth J. Reda, 20, of the 200 block of Lewis Street, Burlington. According to the criminal complaint: At about 6:30 a.m. Sunday, Racine County Sheriffs Office deputies were dispatched to Arbor View Communities, 34201 Arbor Lane, Town of Burlington, after being advised that an employee, Reda, was allegedly stealing from residents. One of Redas coworkers had allegedly observed Reda, who works third shift, carrying a large black garbage bag and laundry basket and looking through patients rooms. When asked what she was doing, Reda reportedly replied she was cleaning up. When another coworker went out to smoke a cigarette, she reportedly saw two black garbage bags in Redas vehicle. The vehicle was unlocked; the coworker looked inside the garbage bags and reportedly found a watch, vase and jewelry box with earrings and a necklace in the bags. The coworker took photo images of the bags content, contacted the facilitys director and sent her the images. The director reportedly recognized the watch as one belonging to a 97-year-old resident at the facility. Deputies spoke to Reda and asked her what was in the bags. Reda told deputies that the bags contained nail polish and other of her personal items. Reda refused to let deputies search the bags and stated she wished to remain silent. When shown a picture of a watch found in one of the bags, a 97-year-old resident said the watch belonged to her deceased husband. Reda was not in custody as of Monday. Her next court appearance was not available Monday. Best Buy Co., Inc. retails technology products in the United States and Canada. The company operates in two segments, Domestic and International. Its stores provide computing products, such as desktops, notebooks, and peripherals; mobile phones comprising related mobile network carrier commissions; networking products; tablets covering e-readers; smartwatches; and consumer electronics consisting of digital imaging, health and fitness, home theater, portable audio comprising headphones and portable speakers, and smart home products. The company's stores also offer appliances, such as dishwashers, laundry, ovens, refrigerators, blenders, coffee makers, and vacuums; entertainment products consisting of drones, peripherals, movies, music, and toys, as well as gaming hardware and software, and virtual reality and other software products; and other products, such as baby, food and beverage, luggage, outdoor living, and sporting goods. In addition, it provides consultation, delivery, design, health-related, installation, memberships, repair, set-up, technical support, and warranty-related services. The company offers its products through stores and websites under the Best Buy, Best Buy Ads, Best Buy Business, Best Buy Health, CST, Current Health, Geek Squad, Lively, Magnolia, Best Buy Mobile, Pacific Kitchen, Home, and Yardbird, as well as domain names bestbuy.com, currenthealth.com, lively.com, yardbird.com, and bestbuy.ca. As of January 30, 2022, it had 1,144 stores. The company was formerly known as Sound of Music, Inc. The company was incorporated in 1966 and is headquartered in Richfield, Minnesota. CarMax, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a retailer of used vehicles in the United States. The company operates through two segments, CarMax Sales Operations and CarMax Auto Finance. It offers customers a range of makes and models of used vehicles, including domestic, imported, and luxury vehicles, as well as hybrid and electric vehicles; and extended protection plans to customers at the time of sale, as well as sells vehicles that are approximately 10 years old and has more than 100,000 miles through wholesale auctions. The company also provides reconditioning and vehicle repair services; and financing alternatives for retail customers across a range of credit spectrum through its CarMax Auto Finance and arrangements with various financial institutions. As of February 28, 2022, it operated approximately 230 used car stores. CarMax, Inc. was founded in 1993 and is based in Richmond, Virginia. CALEDONIA A 37-year-old Caledonia man is facing charges after allegedly being caught drunken driving for the fourth time and disobeying officers while he was in custody. Jeffrey A. Ouellette, of the 6900 block of Surrey Lane, was charged Monday with his fourth operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated charge a felony and misdemeanor charges of obstructing an officer and disorderly conduct. According to the criminal complaint: On Sunday, in the area of North Green Bay and Three Mile roads in Caledonia, officers saw a vehicle, reportedly driven by Ouellette, traveling 73 mph in a 35-mph-hour zone. An officer pulled Ouellettes vehicle over and could allegedly smell a strong odor of intoxicants on Ouellette. His speech was also reportedly slurred and he had difficulty standing. Ouellette allegedly refused sobriety tests and was transported to the hospital for a forced blood draw. While at the hospital, Ouellette reportedly refused to comply with numerous lawful orders from the officers. Ouellette also allegedly attempted to stare down officers and yelled and screamed, creating a disturbance for patients and staff within the hospital. Ouellette remained in custody as of Monday afternoon on a $2,000 cash bond, online records show. A preliminary hearing is scheduled on Oct. 26 at the Law Enforcement Center, 717 Wisconsin Ave. RACINE Its 5:30 on a Monday evening at Knapp Elementary School, and a small group of parents and their kids are gathered around a table talking about their day. Pointing to a fabric rose, Kristine Jacobs, a child and family therapist with the Childrens Hospital of Wisconsin, asks the attendees to talk about the things in their day that were rosy or thorny, and about any budding plans or hopes they have for tomorrow. What from today is your beautiful moment? That is your rose, asked Jacobs, who works out of the schools mental health clinic. Your bud: That is what you want for tomorrow And then thorn. Was there something from today that wasnt good, that is still rubbing you the wrong way? The activity was Jacobs way getting the group two moms and a father and his eighth-grade daughter settled into a discussion about stress and wellness. Later she led the group through an exploration of the eight areas of wellness and discussed tips for spotting and managing stress. Called Whole Body Stress, Whole Body Healing, the presentation was one of two programs that helped launch Racine Unified School Districts outreach initiative, Parent University. Organized by Unifieds Office of Family & Community Engagement, the effort is aimed at helping parents become full partners in their children's education, by offering free workshops, information sessions, activities and events that will equip families with new or additional skills, knowledge, resources and confidence. The workshops are open not just to parents, but the community at large. The district currently has about a half dozen presentations scheduled through the end of October on topics such as parenting, wellness and academics. The program is an engagement strategy designed to encourage parents to build and enhance their capacity and confidence to gain new skills and knowledge (so they can) better support the life skills and academic success of their children, said Chrishirella Sutton, manager of the Office of Family & Community Engagement. Of the parents who gathered at Knapp for Jacobs presentation on Oct. 9, none came from Knapp. Instead there were families from Walden, McKinley and Goodland schools. Each said they had gotten a prerecorded phone message from the district letting them know about the program. During the rose, bud, thorn exercise, parent Gaynell Beaudin said her rose for the day was Jacobs presentation. I am always looking for more resources for mindfulness, grounding and meditation, she said. Information about upcoming Parent University presentations is available via the districts website, at www.rusd.org/district/parent-university-0, or by calling the Office of Family & Community Engagement at 262-631-7071 or 262-631-7053. Daimler AG, together its subsidiaries, develops and manufactures passenger cars, trucks, vans, and buses in Germany and internationally. It operates through Mercedes-Benz Cars & Vans, Daimler Trucks and Buses, and Daimler Mobility segments. The Mercedes-Benz Cars segment offers premium and luxury vehicles of the Mercedes-Benz brand, including the Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach, and Mercedes-EQ brands; small cars under the smart brand name; and ecosystem of Mercedes-Benz under the Mercedes me brand, as well as vans and related services under the Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner brands. Daimler Trucks and Buses segment offers its trucks and special vehicles under the Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner, Western Star, FUSO, and BharatBenz brands; and buses under the Mercedes-Benz, Setra, Thomas Built Buses, and FU brands, as well as bus chassis. The Daimler Mobility segment provides financing and leasing packages for end-customers and dealers; and automotive insurance brokerage, banking, investment, and fleet management services under the Athlon brand. It also sells vehicle related spare parts and accessories. Daimler AG was founded in 1886 and is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. manufactures and sells cellulose specialty products in the United States, China, Canada, Japan, Europe, Latin America, other Asian countries, and internationally. The company operates through High Purity Cellulose, Paperboard, and High-Yield Pulp segments. Its products include cellulose specialties, which are natural polymers that are used as raw materials to manufacture a range of consumer-oriented products, such as liquid crystal displays, impact-resistant plastics, thickeners for food products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, cigarette filters, high-tenacity rayon yarn for tires and industrial hoses, food casings, paints, and lacquers. The company also offers commodity products, such as commodity viscose pulp used in woven applications, including rayon textiles for clothing and other fabrics, as well as in non-woven applications comprising baby wipes, cosmetic and personal wipes, industrial wipes, and mattress ticking; and absorbent materials consisting of fluff fibers that are used as an absorbent medium in disposable baby diapers, feminine hygiene products, incontinence pads, convalescent bed pads, industrial towels and wipes, and non-woven fabrics. In addition, it provides paperboards for packaging, printing documents, brochures, promotional materials, paperback books or catalog covers, file folders, tags, and tickets; and high-yield pulps to produce paperboard and packaging products, printing and writing papers, and various other paper products. The company was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. 12500 N.E. Tenth Place Bellevue, WA 98005 JPFO.org 800-869-1884 info@jpfo.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oct 17, 2017 Contact Boyd Kneeland JPFO OFFICIAL POSITION ON "BUMP" STOCKS: "Infringing on 'bump' stocks would justify infringing on any firearm or device. We adamantly oppose that." JPFO rejects proposed accessory-regulations outright, and you should too. --> Look hard at incessant promotion of merciless slaughter by Hollywood and on TV. There"s only one reason both political parties, pundits and some groups are suddenly calling for infringing on gun accessoriesbecause a homicidal maniac senselessly murdered scores of people using one recently. Using the acts of a psychotic spree killer, with media incitement of the masses to propose law, is simply wrong. By this "logic," officials and their allies could justify banning every firearm in public hands. Proposed bans and regulations on slide stocks are no different than any other gun-control proposals to limit freedoms you currently possess, and the reasons here are worse. In the false name of safety, hoplophobes, political elitists and demagogues seek to subarm you, while leaving insanely armed psychopaths ignored. Hollywood and TV continues to pump outrageous mass-slaughter gun fantasy into our lives, insisting it has no effect, reaping billions, while body counts grow. JPFO insists that attention get paid to mass media's rampant contribution to social decay in America, leading to increasingly frequent aberrant behavior, which media fails to recognizeor denies. The Bonnie-and-Clyde glory consciously heaped on abject villains is a factor, face it. If democrats or republicans enact any new infringement, easily spotted because it further restricts something you are currently free to do or own, they should be brought up on charges. Infringement is forbidden under oath, not something officials are empowered to do. That has a name. Usurping power is a serious offense. ##### See the Don't Inspire Evil Initiative, broadly supported by police and civil-rights groups. http://jpfo.org/alerts2016/alert20160308.htm Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership, http://www.jpfo.org is America's most aggressive civil-rights organization, dedicated to destroying the notion of "gun control" as any kind of credible public-policy position. So-called "gun control" does not control guns and doesn't control criminal behavior. What it does do is disarm the innocent, leaving them helpless in the face of criminals, tyrannical governments and genocide. History repeatedly proves this fact. Founded in 1989 by Aaron Zelman as a response to the Holocaust, JPFO speaks with the moral authority and tenacious commitment of survivors of persecution, and knows that surrendering your personal and family safety to government protection courts disaster. "You don't have to be Jewish to fight by our side, you just have to love liberty." Back to Top The following companies are subsidiares of Community Health Systems: AF-CH-HH LLC, ARMC L.P., ASC JV Holdings LLC, Abilene Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Abilene Hospital LLC, Abilene Merger LLC, Access Center Services LLC, Affinity Cardio-Thoracic Specialists LLC, Affinity Cardiovascular Specialists LLC, Affinity Gastroenterology ASC LLC, Affinity Health Systems LLC, Affinity Hospital LLC, Affinity Orthopedic Specialists LLC, Affinity Physician Services LLC, Affinity Radiation Therapy Services LLC, Affinity Skilled Nursing LLC, Alabama HMA Physician Management LLC, Alaska Physician Services LLC, Alice Regional Hospital Community Alliance Inc., Alliance Health Partners LLC, Ambulance Services of Dyersburg Inc., Ambulance Services of McNairy Inc., Amory HMA LLC, Amory HMA Physician Management LLC, Angelo Community Healthcare Services Inc., Anniston HMA LLC, Arizona ASC Management Inc., Arizona DH LLC, Arizona Medco LLC, Arkansas HMA Regional Service Center LLC, Arkansas Medical Imaging JV LLC, BH Trans Company LLC, Bartow HMA LLC, Bartow HMA Physician Management LLC, Batesville HMA Development LLC, Batesville HMA Medical Group LLC, Bayfront Ambulatory Surgical Center LLC, Bayfront HMA Convenient Care LLC, Bayfront HMA Healthcare Holdings LLC, Bayfront HMA Investments LLC, Bayfront HMA Medical Center LLC, Bayfront HMA Physician Management LLC, Bayfront HMA Real Estate Holdings LLC, Bayfront HMA Wellness Center LLC, Bayfront Health Imaging Center LLC, Beauco LLC, Beaumont Regional LLC, Biloxi H.M.A. LLC, Biloxi HMA Physician Management LLC, Biloxi Health System LLC, Birmingham Holdings II LLC, Birmingham Holdings LLC, Birmingham Home Care Services LLC, Blackwell HMA LLC, Blackwell HMPN LLC, Blackwell Home Health & Hospice LLC, Bluefield Holdings LLC, Bluffton Health System LLC, Bluffton Physician Services LLC, Brandon HMA LLC, Brandon Physician Management LLC, Brandywine Hospital Malpractice Assistance Fund Inc., Bravera Urgent Care LLC, Brazos Valley Surgical Center LLC, Brevard HMA ALF LLC, Brevard HMA APO LLC, Brevard HMA ASC LLC, Brevard HMA Diagnostic Imaging LLC, Brevard HMA HME LLC, Brevard HMA Holdings LLC, Brevard HMA Hospitals LLC, Brevard HMA Investment Properties LLC, Brevard HMA Nursing Home LLC, Brooksville HMA Physician Management LLC, Brownsville Clinic Corp., Brownsville Hospital Corporation, Brownwood Asset Holding Company LLC, Brownwood Hospital L.P., Brownwood Medical Center LLC, Bullhead City Clinic Corp., Bullhead City Hospital Corporation, Bullhead City Hospital Investment Corporation, Bullhead City Imaging Corporation, Bullhead Medical Pl, Bullhead Medical Plaza Ltd., CDI JV LLC, CHHS, CHHS Holdings LLC, CHHS Hospital Company LLC, CHS Kentucky Holdings LLC, CHS PSO LLC, CHS Pennsylvania Holdings LLC, CHS Realty Holdings I Inc., CHS Realty Holdings II Inc., CHS Realty Holdings III LLC, CHS Realty Holdings Joint Venture, CHS Receivables Funding LLC, CHS Tennessee Holdings LLC, CHS Virginia Holdings LLC, CHS Washington Holdings LLC, CHS-ASC LLC, CHS/Community Health Systems Inc., CHS/Community Health Systems Inc. Political Action Committ, CHSPSC ACO 1 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 10 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 11 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 12 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 13 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 14 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 15 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 16 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 17 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 18 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 19 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 2 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 20 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 21 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 22 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 23 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 24 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 25 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 26 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 27 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 28 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 29 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 3 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 30 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 4 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 5 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 6 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 7 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 8 LLC, CHSPSC ACO 9 LLC, CHSPSC ACO Holdings LLC, CHSPSC LLC, CHSPSC Leasing Inc., CP Hospital GP LLC, CP Premier Urgent Care JV LLC, CPLP LLC, CSMC LLC, Cadence Solutions Inc., Cahaba Orthopedics LLC, Campbell County HMA LLC, Cardiology Associates of Spokane LLC, Carlisle HMA LLC, Carlisle HMA Physician Management LLC, Carlisle HMA Surgery Center LLC, Carlisle Medical Group LLC, Carlsbad Medical Center LLC, Carolinas Holdings LLC, Carolinas JV Holdings General LLC, Carolinas JV Holdings II LLC, Carolinas JV Holdings L.P., Carolinas Medical Alliance Inc., Cedar Park Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Cedar Park Health System L.P., Cedar Park Surgery Center L.L.P., Cedar Park Surgery Center LLC, Center for Adult Healthcare LLC, Center for Medical Interoperability Inc. D, Center for Pain Management LLC, Central Florida HMA Holdings LLC, Central Polk LLC, Central States HMA Holdings LLC, Champion Sports Medicine Birmingham LLC, Chester HMA LLC, Chester HMA Physician Management LLC, Chester Medical Group LLC, Chester PPM LLC, Chesterton Surgery Center LLC, Chestnut Hill Health System LLC, Citrus HMA LLC, Clarksdale HMA LLC, Clarksdale HMA Physician Management LLC, Clarksville Endoscopy Center LLC, Clarksville Health System G.P., Clarksville Holdings II LLC, Clarksville Holdings LLC, Clarksville Home Care Services LLC, Clarksville Imaging Center LLC, Clarksville Physician Services G.P., Clarksville Surgicenter LLC, Cleveland ASC Holdings LLC, Cleveland Home Care Services LLC, Cleveland Hospital Company LLC, Cleveland Medical Clinic Inc., Cleveland PHO Inc., Cleveland Tennessee Hospital Company LLC, Clinton HMA LLC, Clinton HMPN LLC, Clinton Home Health & Hospice LLC, Coast Imaging LLC, Coatesville Hospital Corporation, Cocke County HMA LLC, Coffee Hospital Management Associates Inc., College Station Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, College Station Diagnostic Clinic, College Station Hospital L.P., College Station Medical Center LLC, College Station Merger LLC, College Station RHC Company LLC, Collier Boulevard HMA Physician Management LLC, Collier HMA Facility Based Physician Management LLC, Collier HMA Neurological Vascular Medical Group LLC, Collier HMA Physician Management LLC, Commonwealth Health Cancer Network LLC, Commonwealth Health Clinically Integrated Network LLC, Commonwealth Health IDTF LLC, Commonwealth Physician Network LLC, Community GP Corp., Community Health Investment Company LLC, Community Health Physicians Operations Holding Company LLC, Community Health Systems Foundation, Community Health Systems Inc., Community Information Network In, Community Insurance Group SPC LTD. Cayman Islan, Community LP Corp., Compass Imaging LLC, Credentialing Verification Services LLC, Crestview Hospital Corporation, Crestview Professional Condominiums Association Inc., Crestview Surgery Center L.P., Crestwood Clinic Services LLC, Crestwood Healthcare L.P., Crestwood Hospital LLC, Crestwood Hospital LP LLC, Crestwood Occupational Medicine/Convenient Care LLC, Crestwood Physician Services LLC, Crestwood Surgery Center LLC, Crossgates HMA Medical Group LLC, Crystal River HMA Physician Management LLC, DCF, DFW Physerv LLC, DH Cardiology LLC, DHFW Holdings LLC, Dallas Phy Service LLC, Dallas Physician Practice L.P., Deaconess Health System LLC, Deaconess Holdings LLC, Deaconess Hospital Holdings LLC, Deaconess Metropolitan Physicians LLC, Deaconess Physician Services LLC, Deming Home Care Services LLC, Desert Hospital Holdings LLC, Detar Hospital LLC, Detar/USP Surgery Center LLC, Diagnostic Imaging Centers of NE, Diagnostic Imaging Management of Brandywine Valley LLC, Diagnostic Imaging of Brandywine Valley LP, Dukes Health System LLC, Dukes Physician Services LLC, Dupont Bus, Dupont Hospital LLC, Durant H.M.A. LLC, Durant HMA Home Health LLC, Durant HMA Physician Management LLC, Dyersburg Clinic Corp., Dyersburg HBP Medical Group LLC, Dyersburg Hospital Company LLC, EGF LLC, EL MED LLC, East Georgia HMA Physician Management LLC, East Georgia Regional Medical Center LLC, East Tennessee Clinic Corp., Easton Hospital Malpractice Assistance Fund Inc., El Dorado Home Care Services LLC, El Dorado Surgery Center L.P., Eligibility Screening Services LLC, Empire Health Services, Emporia Clinic Corp., Emporia Hospital Corporation, Enterprise Clinic LLC, FMG PrimeCare LLC, FSED Management of Northwest Arkansas LLC, FSED Management of West Florida LLC, FWBH LLC, Fallbrook Hospital Corporation, First Choice Health Plan of Mississippi LLC, Firstcare , Florida Endoscopy and Surgery Center LLC, Florida HMA Holdings LLC, Florida HMA Regional Service Center LLC, Florida West Coast Health Alliance LLC, Flowood Mississippi Imaging LLC, Flowood River Oaks HMA Medical Group LLC, Foley Clinic Corp., Foley Hospit, Fort Smith HMA LLC, Fort Smith HMA PBC Management LLC, Fort Smith HMA Physician Management LLC, Forum Health, Frankfort Health Partner , Franklin Clinic Corp., Franklin Hospital Corporation, GRB Real Estate LLC, GRMC Holdings LLC, Gads, Gadsden HMA Physician Management LLC, Gadsden Region, Gadsden Surgery Center Ltd., Gaffney Clinic Company LLC, Gaffney H.M.A. LLC, Gaffney HMA Physician Management LLC, Gateway Medical Services Inc., Granbury Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Granbury Hospital Corporation, Granbury Mammography JV LLC, Grandview Medical Group Research LLC, Greenbrier VMC LLC, Greenbrier Valley Anesthesia LLC, Greenbrier Valley Emergency Physicians LLC, Gulf Coast HMA Physician Management LLC, Gulf South Surgery Center LLC, Gulfmed Inc., HIM Central Services LLC, HMA, HMA ASC Holdings LLC, HMA ASCOA Holdings LLC, HMA Bay, HMA CAT LLC, HMA Employee Disaster Relief Fund Inc., HMA Fentress County General Hospital LLC, HMA Hospital Holdings LP, HMA Lake Shore Inc., HMA MRI LLC, HMA Professional Services Group LP, HMA Santa Rosa Medical Center LLC, HMA Services GP LLC, HMA-TRI Holdings LLC, HMA/Solantic Joint Venture LLC, HOF ASC Holdings LLC, HP LRHS Land LLC, HTI Tucson Rehabilitation Inc., Haines City HMA LLC, Haines City HMA Physician Management LLC, Haines City HMA Urgent Care LLC, Hallmark Healthcare Company LLC, Harrison HMA LLC, Harton Clinic Company LLC, Hartsville ENT LLC, Hartsville HMA Physician Management LLC, Hattiesburg Home Care Services LLC, Health Education Services LLC, Health Management Associates, Health Management Associates LLC, Health Management Associates LP, Health Management General Partner I LLC, Health Management General Partner LLC, Health Management Information Technology LLC, Health Management Intellectual Properties LLC, Health Management Physician Associates LLC, HealthTrust Purchasing Group L.P., Healthwest Holdings Inc., Heritage Healthcare Innovation Fund II LP, Heritage Healthcare Innovation Fund III LP, Hernando HMA LLC, Highland Health Systems Inc., Highway 90 Development LLC, Hill Country ASC Partners L.L.C., Hill Regional Clinic Corp., Hobbs Medco LLC, Hood Medical Group, Hood Medical Services Inc., Hospital Laundry Services , Hospital Management Associates LLC, Hospital Management Services of, Hospital of Fulton Inc., Hospital of Morristown LLC, Hot Springs Outpatient Surgery Center G.P., INACTCO Inc., IOM Health System L.P., Imaging JV Holdings LLC, Intermountain Medical Group Inc., Jackson HMA LLC, Jackson HMA North Medical Office Building LLC, Jackson Home Care Services LLC, Jackson Hospital Corporation, Jackson Tennessee Hospital Company LLC, Jamestown HMA Physician Management LLC, Jefferson ASC Holdings LLC, Jefferson ASC LLC, Jefferson County HMA LLC, Jennersville Regional Hospital Malpractice Assistance Fund Inc., Jourdanton Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Jourdanton Hospital Corporation, Kay County, Kay County Clinic Company LLC, Kay County Hospital Corporation, Kennett HMA LLC, Kennett HMA Physician Management LLC, Key West HMA LLC, Key West HMA Physician Management LLC, Key West Home Health LLC, Key West Private Care LLC, Keystone HMA Property Management LLC, Kirksville Academic Medicine LLC, Kirksville Clinic Corp., Kirksville Home Care Services LLC, Kirksville Hospital Company LLC, Kirksville Missouri Hospital Company LLC, Kirksville Physical Therapy Services LLC, Knox Hospital Company LLC, Knoxville Center for Behavioral Medicine LLC, Knoxville HMA Cardiology PPM LLC, Knoxville HMA Development LLC, Knoxville HMA Family Services LLC, Knoxville HMA Holdings LLC, Knoxville HMA Homecare DME & Hospice LLC, Knoxville HMA JV Holdings LLC, Knoxville HMA Mission Services LLC, Knoxville HMA Physician Management LLC, Knoxville HMA Wellness Center LLC, Knoxville Home Care Services LLC, Knoxville Rehabilitation Hospital LLC, Knoxville Tennessee Turkey Creek MOB LLC, Kosciusko Ambulance Services LLC, Kosciusko Medical Group LLC, LHT Knoxville Properties LLC, LRH LLC, La Porte Clinic Company LLC, La Porte Health System LLC, La Porte Home Care Services LLC, La Porte Hospital Company LLC, La Porte Occupational Health Services LLC, La Porte and Starke EMS LLC, Lake Shore HMA LLC, Lake Shore HMA Medical Group LLC, Lake Wales Clinic Corp., Lake Wales Hospital Corporation, Lake Wales Hospital Investment Corporation, Lake Wales Imaging Center LLC, Lakeway Hospital Company LLC, Lancaster Clinic Corp., Lancaster HMA LLC, Lancaster HMA Physician Management LLC, Lancaster Hospital Corporation, Lancaster Imaging Center LLC, Lancaster Medical Group HMA LLC, Lancaster Medical Group LLC, Lancaster Out, Langtree Endoscopy Center LLC, Laredo Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Laredo Texas Hospital Company L.P., Las Cruces ASC-GP LLC, Las Cruces Home Care Services LLC, Las Cruces Medical Center LLC, Las Cruces Physician Services LLC, Las Cruces Surgery Center L.P., Las Cruces Surgery Center Telshor LLC, Lea Regional Hospital LLC, Lebanon HMA LLC, Lebanon HMA Physician Management LLC, Lebanon HMA Surgery Center LLC, Lehigh HMA LLC, Lehigh HMA Physician Management LLC, Little Rock HMA Inc., Live Oak HMA LLC, Live Oak HMA Medical Group LLC, Lone Star HMA L.P., Lone Star HMA Physician Management Inc., Longview Clinic Operations Company LLC, Longview Medical Center L.P., Longview Merger LLC, Louisburg HMA Physician Management LLC, Lower, Lufkin Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Lutheran Health Imaging LLC, Lutheran Health Network Investors LLC, Lutheran Health Network of Indiana LLC, Lutheran Health Quality Alliance LLC, Lutheran Medical Group LLC, Lutheran Medical Office Park Phase II Property Owners Association , Lutheran Medical Office Park Property Owners Association , Lutheran Musculoskeletal Center LLC, Lutheran/TRMA Network LLC, MCSA L.L.C., MDSave Inc., MEDSTAT LLC, Madison Clinic Corp., Madison HMA LLC, Madison HMA Physician Management LLC, Madison Health System LLC, Marion Physician Services LLC, Marion Regional Healthcare System, Marshall County HMA LLC, Marshall County HMPN LLC, Martin Clinic Corp., Martin Hospital Company LLC, Mary Black Health System LLC, Mary Black HealthNetwork Inc., Mary Black MOB II Limited Partnership, Mary Black Medical Office Building Limited Partnership, Mary Black Physician Services LLC, Mary Black Physicians Group LLC, Mat-Su Regional ASC GP LLC, Mat-Su Regional Surgery Center L.P., Mat-Su Valley II LLC, Mat-Su Valley III LLC, Mat-Su Valley Medical Center LLC, Mayes County HMA LLC, Mayes County HMPN LLC, McKenna Court Homes LLC, McNairy Clinic Corp., McNairy Hospital Corporation, Medical Center of Brownwood LLC, Melbourne HMA LLC, Melbourne HMA Medical Group LLC, Mercy Cardiovascular Cath Lab LLC, Merger Legacy Holdings LLC, Mesquite HMA General LLC, Metro Knoxville HMA LLC, Michigan City MOB LLC, Middlebrook ASC LLC, Middlebrook Property Partners LLC, Midwest City HMA Physician Management LLC, Midwest Regional Medical Center LLC, Mississippi HMA Holdings I LLC, Mississippi HMA Holdings II LLC, Mississippi HMA Hospitalists LLC, Moberly Hospital Company LLC, Moberly Medical Clinics Inc., Moberly Physicians Corp., Mooresville HMA Investors LLC, Mooresville HMA Physician Management LLC, Mooresville Home Care Services LLC, Mooresville Hospital Management Associates LLC, Mooresville PPM LLC, Morristown Clinic Corp., Morristown Surgery Center LLC, Munroe HMA HMPN LLC, Munroe HMA Holdings LLC, Munroe HMA Hospital LLC, NC-DSH LLC, NOV Holdings LLC, NRH LLC, Naples HMA LLC, Natchez Clinic Company LLC, Natchez HBP Services LLC, Natchez Hospital Company LLC, National Healthcare of Leesville Inc., National Healthcare of Newport Inc., Navarro Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Navarro Hospital L.P., Navarro Regional LLC, New Cedar Lake Surgery Center LLC, Newport Physician Clinics Inc., North Okaloosa Clinic Corp., North Okaloosa Home Health LLC, North Okaloosa Medical Corp., North Okaloosa Surgery Venture Corp., Northampton Cardiology Clinic LLC, Northampton Clinic Company LLC, Northampton Hospital Company LLC, Northampton Physician Services Corp., Northampton Urgent Care LLC, Northern, Northwest Allied Physicians LLC, Northwest Arkansas Employees LLC, Northwest Arkansas HBP Services LLC, Northwest Arkansas Hospitals LLC, Northwest Arkansas Paramed Transfer LLC, Northwest Benton County Physician Services LLC, Northwest Cardiology LLC, Northwest HBP Medical Services LLC, Northwest Hospital Cardiac Diagnostics L.P., Northwest Hospital LLC, Northwest Imaging Associates LLC, Northwest Indiana Health System LLC, Northwest Physicians LLC, Northwest Sahuarita Hospital LLC, Northwest Urgent Care LLC, Northwest-Sparks Quality Alliance LLC, OPS Dupont LLC, Oak Hill Clinic Corp., Oak Hill Hospital Corporation, Oklahoma City ASC-GP LLC, Olive Branch Clinic Corp., Olive Branch Hospital Inc., One Boyertown Properties L.P., Open Air of MSLOU L.L.C., Oro Valley Hospital LLC, Osler HMA Medical Group LLC, PBEC HMA Inc., Pacific Group ASC Division Inc., Pacific Physicians Services LLC, Palmer-Wasilla Health System LLC, Palmetto Tri-County Medical Specialists LLC, Parkway Regional Medical Clinic Inc., Pasco Hernando HMA Physician Management LLC, Pasco Regional Medical Center LLC, Payson Healthcare Management Inc., Payson Hospital Corporation, Peckville Hospital Company LLC, Pecos Valley of New Mexico LLC, Pennsylvania Hospital Company LLC, Personal Home Health Care LLC, Petersburg Clinic Company LLC, Petersburg Hospital Company LLC, Phoenixville Hospital Company LLC, Phoenixville Hospital Malpractice Assistance Fund Inc., Physician Practice Support LLC, Piedmont Surgical Center of Excellence LLC, Piney Woods Healthcare System L.P., Polk Medical Services Inc., Ponca City Home Care Services LLC, Poplar Bluff Physician Management LLC, Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center LLC, Port Charlotte HBP Services LLC, Port Charlotte HMA LLC, Port Charlotte HMA Physician Management LLC, Porter Health Services LLC, Porter Hospital LLC, Porter Physician Services LLC, Pottstown Hospital Company LLC, Pottstown Hospital Corporation, Pottstown Imaging Company LLC, Pottstown Memorial Malpractice Assistance Fund Inc., Preferential Health Network Inc., Premier Care Super PHO LLC, PremierC, Professional Account Services Inc., Punta Gorda HMA LLC, Punta Gorda HMA Physician Management LLC, Punta Gorda Medical Arts Center Association Inc., QHG Georgia Holdings II LLC, QHG Georgia Holdings Inc., QHG Georgia LP, QHG of, QHG of Barberton Inc., QHG of Bluffton Company LLC, QHG of Cl, QHG of Enterprise Inc., QHG of Forrest County Inc., QHG of Fort Wayne Company LLC, QHG of Hattiesburg Inc., QHG of South Carolina Inc., QHG of Spartanburg Inc., QHG of Springdale Inc., QHG of Texas Inc., QHG of Warsaw Company LLC, ROH LLC, Rankin Cardiology Center LLC, Regional Cardiology Group LLC, Regional Clinics of Longview, Regional Employee Assistance Program, Regional Hospital of Longview LLC, Rehab Hospital of Fort Wayne General Partnership, Revenue Cycle Service Center LLC, River Oaks Hospital LLC, River Oaks Management Company LLC, River Oaks Medical Office Building LLC, River Region Medical Corporation, Riverview Regional Medical Center LLC, Rockledge HMA Convenient Care LLC, Rockledge HMA LLC, Rockledge HMA Medical Group LLC, Rockledge HMA Urgent Care LLC, Rockwood Clinic Real Estate Holdings LLC, Ronceverte Physician Group LLC, Rose City HMA LLC, Rose City HMA Medical Group LLC, Roswell Clinic Corp., Roswell Hospital Corporation, Russell County Clinic Corp., Russell County Medical Center Inc., Ruston Clinic Company LLC, Ruston Hospital Corporation, Ruston Louisiana Hospital Company LLC, SACMC LLC, SEPA Integrated Provi, SJ Home Care LLC, SS ParentCo. LLC, Salem Clinic Corp., Salem Home Care Holdings LLC, Salem Home Care Services LLC, Salem Hospital Corporation, Salem Medical Professionals Inc., Samaritan Surgicenters of Arizona II LLC, San Angelo Community Medical Center LLC, San Angelo Hospital L.P., San Angelo Medical LLC, Santa Rosa HMA Physician Management LLC, Santa Rosa HMA Urgent Care LLC, Scott County HMA LLC, Scranton Cardiovascular Physician Services LLC, Scranton Clinic Company LLC, Scranton Emergency Physician Services LLC, Scranton GP Holdings LLC, Scranton Holdings LLC, Scranton Hospital Company LLC, Scranton Hospitalist Physician Services LLC, Scranton Quincy Ambulance LLC, Scranton Quincy Clinic Company LLC, Scranton Quincy Holdings LLC, Scranton Quincy Home Care Services LLC, Scranton Quincy Hospital Company LLC, Scranton Quincy QRFS LLC, Sebastian HMA Physician Management LLC, Sebastian Home Care Services LLC, Sebastian Hospital LLC, Sebastopol LLC, Sebring HMA Physician Management LLC, Sebring Hospital Management Associates LLC, Select Specialty Hospital - Tucson LLC, Select Tucson Holdings LLC, Seminole HMA LLC, Seminole HMPN LLC, Seven Hills Community Medical Center Condominium Association Inc., Sharon Clinic Company LLC, Sharon Pennsylvania Holdings LLC, Sharon Pennsylvania Hospital Company LLC, Sharon Regional HBP Medical Group LLC, Shelby Alabama Real Estate LLC, Shelbyville Clinic Corp., Shelbyville Home Care Services LLC, Shelbyville Hospital Company LLC, Siloam Springs Arkansas Hospital Company LLC, Siloam Springs Clinic Company LLC, Siloam Springs Holdings LLC, Silver Creek MRI LLC, SkyRidge Clinical Associates LLC, Solis Mammography at Navarro Regional Hospital LLC, South Abilene Radiology LLC, South Arkansas Physician Services LLC, SouthCrest L.L.C., Southeast, Southeast HMA Holdings LLC, Southern Health Network Inc., Southern Texas Medical Center LLC, Southsi, Southwest Florida HMA Holdings LLC, Southwest Physicians Risk Retention Group Inc., Sparks PremierC, Spokane Valley Washington Hospital Company LLC, Spokane Washington Hospital Company LLC, Spring Hill HMA Medical Group LLC, Springdale Home Care Services LLC, Sprocket Medical Management LLC, St. Joseph Health System LLC, Starke HMA LLC, Starke HMA Medical Group LLC, Statesboro HMA Medical Group LLC, Statesboro HMA Physician Management LLC, Statesville HMA LLC, Statesville HMA Medical Group LLC, StrokeCareNow LLC, Summit Surgical Suites LLC, Supply Chain Shared Service Center LLC, Surgi, Surgical Center of Carlsbad LLC, Surgicare Outpatient Center of, Surgicare of Clarksville LLC, Surgicare of Independence Inc., Surgicare of Sherman Inc., Surgicenters of America Inc., Susitna ASC Holdings LLC, Susitna Surgery Center LLC, Tennessee HMA Holdings LP, Tennessee HMA Regional Service Center LLC, Tennova Medical Park Property Owners Association Inc., Tennyson Holdings LLC, Terrell Medical Center LLC, Texas Bay Area Clinical Services Inc., The Sleep Disorder Center of Wyoming Valley LLC, The Surgery Center LLC, The Vicksburg Clinic LLC, Timberland Medical Group, Tomball Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Tomball Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Tomball Texas Holdings LLC, Tomball Texas Hospital Company LLC, Tomball Texas Ventures LLC, Tri-Irish Inc., Triad Healthcare LLC, Triad Holdings III LLC, Triad Holdings IV LLC, Triad Holdings V LLC, Triad Hospitals, Triad Indiana Holdings LLC, Triad Nevada Holdings LLC, Triad of Alabama LLC, Triad of Arizona L.P. Inc., Triad of Phoenix Inc., Triad-, Triad-ARMC LLC, Triad-Arizona I Inc., Triad-El Dorado Inc., Triad-Navarro Regional Hospital Subsidiary LLC, Triad-South Tulsa Hospital Company Inc., Tucson Home Care Services LLC, Tug Valley Healthcare Alliance Inc., Tullahoma HMA LLC, Tullahoma HMA Physician Management LLC, Utilization Review Services LLC, VHC Medical LLC, Valley Advanced Imag, Valley Advanced MRI LLC, ValleyCare Cardiology Group LLC, Valparaiso Home Care Services LLC, Van Buren H.M.A. LLC, Van Buren HMA Central Business Office LLC, Vanderbilt-Gateway Cancer Center G.P., Venice HMA LLC, Venice Home Care Services LLC, Vero Beach Florida ASC LLC, Vicksburg Healthcare LLC, Victoria Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Victoria Clinic Asset Holding Company LLC, Victoria Hospital LLC, Victoria Texas Home Care Services LLC, Victoria of Texas L.P., Virginia Care Company LLC, Virginia Hospital Company LLC, VirtualHealthConnect LLC, WA-SPOK DH CRNA LLC, WA-SPOK DH Urgent Care LLC, WA-SPOK Kidney Care LLC, WA-SPOK Medical Care LLC, WA-SPOK Primary Care LLC, WA-SPOK Pulmonary & Critical Care LLC, WA-SPOK VH CRNA LLC, WA-SPOK VH Urgent Care LLC, WHMC LLC, Warren Ohio Hospital Company LLC, Warren Ohio Physician Services LLC, Warren Ohio Rehab Hospital Company LLC, Warsaw Health System LLC, Washington Clinic Corp., Washington Hospital Corporation, Washington Physician Corp., Weatherford Hospital Corporation, Weatherford Texas Hospital Company LLC, Webb County Texas Home Care Services LLC, Webb Hospital Corporation, Webb Hospital Holdings LLC, Wesley Health System LLC, Wesley HealthTrust Inc., Wesley Physician Services LLC, West Grove Hospital Company LLC, Western Arizona Regional Home Health and Hospice LLC, Wilkes-Barre Aca, Wilkes-Barre Behavioral Hospital Company LLC, Wilkes-Barre Behavioral Ventures LLC, Wilkes-Barre Clinic Company LLC, Wilkes-Barre Community Resi, Wilkes-Barre Holdings LLC, Wilkes-Barre Home Care Services LLC, Wilkes-Barre Hospital Company LLC, Wilkes-Barre Intermountain Clinic LLC, Wilkes-Barre Personal Care Services LLC, Wilkes-Barre Radiation Oncology LLC, Wiregrass Clinic LLC, Women & Childrens Hospital LLC, Womens He, Womens Health Partners LLC, Womens Health Specialists of Carlisle LLC, Woodland Heights Medical Center LLC, Woodward Clinic Company LLC, Woodward Health System LLC, Woodward Home Care Services LLC, Yakima HMA LLC, Yakima HMA Physician Management LLC, York Anesthesiology Physician Services LLC, York Clinic Company LLC, York Pathology Physician Services LLC, York Pennsylvania Holdings LLC, York Pennsylvania Hospital Company LLC, Youngstown Ohio Hospital Company LLC, Youngstown Ohio Laboratory Services Company LLC, Youngstown Ohio Outpatient Services Company LLC, Youngstown Ohio PSC LLC, and Youngstown Ohio Physician Services Company LLC. Read More 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 Mistras Group, Inc. provides technology-enabled asset protection solutions worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Services, International, and Products and Systems. It offers non-destructive testing services; predictive maintenance assessments of fixed and rotating assets; inline inspection for pipelines; and develops enterprise inspection database management software and plant condition management software. The company also provides maintenance and light mechanical services, such as corrosion removal, mitigation and prevention, insulation installation and removal, electrical, heat tracing, industrial cleaning, pipefitting, and welding; engineering consulting services primarily for process equipment, technologies, and facilities; and utilizes scaffolding and rope access to access at-height and confined assets. In addition, it offers certified divers for subsea inspection and maintenance; unmanned aerial, land-based, and subsea systems for inspection applications; online condition-monitoring solutions; quality assurance and quality control solutions for new and existing metal and alloy components, materials, and composites. Further, the company designs and installs monitoring systems, as well as provides commissioning, training, reporting, technical support, and annual maintenance services; Web-based solutions; and custom-developed software. Additionally, it designs, manufactures, and sells acoustic emission sensors, instruments, and turnkey systems for monitoring and testing materials, pressure components, processes, and structures, as well as automated ultrasonic systems and scanners. The company serves oil and gas, commercial aerospace and defense, fossil and nuclear power, alternative and renewable energy, industrial, public infrastructure, petrochemical, transportation, and process industries, as well as research and engineering institutions. Mistras Group, Inc. was founded in 1978 and is headquartered in Princeton Junction, New Jersey. A case for good governance There have been five Administrative Reforms Commissions but very little reform Newell Brands Inc. designs, manufactures, sources, and distributes consumer and commercial products worldwide. It operates in five segments: Commercial Solutions, Home Appliances, Home Solutions, Learning and Development, and Outdoor and Recreation. The Commercial Solutions segment provides commercial cleaning and maintenance solutions; closet and garage organization products; hygiene systems and material handling solutions; and home and security, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms products under the BRK, First Alert, Mapa, Quickie, Rubbermaid, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, and Spontex brands. The Home Appliances segment offers kitchen appliances under the Crock-Pot, Mr. Coffee, Oster, and Sunbeam brands. The Home Solutions segment provides food and home storage; fresh preserving; vacuum sealing; and gourmet cookware, bakeware, cutlery, and home fragrance products under the Ball, Calphalon, Chesapeake Bay Candle, FoodSaver, Rubbermaid, Sistema, WoodWick, and Yankee Candle brands. The Learning and Development segment offers writing instruments, including markers and highlighters, pens, and pencils; art products; activity-based adhesive and cutting products; labeling solutions; and baby gear and infant care products under the Aprica, Baby Jogger, Graco, NUK, Tigex, Dymo, Elmer's, EXPO, Graco, Mr. Sketch, NUK, Paper Mate, Parker, Prismacolor, Sharpie, Waterman, and X-Acto brands. The Outdoor and Recreation segment provides outdoor and outdoor-related products under the Campingaz, Coleman, Contigo, ExOfficio, and Marmot brands. It serves warehouse clubs, department and drug/grocery stores, mass merchants, home centers, office superstores and supply stores, contract stationers, and distributors, e-commerce, sporting goods, specialty, and travel retailers. The company was formerly known as Newell Rubbermaid Inc. and changed its name to Newell Brands Inc. in April 2016. Newell Brands Inc. was founded in 1903 and is based in Atlanta, Georgia. Energizer Holdings, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, markets, and distributes household batteries, specialty batteries, and lighting products worldwide. It offers lithium, alkaline, carbon zinc, nickel metal hydride, zinc air, and silver oxide batteries under the Energizer and Eveready brands, as well as primary, rechargeable, specialty, and hearing aid batteries. The company also provides headlights, lanterns, and children's and area lights, as well as flash lights under the Energizer, Eveready, Rayovac, Hard Case, Dolphin, Varta, and WeatherReady brands. In addition, it licenses the Energizer and Eveready brands to companies developing consumer solutions in gaming, automotive batteries, portable power for critical devices, LED light bulbs, generators, power tools, household light bulbs, and other lighting products. Further, the company designs and markets automotive fragrance and appearance products, including protectants, wipes, tire and wheel care products, glass cleaners, leather care products, air fresheners, and washes to clean, shine, refresh, and protect interior and exterior automobile surfaces under the brand names of Armor All, Nu Finish, Refresh Your Car!, LEXOL, Eagle One, California Scents, Driven, and Bahama & Co; STP branded fuel and oil additives, functional fluids, and other performance chemical products; and do-it-yourself automotive air conditioning recharge products under the A/C PRO brand name, as well as other refrigerant and recharge kits, sealants, and accessories. It sells its products through direct sales force, distributors, and wholesalers; and through various retail and business-to-business channels, including mass merchandisers, club, electronics, food, home improvement, dollar store, auto, drug, hardware, e-commerce, convenience, sporting goods, hobby/craft, office, industrial, medical, and catalog. Energizer Holdings, Inc. was incorporated in 2015 and is headquartered in Saint Louis, Missouri. Gildan Activewear Inc. manufactures and sells various apparel products in the United States, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. It provides various activewear products, including T-shirts, fleece tops and bottoms, and sports shirts under the Gildan, Gildan Performance, Gildan Hammer, Comfort Colors, American Apparel, Alstyle, and GoldToe brands. The company also offers hosiery products comprising athletic; dress; and casual, liner, therapeutic, and workwear socks, as well as sheer pantyhose, tights, and leggings under the Gildan, Under Armour, GoldToe, PowerSox, Signature Gold by Goldtoe, Peds, MediPeds, Therapy Plus, All Pro, Secret, Silks, Secret Silky, and American Apparel brands. In addition, it provides men's and boys' underwear products, and ladies panties under the Gildan and Gildan Platinum brands; and ladies' shapewear, intimates, and accessories under the Secret and Secret Silky brands. The company sells its products to wholesale distributors, screen printers, and embellishers, as well as to retailers and lifestyle brand companies. The company was formerly known as Textiles Gildan Inc. and changed its name to Gildan Activewear Inc. in March 1995. Gildan Activewear Inc. was founded in 1946 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada. A homecoming for Gachhadar Twenty six years ago, when the country held its first elections in 1991 after the restoration of democracy, Bijay Kumar Gachhadar made it to Parliament on the Nepali Congress (NC) ticket. Snap-on Incorporated manufactures and markets tools, equipment, diagnostics, and repair information and systems solutions for professional users worldwide. It operates through Commercial & Industrial Group, Snap-on Tools Group, Repair Systems & Information Group, and Financial Services segments. The company offers hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, ratchet wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, punches and chisels, saws and cutting tools, pruning tools, torque measuring instruments, and other products; power tools, such as cordless, pneumatic, hydraulic, and corded tools; and tool storage products comprising tool chests, roll cabinets, and other products. It also provides handheld and computer-based diagnostic products, service and repair information products, diagnostic software solutions, electronic parts catalogs, business management systems and services, point-of-sale systems, integrated systems for vehicle service shops, original equipment manufacturer purchasing facilitation services, and warranty management systems and analytics. In addition, the company offers solutions for the service of vehicles and industrial equipment that include wheel alignment equipment, wheel balancers, tire changers, vehicle lifts, test lane equipment, collision repair equipment, vehicle air conditioning service equipment, brake service equipment, fluid exchange equipment, transmission troubleshooting equipment, safety testing equipment, battery chargers, and hoists, as well as after-sales support services and training programs. Further, it provides financing programs to facilitate the sales of its products and support its franchise business. The company serves the aviation and aerospace, agriculture, construction, government and military, mining, natural resources, power generation, and technical education industries, as well as vehicle dealerships and repair centers. Snap-on Incorporated was founded in 1920 and is based in Kenosha, Wisconsin. 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. Ecolab Inc. provides water, hygiene, and infection prevention solutions and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Global Industrial, Global Institutional & Specialty, and Global Healthcare & Life Sciences segments. The Global Industrial segment offers water treatment and process applications, and cleaning and sanitizing solutions to manufacturing, food and beverage processing, transportation, chemical, metals and mining, power generation, pulp and paper, commercial laundry, petroleum, refining, and petrochemical industries. The Global Institutional & Specialty segment provides specialized cleaning and sanitizing products to the foodservice, hospitality, lodging, government and education, and retail industries. Its Global Healthcare & Life Sciences segment offers specialized cleaning and sanitizing products to the healthcare, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries, such as infection prevention and surgical solutions, and end-to-end cleaning and contamination control solutions under the Ecolab, Microtek, and Anios brand names. The company's Other segment offers pest elimination services to detect, eliminate, and prevent pests, such as rodents and insects in restaurants, food and beverage processors, educational and healthcare facilities, hotels, quick service restaurant and grocery operations, and other institutional and commercial customers. This segment also provides colloidal silica for binding and polishing applications in semiconductor, catalyst, and aerospace component manufacturing, as well as chemical industries; and products and services that manage wash process through custom designed programs, premium products, dispensing equipment, water and energy management, and reduction, as well as real time data management. It sells its products through field sales and corporate account personnel, distributors, and dealers. The company was founded in 1923 and is headquartered in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Animal citizens of Kathmandu When first arriving in Kathmandu, the most visually striking element was, to me, the dogs. BlackRock, Inc. is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to institutional, intermediary, and individual investors including corporate, public, union, and industry pension plans, insurance companies, third-party mutual funds, endowments, public institutions, governments, foundations, charities, sovereign wealth funds, corporations, official institutions, and banks. It also provides global risk management and advisory services. The firm manages separate client-focused equity, fixed income, and balanced portfolios. It also launches and manages open-end and closed-end mutual funds, offshore funds, unit trusts, and alternative investment vehicles including structured funds. The firm launches equity, fixed income, balanced, and real estate mutual funds. It also launches equity, fixed income, balanced, currency, commodity, and multi-asset exchange traded funds. The firm also launches and manages hedge funds. It invests in the public equity, fixed income, real estate, currency, commodity, and alternative markets across the globe. The firm primarily invests in growth and value stocks of small-cap, mid-cap, SMID-cap, large-cap, and multi-cap companies. It also invests in dividend-paying equity securities. The firm invests in investment grade municipal securities, government securities including securities issued or guaranteed by a government or a government agency or instrumentality, corporate bonds, and asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities. It employs fundamental and quantitative analysis with a focus on bottom-up and top-down approach to make its investments. The firm employs liquidity, asset allocation, balanced, real estate, and alternative strategies to make its investments. In real estate sector, it seeks to invest in Poland and Germany. The firm benchmarks the performance of its portfolios against various S&P, Russell, Barclays, MSCI, Citigroup, and Merrill Lynch indices. BlackRock, Inc. was founded in 1988 and is based in New York City with additional offices in Boston, Massachusetts; London, United Kingdom; Gurgaon, India; Hong Kong; Greenwich, Connecticut; Princeton, New Jersey; Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Sydney, Australia; Taipei, Taiwan; Singapore; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Washington, District of Columbia; Toronto, Canada; Wilmington, Delaware; and San Francisco, California. BT Group plc provides communications services worldwide. Its Consumer segment sells telephones, baby monitors, and Wi-Fi extenders through high street retailers, online BT Shop, and Website BT.com; and offers home phone, copper and fiber broadband, TV, and mobile services in various packages. The company's EE segment offers 2G, 3G, and 4G mobile network services; broadband, fixed-voice, and TV services; and postpaid and prepaid plans, and emergency services network. This segment also sells 4G mobile phones, tablets, connected devices, and mobile broadband devices from various manufacturers. Its Business and Public Sector segment provides fixed voice, mobility, fiber and connectivity, and networked IT services to retailers, utilities, public sector, healthcare, sports, construction, finance, and educational sectors. The company's Global Services segment offers business communications and ICT services comprising BT Connect, BT Security, BT One, BT Contact, BT Compute, BT Advise, and BT for financial markets. This segment serves approximately 5,500 customers in 180 countries. Its Wholesale and Ventures segment enables communications providers and other organizations to provide fixed or mobile phone services. Its ventures provide mass-market services, such as directory enquiries and payphones; and enterprise services comprising BT Fleet and BT Redcare. This segment also provides broadband and Ethernet, voice, hosted communication, mobile virtual network operator, managed solutions, machine-to-machine, roaming, and media services. The company's Openreach segment engages in the provision of services over the local access network; and installation and maintenance of fiber and copper communications networks that connect homes and businesses. The company was formerly known as Newgate Telecommunications Limited and changed its name to BT Group plc in September 2001. BT Group plc was incorporated in 2001 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Back to the village Migration is coded in our genes; people have always been moving around. The Out of Africa theory postulates that Homo sapiens migrated to the rest of the world around 70,000 years ago in search of food and a better life. Siemens Aktiengesellschaft, a technology company, focuses in the areas of automation and digitalization in Europe, Commonwealth of Independent States, Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, Asia, and Australia. It operates through Digital Industries, Smart Infrastructure, Mobility, Siemens Healthineers, and Siemens Financial Services segments. The Digital Industries segment offers automation systems and software for factories, numerical control systems, motors, drives and inverters, and integrated automation systems for machine tools and production machines; process control systems, machine-to-machine communication products, sensors and radio frequency identification systems; software for production and product lifecycle management, and simulation and testing of mechatronic systems; and cloud-based industrial Internet of Things operating systems. The Smart Infrastructure segment offers products, systems, solutions, services, and software to support sustainable transition in energy generation from fossil and renewable sources; sustainable buildings and communities; and buildings, electrification, and electrical products. The Mobility segment provides passenger and freight transportation, such as vehicles, trams and light rail, and commuter trains, as well as trains and passenger coaches; locomotives for freight or passenger transport and solutions for automated transportation; products and solutions for rail automation; electrification products; and intermodal solutions. The Siemens Healthineers segment develops, manufactures, and sells various diagnostic and therapeutic products and services; and provides clinical consulting services. The Siemens Financial Services segment offers debt and equity investments; leasing, lending, and working capital financing solutions; and equipment, project, and structured financing solutions. Siemens Aktiengesellschaft was founded in 1847 and is headquartered in Munich, Germany. South Jersey Industries, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides energy-related products and services. The company engages in the purchase, transmission, and sale of natural gas. It also sells natural gas and pipeline transportation capacity on a wholesale basis to residential, commercial, and industrial customers on the interstate pipeline system, as well as transports natural gas purchased directly from producers or suppliers to customers. As of December 31, 2021, the company had approximately 147 miles of mains in the transmission system and 6,815 miles of mains in the distribution system; and served 384,062 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in southern New Jersey. In addition, it markets natural gas storage, commodity, and transportation assets on a wholesale basis for energy marketers, electric and gas utilities, power plants, and natural gas producers in the mid-Atlantic, Appalachian, and southern regions of the United States. Further, the company owns and operates rooftop solar-generation sites. Additionally, it owns oil, gas, and mineral rights in the Marcellus Shale region of Pennsylvania; acquires and markets natural gas and electricity to retail end users, as well as provides total energy management, fuel management, and energy procurement and cost reduction services. The company was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in Folsom, New Jersey. Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. operates as a branded consumer products company worldwide. It operates through three segments: Home and Personal Care; Global Pet Care; and Home and Garden. The Home and Personal Care segment provides home appliances under the Black & Decker, Russell Hobbs, George Foreman, Toastmaster, Juiceman, Farberware, and Breadman brands; and personal care products under the Remington and LumaBella brands. The Global Pet Care segment provides rawhide chewing, dog and cat clean-up and food, training, health and grooming, small animal food and care, and rawhide-free products under the 8IN1 (8-in-1), Dingo, Nature's Miracle, Wild Harvest, Littermaid, Jungle, Excel, FURminator, IAMS, Eukanuba, Healthy-Hide, DreamBone, SmartBones, ProSense, Perfect Coat, eCOTRITION, Birdola, Good Boy, Meowee!, Wildbird, and Wafcol brands. This segment also offers aquarium kits, stand-alone tanks, and aquatics equipment and consumables under the Tetra, Marineland, Whisper, Instant Ocean, GloFish, OmegaOne, and OmegaSea brands. The Home and Garden segment provides outdoor insect and weed control solutions, and animal repellents under the Spectracide, Garden Safe, Liquid Fence, and EcoLogic brands; household pest control solutions under the Hot Shot, Black Flag, Real-Kill, Ultra Kill, The Ant Trap, and Rid-A-Bug brand names; household surface cleaning, maintenance, and restoration products, including bottled liquids, mops, wipes, and markers under the Rejuvenate brand name; and personal-use pesticides and insect repellent products under the Cutter and Repel brands. The company sells its products through retailers, e-commerce and online retailers, wholesalers, and distributors. Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. was incorporated in 2009 and is headquartered in Middleton, Wisconsin. Bhawan Bhatta elected NRNA president Bhawan Bhatta has been elected as President of Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) with a landslide majority. Public Storage is a REIT focused on acquiring, developing, owning, and operating self-storage facilities in the US and Europe. The company is a member of the S&P 500 and the FT Global 500 and is the worlds 4th largest REIT by market cap. Along with its holdings of self-storage facilities, the company owns a 42% stake in business park company PS Business Parks and is also in business selling packing and storage supplies. The company is headquartered in Glendale California. The company was founded in 1972 by B. Wayne Hughes and Kenneth Polk who used the leverage of investments from RELPs to grow the business. The original plan was to use the storage warehouses as a means of generating income until the properties were more valuable. The surprise is that demand for storage space was high and led to unexpected profitability. The company has more than 1,000 locations by 1989 and then, in 1995, it transformed itself into a publicly traded REIT. The transformation was spurred by tax changes that made RELPs obsolete. The transformation was done via a merger with Storage Equities which gave up its name in favor of Public Storage. The company grew again with the acquisition of Shurgard in 2006 but it has since been spun off as its own publicly traded company. Public Storage retains 36% ownership in Shurgard. As of September 2022, the company owned and operated 2,807 self-storage facilities in 39 states. The total area of rental space exceeded 2 million square feet serving nearly 2 million customers and generating close to $3.5 billion in annual revenues. Shurgard lays claim to another 239 facilities in the EU which amounts to another 13 minion square feet of storage space. PS Business Parks, Inc, which trades under the ticker (NYSE: PSB) owns and operates 28 million square feet of commercial space. Advantages of Public Storage include scale, leverage, and the balance sheet. The companys size and scale mean that more than half the US population lives within driving distance of a Public Storage facility. The company gives leverage through its three-pronged acquisition, development, and redevelopment strategy which are all supported by the balance sheet. The companys balance sheet is set up for growth and is able to self-fund most new projects. CEC asks CDOs to watch ministers for poll code violation Chief Election Commissioner Ayodhee Prasad Yadav has asked chief district officers to strictly monitor possible violation of the election code of conduct by ministers. Wipro Limited operates as information technology (IT), consulting, and business process services company worldwide. It operates through three segments: IT Services, IT Products, and India State Run Enterprise Services (ISRE). The IT Services segment offers IT and IT-enabled services, including digital strategy advisory, customer-centric design, technology and IT consulting, custom application design, development, re-engineering and maintenance, systems integration, package implementation, cloud and infrastructure, business process, cloud, mobility and analytics, research and development, and hardware and software design services to enterprises. It serves customers in various industry sectors, such as healthcare and medical devices, consumer goods and life sciences, retail, transportation and services, communications, media and information services, technology products and platforms, banking, financial services and insurance, manufacturing, hi-tech, energy, and utilities. The IT Products segment provides a range of third-party IT products comprising enterprise platforms, networking solutions, software and data storage products, contact center infrastructure, enterprise security, IT optimization technologies, video solutions, and end-user computing solutions. It serves enterprises in various industries primarily in the India market, which comprise the government, defense, IT and IT-enabled services, telecommunications, manufacturing, utilities, education, and financial services sectors. The ISRE segment offers IT services to entities and departments owned or controlled by the Government of India and/or various Indian State Governments. The company was incorporated in 1945 and is based in Bengaluru, India. Congress PR candidate arrested Police on Monday arrested a Nepali Congress (NC) leader in connection with the 88kg gold smuggling case. Country has ample untapped potentials to prosper rapidly Embarking on the path of progress and prosperity should be the only way forward to the country which has taken a historical stride towards settling political issues, especially after the promulgation of the new constitution, stressed speakers at a discussion programme here on Monday. Depoliticise NRNA Non-resident Nepalis (NRNs) have once again gathered in Kathmandu to attend the NRN Global Conference and International General Assembly. Draft farm bill envisages starting contract farming The government will further study the draft Agribusiness Promotion Bill that envisages implementing contract farming in Nepal, the Ministry of Agricultural Development said on Monday. Discover seven covers of The New York Times T Style Magazines annual The Greats issue featuring Nicki Minaj, Park Chan-Wook, Amy Adams, Claes Oldenburg, Stephen Sondheim, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Dries Van Noten. This is a magazine that traffics in the subjective. The people weve included here are not, and can never be, the best in their respective fields, because in art, there is never such a thing as the best. There are only the people who merely contribute to their medium (which is hard enough) and those who, in some way, change it change it so completely that we begin to categorize art or theater or music or design by what existed before them, and what existed after. The artist Claes Oldenburg, one of the last surviving and arguably most influential of the Pops, did this with his comically enormous soft sculptures of everyday items ice cream cones, hamburgers, slices of cake and in so doing, Randy Kennedy notes, removed sculpture from the realm of the monument. His works may be towering, but they are also human-size. Then theres Stephen Sondheim, the unmatched composer and lyricist of musical theater, among whose many achievements is, as Lin-Manuel Miranda writes, demolish[ing] any notions of the kinds of stories musical theater can tell. Only Sondheim could have found inspiration in violent barbers, ancient Roman farce and, even, the subject of creativity itself. Creativity also finds new expression in the gleefully, operatically bloody works of director Park Chan-wook, who has managed to both single-handedly define what Korean contemporary cinema is while at the same time reinventing film altogether. Or, on the other side of the camera, theres the actress Amy Adams, who as anyone whos seen her films knows can often convey what another actor might need pages of script to communicate simply by a widening of her arresting, expressive eyes. That heightened ability to communicate is one of the qualities that has made the writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie one of those rarest of people: a celebrated novelist who has also become a leading public intellectual. In a culturally splintered age, her writings on race, feminism and American privilege feel bracing, and true. Finally, theres Nicki Minaj, whose intelligence, ferocity, rhythmic and performative genius and sheer determination offers a rebuke to anyone man, critic, fellow artist who might dare to dismiss her. Editors Letter, Hanya Yanagihara Park Chan-Wook photographed by Oh Suk Kuhn Amy Adams photographed by Collier Schorr Claes Oldenburg photographed by Pieter Hugo Stephen Sondheim photographed by Colin Dodgson Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie photographed by Carrie Mae Weems Dries Van Noten photographed by Jackie Nickerson Nicki Minaj photographed by Patrick Demarchelier For more of The New York Times T Style Magazine visit: www.nytimes.com Naguib Sawiris of Orascom, Egypts largest private sector employer, is seeking to annul the latest ICSID ruling in its long running dispute with the Algerian government. Sawiris claims unlawful and arbitrary actions were taken by the Algerian Government against Orascoms operating company in Algeria, Djezzy, over a number of years. This resulted, it is claimed, in the sale of much of the Orascom Group, including Djezzy, at a drastic undervalue to a third party (VimpelCom now known as Veon) more closely aligned with the Algerian State in 2011. Earlier this year, the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) arbitration tribunal dismissed the claims as inadmissible under the investment treaty. However, Orascom is now challenging that decision by way of filing for annulment, which it submitted on 28 September 2017. Orascom entered Algeria in 2001, winning a competitive bid. The Group claims it invested over 5 billion in seven years, creating over 4,000 jobs and dramatically increasing phone usage in Algeria. However, things increasingly turned sour after 2008 according to Orascom, as the Algerian government turned its back on foreign ownership and investment. Numerous disputes occurred between operator and government, most notably the imposition of a US$1.3 billion fine on Djezzy based on allegations that it breached Algerian foreign exchange regulations. In total, the Orascom Group claims to have suffered losses amounting to 5 billion from the actions taken by the Algerian Government. VimpleCom/Veon appears to have fared little better than Orascom in its dealings in Algeria, eventually selling its 51% stake in Djezzy to the Algerian government, as reported on Developing Telecoms: https://www.developingtelecoms.com/business/operator-news/5249-vimpelcom-sells-51-of-djezzy-algeria.html. As per a survey conducted by Cohn & Wolfe, Google is the most authentic brand according to Indians, followed by Microsoft, Amazon.com, Maruti Suzuki and Apple. Indian consumers regard Google as the most authentic brand, even though Amazon.com tops the list globally, reveal results of a new survey on Tuesday. In India, Google is followed by Microsoft, Amazon.com, Maruti Suzuki and Apple. "Consumers today want to buy from companies that engage with them in a genuine way. Our research shows a link between brands that behave and communicate authentically and their ability to attract and keep customers -- and, ultimately, build stronger businesses," said Donna Imperato, CEO of global communications agency Cohn & Wolfe. Globally, Apple takes the second spot after Amazon in the authenticity race, according to the results revealed by Cohn & Wolfe. The global authenticity index puts Microsoft, Google and PayPal at third, fourth and fifth places respectively -- all technology brands, said the 2017 "Authentic Brands Study". According to the findings, 67 per cent of consumers in India report increased purchase interest in a brand they perceive as authentic. "Brands that behave and communicate with authenticity will build better relationships with customers and deliver improved user experiences," Matt Stafford, President of Asia Pacific, at Cohn & Wolfe, said. "To differentiate their offerings and grow market share, our research shows that brands in India need to focus on the three drivers of authenticity -- reliable, respectful and real," Stafford said. Cohn & Wolfe's Authentic Brands Study series examines the role of authenticity in business, the attributes associated with an authentic brand and the impact of authenticity on consumer, investor and employee attitudes and behaviours. This year's study covered India, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, United Arab Emirates, the UK and the US. The Alienware 15 R3 packs in an NVIDIA GTX 1070 along with an Intel Core i7 6700HQ. Although, this isnt the retail unit, it is pretty close in terms of performance. Alienware has certainly improved the build quality of the gaming laptops with added rigidity and ease of access for customisation. The lid doesnt extend as far back as most other gaming laptops and you dont get an SD card reader. Performance wise, wed like to mention that you should be getting a 240 W power adapter with the unit should you decide to get one. The 180 W adapter does not do any justice to the performance capabilities of this machine. Most laptops with a GTX 1070 cost around 1.7-1.8 lakhs. Since what weve received isnt the actual retail unit, we cant comment on the price using this particular configuration. However, if we are to look at the prices mentioned on Dells website then the Alienware 15 R3 does turn out to be more expensive than the likes of the MSI GE73VR and HP Omen W 250TX. However, these laptops dont quite have the same build quality as the Alienware 15 R3 so youre getting your moneys worth in that aspect. Alienware 15 R3 GTX 1070 detailed review Alienwares been around in India for far longer than any other dedicated gaming brand. So much that its the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of a gaming laptop. However, times have changed and we have a lot more brands focusing on gaming laptops in India at the moment, much to the benefit of the Indian customer. Before we get into the review of Alienware 15 R3, we must inform you that this particular model has the older 6th Gen Intel Core i7 6700HQ and all the retail units have either the Core i7-7700HQ or the Core i7-7820HQ (as per Dells website). The other difference is that the review unit has a 4K display while the Indian retail units are all sporting FHD displays. Review units arrive a little earlier than their retail counterparts so, youll have to excuse this little difference. Performance wise, the two are not that far apart since the primary focus is the GPU in a gaming laptop and that remains the same between the two units. Moreover, we ran all GPU benchmarks with the resolution set to FHD to get scores which are more relatable to the retail units. Alienware has both, the 15-inch series and the 17-inch series in India. The top-of-the-line Alienware 15 R3 comes with a GTX 1080 featuring NVIDIAs MAX-Q design. This wouldnt be the first Alienware laptop weve tested but its design certainly stands out and speaks of quality from the get go. A key point with the Alienware 15 R3 is that you have two power adapter options, 180 W and 240 W. There is a performance difference between the two so youll have to make your choice accordingly. Alienware 15 R3 Specifications MAX-Q enabled laptops are certainly not cheap, however, this isnt a MAX-Q laptop. One of the key differentiators of a MAX-Q enabled GPU is that its base clock is lower than the non-MAX-Q variant. In this case, the GPU is clocked at 1443 MHz which is what the non-MAX-Q units feature. Lets take a look at the other specifications of the Alienware 15 R3 gaming laptop. Alienware 15 R3 Specifications Processor 6700HQ 2.6 GHz Platform HM175 RAM FSB 2400 MHz RAM Capacity 32 GB Screen Size 15.6inches Screen Size 3840x2160 GPU 1070 8 GB SSD Toshiba XG4 OEM 1 TB HDD HGST Travelstar 1 TB 7200 RPM 32 MB Cache Ethernet Killer e2400 Wi-Fi Killer 1535 Audio Realtek Battery Li-ion 99 Whr (@11.4 volts) 8333 mAh AC Adapter 180 W / 240 W Weight 3.49 Kg Needless to say, youre going to be quite confused when you look up the specs on the Indian and US websites since the specifications are all over the place. Wed like to reiterate what we had mentioned earlier, that these benchmarks are indicative of the gaming performance of the Indian SKU since that aspect is dependant mostly on the GPU. And youll be getting better performance than whats shown here thanks to the 7th Gen CPU. Chassis Build The Alienware 15 R3 has no easy access hatch for the RAM or any of the storage medium on the bottom. Rather, the entire hatch needs to be taken off if you need to make any customisations. However, when you do take the bottom plate off, youre met with an additional faceplate. Doing so offers protection for the more sensitive components which dont need user intervention. The users just get access to the three SSD slots, RAM modules, Wi-Fi card slot and the HDD slot. Should you need to clean the heatsink fins, the rear has a detachable plastic assembly which can simply be unscrewed before pulling on the tabs. On the inside, we see that the hinges are placed closer to the centre with the heatsink fins taking up roughly 50% of the rear edge allowing for more than sufficient airflow. The display lid is well secured with hinges that appear to be larger than what weve seen in other gaming laptops. And in this case, a larger stem is better. A closer look at the Toshiba XG4 SSD shows that its mounted underneath a heatsink. SSD controllers are known to get a little warm under continuous load and SSD heatsinks are becoming more common with NVMe drives. Its a nice touch to have desktop-like features on gaming laptops. All accessible components are properly labelled for those unfamiliar with laptop innards. The RAM modules total up to 32 GB on this particular SKU and the modules are Micron OEM units. The HDD caddy has the drive PCB facing outwards, however, upon closer inspection we dont see any active or passive components that would be vulnerable. The main battery connector sits right beside the HDD which seems a bit odd but well take it. The HDD caddy features a bit of insulation on the underside which makes contact with the bottom hatch to dampen shocks. As for the audio setup, we have four drivers placed in pairs on either side with all four of them facing the front. And each such speaker module has a little insulating rubber ring at its mounting point which is a nice touch. As for the audio performance, we werent exactly impressed. Well admit that It is remarkably loud. We then come to the battery which takes up a considerable chunk of the chassis space. Its rated for 8333 mAh but the draw is set to 11.4 volts which results in the 99 Whr rating. However, most laptops have much higher draw resulting in a lower Whr rating. Ideally, you should skip the Whr rating since weve started to see manufacturers rating batteries at lower draws than actual. At a glance, the overall design seems to be above average. Weve seen better VRM circuitry on ASUS laptops but Alienware comes a close second. Also, the MXM module allows for easy upgrades should you want more. However, like most laptops, we dont prefer a unified heat sink assembly for the GPU and the CPU as is seen here. Also, there appears to be enough space on the left edge in the above image to include an SD card reader as a value addition. Overall, the Alienware 14 R3 is one of the best built gaming laptops weve come across with the cooling assembly being the obvious oversight. Keyboard and Touchpad The touchpad on the Alienware 15 R3 has a nice matte finish and occupies a pretty large space. Moreover, theyve included dedicated buttons for left/right click. The surface texture is such that even sweaty fingers dont experience that increased cohesion making it easy to use at all times. The keyboard, on the other hand, feels more familiar to a normal full-sized desktop keyboard. It could be perhaps due to the concave nature of the keycaps. Its definitely easier to get your bearing and wed like to believe that it reduces accidental key presses since you are better aware of a keys centre much like a normal keyboard. Moreover, the additional macro keys on the left are a welcome addition. These are not as commonly found on gaming laptops. I/O ports The Alienware 15 R3 has a good complement of ports along with vents on each side of the laptop. The right-hand side has just one USB 3.0 port while the left-hand side has two USB 3.0 ports of which one is a Type-C port. This port does not implement USB 3.1 specifications. Aside from the two USB ports, there exist the audio jacks for the speaker and the microphone along with the Noble socket. The remaining ports have been moved to the rear. This allows for the Alienware 15 R3 to have more ports than most gaming laptops. The rear has an Ethernet port which is like the Wi-Fi module, based off of Killers technology. Then we have a Mini-DP port, an HDMI 2.0 port, Type-C thunderbolt port, an Alienware Graphics Amplifier port and the power input. The inclusion of the Noble lock in most Dell laptops seems to be a trend thats being championed by Dell while most of the other manufacturers are still using Kensington locks. The two are not compatible with each other and the Noble allows for a flatter profile. This is the primary reason why Noble is preferred over Kensington locks. They both serve as a hinderance but a well-prepared crook can hardly be deterred. Display The 4K panel on the Alienware 15 R3 unit that we received is a SHARP LQ156D1JW06 which is a pretty new panel. Dells been using this one since the Alienware 15 R2 so we know little about it. Viewing angles are 88 degrees along all angles and the panel is an IGZO TN panel that has support for NVIDIA G-sync (120 Hz). The sub-pixel arrangement is RGB vertical stripes and the surface as a matte anti-glare hard coating. Typical response time though, isnt encouraging at 25 ms. The luminance level is around 330-350 cd/m3 with a typical contrast ratio of 1000:1. Moving on to the webcam, we see that the Alienware 15 R3 features Tobii Eye tracking with support for Tobii Aware. Most of us bespectacled folk dont find Tobii to be that effective but for everyone else, its a fun feature to play with. The webcam itself isnt any better than most of the competition but we are getting Windows Hello support, so thats there. The display lid doesnt go far back. At its widest, the panel sits about 110-115 degrees with the body which is lower than some of the other competing brands. Most of which extend up to 140 degrees such as the Acer Nitro 5 series. The sides of the panel , as well as the tiny Alienware Logo on the rear, re part of the many lighting zones on the Alienware 15 R3 which can be customised through the software. The panel rear has a basic support structure to add rigidity to the lid. Wed like to say the IGZO panel on the Alienware 15 R3 is at par with most of the competition. However, compared to some of the other Dell laptops, we noticed slightly washed out colours. This is because the higher refresh-rate TN panel isnt as great as the IPS panels that are commonly seen. There are Alienware 15 R3 SKUs with 60 Hz IPS panels which will have better colours as compared to this one but when it comes to fast-paced FPS games, wed pick a TN panel over an average IPS panel any day. Performance The Alienware 15 R3 unit has two power adapter choices, the lower 180 W is what we were sent and we requested for the 240 W adapter to figure out exactly what performance metrics were affected by the power difference. And as youll see from the figures, the difference is huge. We started off with the standard set of benchmarks involving 3DMark and PCMark8. And we ran a couple of gaming benchmarks as well. Needless to say, the figures below speak for themselves. You should pick the 240 W adapter as default, the 180 W basically keeps you from getting the most of what the Alienware 15 R3 can deliver. Aside from the SSD, every other benchmark that involves the CPU and the GPU exhibit a massive performance difference. Gaming is the most affected as weve seen FPS drops from anywhere between 20 to 30 in popular AAA titles. The GPU simply shifts to a lower power profile, thus, throttling itself and resulting in lower performance. CPU related performance, on the other hand, doesnt suffer as much as the GPU. So wed like to reiterate that you should not get the 180 W adapter in any case. Storage The SSD in the Alienware 15 R3 is a Toshiba OEM drive, namely the Toshiba XG4 (THNSN51T02DUK). Specwise, its an NVMe SSD with sequential read speeds of 1,500 MBps and write speeds of 980 MBps. You might see lower write speeds in the Anvil screenshot, this is attributed to the fact that the default drivers present on the Alienwares recovery OS arent proper. For starters, the controller mode seems to be set to RAID by default. It needs to be AHCI or NVMe if your laptop has the option, however, in this case it will have to be AHCI. And since the included drivers are faulty, you need to get the OCZ NVMe drivers from here. Those will get your speeds up to at least 750 MBps. The read speeds are just fine for the drive, its just the write speeds that seem to be below par. So if you dont want to go through the procedure, then youll be stuck with the low write speeds till Dell issues a fix or you get the OCZ NVMe driver. SD Card Reader The Alienware 15 R3 does not have an SD card reader. If we go back to the chassis images, we can see that the right-hand side of the body does have space for including an SD card reader. It would have necessitated the removal or the M.2 slot next to the USB port. Since that port remains unused in this particular SKU, this could have been done. Wi-Fi The Alienware 15 R3 uses Killer Networks 1535 for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth which is a dual band 802.11ac adapter with a peak transfer rate of 867 Mbps on the ac band. The Killer 1535 also has full MU-MIMO support making it all the more favourable for latency sensitive gaming scenarios. In our throughput tests, we managed to get 630 Mbps on the throughput which works out to about 76 MBps in our real world transfer tests. In addition to this, you have the Killer software suite which has its own QoS algorithms that allows for improved latencies. Killer Network Manager can be switched between Game Mode and Max Throughput Mode based on your current task. Verdict The Alienware 15 R3 packs in an NVIDIA GTX 1070 along with an Intel Core i7 6700HQ. Although, this isnt the retail unit, it is pretty close in terms of performance. Alienware has certainly improved the build quality of the gaming laptops with added rigidity and ease of access for customisation. The lid doesnt extend as far back as most other gaming laptops and you dont get an SD card reader. Performance wise, wed like to mention that you should be getting a 240 W power adapter with the unit should you decide to get one. The 180 W adapter does not do any justice to the performance capabilities of this machine. Most laptops with a GTX 1070 cost around 1.7-1.8 lakhs. Since what weve received isnt the actual retail unit, we cant comment on the price using this particular configuration. However, if we are to look at the prices mentioned on Dells website then the Alienware 15 R3 does turn out to be more expensive than the likes of the MSI GE73VR and HP Omen W 250TX. However, these laptops dont quite have the same build quality as the Alienware 15 R3 so youre getting your moneys worth in that aspect. OnePlus 5T will offer major redesign in the form of bezel-less design and display supporting new 18:9 aspect ratio. OnePlus 5 might be discontinued post launch of OnePlus 5T. Update: OnePlus has confirmed to GSMArena that the invite that spread the word about the OnePlus 5 launching on November 5 is "not a genuine invite." OnePlus 5T, the updated variant of the OnePlus 5 will launch on November 5. The company has started sending out a media invitation for an event in China where it is expected to introduce the OnePlus 5 successor. The invite shows the outline of a smartphone with 'T' mark, further confirming it would be the OnePlus 5T. The OnePlus 5T has been part of major leaks in the last two weeks and it is expected to be the first device from the Chinese vendor to feature a new bezel-less design. The smartphone had leaked in the form of renders last week, revealing that it will look similar to the Galaxy S8 in terms of design. The handset is expected to sport a 6-inch display with a Full HD+ resolution of 2160 x 1080 pixels. The resolution translates to an 18:9 aspect ratio, the new norm among smartphones launching this year. Source: GSMArena The only major change between OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 5T is expected to come in the form of redesign with specifications remaining almost the same. With Qualcomm not planning to update its Snapdragon 835 chipset this year, the new OnePlus 5T is expected to use the same chipset also found on the existing OnePlus 5. It is likely to launch with an option for either 6GB or 8GB RAM and either 64GB or 128GB internal storage. However, OnePlus 5T might see upgrades in the camera department and offer enhanced battery life. There is no clarity on the complete hardware specifications of the smartphone just yet, but now that the launch date has been revealed, the smartphone is likely to show up on different benchmarking platforms. Previous reports suggested that OnePlus cancelled its plans to launch the OnePlus 5T and pushed up the OnePlus 6 launch in order to stay competitive with other premium smartphones. OnePlus 5 has gone out of stock in most markets globally further indicating that the smartphone might be discontinued soon after the launch of the OnePlus 5T. OnePlus continues to maintain the lead in the premium smartphone segment with its latest flagship smartphone. OnePlus 5 offers commendable hardware for its price, but its design feels dated in front of competition like Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 and other premium devices from Samsung and LG. Vodafone is offering Rs 100 off on the recharge and consumers will get 90GB 4G data over a period of six months. Vodafone RED customers will receive an additional 5GB data per month. After Jio announced its plans for the Diwali, Vodafone has followed suit and has announced a new data plan priced at Rs 499 for its Vodafone RED postpaid customers. Only postpaid users are eligible for the recharge and Vodafone is also offering a Rs 100 discount on it, which brings down the effective price of the plan to Rs 399. After subscribing to the Rs 499 plan, subscribers will get 90GB of 4G data with unlimited calling for six months. The 90GB data is distributed across a period of six months, with 15GB of data allowance per month. An additional 5GB of data is also included as "Vodafone WiFi", which consumers can use at Vodafone WiFi hotspots. The Rs 499 RED postpaid plan is confirmed for Vodafone's Delhi NCR region but could vary for other circles. Apart from the Rs 499 plan, Vodafone is also offering various RED plans ranging from Rs 399 to Rs 2,999 to suit the needs of their users. The Rs 499 plan by Vodafone comes after Jio announced its special Diwali Dhan Dhana Dhan offer which is priced at Rs 399. Jio is offering 100 percent cashback on the plan in the form of 8 vouchers. Each voucher is worth Rs 50 and can be redeemed on Jio stores, MyJio app, Jio.com, Reliance Digital stores, Jios partner retailers, and through services like PayTM, Amazon Pay, JioMoney, PhonePe and Mobikwik. Vodafone and Idea are also rumoured to be working on their own 4G-enabled low cost smartphone to rival the JioPhone. They are reportedly in talks with Lava and Karbonn to manufacture the device. Airtel has also recently announced their Karbonn A40 Indian smartphone in partnership with Karbonn Mobiles at a price of Rs 1,399. As opposed to the JioPhone, the Karbonn A40 Indian is a 4G enabled smartphone running on Android Nougat. You can learn more about the Karbonn A40 Indian mobile phone here. Hutchison China MediTech - commonly known as Chi-Med - announced on Tuesday that both it and AstraZeneca presented preliminary safety and clinical activity data of savolitinib when given in combination with either Tagrisso (osimertinib) or Iressa (gefitinib) in two Phase Ib/II proof-of-concept trials conducted in patients with epidermal growth factor receptor mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer with MET-amplification, who had progressed following first-line treatment with an EGFR inhibitor. The AIM-traded firm said that In both trials, the addition of savolitinib - 600mg, once daily - an investigational selective inhibitor of mesenchymal epithelial transition factor receptor tyrosine kinase, to Tagrisso - 80mg, once daily - or Iressa - 250mg, once daily - demonstrated preliminary anti-tumor activity. It said the data was shared in two oral presentations at the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer 18th World Conference on Lung Cancer in Yokohama, Japan. Secondary resistance mechanisms often emerge during treatment with mutation-targeted medicines, leading to disease progression, said Dr Myung-Ju Ahn of the department of hematology and oncology at the Samsung Medical Centre in Seoul. The data presented at WCLC demonstrate the potential of utilizing savolitinib in c-MET-driven lung cancers to address resistance challenges. Susan Galbraith, head of oncology at AstraZeneca Research and Early Development, said her company was committed to developing innovative medicines to overcome the key drivers of cancer mechanisms of resistance and are strategically focused on developing effective combinations. The latest results for savolitinib in combination with osimertinib and gefitinib support our approach in collaboration with Chi-Med. Ahead of Tate & Lyle 's interim results on 2 November, Credit Suisse updated its forecasts and cut its target price to 710p while reiterating its 'neutral' rating. The Swiss bank said that reduced target price from 780p was due in part to its expectations that the past two years of strong growth in the group's bulk business, and particularly that of US Sweeteners, was likely to level off after achieving a low-single-digit price rise in 2018. While this increase was seen as enough to cover the increased price of corn and keep the unit stable, it would not be enough to stop rising costs from eventually catching up with Tate & Lyle. Analysts pointed out that Tate and Lyle's sucralose business, known for its Splenda brand, had a more stable looking future "for now", but as production plants were already operating at capacity this shot down any notions of growth as the division remained increasingly vulnerable to Chinese pricing. This all left the food starches division, which accounted for 45% of group profits, as the giant's main source of growth, but the analysts noted even its volumes had begun to disappoint. "With all this, it is hard to see much beyond a low single-digit organic EPS story going forward. We have 3-4% average EPS growth per annum 2017-2022," the research note read. Allied to disappointment that the dividend has only been kept flat for two years and the analysts said: "all this seems to leave T&L at a bit of an impasse". Accepting that the shares look a little cheaper than peers, they suggested the long-term earnings story "would seem to need more portfolio changes," from mergers and acquisitions. Dynamics and geo-politics On October 3, the mainstream communist party, CPN-UML, and the main faction of combative communists, Maoist Centre, forged an electoral alliance. French aeronautical firm Airbus agreed to pick up a majority stake in Bombardier 's C-Series jet project, just weeks after the US government announced it would impose a 300% import tariff on the plane after receiving a complaint from Chicago-based competitor Boeing . Michael Ryan, Bombardier's director in Northern Ireland, said the deal was "great news" for the firm's Belfast operation which employed more than 4,000 people and had been put at significant risk as a result of the spat with Boeing. On Tuesday, business secretary Greg Clark said he welcomed the deal with Airbus, stating that Downing Street would continue to work closely with both groups to protect the UK's interests. "There is some way to go before the deal is completed and our number-one priority throughout will be the workforce in Northern Ireland," Clark said, adding that he would also continue to work alongside the Canadian government to bring the costly trade dispute between Boeing and Bombardier to end. According to a joint press release from both firms, the deal would see Airbus take a 50.01% stake in the project to "tremendously" boost sales and the value of the programme. The agreement also gave Airbus the right to purchase total control of the C-Series project in 2023. Davy Thompson, of trade union Unite, said the deal was a "welcome development". "My understanding of the deal, and what it means for Belfast, is the supply chain still seems to be what it is today, which would mean Belfast is integral to the overall process," he said. Thompson added that while "concerns" over non-C-Series related contracts at Bombardier remained, the Airbus deal would "allow for more orders to be placed", aiding employment across the site in the long-term. Airbus chief executive Tom Enders said the discussions "started basically in August" and were "not motivated by anything competitors were doing." "It was motivated by the sheer recognition that the stars were all aligned this time," Enders added. However, Boeing said the agreement looked" like a questionable deal between two heavily state-subsidized competitors to skirt the recent findings of the US government." "Our position remains that everyone should play by the same rules for free and fair trade to work," it added. The deal, which remained subject to regulatory approval, was set to close in mid-2018. As of 0845 BST, Bombardier shares were up 1.29% to CAD 2.36 each, while Airbus had moved ahead 2.91% to 79.31 per share. Video-streaming group Netflix said it was "on track" to top $11bn worth of sales in its current financial year as the firm boosted its revenue 30% over the three months leading to 30 September. Netflix picked up 4.45m new subscribers in its third quarter, well ahead of analyst expectations of 3.69m, bringing earnings to a total of $273m throughout the quarter, as opposed to the $164m over the same time period a year earlier. The Californian group said that while it had "a good head start" its job was to improve the company as rapidly as possible in order "stay ahead of the competition in decades to come". Netflix announced that as part of its "improvement" programme it had planned to spend as much as $8bn on new serialised programmes and films in 2018, an increase on the almost $6bn spent in its current trading year that had left analysts cautiously optimistic already. While Netflix dipped into its cash reserves in the third quarter to cover operating activities, it spent just $420m compared to $535m outgoing it recorded in the previous quarter. Earlier this October, Netflix announced it would be raising prices on both its standard and premium subscription services. The changes, which were set to go into effect later in the year, would see the monthly cost of its most popular plan jump just $1 a month from $9.99 to $10.99. "It's really about slow and steady. We've been in no hurry," said David Wells, Netflix's chief financial officer when asked about the timing for the price hike. "Many investors have sort of criticized us in the past for being under-priced." As of 0925 BST, Netflix shares had gained 1.60% in after-hours trading to $202.68 each. AstraZeneca and its global biologics research and development arm MedImmune announced on Tuesday that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted a supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) for Imfinzi (durvalumab), for the treatment of patients with locally advanced (Stage III) unresectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose disease has not progressed following platinum-based chemoradiation therapy. The FTSE 100 drugmaker said the FDA has granted Imfinzi priority review status. It said the FDAs sBLA submission acceptance was an important milestone for Imfinzi in a disease state where patients needed better treatment options and outcomes. Currently, AstraZeneca said the standard of care for patients with the earlier stage of lung disease was active monitoring following concurrent chemoradiation. The sBLA submission is based on positive progression-free survival (PFS) data from the Phase III PACIFIC trial, AstraZenecas board explained. The trial continues to evaluate overall survival (OS), its other primary endpoint. AstraZeneca added that on 28 September, the US NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology were updated to include Imfinzi for the treatment of patients with locally-advanced unresectable NSCLC with no disease progression after two or more cycles of definitive chemoradiation, based on the data from the PACIFIC Phase III trial. That indication was not yet FDA-approved, however. Theresa Mays trip to Brussels on Monday for a working dinner with Jean-Claude Juncker did not appear to yield any specific results, but both the UK PM and EU Commission president vowed to accelerate Brexit negotiations. The PM travelled to Belgium for an impromptu meeting with Juncker and other EU officials in order to address the impasse in the talks which has developed in recent weeks. A joint statement released on behalf of both May and Juncker said: The prime minister and the president of the European commission reviewed the progress made in the article 50 negotiations so far and agreed that these efforts should accelerate over the months to come. "The working dinner took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere. It was not revealed what exactly was discussed by the two politicians, but negotiations had stalled on a disagreement in relation to the UKs financial obligations to the bloc after its departure. Some reports emerged of growing frustration in Whitehall, with senior figures close to the talks telling the Times that the EU was "deliberately stalling" in order to maximise pressure on May over the divorce bill. Last week May suggested that Britain could still leave the EU without an exit agreement, something which has caused consternation from some both outside and within her own party. Juncker and the blocs chief negotiator Michel Barnier have both said that there has not been sufficient progress for talks to begin on the major issue of trade between the two entities post-Brexit. On Thursday all EU leaders will meet at a summit to hear Barnier's report on the progress of talks. Prior to her trip to the Belgian capital, May telephoned French President Emmanuel Macron and Irish PM Leo Varadkar to discuss Brexit and other issues, her office said. Theresa May's hopes of breaking a deadlock in Brexit talks appeared to be given a boost after she and Jean-Claude Juncker agreed to "accelerate" negotiations. The Prime Minister flew out to dinner with Mr Juncker, the President of the European Commission, after a Brexit charm offensive with other EU leaders ahead of a summit on Thursday. - Telegraph Theresa Mays last-ditch attempt to persuade European leaders to open talks on a transition period look doomed to fail as Downing Street appeared to rule out fresh concessions on the UKs divorce bill and Brussels hardened its approach days away from a crunch summit. Calls to the French president, Emmanuel Macron, and the Irish taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, along with a 90-minute dinner in Brussels with the European commission president, Jean-Claude Juncker, and his chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, failed to move the dial in the prime ministers favour, with senior diplomats insisting the UK had not done enough. - Guardian European leaders are deliberately stalling on a deal that would protect the rights of EU and British citizens after Brexit to wring further financial concessions from Theresa May, government sources claimed last night. Senior figures close to negotiations said that an agreement to safeguard the rights of three million EU citizens living in the UK was almost done. - The Times Urgent progress is needed on a Brexit transition period to prevent City firms implementing contingency plans that could put up to 75,000 UK financial services sector jobs at risk, a leading industry lobby group has warned. In a plea to negotiators ahead of the n meeting later this week, TheCityUK also said that the stakes are high for the remaining 27 EU nations, where jobs and inward investment will be at risk if a two-year transition period cannot be agreed quickly. - Guardian Spain has signalled a hardening line over Catalonia by jailing the leaders of two of the largest separatist organisations in a move seen as taking Madrid closer to imposing central rule over Catalonia. In the first imprisonment of senior secessionist figures since Catalonias 1 October independence referendum, the court ordered the heads of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and independence group Omnium to be held without bail pending an investigation for alleged sedition. - Guardian/Reuters North Koreas deputy UN ambassador has warned that the situation on the Korean peninsula has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment. Kim In-ryong told the UN general assemblys disarmament committee that North Korea is the only country in the world that has been subjected to such an extreme and direct nuclear threat from the United States since the 1970s and said the country has the right to possess nuclear weapons in self-defence. - Guardian/AP Chinese state oil companies have written to Saudi Aramco offering to buy up to 5 per cent of its shares and bypass its planned stock market float. Petrochina and Sinopec have expressed interest in a direct deal with the Saudi national oil giant, Reuters reported yesterday. - The Times Interserve will report to the stock market as early as tomorrow on the depths of its financial crisis after it emerged that it had brought in restructuring accountants from EY, sending its shares to record lows. The construction company, which also acts as an outsourced caretaker and cleaning contractor, was forced yesterday to issue a statement, albeit a brief one, on the news that EY had been hired at the behest of HSBC and Royal Bank of Scotland, its two main bankers. - The Times World petrol demand will peak within 13 years thanks to the impact of electric cars and more efficient engines, energy experts have predicted. UK-based Wood Mackenzie said it expected the take-up of electric vehicles to cut gasoline demand significantly, particularly beyond 2025 as the battery-powered cars go mainstream. - Guardian Palladium, a silvery metal used in catalytic converters for petrol cars, has become one of the star commodities of the year, hitting $1,000 an ounce for the first time since 2001. The metal, mined primarily in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Russia, has risen 48pc this year, making it the best performing precious metal. - Telegraph A car finance lending binge by Lloyds has left it dangerously exposed to a downturn in the market, experts warn. Britains banks collectively have 24billion of exposure to motor loans, and Lloyds has been the most enthusiastic adopter. - Mail The City watchdog is investigating an American investment bank over claims that senior managers improperly interfered with the work of analysts in its research department, an employment tribunal was told yesterday. Jefferies is facing claims from Milan Radia, one of its former leading analysts, that he was forced to change a report under pressure from a potential client of the bank and that he was asked to attend float pitches, in breach of market rules. - The Times Big four accountancy firm EY has been fined 2.75m for a series of mistakes in the auditing of a tech companys accounts five years ago. EY and one of its partners, Julian Gray, admitted that their conduct fell significantly short of industry standards in relation to the accounts of Tech Data (formerly Computer 2000 Distribution) for the year ending January 2012. - Telegraph European aircraft giant Airbus is buying a majority stake in Bombardiers C Series programme. The two aircraft manufacturers announced the partnership on Monday evening, weeks after Bombardier was hit by a 300% import levy by the United States following a complaint from rival Boeing that the company had dumped its C Series jets at absurdly low prices. - Guardian A major shareholder in Millennium & Copthorne hotels has accused the firms independent directors of settling for a knock-down price for the business after an offer to take it private emerged last week. Fidelity International, which owns just under 3pc of the company, making it its fifth biggest shareholder, was on Monday trying to galvanise support from other minority shareholders in order to convince the companys management to think again about recommending the offer. - Telegraph Airline EasyJet yesterday submitted a bid for some of Alitalias assets. The low-cost carrier revealed its intentions after an earlier announcement by Lufthansa which said it hoped to establish a new Alitalia and that it had also put in an offer for parts of the insolvent airline. - Mail Theresa May will receive a much-needed Brexit boost today as plans are unveiled for a 1bn investment in the West Midlands train network. Dutch transport giant Abellio has placed a bumper order for more than 100 trains as part of a hi-tech upgrade of the franchise, which covers routes in the West Midlands, as well as from London Euston to Crewe, and Liverpool to Birmingham. - Telegraph Companies remain worryingly unprepared for new data protection rules that will impose huge fines on organisations that mishandle the personal data of customers, users, employees and associates, the Institute of Directors has warned. The general data protection regulation is huge in scope. It is an attempt to introduce unified rules across the European Union about how organisations create, capture, store and share personal information for the first time since the 1990s global explosion of digital data. - The Times Netflix netted its best third quarter on record for subscriber growth as it said it will continue to pump more money into its original programming to ward off growing competition in the market. The streaming service added 5.3 million subscribers in the three month period, a 49pc increase from last year and ahead of its guidance for 4.4 million subscribers, thanks to better-than-expected growth in both the US and internationally. - Telegraph Insurance giant Legal & General has agreed to buy pet insurer Buddies with the hope of cashing in on Britain's love for cats and dogs. The FTSE 100 company said it would be purchasing the Northamptonshire-based business, which was set up by husband and wife Marianne Metaxas and Avi Levine in 2000, for an undisclosed sum as part of a wider ambition to expand into the rapidly growing pet insurance space. - Telegraph The investment firm behind the collapsed Monarch airline should help repay the 60m cost of the repatriation of its customers, the transport secretary has told MPs.The Civil Aviation Authority operated more than 500 flights over the past two weeks to return 110,000 Monarch passengers home after the airline went into administration on 2 October. - Guardian Staff at Capita are planning to stage a nine-day strike over pension terms after talks between the company and the union broke down. Union Unite said on Monday that last minute talks with mediation firm Acas had failed, and so staff represented by the union would be walking out between October 28 and November 5. - Telegraph The withdrawal of the old 1 coin was mired in chaos on Monday after it emerged that thousands of parking ticket machines and shops have yet to fall into line with the new rules. Car parks serving as many as one million motorists a day have defied the Royal Mint's deadline for updating their machines to accept the new coin. - Telegraph Lidl is creating 500 new jobs as it gears up to open its largest UK distribution centre in Peterborough as part of its plans to invest 1.45bn in the country over the next two years. The German discounter, which recently overtook Waitrose to become the UK's seventh biggest grocer, said that the new site would be its 15th distribution centre and will supply groceries and non-food items to the nearby area. - Telegraph New peerages will have a 15-year time limit under a plan to shrink the House of Lords. The Lords has almost 800 members, making it the second largest legislative chamber in the world after the National Peoples Congress of China, but pressure has grown on the government to reduce its size. - The Times EC gives nod to transfer NOC Chief Khadka to Supplies Ministry The Election Commission (EC) has decided to give go-ahead to transfer Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) Chief Gopal Bahadur Khadka as per the demand of Supplies Ministry. On 13 October, International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, council member Michael Sun for public safety, officially commissioned a Tahmo weather station in Johannesburg, South Africa. The weather station is used for the forecasting of floods and the management of the water demand. Council member Sun (right) cut the ribbon of the new station in the township on Alexandra, together with Marieke de Groen of AquaLinks who represents Tahmo in South Africa. Tahmo weather station in township Alexandra, Johannesburg. Network of African weather stations Trans-African Hydro-Meteorological Observatory (Tahmo) is a Dutch-based organisation that is specialised in developing a robust network of 20,000 automatic weather stations (AWS) across Africa. All Tahmo installed stations deliver data every hour to the sponsor of the station and to the South African Weather Service. The data will be made freely available for research and for other good causes. The first Tahmo station in South Africa was opened on top of the Maths Centre in Johannesburg on 14 July. For proof-of-the-concept in Johannes, Tahmo hopes to have an additional ten stations operational soon. Traditional weather parameters The Tahmo weather station - produced by the Meter Group (formerly Decagon) - is resilient, requires little maintenance, and is cost effective. It measures traditional weather parameters, like air temperature, relative humidity, or solar radiation. Tahmo already has stations operational in Kenya, Ghana, Benin, Togo, Mali, Burkina Faso, Uganda, Ethiopia, Malawi (in order of implementation). In August, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tahmo, to develop a network of Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) across the country. Read also on this website Tahmo and MetaMeta selected to further develop their solutions on rainwater prediction and road water harvesting, 23 February 2015 Stockholm Water Week 2014: Seven Dutch winners in cutting edge technology challenge on water and food, 3 September 2014 Expertise: Smart information solutions Country: South Africa More information Aqualinks Johannesburg, South Africa +27 82 536 3068 www.aqualinks.co.za TAHMO Delft, the Netherlands www.tahmo.org Short movie explaining the Tahmo initiative for 20,000 automatic weather stations in Africa. IBM on Tuesday launched LinuxOne Emperor II, the second generation of its open source mainframe computer system, at the annual Open Source Summit in Los Angeles. The new model has a layer of security and privacy not seen in a Linux-based platform before, the company said. We saw in our success stories for Emperor that security was a recurring theme attracting new customers to the platform, noted Mark Figley, director of LinuxOne Offerings at IBM. Later, our experience with blockchain and specifically being the platform for IBMs premier blockchain offering because of our security capabilities reinforced that lesson for us, he told LinuxInsider. LinuxOne Emperor II includes a proprietary Secure Service Container technology that protects data against external threats, as well as internal threats from users with elevated credentials or from hackers who gain access to an insiders credentials. The system is the most advanced enterprise Linux platform anywhere, IBM said. It features the fastest microprocessor in the industry and a unique I/O architecture with up to 64 cores dedicated to I/O processing. LinuxOne is a highly engineered platform with unique security, data privacy and regulatory compliance capabilities, combined with a design optimized for data serving and transaction processing at extreme scale, said Ross Mauri, general manager of IBM LinuxOne. Tough Year More than 4 billion data records were lost or stolen in 2016 a 556 percent jump from the year before, IBM noted. Of the 9 billion records breached over the past year, only 4 percent previously were encrypted, the company said. LinuxOne Emperor IIs vertically integrated, shared everything design allows it to support a 17-TB MongoDB Enterprise instance in a single system, with up to 10 times better read/write latency than an x86 based implementation, according to IBM. That gives applications faster, more secure access to data, while allowing greater scale. The system also provides integrated, pause-less garbage collection, which allows Java applications to run concurrently. It provides constant transaction processing 2.6 times that of x86-based systems, which need to stop workloads to conduct garbage collection. Further, the new system provides certified Docker EE, with integrated management and scale tested with up to 2 million containers. As a service provider, LinuxOne allows us to set up a complete IT infrastructure capable of supporting millions of users in the blink of an eye for clients like the Plastic Bank, said Ron Argent, CEO of the Cognition Foundry. That cuts the risk of outside hacking threats due to separate user environments running on the system. IBM is offering beta participation for both developers and clients, working in an observation or hands-on mode. The Open Source Factor Something being open source does not make it less secure because it is open source, but it is true that many new-generation open source projects focus on capability enablement before they focus on high-security assurance, especially in the early days of a project, noted IBMs Figley. Security isnt the only thing often out of focus for an open source project in its early stages, he pointed out. Other enterprise quality of service issues such as scalability, reliability and consistency are often focused on later in the life of an open source project as it matures, Figley said. We believe that LinuxOne can accelerate the rate of adoption of new open source technologies, and allow companies to do so safely, because the LinuxOne platform can help solve many of the security, scalability, reliability and consistency issues at the system level while the software layer continues to mature, he explained. Certainly with the rise of Linux and a whole host of other open source technologies in very wide use in enterprises handling very critical apps and data, there isnt any general concern about open source and security, observed Gary Chen, research manager, software defined compute, at IDC. You really have to look at vendors and any software project, open or closed, individually, he told LinuxInsider. Some have very good security initiatives and prioritize security, and some dont. Being open or closed has nothing to do with that, and you can find good and bad examples in each camp. Over the Shoulder The Secure Service Container technology performs a couple of tasks that system administrators could do on their own but they tend not to on a regular basis, said Paul Teich, principal analyst at Tirias Research. First, it limits access to those authorized in secure service LPAR, (instead of allowing SSH credentials) he told LinuxInsider. Second, it disables direct memory access to secure containers. As for IBMs LinuxOne Emperor II security claims, Jeff Williams, chief technology officer at Contrast Security, dashed a bit of cold water on them. For application security, the Emperor II has no clothes, he told LinuxInsider. From what I understand here, Emperor II is container security. I believe it has enhanced access control and possibly encryption capabilities, but those are irrelevant at the application layer. The belief that you can drop a vulnerable application into a secure container and everything will be OK, Williams said, is one of the most pernicious and dangerous ideas in security. The correct approach would be to secure the application itself, either using IAST to prevent vulnerabilities during the development phase, or using application runtime protection with RASP to prevent exploits. Most retailers dont have the in-store technology to view customer information across various touchpoints, suggests a new study from Kibo, Technologies That Are Changing How We Think of Brick and Mortar. Fifty-eight percent of retailers who participated in the study, released last Thursday, acknowledged they did not have that capability. The study was based on questions posed to 115 retail executives during an on-site benchmarking session at the Future Stores 2017 conference. Based on its findings, it appears that a majority of businesses currently are unable to automate shoppers information on mobile devices or kiosks while they are present in their stores. In order to provide a seamless omnichannel experience to consumers, retailers must have a complete picture of all consumer activities, regardless of buying channel, said Kibo CMO Tushar Patel. Nothing is more frustrating to a consumer than a retailer who has blind spots [about] their activity, he told the E-Commerce Times. Coming Around Many retailers have been using a wide range of technologies to capture more personalized data from their customers, according to the report. Eighty-two percent of participants said they used mobile devices and tablets, 76 percent used kiosks, 41 percent used mobile point-of-sale devices, 26 percent used Bluetooth low-energy beacon technologies, and 19 percent used near-field communication. However, 64 percent of retailers felt they were only somewhat effective at capturing in-store data on customer preferences. Only 42 percent of retailers said they had the in-store technologies to view customer data across a variety of touchpoints. Personalization Plans Another key in-store technology retailers have been adopting is personalization. Fifty-two percent of participating retailers planned to invest in personalization technologies within the next 12 months or already had begun to implement the strategy. However, 22 percent of retailers said they had not begun to personalize and were not sure if they had the capacity to do so. Fulfillment Choices Offering more ways to get products into customers hands has proved daunting for many smaller retailers. Major retailers including Walmart, CVS, Sears and Target offer ship from store and in-store pickup of online orders and some have done so for years. However, more than 40 percent of retailers who participated in the Kibo study said their technologies wouldnt support those services, or that they were not ready to implement them. Retail Pressure With the exception of Amazon and Walmart, many retail stocks recently have been under severe pressure, noted Cindy Zhou, principal analyst at Constellation Research, after the SPDR S&P Retail ETF fell to its worst week since last December. Thirty-seven percent of retailers who responded to a poll she conducted during Microsofts Modern Customer event indicated their biggest challenge was delivering a consistent digital-to-physical multichannel experience to customers. Customers are using their multitude of mobile devices to research and shop for products reading reviews, asking their friends on social before making a decision, Zhou told the E-Commerce Times. The mobile shopping experience is critical, she said, but few retailers have been able to deliver a mobile app that makes it easy for customers to see availability, shop and check out items with ease. One major retailer that has undertaken a digital transformation project, Zhou said, is a company that has a retail brick-and-mortar presence, an e-commerce website and a catalog division but each is part of a separate system, and they cant communicate with each other. Personalizing in-store technology to see customer data is not as easy as one might think, observed Nikki Baird, managing partner at RSR Research. Yes there are definitely gaps in terms of needing mobile devices, she told the E-Commerce Times, but at the same time there are a lot of concerns about giving frontline employees access to personalized customer data. In this age of tech industry consolidation, one has to wonder what will happen with the pace of innovation as a few large companies begin to dominate. In personal computers, the WinTel (Microsoft Windows and Intel) marriage continues to control the technology, while Dell, HP and Lenovo control the devices. Similarly, in smartphones, Apple and Samsung, which both design their own chips and devices, dominate the market, especially in North America. It is natural for market leaders to emerge as technologies and markets mature. However, that maturity often is accompanied by a change in the strategy of key players. Theres a shift from market enablement that is, seeking to share technologies and enable competition to market control. Key players continue to innovate, but they seek to limit access to their technology as a means of controlling the market or the pace of innovation. Intel and Microsoft once sought to not only innovate, but also to enable any original equipment manufacturer to build PCs and compete with Big Blue (IBM). That changed as the two companies rose to dominance, often squeezing out competitors and leaving startups with one hope: being acquired by a market leader. So, what happens to innovation and market enablement as smartphones and other segments also mature? Enabling an Ecosystem While the acquisition strategy of startups is nothing new, I do not believe this should be the strategic goal of innovators. It is still possible to outmaneuver the industry powerhouses, as long as a strategy includes both innovating and enabling the market. Despite the PC example, I am encouraged by many of the current startups and other industry leaders not only to innovate through huge investments in research and development, but also to enable the market. For example, at Huaweis recent Connect conference in Shanghai, the company indicated that it was targeting just 1 percent of the cloud ecosystem that it hoped to enable through its partners, and it was pleased with that figure. Similarly, by some estimates the average smartphone leverages more than 200,000 active patents from more than 30,000 patent holders, the largest being a handful of companies like Qualcomm, Ericsson, and Nokia, all of which have been willing to license their patents to all smartphone OEMs. While not all of those patents would be considered essential for the construction of the smartphones, its clear that the experience of using a mid-range phone like the Chinese Oppo R11 or even the new Apple iPhone X would not be the same without those patents. Qualcomm alone spends US$5.15 billion in annual R&D, and it grants access to its entire pool of Qualcomm intellectual property, the largest in the industry. Additionally, the concept of enabling an ecosystem has allowed a small processor design company, ARM, to rise to the top of the semiconductors largest ecosystem, which ships more processors than all the PCs and enterprise servers combined and is still growing. Market Influencers We will see new companies emerge through new areas of innovation, such as connected devices (Internet of Things, or IoT), augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR), autonomous vehicles and intelligent solutions (machine learning, or ML), deep learning (DL) and artificial intelligence (AI). Many of these new areas have become the focus of acquisitions and consolidation by industry powerhouses, but the culture of the organization ultimately will determine whether innovation continues to be accompanied by ecosystem enablement. In PCs, Microsoft once again has been aiming to reinvigorate innovation and ecosystem enablement by building PCs based on ARM-based processors, beginning with Qualcomms Snapdragon mobile processor theyre two of the previously mentioned industry enablers. Microsoft also has been contributing code to the open source community through GitHub. Likewise, the industry has been going through a major shift as it approaches 5G, which will entail not only new mobile devices, but also broader connectivity of all electronics. Two of the companies most heavily investing in 5G technology are Huawei and Qualcomm, market enablers. While it is natural for mature companies to shift from being market enablers to market controllers, in this age of startups vs. powerhouses (or Davids vs. Goliaths), its growing clear that those that both innovate and enable are likely not only to influence the market, but also to grow their respective market segments. By Dan Nosowitz Dicamba has been in use as a local pesticide for decades, but its only recently that Monsanto has taken to using it in big, new ways. The past two years have seen the rollout of dicamba-resistant seed for soybean and cotton, as well as a new way to apply it: broad spraying. But dicamba, it turns out, has a tendency to vaporize and drift with the wind, and it if lands on a farm that hasnt planted Monsantos dicamba-resistant seed, the pesticide will stunt and kill crops in a very distinctive way, with a telltale cupping and curling of leaves, as seen above. Drift from dicamba has affected millions of acres of crops, prompting multiple states to issue temporary bans on the pesticide. Farmers have been taking sides, either pro-dicamba or anti, and at least one farmer has been killed in a dispute over its use. Following reports that dicamba has drifted into forestland and is harming trees, too, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took action. According to a statement from the EPA, manufacturers selling dicamba pesticidethats Monsanto and German agrochemical firm BASF, right nowwill have to take new steps to attempt to avoid drift. Dicamba will now be listed as a restricted-use pesticide. Heres what that means, in the EPAs words: RUPs are not available for purchase or use by the general public. RUPs have the potential to cause unreasonable adverse effects to the environment and injury to applicators or bystanders without added restrictions. The Restricted Use classification restricts a product, or its uses, to use by a certified applicator or someone under the certified applicators direct supervision. In the case of dicamba, the new label will limit the times when dicamba can be applied (for example, when its windy), and will restrict application to only those who have undergone special training. Placement on the RUP list isnt a ban. Its incredibly far from a ban; the second-most popular pesticide in the U.S., atrazine, is on that list. In a statement to Reuters, a Monsanto vice president noted that the restrictions are not only voluntary but were proposed by Monsanto. The restrictions are in line with what Monsantos party-line defense of dicamba: the pesticide itself is not dangerous when applied correctly. Farmers, for their part, say following the 4,500-word directions is insanely difficult, and lawsuits have alleged that Monsanto encouraged farmers to use older, even more dangerous dicamba products before the newer versions were released. Even with these new rules, theres also the possibility that dicamba is justincredibly dangerous. Some authorities have noted that the restrictions do not address the fact that it vaporizes in the first place; that that is its inherent danger. Denise OBrien, chair of the Pesticide Action Network board, a coalition of groups fighting adverse effects from pesticides, told us this: These new restrictions dont do nearly enough to address the problem of dicamba drift damage. Farmers and others will continue to be hurt by dicamba drift with these weak rules that give the false impression that EPA is doing something to address dicamba drift. A drift-prone herbicide like dicamba should never have been let on to the market in the first place. Monsanto and other corporations have put farmers in this position, but so far they have not been held accountable for the problems caused by their products. Weve reached out to Monsanto for a comment and will update if we hear back. Reposted with permission from our media associate Modern Farmer. Fire at cotton factory guts property worth Rs 1.2 million in Dhading Property worth around Rs 1.4 million was reduced to ashes when a fire broke out at a cotton factory in Dhading on Tuesday. The incident occurred at around 1 pm today. Wildfires have killed at least 39 people in Spain and Portugal since Sunday. Hundreds of fires in both countries are being fanned by winds from Hurricane Ophelia in the north, currently barreling towards Ireland, and encouraged by extremely dry terrain from a scorching hot summer in the region. Sixty-four people died in a wildfire in Portugal in June, and the country has declared a state of emergency in the northern region. We are facing new (weather) conditions due to climate change, Portuguese Interior Minister Constanca Urbano de Sousa told the press, as she also referenced the fires blazing in California. In an era of climate change, such disasters are becoming reality all over the world. UN Urges World Leaders to Heed Climate Risk, Warns of More Severe Disasters https://t.co/e9FBEjtAm1 @Climate_Rescue @beyondzeronews EcoWatch (@EcoWatch) October 17, 2017 As reported by Vox: As with the ongoing wildfires in California, human activity ranging from forest management practices to deliberate ignition are exacerbating the damage from infernos in Europe Meanwhile, the European Environment Agency projected a rise in the length and severity of the fire season, the area at risk and the probability of large fires, as average temperature rises this century. Europes fire season has already grown from July through August to June through October over the past 50 years. For a deeper dive: New York Times, Reuters, AP, Vox, BBC, LA Times. Background: Climate Signals For more climate change and clean energy news, you can follow Climate Nexus on Twitter and Facebook, and sign up for daily Hot News. Immunotherapy for leukemia patients has been nothing short of a miracle. Now scientists hope to use that science and other forms of gene therapy to tackle three of the deadliest forms of cancer: glioblastoma (brain cancer), sarcoma (bone cancer) and ovarian cancer. Three scientists have received $1.3 million in critical funding from the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy (ACGT), the nation's only nonprofit dedicated exclusively to cell and gene therapies for cancer. These new grants will be used to study immunotherapy and virotherapy in the treatment of glioblastoma, sarcoma and ovarian cancer. "We have big hopes for these grants," said John Walter, CEO and president of ACGT. "ACGT was one of the first funders to support Dr. Carl June's work at the University of Pennsylvania in successfully treating leukemia with gene therapy when it was still deemed 'risky' science. The recent FDA approval of the first gene therapy treatment to come out of this research, Kymriah, validates the promise of this science. With these three new clinical investigator grants, we hope to see similar results with immunotherapy and virotherapy in treating hard-to-combat solid tumor cancers." The new grants are: Nori Kasahara, MD, PhD - Virotherapy for Glioblastoma Brain Cancer Co-Leader Viral Oncology Program Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Dr. Kasahara's research focuses on translational application of gene transfer technologies to cancer, transplantation and regenerative medicine. Dr. Kasahara will use his ACGT grant to advance a clinical trial for a virotherapy for glioblastoma. Using a modified retrovirus to deliver chemotherapy directly into cancer cells, these "suicide genes" continue to replicate to prevent recurrence. The work will take the experience in the lab and translate it to a patient clinical trial. Seth Pollack, M.D. - Immunotherapy for Sarcoma Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington Dr. Pollack's research is focused on developing novel immunotherapies for patients with advanced sarcoma, specifically synovial sarcoma (SS) and myxoid/round cell liposarcoma (MRCL). Dr. Pollack's ACGT grant will further his research by using immunotherapy to target this rare form of cancer that grows in connective tissue - cells that support other body tissues such as in bones, muscles, tendons, etc. The initial clinical trial will deploy two different types of genetically engineered T cells to target the cancer and to assess efficacy and safety. Daniel Powell, Jr., PhD -- Immunotherapy for Ovarian Cancer Director of Immunotherapy for Division of Gynecology University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Dr. Powell's research focuses on the development of innovative immunotherapeutic strategies, including adoptive immunotherapy, using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Dr. Powell will used his ACGT grant to enroll nine ovarian cancer patients in a new clinical trial. Immune system killer T cells will be developed outside the body and reinserted to establish an offense against the disease and a defense against recurrence. "ACGT's Clinical Investigator grants allow these scientists to advance their research from the laboratory to the bedside for patients in clinical trials, providing for an opportunity to see these treatments work in actual patients and hopefully save lives," noted Walter. "Our goal at ACGT is to truly make an impact on how cancer is treated through the use of gene and cell therapies so that one day, cancer will be a treatable and manageable disease." ### ACGT has now issued a total of 55 grants, including 19 clinical translation grants and 36 Young Investigator grants totaling more than $28 million. This is particularly exciting given ACGT's commitment to contributing 100 percent of donations directly to research. ACGT-funded work is also attracting increasing attention from the pharmaceutical industry, which is swiftly discovering the potential of cell and gene therapies. About Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy (ACGT) Established in 2001, ACGT is the nation's only non-profit dedicated exclusively to cell and gene therapy treatments for all types of cancer. One hundred percent of contributions go directly to research. Founded by Barbara Netter and her late husband Edward, ACGT was created to conduct and accelerate critically needed innovative research. ACGT is located at 96 Cummings Point Road, Stamford, Connecticut 06902; 203-358-5055. To learn more, visit acgtfoundation.org or join the ACGT community on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube at @acgtfoundation. New York, NY - The American Federation for Aging Research, AFAR--the premier not-for-profit organization supporting biomedical research to advance healthy aging and address age-related diseases--is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2017 AFAR Research Grants for Junior Faculty: Luis Batista, PhD, Assistant Professor, Washington University in St. Louis Peter Douglas, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Sergei Doulatov, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Washington Michael Garratt, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Michigan Vyacheslav Labunskyy, PhD, Assistant Professor, Boston University School of Medicine Darcie Moore, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison Vittorio Sebastiano, PhD, Assistant Professor, Stanford School of Medicine Archana Unnikrishnan, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center Rui Xiao, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Florida Amir Zarrinpar, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of California, San Diego The AFAR Research Grant for Junior Faculty provides an early career investigator with up to $100,000 for one- to two-years to support research focused on aging processes and age-related diseases. Moreover, this grant provides flexible support at a critical juncture in their career when research funding is most difficult to obtain. An AFAR Research Grant for Junior Faculty not only supports a scientist's specific research but also advances their career in the field. "AFAR grants serve as a catalyst to help an investigator obtain subsequent funding, publication, and career advancement We expect these new researchers to be at the forefront of advancing our knowledge of the aging process and our understanding of the diseases of aging," notes Stephanie Lederman, AFAR's Executive Director. AFAR's grant recipients are selected through a rigorous review process. This year, AFAR received 148 letters of intent for the Research Grant for Junior Faculty program, which are first reviewed by a select group of key AFAR Scientific board members and members of AFAR's National Scientific Advisory Council (NSAC). A subset of applicants are invited to submit full applications, which are reviewed by the AFAR Research Grant for Junior Faculty Selection Committee. "The dedicated scientists who review AFAR's grant applications bring a depth of expertise and breadth of scientific knowledge that is unmatched in the field of aging research," says AFAR's Scientific Director, Steven N. Austad, PhD, Director of the NIA Nathan Shock Center of Excellence in the Basic Biology of Aging and Distinguished Professor and Department Chair, Department of Biology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. This year, AFAR is awarding ten Research Grants for Junior Faculty, totaling $800,000 dollars. To date, AFAR has awarded more than $175 million in grants to support more than 4,400 investigators and students at more than 500 leading institutions across the U.S. as well as Ireland, Israel, Italy, and the United Kingdom. AFAR will announce its entire 2017 Biology of Aging grants portfolio in the following months. AFAR's support of solid science in the biology of aging is more critical than ever. While the world's population over 65 years old is growing an unprecedented rate, "AFAR Research Grants for Junior Faculty help create a career pipeline that is essential to advancing better therapies for age-related diseases and discoveries that will help us all live healthier, longer," notes Ms. Lederman. ### About AFAR The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to support and advance healthy aging through biomedical research. Founded in 1981, AFAR has championed the cause and supported the funding of science in healthier aging and age-related medicine. To address the shortage of physicians and researchers dedicated to the science of healthier aging, AFAR funds physicians and scientists probing the fundamental mechanisms of aging, as well as specific diseases associated with aging populations at critical points throughout their careers. AFAR engages the public through webinars and briefings. Learn at http://www.afar.org or follow AFAR.org on Twitter and Facebook. Contact: Fred Yaeger914-525-9198 WASHINGTON, D.C., Oct. 17, 2017 -- AIP Publishing has announced its selection of Michael Keidar, A. James Clark professor of engineering at the School of Engineering and Applied Science at George Washington University, as the winner of the 2017 Ronald C. Davidson Award for Plasma Physics. The annual award is presented in collaboration with the American Physical Society (APS) Division of Plasma Physics, to recognize outstanding plasma physics research by a Physics of Plasmas author. "AIP Publishing and Physics of Plasmas are delighted to announce Michael Keidar as the recipient of the 2017 Ronald C. Davidson Award for Plasmas Physics," said Jason Wilde, chief publishing officer at AIP Publishing. "Dr. Keidar was selected for his article on cold plasma application in cancer therapy and has been invited to speak at the 59th Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics in October. Now in its second year, this award is in honor of the late Ron Davidson, the founding Editor-in-Chief of Physics of Plasmas who served for 25 years. We congratulate Dr. Keidar on receiving the Ronald C. Davison Award." As decided by the Physics of Plasmas Editorial Board, Michael Keidar was selected from among "the most highly cited and top downloaded articles from Physics of Plasmas during the past five years." His paper, "Cold atmospheric plasma in cancer therapy," Phys. Plasmas, 20, 057101 (2013), was co-authored with Alex Shashurin, Olga Volotskova, Mary Ann Stepp, Priya Srinivasan, Anthony Sandler and Barry Trink. Keidar and his colleagues demonstrated progress in the creation of cold plasmas and their applications to cancer therapy procedures. Keidar, however, did not start out with the intention of influencing medicine with his research. "My initial plasma physics interest was associated with plasma propulsion, [the] ability of plasma-based engines to efficiently propel satellites in space," Keidar said. "Professor Isak Beilis introduced me to the physics of vacuum arc discharge." The late Ronald C. Davison's work on rigid-rotor equilibria helped guide Keidar's initial study. "His Physics of Fluids (1976) paper had significant impact on my own approach to this problem," he said. Because atmospheric plasma jets are highly non-equilibrium with ion temperature close to room temperature, Keidar and his team began testing the response of living cells to the plasma treatment. "We were able to see several effects without damage to the tissue and one of these effects was decrease of cells migration," Keidar said. "This triggered our interest as potential way to affect cancer metastasis using a gentle plasma treatment." Keidar was recently acknowledged by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), receiving the AIAA 2017 Engineer of the Year Award. He was recognized for his contributions to the applications of electric propulsion, specifically micro-propulsion of small satellites. He was also awarded AIAA's National Capital Section Engineer of the Year, in May 2016, for his engineering of space propulsion systems using micro-cathode arc thrusters. "I'm deeply humbled by being selected as a recipient of the Davidson Award," Keidar said. "I can only hope that my contribution to plasma physics and specifically to the plasma medicine is worthy of Ron Davidson's great plasma physics legacy." The award, which includes a cash prize of $5,000, will be presented to Michael Keidar Monday, Oct. 23, 2017, during the Physics of Plasmas reception in honor of the invited, tutorial, and review speakers by Bridget D'Amelio, Director of Publishing Development at AIP Publishing. ### About the Ronald C. Davidson Award for Plasma Physics The award is provided by AIP Publishing in honor of Ronald Davidson's exceptional contributions as Editor-in-Chief of Physics of Plasmas for 25 years. The annual award of $5,000 is presented in collaboration with the American Physical Society's Division of Plasma Physics and recognizes outstanding plasma physics research by a Physics of Plasmas author. About AIP Publishing

AIP Publishing is a wholly owned not-for-profit subsidiary of the American Institute of Physics (AIP). AIP Publishing's mission is to support the charitable, scientific and educational purposes of AIP through scholarly publishing activities in the fields of the physical and related sciences on its own behalf, on behalf of Member Societies of AIP, and on behalf of other publishing partners to help them proactively advance their missions. AIP Publishing's portfolio comprises 19 highly regarded, peer-reviewed journals, including the flagship journals Applied Physics Letters, Journal of Applied Physics, and The Journal of Chemical Physics, in addition to the AIP Conference Proceedings. See publishing.aip.org. About the American Institute of Physics American Institute of Physics (AIP) is a federation of ten scientific societies in the physical sciences (for a full list of Member Societies, see: https://www.aip.org/member-societies). As a charitable organization (a 501(c)(3) under the US tax code), AIP offers authoritative information, services, and expertise in physics education and student programs, science communication, government relations, career services for science and engineering professionals, statistical research in physics employment and education, industrial outreach, and history of the physical sciences. AIP publishes Physics Today, the most closely followed magazine of the physical sciences community. See aip.org. EMBARGOED UNTIL 9 a.m. ET Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, CLEVELAND: A new Cleveland Clinic study underscores the importance of early detection and treatment of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The research, published online today in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, indicates that the sooner patients were treated, the better their survival, particularly for stage I melanoma. Using the National Cancer Database, researchers from Cleveland Clinic's Dermatology & Plastic Surgery Institute studied 153,218 adult patients diagnosed with stage I-III melanoma from 2004 to 2012 and found that overall survival decreased in patients waiting longer than 90 days for surgical treatment, regardless of stage. In addition, the delay of surgery beyond the first 29 days negatively impacted overall survival for stage I melanoma, though not for stage II or III. Compared to patients who were treated within 30 days, patients with stage I melanoma were 5 percent more likely to die when treated between 30 and 59 days; 16 percent more likely to die when treated between 60 and 89 days; 29 percent more likely to die when treated between 91 and 120 days; and 41 percent more likely to die when treated after 120 days. Patients with a longer time to treatment initiation tended to be older and male, and have more comorbidities. According to the authors, it is likely that more advanced cases represent delays in diagnosis, and these delays overwhelm the impact of a speedier treatment. However, in early stage cases, early diagnosis allows for the opportunity to improve the chances of survival with a prompt surgery. Although many physicians follow a rule-of-thumb to treat melanoma surgically three to four weeks after diagnosis, there is no official recommendation on time to treatment. "The ideal timing for melanoma treatment, predominantly surgery, had yet to be determined - until now," said Brian Gastman, M.D., a plastic surgeon, director of melanoma surgery at Cleveland Clinic, and the primary investigator on the study. "Patients and referring physicians are not only concerned with how a melanoma is removed, but also when it's removed. We saw significantly worse prognoses and outcomes for those surgically treated after 30 days of stage I melanoma diagnosis. Knowing for certain that a more expedient time to surgery to remove an early melanoma improves the chances of survival is a game-changer in treating this life-threatening skin cancer." Melanoma rates are on the rise, and it's estimated that 161,790 new cases of the disease will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year. On average, one American dies of melanoma every hour. The study is a stark reminder of the importance of detecting skin cancer early, when it's most treatable. The American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to regularly examine their skin for signs of skin cancer, including the ABCDEs of melanoma: ASYMMETRY: Is one half of a mole unlike the other half? BORDER: Does a mole have an irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border? COLOR: It there more than one color in a mole, such as shades of tan and brown, black, white, red or blue? DIAMETER: Is a mole bigger than 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser)? Melanomas are usually bigger than 6 mm when diagnosed, but they can be smaller. EVOLVING: Does a mole or another spot on the skin that look different from the rest? Is a mole or another spot is changing in size, shape or color? Anyone who notices any new, changing or suspicious spots on their skin, or any spots that are changing, itching or bleeding, should see a board-certified dermatologist for diagnosis. Because many physicians may be involved in the treatment of stage I melanoma -including general practitioners, dermatologists, general surgeons, surgical oncologists and plastic surgeons, among others - it's important for the entire medical community to be aware of the danger of melanoma and provide prompt treatment. In addition, patients should be prepared to be their own health advocates to prevent delays in their treatment. The public can also take steps to reduce their melanoma risk by protecting themselves from exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun and indoor tanning beds, a risk factor for all types of skin cancer. The AAD recommends that everyone protect their skin from the sun by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. ### About Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Clinic is a nonprofit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, it was founded in 1921 by four renowned physicians with a vision of providing outstanding patient care based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery and the first face transplant in the United States. U.S. News & World Report consistently names Cleveland Clinic as one of the nation's best hospitals in its annual "America's Best Hospitals" survey. Among Cleveland Clinic's 51,000 employees are more than 3,500 full-time salaried physicians and researchers and 14,000 nurses, representing 140 medical specialties and subspecialties. Cleveland Clinic's health system includes a 165-acre main campus near downtown Cleveland, 10 regional hospitals, more than 150 northern Ohio outpatient locations - including 18 full-service family health centers and three health and wellness centers - and locations in Weston, Fla.; Las Vegas, Nev.; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, UAE; and London, England. In 2016, there were 7.1 million outpatient visits, 161,674 hospital admissions and 207,610 surgical cases throughout Cleveland Clinic's health system. Patients came for treatment from every state and 185 countries. Visit us at clevelandclinic.org. Follow us at twitter.com/ClevelandClinic. News and resources available at newsroom.clevelandclinic.org. Editor's Note: Cleveland Clinic News Service is available to provide broadcast-quality interviews and B-roll upon request. ORLANDO, Fla. - Oct. 17, 2017 - The sensitivity and reliability of Droplet Digital PCR will be showcased in over a dozen presentations at the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) 2017 Annual Meeting, Orlando, Fla., October 17-21. The breadth and diversity of the posters and plenaries demonstrate the impact Droplet Digital PCR technology has had throughout genomics. "It's gratifying to see the applications we proposed for Droplet Digital PCR in 2011 go from being theory to reality," said George Karlin-Neumann, Director of Scientific Affairs for Bio-Rad's Digital Biology Group. "Researchers trust Droplet Digital PCR technology for absolutely quantifying gene expression, measuring cell-free DNA, detecting rare mutations, and many other uses." Featured Talks and Demonstrations Rare Mutation Detection Maintains Stem Cell Integrity Stem cell therapies that are being developed with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) must be evaluated for safety risks before they reach the clinic as mutations may develop in the process of reprogramming and culturing iPSCs. Researchers at Kyoto University, Japan, led by Professor Naoko Takasu, are using Droplet Digital PCR to identify cells whose mutations might harm a potential patient. "We need to be able to identify any cancer-related de novo mutations, even if they occur at extremely low frequencies," said Tomoko Takahashi, PhD, a member of Prof. Takasu's group. The task requires a sensitive and specific technology. In her presentation, Takahashi will share how her group developed and validated a Droplet Digital PCR assay to detect a mutant allele with frequency as low as 0.5%. Takasu's group plans to use the method to identify rare structural variants and mosaicism among iPSCs and differentiated cell populations in future stem cell studies. This poster (abstract #410) will be presented on Thursday, October 19, from 3-4 PM during the Gene Structure and Function session. Cell-Free DNA Measurement Non-Invasively Detects Transplant Rejection The standard method for diagnosing lung transplant rejection is invasive and expensive. To develop a far less invasive alternative, Andrew Young and colleagues at Washington University in St. Louis are using Droplet Digital PCR technology to quantify donor-derived cell-free DNA (cfDNA), a marker of tissue rejection in blood. The study used a panel of probes that binds to specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and indels in human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules. The team showed that patients with biopsy-proven transplant rejection showed elevated levels of donor-derived cfDNA compared to patients without evidence of rejection. "Because HLA types differ from each other by known SNPs and small indels, Droplet Digital PCR analysis may be helpful in determining whether a patient is experiencing lung transplant rejection. The process of collecting this data is far less invasive than transbronchial lung biopsy," Young said. Young will present his group's findings at a special Bio-Rad Exhibitor Education Event on Thursday, October 19, at 12:30 PM. Interrogating Cancer Target with Absolute Gene Expression Quantification Droplet Digital PCR is empowering investigations into potential cancer therapeutics. A team at Umea University in Sweden, led by Dr. Irina Golovleva, will present research on the KIF23 gene, which is upregulated in many cancers. A mutated form of KIF23 causes a hereditary form of anemia known as CDA III, and researchers believe this could be due to the mutation's effect on the alternative splicing of KIF23. Using CDA III as a model, Golovleva's team is employing Droplet Digital PCR to understand how alternative splicing of KIF23 may also play a role in cancer. "Our early Droplet Digital data suggest when the disease-causing mutation is present, expression levels shift, causing the anemic phenotype," said Ann-Louise Vikberg, a PhD candidate in Dr. Golovleva's group. Making meaningful comparison of KIF23 expression levels across tissues is difficult to do using qPCR as it requires relative quantification of KIF23 with respect to housekeeping gene expression in each of the tissues. Droplet Digital PCR solved this issue with absolute quantification and enabled the Umea team to directly compare expression levels between different tissues. This poster (abstract #1693) will be presented on Wednesday, October 18, from 2-3 PM during the Developmental Genetics and Gene Function session. ### Visit booth #244 to learn more about Droplet Digital PCR at ASHG. All statements refer to Droplet Digital PCR's use as a laboratory developed test. The technology is for research use only. Bio-Rad, Droplet Digital, and ddPCR are trademarks of Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. in certain jurisdictions. About Bio-Rad Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: BIO and BIOb) develops, manufactures, and markets a broad range of innovative products and solutions for the life science research and clinical diagnostic markets. The company is renowned for its commitment to quality and customer service among university and research institutions, hospitals, public health and commercial laboratories, as well as the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and food safety industries. Founded in 1952, Bio-Rad is based in Hercules, California, and serves more than 100,000 research and healthcare industry customers through its global network of operations. The Company employs more than 8,350 people worldwide and had net sales exceeding $2 billion in 2016. For more information, please visit http://www.bio-rad.com. This release may be deemed to contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements we make regarding our development and launch of new products and our expectations regarding our products. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plan", "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "may," "will," "can," "intend," "estimate," "continue," or similar expressions or the negative of those terms or expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include our ability to develop and market new or improved products, product quality and liability issues, our ability to compete effectively, and international legal and regulatory risks. For further information regarding our risks and uncertainties, please refer to the "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation" in Bio-Rad's public reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Bio-Rad cautions you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect an analysis only and speak only as of the date hereof. We disclaim any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. One of the most severe consequences of spinal cord injury in the neck is losing the ability to control the diaphragm and breathe on one's own. Now, investigators show for the first time in laboratory models that two different sets of neural signals control the movement of the diaphragm--one that originates in the brain and one that starts in the spinal cord. The researchers used a drug to turn on this alternative nerve pathway and restore breath-like movements in rodents. The study appears October 17 in Cell Reports. "We realized that in order to further our research on how to direct nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury, we needed to first understand how this spinal activity arises," says first author Jared Cregg (@dubiousdueler), a graduate student in neuroscience at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine. "We took a basic approach to get at this question, which revealed the true nature of the mechanism." Rhythms in the nervous system are controlled by neural networks within the brain called central pattern generators. For breathing, the central pattern generator is located in the medulla region at the base of the skull. When the connection between the brain and the nerves that control the diaphragm is interrupted due to injury, the ability to breathe is lost. "It turns out, however, that not all activity signals come from the brain," says senior author Jerry Silver, a Professor of Neurosciences at CWRU. "We know that for movement of the limbs, the spinal cord sends signals to the motor neurons independent of the brain. This is why chickens are still able to run around after their heads are cut off." He explains that with locomotion, sometimes the role of the central pattern generator is actually to send signals to inhibit movements, so they become more controlled. "We wanted to see if there are similar signals coming from the spinal cord that can control the movement of the diaphragm and whether we could bring them out by blocking the inhibitory signals," he adds. There were three parts to the research. In the first set of experiments, the investigators used a laboratory model of ex vivo spinal cords that had been isolated from neonatal mice. When the spinal cords were bathed in drugs to block the inhibitory transmitters, the team detected spontaneous activity in the phrenic motor neurons--the nerves that control the movement of the diaphragm. Because there was no brain connected, this finding indicated that the spinal cord was able to control the diaphragm independent of signals that come from the medulla. "But these signals were not like those that induce breathing," Cregg explains. "They were not as rhythmic, and they had longer durations between them. It was clear that this activity was not respiration but a different, independent system." "We're not sure what this system does normally, but my speculation is that it has to do with the startle and gasp reflex," Silver adds. "This is a primitive response that has been kept in the spinal cord for emergencies, like gasping and screaming in response to danger." In the next set of experiments, the investigators set out to determine whether these nerve impulses could be controlled to make them more like regular breathing. Using the same ex vivo model, they applied optogenetics technologies and showed that they could give the phrenic motor neurons a faster, breath-like rhythm with the use of light pulses to control the firing of the nerves. Finally, they conducted experiments in adult rats and mice that had one side of their spinal cords severed at the C2 level (in the neck). The animals were then treated with drugs to block the inhibition of signals from the spinal cord. "When we did that, we saw these bursts of movement in the diaphragm on the side of the body where the spinal cord had been cut," Cregg says. "They were able to maintain this activity completely independent of the brain." The next step in the research is to determine whether the optogenetics technology can be used to turn these spontaneous signals into real breathing in adult lab animals. "Ultimately, the goal of this research would be to free people with these neck injuries from having to use mechanical ventilators," Silver concludes. "Infections and other complications from mechanical ventilators are a leading cause of death after spinal cord injuries." ### This work was supported by the National Science Foundation, the University Of Kentucky College Of Medicine, the National Institutes of Health, Case Western Reserve University, and the Mt. Sinai Foundation. Cell Reports, Cregg et al. "A Latent Propriospinal Network Can Restore Diaphragm Function After High Cervical Spinal Cord Injury." http://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(17)31381-5 Cell Reports (@CellReports), published by Cell Press, is a weekly open-access journal that publishes high-quality papers across the entire life sciences spectrum. The journal features reports, articles, and resources that provide new biological insights, are thought-provoking, and/or are examples of cutting-edge research. Visit: http://www.cell.com/cell-reports. To receive Cell Press media alerts, contact press@cell.com. LOS ALAMOS, N.M., Oct. 17, 2017 -- Astrophysicist Chris Fryer was enjoying an evening with friends on August 25, 2017, when he got the news of a gravitational-wave detection by LIGO, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory. The event appeared to be a merger of two neutron stars -- a specialty for the Los Alamos National Laboratory team of astrophysicists that Fryer leads. As the distant cosmic cataclysm unfolded, fresh observational data was pouring in from the observation -- only the fifth published since the observatory began operating almost two years ago. "As soon as I heard the news, I knew that understanding all of the implications would require input from a broad, multi-disciplinary set of scientists," said Fryer, who leads Los Alamos' Center for Theoretical Astrophysics. Fryer's colleagues, Ryan Wollaeger and Oleg Korobkin, outlined a series of radiation transport calculations and were given priority on Los Alamos' supercomputers to run them. "Within a few hours, we were up and running." They soon discovered the LIGO data showed more ejected mass from the merger than the simulations accounted for. Other researchers at Los Alamos began processing data from a variety of telescopes capturing optical, ultraviolet, x-ray, and gamma-ray signals at observatories around the world (and in space) that had all been quickly directed to the general location of the LIGO discovery. The theorists tweaked their models and, to their delight, the new LIGO data confirmed that heavy elements beyond iron were formed by the r-process (rapid process) in the neutron-star merger. The gravitational wave observation was having a major impact on theory. They also quickly noticed that, within seconds of the time of the gravitational waves, the Fermi spacecraft reported a burst of gamma rays from the same part of the sky. This is the first time that a gravitational wave source has been detected in any other way. It confirms Einstein's prediction that gravitational waves travel at the same speed as gamma rays: the speed of light. When neutron stars collide The gravitational wave emission and related electromagnetic outburst came from the merger of two neutron stars in a galaxy called NGC 4993, about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Hydra. The neutron stars are the crushed remains of massive stars that once blew up in tremendous explosions known as supernovas. With masses 10 and 20 percent greater than the sun's and a footprint the size of Washington, D.C., the neutron stars whirled around each other toward their demise, spinning hundreds of times per second. As they drew closer like a spinning ice skater pulling in her arms, their mutual gravitational attraction smashed the stars apart in a high-energy flash called a short gamma-ray burst and emitted the tell-tale gravitational wave signal. Although short gamma-ray bursts have long been theorized to be produced through neutron star mergers, this event -- with both gamma-ray and gravity wave observations -- provides the first definitive evidence. With Los Alamos's cross-disciplinary, multi-science expertise, the Los Alamos team was geared up and ready for just such an event. Laboratory researcher Oleg Korobkin is the lead theory author on a paper released yesterday in Science, while the Lab's Ryan Wollaeger is the second theory author on a paper released yesterday in Nature. Beyond that theory work, though, Los Alamos scientists were engaged in a broad range of observations, astronomy, and data analysis tasks in support of the LIGO neutron-star discovery. Because the Laboratory's primary mission centers on the nation's nuclear stockpile, Los Alamos maintains deep expertise in nuclear physics and its cousin astrophysics, the physics of radiation transport, data analysis, and the computer codes that run massive nuclear simulations on world-leading supercomputers. In other words, the Laboratory is a logical partner for extending LIGO discoveries into theories and models and for confirming the conclusions about what the observatory discovers. ### Among the key papers including Los Alamos' work with the LIGO observation are the following: "Multi-messenger Observations of a Binary Neutron Star Merger," Abbott et al., Astrophysical Journal Letters. Reports the search and discovery of multi-wavelength emission, including a coincident short gamma-ray burst, from the event detected in gravitational waves. Los Alamos researchers were involved in several of the observational/instrumentation teams that enabled these discoveries. "The X-ray counterpart to the gravitational wave event GW170817," Troja et al., Nature. Detection of X-ray emission at a location coincident with the kilonova transient provides the missing observational link between short gamma-ray bursts and gravitational waves from neutron mergers and independently confirms the collimated nature of the GRB emission. Ryan Wollaeger of Los Alamos is second theory author, in charge of kilonova. "Swift and NuSTAR observations of GW170817: detection of a blue kilonova," Evans et al., Science. Reports X-ray and UV observations of the first binary neutron star merger detected through gravitational waves. Los Alamos researchers providing theory work: Oleg Korobkin, Ryan Wollaeger, Wes Even, Chris Fontes, Chris Fryer, Aimee Hungerford, and David Palmer. "The Emergence of a Lanthanide-Rich Kilonova Following the Merger of Two Neutron Stars," Tanvir et al., Astrophysical Journal Letters. Reports on the discovery and monitoring of the near-infrared counterpart of a binary neutron-star merger event detected as a gravitational wave source by Advanced LIGO/Virgo (GW170817) and as a short gamma-ray burst by Fermi GBM and SPI-ACS (GRB\,170817A). The evolution of the transient light is consistent with predictions for the behavior of a "kilonova/macronova" powered by the radioactive decay of massive neutron-rich nuclides created through r-process nucleosynthesis in the neutron-star ejecta. Los Alamos' Oleg Korobkin is the lead theory author on the paper. He and Ryan Wollaeger, also from Los Alamos, did the kilonova models to match to the data. Wes Even, Chris Fontes, and Chris Fryer of Los Alamos were also authors. This research used resources provided by the Los Alamos National Laboratory Institutional Computing Program, which is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration under Contract No. DE-AC52-06NA25396. About Los Alamos National Laboratory Los Alamos National Laboratory, a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security, is operated by Los Alamos National Security, LLC, a team composed of Bechtel National, the University of California, BWX Technologies, Inc. and URS Corporation for the Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration. Los Alamos enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health and global security concerns. Human trafficking racket busted Police have arrested four members of a human trafficking racket involved in trafficking Nepali men and women with false promise of decent and lucrative jobs in Dubai on tourist visa. Around 245 BCE Ptolemy III, ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom in Egypt, made a decision that still puzzles many historians: After pursuing a successful military campaign against the kingdom's nemesis, the Seleucid Empire, centred mainly in present-day Syria and Iraq, Ptolemy III suddenly decided to return home. This about-face "changed everything about Near-East history," says Joseph Manning, a historian at Yale University. Now, Manning and his colleagues have identified a possible reason for Ptolemy III's trek back to Egypt: volcanoes. It's a strange link, but one borne out by evidence. Massive eruptions, a new study suggests, can disrupt the normal flow of the Nile River by cooling the planet's atmosphere. In Ancient Times, that may have led to food shortages and heightened existing tensions in the region. The research, which will be published on Tuesday, 17 October in Nature Communications, links eruptions not just to the end of Ptolemy III's war, but to a series of violent uprisings and other upheavals that rocked Ptolemaic Egypt - an empire that extended over large portions of Northeast Africa and the Middle East. The study creates a strong case that sudden shifts in climate can have big impacts on human society. And it's remarkable, Manning says, for doing so by drawing on a wide range of methods and evidence - from ice core records to Egyptian papyri. "That's the beauty of these climate records. For the first time, you can actually see a dynamic society in Egypt, not just a static description of a bunch of texts in chronological order," Manning says. "This is of absolutely enormous importance." This research is a product of the Volcanic Impacts on Climate and Society working group of Past Global Changes (PAGES), a global research project of Future Earth. At the heart of that dynamic society was the Nile River, the lifeblood of the Ptolemaic Kingdom. This empire arose in about 305 BCE, not long after the death of Alexander the Great, and ended around 30 BCE with the death of Cleopatra. During this period, Egyptian farmers depended on the yearly flooding of the Nile in July through September to irrigate their grain fields - inventing systems of channels and dams to store the river's overflow. "When the Nile flood was good, the Nile valley was one of the most agriculturally-productive places in the Ancient World," says Francis Ludlow, a climate historian at Trinity College in Dublin and a co-author of the new study. "But the river was famously prone to a high level of variation." In some years the Nile didn't rise high enough to flood the land, and that could lead to trouble. Historical records suggest, for example, that a shortage of grain and the unrest that followed were behind Ptolemy III's return to Egypt. And Ludlow had reason to think that volcanoes could be behind some of those bad years. The reason comes down to a squiggly band of monsoon weather that circles the planet's equator called the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). Every year around summer in the northern hemisphere, this band moves up from the equator. That, in turn, soaks the headwaters of the Blue Nile River, a major tributary of the Nile. But when volcanoes erupt, they blast out sulfurous gases that, through a chain of events, cool the atmosphere. If that happens in the Northern Hemisphere, it can keep the monsoon rains from moving as far as they usually do. "When the monsoon rains don't move far enough north, you don't have as much rain falling over Ethiopia," Ludlow says. "And that's what feeds the summer flood of the Nile in Egypt that was so critical to agriculture." But how often would eruptions diminish the river's flooding? To find out, Ludlow, Manning and their colleagues turned to computer simulations and real-world measurements of the Nile River that date back to 622 CE. The team discovered that poor flood years on the Nile lined up over and over with a recently published timeline of major volcanic eruptions around the world. That evidence suggested that when volcanoes explode, the Nile tended to stay calm. The team then dug further to see if that might have an impact on Egyptian society during the Ptolemaic era, which is rich in papyri and other written records. They include the trilingual Rosetta Stone. Again, the timelines matched: Volcanic eruptions preceded many major political and economic events that affected Egypt. They included Ptolemy III's exit from Syria and Iraq - just after a major eruption in 247 BCE - and the Theban revolt, a 20-year uprising by Egyptians against Greek rule. The researchers then examined how likely it was that these events occurred so close in time to eruptions, finding it "highly unlikely to have occurred by chance, such is the level of overlap," Ludlow says. The volcanic eruptions didn't cause these upheavals on their own, both Ludlow and Manning stress. But they likely added fuel to existing economic, political and ethnic tensions. For historians, "it's like we've all been in a dark room bumping into furniture, and now we have a candle lit," Manning says. The results may also have implications for the modern era. Currently, Ethiopia is in the middle of building a humongous dam called the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, or GERD, on the Blue Nile. Tensions are already high between the nation and Egypt over how the water resources of the river will be distributed. A sudden change in climate, such as from a volcanic eruption, could make these "fraught hydropolitics even more fraught," Ludlow says. "The 21st century has been lacking in explosive eruptions of the kind that can severely affect monsoon patterns. But that could change at any time," he says. "The potential for this needs to be taken into account in trying to agree on how the valuable waters of the Blue Nile are going to be managed between Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt." ### Contact information: Joseph Manning Yale University New Haven, USA email: joseph.manning@yale.edu Francis Ludlow Trinity College Dublin Ireland email: ludlowf@tcd.ie Bats often get the short end of the stick -- when you look around in October, they're featured in Halloween decorations right up there with unsavory characters like monsters and ghosts. But these animals are key to their environments as pollinators, dispersers of seeds, and insect-eaters. Plus, in the case of flying fox fruit bats, they have faces that even a bat-hating chiroptophobe could love -- they look like German shepherd puppies with wings. A new study out of The Field Museum and the University of Queensland, published in the conservation journal Oryx, delves into bat conservation on the Solomon Islands, where flying foxes play an important role in local tradition: the bats' teeth are used as currency. "Island flying foxes are a diverse group of bats, and they're nearly all in trouble. Many species are endangered or extinct from some islands," says lead author Tyrone Lavery of The Field Museum. In other Pacific islands outside of the Solomons, hunting has led to drastic reductions of flying fox populations. So, when Lavery learned about the custom of using flying fox teeth as currency on one of the islands making up the Solomons, Makira, he was curious how the practice played into locals' hunting habits. "Many island flying foxes are endangered, but the effects of using their teeth as currency hasn't been studied before," he notes. Lavery and his co-author John Fasi, a University of Queensland scientist originally from Makira, Solomon Islands, surveyed 197 Makira residents to learn about their use of flying fox teeth. The scientists wanted to know how the teeth were being used, whether the teeth were a driving factor in hunting, and how hunters might play a role in conservation of the flying foxes. "Doing this study was fun -- people think you are crazy to be asking about bats," says Fasi. "They see how abundant the bats are in the wild and have no knowledge that they are threatened." Through the survey, the scientists learned that of the two types of flying foxes on Makira, the larger Pacific flying fox (Pteropus tonganus) and the smaller Makira flying fox (Pteropus cognatus), people were primarily hunting the big ones. Pacific flying foxes have a three-foot wingspan, and their teeth are big enough for people to drill holes in and make necklaces to use as currency. However, more important than their tooth size is their body mass overall: the primary reason these bats are hunted, Lavery and Fasi learned, is their meat, an important source of protein for Makira's residents. But while the bats' teeth aren't the primary reason why people hunt them, the teeth are put to important use: Makira locals use them as currency for important traditional transactions, like paying for weddings. Lavery and Fasi also learned that while Makirans of all ages engaged in bat hunting, younger generations thought that the practice of usingbat teeth as currency would wane. "It is becoming evident that modern currency is slowing taking over the use of traditional currency," says Fasi. "However, we see that the use of bats as food is still going on. But conserving bats involves a number of fronts, like protecting their habitats, forests and mangroves, from destruction. Perhaps balancing between the number of batskilled for traditional practices and the need to conserve some will continue to keep the population of bats intact." The authors note that the answer to protecting the bats doesn't simply lie in forbidding Makirans from hunting them. "The practice of hunting bats shouldn't necessarily be stopped, it needs to be managed sustainably. The continuing use of traditional currency is something to be celebrated" says Lavery. "It's important for scientists to communicate with local hunters and say, these bats are important to your culture, but they're also vulnerable." The bats' important role in Makiran traditions makes a good argument for preserving them as a species, says Lavery: "It's a positive, not a negative, that their teeth are so culturally valuable." "We would not discourage people from using bat teeth because it is an important custom, and people don't hunt for teeth only. But at the same time, we encourage people to hunt sustainably," says Fasi. "Conservation work must always get the support of local communities if it is to work." These conservation efforts could include suggesting that hunters avoid targeting bat roosts and setting aside protected areas in regions of Makira that already have low hunting. Additionally, as bats are one of the few sources of protein on the island, finding new protein sources could lessen dependence on bat bushmeat. Lavery notes the importance of the study for its role in protecting flying foxes, which, by extension, protects the island's environment overall. "The bats are hugely important for health of Makira's whole ecosystem. The Pacific islands are exposed to hurricanes, which can destroy forests -- fruit bats spread seeds that help forests regenerate." And, remarks Lavery, "It's pretty amazing when it's getting towards dusk and you're sitting next to the shore and you see these massive bats come gliding over the ocean. It's just fascinating -- you don't know where they're going or where they're coming from, and it makes you really marvel and wonder at them." ### ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- For many of the 2 million Americans addicted to opioids, getting good treatment and getting off prescription painkillers or heroin may seem like a far-off dream. But a new study suggests the answer could lie much closer to home, in the primary care clinics where they go for basic medical care. Evidence compiled by a University of Michigan team suggests that primary care physicians and their existing teams of nurses, medical assistants, social workers and pharmacists can indeed provide effective addiction care using anti-opioid medication. The researchers hope their findings will encourage more general practitioners to start offering medication-assisted therapy or MAT. They've published the new systematic review of the peer-reviewed evidence in PLoS One as a way of showing which elements worked for primary care physicians and clinics who did try providing MAT. A drug to get off drugs MAT combines a medication called buprenorphine with counseling. It has a track record of success for easing the withdrawal from opioid dependence - but it requires frequent check-in visits, drug monitoring tests and prescription refills for months or even years on end. In addition, the federal government requires that physicians take an eight-hour course to before they can prescribe buprenorphine. All of this contributes to a current environment where few primary care physicians provide buprenorphine as addiction treatment. Use of MAT has increased in recent years, driven by the opioid crisis and MAT coverage through Medicaid expansion in many states. The federal government has increased the number of MAT patients that one physician can treat at any given time. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants can also get permission to prescribe MAT in states where they have prescribing privileges. But the number of people who need addiction care still far outpaces the number who can provide MAT using buprenorphine or its more-intensive and more-restricted cousin methadone. "There is a major need to do this," says Pooja Lagisetty, M.D., M.Sc., the study's lead author and a University of Michigan primary care doctor who provides MAT to her own patients at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System. "It's hard to convince primary care physicians to do this work when they're already busy and they don't have additional addiction-related training or experience. But if we can learn from others and find a way to offer physicians logistical support, then maybe it's possible." Studying the studies Lagisetty and her colleagues looked globally for common elements in successful primary care MAT models. They compiled data from 41 studies conducted in several U.S. states, as well as Great Britain, Australia, Canada, Ireland, France and Italy. In general, they find that patients had the highest chance of successful opioid addiction treatment when their primary care physician worked with a team of non-physicians to deliver MAT. The successful models featured coordinated care, in which physicians handled the patient encounters where their skills were required or most needed, and other team members helped patients between doctor appointments. Nurse case managers, who handled duties including regular phone calls to track patients' symptoms and cravings, were a common element. A few care models were based solely on a physician handling all MAT duties. "Multidisciplinary teams featured in the bulk of the studies we evaluated, though every one took a different approach and many ended up with similar results," says Lagisetty, a clinical lecturer in the Division of General Internal Medicine at Michigan Medicine, U-M's academic medical center, and a member of U-M's Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation. A large majority of the sites included in the studies did not have a specific addiction focused counselor. "This suggests primary care clinics have a bit of 'wiggle room' to use the resources and staff already available at their respective clinics to manage all the components of MAT," Lagisetty notes. Best of the best The researchers zeroed in on 7 studies that showed the best success - with 60 percent or more of patients staying on their MAT regimen for three months or more, and a good score on the standard scale the U-M researchers developed. Lagisetty notes that many of the clinics in these best studies did not have an addiction psychologist or other addiction counselor as part of their teams. Many, but not all, required patients to sign contracts pledging they would avoid opioids. The new analysis also shows that primary clinics do not need to give the first dose of buprenorphine to patients while they're physically in the clinic. These "inductions", which occur hours after the patient has stopped using opioids and is beginning to feel the symptoms of withdrawal, can occur at home as long as the patient has someone to call about any cravings or symptoms they may feel after starting to take the medication. She hopes the new systematic review of the evidence for primary care MAT will spur more clinics to consider offering the option. She also points to a recent Annals of Internal Medicine scoping review that evaluated the different models for MAT laid out by local and state government agencies. Primary care teams already provide intensive treatment for other conditions and medication regimens, Lagisetty observes. These range from anticoagulation medicine for people with high risk of blood clots, to managing heart failure patients and people on insulin for diabetes. Such patients also often require checks between physician appointments while they are being stabilized. Non-physician team members help with dose monitoring and frequent check-ins by phone or in person with the patient. "We can build upon these existing resources to similarly treat patients with MAT," she says. In fact, Lagisetty and two of her co-authors on the new paper, Amy Bohnert, Ph.D., and Michele Heisler, M.D., M.S., published a paper last year setting forth the anticoagulation clinic model as a model for MAT. She notes that anticoagulation medications don't come with the kind of federal regulations that buprenorphine has. "We already have studies showing that MAT in primary care can produce similar results to providing it in specialty care settings, and patients might be more willing to seek help in a primary care setting because of the lack of stigma and the ability to address their other health concerns," she concludes. "Doing MAT in primary care makes sense. "I don't think that many primary care physicians went into medicine with a desire to focus on treating addiction," she concedes. "However, opioid addiction is increasingly becoming common in our practices and our patients are struggling to find help. Primary care doctors don't need to all be treating 100 patients. It can just be five. We should just have the medication in our tool box and be able to screen and potentially treat patients in our own setting." ### NJIT and IBM announce an agreement for collaboration to deliver digital technologies and education through the university's Martin Tuchman School of Management (MTSM) and its Business Analytics Lab. The official launch of the new flagship alliance between MTSM and IBM Global University Programs will take place Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Campus Center Atrium at NJIT. David McQueeney, IBM Vice President, Corporate Technology and Community, will give the keynote address at 10 a.m., followed by a panel discussion featuring technology experts, educators and business leaders and an IBM Watson Analytics Quick Start demonstration. "Companies across all business sectors are looking for people who leverage and integrate fundamental business knowledge with technology skills to achieve success in today's data-driven world of global business," said MTSM Dean Reggie Caudill. "This agreement, the first of its kind in North America, is another step that demonstrates NJIT's commitment to 'Business With the Power of STEM' on behalf of the Martin Tuchman School of Management. The Tuchman School is committed to ensuring that all its students are ready to meet the challenges of the business world, understand the technologies and tools required to succeed in business and have the hands-on experience necessary to build their skills and expand their knowledge." In July 2017, the Martin Tuchman School of Management at NJIT became the first university in the United States -- and the only university in North America -- to adopt the IBM Skills Academy. Faculty and Instructor training and certification are underway on three career tracks. Beginning this semester, Business Intelligence Analyst, Business Process Analyst and Predictive Analyst Modeler courses are being offered for NJIT students, in addition to boot camps and workshops for students across the university and nearby community. "IBM is committed to doing our part to expand educational opportunities so more students and professionals can learn the in-demand new collar skills that will help them thrive in today's marketplace," said Dr. Naguib Attia, Ph.D, Vice President, IBM Global University Programs. "After seeing this program's success in Africa, we're excited to be working with NJIT to bring the program to the United States for the first time." NJIT has invested millions of dollars into major new research facilities to give students the edge they need in today's demanding, high-tech marketplace. Implementing the IBM Skills Academy Program further demonstrates the university's commitment to providing their students with that edge. The IBM-NJIT implementation strategy is based on a blended delivery format with hands-on learning and online instruction modules from the IBM Skills Academy developed by IBM and its Global University Programs, and the integration into business and management courses through the Business Analytics Laboratory. The initial phase of this agreement will center around the integration of IBM technologies into current MTSM offerings focusing on the following areas: 1) Data Science: Business Intelligence Analyst and Predictive Analytics Modeler; and 2) Business Process: Business Process Analyst. Students participating in these courses, boot camps, and workshops will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized digital badges and IBM technology certifications in addition to normal class credit. This certification and micro-credentialing will be a significant differentiator and competitive advantage to the students during their job search process and throughout their careers. The partnership is intended to expand into professional certificate programs available in addition to or separate from NJIT's bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. This will provide veterans, working professionals and other groups with a range of options to access new-collar training, credentials and degrees that are in high demand by employers. The technologies will be delivered to NJIT via the IBM Cloud, which provides access to the company's Watson suite of cognitive computing capabilities. This strategy is complementary to the Martin Tuchman School of Management Ray Cassetta Financial Analysis Laboratory where Bloomberg tools and Salesforce cloud technologies are available to NJIT students. The Business Analytics Laboratory will be the academic hub and access point for the IBM technologies. ### About NJIT One of the nation's leading public technological universities, New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is a top-tier research university that prepares students to become leaders in the technology-dependent economy of the 21st century. NJIT's multidisciplinary curriculum and computing-intensive approach to education provide technological proficiency, business acumen and leadership skills. With an enrollment of 11,400 graduate and undergraduate students, NJIT offers small-campus intimacy with the resources of a major public research university. NJIT is a global leader in such fields as solar research, nanotechnology, resilient design, tissue engineering, and cybersecurity, in addition to others. NJIT is among the top U.S. polytechnic public universities in research expenditures, exceeding $130 million, and is among the top 1 percent of public colleges and universities in return on educational investment, according to PayScale.com. NJIT has a $1.74 billion annual economic impact on the State of New Jersey. OAK BROOK, Ill. - A machine learning tool can help identify which high-risk breast lesions are likely to become cancerous, according to a new study appearing online in the journal Radiology. Researchers said the technology has the potential to reduce unnecessary surgeries. High-risk breast lesions are biopsy-diagnosed lesions that carry an increased risk of developing into cancer. Because of that risk, surgical removal is often the preferred treatment option. However, many high-risk lesions do not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life and can be safely monitored with follow-up imaging, sparing patients the costs and complications associated with surgery. "There are different types of high-risk lesions," said study author and radiologist Manisha Bahl, M.D., M.P.H., from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School, both in Boston. "Most institutions recommend surgical excision for high-risk lesions such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, for which the risk of upgrade to cancer is about 20 percent. For other types of high-risk lesions, the risk of upgrade varies quite a bit in the literature, and patient management, including the decision about whether to remove or survey the lesion, varies across practices." Dr. Bahl and colleagues at MGH studied the use of a machine learning tool to identify high-risk lesions that are at low risk for upgrade to cancer. The study resulted from a close collaboration between researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory in Cambridge, Mass., and breast imaging experts at MGH. "Because diagnostic tools are inexact, there is an understandable tendency for doctors to over-screen for breast cancer," said coauthor Regina Barzilay, Ph.D., the Delta Electronics Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT. "When there's this much uncertainty in data, machine learning is exactly the tool that we need to improve detection and prevent overtreatment." Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence in which a model automatically learns and improves based on previous experiences. The model developed by researchers analyzed traditional risk factors such as patient age and lesion histology, along with several unique features, including words that appear in the text from the biopsy pathology report. The researchers trained the model on a group of patients with biopsy-proven high-risk lesions who had surgery or at least two-year imaging follow-up. Of the 1,006 high-risk lesions identified, 115, or 11 percent, were upgraded to cancer. After training the machine learning model on two-thirds of the high-risk lesions, the researchers tested it on the remaining 335 lesions. The model correctly predicted 37 of the 38 lesions, or 97 percent, that were upgraded to cancer. The researchers also found that use of the model would have helped avoid almost one-third of benign surgeries. The machine-learning model identified the terms "severely" and "severely atypical" in the text of the pathology reports as associated with a greater risk of upgrade to cancer. "Our study provides 'proof of concept' that machine learning can not only decrease unnecessary surgery by nearly one-third in this specific patient population, but also can support more targeted, personalized approaches to patient care," said the paper's senior author, Constance Lehman, M.D., Ph.D., professor at Harvard Medical School and Director of Breast Imaging at MGH. "Our goal is to apply the tool in clinical settings to help make more informed decisions as to which patients will be surveilled and which will go on to surgery," Dr. Bahl added. "I believe we can capitalize on machine learning to inform clinical decision making and ultimately improve patient care." ### "High-Risk Breast Lesions: A Machine Learning Model to Predict Pathologic Upgrade and Reduce Unnecessary Surgical Excision." Collaborating with Drs. Bahl, Barzilay and Lehman were Adam B. Yedidia, M.Eng., Nicholas J. Locascio, M.Eng., and Lili Yu, Ph.D. Radiology is edited by Herbert Y. Kressel, M.D., Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass., and owned and published by the Radiological Society of North America, Inc. (http://pubs.rsna.org/journal/radiology) RSNA is an association of over 54,600 radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical physicists and related scientists promoting excellence in patient care and health care delivery through education, research and technologic innovation. The Society is based in Oak Brook, Ill. (RSNA.org) For patient-friendly information on breast imaging, visit RadiologyInfo.org. Rice University researchers have developed a computational model to quantify the mechanism by which CRISPR-Cas9 proteins find their genome-editing targets. Anatoly Kolomeisky, a Rice professor of chemistry and chemical and biomolecular engineering, and alumnus Alexey Shvets adapted a system they developed earlier to show how proteins generally find their biological targets. They hope the revised model will help unlock the remaining mysteries of CRISPR. In its natural state, CRISPR, which stands for "clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats," is the biological mechanism by which bacteria protect themselves from viral infections. The bacteria incorporate a copy of the foreign DNA and build a record of all those that invade. They refer to that record when new invaders are detected and use it to destroy them. In recent years, researchers have begun to adapt the mechanism for use in genome editing, which has the potential to cure disease and enhance organisms, including humans. But a stumbling block has been the risk that CRISPR-Cas9 proteins, one of the systems that utilize the CRISPR approach, will cut and replace the wrong target sequences, introducing mutations. The Rice model described in the Biophysical Journal found it likely that CRISPR-Cas9 locates good targets more efficiently when these off-target edits are allowed to happen, because the proteins don't waste time disassociating from off-targets to continue searching. That may or may not be a good thing, but it's certainly worthy of study, Kolomeisky said. "The error rate (off-target cutting) is sometimes 10-20 percent," he said. "We have two ideas about this: One is that viruses mutate very quickly and maybe bacteria are trying to cut targets that are only slightly mutated as a way to be more flexible. The other is that there are proteins that can correct mistakes, so if there aren't many wrong cuts, the system can tolerate them. "What's come from our model is that we think off-target cutting really can help on-target cutting be faster." Kolomeisky said his model is a simple step toward figuring out the dynamics of CRISPR editing. "CRISPR-Cas9 is the most popular variation because it has only one protein and is easier, biologically, to work with," he said. The Rice lab developed its original model to learn how proteins slide along DNA to find targets and trigger processes like gene transcription. Kolomeisky noted CRISPR pioneer Jennifer Doudna discovered that CRISPR-Cas9 does not seek in the same way. "She found it doesn't slide anywhere on the DNA," he said. Instead, according to Doudna and her team, the protein initially recognizes three-nucleotide PAM (for protospacer adjacent motif) sequences that mark the location of potential targets. "CRISPR finds and binds to PAM and then its associated RNA explores the adjacent DNA to see if this is the target," Kolomeisky said. "If it is, the protein starts to cut. If not, it disassociates and looks elsewhere." In Doudna's subsequent experiments with PAM sequences removed, CRISPR-Cas9 proteins could not find their targets at all. So PAMs have an important role and are not just a generic spacer, he said. "As soon as I read this, I understood we could use our model here as well." The theoretical model looks at first-passage processes -- those that happen when a system crosses a physical or chemical threshold, like finding a relevant PAM -- to track CRISPR-Cas9 proteins inserted into a cell as they first survey PAM sequences and then, while bonded to PAMs, search for the DNA target that matches the Cas9's RNA. They found CRISPRs that avoid off-target cuts by disassociating from "wrong" DNA take longer to settle than one that simply cuts off-targets. "Going to the wrong PAM takes time," Kolomeisky said. "Our calculation shows CRISPR can find real targets faster when it sometimes cuts in the wrong places. The fraction that goes to the right targets may be smaller, but you will cut them eventually. "It's a simple model and exactly solvable," Kolomeisky said. "If somebody wants to test, the model can provide specific predictions and in some cases offer trends for what should be observed." What remains missing from the model is the ability to see whether the RNA key recognizes its target simultaneously -- binding to the DNA all at once -- or sequentially, nucleotide by nucleotide. "The most impressive thing about CRISPR is not the discovery of an immune system in bacteria but the fact that this has created a revolution in biotechnology, because it means that in any cell we can cut any DNA at a specific location, very precisely," Kolomeisky said. "I hope our work will stimulate more fundamental studies, because I like the CRISPR method very much. But I am not happy when people apply it without understanding how it works at the molecular level." Shvets is now a postdoctoral researcher at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Kolomeisky is a professor of chemistry and of chemical and biomolecular engineering. ### The Welch Foundation, the National Science Foundation and Rice's Center for Theoretical Biological Physics supported the research. Read the abstract at http://www.cell.com/biophysj/fulltext/S0006-3495(17)30872-X DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.08.013 This news release can be found online at http://news.rice.edu/2017/10/16/need-for-speed-makes-genome-editing-efficient-if-not-better/ Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews Related materials: Biology's need for speed tolerates a few mistakes: http://news.rice.edu/2017/05/02/biologys-need-for-speed-tolerates-a-few-mistakes-2/ Kolomeisky Research Group: http://python.rice.edu/~kolomeisky/ Wiess School of Natural Sciences: http://natsci.rice.edu Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,879 undergraduates and 2,861 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for quality of life and for lots of race/class interaction and No. 2 for happiest students by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance. To read "What they're saying about Rice," go to http://tinyurl.com/RiceUniversityoverview. WASHINGTON -- For many decades astronomers relied on light for their observations of astronomical objects. Today, a team of scientists from the international LIGO (LSC) and Virgo Scientific Collaborations (VSC) announced the detection of the bright spark of two neutron stars colliding, shedding light on the previously unknown origins of some of the universe's heavy elements. The event, which occurred on 17 August and named GW170817, was more than a minute and a half and covered the full acoustic frequency range sampled by the research team. Comprised of three enormous laser interferometers located in the USA and Italy, the LIGO and Virgo detectors work together to detect and understand the origins of gravitational waves. The waves detected on 17 August, came from the violent merger of two neutron stars--the dense, dying remnants of massive stars after they undergo a supernova. The research team indirectly observed the debris from the collision moving at speeds so rapid that models suggest they could only be achieved if two of these celestial bodies collided. These two now-famous neutron stars likely formed roughly 11 billion years ago and have finally collided. "Today, we announced a new era of multi-messenger astronomy," said David H. Reitze, LIGO Executive Director and Fellow of The Optical Society. "It's the first time that we've observed a cataclysmic astrophysical event in both gravitational waves and electromagnetic waves -- our cosmic messengers. Gravitational-wave astronomy offers new opportunities to understand the properties of neutron stars in ways that just can't be achieved with electromagnetic astronomy alone. Our goal is to have more gravitational wave detectors coming online in the next two to five years, and we expect to see more discoveries of binary black holes and neutron stars." Laura Cadonati, deputy spokesperson of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration and associate professor, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, added, "The optical science research in the areas of high-energy astrophysical neutrinos and gravitational waves, continue to impact how we view our universe. With the combined information we are learning from this discovery, we will continue to do more testing as more gravitational wave events are found. This is the first event but it will not be the last." LIGO's first detection in September 2015 discovered a black hole with a solar mass of 62. A second detection came in December 2015 with a solar mass of 21. The third detection in June 2016 discovered a black hole with a solar mass of 49 times the sun. On August 14, the Advanced LIGO and Virgo facilities detected the merger of two black holes with masses of about 31 and 25 times the mass of the Sun and located about 1.8 billion light-years away. Using advanced optical-based systems, the research team saw distinct evidence of radiation produced by the matter from the 'kilonova' cooling into heavy elements. A single kilonova can produce an entire Earth's worth of heavy elements, such as; gold, platinum, iron and nickel. At this time, it is unclear if this is a typical result of collisions of this magnitude. Neutron stars are the smallest, densest stars known to exist and are formed when massive stars explode in supernovas. As these neutron stars spiraled together, they emitted gravitational waves that were detectable for about 100 seconds; when they collided, a flash of light in the form of gamma rays was emitted and seen on Earth about two seconds after the gravitational waves. In the days and weeks following the smashup, other forms of light, or electromagnetic radiation -- including X-ray, ultraviolet, optical, infrared, and radio waves -- were detected. Optical telescopes first found a new point of light, resembling a new star. Ultimately, about 70 observatories on the ground and in space observed the event on August 17 at their representative wavelengths. A 16-inch portable telescope enabled the discovery announced today. The research team noted that amateur astronomers on the earth may be able to 'see' more and more of these events in the future night sky. About the LIGO and Virgo Scientific Collaborations LIGO is funded by the NSF, and operated by Caltech and MIT, which conceived of LIGO and led the Initial and Advanced LIGO projects. Financial support for the Advanced LIGO project was led by the NSF with Germany (Max Planck Society), the U.K. (Science and Technology Facilities Council) and Australia (Australian Research Council) making significant commitments and contributions to the project. More than 1,200 scientists and some 100 institutions from around the world participate in the effort through the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, which includes the GEO Collaboration and the Australian collaboration OzGrav. Additional partners are listed at http://ligo.org/partners.php The Virgo collaboration consists of more than 280 physicists and engineers belonging to 20 different European research groups: six from Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) in France; eight from the Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN) in Italy; two in the Netherlands with Nikhef; the MTA Wigner RCP in Hungary; the POLGRAW group in Poland; Spain with the University of Valencia; and the European Gravitational Observatory, EGO, the laboratory hosting the Virgo detector near Pisa in Italy, funded by CNRS, INFN, and Nikhef. About The Optical Society Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and entrepreneurs who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit osa.org. Media Contacts: Rebecca B. AndersenThe Optical Society1-202-416-1443 Joshua Miller The Optical Society jmiller@osa.org 1-202-416-1435 ### Use of arsenic trioxide could extend survival of some glioblastoma patients by three to four times historic median PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Oct. 17, 2017 -- From Sherlock Holmes to Agatha Christie, arsenic is often the poison of choice in popular whodunits. But in ultra-low dosage, and in the right form, this naturally occurring chemical element can be a potent force against cancer. Arsenic trioxide for years has been used to fend off a rare subtype of blood cancer known as acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Now, in a study led by Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), this anti-cancer agent is being considered for use against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common and aggressive type of deadly brain tumors. The study was published today in Molecular Cancer Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). "Our findings show that, for some patients, arsenic trioxide could be a powerful therapy that could extend the lives of certain glioblastoma patients by as much as three to four times the median expectation," said Dr. Harshil Dhruv, an Assistant Professor in TGen's Cancer and Cell Biology Division and one of the study's authors. Median survival of glioblastoma patients is only 15 months, and survival statistics have improved only minimally over the past three decades. An estimated 17,000 Americans will die this year of brain and other nervous system cancers. The origin of this new study had all the serendipitous turns of a good mystery novel. TGen had recently identified arsenic trioxide among a library of 650 compounds that could potentially be used against different subtypes of glioblastoma. While Dr. Dhruv was presenting these findings at a scientific conference, he met Dr. Jonathan Bell, who at the time was a graduate student in the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) at Northwestern University. He described his work, showing resistance of a specific subtype of GBM against arsenic trioxide. In two clinical studies they examined, the therapeutic effects of arsenic trioxide were initially dismissed. But as Drs. Dhruv and Bell drilled down into the studies, they discovered that a specific subtype of GBM cells were more responsive to the arsenic trioxide treatment. Northwestern was involved in one of the clinical trials, which tested the efficacy of arsenic trioxide in combination with temozolomide (TMZ) and radiation in treatment of GBM. Researchers at Northwestern were able to share biospecimens from their clinical trial with TGen. "We were then able to identify these particular patients as having the same genomic signatures as those we had tentatively identified in our computer and laboratory screenings of potential therapies," Dr. Dhruv said. The next step will be to validate the findings published in Molecular Cancer Research by initiating a new clinical trial specifically designed to match arsenic trioxide with glioblastoma patients that have a specific genomic signature, according to Dr. Michael Berens, a TGen Deputy Director and Professor in TGen's Cancer and Cell Biology Division, and one of the study's authors. These patients also would receive TMZ, which is the current standard-of-care drug given to GBM patients. "This is an amazing convergence of complimentary thinking," Dr. Berens said. "We tripped over a clinical partner who said, 'Oh, we've already done the (preliminary) clinical trial.' " "We sought to identify compounds that specifically disrupt the growth of different GBM molecular subtypes," said Dr. Leonidas Platanias, Director of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, and the study's senior author. Researchers reassessed the earlier clinical trials and zeroed in on mesenchymal (MES) and proneural (PN) glioma subtypes, whose genomic signatures differ according to distinct underlying misbehaving genes. "Arsenic trioxide was found to be the most potent compound in non-MES GBM cells. We found that PN GBM patients responded better to ATO (arsenic trioxide) than any other subtypes as demonstrated by longer overall and progression-free survival," said Dr. Bell, the study's lead author. Researchers identified two additional advantages of using arsenic trioxide. First, it is a small molecule able to penetrate the network of ultra-small capillaries -- the blood-brain barrier -- that surrounds the brain and spinal fluid and protects the central nervous system from most toxins and spikes in hormones. It is this barrier that prevents most other anti-cancer drugs from attacking brain tumors. Second, its costs are minimal, since its source material, arsenic, is abundant in nature. "Rather than treat all patients, we want to design a prospective clinical trial that we can enrich for those patients whose genomic signatures indicate they would be the best candidates for success," Dr. Dhruv said. "This would be a biomarker-driven, precision-medicine clinical trial for glioblastoma -- a way to match the right drug to the right patient." ### Also contributing to this study were: Prairie View A&M University, the Jesse Brown Veterans Administration Medical Center, the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, and the University of Alabama. Funding for this study -- Differential Response of Glioma Stem Cells to Arsenic Trioxide Therapy is Regulated by MNK1 and mRNA Translation -- was provided by grants from the National Institutes of Health (CA121192, 41 CA77816, and CA155566, U01CA168397), the Department of Veterans Affairs (I01CX000916), and The Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation. About The Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation The Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation, based in Scottsdale, Ariz., was formed in 2005, when Ben Ivy lost his battle with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Since then, the Foundation has contributed more than $70 million to research in gliomas within the United States and Canada, with the goal of better diagnostics and treatments that offer long-term survival and a high quality of life for patients with brain tumors. The Ben & Catherine Ivy Foundation is the largest privately funded foundation of its kind in the United States. For more information, visit http://www.ivyfoundation.org. About TGen Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) is a Phoenix, Arizona-based non-profit organization dedicated to conducting groundbreaking research with life changing results. TGen is focused on helping patients with neurological disorders, cancer, diabetes, and infectious diseases, through cutting edge translational research (the process of rapidly moving research towards patient benefit). TGen physicians and scientists work to unravel the genetic components of both common and rare complex diseases in adults and children. Working with collaborators in the scientific and medical communities literally worldwide, TGen makes a substantial contribution to help our patients through efficiency and effectiveness of the translational process. TGen is affiliated with City of Hope, a world-renowned independent research and cancer and diabetes treatment center: http://www.cityofhope.org. This precision medicine affiliation enables both institutes to complement each other in research and patient care, with City of Hope providing a significant clinical setting to advance scientific discoveries made by TGen. For more information, visit: http://www.tgen.org. Follow TGen on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter @TGen. Media Contact: Steve YozwiakTGen Senior Science Writer602-343-8704 About Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine is a top 20 medical school where nationally recognized scientists collaborate with skilled clinicians to improve human health. More than 3,400 faculty members teach, practice medicine, and conduct research at the medical school, which is a central component of Northwestern Medicine, a premier academic health system. About PVAMU Founded in 1876, Prairie View A&M University is the second oldest public institution of higher learning in the state of Texas. With an established reputation for producing engineers, nurses and educators, PVAMU offers baccalaureate degrees in 50 academic majors, 37 Master's degrees and four doctoral degree programs through nine colleges and schools. A member of the Texas A&M University System, the University is dedicated to fulfilling its land-grant mission of achieving excellence in teaching, research and service. About the American Association for Cancer Research Journal Molecular Cancer Research DOI 10.1158/1541-7786.MCR-17-0397 Founded in 1907, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is the world's first and largest professional organization dedicated to advancing cancer research and its mission to prevent and cure cancer. AACR membership includes more than 37,000 laboratory, translational, and clinical researchers; population scientists; other health care professionals; and patient advocates residing in 108 countries. The AACR marshals the full spectrum of expertise of the cancer community to accelerate progress in the prevention, biology, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer by annually convening more than 30 conferences and educational workshops, the largest of which is the AACR Annual Meeting with more than 21,900 attendees. In addition, the AACR publishes eight prestigious, peer-reviewed scientific journals and a magazine for cancer survivors, patients, and their caregivers. The AACR funds meritorious research directly as well as in cooperation with numerous cancer organizations. As the Scientific Partner of Stand Up To Cancer, the AACR provides expert peer review, grants administration, and scientific oversight of team science and individual investigator grants in cancer research that have the potential for near-term patient benefit. The AACR actively communicates with legislators and other policymakers about the value of cancer research and related biomedical science in saving lives from cancer. For more information about the AACR, visit http://www.AACR.org For the first time, astronomers have observed a celestial event through both conventional telescopes and gravitational waves. The collision of two super-dense neutron stars just 120 million light-years from Earth was captured by both gravity wave observatories (Laser Interferometer Gravitational Observatory, LIGO in the U.S., and Virgo in Italy) and telescopes including the DLT40 survey based in Chile. The results are published Oct. 16 in a collection of papers in The Astrophysical Journal, Physical Review Letters, Nature and other journals. "This opens a new field," said Stefano Valenti, assistant professor of physics at UC Davis and a co-leader of the DLT40 observing team. "Now we can use optical data to understand observations from gravitational waves, and vice versa." LIGO and Virgo are based on Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, which holds that gravity can be understood as a wave passing through space-time like a ripple across a pond. The instruments look for gravitational waves by bouncing laser beams between mirrors miles apart: A tiny change in the distance between the mirrors could signal a passing gravitational wave. LIGO includes two instruments, in Livingston, Louisiana, and in Hanford, Washington. The DLT40 survey uses the PROMPT telescope in Chile to survey galaxies within 40 megaparsecs (about 130 million light-years) of Earth. LIGO caught the first observed gravity wave in September 2014, when the ripple from the collision of two massive black holes over a billion light-years away passed through the Earth. The new event is much smaller but much closer, just within the range of DLT40. Valenti's team was making a nightly survey for supernovae in nearby galaxies when they were notified that the gravitational observatories had detected an event. They directed the telescope to the area of sky LIGO and Virgo had identified, and found a flash of light that could be the signature of colliding neutron stars. Valenti, who was on shift at the time, took a second image and notified his colleagues. "It was so exciting, the most exciting week of my career," Valenti said. "We thought it was too good to be true, but then we saw it evolving into something we had never seen before and it was clear this was something new," said Professor David Sand, University of Arizona and principal investigator for the DLT40 project. Neutron stars densest objects known A neutron star is the densest known object in the universe, short of a black hole. They are thought to form when a star explodes as a supernova, and some of the remains collapse inward. They are enormously dense: Theoretically, a spoonful of neutron star-stuff would weigh billions of tons. Isolated neutron stars do not give off visible light, but they can emit pulses of radio waves and X-rays. However, theory predicts that colliding neutron stars should throw off gamma rays, X-rays and visible light as well as a powerful gravitational wave. The new event is very similar to the predictions, Valenti said. "Gamma ray bursts have been seen before, but this is the first proof from two different perspectives of a merger of two neutron stars," he said. The optical data helps astronomers to interpret the LIGO data and vice versa, Valenti said. The researchers hope to use the combination of gravitational and optical astronomy to find more such objects and learn more about them and their place in the universe. ### The DLT40 collaboration includes UC Davis, the University of Arizona and the University of North Carolina. DLT40 team shares credit for the optical observation with other groups involved in the LIGO Scientific Collaboration. LIGO is funded by the NSF, and operated by Caltech and MIT. More than 1,200 scientists and some 100 institutions from around the world participate in the effort through the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, which includes the GEO Collaboration and the Australian collaboration OzGrav. Additional partners are listed online. The Virgo collaboration consists of more than 280 physicists and engineers belonging to 20 different European institutions including: the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) in France; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN), Italy; Nikhef, The Netherlands; the MTA Wigner RCP in Hungary; the POLGRAW group in Poland; University of Valencia, Spain; and the European Gravitational Observatory, EGO, the laboratory hosting the Virgo detector near Pisa in Italy, funded by CNRS, INFN and Nikhef. Conservationists can be "cautiously optimistic" about the prospect of sustainable subsistence hunting by Amazonian communities - according to new research from the University of East Anglia. Human exploitation of natural resources is a key driver of global biodiversity loss. In tropical forests, overhunting has been implicated in widespread local species extinction and the creation of 'empty forests'. But a new study published today in PLOS ONE reveals that subsistence hunters from small communities in large areas of intact forest and with access to healthy fish stocks do not appear to be emptying their forests. This finding only rings true for smaller species and those less sensitive to hunting pressure, however. Numbers of large primates and other large mammals were still found to be depleted near to communities. Lead author Dr Mark Abrahams, from UEA's School of Environmental Sciences, said: "Understanding the impacts of subsistence hunting in tropical forests is crucial not only to safeguard the world's most biodiverse terrestrial ecosystems, but also to secure a sustainable future for forest-dependent communities." The research team used novel camera trapping and interview methods to study species in the Amazon. Working with 60 Amazonian communities in the Jurua and Uatuma regions of Amazonas, Brazil, they deployed 383 motion-activated camera traps and conducted 78 interviews with subsistence hunters. Hiking for miles through trackless forests to deploy cameras at varying distances from communities, the study sought to understand which species are depleted by hunting and where. Key findings: - Large-bodied species and species forming large groups, are depleted near Amazonian communities. - The biomass of the entire species assemblage is greatly reduced close to Amazonian towns. - Subsistence hunting did not empty the forest of game vertebrates in the study regions, which retain high forest cover, sources of alternative protein and low human population densities. The camera trap and interview data showed that large-bodied species and species forming large groups, such as white lipped peccaries, woolly monkeys and tapirs, are indeed depleted near to communities. Smaller species and those less sensitive to hunting pressure, did not show evidence of depletion near to communities. By contrast, the biomass of the entire species assemblage was greatly reduced close to towns. Dr Abrahams said: "Our results imply that conservationists can be cautiously optimistic about the prospect of sustainable subsistence hunting by Amazonian communities. Small communities, living in large areas of intact forest and with access to healthy stocks of fish, do not appear to be emptying their forests. "But this is clearly no excuse for complacency. Large primates and large ungulates, which are depleted by hunting, play vital ecological roles such as seed dispersal and are crucial to the health of the forest. "Also, areas where human populations are larger, fish stocks are less abundant and remaining forest cover is less extensive, are likely to experience a far more severe depletion of game animals." Prof Carlos Peres, also from UEA's School of Environmental Sciences, said: "Our analysis shows that the sustainability of protein acquisition in tropical forests is primarily governed by the spatial context of mortality sinks, human population density, and availability of alternative protein." ### 'Measuring local depletion of terrestrial game vertebrates by central-place hunters in rural Amazonia' is published in the journal PLOS ONE on 17 October, 2017. Funding came from UEA, the Darwin Initiative for the Survival of Species, the Explorers Club, Idea Wild, the Rufford Foundation and the Smithsonian Manson School of Conservation. Inland Revenue ups monitoring, 615 stores booked The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has taken action against 615 businesses for tax evasion as it intensifies market monitoring to prevent noncompliance. The challenge of providing a rapid response to environmental disasters as varied as flooding, drought, illegal logging and oil spills is the focus of two new projects in which the University of Oxford is a key partner. Using satellite imagery as a starting point, the aim of both projects is to create information for key decision makers in each country so that they are able to intervene as early as possible to protect people and the environment. The advantage of satellite data is that it can quickly identify small changes on the surface of the earth or sea that may be indicators of a larger problem in the making. A new 'hole' appearing in a forest can provide evidence of illegal logging, or a slight colour change in crops may show the early effects of drought. Combining data from these images with other data sources has the potential to create powerful information for governments and other actors. In Malaysia the project consortium will be working with government agencies to tackle flooding, oil pollution and illegal logging, all of which pose serious social and economic threats to Malaysian people. Monsoon flooding is a major annual issue, and the project aims to enable evacuation plans and flood defences to be activated much faster. It will also generate data that will help the authorities to quickly identify and track oil leaks from shipping which are causing irreparable damage to Malaysia's mangrove swamps, and to locate areas where illegal logging is taking place. In Ethiopia and Kenya the focus will be on creating an improved understanding of flood and drought risk, thus helping to build local people's resilience to these natural disasters and alleviate poverty. The intention is to use the same data to provide an emergency response where needed and to help develop longer-term strategies and solutions to drought and flood. In Kenya the project will also be generating tools to support the micro-insurance market, which is of key importance to farmers who have little or no access to insurance, by providing independent data about crop damage to verify farmers' claims. Satellite imagery is very useful for quickly generating independent data from a wide variety of events on the earth as they unfold. The difficulty is how to organise and process this vast quantity of data and to combine it with other data from the earth's surface so that it can be used to inform decision-makers in the most effective way. There may also be gaps in the data, or some of it may be unreliable. This is a field in which the Department of Engineering Science at Oxford University has considerable expertise. Researchers have already developed sophisticated machine learning tools that are capable of automating and processing large quantities of data from satellite images. The software can reconcile inconsistent data, filter out unreliable sources, and integrate information derived from other sources such as social media. It is even able to interpolate what may lie in the data 'black spots' between known observations, thus 'filling in the gaps' in the overall picture. In collaboration with several other partners with different types of expertise, Oxford will be bringing these tools to bear on the real-world problems identified in Malaysia, Ethiopia and Kenya, and working out how they can be applied most effectively in these different contexts. In the drought-response work in Ethiopia and Kenya, for example, Oxford engineers will be working with colleagues from the School of Geography and the Environment who specialise in hydrology. Together they will be investigating, with partners in business how to use machine learning to integrate data from satellite imagery of crops with information of both surface and subterranean water resources. Combining views from above and below in this way is more powerful than looking at each one individually, and will create a much more accurate early warning of drought. Dr Steven Reece, Oxford lead on machine learning, said: "Machine learning is having a positive impact on many walks of life, supporting evidence-based decision making across a wide range of vastly different application domains. Coupled with recent developments in data science and the availability of vast quantities of data, the time is right to deliver truly ground breaking and effective data centred solutions to key societal problems, including natural disasters. Our work will provide a more timely, accurate and detailed understanding of a disaster situation than is currently available." The two projects, Earth and Sea Observation System (Malaysia) and Earth Observation for Flood and Drought Resilience in Ethiopia and Kenya, will have a total investment of 21 million and have attracted UK Space Agency funding of over 10 million. Both projects are directly relevant to many of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. It is hoped that successful lessons from the projects can be applied in other areas of the world and to other environmental threats in the future. ### Malaysia project: Oxford team: Dr Steven Reece and Professor Steve Roberts, Engineering Science and Dr Simon Jackman, MPLS Division Project Consortium: Satellite Applications Catapult, Janus TCD, Stevenson Astrosat, Geocento, Ambiental, Plymouth Marine Laboratories, AutoNaut, Riskaware, Telespazio Vega, Earth Observation Inc., Leicester University, Sterling Geo, Oxford University, eOsphere International Partner: National Defence University of Malaysia (NDUM) Ethiopia/Kenya project: Oxford team: Dr Steven Reece and Professor Steve Roberts, Engineering Science, Professors Simon Dadson and Jim Hall and Dr Katrina Charles, School of Geography and the Environment and Dr Simon Jackman, MPLS Division. Project consortium: Airbus Defence and Space, Vivid Economics Ltd, Oxford University, Sayers and Partners LLP (SPL), GeoSAS Ltd International partners: Ethiopian Development Research Institute (EDRI), Kenyan local partners Notes to editors UK Space Agency press releases for these projects can be found at:> Malaysia: https://www.gov.uk/government/case-studies/satellite-applications-catapult-malaysia-environmental-monitoring and http://www.easos.my Ethiopia and Kenya: https://www.gov.uk/government/case-studies/airbus-africa-flood-draught-resilience Scientists have used cutting-edge DNA technology and museum samples collected over the past two centuries to reveal a new species of diving beetle living in streams around the Mediterranean. Meladema coriacea is among Europe's largest water beetles and has been considered common across the south of the continent and in North Africa since the early 19th century. But academics from the University of Plymouth and the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Barcelona have now shown what was long thought to be one common species is actually two. Using DNA sequence data and detailed analysis of morphology, they have described a new species - Meladema lepidoptera - which appears virtually identical to Meladema coriacea at first glance, but is very divergent genetically. Meladema lepidoptera is restricted to Corsica, Sardinia, adjacent small islands and some areas of the Italian mainland, where it apparently occurs to the exclusion of Meladema coriacea. David Bilton, Professor of Aquatic Biology at the University of Plymouth, led the study having first collected samples of the beetles in the late 1990s. He said: "We began studying the genetics of these beetles to try to understand how animals had colonised islands - we certainly weren't looking for, or expecting, a new species. Meladema are some of the largest and best-known water beetles in Europe, so we were very surprised with the genetic results suggesting that there were two species hiding under what everyone thought was only one." The new species was in fact 'hiding in plain sight', since a study of material from a number of European museums revealed specimens of the newly identified species had been collected as long ago as the mid-19th century. But without the genetic data, these had all been thought to belong to the one, common, species. Genetic data on more specimens, and a careful study of the appearance of the beetles themselves, has now allowed scientists to identify subtle, but consistent, ways in which the two species differ. This includes the precise sculpturing of their wing cases, with lepidoptera's appearing rather like the interlocking scales on a butterfly's wing, hence its name. Dating based on the DNA analyses suggests that Meladema originated approximately 14.4 million years ago, and that the current species appeared more recently, separating around 1.5 million years ago, perhaps as a result of climate and sea level changes during ice ages. Professor Bilton added: "This is only one new species, but it's been hiding amongst one of the largest, most obvious freshwater species in Europe, in an area we have supposedly explored pretty thoroughly. The fact that discoveries like ours are still possible emphasizes how little we know about the biodiversity of this planet, something which should be a major priority, particularly when so much of it is threatened by human activity. To effectively conserve biodiversity, we need to understand what's out there, because ignorance can lead to the wrong decisions being made about species and habitats." ### Wiring is frayed in more than just one region, according to a new international study by USC and other institutions Some 40 years since CT scans first revealed abnormalities in the brains of schizophrenia patients, international scientists say the disorder is a systemic disruption to the brain's entire communication system. The study, published in the Nature journal Molecular Psychiatry on Oct.17, sets the stage for future research on the debilitating mental illness that, according to the World Health Organization, affects more than 21 million people worldwide. It is the largest analysis of "white matter" (fatty brain tissue enabling neurons to talk to each other) differences in a psychiatric disorder to date and was made possible by a federal grant to the Keck School of Medicine of USC. The study displaces a theory that schizophrenia manifests due to wiring problems in only the prefrontal and temporal lobes. These front-facing areas of the brain are responsible for personality, decision-making and hearing perception. The issue is that frayed "Ethernet cords" are present everywhere, according to Sinead Kelly, co-lead author of the study. "We can definitively say for the first time that schizophrenia is a disorder where white matter wiring is frayed throughout the brain," said Kelly, a researcher at the USC Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute at the Keck School of Medicine of USC when the study was conducted. Keck School of Medicine is one of the world leaders in studying brain diseases. It is the hub of several large-scale global research efforts in psychiatry, neurology and genetics. "Our study will help improve the understanding of the mechanisms behind schizophrenia, a mental illness that -- left untreated -- often leads to unemployment, homelessness, substance abuse and even suicide," said Kelly, who is now is a postdoctoral research fellow at the Harvard Medical School. "These findings could lead to the identification of biomarkers that enable researchers to test patients' response to schizophrenia treatment." An estimated 26 percent of homeless adults staying in shelter homes in America live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Although the researchers found that frayed communication cords were present throughout the brains of people with schizophrenia, the poorly insulated wiring was most evident in the corpus callosum, which allows for communication between the brain hemispheres and in the frontal portion of the corona radiata, a key structure for information processing. Schizophrenia has a biological effect on the entire brain Current medical treatment for schizophrenia addresses only symptoms because the causes of the disease are still unknown. Many patients are asked to take antipsychotic drugs for the rest of their lives. Some individuals experience side effects such as significant weight gain, tremors, emotional numbing or extreme drowsiness. Previous studies did not always point to the same brain regions. Scientists need to come to a consensus before they can begin looking for answers. To do that, they need to aggregate and analyze global brain scan data, said Neda Jahanshad, co-lead author of the study and assistant professor of neurology at the Imaging Genetics Center within the USC Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute. "Without this study, future research could have been misdirected," Jahanshad said. "Rather than looking for genes that affect a certain 'stretch of wiring,' scientists will now look for genes that affect the brain's entire communication infrastructure. "We're showing that just studying a single brain region to try to find out what causes schizophrenia is not a good approach. The effect is global. Focusing on a certain part of the brain where you think that effect will be is not going to give you the whole story." Largest-ever big data study on schizophrenia Scientists analyzed the data of 1,963 people with schizophrenia and 2,359 healthy controls from Australia, Asia, Europe, South Africa and North America. Earlier studies typically included up to a hundred people with schizophrenia, Jahanshad said. The big data project was integrated from 29 different international studies by the ENIGMA (Enhancing Neuro Imaging Genetics through Meta Analysis) network, a global consortium headed by Paul Thompson at the Keck School of Medicine. ENIGMA has published the largest neuroimaging studies of autism, major depression and bipolar disorder using brain scans of more than 20,000 people, said Thompson, associate director of the Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute. The researchers examined data from diffusion tensor imaging, a form of MRI that measures the movement of water molecules in the white matter of the brain. These scans allow scientists to locate problem areas in the brain's normally insulated communication system. The study paves the path for more focused scientific inquiry. A next step could be to seek what causes these abnormalities in white matter. Schizophrenia is partly hereditary, so perhaps specific genes promote the disorder via slight alterations in brain wiring, Kelly said. USC has researchers across disciplines seeking to prevent or treat neurological and psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy. ### Gary Donohoe from the National University of Ireland Galway, Andrew Zalesky from the University of Melbourne in Australia, Annerine Roos from Stellenbosch University in South Africa, Zora Kikinis from Harvard Medical School and Ryota Hashimoto from Osaka University in Japan are among the 160 scientists from 27 institutions and hospitals who contributed to this study. The study was funded by private and federal agencies worldwide, including an $11 million grant from the NIH Big Data to Knowledge initiative given to Thompson and colleagues (U54EB020403). Many individuals and institutions also donated their time and data to this research effort. Digital archivists from collaborate with classicists from The University of Texas at Austin to improve database preservation methods When Deborah Beck was preparing her book, Speech Presentation in Homeric Epic, her publisher suggested she make the database she had started in 2008 -- a searchable catalogue of features from every speech in the Homeric poems -- available to the public as a web application and companion resource. Since the application went live in 2013, more than 5,000 researchers have used it to parse the thousands of speeches found in the Iliad and the Odyssey and to explore different connections from those Beck investigated in her book. "I get emails from people around the world expressing their appreciation for the database," said Beck, an associate professor of Classics at The University of Texas at Austin. "I heard in June from a student in Mexico who used the application to write his bachelor's thesis." However, as new web and database capabilities became available, Beck was finding it challenging to update the application, which was developed using the technologies from the 2000s. Perhaps more worryingly, as browsers change and university web-servers retire, there was a chance that in the future the database might be lost to the sands of time. "As a classicist, the very long-term accessibility of texts is a fundamental prerequisite of our entire discipline," Beck explained. "I can pick up a manuscript from 1,000 years ago and if I know how to read the handwriting, that resource is still available to me. However, I don't have the slightest idea what the availability of resources that are currently digital will look like in 100 years." Papers she wrote as an undergraduate are inaccessible because the writing programs and file formats she used are now obsolete. "I don't want that to happen to projects that I'm connected to." She asked for assistance from the University's General Libraries, who suggested she talk to researchers from the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) with expertise in digital archiving and preservation. Together, they set about developing a new way to preserve digital humanities databases. At the 2017 ACM/IEEE Joint Conference on Digital Libraries (JCDL), Beck along with Weijia Xu, a research scientist at TACC, Maria Esteva, a digital archivist at TACC, and Yi-Hsuan Hsieh, a Ph.D. computer science student at UT Austin supported by TACC's Science & Technology Affiliates for Research (STAR) Scholars Program, presented a solution that preserves Beck's database of Homeric speeches, including the multivariate connections among the texts and the insights Beck developed over years of study. "The value of research data not only resides in its content but in how it is made available to users," said Esteva. "Research data is often presented interactively through a web application, the design of which is often the result of years of work by researchers. Therefore, preserving the data and the application's functionalities becomes equally important." The preservation strategy they developed allows scholars to re-launch the database application in a variety of environments -- from individual computers, to virtual machines, to future web servers -- without compromising its interactive features. It preserves the data separately from the interactive application, so scholars can reuse it in other technical and functional contexts. The process exploits aspects of emulation and virtualization - techniques applied in business and technology -- but goes beyond these approaches. It dissociates the web code from the data and re-deploys the entire application on different platforms, including virtual machines. The process has four stages: - extracting the data and application code; - identifying dependencies (where one object relies on a function of another object) and decoupling the application from the data; - redeploying the application and validating its results; and - distributing the application to end users. Using this method, a researcher can reboot the application at a later date by starting up a virtual machine image that contains the fully functional application. This approach fits well with the evolving nature of digital preservation and with the requirements for data reuse, the researchers say. For Beck, the project provided an avenue to preserve the research she had done over many years. For Yi-Hsuan Hsieh, it presented an opportunity to apply the computer science principles she is learning in her graduate program to a mature project of value to the classics community. Her main task on the project was to test a dependency detection algorithm that identifies the relations between the web code and the libraries required to redeploy and run the application. "It was exciting to gather experts' ideas from different fields," Hsieh said. "Dr. Beck gave us the motivation to preserve humanity digital projects. Dr. Esteva provided the requirements and goals of digital preservation and Dr. Xu gave ideas about automating the process of identifying dependencies from the web code to significantly reduce human efforts in preserving a web application," she said. The team is currently working on further automating the stages of dependency detection to make the strategy generalizable for other projects and hosting environments. As with any digital preservation method, one must still monitor and update the project occasionally. However, the risk of incompatibility is lower because updates to new web technologies or hosting services can be carried out at any point in a project's lifecycle from the application code and the data. "I come at this project from the perspective of long-term preservation, but the main thing that I came to understand over the course of the work is that having an interactive, accessible digital component to your research means that it reaches more people and it reaches them in different ways," Beck said. "That to me is really important and having a preservation strategy in place that makes it achievable over a longer period of time and with a wider variety of users is critical." ### For the first time in history, Wits researchers have witnessed electromagnetic signals that are associated with the gravitational wave emission from the coalescence of two massive neutron stars. The HESS telescope in Namibia Working with data from the High Energy Spectroscopic System (H.E.S.S) telescope in Namibia, as well as with data from the AGILE Italian satellite, Professor Sergio Colafrancesco and his Team from the School of Physics at the University of the Witwatersrand, complemented a large variety of electromagnetic (e.m.) observations that were able to record signals from the same neutron star merger event. These e.m. signals range from the detection of a gamma-ray burst about 2 seconds after the gravitational wave event detected by Ligo-Virgo, over near-infrared, optical and UV emission from decay of radioactive nuclei created in the resulting kilonova, to X-ray and radio emissions detected several days and weeks after the event. This first and extremely successful observation campaign is marking the beginning of truly Multi-Messenger Astrophysics. The collision of the stars was such a massive event, that it emitted in gravitational waves the energy equal to three solar masses (three times the mass of the Sun), that was picked up by both the Ligo and Virgo Gravitational Wave interferometers. This event was announced at an international media conference in Washington DC today (Monday, 16 October, 4pm SA time). "The Virgo and Ligo teams picked up the signals of the gravitational waves, and triggered the pointing of our telescopes in the direction in which they detected it. We narrowed down the area and pinpointed the source of the gravitational wave event to the collision of the two neutron stars," says Colafrancesco. HESS observation While the H.E.S.S telescope was trained on the event, it followed up a gamma ray burst in the same part of the sky, which exploded only two seconds after the merging of the two neutron stars. "This is the first time ever that an astronomical event such as a gamma ray burst, and other relative electromagnetic signals, was observed alongside an event large enough to emit gravitational waves," says Colafrancesco. Gamma ray burst are explosions in distant galaxies that release extremely high amounts of energy. They are the brightest electromagnetic events known to occur in the universe, and are very rare, with only a few occurring in a galaxy every million years. "It was previously believed that gamma ray bursts might occur when a high mass star collapses to form a neutron star or a black hole, or during the merger of two binary neutron stars - as in this case - but now, for the first time, we have the actual evidence for it," says Colafrancesco. Gravitational waves are only emitted by as massive objects in the universe interact with each other, such as black holes or neutron stars that merge. The collision and merging of the two neutron stars was observed (by Ligo in Hanford, Washington in the USA, and in Livingston, Louisiana in the USA, and by Virgo, in Cascina, Italy) on 14 August 2017. The observation was named GW170817. A neutron star is a very compact star, that is not as compact as a black hole, but their merger might result in a black hole. In the case of the GW170817 event, the two neutron stars, with respective masses in the range 0.86 to 2.26 times the mass of the Sun merged into a single star with a mass of about 2.82 times that of the Sun. In this coalescence event, an amount of energy equal to about 0.3 times the mass of the Sun was emitted in form of gravitational waves. This energy was picked up by the three advanced gravitational wave laser interferometers, located thousands of kilometres away from each other when the passage of the gravitational wave provides an oscillation of the lengths of their two arms, at the same frequency of the incoming gravitational wave. This displacement effect is very tiny: as an example, the gravitational wave generated by the merging of two neutron stars in a galaxy close to ours will stretch the distance Earth-Sun (150 million of km) by the size of an atom. "This is the start of new Multi-Messenger Astronomy, where various techniques such as the gravitational wave laser interferometers - which is a displacement measuring tool - and astronomical techniques such as telescopes sensitive to e.m. radiation are used together to study one single event," says Colafrancesco. "Especially when the event is so big that it emits gravitational waves." Scientists from over 70 observatories involved in the observation gathered large amounts of valuable data from the event, including learning what the source of the gravitational waves was. They also learned how an event that emits gravitational waves relates to other kinds of radiation, such as gamma rays, infrared radiation and radio waves, emitted from space. "We now know for certain that an event associated with gravitational waves is related to the emission of electromagnetic radiation, as in a gamma ray burst," says Colafrancesco. ### Following domestication, dogs should be more tolerant and cooperative with conspecifics and humans compared to wolves. This is at least often hypothesized. But looking at wolves and dogs in more naturalistic living conditions, however, speaks for a more cooperative behavior of wolves. Researchers at the Messerli Research Institute at Vetmeduni Vienna have now shown that the wild ancestors are actually excelling their domesticated relatives in teamwork. In an experimental approach dogs failed to cooperatively pull the two ends of a rope at the same time to obtain a piece of food. The wolves, on the other hand, showed perfect teamwork. They even waited for a partner to come before pulling the rope ends together for food. The study was published in PNAS. Dogs were domesticated so that man had a perfect companion at his side. Therefore, a lot of importance has been attached to properties such as tolerance and cooperative behavior. In line with this there are many hypotheses that dogs have also become more tolerant and co-operative with conspecifics compared to wolves. But The socio-ecological background of wolves, shows that they depend on cooperation for many aspects of their life from hunting to pup rearing, speaking against these theories. Researchers from the Wolf Science Center of the Vetmeduni Vienna now tested with a so-called "loose-string" test setup, whether the domesticated dog really is the better team player. The study showed that wolves can perfectly work together, if they need to co-operate for a piece of food. Similarly raised and kept dogs - although having the same interest in the task - in contrast were not able to co-operate and failed the test. Teams of two pulling together In order to determine whether wolves or dogs can co-operate better, the researchers grouped dogs and wolves, which were raised and held under equal conditions, into different dyads. Subsequently, these teams of two had to pull the two ends of a rope at the same time in order to move a feeding tray towards them. "In the loose-string paradigm, a rope is drawn through eyelets in a tray. It is not fixed and can be removed if two animals do not pull at both ends at the same time. If for example one animal prevents a conspecific from getting close to the rope and pulls alone, it will drag the rope out of the device and the food will remain unattainable", explains first author Sarah Marshall-Pescini. Teamwork is an easier task for wolves and not for dogs First the different dyads had to solve a spontaneous condition. They were not specially prepared for the test, but should, on their own initiative, understand the task over several attempts. Five of the seven wolf-teams managed to cooperatively pull at the same time. Regarding the dogs, only one out of eight dyads was able to solve the task. In a second test, four wolf and six dog dyads were first trained on the string pulling apparatus and then had six attempts to properly work out the task. Again the wolves showed the better teamwork. Three of the four wolf dyads could repeatedly pull the tray at the same time. In the dogs, there were just two dyads solving the problem once. The successful wolves were even able to manage more difficult tasks. If they started the experiment individually, they were waiting for the partner before they pulled the rope. Even if there were two separate apparatuses, the animals were able to coordinate and to solve both tasks one after the other. An important aspect, however, was the rank of the animals in the pack. Animals closer in rank worked better as a team compared to dyads where one animals was much higher in rank than the other. Being a better team player was not necessarily selected for during domestication The result of this experiment clearly shows that the socio-ecological background of wolves gives them an advantage when it comes to teamwork. "Wolves generally have a stronger exploratory urge to investigate things. However, they clearly outperformed the dogs when co-operating was the only chance for success "says lastauthor Friederike Range. In nature, they also hunt and raise their pups together. Free-ranging dogs, on the other hand, take care of their offspring on their own, and also individually scavange for food. The tendency to co-operatively solve a problem seems more likely to be in the blood of the wolves than being strengthened by domestication. The hypotheses about the positive influence of domestication on tolerance and co-operation with conspecifics should be called into question, according to Marshall-Pescini and Range. "Studies with pet dogs showed that dogs are also able to work well together. However, it is likely that in this case education by owners plays a decisive role. Whoever keeps several dogs at home will educate them in such a way that they tolerate each other facilitating cooperation.Because of this is was essential to test wolves and dogs raised in the same way that in a pack environment" the two researchers said. ### Service: The article The importance of a species' socio-ecology: Wolves outperform dogs in a conspecific cooperation task" by Sarah Marshall-Pescini, Jonas F.L. Schwarz, Inga Kostelnik, Zsofia Viranyi and Friederike Range is published in PNAS. http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2017/10/11/1709027114.full About the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna The University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna in Austria is one of the leading academic and research institutions in the field of Veterinary Sciences in Europe. About 1,300 employees and 2,300 students work on the campus in the north of Vienna which also houses five university clinics and various research sites. Outside of Vienna the university operates Teaching and Research Farms. The Vetmeduni Vienna plays in the global top league: in 2017, it occupies the excellent place 8 in the world-wide Shanghai university veterinary in the subject "Veterinary Science". http://www.vetmeduni.ac.at About Messerli Research Institute The Messerli Research Institute was founded in 2010 with support from the Messerli Foundation (Sorenberg, Switzerland) under the management of the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna in cooperation with the Medical University of Vienna and the University of Vienna. The research is devoted to the interaction between humans and animals, as well as its theoretical principles in animal cognition and behavior, comparative medicine and ethics. Its work is characterized by its broad interdisciplinary approach (biology, human medicine, veterinary medicine, philosophy, psychology, law) and strong international focus. http://www.vetmeduni.ac.at/en/messerli/ Scientific Contact: Sarah Marshall-Pescini Unit of Comparative Cognition Messerli Research Institute University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna (Vetmeduni Vienna) T 39-3479862168 sarah.marshall@vetmeduni.ac.at and Friederike Range Unit of Comparative Cognition Messerli Research Institute University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna (Vetmeduni Vienna) T 43-1-25077-2685 friederike.range@vetmeduni.ac.at An international research team, including physicists from the Weizmann Institute of Science, has for the first time succeeded in observing a merger of two colliding neutron stars. The merger was simultaneously picked up by three detectors built for this purpose: the two belonging to the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, or LIGO, in the United States, and the Virgo detector in Italy. The observation may help determine how such heavy elements as uranium, iodine and gold were formed and enhance our understanding of some of the most violent events in the history of the universe. The merger was observed on August 17 and announced to the public on October 16. Analysis of the observations is being published in a number of leading scientific journals, including the Astrophysical Journal, Nature and Science. Two years ago, in September 2015, the LIGO detectors had already produced a sensational first: They had enabled scientists to observe gravitational waves for the very first time. Those waves, predicted by Albert Einstein a hundred years earlier, had come from a collision between two massive black holes and had taken 1.3 billion years to reach Earth. In the wake of the finding, the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded earlier this month "for decisive contributions to the LIGO detector and the observation of gravitational waves." The newly detected collision and merger of two neutron stars had occurred relatively "recently": Radiation from the merger had taken "only" about 100 million years to arrive on Earth. But most important, it has provided scientists with more information than the black hole collision. "When black holes collide, the only thing we can detect is gravitational waves, everything else is swallowed inside," says Prof. Avishay Gal-Yam of Weizmann's Particle Physics and Astrophysics Department. "But neutron stars are relatively lighter than black holes, so when they collide and merge, a small part of their mass and radiation does escape and can be detected along with gravitational waves." As opposed to these waves, which are sensed by detectors for a tiny fraction of a second, the rest of the radiation from the neutron star collision glowed for several days. This came in more conventional forms, including X, gamma, ultraviolet and infrared rays, as well as visible light. "Numerous telescopes had spotted this radiation as a new dot in the sky, but at first we weren't sure this dot was the star collision picked up by LIGO and Virgo," says Prof. Eran Ofek, also of Weizmann's Particle Physics and Astrophysics Department. Scientists around the world, including Prof. Ofek's team at the Weizmann Institute, analyzed the data from the collision, ultimately confirming that the dot was indeed the optical signature - that is, the optically observable event - of the neutron star merger picked up by the detectors. In particular, Ofek and other scientists showed that the radiation had, in all likelihood, come from a neutron star merger. The researchers established that the emitted matter amounted to about a hundredth the mass of the sun, and that this matter moved at about a quarter of the speed of light. "It's the first time that such a large mass has been shown to move at such an enormous speed," Ofek says. Spectroscopic analysis of the radiation, performed by Gal-Yam and other scientists, supplied evidence that the merger had resulted in the formation of heavy elements. Researchers have a fairly good idea of how light elements had been formed, but the origin of the heavy elements had long been a mystery. One theory had suggested that a plausible source is neutron star mergers: These stars contain so many neutrons in condensed form that a star collision, causing a rapid bombardment of these neutrons against one another, could create favorable conditions for the formation of the neutron-rich nuclei characteristic of the heavy elements. "This theoretical prediction had been made at least half a century ago, and now we finally have evidence that this might indeed have been the case," Gal-Yam says. "Every element in nature emits and absorbs light in a different part of the spectrum, and that's how we could tell which elements had emitted the detected radiation." Among the heavy elements identified by the scientists were such exotic ones as tellurium, but also such more common ones as cesium and iodine. "Our findings suggest, among other things, that every atom of iodine on Earth, including the iodine you put on your wound, had arrived here in the distant past from a merger of neutron stars," Gal-Yam says. He adds that such extremely heavy elements as gold and uranium are also thought to have been created in neutron star mergers, but for reasons that are not yet understood, they were not identified in the current merger. Ofek and Gal-Yam are part of several large scientific collaborations analyzing the data from the neutron star merger. Further analysis of the data promises to shed additional light on the origins of heavy elements and provide answers to other unresolved questions about the nature of gravity and the explosive deaths of stars. ### Prof. Avishay Gal Yam's research is supported by the Benoziyo Endowment Fund for the Advancement of Science; the Yeda-Sela Center for Basic Research; the Deloro Institute for Advanced Research in Space and Optics; and Paul and Tina Gardner. Prof. Gal-Yam is the recipient of the Helen and Martin Kimmel Award for Innovative Investigation. The Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel, is one of the world's top-ranking multidisciplinary research institutions. Noted for its wide-ranging exploration of the natural and exact sciences, the Institute is home to scientists, students, technicians and supporting staff. Institute research efforts include the search for new ways of fighting disease and hunger, examining leading questions in mathematics and computer science, probing the physics of matter and the universe, creating novel materials and developing new strategies for protecting the environment. Researchers have shown that genetic diversity plays a key role in enabling drug resistance to evolve. Scientists at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and the Institute for Research on Cancer and Ageing of Nice in France, show that high genetic diversity can prime new mutations that cause drug resistance. The study published today (17 October) in Cell Reports has implications for our understanding of the evolution of resistance to antimicrobial and anticancer drugs. The World Health Organisation classes antimicrobial resistance as one of the biggest threats to global health today. Currently 700,000 deaths a year worldwide*, with 25,000 of those in the EU and 23,000 in the USA are linked to antimicrobial resistance. These figures are projected** to rise to 10 million deaths a year by 2050 if nothing is done to tackle the problem. Equally, cancer is linked to 8.2 million annual deaths worldwide, with chemotherapy resistance a major limitation to treatment. Previous studies had linked high genetic diversity within bacterial infections or in cancers with poor outcomes for patients treated with antimicrobial or chemotherapy drugs. Researchers in this study used budding yeast, creating populations of cells with more than 10 million different randomised genomes, to investigate how genetic diversity affected resistance. They evolved these to grow in antimicrobial drugs over 4 weeks and then studied the sensitive and resistant yeast cells. Dr Ignacio Vazquez-Garcia, the first author from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and University of Cambridge, said: "We found that the degree of diversity within the cell population - known as clonal heterogeneity - played a major role in the acquisition of antimicrobial resistance. By sequencing the genomes of sensitive and resistant cells we showed that some cells were pre-adapted, or primed, while other cells acquired new mutations to gain resistance." By then crossing the evolved strains, the researchers were able to investigate the complex evolutionary processes involved in developing resistance. They were able to see not only which mutations drove resistance - called driver mutations - but also how the background mutations affected these. They discovered two types of driver mutations. Cells with weak driver mutations needed other background mutations to grow well in antimicrobial drugs, however cells with strong driver mutations developed resistance to drugs regardless of the genetic background. Professor Gianni Liti, a senior author on the paper from the Institute for Research on Cancer and Ageing, Nice, said: "We were able to study the evolution in time by combining genome sequences of the cell populations and tracking the growth characteristics of the yeast cells. We found that the genetic background had a major influence on whether or not weaker mutations would confer drug resistance, and in these cases many different cells adapted in a wave. However, with any genetic background, cells with strong driver mutations could "leapfrog" and outcompete other cells growing in the drugs." Professor Ville Mustonen, Senior author from the University of Helsinki and previously at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, said: "Our study helps understand the evolution of drug resistance, and has implications not just for yeast, but also for bacteria and cancer. Whilst further study is needed, we are building evidence to show that genetic diversity in a bacterial infection or in a tumour being treated could lay the foundation for resistance to the therapy and affect how quickly resistance develops." ### Contact details: Dr Samantha Wynne, Media Officer Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK Tel +44 (0)1223 492368 Email press.office@sanger.ac.uk Notes to editors: These figures on antimicrobial resistance have been released by the CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/drugresistance/index.html) and as part of a joint report** by the UK Government and the Wellcome Trust. Further figures on cancer management are available from the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organisation. Participating Centres: Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, Centre for Mathematical Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK Universite Cote d'Azur, Institute for Research on Cancer and Ageing of Nice, CNRS UMR 7284, INSERM U1081, Nice, France Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden Centre for Integrative Genetics, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, As, Norway Selected Websites: About the University of Cambridge The mission of the University of Cambridge is to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning and research at the highest international levels of excellence. To date, 98 affiliates of the University have won the Nobel Prize. Founded in 1209, the University comprises 31 autonomous Colleges, which admit undergraduates and provide small-group tuition, and 150 departments, faculties and institutions. Cambridge is a global university. Its 19,000 student body includes 3,700 international students from 120 countries. Cambridge researchers collaborate with colleagues worldwide, and the University has established larger-scale partnerships in Asia, Africa and America. The University sits at the heart of one of the world's largest technology clusters. The 'Cambridge Phenomenon' has created 1,500 hi-tech companies, 14 of them valued at over US$1 billion and two at over US$10 billion. Cambridge promotes the interface between academia and business, and has a global reputation for innovation. http://www.cam.ac.uk Institute for Research on Cancer and Ageing, in Nice, France IRCAN is an international institute attracting the talent, the competence and the knowhow of high level young and senior group leaders. The IRCAN's main line of research is aimed at unravelling the pathways shared between cancer and ageing, both at the basic and translational level. The IRCAN is located at the School of Medicine of Nice and is fully supported by the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, the INSERM (U1081), the CNRS (UMR7284), the anti-cancer center Centre Antoine Lacassagne and the Nice University Hospital. http://www.ircan.org Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute is one of the world's leading genome centres. Through its ability to conduct research at scale, it is able to engage in bold and long-term exploratory projects that are designed to influence and empower medical science globally. Institute research findings, generated through its own research programmes and through its leading role in international consortia, are being used to develop new diagnostics and treatments for human disease. http://www.sanger.ac.uk Wellcome Wellcome exists to improve health for everyone by helping great ideas to thrive. We're a global charitable foundation, both politically and financially independent. We support scientists and researchers, take on big problems, fuel imaginations and spark debate. http://www.wellcome.ac.uk A new study linking paleoclimatology -- the reconstruction of past global climates -- with historical analysis by researchers at Yale and other institutions shows a link between environmental stress and its impact on the economy, political stability, and war-fighting capacity of ancient Egypt. The team of researchers examined the hydroclimatic and societal impacts in Egypt of a sequence of tropical and high-latitude volcanic eruptions spanning the past 2,500 years, as known from modern ice-core records. The team focused on the Ptolemaic dynasty of ancient Egypt (305-30 B.C.E.) -- a state formed in the aftermath of the campaigns of Alexander the Great, and famed for rulers such as Cleopatra -- as well as material and cultural achievements including the great Library and Lighthouse of Alexandria. Using an interdisciplinary approach that combined evidence from climate modelling of large 20th-century eruptions, annual measurements of Nile summer flood heights from the Islamic Nilometer -- the longest-known human record of environmental variability -- between 622 and 1902, as well as descriptions of Nile flood quality in ancient papyri and inscriptions from the Ptolemaic era, the authors show how large volcanic eruptions impacted on Nile river flow, reducing the height of the agriculturally-critical summer flood. The findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, show that integrating evidence from historical writings with paleoclimate data can advance both our understanding of how the climate system functions, and how climatic changes impacted past human societies. "Ancient Egyptians depended almost exclusively on Nile summer flooding brought by the summer monsoon in east Africa to grow their crops. In years influenced by volcanic eruptions, Nile flooding was generally diminished, leading to social stress that could trigger unrest and have other political and economic consequences," says Joseph Manning, lead author on the paper and the William K. & Marilyn Milton Simpson Professor of History and Classics at Yale. The reason for reduced flooding of the Nile is because volcanic eruptions can disrupt the climate by injecting sulfurous gases into the stratosphere, says Francis Ludlow, the study's corresponding author. Ludlow is a climate historian who began collaborating with Manning as a postdoctoral fellow at Yale, and is now based in history in Trinity College, Dublin. These gases react to form aerosols that remain in the atmosphere in decreasing concentrations for one or two years, reflecting incoming solar radiation back to space. These volcanic aerosols can influence global hydroclimate. The reduction in surface temperatures can lead to reduced evaporation over waterbodies, and hence lessen rainfall. If the aerosols are dispersed primarily in the Northern Hemisphere, the greater cooling in this hemisphere can also diminish the summertime heating that drives the northward migration of monsoon winds over Africa up to the Ethiopian highlands where the Blue Nile is supplied with its summer floodwaters. Because the Ptolemaic era is one of ancient Egypt's most well-documented periods, the dates of major political events are known with some confidence, note the researchers, adding that what is often less clear from the ancient writings is what specific factors triggered events like revolts. The researchers were able to show a recurring close timing between such events and the dates of major volcanic eruptions. Knowledge of the historical context is essential to fully understanding how shocks from diminished Nile flooding acted to trigger revolts and constrain Ptolemaic war making, say the researchers, explaining that the shocks from poor Nile flooding would have occurred against a background of multiple socioeconomic and political difficulties that would have compounded the impacts of Nile variability. "Egypt and the Nile are very sensitive instruments for climate change, and Egypt provides a unique historical laboratory in which to study social vulnerability and response to abrupt volcanic shocks," says Manning. "Nile flood suppression from historical eruptions has been little studied, despite well documented Nile failures with severe social impacts coinciding with eruptions in 939, in 1783-1784 in Iceland, and 1912 in Alaska," he adds. "With volcanic eruption dates fixed precisely in time, we can see society in motion around them. This is the first time for ancient history that we can begin to talk about a dynamic understanding of society," says Manning. According to Manning, this research not only alters the perception of climatic changes on various scales, from short-term shocks to slower-moving, long-term changes, but it is also revolutionizing the understanding of human societies and how the forces of nature shaped them in the past. "The study is of particular importance for the current debate about climate change," says Manning. "It is very rare in science and history to have such strong and detailed evidence documenting how societies responded to climatic shocks in the past," says Jennifer Marlon, research scientist in the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, and a co-author on the study. The study reflects a significant advance in the integration of research among scientists and historians, and points to the need for more interdisciplinary scholarship to better document and analyze how humans have related and responded to past environmental changes, says Marlon. The researchers note that the study provides historical context for what is happening today and what may happen in the future and demonstrates that there is need for further investigation into the effects of climate change on modern societies worldwide. "There hasn't been a large eruption affecting the global climate system since Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991," says Manning. "We are living in a period where we are fairly quiescent in terms of large volcanic eruptions that are affecting climate. A lot of volcanoes erupt each year but they are not affecting the climate system on the scale of some past eruptions. Sooner or later we will experience a large volcanic eruption, and perhaps a cluster of them, that will act to exacerbate drought in sensitive parts of the world." ### Other authors on the study are Alexander R. Stine, San Francisco State University; William R. Boos, University of California-Berkeley; and Michael Sigl, Paul Scherrer Institute. Madhes parties, NC to join forces against left bloc The Nepali Congress and two Madhes-based partiesRastriya Janata Party, Nepal and the Sanghiya Samajbadi Forum-Nepalhave set three broader principles to forge an electoral alliance in the upcoming federal and provincial elections. Maoist Centre to quit govt only if elections ensured The ruling CPN (Maoist Centre) has said that the party will quit the government only if the conduction of elections are ensured in stipulated dates. Place Your Advert Register or sign in to advertise your job The UKs Global Food Security programme is funding 4.9 million of research hoping to increase resilience and sustainability of the UK food system. Five projects have been awarded funding with the hope to ensure greater resilience of the UKs food supply from global shocks, environmental and demographic changes, and threats posed by pests and diseases. The projects bring together researchers and food producers, manufacturers and retailers working in several areas; from understanding the role of phosphorus as a key nutrient in crop and livestock production to better understanding of how different landscapes affect crop pollinating insects. Other research topics seek to understand the complex links between dairy production, animal health, and the natural ecosystems upon which they depend. The resilience of beef and sheep production in remote, upland regions of Northern England and Scotland will also be looked at, and sustainable economic and ecological grazing, along with the effectiveness of innovative farm management. Future security The UKs Global Food Security programme awarded 7.2 million worth of research in August 2016 with projects including research into protecting crops from pests and increasing tolerance to adverse weather conditions. Science Minister Jo Johnson said: The Global Food Security programme is an excellent example of interdisciplinary research, bringing together a range of expertise across the biological, environmental and social sciences to address the many uncertainties facing the UKs food system. Research is a vital part of our Industrial Strategy, and by increasing funding in this area we are helping ensure the future security of the UK food sector, while reinforcing our position as a world leader in science and innovation. The research programme was driven forward by the UKs Global Food Security programme, with funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and Scottish government. Funded projects The role of Phosphorus in the resilience and sustainability of the UK food system Lead PI: Professor Paul Withers, Bangor University, 1.51 million Modelling Landscapes for Resilient Pollination Services in the UK Lead PI: Professor Simon Potts, University of Reading, 592,000 Resilient dairy: socio-technical innovation for dairy resilience and sustainability Lead PI: Professor Mark Reed, Newcastle University, 1.49 million Sustainable economic and ecological grazing systems learning from innovative practitioners Lead PI: Dr Lisa Norton, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, 621,000 The role of livestock in food system resilience in remote, upland regions Lead PI: Dr Ann Bruce, The University of Edinburgh, 686,000 An angry farmer has been filmed shouting at hunt saboteurs ordering them to "get off my land". The clip which is believed to be filmed during a hunt in Ratcliffe Culey, Leicestershire on Saturday (October 14) shows a farmer, dressed in green overalls, speeding up to three West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs on a quad bike. The West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs were recording evidence of a suspected hunt on the land. In the footage, the farmer demands the activists leave, telling the cameramen they are on private property. The farmer then jumps off his quad bike before pushing one of the saboteurs into a ditch, and then turning on the other two protesters. The farmer tells the men, who are trespassing on his land: You are on private property. I can do what I want. The West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs shared an account of the video on its Facebook page. 'Grateful' Leicestershire Police have issued a statement on its Twitter page, saying: "Officers are investigating an allegation of assault after a man sustained minor injuries in Ratcliffe Culey, Leicestershire, at the weekend. "A report was made at 12.31pm on Saturday October 14 which related to the victim having sustained injury as a result of being involved in a collision with a quad bike." In a statement, Atherstone Hunt said: The Atherstone met at the Kennels this morning (Saturday) with a field of 50 riders. Both jumping and non-jumping people were again catered for. Hounds hunted the trails well and everyone had a lovely morning. We understand that one of our landowners requested that hunt saboteurs leave his land on which they were trespassing and after they refused he took steps to remove them. Such action is taken independently of the Atherstone Hunt and not regulated by us. We remain extremely grateful to our farmers and landowners for their continued support in allowing us to cross their land. The NFU and AHDB are embarking on a series of Brexit Roadshows across the country to meet farmers to discuss the political and economic outlook for the industry post-Brexit. Ahead of a future consultation on an Agriculture Bill, the roadshows will continue the sectors conversation with farmers about agriculture after Brexit. The first of 18 meetings to take place over the next few weeks will be held at the East of England Agricultural Society on Wednesday (Oct 18). NFU chief EU exit and international trade adviser Gail Soutar said: We are engaged in every aspect of the negotiations affecting farming and its vital we continue developing our policy alongside our members. During the meetings the NFU Brexit team will present the organisations latest thinking on the development of a domestic agriculture policy aimed at helping farmers to mitigate volatility, enhance productivity and to deliver environmental benefits post-CAP. Well also cover transitional arrangements required to ensure continuity and certainty for farmers when we leave the EU as well as giving members an update on the NFUs trade, regulation and labour policy priorities. 'Call to action' AHDB senior analyst Sarah Baker said the roadshows are a "call to action" for farmers to get fit for the future. The top 25% of performers in all sectors, regardless of size, will remain viable in all our post-Brexit scenarios, which sketch out the extremes, Ms Baker said We will be continuing with this analysis as more information becomes available to ensure our levy payers are kept fully informed and are best positioned for the change ahead. In the meantime, the analysis shows that wait and see is a high-risk strategy and that there is plenty that farm businesses can do now to mitigate the effects of Brexit. These roadshows are one of the ways AHDB is helping farmers and growers improve their performance and inspiring them to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Marigold sales likely to hit 1.1m garlands Marigold sales are likely to swell 37.5 percent this Tihar, as festive demand for the flower has surged in major urban centres, primarily the Kathmandu Valley, traders said. Britain's poorest households will be the biggest beneficiaries of Britain's departure from the European Union, according to a report published by a prominent Labour group. The report, by the Labour Partys pro-Brexit group Labour Leave, states that Britain's poorest households would be 36 a week better off due to the possibility of cheap food imports. The reduction in prices and immigration control are "particularly important" for lower income households, the report states. For example, lowering tariffs on imported goods, whether done as part of formal agreements or unilaterally, has the "potential to significantly" cut prices on goods, such as food. It says: "These households spend more on food and housing, the prices of both of which are raised substantially by EU protectionism. Our estimates show that the lowest decile household would gain 36 a week from Brexit; the second lowest decile (60 per cent of the median) would gain 44 a week. "These figures represent around 15 per cent of their weekly spend. We expect faster productivity growth in manufacturing and farming, with a rebalancing towards products where the UK has strong comparative advantage; nevertheless, we expect the Treasury to help farmers directly for environmental/land stewardship reasons." "The fall in the exchange rate will provide a strong offsetting boost to all sectors in the short to medium term. It will boost net exports and investment by diverting funds from consumer incomes to industrial revenues; we are already seeing this in reduced consumption but improving business prospects." 'Sacrifices' However, some farmers have voiced concerns over the prospect of a post-Brexit UK with a cheap food agenda that sacrifices basic standards. In an article published by The Guardian, farmer Edward Barker said that uncertainty seems the only thing the farming industry can be sure of after 25 years of EU regulation. Mr Barker, who manages a mixed 500 hectare farm in Northamptonshire growing cereals, with a beef and sheep enterprise, outlined concerns over the potential impact for farm businesses of withdrawing from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and highlighted the issues around post-Brexit trade deals. He wrote: We are, rightly, prevented from importing a number of different foods and products from outside the European Union because they do not meet set standards. Reports of possible new bilateral trade deals being done with non-EU countries leave me very fearful that we will have to compete in a marketplace where food is being produced to standards that are much lower than our own, and possibly even illegal if we were to do that here. Hormones in beef cattle, ractopamine in pigs and bromated flour are all such examples of this, and for me no one wins in this scenario. Differing standards This has been reinforced by research by the National Pig Association (NPA), which highlights the differing welfare standards across the major pig producing countries, including the the UK, the major EU producers, the US, Canada and Brazil. NPA senior policy advisor Georgina Crayford, who compiled the document, said: When negotiating trade deals with third countries, it is vitally important that the UK pig sector is not undercut by imports of pork from countries with lower welfare standards. We must insist on equivalent standards. Howver, the AHDB has warned that the British Government could have difficulty trying to protect high welfare domestic farmers against overseas farmers operating to lower welfare, and lower cost, standards. Following the Brexit vote there has been a great deal of debate in the industry on whether the UK will adopt higher animal welfare standards, than those currently across the EU. In addition, there has be debate on whether the UK could use these higher standards, if adopted, as a barrier to restrict trade in below-standard products, says the report, written by AHDB senior analyst Sarah Baker and David Swales, head of strategic insight. Cheap food The Environment Secretary, Michael Gove, who was one of the leaders of the campaign to leave the EU, is a proponent of free trade who said during the referendum campaign that leaving the European Union could provide British consumers with cheap food as a result of trade deals with emerging nations, although since taking up his Defra role he has spoken of protecting UK welfare standards. Speaking to the East Anglian Daily Times during the Royal Norfolk Show, he said: Farmers recognise that as we leave the EU there are opportunities because of the high quality produce that the UK is famous for, and Norfolk in particular is noted for. There is an opportunity to sell more abroad but we also need to make sure that as we do sell abroad that we do not compromise our high environmental and animal welfare standards. His predecessor as Environment Secretary, Andrea Leadsom, said at the NFU conference earlier this year: We have been very clear in our manifesto that high animal welfare standards will be a core part of any international free trade arrangements. I have been very clear that we will not seek to put ourselves in an uncompetitive position by reducing welfare or food safety or food traceability standards. It's a very key unique selling point for the UK. We don't want to do anything to undermine that. 'International exemplar' Farming Minister George Eustice said at the Egg & Poultry Industry Conference in November: We want to make the UK the international exemplar when it comes to animal health and welfare. I would like us to pioneer new policies, new ways of working, to create a policy that is the envy of the world. I want us to get to a place where a decade from now the rest of the world will want to emulate policies that we put in place, said the Minister. However, more recently the Prime Minister refused to rule out lowering British food standards in order to secure a trade deal with the United States. Fears grew over the potential opening of the UK to imports of chlorinated chicken and hormone treated beef. And speaking to BBC's Today programme, Mr Gove said all members of the government were 'agreed' that animal welfare standards will not be diluted. We had told you about Madhuri Dixit donning the producer's hat for a Marathi film. Now if the latest buzz is to be believed then the gorgeous diva is all set to make her acting debut in Marathi cinema. While talking about it to a leading daily, Madhuri stated, " "Marathi cinema is evolving beautifully and it makes me proud to see such incredible stories come alive on screen. I have received many scripts over the years since I was always open to acting in Marathi films. However, no script excited me as much as this one. The moment I heard the story, I knew that I wanted to be a part of it." Currently untitled, it is a slice of life film that revolves around the self realization journey of a women (played by Madhuri) with a dash of humor attached to its narrative style. The film will be directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar who has also written the film along with Devashree Shivadekar. The film is co produced by Subhedar and Aarti Subhedar of Blue Mustang Creations along with Vivek Rangachari and Arun Rangachari of Dar Motion Pictures (producers of The Lunch Box). Madhuri genuinely believes cinema is beyond language and an effective story shown with expressive visuals can break language barriers and enthral audience across the globe. Talking about the subject, she expressed, "It is a story of every household yet it has a silver lining. It not only gives you hope and inspiration but also encourages you to live life in the true sense. The most fascinating factor for me to choose it is that it is going to carve a niche in everyone's heart." Despite having appeared in more than 75 films so far, this would be her first ever Marathi film as an actor. Rumors suggest that the film will hit the shooting floors by the end of this year. Earlier, talking about her home production, Madhuri had said, "My movie career is far from Ram and my production house RnM. That's my area of expertise and the decisions are made by me. His management is restricted within our production house. Dance With Madhuri is our big project together and this is where Ram takes care of the technology and I take care of the artistic side. I go to our office for a few hours as all decisions are made there." Stay tuned for all the latest dope about Madhuri's Marathi film. Is This Prabhas' Saaho Look? Well, it's not confirmed yet that whether this is Prabhas' actual look of Saaho or not, but the actor is indeed looking different and cool in this photoshoot. Prabhas On His Saaho Look! Recently, while talking to HT, Prabhas had revealed about his look and had said, "Baahubali was a period drama, but this is a modern film. So along with the story, my look, be it hairstyle or physique, is also different." Saaho Makers Plan A Surprise For Prabhas Lovers As per the reports, the makers of Saaho are planning to unveil the poster of Saaho' on October 23 i.e., on Prabhas' birthday. How Sweet! Reports also suggest that huge charity programs are being planned for Prabhas' birthday. With People's Expectations Comes Fear: Prabhas After Baahubali becoming a phenomenon, Prabhas admits that fear of failure with upcoming projects looms large. "Fear of failure is definitely there for every film." Prabhas Believes In Giving His Best & Leaving The Rest To Audience "It was present for Baahubali'; then, after the first part, it was there for the second part. Now, there are so many expectations and audience wants to see something else... Fear is there, but what we can do is believe in something and try to make it." Prabhas, On The Work Front On the film front, Prabhas is busy with Saaho, which will mark Shraddha Kapoor's Telugu debut. Villain, the upcoming thriller which features Mohanlal in the lead role, is all set for a grand release. As per the latest reports, Villain is all set to break yet another record of Pulimurugan, the 2016-released blockbuster movie. Pulimurugan had set a new record by having about 125 fans shows all over Kerala, on its release days. According to the latest updates, Villain is likely to break the record with about 130 fans shows, on its release day. The Mohanlal fans association has already finalised 120 plus fans shows for the B Unnikrishnan directorial. The latest updates suggest that there might be an increase in the number of shows, as the release date approaches. Villain, which is said to be an out-and-out stylish emotional thriller, is scripted by director B Unnikrishnan himself. The movie will feature Mohanlal in the role of Mathew Manjooran, an ex-cop who returns to the police force after a break. Vishal, the popular Tamil actor makes his Mollywood debut, by playing the lead antagonist in the movie. Manju Warrier essays the female lead opposite Mohanlal in Villain, which will also have Hansika Motwani and Rashi Khanna in the key roles. People On The Show Are Tacky Arshad was quoted by Mid-Day as saying, "People on the show, I hear, are tacky." He further said, "I haven't seen this season, but I've heard about it." Morality Is Taking A Backseat "The channel is attempting to boost the ratings by showcasing the things that sell. And thus, morality is taking a backseat." Arshad Blames The Audiences Like other actors, Arshad blames audiences for the same. He added, "People enjoy watching crass, and the channel is merely serving it. The content showcased on Indian television is regressive." Audiences Should Change! "The day people change, their taste [in content], the narrative of the shows will also change. If the world wants to see sensible people in the house, the channel will oblige. The audience wants to see dramatic people, those who fight, hit and abuse." Arshad Adds . . . "The concept back then was to understand the psyche of people and notice the developments that occur when they are made to reside in a house, isolated from the world. No one wanted to cause any trouble. There was no nudity or violence demanded in the clause." Arshad Further Added . . . "When you meet new individuals, you can be cordial for a week. Then, you discover their traits. When good behaviour wears out, the dynamics change." "Channel Wants TRP" "It takes time for people to reach that stage. But, now the channel wants immediate TRP success, so they are consciously sending nutcases into the house." Why We Agree With Arshad? What Arshad said about the show, channel and the viewers are absolutely true! The channel is desperate for ratings and is sending "nutcases" inside the house! We Too, Blame The Audiences People want to watch fights and contestants abusing each other along with some love stories. The channel has been showing the same since the beginning and people are really watching it! If you are shown a house without fights or love stories, will you watch the show? Why People Watch Bigg Boss? Although a few feel the fights are choreographed, the love stories are fake (contestants' strategy) and the show is scripted, many of them still watch it! Well, we are yet to figure out the reason. Ford Motor Company (F 2.95%) has become a major player in the huge and growing Chinese new-car market. Ford and its joint ventures sold 1.27 million vehicles in China in 2016, and those joint ventures generated $1.44 billion in equity income for the Blue Oval. Clearly, for Ford investors, tracking the company's results in China has become significant. But Ford's China results can be confusing, given that its sales in China include vehicles from two joint ventures as well as its own global production. Here's a quick explanation of where Ford's vehicles in China come from and how the company reports the profits it makes from selling those vehicles in the world's largest auto market. Understanding Ford's joint ventures in China In order to manufacture vehicles in China, global automakers are required to form joint ventures with domestic Chinese automakers. Ford currently has two joint ventures in China, and it's exploring a third. The majority of Ford's sales in China come from vehicles built by its joint venture with Chinese automaker Changan Automobile, called Changan Ford (or CAF for short). CAF builds Ford-brand passenger cars and SUVs. Most are familiar to Americans, though a couple have different names: The Kuga is the Chinese version of the Escape SUV, and the Mondeo is China's version of the Fusion. Only two of CAF's models are China-only products: Ford Escort is a compact sedan based on the last-generation Ford Focus that Ford developed as an entry-level model for China. It's a simple, affordable vehicle that sells in big numbers, around 30,000 every month. Ford Taurus is a full-size sedan, but it's different from its U.S.-market namesake. The China-market Taurus is a fairly new model that's mechanically related to the new Lincoln Continental. As you can see from the photo below, it's pretty much what you'd expect: a big Ford sedan with modern styling. Ford's second joint venture is with Chinese automaker Jiangling Motors, a company that focuses on trucks and commercial vehicles. The joint venture, called JMC, builds the Ford Transit vans, a truck-based SUV called the Everest, and a line of light trucks under the Yusheng and JMC brand names. There might be a third Ford joint venture in China soon. In August, Ford entered a "memorandum of understanding" with Chinese automaker Anhui Zotye Automobile (commonly called Zotye Auto). The two are exploring the idea of a joint venture that would produce a new line of all-electric passenger vehicles to be sold under a new China-only brand. Ford also imports some vehicles into China Taxes on imported vehicles in China are fairly high; they're intended to encourage global automakers to build the majority of their China-market vehicles in the country. But Ford finds it worthwhile to import some specialty models into China: All Mustangs sold in China are imported from the U.S. (The Mustang is now a global Ford, sold in over 100 world markets, but all Mustangs are built at a single factory in Michigan.) In China, the imported Explorer is positioned as an upscale alternative to the Edge, which is built in China in a special extended-wheelbase version that seats seven. Despite its high local price (because of import taxes), Ford sells around 1,000 Explorers a month in China. Ford is testing the pickup waters in China by importing small quantities of the high-performance F-150 Raptor pickup. Ford builds the Focus in China in several different variations, but it doesn't build the high-performance ST and RS versions locally. Those are also imported. Ford also imports all of the Lincoln vehicles that it sells in China, though that may change at some point in the future. Lincoln offers five models in China through a network of dealers that emphasize a high level of personal service. Those include the MKZ and Continental sedans, and the MKC, MKX, and Navigator SUVs. Lincoln's sales totals in China are still fairly small, but they've grown quickly. How Ford reports its China sales and profits Ford reports its sales in China monthly, generally around the tenth of the month, in a document that includes sales totals for all of its China-market models as well as some commentary from executives. You can find those reports in the "News and Events" section of Ford's site for shareholders. Unfortunately for investors who like easy answers, Ford doesn't report one single bottom-line number for its operation in China. Financial results for China are rolled into the pretax results that Ford reports for its Asia-Pacific region as a whole. But since Ford is investing for growth (or put another way, losing money) in other parts of Asia right now, the profit total that Ford reports for Asia-Pacific only tells part of the China story. But we can learn more by looking a little deeper, inside the slide presentation that Ford prepares for its quarterly earnings conference calls. Those presentations typically include two slides for the Asia-Pacific region; on the first, Ford has made a practice of calling out the equity income for its two Chinese joint ventures in a note on the right-hand side. That's a number that can be compared directly to reports from some of Ford's competitors -- notably General Motors (GM 2.67%), which reports equity income for its own China joint ventures. That number plus the monthly sales reports are probably the best way for Ford shareholders in the U.S. to tell how the company is faring in China. What happened? The struggling restaurant chain, Ruby Tuesday (RT), announced two major things Monday when it released its first-quarter fiscal 2018 financial results and also said it would be acquired by a private equity firm. The stock popped 18% higher as the stock inched closer to the agreed $2.40 purchase price per share. So what The agreement calls for NRD Capital, an Atlanta-based private equity firm, to acquire all of Ruby Tuesday's common stock for $2.40 per share in cash. NRD will assume or retire all debt obligations for roughly $335 million. Ruby Tuesday dropped the announcement on the same day it reported total revenue declined 15.3% during the first quarter of fiscal 2018; its adjusted net loss was $0.01 per diluted share. Said Stephen Sadove, Non-executive Chairman of Ruby Tuesday, in a press release: The Board of Directors and our advisors have thoroughly evaluated all options available to the Company and are confident that this agreement will provide the most promising opportunity to realize the highest value for our stockholders while providing the best path forward for the Ruby Tuesday brand, its employees, franchisees, and loyal customers. ... NRD Capital has a distinguished track record of achieving and maintaining profitable growth for restaurant concepts and will be an excellent partner to lead Ruby Tuesday going forward. Now what There's not much else to see here, and Ruby Tuesday's public story is about over. Investors can at least take some solace in the fact that the $2.40 purchase price is a premium of about 37% to its closing price on March 13, 2017, a day prior to management announcing the desire to seek "strategic alternatives." Oil prices have been stubbornly weak this year, spending much of the time below $50 a barrel when many expected it to be well over that level by now. However, while oil remains comfortably below triple digits, that doesn't mean it couldn't eventually regain that level. In fact, there's a growing chorus of analysts who are worried that crude prices could spike in the future. Here's a look at five scenarios that could push oil back over $100 a barrel, especially if two or more combined at the same time. 1. OPEC empties out the barrel Members of OPEC, along with several nonmembers, have agreed to reduce their combined output by 1.8 million barrels per day (Bpd) to help drain some of the excess supply sitting in storage, which has been weighing on oil prices. So far, OPEC has done an excellent job of adhering to its pledge given that compliance has averaged 86% this year. While the current agreement lasts until next March, members have openly talked about extending it, and even more recently suggested that they are open to taking "some extraordinary measures" that would sustain the rebalancing, which could include expanding membership and cutting production even deeper. That said, with inventories getting closer to the five-year average, it's possible that OPEC could go too far and drain too much oil out of the market causing prices to skyrocket, especially if there were to be an unexpected supply shock and demand continues accelerating. 2. Years of underinvestment finally catches up Three years of low oil prices have caused the industry to defer or delay a stunning $2 trillion of planned oil projects. As a result, there's limited spare capacity in the market right now, which will make it harder for many producers to keep up with the natural production decline rates of legacy oil fields. According to reservoir specialist Core Labs (CLB 1.67%), the industry will need to add 2.8 million Bpd next year just to maintain current production capacity. Thus, oil companies need to ramp up investments to fight the decline rate. If they don't, an executive from Halliburton (HAL 0.13%) warned that "the market is going to catch up... you'll see some kind of spike in the price of oil. Maybe somewhere around 2020-2021, but it's got to catch up sooner or later." Core and Halliburton aren't just saying that to convince customers to start spending more money now. The International Energy Agency also recently predicted that "global oil supply could struggle to keep pace with demand after 2020, risking a sharp increase in prices, unless new projects are approved soon." 3. Iran upends the oil market One of the reasons oil prices have remained low in recent years is that the Iran quickly ramped up its oil exports after signing the nuclear deal that ended the sanctions holding it back. The country now produces 3.8 million bpd and is back up to its pre-sanction level. However, President Trump has vowed to "rip up" the Iran Nuclear Deal, which could take that oil off the market and drive prices higher. Furthermore, such a decision could infuriate the country and cause it to seek revenge. One of the ways it could do so would be to close the Strait of Hormuz, which is a crucial choke point for oil flowing out of the Persian Gulf. Tankers carry 17 million barrels of crude through that critical shipping lane each day, which if cut off, could cause oil to spike 50% or more in no time. 4. From oil field to battlefield Another potential flashpoint for oil is the ever-present potential of a military coup, major terrorist attack, or civil war in a leading oil producing nation. There are already several hot spots that could flare up including Nigeria, Libya, and Venezuela. Crude output in all three countries has ebbed and flowed due to a variety of disruptions, which has caused small ripples in oil prices. That said, an even greater concern would be an unforeseen event that sends shockwaves across the oil market, such as a coup or devastating terrorist attack in a place like Russia, Iraq, or Saudi Arabia, which could constrict exports for quite a while and leave the market starved for oil. 5. A wave of destruction cripples the oil patch In addition to a conflict-driven supply shock, there's always a risk that a natural disaster lands a devastating blow on a major oil-producing region or export hub. Luckily, the industry has only experienced glancing hits in recent years that have just temporarily curbed output. For example, wildfires in Canada's oil sands region last year caused about 400,000 Bpd to go offline in June while hurricanes Harvey and Nate in the U.S. Gulf Coast this year only caused temporary shutdowns because these natural disasters largely spared the industry of significant damage. That said, the industry might not be quite so fortunate in the future. If a string of natural disasters rips right through a couple of essential oil centers causing long-term damage, it could cause output to remain offline for quite a while, potentially fueling a massive spike in prices. Nepal to face turbulence as remittance flow drops Nepali economy is on the verge of facing a major turbulence, as flow of money sent home by those working abroad is likely to drop in the first quarter of this fiscal year, raising prospects of a further slowdown in consumption and fall in foreign exchange reserves. Columbia, SC (29201) Today Cloudy early, then off and on rain showers for the afternoon. High 58F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Rain showers this evening with overcast skies overnight. Low around 45F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. Written by Max Rohrbein-Kling and Johannes Kuhlmann Having frequently posted here on Gamasutra over the past couple of weeks, we have now reached part four of our series of blogs about our experience with bringing Galaxy on Fire 3 - Manticore to Vulkan. Our posts follow this structure: In case you have not read our previous posts yet, here is our disclaimer once more: When we started working on the Android version of our game we decided to use Vulkan for rendering (there is also an OpenGL ES version, but that is not of interest here). This series is about our own experiences with implementing a Vulkan renderer and getting it to work on different devices, in particular on Android devices. So, we are mainly going to talk about the interesting aspects of our implementation and then dive into what we learned along the way. First and foremost, the focus of our Vulkan renderer was to ship a game. That means it is more pragmatic than perfect and we have mainly done what has worked for us. We are not using any fancy stuff like custom allocators, parallel command generation, reusing command buffers, etc., etc. We do believe, though, that our implementation is still reasonably versatile and well done. This fourth post covers the problems we encountered that are specific to Vulkan on Android. Vulkan on Android 6 While proper Vulkan support was only added in Android 7 (or Android N, or Nougat, or API level 24), there are a few devices out there that already had Vulkan support on Android 6 (or Android M, or Marshmallow, or API level 23). Some of these devices are, for example, the Samsung Galaxy S7 (Edge) and Nvidia Shield Tablet. It is possible to support such devices with a bit of extra effort. The problem is that you cannot depend on the Vulkan header and library being part of the Android SDK/NDK. Instead, you have to provide your own header file and load the library dynamically at runtime. Google's Vulkan samples have a convenient wrapper for this that spares you all the typing. Note, however, that just because a given device can support Vulkan on Android 6, that does not mean all devices of that type support Vulkan on Android 6. The Vulkan support can vary with minor updates and even the extend of the support may vary. For example, we have found one implementation reporting its API version as being 0.0.1 and not supporting the swapchain extension or validation layers at all. Another device told us it did not want to work with us by reporting the VK_ERROR_INCOMPATIBLE_DRIVER error. So, make sure to check that the Vulkan implementation that a device provides is actually one you can work with and that it supports all the features you need. Otherwise, fail gracefully. Lifecycle Concerns A challenge that is rather unique to Android is that you have to handle the case when your application is sent to the background. The player can pause and resume the application at pretty much any time by pressing the home button, for example. You have to handle this on the CPU side in order to not eat up all CPU cycles in the background. This would annoy the user by slowing down the phone and draining the battery. Unfortunately, we could not find any documentation on what you have to do for Vulkan when this happens. Therefore, we had to figure this out ourselves by experimenting. We already knew that with OpenGL ES you have to be careful to not destroy your complete context (which means you will have to recreate all your textures and buffers, and so on). If you are careful, you can get away with only having your surface destroyed and recreated. It is actually the same case with Vulkan. When the application is paused, your surface is destroyed. When it is resumed, you get a new surface which you will have to render into from then on. This is all a bit tricky as you have to be careful with synchronization and timing. Do not destroy the surface while still rendering into it, for example. Destroying and recreating the surface also means that you will have to recreate your swapchain and its framebuffers. When all of that is done, you should have a smooth and quick pause and resume cycle. Note, however, that you cannot pass in the old swapchain into vkCreateSwapchainKHR() . You have to destroy it independently and create a completely new one. We assume this is due to the old swapchain already being invalid because the surface was destroyed. Debugging Tools We started with implementing the Vulkan renderer on Windows. There, RenderDoc had our back when our rendered frames looked wrong and the validation layers did not provide enough insights. For Android development, there are various tools aiming to satisfy your Vulkan debugging needs. RenderDoc also supports capturing from an Android app. But it is harder to set up. The major GPU vendors also provide their own tools: Google is currently working on extracting the graphics debugger from Android Studio into a standalone tool. Sadly, when we really wanted a frame capture, it almost always was on a device where the validation layers were not working. And all of the tools we tried require you to load a special validation layer for the capture. As a result, none of these tools provided a great deal of help. We therefore either tried to reproduce the problem on Windows or took a more manual approach by selectively disabling certain kinds of draw calls to track down the problem. Conclusion Implementing a Vulkan renderer is already a complex undertaking in itself. But from our point view, there are even more pitfalls on Android. This is mainly caused by two factors: First, the absence of simple-to-use tools. And second, the presence of additional difficulties such as the application lifecycle and different versions of Android. Interestingly, different GPUs from the same vendor often have the same manifestations of bugs. So, if you want to reproduce a problem, make sure to use a device with the exact same GPU or at least with one from the same vendor. This can be difficult in some cases as, for example, Samsung likes to ship different GPUs in different regions of the world. In the next (and final) post, we will talk about select statistics and numbers that we collected from our Vulkan implementation. The easiest way to make Khinkali Novel mind-blowing Georgian product - GeorgianJournal Nokia 8 to skip Android 7.1.2 Nougat, Android Oreo update coming soon News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu Nokia 8 to get the Oreo update by the end of October or early November. A few days back, Nokia 6 received the Android 7.1.2 Nougat update that brings in the October security patch too. Along with this smartphone, the flagship Nokia 8 also received the October security update but not the Android 7.1.2 Nougat. Taking the clue from a recent report by NokiaPowerUser, it looks like the Nokia 8 will leapfrog to the Android Oreo update skipping Android 7.1.2 Nougat. The report further tips that the Oreo update will be rolled out to the Nokia 8 by the end of this month or early November. This isn't surprising as we had come across a previous report tipping that the Nokia 8 will receive the Oreo update by the end of October. The Android Oreo update is the latest one and a significant update that packs in many new features and improvements. This update will definitely give an all-new user experience to the Android users. In a previous report that surfaced a few weeks back, we got to know that all the existing Nokia smartphones will receive the Android 7.1.2 Nougat update prior to the rollout of the Android Oreo update. This does not come as a surprise to us and also makes sense for HMD to think logically. The Android 7.1.2 Nougat update brings in a number of bug fixes and improvements to the Android 7.1.1 Nougat running on these phones. Given that the Nokia 9, Nokia 7 and Nokia 2 could be launched during the MWC 2018 tech show, we can expect these phones to run on Android Oreo out of the box as the update will be pretty much dated by then. Also, we know that all the Nokia smartphones will get two years of OS support, so the existing ones will receive the Android P update that will be launched by Google next year. 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 Samsung to step up the wearable game: Acquires patent for a flexible smart bracelet News oi -Samden Sherpa Samsung's next wearable device might come in the form of a bracelet. Samsung is reportedly working on a new device and this time it's not another groundbreaking smartphone. The company seems to be planning on bringing out a unique and a trendy device in the wearable segment. The South Korean tech giant has now been granted patent by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a next-generation wearable device which will interestingly come in the form of a bracelet. Patently Mobile were the first ones to get their hands on the information as well as the diagrams of the device. As we have already said that this wearable device will come in the form of a bracelet, the patent design further illustrates an Android UI on the display that will come with some unique features. The display seems to be flexible and it basically takes the shape of the bracelet. However, the display might be configurable in various ways as it is actually just attached to the bracelet (worn part). Further, it looks like the display can be made to stand up straight like a smartphone or be shifted horizontally to suit the user's needs. As of now, it's not that clear what Samsung is planning in terms of the actual design of the device. Well, basically, patent images are just images designed to deliver insight and show the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) what the product might look like and how it would function. Besides, the patent images do not necessarily depict the actual design concepts. In any case, it will be interesting to see how Samsung will move forward with it. Meanwhile, Samsung is said to be developing a foldable phone dubbed as Galaxy X which might be launched in 2018. But again, Samsung has been known to file patents most of the time but only very few become a reality and reach the store shelves. So, we might have to wait for sometime before we know what will become of this design. 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 Rs 4.8m EU aid for post-quake recovery The European Union (EU) has provided financial assistance of Rs 4.8 billion (40 million euros) to the government for the post-quake reconstruction. Allied airborne operations set the stage for Swift Response 17-2 exercise By Staff Sgt. Kathleen V. Polanco October 16, 2017 HOHENFELS, Germany -- Several local German civilians and media personnel gathered on a 800x800 meter field outside the Hohenfels Training Area, Oct. 9, 2017 as they patiently waited for paratroopers to safely land right before their eyes and cameras. Approximately 120 British and 166 French paratroopers soared through the overcast sky from a C-130. The multinational force made up the Airborne Combined Joint Expeditionary Force (A-CJEF), one of the airborne brigades participating in Swift Response 17, Phase II. "When they hit the ground in reality, they'll take the lessons they learned from this exercise onto the battlefield," said Capt. Christopher Wade, media operations officer with the 16th Air Assault Brigade, British Army. Swift Response 17-2 is an annual, U.S. Army Europe-led exercise focused on allied airborne forces' ability to quickly and effectively respond to crisis situations as an interoperable multi-national team. The exercises takes place at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, Oct. 2-20. Swift Response 17-2 provided an opportunity for multinational forces to learn how to work together as one combined joint fighting force. "Training is vital for anyone," said Lt. Col. Duncan Mann, the commander of the 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment. "But training with multinational partners is more important than most because we all know how the Brits operate and the French know how the French operate. But actually working together, we have to work out both personality issues and language issues. Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is very important." The first Joint Forcible Entry, the airborne operation with paratroopers entering their area of responsibility, wasn't the end of the day for the A-CJEF. The multinational force had to march approximately five kilometers to reach their objective, the Short Take-Off Landing strip on Hohenfels Training Area. On the way to the STOL strip, more of the German local populace watched the A-CJEF tactfully patrolled through a nearby town, Emhof, while paratroopers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade pulled security. After passing through the Bavarian town and finally reaching the landing zone, the multinational force successfully accomplished their objective, securing the STOL strip. This mission was a crucial requisite in order for the next set of missions in Swift Response 17-2 to be conducted. "We will deploy as coalitions, partnerships and allies," said Wade. "The better we understand how to work each other through exercises like this, the more effective and efficient we'll be on the battlefield when we deploy for real." The airborne operation on Monday was the first of two Joint Forcible Entry (JFE) exercises in Swift Response 17-2. The second JFE was organized to occur the next day on the Hohenberg drop zone in the Hohenfels Training Area, when American, Italian, Polish and paratroopers were scheduled to jump from a variety of airplanes. But the uncooperative weather didn't allow that to happen. However, the rainy, windy weather wasn't enough to cancel the six heavy drops, equipment parachuting onto the drop zone, allowing military equipment and vehicles to safely land on the drop zone. The successful mission enabled the multinational force to move forward into the next Swift Response 17-2 phases. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address First security force assistance brigade training for deployment By Gary Sheftick, Army News Service October 16, 2017 WASHINGTON -- The Army announced it had accelerated fielding of its security force assistance brigades, or SFABs, to allow traditional brigade combat teams to focus on readiness for warfighting against near-peer threats. "It is my assessment, and the assessment of the Secretary and the assessment of the Army staff, that we are likely to be involved in train, advise, and assist operations for many years to come," said Chief of Staff of the ArmyGen. Mark Milley during the 2017 AUSA Annual Meeting. The Army staff determined that strategic-advisory missions are here to stay, and the SFABs improve the Army's ad-hoc solutions, which relied heavily on conventionally organized brigade combat teams for the last 15 years. During a Warrior's Corner presentation at the AUSA meeting, Brig. Gen. Brian Mennes, director of Force Management with the Army's G-3/5/7, discussed the SFABs and their mission to train partner forces such as the Iraqi and Afghan armies. "It's a very important function," he said. The decision to accelerate fielding of SFABs was made this summer by Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis and Gen. Milley. To fill the SFABs, the Army is looking for high-performance Soldiers with a "propensity to learn." Soldiers must score at least 240 on the Army Physical Fitness Test, with 80 in each category. Commanders and leaders will have previously commanded and led similar BCT units at the same echelon, and enlisted advisors will be the rank of sergeant and above. "All the Soldiers are volunteers, they are highly vetted," Milley said. "They will approach standards similar to the Ranger Regiment." SFABs will field the best equipment, according to Mennes. The new units should receive the best weapons and night-observation devices, along with state-of-the-art communications equipment. Mennes believes the SFAB units are essential for three reasons: 1. They will improve the Army's ability to partner with other nations. 2. SFABs allow the Army to reduce, over time, the demand for combat advising from conventional brigade combat teams. 3. In a time of national emergency, SFABs will provide options for the Army to grow BCTs rapidly. SFABs will be staffed initially with about 500-600 officers and NCOs, who will be selected based on qualifications and experience, along the lines of Special Operations. A new school was stood up at Fort Benning earlier this year to train the SFAB Soldiers. The Military Advisor Training Academy offers unique instruction to the NCOs and officers, who learn about the social aspects and cultures of their partner nations, how to work with interpreters, and "the art of negotiation." "SFABs are not Special Forces," Mennes stressed, but they do receive some comparable training, including language instruction. These new units are an excellent opportunity for young officers and NCOs to expand their experience, he said. One company commander he met couldn't speak more highly of the experience he gained while training Iraqi troops in Mosul earlier this year. Eventually, the Army will have five active SFABs and one in the National Guard. Initially, two will focus on the Middle East, with the additional SFABs concentrating on the Pacific, Africa and possibly Europe. SFABs are a permanent, additive force structure. They are being developed and deployed as a solution to an enduring Army requirement in support of the defense strategy. SFABs will deploy to combat zones and will likely sustain a higher deployment tempo than other conventional Army units. "This is a large plank in our national defense strategy," Mennes said. According to Gen. Milley, "SFABs will be institutionalized into the Army and will not impact the service's force structure." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Monterey Deploys as Surge Force Navy News Service Story Number: NNS171016-27 Release Date: 10/16/2017 12:22:00 PM By Lt. j.g. Christian Kurowski, USS Monterey (CG 61) Public Affairs NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) departed Naval Station Norfolk Oct. 16, for a surge deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation. Monterey is deploying to support maritime security operations and to increase theater security cooperation and forward naval presence. The guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61), a component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, returned to Naval Station Norfolk following a 7 1/2 month long deployment to 5th and 6th Fleet area of operations Jan. 19. She is part of the Navy's Optimized Fleet Response Plan. Monterey will ensure a continuous ballistic missile defense presence and uninterrupted support for potential tasking. "I am inspired and motivated by the crew of USS Monterey. I could not be more proud and honored to serve with this crew," said Capt. Dave Stoner, Monterey's commanding officer. "The effort and skills demonstrated over the last two months is a testament to the strength and abilities of this crew. These Sailors have epitomized this ship's motto, 'Rough in Battle, Ready in Peace'." The ship was commissioned June. 16, 1990, and is named after the decisive victory against the Mexican forces at Monterrey, Mexico, during the Mexican-American War. This was the first major urban engagement in U.S. military history. American forces were led by future President Zachary Taylor. It was the first battle for future General and President Ulysses S. Grant. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS San Diego Arrives In Souda Bay, Greece Navy News Service Story Number: NNS171016-26 Release Date: 10/16/2017 11:26:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Schoenberger USS San Diego Public Affairs SOUDA BAY, Greece (NNS) -- The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22) and embarked Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived in Souda Bay, Greece, on Oct. 15, for a scheduled port visit. The visit is part of San Diego's planned mid-deployment voyage repair maintenance stop, and serves as an opportunity for the ship's embarked Sailors and Marines to experience Souda Bay. "We have been underway for a while," said Capt. Pete Collins, commanding officer of San Diego. "Pulling in is a great way to relieve some stress and fatigue that some Sailors might be feeling at this point of our deployment." San Diego arrived in Souda Bay after three-and-a-half months of its deployment. Mid-deployment voyage repairs are used to complete repairs and maintenance to ensure the ship continues to be ready for the remainder of its deployment and its mission. "It's very necessary for us to pull in and take care of our mid-deployment voyage repair," said Collins. "We want to make sure that we are making the most of where we are and maintaining our capabilities and operational impact." Sailors and Marines aboard San Diego will also have the opportunity to participate in recreational activities in Souda Bay and surrounding areas to include: a tour to the famous Minoan Palace of Knossos, a shopping tour of the city's leather district, a tour inside the cellars of a 100-year-old traditional wine factory, and a hiking trip through many of the villages in the area. "I think it's great that Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) puts together all these different things to do when we pull into these foreign ports," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Esmerelda Hernandez. "Without the MWR trips, I feel like there would be a lot that I would be missing out on when we pull into port." San Diego is deployed with the America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 15th MEU to support maritime security and theater security cooperation in efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. Commissioned in 2012, San Diego is the sixth ship in the San Antonio-class of amphibious landing transport dock ships. Designed as a multi-mission amphibious warship, these ships are able to support a broad range of expeditionary operations. The ship's namesake comes from the city of San Diego which has a long mutual history with the U.S. Navy and is the fourth U.S. vessel to bear the name. The America ARG and 15th MEU provide senior U.S. military leadership and partners with a flexible force which can rapidly respond to contingencies and crises within a region. With ships, aircraft, troops, and logistical equipment, the ARG/MEU is a self-contained and self-sustained task force capable of conducting a wide range of military operations including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The America ARG, led by Commander, Amphibious Squadron 3, consists of San Diego, the America-class amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), and the Harpers Ferry-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52). The ships will operate with embarked forces of the 15th MEU, the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, and detachments from Assault Craft Unit 5, Naval Beach Group 1, Beachmaster Unit 1, Fleet Surgical Team 1 and Tactical Air Control Squadron 11. The 15th MEU is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force comprised of a ground combat element, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment; an aviation combat element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 (Reinforced); and a logistics combat element, Combat Logistics Battalion 15. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Force 16 Takes the Helm of the Navy Reserve Force Navy News Service Story Number: NNS171016-14 Release Date: 10/16/2017 9:09:00 AM By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Stephen Hickok WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Command Master Chief Chris Kotz relieved Force Master Chief C.J. Mitchell as force master chief of the Navy Reserve, during a change of appointment and retirement ceremony at the Navy Memorial, Oct. 13. Chief of Navy Reserve (CNR) Vice Adm. Luke McCollum presided over the event, installing Kotz as the 16th senior enlisted leader of the reserve force. "I'm honored to say for the first time, welcome aboard Force Kotz," said McCollum during the ceremony. "You not only have big shoes to fill; 15 [had] a big personality as well." McCollum discussed his new action plan being developed to accelerate the impact of the Navy Reserve mission in today's competitive environment. He focused on Kotz's important role in the plan. "No one is going to be more valuable to amplifying this call to action than the force master chief," McCollum said. Kotz is from North Augusta, South Carolina and joined the Navy in 1991. His last assignment was as command master chief for Commander, Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North headquartered in New Orleans. In his new position as the enlisted advisor for CNR, Kotz will become the voice of Reserve Sailors. "Force is the embodiment of the enlisted community; the advocate for each and every Reserve Sailor across the globe," said McCollum. At the end of the change of appointment, Mitchell finalized the transfer of responsibility by ceremonially handing Kotz the force cellphone. He stressed to Kotz the honor and privilege of supporting the more than 43,500 Reserve Sailors. "I did not leave gas left in the tank," Mitchell said. "Being the force became my passion. Don't worry, Chris. I left plenty of work for you." Mitchell's last four years as Force 15 marked the finale of his 28-year Navy career. His retirement ceremony began immediately following the change of appointment. Both ceremonies and guest speakers, including McCollum and former Chief of Navy Reserve Vice Adm. Robin Braun, retired, celebrated Mitchell's commitment to stewardship. They also charged Kotz to have the same focus. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Multinational Mine Warfare Exercise Begins Off Coast of South Korea Navy News Service Story Number: NNS171016-05 Release Date: 10/16/2017 8:43:00 AM From Amphibious Force 7th Fleet Public Affairs BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Maritime forces from the United States and Republic of Korea (ROK), together with personnel from United Nations Command (UNC) Sending State nations, commenced Multinational Mine Warfare Exercise (MN MIWEX) in waters off of the eastern coast of the Republic of Korea, Oct. 15. USS Chief (MCM 14) departed Busan after a short visit to join ROK navy MCM assets. Integration procedures began to ensure all participants can work together. Over the next week, mine countermeasure ships, aircraft and explosive ordnance personnel will conduct a series of drills meant to practice procedures and tactics to detect and neutralize sea mines in order to create safe navigation routes in a given area of operations. The evolutions are meant to provide increased mine countermeasure interoperability and readiness to respond to a contingency on the Korean peninsula. "This exercise is an incredible opportunity for our MCM forces and our staff to conduct complex mine countermeasure operations with our much-valued allies and friends in support of the Republic of Korea navy and other nations committed to defending the Korean peninsula," said Capt. Jim Miller, commodore, Mine Countermeasures Squadron (MCMRON) 7, whose staff will participate in the exercise from Chinhae, Republic of Korea. "We continue to train with our MCM counterparts in the ROK navy on a routine basis, and we look forward to further enhancing our combined capabilities through this exercise." Leading up to the MN MIWEX, U.S. Naval Forces Korea and the Republic of Korea navy hosted their fourth annual Mine Countermeasures Symposium in Busan at the Republic of Korea Fleet Headquarters in Busan, Oct. 12-14. The three-day long exchange was designed to enhance mine countermeasure coordination, training and cooperation, and improve capabilities in mine countermeasures operations. "The relationship between the U.S. and ROK navies is stronger than it ever has been," said Rear Adm. Brad Cooper, commander, Naval Forces Korea. "Together our navies work to strengthen the alliance and relationships we have with the UNC Sending States through engagements like the symposium that highlight cooperation and interoperability." In attendance at the symposium were representatives from nine UNC Sending States including Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. The UNC Sending States representatives will also observe portions of the exercise. Participating nations contributing forces to MN MIWEX include Canada, the Philippines, the ROK, and the United States. U.S. units participating in the MN MIWEX include staff from MCMRON 7, Mine Countermeasures Helicopter Squadron 14 Det. 2A, and USS Chief. This year marks the 64th anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty, which serves as the foundation of our alliance and a force for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ROK Navy Welcomes USS Michigan to Busan to Strengthen Partnership Navy News Service Story Number: NNS171016-01 Release Date: 10/16/2017 8:26:00 AM From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea Public Affairs BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- The Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Michigan (SSGN 727) (Gold) arrived at Busan, Republic of Korea (ROK), Oct. 13, for a routine visit during a regularly scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific. During the visit Sailors will experience the culture and history of the ROK, while fostering outstanding relations between the U.S. Navy, ROK military and the local Busan community. "The U.S. and ROK navies have always enjoyed a strong relationship. Today, our relationship is stronger than it has ever been and our ironclad partnership is further reinforced by this visit from Michigan," said Rear Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Korea. "Michigan Sailors were warmly welcomed by the ROK navy today and I know they'll receive the same wonderful welcome from the local community during their visit to Busan." USS Michigan is one of four Ohio-class guided-missile submarines. The Navy's guided-missile submarines provide an unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Armed with tactical missiles and equipped with superior communications capabilities, guided-missile submarines are capable of launching missile strikes and supporting special operation forces (SOF) missions. "Throughout this deployment, the crew has been extremely professional and dedicated," said Capt. Gustavo Gutierrez, Michigan's commanding officer. "Everyone [aboard] is mission ready, and I'm proud of being their commanding officer." Measuring more than 560 feet long and weighing more than 18,000 tons when submerged, Michigan is one of the largest submarines in the world. "We are looking forward to working with our [Republic of Korea navy] partners and experiencing the Korean culture, which is a first for many of us," said Gutierrez. Michigan is the second submarine of the Ohio-class of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and guided missile submarines (SSGNs), and the third U.S. Navy vessel to bear the name. Michigan is homeported in Bremerton, Washington, and is forward deployed from Guam. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US drone kills five in Pakistan near Afghan border Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 07:12PM At least five people have lost their lives after a US drone attack on a compound in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region, intelligence officials say. The fatalities occurred on Monday evening, when the strike targeted a home in Kurram tribal district, close to the Afghan border. A militant commander of the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani network, Sangeen Wali, was reportedly killed in the drone attack. Local sources confirmed the death toll and said five bodies had been recovered from the rubble. It is the second such strike since US President Donald Trump in August accused Pakistan of providing "safe havens" for militants, a claim Islamabad denies. In March, the previous US strike killed two men riding a motorbike in northwestern Kurram Agency, one of tribal districts stretching along the border with Afghanistan. The use of drones has proven extremely controversial with the Pakistani public and rights groups over human rights and sovereignty concerns. In 2013, UK-based rights group Amnesty International said the US could be guilty of war crimes by carrying out extrajudicial killings. The aerial attacks, initiated by former US President George W. Bush in 2004, were escalated during Barack Obama's terms in office. The US carries out drone strikes in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya and elsewhere. The US claims the airstrikes target members of terrorist groups, but according to local officials and witnesses, civilians have been the victims of the attacks in many cases. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kenya police killed 67 in violence after vote annulment: Rights groups Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 04:18PM Human rights groups say as many as 67 people died during a police crackdown on protesters following the annulment of the August presidential election in the East African nation. In a report released on Monday, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch said at least 33 people died in the Kenyan capital Nairobi during crackdown on opposition supporters. According to the report, police in Nairobi used "excessive force" and that "most of (the 33 who died) were killed as a result of action by the police." "Researchers found that although police behaved appropriately in some instances, in many others they shot or beat protesters to death," the report added. Among those killed were a nine-year-old child shot dead while standing on a balcony and a woman who was eight months pregnant and was trampled to death after fainting from inhaling tear gas, the report noted. The report came after researchers from the two rights groups interviewed 151 victims, witnesses, police and others in Nairobi's low-income areas known to be opposition strongholds. People said police pursued them, kicking down doors and shooting and beating some to death. Elsewhere in the report, the rights bodies said that security agents had carried out operations in Mathare, Kibera, Babadogo, Dandora, Korogocho, Kariobangi and Kawangware slums between August 9 and 13. Michelle Kagari, a deputy regional director with Amnesty International, accused Kenyan police of using excessive force to curb protests. "This deadly use of excessive force has become a hallmark of police operations in Kenya and must be decisively stopped before the next election takes place." HRW had earlier documented 12 killings after the vote by police in western Kenya, the main opposition stronghold. During the violence, the parents of a six-month-old baby in western Kenya told Reuters their child was clubbed by police in her home and died later in hospital from brain trauma. The report is likely to bolster the case of Kenyan activists who accuse police of brutality and extrajudicial killings. Activists say few officers are charged and convictions are extremely rare. Meanwhile, Kenyan police have disputed the findings by the rights groups. The National Police Service said in a statement that the report was "totally misleading and based on falsehoods." Immediately after the unrest in August, police said only "criminals" and "thugs" had been killed or injured. On Thursday, the government banned demonstrations in the central business district of Nairobi, the coastal city of Mombasa and the western city of Kisumu, where protesters had been gathering twice a week. The angry demonstrators have been calling on the election board to make reforms to ensure a fair poll. Reacting to the developments, a group of UN human rights experts called for the government's ban on protests to be listed and denounced a "pattern of police brutality" in response to the recent demonstrations. Kenya's Supreme Court voided the August election, citing irregularities, without finding any individual at the election board responsible. President Uhuru Kenyatta, who won the vote only to have his victory annulled, has accused the court of bringing the country close to "judicial chaos." Opposition leader Raila Odinga and his supporters have turned their ire on the election board for its role in the cancelled poll. With 10 days to go until a scheduled re-run of the vote, politicians from both sides have traded insults and accusations, raising fears of further turmoil in the regional economic and transport hub. The opposition is threatening to boycott the October 26 re-run if election board officials are not removed and if parliament passes a proposed amendment to the election law that would prevent the court from annulling the results again. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Two killed in Doti bus collision Two passengers were killed and 15 others injured critically when two buses collided head-on at Jorayal Rural Municipality-1 along the Bhimdutta Highway in Doti district. Spain gives Catalonia until Thursday to clear position on independence Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 10:58AM Spain has issued a new ultimatum for Catalonia to clarify its position on independence, warning that Madrid will take control of the autonomous region if regional leader Carles Puigdemont fails to stop the secession bid by Thursday. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria said Puigdemont had until 10:00 a.m. (0800 GMT) Thursday to "return to legality" and make his intentions clear. The new ultimatum came shortly after Catalonia missed the Monday deadline to clarify whether it would separate from mainland Spain as a result of the controversial referendum held in the region on October 1. "The government regrets that the president of the Catalan government has decided not to respond to the request made by the government," she added. "Mr. Puigdemont still has the opportunity to start resolving this situation. He must answer 'yes' or 'no' to the declaration." She further warned that Spain would be allowed, under Article 155 of the Constitution, to take over parts of Catalonia's self-governance if Barcelona refuses to clarify its position. The Catalan leader made a symbolic declaration of independence last Tuesday, but suspended it shortly afterwards and called for talks with the central government on the fate of the region. The government of Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy then gave him until Monday 10:00 a.m. local time to clarify his position on independence simply with 'Yes' or 'No.' However, in a letter sent to the central government earlier today, Puigdemont stopped short of giving a clear answer and, instead, called for negotiations on the issue. During the Monday press conference, Rajoy's deputy rejected Puigdemont's call for dialog as "not credible," stressing that Spain's national parliament is the place to talk. "I don't think it's believable for anyone that President Puigdemont calls for dialogue in the name of Catalonia when he refuses to debate his position in parliament and when he has been imposing his position on the entire population," she said. Commenting on the letter earlier in the day, Foreign Minister Alfonso Dastis said Puigdemont "has not responded, has not given the clarity we asked of him." Puigdemont wrote that his "suspension of the political mandate given by the polls on October 1st demonstrates our firm will to find a solution and not confrontation." "For the next two months, our main objective is to bring you to dialog," the letter said. Justice Minister Rafael Catala also said the response to Madrid's inquiry is not valid. Tensions have been running high between Madrid and Barcelona since October 1st, when Puigdemont's government defied Spanish authorities by staging the vote. Spain views the vote as illegal. Fewer than half of eligible voters participated, but roughly 90 percent of those who did supported secession. At home, the Catalan president is under pressure by key allies and pro-independence parties to declare full independence from Madrid and ignore a threat of direct rule from the Spanish government. "If (the central Madrid government) wants to continue to threaten and gag us, they should do it to the Republic that has already been claimed," the far-left Catalan CUP Party said last week. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippine army kills two Daesh militant leaders in push to free Marawi Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 08:07AM Philippine troops have killed two senior militant leaders affiliated with the notorious Daesh terror group as they press ahead with an operation to liberate the southern militant-held city of Marawi. Isnilon Hapilon, Daesh's "emir" in Southeast Asia, and Omarkhayam Maute, one of two brothers at the helm of the Takfiri Maute militant group, were killed in a raid on a building in Marawi, the Philippine Defense Ministry said. "We were able to get a testimony from a hostage. She was able to confirm the presence of Isnilon and Maute in that particular building. That's the building that we assaulted early this morning," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters on Monday. Lorenzana added that the battle for Marawi could be over imminently, adding that 17 hostages were rescued on Monday. "The indication here is that the Marawi incident is close to the end. We may announce the termination of hostilities in the couple of days." Another senior Daesh leader, Abdullah Maute, the group's military commander, was reported by the army to have been killed in August. The elimination of the two militant leaders has been cited as a major victory for the Filipino military, which has been criticized for its slow progress in retaking Marawi. Hundreds of armed extremists launched an offensive in Marawi on May 23. The Philippine military says Hapilon joined forces with the Maute group to plan the rampage. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte then deployed thousands of troops and imposed martial law across the southern third of the country to deal with the crisis. The country's armed forces are conducting ground and aerial operations to free the city. Since late May, more than 1,000 people have been killed and 400,000 residents displaced from the conflict zone. Rommel Banlaoi, head of the Philippine Institute for Political Violence and Terrorism Research, said Monday's operation was a "tremendous setback" to the Daesh-linked groups in the region, but warned the battle against extremism was far from over. "The death of the two leaders shall not make our law enforcement complacent," he told news channel ANC. "We have seen many times in the past, the death of key leaders will not prevent the terrorist organizations from wreaking havoc." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ruling Venezuela party claims election victory, opposition rejects results Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 07:01AM Venezuela's election officials say the Socialist Party of President Nicolas Maduro has won a landslide victory in regional elections, in results that were rejected by the opposition as fraudulent. Maduro's party won 17 out of the 23 governorships up for grab in the Sunday elections, among them populous Miranda State, which includes parts of the capital, Caracas, announced the head of Venezuela's National Electoral Council, Tibisay Lucena, late Sunday. Lucena said 61 percent of the nation's 18 million eligible voters participated in the elections, adding that the results are irreversible in all the states but one, where the race is too close to announce a winner for now. The ruling party had previously controlled 20 of the 23 states. The right-wing Democratic Unity Coalition also secured five state governorshipstwo more than they took in the 2012 elections. Among the states that went to the opposition are Merida and Tachira as well as the oil-producing region of Zulia. President Maduro hailed the results as an "emphatic victory" over his rivals. "We have 17 governorships, 54 percent of the votes, 61 percent participation, 75 percent of the governorates, and the country has strengthened," said the president. He also called on government supporters to celebrate "in peace, with respect to the adversary." The Venezuelan leader added that he had sent a message to opposition leader Julio Borges, asking him to "abide by the transparent results." Opposition cries foul The coalition, however, refused to recognize the results and urged a complete audit. "These results are unbelievable and inexplicable," said opposition spokesman Ramon Aveledo. "We don't recognize today's results given by the National Electoral Council today," said the Democratic Unity'' election campaign chief, Gerardo Blyde. "It is a system for cheating. It is not transparent and represents a state of abuse by those who hold power. It is an unequal election process, with unbalanced results that do not reflect reality. No Venezuelan, nor the world is going to swallow the story from the government who can't explain these results," he added. He called on the party's candidates to lead "street activities" and hold protests over the results on Monday. The opposition had claimed in the lead-up to the vote, that confusing ballots as well as a last-minute decision by election officials to relocate over 200 voting centers could affect the vote. Venezuela's election body, however, told reporters that voting centers opened in record time, and that they had very few problems with electricity and voting machines. The opposition's refusal to accept the results raised the prospect of more unrest in the country, which was the scene of months-long opposition protests earlier this year. The unrest left at least 125 people from both camps dead and hundreds of others injuries. The violence also led to thousand of arrests and caused widespread property destruction across the country, which is grappling with an economic crisis. Venezuela held a vote on July 30 to elect a new institution called the Constituent Assembly, which replaced the opposition-led National Assembly. The new body gave Maduro the power to rewrite Venezuela's constitution. Maduro has now called on all governors, including the five new opposition ones, to swear allegiance to the Constituent Assembly. The opposition, however, does not recognize the body. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armenian, Azerbaijani Presidents Hold 'Constructive' Talks On Karabakh RFE/RL October 16, 2017 The Armenian and Azerbaijani presidents have discussed a possible settlement of the conflict over Azerbaijan's breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh at a meeting In Geneva. Serzh Sarkisian of Armenia and Azerbaijan's Ilham Aliyev held talks on October 16 under the auspices of the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). A joint statement issued after the talks by the Armenian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers and the co-chairs of the Minsk Group (France, Russia, and the United States) said that "the meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere." "The presidents agreed to take measures to intensify the negotiation process and to take additional steps to reduce tensions on the Line of Contact," the statement said. "The co-chairs expressed their satisfaction with these direct talks, which took place after a long interval. They remain ready to work with the sides on mediating a peacefully negotiated settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. As a next step, the co-chairs will organize working sessions with the Ministers in the near future," the statement added. The two presidents also held face-to-face talks, Sarkisan's press secretary Vladimir Hakobian wrote on Twitter. The talks took place after the meeting of the two presidents, which was also attended by Foreign Ministers Edward Nalbandian (Armenia) and Elmar Mammadyarov (Azerbaijan); the co-chairs of the Minsk Group, Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States; as well as the OSCE chairman in office, Andrzej Kasprzyk. Azerbaijan and Armenia have been locked in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh for years. The region, populated mainly by ethnic Armenians, declared independence from Azerbaijan amid a 1988-94 war that killed about 30,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands. Internationally mediated negotiations with the involvement of the Minsk Group have failed to result in a resolution. At June 2016 talks in St. Petersburg, Russia, Sarkisian and Aliyev expressed readiness to seek a peaceful solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The last meeting mediated by the Minsk Group co-chairs took place in Vienna in May 2016. It followed a truce in April that halted four days of fierce fighting in and around Nagorno-Karabakh between Armenia-backed separatists and Azerbaijan's military. About 75 soldiers from both sides were killed in April, along with several civilians. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-azerbaijan- nagorno-karabakh-talks/28797554.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 Kyrgyz Candidate Alleges Violations In Presidential Vote, But Suggests He Will Accept Official Results RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service October 16, 2017 BISHKEK -- The chief rival of the candidate authorities say won the presidency in Kyrgyzstan has alleged the voting was marred by violations but suggested he would not challenge the official result, potentially paving the way for a peaceful transfer of power. Omurbek Babanov spoke at a news conference on October 16, hours after the Central Election Commission said preliminary results indicated ruling party candidate Sooronbai Jeenbekov won more than 54 percent of the vote -- enough to avoid a runoff. International observers, meanwhile, praised the vote as competitive and transparent but said that "numerous and significant problems were noted" during the count and that "misuse of public resources, pressure on voters, and vote-buying remain a concern." Babanov, who the commission placed second with just under 34 percent according to an initial count of nearly all ballots, said that he and his backers faced pressure and bias throughout the campaign. "State television channels were used to pour dirt on us. There was a black PR [campaign] against us. Our campaign activists were abused; they did not know whom to turn to as law enforcement was also one-sided," Babanov said. However, he said, "The election has taken place, and the people have made their choice." Confirmation of the results and a smooth transition would mark the first peaceful handover of power from one elected president to another in the any Central Asian country since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Presidents were driven from power by street protests in Kyrgyzstan in 2005 and 2010, and for more than two decades only the death of a president in office has ushered in a new leader in any of the other four countries. "Kyrgyzstan has demonstrated a generally positive example for holding competitive elections and a peaceful transfer of power, but some concerns remain," said Azay Guliyev, leader of the short-term observation mission from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE ODIHR). "Our mission received credible reports about the misuse of public resources and pressure on voters, as well as allegations of vote-buying," said Alexandre Keltchewsky, the overall head of the ODIHR mission. He said that in the run-up to election day, monitors "observed several cases of open and official interference in the election campaign from the State Committee of National Security and other official institutions and other officials as well." Keltchewsky also said there were indications of Central Election Commission members "favoring certain candidates, thus demonstrating the CEC's lack of impartiality." Babanov said that his campaign workers are currently conducting an "alternative" vote count and that information from some polling precincts is not available, but he said that "even if it was available, they would not affect the official result." "Despite the administrative pressure, many voters supported me and I am very thankful to them," he said. Answering a question about reports saying that his supporters might be planning mass protests, Babanov said he had nothing to do with any such plans. "I call on all my supporters to stay away from any illegal actions," Babanov said. In the northern city of Talas, in Babanov's home region, hundreds of his supporters demonstrated near his campaign headquarters and marched across the city holding Kyrgyz national flags. They said the election was not transparent. A handover to Jeenbekov, 58, could herald a continuation of the policies of outgoing President Almazbek Atambaev, who has close ties with Moscow and brought Kyrgyzstan into a Russian-led economic alliance in 2015. "My task is to preserve what has been achieved, to strengthen what has been started," Jeenbekov, said shortly after the preliminary results were announced on October 15. He praised what he said were the predominantly Muslim county of 6 million's "great achievements and developments in all sectors in the past six years," referring to Atambaev's term. Both Jeenbekov and Babanov served as prime minister under Atambaev but the outgoing president vocally backed Jeenbekov, prompting accusations from critics that he abused the levers of power to ensure victory for his favored candidate. Analysts and opposition politicians had predicted a closer race, and opinion polls had suggested that neither man would clear the 50 percent threshold, forcing a runoff. A total of 11 candidates, including one woman, were on the ballot to replace Atambaev, who was constitutionally barred from running for a second term. Underscoring the animus in the election, Jeenbekov was asked whether he would ask Babanov to join his team. He responded that he "never had such intention." Amid concerns of potential unrest and political confrontation, Temir Sariev, another candidate who is also a former prime minister, said on October 15 that "there shouldn't be any tension" in the country and added: "The election must finish tonight." Jeenbekov, who stepped down as prime minister in late August to focus on the presidential race, used his political leverage and support from the incumbent to wage a heated battle with the 47-year-old Babanov, a wealthy entrepreneur and former oil trader from the northern province of Talas. Atambaev had unleashed a series of accusations as the vote approached, claiming that opponents were plotting unrest and accusing larger northern neighbor Kazakhstan and its long-ruling president, Nursultan Nazarbaev, of interfering in the campaign and backing Babanov. He warned on October 15 that the authorities "have jailed and will continue to jail" those planning unrest "so that they don't spoil our celebration." Government critics say the campaign was marred by a bribe-taking conviction and eight-year prison sentence handed down to opposition Ata-Meken (Fatherland) party leader Omurbek Tekebaev in August after a trial he said was politically motivated. Meanwhile, the government accused Babanov of trying to buy votes and late last month it detained one of his supporters, saying there were efforts to plot a coup during the election. Babanov has denied the accusations and in turn alleged the government has used "administrative resources" -- the political levers held by those who control power and budget funds -- against his candidacy and in favor of Jeenbekov. Russia, which has an air base in Kyrgyzstan and is vying for clout in Central Asia with economic powerhouse China as well as the West, stayed neutral on the surface during the campaign. The main candidates were all seen as friendly to Russia. A meeting at which Kyrgyz officials say Nazarbaev endorsed Babanov added tension to the campaign. Atambaev said in a speech that Kazakhstan was ruled by corrupt "sultans" and later called an unnamed leading contender in the elections a "flunky" of a foreign country. Kazakhstan's government called the remarks "unacceptable" and introduced tighter controls this week on the Kyrgyz border, citing security concerns. With reporting by AFP, Reuters, and RFE/RL correspondent Alan Crosby Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyzstan -presidency-election-jeenbekov- babanov/28797147.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 Ready to Go at 50 Below? F-35 Heads To Alaska For Cold Weather Testing Sputnik News 22:16 16.10.2017(updated 22:18 16.10.2017) The US Air Force has marshalled an F-35 joint strike fighter to an Alaskan air base to test the aircraft's ability to land on icy runways. The F-35 simulated flight conditions ranging from 40 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit at Eglin Air Force Base in Valparaiso, Florida, where the fifth-generation fighter's "oil did not flow as well" in tests simulating cold temperatures, F-35 Joint Program Office spokesman Joe DellaVedova told Defense Tech January 30, 2015. A single F-35A, the US Air Force variant, arrived at Eielson Air Force Base near Fairbanks, Alaska, last Thursday, to demonstrate the plane's ability to land on a runway surface similar to ice. The Air Force assigns landing strips Runway Condition Readings (RCR) ranging from 5 to 23, where an RCR of 23 designates a dry runway and a 5 indicates conditions roughly equivalent to landing on ice, an air force statement says. So far the F-35 has been certified to land on runways with a reading of 12, but Thursday's test evaluated conditions of an RCR of 7. Support teams "try to keep our runway at an RCR of 12 or better during harsh winters, but often are below that," says USAF Capt. Daniel Campbell. "We need the lower RCR certifications to ensure the F-35A can operate throughout our winters," the captain said. The second main outcome the service hopes to achieve is certifying the plane's "Norwegian drag chute" braking system, the US Air Force's 354th Wing Public Affairs Office said October 13. The tests seem to be a first step toward verifying F-35 aircraft can live up to Eielson Air Force Base's motto: "ready to go at 50 below." According to former US Marine Corps officer Carlton Meyer's G2mil Quarterly, "drag chutes can help stop aircraft in nearly all landing emergencies before they run off the end of a runway or into other aircraft." The military plans to station two squadrons of F-35As at Eielson AFB by 2020. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Massive US-South Korean Naval War Games Begin Near Korean Peninsula Sputnik News 22:05 16.10.2017 The US and South Korean navies have kicked off a five-day round of military drills, the type of exercise that North Korea has previously responded with ballistic missile tests. Guided-missile destroyers USS Stetham and USS Mustin and supercarrier USS Ronald Reagan will join several South Korean ships as part of the Maritime Counter Special Operations Exercise (MCSOFEX), the commander of the US Navy's Seventh fleet said. MCSOFEX is slated to last from Monday through Friday this week in both the Yellow Sea and Sea of Japan, Yonhap reports. A scheme to eliminate nuclear facilities belonging to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) with tactical nukes "is under consideration when the US is going to stage a high-intensity joint drill" in the waters surrounding the Korean Peninsula "with the mobilization involving nuclear carrier [USS] Ronald Reagan, Aegis destroyer, missile cruiser and Ohio-class strategic nuclear submarine carrying nuclear missiles," according to a October 17 KCNA report. "The Trump group should think twice about what terrible consequences the US will face due to its scheme for nuclear attack on the DPRK," the North Korean state-run news agency said, adding that the "reckless military gambling against the DPRK" may result in the "total destruction" of the US. Last Friday, the nuclear-armed USS Michigan submarine arrived in Busan, South Korea for a "routine visit," the US Pacific fleet said. North Korea renewed a promise to target the US territory of Guam with a "salvo of missiles" in the event the US attacks the DRPK. On Sunday, US Forces Korea announced that it would coordinate with the US State Department and South Korean military in a drill to evacuate non-combatant American citizens from South Korea dubbed" Courageous Channel." "Although not directly tied to current geopolitical events, our forces must be ready in all areas, to include systems and personnel annually exercised in Courageous Channel," USFK Gen. Vincent K. Brooks said in a news release. Meanwhile, from October 17-22 US Air Force F-22 Raptors, a non-nuclear B-1B Lancer bomber, and other high profile military assets will be in Seoul for an air show, where "approximately 200 US personnel are expected to participate," the 7th Air Force said, according to Yonhap. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Starts Kalashnikov Assault Rifle Deliveries to Philippines Sputnik News 13:10 16.10.2017(updated 13:28 16.10.2017) After Philippines President expressed interest in purchasing Russian arms during a meeting with President Vladimir Putin earlier this year, the deliveries of Kalashnikov rifles has already begun. The move came as the Philippines has refused to buy new weapons from Washington. MOSCOW (Sputnik) Russia is beginning to implement the agreement on the supply of Kalashnikov assault rifles to the Philippines, a defense industry source told Sputnik on Monday. "Russia is beginning to implement the agreement on the supply of Kalashnikov assault rifles to the Philippines," the source said. Earlier Monday, the Philippines' Ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta told Sputnik that Russia was handing over to the Philippines free of charge 5,000 Kalashnikov assault rifles, 1 million cartridges and 20 military trucks, adding that the batch would arrive in the Philippines on October 22. Moscow and Manila have so far not signed a single contract on defense industry cooperation. At the same time, the Philippine side has had certain difficulties in purchasing new weapons from the United States as Washington is imposing certain conditions on Manila. In May during his visit to Russia to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte expressed Manila's interest in advanced Russian weapons, including helicopters, planes, as well as precision-guided weapons to help combat the terror threat. According to the country's ambassador, the Philippines could sign a series of arms delivery contracts with Russia by the end of the year. The country has also shown interest in Russia's anti-terror equipment amid the ongoing operation against a Daesh-linked terrorist group. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sweden Rings Alarm Bell Over Alleged Spying Attempts During NATO Exercise Sputnik News 12:38 16.10.2017 During Aurora 17, Sweden's largest military exercise in decades, a sharp increase in the number of reported spying threats has occurred, rekindling Sweden's preoccupation with the "Russian threat." Aurora 17, which was conducted on September 11-29 and seen as Sweden's largest military exercise in 24 years, as well as a token of the non-aligned Nordic country's increasing cooperation with NATO, was reportedly exposed to a spike in spying attempts from foreign powers. "We have received a lot of security tips during Aurora 17. Without exaggerating, we can talk about at least a tenfold increase compared with what is considered normal," Swedish Armed Forces press secretary Jesper Tengroth told the Swedish daily Dagens Nyheter. Drones, Unauthorized Observers The reports featured drones seen over the training grounds, including on the island of Oland, as well as suspicious activities on the ground. The Swedish Armed Forces attributed the spike to the scope of the exercise, which drew a lot of interest, considering that the over 20,000 participating personnel were likely to discover more suspicious behavior. "We dislike it when people unentitled to take part in our actions nevertheless are suspected of doing so," Jepser Tengroth said. He also added that all cases of suspected intelligence gathering would be reported to Sweden's Security Police (SAPO), yet declined to comment on the exact number and the nature of the cases. Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist, who visited several of Aurora's arrangements, also commented on the issue. "During Aurora 17, people who wanted to photograph and familiarize themselves with what was going on have been noted. They reportedly approached our units to get a photograph of our equipment and how we work. These forces were unwilling to disclose who they really were," Peter Hultqvist said. "When I get this type of behavior reported to me, I get an impression that these are attempts of spying," he added. In a case reported by Dagens Nyheter, a person in a car registered in an "eastern state" was encountered during the exercise. The stranger's explanation for his stay in the area was not considered credible. On the island of Oland, suspicious foreign motorhomes were spotted at the same time as the US Patriot air defense system was stationed there, the local newspaper Olandsbladet reported. "Russian Connection" Springs to Mind Hultqvist argued that such behavior is something Sweden "recognized from past eras," drawing comparisons with intensive intelligence activities undertaken by the Warsaw Pact countries. Although no concrete evidence has been presented, Sweden's Defense College strategic analyst Stefan Ring also hinted Russia may be behind the spying. "We have invited observers to Aurora, but I believe Russia's interests go significantly deeper than just sending observers who can only perceive a limited amount of information. I can imagine that besides observer activity on legal grounds, there was also illegal spying to obtain information that could not be accessed otherwise," Stefan Ring told Swedish national broadcaster SVT. However, Ring was not at all surprised by the alleged spying reports and dismissed them as "natural." "It is quite natural that spying is carried out during a defense exercise of this size. It would have been strange if such attempts had not occurred," Stefan Ring said. Aurora 17 was a Swedish national defense exercise featuring all of Sweden's combat forces, the nation's largest since 1993. The drills, whose scenario featured an attack by a fictitious superpower from the east bearing strong resemblance with Russia, involved 21,500 troops and 40 civilian authorities. In addition to the host nation Sweden, seven other countries were invited to participate. The US accounted for the largest foreign element, aided by fellow NATO countries France, Estonia, Lithuania, Denmark and Norway, as well as Sweden's non-aligned neighbor Finland. Top Secret Drills With US Part of the exercise was top secret, conducted only with elite troops from Sweden, Finland and the US, which marked the first instance of such cooperation. The US reportedly contributed a tiltrotor military aircraft of the CV-22 Osprey class, whereas Sweden engaged their Special Operations Group (SOG). "We had a multinational force and moved over large areas of the ground, in the air and at sea. We acted very actively and solved many and difficult assignments within the framework of our duties and qualified intelligence gathering, and I believe we failed to draw any attention to us," SOG chief told Dagens Nyheter. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia, Bahrain in Talks on S-400 System's Supplies - Royal Guard Commander Sputnik News 12:38 16.10.2017(updated 13:08 16.10.2017) Just over than a week after Russia and Saudi Arabia agreed on S-400 supplies, another Middle Eastern country has expressed interest in the air defense systems. MANAMA (Sputnik) Bahrain and Russia are in talks on supplies of Russia's S-400 air defense systems, Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the commander of Bahrain's Royal Guard, said Monday. "We are currently in the stage of negotiations, but with god's help we will finish this process," he told reporters at the BIDEC expo. "Bahrain and Russia have established broad cooperation in the military sector. Meetings are being held, negotiations are taking place, relations have also been established between the leadership of two countries. We would like to strengthen our relations and increase the amount of Russian weapons in Bahrain's defense forces." The statement comes as Russia and Saudi Arabia have agreed on S-400 supplies during the "landmark" visit by the Saudi King to Moscow earlier this month. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on October 9 that that the deal to supply Saudi Arabia with S-400 SAMs has good prospects. Meanwhile, Vladimir Kozhin, Russia's presidential aide tasked with military technical cooperation, said that the S-400 deal with the Saudis would take place "In the very near future," adding that "now there are negotiations, coordination." Another regional state, Turkey has already made the first payment for the air defense systems. On September 12, Moscow and Ankara reached an agreement on the delivery of S-400 systems to Turkey. The S-400 Triumph is Russia's next-generation mobile surface-to-air missile system carrying three different types of missiles capable of destroying aerial targets at a short-to-extremely-long range. It integrates a multifunctional radar, autonomous detection and targeting systems, anti-aircraft missile systems, launchers, and a command and control center. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Unite to ensure free, fair elections: Prez tells parties President Bidya Devi Bhandari has stressed the need for unity among the parties for ensuring free and fair elections to the federal and provincial parliaments. Mogadishu Blast Toll Tops 300 By Harun Maruf October 16, 2017 The death toll in the Somali capital Mogadishu has topped 300 as rescue teams continue to search for survivors from a massive explosion blamed on Islamist militants. Dr. Abdulkadir Adam, head of Mogadishu ambulance services, tells VOA Somali that 302 people are confirmed dead from the blast, which struck a busy intersection in the Somali capital late Saturday. The government says 429 injured people have been taken to local hospitals, and that the death toll is likely to rise. More than 30 badly wounded patients were flown to Turkey on Monday for treatment, including VOA Somali reporter Abdulkadir Mohamed Abdulle. There has been no claim of responsibility but Somali government officials and terrorism experts strongly believe that al-Shabab militants were behind the explosion. "Whether they claim or not claim makes no difference, we know the act that has happened, it's al-Shabab," former intelligence officer Abdi Hassan Hussein told VOA. "The information we are getting so far shows this is the work of al-Shabab, it has their hallmarks." The group has stayed silent since the blast but has killed hundreds of people in recent years through attacks on Mogadishu hotels, restaurants and other public areas. Former al-Shabab leader condemns attack Monday, a former top leader of al-Shabab condemned the explosion. Mukhtar Robow, al-Shabab's former deputy emir, called the attack "barbaric" and "a massive tragedy." "Those who are behind this, whose fingerprints are on this, must refrain from shedding the blood of Muslims and repent. You are not going to go to paradise by killing innocents," he told reporters. "People who are doing this must stop... I mean al-Shabab," he said. Robow, who recently defected to the government, was a founder of al-Shabab and the number-two leader of the group as it fought the government and African Union forces for control of Mogadishu between 2007 and 2011. During that time, the group carried out several deadly suicide attacks on Mogadishu hotels, most notably a 2010 attack on the Hotel Muna that killed 33 people, including six members of parliament. Rally against al-Shabab Hundreds of residents on Sunday marched to the scene of the attack, condemning the militant group. Some protesters wept as they reached the scene and saw the apocalyptic aftermath of the explosion. The truck bomb turned one of Mogadishu's most beautiful junctions into death and destruction. Mogadishu's hospitals have been struggling to treat the badly burned victims. "This is really horrendous, unlike any other time in the past," said Dr. Mohamed Yusuf, the director of Medina hospital. Yusuf described what happened after the explosion Saturday afternoon. "We were preparing to leave work for the day but then huge blast occurred, we were shocked, within five minutes ambulances brought in the wounded," he said. "We have received many dead people, unlike we have ever seen. The hospital is working, we are lacking intensive care equipment, we get support from ICRC but we are still lacking full capacity." The Somali government has called for three days of national mourning and lowering the flag at half-mast. In Washington, the U.S. State Department condemned the attack "in the strongest terms." "In the face of this senseless and cowardly act, the United States will continue to stand with the Somali government, its people, and our international allies to combat terrorism and support their efforts to achieve peace, security, and prosperity," a statement said. The victims Maryan Abdullahi, 21, just finished Banadir University where she studied medicine. She left her voluntary work at Banadir hospital Saturday and was waiting a bus when the explosion occurred. She was killed instantly. Her mother Hindo Yuusuf called her daughter's phone number as soon as she heard about the location of the explosion. "I called her number immediately but someone else answered and they said the owner of the phone died, her body is near the hotel [Safari]," she told VOA Somali. Abdullahi's father flew from London Saturday to attend his daughter's graduation from the university. He arrived in Mogadishu Sunday morning and attended her funeral instead. Also killed were five members of the same family who were running a clothing shop. Aweys Moallim Ali is a cousin to the family. He too was wounded in the attack. He said his relatives own two shops but they gathered into one before the explosion. "They were doing accounting work about the sales made so far so that they can make zakat [alms] payment. They closed the other shop and were meeting in a shop near Hotel Safari," he said> VOA's Fern Robinson and Dan Joseph contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kisumu Protesters Renew Pressure on Kenya's Electoral Commission By Mohammed Yusuf October 16, 2017 Protesters in the Kenyan city of Kisumu defied a local government ban on rallies Monday to demand reforms in the country's electoral commission. This is the fourth Monday in a row demonstrators have marched on the commission's offices. The morning was relatively peaceful when protesters marched to the offices of the electoral commission offices in Kisumu's city center. But in the afternoon, police used teargas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. One person was killed. John Omondi, a local businessman, was among those rallying in support of opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga. "We are in the street because we want change in Kenya, because Raila Amolo Odinga has fought for change for so long and we have not managed or [have been] able to get that change. We will still push on for the demonstration so that we get that change," Omondi said. Kisumu is Odinga's hometown and he enjoys strong support in the city. Odinga, who ran against incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta in an August election, challenged Kenyatta's win in the poll. The Supreme Court overturned the results, saying they were neither transparent or verifiable. The court ordered the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, or IEBC, to conduct a re-run election within 60 days of its September 1 ruling. Since then, Odinga has demanded the commission fire members who were allegedly involved in the August electoral irregularities. The commission has said it has no time to make personnel changes. Last week Odinga withdrew from the October 26 re-run election blaming the commission and the ruling Jubilee party of planning to rig the vote. Protester Omondi said Odinga has not gone away from the country's political scene. "The fact that Raila Odinga withdrew from the presidential race doesn't mean that he withdrew it completely because he is still waiting for reforms at the IEBC and when any change takes place at the IEBC he still will be in the race," Omondi said. However, the opposition has vowed to continue with its weekly protests at the commission offices. Protester Joseph Otieno says more pressure must be put on the electoral commission. "This demonstration is not that big as we wanted it. We want one that will take place every day and night. This is a joke and the only way we can get change is pushing for daily demonstrations." Meanwhile, Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have accused Kenya's police of killing 33 people while breaking up post-election protests. In a report titled "Kenya: Kill those criminals: Security forces violations in Kenya's August 2017 elections," Amnesty documents what it calls the use of excessive force by authorities in quelling protests in opposition areas. Police have previously denied killing protesters. The Interior Ministry did acknowledge nine people have died since August and three more on Friday in Bondo, in the west of the country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Catalonia's President Response on Secession not Acceptable to Madrid By VOA News October 16, 2017 The president of Spain's region of Catalonia has responded to a Monday deadline, failing to clarify whether he will push ahead with efforts for the region to break away from Madrid and signaling that the secession crisis is far from over. The Spanish government had given Catalonian leader Carles Puigdemont until Monday to provide a simple "yes" or "no" answer. In a letter, Puigdemont told Spanish President Mariano Rajoy secessionists want to suspend initiating steps towards independence for two months. "For the next two months, our main objective is to bring you to dialogue," Puigdemont wrote. Following an independence referendum on October 1, Puigdemont said last week he was prepared for Catalonia to "become an independent state," despite a court ruling that declared such a move would be unconstitutional. But Puigdemont immediately said he was suspending the secession drive to allow time for negotiations with Madrid. The contradictory statements prompted Rajoy to give Puigdemont until 10 a.m. (0800 UTC) Monday to clarify his position with a simple "yes" or "no" answer. Rajoy said Madrid was ready to suspend the region's autonomy and begin to exercise direct control if Puigdemont decided to continue pressing for secession. Spanish officials had said they would consider anything other than a simple "no" answer an indication that the independence drive would continue and thus begin steps to strip Catalonia of its autonomy. After receiving Puigdemont's letter Monday, Spanish leaders indicated they would treat his reply as a "yes." "He has not answered the question clearly," said Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria at news conference Monday. Saenz de Santamaria said the government would now give Puigdemont until Thursday to re-think his response. Also on Monday, Spain's state prosecutor called for Catalonia police chief Maj. Josep Lluis Trapero, who is on trial for sedition, to be jailed without bail. A judge will rule on the recommendation later Monday, Spain's High Court said. Catalonia, Spain's most prosperous region, is home to 7.5 million people, has its own language and distinct culture, and is deeply divided over independence. The Catalan government said that 90 percent of Catalans voted for independence from Spain in October 1 referendum. Many opponents of independence boycotted the vote, reducing turnout to around 43 percent. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Strikes Continue in Effort to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release SOUTHWEST ASIA, Oct. 17, 2017 U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting three strikes consisting of three engagements in recent days, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today. Officials reported details of the strikes, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports. Strike in Syria In Syria, coalition military forces conducted one strike consisting of one engagement Oct. 15 near Dayr Az Zawr, engaging an ISIS tactical unit and destroyed two fighting positions. Strikes in Iraq In Iraq yesterday, coalition military forces conducted two strikes consisting of two engagements against ISIS targets: -- Near Rahwa, a strike engaged an ISIS tactical unit and destroyed an improvised explosive device weapons facility. -- Near Qaim, a strike destroyed a vehicle-borne-IED factory. Part of Operation Inherent Resolve These strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to destroy ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The destruction of ISIS targets in Iraq and Syria also further limits the group's ability to project terror and conduct external operations throughout the region and the rest of the world, task force officials said. The list above contains all strikes conducted by fighter, attack, bomber, rotary-wing or remotely piloted aircraft; rocket-propelled artillery; and some ground-based tactical artillery when fired on planned targets, officials noted. Ground-based artillery fired in counterfire or in fire support to maneuver roles is not classified as a strike, they added. A strike, as defined by the coalition, refers to one or more kinetic engagements that occur in roughly the same geographic location to produce a single or cumulative effect. For example, task force officials explained, a single aircraft delivering a single weapon against a lone ISIS vehicle is one strike, but so is multiple aircraft delivering dozens of weapons against a group of ISIS-held buildings and weapon systems in a compound, having the cumulative effect of making that facility harder or impossible to use. Strike assessments are based on initial reports and may be refined, officials said. The task force does not report the number or type of aircraft employed in a strike, the number of munitions dropped in each strike, or the number of individual munition impact points against a target. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Operation Cold Steel: more vehicles, weapons, firepower By Debralee Best October 17, 2017 FORT MCCOY, Wis. -- For the U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers participating in Operation Cold Steel II, which kicked off Oct. 12, 2017 at Fort Hunter Liggett, California, the exercise served as more than just a routine crew-served weapons qualification and validation exercise. For these troops, the exercise reaffirmed their ability to train and deploy on short notice and bring combat-ready and lethal firepower in support of the Army and its allies anywhere in the world. The second iteration of the operation is planned for a larger scale, both in locations and in the number of Troop List Units, running from Oct. 12, 2017 to Aug. 31, 2018 at Fort Hunter Liggett; Fort McCoy, Wisconsin; Fort Knox, Kentucky; and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, with approximately 3,800 crews of 10,000 Soldiers from across the Army Reserve conducting mounted and ground crew-served weapons qualification. "OCS II is far larger and more ambitious than OCS I owing to three main factors: it has been expanded to include collective live fire; it has been synchronized with (Combat Support Training Exercises) to provide trained gun and vehicle crews at specific times and it is being conducted at four installation over the course of (fiscal year) 18," said Maj. Ryan Gore, Task Force OCS II operations officer-in-charge. During the months of April and May, 2017, an estimated 1,800 Army Reserve Soldiers from approximately 60 Army Reserve units participated in the U.S. Army Reserve Command's inaugural Operation Cold Steel, hosted by the 84th Training Command. The purpose of Operation Cold Steel was to create a more deployable, combat ready and lethal fighting force within the Army Reserve by training and qualifying participating units on the crew-served weapons within the Army arsenal. More than 450 weapons crews were trained and certified over the seven-week duration of OCS. The exercise executed crew-served weapons platform qualifications through multiple 12-day rotations, with Soldiers qualifying on Mark 19 40 mm grenade machine gun, M240B machine gun and M2 machine gun weapons systems. The first Operation Cold Steel was a successful proof of principle, concluding with a qualification rate of 93 percent. The 84th Training Command, through TF OCS II, will provide oversight of each executing agent unit conducting the training. Task Force Coyote will be led by the 79th Theater Support Command, at Fort Hunter Liggett, from October to December, 2017. The 416th Theater Engineer Company will lead Task Force Triad at Fort McCoy from February to May 2018. The 377th TSC will head Task Force Bullion and fire at Fort Knox, March to May 2018. U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne) will lead Task Force Ultimate and conduct gunnery operations at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst from July to August 2018. "Specifically, it will focus on crew-served weapon and platform qualification as well as collective live-fire training to enhance the readiness of selected units. Additionally, it provides a platform for Soldiers to be trained as Vehicle Crew Evaluators and gain practical experience so they can effectively preform in this capacity at their units," said Gore. "Finally, it teams newly-trained Army Reserve Master Gunner Common Core graduates with seasoned active-component Master Gunners to build the bench that will enable units in the Army Reserve to conduct gunnery autonomously at the unit level in the coming years." According to Gore, this combination of training is designed for units to become self-sufficient in completing this training on their own. "We at OCS II are trying to work ourselves out of a job," said Gore. At Triad and Bullion, U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers will train and qualify on the MK-19, M240B, M2 and M249 light machine gun weapon platforms mounted to various military vehicles, including Humvees, Medium Tactical Vehicles, Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Trucks, and Heavy Equipment Transports. Crews at Bullion will feed into a Bridge CSTX, providing trained gunnery crews for the exercise. At Coyote and Ultimate, Soldiers will conduct ground training and qualification with the weapon platforms. Ultimately, the goal of OCS at all locations is to improve the readiness within the Army Reserve to deploy and fight in any contingency. "Operation Cold Steel is a training event that helps to ensure Army Reserve units and Soldiers are trained and ready to deploy on short notice and bring combat-ready and lethal firepower in support of the joint force anywhere in the world," said Col. Phillip A. Taylor, TF OCS II commander. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Army aims to keep supply chain churning, says Gen. Perna By David Vergun, Army News Service October 17, 2017 WASHINGTON -- The Army relies on industry, as well as its own organic base, to repair and maintain weapons and equipment through the supply chain, said Gen. Gustave F. Perna. Over the last 16 years, however, that supply chain has "atrophied for many reasons," Perna said, "one of which was we didn't use certain types of equipment." Perna, commander of U.S. Army Materiel Command, spoke during a media roundtable, Oct. 10, at the Association of the U.S. Army's Annual Meeting and Exposition here. Abrams tanks, Bradleys and Strykers were not heavily used in Iraq and Afghanistan, particularly over the last eight years of counterinsurgency operations and advise, train and assist missions, he said. "When you don't use it, equipment doesn't break. When equipment doesn't break, you don't replace repair parts. When you don't replace repair parts, you don't buy them. Then industry doesn't stock them. The supply chain then atrophies," he explained. If the supply chain atrophies, parts are not available in time of dire need, such as during a surge or major operation, he said. It wasn't just the tanks, Bradleys and Strykers that were underused, however. Certain types of communications gear, weapons and logistic support systems were also not heavily used, most notably because the Army went to "white truck" or contractor-based logistics, in its forward operating bases, he said. One notable exception to the atrophy, he noted, is aviation. Over the course of the last 16 years, the demand for aviation was and still is very strong. Another cause of supply-chain atrophy, Perna said, relates to lack of funding to purchase parts and equipment. That is due to two causes: the 2011 Budget Control Act, plus several years of continuing resolutions in lieu of a budget. The U.S. Army Materiel Command's system of replenishment is funded through the Army working capital fund, he explained. "In order to use that money, you have to be able to sell what you have on hand," he said. "It's a business. So if there's not a big year of sell, then the next year you're penalized in that you have to demonstrate demand and requirement for that piece of property." When sequestration occurred in fiscal year 2013, there was no demand for repair parts and components and the supply chain was essentially shut down. It wasn't until the latter half of FY15 that the operation tempo increased significantly, thereby increasing demand for parts. In FY18 "we have double the amount of obligation authority we had in FY14" for parts and replenishment, he said, adding "I'm confident we can catch up to our requirements." The big caveat to this, he said, is if sequestration kicks in this winter. "The impact would be catastrophic," he said. PREPOSITIONED STOCKS Perna touched on a couple of other topics, including Army preposition stocks, or APS. Those APS are located around the world so that combatant commanders don't have to wait for equipment and supplies to cross oceans and continents from the U.S., should the need arise. U.S. Army Materiel Command is now "ensuring that equipment is configured for combat so that it has a shoot, move and communicate capability, ready to be issued to Soldiers within 96 hours of arrival," he said. The makeup of that equipment at each location is classified, but the Army chief of staff has given direction as to where he wants those munitions to be, given the levels and types of threats faced, he said. When equipment is reset, it gets repaired, new parts, and a complete overhaul. Besides that, it also receives all of the latest upgrades, Perna said. Gear in APS is first in line to receive that reset materiel, he said. "Soldiers drawing that equipment should have confidence in using that equipment and they know it's the best we have," he said. ORGANIC INDUSTRIAL BASE Perna said he's particularly proud of the "artisans" working at the 23 depots, arsenals and plants across the U.S., who are providing "incredible capability." Over the last 16 years of war, that workforce "brought equipment out of the fight and reset it, extending its life," he said, instead of creating "an iron mountain" junkyard. In terms of reset, it's sometimes cheaper to use commercial industry, he said. "They're a great partner. We need them with us. But we also need to maintain the capability of the depots. "You don't create a welder putting welds on a Stryker, Abrams or Bradley right out of high school," he said. "These are artisans who've been trained, who know how to put the welds on that will withstand blasts. So here's my question. Do you want to put your son or daughter in a tanks Bradley or Stryker that has a trained artisan doing that work or do you want to have the quickest and cheapest?" NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Four Nations Meet In Oman To Try To Restart Afghan Peace Talks October 17, 2017 Negotiators from Afghanistan, China, Pakistan and the United States met in Oman on October 16 to try to find ways of reviving peace talks with the Afghan Taliban. It was not clear whether any Taliban militants had joined the talks, which have so far failed to restart a peace process that collapsed in 2015. Taliban sources have said they would stay away from the discussions in Muscat, casting doubt on prospects for reviving the long-stalled negotiations. Pakistani officials said the talks had resumed on Pakistan's initiative. The Pakistani team was led by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua. The Afghan team, led by Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai, said the talks would focus on relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan and implementing Pakistan's commitments to fight terrorism. In Washington, a State Department official confirmed the meeting on October 16 took place but declined to provide any details. There was no immediate comment from China. The four-nation Quadrilateral Coordination Group, which last met in Islamabad in early 2016, has been trying to open a path to direct talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban, with little success. Amin Waqad, a close aide to Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and a senior member of the High Peace Council, said last week his country would participate in the Muscat meeting and that the Taliban representatives would also be there. The Taliban denied that they had received any invitation. The principal obstacle to negotiations has been the Taliban's refusal to attend after their last leader, Mullah Akhtar Mansur, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Pakistan last year. The United States wants Pakistan, which it accuses of harboring Afghan Taliban commanders, to exert more influence on the militants to bring them to the negotiating table. Pakistani officials deny sheltering Taliban militants and say their influence on the group has waned. Based on reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghansitan, RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal, dpa, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/four-nations-meet-oman-try-restart- afghan-peace-talks-taliban-pakistan/28798966.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 HRW Gives Kabul, Donors Failing Grade On Afghan Girls' Education RFE/RL October 17, 2017 Efforts by Kabul and international donors to educate girls in Afghanistan have "significantly faltered in recent years," according to Human Rights Watch (HRW). Sixteen years after the U.S.-led military intervention in Afghanistan ousted the Taliban from power, an estimated two-thirds of Afghan girls do not attend school, HRW said in a new report released on October 17. The 132-page report says efforts to educate girls have faltered as security in the country worsens and international donors disengage. The report -- titled I Won't Be A Doctor, And One Day You'll Be Sick: Girls' Access To Education In Afghanistan -- is based on 249 interviews with girls aged 11 to 18 from four provinces. More girls are attending school in Afghanistan today than under the Taliban, but the Western-backed Afghan government is far from reaching its stated goal of educating all of them. According to the government, 3.5 million children are out of school and 85 percent of them are girls. Only 37 percent of adolescent girls are literate, compared to 66 percent of adolescent boys. The obstacles girls face in Afghanistan to get an education are many, the HRW report says. In a country where co-ed education is nearly unheard of, Kabul provides fewer schools for girls than boys at both the elementary and high-school levels. Fewer than 20 percent of teachers are female in more than half of Afghanistan's provinces, HRW explains, creating a barrier for the many girls from families who won't allow them to be taught by a male. Many girls are forced to remain at home, HRW says, "due to discriminatory attitudes that do not value or permit their education." With one-third of girls marrying before 18, many are compelled to drop out of school. Despite the obstacles, many Afghan families are doing all they can to educate their daughters, the HRW report highlights. HRW interviewed families that moved across cities and even the country to find a school for their daughters, as well as others that separated to enable girls to study. In some cases, older brothers traveled to Iran to work illegally to pay school costs for their younger sisters back home. Even when school is free, there are other costs families face in sending their kids to school. And if forced by financial constraints, many families opt to send their sons instead of their daughters to school. About one-quarter of Afghan children work to help their families survive desperate poverty, and many girls weave, embroider, beg, or pick garbage rather than study. The Taliban and other insurgents now control or contest more than 40 percent of Afghanistan's districts. Fighting between Taliban and government forces has driven thousands of families from their homes and more than 1 million Afghans are internally displaced. In areas under their control, the Taliban often limits girls to only a few years of schooling or bans them from education altogether. In contested areas, girls seeking to attend school face heightened security threats. The conflict has been accompanied by lawlessness, as militias and criminal gangs have proliferated, and girls face threats including sexual harassment, kidnapping, and acid attacks, as well as targeted attacks and threats against girls' education, the HRW report said. International donors also come in for criticism. HRW applauded efforts by Kabul and donors to develop "community-based education," which is a network of classes, often held in homes, that allow children, particularly girls, to access education in communities far from a government school. But HRW pointed out that these specialized classes, funded by donors and implemented by NGOs, remain outside the government school system and are vulnerable to the vagaries of NGO funding. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/human-rights- watch-afghanistan-girls-education- failing-grade/28799203.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 Dozens Killed In Afghan Suicide, Gun Attacks RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan October 17, 2017 Afghan officials say two separate suicide and gun attacks on government forces have left at least 35 people dead. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the October 17 assault on a police compound in the southeastern city of Gardez, capital of Paktia Province bordering Pakistan, in which at least 20 people were killed and more than 100 others wounded. Fifteen security officials were also reported killed and 12 others wounded in an attack blamed on the Taliban in the neighboring province of Ghazni. The Interior Ministry said that two suicide bombers detonated cars filled with explosives outside the provincial police headquarters and its attached training center in Gardez, before gunmen launched an assault against the facilities. The ministry said the hourslong fighting ended when all five gunmen were killed by security forces. However, a senior police official said there were 11 attackers in total. Deputy Interior Minister Murad Ali Murad said that the dead included 21 police officers, including provincial police chief Toryal Abdiani, and 20 civilians. Following the attack, Afghanistan's Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah and acting Interior Minister Wais Barmak arrived in Paktia province. Local health official Hedayatullah Hameedi said that the casualties included "women, students, and police." Security officials told RFE/RL that provincial police chief Toryal Abdiani was among the dead. In Ghazni Province, officials said Taliban militants detonated an explosives-laden vehicle near a security compound in Andar district early on October 17 while others stormed the building. Provincial council member Amanullah Kamran said the attack targeted the premises of the district governor and police headquarters. Late on October 16, a suspected U.S. drone strike in Pakistan's northwestern Kurram tribal area, part of which borders Paktia, killed 20 militants, intelligence officials said. Officials said the site was a main center in the area for the Haqqani network, a group that has ties to the Afghan Taliban. The Western-backed government in Kabul is struggling to beat back insurgents in the wake of the exit of most NATO forces in 2014. U.S. President Donald Trump recently unveiled a strategy to try to defeat the militants, and officials said more than 3,000 additional U.S. troops are being sent to Afghanistan to reinforce the 11,000 already stationed there. With reporting by AFP, Reuters, AP, and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-gardez- attack-suicide-bombers-gunmen-police- training-center/28799280.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 Macedonia's Social Democrats Look To Deliver On European Promise Gordana Knezevic October 17, 2017 Macedonia's Social Democrats won an unexpectedly large share of the vote in municipal elections that essentially became a referendum on the country's future. That future, at least based on expectations recorded at the local level on October 15, is a European one. The ruling Social Democratic Union (SDSM) party headed by Prime Minister Zoran Zaev staved off a late run by its biggest rival, Nikola Gruevski's nationalist VMRO-DPMNE party, which seemed on the eve of the vote to be poised for a strong showing. Gruevski was countering the Brussels-leaning vision of the SDSM by offering a return to a supposedly better past. But in the end it was Zaev who won the day, in large part due to the support of urban voters who endorsed the sitting government's pro-Western agenda. It marked another setback for the VMRO-DPMNE, which in December 2016's parliamentary elections failed to win enough seats to form the government for the first time in a decade. During the campaign, Zaev promised that Macedonia would become the 30th member of NATO, and would push for negotiations to join the European Union. It has been a candidate for accession to the EU since 2005, but the goal is to enter accession negotiations despite the bloc's vow not to expand in the near future. The Social Democrats won a majority in almost 50 of a total of 81 municipalities, including the capital, Skopje. Their coalition partner, the ethnic Albanian Democratic Union for Integration (DUI), won in 12 municipalities. By contrast, Gruevski's party -- which dominated all levels of government for more than a decade and is still the biggest party in parliament -- triumphed in only nine municipalities. Zaev sent a message to the newly elected mayors that the era of "local sheriffs" running their own show had ended, and that the government would expect them to act with integrity. "I appeal for honesty, dedication, and responsibility. I demand a responsible local and central government," Zaev said. "I feel great joy, but the weight of responsibility is equally great." Shifting Landscape Andrea Stojkovski tweeted that the election results would put the wind back in the sail of democratic reforms -- which, along with hammering out a solution with Greece on its long-contentious name issue, are required of Macedonia if it hopes to move forward on its road to NATO membership -- but also brought a mountain of obligations. Marko Trosanovski of the Macedonian Institute for Democracy tries to explain the significance of the Social Democrats winning at the local level. "In the parliamentary elections people calculated that it was safer to vote for those already in power, fearing revenge and some kind of sanction from the then-ruling VMRO-DPMNE." However, the narrow and against-all-odds win by Zaev's Social Democrats in December changed the playing field. "Our research in the institute shows that voters not only in Macedonia but in other Balkan countries have the tendency to side with winners," Troshanovski told RFE/RL in Skopje. Political analyst Alaydin Demiri believes the message of the local elections is clear, and that the Social Democrats will feel emboldened enough to call new parliamentary elections in the spring. "It should not be forgotten that the real winner of last year's parliamentary elections was VMRO-DPMNE [as the largest single party, despite being unable to form a government], and that the ruling SDSM's hold on power is precarious and requires a more resounding electoral victory," Demiri says. Troshanovski agrees that early parliamentary elections are now more likely. Jailed Whistle-Blower The VMRO-DPMNE, meanwhile, has questioned the validity of the local elections, which saw it lose control of a host of municipalities. Party leader and former Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski said the October 15 vote "took place in an undemocratic atmosphere and in unfair conditions." It has been said that failure is always an orphan, while victory has many fathers. One of the "fathers" in this case is surely former Macedonian security official Gjorgi Lazarevski, one of three agents who leaked information about the illegal wiretapping of ordinary citizens carried out without warrants at the order of Gruevski when he was prime minister. Macedonia entered a full-blown crisis in 2015 after opposition parties accused Gruevski and his counterintelligence chief of masterminding the wiretapping of more than 20,000 people. It dissipated only after the European Union mediated a deal that called for early elections and the appointment of a special prosecutor to probe the content of the wiretaps. Lazarevic, who was arrested in January 2015, described how difficult it had been to give his testimony in the presence of a former colleague, with a prosecutor in the next room. "I told the truth to two institutions, but instead of giving me the status of a whistle-blower, I was charged with espionage," he told the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), recounting the dramatic events that had upended the life of his family, and the whole country as a whole. Lazarevic and his colleagues spent 11 months in prison before the Special Prosecutor's Office dropped the charges against them. At the same time, prosecutors opened a new investigation into the former interior minister under the Zaev government, as well as the intelligence chief and his closest associates. Zaev took office in May, nearly six months after the December elections, ending a two-year political crisis over a wiretapping scandal that brought down the previous government. The delay was caused by obstacles created by President Gjorge Ivanov, who supported Gruevski even when he did not have legal means to form a government. The Macedonian columnist Sveznadar Georgievski predicts the start of a new era, and sees the outcome of the local elections as an unequivocal repudiation of the criminality and corruption that plagued former Prime Minister Gruevski's government. Now, as the initial euphoria over the unexpectedly decisive victory wanes, Zaev and his party face the difficult task of delivering on the European promise, which will require securing an independent judiciary, nurturing a free press, and perhaps the hardest of all -- negotiations with Greece over the country's disputed name. The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect those of RFE/RL Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/macedonia-social- democrats-look-deliver-european -promise/28800206.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 Doubts Growing US Will Always Defend Asian Allies By Brian Padden October 17, 2017 In South Korea and Japan there is increasing support for the deployment of nuclear weapons to defend against the growing North Korean threat, and due to public concern that the U.S. may no longer be counted on to aid allies with extended nuclear deterrence. The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency estimates North Korea may have as many as 60 nuclear weapons, and that it might have successfully miniaturized nuclear warheads to fit on its arsenal of 1,000 missiles. Assurance gap But what is changing the security calculus for both the U.S. and Asia is North Korea's rapid progress toward developing a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that could target the U.S. mainland. This development is raising concerns that Washington may not risk nuclear war with North Korea to fulfill longstanding mutual security obligations to defend its allies. "People have some doubt that Washington will really protect Seoul or Tokyo at the expense of Washington or Seattle or New York," said Park In-kook with the Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies and a former South Korean deputy foreign minister. Park moderated an expert panel on the North Korean nuclear threat at the World Knowledge Forum in Seoul on Tuesday. During the U.S. presidential campaign, then candidate Donald Trump also sowed doubts about America's commitment to allies in the region, when he said he would consider withdrawing troops from the region and allowing Asian Pacific allies to acquire their own nuclear weapons if they did not significantly increase defense payments to the United States. Since taking office, however, the Trump administration has offered multiple reassurances of the U.S. commitment to its allies. In a September public opinion survey, over 60 percent of South Koreans were in favor of their country acquiring its own nuclear deterrent, whether that be through the deployment of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons or by developing their own. In Japan, the only country to suffer a nuclear attack, only 9 percent supported acquiring nuclear weapons according to a poll in July. But North Korea's recent tests of two intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs), which flew directly over northern Japanese territory, have increased public support for conservative Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's efforts to bolster the nation's defenses. And in September, former Japanese defense minister Shigeru Ishiba publicly questioned whether the U.S. can still be trusted to protect Japan. Japan has a civilian nuclear power industry and is believed to have sufficient fissile materials and technology needed to quickly develop nuclear weapons, if the country decided to do so. Strategic objections But there are multiple arguments against the deployment of nuclear weapons by Seoul and Tokyo, as experts believe that such a move would likely legitimize North Korea's nuclear program, and greatly weaken the international community's commitment to maintain pressure on North Korea to denuclearize through economic sanctions. China would shift from cooperating to restrain North Korea to focusing on the emerging nuclear security threat, especially from Japan with its history of military aggression in Asia. "Japan in trying to take or, in other words, [exploit] some sort of a DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) factor to re-militarize, well that would scare the Chinese bad," said Shu Feng, the director of the Institute of International Studies in Nanjing University in China. Japan and South Korea would also be in violation of the Non Proliferation Treaty (NPT) they signed as non-nuclear weapons states and could be subjected to international sanctions as well. The United Nations might also impose economic and diplomatic sanctions on South Korea for developing nuclear weapons. Military advantage From a military standpoint, deploying U.S. tactical nuclear weapons in South Korea in particular does not make sense. The tactical weapons the U.S. withdrew from the Korean Peninsula in the 1990s are considered obsolete. Analysts say the U.S. now keeps its nuclear weapons in undisclosed submarines and aircraft. Deploying them in stationary locations in South Korea would lose the element of surprise and make them more vulnerable to a North Korean strike. "You have increased the likelihood that North Korea will engage in a preemptive attack on that very high value target, and in a crisis you may even feel constrained from removing the nuclear weapons from the bunker, lest it cause North Korea to think you are about to attack them," said Bruce Klingner, a former CIA analyst who is now senior research fellow at the conservative Heritage Foundation. The U.S. and its allies in Tokyo and Seoul have so far moved to counter North Korea's nuclear capabilities by building up missile defenses and conventional weapons. Japan has requested to purchase a $113 million an AIM 120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) system from the U.S. The U.S. military has also deployed the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile shield in South Korea. Youmi Kim in Seoul contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippines' Duterte Declares Marawi Freed From 'Terrorist Influence' By VOA News October 17, 2017 Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has declared the southern city of Marawi "liberated from the terrorist influence" after a five-month battle to retake the southern city from Islamic militants. Duterte's declaration in front of a group of rain-soaked troops Tuesday came a day after two key militant leaders, Isnilon Hapilon and Omarkhayam Maute, were killed during a targeted military operation. Hapilon, who swore allegiance to Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was one of the most wanted terrorists listed by the United States, which offered a $5 million reward for his arrest. Despite the president's declaration of victory, military officials said a small pocket of 20 to 30 armed militants are still holding about 20 hostages in Marawi, a city of 200,000 located on the southern island of Mindanao. More than 1,000 people have been killed since May 23, when Philippine security forces launched a mission to capture Hapilon. The raid collapsed after a wave of militants stormed the city and went on a rampage, burning houses, a university and Catholic churches and taking scores of hostages. Much of Marawi has been leveled by airstrikes aimed at bringing an end to the siege. Military officials say they are also searching for Mahmud Ahmad, a close associate of Hapilon who experts say is likely to take over for Hapilon as Islamic State's leader in the region. The southern Philippines, particularly the resource-rich but poverty-wracked Mindanao region, has long been a hotbed of activity by the Abu Sayyaf and other fundamentalist groups. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New York Bomber Faces Life in Prison By VOA News October 16, 2017 The man accused of planting two bombs in New York, leaving 30 people injured in September of last year, was found guilty of all charges Monday. Twenty-nine-year-old Ahmad Khan Rahimi of Elizabeth, New Jersey, faces a maximum sentence of life in prison for charges including counts of using a weapon of mass destruction and bombing a public place. In a Department of Justice statement, Acting Assistant Attorney Dana Boente said the verdict is an important step in holding Rahimi accountable for his crimes. Acting U.S. Attorney Joon Kim said "inspired by ISIS [Islamic State] and al-Qaida, Rahimi planted and detonated bombs on the streets of Chelsea, in the heart of Manhattan, and in New Jersey, hoping to kill and maim as many innocent people as possible. Rahimi's crimes of hate have been met with swift and resolute justice." The defense said it would appeal the verdict, which followed a two-week trial. But prosecutors noted an unusually high amount of evidence against Rahimi, including fingerprints and DNA found on the bombs, and dozens of videos tracking his movements throughout the night. New York Mayor Bill de Blasio congratulated all involved with the prosecution Monday. "The Chelsea bombing was an attempt to bring our city to its knees. Instead, our NYPD, FBI and federal prosecutors have brought Ahmad Rahimi to justice," he said in a statement. The bomb detonated in the New York neighborhood of Chelsea on the evening of September 17, 2016. Rahimi allegedly planted a second a bomb near a Marine Corps charity footrace in Seaside Park, New Jersey, also September 17. The device detonated while a bomb squad was trying to defuse it. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Formidable Shield 2017: Ship Engages BMD Target during NATO exercise, MDA and Navy conduct SM-6 test launch 17-NEWS-0010 Oct. 15, 2017 Ships from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States participated in a live-fire integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) scenario, defending against a ballistic missile target as well as three anti-ship cruise missiles Oct. 15 as part of exercise Formidable Shield 2017 (FS17). Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) is conducting Formidable Shield on behalf of the U.S. 6th Fleet. The U.S. Missile Defense Agency is also a major participant in this exercise. During the collective self-defense scenario, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) successfully detected, tracked and intercepted a medium-range ballistic missile target with a Standard Missile-3 Block IB guided missile. Simultaneously, the Spanish frigate SPS Alvaro de Bazan (F101) fired an Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) against an incoming anti-ship cruise missile while the Netherlands frigate HNLMS Tromp (F803) fired ESSMs against a pair of incoming anti-ship cruise missiles. This was the first time NATO's smart defense concept was demonstrated with ships serving as air defense units protecting naval ballistic missile defense units. Following that event, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency and U.S. Navy sailors aboard USS McFaul (DDG 74) successfully test fired a Standard Missile-6 (SM-6). That flight test, designated Standard Missile Controlled Test Vehicle (SM CTV)-03, demonstrated the successful performance of an SM-6 launched from an Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense capable DDG and was conducted as part of the system's flight certification process. The SM-6 test was not part of the Formidable Shield exercise, but was conducted in coordination with that event to leverage the available range assets. "I am extremely proud of the Task Group members and their performance during these complex, live-fire engagements," said Capt. Shanti Sethi, commander, Task Group IAMD for Formidable Shield, and Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet's Task Force 64. "The exercise scenarios are designed to test our limits and give us a unique opportunity to truly practice how we would fight together as an alliance. We are coordinating and sharing information in real time the way we would in a real IAMD operation." Formidable Shield is designed to improve allied interoperability in an IAMD environment, using NATO command-and-control reporting structures and datalink architecture. FS17 is the inaugural iteration of this exercise. "I couldn't be more proud of the government and industry team from across the NATO alliance who planned and executed these missions," said U.S. Missile Defense Agency Director Lt. Gen. Sam Greaves. "Both the joint exercise and the Navy test launch truly demonstrate the capabilities the U.S. and our allies are developing to defeat complex, cruise and ballistic missile threats." More than 14 ships, 10 aircraft, and approximately 3,300 personnel from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the U.K., and the U.S., are participating in FS17 on the U.K. Ministry of Defense's Hebrides Range located on the Western Isles of Scotland. "Formidable Shield is, as the name already implies, a formidable setup for both testing architectural constructs to TDL (tactical data link) and for the conduct of operational decision making of the complex environment of Integrated Air and Missile Defense," said Cmdr. Peter Jansberg, Danish Navy, CTG IAMD Senior Operations Officer. "As such, Formidable Shield demonstrates the necessity of constantly maintaining and sustaining a Joint Operational Air picture, so all nations have the ability to act and operate from the same hymn sheet. This making the decision line as short as possible, and the room for error minimal." U.S. ships participating in Formidable Shield include the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers Donald Cook, USS Mitscher (DDG 57), USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), and the Louis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Medger Evers (T-AKE 13). Formidable Shield 2017 began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to conclude Oct. 18, 2017. This exercise is planned to be a recurring, biennial event, and is designed to assure allies, deter adversaries, and demonstrate our commitment to collective defense of the NATO alliance. Formidable Shield and exercise Joint Warrior 17-2, a U.K.-led, multinational exercise in a maritime training environment for allies to improve interoperability and prepare forces for combined operations, are occurring concurrently. STRIKFORNATO is a rapidly deployable headquarters that provides scalable command and control across the full spectrum of the alliance's fundamental security tasks. As part of that mission, STRIKFORNATO is responsible for integrating U.S. naval and amphibious forces into NATO operations. U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa. Media Contacts: For questions regarding Formidable Shield 17, please contact C6F Public Affairs at CNE-C6FPAO@eu.navy.mil For questions regarding the SM-6 test launch, please contact Chris Johnson, 571-231-8212, christopher.johnson@mda.mil NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Party Congress Expected to Signal Next 5 Years of Maritime Policy By Ralph Jennings October 16, 2017 Chinese leaders are expected to emerge from a party congress this month with signals on whether they will take a hard or soft stance toward the widely contested South China Sea, a region of concern from Southeast Asia to Washington. China claims nearly the entire 3.5 million-square-kilometer, resource-rich sea between its south coast and the island of Borneo. Those claims overlap the maritime exclusive economic zones of four militarily weaker Southeast Asian claimants, many backed by the United States. Future South China Sea policy When China's ruling Communist Party holds its 19th National Congress this week, senior leaders have power to instruct the party on how to handle the maritime dispute over the next five years. They might agree to follow international law, for example, though without giving up sovereignty. They could also suggest a tougher approach or decide to take the current line expansion while giving aid to other claimants. "The most likely scenario is a reiteration of the established maritime South China Sea policy," said Fabrizio Bozzato, a Taiwan Strategy Research Association fellow. "There might be a change of tone in a more muscular sense. That's a possibility but not a certainty." Closed meetings The party that has single-handedly ruled China since the 1940s will meet largely behind closed doors during the Congress that opens in Beijing Oct. 18. Typically congresses touch on all major issues of concern to China and, where needed, come up with new ideas. Change may be neither "drastic" nor "significant" after the congress, Bozzato said. China would still advocate peaceful support for easing disputes, he predicted. China might use more of the language in the United Nations maritime law to explain its position, said Douglas Guilfoyle, associate international law professor at Monash University in Australia. China believes, for example, that larger islets under a country's control should confer an exclusive economic zone in the surrounding sea. Slight policy change possible "There does seem to be some very tentative signals that China might be attempting to re-frame or at least frame its position more in terms of generally accepted norms," Guilfoyle said. "At the end of the day, it's very difficult to maintain territorial or quasi-territorial claims that no one else will actively support." A world arbitration court ruled in July 2016 against Beijing's legal basis to claim much of the sea. China rejected the ruling, but since then it has tried to get along better with the rival Southeast Asian states. Those states are Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Analysts expect no change in this element of Chinese diplomacy. The other countries resent China for passing coast guard vessels through disputed waters and building artificial islands for reported military use. China uses historic records to argue its claim to the sea, which is valued for commercial shipping lanes, fisheries and undersea fossil fuel reserves. The United States periodically irritates China by sending navy vessels into the sea to show it's still open to all countries. Chinese and American media say one passed near the sea's Paracel Islands in early October. In other shows of worry about China's maritime control, India is backing Vietnam's exploration for oil and gas in contested tracts, and in June Japan passed a helicopter carrier through the sea. The Communist Party congress can also just acknowledge developments on a foreign policy issue without taking a position. At the congress in 2012, former chairman Hu Jintao's political report just noted "greater instability and turbulence in the international system" compared to five years earlier, a study by the Hoover Institution at Stanford University says. That comment referred to the 2008 financial crisis and its "global repercussions," according to the study. President Xi Jinping may become more powerful China has already moderated its stance over the past year to ease tensions, evidenced by lack of new landfill for construction of artificial islands, said Oh Ei Sun, international studies instructor at Singapore Nanyang University. China would be able to hold this position if the congress appoints President Xi Jinping to another five years as party chair, he said. The widely forecast reappointment would give Xi more authority and confidence to carry out policy, scholars believe. "I think after the 19th Party Congress, you will see this sort of stance be prolonged for quite a significant period of time, because there's no need to posture anymore," Oh said. But outcomes of the congress may embolden China to go ahead with island building or military movements, especially if the United States antagonizes it, Bozzato said. "It's logical Xi Jinping will have to show some muscles," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Tightens Control as Top Leader Consolidates Power at Party Congress By Joyce Huang, William Ide October 17, 2017 China's Communist Party is set to host a high-level meeting in Beijing that will usher in a much-anticipated reshuffle of the ruling party's top leadership. Strict security measures have been put in place, along with sweeping online censorship controls to ensure its success. Those measures include facial recognition and identification checks for passengers in and out of Beijing subway stations and on trains bound for the capital city, and the detention of a dozen of activists nationwide who had posted comments or shared information authorities deem threatening to "political stability." While China's general public may view the tightening controls as a short-term extra-vigilant approach by top leadership ahead of this week's meetings, observers warn they are not passing trends. Instead, they say they are part of a long term vision of control. Changing the weather "This is not about riding out a storm it's about changing the weather," said David Bandurski, a researcher at the University of Hong Kong's China Media Project, in a written reply to VOA. He said that, since late 2012, Chinese President Xi Jinping has managed to exercise a level of control over the media landscape that is unprecedented in the country's reform era. Xi's vision of control is evident in the recent crackdown on virtual private networks (VPNs) and the raft of new regulations accompanying China's Cyberspace Law, which Bandurski said redefines propaganda around the individual Internet user. More recently, Xi has taken even more aggressive steps, such as pushing for the government to buy shares in local tech companies, he added. New normal Unlike his predecessors, Xi understands the power of the Internet and has ensured that all regulations to control China's Internet are fully enforced, said a founder of GreatFire, an organization dedicated to fighting the so-called Great Firewall of China, who goes by the pseudonym Charlie Smith. Smith says that the Chinese government's initiatives to make it harder to evade censorship will be the "new normal" with a worrying effect. "Sadly, we are seeing that foreign companies are willing to work closely with the Chinese authorities to limit Internet freedom in China," the activist said in an email to VOA, referring to Apple's decision to remove VPN apps from its app store. The situation will quickly worsen if other companies follow suit, he warned. Political censorship He added that, in the run-up to the 19th party congress, it's not surprising for authorities to monitor sensitive keywords on Chinese social media. Even the keyword "19th Party Congress" was tightly controlled because the authorities want the good messages to get out on social media and the bad messages to be deleted, he noted. The movie Youth by Feng Xiaogang, which tells a love story during the Sino-Vietnam war in the 80s, was also said to be pulled off the National Day schedule due to its political sensitivity. According to local media reports, online discussion about the movie was also banned. Making things worse, Chinese authorities have further detained 14 activists on charges of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," ahead of the meetings, according to China Human Rights Defenders. No freedom of political expression Those include dissenters and netizens who have discussed corruption allegations made by fugitive Chinese tycoon Guo Wengui as well as a professor who had called for democratic elections at the upcoming party congress, the rights group said. "This kind of top-down directives about making sure that there's nothing that can embarrass the leader in this period, and the way this is being enacted has been fairly aggressive," said the group's researcher Frances Eve. Eve however noted it remains to be seen if any public backlash toward the government's tightening controls would emerge. "[The] slow grind of ever-increasing controls and repression makes it harder for people to sort of realize it is like kind of an analogy of a frog being boiled alive in a pot," she said. Over the past few weeks, a state media blitz has highlighted the party's achievements over the past five years, but few people that VOA spoke with were even paying attention to or had much to say about the political gathering. "We don't know much about politics. I'm not interested in those things, unless it relates to my company or work. The only thing that bothers me now is that express delivery services have been suspended. So, I have to go shopping myself," said a lady surnamed Li. "[People] care less about whether he [Xi] has consolidated his own power, but more about whether he has strived to improve people's livelihood, which is the top priority. I won't say much about him as long as China is on the right track," a party member surnamed Wu added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea will not negotiate with hostile US: Diplomat Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 06:51PM Amid growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula, North Korea has told the United Nations that it will not negotiate the dismantling of its nuclear weapons unless the US reversed its "hostile" policy. North Korean Deputy UN Ambassador Kim In-ryong told the UN General Assembly's committee on disarmament on Monday that the situation on the Korean Peninsula "has reached the touch-and-go point and a nuclear war may break out any moment." "Unless the hostile policy and the nuclear threat of the US [are] thoroughly eradicated, we will never put our nuclear weapons and ballistic rockets on the negotiation table under any circumstance," the diplomat said. Kim also stressed that his country "had passed the final gate" toward becoming a full-fledged nuclear power, with the means to deliver a nuclear strike. "The entire US mainland is within our firing range and if the US dares to invade our sacred territory, even an inch, it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe." Elsewhere in his remarks, the North Korean diplomat said that Pyongyang would not target countries that are not part of the US-led military campaign. "As long as one does not take part in the US military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country," he said. The remarks come weeks after US President Donald Trump threatened to "totally destroy" North Korea if necessary. Trump, who had formerly threatened Pyongyang with "fire and the fury like the world has never seen," renewed the threat at the UN last month, saying, "The United States has great strength and patience, but if it is forced to defend itself or its allies, we will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea." Trump also engaged in an escalating war of words with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, trading personal insults. Trump called North Korean leader a "rocket man" who is "on a suicide mission." But US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday that Trump wanted to avoid war. "He's not seeking to go to war," Tillerson told CNN, adding that efforts would "continue until the first bomb drops." Efforts by Tillerson come even though Trump said on Twitter that Tillerson was "wasting his time" with negotiations on North Korea. On Monday, South Korea and the United States kicked off week-long war games in the waters around the Korean Peninsula. Tensions on the Korean peninsula have risen sharply in recent weeks following a series of weapons tests by Pyongyang, including its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and two missiles launched over Japan. The international community has pressed Pyongyang to abandon its missiles and nuclear weapons development programs. Pyongyang, however, insists its weapons are of defensive nature, acting as a deterrent against potential foreign aggression. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, South Korea launch week-long naval drills involving 40 warships Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 05:51AM South Korea and the United States have kicked off week-long war games in the waters around the restive Korean Peninsula, in a move that could lead to a new surge in tensions with the North. About 40 navy ships from both countries, including the nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier and US submarine Michigan, started maritime exercises on the east and west coasts of the peninsula, South Korea's Defense Ministry said on Monday. The South Korean navy said the maneuvers, which will last until October 20, also involve fighter jets and helicopters. Pyongyang views such drills as a rehearsal for war against North Korea, and has repeatedly called on its neighbors, including South Korea and Japan, not to engage in joint exercises with Washington. North Korea's state-run KCNA news agency on Saturday slammed the military exercises as "a reckless act of war maniacs." Pyongyang also reacted to the deployment of the US aircraft carrier and other war assets to the peninsula, saying Washington is trying to provoke North Korea. Prior to the latest Washington-Seoul drills, South Korea media had reported that the North was preparing for another missile launch. The Donga Ilbo daily, citing a government source, said on Saturday that satellite pictures showed ballistic missiles on launchers being transported out of hangars near Pyongyang and in North Phyongan Province. Tensions on the Korean peninsula have risen sharply in recent weeks following a series of weapons tests by Pyongyang, including its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and two missile launches over Japan. The tests were conducted amid a war of words with the United States, whose new administration has threatened to "destroy" North Korea. The international community has pressed Pyongyang to abandon its missiles and nuclear weapons development programs. Pyongyang, however, insists its weapons are of defensive nature, acting as a deterrent against potential foreign aggression. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea Says US Actions 'Forced' Pyongyang to Create H-Bomb Sputnik News 16:12 16.10.2017(updated 17:07 16.10.2017) North Korea tested a hydrogen bomb in September prompting a UN resolution toughening sanctions on Pyongyang. "It was the US that forced North Korea to create a hydrogen bomb," the head of the North Korean delegation at International Parliamentary Union (IPU) summit said on October 16. According to the deputy speaker of the North Korean parliament Ahn Dong Chun, North Korean official, Pyongyang will continue to expand it nuclear arsenal as long as a "threat from the US" remains. "The DPRK will never discuss its right to nuclear weapons while the United States maintains its nuclear threat and militant policy towards North Korea." Pyongyang has conducted several attempts to launch a hydrogen bomb with many of them failing. On September 3, North Korea announced it conducted its most powerful nuclear test of an advanced hydrogen bomb for a long-range missile. The nuclear test prompted international condemnation. US President Donald Trump called Pyongyang's actions "hostile and dangerous" and reaffirmed the US readiness to protect the US and its allies by "using the full range of diplomatic, conventional and nuclear capabilities at our disposal." In response to the North Korean H-bomb test, the UN Security Council unanimously voted in favor of the US-drafted resolution further toughening sanctions against Pyongyang. The DPRK vowed retaliation for the "hostile" move and for the first time revealed a plot to stike the US territory of Guam in case of a "provocation." The US leader responded to the threat promising to unleash "fire and fury" if Pyongyang does not stop its "threats to the US." On October 13, North Korea renewed its promise to strike Guam one day after stating that it will complete its nuclear weapons program no matter how much international pressure the nation faces. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Tense US-North Korea Standoff Slowly Escalates By Brian Padden October 16, 2017 As the tense nuclear standoff between North Korea and the United States continues to escalate, the risk of military conflict grows, while hopes for a peaceful solution remain remote. On Sunday U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said diplomatic efforts to persuade the Kim Jong Un government to give up its nuclear and long range ballistic missile program will continue "until the first bomb drops." But President Donald Trump has been pessimistic on the prospect of finding any diplomatic solution. He has called Tillerson's efforts a "waste of time" and indicated that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un cannot be trusted to adhere to any diplomatic agreement as the leadership in Pyongyang has repeatedly violated past denuclearization deals. "I think I might have a somewhat different attitude, and a different way than other people. I think perhaps I feel stronger and tougher on that subject, than other people," Trump said last week. Systematic preparations The Trump administration's hardline stance demanding North Korea unilaterally stop developing a nuclear-armed intercontinental ballistic missile that could reach the U.S. mainland could be a negotiating strategy, but critics fear it could also be laying the groundwork for the eventual use of military force. "This administration not just Trump, this administration is systematically preparing for a time not that far off in the future, basically next year the way I interpreted it in context, when diplomacy has failed," said John Delury, an international relations professor at Yonsei University in Seoul. A recent poll shows increasing U.S. support among President Donald Trump's Republican supporters for a preemptive strike to take out North Korean nuclear or ballistic missile sites, although a strong majority of Americans still oppose the use of force. While launching such a strike to prevent an imminent North Korean attack on the U.S. would be a justifiable use of force, it might be difficult to prove. But any first strike military options, including possible cyberattacks to sabotage North Korean missile tests, or a decapitation strike to kill Kim Jong Un and the leadership in Pyongyang, would risk deadly retaliation against South Korea along with the 28,000 American troops stationed in the south, and could plunge the entire region into a nuclear war. "I think that would be morally, diplomatically, strategically, politically a great disaster, not only for the people of Korea and the region, but for the United States of America too," said North Korea analyst David Straub with the Sejong Institute. Military brinksmanship Yet neither side is acting to reduce tensions, as they remain locked in what seems a deadly game of brinksmanship. The United States and South Korea began week-long joint Navy drills in the waters around the Korean peninsula that involve about 40 naval ships from both countries, including the nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier and U.S. submarine Michigan. South Korean media is reporting that a U.S. Special Forces unit practicing for "decapitation" operations is taking part in the joint exercises. The U.S. has also sent a B-1B Lancer strategic bomber and F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets to participate in the Seoul air show this week. And the U.S. forces in Korea will begin non-combatant evacuation training next week for service members and their families in case of a North Korean attack or other disaster. North Korea in turn is expected to test another long-range missile soon. The North's state news agency KCNA on Friday indicated a missile test might target waters near the U.S. territory of Guam." In August, Trump said the U.S. would respond "with fire and fury" to an earlier North Korean threat to target Guam. Pyongyang says the Trump administration's hostile intent, and the increased military buildup, further justify its need for a nuclear deterrent. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, Japan agree to pile toughest diplomatic pressure on North Korea Iran Press TV Tue Oct 17, 2017 04:24PM The United States and Japan have agreed to pile the toughest possible diplomatic pressure on North Korea amid tensions about Pyongyang's intensified nuclear and weapons program. In a Tuesday meeting in Tokyo between US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan and his Japanese counterpart Shinsuke Sugiyama, the two sides, however, again warned North Korea of a potential military action in case diplomacy fails. The United States has led international efforts to impose some tough sanctions on North Korea after Pyongyang tested two intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) in July and later carried out its most powerful nuclear test. Pyongyang also sent missiles above Japan in September, prompting massive fears in the island country. However, a major obstacle to any de-escalation on the Korean Peninsula has been Washington's belligerent threats against the North such as the one from US President Donald Trump, who said after the ICBM tests that he would unleash "fire and fury" on North Korea like the world has never seen. The US has also sought to increase its sale of modern weapons to Japan while it continues to launch joint military drills with South Korea, a move which North Korea designates as a rehearsal for invasion. Sullivan, the senior diplomat visiting Japan to promote US insistence on diplomacy over North Korea, again repeated threats of war against North Korea, saying Washington and allies should be prepared for failure of diplomacy. "We must, however, with our allies in Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst should diplomacy fail," Sullivan said, adding that Washington must be prepared to defend itself and its allies. His counterpart, Sugiyama, who briefed journalists separately, said Japan was also supportive of Trump's policy of keeping all options open. He said Tokyo was in favor of more cooperation among Japan, the US, and South Korea on one side and China and Russia, two countries close to North Korea, on the other. Sugiyama and Sullivan are expected in South Korea on Wednesday for further talks on North Korea. Those talks would come as the US would hold another round of joint military drills with South Korea this week, which could further anger the North and lead to a new escalation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Joint Russia-N Korea Projects Won't Be Frozen, Yet No New Projects - Minister Sputnik News 15:03 17.10.2017(updated 15:04 17.10.2017) A senior Russian official has commented on the prospects of cooperation between Russia and North Korea after sanctions being imposed on Pyongyang by Moscow. SOCHI (Sputnik) Russia's and North Korea's existing projects in trade and economics will not be frozen but new projects will not be implemented, Russian Far East Development Minister Alexander Galushka said Tuesday. "Most likely no projects will be frozen. They were already frozen earlier. New projects which could have been implemented will not be implemented in these conditions. The projects and directions of cooperation where cooperation was developing earlier, will continue to develop," Galushka, who chairs the Russia-North Korea intergovernmental commission, told reporters. The statement comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on measures needed to implement UN Security Council sanctions on North Korea on October 16. According to the document, Russia will cease cooperation with Pyongyang on science and technology and close bank offices in North Korea. North Korea should also cease using any property in Russia for anything other than diplomatic or consular activities. The European Union on the same day adopted a new package of its own sanctions against North Korea, including a total ban on EU investment in the country, the sale of refined petroleum products and crude oil to North Korea, as well as a cap on personal remittances transferred to North Korea from 15,000 euros ($17,700) to 5,000 euros. The UN Security Council adopted new, toughest yet, sanctions on North Korea on September 11, capping crude oil import and banning textile exports from North Korea. The move followed Pyongyang's sixth nuclear test carried out on September 3, with North Korea claiming to have successfully tested a hydrogen bomb. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran to rethink if not benefit from JCPOA ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Mon / 16 October 2017 / 15:35 Tehran (ISNA) Iran's Parliament Speaker stressed that if the US President's inappropriate attitude stopped Iran benefiting from the nuclear agreement, the country would definitely reconsider its stance on the deal. Iran's Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani made the remarks in a meeting with Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) Lassina Zerbo in Saint Petersburg which hosted the 137th assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). "On the subject of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), we have sustained high costs. If we are not to benefit from the JCPOA through the inappropriate behavior of Trump, and merely pay the costs, we will certainly rethink this issue" Larijani said. Larijani touched on Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei's fatwa against the acquisition, development and use of nuclear weapons, saying it also includes other weapons of mass destruction. "The fatwa of our Eminent Leader is not merely prohibiting nuclear weapons, but it also forbids the use of all weapons of mass destruction, including biological and chemical weapons." "We are a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which has so far confirmed our adherence eight times, but Tramp claims that Iran is not in compliance, and that Congress must decide about it," he added. "If Trump is to make a judgment on this, then what is the responsibility of the International Atomic Energy Organization?" the speaker asked. Lassina Zerbo, for his part, hailed Iran's positive and constructive position on commitment to the nuclear deal, adding "the JCPOA is the most significant agreement that has been achieved in the last ten years, and all sides to the deal must make efforts to preserve it." "Ayatollah Khamenei's fatwa on the prohibition of atomic weapons is very important," he said, adding no country should try to scuttle the JCPOA. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU foreign ministers back Iran nuclear deal ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Mon / 16 October 2017 / 16:25 Tehran (ISNA) European Union foreign ministers expressed their support for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), calling it a very important deal. European Union foreign ministers held a meeting in Luxembourg on Monday, expressing their support for the JCPOA, Reuters reported. UK foreign secretary Boris Johnson said, "We are working as Europeans to keep the Iran nuclear deal going. The UK has long thought that it was very important for our collective security. It's good for the world. It is good for Iran." Dutch foreign minister Bert Koenders said, "I think the agreement we have with Iran is a very important one, a very constructive one. It's verified by the IAEA. So I think it will be a great mistake if one of the partners will go in another direction". "The consequences will not be only for the US but also for Europe and the international community. I hope the US Congress will realize this and take the right decision," he added. Jean Asselborn, minister for foreign affairs of Luxembourg said, "We are geographically close to Iran and we need this deal for our security and we will stand by it". "I think that Trump's policy is isolating his country, multilateralism is being destroyed. This is bad, it's a complete change in the world order since WW2," he added. French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in Luxembourg on Monday that "we hope US Congress will not call this agreement into question". Dutch counterpart Bert Koenders said, "The agreement concerns the safety of the world. I hope also that the U.S. Congress will realize this and take the right decisions". Belgium's foreign minister, Didier Reynders, said that walking away would compromise trust in any future negotiations on North Korea's nuclear ambitions. He said, "We must be able to demonstrate that when a nuclear agreement has been concluded that we respect it". Meanwhile, EU High Representative Federica Mogherini told reporters ahead of the meeting, " I expect from the ministers a strong united support for the EU position for a continued implementation by all sides of this agreement. We do not expect the deal to be finished. So I am not considering alternatives". End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Missile production will not stop under any conditions: IRGC commander Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 06:21PM The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Division says Tehran will not stop boosting its missile capabilities under any circumstances, shrugging off US President Donald Trump's call for constraints on Iran's ballistic missile program. "[Even] if a wall is constructed all around the country, the production of missiles will not be halted, because this is a completely indigenous and domestic industry," Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh said on Monday. He added that the IRGC was defending the Iranian nation's interests and would not be deceived by enemies, emphasizing that the IRGC would continue to boost its capabilities on a daily basis, because security is paramount in all conditions. The IRGC commander played down concerns about a possible war against Iran, saying, "This is the enemy's psychological warfare and our country is so strong that no one will dare attack or confront the Islamic Republic." Hajizadeh also pointed to Washington's hostile approaches to Tehran and added, "The US enmity is an unchangeable issue and strategy. [Therefore,] its tactics may change but the strategy itself never changes." He emphasized that US statesmen were under the influence of Zionists, saying, "Their core policies are dictated by the Zionists." The US president on October 13 refused to formally certify that Iran was complying with the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and warned that he might ultimately terminate the agreement. While Trump did not pull Washington out of the nuclear deal, he gave the US Congress 60 days to decide whether to reimpose economic sanctions against Tehran that were lifted under the pact. Reimposing sanctions would put the US at odds with other signatories to the accord and the European Union. Trump also said his goal was to ensure Iran would never obtain a nuclear weapon, adding, "We will not continue down a path whose predictable conclusion is more violence, more terror and the very real threat of Iran's nuclear breakout." Shortly after Trump's anti-Iran speech, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani questioned the US motives in expressing concern over Iran's missile program, saying Washington was providing arms to "aggressive countries" to target innocent people in the region, including in Yemen. He said, "Our missiles are for our defense and we have always endeavored for the production of our weapons and we will redouble our efforts from now on and will continue enhancing our defensive [prowess]." Back in July, Hajizadeh said Iran was self-sufficient in producing various types of surface-to-surface missiles, drones and smart bombs. "[Iran's] self-sufficiency in manufacturing advanced surface-to-surface missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, smart bombs, radar and air defense systems, electronic warfare [devices] and other issues correctly proves that we can overcome all problems by relying on domestic capabilities," he said. Iran has recently made major breakthroughs in its defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in producing important military equipment and hardware. The Islamic Republic says its military power poses no threat to other countries and is merely based on the doctrine of deterrence. Iran on September 22 unveiled a new ballistic missile, named Khorramshahr, which has a range of 2,000 kilometers and is capable of carrying multiple warheads. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU supports Iran nuclear deal, vows full commitment Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 02:20PM European Union foreign ministers have reaffirmed their support for the historic nuclear agreement between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries, saying the accord is working and is a key part of non-proliferation efforts. The union's foreign ministers held a closed-door meeting, chaired by EU foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, on the best way to proceed on the Iran issue in Luxembourg on Monday. The meeting came three days after US President Donald Trump refused to formally certify that Iran was complying with the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and warned that he might ultimately terminate the agreement. While Trump did not pull Washington out of the nuclear deal, he gave the US Congress 60 days to decide whether to reimpose economic sanctions against Tehran that were lifted under the pact. Reimposing sanctions would put the US at odds with other signatories to the accord and the European Union. The top EU diplomats urged US lawmakers not to reimpose sanctions on Tehran and warned against the serious consequences for regional peace of a failure to maintain the international agreement backed by the UN Security Council. "As Europeans together, we are very worried that the decision of the US president could lead us back into military confrontation with Iran," German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel told reporters. After the meeting, the foreign ministers issued a statement, expressing their determination to fully implement the international nuclear agreement. "The EU is committed to the continued full and effective implementation of all parts of the JCPOA," the statement said. It added that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) had certified eight times that Iran was living up to its commitments under the JCPOA. The deal has also been certified twice in the United States since Trump took office. "At a time of acute nuclear threat, the EU is determined to preserve the [agreement] as a key pillar of the international non-proliferation architecture," the EU foreign ministers noted. They added that they saw Trump's refusal to certify the JCPOA "as being in the context of an internal US process." Mogherini said the ministers "understand the politics around it," but she noted that "what is of crucial importance for us is that our European security interests are taken into consideration." "Non-proliferation is a major element of world security and rupturing that would be extremely damaging. We hope that Congress does not put this accord in jeopardy," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters. Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders also said the agreement was about "the safety of the world," adding, "I hope also that the US Congress will realize this and take the right decisions." During their Monday meeting, the EU ministers also discussed Iran's ballistic missile program but emphasized that the immediate focus had to be saving the landmark deal. The EU foreign policy chief said the ministers held no talks about new sanctions on Tehran over its ballistic missile program. 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 JCPOA is regarded as the most significant diplomatic success for the 28-nation bloc in several decades. In a telephone conversation on Sunday, British Prime Minister Theresa May and German Chancellor Angela Merkel agreed that the two countries remained firmly committed to the deal. In a related development on Sunday, British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson threw his country's weight behind the nuclear deal with Iran. Johnson, who was speaking during a telephone conversation with Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, reiterated his country's full support for the JCPOA. Mogherini also stated that she was planning to travel to Washington early next month to try to muster support for the nuclear deal with Iran. She said she would "be in Washington in early November" to urge US lawmakers not to walk away from the 2015 deal. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran expects JCPOA dividends for high costs incurred: Larijani Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 10:34AM Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani says Iran expects to benefit from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) for which it has paid high costs or it would rethink dealing with the 2015 nuclear accord. Iran is on the lookout for the ramifications of US President Donald Trump's bellicose speech on Friday, in which he refused to certify the accord and left the door open for new coercive measures against the Islamic Republic. "On the subject of the JCPOA, we have sustained high costs. If we are not to benefit from the JCPOA through the inappropriate behavior of Trump, and merely pay the costs, we will certainly rethink this issue," Larijani said. He made the remarks in a meeting with Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) Lassina Zerbo in Saint Petersburg which hosted the 137th assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). Larijani touched on Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei's fatwa against the acquisition, development and use of nuclear weapons, saying it also includes other weapons of mass destruction. "The fatwa of our Eminent Leader is not merely prohibiting nuclear weapons, but it also forbids the use of all weapons of mass destruction, including biological and chemical weapons." The JCPOA is a testimony to Iran's peaceful nuclear activities and was reached after repeated inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) did not find any non-civilian intentions in the program. Larijani said, "We are a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which has so far confirmed our adherence eight times, but Tramp claims that Iran is not in compliance, and that Congress must decide about it. "If Trump is to make a judgement on this, then what is the responsibility of the International Atomic Energy Organization?" the speaker asked. Zerbo said Ayatollah Khamenei's fatwa on the prohibition of atomic weapons is "very important," adding no country should try to scuttle the JCPOA. Trump has threatened in the past to "tear up" the deal, and called it an "embarrassment" to the US. In an insulting speech on Friday, he said his administration "cannot and will not" certify the agreement even as the United Nations and other world countries support it. Trump had already endorsed the agreement twice but on Friday he handed its fate to the US Congress, entrusting the landmark deal's future to some of its staunchest critics. After Trump's speech, the UK, France, Russia, China, and Germany, which are the other parties to the accord, reiterated their continued commitment to it. Zerbo said he has always appreciated Iran's "positive and constructive position" regarding the JCPOA, the Islamic Consultative Assembly News Agency (ICANA) reported. "The JCPOA is the most important agreement, which has been reached in this area over the past 10 years. All the parties should strive to preserve it," it quoted Zerbo as saying. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU 'Determined To Preserve' Iran Nuclear Deal, Urges U.S. Congress To Protect It RFE/RL October 16, 2017 European Union foreign ministers have closed ranks in support of the Iran nuclear agreement, warning that U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to abandon the multinational accord jeopardize efforts to find a peaceful solution to the nuclear standoff with North Korea. "At a time of acute nuclear threat the EU is determined to preserve the JCPOA as a key pillar of the international nonproliferation architecture," the ministers said in a joint statement issued during a meeting in Luxembourg, referring to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Tehran and six world powers. Under the deal, Tehran agreed to curtail its nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions. Other signatories to the accord are Russia, China, Britain, France, and Germany. But in an October 13 speech, Trump said he would not certify that Iran was complying with the nuclear agreement, and warned he might ultimately terminate it. He accused Tehran of violating the "spirit" of the agreement, in part for its continued testing of ballistic missiles and its support for extremists in the Middle East, and said he would ask Congress to strengthen a U.S. law to put additional pressure on Iran. Trump on October 16 raised the possibility he might try to end the deal completely. "It might be total termination, that's a real possibility, some would say that's a greater possibility," Trump told reporters ahead of a cabinet meeting. The EU foreign ministers said that they consider Trump's decision "as being in the context of an internal U.S. process." They underlined that the International Atomic Energy Agency had verified eight times that Iran "is implementing all its nuclear related commitments following a comprehensive and strict monitoring system." They called on the United States to maintain its commitment to the JCPOA and to "consider the implications for the security of the [United States], its partners, and the region before taking further steps." They insisted that the lifting of nuclear-related sanctions "strengthens cooperation and allows for continuous dialogue with Iran." The Luxembourg meeting is expected to sign off on a new package of EU sanctions aimed at punishing North Korea for its recent nuclear and ballistic-missile tests. The EU hopes economic pressure will help bring Pyongyang to the bargaining table, but the bloc's foreign-policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said that weakening the Iran deal "might affect negatively the possibility of opening negotiations or opening even the space for negotiations" with the North Korean leadership. Mogherini said she would visit Washington early next month to urge U.S. lawmakers not to pull out of the Iran deal, which was aimed to slow Iran's potential path toward creating a nuclear weapon. Tehran says its nuclear program has purely peaceful aims. "We must be able to demonstrate that when a nuclear agreement has been concluded that we respect it," Belgian Foreign Minister Didier Reynders said on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council. His Dutch counterpart, Bert Koenders, said that the agreement concerned "the safety of the world. I hope also that the U.S. Congress will realize this and take the right decisions." German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said the threatened termination of the deal "undermines the credibility of such international treaties," adding that Trump's hard-line stance risked dragging the world back to a "military confrontation" with Iran. "Nonproliferation is a major element of world security and rupturing that would be extremely damaging," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters. "We hope that Congress does not put this accord in jeopardy." In a joint statement on October 13, the leaders of France, Britain, and Germany said the deal remained "in our shared national security interest." Russia and China also voiced their support for the agreement. Tehran said it will remain committed to the deal as long as it serves the country's national interests. With reporting by AFP, AP, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/eu-ministers -urge-us-congress-protect-iran- nuclear-deal/28797875.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 Mogherini Voices EU Commitment to Iran Nuclear Deal Despite US Move Sputnik News 16:09 16.10.2017(updated 16:15 16.10.2017) EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini commented on Donald Trump's recent decision not to certify Iran's compliance with the Joint Comprehensive plan of action (JCPOA). MOSCOW (Sputnik) The European Union remains committed to the implementation of the agreement on the Iranian nuclear program, EU foreign ministers said Monday. "The EU is committed to the continued full and effective implementation of all parts of the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action]. The EU underlines that the lifting of nuclear-related sanctions has a positive impact on trade and economic relations with Iran including benefits for the Iranian people. It strengthens cooperation and allows for continuous dialogue with Iran," the statement, read out by EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, reads. According to the official, the European Union considered President Trump's recent decision as an internal US process, adding that the EU would encourage the US to maintain its commitment to the deal and consider its implications for the security of the US, its partners and the region before taking further steps. In its turn, the European Union is not discussing additional sanctions against Iran after Washington's move, according to the official. However, Mogherini reiterated the necessity to address increasing tensions in the Middle East and Iranian ballistic missiles outside of the agreement on Iran's nuclear program. "While the EU expresses its concerns related to ballistic missiles and increasing tensions in the region, it reiterates the need to address them outside the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action], in the relevant formats and fora. The EU stands ready to actively promote and support initiatives to ensure a more stable, peaceful and secure regional environment," their statement reads. Mogherini added that she would be visiting Washington in early November to discuss the recent developments regarding the deal. On Friday, US President Donald Trump said his administration had decided not to certify Iran's compliance with the deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), but had not challenged Iran's compliance with the deal at the international level. After Trump's announcement, many members of the P5+1 group that brokered the historic deal in 2015 yet again stated that they believe Iran is in compliance with the nuclear deal. Thus, German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said on October 13 that Berlin would try to persuade the US Congress to keep the deal. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump: 'Total Termination' of Iran Nuclear Deal Possible By Peter Heinlein October 16, 2017 President Donald Trump says his decision not to recertify Iran's compliance with the Iran nuclear deal could lead to its "total termination." "That's a very real possibility," Trump said Monday as he began a meeting with his Cabinet at the White House. "Some people say that's a greater possibility." In remarks that were at times prepared and other times off the cuff, the president said a lot of people agreed with what he did in pulling away from the 2015 accord, which Iran reached with the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and the European Union. None of the other parties to the agreement have endorsed Trump's move, however, and EU foreign ministers, meeting Monday in Luxembourg, dispatched top diplomat Federica Mogherini to Washington to fight for the deal. "Clearly, the ministers are concerned about the fact that messages on the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action] might affect negatively the possibility of opening negotiations or opening even the space for negotiations with the DPRK [North Korea]," Mogherini told reporters after the bloc's 28 foreign ministers held talks. Trump defended the decision Monday, saying he felt strongly that something had to be done about a deal he has railed against, both as a candidate and as president, even though he twice recertified the agreement in the first months of his presidency. "I'm tired of being taken advantage of as a nation," he said at the cabinet meeting, flanked by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis. "This nation has been taken advantage of for many, many years. For decades frankly, and I'm tired of watching it." The president did, however, hold out hope that the deal might be improved to his satisfaction when it goes back to Congress for further consideration. "We'll see what phase two is. Phase two might be positive and it might be very negative," he said. 'More complete strategy' Tillerson said Sunday that Iran is in "technical compliance" with the international agreement to curb its nuclear weapons development, but said Trump wants Congress to adopt "a more complete strategy" to fix what the U.S. leader sees as flaws in the pact. Speaking to CNN, Tillerson said Tehran has a "demonstrated practice of walking right up to the limits" of the 2015 deal, prompting Trump's decision not to certify compliance. Tillerson, apparently explaining what "phase two" may entail, said Trump wants Congress perhaps in a separate deal to fix "a number of weaknesses" in the nuclear agreement, and address "a much broader list of threats" Iran poses with its military aggression and "destabilizing activities" in the Middle East. Tillerson said Iran's ballistic missile tests, which are not banned by the nuclear pact, must be curbed and a more definitive ban imposed on its nuclear program. He said the current pact "simply postpones the reckoning" over Iran's nuclear ambitions. In the meantime, while Congress considers whether to adopt new sanctions, Tillerson said the U.S. and the other international signatories need to "fully enforce the agreement." Trust factor Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, who negotiated the pact for Tehran, told CBS' Face the Nation show that with Trump's opposition to the deal, "Nobody else will trust any U.S. administration to engage in any long-term negotiation because the length of any commitment, the duration of any commitment, from now on with any U.S. administration would be the remainder of the term of that president." Nikki Haley, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, told NBC, "I think right now you are going to see us stay in the deal, because what we hope is that we can improve the situation, and that's the goal. So, I think right now, we're in the deal to see how we can make it better, and that's the goal. It's not that we're getting out of the deal. We're just trying to make the situation better so that the American people feel safer." Tillerson rejected the contention that Trump's decertification of the Iran deal weakens the U.S. position in dealing with the North Korean nuclear threat. He said the U.S. stance on Iran means that it "will expect a very demanding agreement" with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to end his nuclear weapons development. Trump has told Tillerson that it is a waste of time to try to negotiate with North Korea, but Tillerson said the U.S. leader actually supports talks with Pyongyang. "These diplomatic efforts will go on to the time the first bomb drops," Tillerson said in the CNN interview broadcast Sunday. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Netanyahu at Talks With Shoigu: Israel Will Never Allow Iran's Bases in Syria Sputnik News 16:37 17.10.2017(updated 17:43 17.10.2017) The Israeli Prime minister met with the Russian defense minister to discuss the situation in Syria, as well as the Iran nuclear deal in light of the US decision not to certify the agreement. TEL AVIV (Sputnik) Israel would not allow Iran's permanent military presence in Syria, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said during talks with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, adding that Tehran "must understand this." Commenting on the agenda of his meeting with Shoigu, the Israeli prime minister said that the talks were dedicated to "above all, Iran's attempts to establish military bases in Syria." Netanyahu earlier stated Israel "will act to prevent Iran from establishing permanent military bases in Syria for its air, sea and ground forces." The Russian Defense Ministry is yet to comment on Israel's concerns over Iran's actions in Syria. Commeting on the negotiations, the Russian deputy defense minister has said that Shoigu and Netanyahu had "expressed confidence that the meetings held on the Israeli soil will give an additional impetus to the development of Russian-Israeli cooperation." Israel has been long opposing Iran's and Lebanon-based Hezbollah's presence in Syria. Iran has been providing support to the Syrian government in its fight against various terrorist groups, including Daesh, and acts alongside Russia and Turkey as one of the guarantor states of the ceasefire in Syria. Tehran has repeatedly refuted media reports claiming that its military had conducted independent operations in Syria. During his September meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Iran of building sites in Syria and Lebanon to produce missiles allegedly aiming to eradicate Israel. When asked to comment on the statement, the Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow has "no information that someone is preparing an attack on Israel." Iran Nuclear Deal The Israeli prime minister and the Russian defense minister have also discussed the US president's decision not to certify the Iran nuclear deal. Netanyahu has reiterated Tel Aviv's stance, warning of Iran potentially acquiring nuclear weapons if the deal isn't changed. During his UNGA speech in September, Netanyahu has again addressed the threat Israel believes Iran poses to its security. According to him, the nuclear deal with Iran must be changed or canceled entirely. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced support for Israel's stance on the nuclear agreement, calling it a "bad deal for Israel." On October 16, Trump suggested that Washington might unilaterally exit the agreement despite Rex Tillerson's earlier comments, saying that the United States will try to negotiate the agreement, which is, according to him, in the best interests of his country. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi forces take control of 'vast' regions in disputed Kirkuk Iran Press TV Sun Oct 15, 2017 09:56PM Iraqi forces say they have taken control of "vast areas" of Kirkuk following clashes with Kurdish Peshmerga forces who had occupied the oil-rich region. The move was announced via Iraqi state TV early on Monday, shortly after reports of government forces advancing towards strategic locations such as airfields and airbases located to the west of the city. According to Kurdish and Iraqi officials, artillery fire is being exchanged with government forces to the south of the city. A Kurdish security official has denied that Iraqi forces were able to get closer to the city or take territory from the Kurdish Peshmerga fighters. The televised report noted that the orders for the military "to impose security in Kirkuk in cooperation with the population and the Peshmerga" had been given by Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi. The developments occurred several hours after Iraq's central government accused Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) authorities of bringing militants from Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to the Kirkuk, saying it considered the move as a "declaration of war." The Iraqi government has announced that it will impose its authority over Kirkuk and other disputed areas. The statement came just hours before the expiry of a deadline for Kurdish Peshmerga fighters to withdraw from strategic areas in Kirkuk. US calls for de-escalation of situation Meanwhile, the Pentagon has called on Iraqi and Kurdish forces to "avoid escalatory actions" and revert to negotiations to defuse tensions and solve their problems. "We oppose violence from any party, and urge against destabilizing actions that distract from the fight against Daesh and further undermine Iraq's stability," said Pentagon spokeswoman Laura Seal. "We continue to support a unified IraqDespite the Kurdistan Regional Government's unfortunate decision to pursue a unilateral referendum, dialogue remains the best option to defuse ongoing tensions and longstanding issues, in accordance with the Iraqi constitution," she added. The latest incidents come amid simmering tensions between the central government in Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) over a recent controversial referendum on the secession of the semi-autonomous Iraqi Kurdish region. The plebiscite took place on September 25, sparking strong objection from Baghdad. Iraq's neighbors and the international community also voiced concerns about the repercussions of the vote, which was only supported by Israel. Kirkuk, with some 10 percent of Iraq's oil reserves, has long been contested by Baghdad and Erbil. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Coalition Monitors Military Movements Near Kirkuk, Pentagon Spokesman Says By Terri Moon Cronk DoD News, Defense Media Activity WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2017 Coalition military officials are monitoring military movements near Kirkuk, Iraq, following reports of an incident, Pentagon Director of Press Operations Army Col. Rob Manning told reporters today. "The coalition is monitoring movements of military vehicles and personnel in the vicinity of Kirkuk, he said. "These movements of military vehicles so far have been coordinated movements, not attacks." Coalition forces and advisers are not supporting the activities of Iraqi government or Kurdistan Regional Government forces near Kirkuk, Manning said. "We are aware of reports of a limited exchange of fire during the predawn hours [today], and we believe this to have been an isolated incident," he said of media reports of fighting between Iraqi and Kurdish fighters. "We have not seen levels of violence suggested in some media reports," he said, adding that the coalition strongly urges all sides to avoid additional escalatory actions, opposes violence from any party, and urges against destabilizing actions that distract from the fight against ISIS and undermine Iraq's stability. Support for Unified Iraq The United States continues to support a unified Iraq, Manning said. "Despite the Kurdistan Regional Government's unfortunate decision to pursue a unilateral referendum, dialogue remains the best option to diffuse ongoing tensions and long-standing issues," he noted. The Defense Department remains focused on the fight against ISIS, a terrorist organization that threatens the states in the region and the international community, Manning said. "We call on all actions in the region to focus on this common threat, and avoid stoking tensions among the Iraqi people. We remain focused on destroying ISIS," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey ready to cooperate with Iraq to eradicate PKK from Kirkuk Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 04:20PM The Turkish government says it is ready to cooperate with the central Iraqi government against militants from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in the country's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk, amid reports that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is allowing PKK terrorists to penetrate the city. "We once again emphasize the importance we attach to the protection of Iraq's political unity and territorial integrity. We also underline our readiness for any kind of cooperation with the Iraqi government on the termination of the PKK presence in Iraqi territories," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Monday. The statement also warned KRG not to add another calamitous mistake to the ones they have already made by allowing the PKK presence in the region, vowing that Kurdish authorities "will be held responsible if it lets the PKK find shelter." "We welcome the Iraqi government's statement that no tolerance will be shown to PKK members in Kirkuk and that the mobilization of these groups will be considered an act of war," it added. The Turkish Foreign Ministry further underlined that it is closely monitoring the Iraqi government's moves for the "establishment of constitutional order in Kirkuk." "Turkey will stand with the Iraqi government in its steps that aim to establish lasting peace and stability in the country," it pointed out. Turkish cabinet agrees to close air space to Kurdistan Meanwhile, Turkey's cabinet has agreed to close its air space to Iraqi's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, and said work had started to hand over the main land border crossing into the Kurdish territory to Baghdad government. On Monday afternoon, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi ordered the hoisting of the Iraqi national flag in the country's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk as well as other areas under the control of KRG. The development came shortly after a convoy of Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) forces took control of the governorate building in the central part of Kirkuk, located 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of Baghdad, facing no resistance from Kurdish Peshmerga forces in the city. Additionally, a Kurdish official said at least 10 Kurdish fighters were killed and 27 wounded during fighting overnight with pro-government fighters from Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) better known by their Arabic name as Hashd al-Sha'abi in Kirkuk province. Sherzad Hassan, deputy director of health in the Chamchamal region, said the toll covered only those shifted to hospitals. Kurdish officials, requesting anonymity, said dozens more Peshmerga fighters are missing after Iraqi military forces launched operations against the Kurdish forces. The referendum on secession of the Iraqi Kurdistan region was held on September 25 despite strong opposition from the central government in Baghdad, the international community, and Iraq's neighboring countries, especially Turkey and Iran. Following the vote, Baghdad imposed a ban on direct international flights to the Kurdish region and called for a halt to its independent crude oil sales. On October 12, an Iraqi government spokesman said Baghdad had set a series of conditions that the KRG needed to meet before any talks on the resolution of the referendum crisis could start. "The KRG must first commit to Iraq's unity. The local authorities in the [Kurdistan] region must accept the sovereign authority of the federal government on oil exports, [as well as] security and border protection, including land and air entry points," the unnamed Iraqi official added. The remarks came in response to an offer for dialogue made earlier by Kurdish authorities. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has already demanded the annulment of the referendum results. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Baghdad warns Kurds not to cut oil flow after KRG halts crude production Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 02:45PM The Iraqi government has warned the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) not to take any measure that would cause a crude oil flow disruption from Kirkuk oil fields as Kurdish authorities reportedly shut down some 350,000 barrels per day (bpd) of production from two major fields in northern Iraq. Earlier on Monday, reports said that the KRG had halted oil production from major fields, Bai Hassan and Avana, due to security concerns after a rise in tensions with the central government, prompting Baghdad to issue a stern warning to the Kurdish leaders to stop disrupting the oil flow from the oil fields. Shortly after Baghdad's warning, Ashti Hawrami, the KRG's minister of natural resources, ordered oil production to be resumed at the pair of oil fields following the brief interruption. Meanwhile, a spokesman for Iraq's North Oil Company said, "We received signals from them (Kurdish officials) that they will shut down production operations in Kirkuk oil fields for security reasons, but we understand that this is only a pretext to put pressure on Baghdad." The developments came as the Iraqi forces took control of the oil-rich city of Kirkuk on Monday, removed Kurdish flags from top of the government buildings and replaced them with the Iraqi flag. A senior Baghdad oil official said, "We've got confirmation from military commanders that it's a matter of a very short time. Our brave forces will regain control of all Kirkuk oil fields and then we will restart production immediately." Meanwhile, Iraq's Joint Operations Command said that Iraqi forces had managed to seize the Baba Gargar oil field, one of six major oil fields in the disputed Kirkuk region, from the Kurdish fighters. Kurdish leaders have coveted Kirkuk with some 10 percent of Iraq's oil reserves for long and described it as part of their territory even as roughly two-thirds of the city's population is non-Kurd. Kirkuk is not one of the three provinces that have made up the semi-autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan Region since 2003. However, Kurdish militants used a vacuum created when government troops were fighting against Daesh terrorists to overtake city of Kirkuk. Tensions flared up between Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdish region and the central government in Baghdad after the KRG held a highly controversial plebiscite on independence. The referendum was held on September 25 despite strong opposition from the central government in Baghdad, the international community, and Iraq's neighboring countries, especially Turkey and Iran. Following the vote, Baghdad imposed a ban on direct international flights to the Kurdish region and called for a halt to its independent crude oil sales. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi premier orders hoisting of national flag in Kirkuk, other Kurdish regions Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 02:11PM Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered the hoisting of Iraqi national flag in the country's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk as well as other areas under the control of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The development came shortly after a convoy of Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) forces took control of the governorate building in the central part of Kirkuk, located 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of capital Baghdad, facing no resistance from Kurdish Peshmerga forces in the city. According to the city's residents, before hoisting the national flag, Iraqi forces removed the Kurdish flag from the governorate building. Security sources and residents, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the government forces arrived at the site, and took position in the vicinity alongside the local city police. They added that CTS members drove to downtown Kirkuk after they had captured the airport earlier in the day from Kurdish forces. Kurdish Peshmerga forces threaten Baghdad after Kirkuk operation Meanwhile, Kurdish Peshmerga forces said Baghdad would pay a "heavy price" for launching a major offensive over several fronts aimed at retaking the Kurdish-held city of Kirkuk amid spiraling tensions between the central government and the KRG authorities in the wake of last month's Kurdish independence referendum. The Kurdish Peshmerga, in a statement released on Monday, also accused some officials within the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) of "treason" for assisting Baghdad with the advance and handing over sensitive sites to Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) better known by their Arabic name as Hashd al-Sha'abi. The statement further noted that the morale of Peshmerga forces would not decline in the face of "bad intentions of some officials and the Iraqi government's plans." It added that Baghdad shouldered the "responsibility for the war against the people of Kurdistan," asserting that Abadi's government must pay the price. The referendum on secession of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region was held on September 25 despite strong opposition from the central government in Baghdad, the international community, and Iraq's neighboring countries, especially Turkey and Iran. Following the vote, Baghdad imposed a ban on direct international flights to the Kurdish region and called for a halt to its independent crude oil sales. On October 12, an Iraqi government spokesman said Baghdad had set a series of conditions that the KRG needed to meet before any talks on the resolution of the referendum crisis could start. '10 Kurdish fighters killed in clashes with govt. forces' Additionally, a Kurdish official said at least 10 Kurdish fighters were killed and 27 wounded during fighting overnight with Hashd al-Sha'abi forces in Kirkuk province. Sherzad Hassan, deputy director of health in the Chamchamal region, said the toll covered only those shifted to hospitals. Kurdish officials, requesting anonymity, said dozens more Peshmerga fighters were missing after Iraqi military forces launched operations against the Kurdish forces. 'Iraqi-Kurdish clash in Kirkuk due to misunderstanding' Separately, the US-led coalition purportedly fighting Daesh Takfiri terrorist group has described the recent exchange of gunfire between Iraqi forces and Peshmerga fighters in Kirkuk as a result of a "misunderstanding," urging both sides to avoid escalation. "Coalition forces and advisors are not supporting government of Iraq or Kurdistan Regional Government activities near Kirkuk; but are aware of reports of a limited exchange of fire during predawn hours of darkness," it said in a statement on its website. "We believe the engagement this morning was a misunderstanding and not deliberate as two elements attempted to link up under limited visibility conditions," it added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi forces retake military base, strategic sites in Kirkuk Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 11:42AM Iraqi forces have gained control of the main military base in Kirkuk as well as other strategic locations in the oil-rich province from Kurdish fighters. The operation is carried out to take key areas in the disputed region following last month's referendum held for possible secession of the Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraq's Joint Operations Command (JOC) said on Monday that "anti-terrorist units" had captured the K1 military base northwest of Kirkuk city following the withdrawal of Kurdish Peshmerga fighters. The militants moved into Kirkuk in 2014, capitalizing on a quick withdrawal of Iraqi troops from the city amid Daesh assaults. The JOC, which groups all pro-government forces, also said that it was making progress in its operation to "restore security" to Kirkuk. After the capture of the military base, the Iraqi forces managed to take control of the headquarters for Iraqi state-owned North Oil Company and a nearby refinery from Kurdish forces without fighting. The central government troops also took the nearby Baba Gurgur field from the Kurds. Despite the ongoing operation, oil and natural gas production from the region is proceeding normally, an official within the Iraqi Oil Ministry said. ''Kurdish leaders, we consider as our brothers, have agreed to hand over control of North Oil and North Gas company facilities who belong to the state,'' a military commander involved in the operation said. "We have an agreement with some Kurdish leaders that the oil and gas facilities should stay out of the conflict," the ministry official said. The JOC further noted that the central government forces had gained control of two bridges, two roads and an industrial zone to the southwest of Kirkuk. The Iraqi troops also took control of a power station, a police station and three areas in the province. The advances came hours after artillery fire was exchanged between Iraqi and Kurdish forces early Monday south of the city. Tensions are high between the central government in Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) over the controversial referendum. The plebiscite took place on September 25, sparking strong objection from Baghdad. Iraq's neighbors and the international community also voiced concerns about the repercussions of the vote, which was only supported by Israel. Kurdish leaders have coveted Kirkuk, with some 10 percent of Iraq's oil reserves, for long and described it as part of their proper even as, roughly two-thirds of the city's population are non-Kurd. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Forces Enter Kirkuk As Thousands Flee RFE/RL October 16, 2017 Iraqi forces have entered the disputed city of Kirkuk and taken control of the provincial-council headquarters and key installations outside the disputed city, reports say. Kirkuk residents told Reuters that Iraqi forces removed the Kurdish flag that was hoisted on the governorate building in April next to an Iraqi flag. They said that only the Iraqi flag was flying. Clashes were reported earlier in the day south of Kirkuk as thousands of residents were reportedly fleeing the Kurdish-controlled city. Meanwhile, crowds of ethnic Turkomans celebrated with some driving in convoys with Iraqi flags and firing shots in the air. Earlier, the Iraqi Army said government troops had moved toward Kurdish-held sites in the northern province of Kirkuk, capturing several installations from Kurdish fighters. The military said on October 16 that pro-government forces took control of roads and infrastructure, including a military base, an airport, and an oil field near the city of Kirkuk. A spokesman for Kurdish forces, Brigadier General Bahzad Ahmad, confirmed that federal forces seized industrial areas south of Kirkuk in fighting that caused "lots of casualties." Kurdish Peshmerga forces took control of much of Kirkuk Province in 2014, when militants from the extremist group Islamic State (IS) swept across northern Iraq. Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi said the operation was necessary to "protect the unity of the country" three weeks after Kurdish officials held an independence referendum in their autonomous region and surrounding areas, including the city of Kirkuk. Kurdish officials said residents voted overwhelmingly for independence in the referendum, which Baghdad denounced as illegal. Crisis talks on October 15 failed to resolve the standoff as Kurdish leaders refused demands by the Baghdad government to reject the referendum result. The United States late on October 15 called on "all actors" in the region to avoid "destabilizing actions that distract from the fight against [IS] and further undermine Iraq's stability." Pentagon spokeswoman Laura Seal said that Washington urged dialogue "as the best option to defuse tensions." The U.S. State Department said it was "very concerned" about the reports of a "confrontation" and that it was engaged with all parties. Oil-rich Kirkuk Province is claimed by both the Kurds and Baghdad. With reporting by AFP, dpa, Reuters, and BBC Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iraq-kirkuk-kurdish-region -clashes-islamic-state/28797237.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 U.S. Urges Iraqi, Kurdish Forces To Avoid Escalation After Reports Of Clashes Near Kirkuk RFE/RL October 16, 2017 U.S. officials urged Iraqi and Kurdish forces "to avoid additional escalatory actions" following reports of artillery clashes after Iraqi government troops moved in a "major operation" against Kurdish positions near the oil-rich city of Kirkuk. The Pentagon late on October 15 said that "all actors" in the region should focus on the common threat of the Islamic State (IS) extremist group and avoid raising tensions among the people of Iraq. The U.S. military added that it continues to support a "unified Iraq" and that dialogue is the best option to defuse tensions between the federal government in Baghdad and leaders of the Kurdish autonomous region in northern Iraq. "We oppose violence from any party and urge against destabilizing actions that distract from the fight against [Islamic State] and further undermine Iraq's stability," Pentagon spokeswoman Laura Seal said. The U.S. comments follow an unconfirmed report by the AFP news agency that Iraqi and Kurdish forces exchanged artillery fire south of the city of Kirkuk, which is claimed by both Baghdad and Kurdish leaders. Kurdish news portal Rudaw also reported clashes. The U.S. State Department later said it was "very concerned" about the reports of a "confrontation" and that it was engaged with all parties. The reports of possible clashes between the two U.S. allies come three weeks after Kurdish officials held an independence referendum in their autonomous region and surrounding areas -- a vote blasted by Baghdad as illegal. Kurdish officials said residents voted overwhelming for independence, and Kurdish Peshmerga forces have looked to solidify their positions outside official Kurdish territory, including in and around the oil-rich city and province of Kirkuk. The United States, other Western powers, and the United Nations opposed the referendum, saying it would lead to instability and hamper the fight against Islamic State (IS) militants. Turkey and Iran, which have significant Kurdish minority populations, also opposed the referendum. Iraqi and Kurdish officials reported just after midnight on October 16 that Iraqi forces had begun moving toward oil fields and an air base held by Peshmerga fighters around Kirkuk. Iraqi Army Lieutenant Colonel Salah el-Kinani told the Reuters news agency that the military's objective was to take control of the K1 air base, west of Kirkuk. Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi gave orders to security forces "to impose security in Kirkuk in cooperation with the population and the Peshmerga." Iraqi state Al-Iraqiya TV subsequently reported that Iraqi government troops, antiterrorist units, and federal police had taken control of "vast" areas around Kirkuk, although it reported no shots had been fired. A local Kurdish police commander said early on October 16 that Kurdish forces remained in control of the province's oil wells. With reporting by Reuters, dpa, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iraq- kurdistan-kirkuk-troops-referendum- independence-iran-turkey/28796297.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 Iraqi Government Accuses Kurds of 'Misinformation Campaign' After Kirkuk Clashes Sputnik News 21:59 16.10.2017(updated 22:06 16.10.2017) Baghdad believes that the clashes between the Iraqi armed forces and Peshmerga fighters in Kirkuk have fallen victim to so-called fake news. WASHINGTON (Sputnik) The government of Iraq has accused Kurdish officials of waging a misinformation campaign to cover up attacks on Iraqi Security Forces in Kirkuk. "Despite clear communications by the government of Iraq on the redeployment of federal forces, there is a concerted misinformation campaign by elements in the Kurdish region to cover up their sinister actions in attempting to disrupt the coordinated and professional movements of the Iraqi Security Forces," the Iraqi embassy in Washington, DC said in a statement. The statement reiterated that Iraqi government forces had communicated their redeployment plan in advance to Kurdish forces, but added that troops from the Iraqi Security Forces were harassed and fired upon by party militias who attempted to cause an outbreak of conflict. It added that the redeployment would move forward and government officials would work with federal forces to ensure the peaceful movement of troops. Clashes have erupted on October 16 as Iraqi troops had established control over the Baba Gurgur and Bai Hassan oil fields, Laylan and Yayci suburbs south of Kirkuk, K-1 military base, Kirkuk airport and a number of other key gas and oil facilities in the region. Baghdad has refused to recognize the results of the referendum, which was held in the autonomy and other territories that are claimed by Erbil and de facto controlled by Kurdistan's military forces, Peshmerga, although not within the autonomy's official borders. Shortly after the referendum, the Iraqi parliament approved the government's decision to deploy troops to the oil-rich Kirkuk province. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address What We Know So Far About Baghdad's Operation in Kirkuk Sputnik News 20:51 16.10.2017(updated 21:07 16.10.2017) Baghdad has launched a military operation in the northern province of Kirkuk, disputed by both the central government and Iraq Kurdistan, following the province's participation in the September 25 referendum on the autonomous region's independence. MOSCOW (Sputnik) The Iraqi armed forces managed to capture strategic positions in the Kirkuk region, which held the vote on the Iraqi Kurdistan's independence too, despite not being a part of the region. Baghdad has refused to recognize the results of the referendum, which was held in the autonomy and other territories that are claimed by Erbil and de facto controlled by Kurdistan's military forces, Peshmerga, although not within the autonomy's official borders. Shortly after the referendum, the Iraqi parliament approved the government's decision to deploy troops to the oil-rich Kirkuk province. Iraqi Kurdistan's vice president said Friday that Erbil would send 6,000 Peshmerga troops to Kirkuk to counter Baghdad's plan to retake control of the area. Local media reported earlier on Monday that 3,000 Kurdish Peshmerga had been additionally deployed to Kirkuk. Baghdad's Gains Iraqi federal police officers entered the Kirkuk administration building earlier on Monday, meeting no resistance, a source from the local government told Sputnik. The central government forces have also occupied several other important facilities in the city. Most regional officials, including governor Najmiddin Karim, had left for Kurdistan. The Iraqi government said that its forces had been instructed to secure bases and federal facilities in the province of Kirkuk. The government also said that Prime Minister Haider Abadi had ordered the Iraqi Security Forces to cooperate with Peshmerga and protect civilians. Hemin Hawrami, senior assistant to Kurdish President Masoud Barzani, said that Peshmerga had clashed with the Iraqi forces attempting to enter the disputed region and pushed them back. Hawrami went on to add that Barzani had also instructed Peshmerga not to initiate altercations and only act when the other side begins the assault. The Iraqi army command issued a statement saying that the Iraqi troops had secured control over the K-1 military base, Baba Gurgur and Bai Hassan oil fields, as well as Kirkuk's irrigation system. The leadership of the Iraqi Kurdish Peshmerga paramilitary forces said later in the day that the attack on Kirkuk could be considered a "declaration of war" on the Kurds. Kurdish Lawmakers's Reaction Nada Khal Khamza, a lawmaker in the Iraqi parliament, a member of the Kurdish coalition, told Sputnik that Baghdad was acting "undemocratically." "All actions to boost military presence will only lead to the escalation [of the conflict], but not to the solution of the problem It seems as if the Iraqi government does not want to hold a dialogue with Kurds," the lawmaker said. According to a lawmaker from Erbil, Tariq Sadiq Rashid, the situation is likely to change at any moment, but "the military power will now play the most important role." Khamza said, however, that Iraqi Kurdistan was still advocating for all parties to sit down at the negotiating table. International Reaction Pentagon has urged both Erbil and Baghdad to avoid further escalation of the conflict, stressing that the United States supports "a unified Iraq." "We strongly urge all sides to avoid additional escalatory actions. We oppose violence from any party, and urge against destabilizing actions that distract from the fight against ISIS [Islamic State, Daesh, a terrorist organization outlawed in Russia] and further undermine Iraq's stability," Laura Seal, a spokeswoman for the Department of Defense, said on Monday in a statement. According to media reports, representatives of the US-led coalition tasked with fighting Daesh, have met with representatives of Iraqi Kurdish militia to discuss the ongoing conflict. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday that Moscow supported a peaceful resolution of the conflict by political and diplomatic means. The Turkish Foreign Ministry said Ankara was ready to help Baghdad drive Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a terrorist organization in Turkey, out of Iraq. On Sunday, the security council of the Iraqi government claimed that Iraqi Kurdistan had summoned non-state armed forces, including the PKK, to the disputed Kirkuk province, and suggested that the move might be seen as the declaration of war on Iraq. Erbil promptly refuted the allegations. Moreover, Ankara has decided to close Turkey's airspace for Iraqi Kurdistan amid the ongoing fighting in Kirkuk. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Baghdad Goal in Kirkuk and Iraqi Kurdistan Is Protection of Locals PM Sputnik News 15:08 16.10.2017 Tensions between Baghdad and Kurdish authorities are on the rise due to the recent advance of the Iraqi army in Kirkuk and Iraqi Kurdistan regions. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi has explained the aim of the country's armed forces. MOSCOW (Sputnik) Baghdad is fulfilling its constitutional duty and security in the disputed city of Kirkuk, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi said on October 16. "We assure our people in Kurdistan and Kirkuk that we are protecting their security and interests, and have only fulfilled the constitutional duty of expanding federal authority, establishing security and protecting national wealth in the city," Abadi said, as quoted in a statement by his office. Earlier in the day, Abadi ordered an operation to restore security in the disputed city. The prime minister added that Baghdad wanted the city to remain "a city of peaceful coexistence for all Iraqis." Earlier on Monday, Iraqi forces gained control of the Kirkuk airport, the K-1 military base, two oil fields, as well as over Kirkuk's irrigation system. The deployment of Iraqi troops to the region was approved by the country's government after the Kurdish independence referendum on September 25, which was declared illegal by Baghdad. Kirkuk held the vote too, despite not being a part of Iraqi Kurdistan. In 2014, Peshmerga liberated the oil-rich province of Kirkuk from the terrorists of Daesh (banned in Russia). Since then, the region has been controlled by Kurdish authorities. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Government to Pay Heavy Price for Kirkuk Campaign - Peshmerga Sputnik News 14:32 16.10.2017(updated 19:07 16.10.2017) Hemin Hawrami, a senior assistant to Kurdish President Masoud Barzani has quoted the Peshmerga statement on the recent Iraqi troops' advance in the Kirkuk region. The statement was made after they managed to gain control over the K-1 military base, Kirkuk airport, two oil fields and over Kirkuk's irrigation system. Peshmerga has condemned the recent Iraqi armed forces advance into Kirkuk, calling it a declaration of war. They also accused a faction in the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan of helping Iraqi military campaign. Jalal Talabani, the leader of the union, has died earlier this month. The Peshmerga is not coordinating its actions with the Iraqi forces, Kurdistan's Peshmerga Ministry's Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jabar Yawar told Sputnik on October 16. "There is no coordination between the Peshmerga and the Iraqi government armed forces in Kirkuk province. There are no channels for such coordination due to the disputes between Iraqi Kurdistan and Baghdad over Kirkuk," Yawar said. In his statement, Abadi ordered the Iraqi forces to cooperate with Peshmerga militia and avoid confrontations. Earlier in the day, he said that Baghdad had urged Peshmerga to "carry on its duties under federal leadership." The Kurdish authorities said that the Peshmerga was permitted to stage counter-attacks, but not begin clashes. Earlier in the day, Iraqi troops have entered the city of al Tuz Khurmato southeast of the contested city of Kirkuk. According to al-Ikhbariya television channel, the servicemen have gained control over the security situation in the region. The representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Iraq, Ali al Bayati, told Sputnik that the recent clashes in the area of the city of al Tuz Khurmato in the north of the province of Salah ed-Dean have already killed two civilians and wounded four, leaving the others trapped without internet and electricity because of blocked roads. On Sunday, October 15 Hemin Hawrami, a senior assistant to Kurdish President Masoud Barzani, said the Peshmerga had destroyed four Humvees that were trying to enter the province of Kirkuk from the south. Later in that day, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi ordered the country's army and police to secure bases and federal installations in Kirkuk, but avoid confrontations with the Kurdish forces. The oil-rich Iraqi province of Kirkuk participated in September's Kurdish independence referendum, despite not being part of Iraqi Kurdistan. In 2014, Peshmerga liberated the oil-rich province of Kirkuk from the terrorists of Daesh (banned in Russia). Since then, the region has been controlled by Kurdish authorities. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Troops Capture Kirkuk Airport From Kurds - Statement Sputnik News 11:59 16.10.2017(updated 13:29 16.10.2017) Tensions between Baghdad and Kirkuk have further escalated following the Iraqi Kurdistan's independence referendum with Iraqi troops conducting an operation in the region. The Iraqi military forces have reported the capture of the Kirkuk airport from the Kurdish army in the oil-rich region, which aims to gain independence like Iraqi Kurdistan. The representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Iraq, Ali al Bayati, told Sputnik that "due to clashes and rocket attacks between Peshmerga forces and federal troops in the area of the city of al Tuz Khurmato in the north of the province of Salah ed- Dean two civilians were killed, four wounded". According to him, since the beginning of the clashes, 250 shells were fired in residential areas. Civilians can not leave the area of al Tuz Khurmato and to take the wounded, because the roads are blocked. Electricity and internet are disabled.A source in the security forces told Sputnik that the clashes between Iraqi forces and the Peshmerga continue in the al Tuz Khurmato area, as well as between the Hasd Al-Shaabi and the Peshmerga in the Makhmur area between Al-Huwayja and Mosul. Also, the Iraqi army has taken control of the Laylan town south of Kirkuk. "The joint forces have secured the Laylan suburb, the Baba Gurgur oil field, and the North Oil Company," the army statement read. Earlier in the day, the Iraqi troops gained control over the K-1 military base, two oil fields, as well as over Kirkuk's irrigation system. On Sunday, Hemin Hawrami, a senior assistant to Kurdish President Masoud Barzani, said the Peshmerga had destroyed four Humvees that were trying to enter the province of Kirkuk from the south. Later in that day, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi ordered the country's army and police to secure bases and federal installations in Kirkuk, but avoid confrontations with the Kurdish forces. The deployment of Iraqi troops to the region was approved by the country's government after the Kurdish independence referendum on September 25, which was declared illegal by Baghdad. Kirkuk held the vote too, despite not being a part of Iraqi Kurdistan. The oil-rich Iraqi province of Kirkuk participated in September's Kurdish independence referendum, despite not being part of Iraqi Kurdistan. In 2014, Peshmerga liberated the oil-rich province of Kirkuk from the terrorists of Daesh (banned in Russia). Since then, the region has been controlled by Kurdish authorities. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Forces Seize Airbase From Kurdish Troops in Kirkuk Sputnik News 10:26 16.10.2017(updated 11:35 16.10.2017) Iraqi military forces have reported the capture among several other positions of the K1 airbase from Kurdish troops in the Peshmerga-controlled province of Kirkuk in a bid to gain control of the oil-rich region after the independence referendum. According to the Iraqi defense forces' statement, the Iraqi troops gained control over the K-1 military base, Baba Gurgur and Bai Hassan oil fields, as well as over Kirkuk's irrigation system. The statement added that the Iraqi forces gained control over North Gas Company's (NGC) gas facility and gas refinery, a power plant and a police station. Tarklan settlement and Baiji town, as well as two checkpoints in the province, are also under control of Iraqi forces, as they continue to advance, the statement read. The deployment of Iraqi troops to the region was approved by the country's government after the Kurdish independence referendum on September 25, which was declared illegal by Baghdad. Kirkuk held the vote too, despite not being a part of Iraqi Kurdistan. There has been no confirmation of the Iraqi armed forces' advance from the Kurdistan Regional Government, but Kurdish Rudaw TV channel reported Peshmerga forces losing position south of Kirkuk. Late on Sunday, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi ordered the country's army and police to secure bases and federal installations in Kirkuk, but avoid confrontations with the Kurdish forces. He also ordered to cooperate with Peshmerga militia and avoid confrontations. However, local media reported that clashes had already taken place between the Iraqi forces and the Kurdish Peshmerga. The oil-rich Iraqi province of Kirkuk participated in September's Kurdish independence referendum, despite not being part of Iraqi Kurdistan. In 2014, Peshmerga liberated the oil-rich province of Kirkuk from the terrorists of Daesh (banned in Russia). Since then, the region has been controlled by Kurdish authorities. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kirkuk Shuttered as Iraqi Forces Advance on Kurdish Peshmerga By Heather Murdock, Halan Ibrahim Shekha October 16, 2017 Iraqi forces shut down access both in and out of Kirkuk Monday as fighting with Kurdish Peshemerga forces grew worse. Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) moved into Kirkuk in the early hours of Monday and continue to fight Kurdish Peshmerga soldiers in the contested oil city, in addition to occupying Kirkuk airport. "We were defending the city but eventually we had no choice but to retreat," said Jabar Kareem, 37, a Peshmerga soldier heading north out of Kirkuk on Monday afternoon, his eyelashes dusty from the crowded road. "They are fighting with advanced weaponry." By evening, PMU forces had moved to the northern part of the city and mortars fell as far as seven kilometers beyond Kirkuk. Peshmerga soldiers manning the last point outside the city fully controlled by Kurdish authorities told us they were also taking sniper fire and that families that wanted to flee are now trapped inside the city. After about five minutes with the soldiers, they ordered us away, saying they could see two PMU vehicles rapidly approaching their position. PMUs, locally known as Hashd Shaaby, are primarily a Shia fighting force formalized under Baghdad as they fought along other Iraqi and coalition forces during the battle with Islamic State militants. Allied against IS, Kurdish Peshmerga and PMU fighters have been facing off for days around Kirkuk, with both sides massing soldiers and heavy weaponry, and building berms and other defensive lines. Volunteer fighters Meanwhile Kurdish civilians are pulling out personal weapons and flocking towards Kirkuk as volunteers for the Peshmerga fighters. "When we are attacked, we are all Peshmerga," says Renas Hassan, 27, normally a taxi driver but now armed and on his way to Kirkuk. "We will not let our city go." PMU forces are believed to be in the process of capturing Kirkuk oil fields, which could cut the road off from Irbil, the Kurdistan Region's capital. Kirkuk has long been claimed as both part of the Kurdistan Region in the north and part of Arab Iraq. In late September, the Kurdistan Region voted overwhelmingly in support of independence in a referendum, despite objections from the Iraqi central government in Baghdad and the international community. Baghdad responded by grounding international flights to and from the region and imposing other sanctions. Irbil calls the sanctions and the battle that began today an attack on Kurdistan. 'Federal authority ' But Baghdad says by taking Kirkuk, which was controlled militarily by Irbil and administered by both capitals, it is simply asserting its federal authority and blames the Kurdish leadership for the conflict. In a statement posted online Monday, Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi calls the idea of Kurdish independence "the establishment of a state on an ethnic and racial basis" and says the referendum was a violation of Iraqi law and the will of the international community. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Forces Seize Key Sites in Kirkuk, Kurdish Stronghold By Ken Bredemeier October 16, 2017 Iraqi government forces swept into the Kurdish-held city of Kirkuk on Monday, capturing the governor's office, key military sites and an oil field. In a lightning-fast strike, Baghdad's U.S.-trained troops entered the northern city and, on orders from Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, raised Iraqi flags in place of the Kurdish banners. The move came less than a day after launching the operation in response to last month's Kurdish vote for independence that the central government declared was illegal. Baghdad described the advance as largely unopposed, but an aid organization said some Kurdish peshmerga and Iraqi fighters were killed in an overnight clash south of Kirkuk before the government troops advanced into the city. The peshmerga said Baghdad would pay "a heavy price" for the "war on the Kurdistan people." When asked about the situation during a press briefing at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is remaining neutral, noting the "very good relationship" with the Kurds and that "we've also been on the side of Iraq." "We don't like the fact that they're clashing," Trump said Monday. "We are not taking sides in that battle." Washington, which has supported the Iraqi forces and helped train Kurdish fighters in the battle against Islamic State jihadists, called for calm in the skirmish over Kirkuk, not wanting to ignite a new front in Iraq's 14-year civil war. "We are monitoring the situation in Kirkuk closely and are very concerned by reports of a confrontation," the U.S. State Department said. "We are engaged with all parties in Iraq to de-escalate tension." Earlier, the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad said, "We call on all parties to immediately cease military action and restore calm while we continue to work with officials from the central and regional governments to reduce tensions and avoid further clashes. We support the peaceful exercise of joint administration by the central and regional governments, consistent with the Iraqi Constitution, in all disputed areas." The embassy said Islamic State "remains the true enemy of Iraq, and we urge all parties to remain focused on finishing the liberation of their country from this menace." On Capitol Hill, Senator Jack Reed, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, told VOA the situation could inhibit efforts to fight the Islamic State militant group, urging calm to avoid a "bitter, sectarian strife." "There is great danger that military actions in Kirkuk could get out of control and that's something that we have be very, very conscious of and put all we can in terms of diplomatic pressure on the government, both in Baghdad and in Irbil, to pull back and discuss future arrangements," Reed said. Al-Abadi said the military operation was necessary to "protect the unity of the country, which was in danger of partition" because of the Kurdish referendum. "We call upon all citizens to cooperate with our heroic armed forces, which are committed to our strict directives to protect civilians in the first place, and to impose security and order, and to protect state installations and institutions," al-Abadi said. "We have only acted to fulfill our constitutional duty to extend federal authority and impose security and protect the national wealth in this city, which we want to remain a city of peaceful coexistence for all Iraqis," he said. Before Monday's Kirkuk seizure, Iraqi state television reported that government troops had taken control of "vast areas" in Kirkuk province overnight. Kurdish officials disputed that account, but said Iraqi security forces backed by militias were involved in a "major, multi-pronged operation" meant to enter Kirkuk city and seize the air base and oil fields. The Kurdistan Regional Security Council said the pro-government fighters had advanced from Taza Khurmatu, about 10 kilometers south of Kirkuk, to launch an "unprovoked attack" on peshmerga forces. Kurds have controlled Kirkuk city since pushing out Islamic State fighters who swept into Iraq in 2014, and have long disagreed with the central government over who should control areas in the surrounding province, including its oil fields. Tensions rose further three weeks ago when the government of the semi-autonomous Kurdish region held the independence referendum that was overwhelmingly approved by those who voted. Abadi's government rejected the referendum as illegal, as did neighboring Turkey and Iran, which also have large Kurdish populations. The United States said the vote lacked legitimacy and that it supports a "united" Iraq. During the multi-national fight against Islamic State, the United States has provided military supplies and training to both the Iraqi armed forces and the peshmerga. VOA's Carla Babb, Chris Hannas and Nike Ching contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IRGC has no role in operations in Kirkuk: Velayati ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Tue / 17 October 2017 / 16:27 Tehran (ISNA)Iranian Supreme Leader's top adviser emphasized that Iran has no role in the operations in Kirkuk and most of the Kurdish people of Iraq are against the ambitious attempt of Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) President Masoud Barzani. On the sidelines of his meeting with France's special envoy to Syria, Iranian Supreme Leader's top adviser for international affairs Ali Akbar Velayati stressed that relations between Iran and France are growing. "I insisted during our meeting on the protection of the territorial integrity in Syria and the prevention of any destruction by the foreign countries in Syria," he added. "The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has had no interference in Kirkuk operations and most of the Kurdish people of Iraq are against the ambitious attempt of Massoud Barzani," Velayati stressed. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi forces reestablish security in Kirkuk after pushing out Kurds Iran Press TV Tue Oct 17, 2017 08:10AM Thousands of civilians have returned to the Iraqi city of Kirkuk after fleeing as government forces pushed Kurdish militants out of the oil-rich city and established security. Residents headed back along a main highway to the city's east on Tuesday with their children and belongings packed in their cars. Police called on the residents, who had fled in their thousands for fear of a potential armed confrontation, to return, giving assurances that the situation is stable. The city is now under a night-time curfew. In a televised address, Iraqi President Fuad Masum said troops had no choice but to take over the administration of Kirkuk after Kurdish authorities held a referendum for independence last month. Masum, himself a Kurd, said the independence vote "provoked dangerous disputes" between Baghdad and Irbil, the capital of Iraq's Kurdish autonomous region. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi also said the Kurdish referendum "is finished and has become a thing of the past." Addressing a news conference in Baghdad, Abadi called for dialog with Kurdish authorities to resolve the dispute "under the Constitution." Government buildings, oil fields retaken Iraq's Alforat news agency also said army forces were now in control of all of the city's government buildings, state-owned North Oil and North Gas companies, the Kirkuk International Airport, and K-1 Airbase. Cited by Reuters, an Iraqi army officer said government forces had also taken control of all oilfields operated by the North Oil Company in the province. Government troops have also reopened the highway linking the Kirkuk City and the capital Baghdad, Iraq's al-Sumariyah television network reported. Kurdish forces have been holding parts of Iraqi territory since 2014, when Daesh began an offensive across Iraq and the Kurds began fighting it and overrunning territory in the process. The Baghdad government has long insisted that the Kurds pull out of the territories they had overrun. But the Kurdish militants have refused. Ever since a controversial referendum on secession in Iraqi Kurdistan on September 25, the Iraqi government has lost patience, sending security forces to retake Kurdish-held areas. Baghdad also ordered the Kurdistan region to swiftly hand over its border crossings and airports. The region refused and later sent thousands of Peshmerga and other militants to Kirkuk Province, which it has been claiming in its entirety for long. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered that national flags be hoisted on public buildings in all of Kirkuk's neighborhoods. Crowds on the streets of Kirkuk's southern outskirts welcomed army forces as they entered the city. The Peshmerga have called the takeover "a flagrant declaration of war" and vowed that Iraq will pay a "heavy price." Kurds retreat before Iraqi forces start op. near Iran border Meanwhile, Kurdish Peshmerga forces pulled out from the area of Khanaqin, on the border with Iran, as Iraqi forces prepared to take over their positions, security sources said. A small oil field, Khana, is located in the area. Iraqi forces take control of Sinjar, other towns Meanwhile, Iraqi army and Hashd al-Sha'bi forces have taken control of the city of Sinjar in Nineveh Province following a pullout by Kurdish militants. Government forces took control of all of Sinjar on Tuesday after the withdrawal a day earlier of Kurdish Peshmerga militants. The Peshmerga militants also left the towns of Bashiqa and Bahzani in Nineveh. Kurds clash with police in London Separately, Kurdish separatists have clashed with police in front of Iraq's Embassy in London. Iraq's Foreign Ministry reacted by saying that the protesters had engaged in "criminal" activity and demanding that the UK investigate them. 'Iran closes Kurdistan border crossing' Following the referendum, Iraq demanded neighbors Iran and Turkey to close their respective borders with Kurdistan. Iran closed its airspace with Iraqi Kurdistan at the time, and on Monday, Faramarz Akbari, the governor of Qasr-e-Shirin, said Iran had since a day earlier temporarily closed its Parviz Khan Border Crossing in Kermanshah Province, which borders Iraq's Kurdistan. He said it would likely remain closed until Iraqi security forces replace the Kurdish militants on the borders. This is the first time an Iranian official has confirmed the closure of a land border with Iraq's Kurdish region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. 'Very Concerned' By Reported Violence Around Kirkuk RFE/RL October 17, 2017 Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi says the independence referendum held last month in Iraq's Kurdish autonomous region is "a thing of the past" after government forces seized territory from Kurds across the north of the country. Abadi made the comments at an October 17 news conference in Baghdad, a day after the Iraqi Army entered the northern Kirkuk province. The operation comes three weeks after the Kurdish region held the independence referendum that infuriated Baghdad. Abadi told the news conference that the referendum "is finished and has become a thing of the past," though he called for a dialogue with Kurdish leaders "under the constitution." Residents of the Kurdish-controlled areas, including Kirkuk, largely backed secession from Iraq in the September 25 referendum. Kurdish Peshmerga forces took control of much of Kirkuk Province in 2014, when militants from the extremist group Islamic State swept across northern Iraq. The Baghdad government said earlier on October 17 that Peshmerga soldiers withdrew without fighting, but clashes were reported. The United States, which opposed the referendum, called for "calm" after Iraqi government forces seized Kirkuk but said it wouldn't take sides in the dispute. The U.S. military said on October 17 that it had received conflicting reports of the death toll in a battle outside Kirkuk the previous day, with between three and 11 fighters killed. Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, AP, and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iraq-kirkuk-kudish-region-united- states-concerned/28799252.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 Is the Dream Of Kurdish Independence Now Over? By Jamie Dettmer October 17, 2017 The independence dream of Iraq's Kurds may be over. It was felled by a lightening advance by Iraqi counter-terror units, trained and equipped by the United States, and Shi'ite militias, trained and equipped by Iran, who seized the disputed city Kirkuk and its surrounding oilfields after isolated skirmishes and a withdrawal order by Peshmerga commanders. The Peshmerga commanders either had no stomach for a fight or had already entered into a secret deal with the central government in Baghdad to retreat. Amid accusations of betrayal, Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, the Peshmerga commander of 70 Force, a key unit charged with the defense of Kirkuk's southern approaches, said he had ordered his men to withdraw to protect their lives in the face of overwhelming forces. "I bear all the responsibilities in success and failure," Mustafa told the Kurdish news outlet Rudaw. He dismissed claims there was a prior deal by some Peshmerga commanders to allow the Iraqi army to enter the city "without a fight." In Washington, as the advance into Kirkuk unfolded, a U.S. defense spokesman told reporters Iraqi forces the United States is "monitoring movements of military vehicles and personnel in the vicinity of Kirkuk." He added: "These movements of military vehicles so far have been coordinated movements, not attacks." Col. Rob Manning added: "We are aware of reports of a limited exchange of fireand we believe this to have been an isolated incident," he said of media reports of fighting between Iraqi and Kurdish fighters. In Irbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, rival Kurdish factions blamed each other for the loss of Kirkuk and surrounding oilfields, holding out the prospect of Kurd-on-Kurd retaliation. In Kirkuk, there were some incidents of local Kurds angry with the withdrawal firing at retreating Peshmerga. Who's Fighting? The Kurdish Peshmerga and forces loyal to Baghdad, the latter consisting of the Iraqi army, counter-terror forces and Shi'ite militias known as the Popular Mobilization Forces. Outside Iraq most people think of the Peshmerga as a single force but it is in fact largely split and controlled separately by rival Kurdish parties, the Democratic Party of Kurdistan, the party of Kurdistan's president, Masoud Barzani, and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, which owes allegiance to the Talabani family, who are supportive of the idea of Iraq remaining one country. The withdrawal of Peshmerga forces in the face of the Iraqi advance Monday is being blamed by some of Barzani's supporters on the Patriotic Union, which they suspect cut a secret deal with Baghdad. Why is Kirkuk Important? The city is 98 kilometers south of Irbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. Command of the city dictates control of the surrounding oilfields that the Kurdistan Regional Government was banking on to make an independent Kurdistan economically viable. Without the oil, Kurdistan is even less feasible as a breakaway state than it was with the oil some critics of independence thought even before Monday's lightning strike by the Iraqi army Kurdistan would struggle to make ends meet as an independent country. Is Kirkuk a Kurdish city? The Kurds say it is. They have long disputed Arab claims, arguing that the late Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein, changed the demographic make-up of Kirkuk by moving Arab families into the city and surrounding areas. And the demographic profile of the city has undergone changes since the U.S. invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein and the war against the Islamic State terror group. But the city and the province of Kirkuk has had a highly diverse population for centuries and has been a home for Kurds, Turkmen, Arabs and Assyrians all of whom claim it as theirs. How Come Kirkuk was controlled by the Kurds? Iraqi forces fled the city on 12 June 2014 in the face of military advances by the Islamic State terror group across northern Iraq. Kurdish Peshmerga forces took over to protect the city form the jihadists. What are the interests of regional powers in the dispute over Kirkuk and what is the attitude of Washington and Moscow? None of the regional powers Turkey, Iran and Syria wanted the Iraqi Kurds to secede from Iraq. All three feared that an independent Kurdistan would encourage Kurdish separatists in their own countries. Since the independence vote last month, Tehran, Ankara and Tehran have been coordinating their responses to a degree not seen before and relations have noticeably warmed between the Turks and the Iranians with Ankara pushing to hold joint military exercises with Iran's forces. Hours after the Iraqi army and Shi'ite militias launched their operation to seize Kirkuk, Ankara announced it was closing Turkish airspace to planes flying into and out of the KRG and would hand over the Ibrahim Halil border crossing on the KRG side of the border with Turkey, which it has controlled for months, back to the Iraqi central government. The U.S. frowned on September's KRG independence vote and along with European powers urged the Kurdish president, Masoud Barzani, not to hold it. The Western powers want Iraq to remain one state, fearing that if it doesn't there will be forever war pitting Kurds, Sunnis and Shi'ites against each other. Moscow has been more nuanced and has sought in recent years to develop cooperation with both the central government in Baghdad and the KRG. Russia has long pursued friendly relations with the Kurds stretching back to 1946 when it backed a Kurdish Autonomous Republic mainly because it undermined Western plans for Iraq. But Russian leader Vladimir Putin disapproves of breakaway states in principle fearing they will could encourage secessionist movements in Russia. In the weeks leading up to September's independence vote, Russian oil giant Rosneft announced a billion-dollar investment in natural gas pipelines in Kurdistan. But Moscow remained ambiguous about its position when it came to the vote. What impact will the seizing of Kirkuk have on fight against Islamic State? That is the question that most exercises Washington. If the Kurds now decide to fight back against the Iraqi army and supporting Shi'ite militias, it could have a major impact as it would force Baghdad to redeploy forces targeting the jihadists and distract the central government from finishing off IS. But if the Kurds don't and the Iraqis halt where they are and don't push on from the disputed territories and try to enter Irbil then the impact may be minimal. If not and open war breaks out, then IS could find room to maneuver to re-group. What Now? Having seized Kirkuk, Baghdad has all but destroyed Kurds' independence ambition. The Iraqis may now turn magnanimous and search for a way to reconcile Irbil to the change in fortunes. In Kurdistan there could be some ugly recriminations between Kurdish factions. How they may play is hard to predict. Certainly President Barzani and his family come out of this weakened. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Forces Seize Kirkuk Oil Fields, Recapture Kurdish Territory By Ken Bredemeier October 17, 2017 Iraqi forces advanced rapidly through the northern reaches of the country Tuesday, recapturing territory and the two largest oil fields from Kurds, virtually ending their hopes for an independent state. A day after seizing Kirkuk, a city of a million people, Baghdad's troops took back towns and the countryside, with the Kurds retreating without a fight. The Bai Hasan and Avana oil fields accounted for about 250,000 barrels of production a day of the 650,000 the autonomous Kurdish region exported to finance its operations. Their loss deals an economic blow to Kurdish efforts to declare independence from the central government in Baghdad. Kurds voted in a referendum last month for a separate state, but Baghdad declared the vote illegal. Iraqi oil minister Jabar al-Luaibi said Baghdad would now try to boost production at the Kirkuk oil fields to more than one million barrels a day. The U.S. has trained both the Iraqi forces and the Kurdish Peshmerga fighters, aligning with them jointly in the fight against Islamic State jihadists. U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday that the U.S. has taken no sides as the balance of power shifts in northern Iraq. 'Peaceful handover' U.S. Army Colonel Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the U.S.-supported coalition fighting Islamic State, said, "What we have seen is a peaceful handover of areas around Kirkuk. They handed over the keys if you will." He said that aside from a skirmish south of Kirkuk early Monday that claimed the lives of Iraqi forces and Peshmerga fighters after miscommunications at a Kurdish checkpoint, "there have been no further reports of armed conflict or contact between the two groups." He said U.S. military commanders are continuing to "monitor the situation, and our leaders, talking with counterparts in both the Iraqi Security Forces and the Peshmerga, urge all sides to avoid escalation. These tensions distract from our unified fight against ISIS, which remains a very real threat here in Iraq." A Yazidi group allied with Baghdad also took control of the town of Sinjar, with Kurdish forces leaving before dawn Tuesday. The Peshmerga also pulled out of the long-disputed Khanaqin region near the Iranian border. The Kurds had taken control of the territory they yielded this week in the chaos following the Islamic State advance through northern and western Iraq in 2014. Now the jihadists have also lost much of the vast sweep of lands they claimed in Iraq and Syria, including Raqqa in northern Syria, once the self-proclaimed capital of their religious caliphate. Iraqi flags raised Tuesday's developments followed a swift move by Iraqi government forces Monday to capture the Kirkuk governor's office, key military sites and an oil field. The U.S.-trained troops, acting on orders from Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, raised Iraqi flags in place of Kurdish banners. The U.S. Defense Department, which has supported the Iraqi forces and helped train Kurdish fighters in the battle against Islamic State militants, said Monday the Iraqi troop movements were "coordinated" with Peshmerga force withdrawals. "We continue to support a unified Iraq. Dialogue remains the best option to defuse ongoing tensions and longstanding issues," Pentagon spokesman Army Colonel Robert Manning told reporters Monday. 'Heavy price' However, the Peshmerga said Baghdad would pay "a heavy price" for the "war on the Kurdistan people." When asked about the situation during a press briefing at the White House, Trump said the United States is remaining neutral, noting the "very good relationship" with the Kurds and that "we've also been on the side of Iraq." "We don't like the fact that they're clashing," Trump said. "We are not taking sides in that battle." Carla Babb, Nike Ching, Michael Bowman, Serhan Akyildiz and Jeff Seldin contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN humanitarian officials call for global solidarity ahead of pledging conference on Rohingya refugee crisis 16 October 2017 Senior United Nations officials are urging the international community to come together in support of a 23 October pledging conference to "send a strong message to Rohingya refugees and their generous hosts in Bangladesh that the world is there for them in their greatest time of need." Since late August, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya trying to escape discrimination and persecution in Myanmar's Rakhine state have fled to neighbouring Bangladesh, sparking the world's fastest-growing humanitarian emergency, according to the United Nations. "We call on the international community to intensify efforts to bring a peaceful solution to the plight of the Rohingya, to end the desperate exodus, to support host communities and ensure the conditions that will allow for refugees' eventual voluntary return in safety and dignity," the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said in a joint statement Monday. "The origins and, thus, the solutions to this crisis lie in Myanmar," added the UN High Commission for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, the UN aid chief, Mark Lowcock, the Director General, of IOM, William Lacy Swing. They underscored that Bangladesh has kept its borders open, offering safety and shelter to fleeing families. "We have been moved by the welcome and generosity shown by the local communities towards the refugees," the senior officials stated, while noting their respective agencies have been working in overdrive with the Government of Bangladesh, local charities, volunteers and non-governmental organizations to provide assistance. Still much more is urgently needed. The refugees are fully dependent on humanitarian assistance for food, water, health and other essential needs as basic services are under severe strain and some sites lack access to potable water and sanitation facilities, raising health risks for both the refugees and the hosting communities. "The efforts must be scaled up and expanded to receive and protect refugees and ensure they are provided with basic shelter and acceptable living conditions. Every day more vulnerable people arrive with very little if anything and settle either in overcrowded existing camps or extremely congested makeshift sites," the statement continued. It announced that the ministerial-level pledging conference, set to be held in Geneva on 23 October, organized by OCHA, IOM and UNHCR and co-hosted by the European Union and Kuwait, will provide Governments an opportunity to show their solidarity and share the burden and responsibility. "Their further generous support for the Joint Response Plan, which was recently launched by the UN and partners, is urgently needed to sustain and scale up the large humanitarian effort already under way. The plan requires $434 million to meet the life-saving needs of all Rohingya refugees and their host communities together an estimated 1.2 million people for the difficult months to come," added the statement. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WFP shelved Rohingya report under Myanmar pressure: The Guardian Iran Press TV Tue Oct 17, 2017 07:38AM A report has revealed that the UN World Food Program (WFP) withdrew a critical report on spiraling food crisis in Myanmar's Muslim-populated areas under pressure from its government. The six-page report, compiled by the UN food agency in July, voiced alarm over severe hunger among Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar's Rakhine State, saying more than 80,000 children under the age of five "wasting" due to rapid weight loss, The Guardian reported on Tuesday. The report was, however, withdrawn from the WFP's website "following a request by the government to conduct a joint review." The document was then replaced with a statement, saying Myanmar and the WFP were "collaborating on a revised version," and that the initial report should not be cited in any way. The UN food aid agency later noted that, the "WFP stands by its original assessment, which was conducted jointly with local authorities in Rakhine state However WFP recognizes that in a dynamic and evolving situation, it is important to coordinate closely with all partners, including the government." Speaking on condition of anonymity, a consultant with the UN's Myanmar office said the WFP's in-country team was already seriously concerned about the report getting too much attention. The assessment indicated that controversial WFP food aid cuts to internally displaced Rohingya over the previous two years had left people in dire need of help, according to the consultant. "They knew it was potentially damaging. It was all to do with the fact that internally, there was a belief that the decision made to stop feeding some of the [internally displaced people] was actually causing people serious harm, in terms of food security, hunger and even starvation," the source said. "There was a real sense that they had things to hide in their work in Myanmar. Things had not been going to plan there," he added. The WFP report called for further humanitarian assistance for more than 225,000 people, after the agency only found one-third of all homes in one district, Maungdaw, were facing extreme food deprivation. According to UNICEF, nearly 150,000 Rohingya women and children refugees need urgent support to prevent malnutrition or to recover from it. UNICEF and other agencies estimate that 60 percent of the refugees are children, thousands of them being unaccompanied. The Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine have been subjected to government-backed violence by soldiers and Buddhist mobs since October 2016. The violence has seen a sharp rise since late August. Over the past weeks, there have been numerous reports of systematic violence against Rakhine-based Muslims, including random shootings, rape and arson attacks, in what is censured by the UN as an ethnic cleansing campaign against the minority group. According to the latest UN figures, some 582,000 Rohingya refugees have now fled Myanmar for Bangladesh since late August, while between 10,000 to 15,000 others have amassed near a crossing point, waiting to join the makeshift camps on the Bangladeshi border. On Monday, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHC) released aerial footage, showing huge columns of thousands of refugees snaking through Anzuman Para and Palong Khali in the Chittagong Division. The refugees are seen carrying their belongings on foot along narrow paths flanked by rivers. The fleeing Muslims say the Myanmarese army has increased pressure on the remaining Rohingya to drive them out of their villages. The UN and other agencies have also warned about humanitarian problems that could occur in crowded refugee camps in Bangladesh, especially given the high number of vulnerable children and women living in those areas. Rohingya Muslims, recognized by the UN as the world's most persecuted minority group, are denied Myanmarese citizenship as country's leadership and Buddhist majority brand them illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Elections Chief Says Navalny Cannot Run Until 2028 RFE/RL October 17, 2017 Russia's top election official says that opposition politician Aleksei Navalny will not be eligible to run for office until about 2028. Speaking at a youth festival in the southern city of Sochi, Central Election Commission chief Ella Pamfilova warned Navalny and his backers against arguing that he can seek the presidency in a March 2018 vote. Navalny, 41, has campaigned actively ahead of the election, in which President Vladimir Putin is widely expected to seek and secure a fourth term in the Kremlin. But the CEC said in June that he is ineligible to run for public office because of a financial-crimes conviction in one of two high-profile cases that he says were fabricated by authorities for political reasons. "Mr. Navalny is a young politician with a future. He has every chance," state-run news agency TASS quoted Pamfilova as saying. Due to the conviction, however, he cannot run for office until "sometime in about 2028 plus six months," she said. Navalny has organized protests in cities nationwide on several occasions in recent months, including on Putin's 65th birthday on October 7. Ralliers called on the authorities to let Navalny run in the election, scheduled for March 18, and hundreds were detained by police. Pamfilova accused allies of Navalny of misinterpreting the law and "brainwashing" young people. She said that when Navalny's "so-called lawyers try to put false information into kids' heads," saying that he has the right to run, "that is a lie." If Putin serves another term starting in 2018, he would be constitutionally barred from running in the subsequent election in 2024. The next presidential election after that is due to be held in 2030. In addition to organizing street protests, Navalny has rattled the Kremlin by publishing reports alleging high-level corruption among allies of Putin. With reporting by TASS and Interfax Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-navalny-elections -pamfilova-presidency/28799529.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 Arms shipments to Saudis skyrocket under Trump: Report Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 05:38PM US President Donald Trump, who repeatedly condemned Saudi policies during the 2016 election campaign, has allowed more than a billion dollars worth of arms to be delivered to the Saudi kingdom, which is committing war crimes in the neighboring Yemen, a new report shows. According to a new analysis of US Census Bureau export data conducted by The Daily Beast, the United States has delivered $1.56 billion worth of weapons to Saudi Arabia since Trump's inauguration in January. In the first eight months of 2017, the Trump administration more than doubled its bombs, missiles, and ammunition deliveries to Saudi Arabia, when compared with the first eight months of 2016, under the administration of former President Barack Obama, the report pointed out. The US sold Saudi Arabia $561 million in bombs and missiles, $503 million in armored fighting vehicles and parts, and $552 million in parts to maintain warplanes which the kingdom is using in its war of aggression against Yemen. Human rights groups and arms monitoring experts have voiced concerns over Washington's supply of weapons to Saudi Arabia. "The United States should not be sending more weapons into an unwinnable conflict and into the hands of a country that uses US weapons against civilian targets," Jeff Abramson, a senior fellow at the Arms Control Association, told the online publication. "Instead, the Trump administration should use its influence to find a political solution to the disastrous war in Yemen, which has led to a massive humanitarian crisis," he added. Saudi Arabia has been incessantly pounding Yemen since March 2015 in an attempt to bring back to power the resigned president, Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, who is a staunch ally of Riyadh, and to undermine the Houthi Ansarullah movement. The Riyadh regime has, however, failed to reach its goals despite suffering great expense. The military aggression has claimed the lives of more than 12,000 people, most of them civilians. Since 2011, the Saudi regime has also been sponsoring militants fighting against the Syrian government, which has left hundreds of thousands of people dead and millions more displaced. London and Washington have been providing logistic and intelligence support to Saudi Arabia, while equipping the kingdom's military forces with a wide array of weapons including illegal munitions like cluster bombs. During the first leg of his maiden overseas trip to Saudi Arabia in May, Trump signed a $110 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria intercepts Israeli warplanes near Lebanese border: Army Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 05:59PM The Syrian army says its air defense has responded to an Israeli aerial violation of the Arab country's territory in the vicinity of the Lebanese border, hitting an intruding warplane and forcing the fighter jets to retreat. According to a statement released by Syria's General Command of the Army and Armed Forces, carried by the country's official news agency, SANA, an undeclared number of Israeli warplanes violated Syria's airspace on the border with Lebanon in Baalbek area at 08:51 a.m. local time on Monday. An anti-aircraft battery of the Syrian army, located some 50 kilometers from the capital Damascus, then "responded and directly hit one of the jets, forcing [the enemy] to flee," the statement further read, adding that the Israeli jets returned fire at 11:38 a.m. local time by firing multiple missiles from inside the occupied territories that hit a Syrian army position in the countryside of the capital, resulting in material damage. The army further threatened Israel with "dangerous repercussions" for the airstrikes and its repeated aerial aggression attempts, stressing Syria's determination to continue its war against the terrorist groups, "Israel's arm in the region." The Israeli military, for its part, issued a statement later in the day, saying that the fleet in fact consisted of Israeli reconnaissance planes, which "were in the skies over Lebanon, and not in Syria." It added that neither of the Israeli warplanes sustained damage in the process and returned home "safely." During the past few years, Israel has frequently attacked military targets in Syria in what is considered as an attempt to prop up terrorist groups that have been suffering heavy defeats in their fight against Syrian government forces. Back in April 2015, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu officially admitted for the first time that the regime's military had conducted strikes in Syrian territory. Damascus says Israel and its Western and regional allies are aiding Takfiri terrorist groups operating inside the Arab country, while the Tel Aviv regime's military carries out such sporadic strikes against Syrian government forces. The Israeli regime has even set up field hospitals to treat wounded militants evacuated from Syria. Moreover, the Syrian army has repeatedly seized huge quantities of Israeli-made weapons and advanced military equipment from the foreign-backed militants inside Syria. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lebanon president urges return of Syrian refugees to stable areas Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 02:32PM Lebanese President Michel Aoun has called for a gradual return of Syrian refugees to their country, saying Lebanon can no longer cope with the burden. "My country cannot handle it anymore," Aoun said Monday of some 1.5 million Syrian refugees living in Lebanon. Aoun, who was addressing a group of international envoys in the Lebanese capital Beirut, called on global powers to help start the process of return for the Syrian refugees. Many in Lebanon, a country of around six million people to the west of Syria, are demanding that the government facilitate the return of Syrians who have arrived in the country since a foreign-backed war started in Syria in 2011, arguing the Syrian government has managed to purge many areas of terrorists and refugees can now safely return to their homes. Aoun said many areas in Syria have clearly become calmer and more stable in light of Syrian government advances against militants, adding, however, that the return of refugees must be carried out without any political consideration in mind. "The return of displaced to stable and low-tension areas must be carried out without attaching it to reaching a political solution," he said. Lebanese authorities have called on the international community to step up financial support for Beirut over the refugees. Beirut says international donations have failed to meet the demands of the large population of Syrians living in camps and other facilities in Lebanon. In his Monday speech, Aoun said facilitating the return of Syrians to their country would also benefit the international community, warning that otherwise existing political, economic and social problems in Lebanon would get out of hand. In addition to the burden of refugees, Lebanon has also been suffering from the spillover of violence to its border regions. In operations in August, Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement, which has been assisting Syrian government in the war on terror, helped the clearance of border areas of terrorists of Daesh and other Takfiri groups. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's Anti-Terrorist Operation in Syria Close to its End - Defense Minister Sputnik News 20:35 16.10.2017(updated 21:00 16.10.2017) Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has commented on the results of the Moscow's operation in Syria aimed to support the government's fight against terrorists amid the ongoing operation in the Deir ez-Zor province. Russian Defense Minister has said that the Russian military campaign in Syria "is about to be completed." Shoigu said at a meeting with his Israeli counterpart Avigdor Lieberman that he wants to discuss "several issues that require urgent solutions and discussion of the prospects for further development of the situation in Syria." Shoigu has arrived on a two-day visit to Israel to discuss issues of Russia-Israel military and military-technical cooperation, as well as regional security problems, including the Syrian conflict. Shoigu also expressed certainty that the current talks would help "to better understand each other," and contribute to the strengthening of friendly relations between the Russian and Israeli armed forces. The Russian defense minister's statement comes the next day after the Syrian army established control over the largest Daesh hotbed in the Deir ez-Zor province, the town of al-Mayadeen. The government forces' operation to wipe out remaining terrorists from the province with Russia's aerial support is underway following the lifting of the three-year Daesh siege of the city of Deir ez-Zor in September. Russia launched a military operation in Syria in September 2015 to provide air support for Syrian government forces, driving Daesh militants from most of the country's territory. According to latest data released by the Russian Defense Ministry, 92 percent of Syria has been freed from terrorists. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria Following Israeli Attack: IDF Jets Had Violated Our Airspace Sputnik News 18:44 16.10.2017(updated 23:24 16.10.2017) The Israeli army reported that its Air Force has destroyed an anti-aircraft battery in Syria in a response to an alleged shelling of Israeli planes that were conducting a reconnaissance mission in Lebanese airspace. The Syrian army has commented on the incident. According to a statement from Damascus "the aircraft of Israel's Air Force violated [Syria's] airspace near the border with Lebanon in the Baalbek area at 08:51 a.m. local time (05:51 GMT)" and therefore were attacked by the syrian air defense systems. The statement also claimed that "one of the planes was hit, which forced the aircraft to leave". The comment from Syria's armed forces comes hours after the IDF had announced that its jets had been targeted by an anti-aircraft missile during what it called "a routine flight over Lebanon." According to the IDF, the planes were not harmed in the shelling. Israel also stated having hit a Syrian air-defence battery 50 kilometres away from Damascus with 4 bombs, rendering it non-operational. Tel Aviv had qualified the incident as a "clear provocation", it also had confirmed that the Russian military had been notified of IDF's action beforehand as part of the coordination with Moscow. It is believed to be the first time since Syria's civil war began in 2011 that Israeli planes were targeted while in Lebanese airspace, according to the Israeli military spokesman, Jonathan Conricus. Later in the day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has commented in the situation, "We will continue to act in the region when it is required to ensure Israel's security. Our policy is clear: Those who wish to attack us will be attacked by us." Israel and Syria that have been formally in the state of war since the establishment of Israel in 1948 have exchanged numerous tit-for-tat attacks over cross-bording shelling. The latest incident took place in September when Israeli jets attacked the Syrian government forces in the Hama province, however, the IDF refused to comment on the incident. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian Army Surrounds Remaining Daesh Terrorists in Deir ez-Zor - Source Sputnik News 16:23 16.10.2017(updated 16:27 16.10.2017) The offensive of the Syrian army after the liberation of the largest Daesh stronghold in the Deir ez-Zor province continues. DAMASCUS (Sputnik) Syrian forces dislodged Daesh terrorists from the Syrian town of Al Hussainiyah north of Deir ez-Zor and continue to surround the remaining militants inside the city, a military source told Sputnik Monday. "The Syrian army continues its offensive on the eastern bank of the Euphrates river, during which it has restored control over Al Hussainiyah north of Deir ez-Zor. The remaining terrorists are thus being surrounded in the city's districts," the source said. According to the source, several dozen militants have been killed and Daesh armored vehicles and offroad vehicles loaded with heavy machine guns have been destroyed in the operation on Monday. The Russian General Staff said last week that the Syrian government offensive near Deir ez-Zor was developing successfully. According to the Russian military, the assault units of Gen. Hasan Sukhel with the support of Russian air forces had completely liberated the right bank of the Euphrates to the north-west and west of the city, establishing control over an area of 1,776 square miles. Following the historic lifting of a three-year Daesh siege of the city of Deir ez-Zor, the Syrian army continued its operation in the province in order to completely wipe terrorists out. Last week, the government forces have established control over the largest Daesh hotbed in the province located in the city of al-Mayadeen. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel Destroys Syrian Air Defence Battery After Alleged 'Shelling' Sputnik News 12:34 16.10.2017(updated 16:37 16.10.2017) The IDF has cited its right to "thwart hostilities towards Israeli population". The incident comes as the latest in a string of tit-for-tat attacks between Damascus and Tel Aviv that remain in a state of war for decades. The Israeli Air Force has announced that its military jets destroyed an anti-aircraft battery east of the Syrian capital of Damascus on October 16. The incident has not yet been confirmed by the Syrian government. According to the IDF, the "retaliatory" move came after Israeli jets had been targeted with an anti-aircraft missile launched from the Syrian territory. The military's spokesperson has said that no hits had been confirmed. The jets were carrying out a routine reconnaissance mission over Lebanon. While the IDF has blamed the Syrian government for the incident, it has yet again stated it "maintains its ability to thwart hostilities against Israeli civilians." According to one of the heads of the Israeli military's press service, Tel Aviv has also notified Russia that has a military presence Syria of the airstrike in real time. "The Russians were notified in real time, or maybe just before [the attack]," the military official said. However, the IDF said that it "has no intention to destabilize the situation." In September Israeli jets attacked the Syrian army in the Hama province, however the IDF refused to comment on the incident. Israel and Syria have exchanged numerous tit-for-tat attacks over the disputed area of Golan Hights, seized by Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967. The move has been repeatedly condemned by the international community. According to the UN resolution adopted in 1981, the Golan Heights were declared as illegally occupied by Israel. In 2008, the United Nations reitterated its calls for Tel Aviv to return the 'annexed territory' something that, according to the incumbent PM Benyamin Netanyahu, "Israel will never do". Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US-backed militants say have taken 'full control' of Raqqah Iran Press TV Tue Oct 17, 2017 09:08AM The so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a ragtag grouping of militants backed by the United States, says it has fully taken control of Syria's northern city of Raqqah from Takfiri Daesh terrorists. "Everything is finished in Raqqah, our forces have taken full control of Raqqah," SDF spokesman Talal Sello told AFP. "The military operations in Raqqah have finished, but there are clearing operations now under way to uncover any sleeper cells there might be and remove mines," he said, adding that "an official statement" would soon be put out. Raqqah was overrun by Daesh in March 2013 and was declared the terrorist group's "capital" the next year. The SDF, which does not coordinate with the Syrian government and military, announced an operation against the terrorists in the city some four months ago. Earlier, a deal was reached between the SDF and a US-led coalition on the one side and Daesh terrorists on the other to allow the terrorists out of the city and move them to the neighboring Dayr al-Zawr Province, where Syrian government forces are already fighting Daesh. The SDF claimed that, despite the deal, it was facing resistance from the terrorists. Situation in Dayr al-Zawr Separately, Syrian government forces have reportedly liberated more than 80 percent of the eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr from the control of the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group. The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday that 81 percent of Dayr al-Zawr is now under the control of Syrian forces. Daesh overran large parts of Dayr al-Zawr Province, including its many oil fields, in mid-2014 as it seized swathes of land in Syria and neighboring Iraq. By early 2015, the Takfiri terrorists were in control of some parts of the city of Dayr al-Zawr and had besieged the remaining parts. Syrian government forces and their allies last month broke that siege. The UK-based observatory said on Tuesday that Daesh had lost control of 10 strategic areas in eastern Syria in the past 48 hours. According to the report, the Syrian army and its allies, backed by Russian and Syrian aerial cover, gained control of the town of Albu Leil and Muhassan City and their surrounding areas in Day al-Zawr Province. The recapture means the area stretching between the cities of Dayr al-Zawr and Mayadin, which was liberated from Daesh on Saturday, is now under the control of the Syrian government. The Syrian military operation reportedly forced Daesh terrorists to withdraw from the western bank of the Euphrates to the river's eastern bank. An unspecified number of terrorists were also killed during the ground and aerial attacks on their positions on the western bank. The group earlier reported that Syrian forces had taken control of the villages of Zabari, Sa'lu, Toub, and al-Aliat, northwest of the region of Bouqras, which itself was retaken by the army on Monday. Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Military May Temporarily Stay in Syrian De-Escalation Zones - Lawmaker Sputnik News 16:06 17.10.2017(updated 16:42 17.10.2017) As the Russian military operation in Syria is "about to conclude," a senior lawmaker has suggested Moscow's presence in the country after active hostilities end. MOSCOW (Sputnik) Apart from Russia's military bases in Tartus and Hmeimim, Russian servicemen for some time may stay in Syrian de-escalation zones, member of Russia's upper house of parliament, the Federation Council, Viktor Ozerov, said Tuesday. The minister added that this would be possible "if a relevant proposal is received from the Syrian Republic and is considered by the Russian leadership and General Staff." The statement comes in light of the October 16 announcement by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who said that the Russian military campaign in Syria "was about to be completed." Currently, the Syrian army's operation to completely free Deir ez-Zor province from Daesh is underway. Last week marked the Syrian army's victory in al-Mayadeen, the largest terrorist stronghold in the province. According to the latest data released by the Russian Defense Ministry, 92 percent of Syria has been freed from terrorists. The information provided by the Russian Defense Ministry has been commented on by Chairman of the upper house's Committee on Defense and Security Viktor Bondarev. "The timeline for the completion of the operation in Syria is still open. At the moment, 92% of the country's territory has been liberated from terrorists, and if we do not slow down due to any objective circumstances, we can predict the complete elimination of IS terrorist formations in Syria by the end of 2017," Bondarev, who is a former commander of the Russian Aerospace Forces, told Sputnik. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US-backed Forces Say IS Ousted From Syria's Raqqa By VOA News October 17, 2017 U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces said Tuesday they seized the last remaining areas of Raqqa, Syria, from Islamic State militants and the American-led coalition fighting IS said the city was "on the verge of liberation." A spokesman for the SDF, which is made up of Kurdish and Arab militias, told reporters the fighting in Raqqa was over. SDF fighters stormed a stadium that had been the last Islamic State base in the city after capturing a hospital that also served as a command center. The offensive to oust the militants from Raqqa began in June, and was backed by airstrikes and other support from a U.S.-led coalition. Coalition spokesman Colonel Ryan Dillon said at a Pentagon briefing Tuesday that Raqqa was 90 percent under SDF control. "We are aware of the reports that ISIS has been defeated in Raqqa, however, clearance operations continue and we expect our Syrian Democratic Force partners to hit pockets of resistance as the final parts of the city is cleared," he said. He said there were perhaps "about 100" IS fighters left in the city. Raqqa was Islamic State's de facto capital, a place where it planned attacks abroad, celebrated its victories in Iraq and Syria and performed executions. Islamic State still controls areas around the eastern province of Deir el-Zour and further south in the Euphrates river valley. Humanitarian crisis Although the SDF has seized control of Raqqa from IS the humanitarian crisis in the area continues to worsen, according to the child advocacy group Save the Children. "The humanitarian crisis is greater than ever," group director Sonia Khush said in a statement. The group said some 270,000 people who have fled Raqqa are still in dire need of aid at camps that are "bursting at the seams." The charity said most displaced people are likely to remain for months or even years in the camps, where conditions are "miserable and families do not have enough food, water or medicine." In an interview with VOA's Kurdish Service, SDF spokesman Mustafa Bali called on global relief groups to provide assistance to the displaced people of Raqqa. "The situation of the displaced people from the city of Raqqa is very difficult and tragic and everyone should be aware of this situation, and we do not have the necessary capabilities because we are fighting and at the same time we live in a war zone area. The International organizations must provide assistance and consideration to the situation of the refugees in the city of Raqqa and the people," Bali said. The organization added that thousands of civilians were still being displaced in Deir el-Zour, where fighting continued Tuesday. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey to extend state of emergency by 3 more months for fifth time Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 06:34PM The Turkish government has endorsed a recommendation by the National Security Council (MGK) to extend the state of emergency that has been in place in the country since the failed coup in the summer of 2016. Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said Monday the state of emergency was extended for a fifth consecutive three-month period to allow the government to press ahead with its fight against terror organizations. The announcement came after a cabinet meeting in Ankara. Bozdag said the measure, which has sparked massive criticism both inside and outside Turkey, would guarantee "democracy, rule of law and rights and freedoms of our citizens." As part of the state of emergency, Turkey has arrested more than 50,000 people on suspicion of links to Fethulleah Gulen, the US-based cleric who has been blamed by Ankara as the mastermind of the July 15, 2016 coup attempt. Gulen has denied any involvement in the coup attempt and said the crackdown is part of a bigger plot to muzzle dissent. Since the launch of the crackdown, some 150,000 people have been fired or suspended from their jobs in the military, the judiciary and civil services. The government has also used post-coup suppression to launch a military crackdown on suspected Kurdish militants. Turkey imposed for the first time the state of emergency a week after the coup attempt. The state of emergency has been extended four times, in October 2016, in January, April and July this year. All the extensions have come in three-month intervals and the previous extension is set to expire on Thursday. The new extension should get the parliament approval before it can be implemented. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Over 1,200 detained in Turkey in last week for links to militant groups, says Interior Ministry Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 03:37PM Turkey's Interior Ministry says more than 1,200 people have been arrested over the past week on suspicion of links to terrorist groups. The ministry said Monday that the bulk of those arrested, a total of 947 people, had links to Fethullah Gueln, the US-based cleric whom Ankara blames for the July 2016 coup attempt. It said 205 suspects had ties to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which Turkey says has intensified its militant attacks against civilians and security forces over the past two years. The ministry added that 49 of those arrested were detained over links to Daesh, a Takfiri group mainly operating in neighboring Syria and Iraq which has claimed several high-profile attacks in Turkey over the past years. Nine suspects had links to "leftist terrorist groups," said the Interior Ministry, without elaborating. More than 50,000 people have been arrested in Turkey since a state of emergency was imposed after the failed coup. Turkish authorities have also suspended or sacked three times the number of those arrested. Gulen has denied any involvement in the coup, warning that the crackdown on his supporters is part of a broader plot by the Turkish government to silence dissent. Rights groups have also voiced similar concerns about the post-coup crackdown, while accusing Ankara of using the fight against the PKK to suppress its large population of Kurds, who mostly live along Turkey's eastern and southern borders. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Explosion in southeast Turkey kills two soldiers: Turkish broadcaster Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 02:47PM An improvised explosive device has gone off in the southeastern Turkish province of Hakkari, killing two military forces. Turkish-language CNN Turk television said the bomb was detonated on Monday, as a Turkish army truck was driving past it near the Iraqi border. No group or individual has so far claimed responsibility for the blast, but Ankara blames such assaults mostly on the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) or Daesh terrorists. Earlier this month, a bomb explosion in the same province left four soldiers dead and four others wounded. Over the past few years, Turkey has seen a rise in terror attacks targeting civilians and security forces. Turkey has banned the PKK, which has been calling for an autonomous Kurdish region since 1984, as a terrorist organization. Clashes between Turkish forces and the militants have left more than 40,000 people, mostly Kurds, dead over the past three decades. A shaky ceasefire between Ankara and the PKK that had stood since 2013 was declared null and void by the militants in 2015 in the wake of a large-scale Turkish military campaign against the group. Attacks on Turkish security forces have soared ever since. Turkish air force has been carrying out operations against the PKK positions in the country's troubled southeastern border region as well as in northern Iraq and neighboring Syria. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey expands deployment of troops to Syria's Idlib Iran Press TV Mon Oct 16, 2017 08:03AM Turkey's army is expanding its deployment in Syria's militant-held Idlib province despite the Damascus government's call for an "immediate and unconditional" pullout of Turkish troops, militants and witnesses say. They said Sunday Turkish bulldozers were working non-stop, digging fortifications and erecting observation posts. A new deployment of Turkish armored vehicles and personnel arrived along the Syrian border on Saturday. "Turkish forces are still in a state of advancing and expanding," said Mustafa al-Sejari, an official with the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA). Turkey deployed a convoy of around 30 military vehicles to Idlib province late on Thursday. The Turkish forces entered Syria near the Bab al-Hawa border crossing, and headed to Shaykh Barakat hilltop. The hilltop overlooks lands controlled by foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants as well as the Afrin area held by US-backed militants from the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG). Ibrahim al-Idlibi, an FSA military adviser, said nearly 200 troops are now stationed in areas that separate the territory under the control of Kurdish groups and opposition groups. Turkey says the deployment is part of the Astana agreements with Iran and Russia on the creation of de-escalation zones in Syria. Damascus on Saturday dismissed Turkey's attempts to link the move to the implementation of the agreement, terming it a "departure" from the deal. Idlib and swaths of land in Syria's northern and northwestern regions are largely controlled by members of Tahrir al-Sham militant group. Militant sources said the deployment comes following weeks of coordination between Tahrir al Sham and Turkish intelligence officers. FSA militant groups said the operation aims to push deeper into Idlib, with the expansion of supply lines and observation posts. "The Turks will be taking up positions 40 km deep inside Idlib as agreed," Idlibi said. Like in the past when terrorists have left the territories under their control without a fight with Turkish troops, the Takfiri militants would reportedly be retreating further south in a phased withdrawal. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said his country's military operations in Idlib are the follow-up of the Euphrates Shield operation in northern Syria, which Ankara launched in August last year without any authorization from Damascus. Ankara said back then that the main objectives behind the operation were clearing Turkey's southern border of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group and stopping the YPG from gaining more sway there. Ankara views the YPG as the Syrian branch of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) militant group, which has been fighting for an autonomous region inside Turkey since 1984. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address What Is Turkey Up to in Syria? By Jamie Dettmer October 16, 2017 Turkey is expanding its latest military intervention in Syria rapidly, sending more special forces and commandos into Idlib as part of a high-risk effort agreed to with Moscow and Tehran to establish a de-escalation zone in the northwest Syrian province that is mainly controlled by an al-Qaida offshoot. The intervention is the biggest incursion by the Turks in Syria since last year, when Turkish forces partnered with Free Syrian Army (FSA) militias, once aided by the U.S. but now dependent on Ankara, to clear Islamic State militants, as well as Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), from a stretch along the Turkish border in neighboring Aleppo province. Analysts say the most recent incursion has several aims, including encircling a Kurdish enclave Turkey does not want the Kurds to unite with other territory they control further east. It marks a deepening of efforts by Moscow, Ankara and Tehran to try to shape an end-game to the long-running Syria conflict, independent of Western priorities and participation. Turkish officials say the intervention in Idlib is part of a deal reached last month with Russia and Iran to reduce clashes between rebels based in Idlib and the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad. For the Turks, the halting of clashes between insurgents, including al-Qaida offshoot Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Syrian regime, reduces the chances of refugee flight towards the Turkish border. More than two million people are estimated to be living in Idlib province, and prior to the agreement to set up a de-escalation zone there, the province was being targeted by Russian and Syrian regime warplanes in a vicious air campaign that killed hundreds of civilians. Cengiz Tomar, an analyst with the Istanbul-based Marmara University, told a conference in Istanbul last week a key goal for Ankara is "to prevent a new wave of refugees from Syria." Damascus has raised objections to the Turkish intervention, denouncing the incursion as a violation of its sovereignty, and on Saturday demanding an "immediate and unconditional withdrawal" of Turkish troops deployed to Idlib alongside FSA fighters militiamen. But the condemnation from President Bashar al-Assad's government strikes many as a face-saving one. A senior Turkish lawmaker, who is a member of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling party, told the news outlet Al Jazeera the Syrian government's demand for Turkish troops to withdraw was for domestic Syrian public opinion and should not be taken seriously. "At the end of the day, foreign troops have entered the Syrian land and this has to be explained to the Syrian public one way or another," said lawmaker Kani Torun. No objections from Russia Russia, a key Assad ally, has raised no objections. On Friday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the de-escalation zones a total of four across the country "were conducted in the framework of the Astana talks with the participation of the three guarantor countries, Russia, Turkey and Iran." "Cooperation with Russia is one of the key elements of our foreign policy. We are in close coordination on Syria as well," Turkish Parliament spokesman Ismail Kahraman told reporters on Saturday in in St. Petersburg after a meeting with Russian officials. The Turkish intervention began overnight Thursday when four convoys of armored vehicles, including tanks, crossed into Idlib near Bab al-Hawa. On Saturday more convoys moved into position on the Turkish side ready to cross, say FSA commanders. FSA rebels said the intervention force will probably go up to 40 kilometers inside Idlib province, giving the Turks and their FSA allies control of a large pocket of Syrian territory stretching from Bab al-Hawa to Jarablus city and south to the town of al-Bab, northeast of Aleppo city. For Syrian Kurds aligned with the YPG, the Turkish incursion into Idlib represents a further threat to their interests and will block them from linking up territory they control along the Turkish border, some of it captured from FSA militias and jihadists. Afrin, a Kurdish enclave the Turks have periodically bombarded, is potentially in Turkish cross-hairs. Ankara has threatened to expel Kurdish forces based there. "We have no tolerance for the smallest wrong in Afrin," Erdogan told reporters Friday while en route to Ankara from a trip in the Balkans. But the intervention is high-risk for Turkey. There are many moving parts involved in what will be a phased operation, if the Turks are to be successful in pacifying Idlib. A key challenge will be constraining al-Qaida offshoot Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra. Aron Lund, a Syria specialist at the U.S.-based think tank The Century Foundation, has questioned how Turkey will implement de-escalation. "The obvious stumbling block is the fact that much of Idlib is under the control of Tahrir al-Sham, which is viewed internationally as a terrorist group," he said. So far, HTS has been withdrawing its fighters, allowing the Turks and their allies to move in. The al-Qaida offshoot also provided an escort for the initial Turkish convoys last week, helping the Turks complete an encirclement of Afrin. That has prompted Kurdish accusations of Ankara being in cahoots with the jihadist group. But it isn't clear HTS has much choice but to comply - to do otherwise would risk the Turks moving against them, according to Yezid Sayigh, an analyst at the Carnegie Middle East Center, a policy research group. He argued even before the Turkish incursion was launched that Ankara's moves to set up a 'de-escalation' zone could pave the way for an offensive against HTS. An added complication for Turkey may come from a breakaway from HTS, which has sworn allegiance to a son of Osama bin Laden, Hamza. According to the jihad and terrorism monitoring group the Middle East Media Research Institute, Ansar Al-Furqan Fi Bilad Al-Sham (the Supporters of the Qur'an in Syria) has sworn to target U.S. interests primarily but in statement released on October 10, the breakaway said it is also ready to fight the Turkish army. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU must give clear answer to Turkey regarding accession bid: Turkish president Iran Press TV Tue Oct 17, 2017 04:21PM Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the European Union (EU) must give a clear answer to Ankara regarding Turkey's bid to join the continental bloc, complaining that the EU has so far failed to fully fulfill its financial commitment to the Anatolian country according to the 2015 Turkey-EU refugee deal. The Turkish president made the comment in a joint press conference with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda in Poland's capital, Warsaw, on Tuesday during a one-day visit to the European country. "I would like to hear a clear declaration. If you want to accept Turkey, just do it. If you don't want to, just tell that," Erdogan said. Turkey has been attempting to become part of the EU for decades, but official accession negotiations began in 2005. The 12-year-long accession talks were effectively halted after Turkey began a massive crackdown on suspects allegedly involved in last year's mid-July failed coup against Erdogan. The EU reacted strongly to Ankara's purging of thousands of people from organizations and institutions over alleged links to the botched putsch. Furthermore, the EU heavyweight member Germany and some other European countries have been involved in diplomatic brawls with Turkey on several issues, including the country's human rights record, in recent months. The continental bloc says only 16 of the 35 chapters in the accession procedure have been opened for Ankara so far. "I always say this: 'Let us know if you are not going to accept us. You should not take up our time nor do we take up your time. Let's finalize this," Erdogan said, adding "They cannot make their decision on this and we are saying 'We will not be the one to leave the table.' We are waiting for their decision." Duda, for his part, said his respective country had supported Ankara's bid for the EU membership all the way long, stressing the significance of Turkey for Europe. "Poland has supported and supports today Turkey's efforts to join the European Union. Turkey is an especially important EU partner in the area of security," the Polish president said, expressing hope that Ankara and the bloc would continue on the "same path" leading to a "full membership" for Turkey. Elsewhere in his remarks, Erdogan also touched upon the issue of 2015 Turkey-EU refugee deal, according to which Ankara should curb the illegal flow of refugees to Europe in return for receiving financial aid, the acceleration of visa liberalization talks and progress in its EU membership negotiations. He criticized the EU for just sending "885 million of its promised 3 billion plus" to Ankara according to the deal, which came into effect in March last year. Turkey has been home to some 3 million Syrian refugees since 2011, when a foreign-backed militancy erupted in the Arab country. Erdogan said his country had so far spent "over $30 billion" on helping and sheltering the desperate people. The Turkish president's trip to Poland came two days ahead of an EU leaders' meeting in Brussels, which is due to focus on migration, defense digitalization and foreign affairs, including the bloc's ties with Turkey. Erdogan's visit to Poland was primarily made to boost trade relations between Ankara and Warsaw. According to Turkey's Economy Ministry, during the past 10 years, trade between the two sides has more than doubled, growing from $2.49 billion in 2006 to nearly $6 billion last year. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nearly dozen rights activists to go on trial in Turkey next week Iran Press TV Tue Oct 17, 2017 03:00PM Turkey will put eleven human rights activists, including two local heads of Amnesty International, on trial next week on charges of affiliation to a movement led by US-based opposition cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the Ankara government accuses of having masterminded the failed July 2016 coup attempt, and aiding Kurdish and left-wing militants. Turkey's official Anadolu news agency reported that the activists, among them Amnesty's Turkey director Idil Eser, German national Peter Steudtner and Swede Ali Gharavi, will stand trial at the main Istanbul court on October 25 after an indictment prepared by prosecutors was approved. Ten of the defendants were arrested during a raid against a workshop on digital security at a hotel on Buyukada Island near Istanbul in July. Steudtner and Gharavi were leading the workshop. Amnesty's Turkey chairman Taner Kilic, who was detained in June, will be tried alongside the ten. The suspects are accused of links to Gulen's movement, and providing assistance to Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and far-left Revolutionary People's Liberation Party-Front (DHKP-C) militants. Earlier this month, a Turkish prosecutor called for jail sentences of up to 15 years on terrorism charges for the activists. Steudtner's detention stoked tensions in Berlin and German officials said they were reviewing Turkey's applications to buy weaponry from the Western European country. German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel has described the terror charges against the rights activists as "incomprehensible." Chancellor Angela Merkel said last month that Turkey's 12-year bid for the European Union membership should be halted. Sweden has also summoned Turkey's Ambassador Omer Kaya Turkmen over the case of Gharavi, saying it was "worried" about the accusations against him. During the July 15 botched putsch last year, a faction of the Turkish military declared that it had seized control of the country and the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was no more in charge. The attempt was, however, suppressed a few hours later. Ankara has since accused Gulen of having orchestrated the coup. The opposition figure is also accused of being behind a long-running campaign to topple the government via infiltrating the country's institutions, particularly the army, police and the Judiciary. Additionally, the Ankara government has outlawed his movement, and has branded it as the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO). Gulen has denounced the "despicable putsch" and reiterated that he had no role in it. "Accusations against me related to the coup attempt are baseless and politically motivated slanders," he said. The 76-year-old cleric has also called on Ankara to end its "witch hunt" of his followers, a move he said is aimed at "weeding out anyone it deems disloyal to President Erdogan and his regime." Turkish officials have frequently called on their US counterparts to extradite Gulen, but their demands have not been taken heed of. Turkey, which remains in a state of emergency since the coup, has been engaged in suppressing the media and opposition groups suspected to have played a role in the failed coup. Tens of thousands of people have been arrested in Turkey on suspicion of having links to Gulen and the failed coup. More than 110,000 others, including military staff, civil servants and journalists have been sacked or suspended from work over the same accusations. The international community and rights groups have been highly critical of the Turkish president over the massive dismissals and the crackdown. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saakashvili leads mass anti-government rally in Ukrainian capital Iran Press TV Tue Oct 17, 2017 06:30PM Former Georgian president and Ukrainian governor Mikhail Saakashvili has led a mass anti-government rally in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev. Around three thousand people gathered outside main parliament building in Kiev on Tuesday, protesting against the government of President Petro Poroshenko and his policies. Some protesters chanted slogans against Poroshenko and called on him to resign in the face of growing economic woes in Ukraine. The number of protesters dwindled in the afternoon to a few hundred people. Some vowed to stay in tents overnight to push with their demands. Saakashvili, who has become a major anti-government figure on the back of growing differences with Poroshenko, said the president was responsible for persistent poverty in Ukraine. "I'm calling on the people of Kiev to join us and demand just one thing: that Poroshenko think about his resignation," he told the protesters. Saakashvili forced his way into Ukraine from neighboring Poland last month after Poroshenko stripped him of a Ukrainian nationality that had been given to Saakashvili after he was kicked out of office in Georgia. Upon arriving in Ukraine, Saakashvili vowed to stay firm in his fight against corruption in Ukraine. In his quest to topple Poroshenko, Ukraine's first president after the anti-Russia political overhaul of 2014, Saakashvili enjoys support of Yulia Tymoshenko, a former Ukrainian prime minister who is known for his anti-Russia bias. Other opposition groups have also declared their will to rally behind Saakashvili, also a 49-year-old pro-Western. "There can be no fight against corruption while Poroshenko is in power," he said during the Tuesday rally, adding, "It is time for them to hear us." Chanting "Shame!" and "Out with the gang!", the protesters also called on Poroshenko's government to strip lawmakers of immunity from criminal prosecution and establish an anti-corruption high court as demanded by international lenders. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minor Clashes Reported At Kyiv Anticorruption Demonstration Christopher Miller October 17, 2017 KYIV -- Protesters calling for Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to enact anticorruption reforms or step down scuffled with police in front of Ukraine's parliament at a rally organized by firebrand politician Mikheil Saakashvili and other opposition leaders. The mainly peaceful demonstration on October 17 briefly turned violent when a group of protesters first attempted to bring tents into the area in front of parliament. Security forces used tear gas as they tried to stop the crowd, which police estimated at about 4,500, according to state news agency Ukrinform, about one-third of what organizers had hoped for. Police said that four people were injured during street clashes, including a police officer who was hospitalized. Three injured civilians received medical treatment at the scene, a police spokesman said. He added that no one had been detained in connection with the clashes. By early evening, demonstrators had erected more than half a dozen camping-style tents in front of parliament and were setting up more. They also managed to bring metal shields into the security area, echoing measures taken by activists in the massive Euromaidan protests that pushed Russia-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych from power in February 2014. Mustafa Nayyem, a reformist lawmaker and Poroshenko critic whose November 2013 Facebook post is widely seen as a catalyst of the Euromaidan protests, said in a Facebook post that the tents would remain in front of parliament and that demonstrators would gather again there on October 19. Saakashvili, the former Georgian president and governor of Ukraine's Odesa region who has been stripped of both his Georgian and Ukrainian citizenship, had called for the demonstration last month after he returned to Ukraine in defiance of President Petro Poroshenko's government. That call was backed by most of Ukraine's opposition parties, which sent prominent lawmakers, veterans of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, and others critical of Poroshenko's ruling coalition. They are demanding the creation of anticorruption courts, the abolition of parliamentary immunity from prosecution, and an overhaul of Ukraine's electoral legislation. Protestors erected a wooden gate near the entry way police had set up to the area around parliament, with one side dedicated to those lawmakers who don't support the three demands, while the second side had a sign saying "I hear the people" for those who support the goals. "If Poroshenko again does not hear us and tries to buy some time as he has been doing all these three years [of his presidency], then I think we will have to move to another place on this square," Saakashvili told the crowd, suggesting he could seek to hold a bigger and more sustained protest. "I call on residents of Kyiv, after their work is over -- because we do not plan to leave this site -- to come here, to join us and...make Poroshenko think about leaving his post," he said. As lawmakers met inside the parliament building, Poroshenko appeared to address one of the demands in a Facebook post. He wrote that lawmakers' immunity has "turned into a guarantee [of] impunity" and proposed that the constitution be amended to abolish it. Tensions have been running high after Ukraine's SBU security agency warned on October 16 that "armed provocations" were planned for the protest, and that agents had thwarted an effort by two former activists of a group it called the Revolutionary Right Forces to acquire automatic weapons and rocket launchers, to be used during the rally. Saakashvili has pledged that the demonstration would be peaceful, but security was tight. The authorities set up cordons in front of parliament and closed off streets in the government quarter of central Kyiv, and demonstrators could only enter the rally area after passing through metal detectors. Valeriy Parkhomchuk, an activist from the Dnipro region who supports Saakashvili, held up two signs -- one showing an image of Poroshenko in crosshairs and another with the president behind bars. He said Poroshenko has "betrayed the Ukrainian idea." "He is corrupt and belongs in prison," Parkhomchuk said, adding that he believes a "third Maidan" -- meaning another change of power -- is inevitable. "There will be blood on the streets again, 100 percent," he said. Saakashvili was previously an ally of Poroshenko, who appointed him governor of Odesa in 2015. He resigned in November 2016, complaining of rampant corruption and saying reform efforts were being blocked, and has since turned his outspoken rhetoric against Poroshenko and his allies. Poroshenko stripped Saakashvili of Ukrainian citizenship in July, when he was outside the country. He lost his Georgian citizenship in 2015, and authorities in Tbilisi have begun criminal proceedings against him. Saakashvili forced his way back into Ukraine on September 10, defying border guards and vowing to reenter politics. With reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-rally-saakashvili- tight-security-poroshenko/28799423.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 Introduction The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL are finally in our office and we've already spent some time getting acquainted with them. We've also been conducting our in-house review of both devices, but we're here to give you a sneak peek at Google's new Pixel devices as well as some general information surrounding the purebreds. One thing that might need clarification is that both Pixel 2 phones support certain networks with a built-in eSIM. This does not mean the phones don't come with a standard nanoSIM slot. In fact, at this point Google's Project Fi network in the United States is the only network that will provide service using the phone's built-in eSIM. Now that that's out of the way, if you recall last year, Google priced the Pixel and Pixel XL exactly like the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus in the US. This time, however, Google has undercut the iPhone 8's $699 tag with the Google Pixel 2's $649 (same as the original Pixel's launch price) while aiming higher than the iPhone 8 Plus' $799 price with the Google Pixel 2 XL, which is priced at $849. That means that the premium for the higher res, taller, and larger display, larger battery is $200. Considering that not even the iPhone 8 Plus is going for that much, Google is very confident that its new devices are ready to fight with the best out there. Verizon is still the "exclusive" carrier of the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL in the US, but T-Mobile has already offered to credit Pixel 2 Buyers up to $325 via statement credits like it did with the Pixel last year. FYI, the phone will be sold unlocked in the US for all carriers. But now, let's take a closer look at the Google Pixel 2 XL. We're going to compare it to a few other devices that are already on the market. Last month, Motorola revealed that the Moto X4 will be launched in India on October 3. That, however, didn't happen for whatever reasons. But now, the company has confirmed that the phone will land in the country next month. The company took to Twitter to announce the new launch date - November 13. We agree! The #MotoX4 will be unveiled on the 13th of November. Stay tuned for all details! Motorola India (@motorolaindia) October 16, 2017 The handset was officially unveiled back in August during this year's IFA conference in Berlin. Europe was the first region to get it. There's currently no information on what price tag the phone will carry in India. Source Check your Multi-Match ticket. You could be $765,000 richer A Multi-Match lottery ticket worth $765,000 in the Nov. 14 drawing was sold at a bar near Hagerstown, the Maryland Lottery said. T o celebrate 30 years in the UK this month, Swedish furniture giant IKEA has revealed the top interiors trends most likely to be in our homes in the next three decades. So, what can we expect to be showcasing in our homes in 2047? Light switches will be a thing of the past as homeowners opt for an entire wall of smart lighting that will follow you as you move across the room. And forget waiting for 12-14 weeks for your new chairs to be delivered, as all of our furniture will be 3D-printed. Sustainable living will be crucial, with household plants and even our kitchen herbs grown hydroponically, a method of growing plants which adds nutrients but without soil. Finally, there will be no reason to scramble for your phone in the morning as high-tech smart mirrors will be able to offer both the time and weather - as well as your reflection. The trend of sustainable living shows no sign of slowing down Until October 21, Ikea has taken over a townhouse to show Londoners the future of interior design - and take a look back to the past 30 years. Head to 19 Greek Street by day to see four floors transformed into era-defining living rooms, giving visitors a peak into bygone years alongside what to expect in the future. As night falls each room turns into house party central with music, food and drinks relating to the relevant decade. Head to the Eighties for deep navy walls and red furniture with the Nineties offering a fresher palette of white and taupe. Shiny acrylic furniture and clashing walls bring the Noughties to life. L iving in the Square Mile, next to gleaming office towers and Wren spires, used to boil down to a Barbican apartment or a crash pad conversion in an outdated commercial building. Now a fresh wave of development is bringing much more variety and wow-factor main homes for people who want to put down roots in the area. The Denizen is a new scheme of 99 apartments in Golden Lane, which also boasts a prized listed council estate dating back to the Fifties, a forerunner of the Barbican. Prices start at 695,000. Call Taylor Wimpey on 020 3866 0901. Tight supply means City of London homes normally make sound investments. Yet values are still quite a bit lower than the best addresses in Westminster borough, Kensington or Chelsea. Local planners continue to push for new high-rise office buildings to halt the defection to Canary Wharf, but they are also encouraging more homes outside the core banking zone, towards Spitalfields in the east and Chancery Lane in the west. Pinks Mews is a scheme of 35 handsome apartments behind retained Victorian facades lining either side of a hidden cobbled mews in Holborn. The gated cul-de-sac is a conservation area in its own right. Prices from 995,000. Call CBRE on 020 7240 2255. O ver a 42-year career in transport that includes more than nine years as Transport for London Commissioner, Sir Peter Hendy has never lost his enthusiasm for trains and buses. He doesnt see it ever happening. He has been chairman of Network Rail since 2015 and also, since July, chairman of the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), which is responsible for transforming the 560-acre former Olympic Park into its website proclaims a dynamic heart for east London. This includes 24,000 new homes by 2031, plus a whole new cultural quarter with two university campuses. Theres already the stadium, West Ham United FCs new home, and busy Westfield Stratford City shopping destination. I knew that area before the Olympics. We parked loads of buses where the stadium is now. It was a dump. Hendy is a doer who thrives on huge projects: Part of my job is to make sure that the chief executive makes it all happen. Although he answers to bigwigs at Network Rail to the Secretary of State for Transport, and at the LLDC to London Mayor Sadiq Khan Hendy is famous for straight talking and even a few unrepentant expletives. It makes him both likeable and believable. Despite being honoured with a CBE in 2006 for keeping London running after the 2005 bombings, and a knighthood in 2013 for keeping London running during the Olympics, he comes over as a regular bloke. As he sits on a bench in bustling Waterloo station, no one has the faintest idea who the man in the rumpled black linen jacket is. A few times a year, he drives his own beloved Sixties Routemaster bus around London, taking architects, developers and planners on tours of new and ongoing developments, so they can exchange ideas. A large photo of the gleaming bus hangs in his office, curiously like a farmers picture of a prize bull, while behind his seat stands a vast Fifties framed poster of a steam engine. Born in Hayes, Middlesex, 64 years ago, raised in Ealing, he went to Latymer Upper School on a council scholarship, before a degree in economics and geography at Leeds, then into what was London Transport, as a graduate trainee. Ive always been endlessly fascinated by transport and loved travelling by train and bus. I cant believe that everyone isnt the same. I ran TfL under two mayors, and what I learnt about transport is that whats important is not how it works, but what it does. The reason people invest in it is because it creates economic growth, jobs, and homes. Network Rails domain is immense. It owns 20,000 miles of track, 40,000 bridges and all the stations, and it runs all Londons major hubs. Last year, we made 1.65 billion journeys on the network. Now, the railway is in the thick of the most ambitious expansion and development programme since the Victorian era, a new golden age. Passenger numbers have doubled in the past 20 years, Hendy says, and our challenge is to keep capacity growing. Most people are travelling to and from work, or for business. You mustnt get to the stage where people cant get on, or cant get to work. It is the biggest programme of investment since nationalisation in 1948. For example, in the next 12-18 months on Thameslink, Londoners will see 24 trains an hour between Kings Cross and Blackfriars. In that central section theyll be automatically driven, longer trains. Thameslink goes up to Bedford and Cambridge and Kings Lynn; out to the East Coast main line, and south to Gatwick, Brighton and Eastbourne. This will affect a significant number of people. The trains wont be faster, but because there are more of them with greater capacity, waiting and travel times will reduce. At Waterloo, the ongoing programme involves making longer platforms and a new fleet of trains that will improve capacity 30 per cent, while the new Intercities to Bristol and Cardiff start running next Monday. In the next 18 months, were bringing a whole new level of connectivity to London, which will touch at least half of Londoners rail journeys Croydon, Romford, Ilford, Slough, Elephant and Castle will all benefit. Even Crossrail is in the mix, as some of its tracks are owned by Network Rail. It will transform east-west travel. When Crossrail was authorised in 2007 I was there. So I hope I get invited to the opening, Hendy smiles. London Bridge is a really good example of what large investment does. It was bombed in the Second World War, and ever since I was a boy, it was a wreck.& The front was corrugated iron; the Tooley Street frontage was hideous; but the new Tooley Street frontage [designed by international architecture firm Grimshaw] is on the way, and the completed undercroft has great shops. High street shops are struggling, but its little known that station shopping is booming. We work hard at pulling in the right retailers for destination stations, and the profit is ploughed straight back in. One of the railways jobs is to get people to London so they can create wealth. And better supply and better connectivity does good things to the housing market. 1bn revamp: London Bridge is being turned into a 'destination station' / Network Rail Network Rail has an ambitious target of building 12,000 homes on its land by 2020, and in London, a just-announced package of small plots should, together, provide 300 homes. Were making a concerted effort to release our land for homes, making it easier for developers to build on and around railway land. All these developments will comply with the Mayors London Plan in terms of affordable housing. Network Rail has four objectives set out by government: to look after passengers and freight; to give value; regeneration, and housing. On that front, were looking at a big scheme with Capco at Clapham Junction. Anyone who uses it knows it needs a complete rebuild, and were looking at putting housing on a deck right over the top of it. We havent got the money to do that on our own, and these things take years but if you dont start them, they will never happen. Most recently, he was based in Dubai as Vice President of Operations for the Middle East, where he was responsible for over 70 hotels across seven countries. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has named IHG veteran Fergus Stewart to the Europe region as Vice President, Luxury Operations. Fergus will be responsible for operations across IHG's luxury brands in Europe. The move reflects IHG's thriving luxury business with the continuing growth of both InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. Based in IHG's Headquarters in Denham, Buckinghamshire, he will report to Stephen McCall, Chief Operating Officer for the region, and form part of the Europe Operations Leadership Team. Stewart has enjoyed a career spanning almost ten years with IHG, having joined in 2008 as General Manager, ANA InterContinental Tokyo. He then became Director of Operations, Thailand and Indochina, before returning to Japan as CEO of the IHG/ANA joint venture and Head of Japan. Most recently, he was based in Dubai as Vice President of Operations for the Middle East, where he was responsible for over 70 hotels across seven countries. Starting his career in London, he has held hotel roles in locations such as Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Spain and the UK, working for several luxury hotel brands. Stephen McCall commented: "I am so pleased to welcome Fergus to Europe at such a pivotal time for our InterContinental and Kimpton brands. As we enter in to new and emerging markets with the InterContinental brand and continue to expand Kimpton within Europe, I am confident Fergus is the right person to continue the operational excellence of both brands across the region." Fergus Stewart, commented: "InterContinental Hotels & Resorts is where I started my IHG career and I am excited to be able to lead the InterContinental and Kimpton brands at such a dynamic time. With the InterContinental brand continuing to pioneer in luxury travel in emerging destinations such as Ljubljana, the innovations we are leading within the Restaurant & Bar space within both brands, and the growth of Kimpton across the region, there has never been a better time for a new challenge." Raffles Europejski Warsaw Hotel to Open Early 2018 The 106 guest rooms and suites will be the largest in the city yet, with the Raffles Suite measuring 3,150 sq. ft. Early 2018, Raffles Europejski Warsaw will open its doors to welcome a new chapter in the property's rich history spanning 160 years. Situated along the Royal Route next to the Presidential Palace in Old Town, the historic building has been an icon since its inception. Through its thoughtful restoration project, rich blend of Polish heritage, skilled local craftsmanship and contemporary art on display, the Raffles Europejski Warsaw reflects the narrative of the nation's history. The property will feature 106 elegant suites featuring carefully curated Polish art by Anda Rottenberg and Barbara Piwowarska; a restaurant showcasing Poland's rich produce and cuisine; a bar and cigar lounge; a patisserie that evokes the hotel's fascinating story; as well as a spa featuring six treatment rooms. Built by Enrico Marconi in 1857, the hotel quickly became enshrined in history, with its glamorous New Year's Eve ball parties, immortalized in the Polish 19th century classic, "The Doll" by Bolesaw Prus. In the 1880's, Polish artists such as Jozef Chemonski and Stanisaw Witkiewicz had their studios at the hotel and its patisserie was a well-known retreat for writers and poets. Chris Cahill, CEO AccorHotels Luxury Brands says: "We are delighted to be opening the iconic Raffles Europejski Warsaw, such a landmark in the city of Warsaw, to which we will bring the legendary Raffles service, known for its benchmark standard across the globe, as well as a series of gastronomic delights, stunning ballroom and conference facilities, and a beautiful spa. The Raffles Europejski Warsaw will offer the visitor bespoke luxury and beautiful art-filled interiors, building on the past and preserving for the future as it opens for its next exciting chapter in the very heart of Warsaw." Advertisement Restored to its rightful pre-war owners in 2005, a majority stake was later taken in the hotel by Vera Michalski-Hoffmann, a publisher and patron of the arts. The new owner shared a vision with the founders' descendants to resurrect the property and give the Polish people a hotel as luxurious as it was in the 19th century while also showcasing the best of modern and contemporary Polish art. Julien Barbotin-Larrieu, representing the owning company, H.E.S.A., explained the choice of Raffles to manage the property: "With Raffles at the helm of the hotel, a brand synonymous with heritage and luxury, whose own illustrious history, began just thirty years after the Europejski's with the iconic Raffles Singapore, we feel confident about bringing a new level of luxury to Warsaw; one that is as much about the cultural experience as the comfort. Our aim is to provide a real sense of place, allowing guests to understand the soul of Poland by immersing themselves in the art, the gastronomy and the history which they will be surrounded with, on a level as yet unsurpassed in the capital." The 106 guest rooms and suites will be the largest in the city yet, with the Raffles Suite measuring 3,150 sq. ft. Interior design comes courtesy of Warsaw-based and internationally-acclaimed WWAA Architecture in partnership with the National Opera House stage designer, Boris Kudlicka and APA Wojciechowski. Known for their interdisciplinary and storytelling approach to their projects, WWAA was a perfect match for the Raffles Europejski Warsaw restoration project as they are able to revive the hotel's grand history in a manner that will speak to today's luxury traveler. Drawing on classic Polish design elements, wood floors come in blackened oak or in traditional marquetry, glossy veneer clad cupboard doors and brass add turn-of-the century elegance. Furniture and lighting are mostly bespoke and commissioned from local craftsmen and designers. Throughout the hotel guests will see references of Warsaw, whether in the skyline of the city etched into the marble of the bathrooms or the River Vistula which cuts through it, represented in an art installation behind the reception desk. Previous eras of the hotel have not been forgotten with original cornicing and ceiling roses immaculately restored in the restaurant and spa, complete with six treatment rooms, and the pool, housing a mosaic from the hotel's 1960's incarnation. Spanish designers Lazaro Rosa Violan are spearheading the design of the Signature restaurant which will flow out onto the terrace of the magnificent Pisudski Square, with the eternal flame of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at its far side. Interiors will be a bold mix of blue and white referencing Polish pottery traditions. There will also be a Long Bar and a Humidor, complete with a patisserie to serve the much loved Polish cakes and pastries. Born in Germany and brought up in Paris, General Manager of Raffles Europejski Warsaw, Thomas Guss, the third generation of hoteliers in his family, brings with him an experience in 5* star hotels that stretches from mainland China to Berlin. Sheraton Grand Lahore will feature 168 well-appointed guestrooms and comprise four food and beverage outlets, including a specialty restaurant. The hotel will also offer a fitness center with a swimming pool, a signature spa and ultra-modern meeting facilities including a 500 sqm ballroom. Marriott International, Inc. announced an agreement with Imperium Hospitality to open a Sheraton Grand Hotel in Lahore marking the company's first hotel in Pakistan's key gateway city. Scheduled to open in 2021, the hotel will carry the Sheraton Grand designation which represents the premier tier of Sheraton hotels recognised for their enticing destinations, distinguished designs and excellence in service and guest experiences. "Sheraton continues to maintain its first mover advantage through strategic pipeline development and growth plans and we are now excited to introduce the brand in Lahore," said Samir Baidas, Chief Development Officer, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. "There is a demand for international hospitality brands in the city and with its innovative guest experience and differentiating design, Sheraton will meet the needs of business and leisure travellers, as well as local residents in Lahore." The capital of the Pakistani province of Punjab, Lahore's strategic location in the heart of the country is a key trade route for the country. The city is also home to the recently renovated Allama Iqbal International Airport one of the country's largest and busiest airports. Qasim Jafri, CEO of Imperium Hospitality, commented: "With the signing of Sheraton Grand Lahore, we intend to surpass international benchmarks, not match them. Imperium Hospitality is re-engineering premium hospitality and the luxury living landscape of Pakistan. We strongly believe that with our quest for excellence, combined with cutting edge skills in planning, construction, and operations, we will deliver unparalleled architectural design with a stunning hospitality experience." Sheraton Grand Lahore will feature 168 well-appointed guestrooms and comprise four food and beverage outlets, including a specialty restaurant. The hotel will also offer a fitness center with a swimming pool, a signature spa and ultra-modern meeting facilities including a 500 sqm ballroom. The hotel will be designed by Eco.id Architects who have worked on several Marriott International properties including, W Maldives, Sheraton Kathmandu Hotel and the Four Points by Sheraton Bintan. Marriott International currently operates two hotels and over 500 rooms in Pakistan Islamabad Marriott Hotel and Karachi Marriott Hotel. Business Travel in China Continues to Grow CITS American Express Global Business Travel 2017 China Business Travel Barometer indicates that Belt and Road opportunities are considered a key factor in rising business travel budgets The CITS American Express Global Business Travel 2017 China Business Travel Survey (the Barometer) has revealed that 31% of Chinese companies expect travel budgets to rise over the next twelve months. The figure reflects increasing business confidence, as only 17% of respondents predicted budget increases when asked the same question last year. Forty percent of organizations have reported plans to expand budgets because of opportunities presented by the Belt and Road initiative. These results were released during the thirteenth annual China Business Travel Forum (CBTF), held in Shanghai today. Last year, China became the country with the largest business travel expenditure in the world, overtaking the United States*. Despite 75% of China's business travel spend being domestic**, its increasingly outward looking approach to global commerce is likely to create opportunities for international business travel in future. China's Belt and Road Initiative*** is one such example of a major investment project that could benefit Chinese organizations with an international travel program (43% of companies), as well as those with a regional program (21% of companies). "The results of this year's China Business Travel Barometer are hugely positive, and a strong indication of the opportunities Chinese organizations are recognizing both domestically but also in the global economy," said Kevin Tan, Vice President of CITS American Express Global Business Travel. "While our research indicates an intent to increase business travel budgets over the next year, when we look deeper we find that the intention to increase spending also comes with some strategic reallocation of expenditure. This is particularly noticeable when considering the number of organizations that have reported plans to reduce spend on internal meetings. It is apparent that businesses continue to acknowledge the importance of client-facing travel." Financial returns from business travel are clear and measurable This year's Barometer highlighted the importance of business travel as a key driver of revenue for many Chinese organizations, with 90% reporting that increased client-facing travel would likely increase revenue. Additionally, more than half of the respondents (53%) believe an increase in client-related travel would improve overall revenue by 10-20%. Developing new business relationships, and maintaining existing clients were also listed as the top two reasons for business travel. Beyond simply acknowledging the value of business travel to overall company bottom line, most of Chinese organizations also reported having systems in place to measure the return on investment (ROI) of business travel. Forty one percent of organizations currently track the level of business travel expenditure required to sign a new business deal on a monthly basis. More than half of companies also claimed to measure business travel ROI by linking business travel spend to company revenue, reviewing T&E programs with C-level management, regularly aligning travel program with business strategy, and linking business travel spend to converting prospects or maintaining client relationships. Interestingly, almost half of the respondents (46%) in this year's Barometer say their company could save 10-20% of their total travel budget from better budget management. Twenty percent of larger companies also stated they are likely to replace close to half of all internal meetings with video or teleconferencing within the next year. In addition to saving money from better budget management, many companies also identified indirect costs and opportunity costs as key areas of focus. For example, 40% of companies reported requiring pre-trip approvals by manual paper or email, which can lead to inefficiencies compared with automated processes. "The research tells us Chinese companies believe there are savings to be identified within their current travel budgets, and that many intend to put measures in place to realize some of these savings in the next year. When we consider the belief among many organizations that client-facing business travel drives revenue growth, it will be interesting to see whether companies look to strategically reallocate their business travel savings to other areas of the travel program," said Mr. Tan. Organizational goals must be balanced with traveler experience concerns The voice of the traveler seems to be growing in importance again this year, with the Barometer revealing Chinese organizations currently view their comfort and wellbeing as being equally important to cost, while safety considerations are most important. Inflexible travel policies (30%) and complex reimbursement processes (23%) were reported as the top two complaints for business travelers. With 30% of companies reporting travel policy compliance below 75%, steps which improve overall traveler experience could increase compliance and reduce overall costs. "Companies that balance traveler concerns with appropriate cost saving measures are the most likely to see a significant financial benefit. The Barometer's findings indicate that the strictest cost-savings measures, such as an inflexible travel policy, are likely to result in false-savings due to lower policy compliance," said Mr. Tan. New technologies must be balanced with operational realities Many Chinese organizations (58%) have identified new technology and tools as a means for creating cost savings in their travel budgets. Other cost saving strategies identified by Chinese companies included streamlining costs through enhanced negotiations with suppliers (60%), and improving communication of travel policy (59%). Savings through enhanced negotiations with suppliers was considered a greater priority among smaller companies (70%) than larger companies (43%), indicating they could likely benefit from a travel management company negotiating on their behalf. "Emerging technologies are enabling companies to reconsider their approaches to business travel. While tools such as videoconferencing have created new opportunities, this hasn't replaced the value of face-to-face meetings. Every business is different and companies need to ensure their travel program is tailored to a company's specific needs," said Mr. Tan. The Barometer is an annual report detailing the status of, as well as forecasts for, China business travel. The 2017 Barometer surveyed executives from 150 companies in China, ranging from small enterprises with 200 employees to large companies with well above 1,000 staff. These organizations are in major economic areas, such as Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, as well as tier two and tier three cities. * According to the GBTA BTI Outlook China 2016 H1, a report by the GBTA Foundation. ** Announced in 2013, The Belt and Road Initiative is a Chinese-led development strategy designed to strengthen economic relations across East Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Through an investment projected to surpass US$1 trillion, the plan will deliver infrastructure such as roads, railways, telecommunications, energy pipelines, and ports, to over 60 countries. *** Includes Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau. SOURCE CITS American Express Global Business Travel For years now, Jordan Brand has released at least one Air Jordan 11 in December, as part of their annual Holiday Collection, and this year will be no different. In fact, Jordan Brand has already confirmed that two brand new Air Jordan 11s will be releasing before the year is over. But, thats not all. A womens exclusive Heiress Air Jordan 11 is also on tap for next month rumors suggest the kicks will be releasing on Black Friday in sizes ranging up to a 9.5. The black-based 11s, which will retail for $220, feature gold branding as well as stingray accents in place of the traditional patent leather. Official images of the Heiress Air Jordan 11s still have not surfaced but you can check out the first look below. In addition to the newly unveiled Heiress Air Jordan 11, Jordan Brand will also be releasing a UNC-inspired Win Like 82 11 and another Win Like 96 colorway which features an all-red build. The Win Like 82 joint will be releasing on November 11th, the Bulls-inspired pair is scheduled to drop on December 9th. Both of those kicks will be available in full family sizes. Still not satisfied? Jordan Brand will also be releasing a premium Bordeaux Air Jordan 5 and a Dark Grey Air Jordan 12 which swaps the leather upper for suede and nods to the original Taxi colorway by featuring gold lace eyelets. On December 21st, the black and green Altitude Air Jordan 13 will 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 Collection is the Golden Harvest and Elemental Gold lineup which includes Wheat renditions of the Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 6 and Air Jordan 13. Each of these kicks feature soft suede materials and monochromatic color schemes. Take a look at the 2017 Holiday Collection in the link below. AJ11 North Carolina has made many contributions to hip-hop: Petey Pablo, 9th wonder, Lil Brother and more. Still, it seems that not too many artists from North Carolina have been able to blaze a trail for the Tarheel state like J. Cole. The Fayetteville native and leader of Dreamville records has managed to use his success to begin building a very solid roster of talented artists. Despite not having a massive roster and a ton of mainstream visibility, Dreamville is stocked with some very lyrically-inclined MCs: Cozz, Bas, J.I.D., Earthgang and Dreamvilles newest signee, North Carolinas very own, Lute. Pair that with the vocal brilliance of Ari Lennox, and youve got a rappers rapper artist roster (get it?). Lute, born Luther Nicholson, from West Charlotte, first gained minor attention online in 2012, when he released his mixtape West 1996. The tape featured tracks that were stocked with a soulful sound, and cover art reminiscent of Nas Illmatic album a clear nod to his old school style and aesthetic. Thanks to this tape, Lute was featured on different platforms in his hometown, and began gaining a substantial following locally, extending to social media. Still, it was just a small success. Lute was about to have a daughter, he was in a tough spot financially and unfortunately music, at the time, wasnt paying the bills. Prioritizing his growing family and his need to survive, Lute began considering retirement. That was, until he received a late-night phone call from his fellow North Carolinian, J. Cole. Things turned around after the two spoke. Lute went on to be featured on Revenge of the Dreamers project, the track Still Slummin, which can also be found on Lutes debut album, West 1996 Pt. 2. Lute stopped by the HNHH office in NYC to talk about the new album, some of the experiences that led him to this point, his middle-of-the-night phone conversation with J. Cole and more. *** Prior to your success in music you went through a phase that a lot of artists go through, when it comes to zeroing in on an identity and name. You mentioned in your Still Slummin documentary that you went by Lil Ace, but could you speak on your process of sifting through names. Howd you land at Lute? Umm Lil Ace was like the name I went with the longest. There was another name but I honestly cant even remember any other names. But yeah Lil Ace was from 7th grade until 11th grade when I dropped out of school. But why Lil Ace? At the time I was really into graffiti, and I was drawn to spades and cards and all that stuff. So at the time, I went with Lil Ace and it worked. I got to Lute because going through high school I was really trying to figure out who I was and at one point in time I wasnt hood enough for the kids in the hood, but I was too hood for the kids in the suburbs when we moved to the suburbs. So it was all about trying to find out who I was and it wasnt until I got expelled and had to drop out of school where I realized, like, being myself was most important like theres nothing wrong with being who I was. If you look back at my high school and middle school that shit just looks like a costume wardrobe, trying to fit in with all these different crowds of people. But after high school, I was like you know what, I honestly dont care what people think of me. You know? People been calling me Lute for the longest so Im just gonna roll with Lute. How does being from West Charlotte influence your writing? Man, its influenced me a lot. I live in a historically black neighbourhood and I seen the rises of the black community and I seen the downfall of the black community as well. And as many downfalls, as weve seen, my mom always made sure that we were good and we had everything we needed. You know? And even seeing my brother sacrifice the things he did with going into the military and making sure when he got back he was able to move us into the suburbs. He bought a house for my mom. Then we moved to the suburbs. Whats Forever FC? Forever FC was a group that I got into after high school with my [friend] Jimmy Kelso, High Im Rye. High Im Rye is actually on the new project too. But yeah that was a group we started in 2012. For people who dont know that much about you, they may think your music career started with West 1996. But tell me about Road to South West Blvd. What was that project all about? That was my first. Everyone has put out a project or mixtape and my boy was like, yo you gotta to put out a project and get some music together. And I put out that project and to be honest that project wasnt me at all. You know? It was me talking about things on the surface. Im a very reserved person so at that time I didnt know how to talk about things I was going through or even the things around me at the time. So I was just rapping like the people I heard on the radio and talking about shit I wasnt even going through. So I dropped it and it did nothing. Nothing at all. So I realized that maybe this [rapping] wasnt for me. So I tucked it away. Then with West 1996, I was like let me try this again but let me be more about myself. Were they any projects before that? Nah. That was my very first one. That was like 2010. You started gaining some momentum with your West 1996 mixtape that dropped in 2012. What happened between 2012 and 2015? Music wasnt my priority. Umm, I had a daughter on the way, 2014, hell I was 2-3 months behind on rent and was about to move back in with my moms. I wasnt even thinking about stepping back in the studio. Because now here I am trying to figure out how Im going to put food in my daughters mouth, where are we going to be living, whats my living situation, do I have a roof over my head? I have a whole human being on the way and I couldnt even take care of my damn self so it was really trying to figure what was next for me. I remember that there were nights I was sitting there, daughters sleeping, and I dont even know what Im doing tomorrow. I aint got no job. No, nothing. I dont know where this money is coming from. So music at that time was at a standstill. But like I said I was in Forever FC, and it wasnt until they did a spread on us in Charlotte, and one of the interviewers asked my boy Rye, Whats up with Lute? Whens the next time hes going to make music again? And Rye said, I dont know but if I had a daughter Id have a lot to write about. When I read that I was like, Damn, you know what, hes absolutely right. That made me think. I was so focused on things that Im going through that I didnt realize that I have a hell of a story to tell and new content. So I said Im going to try this one more time but that was going to be my last project. Part 2 was going to be my last project. Listening to some of your older tracks, even the ones you did with Forever FC. I get a Joey/Pro-Era-ish. Do you think you guys are on similar paths as far as reviving that classic hip-hop sound? Its crazy because there was a lot of comparison between Forever FC and Pro Era. Even when Joey Bada$$ dropped 1999, we were months apart from dropping. I dropped West 1996 in February and he dropped 1999 a couple months later. Yeah, we used to get a lot of comparisons. I do see us going down similar paths, but Joey Bada$$ is on a whole other playing field now. Most notable artists from NC are probably 9th Wonder, Cole and Petey Pablo. Youre a testament that NC clearly has more to offer to hip-hop. Would you say NC is underrated when it comes to hip-hop talent? Why or why not? Very much so. Very underrated! We have the talent we have the music but the thing about North Carolina is we have yet to have the platform to do so. And I think that thats what J. Cole, and even myself when I get to a level, want to do; is to bring the culture together and bring the people together to actually showcase what we have in North Carolina because theres a lot of talent. The crazy thing is, theres so many genres and so much talent musically in North Carolina its like we have so many genres talking about the same content. Thats what I feel like makes it even greater. Its not just hip-hop or alternative rock, or whatever the case may be, were all talking about the same environment in so many different ways. Its like a melting pot. Noticing the similarities in the cover art. Whats the relationship or connection between Nas Illmatic and your West 1996 Pt. 1 & 2? Me and my boy, we felt as if West 1996 Pt. 1 was going to be our hoods Illmatic. And at the same time, we wanted to pick something that was going to get people to talk. We wanted to create a conversation. It was like, whats more impactful than the Illmatic cover? So we decided that this tape is going to be our hoods Illmatic, and it did just that. When it dropped on 2DopeBoyz, we had people saying who the hell does this guy think he is? BUT they clicked on it and the music was actually fire. So you might not agree with the cover but when you play youre going to be like you know what? I cant even knock this. We had people that loved it and we had people that hated it, but at the same time everyone genuinely liked the music. Honestly, I didnt expect it because like I said I dropped the first project Roads and it did nothing at all. So we were doing it again because we loved music even though we werent taking it seriously at the time. It wasnt until West 1996 dropped that we were like, maybe we have something, maybe we need to take this a little more serious. For me, it was all I had. You know all my friends were off in college and all that other stuff so once I saw that, I thought maybe I should get a little more into this than I was. This might be a pathway. You got a phone call from J. Cole in the middle of the night. Take me through that experience what was going through your mind? From before you picked up. Then answering. Then hanging up. Well, I previously met Cole in 2012. So I already had his number saved in my phone. So Im just going through the motions, making sure all the links are right. It was 2 oclock in the morning and I was going to post the project at 11:00 am that morning. So Im up late at night trying to get the links right because I had just told my fan base from West 1996 Pt. 1 that I would be coming out with Pt. 2 that morning. Oh, they were expecting it? Yeah! They were expecting the project that day! So I look down at my phone and I see J. Cole text me and it says Yo Im going to call you in second. So then he called and he was like Yo man, I really fuck with this project. Its dope. I hear the pain in your voice. Then he was like Are you about to drop it today? I told him yeah. Then he said Yo man thats fire but umm man I really want to help you out with this project. I really just want to help you out. I can hear struggle and your hunger as well. I want to make sure it gets in the right hands He wasnt even thinking about signing me at the time. He just wanted to help me get it in the hands of the right people. And, umm, he was like, you can do what you want to do but I want get this in the hands of the right people so if you can hold onto it for me. Think about it. So I was like damn, I just told these people that I was just about to come out with this project, 11:00am right there. As soon as I go to sleep, when I wake up its going to be 11:00am. Im thinking, should I hold on to it or should I put it out? This about to be my last project so Im thinking, why not?! I aint got nothing to lose so why not hold onto it. And I did just that. Whats the difference between the West 1996 Pt. 2 that you were going to drop prior to getting signed and the West 1996 Pt. 2 you released with Dreamville? Did you take some tracks off or add some tracks? Oh yeah! Because its a whole different ballgame. Like we were so used to every song on the project is from YouTube. We were so used to just plugging songs and just working with any kind of producer that, now that Im signed, I didnt realize the business background of everything; like having the paperwork and samples cleared we knew nothing about that. So here I am, coming into this situation thinking that I have a complete project, then to find out that we cant find some of these producers, we cant get some of those samples cleared, Im realizing how incomplete this project is. So you got all of these complete songs with all these voids in the middle because everything is incomplete right now. You cant use that beat now or you cant use that hook no more. So going through that, it was discouraging for a while but then I was like you know what man like I dont care what hurdle is coming my way Im going to make sure that I continue to move forward because I didnt have this situation come around for no reason. So its not like Im about to let it stop me right here. You know? Like my mom always told me, God didnt bring you this far to drop you off. So its like I gotta be in this situation for a reason. This shit dont come around twice. Whyd you decide to make this debut album a sequel to your West 1996 mixtape instead of titling it differently and making it its own thing? I just wanted to show people what I was going through leading up to being signed from West 1996 Pt. 1. It was such a hit mixtape to people and they were wondering, where the hell did he go? What happened? So I wanted to give a window of, you know, like I said before music wasnt my priority, I wanted to show people why music wasnt my priority. Im taking care of a kid, Im four months behind on rent. Likes and retweets dont pay bills. Know what Im saying? Youre in partnership, correct? Slum County Inc. is your record label? Can you explain how that came about? Thats my imprint. But Im trying to make it a lot of things honestly. In Charlotte, Im really trying to bring the community together and the hip-hop scene and the whole creative scene. I also draw and paint as well so Im trying to get artists together Im trying to get photographers together, Im also trying to dib and dab into acting and directing. So Im trying to make a platform for everybody to just come in one place and really showcase what we got. Thats Slum County. Whats the difference between your creative process before and after the birth of your daughter? Honestly, this project allowed me to really open up. Im a very reserved person, Im a Cancer, I keep everything within. Ive always moved through life thinking that I can deal with things myself and now I realized I got the people around me that I dont really have to go through certain things by myself no more. I can actually be a little more open and even in my music, Im a little more open now. And now I can really like dig deeper. Before I was just rapping about things that were on the surface and now with this project it allowed me to get out whats within. Youre on a lyrically strong and talented roster, Cole, Bas, Cozz, Omen, J.I.D., Earthgang and Ari Lennox. Is there a Dreamville track that has all of yall on it? Is that something we should be expecting? Ummm. Actually, it is. Well not all of us, but I remember on the Forest Hills Drive Tour, we were in Virginia Beach and there was a microphone, they put a microphone in the middle of the room and Cam OB was in there making beats and sampling his own voice and shit. The beat was free game, you just go ahead and record. It was me, Cole, Bas and Cozz on the hook. I doubt that its going to see the light of day but I cant wait til the day where Me, Omen Cozz, Bas, JID & Earthgang and maybe Ari singing some adlibs or some shit on some crazy ass track. Stop me if Im wrong. You worked at Target? Yeah. Wal-Mart? Yeah. Dollar General? Nah I worked at Harris Teeter though. Thats a grocery store. Oh okay, how close is the timeline of you working at these jobs and getting signed? Its funny that you say that because right after Cole asked me to hold the tape to get it in the right hands, that was in June, and in August he hit me up and was like, Yo I know you just had a daughter and all but about to go on this Forest Hills Drive Tour. Let me know if I can re-compensate for the days you miss if you want to come on this tour; because I want you to come on this tour and really like see what goes on behind stage or behind the scenes. I was like shit man. I just got fired like two or three days ago. So I aint even worried about that. I got my bags Im ready to go. At that moment everything was happening pretty fast after I got fired and stuff like that. But then you know things kind of slowed down for the simple fact that we still had things that we had to put together as far as finding people that produced those songs and those samples being cleared. Thats what really held everything up. If it wasnt rap what would it be? Id be working third shift at Target right now or a mechanic or something. Well thats all the questions that I have. You are a real inspiration to artists everywhere so continue doing what youre doing. I appreciate that bro! I appreciate yall having me. Trailer Park Boys has lost one of its leading characters. Just yesterday, actor John F. Dunsworth, best known for his portrayal of Jim Lahey in the series, passed away at age 71. The late actors daughter, Sarah, confirmed the news via Twitter with a screenshot of a note that read, With heavy and broken hearts the family of John F. Dunsworth would like to let people know that our amazing husband, father and grandfather John Dunsworth has passed away. John left this world peacefully after a short and unexpected illness. John was born in Halifax (where the show is filmed) and moved to Toronto in the late mid-60s where he began doing theatre while attending the University of Guelph. I decided then and there that I dont care if I go broke in my life, I am going to be an actor, because I love to live in other peoples shoes and learn other [existences], he told CBC in a 2010 interview. John played the former trailer supervisor for the shows leads Ricky, Bubbles and Julian. The series sees the trio getting up to tons of schemes as they try a lot of get-rich-quick strategies by selling weed and robbing liquor stores, to say the least. They come across a lot of hangups along the way that usually brings Mr Lahey and his assistant, Randy, mixed up in the drama at some point. Overall Mr Lahey was known for loving the liquor and owning his drunkness throughout the show. Trailer Park Boys is on its 11th season with the show beginning in the year 2001. A notable cameo throughout the years is Snoop Dogg, who appeared in four episodes playing himself. Watch a clip from an episode below. Mr. Lahey If you thought your stoner habits would get you kicked out of school, have no fear at Northern Michigan University, they could actually get you a degree. According to a report from Fox News, the educational institution has introduced a controversial new degree program in marijuana studies. This could help prospective students capitalize on the rising profitability of legal weed sales as a booming business, but as associate chemistry professor Brandon Canfield said, success in the program will require more than just a smokers mentality. Obviously, the program is new and different and it might speak to a certain crowd. But for a student to succeed, theyre going to have to be very dedicated and motivated, he said. This is not an easy program. Its a really intense, biology chemistry program. Canfield noted that, while students wont be growing any marijuana plants within the confines of the program, they will take a close look at similar plants that have value as medicinal solutions for various ailments. The public university made the program available for the current Fall 2017 semester, with the report indicating that around twelve students are already enrolled. Students will partake in courses related to chemistry, biology, botany, horticulture, marketing and finance. When they hear what my major is, there are a lot of people who say, Wow, cool dude. Youre going to get a degree growing marijuana,' said sophomore Alex Roth, who is currently enrolled in the program. But its not an easy degree at all. Other colleges and universities have offers courses on marijuana-based policy and businesses, but Northern Michigan is now the first to build a four-year degree dedicated to both the science and financial side of growing marijuana plants. Many of the states are legalizing different substances and theyre really looking for quality people to do the chemistry and the science, said university trustee James Havemans. And its the universitys responsibility to produce those kinds of students for those kinds of jobs. Canfield added that many growers and dispensaries are already interested in taking on the programs students as interns. Marijuana Page Content The President of the ICAO Council, Dr. Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu (centre left), presented a Council President Certificate to Her Excellency Janice Miller (centre right), High Commissioner for Jamaica to Canada, in recognition of Jamaicas exemplary aviation safety oversight improvements in 2016. The event, which took place on 14 September 2017, was attended by Mr. Nari Williams-Singh, Director General of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA), and Dr. Janine Dawkins, Chief Technical Director at Jamaicas Ministry of Transport and Mining and a Member of the Board of the JCAA. The ICAO Council established the Council President Certificates in support of the Organizations No Country Left Behind initiative. Their aim is to more publicly acknowledge global activities and commitments geared toward the Effective Implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. The eligibility criteria used for this recognition are objective and transparent and are based on the results of ICAOs Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme Continuous Monitoring Approach activities. Gondhoraj Momos Take Over West Bengal; Have You Tried Them Yet? Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The leader of Israel's main opposition party, Labour chair Avi Gabbay, is currently making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Yesterday, Gabbay told Israeli television that he opposed discussing the removal of even the most isolated illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The remarks came a day after Gabbay told a meeting of party activists that the Arabs have to be afraid of us. He added: They fire one missile you fire 20. Thats all they understand in the Middle East. On Saturday, meanwhile, Gabbay vowed to never enter into a coalition with the Joint List, a Knesset group dominated by parties representing Palestinian citizens. The Israeli Labor Party is often presented as a moderate alternative to Benjamin Netanyahu so whats going on here? In one sense, it is not a big surprise; Gabbay, after all, has already previously served in a Netanyahu cabinet, as I noted when the Labour leader won the leadership election in July. Some predicted Gabbay would seek to attract Likud supporters. But beyond Gabbays immediate goals, his series of blunt interventions is a valuable opportunity to subject the Israeli Labour Party to the kind of critical scrutiny it often avoids, particularly in the West, where some like the Jewish Labour Movement and Labour Friends of Israel support the party as progressive allies in the search for peace. Israeli minister attempts selfie with Trump to Netanyahu's dismay The uncomfortable reality is that Gabbays racism, as well as his support for settlements and disproportionate military force, is entirely consistent with the Labour Partys past and present. Previous leader Isaac Herzog ran for prime minister with an advert boasting how he understands the Arab mentality. On another occasion, Herzog declared: I want to keep a Jewish state with a Jewish majority...I dont want a Palestinian prime minister in Israel. It was the Labour Party, as Israeli news site +972 Magazine put it, whose glory days included the Nakba [the ethnic cleansing of Palestine in 1948], as well as conquering and settling the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Just last month, former Israeli premier Ehud Barak bemoaned the fact that a state ceremony celebrating 50 years of the occupation of the West Bank did not give enough credit to the Labour leaders who consolidated and led the settlement enterprise for a decade. Barak was the Labour prime minister, of course, when the Israeli army fired 1.3 million bullets at Palestinian protesters during the first few days of what became the Second Intifada. Gabbays remarks provide three, vital takeaways. First, mere lip service to a two-state solution is meaningless because it can mean so many different things. The Israeli Labour Party has endorsed a vision of separation to an international audience, a two-state solution where Palestinians are condemned to walled-in cantons. The parameters of this future Palestinian state are those of a Bantustan. Metal detectors removed from holy site by Israel authorities I believe that the Land of Israel belongs to the Jews," Gabbay said today. God promised Abraham the entire Land of Israel, but I also believe that since there are 4.5 million Arabs here, we have to compromise in order to create a situation in which we live in our country with a Jewish majority." Second, more broadly, the Israeli maximum on offer does not meet the Palestinians minimum or the standards of international law. Netanyahu likes the status quo. His coalition includes those, like Minister Naftali Bennett, who want formal annexation of the majority of the West Bank. But all the Labor Party is offering by way of an alternative is an Israeli-defined separation plan that smacks of a smarter version of apartheid. In other words, none of the Israeli political parties who are either part of the current ruling coalition, or who could feasibly lead an alternative one, support a solution based on international law and the Palestinian peoples right to self-determination, sovereignty, and return. Finally, understanding the nature of the Israeli opposition underlines the importance of tactics like Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS). While some claim boycotts only empower the Right, the Israeli Labour Party offers a sobering reality check about what is on offer from the moderates. Mumbai, Oct 17 (IBNS): Jet Airways, Indiaas premier, full-service international airline, on Tuesday announced a special offer to celebrate Diwali with its guests. Under this offer, the airline will provide attractive discounts of up to 20 percent on tickets booked during the period. The nine-day fare sale commencing from Oct 17 to 25, 2017, will offer guests discounts of up to 20% on Premiere fares* and up to 10% on Economy fares while booking for travel on the airlines domestic as well as international network. While travel validity for domestic bookings will be from November 01, 2017 onwards, guests booking tickets for international travel can immediately proceed to enjoy the benefit of these special fares booked during the festive offer. Valid for both one way and return journeys, the special fares offer guests substantial savings on Premiere and Economy travel on direct flights across the airlines network spanning 44 destinations in India and 20 abroad. Jayaraj Shanmugam, Chief Commercial Officer, Jet Airways, said, Diwali is celebrated with great fervor across the entire nation. This offer is Jet Airways special way of spreading and sharing the festive spirit with our guests, ensuring that we heighten their reasons to celebrate the Festival of Lights. We are confident that our guests will avail these lucrative fares that will provide them significant savings on their travel bookings. New Delhi, Oct 17 (IBNS): Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that reformative measures like the introduction of GST will improve the economy. He was addressing the 90th anniversary celebration of Andhra Chamber of Commerce, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu on Tuesday. The Governor of Tamil Nadu, Banwarilal Purohit and the Minister for Fisheries, Personnel and Administrative Reforms, Tamil Nadu, D. Jayakumar were present on the occasion. Following is the text of Vice President address: "I am extremely pleased to be amidst you and inaugurate the 90th anniversary celebrations of the Andhra Chamber of Commerce. Ninety years is indeed a major milestone in the journey of this organization which was witness to the birth of Indian Republic and many other momentous events since it was formed in 1928. From 35 members when it was formed, the Andhra Chamber of Commerce has grown into one of the most reputed industry associations and is having 1800 members at present. Besides, 55 trade and industry associations are affiliated to it. Friends, the world is changing at a rapid pace aided by technological and digital revolutions. Any nation unable to keep pace with the changes will become a laggard. India is at the threshold of becoming one of the major economic powers and the private sector can play a huge role in accelerating the growth and development of the country. Tamil Nadu is among the States which are in the forefront of industrialization. This State is known, among others, for the automotive, leather and textiles industries and the hard working nature of the population. To spur growth, we have to improve infrastructure, resource efficiency and promote innovative technologies. Reformative measures like the introduction of GST will improve the economy in the long run, although there might be some teething problems in the initial stages of implementation. In the end, such reforms will also benefit the consumers. With various measures taken by the government to step up economic growth, including FDI in various sectors and given the strong macro-economic fundamentals, India will continue to grow steadily. The economic activity, according to the Country Snapshot published by the World Bank, is expected to stabilize, maintaining annual GDP growth at 7 % in the year 2018. The report goes on to say, Growth is projected to increase to 7.4% by Fiscal year 2020, underpinned by a recovery in private investments prompted by a recent increase in public capex and an improvement in the investment climate (partly due to the passage of the GST and the bankruptcy code and the measures to attract FDI). Describing the two major recent reforms in Indiademonetisation and goods and services tax (GST)as a monumental effort, IMF chief said it is hardly surprising that there is a little bit of a short-term slowdown as a result. But for the medium term, we see a very solid track ahead for the Indian economy, she said to a question on India. Reasons for lower GDP growth during the past quarter. Imaging that you have appointed a Principal, director of a college which is notorious for poor quality of education. You find that most students cheat during the examination with support of the teaches and do well in exams. The result of the college has been always 90 per cent in recent years. You are a person with principles. And hence you have decided to eliminate cheating from the examination. You installed CCTV cameras in all examination halls and also take proper actions towards the students and the teachers mall practices. The results is that, cheating is totally stopped in the examinations. However, the performance of your college dips drastically and less than 50 per cent students passed. This has been a bad performance in the recent years. You know face flack from all sides. Students are angry because they failed due to your strictness, teachers are angry because their track record got spoiled because of your, trustees of the college are angry because the result of their college has taken a beating under your charge. That is what happening in India right now. Womens empowerment is one of the key parameters for the progress of any nation or society. I am happy that Andhra Chamber of Commerce led by Mrs. Indira Dutt, has set up Womens Business Forum to impart training to women students and employees to enable them become entrepreneurs. It is a laudable initiative. I hope the training is not confined to Chennai alone and will be conducted all over the State. The Chamber must identify a few leading industries in each district and tie-up with them for imparting training to women students and employees. I am told that the forum also encourages women to take up community development. I feel that community development programmes must not only help the local communities to empower themselves but also enable them to take up initiatives to reduce poverty, promote sanitation and hygienic practices and create self-employment opportunities, among others. I must also laud the Chamber for proposing to set up a skill development centre in Andhra Pradesh. Setting up of such centres is the need of the hour. As all of you are aware, about 65 per cent of Indias population is under the age of 35 years and the youth need to be provided employment or training to become self-employed. Perhaps, the Chamber might to do well to establish more such centres, both in AP and Tamil Nadu. There is also a huge need to supplement Governments efforts in regard to Make in India and Digital India programmes. Make in India has been launched with a view to increasing the share of manufacturing in our GDP to 25 per cent by 2025. By doing so, it is estimated that additional employment opportunities to the extent of 90 million jobs will be generated. The government is rightly focusing on generating employment and financial inclusion so that bottom of the pyramid, the poorest of the poor gain maximum advantage. A study by the State Bank of India has shown that villages who opened bank accounts under Jan Dhan Yojana may be saving more and reducing their consumption of alcohol and tobacco. We must collectively build on this momentum. Organizations like yours have a crucial role. My best wishes to the Chamber for all its future endeavours. JAI HIND!" Mumbai/ Kolkata, Oct 17 (IBNS): Tata Power on Tuesday announced that it has been inducted as a founding member of Confederation of Indian Industryas (CII) - Ethisphere, USA, South Asia Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA) Chapter. Parshuram Date has been nominated as the committee member to represent Tata Power Group. CII launched its South Asia Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA) in alliance with Ethisphere Institute of USA, with an aim to create a conducive environment for industrial growth through a community of select Indian and multinational companies who will serve as Founding Members of this exclusive initiative. Besides Tata Power, other founding members of BELA include Tata Steel, General Electric, Dell, SBI, Walmart, Dun & Bradstreet, 3M, Coca Cola, and Boeing. The launch of the South Asia BELA Chapter at CIIs headquarter was graced by the presence of high-profile senior executives and business leaders. Speaking on the occasion, Anil Sardana, CEO & MD said, Our participation in this elite industry forum will help us implement best practices in the areas of ethics and further assist us to foster an ethical environment not only in Tata Power but in the overall industry. At Tata Power, we have always appreciated our stakeholders demand for ethical business practices, and have maintained a strong focus on integrity. We are humbled by the opportunity presented to us by CII and Ethisphere Institute of working with some of the most ethical companies across sectors to create a sustainable future, making the mission of the new South Asia BELA Chapter a vital factor in improving transparency and integrity in India. London, Oct 17 (IBNS): Increasing emissions of ozone-destroying chemicals are threatening the recovery of the ozone layer a according to new research from the University of East Anglia (UEA). Thirty years ago, the Montreal Protocol was agreed to phase-out the production of substances destroying the ozone layer. But new research published today in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, a journal of the European Geosciences Union, reveals an unexpected growing danger to the ozone layer from chemicals not regulated by the treaty. It is thought that the new threats come from chemicals used for paint stripping, agriculture, and the production of pharmaceuticals and PVC, which are predominantly being emitted from China. Lead researcher Dr David Oram, from UEAs school of Environmental Sciences, said: Ozone depletion is a well-known phenomenon and, thanks to the success of the Montreal Protocol, is widely perceived as a problem solved. The treaty has helped the layer begin the slow process of healing, lessening the impact to human health from increased exposure to damaging solar radiation. But our research shows that increasing emissions of ozone-destroying substances are threatening the recovery of the ozone layer. The substances in question were not considered damaging before as they were generally thought to be too short-lived to reach the stratosphere in large quantities, said Dr Oram, a research fellow of the UKs National Centre for Atmospheric Science. The new study raises the alarm over fast-increasing emissions of some of these very short-lived chemicals in East Asia, and shows how they can be carried up into the stratosphere and deplete the ozone layer. Emissions of ozone-depleting chemicals in places like China are especially damaging because of cold-air surges in East Asia that can quickly carry industrial pollution into the tropics. It is here that air is most likely to be uplifted into the stratosphere. This means the chemicals can reach the ozone layer before they are degraded and while they can still cause damage. One of the new threats is dichloromethane - a substance with uses varying from paint stripping to agricultural fumigation and the production of pharmaceuticals. The amount of this substance in the atmosphere decreased in the 1990s and early 2000s, but over the past decade dichloromethane has become around 60 per cent more abundant. Dr Oram said: This was a major surprise to the scientific community and we were keen to discover the cause of this sudden increase. We expected that the new emissions could be coming from the developing world, where industrialisation has been increasing rapidly. Our estimates suggest that China may be responsible for around 50-60 per cent of current global emissions [of dichloromethane], with other Asian countries, including India, likely to be significant emitters as well. The team set out to measure air pollution in East Asia to find out where the increase in dichloromethane was coming from and if it could affect the ozone layer. The scientists collected air samples on the ground in Malaysia and Taiwan, in the region of the South China Sea, between 2012 and 2014, and shipped them back to the UK for analysis. They routinely monitor around 50 ozone-depleting chemicals in the atmosphere, some of which are now in decline as a direct consequence of the Montreal Protocol. Dichloromethane was found in large amounts, and so was dichloroethane, an ozone-depleting substance used to make PVC. China is the largest producer of PVC, which is used in many construction materials, and its production in the country has increased rapidly in the past couple of decades. But the rise in dichloroethane emissions was unexpected and surprising because the chemical is both a valuable commodity and highly toxic, said Dr Oram. One would expect that care would be taken not to release dichloroethane into the atmosphere. Data collected from a passenger aircraft that flew over Southeast Asia between December 2012 and January 2014 showed that the substances werent only present at ground level. Dr Oram said: We found that elevated concentrations of these same chemicals were present at altitudes of 12 km over tropical regions, many thousands of kilometres away from their likely source, and in a region where air is known to be transferred into the stratosphere. If the chemicals that were now discovered in unexpectedly large amounts can reach the ozone layer in significant quantities, they can cause damage. We are highlighting a gap in the Montreal Protocol that may need to be addressed in the future, particularly if atmospheric concentrations continue to rise, he added. A growing threat to the ozone layer from short-lived anthropogenic chlorocarbons is published in the EGU open access journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics on October 12, 2017. Image: Wikimedia Commons Washington, Oct 17 (IBNS): For the first time, NASA scientists have detected light tied to a gravitational-wave event, thanks to two merging neutron stars in the galaxy NGC 4993, located about 130 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Hydra. Shortly after 8:41 a.m. EDT on Aug. 17, NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope picked up a pulse of high-energy light from a powerful explosion, which was immediately reported to astronomers around the globe as a short gamma-ray burst. The scientists at the National Science Foundations Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) detected gravitational waves dubbed GW170817 from a pair of smashing stars tied to the gamma-ray burst, encouraging astronomers to look for the aftermath of the explosion. Shortly thereafter, the burst was detected as part of a follow-up analysis by ESAs (European Space Agencys) INTEGRAL satellite. NASA's Swift, Hubble, Chandra and Spitzer missions, along with dozens of ground-based observatories, including the NASA-funded Pan-STARRS survey, later captured the fading glow of the blast's expanding debris. "This is extremely exciting science," said Paul Hertz, director of NASAs Astrophysics Division at the agencys headquarters in Washington. "Now, for the first time, we've seen light and gravitational waves produced by the same event. The detection of a gravitational-wave sources light has revealed details of the event that cannot be determined from gravitational waves alone. The multiplier effect of study with many observatories is incredible." Neutron stars are the crushed, leftover cores of massive stars that previously exploded as supernovas long ago. The merging stars likely had masses between 10 and 60 percent greater than that of our Sun, but they were no wider than Washington, D.C. The pair whirled around each other hundreds of times a second, producing gravitational waves at the same frequency. As they drew closer and orbited faster, the stars eventually broke apart and merged, producing both a gamma-ray burst and a rarely seen flare-up called a "kilonova." "This is the one we've all been waiting for," said David Reitze, executive director of the LIGO Laboratory at Caltech in Pasadena, California. "Neutron star mergers produce a wide variety of light because the objects form a maelstrom of hot debris when they collide. Merging black holes -- the types of events LIGO and its European counterpart, Virgo, have previously seen -- very likely consume any matter around them long before they crash, so we don't expect the same kind of light show." "The favored explanation for short gamma-ray bursts is that they're caused by a jet of debris moving near the speed of light produced in the merger of neutron stars or a neutron star and a black hole," said Eric Burns, a member of Fermi's Gamma-ray Burst Monitor team at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. "LIGO tells us there was a merger of compact objects, and Fermi tells us there was a short gamma-ray burst. Together, we know that what we observed was the merging of two neutron stars, dramatically confirming the relationship." Within hours of the initial Fermi detection, LIGO and the Virgo detector at the European Gravitational Observatory near Pisa, Italy, greatly refined the event's position in the sky with additional analysis of gravitational wave data. Ground-based observatories then quickly located a new optical and infrared source -- the kilonova -- in NGC 4993. To Fermi, this appeared to be a typical short gamma-ray burst, but it occurred less than one-tenth as far away as any other short burst with a known distance, making it among the faintest known. Astronomers are still trying to figure out why this burst is so odd, and how this event relates to the more luminous gamma-ray bursts seen at much greater distances. NASAs Swift, Hubble and Spitzer missions followed the evolution of the kilonova to better understand the composition of this slower-moving material, while Chandra searched for X-rays associated with the remains of the ultra-fast jet. When Swift turned to the galaxy shortly after Fermis gamma-ray burst detection, it found a bright and quickly fading ultraviolet (UV) source. "We did not expect a kilonova to produce bright UV emission," said Goddards S. Bradley Cenko, principal investigator for Swift. "We think this was produced by the short-lived disk of debris that powered the gamma-ray burst." Over time, material hurled out by the jet slows and widens as it sweeps up and heats interstellar material, producing so-called afterglow emission that includes X-rays. But the spacecraft saw no X-rays -- a surprise for an event that produced higher-energy gamma rays. NASAs Chandra X-ray Observatory clearly detected X-rays nine days after the source was discovered. Scientists think the delay was a result of our viewing angle, and it took time for the jet directed toward Earth to expand into our line of sight. "The detection of X-rays demonstrates that neutron star mergers can form powerful jets streaming out at near light speed," said Goddard's Eleonora Troja, who led one of the Chandra teams and found the X-ray emission. "We had to wait for nine days to detect it because we viewed it from the side, unlike anything we had seen before." On Aug. 22, NASAs Hubble Space Telescope began imaging the kilonova and capturing its near-infrared spectrum, which revealed the motion and chemical composition of the expanding debris. "The spectrum looked exactly like how theoretical physicists had predicted the outcome of the merger of two neutron stars would appear," said Andrew Levan at the University of Warwick in Coventry, England, who led one of the proposals for Hubble spectral observations. "It tied this object to the gravitational wave source beyond all reasonable doubt." Astronomers think a kilonova's visible and infrared light primarily arises through heating from the decay of radioactive elements formed in the neutron-rich debris. Crashing neutron stars may be the universe's dominant source for many of the heaviest elements, including platinum and gold. Because of its Earth-trailing orbit, Spitzer was uniquely situated to observe the kilonova long after the Sun moved too close to the galaxy for other telescopes to see it. Spitzer's Sept. 30 observation captured the longest-wavelength infrared light from the kilonova, which unveils the quantity of heavy elements forged. "Spitzer was the last to join the party, but it will have the final word on how much gold was forged," says Mansi Kasliwal, Caltech assistant professor and principal investigator of the Spitzer observing program. Numerous scientific papers describing and interpreting these observations have been published in Science, Nature, Physical Review Letters and The Astrophysical Journal. Gravitational waves were directly detected for the first time in 2015 by LIGO, whose architects were awarded the 2017 Nobel Prize in physics for the discovery. Image Credits: NASA and ESA New Delhi, Oct 17 (IBNS) : The Indian Navy's aircraft on Sunday joined the search operation for ten Indian sailors missing after their ship sunk in the pacific off the Philippines coast last week. "Indian Navy P81 has reached Manila and has also joined the search and rescue operation for missing Indians," External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said in a series of tweets. Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of 'Emerald Star' in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen pic.twitter.com/tKXWwKzfng Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 16, 2017 https://twitter.com/MEAIndia The Minister said she has been informed by the Indian embassy in Japan that a helicopter and two patrol vessels of Japan coast guard are already engaged in search and rescue operation. The Indian mission in Philippines and China have also been in the operation. Emerald Star, a 33,000-tonne ship with 26 Indians on board was caught in a typhoon on Friday, September 13. After the ship sent distress signal 16 of the crew members were rescued by other ships nearby. The Foreign Ministry said officials from the Indian Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured crew in a Xiamen hospital. "Officials from our Guangzhou Consulate visited the injured Indian crew of 'Emerald Star' in a Xiamen hospital. 11 crew members are in Xiamen, MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Image: @MEAindia Perth, Oct 17 (IBNS): A problem mid-flight coupled with alleged hysterical behaviour of the cabin crew threw passengers aboard an Indonesia AirAsia flight to Bali from Perth into a terrible panic on Sunday morning , according to media reports. About half an hour into the flight, Flight QZ 535 from Perth, Australia, the plane lost height rapidly and oxygen masks dropped from the ceiling owing to cabin depressurisation, media reported. Passengers were also asked to get into the brace position, reports said. According to media reports, passengers alleged that they were traumatised by the behaviour of the cabin crew who turned hysterical and even screamed 'emergency'. "Hostesses started screaming: 'Emergency, emergency,'" Mark Bailey, one of the passengers, told Australia's Seven News."There was no real panic before that, then everyone panicked." Another media report quoted Leah, a passenger from Perth as saying, "I actually picked up my phone and sent a text message to my family, just hoping that they would get it." Clare Askew, another passenger, said that the panic escalated "because of the behavior of staff who were screaming, looked tearful and shocked." The Bali, Indonesia-bound plane was met by emergency service workers when it returned safely to Perth about an hour and a half after it had taken off, media reported. Passengers were transferred to other flights and given "all necessary assistance," the airline said. "We commend our pilots for landing the aircraft safely and complying with standard operating procedure," Ling Liong Tien, head of safety for AirAsia Group, said in a statement. "We are fully committed to the safety of our guests and crew and we will continue to ensure that we adhere to the highest safety standards." In 2014, Indonesia AirAsia's Singapore-bound Flight QZ 8501 had crashed into the Java Sea, killing all 162 people on board, according to media reports. Lucknow, Oct 17 (IBNS): Away from recent controversies surrounding the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said the grand Indian iconic structure was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers. The Chief Minister told media: "It does not matter who built it or for which reason, it was built by blood and sweat of Indian labourers." Amid the controversy over the omission of Taj Mahal from Uttar Prdesh tourism department booklet, Yogi Adityanath is also likely to visit Agra on Oct 25 on what is being perceived as a damage control mission. According to reports, Adityanath is expected to visit Taj Mahal and other monuments in the city. On Sunday, BJP MLA Sangeet Som defended the omission of Taj Mahal as one of the tourist attractions, saying the monument was built by a 'traitor' who imprisoned his father and targeted Hindus. He said the Governments at the state and Centre are working to erase the blot of Akbar, Aurangzeb and Babur from history books. Many people were pained to see that the Taj Mahal had been removed from the list of historical places what history which history the person who made Taj Mahal imprisoned his father he targeted the Hindus of Uttar Pradesh and India if these people still find place in history, then it is very unfortunate and I guarantee that history will be changed, Som said while addressing a programme at Meerut. His comments drew criticism from various quarters, though the party later claimed that what Som had said only reflected his own views. Srinagar, Oct 17 (IBNS): Supporters of militants a house of ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) worker Muhammad Ramzan on fire in Shopian district of south Kashmir on Tuesday. Ramzan was killed last night by militants. According to police, some youths, who are believed to be supporters of local militants in the area , set the house on fire after Showkat Falahi, a Hizb militant was killed in scuffle last night. Three militants, including Falahi, fired upon Ramzan at his home in Homun village of Nagbal last night around 8 pm, police said on Monday. Falahi was killed in a scuffle by his own associate. In a tweet, Director General of Police Shesh Paul Vaid wrote, A mob on the instigation of militants attacked the house of ex sarpanch who was killed last night, police and Special Forces have rushed to the spot, In another tweet Shesh Paul Vaid said, "Family has been rescued by the police and security forces. Strong action under law is being taken against the perpetrators." (Reporting by Saleem Iqbal Qadri|) New Delhi, Oct 17 (IBNS): Around 85% of Indians have full faith in the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a recent survey stated. The survey, which was conducted by Pew Research Center, stated around 55% of the people supports the autocracy in one way or the other. On the other hand, 27% of people wants a "strong leader". India is one of those three countries in Asia Pacific region which supports technocracy. "Asian-Pacific publics generally back rule by experts, particularly people in Vietnam (67%), India (65%) and the Philippines (62%)," the report was quoted by media. However, Australians contradicted to say such a governance would not be good. On the other hand, among Russians, 48% of the people who were surveyed support governance by a strong leader. Interesting, nearly 53% and 52% of people of India and South Africa opined that military rule will be good for their countries. The older generation, though, do not approve the military rule for countries like India and South Africa. Darjeeling, Oct 17 (IBNS): Following the appeal by the West Bengal government, the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday stayed the withdrawal of central paramilitary forces from violence-hit Darjeeling till October 27, media reports said. The central government has earlier ordered the withdrawal of 10 out of 15 forces from Darjeeling. Following the withdrawal of the central paramilitary forces by the union government in Darjeeling, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, a day ago, said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is trying to destabilise the hills in the state. At a press conference, after meeting with all hill parties, Banerjee uttered some strong words against her political rival, the BJP, alleging the latter of playing a political game at a time when Darjeeling is getting back to normalcy after the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) called off their strike last month. Accusing the central government, Banerjee had said: "The withdrawal of the central forces is a conspiracy by the BJP party to divide Bengal and destabilise." She even vented out her anger against the Centre for not consulting with the Trinamool Congress-led West Bengal government before withdrawing the forces. The chief minister even said the decision to withdraw the central forces was taken from the BJP party office. Banerjee wrote letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Rajnath Singh to convey her dissatisfaction in the whole issue. The forces were withdrawn couple of days back after a police officer was killed and at least four cops were seriously injured in a crossfire between security forces and the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) supporters loyal to Bimal Gurung. According to sources, acting on a tip off that Bimal Gurung had returned to Darjeeling from neighbouring state Sikkim and taken shelter in an illegal arms factory-cum-warehouse at Takvar area near Gurung's political-base Patlebas, a heavy police force cordoned off the area and had began search operation. When police were searching houses at Limbu Basti, the GJM activists had reportedly started fire aiming at the cops on Thursday midnight. Following an appeal of Union home minister Rajnath Singh, the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), finally called off an indefinite strike in Darjeeling after 104 days on September 27. The indefinite strike was called with the demand of a separate Gorkhaland. The protest by the GJM had started after West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee held an administrative meeting in Darjeeling months ago. Banerjee's meeting was followed by a protest by the GJM supporters who had ransacked several government properties, leading to a complete shutdown in the hills. The WB CM on Monday said the meeting with the hill parties was "very good and positive". They will next meet on November 21 in Darjeeling. New York, Oct 17(Just Earth News): Highlighting the importance of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to ensure a life of dignity for all, United Nations Secretary-General AntAnio Guterres called for redoubling of efforts to eradicate poverty it in its entirety. This globally agreed agenda, pledges to secure a healthy planet and build peaceful and inclusive societies to ensure lives of dignity for all, said the Secretary-General in a video message marking the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Its pledge to leave no one behind will require innovative approaches, partnerships and solutions. In particular, he called for addressing the root causes of poverty to eradicate it in its entirety, and in doing so to listen to the views and guidance of people living in poverty and acting together with them. Despite progress to eliminate poverty, more than 800 million people around the world continue live in extreme poverty and many more are threatened by alarming rates of unemployment, insecurity, inequality, conflict as well as the effect of climate change. Eliminating poverty, and alleviating the suffering and building resilience of those living in poverty is the target for Goal 1 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty in all its forms everywhere. The Goal also aims to ensure social protection for the poor and vulnerable, increase access to basic services and support people harmed by climate-related extreme events and other economic, social and environmental shocks and disasters. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the decision by the General Assembly, designating 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The theme for this year's commemoration is Answering the Call of October 17 to end poverty: A path toward peaceful and inclusive societies. It recognizes the knowledge and courage of families living in poverty throughout the world, as well as the importance of reaching out to the poorest and building an alliance with citizens from all backgrounds to end poverty. Photo: Jamie Martin/World Bank Source: www.justearthnews.com New York, Oct 17(Just Earth News): The United Nations refugee agency is concerned about the humanitarian condition of up to 15,000 Rohingya refugees who are stranded in paddy fields near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. Since Sunday night, an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 Rohingya refugees have entered Bangladesh through the Anjuman Para border crossing point in Ukhia district in the countrys south-east, Andrej Mahecic, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), told reporters Tuesday in Geneva. Many say they had initially chosen to remain in their homes in Myanmars northern Rakhine state despite repeated threats to leave or be killed. They finally fled when their villages were set on fire, he added. Tensions have escalated into violence in Myanmars northern Rakhine state. Since 25 August, an estimated 582,000 Rohingya Muslims have arrived in Bangladesh. As of Tuesday morning, the new arrivals were still squatting in the paddy fields of Anjuman Para village, where the sound of gunfire continues to be heard every night from the Myanmar side. UNHCR is advocating with the Bangladesh authorities to urgently admit these refugees fleeing violence and increasingly-difficult conditions back home. UNHCR and our partners are delivering food and water to the stranded refugees, among them children, women and the elderly who are dehydrated and hungry from the long journey. Every minute counts given the fragile condition theyre arriving in, said Mahecic. The UN Childrens Fund (UNICEF) said Tuesday that without immediate additional funding, the agency will not be able to continue providing lifesaving aid and protection to Rohingya children who have fled horrific violence in Myanmar. UNICEF spokesperson Marixie Mercado told reporters in Geneva that almost 60 per cent of the refugees who have fled Myanmar since August 25 are children. The growing needs are far outpacing resources, she said, noting that as of Tuesday, UNICEF has received just 7 per cent of the $76 million required to provide emergency support to children over the next six months. Without more funding, UNICEF would soon have to stop lifesaving services. Rohingya children have already endured atrocities. All of them need the lifesaving basics shelter, food, water, vaccinations, protection not tomorrow or next week or next month, but right now, she said. Photo: UNHCR/Roger Arnold Source: www.justearthnews.com Ottawa, Oct 17 (IBNS): Joshua Boyle, who has been released from the Taliban captivity along with his wife last week, disclosed the reasons behind their decision to have kids in the captivity, media reports said. Boyle, whose wife was pregnant at a time of the abduction by the Taliban in Afghanistan, said they had planned to make a large family in the captivity. Boyle said he and his wife wanted to have as many as children in the captivity as his spouse was ageing. Boyle's wife Caitlan Coleman gave birth to four children in the captivity. Boyle later said the abductors had killed his fourth child and also raped his wife. The Taliban have denied Canadian man Joshua Boyle's allegations that the kidnappers had raped his wife and killed one of his children in the captivity, media reports said. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Boyle's wife had a "natural miscarriage" following an illness and she could not be treated with doctors as they were in a remote area. "No one has either intentionally murdered the child of this couple and neither has anyone violated or defiled them" Mujahid said in the statement. He also denied Boyle's allegations that his wife was being raped in the captivity. Joshua Boyle (34) and Caitlan Coleman (31), who were kidnapped by the Taliban linked Haqqani network in 2012 as the couple crossed into Afganistan, reached Canada on Friday after the release.. Coleman was pregnant at a time the couple was kidnapped in 2012 and they had four children in the captivity. Interacting with media, after reaching Canada last week, Boyle said: "The stupidity and evil of the Haqqani network's kidnapping of a pilgrim and his heavily pregnant wife engaged in helping ordinary villagers in Taliban-controlled regions of Afghanistan was eclipsed only by the stupidity and evil of authorising the murder of my infant daughter." The Pakistan government issued a statement on Thursday to confirm the news of the rescue of the Canadian family with the help of an operation carried out by the troops and intelligence agencies of the country. In a youtube video uploaded in 2016, Boyle, as per the instructions given by the kidnappers, urged the Afganistan government that if it did not stop killing the Talibani prisoners then his family will be killed. Later, Boyle's parents made a video to address the captivators, saying: "Weve done the best an ordinary Canadian family can do. Ive personally written to several of the most senior government officials in Afghanistan, those with great power over the execution of your brothers. Weve done what youve asked of us, were now respectfully asking you to show mercy to our family members in return. Please" Boyle's father said while addressing the captivators. Expressing relief over the release of the couple, Canadian foreign affairs minister, Chrystia Freeland, said: "Canada has been actively engaged with the governments of the United States, Afghanistan and Pakistan and we thank them for their efforts, which have resulted in the release of Joshua, Caitlan and their children." "Joshua, Caitlan, their children and the Boyle and Coleman families have endured a horrible ordeal over the past five years. We stand ready to support them as they begin their healing journey, he added. (Reporting by Suman Das) A pet dog came to the rescue of his master after he was attacked by eight men with knives in outer Delhi's Mangolpuri on Thursday. The dog suffered knife wounds but chased away the attackers and helped in catching two of them. Police officials said that Rakesh Singh, an MCD official was attacked by eight men outside his house. Family members of Singh said that he had gone downstairs to feed their dog Tyson when the attack happened. "Around 10:30 pm, we heard some people shouting and our dog barking loudly. As I went downstairs, I saw my father being held by six people" said Singh's son, Akash, adding that the dog jumped in between and started attacking the accused. BCCL The dog was also stabbed thrice but continued to fight the attacker and chased them away. He also held bit one of the accused on his leg and did not let him leave till people from the neighbourhood assembled there and apprehended him. Family members are giving credit to Tyson for saving Singh's life. The dog is still recuperating from the severe knife injuries it suffered. The family had adopted the dog as an abandoned puppy from the road last year. It's a problem that plagues every city in India. Open sewage drains, broken pipes, potholes every step of the way, has left residents frustrated. To protest against the city's falling infrastructure, Bengaluru residents formed a 2km-long human chain. According to a Deccan Chronicle report, in the protest, organised by the Outer Ring Road Marathahalli Residents Association, over 500 people from children to youngsters to elders took part. YouTube Screenshot Also read: Another Artist Runs Crusade Against Potholes, Fills Them Creatively To Make A Point The residents slammed the BBMP for not taking a step towards resolving the problem of clogged drains, broken roads and open sewage across the city. They held placards that read, 'We want basic infrastructure road, water and drain,' 'We need to walk, not skywalk,' 'We demand a decent atmosphere' and 'Swachh Bharat begins at home, our homes are clean but roads are not.' The report quoted, Ms Meena Kumari, a Marathahalli resident, saying, How do you feel if your house gets flooded with sewage water when it rains? Will BBMP officials and politicians stay if their house is in this condition? Will they not immediately find the root cause and fix the problem? Also Read: Killer Potholes On Roads Claim Lives Of At Least 2,500 People Every Year Across India The city's infrastructure has gone from bad to worse over the years but this time around the residents are standing up against the authorities and pushing them to take action. The hunt for the 10 Indians on-board a cargo ship that sank in the Pacific off Japan has entered its fifth day. The Indian Navy has sent a maritime reconnaissance aircraft to the Philippines to join search operation for the missing crew. The P 8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft landed at the Villamor air base in Manila and will shortly start the search operation. ANI On Friday, the 33,205-tonne cargo ship Emerald Star sank off Okinawa. Sixteen Indians have been already rescued, while a search was still on for 10 other missing Indians. A Indian Navy plane took off for Philippines's Manila last night to conduct search & rescue operation for missing sailors of MV Emerald Star pic.twitter.com/1KBK1irjJ0 ANI (@ANI) 16 October 2017 Indian missions in Japan, the Philippines and China were coordinating the search operation. Updated status regarding the 26 Indian crew members of vessel 'Emerald Star' pic.twitter.com/EBIuyoCzwa Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) 15 October 2017 "One P-8I aircraft took off at 11:45 PM yesterday for Manila to search for missing sailors of MV Emerald Star," the Navy official said. Whats common between a school trying to combat roadside garbage and a startup accurately predicting stock movement? AI, of course! Let me explain. Tackling roadside waste and accurately tracking stocks are age-old issues, and theyve been dealt with little or no success. But for the first time, both these problem are being solved using innovative AI tools which we didnt have until just a few years ago. The advancing drumbeats of AI To say that AI is the buzzword of the technology world would be a bit of an understatement. While the field of artificial intelligence and research around the topic has been around for decades, the inherent technology firepower required to truly unleash AIs goodness didnt hit a tipping point until recently. IMGUR But before getting drowned into the humdrum of excitement, its important to remember what AIs trying to achieve. This calls for a different type of approach in computing, where the focus isnt only on brute processing power but developing the ability to draw inference and deduction from the data at hand. Its about trying to get a computer to think and behave like a human brain so that it could take decisions like us. Its easier said than done, of course. And a brain is only as good as the information fed into it to draw meaningful conclusions from, right? If data can be gathered to train an AI system, enabling it to draw an inference or conclusion of some kind, you have an AI capable of taking a process decision -- which can then be plugged into your business process. Cleaning up the streets This is exactly what Dr. KV Subramaniam, Professor, Cloud Computing and Big Data Center, and Savitha Murthy, Assistant Professor, PES University, tried to replicate as they wage a digital war against Bangalores garbage problem. REUTERS India generates 4.2 million tonnes of garbage every day, of which only 83% is collected. As much as 7,14,000 tonnes of garbage remains uncollected, polluting the environment on a daily basis. Using Nervana DevCloud -- Intels AI tuned cloud computing service -- and NxtGen which offers the ability to easily run deep learning algorithms, Dr Subramaniams team at PES University developed a smartphone-based app to take care of Bangalores overflowing garbage bins and roadside littering. Dr Subramaniams vision was to create a technology platform which would aid municipal authorities to identify and clear the garbage. Seems like an easy enough solution, right? Thousands of people using the app to take pictures and report garbage spillage all over Bangalore. Their anti-garbage app became popular on Android, but as a side-effect people started erroneous or spurious pictures on the platform, wasting precious time of city officials. The fundamental problem Dr Subramaniams team solved was to train the apps AI system to identify whether a picture uploaded in its database contained garbage or not. This involved taking a machine learning approach to help educate the AI system on how to classify an image, based on 20,000 labelled images containing garbage and take appropriate action, while ignoring every other image as bad or not worth civic officials time. Today, Dr Subramaniams clever AI-based smartphone app is helping rein in Bangalores garbage problem. Stocks prediction through AI Raghavendra HM, Data Scientist at DataLore Labs, a Bangalore based Predictive Modeling and Natural Language Processing company which provides data science as a service. He elaborated on how their company delivers one of the best stock price prediction algorithm, through a service called StockLore, using Googles TensorFlow and Intel Nervana DevCloud, which is powered by Intel Xeon Scalable Processors. Thanks to cutting edge AI training and inference tools, DataLore Labs is able to better predict the rise and fall of stock prices -- based on years of historical data and analysis of hundreds of factors -- with a pretty good success rate. How to accelerate AI adoption Theres little doubt that adopting AI learnings in every business vertical is the way to go. Problem is how to ensure skilled developers get onto the AI bandwagon at the earliest? One way is to do what Intel is doing in India, with a vision to train 15,000 developers, students and professors across 90 different organizations with the requisite AI skill sets. By closely working with over 40 academic institutions that are using the technology for scientific research, and 50 public and private organizations across e-commerce, healthcare, technology, defence, and banking & financial services sectors, Intel is reducing AI entry barriers and providing the community with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with AI tools. Power outages in Moldova after Russian strikes in Ukraine AP - 27 minutes ago Moldova has reported massive power outages across the country after Russian military strikes on Ukraines energy infrastructure downed a key power line that supplies the small nation $SPX : 4,007.76 (+1.28%) $DOWI : 33,844.34 (+0.92%) $IUXX : 11,941.93 (+2.06%) Producer Price Index Looms. The Corn & Ethanol Report 11/15/2022 The PRICE Futures Group - 1 hour ago We kickoff the day with PPI MoM and YoY (Oct), Core PPI MoM and YoY (OCT), and New York Empire State Manufacturing Index (Nov) at 7:30 A.M., Redbook YoY (12/Nov) at 7:55 A.M., Fed Cook Speech at 8:99 A.M.,... Coming rally in the CORN ETF ONE44 Analytics - 1 hour ago Using both of these methods the CORN ETF is coming into a key area. The Fibonacci 38.2% retracement from the 7/22/22 low and 10/10/22 high is 26.10 and just below this is a major Gann square at 25.95. CORN : 26.37 (+0.57%) Asia Asian Nations Struggle to Meet Global Target to Lower Deaths in Childbirth Premature babies lie on their cribs at the Fabella government maternity hospital in Manila / Erik De Castro / Reuters BANGKOK It seemed a simple statement: women should not die from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. Yet two years after world leaders agreed to 17 global goals at the United Nations, including the childbirth target, countries in Asia Pacific are grappling to twin the rhetoric with social, cultural and political realities. An estimated 85,000 mothers died in 2015 from childbirth in the region, home to more than half of the worlds population and some of its fastest growing economies, UN figures show, with the maternal mortality rate seen as a key way to measure improvement in a nations health. These deaths accounted for 28 percent of the global total, translating into a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 127 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the UN agency for population UNFPA, which released its latest State of the World Population Report on Tuesday. Up to 90 percent of these deaths occur in 12 countries, according to UNFPA whose officials have calculated which are likely to meet the global target of reducing its MMR to below 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Bangladesh, Laos, East Timor and Indonesia are seen as likely to meet the deadline. But Afghanistan, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Myanmar, Pakistan, India, Cambodia and the Philippines, are seen as failing to reach the target by varying degrees. Reducing maternal deaths requires political will, government foresight and access to family planning, according to campaigners. [This is] an issue thats still too often seen as medical, and strictly related to womens life. Its not, Federica Maurizio, a sexual health and reproductive rights expert at UNFPA in Bangkok, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Maternal health is one of the key indicators that really tells you how much the health system in a country is able to provide for the people. Oona Campbell, professor of epidemiology and reproductive health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said it raises wider issues of womens place in society. Do we care about women? Do we think its not a problem if the wife dies? Is this something we care about enough to deliver services that are good quality? she said. Too Good to be True? Campbell said it was not entirely accurate to chart a countrys progress using a global goal. Another way to measure progress, she suggested, was to use country level targets, such as aiming to reduce maternal deaths by at least two-thirds from 2010, and for no country to have an MMR greater than 140 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Campbell also cautioned that data is weak in many countries due to a lack of civil registration and poor cause-of-death records. This could mean calculations of Afghanistans dramatic improvement, hailed as one of the gains of foreign aid there, may be an overestimate, said Campbell. UN figures showed the maternal mortality rate had dropped to 396 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2015 from 1,600 deaths in 2002 after the US-led invasion that ousted the Taliban after the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001. But Afghanistans own data put its MMR three times higher. Mateen Shaheen, UNFPAs deputy representative in the country, said womens access to healthcare in Afghanistan remained tricky as culture dictates that women are only seen by female healthcare workers. UNFPA operates 124 clinics staffed by women and aims to nearly double that by the late 2018. Meanwhile, the maternal mortality rate has been almost flat in the past 25 years in the Philippines, a wealthier nation than Afghanistan. In 2015, there was 114 deaths for every 100,000 births with 2,700 women dying in childbirth despite an increase in skilled birth attendants and access to anti-natal care. A law was passed in 2012 insuring access to contraception, sexual education and maternal care but it has been mired in legal challenges, said Klaus Beck, UNFPA country director in the Philippines. The Philippines is the only Southeast Asian country where teenage pregnancies are not falling which Beck said could also impact maternal mortality with the risk for mothers under the age of 15 in low- and middle income countries double that for older women. The absence of a legal framework to provide access to family planning, particularly for the poorest, has always been a stumbling block for many, many years, in the disaster- and conflict-prone archipelago, said Beck. Burma Commander-in-Chief Tells UN Official People Unhappy With UNs Rakhine Comments Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the UN Jeffrey Feltman (left) and Myanmar Army Chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing (right) meet on Monday in Naypyitaw. / Commander-in-Chief Office / Facebook YANGON The Myanmar Army chief told a visiting UN senior official that native ethnics were unhappy with UN comments on Rakhine State as they were totally contrary to the situation on the ground. Since a series of Muslim militant attacks on 30 police outposts in northern Rakhine State in late August, more than 500,000 self-identifying Rohingya Muslims have fled to neighboring Bangladesh as the army launched clearance operations. The UN, international aid groups, and journalists have documented cases of rape, torture, arbitrary killings, and arson of minority self-identifying Rohingya Muslims by government security forces. The UN has labeled the violence a textbook example of ethnic cleansing. Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing told Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the UN Jeffrey Feltman on Monday in Naypyitaw that the UN used the recent crisis as the base for comments without taking into account the long and emotional history of the situation, according to a post about the meeting on the Commander-in-Chief Offices Facebook. The Under Secretary-General was touring Rakhine State on Tuesday. He is the most senior UN official to visit Myanmar to render long- and short-term assistance for the governments endeavors on the recent Rakhine issue. Currently, most international relief agencies, including the UN, have been banned from northern Rakhine State as the government accused them of providing assistance to Muslim militants involved in the Aug 25 attacks. With respect to the feelings of Arakanese Buddhists about humanitarian aid, the senior general said, the UN needed to change the view that assistance provided by INGOs was intended only for self-identifying Rohingya. [The perception that aid was handed out unfairly] was regarded as an act of bullying with the help of foreign organizations, including the UN, at a time when the majority Bengalis killed the minority ethnics. The UN needed to carry out the delivery of assistance fairly and equally, he said. Burma KNU Secretary Calls for Constitutional Change to Alleviate Rakhine Crisis Karen National Union chairman GenSaw Mutu Say Poe shakes hand with Tatmadaw chief Sen Gen Min Aung Hlaing on Monday, Oct. 16 in Naypyitaw. / Karen National Union HQ Facebook CHIANG MAI, Thailand The Karen National Union (KNU) has appealed for the government and military to find politically dignified and nonviolent ways to alleviate the current Rakhine State crisis. About 536,000 self-identifying Rohingya Muslims have fled Rakhine for Bangladesh since Aug. 25 Muslim militant attacks on police stations and an army base intensified clearance operations plagued by accusations of indiscriminate killing, rape and arson. The KNU had fought with the Tatmadaw for more than six decades starting in 1949 until the ethnic armed group signed a bilateral ceasefire with the quasi-civilian government in 2012 and then became one of eight signatories to the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) in 2015. Padoh Saw Ta Doh Moo, general secretary of the KNU, told The Irrawaddy on Tuesday the KNU is concerned about the welfare of civilians affected by the violence, as ethnic Karen endured similar military operations in 1979-80 and 1998-99 that led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of the Karen population of southeast Myanmar. A KNU statement released on the second anniversary of the NCA on Sunday read that the government and Tatmadaws handling of the Rakhine crisis bring the memory of what the KNU and the Karen people have experienced under the states four-cut policy through various forms of aggressive military operations that caused over 200,000 Karen people to become internally displaced persons (IDPs) and over 150,000 to become refugees. The statement acknowledged efforts to achieve peace are being made, but regrets to witness the repeat of the history from the past 20-30 years. It called for nonviolent solutions to the crisis and stated worries that the peace process will be derailed. As a peace partner, we raise our concerns to change those situations, Padoh Saw Ta Doh Moo told The Irrawaddy. For disputes and problems between our nationalities, we could find the solutions through negotiations based on our national reconciliation concept, but the Rakhine crisis is related to international and religious beliefs. Such pressure is an added burden to Myanmar and affects the peace process, he said. Self-identifying Rohingya Muslims are not considered indigenous people of Myanmar by most in the country and widely referred to as Bengalis. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi launched the Union Enterprise for Humanitarian Assistance, Resettlement and Development in Rakhine last week to tackle the humanitarian crisis. The enterprise will focus on repatriating and providing aid for those who fled to Bangladesh, according to the government. But the predicament of other mass repatriation efforts paints a gloomy picture for Rakhine. Displaced Karen in the southeast, Shan in the east, and Kachin in the north are yet to be repatriated. We have not yet been able to start the repatriations of Karen refugees who became displaced in the last two or three decades, said Padoh Saw Ta Doh Moo. At that time, many innocent civilians faced many troubles. Nearly 100,000 refugees live in nine camps along the Thailand-Myanmar border, the majority of them Karen, according to a 2016 The Border Consortium (TBC) report. Padoh Saw Ta Doh Moo said Rakhines deep-rooted problems should have been tackled carefully and systematically by the governments although they [Muslims in Rakhine] may not be the ethnic nationalities, but the remains of the negative legacy of colonial Burma [Myanmar] in northern Rakhine. Because of the lack of solutions, he said, the problems have expanded and weighed on Myanmars existing social issues. The KNU statement urged for a constitutional change to create a society for peaceful coexistence and to address the remaining negative legacy of colonialism in Myanmar. The negative legacy, said Padoh Saw Ta Doh Moo, was problems arising from Muslim laborers brought into Myanmar from the then Indian colony. In order for a check and balance system to emerge, we need to change the 2008 Constitution, as the [military-backed] Constitution is different from democratic principles, and now the government and the Tatmadaw have to negotiate for the power, he said. The KNU statement reiterated its commitment to achieve peace through solving the problems by way of political means. The NCA signatories peace process steering team led by KNU chairman Gen Saw Mutu Say Poe met separately with the State Counselor and the Tatmadaw chief Snr Gen Min Aung Hlaing on Monday afternoon to discuss the effective implementation of the NCA. The State Counselor agreed to a joint review of the NCA and further collaboration in order to hold union peace conferences, said KNU vice chairman Padoh Saw Kwe Htoo Win, who was present at the meetings. Leaders of the NCA signatories were in Naypyitaw for two days, as they joined the NCA two-year commemoration. On Monday morning, Gen Saw Mutu Say Poe and Gen Yawd Serk, chairman of the Restoration Council of Shan State, also separately met the former president U Thein Sein for social greetings, according to the spokespersons of both groups. Burma Presidential Proposal to Change Fiscal Year The Union Parliament resumed on Tuesday after more than a month-long break. / The Irrawaddy YANGON A presidential proposal to change the national fiscal year was submitted to the Union Parliament on Thursday in Naypyitaw. The Myanmar governments fiscal year is the 12-month period beginning on 1 April and ending on 31 March. President U Htin Kyaw submitted a letter to Parliament late last month urging lawmakers to change it to 1 October through to 30 September starting from the 2018-19 financial year. Fiscal years vary in different countries156 countries follow the calendar year while 12 countries including the United States, Laos and Thailand use the October-September period. Myanmar has been practicing the April-March fiscal year since 1974. On Tuesday, the first day of Parliament after more than a month-long break, the deputy minister U Maung Maung Win for the planning and finance ministry took the floor, saying that the possible redetermination was based on the nature of slow, local infrastructure businesses and a long New Year holiday in the early period of the current fiscal year. The construction industry doesnt have much business during monsoon while there is effective operation and no long holidays starting from October, U Maung Maung Win said, endorsing the proposal at Parliament. He added that changing it would balance the accounting process for businesses and institutions. The determination of the fiscal year is mainly based on a countrys economic mission, monetary and financial policies, he said. The issue was brought into parliamentary discussion late last year by a lawmaker and was later discussed during the meeting of the union financial commission held in July. Based on consultation with union ministries and state-level institutions, the decision to change the fiscal year was made by cabinet members in September, U Maung Maung Win explained. Union lawmakers will discuss the presidential proposal later this week. Burma Protests Over Dismissal of ANP Township Secretary Accused of Corruption People protest in front of Arakan National Party headquarters in Rakhine State capital Sittwe on Tuesday. / Min Aung Khaing / The Irrawaddy YANGON After the Arakan National Party (ANP)s central executive committee dismissed township-level secretary Aung Than Wai last week, several hundred Sittwe residents, unhappy with the decision, protested against the party steering committee on Tuesday afternoon. During a two-day meeting the previous week, 21 CEC members discussed the situation in Rakhine State, future development of the state, and the punishment of party officials accused of misconduct. Khine Pyay Soe, chair of the partys disciplinary committee, told The Irrawaddy over the phone on Monday that CEC members voted to dismiss Aung Than Wai. Twelve members voted for dismissal, seven members elected for Aung Than Wai to be removed from the position but to remain a party member, and some attendees such as Dr. Aye Maung, abstained from voting, he said. ANP insiders told The Irrawaddy that after coordinated attacks against three border police outposts in Maungdaw district by Muslim militants on Oct. 9 and ensuing government security operationsresulting in thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs)the ANP in Sittwe led by Aung Than Wai organized a fundraising campaign for Arakanese IDPs which received at least 10 million kyats. Aung Than Wai allegedly embezzled eight million kyats instead of contributing the money to IDPs. The party steering committee received complaint letters from the ground. The partys top leaders established an investigation committee in order to examine the misconduct of ANPs secretary in Sittwe. Khine Pyay Soe confirmed the dispute and explained the party faced internal division over Aung Than Wais alleged corruption. He took eight million for his personal matter instead of donating to IDPs. But malpractice member Aung Than Wai refused to accept the investigation, he said. Khine Pyay Soe recalled that Aung Than Wia also misused party funds from ANP lawmakers without informing a 25-member township level committee. Aung Than Wai also discretely removed township level committee members who were elected at the party conference. The Irrawaddy phoned another meeting attendee, ANP Union parliament lawmaker U Ba Shein, who said the steering committee expelled the township-level secretary for breaching the partys rules and regulations and declining to consider internal friction as well financial abuses within party. Lower level party members must obey the decisions of the central committee whether they like it or not, he said. Sittwe resident Aung Ko Moe who requested peaceful assembly permission from authorities and was granted to march on Tuesday afternoon, accused secretary Tun Aung Kyaw and disciplinary committee chair Khine Pyay Soe of trying to separate the party and called for their dismissal in a Facebook post. The post featured protest slogans such as: We dont accept the separatist agenda against the ANP and The disintegrators of the ANP is our enemy. Organizer Aung Ko Moe uploaded an apology letter from Sittwe ANPs chairman Aye Thein for insulting Aung Than Wai in early 2017 regarding financial abuses. The document mentioned the partys financial report but did not mention the IDP fund. According to the document, Aye Thein testified that his party had already received the township-level financial report when he erroneously insulted Aung Than Wai in 2016. Aung Than Wai filed the case against Aye Thein under Myanmars notorious telecommunication law Article 66(d). The case avoided going to court after Aye Thein sent the apology letter, resigned from the CEC and ANP Sittwe and Aung Than Wai withdrew case, according to an ANP committee member who asked for anonymity. Aung Than Wai and secretary Tun Aung Kyaw could not be reached by The Irrawaddy. Tuesday, Oct 17th, 2017 (1:55 pm) - Score 6,597 Europol, which helps the 28 member states of the EU (inc. UK) to fight serious international crime and terrorism, has called on broadband and mobile providers to end the use of Carrier Grade NAT (CGN) in order to increase accountability online and stop people sharing the same IP address as a criminal. Generally everybody needs an Internet Protocol (IP) address to go online and your ISP is responsible for assigning one to your connection (its the internet equivalent of a phone number). Most fixed line ISPs tend to use Dynamic IP addresses for domestic connectivity, which changes each time your broadband link is disconnected and isnt shared with other subscribers (not at the same time youre using it). Some providers will also allow you to take a Static IP address, which remains the same no matter how many times you switch the connection on and off (usually more of a premium / business feature). However the shift from the old IPv4 (ran out of spare addresses) to newer IPv6 addressing system has caused some providers, which dont have a large stockpile of IPv4s, to adopt Carrier Grade Network Address Translation (CGN). CGNAT enables a single IP address to be shared between many users and is thus seen by some ISPs as a useful solution for IPv4 shortages (e.g. Hyperoptic use it and BT / other ISPs have toyed with it), at least until IPv6 is fully implemented (this will take years). Now there are many reasons to dislike CGNAT, most of which stem from the fact that it can disrupt certain internet services, such as those that expect each individual to have their own IP. For example, CGNAT can cause connectivity problems for some multiplayer games and it may also prevent a login to other services, such as if two users are trying to connect from the same IP (security check). Likewise if an online survey restricts votes by IP address then you could find yourself excluded if somebody votes from the same address. Similarly if another user with your IP is banned from a service.. you get the picture. However we should say that a properly maintained and well configure CGNAT setup can still work quite well and often you wont even know it exists. Never the less Europol and the Estonian Presidency of the EU Council are concerned that CGNAT can also disrupt the ability of law enforcement to correctly identify criminals. Rob Wainwright, Europols Executive Director, said: CGN technology has created a serious online capability gap in law enforcement efforts to investigate and attribute crime. It is particularly alarming that individuals who are using mobile phones to connect to the internet to facilitate criminal activities cannot be identified because 90% of mobile internet access providers have adopted a technology which prevents them from complying with their legal obligations to identify individual subscribers. On behalf of the European law enforcement community Europol is grateful to the Estonian Presidency of the EU Council for actively exploring ways to address this urgent problem with stakeholders in the EU and industry. Europol states that the number of subscribers sharing a single IP has increased in recent years (in some cases thousands of users can share one address) and it has thus become technically impossible for ISPs to comply with legal orders to identify individual subscribers. This is relevant as in criminal investigations an IP address is often the only information that can link a crime to an individual (this seems to ignore the merits of traditional evidence gathering). The EU policing agency also fears that CGNAT may lead to innocent individuals being wrongly investigated by law enforcement because they share their IP address with several thousand others potentially including criminals. Admittedly there is a certain irony to this, not least with respect to new laws that seek to cast IP addresses as personal information (despite them being so unreliable at accurately identifying a specific person). However simply calling for an end to CGNAT seems to overlook one of the key reasons why the technology exists. How do Europol propose to solve the issue of IPv4 address shortages for those with CGN? An ISP cant adopt a native IPv6-only network, not until such time as the vast majority of internet connected hardware and software is ready for it (this is not going to happen for a long time), otherwise a big chunk of the online world would become inaccessible. Europol are consulting industry experts (Proximus, CISCO, ISOC, the IPv6 Company etc.) in order to try and find a solution. One option is a Voluntary Code of Conduct for ISPs to reduce the use of CGNs, while another solution might involve ISPs being required to log source port numbers or the possibility to adopt regulations to increase IPv6 deployment. The latter would be more productive but upgrading the industry is only half the battle; you cant leave end-users with old IPv4-only systems isolated (until recently a lot of modern hardware and software still shipped as IPv4-only). At least the hunt for a solution to such a tedious issue should be very entertaining. Tuesday, Oct 17th, 2017 (5:38 pm) - Score 2,262 Nokia says they will become the first to demonstrate a hybrid Wireless Passive Optical Network (PON) solution at the Broadband World Forum in Berlin, which can offer up to 1Gbps broadband speeds to homes by harnessing both an optical fibre network and WiGigs 60GHz wireless standard (802.11ad). The mix sounds like a different take on existing Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) solutions. Nokia says the units can be easily mounted to telegraph poles, street lights or a building facade. The solution uses beamforming to bring connections of up to 1Gbps to Nokia WPON home units located up to 300 meters away on the outside of a building or home. The technology also has the ability to connect multiple access points in a row or create a meshed network. Nokia says operators can now bring fibre to a street corner or neighbourhood instead of a building and avoid the costs of adding subscribers. We should point out that the WiGig standard can push data rates of up to 8Gbps, although the 60GHz band makes it very susceptible to distance and interference. Julie Kunstler, Ovum Principal Analyst, said: The push for broadband connectivity in underserved and remote rural areas, and the need to fill gaps in urban and suburban wireline broadband coverage, are creating renewed interest in the use of fixed wireless access (FWA). Solutions like Nokias WPON help operators competitively service target areas, whether in urban, suburban or rural locations. With Nokias WPON, operators can quickly connect new subscribers and easily transition them to higher-value FTTP-based services in the future. Federico Guillen, President of Nokias Fixed Networks Group, said: Multi-technology strategies are key to helping operators quickly roll out new ultra-broadband services to more people. Leveraging advancements made in todays wireless technologies, were demonstrating how operators can use a wireless drop alternative to effectively deliver fiber-like speeds to customers. Nokias new Wireless PON solution will introduce FTTx options that operators can use to enhance the way customers experience their broadband services. With a strong portfolio across all FTTx technologies including fiber, DSL, cable and wireless, Nokia has the experience it takes to deliver these multi-technology broadband networks and make the business case work. Nokia is also working to bring several other FWA technologies to the market, such as FastMile and 5G to the Home. The company intends to fully demonstrate and showcase their WPON solution at the Nokia Booth (E104) during the Broadband World Forum in Berlin between October 24-26th. Tuesday, Oct 17th, 2017 (11:36 am) - Score 2,973 The Chief Executive of the UK telecoms regulator, Sharon White, has told a cross-party committee of MPs that a key test of Ofcoms new regulatory approach to BT will be whether or not Openreach can do a co-investment deal with another operator following their full fibre broadband consultation. Earlier this year Ofcom reached a voluntary agreement with BT (here), which among other changes brought about the legal separation of Openreach from the telecoms giant and the establishment of a new framework for the next decade of broadband regulation in the United Kingdom (e.g. easier access to Openreachs existing cable ducts and cheaper FTTC superfast broadband). Since then Openreach has begun consulting on their aspiration for a wide-scale deployment of full fibre (FTTP/H) broadband, possibly to as many as 10 million premises by around 2025, which Vodafone is understood to have taken a strong interest in (here). Last week the regulator told an inquiry by the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee that a key test for Openreachs new independence would be whether or not they could do such a deal over the coming months. Sharon White, Ofcoms CEO, said: I would also say a key test over the next few months is: does Openreach manage to do a co-investment deal with another operator for some of these very fast services? I think that will be a key success criterion as to whether the new model is working in practice. We should point out that Sharon wasnt specifically referencing residential connectivity here. Sharon later added that Ofcom was very directly holding Openreach to the fire and they would further judge the success of their reform by whether we get the new investment and whether we see over time quality of service starting to improve. In fairness, Openreach has a good track record when it comes to meeting Ofcoms Quality of Service targets, although were still waiting for something more on the investment front than their existing hybrid-fibre G.fast commitment to 10 million premises by 2020, plus 2 million covered by full fibre ultrafast FTTP broadband. Openreachs industry focused FTTP consultation concluded last month and outcome should come soon-ish. The committee also spent quite a lot of time discussing the Universal Service Obligation (USO) proposal for a 10Mbps minimum broadband speed, which didnt produce too many surprises but there was one exchange where we got the impression that Ofcom is perhaps expecting the Governments Secretary of State and BT to reach a voluntary agreement (as proposed here); as opposed to a mandatory one being imposed on BT with stiffer requirements. Damian Collins (Chair) Conservative: Are you not concerned that a USO deal might fall foul of just those same problems there whereby a condition that a USO will be an amount of money, which BT say they need to deliver the completion of the network, that money will be recouped through peoples bills, maybe even starting before the rollout itself has started, and that you as the regulator may not have the power to unpick that deal once the Government have agreed to it? Sharon White (Ofcom): We will see what the nature of the deal is. Our initial estimates suggestand we do not have absolutely firm numbersthat these are not huge sums of money for the USO in terms of additional prices because the money is spread over the lifetime of the asset, which is about 20 years. In the first instance, we are looking at the first three years of that. We will see. Once the Secretary of State and BT have reached an agreement, we can then take on board only those costs that we deem to be reasonable, so they will be our estimates, not BTs estimates. Sharon also promised that if a voluntary deal is reached then Ofcom would still examine in detail what BT claims its cost are and what we believe are appropriate costs to be recovered it will be a robust process. The regulator was similarly challenged on the question of whether or not handing such a deal to BT would give the operator a dominant position and leave everyone else being squeezed out. As we already know, the big problem is that nobody else (excluding KCOM in Hull) has come forward to take on the significant legal and financial responsibility of delivering such a USO, either across the UK or only in specific areas. Sharon White said: It is interesting. The Committee may remember that under the previous Secretary of State we were asked to test the market a couple of years ago precisely on this point to see whether there might be some competition or some choice of providers. At that stage, we were reasonably hopeful because 10 megabits per second would allow you to bring in a mobile operator to do wireless for the last mile. As it turned out, the only interest from our expressions of interest on behalf of the Government was from BT. Because we are a competition authority and we think competition drives investment and drives better choice and lower prices for consumers, it would have been great to have been in a position where there was another operator interested. We looked at that process very carefully and the board saw the results of this, and it was only BT that said, We are interested in delivering this for the Government Finally, the committee also touched on Ofcoms somewhat divisive 2017 Wholesale Local Access Market Review, which among other things has proposed to reduce the wholesale cost of Openreachs popular 40Mbps (10Mbps upload) FTTC (VDSL2) broadband tier for consumers (here and here). Some ISPs, such as TalkTalk and Sky Broadband, welcome this change (cheaper packages etc.), while infrastructure builders (Virgin Media, Gigaclear etc.) are perhaps rightly concerned that by making FTTC so cheap Ofcom are running the risk of discouraging investment in new or alternative / faster networks (i.e. theres less reason to spend more on an ultrafast FTTP, Cable or G.fast service). Ofcom say its difficult to get the balance right. Ian C. Lucas (Labour): But the fibre investors are not very happy with your wholesale local access review. You have had a letter, havent you, from Sharon White: I get lots of letters all the time. Ian C. Lucas (Labour): Well, they say that your proposals will stall fibre infrastructure investment, and it is signed by lots of chief executives. Sharon White: Lots of people, and I should show you the other letters Ian C. Lucas (Labour): Well, okay, some companies you might have heard of: Openreach, Virgin Media, Gigaclear, techUK. What is your response to that? Sharon White: It is worth giving a little bit of background. The particular decision to take it as a proposal at this stage is how much money we allow BT to charge its wholesale customers for superfast broadband. We are balancing keeping enough money in the system to incentivise investment without, to be frank, screwing the consumer. We are taking an approach that we took with superfast broadband, which is we want to allow BT the incentive to invest in these really fast networks, the 100 Megabits per second, the stuff that we are lagging behind, but on standard superfast broadband we reckon that BT has more than recouped its investment to the degree that if we did not impose what we call a charge control, ie some cap, BT would make excess profits of another billion pounds. Consumers would be worse off by about another 26. We are trying to balance, as always, how we ensure there is enough ability to flex your pricing, because it is risky for these very fast networks, without essentially ripping off the consumer. Those who depend on the BT network obviously like the low prices. Those who are building new networks would like us to put even more money in the system. We are weighing all those letters from a range of chief executives and lots of other comments over the next few months. Dame Patricia Hodgson (Ofcom Chair): Sharon has had letters from other operators, like Sky Broadband and TalkTalk, who say, You are absolutely right to address the cost for the consumer of superfast because what we need to do is to build demand, which then translates through to demand for a faster fibre connection. It is a difficult balance, isnt it? On the whole Sharon White concluded by saying that she felt as if the early signs of Openreachs progress on implementing all of the regulators required changes are reasonably positive. Project Wing, an initiative of Alphabet, the parent company of Google, is testing the ability of its drone technology to make deliveries directly to residences on the border of the ACT and NSW. The people involved in the testing are alpaca farmers, academics, equestrians and artists and their feedback has been helping Project Wing refine its technology. Mexican foodchain Guzman y Gomez and pharmacy group Chemist Warehouse have joined the trial and will receive orders from the testers who buy from them using the Project Wing app on their smartphones. The residents who live on the outskirts of the ACT are about 40 minutes from a shopping centre and as such delivering goods to their doorsteps was a sorely felt need. by James Ryan Burgess, a co-lead of Project Wing, said one major need was to train the systems to reliably identify safe and convenient locations. "We have to incorporate customer preferences e.g. many of our testers would like packages delivered to backyards so theyre not visible from the road, or near kitchens so food items can be unpacked quickly. And we have to be ready to accommodate changing conditions at the delivery location," Burgess wrote. A wing delivery drone flying over Queanbeyan. Additionally, Project Wing needed to be able to pick up packages from anyone and any location. In the case of Guzman y Gomez, there was a need to learn how much notice needed to be given for a drone arrival. Burgess said that partnering with Chemist Warehouse would help the project learn how to handle packages of various sizes. "We know the weeks and months ahead will be filled with unexpected challenges as we undertake these new tests. Were grateful to the communities in the ACT and Queanbeyan regions whove let us into their yards, so we can learn even more about building a delivery network ready to fly in the open skies," he said. Photos: courtesy Project Wing French-owned global cloud computing company, OVH, has been in the news several times this year, from buying VMWare's vCloud Air business, to supporting start-ups, issuing an SSD and NVMe white paper and even holding its 2017 Cloud Summit as I type. OVH. It is a global cloud computing company "offering services in the public cloud, hybrid cloud, storage and back-up, network and security solution, virtual cloud desktop, domain names, hosting, Plesk, email, a range of servers and more". The company's credentials are solid, boasting a presence on five continents, providing digital, innovative and secure infrastructure, adapted to professionals, start-ups, small and large companies and large accounts, with more than 1 million customers in 138 countries, over 18 million Web applications hosted, nearly four million domain names, 260,000 servers, 22 data centres in 19 countries, and counting itself as the number three global Internet hosting company. Back in April, OVH acquired VMWare's enterprise hybrid cloud offering dubbed "vCloud Air", and renamed the service vCloud Air Powered by OVH. Then in late June, OVH announced its Digital Launch Pad (DLP) programme in Australia , providing free cloud computing resources for start-ups ranging from $1000 to $100,000 (per start-up). The company is even hosting its OVH Summit Paris as I type, with the 2016 event able to be watched on replay, and no doubt the 2017 event on right now due to be able to be replayed shortly, too. So, when a data centre company publishes a free white paper on SSDs, NVMes and their reliability, in conjunction with Intel, this will be of clear interest to relevant parties. As you're likely aware, whether you're into data centres or not, storage has been a bottleneck in data centres for many applications over the last few years, with SSDs and other forms of flash memory tech going a long way to dramatically improve performance. OVH notes that SSDs "are playing an ever more important role in server and application architectures and they have advanced to fill the performance gap between compute and storage, but theyre not all created equal". The thing is that, just as is the case in the consumer market, SSDs vary greatly, so the importance of choosing wisely cannot be overstated. Global cloud Infrastructure-as-a-Service provider OVH says there are "important differences in performance, reliability, and consistency that are driven by their physical semiconductor design, controller architecture, and firmware". Indeed, it should come as no surprise to learn that IT decision makers need to be aware that these differences: Impact user experiences; Compromise data protection and reliability; and Impact the effectiveness and efficiencies in cloud service offerings. With OVH constantly looking for the highest performance for its Cloud, the company naturally states that "what is really critical is quality of service and consistently high performance over time". Thus, together with Intel, OVH commissioned a whitepaper looking at why some SSDs and NVMe storage are better suited for enterprise mission-critical applications and use cases, such as databases from their semiconductor technology evolution to the firmware that drives them. As you'd expect, the free whitepaper (after free registration) provides background for service providers and their customers to enable them to wisely make the right SSD choices. OVH has made its whitepaper freely downloadable here. Once you click the link, you'll see the form appear after a few moments allowing you to enter in your details and email address, after which a link to OVH and Intel's detailed 25-page PDF report will be emailed to you. So, if you want to ensure you make solid decisions when it comes to the state of your storage, OVH's free report should help you make the hard decisions on which drives you'll choose to use. Good luck! The US Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal by the government against the verdict in a case where Microsoft had obtained a ruling allowing it to prevent the government accessing emails stored on a server in Ireland. Reuters reported that the court would hear the appeal by the Trump administration against a ruling by a lower court last year. A ruling is due by the end of June 2018. In July 2016, the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit based in New York reversed a decision by a Southern District of New York court which had held Microsoft in contempt of court for refusing to hand over the customer emails. And in January, the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, in a 4-4 decision, refused to rehear an appeal of its own decision. The Department of Justice said in its appeal that the lower court ruling gravely threatens public safety and national security because it limits the governments ability to ward off terrorism and similar national security threats and to investigate and prosecute crimes". Google is fighting a similar case in which it has received a contrasting ruling. The company was served a search warrant in July last year and ordered to turn over email stored abroad, which the US said it needed for a federal investigation into wire fraud. Google contested the warrant, citing the Microsoft case. Major Aussie telco Amaysim recently added NBN to its portfolio, and has now gracefully delivered the electrifying news that it has "amazingly simple" electricity plans, too. Amaysim has announced the illuminating launch of its new energy plans, as the company delivers on its "multi vertical strategy" spanning mobile, broadband and energy. As you can imagine, Amaysim says its energy plans offer "great value, are easy to understand and reflect the businesss amazingly simple proposition". Energy also means more than just electricity, we're talking electricity, gas and solar as you'll see from some of the "fast facts" Amaysim provided below. Great value pricing and substantial discounts on both usage and supply; Discounts that don't expire; Some of Australias best solar feed-in tariffs; No lock-in contracts; Simple monthly billing; The ability to switch energy providers online in four simple steps; and Supported by award-winning service. Stating its "simple energy plans are transparent and convenient", we're told they offer customers: The company states these features will "help cut through the unnecessary complexity of choosing an energy provider and empower consumers to get on with living their lives". And, for those wondering, we're told that "switching to Amaysims energy plans is easy and once with Amaysim, energy customers will have access to the companys award-winning customer service and industry-leading customer experience". Amaysim chief executive Julian Ogrin said: What matters to Australian consumers is clear they want simplicity, convenience and great value from their energy retailer, and they dont want any surprises. Amaysim is the new kid on the block in energy and we are applying our amazingly simple proposition in the same way we did in the telco space. With 93% of our mobile customers saying they would recommend Amaysim to their family and friends, we aim to translate this positive experience to our new energy customers." "As part of our launch, Amaysim customers who sign up to an energy plan will receive an exclusive $250 energy account credit or $120 off their mobile bill so they can realise even greater benefits for their household. Dominic Drenen, who is in charge of Amaysims energy business, added: After successfully integrating online energy retailer Click Energy into the Amaysim Group, we have been able to expedite bringing Amaysim energy plans to the market. Australians increasingly want to reduce their household expenses, and for many, energy costs are at the core of that ambition. Amaysim is the most exciting new entrant in the Australian retail energy market in the last 10 years. Here are some fast facts concerning Amaysim's energy plans: Special launch offer with discounts of up to 40% Standard discounts: Electricity: New South Wales: 35% discount off electricity usage and supply charges. South Australia: 28% discount off electricity usage and supply charges. Victoria: 31% discount off electricity usage and supply charges. Queensland: 15% discount off electricity usage and supply charges. Gas: New South Wales: 13% discount off gas usage and supply charges. Victoria: 21% discount off gas usage and supply charges. Solar: New South Wales: 25% discount and 17 cents retailer feed-in tariff. South Australia: 28% discount and 20 cents retailer feed-in tariff. Victoria: 14% discount and 18 cents retailer feed-in tariff. Queensland: 7% discount and 14 cents retailer feed-in tariff. These fast facts are current as of 17 October. The publisher of the WikiLeaks whistleblower website, Julian Assange, has hit out at 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton for saying he was, to a large extent, responsible for her loss to Donald Trump. Assange said that the ABC, which ran an interview with Clinton by a senior staffer, Sarah Ferguson, on Monday night on the ABC's Four Corners programme, had not offered him a right of reply. We have no record of such a request but regardless its pre-dates your Hillary Clinton interview by weeks and cannot be a right of reply to it. It is deceptive to suggest otherwise. Julian Assange ? (@JulianAssange) 16 October 2017 Clinton described Assange as "a nihilistic opportunist" and "a tool of Russian intelligence". When Four Corners producer Sally Neighbour responded, saying that Assange had been offered an interview on 19 September and he had not responded, Assange shot back: "We have no record of such a request but regardless it pre-dates your Hillary Clinton interview by weeks and cannot be a right of reply to it. It is deceptive to suggest otherwise." Surprisingly, the interview ran in a slot allocated to a programme that is touted as the ABC's prime investigative production. But there was nothing investigative in the interview; rather, it was a soft exchange, which was extremely surprising given that Ferguson is known to be hard-nosed when it comes to such encounters. But last night, Ferguson did not even once challenge assertions made by Clinton even as she blamed everyone in sight for her defeat apart from herself. No wonder Australian state TV @ABCTV @4corners broke their code of conduct for Hillary Clinton. Look at the extreme unprofessionality of the tax payer funded 'executive producer' behind it. Pathetic. https://t.co/1M4nbmt4hy pic.twitter.com/b5yuBx4aTZ Julian Assange ? (@JulianAssange) 16 October 2017 Exactly why the ABC which loves to claim that it is the one network that concentrates on hard news chose to interview Clinton who is basically yesterday's news is unknown. The interview was touted as the first interview with Clinton by an Australian network. But then who else is lining up to interview a failed candidate who is still in denial about her loss? The ABC also tried to push the interview as an exclusive but there was nothing exclusive about it as Clinton traversed well-worn paths, blaming former FBI chief James Comey, misogyny. sexism, Trump and WikiLeaks for her defeat. WikiLeaks has a pristine record for accuracy. HRC is not a credible person. The primary cause of her downfall was her own Machiavellian scheme to elevate Mr. Trump ("Pied Piper"). Our last Russian expose was three weeks ago. https://t.co/MGa1z99vVU https://t.co/He4vgLIKBW Julian Assange ? (@JulianAssange) October 15, 2017 Clinton has already made numerous media appearances to push her book, What Happened, beginning on 30 June when she was interviewed by Walt Mossberg and Kara Swisher of The Verge. All these interviews are easily available online for anyone who cares to watch, so the ABC was not providing anything that is not accessible to those Australians who actually wish to see Clinton chew the same cud again and again. ASX-listed medical technology company Respiri has appointed former Pfizer global executive Mario Gattino as its chief executive ahead of an expected launch of a medical device in 2018. Gattino (below, right) spent 20 years with Pfizer and served as chief operating officer and regional business director responsible for operational issues in 10 Northern European countries. He also held the position of country chief executive in Hungary. The company said in a statement that Gattino had "a strong track record of commercialising drugs and medical devices around the world". Respiri expects to bring to market next year a handheld Bluetooth-enabled device, AirSonea, that allows asthma sufferers to measure the degree of wheezing in their lungs. This would help predict asthma attacks. The device syncs to a smartphone and is claimed to be particularly useful to parents with young asthmatic kids. Gattino last role was as vice-president and general manager (ANZ) for Ikaria, a drug/medical device company, where he turned around the Australia and New Zealand business and spearheaded an expansion into APAC. Gattino has also been managing director for Perrigo ANZ, a company that makes consumer healthcare products, and was the key adviser to an in-vitro diagnostic start-up where he developed its global commercialisation strategy and successfully raised capital. Respiri chairman Leon LHuillier said: Respiri is very fortunate to attract someone of Marios standing. He is ideally suited to lead the company into its commercialisation phase as we look to launch AirSonea in a number of key markets next year. We welcome him to our team. Your favourite tech reseller is presumably set to let you know about Brother's range of products as the company offers resellers a chance at winning adrenaline-pumping thrilling rewards. When you reach 40, which is half of many people's lives, some have a mid-life crisis, but Brother is celebrating instead with a mid-life extravaganza including a rewards programme for its resellers. The programme isn't open to the general public, as it is a partner rewards programme, but with many resellers out there who will presumably want to take part, you'll know why you might suddenly be hearing a lot more about Brother if you're newly in the market for one of the products it sells. So, in celebration of Brother International Australias 40th Birthday, the company is thanking its valued partners with some "adrenaline pumping, insanity-generating and thrill-producing extreme rewards" with a once in a lifetime "Midlife Extravaganza". The promotion is part of Brother's "At Your Side Partner Programme", which will run from 2 October until 24 November, and allows resellers to "sign up and purchase Brother hardware through authorised distributors for the chance to earn entries into various prize draws". Resellers who are already At Your Side partners "will automatically be included in the promotion and can simply log in to the new At Your Side Partner Portal to can keep track of sales and entries on the front page of the portal". The portal displays your current sales for the month, and reflects the total entries received for Brothers Midlife Extravaganza to date. And, in addition to accessing all information for the promotion, "partners can also use the newly launched Partner Portal for everything else they could ever need from Brother International Australia including brochures, sales tools, whitepapers, case studies, news, tech support, product and price lists and a hub of sales tools". Prizes are divided into four adrenaline-pumping tiers; Extreme, Insane, Crazy and Thrilling. The more partners purchase, the more entries they receive, and the greater the prize they could win. Extreme: For every $10,000 ex-GST of Brother hardware purchased each month, resellers receive one entry into the draw. With a substantial $10,000 monthly spend, partners will be in the draw to win a cruise (departing from an Australian port), an outrageous Sea Doo Jetski or even a motorbike, taking extreme to the next level! Insane: For every $5000 ex-GST of Brother hardware purchased each month, resellers receive one entry into the draw. Partners who want a little more rush through the system would be pleased to know that they may be in the running to win a sky diving experience for two. Also considering those who enjoy luxurious experiences, the Insane draw gives the chance to win a scenic helicopter ride with lunch for two, rent a super car for a day, or better yet, go all out with a shopping spree on Brother! Crazy: For every $2500 ex-GST of Brother hardware purchased each month, resellers receive one entry into the draw. For those who have a need for speed, perhaps a rally car racing for one or Harley tour for two will do the trick. In with the mix is also the chance to win a flight lesson or an Adrenaline.com voucher! Thrilling: For every $1000 ex-GST of Brother hardware purchased each month, resellers receive one entry into the draw. Up for grabs is an Adrenaline.com voucher to satisfy all thrill seekers, a Harley tour for one, or, experience the excitement of water with surf lessons or Jetboating for two! Brother explains that the more resellers purchase, the more chances there are to earn entries. An example given is with $15,000 ex-GST purchased, "partners receive 1 Extreme entry, 3 Insane entries, 6 Crazy entries and 15 Thrilling entries." Draws will take place on 2 November and 30 November. Participants are only eligible to win one prize per month. The promotion period runs from 2 October to 24 November. So, if you're suddenly hearing more about Brother from your favourite reseller, now you know why. It might also spur you to try negotiating a better deal given that resellers who participate will want to get as many entries as possible, so as they say, knowledge is power, and having a great printer you can rely on is pretty powerful, too! Microsoft has already issued patches that fix the vulnerability in the WPA2 protocol disclosed by Belgian researcher Mathy Vanhoef overnight. The software giant said the patch was included in the patches it issued as part of its monthly Tuesday updates. In a statement to Windows Central, the company said: "Microsoft released security updates on 10 October and customers who have Windows Update enabled and applied the security updates, are protected automatically. "We updated to protect customers as soon as possible, but as a responsible industry partner, we withheld disclosure until other vendors could develop and release updates." Thepotentially puts all Wi-Fi devices at risk though crafting an attack is not easy. Apple has patched the flaw in beta versions of iOS, tvOS, watchOS and macOS. This means that the patches will take some time to trickle down to users, unless they update to the betas. Google has said it will release patches for vulnerable Android versions on 6 November. Multiple Cisco devices are vulnerable and the company has released a detailed advisory about updates. The flaw has been discussed behind the scenes since May this year and as a result some companies already have patches for their implementations of WPA2. A list of vendors that are affected and not affected is here. In a statement, the Wi-Fi Alliance, a network of companies that provides wireless connectivity, claimed there was no evidence that the vulnerability had been exploited maliciously. "Wi-Fi Alliance has taken immediate steps to ensure users can continue to count on Wi-Fi to deliver strong security protections. Wi-Fi Alliance now requires testing for this vulnerability within our global certification lab network and has provided a vulnerability detection tool for use by any Wi-Fi Alliance member," it said. "Wi-Fi Alliance is also broadly communicating details on this vulnerability and remedies to device vendors and encouraging them to work with their solution providers to rapidly integrate any necessary patches. As always, Wi-Fi users should ensure they have installed the latest recommended updates from device manufacturers." A new Adobe Flash zero-day exploit that works through a Microsoft Office document and delivers the latest version of the FinSpy malware as its final payload has been identified by security vendor Kaspersky Lab. The company said the number of attacks by this advanced persistent threat appeared to be minimal and highly targeted judging by the fact that it had noticed just a single attack in its customer base. Researcher Anton Ivanov carried out the research on the exploit. After analysing the payload, Kaspersky said that it was able to confidently pin the attack on a group known as BlackOasis. FinSpy aka FinFisher is surveillance software marketed by Lench IT Solutions, which sells it through law enforcement channels. It is "weaponised German surveillance malware used by intelligence agencies around the world to spy on journalists, political dissidents and others", according to WikiLeaks which revealed details of the spyware in 2014. Kaspersky said it had first become aware of BlackOasis and its activities in May 2016 in the processing of investigating another zero-day exploit in Flash. It said that in the case of the recent exploit, the attack began by an Office document delivered presumably by email. An ActiveX object embedded in the document contained the Flash exploit. This exploit was a memory corruption vulnerability; if successful, it would gain arbitrary read/write permissions in memory allowing the execution of second-stage shellcode. The second-stage shellcode then did the following: Downloaded the final payload (FinSpy) from hxxp://89.45.67[.]107/rss/mo.exe; Downloaded a lure document to display to the victim from the same IP; and Executed the payload and display the lure document. As to targeting and victims, Kaspersky said BlackOasis interests spanned figures involved in Middle Eastern politics and verticals disproportionately relevant to the region. "This includes prominent figures in the United Nations, opposition bloggers and activists, and regional news correspondents. During 2016, we observed a heavy interest in Angola, exemplified by lure documents indicating targets with suspected ties to oil, money laundering, and other illicit activities. There is also an interest in international activists and think-tanks," the company said. "Victims of BlackOasis have been observed in the following countries: Russia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Libya, Jordan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, the Netherlands, Bahrain, the UK and Angola." While the flaw in the WPA2 protocol reported overnight compromises wireless networks, point-to-point encryption between devices and websites or applications should still be secure, a senior technology professional says. Ian Yip, McAfees chief technology officer for APAC, said: This is a developing issue, so we expect more information as the week progresses. Based on what we know so far, this exploit requires an attacker to be in the proximity of the wireless device or network in question, which reduces the risk somewhat." Belgian researcher Mathy Vanhoef of imec-DistriNet, KU Leuven, who found the flaw said that attackers within range of a victim could exploit these weaknesses using key reinstallation attacks (KRACKs). (A detailed paper on the flaws is here.) Added Yip: "For example, an attacker cannot use this exploit to compromise a wireless network or device from an indeterminate location halfway across the world." But he said the flaw was significant in that there was no readily available alternative, uncompromised protocol to use on a local wireless network until patches were deployed. "We should note that while the exploit compromises wireless networks, point-to-point encryption between devices and websites or applications should still be secure." In the meantime, Yip advised people to use physically connected wired access points where available. "In the event you have to use a wireless network, behave as you would when using a public Internet connection. Risks can be further mitigated by ensuring you access all websites over HTTPS where available, and use VPNs at all times," he added. Rodney Joffe, senior vice-president, senior technologist and fellow at real-time information and analytics firm Neustar, said: "The rumours started on Friday and we saw details late on Saturday. It is as bad as being portrayed. It does not only affect mobile devices of course. At 10am Cisco released its warning about Cisco devices that are vulnerable." He said that even though the researcher who discovered the vulnerability had followed the appropriate guidelines for responsible disclosure, few manufacturers had been able to develop a patch or even a workaround. "From the CISCO notification: Multiple Cisco wireless products are affected by these vulnerabilities. Cisco will release software updates that address these vulnerabilities. There is a workaround that addresses the vulnerability in CVE-2017-13082. There are no workarounds that address the other vulnerabilities described in this advisory." "This is a big deal, he added. Brian Knopf, senior director of Security Research, IoT Architect, Red Team, at Neustar, said: This is going to be a significant exploit as it will take years for the WPA2 protocol to be fixed and even then, much longer for devices to be updated with newer versions. VPN may help in some cases, but there are even exploits for VPN that could be chained together with KRACK. Bobby Kuzma, systems engineer at security company Core Security, said: First off, this isn't the WPA2 crypto being cracked. This is taking advantage of a logic error in the protocol that's used to handshake to establish the connection." He said this was not "a ZOMG WIRELESS IS INSECURE moment". "Wireless has only been as good as the keys and crypto that protect it. The crypto is still good. It's the key handling that's flawed. "I'm pleased to see a number of manufacturers already deploying patches to address this. I'm also deeply concerned about the huge numbers of 'orphaned' and ignored Wi-Fi-capable devices out there that won't receive patches. "The underlying research that identified the state machine flaws is innovative. These won't be the last findings from that group. More than four years after Microsoft's internal bug-tracking database was hacked, details have emerged about the incident, only the second known break-in of such a database, via five ex-workers. Reuters reported that the company said nothing about the scale of the attack after it came to light in 2013. But Microsoft refused to speak about it even now, the report said. "Our security teams actively monitor cyber threats to help us prioritise and take appropriate action to keep customers protected, was all that the company would say. The database that was penetrated contained rundowns of critical and unfixed flaws in Microsoft's software. These flaws were likely to have been fixed within months of the break-in. The five ex-employees and US officials who were told of the breach said that, at the time, there were fears that the stolen data could have been used to create attack tools. Microsoft hasin place for handling vulnerabilities and the whole thing is managed by its security response centre. The MSRC is a core team consisting of a number of program managers, each of whom focuses on a specific technical area. Reuters quoted Eric Rosenbach, who was US deputy assistant secretary of defence for cyber at the time, as saying: Bad guys with inside access to that information would literally have [had] a skeleton key for hundreds of millions of computers around the world. The one other known breach of a tech company's corporate database occurred in 2015 at the Mozilla Foundation. But in this case, there was complete disclosure by the non-profit foundation who said that one of the flaws in the database was later used to attack users of its Firefox browser. The attackers who breached Microsoft's database also infiltrated Apple, Facebook and Twitter. Known as Morpho, Wild Butterfly and Wild Neutron, the group took advantage of a Java vulnerability to hack into Apple computers and then move into corporate networks. Only a brief statement was put out by Microsoft at the time and this was weeks after the other breaches were reported. As reported by Facebook and Apple, Microsoft can confirm that we also recently experienced a similar security intrusion, the Redmond company said on 22 February 2013. No mention was made of the vulnerability database being accessed by the miscreants. The ex-employees said that the database containing vulnerability and patch tracking information was poorly protected with just a password pr evening entry. One ex-employee told Reuters: They absolutely discovered that bugs had been taken. Whether or not those bugs were in use, I dont think they did a very thorough job of discovering. Australian ecommerce company UltraServe is looking to boost its coffers by $5 million and accelerate its international growth with the launch of a capital raising. The privately-owned company, of which tech entrepreneur Simon Hackett is now the majority shareholder, announced the capital raising on Tuesday in response to what it says was increasing client demand. According to UltraServe which specialises in delivering e-commerce applications in the cloud using its proprietary SmartStack software it is achieving strong international growth having opened its US office in 2016 and a new European office recently. UltraServe chief executive Matthew Hyland said the additional capital would enable the company to accelerate its international expansion and innovation. "We'll use these funds to further our geographic expansion into Europe, to build out our US operations and to accelerate product enhancements," he said. "We established the London office to meet European client demand, and we're increasing our presence in the Chicago office ahead of the release of the next version of our SmartStack software, later this year. "International demand for our services is very strong as demonstrated by the number of new contracts signed with major global customers during the last 12 months, with about three-quarters of these new customers coming from the US and now the European markets. "Our sales pipeline is heavily weighted towards the US market, producing more than 75% of our new customer opportunities, while we've already seen strong interest from the European market despite only opening our office in the UK a few weeks ago. "To date, we've managed to achieve all this through self-funding, via our operating cash flows. By bringing in new capital, we can build on these foundations, accelerate our growth plans, and grab the significant global market opportunity that we see in front of us." According to Hackett, UltraServe had a unique competitive advantage. "UltraServe has created outstanding technology that orchestrates, manages and hosts the deployment of enterprise-level Internet commerce websites," he said. "UltraServe's technology turns a complicated, slow and error-prone manual deployment process for e-commerce participants into a smooth, automated, rapid and reliable experience. SmartStack equips customers to innovate at the speed of their thought processes rather than at the speed of their system administrators." Salesforce is now live on Amazon Web Service's Cloud infrastructure in Australia with the CRM company now touting access to its platform for customers on the AWS Sydney region. Salesforce says Telstra and icare are its first Australian customers to access the Salesforce Customer Success Platform on the AWS Sydney Region, and both customers have partnered with it to help them drive digital transformation in their businesses and get closer to their customers. Telstra Enterprise has partnered with Salesforce to help our team digitally transform the way we serve our enterprise and government customers, said Martijn Blanken, group managing director, Telstra Enterprise. Customer expectations are changing and Salesforce will play a key role in helping us better serve our customers through both face-to-face and digital interactions. This will allow Telstra Enterprise to consistently deliver world class experiences and outcomes for our customers. And Rob Craig, chief operating officer, icare, says icare leverages the Salesforce Customer Success Platform to deliver world-class insurance and care services across NSW. Being one of the first customers in Australia to access Salesforce on the AWS Sydney Region means icare can easily expand upon the way we serve the businesses, people and communities in NSW. According to Randy Kern, executive vice-president Infrastructure Engineering and chief infrastructure officer, Salesforce, Salesforces partnership with AWS allows the company to bring new infrastructure online more quickly and efficiently with one of the most trusted, reliable and resilient public clouds. As the global leader in CRM, we remain focused on enabling companies in Australia and around the world to use Salesforce to transform every customer experience, he said. Mark Innes, executive vice-president and general manager, Salesforce Asia Pacific, says APAC is one of the fastest-growing regions for Salesforce and the growing shift to cloud and demand for digital transformation is driving unprecedented growth for the company in Australia. With the availability of Salesforce on AWS in Australia, were poised to further accelerate innovation, business transformation and success for our customers and partners. Paul Migliorini, managing director, Amazon Web Services Australia and New Zealand, says the availability of Salesforces Customer Success Platform on the AWS Sydney Region is a very significant milestone that will help Australian customers to fully leverage the scale, security and reliability of the AWS Cloud. For high-end smartphone buyers whether you prefer Google's Android or Apple's iOS this may well be the best of times. The iPhone 8 is out, the X arrives in just a few weeks, and the latest device from Google, the Pixel 2, is available now. What's an Android-curious iPhone user to do? Adam Patrick Murray/IDG Pixel 2 XL: Google's marriage of hardware to software to machine-learning. With that question in mind, Computerworld Executive Editor Ken Mingis (a long time Apple dude) and tech reviewer Dan Rosenbaum he also leans Apple take a look at the Pixel 2 XL. Rosenbaum has been using it for a few days and finds it quite the delight. The important thing to remember, at least from an enterprise perspective, is that the Pixel 2 comes with Android 8.0 Oreo, meaning it has the latest updates and security fixes from Google. And that will be the case in the months ahead, since Google devices don't have to wait for carriers to roll out fixes and OS updates sometimes months after they've been released. Aside from that, Rosenbaum says, the Pixel 2 plays well with Oreo, and even its design is a plus. While not as sexy as the latest from Samsung, the Pixel 2 has a brushed aluminum back that seems less likely to slip out of your hand, a luscious OLED display, top-end camera setup, and a speedy 8-core Snapdragon 635. [ To comment on this story, visit Computerworld's Facebook page. ] That combination of features and the price the larger Pixel 2 with 128GB of storage tops out at $949 is almost enough to tempt an iPhone user into making a switch. For an audio podcast only, click play (or catch up on all episodes) below. Or you can now find us on iTunes, where you can download each episode and listen at your leisure. Happy listening, and please, send feedback or suggestions for future topics to us. We'd love to hear from you. Microsoft today released the newest Windows 10 feature upgrade, labeled "Fall Creators Update" and numbered 1709, to consumers and commercial customers. The upgrade was the first since Microsoft revamped its Windows 10 servicing model by pledging to deliver two such updates annually, and changed the release track nomenclature and support timetable. As Microsoft pointed out, some practices have changed in its Windows-10-as-a-service concept. What's in a name? Today's upgrade carries the label "Semi-Annual Channel," a change in nomenclature from Microsoft's previous Current Branch, the release track offered almost exclusively to consumers. To match the naming convention it created for Office 365, Microsoft dropped its Windows 10 release titles Current Branch and Current Branch for Business, and swapped in Semi-Annual Channel for both. Windows 10 1709 is the first feature upgrade to get the Semi-Annual Channel name tag. Jump on it, enterprise! The naming differences are insignificant compared to the advice Microsoft gave enterprises about deployment: Previously, it told corporate customers to steer clear of Current Branch. Instead, they were to wait for Microsoft to give a green light - usually awarded about four months after the launch of Current Branch - indicating the upgrade had been sufficiently tested, mostly by consumers, and now warranted widespread roll-outs by IT. That green light also marked a change in labels, as the upgrade was promoted to the Current Branch for Business channel. Now, Microsoft recommends that all enterprises jump on each Semi-Annual Channel release immediately, at least for a subset of workers. "As soon as that release date happens, begin piloting, begin deploying [the feature upgrade] to a percentage of your organization," Michael Niehaus, director of product marketing for Windows, said in a briefing at the company's Ignite conference three weeks ago. "You want to start right way so you can build up trust, build up confidence, in the release itself." And it's live To make the previous recommendation possible, Microsoft has accelerated the availability of Windows 10 1709 compared to earlier upgrades. "Windows 10, version 1709 will be available on the 17th on all relevant distribution channels: the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC), Windows Update for Business, Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), and Visual Studio Subscriptions," Niehaus wrote in a post to a company blog yesterday. Last spring, Microsoft waited until May 1 to offer Windows 10 1703 (aka Creators Update) to enterprises via the VLSC, for instance. That was about four weeks after 1703 actually arrived. All in one, one for all Microsoft also altered the packaging of the disk images - identified by the .iso filename suffix - for Windows 10 1709. "Instead of having separate media and packages for Windows 10 Pro (volume licensing version), Windows 10 Enterprise, and Windows 10 Education, all three will be bundled together," Niehaus said Monday. "Included in the [.iso] will be a single Windows image (WIM) file that contains all the volume licensing images." Niehaus didn't explain the rationale behind the combined-version disk image, but it was probably due to a relatively new feature in Windows 10, called "Subscription Activation," that debuted in this year's 1703 upgrade. Using Subscription Activation, devices assigned to a user covered by a subscription-based license - including plans such as Windows 10 Enterprise E3 and E5, as well as Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 - are automatically "unlocked" with a log-in, with the operating system transforming from Windows 10 Pro to Windows 10 Enterprise. To do so requires that the underlying image include features of every Windows 10 SKU (stock-selling unit); the license simply unlocks the appropriate set of features. Also perhaps in play: Microsoft added an operating system-change path from Windows 10 Enterprise to Windows 10 Education - using an activation product key - with 1709. Reddit Email 54 Shares TeleSur Macrons visit to Iran would be the first by a French head of state or government since 1976. Widening transatlantic divisions are coming into focus as traditional U.S. allies are recoiling at U.S. President Donald Trumps attempts to undermine the nuclear deal with Iran. The divide was underscored Sunday as French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that Trump disregarded his allies advice and pursued a bad policy on Iran. He wants to toughen up with Iran, that is what he declared on Friday, Macron told reporters in a broad-ranging interview. I told him that it was, in my opinion, a bad way of doing things because we have to look at Korea, we broke off talks with Korea. What is the outcome? We are waking up some years later with a Korea that is about to have a nuclear weapon. A trip to Iran by the president, at the invitation of President Rouhani, has been considered, the Elysee said, while the Iranian presidential website said the visit would happen next year. Macron said the US decision will not put an end to the Iranian nuclear accord and that together all the parties in France and its European partners will continue to meet their commitments. Rouhani assured Macron that Iran in turn will continue to carry out its commitments in the nuclear accord, the Elysee said. The French leader added that it was also necessary to have a dialogue with Iran on other strategic issues including Tehrans ballistic missile programme and stability in the region. Macron also spoke to Rouhani of his wish to work with Iran for a lasting political solution to the Syrian crisis. Tehran is a supporter of President Bashar al-Assads regime. Macrons visit to Iran would be the first by a French head of state or government since 1976. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian is set to travel to the Islamic Republic in the next few weeks. Trump has stopped short of withdrawing the United States from an international accord signed with Iran in 2015, which seeks to ensure that Tehran would place limitations on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of some sanctions. Trump had repeatedly lambasted the six-party pact as the stupidest and one of the worst and most one-sided transactions the United States has ever entered into in history. While the former reality television celebrity did not pull the United States out of the agreement, he gave the U.S. Congress 60 days to decide whether to reimpose economic sanctions on Tehran that were lifted under the pact. In Iran, critics among both the conservative Principalist faction and the more liberal Pro-Reform faction derided Trumps speech. Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps newspaper Javan ran a front-page headline that said Trump Tears Confidence in the US, while the reformist newspapers ran headlines describing Trump as Mr. Blunder. Liberal newspaper Aftab-e Yazd placed the title He Just Nagged on its front page, while official government organ Irans front page described his speech as Failed Chest-Thumping and anti-Iranian rambling meant to cover his retreat in the face of pressures supporting the accord. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told European media outlets his country would continue to abide by the deal if Europe did too, according to Germanys DPA news agency. The nuclear deal is a test for Europeans, whether they can play a role in the international scene without the support of the U.S., Zarif said. Europes resistance will show whether the nuclear deal can be carried on or not. Heads of state in Europe have slammed Trumps decision and stood by the deal. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, British Prime Minister Theresa May and French President Emmanuel Macron published a joint statement noting that the deal is in our shared national security interest. Via TeleSur - Related video added by Juan Cole: WION: French President slams President Trumps decision on Iran nuclear deal Reddit Email 466 Shares By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) | The Iraqi Army and its Shiite militia adjuncts have taken Kirkuk city and raised the Iraqi flag over the state house, taking down the Kurdistan flag. They also have an army base and oil fields in Kirkuk province, which they are returning to the control of Baghdad after it was annexed by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in 2014. The Kurdistan paramilitary, the Peshmerga, are vowing that Arab Iraq will pay a heavy price for militarily retaking Kirkuk. The Beltway Bandits are alleging that Iran was behind Baghdads retaking of the province of Kirkuk from the KRG. Iran played a role, but the allegation is just silly. Iraqi Prime Minister Haydar al-Abadi couldnt have survived politically if he had not taken Kirkuk back, and it was the Baghdad governments idea. Iraqi army infantry and armored divisions were deployed. The Shiite militiamen who fought alongside government troops had Iranian training and advice, but they were adjuncts, not the main force. Since Donald Trump just tried to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist organization, the inside-the Beltway think tanks are suddenly finding it under every bed, along with consulting gold. It is true that Iran wants to take the Iraqi Kurds down a notch, for fear its own Kurds will get uppity. The IRGC is influential for the Badr Corps and the Interior Ministry in Iraq. But the Ministry of Defense reports to Abadi, and he was the driving force here. The Kurds had predominated in three provinces in the old Iraq. After the Gulf War they more or less seceded and made their three provinces into one super-province. It was uneasily reintegrated into American Iraq from 2003. In September 2017, the Kurds tried to declare independence and they tried unilaterally to add a fourth Iraq province to their KRG. Baghdad would naturally react against this threat of secession. I am not saying Kurds dont deserve their own state; I am saying that President Massoud Barzani of the KRG was being unrealistic. He heads a small territory that is landlocked and depends on others for export of its petroleum. Since those neighbors didnt want the referendum, why be surprised at his difficulties? I was against the US dividing up Iraq when it was the occupying power, but now that Iraqis are sovereign it is up to them to negotiate their conflicts. I certainly I understand after everything Saddam Hussein did to the Iraqi Kurds why they want independence. And the downside of Abadis invasion of Kirkuk and the fleeing of Kurds from the province is that it reminds Kurds of how the old Baath army used to behave. So how did all this happen? 1. The vacuum in US leadership meant there was no one with any authority to tell Massoud Barzani not to hold the referendum on independence. Even in the midst of this crisis, Trump yesterday declared himself as neutral as Switzerland. If the neutrality were so Trump could swing into action as a mediator, that would maybe be useful, but he appears not to have the slightest interest in getting involved. Not since 1940 has the US stood aside as a minor, neutral player in the midst of important crises. 2. The Kirkuk oil fields were doing 800,000 barrels a day of petroleum production before 2014, and while they are small and old compared to the Rumaila fields near Basra, no Baghdad government was going to let the KRG unilaterally just walk off with that resource. 3. Both Sunni and Shiite Arabs in Kirkuk, a plurality of the population, minded the KRG annexation of 2014, and if Abadis Baghdad government wants to get back the allegiance of the Sunni Arabs, it has to show decisiveness on this issue. 4. The Iraqi Army had many weapons and much training from the United States (given to fight ISIL), and they used this American-supplied weaponry at Kirkuk. The US military is upset that its weapons are being used against the Kurds and have threatened to stop supplying them to Baghdad.. 5. The Kurds were divided. Three major parties dominate the politics of the Kurdistan Regional Government. These are the center-right Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) of Massoud Barzani, the center-left Patriotic Union of Kurdistan of Bafel Talabani, and the progressive, anti-corruption Party for Change (Gorran) of Omar Said Ali. It was Barzanis KDP that spearheaded Septembers referendum on Kurdistan independence, and while the others went along with it in public, there are rumors that they were unenthusiastic about the likely fall-out of Barzanis adventurism. These divisions are one explanation for the events in Kirkuk. 6. The southern part of Kirkuk province and the city of Kirkuk were in the hands of the PUK paramilitary or Peshmerga. PUK commanders abruptly withdrew before the Iraqi Armys advance and that of the Shiite militias. Kurdish media outlet Rudaw said, The KDP media have blamed the armed forces of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) of having first abandoned their positions on the outskirts of Kirkuk. (BBC monitoring). Some are alleging that the PUK made a separate deal with the Iraqi Army to withdraw. Certainly, rank and file Peshmerga troops say they were abandoned by their officers as Iraqi forces neared the city of Kirkuk. They say, however, that both PUK and KDP Peshmerga commanders faded away. It seems likely that the PUK Peshmerga officer corps considers Barzanis move to independence to be an unwise stunt, and they refused to die for Barzanis ego. Related video added by Juan Cole: Al Jazeera English: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XObF9-sG0I VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Novo Resources Corp. (Novo or the Company) (TSX-V:NVO) (OTCQX:NSRPF) is pleased to announce that recent diamond core drilling supports strong continuity of targeted gold-bearing conglomerates at the Purdys Reward tenement, a farm-in and joint venture Novo has with ASX-listed Artemis Resources Limited and part of Novos greater Karratha gold project, Western Australia. Over the past two weeks, twelve diamond core holes have been completed in an east-west oriented area measuring approximately 400x200 m (see Figure 1 below). Targeted conglomerate strata have been intercepted in all holes (see Figure 2 below) and remain open into the greater basin to the southeast. Strata dip at very shallow angles, generally less than 10 degrees. Figure 1. Plan map showing completed and planned diamond core drilling at the Purdys Reward prospect. The location of two cross sections shown in Figure 2 is also provided. Figure 2. Two cross sections illustrating geology encountered by recent diamond core holes at the Purdys Reward prospect. Targeted conglomerates rest unconformably on top of basement metamorphic and igneous rocks and conformably beneath the Mt. Roe Basalt. Lateral continuity of the conglomerate package is excellent. As discussed in the Companys news release dated August 31, 2017, Novo is undertaking a two-pronged approach to drilling at Karratha. Scout diamond core drill holes will help allow initial assessment of the depth and thickness of targeted gold-bearing conglomerates. Once target depth and thickness have been determined, large diameter percussion holes (17.5 diameter) will be drilled to collect bulk samples, something necessary given the nuggety nature of gold mineralization. Novo is currently drilling on a 50 m grid at Purdys Reward. Diamond core has provided invaluable information about the gold-bearing conglomerate strata sandwiched between >3.0 billion year old metamorphic and intrusive rocks and the 2.78 billion year old Mt. Roe Basalt, considered the basal member of the Fortescue Group (see Figure 3 below). The Mt. Roe Basalt appears to rest conformably on top of the conglomerate package suggesting it is of similar age to underlying conglomerates. Basalt flows commonly display pillowed textures and indicating they were extruded into a subaqueous environment, likely a shallow marine setting such as a shoreline. Conglomerate horizons appear to be sheet-like rather than channelized and, like the basalt, are interpreted to have been deposited in a shallow shoreline environment. Sandstone horizons thought to be tidal flat deposits (see Figure 4 below) are interbedded with conglomerate horizons. Figure 3. Uncut core from diamond drill hole 17PDD007. The interval begins at 9.55 m and ends at 28.91 m. The targeted conglomerate package falls between 15.4 and 24.9 m. Overlying Mt. Roe Basalt flows display pillow textures and autobrecciation indicating these were extruded into a subaqueous setting. Interbedded conglomerates and sandstone are interpreted to have been deposited in a shallow, shoreline setting. Figure 4. Outcropping sandstone bed displaying symmetrical ripples. Such ripples form in a shallow marine environment such as a tidal flat or bay. This outcrop occurs near the top of the conglomerate sequence in an area near current diamond drilling at Purdys Reward. Rounded to angular clasts of mafic volcanic and intrusive rocks dominated most conglomerate horizons. A slight distinction is made between a lower sequence that is nearly devoid of quartz and an upper sequence that bears up to 10% rounded white quartz clasts. Novo personnel have noted at surface that while the entire conglomerate sequence has been subject metal detecting activity, most gold appears to be derived from the lower, mafic clast-rich conglomerate sequence. The entire conglomerate sequence ranges from around 4 to 15 meters in true thickness within the area that has been drilled. Water worn, detrital pyrite is common between larger rock clasts (see Figure 5 below). Such pyrite is common in gold-bearing conglomerates at Novos Beatons Creek conglomerate-hosted gold project approximately 350 km east of Karratha and in many gold deposits in the Witwatersrand basin of South Africa. The presence of pyrite serves as an indicator that no oxygen was present in Earths atmosphere at the time of deposition for had oxygen been present, it would have readily oxidized to rust. Figure 5. Sawn diamond core from 12.9 m in hole 17PDD008. Detrital pyrite (buckshot pyrite) can be seen in the matrix between clasts. Such pyrite is common at Novos Beatons Creek project approximately 350 km east of Karratha and in many gold deposits in the Witwatersrand basin, South Africa. A particularly interesting pyrite clast was observed within a mafic clast-rich conglomerate at 28.9 m depth in hole 17PDD007 (see Figure 6 below). Very fine filaments of pyrite intergrown with silica are interpreted to be the fossil remains of a stromatolite, a type of bacterial mound that grows in shallow water, especially along shorelines and bays. Figure 6. Clast of possible fossilized stromatolite, a type of microbial mound that lives in shallow water environments. The stromatolite has been replaced by fine grained pyrite. Novo plans to accelerate diamond core drilling at Purdys with a second drill that should be on site within two days. Large diameter percussion drilling is anticipated to commence within a week. Recently completed diamond cores holes will be twinned to obtain bulk sample material for assay. We are pleased to see strong continuity of the gold-bearing conglomerate unit at Purdys Reward, commented Dr. Quinton Hennigh, President, Chairman and a director of Novo Resources Corp. Diamond drill core is providing us our most complete picture to date of this remarkable deposit. Gold-bearing conglomerates were clearly deposited in a shallow marine setting, an environment that can potentially persist over large lateral extents. These are not erratic, localized river-lain alluvial deposits. We eagerly await ramping up our core drilling efforts and commencement of our large diameter percussion drill program. Karratha Gold Project Gold mineralization at Karratha is hosted by a sequence of conglomerate beds, fossil gravel horizons, ranging from a few meters to approximately 20 meters thick comprising the base of a much thicker package of sedimentary and volcanic rocks called the Fortescue Group. Rocks of the Fortescue Group were deposited between 2.78 and 2.63 years ago upon 3.0-3.7 billion year old igneous and metamorphic rocks that make up the Pilbara craton, an ancient piece of Earths crust. Over the past year, local metal detectorists have excavated gold nuggets originating from weathered conglomerate along an eight-kilometer, southwest-trending corridor between the Purdys Reward prospect (please refer to the Companys news releases dated May 26 and August 15, 2017) and Comet Well (please refer to the Companys news releases dated April 11, June 26, and August 3, 2017). These gold-bearing conglomerates dip gently southeastward under cover at angles of between 2 and 20 degrees. The Company secured 100% control over approximately 7,000 sq km in areas along strike and down dip from Purdys Reward and Comet Well through aggressive staking earlier this year. Novo believes that these gold-bearing conglomerates may underlie significant areas within the greater Fortescue basin. In the Companys news release dated July 12, 2017, Novo discussed discovery of gold nuggets in a bulk sample collected from a trench at the Purdys Reward prospect. Metallurgical test work conducted on this sample was discussed in the Companys news release issued August 8, 2017. The weighted average grade of two splits of this bulk sample was 67.08 gpt Au. Approximately 82% of the gold in this sample was determined to be coarse, mainly nuggets displaying several interesting characteristics. These are commonly flattened with rounded edges giving them an appearance similar to watermelon seeds. Most are coarse, +2 mm and are not attached to quartz or other minerals. Gold is of high purity, +96%, much higher than the gold content of nuggets derived from basement-hosted lode gold deposits from the Pilbara region that commonly display purities of 70-90%. Nuggets display crenulated surfaces thought derived from burial and compaction within a sandy matrix. In addition to coarse gold, this metallurgical test confirmed a significant fine-grained gold component is present in these conglomerates. Such fine gold, if it is indeed disseminated throughout the conglomerates, could prove important to help evaluate grade and continuity of this deposit. Dr. Quinton Hennigh, the Companys, President and Chairman and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has approved the technical contents of this news release. About Novo Resources Corp. Novos focus is to explore and develop gold projects in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and Novo has built up a significant land package covering approximately 12,000 sq km. Novo also controls a 100% interest in approximately 2 sq km covering much of the Tuscarora Au-Ag vein district, Nevada. LIBERTY LAKE, Wash., Oct. 17, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hunt Mining Corp. (the Corporation or Hunt) (TSX VENTURE:HMX) is pleased to announce the shipment of 54,662 troy ounces of silver and 67.91 troy ounces of gold, or 59,874 silver equivalent troy ounces using a 76.74 to 1 silver to gold ratio from the Martha Mine Project (Martha Project) located in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. Argentina Spring 2017 Shipment Shipment Weight dmt Ag g/t Au g/t Silver (Troy Ounces) Gold (Troy Ounces) Lot 7 35.146 48,375 60.1 54,662 68 Troy ounces consisting of 31.1035 grams dmt = dry metric tonne g/t = grams per tonne Grades are based on independent assays taken at the port by Alex Stewart Hunt continues to evaluate the metallurgy of the La Josefina gold and silver material for optimum flotation processing. With the recent season change from winter to spring, management is in the process of upgrading the Martha Project for additional production as summer commences. Additional information on the Martha Project and other Santa Cruz, Argentina projects can be viewed on the Company website at: www.huntmining.com. About Hunt Mining Hunt Mining Corp. has continued to develop its properties as an active and aggressive explorer in Santa Cruz since 2006, entering into production of silver and gold at the Mina Martha property in January 2017. Since 2006, Hunt's wholly owned subsidiary, Cerro Cazador S.A., has completed exploration activity including 62,000 meters of HQ core drilling, 416 line kilometers of Induced Polarization geophysical surveys and more than 20,000 surface soil, sediment, channel, chip, and trench samples, beyond the historical work previous to the same properties. Hunt also owns a 100% interest in the Martha property, which includes the Martha Project, also located in the Santa Cruz Province of Argentina. North Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 16, 2017) - Lion One Metals Limited (TSX-V: LIO) (ASX: LLO) (OTCQX: LOMLF) (FSE: LY1) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that its ongoing diamond drilling program has returned further high grade gold intersections at its 100% owned and fully permitted high grade underground Tuvatu Gold Project located near Nadi on the island of Viti Levu in the Republic of Fiji. Recent Drill Highlights1 Drill results continue to expand the HT Corridor mineralisation with wider (up to ~8 meters true width) and high-grade intersections 11 meters averaging 9.1g/t gold from 80.8 meters including: 5.2 meters averaging 15.3g/t gold 4.8 meters averaging 20.3g/t gold from 21.5 meters including: 1.8 meters averaging 51.8g/t gold 4.5 meters averaging 7.1g/t gold from 214.5 meters including: 1.8 meters averaging 15.0g/t gold Mineralisation extends from surface and in close proximity to current decline with potential to add to the initial early mine-plan Current Drill Program Drill results have been received from a further three diamond drill holes (TUDDH463, 467 and 469) completed on extensions to the Tuvatu Gold Project. These drill holes targeted the individual mineralised lodes within the recently recognised and potentially significant HT Corridor mineralisation. Please refer to Figures 1 and 2, and Tables 1, 2 and 3 for drill hole details. HT Corridor Mineralisation: a zone of growing significance The previous resource estimate for Tuvatu included generally lower grade mineralisation in lodes named T1, T2, H1 and H2 and as announced in the NI43-101 resource estimate on 4 June 2014. Prompted by a reinterpretation and the recognition of high-grade mineralisation at surface, the Company returned to this area for further drilling in 2017. Other results from this current program have included 2.77 meters averaging 35.08g/t, 3.4 meters averaging 23.2g/t gold and refer to releases dated 22 August 2017 and 15 September 2017 for further details. Figure 1: Tuvatu Gold Project 2016/7 Diamond Drilling Program with Current Drilling Target Area The current mine plan derives most of its inventory from the UR lodes which are narrow high-grade structures oriented north-south and form along cracks in the host monzonite rock. The zone hosting the T and H lodes has been named the HT Corridor. The HT Corridor mineralization is of a different nature to the UR lodes and includes highly fractured, brecciated and wider zones of mineralisation striking northwest-southeast and dipping steeply to the northeast. The HT Corridor is characterised by a distinct biotite and potassium feldspar alteration which has enabled mapping of the corridor for over a kilometers to the northwest and 2 kilometers to the southeast of the existing drilling. The mineralisation identified in the 2017 drilling to date remains open in both directions along strike and also down dip. Figure 2: HT Zone of Mineralization outlined by Drilling, Mapping and Trenching Mining significance The contribution of the T and H lodes to the current mine-plan is minimal due to the 2014 modelled grades in this area, However, with the new higher-grade and wider mineralisation intersections, the Company expects that the overall grade and tonnage of the mineralisation in this area will increase. Furthermore, these mineralized zones extend from surface and crosscut the existing decline and hence have the potential to be exploited early in the mine-plan. The Company looks forward to announcing further drill results as and when they are received and compiled from the current drill program and, in time, a revised mine plan and mining inventory that includes this new discovery. Table 1: Diamond Drill Results reported on in this News Release Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True Width (m) Au (g/t) Lode TUDDH 463 3.34 3.70 0.36 0.25 8.01 UR2 80.79 91.80 11.01 7.79 9.08 T1 incl 81.42 86.60 5.18 3.66 15.30 T1 116.70 118.40 1.70 1.20 1.57 T2 127.35 130.02 2.67 1.89 3.12 T2 TUDDH 467 124.60 125.10 0.50 0.33 6.91 H1 133.80 134.05 0.25 0.17 26.36 H1 191.70 199.45 7.75 5.19 1.19 T1 214.45 218.90 4.45 2.98 7.13 T2 incl 216.15 217.90 1.75 1.17 14.96 T2 TUDDH 469 16.05 18.64 2.59 0.89 4.42 T2 incl 16.80 17.80 1.00 0.34 10.40 T2 21.50 26.27 4.77 1.63 20.29 T1 incl 22.95 24.78 1.83 0.63 51.84 T1 50.82 51.05 0.23 0.08 11.53 H1 53.60 55.57 1.97 0.67 3.47 H1 88.90 90.60 1.70 0.58 1.49 H2 Notes: Intersections reported here are often composite samples. Results reported here only include those which returned single intervals or composited intervals of > 2 gram.meters. Those intervals highlighted have returned results of >15gram.meters TUDDH prefix denotes diamond drill holes drilled from the surface. Table 2: Drill Hole Logistics from the Current Reported Holes Hole Number Northing Easting Depth RL Azimuth Dip TUDDH 463 3921005.94 1876503.13 137.60 227.7 234 -65.0 TUDDH 467 3921031.86 1876516.43 230.60 216.31 234 -68.0 TUDDH 469 3921069.33 1876363.29 190.60 184.41 095 -65.0 Notes: For surface diamond drill holes, up to 26 meters of the poorly consolidated surface material was drilled using PQ3 (83.0mm core diameter) diamond core with remainder of the hole drilled with HQ3 (61.1mm core diameter) diamond core. Downhole surveys are carried out using a Ranger Explorer Mark 2 electronic multi-shot camera. Downhole surveys are taken at least once every 30 m. Table 3: Diamond Drill Results from this mineralized zone reported in Previous News Releases Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True Width (m) Au (g/t) Lode TUDDH 442 42.59 46.25 3.66 3.00 1.74 H1 49.20 51.97 2.77 2.27 35.08 H2 57.13 59.70 2.57 2.11 2.02 T1 62.55 65.77 3.22 2.64 6.83 T2 TUDDH 448 8.60 9.40 0.80 0.27 8.27 H2 13.43 14.20 0.77 0.26 4.08 H2 20.80 21.23 0.43 0.15 6.48 H2 24.95 30.22 5.27 1.80 2.54 H2 41.70 42.30 0.60 0.21 2.32 H2 50.80 53.37 2.57 0.88 2.69 H2 TUDDH 449 15.10 18.60 3.50 2.68 6.00 T1 33.64 34.45 0.81 0.62 2.26 T2 TUDDH 450 70.54 72.00 1.46 1.26 1.41 H2 TUDDH 452 26.96 31.73 4.77 3.65 2.14 T1 incl 31.38 31.73 0.35 0.27 15.40 T1 39.23 44.10 4.87 3.73 1.13 T2 TUDDH 453 63.00 68.80 5.80 1.98 5.93 H1 63.25 65.25 2.00 0.68 13.40 H1 70.30 82.85 12.55 4.29 2.73 H1 incl 80.40 82.85 2.45 0.84 6.02 H1 88.05 90.50 2.45 0.84 5.27 H1 TUDDH 454 62.10 67.90 5.80 5.02 1.39 T2 TUDDH 455 38.80 39.50 0.70 0.24 6.17 T2 TUDDH 458 80.20 82.70 2.50 1.92 1.39 H1 89.70 90.9 1.20 0.92 10.17 H2 TUDDH 459 75.65 79.55 3.90 2.99 9.55 H1 incl 76.70 78.65 1.95 1.49 14.97 H1 TUDDH 461 58.90 62.30 3.40 2.4 23.24 T1 68.60 69.28 0.68 0.48 2.10 T1 78.97 80.30 1.33 0.94 4.37 T2 82.20 82.85 0.65 0.46 2.72 T2 TUDDH 462 67.50 71.10 3.60 2.55 1.95 T1 87.60 93.33 5.73 4.05 3.21 T1 incl 92.50 93.33 0.83 0.59 10.71 T2 95.60 97.00 1.40 0.99 3.42 T2 Notes: This Table includes results from diamond drill holes reported on in previous Lion One news releases from the same mineralized zone. For these diamond drill holes, up to 26 meters of the poorly consolidated surface material was drilled using PQ3 (83.0mm core diameter) diamond core with remainder of the hole drilled with HQ3 (61.1mm core diameter) diamond core. Downhole surveys are carried out using a Ranger Explorer Mark 2 electronic multi-shot camera. Downhole surveys are taken at least once every 30 m. About Tuvatu | Lion One | Fiji Gold Lion One is advancing its 100% owned Tuvatu Gold Project as a near-term production opportunity in Fiji. Tuvatu is a low-sulphidation epithermal gold system and has a comparable footprint and geological analogies to other high grade epithermal gold deposits in the Pacific Ring of Fire such as Porgera and Lihir in PNG, and Vatukoula in Fiji. Tuvatu has been fully permitted by the Government of Fiji for operations start-up and has a dual-track strategy of production development and resource expansion inside its 385 hectare mining lease and on its wider extensive land-holdings in the area. Tuvatu is located 17 km from the international airport in Nadi, on the west coast of Viti Levu in the Republic of Fiji. Lion One's CEO Walter Berukoff is leading an experienced team of mine builders, and has owned or operated over 20 mines in 7 countries. As the founder and former CEO of Miramar Mines, Northern Orion, and La Mancha Resources, Mr Berukoff is credited with building over $3 billion of value for shareholders. Tuvatu was advanced by previous owners through underground exploration and development from 1997 through to the completion of a feasibility study in 2000. Acquired by Lion One in 2011, the project has over 110,000 meters of drilling completed to date in addition to 1,430 meters of underground development. In January 2016 the Hon. Prime Minister of Fiji, Mr. V. Bainimarama, formally presented the previously granted Tuvatu Mining Lease to Lion One. This concluded the permitting process for the development of an underground gold mine and processing plant at Tuvatu, demonstrating strong government support for Fiji's 85 year-old gold mining industry. As per its independent June 1, 2015 NI 43-101 PEA Technical Report on the Tuvatu Gold Project, the Company envisages a low cost underground gold mining operation producing an initial estimate of ~353,000 ounces of gold at head grades of 11.3 g/t Au over an initial 7 year mine life. Estimated cash cost is US$567 per ounce with all-in sustaining cost of US$779 per ounce. Total capex of US$48.6 million includes a contingency of US$6.1 million with an 18 month preproduction schedule and 18 month payback on capital. At a US$1,200 gold price, the project generates net cash flow of US$112.6 million and an IRR of 52% (after tax). The Company is not basing its production decision on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability; as a result there is increased uncertainty and economic and technical risks associated with its production decision. Mine engineering and underground development is progressing alongside final detailed engineering for the Tuvatu processing plant and site infrastructure. The Company has now dewatered the existing Tuvatu exploration decline to 560 meters from the portal down the decline. The decline was completed in the year 2000 by Emperor Gold Mines, comprising 1,430 meters of underground development including drives, cross cuts and raises. In conjunction with the dewatering, ventilation fans and lighting were installed early in 2017 and are running 24 hours per day. The rehabilitation of the decline is ongoing as dewatering progresses, but in general the stability and ground conditions have been shown to be very good. The areas of rehabilitation and regularly reviewed and approved by Mine Inspectors from Fiji's Mineral Resource Department. Competent Persons and QP Statement Information in this announcement relating to exploration drilling at the Tuvatu project is based on data compiled by Lion One's Managing Director, Mr Stephen Mann, who is a member of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr. Mann is the Qualified Person ("QP") responsible for the Tuvatu exploration program and has prepared and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr. Mann has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which they are undertaking to qualify as Competent Persons under the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Mann consents to the inclusion of the data in the form and context in which it appears. The Tuvatu Mineral Resources have been estimated by Mining Associates, an external consultancy, and are previously reported under the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (see LOL -ASX announcement 4June 2014 titled "Lion One Announces Revised NI 43-101 Resource Estimate: Increased Tonnage and Grade at the Tuvatu Gold Project, Fiji"). The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original market announcements and, in the case of estimates of Mineral Resources that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimate in the relevant market announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed. The company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not materially modified from the original market announcements. The Tuvatu historical exploration results have been sourced from data collected by previously listed companies which have undergone a number of peer reviews by qualified consultants, who conclude that the resources comply with the JORC code and are suitable for public reporting. This information was prepared and first disclosed under the JORC Code 2004. It has not been updated since to comply with the JORC Code 2012 on the basis that the information has not materially changed since it was last reported. For more information on Lion One including technical reports please visit the Company's website at www.liononemetals.com or the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com . 1. Yes. The ordinance goes against state law and is not in the best interest of the cities. 2. Yes. At the very least, it should be amended to give police officers some discretion. 3. No. Voters approved the ordinance by large majorities; the councils cant ignore that fact. 4. No. The petition process has to be given a chance to work. Leave the ordinance alone. 5. Unsure. Its hard to say how the cities should move forward regarding the ordinance. Vote View Results Boca Raton, FL, USA, 10/17/2017 /SubmitPressRelease123/ According to a study published in 2017 by the journal Clinical Toxicology, medication mistakes are on the rise. Estimates by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reveal that about 1.3 million Americans are injured by drug errors every year. Although accidents can happen with any kind of medication, certain drugs are particularly susceptible to errors. Here are three common medications that can be easily confused with other drugs. Zantac vs. Zyrtec Zantac is a drug used to treat heartburn, whereas Zyrtec is a medication used for people with allergies. Both drugs are sold over-the-counter, but both are also available in prescription strength. If taken improperly, both can also cause serious problems, including issues with the liver and kidneys. Lamictal vs. Lamisil Lamictal is an epilepsy drug. Lamisil is used to treat fungal infections. In 2013, a woman in Illinois developed painful and disfiguring blisters all over her body after her doctor prescribed a potentially deadly combination of Lamictal and Depakote. The rash was caused by Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a drug interaction that caused blisters to spread inside her lungs and left her fighting for her life. Although she recovered, she is legally blind and suffers constant lung infections. She saw several doctors before one finally identified the syndrome. Celebrex vs. Celexa While Celebrex is an arthritis medication, Celexa is used to treat depression. Its easy to see how these two medications could get mixed up given the similarity in their names. However, it only takes one mistake in the chain of distribution from the drug manufacturer to the doctor and the pharmacist to bring about a deadly result. Check Your Medications Carefully The Institute for Safe Medication Practices has issued a list of hundreds of drugs that have similar-sounding names to other medications. To avoid getting your medication mixed up with another drug, follow these safety tips: Double Check Your Prescriptions Dont assume your prescription has been checked and triple checked. Pharmacists and doctors are human, and they can make mistakes just like anyone else. Know What Youre Taking If the doctor prescribed it, it must be safe, right? Actually, not always. If a doctor is in a rush, he or she may not ask you detailed health questions, including a family history of bad drug reactions. Always ask the doctor to explain what youre taking and why. Talk to the Pharmacist Dont skip your chance to discuss your medication with the pharmacist. Your health is too important to leave to chance. Boca Raton Medication Error Lawyer Discusses Drug Errors Boca Raton medication error lawyer Joe Osborne explains, Drug errors can happen in the doctors office, in hospitals, and inside pharmacies. Whether its an interaction between two or more different drugs, or a mistake in which a doctor prescribes the wrong drug or mixes up two patients, drug mistakes can kill. Contact a Boca Raton Medication Error Lawyer Today If you or a loved one has suffered injuries caused by a negligent doctor, hospital, or pharmacist, dont wait to speak to a lawyer. Contact Boca Raton personal injury lawyer Joe Osborne today at (561) 800-4011. Sources: http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/07/12/536519077/took-the-wrong-medicine-by-mistake-study-finds-such-errors-are-on-the-rise http://www.ismp.org/Tools/confuseddrugnames.pdf http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/watchdog/druginteractions/ct-drug-interactions-skin-reaction-met-20160209-story.html Press Contact: Joe Osborne personal injury lawyer (561) 800-4011 source: https://www.oa-lawfirm.com/boca-raton-medication-error-lawyer-discusses-common-drug-mistakes/ Newsroom powered by Online Press Release Distribution SubmitMyPressRelease.com Like Us on Facebook It's only fair to share... Pinterest Linkedin email Print Aikens, Burrack receive 2017 Commerce Bank and W.T. Kemper Foundation Distinguished Graduate Faculty Award Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 MANHATTAN A chemist whose research is internationally recognized and a music educator who is a national leader in designing models for assessment effectiveness are recipients of Kansas State University's Commerce Bank and W.T. Kemper Foundation Distinguished Graduate Faculty Award. Christine Aikens, professor of chemistry, and Frederick Burrack, professor of music education and director of the university's Office of Assessment, are being recognized with the award for their outstanding scholarly achievements and contributions to graduate education at Kansas State University. Each will receive a $2,500 honorarium. The awards are supported by the William T. Kemper Foundation and the Commerce Bancshares Foundation, and are coordinated through the Kansas State University Foundation and the university president's office. "Rewarding outstanding graduate-level instruction at Kansas State University has been a point of pride for Commerce Bank and the William T. Kemper Foundation for more than 20 years," said Tom Giller, chairman of Commerce Bank, Manhattan. "We are honored to continue this tradition by recognizing Drs. Aikens and Burrack for their excellence in research and in the teaching and mentoring of K-State students." Both professors will make public presentations on their work, with Burrack's presentation at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, in the Big 12 Room at the K-State Student Union, and Aikens' presentation at 2 p.m. Monday, April 2, 2018, also in the Big 12 Room. The two also will be recognized at the Graduate School's fall commencement ceremony at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, in Bramlage Coliseum. Since joining the Kansas State University faculty as an assistant professor in fall 2007, Aikens' work on developing a theoretical understanding of the relationship between structure and properties of nanomaterials including the structure and spectroscopic properties of gold and silver nanoparticles and nanoparticle arrays, and the reactivity of nanostructured metal oxide particles has garnered more than $2.3 million in extramural support. Her work has been supported by the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, Air Force Office of Scientific Research, American Chemical Society and more. Aikens and her research group have written more than 90 manuscripts that have appeared in top chemistry and scientific journals and have been cited numerous times. In 2016 alone, their work generated more than 700 citations. Promoted to full professor in 2015, Aikens has earned many prestigious honors, including an NSF CAREER award in 2010, Hewlett-Packard Outstanding Junior Faculty Award from the American Chemical Society in 2011 and a Camille Dreyfus Teaching-Scholar Award from 2011-2016. She also was named a Kavli fellow in 2012 and awarded an Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship from 2011-2013. She has delivered more than 100 presentations at national and international conferences and workshops, including presenting the 2017 Kroto Lecture in Chemical Physics at Florida State University and the 2015 Journal of Physical Chemistry A Lectureship. At the graduate level, Aikens has been major professor to five successful doctoral candidates at Kansas State University. She has taught six graduate-level courses, including a course she developed, Introduction to Computational Chemistry. She also includes postdoctoral researchers and undergraduate students on her research team. Aikens graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's in chemistry from the University of Oklahoma and earned her doctorate in physical chemistry from Iowa State University. She completed postdoctoral studies at Northwestern University. Combining his knowledge and research interests in both assessment and music education, Burrack serves the teaching profession on a national scale. As director of the university's Office of Assessment, he leads initiatives to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of assessment at the university. He also guides student learning assessment processes for all of the university's graduate programs. His efforts helped Kansas State University earn the inaugural Excellence in Assessment designation from the National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment in 2016. The designation recognizes the university's commitment to comprehensive assessment of student learning outcomes. Burrack led a team of nine researchers that designed the model cornerstone assessments for the new national music education standards. He currently is working on a book, "Assessing Student Learning for the 2014 National Standards for Music in K-12 Context: A Research-Supported Approach to Applying Model Cornerstone Assessments in School Music Programs," about the project for publisher Roman and Littlefield. He has written book chapters in the "Oxford Handbook on Assessment Policy and Practice in Music Education," the "Sage Encyclopedia of Education Research, Measurement and Evaluation," "Music Assessment Across Cultures and Continents: The Culture of Shared Practice," "Connecting Practice, Measurement and Evaluation" and "Teaching Music Through Performance in Band." The author of nearly 40 peer-reviewed publications on topics in both music education and assessment, he also has presented his work at many national and international conferences. He is member of the International Review Panel for the International Symposium on Assessment in Music Education and former chair of the Special Research Interest Group on Music Assessment, Society of Research in Music Education and National Association for Music Education. Currently, he is serving on the Knowledge Task Force for the Association for the Assessment of Learning in Higher Education, which is charged with identifying and facilitating ways to advance the development of knowledge devoted to assessing and improving student learning in higher education. As chair of graduate studies in music education in the university's School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, Burrack has worked to increase and sustain the quality of graduate students in the program, ensuring they receive high-quality instruction, research opportunities and mentoring so that they may be successful in their careers. He also has been a member of 141 Master of Music graduate committees and the chair of 14 doctoral committees at the university. A member of the Kansas State University faculty since 2005, Burrack was promoted to full professor in 2014. He earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa; a Master of Music in music education from Northwestern University; and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction-music education from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. One of the largest known carnivorous dinosaurs, Tyrannosaurus rex T. rex, for short is also arguably the most iconic. With a star turn in the "Jurassic Park" franchise and a renowned exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City among many other pop culture moments, T. rex maintains a reputation as king of the dinosaurs. In fact, the animal's name means "king of the tyrant lizards". "Tyranno" means tyrant in Greek; "saurus" means lizard in Greek; and "rex" translates to "king" in Latin. In 1905, Henry Fairfield Osborn, president of the American Museum of Natural History at the time, officially dubbed the species Tyrannosaurus rex. T. rex was a member of the Tyrannosauroidea family of huge predatory dinosaurs with small arms and two-fingered hands. Aside from Tyrannosaurs, other Tyrannosaurid genera include Albertosaurus, Alectrosaurus, Alioramus, Chingkankousaurus, Daspletosaurus, Eotyrannus, Gorgosaurus, Nanotyrannus (a controversial genus that experts say is likely an adolescent T. rex), Prodeinodon, Tarbosaurus and Zhuchengtyrannus. T. rex fossils are found in western North America, from Alberta to Texas. But it's possible that T. rex was an invasive species from Asia, according to a 2016 study published in Scientific Reports. An analysis of T. rex's skeletal features showed that the dinosaur king was more similar to two Tyrannosaurs in Asia, Tarbosaurus and Zhuchengtyrannus, than it was to North American Tyrannosaurs, the researchers told Live Science. The animals may have crossed over about 67 million years ago when the seaway between Asia and North America receded. However, the finding is still preliminary, and other experts maintain that T. rex evolved in North America, the researchers acknowledged. T. rex fossils reveal that the animals could grow to 40 feet (12.2 m) in length. (Image credit: Kirstin Brink) How big was T. rex? The most complete T. rex skeleton ever found was nicknamed Sue after its discoverer, paleontologist Sue Hendrickson. Measurements of Sue suggest T. rex was one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs to ever live, coming in at up to 13 feet (4 meters) tall at the hips (the beast's highest point since it did not stand erect) and 40 feet (12.3 m) long. A recent analysis of Sue, published in 2011 in the journal PLOS ONE, shows T. rex weighed as much as 9 tons (about 8,160 kilograms). In 2019, researchers published the discovery of another T. rex fossil, nicknamed "Scotty," that edged out Sue as the most massive of its kind, likely weighing in at 19,555 lbs. (8,870 kilograms) in life. Scotty also likely lived longer than many of its fellows, outlasting Sue's 28 years to live to the ripe old (for a Tyrannosaurus) age of 30. T. rex had strong thighs and a powerful tail, which counterbalanced its large head (Sue's skull is 5 feet, or 1.5 m, long) and allowed it to move quickly. The 2011 study, which also modeled T. rex's muscle distribution and center of mass, suggests the giant could run 10 to 25 mph (17 to 40 km/h), as previous studies had estimated. Its two-fingered forearms were puny, making it unlikely that T. rex could use them to kill or even get a meal to its mouth. However, it's possible that T. rex had such tiny arms because of its powerful bite, according to research from Michael Habib, an assistant professor of clinical cell and neurobiology at the University of Southern California and a research associate at the Dinosaur Institute at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The "king of dinosaurs" needed thick neck muscles to hold up its large skull and power its forceful bite. Neck and arms muscles compete for space in the shoulder, and it appears that the neck muscles edged out the arm muscles in T. rex's case, according to Habib's research. Moreover, long arms can be broken, are vulnerable to disease, and take energy to maintain, so having short arms may have been beneficial to the king in the long run, Habib's research shows. The real work of dispensing with its prey was left to the dinosaur's massive and thick skull. T. rex had the strongest bite of any land animal that ever lived, according to a 2012 study in the journal Biology Letters. The dinosaur's bite could exert up to 12,814 pounds-force (57,000 Newtons), which is roughly equivalent to the force of a medium-size elephant sitting down. Artwork by Scott Hartman reveals the bone structure of T. rex. (Image credit: Scott Hartman / All rights reserved) T. rex had a mouth full of serrated teeth; the largest tooth of any carnivorous dinosaur ever found was 12 inches (30 centimeters) long. But not all of the dinosaur's teeth served the same function, according to a 2012 study in the Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences. Specifically, the dinosaur's front teeth gripped and pulled; its side teeth tore flesh, and its back teeth diced chunks of meat and forced food into the throat. Importantly, T. rex's teeth were wide and somewhat dull (rather than being flat and daggerlike), allowing the teeth to withstand the forces exerted by struggling prey, the study found. T. rex may be big, but its predecessors were small. The first tyrannosaurs, which were human- to horse-size, originated about 170 million years ago during the mid-Jurassic. Though lacking in stature, these little tyrannosaurs had advanced brains and advanced sensory perceptions, including hearing, a 2016 study detailed in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences revealed. The finding, on a newfound mid-Cretaceous tyrannosaur named Timurlengia euotica, suggests that the advanced brains tyrannosaurs developed while they were still small helped them become apex predators once they grew to T. rex's size. Teenage T. rex were more lightly built and faster than the much larger, lumbering, bone-crushing adults they would grow into. (Image credit: Julius T. Csotonyi) What did T. rex eat? T. rex was a huge carnivore and primarily ate herbivorous dinosaurs, including Edmontosaurus and Triceratops. The predator acquired its food through scavenging and hunting, grew incredibly fast and ate hundreds of pounds at a time, said University of Kansas paleontologist David Burnham. "T. rex was probably opportunistic and may have fed on carcasses, but that is not a very abundant or consistent food source," Burnham told Live Science. "T. rex had a hard life. They had to go out and kill for food when they were hungry." For many years, the evidence that T. rex actually hunted for its meals was circumstantial and included such things as bones with bite marks, teeth near carcasses and foot tracks suggesting pursuits, Burnham said. But in a 2013 study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, Burnham and his colleagues unveiled direct evidence of T. rex's predatory nature: a T. rex tooth embedded in a duckbill dinosaur's tailbone, which healed over the tooth (meaning the duckbill got away). "We found the smoking gun!" Burnham said. "With this discovery, we now know the monster in our dreams is real." T. rex was also not above enjoying another T. rex for dinner, according to a 2010 analysis published in PLOS ONE of T. rex bones with deep gashes created by T. rex teeth. However, it's not clear if the cannibalistic dinosaurs fought to the death or merely ate the carcasses of their own kind. Scientists are unsure whether T. rex hunted alone or in packs. In 2014, researchers found dinosaur track marks in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia out of the seven tracks, three belonged to Tyrannosaurids, most likely Albertosaurus, Gorgosaurus or Daspletosaurus. The study, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that T. rex's relatives, at least, hunted in packs. When and where did T. rex live? T. rex fossils are found in a variety of rock formations dating to the Maastrichtian age of the upper Cretaceous period, which lasted from 67 million to 65 million years ago, toward the end of the Mesozoic Era. It was among the last of the non-avian dinosaurs to exist prior to the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, which wiped out the dinosaurs. More mobile than many other land-based dinosaurs, T. rex roamed throughout what is now western North America, at the time an island continent identified as Laramidia. More than 50 skeletons of T. rex have been unearthed, according to National Geographic (opens in new tab). Some of these remains are nearly complete skeletons, and at least one skeleton included soft tissue and proteins. [Image Gallery: The Life of T. Rex] Fossil hunter Barnum Brown discovered the first partial skeleton of a T. rex in the Montana portion of the Hell Creek Formation in 1902. He later sold this specimen to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh. Another T. rex fossil discovery of his, also from Hell Creek, is on display in the American Museum of Natural History in New York. In 2007, scientists unearthed what may be a T. rex footprint in Hell Creek, and described their discovery in the journal Palaios. If the track did indeed belong to T. rex, it would be only the second confirmed T. rex footprint ever discovered, the first being a footprint discovered in New Mexico in 1993. Kim Ann Zimmermann and Live Science senior writer Laura Geggel contributed to this article. It was updated again on April 20, 2021 by Live Science Reference Editor Vicky Stein. Learn about T. rex's massive teeth, bones, habitat and other dinosaur secrets. (Image credit: Ross Toro, Livescience contributor) Related pages More dinosaurs Time periods Precambrian: Facts About the Beginning of Time Paleozoic Era: Facts & Information Mesozoic Era: Age of the Dinosaurs Cenozoic Era: Facts About Climate, Animals & Plants Additional resources This is the only example of Siphusauctum lloydguntheri, a bottom-feeder that lived during the Cambrian period. A solitary fossil unearthed in Utah's Antimony Canyon reveals a long-extinct marine creature previously unknown to science. Resembling a dainty tulip bloom or an elegant white-wine glass, the 500-million-year-old bottom-feeder called Siphusauctum lloydguntheri looked uniquely ready for a romantic evening of sucking up microplankton along the seafloor. Sadly for the specimen, the world's only known example of S. lloydguntheri appears to have died alone, leaving no descendants past the end of the Cambrian period (541 million to 485.4 million years ago), possibly the victim of mass extinction. Researchers at the University of Kansas' Biodiversity Institute described what little is known about the obscure invertebrate in a new paper published in the Journal of Paleontology. [Cambrian Creatures: Photos of Primitive Sea Life] "Primitive and weird" "The upper part of the tulip was the organism itself," lead study author Julien Kimmig, collections manager for Invertebrate Paleontology at the Biodiversity Institute at the University of Kansas, said in a statement. "It had a stem attached to the ground and an upper part, called the calyx, thathad everything from the digestive tract to the feeding mechanism. It was fairly primitive and weird." Measurements show that the specimen was about 3 inches (9 centimeters) long, its narrow stem accounting for a little more than half that length. With no apparent body parts to aid it in swimming, S. lloydguntheri likely rode the currents near the bottom of the sea, using its stem to anchor into soft sediment when it was time to stop for sustenance, Kimmig said. As a filter feeder, S. lloydguntheri would have taken its meals by pumping water into its calyx, then filtering out tasty organic matter like microplankton before digesting that material and excreting the waste. "It is enigmatic because we don't have anything living that is exactly like it," Kimmig said. "The closest thing to the lifestyle but not a relative would be crinoids, commonly called sea lilies." While it may have no living relatives, S. lloydguntheri does share a genus with another extinct filter feeder of the same period, named Siphusauctum gregarium. Discovered in 2012 in Canada's Burgess Shale deposit, S. gregarium shares S. lloydguntheri's bottom-feeding lifestyle and would look equally at home in the barware section of Crate & Barrel (the common name Siphusauctum comes from the Latin word "siphus," meaning "cup" or "goblet"). There are some small differences between the species' internal organs, but the most mysterious difference between the two organisms is in the number of known specimens. While large communities of S. gregarium samples have been unearthed in Canada, only this single sample of S. lloydguntheri has been discovered, despite 60 years of studying the surrounding shale deposits in Utah. Based on floating algae fossils located next to S. lloydguntheri's imprint, researchers concluded the specimen was likely carried by currents away from its community. A window into the Cambrian explosion S. lloydguntheriis named for notable fossil hunter Lloyd Gunther, who donated the shale specimen to the University of Kansas in 1976, in addition to thousands of other samples over the years. The specimen is vividly preserved in a piece of Spence shale, a fine-grained rock found in Utah and Idaho that is especially kind to soft-bodied fossils. Samples such as these provide incredible glimpses into what paleontologists call the Cambrian explosion, one of the most rapid diversifications of life in Earth's history. "Nearly every animal that we have around today has a relative that already lived during those times in the Cambrian," Kimmig said. "We have some lineages, like worms, that lived long before the Cambrian and haven't changed in appearance or behavior. Then we have things [like S. lloydguntheri] that were around for a couple of million years and just disappeared because they were chance victims of mass extinctions." Raise a wine glass to that. Original article on Live Science. In "Blade Runner 2049," Officer K (Ryan Gosling) digs deep to find answers about replicants, which are still a long way off in the future for the rest of us. Fans of the 1982 sci-fi-noir thriller "Blade Runner" had to wait more than a quarter-century for the follow-up film "Blade Runner 2049," which opened in U.S. theaters on Oct. 6. But they'll likely have to wait much, much longer to see any semblance of the films' human-mimicking androids dubbed "replicants" in the real world, experts told Live Science. The original film was set in the year 2019, and "Blade Runner 2049" takes place just 30 years later. But although the realms of both films exist in the not-too-distant future, replicants represent astonishingly sophisticated technology compared to what is available today. These androids are practically indistinguishable from people they move, speak and behave as humans do, and they are programmed to be autonomous, self-reliant and even remarkably self-aware. Today's engineers and programmers have made great strides in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) since the first "Blade Runner" movie debuted, yet the prospect of human-like replicants still seems as distant as it was 35 years ago. How close are we to developing robots that can pass for humans? [Recipe for a Replicant: 5 Steps to Building a Blade-Runner-Style Android] For decades, programmers have worked to develop computer systems called neural networks. These systems form connections similarly to the way the human brain does and can be used to train a computer to learn certain tasks. And while computers may not yet be able to mimic a fully functioning human brain, they have shown a growing ability to "learn" to do things that were previously thought to be impossible for machines. Knight takes rook In 1997, an IBM computer named Deep Blue demonstrated for the first time that artificial intelligence could "think" its way to victory against a human chess champion. Capable of exploring up to 200 million possible chess moves per second, Deep Blue defeated chess champion Garry Kasparov in a six-game match played over several days. In beating Kasparov, Deep Blue showed that computers could learn to make complex and strategic choices by referencing a vast database of potential responses, according to IBM's website. Another IBM computer, named Watson, took on an even more complicated task in 2011, competing against human contestants on the television quiz show "Jeopardy!" and besting two previous champions. Watson's "brain" was more sophisticated than Deep Blue's, addressing questions posed in natural language and presenting answers drawn from data input that spanned months prior to the competition, according to IBM. Then, in 2016, AI gameplay got a significant upgrade when an AI system called AlphaGo defeated a human player in a game of Go, thought by many to be the most complicated strategy game ever invented by humans. AlphaGo learned to become a master player by "watching" millions of games and using two types of neural networks: one to evaluate the status of a game, and one to determine its next move, the programmers explained at a news conference that year. Recently, neural networks even enabled computers to explore artistic pursuits, such as composing a holiday song, creating images of dinosaurs made entirely out of flowers and churning out five chapters of a "novel" continuing the "Game of Thrones" saga. Living is harder But sci-fi stories rarely explain what's going on under the hood of an android, and passing for "human" is harder than it looks. For a neural network to coordinate realistic physical activity in a robotic body alongside interactions that correctly use emotional inflection and social nuances, it would require programmers to input massive quantities of data, and would need processing capabilities far beyond those of any AI around today, Janelle Shane, an electrical engineering researcher who trains neural networks, told Live Science. [Machine Dreams: 22 Human-Like Androids from Sci-Fi] "The world is so varied that's one of the difficulties," Shane said. "There are so many things that a neural network can encounter." "You can train a neural network to be reasonably good at simple tasks, but if you try to get them to do a lot of different tasks at once speaking, recognizing an object, moving limbs each of those is a really tough problem. It's hard to anticipate what they can encounter and make them adapt to that," she said. Mackenzie Davis plays Mariette, a replicant sex worker, in "Blade Runner 2049." (Image credit: Courtesy of Alcon Entertainment) Shane has programmed neural networks to do things that sound fairly simple, compared to a replicant's repertoire: generating names for paint colors or guinea pigs, or assembling spells for the role-playing game "Dungeons and Dragons" (D&D). For the spells experiment, Shane incorporated a database of 1,300 examples to teach the neural network what a D&D spell is supposed to sound like. Even so, some results were noticeably odd, she told Live Science. "I had a whole series of spells I'm still not sure why that all revolved around the word 'Dave,' which was not in the original data set," Shane said. The spells, which are listed on her website, include "Chorus of the Dave," "Charm of the Dave," "Storm of the Dave" and "Hail to the Dave." There was also a Dave-less but still perplexingly named spell, "Mordenkainen's lucubrabibiboricic angion." "It was a success in terms of being entertaining, but it was not a success in terms of sounding like the wizards who are inventing D&D spells," Shane said. The body electric In recent decades, there also have been advances in designs of humanoid, bipedal robotic bodies, though they are still a far cry from the human-like replicants. However, recent design innovations offer the possibility of integrating more soft parts into robots to help them move more like people do, said Hod Lipson, a professor of mechanical engineering and data science at Columbia University in New York. "We have been stuck in this corner of what's possible in robotics, simply because we've only had access to stiff, rigid components: hard motors, metal pieces, hard joints," Lipson told Live Science. "But if you look at biology, you see that animals are mostly made of soft materials, and that gives them a lot of capabilities that robots don't have." Lipson and his colleagues recently designed a 3D-printed soft "muscle" for robots a mechanism for movement control known as an "actuator," Lipson said. Made of synthetic materials, the actuator is flexible, electrically activated and about 15 times stronger than a human muscle. An actuator such as this, which can move in response to a stimulus, was "almost a missing link when it comes to physical robotics," Lipson said. (L) The electrically actuated muscle with thin resistive wire in a rest position; (R) The muscle is expanded. (Image credit: Aslan Miriyev/Columbia Engineering) "We've solved a lot of other things, but when it comes to motion, we're still fairly primitive," he said. "It's not that the actuator that we've come up with is necessarily going to solve everything, but it definitely addresses one of the weak points of this new kind of robotics." Over the past decade, strikingly lifelike robots cloaked in artificial skin have appeared briefly at conferences or have been tested in studies, but there's a good reason why we haven't seen any walking the streets let alone performing the spectacular acrobatic feats demonstrated by replicants, Lipson said. "Robots really can't handle unstructured physical environments very well. There's a huge gap there," he said. "In many of these movies, we're somehow skipping the question of how you make these machines in reality," Lipson added. "No one has any clue how to make a machine that's nimble, that can store power inside and walk for days. "If I had to predict the future, I think we'll get to the human-mind level in AI very soon," he said. "But when it comes to the body, it will take another century." Original article on Live Science. Now that spring is here at last, there is a lot happening in Shakespear Open Sanctuary. Most notable is the safe arrival of our resident flock of godwits, back from their breeding season in Alaska having flown non-stop across the Pacific in a week or so. To accomplish this incredible flight they first accumulate enough fat to double their weight and then burn it all up on the way, plus burning up some flight muscle as their weight and power needs reduce. They cannot stop on the water and so do not get a drink either so their airways are adapted to reduce evaporation. They go back to the same sites in NZ and Alaska each year and, while their navigation is not fully understood, it is thought that they navigate approximately using the sun and stars and then, after the right number of days, start looking for landmarks and other signs. We demand a high level of security in our own travels, but as a species the godwits live with some likelihood that they will not arrive where they intended (if at all!). But now they are here they are usually to be found at low tide on the mudflats at Okoromai Bay. It is also breeding season for our little spotted kiwi. Weve been following them using radio trackers so we know approximately where each one is living, so we can tell when they pair up and, once a male stops moving around, we assume that he is sitting on an egg. Hell do this for 70 days before the egg hatches, but the chick is then born big enough to look after itself. There is a dog-walking area at Okoromai Bay but, regrettably, some people are still bringing dogs into the sanctuary itself, causing a serious threat to the kiwi. The scent of a kiwi is apparently irresistible to dogs. They have very weak rib cages and one bite will kill them. So it is either kiwi or dogs, but not both. The no-dog signs are very clear, as is the policy of what happens to dogs that are caught, so if you do not care about the kiwi at least be considerate to your dog! If you see someone else with a dog please try to contact a ranger, or if you cannot, then get a photo and number plate and send the information to us. Our seabird program is also having some success. For the past three years weve been broadcasting seabird calls from loudspeaker systems on the eastern headlands, trying to entice birds to artificial nesting boxes. In previous years weve had a few eggs laid but none have hatched but now, for the first time, we have a grey-faced petrel chick, looking just like the big ball of fluff in your vacuum cleaner. It will be fed by both parents until it is ready to fly, around the end of the year. Parents fly a long way out to sea so it will often be on its own and very vulnerable to predators. Though the sanctuary is free of rats, stoats and cats, there are still the bigger seabirds looking for a feed and this is probably why the petrels breed underground in the first place. Near the park entrance is Waterfall Gully, one of the best bush walks around. It has a well-formed and easy track, and if you keep going to the lookout youll find a stunning view of the entire gulf. Go and see. After two years of investigation and negotiation, the first Mens Shed on the Hibiscus Coast will open this week. The organisation has signed a lease with Auckland Transport over the empty row of shops, below the dairy, in Brightside Road, Stanmore Bay. Hibiscus Mens Shed Trust chair Stuart Johnston says he is delighted that the group will finally have a place to unpack their tools, set-up their workshops and meet on a more regular basis. The 120sqm space will mainly be used for woodwork-based projects and will be a temporary home ahead of the opening of a full facility at Silverdale. The permanent shed will be built on the former bowling green in the War Memorial Park and will be much larger than the present location. At 450sqm, it will include engineering and woodworking workshops, and metalwork, welding and electronics facilities, Stuart says. Most of the paperwork has been completed and all going well, we hope to be in it by mid to late next year. While the value of the finished shed will be around $500,000, the organisation will utilise the skills of its members to considerably reduce that cost. There are just over 115 sheds throughout NZ, which bring mostly retired men together to share their skills, have a laugh and work on practical tasks either individually or as a group. Most of our members have had a 40 or 50 year working life so there is a huge wealth of experience and knowledge to be shared, Stuart says. Members range from tradesmen to professional people so its a real mix. An important aspect of the Mens Shed philosophy is mental and physical health. Men are known to have smaller circles of friends than women and we arent anywhere near as good at communicating as women, especially when it comes to health issues. Through companionship and camaraderie, the shed offers opportunities for men to share any problems or concerns they might have over a cup of tea or at the work bench. The tea room is a very important part of the complex. One of the first projects the Hibiscus shed will work on is the refurbishment of the Orewa Santa sleigh, with the idea of building a whole new sleigh next year. The shed is also looking to help local schools, kindergartens and not-for-profit groups. One thing the group doesnt lack is tools, as many have been donated from deceased estates. Guardian Storage in Silverdale was one of our first supporters and we are very grateful to them for the use of their facilities for our gear. We have partnered with Rotary to ensure that any tools that are surplus to our needs are passed on to other worthy projects. The new shed in Stanmore Bay will operate two to four days a week, normally from 10am to around 3pm depending on the needs of members. The group would welcome any assistance in the form of materials, and plant and equipment, and new members are welcome. For further information, phone Stuart Johnston on 424 7854 or 027 492 3357. Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Health & Wellness, Politics By Long Island News & PR Published: October 17 2017 Governor Signs Executive Order Directing State Health Department to Work with State Agencies in Making Organ Donation Enrollment Options More Available to the Public. Albany, NY - October 17, 2017 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a series of measures aimed at increasing organ donation in New York State. These actions include signing an Executive Order that directs the State Health Department to work with all state agencies to provide the public with additional opportunities to become an organ donor through the new Donate Life Registry. Governor Cuomo also signed legislation making "Lauren's Law" permanent in New York State, and an updated, state-of-the-art Donate Life Registry launched to streamline the organ donor registration process. "These aggressive steps break down barriers and take proactive action to encourage more New Yorkers to become organ donors, while helping to save countless lives in the process," Governor Cuomo said. "I encourage all New Yorkers to take action, become an organ donor and help us create a healthier and stronger Empire State for all." The measures include: Executive Order Increases Enrollment Opportunities Governor Cuomo signed an Executive Order that directs the Department of Health to work with the Transplant Council, New York Alliance for Donation, providers, and hospital systems licensed to provide organ transplant services, to develop opportunities to increase the number of registered organ donors in the state. Additionally, the order directs state agencies to work with the Department of Health to provide opportunities for individuals to enroll in the New York State Donate Life Registry when applying for government benefits, services, and licenses. The Department of Health and the Office of Information Technology Services will make staff available to provide agencies with any assistance that may be necessary to ensure a seamless, effective implementation. Research shows that while most New Yorkers support organ donation, only 28 percent of New York's eligible population is enrolled as an organ donor. To encourage New Yorkers to enroll in the registry, the State will expand opportunities to enroll and make it easier than ever to help save a life by becoming an organ donor. According to the federal Organ Procurement and Transplant Network , nearly 10,000 New Yorkers are currently on a list of the more than 118,000 people nationwide waiting for an organ transplant. On average, 22 people die each day in the United States from causes that could have been treated with a donated organ. In addition, tissue donated by one person can positively impact the lives of more than 50 other people. Lauren's Law Becomes Permanent Governor Cuomo also signed a bill (S01206/A05179), removing the expiration language from Lauren's Law, making it permanent in New York State. Lauren's Law was originally signed by Governor Cuomo in October 2012, and was named for Lauren Shields, a Rockland County resident who received a life-saving heart transplant at age 9 and has since been a formidable advocate for organ donation. Under the original legislation, language was changed on the Department of Motor Vehicles license renewal form to highlight the choice for New Yorkers to enroll in the NYS Donate Life Registry. Customers are required to check one of the two boxes related to organ donation in order for their application to be processed Expanded Donate Life Registry To further bolster enrollment in the New York State Donate Life Registry, the Department of Health worked with the New York Alliance for Donation to launch a modern and expanded registry . Enhancements include a more accessible and user-friendly website and the ability to access the registry from multiple state websites, thereby streamlining the registration process. The current registry was launched nearly 10 years ago. The more modern registry application better connects users and offers social media sharing options. Expanded Organ Donation Registration Initiatives in 2017 Today's announcements build upon two recent initiatives that have already significantly increased enrollment efforts. In May 2016, Governor Cuomo signed legislation requiring NY State of Health, New York's official health plan marketplace, to add the organ donation component to its health insurance application. As of April 21, 2017 , individuals completing an application, renewing a plan, or making a life status change are now asked if they would like to be added to the NYS Donate Life Registry. Since adding the enrollment option to its marketplace application, over 63,164 New Yorkers have become active enrollees in the New York State Donate Life Registry. In August 2016, Governor Cuomo signed legislation to authorize 16 and 17 year-olds to register their consent to donate at the same time they first apply for a driver license, learner permit or non-driver ID. Since the law took effect on February 14, 2017 , a total of nearly 21,000 New Yorkers aged 16 and 17 have become active in the New York State Donate Life Registry. Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, "Millions of New Yorkers have made the selfless decision to become organ donors, and now we're making it easier than ever before for others to follow in their footsteps. Under Governor Cuomo's leadership we've created a more user-friendly registry and we're increasing opportunities to connect potential donors with those who may benefit greatly from this incredible generosity." DMV Executive Deputy Commissioner Terri Egan said, "At the Department of Motor Vehicles, we are proud to have been an early partner with DOH in offering people the opportunity to sign up to be organ donors when they apply for or renew their licenses online or at any of our offices. We look forward to being part of further outreach efforts in the future because we know how vitally important it is to patients who await these life-saving donations." Senate Majority Leader John J. Flanagan said, "Whether checking a box on a DMV form or signing up directly through the Donate Life Registry, becoming an organ and tissue donor may seem like a minor choice to some - but for many across the state, donations and transplants can make all the difference in the world. I commend Governor Cuomo for taking these important steps today to complement the Senate's ongoing efforts to raise public awareness and direct resources to increase the number of life-saving organ donors in the state. As a proudly registered donor and proponent of organ donation, I urge all my fellow New Yorkers to sign up and help make a huge difference for thousands of people." Senate Health Committee Chair Kemp Hannon said, "Increasing organ donation is New York is critically important because organs are allocated on a regional basis and currently, our state has a very low percentage of people registered as donors. Modernizing the state's Donate Life Registry has been a Senate priority for several years, and I am pleased to see it is being launched. This and the other efforts announced today will truly save lives." Senator David Carlucci said, "Making Lauren's Law permanent marks a milestone in the fight to increase organ donations in New York. I would especially like to commend Lauren Shields, a Hudson Valley resident who received a life-saving heart transplant at the age of 9, for her tireless work to see this day become a reality. Lauren's effort to make this change was inspirational and I am thankful to have been a part of it. Now we owe the thousands of other people in similar situations the chance to get the same help Lauren did. Making her idea permanent is an enormous step on that path and I commend Governor Cuomo for signing it into law." Assembly Health Committee Chair Richard N. Gottfried said, "Signing up for the organ donor registry saves lives. It should be simple and widely available, and expanding enrollment options will increase participation; Lauren's Law is a great example of how one person working for a good cause can make a difference." Assemblyman Felix W. Ortiz said, "New York State now has a modern organ donation registry that will operate efficiently and promote donor consent so patients and their families will not be at risk of losing a lifesaving opportunity to receive a vital organ or tissue donation. New York has had one of the lowest donor designation rates in the United States. This action, in addition to making Lauren's Law permanent, takes New York in a new direction for the better." New York Alliance for Donation Executive Director Aisha Tator said, "Donate Life New York State is joining forces with Governor Cuomo and the New York State Department of Health to solve the state's public health crisis of organ scarcity. Together, we will save the lives of those awaiting a transplant by reforming the New York State Donate Life Registry. Currently, New York's registry is ranked 51 out of 52 registries in the country for participation. That is going to change with this partnership. As collaborative partners and the state-appointed contractor for the new Donate Life New York State Registry, we will leverage state and community resources to encourage a greater culture of donation while making it simpler - and quicker - for New Yorkers to join the registry. We are grateful for Governor Cuomo's support and leadership in addressing this crisis, which will help save the lives of hundreds of New Yorkers who need a life-saving transplant." Organ Donor Recipient and Organ Donation Advocate Lauren Shields said, "Today is an amazing day for New Yorkers. I am so grateful to Governor Cuomo for making Lauren's Law permanent in New York State. So many New Yorkers will be saved as a result. I am in awe this law will be in effect for generations to come and continue to help increase the number of New Yorkers enrolling in the Donate Life Registry. In addition, I am so extremely thankful to the New York State Legislature, who continue to support the cause of donation, and especially Senator Carlucci and Assemblyman Ortiz for their tireless efforts." New Yorkers can enroll in the NYS Donate Life Registry through the following online options: Local News, Crime By Long Island News & PR Published: October 17 2017 Jaime Rivas of Haddonfield, NJ, 56, was pulled over and taken into custody on multiple counts, cops say. NCPD reports the arrest of Jaime Rivas of Haddonfield, NJ, 56, for DWI on Sunday, October 15, in Syosset. Syosset, NY - October 17, 2017 - The Nassau County Police Department reports the arrest of a New Jersey man for Driving While Intoxicated (driving the wrong way) on Sunday, October 15, 2017 at 3:03 am in The Nassau County Police Department reports the arrest of a New Jersey man for Driving While Intoxicated (driving the wrong way) on Sunday, October 15, 2017 at 3:03 am in Syosset According to police, 911 received a call for a vehicle driving the wrong way (eastbound in the westbound lanes) on the Long Island Expressway . A Highway Patrol Officer responded to the area and observed a vehicle near exit 40 driving eastbound in the westbound HOV lane. The vehicle had passed several vehicles and trucks. The officer then observed the 2007 Mercedes Benz make a U-turn out of the HOV lane, across all lanes of traffic and come to a stop on the shoulder of the highway near exit 44. A vehicular traffic stop was conducted. Defendant Jaime Rivas, 56, of Haddonfield, NJ was observed to have slurred speech, red glassy blood shot eyes and alcohol emanating from inside the automobile. He was placed under arrest at 3:30 am. There were no accidents or injuries. Defendant Rivas is being charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Endangerment 1st Degree, Reckless Driving, Driving the Wrong Way, Use of a Portable Electronic Device and Imprudent Speed. He will be arraigned on Sunday, October 15, 2017 at First District Court, Hempstead Pets & Animal, Local News, Crime By Long Island News & PR Published: October 17 2017 Nathaniel Sutter, 40, is accused of starving a 7 month old female shih tzu/maltese mix and a 8 month old male pit bull, among other charges, police say. The Suffolk County SPCA have charged Nathaniel Sutter of Wyandanch, 40, with Animal Cruelty on October 15, 2017. Wyandanch, NY - October 17, 2017 - Suffolk County SPCA Detectives have charged a Suffolk County SPCA Detectives have charged a Wyandanch man with Animal Cruelty on October 15, 2017. Nathaniel Sutter, 40, of Wyandanch, NY was charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty for failure to provide necessary sustenance and care to two dogs, a 7 month old female shih tzu/maltese mix and a 8 month old male pit bull, allowing the dogs to live in deplorable, unsanitary condition. Additionally, Sutter was charged with a misdemeanor tethering violation by leaving the dog chained in a manner that could cause in strangulation and injury. Sutter is due in First District Court on December 14th, 2017. Chief Gross said that animal cruelty will not be tolerated in Suffolk County. If you witness any incident of animal cruelty or neglect in Suffolk County please contact the Suffolk County SPCA at (631) 382-7722. All calls will be kept confidential. The Suffolk County SPCA established in 1984, is a private, nonprofit, charitable organization and the voice for animals in Suffolk County. We are not affiliated with, a subdivision of, or funded by any other local, state or national humane organization We do not receive taxpayer or public funding. Please help us to provide a better life for pets and other animals in Suffolk County. During the last decade and a half, robotic-assisted surgery has led to smaller scars, less pain, and faster recoveries for patients. Concurrently, surgeons using this technology have benefited from being able to perform surgeries in a more comfortable position, while also experiencing greater visualization and enhanced precision. With all of these benefits, robotic-assisted surgeries are becoming increasingly common worldwide, particularly in the United States, where more than 67 percent of all of Intuitive Surgicals da Vinci robots are installed. Moreover, just yesterday we covered the FDA clearance of the Senhance surgical robotic system from TransEnterix, the first true competitor to the da Vinci. (Note: The photos of the robotic system in this article are of the Senhance, and are courtesy of TransEnterix.) However, as with any disruptive technology, it faces some skepticism and challenges. We at Medgadget were at the MIS WEEK in San Francisco earlier this month and sat down with Dr. Mona Orady, Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeon, Director of Robotic Surgery Services, St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Dignity Health Medical Group, to talk more about the obstacles facing robotic-assisted surgery and its future. Medgadget, Kenan Raddawi, M.D: Before we get started, tell us a little more about your career in robotic-assisted surgery and why you decided to go into this field. Dr. Mona Orady: I have been doing robotic surgery since the end of 2007, just two years after the FDA approved the use of robotic assisted surgery in gynecological surgery. I remember the first patient I had when I was starting to incorporate robotic-assisted surgery into my minimally invasive surgery tool kit. She was a single mother of six children, with three jobs, and a humongous uterus due to fibroids. My first question to her was why did you wait so long to seek treatment? Why didnt you have the surgery earlier? She replied, Nobody told me that I could have the surgery done without taking six or more weeks off work. If I take six weeks off work, I am going to lose my job and then my house, and my kids will be on the street. That patient is one of those who made me become a robotic surgeon, because I could see that robotic surgery could push the limits of laparoscopy and minimally invasive surgery to include patients who otherwise would not have a minimally invasive option. In robotic surgery, you have increased vision, more precision, and increased dexterity. Therefore, I saw the potential to do more complicated surgeries using a robot. At that time, I didnt know the degree that those limits could be pushed, but now, more than a thousand complex surgeries later, I have found that almost all patients, no matter how complex, could have a minimally invasive surgical option. Medgadget: What do you think are the main obstacles and challenges facing the adoption of robotic-assisted surgery? Dr. Orady: The biggest obstacles to the adoption of robotic-assisted surgery have been two things: first, the cost, and second, the training. You are talking to someone who has been very involved with residency education and training. I helped develop the curriculum for residents training at the Cleveland Clinic. I implemented it, and I helped train the residents in the program in minimally invasive surgery using a combination of didactic teaching, laboratory simulation, and hands on training. The issue with robotic-assisted surgery training is that there is really a dichotomy. You dont only have to learn how to use the instrument, but you also need to learn how to perform the surgery. When we train during residency, and almost in all of the training centers, everybody focuses on manual dexterity and getting to learn the tool. However, just as important, and even more important, is the understanding of surgery as an art. If you are teaching someone how to paint, you dont give him a brush and tell him how to use the paint and what colors to dip in. You have to teach him the concept of 3D depth perception, what lies underneath the surface, the lighting, shadows, etcetera. It is the same way with surgery. We should teach the principles of hemostasis, dissection techniques, and how to avoid traumatizing tissue, etc. It is an unfortunate reality that in most Obstetrics and Gynecology residencies, there is so much to learn in four years obstetrics, gynecology, primary care, office procedures, robotic surgery and often, one of the things that get neglected is surgical techniques. This is the reason that the advent and demand for Minimally Invasive Surgical Fellowships is increasing, and the need for the specialty to split as so many others have done, is becoming more apparent. Medgadget: What are some of the technical/logistic factors that restrict the performance of robotic-assisted surgery? Dr. Orady: Lets first talk about what some people working in the field of robotic surgery usually point out as missing or restricting factors, and then, talk about what I personally want when I perform a robotic-assisted surgery. A lot of surgeons point out the fact that in robotic assisted surgery, you dont have haptic feedback. You lose the sense of touch. To me, that has never been a big issue because once you have done so many cases, it become very easy to obtain the ability to feel through an alternate sense of vision, so called visual hepatics, so I dont consider that as an issue. The issue of the size of the robot and trying to dock it has been improved with newer models. Some of the newer surgical robots that are being developed are smaller, slimmer, and equipped with longer arms to reach the surgery site while allowing the staff to access the patient in an easier way. In terms of energy, I believe all robotic companies need to focus on their energy application. I helped write an article about the future of energy, and in my opinion, while sticking to just traditional monopolar and bipolar energy is okay. But, robotic companies really need to get into the advanced bipolar energy, I am not talking about the sealing, cutting techniques, but I am talking about advanced impedance detection, with a pulsed waveform, and adjusting the type and output of energy to the tissue reaction. We have seen that Intuitive Surgical had the PK energy in their Si system and took it off their new Xi system. I believe that is a mistake, as we should never go backwards and should always try to move towards using more advanced energy for our patients. Medgadget: What is the one thing you wish you had every time you sit down at your da Vinci console? Dr. Orady: Without question I wish for smaller instruments. Eight millimeters is still pretty big, especially since I perform Microlaparoscopical and Minilaparoscopical surgery. I use 3 millimeters instruments in traditional laparoscopic procedures. Jumping from 3 millimeters almost a scarless incision to 8 millimeters incision is what sometimes steers me more down the laparoscopy route rather than the robotic-assisted route. The second thing that I wish I had is a dedicated and trained team. A dedicated robotic team is one of the most important things for efficiency in a robotic-assisted procedure. The robot is different than other traditional surgical procedures. Its a computer-based product, there is a lot of troubleshooting going on, and you have to be able to work through and fix error messages efficiently. Therefore, to optimize the function of the robot, you need someone who is really savvy in adjusting things perfectly and quickly. Medgadget: Intuitive Surgical has had virtually no competitors for the last decade. Do you think this will change anytime soon? Dr. Orady: It definitely will change. It cannot stay like that forever. The da Vinci robot has been around since 1999, so almost 20 years. New robotic companies have been working on their robots for maybe 10 years or more; although, none of them have been FDA approved yet but some are very close. [Note: this interview was conducted prior to the FDA clearance of Senhance from TransEnterix] In fact, an alternate system is currently being used in Europe and may be FDA approved within the next few weeks to months. The question is, will they catch up? Maybe, and most likely, probably. Intuitive Surgical hasnt really innovated that much in the last 10 years. They almost kept everything the same, and even as I mentioned before, have gone backwards in some instances, like taking away advanced bipolar energy from their new Xi system. Also, Intuitive Surgical is focusing more on moving towards single port surgery instead of focusing on smaller instruments. In my opinion, this may not necessarily be to right direction, since with single port surgery, you end up with a bigger, more painful incision, and studies have shown that. I believe future robotic companies that will focus on smaller incisions, while maintaining the precision and vision, are the ones that will succeed in the future. Medgadget: What is the future of robotic surgery? Do you think Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play a role in robotic-assisted surgery? Are we moving towards more automation during these types of surgeries? Dr. Orady: I believe tissue is very dynamic. There are too many variables the strength of the tissue, the texture, and how it stretches and reacts to tension and energy is extremely variable patient to patient. Its too much data to input at the moment to believe that AI can completely take over. Artificial intelligence will definitely help guide our hands and eyes while we are performing the procedure using overlapped imaging or other detection methods. I believe that in very specific procedures, like placing stents or in valvuloplasty, where it is a fairly straightforward procedure with minimal steps, we might see more automation utilizing artificial intelligence. However, in terms of intra-abdominal pelvic surgery, the variability and dynamic variation in anatomy make these types of surgical procedures really complicated to be able to automate. It is difficult enough to teach human brains how to adjust to variables in anatomy and the dynamic aspects of tissue reaction and to adjust and vary technique for each individual case as the case progresses. Thus, outside of using AI to help locate anatomy or teach people how to adjust to the dynamic movement of the tissue, it would be difficult to rely on it to actually perform the procedures. I am never going to say never, but I believe the amount of investment you have to put in will far exceed the cost of investing in training good surgeons and teaching them how to use the information that we can obtain using advanced imaging and advanced energy to simply perform better, more accurate, and less invasive surgery. Also, I believe what will happen in the future in surgery is consolidation. We cant teach a hundred thousand physicians to perform hundreds of procedures. I think every person is going to be really good at a few things and just repeat those procedures. Repetition is key. If you take surgeons and make them repeat the same surgery over and over again, they are going to get better. If you do a hysterectomy once a month versus ten a month, the improvement rate will be exponential. It is similar to a pianist who practices a piece of music daily versus once a month. Yes, robots will become more automated in doing certain things, like real-time imaging. But, will a surgery be performed completely by AI without a surgeon? I think right now we are too far away from this. Flashback: The Coming Future of Surgical Robotics: Interview with CEO of TransEnterix; TransEnterix Gets FDA Clearance for Senhance Surgical Robot Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have developed a portable 3D scanner that can help health workers to rapidly assess patients with elephantiasis, a condition that causes swollen limbs. The scanner allows medical professionals to measure the volume and dimensions of swollen limbs in the comfort of a patients home. Approximately 120 million people worldwide suffer from elephantiasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes that causes significant swelling and deformity of the legs. At present, health workers assess the severity of the disease using a measuring tape to determine the dimensions of the limb, but this is cumbersome and difficult to standardize as the skin can be bumpy and uneven because of the swelling. The current gold-standard assessment technique involves patients submerging each leg in a water bath, and based on the volume of water they displace, doctors can calculate the volume of the legs. However, this approach is impractical in the home, and requires a visit to a clinic or hospital, something that can be difficult for swollen patients and those in remote, low-resource settings. The Washington University team developed a small infrared sensor that can be mounted onto a tablet computer. The system uses technology similar to that found in some video game systems, which allow gamers to control a game using gestures and body movements. The device can rapidly scan a patients legs, and produce a virtual 3-D reconstruction of the legs. The software can calculate leg dimensions and volumes at least as accurately as the tape measure or water bath techniques. The most encouraging news is that the scanner produced highly accurate results in only a fraction of the time of the other tests, said Philip Budge, an assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Washington University. The scanning tool also offers convenience, said Budge. Many patients with swollen limbs often have great difficulty traveling from their homes to the clinic to have their measurements taken. The scanner should make it possible to take extremely accurate limb measurements in the patients homes or villages, without cumbersome equipment or inconveniencing patients. Study in The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene: Use of a Novel Portable Three-Dimensional Scanner to Measure Limb Volume and Circumference in Patients with Filarial Lymphedema Via: Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis by Tanya Gazdik , October 17, 2017 Businesses are joining together to donate a portion of sales to fire relief efforts. Using the hashtag #CAWineStrong, winery tasting rooms, breweries, restaurants, hotels and other wine-loving businesses throughout California have committed to donating a portion of their sales during the balance of October. A dedicated website details the effort, including a list of participating businesses. Wildfires have raged in Mendocino, Napa, and Sonoma counties, killing at least 41 people. In the last week, the fires have scorched more than 200,000 acres, destroyed or damaged more than 5,500 homes and displaced 100,000 people, according to the Los Angeles Times. Airbnb is waiving service fees to allow hosts to offer their homes near the affected areas to those in need of shelter. Local hotels, including the Westin in San Francisco, are lowering their prices for first responders and evacuees. The Days Inn and Suites in Antioch is offering free rooms to evacuees and first responders. advertisement advertisement Verizon is operating a text-to-donate campaign whereby wireless customers can contribute to relief and recovery efforts. Users can make a $10 donation to the Red Cross by texting CAWILDFIRES to 90999. Users can donate up to 10 times. Verizon is waiving any text messaging fees for disaster relief and 100% of each donation goes to American Red Cross relief efforts. The company is also giving its affected subscribers talk, text and data relief. Russian River Brewing Company and King Ridge Foundation have raised more than $125,000 for victims of the Sonoma County Wildfires. Bear Republic Brewing Co. is joining with the above to brew a Sonoma Pride release. Sonoma Pride was originally conceptualized by Natalie and Vinnie Cilurzo from Russian River Brewing Company in July 2015 to celebrate Sonoma County. However, under the dire circumstances Sonoma County is facing, the brewing company has redirected the use of the Sonoma Pride name to help those in need after the tragic fires. Bear Republic is are currently working on additional collaborations to be brewed with other Sonoma County breweries to support the victims and firefighters of the wildfires. Bear Republics brewpubs are offering free meals to the first responders involved with the local fires at both restaurant locations in Healdsburg and Rohnert Park, Calif. Many of the Bear Republic family members have lost their homes and have little to rely on. For the next 30 days, 50 cents on every case of Bear Republic beer sold will be donated to raise funds to help those affected. We are reaching out to our wholesalers and asking for their support through matching funds up to 50 cents per case or a one-time donation, according to a statement by the company. Many distributors nationwide also are committing to the cause, according to the brewery. by Wayne Friedman , October 17, 2017 Traditional pay TV video profitability has increasingly become more troublesome, says one media analyst. That could mean the possibility of dropping some cable network groups entirely. Todd Juenger, senior media analyst for Bernstein Research, says this might be the case when with Charter Communications' ongoing carriage battle with Viacom. With each passing year, the math moves in the direction of dropping networks, because video sub profitability is decreasing. ... In fact, our math continues to show that, if nothing changes, average video sub profitability reaches $0 in the year 2023, he writes. Juenger says for Charter, the estimated video subscriber generates approximately $16/month of profit contribution, against Viacom networks, which costs about $3.15 per subscriber/month on average. If Charter believes it can drop Viacom and not lose more than 16.4% incremental video subs, then they should drop Viacom, he says. advertisement advertisement Long-term, pay TV providers should consider not taking on an entire roster of networks from a single TV network group -- at a loss -- especially when so many OTT options now exist. Some big pay TV companies like Comcast may be an exception, he adds. We continue to see Viacom as most vulnerable, he adds. TV network groups -- Walt Disney, Fox, NBCUniversal, and Turner -- are paid more, but are riskier to drop, he adds. Other pure-play cable network groups -- Discovery Communications, AMC Networks and A+E Networks -- are paid a lot less than Viacom. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, October 17, 2017 Federal judges lack authority to order President Donald Trump to unblock people who criticize him on Twitter, the Department of Justice argues in new court papers. "It would flout the separation of powers for the Court to issue an order limiting the Presidents discretion in managing his Twitter account," the DOJ says in a motion asking U.S. District Court Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald in New York to throw out a lawsuit brought by a group of people who were blocked by Trump on Twitter. The DOJ's arguments come in response to a lawsuit filed in July seven blocked Twitter users and Columbia University's Knight First Amendment Institute. The lawsuit alleges that their free speech rights were violated by the Twitter blocks. Twitter users who are blocked from Trump's account can't view the tweets or replies while logged in. But if those users sign out of Twitter, they may still be able to view the posts. Blocked users are also restricted from commenting in some threads -- although there are workarounds. advertisement advertisement The blocked users allege that Trump's Twitter account is a "public forum," meaning it's comparable to city streets or public parks -- locales where the government can't censor speech based on people's views. In addition to Trump, the users are also suing Director of Social Media Daniel Scavino and former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer. The users are asking Buchwald to declare the blocks unconstitutional, and to order the White House to unblock them. The DOJ says it's entitled to summary judgment for several reasons. Among them, DOJ contends that courts lack the authority to order the president to engage in "discretionary" conduct. "Just as courts cannot enjoin Congress in exercising its legislative function, they cannot enjoin the President in exercising the executive function," the DOJ argues. The DOJ also says Trump's Twitter account, which he created in 2009, while still a private citizen, isn't a public forum, but a channel for him to express his views. "To conclude that the Presidents own account is a public forum for private speech merely because other users may post tweets replying to him would transform any public appearance by a government official into a public forum on government property, and thereby subject the officials choices to a prohibition on viewpoint-based distinctions," the DOJ says. "If that were the case, then a congressman would be prohibited from pre-screening questions at a symposium hosted by a non-profit." Trump isn't the only public official facing suit for allegedly violating people's free speech rights by blocking them on social media. Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and Maine Governor Paul LePage also were sued recently over allegations that they blocked critics on Twitter or Facebook. Questions about whether these blocks violate the constitution have not been definitively resolved by the appellate courts. But this summer, a federal district court judge ruled that a local official in Virginia violated a resident's First Amendment rights by briefly blocking him on Facebook. by Jess Nelson , October 17, 2017 The United States Supreme Court agreed Monday to hear arguments in a major digital privacy case that may decide whether a U.S. warrant extends to emails stored overseas. The case originates from a 2013 dispute between Microsoft and the Department of Justice over emails linked to a drug-trafficking case. U.S. prosecutors demanded all emails related to the case, and Microsoft handed over all information that had been stored on servers in the United States, abiding by the 1986 Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA). The ECPA is the law that currently governs digital communication in the United States, including email messages. The antiquated legislation -- now over thirty years old -- was passed before the rise of cloud-based storage and decrees that any communication over 180 days old can be seized by law enforcement with a subpoena. A subpoena can be issued by a government agency and does not require a Judges signature, or proof of guilt. advertisement advertisement The ECPA does not address communication stored overseas, and some emails pertaining to the 2013 case were stored on Microsoft servers in Ireland. Microsoft sued to block the warrant, arguing that the seizure of evidence held in another country by U.S. authorities could set a dangerous precedent. If that were to occur, what would stop foreign governments form doing the same thing to companies with data stored in the United States? A U.S. District Judge first ruled in favor of the Department of Justice in 2014, but then the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit in New York reversed the order to rule in Microsofts favor. Now the case is headed to the Supreme Court, with the Justices expected to hear arguments in June. The Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT) has filed briefs in support of Microsofts position, arguing that digital privacy should be addressed by Congress and not decided by the courts. Proposed bills to reform the Electronic Communications Act have garnered widespread bipartisan support in Congress over the past few years, but a law has never come to fruition. by Larissa Faw , October 17, 2017 Beam Suntory and its agency Preacher are simultaneously launching two new campaigns to promote its Irish whiskey brands: The Tyrconnell and Kilbeggan. Both seek to showcase the brands as spirits to enjoy year round and not just on festive occasions, like St Patricks Day. Tyrconnell and Kilbeggan are produced out of the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland, Kilbeggan Distilling Co. The campaigns try to differentiate the brands by highlighting the rich, longstanding histories of both whiskeys. Kilbeggans campaign, We Are Kilbeggan, highlights the bond between its hometown and the distillery by celebrating local residents. The Tyrconnell Brave or Else campaign teaches the viewer about the brand's namesake, a chestnut colt belonging to one R. M. Delemere. Tyrconnell, said to have defied the greatest of odds by besting horses and oddsmakers alike at the National Produce Stakes horse race in 1876. advertisement advertisement Online films debuted this summer to target influencers and distributors. Now, the campaigns are expanding to additional media, including print, point-of-sale signage and newly designed sites, to coincide with the holiday season. While it may seem like two simultaneous campaigns for similar brands from the same company might cannibalize one other, Preacher says each competes in different spheres of whiskeys. The Tyrconnell is a single malt, making it a competitor with Scotch whisky and other single malts that demand a higher price point. Kilbeggan and Kilbeggan Single Grain, by comparison, are blends competing with brands like Jameson. Further, Irish whiskey is currently one of the fastest-growing spirits category, following much in the trajectory of bourbon and craft beer. As such, the number of Irish whiskey distilleries is said to be growing from just a handful to over 30 in the next four years. New entrants are introducing their products to keep up with increasing consumer demand. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, October 17, 2017 Amazon, Netflix and a coalition of Hollywood studios are suing over-the-top device manufacturer TickBox for allegedly enabling copyright infringement. "What TickBox actually sells is nothing less than illegal access to Plaintiffs copyrighted content," the studios allege in a complaint filed Friday in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles. "The device provides the hallmarks of subscribing to authorized streaming services, with one notable exception: the customers only pay money to TickBox, not to Plaintiffs and other content creators upon whose works TickBoxs business depends." TickBox says on its website that users can "effortlessly connect" the gadget to their TV sets, turn it on, "and explore the largest online media library on the planet." advertisement advertisement The company also boasts that its service will let users stop "wasting money with online streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime." The site adds in small print that TickBox "should not be utlized [sic] to download or stream any copyrighted content without permission from the copyright holder." Amazon, Netflix and the studios are asking U.S. District Court Judge Percy Anderson to prohibit TickBox from infringing copyright, and to impound the company's devices. The content companies also are seeking damages of at least $150,000 per work infringed. It is common for cancer to unexpectedly recur after a patient is cleared of the disease. New research sheds light on why this happens, zooming in on the bodys immune system. Share on Pinterest T cells are normally able to attack cancer cells (shown here), but new research finds that residual malignant cells can subvert T cells vigilance. The new research was a collaborative effort among scientists at the Institute of Cancer Research in London, the Leeds Institute of Cancer and Pathology, and the University of Surrey in Guildford all of which are in the United Kingdom and researchers from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. The Mayo Clinics Tim Kottke is the first author of the study, and the findings have been published in the journal Cancer Immunology Research. Kottke and his colleagues set out to investigate why cancer recurs after many years of tumor latency. As the authors explain, understanding and preventing this phenomenon is highly important because usually, when the cancer recurs, it does so unpredictably and more aggressively than the first time. This happens because the cancer becomes resistant to treatment. As the authors note, knowing how the recurrent tumors differ from the initial ones, as well as what triggers them, would enable clinicians to intervene in a more timely and effective manner. How cancer cells subvert the immune cells To gain a better understanding of these aspects, Kottke and colleagues designed a mouse model of cancer dormancy. After treating mice that had cancer with chemotherapy, the rodents seemed cured for between 40 and 150 days. However, after a longer follow-up period, some of them developed late, aggressive local recurrences, mimicking the clinical situation in multiple tumor types. After performing several experiments in vivo and in cell cultures, the researchers put this relapse down to the subversion of two main elements of the immune system: the so-called TNF-alpha chemical, and natural killer (NK) cells. First and foremost, they showed that after treatment, the residual cancer cells subverted the TNF-alpha chemical signal by turning it from an anti-tumor, immune-supporting agent into a growth factor for the disease. Secondly, they unraveled the mechanism that weakens the surveillance abilities of both T cells and NK immune cells. The scientists found that resistant malignant cells are covered with a large amount of a molecule called PD-L1, which, in turn, interacts with another molecule called PD-1 on immune cells, instructing the T cells not to attack. So, Kottke and his team gave the mice a PD-1 or TNF-alpha inhibitor intravenously and found that long-term treatment [] effectively slowed, or prevented, recurrence. 1. You'll be bright-eyed and raring to goeven at 3 PM. If you're totally spent by midafternoon, a stretch break will invigorate you in less time than it would take for a barista to whip up your usual mocha venti skim latte. Just a few minutes of stretching increases blood flow through your entire bodyincluding your brain, says Jennifer Warthan, a certified personal trainer in Surry, VA. "It wakes you up and helps you feel le 2. You'll be less likely to trip and fall. A recent study tested 42 college students to see whether stretching would impact how long they could stay on a contraption called a stabilometer. The students who stretched for 30 minutes beforehand were able to balance longer than those who sat quietly before they hopped aboard. Researchers think stretching could help with fine-muscle coordinationmeaning those who stretched first might have been able to avoid a tumble by making small balance adjustment. 3. You'll move around more easily and with less pain. Regular stretching can relieve stiff muscles and creaky joints, but to reap those benefits, it's important to stretch the correct way. " Avoid the static stretch , or 'stretch and hold,'" says Michael Ross, MD, medical director for Rothman Institute Performance Lab. "Focus on mobility by doing range-of-motion exercises and soft tissue work with foam rollers ." Range-of-motion exercises include shoulder shrugs, wrist bends, and knee liftsanything that keeps your muscles and joints moving through (you guessed it!) their full range of motion. 4. You'll make the most of your sweat session. Unless you're a yogi or a barre aficionado, flexibility may not seem like a huge priority. But regular stretching can help you achieve better form in just about any workout: "For something like a squat, it means you could get a deeper squat. Your knees and hip flexors will bend farther," Warthan says. "You'll get more out of the workout." 5. You might be less likely to injure yourself. The scientific evidence on this one is iffy , but incorporating stretching into your warm-upnever try to stretch cold musclesmight help your body get ready for exercise as well as switch your brain into "workout mode," says Charles Drass, a certified personal trainer in Marlton, NJ. "Stretching can't totally eliminate injury, but it could certainly help from a mindset perspective" by getting you more focused so you're less likely to make an ouch-inducing misstep. Try a few minutes of dynamic stretching , like arm circles and lunges, before you really get going. 17.10.2017 LISTEN On Wednesday, 18th October, 2017, the vice-president, Alhaji Mahammudu Bawumia, will inaugurate the new national digital addressing system that is said to divide the world into 5 cm squares. Interesting. The adoption of that digital national addressing system is a huge leap forward for our nation. Unfortunately, however, the company that Dr. Bawumia incorrectly says invented the new digital addressing system (probably because he has obviously been misinformed), Vokacom, of Dansoman, apparently, owes Ghanaians an explanation or two. One wonders whether or not the Vokacom genuises are aware of the fact that the actual original inventor of the digital addressing system that they are making claims of having invented, Giles Rhys Jones, is actually offering it for free to the world as an app that can freely be downloaded online for use worldwide at the Google play store - and that as we speak it is already in use in Ghana by a number of international companies, NGOs and private individuals? Ditto in the Ivory Coast, Togo and Nigeria? Furthermore, the geniuses at Vokacom must tell Ghanaians exactly what connection they have, if any, with the original inventor of the UK-based "what3words" digital addressing system, Giles Rhys Jones. Ditto why hapless Ghanaian taxpayers have to fork out as much as US$2.5 million for the code of a digital "what3words" addressing system that Ghana can pay a relatively small amount to access to Giles Rhys Jones in order to use it for a national digital addressing system? As an old wag I know said to me: "Either the Vokacom people pirated "what3words'" invention or paid to use its code and then modified the original division of the planet Earth into 3 cm squares (by the actual inventor Giles Rhys Jones) to 5 cm squares instead in order to enable them get away with pirating it. Bawumia hasn't a clue. How can he say Vokacom invented the "what3word" digital addressing system? What nonsense. And is he even aware of the fact that Ghana could have paid a relatively small amount to "what3words" to utilise its code for Ghana's national digital addressing system? Why are our politicians so ignorant, Kofi?" Well, my friend the old wag can rest easy: My new weekend newspaper, The National Review, which comes out at the end of October, 2017, all things being equal, will get to the bottom of this particular matter for sure - as sure as day follows night: and if there has been any profiteering in this public procurement contract, we shall expose it when we finally start publication. Period. Some us are thoroughly fed up with Mother Ghana being constantly ripped off by our vampire-elites. Haaba. The genuises at Vokacom must also tell Ghanaians how they came to win the new national digital addressing system public procurement contract - and when exactly they won the said contract. Hmm, Ghana - eyeasem sebe o. Asem kesie ebebe debi ankasa! Finally, the National Review (motto: Truth pursued relentlessly - and fearlessly reported!) will fight high-level corruption in Ghana in creative fashion - and expose the powerful and greedy people bleeding Mother Ghana slowly to death. Enough is enough. Haaba. President Nana Akufo-Addo has commended Ivory Coast President Allasane Ouattara for respecting the ruling of the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) between the two countries. Addressing the Ivorian President and his delegation at the Flagstaff House in Accra Monday, Nana Akufo-Addo said the resolution of the dispute by ITLOS presents an opportunity to bring the two countries together. He believes it will forge a stronger economic tie between Ghana and Ivory Coast. The long wait was over last month as ITLOS accepted Ghanas arguments in the maritime dispute with Ivory Coast. Ghana argued that the equidistance principle is used in delimiting the maritime boundary between the two countries. Whilst the tribunal rejected Ghanas claim that the Ivory Coast is estopped from making a claim for the disputed territory because of prior conduct, the Chamber equally rejected Ivory Coasts claim that a meridian measurement is used. To this end, the President Akufo-Addo believes there is a bright future ahead of the two countries. Ghanaians continue to be very supportive of all the initiatives that there are to improve the ties with your county. We realize that there is a delicate moment when it came to this dispute over our maritime border but your statesmanship, friendship and regard for the interest of our two countries made it possible for us to over the delicate moment, he said. President Akufo-Addo added that President Ouattara's used the ruling as a basis to form a stronger relationship with Ghana instead of feeling upset about losing out. President Ouattara also indicated his countrys readiness to work with Ghana towards strengthening ties between the two countries. He thanked Ghana for taking in some Ivorians during the political unrest in his country acknowledging it is not an easy thing to do. Mr Ouattara also took advantage of his visit to call on Ivoirians in Ghana to return home to develop the economy of Ivory Coast. Story by Ghana| Myjoyonline | Abubakar Ibrahim | [email protected] The government has pledged to give strong support to technical universities and polytechnics to raise the quality of their training, to drive the nations industrialization. Deputy Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, said: we cannot underestimate the place of technical university and polytechnic training in the countrys onward march towards prosperity. It was on the basis of this that the government was determined to give sufficient attention to technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to churn out products with the needed practical application of knowledge or technical skills that were structured to meet our economic and social challenges. Speaking at the 12th congregation held by the Kumasi Technical University (KTU) in Kumasi, he asked that these institutions aligned their programmes to address the development needs of the country. A total of 2,569 students, made up of 1,543 males and 1,016 females graduated, and were awarded degree and higher national diploma certificates. They pursued among others, programmes in chemical engineering, electrical, automobile, plant, metallurgy and foundry engineering, creative arts and technology, estate management, interior architecture and furniture production, dispensing technology, hotel catering and institutional management, computer science, purchasing and supply, accountancy and accounting with computing. Dr. Adutwum indicated that the nation required well-trained manpower with the requisite skills and competencies from this sector of education to lead its industrial growth. He made reference to the industrialized world and said the ratio in the distribution formula of the labour force generally shows that the technical work-force with practical skills greatly out-numbers those with raw knowledge. The Minister added that, technical universities in Ghana, just like their counterparts anywhere, must take their rightful place in finding solutions to challenges. Professor Asiamah Yeboah, the acting Vice Chancellor of the University, appealed to the government to review the working conditions of the staff to prevent them from leaving in search of greener pastures. He warned that brain drain could defeat the very purpose for which the polytechnics were converted to technical universities. He said it was time priority was focused on technical and vocational education to provide the skilled manpower for the nations socio-economic development. Midrand (South Africa) (AFP) - Though its motto is "one Africa, one voice", the reality of "Africa's parliament" could not be more different. Since its creation in 2004, the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has struggled to make its voice heard, prompting its deputies to ask themselves at a recent gathering: "What are we for?" "Every time we're here, we obsess over the same things. If we are not making laws, then what's the point of being here?" Corneille Padonou of Benin said to his fellow parliamentarians. "This forum is not a parliament, it is just a discussion platform that does not have any legislative powers. This institution is still wobbly," said Floyd Shivambu, a parliamentarian from South Africa. "As it is, it is a waste of resources." The PAP, which is headquartered in South Africa, currently has 229 parliamentarians from 51 countries appointed from among those nation's own parliaments. On paper, the assembly is the legislative branch of the African Union (AU). But in reality it merely has consultative powers. "Its role is essentially limited to making recommendations," said the parliament's Chadian deputy secretary general Gali Massa Harou. The Malabo Protocol issued in 2014 was intended to be a game changer, giving the PAP sweeping legislative powers -- but the document was never adopted after receiving formal support from just five countries of the required 28. 'What women want, God wants' "We really don't understand -- everyone here is happy for this (agreement) to be ratified" but nothing is happening, said Algerian delegate Mohamed Tayeb Laskri during the PAP's most recent sitting in October. "At this rate, it's going to take us 20 years to sign the agreement," warned Laskri's Tanzanian colleague David Silinde to applause from his fellow parliamentarians. Without any real power, the PAP has effectively become a smoking room for friends, according to Egyptian member Moustafa El Gindy. The headquarters are in Midrand, an industrial town half way between Pretoria and Johannesburg, temporarily located beside a convention centre. Even sat navs struggle to find it. With an annual budget of $22 million (18.6 million euros), the PAP meets twice a year for sessions that require 60 interpreters. Parliamentarians' home countries cover the costs of flights, accommodation and food. On the issue of getting the parliament's law-making powers rubber stamped, one representative from Mali came up with a novel idea during the October session. "If we had female deputies going to each of the countries, then we'd come back with agreements," said a visibly pumped-up Mamedi Sidibe. "What women want, God wants." President of the Pan African Parliament Cameroonian Roger Nkodo Dang delivering a speechin France in 2015 Wearing a black and gold robe, the parliament speaker, Cameroon's Roger Nkodo Dang, made an impassioned plea to the assembled delegates. "Don't blame anyone like this. I don't think women would have different results." "It's down to you, Mr Speaker, to take action to find a solution," retorted another member. That prompted a tart reply from the speaker who suggested "that it would be nice if you went to (lobby) in your own country". But the parliament faces an uphill struggle to secure the greater recognition and powers it craves. No reason to be afraid "(Countries) are fearful of losing their sovereignty and suffering interference from overseas," said Egyptian parliament member Moustafa El Gindy, adding that the AU is three-quarters funded by international donors, including the European Union. But the parliament's speaker insists that the AU member states have no reason to be afraid. "There are a lot of policies that the PAP can legislate on (like terrorism and climate change) without infringing on the areas reserved for the states themselves," he told AFP. But without the power to take concrete action, the parliament is doomed to continue as a talking shop. One parliamentarian called for an end to economic migration, another praised the recent move by the United States to lift sanctions on Sudan, while the speaker accused the International Criminal Court for only prosecuting blacks. As a result of its toothlessness, the parliament has suffered from a lack of recognition and struggled to raise awareness, both among the people of Africa and further afield. Member countries even refuse to recognise the Pan-African passports issued to the parliamentarians -- a major gripe on the floor of the chamber. Nkodo Dang, the speaker, is also highly critical of the AU leadership in Addis Ababa itself, saying only one AU commission chief, Jean Ping, "took the time to speak to the parliament". A Banking consultant and Head of the Osei Tutu II Centre for Executive Education and Research, Nana Otuo Acheampong, has downplayed the need for any probe of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, following a transaction in the UK that prompted speculation that he may have been involved in money laundering. Breached regulations within the Ghana International Bank were noted when a transaction was carried out in August 2016, on behalf of the Asantehene, reportedly involving 350,000. The bank official involved, Mark Arthur, was subsequently suspended and later sacked for not following anti-money laundering rules. Before a tribunal, where he is alleging wrongful dismissal, among others, Mark Arthur alleged that Otumfuo O sei Tutu II, the holder of a diplomatic passport, told him the cash had been withdrawn from banks in Ghana and brought to the UK. Despite the amount in question, Mr. Otuo Acheampong noted on Eyewitness News that there was no need for regulatory authorities like the Financial Intelligence Centre to pursue the matter because of the allegations. As an example, Financial institutions are to report all cash transactions within Ghana with a threshold of GH20,000, or amounts as may be determined by the BOG from time to time, to the Financial Intelligence Centre. The Financial Intelligence Centre is mandated by law to request, receive, analyse, interpret and disseminate financial intelligence in Ghana and abroad. Preferential treatment But Mr. Otuo Acheampong said customers could be treated differently, therefore, whilst it [an amount] may be too much for me, because of my record, it may be okay for you because of your record. He couldn't speak to whether there was permission sought or whether it was given for the alleged transactions by the Asantehene, but he said, as far as the Ghanaian authorities are concerned, nothing sinister has been brought against the king. As far as the British authorities are concerned, nothing has been brought against him. At the core is the breach of internal procedures at the Ghana International Bank, Mr. Otuo Acheampong added, thus, the Financial Intelligence Centre did not necessarily have to look into the matter. He also reminded that we don't know whether even that money was sourced in the UK or was sourced in Ghana. What you are alluding to is what the claimant [Mark Athur] proffered. The Ghana International Bank has since said there has been no suggestion of money laundering allegations in its litigation with its former employee, Mark. Arthur. By: Delali Adogla-Bessa/citifmonline.com/Ghana NGOs in Health have called on the Health Ministry to probe circumstances under which President of the National Diabetes Association of Ghana Elizabeth Denyoh undersupplied free diabetes drugs to hospitals. The call follows a Joy News expose revealing how officials selected by the Association to distribute free insulin and glucometers sold it to poor patients. The Association signed a memorandum of understanding with donor agency, the International Diabetes Federation to provide free insulin for diabetic children under the Life-For-A-Child programme. But officials selected by the diabetes Association to distribute the free insulin sold strips and glucometers to patients who are unaware that they should be free. President of NGOs in Health, Gilbert Bernaku, told Joy News the Health Ministry, headed by Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, must streamline activities under its supervision. If you dont have coordinated efforts, these are some of the shortcomings that can happen in any particular sector, and for that matter the health service sector. We think that more investigation should be done...we think that the Ministry must make a strong intervention to ensure that we have clean up in the health sector, he said. President of the National Diabetes Association of Ghana, Elizabeth Denyoh (R) The Life-For-A-Child programme partners with diabetic centres in about 42 lower-income countries to provide insulin and syringes, blood glucose monitoring equipment and test strips, clinical care, HbA1c testing, diabetes education, workshops, camps, resources as well as support for health professionals. The investigation conducted by Joy News Kwetey Nartey also revealed differences in figures of insulin sent to the National Diabetes Association and what was supplied to listed health facilities. In 2013, the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital got 240 strips instead of 730 and 20 lancets instead of 50. Checks also confirmed that the diabetic clinic at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital did not receive the full consignment as communicated by Madam Denyoh to the donor agency. Dr Emmanuel Ameyaw, who is in charge of the diabetes clinic at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and he told Kwetey that, When the consignment came, we realized that we didnt get the exact number that we were supposed to get. We got all the 50 for the meters, but we did not get about 490 of the strips and we did not get 30 of the lancets. Meanwhile, Madam Denyoh has explained that there was an 'unofficial' agreement to give some of the medication meant for children to adults. However, Kwetey also found out that figures to the donor agency were inflated. In reality, Madam Denyoh attends to 670 children, but on the record, she puts the figure at 712, and her defense is that the remaining medication is given to non-governmental organizations. This means that she diverted 772 out of 13,104 vials of insulin to unintended beneficiaries in 2015 and 756 out of 12,816 vials received from the donor in 2016. That is, in 2015 and 2016, a total of 1,528 vials of insulin were diverted from the supply meant for free distribution to children. The documentary will be aired on Joy News on TV on October 23rd and 24th at 6:30 PM Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com Jos (Nigeria) (AFP) - At least 29 people were killed in a new flare-up of violence in central Nigeria targeting people sheltered in a primary school, prompting President Muhammadu Buhari to issue an appeal to "stop the madness". The attack happened on Monday in Plateau state, which has been dogged for years by ethnic, sectarian and religious unrest. Sunday Audu, the head of the Irigwe Community Development Association, said armed men stormed the school in the village of Nkyie Doghwro, in the Bassa area of the state. Hundreds of local residents had sought refuge there for fear of reprisal attacks, after unidentified assailants killed six cattle herders on Sunday. "Our people were attacked... with 29 dead, three injured at a school used as a camp and protected by security," Audu told reporters in the Plateau state capital, Jos, on Monday. Plateau police spokesman Tyopev Terna confirmed the attack but declined to give a death toll. Audu blamed the killings on the mostly nomadic Fulani herdsmen, accusing them of being "in denial of sponsoring these attacks". But the head of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Bassa, Umaru Sangare, denied claims they were to blame. "We have no hand in the attack against the Irigwe, despite the fact that our six men were killed on Sunday and beheaded at Bajju village while grazing," he said. "We didn't take the law into our own hands but reported the incident to the military and police authorities and secured their permission to bury the decapitated bodies." Resource conflict Plateau state lies on the dividing line between Nigeria's mainly Christian south and the mostly Muslim north. It has seen sporadic violence and tensions for decades. The violence has been attributed to a battle for resources because of drought and desertification in northern Nigeria and the wider Sahel region, forcing herders further south. Farming communities, most of which are Christian, have complained the herdsmen, who are mainly Muslim, damage their fields and crops with their livestock. The problem is also linked to wider issues, with the farmers seen as "indigenous" and the herdsmen "foreigners", even if they have lived in the area for generations. Fulani leaders say they are deprived of basic rights, such as access to land, education and even political office. Tensions frequently boil over and more than 10,000 people have been killed in the state since the turn of the century, according to groups tracking the violence. Last month, the International Crisis Group (ICG) warned in a report that the clashes threatened Nigeria's national security and were becoming as dangerous as Boko Haram Islamists. It called for more cooperation and the adoption of measures such as better rural security, designated grazing areas and conflict resolution programmes. Southern leaders, however, believe President Buhari lacks the political will to tackle the problem, as the Fulani are his kinsmen. A statement from Buhari's office on Monday night said he learned of the latest killings "with deep sadness and regret", giving the death toll as "at least 20". "This madness has gone too far," the emailed statement said. "(Buhari) has instructed the military and the police to not only bring the violence to an instant end, but to draw up a plan to ensure that there are no further attacks and reprisal attacks by one group against the other," it added. The Second Lady Samira Bawumia has rolled out a comprehensive sponsorship package to the 13 year old girl Ruth Ama Gyan Darkwa studying BSc in Mathematics at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi. The sponsorship package includes paying of her tuition, accommodation, food and medical expenses for her four year education at the university. The girl, a native of Anyimon, Berekum in the Brong-Ahafo Region lives at Prempeh College, Kumasi, where her father is a Senior Tutor. She was a student of the Christ Our Hope International School in Kumasi and later transitioned to the Abraham Lincoln Junior High School (JHS), where she wrote the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in JHS 1 at the Justice International School Asuofua in the Ashanti Region. She is the youngest ever to be admitted to the institution. Announcing the sponsorship package to the girl at the KNUST campus, the Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Bernard Antwi Boasiako said the government is determined to help any brilliant student to achieve his or her goal irrespective of ones political background. The second lady is proud of you as been the youngest girl to be admitted to the university, you have shown that women are capable of doing what men cannot do. In view this Her Excellency, the Second Lady is paying for all your tuition, accommodation, food and medical expenses throughout your four years stay in campus, he stressed. Ruth Ama Gyan Dankwa expressed her appreciation to the Second and the NPP government for the package and believes that will urge her on to study hard to achieve her goal of becoming like Professor Francis Kofi Ampenyin Allotey, a renowned GhanaianMathematician and Scientist. I thank the Second lady very much for this kind of sponsorship and I also urge my fellow girls not to joke with their books to attain greater heights in life, she advised. The conversations caught on wiretaps planted by the Turkish police are alleged to show a conspiracy to help Iran skirt American sanctions by trading gold for gas. The recordings also suggest that the plotters aimed to please one man: Recep Tayyip Erdogan, then the prime minister of Turkey, now the president. The Erdogan government has dismissed the telephone recordings as fabrications concocted in 2013 by treasonous adversaries who had infiltrated the Turkish police and judiciary. But United States prosecutors have taken a different view. They have cited the 2013 Turkish investigation in court papers filed in New York where nine men including a senior Turkish bank official have been charged with conspiring to evade American sanctions on Iran. The sanctions case has strained relations between the United States and Turkey, and drawn repeated condemnation from Mr. Erdogan. He has often raised it with American officials, including in a telephone call with President Trump on Sept. 9. A day earlier, Mr. Erdogan described the indictment as a step against the Turkish Republic. And in recent days, as tensions between the countries grew worse amid a diplomatic dispute over Turkeys detention of a United States Embassy employee, Turkish officials justified their actions by equating them to the embargo charges in New York. You will arrest my banks deputy general manager for no reason, and will try another citizen of mine for two years, and want to use him as an informant, Mr. Erdogan said in speech on Thursday in which he defended the American employees arrest. A close reading, however, of a lengthy summary of the Turkish investigation, which prosecutors have filed in Federal District Court in Manhattan and which includes excerpts from transcripts of the wiretap recordings, suggests that Mr. Erdogans objections may involve more than just patriotism. In several of the conversations, the records show, three of the men now charged discuss meeting with Mr. Erdogan and acting, as one puts it, on the prime ministers order to increase Turkish trade. Photo Reza Zarrab, center, in Istanbul in 2013. Mr. Zarrab, a Turkish-Iranian gold trader, was arrested last year and remains in jail in Manhattan. CreditOzan Kose/Agence France-Presse Getty Images The excerpts, a copy of which has been translated independently by The New York Times, do not suggest that Mr. Erdogan was aware of any illegal activity, and he is neither named nor referred to in an American indictment filed last month. But they offer evidence that Mr. Erdogan, back in 2013, was meeting regularly with several of the men at the height of their suspected sanctions busting. One question now is whether one or more of the defendants two of whom are jailed in New York and scheduled for trial on Nov. 27 might still plead guilty and cooperate with the United States authorities in the hope of winning leniency in sentencing. Im sure Erdogan worries about that, and Im sure he worries about what could come out at trial, said Eric S. Edelman, a former United States ambassador to Turkey. Either one could be very damaging to him. The case currently centers on three men, all of whom knew Mr. Erdogan personally. Reza Zarrab, a Turkish-Iranian gold trader, is suspected of having helped the Turkish government bypass United States sanctions on Iranian trade by using gold and other nonmonetary goods to pay for Iranian gas. American prosecutors say that Mr. Zarrab was helped by Zafer Caglayan, then Turkeys economy minister, and Suleyman Aslan, at the time the chief executive of a state-owned Turkish bank. Mr. Caglayan and Mr. Aslan are not in custody of either the United States or Turkey; Mr. Zarrab has been jailed in the United States since March 2016, after being arrested during a family trip to Disney World. Mr. Zarrab has enlisted a team of high-profile lawyers to assist in his defense, among them Rudolph W. Giuliani , the former mayor of New York and an informal adviser to Mr. Trump, and Michael B. Mukasey, a former United States attorney general. They have met with Mr. Erdogan and senior Trump administration officials in an effort to resolve the case as a diplomatic matter. Mr. Zarrabs lead lawyer, Benjamin Brafman, declined to comment. Mr. Zarrab has pleaded not guilty. The case has been largely ignored by the public in the United States. But it has been widely reported and discussed in Ankara, where many of the governments supporters see it as a continuation of a December 2013 attempt by parts of the Turkish judiciary to unseat Mr. Erdogans administration. Photo President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey himself raised the case with President Trump when he visited Washington in May. CreditDoug Mills/The New York Times At that time, prosecutors in Turkey announced investigations into Turkish officials suspected in several corruption scandals. Mr. Caglayan and two other ministers quickly resigned, and Mr. Aslan and Mr. Zarrab were arrested, in what was the biggest challenge to Mr. Erdogans reputation since his party came to power in 2002. Mr. Erdogan presented the investigations as a de facto coup attempt, mounted by followers of the same Islamist sect the Gulen movement that Mr. Erdogan would later say led a failed military putsch in July 2016. Mr. Erdogans government quickly shut down the investigations and released Mr. Zarrab and Mr. Aslan. Many of the police officers and prosecutors involved in the cases were later purged from their jobs. The 2013 allegations, and the wiretaps on which they were based, were denounced as fiction claims that many Turks found credible because of the Gulen movement s problematic history. Gulenist prosecutors had been found to have fabricated evidence in earlier trials of secular army officers. (This week, Turkeys state-run news agency said the American Embassy employee whose detention had fanned tensions had links to one of those prosecutors.) But four years on, court filings in Manhattan show, these same recordings have become a part of the United States case. The court records show that Mr. Erdogans voice was not captured on any of these particular recordings. But in the fall of 2013, he is referred to frequently by his office in conversations among some of the people suspected of conspiracy. In June 2013, the Obama administration had closed the loophole that had allowed Turkey to pay for Iranian gas with gold. That fall, two of the alleged conspirators discussed finding an alternative method to evade the sanctions, according to transcripts of the recordings cited in the case. The method the men are accused of settling on had problematic side effects for the Turkish economy. Since large quantities of gold were no longer being channeled through Turkey, the countrys trade deficit looked set to increase. Mr. Erdogan was alarmed by this development, according to statements captured by the wiretaps. With local elections looming, Mr. Erdogan may have feared damage to his reputation as a savvy manager of the Turkish economy. According to the recordings, Mr. Erdogan spoke with Messrs. Zarrab, Caglayan and Aslan about the need to restore Turkish export figures to the record high of the previous year. Photo Refinery installations in Assaluyeh, Iran. CreditThe New York Times There is no evidence that Mr. Erdogan demanded or expected this to be achieved through illegal means. But the result he sought had previously been accomplished only through a method that was now outlawed under American sanctions. And the defendants charged in the United States are accused, in part, of returning to a version of the gas-for-gold scheme a course of action Turkish investigators say the men took after they had spoken with Mr. Erdogan. In one of the conversations, on Sept. 19, 2013, Mr. Zarrab claimed that he had personally spoken to Mr. Erdogan about the trade deficit, and had assured the leader he would help increase Turkish exports by $4 billion. We have to do our best to achieve this $4 billion goal, Mr. Zarrab is quoted as telling the bank chief, Mr. Aslan, because I promised the prime minister. In a separate conversation on the same day, Mr. Zarrab told another associate that a smaller increase would be better than nothing. Even two billion is important because I will go to meet the prime minister directly, Mr. Zarrab said, according to the transcript. In a conversation two weeks later, on Oct. 3, 2013, Mr. Caglayan told Mr. Aslan that Mr. Erdogan had directly demanded an increase in exports. Turkey needs at least $2 to $4 billion in exports, Mr. Caglayan said. Last night we had a two-hour meeting with the prime minister in Istanbul and explained to him that there is a lot of pressure. Turkish investigators concluded from another conversation, on Sept. 16, 2013, that Mr. Aslan had spoken to Mr. Erdogan, who told him to do something, whatever the method to increase exports. The transcripts do not show that Mr. Erdogan was told how Mr. Zarrab, Mr. Aslan and Mr. Caglayan intended to increase exports or that Iran was the ultimate beneficiary of Mr. Zarrabs alleged scheme. My reading of the transcripts, as someone who has been covering Turkish politics for 27 years, leads me to say that Erdogan fully understood what was going on, said Atilla Yesilada, an Istanbul-based consultant at Global Source Partners, an analysis firm, and a political commentator. Mr. Yesilada acknowledged that nothing in the transcripts showed that the issue of sanctions busting had been brought to Mr. Erdogans attention. Mr. Erdogan himself, however, has spoken publicly in the past about his willingness to break the United States sanctions on Iran. When we are approached on that matter You should obey the sanctions, you should obey we cannot obey, Mr. Erdogan said in December 2012 at a news conference in Istanbul. This is strategically important for us. Follow Patrick Kingsley @patrickkingsley and Benjamin Weiser @BenWeiserNYT on Twitter. Accra. 17th October, 2017. Top telecommunications companies, fast-moving commodity goods manufacturers, industrialists, banks, engineering and construction companies, consultancies, airlines, hoteliers, local and international businesses in Ghana are ready for the 7th edition of the Ghana Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Excellence Awards (GHACEA) on 27th October in Accra. Vodafone Ghana, Tigo, Guinness Ghana, Unilever Ghana, Odebrecht Engineering, Fidelity Bank, Unibank, Access Bank, Accra City Hotel, Coconut Groove Hotel, Wire Weaving Industries, Stratcomm Africa, Kingdom Concepts, Olam Ghana, MTN, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Delta Airline, Berock Ventures, Interplast, Puma Energy, Blow group and others have been shortlisted for various categories of the Awards. The GHACEA is Ghanas biggest social responsibility event bringing together all major players within the CSR and Sustainability platform in the country. The Awards is supported by the Association of Ghana Industries, the Federation of Association of Ghanaian Exporters, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Trade & Industry, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Integriti PR, Westkomm and many local and international media organisations. It is modeled after the European CSR Awards scheme with multi-stakeholder jury drawn from academia, media, civil society, business associations and regulatory agencies. According to the Lead Project Manager, Mr. Kojo Williams, Since its inception, the GHACEA has helped increase the level of awareness of the responsibility of corporate organisations to their stakeholders, environment and the society at large. There is a cumulative 53% increment in the number of companies that are participating or have participated in the GHACEA over the years. It means more companies are engaging in more sustainable socially-responsible practices, which is the major criterion for participating in the Awards scheme. Recently, the Centre for CSR, West Africa was acknowledged by the University of Cambridge, UK, for its contribution to the Universitys global research on New CSR Model which studied more than 400 rms. At this years GHACEA, the Centres latest sector-focussed, but widely circulated newspaper, Business and CSR, will be officially launched. The bi-weekly publication will contain enviable CSR projects, initiatives and achievement of companies, scholarly articles, research findings, exclusive interviews and other business-friendly information. It will be circulated widely across Ghana, the West African sub-region and to other parts of the world where the Centres international stakeholders are located. Landing in Accra weary eyed and jet lagged, a team of renowned doctors, nurses and volunteers from all corners of the world carry an almighty cargo of medical supplies, food and donations on a five hour drive to the city of Kumasi in the Ashanti region to begin the incredible journey of providing FREE Reconstructive Surgery to people in Ghana. Returning to the home country of Dr. Michael K. Obeng, the RESTORE foundations goal is to Restore Emotional Stability Through Outstanding Reconstructive Efforts. Over the next 5 days, 20 volunteers including 6 surgeons will dedicate their intricate skills and time to support the most vulnerable patients and educate the communities in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Working from Kumasis FIRSTCARE Hospital, the team began the complex screening process of over 70 patients hoping to RESTORE their lives. From abnormalities, accidents and disease the team must select the patients most appropriate for surgery which means ruling out those who may require extensive follow-up care which the Ghanaian healthcare system might not be able to support. Hearing the stories of the patients and their families opens our eyes to how lucky we are to have access to developed healthcare systems and health education. Gruelling hours of screening, misdiagnosed cancers, untreated tumours and severe skin burns, the team were able to select 51 patients thus far for surgery. 16 patients confirmed for surgery tomorrow. Juggling 60 additional screening consultations and 16 complex reconstructive operations, day two will bring with it more challenge, more emotions and, God willing, more success! It is with the collaborative effort of a dedicated team who have come together from all walks of life that we are able to provide change for this wonderfully diverse and gracious community. As the team sits together for our evening meal, we reflect on the first day of our mission. With hungry stomachs and humble hearts we count our blessings and thank the universe for our health, our happiness and this incredible opportunity to change the lives and empower this wonderful community. So for those wondering what the RESTORE team is doing here in Ghana, our answer stands united - whatever it takes. #whateverittakes #restoringlives -Written by Eleanor Hartley Submitted by Kwame Boakye Danquah. Toziah KBD. Prices of major staples like maize are likely to shoot up following the destruction caused by the invasion of fall armyworms. Joy News Justice Baidoo spoke to some farmers in Bimbila in the Northern Region, a major farming community and found out that unlike previous years when they get a plentiful harvest, the invasion of fall armyworms has threatened to destroy their livelihood and all they have worked for this year. Wumbe Alhassan, a farmer who spoke to the reporter said, he spent almost GHE2,000 to cultivate a 10-acre piece of land only for his work to be ruined by the armyworms. He lamented on where his livelihood will come from. Since March this year, the pests have invaded 120 hectares of farmland. The Nana Akufo- Addo-led government has pledged a fight back with the pesticide control program but the farmers fear the ratio of Extension Officers to farmlands, could thwart the program. Fauzia Zenabu, who is a retailer of maize at a market in Accra says they are also feeling the effect of the pest invasion. Last year we were buying a bowl of maize for GHE2 but this year, it is GHE3, she said. She also fears the price may shoot up to GHE7 in Accra. The farmers and traders are calling for any response to the situation to be now, rather than later. This, however, contrasts with what the Acting Chief Executive of National Food and Buffer Stock Company, Abdul Wahab told Joy Business that there is bumper harvest and a bigger harvest is expected in the remaining months of the year. Abdul Wahab said the problem is rather a lack of ready market which forces farmers in the north to sell their produce to neighboring countries. Therefore, they are working to expand storage facilities so they can swipe the harvest from the farmers before they look elsewhere, he said. Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Oswald K. Azumah The National Crime Office in the UK has cleared the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu of wrongdoing when he handed about 350,000 cash to a banker, Mark Frank Arthur to deposit into his account with UK-based Ghana International Bank. According to Banking Consultant, Nana Otuo Acheampong, Investigation conducted into the source of the money indicated the money did not come from a dodgy deal. Nana Acheampong, who has been following the case after the Kings name was mentioned in the case, visited the GhIB in the UK and secured documentation regarding the case. He told the host of Joy FM's Super Morning Show, Kojo Yankson that the bank filed a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) after it received an alert on the transaction entered by Mr. Mark Arthur because the amount that was put in was above allowable threshold of 250,000. The transaction took place in August 2016. Nana Otuo Acheampong When that [SAR] was filed there was nothing the National Crime Office could find because the source [of the money] has been clearly identified. So this wasnt a money laundering case as if there was dirty money The Banking Consultant stated: the fact that the bell has rung does not mean the money is dirty money. Nana Otuo Acheampongs revelations affirm an earlier account given by Joy News sources in Manhyia Palace, the seat of the Asante Kingdom when the news first broke. The source had described as inaccurate, reports suggesting the Asantehene was allegedly involved in money laundering. Nana Otuo Acheampong explained further that during the tribunal hearing, the GhIB applied for anonymity of the account holder and opted for use of an abbreviation [OT] to represent him but Mr. Arthur opposed this application on the grounds that he conducted the transaction on behalf of the account holder and that it was important to disclose details of the account holder which the judge granted on the grounds of open justice. Ruling deferred The Employment Tribunal hearing the case brought before it by a former employee of the Ghana International Bank in the UK challenging his dismissal has deferred ruling to four weeks time. It is the third time the ruling has been put off to a later date, after two earlier dates Friday, October 13, and Monday, October 16- communicated by the tribunal. Myjoyonline.com has learnt, the tribunal judge has decided to give a written judgement instead of a verbal ruling. The written judgment will be delivered in four weeks. Nana Otuo Acheampong disclosed that Mr. Arthur, who claimed to have secured permission from the Managing Director of the Bank, Joe Mensah before depositing the money into the accounts of the Asantehene, has already lost two attempts to have his dismissal reversed. Mark Arthur until the sack, had worked with the Ghana International Bank since 1989, rising through the ranks to the position of an Executive Director. Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Jerry Tsatro Mordy | Email: [email protected], Twitter: @jerrymordy The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Hon. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto will leave Accra on Tuesday, the 17th of October, for a 10 day official visit to Israel The visit is at the invitation of the Government of Israel through Agritop Limited, an Israeli business firm specializing in greenhouse technology. The visit also forms part of efforts to deepen bilateral ties between the two countries, particularly in the areas of agriculture and agri- business. Whilst in Israel, the Honourable Minister will embark on visits to Kibbutzs, irrigation and other sites to familiarize himself with their activities whilst also engaging with the Israeli business community to attract investment into Ghana. Hon. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto will also examine the Israeli Greenhouse Technology potentials, explore opportunities available under the Student Exchange Programme, and also pay a visit to Seed Production Companies as well as Israeli Out-growers Cooperatives. He will also present to the Israeli authorities the government's flagship Planting for Food and Jobs(PFJ) policy. The Israeli government has expressed interest in partnering government's efforts to revamp Ghana's ailing Agriculture, especially in the areas of Agro-processing, Greenhouse and irrigation development. Early this year, the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, together with some investors, paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Food and Agriculture to explore possibilities of Israeli businessmen investing in Ghana's agricultural sector. The Minister is due back in Ghana on Friday October, 27. The Assembly Member and teacher of Asuom Senior High School has made a donation of bags of cement and trips of sand to help the authorities of the school re construct a boys dormitory of the school that was razed by inferno. It would be recalled that fire gutted the boys dormitory of Asuom Senior High School in the Kwaebibirem District of the Eastern Region in the early hours of Sunday 8th October burning down completely three rooms of the dormitory and a cubicle containing the chop boxes of the male students of the school. Following the fire, about 60students were displaced with over 30 students losing completely all their belongings forcing the school authorities to improvise classrooms as dormitories. But Abrefa Busia who is also an old student of the same school has gone to the aid of the school with the hope of helping the school to get back the dormitory in shape in no too distant future. Abrefa Busia after the donation pleaded with the Kwaebibirem District Assembly, the Ghana Education Service, old students, NGOs and other philanthropists to 'come to the aid of the school.' Receiving the items Mad Elizabeth Ehorke, Assistant Headmistress of the school (Administration) thanked the Assembly Member for the kind gesture saying it would go a long way to help the school. She also pleaded with other well meaning Ghanaians who have education at heart to come to the aid of the school. The Inspector General of Police, David Asante-Appeatu, has warned Bimbilla residents not to engage in any act that will distort the prevailing peace of the area. According to him, free movement in Bimbilla has been restricted for far too long and that has hampered economic activities and growth of the area. Following the burial of the late Nakpa Naa of Bimbilla, security personnel were sent to the area to maintain peace. Addressing residents of Bimbilla, the IGP warned that anyone caught in an act that constitutes a breach in the peace of Bimbilla and the country at large, will face the full rigours of the law. IGP, however, expressed gratitude to the people and the traditional leadership for the peaceful burial of the late Nakpa Naa. The Regent of Bimbilla, Naa Andani Dasana said, the main issues surrounding the conflict had to do with the late chief's place of burial and the title with which he would be buried. The Regent of Bimbilla revealed that as a traditional authority, they have respect for the laws and law enforcement agencies of the country but that respect had never been reciprocated. Naa Andani Dasana stated that over the years, all the crisis that had existed were as a result of the failure of the law enforcement agencies to live up to their mandate of enforcing the law. The Regent hinted that all verdicts from competent court of law in the country, the regional and national house of chiefs and Supreme Court have all been in their favor yet the rightful law enforcement agencies refused to act and were rather doing the opposite which had and will always result in riot and conflict. He called on the president to use his prestigious and most respected office to decouple politics from chieftaincy in the region, especially, the Bimbilla conflict. Spokesperson of the newly enskinned Sung Lana, Yussifu Salifu Dawuni of Bimbilla expressed gratitude to the government for its efforts and mediations for the burial of the late chief and paying the cost incurred at the hospital. The family of the late chief pledged their support and contribution to see to the growth of Bimbilla and promised not to engage in any act that will jeopardize the prevailing peace in the town. FROM Eric Kombat, Tamale Some drivers in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, particularly those who ply the Takoradi-Shama Route, have commended the hierarchy of the Ghana Police Service for taking punitive measures against police personnel who extort monies from drivers at the Inchaban Barrier in the Western Region. Six police officers had been summoned by the Police Intelligence and Professional Standards (PIPS) Bureau of the Ghana Police Service to answer charges on misconduct. The six, who are all stationed at the Sekondi Police Regional headquarters, were caught on video collecting money from drivers at the Inchaban Barrier. According to the drivers, the arrest of some of the alleged recalcitrant police personnel had been long overdue. They said the move by the police hierarchy would go a long way to deter others from taking 'one cedi' from drivers. Speaking to DAILY GUIDE in separate interviews, the drivers indicated that it was very pathetic that some few police personnel continue to tarnish the image of the police despite instructions from their superiors to desist from extorting money from drivers. The Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) at the Takoradi Tro-tro Station, Joseph Kigsley Eshun, indicated that the drivers were happy when the news reached them, adding that the police bosses had always been calling for evidence to deal with the culprits. So if drivers could not provide evidence and someone has done that, I think it's good news, at least it would help separate stubborn police men from those who are genuinely working for mother Ghana. He continued, The police personnel at the Apremdo Barrier on the Takoradi-Agona Nkwanta road also take money from drivers, thus creating traffic on that busy road. Meanwhile, the Director-General of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service, ACP David Eklu, has reminded motorists that they are not obliged to give money to police officers at the barriers or duty points. He indicated that when the attention of the Ghana Police Service was drawn to the video, which went viral on social media, personnel of the PIPS were tasked to investigate the authenticity of the video. He said a team was dispatched to Inchaban where the police personnel were identified and invited to appear before PIPS in Accra for interrogation. As part of measures to discourage police officers from taking money from drivers, clear guidelines will soon be given to distinguish the duties of the various police officers at barriers, police officers on highway patrol duties, and police officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), he stated. Mr. Eklu said the police administration was determined not to shield any police officer who indulges in professional acts that are likely to bring the name of the police service into disrepute. At a recent meeting with journalists in Takoradi, ACP Eklu entreated the media to take pictures of police officers who extort money from drivers. The Director-General, who welcomed constructive criticisms from the media, assured the general public of maximum protection and security and promised that the law would deal with officers who drag the name of the Service into disrepute. From Emmanuel Opoku, Inchaban Titus Glover has discussions with Samuel Oppong and Kwabena Sintim Aboagye at the Asafo Market yesterday morning Deputy Minister of Transport, Titus Glover, has expressed grave concern about the decision of VIP Bus Company Ltd to prevent Intercity STC from operating at its newly acquired yard at Asafo Market in Kumasi. Ghana is a democratic country, where the rule of law exists and it is therefore unacceptable for VIP Bus officials to breach the law and prevent Intercity STC from legally operating, the Minister stated. VIP Bus officials used their vehicles to block the road to prevent Intercity STC buses which had passengers, from moving to Accra from the Asafo Market yard on Monday morning. The VIP Bus officials argued that the operation of Intercity STC at Asafo Market could pose threat to their existence. The police were called to maintain law and order. According to Titus Glover, Intercity STC, which is an agency under his ministry, has proper legal documentations to operate at the newly acquired yard at Asafo Market. The Minister, who rushed to the Asafo Market yesterday morning, told DAILY GUIDE that I am here on emergency, I was from Lawra heading to Accra when I had information that there was anarchy between STC and VIP. I therefore decided to stop over since the STC is an agency under my ministry. When I arrived here I was told an Accra-bound STC bus was prevented from moving by the VIP officials until the police and city officials stepped in. I learnt the police helped before the two STC buses could move to Accra and I will urge the police to provide protection so that buses can also move because the STC has legal documentation to operate here. The STC yard at Asafo is a bit far from where the VIP Bus terminal is so I don't see why VIP is protesting against the STC. He said Intercity STC's operations at the Asafo Market will promote a healthy competition between the two transport entities. Mr Glover said similar competition exists in the aviation industry where customers can select Starbow or African World airline, saying that he would stay in Kumasi to hold a meeting to resolve the impasse. Meanwhile, Samuel Oppong, STC Board Chairman, who was also at the Asafo Market, expressed disappointment in the conduct of officials of VIP. He said STC has all the required documents to operate from the Asafo Market yard so what the VIP officials did this morning is unthinkable, adding that the law must be enforced for STC to operate at the place in peace. On his part, Kwabena Sintim Aboagye, Deputy Managing Director of STC in-charge of operations, said the GPRTU Kokofu branch had sublet its yard for 24 years to the STC to operate, adding that nobody can stop the state transporter from operating at the terminal. From I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr., Kumasi Kate Gyamfua, former deputy national womens organiser of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called on political parties to put a stop to electoral violence. According to her, such barbaric behaviour must have no space within the body politics of Ghana, especially in Ghanas democratic dispensation. Ms Kate Gyamfua, who is aspiring to become the partys national womens organizer, stated this when addressing a forum at Suhum in the Eastern Region over the weekend. The occasion was a health walk and mini rally organised by the Loyal Ladies. She emphasized that no amount of provocation during electioneering campaigns should result in physical assaults, with its resultant murder or maiming. The forum was to commemorate a year's anniversary of the Loyal Ladies who were brutalized by some hoodlums of then ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) at Suhum during the 2016 electioneering campaign to for the then NPP flag bearer, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the parliamentary candidate of the Suhum Constituency. About 16 members of the group, who were manhandled, were presented with citations for the trauma they went through and yet continued to campaign for the party to eventually win the elections. Madam Kate Gyamfua, who was joined by Lawyer Nana Boakye aka Nana B, Deputy Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS) and musician Lucky Mensah, among others, also congratulated the ladies on their hard work during the campaign period and urged them to surge on. The president of the group, Perpetual Lomokie Akwada, told DAILY GUIDE that the then governing NDC supporters who on October 11, 2016 assaulted the Loyal Ladies members during a house-to-house campaign, left several of them traumatized. According to her, to sensitize the public on the need to eschew such acts of barbarity in the body politic of Ghana, the ladies held a walk and mini rally under the theme, Creating Awareness on Election Violence and Its Effect on the Ghanaian Society. Ms Perpetual Lomokie Akwada pleaded with young people not to allow themselves to be used as tools of violence during electioneering periods and other occasions. FROM Daniel Bampoe, Suhum The Kwabenya Community Day Senior High School has been without electricity since 2016, when it was commissioned by the previous John Mahama government. This is as a result of a GH 41,000 debt reportedly left behind by the contractors who put up the school. The Headmistress of the School, Elizabeth Sam, who revealed this when members of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education visited the school on Monday, said some staff of the school are forced to carry out some administrative duties in her house as a result of the situation. For now, the school has no light. Since the school was handed over to us, he hasn't paid any bill as yet so it got to a time, the high cost of the electricity bill prompted the Electricity Company of Ghana to come and disconnect us. So he hasn't paid any bill from the time we came here. The ICT lab, we can't use it Most of the administrative work is done in my home, Mrs. Sam said. She also decried the inadequate furniture in the school, noting that it had compelled some first-year students to bring personal plastic chairs from their respective homes. The Chairman of the Committee, Siaka Stevens, said the committee will be working to address some of the challenges raised by the school. He said it was preparing a report to be submitted to the floor of parliament for a debate and a policy direction. He added that, the committee will engage the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to discuss the possibility of reconnecting the school to the national grid, while making efforts to reach the contractor to impress on him to pay the GH41,000 debt. The Kwabenya Community Day SHS is among about 50 schools that were commissioned under the previous governments special program to build 200 new community day Senior High Schools. The previous government could not complete construction of all the promised 200 schools before it left office in January 2017. By: Jonas Nyabor/citifmonline.com/Ghana A civil society, Coalition for Social Justice (CSJ) has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate Mr Alfred Obeng, the managing director of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation company limited (BOST). Alfred Obeng has been accused by the group for abuse of power, relative to the sale of five million litres of contaminated fuel. In the petition signed by convenor of the group, Sammy Gyamfi, the group said after our careful examination of the dubious circumstances under which five million litres of contaminated fuel were sold by BOST to some unlicensed businesses and the unlawful manner in which he conducted himself with respect to the whole matter, we are of the firm opinion that the Managing Director of BOST, Mr Alfred Obeng has abused his powers as a Public Officer, for which he must be sanctioned in accordance with the law. They cited in their petition the absence of a Board at BOST at the time the sale of the contaminated fuel was authorized, adding that Mr Obeng acted unilaterally in the sale of the contaminated fuel. It added that Mr Obeng also without any notification to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) which is the regulator of the downstream petroleum sector and the Ministry of Energy which is the supervising Ministry of the sector. The CSJ is asking the Commissioner of CHRAJ, Joseph Whittal in the petition to launch full investigations into the matter in line with its mandate under article 218(a) of the 1992 Constitution and section 7(I) of the CHRAJ Act (Act 456) of 1993. The group says it is prepared to cooperate with CHRAJ to investigate the matters raised in the petition in order to unearth the truth. Below is a copy of the full statement: THE COMMISSIONER COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS & ADMINISTRATIVE JUSTICE (CHRAJ) Dear Sir, PETITION TO INVESTIGATE MR. ALFRED OBENG, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BOST, FOR ABUSE OF POWER. Respectfully Sir, the Coalition for Social Justice (CSJ) is a duly registered Civil Society Organization with a prime objective of fighting injustice in all its manifestations and ensuring the judicious use of power by public officers. In accordance with article 218(a) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and section 7(i) of the CHRAJ ACT (ACT 456) of 1993, we invoke the jurisdiction of CHRAJ to investigate Mr. Alfred Obeng, the Managing Director of BOST for ABUSE OF POWER relative to the sale of five (5) million litres of Contaminated Fuel to some businesses in Ghana. After our careful examination of the dubious circumstances under which five (5) million litres of contaminated fuel was sold by BOST to some unlicensed businesses and the unlawful manner in which Mr. Alfred Obeng conducted himself with respect to the whole matter, we are of the firm opinion that the Managing Director of BOST, Mr. Alfred Obeng, has abused his powers as a Public Officer, for which he must be sanctioned in accordance with law. Without further ado, we proceed to outline the facts and particulars of our case as follows: 1. On the 18th of January 2017, five (5) million litres of fuel got contaminated at the premises of BOST by the accidental mixture of diesel and petrol. This claim was made by BOST in a press release dated 22nd June 2017, a copy of which is attached as Exhibit A. 2. There was no public announcement or newspaper advertisement of the intention of BOST to sell the contaminated fuel. However, an unregistered business, purportedly trading as Movenpinaa Energy heard of the availability of the exact volumes of the contaminated fuel and requested in a letter dated 19th May 2017 and addressed to the Managing Director of BOST, to purchase all the five (5) million litres of contaminated fuel. A copy of the said letter is attached herewith and marked as Exhibit B. 3. The May 19th 2017 letter from Movenpinaa Energy was received at BOST on 2nd June 2017. On the same day of the receipt of the letter, Mr. Alfred Obeng the Managing Director of BOST unilaterally accepted the offer of Movenpinaa Energy and directed that the entire five (5) million litres contaminated fuel should be given to Movenpinaa Energy at a unit price of one Ghana cedi (GHa1.00) on an open credit basis. Evidence of this fact can be found on the face of Exhibit B. 4. In spite of the sale of the 5 million litres contaminated fuel to Movenpinaa Energy, the contaminated fuel was kept at the Accra Plains Depot of BOST at a cost to the state. This fact is evident in Exhibit C which is herewith attached. 5. Movenpinaa Energy after slapping its profit margin on every litre of the contaminated fuel and without expending or investing a pesewa of its resources, sold and requested BOST to transfer 2 million litres of the contaminated fuel it had illegally acquired from BOST which was still being kept at the Accra Plains Depot (APD) of BOST, to a company called MACWEST. Subsequently, Movenpinaa Energy sold 470,000 litres of the remainder to another company called ZUP OIL. Copies of the letters containing these transactions are attached and marked as Exhibit D. We further aver that: A. There was no governing Board at BOST at the time of the sale of the contaminated fuel by BOST to Movenpinaa Energy and the Managing Director, Mr. Alfred Obeng acted unilaterally in the sale of the contaminated fuel. B. Mr. Alfred Obeng unilaterally directed the sale of the contaminated fuel to Movenpinaa Energy without any notification to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) which is the regulator of the downstream petroleum sector and the Ministry of Energy which is the supervising ministry of the sector. C. The five (5) million litres of contaminated Fuel was sold to Movenpinaa Energy by BOST under the direction of its MD, Mr. Alfred Obeng without following legally laid down procurement processes thereby contravening Sections 16(2)(c), 40(1), 35, 83 and 84 of the Public Procurement Act (Act 663) of 2003. This fact was corroborated by Mr. Alfred Obeng in an interview with Atinka FM, a private radio station in Accra. An audio recording of the said interview is contained on a CD ROM marked as Exhibit E and enclosed in the envelope. D. The MD of BOST, Mr. Alfred Obeng, was not fair and candid in the way and manner he unilaterally sold all the 5 million litres of contaminated fuel to Movenpinaa Energy. His flagrant disregard of public procurement processes in the sale of the contaminated fuel was not only unlawful but discriminatory, biased, arbitrary and capricious thereby contravening article 296 of 1992 constitution of Ghana. E. That at all times material to the sale of the contaminated fuel by BOST, Movenpinaa Energy had not been licensed by the NPA to trade in petroleum products in the downstream petroleum sector of Ghana. The sale of the contaminated fuel to Movenpinaa Energy by BOST under the direction of its MD, Mr Alfred Obeng was therefore unlawful and breached sections 11 and 32 of the NPA Act (ACT 691) of 2005. The fact of this illegality was confirmed by the NPA in a press statement dated 27th June 2017 a copy of which is attached and marked as Exhibit F. F. That at all times material to the sale of volumes of contaminated fuel by Movenpinaa Energy to ZUP OIL and MACWEST, neither companies had been duly licensed by the NPA to engage in any commercial activity in the downstream petroleum sector. Therefore, the sale of 470,000 and 2 million litres of contaminated fuel to ZUP OIL and MACWEST respectively breached sections 11 and 32 of the NPA Act (ACT 691) of 2005 rendering the transactions unlawful. The tacit involvement of the BOST MD, Mr. Alfred Obeng in those transactions was unlawful and irresponsible. G. It was bad governance practice for Mr. Alfred Obeng to have dealt with Movenpinaa Energy at a time it was not duly registered and incorporated under the laws of Ghana. This is because documents available from the Registrar General's Department show that Movenpinaa Energy was registered as a sole proprietorship business under the Registration of Business Names Act (ACT 151) 1962, on 1st June 2017. However, records show that Movenpinaa Energy fraudulently came by a letter head and requested to buy the contaminated fuel from BOST in a letter dated 19th May 2017, eleven clear days before its incorporation as evident in "Exhibit B". Copies of the incorporation documents of Movenpinaa Energy are attached and marked as Exhibit G. It is also instructive to point out that, Mr. Alfred as a Public Officer is required to act in accordance with the laws of Ghana at all times. His conduct in this saga flies in the face of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers which provides that: Principle 1.1 Public Officers shall honour and abide by the Constitution and laws of Ghana in the performance of their official duties with dignity, integrity and professionalism. 1.1.1. Pubic Officers in the performance of their official duties shall act with professionalism and integrity. 1.1.2. Public Officers shall serve the State with honesty, fairness, integrity, neutrality and impartiality. CONCLUSION It is the contention of the Coalition for Social Justice that the Managing Director of BOST, Mr. Alfred Obeng, abused his powers when he acted unlawfully in the sale of five (5) million litres of contaminated fuel to Movenpinaa Energy by violating the National Petroleum Authority Act (ACT 691) 2005, the Public Procurement Act (ACT 663) 2003 and the Code of Conduct for Public Officers as outlined above. We hereby request the Commission on Human Rights & Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to launch a full-scale investigation into this matter in line with its mandate under article 218(a) of the 1992 Constitution and section 7(I) of the CHRAJ Act (Act 456) of 1993. We further wish to indicate our preparedness to co-operate with the Commission to investigate the matters raised in this petition in order to unearth the truth. We believe that the unlawful and arbitrary manner in which Mr. Alfred Obeng conducted himself in this matter amounts to ABUSE OF POWER. It is our prayer that the Commission recommends the removal from office of Mr. Alfred Obeng to the appropriate authorities and deals with him in accordance with law if found culpable. EXHIBIT H are copies of other documents which will aid your investigation into this matter. Respectfully submitted. Signed, SAMMY GYAMFI CONVEYNOR ABASS NURUDEEN OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | NSA Bystanders rallied to keep a fire outbreak at the pharmacy unit of the Walewale District Hospital in the Northern Region under control. The fire service had been called to attend to the fire, and it took them about 30 minutes to get to the scene, but bystanders tried their best to keep the fire from spreading until fire service personnel arrived. The fire, which started around 9:00 am on Monday, is the second fire incident at the facility in the last two months, according to a journalist in Walewale, Yussifu Mashoud. Yussifu Mashoud noted to Citi News that, when the fire started, fortunately there were a lot of women at the health insurance office, which is close by [to the pharmacy unit], and they supported by getting enough water, and the men also came together to see how best they could deal with the fire. Whilst that fire was happening, the bystanders were trying their possible best to get in touch with the fire service so that they could get to solve the problem, he said. The fire service later came in and ensured that other parts of the building that were not touched [by the fire] were cooled down and some items were brought out of the pharmacy unit. The fire service and the team from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), are currently at the scene trying to ascertain the cause of the fire. After people around the scene had decried the fire services late response time, the personnel noted that, they had used three minutes to get to scene, and that the call that was placed was on the 192 which goes to the headquarters. According to them, the call that was placed to them was via the 192 emergency number, which goes to their headquarters in Tamale before alerting them in Walewale. By: Delali Adogla-Bessa/citifmonline.com/Ghana Deliberations in Parliament last week, begun on Tuesday with the topical matter of the Atomic Junction Gas explosion that claimed seven lives and injured over 100. In a bid to capture the national mood after the explosion that has got authorities thinking once again about the far-reaching regulations for the retail of gas in the country, the Chairman of the Energy Committee of Parliament, Emmanuel Akwasi Gyamfi (MP, Odotobiri), made a statement on the floor of the house that drew contributions from either side of the aisle. In summary, MPs called for stiff sanctions for officials and others, found to have caused the explosion. In a rare show of agreement from both the Minority and Majority caucuses, there was a clear resolve from the house to the Executive to take the necessary actions to stem the tide of such gas explosions which has occurred eight times within the past four years. The matter of the gas explosion was not the only subject of interest on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday. Zongo Development Fund Bill For the second time in this Parliamentary session, the Zongo Development Fund Bill was withdrawn from the house. This rekindled the conversations within the corridors of parliament as to whether due diligence is being done on some of bills expected to support some flagship initiatives of the Akufo Addo administration. According to Isaac Adongo (NDC MP, Bolgatanga Central), the withdrawal of the bill for the second time shows the government is clearly not serious with pushing through the bill that would establish the Zongo Development Fund; a promise in the electioneering season of 2016, that would see the commitment of funds to the revamp Zongo communities. The Majority however disagrees with this suggestion. From deep sources within the Front bench of the Majority, the bill had to be withdrawn to correct a few anomalies and would be re-laid this week. Northern, Middle Belt and Coastal Development Authorities Bill Still on the floor of the house, the Northern, Middle Belt and Coastal Development Authorities Bill, passed the second reading stage of lawmaking in Parliament, where the policy and principles of a Bill is deliberated upon. Interestingly, the argument of the name Coastal Development Authority Bill, stirred a bout of contention. Deputy Ranking Member of the Employment, Social Welfare and State Enterprises Committee, which considered the bill, Richard Quashigah (NDC MP, Keta), opined that a more appropriate name of the Authority should be the Southern Belt Development Authority due to the varying geographical characteristics of the zone the proposed authority would administer. The Greater Accra, Western, Central and Volta Region would be administered by the proposed Authority, and would be the conduit for the distribution of the One Million one dollar per constituency Infrastructure for Poverty Eradication Programme (IPEP) of the Akufo-Addo administration. These regions have both forest and coastal zones, and thus in the view of Richard Quashigah and Clement Humado (NDC MP, Anlo), a more appropriate name would have been Southern Belt Development Authority. The house subsequently passed the three sibling bills through the second reading stage, and the clauses of the bills are currently been tweaked at the consideration stage. Hopefully, the Northern Development Authority Bill will be passed this week. Outside the Chamber Outside the Chamber of Parliament, the Foreign Affairs Committee appeared on the public radar over the alleged involvement of some Ghanaians (50-100) on the frontlines of the so-called Islamic State or ISIS in Libya per the 28th September 2017 Report of the Attorney General of that country. The whistle was blown at a press conference organized by the Minority Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP, North Tongu). Minutes later, the Majority caucus of the Committee led by Chairman, Frank Annor Dompreh (NPP MP,Nsawam-Adoagyir), organized a counter press conference insisting that the Minority had not been a responsible minority in putting out such information with national security implications without authenticating the content of the said 28th September,2017 report of the Libyan Attorney General. My opinion In my view, such matters would have been handled well, if for instance the Foreign Affairs Committee as an entity would address such issues from a bi-partisan manner to give the Executive the needed pressure to clear the name of our republic among the comity of nations, after such a damning report from Libya's Attorney General. Well, Vice Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, Collins Owusu Amankwaa (NPP MP, Manhyia North), says he would drag Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa before the Privileges Committee for causing panic and making unsubstantiated allegations in a matter that has serious national security implications. As to whether such an attempt to haul his colleague before the house would see the light of day is a matter that would unfold in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the National Security Minister on Friday met the leadership of Parliament to brief them behind closed doors as to the steps government is taking on the ISIS matters as raised by the Minority. Parliament This Week This week in Parliament, it is expected that the Northern Development Authority Bill would be passed. The Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee of august house, is also expected to present its report on the Office of the Special Prosecutor Bill, as a prelude to the heated debate envisaged to hit the floor at the Second reading stage. By: Duke Mensah Opoku(@opokuduke)/citifmonline.com/Ghana The Writer is the Parliamentary Reporter for Citi 97.3 FM Mogadishu (AFP) - Somalia's allies sent planes carrying medical supplies and doctors Tuesday, while the diaspora rallied to donate blood to help the country cope with the crushing aftermath of its worst ever bombing. At least 276 people were killed and 300 injured on Saturday when a truck packed with explosives blew up in a busy commercial district, according to the government, however medical sources suggest the death toll could be over 300. The disaster quickly overwhelmed the fragile health system of a country which has experienced nearly three decades of civil war and anarchy and is heavily dependent on foreign aid. Planes from the United States, Kenya and Qatar landed in Mogadishu on Tuesday. "We have received today three aircrafts carrying medical supplies from the USA, Qatar and Kenya and apart from the one from USA government, the other two will carry back wounded people, about 35 victims," Mogadishu mayor Tabid Abdi Mohamed told reporters. On Monday Turkey -- a leading donor and investor in Somalia -- ferried 35 wounded people to Ankara after its health minister, Ahmet Demircan, accompanied a plane carrying supplies, medics and disaster experts to the country. Djibouti's Health Minister Djama Elmi Okieh accompanied a team of specialist doctors and paramedics in a military aircraft to assist the wounded, according to state media. On Tuesday Kenyan Foreign Minister Amina Mohamed announced that the country would evacuate 31 injured Somalis for specialised treatment in Nairobi, and send 11 tonnes of medicine to the neighbouring country. In addition the Kenyan Red Cross launched a fundraising drive for victims of the attack. "This is a very good sign, for the fact that we are getting medical assistance because we cannot handle such a massive disaster," said Dr Abdukadir Haji Adem who runs Mogadishu's only free ambulance service AMIN. Blood drive in 'Little Mogadishu' According to his count the death toll stood at 302. Death tolls are notoriously difficult to establish in Mogadishu, with families often quickly taking victims away to be buried. At least 276 people were killed in Somalia's worst-ever bomb attack "When the tragedy happened, the telephone network was down and our coordination was very bad because we don't have walkie talkies, our equipment is insufficient to deal with a terrible incident like the one," he said. A GoFundMe page started by a Somali living in Sweden has raised 15,000 euros ($17,000) for the ambulance service -- which operates a fleet of 10 second-hand vehicles -- in only two days. Somalia's years of conflict, which began when Siad Barre's military regime collapsed in 1991, has created a diaspora of about two million people. The largest population of Somalis abroad is in Kenya, where hundreds lined up Wednesday in Nairobi's Eastleigh neighbourhood -- often dubbed Little Mogadishu -- to donate blood to be airlifted to their countrymen. "Quite a number of the casualties what they need at the moment is blood ... the turnout is massive, we have a lot of donors, we are really overwhelmed," said Abdi Nasir Dahir of Kenya's national blood transfusion services. The blast occurred in Hodan, destroying some 20 buildings in a bustling commercial district, leaving scores of victims burned beyond recognition. Several experts told AFP the truck was probably carrying at least 500 kilos (1,100 pounds) of explosives. No claim from Shabaab There has been no immediate claim of responsibility, but the Shabaab, a militant group aligned with Al-Qaeda, carries out regular suicide bombings in Mogadishu in its bid to overthrow Somalia's internationally-backed government. The group has a history of not claiming attacks whose scale provokes massive public outrage. Already more than 100 unidentified people have been buried who were burned beyond recognition. While the rapid burial is partly due to Islamic culture, the Somali government also has no proper morgue nor the capability to carry out forensic tests to identify the victims. "The government exhausted every effort to identify these dead bodies ... but it became so difficult that it decided to bury them all together," said local government official Muhidin Ali. The devastating attack is a blow to Somalia's fledgling government, coming eight months after President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed was elected to great fanfare in a limited voting process that was nevertheless seen as the most democratic yet in the notorious failed state. A boy injured in the Mogadishu bombing is among the injured people taken to Turkey for treatment He came into office declaring war on Shabaab, which has carried out regular attacks on Mogadishu since African Union and Somali troops drove them out of the capital in 2011. According to the Nairobi-based Sahan thinktank, at least 723 people were killed and over 1,000 injured in bomb attacks in 2016 in Somalia. Johannesburg (AFP) - South African President Jacob Zuma sacked a vocal critic from his cabinet on Tuesday, a move set to deepen tensions before the ANC chooses a new party leader in December. In his second reshuffle this year, Zuma dropped higher education minister Blade Nzimande, a veteran member of the South African Communist Party, which is a key political ally within the ruling ANC alliance. The SACP hit back at the "authoritarianism" of Zuma, who the SACP has repeatedly called to resign over corruption scandals. "This is an act of provocation," the party's deputy secretary general Solly Mapaila told reporters. "President Zuma should step down instead of making these factional decisions," he said, describing him as "delusionary" and a "runaway president". The African National Congress relies heavily on the SACP and the COSATU trade union federation to drum up support in elections. The "tripartite alliance" led the fight to end white-minority rule in South Africa. Both the SACP and COSATU have endorsed Cyril Ramaphosa to be the ANC's new head when Zuma steps down in December. Zuma, who will stay national president until the 2019 general elections, is backing his ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma to succeed him. ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe said it was a "pity" that Nzimande had been fired and that the cabinet shakeup "obviously will impact negatively on alliance relations which are at their lowest." The SACP said that the reshuffle would place the alliance on the "brink of disintegration". Zuma also moved state security minister David Mahlobo to the energy portfolio, reviving debate over controversial and costly plans for nuclear energy. South Africa wants to build eight new reactors to end its reliance on coal to produce electricity. But the procurement process and the price tag of about one trillion rand ($73 billion) have drawn sharp opposition. It is reported that former finance minister Pravin Gordhan, seen as a bulwark against corruption, was ousted from the government in March because he opposed the nuclear plans. Nairobi (AFP) - Tanzanian opposition figure Tundu Lissu, who was shot and critically injured at his home last month, is now out of intensive care, his party CHADEMA said Tuesday. Lissu, who was attacked on September 7, left the unit at a hospital in Nairobi last week, after having undergone 17 operations, CHADEMA chief Freeman Mbowe told media in Dar es Salaam. He can now eat and sit without help and no longer requires respiratory support, Mbowe said. When Lissu eventually leaves hospital, he will receive further treatment outside Nairobi, Mbowe added, refusing to give details for what he said were security reasons. Lissu, 49, was shot in the stomach and leg, according to local media reports, at his home in Tanzania's administrative capital Dodoma after returning from a parliamentary session. According to party leaders, Lissu had previously complained of being "tailed" by a car and repeatedly said he feared assassination. The opposition figure has had a series of run-ins with the government of President John Magufuli and had been arrested at least six times this year, accused of insulting the president and disturbing public order, among other charges. Tanzanian police say they have opened an investigation, but Mbowe on Tuesday repeated calls for an international inquiry, describing the local force as being controlled by Magufuli's Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party. Honourable Nana Akufo-Addo promised to bring back hope to a hapless nation that unruly governance will soon be a thing of the past. He said that his presence at the helm of affairs will set the pace for constant growth. Not only would the foundations for development and success be built, hell ensure that rampant rot is uprooted and dealt away with. Well, he made his point, and it is up to the electorate to decide whether they will give him the nod. His vilification comes in the wake of the fact that the corrupt people are shivering from the justice that they will, inadvertently, come face to face with. He is the MAN! Quote from the bible of Ghana politics, 59 Years to Nowhere and CountingThe Future is Now. Thus far, the MAN, who was voted to be the 7thPresident of the Fourth Republic on December 7, 2016, has lived up to expectation. We have always said that the government would not be an easy one to manage, but his ratings are excellent. So Far So Good! His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo has achieved in nine months what the NDC was unable to in their cursed lifespan of 27 years. Here are some reasons discussed in the same book, 59 Years to Nowhere and CountingThe Future is Now: education recently took a slip into relegation, resting disgracefully in a slot at the bottom of the world education chart, thanks to John Mahamas stupefied Ministry of Education. Mercies!!!Although negligence and wilful corruption were the catalysis for the reversal of Ghanas literacy fortunes, massive scandals constituted the recipes for this disaster. Antidote: President Nana Akufo-Addo brought much needed relief with the launching of the Free Quality SHS (Senior High School) that came with healthy food, uniforms, shoes, books, and everything including one bar of healthy Ghanaian chocolate per student. the demeanour of government can only be described as BELLIGERENT. How else, then, may the behaviour of John Mahamas government be described in light of the unwarranted scandals such as the squandering of ten million US Dollars on Presidential diaries. Yet dues to Arabic teachers and other Zongo initiatives are not paid for the flimsy reason as lack of money? Free bonto cars to curvy ladies and slaving hounds; free laptops to chooboi (cheering) supporters; Antidote: President Nana Akufo-Addo is in the process of sanitising the system as he restores the cancelled teacher training allowance. He is putting in place a system of ensuring that only competent teachers are employed to teach our future leaders. Arabic teachers are getting their full share of this blessing that John Mahama and the NDC cancelled, and which funds they redirected into their pockets. The African Development Bank (AFDB) had sent a written notice to the government that Ghana was among a number of countries that were blacklisted due to non-payment of facilities. These loans were accruing interest beyond acceptable limits. The whole NDC setup went bonkers calling Dr Bawumia a liar, again. Then he tendered incontrovertible proof to the nation to substantiate his submission. Our world came to a screeching halt! Heads were dazed, and eyes rolled in their sockets like a merry-go-round. Truth be told, ideologies, thoughts, and due diligence were thrown up in the air like strewn shreds of hope that cannot be mended. Ghanaians seemed to have lost it! Hope departed noisily through the window like the escape of a faltering thief in the darkness of night. The dreams of Ghanaians were snatched and dismembered; stolen once again! This came by form of a letter signed and stamped as original from the hierarchy of the bank. It would seem that the inefficiency of John Mahama as a President had afflicted every arm of his government and, even, transcended beyond that to the nation because nothing worked; redundancy galore, if you will. It is impossible for efficiency to make manifest in the midst of inaction. Antidote: The Economic Management Team under the leadership of His Excellency the Vice President, Dr MahmouduBawumia, has halted the freefall of the economy that was set on that course by the disgracefully ousted NDC President of gross incompetence, John DramaniMahama. Today, Ghanas gold reserves have risen to seven billion US Dollars and climbing. Banks that the NDC government was heavily indebted to have been paid off under the competent Presidency of his Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo. The dreams Ghanaians once had have resurfaced and they are coming true. For the unfortunate cases of AFM, Acute Faculty Malnutrition, let me explain the import of my article in a few words. It is not sycophancy. It is a love for the people who uphold truth, accountability, justice, and incorruptibility. An obdurate will to support the mantra, Making Ghana Great Again! Sycophancy is rather an NDC symptom of beating the chest in fake love for gluttonswho steal our pie and eat without refrain or restrain. Sycophant(s) is a noun. It refers to the NDC hungry stooges that survive on the scanty crumbs that fall from the mouths of thieves with sharp teeth that feast on our large stolen national pie. Such people are described as Obsequiously infantile, inanely childish, or ridiculously incompetent. #Womp3WoyeAWop3d3n Bolgatanga Central Member of Parliament Isaac Adongo has accused the Nana Akufo-Addo led administration of sleeping on the job. According to him, government seem to be struggling to get its economic priorities right hence finding it difficult to spend this year, a situation he attributed to a sign of government that is not serious in taking the best decision for its citizens. Issac Adongo made these disclosures on Tuesdays edition of Onua Fm morning show. How can they say they are serious when bills are being withdrawn left right and center. This is the third times this Zongo Development Fund Bill 2017 is being withdrawn, why. Tell them they are sleeping on the job, they should not be taking us for granted he told Bright Kwesi Asempa. The Bolgatanga Central MP reiterated that government is deliberately delaying the passage of the Zongo Development Fund Bill so that it can conveniently have excuse for not spending the 1.38 billion cedis, adding that we are almost at the end of the year and the vehicle for spending that money is in a limbo and from now to December, it will be difficult for people to set up an SME business Isaac Adongo who is also a member of the Finance committee in the Ghanaian Parliament has also painted a gloomy picture of the countrys survival when he said government is not being truthful to its citizens by not telling them the true state of the economy. Explaining this, he alleged that government had to borrow before paying workers salary in September, wondering what the situation will be in October. They dont have the money and they wont tell us the real state of affairs, this is why they are delaying these bills He also questioned why the state needs to establish 4 to 5 bureaucracies this year alone before spending the 1.38 billion Cedis this year but the fact is they dont have the money Let me ask you this, government is now saying they need 50,000 acres of land in each district to implement their flagship One District One Factory policy, which is equivalent to 200,000 houses. I live in Adenta and even if they demolish all the buildings there, there is no way they will get that size of land, so is this not another excuse. Government just set out to fail he averred In Ghana, it is easy to make a fool of oneself. Journalists or shall I say people purporting to be journalists tend to call for comments on national affairs from anyone who holds a big position. Especially if that person happens to have the abbreviation Dr appended to his name. Dr Kwesi Aning is the Director, Faculty of Academic Affairs & Research, at the Kofi Annan International Peace-Keeping Centre (KAIPC). Before he went to the KAIPC, he had served with the African Union and the United Nations. Nothing in his background would make anyone with any knowledge of politics pick up the phone to ask for his views on two of the most explosive issues in Ghanaian politics today galamsey and corruption. But someone from Starr FM Radio thought his views on both subjects worth eliciting. What he had to say has brought an avalanche nay, a veritable subsidence of Himalayan enormity crashing upon his head. His views were republished on Ghanaweb and I have hardly ever seen so much vulgar abuse heaped upon someone for commenting on socio-economic issues. So what did Dr Aning say that earned him so much public disdain? He was reported to have advised the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, not to fight against corruption at the same time as he was "fighting galamsey." The report even claimed that he had said he had conveyed that advice personally to Nana Akufo-Addo. QUOTE: The Director, Faculty of Academic Affairs & Research, at the Kofi Annan International Peace-Keeping Centre (KAIPC) Dr Kwesi Aning, has advised President Akufo Addo not to take up the fight against corruption now. According to the Security Expert, it will be wrong for the President to combine the fight against corruption with that of the ongoing fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. [The] President ... has said it will be suicidal on his part to abandon the stance his government has taken against the menace of illegal mining, in [the government's] quest to protect the environment for the survival of present and future generations. According to [the President], the oath he took during his swearing-in as President ... enjoins him to uphold the Constitution and protect the integrity and sovereignty of Ghana, which entails protecting the nation and its people as well as its natural resources. Currently, a 400-[man] joint military/police anti-galamsey taskforce has been deployed to fight the menace. President Akufo-Addo has also made his intentions clear on fighting corruption and has initiated steps to setting up the office of Special Prosecutor. The Bill to that effect is currently before Parliament. But speaking on ... Starr FM, Dr Aning, who said no government in Ghana can fight corruption well, noted that adding the fight against corruption to the ongoing fight against galamsey will be just too much of a big bite for the President. No government in this country can fight corruption well, [he stated]. Ive advised President Akufo-Addo not to add the corruption fight right now to the galamsey fight. Because the people who are involved in galamsey are also involved in corruption and it will just be too much of a big bite for the President. So lets fight the galamsey fight which is going fairly well [around 52%] and say how do we identify those who are behind the galamsey?. Because the galamsey fight will expose some of the most corrupt people. In all the galamsey fight, no important Ghanaian has been arrested. But there are Ghanaians involved important ones. How do you import equipment from China or Ukraine or Russia and you pass them through the ports, if some important person is not part of it? [Dr Aning asked]. So there are a few important tough questions we need to ask which were not asking yet. So the corruption fight is important but I think we shouldnt combine it with galamsey fight.UNQUOTE At the time of writing, the report of what Dr Aning said had received a rich harvest of 106 comment. Almost all the comments question the logic of his thinking. Unfortunately, many are extremely rude. I give you here, a sampling of the comment headings: A President must be able to multi-task; MOST STUPID ADVICE OF ALL TIME; Woye opanin bone paa [You are a very bad elder] with dirty advice; Kofi Annan must fire this man; NDC SET TRAPS FOR NANA; Awwww!; KWESI ANING IS NOT WELL; Yokogari analysis;[analysis dreamt up through the lens of a meal of garri and beans]; what kind of 'doctors' do we have in Gh?; and The Two are not mutually exclusive. You get the drift. I wish I had enough space to relay to you, some of the reasons given in support of the above headings. You can find the report and comments on it at: https://www.ghanaweb.com/Ghana HomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.p hp?ID=590629&comment=0#com The main argument advanced is that the division between the fight against galamsey and that against corruption is an artificial one. Both are evils that are crippling Ghana's economic and social development with equal force. Corruption filches from the public purse, moneys that could be used to provide employment for the unemployed who claim falsely that they carry out galamsey because that is the only avenue open to them to earn a living. When SSNIT bills the Ghana exchequer $72m for software that should have cost only $3m; when named companies over-inflate purchases of all types, be it of rubbish bins or phone-tapping equipment; when millions are paid to clear rubbish from our streets and markets and yet our cities remain as filthy and smelly as ever - where shall we get money to fight galamsey? To rehabilitate the rivers streams, water-bodies and farms which galamsey has killed dead? The comments on his statement should teach Dr Aning that maybe he's too detached from public opinion in Ghana. The AU, the UN and his current ivory tower may be good places to theorise and pontificate from, but the thinking there will not often pass muster when subjected to rigorous common-sense analysis" by a gathering of voters under a neem tree anywhere in Ghana. One commenter, for instance, made this point: QUOTE The hard-working workers and farmers of this country are behind Akufo-Addo on both the "war-fronts" [Dr Aning is] talking about. For corruption takes money away from projects that could bring good roads, better health facilities and educational services.[Does] this man want Akufo Addo to fold his arms and watch the SSNIT, SADA, GYEEDA, Zoomlion, Agambire, Juspong and other mafias steal all our money, without being severely punished? Because he can't fight on two fronts at the same time? That is pure theory and ...it favours the [NDC's] status quo ante. .It will harm Akufo Addo politically if he listens to it. The fight against galamsey has already gained the support of the majority of the well-meaning Ghanaian populace. ...The populace are fully aware that unless that fight succeeds, their children and THEIR children will be doomed to live in a country that is only left with polluted and ruined water bodies. LIFE WILL THEN BECOME UNSUSTAINABLE IN GHANA.... The more money is given for that struggle, and for rehabilitation purposes, the better. And that money will not become available unless corruption is ruthlessly uprooted. .So: Go for it, Nana! UNQUOTE Over to you, then, Dr Kwesi Aning! Recant now or be "damned" for ever in the eyes f Ghanaians. The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is undertaking a study on flooding in Kumasi and how to address it. Its aimed at building community resilience through social responsibility, with a focus on public understanding of the risks. Head of Department of Centre Settlement Studies, Dr. Divine Ahadzie said Recent floods have exposed the stark vulnerability of Ghanaian cities to flood hazards. With increasing urbanization, population growth and climate change, the threat is expected to be disastrous, he added. The project will begin at Sepe-Buokrom, one of the flood-prone suburbs of Kumasi. Settlement experts appreciate structural measures are critical. However, flooding events such as happened in 2007, 2010, 2015, and 2016 give drive for new adaptation and mitigation strategies. There is need to engender community resilience in terms of preparedness, mitigation and adaptation (PMA) strategies. So far, five focus group discussions involving male and female adults, opinion leaders, youth and children have taken place. It will stimulate community engagement and involvement in efforts towards flood preparedness, mitigation and adaptation strategies. A risk framework will form the basis for sharing resilience strategies of communities to floods, preparedness, mitigation and adaption. Data is being analyzed but the community agrees the Assemblyman, Member of Parliament and chiefs (APC) must team up and lead the initiative. The APC dimension is what Dr Ahadzie refers to as the potential Iron Triangle which will promote community resilience initiatives for disaster management in Ghanaian settlements. Findings will be presented to community stakeholders before a town hall meeting to validate the report. University of Cape Town through Ford Foundation in South Africa is supporting the study under the African Urban Research Initiative. United Nations (United States) (AFP) - South Sudan's government has shown little interest in a new regional peace initiative that the United States has described as a final chance to end the war, the UN peacekeeping chief said Tuesday. The UN Security Council has thrown its weight behind the drive by the regional IGAD group to kick-start the peace process through its "revitalization forum" of a 2015 deal that has failed to take hold. "With regard to the revitalization forum announced by IGAD, the government has only given a lukewarm response," Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN under-secretary-general for peacekeeping, told the Security Council. Led by Ethiopia, foreign ministers of the seven-nation Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) met with President Salva Kiir this month and exiled rebel leader Riek Machar in South Africa. Kiir "reportedly committed to support the forum while asking a series of clarifications on its objectives that IGAD agreed to address in writing," said Lacroix. Machar and other opposition leaders have "declared cautious support to the process," he added. US Ambassador Nikki Haley is expected to travel to South Sudan this month to press for progress in ending the war that has killed thousands and driven nearly four million people from their homes. Haley, who will be the highest-ranking administration official to visit Africa, last month said the regional initiative is "the last chance at salvaging the peace agreement." The United States is South Sudan's biggest aid provider and a key supporter of its 2011 independence from Sudan. South Sudan descended into war in December 2013 when Kiir accused Machar, his former deputy, of plotting a coup. Lacroix said recent fighting in northern Jonglei and Upper Nile as well as in the Equatoria states were "cause for grave concern." The peacekeeping chief said the coming start of the dry season could lead to more fighting. The United Nations has 17,000 peacekeepers in South Sudan, tasked with protecting civilians. More than 200,000 people are sheltering at UN bases. Ghana and Ivory Coast have established a joint Committee to oversee the implementation of the recent judgment by the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), over the two countries maritime border dispute. Following a declaration by Ghanaian President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, that the dispute and its eventual resolution had strengthened the relationship between the two neighbouring nations, the Committee has been put in place to ensure that the terms of the judgement are upheld. The Chamber in a unanimous decision on Saturday, September 23, 2017, had ruled that there has not been any violation on the part of Ghana on Cote d'Ivoire's maritime boundary. The Chamber rejected Cote d'Ivoire's argument that Ghana's coastal lines were unstable. It also noted that, Ghana has not violated Cote d'Ivoire's sovereign rights with its oil exploration in the disputed basin. There were suggestions that the ruling would mar diplomatic ties between the West African neighbours, but this announcement appears to have dismissed those fears. In a joint communique signed by Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey and Marcelamon Tanoh, Foreign Affairs Ministers of Ghana and Ivory Coast respectively, on the Ivorian leaders recent visit, the two nations agreed to cooperate to ensure the Tribunals judgement is implemented. Both Presidents acknowledged the spirit of brotherliness with which the maritime dispute between the two countries was handled from the beginning, and in this connection, the two leaders expressed their commitment to ensure the smooth implementation of the ruling by the Special Chamber of the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) on the delimitation of the maritime boundaries between the two countries, the communique said. In order to achieve this, the two leaders announced the establishment of a Joint Committee for the Implementation of the ITLOS judgement and indicated that the composition of the Committee would be decided later. The two leaders also expressed their commitment towards strengthening the relationship between their nations across various sectors including the economy, cocoa production, defence and transport. The two Presidents also agreed to meet at least once every year, alternately in each others country to guide and promote the implantation of the common strategic policies, the communique added. Nana Addo also presented President Ouattara with The Companion of the Star of Ghana, Honorary Division, which is Ghanas highest honour for a civilian in honour of his fight against social injustice and his efforts to ensure peace both on the continent and globally. President Ouattara expressed his gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for the very warm welcome and brotherly hospitality accorded him and his delegation in Ghana, the statement concluded. Below is the joint communique released by the governments of Ghana OFFICIAL VISIT TO GHANA BY HIS EXCELLENCY ALASSANE OUATTARA PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF COTE DIVOIRE 1. At the invitation of His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Cote dIvoire, paid a working and friendly visit to Ghana from 16th to 17th October, 2017. 2. President Ouattara was accompanied by a high powered delegation comprising Ministers of State, members of Government and several Senior Officials. The full list of the delegation is attached as Appendix I. 3. The Government and people of Ghana warmly welcomed the Ivorian delegation in a true demonstration of the proverbial Ghanaian hospitality. 4. President Ouattara expressed his appreciation to the Government and people of Ghana for the overwhelming love and enthusiasm shown him from the moment he set foot on Ghanaian soil and indicated that his visit and that of President Akuffo-Addos visit to Cote d Ivoire in May this year was a clear manifestation of the exemplary ties between the two countries. 5. He thanked the Government and People of Ghana for the immense support and solidarity demonstrated during the Ivorian crisis and fondly recalled the crucial role played by His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo who was then the Foreign Minister of Ghana, by taking a principled and objective stance that ensured the peaceful resolution of the crisis in Cote d'Ivoire. In this connection, President Ouattara thanked President Akufo-Addo for his personal efforts in ensuring the return of Cote d'Ivoire to the path of democracy. 7. The two Presidents held fruitful deliberations on a wide range of issues in a very cordial and fraternal atmosphere. 8. The two leaders also reviewed Ghana-Cote dIvoire bilateral relations, and agreed to continue to build on the existing special bonds of kinship and cooperation for the mutual benefit of their peoples. 9. To this end, both Presidents indicated their commitment to ensure the continuous deepening of brotherly ties beyond the existing framework for bilateral cooperation, such as the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation, and agreed to boost the momentum of Ghanaian-Ivorian Cooperation by establishing a strategic cooperation framework referred to as the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA), which covers the following areas: a) Defence and Security (b) Cocoa and Cashew and other strategic crops; (c) Maritime Cooperation (d) Mining, Energy and Environment (e) Transport; and (f) Economic Policies. 10. The two leaders noted that peace and security constituted a sine qua non for development and therefore, agreed to strengthen cooperation in the area of Defence and Security to combat human trafficking, money laundering, drug trafficking and the proliferation of arms. 11. Both Presidents agreed to intensify bilateral cooperation for the development of a win-win strategy for a sustainable cocoa industry. In this regard, the two leaders expressed commitment to the ongoing discussions between the Ghana Cocoa Board and Le Conseil Cafe-Cacao to develop joint marketing strategies in the international trading platform and other related issues in the industry, and pledged to work together to enhance border security to curb the smuggling of cocoa. 12. Both Presidents acknowledged the spirit of brotherliness with which the maritime dispute between the two countries was handled from the beginning and, in this connection, the two leaders expressed their commitment to ensure the smooth implementation of the ruling by the Special Chamber of the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) on the delimitation of the maritime boundaries between the two countries. 13. In order to achieve this, the two leaders announced the establishment of a Joint Committee for the Implementation of the ITLOS judgement and indicated that the composition of the Committee would be decided later. 14. The two Presidents also agreed to meet at least once every year, alternately in each others country to guide and promote the implantation of the common strategic policies. 15. After two days of deliberations, the two countries signed the following Agreements: Strategic Partnership Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the Government of the Republic of Cote dIvoire; Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the Government of the Republic of Cote dIvoire for Geological and Mineral Cooperation; Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of Ghana and the Government of the Republic of Cote dIvoire for Industrial Cooperation. Memorandum of Understanding for the Establishment of a Joint Technical Experts Sub-Committee for the Monitoring of Pollution from the Illegal Mining activities in the Bia and Tano River Basins shared between Ghana and Cote dIvoire. 16. President Akufo-Addo bestowed the honour of The Companion of the Star of Ghana, , Honorary Division, Ghana's highest civilian national honour on President Ouattara for his untiring efforts at ensuring social justice, peace and security at the domestic as well as the international level for his leadership qualities. 17. President Ouattara expressed his gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for the very warm welcome and brotherly hospitality accorded him and his delegation in Ghana. DONE AT ACCRA THIS 17TH DAY OF OCTOBER 2017 IN THE ENGLISH AND FRENCH LANGUAGES, BOTH TEXTS BEING EQUALLY AUTHENTIC. HON. SHIRLEY AYORKOR BOTCHWEY, MP, MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND REGIONAL INTEGRATION OF REPUBLIC OF GHANA H.E. MR. MARCELAMON TANOH MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF COTE DIVOIRE By: Edwin Kwakofi/citifmonline.com/Ghana In an effort to deepen trade and investment with Italy, a delegation from the World Trade Centre (WTC) Accra paid a working visit to the Italian Ambassador to Ghana, Giovanni Favilli at his Embassy in Accra. The Managing Director of WTC Accra, Mr. Emmanuel Doni-Kwame recounted efforts undertaken by WTC Accra to deepen Ghana Italy trade and investment in the past few years. He indicated that, WTC Accra organized top Ghanaian businesses and government officials to participate in 2014 ECOMONDO in Italy and a Ghana Country Presentation organized with UNIDO ITPO and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy. To leverage the successes chalked, Mr. Doni-Kwame hinted that another business delegation would be organized to participate in this years ECOMONDO in November and a Ghana Country Presentation will be organized in 2018. Mr. Doni-Kwame informed the Ambassador that the cordial relationship WTC Accra has built over the years continuous to benefit the national economy as it is currently organising the participation of officials from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Africa World Airlines which is co-founded by its Executive Chairman, Togbe Afede XIV, to the Padova Looking Ahead and Beyond 2017 study tour of the aerospace sector in Italy. Mr. Doni-Kwame also mentioned that promoting the WTC concept on the African continent is of paramount importance to WTC Accra. First among the reasons is the great strides African countries have made over the last few decades in terms of economic development and the need to help integrate African countries into the multilateral and plurilateral trading system. He said the upcoming Continent Free Trade Agreement will inure to the benefit of Africans but achieving this will require that the necessary synergies are created to ensure that trade is facilitated. This is what WTC Accra seeks to achieve by helping to establish other WTCs in other African countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, Rwanda and Cote d'Ivoire, he said. He expressed his delight at the ongoing construction of a World Trade Centre in Nigeria, Africas biggest economy, and noted that this would further boost trade and integration on the continent. Ambassador Favilli receiving the delegation indicated that the story of Africa over the last few decades has changed dramatically from a continent of little progress to one with numerous opportunities. He said despite its challenges, Africa continues to rise to the admiration of many over the world. The story of Africa is now Africa rising, he observed. There is the need for technology and information exchange in order to harness the opportunities in Africa. It is for this reason that the Embassy sees the WTC Accra as a credible partner to work with in Ghana he said. He said is a strong interest in Africa now than before and assured that Italy would work collaboratively with Ghana to grow each others economies. He said facilitating trade and investment between the two countries is the main focus of the Italian Embassy in Ghana and therefore sees the need to build a strategic relationship with the World Trade Centre Accra. Besides trade and investment, the Ambassador said addressing irregular migration is also of utmost importance to Italy. Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com Tunis (AFP) - Tunisian rescuers pulled more bodies from the sea Tuesday a week after a migrant boat sank following a crash with a navy vessel, the defence ministry said, raising the death toll to 44. Nine corpses were found trapped inside the migrant boat that went down in the Mediterranean sea on October 8 after the collision off the coast of the Kerkennah islands, the ministry said. The defence ministry said search operations were ongoing. At the time of the collision, the ministry said eight migrants drowned and 38 others were rescued, while NGOs and survivors spoke of dozens still missing. An NGO, the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), estimates the boat carried between 80 and 100 migrants. One of the migrants rescued after the tragedy told AFP that 90 people had been on board, hoping to make their way to Italy. Others who survived the tragedy claimed that their boat had been deliberately struck by the navy vessel. Military prosecutors are investigating the claims. According to the International Organization for Migration, there has been a rise in the number of migrants trying to make the perilous sea crossing from Tunisia to Europe since summer. Small vessels have been heading for the Italian islands of Sicily and Lampedusa. Flavio di Giacomo, an Italian spokesman for the IOM, told AFP earlier this month that 1,400 Tunisians had arrived in Lampedusa and western Sicily in September alone. This is compared to 1,200 registered in Italy for all of 2016. A report by the FTDES last year said that half of Tunisian youths from low-income areas were thinking of leaving the country, and one in three was prepared to do so clandestinely. It blamed the situation on increasing poverty and unemployment in the North African country. Abrantie College is one out of many modern creative arts institution which has been in existence from 2007 till now (2017) with great achievement int the creative art industry of Ghana. Hence Abrantie of cosmetology today held a press launch to outline their 10th anniversary celebration at the college's conference hall. The launch was addressed by the CEO of the college, King David Thompson and other team members of the college. Speaking to the media, Mr. Thompson said the college has outlined series of events and outdoor programs which will engage the general public with the students of the college. In the history of Cosmetology in this country, Abrantie College of Cosmetology takes a personal interest in the progress of each student. The Cosmetology industry is looking for caring people with creative and practical skills. According to Abrantie their main aim is for students is to build their foundation, pass National and International Exams and progress to the tertiary institutions in Ghana and beyond which will make our students successful in their chosen careers. Continuing, Mr. Thompson laments that as part of the celebration the college is giving out Tuition scholarship to 15 needy students for one year. He however pleaded on donors to invest in cosmetology, fashion and it likes. Cosmetologists, Beauty Therapists, Barbers, Make-up Artists and Nail Technologists trained at Abrantie College of Cosmetology are always in demand. Their students are most highly recommended in the industry. For the 10years anniversary at least 6000 old students are expected to attend the grand occasion. In conclusion, Mr. Thompson intruded that parents should not look at this industry as one for dropouts but should consider it for their wards from infancy if they show interest. In attendance for the press launch were management of the college, the press, tutors, parents and students. In an effort to deepen trade and investment with Italy, a delegation from the World Trade Centre (WTC) Accra paid a working visit to the Italian Ambassadorto Ghana, H.E.Giovanni Favilliat in Accra. The Managing Director of WTC Accra, Mr. Emmanuel Doni-Kwame recounted efforts undertaken by WTC Accra to deepen Ghana Italy trade and investment in the past few years. He indicted that WTC Accra organized top Ghanaian businesses and government officials to participate in 2014 ECOMONDO in Italy and a Ghana Country Presentation organized with UNIDO ITPO and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy. To leverage the successes chalked, Mr. Doni-Kwame hinted that another business delegation would be organized to participate in this years ECOMONDO in November and a Ghana Country Presentation will be organized in 2018. Mr. Doni-Kwame informed the Ambassador that the cordial relationship WTC Accra has built over the years continuous to benefit the national economy as it is currently organising the participation of officials from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Africa World Airlines which is co-founded by its Executive Chairman, Togbe Afede XIV, to the Padova Looking Ahead and Beyond 2017 study tour of the aerospace sector in Italy. He said though most people have shown interest in oil and gas exploration in Ghana, they are waiting for the outcome of the Ghana-Cote Divoire dispute settlement. He said a favourable ruling for Ghana would help to draw more Italian oil and gas companies to Ghana. Mr. Doni-Kwame also mentioned that promoting the WTC concept on the African continent is of paramount importance to WTC Accra. First among the reasons is the great strides African countries have made over the last few decades in terms of economic development and the need to help integrate African countries into the multilateral and plurilateral trading system. He said the upcoming Continent Free Trade Agreement will inure to the benefit of Africans but achieving this will require that the necessary synergies are created to ensure that trade is facilitated. This is what WTC Accra seeks to achieve by helping to establish other WTCs in other African countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, Rwanda and Cote Divoire, he said. He expressed his delight at the ongoing construction of a World Trade Centre in Nigeria, Africas biggest economy, and noted that this would further boost trade and integration on the continent. Ambassador Favilli receiving the delegation indicated that the story of Africa over the last few decades has changed dramatically from a continent of little progress to one with numerous opportunities. He said despite its challenges, Africa continuous to rise to the admiration of many over the world. The story of Africa is now Africa rising, he observed. There is the need for technology and information exchange in order to harness the opportunities in Africa.It is for this reason that the Embassy sees the WTC Accra as a credible partner to work with in Ghana he said. He said is a strong interest in Africa now than before and assured that Italy would work collaboratively with Ghana to grow each others economies. He said facilitating trade and investment between the two countries is the main focus of the Italian Embassy in Ghana and therefore sees the need to build strategic relationship with the World Trade Centre Accra. Besides trade and investment, the Ambassador said addressing irregular migration is also of utmost importance to Italy. Delta Airlines joined thousands of Ghanaians and people from the diaspora to participate in the walk for the cure event organized in Koforidua in the Eastern region. The walk was aimed at creating awareness on breast cancer so that people will see the need to for an early checkup and subsequent cure. As part of the awareness which falls on the month of October, Delta Airlines has extended its support for Ghanas Breast Care International (BCI) for another 12 months funding vital screening for women and men across the country. Over the past year, through Deltas partnership, about 1,300 suspected cases have been detected after BCI screened more than 11,600 people for signs of breast cancer in rural regions including Akoefe, Bepoase, Aburi, Koforidua, Accra, Kumasi and Sunyani Operations manager of Delta Airlines, Vickie Von Williams, said the renewal of their partnership with BCI will enable more men and women to receive free screening and urged the public to take advantage of the opportunity. The airline and its customers have also raised $12.8 million and funded more than 40 research projects to help end breast cancer. The airline team at the Kotoka International airport has also decorated the Delta area pink for the whole of the month of October. Delta has operated flights to Ghana since 2006 and operates nonstop service up to five times a week to New York-JFK. In Africa, it also serves Lagos, Nigeria, Dakar, South Africa and many other places Story by Ghana| Myjoyonline | Abubakar Ibrahim 17.10.2017 LISTEN The Convener of Ahlu Zikri Centre for Islamic Affairs, Mr Osman Mohammadu Mugib has advised Muslims to eschew untoward social devices and inculcate the life style of prophet Mohammad. According to him the goldly and well mannered character of the holy prophet necessitated the acceleration of Islam globally with over two billion people accepting the religion of Islam. "He didn't travel outside the Arebia country, but his teachings now has no bound, he is able to influence majority in the world due to his social life and human relation, so I believe if Muslims of today replicate the prophet life style there will be progress in every society." Addressing some Islamic scholars and Muslims faiths at the 4th annual celebration of the prophet birth( Mawlid) in tamale, dubbed [email protected]: The role of Muslims in the liberation of African: A case study of Sheikh Ibrahim Ayass and Independence of Ghana. Mr Mohammadu Mugib said celebrating and learning how such personality succeeded is extremely important in the empowerment of Muslims politically, economic, social and other equal significant things in the world. Mr Mohammadu Mugib said the celebration of the prophet birth aims at promoting the through image of Islam, and further explain the core principals the prophet stood for during his life time, adding that the Ahlul Zikri centre for Islamic affairs as part of their responsibilities had carryout series of lectures which are of immense benefit to the socioeconomic of the country. He revealed that Sheikh Ibrahim Anyass who happens to be a close associate to Dr Kwame Nkrumah played a crucial role in the liberation of mother Ghana independence. According to him Sheikh Ibrahim Anyass was an Pan-Africanist who spiritually and intellectual helped Dr Kwame Nkrumah against the colonial Masters. Mr Mugib argued that Dr Kwame Nkrumah following the failure of several past senior citizens to liberate Ghana from the colonial rule wouldn't had succeeded without the involvement of Sheikh Ibrahim Anyass who manifested from the linage of prophet Mohammad. According to him the spiritual leader was a clear representation of the holy prophet due to his fair judgment, knowledge, forgiveness, care and living in peace and harmony with other religious faiths. Mr Mugeem said Sheikh Ibrahim Ayass during his time encouraged girls child education, which by then wasn't accepted by scores of intellectuals. He therefore urged the various religious faiths in the country to love one another and promote peace and cordial relation, this according to him was the life style of the prophet and Sheikh Ibrahim. He seized the opportunity of the occasion, and appealed to historians and writers in Ghana to acknowledge the efforts of personality like Sheikh Ibrahim Anyass, whom according to him lift the shores of his mother land (Senegal) to Ghana to facilitate the independence of Ghana and other nearby Africa countries. Mr Mugib however enumerated that Ahlul Zikri Centre for Islamic Affairs is an institute of Muslim youth formed by the adherent of the Tijaniya ideology (Sufi) in order to come out with contemporary programmes which include economic and social topics to help in the educate people at the hinterlands, and further educate the Muslim masses the actual teaching of Islam and the tradition of the prophet. Some of the leading Islamic scholars who grace the occasion include, Sheikh Alhussan Zakaria, Sheikh Mohammad Amin Bamba, Sheikh Hassan Mubajal, Sheikh Eliasu, Sheikh Abdul Razak Kadir and Sheikh Marizuk Three-year-old Prince Baka and four-year-old Mariam Damali, met their untimely death after they were trapped in the collapsed wall of a church building, which was providing them shelter during a downpour. The pupils, about 40, were enrolled into the new community school established by the Church, Jesus Kingdom Ministry, in the Alorgui suburb of Dzodze; just by the access route to the Republic of Togo. Kingdom International School, which started three months ago, has been operating without clearance from the District Education Service. The Managers house the kids in a wooden pavilion, fenced with mats made from palm branches, and corrugated iron roofing. Citi News gathered that, the children were in the makeshift classroom when the rains started, and the teachers had to relocate them to the church building nearby. While in the chapel, the wall on the altar collapsed on 18 of the children killing two instantly. The rest who sustained various degrees of injury including fractures and dislocations, were rushed to the St Anthony's Hospital in Dzodze. The District Manager of National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Mr. Atikese who has been leading investigations into the collapsed building observed, the church building has structural defects. The Public Relations Officer of the Education Service, Benjamin Dunyo, who was outwardly disappointed by the situation, disclosed that his outfit started an exercise to close down schools that are operating illegally in the district, but was yet to discover the said school. Meanwhile, the owner of the school, Pastor Sosu Baka, who also lost his son in the incident, was remorseful and promised to regularize his operations with the Ghana Education Service. Citi News visit to the hospital saw the surviving sixteen (16) children on admission, who are responding to treatment according to hospital officials. The Dzodze incident followed a similar one that occurred at Adrakpo, in the Akatsi South District, where a young girl lost her life after a school building owned by a local church collapsed on her. By: King Nobert Akpblie/citifmonline.com/Ghana Some 245 trained but unemployed doctors, have questioned the efforts of the Health and Finance Ministries in absorbing them into the public service. The doctors, who graduated in 2014, say all efforts to secure financial clearance for their absorption have proved futile, whiles many hospitals lack doctors, putting the lives of patients at risk. In a heartfelt petition to Citi News to highlight their plight, a doctor, John-Diego Kosoe, lamented the dire situation of his colleagues who are idle. This has even compelled some doctors to leave Ghana for greener pastures, he said. The petitioner noted that, out of frustration, I know 3 of my colleagues who contracted huge personal loans and left the country for Germany, just to hustle out there, to do German language courses and get absorbed into their system. As it stands now, Ghana has one doctor attending to about 10, 450 patient. This is far below the one doctor to 5000 patients ratio per the recommendations of the Commonwealth, and the 1 doctor to 1,320 patients per the recommendations from WHO. Dr. Kosoe notes in his appeal that, he is personally interested in Psychiatry but is unable to contribute to this sector of healthcare which is known to be a neglected medical field in Ghana. Ive been to Pantang psychiatry where they need over 6 Medical Officers, same with Accra Psychiatry Hospital. Its even worse at Ankaful. At the moment, Ankaful Psychiatry has only one active Medical Officer at that facility. They are all willing to take doctors through Mental Health Authority, but cant do so until weve been cleared by the MoH/MoF, he said. Find below the full petition sent to Citi FM Hello Mr. Avle Hope youre doing good by Gods grace. This email is to inform you of my plight and some other 244 MEDICAL DOCTORS who have been home for past 5-6months awaiting ,o get financial clearance to be absorbed into the public sector. BACKGROUND; 1. Most of us graduated from University of Ghana Medical school (about 120) with the rest from UDS, UCC, UST-SMS and a few foreign trained folks. We graduated in 2014, others in early 2015. 2. We undertook the compulsory 2yr housemanship training which ended in May/June 2017. I personally did my first year in Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and the Second year in the district, Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital, Akuapim Mampong. I completed my last rotation in May 2017. 3. We subsequently submitted our log books, a pre-requisite for permanent registration with the Medical and Dental Council. They intern forwarded the list of all in good standing to the MoH for financial clearance so we can be absorbed permanently to help bridge the current gap in doctor/patient ratio. 4. Follow-ups to MoH were initially fruitless until recently, by myself on 9th Oct, 2017 showed that theyve forwarded same to MoF. Checks at MoF shows otherwise though. CONCERN: 1. Ghana as a country has a very huge deficit with regards to Medical Doctors, for how long should we continue to waste this youthful age waiting for clearance? Im personally interested in Psychiatry (so called neglected Medical field in Ghana). Ive been to Pantang psychiatry where they need over 6 Medical Officers, same with Accra Psychiatry Hospital. Its even worse at Ankaful. At the moment Ankaful Psychiatry has only one active Medical Officer at that facility. They are all willing to take doctors through Mental Health Authority but cant do so until weve been cleared by the MoH/MoF. Mr. Avle, same can be said for all our District Hospitals and even the Korle-bus and 37s in Accra 2. Out of frustration, I know 3 of my colleagues who contracted huge personal loans and left the country for Germany, just to hustle out there, to do German language courses and get absorbed into their system. Lets not forget all these loans add up to the None Performing Loans crippling our economy. Lot more are leaving for the southern Africa nations, USA, UK etc. 3. Six months at home, as an unemployed doctor puts undue pressure not just on us, our dependents but the entire nation. MY OWN MOTHER HAD TO BE TRANSPORTED FROM KRACHI TO HOHOE JUST TO BE ATTENDED TO BY A DOCTOR EARLY THIS YEAR, SHE ALMOST LOST HER LIVE. WHY? BECAUSE KRACHI GOVT HOSPITAL HAD NO DOCTORS. How many more do we have to let die/have sub-standard care due to lack of doctors in our hospitals, especially district Hospitals! How long Avle?? MISCONCEPTION: 1. Recently, I heard some politicians, including Prof. Akosa paint it as if the doctor patient ratio is as a result of low production from the various training institutions, I beg to defer. Even if it does over 245 of us home if employed will change the outcome. Avle, how long do we have to die as Ghanaians because there are no doctors in our facilities? How long must I wait as a Medical Doctor to get clearance to work? 5-6months and counting!!! EXPECTATION FROM YOU; Your advocacy and media enquiry into such an important issue might help in getting 245 Ghanaian doctors employed in Ghana, thereby improving our health sector. (Current net salary of a Medical officer is about Ghc 3980, it will take far less to get every district in Ghana +1 MO than what is being splashed on student allowances) I am #UnemployedDoctor I am bitter for the Health sector I am bitter for Psychiatry I am honestly loosing hope in our nation Avle Thank you Dr. John-diego Kosoe Tema 0243076208 By: Delali Adogla-Bessa/citifmonline.com/Ghana 18.10.2017 LISTEN Turkeys deputy prime minister has announced that 35 Somalis, including three children, injured in Saturdaystruck bombing in capital Mogadishu, arrived in the Turkish capital Ankara late Monday, while Somali politicians expressed their gratitude for Turkeys help. The blast at a busy road junction, blamed on Al-Shabaab terrorists, killed at least 276 people and wounded more than 300 others, according to Somali National News Agency, SONNA. Speaking to reporters in Ankara, Recep Akdag said that the patients, of whom 13 were severely injured, would be transferred to Polatl, Numune and Gulhane hospitals. The deputy PM added that currently 33 staff members of the Turkish Health Ministry were in Somalia and more patients could be transferred to Turkey if necessary. Turkeys Health Minister Ahmet Demircan arrived in the Somali capital to oversee Turkish assistance, accompanied by 33 staff, including an emergency services medical team, the Turkish Embassy said in a statement. A Turkish aircraft loaded with medical aid and emergency services workers, including 13 workers from the Turkish Red Crescent and the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), landed in Mogadishu Monday morning. The Turkish humanitarian and medical aid was welcomed by the Somali government and people. Somalias President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed on Monday said during a visit to Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu that his government and Somali people would not forget Turkeys help. 18.10.2017 LISTEN The involvement of the UAE in promoting the division of Somalia through the support of the Republic of Somaliland The bombing that hit the Somali capital, described by observers as the strongest witnessed by Mogadishu in its history, opened the door to many questions, especially in light of questioning the ability of the youth movement to implement, and promote the intelligence agencies belonging to a state or countries to stand and involvement in it. The explosion, which is unusual in nature and size, is one of the most vital places near the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Qatari Embassy, without anyone claiming responsibility for it. This raises the question of who is behind it. In the logic of search for the beneficiary, observers believe that one of those beneficiaries of the bombing is the UAE, due to old differences renewed with the Somali government, which recently rejected the pressure on the province of Qatar, in addition to the dispute over the rule of the UAE Somaliland separated from the mother country . Abu Dhabi is one of the main beneficiaries of the bombing The Somali government has yet to announce the official final toll of the accident, but the latest medical report says more than 500 people have died, half of them dead. The blast comes two days after the Somali defense minister, Abdul Rashid Abdullah Mohammed, and the countrys army chief, Ahmed Jamal Gedi, resigned from their posts. Although the minister and the commander of the armed forces did not announce the reasons for their resignation, some media sources pointed out that the resignation due to differences in views in a number of security files, including the incident of the town of Berri in southern Somalia, where US forces killed more than 11 civilians , And then contradicted the statements of the commander of the armed forces, who said that the dead civilians, while the Minister of Defense they are terrorist elements of the youth movement. Exclude youth The al-Shabaab movement, which usually claims responsibility for the bombings or attacks of the central government in Somalia, did not move a finger, and did not signal the adoption of the incident, unlike previous operations that were quick to declare responsibility. Although the movement was expelled from the capital Mogadishu in August 2011 and lost much of the territory it previously controlled, it continues to launch regular attacks and bombings in Mogadishu and other towns against military and civilian targets as well as carry out attacks in neighboring Kenya. However, these attacks are not such a capability, using hundreds of kilograms of explosives, at a location near the Somali Foreign Ministry and the Qatari Embassy in particular. UAE is accused Excluding the youth movement, observers question who has the capability to carry out such a bombing of this magnitude, and who is the beneficiary? According to observers, one of the accusers is the UAE, due to its differences with Somalia, on several levels, including the crisis of the UAE military base in Somaliland, the Turkish military base recently inaugurated, Against Qatar. Talk about the involvement of the UAE in supporting terrorism in Somalia, as evidenced by the semi-annual semi-annual report of the Panel of Experts of the UN Security Council sanctions committee on Somalia and Eritrea, which includes an arms embargo on both countries. The report, which revealed details two weeks ago, included full paragraphs on violations by the UAE of international resolutions, whether by smuggling arms or forging official documents to overcome the ban on the export of coal from Somalia, which the Security Council considered to be the most important financial sources of the youth movement . Enhanced partitioning Observers confirmed the UAEs involvement in promoting the division of Somalia and supporting the internationally recognized Somaliland, which declared its secession from the rest of Somalia in 1991 but which the international community does not recognize as an independent state. Despite the declared position of the UAE on the unity of Somalia and its sponsorship of a reconciliation initiative between the parties to the Somali crisis, the parties signed the Dubai Reconciliation Pact after talks in London and Istanbul. The UAE sought economic and strategic gains within Somaliland at the expense of the alleged unit through media, Emirati during the past two years, has never played on the unity side. Over the past two years, the UAE media have promoted the internationally recognized Somaliland country as a land of stability, culture and democracy. In July 2015, Ahmed Mohamed Selano, head of Somaliland, revealed the UAEs intention to set up large-scale projects in Somaliland, northern Somalia. Somaliland base It did not stop at that point, but the UAE is trying to establish a military base in the city of Berbera on the Gulf of Aden, located within Somaliland. In February, however, the Somali government rejected the unilaterally-declared agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Somaliland on the establishment of the military base, accusing the UAE of violating international law. Last year, an Emirati company signed an agreement with Somaliland for $ 442 million to develop the Berbera port for military use, after it was used mainly to export livestock to the Middle East. The UAE, through Dubai World, has the right to manage the port of Berbera, the main port of Somaliland, with a 30-year contract. Later, during a visit by Somali President Mohammed Abdullah Faramago to Saudi Arabia, press reports revealed that the latter requested Saudi mediation to persuade the UAE to abandon the project to establish a military base. The Gulf Crisis With the Gulf crisis, last June, it was reported that Somalia had rejected a Gulf financial offer, which sources said was from the UAE, to sever relations with Qatar. With the outbreak of the war in Yemen in the fall of 2014, some of the rich Gulf states, primarily Saudi Arabia and the UAE, sought for the first time in their history to build military bases outside their territory in the Horn of Africa, specifically in the states of Eritrea and Djibouti, Somalia, Yemen, and the Gulf of Aden, which is the gateway to the Bab al-Mandab strategic strait. The UAE, which secretly orchestrates Turkeys machinations, according to observers, wants the recent hustle in Somalia; Ankara is one of the biggest countries in support of Mogadishu. DCOP Bright Oduro, has been relieved of the position of Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Police Service. ACP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has thus been directed by the Inspector General of Police, David Asante Apeatu, to act as the Director General of the CID. This directive is to take immediate effect, according to a document sighted by Citi News. COP Bright Oduro was the Director General in charge of Welfare at the Police Service before being moved to the CID as the new Director General in January 2017. His replacement, ACP Addo-Danquah, was recently in the news after being accused by Kwame Asare Obeng, also known as A-Plus, of trying to cover-up some malfeasances in the probe of President Akufo-Addo's two Deputy Chiefs of Staff. In an audio said to be a leaked recording of a conversation between A-Plus and ACP Addo-Danquah, the police officer was heard advising the A-Plus to deny the allegations because he is a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Police officer was largely accused of misconduct in the manner she handled the investigation, per the details of the telephone conversation that appeared unprofessional and compromised. She later claimed that the tape was doctored to portray her in a bad light, a claim A-Plus denied. Many had expected that the police officer would have been sanctioned by the service, instead of being promoted. Bright Oduros removal Reasons for Bright Oduro's dismissal remain unknown. However, a report by the Daily Guide Newspaper on Monday suggested that there were a series of petitions against him in some land-related issues, particularly land guards. Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, has been waging a relentless campaign against COP Oduro for his alleged connection with land guards. Just last Thursday, Mr. Agyapong was on Accra-based Oman FM lambasting the police chief over a case involving some policemen at Miotso, near Tema. According to reports, two people Francis Tetteh Botchway, 67; and Mohammed Dziwornu, 29 were murdered in broad daylight at Miotso on December 29, 2016, allegedly by a team of five policemen from the Tema Regional Police Command. The incident, which occurred as a result of a gun battle over a piece of land, also left six other persons with various degrees of gunshot wounds. The Tema Police retrieved two pump action guns, a pistol, one AK 47 rifle with double magazine loaded, Jeep Cherokee and Mercedes Benz cars. The CID headquarters took over investigations into the shooting incident, which occurred in the Ningo-Prampram District, but is yet to arrest and prosecute any suspect as at now. Bright Oduro was set to retire in January 2018, but less than three months to his exit; he has already been shown the door. He was CID boss for about 10months. By: citifmonline.com/Ghana Veteran Nollywood actor, Richard Mofe Damijo better known as RMD is already making it big in the industry he once left for politics as he just won an award. The actor won award at the just concluded Abuja international film festival in the movie 3 wise men. Sharing the good news, he wrote, ''So I won the best actor for my role in 3 wise men at the just concluded Abuja international film festival. It couldn't have come at a better time as we wrap the #glolafftafest2017 today. It's been a long comic ride since April. Laughter is good for the soul, and even the bible acknowledges that a heart that is cheerful is as "medicine for the soul..." which is why I love to laugh and be merry. Like laughter, awards are good for the soul especially when they are not post mortem. People ask me why I still get excited over awards in acting since I have won tons of them. Well, yes, I still get tickled by acting awards, It's who I am, it's what I do and I absolutely love it. It is my art and in it's own way defines me, so any recognition of excellence is a validation that on my lane, I do good work. I adore and totally respect those who do same in their respective fields because when it all comes down to it, really, it's how we impact our little corners that count. I am blessed and thankful that after 33 years of doing this work, I still hunger to be better everyday. My name is Richard Mofe-Damijo I am an actor, grateful for the liberty to express myself through my craft. Who are you?'' The reigning Face Of Nigeria World winner Ijeoma Okafor Maryann has been engaged by her long time friend Julius Ekweozor, the General Overseer Of Charismatic Restoration City. The exclusive engagement hangout followed lovely photo sessions taken in choice locations and with a matching outfits. The final student of Madonna University, Queen Ijeoma who had won some pageant contests in the past was also the former winner of Miss NGO Nigeria. The wedding bell is expected to ring soon as plans are underway. Her pastor husband to be is from Awka North LGA of Anambra while the beauty queen is from Agwu LGA of Enugu state A 50-year old retired Customs officer turned native doctor, Akin Babalola, has been convicted and handed two years imprisonment without an option of fine for defrauding a 72-year old woman, Mrs Dinah Grace over love portion. The convict had alleged that the victim paid him N500,000 to prepare love portion in order to win back her estranged husband after they had separated for some years. However, the presiding Magistrate, Mrs J.O.E Adeyemi found his claim spurious, declared him guilty of fraud and sentenced him accordingly. According to PM News, the Osun State-born Akin Babalola allegedly obtained N500,000 from Dinah Grace under the false pretence of preparing the love potion for her and instead of Babalola keeping his own part of the bargain, he allegedly duped the septuagenarian. Trouble started after Dinah asked Babalola to refund her money since he did not fulfill their agreement but Babalola refused. He threatened to expose her if she asked for the money again. She went to Igando Police Division and reported that Babalola defrauded her under false pretence. Babalola was arrested and taken to the station where he told the police that he collected the money and did not continue with their initial agreement because it involved human life. Henrietta Kosoko was a talented Nigerian actress, whose career began back in 1995. She was considered to be one of the most popular Nollywood stars and was famous for her roles in the movies Eleda Teju and Alayaki. Lets find out what had happened to this beloved Yoruba actress and the lady who was Jide Kosoko wife. READ ALSO: Henrietta Kosoko biography Henrietta Kosoko The actress hailed from Delta State and before she started her acting career, she was a trained caterer. Henrietta and her husband Jide Kosoko met during the a movie premiere in Mushin, Lagos and they soon fell in love with each other. Henrietta had a couple of serious misfortunes happen to her when she was alive. She once got into a terrible accident along the Sagamu-Abeokuta expressway and was barely breathing when she was rushed to the hospital. Also, Henrietta Kosoko suffered from diabetes. So what eventually took her life? Jide Kosoko's third wife's death On June 6, 2016, Henrietta was reported to have slumped at her home and died shortly after. Was it as a result of complications from the accident or was it connected the actress long battle with diabetes? Jide Kosoko, the actress' husband, was finding it difficult to recover from the shock of his wife's death. During an interview with Encomium Magazine, he said: The Kosoko families are not in a good mood to address the press as you can see. I will be glad if you can suspend your activities until the family is ready to attend to the press. The saddest aspect was that Jide was not even around when his wife died and found out only when his friend told him to check the news on the Internet. The actor mentioned that he thought it was only a rumour circulating on the Internet, at first, and could only believe it when he saw what happened with his own eyes. There had been a lot of rumours surrounding Henriettas death since she was the third wife that Kosoko has lost. A lot of people has been wondering if there was something supernatural going on that led to the death of all of Jide Kosoko's wives. Henrietta Kosoko's death The Yoruba actress died at the rather young age, she was just 53. Her brother Krisvosa, who spoke with journalists, said that Henrietta started to feel unwell two weeks before her death and the family took her to the hospital. She seemed to be recovering and everybody was glad to hear that Henrietta was feeling better. But she relapsed and had to be admitted to the hospital for the second time, where she then lost her life after a few days. The actress death was not only a big loss for her husband and fans but for Henriettas four children. Grieving about their mother death, Sola Kosoko and her sister, Bidemi wrote on Facebook: Henrietta Kosoko is dead. We will miss you, Mama. May your soul rest in perfect peace. In addition, ANTP president, Comrade Victor Ashaolu also expressed his condolence to the actress family, describing Henriettas demise as a big blow to us in ANTP, and the film industry. Henrietta was a great actress, loving mother, and wife. Her sudden death came as a shock for everyone and she will be sorely missed and remembered by all fans and family. READ ALSO: Bidemi Kosoko biography Source: Legit.ng Tropical climate reigns in Nigeria, which means the country experiences a high level of rainfall. About half a year there are rains that exert a significant influence on the flora of our country, and as a result, several types of vegetation have formed in different regions. From this article, you will learn about the rainy seasons and their role in vegetation distribution in Nigeria. Nigeria is a large country with different types of climate. The humid subequatorial regime is typical for the southern part, the temperature is low in the mountains, the areas around the middle of the country have a tropical climate, and the tropical continental regime is observed in the north of the country. With regard to precipitation at the coastline, the eastern part records 430cm, the western region records 180 cm, the center of Nigeria records 130cm, the upper north is the driest zone and records only about 50cm. An itchy red dust is brought in by the wind from the Sahara and forms the southwest rainy weather. Temperature almost always remains approximately at the same level in the country, so rainfall can be considered a key factor affecting the formation of vegetation areas. Its level depends on the movement of air masses over the territory of Nigeria at different periods.. Southern part of Nigeria There are two types of rainy seasons in the southern part of Nigeria. Let us discuss each of them separately. Long heavy rainy season This phenomenon with 85% humidity is observed from March to July. The strongest rains are in June. The sky is covered with thick clouds and the weather becomes very wet. Consequences of rain are best seen in the coastal area and Niger Delta. Short season of rains This rainy season in Nigeria passes very quickly between the beginning of September and middle of October, it is usually called the "August break". Peak precipitation is reached at the end of the first month of Autumn. August is usually a dry month, ideal for sowing on fields, after which the rains return to supply farms with much needed moisture. Rains, in this case, are not as strong as in the previous one. Slight precipitation creates an excellent environment for harvesting, so farmers greet it with great enthusiasm. READ ALSO: Months of rainy season in Nigeria 1. Mangrove In this zone there are many understated bogs associated with rivers. In addition to rains, saline water affects local vegetation. As a result of this, there is a lot of salt and the soil is very poor. However, it is possible to grow rice in stabilized areas and unleavened bogs. 2. Fresh Water Swamp These forests are rich in fresh water. Such vegetation in Nigeria appears next to the rivers and ponds. There are many mangrove bogs here and tidal waters do not fall into this area. It is rich in lagoons, estuaries, streams. Due to the high inflow of water, silt, sand and mud are deposited on the bottom. During the rainy seasons rivers and lagoons can widen. Since the area is low (no more than 30 m above sea level) flooding is its characteristic phenomenon; sometimes rain water can be remain in one place for 8-9 months. The vegetation in the country is rich and diverse; plants are used for the production of various goods. A lot of oil palms and large trees like Iroko grow in well drained areas. Also, local residents engage in fishing in areas that witness a lot of rainfall. 3. Rainforest These tropical forests grow in River Cross valley and also on the right bank of River Niger. Trees of the first tier reach from 40 to 45 m and have powerful roots, widely diverging from the trunk; this powerful feature prevents them from being destroyed by natural forces. In the 2nd and the 3rd tier, there are many lianas and epiphytes interweaving with each other and trying to reach for sunlight. The foliage is so dense that it does not let in sun's rays. In the north of this area, there is 1600 mm of precipitation. Forests dont grow as intensively because of the drier soil and relatively low humidity; and the leaves of some trees found here fall in the dry season. In tropical forests, there is hard-to-reach undergrowth. When moving to the north, vegetation becomes less dense passing into the savannah. Central and northern parts of Nigeria Wet long rainy season This is a long period between June and September. The maximum duration and intensity of precipitation is observed in the north and is less significant in the south. Rains are strong but dont last long. Storms and other natural disasters such as erosion or flooding are considered to be traditional phenomena. Such rainfall distribution in Nigeria has caused the appearance of the vegetation zones described below: 1. Montane Since this territory is located in an over-inflated zone, a peculiar high-mountain vegetation has formed here. It can't be called the richest in Nigeria because the air temperature is not high. Jos plateau is one of the highest points in the country where you can find meadows and pastures. On the slopes, you find forest vegetation that is good for growing various crops and grazing herds. 2. Guinea Savanna This zone occupies approximately half of Nigeria's territory. Here the climate is relatively humid and annual rainfall is from 1000 to 1400 mm. Such vegetation is often located near river banks and can be mixed with park savannas. Grasses found in this area are quite high and a comfortable habitat for large animals. One can also find many varieties of elephant grass and drought-resistant trees like isoberlinia, mitragina and kaya. During the dry season in Nigeria, this area is in a state of sleep since there are no leaves on trees. Fires often occur when the grass gets very dry, and smoke can sometimes be seen rising above forest. This phenomenon prepares land for sowing. The first rains contribute to the growth of leaves and grass, awakening nature. 3. Sudan Savanna This zone is north from the Guinea Savanna. Accordingly, the amount of precipitation is less here (from 500mm to1000mm). The dry season lasts for 6-7 months and the grass is low but dense. It is also home to acacia and thorny bushes that help to feed camels and provide useful leaves for folk medicine. One of the most common plants found here is the baobab. Next to it grows palms of doom and whale; leaves that fall quickly get replaced by fresh greens, which is good food for animals. In this territory, livestock and agriculture develop well. The large pastures are suitable for grazing cattle, goats, sheep, and due to the dry climate there are no tsetse fly. 4. Sahel Savanna Its the most deserted type of vegetation in Nigeria. During the year, a small amount of precipitation falls. The rainy season usually doesnt exceed 3-4 months, as a result there is very little vegetation. Herbs grow to only a small height and you can find species like Leptadenia, Ngibbi, African myrrh and Acacia raddiana. In summary, rains can be considered an integral part of the Nigerian climate; they bring both benefits and challenges to the locals, and it is one force of nature we have very little influence over. We hope that this information was useful to you. Remain in a good mood no matter the weather condition. READ ALSO: Characteristics of rainy season in Nigeria Source: Legit.ng - President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the military and the police to stop reprisal attacks in Plateau state - Unknown gunmen had reportedly killed over 20 persons in state - The president described the attacks as madness taken too far President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the military and the police to put mechanism in place to ensure that there is no reprisal attacks in Plateau state. Vanguard reports that President Buhari who was reacting to the killing of over 20 persons by suspected herdsmen said the madness should not be allowed to continue. READ ALSO: Nigeria road signs and their meanings Legit.ng gathered that a statement signed by Garba Shehu , the senior special assistant to the President on media and publicity on Monday night, October 16, in Abuja, revealed that Buhari said he received with deep sadness and regret, news of the killings of over 20 persons. According to the statement, President Buhari believes that this madness has gone too far. He has instructed the military and the police to not only bring the violence to an instant end, but to draw up a plan to ensure that there are no further attacks and reprisal attacks by one group against the other. President Buhari is devoted to the sanctity of Nigerias unity, and he encourages Nigerians of all groups to learn to live together in peace and harmony. "He commiserates with the governor and people of Plateau state, and with those who lost their loved ones, friends and family: May God comfort them as only He can. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had earlier reported that no fewer than 20 persons were killed in a deadly attack in Plateau state. The attack was carried by gunmen in Nkyie Dongwro village. STREET GIST: Signing of 2017 budget in June, same old story? - on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - President of Irigwe development association, Sunday Abdu, says victims killed by suspected herdsmen in Plateau state were lured to a classroom in a public primary school in the village - He questions why such killings took place when representatives of the federal government were in the state - President Buhari directs the military and the police to put mechanism in place to ensure that there is no reprisal attack in Plateau state An indigene of Irigwe chiefdom in Bassa local government area of Plateau state has alleged that men dressed in military uniform were culpable in an attack by suspected herdsmen on the community which led to the death of about 29 persons mainly women and children. READ ALSO: IPOB threatens to carry arms if Kanu is not brought to court President of Irigwe development association, Sunday Abdu, alleged that the men purported to be soldiers lured the victims to a classroom in a public primary school in the village before they were attacked by the suspected herdsmen, Vanguard reports. He claimed the soldiers who lured the victims were members of the Operation Safe Haven, tasked with the responsibility of keeping peace in the area. Abdu said: What happened was annihilation; innocent people killed that way in cold-blood; they just wiped them out. The security men ushered the people into a classroom before the attack in the village. They later ran away and left the victims to be massacred by the assailants. How can you have personnel of the Federal Republic of Nigeria run away and leave the citizens? How and why? That is to tell you that we dont have security, it is a simple as that. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app Twenty-seven people have been confirmed killed, but someone told us that two more bodies have been discovered. I have not confirmed that yet." However Legit.ng was unable to independently verify Sunday Abdus allegations against the military. It is also noteworthy to state that security agencies have in time past arrested bandits dressed in military camouflage. Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the military and the police to put mechanism in place to ensure that there is no reprisal attacks in Plateau state. Vanguard reports that President Buhari who was reacting to the killing of over 20 persons by suspected herdsmen said the madness should not be allowed to continue. Legit.ng gathered that a statement signed by Garba Shehu , the senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity on Monday night, October 16, in Abuja, revealed that Buhari said he received with deep sadness and regret, news of the killings of over 20 persons. Southern Kaduna killings: part 1 on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - The Nigerian army says some repentant insurgents have surrendered for deradicalisation programme in the northeast - The director of the Nigerian army civil-military affairs, Brigadier General Solomon Kumapaye, states that the army ensures that the rights of civilians are respected in military operations - The whereabouts of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, remains unknown as his trial commences The Nigerian army has said it would commence a deradicalisation programme for members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to discourage them from pursuing a secessionist cause. READ ALSO: IPOB threatens to carry arms if Kanu is not brought to court This was disclosed by the director of the Nigerian army civil-military affairs, Brigadier General Solomon Kumapaye in Abuja on Monday, October 16, during a visit to the director general of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Dr. Garba Abari, the Sun reports. Kumapaye said some repentant insurgents had surrendered for deradicalisation programme in the northeast. He stated the deradicalisation and counter-narrative initiative of the Nigerian army had recorded much success in the northeast. Kumapaye stated that the army ensured that the rights of civilians are respected in military operations. He said the army had secured the toll-free Short Code: 193 with which the public can now reach it, using any mobile network. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app The director stated that complaints on the conduct of its personnel to emergency concerns will be treated with prompt response by his command. Meanwhile, the planned deradicalisation of IPOB members is coming on the heels of the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the group. Kanu is billed to appear before Justice Binta Nyako on Tuesday, October 17, to be re-arraigned on an amended five count charge of treason alongside three other pro-Biafra agitators. But the whereabouts of the IPOB leader has remained unknown. Legit.ng notes that the IPOB leader has not been seen in public since the invasion of his Abia country home, by troops of the Nigerian army. Nnamdi Kanu and Biafra agitation... the journey so far! on Legit.ng TV Source: Legit.ng - Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the former minister of finance, has disclosed how President Buhari can effectively fight corruption in Nigeria - Okonjo-Iweala explained that Buhari can fight the corruption with the establishment of strong institutions - She maintained that if the institutions are not there or they are very weak then the incentive to be corrupt is stronger Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the former minister of finance, said President Muhammadu Buhari can fight corruption through strengthening institutions and incentives which could help shape the behaviour of people. Okonjo-Iweala made this known during a panel discussion tagged, ''Fighting corruption'' at the World Bank/IMF headquarters in Washington DC, United States of America (USA). Reports have it that she noted that the introduction of technologies in the financial administration would help checkmate corrupt practices. READ ALSO: Security men culpable in Plateau attack - Survivor alleges According to her, In terms of the fight against corruption, incentives and institutions matter. My experience has been that people in one place are no more corrupt than the other; but if the institutions are not there or they are very weak, then the incentive to be corrupt is stronger. So, if you have a financial management system that is still cash-based, you open the door for people to manipulate or be able to intrude into the system. If you can introduce more technology, if you can have systems and processes that guide government, if you can make e-procurement, the more of that you can build institutionally, and strengthen the institutions and then have the institutions of the rule of law alongside that, I think the more you will be able to fight corruption. We really need a systematic plan about fighting corruption. She said: ''The bid stories about scandals about corruption are really what people want to read. But actually, fighting corruption and putting those systems in place are very unsexy; it takes time. ''It took us 10 years to try and build the government integrated financial management system in Nigeria, to get way from cash-based transactions. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app When you say the government integrated financial management system, it is so boring; nobody wants to hear. But that is what needs to be done. So, that is my one mantra. I think it is all about strengthening institutions. Now, coming to the private sector; yes, the private sector is part of the problem; there is no doubt about it. The world economic forum estimated that bribery adds about 10 per cent to the cost of doing business. So, they are undoubtedly part of it. ''But I also want to say that the private sector is beginning to see that they are part of the solution, and that the world has changed. There are responsible private sector people and organisations that want to be part of the solution and part of that change. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that Yemi Osinbajo, the vice president, stated that corruption still exists in the country because the church had failed to speak out against it. The EFCC stage a walk against corruption - on Legit.ng TV: Source: Legit.ng